Wikivoyage enwikivoyage https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Main_Page MediaWiki 1.45.0-wmf.9 first-letter Media Special Talk User User talk Wikivoyage Wikivoyage talk File File talk MediaWiki MediaWiki talk Template Template talk Help Help talk Category Category talk TimedText TimedText talk Module Module talk 0 535 5091171 4516035 2025-07-11T03:00:43Z DaGizza 162256 /* Cities */ 5091171 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Alba County Wikivoyage Banner.jpg|caption= Ampoiţa}} '''Alba County''' is in [[Transylvania]] in [[Romania]]. ==Cities== {{mapframe}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Abrud]]|wikidata=Q331577}} — its Roman Catholic Church (14th-18th centuries) has murals dating from the 14th and 15th centuries * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Alba Iulia]]|wikidata=Q174665}} — Alba Carolina Fortress is a massive baroque fortification built in the 18th century, one of the largest of this kind in Eastern Europe * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Aiud]]|wikidata=Q411080}} — an important tourism centre for agrotourism, ecotourism and cultural tourism * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Arieșeni]]|wikidata=Q1820095}} — a mountain trekking where you can visit waterfalls, peaks and lots of caves * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Baia de Arieș]]|wikidata=Q775799}} — home to the Muncel Monastery, a place of pilgrimage where on the second Sunday after Pentecost * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Blaj]]|wikidata=Q624236}} — the castle of the Bethlen dynasty is a popular tourist site near Blaj * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Câlnic]]|wikidata=Q510532}} — home to the well-preserved Câlnic Citadel, a World Heritage Site, first mentioned in 1269 * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Câmpeni]]|wikidata=Q855187}} — known for the beauty of its landscape * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cugir]]|wikidata=Q221214}} — a heavy industrialised town who products include products components and firearms * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ocna Mureș]]|wikidata=Q837152}} — known for its salt mines and for the ruins of the medieval castle from 1290, Novum Castrum ("Teleki Castle") * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Rimetea]]|wikidata=Q935515}} — designated as a protected architectural and urban area because of its preservation of houses built in the 17th-18th centuries * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Roșia Montană]]|wikidata=Q12148992}} — gold mining started during the Roman era, and finally ended in 2006 * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sebeș]]|wikidata=Q732376}} — it's an Evangelical-Lutheran Church was rebuilt in Gothic style in the 15th century, and later renovated in the Renaissance style * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Teiuș]]|wikidata=Q946893}} — has several old churches * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Zlatna]]|wikidata=Q207196}} — three nature reserves on the territory of the city have a special value for tourism ==Other destinations== ==Understand== The Apuseni Mountains are in the northwest; the northeastern side of the Parâng group - the Șureanu and Cindrel Mountains - are in the south. In the east there is the Transylvanian Plateau with deep but wide valleys. The three main elements are separated by the Mureș River valley. ==Get in== ===By car=== Two important European national roads pass through Alba County: * E81 (DN 1), which connects the south of Romania and the northwest of the country, and * E68 (DN 7), which ensures the transit between the south and the west of Transylvania. Two highways also pass through Alba county: * A1, which enters the county in the area of Cunța locality and leaves the county in the area of Șibot locality, and * A10, which intersects with A1 in the area of Sebeș municipality. ===By train=== The railway lines that cross Alba County are: * Alba Iulia – Târgu Mureș railway line * Alba Iulia – Zlatna railway line (a branch line) * Arad – Alba Iulia railway line * Sibiu – Vințu de Jos railway line * Șibot – Cugir (a branch line) * Teiuș – Brașov railway line * Războieni - Târgu Mureș - Deda ==Get around== ==See== The main tourist attractions in the county are: * {{marker| name=Scărișoara Glacier Cave | alt=Peștera Ghețatul de la Scărișoara | lat=46.489793 | long=22.810939 }} * {{marker| name=Trascău Citadel | alt=Cetatea Trascăului | lat=46.424922 | long=23.544417}} * {{marker| name=Râmeț Monastery | alt=Mănăstirea Râmeț | lat=46.301111 | long=23.521667}} * {{marker| name=Dacian fortress of Căpâlna | alt=Cetatea dacică de la Căpâlna | lat=45.822257 | long=23.60347 }} * The city of Alba Iulia * The Apuseni Mountains * Scărișoara karst complex — Bihor Mountains 2-3 hours from Garda de Sus * Maidens' Fair on the Găina Mountain — which takes place on July 20 (St. Elijah) on Mount Găina (1484 m) 8 km southwest of Avram Iancu * The Dealul cu melci ("Snail Hill") west of Vidra * Barren Detunata and Shaggy Detunata (Detunatele) * The Câlnic Citadel and the castle of Gârbova * The towns and churches of Sebeș and Aiud * The Ocna Mureș resort * The Țara Moților ethnographical area. Situated in the Apuseni Mountains, Țara Moților is a region with strong and distinct Romanian traditions. * Roșia Montană Mining Cultural Landscape - Mining began 2000 years ago on Mt. Kirnik, with well-preserved Roman galleries. A Canadian company attempted an open-pit mine, but abandoned the project around 2007. Roșia Montană is a famous locality among mineral collectors for fine native gold specimens. ==Do== * On the narrow railway between Abrud-Vidolm there is a mountain train, "Mocănița", with stops at Abrud, Roșia Montană (Gura Roșiei), Câmpeni, Bistra, Lupșa, Baia de Arieș, Brăzești, Sălciua, Ocoliș, Vidolm (declared historical monument). ===Ski=== * {{do | name=Domeniul Schiabil Șureanu | alt= | url=https://sureanu.com/ | email= | address= | lat=45.566724 | long=23.509337 | directions=drive Sebeș -> Șugag -> Oașa Lake -> Luncile Prigoanei -> Poarta Raiului | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Ski resort in the Șureanu mountains. }} ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=Conacul Secuiesc | alt=Székelykő Kúria | url=https://conaculsecuiesc.ro/en/ | email=office@conaculsecuiesc.ro | address=Colțești village | lat=46.4242565 | long=23.5642656 | directions= | phone=+40 730 210 768 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-03-24 | content=Great home made food in a wonderful setting, with a view of the mountains. }} ==Drink== ==Stay safe== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Transylvania}} {{outlineregion}} {{geo|46.1333|23.5333|zoom=8}} i2n93na975rm7e9bdalny1admysipn3 0 622 5091119 5071329 2025-07-11T01:14:15Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Museums */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091119 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Alexandria harbor banner.jpg|unesco=yes|dotm=yes}} {{otheruses}} '''Alexandria''' (pronounced ''al-ig-ZAN-dree-uh&#x202f;''; [[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]: <span lang="ar">الإسكندرية &lrm;/ اسكندرية</span> ''al-Iskandariyya / Eskendereyya&#x202f;'') is [[Egypt]]'s second largest city (5.2 million people in 2018), its largest seaport, and the country's window onto the Mediterranean Sea. The city is a faded shadow of its former glorious cosmopolitan self, but still worth a visit for its many cultural attractions and still-palpable glimpses of its past. == Understand == === History === [[File:Alexandria Corniche (2346973947).jpg|thumb|Corniche, the waterfront]] [[File:Lighthouse - Thiersch.png|thumb|The lighthouse may have looked like this]] Few cities of the world have a history as rich as that of Alexandria; few cities have witnessed so many historic events and legends. Founded by [[Alexander the Great]] (''Iskander al-Akbar'') in 331 BCE, Alexandria became the capital of Greco-[[Roman Empire|Roman]] Egypt; its status as a beacon of culture is symbolized by Pharos, the legendary lighthouse. There had long been a fishing village here, called Rhakotis, but Alexander had greater plans for it. Its strategic value was obvious: it had a great natural harbour, a backing lagoon to prevent land attack, a fertile hinterland, and potential control of trade routes up the Nile and overland to the Red Sea and Arabia. But the approach to the harbour was tricky: the coastline and off-shore islands were low and without landmarks, so sailors could easily take the wrong channel and get wrecked on the shoals. To guide them in, [[On the trail of Alexander the Great#After Alexander|Alexander's successors Ptolemy I & II]] built a '''lighthouse''' on the nearby island of Pharos. It stood just over 100 m tall, so only the Great Pyramids were taller. A bronze mirror atop it reflected sunlight by day, and by night the flames of oil-soaked sheep fleeces. It was one of the [[Seven Wonders of the Ancient World]], and the name of the island "Pharos" came to apply to all subsequent lighthouses, and spawned modern words such as "phares" in French. A jetty over 1 km long was built to connect Pharos to the mainland, dividing the bay into an eastern and western harbour. Silt and landfill built up along the jetty so it broadened into a peninsula, the present-day district of Anfushi. The lighthouse was badly damaged by earthquakes in 956, 1303 and 1323, then fell into disuse and disrepair. In 1480 Sultan Qaitbey used the ruined stone to build his fortress here. The rest of it was eaten by coastal erosion, and came to lie on the sea-bed. But a combination of ancient descriptions, modern marine archaeology and satellite imaging give us a detailed picture of it. Alexandria under Ptolemy I & II prospered not just through trading, but as a knowledge economy. They set out to acquire and understand every manuscript they could. Arriving ships were searched, and any manuscripts seized and copied onto papyrus. In the great '''Library of Alexandria''' texts were translated, catalogued and studied. Scholars, philosophers and scientists flocked to work on these texts, and to create new material. Just one example of their creative output was the ''Septuagint'', the first Greek translation of Hebrew holy texts that became the Christian Bible Old Testament. Trade and knowledge made Alexandria cosmopolitan, with the largest Jewish populations and Hellenistic cultures anywhere. It retained its importance, and was capital of Egypt, while power was shifting elsewhere: the rise and decline of Rome, the rise of Byzantium, and growth of Persia. But the city suffered natural disasters (eg the tsunami of 365 CE) and a series of wars (particularly against Rome), and the library was destroyed. When the Arabs conquered Egypt in 641 CE they founded a new capital to the south in Fustat, now [[Cairo]]. Politically, economically and intellectually, Alexandria was no longer the place to be. Alexandria survived as a trading port; [[On the trail of Marco Polo|Marco Polo]] described it around 1300 as one of the world's two busiest ports, along with [[Quanzhou]]. However, its strategic location meant that every army on its way to Egypt passed through: Napoleon's troops stormed the city in 1798, but the British conquered it in the '''Siege of Alexandria''' in 1801. The Egyptians under Mohammed Ali took control of the city and rebuilt it, but the Orabi Rebellion in 1881 and massacres of Europeans in the city led the British to strike back and hammer the rebels with the three-day '''Bombardment of Alexandria''', reducing much of the city center to rubble. Once again, Alexandria rose from the ashes. Its cosmopolitan and decadent lifestyle before and during World War II gave birth to its greatest poet, '''Constantine P. Cavafy''', and was chronicled in Laurence Durrell's ''Alexandria Quartet'' and a series of works by E.M. Forster including ''Alexandria: A History and Guide'' (1922), described by some as the best travel guide ever written. Yet this world, too, took a shattering blow in the 1950s when Egypt's new fiercely nationalist leader Gamal Abdel Nasser nationalized vast swathes of the economy and forbade foreigners from owning or running companies. This forced tens of thousands of foreigners out of the country, including virtually all of Alexandria's once 150,000-strong Greek community. Alexandria thus ceased to be a cosmopolitan city. Today's Alexandria is a dusty seaside Egyptian town with miles of tatty low-rise and 'burbs holding its population of 5 million, yet its status as Egypt's leading port keeps business humming, and tourists still flock to the beaches in the summertime. And while much of the city is badly in need of major repair, its history is still evident: the French-style parks and the occasional French street sign survive as a legacy of Napoleon, and the few remaining Greek restaurants and cafés still do a good trade. === Climate === {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = 18.4 | febhigh = 19.3 | marhigh = 20.9 | aprhigh = 24 | mayhigh = 26.5 | junhigh = 28.6 | julhigh = 29.7 | aughigh = 30.4 | sephigh = 29.6 | octhigh = 27.6 | novhigh = 24.1 | dechigh = 20.1 | janlow = 9.1 | feblow = 9.3 | marlow = 10.8 | aprlow = 13.4 | maylow = 16.6 | junlow = 20.3 | jullow = 22.8 | auglow = 23.1 | seplow = 21.3 | octlow = 17.8 | novlow = 14.3 | declow = 10.6 | janprecip = 52.8 | febprecip = 29.2 | marprecip = 14.3 | aprprecip = 3.6 | mayprecip = 1.3 | junprecip = 0.01 | julprecip = 0.03 | augprecip = 0.1 | sepprecip = 0.8 | octprecip = 9.4 | novprecip = 31.7 | decprecip = 52.7 | description = Source: [http://www.worldweather.org/059/c01268.htm World Meteorological Organization] }} : ''See also: [[Egypt#Climate]]'' Alexandria has a hot desert climate (BWh), but highly influenced by sea breeze, with sunny hot humid summers and mild moderately wet winters. The daytime can be humid in summer, with summer temperatures averaging 31&nbsp;°C (88&nbsp;°F), but evenings are usually cooler and breezy, especially by the Corniche. Winters can get cold, with daytime highs down sometimes to 12&nbsp;°C (53&nbsp;°F), with occasional rain and sometimes hail. Humidity is high throughout the year. The best time to visit Alexandria is in spring (March–June) and autumn (September–November). It's at its busiest in summer, when Egyptians flock down to escape the searing heat of Cairo. {| class="wikitable" style="font-size:smaller; width:70%;" |+[http://www.weather2travel.com/climate-guides/egypt/alexandria.php Alexandria mean sea temperature]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} |- !Jan !Feb !Mar !Apr !May !Jun !Jul !Aug !Sep !Oct !Nov !Dec |- |18°C (64°F) |17°C (63°F) |17°C (63°F) |18°C (64°F) |20°C (68°F) |23°C (73°F) |25°C (77°F) |26°C (79°F) |26°C (79°F) |25°C (77°F) |22°C (72°F) |20°C (68°F) |} === Orientation === Alexandria is a long thin city, pinched between the swampy delta and the sea. Its east-west artery, the Corniche, rolls on for about 30 km. However the advantage to the visitor is that all transport is funnelled along this corridor, so you shouldn't wait more than a minute for a taxi, buses or microbus going your way. The tram line runs parallel a block or two further inland. At the western tip lies the Citadel of Qaitbey, built near (and from) the ruined ancient lighthouse or Pharos. The Corniche then sweeps around the eastern harbour, with Anfushi the tongue of land behind it, to the central hotel area around Saad Zaghloul; then passes the east end of the harbour at the jetty opposite the new library. Almost all the sights, and the bulk of the accommodation and restaurants, are along this congested 5-6 km strip or nearby. But on and on eastwards rolls the Corniche through rundown beachfront districts of Rushdy, San Stefano and Mandarah. The blingy hotels of Montazah are a bright spot then the tat, burbs and ribbon-development resume, out to Aboukir. === Tourist offices === * {{listing | name=Egyptian Tourist Authority }} ** {{listing | address=Raml Station, Saad Zaghlui Squ | phone=+20 3 485 1556 }} ** {{listing | address=Nuza Airport | phone=+20 3 4250 526, +20 3 4250 527 }} ** {{listing | address=Borg El Arab Airport | phone=+20 3 4485119 }} ** {{listing | address=Marine Passenger Station | phone=+20 3 4803494 }} ** {{listing | address=Misr Railway Station | phone=+20 3 3925985 }} ** {{listing | address=Sidi Gaber Railway Station | phone=+20 3 4263953 }} == Get in == [[File:Alexandrie Théâtre romain 2.jpg|thumb|Roman Theatre next to Misr railway station]] === By plane === Alexandria has domestic flights daily from Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh, with Egyptair the main operator. Saudia Airlines fly from Jeddah and the Gulf States, and Turkish Airlines fly from Istanbul. Flights from Italy by Wizz Air have ended as of June 2023. And all of airlines of the country including: Air Cairo Air Arabia Nile Air FlyEgypt and Petroleum air services (PAS). {{go | name=Borg el Arab Airport | alt={{IATA|HBE}} | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.917778 | long=29.696389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Borg El Arab Airport | image=Borg El Arab Airport Departure Hall.jpg | wikidata=Q1194015 | lastedit=2021-10-26 | content=All flights into Alexandria use this airport 45 km southwest of downtown. It's small but modern, ample for the low passenger numbers it now handles. Cafe and clean toilets and that's about all. There is no public transport - a taxi downtown will take 60-90 min, and reckon at least {{EGP|400}} as they've no competition. }} '''El Nouzha''' airport was nearer the city but closed in 2011, supposedly for rebuilding with Borg el Arab just a temporary arrangement. The work was abandoned and there are no plans to re-open El Nouzha. '''[[Cairo]]''' ({{IATA|CAI}}) is the main portal of entry into Egypt and you travel onwards overland. The Cairo-Alex flight only makes sense as a connection with another flight. === By train === Train is the best way to travel between central [[Cairo]] and Alexandria, with 30 services a day. Best of these are the "Specials", running non-stop and taking 2 hr 40 min; almost as good are the "Express" services taking around 3 hours (usually stopping only in [[Tanta]] on the way). These trains are clean and comfortable, air-conditioned, and with snacks available. One-way AC2 tickets cost 35USD (+ 1USD if you pay by credit card) for foreigners (June 2025). The fast trains are sometimes also called Spanish, French or Turbo because of their rolling stock. See "[[Egypt#get around]] by train" for how to buy tickets. Online, in advance, direct from the railway company ENR, is best. Trains from Cairo all depart from [[Cairo/Midan Ramses|Ramses Station]]. In Alexandria they arrive downtown at {{marker | name=Misr station | type=go | wikidata=Q958574}}, where taxis and microbuses are waiting, or a 15-min stroll north along Nabi Daniel St brings you onto the Corniche. Nabi Daniel is a street market and closed to traffic, so taxis use the parallel Saad Zaghlool St. But when your "non-stop" train arrives, and everyone piles out, ask around before following. You may have stopped 3 km east at {{marker | name=Sidi Gaber station | type=go | wikidata=Q249897 }} on Abu Qir St at the top of Mushir Ahmad Ismail St. Only get off here if you're heading for an eastern district such as San Stefano. Otherwise sit tight, and in a couple of minutes the train will rumble on and terminate at Misr Station. Trains to Alexandria also run from [[Marsa Matruh]] and the delta towns. These are "ordinary" trains that can't be booked online, so buy your ticket at the station. Some trains run directly from Luxor via Cairo, but these too are slow "ordinary" trains, and you're better taking fast trains and changing in Cairo. === By bus === Several bus companies offer a bus service into Alexandria at a very low price range: {{EGP|20-35}}. Buses are air-conditioned and come complete with a hostess trolley service. Companies include Golden Arrow, West Delta, Super Jet, Pullman and El Gouna. Operating times vary from one company to another, but there are trips between Cairo and Alexandria virtually every hour from early morning until midnight. While the buses are perfectly comfortable, the duration of your journey from Cairo to Alexandria (and vice versa) will depend on your pick-up/drop-off point. Most buses start out from the Almaza Bus Station in [[Cairo/Heliopolis|Heliopolis]] and stop by [[Cairo/Midan Tahrir|Midan Tahrir]] and [[Cairo/Giza|Giza]] before finally setting out to Alexandria; if you join from Heliopolis expect a 4-5 hour trip rather than the average 2-3. The main bus station is {{marker | type=go | name=Moharam Bek | lat=31.177703 | long=29.916048 }} but there are a number of bus pick-up/drop-off points inside Alexandria. These are usually either at ''Gedid'' station (except ''El Gouna'', which uses ''Sidi Gaber'' station) which is a bit far from the city of Alexandria so it shouldn't cost more than a {{EGP|10}} cab ride, {{EGP|15}} max. Don't take a taxi with anyone that approaches you right outside of the bus. Walk outside the station and catch a taxi there if you must. There is also a bus from ''Gedid'' to ''Sidi Gaber'', and from ''Sidi Gaber'' most parts of the city are accessible by minibus or tram if you are looking to save money. The bus fare will run you half a pound. === By car === [[File:GD-EG-BibAlex-Ext depuis parvis.JPG|thumb|Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the new library]] There are two roads between Cairo and Alexandria, both taking 3 hours. The usual cautions for driving in Egypt apply; see [[Egypt#By car]]. * '''Agriculture Road''' has a speed limit of 90 km/hr for private cars and has 4 lanes in each direction. This is the main road, so it can get a little crowded. It also gives access to Damnhour and [[Tanta]]. * '''Desert Road''' has a speed limit of 100 km/hr for private cars and has 4 lanes in each direction. True to the name, this crosses the desert and is less crowded and faster. There are cafes every few km. === By boat === Alex remains a major sea port, but all international passenger services are axed because of this region's turmoil and loss of tourist traffic. It may still be possible to arrange [[freighter travel]], but with so many migrants trying to reach Europe from the Middle East by sea in the 21st century, they will be very wary about taking you. So your best bet may be to call in a favour from a friend with a gin-palace private yacht. The Med cruise liners seldom visit here nowadays. Nile cruises still call at Alexandria, Cairo and the ancient Egyptian sites up to Luxor and Aswan. But all of these are package tourist itineraries, and not available to book as point-to-point ferries. == Get around == {{mapframe | 31.220 | 29.940 | height=550 | width=700 | zoom=12 }} Alexandria is a long, ''long'' city but there's good transport along the Corniche. It also extends several km inland past the lagoons, but you've no reason to go that way. === By taxi === [[File:Alexandria - 20080720e.jpg|thumb|Alexandria taxis]] Alexandria's yellow and black taxis are a good way to travel in the city, and a cheap one as well. Be careful though: taxis will uniformly refuse to use meters (the rates haven't been adjusted in years) and drivers love to take advantage of non-Alexandrians (both foreign and Egyptian), so it's best to agree on the fare before you get in. No taxi ride between any two points in the city should cost more than {{EGP|25}}. If you are on a day trip to Alexandria, hire a taxi outside the railway station for the day and pay {{EGP|10-15}} per place. For example, pay around {{EGP|50-60}} if you plan to see 5 places in 3–4 hr, or {{EGP|80-100}} if you plan to see 8-10 places in 5–6 hr. To get into a taxi, wave at the driver and yell the name of your destination. If the driver agrees they would park at the side of the road as soon as possible. Some taxis will stop to pick you up even if they already have a passenger, but such offers are best refused. Furthermore, always check back once you get out of the taxi, there is no number to call if you lose anything of value, and nearly no chances of having it returned. '''Fast Call''' taxis can be booked by phone at 19559 or 0800-999-9999 (toll free). These are pricier but generally much better than ordinary black and bright yellow cabs. '''Careem''' and '''Uber''' operate in Alexandria. You will need a local number, as the driver will call you back for details of the pickup and drop off points. === By tram === [[File:Egypt.Alexandria.Tram.01.jpg|thumb|City Line yellow tram]] Alexandria has a creaky, slow but very cheap '''tram''' system that dates back to 1860 and looks the part — it's the oldest one still running in Africa. The route map is remarkably confusing and changes on a regular basis, but one factor stays constant: the network is split into the interurban '''Ramleh Lines''' (''Tram el-Raml''), which use '''blue-and-cream trams''' and run across the city a few blocks back from the sea towards the eastern suburbs, and the '''City Lines''' (''Tram el-Madina''), which use '''bright yellow trams''' and run west and south of central Alex. The two meet at '''Raml Station''' (محطة الرمل ''Mahattat el-Raml''), right at the heart of Alex. In general, the Ramleh Lines are relatively quick despite their age, as they have substantial stretches of dedicated and uninterrupted right-of-way; the City Lines, however, frequently get stuck in traffic. For both lines, the flat fare is {{EGP|1}}, bought on board. Note that the first car (out of three) in the blue trams is reserved for women only. The lines run until 1AM, every 10-30 min or so. Probably the most useful service for tourists is yellow tram #25, which runs from Raml Station to Ras el-Tin and Fort Qait Bey. You can also hop on any blue tram ''west'' from Sidr Gabr bus/railway station to get to Raml, but not all eastbound trams stop there. === By bus === There are a variety of local bus services which have improved significantly in the past few years, but they are rather confusing for those who haven't lived in Alexandria for a while. Apart from city buses, you will also find "mini-buses", which work on hop-and-go basis. They are easily recognizable 14-person buses, which will stop when you wave and stop where you need to get off. The drivers rarely speak English, so make sure you know the Arabic name of your destination or that you already know where to stop. The routes are usually along the main streets, with drivers following well-known routes. The routes are written in Arabic on the sides of the vehicle, but even if you speak Arabic this may not be helpful; the drivers sometimes change routes without changing their signage. However, if you remain in Alexandria for some time you may learn the somewhat elaborate system of hand signals the locals have devised to indicate the desired destination. A journey will generally cost between {{EGP|0.50-1.50}}. == See == === Historical monuments === [[File:Qaitbay 0005.JPG|thumb|Qaitbay's Citadel]] * {{see | name=Citadel of Qaitbay | alt= | url=https://egymonuments.gov.eg/en/monuments/qaitbay-fort | email= | address=Ras el-Tin | lat=31.213 | long=29.8852 | directions=yellow tram or microbus to Anfushi | phone=+20 3-4809144 | tollfree= | hours=9:00-20:00 | price=Citadel {{EGP|150}} for foreigners and {{EGP|60}} for Egyptians and Arabs | wikidata=Q1938065 | lastedit=2024-10-28 | content=Set on the tip of the Anfushi/Pharos promontory, looking back over the eastern harbour and downtown Corniche. It was built by Mameluke Sultan Abdul-Nasser Qa'it Bay in 1477 CE, by re-cycling the stone of the ruined lighthouse. It tried (with limited success) to defend the city against invaders, from crusaders to Napoleon, and was in military use as late as 1882, when the British bombarded it. There are two entrances and admissions. West, facing your approach along the Harbour mall, is the ground-floor Maritime Museum - this is of little interest. (Its collection continues in a building on the mall.) Come round to the south flank facing the Corniche for the main entrance into the Citadel. There's a fortified courtyard, then a 4-storey bastion. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Mostafa Kamel Necropolis | alt=Mustafa Kamel Cemetery/Tombs | url= | email= | address= | lat=31.23087 | long=29.9472 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Adult {{EGP|40}}, conc {{EGP|20}} | wikidata=Q6862876 | lastedit=2019-01-02 | content=The cemetery includes four tombs dating from the 2nd century BC, all of which are in excellent condition and beautifully decorated. The cemetery bears the name of Mostafa Kamel, one of 20th century Egyptian politics' greatest legends. It was he who pronounced the famous phrase: "If I were not born an Egyptian, I would like to be an Egyptian.". }} [[File:113KOM EL SHOQAFA CATACOMBS.jpg|thumb|Kom el-Shouqafa Catacombs]] * {{see | name=Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa | alt= | url=https://egymonuments.com/locations/details/KomelShoqafaCatacombs | email= | address=Carmouz district, south of Anfushi | lat=31.186944 | long=29.904722 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9:00-16:00 | price={{EGP|150}} for foreigners and {{EGP|30}} for Egyptians | wikidata=Q2671839 | lastedit=2024-10-28 | content=These catacombs were probably carved out to be a single wealthy family's mausoleum, and later expanded to take other elite funerals, from the 2nd to 4th century CE. The name "Kom el-Shoqafa" means "mound of shards" as people brought offerings to the dead here in earthenware bowls, then smashed the empties before returning home. They are composed of a ground level construction that probably served as a funerary chapel, a deep spiral stairway and three underground levels (the lowest now flooded by groundwater) for the funeral rituals and entombment. The place was discovered in 1900 when the ground gave way under a donkey. Built as a separate (and older) catacomb, the '''Hall of Caracalla''' became linked when energetic tomb-robbers tunnelled through. It seems to have been a burial place for the Roman emperor's horses, as horse bones predominate. No, not the donkey's. The catacombs are interesting for their plan and for their decoration, as the last of the pharonic burials transitioned into Grecian and Roman styles. But if you've seen the richly decorated burial chambers around Luxor, this one will suffer by comparison. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Pompey's Pillar | url= | email= | address=Karmouz | lat=31.182494 | long=29.896453 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price={{EGP|150}}, students {{EGP|75}} | wikipedia=Pompey's Pillar (column) | wikidata=Q492487 | lastedit=2024-08-02 | content=An ancient monument, this 25-meter-high granite column was constructed in honor of the Emperor Diocletian in AD 297. The confined area where the column stands also has other ruins and sculptures such as the Serapium oracle. Also beside this area is a very big shopping center for cloth and furniture called "El-Saa3a," where you can find many types of cloth or clothes. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Kom el-Dikka | alt=Roman amphitheatre | lat=31.1946116 | long=29.9040967 | directions=just north of the railway station | phone=+20 3-3902904 | hours=Daily | price={{EGP|150}} for foreigners | wikidata=Q12236559 | lastedit=2024-10-27 | content="Kom el-Dikka" means "pile of rubble" - so much for the grandeur of the Roman Empire. In Ptolemaic times this area was the Park of Pan, a pleasure garden surrounded by villas and baths. Highlights built in the 2nd century CE are the Villa of the Birds, with fine mosaics, and Egypt's only Roman amphitheatre. This has 13 semicircular tiers made of white and grey marble, with seats for up to 800 spectators, galleries and sections of mosaic-flooring. Excavations continue, and in 2010 a Ptolemaic temple was unearthed. You can see the amphitheatre well enough just by peering through the railings, but you'll have to pay to get inside to see the mosaics and other small artefacts. }} [[File:Alexandria Montaza Palace 2005-08-20.jpg|thumb|El Montazah Palace.]] * {{listing | type=see | name=Montaza Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=El Montazah | lat=31.2886 | long=30.0159 | directions= | phone=+20 3-5477153 or +20 3-5473056 | tollfree= | hours= | price={{EGP|25}} | wikidata=Q1350295 | lastedit=2019-03-05 | content=Built in 1892 by Abbas II of Egypt Abbas Hilmi Pasha, the last khedive (Ottoman viceroy) of Egypt. One of the palace buildings, the ''Haramlek'', now contains a casino on the ground floor and a museum of royal relics on the upper levels, while the ''Salamlek'' has been converted into a luxury hotel (see [[#Sleep|Sleep]]). Parts of the extensive gardens (over 80 ha/200 acres) are open to the public. There is an entrance fee for the park. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Alexandria Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial | alt=Ismail Monument | url= | email= | address=Mansheya | lat=31.19996 | long=29.89367 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=AlexUnknownSoldier.jpg | wikidata=Q3013168 | lastedit=2022-04-01 | content=Tomb of the Unknown Soldier honoring its military. Besides its meaning it is a picturesque neoclassical monument worth a photo during the day or when illuminated in the evening. The structure was originally built in 1927 to 1938 as a memorial to Khedive Ismail. After the revolution its dedication was changed. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Ras el-Tin Palace | alt=Presidential Palace | url= | email= | address=Ras el-Tin | lat=31.199194 | long=29.868639 | directions=Just west of Anfushi on promontery | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1893940 | lastedit=2018-01-31 | content=Admire the exterior but it's now part of a naval base and not open to visitors. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Taposiris Magna | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.946167 | long=29.518694 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7684735 | lastedit=2020-08-24 | content=Remains of a city established by Pharaoh Ptolemy II Philadelphus between 280 and 270 BCE, with two monuments that were partly restored in the 1930s. One is a tower that has been used in the reconstruction of the lighthouse of Alexandria and the other is the remains of a temple of Osiris that is also believed to be the last resting place of Mark Antony and Cleopatra. }} === Museums === * {{see | name=Alexandria National Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=110 Tariq el-Horreyya in Latin quarter | lat=31.2011 | long=29.9132 | directions=in Latin Quarter 10 mins walk east off Saad Zaghloul Street | phone=+20 3-4835519 or +20 3-4838035 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-4:30PM | price={{EGP|100}}, students {{EGP|50}} | wikidata=Q201383 | lastedit=2019-01-31 | content=Small but absorbing, well-presented museum with more than 1800 archaeological pieces. The basement is devoted to Prehistoric and Pharonic times, first floor to the Graeco-Roman period, second floor to the Coptic and Islamic era. Especially interesting are artefacts raised during underwater excavations: there's a sense of a new window opening on history. }} * {{see | name=Graeco-Roman Museum | alt= | url=https://egymonuments.com/locations/details/GraecoRomanMuseum | email=graecoromanmuseum@mota.gov.eg | address=Latin quarter | lat=31.1993 | long=29.9069 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9:00-17:00 | price={{EGP|150}} for foreigners and {{EGP|40}} for Arabs and Egyptians | wikidata=Q1546319 | lastedit=2024-10-28 | content=A history museum with a vast collection mostly dating from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century CE, spanning the Ptolemaic and Roman periods. The square in front of it is a popular place for taking marriage pictures and as a hang-out for young people in the evenings. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Fine Arts | alt= | url= | email= | address=Moharram Bey | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+20 3-3936616 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alexandria Museum of Fine Arts | wikidata=Q28162764 | lastedit=2018-01-31 | content=Mostly modern and Orientalist paintings }} * {{see | name=Royal Jewelry Museum | alt= | url=https://egymonuments.gov.eg/en/museums/royal-jewelry-museum | email= | address=Zizenia district | lat=31.2407 | long=29.963 | directions= | phone=+20 3-5828348 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Royal Jewelry Museum | wikidata=Q1323293 | lastedit=2018-01-31 | content=Royal jewelry from the Egyptian monarchy of 1805 to 1952 displayed in the former palace of Princess Fatma Al-Zahra'. }} * {{see | name=Cavafy Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=31.197582 | long=29.90128 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16327758 | lastedit=2022-04-07 | content=Museum in the house of the poet Cavafy (1863–1933) where he spent the last 25 years of his life. Closed as of 02/2024. }} * {{see | name=Arabic Calligraphy Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=31.195118 | long=29.913089 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q63967838 | lastedit=2022-04-07 | content=The museum was inaugurated in 2015. On two levels with three rooms each the museum presents manuscripts, but also paintings, ceramics, sculptures and miniatures with calligraphic scripts. }} === Religious sites === * {{see | name=El-Mursi Abul-Abbas Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anfoushi | lat=31.205609 | long=29.882246 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1323845 | content=Built in 1775 by Algerians, the mosque was built over the tomb of the famous 13th century sufi saint, Ahmed Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi. The walls of the mosque are dressed in artificial stone, while the minaret, on the south side, stands at 73 m. }} * {{see | name=Attarine Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q55604458 | lastedit=2022-01-30 | content=Built as a church dedicated to the Saint Athanasius in 370 AD and was converted into a mosque following the Muslim conquest of Egypt. }} * {{see | name=Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue | alt=معبد إلياهو هانبي اليهودي | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1331109 | lastedit=2024-05-16 | content=There has been a synagogue at this site since 1348, the current Neo-Gothic building has been standing since 1850. The interior can be visited on some weekdays in the morning. }} === Modern Alex === * {{see | name=Bibliotheca Alexandrina | alt=Alexandrina | url=https://www.bibalex.org/ | email= | address=Shatby / Silsia | lat=31.208889 | long=29.909167 | directions=Enter from the small street facing the university | phone=+20 3-4839999 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 9:30-17:00, Sa 10:00-14:00 | price={{EGP|150}} for foreigners and {{EGP|10}} for Egyptians - buy tickets from the office on Dr. Abd Al Hamid Dayed St. facing the university | wikidata=Q501851 | lastedit=2024-10-28 | content=A huge modern library and research centre constructed on the site of the ancient Library of Alexandria. Wonderful display of ancient texts of the Middle East. Includes four museum areas, exhibition space, and a planetarium. Regular tours in English and other languages. The Antiquities Museum costs ({{EGP|100}} extra and is particularly well worth visiting if you're into artefacts from the Pharonic to the Islamic period. }} ==Do== [[File:Alexandria Corniche Beach.JPG|thumb|Beach off the western end of the Corniche]] * '''Sunbathe''' at the Maa'moura Beach or Montazah Beach. During summer the beaches are packed with Egyptian tourists, parasols and plastic chairs and it will cost {{EGP|5}} (2008) to get in. At this time the sand and water may have some throwaway plastic floating around. Some areas charge {{EGP|20}} and it will get you more space. * {{do | name=Double decker bus ride along the Corniche | alt= | url= | email= | address=Al-Anfushi Bus Station | lat=31.208812 | long=29.882288 | directions=At the corner of Al Geish Road and Al Captain Abd Al Qader Koura Street | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price={{EGP|25}} | lastedit=2024-10-28 | content=The Corniche stretches from the Citadel in the west about 30 km along the seaside to the east. Its core is a 15 km promenade along the bay dotted with restaurants, markets and historic sights. Take one of the red double decker buses that start from Al-Anfushi Bus station and enjoy the ride along the promenade. }} * {{do | name=Montazah Royal Gardens | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=31.2845 | long=30.0187 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q12207230 | lastedit=2020-02-19 | content=Though the gardens are a part of the more than three hundred and fifty acre grounds (61 ha) of the large royal home known as the Muntazah Palace, the Montazah Royal Gardens take up more than half of the property. Montazah Royal Gardens are situated along the shore as well, which means access to the lovely beaches and warm Mediterranean Sea waters nearby. The Montazah Royal Gardens are a bit unique where city parks and public spaces are concerned as they are rigorously landscaped, and well-stocked with benches and wading or swimming pools that are open for the public to enjoy. }} *Also in Montazah, Montazah Water Sports, provide various water sports, from waterskiing to wake-boarding, even Banana Boat and Donuts. *Hire a boat and go '''cruising''' at Ras el-Tin. *Have a long '''walk''' by the beautiful Corniche by the Mediterranean Sea. ===Cinemas=== * {{do | name=Renaissance Royal Cinema | alt= | url=https://elcinema.com/theater/3101031/ | email= | address=22E Al Bakht, Al Mesallah Sharq | lat=31.1969 | long=29.9017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33683342 | lastedit=2020-02-19 | content=This movie theater in Alexandria is owned by the same people who run the Renaissance theaters in Cairo. There are three screens, with surround sound and all options. Midnight shows are daily. }} * {{do | name=Cineplex | alt= | url= | email= | address=14th of May Bridge Rd | lat= | long= | directions=by Hilton at Green Plaza, Smouha, see Sleep | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Tickets {{EGP|25}} | lastedit=2021-10-30 | content=10 screens, 3D movies available. }} * {{do | name=Amir | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33683269 | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content= }} ===Sports=== * '''Football:''' Alexandria has two soccer teams in the Premier League, Egypt's top tier. Smouha SC and Al Ittihad are both based at Alexandria Stadium (capacity 20,000), 500 m east of the railway station. Haras El Hodoud are in the Second Division, playing in the western suburb of El Max. Pharco in the Premier League play at Borg el Arab (aka El-Geish) Stadium 25 km west towards the airport. * {{do | name=Alexandria Sporting Club | alt= | url=http://www.alexsportingclub.com/ | email= | address= | lat=31.2133 | long=29.9341 | directions=right in the heart of Alexandria | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4119394 | content=Built in 1898 and used during the British occupation, the Alexandria Sporting Club is one of the oldest sporting clubs in Egypt. Today, the golf course stands on 97 feddans, 97 percent of which constitutes the total club area. It is a flat course with tricky bunkers and can be played by beginners as well as experts. The club also features four restaurants, the Club House Restaurant being the most luxurious, and the Happy Land restaurant serving the children's playground. It also offers party catering. }} * {{do | name=Smouha Sporting Club | alt= | url=https://smouhaclub.com/ | email= | address=Smouha | lat=31.2173 | long=29.9324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3048741 | content=International Hockey Stadium, many swimming pools, a number of soccer fields, two running tracks. Members and guests only. }} * '''Scuba dive''' with [http://www.alexandra-dive.com/ Alexandra Dive]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, based on the Corniche. It's historic wreck-diving, year-round, interesting but distinctly cold and gloomy compared to the Red Sea. The standard one-day, two-dive trip takes you to the "Palace of Cleopatra" immersed off Antirodos Island, and around the old harbour and lighthouse remnants off Pharos point. They also venture out to wrecks from ancient Greece, the Napoleonic era, and the Great War. They offer training courses, but beginners will do much better to train in the Red Sea. (They run trips there but you're probably going anyway.) All these trips depend not only on weather, but on having viable diver numbers. *Go '''swimming''' in the Country Club or Lagoon Resort, in front of Carrefour. ==Learn== === Cultural institutes === * {{listing | name=Goethe-Institut | alt= | url=https://www.goethe.de/ins/eg/de/sta/alx.html | email=Info-Alexandria@goethe.de | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+20 3 4879870 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28146564 | lastedit=2022-04-05 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Institut Français d’Egypte à Alexandrie | alt= | url=https://www.ifegypte.com/alexandrie/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q111495161 | lastedit=2022-04-05 | content=Cultural centre with a media center in a 19th-century palace. Temporary art exhibitions are displayed in the hall at the first floor. The institute offers French language courses. In the institute's courtyard, the French café ''Le Boudoir'' is situated. }} * {{listing | name=Instituto Cervantes Alexandria | alt= | url=https://elcairo.cervantes.es/eg/Alexandria/cervantes_institute_alexandria.htm | email=cenalej@cervantes.es | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q111529747 | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Jesuit Cultural Center of Alexandria | alt= | url=http://jesuitalex.org/ar/home/ | email=info@jesuitalex.org | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q111494882 | lastedit=2022-04-05 | content=Cultural centre founded in 1953. It offers cultural and educational events, concerts, theatre performances, dance and more. Its courtyard contains a sitting area with a small kiosk. }} * {{listing | name=Russian Cultural Center in Alexandria | alt= | url= | email=rcnk-alexandria@list.ru | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q111529272 | lastedit= | content= }} === Language schools === * {{listing | name=Ahlan Egypt - Alexandria | alt= | url=https://www.ahlan-world.org/arabic-schools/alexandria-egypt/ | email=alexandria@ahlan-egypt.com | address=8, El-Ghorfa El-Togareya Street | directions=next to the French Consulate close to Mansheya Square and one street behind the Corniche | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109682351 | lastedit=2022-04-01 | content=Language school with native teachers for Modern Standard Arabic and Egyptian Colloquial Arabic teaching since 2005. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and fewer students than before the pandemic teaching mainly consists of one-to-one lessons as of April 2022. The atmosquere is familial. Quite some information on the website is outdated. Contact is very responsive though. }} * {{listing | name=TAFL Center | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/taflcenter.edu.eg | email=tafl@alexu.edu.eg | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q111381856 | lastedit=2022-04-01 | content=Center for Teaching Modern Standard Arabic and Egyptian Colloquial Arabic of the University of Alexandria with bigger number of students from a lot of foreign universities and higher prices. Apart from the fixed programmes one-to-one lessons can probably be arranged. Online information is scarce, mainly on their Facebook page. }} ==Work== Alexandria has a tiny industrial section, mainly centered around the natural gas industry. A few expatriates work in this section. This section is increasing now as many new factories are built in '''Borg el Arab'''. Other than that, there are some but not many international schools that employ expatriate teachers. Generally they pay less than the much more lucrative educational section in Cairo. Alexandria has got quite a large number of language schools. You can find girls-only, boys-only and mixed schools. Also international certificates -like the IGCSE or the American SAT I and SAT II- could be completed in most of these schools. Moreover, study is available in English, French and also German. == Buy == [[File:Central Alexandria.JPG|thumb|Central Alexandria]] Standard shop hours are daily until 10PM or later, but in summer they take a siesta from noon to 4PM. Ramadan hours also vary. Typically, vendors of a particular product cluster along a street. * '''Nabi Daniel''', the street between the railway station and Corniche, has many booksellers with titles in several languages. Prices negotiable. Further inland has vendors of electrical components (e.g. plug adapters) that may be useful to a traveller. "Nabi" means prophet so the street refers to the Biblical figure. * {{buy | name=Bibliotheca Alexandrina Bookshop | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=within the new library | phone= | tollfree= | hours=daily 9AM to 7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=Good for general and tourist literature in different languages. }} * {{buy | name=Deeb Mall | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Deebmall | email= | address=1 Syria St, Roushdy | lat=31.2281 | long=29.9517 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM-10:30PM | price= | wikidata=Q111597321 | lastedit=2021-10-30 | content=Midrange shopping mall, mostly clothing but with IT section. Plus cinema and food court. }} * {{buy | name=Green Plaza | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/GreenPlazaEG/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=by Hilton Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2021-10-30 | content=Big modern open-air mall with many shops, restaurants, cinema and a court for video games and bowling. }} * {{buy | name=Maamoura Plaza Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Maamoura | lat=31.2868 | long=30.0305 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours | price= | lastedit=2021-10-30 | content=Small mall in the tract east of Montazah, has some restaurants. }} * {{buy | name=San Stefano Grand Plaza Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=By the Four Seasons Hotel, see [[#Sleep]]. Large mall with upscale shopping, 10 cinemas and large food court. }} * {{buy | name=Zahran Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Smouha | lat=31.2121 | long=29.9474 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2021-10-30 | content=Popular mall with cinema and coffee shops. }} * {{buy | name=Carrefour City Center | alt= | url=http://www.citycentrealexandria.com/ | email= | address=Gate 4 - 1st Alexandria Cairo Desert Road | lat=31.168 | long=29.9317 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2021-10-27 | content=If this is "city centre", you'll need camels to reach "edge of town". It's a big mall with huge hypermarket, coffee shops and cinemas. Take a taxi to get here. }} == Eat == * '''Seafood restaurants''' line the waterfront. * '''Alexandrian ice cream''' is similar to the typical soft-serve ice cream, but it is described as being a little bit 'stretchy'. It is available in numerous flavors, and according to the locals, this type of ice cream is only made in Alexandria and Greece. Try it at Bahary near Qait Bey, where popular shops include Makram, El-Sheikh Wafik, Azza and El Se'eedy. * '''Corn on the cob''' (''dorra mashwey'') is sold by street vendors along the Corniche. * '''Koshary''', the Egyptian national dish, is a mixture of noodles, rice, lentil and more noodles topped with a tomato sauce. Koshary topped with ''kibda Iskandarani'' — Alexandria-style fried liver with cumin, onion, and hot peppers — is a local tradition. === Budget === * {{eat | name=Tawn Coffe Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=31.20079 | long=29.89799 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q111521272 | lastedit=2018-01-07 | content=Yes, "Coffe". Great place on the Corniche, with a decent pizza and chairs in front of the café for "enjoying" the traffic and view. }} * {{eat | name=Kushari Bondok | alt= | url= | email= | address=Smouha | lat=31.21248 | long=29.94928 | directions=beside Fathalla supermarket | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-10-27 | content=Well known kushari joint, value for money. }} * {{eat | name=Meto | alt= | url= | email= | address=273 Gamal Abdel Nasser St | lat=31.26459 | long=29.99694 | directions= | phone=+20 3 550 7774 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2021-10-27 | content=Fast food: pizza and its Arabic equivalent ''fateer''. }} * {{eat | name=Asmak Shabaan | alt= | url=https://www.shabanseafood.com/en/home | email= | address=El Hana Tower, Al Max, Corniche | lat=31.1497 | long=29.8415 | directions= | phone=+20 120 424 2551 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24 hrs | price= | lastedit=2021-10-27 | content=Great place for seafood. }} * {{eat | name=Foul Mohamed Ahmed | alt= | url= | email= | address=17 Shakour Street | lat=31.200156 | long=29.900644 | directions=off Saad Zaghloul Street, opposite Metropole Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q110488344 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=Legendary joint for fuul and falafel, clean, friendly and inexpensive. According to a personal memory by an Alexandrian lady it was in Jewish ownership and called Binyamin before the Revolution of 1952. }} * {{eat | name=Mostafa Gad | alt= | url= | email= | address=Al Iskandar Al Akbar Street | directions=just opposite the Raml Station building | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q111379663 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=Takeaway only branch of the Egyptian cuisine fast food chain. }} * {{eat | name=Mostafa Gad | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahmoud Azmy Tousoun Street | directions=close to the Bank of Egypt building | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q111379847 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=Takeaway and eat-in branch of the Egyptian cuisine fast food chain. }} * {{eat | name=Mostafa Gad | alt= | url= | email= | address=El-Horeya Road | directions=opposite Cinema Amir | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q111380155 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=Takeaway only branch of the Egyptian cuisine fast food chain. }} * {{eat | name=Fayrouz | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q111524162 | lastedit=2022-04-07 | content=Fastfood restaurant with Levantine and Egyptian plates. Slightly more expensive than Gad. }} === Mid-range === Mid-priced by Egyptian standards, Western fast-food chains like Pizza Hut, McDonald's and KFC can all be found in the city's larger malls, but there are more interesting options as well. * {{eat | name=Abou Shakra | alt= | url=http://www.aboushakra.net/index.html | email= | address=El Geish 424 | lat=31.25017 | long=29.96994 | directions=Smouha Green Plaza | phone=+20 3 426 1777 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Popular Egyptian chain for shwarms, similar grills and set meals of kebab, kofta, fries and salad. }} * {{eat | name=Hosny | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gamal Abd El-Nasser St | lat=31.2779 | long=30.01 | directions=El Mandara | phone=+20 3 550 6655 | tollfree= | hours=24 hr | price= | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Good fresh Middle Eastern food. }} * {{eat | name=Patisserie Délices | alt= | url= | email= | address=46 Saad Zaghloul | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q110497525 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=It is now part of La Veranda, see below. }} * {{eat | name=L’Apéro Bistrot | alt= | url= | email=bistrotapero@gmail.com | address=30 Al Naby Daniel Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+20-122-507-0555 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q112704275 | lastedit=2024-04-24 | content=Café and restaurant of the French Institute (Institut français) serving alcohol. There is a larger quiet outdoor seating area and a small indoor area. In May 2022, the restaurant reopened under a new name after a change of operator and renovations. }} * {{eat | name=Trianon | alt= | url= | email=info@trianon1905.com | address=54 Saad Zaghloul Street | lat=31.200473 | long=29.900027 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q110497577 | lastedit=2022-03-27 | content=Historic, posh cafe and restaurant in the heart of Alexandria dating back to 1905, this is where the creme de la creme of Alexandrian society like singer Om Kolthoum and Cavafy used to hang around. The glory days are long over, but Trianon remains famous for what is said to be the country's best ''om ali'', a rich Egyptian take on bread pudding. }} * {{eat | name=Chicken Tikka | alt = Tikka Grill | url=https://chicken-restaurant-675.business.site/ | email= | address=11, 26th of July St., Bahary | lat = 31.205378 | long = 29.885047 | directions=Eastern Port, beside Diving Club | phone=+20 3 5832470| tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-2AM | price= | lastedit=2022-01-07 | content=Delicious Egyptian food, with views of the harbour and Fort Qait Bey. Try the shish kebab and the ''wara' el enab'' (stuffed vine leaves). There is a second restaurant of this chain in 426 El-Gaish Rd., Luran. }} * {{eat | name=Balbaa | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/BalbaaVillage | email= | address=4 Al Manteka Al Shamalea, Mustafa Kamel WA Bolkli, Sidi Gaber | lat=31.2262 | long=29.9421 | directions=Sidi Bishr, corner with El Gaish | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-4PM | price= | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Popular place for Egyptian meat and seafood. Their outlet at Carrefour City Center has closed. }} * {{eat | name=Elite | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q111532462 | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content= }} === Splurge === [[File:Alexandria Athineos.JPG|thumb|The entrance of Athineos]] : Many of Alexandria's high-end restaurants are within its hotels. * {{eat | name=Athineos | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/athineos.alex | email= | address=21 Saad Zaghloul Sq | lat=31.202076 | long=29.901191 | directions=on the Corniche | phone=+20 110 285 5557 | tollfree= | hours=24 hrs | price= | wikidata=Q110489249 | lastedit=2021-10-27 | content=The "Mermaid of Alexandria" is a local legend frequented by both Durrell and Cavafy, but alas, it has fallen far since its glory days. The views are still amazing, and the Greek motifs in the gilded friezes and stenciled frescoes give some character, but the food is, despite the Greek names on the menu, almost entirely Arabized: order ''souvlaki'' and you'll get kebab. }} * '''Byblos''' is the swish Middle Eastern restaurant within Four Seasons Hotel, open daily 2 PM to midnight. Stefano's their Italian restaurant is closed in 2021. * {{eat | name=Chez Gaby au Ritrovo | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/moby.food | email= | address=22 El Horreya Rd | lat=31.196641 | long=29.902467 | directions=Near Raml Station | phone=+20 3 487 4404 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 2PM-midnight | price= | wikidata=Q111519456 | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Possibly the best Italian restaurant in town, serving pizza and pasta since 1979. }} * {{eat | name=Ibn El-Balad Gleem | alt= | url=http://thm-group.com/ | email= | address=Mustafa Kamel | lat=31.24179 | long=29.95624 | directions=behind El-Salam Theatre | phone=+20 122 855 5909 | tollfree= | hours=24 hours | price= | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Two-storey restaurant, now part of THM chain. First floor has grilled meats featuring their famous Ibn al-Balad fattah. The second floor serves seafood. Both get great scores for food, service and ambiance. }} * {{eat | name=La Veranda | alt= | url=http://www.delicesgroup.com/ | email= | address=46 Saad Zaghloul. |lat=31.20002 | long=29.89977| directions=inside Patisserie Delices | phone=+20 3-4861432 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-31 | content=Very central downtown, near the Metropole, Cecil and Sofitel hotels. Within, most of the floor space is the cafe-patisserie Jardin Delices. About a quarter is La Veranda restaurant, with good European/East Med cuisine. Serves alcohol. Atmospheric with the old posters, but nowadays not a spy or dilapidated duchess to be found. }} * {{eat | name=Ole Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/OleCafeEgypt | email= | address=Kafr Abdou Street, Roushdy | lat=31.22312 | long=29.9573 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=A reasonably priced restaurant with Spanish cuisine. Try the Beef Madrid. }} * {{eat | name=Ottimo | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kafr Abdou 3 | lat=31.22338 | long=29.9574 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM - 1AM | price= | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Nice restaurant with veranda. }} * {{eat | name=White and Blue restaurant | alt=Greek Club | url= | email= | address=on Harbour Mall near Qaitbey Fortress | lat=31.21227 | long=29.88392 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-31 | content=The Greek Club (ENOA: Ellenika Nautikos Olimnos Alexandria) is a private club but with two public restaurants, and something of an Alex institution. Ride the elevator up to Olive Island Restaurant on the third floor: the place is dark and piled high with old furniture. So ride back down to the second floor which has White and Blue Restaurant out on the terrace, overlooking the eastern harbour. A few civilities like "Kalispera sas" go a long way as they clearly don't speak Greek themselves. Traditional East Med specialities such as kebabs, stews, and lots of fish. Clean, and inexpensive by western standards. }} == Drink == === Cafes === [[File:Stanley Bridge in Alexandria.jpg|thumb|Stanley Bridge]] * '''Traditional coffee shops''' or ''ahwa'' serve coffee, tea and ''shisha'' water pipes. Play a little backgammon or dominoes and watch the world pass by. They remain a male bastion. * '''Brazilian Coffee Stores''' are a chain with several city outlets. Western chains such as Starbucks or Costa have only a handful of outlets. The chain's best known branch is the one in Saad Zaghloul Street: ** {{drink | name=Brazilian Coffee Stores | alt= | url= | email= | address=44 Saad Zaghloul St., Raml Station | lat= | long= | directions=next to Délices Patisserie/La Veranda | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 7AM-11PM | price= | wikidata=Q111521717 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Clay Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/claycafe1/ | email= | address=156 Omar Lotfy St | lat=31.2172 | long=29.9303 | directions=near Small Sporting Tram station | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2021-10-30 | content=Coffee and stuff are only just okay for the price, you come for the laidback atmosphere and the wi-fi. }} * {{drink | name=Trianon 1905 | alt= | url=https://trianon1905.business.site/ | email= | address=52 Saad Zaghlul Square | lat=31.200473 | long=29.900027 | directions=Metropole Hotel building, see [[#Sleep]] | phone=+20 128 583 9731 | tollfree= | hours=8AM-midnight | price= | wikidata=Q110497577 | lastedit=2021-10-30 | content=Posh cafe and dessert restaurant, you're paying for the ambiance. }} * {{drink | name=Cafe de la Paix | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/CafeDeLaPaix.Alex | email= | address=202 El Geish, Raml Station | lat=31.20306 | long=29.90237 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours | price= | wikidata=Q111521431 | lastedit=2021-10-30 | content=Relaxing place on the waterfront. }} *{{drink | name=Club21 | alt= | url=https://club-21-restaurant.business.site/ | email= | address=5 Mo'askar Elroumany St, Roushdy | lat=31.22951 | long=29.94869 | directions= | phone=+20 3 523 2929 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM to 1AM | price= | lastedit=2021-10-30 | content=Friendly inexpensive place for food and drink, plus shisha in the garden. }} * {{drink | name=Le Boudoir | alt= | url= | email=boudoir.alexandria@gmail.com | address=30 Al Naby Daniel Street, Al Attarin East | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+20 3 4974151 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q110488923 | lastedit=2022-01-09 | content=Cafe and small restaurant of the Institut français. Large and calm outdoor seating area, small indoor seating area. Entry via the security check of the Institut français. }} * {{drink | name=Lail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM-4AM | price= | wikidata=Q111522326 | lastedit=2022-04-07 | content=Spacious cafe and restaurant on a rooftop offering shishas. }} ===Bars=== Time was, way back, when a maze of bars and nightclubs filled the city. They're now mostly confined to the hotels, with few free-standing bars. Still, enough remain for visitors to get squiffy recalling their days on General Auchinleck's staff, eyes swivelling independently upwards to recreate the effect of an old ceiling fan. * {{drink | name=Spitfire Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Old Borsa Street, Mansheya | lat=31.1981 | long=29.8955 | directions=off Saad Zaghloul Street before Cherry Maryski Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 4PM-midnight | price= | wikidata=Q111522758 | lastedit=2021-10-30 | content=Cheerful bar with food a short block off the main downtown street. "Atmospheric", meaning the building looks derelict, but persevere. }} * {{drink | name=Mermaid Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahatat el Raml | lat=31.20164 | long=29.90045 | directions=near Athineos | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-02-20 | content=Little and nice bar with good view to the sea. Prices on beer are moderate; hard liquor is more expensive. At night the upper floor has a dance floor featuring Western and Arabic music. The bar is frequented by foreign (particularly American) Arabic language students at the Teaching Arabic as a Foreign Language (TAFL) Center at Alexandria University. }} * {{drink | name=Sheikh Ali | alt= | url= | email= | address=Adib Bek Ishak Street off Sa'ad Zaghloul |lat=31.20009 | long=29.89593| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-02-20 | content=Better known among travellers as the Cap d'Or and one of Alexandria's oldest bars. }} * '''Drinkie's''' is a chain of liquor stores with a dozen city branches. The most central branch on Saad Zaghloul Square is open daily noon-2AM. * '''San Giovanni Club''' within that hotel has live music, singers and oriental dancers until late. == Sleep == [[File:Flickr - dlisbona - Mosque in downtown Alex.jpg|thumb|Al Qaaed Ibrahim Basha Mosque on the Corniche]] Accommodation in Alexandria has quite a different feel due to the old buildings with sometimes nice colonial style lobbies. There is a good selection of hotels in all price ranges. === Apartments === For stays of a month or more, consider renting. Apartments are easy to come by, in a range of prices ({{EGP|180-1000}} per week) and states of repair. Landlords/ladies tend to live in the same blocks and will be willing to haggle the rates. It's definitely worth visiting an apartment before placing any money down, preferably in late afternoon so you see how well the lighting works and the worst of any insect problems. (It's very unlikely to find any accommodation near the coast that's completely roach-free!) === Budget === It is mostly not necessary to reserve ahead online, this is in general more expensive. Just check around where many hotels are—there are at least 7 or so near Triomphe Hotel, where you can walk in and ask for a price. One will definitely have the required budget and standard. * {{sleep | name=Ithaka Hostel | wikidata=Q110072751 | alt= | url=https://ithaka-hostel.business.site/ | email= | address= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price={{EGP|230}} without and {{EGP|250}} with sea view and tiny balcony in a dorm. {{EGP|100}} deposit are returned upon checkout | lastedit=2021-12-12 | content=4-dorm hostel just at the sea front with very friendly staff. Not the quietest place. There used to be just one shower for the whole hostel. The installation of a second is planned for December 2021. Shared kitchen and spacious common area, smoking permitted in one half of it. Warm water. Lockable drawers under the beds, locks are provided. Sockets at the beds, but no lamps. Wi-Fi isn't very stable. 24/7 reception, hostel is in the 2nd floor. }} * {{sleep | name=Alexandria Youth Hostel | alt= | url= | email= | address=13 Sharia Port Said | lat=31.21099 | long=29.91667 | directions=1 km east of the Bibliotheca | phone=+20 3 5974559 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price={{EGP|82}} in 4-bed dorm and {{EGP|56}} in a 8-bed dorm, including breakfast | lastedit=2020-12-26 | content=A decent budget option and close to the sea and Bibliotheca Alexandrina. }} * {{sleep | name=Triomphe Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/triomphe.hotel.alexandria | email= | address=26 El Ghorfa El Togaria Street | lat=31.20028 | long=29.89824 | directions= | phone=+20 34807585 | tollfree= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=11:30 | price=Single from {{EGP|150}} | wikidata=Q110285078 | lastedit=2018-01-06 | content=Decent choice with impressive (smoking area) lobby and nice staircase, elevator also available. The rooms are clean. The bathroom is clean and has warm water. WiFi is free. }} * {{sleep | name=Normandy Hotel | alt= | url= | email=elrume4ever5@hotmail.com | address=8 Gamal el-Din Yassen | lat=31.20063 | long=29.89809 | directions=near Raml Station | phone=+20 3-4806830 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single from {{EGP|100}} | wikidata=Q110090554 | lastedit=2018-01 | content=The Normandy hotel is good value for money, but a little run down. It is a one-floor hotel on the Corniche, with unbeatable views of the city's Eastern Harbor. It is the building behind the famous Cecil Hotel, on the fourth floor. The rooms are well-appointed, large and clean, but spare. The bathrooms are down the hall, and also clean. Staff are very friendly, helpful, and honest. The staff speak both English and Arabic, with limited knowledge of a few other random languages. }} * '''Welcome House''' are basic apartments within the same block as Normandy Hotel. * {{sleep | name=Union Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=31.20065 | long=29.89764 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single from {{EGP|150}} | wikidata=Q111531659 | lastedit=2018-01-06 | content=On the fifth floor right at the Corniche. Great views from the lobby. The rooms are just ok, but the bathroom however is new and comfortable. If this is full, try Triomphe, or vice-versa. }} * {{sleep | name=Nile Excelsior Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=16 Borsa Kadema Street, Manshyia | lat=31.19932 | long=29.89476 | directions= | phone=+20 3 480 0799 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Cheap downtown hotel, cleaning erratic but value for what you're paying. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Queen Transit Alexandria | alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Hasan El Shiekh Street | lat=31.20038 | long=29.89607 | directions= | phone=+20 3-4815556 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price={{EGP|100}} for single rooms, {{EGP|150}} for double room with bathroom + breakfast + Wi-Fi | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-02-20 | content=Mansheya, downtown, sea side Corniche 1st Floor, in the heart of Alexandria, very new and clean amazing sea view. }} * {{sleep | name=Acropole Hotel | alt= | url= | email=reservation@acropolehotel.com | address=27 El Ghorfa El Togaria Street | lat= | long= | directions=+20 1200111170 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111530503 | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content= }} === Mid-range === * {{sleep | name=Holiday Manshya Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=6 Ourabi Sq | lat=31.19876 | long=29.8929 | directions= | phone=+20 3 4801559 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=A no-frills two-star hotel with private bathrooms and hot water, popular with overland trucks setting off down into the heart of Africa. Not far from the shore and within walking distance from the center of town. Watch out for bedbugs. It wasn't open in 2021. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Delta | alt= | url=http://www.hoteldeltaalex.com/en/ | email=info@hoteldeltaalex.com | address=14 Champollion Street, Mazarita | lat=31.204 | long=29.907 | directions=corner of Omar Lotfy | phone=+20 3 486 5188 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double {{EGP|1800}} | wikidata=Q111531949 | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Modern concrete block with 63 basic rooms, some overlooking the sea. Aircon, cable TV. Not far from the Alexandria Library. }} * {{sleep | name=San Giovanni Hotel | alt= | url=http://sangiovannistanly.com/home-en/ | email= | address=205 El Gaish Rd | lat=31.234 | long=29.948 | directions=at Stanley Bridge | phone=+20 3 546 7774 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Old-style hotel with 32 rooms and the traditional Egyptian reek of cigarette smoke. Looks onto the beach restaurant strip. }} === Splurge === [[File:San Stefano Grand Plaza.JPG|thumb|San Stefano Grand Plaza]] : Most of Alexandria's top-end hotels are along the coast to the east, several km from the historic city centre. * {{sleep | name=Four Seasons San Stefano | alt= | url=http://www.fourseasons.com/alexandria/ | email= | address=399 El Geish Road | lat=31.245766 | long=29.96566 | directions= | phone=+20 3 581 8000 | tollfree= | fax=+20 3 581 8080 | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double {{EGP|5000}} | wikidata=Q111400698 | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Upscale resort hotel scores highly for comfort and service. With private beach, the public Med beaches are filthy. }} * {{sleep | name=Helnan Palestine | alt= | url=http://www.helnan.com/en/Hotels/Index/5 | email=alexandria@helnan.com | address=Montezah Park, El Saa Square | lat=31.288632 | long=30.018049 | directions= | phone=+20 3 547 3500 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double {{EGP|5000}} | wikidata=Q63990925 | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Boxy modern place facing Montaza Royal Palace, comfort, cleanliness and internet erratic. }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Alexandria Green Plaza | alt= | url=http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/hotels/index.jhtml | email= | address=14th of May Bridge Road | lat=31.205863 | long=29.965655 | directions=within Green Plaza mall | phone=+20 3 420 9120 | tollfree= | fax=+20 3 420 9140 | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double {{EGP|1500}} | wikidata=Q111400696 | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Decent mid- to upmarket hotel, clean and well-run. }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Alexandria Corniche | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=31.261617 | long=29.983773 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-10-31 | content=This is their other city offering. "Hilton Kings Ranch" is away out towards Borg El Arab Airport. }} * {{sleep | name=Le Metropole | alt= | url=http://www.paradiseinnegypt.com/Metropole/ | email= | address=52 Saad Zaghloul St | lat=31.200759 | long=29.900232 | directions=near el-Raml station | phone=+20 3 486 1465 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double {{EGP|1500}} | wikidata=Q63985038 | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Opened in 1902, this is one of Alexandria's two grand old hotels (the Cecil is the other). It has been partly renovated, keeping the turn-of-the-century style. It's on Alexandria's main street, handy for sightseeing but lower floor rooms (especially at the back) can be noisy. The food is nothing special but the views from the rooftop restaurant make it special. }} * {{sleep | name=Sheraton Montazah Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/alysi-sheraton-montazah-hotel/ | email= | address=Corniche Road | lat=31.281337 | long=30.011266 | directions= | phone=+20 3 548 0550 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double {{EGP|1800}} | wikidata=Q111400701 | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=It's at the far east end of the Corniche. Small, shabby and in need of renovation and a good clean. The beach (across a very busy road) is grubby. }} * {{sleep | name=Steigenberger Cecil Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.steigenberger.com/en/hotels/all-hotels/egypt/alexandria/steigenberger-cecil-hotel | email= | address=16 Saad Zagloul Square | lat=31.2008 | long=29.8984 | directions= | phone=+20 3 487 7173 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double {{EGP|2700}} | wikipedia=Cecil Hotel (Alexandria) | wikidata=Q5056137 | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=Alexandria's other grand old hotel, many of whose rooms are named after famous guests like Agatha Christie and Winston Churchill. Great central location, clean and comfy, helpful staff. The old wire-cage lift conjures period charm but it's basically a modern hotel, though some furnishings (e.g. bathroom) are kinda tired. Good sound-proofing, which you'll appreciate given the swirling Corniche traffic and many wedding parties held here. Decent Jardin restaurant for breakfast but the Chinese restaurant has closed. Service sometimes slow. }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Blu Hotel Alexandria | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-alexandria | email= | address=Mehwar El Taameer Northern Coast Road km 23, Alex West | lat=31.055637 | long=29.719077 | directions= | phone=+20 3 589 6000 | tollfree= | fax=+20 3 589 6020 | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double {{EGP|2000}} | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content=The km 23 in the address indicates how far out this is, in the part-built, part abandoned Alex West district. Visitors have enjoyed the clean spacious rooms (with a/c) and away-from-the-city feel, but there's some construction noise. }} * {{sleep | name=Cherry Maryski Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.cm-alex.com/ | email=info@cm-alex.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+20 3 488 1111 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q110493429 | lastedit=2022-04-07 | content= }} ==Stay safe== <!-- Please don't change this without first discussing on Talk --> Although crime is rarely violent, beware of pickpockets and don't flash your valuables or wear a bum bag or fanny pack. Street kids, taxi drivers, and others may harass tourists. They will usually desist after a stern "La!" or two. Or you can say "la shukran!" (no thanks) or "emshi" (go!). Alexandria is a conservative city, so women should cover their shoulders, midriffs, cleavage and legs. Even still, women can expect to be heckled or harassed in the street, especially if walking alone. The best response is to ignore the offender and pretend you don't hear anything. Cover your head when entering places of worship. ===Emergency=== * '''Emergency number:''' '''123''' * '''Police number:''' '''122''' * '''Fire HQ number:''' '''180''' * '''Military Police hotline:''' '''16039''' or '''19039''' * {{listing | name=Central Ambulance | url= | email= | address=Kom El Dekka | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Alexandria Station | phone=+20 3-4922257 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=El Moassa Hospital | alt= | url= | email= | address=El Horreya Rd., El Hadara | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+20 3-4212885, +20 3-4212886, +20 3-4212887, +20 3-4212888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6856606 | content= }} * {{listing | name=El Shatby Hospital | url= | email= | address=Dr. Hassan Sobhy St., El Shatby | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+20 3-4871586 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Medical Research Institute | alt= | url= | email= | address=El Horreya Rd. | lat= | long= | directions=beside Gamal Abdel Nasser Hospital | phone=+20 3-4215455, +20 3-4212373 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Bacos Ambulance | url= | email= | address=Mehatet El Souk St., Bacos | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+20 3-5703454 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Poison Center Main University Hospital | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+20 3 4862244 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} == Cope == Many consulates have closed and centralized in Cairo: this includes the American, Italian, Irish, Chinese and Greek. * {{flag|France}} {{listing | name=France | alt= | url=https://eg.ambafrance.org/-Le-Consulat-general-de-France-a-Alexandrie- | email= | address=2 Ahmed Ouraby | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+20 3 484 7950 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 9:30AM-4PM | price= | wikidata=Q16507529 | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content= }} * {{flag|UK}} {{listing | name=UK | alt= | url=https://www.consulate-info.com/consulate/12376/United-Kingdom-in-Alexandria | email= | address=Abu an Nawatir | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+20 3 546 7001 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q59290154 | lastedit=2021-10-12 | content= }} == Connect == [[File:Monastery of Abu Mena (03-2009).jpg|thumb|Abu Mena monastery]] Alexandria and the airport have 4G from all Egyptian carriers. As of Oct 2021, 5G has not yet rolled out in Egypt. == Go next == * '''Abu Mena''' is a Christian pilgrimage site 45 km south of Alexandria, inscribed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * '''[[El Alamein]]''' is a small town on the coast 120 km west of Alexandria. In 1942 the Axis forces under Rommel had swept this far across Libya towards Cairo and Suez. They were halted in June 1942 by Allied forces under Auchinleck, and sent retreating by Montgomery in November. The town has memorials, museums and war graves commemorating all nations. It's usually done as a day trip from Alexandria. * '''Marina El Alamein''' is the upmarket beach resort 20 km before El Alamein main town. * '''[[Marsa Matruh]]''' is start of the desert road to Siwa Oasis, but check if the highway is open. The oasis towns are usually reached via Cairo. * '''[[Cairo]]''' can be done as a day-trip, but needs longer, and you'll probably pass through on your way to Luxor, Aswan or the Red Sea resorts. {{geo|31.19929|29.90925|zoom=14}} {{guidecity}} {{isPartOf|Lower_Egypt}} {{Related|UNESCO_World_Heritage_List}} 35zu2gg3fmj70g4jhrrfd8cf9ffcv6x 0 1121 5091006 5089819 2025-07-10T18:31:21Z Mrkstvns 144844 /* Other destinations */ add Cajas NP 5091006 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|S-amer africa default banner.jpg|pgname=Andean Highlands}} [[File:Guaranda (167281939).jpeg|thumb|Llamas are common in the highlands]] The '''Andean Highlands''' are a very scenic region in [[Ecuador]]. At an elevation of over 2,200 m (and often a lot more!), they offer a breathtaking natural experience. This part of Ecuador preserves much of its original pre-Columbian heritage, which is seen in the food, language, clothes and costumes of many people. ==Cities== {{mapframe|-1.4|-78.7|zoom=7|height=680|width=420}} Arranged by province. ===Azuay=== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cuenca (Ecuador)|Cuenca]]|wikidata=Q54886}} — The third largest city in the country, a modern place with lot of attractions and beautiful colonial architecture. ===Bolivar=== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Guaranda]]|wikidata=Q264464}} — The "City of the Seven Hills" was founded by the Spanish in 1571. The quiet colonial town is the capital of Bolivar Province called also "the Rome of Ecuador" because it was built on seven hills. It is the smallest provincial capital in Ecuador * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Salinas de Guaranda]]|wikidata=Q3945528}} — Famous for its brand of cheeses called ''Salinerito'' (considered the country's premium range) as well as wool spinning and dye mills. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Santiago de Bolivar]]|wikidata=Q14232534|lat=-1.6999 | long=-79.0009}} — It is a very interesting small colonial town in the Andes. Great walks around the area through ancient paths used by natives before the conquistadores arrived. Community projects for developing sustainable tourist activities are being organized by a group of enthusiasts nowadays. The main square houses and surroundings gives this placid town a special atmosphere. ===Carchi=== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tulcán]]|wikidata=Q752113}} — ===Chimborazo=== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Alausi]]|wikidata=Q2640072}} — Start of the famous Devil's nose train ride. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Guamote]]|wikidata=Q5613497}} — * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Guano]]|wikidata=Q5613774}} — * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Riobamba]]|wikidata=Q478675}} — A nice city in Central Ecuador. Starting point for tours of the 6,268-m (20,500-ft) Chimborazo volcano, which can also be seen from the city ===Cotopaxi=== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chugchilán]]|wikidata=Q5115954}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Isinliví]]|wikidata=Q14219227}} — * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Latacunga]]|wikidata=Q379338}} — * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Zumbahua]]|wikidata=Q5247872}} — ===Imbabura=== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ibarra]]|wikidata=Q946384}} — Capital of Imbabura province, close to [[Colombia]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Otavalo]]|wikidata=Q1020794}} — World famous for its handicrafts market. ===Loja=== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Loja]]|wikidata=Q944697}} — A larger city along south, close to [[Vilcabamba]] ===Pichincha=== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mindo]]|wikidata=Q3081485}} — A small town in a beautiful cloud forest * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Quito]]|wikidata=Q2900}} — Capital of Ecuador, and an international travel hub * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tababela]]|wikidata=Q22116922}} — ===Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas=== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Santo Domingo de los Colorados]]|wikidata=Q1015654}} — The fourth most populous city of Ecuador. Where the Tsáchilas live ===Tungurahua=== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ambato]]|wikidata=Q210161}} — Transport hub in the center of Ecuador * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Baños]]|wikidata=Q812717}} — Adventure capital of Ecuador, popular with tourists but far from overrun with them. Here you can go biking, rafting, hiking and a lot more ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[El Cajas National Park|Cajas National Park]] | lat=-2.8198| long=-79.2595|wikidata=Q1295864}} – highland park with mountainous terrain, abundant lakes and diverse wildlife * {{marker|name=[[Cayambe Coca National Park]] | wikidata=Q4744643}} – draws mountaineering visitors to several mountain peaks, including the third highest peak in Ecuador, and nature lovers to look for the diverse animal and plant species throughout the park * {{marker|name=[[Chimborazo]]|wikidata=Q14081}} – Ecuador's highest mountain at just about 6,263 m (20,548 ft) * {{marker|name=[[Laguna Cuicocha]]|wikidata=Q1143300}} * {{marker|name=[[Laguna Quilotoa]]|wikidata=Q1641276}} * {{marker|name=[[Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve]]|wikidata=Q4746787}} * {{marker|name=[[Sangay National Park]]|wikidata=Q839603}} * {{marker|name=[[Vilcabamba]]|wikidata=Q153528}} — A very scenic valley south of Loja with good hiking opportunities ==Understand== The Ecuadorian Andes consists of two mountain ranges running in parallel north to south, the '''Cordillera Occidental''' in the west and the '''Cordillera Central''' in the east. Both ranges contain numerous tall volcanoes such as {{marker|type=do|name=[[Chimborazo]]|wikidata=Q14081}} ({{cvt|6263|m|ft|abbr=on}}), {{marker|type=do|name=[[Cotopaxi]]|wikidata=Q181476}} ({{cvt|5897|m|ft|abbr=on}}), {{marker|type=do|name=[[Cayambe Coca National Park#Landscape|Cayambe]]|wikidata=Q754734}} ({{cvt|5790|m|ft|abbr=on}}), and {{marker|type=do|name=[[Illiniza|the Illinizas]]|wikidata=Q734280}} ({{cvt|5245|m|ft|abbr=on}} and {{cvt|5126|m|ft|abbr=on}}) which are popular targets for mountain climbers. In between them is the extensively settled and farmed central plateau that Alexander von Humboldt dubbed the '''Avenue of the Volcanoes'''. The [[Pan-American Highway]], signed as E35 in Ecuador, runs the length of this corridor and connects its major cities. Climate in the Andean highlands varies greatly by elevation, from cold ''páramo'' (alpine tundra) to warm subtropical zones. ==Talk== Almost everyone speaks [[Spanish]]. However for many people, especially in the countryside and Chimborazo/Tungurahua provinces, [[Quichua]] is the first language, and any attempt to speak some will be very well received. English is not commonly spoken, at least not beyond a basic level. ==Get in== Quito ({{IATA|UIO}}) is the main air hub, and there are also international buses from [[Peru]] and [[Colombia]]. Domestically, you can take buses from many places in the [[Coastal Lowlands (Ecuador)|Coastal Lowlands]] and the [[Amazon (Ecuador)|Amazon Rainforest]] and flights to Mariscal Lamar International Airport({{IATA|CUE}}). Although not too frequented by tourists the bus ride from [[Guayaquil]] into [[Babahoyo]] is most scenic and you will often see agricultural workers hard at work tilling the fields. ==Get around== Due to the very uneven terrain, even short distances can take some time to cover. Buses run almost everywhere, and is the main mode of transportation. For longer distances (e.g. Quito to Cuenca or Loja) you could consider flying. ==See== There are beautiful colonial towns which you should see and spend time in. However, the natural scenery is even more breathtaking. ===Itineraries=== * [[Quilotoa Loop]]: [[Saquisilí]], [[Laguna Quilotoa]] and [[Isinliví]] ==Do== The Andean Highlands offers many opportunities for world-class hiking, biking, rafting, mountain climbing, birdwatching and horse-back riding. ==Eat== All local dishes are delicious: * ''sancocho'' is a soup made with sheep or pork meat; * ''guaguatanda'' is the bread of All Souls Day, * ''llapingachos'' (potato cakes) and ''empanadas'' * and the famous "Salinas cheese" in [[Salinas de Guaranda]]. ==Drink== ==Stay safe== Look at individual city guides for more information. The coast and Ecuador in general are quite safe, but take normal precautions and use common sense. Don't wander around at dark in places you don't know are safe. If going off the beaten path, do some extra research. ==Stay healthy== Due to the elevation, [[altitude sickness]] is a risk. Take it easy your first days. ==Go next== The other regions of the Ecuadorian mainland are the [[Amazon (Ecuador)|Amazon Rainforest]] and [[Coastal Lowlands (Ecuador)|Coastal Lowlands]]. You can also fly to the [[Galapagos Islands]] from Quito, or visit Ecuador's neighbors [[Colombia]] and [[Peru]]. {{IsPartOf|Ecuador}} {{outlineregion}} {{geo|-1|-79|zoom=7}} c9jmmfpjp76m60nqkqyak3rmk9humuc 0 1269 5090863 5068810 2025-07-10T14:28:03Z 2001:818:E7A2:5300:94D8:8AEF:AF36:4B1E /* Stay safe */ unnecessary to recommend violence toward an animal. People can make up their own mind how to deal with strays. 5090863 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Antananarivo banner.jpg}} '''Antananarivo''' (AN-tan-AN-ah-REEV-oo) (City of a Thousand), also known as '''Tana''', is the capital and largest city of [[Madagascar]]. It has more universities, nightclubs, art venues, and medical services than any other city on the island. Major historic landmarks and attractions in the city include the reconstructed royal palaces and the Andafiavaratra Palace, the tomb of Rainiharo, Tsimbazaza Zoo, Mahamasina Stadium, Lake Anosy, four 19th-century martyr cathedrals, and the Museum of Art and Archaeology. ==Understand== [[File:Lake Anosy, Central Antananarivo, Capital of Madagascar, Photo by Sascha Grabow.jpg| right | thumb | Central Antananarivo, including Lake Anosy]] A city of some 1.6 million people at 1280 m, Antananarivo became established by Merina King Andrianjaka around 1610, when he drove out the Vazimba people to create the Kingdom of Imerina. First called Analamanga, the city was renamed Antananarivo, meaning city of the thousand, later by King Andriamasinavalona, in honor of his soldiers. After a period of French rule starting in 1897 and a failed armed rebellion in 1947–1948, the city and country emerged as independent in 1960. Merina and other Malagasy people along with Chinese, Indian, and Europeans live in the city today. ===Climate=== {{Climate|janhigh=26.4|aprprecip=49.8|octlow=14.1|novlow=15.7|declow=16.9|janprecip=325.5|febprecip=254.5|marprecip=159.5|mayprecip=16.0|auglow=10.9|junprecip=4.0|julprecip=6.5|augprecip=7.6|sepprecip=9.4|octprecip=41.8|novprecip=112.2|decprecip=211.7|seplow=12.1|jullow=10.5|febhigh=26.3|octhigh=25.7|marhigh=26.2|aprhigh=25.4|mayhigh=23.7|junhigh=21.4|julhigh=20.5|aughigh=21.4|sephigh=23.7|novhigh=26.9|junlow=11.5|dechigh=26.8|units=Metric|janlow=17.3|feblow=17.4|marlow=17.0|aprlow=15.8|maylow=13.8|description=Souce: [https://worldweather.wmo.int/en/city.html?cityId=7 World Meteorological Organization/Directorate General of Meteorology (Méteo Madagascar)] }} Antananarivo has a mountainous temperate climate, despite being situated in the tropics, due to its high elevation of 1,300–1,400&nbsp;m (4,265 to 4,593&nbsp;ft) above sea level. Antananarivo receives practically all of its average annual 1,400&nbsp;mm (55.1&nbsp;in) of rainfall between November and April. The dry season between May and October is pleasant and sunny, although somewhat chilly, especially during the nights, and in the mornings and evenings. Although frosts are rare in Antananarivo, they are common at higher elevations. The daily and monthly temperature variations are quite small. Means range from 22.2 °C (72.0 °F) to 15.3 °C (59.5 °F). ==Get in== Antananarivo is the main entry point for Madagascar by air. International flights to the capital are covered in the main [[Madagascar]] page. ===By plane=== {{go | name=Ivato International Airport | alt={{IATA|TNR}} | url= | email= | address= | lat=-18.796944 | long=47.478889 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ivato International Airport | image=Ivato Intl Airport Antananarivo Madagascar.jpg | wikidata=Q670038 | lastedit=2023-07-21 | content=Antananarivo's major airport. It is served by Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Air France, Air Mauritius, and Kenya Airways. During high season, expect lengthy queues, numerous forms to fill out and chaotic handling for hygiene check, visa purchase and immigration. Once you get past baggage claim, expect a mass of individuals pestering you to "help" you with your luggage or to show you how to find a taxi (evidence of the country's 25% unemployment rate). The "porters" are particularly bad, so hold on to your bags and load them yourself into your transport; anyone who can get a hand on your bag will then follow you demanding remuneration. If you do need help with your luggage, it is wise to arrange an airport pick-up before arrival. However, in the shoulder season and beyond there is a much calmer and more relaxed atmosphere at the airport with few to no porters left, helpful taxi drivers, and fast, friendly but still somewhat chaotic immigration services. }} There are two ATMs: '''MCB''' (Mastercard and Visa) and '''BFV-Société Générale''' (Mastercard and Visa) — in the international terminal. There are 24 hour exchange windows inside the international terminal and outside of the airport in a separate building adjacent to the parking lot. Transport in a private vehicle to the city center will cost 60,000–80,000 [[Madagascar#Money|Ar]] (June 2023) – costs will be at the high end of the cost spectrum after daylight hours. It will take a half hour in the late evening and early morning to reach the city center, and usually more than an hour during other times when the roads are congested; if you are transiting through Tana overnight, consider a hotel near the airport. * The '''''taxi brousse''''' is an incredibly cheap option, and should cost 2×800=1600 Ar from the airport to downtown. You need to take two seats: one for you and one for your bag (if you can't/don't want to balance it on your lap for an hour). Look for the mini buses with a big red D sign on them. * {{listing | name=Tsara Car Rental | alt= | url= | email= tsaracarrental@gmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+261 34 59 036 39 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Shared: 20,000 Ar per person; private: 50,000 Ar for 1–3 passengers, 110,000 Ar for 4–7 passengers | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=Provides airport shuttle service with shared ride or private; 1–7 passengers aboard van. }} ===By road=== [[File:Taxi Tana.jpg|thumbnail|Taxi Tana]] For travelling by road, there are three options: a private vehicle hire, a scheduled bus service or ''taxi brousse'' (bush taxi). Vehicles can be hired through various agencies in Antananarivo. Individuals that work as freelance driver-guides will also approach you while you walk around in the streets or sit in a café. Budget €60 per day if you wish to hire a driver, and clarify how the driver's expenses (food, accommodation) is handled if you hire the car for trips that last more than one day. You may need to sign a "contract" to be shown to police officers that may stop the car at checkpoints along the road. It is allowed to check the technical state of the vehicle before you agree. There are several companies that operate scheduled bus services between Antananarivo and larger towns of Madagascar. * {{listing|type=go | name= Cotisse Transport | alt= | url=https://cotisse-transport.com | email=cotisse.transport@gmail.com | address=IVM 12 TER AT, Ambodivona | lat= -18.8929198 | long=47.5295884 | directions= | phone=+261 32 11 027 33 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=06:00–20:30 | price= | lastedit=2023-06-13 | content=Daily services to Mahajanga, Morondava, Fianarantsoa, Toamasina, Antsiranana. vehicles in three categories. Departs on time even if the vehicle is not full. Does not take passengers along the route (unless the passenger has bought a ticket). The Mercedes Sprinter vehicles are in a better state than taxi-brousses. Entertainment (Malagasy pop music) and free Wi-Fi on board. Timetables and prices are published on the web page; additional buses are run if demand is high. Requires the passengers to arrive one hour before departure; the hour can be spent in a decent restaurant with very clean toilets next to Cotisse's premises. Book ahead. }} * {{go | name=Soatrans Plus | alt= | url=https://www.soatransplus.mg/ | email= | address=Andrefanambohijanahary 7 | lat=-18.9211 | long=47.52113 | directions=RN 7, 500 m south of Lake Anosy | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Antsirabeː 5 hr, 25 000 Ar (VIP), Mahajangaː 14 hr, 70 000 (Premium), 130 000 Ar (VIP+) ) | lastedit=2025-02-08 | content= }} * {{listing|type=go | name= Transpost | alt= | url=http://www.paositramalagasy.mg/Articles.aspx?rub=ProTransport | email= | address=Rue Ratsimilaho | lat= -18.9105766 | long=47.5256762 | directions= | phone=+261 22 302 27 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= M–F 08:00–16:00; Sa 08:00–12:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-11-19 | content=Early-morning services to Mahajanga three times a week. Inquire at the central post office. }} * '''Besady Plus''' buses to Nosy Be and Sainte Marie Via Ambanja and Toamasina. Tickets includes sea transfer. All Besady Plus buses have free Wi-Fi and go on time. * '''Malagasycar Transport Premiere Classe''' {{phone|+261-32-03-18888}} or {{phone|+261-34-12-58888}}. Antananarivo from [[Mahajanga]] Ambanja (Ankify port nosy be) * '''Casycar VIP Transport''' has 5 seat cars going from Antananarivo to Antsirabe. They depart 6 times a day from Hotel Chalet des roses in Antananarivo city center. The fare is 26,000 Ar. Saves you having to get a taxi out to the bus terminal. The taxis-brousses link the capital to most other towns and depart from four major bus stations, which roughly correspond to the points of the compass, i.e. the northern bus station includes destinations such as Nosy Be and Antsiranana (Diego-Suarez), while the eastern one (Gare Routiere de l'est) has destinations such as Andasibe. If you don't know which one you need ask a taxi driver to take you to the right one for your location. On arrival to the station you will be mobbed by touts trying to sell the services of every destination and route. Don't be intimidated as they do this to all arrivals to the station, local and tourist alike; rather look for a vehicle that seems reliable to you and which is almost full. Most stations are lined with ticket kiosk with signs overhead advertising their locations. On the wall inside there should be a price list advertising locations, so make sure you don't pay more than this (and remember luggage is included). You can also ask to be dropped off on route before the final destination. After buying your ticket, the bus may not leave for a long time, as they will only leave when full. Try to avoid the back row of seating, this generally has the least leg room; you may buy an extra ticket (i.e. three tickets for two persons) if you want to have more space. * {{listing|type=go | name=Gare routière du Nord | alt=Northern bus station | url= | email= | address=Along Rue Docteur Raboto Raphael | lat=-18.89298 | long=47.52986 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Destinations include Antsiranana/Diego-Suarez (for Ankarana), Ambanja (for Nosy Be), Mahajanga (for Ankarafantsika) and Antsohihy among others. The minibuses line both sides of a road and display their location on a poster on the front. There is a public toilet at one end of the street and a number of street food vendors. For Ankarana National Park catch a bush-taxi with a destination of Antsiranana and ask to get dropped off by the park entrance. This involves a very painful 20&nbsp;hour journey (~65,000 Ar in January 2012). You will likely stop over in Ambanja for half an hour (~14&nbsp;hours into the journey). Ambanja is also where you need to change for Nosy Be. For Ankarafantsika National Park catch a taxi to Mahajanga and ask to be dropped off at the park (~9&nbsp;hours, 30,000 Ar in January 2012). }} * {{listing|type=go | name=Gare Routiere de l'est | alt=Eastern Bus Station | url= | email= | address= | lat=-18.89398 | long=47.54878 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Destinations include Moramanga (for Andasibe). Bush taxis depart from this comparatively modern station which includes an official kiosk where all tickets are bought from. There's also a toilet which costs a few ariary to use (amusingly it costs more for a 'pipi' than a 'caca' and you have to specify before you go in). You can buy food from street vendors or a snacks from a nearby petrol station. For Andasibe-Mantadia National Park travel first to Moramanga (5,000 Ar as of January 2012, 4&nbsp;hours) then catch a connecting bus to Andasibe village (1000 Ar, 2&nbsp;hours). Buses leave regularly, up to every hour. }} * {{listing|type=go | name=Farakana bus station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Destinations include Mananjary, Morondava and Ambositra among many more. This dusty station has a number of kiosks from which to buy tickets, and a few cafes where you can pass the time waiting. It's next to a market. For Ranomafana National Park catch a bus with an end destination of Mananjary or one of the other cities south of here. Journey time is about 14&nbsp;hours (~60,000 Ar in January 2012.) These run less frequently with some services leaving in the afternoon. Don't worry if you get dropped off in the village in the middle of the night, at least one hotel, (Palmeria) has a night guard who can sort out a room for you. This is also the bus station wanted for Anja Reserve (~11&nbsp;hours, 35,000 Ar in January 2012) and Isalo National Park. Most the buses will stop off in Ambositra where you can get a meal or use the toilet. }} === By rail === The colonial central station, {{marker|type=go|name=Gare Soarano|lat=-18.903297|long=47.521152}}, is located on ''Arabe Rainibertsimisaraka'', at the northwestern end of ''Avenue de l'Independence''. It has been converted into a small shopping mall as it sees no or very little passenger traffic. If the train to Toamasina runs, then it is not a mode of transport but an adventure for the lovers of rail transportation. Inquire at the decent ''Café de la gare''. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|-18.91|47.52|zoom=14}} The city centre is focused on Avenue de L'Independence. Restaurants and shops line both sides of the road and it's the place to go if you want to visit a restaurant or decent cafe, including a good pizzeria and a take-away pizza restaurant. There are also internet cafes and photo-printing facilities. There are three main methods of navigating the capital: taxi, bus and on foot. * Taxis are preferred by most tourists and can be found easily. There are no meters, agree the rate with the driver before entering the taxi. Expect to be quoted 5,000 Ar for a short ride in town and 20,000 Ar for a longer ride; a one-way trip to the airport will be 40,000–60,000 Ar. 60,000 at night. A taxi can be hired for half a day or a day, expect to be quoted 150,000 Ar for half a day. You can bargain. That traffic tends to be heavy in Analakely (Antananrivo's centre and busiest area) during typical rush hour times, allow for extra time if you need to pass that area on your way to the airport. * Taxi-bes typically are old and smoky Mercedes-Benz TN that go along a defined, numbered route. If you are comfortable being squeezed onto a van with other people, the buses, or ''Taxi-be'', are the most affordable form of transportation, with prices around 600 Ar. There is no plan of the route system, nor is there a timetable, only locals use Taxi-be. * While the city is quite large, Analakely is fairly navigable on foot. Prepare for a slalom around market stalls, cars, holes and other obstacles, don't carry anything you need, in particular valuables. ==See== [[File:Crocodile of Croc'Farm.JPG|thumb|right|Crocodile of Croc'Farm]] The city is really attractive and a photographers dream. The architecture is a mix of French countryside and Indonesia. Rice paddies scattered all over the city add a brilliant green to the pastel terracotta of the buildings. * {{see | name=Rova | alt=Queen's palace | url= | email= | address= | lat=-18.92378 | long=47.53206 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Royal palace complex and former residence of the rulers of the Merina Kingdom. A cab ride (or very long walk) from the hotel district, but be warned that it has been severely fire damaged by suspected arson in the late 1990s, and only the stone shell remains, together with some outbuildings, statues and a chapel (the latter rebuilt with American money). Inte and then native Tana guides (usually university students with good English or French) may give a good account of the Rova's features in return for a gratuity. The site offers good panoramic views of the city. While walking up the hill towards the palace you may be told by local guides that the Rova is shut for the day and to follow them elsewhere to a different attraction but the likelihood is that the gate will be open as normal. }}<!-- -->[[File:Palais d'Andafiavaratra 01.jpg|right|thumb|Andafiavaratra Palace]] * {{see | name=Prime Minister's Palace | alt= Andafiavaratra Palace | url= | email= | address= | lat=-18.92125 | long=47.53295 | directions=Near the Rova | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Sa-Th 10:00-17:00 | price=3,000 Ar | lastedit=2016-09 | wikidata=Q181663 | wikipedia=Andafiavaratra Palace | content=The palace of the prime minister during the reigns of the last queens is now a museum with an exhibition of precious items saved from the fire of the Rova in 1995, such as the red jacket of Radama I, the royal coral jewels, various royal portraits and the diadem of the last queen. }} * {{see | name=Lemurs' Park | alt= | url=http://www.lemurspark.com | email= | address=Route Nationale n°1, PK 22, Katsaoka Imerintsiatosika - Route d'Ampefy | lat=-18.95271 | long=47.35828 | directions=25&nbsp;km West of Antananarivo on RN1 | phone=+261 20 22 234 36 | tollfree= | hours=09:00 - 17:00, last admittance 16:00 | price=70,000 Ar/person including the guide | lastedit=2025-02-08 | content=A conservation park established by a French-Japanese charity which hosts mostly lemurs rescued from illegal captivity or attempted smuggling. It aims at reintroducing a part of their animals into their natural habitat. Over 6000 trees have been planted in this 5&nbsp;hectare park preserving a lot of important flora and fauna of Madagascar. The park gives an opportunity to see at close range a variety of lemurs, which would be much more difficult in one of Madagascar's National Parks or in a Western zoo. Apart from lemurs, it has cameleons, turtles and several species of birds. The park also gives valuable employment to graduates from the local university as guides and free tours to local school children. Taking a guide is compulsory. Carry local cash as they do not accept cards. There is no public transport back from the park (taxi-brousses into town are mostly full when they pass here), so hire a taxi for the round trip; the park also offers the service of picking you up in town (see webpage). }} * {{see | name=Croc Farm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-18.78455 | long=47.46361 | directions=10 minutes car ride from Ivato Airport,about 30 minutes' drive (25&nbsp;km) outside Antananarivo | phone=+261 20 22 030 71 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-17:00 | price= 25,000 Ar | content=Located on more than 3 hectares of plants, trees and flowers of Madagascar. You can watch the crocodiles, 80 other species of animals (turtles, snakes, lemurs...) and the smallest chameleon in the world. The best time to see crocodiles in action is during feeding time. And for the brave, the Croc'Farm restaurant preparing several crocodile meat dishes and favorite dish is the "Croc burger". As the park also breeding crocodile for leather goods, you'll find in the shop belts, bags but also the Malagasy crafts. }} * {{see | name=Botanical and Zoological Garden of Tsimbazaza | alt= | url=http://pbzt.recherches.gov.mg/ | email= | address= | lat=-18.93095 | long=47.52609 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-17:00 | price= | lastedit=2020-08-12 | content=Zoo and herbarium with animal skeletons on display too. }} * {{see | name=Cathedrale catholique d Andohalo | alt= | url=http://www.cathedraleandohalo.com/ | email= | address=Lalana Justin Rajoro | lat=-18.91792 | long=47.53070 | directions= | phone=+261 202220726 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-08-12 | content=Cathedral with a big statue of Mary that was built in 1890. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art and Archaeology | alt=Le Musée d'Art et d'Archéologie | url= | email= | address= | lat=-18.91450 | long=47.55188 | directions=on campus of University of Antananarivo | phone= | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-16:00 | price= | lastedit=2020-08-12 | content=kind of small. }} * {{see | name=Independence Avenue | alt=Avenue de L'Independence | url= | email= | address= | lat=-18.9057 | long=47.5231 | directions=3GVF+P72, Av. de L'Independance, Ryvan, Antananarivo | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-04 | content=A {{convert|1|km|mi|adj=on}} lane and main shopping street with several hotels, restaurants and offices. There is a nearby national monument that commemorates the events of the Malagasy Uprising against French colonial rule in 1947. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Jean Be Tours | alt= | url=https://www.jeanbetours.com/ | email=marivelo.trekk@yahoo.fr | address=Lot IVD 63 Ter AA, Ambohibahiny, Ankaraobato | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+261 34 17 478 38 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Jean Be Tours is a concierge travel guide service. The owner Jean is an experienced tour guide for Madagascar who speaks English and French. On individually organized trips, one can meet local people, take photographs and collect souvenirs and memories. }} * {{do | name=Mada-Liberté Off Road Motorcycle Tours in Madagascar (4WD Off Road Tours) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-04 | content= }} ==Buy== Shops line both sides of Avenue de L'Independence. Shops for the Maki and Baobab clothing brand shops can be found a few streets away. The main attraction for this area is the large central market (Aanalakey Market), which includes a covered section selling bags, jewellery and clothing at relatively cheap prices (remember to haggle). Outside there's a plethora of fruit, vegetable and spice stalls, where large packs of vanilla pods can be bought. If you do not want to bargain then try Lisy, a collection of shops with similar produce to the market at excellent prices. * {{buy | name=Analakely Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=Arabe Rahezavana | lat=-18.90788 | long=47.52675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 06:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2020-08-12 | content=Central market with lots of fruits, local artifacts, unique souvenirs, etc. Be careful for your personal belongings. }} Outside the centre there is a dedicated tourist market which has some thirty stalls selling souvenirs and local crafts. Definitely worth a visit. There are many large western style supermarkets notable the chains Shoprite, 'Jumboscore', Leader price. and Supermaki. Any taxi driver can take you to one. However, most stock is imported from abroad and so include a significant mark up (although most goods are still below European prices). For fresh goods like fruit and vegetables, significant savings can be made by buying them from the local markets stalls dotted throughout the city. ===Shopping malls and supermarkets=== * {{buy | name=Super U Supermarkets | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083283643784 | email= | address=Rue James Adrianisa | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=08:00–20:00 | price=lower price | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Super U has many stores all over Antanarivo. }} * {{listing | type=buy | name=Tana Water Front Mall | alt= | url=https://tanawaterfront.mg/ | email= | address= | lat=-18.89101 | long=47.52507 | directions= | phone=+261 34-2596840 | tollfree= | hours=09:00–20:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-06-14 | content=Shopping mall with a food court and Super U Hypermarket. }} * {{buy | name=Leader Price hypermarket | alt= | url=http://www.leaderprice.mg | email= | address=Ankorondrano | lat=-18.88048 | long=47.52162 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00–19:30 | price= | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=many stores in Antananarivo. }} * {{buy | name=Jumbo Score Hypermarket | alt= | url=http://www.jumbo-score.com | email= | address=Enceinte cora Ankorondrano | lat=-18.88350 | long=47.52610 | directions= | phone=+261-20-2268456 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:30-19:30 | price= | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=A large hypermarket. }} * {{buy | name=L A City Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Alarobia | lat=-18.87519 | long=47.51962 | directions=3 km north of downtown | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:30-19:30 | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=This is the largest shopping mall in Tana with 52 stores. There are stores for Orange, Airtel and Telma, there is also a Madagascar Airlines office and a Super U Hypermarket. }} * {{buy | name=Akoor Digue Shopping mall | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/akoordigue/ | email= | address=Amkazomanga | lat=-18.89194 | long=47.49265 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-19:00 | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=a mall with a Jumbo score Hypermarket. has a bank with an ATM. }} * {{buy | name=Supermaki | alt= | url=http://www.facebook.com/supermakimadagascar | email= | address= | lat=-18.90614 | long=47.50609 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=07:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-06-13 | content=A large chain of convenience stores all over Madagascar. }} ===Banks and ATMs=== Most banks have an ATM, although they often limit you to how much you can draw out at once. It's relatively simple to change money from euros and dollars to ariary, and you often get a better rate than at the airport. Some banks will also accept pound sterling. * {{buy | name=BNI Bank | alt= | url=http://www.bni.mg/en | email= | address=Arabenny 26 Jona 1960 | lat=-18.90983 | long=47.52695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24 hours | price= | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=BNI ATMs take Mastercard and Visa cards. Their website shows all their ATM locations. }} * {{buy | name=BFV-Société Générale bank | alt= | url=http://www.bfvsg.mg | email= | address= | lat=-18.91057 | long=47.52325 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24 hours | price= | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=BFV-SG ATMs take Mastercard (including Maestro debit cards), Visa card, Diners Club, American Express, and Discover Cards. Their website shows all their ATM locations. }} * {{buy | name=Bank of Africa | alt= | url=http://www.boa.mg | email= | address=Arabe Andrinampoinimeina | lat=-18.90392 | long=47.52221 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24 hours | price= | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=BOA ATMs take only Visa card. }} * {{buy | name=MBC Mauritius Commercial Bank | alt= | url=https://www.mcbmadagascar.com/fr/ | email= | address=RUE Solombavambohaka Frantsay 77 | lat=-18.90896 | long=47.52254 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24 hours | price= | lastedit=2023-06-13 | content=MBC ATMs take Mastercard, Visa card, Diners Club, Discover cards. }} * {{buy | name=AccesBanque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=ATM 24 hours | price= | lastedit=2023-06-13 | content=Mastercard and Visa card. }} * {{buy | name=BMOI | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=ATM 24 hours | price= | lastedit=2023-06-13 | content=BMOI ATMs only take Visa card. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=La Table de Mariette | url= | email= | address=11 rue George-V-Faravohitra | lat=-18.90708 | long=47.52951 | directions= | phone=+261 20 22 216 02 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a good choice for high quality Malagasy food. More expensive than many other restaurants. }} * {{eat | name=Ile Bourbon | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-18.90852 | long=47.51693 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Brasserie at the France Hotel | url= | email= | address=34 Ave de l'Independence | lat=-18.90674 | long=47.52371 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very good and inexpensive. Try the calamari. Also vegetarian (non vegan) dishes, a very cheesy veg lasagne for 13,000 Ar. }} * {{eat | name=Grill De Rova | url= | email= | address=Near Palace de Rova | lat=-18.92196 | long=47.53262 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small menu. Great Zebu! }} * {{eat | name=KudeTa | url= | email= | address=16 rue de la Reunion | lat=-18.91145 | long=47.52120 | directions= | phone=+261 20 22 281 54 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A slick setting for excellent French-influenced Malagasy food. }} * {{eat | name=Jasmin | alt= | url= | email= | address=Palace Analakely 101 Antananarivo | lat=-18.90166 | long=47.52875 | directions=behind BNI bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€7 for two courses and drink | content=Lovely veg meal with tofu. Perhaps a bit pricey. }} ==Drink== [[File:Three Horses beer.jpg|thumb|148x148px|THB is everywhere]] * Lots of bottled water (no tap water!), the main brand is Pura Vida, relatively expensive, with a 1.5-L bottle costing about 3000 Ar * THB (Three Horses Beer). Multi-awarded beer. * Madagascar wine — variable but so much cheaper than the alternative (imported French wine). * Bonbon Anglais — very sweet soft drink with bubble gum flavor, similar to South American Inka Cola. Excellent if you mix it with a little bit of THB. You may be presented with this when asking for ''limonade''. * Betsa-betsa — alcohol made from coconut water. Stronger than beer but not quite as potent as hard liquor. * Litchel (or Vin Litchi in French) — lychee wine. Some brands are off-dry and quite nice, others are sickeningly sweet. * Saint Claude — a local brand of rum with a hint of vanilla. ==Sleep== ===Budget=== [[File:Hôtel Le Cactus Vert.jpg|thumb|300px]] * {{sleep | name=Madagascar Underground Backpackers Hostel | alt= | url=http://madagascarunderground.com | email= | address=18 Lalana Rainitovo | lat=-18.90991 | long=47.52346 | directions= | phone=+261-34-90907 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=Dorm beds 45,000 Ar per person. Double rooms from 55000-80,000 Ar | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=6-bed dorms and double rooms. A clean place for backpackers and travellers. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Moonlight | alt= | url= | email= | address=62 Rue Rainandriamampandry | lat=-18.90500 | long=47.52693 | directions= | phone=+261 20 22-26870 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=from 30,000 till 55,000 Ar | lastedit=2023-06-10 | content=Single and double rooms with a TV, Wi-Fi, free coffee. Some rooms have bathrooms outside the room. Two communal terraces. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Niaouly | alt= | url=http://www.niaouly.com | email= | address=Laiana Tsiombikibo | lat=-18.91405 | long=47.52923 | directions= | phone=+261 20-2262765 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=From 55,000 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= 22 single/double rooms. with own bathroom free Wi-Fi. some rooms have a balcony overlooking the Ambohijatovo garden. on the ground floor you will find a lounge with satellite tv. Bar. Restaurant. hotel reception is open 24 hours. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Chez Francis | alt= | url=http://hotel-chezfrancis.com | email= | address=Soarano | lat=-18.90714 | long=47.52798 | directions= | phone=+261-20-2261365 | tollfree= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=From 55,000 Ar | lastedit=2023-06-17 | content=12 single/double rooms with own bathroom. has free Wi-Fi. }} * {{sleep | name=El Mundo Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lalana Ranafits Rahoerason | lat=-18.90691 | long=47.52651 | directions=at the bottom of the steps. | phone=+261 345091015 | tollfree= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=35,000 Ar | lastedit=2023-06-10 | content=A clean double room with own hot water bathroom. Friendly owners. Free Wi-Fi. }} * {{sleep | name=Aina Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=17 Lalana Ratsimilaho | lat=-18.91096 | long=47.52632 | directions= | phone=+261 20-2263051 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=76,000 Ar | lastedit=2023-04-17 | content=A clean nice size double room with own hot water bathroom. Cable TV. Fast Wi-Fi. Can pay with a mastercard. 10% discount if you stay five nights or more. }} * {{sleep | name=Andravoahangy hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rue Me Albertini | lat=-18.89796 | long=47.53060 | directions=not far from the Cotisse bus terminal and Tana waterfront mall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=35,000 Ar | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Clean double room with own bathroom. Free Wi-Fi. }} * {{sleep | name=Villa Ny Telomiova | alt= | url= | email= | address=Imerinafovoany-talatamaty Lot 5B | lat=-18.8425 | long=47.46867 | directions=6 km from the airport on the highway in too Antananarivo. | phone=+261-20-2465616 | tollfree= | checkin=24 hours | checkout=12:00 | price=dorm bed 30,000Ar | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=A nice clean place with friendly owner and free Wi-Fi. There is a Super U and banks with ATMs just up the road. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Manoir Rouge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ivato airport | lat=-18.80718 | long=47.48080 | directions=1 km (10 minutes walk) from airport | phone=+261 32-0526097 | tollfree= | checkin=24 hours | checkout=12:00 | price=dorm bed €4, single room €7, double room €9 (shared bath) or €15 (private bath) | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=There is a Supermaki and BFV bank nearby. Hotel arranges airport transfers for 15,000 Ar (2023). }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Le Logis | alt= | url=http://www.hotel-lelogis.com/ | email= | address= | lat=-18.9076 | long=47.5188 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=75,000 Ar | checkin= | checkout= | content=Résidence Hôtel. }} * {{sleep | name=Karibotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-18.9061 | long=47.5231 | directions=boulevard independence | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=€40 for double | checkin= | checkout= | content=Good alternative for Sakamange. More locals than tourists. }} * {{sleep | name=La Maison du Pyla | alt= | url=http://www.lamaisondupyla.com/en | email= | address= | lat=-18.9177 | long=47.5455 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=105,000 Ar for a double room with ensuite bathroom |lastedit= 2014-10 | checkin= | checkout= | content=This bed and breakfast is popular with researchers and NGOs, which makes for interesting conversation at meal times. The owner bakes homemade bread at breakfast time and is very attentive to guest needs and can help with travel arrangements including airport shuttles and reservation confirmations. The three-story building is a bit old, but is kept clean and in good repair. Meals are generous, the Wi-Fi works well, and the homemade infused rums are well worth a try. }} * {{sleep | name=Relais des Plateaux | alt= | url=http://www.relais-des-plateaux.com/en | email= | address=Lot 66 B Antanetibe Ivato | lat=-18.8340 | long=47.4627 | directions= | phone=+261 32 0567893 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=381,000 Ar for a double, 530,000 Ar for a deluxe room. Day-use prices are 214,000 Ar and 304,000 Ar for a double or deluxe room, respectively | lastedit=2014 | content=The main draw of this hotel is its location ten minutes from the airport and its free shuttle, saving travelers with stopovers the headache of spending an hour in traffic trying to reach a downtown hotel. It is clean, has a pool, a decent restaurant, hot showers, working Wi-Fi, and the amenities one would expect in a good hotel. The downside is that it is very expensive for what you get, with small, pod-like rooms, no extra amenities, and little to see or do in the immediate neighborhood. }} * {{sleep | name=La Ribaudière | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-18.9098 | long=47.5263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A good mid-range option. Very popular, good restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=A L'Hotel | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063836352595 | email= | address=Vf 12 Ankazotokana Ambanidia | lat=-18.9199 | long=47.5369 | directions=next door to BFV-SG Bank Ambanidia | phone=+261 32 05 536 86 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Simple and cheap. Near historical monument. 23 double rooms with own hot water bathroom cable TV. Safe box in every room. Free Wi-Fi. Has a restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Sakamanga | alt= | url=http://www.sakamanga.com | email=contact@sakamanga.com | address= | lat=-18.908261 | long=47.521297 | directions= | phone=+261 20 22 358 09 | tollfree= | fax= | price=€19-98, breakfast not included, Visa accepted | checkin= | checkout= | content=A good mid-range option in the center of the downtown area, but secluded from the streets. Rooms have air conditioning, Wi-Fi works well, there is a very nice pool, and the restaurant/bar serves drinks and light meals. Very popular, so book ahead. 32 rooms, reception open 24 hours. }} ===Splurge=== The two best known accommodations in the capital are the Colbert (pronounced like the Comedy Central show!) and the Carlton (formerly Hilton). However, in addition to being well known, these hotels are quite expensive, especially relative to other accommodations. * {{sleep | name=Hotel Carlton Madagascar | alt= | url=https://www.carlton-madagascar.com/en/ | email= | address=Rue Pierre Stibbe-Anosy 959 | lat=-18.9151 | long=47.5179 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia=Hotel Carlton Madagascar | wikidata=Q18153481 | lastedit=2019-09-28 | content=This hotel is a member hotel of Summit Hotels & Resorts. It is a great hotel by European standards. The Carlton has 2 restaurants (Cafe Charly is reportedly excellent), 2 bars and an internet cafe, some rooms have nice views of the lake, and it is near the football (soccer) stadium. 170 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Colbert | alt= | url=https://www.hotel-restaurant-colbert.com/ | email= | address= | lat=-18.9109 | long=47.5255 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=French-run, and close to the government ministries. Aid workers and French government folks will customarily stay there. There are old and new wings, the old wing is certainly inferior to the Carlton, the new wing on a par or better. The Colbert has a lovely spa, two restaurants and a coffee shop/patisserie. The efficient and knowledgeable staff will help you navigate the challenges of the city. 140 rooms. }} ==Stay safe== * Beware of dogs! Tana is loaded with stray dogs, some of whom will occasionally harass passers-by for scraps or bark, growl and chase humans off their territory. These animals also leave their marks behind… many locals refer to Tana as "Antaybe" (place of much poop). * Beggars can also be a nuisance, especially groups of children. A polite but firm "Non, merci" or "Tsy misy (tsee meesh)" (add "Tompoko (toom-pook)" when speaking to anyone older than you) should do the trick. If not, shout "Mandehana! (man-day-han)" (Go Away!). Try to avoid handing out cash, candy or trinkets to children, it simply encourages more begging. * Be wary of groups of older children begging in the centre, they may try and snatch exposed jewellery or bags. * Don't be alarmed by taxis or vehicles with holes in the floor, springs poking out of the seats, missing mirrors or broken windows. Malagasy motor vehicles may not be much to look at and not much fun to ride in, but for the most part they run well and the engines are well-maintained. * In daylight hours you should be fine, as long as you don't carry too many valuables. Use common sense. ==Cope== ===Embassies and consulates=== * {{flag|Egypt}} {{listing | name=Egypt | url= | email= | address=LOT MD 378 Ambalatokanana Mandrosoa Ivato | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+261 20-22-454-99 | tollfree= | fax=+261 20-22-453-79 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Greece}} {{listing | name=Greece | url= | email= | address=Β.P. 1442, Antananarivo, Madagascar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+261 20-22-394-40 | tollfree= | fax=+261 20-22-394-44 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | alt= | url=http://www.mg.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_fr/index.html | email= | address=Villa Chrysantheme III, Ambohijatovo-Analamahitsy | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+261 20-22-493-57 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Romania}} {{listing | name=Romania | alt= | url= | email=diplomatie.ro@gmail.com | address=Immeuble Regus Batiment A1 Explorer Business Park, Village des Jeux Ankorondrano | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+261 202 25 12 12, +261 202 25 12 22 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Honorary Consulate (Does not provide consular services. Instead, Romanian citizens in need of assistance should contact the embassy in [[Pretoria]], South Africa or the embassy of another [[European Union]] member state.). }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | alt= | url=https://mg.usembassy.gov/ | email= | address=Lot 207 A, Point Liberty, Andranoro, Antehiroka | lat=-18.85258 | long=47.47846 | directions= | phone=+261 20 23 480 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Go next== Travel out of the capital is by two modes: road or air. As of 2017 there is no passenger rail service from the capital. Road transport is by bus to limited destinations, taxi-brousse (shared taxi) to a variety of destinations or by car rental (usually with driver). Although travel by taxi-brousse is guaranteed to try one's patience and sanity, there is quite possibly no better way to meet and interact with the locals and experience Madagascar as the Malagasy do. Air travel is the recommended method, due to the poor state of many roads, and Antananarivo is the hub city for the national carrier Madagascar Airlines. Recommended next stops are [[Morondava]] and [[Nosy Be]]. {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Antananarivo Province}} {{geo|-18.91|47.52}} di0y2ri0i3zi0qf3iht7kcgohbl5oew 0 1746 5091168 5055534 2025-07-11T02:59:08Z DaGizza 162256 /* Eat */ 5091168 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|unesco=yes}} The [[Eritrea]]n capital of '''Asmara''' is a vibrant mix of Italian and African architecture and culture. It is by far the biggest and most important city of Eritrea and not just the administration center of the country but also the cultural center and the place where every tourist will arrive to the country. ==Understand== Electric power is not available throughout the day, although it depends a lot in which part of the city you are and also in which season. In the central part there is power mainly between afternoon and the early morning. So you should charge your phone and camera when you are able to. Power cuts are common, specially in the rainy season so you might be without power for some days in some cases. The internet connection is very slow. Don't expect to be able to do more than receiving and sending emails. But there are many internet cafes where you can buy a ticket to use the wifi (~Nkf 20 per hour). === History === Founded in the 12th century by a union of villages trying to protect themselves from bandits, Asmara has grown to become a bustling city of over half a million people. Over its history, the city has endured the rule of various empires and countries, including the [[Italy|Italian Empire]] from the late 19th century, the British from after [[World War II in Africa|World War II]] and [[Ethiopia]] from 1950. After a long and bloody war with Ethiopia, Asmara was finally liberated in 1991 and became the capital of a country which had not had self-rule for two centuries. Today, it is difficult to walk down a street in downtown Asmara and not see an old Italian building. In the early 1930s, Mussolini, the Italian dictator, injected huge amounts of funds into the city with the goal of making it the centre of a second Roman Empire that spanned [[Africa]]. Architects were only limited by their imagination, and practically the entire city centre was rebuilt. Not only were cathedrals built in ancient-Romanesque style, but also numerous offices influenced by the architectural movements of cubism and futurism. === Climate === {{Climate| units = Metric | janhigh =23 | febhigh =24 | marhigh =25 | aprhigh =25 | mayhigh =26 | junhigh =26 | julhigh =22 | aughigh =21 | sephigh =24 | octhigh =22 | novhigh =22 | dechigh =22 | janlow =6 | feblow =7 | marlow =9 | aprlow =10 | maylow =11 | junlow =12 | jullow =12 | auglow =12 | seplow =10 | octlow =9 | novlow =8 | declow =7 | janprecip =1 | febprecip =3 | marprecip =12 | aprprecip =30 | mayprecip =42 | junprecip =37 | julprecip =174 | augprecip =145 | sepprecip =25 | octprecip =7 | novprecip =21 | decprecip =4 }} The dry season from December to April is distinguished by the terrain of red-brown, rusty, beige or black rubble surrounding the city, resembling photos from Mars. The vegetation consists largely of shrubbery, eucalyptus, aloes, cacti and the odd explosively colorful specs of bougainville, jacaranda or other ornamental plants. The rainy season between May and September (hopefully) brings torrents of rain and needed nourishment to the land, which transforms itself from lunar/marsian-esque to verdant and grassy in the post-rain months of August to October. Regardless of when you go, temperatures in Asmara rarely rise above a comfortable dry 30° C in the sun. The capital is known for its lovely climate. There is very little humidity in the air so the biggest variations in temperatures occur between night and day, or whether one is standing in the sun or in the shade, not between seasons. Between December and February, it can get very cold at night and in the morning, it can even drop a few degrees below 0° C. Due to lack of heating and insulation in Asmara, it is important to bring proper clothes. Rains only last a few hours at a time and it all dries up quickly enough, although the occasional flash flood is not uncommon during the rainy season. ==Get in== If you are entering the country without a visa, as a holder of an Eritrean ID card in combination with a foreign passport, you are required to register with the Immigration and Nationality office in Asmara within seven business days of entry into the country. === By plane === * {{go | name=Asmara International Airport | alt={{IATA|ASM}} | url= | email= | address= | lat=15.285 | long=38.901667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Asmara International Airport | image=AsmaraInternationalAirport.jpg | wikidata=Q522898 | lastedit=2023-07-20 | content=As of 2023, the national carrier Eritrea Airlines flies to Addis Ababa, Cairo, Jeddah and Khartoum. Other airlines also fly to Dubai and Istanbul. There are no scheduled domestic flights in Eritrea. }} ==Get around== {{mapframe|zoom=12}} [[File:Asmara Main Street.jpeg|thumb|300px|Asmara main street, Harnet Avenue]] [[File:Asmara, impianto di distribuzione carburanti tamoil, già agip 03.JPG|thumb|300px|A bus stop in Asmara]] [[File:Asmara, beirut street.JPG|thumb|300px|A street in Asmara]] Asmara has 10 downtown bus-lines on distinctive '''Red Mercedes Benz buses''', with a sign in the front saying where they're headed (oftentimes in Latin script). The bus stops are easily identifiable (there are signs and an obvious shelter with a bench), but the buses stop running quite early in the evening (about 19:00). They run on 15-30 minute intervals during the day (every day), but there is no fixed or published schedule. The roads get pretty jammed at rush hours (in the morning, midday and around 16:00). The fare is about Nkf 2, and the entrance is in the back where one buys the ticket. It is not necessary to have exact change, but one should try to pay in lower denominations. Line number 1 goes between the airport, 3 km south of the city, and the former zoo in Biet Ghiorghis, 2 km (1 mi) east of the city on the eastern escarpment (the windy road to the Red Sea begins after Biet Ghirogis). Number 1 also passes through the main streets in downtown Asmara (Independence and Martyrs Avenues). All bus lines that begin with 2 (e.g. 21, 22), run between the marketplace downtown and the surrounding villages, but there are only a few a day. Therefore, plan to leave early in order to be able to return the same day. Only the locals know the schedule (through word of mouth). If you're lucky one of them speaks English and will be very helpful. Some villages like Embaderho and Tselot are well worth visiting for their scenery and traditional lifestyle. There also '''white minibus'''-lines running on the main streets of the city, which run on fixed routes but without fixed stops or signs. They usually stop at the bus stops, but you still have to hail them when you see them, just like a cab. Before boarding, ask them where they're headed, unless the ticket-boy (called ''fottorino'') doesn't beat you to it by announcing it loudly. Then, let them know when you want to get off ("Stop!" is a universally understood command). Costs Nkf 2. Finally there are the '''yellow taxis''', most of which also run on fixed routes on the main streets like the white minivans. They have a similar system to the minivans, and the fare is Nkf 5. You'll most likely be sharing the ride with 3 other people. Since some cabs do not use fixed routes, some will take you personally to where you want to go. These taxis are called ''contract taxis'', and you will have to negotiate the price with the driver. The price depends on how far you're travelling, but most contract drivers charge, at a minimum, Nkf 70. These cabs usually wait outside the airport when a plane is coming in, the city's main hotels (Asmara Palace Hotel, Nyala, Ambassador etc.), the road to the right of the main cathedral downtown and other obvious spots. They can also be hailed on any street, but many cabs are on a fixed route with passengers already in them. '''Renting a car''' is insanely expensive and fuel prices are higher than in Europe. Renting a cab to drive you around town is also quite expensive, but affordable. Be prepared to pay Nkf 3000 - 6000 for a weekend with a driver. It is perhaps better to take the bus or contact one of the national tour agencies (ask at the information desk at the airport upon arrival). ==See== [[File:Roma theater Eritrea , Asmara.jpg|thumb|300px|Italian Art Deco-style "Roma Theater"]] [[File:Asmara, teatro d'opera, 03.JPG|thumb|300px|Opera Theater (Teatro d'opera)]] Asmara's main attraction is its [[World Heritage list]]ed '''colonial Italian architecture'''. The palm-lined main street "Harnet Avenue" is colloquially referred to as "Kombishtato" (a creole of the neighbourhood's original name: '''Campo Cintato''') meaning fenced area. It is full of cafés, bars, shops and old cinemas, and it makes for a nice mile long stroll between the eastern end of this avenue where the "half" stadium is (you'll know when you see half a bleacher) and the western end where the Government palace is. Asmara's colourful and bustling marketplace lies north of the Catholic cathedral. It's a great place to learn how to [[haggle]] and buy some souvenirs. From the café on the top floor of the '''Nyala Hotel''', one has a great view of the city while enjoying a nice well-chilled beer. The beer is exceptionally good in Asmara, aptly called "Asmara Beer". Behind the hotel in the quieter Maryam Gmbi Street is the '''National Museum'''. It's a modest museum well worth visiting with a collection of artifacts spanning over five millennia of the land's history (the museum is closed on Wednesdays and open all other days between 08:00 and 11:00 and 15:00 and 17:00). On the Massawa Road in the outskirts of the city you can see the spectacular scenery of the eastern escarpment. There was a zoo there but it closed many years ago. Further down the road, one reaches Bar Durfo, a bar and café perched on a cliff overlooking the dramatic precipice of the Asmara - Massawa highway. You will need a car or taxi to get beyond the last stop of the No. 1 bus, Biet Ghiorghis, to Bar Durfo. There are more places to see the dramatic highland landscape or the eastern escarpment. Additionally, one can see a traditional Eritrean highland village in the village of '''Tselot''' (which means 'prayer' and is also famous for being the President's village). Tselot lies about 7 km south east of the city center and is served by the red city bus line No. 28 departing from the square in front of the main entrance of the orthodox cathedral '''Enda Maryam'''. You should leave as early as possible because there are only a couple of buses per day so you have to make sure you have a way to get back. The rural highland lifestyle in Tselot resembles Biblical times: stone houses (Hidmo), small plots, ancient temples (both Christian and Muslim), people farming and herding with traditional means using little technology, transporting their goods (as well as themselves) on mule and camel back. Within walking distance of the village, is the '''Martyrs National Park''', inaugurated in 2000. It is a mountainous forest and wildlife reserve at the ridge of the highland plateau. The landscape consists of an eerily quiet semi-arid plain in a valley, an extension of the highland plateau, interrupted by the dramatic chasm of the eastern ridge which the village center straddles. The views and scenery are spectacular. The highest viewpoint features chasms, gorges and mountaintops bathed by a sea of clouds, which gives one the impression of standing "above the clouds". * {{listing | type=see | name=Great Mosque of Asmara | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=15.338985 | long=38.941605 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Great Mosque of Asmara | wikidata=Q11957212 | lastedit=2020-01-04 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=National Museum of Eritrea | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=15.333333 | long=38.927222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Museum of Eritrea | wikidata=Q1968666 | lastedit=2020-01-04 | content= }} === Churches === * {{see | name=Church of Our Lady of the Rosary | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2061047 | lastedit=2022-02-19 | content=Often just referred to as "the cathedral", this former Roman Catholic church built in the early 1920s in a Lombard Romanesque style. With the decline of Italians in Eritrea after the Second World War its significance decreed significantly. It stopped being a cathedral in 1975 and from 1995 and onwards it's a parish in the Eritrean Catholic church. }} * {{see | name=Enda Mariam Cathedral | alt=ቤተ-ክርስትያን እንዳ ማርያም | url= | email= | address=Arbate Asmara St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1972822 | lastedit=2022-02-19 | content=Eritrean Orthodox church, built in 1938. }} ==Do== If you are in Asmara for a short stay, the best thing to do after you're done sightseeing in this city is to head for the outskirts where the scenery is stunning at the very least. Unless you come from a high altitude area yourself, you may need a couple of days of strolling in Asmara to get your body used to the thin dry air at 2,300 m. Bring lots of sunscreen lotion but also a sweater as it can get really chilly not only at night but even when standing in the shade (temperatures can vary greatly on different sides of the same street depending on the position of the sun). The sun shines very bright throughout the day in Africa, especially so in Asmara where clouds are rare, so unless you enjoy squinting, bring UV blocking shades. If you like '''hiking, rock climbing and mountainbiking''', the above mentioned areas outside of town are excellent places to do so, but bring your own gear (including bike) as there are no rental bikes and a very limited supply of safety equipment (shoes, ropes, etc.) in Asmara. However, tents and mosquito nets are readily available at an affordable price in the marketplace downtown. Also '''consult the locals and bring a guide''', because it is good to have someone familiar with the place who speaks the local language in case of an accident or any other eventuality (like what is legal and not legal). For example, '''taking pictures around any government installation or authority (police, airport, ministries etc.) is strictly forbidden''', and your guide can help you get out of such sticky situations. Finally, take time to savor some good food in Asmara. Drinking fresh fruit juices or eating ice cream might be unsafe, but it seems like the situation improved a lot, a good spot for fresh juice is Wintana Fast Food, at ''Meda Eritrea'' square. Regarding drinking water you should definitely stick to bottled drinks. If you need fast internet go to Asmara Palace- Nkf 100 per hour. There is reported to find an other good internet café few hundred meters west of Nakfa house / Fiat Tagliero. If you start to miss good old American candy and Soda, Wikianos Super-market has all the stuff you need. If you want to take them Photo's - Photo Zula If you want to get a nice Eritrean pendant Gold silver etc. around the main mosque there is a bunch of Jewellery shops. If you need a hair cut - there is two barbershops that are bomb - one in Mai-Temenai beside Ghirmai Hotel on Menegedi Keren. The other one is in Shuk by the bus stop. The ones in Mai-Temenai were dope! Clubs: Expo - Benifer and Berhe Aiba were the two main spots . If you want like bahlawi experience check out Hidmona- the food there is bomb too. * {{do | name=Asmara Theatre | alt=Teatro di Asmara | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1652119 | lastedit=2022-02-19 | content=A historic theater, built in 1918. The architectural style is a combination of Romanesque Revival and neoclassicism. Unfortunately the theater is not well-used, however there is a café in the building to soak in its atmosphere. }} ==Buy== Gold and silver jewellery is cheap in Asmara and is definitely a bargain by world standards. So are frankincense and myrrh. Otherwise most of the souvenirs bought by tourists are the local home-spun and gold-thread embroidered cotton garments, traditional goat-skin rugs, olivewood carvings, ceramic coffee-pots and other traditional knick-knacks; all of which are found at the marketplace. ==Eat== [[File:Beyaynetu Enjera.jpg|thumbnail|Enjera is eaten in Asmara with many side dishes]] * {{eat | name=Bar Zilli | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sematat Ave | lat=15.3317 | long=38.9295 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q106091223 | lastedit=2022-02-19 | content=Eritrean restaurant housed in one of the most iconic colonial Art Deco buildings. }} * {{eat | name=Albergo Italia | alt= | url= | email= | address=for authentic Italian food | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-04-30 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Casa Degli Italiani | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-04-30 | content=outdoor setting }} * {{eat | name=Alba Bistro | alt= | url= | email= | address=Opp. Post Office | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-04-30 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Spaghetti and Pizza House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Harnet Avenue | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-04-30 | content=a great choice of pizza and pasta dishes as well as its signature Chilli red snapper. }} * {{eat | name=Rooftop Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=for Asian food. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-04-30 | content= }} For traditional food (injera), you have many options, for example Hamassien Restaurant on Seraye Street. If you are looking for cheaper options than restaurants you should try ''fast food'' restaurants or ''snack bars''. They have not just burger but also Eritrean food like ''fuul'', ''silsi'', ''salata'', ''fata'' and others. It consists in bread rolls with a tasty sauce. Just try different ones and pick your favourite. If you miss Chinese food and Indian food. Beside Sunshine hotel in Tiravolo there is a government building to the left. It's an embassy or Eritrean government building. Hop in the elevator go to the 5th floor. Its called Grassroots cafe. Also Bar Bereket if you want Kitcha fit-fit and shai. If you want Seafood there is Paradiso restaurant in Mai-temenai (sadly seafood sucks in Asmara). You got to go to Cherhi in Abashawel and just enjoy the 360-degree view of Asmara and get your self a latte or espresso. If you want ice cream and don't want to be sick, go to the ''Gelateria da Fortuna'', lead by an Italian. Ice cream is definitely not cheap here but tastes as good as in Italy. It is a hundred meters south east of Mai Jah Jah. If you eat ice cream anywhere else in Asmara you will get the runs. If you want good pastries and coffee and tea just stroll around the center and pick any of the cafés, there are a lot of them in Harnet Avenue and Sematat Avenue. Near Edaga Ekli there is a place called Pharmacy Hamassien. ==Drink== Eritrea is not a big wine country, even though it used to have a wine-making tradition during the colonial period. On the other hand Eritrea, is a big beer-drinking country, and the '''Eritrean beer''' is definitely a good one. There is only one brewery in the country (Asmara Beer) producing only one type of beer (Pilsener), that's why they don't even need to put a label on the bottle. Asmara Beer is great, quenches your thirsty throat and has a good taste. It has around 5% alcohol per volume and a nice hop flavour in the well known bottle. Enjoy! Nightlife in Asmara is often considered quieter than most other country capitals, but there are a good range of local bars. Prostitution is legal and rife. * {{drink | name=Bar Alfa Romeo | alt= | url= | email= | address=close to Alfa Romeo | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-09-06 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Peacock Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=close to Alfa Romeo | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-09-06 | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Green Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=at Asmara Palace Hotel | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-04-30 | content=Discos on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights. }} * {{drink | name=Hdmona Restaurant and Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Expo Grounds | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Zara Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=near the Blue Bird restaurant | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-04-30 | content=Popular haunt with expats. }} ==Stay safe== Asmara is an extremely safe city, safe enough for a stroll in the middle of the night. Most people are genuinely friendly, without wanting anything in exchange, beggary and "hustling" is not as common as in most other third world countries and neither is tourism. However, homosexuality is illegal and "homosexual activity" can lead to imprisonment; the Eritrean penal system is opaque and the penalties are unclear. ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Albergo Italia | alt= | url=http://www.albergoitaliaasmara.com | email= | address=Nakfa Avenue, 13 | lat=15.338251 | long=38.935202 | directions=Next to the central post office | phone=+291 1 120740 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Boutique hotel situated in a turn-of-the-century building. }} * {{sleep | name=Asmara Palace Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.hotelasmarapalace.com/ | email= | address= | lat=15.31419 | long=38.91231 | directions= | phone=+291 1 153700 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Formerly the Intercontinental Hotel, out by the airport. The odd spaceship-looking hotel probably has the comfiest beds. But quite far from the city centre and with a heafty price. }} * {{sleep | name=Africa Pension | alt= | url= | email= | address=Keskesse Street, across from Italian Embassy | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+291 1 121 436 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Nyala Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Martyrs Avenue | lat=15.331064 | long=38.928925 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-01-04 | content=Located in the city's highest building. }} *'''Embasoira Hotel''', behind Independence Avenue (on the east side). *'''Hamassien Hotel''', right next door to the Embasoira. The Swiss-cottage-looking building. *'''Sunshine Hotel''', near the Roof Garden restaurant. *'''Selam Hotel''', a few blocks away from the Presidential Palace and the National Museum and has a nice garden. *'''The Crystal Hotel''' behind Cinema Roma, similar to the Sunshine Hotel. *'''Asmara Central Hotel''', good value, directly beside Harnet Avenue in Mata Street ==Cope== [[File:Asmara, ufficio postale, interno 02.JPG|thumb|300px|Asmara post Office]] ===Embassies=== * {{flag|Greece}} {{listing | name=Greece | url= | email= | address=P.O. Box 4173 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+291 1 12-19-76 | tollfree= | fax=+291 1 12-20-17 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | alt= | url=https://er.usembassy.gov/ | email= | address=179 Ala St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+291 1 12-00-04 | tollfree= | fax=+291 1 12-75-84 | hours=M-Th 08:00-18:00, F 08:00-12:00 | price= | content= }} ==Go next== To leave Asmara '''to go anywhere else in the country you need a traveler's permit''' which can be obtained from the Ministry of Immigration and Nationality opposite the Cathedral compound on Harnet Av. downtown. If you intend to leave by Air, see the "Getting In" section. In 2018 there are no domestic flight routes as of date. There are roads heading in 4 directions from Asmara. There might always be '''military-police roadblocks (called "blocco" locally)''' where you will be checked for your ID and traveller's permit. Always carry these or certified copies of these with you. There are fixed bloccos and there are also mobile and random checkpoints on the roads both inside and outside the limits of nearly all towns and communities in Eritrea. So you might be asked more than once for your papers. Around Asmara there were no fixed bloccos in 2017. Formerly the blocco for the road towards the coast was placed past the village of Durfo and was called "blocco Batsi" (Batsi is another name for Massawa). The blocco for the road heading west towards the country's second largest town [[Keren]] and the western lowlands (bordering Sudan) was called "blocco Keren" and the blocco for the two roads heading south was called "blocco Godaeif" (Asmara's southernmost suburb) which later divides at a fork with one road towards the southwestern highlands and the Mereb river border crossing (now closed) to Ethiopia and the other road towards the southeastern highlands and the "Zalambessa" border crossing to Ethiopia (closed). Buses are the main means of transport in Eritrea other than camelback or your own car. Buses run to all main towns and villages from Asmara, some several times a day, others only once a day or a couple of times a week, requiring you to sleepover for one or more nights there or even on the way, before returning. '''Buses don't run after dusk''' because of road safety (Eritrea is a very mountainous country). Fog and mist can severely delay traffic as well. Renting a car or chartering a taxi is possible in Eritrea, but both cost about the same and are extremely expensive, as is the price of fuel. There is one narrow-gauge train line, from Asmara to Massawa, but it is driven by a slow steam-engine which only runs for chartered tours. {{usablecity}} {{isPartOf|Eritrea}} {{geo|15.333333|38.933333}} evck2b1ye6kwo5lzg8ozvvnihlystq9 0 1808 5091220 5088996 2025-07-11T07:08:26Z DaGizza 162256 /* Orientation */ 5091220 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Athens Banner.jpg|disambig=yes|unesco=yes}} '''Athens''' ([[Greek phrasebook|Greek]]: Αθήνα, ''Athína''), is the capital city of [[Greece]] with a metropolitan population of 3.15 million inhabitants (2025). It was a major cultural, political and religious centre of [[Classical Greece]], and therefore remains for many an important site within the history of Western civilization. It is a place where modern Greek culture, business and social life flourishes amidst ancient monuments. Athens has turned into a large and bustling city, but as a result it also suffers from congestion, pollution, and poverty. <!-- ==Districts== * The '''Acropolis'''— The ancient "high city" of Athens, crowned by marble temples sacred to the city's goddess Athena. * '''Plaka, Monastiraki and Thissio'''— Charming historic districts at the foot of the Acropolis, with restored 19th-century neoclassical homes, pedestrianized streets, shops and restaurants, and picturesque ruins from the city's Roman era. * '''Kifissia'''— The northern part of Athens, rarely visited by tourists. * '''Nea Smyrni'''— The southern part of Athens, it is a modern European district. * '''Kolonaki'''— Upscale residential area with many cafes, boutiques and galleries. * '''Metaxourgeio'''— A unique neighbourhood in the historic center of Athens, which has become a bohemian enclave and a haven for art and culture. As part of the area's continual transformation, in 2010 the principal gallery of the city, the Municipal Gallery, was relocated to Avdi Square, which is the main square of the area. Avdi Square is a large, public space that is well suited to artistic expression of all kinds. * '''Omonia and Exarheia'''— Formerly a seedy district, it is now home to Greece's students, anarchists and the National Archaeological Museum, somewhat revitalized by the metro. * '''Pangrati and Mets'''— These adjoining pleasant residential neighbourhoods south of Lycabettos and east of the National Garden are rarely frequented by tourists, but they do include a few hotels and a number of good traditional tavernas. * '''[[Piraeus]]'''— The ancient port of Athens, Piraeus is today an independent, heavily industrial municipality southwest of Athens, whose modern-day port serves almost all of Attica's ferry connections to Crete and the Aegean Islands. * '''Psiri'''— Former industrial district, now full of trendy and alternative restaurants, cafés, bars, small luxury hotels and shops. * '''Syntagma Square''' (''Plateia Syntagmatos'')— Dominated by the old Royal Palace, Syntagma Square is the business district of Athens, complete with major hotels, banks, restaurants and airline offices. * '''Zografou'''— Residential district on the slopes of Imitos, many university buildings are here, and there are several quirky bars and tavernas dotted around. --> ==Understand== [[File:Plaka1.JPG|thumb|250px|Old Athens]] {{seealso|Ancient Greece|Greek mythology}} According to mythology, the Greek Gods Poseidon and Athena wanted to claim the city for their own. To persuade the people to accept them, they granted gifts. Poseidon struck his spear into the ground and produced running water. Athena gave the city olive trees - which provide food and economic prosperity through trade. The people were then asked to vote for the Gods, and Athena won by a single vote - resulting in the city bearing her name. The first pre-historic settlements were constructed in 3000 BCE around the hill of Acropolis. According to legend the King of Athens, Theseus, unified the ten tribes of early Athens into one kingdom in around 1230 BCE. This process of synoikismos – bringing together in one home – created the largest and wealthiest state on the Greek mainland, but it also created a larger class of people excluded from political life by the nobility. By the 7th century BCE, social unrest had become widespread, and the Areopagus appointed Draco to draft a strict new law code (hence "draconian"). Still, the Draconian laws were a big advancement, as they codified crime and punishment unlike the previous arbitrary judgments of the rulers. When Draco's system failed, they appointed Solon, with a mandate to create a new constitution (594 BCE). This was the great beginning of a new social revolution, which was the result of the democracy under Cleisthenes (508 BCE). When Roman historians wrote the history of their own republic, they fudged the date so that their republic would be older than Athenian democracy, but today's scholarly consensus is that Rome "got inspiration" from the Greeks. [[File:Evzones marching, Athens, Greece.jpg|thumb|Evzones marching, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier]] In the 5th century BCE, Athens reached the peak of its fame. It was the most powerful Greek city-state, and the center of Greek cultural life, claiming many important cultural advances within European history. Fields of study like science, philosophy, history, and medicine were advanced by Athenian scholars in the timeframe between 480 (the battle of Salamis) and 343 (when Aristotle went to Macedonia to assume teaching duties to Alexander the royal heir), known as Athens' "golden age" - although political dominance came to an end after the Peloponnesian War (431-404 BCE), most famous because of its ''History'' written by the Athenian general and scholar Thucydides, the "Father of Scientific History". Later on, Athens became part of the [[Alexander the Great|Macedonian empire under Alexander]], and still later part of the [[Roman Empire]]. While it was decreasingly politically significant, its intellectual reputation gave it a special status, until, in the year 529 CE, Emperor Justinian issued an edict imposing a perpetual silence on all its schools, and the empire's intellectual center moved to [[Istanbul|Constantinople]]. Athens was thriving and prosperous during the Crusades, actually benefiting from the Italian trade during this period. However, this fruitful period was short-lived, as Greece suffered badly under the [[Ottoman Empire]], only to recover in the 19th century as the capital of independent Greece. In modern times, the Athens urban area has grown to a population of 3.15 million. ===Modern Olympic Games=== Athens hosted the 2004 Summer Olympic Games. The entire urban area of Athens underwent major lasting changes that have improved the quality of life for visitors and residents alike. Aside from the new transportation infrastructure that was completed in time for the 2004 Olympics (from new freeways to light rail systems), the city's historic center underwent serious renovation. Most notable among the city's facelift projects are the ''Unification of Archaeological Sites'' (which connects the city's classical-era ruins and monuments to each other through a network of pleasant pedestrianized streets) and the restoration of the picturesque neoclassical ''Thissio'' and ''Pláka'' districts. The men's and women's shot put competition was held at the restored stadium of [[Olympia (Greece)|Olympia]], where the ancient Olympic Games took place from 776 BCE to 394 CE. This was the first time in history that women athletes competed in this venue. It is a lengthy day trip from Athens to visit Olympia, but quite interesting. [[File:National observatory Athens Greece.jpg|thumb|The National Observatory as seen from the Acropolis]] ===Architecture=== Athens was just a small provincial city when it was chosen in the 1830s to serve as the national capital of the modern Greek State. Although it had a prestigious past, the city's political, economic and cultural importance had declined over the centuries, leaving behind only its classical ruins as a reminder of better times. With the decision to move the national capital from Nafplio to Athens, architects and city planners were hired to build a new city next to the classical ruins, with grand neoclassical homes and public buildings, large city squares, green spaces, and wide avenues, making a conscious, decisive turn from the city's Ottoman past. The city regained its importance in Greek civilization, and by 1900 had evolved into a very attractive cosmopolitan city, with abundant neoclassical architecture harking to the nation's past. The 20th century however, marked the rapid development of Athens. The city suffered minor damage during World War II, and suffered extensive urban planning in the decades that followed, as the nation rapidly industrialized and urbanized. In the 1960s and 1970s, many 19th century neoclassical buildings, often small and private, were demolished to make way for office buildings, often designed by great Greek architects. The city also expanded outward through rash development, particularly towards the west, as its population grew by absorbing job-seekers from the provinces. With the onset of the automobile, public officials reduced the city's public transportation services without foreseeing the traffic gridlock and smog that would menace the city by the 1980s. By the late 1980s and early 1990s, the city's reality led to a rude awakening among local and national officials and, coupled with the country's new found remarkable prosperity, large scale projects began to slowly regenerate the city and undo some of the damage of previous decades. Over the course of the next 15 years, money was poured into new transportation infrastructure projects, the restoration of surviving neoclassical buildings, the gentrification of the city's historical center and the renovation of many former industrial areas and the city's coastline. The restoration of charming neoclassical buildings in the city's historical center has been accompanied by the construction of attractive post-modern buildings in newer districts; both of which have begun to improve the aesthetic essence of the city. Athens today is ever evolving, forging a new identity for the 21st century. ===Climate=== {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = 12 | febhigh = 13 | marhigh = 16 | aprhigh = 20 | mayhigh = 26 | junhigh = 31 | julhigh = 33 | aughigh = 33 | sephigh = 29 | octhigh = 23 | novhigh = 18 | dechigh = 14 | janlow = 5 | feblow = 5 | marlow = 7 | aprlow = 10 | maylow = 14 | junlow = 18 | jullow = 21 | auglow = 21 | seplow = 17 | octlow = 13 | novlow = 10 | declow = 7 | janprecip = 57 | febprecip = 47 | marprecip = 41 | aprprecip = 31 | mayprecip = 23 | junprecip = 11 | julprecip = 6 | augprecip = 6 | sepprecip = 14 | octprecip = 53 | novprecip = 68 | decprecip = 69 | description = }} Spring and late autumn are the best times to visit Athens. Summer can be extremely hot and dry during heatwaves, but this rarely happens. Winter is definitely low season, with the occasional rainy or snowy day, but also an ideal time to save money while enjoying the city without countless other tourists. Whilst peak traffic hour can be a bit smoggy on the main roads, on most sunny days the skies are azure blue. The main reason attributed for the pollution of Athens is because the city is enclosed by mountains in a basin which does not allow the smog to leave. The government's ban on diesel vehicles within Athens and the early 1990s initiatives to improve car emissions have greatly contributed to better atmospheric conditions in the basin. ===Orientation=== [[File:Hellenic Parliament from high above.jpg|thumb|right|Hellenic Parliament by sunset.]] The sprawling city is bounded on three sides by Mt. Ymettos, Mt. Parnitha and Mt. Pendeli; whilst inside Athens are twelve hills [the seven historical are: Acropolis, Areopagus, Hill of Philopappus, Observatory Hill (Muses Hill), Pnyx, Lycabettus, Tourkovounia (Anchesmus)], the Acropolis and Lykavittos being the most prominent. These hills provide a refuge from the noise and commotion of the crowded city streets, offering amazing views down to Saronic Gulf, Athens' boundary with the Aegean Sea on its southern side. The streets of Athens (signposted in Greek and English) now melt imperceptibly into [[Piraeus]], the city's ancient, and still bustling, port. Places of interest to travellers can be found within a relatively small area surrounding the city centre at Syntagma Square (''Plateia Syntagmatos''). This epicentre is surrounded by the districts of the Plaka to the south, Monastiraki to the west, Kolonaki to the east and Omonia to the north. Further afield is the port of Athens, the Piraeus. The '''Acropolis''' is the ancient high city of Athens, a prominent plateaued rock perched high above the modern city with commanding views and an amazing array of ancient architecture, mostly from the Classical period of Ancient Greece, the most famous of which is the Parthenon. A visit to Athens is not complete without visiting the Acropolis; hundreds of tourists each day accordingly make the pilgrimage. Gentrified during the 1990s and now very popular with tourists, '''Plaka''' is a charming historic district at the foot of the Acropolis, with its restored 19th-century neoclassical homes, pedestrianized streets, shops and restaurants, and picturesque ruins from the city's Roman era. '''Thissio''', to the west side of the Acropolis, is very similar and now houses many restaurants and cafes. Between the two is '''Monastiraki''', a very bohemian district increasingly popular with tourists, with stores selling a variety of items including antiques, cookware, souvenirs, arts and crafts, movie posters, punk culture, funky clothing, and pretty much anything you can think of. Another part of Plaka is '''Anafiotika''' and is on the northernmost place. There you will find the first university of Athens before it was relocated in central Athens. It's an oasis of calm and quietness, and there are many green spaces which are part of the green space of Acropolis. Plaka's boundaries are not precisely defined. Clear borders are the Ancient Agora and Plateia Monastiraki on the west, the Acropolis and Dhionysiou Areopayitou street on the south, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Leoforos Amalias on the south-east, and the west part of Mitropoleos street, up to the cathedral on the north (but Mitropoleos street and Leoforos Amalias, though boundaries, shouldn't be considered part of Plaka, since they have a modern and fairly non-descript atmosphere). The north-eastern and eastern boundaries are a bit less well defined, but if you're south of Apollonos street and west of Nikis street you'll probably feel like you're still in Plaka. Syntagma Square is named after the Greek constitution (''syntagma'') that was proclaimed from the balcony of the royal palace that overlooks the square on 3 September 1843. The former palace has housed the Greek parliament since 1935. Syntagma Square is a good point from which to begin your orientation in the city, and has been beautified within the last few years ago, and the manic Athenian traffic has been re-routed. it contains cafes, restaurants, fast food outlets, a new metro stop, airline offices.. The square serves as an occasional rallying place for demonstrations and public celebrations. '''Omonia Square''' (''Plateia Omonias'') is the centre of Athens, and is composed of the actual square together with the surrounding streets, open areas and assemblage of grand buildings that include banks and offices. The neighbouring area of '''Exarcheia''' (Εξάρχεια) to the north, dominated by the Athens Polytechnic and its famous band of anarchists, is a bohemian district with lots of bars and clubs visited by students, intellectuals and people who are into alternative culture. '''Kolonaki''' is near Lykavittos Hill. The district's borders are not very sharply defined; it covers the south and southeast slopes of Lykavettos Hill north of Vassilisis Sofias Avenue. Kolonaki is the posh area of central Athens. Traditionally the home of the in-town rich, it's the location of a number of embassies and several prominent archaeological schools, including The '''[https://www.ascsa.edu.gr/ American School]''' and The '''[https://www.bsa.ac.uk/ British School]'''. It also has the city's greatest concentration of trendy fashion boutiques, and many, mostly upscale, cafes, bars and restaurants. ==Get in== ===By plane=== Athens airport is a major hub in the Aegean, Balkan and East Mediterranean regions. American, Air Canada, Air Transat, Delta, Emirates, Norwegian Air Shuttle and United maintain non-stop flights from North America (some are only seasonal), while a large number of European carriers fly direct into Athens. Low cost direct flights from Berlin are scoot airline and Ryan air. {{listing | type=go | name=Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport | alt={{IATA|ATH}} | url=https://www.aia.gr/traveler/ | email= | address= | lat=37.93607 | long=23.94463 | directions={{km|27}} east of the city centre near the suburb of [[Spáta]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Athens International Airport | wikidata=Q211734 |lastedit=2022-07-13| content=Opened in 2001 as part of the infrastructure improvements in preparation for the Olympics, and is now one of the more attractive and efficient major European airports, though some old Athenian hands say they miss the messy atmosphere of the old Hellenikon. The airport has the usual array of food stands, duty-free shops, lounges, and other airport services. Free Wi-Fi used to be time-limited, but now is free to use for unlimited time. Luggage storage, run by [http://pacifictravel.gr/ Pacific Travel], can be found in the end of left-hand wing, arrivals level. Storage time varies from 6 to 36 hr, no automatic lockers. There is also a locker facility at Syntagma Square, central Athens ([https://leaveyourluggage.gr/en/ Leaveyourluggage.gr]). }} There is a '''tourist information office''' in Arrivals, they can provide information about Greek ferries. There is also a small '''museum''' on the top floor with an interesting history on Athens, and a space for temporary exhibits. ''Getting there:'' * By '''Metro''' to the city center, €9 one way and 16€ return (09/2024). Group tickets (2 or 3 persons) are also available and they provide some discount (see below). The airport Metro line is an extension of Line 3 (blue line) that takes you to the central Syntagma and Monastiráki stations. For measurement of time, it takes 1 hour from Airport train station to Syntagma station. :At the airport, !(Careful)! both metro trains and suburban trains pass from the same platform. If you are travelling to the city centre, you should take the metro trains. The ticket for the metro trains you can buy it at the metro station through the vending machine or at the counter (for example: metro station - acropolis) for 5 days ticket cost €8,20 (09/2024). You can pay with cash or card. :Don't forget to '''validate your ticket''' before going down to the platform and boarding a train (there are validation machines at the top of the escalators in the ticket hall). Failure to validate your ticket at the start of the journey can mean a fine of up to €200. The ticket inspectors are rigorous and won't hesitate to call for police assistance if you start to object. :Not all Metro trains from Athens go to the airport; typically the airport trains run every 36 minutes, while trains in the intervals don't go the whole route. Airport trains are indicated on the schedule and by an airplane logo on the front of the train, they are also announced by the signs on the metro platform. It's useful to go to the Metro station the day before, explain to the agent (most speak English) when you need to be at the airport, and ask what time you should catch the airport train from that station. You can also get this information at the airport metro station, which has a desk staffed most hours by someone who speaks English. They hang the time table of airport train on the window at the shelter (at Syntagma station). It's advice to buy airport train ticket in advance; buying in advance though means you won't risk missing your train if you find at the last minute you don't have change for the ticket machines and have to stand in a line to buy it from the agent. As of September 2024, you can pay the ticket from vending machine with the card. * By '''[https://www.hellenictrain.gr/ Suburban Railway]''' to the city center, €9 one way. From Airport station to Athens central station (alt name Larissa or Larissis Station) leaving at xx:07 every hour, passing through Central Athens before heading to Piraeus. Trains to Northern Greece and the Peloponnese depart from Athens central station. From Airport station to Monastiraki station via change at Nerantziotissa. A change at Neratziotissa suburban station (connection to Metro Line 1 "Neratziotissa station") can take you to The Monastiraki station. Or change at Doukissis Plakentias to Line 3 (blue) of the metro to get to Monastiraki and Syntagma stations. Suburban trains run more sparsely than the metro. * By '''express bus''': X93 to Kifissos Coach Station, X95 to Syntagma Square (Lines 2 and 3 and tram), X96 to Piraeus Port (Line 1) and X97 to Elliniko metro station (Line 2) for €5.50. It takes 45 min to 1½ hr depending on traffic. Buses, unlike Metro, operate 24 hours a day. When leaving to the airport early from Syntagma (before the metro opens), tickets can be bought at a kiosk next to the bus stop. * By '''[http://ktelattikis.gr/en/lavrion local bus]''': Buses run by KTEL Attikis, the sole transport provider for all long-distance bus lines of Attica, depart from a stop in front of the Sofitel Hotel to Koropi metro station (€1.60, 15 min, as of Mar 2025). Their frequency varies throughout the day, from every half an hour to more than three; see linked schedule (the workers at the express bus stop have no information about KTEL buses). From Koropi Station you can take the metro to the city centre paying the normal ticket price of €1.20, and so avoid the additional fare of €5.50 charged to Koropi from the airport and vice versa. You can also take local bus 308 from Koropi metro for the same price. For getting to the airport, KTEL buses pass Koropi Station approximately 20-30 minutes before the departure times from the airport listed on the above linked schedule. * By '''taxi''': if you take a taxi be careful. Taxi rides to the centre cost €40 during the day and €60 during the night. Prices are fixed and includes toll costs. ===By bus=== '''Regional coaches (KTEL)''' connect Athens to other cities in Greece. The fleet of buses has been upgraded, which makes the journey pleasant and safe. For some destinations one can also use the buses of the railroad company (OSE, see next paragraph) that might be international, but can also be used for in-country transport. At times there are collaborations with companies from adjacent countries such as Turkey, Bulgaria, Serbia, North Macedonia and Albania, so it's advisable to ask on both the bus and the train companies about the available options. There are two KTEL coach stations, one at Liosion Avenue, {{Marker|type=go |lat=38.010347 |long=23.7230531 |zoom=16 |name=Liosion Ktel Station|image=}} (near Aghios Nikolaos station on the Green line) and the other at Kifissou Avenue, {{Marker|type=go |lat=37.9979 |long=23.6991 |zoom=16 |name=Kifissou Ktel Station|image=}} Bus routes X93 (Athens International Airport), 051 (Athens center), 052 (Elaionas Metro station), 420 (Piraeus port). ====From Albania==== Several travel agencies offer bus service between Tirana and Athens, also stopping at several other cities in Albania. Cost is usually €30 between Albania and Athens (same cost regardless of the city in Albania). * Alb Trans, {{phone|+30 210 520 21 85}}, albtrans06@yahoo.com, €25, http://www.albtrans.net{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} stops in the following cities: Tirana, Durres, Kavaje, Rrogozhine, Lushnje, Berat, Fier, Ballsh, Krasta, Memaliaj, Tepelene, Athens. * Albatrans, albatrans.com.al, info@albatrans.com.al, {{phone|+355 42 259 204}}, €30 * top-lines.al, Albania: {{phone|+355 42233050}} albtoplines@hotmail.com, Greece: {{phone|+30 2105203350-1}} toplines@otenet.gr * Papadakis Bros S.A., {{phone|+30 210 52 02 551-3}} (Athens), {{phone|+355 42 22 41 03}} (Tirana) * Osumi Travel, {{phone|+30 210 52 49 268}} (Athens), {{phone|+355 42 2255 491}} or {{phone|+355 42 2272 644}} (Tirana), €30, or €25 between Gjirokaster and Athens, osumitravel@live.com * Alvavel, {{phone|+355 422 34629}} (Tirana), {{phone|+355 542 42476}} (Elbasan), {{phone|+355 822 42847}} (Korca), {{phone|+355 522 34446}} (Durres), {{phone|+30 210 5222436}} (Athens), €30 ===By train=== The national rail service, ''[https://www.hellenictrain.gr/ Hellenic Train]'', connects Athens to other cities in Greece. However, the national railroad system is limited compared to other European countries, in effect having only two lines. One goes south to the [[Pelopponese]]. The other goes to the north, connecting Athens with the second major city in Greece, [[Thessaloniki]] and [[Larissa]], the capital city of [[Thessaly]] region. From there the line continues further to the north and all the way to the east, passing through many other cities of northern Greece and eventually reaching [[Istanbul]]. {{Marker|type=go |lat=37.9919558 |long=23.7208624 |zoom=16 |name=Athens Central Railway Station (alt name Larissa Station)|image=}} is accessible by Larissa station of the red line (line 2). There are two types of train you can use; normal, slow, type of train equipped with beds, and the so-called new 'Intercity' type which is more expensive because of a 'quality supplement fee' that grows with distance. For example, travelling from Athens to [[Thessaloniki]] by the 'Intercity' type will save one hour at most, but the ticket will be almost twice the price. 'Intercity' tends to be more reliable, yet more 'bumpy' than the normal train. As of 2024, the international trains which used to connect Athens with [[Belgrade]] and [[Sofia]] via [[Thessaloniki]] are all suspended. ===By boat=== The chief sea port of Athens is the {{listing | type=go | name=[[Piraeus]]| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.9351377 | long=23.6224843 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | content=It is served by many ferries. Cruise ships also regularly visit, especially during warm months. Generally, pedestrian ferry users will be closer than cruise passengers to the Metro station providing access to central Athens; walking distances can vary considerably. Cruise passengers on larger ships usually reach the main cruise terminal by port shuttle bus; otherwise, it can be a non-trivial walk. Smaller ships (e.g., 1200 or fewer passengers) may dock near the terminal...an easy walk. From the terminal, pedestrians face a safe, level walk of over a mile to the Piraeus Metro station; taxis are readily available to go there, but are not inexpensive. }} The ports of {{listing | type=go | name=[[Lavrio]]| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.7085779 | long=24.0563638 | directions={{km|60}} south of city centre | phone= | tollfree= |fax=| hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= |lastedit=2019-05-30| content= }} and {{listing | type=go | name=[[Rafina]]| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.0229913 | long=24.0108963 | directions={{km|25}} east of city centre | phone= | tollfree= |fax=| hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= |lastedit=2019-05-30| content= }} act as alternative port of Athens; access is made by ktel regional buses. ==Get around== {{mapshapes|Q336488}} <!-- Metro --> {{mapshapes|Q252135}} <!-- Tram --> Public Transit in Athens is operated by the [https://www.oasa.gr/en/ Transport for Athens] company. Therefore, a single ticket allows you to travel on any means of transport—metro, trams, buses—with unlimited transfers anywhere within Athens (except the metro airport line east of Doukissis Plakentias and the airport buses). As of January 15th 2025, the contactless payment system "tap2ride" is available on all means of transport. Just tap your contactless Visa or Mastercard card or mobile phone (GPay, Apple Pay) on the reader! This will pay for a €1.20 simple ticket (or more if you're going to the airport). The cost is calculated at the end of the day and capped at €4.10. Note that discounted fares (students, seniors) are only available through a personalised ATH.ENA card, though the hassle and one-time cost of €4.50 will probably not be worth it for a short stay. The simple €1.20 ("integrated") ticket lets you travel for 90 minutes, and you can also get a €4.10 ticket valid for 24 hours, a €8.20 ticket valid for 5 days (09/2024), return ticket airport 16€ (09/2024) or a 72-hour "tourist" ticket for €20 that includes one round-trip to the airport. [[File:Public transport map of Athens.png|thumb|Public transport map of Athens|350px]] ===By metro=== [[File:20140622-Anthoupoli-62D304_(7872).jpg|thumb|A Line 2 train in Anthoupoli station|300px]] The Athens Metro is efficient and attractive, and generally the only pleasant way to get around Athens. Many metro stations (e.g. Syntagma) exhibit artifacts found during construction. Eating and drinking is forbidden in the metro system. During rush hour, it can become very crowded. There are three lines: * Line {{rint|athens|m1}}: '''Piraeus – Kifissia''', connects the port of Piraeus and the northern suburbs of Athens (Kifissia station) via the city centre. Be sure that you keep an eye on your personal stuff when using this line, and be prepared for people getting in the train and asking for money. * Line {{rint|athens|m2}}: '''Anthoupoli – Elliniko''' connects western and southern Athens via Athens centre. * Line {{rint|athens|m3}}: '''Dimotiko Theatro– Doukissis Plakentias – Airport''' connects Piraeus and the western suburbs with the eastern suburbs (Halandri and Doukissis Plakentias stations) and the International Airport. The standard metro fare is €1.20 (as of September 2022) for trips between all stations except the Airport line, east of Koropi Station. This allows travel with all means of public transport and unlimited transfers for 90 minutes. A 24-hour ticket for all public transport in Athens, apart from the Airport line, costs €4.10. The standard fare to or from the airport is €9 each way (as of September 2022), and this includes the full journey between any point in the Athens public transport system and the airport. Validate your ticket at the validation machines upon entering the station by beeping your ticket at a ticket validation machine or a ticket gate. Failure to do so will entail a hefty fine if you are caught by ticket inspectors. There are often several entrances to the stations and often they go straight to the platform, so remember which entrance is for which. It is open from 05:00 to midnight. ===By suburban railway=== The '''[https://www.hellenictrain.gr/ Athens Suburban Railway]''' ''(Proastiakos in Greek)'' is operating by Hellenic Train. There are 3 Proastiakos lines. From Piraeus to Airport, from Piraeus to Aigio and from Athens Central Station (Larissa station) to Chalkida. ===By tram=== The '''[http://www.stasy.gr/index.php?id=1&no_cache=1&L=1 Athens Tram]''' connects the city centre with the southern suburbs and has connections with the metro lines. There are three tram lines: * Line {{rint|athens|t3}}: '''Peace and Friendship Stadium – Asklipeio Voulas Hospital''' connects Faliro with the southern suburbs and runs along the coastal zone. * Line {{rint|athens|t4}}: '''Syntagma– Neos Kosmos – Peace and Friendship Stadium''' connects the city centre with Faliro. * Line {{rint|athens|t5}}: '''Syntagma – Neos Kosmos – Asklipeio Voulas Hospital''' connects the city centre with the coastal zone and the southern suburbs. Ticket prices are the same with Athens Metro (€1.20 for 90 minutes). The tram accelerates quickly, so make sure to be careful and hold on to something when it leaves a stop. ===By bus=== Athens is served by a network of diesel buses, natural gas buses and electric trolleybuses run by the [https://www.oasa.gr/ Athens Urban Transport Organisation]. The integrated ticket costs €1.20 and allows for multiple trips within 90 minutes, including transfers to the Metro or Tram and it's available in most kiosks. Trips to the Airport on the Express lines cost €5.50. You only need to validate once, before first use. Buses will not stop unless you signal the driver by raising your arm. Most central bus stops have smart displays that show bus arrival times and transport announcements. ===By taxi=== Canary yellow taxis are a common sight in Athens and are a reasonably priced way of getting around (if you can avoid the traffic jams). The starting fee is €1.19, after which the meter ticks up at €0.34/km ("rate 1") or €0.64/km ("rate 2"), with a minimum fare of €3.20. Rate 1 applies through Athens city limits, including the airport, while rate 2 applies outside the city and from midnight to 05:00. Legal surcharges apply for calling a taxi by radio (€1.60), trips to or from the airport (€3.20) and heavy bags (€0.32). Tipping is not necessary, although it's common to round up to the nearest full euro. Taxi fare fraud is not as widespread as it used to be, but it still happens, so insist on the meter and make sure the rate is correct. At busy tourist locations, drivers try to con with a set rate that is ridiculously high (e.g. €20 for a short trip). In these cases, it is best to find another and again insist on the charge shown on the meter. If you feel you have been overcharged, ask for a receipt (they are obliged to give one) and take the plate number, then phone the tourist police to report the driver on 171. Taxi drivers rarely obey the rules of the road. Expect that if you are leaving Athens on an early flight the driver will drive aggressively to get you there as quickly as possible. Taxis are considered to be fairly cheap in Athens. Therefore, you can expect to share the ride during rush hours if you can find one, and at night after the Metro has shut down. If you hail a taxi which is already occupied (occupied taxis have a brightly lit TAXI sign on top of the car) the driver will ask where you want to go to before letting you in to join the other customers. Strikes by cabbies and public transit are common, so be prepared and watch the local news. ===By car=== You can rent a car at the airport where most of the major international companies have a presence. There are also several large local companies which will deliver the car outside of the airport. ===By bicycle=== Athens is not a friendly city for cyclists, as it does not have many bicycle lanes, and the car drivers tend to drive quite aggressively. Nevertheless (or maybe because of this) riding a bicycle in Athens has become lately some sort of a political (counter-)action, especially by young people with an alternative lifestyle. In general, tourists not familiar with the terrible Athenian traffic are not advised to use a bicycle as a principal means of transport. But within the network of pedestrian streets in the historical city centre, rides are safe and can be quite enjoyable. A bike hire scheme is at its fledgling stages; its bike station is in Technopolis. The "My City with a Bike" initiative, taken by the [http://www.neagenia.gr/ General Secretariat for the Youth]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and several NGOs, offers free conducted tours with free bikes every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 15:00 all year round except for the rainy days. Booking 10 days in advance is required, either by email (admin@anthropos.gr) or {{phone|+30 8011 19 19 00}}. ===On foot=== With the exception of touristy streets, walking in Athens is a little challenging. Athens' traffic can make crossing the street in some areas difficult, and walking down some very urban streets is an unpleasant experience due to noise pollution. The humidity of summer is exhausting, and there are parks to provide an escape from it. Fortunately, much of the traffic-plagued area of the city can be avoided by the use of the new Metro, which goes most places a visitor would want to see or walk around in. However, several central streets have been pedestrianized. A mostly car-free '''archeological walk''' starts at Vasilisis Amalias Street, passes in front of the New Acropolis Museum, Acropolis, Herodion Theatre, Thiseio (Apostolou Pavlou Str), Ermou Street and ends at the popular area of Kerameikos (Gkazi) where there are many bars and clubs. Pleasant walking can also be had in '''Plaka''', especially its upper reaches, and in much of '''Kolonaki'''. The National Garden can provide a welcome respite from the heat and noise of the city centre. Wear comfortable shoes with good traction, and make sure that you leave home any high heels or similar shoes. Some sensitive archeological sites have banned heels because the pointed heels damage the soft, slippery marble that you're walking on. Also the Mayor of Athens announced a big plan to pedestrianize, modernize and rebuilt a lot of central roads in order to offer more accessible walking routes to citizens and tourists. ==Talk== : ''Please see this [[Greece#Talk|section at the country level]] for a full discussion'' While Greek is the official language in Greece, many Athenians speak English and those in the tourist industry are likely to also speak French and/or German. Almost all signs are written in Greek and English. ==See== {{infobox|Discounted entry|As in the rest of Greece, students get heavily discounted entry to most tourist attractions in Athens (EU students get free entrance, non-EU ones pay half price). Some sites also offer free entry to EU citizens under the age of 24 and under 18 year olds of any nationality. The Acropolis and the main archaeological sites follow this practice, but require national student cards which explicitly mention 'University of ...', most other places accept ISIC cards. Cards are examined and any out-of-date will be rejected. Besides, all state owned archaeological sites and museums offer 50% discount from November 1st until March 31st. Most attractions in Athens offer free or discounted admission for disabled people living in the European Union (badge or card required). The discount is not advertised and you have to ask staff to get the information. You will also be offered assistance and lifts access if necessary.}} At first glance, Athens seems entirely to be composed of nasty, four- to six-story concrete buildings, lacking character and badly in need of a paint, but if you look beyond that, you will find little gems tucked in among the grey. The areas at the foot of the Acropolis, Anafiotika, Plaka, Monastiraki and Thissio are home to many wonderful Neoclassical buildings, trendy and traditional cafes and shops, narrow winding streets, and incredible views of the Acropolis. Little Greek Orthodox churches are tucked in among the concrete, often in the most unexpected places. These are usually beautifully decorated with icons and brass fixtures inside, but make sure you're appropriately dressed (no short sleeves or bare legs is a good rule of thumb, as a mark of respect). [[File:View of the Acropolis Athens (pixinn.net).jpg|thumb|The Acropolis - birthplace of modern Western civilization]] [[File:Acropolis back.jpg|thumb|The Erechtheion at the Acropolis]] {{Mapframe|37.9792|23.7324|zoom=14|width=520|height=560|layer=W|lang=en}} === Acropolis === The {{listing|inline=yes|type=see|name=Acropolis of Athens|lat=37.97145|long=23.72377|url=http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/3/eh355.jsp?obj_id=2384|wikidata=Q131013|wikipedia=Acropolis of Athens}} was the ancient fortified town of Athens, dating back to the Late Bronze Age. It is now a [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]] for its historic role and the many iconic buildings of the Greek Classical age, among them the Parthenon, the Erectheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. The key landmark of Athens, visible from afar, Acropolis dominates the Athenian sky and symbolizes the foundation of modern culture and civilization. Many portions of the site are undergoing major, needed renovations. Some views will be marred by scaffolding. The Acropolis is open daily, 08:00-20:00 during summer (01.04-31.08). Closing time gets gradually reduced to 18:00 starting from September first due to the days getting shorter. Last entry is 30 min before closing time. {{phone|+30 210 3214172}}. The normal entrance price is €30. The price is free for under-18s and EU citizens under the age of 25. Teachers get 50% off, as well as EU-seniors during the winter period. A €30 ticket^{[pricing update needed]} can be purchased which also provides admission to various other Athens historic sites (Acropolis and Slopes, Kerameikos and its museum, Ancient Agora and its museum, Roman Agora, Hadrian's Library, Olympieion, The Lyceum) within five days. If possible, arrive early to avoid heavy crowds (before 9am), and summer heat when relevant. The queue to buy tickets can be very long - expect to wait more than an hour. If you can, buy tickets [https://hhticket.gr online through Hellenic Heritage], the ticket is then sent by email. There are also other authorised sellers but they may cost more or don't offer discounts/free tickets. There are also a limited number of free days for the public listed each year - check Acropolis' website. Acropolis has 2 entrances: west and south. Entrance from the south will be started with Theater Of Dionysos. Entrance is from the west end of the Acropolis. From the Akropoli metro stop and New Acropolis Museum, walk west along Dionysiou Areopagitou Street and take the first right on to Theorias; from the Thissio metro stop west of Monastiraki, walk west to Apostolou Pavlou Street, turn left on it, and walk south to turn left on Theorias. From Plaka, you can walk south up steep Mnisikleous Street as far as you can go and turn right on Theorias. Following European regulations, disabled access to the Acropolis can be gained by means of special paths and a purpose-built lift on the north face of the hill, only for the use of those in wheelchairs. A canteen with a wide range of food and drink is reached before you get to the ticket kiosk - but beware: refreshments are available only at exorbitant prices. You will definitely need a bottle of water with you in the hot summer, so either bring it with you or buy it from the kiosk on Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, just outside the entrance. There are water fountains within the site, but the water isn't always cold. Guides can nearly always be found offering to show you around - at a price - at the point where tickets are checked. As an alternative, ask for the free leaflet published by the Archaeological Resources Fund, which includes a ground plan of the site and valuable information on the various monuments. Additional historic sites and artifacts at the foot of the Acropolis are also included in the admission ticket. Most notably: * {{see | name=Theatre of Dionysus | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.97067 | long=23.72764 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikipedia=Theatre of Dionysus | content=Classical Athens' main theatre, the first theatre ever built. Many of the great Greek plays were performed here for the first time. According to Plato's ''Symposium'', it could hold an audience of 19,000 spectators. Aristophanes' ''The Clouds'', mocking Socrates, was first performed here, and Plato considered this play to be a contributing factor in Socrates' trial and execution. | wikidata=Q1227044}} * {{see | name=Odeon of Herodes Atticus | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.97090 | long=23.72457 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Odeon of Herodes Atticus | content=This theatre, built in 161 CE, is still used for concerts and plays. The stone backdrop is still preserved to a remarkable height of 3 stories, because it was incorporated into a later fortification on the site. | wikidata=Q1328165}} ===Archaeological sites around Acropolis=== * {{see | name=Pnyx | alt=Ancient Greek: Πνύξ; [[Greek]]: Πνύκα, ''Pnyka'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.971667 | long=23.719444 | directions={{m|500}} west of the Acropolis | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free | wikipedia=Pnyx | wikidata=Q1125096 | lastedit=2019-03-07 | content=If Athens is the birthplace of democracy, then Pnyx is its cradle. Around 507 BCE this rocky hill, overlooking the Akropolis, became the meeting place for the ''ekklesia'', Athens' early democratic assembly. This site thus witnessed addresses by Pericles, Aristides and Alcibiades during the "Golden Age" of Athens, and had a capacity for 6000 to 13,000 hearers. The site was redesigned several times, creating three distinct phases in its history, until the ''ekklesia'' moved to the Theatre of Dionysos some time during the first century BCE. During the Roman era Pnyx was instead used as a sanctuary of Zeus. }} [[File:Ac.agora3.jpg|thumb|right|The Tower of the Winds and the ruins of the Roman Forum]] [[File:AteneOlympieionDaAcropoli.jpg|thumb|right|The Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian's Gate seen from the Acropolis]] * {{see | name=Ancient Agora | alt= | url=http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/3/eh351.jsp?obj_id=2485 | email= | address= | lat=37.9751 | long=23.7224 | directions=just to the west of Plaka and easily walked to by following the pleasant section of Hadrian (Adrianou) Street leading west from Hadrian's Library | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 08:30 - 15:30, M 10:00-15:30 | price=€8, reduced €4, tickets valid for the archaeological site and the museum of the Ancient Agora | lastedit=2019-03-07 | content=The site of the Ancient Agora in a green space with a beautiful view of the Acropolis. From the agora you can walk towards Acropolis. Extension of the agora is the Roman Forum. }} :Contains the following sites: :* {{see | name=Temple of Hephaestus | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.9757 | long=23.7215 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Temple of Hephaestus | wikidata=Q756824 | lastedit=2019-03-07 | content=The best preserved ancient Greek temple, 5th century BCE. }} :* {{see | name=Stoa of Attalus | alt= Museum of the Ancient Agora| url=http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/1/eh151.jsp?obj_id=3290 | email= | address= | lat=37.9752 | long=23.7242 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1263335| wikipedia=Stoa of Attalos | lastedit=2019-03-07 | content=This reconstructed ancient building is used as a museum housing relics found in the Agora. }} :* {{listing | type=see | name=Church of the Holy Apostles | alt=Agias Apostoli | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.974 | long=23.7239 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Church of the Holy Apostles, Athens | wikidata=Q2615369 | content=One of the oldest churches in Athens (11th century). }} * {{see | name=Roman Agora | alt=Roman Forum | url=http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/3/eh352.jsp?obj_id=2402 | email= | address= | lat=37.9743 | long=23.7265 | directions=at the western end of Plaka | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=08:30 - 16:00 | price=€6, reduced €3 | lastedit=2019-03-07 | content=It houses the Tower of the Winds, an eight-sided tower with a different wind deity on each side, the remains of ancient shops, and a fountain. }} * {{see|name=Kerameikos |lat=37.97859 | long=23.71811 | hours=08:30 - 16:00 | price=€6, reduced €3 | lastedit=2019-03-07 |content=The site of the ancient cemetery of Athens. It also houses the Dipylon Gate, where the Panathenaic procession would begin. Its museum showcasing many of the grave stele and other archaeological items found on the grounds. The site has more than 20 tortoises, so be sure to watch your step and not trample on them.}} * {{see | name=Temple of Olympian Zeus | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.9695 | long=23.7331 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Only the ruins remain today. The column that has fallen and can still be seen in pieces was brought down during a thunderstorm about a century ago. }} * {{see | name=The Lyceum | alt=Λύκειο, Lýkeio | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.974075 | long=23.743503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€4, reduced €2 | lastedit=2019-03-07 | content=An ancient temple here hosted lectures by Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, and early meetings of the Athenian Assembly. Aristotle made the temple the home of his school, the Lyceum. It hosted the world's first zoo and botanical garden, as well as a library which preserved classical Greek works for centuries afterwards. Rediscovered in 1996, the site can now be viewed outdoors. Entrance is from the north, from the same entrance as for the Byzantine and Christian museum. }} * {{see | name=Plato's Academy | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.992359 | long=23.708059 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q193093 | content=This house of study was founded by the famous philosopher Plato. His equally famous follower Aristotle studied here for 20 years before leaving to found a school of his own. The site is an outdoor free park where you can see the excavated ruins. The ruins are not well explained or particularly impressive. The exact coordinates given here are for a sign which best explains the various ruins in the park. The site is a long walk from all other historic sites, or a single bus route which runs slower than walking on the busy streets. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Hadrian's Reservoir | alt= | url=https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/hadrians-reservoir | email= | address= | lat=37.979044111132616 | long=23.741593526570966 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | content=Now the base of a summertime outdoor cinema, you can view the remains of the reservoir that was the terminus of an aqueduct that transported water for Roman-era Athenians from Parnitha to the base of Mount Lycabettus. Unfortunately, you can only peer through windows and are not able to descend into the reservoir itself. }} ===Modern sites=== * {{see | name=Panathinaiko Stadium | alt= | url=http://www.panathenaicstadium.gr/HomePage/tabid/84/language/en-US/Default.aspx | email=info@panathenaicstadium.gr | address=Leof. Vasileos Konstantinou | lat=37.96835 | long=23.74111 | directions= | phone=+ 30 210 75 22 984-6 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€12 entry / €6 concession | wikipedia=Panathenaic Stadium | wikidata=Q208811 | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=The stadium that housed the first modern day Olympic Games of 1896. Earlier versions of the stadium date as far back as 330 BCE. It's an enormous, white, marble stadium, with a horseshoe configuration. }} * {{see | name=Lycabettus Hill | alt= | url=https://www.lycabettushill.com/ | email= | address= | lat=37.982 | long=23.7434 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1357713 | lastedit=2023-01-20 | content=A 200-m hill bordering the Kolonaki district. You can reach the top by walking (the path starts 15 minutes from Evangelismos metro stop, and will take 30 minutes to walk up the winding, but paved and not steep, path) or by a funicular railway (€8 single/€10 return trip). From halfway up looking towards the sea there are astonishing views of the Parthenon with the blue of the sea glimpsed between its columns. And from the top you can see the whole city, the port of Piraeus and, on a clear day, the island of Aegina and the Peloponnese. Have a drink at the cafe there, and pay a visit to the chapel of St George. }} * {{see | name=Olympic Stadium | alt= | url=http://www.oaka.com.gr | email= | address= | lat=38.036129 | long=23.785403 | directions=Eirini Station (Metro Line 1) | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q189663 | content= }} * {{see | name=National Theatre | alt= | url=http://www.n-t.gr/ | email= | address=Agiou Konstantinou 22 | lat=37.98479 | long=23.72532 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Theatre of Greece | wikidata=Q583039 | content=A low but imposing building erected between 1882 and 1890 by architect Ernst Ziller in the eclectic style of that age, commissioned by King George I. }} [[Image:Tomb_of_the_unknow.jpg|thumb|right|Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the bottom of the Greek Parliament]] * {{see | name=Syntagma Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.97555 | long=23.73484 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1137997 | content=Check out the Parliament building and the newly restored Grande Bretagne Hotel. Also, catch the changing of the guards in front of the Parliament every hour on the hour. Their uniforms and walking style are very fun to see. Make sure you don't stand on the wrong side of them if you want to take a picture. If you accidentally do so, they will knock their gun and, as they are not allowed to speak, someone else from the guard will kindly ask you to change position. A more elaborate version of the ceremony takes place at 11AM every Sunday, when it is accompanied by a marching military band. }} :* {{see | name=Hellenic Parliament Building | address= | lat=37.97529 | long=23.73707 | content=Formerly the royal palace, lining the eastern side of the square and guarded by kilted and pom-pommed soldiers - the evzones (ev-zone-ees). }} :* {{see | name=Tomb of the Unknown Soldier | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.97553 | long=23.73641 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3531128 | content= }} ===Further away=== [[File:Dafni Monastery.jpg|thumbnail|Dafni monastery]] * {{see | name=Daphni Monastery | alt= | url=http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/2/eh251.jsp?obj_id=1514 | email=1eba@culture.gr | address=Athinon avenue | lat=38.01298 | long=23.63593 | directions= | phone=+30 210 5811558 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu and F 08:00-15:00 | price=Free admission | wikipedia=Daphni Monastery | wikidata=Q500444 | lastedit=2018-03-26 | content=An 11th-century Byzantine monastery and [[UNESCO World Heritage site]]. Damaged by an earthquake in 1999, but has now been fully restored. }} *{{see | name=Kaisariani Monastery and Gardens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kaisariani Monastery | lat=37.960833 | long=23.798333 | directions=It's easiest to take a taxi | phone=+30 210 723 6619 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kaisariani Monastery | wikidata=Q1168003 |lastedit=2023-02-25| content=A nice escape from the city in the foothills of Mount Hymettus. Walking trails. There's a functional monastery one can walk in, and several ruined chapels or basilicas up on the walks. }} ===Museums and galleries=== Because of its antiquity and influence, Athens is full of museums and galleries. The major ones are the National Archeological Museum, the Acropolis Museum, the Benaki and Museum of Cycladic Art, the Agora Museum, and the Kanellopoulos and Folk Art Museums. ====Archaeology museums==== * {{listing | type=see | name=National Archaeological Museum of Athens | alt= | url=https://www.namuseum.gr/en | email=eam@culture.gr | address=44 Patission Street | lat=37.98910 | long=23.73276 | directions= | phone=+30 213 214 4800 | tollfree= |fax=| hours= | price=Apr 1—Oct 31: €10, Nov 1—Mar 31: €5, 3-day special ticket package: full €15, reduced €8, valid for National Archaeological Museum, Epigraphic Museum, Numismatic Museum and Byzantine and Christian Museum of Athens | wikipedia=National Archaeological Museum, Athens | wikidata=Q637187 |image=| lastedit=2019-03-07 | content=This is the largest and most popular of Athens' many museums, and is usually very crowded. Its vast collection includes treasures unearthed from Mycenae by Heinrich Schliemann; a staggering array of sculpture including the earliest known Greek figurines dating from around 2,000 BCE; frescoes from the volcanic island of Santorini; and remains of Antikythera mechanism, the oldest known mechanical computer. Plan to make several visits to absorb it all. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Acropolis Museum | alt= | url=http://www.theacropolismuseum.gr/en | email=info@theacropolismuseum.gr | address=Dionysiou Areopagitou 15 | lat=37.96854 | long=23.72843 | directions= | phone=+30 21 0900 0900 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€10, reduced €5 | wikipedia=Acropolis Museum | wikidata=Q421084 | lastedit=2019-03-19 | content=This long-overdue replacement for the musty old museum opened in 2009. Its design looks very "modern" from the outside, but on the inside it's very intuitive. The top floor is a clever reproduction of the Parthenon with all the sculptures in the right places (and impressive views in every direction). Lower floors contain other finds from excavations, beautiful and interesting and well explained. in Makryanni just below the Acropolis, the museum is easily accessed from the Acropolis metro station. }} * {{see | name=Kanellopoulos Museum | alt= | url=https://pacf.gr/en/ | email=info@pacf.gr | address=12 Theorias & Panos Streets | lat=37.97300 | long=23.72596 | directions=Plaka | phone=+30 21 0324 4447 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 08:00-15:00 | price=Apr-Oct: €4, €2 reduced; Nov-Mar: €2 | wikipedia=Museum of Pavlos and Alexandra Kanellopoulou | wikidata=Q4306141 | lastedit=2018-03-26 | content=A small but excellent museum displays artifacts from Mycenean Greece on, and includes some wonderful Persian artifacts. }} ====Art museums==== The visual arts have a big role in the Athenian life. Next to big institutions such as the National Gallery and the Benaki Museum, many small private galleries are spread across the city centre and the surrounding areas, hosting the works of contemporary visual and media artists. Bar galleries have sprung up, where you can have a drink or a coffee while visiting an exhibition. * {{see | name=Benaki Museum of Greek Culture | alt= | url=https://www.benaki.gr/index.php?lang=en | email= | address=1 Koumbari St. & Vas. Sofias Ave | lat=37.97602 | long=23.74038 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=W F 10:00-18:00; Th Sa 10:00-00:00; Su 10:00-16:00 | price=€9, students, seniors, people with disabilities and teachers €7; temporary exhibitions €7/€5; €25 Benaki Museum Experience ticket entitles the visitor to one entrance per exhibition in all the Benaki Museum buildings, valid for 3 months | wikidata=Q816669 | lastedit=2019-03-07 | content=Visit the beautiful Neoclassical main building which houses collections of Greek art, from ancient times through the Byzantine period and the modern state. Open late and for free on Thursday evenings. The museum shop is a good place to buy souvenirs. There is a small selection at high prices but the quality is excellent. }} [[File:Stathatos Mansion.JPG|thumb|The Museum of Cycladic Art]] * {{see | name=Museum of Cycladic Art | alt= | url=http://www.cycladic.gr/en | email= | address= | lat=37.9757 | long=23.74227 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M W-Su 10:00 to 17:00, open till 20:00 on Th | price=€7, on Mondays and students - €3.50 | wikidata=Q1230253 | lastedit=2019-03-07 | content=Holds the second largest collection of Cypriot antiquities in the world outside Cyprus, after the Metropolitan Museum in New York. Some of the most popular exhibits include the Cycladic figurines, the idols from Early Bronze Age Cyclades, whose style greatly influenced modernist work in the 20th century, and Cypriot pottery and Ancient Greek artifacts, especially the ‘Scenes of Daily Life in Ancient Greece’ display, which is popular with families. They also sell great souvenirs, and lunch is available at the elegant Aethrion Café. If you are lucky, there may be a quirky temporary exhibition too (with no extra entry fee), as they hold archaeological, modern and contemporary art exhibitions. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=National Gallery | alt= | url=http://www.nationalgallery.gr/en | email= | address=Michalakopoulou 1 | lat=37.97563 | long=23.74938 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Gallery (Athens) | wikidata=Q1167467 | lastedit=2019-03-19 | content=It's one of Greece's main art institutions and features paintings and works of art from some of Greece's and Europe's best from the 19th and 20th centuries. Emphasis is given to popular Greek contemporary artists including Giannis Tsarouchis, Domenikos Theotokopoulos (a.k.a. El Greco), Theodors Vrizakis, Nikolaos Kounelakis, Nikiforos Litras, Konstantinos Parthenis, Maleas, Giannis Moralis and others. }} * {{see | name=Benaki Museum of Islamic Art | alt= | url=http://www.benaki.gr | email= | address=22 Ag. Asomaton & 12 Dipilou Streets – Kerameikos | lat=37.97924 | long=23.72023 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | lastedit=2019-02-09 | hours=Th F Sa Su 10:00-18:00 | price=€9; students, seniors and teachers €7 | content= An excellent collection which anyone interested in Islamic art will want to see. The museum was opened in 2004 as a branch of the Benaki, but is in a different part of town in two connected buildings. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Greek Folk Art | alt= | url=http://www.melt.gr/en | email= | address=22 Panos str., Plaka | lat=37.972533 | long=23.732308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M W-Su 08:00-15:00 | price=€2; students from non–EU countries, senior citizens from EU €1; under 19, students from EU (with ID), and people with disabilities free | wikidata=Q4306259 | lastedit=2017-12-12 | content=An excellent museum of its type. Too often neglected by visitors to Athens, even though it is in the heavily touristed Plaka neighbourhood. Displays include artefacts, tools, primitive painting, folk pottery and interior decor. It is particularly strong on costume and embroidery. }} * {{see | name=Athens Municipal Art Gallery | alt=Pinakothiki | url=http://www.elculture.gr/blog/venues/dimotiki-pinakothiki-athinwn/#prettyPhoto | email= | address=Pireos, 51 | lat=37.98088 | long=23.72144 | directions=near Koumoundourou square | phone=+30 210 3231841 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-13:00 and 17:00-21:00 | price= | wikidata=Q1576793 | content=Paintings of Greek painters of the first half of the 20th century are displayed. }} * {{see | name=Vorres Museum | alt= | url=http://www.vorresmuseum.gr/ | email= | address=1 Parodos Diadochou Constantinou St., Paiania, Attiki | lat=37.95264 | long=23.8476 | directions=Public transport: Metro Line 3 to Nomismatokopio, then bus 125 or 308 to 1st Agias Triado stop. Alternatively: Metro Line 3 to Koropi, then bus 307 to 2nd Agias Triados stop | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa Su 10:00-14:00, weekdays by appointment only and for groups of at least 20 people | price=€5, students €3 | wikidata=Q7941879 | lastedit=2015-05-29 | content=A museum of folk and contemporary art. Its grounds cover 320,000 m² (80 acres) including several buildings, gardens and courtyards. Its collection includes over 6,000 pieces covering 4,000 years of Greek history and art. The museum was donated by the Vorres family to the Greek state. }} [[File:Old Greek Parliament Athens.jpg|thumb|250px|National Historical Museum (Old Parliament)]] [[File:Averof_Today2.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Averof ship museum]] ====Other museums==== [[File:Kotsanas Museum at Katakolon port.jpg|thumb|Museum of ancient Greek technology]] * {{Marker|type= see |name= Museum of Ancient Greek Technology Kotsanas |wikidata=Q15260365 }} - A very interesting museum that should not be missed. Excellent demonstration of some fantastic inventions of the ancient Greeks. Most models are functional and can be interacted with. It's a relatively small museum, but if you take the time to read everything, it will take several hours. A "must see". * {{see | name=National Historical Museum | alt=Old Parliament | url=http://www.nhmuseum.gr/en | email=info@nhmuseum.gr | address= | lat=37.9775 | long=23.732778 | directions= | phone=+30 210 3237617 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 08:30-14:30 | price=€3 | wikidata=Q822101 | content=In the old parliament building on Stadiou Street a little northwest of Sytagma Square, this museum contains a large collection of historic documents such as the first constitution of Greece, furniture, equipment from the revolution. If you are lucky you may see the old session room. }} * {{see | name=Numismatic Museum | alt= | url=http://www.nummus.gr/ | email= | address= | lat=37.9778 | long=23.7354 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q658339 | lastedit=2018-12-30 | content=Situated just north of Syntagma Square, the building of the museum is one of the most beautiful in Athens, and was built by Ernst Ziller and was used as the residence in Athens of Schliemann. The collection contains thousands of ancient coins and ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Medieval figurines. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Greek Popular Musical Instruments | alt= | url=http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/1/eh151.jsp?obj_id=3403 | email= | address= | lat=37.97447 | long=23.72751 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4306254 | lastedit=2020-08-24 | content=1-3 Dioyenous, Plaka. A very interesting museum which includes exhibits of traditional Greek musical instruments, with recordings of most of them. }} *{{see | name=National War Museum | alt= | url=http://www.warmuseum.gr/en | email= | address=2 Rizari | lat=37.97539 | long=23.74534 | directions= | phone=+30 210 729-0543, +30 210-7252974 | tollfree= | hours=Nov-Mar: 09:00-17:00, Apr-Oct: 09:00-19:00 | price=€4 | wikidata=Q1788831 | lastedit=2016-09-21 | content=Not in Kolonaki, but just across the street, the National War Museum is the only significant surviving public project of the military dictatorship which ruled Greece 1967 - 1974. The museum's displays are old fashioned and biased towards the more successful periods of Greek military history. The tanks, artillery guns and aircraft on display outside the museum form the most interesting part of its collection, and can be visited for free. }} * {{see | name=Park of Maritime Tradition | alt= | url= | email= | address=Palaio Faliro | lat=37.93369 | long=23.6849 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-23 | content=Including the historical warships Georgios Averof, Velos and a replica of an ancient trireme. }} * {{see | name=Hellenic Air Force Museum | alt= | url=https://www.haf.gr/en/history/museum/ | email= | address=Palaio Faliro | lat=38.104917 | long=23.778444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hellenic Air Force Museum | lastedit=2015-05-23 | content=A number of old planes from as far back as the 1930s can be seen here. | wikidata=Q692428}} * {{see | name=City of Athens Technopolis | alt= | url=http://www.technopolis-athens.com/web/guest/home | email= | address= | lat=37.978139 | long=23.714111 | directions=At Peiraios Avenue & Persefonis Street, next to the Kerameikos metro station | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q174552 | lastedit=2017-04-04 | content=An industrial museum of incomparable architecture. The centre has assisted in the upgrading of a historic Athens district. }} *{{see | name=Spathario Museum | alt=Karagiozis Museum | url=http://www.karagiozismuseum.gr/ | email= | address=Mesogeion & Voriou Ipirou 27 | lat=38.053176 | long=23.812165 | directions= | phone=+30 210 80 22 360, +30 210 61 27 245 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu Th F 09:00 - 14:00 | price=Free | wikidata=Q7574011 | lastedit=2019-04-02 | content=The first and unique museum of shadow theatre in the world, dedicated to the famous Greek shadow theatre character "Karagiozis". }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Cultural Centre Hellenic Cosmos | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.9626148 | long=23.6887172 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Hellenic Motor Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.991435 | long=23.729910 | directions=near Pedion tou Areos and Victoria Metro Station (Line 1) | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1163632 | lastedit=2019-04-05 | content= }} *{{see | name=OTE Telecommunications Museum | alt= | url=https://www.cosmote.gr/cr2010/cr2010_en/ote-telecommunications-museum.html | email= | address= | lat=38.088265 | long=23.808076 | directions= | phone=+30 21 0620 1899, +30 21 0620 1999 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | lastedit=2019-05-05 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Michael Cacoyannis Foundation cultural center| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.967475 | long=23.696648 | directions= | phone=+30 210 3418550 | tollfree= |fax=| hours= | price= |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=|lastedit=2019-05-05| content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Planetary Evgenidio Foundation| alt= | url= | email= | address= 387 Syggrou Ave. (entrance 11 Pentelis st Palaio Faliro, Athens 175 64) | lat=37.9398247 | long=23.6963433 | directions= | phone= |+30 210 9469600= |fax=| hours= | price= |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=|lastedit=2019-05-05| content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Onassis Cultural centre| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.9579477 | long=23.7193069 | directions= | phone= |+30 210 9005800= |fax=| hours= | price= |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=|lastedit=2019-05-05| content= }} * {{see | name=Epigraphical Museum | alt= | url=http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/1/eh151.jsp?obj_id=3348 | email= | address=1 Tositsa Str | lat=37.988303 | long=23.731321 | directions= | phone=+30 210 8232950 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2732854 | lastedit=2019-05-05 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=National Museum of Contemporary Art | alt= | url= | email= | address=| lat=37.9630089 | long=23.7253329 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-05-05 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Digital Museum Plato | alt= | url= | email= | address=| lat=37.9944535 | long=23.7073032 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Museum of Mineralogy and Petrology | alt= | url= | email= | address=| lat=37.9666472 | long=23.7843246 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} * {{see | name=Gounaropoulos Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.975 | long=23.761528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5588347 | lastedit=2019-09-13 | content= }} ==Do== * If you're lucky enough to be in Athens for the '''Easter Weekend''', you'll see the spectacular sight of hundreds of people making their candlelit way down the hill on Holy Saturday night as part of the Easter Vigil procession. * Every weekend you can join a '''free bike tour''' of the old area of Athens. To take part in this, you should contact the [http://anthropos.gr NGO Anthropos] or {{phone|+30 210 8838914}} but you can just turn up if you aren't able to contact them in advance. Groups meet at 10:40 outside Thissio metro station. * If the weather is good, head out of town on buses A2, B2 or E22 from metro station Sygrou, or the tram from Syntagma to the '''beaches in south Athens'''. Just get off wherever the sea takes your fancy. Beach-side cafes can hit you hard with prices of food and drinks. If you are the only person getting on the bus, you must flag the bus down to get it to stop or it will just fly on by. ===Parks=== [[File:National Gardens.jpg|thumb|250px|National Gardens]] Several of Athens' hills - '''Lycabettus''' and '''Pnyx''' (see above), {{marker|type=do | name=Philopappos hill | lat=37.9675643 | long=23.7221248 }}, {{marker|type=do | name=Ardettos hill | lat=37.96791 | long=23.73928 }} - are planted with pines and other trees, and are more like small forests than typical urban parks. *{{do | name=National Gardens | alt= | url= | email= | address=behind the Parliament building | lat=37.97351 | long=23.7378 | directions=Between the Parliament and Zappeion buildings. | phone= | tollfree= | hours=dawn-dusk | price= | wikidata=Q646284 | content=A Peaceful and beautiful park in the centre of Athens, easily the coolest place to hide from the summer sun. Wander around, check out the quirky art that seems to sprout up every now and again, look on in disbelief at the "zoo", sit on one of the benches, enjoy the luxuriant flowers and vegetation, marvel at the turtle and duck ponds, have a frappe in the cafe, and spot one of the resident tortoises exploring... it's a fun place to hang out. }} * {{do | name=Pedion tou Areos | alt=Field of Mars | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.992836 | long=23.736514 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-08 |wikipedia=Pedion tou Areos | content=Covers 27.7 hectares, near the National Archaeological Museum. | wikidata=Q932606}} * {{do | name=Dionysiou Aeropagitou street | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.9698 | long=23.72633 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15214100 | content=This landmark street starts from the Temple of Olympian Zeus at Vasilissis Olgas Avenue, continues under the southern slopes of the Acropolis near Plaka, and finishes just beyond the Temple of Hephaestus in Thiseio. The street has been pedestrianised, forming a scenic route. The entire route provides visitors with views of the Parthenon and the Agora (the meeting point of ancient Athenians), away from the busy city centre. }} ===Nature=== * {{do | name=Parnitha National Park | alt= | url=http://www.parnitha-np.gr/welcome.htm | email= | address= | lat=38.173333 | long=23.7175 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q25510750 | content=Well-marked paths, gorges, springs, torrents and caves do the protected area. Hiking and mountain-biking in all four mountains remain popular outdoor activities for many residents of the city. }} * {{do | name=Lake Vouliagmeni | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vouliagmeni | lat=37.8075 | long=23.785556 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€8, children under 5 for free | wikidata=Q15041236 | lastedit=2015-05-23 | content=Α rare geophysical formation is to be found that gave the Vouliagmeni suburb its modern name: Lake Vouliagmeni ("Sunk Lake"), a small brackish water lake fed by underground currents seeping through the mass of Mount Hymettus. It was once a large cavern that collapsed following an earthquake, probably during the early Middle Ages. The outline of the collapsed cavern roof can be clearly discerned from a distance. The lake stands at a 40 cm elevation. It continues deep inside the mountain in an underwater cave never fully explored, as its end seems impossible to trace even by employing sonar detection. Many underwater expeditions have been carried out in order to chart it, and a few amateur divers have drowned trying. Because of its constant and comfortable water temperature (24 degrees Celsius year round), the lake functions as a year-round spa, there is an entrance fee. In the area operates a restaurant-bar. }} * {{do | name=Attica Zoological Park | alt= | url=https://www.atticapark.com/ | email= | address= | lat=37.980647 | long=23.908679 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€18, children 3-12 years old €14, children under 3 for free | wikidata=Q2917115 | lastedit=2019-05-05 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Sea Turtle Rescue Society Archelon | alt= | url= | email= | address=Glyfada | lat=37.86387 | long=23.74158 | directions=50 min by tram from central Athens | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-08 | content=They are regularly looking for volunteers who are willing to work on their own costs and are able to take care of injured sea turtles. }} * {{do | name=Kavouri Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.819061 | long=23.768552 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q25027807 | lastedit=2019-09-15 | content=Free entry beach with beautiful nature. }} ===Sport=== [[File:Faliro Sport Pavillion.jpg | thumb | 300px | Faliro Sports Pavilion Arena]] * '''Football:''' The Greek men's national team play home games at Agia Sophia Stadium (capacity 32,500 all seated), aka Opop Arena. Completed in 2022, it's in Nea Filadelpheia 10 km northwest of city centre. The UEFA Europa Conference League final was played there on 29 May 2024. : Athens has four soccer clubs playing in Super League (Σούπερ Λιγκ), the top tier: :: '''[https://www.aekfc.gr/ AEK Athens]''' play at Agia Sophia Stadium. :: '''[https://www.atromitosfc.gr/ Atromitos]''' play at the 9000-seater Peristeri Stadium 3 km northwest of Syntagma. :: '''[https://www.olympiacos.org/ Olimpiacos]''' play at the 33,300-seater Karaiskakis Stadium in Neo Faliro, 1 km east of [[Pireaus]] ferry port. :: '''[https://www.pao.gr/ Panathinaikos]''' play at the 16,000-seater Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium, 1 km northeast of Syntagma. : Lower placed clubs are Apollon Smyrnis at Georgios Kamaras Stadium 5 km north of Syntagma, and Ionikos at Neapolis Stadium 10 km west. * '''Basketball:''' Athens teams playing in the Greek Basket League, the top tier, are Olympiakos at Peace and Friendship Stadium in Neo Faliro, Panionios and Ionikos at Sofia Befon Palaio Faliro Indoor Hall, Peristeri at Peristeri indoor hall (next to Atromitos) and AEK and Panathinaikos both at Nikos Galis Hall. ===Theatre and performing arts=== Athens is home to 148 theatrical stages, more than any other city in the world. * {{do | name=Athens Festival | alt=Athens-Epidaurus Festival | url=http://aefestival.gr/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Athens Festival | lastedit=2023-01-01 | content=Runs from May to October each year. Offers a wide spectrum of events covering almost every taste. Outside Athens, try to attend a performance at the ancient theater of [[Epidaurus]] – a truly unforgettable experience. | wikidata=Q3557159}} In addition to a large number of multiplexes, Athens plays host to a variety of romantic, open air garden cinemas. The city also supports a vast number of music venues, most notably: * {{do | name=Athens Concert Hall | alt=Megaro Mousikis | url=https://www.megaron.gr | email= | address= | lat=37.98111 | long=23.754164 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q582203 | lastedit=2017-12-08 | content=This venue attracts world-famous artists all year round. }} ===Cultural activities=== [[File:View towards Acropolis from Stavros Niarchos Cultural Foundation.jpg|thumb|View towards Acropolis from Stavros Niarchos Cultural Foundation]] * {{do | name=Stavros Niarchos Cultural Centre | alt=Politismou Idrima Stavros Niarchos | url=https://www.snfcc.org/ | email= | address= | lat=37.94064 | long=23.69131 | directions=Leof. Andrea Siggrou 364, Kallithea 176 74 | phone=+30 216 8091000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=06:00-20:00 (gardens open till 22:00 in summer; National Library open 06:00-00:00) | price=Free | wikipedia=Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center | lastedit=2018-01-07 | content=This complex in the seaside suburb of Kallithea has stunning views from its terrace all the way to the Acropolis on one side and of the coast on the other. Evening concerts and other cultural events take place here. The building, gardens and complex alone are worth a visit, and a free shuttle bus is provided from Syntagma Square. Check the web site for the free (optional) tours in English. The collection of the National Library of Greece is being transferred here, and one wing of the building contains an opera house (this part can only be visited as part of a free tour, if you are not attending an event in the auditorium). | wikidata=Q17511186}} ==Buy== [[File:Souvenir shop.jpg|thumb|Souvenir shop in Plaka]] [[File:Plaka District.jpg|thumb|Plaka District]] Although a huge city, Athens has relatively few '''shopping malls or large department stores'''; the small, family run shop still conquers all. Souvenirs are of course available everywhere that tourists go. Other shopping opportunities are antiques, museum reproductions, embroideries and other folk art goods, and Greek food and drink products. Here is an overview of the Athens shopping scene: * '''Plaka''' is lined with souvenir shops, most of them selling cheap souvenir knick-nacks, though there are a few higher-quality shops. Prices can be high for good quality items. * In Athens, the '''Flea Market''' has two meanings. The sign next to Monastiraki station at the beginning of Ifaistou Street claims that you are entering "the Flea Market of Athens." The street is lined with second-hand and surplus shops of every description. Few of them are of much interest to the visitor, though towards the west end of the street there are some interesting shops selling old books, posters, and Greek and other music recordings. The real Flea Market is held on Sunday mornings in Plateia Avissinia at the western end of Ifaistou Street. There is incredible assortment of used objects, antiques, and junk. * '''Vrettos''' distillery (see below, under Drink) sells bottles of its own ouzo and other liqueurs. * Among all the souvenir and second-hand stores in the area, '''Martinos''' at 50 Pandrossou ({{phone|+30 210 321-3110}}) stands out as a genuine antique shop, offering top quality items from Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean. Prices are also top of the line, so this is a shop for knowledgeable antique buyers in the market to do some serious spending. Remember that taking antiques out of Greece and into your own country may be subject to the laws of both countries and be sure you're familiar with them before taking anything old home. * '''Kolonaki''' is the upscale, hip, and artistic shopping area. Kolonaki offers the usual range of shops for an upscale neighbourhood; art galleries, hip clothing boutiques, and antique stores are common. The area is small and along with the small streets north of it, including Skoufa, Anagnostopoulou and the pedestrianized Tsakaloff, are ideal for simply wandering around. {{marker|type=buy|name=Plateia Kolonaki|lat=37.97698 | long=23.74084}}(Kolonaki Square) There are also plenty of shops along Patriarchou Ioakim and Haritos streets and their cross streets. * Another area is '''Kifissia'''. * For a more reasonable price tag, try '''Ermou Street''', beside Syntagma Square. Turn right off Ermou at the MAC makeup shop and you'll find yourself on Aghiou Markou and other small streets which have a wide range incredibly cheap shoes, bags, jewellery, gifts and homewares. * '''Street vendors,''' with their wares laid out on blankets on the pavement, can be found in many places where tourists congregate, especially in Plaka and Monastiraki. Their goods are mostly forgeries, cheap knock-offs, and illegal CDs. These vendors are unlicensed, which is in violation of Greek law, and you may notice them vanishing as soon as a policeman is in sight, to reappear the instant the police have gone. They are best ignored. (This warning doesn't apply to vendors of fruit, nuts, etc., from street carts, who are usually legitimate.) *{{buy | name=Laiki | alt=People's market | url= | email= | address=Divaki Pindou and Ioanni Theologou, and in several other places in Athens neighbourhoods | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-11-14| content=A fruit, vegetable and fish market. Good fun. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=The Mall Athens | alt= | url=http://themallathens.gr/ | email= | address= | lat=38.04453 | long=23.79027 | directions=Neratziotissa station (Metro Line 1 and suburban rail) | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-08 | content=The biggest shopping mall in Athens with a large variety of shops, cafés and restaurants and one of the most "hi tech" cinemas in the city. }} * {{buy | name=Golden Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=38.03417 | long=23.79276 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-08 | content=A shopping mall at Kifissias avenue in Maroussi. It has shops with luxury brands, luxury cafés, bars, and restaurants. }} * {{buy | name=Athens Heart | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=37.97004 | long=23.70065 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-08 | content=A shopping mall close to the centre of Athens. }} * {{buy | name=Athens metro mall | alt= | url=https://www.athensmetromall.gr/ | email= | address=Par. Leof. Vouliagmenis 276, Ag. Dimitrios 173 43 | lat=37.939392 | long=23.739979 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-4-03 | content=A shopping mall in Vouliagmenis avenue close to Agios Dimitrios station (Metro Line 2). The food court on the top level offers a nice view of the city and the sea. }} * {{buy | name=McArthurGlen | alt= | url=https://www.mcarthurglen.com/el/outlets/gr/designer-outlet-athens/ | email= | address= | lat=37.9824746 | long=23.9035353 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-5-05 | content=The biggest discount village of Athens. }} ==Eat== [[File:Plaka Restaurants.JPG|thumb|right|Traditional restaurants (sing.: taverna, pl.: tavernes) in the side streets of the Plaka district]] The districts ''Kolonaki'' and ''Plaka'' are especially good areas for dining out. For quick, decent and low-budget meals that do not fall into the commercialized fast food category, try a ''souvlaki'' (pronounced soo- VLAH-kee), mainly grilled meat (pork or chicken) vegetables (tomato and onion slices) and Greek ''tzatziki'' (pronounced tzah-TZEE-khee) which is yogurt enriched with garlic and cucumber. All the above (often accompanied by French fries) are wrapped inside a thin slice of pan bread, named ''pita'' (PEE-tah). Prices of ''souvlaki'' vary according to the confidence and/or nerve of the cornershop owner, but usually cost from €1.70 to €2.20, and another €5 for drink, salad and French fries for a total no more than €7. Take away is cheaper than if you sit at a table. You can get souvlaki just about everywhere, especially in tourist areas. The best souvlaki stands in central Athens are both in Monastiraki, adjacent to each other and just off the main square in front of the Metro stop: '''Savvas''' at Mitropoleos 86-88 and '''O Thanasis''' at Mitropoleos 69. If you're interested in a sandwich, cheese pie, spinach pie or the equivalent of a fast snack, try Grigoris ('''Γρηγόρης''') or '''Everest''', two chains of fast food in most districts of Athens and the rest of Greece. '''Goody's''' is the Greek equivalent of McDonald's and offers a fair variety of tasty meals, including pasta, different salads, burgers etc. McDonald's is the same like everywhere, but here it has a slight Greek slant. At the end of Mitropoleos, just around the corner from the Metro station, is a trio of famous ''souvlaki'' shops &mdash; '''Thanasis''', '''Savvas''' and '''Bairaktaris''' (Μπαϊρακτάρης) &mdash; which are, depending on who you ask, the Zeus or the Hades of souvlaki lovers. At any of the three, if you take a seat and ask for a souvlaki, you'll be served a plate with meat, pita and chips for around €9. But, if you ask cashier for a ''pita-souvlaki'', you'll get the same stuff in a sandwich to take away for around €1.70. ===Budget=== Adrianou, which runs along the north side of the Acropolis from Thissio in the west to Plaka in the east, is packed with tavernas. Many are touristy and a little on the pricy side, so try to pick one that also has locals as customers. Expect to pay a little extra at any place that has views of the Acropolis. ====City centre==== There are several budget-friendly restaurants in the centre. *{{eat | name=Σουβλάκι Κώστας 1950 συνταγμα (Kostas) | alt= | url= | email= | address=5 Pentelis | lat=37.9749191 | long=23.7319332 | directions=take Metropolis from Syntagma Square, turn left on Pentelis | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=It's authentic, friendly and fast. }} * {{eat | name=Vegan Beat Athens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Perikleous 56 | lat=37.9767757 | long=23.7297995 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-01 | content=Vegan street food restaurant. Tasty food and nice people that work there. A good place for all vegans and even non-vegans. The true Parthenon of the vegan scene of Athens. Excellent vegan souvlaki. }} * {{eat | name=The Traditional | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kolokotroni 59 | lat=37.9777446 | long=23.7288011 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Traditional Greek food. If you want to eat in a quality village tavern in the center of Athens, you will come here. Great roasted food, salads and appetizers! The food is handmade. }} * {{eat | name=Krasopoulio tou Kokkora | alt= | url= | email= | address=Esopou 4 | lat= 37.9776907| long=23.7241521 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Among the best traditional Greek restaurants in Athens downtown. The owner is smiling, polite and very keen to assist. A wonderful casual lunch or dinner spot. Fresh ingredients and substantial portions. }} * {{eat | name=Aspro Alogo | alt= | url= | email= | address=Apollonos | lat=37.9747521 | long=23.7312560 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=An excellent little Greek restaurant well worth finding. Everything is fresh and delicious and the service is great. The owner is a helpful and generous guy. Attentive and familiar treatment. }} * {{eat | name=Atlantikos | alt= | url= | email= | address= Greece, Avliton 7| lat=37.9774240 | long=23.7229415 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Nice little place with great seafood selection. The meals look simple and are delicious. The portions are quite large and the quality price ratio is very well balanced. One should go in time and expect quite some waiting time to get a table on a small alley. Best local fish tavern with crunchy anchovies and perfect frying without being oily. }} * {{eat | name= Kafeneio Ivis | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ivis 10 | lat=37.9775546 | long=23.7226786 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Very authentic Greek tavern, frequented by locals. Great value for money. Warm welcome, nice terrace and fast service. }} ====Around the Alexandri Square (Gardenia)==== *{{eat | name=The 2 Brothers | alt=Τα δύο αδέλφια | url= | email= | address=Leof. Stratarchou Alexandrou Papagou 81 | lat=37.9780537 | long=23.7697173 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=A giro will cost around €2 | lastedit= | content=The best souvlaki in this part of Athens. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{eat | name=Lefka | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Greek-Restaurant/%CE%A4%CE%B1%CE%B2%CE%AD%CF%81%CE%BD%CE%B1-%CE%97-%CE%9B%CE%B5%CF%8D%CE%BA%CE%B1-1708448126101278/ | email= | address=Mavromiháli 121 | lat=37.9868921 | long=23.7421405 | directions= | phone=+30 210 36 14 038 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=A long-established traditional taverna with spacious outdoor seating. Closed Sundays. }} * {{eat | name=K Filippou | alt= | url=https://www.filippou.gr/en/ | email= | address=19 Xenokratous | lat=37.9791029 | long=23.7444796 | directions= | phone=+30 210 72 16 390 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=A long-established taverna serving some of the best and most authentic food in Athens. Seating is indoors and outdoors, though it's hard to find a seat in the latter during pleasant weather. }} * {{eat | name=Karamanlidika | alt= | url=https://www.karamanlidika.gr/ | email= | address=Ermou 119 | lat=37.9770462 | long=23.7228509 | directions=near Greek Agora | phone=+30 210 32 19 119 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-08-29 | content=A very remarkable, slightly upscale restaurant specializing in dishes native to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karamanlides Karamanli people]. Owing to their history, the food served here is a (very well-executed) mix between Greek and Turkish cuisine. A hidden gem (that is rather crowded, though)! Expect to pay 11€ per person for main courses and water. }} * {{eat | name=Karavitis | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pafsaniou 4 | lat=37.9714946 | long=23.7436133 | directions=near Pafsaníou | phone=+30 210 75 15 155 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=a severely traditional taverna where the speciality is stamnaki, or beef, potatoes and cheese cooked in tomato sauce in an individual clay pot. The fried zucchini here are also always good. Mostly patronized by Greeks, but there is an English-language menu. }} * {{eat | name=Το Κιούπι (To Kioupi) | alt= | url= | email= | address=Acharnon 255 | lat=38.0076697 | long=23.7295943 | directions= | phone=+30 210 36 14 033 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Known among some expatriates as "the hole in the ground," this is a basement taverna serving authentic, inexpensive traditional Greek fare. }} * {{eat | name=Platanos Taverna | alt= | url=http://eleinitsa.wixsite.com/platanos | email= | address=4 Dioyenous | lat=37.9743207 | long=23.7276950 | directions=Plaka | phone=+30 210 322 1065 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=One of the oldest tavernas in Plaka with a pleasant outdoor terrace under a huge plane tree, though some old Athens hands have complained that the food has become lacklustre. }} * {{eat | name=Zeus Xenios | alt=pronounced and sometimes spelled ''Zefs'' in modern Greek | url=http://xenioszeus.business.site/ | email= | address=Mnisikleous 37 | lat=37.9729390 | long=23.7277745 | directions=at the very top of Mnesikleous Street | phone=+30 21 0324 9514 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=literally in the shadow of the Acropolis, offers quieter and less expensive dining than the many touristy tavernas lining Mnesikleous whose touts will try to snare you as you walk up the hill. The view isn't as spectacular as you might expect, but the outdoor seating is very pleasant and the traditional Greek dishes include some unusual ones, like grilled peppers in yogurt sauce. The price includes a bottle of water, an appetizer plate and garlic bread. }} * {{eat | name=Pame Psirri | alt=Πάμε Ψυρρή | url=https://www.pamepsirri.gr/portal/ | email= | address=Katsikogianni 5 | lat=37.9791381 | long= 23.7243386 | directions= | phone=+30 210 3246098 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=On Agii Anargiri square -- Psiri. A "mezedopolio" where local singers sing rempetika music. }} *{{eat | name=O Morias | alt=Ταβέρνα Ο ΜΩΡΙΑΣ | url= | email= | address=Eirinis 56, Ag. Paraskevi 153 41 | lat=38.0084138 | long=23.8193609 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Greek restaurant }} *{{eat | name=Voskopoula (The Shepherdess) | alt=Βοσκοπούλα | url=https://www.voskopoula.com/ | email= | address=sivoron 87, 111 42 | lat=38.0260094 | long=23.7481295 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Greek restaurant }} *{{eat | name=Τaverna Μanolis. | url=http://www.taverna-manolis.gr/#/ | email= | address=Samou 1 Chalandri | lat=38.0305556 | long=23.8063889 | directions= | phone=+30 210 6824342 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Greek restaurant taverna. }} * {{eat | name=Rosalia | alt= | url=http://www.rozalia.gr/?language=en | email= | address=Valtetsiou 58 | lat= | long= | directions=Exarxeia | phone=+30 210 3302933 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=A tavern that serves simple, traditional Greek meals. }} * {{eat | name=Giántes | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/yiantes/ | email= | address=Valtetsiou 44 | lat= | long= | directions=Exarxeia | phone=+30 210 3301369 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=A tavern with a garden serving organic dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Kostarelos Cheese and Dairy | alt= | url=https://www.kostarelos.gr/en/home/ | email= | address=46 Pentelis Avenue | lat=38.0377372 | long=23.8253713| directions= | phone=+30 210 8104470 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Orea Penteli | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=On Psiri square | phone=+30 2103218627 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another "mezedopolio" with live music in an old restored building. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Cafe Avissinia | alt= | url=https://cafeavissinia.net | email=cafeavisinia@gmail.com | address=Kinetou 7 | lat=37.9766922 | long=23.7236566 | directions= | phone=+30 21 0321 7047 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-01-25| content=A remarkable restaurant, serving refined and creative innovations on traditional Greek dishes in a chic setting. It is on the square of the same name which is the venue of the main Athens flea market. This is an interesting place to come for lunch, where you can sit enjoying the upscale food and ambiance while looking out on the gritty bazaar of the Flea Market. Moderately expensive, and unfortunately no open wine, though they do have a short but well-chosen list of Greek bottled wines. Open for lunch and dinner. Those considering walking there for dinner from Plaka or the Monastiraki Metro should be aware that the intervening area, while fine by day and not known to be particularly dangerous even at night, it does take on an uncomfortable "Bladerunner" atmosphere after dark. }} ===Kosher dining=== Athens has only one kosher restaurant, Gostijo, a Sephardi restaurant in Psiri. ==Drink== [[File:Dacapo Athens.jpg|thumb|250px|Cafe in Kolonaki district]] * Greeks love to socialize, and Athens buzzes long after its other European counterparts have laid their heads down to sleep. 20:00 is the earliest most Greeks will consider going to eat out, and clubbers start to get ready at about midnight. Many Athens clubs relocate to the beach during the summer months. Cafes spill onto the streets and the sound of lively conversation is everywhere in the evenings. * Have a ''frappé'', the delicious Greek version of cold coffee. It is nothing like the frappé you find in other countries. Served sweet, medium, or without sugar, with or without milk. Delicious with Bailey's too. * A 'club zone' is in the coastal district, running to the east- if you go there and you are lucky, you can actually get to listen to non-Greek music. There are also many clubs and pubs in the center of Athens. * Go to the '''Psyrrí''' area (Monastiraki or Thissio station, Lines 1 and 3 and Line 1 respectively) for a number of smart bars and small clubs. It is the area immediately north of Ermou street between these two metro stops. * There are more and better bars in the area north of Ermou street between Monastiraki and Syntagma than there used to be. Aiolou and Kolokotroni streets offer a fair variety of cafés and bars. '''Magazé''', '''six dogs''', '''Booze''' and all the bars on Karytsi square (a small square at the end of Christou Lada street, behind Klafthmonos square on Stadiou avenue) can get very busy on Fridays and Saturdays, with visitors having their drinks even on the streets outside from spring through autumn, when the weather is nice. * The area around the Kerameikos station, called '''Gazi''' (Γκάζι, ''gas'') has been the gay village of Athens for quite a few years. Since the opening of the metro station, in 2007, the neighbourhood has attracted all kinds of crowds. This is a home to dozens of bars, cafés and clubs, gay or not, and to small theatrical scenes, the latter one especially to the northeast of the area, towards Metaxourgeio. * {{drink | name=Balux | url=http://www.baluxcafe.com/ | email= | address=Vassileos Georgiou B No. 58 Asteria, Glyfada | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the best bars in Athens for the specific style, to call it a bar is an understatement. Balux is large complex set right on the water in Glyfada, one of the trendiest areas of the city. It is open during the summer for swimming in the ocean or pool all day and turns into a lounge and full club at night. Where Athens' wealthy go to party. }} The '''Plateia Exarcheia''' square and nearby streets like '''Solomou''' have lots of clubs and bars. *{{drink | name=Taximi | url= | email= | address=Cnr. Harilaou Trikoupi and Isavron | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 210-363-9919 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} *{{drink | name=Rebetiki Istoria | url= | email= | address=181 Ippokratous | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 210 2587455 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of best rebetica clubs, often open in summer when most others are closed. }} '''Kolonaki Square''' (''Plateia Kolonaki;'' its official name is ''Plateia Filikis Etaireias,'' but no one ever uses it) is bordered with cafes whose customers tend to be mature Athenian movers and shakers for whom the area is the traditional in-town home. Most of these cafes serve desserts, light meals and drinks, and most of them are expensive. They tend to be liveliest late at night. One of the best established, and most prestigious, is '''Lykovrisi.''' Not many foreigners visit these cafes, but the visitor may find they make for interesting people-watching. *{{drink | name=Showroom | url=http://www.showroom.gr | email= | address=Milioni 2 & Irakleitou | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€5 for a beer | content=Nice cafe/restaurant. }} * '''Oréa Ellás''' ("Beautiful Greece") with two entrances 59 Mitropóleos and 36 Pandhróssou, Monastiráki (but just a minute's walk from Plaka; the cafe is upstairs) is a combination cafe and gift shop. The cafe, open all day but not after 18:00, offers coffees and alcoholic drinks and a limited range of snacks and sweets, in a wonderful old fashioned setting with stunning views of the Acropolis out the windows. The shop, called Kendro Ellinikis Paradosis (Centre of Greek Tradition) is an excellent place to buy souvenirs, which are more expensive but vastly better than the knick-knacks offered by the cheek-by-jowl tourist shops lining the street outside. * {{drink | name=Ydria | url=http://www.ydria.gr | email= | address=68 Adhrianoú | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30-210-3251619 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= This sprawling cafe-restaurant that takes up a large part of Platía Paliás Agorás along Adhrianoú St. at the western end of Plaka, is a good place for daytime coffee or a before or after dinner drink. They also serve food, though if you're there for a meal you'll be directed to a different seating area, so tell the waiter when you arrive if you just want a drink. This is the most pleasant cafe in a square packed with them; despite the Plaka location it's relatively quiet, with snatches of views of antiquity from the mostly outdoor seating. Particularly popular with younger Greeks, though all ages and nationalities will feel comfortable. Prices average or slightly below for Plaka, which still means not cheap, though the ouzo comes in hefty shots, and if you order the giant "ouzo platter" (€25) of appetizers with them, it will easily suffice for three people. }} * '''Vrettos''' at 41 Kydathineon, Plaka is a very atmospheric 100 year old distillery which makes its own ouzo, brandy and liqueurs, and sets up a bar at night where you can order them by the glass. They also offer wine tastings selected from 100s of Greek wines between 10:00-16:00. *{{drink | name=Costa | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€3-€4 for a coffee | content=Standard stuff, but has a nice air conditioned and quiet upstairs seating area overlooking the square. }} * {{drink | name=Metamatic_taf | alt=Taf | url=http://www.theartfoundation.gr | email=home@metamatictaf.gr | address=Normanou 5, Monastiraki | lat=37.97657 | long=23.72442 | directions=close to Monastiraki Square and metro station in Normanou street | phone=+30 21 0323 8757 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-04:00 | price= | wikipedia=el:Metamatic:taf# | lastedit=2017-04-11 | content=Independent space organising and hosting cultural events related to all forms of artistic production, and a point of social gathering. Great cocktails and a variety of jazz/soul music. }} ===Cafes=== *{{drink | name=Playce | url=http://www.playce.gr | email= | address=Str. Papagou 128 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A really nice cafe where you can play board games whilst drinking your coffee. Very popular. }} *{{drink | name=Filion Cafe | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Start the day with a double shot of dark espresso at this cafe in the Kolonaki neighbourhood, just north of Syntagma Square. }} ===Clubbing & night life=== Athens is famous for its vibrant nightlife. The Athenians like to party and will do so almost every night of the week. The choices are plenty and they appeal to all tastes and lifestyles. In general, things get started pretty late: after midnight for bars and clubbing and after 22:00 for dinner at the city's tavernas, Athens Restaurants and bar-restaurants. Hip areas include '''Gazi, Psirri, Metaxourgio, Exarcheia, Monastiraki, Theseion and Kolonaki'''. Traditional Greek evenings can be spent in '''Plaka'''. Many of Athens' hottest clubs and bars are in '''Psirri'''. '''Gazi''' has changed tremendously. Most of the galleries, mainstream bars, restaurants, clubs and Greek nightclubs here (featuring live Greek pop singers) are trademarked by their industrial design, as many of them are housed in remodelled—and once abandoned—factories. Gazi is one of the trendiest areas of Athens nightlife. You can get there by metro line 3 at Kerameikos station. '''Plaka - Monastiraki''' are two ancient, historic and all-time classic Athenian neighbourhoods popular with visitors, they do not have many big dance clubs and bars, but offer lively, traditional places to enjoy Greek culture year-round, and several rock and jazz clubs. You will find plenty nightclubs with live Greek music along '''Syggrou Avenue''' and at the industrial strips of '''Iera Odos''' and '''Pireos Street''' in Gazi. In the summer months, the action moves to '''Poseidon Avenue''' and the coastal towns of '''Glyfada''', '''Voula and Vouliagmeni'''. '''Kolonaki''' is a staple dining and entertainment destination, catering to the city's urban working professionals who enjoy an after work cocktail at many of its bars that are open - and busy - until after midnight, even on weekdays. The clubs here are also very chic. '''Exarchia''' is where to go for smaller more bohemian style haunts that cater to artists and college students. At the foot of Strefi Hill is where you will find most of the bars and clubs, many of which play rock music. An alternative option of Athens nightlife. ==Sleep== Athens has a wide variety of accommodation options, from camping and hostels, right up to 5 star luxury hotels. For listings of specific hotels, see the individual [[#Districts|district sections]]. ===Camping=== * {{sleep | name=Dionissotis Camping | alt= | url=http://www.campingdionissotis.gr | email=dionissiotis@hol.gr | address= | lat=38.1051 | long=23.8134 | directions=on the road that leads to Varibobi/Tatoi (Parnitha) | phone=+30 210 8001496, +30 6977-261615 | tollfree= | fax=+30 210 8001512 | checkin= | checkout= | price=€6 per person, €4 per small tent, €6 per large tent/caravan | lastedit=2015-06-01 | content=It has a hall for breakfast, a minimarket, a swimming pool and a playground for the children. 115 places for tents. }} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Athens Backpackers | alt= | url=http://www.backpackers.gr/ | email=info@backpackers.gr | address=12 Makri Street - Makryanni, Athens | lat=37.96861 | long=23.73051 | directions= | phone=+30 210 32 25 891 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Standard backpacking hostel offering clean and comfortable beds, 24 hr reception access, and discounted wifi access. Great spot to meet other travellers. }} * {{sleep | name=Athens Psiri Hotel|alt= | url=https://www.athhotel.com/ | email= | address=32 Sofokleous street | lat=37.981290|long=23.726320 | directions=next to Monastiraki metro and Plaka | phone=+30 2105234329 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=13:30 | checkout= | price=€35 | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-04-17 | content=Fully renovated in 2020. All rooms include private bathrooms, free wifi, air conditioning and heating. }} *{{sleep | name=AthenStyle | url=http://www.athenstyle.com | email=info@athenstyle.com | address=Ag. Theklas 10 Monastiraki | lat= | long= | directions=2 mins from Monastiraki metro station | phone=+30 2103225010 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€16-50 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Studios and hostel beds within walking distance of the metro. Each dorm has lockers. Artists have painted murals in the reception and some of the rooms, and there's a basement lounge with art exhibitions, pool table, home cimena and internet corner. The small rooftop bar is ideal for evening drinks. It produces a weekly art and culture guide. Yellow and green building. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Dioskouros Athens | alt= | url=http://www.hoteldioskouros.com | email=hoteldioskouros@gmail.com | address=6 Pittakou Street, Plaka, Athens | lat=37.97128 | long=23.73237 | directions= | phone=+30 210 3248 165 | tollfree= | fax=+30 210 3233359 | checkin= | checkout= | price=€15-20 per person in high season | content=Offers simple clean accommodation in a central location. }} * {{sleep | name=Tony Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.hoteltony.gr | email=tony@hoteltony.gr | address=26 Zaharitsa Str., Koukaki | lat=37.9653650 | long=23.7233088 | directions= | phone=+30 210 9235761 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hostel Aprodite | alt=Aphrodite | url=http://www.hostelaphrodite.com | email=info@hostelaphrodite.com | address=12 Einardou and Michail Voda corner 65, Athena 10440, Greece | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 210-8810589 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€12 for a 6 bed dorm, €14 for a 4 bed dorm, and more. Air conditioning €3 extra per person | checkin= | checkout= | content=Low-budget backpackers' hangout not too far from Larissa train station and Victoria Square, a bit north of the Omonia district. }} * {{sleep | name=Orion | alt= | url=http://www.orion-dryades.com/ | email= | address=105 Emm. Benaki & Anexsartisias str | lat=37.98736 | long=23.73802 | directions= | phone=+30 210 33 02 387-8 | tollfree= | fax=+30 210 38 28 575 | checkin= | checkout= | price=from €28 double | content=This small hotel is next to Strefi hill, offers nice view from its terrace and is in a calm area. Freshly renovated rooms and breakfast in communal kitchen. Internet included and sister hotel offers nice breakfast at the terrace, too. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Elite Athens | alt= | url= | email= | address=23 Pireos str Athens | lat=37.98271 | long=23.72528 | directions= | phone=+30 210 32 25 891 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=10 minutes walk from Monastiraki; simple, decorated rooms with air conditioning and TV. There is also a bar and coffee shop on the ground floor. }} === Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Acropolis View Hotel Athens | alt= | url=https://www.acropolisviewhotel.gr/en/home | email= | address=Webster street 10, Athens | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 210 32 25 891 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Attention to detail is catered for in this hotel, with most rooms having a fresh lick of paint on them every year. Rooms have central heating and A/C, private baths and mini fridges, and some have balconies. Price from €88 for a single room in high season. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Acropolis House | alt= | url=http://www.acropolishouse.gr | email=htlacrhs@otenet.gr | address=6-8 Kodrou, Plaka | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 210 3226241, +30 210 3222344-45 | tollfree= | fax=+30 210 3244143 | price=bathroom ensuite is €87 (includes breakfast) | checkin= | checkout= | content=The staff are very friendly and the hotel will hold your luggage if you are departing later in the day. Some of the older, more expensive rooms are very atmospheric; others are rather drab. }} * {{sleep | name=Athos | alt= | url=http://www.athoshotel.gr/english/profile.htm | email= | address= | lat=37.97489 | long=23.73073 | directions= | phone=+30 210 3221977-9 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Patrou 3. Nice hotel in Plaka with roof-garden with a view of the Acropolis. }} * {{sleep | name=Central Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.centralhotel.gr/ | email= | address=Apollonas St 21 | lat=37.97462 | long=23.73103 | directions=Plaka | phone=+30 210 32 25 891 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Designed by architect Stelios Demos, this hotel fuses modern art design with a classical Greek touch. Restaurant, daily buffet breakfast. Priced from €128 for a standard room in the high season. }} * {{sleep | name=O&B Athens Boutique Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.oandbhotel.com | email= | address= | lat=37.97756 | long=23.72194 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A small boutique hotel in the center of Athens, close to sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Omiros Athens | alt= | url=http://www.omiros-hotel.com/ | email= | address=15 Apollonos Str, Athens | lat=37.97466 | long=23.73171 | directions= | phone=+30 210 32 25 891 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Each of the 40 rooms features air conditioning, a television and a mini fridge. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn | alt= | url=http://www.hiathens.com | email=info@hiathens.com | address=Attica Avenue 40.2 km, Peania | lat=37.97180 | long=23.88025 | directions=between exits 17 & 18 | phone=+30 210 668-9000 | tollfree= | fax=+30 210 668-9500 | checkin= | checkout= | price=€100 | content=Close to airport offers stylish rooms with Wi-Fi internet. Hotel houses the Ruby Restaurant and Golden Bar. Hotel offers complimentary gym, the sauna, indoor pool and the jacuzzi to its guest and free shuttle bus service to the airport daily but at a specific timetable. }} * {{sleep | name=Fresh Hotel | alt= | url=https://freshhotel.gr/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A superb designer hotel within easy walking distance of the Acropolis in the centre of Athens. The rooftop bar and swimming pool has breathtaking views of the Acropolis - the perfect way to end the day's sightseeing or business. }} * {{sleep | name=Periscope Hotel | alt= | url=http://periscope.athenshotels.it/ | email= | address=22 Charitos Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=An upscale (with prices to match) hip boutique hotel in Kolonaki with glossy, minimalist decor. This hotel used to be the Athenian Inn, and that name may still be found in some Athens hotel listings in guidebooks, but the former hotel has been so completely refurbished that it is now a totally different establishment. }} * {{Sleep|name=Mirabello|url=https://www.athens-mirabello.gr/|email=info@athens-mirabello.gr|address=Geraniou 49|phone=+30 210 52 23 657|lastedit=2022-07-26}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Radisson Blu Park Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.radissonblu.com/en/hotel-athens?facilitatorId=CSOSEO&csref=org_gmb_sk_en_sn_ho_ATHZH | email= | address=10 Alexandras Ave, Athens 10682 | lat=37.99126 | long=23.73330 | directions= | phone=+30 210 8894500 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=5 star hotel offering high speed internet access and express mail, late check out and foreign currency exchange. }} * {{sleep | name=The St George Lycabettus Hotel Athens | alt= | url=http://www.sglycabettus.gr/ | email=info@sglycabettus.gr | address=2 Kleomenous Street, 106 75 | lat=37.97942 | long=23.74248 | directions= | phone=+30 210 7290711 19 | tollfree= | fax=+30 210 7290439 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Located in Kolonaki. This boutique hotel offers great views of the Acropolis. }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Athens | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/athhitw-hilton-athens/ | email=reservations.athens@hilton.com | address=Leoforos Vasilissis Sofias 46 | lat=37.97609 | long=23.75058 | directions= | phone=+30 210 728 1000 | tollfree= | checkin=16:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | wikipedia=Hilton Athens | image=| wikidata=Q18918653 | lastedit=2021-01-27 | content=Just south of the Kolonaki district, this is the biggest hotel with the biggest pool in Athens. Fifteen floors and wonderful views everywhere you look. Also the "Milos Restaurant" is on site. }} *{{sleep | name=President Hotel Athens | alt= | url=http://www.president.gr | email= | address=43 Kifissias Avenue, 11523, Athens | lat=37.98928 | long=23.76369 | directions=Nearest metro station is Ambelokipoi, which is on Alexandras avenue. 5 min walk from Alexandras avenue is Kifissias avenue, and the hotel is 5 min walk from that junction. | phone=+30 2106989000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=~€80 per night for a double bed room | content=A 4-star hotel renovated in 2004 with a lovely terrace bar and pool, 3 restaurants with view of the Lycabetus hill, and very accommodating personnel. The hotel is in an ideal location for catching the bus or the metro for the north suburbs of Athens (Kifisia, Marousi, Chalandri etc). Acropolis, Lycabetus hill, Syntagma square are all within 5 to 15 min taxi drive. }} * {{sleep | name=Royal Olympic Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.royalolympic.com/ | email= | address=28-34 Diakou Athanasiou | lat=37.96783 | long=23.73233 | directions= | phone=+30 210-928-8400 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=In front of the Temple of Zeus and a few steps away from Plaka. Outdoor swimming pool, rooftop garden restaurant. Free wi fi and conference room available. }} * {{sleep | name=Electra Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.electrahotels.gr | email= | address=5, Ermou str. Syntagma Square | lat=37.97561 | long=23.73303 | directions= | phone=+30 210 33-78-000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A 4-star property in the heart of Athens. Within walking distance from all major historical sites and the business and commercial districts. }} * {{sleep | name=Grande Bretagne Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.grandebretagne.gr/ | email= | address=1 Vasileos Georgiou A' str | lat=37.97651 | long=23.73549 | directions=North edge of Syntagma square | phone=+30 210 3330000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Prices from €300 | wikidata=Q1630906 | content=Traditionally the "best hotel in town," this historic luxury hotel with gilded woods, fine fabrics and chandeliers in the public areas has long been the accommodation of choice for visiting diplomats and power players. }} * {{sleep | name=King George Palace | alt= | url=http://www.classicalhotels.com/?siteid=2 | email= | address=3 Vassileos Georgiou A' St, Syntagma Square | lat=37.97643 | long=23.73496 | directions= | phone=+30 210 32-22-210 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Some rooms have a view of the Acropolis, and the Royal Presidential Suite has a private outdoor pool. The Tudor restaurant on the 7th floor has views of the Acropolis. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn | alt= | url=http://www.hiathens.com | email=info@hiathens.com | address=Attica Avenue 40.2 km, Peania| lat=37.9718 | long=23.8802 | directions=between exits 17 & 18 | phone=+30 210 668-9000 | tollfree= | fax=+30 210 668-9500 | price= €100 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Close to airport, it offers stylish rooms with Wi-Fi internet. Hotel houses the Ruby Restaurant and Golden Bar. Hotel offers complimentary gym, the sauna, indoor pool and the jacuzzi to its guest and free shuttle bus service to the airport daily but at a specific time table. }} * {{sleep | name=Hellenic Vibes | alt= | url=https://www.hellenicvibes.gr | email=info@hellenicvibes.gr | address=Agias Irinis 7, Athens 105 51| lat=37.9770090323007 | long=23.727248284533765 | directions=straight down the road | phone=+30 210 32 40 504 | tollfree= | fax= | price= €150 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Hellenic Vibes Smart Hotel is a brand new 5-star hotel right in the heart of rebranded Athens, with a capacity of 35 rooms and exclusive suites, is located behind the doors of an impressive neoclassical facade of the 19th century, only a few steps from Monastiraki and Agia Irini Square. |lastedit=2022-11-04}} == Connect == As of Sept 2021, Athens has 5G from Cosmote and Vodafone, and 4G from Wind Mobile. Wifi is widely available in public places. '''100 Hellenic Police''' '''166 Hellenic Emergency Center''' '''199 Hellenic Firefighters''' '''112 European number of Emergency''' '''11888 Phones menu''' ==Stay safe== {{cautionbox| '''Visitors should always carry their passport or identity documents, especially if they may be perceived as an African, Middle Eastern or another darker-complexion ethnicity.''' Such persons should be especially wary when encountering police and, if detained, demand to speak to their consulate immediately (a right all persons have under international law). (''Updated February 2022'')}} While Athens is '''generally a safe city''', there have been '''a huge number reports of pickpockets''' on the Metro (especially at the interchanges with the line from the Airport), buses and in other crowded areas, including Plaka. You will notice that natives travel with their hands on their bags and pockets and keeping their bag in front rather than on their side or back, which unfortunately is not without reason. You will probably be warned about pickpockets by hotel staff and friendly waiters, but this may be too late. Be extremely cautious and divide all your documents, cards and money into different places. Street crime is rare; when it happens, it's most commonly purse-snatching from women walking away from banks and ATM machines. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The '''friendly stranger''' [[Greece#Scams|bar scam]] has been reported from areas of central Athens frequented by tourists, including [[Omonia]], [[Syntagma]], and [[Plaka]]. There have been some reports of fraud. Usually, someone will stop you and ask for directions. A couple of other men then arrive claiming to be police, showing a badge (obviously a fake one). They ask if you were getting drugs from the other man and then ask for your passport and wallet for verification. While you are busy trying to convince them that your passport is valid, one of them sneaks out some money from your wallet. [[File:Patission Avenue.JPG|thumb|Patission Avenue, one of the busiest streets in Athens]] Athens is one of the most political cities in Europe. '''Demonstrations and riots''' are common and accepted as part of everyday life and democracy by most Athenians. Keep abreast of [http://www.livinlovin.gr/strikes-work-stoppages-in-greece-updated/ news of demonstrations], and avoid them if you don't want to run the risk of being arrested or tear-gassed. '''Anarchist groups''' often clash with police, or target governments buildings or perceived representations of gentrification during the night, mainly in Exarcheia. It is unlikely that tourists would be hurt, as the anarchists usually take care to attack only property and police as opposed to civilians. Parking in Exarcheia overnight could result in your car being damaged. The football rivalry between local club Panathinaikos and Piraeus-based Olympiacos is notoriously intense, and has on occasion resulted in violent confrontations between opposing fans. To be safe, avoid wearing Olympiacos shirts while you are in Athens, especially during matchday, or it could result in you being harassed or even singled out for violence by opposing fans. ===Rough areas=== Athenians hold '''negative perceptions''' for the areas around Omonia Square and locals advise you to avoid these areas late at night. The area is notorious for pickpockets and prostitutes, and there are many people who use drugs in the open even during the day and this can be a harrowing sight for those not used to it. A particular place to avoid is Vathi square and the area between Agiou Konstantinou and Karolou/Marni. The Philopappou Hill area should be avoided at night. The back streets of [[Piraeus]] are probably also places where its unwise to wander around late at night. ==Cope== ===Embassies and representative offices=== * {{flag|Armenia}} {{listing | name=Armenia | url=http://greece.mfa.am/en/ | email=embassy.athens@mfa.am | address=95 Konstantinou Paleologou Ave, Khalandri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2106831130 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2106831183 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Australia}} {{listing | name=Australia |alt=| url=https://greece.embassy.gov.au/athn/home.html | email=ae.athens@dfat.gov.au | address=Level 6, Thon Building, Kifissias & Alexandras Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2108704000 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2108704111 | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2021-01-02| content= }} * {{flag|Austria}} {{listing | name=Austria | url= | email=athen-ob@bmei.gv.at | address=Vass. Sofias Avenue 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107257270 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107257292 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Brazil}} {{listing | name=Brazil | alt= | url=http://atenas.itamaraty.gov.br/en-us/ | email=embragre@embratenas.gr | address=Platia Filikis Eterias 14 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107213039, +30 2107234450 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107244731 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Bulgaria}} {{listing | name=Bulgaria | url= | email=embassbg@otenet.gr | address=Stratigou Kallari 33A, Psychiko | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2106748106, +30 2106748107, +30 2106748108 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2106748130 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Canada}} {{listing | name=Canada |alt=| url=https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/greece-grece/athens-athenes.aspx?lang=eng | email=athns@international.gc.ca | address=Ioannou Gennadiou 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107273400 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107273480 | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2021-01-02| content= }} * {{flag|China}} {{listing | name=China | url=http://gr.china-embassy.org/eng/ | email=chinaemb_gr@mfa.gov.cn | address=Dimokratias 10-12, Psychiko | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2106783840 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2106723819 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Colombia}} {{listing | name=Colombia | url=https://colombianconsulate.gr/ | email=info@colombianconsulate.gr | address=Kyprou 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 210 623 1453 | tollfree= | fax=+30 210 623 1877 | hours= | price= | content=(Consulate). |alt=|wikidata=|wikipedia=|image=|lastedit=2017-04-22}} * {{flag|Croatia}} {{listing | name=Croatia | url= | email=croemb.athens@mvpei.hr | address=Tzavela 4, Psychiko | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2106777033, +30 2106777037, +30 2106777049 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2106711208 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Cyprus}} {{listing | name=Cyprus | url=http://www.mfa.gov.cy/mfa/Embassies/Embassy_Athens.nsf/DMLhouse_gr/DMLhouse_gr?OpenDocument | email=cyempkl@hol.gr | address=2A Xenofontos Avenue | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2103734800 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107258886 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Denmark}} {{listing | name=Denmark | url=http://graekenland.um.dk/ | email=athamb@um.dk | address=Mourouzi 10 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107256440 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107256473 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Egypt}} {{listing | name=Egypt |alt=| url=https://www.egyptembassy.org/location/greece/egypt-embassy-athens/ | email=embassyegypt@yahoo.com | address=3, Vassilli Sophias Avenue | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2103618612 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2103603538 | hours=08:30-16:00 | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2021-01-02| content= }} * {{flag|Estonia}} {{listing | name=Estonia | alt= | url=https://athens.mfa.ee/ | email=embassy.athens@mfa.ee | address=Messoghion Ave, Athens Tower Bldg 2-4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107475660 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107475661 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Finland}} {{listing | name=Finland |alt=| url=https://finlandabroad.fi/web/grc/frontpage | email=sanomat.ate@formin.fi | address=Hatziyianni Mexi 5 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107255860 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107255864 | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2021-01-02| content= }} * {{flag|France}} {{listing | name=France |alt=| url=https://gr.ambafrance.org/ | email=ambafran@first.gr | address=Vass.Sofias Ave 7 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2103391000 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2103391009 | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2021-01-02| content= }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany | url=http://athen.diplo.de/ | email=info@athen.diplo.de | address=Karaoli & Dimitriou 3 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107285111 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107285335 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Hungary}} {{listing | name=Hungary | alt= | url=https://athen.mfa.gov.hu/ | email=mission.ath@kum.hu | address=Karneadou 25-29 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107256800 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107256840 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|India}} {{listing | name=India |alt=| email=indembassy@ath.forthnet.gr | address=Kleanthous 3 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107216481, +30 2107216227 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107211252 | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2020-11-21| content= }} * {{flag|Indonesia}}{{listing | name=Indonesia | alt= | url=https://kemlu.go.id/athens | email=athena.kbri@kemlu.go.id | address=99, Marathonodromon Street, 15452 Paleo Psychico, PO.BOX : 65181 | lat=38.011588 | long=23.781152 | directions= | phone=+30 210 677-7692, +30 210 674-2345 | tollfree=+30 694 646 0015 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q75401840 | lastedit=2018-01-15 | content= }} * {{flag|Ireland}} {{listing | name=Ireland |alt=| url=https://www.dfa.ie/irish-embassy/greece/ | email=athensembassy@dfa.ie | address=Vass.Constantinou Ave 7 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107232771, +30 2107238645, +30 2107232405 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107293383 | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2021-01-02| content= }} * {{flag|Israel}} {{listing | name=Israel | alt= | url=http://embassies.gov.il/athens/ | email=ambass-sec@athens.mfa.gov.il | address=Marathonodromon 1, Psychiko | lat=37.99856 | long=23.76909 | directions= | phone=+30 2106705500 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2106705555 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5369738 | content= }} * {{flag|Italy}} {{listing | name=Italy | alt= | url=https://ambatene.esteri.it/ambasciata_atene/it/ | email=ambasciata.atene@esteri.it | address=Sekeri 2 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2103617260, +30 2103617261, +30 2103617262 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2103617330 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | alt= | url=http://www.gr.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_el/index.html | email=embjapan@otenet.gr | address=Ethnikis Andistaseos 46, Chalandri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2106709900 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2106709980 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Malta}} {{listing | name=Malta Embassy | url= | email=maltaembassy.athens@gov.mt | address=Vass.Sofias Avenue 96 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107785138 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107785242 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Netherlands}} {{listing | name=Netherlands | url=http://mfa.nl/ath | email=ath@minbuza.nl | address=Vass.Konstantinou Avenue 5-7 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107254900 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107254907 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|North Macedonia}} {{listing | name=Republic of North Macedonia | alt= | url=http://www.mfa.gov.mk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=300&Itemid=646&lang=en | email=athens@mfa.gov.mk | address=Papadiamanti 4, P. Psychico | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 210 674 9585 | tollfree= | fax=+30 210 674 9572 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Norway}} {{listing | name=Norway |alt=| url=https://www.norway.no/en/Greece/ | email=emb.athens@mfa.no | address=Vass.Sofias Ave 23 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107246173 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107244989 | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2021-01-02| content= }} * {{flag|Portugal}} {{listing | name=Portugal | url= | email=embportg@otenet.gr | address=Vass.Sofias Ave 23 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107236784, +30 2107290096, +30 2107257505 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107290955 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Romania}} {{listing | name=Romania | alt= | url=https://atena.mae.ro/en | email=atena@mae.ro | address=Emmanouil Benaki 7 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2106728875, +30 2106728876 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2106728883 | hours=M and Th 9:00-15:00; Tu-W 12:00-18:00; F 9:00-13:00 | price= | lastedit=2021-12-03 | content= }} * {{flag|Russia}} {{listing | name=Russia |alt=| url=https://www.russianembassy.net/iservice.nsf/Cons/EmbassyOfRussiaInAthens | email=embraf@otenet.gr | address=Nikiforou Litra 28, Psychiko | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2106725235, +30 2106726130 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2106749708 | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2021-01-02| content= }} * {{flag|Saudi Arabia}} {{listing | name=Saudi Arabia | url= | email=gremb@mofa.gov.sa | address=Marathonodromon 71, Psychiko | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2106716911, +30 2106716912, +30 2106716913 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2106749833 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Serbia}} {{listing | name=Serbia |alt=| url=http://www.athens.mfa.gov.rs/ | email=beograd@hol.gr | address=106, Vassilissis Sophias Ave, Consulate 25, Evrou St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 210 777-43-44, +30 210 777-43-55 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2106749833 | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2021-01-02| content= }} * {{flag|South Africa}} {{listing | name=South Africa | url=http://southafrica.gr/ | email=embassy@southafrica.gr | address=Kifissias Ave 60, Maroussi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2106106645 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2106106640 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Spain}} {{listing | name=Spain |alt=| url=http://www.exteriores.gob.es/embajadas/atenas/es/Paginas/inicio.aspx | email=emb-esp@otenet.gr | address=Dionissiou Areopagitou, 21 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2109213123, +30 2109213237, +30 2109213238 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2109213090 | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2021-01-02| content= }} * {{flag|Sweden}} {{listing | name=Sweden | url=http://www.swedenabroad.com/en-GB/Embassies/Athens/About-us/The-Embassy/ | email=ambassaden.athen@foreign.ministry.se | address=Vass.Konstantinou Ave 7 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107266100 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107266150 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Switzerland}} {{listing | name=Switzerland | url=http://eda.admin.ch/athens | email=vertretung@ath.rep.admin.ch | address=Iassiou 2 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107230364, +30 2107230366, +30 2107299471 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107249209 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Taiwan}} {{Listing|name=Taiwan|alt=|url=https://www.roc-taiwan.org/gr_en/index.html|email=grc@mofa.gov.tw|address=Leof. Marathonodromon 57, Psichiko 154 52|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+30 2106776750|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|wikidata=|lastedit=2021-01-15|content=}} * {{flag|Turkey}} {{listing | name=Turkey | url= | email=info@turkishembasy.ondsl.gr | address=Vass.Georgiou II 8 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107263000 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107229597 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|United Kingdom}} {{listing | name=United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland | alt= | url=http://ukingreece.fco.gov.uk/en/ | email=info@fco.gov.uk | address=Ploutarchou 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2107272600 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2107272723 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States of America | alt= | url=https://gr.usembassy.gov/ | email=usembassy@usembassy.gr | address=Vass.Sofias Ave 91 | lat=37.9822 | long=23.7552 | directions= | phone=+30 2107212951, +30 2107294301 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2106456282 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5369951 | content= }} ==Go next== === Islands === *[[Piraeus]] - the harbour of Athens, and Rafina (on the east coast of Attica) are the departure points for a large number of ferry services to the Greek Islands and other destinations in the eastern Mediterranean, including ports in [[Italy]], [[Egypt]], [[Turkey]], [[Israel]] and [[Cyprus]]. Fast hydrofoil, catamaran or helicopter services also take you to the Greek Islands. Italy is easily approached by boat from Patras (take a train or a bus to Patras). *The port of '''Lavrion''' in southern Attica is being increasingly developed as a ferry port, especially for (some) Cyclades routes. Rafina and, especially, Piraeus remain the main hubs for the Cyclades and the Dodecanese. *The closest islands, suitable for a day trip from '''Piraeus''', are in the Argosaronic (or Saronic) gulf: [[Hydra]], [[Aegina]], [[Poros]], [[Spetses]] and [[Salamina]]. [[Kea]] (also pronounced ''Tzia'') is a very nearby destination, too, less than two hours from the port of Lavrio. If what you are thinking is an island further away from Piraeus, like [[Paros]], [[Naxos]], [[Ios]], [[Santorini]] or any of the Dodecanese or Northern Aegean isles, you should probably consider with extra days off Athens because of their distance from the mainland. Flying is also an option to the more distant islands. === Nearby === * Day trips to the Corinth Canal, the ancient theatre at [[Epidaurus]] and to the ancient sites of [[Olympia (Greece)|Olympia]], [[Delphi]] and [[Mycenae]] are easy with a rental car. Other towns along the [[Peloponnese]] such as [[Nafplion]] are charming and worthwhile. *[[Sounio]], Ktel bus starts from central Athens and also stop in some areas in south Athens, the ticket from the starting point costs €5 and some cents. There is one bus per hour during a day. 1 hour from central Athens by car. === North === * [[Thessaloniki]], second biggest city in Greece, [[Larissa]], [[Karditsa]], [[Trikala]], [[Kalampaka|Kalampaba]] and Katerini. Tickets can be [https://www.hellenictrain.gr/ booked online in advance]. From Thessaloniki, you can travel onwards to [[North Macedonia]] and [[Bulgaria]]. ===By air=== Athens has ultra-low-cost flights to several European countries, to [[Jordan]], [[Israel]], [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]] and to [[Abu Dhabi]] in the [[United Arab Emirates]]. (updated May 2022) {{geo|37.9667|23.7167|zoom=11}} {{isPartOf|Attica}} {{usablecity}} 3k5gtjf58lys2g0bi7j5pmgogcwfyiz 0 2010 5091028 5089763 2025-07-10T19:34:17Z WereSpielChequers 35579 typo 5091028 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Austria-banner1.jpg}} '''Austria''' ([[German phrasebook|German]]: ''Österreich'') is a landlocked German-speaking country in [[Central Europe]]. Austria, along with neighbouring Switzerland, is the winter sports centre of Europe. However, it is just as popular for summer tourists who visit its historic cities and villages and hike in the magnificent scenery of the [[Alps]]. With more than 30 million arrivals (2023) and only about nine million inhabitants, it is one of the most visited countries in the world. <!-- Source: https://pre-webunwto.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/2024-06/Barom_PPT_May_2024.pdf?VersionId=U7O62HatlG4eNAj.wcmuQG1PMCjK.Yss --> ==Regions== Austria is a federal republic comprised of nine states (''Bundesländer''): {{Regionlist | regionmap=Austria-regions.png | regiontext= | regionmapsize=600px | region1name=[[Burgenland]] | region1color=#608860 | region1items= | region1description=Sunny plains and countless wineries along the border with Hungary. Austria's largest (albeit very shallow) lake, Neusiedler See, is a good spot for bird-watching. | region2name=[[Carinthia]] | region2color=#578e86 | region2items= | region2description=Austria's southernmost state is popular for its many lakes, its traditional cuisine, and the peculiar dialect of its inhabitants. | region3name=[[Lower Austria]] | region3color=#a4c28d | region3items= | region3description=The largest state stretches from the Bohemian hills to the peaks of the Alps. The Wachau landscape with the impressive monastery of Melk is a UNESCO world heritage site. | region4name=[[Salzburg (state)|Salzburg]] | region4color=#6698bb | region4items= | region4description=Home to the world-famous city of Salzburg and some of Austria's best-known skiing resorts. Motorists might enjoy crossing the Alps to Carinthia via the famous Glockner-Hochalpenstraße. | region5name=[[Styria]] | region5color=#b383b3 | region5items= | region5description=The mining towns in the North may have seen better days, but the area around Austria's second city, Graz, is booming. Southern Styria is famous for its wineries and Mediterranean charm. | region6name=[[Tyrol]] | region6color=#c8b7b7 | region6items= | region6description=Very touristic state. Has the highest mountains and a lot of very famous ski areas and tourist places ([[Kitzbühel]], [[Ischgl]], [[Sölden]]), but there are also some untouched and wild regions like [[Hohe Tauern National Park]]. | region7name=[[Upper Austria]] | region7color=#c5995c | region7items= | region7description=Less touristy and more industrial, Upper Austria offers great lakes for swimming, mountains for hiking and affordable skiing as well as Austria's third-largest city, Linz. Most famous is the [[Salzkammergut]]. | region8name=[[Vienna]] | region8color=#dde58b | region8items= | region8description=The former capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire is brimming with impressive architecture, cultural institutions and opportunities to explore the cuisines of Austria and pretty much everywhere else. An imperial and cosmopolitan capital in a small country, it forms a marked contrast from the rest of Austria. | region9name=[[Vorarlberg]] | region9color=#71b37b | region9items= | region9description= Austria's gateway to Switzerland and Liechtenstein sometimes feels more Swiss than Austrian, owing in part to the Alemannic dialect of its inhabitants. Famous is [[Lake Constance]] and [[Montafon]] mountains. }} ==Cities== [[File:Innsbruck Flusspromenade.jpg|thumb|View of Innsbruck]] [[File:19-06-14-Graz-Murinsel-Schloßberg-RalfR.jpg|thumb|Graz]] *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Vienna]]|lat=48.2|long=16.366667|wikidata=Q1741}} (''Wien'') — the largest city in Austria, as well as its cultural, economic, and political centre *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bregenz]]|lat=47.505|long=9.749167|wikidata=Q1737}} — famous for the annual summer music festival of Bregenzer Festspiele *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Eisenstadt]]|lat=47.85|long=16.516667|wikidata=Q126321}} — historically the seat of the Eszterházy Hungarian noble family that gave the town its aristocratic feel *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Graz]]|lat=47.066667|long=15.433333|wikidata=Q13298}} — known as Austria's culinary capital and student city *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Innsbruck]]|lat=47.266667|long=11.383333|wikidata=Q1735}} — the cultural, educational and economic centre of Western Austria directly in the heart of the Alps *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Klagenfurt]]|lat=46.616667|long=14.3|wikidata=Q41753}} — scenic town very close to the Wörthersee *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Linz]]|lat=48.3|long=14.283333|wikidata=Q41329}} — a vibrant music and arts scene and a beautiful historic core *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Salzburg]]|lat=47.8|long=13.033333|wikidata=Q34713}} — the birthplace of Mozart; a cultural city with an attractive setting and scenic Alpine backdrop *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Villach]]|lat=46.616667|long=13.85|wikidata=Q483522}} — beautiful ''Altstadt'' surrounded by the Alps and various lakes == Other destinations == [[File:Strobl (50665193478).jpg|thumb|Salzkammergut]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bregenz|Lake Constance]]|lat=47.583333|long=9.466667|wikidata=Q1737}} (''Bodensee'') — a large lake situated in Vorarlberg and shared with Switzerland and Germany *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kaprun]]|lat=47.2725|long=12.759444|wikidata=Q660671}} — part of the Europa Sport Region *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pinswang]]|lat=47.544167|long=10.673056|wikidata=Q681598}} — one of the most ancient settlements of the North Tyrolean Ausserfern, on the border with Bavaria and a short walk or drive to the famous castles of King Ludwig *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Salzkammergut]]|lat=47.559444|long=13.646389|wikidata=Q266703}} — a stunning cultural landscape among mountains and lakes *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Igls]]|wikidata=Q872489}} — a popular ski resort in the shadow of the Patscherkofel mountain near [[Innsbruck]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Thermenland]]|lat=47.048051|long=16.119368|wikidata=Q1622784}} — the great spas of Styria, an easy daytrip from Graz or Vienna *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Wörthersee]]|lat=46.633333|long=14.15|wikidata=Q546146}} — one of Austria's warmest lakes *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Zell am See]]|lat=47.316667|long=12.8|wikidata=Q187572}} — one of the most important alpine tourist towns in Austria *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Eng]]|wikidata=Q1341661}} — the largest alm in [[Europe]] and one of the most remote settlements in the Alps ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationAustria.png}} ''Österreich'' literally means "the Eastern Realm" or "Eastern Empire" in German. ===History=== {{See also|Holy Roman Empire|Austro-Hungarian Empire}} [[File:Neue Burg, Hofburg, Viena, Austria, 2020-01-31, DD 143-145 HDR.jpg|thumb|Night view of Hofburg (the former imperial palace), Vienna]] Today's Austria is what was once the German-speaking core and centre of power for the large multiethnic Austro-Hungarian Empire with its imperial capital in Vienna. This empire stretched eastwards from present-day Austria through much of east-central and south-central Europe. It included the entire territories of modern-day Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, and portions of Serbia, Romania, Ukraine, Poland and Italy, and also had a small colonial possession in [[Tianjin]], [[China]]. While [[Prussia]] united the German states to the north into one "[[German Empire]]" in 1867-1871, Austria remained oriented eastwards towards its diverse empire. However, from the start of the 20th century, the political history of Austria has been closely linked to the misfortunes and disasters of modern German history, mainly the First and Second World Wars and their terrible aftermath. The modern republic of Austria came into being in 1918 as a result of its defeat in [[World War I]]. In its wake, the empire was split into many components. They included Austria's current borders, an independent Hungary, lands given to Italy (South Tyrol, Trieste and Trentino), lands given to southern Poland (which also came about from lands taken from the Russian and German Empires, lands which those three empires had taken from Poland in the three "divisions" that erased Poland from the map for over a century), an independent Czechoslovakia and the northern and western half of Yugoslavia. Interwar Austria was an unstable state with pro-German fascists, pro-independence clerical reactionaries and left wing social democrats fighting over control, sometimes violently and ultimately descending into the "Austro-Fascist" dictatorship of the 1930s. Following an unresisted invasion and annexation by Nazi Germany in 1938, Austria more or less functioned as a part of Nazi Germany during the [[World War II in Europe|Second World War]]. Most of the population supported Hitler (who was himself born in Austria) and Austria's incorporation into Germany, and Austrian soldiers also fought in the Wehrmacht. Cities were bombed heavily by the Allies and concentration camps where [[Holocaust remembrance|the Holocaust]] was perpetrated also existed on Austrian soil (such as Mauthausen near [[Linz]]). [[File:Old Town Salzburg across the Salzach river.jpg|thumb|Salzburg]] It was not until the end of the war that the mood changed and that Austria tried to distance itself from Germany. In 1945, Austria was divided into zones of occupation like Germany. However, unlike Germany, Austria was not subject to any further territorial losses. A treaty signed in 1955 ended the Allied and Soviet occupation, recognized Austria's independence, and forbade future unification with Germany. A constitutional law of that same year declared the country's "perpetual neutrality", a condition for Soviet military withdrawal, and thus saved Austria from Germany's fate as a divided nation with a divided capital. However, the South Tyrol Question (South Tyrol had been part of Austria Hungary before World War I and the German speaking inhabitants felt alienated by the Italian government) took Austria and Italy to the UN in the post-war era and international brokered mitigation found a suitable solution for both countries by the late 1980s. This official neutrality, once ingrained as part of the Austrian cultural identity, has been called into question since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 and Austria's entry into the [[European Union]] in 1995. It took quite a long time after the war for re-examining Austria's Nazi past to become large-scale and accepted as commonplace in the media. After the war, Austria had sought to portray itself as "Hitler's first victim", although Hitler himself was Austrian. This blatant denial of historical fact is now called "the original lie of the Second Republic" by many leftists. A high-profile case of Austria's denial of its past came to the fore when Austrian president and former UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim was embroiled in a scandal in the early 1990s due to having been a member of the SA during the war. To this day, Austria has a harder time being frank about its Nazi past than Germany and far-right Burschenschaften still play an important role in the politics of FPÖ and to some extent ÖVP leading to occasional scandals. Post-1945 Austrian politics were dominated by "grand coalitions" between the "red" centre-left SPÖ and the "black" centre-right ÖVP. This meant that important posts in government and the civil service were shared out according to ''Proporz'' (~proportionality) among "red" and "black". Whatever the faults of this system, it helped prevent the extremely violent and unstable politics Austria had had to endure in the interwar era when "reds" and "blacks" were pitted against each other in open hostility. With the 1999 coalition between the ÖVP and the far-right FPÖ, this consensus-oriented way of making politics started to crumble, and Austrian politics has since become a lot more like the politics of other European countries. A prosperous country, Austria entered the European Monetary Union in 1999, and the euro currency replaced the schilling in 2002. Austria is also part of "borderless Europe", resulting in many students from all over the European Union studying in Austrian universities and vice versa. As the rules for entry to Austrian universities are different from those in Germany, many German students of subjects such as medicine have gone to Austria to study in the last couple of decades. This may from time to time cause friction, but this is mostly tongue-in-cheek and not all that serious. Austria is one of the most popular summer and winter holiday destinations in Europe and has the tourist industry to match it. ===Culture=== [[File:Otto of Austria funeral Poecking2.jpg|thumb|Men in traditional Tyrolean dress]] Austria is a federation. Each of its nine federal states has a unique and distinct culture. Austrians aren't easy to categorize. In fact, the main reason Austrians stand out from their European neighbors is that they don't stand out from the rest for anything in particular. Austrians are moderate in their outlook and behavior. Being at Europe's crossroads, their culture is influenced from several sides. The stereotype of the yodelling, thigh slapping, beer-swilling (schnitzel-eating) xenophobe may apply to a few individuals but it certainly doesn't apply to the majority of Austrians. The average Austrian on the street is likely to be friendly yet somewhat reserved and formal, softly spoken and well mannered, law abiding, socially conservative, rooted, family-oriented, conformist and somewhat nepotistic, a Roman Catholic at heart, not particularly religious but a follower of tradition, well educated if not as cosmopolitan as some of his/her other European cousins, cynical, and equipped with a dry, sarcastic sense of humour. Austrian social life, in general, seems to be less reserved than its northern European counterparts, yet Austrians exhibit a slightly more introverted disposition. Austrians love to socialise and celebrate together, though not in an overly exuberant or overly public manner. [[File:Almabtrieb nach Bad Kleinkirchheim (4856571243).jpg|thumb|Especially in western Austria, and similar to Bavaria and Switzerland, there are many cultural folklore events and traditions.]] [[File:Der Abtenauer Perchtenlauf 2017- 12.jpg|thumb|These folk customs often stem from the hard life in the mountains and the annual cycle. Nowadays, however, they are often presented in a touristy way.]] [[File:Felsenreitschule 2013 03.jpg|thumb|But there are is also a distinct classical culture...]] Austrians generally like to define themselves merely by what they are ''not''. Tourists often make the mistake of classifying Austrians as Germans, which despite a common language (well at least on paper), they are not. Arguably, Southern Germany, especially Bavaria, is a close cultural relative of Austria in many ways. Indeed, the regions of Austria are all similar to their neighbours, so you will not notice you have crossed a border, whether it be into South Tyrol in Italy, north to Bavaria or east to Hungary. [[File:20140615-150-Nova Rock 2014.JPG|thumb|...and alternative culture.]] Austria and Germany are sister nations and enjoy warm relations, but Mozart was Austrian, or a Salzburger for the record, not German! For most of its history, Austrians have a hard time defining their own nation; they face perhaps the most media influence from Germany but have a very different culture, especially from northern Germany. The historic minorities and individual cultures are valued, yet they have to struggle to survive. An important minority are the Carinthian Slovenes, who surprisingly voted to stay part of Austria (rather than become part of the newly formed Yugoslav state) after World War I. While this "heroic" act of "national self-preservation" was much mytholygised in the past, Jörg Haider of the far-right FPÖ got his start in politics in Carinthia by catering to SS veterans and calling into question the right of Carinthian Slovenes to have bilingual town signs in places where they form a significant part of the population. Austria has a long history of being a multicultural country: a glance at the Vienna phone book is all you need to discover this. Ironically, it is Germany to the north that is paving the way regarding the integration of foreigners into society in Central Europe. Austria, with the exception of Vienna, remains a largely conservative country. On the other hand, in comparison to other Central European countries, it is still relatively liberal with modern social policies (such as gay marriage, assisted suicide, and immigration laws). Indeed, the cultural conflicts and national identity are as complicated and difficult to understand for many Austrians as they are for visitors! The level of personal awareness and views on this vary greatly from person to person but are generally subject to a particularly Austrian avoidance of the subject. It is best to try to see the diversity and enjoy the variety than to jump to conclusions. Hence many Austrians derive their identity from their region or ''Bundesland'' (state). For instance, typical inhabitants of Carinthia would say that they are Carinthian first and Austrian second and maybe European third. Asking what state someone is from is normally the first question Austrians ask when meeting for the first time. The fact that Austrians dislike demonstrations of national identity can, however, also be explained partly by the historical experiences Austria had during the Third Reich and especially due to the violent use of national symbols in the growing Austrofascist movement and by the far-right Freedom Party. It is also because the current state of Austria is a relatively young and loose federal republic of just 8 million people. However, the University of Chicago's National Opinion Research Center rates Austria as the 5th most patriotic country in the world. So Austrians do very much love their country but are unlikely to be flag-wavers. Perhaps Austria's ascendancy to the EU in 1995 and its adoption of the euro and the border-less Europe have given it a stronger sense of importance and self-worth in the greater context of Europe. Most Austrians like to enjoy the good life. They spend a lot of time eating, drinking and having a good time with friends in a cozy environment, and are therefore very hospitable. Members of the older generation can be conservative in the sense that they frown upon extremes of any shape and form and, in general, are adverse to change. They enjoy one of the highest living standards in the world and want to keep it that way. Austria has no well-defined class system. The regional differences tend to be greater than in neighboring countries. Generally, the further rural you go, the more socially conservative people are. Due to tourism, rural areas are still quite open and rich compared to other countries. ===Politics=== Austria is a parliamentary federal republic consisting of nine federal states (see list below). The head of the state is the '''federal president''' (''Bundespräsident''), who is elected directly by the people for a term of six years. His/her function is mainly representative, however, and the '''federal chancellor''' (''Bundeskanzler''), elected by a majority of the lower chamber of the parliament, runs most of the day-to-day politics. The Austrian parliament consists of two chambers, the ''Nationalrat'' (National Council) as the main chamber, and the ''Bundesrat'' (Federal Council). The members of the National Council are elected every five years by popular vote, and the members of the Federal Council are elected by each of the state parliaments for 4- to 6-year terms. The composition of the Bundesrat changes after every election to a state's parliament. There are three major parties in Austria: the Social Democratic Party (SPÖ), the (conservative) Austrian People's Party (ÖVP), and the (right-wing) Freedom Party (FPÖ). Historically, SPÖ and ÖVP were the two dominant forces in Austrian politics. Between the re-emergence of the Austrian Republic after World War II and the late 1980s each party usually got between 40% and 50% of the votes and governed either alone or together in 'grand coalitions' (interrupted only by a brief SPÖ-FPÖ coalition between 1983 and 1987). During that time they also divided up practically all positions of influence in Austria between them (''Proporz''). From 1990 onwards, this system began to crumble due to people's dissatisfaction with 'politics as usual' and the rise of the FPÖ under its leader Jörg Haider who introduced a new brand of anti-foreigner populism to Austrian politics. After the 1999 elections in which both SPÖ and ÖVP did dismally and the FPÖ reached second place, a new coalition was formed between ÖVP and FPÖ. As the then first and only government to include right-wing populists in the European Union, the new Austrian leadership was shunned by the heads of government of the other fourteen EU member states. In the following elections the FPÖ did badly due to internal squabbles and the fact that the reality of government could not live up to its promises. Between 2006 and 2017 Austria was again governed by a series of SPÖ-ÖVP coalitions. After elections in 2017, the ÖVP under its new leader, former foreign minister Sebastian Kurz, formed a coalition with the FPÖ. Both parties had increased their share of the vote, promising a tougher stance on migration and supposed 'Islamisation' following an influx of refugees and migrants into Austria in 2015. A corruption scandal in the FPÖ led to the early breakdown of the coalition and snap elections in 2019, after which Chancellor Kurz formed a coalition with the Greens. In the 2024 elections, the FPÖ reached first place, however, the president decided to give the instruction to form a government, for the first time in the second republic, to the party with the second to most mandates - the ÖVP - instead. After ÖVP, SPÖ and NEOS failed to form a coalition, the FPÖ was supposed to form a government. Talks with the ÖVP were started, but ended without success. In a second try, ÖVP, SPÖ and NEOS managed to form a coalition with Christian Stocker as the new Austrian Chancellor. ===Geography=== [[File:Dürnstein, center.jpg|thumb|250px|Dürnstein/Wachau]] Contrary to popular perceptions, Austria is not all about mountains. While the Alps do cover 3/4 of the country dominating the provinces of Vorarlberg, Tyrol, Salzburg, Styria, Upper Austria and Carinthia, the eastern provinces of Lower Austria, the Burgenland and the federal capital of Vienna are more similar to the geography of the neighboring Czech Republic and Hungary. This diverse mix of landscapes is packed into a relatively small area of size. Glaciers, meadows, alpine valleys, wooded foothills, gently rolling farmland, vineyards, river gorges, plains and even semi-arid steppes can be found in Austria. One quarter of Austria's population lives in Greater Vienna, a European metropolis, located where the Danube meets the easternmost fringe of the Alps, not far from the border with Slovakia and its capital Bratislava. Virtually all government, financial and cultural institutions, as well as national media and large corporations are based in Vienna, due largely to history and geography. Thus, the capital dominates Austria's cultural and political life and is clearly a world unto its own. It has little to do with the rest of mainly rural Austria and outside of Graz, Salzburg, Innsbruck and Linz there really are no other large scale cities in the country. There is a playful joke told in Vorarlberg province regarding the dominance of Vienna regarding national affairs that reads, "the people of western Austria make the money and Vienna spends it." ===Climate=== Austria has a temperate continental climate. Summers last from early June to mid-September and can be hot in some years and rainy in others. Day-time temperatures in July and August are around 25°C (77°F), but can often reach 35°C (95°F). Winters are cold in the lowlands and very harsh in the Alpine region with temperatures often dropping below -10°C (14°F). Winters last from December to March (longer at higher altitudes). In the Alpine region large temperature fluctuations occur all year round and nights are chilly even in high summer. The northern Alps are generally a lot wetter than the rest of the country. The South East (Styria and Carinthia) is dry and sunny. The area around Vienna often experiences strong easterly winds. ===Electricity=== Electricity is supplied at 220 to 230 V 50&nbsp;Hz. Outlets are the European standard CEE-7/7 "Schukostecker" or "Schuko" or the compatible, but non-grounded, CEE-7/16 "Europlug" types. Generally speaking, U.S. and Canadian travellers should pack an adapter and a converter for these outlets if they plan to use North American electrical equipment in Austria. ===Tourist information === * {{listing | name=Tourist information website | alt= | url= https://www.austria.info/en | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-02-02 | content= }} ==Get in== ===Visa=== {{infobox|Minimum validity of travel documents|* EU, EEA and Swiss citizens, as well as non-EU citizens who are visa-exempt (e.g. New Zealanders and Australians), need only produce a passport which is valid for the entirety of their stay in Austria. * Other nationals who are required to have a visa (e.g. South Africans), however, must produce a passport which has '''at least 3 months' validity''' beyond their period of stay in Austria. * More information about the minimum validity of travel documents is available at the [http://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/embassy/ottawa/practical-advice/travelling-to-austria/entry-permits-visa.html Austrian Foreign Ministry's website].}} {{Schengen}} One of the best ways to stay in the country for longer than 90 days is to study on a study visa, for example by studying on a TEFL course. ===By plane=== There are six airports in Austria with scheduled flights. The most important international airport is [[Vienna airport]] ({{IATA|VIE}}) which has connection to most major airports of the world. In the neighbouring town of Schwechat, it's the hub of Austrian Airlines, now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lufthansa. There are smaller international airports in [[Graz]], [[Innsbruck]], [[Klagenfurt]], [[Linz]], and [[Salzburg (city)|Salzburg]] which mainly offer connections to European destinations. For traveling to Western Austria it may make sense to fly into [[Munich airport]] ({{IATA|MUC}}) and [[Memmingen#By plane|Memmingen]] ({{IATA|FMM}}). From Munich airport there are regular train connections and Flixbus connections to the state capitals Salzburg and Innsbruck. While [[Bratislava]] ({{IATA|BTS}}) does not have nearly as many connections as Munich or Vienna, it is only about 70 kilometers from Vienna and there is a direct bus service. The most common airports to visit [[Vorarlberg]] are Altenrhein ({{IATA|ACH}}) via Austrian, Friedrichshafen ({{IATA|FDH}}) and Zürich ({{IATA|ZRH}}). If visiting Austria for winter sports, choose the airport considering cost and duration for the whole trip (plane and transfer). Vienna is a 4-hour drive from the nearest medium-sized ski resort. ''See more in the Get In section of [[Winter sports in Austria#Get in|Winter sports in Austria]].'' ===By bus=== The bus is not always the cheapest way to travel, though impressive discounts for advance bookings exist for long-distance travel (as far as from Warsaw for {{EUR|1}}). The bus may also be the cheapest option if you want to travel at short notice or if you have large amounts of luggage. Bus travel is especially interesting for those coming from the East as there are many buses into [[Vienna]] and they are often faster than trains. Information about their assorted services and pricing is can be found in [[Vienna#By bus|that section]]. '''[http://www.flixbus.com Flixbus]''', the major player in most of Europe serves a number of cities in Austria. Most of the companies that run [[Intercity buses in Germany]] serve major Austrian cities as well. ===By car=== [[File:Europabruecke von osten.jpg|thumb|Europabrücke (Europe bridge) on the A13/E45 motorway between Innsbruck and the Italian border, an important north–south route across the Alps]] Austria and all its neighbouring countries are Schengen members so in theory there are no border controls. For using the ''Autobahnen'' or ''Schnellstraßen'', a vignette, or tax sticker, must be purchased and displayed on the wind-shield. Costs are {{EUR|86.40}} for one year, {{EUR|25.90}} for 2 months, or {{EUR|8.90}} for 10 days and can be purchased at most service stations before the border and at the border. Some major tunnels have an additional toll of between {{EUR|4}} and {{EUR|10}}. On some Saturdays in July and August expect traffic jams on the motorways between Germany, Austria and Italy when millions of German tourists head south at the beginning of school vacations. A delay of about 2 hours is not unusual. The motorway A10 between Salzburg and Villach is especially notorious. It's best to avoid those Saturdays. ==== From Germany ==== * Motorway A8 from [[Munich]] to [[Salzburg (city)|Salzburg]]. * Motorway A93 from [[Rosenheim]] via [[Kufstein]] to [[Innsbruck]], [[Tyrol]]. * E43 (A96) from Leutkirch via Wangen to [[Bregenz]], [[Vorarlberg]]. * Motorway A3/E56 from [[Regensburg]] via [[Passau]] to [[Linz]], [[Upper Austria]]. ==== From Italy ==== * Motorway A23 to [[Villach]], [[Carinthia]]. * E45 via Brenner to [[Innsbruck]], [[Tyrol]]. Considering the overall limited distances, it is very easy to drive to Austria from Northern Italy. From Bolzano, Innsbruck is only 1½ hours away, while it takes about 3 hours to reach Salzburg from either Bolzano or Udine. Vienna is a little further away; about 5½ hours from Bolzano, 6 hours from Venice and 8 from Milan. Some of the Italy-Austria border crossings are famous among cycling enthusiasts and admirers of alpine scenery, such as the Resia pass, the Rombo pass and the Vizze pass, while the borders between Friuli and the Austrian region of Carinthia are less traveled: they are the Monte Croce Carnico pass, the Pramollo pass and the Coccau pass, near Tarvisio, where the A23 motorway ends. In detail, the active crossings throughout the year between Italy and Austria are: Brenner Pass, along the A22 motorway (or the state road 12), connecting Bolzano to Innsbruck; Passo Resia, starting from Merano, leads to the border between Austria and Switzerland along state roads 38 and 40; Passo del Tarvisio, along the A23 motorway and once in Austria the A2, connects Udine to Villach; Passo di San Candido which connects Dobbiaco to Lienz via the state road 49; Passo di Monte Croce Carnico, along the SS 52bis it connects Tolmezzo with Mauthen; Passo di Pramollo, reachable by exiting the A23 in Pontebba. There are also two seasonal passes, usually closed from November to May, namely: Passo Stalle connects the Anterselva valley with the Defereggental in East Tyrol; the Passo del Rombo, north of Merano, along the provincial road 44bis. ==== From Slovenia ==== * E61 from [[Ljubljana]] to [[Villach]], [[Carinthia]] (via Karawankentunnel). * E57 from [[Maribor]] to [[Graz]], [[Styria]]. ==== From Hungary ==== * Motorway M1 (E60) from [[Budapest]] to [[Vienna]] (Hegyeshalom-Nickelsdorf Border Crossing) ==== From Slovakia ==== * Motorway D4 (E58) from [[Bratislava]] to Vienna (Jarovce-Kittsee Border Crossing) ===By train=== :''See also'' [[Rail travel in Europe]] [[File:Railjet logo.svg|thumb|130x130px|ÖBB railjet]] Austria is very well connected by rail. Every neighbouring country (yes, even Liechtenstein) has trains to and from Austria at least hourly. Many (Czech Republic, Hungary, Germany, Slovakia, Switzerland) even more frequently. Vienna is the largest rail hub, but day and night trains from most Central European countries travel to many destinations across Austria. The '''ÖBB''' (Austrian federal railways) operate [[high-speed rail|high-speed]] ''RailJet'' trains in cooperation with railways of neighbouring countries like Deutsche Bahn or Česke Dráhy from cities like [[Zürich]], [[Munich]], [[Frankfurt]], [[Berlin]], [[Prague]], [[Venice]], [[Verona]] and [[Budapest]]. ''Eurocity'' trains are the next fastest trains available, comparable to the ''Intercity'' trains connecting the bigger Austrian cities. Additionally private train companies [https://westbahn.at/ '''Westbahn'''] and [https://regiojet.at/ '''Regiojet'''] also offer international train connections at sometimes cheaper prices than ÖBB. [[Sleeper trains]] from ÖBB now cover several European countries (even some far-off points) at competitive rates under their [https://www.nightjet.com/en/#/home Nightjet] brand. ÖBB is also acquiring new rolling stock to expand its night train service. While these are much slower than day trains, they can save you a night's accommodation while delivering you to your destination. There is also a sleeper train from [https://www.europeansleeper.eu/ European Sleeper] in winter season to Tyrol. ===From Slovakia=== * There's a pontoon bridge for pedestrians and cyclists only just south of the Austrian-Czech-Slovak border tripoint, between '''Hohenau an der March''' (Austria) and '''Moravský Svätý Ján''' (Slovakia). * The urban traffic company of Bratislava (DPB) runs a cross-border bus line no. 901 between '''Hainburg an der Donau''' (Austria) and '''Bratislava''' (Slovakia), with a stop also in the Austrian town of Wolfsthal. In Bratislava, the terminus is the stop ''Nový most''. * There's a pontoon ferry accessible to car-drivers and pedestrians between '''Angern an der March''' (Austria) and '''Záhorská Ves''' (Slovakia). Open 05:00-22:00. ==Get around== ===By train and bus=== [[File:Railjet 793 bei Bad Hofgastein.jpg|thumb|ÖBB Railjet train]] [[File:WESTbahn KISS bei Sulgen.jpg|thumb|Westbahn]] {{Main|Rail travel in Austria}} Trains are the best and most common form of mass transportation in Austria. Comfortable and moderately priced trains connect major cities and many towns; buses serve less significant towns and lakes. The two forms of transport are integrated and designed to complement eqach other, and intercity coaches exist but don't provide anywhere near the level of intercity rail service. Between Vienna, Linz, and Salzburg trains run every 30 minutes or even more frequently. Trains between Vienna, Graz Innsbruck and Bregenz operate at least hourly. The 2½-hour train ride to Graz takes you along one of the world's oldest mountain railways (Semmeringbahn). 14 tunnels and 16 viaducts were built to cross the Alps. ÖBB-operated trains, especially trains between Vienna and Graz and ICE trains to Linz and between Salzburg and Carinthia, may use coaches owned by other countries' national operators, just check the train number. Railjet (RJ or RJX) trains '''to Vienna Airport''' are split at Vienna Main Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof), with only one half of the train going to the airport and the other half going to Budapest. '''Be careful to board the correct part of the train!''' Austrian trains are operated mostly by state-owned company [http://www.oebb.at ÖBB]. The [http://www.gysev.hu Raaberbahn (GySEV)] provides some trains across the Austrian-Hungarian border and there are some short private railways with tourist trains which supplement rather than compete with the ÖBB. The only competitor to ÖBB is '''[http://www.westbahn.at WestBahn].''' Westbahn has connections from Vienna to all states except Burgenland. Instead of Wien Meidling and Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Main Station) stations, it serves Wien Hütteldorf and Wien Westbahnhof (Vienna Western Station), which are otherwise mainly served by commuter trains. It depends, but the price is generally a little cheaper than with ÖBB. [[File:Semmering - Semmeringbahn, 20-Schilling-Blick.JPG|thumb|Semmeringbahn]] Long-distance bus connections are not as common as train travel in Austria. The main operator is FlixBus, but there are also a few connections from Eurolines. ====Tickets and reservations==== [[File:Salzburg - Hauptbahnhof (11629240915).jpg|thumb|At Salzburg main rail station. To the left, a German DB train, to the right an Austrian ÖBB train]] Train tickets can be purchased via the ÖBB [http://www.oebb.at/ website] and ÖBB ticket app for Android and iOS. There are also ticket machines at all sizable train stations and onboard some regional trains. When boarding regional trains you are required to have purchased a ticket before boarding, if it is possible to buy a ticket via railway office or vending machine at the station you are departing from. On long-distance trains (RailJet (RJ and RJX), Intercity-Express (ICE), Intercity (IC), Eurocity (EC), Interregio) you can also buy tickets from the conductor on board, but the price is much higher. In general, you don't need to make a reservation for trains in Austria, even on long-distance services. However, reservations are recommended on peak times (mainly at weekends) due to high demand and in some rare cases are mandatory due to very high demand. For reservations and train capacity check the ÖBB website or the ticket app. Always compare the fares of the Westbahn with those of the ÖBB and the departure railways in other countries (Magyar Államvasutak, České dráhy, Deutsche Bahn,...) or even the railways of the transit countries, as there may be price differences even for the same train. ÖBB has discount offers based on dynamic pricing called "SparSchiene" tickets. There are a limited number of tickets at this price. Additional offers are available to all countries in Central Europe, although some cannot be booked online. The ÖBB sell domestic tickets using a price based only upon distance traveled, regardless of when you buy the ticket and which train you take. Base fare is rather expensive, but Austrian Railways offer some interesting [[Rail travel in Austria#Discounts|discounts]]. === Local transport === [[File:Postbus BD 14370 am Griesplatz.jpg|thumb|Postbus]] Local and urban transport in Austria is very good, with a high density of connections and networks. Public transport is particularly good in the cities. Vienna, Graz, Linz, Innsbruck, Baden and the town of Gmunden have tram systems and in Vienna you will also find a metro system. Tourist towns in the countryside have also invested a lot of money in building up a transport network that can often be used free of charge (ask at the tourist office). In sparsely populated areas, connections are less frequent. Regional bus lines are mostly organised by province: * Vorarlberg: [https://www.vmobil.at/ Vmobil] * Tyrol: [https://www.vvt.at/ VVT] * Salzburg: [https://salzburg-verkehr.at/en/ Salzburg Verkehr] * Carinthia: [https://www.kaerntner-linien.at/ Kärntner Linien] * Upper Austria: [https://www.ooevv.at/en/index.html OÖVV] * Styria: [https://www.verbundlinie.at/en/ Verbund Linie] * Lower Austria, Vienna and Burgenland: [https://www.vor.at/en/ VOR] You can buy local transport tickets from ticket machines (also from ÖBB ticket machines) or through the ÖBB app for the whole country. === Public transport planning === There is a route planning app called ''[https://fahrplan.oebb.at/webapp ÖBB Scotty]'' available as web app and for Android and iOS, which takes into account all forms of public transport in the country and all international connections (even private operated train connections). When using regional bus lines, the apps/route planning services of each integrated transport systems are usually the best choice (e.g. [https://anachb.vor.at/ VOR AnachB] - you can select English in the menu on the left). In the biggest cities, you can find information on fares and restricted lines using the websites and apps of the operator (e.g. [https://www.wienerlinien.at/web/wl-en Wiener Linien] for Vienna). ===By car=== [[File:Edelweissstrasse 2022 Glocknergruppe.jpg|thumb|The Grossglockner High Alpine Road]] {{Main|Driving in Austria}} Sparsely populated regions in Austria are easier to explore by car as bus services can be infrequent. Many popular spots in the mountains are accessible only by car or on foot/ski. Renting a car for a couple of days is a good way to go off the beaten track. Driving in Austria is normally quite pleasant as the country is small and the roads are in good condition, not congested and offer fantastic scenery. Travelling on Austrian motorways (''Autobahnen'') or ''Schnellstraßen'' means you have to pay tolls. You have to buy a ''Vignette'' toll pass at any petrol station or at the border. ''Vignetten'' can be bought for 10 days or more. Vehicles heavier than 3500&nbsp;kg must instead purchase a ''GO-Box'', a transponder which deducts tolls. Additional tolls are payable on certain roads, especially mountain passes, which you need to pay in bank notes (not coins) or with credit card at toll stations. The speed limits are {{kmh|130}} on Autobahnen and {{kmh|100}} on Schnellstraßen and Bundesstraßen. Expect limits otherwise of {{kmh|50-80}}. Headlights should be switched on at all times. Take special care when '''[[Winter driving|driving in winter]]''', especially in the mountains (winter lasts from September to May in the higher parts of the Alps and snowfall is in general possible at any time of the year). Icy roads kill dozens of inexperienced drivers every year. Winter tires are mandatory between November 1 and April 15. During winter season most rental cars are equipped with winter tyres, an additional fee may be charged. ===By plane=== Although you'll miss out most of the stunning Austrian Landscape, it is possible to travel by plane within Austria. However, due to the country's small size and excellent train network, the total journey time by air is unlikely to be shorter than by rail, or even by bus. [[File:OS AUA Austrian Airlines Embraer 195 OE-LWK (27465573993).jpg|thumb|Embraer 195LR from AUA, the standard aircraft for national flights]] Domestic flights normally cost in the region of {{EUR|300-500}} return, Austrian Airlines offers limited tickets for {{EUR|99}} (Redtickets) but they have to be booked usually 2–3 months in advance. As a matter of fact, even Austrian Airlines now codeshares with ÖBB for some "feeder flights". In other words, fly only if you are on a business trip. These domestic airports are served by airlines like Austrian Airlines (AUA): * [[Graz]] (Thalerhof), servicing eastern [[Styria]] and southern [[Burgenland]] * [[Innsbruck]] (Kranebitten), servicing [[Tyrol]] * [[Klagenfurt]] ([[Wörthersee]]-Airport), servicing [[Carinthia]] * [[Linz]] (Hörsching), servicing [[Upper Austria]] * [[Salzburg (city)|Salzburg]] (Wals), servicing Salzburg and [[Berchtesgaden]] ([[Bavaria]]) * [[Vienna]] (Schwechat), servicing [[Vienna]] and [[Lower Austria]] In addition, the following cross-border airports also serve western Austria: * [[St Gallen|Altenrhein Airport]] ([[Switzerland]]), servicing [[Vorarlberg]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Eastern Switzerland]], and [[Lake Constance]] area * [[Friedrichshafen]] ([[Germany]]), servicing [[Vorarlberg]], [[Baden-Württemberg]] and [[Lake Constance]] area ===By e-hailing=== As of 2024, the most popular ride-hailing services in Austria are Uber, Bolt and Free Now. ==Talk== {{See also|German phrasebook}} The national official language of Austria is '''German''' which, in its national standard variety, known as '''Austrian (Standard) German''' (Österreichisches (Hoch)deutsch) is generally identical to the German used in Germany, with some significant vocabulary differences, mostly the names of food and things around the home, and a rather distinct accent. Most Austriacisms are loanwords from Austro-Bavarian, even though languages of the neighbouring countries have influenced as well. Other languages have some official status in different localities (e.g., Slovenian in Carinthia, Burgenland Croatian and Hungarian in Burgenland). Some examples for different vocabulary in Austrian German: {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;" ! Austria ! Germany ! English |- |der Jänner |der Januar |January |- | der Topfen | der Quark | the curd |- | die Marille | die Aprikose | the apricot |- | die Fleischhauerei | die Metzgerei | the butcher's shop |- | das Obers | die Sahne | the cream |- | der Erdapfel | die Kartoffel | the potato |- | der Polster | das Kissen | the pillow |} The every-day language of almost all Austrians, however, is not Standard German, but instead local dialects of '''Austro-Bavarian''' German (''Boarisch''), which is also spoken as a first language by many in [[Bavaria]], Germany and [[South Tyrol]], Italy. However, in Vorarlberg it is replaced by '''Alemannic''' (''Alemannisch''), which is very close to [[Swiss-German phrasebook|Swiss German]]. Both these dialects belong to the Upper German family, but in extreme cases are only partially mutually intelligible to each other and Standard German, and especially in the larger cities almost everyone will be able to communicate in Standard German as well, if only when speaking to foreigners, (including Northern Germans). Most Austrians can understand another region's dialect but have the hardest time in Vorarlberg because it's Alemannic-speaking. English is taught for at least five years at school so it is very widely spoken. The only area most tourists have linguistic problems with is in translating menus. In rural places, however, older people sometimes don't speak English, so it can help to learn a few basic German phrases if travelling to such places. In the parts of Austria bordering [[Italy]] like Tyrol some people are also speak Italian. In South Tyrol (which belonged once to Austria) the common language is German (well, Austro-Bavarian in practice), except in Bolzano. As a result of post-World War II immigration to Austria, in the large cities you will certainly encounter native speakers of [[Bosnian]]/[[Croatian]]/[[Serbian]] and [[Turkish]]. In general, when speaking German, Austrians tend to pronounce the vowels longer and use a pronunciation which is regional, yet genuine, elegant and melodic; and some even regard it as the beautiful form of German. Also, the "ch", "h" and "r" are not as harshly pronounced as in Germany, making the accent much more mild in nature. == See == {{infobox|Tips on how to save money|* Many museums and other attractions categorise everyone under 19 as a child. At some attractions, such as the Hofburg and Schoenbrunn Palaces in Vienna, all visitors under 19 pay admission charges at '''a much lower rate''', whilst at others, such as the Natural History and Kunsthistorisches Museums in Vienna, those under 19 can even enter '''free of charge''' (they may be requested to produce photographic official identification to verify their age). * If you are a '''student''', make sure that you have a student card or other proof of your student status as many museums and attractions offer reduced admission charges for students (e.g. the Hofburg and Schoenbrunn Palaces). * Many venues also offer discounted entries for handicapped people, if you can produce a valid certificate of disability ("Behindertenausweis"). * Use public transport for traveling. The quality is good and the prices are quite cheap. You can save a lot of money if you buy tickets in advance. Sometimes you even get a free public transport ticket together with a guest card from your accomodation.}} While Austria may be in the very heart of Europe, the country has plenty of attractions to see. There are scenic backdrops, traditional music, visual architectural styles and an ethnically homogenous culture in its range. Summer and winter, large flocks of tourists are drawn to Austria's '''mighty mountainous scenery'''. With no less than 62% of the country at an altitude of 500m or more, it's hard to miss the stunning snow-covered peaks and green valleys. Depending on the season, you'll find green mountain meadows or white landscapes as far as you can see, but either way, you won't be disappointed by the grand views. Highlights include for example the '''High Mountain National Park''' in the Zimmertal Alps, with peaks up to 3476m, narrow gorges and steep cliffs. '''National Park Thayatal''' combines beautiful valley landscapes with a variety of castles and ruined fortresses. The country's highest peak is called Grossglockner and is located on the border between Carinthia and East Tyrol. To get a good view, the [[Hohe Tauern National Park#Q694270|Grossglockner High Alpine Road]], with its gorgeous panorama's comes highly recommended. At the feet of mountain peaks you'll find luscious valleys, including the lovely '''Villgratental'''. The river Danube created some beautiful valley landscapes, where you'll now find famous vineyards. '''[[Wachau]]''' and '''[[Dunkelsteinerwald]]''' in Lower Austria are fine (and protected) examples. To make the image complete, the valley landscapes and hillsides are dotted with countless '''picturesque villages'''. [[File:I09 581 Graben mit Pestsäule.jpg|thumb|230x230px|The famous Graben Square in [[Vienna]]]] Besides all that rustic, tranquil nature and countryside, Austria has a whole other side too. As one of Europe's former great powers, Austria boasts a wealth of majestic architecture and historic structures. As it was long a centre of power in the Holy Roman Empire, you'll find not only palaces and magnificent city architecture but also grand cathedrals, monasteries and churches. '''[[Vienna]]''', the country's capital and most popular destination, is packed with Medieval and Baroque structures. '''Schönbrunn Palace''' with its 1441 rooms is the absolute highlight, and every little girls' princess dream. Its zoo, '''Tiergarten Schönbrunn''', is the oldest in the world. The 12th century '''St. Stephen's Cathedral''' is the most prominent religious building. The same goes for '''[[Innsbruck]]''', at the heart of [[Tyrol]]. The '''Mariazell Basilica''' in [[Mariazell]] is one of the country's most visited attractions and an important pilgrimage destination. Similar to Schönbrunn Palace is '''Schloss Esterházy''' in [[Eisenstadt]], which is situated in the most eastern province. It's said to be one of Austria's most beautiful baroque castles. Neusiedler See, a national park, is also worth seeing in this region. '''[[Salzburg]]''' was the birthplace of Mozart, and combines delightful Alpine surroundings with a beautifully preserved historic centre. It was also the home of the Trapp Family singing group, which inspired the 1956 film ''Trapp-Familie'' ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1ivtrTM7QI watch it on YouTube]), and the 1965 film ''The [[Sound of Music]],'' which introduced the English-speaking world to the Austrian Alps, but was poorly received in Austria itself. == Do == [[File:Bürstegg 2011-01-30 edit ggia.jpg|thumb|420x420px|[[Lech and Zürs am Arlberg|Lech]], a famous village and ski area in Vorarlberg]] ===Skiing and snowboarding=== {{see also|Winter sports in Austria}} Austria is a traditional destination for [[downhill snowsports]], as well as other winter sports. Winter sports is especially in western Austria part of the local identity. ===Cycle touring=== {{see also|Cycling in Europe}} Austria is well known for its scenic cycle routes along its largest rivers. Though Austria is a mountainous country, cycle routes along rivers are flat or gently downhill, and therefore suitable even for casual cyclists. The most famous route is the Danube cycle path from Passau to Vienna, one of the most popular cycle paths in Europe, drawing large crowds of cyclists from all over the world each summer. Other rivers with well-developed cycle routes are the Inn, Drau, Moell and Mur. Most routes follow a combination of dedicated cycle paths, country lanes, and traffic calmed roads, and are well suited for children. ===Music=== {{see also|European classical music}} [[File:Wien - Musikverein, großer Saal.JPG|thumb|The Big Hall at Wiener Musikverein, the site for the traditional New Year concert]] Many visitors come to experience Austria's musical heritage. Salzburg and Vienna offer world renowned opera, classical music and jazz at moderate prices, but performances of high standards are also widely available throughout the rest of the country. There are dozens of Summer festivals for all tastes, the most famous being the avant-garde Salzburg festival (''Salzburger Festspiele'') but because they're aimed at tourists prices can be high. Austria's strong musical tradition is not confined to classical music alone. Austrian folk music (''Volksmusik'') is an integral part of rural Austria, and is said to have influenced many of the nation's big composers. In the Alps almost every village has its own choir or brass band (''Blasmusik''), and you'll often see groups of friends sitting down to sing ''Lieder'' in rural pubs. Traditional Alpine instruments are the accordion and zither. In Vienna a type of melancholic violin music known as ''Schrammelmusik'' is often performed in Restaurants and ''Heurigen''. === Arts and culture === [[File:Vienna - View of Maria Theresien-Platz and the Kunsthistorisches Museum - 6291.jpg|thumb|The Kunsthistorisches Museum is one of the most famous art museums in the world.]] Austria is a country with a very rich culture and there are events throughout the year: folklore events, festivals, concerts, markets, fairs and other programmes. The best way to find out is to check the tourist information website. Due to its past history Austria also has a lot of famous museums with some world famous ones in Vienna, they are perfect for rainy days. ===Movies=== Austria has quite a special kind of cinematic culture, that is worth taking notice of as a tourist. Many films star celebrities from cabaret, a kind of staged comedy popular in Austria. Most of these movies are characterized by their rather cynical and sometimes bizarre black humour, usually portraying members of Vienna's lower or middle class. Josef Hader, Roland Düringer, Reinhard Nowak or Alfred Dorfer are among the most outstanding actors here. Recommendations include ''Indien'' (1993), ''Muttertag'' (1993), ''Hinterholz 8'' (1998), ''Komm, süßer Tod'' (2000) and ''Silentium'' (2004). Popular directors are Harald Sicheritz, Michael Haneke and Ulrich Seidl. Haneke received positive international praise for his films ''Die Klavierspielerin'' (2001), based on the novel by nobel-prize winning author Elfriede Jelinek and ''Caché'' (2005). Seidl received various awards for his drama ''Hundstage'' (2001). Also, the 1949 classic ''The Third Man'' was shot in Vienna, and is regularly shown in Vienna's Burg Kino. ===Hiking=== [[File:Gemeinde Hohentauern, 8785, Austria - panoramio - Martin Cígler (7).jpg|thumb|Scheibelalm, Styria]] It is normally safe to hike without a guide in the Austrian Alps, as there is a dense network of marked trails and mountain shelters. However, a few lethal incidents do happen every year as a result of carelessness. Walkers are strongly advised not to stray off the trails and not to hike in bad weather or without suitable equipment. Before setting off, always check with the local tourist office whether the trail corresponds to your abilities. Also, check the weather forecast. Sudden thunderstorms are frequent and are more likely to happen in the afternoon. A rule of thumb is that if you haven't reached the summit by noon, it's time to give up and return to shelter. Though the scenery is by all accounts majestic, don't expect an empty wilderness. The Alps can be very crowded with mountaineers, especially in high season (there are even traffic jams of climbers on some popular mountains). Littering is a no-no in all of Austria, but especially in the mountains, and you will enrage fellow walkers if you're seen doing it. If you really want to show respect, pick up any litter you happen to see in your path and dispose of it at the end of your hike (it's a bit of an unwritten rule). Long-distance trails are marked with the Austrian flag (red-white-red horizontal stripes) painted onto rocks and tree trunks. Most trails and mountain huts are maintained by the Austrian Alpine Club. Some are run by other equivalent organizations, such as the German, Dutch and Italian Alpine Clubs. Mountain huts are meant to be shelters, not hotels. Though they are normally very clean and well-equipped, standards of accommodation and customer service are basic. Blankets are provided, but bringing a thin sleeping bag is mandatory for reasons of hygiene. During the high season (August), it's a good idea to book in advance. Mountain huts will not turn anyone down for the night, but if they're full, you'll have to sleep on the floor. Prices are usually around {{EUR|10-20}} a night to stay in a mattress room (half price for Alpine Club members), but meals and drinks are quite expensive, as everything has to be carried up from the valley, often by helicopters or on foot. For the same reason, there are no trash cans in or near huts. Electricity and gas are also hard to transport, so hot showers will incur a fee if available at all. Some huts even lack running water; they will have pit latrines. As mentioned above, mountain huts are very useful for hikers, they mostly have a heated common room and they are very romantic, but there is nothing more than necessary. Detailed hiking maps showing the location of marked trails and shelters can be purchased online from the [http://www.alpenverein.at Austrian Alpine Society]. ===Lakes=== [[File:Seebensee mit Wettersteingebirge.jpg|thumb|Seebensee lake, Tyrol]] Austria has many lakes, many of which have designated camping areas. Normally they are very clean, so you can swim in them. In winter you can use them for ice skating. Sometimes you have to pay a fee to access the lake. Near the grass fields you can often find a little shop with snacks, ice cream and drinks. At bigger lakes you can also find ''Wasserrettung'' (water life-savers) who can help you in case of emergency or other problems. Lakes are a great way to spend your leisure time. Austrians normally spend the whole day at the place. Some popular lakes are the [[Wörthersee]], Wolfgangsee, Attersee and the Neusiedler See. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{Exchange rate euros}} {{Euro}} Austria is a cash-oriented society, and while acceptance of credit/debit cards is on the rise, many shops are still cash only. The best rates for changing money are offered by banks. Some banks will only exchange money for their account holders, and they usually add an exchange fee ranging from €3 to €6, or more when changing large amounts. Withdrawing money from the ubiquitous ATMs is also a viable option, especially if large amounts of cash are needed. The Austrian schilling was replaced by the euro in 2002. If you have any from previous trips, they can be exchanged at the [https://www.oenb.at/en/ Austrian Central Bank] (ÖNB) indefinitely. ===Prices=== The prices are comparable with [[Western Europe]]an countries, they are very similar to Germany and a little bit more than in Italy. The general sales tax of 20% is included in prices but lower sales taxes applies to certain services and mainly food. A can of Coke in a supermarket will cost you about {{EUR|1}}, a mid-range meal {{EUR|20}}. Prices in tourist areas ([[Tyrol]], [[Vienna]], [[Salzburg (city)|Salzburg]], Zell am See) can be higher than the averages. B&B accommodation and traditional restaurants in towns and rural areas are comparatively cheap. ===Shops=== [[File:Graz-Münzgrabenstraße8.jpg|thumb|Gift shop in [[Graz]]]] Shops are generally open from 08:00 to 19:00 on weekdays, 08:00 to 18:00 on Saturdays (noon in rural areas) and closed on Sundays. On Sundays only gas station shops (expensive), shops in railway stations and restaurants are open. Some smaller shops also may be closed between 12:00 and 15:00 on weekdays. Paying by credit card is not common like in the rest of Europe or [[United States]] and [[Canada]] but all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club) are accepted at almost every gas station and at bigger shops, especially in shopping malls. In smaller towns and villages you normally find one or two small shops or bakeries, which carry nearly everything, called "Greißler", although they are under threat from bigger shopping centers. ===ATMs=== ATMs in Austria are called '''Bankomat'''. They are widespread and you will find them even in smaller, rural villages. Many shops (and some restaurants too) offer the service to pay directly with an ATM card. The majority of ATMs accept cards from abroad. All Bankomats in Austria can easily identified by a sign showing a ''green stripe above a blue stripe''. Usually no fees will be charged, but the company Euronet charges {{EUR|1.90}} per withdrawal. ===Tipping=== In Austria, [[tipping]] is common and, although legally not mandatory, often considered as socially obligatory. Giving 5% to 10% of the total amount is common; more signals exceptionally good service. Rounding to a multiple of a Euro is common, for low sums the amount paid is often a multiple of 50 cents (i.e. a bill of {{EUR|7.80}} can be paid as {{EUR|8}} or {{EUR|8.50}}). Tipping is not practised when the goods are exchanged over the counter (i.e. in fast-food restaurants or at street stalls). Traditionally, the owner of a restaurant does not receive a tip. A tip is known in the German language as ''Trinkgeld'', which literally translates as 'money for drink'. It is also common practice to tip other service employees, like taxi drivers or hair dressers. Attempting to tip any kind of government employee may be perceived as a bribe and will get you in trouble. ===Bargaining=== Bargaining is not common throughout Austria except at flea markets. It may be okay to ask for a discount, but accept No as an answer. ===Gifts to take home=== * '''Eiswein''' (ice wine)—see [[#Drink|Drink]] section * '''Marillenmarmelade''' (Apricot Jam) * '''Pumpkin Seed Oil''' a speciality from the southern region [[Styria]] * '''Manner Schnitten''' Popular sweets in pink package available almost everywhere. * '''Salzburger Mozartkugeln''' chocolate balls with marzipan in the middle ====For children==== * '''Haba''' wooden toys ==Eat== [[File:Wiener Schnitzel at Gasthaus Joainig (lightened).jpg|thumb|Wiener Schnitzel with potatoes]] Austrian food is distinctive and delicious, and is traditionally of the stodgy, hearty "meat and dumplings" variety. '''Wiener Schnitzel''' (a bread-crumbed and fried veal escalope) is something of a national dish, and '''Knödel''' are a kind of dumpling which can be made either sweet or savory according to taste. In Vienna the '''Tafelspitz''' (boiled beef with potatoes and horseradish - it's classier than it sounds) is traditionally served on Sundays, and is normally accompanied by clear broth with dumplings and herbs. Apart from these, Austria is renowned for its pastries and desserts, the most well-known of which is probably the '''Apfelstrudel'''. '''[[Bread]]''' (''Brot'') is taken seriously in Austria. Almost every village has its own bakery, offering a large choice of freshly baked sweet and savoury rolls daily from 06:00. Rye bread ('''Vollkornbrot''', '''Bauernbrot''') is the traditional staple food among peasants. If this is too heavy for you, try the common white bread roll ('''Semmel'''). Somewhat surprisingly, it is easier to find good bread outside of Vienna, where the baking industry hasn't yet come to be dominated by industrial scale chain shops. Some Austrians have a habit of eating sweet flour-based dishes (''Mehlspeise'') for a main course once a week. Varieties include ''Kaiserschmarren'', ''Marillenknoedel'', and ''Germknoedel''. The best advice is to dive into the menu and give it a go - there are no nasty surprises! ===Restaurants=== If you want to try out traditional Austrian food go for a ''Gasthaus'' or ''Gasthof'', which serve traditional food for reasonable prices. Usually they offer various options of set lunch including a soup and a main dish and in some cases a dessert too. They are typically priced at {{EUR|8-10}} (except for very touristy areas). Menus are written in German, though some of the restaurants have English menus as well. Keep in mind that tipping is expected throughout all restaurants in Austria. Rounding up the price given on the bill is usually enough tip. ====Paying==== In Austrian restaurants you must ask to pay. Get the attention of your server and say: "zahlen, bitte" (the bill, please). They will then bring you the check, or tell you the amount of the bill verbally. Then, the proper way to pay in Austria is to give your cash and say the amount you wish to pay, including tip. To tip it is appropriate to round up, or to round up by 50 cents or {{EUR|1}} of the cost for each person (should equal about 5-10% for a full meal). Servers are not dependent on tips, and it is not appropriate to tip a large amount. Saying "danke" (thank you) when paying, means keep the change! Alternatively, you can say the amount of the bill plus your tip and you'll only get change above that amount (for instance, if you pay with a {{EUR|20}} bill, the amount is {{EUR|16.50}} and you say "Siebzehn Euro" (seventeen euro), the server will give you {{EUR|3}} change and keep the {{EUR|0.50}} as tip). ===Local specialties=== * If you have the chance to try '''Kletzennudeln''' you should definitely do it. They are an exceptional Carinthian specialty you can very rarely get anywhere: sweet noodles filled with dried pears and soft cheese. The best Kletzennudeln are handmade with minced dried pears, rather than the lower quality versions which use pear powder. * Salads can be made with '''Kernöl''' (green pumpkin seed oil), a Styrian specialty. Even though it looks frightening (dark green or dark red, depending on lighting conditions) it has an interesting nutty taste. A bottle of good, pure Styrian Kernöl is very expensive (around {{EUR|10-20}} per litre), but maybe one of the most Austrian things to take home. Try it on salads, pumpkin soup, or on bread. Beware of cheap Kernöl, sometimes sold as "Salatöl". Be sure the bottle is sealed well as the oil expands when warmed and leaves ''non removable'' stains (although some people swear that bright sunlight can remove them). Kernöl is also available online. === Desserts === [[File:Sachertorte2009.JPG|thumb|Sachertorte at Café Sacher]] * '''Strudel''' is a sweet layery, pastry filled with fruits, most commonly apples. * '''Sachertorte''' is chocolate torte with chocolate icing and filled with apricot jam. It should be served fresh with freshly beaten, lightly sweetened cream, which the Austrians call "Schlagobers". The original is available in Vienna in the [http://www.sacher.com/sacher/SacherCafes/_layout/index_en.jsp?strHMP=hm_a Cafe Sacher], but similar cakes are very common in many other Viennese Cafes. Cafe Sacher is a bit of a tourist trap owing to its fame (one example of this is the compulsory {{EUR|2}} coat check) and their cakes are not always the freshest. * '''Eszterházy''': Austrian torte. * '''Malakhoff''': a delicate cake made with milk and rum * '''Manner Schnitten''' are a very Viennese sweet specialty, but just the square form factor and pink packaging are really unique. You can buy them everywhere. (Maybe you've already seen these as a product placement in some Hollywood movies or for example in "Friends" and wondered what they are.) * '''Milchrahmstrudel''': milk and curd cheese strudel, served warm * '''Powidl''' is a type of savoury prune jam with alcohol, another specialty from Vienna. It makes a good present as it tastes exotic and is hard to find anywhere else in the world. ===Vegetarians=== [[Vegetarianism]] is slowly gaining ground in Austria, especially in bigger cities. Austrians aren't as carnivorous as the rest of their Central European neighbors; 47% of the country reports having a diverse diet with only limited amounts of meat. Most restaurants don't cater for vegetarians specifically, but you're almost certain to find meals on the menu containing no meat. As an alternative, there are vegetarian restaurants in every major city, as well as harder to find vegan or vegan-friendly places. You can get vegetarian and vegan products (e.g. tofu, soy milk, lactose-free products) in nearly all supermarkets across the country (in rural areas as well) and in many health-food shops. In more traditional or very rural restaurants, you may be viewed as eccentric if you say you are vegetarian, and it's possible that not a single meal on the menu is meat-free. This is especially true for restaurants serving traditional Austrian cuisine which relies heavily on meat—even apparent vegetable dishes such as potato salad or vegetable soup often contain meat products. Sometimes, also food clearly labeled as "vegetarian" contains fish, as vegetarianism is often equated with pescetarianism. If unsure, ask the waiting staff if there are any animal products in the dish you're about to order. Some traditional meals that are guaranteed to be vegetarian are ''Kaiserschmarren'' (sweet pieces of fluffy pancake with fruit compote), ''Germknödel'' (sweet dumpling with sour prune jam), and ''Kasnudel'' (similar to ravioli). Austria's Vegan Society maintains an updated list of vegetarian- and vegan-friendly eating places: [https://www.vegan.at/restaurants original]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and [http://translate.google.at/translate?hl=en&sl=de&u=https://www.vegan.at/restaurants translated version]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ==Drink== [[File:Almdudler.JPG|thumb|Almdudler]] [[Vienna]] is famous for its '''café''' culture, and there are coffee houses all over the city, many of which have outdoor terraces that are popular in the summer. Visit them for coffee (of course), hot chocolate and pastries. Most famous is Sacher-Torte. '''Soft drinks:''' Austria has also a national soft drink called ''Almdudler''. It is lemonade with herbs. North Americans will find it similar to, but not exactly like, ginger ale. Other typical Austrian soft drinks are ''Holler'' or ''Hollundersaft''. It's a soft drink made of elderberry blossoms. The globally popular energy drink ''Red Bull'' is a license produced localisation of Krating Daeng from Thailand but is often seen as an Austrian invention and is sold everywhere. Austrians often mix sparkling mineral water with a variety of juices in a 50/50 proportion which is then qualified with the adjective '''gespritzt.''' '''Alcohol''' consumption in Austria is quite high and part of everyday life, so it is normal to have a drink in parks or on the street. Beer and wine can be bought at 16, everything else at 18. There are several popular drinks: Austria has some first class '''wines''', mostly whites, slightly on the acidic side. Due to its climate, [[File:Stroh - Austrian Rum - IMG 3452.jpg|thumb|Bottle and glass of Stroh]]Austrian reds will often be made from grape varieties such as Zweigelt or Blaufränkisch which are not familiar to many wine drinkers from outside the country, but are definitely worth trying. Wine can be drunk mixed with mineral water, called "G'spritzter" or "Spritzer". The best place to do so is at the "Heurigen" in the suburban areas of Vienna. Originally the "Heurigen" were open only in summer, but now you can have your "Spritzer" throughout the year with a little self-served snack. Locally produced wine is often inexpensive - it's easy to find a perfectly passable bottle for less than {{EUR|5}} in a supermarket. ''Sturm,'' or young wine, similar to ''federweißer'' in Germany, can be found in early autumn. It's cloudy in appearance, and while not as high in alcohol as normal wine, can be easy to overdo because it's fairly sweet and fizzy. '''Beer''' in Austria is largely ubiquitous with ''Märzen'' Lager. The quality is generally very good but varies greatly between breweries, as in many other Central European countries. The best options are from a modest number of remaining regional breweries not yet bought up by Heineken. Visitors accustomed to the selection common in most larger towns in the US or UK may be underwehlemed by beer lists, even in upscale bars. There are a small number of micro-breweries around the country, offering more exotic brews such as stouts. Beer culture in Austria is not widespread, many Austrians have strong brand loyalty but don't know the difference between pilsner and lager, so don't be surprised if a bartender or server struggles to answer your questions. * '''Lagers''': decent classic "Märzen" lagers commonly available include Stiegl, Egger and Zwettler. The quality of many others including Gösser, Puntigamer, Schwechater, Wieselburger and Zipfer all now under the Heinicken umbrella has debatebly dropped. * '''Pilsners''': are normally noted with ''Pils'' or ''Spezial'', most common is Hirter Pils. * '''Dunkles''': is a rich dark brew offered by most breweries. * '''Weiße''': is wheat beer. There are several breweries and many imports from neighboring Bavaria, though its rarely found on tap. * '''Zwickl''': is unfiltered lager and the pride of several breweries. '''Schnaps''' is a type of fruit brandy served in many parts of Austria, usually after a meal. The most popular flavours are pear, apricot, and raspberry, though dozens of other flavours are available. There are three quality tiers of Schnaps: distilled, infused, and flavoured. The distilled variety is the highest quality; several brands of Austrian fruit Schnaps rank among the best in the world, but are accordingly expensive: a half-Liter bottle can cost up to {{EUR|100}}. "Real" Schnaps is made from real fruit (either distilled or infused). Beware of the cheap stuff sold in large bottles in supermarkets; this is often of the "flavoured" type - nothing more than ethanol, water and artificial flavouring. If you want the real thing, go to a deli or upscale bar (if you're in a bigger city) or a ''Buschenschank'' (Farmhouse) if you're in the countryside. However, be careful with Schnaps especially if you are not used to alcoholic drinks! '''Eiswein''' is a type of dessert wine produced from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine. Eiswein is generally quite expensive due to the labour-intense and risky production process. Your best bet is to buy eiswein at Naschmarkt for {{EUR|10-15}} for 375 ml or 500 ml; more chances to find it there on weekends. Just to give an idea of prices elsewhere, ice wine sells at ''Wein & Co'' near Naschmarkt at {{EUR|24-30}} for a 375 ml bottle, and Vienna duty-free shop sells it for {{EUR|23.50}} as well. '''Stroh''' is possibly the best known Austrian spirit drink. It is classified as a kind of rum, although it's not produced of sugarcane molasses like the Caribbean "real" rum is. Coming in five versions (the strongest one having an alcohol content of 80%!), Stroh is often used as a component in cocktails like ''Jagertee'' and as a flavoring for cakes and pastries. ==Sleep== [[File:Klagenfurt Lidmanskygasse 51 Gasthaus Pirker 06072016 3733.jpg|thumb|Cozy guesthouses can be easily found in smaller cities and towns]] Although hotels can usually even be found in smaller cities they are quite expensive (even more so in bigger cities) cheaper possibilities in big cities are youth [[hostels]] and in smaller towns you can often find families renting flats in bed and breakfast style (look for ''Pension'' or ''Zimmer Frei'' signs) for {{EUR|20-30}}. In the countryside many farmers will rent out rooms for a couple of nights, both officially and unofficially. To find a place to stay, simply knock on the door of a farmhouse and ask - if they don't have a room they'll probably know someone nearby who does. You can also find a lot of camping grounds (some of them are open the whole year round) but while they are exceptionally clean and often provide additional services, they are also a bit more expensive than in other countries in [[Central Europe]]. Austrian law requires anyone to '''register''' at their resident address, even if it's only for one night and even if it's a campsite. Hotels will therefore ask you to hand over your passport or driving license and may refuse to give you accommodation if you don't have any ID on you. Don't worry too much about handing over your passport. In many countries, such a practice would raise concerns, but in Austria, it's a standard procedure. Your passport ''will'' be returned. If you stay in private accommodation for longer than about two weeks, you should obtain a document of registration (''Meldezettel'') from the local registration authority (''Bezirksamt'' or ''Meldeamt''), usually located in the town hall. This document needs to be signed by the owner or tenant of your accommodation. Failure to present this document upon departure could cause difficulties if you have stayed in the country for more than two or three months. ==Learn== Austria has many great universities, the majority of which are located in [[Vienna]], [[Graz]], and [[Innsbruck]]. A development in tertiary education is the Fachhochschulen (Universities of Applied Sciences), vocational colleges that typically focus on engineering and business education with less emphasis on research than traditional universities, but a stronger view toward practice. If you plan to study in Austria, [http://www.help.gv.at/Content.Node/148/Seite.1480000.html read the requirements]. If you need advice, you can contact the [http://oeh.ac.at National Students Union]. ==Work== Citizens of [[European Union]] member states or EFTA member states (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Norway) may work in Austria without any restrictions. Everyone else, however, needs a work permit to work in Austria. With an unemployment rate of 5%, finding a job in Austria should not be difficult for those with the right qualifications and skills. Bear in mind a lot of jobs in Austria require a good knowledge of German. Graduates of Austrian universities have an edge in the Austrian job market. Qualified non-EU and non-EFTA citizens may apply for a '''Red-White-Red Card''', which enables someone to stay in Austria for '''two years''' and work at a specific company. There is plenty of unskilled work available in the tourism industry. As long as you have a work permit, finding a job can often be as easy as simply turning up at a hotel and asking. ''Seasonal'' work in large ski resorts is the most promising option. ==Stay safe== Austria is one of the safest countries in the world. According to the OECD Factbook of 2006, levels of robbery, assault, and car crime are among the lowest in the developed world, and a study by Mercer ranks Vienna as the 6th safest city in the world out of 215 cities. '''Violent crimes''' are extremely rare and should not concern the average tourist. Small towns and uninhabited areas such as forests are very safe at any time of the day. Like everywhere else in Europe, Austria has also seen a rise in violent crime and sex crime since 2015, but crime is still low in comparison to other western European countries. In Vienna, for example, there are some problems with gangs of young migrants in working-class neighbourhoods, which have also been widely discussed in public and in the media. Although you are safe anywhere at any time, follow standard safety precautions and use common sense when walking alone at night in quiet areas of large cities such as Vienna, Linz or Graz: Be careful and keep a distance to shady people. Beware also of '''pickpockets''' in crowded places. Like everywhere in Europe they are becoming increasingly professional. '''Bicycle theft''' is rampant in bigger cities, but virtually absent in smaller towns. Always lock your bike to an immobile object. There is a federal police and in some few towns there is a municipality police. If you have a problem, the federal police (just '''Polizei''') is your place to go. They are working very professional and will help you in any cases. '''Racism''' can be in some rare cases a problem and may make your stay an unpleasant experience. Just like anywhere else in [[Central Europe]], there might be instances of glaring or hostile looks. However, racism is almost never seen in a violent form. There is nearly no violent crime on the countryside and in cities people are used to foreigners. In more remote parts of Austria, non-white people are a rare sight. If you see elderly locals giving you strange looks there, don't feel threatened. They are probably just showing curiosity or a distrust of foreigners and have no intention of doing any physical harm. A short conversation can often be enough to break the ice. Muslim visitors should note that the ''burqa'' and ''niqab'' are '''illegal''' in Austria. Anti-Semitism has increased since October 2023 and is more of a problem in the cities, but infringements are lower compared to Germany and there is a fairly zero-tolerance policy in law. Do not walk on the '''bike lanes''' (especially in Vienna) and cross them like you would cross any other road. Some bike lanes are hard to recognize (e.g. on the "Ring" in Vienna) and some cyclists drive quite fast. Walking on bike lines is not only considered to be impolite, but it may also happen that you are hit by a cyclist. ==Stay healthy== [[File:2018-01-01 (172) ÖAMTC Christophorus 14 Airbus H135 OE-XEK in alpine operation during landing in Annaberg, Lower Austria.jpg|thumb|A rescue helicopter at a ski piste in Annaberg]] Austria has an excellent healthcare system by Western standards. Hospitals are modern, clean, and well-equipped. Healthcare in Austria is funded by the ''Krankenkassen'' (Sickness-funds), compulsory public insurance schemes that cover 99% of the population. Most hospitals are owned and operated by government bodies or the Krankenkassen. Private hospitals exist, but mainly for non-life-threatening conditions. Doctor's surgeries on the other hand are mostly private, but most accept patients from the Krankenkassen. Many Austrians choose to buy supplemental private health insurance. This allows them to see doctors that don't accept Krankenkassen and to stay in special hospital wards with fewer beds (which often receive preferential treatment). If you are a traveller from the EU, you can get any form of urgent treatment for free (or a small token fee) that is covered by the Krankenkassen. Non-urgent treatment is not covered. Simply show your European Health Insurance Card and passport to the doctor or hospital. When going to a GP, look out for their signs: "Alle Kassen" (all Krankenkassen accepted), or "Keine Kassen" (no Krankenkassen accepted), in which case your EHIC is not valid. Supplemental travel insurance is recommended if you want to be able to see any doctor or receive specialist treatment. If you are a traveller from outside the EU, and have no travel insurance, you will need to pay the full cost of treatment up-front (with the exception of the emergency room). Medical bills can be very expensive, though still reasonable when compared to the USA. Austria has a dense network of helicopter ambulances that can reach any point in the country within 15 minutes. Beware: Mountain rescue by helicopter is ''not'' covered by your EHIC, or indeed most travel insurance. If you have a medical emergency while you are in the mountains (e.g. you break a leg while skiing), the helicopter will be called on you ''regardless'' of whether you ask for it or not, and you will be billed upwards of {{EUR|1000}}. Mountain sports insurance is therefore highly recommended; you can obtain this from your health insurer or by becoming a member of the Austrian Alpine Club ({{EUR|48.50}} for one year of membership, automatic insurance for mountain search-and-rescue costs up to {{EUR|22000}}). Certain regions in Austria (Carinthia, Styria, Lower Austria) are affected by tick borne encephalitis. For those who plan on doing outdoor activities in spring or summer a vaccine is strongly recommended. Also be aware that there is a small, endangered population of sand vipers in the south. '''[[Tap water]]''' is of exceptional quality and safe to drink in Austria (except in some parts of lower Austria, where it is recommended to ask about the water quality first!). The quality of water in Vienna and Graz is supposedly comparable to that of Evian. ==Respect== {{infobox|Nazi References|Symbols of Nazism, including material questioning the extent of Nazi crimes or praising its actions, are forbidden by Austrian law. The penalty for any kind of neo-Nazism is a prison sentence of up to ten years, or a fine (the maximum is {{EUR|21600}}). Foreigners are not exempted from this law. The law also covers chanting Nazi phrases like "Sieg heil" and the performance of the Hitler salute. Never do that, not even as a joke. It would deeply embarrass your Austrian friends. Religious Swastikas are exempted from this rule, but you should still avoid displaying the symbol to avoid any potential misunderstandings.}} Austrians take formalities and etiquette seriously and good manners (''Gutes Benehmen'') can take you a long way in a social situation. * When entering and leaving public places Austrians always say hello (''Grüß Gott'' as formal greeting and a normal ''Hallo'' as a semi-formal greeting) and goodbye (''Auf Wiedersehen''). When entering a small shop, one should say "Grüß Gott" to the shop keeper when entering and "Wiedersehen" when leaving (the "Auf" can be left off). Phone calls are usually answered by telling your name, and finished with ''Auf Wiederh&ouml;ren''. * If you want to greet people in an informal way, use ''Servus''. This greeting is used among friends and also in the countryside (for example, when meeting people at hiking). Servus is also used to say good bye and is common not only in Austria but also in Hungary, Slovenia, Slovakia and southern Germany. Although standard German greetings such as "Tschüss" or "Hi" are used in cities, most Austrians prefer to be greeted with Austrian greetings. * Do not raise your voice, lose your temper, or shout in public; in Austria this is highly frowned upon. * When being introduced to someone, always shake them by the hand, keep the other hand out of your pocket, say your name and make '''eye contact'''. Failure to make eye contact, even if out of shyness, is considered condescending. * Some Austrians have a custom of kissing the cheeks twice when friends meet, except for Vorarlberg, where people kiss each other three times as in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Fake air kisses work too. When you're not sure whether this is appropriate, wait until your counterpart starts the greeting. * When drinking alcohol you don't drink until you have toasted ("anstoßen"). Say "prost" or "cheers" and most importantly '''make eye contact''' when toasting. * Smoking is prohibited in most indoor venues and certain outdoor spaces as well. Since 2019, there is a complete smoking ban in gastronomy (restaurants, bars, cafés, etc.) as well as hotels, certain public areas, government facilities, public transport (as well as e.g. train stations, which may offer "smoking areas") etc. * If you have drunk all your wine and want more it's okay to pour some more into your glass, but ''only'' after you've kindly asked everyone around you at the table if they need any more. * If you really want to show your manners while eating, let your unused hand rest on the table next to your plate and use it occasionally to hold your plate while eating, if necessary. Austrians use generally European table manners, that is, they hold the knife in the right hand and the fork in the left hand, eating with both utensils. It is polite to let your wrists or hands rest on the table, but not your elbows. * In most Austrian households it is customary to take off one's shoes. * Older Austrians really love to use honorific titles. Many books have been written on the subject of Austria and its '''Titelwahn''' (title craze). There are over nine hundred titles from many categories such as job descriptions, academic degrees, honorary titles, official titles, etc. People who think of themselves as being respectable always expect to be addressed by their proper title, be it Prof., Dr., Mag. (Master's), Dipl.Ing. (Master's in Engineering), Ing. (Graduate Engineer) or even B.A. This is especially true of older people. Younger people are generally much more relaxed in this regard. The '''Titelwahn''' is something to be aware of but it is also often a subject of satire and self-deprecating humour so it should not be taken too seriously. Foreigners are not expected to understand or care about (all of) it. * In German, you should normally use ''Sie'' when speaking to strangers or older people. The informal ''Du'' is mainly reserved for friends, relatives and family. However, it is also generally used in the countryside and mountains, even when talking with tourists, and it is no real problem to use the Du there. The Du form is particularly common in western Austria. Misuse of these forms is considered inappropriate in formal situations (especially in cities like Vienna), although people will probably understand that as a foreigner you don't know any better. Switching between the forms can be very irritating to English speakers, but it is good to use the right form for the right situation. However, if you slip, people will excuse that as due to your limited language skills. * Perhaps surprisingly for a rather conservative nation, Austria's attitude towards '''nudity''' is one of the most relaxed in Europe. The display of full nudity in the mainstream media and advertising can be a shock for many visitors, especially those from outside Europe. It is not uncommon for women to bathe topless in beaches and recreational areas in summer. Though swimming costumes must normally be worn in public pools and beaches, when bathing "wild" in rivers and lakes is normally OK to take one's clothes off. Nudity is compulsory in Austria's many nude beaches (''FKK Strand''), health spas and hotel saunas. Like in Germany, do not wear bathing suits into saunas. === Helpful hints === * Austrians are their own people; referring to them as "Germans" is incorrect and may cause offense. The customs of Austria differ from those of Germany and other German-speaking nations. * In business settings, business communication tends to be more formal and political. Your Austrian counterparts will normally be very careful about what they say. ==Connect== ===Calling Austria=== The international code for Austria is +43. ===Phones=== Phone boxes are getting rare. Phone boxes usually operate with prepaid cards which can be obtained from postal offices and kiosks (German:''Trafik''). Phone numbers have an area code followed by the phone number itself. Toll-free numbers are denoted by 0800, service lines priced like local calls are setting off with 0810 whereas numbers starting with 0900, 0901, 0930 or 0931 are expensive service lines charging up to {{EUR|3.63}} per minute. 05 is "shared cost" (usually a bit more expensive than landline/mobile), beware of the exception 05133 though which is the Austrian federal police prefix. 0720 is VOIP/virtual - usually billed at landline rates regardless of location. ===Cell phones=== Austria has good GSM and 3G (UMTS) network coverage of nearly 100%. Be aware that some remote areas (especially mountainous areas) do not have network coverage, though this rather the exception than the rule. Even the Vienna underground lines do have coverage. Austria has three network operators: A1, Magenta and Drei. Also, there is a big number of providers, which will operate in one of these three networks. The cheapest (discounted) providers are HoT, spusu, bob and yesss. You may often purchase a prepaid SIM card for Austria before you depart from an online vendor [http://www.telestial.com/view_product.php?PRODUCT_ID=LSIM-AT01] which can be convenient as you get instructions in English and your cell phone number before you depart. ===Internet=== Internet cafes are common in bigger cities. Hotels in cities do normally have internet terminals, more expensive hotels provide internet access directly in the rooms. There are many free WiFi Hotspots ("Gratis WLAN"), each McDonald's has free WiFi (unlimited Time and Traffic) and there is also free WiFi at most of the trains and railway stations. '''Mobile broadband''' providers in Austria are some of the cheapest and fastest in Europe, and 4G coverage is excellent most populated areas. Several providers offer pay-as-you-go plans that are open to non-residents, don't require registration, and can be topped up with vouchers available in stores, at the ATM, or online. '''[http://www.bob.at/bobwertkarte Bob]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' offers a SIM or Micro-SIM with 1 GB of traffic on a pay-as-you-go plan. Additional traffic can be booked on a data plan ("Datenpaket" [http://www.bob.at/bobdatenpaketwertkarte] at a rate of {{EUR|4}} per GB. Beware of higher rates for traffic ({{EUR|0.068}}/MB) if no data plan is booked. Available at all post offices and some supermarkets. (Ask for "Bob Breitband Startpaket", {{EUR|14.90}}). SIMs come with a working cell number, and are also available bundled with a USB Modem without a contract. (2011) '''[https://www.yesss.at/diskont-surfen/grundoption/4/8/d7949fdc715c3d761f2efc83091f4e03 Yesss]{{Dead link|date=July 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (an A1 subsidiary) offers SIM or Micro-SIM-cards with 1 GB of traffic for {{EUR|9.90}} and a pay-as-you go plan. Additional traffic can be bought for {{EUR|20}} for 2GB. Available at Hofer Supermarkets (ask for "Yesss startpaket" at the cashier). SIMs come with a working cell number, and are also available bundled with a USB modem without a contract. (2011) [http://www.a1.net/ '''A1'''] offers mobile internet prepaid data SIMs — Internet mit Wertkarte — via their webshop for delivery to any address in Austria. (pickup at your hotel) Payment can be made using credit card and they also provide package tracking. Prices start at {{EUR|10}} for 3GB/30 days with 4/2 Mbit/s. (2013) ==Cope== ===Toilets=== Public [[toilets]] are free in most cities. In more touristy areas and train stations, however, fees are normal. Prices range between {{EUR|0.50}} and {{EUR|1}}, which must either be handed to a toilet attendant or inserted into a slot. Public toilets can always be found in city centers (normally on the main square), in train stations, and near major tourist attractions. ===Laundry=== Households without washing machines are almost unheard of in Austria. As a result, laundrettes are few and far between, and may be completely absent from smaller cities. However, most hotels, youth hostels, campsites and even B&Bs normally offer [[laundry]] facilities for a small charge. ===People=== People in Austria are friendly and helpful. Most Austrians are very polite, hospitable and treat tourists well. {{geo|48|14|zoom=7}} {{IsPartOf|Central Europe}} {{outlinecountry}} {{related|Winter sports in Austria}} noa7z2v3t1jluulrsaaswlf3r5qa1mh 0 2239 5091158 4524785 2025-07-11T02:33:45Z Gerode 2196717 /* Cities */ Added Hot Springs to Cities list 5091158 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mount Rushmore sunset banner.jpg|caption=Mount Rushmore National Memorial}} The '''[https://www.blackhillsbadlands.com/ Badlands and Black Hills]''' are part of [[South Dakota]]. ==Cities== {{mapframe}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Belle Fourche]]|wikidata=Q947052}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Custer]]|wikidata=Q1026175}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Deadwood]]|wikidata=Q262483}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hot Springs (South Dakota)|Hot Springs]]|wikidata=Q937736}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kadoka]]|wikidata=Q2725763}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Keystone (South Dakota)|Keystone]]|wikidata=Q2035728}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Lead]]|wikidata=Q584982}} — Deadwood's Twin City, home to the Historic Homesake Gold Mine *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pine Ridge]]|wikidata=Q2086753}} — Headquarters of the Oglala Indian Reservation. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rapid City]]|wikidata=Q213325}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Spearfish]]|wikidata=Q568764}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sturgis]]|wikidata=Q989280}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]|wikidata=Q2035569}} ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Badlands National Park]]|wikidata=Q306216}} * {{marker|name=[[Black Hills National Forest]]|wikidata=Q594965}} * {{marker|name=[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]|wikidata=Q386178}} * {{marker|name=[[Minuteman Missile National Historic Site]]|wikidata=Q3315665}} * {{marker|name=[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]|wikidata=Q83497}} * {{marker|name=[[Wind Cave National Park]]|wikidata=Q1334313}} * {{marker|name=[[Bear Butte State Park]]|wikidata=Q2892841}} * {{marker|name=[[Custer State Park]]|wikidata=Q1803230}} ==Understand== This beautiful region of South Dakota consists of two parts, as its name implies: the '''Badlands''', with canyons and rugged terrain; and the '''Black Hills''', a mountain range with forests and the famous Mount Rushmore. ==Get in== ===By plane=== From the sky, you will likely have only one viable option for a point of entry: '''[[Rapid City]] Regional Airport''' {{IATA|RAP}}. Flights arrive regularly from [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Salt Lake City]], and [[Minneapolis]], as well as a twice weekly nonstop from [[Las Vegas]]. ===By car=== Without a car, you won't go far. '''I-90''' is the sole interstate in the region, running east-west, skirting Black Hills NF and Badlands NP to the north, and passing through [[Rapid City]]. It goes on to [[Sioux Falls]] in the east, and west to [[Wyoming]] to connect with I-25, which leads south to [[Denver]]. ==Get around== ==See== The main sights are indisputably the cyclopean sculptures at [[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]] and the embryonic [[Custer|Crazy Horse Memorial]], both of which are close to [[Custer]]. [[Wind Cave National Park|Wind]] and [[Jewel Cave National Monument|Jewel]] Caves, as well as [[Badlands National Park]] are also well worth a visit. But if you are here to just snap photos of a few main attractions, you are going to miss the point. This is beautiful, big, wild country, and to appreciate it, you'll need to spend days driving or hiking around to take in the glorious scenery, gawk at wildlife, wonder at the night stars, and enjoy the fresh, clean air. ==Do== *Drive through "Bear Country USA", a "drive-through zoo" containing many animals you otherwise would not want to be in proximity to. *Hike or at least check out the incredible Badlands. *Ride down Highway 16, off of which are conveniently located many of the area's numerous attractions. *Tour the local highways, which can be very scenic in nature. *Visit and enjoy Evan's Plunge in Hot Springs, a mini-water park fed by [[hot springs]]. *Visit the area's most famous attraction, Mount Rushmore. *Visit the Mammoth Site *Watch the Old West Shoot-out in Hill City *{{do | name=Circle View Ranch | alt= | url=http://www.circleviewranch.com/ | email= | address=20055 E. Highway 44 | lat=43.69904 | long=-102.04267 | directions= | phone=+1 605-433-5582 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Alpine Restaurant | alt= | url=https://alpineinnhillcity.com/ | email= | address=133 Main St | lat=43.93281 | long=-103.57552 | directions=[[Hill City]] | phone=+1 605-574-2749 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-22 | content=Dinner menu is limited: Small or Large Filet Mignon. }} * {{eat | name=Hitchrail Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=421 Northern St | lat=43.60878 | long=-103.59163 | directions=[[Pringle]] | phone=+1 605-673-2697 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-22 | content=A small town watering hole. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== Circle View Ranch offers a unique view. Their 3,000-acre ranch is 6 miles from Badlands National Park. ==Go next== You're not far from some interesting, less visited places across state borders. [[Devil's Tower National Monument]] is just west in [[Wyoming]] and [[Theodore Roosevelt National Park|Teddy Roosevelt National Park]] is just north in [[North Dakota]]. And if [[Badlands National Park]] and the [[Badlands (North Dakota)|North Dakota Badlands]] just don't slake that deep, deep thirst of yours for poor quality lands, you could point your car northwest towards the thematically significant [[Alberta Badlands]]. {{usableregion}} {{isPartOf|South_Dakota}} {{related|Badlands}} {{geo|44.39|-102.51|zoom=7}} 3r45o885t0geturwzbhmnd997xmnl4q 0 2240 5091041 5090373 2025-07-10T20:02:31Z Gerode 2196717 Added North Unit scenic drives and lookouts 5091041 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''', a largely-roadless backcountry. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. ===Fire=== The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * A small overlook of the '''Red Shirt Table''' is located south of the village Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation on Highway BIA 41. This is approximately {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa, and provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. ==Do== Always carry water. Keep your distance from wildlife, especially bison. If your presence causes a change in behavior, then you are too close. Refer to the Stay Safe section for more details about exploring the park. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. ===Day hikes=== *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate 4 miles (2.5&nbsp;km). Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the look out for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate 10 miles (16&nbsp;km) round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate 0.5 mile (0.8&nbsp;km) loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} *{{do | name=Door Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Easy 0.75 mile (1.2&nbsp;km) round trip. This trail is accessible. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". The first 150 yards (137 meters) is boardwalk. }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Easy 0.25 mile (0.4&nbsp;km) loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate to strenuous 1.5 miles (2.4&nbsp;km) round trip. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights. This trail provides a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. The trail, however, can be very dangerous just after rains, especially heavy rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Strenuous 0.2 miles (0.4&nbsp;km) and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Easy 0.25 miles (0.4&nbsp;km) round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} ===Picnic areas=== Picnic tables are located near the Cedar Pass Campground. There are also picnic areas at the Journey Overlook and on Conata Road. As usual, no water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ===Amphitheater=== Located in the Cedar Pass Campground near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== *{{buy | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Gift Store | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. }} ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.cedarpasslodge.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. New cabins replaced all old cabins in 2013. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. The bedding is upgraded and comfortable and the towels are made from bamboo, a renewable resource. The Lodge encourages environmental practices including local/ regional purchasing, recycling, and organic and sustainable programs for their operations. }} ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the Badlands NP. * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=The Cedar Pass Campground has 96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=located off of South Dakota State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=Sage Creek Campground is a free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Badlands NP visitors must come prepared for the weather. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes, a subspecies of the rattlesnake. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails or out of the designated areas can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns include: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''' is located {{convert|2|miles}} west of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''' is 30 miles northwest of park headquarters using the Badlands Loop Road or exit 110 on I-90. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available. The famous Wall Drug store is located here as well. *'''[[Rapid City]]''' is located {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. Nearby monuments and parks in [[South Dakota]] include: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. * {{listing | name=Mammoth Site | url=http://www.mammothsite.com/ | email= | address=1800 West Hwy 18 Bypass, Hot Springs | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-6017 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open year round, times vary with season. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Easter Sunday. | price=Ages 4 and Under: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $5.50; Ages 13 to 59: $7.50; Ages 60 and over: $7.00 | content=The world's largest mammoth research facility in [[Hot Springs (South Dakota)]]. }} * {{listing | name=Bear Country USA | alt= | url=http://www.bearcountryusa.com/ | email= | address=13820 South Hwy 16, Rapid City | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 343-2290 | tollfree= | fax=+1 605 341-3206 | hours=May–November, daily. June–August 8AM-7PM, otherwise 9AM-4PM. | price=Ages under 4: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $10; Ages 13 to 61 : $16; Ages 62+: $13; Maximum/Vehicle: $60; Season Pass: $150 | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} * {{listing | name=Reptile Gardens | alt= | url=http://www.reptile-gardens.com/ | email=getinfo@reptilegardens.com | address=8955 South Hwy 16, Rapid City | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-335-0275 | hours= | price= | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} Driving west into Wyoming, sites include: * '''[[Devils Tower National Monument]]'''. America's first national monument, this massive volcanic core was featured in the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind". * '''[[Yellowstone National Park]]'''. America's first national park. * '''[[Grand Teton National Park]]'''. Home to massive and craggy mountains. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} rpxez5377g9gv301kxy7ro1zk38sooe 5091042 5091041 2025-07-10T20:05:44Z Gerode 2196717 /* South Unit */ Formatted Red Shirt Table into a listing 5091042 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''', a largely-roadless backcountry. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. ===Fire=== The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== Always carry water. Keep your distance from wildlife, especially bison. If your presence causes a change in behavior, then you are too close. Refer to the Stay Safe section for more details about exploring the park. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. ===Day hikes=== *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate 4 miles (2.5&nbsp;km). Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the look out for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate 10 miles (16&nbsp;km) round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate 0.5 mile (0.8&nbsp;km) loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} *{{do | name=Door Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Easy 0.75 mile (1.2&nbsp;km) round trip. This trail is accessible. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". The first 150 yards (137 meters) is boardwalk. }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Easy 0.25 mile (0.4&nbsp;km) loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate to strenuous 1.5 miles (2.4&nbsp;km) round trip. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights. This trail provides a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. The trail, however, can be very dangerous just after rains, especially heavy rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Strenuous 0.2 miles (0.4&nbsp;km) and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Easy 0.25 miles (0.4&nbsp;km) round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} ===Picnic areas=== Picnic tables are located near the Cedar Pass Campground. There are also picnic areas at the Journey Overlook and on Conata Road. As usual, no water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ===Amphitheater=== Located in the Cedar Pass Campground near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== *{{buy | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Gift Store | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. }} ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.cedarpasslodge.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. New cabins replaced all old cabins in 2013. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. The bedding is upgraded and comfortable and the towels are made from bamboo, a renewable resource. The Lodge encourages environmental practices including local/ regional purchasing, recycling, and organic and sustainable programs for their operations. }} ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the Badlands NP. * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=The Cedar Pass Campground has 96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=located off of South Dakota State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=Sage Creek Campground is a free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Badlands NP visitors must come prepared for the weather. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes, a subspecies of the rattlesnake. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails or out of the designated areas can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns include: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''' is located {{convert|2|miles}} west of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''' is 30 miles northwest of park headquarters using the Badlands Loop Road or exit 110 on I-90. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available. The famous Wall Drug store is located here as well. *'''[[Rapid City]]''' is located {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. Nearby monuments and parks in [[South Dakota]] include: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. * {{listing | name=Mammoth Site | url=http://www.mammothsite.com/ | email= | address=1800 West Hwy 18 Bypass, Hot Springs | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-6017 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open year round, times vary with season. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Easter Sunday. | price=Ages 4 and Under: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $5.50; Ages 13 to 59: $7.50; Ages 60 and over: $7.00 | content=The world's largest mammoth research facility in [[Hot Springs (South Dakota)]]. }} * {{listing | name=Bear Country USA | alt= | url=http://www.bearcountryusa.com/ | email= | address=13820 South Hwy 16, Rapid City | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 343-2290 | tollfree= | fax=+1 605 341-3206 | hours=May–November, daily. June–August 8AM-7PM, otherwise 9AM-4PM. | price=Ages under 4: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $10; Ages 13 to 61 : $16; Ages 62+: $13; Maximum/Vehicle: $60; Season Pass: $150 | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} * {{listing | name=Reptile Gardens | alt= | url=http://www.reptile-gardens.com/ | email=getinfo@reptilegardens.com | address=8955 South Hwy 16, Rapid City | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-335-0275 | hours= | price= | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} Driving west into Wyoming, sites include: * '''[[Devils Tower National Monument]]'''. America's first national monument, this massive volcanic core was featured in the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind". * '''[[Yellowstone National Park]]'''. America's first national park. * '''[[Grand Teton National Park]]'''. Home to massive and craggy mountains. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} klabhsesuh7895ndbyav0znb2zj9zf2 5091044 5091042 2025-07-10T20:07:18Z Gerode 2196717 /* North Unit */ 5091044 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''', a largely-roadless backcountry. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. ===Fire=== The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== Always carry water. Keep your distance from wildlife, especially bison. If your presence causes a change in behavior, then you are too close. Refer to the Stay Safe section for more details about exploring the park. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. ===Day hikes=== *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate 4 miles (2.5&nbsp;km). Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the look out for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate 10 miles (16&nbsp;km) round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate 0.5 mile (0.8&nbsp;km) loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} *{{do | name=Door Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Easy 0.75 mile (1.2&nbsp;km) round trip. This trail is accessible. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". The first 150 yards (137 meters) is boardwalk. }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Easy 0.25 mile (0.4&nbsp;km) loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate to strenuous 1.5 miles (2.4&nbsp;km) round trip. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights. This trail provides a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. The trail, however, can be very dangerous just after rains, especially heavy rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Strenuous 0.2 miles (0.4&nbsp;km) and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail. | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Easy 0.25 miles (0.4&nbsp;km) round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} ===Picnic areas=== Picnic tables are located near the Cedar Pass Campground. There are also picnic areas at the Journey Overlook and on Conata Road. As usual, no water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ===Amphitheater=== Located in the Cedar Pass Campground near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== *{{buy | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Gift Store | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. }} ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.cedarpasslodge.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. New cabins replaced all old cabins in 2013. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. The bedding is upgraded and comfortable and the towels are made from bamboo, a renewable resource. The Lodge encourages environmental practices including local/ regional purchasing, recycling, and organic and sustainable programs for their operations. }} ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the Badlands NP. * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=The Cedar Pass Campground has 96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=located off of South Dakota State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=Sage Creek Campground is a free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Badlands NP visitors must come prepared for the weather. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes, a subspecies of the rattlesnake. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails or out of the designated areas can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns include: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''' is located {{convert|2|miles}} west of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''' is 30 miles northwest of park headquarters using the Badlands Loop Road or exit 110 on I-90. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available. The famous Wall Drug store is located here as well. *'''[[Rapid City]]''' is located {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. Nearby monuments and parks in [[South Dakota]] include: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. * {{listing | name=Mammoth Site | url=http://www.mammothsite.com/ | email= | address=1800 West Hwy 18 Bypass, Hot Springs | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-6017 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open year round, times vary with season. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Easter Sunday. | price=Ages 4 and Under: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $5.50; Ages 13 to 59: $7.50; Ages 60 and over: $7.00 | content=The world's largest mammoth research facility in [[Hot Springs (South Dakota)]]. }} * {{listing | name=Bear Country USA | alt= | url=http://www.bearcountryusa.com/ | email= | address=13820 South Hwy 16, Rapid City | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 343-2290 | tollfree= | fax=+1 605 341-3206 | hours=May–November, daily. June–August 8AM-7PM, otherwise 9AM-4PM. | price=Ages under 4: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $10; Ages 13 to 61 : $16; Ages 62+: $13; Maximum/Vehicle: $60; Season Pass: $150 | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} * {{listing | name=Reptile Gardens | alt= | url=http://www.reptile-gardens.com/ | email=getinfo@reptilegardens.com | address=8955 South Hwy 16, Rapid City | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-335-0275 | hours= | price= | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} Driving west into Wyoming, sites include: * '''[[Devils Tower National Monument]]'''. America's first national monument, this massive volcanic core was featured in the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind". * '''[[Yellowstone National Park]]'''. America's first national park. * '''[[Grand Teton National Park]]'''. Home to massive and craggy mountains. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} fkl1kttyvzbxdhcg1f7g3ne3b8s35oo 5091050 5091044 2025-07-10T20:40:28Z Gerode 2196717 Rewrote Hiking section 5091050 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''', a largely-roadless backcountry. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Picnic areas=== Picnic tables are located near the Cedar Pass Campground. There are also picnic areas at the Journey Overlook and on Conata Road. As usual, no water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ===Amphitheater=== Located in the Cedar Pass Campground near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== *{{buy | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Gift Store | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. }} ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.cedarpasslodge.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. New cabins replaced all old cabins in 2013. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. The bedding is upgraded and comfortable and the towels are made from bamboo, a renewable resource. The Lodge encourages environmental practices including local/ regional purchasing, recycling, and organic and sustainable programs for their operations. }} ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the Badlands NP. * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=The Cedar Pass Campground has 96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=located off of South Dakota State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=Sage Creek Campground is a free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Badlands NP visitors must come prepared for the weather. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes, a subspecies of the rattlesnake. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails or out of the designated areas can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. *Always carry water. Keep your distance from wildlife, especially bison. If your presence causes a change in behavior, then you are too close. ==Go next== Nearby towns include: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''' is located {{convert|2|miles}} west of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''' is 30 miles northwest of park headquarters using the Badlands Loop Road or exit 110 on I-90. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available. The famous Wall Drug store is located here as well. *'''[[Rapid City]]''' is located {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. Nearby monuments and parks in [[South Dakota]] include: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. * {{listing | name=Mammoth Site | url=http://www.mammothsite.com/ | email= | address=1800 West Hwy 18 Bypass, Hot Springs | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-6017 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open year round, times vary with season. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Easter Sunday. | price=Ages 4 and Under: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $5.50; Ages 13 to 59: $7.50; Ages 60 and over: $7.00 | content=The world's largest mammoth research facility in [[Hot Springs (South Dakota)]]. }} * {{listing | name=Bear Country USA | alt= | url=http://www.bearcountryusa.com/ | email= | address=13820 South Hwy 16, Rapid City | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 343-2290 | tollfree= | fax=+1 605 341-3206 | hours=May–November, daily. June–August 8AM-7PM, otherwise 9AM-4PM. | price=Ages under 4: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $10; Ages 13 to 61 : $16; Ages 62+: $13; Maximum/Vehicle: $60; Season Pass: $150 | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} * {{listing | name=Reptile Gardens | alt= | url=http://www.reptile-gardens.com/ | email=getinfo@reptilegardens.com | address=8955 South Hwy 16, Rapid City | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-335-0275 | hours= | price= | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} Driving west into Wyoming, sites include: * '''[[Devils Tower National Monument]]'''. America's first national monument, this massive volcanic core was featured in the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind". * '''[[Yellowstone National Park]]'''. America's first national park. * '''[[Grand Teton National Park]]'''. Home to massive and craggy mountains. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} 9691o46b6juw3b0snw23m7iaemcdcvp 5091057 5091050 2025-07-10T20:58:47Z Gerode 2196717 Updated listings in Do, Buy, Eat, Sleep 5091057 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''', a largely-roadless backcountry. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Badlands NP visitors must come prepared for the weather. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes, a subspecies of the rattlesnake. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails or out of the designated areas can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. *Always carry water. Keep your distance from wildlife, especially bison. If your presence causes a change in behavior, then you are too close. ==Go next== Nearby towns include: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''' is located {{convert|2|miles}} west of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''' is 30 miles northwest of park headquarters using the Badlands Loop Road or exit 110 on I-90. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available. The famous Wall Drug store is located here as well. *'''[[Rapid City]]''' is located {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. Nearby monuments and parks in [[South Dakota]] include: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. * {{listing | name=Mammoth Site | url=http://www.mammothsite.com/ | email= | address=1800 West Hwy 18 Bypass, Hot Springs | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-6017 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open year round, times vary with season. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Easter Sunday. | price=Ages 4 and Under: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $5.50; Ages 13 to 59: $7.50; Ages 60 and over: $7.00 | content=The world's largest mammoth research facility in [[Hot Springs (South Dakota)]]. }} * {{listing | name=Bear Country USA | alt= | url=http://www.bearcountryusa.com/ | email= | address=13820 South Hwy 16, Rapid City | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 343-2290 | tollfree= | fax=+1 605 341-3206 | hours=May–November, daily. June–August 8AM-7PM, otherwise 9AM-4PM. | price=Ages under 4: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $10; Ages 13 to 61 : $16; Ages 62+: $13; Maximum/Vehicle: $60; Season Pass: $150 | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} * {{listing | name=Reptile Gardens | alt= | url=http://www.reptile-gardens.com/ | email=getinfo@reptilegardens.com | address=8955 South Hwy 16, Rapid City | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-335-0275 | hours= | price= | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} Driving west into Wyoming, sites include: * '''[[Devils Tower National Monument]]'''. America's first national monument, this massive volcanic core was featured in the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind". * '''[[Yellowstone National Park]]'''. America's first national park. * '''[[Grand Teton National Park]]'''. Home to massive and craggy mountains. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} jd2xyxchbc5k69qyefhn8oom2svqw9m 5091058 5091057 2025-07-10T21:05:38Z Gerode 2196717 /* Stay safe */ Organized and copyedited 5091058 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''', a largely-roadless backcountry. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. Rain makes many routes in the park impassible. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. ===Hiking and activities=== *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns include: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''' is located {{convert|2|miles}} west of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''' is 30 miles northwest of park headquarters using the Badlands Loop Road or exit 110 on I-90. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available. The famous Wall Drug store is located here as well. *'''[[Rapid City]]''' is located {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. Nearby monuments and parks in [[South Dakota]] include: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. * {{listing | name=Mammoth Site | url=http://www.mammothsite.com/ | email= | address=1800 West Hwy 18 Bypass, Hot Springs | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-6017 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open year round, times vary with season. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Easter Sunday. | price=Ages 4 and Under: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $5.50; Ages 13 to 59: $7.50; Ages 60 and over: $7.00 | content=The world's largest mammoth research facility in [[Hot Springs (South Dakota)]]. }} * {{listing | name=Bear Country USA | alt= | url=http://www.bearcountryusa.com/ | email= | address=13820 South Hwy 16, Rapid City | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 343-2290 | tollfree= | fax=+1 605 341-3206 | hours=May–November, daily. June–August 8AM-7PM, otherwise 9AM-4PM. | price=Ages under 4: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $10; Ages 13 to 61 : $16; Ages 62+: $13; Maximum/Vehicle: $60; Season Pass: $150 | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} * {{listing | name=Reptile Gardens | alt= | url=http://www.reptile-gardens.com/ | email=getinfo@reptilegardens.com | address=8955 South Hwy 16, Rapid City | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-335-0275 | hours= | price= | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} Driving west into Wyoming, sites include: * '''[[Devils Tower National Monument]]'''. America's first national monument, this massive volcanic core was featured in the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind". * '''[[Yellowstone National Park]]'''. America's first national park. * '''[[Grand Teton National Park]]'''. Home to massive and craggy mountains. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} 8v5yeuqlj15tmoftguq3dm8rzprqppn 5091061 5091058 2025-07-10T21:15:31Z Gerode 2196717 /* Go next */ Cleaned up existing content 5091061 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''', a largely-roadless backcountry. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. Rain makes many routes in the park impassible. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. ===Hiking and activities=== *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns include: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''', {{convert|2|miles}} south of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''', {{mi|30}} northwest of park headquarters. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available, especially the famous Wall Drug store. *'''[[Rapid City]]''', {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. The '''Black Hills''' to the west feature a variety of popular sights and destinations: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. Driving west into Wyoming, sites include: * '''[[Devils Tower National Monument]]'''. America's first national monument, this massive volcanic core was featured in the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind". * '''[[Yellowstone National Park]]'''. America's first national park. * '''[[Grand Teton National Park]]'''. Home to massive and craggy mountains. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} 9qrv7hwtrs7be6ljq3rhi3ik1l37bg9 5091062 5091061 2025-07-10T21:22:58Z Gerode 2196717 /* Go next */ Added Minuteman Missile NHS, removed Wyoming as there's already a long list of places that direction that are closer 5091062 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''', a largely-roadless backcountry. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. Rain makes many routes in the park impassible. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. ===Hiking and activities=== *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns and attractions: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''', {{convert|2|miles}} south of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''', {{mi|30}} northwest of park headquarters. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available, especially the famous Wall Drug store. *'''[[Rapid City]]''', {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. *'''[[Minuteman Missile National Historic Site]]'''. This ICBM site could rain down nuclear devastation six thousand miles away in 30 minutes. Guided tours of launch control are available. The '''Black Hills''' to the west feature a variety of popular sights and destinations: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} cf3non6fdwioxsetjrbb233nk8s7o5y 5091065 5091062 2025-07-10T21:30:00Z Gerode 2196717 /* Understand */ elaborated on South Unit 5091065 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] {{quote|I would not have been President, had it not been for my experience in North Dakota.|author=Theodore Roosevelt}} The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''' (also known as the '''Stronghold District'''), a largely-roadless backcountry on the Pine Ridge Reservation co-managed with the Oglala Souix Tribe. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. Rain makes many routes in the park impassible. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. ===Hiking and activities=== *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns and attractions: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''', {{convert|2|miles}} south of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''', {{mi|30}} northwest of park headquarters. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available, especially the famous Wall Drug store. *'''[[Rapid City]]''', {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. *'''[[Minuteman Missile National Historic Site]]'''. This ICBM site could rain down nuclear devastation six thousand miles away in 30 minutes. Guided tours of launch control are available. The '''Black Hills''' to the west feature a variety of popular sights and destinations: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} 38retxgjjv5s1e4nmnhw9v2kpi1llxq 5091066 5091065 2025-07-10T21:30:51Z Gerode 2196717 Undo revision [[Special:Diff/5091065|5091065]] by [[Special:Contributions/Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 5091066 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''', a largely-roadless backcountry. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. Rain makes many routes in the park impassible. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. ===Hiking and activities=== *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns and attractions: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''', {{convert|2|miles}} south of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''', {{mi|30}} northwest of park headquarters. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available, especially the famous Wall Drug store. *'''[[Rapid City]]''', {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. *'''[[Minuteman Missile National Historic Site]]'''. This ICBM site could rain down nuclear devastation six thousand miles away in 30 minutes. Guided tours of launch control are available. The '''Black Hills''' to the west feature a variety of popular sights and destinations: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} cf3non6fdwioxsetjrbb233nk8s7o5y 5091067 5091066 2025-07-10T21:31:25Z Gerode 2196717 /* Understand */ elaborated on South Unit 5091067 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''' (also known as the '''Stronghold District'''), a largely-roadless backcountry on the Pine Ridge Reservation co-managed with the Oglala Souix Tribe. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. Rain makes many routes in the park impassible. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. ===Hiking and activities=== *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns and attractions: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''', {{convert|2|miles}} south of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''', {{mi|30}} northwest of park headquarters. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available, especially the famous Wall Drug store. *'''[[Rapid City]]''', {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. *'''[[Minuteman Missile National Historic Site]]'''. This ICBM site could rain down nuclear devastation six thousand miles away in 30 minutes. Guided tours of launch control are available. The '''Black Hills''' to the west feature a variety of popular sights and destinations: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} hnkxyeute8vow597owcswv6gnh3spud 5091069 5091067 2025-07-10T21:34:40Z Gerode 2196717 /* Understand */ 5091069 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''' (also known as the '''Stronghold District'''), a largely-roadless backcountry on the Pine Ridge Reservation co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. Rain makes many routes in the park impassible. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. ===Hiking and activities=== *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns and attractions: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''', {{convert|2|miles}} south of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''', {{mi|30}} northwest of park headquarters. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available, especially the famous Wall Drug store. *'''[[Rapid City]]''', {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. *'''[[Minuteman Missile National Historic Site]]'''. This ICBM site could rain down nuclear devastation six thousand miles away in 30 minutes. Guided tours of launch control are available. The '''Black Hills''' to the west feature a variety of popular sights and destinations: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} mgc4rym1enyk6qcx77cm18nedd75wkf 5091113 5091069 2025-07-11T01:05:28Z Gerode 2196717 Added pics 5091113 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections, that are just barely contiguous: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''' (also known as the '''Stronghold District'''), a largely-roadless backcountry on the Pine Ridge Reservation co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== [[File:Bison Badlands South Dakota.jpg|thumb|Bison]] While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== [[File:Visitor Center PA100237.JPG|thumb|Ben Reifel Visitor Center]] *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} [[File:Yellow Mounds Paleosol & Interior Paleosol (Upper Eocene; White River Badlands, South Dakota, USA) 2.jpg|thumb|The Yellow Mounds]] ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} [[File:Golden Glow Canyon.jpg|thumb|Door Trail, beyond "The Door"]] *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. [[File:View of badland formations during golden hour from Cedar Pass Campground, Badlands National Park, 2009.jpg|thumb|View from Cedar Pass Campground]] * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. Rain makes many routes in the park impassible. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. ===Hiking and activities=== [[File:Badlands National Park, South Dakota - 49512453337.jpg|thumb|The terrain is steep and loose in places.]] *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns and attractions: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''', {{convert|2|miles}} south of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''', {{mi|30}} northwest of park headquarters. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available, especially the famous Wall Drug store. *'''[[Rapid City]]''', {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. *'''[[Minuteman Missile National Historic Site]]'''. This ICBM site could rain down nuclear devastation six thousand miles away in 30 minutes. Guided tours of launch control are available. The '''Black Hills''' to the west feature a variety of popular sights and destinations: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} q3sd27117ynqjyc5wehkktmprfwc6dq 5091117 5091113 2025-07-11T01:13:45Z Gerode 2196717 /* Understand */ Elaborated on park sections 5091117 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections on either side of State Route 44, which cuts through at the park's narrowest point: * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''' (also known as the '''Stronghold District'''), a largely-roadless backcountry on the Pine Ridge Reservation co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== [[File:Bison Badlands South Dakota.jpg|thumb|Bison]] While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== [[File:Visitor Center PA100237.JPG|thumb|Ben Reifel Visitor Center]] *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} [[File:Yellow Mounds Paleosol & Interior Paleosol (Upper Eocene; White River Badlands, South Dakota, USA) 2.jpg|thumb|The Yellow Mounds]] ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} [[File:Golden Glow Canyon.jpg|thumb|Door Trail, beyond "The Door"]] *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. [[File:View of badland formations during golden hour from Cedar Pass Campground, Badlands National Park, 2009.jpg|thumb|View from Cedar Pass Campground]] * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. Rain makes many routes in the park impassible. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. ===Hiking and activities=== [[File:Badlands National Park, South Dakota - 49512453337.jpg|thumb|The terrain is steep and loose in places.]] *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns and attractions: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''', {{convert|2|miles}} south of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''', {{mi|30}} northwest of park headquarters. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available, especially the famous Wall Drug store. *'''[[Rapid City]]''', {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. *'''[[Minuteman Missile National Historic Site]]'''. This ICBM site could rain down nuclear devastation six thousand miles away in 30 minutes. Guided tours of launch control are available. The '''Black Hills''' to the west feature a variety of popular sights and destinations: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} ifxiygjucump4es3r4pzpn23l58d0af 5091118 5091117 2025-07-11T01:14:08Z Gerode 2196717 /* Understand */ 5091118 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections (on either side of State Route 44, which cuts through at the park's narrowest point): * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''' (also known as the '''Stronghold District'''), a largely-roadless backcountry on the Pine Ridge Reservation co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== [[File:Bison Badlands South Dakota.jpg|thumb|Bison]] While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== [[File:Visitor Center PA100237.JPG|thumb|Ben Reifel Visitor Center]] *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} [[File:Yellow Mounds Paleosol & Interior Paleosol (Upper Eocene; White River Badlands, South Dakota, USA) 2.jpg|thumb|The Yellow Mounds]] ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} [[File:Golden Glow Canyon.jpg|thumb|Door Trail, beyond "The Door"]] *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. [[File:View of badland formations during golden hour from Cedar Pass Campground, Badlands National Park, 2009.jpg|thumb|View from Cedar Pass Campground]] * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. Rain makes many routes in the park impassible. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. ===Hiking and activities=== [[File:Badlands National Park, South Dakota - 49512453337.jpg|thumb|The terrain is steep and loose in places.]] *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns and attractions: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''', {{convert|2|miles}} south of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''', {{mi|30}} northwest of park headquarters. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available, especially the famous Wall Drug store. *'''[[Rapid City]]''', {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. *'''[[Minuteman Missile National Historic Site]]'''. This ICBM site could rain down nuclear devastation six thousand miles away in 30 minutes. Guided tours of launch control are available. The '''Black Hills''' to the west feature a variety of popular sights and destinations: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} aepb6iu35gq2kvk797src2ujazvdvem 5091120 5091118 2025-07-11T01:15:28Z Gerode 2196717 Moved pic 5091120 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections (on either side of State Route 44, which cuts through at the park's narrowest point): * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''' (also known as the '''Stronghold District'''), a largely-roadless backcountry on the Pine Ridge Reservation co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== [[File:Bison Badlands South Dakota.jpg|thumb|Bison]] While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== [[File:Visitor Center PA100237.JPG|thumb|Ben Reifel Visitor Center]] *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} [[File:Yellow Mounds Paleosol & Interior Paleosol (Upper Eocene; White River Badlands, South Dakota, USA) 2.jpg|thumb|The Yellow Mounds]] ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} [[File:Golden Glow Canyon.jpg|thumb|Door Trail, beyond "The Door"]] *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== [[File:Badlands National Park, South Dakota - 49512453337.jpg|thumb|The terrain is steep and loose in places.]] Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is such that most impacts from casual access washes away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. [[File:View of badland formations during golden hour from Cedar Pass Campground, Badlands National Park, 2009.jpg|thumb|View from Cedar Pass Campground]] * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. Rain makes many routes in the park impassible. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. ===Hiking and activities=== *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns and attractions: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''', {{convert|2|miles}} south of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''', {{mi|30}} northwest of park headquarters. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available, especially the famous Wall Drug store. *'''[[Rapid City]]''', {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. *'''[[Minuteman Missile National Historic Site]]'''. This ICBM site could rain down nuclear devastation six thousand miles away in 30 minutes. Guided tours of launch control are available. The '''Black Hills''' to the west feature a variety of popular sights and destinations: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} 8a04cui4krlhlfcs0o6v6zdscnb3i87 5091123 5091120 2025-07-11T01:17:31Z Gerode 2196717 /* Open Hike Policy */ copyediting 5091123 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Badlands_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Badlands National Park''' is a [[United States national parks|national park]] in southwestern [[South Dakota]]. This park is marked by rugged "[[badlands]]" terrain, sharply contrasting with the rolling hills and prairie surrounding it. The rock and soil formations resemble a science fiction landscape of another world - domes, twisted canyons and slanted walls striped in different colors. The park also contains the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The most endangered land mammal in North America, the black footed ferret, was re-introduced to the {{convert|64,000|acres|adj=on}} Badlands Wilderness Area. The park also contains some of the world's richest [[Paleontology|fossil beds]] from the Oligocene epoch, dating back around 20-35 million years. ==Understand== [[Image:Badlands.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Badlands late summer scene]] The park is divided into two sections (on either side of State Route 44, which cuts through at the park's narrowest point): * The '''North Unit''', the most popular area with most of the easily-accessible attractions. * The '''South Unit''' (also known as the '''Stronghold District'''), a largely-roadless backcountry on the Pine Ridge Reservation co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. ===Natural history=== During the youth of the [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], about 60 million years ago, large number of streams carried eroded soil, rock and other materials eastward from the range. These materials were deposited on the vast lowlands which are today called the [[Great Plains]]. Dense vegetation grew in these lowlands, then fell into swamps, and was later buried by new layers of sediments. Millions of years later, this plant material turned into lignite coal. Some of the plant life became petrified, and we can find large amounts of exposed petrified wood in the badlands. While sediments continued to be deposited, more streams cut down through the soft rock layers, carving the variety of mesas, buttes, rock formations, pinnacles, spires and valleys are the features of the badlands seen today. ===Human history=== For eleven thousand years humans used the area for hunting. They hunted bison, rabbits, and other animals. Fossils hunters arrived after the 1840s. Trappers traveling from Fort Pierre to Fort Laramie collected fossils. One fossil ended up being described in the American Journal of Science. Within decades new species were being discovered. Homesteaders arrived at the end of the 19th century and the US government removed the natives from their land. This culminated in the massacre at [[Wounded Knee]], which is approximately {{convert|45|miles}} south of the park in the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Dust Bowl of the 1930s prompted many homesteaders to move elsewhere. Some who stayed are still there today. The United States Air Force took possession of more than {{convert|340,000|acres}} of the Pine Ridge Reservation and about {{convert|340|acres}} of what was then Badlands National Monument and used it extensively between 1942 and 1945 as a gunnery range. This is now the Stronghold unit of the park and is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Unexploded ordnance remains in the area. ===Flora and fauna=== [[File:Bison Badlands South Dakota.jpg|thumb|Bison]] While the badlands terrain may appear to be barren, there is a great variety of wildlife and plant life here. The minimal annual precipitation feeds the grasses and wildflowers of the badlands. The brilliant colors of the blooms add to the palette of grays, browns, reds, ochres and greens of the land. The wildlife includes nearly two hundred species of birds, (mule and white tail) deer, prairie dogs, pronghorn, big horn sheep, and bison. Other mammals in the park include bats, rabbits, and coyotes. The park has reintroduced the black footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America, to the Sage Creek Wilderness area. Reptiles and amphibians include frogs, toads, and snakes. ====Non-native species of plants==== Dozens of non-native species of plants have been brought by settlers through deliberate or accidental means. The park is actively working to remove the non-native plants and restore the prairie to its original condition. ===Climate=== The park is windy. Summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter begins in November, although blizzards in late October may occur. High temperatures around 40°F (4.4°C) with lows below 0°F (-18°C) and high winds creating much lower windchill. Snow is likely and blizzards are possible. March is difficult. Temperatures may fluctuate dramatically within a few hours. Blizzards are still possible, and so is 60°F (15.5°C) weather. Spring begins in April. With snow melting and April rains, the park is very wet. The unpaved roads can be difficult or impossible to pass and trails may be slippery and unpleasant. Temperatures at night is typically below freezing. The park receives most of its rain between April and June. Showers may be brief or last for days. July is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can surpass 90°F (32°C). August is the hottest when temperatures can break 100°F (38°C). Evenings are about 75°F (24°C). In September the temperatures begin to cool off in the second half of the month. October is much cooler although a few days may break 80°F (27°C). ===Geology=== The badlands are formed by water and wind erosion, losing about an inch (2.54 centimeters) a year. About five millions years ago the land uplifted and triggered the erosion processes that created the badlands. ===Paleontology=== The fossils found in the park date from The Age of Mammals, including ancestors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, dog, and others. Fossilized sea shells and turtle shells have also been found in the park. There are no dinosaur fossils in the park. Approximately 30 million years ago the area was warmer and lush. Many mammals roamed the area and died in floods and quickly buried in sediment, providing an abundance of vertebrate fossils. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law.''' Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm Park website] Dogs and other pets are allowed in the park but only in developed areas such as campgrounds, parking lots, and along the roads. Leashes are required and must not be longer than 6 feet (1.8 meters). Pets are not allowed on the hiking trails. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Badlands Wilderness Area. '''Digging and/or moving fossils or artifacts from their locations in the ground is prohibited by Federal law. Offenders are subject to heavy fines and possibly jail.''' If you find some fossils or artifacts, note all details, and then stop by the Cedar Pass Contact Station and make a report. The park's goal of maintaining the prairie ecosystem requires using fire. Park visitors, however, should not start any fires anywhere in the park. ==Get in== The park is about {{convert|50|miles}} southeast of [[Rapid City]], the only large city within a few hours' drive. ===By car=== '''Interstate 90''' passes near the north side of the park. * Exit 131 ([[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Northeast Entrance|lat=43.78887|long=-101.90356}}. * Exit 110 ([[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]) leads to the {{marker|type=go|name=Pinnacles Entrance|lat=43.88406|long=-102.23873}}. '''State Route 44''' passes near the south side of the park and the {{marker|type=go|name=Interior Entrance|lat=43.74232|long=-101.95658}}. '''From Rapid City''', both routes have a similar drive time to the Visitor Center in the east part of the park, but I-90 provides better access to the Pinnacles Entrance. ===By plane=== '''[[Rapid City#By plane|Rapid City Regional Airport]]''' ({{IATA|RAP}}) is served by five airlines with nonstop service to [[Minneapolis]], [[Denver]], [[Chicago]], [[Phoenix]], [[Las Vegas]], and [[Salt Lake City]]. There are also seasonal direct flights to [[Charlotte]] and [[Orlando]]. Onsite car rental services are available. ===By bus=== '''Greyhound''' serves Rapid City. ==Fees and permits== Entrance Fees as of 2020 are: * $15 Individual (Hiking, Bicycling, etc.) * $25 Motorcycle * $30 Private Vehicle * $50 Commercial Van, 7 to 15 passenger capacity * $60 Commercial Minibus, 16 to 25 passenger capacity * $150 Commercial Motorcoach, 26 or more passenger capacity Members of the Oglala Sioux tribe can buy the 7-day pass at half price. {{USA national park passes}} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The '''Badlands Loop Road''', also designated '''State Route 240''', is a {{mi|27}} scenic drive that connects most of the attractions in the park. It is the only paved road in the park. The speed limit is {{mph|45}} unless otherwise posted. The '''Sage Creek Rim Road''' is an unpaved (but well-maintained) road leading to a few viewpoints west of the Pinnacles Entrance. Pull off to allow faster traffic to pass, but only where there is sufficient space for your vehicle. Do not pull off onto the grass. ===By bicycle=== Bicycles are allowed only on designated roads (paved, gravel, and dirt) within the park. Off road bicycling, bicycling in the backcountry, or bicycling on hiking trails is prohibited. Bicycle racks are located at the Cedar Pass Lodge and some trailheads. Remember to carry enough water and wear appropriate clothing and sun protection. Be sure to check road conditions, especially gravel and dirt roads. ===By horse=== A part of the Sage Creek Campground is designated for horses. However, no water is suitable for human consumption and horses unaccustomed to badlands water likely will not drink. Bring one gallon per person per day of water and five gallons per horse per day. Feed must be pellets or weed free hay; contact park staff for details. Hitching posts available and horses are not allowed to run free. Picket pins should be moved frequently to prevent overgrazing. Maximum stay is fourteen nights. There are no horse trails. ==See== ===North Unit=== [[File:Visitor Center PA100237.JPG|thumb|Ben Reifel Visitor Center]] *{{see | name=Ben Reifel Visitor Center | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/visit-ben-reifel.htm | email= | address=25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior | lat=43.74924 | long=-101.94149 | directions={{convert|9|miles}} south of I-90 exit 131 | phone=+1 605 433-5361 | tollfree= | hours=Summer (May-Sep) 8AM–5PM, Winter (Oct-Apr) 9AM–4PM, daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the North Unit, with exhibits on wildlife, geology and paleontology. The Badlands Natural History Association operates a shop with educational materials for sale. Bus and RV parking is available. }} * {{see | name=Badlands Loop Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The {{mi|27}} Badlands Loop Road offers many overlooks with parking lots. The road itself is not actually a loop; drive it one-way from either entrance, or make a loop with I-90 or SR-44. Restroom facilities are located at a few overlooks. Allow about 2 hours for a leisurely drive and a visit to each lookout. }} ** {{see | name=Pinnacles Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86924 | long=-102.23417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Ancient Hunters Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/ancient-hunters.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.86587 | long=-102.22695 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} [[File:Yellow Mounds Paleosol & Interior Paleosol (Upper Eocene; White River Badlands, South Dakota, USA) 2.jpg|thumb|The Yellow Mounds]] ** {{see | name=Yellow Mounds Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/yellow-mounds-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84331 | long=-102.19475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Features the brightly-colored yellow rock layer, one of the oldest layers in the park. }} ** {{see | name=Conata Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/conata-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.84247 | long=-102.19017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Homestead Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/homestead-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.82191 | long=-102.17568 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A view of the marginal White River Valley farmlands that homesteaders tried to make work in the late 1800s. }} ** {{see | name=Burns Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/burns-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.80372 | long=-102.13659 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Prairie Wind Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/prairie-wind-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79185 | long=-102.08846 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Interpretive signs describe the vast prairie to the north. }} ** {{see | name=Panorama Point | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/panorama-point.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79558 | long=-102.06081 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=An immersive view of the badlands landscape towards the White River. }} ** {{see | name=Big Foot Pass Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/bigfoot-pass-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.79589 | long=-102.04602 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The route through the badlands chosen by Chief Big Foot on their ill-fated flight to [[Wounded Knee]] in 1890. }} ** {{see | name=White River Valley Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/white-river-valley-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78887 | long=-102.03308 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Big Badlands Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/big-badlands-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.78496 | long=-101.90017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Sage Creek Rim Road Scenic Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=This {{mi|7}} unpaved (but well-maintained) road heads west from the Pinnacles Entrance, for an option to extend your loop. Allow about 30 minutes. }} ** {{see | name=Sage Creek Basin Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/sage-creek-basin-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.90295 | long=-102.33080 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Roberts Prairie Dog Town | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.90519 | long=-102.30703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Badlands Wilderness Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/badlands-wilderness-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.88155 | long=-102.26424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ** {{see | name=Hay Butte Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/hay-butte-overlook.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.87554 | long=-102.25597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===South Unit=== * {{see | name=White River Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/white-river-vc.htm | email= | address=2734 BIA 2, Porcupine | lat=43.51148 | long=-102.49651 | directions={{convert|30|miles}} south of [[Scenic]] in the Pine Ridge Reservation | phone=+1 605 455-2878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily May-Sep 9AM–4PM, closed in winter | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The main facility in the South Unit, with an information desk, movie, exhibits, restrooms, picnic areas, and water. The center also has information about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, on which it is located. }} * {{see | name=Red Shirt Table Overlook | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/places/red-shirt-table-overlook.htm | email= | address=BIA 41 | lat=43.55916 | long=-102.88634 | directions=South of Red Shirt on the Pine Ridge Reservation, about {{convert|30|miles}} outside of Hermosa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Provides a great view and hike for those who wish to see the Stronghold Unit of the Badlands, which may be ideal for those staying in the Black Hills or [[Custer State Park]] who may not be able to travel through the official loop. }} ==Do== ===Hiking=== The North Unit features eight established trails, with trailheads along the Badlands Loop Road. Six of them are less than {{mi|1.25}} each, making them easy to combine with the scenic overlooks for a full day of exploration. *{{do | name=Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75047 | long=-101.93123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|0.9}} loop. This trail provides spectacular views of the White River Valley. It includes some boardwalk and stairs and climbs approximately 200 feet (61 meters). The parking lot cannot accommodate long vehicles or vehicles towing trailers. }} [[File:Golden Glow Canyon.jpg|thumb|Door Trail, beyond "The Door"]] *{{do | name=Door Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76357 | long=-101.92683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.75}} round trip. The first {{yd|150}} is accessible boardwalk. This trail focuses on geology. The trail goes through a break in the Badlands Wall called "The Door". }} *{{do | name=Fossil Exhibit Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.77251 | long=-102.00300 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.3}} loop. This trail is fully accessible. The trail includes exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area. During the summer, presentations by park naturalists are offered. }} *{{do | name=Notch Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76024 | long=-101.92820 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate to strenuous {{mi|1.5}} round trip. This trail climbs up a ladder and through a slot canyon to a wonderful view of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation. This trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be very dangerous just after rains. Sturdy hiking boots and plenty of sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) are recommended. }} *{{do | name=Saddle Pass Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.75800 | long=-101.97448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Strenuous {{mi|0.3}} and very steep, it connects Castle Trail and Medicine Root Loop to the Badlands Loop Road. The trail is impassable after rain. }} *{{do | name=Window Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.76052 | long=-101.92789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Easy {{mi|0.25}} round trip. This trail is accessible to athletic wheelchair users or with assistance. This trail goes to a natural "window" in the Badlands Wall. }} Two longer interconnecting trails create a small network of hike options. *{{do | name=Medicine Loop Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|4}}. Here the mixed grass prairie combines with long distance views of the Badlands. Be on the lookout for prickly pear cacti. }} *{{do | name=Castle Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Moderate {{mi|10}} round trip. This is the longest trail in the park. The trail is mostly level and winds through some formations. The Medicine Root Trail makes a loop within the Castle Trail from any connecting trailhead. }} ====Open Hike Policy==== [[File:Badlands National Park, South Dakota - 49512453337.jpg|thumb|The terrain is steep and loose in places.]] Unlike many other National Parks that tightly control off-trail travel, at Badlands you are allowed to hike off-trail anywhere in the park that you can visit safely, including the informal social trails leading up to interesting formations. The rate of erosion in the park is so fast that the impact from a respectful hiker will wash away with the next rainstorm. The Open Hike Policy also means that you are free to walk off a cliff, unencumbered by the fences and signage you may be accustomed to. Hike at your own risk. ===Ranger talks=== Several ranger talks are offered throughout the day at various locations. The schedule changes frequently; inquire at a visitor center. There is an amphitheater in the Cedar Pass Campground, near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. In the summer months, park rangers give a 40-minute presentation on an aspect of the park. ==Buy== '''Ben Reifel Visitor Center''' and '''Cedar Pass Lodge''' both have large gift shops with a variety of handmade gifts and crafts, apparel, and sourvenirs. Convenience food and snack items are also available. If you need more shopping options, head to [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open daily from mid April to mid October—Summer Season Hours: 7AM-8:30PM; Fall Season Hours: 8AM- 4:30PM. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a view from your table of the badlands. The restaurant is AAA approved and buses are welcome. }} ===Picnic areas=== There are picnic areas at Big Foot Pass Overlook, on Conata Road, and both visitor centers. Picnic tables are also located near the Cedar Pass Campground. No water is available and fires are strictly prohibited. ==Drink== Water is available at the visitor centers and in the campground April 15 - October 15, weather dependent. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/ | email= | address=20681 South Dakota Highway 240, Interior | lat=43.74776 | long=-101.94536 | directions= | phone=+1 605 433-5460 | tollfree=+1 855 765-0737 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Mid-April through mid-October. The only overnight lodging within Badlands NP. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended. The 26 cabin units are Eco friendly and are equipped with custom, regionally made pine furniture, Energy Star refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, on demand hot water, flat screen TV, ceiling fan, and AC/heat. }} There are hotels just south of the park in [[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]] and further north in [[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]. ===Camping=== There are two campgrounds within the park. [[File:View of badland formations during golden hour from Cedar Pass Campground, Badlands National Park, 2009.jpg|thumb|View from Cedar Pass Campground]] * {{sleep | name=Cedar Pass Campground | alt= | url=https://www.cedarpasslodge.com/lodging/cedar-pass-rv-campground/ | email= | address= | lat=43.74631 | long=-101.94834 | directions=near Ben Reifel Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$23 Tent, $38 RV Sites, $40 Group Campsites (2020 rates) | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime. }} * {{sleep | name=Sage Creek Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/campgrounds-badl.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.89497 | long=-102.41341 | directions=off State Highway 377 | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Free | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=A free primitive campground, and all sites are first-come, first-served. Pit toilets. The campground rarely fills to capacity. }} ===Backcountry=== Backpackers can camp anywhere in the park that is at least one half mile from the road. Open fires are not permitted within the park. All backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, to better plan your trip and to alert the Park Service rangers to your presence. ==Stay safe== *'''Weather'''. Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in the summer, while winter temperatures can dip below 0°F (-18°C). Temperatures fluctuate through the day, sometimes widely. Thunderstorms and blizzards can come up suddenly. Rain makes many routes in the park impassible. *'''Wildlife'''. The animals in the park are less of a threat to visitors who pay them the proper respect. However, ending up on the wrong end of a bison can mean a hospital stay or death for the park visitor. Visitors should also be wary of the poisonous (but seldom deadly) prairie rattlesnakes. *'''Prickly pear cactus'''. These small cacti hide in the prairie grass. Wear shoes with thick soles and watch you step. If their flowers are blooming, they are easier to spot. *'''[[Water]]'''. There is no potable water in the park except at the visitor centers. Boiling, filtering, or treating with chemicals does '''not''' make the water drinkable. ===Hiking and activities=== *'''Exposure'''. Carry plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), a hat, appropriate sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also consider that the park can be very windy. *'''Getting lost'''. The vast areas of the park off the established trails can become very confusing. Good map reading and land navigation skills required. *'''Unexploded ordnance'''. The Stronghold unit has any number of unexploded bombs and shells left over from the 1940s when the United States Air Force used the land as a gunnery range. When exploring the area keep an eye out. Do not touch any unexploded ordnance. Note the location and notify park rangers as soon as possible. ==Go next== Nearby towns and attractions: *'''[[Interior (South Dakota)|Interior]]''', {{convert|2|miles}} south of the park on Highway 44. Services and facilities include a post office, grocery store, gas stations, and auto service year round. *'''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''', {{mi|30}} northwest of park headquarters. Motels, banking, pharmacy, medical clinic, gas, restaurants, and most services are available, especially the famous Wall Drug store. *'''[[Rapid City]]''', {{convert|75|miles}} west of the park headquarters. *'''[[Minuteman Missile National Historic Site]]'''. This ICBM site could rain down nuclear devastation six thousand miles away in 30 minutes. Guided tours of launch control are available. The '''Black Hills''' to the west feature a variety of popular sights and destinations: * The '''[[Crazy Horse Memorial]]'''. A massive sculpture that is still being built on the side of a mountain to honor a famous Native chief. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]'''. The faces of four famous American presidents carved into the side of a mountain. * '''[[Custer State Park]]'''. Home to a large herd of bison as well as other wildlife. Scenic drives. * '''[[Jewel Cave National Monument]]'''. Jewel Cave is the second longest known cave in the world. * '''[[Wind Cave National Park]]'''. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]'''. There are other badlands areas [[Badlands|elsewhere in the US]] and [[Alberta Badlands|in Canada]]. {{geo|43.7500|-102.5000}} {{IsPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{Usablepark}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} bpld454waofvzelvlh16o8raukuzesx 0 2854 5091217 4707100 2025-07-11T06:38:46Z WhatamIdoing 855272 /* Buy */ Added listing for America's Antique Mall 5091217 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Barrington, IL 60010, USA - Wikivoyage banner.jpg|pgname=Barrington}} '''Barrington''' is a city in [[Illinois]]. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|zoom=auto}} {{mapshape}} ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Arboretum of South Barrington | alt= | url=https://www.shopthearb.com/ | address=100 W. Higgins Road | lat= | long= | directions=Near the four-way interchange at I-90 at the intersection of Illinois Routes 59 and 72 | phone=+1 847-426-6200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-10-23 | content=The Arboretum of South Barrington is an open-air shopping center hosting over 60 stores like DSW, Jos. A. Bank, and Victoria's Secret, and the iPic Theater, that offers light dining and drinks in the theater. The Arboretum is home to many different tree and plant species. }} * {{buy | name=America's Antique Mall | alt= | url=https://www.americasantiquemall.com/algonquin-il | email= | address=2451 S Randall Rd, Algonquin | lat=42.1338 | long=-88.3342 | directions=13 miles west of Barrington | phone=+1 224-367-6069 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–7PM daily | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=If you're on the hunt for an eye-catching vintage piece or a gift, this is one of the largest antiques stores around. Hundreds of vendor booths in one enormous room. Wear comfortable shoes, and consider bringing a water bottle or a snack. Restrooms and seating area in the back. }} ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 14.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Harvard (Illinois)|Harvard]] | minorl1=[[Crystal Lake]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Chicago]] | minorr1=[[Arlington Heights]] | image2=Metra Union Pacific Northwest icon.png | imagesize2=100 | directionl2=NW | majorl2=[[Harvard (Illinois)|Harvard]] | minorl2=[[Crystal Lake]] | directionr2=SE | majorr2=[[Chicago]] | minorr2=[[Arlington Heights]] }} {{geo|42.153611|-88.131944}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Illinois}} {{outlinecity}} 4oqtgjperwfxsqcmcygfewclb49gjq6 5091218 5091217 2025-07-11T06:39:24Z WhatamIdoing 855272 /* Buy */ Updated listing for Arboretum of South Barrington 5091218 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Barrington, IL 60010, USA - Wikivoyage banner.jpg|pgname=Barrington}} '''Barrington''' is a city in [[Illinois]]. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|zoom=auto}} {{mapshape}} ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Arboretum of South Barrington | alt= | url=https://www.shopthearb.com/ | email= | address=100 W. Higgins Road | lat= | long= | directions=Near the four-way interchange at I-90 at the intersection of Illinois Routes 59 and 72 | phone=+1 847-426-6200 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Arboretum of South Barrington is an open-air shopping center hosting over 60 stores like DSW, Jos. A. Bank, and Victoria's Secret, and the iPic Theater, that offers light dining and drinks in the theater. The Arboretum is home to many different tree and plant species. }} * {{buy | name=America's Antique Mall | alt= | url=https://www.americasantiquemall.com/algonquin-il | email= | address=2451 S Randall Rd, Algonquin | lat=42.1338 | long=-88.3342 | directions=13 miles west of Barrington | phone=+1 224-367-6069 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–7PM daily | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=If you're on the hunt for an eye-catching vintage piece or a gift, this is one of the largest antiques stores around. Hundreds of vendor booths in one enormous room. Wear comfortable shoes, and consider bringing a water bottle or a snack. Restrooms and seating area in the back. }} ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 14.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Harvard (Illinois)|Harvard]] | minorl1=[[Crystal Lake]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Chicago]] | minorr1=[[Arlington Heights]] | image2=Metra Union Pacific Northwest icon.png | imagesize2=100 | directionl2=NW | majorl2=[[Harvard (Illinois)|Harvard]] | minorl2=[[Crystal Lake]] | directionr2=SE | majorr2=[[Chicago]] | minorr2=[[Arlington Heights]] }} {{geo|42.153611|-88.131944}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Illinois}} {{outlinecity}} 97rhhinrcprkvas3qq8z4jmhnnu8oxx 5091219 5091218 2025-07-11T06:41:13Z WhatamIdoing 855272 /* Buy */ Updated listing for Arboretum of South Barrington 5091219 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Barrington, IL 60010, USA - Wikivoyage banner.jpg|pgname=Barrington}} '''Barrington''' is a city in [[Illinois]]. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|zoom=auto}} {{mapshape}} ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Arboretum of South Barrington | alt= | url=https://www.shopthearb.com/ | email= | address=100 W. Higgins Road | lat=42.0751 | long=-88.1857 | directions=Near the four-way interchange at I-90 at the intersection of Illinois Routes 59 and 72 | phone=+1 847-426-6200 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Arboretum of South Barrington is an open-air shopping center hosting over 60 stores like DSW, Jos. A. Bank, and Victoria's Secret, and the iPic Theater, that offers light dining and drinks in the theater. The Arboretum is home to many different tree and plant species. }} * {{buy | name=America's Antique Mall | alt= | url=https://www.americasantiquemall.com/algonquin-il | email= | address=2451 S Randall Rd, Algonquin | lat=42.1338 | long=-88.3342 | directions=13 miles west of Barrington | phone=+1 224-367-6069 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–7PM daily | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=If you're on the hunt for an eye-catching vintage piece or a gift, this is one of the largest antiques stores around. Hundreds of vendor booths in one enormous room. Wear comfortable shoes, and consider bringing a water bottle or a snack. Restrooms and seating area in the back. }} ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 14.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Harvard (Illinois)|Harvard]] | minorl1=[[Crystal Lake]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Chicago]] | minorr1=[[Arlington Heights]] | image2=Metra Union Pacific Northwest icon.png | imagesize2=100 | directionl2=NW | majorl2=[[Harvard (Illinois)|Harvard]] | minorl2=[[Crystal Lake]] | directionr2=SE | majorr2=[[Chicago]] | minorr2=[[Arlington Heights]] }} {{geo|42.153611|-88.131944}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Illinois}} {{outlinecity}} gc3n3y4ssmm8pix6284kwlyblduzfdg 0 3400 5091224 5070668 2025-07-11T07:09:05Z DaGizza 162256 /* Culture */ 5091224 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bengkulu (city) banner.jpg|caption=}} '''Bengkulu''' is the capital of [[Bengkulu province]], which is named after the city, on the island of [[Sumatra]], [[Indonesia]]. With a population of 329,000 (latest estimate for 2014), Bengkulu is the largest city of Bengkulu province. It was founded by the British as their main source of pepper for almost two hundred years, before being exchanged for [[Malacca]] in 1824. The city offers slow-paced and quiet coastal life - locals hang out on the beach in the late afternoon buying freshly caught fish and waiting for the sun to set. == Understand == === History === [[File:COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Een drietal Europese vrouwen gekleed in sarongs met op de achtergrond Fort Marlborough te Benkoelen TMnr 60042951.jpg|thumb|European women in Malay attire walking in front of Fort Marlborough]] Several small chiefdoms ruled what is nowadays the Bengkulu area. These chiefdoms were under the loose suzerainty of the Inderapura Sultanate from southern West Sumatra. They didn’t flourish as much as the settlements in the eastern part of Sumatra that enjoyed the bustling traffic of Malacca Strait; they were far from major population centres, lacked natural harbours, and were swarmed with diseases. Inderapura became a vassal of the Banten Sultanate after its ruler married the daughter of Inderapura’s sultan circa 1560. In 1682, the Dutch attacked Banten and expelled all other Europeans including the British from that town. The British thereupon signed a treaty with some chiefs, so as to maintain a presence in Sumatra. After a failed attempt by Banten-Dutch forces to knock the British out, the British established a trading post under the East Indian Company, named the area Bencoolen, and secured a safe anchorage spot for their ships. Their first fort (Fort York) didn’t last very long, leading them to build Fort Marlborough in 1714, which still robustly stands today. This trading post brought the British only trouble, as it was never profitable, quarrels constantly broke out with the locals, and the local climate was deemed highly unpleasant; yet in spite of all of this, the British remained for another century. In 1807, a rebellion broke out to end the rule of Thomas Parr, the Resident of Bencoolen at that time. He was killed and decapitated in his home during the uprising. Founder of modern Singapore, Thomas Stamford Raffles landed in Bencoolen on 19 March 1818 to assume the rule of the colony’s Governor General. He managed to abolish slavery, sent in convict labourers from India, and limited cockfighting and similar games among locals. During his time, the tug-of-war between the British and the Dutch concerning the archipelago once again took place. Somehow it was resolved in the Anglo-Dutch Treaty in 1824, in which British Bencoolen was ceded in exchange for Dutch Malacca. Bencoolen (which became Bengkoelen and Bengkulu later) remained part of the Dutch East Indies until the Japanese occupation in World War II. During Sukarno's imprisonment by the Dutch in the early 1930s, the future first president of Indonesia lived briefly in Bengkulu where he met his wife, Fatmawati. After independence, the city became part of Sumatra Province, then South Sumatra Province, and finally was made capital of the newly-formed Bengkulu Province. Bengkulu lies near the Sunda Fault and is prone to earthquakes and tsunamis. In June 2000, an earthquake killed at least 100 people. A series of earthquakes struck Bengkulu later during September 2007, killing 13 people. A 2016 report stated that Bengkulu is at risk of inundation over the next few decades from undersea earthquakes predicted along the coast of Sumatra. === Talk === Indonesian is widely used in the city for official business, education, commerce, and service purposes. Locals also speak Bengkulunese Malay, lingua franca of the province, especially when conversing among themselves. Both are mutually intelligible, with little adaptation required. Foreign languages are rarely heard in the city. Basic Indonesian knowledge helps a lot during your stay here. Youths should be able to hold conversation in basic English, although most of them will be quite shy about engaging in conversation in a foreign tongue. Despite that, locals are very happy to help and try their best. === Climate === ==Get in== ===By plane=== *{{go | name=Fatmawati Soekarno Airport | alt={{IATA|BKS}} | url=http://airportbks.dephub.go.id/ | email= | address= | lat=-3.861883 | long=102.336739 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1880024 | content=Serves Bengkulu, the city and the province. As of 2016, there are eight, daily direct flights from [[Jakarta]] (both [[Soekarno-Hatta International Airport]] and Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in [[East Jakarta]]), as well as direct flights from [[Palembang]], [[Batam]], and [[Bandar Lampung]]. The airport also connects the city to several small towns inland. There is no direct international flight to Bengkulu, and domestic flights are few and tend to be rather expensive. The airport itself consists of two terminals, one is used for high-ranking government service. You can find airlines ticket counters and ATM gallery on the landside of two-storey main terminal, as well as restaurant, gift shop, and lounge on the airside. }} To go to the city centre (14 km to the northwest of the airport), you can hail taxi with meter from the arrival hall. The ride costs about Rp120.000 and takes around 20 minutes. There are also illegal taxicabs that offers slightly cheaper price. ===By bus=== * {{Listing|name=Siliwangi Antar Nusa|alt=SAN|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+62 21 4705502|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=Jakarta-Bengkulu Rp350.000 (25 hours), Padang-Bengkulu Rp200.000 (12 hours)|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-12|content=SAN buses to Bengkulu would take Trans-Sumatran Highway East Route that passes through towns. In turn, the road is in better condition and safer to travel.}} * {{Listing|name=Putra Rafflesia|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+62 21 4892717|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=Jakarta-Bengkulu Rp.340.000 (22 hours), Pekanbaru-Bengkulu Rp220.000|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-12|content=Putra Rafflesia buses to Bengkulu takes Trans-Sumatera West Route which cuts the travel time but the road is not as good as its eastern counterpart as it passes some jungles and hills (Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park).}} *{{Listing|name=CSH 88|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+62 736 23088|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=Jakarta-Bengkulu (Rp280.000)|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-12|content=}} There are also several van travel services that ply the route between [[Padang]] and Palembang toward Bengkulu. Journey from/to Padang may pass Muara Bungo and Sarolangun in Jambi province (Trans-Sumatran Highway East Route) or the coastal road that go through Mukomuko and Painan (Trans-Sumatran Highway West Route). The latter offers less winding roads, although at some spots, there are potholes and damaged section due to its proximity to the beach. You should ask the travel counter before booking any ticket. Example: Loket Bus PO. SAN Padang, daily 10:00, Rp375,000 (Mar 2024), duration 18h, ac, no power/wifi. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|-3.83|102.29|zoom=11|height=350|width=250|align=right|name=Bengkulu}} === By minivan === Minivan (''angkot'') acts as the city's sole public transport system. Riding the minivan will also give you insight into the daily life in the city, since its service covers most of Bengkulu, including traditional markets, business districts, and residential areas. There are neither fixed timetables nor proper stops. You can hail and alight from anywhere along the streets. State your destination before you board and pay when you alight. As of 2016, it costs Rp4.000 per trip regardless of distance. Operating hour is 06AM-06PM. The drivers usually wait for their van to be filled, which may prolong your waiting time. They are not likely to speak English, so you'll need basic knowledge of Indonesian to ask for information or anything else. Words you need to know are "''kiri''" (kee-ree) or "''minggir''" (meeng-gear) which indicates you want to alight. The minivan is colour- and alphabet-coded, based on which line it's operated in. Each alphabet actually has suffix to indicate certain route it takes, but in practice only Green and Red minivan follow the convention. * {{Listing|name=Yellow minivan/A line|alt=angkot kuning|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-13|content=}} * {{Listing|name=Green minivan/B line|alt=angkot hijau|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-13|content=}} * {{Listing|name=Red minivan/C line|alt=angkot merah|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-13|content=}} * {{Listing|name=Blue minivan/D line|alt=angkot biru|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-13|content=}} * {{Listing|name=White minivan/E line|alt=angkot putih|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-13|content=}} === By car === === By taxi === === By walking and other means === ==See== === Architecture === * [[File:Fort marlborough 1.jpg|thumb|Entrance gate of Fort Marlborough, shown on picture the bridge over the fort's moat]]{{see | name=Fort Marlborough | alt=Benteng Malabero | url= | email= | address=Jalan Benteng | lat=-3.787093 | long=102.251848 | directions=take yellow minivan, say "benteng" to the driver | phone= | tollfree= | hours=08:00-17:00 | price=Entrance fee Rp5.000 | wikidata=Q5471595 | lastedit=2016-12-12 | content=The largest British fortress in Southeast Asia. It was built in 1714 until 1741 to replace obliterated Fort York. The fortress acts as a museum. It is well preserved with neat garden and signages telling history of the fort. The complex overlooks a vast bay as well as Bengkulu's Chinatown. }} *{{see | name=Thomas Parr Monument | alt=Tugu Thomas Parr | url= | email= | address=Jalan Achmad Yani | lat=-3.78874 | long=102.251 | directions=on your way to Fort Marlborough you should see this building, as it stands out with its dome and Doric columns | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q20042862 | lastedit=2016-12-12 | content=Located 170 m south of Fort Marlborough. It is a mausoleum of Thomas Parr, a British governor that was killed during a rebellion. As of 2008, the surrounding garden turned into a tiled plaza. }} *{{see | name=British Cemetery | alt=Kompleks Makam Inggris | url= | email= | address=Jalan Rejamat | lat=-3.792981 | long=102.25341 | directions=take yellow minivan, say "makam Inggris" to the driver | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-17:00 | price=Free. You may give tips to the cemetery guard | lastedit=2016-12-12 | content=A compound of 18th-century British cemetery. Only 50 European style headstones remained as of 2016. Bring umbrella or visit the place in the morning/late afternoon since there is no shaded area around. }} *{{see | name=Bung Karno Seclusion House | alt=Rumah Pengasingan Bung Karno | url= | email= | address=Jalan Soekarno-Hatta | lat=-3.798991 | long=102.26126 | directions=take yellow minivan, say "rumah Bung Karno" to the driver | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=Entrance fee Rp3.500 | wikidata=Q16878966 | lastedit=2016-12-12 | content=The abode of first to-be Indonesian president, Sukarno, during his banishment in Bengkulu by the Dutch from 1934 to 1942. The house became museum afterward, with collections including Sukarno's books, drawings, furniture, and articles of clothing. }} *{{see | name=Fatmawati House | alt=Rumah Ibu Fatmawati | url= | email= | address=Jalan Fatmawati | lat=-3.795018 | long=102.265048 | directions=follow along the pedestrian walk opposite of Sukarno house, head northwest. Upon reaching roundabout, take the first exit to Jalan Fatmawati, and head south | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=Entrance fee Rp3,500 | wikidata=Q108934500 | lastedit=2016-12-12 | content=A museum to commemorate Sukarno's wife. The house was built in Bengkulunese vernacular architecture style which is getting rare as people favours more modern style. }} === Beaches === [[File:Pantai panjang casuarina.jpg|thumb|221x221px|Casuarina grows abundantly along the coast of Bengkulu, making all of its beaches looks distinct from other Indonesian beaches]]Bengkulu boasts numbers of white sand beach with groves of casuarina (instead of coconut trees you'd usually imagine of tropical beaches would look like). Surfing and swimming are generally not allowed, considering the rip current and sharp corals of the shores. * {{see | name=Panjang Beach | alt=Pantai Panjang | url= | email= | address=Jalan Samudera | lat=-3.812313 | long=102.266447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free entry, parking ticket Rp5,000 | wikidata=Q31173911 | lastedit=2016-12-15 | content=Pantai Panjang means long beach, as it stretches for 7 kilometres. Not only noted for its length, the beach itself extends for 500 metres during the low tide. You'll find numerous huts that sell foods and drinks. Some also provides benches to lounge around. The city government continually tries to expropriate the lands since they are deemed to pollute the beach and encourage questionable activities. Jogging track/breakwater is also built along the shore where most locals workout on the weekend. }} * {{see | name=Jakat Beach | alt=Pantai Jakat | url= | email= | address=Bencoolen Street | lat=-3.7848 | long=102.2555 | directions=head west from Fort Malborough | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free entry, parking ticket Rp5,000 | lastedit=2016-12-15 | content=Beach featured on this page's banner. Nestled in Segara Bay, the water here is deemed calmer and safer. You can swim as well as rent jet-ski or banana boat. Near the road, you can find many stalls selling fish and deep fried seafood for a cheap price. }} * {{see | name=Sungai Suci Beach | alt=Pantai Sungai Suci | url= | email= | address=Jalan Pekik Nyaring | lat=-3.719546 | long=102.235571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Entry fee Rp5,000 per person, another Rp5,000 if you want to cross the bridges | wikidata=Q28725154 | lastedit=2016-12-15 | content=The beach is located just outside the city border. You'll need a private vehicle since it settles quite far from the major road. The beach features cliffs and a large offshore rock that makes it distinct from any other beaches in Bengkulu. The rock is connected to the mainland by rope bridges. }} * {{see|name=Teluk Sepang Beach|alt=Pantai Teluk Sepang|url=|email=|address=Pelabuhan Pulau Baai|lat=-3.9199|long=102.2722|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2016-12-15|content=You may encounter seashore wildlife such as small fish and invertebrate on the beach's tide pools. Its proximity to the city's seaport thankfully does not affect its condition. Locals usually flock nearby the lighthouse}} === Culture === Once a year, ten days after Islamic New Year, Bengkulu city commemorates the fall of Husein, grandson of prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala on 10 Muharram 61 AH (10 October 681 AD). The ceremony is called Tabut which means coffin or wooden chest. The tradition is presumably brought by Shiite Madrasi and Bengali workers who were employed to built Fort Marlborough. As they intermarried with the local Malay, the tradition lived and kept for generations. Despite its religious root, the tradition had got more secular as the time passes. Their descendants (aptly named Tabut family) embraced Sunni denomination to assimilate further with the locals, other reasons being the government promotes it as an elaborate tourism event, as well as the recent negative sentiment towards Shiite sect held by most Indonesians. The ceremony lasts for 10 days. There are several smaller ceremonies you may see: * '''''Mengambik Tanah'''''. At 1 Muharram, the Tabut family comes to sacred cemeteries (one in the west of Fort Marlborough and another one in Pantai Panjang) at night to collect soil from the burial site. This soil lumps will be made into a shape of human body. After that, the family breaks into two groups (Bangsal and Berkas) - each then stores the soil dolls at their respective place. * '''''Duduk Penja'''''. At 5 Muharram, the families take out sacred jewelleries made of silver, copper, or brass called ''penja''. The ''penjas'' takes form of human palm to symbolise the hand of Husein. The shaman/elder of the families washes the penjas with lime water and flower water at this ceremony and puts out some offerings. The soil doll and the penja is kept inside a coffin, which later will be decorated in a shape of lean pyramidal tower. The decorated coffin is the '''''tabut''''' that each group make some of it. * '''''Menjara & Meradai'''''. At 6 and 7 Muharram, each family will visit each other at their respective place. The visitor will ask the host to compete in drum-beating contest. On their way to the other’s place, they also play the drum and shouting some kind of warcry. People can give a donation to them during this time. * '''''Mengarak'''''. At 8 and 9 Muharram, the ''penjas'' and white turbans is put in small ''tabuts'' and paraded around the old town. At the night of 9 Muharram, the real ''tabuts'' is ready to hit the road where the two groups meet. They will be joined by non-sacred ''tabuts'' (made by the people outside of the family), floats, and art-performers from all over the city. They all then gather in the city’s square. The gathering is called '''''tabut besanding''''' and always accompanied by art performances. * '''''Tabut Tebuang'''''. On the last day, at 10 Muharram, the ''tabuts'' is brought to the grave of Tabut family’s ancestor. There, the soil doll and some parts of the decoration will be put on the grave. The oldest shaman of the family lead the whole ceremony, with some members often get in a trance state during the events. The city certainly becomes livelier during this event. Area surrounding the city’s square will be turned into pasar malam for at least two weeks, with vendors and carnival troupes come from as far as Medan and Surabaya to sell various items at reasonable prices. Usually the ceremony is held in View Tower, Kampung Cina, but in 2018 will be held in Fort Marlborough inline with International Bencoolen Dol Festival. Dol percussion is made from big tree with diameter 70-125 centimeters and is made as a tube and then is covered with cow skin at one end. ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== === Budget === * {{eat | name=Bakso Arema Rizki | alt=Bakso Pasar Baru | url= | email= | address=Jalan Moh. Hasan | lat=-3.79696 | long=102.25426 | directions= | phone=+62 736 25910 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:00-20:30 | price=Rp15,000 per bowl plus iced tea | lastedit=2016-12-15 | content=Serves meatballs soup with noodle and shaved ice desserts. You'll eat on long bench-table, so avoid late afternoon as it gets very crowded. }} * {{eat | name=Warkop Palembang | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jalan Jenderal Sudirman | lat=-3.79213 | long=102.25882 | directions= | phone=+62 736 21259 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=07:00-17:00 | price=Rp12,000-25,000 per dish | lastedit=2016-12-15 | content=Popular place for breakfast. They serve various Chinese-influenced foods such as stir-fried noodle, noodle soup, chicken porridge, and vegetable stew; as well as pempek dishes }} === Mid-range === * {{eat | name=Sembam Ikan Marola | alt=Rumah Makan Marola | url= | email= | address=Jalan Pariwisata | lat=-3.79879 | long=102.25342 | directions= | phone=+62 627 36344354 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:00-21:00 | price=Rp25,000 and up | lastedit=2016-12-15 | content=Serves seafood dishes, both traditional and modern. They count the dish per portion instead of grams, unlike usual seafood place }} === Splurge === ==Drink== Coconut water and sugarcane juice are the most common drinks sold by street vendors and carts. The vendors store coconut water in a refrigerated water jar (comes with coconut shaving), but they make sugarcane juice on order. ==Sleep== === Budget === * {{sleep|name=Samudera Dwinka Hotel|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jalan Jenderal Sudirman|lat=-3.79307|long=102.26215|directions=|phone=+62 736 21604|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=13:00|checkout=11:00|price=Rp200,000 per night and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=1-star hotel}} * {{sleep|name=Xtra Hotel|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jalan Mayjen Sutoyo|lat=-3.8084|long=102.2833|directions=|phone=+62 736 346865|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=13:00|checkout=11:00|price=Rp230,000 per night for double room and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=2-star hotel}} * {{sleep|name=Dena Hotel|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jalan Fatmawati|lat=-3.80041|long=102.26506|directions=|phone=+62 736 341171|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=13:00|checkout=11:00|price=Rp280,000 per night for double room and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=1-star hotel}} === Mid-range === * {{sleep|name=Nala Sea Side|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jalan Pariwisata|lat=-3.82171|long=102.27551|directions=|phone=+62 736 344855|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=14:00|checkout=12:00|price=Rp350,000 per night for double room and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=2-star hotel}} * {{sleep | name=Sinar Sport Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.sinarsporthotel.com/ | email=info@sinarsporthotel.com | address=Jalan Suprapto | lat=-3.795954 | long=102.265236 | directions= | phone=+62 736 7322700 | tollfree= | checkin=13:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=Rp380,000 per night for double room and up | wikidata=Q111138048 | lastedit=2016-12-14 | content=3-star hotel. }} * {{sleep|name=Splash Hotel|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jalan Jenderal Sudirman|lat=-3.79226|long=102.26107|directions=|phone=+62 736 23333|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=13:00|checkout=11:00|price=Rp450,000 per night for double room and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=3'star hotel}} * {{sleep|name=Madeline Hotel|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jalan Bhakti Husada|lat=-3.8374|long=102.3049|directions=|phone=+62 736 52777|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=13:00|checkout=11:00|price=Rp500,000 per night for double room and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=2-star hotel}} * {{sleep | name=Santika Hotel Bengkulu | alt= | url=http://www.santika.com/indonesia/bengkulu/hotel-santika-bengkulu/ | email=reservation@bengkulu.santika.com | address=Jalan Raya Jati | lat=-3.79758 | long=102.27265 | directions= | phone=+62 736 25858 | tollfree= | fax=+62 736 25854 | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=Rp500,000 per night for double room and up | wikidata=Q111854721 | lastedit=2016-12-14 | content=3-star hotel. }} === Splurge === * {{sleep|name=Grage Horizon Hotel Bengkulu|alt=|url=http://www.gragehotels.co.id/en/hotel/grage-hotel-bengkulu/|email=info@gragehotelbengkulu.co.id|address=Jalan Pantai Nala|lat=-3.80334|long=102.26011|directions=|phone=+62 736 21722|tollfree=|fax=+62 736 22072|checkin=14:00|checkout=12:00|price=Rp650,000 per night for double room and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=3-star hotel}} == Connect == ==Go next== * Explore the rest of [[Bengkulu (province)|Bengkulu province]]. {{IsPartOf|Bengkulu_(province)}} {{usablecity}} {{geo|-3.7955555555556|102.25916666667}} 07au3avxfrw5ln08spykcxgud3b4jse 5091237 5091224 2025-07-11T07:39:43Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Copy edited. Indonesian and other Malayo-Polynesian languages don't use "s" to make words plural but either leave the words the same or double them. 5091237 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bengkulu (city) banner.jpg|caption=}} '''Bengkulu''' is the capital of [[Bengkulu province]], which is named after the city, on the island of [[Sumatra]], [[Indonesia]]. With a population of 329,000 (latest estimate for 2014), Bengkulu is the largest city of Bengkulu province. It was founded by the British as their main source of pepper for almost two hundred years, before being exchanged for [[Malacca]] in 1824. The city offers slow-paced and quiet coastal life - locals hang out on the beach in the late afternoon buying freshly caught fish and waiting for the sun to set. == Understand == === History === [[File:COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Een drietal Europese vrouwen gekleed in sarongs met op de achtergrond Fort Marlborough te Benkoelen TMnr 60042951.jpg|thumb|European women in Malay attire walking in front of Fort Marlborough]] Several small chiefdoms ruled what is nowadays the Bengkulu area. These chiefdoms were under the loose suzerainty of the Inderapura Sultanate from southern West Sumatra. They didn’t flourish as much as the settlements in the eastern part of Sumatra that enjoyed the bustling traffic of Malacca Strait; they were far from major population centres, lacked natural harbours, and were swarmed with diseases. Inderapura became a vassal of the Banten Sultanate after its ruler married the daughter of Inderapura’s sultan circa 1560. In 1682, the Dutch attacked Banten and expelled all other Europeans including the British from that town. The British thereupon signed a treaty with some chiefs, so as to maintain a presence in Sumatra. After a failed attempt by Banten-Dutch forces to knock the British out, the British established a trading post under the East Indian Company, named the area Bencoolen, and secured a safe anchorage spot for their ships. Their first fort (Fort York) didn’t last very long, leading them to build Fort Marlborough in 1714, which still robustly stands today. This trading post brought the British only trouble, as it was never profitable, quarrels constantly broke out with the locals, and the local climate was deemed highly unpleasant; yet in spite of all of this, the British remained for another century. In 1807, a rebellion broke out to end the rule of Thomas Parr, the Resident of Bencoolen at that time. He was killed and decapitated in his home during the uprising. Founder of modern Singapore, Thomas Stamford Raffles landed in Bencoolen on 19 March 1818 to assume the rule of the colony’s Governor General. He managed to abolish slavery, sent in convict labourers from India, and limited cockfighting and similar games among locals. During his time, the tug-of-war between the British and the Dutch concerning the archipelago once again took place. Somehow it was resolved in the Anglo-Dutch Treaty in 1824, in which British Bencoolen was ceded in exchange for Dutch Malacca. Bencoolen (which became Bengkoelen and Bengkulu later) remained part of the Dutch East Indies until the Japanese occupation in World War II. During Sukarno's imprisonment by the Dutch in the early 1930s, the future first president of Indonesia lived briefly in Bengkulu where he met his wife, Fatmawati. After independence, the city became part of Sumatra Province, then South Sumatra Province, and finally was made capital of the newly-formed Bengkulu Province. Bengkulu lies near the Sunda Fault and is prone to earthquakes and tsunamis. In June 2000, an earthquake killed at least 100 people. A series of earthquakes struck Bengkulu later during September 2007, killing 13 people. A 2016 report stated that Bengkulu is at risk of inundation over the next few decades from undersea earthquakes predicted along the coast of Sumatra. === Talk === Indonesian is widely used in the city for official business, education, commerce, and service purposes. Locals also speak Bengkulunese Malay, lingua franca of the province, especially when conversing among themselves. Both are mutually intelligible, with little adaptation required. Foreign languages are rarely heard in the city. Basic Indonesian knowledge helps a lot during your stay here. Youths should be able to hold conversation in basic English, although most of them will be quite shy about engaging in conversation in a foreign tongue. Despite that, locals are very happy to help and try their best. === Climate === ==Get in== ===By plane=== *{{go | name=Fatmawati Soekarno Airport | alt={{IATA|BKS}} | url=http://airportbks.dephub.go.id/ | email= | address= | lat=-3.861883 | long=102.336739 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1880024 | content=Serves Bengkulu, the city and the province. As of 2016, there are eight, daily direct flights from [[Jakarta]] (both [[Soekarno-Hatta International Airport]] and Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in [[East Jakarta]]), as well as direct flights from [[Palembang]], [[Batam]], and [[Bandar Lampung]]. The airport also connects the city to several small towns inland. There is no direct international flight to Bengkulu, and domestic flights are few and tend to be rather expensive. The airport itself consists of two terminals, one is used for high-ranking government service. You can find airlines ticket counters and ATM gallery on the landside of two-storey main terminal, as well as restaurant, gift shop, and lounge on the airside. }} To go to the city centre (14 km to the northwest of the airport), you can hail taxi with meter from the arrival hall. The ride costs about Rp120.000 and takes around 20 minutes. There are also illegal taxicabs that offers slightly cheaper price. ===By bus=== * {{Listing|name=Siliwangi Antar Nusa|alt=SAN|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+62 21 4705502|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=Jakarta-Bengkulu Rp350.000 (25 hours), Padang-Bengkulu Rp200.000 (12 hours)|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-12|content=SAN buses to Bengkulu would take Trans-Sumatran Highway East Route that passes through towns. In turn, the road is in better condition and safer to travel.}} * {{Listing|name=Putra Rafflesia|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+62 21 4892717|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=Jakarta-Bengkulu Rp.340.000 (22 hours), Pekanbaru-Bengkulu Rp220.000|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-12|content=Putra Rafflesia buses to Bengkulu takes Trans-Sumatera West Route which cuts the travel time but the road is not as good as its eastern counterpart as it passes some jungles and hills (Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park).}} *{{Listing|name=CSH 88|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+62 736 23088|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=Jakarta-Bengkulu (Rp280.000)|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-12|content=}} There are also several van travel services that ply the route between [[Padang]] and Palembang toward Bengkulu. Journey from/to Padang may pass Muara Bungo and Sarolangun in Jambi province (Trans-Sumatran Highway East Route) or the coastal road that go through Mukomuko and Painan (Trans-Sumatran Highway West Route). The latter offers less winding roads, although at some spots, there are potholes and damaged section due to its proximity to the beach. You should ask the travel counter before booking any ticket. Example: Loket Bus PO. SAN Padang, daily 10:00, Rp375,000 (Mar 2024), duration 18h, ac, no power/wifi. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|-3.83|102.29|zoom=11|height=350|width=250|align=right|name=Bengkulu}} === By minivan === Minivan (''angkot'') acts as the city's sole public transport system. Riding the minivan will also give you insight into the daily life in the city, since its service covers most of Bengkulu, including traditional markets, business districts, and residential areas. There are neither fixed timetables nor proper stops. You can hail and alight from anywhere along the streets. State your destination before you board and pay when you alight. As of 2016, it costs Rp4.000 per trip regardless of distance. Operating hour is 06AM-06PM. The drivers usually wait for their van to be filled, which may prolong your waiting time. They are not likely to speak English, so you'll need basic knowledge of Indonesian to ask for information or anything else. Words you need to know are "''kiri''" (kee-ree) or "''minggir''" (meeng-gear) which indicates you want to alight. The minivan is colour- and alphabet-coded, based on which line it's operated in. Each alphabet actually has suffix to indicate certain route it takes, but in practice only Green and Red minivan follow the convention. * {{Listing|name=Yellow minivan/A line|alt=angkot kuning|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-13|content=}} * {{Listing|name=Green minivan/B line|alt=angkot hijau|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-13|content=}} * {{Listing|name=Red minivan/C line|alt=angkot merah|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-13|content=}} * {{Listing|name=Blue minivan/D line|alt=angkot biru|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-13|content=}} * {{Listing|name=White minivan/E line|alt=angkot putih|url=|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|wikipedia=|wikidata=|lastedit=2016-12-13|content=}} === By car === === By taxi === === By walking and other means === ==See== === Architecture === * [[File:Fort marlborough 1.jpg|thumb|Entrance gate of Fort Marlborough, shown on picture the bridge over the fort's moat]]{{see | name=Fort Marlborough | alt=Benteng Malabero | url= | email= | address=Jalan Benteng | lat=-3.787093 | long=102.251848 | directions=take yellow minivan, say "benteng" to the driver | phone= | tollfree= | hours=08:00-17:00 | price=Entrance fee Rp5.000 | wikidata=Q5471595 | lastedit=2016-12-12 | content=The largest British fortress in Southeast Asia. It was built in 1714 until 1741 to replace obliterated Fort York. The fortress acts as a museum. It is well preserved with neat garden and signages telling history of the fort. The complex overlooks a vast bay as well as Bengkulu's Chinatown. }} *{{see | name=Thomas Parr Monument | alt=Tugu Thomas Parr | url= | email= | address=Jalan Achmad Yani | lat=-3.78874 | long=102.251 | directions=on your way to Fort Marlborough you should see this building, as it stands out with its dome and Doric columns | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q20042862 | lastedit=2016-12-12 | content=Located 170 m south of Fort Marlborough. It is a mausoleum of Thomas Parr, a British governor that was killed during a rebellion. As of 2008, the surrounding garden turned into a tiled plaza. }} *{{see | name=British Cemetery | alt=Kompleks Makam Inggris | url= | email= | address=Jalan Rejamat | lat=-3.792981 | long=102.25341 | directions=take yellow minivan, say "makam Inggris" to the driver | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-17:00 | price=Free. You may give tips to the cemetery guard | lastedit=2016-12-12 | content=A compound of 18th-century British cemetery. Only 50 European style headstones remained as of 2016. Bring umbrella or visit the place in the morning/late afternoon since there is no shaded area around. }} *{{see | name=Bung Karno Seclusion House | alt=Rumah Pengasingan Bung Karno | url= | email= | address=Jalan Soekarno-Hatta | lat=-3.798991 | long=102.26126 | directions=take yellow minivan, say "rumah Bung Karno" to the driver | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=Entrance fee Rp3.500 | wikidata=Q16878966 | lastedit=2016-12-12 | content=The abode of first to-be Indonesian president, Sukarno, during his banishment in Bengkulu by the Dutch from 1934 to 1942. The house became museum afterward, with collections including Sukarno's books, drawings, furniture, and articles of clothing. }} *{{see | name=Fatmawati House | alt=Rumah Ibu Fatmawati | url= | email= | address=Jalan Fatmawati | lat=-3.795018 | long=102.265048 | directions=follow along the pedestrian walk opposite of Sukarno house, head northwest. Upon reaching roundabout, take the first exit to Jalan Fatmawati, and head south | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-15:00 | price=Entrance fee Rp3,500 | wikidata=Q108934500 | lastedit=2016-12-12 | content=A museum to commemorate Sukarno's wife. The house was built in Bengkulunese vernacular architecture style which is getting rare as people favours more modern style. }} === Beaches === [[File:Pantai panjang casuarina.jpg|thumb|221x221px|Casuarina grows abundantly along the coast of Bengkulu, making all of its beaches looks distinct from other Indonesian beaches]]Bengkulu boasts numbers of white sand beach with groves of casuarina (instead of coconut trees you'd usually imagine of tropical beaches would look like). Surfing and swimming are generally not allowed, considering the rip current and sharp corals of the shores. * {{see | name=Panjang Beach | alt=Pantai Panjang | url= | email= | address=Jalan Samudera | lat=-3.812313 | long=102.266447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free entry, parking ticket Rp5,000 | wikidata=Q31173911 | lastedit=2016-12-15 | content=Pantai Panjang means long beach, as it stretches for 7 kilometres. Not only noted for its length, the beach itself extends for 500 metres during the low tide. You'll find numerous huts that sell foods and drinks. Some also provides benches to lounge around. The city government continually tries to expropriate the lands since they are deemed to pollute the beach and encourage questionable activities. Jogging track/breakwater is also built along the shore where most locals workout on the weekend. }} * {{see | name=Jakat Beach | alt=Pantai Jakat | url= | email= | address=Bencoolen Street | lat=-3.7848 | long=102.2555 | directions=head west from Fort Malborough | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free entry, parking ticket Rp5,000 | lastedit=2016-12-15 | content=Beach featured on this page's banner. Nestled in Segara Bay, the water here is deemed calmer and safer. You can swim as well as rent jet-ski or banana boat. Near the road, you can find many stalls selling fish and deep fried seafood for a cheap price. }} * {{see | name=Sungai Suci Beach | alt=Pantai Sungai Suci | url= | email= | address=Jalan Pekik Nyaring | lat=-3.719546 | long=102.235571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Entry fee Rp5,000 per person, another Rp5,000 if you want to cross the bridges | wikidata=Q28725154 | lastedit=2016-12-15 | content=The beach is located just outside the city border. You'll need a private vehicle since it settles quite far from the major road. The beach features cliffs and a large offshore rock that makes it distinct from any other beaches in Bengkulu. The rock is connected to the mainland by rope bridges. }} * {{see|name=Teluk Sepang Beach|alt=Pantai Teluk Sepang|url=|email=|address=Pelabuhan Pulau Baai|lat=-3.9199|long=102.2722|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2016-12-15|content=You may encounter seashore wildlife such as small fish and invertebrate on the beach's tide pools. Its proximity to the city's seaport thankfully does not affect its condition. Locals usually flock nearby the lighthouse}} === Culture === Once a year, ten days after the Islamic New Year, Bengkulu city commemorates the fall of Hussein, grandson of prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala on 10 Muharram 61 AH (10 October 681 AD). The ceremony is called Tabut, which means coffin or wooden chest. The tradition is presumably brought by Shiite Madrasi and Bengali workers who were employed to built Fort Marlborough. As they intermarried with the local Malays, the tradition lived and has been kept for generations. Despite its religious roots, the tradition got more secular as the time passes. Their descendants (aptly named the Tabut family) embraced the Sunni denomination to assimilate further with the locals, other reasons being the government promotes it as an elaborate tourism event, as well as the recent negative sentiment towards Shiites held by most Indonesians. The ceremony lasts for 10 days. There are several smaller ceremonies you may see: * '''''Mengambik Tanah'''''. At 1 Muharram, the Tabut family comes to sacred cemeteries (one in the west of Fort Marlborough and another one in Pantai Panjang) at night to collect soil from the burial site. This soil lumps will be made into a shape of human body. After that, the family breaks into two groups (Bangsal and Berkas) - each then stores the soil dolls at their respective place. * '''''Duduk Penja'''''. At 5 Muharram, the families take out sacred jewellery made of silver, copper, or brass called ''penja''. The ''penja'' take the form of the human palm to symbolise the hand of Hussein. The shaman/elder of the families washes the penja with lime water and flower water at this ceremony and puts out some offerings. The soil doll and the penja are kept inside a coffin, which later will be decorated in a shape of lean pyramidal tower. The decorated coffin is the '''''tabut''''' that each group make some of. * '''''Menjara & Meradai'''''. At 6 and 7 Muharram, each family will visit each other at their respective place. The visitor will ask the host to compete in drum-beating contest. On their way to the other’s place, they also play the drum and shouting some kind of war cry. People can give a donation to them during this time. * '''''Mengarak'''''. At 8 and 9 Muharram, the ''penja'' and white turbans are put in a small ''tabut'' and paraded around the old town. At the night of 9 Muharram, the real ''tabut'' is ready to hit the road where the two groups meet. They will be joined by non-sacred ''tabut'' (made by the people outside of the family), floats, and art-performers from all over the city. They all then gather in the city’s square. The gathering is called '''''tabut besanding''''' and always accompanied by art performances. * '''''Tabut Tebuang'''''. On the last day, at 10 Muharram, the ''tabut'' are brought to the grave of the Tabut family’s ancestor. There, the soil doll and some parts of the decoration are put on the grave. The oldest shaman of the family leads the whole ceremony, guiding some members into a trance during the events. The city certainly becomes livelier during this event. Area surrounding the city’s square will be turned into pasar malam for at least two weeks, with vendors and carnival troupes come from as far as Medan and Surabaya to sell various items at reasonable prices. Usually the ceremony is held in View Tower, Kampung Cina, but in 2018 will be held in Fort Marlborough inline with International Bencoolen Dol Festival. Dol percussion is made from big tree with diameter 70-125 centimeters and is made as a tube and then is covered with cow skin at one end. ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== === Budget === * {{eat | name=Bakso Arema Rizki | alt=Bakso Pasar Baru | url= | email= | address=Jalan Moh. Hasan | lat=-3.79696 | long=102.25426 | directions= | phone=+62 736 25910 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:00-20:30 | price=Rp15,000 per bowl plus iced tea | lastedit=2016-12-15 | content=Serves meatballs soup with noodle and shaved ice desserts. You'll eat on long bench-table, so avoid late afternoon as it gets very crowded. }} * {{eat | name=Warkop Palembang | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jalan Jenderal Sudirman | lat=-3.79213 | long=102.25882 | directions= | phone=+62 736 21259 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=07:00-17:00 | price=Rp12,000-25,000 per dish | lastedit=2016-12-15 | content=Popular place for breakfast. They serve various Chinese-influenced foods such as stir-fried noodle, noodle soup, chicken porridge, and vegetable stew; as well as pempek dishes }} === Mid-range === * {{eat | name=Sembam Ikan Marola | alt=Rumah Makan Marola | url= | email= | address=Jalan Pariwisata | lat=-3.79879 | long=102.25342 | directions= | phone=+62 627 36344354 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:00-21:00 | price=Rp25,000 and up | lastedit=2016-12-15 | content=Serves seafood dishes, both traditional and modern. They count the dish per portion instead of grams, unlike usual seafood place }} === Splurge === ==Drink== Coconut water and sugarcane juice are the most common drinks sold by street vendors and carts. The vendors store coconut water in a refrigerated water jar (comes with coconut shaving), but they make sugarcane juice on order. ==Sleep== === Budget === * {{sleep|name=Samudera Dwinka Hotel|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jalan Jenderal Sudirman|lat=-3.79307|long=102.26215|directions=|phone=+62 736 21604|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=13:00|checkout=11:00|price=Rp200,000 per night and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=1-star hotel}} * {{sleep|name=Xtra Hotel|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jalan Mayjen Sutoyo|lat=-3.8084|long=102.2833|directions=|phone=+62 736 346865|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=13:00|checkout=11:00|price=Rp230,000 per night for double room and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=2-star hotel}} * {{sleep|name=Dena Hotel|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jalan Fatmawati|lat=-3.80041|long=102.26506|directions=|phone=+62 736 341171|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=13:00|checkout=11:00|price=Rp280,000 per night for double room and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=1-star hotel}} === Mid-range === * {{sleep|name=Nala Sea Side|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jalan Pariwisata|lat=-3.82171|long=102.27551|directions=|phone=+62 736 344855|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=14:00|checkout=12:00|price=Rp350,000 per night for double room and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=2-star hotel}} * {{sleep | name=Sinar Sport Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.sinarsporthotel.com/ | email=info@sinarsporthotel.com | address=Jalan Suprapto | lat=-3.795954 | long=102.265236 | directions= | phone=+62 736 7322700 | tollfree= | checkin=13:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=Rp380,000 per night for double room and up | wikidata=Q111138048 | lastedit=2016-12-14 | content=3-star hotel. }} * {{sleep|name=Splash Hotel|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jalan Jenderal Sudirman|lat=-3.79226|long=102.26107|directions=|phone=+62 736 23333|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=13:00|checkout=11:00|price=Rp450,000 per night for double room and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=3'star hotel}} * {{sleep|name=Madeline Hotel|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jalan Bhakti Husada|lat=-3.8374|long=102.3049|directions=|phone=+62 736 52777|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=13:00|checkout=11:00|price=Rp500,000 per night for double room and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=2-star hotel}} * {{sleep | name=Santika Hotel Bengkulu | alt= | url=http://www.santika.com/indonesia/bengkulu/hotel-santika-bengkulu/ | email=reservation@bengkulu.santika.com | address=Jalan Raya Jati | lat=-3.79758 | long=102.27265 | directions= | phone=+62 736 25858 | tollfree= | fax=+62 736 25854 | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=Rp500,000 per night for double room and up | wikidata=Q111854721 | lastedit=2016-12-14 | content=3-star hotel. }} === Splurge === * {{sleep|name=Grage Horizon Hotel Bengkulu|alt=|url=http://www.gragehotels.co.id/en/hotel/grage-hotel-bengkulu/|email=info@gragehotelbengkulu.co.id|address=Jalan Pantai Nala|lat=-3.80334|long=102.26011|directions=|phone=+62 736 21722|tollfree=|fax=+62 736 22072|checkin=14:00|checkout=12:00|price=Rp650,000 per night for double room and up|lastedit=2016-12-14|content=3-star hotel}} == Connect == ==Go next== * Explore the rest of [[Bengkulu (province)|Bengkulu province]]. {{IsPartOf|Bengkulu_(province)}} {{usablecity}} {{geo|-3.7955555555556|102.25916666667}} krr4qc2n0x14wcb40sq3v1nkb25h89t 0 3651 5090831 5090701 2025-07-10T13:41:55Z Ibaman 195012 ...?? wtf?? restoring 5090831 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bézier banner.jpg}} '''Béziers''' is a city in the [[Hérault]] department in [[Occitanie]], [[France]]. The city shows signs of Neolithic occupation, but the first recorded settlement was the Roman town of Baeterrae (founded around 35 BCE). Today, Béziers is a regional centre of winemaking, and a good place to base yourself when exploring the southern [[Languedoc]] region. ==Understand== Béziers is in an Occitan-speaking region, and street signs and other official markers are often printed in both French and Occitan. Occitan text is usually marked with a small red and gold cross, though it is often similar to standard French. While most customer service people will speak some English, this is not universal. Béziers was a centre of the [[Christianity#Cathars|Cathars]], and much of its population was massacred in 1209 during the Albigensian Crusade. ==Get in== Ryanair flies to Béziers-Cap d'Agde. You can reach Béziers within an hour from Montpellier, Carcassonne and Perpignan airports. * {{go | name=Béziers Cap d'Agde | alt={{IATA|BZR}} | url=http://www.beziers.aeroport.fr/en | email= | address= | lat=43.323333 | long=3.353333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Béziers Cap d'Agde Airport | image=Aéroport béziers img 2010.jpg | wikidata=Q619817 | content= }} A direct autoroute (Autoroute A75) links Béziers to Paris. Intercity and TGV trains run to Béziers from Paris Gare de Lyon. It is also possible to go to Barcelona by train. * {{listing | type=go | name=Béziers railway station | alt=Gare de Béziers | url=https://www.gares-sncf.com/fr/gare/frbzr/beziers | email= | address=14 Boulevard De Verdun | lat=43.336299 | long=3.218882 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Gare de Béziers | wikidata=Q2801649 | lastedit=2019-04-16 | content= }} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} ===By bus=== There is an excellent local bus service that puts all local towns and villages within easy reach. Try the free "Navette" shuttle bus that takes visitors from the railway and bus stations to the centre of town. ===On foot=== Everything in Béziers is within walking distance, but bear in mind that most of the city is built on a slope – and the airport is 15 km away. The walk from the train station to the town centre is quite steep. ==See== Béziers Old Town offers the walker a warren of largely early medieval streets, extending from the Cathedral to the town centre. The old streets just off the main avenue feature both traditional shops and designer fashion houses. The [[Canal du Midi]], a UNESCO World Heritage Site, passes through Béziers. The canal was the creation of Paul Riquet. In the 17th century he completed the dream of joining the Mediterranean and the Atlantic ocean by a waterway. [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/770] Avenue Paul De Riquet is the place to be seen, sit and drink coffee and watch the world go by. Béziers has a number of small museums that focus on the town and its surroundings. The largest is the Musée de Biterrois, which includes historical and archaeological artefacts from the region. Espace Taurin is a specialist collection with memorabilia and artefacts related to the annual bullfighting festival. * {{see | name=Béziers Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.341389 | long=3.21 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1736174 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Saint Nazaire Cathedral was built in the 13th century and was a major staging point for the Crusades. Stunning views of the Orb valley and the surrounding area are available from the cathedral courtyard - especially at sunset. }} * {{see | name=9 Locks of Fonseranes | alt=Les 9 écluses de Fonseranes | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.330531 | long=3.199456 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q586271 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A remarkable feat of 17th-century engineering, the Fonseranes Locks are one of the highlights of Béziers and a masterpiece of the Canal du Midi. Conceived, funded, and built by Béziers native Pierre-Paul Riquet (1609–1681)—who was also the mastermind behind the entire 240 km of the Canal du Midi linking Toulouse to Sète—this water staircase is an impressive example of civil engineering and architectural ingenuity. The complex originally included 9 locks and 8 chambers, allowing boats to climb or descend a 21-metre height difference over a length of 300 metres. Though no longer used for regular navigation, the locks remain fully operational and attract around 425,000 visitors each year, making them the third most-visited heritage site in the Languedoc-Roussillon region (after Carcassonne and the Pont du Gard).^Listed as a Monument Historique in 1996 and inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Canal du Midi in 1997, the site offers a dramatic glimpse into the vision and skill of early modern canal builders. A modern visitor centre, interpretive trails, and panoramic views make this a must-see for history and engineering enthusiasts alike. }} * {{see | name=Pont Vieux | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.339333 | long=3.208167 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3396781 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Spanning the Orb River, the Pont Vieux is a striking example of Romanesque architecture dating back to the 12th century. Classified as a Monument Historique since June 18, 1963, this historic stone bridge was for centuries the only crossing point over the Orb between Provence and Toulouse, making it a vital link for trade and travel across southern France. Originally constructed in the Romanesque style, the bridge has undergone numerous modifications over the centuries—particularly in the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries—to adapt to changing needs and to repair flood damage. Its enduring importance is reflected in royal documents: both Charles VII and Louis XI described it as “of great antiquity, magnificent, and of grand construction.” }} ==Do== Béziers is famous for its annual "Feria", a bullfighting festival ([https://www.feriabeziers.fr/]). This five-day party draws thousand of visitors to the town at the start of August. A beach bus runs to the sea at nearby Valras Plage every 20 mins. Journey time 30 mins. Sérignan Plage is harder to get to, but is often less crowded than Valras. It is popular with families and has several [[Naturism|nudist]] hotels. The [http://enserune.monuments-nationaux.fr/en/ Oppidum d'Ensèrune], a Romano-Gallic hill fort, is a short drive from Béziers outside the village of Nissan-lez-Enserune. Enserune features exposed archaeological structures, including hillside apartments, a work area, several cisterns, and a burial area. It is an active excavation site and sometimes visitors can see archaeologists working. The onsite museum is antiquated in presentation but has a comprehensive collection of grave goods. Also see l'Étang de Montady (the swamp of Montady), a wetland drained in the 13th century using a unique star-shaped drainage pattern, at the base of the hill. Béziers is in the middle of the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region. It is surrounded by vineyards, many of which will be happy to give you a tour and a tasting. One such is the Cave Coopérative Les Vignerons de Sérignan (Sérignan Winemakers' Cooperative), located in Sérignan, only a few miles away. The winery offers a cellar tour and factory shop. Decent reds and whites from several appellations can be had for €5-15. ==Buy== Les Halles, a covered market at the end of the Rue République, offers a wide variety of fresh local foods. (Closed Mondays) ==Eat== Béziers is full of places to eat. In the town centre, a good choice is southeast along the Allée Paul Riquet. There are a number of sidewalk bars and cafes that serve on the square, offering regional specialities and standard French fare. '''Le Cristal''' has particularly good moules Provençal. This is also a good place to buy food for self-catering or a picnic, with a '''Monoprix''' on the corner of the Rue Solferino and several small shops and kiosks selling seafood, sweets, and other edibles. A carousel at one end and occasional market vendors makes this square a fun place to people-watch while you walk off your meal. ==Drink== Cafe '''La Comédie''' (26 Allée Paul Riquet) is perhaps the oldest bar in town. Locals take the morning sun at the '''Café du Marché''', next to Les Halles. The Bar '''Chez L''' (Ave Clémenceau) faces the bus station and offers a reasonably priced lunch. The '''Korrigan Pub''' (7 Rue Paul Riquet) offers live music and a variety of beers. * {{listing | type=drink | name=Grand Café de la Comédie Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.grandcafedelacomedie.fr/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=26 Allées Paul Riquet | lat=43.343203 | long=3.216105 | directions= | phone=+33 4 67 28 32 16 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-16 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Maison d l'Orb | alt= | url=https://maisondelorb.eu | email= | address=20 Rue De L'abreuvoir | lat=43.3394 | long=3.2093 | directions= | phone=+33 467 486 766 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A designer guest house. }} * '''Appart'City Béziers''', a reasonably priced and clean self-catering accommodation near the city centre. * {{sleep | name=Hôtel des Poètes | alt= | url=http://www.hoteldespoetes.net/ | email= | address=80 Allées Paul Riquet | lat= | long= | directions=if you're relatively unencumbered, walk up the left side of the park opposite the station | phone=+33 467 763 866 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=€50-70 | lastedit=2015-05-30 | content=Simple but pleasant enough rooms with wifi in a restored old building facing the park. }} ==Go next== * [[Agde]] * [[Narbonne]] {{routebox | image2=Autoroute française 75.svg | imagesize2=50 | directionl2=SW | majorl2=merges with [[Image:Autoroute française 9.svg|40px]] | minorl2= | directionr2=NE | minorr2=[[Pézenas]] | majorr2=[[Clermont-Ferrand]] [[Image:Tabliczka E11.svg|30px]] | caption2=La Méridienne }} {{usablecity}} {{geo|43.3500|3.2167}} {{IsPartOf|Hérault}} 1hgq0zqbqxmwegxhswfptef3plxvakc 5090832 5090831 2025-07-10T13:42:23Z Ibaman 195012 /* See */ rv per [[WV:Bodies of water]]] 5090832 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bézier banner.jpg}} '''Béziers''' is a city in the [[Hérault]] department in [[Occitanie]], [[France]]. The city shows signs of Neolithic occupation, but the first recorded settlement was the Roman town of Baeterrae (founded around 35 BCE). Today, Béziers is a regional centre of winemaking, and a good place to base yourself when exploring the southern [[Languedoc]] region. ==Understand== Béziers is in an Occitan-speaking region, and street signs and other official markers are often printed in both French and Occitan. Occitan text is usually marked with a small red and gold cross, though it is often similar to standard French. While most customer service people will speak some English, this is not universal. Béziers was a centre of the [[Christianity#Cathars|Cathars]], and much of its population was massacred in 1209 during the Albigensian Crusade. ==Get in== Ryanair flies to Béziers-Cap d'Agde. You can reach Béziers within an hour from Montpellier, Carcassonne and Perpignan airports. * {{go | name=Béziers Cap d'Agde | alt={{IATA|BZR}} | url=http://www.beziers.aeroport.fr/en | email= | address= | lat=43.323333 | long=3.353333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Béziers Cap d'Agde Airport | image=Aéroport béziers img 2010.jpg | wikidata=Q619817 | content= }} A direct autoroute (Autoroute A75) links Béziers to Paris. Intercity and TGV trains run to Béziers from Paris Gare de Lyon. It is also possible to go to Barcelona by train. * {{listing | type=go | name=Béziers railway station | alt=Gare de Béziers | url=https://www.gares-sncf.com/fr/gare/frbzr/beziers | email= | address=14 Boulevard De Verdun | lat=43.336299 | long=3.218882 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Gare de Béziers | wikidata=Q2801649 | lastedit=2019-04-16 | content= }} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} ===By bus=== There is an excellent local bus service that puts all local towns and villages within easy reach. Try the free "Navette" shuttle bus that takes visitors from the railway and bus stations to the centre of town. ===On foot=== Everything in Béziers is within walking distance, but bear in mind that most of the city is built on a slope – and the airport is 15 km away. The walk from the train station to the town centre is quite steep. ==See== Béziers Old Town offers the walker a warren of largely early medieval streets, extending from the Cathedral to the town centre. The old streets just off the main avenue feature both traditional shops and designer fashion houses. The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, passes through Béziers. The canal was the creation of Paul Riquet. In the 17th century he completed the dream of joining the Mediterranean and the Atlantic ocean by a waterway. [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/770] Avenue Paul De Riquet is the place to be seen, sit and drink coffee and watch the world go by. Béziers has a number of small museums that focus on the town and its surroundings. The largest is the Musée de Biterrois, which includes historical and archaeological artefacts from the region. Espace Taurin is a specialist collection with memorabilia and artefacts related to the annual bullfighting festival. * {{see | name=Béziers Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.341389 | long=3.21 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1736174 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Saint Nazaire Cathedral was built in the 13th century and was a major staging point for the Crusades. Stunning views of the Orb valley and the surrounding area are available from the cathedral courtyard - especially at sunset. }} * {{see | name=9 Locks of Fonseranes | alt=Les 9 écluses de Fonseranes | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.330531 | long=3.199456 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q586271 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A remarkable feat of 17th-century engineering, the Fonseranes Locks are one of the highlights of Béziers and a masterpiece of the Canal du Midi. Conceived, funded, and built by Béziers native Pierre-Paul Riquet (1609–1681)—who was also the mastermind behind the entire 240 km of the Canal du Midi linking Toulouse to Sète—this water staircase is an impressive example of civil engineering and architectural ingenuity. The complex originally included 9 locks and 8 chambers, allowing boats to climb or descend a 21-metre height difference over a length of 300 metres. Though no longer used for regular navigation, the locks remain fully operational and attract around 425,000 visitors each year, making them the third most-visited heritage site in the Languedoc-Roussillon region (after Carcassonne and the Pont du Gard).^Listed as a Monument Historique in 1996 and inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Canal du Midi in 1997, the site offers a dramatic glimpse into the vision and skill of early modern canal builders. A modern visitor centre, interpretive trails, and panoramic views make this a must-see for history and engineering enthusiasts alike. }} * {{see | name=Pont Vieux | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.339333 | long=3.208167 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3396781 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Spanning the Orb River, the Pont Vieux is a striking example of Romanesque architecture dating back to the 12th century. Classified as a Monument Historique since June 18, 1963, this historic stone bridge was for centuries the only crossing point over the Orb between Provence and Toulouse, making it a vital link for trade and travel across southern France. Originally constructed in the Romanesque style, the bridge has undergone numerous modifications over the centuries—particularly in the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries—to adapt to changing needs and to repair flood damage. Its enduring importance is reflected in royal documents: both Charles VII and Louis XI described it as “of great antiquity, magnificent, and of grand construction.” }} ==Do== Béziers is famous for its annual "Feria", a bullfighting festival ([https://www.feriabeziers.fr/]). This five-day party draws thousand of visitors to the town at the start of August. A beach bus runs to the sea at nearby Valras Plage every 20 mins. Journey time 30 mins. Sérignan Plage is harder to get to, but is often less crowded than Valras. It is popular with families and has several [[Naturism|nudist]] hotels. The [http://enserune.monuments-nationaux.fr/en/ Oppidum d'Ensèrune], a Romano-Gallic hill fort, is a short drive from Béziers outside the village of Nissan-lez-Enserune. Enserune features exposed archaeological structures, including hillside apartments, a work area, several cisterns, and a burial area. It is an active excavation site and sometimes visitors can see archaeologists working. The onsite museum is antiquated in presentation but has a comprehensive collection of grave goods. Also see l'Étang de Montady (the swamp of Montady), a wetland drained in the 13th century using a unique star-shaped drainage pattern, at the base of the hill. Béziers is in the middle of the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region. It is surrounded by vineyards, many of which will be happy to give you a tour and a tasting. One such is the Cave Coopérative Les Vignerons de Sérignan (Sérignan Winemakers' Cooperative), located in Sérignan, only a few miles away. The winery offers a cellar tour and factory shop. Decent reds and whites from several appellations can be had for €5-15. ==Buy== Les Halles, a covered market at the end of the Rue République, offers a wide variety of fresh local foods. (Closed Mondays) ==Eat== Béziers is full of places to eat. In the town centre, a good choice is southeast along the Allée Paul Riquet. There are a number of sidewalk bars and cafes that serve on the square, offering regional specialities and standard French fare. '''Le Cristal''' has particularly good moules Provençal. This is also a good place to buy food for self-catering or a picnic, with a '''Monoprix''' on the corner of the Rue Solferino and several small shops and kiosks selling seafood, sweets, and other edibles. A carousel at one end and occasional market vendors makes this square a fun place to people-watch while you walk off your meal. ==Drink== Cafe '''La Comédie''' (26 Allée Paul Riquet) is perhaps the oldest bar in town. Locals take the morning sun at the '''Café du Marché''', next to Les Halles. The Bar '''Chez L''' (Ave Clémenceau) faces the bus station and offers a reasonably priced lunch. The '''Korrigan Pub''' (7 Rue Paul Riquet) offers live music and a variety of beers. * {{listing | type=drink | name=Grand Café de la Comédie Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.grandcafedelacomedie.fr/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=26 Allées Paul Riquet | lat=43.343203 | long=3.216105 | directions= | phone=+33 4 67 28 32 16 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-16 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Maison d l'Orb | alt= | url=https://maisondelorb.eu | email= | address=20 Rue De L'abreuvoir | lat=43.3394 | long=3.2093 | directions= | phone=+33 467 486 766 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A designer guest house. }} * '''Appart'City Béziers''', a reasonably priced and clean self-catering accommodation near the city centre. * {{sleep | name=Hôtel des Poètes | alt= | url=http://www.hoteldespoetes.net/ | email= | address=80 Allées Paul Riquet | lat= | long= | directions=if you're relatively unencumbered, walk up the left side of the park opposite the station | phone=+33 467 763 866 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=€50-70 | lastedit=2015-05-30 | content=Simple but pleasant enough rooms with wifi in a restored old building facing the park. }} ==Go next== * [[Agde]] * [[Narbonne]] {{routebox | image2=Autoroute française 75.svg | imagesize2=50 | directionl2=SW | majorl2=merges with [[Image:Autoroute française 9.svg|40px]] | minorl2= | directionr2=NE | minorr2=[[Pézenas]] | majorr2=[[Clermont-Ferrand]] [[Image:Tabliczka E11.svg|30px]] | caption2=La Méridienne }} {{usablecity}} {{geo|43.3500|3.2167}} {{IsPartOf|Hérault}} 7k20ayq6i4ggzxso14owvww1obkmwjw 5090835 5090832 2025-07-10T13:43:10Z Ibaman 195012 /* See */ more copyedit 5090835 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bézier banner.jpg}} '''Béziers''' is a city in the [[Hérault]] department in [[Occitanie]], [[France]]. The city shows signs of Neolithic occupation, but the first recorded settlement was the Roman town of Baeterrae (founded around 35 BCE). Today, Béziers is a regional centre of winemaking, and a good place to base yourself when exploring the southern [[Languedoc]] region. ==Understand== Béziers is in an Occitan-speaking region, and street signs and other official markers are often printed in both French and Occitan. Occitan text is usually marked with a small red and gold cross, though it is often similar to standard French. While most customer service people will speak some English, this is not universal. Béziers was a centre of the [[Christianity#Cathars|Cathars]], and much of its population was massacred in 1209 during the Albigensian Crusade. ==Get in== Ryanair flies to Béziers-Cap d'Agde. You can reach Béziers within an hour from Montpellier, Carcassonne and Perpignan airports. * {{go | name=Béziers Cap d'Agde | alt={{IATA|BZR}} | url=http://www.beziers.aeroport.fr/en | email= | address= | lat=43.323333 | long=3.353333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Béziers Cap d'Agde Airport | image=Aéroport béziers img 2010.jpg | wikidata=Q619817 | content= }} A direct autoroute (Autoroute A75) links Béziers to Paris. Intercity and TGV trains run to Béziers from Paris Gare de Lyon. It is also possible to go to Barcelona by train. * {{listing | type=go | name=Béziers railway station | alt=Gare de Béziers | url=https://www.gares-sncf.com/fr/gare/frbzr/beziers | email= | address=14 Boulevard De Verdun | lat=43.336299 | long=3.218882 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Gare de Béziers | wikidata=Q2801649 | lastedit=2019-04-16 | content= }} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} ===By bus=== There is an excellent local bus service that puts all local towns and villages within easy reach. Try the free "Navette" shuttle bus that takes visitors from the railway and bus stations to the centre of town. ===On foot=== Everything in Béziers is within walking distance, but bear in mind that most of the city is built on a slope – and the airport is 15 km away. The walk from the train station to the town centre is quite steep. ==See== Béziers Old Town offers the walker a warren of largely early medieval streets, extending from the Cathedral to the town centre. The old streets just off the main avenue feature both traditional shops and designer fashion houses. The [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/770 Canal du Midi], a {{unesco}}, passes through Béziers. The canal was the creation of Paul Riquet. In the 17th century he completed the dream of joining the Mediterranean and the Atlantic ocean by a waterway. Avenue Paul De Riquet is the place to be seen, sit and drink coffee and watch the world go by. Béziers has a number of small museums that focus on the town and its surroundings. The largest is the Musée de Biterrois, which includes historical and archaeological artefacts from the region. Espace Taurin is a specialist collection with memorabilia and artefacts related to the annual bullfighting festival. * {{see | name=Béziers Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.341389 | long=3.21 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1736174 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Saint Nazaire Cathedral was built in the 13th century and was a major staging point for the Crusades. Stunning views of the Orb valley and the surrounding area are available from the cathedral courtyard - especially at sunset. }} * {{see | name=9 Locks of Fonseranes | alt=Les 9 écluses de Fonseranes | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.330531 | long=3.199456 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q586271 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A remarkable feat of 17th-century engineering, the Fonseranes Locks are one of the highlights of Béziers and a masterpiece of the Canal du Midi. Conceived, funded, and built by Béziers native Pierre-Paul Riquet (1609–1681)—who was also the mastermind behind the entire 240 km of the Canal du Midi linking Toulouse to Sète—this water staircase is an impressive example of civil engineering and architectural ingenuity. The complex originally included 9 locks and 8 chambers, allowing boats to climb or descend a 21-metre height difference over a length of 300 metres. Though no longer used for regular navigation, the locks remain fully operational and attract around 425,000 visitors each year, making them the third most-visited heritage site in the Languedoc-Roussillon region (after Carcassonne and the Pont du Gard).^Listed as a Monument Historique in 1996 and inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Canal du Midi in 1997, the site offers a dramatic glimpse into the vision and skill of early modern canal builders. A modern visitor centre, interpretive trails, and panoramic views make this a must-see for history and engineering enthusiasts alike. }} * {{see | name=Pont Vieux | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.339333 | long=3.208167 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3396781 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Spanning the Orb River, the Pont Vieux is a striking example of Romanesque architecture dating back to the 12th century. Classified as a Monument Historique since June 18, 1963, this historic stone bridge was for centuries the only crossing point over the Orb between Provence and Toulouse, making it a vital link for trade and travel across southern France. Originally constructed in the Romanesque style, the bridge has undergone numerous modifications over the centuries—particularly in the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries—to adapt to changing needs and to repair flood damage. Its enduring importance is reflected in royal documents: both Charles VII and Louis XI described it as “of great antiquity, magnificent, and of grand construction.” }} ==Do== Béziers is famous for its annual "Feria", a bullfighting festival ([https://www.feriabeziers.fr/]). This five-day party draws thousand of visitors to the town at the start of August. A beach bus runs to the sea at nearby Valras Plage every 20 mins. Journey time 30 mins. Sérignan Plage is harder to get to, but is often less crowded than Valras. It is popular with families and has several [[Naturism|nudist]] hotels. The [http://enserune.monuments-nationaux.fr/en/ Oppidum d'Ensèrune], a Romano-Gallic hill fort, is a short drive from Béziers outside the village of Nissan-lez-Enserune. Enserune features exposed archaeological structures, including hillside apartments, a work area, several cisterns, and a burial area. It is an active excavation site and sometimes visitors can see archaeologists working. The onsite museum is antiquated in presentation but has a comprehensive collection of grave goods. Also see l'Étang de Montady (the swamp of Montady), a wetland drained in the 13th century using a unique star-shaped drainage pattern, at the base of the hill. Béziers is in the middle of the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region. It is surrounded by vineyards, many of which will be happy to give you a tour and a tasting. One such is the Cave Coopérative Les Vignerons de Sérignan (Sérignan Winemakers' Cooperative), located in Sérignan, only a few miles away. The winery offers a cellar tour and factory shop. Decent reds and whites from several appellations can be had for €5-15. ==Buy== Les Halles, a covered market at the end of the Rue République, offers a wide variety of fresh local foods. (Closed Mondays) ==Eat== Béziers is full of places to eat. In the town centre, a good choice is southeast along the Allée Paul Riquet. There are a number of sidewalk bars and cafes that serve on the square, offering regional specialities and standard French fare. '''Le Cristal''' has particularly good moules Provençal. This is also a good place to buy food for self-catering or a picnic, with a '''Monoprix''' on the corner of the Rue Solferino and several small shops and kiosks selling seafood, sweets, and other edibles. A carousel at one end and occasional market vendors makes this square a fun place to people-watch while you walk off your meal. ==Drink== Cafe '''La Comédie''' (26 Allée Paul Riquet) is perhaps the oldest bar in town. Locals take the morning sun at the '''Café du Marché''', next to Les Halles. The Bar '''Chez L''' (Ave Clémenceau) faces the bus station and offers a reasonably priced lunch. The '''Korrigan Pub''' (7 Rue Paul Riquet) offers live music and a variety of beers. * {{listing | type=drink | name=Grand Café de la Comédie Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.grandcafedelacomedie.fr/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=26 Allées Paul Riquet | lat=43.343203 | long=3.216105 | directions= | phone=+33 4 67 28 32 16 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-16 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Maison d l'Orb | alt= | url=https://maisondelorb.eu | email= | address=20 Rue De L'abreuvoir | lat=43.3394 | long=3.2093 | directions= | phone=+33 467 486 766 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A designer guest house. }} * '''Appart'City Béziers''', a reasonably priced and clean self-catering accommodation near the city centre. * {{sleep | name=Hôtel des Poètes | alt= | url=http://www.hoteldespoetes.net/ | email= | address=80 Allées Paul Riquet | lat= | long= | directions=if you're relatively unencumbered, walk up the left side of the park opposite the station | phone=+33 467 763 866 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=€50-70 | lastedit=2015-05-30 | content=Simple but pleasant enough rooms with wifi in a restored old building facing the park. }} ==Go next== * [[Agde]] * [[Narbonne]] {{routebox | image2=Autoroute française 75.svg | imagesize2=50 | directionl2=SW | majorl2=merges with [[Image:Autoroute française 9.svg|40px]] | minorl2= | directionr2=NE | minorr2=[[Pézenas]] | majorr2=[[Clermont-Ferrand]] [[Image:Tabliczka E11.svg|30px]] | caption2=La Méridienne }} {{usablecity}} {{geo|43.3500|3.2167}} {{IsPartOf|Hérault}} 3dmdeozqtwkxkna243jwp0k60qmvhje 0 4004 5090763 5090440 2025-07-10T12:44:11Z 2.68.182.57 /* Get around */ added on boat traffic 5090763 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By plane * [[Ronneby]] airport, flights from Stockholm * Copenhagen airport, plus train ;By train * [http://www.oresundstag.se Öresundståg] - Trains from Copenhagen, stopping at Malmö, Lund, Kristianstad, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. * [http://www.SJ.se SJ] - Trains from Gothenburg. They stop in Alvesta, where there is connection from Stockholm. Train change in Emmaboda. [http://resrobot.se Resrobot] is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * ''[https://www.dfdsseaways.eu/ferry-routes/other-routes/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]'' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]] in [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * ''[http://www.stenalinetravel.com/ferry-to-scandinavia-and-europe Stena Line]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]] in [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the four coastal cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;by boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | url= | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Svangsta | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 725432092 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= |lastedit=2022-07-10| content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} 9uesufejlddd9fvrfc2x6myo7bo6jfh 5090764 5090763 2025-07-10T12:44:58Z 2.68.182.57 /* Get around */ corr 5090764 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By plane * [[Ronneby]] airport, flights from Stockholm * Copenhagen airport, plus train ;By train * [http://www.oresundstag.se Öresundståg] - Trains from Copenhagen, stopping at Malmö, Lund, Kristianstad, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. * [http://www.SJ.se SJ] - Trains from Gothenburg. They stop in Alvesta, where there is connection from Stockholm. Train change in Emmaboda. [http://resrobot.se Resrobot] is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * ''[https://www.dfdsseaways.eu/ferry-routes/other-routes/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]'' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]] in [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * ''[http://www.stenalinetravel.com/ferry-to-scandinavia-and-europe Stena Line]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]] in [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the four coastal cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | url= | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Svangsta | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 725432092 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= |lastedit=2022-07-10| content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} n5oywpcxf3r6z2k9ma78kagzlpop4t6 5090780 5090764 2025-07-10T13:01:38Z 2.68.182.57 /* Eat */ added Björketorps gård 5090780 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By plane * [[Ronneby]] airport, flights from Stockholm * Copenhagen airport, plus train ;By train * [http://www.oresundstag.se Öresundståg] - Trains from Copenhagen, stopping at Malmö, Lund, Kristianstad, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. * [http://www.SJ.se SJ] - Trains from Gothenburg. They stop in Alvesta, where there is connection from Stockholm. Train change in Emmaboda. [http://resrobot.se Resrobot] is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * ''[https://www.dfdsseaways.eu/ferry-routes/other-routes/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]'' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]] in [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * ''[http://www.stenalinetravel.com/ferry-to-scandinavia-and-europe Stena Line]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]] in [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the four coastal cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863346270086 | long=15.375644941795374 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= |lastedit=2025-07-10| content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different sorts of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few sorts of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | url= | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Svangsta | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 725432092 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= |lastedit=2022-07-10| content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} ebvmljztx0zo7fwfb1b0wslnujta11d 5090785 5090780 2025-07-10T13:16:13Z 2.68.182.57 /* Eat */ Updated listing for Björketorps gård - corr 5090785 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By plane * [[Ronneby]] airport, flights from Stockholm * Copenhagen airport, plus train ;By train * [http://www.oresundstag.se Öresundståg] - Trains from Copenhagen, stopping at Malmö, Lund, Kristianstad, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. * [http://www.SJ.se SJ] - Trains from Gothenburg. They stop in Alvesta, where there is connection from Stockholm. Train change in Emmaboda. [http://resrobot.se Resrobot] is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * ''[https://www.dfdsseaways.eu/ferry-routes/other-routes/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]'' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]] in [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * ''[http://www.stenalinetravel.com/ferry-to-scandinavia-and-europe Stena Line]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]] in [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the four coastal cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | url= | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Svangsta | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 725432092 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= |lastedit=2022-07-10| content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} 2yn30trknmkhzr6gt9g6y21ok0y9olv 5091002 5090785 2025-07-10T18:25:34Z 37.250.76.55 added new section "Sleep" 5091002 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By plane * [[Ronneby]] airport, flights from Stockholm * Copenhagen airport, plus train ;By train * [http://www.oresundstag.se Öresundståg] - Trains from Copenhagen, stopping at Malmö, Lund, Kristianstad, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. * [http://www.SJ.se SJ] - Trains from Gothenburg. They stop in Alvesta, where there is connection from Stockholm. Train change in Emmaboda. [http://resrobot.se Resrobot] is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * ''[https://www.dfdsseaways.eu/ferry-routes/other-routes/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]'' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]] in [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * ''[http://www.stenalinetravel.com/ferry-to-scandinavia-and-europe Stena Line]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]] in [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the four coastal cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | url= | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Svangsta | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 725432092 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= |lastedit=2022-07-10| content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.161501 | long=15.583496 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | fax= | directions=Coming from road E22, take exit 55 towards Bräkne-Hoby and follow the signs to Tjärö and Järnavik. The private ferry for the island has the address: Järnaviksvägen 80, Bräkne-Hoby. There is also public boat traffic from Karlshamn, see the section "Get around". | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} c94gxo928hu6dcatfb89npbf1ct7ar8 5091004 5091002 2025-07-10T18:27:55Z 37.250.76.55 /* Sleep */ Updated listing for Tjärö - corr 5091004 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By plane * [[Ronneby]] airport, flights from Stockholm * Copenhagen airport, plus train ;By train * [http://www.oresundstag.se Öresundståg] - Trains from Copenhagen, stopping at Malmö, Lund, Kristianstad, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. * [http://www.SJ.se SJ] - Trains from Gothenburg. They stop in Alvesta, where there is connection from Stockholm. Train change in Emmaboda. [http://resrobot.se Resrobot] is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * ''[https://www.dfdsseaways.eu/ferry-routes/other-routes/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]'' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]] in [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * ''[http://www.stenalinetravel.com/ferry-to-scandinavia-and-europe Stena Line]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]] in [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the four coastal cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | url= | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Svangsta | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 725432092 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= |lastedit=2022-07-10| content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions=Coming from road E22, take exit 55 towards Bräkne-Hoby and follow the signs to Tjärö and Järnavik. The private ferry for the island has the address: Järnaviksvägen 80, Bräkne-Hoby. There is also public boat traffic from Karlshamn, see the section "Get around". | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} s8y1xkg65mdpeoysktys97ipa20x7ye 5091008 5091004 2025-07-10T18:42:06Z 37.250.76.55 /* Eat */ added Restaurang Skutan 5091008 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By plane * [[Ronneby]] airport, flights from Stockholm * Copenhagen airport, plus train ;By train * [http://www.oresundstag.se Öresundståg] - Trains from Copenhagen, stopping at Malmö, Lund, Kristianstad, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. * [http://www.SJ.se SJ] - Trains from Gothenburg. They stop in Alvesta, where there is connection from Stockholm. Train change in Emmaboda. [http://resrobot.se Resrobot] is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * ''[https://www.dfdsseaways.eu/ferry-routes/other-routes/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]'' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]] in [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * ''[http://www.stenalinetravel.com/ferry-to-scandinavia-and-europe Stena Line]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]] in [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the four coastal cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.00514016772446 | long=14.736970038132789 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | url= | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Svangsta | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 725432092 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= |lastedit=2022-07-10| content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions=Coming from road E22, take exit 55 towards Bräkne-Hoby and follow the signs to Tjärö and Järnavik. The private ferry for the island has the address: Järnaviksvägen 80, Bräkne-Hoby. There is also public boat traffic from Karlshamn, see the section "Get around". | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} gs5e2kgnr85rkr6nd8sxga0ed866gpl 5091009 5091008 2025-07-10T18:43:21Z 37.250.76.55 /* Eat */ Updated listing for Restaurang Skutan - corr 5091009 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By plane * [[Ronneby]] airport, flights from Stockholm * Copenhagen airport, plus train ;By train * [http://www.oresundstag.se Öresundståg] - Trains from Copenhagen, stopping at Malmö, Lund, Kristianstad, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. * [http://www.SJ.se SJ] - Trains from Gothenburg. They stop in Alvesta, where there is connection from Stockholm. Train change in Emmaboda. [http://resrobot.se Resrobot] is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * ''[https://www.dfdsseaways.eu/ferry-routes/other-routes/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]'' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]] in [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * ''[http://www.stenalinetravel.com/ferry-to-scandinavia-and-europe Stena Line]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]] in [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the four coastal cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | url= | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Svangsta | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 725432092 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= |lastedit=2022-07-10| content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions=Coming from road E22, take exit 55 towards Bräkne-Hoby and follow the signs to Tjärö and Järnavik. The private ferry for the island has the address: Järnaviksvägen 80, Bräkne-Hoby. There is also public boat traffic from Karlshamn, see the section "Get around". | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} 14ttyfjn7omsz7v0il3tv13gxpl4657 5091013 5091009 2025-07-10T18:46:40Z 37.250.76.55 /* Eat */ Updated listing for Röshults Vedugnsbageri 5091013 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By plane * [[Ronneby]] airport, flights from Stockholm * Copenhagen airport, plus train ;By train * [http://www.oresundstag.se Öresundståg] - Trains from Copenhagen, stopping at Malmö, Lund, Kristianstad, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. * [http://www.SJ.se SJ] - Trains from Gothenburg. They stop in Alvesta, where there is connection from Stockholm. Train change in Emmaboda. [http://resrobot.se Resrobot] is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * ''[https://www.dfdsseaways.eu/ferry-routes/other-routes/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]'' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]] in [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * ''[http://www.stenalinetravel.com/ferry-to-scandinavia-and-europe Stena Line]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]] in [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the four coastal cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions=Coming from road E22, take exit 55 towards Bräkne-Hoby and follow the signs to Tjärö and Järnavik. The private ferry for the island has the address: Järnaviksvägen 80, Bräkne-Hoby. There is also public boat traffic from Karlshamn, see the section "Get around". | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} 9c165je3zbhydq7t1zdlim262b7ccjk 5091016 5091013 2025-07-10T18:51:06Z Ibaman 195012 [[WV:Listings]], [[WV:Tone#Be concise]]: too long and convoluted for this section 5091016 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By plane * [[Ronneby]] airport, flights from Stockholm * Copenhagen airport, plus train ;By train * [http://www.oresundstag.se Öresundståg] - Trains from Copenhagen, stopping at Malmö, Lund, Kristianstad, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. * [http://www.SJ.se SJ] - Trains from Gothenburg. They stop in Alvesta, where there is connection from Stockholm. Train change in Emmaboda. [http://resrobot.se Resrobot] is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * ''[https://www.dfdsseaways.eu/ferry-routes/other-routes/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]'' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]] in [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * ''[http://www.stenalinetravel.com/ferry-to-scandinavia-and-europe Stena Line]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]] in [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the four coastal cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} ghaodowsp8rlwpy6jmvnhzquwjka2pm 5091022 5091016 2025-07-10T19:20:18Z 37.250.76.55 /* Get in */ additions, corrections and polish 5091022 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the four coastal cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} k1w7bszwchgu8tgxvpf7nbgx8d5z35t 5091026 5091022 2025-07-10T19:31:43Z 37.250.76.55 /* Get around */ corr 5091026 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} bkh5f0lne0lkcijiq7jgf52hdza9kzd 5091039 5091026 2025-07-10T19:57:45Z 37.250.76.55 /* Get in */ added by bus 5091039 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By bus *'''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/ Skånetrafiken]''', Route 561 from [[Bromölla]], [[Scania]] either southbound to [[Sölvesborg]] or northbound to [[Olofström]]. Route 562 from [[Älmhult]], Småland to Olofström. *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]''', Route 682 from Ryd, Småland via Kyrkhult ending in Olofström. ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 454774000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} htqegrw722ys8mcy86znwnc3geu73j7 5091071 5091039 2025-07-10T21:37:27Z 37.250.76.55 /* See */ added the Aby museum 5091071 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By bus *'''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/ Skånetrafiken]''', Route 561 from [[Bromölla]], [[Scania]] either southbound to [[Sölvesborg]] or northbound to [[Olofström]]. Route 562 from [[Älmhult]], Småland to Olofström. *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]''', Route 682 from Ryd, Småland via Kyrkhult ending in Olofström. ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Abu museum | alt= | url= | email=veikkohemming@hotmail.com | address=Holländarevägen 86, Svängsta | lat=56.26589237959926 | long=14.768834931008527 | directions= | phone=+46 702 236 142 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups during the summer season. Mon-Fri: 13:00-16:00, Sat: 12:30-15:00 | price= | content=Private museum with artifacts of the historical and reknown Halda factory that produced pocket watches, typewriters and taxicab meters. The company later produced sport fishing rods and wheels, which today has the company name Abu Garcia. }} *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat=56.370176902027794 | long=14.680917484081194 | directions= | phone=+46 454 774 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} qarrzr767ryvi50d4ytk82cvwgokrov 5091072 5091071 2025-07-10T21:55:55Z 37.250.76.55 /* Eat */ added Kafé Måsen 5091072 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By bus *'''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/ Skånetrafiken]''', Route 561 from [[Bromölla]], [[Scania]] either southbound to [[Sölvesborg]] or northbound to [[Olofström]]. Route 562 from [[Älmhult]], Småland to Olofström. *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]''', Route 682 from Ryd, Småland via Kyrkhult ending in Olofström. ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Abu museum | alt= | url= | email=veikkohemming@hotmail.com | address=Holländarevägen 86, Svängsta | lat=56.26589237959926 | long=14.768834931008527 | directions= | phone=+46 702 236 142 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups during the summer season. Mon-Fri: 13:00-16:00, Sat: 12:30-15:00 | price= | content=Private museum with artifacts of the historical and reknown Halda factory that produced pocket watches, typewriters and taxicab meters. The company later produced sport fishing rods and wheels, which today has the company name Abu Garcia. }} *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat=56.370176902027794 | long=14.680917484081194 | directions= | phone=+46 454 774 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Kafé Måsen | alt= | url=https://www.kafemasen.se/ | email= | address=Skeppnabbavägen 39, Torhamn | lat=56.09296101758778 | long=15.824166157693076 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open in the summer season (weeks 26-32): Sun-Tue: 11:00-19:00, Wed-Sat: 11:00-22:00. Otherwise open week-ends only from May to mid-August | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Kafé Måsen (The Seagull Café) is an eatery with live music at no extra charge during the summer season. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} 2et2smjrtv6pdn7u86n9e9ugqkp3u34 5091075 5091072 2025-07-10T22:15:51Z 37.250.76.55 /* Do */ added Räntemåla Gård 5091075 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By bus *'''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/ Skånetrafiken]''', Route 561 from [[Bromölla]], [[Scania]] either southbound to [[Sölvesborg]] or northbound to [[Olofström]]. Route 562 from [[Älmhult]], Småland to Olofström. *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]''', Route 682 from Ryd, Småland via Kyrkhult ending in Olofström. ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Abu museum | alt= | url= | email=veikkohemming@hotmail.com | address=Holländarevägen 86, Svängsta | lat=56.26589237959926 | long=14.768834931008527 | directions= | phone=+46 702 236 142 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups during the summer season. Mon-Fri: 13:00-16:00, Sat: 12:30-15:00 | price= | content=Private museum with artifacts of the historical and reknown Halda factory that produced pocket watches, typewriters and taxicab meters. The company later produced sport fishing rods and wheels, which today has the company name Abu Garcia. }} *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat=56.370176902027794 | long=14.680917484081194 | directions= | phone=+46 454 774 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===For Kids=== *{{do | name=Räntemåla Gård | alt= | url=https://www.rantemala.se/en/ | email= | address=Räntemålavägen 18, Eringsboda | lat=56.45313190676465 | long=15.235367634964406 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 1 July to 31 August. All days: 16:30-18:30 | price=Adult: {{SEK|200}}, Child (3-15 years): {{SEK|120}}, Child (less than 3 years): free | content=Didn't see a moose on your holiday? Well, here you've got the chance. }} ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Kafé Måsen | alt= | url=https://www.kafemasen.se/ | email= | address=Skeppnabbavägen 39, Torhamn | lat=56.09296101758778 | long=15.824166157693076 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open in the summer season (weeks 26-32): Sun-Tue: 11:00-19:00, Wed-Sat: 11:00-22:00. Otherwise open week-ends only from May to mid-August | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Kafé Måsen (The Seagull Café) is an eatery with live music at no extra charge during the summer season. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} 8psjelu0d2ae3x4e1addeafyj5bkg5n 5091076 5091075 2025-07-10T22:18:01Z 37.250.76.55 /* For Kids */ Updated listing for Räntemåla Gård - add 5091076 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By bus *'''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/ Skånetrafiken]''', Route 561 from [[Bromölla]], [[Scania]] either southbound to [[Sölvesborg]] or northbound to [[Olofström]]. Route 562 from [[Älmhult]], Småland to Olofström. *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]''', Route 682 from Ryd, Småland via Kyrkhult ending in Olofström. ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Abu museum | alt= | url= | email=veikkohemming@hotmail.com | address=Holländarevägen 86, Svängsta | lat=56.26589237959926 | long=14.768834931008527 | directions= | phone=+46 702 236 142 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups during the summer season. Mon-Fri: 13:00-16:00, Sat: 12:30-15:00 | price= | content=Private museum with artifacts of the historical and reknown Halda factory that produced pocket watches, typewriters and taxicab meters. The company later produced sport fishing rods and wheels, which today has the company name Abu Garcia. }} *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat=56.370176902027794 | long=14.680917484081194 | directions= | phone=+46 454 774 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===For Kids=== *{{do | name=Räntemåla Gård | alt= | url=https://www.rantemala.se/en/ | email= | address=Räntemålavägen 18, Eringsboda | lat=56.453132 | long=15.235368 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open from 1 July to 31 August. All days: 16:30-18:30 | price=Adult: {{SEK|200}}, Child (3-15 years): {{SEK|120}}, Child (less than 3 years): free | content=Didn't see a moose on your holiday? Well, here you've got the chance. Quite off the beaten track, so you need your own transport. }} ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Kafé Måsen | alt= | url=https://www.kafemasen.se/ | email= | address=Skeppnabbavägen 39, Torhamn | lat=56.09296101758778 | long=15.824166157693076 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open in the summer season (weeks 26-32): Sun-Tue: 11:00-19:00, Wed-Sat: 11:00-22:00. Otherwise open week-ends only from May to mid-August | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Kafé Måsen (The Seagull Café) is an eatery with live music at no extra charge during the summer season. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} 20cx2ubun11mpt30d9fdqevw82zmyuw 5091082 5091076 2025-07-10T22:33:59Z 37.250.76.55 /* See */ added Stenmuséet i Vilshult 5091082 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By bus *'''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/ Skånetrafiken]''', Route 561 from [[Bromölla]], [[Scania]] either southbound to [[Sölvesborg]] or northbound to [[Olofström]]. Route 562 from [[Älmhult]], Småland to Olofström. *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]''', Route 682 from Ryd, Småland via Kyrkhult ending in Olofström. ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == *{{see | name=Abu museum | alt= | url= | email=veikkohemming@hotmail.com | address=Holländarevägen 86, Svängsta | lat=56.26589237959926 | long=14.768834931008527 | directions= | phone=+46 702 236 142 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups during the summer season. Mon-Fri: 13:00-16:00, Sat: 12:30-15:00 | price= | content=Private museum with artifacts of the historical and reknown Halda factory that produced pocket watches, typewriters and taxicab meters. The company later produced sport fishing rods and wheels, which today has the company name Abu Garcia. }} *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat=56.370176902027794 | long=14.680917484081194 | directions= | phone=+46 454 774 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} *{{see | name=Stenmuséet i Vilshult | alt= | url=https://www.hembygd.se/kyrkhult/stenmuseet | email= | address=Södra Fröatorpsvägen 22, Vilshult | lat=56.353330870680146 | long=14.476420557220443 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=5 July to 3 August 2025, Sat-Sun: 13:00-16:00 | content=Private museum owned by the local Kyrkhult Heritage Society. The museum has artifacts illustrating the historical quarrying of diabase rocks in Vilshult. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===For Kids=== *{{do | name=Räntemåla Gård | alt= | url=https://www.rantemala.se/en/ | email= | address=Räntemålavägen 18, Eringsboda | lat=56.453132 | long=15.235368 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open from 1 July to 31 August. All days: 16:30-18:30 | price=Adult: {{SEK|200}}, Child (3-15 years): {{SEK|120}}, Child (less than 3 years): free | content=Didn't see a moose on your holiday? Well, here you've got the chance. Quite off the beaten track, so you need your own transport. }} ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Kafé Måsen | alt= | url=https://www.kafemasen.se/ | email= | address=Skeppnabbavägen 39, Torhamn | lat=56.09296101758778 | long=15.824166157693076 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open in the summer season (weeks 26-32): Sun-Tue: 11:00-19:00, Wed-Sat: 11:00-22:00. Otherwise open week-ends only from May to mid-August | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Kafé Måsen (The Seagull Café) is an eatery with live music at no extra charge during the summer season. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} d1k31bobggouqf5vuq41ealce7qcoof 5091090 5091082 2025-07-10T23:30:18Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* See */This is a region article with city articles linked from it. Listings should be in city articles and "See" should be a summary with links to city articles. 5091090 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By bus *'''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/ Skånetrafiken]''', Route 561 from [[Bromölla]], [[Scania]] either southbound to [[Sölvesborg]] or northbound to [[Olofström]]. Route 562 from [[Älmhult]], Småland to Olofström. *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]''', Route 682 from Ryd, Småland via Kyrkhult ending in Olofström. ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == {{movetocity}} *{{see | name=Abu museum | alt= | url= | email=veikkohemming@hotmail.com | address=Holländarevägen 86, Svängsta | lat=56.26589237959926 | long=14.768834931008527 | directions= | phone=+46 702 236 142 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups during the summer season. Mon-Fri: 13:00-16:00, Sat: 12:30-15:00 | price= | content=Private museum with artifacts of the historical and reknown Halda factory that produced pocket watches, typewriters and taxicab meters. The company later produced sport fishing rods and wheels, which today has the company name Abu Garcia. }} *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat=56.370176902027794 | long=14.680917484081194 | directions= | phone=+46 454 774 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} *{{see | name=Stenmuséet i Vilshult | alt= | url=https://www.hembygd.se/kyrkhult/stenmuseet | email= | address=Södra Fröatorpsvägen 22, Vilshult | lat=56.353330870680146 | long=14.476420557220443 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=5 July to 3 August 2025, Sat-Sun: 13:00-16:00 | content=Private museum owned by the local Kyrkhult Heritage Society. The museum has artifacts illustrating the historical quarrying of diabase rocks in Vilshult. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===For Kids=== *{{do | name=Räntemåla Gård | alt= | url=https://www.rantemala.se/en/ | email= | address=Räntemålavägen 18, Eringsboda | lat=56.453132 | long=15.235368 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open from 1 July to 31 August. All days: 16:30-18:30 | price=Adult: {{SEK|200}}, Child (3-15 years): {{SEK|120}}, Child (less than 3 years): free | content=Didn't see a moose on your holiday? Well, here you've got the chance. Quite off the beaten track, so you need your own transport. }} ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Kafé Måsen | alt= | url=https://www.kafemasen.se/ | email= | address=Skeppnabbavägen 39, Torhamn | lat=56.09296101758778 | long=15.824166157693076 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open in the summer season (weeks 26-32): Sun-Tue: 11:00-19:00, Wed-Sat: 11:00-22:00. Otherwise open week-ends only from May to mid-August | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Kafé Måsen (The Seagull Café) is an eatery with live music at no extra charge during the summer season. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} 8ei0nyb8pkgy98r0bxvg8zrdkj0pri3 5091375 5091090 2025-07-11T11:32:13Z 37.250.76.55 /* Understand */ keep this in mind when talking about what belongs where 5091375 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited, which means there is hardly any public transport besides school buses. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By bus *'''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/ Skånetrafiken]''', Route 561 from [[Bromölla]], [[Scania]] either southbound to [[Sölvesborg]] or northbound to [[Olofström]]. Route 562 from [[Älmhult]], Småland to Olofström. *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]''', Route 682 from Ryd, Småland via Kyrkhult ending in Olofström. ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == {{movetocity}} *{{see | name=Abu museum | alt= | url= | email=veikkohemming@hotmail.com | address=Holländarevägen 86, Svängsta | lat=56.26589237959926 | long=14.768834931008527 | directions= | phone=+46 702 236 142 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups during the summer season. Mon-Fri: 13:00-16:00, Sat: 12:30-15:00 | price= | content=Private museum with artifacts of the historical and reknown Halda factory that produced pocket watches, typewriters and taxicab meters. The company later produced sport fishing rods and wheels, which today has the company name Abu Garcia. }} *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat=56.370176902027794 | long=14.680917484081194 | directions= | phone=+46 454 774 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} *{{see | name=Stenmuséet i Vilshult | alt= | url=https://www.hembygd.se/kyrkhult/stenmuseet | email= | address=Södra Fröatorpsvägen 22, Vilshult | lat=56.353330870680146 | long=14.476420557220443 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=5 July to 3 August 2025, Sat-Sun: 13:00-16:00 | content=Private museum owned by the local Kyrkhult Heritage Society. The museum has artifacts illustrating the historical quarrying of diabase rocks in Vilshult. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===For Kids=== *{{do | name=Räntemåla Gård | alt= | url=https://www.rantemala.se/en/ | email= | address=Räntemålavägen 18, Eringsboda | lat=56.453132 | long=15.235368 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open from 1 July to 31 August. All days: 16:30-18:30 | price=Adult: {{SEK|200}}, Child (3-15 years): {{SEK|120}}, Child (less than 3 years): free | content=Didn't see a moose on your holiday? Well, here you've got the chance. Quite off the beaten track, so you need your own transport. }} ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Kafé Måsen | alt= | url=https://www.kafemasen.se/ | email= | address=Skeppnabbavägen 39, Torhamn | lat=56.09296101758778 | long=15.824166157693076 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open in the summer season (weeks 26-32): Sun-Tue: 11:00-19:00, Wed-Sat: 11:00-22:00. Otherwise open week-ends only from May to mid-August | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Kafé Måsen (The Seagull Café) is an eatery with live music at no extra charge during the summer season. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=Mon-Thu: 12:00-20:30, Fri-Sun: 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} kp260brwo9hzub1bf4zh1s0z1en0klp 5091380 5091375 2025-07-11T11:38:05Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Eat */ move to city articles 5091380 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited, which means there is hardly any public transport besides school buses. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By bus *'''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/ Skånetrafiken]''', Route 561 from [[Bromölla]], [[Scania]] either southbound to [[Sölvesborg]] or northbound to [[Olofström]]. Route 562 from [[Älmhult]], Småland to Olofström. *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]''', Route 682 from Ryd, Småland via Kyrkhult ending in Olofström. ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == {{movetocity}} *{{see | name=Abu museum | alt= | url= | email=veikkohemming@hotmail.com | address=Holländarevägen 86, Svängsta | lat=56.26589237959926 | long=14.768834931008527 | directions= | phone=+46 702 236 142 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups during the summer season. Mon-Fri: 13:00-16:00, Sat: 12:30-15:00 | price= | content=Private museum with artifacts of the historical and reknown Halda factory that produced pocket watches, typewriters and taxicab meters. The company later produced sport fishing rods and wheels, which today has the company name Abu Garcia. }} *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat=56.370176902027794 | long=14.680917484081194 | directions= | phone=+46 454 774 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} *{{see | name=Stenmuséet i Vilshult | alt= | url=https://www.hembygd.se/kyrkhult/stenmuseet | email= | address=Södra Fröatorpsvägen 22, Vilshult | lat=56.353330870680146 | long=14.476420557220443 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=5 July to 3 August 2025, Sat-Sun: 13:00-16:00 | content=Private museum owned by the local Kyrkhult Heritage Society. The museum has artifacts illustrating the historical quarrying of diabase rocks in Vilshult. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===For Kids=== *{{do | name=Räntemåla Gård | alt= | url=https://www.rantemala.se/en/ | email= | address=Räntemålavägen 18, Eringsboda | lat=56.453132 | long=15.235368 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open from 1 July to 31 August. All days: 16:30-18:30 | price=Adult: {{SEK|200}}, Child (3-15 years): {{SEK|120}}, Child (less than 3 years): free | content=Didn't see a moose on your holiday? Well, here you've got the chance. Quite off the beaten track, so you need your own transport. }} ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} 8twe5jmraeueft5o4z5z6z9gcwe4sr6 5091381 5091380 2025-07-11T11:39:09Z 37.250.76.55 /* See */ add 5091381 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited, which means there is hardly any public transport besides school buses. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By bus *'''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/ Skånetrafiken]''', Route 561 from [[Bromölla]], [[Scania]] either southbound to [[Sölvesborg]] or northbound to [[Olofström]]. Route 562 from [[Älmhult]], Småland to Olofström. *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]''', Route 682 from Ryd, Småland via Kyrkhult ending in Olofström. ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == {{movetocity}} Most sights are in the cities, but some sights are in the rural areas, even though those sights in many cases needs your own transport to get there, especially in the week-ends when there is no public transport in the rural hinterland. *{{see | name=Abu museum | alt= | url= | email=veikkohemming@hotmail.com | address=Holländarevägen 86, Svängsta | lat=56.26589237959926 | long=14.768834931008527 | directions= | phone=+46 702 236 142 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups during the summer season. Mon-Fri: 13:00-16:00, Sat: 12:30-15:00 | price= | content=Private museum with artifacts of the historical and reknown Halda factory that produced pocket watches, typewriters and taxicab meters. The company later produced sport fishing rods and wheels, which today has the company name Abu Garcia. }} *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat=56.370176902027794 | long=14.680917484081194 | directions= | phone=+46 454 774 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} *{{see | name=Stenmuséet i Vilshult | alt= | url=https://www.hembygd.se/kyrkhult/stenmuseet | email= | address=Södra Fröatorpsvägen 22, Vilshult | lat=56.353330870680146 | long=14.476420557220443 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=5 July to 3 August 2025, Sat-Sun: 13:00-16:00 | content=Private museum owned by the local Kyrkhult Heritage Society. The museum has artifacts illustrating the historical quarrying of diabase rocks in Vilshult. }} == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===For Kids=== *{{do | name=Räntemåla Gård | alt= | url=https://www.rantemala.se/en/ | email= | address=Räntemålavägen 18, Eringsboda | lat=56.453132 | long=15.235368 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open from 1 July to 31 August. All days: 16:30-18:30 | price=Adult: {{SEK|200}}, Child (3-15 years): {{SEK|120}}, Child (less than 3 years): free | content=Didn't see a moose on your holiday? Well, here you've got the chance. Quite off the beaten track, so you need your own transport. }} ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} hxd8oe5etiwrb0pr6w2e0q8i41s2ib1 5091383 5091381 2025-07-11T11:40:04Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* See */ move to city articles 5091383 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited, which means there is hardly any public transport besides school buses. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By bus *'''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/ Skånetrafiken]''', Route 561 from [[Bromölla]], [[Scania]] either southbound to [[Sölvesborg]] or northbound to [[Olofström]]. Route 562 from [[Älmhult]], Småland to Olofström. *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]''', Route 682 from Ryd, Småland via Kyrkhult ending in Olofström. ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===For Kids=== *{{do | name=Räntemåla Gård | alt= | url=https://www.rantemala.se/en/ | email= | address=Räntemålavägen 18, Eringsboda | lat=56.453132 | long=15.235368 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open from 1 July to 31 August. All days: 16:30-18:30 | price=Adult: {{SEK|200}}, Child (3-15 years): {{SEK|120}}, Child (less than 3 years): free | content=Didn't see a moose on your holiday? Well, here you've got the chance. Quite off the beaten track, so you need your own transport. }} ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. == Drink == ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} 4cekdwdm3uut29h9bbhsf9ncc6u4mpe 5091389 5091383 2025-07-11T11:41:29Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Sleep */ move to city article 5091389 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Blekinge Eriksberg Wildpark naturreservat Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Blekinge''' is a province in southern [[Götaland]], with approximately 155&nbsp;000 inhabitants. Its borders are identical to Blekinge County, ''Blekinge län''. Blekinge is known as the garden of Sweden, the area where Olofström Municipality borders Scania is also referred to as being the southernmost wilderness in Sweden. == Cities == {{mapframe|staticmap=BlekingeMap.png|zoom=8}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q102377}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|wikidata=Q25789}}, county seat and home port of the Swedish Navy. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage list]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlshamn]]|wikidata=Q54769}}, is one of Sweden's busiest cargo harbours. The old town is a many centuries old planned town at the natural harbour. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Olofström]]|wikidata=Q995431}}, next to Ekopark Raslången, Sweden's southernmost wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ronneby]]|wikidata=Q823785}}, known as a spa town. It features some historical streets in the town centre, a series of ornate guest houses along the river, and the spectacular parkland of the Brunnspark. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sölvesborg]]|wikidata=Q898727}}, with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. The old town with architecture like Danish towns at the Baltic Sea. Also home to Sweden Rock festival. == Other destinations == * '''[[Blekinge archipelago]]''' == Understand == Just as the neighbouring [[Scania]], Blekinge was part of [[Denmark]], though ceded to Sweden in the [[Roskilde]] treaty of 1658. In 1680, the Swedish navy built a base at [[Karlskrona]], soon making the city Sweden's third largest. Blekinge can be divided into three geographical distinct areas: The archipelago, the lowland by the coast and the highland in the northern inland. Most of the inhabitants in Blekinge live in the five main cities and in the coastal lowland. The rest of Blekinge is sparsely inhabited, which means there is hardly any public transport besides school buses. Outside the cities and villages most of the buildings are either farm houses or dwellings of considerable age. These older dwellings are popular amongst foreigners on vacation, and can be relatively expensive to buy, even though their standards are spartan (an outhouse and no tap water). == Talk == The dialects of Blekinge differs from standard [[Swedish]], and are a bit similar to the Scanian dialects. == Get in == ;By bus *'''[https://www.skanetrafiken.se/ Skånetrafiken]''', Route 561 from [[Bromölla]], [[Scania]] either southbound to [[Sölvesborg]] or northbound to [[Olofström]]. Route 562 from [[Älmhult]], Småland to Olofström. *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]''', Route 682 from Ryd, Småland via Kyrkhult ending in Olofström. ;By plane *'''[https://www.swedavia.com/ronneby/ Ronneby Airport]''' in Kallinge outside [[Ronneby]]. Only flights from [[Stockholm]] Arlanda International Airport. *The closest international airport is '''[https://www.cph.dk/en Copenhagen Airport]''' in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Øresundståg arrives every hour. ;By train *'''[https://www.oresundstag.se/en Öresundståg]''', trains from [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, stopping at [[Sölvesborg]], Mörrum, [[Karlshamn]], Bräkne-Hoby, [[Ronneby]], Bergåsa ending in [[Karlskrona]]. *'''[https://www.sj.se/en SJ]''', trains from [[Stockholm]] with change in [[Alvesta]], [[Småland]], and with trains from [[Gothenburg]], both with change in [[Emmaboda]], Småland, ending in Karlskrona. *'''[https://www.snalltaget.se/en/copenhagen-malmo-stockholm Snälltåget]''', trains from Malmö and Stockholm with connecting dedicated bus service from Alvesta, Småland, with stops in Karlshamn, Ronneby ending in Karlskrona. '''[http://resrobot.se Resrobot]''' is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden. ;By boat * '''[https://www.dfds.com/en/passenger-ferries/ferry-crossings/ferries-to-the-baltics/karlshamn-klaipeda DFDS Seaways]''' runs a ferry line between [[Klaipėda]], [[Lithuania]] and Karlshamn. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. * '''[https://www.stenalinetravel.com/routes/gdynia-karlskrona Stena Line]''' runs a ferry line between [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] and Karlskrona. The ferry line is mostly directed towards trucks and car drivers, but it is possible to book tickets for cyclists and pedestrians. == Get around == Public transport tickets are single fare and valid for a certain time period, during which all modes of transport can be utilized for the same ticket. ;By bus *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is city bus traffic in the five cities and a coastline bus (''kustbussen'') connecting the five cities. Outside of the cities there is scheduled bus traffic on working days 2-4 times between 06:00 and 18:00 (not in the week-ends or on national holidays). ;By train *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. Train stations are along the coastline railway, from the east coming from [[Bromölla]] in [[Scania]] (''Öresundståg''), stopping at Sölvesborg, Mörrum, Karlshamn, Bräkne-Hoby, Ronneby, Bergåsa and Karlskrona. There is also a train going from Karlskrona to [[Emmaboda]], [[Småland]] (''krösatågen'') to the north, it stops in Bergåsa and Holmsjö. ;By boat *'''[http://www.blekingetrafiken.se/ Blekingetrafiken]'''. There is a quite comprehensive public boat traffic within the Blekinge archipelago, but mostly in the summer season. Eight lines within the Karlskrona archipelago, three lines within the Ronneby archipelago, five lines within the Karlshamn archipelago. There is also one public boat line between Nogersund and the island of Hanö. == See == == Do == ===Fishing=== *The '''[https://www.sveaskog.se/en/morrum/ Mörrum Kronolaxfiske]''' is known for its salmon, sea trout and pike-perch fishing. It lies 950 meters from Mörrum railway station when following the Parkvägen street to the north (Mörrum river upstreams). *'''[http://media.harasjomalafiskecamp.com/2018/06/harasjo%CC%88karta2017.pdf Harasjömåla]''' put and take fishing to the west of Olofström. Salmon trout, rainbow trout, pike, bream, perch, eel and roach. Only accessible by own transport. ===Hiking=== *'''[https://www.sveaskog.se/upplev-naturen/besoksomraden/ekopark-raslangen/ Ekopark Raslången]''' is Sweden's southernmost wilderness. The 1,300 hectare large ecopark was inaugurated 2011 by Sveaskog, the state forestry, around the oblong Lake Raslången. The lake has virtually no settlements along its shores, which is very unusual for the south of Sweden. The forest is mixed coniferous and deciduous with the latter being at its northernmost latitude. The ecopark is also excellent for paddling canoe and fishing. ===For Kids=== *{{do | name=Räntemåla Gård | alt= | url=https://www.rantemala.se/en/ | email= | address=Räntemålavägen 18, Eringsboda | lat=56.453132 | long=15.235368 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open from 1 July to 31 August. All days: 16:30-18:30 | price=Adult: {{SEK|200}}, Child (3-15 years): {{SEK|120}}, Child (less than 3 years): free | content=Didn't see a moose on your holiday? Well, here you've got the chance. Quite off the beaten track, so you need your own transport. }} ===Music=== *The '''[https://swedenrock.com/ Sweden Rock Festival]''' is a hard rock festival outside of [[Sölvesborg]]. The festival offers the best possible mix of classic rock, hard rock, metal, blues and related genres. First week-end of June. == Eat == Most eateries outside the five cities are only open during the summer season. == Drink == ==Sleep== == Stay safe == == Go next == {{geo|56.333|15.333|zoom=10}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Blekinge|rel=y}} 51vukvvyc5iv8uggorwpj5zbevdr2yj 0 4356 5091269 5087952 2025-07-11T09:52:06Z Eiland 1930 /* By thumb */ 5091269 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Trebinje_banner.jpg|caption=Trebinje River in Herzegovina}} '''Bosnia and Herzegovina''' ([[Bosnian phrasebook|Bosnian]]: ''Bosna i Hercegovina'', Босна и Херцеговина, usually shortened to ''BiH'') is a European country on the [[Balkans|Balkan Peninsula]]. Mostly mountainous, it has access to a tiny portion of the Adriatic Sea coastline in the south. Visitors find well-restored historic cities, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, bustling city life and medieval monuments. ==Regions== Bosnia denotes the much larger northern region, comprising several geographic/historical subregions, and Herzegovina is the fairly compact southern part of the country. Here is a traveler-friendly division of the country based on traditional regions (and subregions): {{Regionlist | regionmap=Bosnia and Herzegovina Regions map.png | regionmapsize=430px | regionmaptext=Map of Bosnia and Herzegovina with travel regions colour-coded | region1name=[[Bosanska Krajina]] | region1color=#71B37B | region1description=northwestern part of the region of Bosnia, "hugged" by [[Croatia]] | region2name=[[Central Bosnia]] | region2color=#77A3C0 | region2description= | region3name=[[Herzegovina]] | region3color=#578E86 | region3description= south of country, traditionally inhabited by Croats mostly and the only region with coastal access. | region4name= [[Northeastern Bosnia]] | region4color=#B097B0 | region4description= | region5name= [[Posavina]] | region5color=#C8BEB7 | region5description=a northern part of the region of Bosnia, along the Sava River, reaching into the Pannonian basin | region6name= [[Sarajevo Region]] | region6color=#9DB28E | region6description=An eastern part of the region of Bosnia, containing the country's capital and environs }} ==Cities== <!-- capital top, alphabetise the rest 9 only please--> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sarajevo]]|wikidata=Q11194}} — the national capital; a cosmopolitan European city with a unique Eastern twist as can be seen in its vast diversity of architectural styles * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Banja Luka]]|wikidata=Q131127}} — the second largest city, serving as the ''de facto'' capital of ''Republika Srpska'', with some historical sights and a rich nightlife * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bihać]]|wikidata=Q204434}} — city near Croatian border, surrounded by an impressive nature preserve. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Jajce]]|wikidata=Q258429}} — a small city with a beautiful waterfall and number of historical attractions dotted around its centre * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mostar]]|wikidata=Q93347}} — a nice old town on the Neretva River, symbolised by its medieval bridge * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Neum]]|wikidata=Q320623}} — the only coastal town, with sandy beaches backed by steep hills * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tuzla]]|wikidata=Q174684}} — third largest city with much industry, though has a lovely old town and monuments to the brutal war too * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Teslic]]|wikidata=Q180753}} — а health spa resort with the biggest tourist capacity in the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Zenica]]|wikidata=Q184046}} — city with an Ottoman old quarter ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kozara]]|wikidata=Q2418337}} — national park in the north-west with dense forests and hilly meadows, a hiking and hunting destination. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Međugorje]]|wikidata=Q94950}} — inland town between mountains with a mild Mediterranean climate, but perhaps best known due to claims of apparitions of the Virgin Mary to six locals. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Srebrenica]]|wikidata=Q156053}} — small town in the north-east with beautiful nature, but best known as the site of a genocidal massacre during the Bosnian War. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationBosniaAndHerzegovina.png}} ===Meaning of "Bosnia" and "Herzegovina"=== The first thing to grasp is that while ''Bosnia'' and ''Herzegovina'' is commonly seen as a politically divided nation, and as a unique kind of a federal country, comprising two political units (mainly...), these units are decidedly ''not'' "Bosnia" and "Herzegovina". Not only are the units (which are constitutionally labelled as "entities") not named "Bosnia" and "Herzegovina"—they don't even roughly correlate to these terms. Regardless, Bosnia and Herzegovina very much still is "Bosnia plus Herzegovina", as these names denote traditional, historical, regions that comprise the entire country's territory. ===Political subdivision=== Constitutionally, the country is divided into two "entities" (they're the easiest to compare to federal units): *'''Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina''' (''FBiH'') with a predominant Bosniak/Croatian population *'''Republika Srpska''' (''RS'', literally ''Serbian Republic/Republic of Serbs'') with a Serbian majority population Territorially, they take up portions of both the region of Bosnia and the region of Herzegovina. Each has its own capital, government, president, parliament, and police departments. Until 2006, Republika Srpska even had its own armed forces. Along with the two entities, there's a third something: The District of Brčko is a small area within Posavina, that functions as a condominium of the two entities. {{infobox|''Bosnia and Herzegovina'' vs. the<br /> ''Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina''|Bosnia and Herzegovina, as a country, is not explicitly federal. The Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as one of the two entities, has "Federation" in its name because it comprises '''ten cantons'''. Each canton has a cantonal government with a prime minister, alongside various agencies (such as tourist boards), etc. ''It is these ten cantons that are in a federation'' and not the two entities. Unlike FBiH, Republika Srpska does not have cantons. }} {{infobox|No national tourist board|There are several official tourism associations operating in BiH, but none at the national level. At the entity level, there is only the [http://www.turizamrs.org Tourism organisation of Republika Srpska]. At the canton level (FBiH does not have its tourist board), each canton should ostensibly have its tourist board, but most are either defunct or simply don't have a website; the operational ones are: * [http://www.sarajevo-tourism.com Tourism Association of Sarajevo Canton], which promotes tourism in and around Sarajevo * [http://www.hercegovina.ba Tourist Board of HNC], which promotes tourism in the FBiH part of [[Herzegovina]] }} ===BiH and conflict=== The native Muslim population is referred to as Bosniaks, as a distinct ethnic group. Bosnia's Catholics and Orthodox Christians historically looked up to Croatia and Serbia respectively for guidance and as the parent country and both had aspirations for political union with either Croatia or Serbia once the Yugoslavian union began to fall apart in the early 1990s. This spelled disaster for the state of Bosnia and Herzegovina, resulting in a bloody civil war fought between all three groups. In the end the Bosnian-Croatian alliance fought the Serbian forces on the ground whilst NATO attacked the Bosnian Serbs from the air, causing a military defeat for the Serbs. A peace treaty followed, with the detailed scrutiny of the U.S. Clinton administration helping seal the deal. The result was that Bosnia and Herzegovina would be a federation of sorts, comprising a Bosnian-Croatian unit and a Serbian unit. Bosnia and Herzegovina functions as one country with two or even three different parts. However, the central government lies in Sarajevo and there is one common currency, the convertible marka, although there are two sets of banknotes, with distinct designs for the Federation and the Republic of Srpska, valid countrywide. The currency was named after and was pegged one-to-one to the Deutschmark (German currency prior to the euro). ===History=== 9 May 1945: End of World War II (National Holiday) '''National holiday in Federation of BiH''' : 25 November: Bosnia and Herzegovina's declaration of sovereignty in October 1991, was followed by a declaration of independence from the former Yugoslavia on 3 March 1992 after a referendum boycotted by ethnic Serbs. This national holiday is not commemorated in the RS. '''National holiday in Republika Srpska''' : 9 January: The Day of the Republic. On 9 January 1992, the Bosnian Serb Assembly adopted a declaration on the Proclamation of the Serbian Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina. In August 1992, the reference to Bosnia and Herzegovina was dropped from the name, and it became "Republika Srpska". '''Independence''': 1 March 1992 (from Yugoslavia; referendum for independence was completed 1 March 1992; independence was declared 3 March 1992) The Bosnian Serbs, supported by neighbouring Serbia and Montenegro, responded with armed resistance aimed at partitioning the republic along ethnic lines and joining Serb-held areas together to form a "greater Serbia". In March 1994, Bosniaks and Croatians reduced the number of warring factions from three to two by signing an agreement creating a joint Bosniak-Croatian Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. On 21 November 1995, in Dayton, Ohio, the warring parties signed a peace agreement that brought to a halt the three bloody years of ethno-religious civil strife (the final agreement was signed in Paris on 14 December 1995). '''Constitution''' : the Dayton Agreement, reached at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio, United States, on 21 November 1995, and signed in Paris on 14 December 1995, included a new constitution now in force;each of the entities also has its own constitution. [[File:Map Bih entities.png|thumb|right|Politically, BiH consists of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (blue), Republika Srpska (pink) and Brčko District (yellow)]] The Dayton Agreement retained Bosnia and Herzegovina's international boundaries and created a joint multi-ethnic and democratic government. This national government was charged with conducting foreign, economic, and fiscal policy. Also recognised was a second tier of government comprised of two entities roughly equal in size: the Bosniak/Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Bosnian Serb-led Republika Srpska (RS). The Federation and RS governments are charged with overseeing internal functions. In 1995–1996, a NATO-led international peacekeeping force (IFOR) of 60,000 troops served in Bosnia to implement and monitor the military aspects of the agreement. IFOR was succeeded by a smaller, NATO-led Stabilisation Force (SFOR) whose mission is to deter renewed hostilities. SFOR was shut down at the end of 2004. Some foreign troops remained until at least 2013. ===Culture=== [[File:Travnik Panorama 1.JPG|thumb|300px|[[Travnik]] panorama]] Bosniaks, Croatians and Serbians form the largest ethnic groups in the country. Since the break-up of Yugoslavia, ''Bosniak'' has replaced ''Muslim'' as an ethnic term in part to avoid confusion with the religious term Muslim — an adherent of Islam. Ethnicity and religion mostly overlap; with Muslims (mostly Bosniaks), Roman Catholic Christians (mostly Croatians) and Orthodox Christians (mostly Serbians) being the three main religious groups of the country. There are also some Roma, Protestants and Jews as well. Nevertheless, the country is highly secular and religion is seen as more of a traditional and cultural identity than a set of rituals and rules. ===Climate=== Hot summers and cold winters; areas of high elevation have short, cool summers and long, severe winters; mild, rainy winters along coast ===Terrain=== A succession of mountains with relatively few intervening fertile valleys. There are occasional earthquakes and the highest point is Maglić at 2,386 m. There are several national parks. The mountainous terrain offers spectacular views. ==Talk== {{See also|Bosnian phrasebook}} Bosnia and Herzegovina has three official languages: [[Bosnian phrasebook|Bosnian]], [[Croatian phrasebook|Croatian]], and [[Serbian phrasebook|Serbian]]. These are mutually intelligible standardized varieties of a single language which historically bore the official name "Serbo-Croatian" (it is still called that in linguistics) with differences posing no communication barrier. Examples include "coffee" being kafa in Serbian and kava in Bosnian/Croatian, while Bosnian features more Turkish loanwords. City dwellers speak a shared urban vernacular, and phrasebooks for any variety are interchangeable countrywide. In any case, even as literary languages and languages used in official correspondence, the varieties are very similar, and vocabulary differences are minor and contextually understood. However, Serbian uses Cyrillic, which is the biggest departure. It actually uses both Cyrillic and Latin scripts officially. Learning to read Serbian Cyrillic might take a couple of hours and could be worth it for a traveler, but isn't necessary. Road signs might include inscriptions in both alphabets. Cyrillic is common on signage in Republika Srpska (so a Serbian-English dictionary might aid navigation), but Latin still dominates in daily life. You might encounter Cyrillic in FBiH as well in some contexts, but it isn't common. English is widely spoken by younger generations, especially in urban areas. German is sometimes spoken (there are diaspora returnees, people who seasonally work in Germany, people with family in Germany et cetera). Russian, taught pre-1990s, is understood by some seniors. ==Get in== ===Entry requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Bosnia and Herzegovina.png|thumb|450px|Countries in blue and green have visa free access to Bosnia and Herzegovina]] Passport holders of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina when the purpose of the visit is tourism for up to '''90 days''' (unless otherwise noted): [[Albania]], [[Antigua and Barbuda]], [[Andorra]], [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[Austria]], [[Azerbaijan]], [[Bahamas]], [[Bahrain]], [[Barbados]], [[Belgium]], [[Brazil]], [[Brunei]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[Colombia]], [[Costa Rica]], [[Croatia]], [[Cyprus]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Denmark]], [[Dominica]], [[El Salvador]], [[Estonia]], [[Finland]], [[France]], [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]], [[Germany]], [[Greece]], [[Grenada]], [[Guatemala]], [[Rome/Vatican|Holy See]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Hungary]], [[Iceland]], [[Ireland]], [[Israel]], [[Italy]], [[Japan]], [[Kiribati]], [[Kuwait]], [[Latvia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Lithuania]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Macau]], [[Malaysia]], [[Malta]], [[Marshall Islands]], [[Mauritius]], [[Mexico]], [[Micronesia]], [[Moldova]], [[Monaco]], [[Montenegro]], [[Netherlands]], [[New Zealand]], [[Nicaragua]], [[North Macedonia]], [[Norway]], [[Oman]], [[Palau]], [[Panama]], [[Paraguay]], [[Peru]], [[Poland]], [[Portugal]], [[Qatar]], [[Romania]], [[Russia]] ('''30 days'''), [[Saint Kitts and Nevis]], [[Saint Lucia]], [[Saint Vincent and the Grenadines]], [[Samoa]], [[San Marino]], [[Serbia]], [[Seychelles]], [[Singapore]], [[Slovakia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Solomon Islands]], [[South Korea]], [[Spain]], [[Sweden]], [[Switzerland]], [[Taiwan]], [[Timor-Leste]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[Turkey]], [[Tuvalu]], [[Ukraine]] ('''30 days'''), [[United Arab Emirates]], [[United Kingdom]], [[United States of America|United States]], [[Uruguay]], [[Vanuatu]] and [[Venezuela]]. Citizens of the following countries can enter and stay up to '''90 days''' with their national ID card: [[Austria]], [[Belgium]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Croatia]], [[Cyprus]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Denmark]], [[Estonia]], [[Finland]], [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Greece]], [[Hungary]], [[Iceland]], [[Ireland]], [[Italy]], [[Latvia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Lithuania]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Malta]], [[Monaco]], [[Montenegro]], [[Netherlands]], [[North Macedonia]], [[Norway]], [[Poland]], [[Portugal]], [[Romania]], [[San Marino]], [[Serbia]], [[Slovakia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Spain]], [[Sweden]] and [[Switzerland]]. Anyone not covered by one of the visa exemptions listed above must apply for a visa at an embassy or consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina in advance. However, valid multiple entry visa holders and residents of the European Union, Schengen Area member states, and United States of America can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina without a visa for a maximum stay of '''30 days'''. This is not applicable to holders of Kosovar passport. More information about visa exemptions and the visa application procedure is available at the [http://www.mvp.gov.ba/konzularne_informacije/vize/Default.aspx website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs]. ===By plane=== [[File:Sarajevo Airport from Trebević.jpg|thumb|Sarajevo Airport]] '''[http://www.sarajevo-airport.ba Sarajevo Airport]''' ({{IATA|SJJ}}) is the main entry point by air. Bosnia has no airlines of its own. Croatia Airlines connects Sarajevo via [[Zagreb]], and has connections from [[Brussels]], [[Frankfurt]], [[London]], [[Munich]], [[Paris]], [[Zürich]] and several other European cities. [http://www.airserbia.com Air Serbia] connects Sarajevo daily via [[Belgrade]] with a range of domestic and international flights. [http://www.norwegian.com Norwegian] also operates to Sarajevo. There are also other services. [http://www.mostar-airport.ba '''Mostar'''] ({{IATA|OMO}}), '''[http://www.tuzla-airport.ba Tuzla]''' ({{IATA|TZL}}) and '''[http://www.banjaluka-airport.com/ Banja Luka]''' ({{IATA|BNX}}) also have international airports. Flights to Banja Luka on low-cost-carriers like Wizz Air and Ryan Air can be really cheap as they seem to be subsidized by the government of Republika Srpska to promote tourism to the region and increase its European integration. Many travellers choose to fly into Croatia, continuing travel by bus to BiH, on [[Zagreb#By plane|Zagreb]], [[Split#By plane|Split]], [[Zadar#By plane|Zadar]] or [[Dubrovnik#By plane|Dubrovnik]] being serviced by cheap flights. ===By train=== [[File:Banja Luka train departures 9-2023.jpg|thumb|Sad state of train departures from Banja Luka]] Train services across the country are slowly improving, though speeds and frequencies are still low. Much of the rail infrastructure was damaged during the 1990s conflict, and lines have been opened on a priority basis, though not to the high level of service pre-war. The train services are operated by the two entities (based on the political division of the country), which results in the locomotives being changed rather often. The main connections are via [[Zagreb]], the capital of Croatia. The [[European rail passes#InterRail|Interrail]] pass and the [[European rail passes#Balkan Flexipass|Balkan Flexipass]] are valid for travel to Bosnia. ====From Croatia==== The Zagreb–Bosnia train seems to be cancelled since December 2016 until further notice. There is one daily train running from Zagreb to Sarajevo (10 hours). The 'day' train leaves from Zagreb at 08:59 and arrives in Sarajevo at 18:23. The return journey departs Sarajevo around 10:21 and coming to Zagreb at 19:42. Ticket costs around €30 one way (return ticket cost around €50). Tickets can be purchased in the international office at train station in Croatia or in Bosnia in local currency. There is no buffet car on this route so take supplies beforehand for the spectacular 9-hr trip, though men with small trolleys will occasionally walk through the train selling overpriced soft drinks etc. Aim to buy your ticket before you board the train. If you don't buy before you board, then buy from the conductor onboard – but they may only sell you a ticket for their own part of the journey. The staff and locomotives usually change when the train leaves Croatian territory and again when the train goes from the territory of Republika Srpska into the Federation. ===By car=== Border crossings normally pose few problems, but some border crossings are heavily congested during some parts of the year. As of 2009, the main routes from the coast via Mostar to Sarajevo, and north from Sarajevo to the Croatian border at Slavonski Brod/Slavonski Šamac, have been restored and are of excellent quality. A new highway which follows this path is under construction, with the first part north of Sarajevo readily available, although some construction may slow down traffic at each end of this projected highway. From Sarajevo side you will have to pay toll of 2&nbsp;km for passenger car. Toll booths at the opposite end as of 2011 were being installed and not functioning. When finished, this highway will connect the northern part of Croatia with the coast as well as the new highway from Zagreb to Split, which eventually will extend to Dubrovnik. ===By bus=== Buses are plentiful in and [[Bus travel in former Yugoslavia|around]] Bosnia. A list of bus stations and timetables in Bosnia can be found at [http://www.autobusni-kolodvor.com/en/terminal.aspx?k=148&d=070 autobusni-kolodvor.com] Most international buses arrive at the main Sarajevo bus station (''autobuska stanica'') which is next to the railway station close to the centre of Sarajevo. A few buses from Belgrade, the Republika Srpska entity and [[Montenegro]] use the ''Lukavica'' bus station in Istočno (Eastern) Sarajevo (the Serbian neighbourhood of the town). Frequent coach services run from [[Sarajevo]] from: * [[Croatia]] – [[Zagreb]] (4 daily), [[Split]] (4 daily), [[Rijeka]] and [[Pula]] (daily), and [[Dubrovnik]] (daily at 06:30) * [[Serbia]] – between [[Belgrade]] and (eastern) Sarajevo there are 5 daily services, there is also a daily service to Sarajevo main station * [[Slovenia]] – [[Ljubljana]] (daily) * [[Montenegro]] – [[Kotor]] daily (the trip is 7 hours and has spectacular views) in addition to the longer-distance buses originating in [[North Macedonia]], [[Austria]] and [[Germany]]. From [[Mostar]], [[Banja Luka]], [[Tuzla]] and [[Zenica]] are also frequent international services. [[Herzegovina]] also has many bus services from the [[Dalmatia]]n coastal cities of Croatia. International bus services are nearly always in modern, luxurious 5-star coaches - the only exceptions to this are normally the local buses operating slightly over the border (max. 3 hour trips). ==== Companies ==== Due to significant emigration during the Bosnian war in the 1990s, there are a number of bus companies that serve the Bosnian diaspora by providing cheap and [[Sustainable travel#CO2 emissions|clean]] transport to the other side of Europe. * {{listing | name=Centrotrans | url=http://www.centrotrans.com/eng/ | email=info@centrotrans.com | address=Based in Sarajevo | lat= | long= | directions=buses are operated through the regular bus stations around the country | phone=+387 33 46 40 45 | tollfree= | fax=+387 33 46 40 40 | hours= | price= | content=Centrotrans operates for [[Eurolines]] to [[Austria]], [[Belgium]], [[Croatia]], [[Denmark]], [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Montenegro]], [[Serbia]] and [[Slovenia]]. }} * {{listing | name=Globtour | url=http://www.globtour.com/ | email=miro@globtour.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Operates from [[Međugorje]], through the whole country | phone=+387 36 653 253 | tollfree= | fax=+387 36 653 251 | hours= | price= | content=Regular buses to [[Germany]], [[Austria]], [[Sweden]] and [[Croatia]]. }} * {{listing | name=Semi tours | url=http://semi-tours.com | email=info@semi-tours.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+387 61 596 443 | tollfree= | fax=+32 36 638699 | hours= | price=Return ticket from €137 | content=Cooperation with Eurolines and Centrotrans, several buses per week to [[Belgium]] and [[The Netherlands]] }} * {{listing | name=Gold tours | url=http://www.goldtours.ba/ | email=goldze@bih.net.ba | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+387 32 444 960 | tollfree= | fax=+387 32 444 961 | hours= | price=Return ticket from €100 | content=Buses to [[Belgium]], [[The Netherlands]], [[Luxembourg]] and [[Switzerland]]. }} * {{listing | name=Top Tourist | url=http://www.toptourist.dk | email=info@toptourist.dk | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+387 66 30 8300 | tollfree= | fax=+387 51 32 11 00 | hours= | price=Tickets can be paid on the bus, but advance booking and payment is recommended. Sarajevo via Salzburg (twice weekly) c. DKK1,000 (KM280, €140) return | content=Weekly buses from and to Nordic European countries (e.g. Denmark, Sweden, Norway) }} ===By boat=== Bosnia has a quite small coastline in [[Neum]]. There is not a lot of harbour facilities, but they have two quays (with limited depth) and a gangway for ferries. Ferries are available to Neum from other cities on the Adriatic, connecting from Croatia and other countries. There are no international ferries across the Adriatic from [[Italy]], but these do operate from [[Dubrovnik]] and [[Split]]. Ferries, some of them privately run, are also available on inland rivers and lakes. For going to Neum by own boat, it's possible to check-out in [[Ploče]] in Croatia, and then go to Neum and check in there. The harbour office in Neum is open on weekdays 08:00–15:00. The fees for visiting Neum may be quite high, in the magnitude of hundreds of euros. The procedure may be simplified by doing it through an agent. Compared to the ease of going from Croatia to Bosnia by car, bike or feet, going by own boat is a major hassle. ==Get around== ===By car=== {{infobox|Knowing which entity you're in |There is free movement across the inter-entity border, so it is essentially not very different from [[United States of America|U.S.]] state borders considering its impact on travel. One of the few practical implications is that the roadside assistance organizations are different: if you need something like towing services in Republika Srpska, you need to call the [https://ams-rs.com RS organization] ({{phone|+387 1285}}) and [https://bihamk.ba vice versa] ({{phone|+387 1282}}; depending on the exact location in FBiH [https://www.amsbih.ba another association] may need to be called: {{phone|+387 1288}}). }} Bosnia is a beautiful country to drive in; the scenery is often spectacular. Renting a car is a reasonable option, especially if you are visiting remote destinations outside of Sarajevo. [[File:M20 Bosnia.jpg|thumb|View of the M20 highway — watch the cow!]] However, due to the mountainous terrain, dubious driving behaviour by some road users (including dangerous overtaking on narrow highways), and generally poor road conditions throughout the country, do not expect speeds will be fast - especially given the relatively short distance 'as the crow flies'. If you drive to remote areas, roads can be downright dangerous, especially in more mountainous places like Sutjeska NP. Petrol stations can be hard to find in some spots – often the best place to fill up is on the edge of towns and cities rather than in them. Mechanics who speak English may be hard to find, and licensing may be an issue so ensure that you are allowed to drive there. Police regularly set up roadblocks; don't be surprised if they pull you over to check your papers and have a chat. === By bus=== The best way to get around with public transport is with bus. There is a dense network of bus lines, all run by relatively small private companies. Be aware that if you buy a return ticket for a line which is served by more companies, you can only make the return trip with the company you bought the ticket at. However, buses seem to be less frequent when there is the need to cross the ethnic borders. And in some regions the frequency can be very low or non-existent. Especially in those cases bus rides can take much longer than you would expect based on Google Maps driving directions or the linear distance between start and end point as some roads that are marked on maps do not exist due to corruption and because the buses often do not take the shortest route. For example, Buses from Sarajevo to Banja Luka take about 5 to 6 hours for a distance of effectively 150 km. Notable bus companies include Autotrans, Centrotrans, Gluho and Lasta. ===By train=== [[File:Banja Luka train departures 9-2023.jpg|thumb|Train departures from Banja Luka]] Going by train is an option, but the connections are limited and slow ([http://zfbh.ba Federation], [http://www.zrs-rs.com RS]). For instance, there are two daily connections from and to Sarajevo. Many train lines were damaged in the war, and have not yet been rebuilt. There is also a lack of carriages and trains to provide frequent services – even on the busy lines like Mostar–Sarajevo, Tuzla–Banja Luka and Sarajevo–Banja Luka. However, the rides are scenic, especially that Mostar–Sarajevo stretch. Taking a bicycle onto the train may be an issue. Book the train online, it will save you time and will be the same price as at the counter in the terminal—also at the counter you have to pay the ominous booking fee. As of 2023, train services in Bosnia and Herzegovina are severely limited. Many previously operational lines have been discontinued, and the train network in the Republika Srpska region in the north has been particularly affected. Several train lines were temporarily closed during the COVID-19 pandemic and have yet to resume operation. Notably, the train journey between the two largest cities, Sarajevo and Banja Luka, is no longer possible, and this situation persists for unclear reasons. Only freight trains operate between these two major cities, as of 2023. Tuzla is not reachable by train either. Don't be surprised by the train conductor checking your ticket with a cigarette in his lip. Most of the trains seem to permit smoking. ===By thumb=== [[Tips for hitchhiking|Hitchhiking]] can be fun in Bosnia, as you will get rides from local people who you wouldn't otherwise encounter. You might even be invited for an overnight stay. However, be careful of landmines, and if you're not sure, stay on the paved road, and ask locals ("MEE-ne?"). Due to the ethnic division, it can be difficult to cross the borders from and to Srpska. In general, hitchhiking is rare in Bosnia and not always easy (locals are eager to take you; the main reason why hitchhiking may be difficult is because there aren't always many cars around as many locals cannot afford a car). You might wait 5 min or 2 hours. Ride-sharing is often practised using Facebook groups like ''[https://www.facebook.com/groups/trazim.nudim.prevoz Trazim- nudim prevoz]'' (Searching- offering transport). ===By bicycle=== [[Cycling]] is beautiful in Bosnia. Other traffic is not so much used to how to relate to bikes on their way, though, and due to the driving behaviour of Bosnian drivers, it can be very dangerous indeed. ===On foot and navigation=== Google Maps in Bosnia includes public transport information, but is very rudimentary when it comes to outdoors and due to the mines situation it is important to have a better alternative. It does, however, still have its imperfections. Therefore, for reliable maps, [[GPS navigation]], comprehensive trails and map information, consult [https://openstreetmap.org OpenStreetMap], which is also used by this travel guide and by many mobile Apps like [https://osmand.net OsmAnd] or [https://en.mapy.cz Mapy.cz]. Or just download the according GPX or KML files for such trails on OpenStreetMap through [https://hiking.waymarkedtrails.org Waymarked Trails]. You just need to change the OpenStreetMap relation ID to download the GPX or KML files through the same link. If you are looking for detailed army maps, you can find a list [http://www.armijabih.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=142:karte&catid=36:ostalo&Itemid=59 here]. ==See== [[File:Mostar Old Town Panorama 2007.jpg|thumb|The famous Stari Most was beautifully restored.]] [[File:Kravica Author S Hense.jpg|thumb|The waterfalls at Kravice]] If Bosnia and Herzegovina makes you think of concrete Communist architecture or 1990s images of war-demolished town centres double-torn by ethno-religious strife, you're in for a pleasant surprise. Of course this country bears the marks of its tumultuous history, but visitors today find rebuilt and '''well restored historic cities''', a warm and welcoming atmosphere, bustling city life and -overall- more '''medieval monuments''' than Socialist housing blocks. In fact, some of the remains of the Communist era, like the D-0 ARK bunker (otherwise known as Tito's Bunker) near [[Konjic]], have become attractions of their own. The country's main visitor draws however lie in its charming historic town centres, ancient heritage sites and splendid nature. '''[[Sarajevo]]''' has some of the most extensive Socialist housing projects, but is also a colourful historic mix of East and West, where religions and cultures coexisted for centuries. It's a vibrant town that resurrected into what it always was; the country's modern capital, proud of its heritage and a popular destination for travellers of all kinds. Top sights include the lively '''Baščaršija''' or Old Bazaar, the '''Sarajevo cathedral''', the '''Gazi Husrev-beg's Mosque''' and of course the legacy sports facilities of the 1984 Olympics. Equally interesting is the '''Tunel spasa''', or tunnel of hope, which brought supplies to the people of Sarajevo in the war and is now a museum. The beautiful old town of '''[[Mostar]]''' is another city gem, with the famous UNESCO World Heritage-listed '''Stari Most''' bridge as a main landmark. Carefully rebuilt, it's widely recognised as one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in the Balkans. '''[[Višegrad]]''' has a UNESCO-listed bridge of its own, namely the impressive '''Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge'''. For more city grandeur, try the green gardens and avenues of [[Banja Luka]]. Finally, most components of the world heritage [[Stećci Medieval Tombstones Graveyards]] (medieval decorated tombstones) are in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Great natural attractions can be found all around, even close to the main cities. Take a horse carriage to '''Vrelo Bosne''' (the spring of river Bosna) to join Sarajevo families for quiet getaways and picknicks. The '''waterfalls of Kravice''', about 40km from Mostar, make for another fabulous natural trip. A popular spot for city dwellers and rafters, the water of the Trebižat River drops some 30 metres in a beautiful natural setting of tuff walls. Other dramatic waterfalls can be found in the far west of the country, in the lush '''[[Una National Park]]'''. And then of course, there is the famous '''[[Jajce]] waterfall''', where the clear waters of the Pliva river drop 17 metres right in the middle of the town. Nature lovers may also want to include [[Hutovo Blato Natural Park]] for bird watching or [[Sutjeska National Park]], with a waterfall as well as one of only two remaining '''primeval forests''' in Europe. Top picks for village life can be found in the historic citadel of '''Počitelj''', '''Blagaj''' (where you'll also find the spring of the river Buna) or, for environmentalists, in the [http://www.zelenkovac.com/ Zelenkovac ecovillage] near [[Mrkonjić Grad]]. Just outside of [[Radimlja]] is the largest collection of Stećak, a remarkable kind of pre-Ottoman tombstones that are found throughout the ancient Bosnian Kingdom. ==Do== [[File:Sarajevo – Bob staza (2017).jpg|thumb|Bobsleigh tracks from the Sarajevo 1984 Winter Olympics as of 2017]] * {{do | name=Rafting | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=Rafting on the Neretva river, the Una river and the Tara with the Drina river, with some shorter courses on the Krivaja river, the Vrbas river and the Sana river.<br/>2009 World championship of rafting was held in [[Banja Luka]] on the Vrbas river and in [[Foča]] on the Drina, both in RS. }} * {{do | name=Kayaking and canoeing | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=The Neretva river and its tributary the Trebižat, the Unac river, also the Krivaja river and its tributary Bioštica river are great kayaking destinations with a lot of whitewater on the Krivaja river. The Pliva river and its lakes Veliko and Malo are great canoeing destinations, also the middle and lower Una river, the Trebižat river. }} * {{do | name=Canyoning | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=The famous Rakitnica canyon of the Rakitnica river, tributary of the Neretva river, offer great [[canyoning]] adventure, but even extreme canyoning route can be found in the Bjela river another tributary of the Neretva river. The Unac river and its canyon offer great canyoning route.<br/>Also close to [[Banja Luka]] you can explore the canyons of the Svrakava and Cvrcka rivers. }} * {{do | name=Mountain biking | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=Sport is popular in the country, while mountainous terrain of the country getting increasingly popular destination for bikers from all over the world. }} * {{do | name=Winter sports | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=Bosnia and Herzegovina was the 1984 host for the Winter Olympics, and it still takes pride of its winter sports potential. Especially around Sarajevo there are challenging venues. During the war of the 1990s many Olympic venues were severely affected, but today's skier will have a great experience.<br/>Close to Sarajevo there are the Bjelasnica, with over 8&nbsp;km of ski trails, the Jahorina (20&nbsp;km) and Igman mountains. Close to [[Travnik]] is the Vlasic Mountain with 14&nbsp;km. Other resorts are [[Blidinje]], [[Vlasenica]] in the east and [[Kupres]] in Western Bosnia.<br/>Bjelašnica and Jahorina are also beautiful for hikes during summer. }} ** {{marker|wikidata=Q1110607|type=vicinity|name=Igman}} **{{marker|wikidata=Q187944|type=vicinity|name=Jahorina}} **{{marker|wikidata=Q879414|type=vicinity|name=Bjelašnica}} * {{do | name=Fly-fishing | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=The most fly-fishing areas in Bosnia are in the North-West of the [[Bosanska Krajina]], within National Park "Una", and around the river Sana [http://www.effa.info/bosnia-herzegovina.html].<br/>Fly-fishing fanatics can go on a tour by the different trout-hotspots on the river Una, the Klokot, the Krušnica, the Unac, the Sana, the Bliha, the Sanica, the Ribnik, the Vrbas, the Pliva, the Janj, the Sturba, the Trebižat, the Buna, the Bunica, the Neretva, the Tara, the Sutjeska, the Drina, the Fojnica, the Bioštica, the Žepa, and many other smaller rivers and streams; most famous centres are [[Konjic]], [[Glavatičevo]], [[Tjentište]] within National Park "Sutjeska", [[Foča]], [[Goražde]], [[Bosanska Krupa]], [[Bihać]], [[Martin Brod]], [[Drvar]], [[Ribnik]], [[Ključ]], [[Sanica]][http://www.oazamirasanica.com.ba/], [[Sanski Most]], [[Šipovo]], [[Jajce]], [[Livno]], [[Blagaj]]. In several of those towns there are resorts specially geared towards the needs of the angler. }} === Hiking === Hiking is great in the unspoiled nature of BiH. A great hub for close by and multiple day hikes is [[Jablanica]], which has impressive Karst-mountains to the west and southeast of it. When hiking to or around national parks, note that many national parks and sights have several entrances (i.e. routes) into them, but only the ones reached by car mostly have ticket stands. This means when around on foot, you can often not avoid to miss the ticket seller and thus getting in for free. You do not necessarily have to feel bad about that. A good guidebook is [http://www.worldcat.org/title/forgotten-beauty-a-hikers-guide-to-bosnia-and-herzegovinas-2000-metre-peaks-and-other-selected-adventures/oclc/440651697 Forgotten beauty:A hiker's guide to Bosnia and Herzegovina's 2000 metre peaks - and other selected adventures] by Matias Gomez. Some destinations well worth mentioning are: * [[Jablanica]] – conveniently on the train route between [[Sarajevo]] and [[Mostar]], the surrounding mountains offer several one- to several-days hikes east and southwest of the town. Several huts can be found along the trails, from well catered to basic ones. * [[Foča]] – this town can be a gateway into several hiking destinations along the border to Montenegro, including '''Maglić Mountain''', which lies on the other side of the border but can still be climbed from this side. The beautiful Sutjeska National Park is close by. The Montenegrin border is unclear at many locations, especially within the national park. * {{marker|type=do|name=Uništa|wikidata=Q3182483}} – the mountains around this small village (not directly accessible from the Bosnian side) contain a few huts, and on the Croatian side a popular "blue hole" can be found, which makes for some interesting and picturesque hikes. * [[Bihać|Una Falls]] – these waterfalls are within the [http://nationalpark-una.ba/en/ Una National Park]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, which invites for several hike (one-day or multiday). You might even try hiking in along the rail tracks from the nearby town Ripač in the north. The entrances to the park are numbered and named accordingly, like "Entrance No. 1". ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Konvertibilna marka | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;KM | date=July 2025 | USD=1.66 | EUR=1.95 (fixed) | GBP=2.26 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/bam-bosnian-convertible-marka XE.com] }} The official currency is the '''konvertibilna marka''' (or '''marka''') (convertible mark), denoted by the symbol '''KM''' (ISO code: '''BAM'''). It is fixed with the euro at the precise rate of KM 1.95583 for €1. '''Euro''' cash is also widely accepted, though mostly in denominations of €20 or less. 1 konvertibilna marka is equal to 100 fenings. There are two sets of banknotes, with distinct designs for the Federation and the Republic of Srpska. However, both sets are valid anywhere in the country. Coins are issued in denominations of 5-, 10-, 20 and 50 fenings, KM 1-, KM 2 and KM 5. Banknotes are issued in denominations of KM 10-, KM 20-, KM 50-, KM 100 and KM 200. Before you leave the country, '''be sure to''' (!) convert back any unused currency into something more common (euros, dollars) as most other countries will not exchange KM, even other Balkan countries. '''Credit cards''' are not widely accepted. Try to not pay with 100-KM or 200-KM notes, as smaller shops might not have enough change. ====ATMs==== ATMs are available in the most cities (Visa and Maestro). However, most will charge a considerable fee, which is added to the amount dispensed when invoiced. As of 2022, the fees are: * ATOS Bank: 0 KM (a Banja Luka bank, only available in Srpska) * NLP Banka: 8 KM * Nova Bank: 15 KM * Raiffeisen: 14.50 KM * Addiko Bank: 10 KM * UniCredit: 7 KM * Sparkasse: 10 KM * Ziraat Bank: 10 KM ====Cope==== Bosnians are very accurate when giving change or calculating the bill. They will seldom try to rip you off or overcharge you. ===Shopping=== Most towns and cities will have markets and fares where any number of artisans, sellers, and dealers will offer any kind of stock. Different foods are readily available, both fresh and cooked, as well as clothing, jewellery and souvenirs. At the markets you are able to negotiate with the seller, although that may take some practice. Like in most such venues prices may be inflated for foreigners based on a quick 'means test' made by the seller. Often those who look like they can afford more will be asked to pay more. You'll find large shopping centres in most cities and towns. [[Sarajevo]] is fine for buying clothes and shoes of cheap quality at a relatively affordable price. The main shopping streets of Sarajevo are also great for black market products including the latest DVDs, video games and music CDs. Visoko and the central Bosnia region are very well known for their leather work. Banja Luka has seven big shopping malls, as well many small businesses, and you will be able to find a large variety of goods. [[Mostar]] has an excellent shopping mall on the Croatian side with some typical European-style clothing boutiques and jewellery shops. === Tax-free shopping === {{see also|Duty free shopping}} If you have a temporal (tourist) residency status and you buy goods worth more than 100 KM you are entitled to a PDV (VAT) tax refund. PDV consist of 17% of the purchase price. The refund applies to all goods bought within three months before leaving, except petroleum, alcohol or tobacco. At the shop, ask the staff for a tax-refund form (PDV-SL-2). Have it filled out and have stamped (you need your identity card or passport). Upon leaving BiH, the Bosnian customs can verify (stamp) the form if you show them the goods you bought. A PDV refund in KM can be obtained within three months, either at the same shop where you bought the goods (in that case the tax will be refunded to you immediately), or by posting the verified receipt back to the shop, together with the account number into which the refund should be paid. Be aware that upon entering another country you might be obliged to pay VAT over the goods exported from Bosnia. There is always a free amount, though, mostly a few hundred euros. Also, the procedure at the border might take a bit of time, so it is not wise to try this when travelling by train or bus, unless the driver agrees to wait. ==Eat== ===What=== [[File:Sarajevo jidelnicek.jpg|thumb|Menu outside a Sarajevo restaurant]] Local food is heavy on meat and fish, and light on vegetarian alternatives. Stews often contain meat but can be created without it. Rice and pasta dishes are readily available. Fast food, with the exceptions of cevapi and pita (or burek) consists of, like in other parts of Europe, pizza, hamburgers and hot dogs. Panini sandwiches are served in most coffee shops popular with the youth, and Bosnian coffee, reminiscent of Turkish coffee, is a must-try for any coffee aficionado. Oddly, apart from these fast food options, Bosnian restaurants serve few Bosnian specialities; what people eat in their homes is very different from what they will eat if they go to a restaurant. ====Hearty==== [[File:Sarajevo Ćevapi (1).JPG|thumb|Cevapi with bread and sliced onions]] [[File:A Lamb Roast (5919064888).jpg|thumb|Janjetina, lamb roast]] * '''Cevapi''' – The ubiquitous Balkan kebab, mostly available in [[Sarajevo]] (normally 2-4&nbsp;KM). There are two prominent variations: the '''"Banja Luka" Cevap''', a larger kebab with a square shape, and the '''"Sarajevo" Cevap''', smaller and round. If you have not had them before, every visitor should try an order of Cevapi at least once. There are several variations of ''pita'' (around 2&nbsp;KM). * '''Burek''' (''pita'') – A cheap, tasty and readily available snack, a pastry made of filo dough and stuffed with meat (simply ''Burek''), cheese (''Sirnica''), spinach (''Zeljanica''), potatoes (''Krompirusa'') or apple (''Jabukovaca''). Some examples are better than others, however, and it can be a greasy affair. If you get to [[Mostar]] try a plate of trout ("pastrmka", which sounds like "pastrami"), which is the local speciality. Traditionally, the burek dough is not made with eggs to burek with no cheese or meat filling is mostly vegan. * '''Trahana''' – A traditional sourdough soup filling, hand made in most regions and a staple during the fasting month of Ramadan. * '''Stews''' – In every-day cooking, Bosnians eat lots of stew-type meals, like '''Kupus''', a traditional boiled cabbage dish; '''Grah''', beans prepared in a similar fashion, so-called "vegetarian" dish with beans, yet cooked with bacon or smoked meats; and a fairly-runny variation of '''Hungarian goulash'''. All are made with garlic, onions, celery and carrots, followed by a vegetable, smoked meat and several cups of water. This is then cooked until the vegetables are falling apart. A local spice called "Vegeta" is incorporated into almost every dish, and the same spice is used throughout the region, as far as Poland. It is comparable to chicken Oxo cubes, or, in other words, condensed chicken broth mix. These type of stew meals will cost you next to nothing, and are very hearty filling meals. * '''Janjetina''' – Basically "lamb on a spit" can be found all along Bosnian roads and recreational places. This is a very tasty treat, usually reserved for special occasions. A whole lamb is cooked on a spit, by rotating over a coal fire for a long time. When you order, you pay by the kilogram, around 25 KM/kg. On special occasions families make such roasts at home. * '''Smoked meats''' – A staple of Bosnian cuisine, more so than the stereotypical foods of pita and cevapi. Amongst the non-Muslim populations, pork rules, and '''prosciutto''', '''smoked neck''', '''smoked ribs''', '''bacon''' and hundreds of varieties of '''smoked sausage''' make this a real BBQ country. The Muslims have equally-tasty lamb or beef alternatives. *:The meat is prepared by first curing in salt for several days, which removes water and dehydrates the meat, while the high-concentrations of salt preserve the meat from spoiling. After being rubbed with spices (includes some combination of high-quality fresh peppercorns, hot paprika, salt, onions and garlic, and a few spoons of ''Vegeta,'' a powdered chicken soup mix similar to an Oxo cube), the meat is then hung over a heavy smoke made by a wood fire. Fruit trees are well known by BBQ aficionados around the world to produce the most flavourful smoke, and apple, cherry and walnut trees are the most commonly used in Bosnia. Whereas commercially produced delicatessen meats are most often dry-cured or hung in dehydrating fridges and only then pressure-smoked for a few hours to allow some flavour to permeate the meat, Bosnian smoked meat is smoked up to three months. The meat hangs in a "smoke house," a tiny wooden shed usually only big enough to light a fire and hang the meat. Bosnians will only smoke meat in the autumn or winter, because the low temperatures, together with the salt curation, allow the meat to hang for months without spoiling. During this time, it is smoked up to 4 times a week, for 8–10 hours at a time, which infuses the meat with the flavor of the smoke and removes any remaining water. The finished product has an incredibly strong aroma and flavor of smoke, with the texture of chewy beef jerky. *:Depending on the cut of meat, the most noticeable difference between smoked meat produced this way and the commercially produced meat available in North America, is the colour inside the meat. Whereas commercial delicatessen meat is usually soft, red, a little wet and fairly raw, Bosnian smoked meat is black throughout with only a slight tinge of pink. Larger cuts of meat, like the Dalmatian prosciutto, do tend to be a bit more pink and softer inside, but the difference is still dramatic, since the Balkan-made prosciutto has much less water, is chewier and overall better smoked. Such meat is most '''often consumed at breakfast time, in sandwiches, or as meza''', a snack commonly brought out to greet guests. Smoked meats are a cheap and incredibly flavorful lunch meat, and can be bought at Bosnian marketplaces from people who usually prepare it themselves. Have a pork neck sandwich with some Bosnian smoked cheese and a salad of fresh tomatoes in a bun of fresh and crisp homemade bread, and you'll never want to leave. * '''Meza''' – A large platter of arranged smoked meats, which usually includes some type of smoked ham (in traditional non-Muslim homes) and sausage thinly cut and beautifully presented with cheese, the well-known Balkan condiment ''ajvar'', hard-boiled eggs and freshly cut tomatoes, cucumbers or other salad vegetables. And as always, bread. * '''Cheese''' – There is supposed to be a large variety, but it is hard to find. Try to find the yellow cheese in oil if you can. Both soup and salad are commonly served with entrees, chicken & beef soup with noodles or egg dumplings being the most common. The food is generally heavy on fresh produce, which needs little or '''no added spice'''. As such, there are few spicy or hot dishes, and dishes advertised as "spicy", such as stews like ''paprikas'' or ''gulash'' are usually spiced with paprika and not chillies, and do not carry overt pungency. In some regions, and depending on whether it is restaurant or home food, textures and colours can be important also. ====Light==== * '''Bread''' – No matter what food you order, you are bound to be served bread, commonly consumed throughout some parts of Europe with all savoury foods. Most cookbooks on South Slavonic cooking are packed with hundreds of varieties of breads, this being one of the most bread-crazy regions in the world. Yet, just about the only type of bread in most Bosnians' homes is the store-bought French stick, which the Bosnians would never dream of calling "French"; to them, it is simply "Hljeb" or "Kruh". :However, more of an effort is made at special occasions to produce traditional Slavonic breads, and each family usually bakes its own variation of a traditional recipe. At Christmas and Easter, Orthodox Serb and Croatian Catholic families typically make a butter-bread called ''Pogaca'', which is often braided and brushed with an egg-wash, giving it a glistening finish perfect for impressive holiday tables. During the month of Ramadan, the Bosniak (Muslim) populations bake countless varieties of breads, and the unique and Turkish-inspired varieties are generally more numerous, diverse and dependent on regions and villages than among Christian populations, where special-event recipes are more homogeneous and fewer selections exist. ''Lepinja'' or ''Somun'' (the bread served with Cevapi) is a type of flat bread, probably introduced in some form to Bosnia by the Turks, but has since developed independently and is only vaguely reminiscent of Turkish or Middle Eastern flat ''pita'' breads. Unlike the Greek or Lebanese ''pita'', the Bosnian ''Lepinja'' is chewy and stretchy on the inside and pleasantly textured on the outside, making it a perfect spongy companion to oily meats and barbecue flavors. The Turks may have begun this recipe, but the Bosnians have taken it to a new high. * '''Dolma''' – Fermented vegetables (often wine leaves) stuffed with rice and meat. * '''Salads''' – Typically composed of mixed tomatoes, lettuce, onions and bell peppers, often with feta cheese. A Caesar salad is unheard of in Bosnia, and generally most vinaigrettes are of the Italian variety, balsamic vinegar and olive or corn oil. You may also come across many condiments. * '''Ajvar''' – A canned (or home made if you are lucky) spread, something like a bruschetta spread, made of roasted peppers & aubergine (eggplant), which are ground and seasoned with pepper and salt and slow cooked. * '''Pickled vegetables''' – Served as condiments, such as pickled peppers, onions, cucumbers ("pickles"), and tomatoes. * '''Kajmak''' – A dairy spread, similar to cream cheese but with a dryer texture. It is made of milk fat, which is salted and canned. It has a smoky, salty cheese taste. Kajmak from [[Travnik]] is a local speciality and is exported as far as Australia. Bosnian food generally does not combine sweet and savoury foods, and you will never encounter such a thing as a Caesar salad with mandarin oranges. Nevertheless, many a fine chef will experiment with sweet and savoury tastes like the 'Medeno Meso' (Honeyed Meat) made in pre-war Banja Luka by a well known chef. The delineation between fruit and vegetables is strong, with fruit used only for dessert-type dishes. You will never encounter any dish where sugar is added unless it's a dessert. ====Desserts==== [[File:Boem šnita (Sarajevo).JPG|thumb|Boem šnita cake in Sarajevo]] * '''Ice cream''' – Sold in most former Yugoslav countries and with several varieties, but regional milk and cream must be a contributing factor to their wonderful taste. You can buy ice cream either by the scoop or from an iced-milk swirl machine, packaged in stores or from a street vendor. Recommended is the "Egypt Ice Creamery' in Sarajevo, famous in the region for their caramel ice cream. Also try "Ledo", a type of packaged ice cream made in Croatia but sold throughout the region. * '''Krempita''' – A type of custard/pudding dessert that tastes something like a creamy cheesecake. * '''Sampita''' – Similar to ''Krempita'', a dessert made with egg whites. * '''Hurmasice''' (''Hurme'') – A small finger-shaped wet traditional Bosnian sweet with walnuts. * '''Tulumbe''' – Also a traditional Bosnian dessert, something like a tubular doughnut, crispy on the outside and soft and sweet on the inside. * '''Tufahija''' – Another known dessert in Bosnia, which is a peeled apple with some sweet chocolate-covered walnut that sometimes is served with whipped cream on top. * '''Baklava''' – And of course, don't forget to try Bosnia's take on the world-famous sweet, which tends to be somewhat more syrupy than its Turkish counterpart and usually does not contain any rum, like its Greek counterpart. Much of the traditional cooking has Turkish undertones, a colourful consequence of six hundred years of Ottoman rule over most of Bosnia & Herzegovina, and desserts are no different. ====Fruits and vegetables==== The cuisine of the country has not yet been ruined by commercially-grown produce, most foods are (uncertified) organically or semi-organically grown, using fewer chemicals and are picked when ripe. Generally, all foods are as fresh as it gets. The vegetable markets sell only seasonal and locally-grown vegetables, and you are bound to have some of the best tasting fruit you've ever tried in the Neretva Valley region of Herzegovina (close to the Croatian border, between Mostar and Metkovic). The region is famous for peaches, mandarin oranges, peppers & tomatoes, cherries (both the sweet and the sour variety), watermelons and most Kiwi fruits. ===Where=== When you visit a Bosnian at home, the hospitality offered can be rather overwhelming. Coffee is almost always served with some home-made sweet, such as breads, cookies or cakes, together with '''meza'''. * Aščinica – A storefront restaurant serving cooked (as opposed to grilled or baked). * Buregdžinica – A place where the main dishes are filled pastries (burek, sirnica, etc.). * Cevapdzinica – Also a storefront restaurant that serves grilled Cevapi, a delicacy that is a must-try in Bosnia & Herzegovina. * Pekara – A bakery where you can buy bread and baked confectioneries. ==Drink== [[File:Bier mostar.jpg|thumb|204x204px|A beer in Mostar]] The legal drinking age in Bosnia and Herzegovina is 18 years. Popular domestic beers are Nektar (from [[Banja Luka]]), Sarajevsko, Preminger (from [[Bihać]], made according to a [[Czech Republic|Czech]] recipe) and Tuzlansko, while the most common imports are Ozujsko and Karlovačko from [[Croatia]], Jelen from [[Serbia]], and Laško and Union from [[Slovenia]]. Like in almost every European country, beer is very common and popular. Even in more heavily Islamic areas alcohol is available in abundance to those who choose to drink and almost every bar is fully stocked. Like most Slavs, Bosnians make 'Rakija' which comes in many a variety and is made both commercially and at home. Red wine is 'Crno vino' (Black wine) and white wine is 'bijelo vino'. Wines from Herzegovina are renowned for their quality. Alcohol is not taxed as heavily as in most Western nations and is often very affordable. Quality alcohol is sought after and valued. Bosnians are among the biggest coffee drinkers in the world, particularly Turkish coffee, locally called Bosnian or ''domaca'' (homemade) coffee, which can be bought in every bar, restaurant or fast food place. ==Sleep== In Bosnia and Herzegovina you can choose from the great number of hotels, hostels, motels and pensions. At the seaside town of [[Neum]] you can book hotels from 2–4 stars. In the other cities many hotels are 3 stars, 4 stars and some of them are 5 stars. In [[Banja Luka]] the best hotels are: Cezar, Palas, Bosna, Atina, Cubic and Talija. In [[Sarajevo]] the best hotels are: Hollywood, Holiday Inn, Bosnia, Saraj, Park, Grand and Astra. There are also cheap hostels available. Campsites are not very common. An overview of [[Camping|campsites]] in Bosnia is available at the national tourism agency [http://www.bhtourism.ba/download/eng/camps_in_bih.pdf] {{dead link|December 2020}}. Wild camping is often no problem, but be careful for mines. ==Work== Bosnia has one of the highest unemployment rates in Europe (around 17%), and rates of pay are somewhat low compared to other European countries—the average monthly wage is €1,000–2,000. A complex bureaucratic system, corruption, and political inefficiency mean that working conditions in Bosnia are not that ideal. ==Stay safe== ===Land mines=== {{cautionbox|Due to the constant '''landmine threat''' it is better not to leave paved roads, '''even for a pee-break''' in areas you are not familiar with. Plans are to finish the clearing in a few years, but experts estimate the work to take decades.<!-- see [[w:Land mines in Bosnia and Herzegovina]] -->| lastedit=2023-12-08 }} [[File:Minefield sign (3886691367).jpg|thumb|Land mine warning sign]] [[File:Mines BiH en.png|thumb|Map of landmines (as of 2008)]] '''Be very careful''' when travelling off the beaten path in Bosnia and Herzegovina: it is still clearing many of the estimated 5 million '''land mines''' left around the countryside during the Bosnian War of 1992–1995. Some rules: # Abide to the warning signs around everywhere # Whenever you're in rural areas, try to stay on paved areas if possible. # If an area or property looks abandoned, '''stay away from it'''. Some of the houses and private properties that were abandoned by their owners were often rigged with mines during the war, and so they still pose a threat to anyone who trespasses. # Never touch any unknown item. If you suddenly find a suspicious or unknown object, you must report it to the police, as this will help to keep locals and future visitors safe. In case you are still suspicious and want to at least get a feel for where dangers lurk, there exists a rough [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iKhNYwx14uGVKZCFUZunA6HG9SoLmGT1 map layer for OsmAnd online] based on the picture here. It is not to be relied on, but at least can give you an indication on where you are. Footpaths are free of mines, and the grass to the side of them is mostly demined but the odd mine remains in some rural areas. ===Crime=== Bosnia experiences very little violent crime. However, in the old centre of Sarajevo and in other cities such as Mostar and Banja Luka, beware of pickpockets. ===Dogs=== Bosnia has far fewer stray and street dogs than many other Eastern European countries. Just some regions seem not to adhere to this rule like Mostar and everything south of it. See [[Aggressive dogs]] for more information on how to deal with this situation. === Traffic === Traffic is probably the biggest danger in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In cities and on major roads, traffic is well regulated but the driving behaviours are still hostile. Bosnian drivers are also known to speed down small mountain roads. Roads aside from the main roads are mediocre at best, and sometimes in total state of decay. === Police controls === At the border between the ethnic regions and in cities of the Republika Srpska, random police controls are common especially for people who look like tourists or have foreign passports. The policemen often seem keen on finding illegal items as they can hope to be bribed in order to not take the interrogated person to the police station. ==Stay healthy== All Bosnian employees undergo regular health checks to ensure that they can physically do their jobs and that they will not transmit any disease or injure anyone. People in the food industry are particularly checked and random health and safety checks for the premises are held often. Food handlers and providers are held to the highest standards. Bosnian kitchens and food storehouses are expected to be sanitary and spotless and food safety is very important. '''[[Tap water]]''' is drinkable in most parts of the country, there's even "hajrli česme" or "safe travel fountains" in some parts of the country which offers drinkable water from the source of a mountain. Since the food is rich, some extra exercise may help. And as above, never walk off dedicated paths in case of land mines. ==Cope== '''Smoking''' is allowed nearly everywhere in the country, and over half the population use tobacco. Therefore, be prepared to endure very smoky restaurants, bars and shopping centres, as well as other establishments. Even bus drivers often smoke while driving. ==Respect== It is of utmost importance to respect the religious differences of the people in the region, and their effort to move past the 1990s war, as it still affects those that survived those times to this day. Be careful in areas where there is still some form of ethnic tension, and ensure that you do not offend a particular group. Avoid talking about the war, or any other controversial topic in the Balkans, such as the legitimacy of Kosovo or Republika Srpska; it's very disrespectful and you won't get any good information from doing so, since everyone tends to be biased on what they perceive to be good or bad, like most parts of the world. Muslims constitute 50–52% of the population, making Bosnia one of the few Muslim-majority countries in Europe. The form of Islam practised by the vast majority of Bosnians is '''liberal''', and it is common for Bosnian Muslims to consume alcohol and somewhat common to eat pork. Respect the environment. A lot of the country, as well as its neighbours, have been spared from pollution and it is very important to be careful of your influences. The streams and rivers tend to be fierce, the mountains and valleys often unguarded and the footing unsure. Always have a tour guide with you or consult a local for advice on the natural dangers and land mines. ==Connect== Each entity has its own '''postal service''', so stamps bought in the Federation cannot be used in the RS and vice versa. There are many '''mobile phone''' networks in Bosnia and Herzegovina, e.g.: HT ERONET (Mostar), GSMBiH (Sarajevo) and m:tel (Republika Srpska, Banja Luka) You can buy a prepaid SIM card from any network at any kiosk for 10 KM or less. Often operators offer special data only packages for tourists with a validity of 5-30 days (e.g. 30 days with 30GB for 40 KM). The activation of any Bosnian SIM card takes less than 2 minutes, no proof of identity or any other bureaucratic steps are required. Note that you can use Bosnian SIM cards in other West Balkan countries. Sometimes this requires a minimal "top up" of your call and SMS budget which you can also get at kiosks, if you know your phone number. ==Go next== The land border can be crossed to [[Croatia]], [[Montenegro]] and [[Serbia]]. {{outlinecountry}} {{isPartOf|Balkans}} {{geo|44|18|zoom=8}} 7hoss9o0b77gasjx99yzm3pbk66q2kh 0 5301 5090820 4699587 2025-07-10T13:38:57Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090820 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Falaise Etretat banner.jpg|caption=Porte d'Aval and the Needle of Étretat}} [[File:Claude Monet The Cliffs at Etretat.jpg|thumb|300px|''The Cliffs at Étretat'', Claude Monet]] '''Étretat''' is a small coastal village in [[Seine-Maritime]], [[Upper Normandy]], [[France]]. The town is nestled between the famous towering cliffs, which inspired numerous paintings by the impressionist Claude Monet. ==Understand== It is on the Alabaster Coast in Normandy. The beach is composed of stones that have been smoothed by the waves of the English Channel and the town is set just behind the beach. English is not common here, but basic French or use of a [[French phrasebook|phrasebook]] will get you by. The tourist information centre, next to the bus stop, has a lot of information about the history of the town and can direct you to the beach, a few blocks from the bus stop. Once at the beach, there are trails to hike up to either cliff. There are two large arch formations on the southwest side of the beach is one large arch on the northeast side of the beach; both are spectacular. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}} {{mapshape}} The town is quaint and picturesque, but somewhat difficult to reach because there is no train that goes to town. There are, however, main lines that go to [[Le Havre]] and Fecamp, both of which have buses that run a few times daily to Étretat. The bus ride is €2 per person per way, and the trip takes about 45 min through the countryside. Taking one of the taxis queued outside of the Le Havre train station to Étretat will cost around €60. * {{listing | name=Tourist Office | alt= | url=http://etretat.net/office-de-tourisme-etretat/modules/content/content.php?page=accueil | email= | address=Place Maurice Guillard | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 27 05 21 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-07 | content=These friendly people provide information about the bus routes, places to stay and general information about the town. }} ==Get around== The town is very compact, so walking is the easiest way to get around. Parking places are limited in the centre, but there is a free car park in a field off the D39 road which is about 15 minutes walk from the tourist office. == See == You can walk or hike from the town to the tops of the cliffs and get a commanding view of the channel, the beach and the opposite cliffs. ==Do== *{{listing | name=Les Jardins d'Étretat | alt= | url=https://etretatgarden.fr/ | email= info@etretatgarden.fr | address=Avenue Damilaville | lat= | long= | directions=Walk uphill from the town centre, the gardens are well signposted | phone= +33 2 35 27 05 76 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-19:00 | price=€14 adult, €7.50 children/handicapped, €12 students | lastedit=2023-07-19 | content=A neo-futuristic garden extending over the cliffs north of Étretat, it combines lush topiary, architecture and contemporary art installations. At the end of the 19th century, the garden was owned by French actress friend of Claude Monet, who spent many hours painting in Étretat. In 1905, inspired by the artist, she decided to create a garden at the top of the Amont cliff that would reflect Monet's work with avant-garde elements mixed with a touch of impressionism. In 2017, Alexandre Grivko, a landscape architect fascinated by this history, gave Les Jardins d'Étretat a revamp. Plant sculptures evoke the nature of the Normandy coast, while more than a hundred thousand plants provide beauty throughout the year. The goal was to bring together historical and artistic elements of the old garden and contemporary architectural ideas. }} *{{do | name=Walks | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent walks along the cliffs enables you to view the limestone cliffs and remarkable erosion. }} *{{do | name=Etretat Golf Club | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Challenging golf along the clifftops. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Hotel Dormy House | url=http://www.etretat-hotel.com | email= | address=Route du Havre | lat= | long= | directions=left off main road into Étretat from Le Havre | phone =+33 2 35 27 07 88 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€100 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Three-star hotel overlooking the bay and the town. Excellent but expensive restaurant. }} ==Go next== {{geo|49.7072|0.2075}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Etretat}} {{IsPartOf|Seine-Maritime}} {{outlinecity}} 1w3btp5ftt4vmr90gvpq62c5lw49t5a 0 5303 5090825 4423048 2025-07-10T13:39:56Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090825 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|EvreuxBanner.jpg}} '''Évreux''' is the capital of the [[Eure]] department in the [[Upper Normandy]] region of [[France]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}} {{mapshape}} Évreux can be reached directly from [[Paris]] gare Saint-Lazare by train (55 min). ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== Every summer in June, a rock music festival '''Le rock dans tout ses états''' is held at hippodrome's Évreux. ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Cafe des Arts | alt= | url= | email= | address=rue de l'Horloge 5 | lat= 49.0271919 | long=1.1502815 | directions=at city hall | phone=+33 232311252 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7:00-20:30 | price=€15 lunch menu | content=Great place to eat outside and enjoy the food and the view. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Hôtel B&B | url= | email= | address=Rue Clément Ader ZAC du Long Buisson | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +33 892 78 81 14 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=5PM | checkout=11AM | content=83 rooms, including 12 rooms designed for families. Breakfast is an additional €5.90. }} ==Connect== ==Go next== {{outlinecity}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Evreux}} {{geo|49.0242|1.1533}} {{IsPartOf|Eure}} h6342q5vgz0d0avupyc04yex9mfz93l 0 5325 5090757 5090416 2025-07-10T12:38:30Z LPfi 79572 c/e; Röda Sand to Sleep 5090757 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bruddesta banner.jpg|unesco=yes}} {{confused|[[Åland]], a group of islands in the northern Baltic Sea, associated with [[Finland]].}} '''[https://www.oland.se/en Öland]''' is [[Sweden]]'s second largest island; only [[Gotland]] is larger and of more importance. It lies in the '''Baltic Sea''' just off the coast of [[Småland]], connected to the mainland by a bridge from [[Kalmar]]. Öland is popular among domestic tourists; many Swedes have had a summer cottage here for generations. Öland can be crowded by vacationers from Midsummer to mid-August. == Understand == {{mapframe|56.80|16.69|zoom=8|width=300|height=510}} {{mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q239276}} [[File:Borgholms slott.jpg|thumb|Borgholm Castle]] Öland is rather sparsely populated, with most of the land consisting of farm land or in the north woods. The interior of the southern half is a treeless plain with short grass and herbs, ''Stora alvaret''. Much of the southern cultural landscape is a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|UNESCO World Heritage Site]]: Agricultural Landscape of Southern Öland. The island is also popular for summer vacations and among [[Bird watching|birdwatchers]] and [[Botanical tourism|amateur botanists]]. The holiday season is from 1 June to mid-August. The rest of the year very little happens outside the three largest settlements. === Settlements === * {{marker|type=city|name=Borgholm|url=|lat=56.881015|long=16.655106|wikidata=Q893554}} – Historically the major settlement on the island, with the castle and the Solliden palace. * {{marker|type=city|name=Färjestaden|url=|lat=56.649848|long=16.464556|wikidata=Q1478888}} – With some 6,000 inhabitants this is the largest community on Öland. It's on the western shore of the island, facing [[Kalmar]] on the other side of the straight. * {{marker|type=city|name=Mörbylånga|url=|lat=56.525024|long=16.386493|wikidata=Q1641531}} – A smaller community with less than 2,000 inhabitants. == Talk == While English is widely known by most Swedes, the level of English spoken in the countryside (including Öland) is noticeably lower than, for example, that spoken in Stockholm. Most tourist information signs will be in Swedish, English and German, and in rare cases Dutch or French. == Get in == ===By plane or train=== The nearest airport and railway is in [[Kalmar]], see that page. ===By car, bike or bus=== You get in by car or bus ([http://www.klt.se Kalmar Länstrafik]) from Kalmar over Ölandsbron, the longest bridge in Sweden. Biking over the bridge is prohibited. Instead take your bike on the special bike buses summertime or ordinary buses otherwise, or take the ferry. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Silverlinjen | alt= | url=https://www.silverlinjen.se | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Service to Öland from [[Stockholm]]. }} ===By ferry=== In summertime, there's a ferry from Kalmar to Färjestaden and back, on which you can bring your bike. It runs from mid-April to mid-August, from around seven in the morning until six in the evening during weekdays. Check [https://ressel.se/en/kalmarsund-traffic/h Ressel Rederi] for the current schedule. It costs 50&nbsp;kr for adults and takes about half an hour. There is a ferry from [[Oskarshamn]] to Byxelkrok (northern part of the island). ===By yacht=== {{seealso|Boating in the Baltic Sea}} Öland is a good destination for small craft. == Get around == Public transport is limited. There is no railway on Öland. and the bus routes and bus departures are relatively few, even though the situation gets a lot better during the tourist season from the beginning of June to the middle of August. Taking the bus, however, remains the most convenient way to get around on the island, since they cover most of the island and can get you within biking distance of interesting sights and beautiful beaches. Bringing a bike would be great and convenient, as passengers are allowed to bring bikes on the buses. It's also the best way to experience the unique landscape of Öland. There are very nice biking trails along the long coast of Öland. === By car === It is possible to travel by car on Öland, and in large parts of the island it is the only means of transport during the non-tourist season. However, the roads are narrow and busy during the tourist season. In the middle of the 20th century, local politicians decided that many small roads should be paved, as the autumn rains – combined with the harvest season and heavy transport – turned the roads into real seas of mud. Today, most of the roads are in very good condition. As the roads follow centuries-old routes, they pass through many villages of the terraced type and it is important to slow down. Visibility is poor and active farming contributes to the roads becoming easily blocked, especially at harvest time. When parking, it is particularly important to be considerate of other traffic because of the narrowness of the roads. The main roads often have little side extensions where tourists can park briefly to admire the farming countryside (which can be a brilliant yellow in early May when the rapeseed blooms occur) or the occasional wooden windmill used to power the farm. === By bus === [https://www.kalmarlanstrafik.se Kalmar länstrafik] is responsible for transport on the island. On northern Öland (counting from Färjestaden) there are lines 101, 103, 104 and 106. On southern Öland, but furthest to Mörbylånga, there are lines 103 and 105. South of Mörbylånga there is no bus service according to the winter timetable. You can buy a summer card that is valid for an unlimited number of journeys in June–July. Please note that many of the bus routes only run on school days. === By bike === Those who want to cycle on Öland have plenty of opportunities to do so. Bicycles can be rented and packages can be booked through the tourist office. During the summer, traffic on road 136 is very heavy, so those who want to cycle would be well advised to choose other, smaller roads. There are three main cycling routes on the island: * [http://www.cyklapaoland.se '''Ölandsleden'''] is a 45-mile signposted cycle route across the island. There are plenty of options for those wanting longer or shorter rides. * [http://www.cyklapaoland.se '''Ekoparkcykleden'''] runs through Böda Kronopark on the north of the island and is about 6.5 km (4 miles) long. * '''Sweden Trail''' is administered by the [http://www.svenska-cykelsallskapet.se Swedish Cycling Society]. The island part of this trail runs between Ölands Turistbyrå at the bridgehead up to Grankullavik. ==== Rent a bike ==== There are a number of bicycle rental companies on the island: * Bengts Cykel och Motor, Mörbylånga, +46 73 993 30 30 * Byxelkrok Bike Rental, Byxelkrok, +46 70 579 61 00 * Degerhamns Cykelverkstad, Degerhamn, +46 485 66 04 52 * Färjestadens Cykelaffär, Färjestaden, +46 485 300 74 * Hallbergs hojar, Borgholm, +46 70-514 19 37 * Hornsjön Pensionat & Restaurang, Löttorp, +46 485 210 09 * ICA, Grönhögen, +46 485-66 10 09 * Ottenby Vandrarhem o camping, Ottenby, +46 485 66 20 62 * Preem, Köpingsvik, +46 485-720 27 * Sahlbergs Cykel & Sport Eftr., Löttorp, +46 70 920 81 07 * Sandviks Café/restaurant, Sandvik, +46 485 262 70 * Solberga Gård, Köpingsvik, +46 485 726 46 == See == [[File:Olandeketorp.jpg|thumb|Eketorp fortress at Alvaret (the Southern Agricultural Landscape)]] * {{see | name=Borgholm Castle | alt=Borgholms slott | url=http://www.borgholmsslott.se/en/ | email= | address= | lat=56.870529 | long=16.643503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1589230| wikipedia= Borgholm Castle | content=Ruins of a castle burnt down in the 19th century. It is not open all year round, but you can always admire it from a distance. }} * {{see | name=Stora Alvaret | alt=Agricultural landscape of southern Öland | url= | email= | address= | lat=56.467 | long=16.55 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q202816| wikipedia= Stora Alvaret | content=The southern agricultural landscape of Öland is a [[UNESCO World Heritage site]]. It is a unique landscape with rare species and evidence of human settlements from prehistoric times. This place is often listed as one of the must-sees in Sweden by Swedish, as well as international, travel magazines. }} * {{see | name=Solliden Palace | alt= | url=http://sollidensslott.se/english-2/ | email= | address= | lat=56.866998 | long=16.636831 | directions= | phone=+46 485 153 56 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1640555| wikipedia= Solliden Palace | content=The summer residence of the Swedish Royal Family, it has a beautiful garden. }} * {{see | name=Vida Museum och Konsthall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=56.801868 | long=16.589259 | directions= | phone=+46 485 774 40 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | content=A museum and art gallery showing the works of among others Bertil and Ulrika Wallien and Ulf Trotzig. }} * {{see | name=Eketorp | alt= | url=http://www.eketorp.se | email= | address= | lat=56.295525 | long=16.484954 | directions= | phone=+46 485 66 20 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | content=An old fortification stemming from the middle ages with activities for children. }} * {{see | name=Sandby borg | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q10661138 | lastedit=2021-05-23 | content=An Iron Age ring fort. Extensive research during the 2010s has revealed that a massacre took place here in the late 5th century AD. Known as Sweden's [[Pompeii]]. }} * The villas in Borgholm have a lot of character, and it is rather entertaining to walk around and look at them. * The rock formations, called '''raukar''', on the beautiful Byerum beach. These formations have been created by natural erosion over thousands of years. If you're interested in seeing more of these 'raukar' they are even more plentiful on Sweden's largest island, [[Gotland]]. * {{see | name=Neptuni åkrar | alt="fields of Neptune" | wikidata=Q1792466 | content=A nature reserve at the Northern tip of the island, with its lighthouse (Långe Erik). }} * {{see | name=Ottenby fågelstation | alt= | url=https://www.ottenby.se/en/ | email=naturum@ottenby.se | address= | lat=56.196361 | long=16.398950 | directions=follow the county road to it's very end on the southern tip of Öland | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30168247 | content=A bird sanctuary/centre within the Ottenby Nature Reserve at the southern tip of the island, with its adjacent lighthouse Långe Jan. }} * '''Hornsjön''', the only lake on Öland. == Do == [[File:Bödabucht.JPG|thumb|Böda Sand]] * Spend a day at one of Öland's many beaches * Bike along the Öland trail (Ölandsleden), or the shorter Sweden trail (the part that runs on Öland, that is) * Spend a day or two in the beautiful town of Borgholm with its charming villas and cosy cafés. Close to the town are also the Borgholm castle and the Solliden (royal residence), which are well worth a visit. The massive castle on a hill with a stunning view of the town of Borgholm and the sea and Solliden with its beautiful architecture and gardens. * Buy pottery and other ceramics from the many skilled potters. (Paradisverkstan is one of the big, between Färjestaden and the Öland bridge. Resmo krukmakeri is also worth a trip.) * Hike on southern Öland, where there are 110 km of marked trails, some which go through Stora Alvaret. [https://www.oland.se/sites/oland/files/morbylangaleden.pdf Mörbylånga kommun]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} has maps and information on the hikes (in Swedish). * {{do | name=Blå Jungfrun National Park Tour | alt= | url=http://www.solkustturer.se/en/bla-jungfrun | email= | address=Byxelkrok ferry harbour | lat=57.327547 | long=17.006895 | directions= | phone=+46 491 77072 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-20 | content=Tours to Blå Jungfrun National Park, an island in the Kalmar Strait. From 1 July to 14 August. }} == Eat == ''Kroppkaka'' is a Småland/Öland speciality. Smoked fish is another one. ''Lufsa'', a traditional dish on Öland, is an oven-baked cake consisting of finely grated potatoes – added cream/milk, flour, egg; served with fried salt-cured bacon (''fläsk'') and lingonberry jam. Berries are usually abundant throughout the summer and early autumn. Mushrooms are plentiful in autumn. The restaurant in Hotel Borgholm has been awarded with a star in the Michelin Guide. * {{eat | name=Arontorps Kroppkakor & Mat | alt= | url=http://www.kroppkakor.se/ | email= | address=Torslunda 102 | lat= | long= | directions=A few km east of Färjestaden | phone=+46 485 388 87 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-16 | content= Swedish cuisine, with a special focus on the local dish ''Kroppkaka''. }} * {{eat | name=Kaj 4 | alt= | url=http://www.kaj4.se/ | email= | address=S. Hamnplan 4 | lat= | long= | directions=Färjestaden | phone=+46 485 310 37 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-16 | content=A cafe, restaurant and hotel in the Färjestaden harbor. }} * {{eat | name=Lammet & Grisen | alt= | url=http://www.lammet.nu/en/ | email= | address=Hornvägen 35 | lat= | long= | directions=Northern Öland | phone=+46 485 203 50 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Jun–Aug | price= | lastedit=2017-12-16 | content=Offer pork carved by the chefs in the restaurant and whole roasted lambs. }} * {{eat | name=Pappa Blå | alt= | url=http://www.xn--pappabl-kxa.se/ | email= | address=Storgatan 3 K | lat= | long= | directions=Borgholm | phone=+46 485 12501 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Seasonal | price= | lastedit=2017-12-16 | content=Pizzas and burgers. }} * {{eat | name=Slottshöjden | alt= | url=http://www.slottshojden.com | email= | address=Sollidenvägen 6 | lat= | long= | directions=Borgholm | phone=+46 485 122 77 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-16 | content=Restaurant and cafe with a view of Borgholm castle and the Borga Hage natural reserve. }} * {{eat | name=Svea | alt= | url=http://www.cafesvea.se | email= | address=Kullenvägen 12 | lat= | long= | directions=Northern Öland | phone=+46 73 974 83 38 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-16 | content=A cafe and restaurant in a beautiful villa. }} * {{eat | name=Kaffestugan | alt= | url=http://www.kaffestuganiboda.se | email=info@kaffestuganiboda.se | address=Landsvägen Böda 48, 380 74 Löttorp | lat=57.246193 | long=17.058825 | directions= | phone=+46 485 221 27 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-20 | content=Bakery, café, pizza and own coffee roasting. Seasonal opening hours. }} == Drink == [[File:Öland Gettlinge.jpg|thumb|Gettlinge grave field]] As for other vacation islands, Öland has more nightlife in summer. If you head into the larger towns, e.g. Borgholm (in particular), Färjestaden and Mörbylånga you will see a few nice restaurants and bars. The Strand Hotel in Borgholm has a great nightclub in the summer. * {{drink | name=Wannborga bränneri och vingård | alt= | url=http://wannborga.se | email= | address=Övra Vannborga by 11, 387 96 Köpingsvik | lat=56.918302 | long=16.749649 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-20 | content=Vineyard and distillery. Produces wine, whisky and gin. }} == Sleep == Öland has many privately owned cottages (''stuga'') that are rented to tourists. The cheapest periods with the best weather outside the season are the last two weeks of May. 1 June the season begins and lasts until mid-August where prices are considerably higher than the rest of the year. Look for signs with '''rum''' or '''stuga'''. === Camping === * {{do | name=Böda Sand | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=57.276131 | long=17.019307 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-16 | content=Sweden's biggest camping site with 1,350 camp sites and 125 cabins. It lies close to a beautiful beach, and its size makes it an attraction in itself. There was a reality show filmed here. }} === Hotels === * {{sleep | name=Alvaret Hotel and Hostel | alt= | url=http://www.alvaret.nu | email= | address=Marknadsvägen 6 | lat= | long= | directions=Northern Öland | phone=+46 485 206 56 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-16 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotell Borgholm | alt= | url=http://www.hotellborgholm.com/en/ | email=info@hotellborgholm.com | address=Trädgårdsgatan 15-19 | lat= | long= | directions=Borgholm | phone=+46 485 770 60 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-16 | content=The hotel restaurant has been awarded a star in the Michelin Guide. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Skansen | alt= | url=https://www.hotelskansen.com/en/ | email=info@hotelskansen.com | address=Tingshusgatan 1 | lat= | long= | directions=Färjestaden | phone=+46 485 305 30 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-16 | content=Has a sauna, spa, gym and pools. The hotel bar has Sweden's largest whiskey cellar. }} * {{sleep | name=Stora Frögården | alt= | url=http://www.storafrogarden.se/en/ | email=post@storafrogarden.se | address=Stora Frögården 12 | lat= | long= | directions=Southern Öland | phone=+46 485 363 33 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-16 | content=A hostel operated by the Swedish tourist association (STF). }} * {{sleep | name=Strand Hotell | alt= | url=https://www.strandborgholm.se/ | email=info@strandborgholm.se | address= | lat= | long= | directions=By Borgholm's guest harbor | phone=+46 485 888 88 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-16 | content= }} == Stay safe == Öland is very safe, just like the rest of the Swedish countryside. [[Severe weather]] including storms and fog can be a concern. == Go next == * [[Kalmar]] is just across the eponymous strait. {{DEFAULTSORT:Öland}} {{geo|56.7333|16.6667}} {{IsPartOf|Götaland}} {{usablecity}} enrx54kqkmu1nrgomd5qrup8xcinh6r 0 5507 5090813 4874400 2025-07-10T13:35:09Z 203.208.106.227 /* See */ Updated listing for Pont Valentré 5090813 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Cahors Wikivoyage Banner.jpg}} '''[http://www.mairie-cahors.fr/ Cahors]''' is a city in the [[France|French]] department of [[Lot]]. ==Understand== [[File:Cahors Pont Valentré.jpg|thumb|upright 1.4|Pont Valentré]] Almost entirely surrounded by water, Cahors is a lovely medieval town in a French wine region. It is a regional centre for business and culture. Cahors was a major town during the Middle Ages and saw a good deal of conflict during the Hundred Years' War. Pope John XXII was born in Cahors in 1249. Most of the city's key structures were built in the 20th century. Cahors was the starting point of stage 18 in the 2007 Tour de France. ==Get in== ===By plane=== The nearest major airports are in [[Toulouse]] and [[Rodez]]. ===By train=== The train from Paris to Cahors takes some 5 hours. ===By car=== ==Get around== ==See== * {{see | name=Boulevard Gambetta | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=As the main thoroughfare, the boulevard is a popular area. A market is held there twice a week. It is named after the popular French leader Léon Gambetta (1838–1882) who was born in Cahors.}} * {{see | name=Cathedrale Saint-Étienne de Cahors | alt=Cahors Cathedral | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Consecrated in 1119, the Roman Catholic cathedral is a Périgord style church. It is a great example of Gothic architecture. }} * {{see | name= Museum Henri-Martin | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A collection of local artifacts.}} * {{see | name=Pont Valentré | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=44.445083 | long=1.431789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1816823 | content=The reason most people visit Cahors is to see the Valentré Bridge. Built during the 14th century, it took seventy years to complete. There is a legend that the builder of the bridge made a deal with the devil to help complete it. During its restoration in the 1800s, a sculpture of the devil was added to the top of one of the three towers. The bridge is in the northwest corner of the city and known as the finest medieval fortified bridge in France. It is one of the most photographed monuments in the country and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. }} ==Do== [[File:20090806-DSC 0088 89 90-good.jpg|thumb|upright 1.5|Interior, Cathedrale Saint-Étienne de Cahors]] [[File:Cathédrale de Cahors 159714.jpg|thumb|upright 1.1|A capital (11th-12th century) of the Cathedral]] ==Buy== ==Eat== The food in Cahors is typical of Southwestern France. It is hearty and uses local produce. ==Drink== Cahors is a major producer of wine. It is mostly known for its red wine. 70% of the vineyards in France are along a narrow strip of land on each side of the Lot River between Cahors and Puy L'Eveque. Local soils are conducive to grape growing. There are 4,200 hectares (10,000 acres) of Cahors vineyards. The area produces 30 million bottles a year. ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== *[[Toulouse]] {{routebox | image1=Autoroute française 20.svg | imagesize1=50 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Paris]] | minorl1=[[Brive-la-Gaillarde]] | directionr1=S | minorr1=[[Montauban]] | majorr1=[[Toulouse]] | caption1=L'Occitane }} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|44.4483|1.4414}} {{IsPartOf|Lot}} c3xlpe7qj9js76sysyo5ds2moondv1o 5090817 5090813 2025-07-10T13:37:15Z 203.208.106.227 /* See */ Updated listing for Cathedrale Saint-Étienne de Cahors 5090817 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Cahors Wikivoyage Banner.jpg}} '''[http://www.mairie-cahors.fr/ Cahors]''' is a city in the [[France|French]] department of [[Lot]]. ==Understand== [[File:Cahors Pont Valentré.jpg|thumb|upright 1.4|Pont Valentré]] Almost entirely surrounded by water, Cahors is a lovely medieval town in a French wine region. It is a regional centre for business and culture. Cahors was a major town during the Middle Ages and saw a good deal of conflict during the Hundred Years' War. Pope John XXII was born in Cahors in 1249. Most of the city's key structures were built in the 20th century. Cahors was the starting point of stage 18 in the 2007 Tour de France. ==Get in== ===By plane=== The nearest major airports are in [[Toulouse]] and [[Rodez]]. ===By train=== The train from Paris to Cahors takes some 5 hours. ===By car=== ==Get around== ==See== * {{see | name=Boulevard Gambetta | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=As the main thoroughfare, the boulevard is a popular area. A market is held there twice a week. It is named after the popular French leader Léon Gambetta (1838–1882) who was born in Cahors.}} * {{see | name=Cathedrale Saint-Étienne de Cahors | alt=Cahors Cathedral | url= | email= | address= | lat=44.447222 | long=1.443056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q847628 | content=Consecrated in 1119, the Roman Catholic cathedral is a Périgord style church. It is a great example of Gothic architecture. }} * {{see | name= Museum Henri-Martin | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A collection of local artifacts.}} * {{see | name=Pont Valentré | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=44.445083 | long=1.431789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1816823 | content=The reason most people visit Cahors is to see the Valentré Bridge. Built during the 14th century, it took seventy years to complete. There is a legend that the builder of the bridge made a deal with the devil to help complete it. During its restoration in the 1800s, a sculpture of the devil was added to the top of one of the three towers. The bridge is in the northwest corner of the city and known as the finest medieval fortified bridge in France. It is one of the most photographed monuments in the country and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. }} ==Do== [[File:20090806-DSC 0088 89 90-good.jpg|thumb|upright 1.5|Interior, Cathedrale Saint-Étienne de Cahors]] [[File:Cathédrale de Cahors 159714.jpg|thumb|upright 1.1|A capital (11th-12th century) of the Cathedral]] ==Buy== ==Eat== The food in Cahors is typical of Southwestern France. It is hearty and uses local produce. ==Drink== Cahors is a major producer of wine. It is mostly known for its red wine. 70% of the vineyards in France are along a narrow strip of land on each side of the Lot River between Cahors and Puy L'Eveque. Local soils are conducive to grape growing. There are 4,200 hectares (10,000 acres) of Cahors vineyards. The area produces 30 million bottles a year. ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== *[[Toulouse]] {{routebox | image1=Autoroute française 20.svg | imagesize1=50 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Paris]] | minorl1=[[Brive-la-Gaillarde]] | directionr1=S | minorr1=[[Montauban]] | majorr1=[[Toulouse]] | caption1=L'Occitane }} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|44.4483|1.4414}} {{IsPartOf|Lot}} 2s9k50qgjn0322s0el7mhb57jlf6ocg 0 5710 5090767 5090427 2025-07-10T12:46:59Z LPfi 79572 c/e 5090767 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Camino de Santiago banner.jpg|caption=The Camino in La Rioja, between Nájera and Santo Domingo De La Calzada}} The '''French Way''' or '''Camino Francés''', also colloquially called the '''French Camino''' is the most popular of the pilgrimage routes to [[Santiago de Compostela]] in Spain, known collectively as the [[Camino de Santiago]]. Each year, about half of the pilgrims that finish walking the Camino at Santiago de Compostela walk along the French Way, 65 percent of which start from the final 100 km at [[Sarria]] and another 14 percent from the official start of the route at [[Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port]] in France, which gives the path its name, 779 km away. While there are many stopping points along each route, none are mandatory; the ultimate goal is to walk to Santiago de Compostela while resting as needed. The stopping points listed will vary for each peregrino, just as each peregrino's experience will be different. The route listings are by no means complete, but are an attempt to share information about the possibilities. One may start at any point along the route; to get a ''compostela'' certificate, one must walk at least 100 km or bike at least 200 km, regardless of how long it takes to cover the distance. ==Understand== This itinerary follows the Camino de Santiago from [[Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port]], near the French-Spanish border, to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in [[Galicia]], northwestern Spain, the final destination of many pilgrimage routes. Several longer routes originate in France and merge at Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port or Puente La Reina; see [[Routes to Santiago de Compostela from France]] for details. Other routes merge into the French Way at several point along the route. Major pilgrimage routes to Santiago, in addition to the French Way, include the [[Camino de Santiago#The Northern Way|Northern Way]], which runs closer to the coast, and the [[Portuguese Way]], which approaches from the south. Tradition has it that the remains of the apostle Saint James are buried in the cathedral, after his body was taken to Galicia by boat from [[Jerusalem]] and carried inland to where Santiago de Compostela is now located. The pilgrimage is believed by some to be one of three pilgrimages for which the sins of the pilgrim will be forgiven. While it has for long been popular for the religious pilgrims for being one of the few accessible routes from the rest of continental Europe, its popularity has been amplified by its depiction in many forms of entertainment, such as ''The Way'' (2010) starting Martin Sheen and Paulo Coelho's ''The Pilgrimage'' (1987), enticing many non-religious to also take the walk. The number of hikers generally fluctuates between years and during the year, with the most popular period being April–October, when the weather is warm and reasonably comfortable. During a designated Jacobean Holy Year, you will need a little more effort or time ahead to search for accommodation, especially if you are expected to arrive in Santiago de Compostela around July 25th, the feast day of Saint James. [[File:Number of pilgrims on the Camino Frances.svg|thumb|500px|Number of pilgrims on the Camino Frances]] The section between Sarria and Santiago is by far the most crowded of all ''Caminos de Santiago''. If you want to have it less crowded, hike in February (9⁰C/3⁰C), March (13⁰C/4⁰C), April (15⁰C/6⁰C), October (18⁰C/9⁰C) or November (13⁰C/6⁰C). (daytime/night and morning). In 2024, a record number of more than 230,000 people were registered at the pilgrim's office in Santiago de Compostela as completing their journey through the French Way, 65 percent of whom walked just the last 100 km. For general information on the pilgrimage, see [[Camino de Santiago]]. To earn the ''compostela'' (certificate of accomplishment), one needs to walk at least the last 100 km or cycle at least the last 200 km of the route. For walking the French Way, that means in practical terms starting in the small city of [[Sarria]], as it has connections by bus and rail from other places in Spain. ==Prepare== This walk from the French border to Santiago de Compostela on the main routes of the French Way takes about a month. Speed-hikers can make it in as little as two weeks (about the time bicyclists usually require), but that requires walking 40 km or more each day. While most of the route is fairly gentle with only a few long ascents, some days can be challenging. Over the past twenty years a great deal of effort has gone into improving the trail, and most of the route is now well waymarked, reasonably well surfaced, and separated from the increasingly heavy traffic on Spanish roads. If one begins in France, the route passes over two major mountain chains and several smaller ones. There is a joke that the Camino never meets a mountain it doesn't cross. While that is not really true, there are many ascents and descents, and some of the latter can be quite steep. You have to be in reasonably good condition and to have good hiking shoes (trail runners). If you wish to camp, you need to carry clothing and a sleeping bag in a comfortable backpack. As all of the journey involves [[Hiking|walking]] or [[Tour cycling|cycling]] to a very good distance while staying in rudimentary hostels, most pilgrims would usually travel in [[Packing for a week of hiking|backpacker style]]. Have a couple of snacks (or protein bars) and plenty of water with you. Don’t bring too many clothes (you can wash and dry them overnight at most lodgings) but add a layer when the weather gets cool. A [[Travel photography|camera]] is highly recommended to capture some fascinating spots along the way or even memories with a fellow pilgrim you just met, but leave your laptop or tablet at home to avoid distractions and unnecessary weight. === Finding your way === The routes are divided into sections connecting the largest cities along the way. The paths are marked by a yellow shell or arrow on a blue background, with descending numbers indicating the remaining walking distance to Santiago de Compostela. The direction of travel is indicated by the yellow shell or arrow. In the Pyrenees however, signs are surprisingly scarce. The pilgrim's office at St. Jean-Pied-de-Port will give pilgrims a map showing the path. If in doubt, follow where most people would be heading. === Sleep === Compared to the other routes of the Camino de Santiago, the French Way offers the most options for accommodations. During the most crowded travel times in summer, when all options are open, you are usually no less than 10 km (typically a two-hour walk) away from a village with a place to stay. Walking in winter requires some careful planning, but the biggest villages, where most pilgrims stop, would almost always have a bed. Unless you plan to camp in the most crowded months of the summer season, it is unnecessary to carry camping and cooking gear. "Wild camping" is illegal in most parts of Spain, and very few official campsites are to be found along the route. See also [[Camino de Santiago#Sleep]]. Most pilgrims stay in hostels (called ''albergues'' or ''refugios'') at little cost; many of these require credentials, the ''pilgrim's passport'', which you should get at the start of your journey. The most common stop points usually have municipal hostels with basic facilities in a shared room, some of which have more than one hundred beds. Some of them also have basic kitchen for self-catering. There are also parochial hostels that also offer the same amenities, sometimes with upgraded experience such as a community dinner and/or breakfast, all for a generous donation. The next category are private hostels that are a little more expensive. They usually offer a range of services, from dinner for an additional fee, better beds, blankets for cold nights, to washing machines. Some of these are also attached to their restaurant for other non-overnight patrons to stop by. Here, private rooms are also sometimes offered in addition to common sleeping halls. If you want guaranteed privacy, a private room in a pension, hostal ([[Spain#Sleep|sic!]]), or hotel is the right choice; these are a bit more limited to common stop points as described in guide books, and the largest towns. ==Get in== [[File:The Camino Frances.svg|thumb|200px|Arrival and departure by plane for the Camino Frances]] The official route begins at St. Jean-Pied-de-Port in France, accessible by most of the [[routes to Santiago de Compostela from France]] and train from [[Bayonne]]. Bayonne has a TGV service from [[Paris]]' [[Paris/14th arrondissement#Q631114|Gare Montparnasse]] and an overnight train from [[Paris/13th arrondissement#Q734017|Gare Austerlitz]]. If flying onto [[Biarritz]], you can take the bus to Bayonne train station or use a shuttle service by [https://www.expressbourricot.com Express Bourricot]. If coming from Spain, there's a bus service from [[Pamplona]] to Biarritz and Bayonne by [https://www.alsa.com/en/web/bus/home alsa] in spring through early fall. Most towns in Spain along the way are easily accessible by train or bus from major cities such as [[Madrid]] and [[Barcelona]]. Roncesvalles, steeped in history and the site of the defeat and death of Charlemagne's lieutenant Roland, is a usual starting-point for Spaniards. The routes from Somport, [[Jaca]] and [[Barcelona]] also join the French Way at Puente la Reina. [[Sarria]] is reasonably well-connected, with coach and train connections via [[Santiago de Compostela]], [[A Coruña]], [[Vigo]], [[Ourense]] or [[Lugo]]. There are airports in [[Porto]], Santiago, A Coruña and Vigo. ==Walk== {{mapframe|42.369|-5.068|zoom=7|width=100%|center}} {{mapshape|type=geoline|wikidata=Q1029584|stroke=#000000|stroke-width=3|title=French way}} Once on the Camino, the pedestrian pilgrim has three duties: to sleep, to eat, and to walk. Those duties are made less onerous by paying attention to the quality of the path and a great number of places to eat and sleep. It is also possible to walk the Camino with various travel companies that take care of all logistical arrangements, including organizing your luggage transfer, allowing you significantly more comfort. The towns listed in this article are those that have multiple accommodation options. [[File:Roncesavalles.JPG|thumb|250px|Santiago Chapel at Roncesvalles]] [[File:Camino Frances Food Donation.jpg|thumb|300px|On certain points there are stands with a generous food donation]] ===Saint Jean Pied de Port to Pamplona=== ; Distance : 67 km The official start of the French Camino is at '''{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port]]|wikidata=Q270294}}''' in France, hence there are multiple options for hostels (''gite''), restaurants, and shops for hiking supplies. There is a pilgrim's office where you can obtain your ''credencial'', a sheet of paper in which you can put a stamp in the brackets to indicate the places you stopped by every day along the way. The officer will also give an up-to-date list of accommodations along the route, and a map for travel through the Pyrenees. There are two routes you can take through the Pyrenees, both approximately 24 km long. The most popular route is the ''Napoleon Pass'' with a strenuous through-climb from 300 m to 1400 m in 15 km, usually finished in 4 to 5 hours before a descent that takes 1 to 2 hours. Pilgrims who wish to break down the hike into two days can stay in Refuge Orisson, 8 km up as well as the Auberge Borda, the only two accommodation options in the mountains. At its highest point, halfway through the hike, you will see a vast meadow with farm animals such as horses and sheeps roaming out of their farm looking for pasture. You will also see a statue of the Virgin Mary ahead, where you will then take the road on the right. After 3 km, when seeing the Cross of Thibault, take the route on the right on the grass. As you enter an area with taller trees and a water spring, you will be entering Spain and start a sharp descent towards '''{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Roncesvalles]]|wikidata=Q917891}}''', where most pilgrims will stay for the night. From November to March, or during inclement weather when the Napoleon Route is impassable, the ''Valcarlos Pass'' is the alternative route. It has a lower elevation and passes through {{Marker|type=city|name=Valcarlos|wikidata=Q120171018}}. The route begins at the right fork of the junction just outside Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port Roncesvalles is the most popular starting point for Spanish pilgrims. There is a municipal hostel (''albergue'') in a former monastery, which can house close to 200 pilgrims. In peak season however, pilgrims would spill over to the next villages of {{Marker|type=city|name=Auritz‑Burguete|wikidata=Q5431}} and {{Marker|type=city|name=Espinal|wikidata=Q476985}}. From here, the route alternates between forests and highway, meandering through the two aforementioned villages. Just before reaching the next village, {{Marker|type=city|name=Bizkarreta-Gerendiain|wikidata=Q640157}}, the trail is cut by a small stream flooding its surface, with a path of high structures accessible from the path shoulder if you do not want to get your footwear wet. From the last village, the way cuts through the forest again, with a slight gain in elevation, until it crosses the highway again at Alto de Erro. From here, the descent is steep with loose rocks and jagged humps. Caution is necessary when traversing this section, even with a hiking stick. Fortunately, the road evens out at '''{{Marker|type=city|name=Zubiri|wikidata=Q227578}}''', a major stop with multiple accommodation options, including a municipal albergue. You would have already walked 22 km from Roncesvalles. The trail continues on the left side of the valley, at first through a magnesium processing plant, and then a couple villages. A couple accommodation alternatives can be found in {{Marker|type=city|name=Urdaitz|wikidata=Q3552259}} or {{Marker|type=city|name=Larrasoaña|wikidata=Q641827}}, which would require you to walk a bit off the trail in the direction of the highway. The trail now goes alongside the river Arga, before crossing the highway again to the other side of the valley at {{Marker|type=city|name=Zabaldika|wikidata=Q136705}}. If the albergue is open and a volunteer is standing by, you can climb up its church tower and ring the bell. The trail then ascents on a foothill with stairs. You will then be at Pampl and the river Ulzama into {{Marker|type=city|name=Villava|wikidata=Q600671}}, slowly but surely leading to '''{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Pamplona]]|wikidata=Q10282}}'''. Although unlikely, in case you don't get a place, there is also an albergue operated by the Military Order of Malta in the following town, {{Marker|type=city|name=Cizur Menor|wikidata=Q641816}}'''.''' Many pilgrims would plan to rest the following day, using the opportunity to do a light walk while exploring the town. Naturally you can stay for only one night and do a stroll before bedtime. Or if you are trying to escape from cityscapes, you can always skip it. * {{listing | type = sleep | name = Refuge Orisson | lat = 43.1087766404 | long = -1.23919314585 | url = https://refuge-orisson.com | address = D428, 64220 Uhart-Cize | directions = Located 8 km uphill from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port on the GR 65 (Route Napoléon). | phone = +33 6 81 49 79 56 | email = info@refuge-orisson.com | content = A popular pilgrim refuge at 780 m elevation. Offers dormitories (6- and 10-person rooms) and limited private chalets. Half-board required (dinner + breakfast), laundry service, Wi-Fi, and bar with terrace. Booking essential in peak season. Open roughly April to October. | price = Dormitory with half-board: €45–50. Private chalet (2 people, half-board): €120 | lastedit = 2025-06-19 }} * {{listing | type = sleep | name = Auberge Borda | lat = 43.101408496 | long = -1.23885399739 | url = https://www.aubergeborda.com | address = D428, 64220 Saint-Michel | directions = On the GR 65, halfway between Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and Roncesvalles. | phone = +33 6 61 92 97 43 | email = aubergeborda@gmail.com | content = Cozy off-grid mountain refuge offering dorm beds and a private room. Half-board only (dinner and breakfast). Booking recommended. | price = Dorm with half-board: €42–48; private room: €100–120 | lastedit = 2025-06-19 }} ===Pamplona to Logroño=== ; Distance : 95 km The way out of Pamplona is long, passing the lands of Pamplona fort and University of Navarra. But you will get back to farms and small villages after about a 5-km walk. After {{Marker|type=city|name=Zariquiegui|wikidata=Q147965}}, you will gently ascend a hill, with a row of wind turbines that can be noisy at times if the wind is really blowing up there. [[File:Alto del perdon 2.jpg|thumb|250px|Alto del Perdón]] At the peak of the hill, you will see the '''{{Marker|type=see|name=Alto del Perdón|wikidata=Q443589}}''' ("Mount of Forgiveness"), an iconic spot with metal structures of parading pilgrims erected in 1996. It symbolizes the groups roaming the route throughout history, starting from the pioneers on the left, tradesmen on horseback in the Middle Ages, a gap of dwindling interest in the Camino for five centuries, and ending with backpackers today on the right. Also inscribed within the structure is a Spanish phrase, ''"Donde se cruza el camino del viento con el de las estrellas."'' ("Where the path of the wind crosses with that of the stars."). The descent to the other side of the hill however is once again covered with rocks and requires some caution to navigate. The village of {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Uterga]]|wikidata=Q24012354}} greets you a kilometre away from the foothill, followed by {{Marker|type=city|name=Obanos|wikidata=Q24012397}}, and ended with '''{{Marker|type=city|name=Puente La Reina|wikidata=Q372556}}'''. The trail goes over the bridge that gives the town its name ("the queen's bridge" – ordered by her in the 11th century for the convenience of pilgrims) and continues on a dirt road through the villages of {{Marker|type=city|name=Mañeru|wikidata=Q24012416}}, {{Marker|type=city|name=Cirauqui|wikidata=Q24012476}} atop a hill, {{Marker|type=city|name=Lorca|wikidata=Q535136}}, and {{Marker|type=city|name=Villatuerta|wikidata=Q24012348}}. Most pilgrims would end the day in '''{{Marker|type=city|name=Estella|wikidata=Q646620}}''' or the following village, {{Marker|type=city|name=Ayegui|wikidata=Q24012501}}, after a 22 km walk. The former features a wonderful example of Romanesque architecture, with narrow halls and a church atop the hill offering a beautiful view of the city centre nestled by the Ega River. [[File:Fuente del vino, Monasterio de Irache - Ayegui.jpg|thumb|250px|Fuente del vino, Monasterio de Irache - Ayegui]] Just out of Ayegui, you will pass Irache with its infamous '''{{Marker|type=see|name=wine fountain|wikidata=Q4936461}}'''. While you can take out wine for free, the fountain also gives out water. The adjacent monastery is large and also worth stopping by. Just outside town, the route splits into two branches: The main route follows the road and passes {{Marker|type=city|name=Villamayor de Monjardín|wikidata=Q24012349}} with a castle atop a hill in 6 km. The other branch takes you to the other side of the highway to {{Marker|type=city|name=Luquin|wikidata=Q24012417}} under normal trail conditions. In both cases, be aware that there is no water source or shade for about 10 km until the next big village, '''{{Marker|type=city|name=Los Arcos|wikidata=Q742713}}'''. Beyond Los Arcos, villages are fewer and further between, again with no shades to protect against the sun and wind. The next one, {{Marker|type=city|name=Sansol|wikidata=Q120172070}} is 6 km away. Across the river, {{Marker|type=city|name=Torres del Río|wikidata=Q23991219}} has an octagonal church that models the Holy Seculptre of Jerusalem. The trail then goes through hills and olive gardens before rejoining the motor highway until {{Marker|type=city|name=Viana|wikidata=Q101002825}} in 10 km. Leaving Viana, you will be exiting Navara and entering La Rioja, with its landmark vineyards strewn along the trail. In another 10 km, you reach the next big town on the French Way, '''{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Logroño]]|wikidata=Q14325}}'''. ===Logroño to Burgos=== ; Distance : 122 km [[File:Santo Domingo de la Calzada-06-Huehnerkaefig-1996-gje.jpg|thumb|250px|Henhouse at Santo Domingo de la Calzada cathedral]] A majority of the trail cuts through farms and vineyards, offering little shade in case of hot weather. Bring plenty of water and possibly plan for some more breaks on your day than in the previous sections. The way out of Logroño is long, taking almost 3 km. Nature begins once passing under the highway, as the path leads to Grajera Park. About 5 km later, after walking along the highway, the next village, {{Marker|type=city|name=Navarrete|wikidata=Q134985458}} is upon you. Do not miss the cathedral with its golden Baroque altarpiece, a rarity in Spanish churches. Out of Navarette, there are two villages with accommodations that require a slight detour: {{Marker|type=city|name=Sotés|wikidata=Q120171139}} and {{Marker|type=city|name=Ventosa|wikidata=Q23991956}}. The next large town, '''{{Marker|type=city|name=Nájera|wikidata=Q776113}}''' lies directly on the route, 16 km away. The monastery at the other side of the river is one of the important sights on the Camino, and a path atop the red hill offers a wonderful view of the Najerilla river valley. The path out of Najera begins as a moderate ascent that cuts through its hills before levelling out into fields and vineyards. Take a rest at {{Marker|type=city|name=Azofra|wikidata=Q24012953}} as the next village, {{Marker|type=city|name=Cirueña|wikidata=Q24012929}} is 9 km away after that and only has a restaurant at the golf course when you enter. The next large town where most pilgrims would stay, '''{{Marker|type=city |name=[[Santo Domingo de la Calzada]] |wikidata=Q24012862}}''' is only about an hour's walk away, after a walk through vast wheatfields. The cathedral is unique in that there are two live chickens guarding the church. According to legend, the saint who gives the town its name saved the life of an innocent who had been unfairly sentenced to death by presenting a resurrected cooked chicken to the local governor for lunch. Its descendants live in its choir loft and the adjacent municipal albergue. Some pilgrims continue their journey to {{Marker|type=city|name=Grañón|wikidata=Q24012914}}, where in addition to normal accommodation, there is a famous parochial albergue that serves pilgrims for a donation and offers a chance to contribute to the dinner service and common activities. Passing Grañón, you will enter a marker of the next autonomous state, Castilla y Leon, where the Camino will stretch almost 400 km long. The first villages you encounter will be {{Marker|type=city|name=Redecilla del Camino|wikidata=Q24010396}} and {{Marker|type=city|name=Castildelgado|wikidata=Q134985498}}. The nearest major town is '''{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Belorado]]|wikidata=Q536682}}'''. Out of Belorado, the trail is relatively uneventful with a few villages in between until {{Marker|type=city|name=Villafranca-Montes de Oca|wikidata=Q23991992}}. After this village, a 250-m ascent in 3 km awaits you, leading through a mountain range with a gentle descent for 9 km towards the next village, '''{{Marker|type=city|name=San Juan de Ortega|wikidata=Q3471530}}'''. Thankfully, this area has tall trees as shades and there are rest points at its peak, with a magnificent view in good weather. The way after San Juan de Ortega has two options that ends at the next large town, Burgos: the left fork runs through asphalt and is more suitable for bicyclists, the right fork goes through more villages with better attractions. The village of {{Marker|type=city|name=Agés|wikidata=Q399630}} is a worthwhile place to take a break. The following village, {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Atapuerca]]|wikidata=Q31912798}} is famous for its archeological site, where bones of what would be the oldest human settlements of Western Europe at 800,000 years old were found. To the left of the path as you enter town is a monolith commemorating the death of the last king of Navarra in 1054 after a battle against the Castilian kingdom. Another mountain range, although not as strenuous of a hike as before, is right ahead. At the Atapuerca cross, Burgos is visible in good weather. Down the hill, you will pass through more villages, such as {{Marker|type=city|name=Cardeñuela Riopico|wikidata=Q24002470}} and {{Marker|type=city|name=Orbaneja Riopico|wikidata=Q23994136}}. The entrance to {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Burgos]]|wikidata=Q9580}} can be done in two ways from the junction just after the highway bridge: the left fork spans along the airport runway and after another crossing under the highway, into the city park along River Arlanzon. The right fork is straightforward and goes through the city's industrial area for at least 5 km. Burgos is a large town and a good place for a rest day as there are opportunities for local exploration. ===Burgos to León=== ; Distance : 181 km [[File:Castrojeriz-04-2001-gje.jpg|thumb|250px|You cannot miss seeing the castle as you enter Castrojeriz!]] You will walk on the ''Meseta'', a vast plateau about 200 km long with little topographic difference. From spring to midsummer, the area is green and colourful with sprouting wheat and crops; after harvest season in August, the area is plain brown, exposing the barren ground. Due to the absence of shades during the first half of the trail, there is no protection from the sun and heat in summer, as well as wind and rain in winter. The villages are fewer and further between compared to the other sections, although it is in general still manageable to walk in your typical distance of 20 to 25 km per day. Pilgrims have polarizing opinions about this section. Many find it trying and choose to take the bus directly to León. Others consider it their favorite part of the French Camino and see it as a chance to reflect or to build deeper friendships with fellow pilgrims amid the monotony. To rejoin the trail from Burgos, cross the Malatos bridge to the other side of the river, pass by the Huelgas Monastery and University of Burgos. Crossing under the rail bridge and over the river & highway, you will encounter the first town on the Meseta, {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Tardajos]]|wikidata=Q24010345}}. Another river crossing leads you to {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Rabé de las Calzadas]]|wikidata=Q24010398}}. The trail ascends slowly but surely to the ''Matamulos'' (lit. mule killer) lookout point, overlooking {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Hornillos del Camino]]|wikidata=Q958987}}. You would have walked 20 km, but if you wish to walk a little bit further or look for an alternative accommodation, {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Hontanas]]|wikidata=Q959026}} is 'only' 11 km away and has more options. The trail then meanders away from the main road, separated by a creek, before stretching along the road. It then passes through a cavernous ruin of the former {{Marker|type=see|name=Convent of St. Anton|lat=42.29185|long=-4.09945}}, used to treat pilgrims and patients of ergotism and now houses an albergue. A short walk thereafter, you will arrive at {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Castrojeriz]]|wikidata=Q255845}}, one of two substantial towns in the Meseta. Leaving Castrojeriz, the trail crosses the Puente Fitero, an old stone bridge spanning the Pisuerga River, marking the boundary between Burgos and Palencia provinces. Shortly after, you arrive at {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q664582|name=Itero del Castillo}}. The town itself is small, but just south of the bridge lies the Hospital of San Nicolás, a unique pilgrim hostel in a 12th-century hermitage where you are welcomed with a traditional foot-washing ritual and candlelit dinner. From Itero del Castillo, a flat 10 km walk brings you to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q592699|name=Boadilla del Camino}}, a small town known for its well-preserved rollo judicial, a medieval column that once symbolized the town’s legal independence. If stopping for the night, the albergue En el Camino offers comfortable lodging with dinner and breakfast options. The next stretch of 6 km follows the Canal de Castilla, one of Spain’s most significant hydraulic engineering projects from the 18th century. The tranquil, tree-lined path leads directly into {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q988834|name=[[Frómista]]}}, where the striking Iglesia de San Martín, a perfect example of pure Romanesque architecture, is worth a visit. Leaving Frómista, the trail follows a mix of dirt paths and quiet roads for 19 km to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q24012217|name=Carrión de los Condes}}, one of the larger towns on this stage. With a rich monastic history, it has several historic churches, including Santa María del Camino and San Zoilo, now a luxurious hotel. This is also a great spot to restock supplies before entering the long, isolated stretch ahead. The 23 km from Carrión de los Condes to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q956367|name=Ledigos}} is one of the most demanding sections, following a historic Roman road with little shade or services along the way. Ledigos offers a welcoming stop with La Morena, a private albergue known for its hospitality. A relatively easy 17 km walk brings you to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q821860|name=[[Sahagún]]}}, a town with deep historical roots and significant Moorish and Romanesque influences. Highlights include the Church of San Lorenzo and San Tirso, both featuring distinctive brick architecture. Sahagún is also a major milestone on the Camino, marking the geographic halfway point to Santiago. From Sahagún, the Camino continues another 10 km to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q26637|name=Bercianos del Real Camino}}, a small village known for its traditional adobe houses. Many pilgrims choose to push on to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q748894|name=Mansilla de las Mulas}}, 27 km further, where there are more services and accommodations. Mansilla has a well-preserved medieval wall and is a good place to rest before the final approach to León. The last stretch from Mansilla de las Mulas to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q15699|name=León}}, a distance of 19 km, follows a relatively straightforward path through small villages before reaching the city outskirts. Once in León, the grand Catedral de Santa María de León, an architectural masterpiece of Gothic design, dominates the skyline. The city offers a wealth of historical sites, vibrant tapas culture, and a great opportunity for a rest day before continuing the journey westward. * {{sleep | name=Hospital of San Nicolas Church | alt=Ermita de San Nicolas de Puente Fitero | lat=42.2789274 | long=-4.2433031 | directions=south of town just south of Puente Fitero | checkout=wake-up by candlelight at dawn | price=donation | lastedit=2022-03-31 | content=A 12th-century hermitage operated by an Italian confraternity. Unique albergue run in 12th-century fashion with no electricity. Dinner is served to pilgrims staying here. }} * {{sleep | name=En el Camino | url=http://www.boadilladelcamino.com | email=albergue@boadilladelcamino.com | address=Calle Francos 3 | lat=42.25846 | long=-4.34656 | phone=+34 979 810 284 | price=€10 per night, dinner €11, breakfast €3 | lastedit=2022-04-08 }} * {{sleep | name=La Morena | url=https://alberguelamorena.com | email=info@alberguelamorena.com | address=C. Carretera, 3 | lat=42.3547 | long=-4.8655 | phone=+34 626 972 118 | checkin=13:00 | checkout=09:00 | price=€15 per night | lastedit=2022-03-21 | content=Private albergue. }} ===León to Sarria=== ; Distance : 206 km [[File:Astorga Stadtbild verkl.jpg|thumb|The wall, cathedral (obscured) and episcopal palace of Astorga]] The Camino Frances cuts the suburbs of León for a long time before splitting into two branches just after {{Marker|type=city|name=La Virgen del Camino|wikidata=Q3213845}}: the main way goes along the asphalt road through an industrial area with more accommodation options at {{Marker|type=city|name=Villadangos del Páramo|wikidata=Q918080}} and {{Marker|type=city|name=San Martin del Camino|wikidata=Q2219810}}. The alternative way is longer but goes through nature, with the main village being {{Marker|type=city|name=Villar de Mazarife|wikidata=Q3559051}}. The main and alternative ways merge at {{Marker|type=city|name=Hospital de Órbigo|wikidata=Q848293}}, where the trail crosses over Puente de Órbigo, a medieval bridge that played a key role in the Reconquista. From here, the way splits again into two branches: the main way is straight along the motorway, while the natural way goes through more hills and some more villages with accommodation options. They meet again at the Crucero de Santo Toribio and the camino continue to {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Astorga]]|wikidata=Q465078}}, 49 km from León, where pilgrims can admire the Episcopal Palace, designed by Antoni Gaudí and housing a museum to the camino, and the grand {{Marker|type=see|name=Cathedral of Astorga|wikidata=Q2942496}}. From Astorga, the Camino begins a steady ascent into the mountains of {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q657335|name=Foncebadón}}, 25 km away. Once a ghost town, it has been revitalized by the growing number of pilgrims passing through. A short distance from the village is the famous {{Marker|type=do|name=Cruz de Hierro|alt=Cruz de Ferro|lat=42.4888641|long=-6.3614748|wikidata=Q1142136}}, the highest point of the Camino Francés. Here, it is customary to leave a stone brought from home as a symbolic gesture of leaving one’s burdens behind. Descending from the mountains, the Camino reaches {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q12164|name=Ponferrada}} after 28 km. The city is known for its Templar Castle, a well-preserved fortress built by the Knights Templar. Ponferrada is the last major city before Galicia, making it a good place to restock supplies or take a short break. Continuing westward, a scenic 27 km walk through vineyards and rolling hills leads to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q848300|name=Villafranca del Bierzo}}, often called the “Little Compostela” due to its Iglesia de Santiago, where ill pilgrims could receive the same indulgence as if they had reached Santiago. The town is nestled in a valley surrounded by lush greenery, offering a tranquil setting before the climb into Galicia. The Camino follows the valley floor for 10 km to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q842698|name=Trabadelo}}, a small village with the cosy Albergue Casa Susi, a donation-based stay run by friendly hosts. The next 8 km leads to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q918084|name=Vega de Valcarce}}, where Albergue El Paso offers comfortable lodging before the steep climb ahead. The ascent into Galicia begins in earnest with the challenging 19 km stretch to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q503695|name=O Cebreiro}}, one of the most picturesque villages on the Camino. This ancient Celtic settlement is known for its pallozas, round stone houses with thatched roofs, and its Santa María la Real church, where the Holy Grail of Galicia is kept. A meal at Venta Celta is a great way to recharge after the climb. Descending from O Cebreiro, the trail continues for 23 km to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q636874|name=Triacastela}}, where pilgrims must choose between two routes: the scenic San Xil route or the historic Samos route, passing by the Monastery of Samos, one of the oldest monasteries in Spain. Both lead towards {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q174833|name=[[Sarria]]}}, the final major stop before Santiago. * {{eat | name=Venta Celta | address=Estrada do Cebreiro a Zanfoga 19 | lat=42.7075669 | long=-7.0445981 | phone=+34 667 553 006 | lastedit=2022-04-18 }} * {{sleep | name=Albergue Casa Susi | url=https://www.facebook.com/alberguecasasusi/ | email=alberguecasasusi@gmail.com | address=25 Calle Camino Santiago, Trabadelo Spain 24523 | lat=42.6486933 | long=-6.8795749 | phone=+34 675 24 21 14 | price=Donativo, dinner €9 | lastedit=2022-03-12 | content=12 beds }} * {{sleep | name=Albergue El Paso | url=http://www.albergueelpaso.es/ | email=info@albergueelpaso.es | address=Antigua Carretera Nacional VI 6 | lat=42.6652 | long=-6.9475 | phone=+34 628 104 309 | price=€12 | lastedit=2022-04-18 }} ===Sarria to Santiago de Compostela=== ; Distance : 111 km Many pilgrims that only have one week or less to walk the Camino would start their journey from Sarria the closest large town from Santiago de Compostela, enough to get a certificate. Travellers coming from points before Sarria may find it a little bit of a shock that the pilgrim route is noticeably more crowded. The first major stop is {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q849319|name=Portomarín}}, 22 km away. The town sits beside the Miño River and was historically moved uphill, stone by stone, during the construction of the Belesar Reservoir. Its most iconic sight is the Church of San Nicolás, a fortified Romanesque church overlooking the main square. From Portomarín, the Camino climbs gradually for 25 km to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q842216|name=Palas de Rei}}, a small town with a long pilgrimage history. Pilgrims pass through charming hamlets and farmland, often sharing paths with grazing cows. This section also offers many small cafés for a quick rest. Continuing 14 km from Palas de Rei, the trail reaches {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q912514|name=Melide}}, a lively town famous for its pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus). For a classic experience, stop at Pulpería A Garnacha, known for serving some of the best octopus along the Camino. After Melide, a 14 km walk through eucalyptus groves and shaded paths brings pilgrims to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q651676|name=Arzúa}}, the last major town before Santiago. Known for its Arzúa-Ulloa cheese, the town is a great place to enjoy local flavors before the final stretch. The penultimate stage is a 19 km walk to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q16509803|name=O Pedrouzo}}, where the excitement of nearing Santiago begins to build. The Camino follows quiet forest trails and crosses small streams, offering a peaceful journey before reaching the outskirts of the city. The final 20 km from O Pedrouzo to {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q14314|name=[[Santiago de Compostela]]}} is filled with anticipation. Pilgrims pass through the Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy), where the first glimpses of Santiago’s cathedral appear. The descent into the city leads to the Praza do Obradoiro, where the grand Cathedral of Santiago marks the official end of the journey. Many pilgrims take time to explore Santiago, attend the Pilgrim’s Mass, and visit the Tomb of St. James. Some choose to continue their journey to Fisterra on the Camino Finisterre, walking to the Atlantic coast for a symbolic end at the "The End of the World," [[Fisterra]], via [[El Camino Finisterre]]. * {{eat | name=Pulperia a Garnacha | url=https://pulperiaagarnacha.com/ | email=garnachamelide@gmail.com | address=Rúa Camiño Vello de Santiago 2 | lat=42.9132030 | long=-8.0116282 | phone=+34 981 507 347 | lastedit=2022-04-18 }} ==Stay safe== ===Pyrenees=== Already facing a tough terrain to conquer on the first day, the Pyrenees are well known for their adverse conditions, especially during inclement weather. Air rescues and even deaths due to frostbites, trapped in snow, injuries from slips and exhaustion, and getting lost are unfortunately not uncommon. Check the weather conditions before attempting the ascent or inquire at the pilgrim's office at St. Jean-Pied-de-Port. If in doubt, the route through Valcarlos is always safer and less strenuous. On the Spanish side, there is an emergency phone, a shelter, and numbered mileposts. In case of emergency and you need a rescue, mentioning your location will be helpful for them to locate you. ===Theft=== Thieves posing as pilgrims do occasionally steal items, especially on the municipal pilgrims. If your room has a locker, keep your valuables and backpack inside. If not possible, put your valuables under the pillow or hug them while you sleep. ===Stray dogs=== Stray dogs are seldom to find but may still be prevalent just outside towns. If a dog turns aggressive, especially in packs, keep calm and walk slowly around them: ''do not run away''. ==Go next== * [[El Camino Finisterre]] {{usableeitinerary}} {{related|France}} {{PartOfItinerary|Europe itineraries}} 6htukm7rfj522zboqbb84l1re9d6t0j 0 5712 5090994 5074726 2025-07-10T18:08:17Z 143.58.197.253 /* Other destinations */ 5090994 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Campania banner View from Capri.jpg|caption=The view of Naples and Campania from the island of Capri|unesco=yes}} '''Campania''' is a region of [[Southern Italy]], famous for the spectacular Amalfi Coast. Mount Vesuvius, an active volcano, towers over the area and has been the source of death, destruction but also preservation and fertile soil for crops and livestock for thousands of years. [[Pompeii]], with its very extensive ruins preserved by ash from an eruption two millennia ago, is probably the most famous location in Campania, with the vibrant, beautiful though sometimes gritty city of [[Naples]] a close second, followed by the Isle of [[Capri]], but there are many other places on land and sea to see and discover. ==Provinces== {{mapframe|40.658|14.779|zoom=8|staticmap=Map of region of Campania, Italy, with provinces-en.svg}} {{mapshape}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q18241891|fill=#83e79d|title=[[Metropolitan City of Naples]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q16120|fill=#e1a9af|title=[[Avellino (province)|Avellino]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q16134|fill=#90cac1|title=[[Benevento (province)|Benevento]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q16153|fill=#f7bc69|title=[[Caserta (province)|Caserta]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q16271|fill=#ffe06f|title=[[Salerno (province)|Salerno]]}} Campania is divided into five provinces: {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Metropolitan City of Naples]] (NA) | region1color=#83e79d | region1items= | region1description=The incredible region capital, mount Vesuvius, the stunning islands of the Bay, remains of every historic age, excellent cuisine. | region2name=[[Avellino (province)|Avellino]] (AV) | region2color=#e1a9af | region2items= | region2description=Medieval villages and castles, beautiful mountains, renowned DOC wines, natural olive oil, cheeses and "salumi". | region3name=Benevento (BN) | region3color=#90cac1 | region3items= | region3description=Numerous Roman archaeological sites of its capital city, many medieval old towns situated on green hills. | region4name=Caserta (CE) | region4color=#f7bc69 | region4items= | region4description= The majestic Royal Palace in [[Caserta]] (city), Roman remains, lakes and mountains of Matese Regional Park, beach resorts on the Gulf of Gaeta. | region5name=[[Salerno (province)|Salerno]] (SA) | region5color=#ffe06f | region5items= | region5description=Amalfi coast, ruins of Paestum, Cilento National Park with enchanting coastline and immense forests. }} ==Cities== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Naples]]|lat=40.845|long=14.258333|wikidata=Q2634}} — Southern Italy's main city, largest historic centre in Europe with dozens of churches and monuments, delicious cuisine and birthplace of pizza * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Avellino]]|lat=40.916667|long=14.788889|image=PiazzaLibertàAvellino2017.jpg|wikidata=Q13433}} — remains of the Roman city of ''Abellinum'' and an interesting downtown surrounded by green mountains * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Benevento]]|lat=41.133333|long=14.783333|image=Benevento-Arch of Trajan from South.jpg|wikidata=Q13437}} — lots of Roman era remains and medieval Lombard age monuments * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Caserta]]|lat=41.066667|long=14.333333|image=Campania Caserta2 tango7174.jpg|wikidata=Q1906}} — biggest Royal Palace of the world by volume, and a medieval old town * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Salerno]]|lat=40.683333|long=14.766667|image=Port of Salerno-Castle view.jpg|wikidata=Q1083}} — vibrant and dynamic city with impressive cathedral and promenade ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Amalfi Coast]]|lat=40.633333|long=14.602778|image=Positano - 01.jpg|wikidata=Q212214}} – stunning stretch of coastline on the Gulf of Salerno, with enchanting towns such as [[Amalfi]], [[Positano]], [[Praiano]], [[Ravello]] and others. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ariano Irpino]]|lat=41.149722|long=15.084167|wikidata=Q55000}} – upon the panoramic [[Irpinia]] hills, endowed with medieval sights, museums, and typical restaurants * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Calitri]]|lat=40.903056|long=15.431389|image=Calitri Landscape.jpg|wikidata=Q55012}} – a picturesque town in the heart of Upper Irpinia, known for its characteristic cuisine * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Capri]]|lat=40.55|long=14.233333|image=Capri harbour from Anacapri 2013.jpg|wikidata=Q173292}} and {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ischia]]|lat=40.731204|long=13.895721|wikidata=Q189387}} – the famed islands in the Bay of Naples * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cava de' Tirreni]]|lat=40.7|long=14.705556|wikidata=Q19272}} – has one of the best preserved Porticos in the region and a lively but relaxed atmosphere * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park]]|image=Alburni e Vallo di Diano visti da Caggiano 03.JPG|wikidata=Q867361}} – will enchant visitors with its amazing landscapes * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Maiori]]|wikidata=Q81016}} – has the longest unbroken stretch of beach on the Amalfi coastline * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Massa Lubrense]]|lat=40.616667|long=14.35|image=Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi BW 2013-05-12 16-25-59.JPG|wikidata=Q72239}} – * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Paestum]]|lat=40.42|long=15.005556|image=Hera temple II - Paestum - Poseidonia - July 13th 2013 - 04.jpg|wikidata=Q329967}} – majestic Greek temples of 6th century BC and beach resort * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pisciotta]]|lat=40.105658|long=15.229723|image=Pisciotta pal.jpg|wikidata=Q81330}} – a medieval village nestled atop a hill, surrounded by ancient olive trees, that is one of the prettiest villages in the Mediterranean * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pompeii]]|lat=40.75|long=14.486111|image=Vesuvius from Pompeii (hires version 2 scaled).png|wikidata=Q43332}} and {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Herculaneum]]|lat=40.806|long=14.3482|image=Herculaneum - Ercolano - Campania - Italy - July 9th 2013 - 09.jpg|wikidata=Q178813}} (''Ercolano'') – Roman archaeological sites * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pozzuoli]]|lat=40.823056|long=14.122222|image=Fishing Harbor (5048294238).jpg|wikidata=Q72425}} | lots of Roman archaeological sites in the wonderful area of the Phlegraean Fields * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sant'Agnello]]|lat=40.633333|long=14.4|wikidata=Q72565}} – beautiful village near Sorrento * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sant'Angelo dei Lombardi]]|lat=40.933333|long=15.183333|wikidata=Q55103}} – medieval small town surrounded by the green hills of Irpinia * '''17 Sessa Aurunca''' offers a variety of historical and natural attractions. Key sites include <mark>the Borgo d'Arte di Valogno, a charming village with artistic flair;</mark> <mark>the Sessa Aurunca Cathedral, a beautiful example of religious architecture;</mark> <mark>and the Roman Theater, an ancient ruin.</mark> <mark>Visitors can also explore the Ponte Borbonico, a historic bridge, and the Archaeological Park of Suessa, which features well-preserved Roman ruins</mark>. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sorrento]]|lat=40.627778|long=14.373611|image=Sorrento - City view - panoramio.jpg|wikidata=Q72672}} – a wonderful town overlooking the Bay of Naples, famous for its picturesque shops * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Vesuvius]]|lat=40.821669|long=14.425993|wikidata=Q524}} – a world-famous volcano 1,281 metres (4,203 ft) high ==Understand== With 5.8 million citizens, it is Italy's third most populous and the most densely populated. The region has a rich heritage from [[Ancient Greece|Ancient Greek colonies]], the [[Roman Empire]] and [[Medieval and Renaissance Italy|the Renaissance]]. ===Tourist information === [https://www.italia.it/en/campania Campania tourism webpage] === Artecard === There are several versions of the Artecard that offer free entry and discounts to many sights. Probably the best deal for most is the Campania Artecard 365 Lite, which offers one free entry to the most important sights in Campania including the National Archeological Museum in Naples, the ruins at Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Caserta royal palace, etc. It is valid for 1 year and costs only 26 Eur. Only if you are interested in the convenience of not having to buy public transport tickets (which are cheap anyway) you could be interested in the 3-day cards (Napoli or Campania). See [https://www.campaniartecard.it/?lang=en] ==Talk== The local language, Napuletano, is not mutually intelligible with standard Italian, but most Campanians can speak standard Italian, too, although the local accent is pronounced. ==Get in== There are good train and road networks that connect Campania to all other regions of Italy. If you need to fly in, Naples has an international airport, or you can fly in to Rome's Fiumicino Airport and take a fast train to Naples. ==Get around== {{mapshapes|Q867565|stroke-opacity=0.4}} Within Campania the public transport has a unified ticket system called '''[https://www.unicocampania.it/ Unico Campania]'''. Tickets are organised in zones which means that with one ticket you can travel within one or more zones. The zones radiate out from the centre of Napoli, and allow you to travel within a zone or between zones, with a maximum time limit for the journey. The idea is that you can purchase a single ticket to travel from a zone outside Napoli to the centre, or vice-versa. Included in this system are generally national trains (also to [[Paestum]]), the underground in [[Naples]], the Funicolare in Naples, Sita buses along the [[Amalfi Coast]], the Funicolare on [[Capri]], Bus of [[Ischia]] the Circumvesuviana that goes also past [[Pompeii]] and [[Herculaneum]] but ''not'' ferries. The advantage is that you can get tickets for different kind of vehicles, and you can buy tickets in advance for areas where it is difficult to find a ticket office such as [[Paestum]], as the tickets start to be valid once you '''stamped''' them. You should stamp the tickets each time you change vehicle, but the tickets are only valid for ''one'' train, Metro or Funicolare journey. It is possibly also cheaper to buy a bunch of 'one zone' tickets than each time a new one. But careful: some tickets are locally bound (only in Naples, for example). If in doubt, ask when you buy your tickets. ===By train=== [[File:Pompei staz.jpg|thumb]] National train lines go from [[Naples]] to [[Salerno]] and further east and southwards. The '''Circumvesuviana''' is a local private train link serving the area around the Mount Vesuvius from Naples to Sorrento. The service has the appeal of typical metropolitan trains connecting to local suburbs (including the odd graffiti and cut open seat/window). For tourists this train service is particularly interesting because it is the only reasonable public transport link to Pompeii, Herculaneum and Vesuvius. There are several different lines but ''only the blue line'' goes to Pompeii, Herculaneum and Vesuvius. Pompeii is in Zone 3 of Campania, and a one-way ticket to (and from) "Zone 3" is €2.80. On weekdays all day ticket is €8.40 and on weekends all day ticket is €4.50. You can use this ticket to get to Pompeii and to get back to Naples. When going to visit the ruins of Pompeii, get off the train at the Pompei Scavi stop. It's about a 40-minute ride from Naples. The entrance is approximately 50 m from the station. ===By boat=== ===By bus=== [[File:Autodromo bus L239 of ANM Naples in 2000.jpg|thumb]] Buses run generally pretty efficiently, but can become full and a bit uncomfortable. Tickets are part of the Unico Campania system, which must be bought in advance. Once exception is the AliBus, which travels from the airport to the centre of town, where you can buy the tickets on the bus. Along the [[Amalfi]] coastline, buses are the only option, with the exception of ferries. The roads are narrow and winding, but the drivers are exceptionally skilled, only usually being slowed down by the less experienced tour bus drivers. ===By car=== The Amalfi-Sorrento-Salerno road is narrow and full of hairpin turns. Cars pass fast and close. Take care. ==See== [[File:Cave canem - beware of the dog.jpg|thumb|Pompeii]] * The Roman-era archeological sites at [[Pompeii]], [[Herculaneum]] and several other places in the area. * "[[Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park]] with the Archeological sites of [[Paestum]] and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula" — a cultural and natural [[UNESCO World Heritage site]] consisting of a national park, two ancient Greek archaeological sites and a monastery. * The famous [[Amalfi Coast]]. ==Do== The sea is one of the biggest lures to visitors of the Campania region. The Amalfi coast presents a series of mountainside towns that seem to tumble into the sea. Also, not far from Naples are some of the most beautiful islands in the world: Capri, Ischia and Procida. '''Visit two ancient villages''' called [[Ariano Irpino]] and [[Calitri]], located in the heart of Apennines - equidistant from Tyrrhenian and Adriatic seas. The area around these medieval towns is sprinkled with castles, aristocratic palaces and delightful locations soaked in history and tradition, ridged with hills and valleys and marked by the ancient trails along which Hannibal and his legions marched when setting off to attack ancient Rome 2,000 years ago. One thousand years later Ariano Irpino was the first Norman county in Southern Italy and there King Roger II summoned the ''Assizes of Ariano'' in 1140. ==Eat== [[File:Mozzarella di bufala2.jpg|thumb|''Mozzarella di bufala'', "the queen of Mediterranean cuisine"]] Perhaps the Campania product most widely known is '''mozzarella di bufala''', with DOP awarded by the European Union. Due to vast market demand and the scarce number of water buffalo, it is also however a product at risk of a "bufala" (also Italian for scam). To avoid this, each wrapper carries the symbol of the protection consortium to guarantee its authenticity and geographic origin. The origin of the mozzarella – so called from the verb "mozzare" to cut – probably goes back to the 12th century, while the buffalo was already part of the Campanian landscape in the 7th century. The true characteristic of this fresh cheese with a delicate taste is its consistency, which should be firm, slightly elastic and chewy. When cut, the centre of a true mozzarella di bufala 'weeps': an interior still be slightly serous, protected by a thin skin and it should be smooth, but not viscous. It should be preserved in its liquid for no more than 48 hours, preferably not in the refrigerator but in a cool and airy place. As well as the characteristic round form it is produced in braids, knots, nuts and cherries and there is also a smoked version. Astride green Campanian Apennines, '''caciocavallo''' (a type of durable cow's milk mountain cheese) is renowned both in [[Irpinia]] and in [[Samnium]], whereas similar '''caciocchiato''' is from [[Ariano Irpino]] only. It is not possible to talk about Campania's gastronomy without mentioning '''pizza''', particularly '''pizza margherita'''. This palate's delight was born in Naples, and legend has it that it was created in honour of Italian Queen Margaret, though this is not true because the same toppings were used at least decades before Italian unification. Starting as a simple baked product, it became a fanciful, rich, surprising and always appreciated food. The region also makes delicious pastas and rich pastries. ==Drink== [[File:Capri - 7189.jpg|thumb|Limoncello bottles in Capri]] Local Campanian beverages include '''limoncello''' and crema di limone, both lemon-based. Limoncello has the highest alcohol content, is very strong in flavor, and is a very bright translucent yellow color. Crema di limone, as the name suggests, is cream-based. It is less strong than limoncello and is an opaque off-white. Beer is widely available in the cafes and ristoranti in Campania, though wine is more the local drink of choice with a meal, and Campanian wines are famous, delicious and often minerally, due to the terroir of the slopes of Mount Vesuvius. Prices in local groceries for a bottle of wine vary somewhere between EURO 4.50-100+, though they can be higher in particularly high-tourism areas. One local wine of Campania is '''Lacryma Christi''', or "Tears of Christ". This wine is produced on the lower slopes of Mount Vesuvius and is available at many groceries in Campania. For travelers going to the Mount Vesuvius National Park, this wine is available from some of the gift shops at the top at a deeply reduced rate compared with other stores in the area. Terraced land for grape cultivation is frequently visible in countryside of Campania. ==Stay safe== The notorious ''Camorra'' is never involved in crimes against tourists; however, be careful in certain areas, such as Naples' suburbs, especially Scampia and Secondigliano. Other big cities (Salerno, Caserta, Benevento and Avellino) are generally safer but Salerno and Caserta's suburbs can be dangerous, especially during the night. Smaller inland towns (within Samnium and [[Irpinia]] districts), Southern Campania (the Cilento area), the Sorrento Peninsula, [[Amalfi Coast]] and islands are safe, but you have to be careful about the condition of the roads. Road rules are not always respected, so be careful. LGBTQ+ people don't have many problems in big cities like Naples, Salerno and Caserta. Public displays of affection between LGBTQ+ couples are best avoided in rural areas (like Cilento), in small-to-medium-sized towns or in inner cities like Avellino and Benevento. ==Go next== Campania is a good base for exploring other regions of southern Italy such as [[Basilicata]], [[Calabria]] and [[Apulia]], as well as [[Sicily]]. [[Lazio]] and the capital, [[Rome]], are also easily accessible to the north. {{isPartOf|Southern Italy}} {{geo|40.83|14.6|zoom=10}} {{outlineregion}} nw3b6090vwqugq35rj7jpmu2n0u7oho 5090995 5090994 2025-07-10T18:10:47Z 143.58.197.253 /* Other destinations */ 5090995 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Campania banner View from Capri.jpg|caption=The view of Naples and Campania from the island of Capri|unesco=yes}} '''Campania''' is a region of [[Southern Italy]], famous for the spectacular Amalfi Coast. Mount Vesuvius, an active volcano, towers over the area and has been the source of death, destruction but also preservation and fertile soil for crops and livestock for thousands of years. [[Pompeii]], with its very extensive ruins preserved by ash from an eruption two millennia ago, is probably the most famous location in Campania, with the vibrant, beautiful though sometimes gritty city of [[Naples]] a close second, followed by the Isle of [[Capri]], but there are many other places on land and sea to see and discover. ==Provinces== {{mapframe|40.658|14.779|zoom=8|staticmap=Map of region of Campania, Italy, with provinces-en.svg}} {{mapshape}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q18241891|fill=#83e79d|title=[[Metropolitan City of Naples]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q16120|fill=#e1a9af|title=[[Avellino (province)|Avellino]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q16134|fill=#90cac1|title=[[Benevento (province)|Benevento]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q16153|fill=#f7bc69|title=[[Caserta (province)|Caserta]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q16271|fill=#ffe06f|title=[[Salerno (province)|Salerno]]}} Campania is divided into five provinces: {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Metropolitan City of Naples]] (NA) | region1color=#83e79d | region1items= | region1description=The incredible region capital, mount Vesuvius, the stunning islands of the Bay, remains of every historic age, excellent cuisine. | region2name=[[Avellino (province)|Avellino]] (AV) | region2color=#e1a9af | region2items= | region2description=Medieval villages and castles, beautiful mountains, renowned DOC wines, natural olive oil, cheeses and "salumi". | region3name=Benevento (BN) | region3color=#90cac1 | region3items= | region3description=Numerous Roman archaeological sites of its capital city, many medieval old towns situated on green hills. | region4name=Caserta (CE) | region4color=#f7bc69 | region4items= | region4description= The majestic Royal Palace in [[Caserta]] (city), Roman remains, lakes and mountains of Matese Regional Park, beach resorts on the Gulf of Gaeta. | region5name=[[Salerno (province)|Salerno]] (SA) | region5color=#ffe06f | region5items= | region5description=Amalfi coast, ruins of Paestum, Cilento National Park with enchanting coastline and immense forests. }} ==Cities== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Naples]]|lat=40.845|long=14.258333|wikidata=Q2634}} — Southern Italy's main city, largest historic centre in Europe with dozens of churches and monuments, delicious cuisine and birthplace of pizza * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Avellino]]|lat=40.916667|long=14.788889|image=PiazzaLibertàAvellino2017.jpg|wikidata=Q13433}} — remains of the Roman city of ''Abellinum'' and an interesting downtown surrounded by green mountains * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Benevento]]|lat=41.133333|long=14.783333|image=Benevento-Arch of Trajan from South.jpg|wikidata=Q13437}} — lots of Roman era remains and medieval Lombard age monuments * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Caserta]]|lat=41.066667|long=14.333333|image=Campania Caserta2 tango7174.jpg|wikidata=Q1906}} — biggest Royal Palace of the world by volume, and a medieval old town * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Salerno]]|lat=40.683333|long=14.766667|image=Port of Salerno-Castle view.jpg|wikidata=Q1083}} — vibrant and dynamic city with impressive cathedral and promenade ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Amalfi Coast]]|lat=40.633333|long=14.602778|image=Positano - 01.jpg|wikidata=Q212214}} – stunning stretch of coastline on the Gulf of Salerno, with enchanting towns such as [[Amalfi]], [[Positano]], [[Praiano]], [[Ravello]] and others. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ariano Irpino]]|lat=41.149722|long=15.084167|wikidata=Q55000}} – upon the panoramic [[Irpinia]] hills, endowed with medieval sights, museums, and typical restaurants * 3 '''Capua''', Italy, offers a blend of ancient Roman history and medieval charm. Key attractions include <mark>the Amphitheatre of Capua, the Museo Campano, and the Basilica Benedettina Sant'Angelo in Formis</mark>. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Calitri]]|lat=40.903056|long=15.431389|image=Calitri Landscape.jpg|wikidata=Q55012}} – a picturesque town in the heart of Upper Irpinia, known for its characteristic cuisine * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Capri]]|lat=40.55|long=14.233333|image=Capri harbour from Anacapri 2013.jpg|wikidata=Q173292}} and {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ischia]]|lat=40.731204|long=13.895721|wikidata=Q189387}} – the famed islands in the Bay of Naples * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cava de' Tirreni]]|lat=40.7|long=14.705556|wikidata=Q19272}} – has one of the best preserved Porticos in the region and a lively but relaxed atmosphere * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park]]|image=Alburni e Vallo di Diano visti da Caggiano 03.JPG|wikidata=Q867361}} – will enchant visitors with its amazing landscapes * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Maiori]]|wikidata=Q81016}} – has the longest unbroken stretch of beach on the Amalfi coastline * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Massa Lubrense]]|lat=40.616667|long=14.35|image=Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi BW 2013-05-12 16-25-59.JPG|wikidata=Q72239}} – * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Paestum]]|lat=40.42|long=15.005556|image=Hera temple II - Paestum - Poseidonia - July 13th 2013 - 04.jpg|wikidata=Q329967}} – majestic Greek temples of 6th century BC and beach resort * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pisciotta]]|lat=40.105658|long=15.229723|image=Pisciotta pal.jpg|wikidata=Q81330}} – a medieval village nestled atop a hill, surrounded by ancient olive trees, that is one of the prettiest villages in the Mediterranean * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pompeii]]|lat=40.75|long=14.486111|image=Vesuvius from Pompeii (hires version 2 scaled).png|wikidata=Q43332}} and {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Herculaneum]]|lat=40.806|long=14.3482|image=Herculaneum - Ercolano - Campania - Italy - July 9th 2013 - 09.jpg|wikidata=Q178813}} (''Ercolano'') – Roman archaeological sites * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pozzuoli]]|lat=40.823056|long=14.122222|image=Fishing Harbor (5048294238).jpg|wikidata=Q72425}} | lots of Roman archaeological sites in the wonderful area of the Phlegraean Fields * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sant'Agnello]]|lat=40.633333|long=14.4|wikidata=Q72565}} – beautiful village near Sorrento * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sant'Angelo dei Lombardi]]|lat=40.933333|long=15.183333|wikidata=Q55103}} – medieval small town surrounded by the green hills of Irpinia * '''17 Sessa Aurunca''' offers a variety of historical and natural attractions. Key sites include <mark>the Borgo d'Arte di Valogno, a charming village with artistic flair;</mark> <mark>the Sessa Aurunca Cathedral, a beautiful example of religious architecture;</mark> <mark>and the Roman Theater, an ancient ruin.</mark> <mark>Visitors can also explore the Ponte Borbonico, a historic bridge, and the Archaeological Park of Suessa, which features well-preserved Roman ruins</mark>. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sorrento]]|lat=40.627778|long=14.373611|image=Sorrento - City view - panoramio.jpg|wikidata=Q72672}} – a wonderful town overlooking the Bay of Naples, famous for its picturesque shops * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Vesuvius]]|lat=40.821669|long=14.425993|wikidata=Q524}} – a world-famous volcano 1,281 metres (4,203 ft) high ==Understand== With 5.8 million citizens, it is Italy's third most populous and the most densely populated. The region has a rich heritage from [[Ancient Greece|Ancient Greek colonies]], the [[Roman Empire]] and [[Medieval and Renaissance Italy|the Renaissance]]. ===Tourist information === [https://www.italia.it/en/campania Campania tourism webpage] === Artecard === There are several versions of the Artecard that offer free entry and discounts to many sights. Probably the best deal for most is the Campania Artecard 365 Lite, which offers one free entry to the most important sights in Campania including the National Archeological Museum in Naples, the ruins at Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Caserta royal palace, etc. It is valid for 1 year and costs only 26 Eur. Only if you are interested in the convenience of not having to buy public transport tickets (which are cheap anyway) you could be interested in the 3-day cards (Napoli or Campania). See [https://www.campaniartecard.it/?lang=en] ==Talk== The local language, Napuletano, is not mutually intelligible with standard Italian, but most Campanians can speak standard Italian, too, although the local accent is pronounced. ==Get in== There are good train and road networks that connect Campania to all other regions of Italy. If you need to fly in, Naples has an international airport, or you can fly in to Rome's Fiumicino Airport and take a fast train to Naples. ==Get around== {{mapshapes|Q867565|stroke-opacity=0.4}} Within Campania the public transport has a unified ticket system called '''[https://www.unicocampania.it/ Unico Campania]'''. Tickets are organised in zones which means that with one ticket you can travel within one or more zones. The zones radiate out from the centre of Napoli, and allow you to travel within a zone or between zones, with a maximum time limit for the journey. The idea is that you can purchase a single ticket to travel from a zone outside Napoli to the centre, or vice-versa. Included in this system are generally national trains (also to [[Paestum]]), the underground in [[Naples]], the Funicolare in Naples, Sita buses along the [[Amalfi Coast]], the Funicolare on [[Capri]], Bus of [[Ischia]] the Circumvesuviana that goes also past [[Pompeii]] and [[Herculaneum]] but ''not'' ferries. The advantage is that you can get tickets for different kind of vehicles, and you can buy tickets in advance for areas where it is difficult to find a ticket office such as [[Paestum]], as the tickets start to be valid once you '''stamped''' them. You should stamp the tickets each time you change vehicle, but the tickets are only valid for ''one'' train, Metro or Funicolare journey. It is possibly also cheaper to buy a bunch of 'one zone' tickets than each time a new one. But careful: some tickets are locally bound (only in Naples, for example). If in doubt, ask when you buy your tickets. ===By train=== [[File:Pompei staz.jpg|thumb]] National train lines go from [[Naples]] to [[Salerno]] and further east and southwards. The '''Circumvesuviana''' is a local private train link serving the area around the Mount Vesuvius from Naples to Sorrento. The service has the appeal of typical metropolitan trains connecting to local suburbs (including the odd graffiti and cut open seat/window). For tourists this train service is particularly interesting because it is the only reasonable public transport link to Pompeii, Herculaneum and Vesuvius. There are several different lines but ''only the blue line'' goes to Pompeii, Herculaneum and Vesuvius. Pompeii is in Zone 3 of Campania, and a one-way ticket to (and from) "Zone 3" is €2.80. On weekdays all day ticket is €8.40 and on weekends all day ticket is €4.50. You can use this ticket to get to Pompeii and to get back to Naples. When going to visit the ruins of Pompeii, get off the train at the Pompei Scavi stop. It's about a 40-minute ride from Naples. The entrance is approximately 50 m from the station. ===By boat=== ===By bus=== [[File:Autodromo bus L239 of ANM Naples in 2000.jpg|thumb]] Buses run generally pretty efficiently, but can become full and a bit uncomfortable. Tickets are part of the Unico Campania system, which must be bought in advance. Once exception is the AliBus, which travels from the airport to the centre of town, where you can buy the tickets on the bus. Along the [[Amalfi]] coastline, buses are the only option, with the exception of ferries. The roads are narrow and winding, but the drivers are exceptionally skilled, only usually being slowed down by the less experienced tour bus drivers. ===By car=== The Amalfi-Sorrento-Salerno road is narrow and full of hairpin turns. Cars pass fast and close. Take care. ==See== [[File:Cave canem - beware of the dog.jpg|thumb|Pompeii]] * The Roman-era archeological sites at [[Pompeii]], [[Herculaneum]] and several other places in the area. * "[[Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park]] with the Archeological sites of [[Paestum]] and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula" — a cultural and natural [[UNESCO World Heritage site]] consisting of a national park, two ancient Greek archaeological sites and a monastery. * The famous [[Amalfi Coast]]. ==Do== The sea is one of the biggest lures to visitors of the Campania region. The Amalfi coast presents a series of mountainside towns that seem to tumble into the sea. Also, not far from Naples are some of the most beautiful islands in the world: Capri, Ischia and Procida. '''Visit two ancient villages''' called [[Ariano Irpino]] and [[Calitri]], located in the heart of Apennines - equidistant from Tyrrhenian and Adriatic seas. The area around these medieval towns is sprinkled with castles, aristocratic palaces and delightful locations soaked in history and tradition, ridged with hills and valleys and marked by the ancient trails along which Hannibal and his legions marched when setting off to attack ancient Rome 2,000 years ago. One thousand years later Ariano Irpino was the first Norman county in Southern Italy and there King Roger II summoned the ''Assizes of Ariano'' in 1140. ==Eat== [[File:Mozzarella di bufala2.jpg|thumb|''Mozzarella di bufala'', "the queen of Mediterranean cuisine"]] Perhaps the Campania product most widely known is '''mozzarella di bufala''', with DOP awarded by the European Union. Due to vast market demand and the scarce number of water buffalo, it is also however a product at risk of a "bufala" (also Italian for scam). To avoid this, each wrapper carries the symbol of the protection consortium to guarantee its authenticity and geographic origin. The origin of the mozzarella – so called from the verb "mozzare" to cut – probably goes back to the 12th century, while the buffalo was already part of the Campanian landscape in the 7th century. The true characteristic of this fresh cheese with a delicate taste is its consistency, which should be firm, slightly elastic and chewy. When cut, the centre of a true mozzarella di bufala 'weeps': an interior still be slightly serous, protected by a thin skin and it should be smooth, but not viscous. It should be preserved in its liquid for no more than 48 hours, preferably not in the refrigerator but in a cool and airy place. As well as the characteristic round form it is produced in braids, knots, nuts and cherries and there is also a smoked version. Astride green Campanian Apennines, '''caciocavallo''' (a type of durable cow's milk mountain cheese) is renowned both in [[Irpinia]] and in [[Samnium]], whereas similar '''caciocchiato''' is from [[Ariano Irpino]] only. It is not possible to talk about Campania's gastronomy without mentioning '''pizza''', particularly '''pizza margherita'''. This palate's delight was born in Naples, and legend has it that it was created in honour of Italian Queen Margaret, though this is not true because the same toppings were used at least decades before Italian unification. Starting as a simple baked product, it became a fanciful, rich, surprising and always appreciated food. The region also makes delicious pastas and rich pastries. ==Drink== [[File:Capri - 7189.jpg|thumb|Limoncello bottles in Capri]] Local Campanian beverages include '''limoncello''' and crema di limone, both lemon-based. Limoncello has the highest alcohol content, is very strong in flavor, and is a very bright translucent yellow color. Crema di limone, as the name suggests, is cream-based. It is less strong than limoncello and is an opaque off-white. Beer is widely available in the cafes and ristoranti in Campania, though wine is more the local drink of choice with a meal, and Campanian wines are famous, delicious and often minerally, due to the terroir of the slopes of Mount Vesuvius. Prices in local groceries for a bottle of wine vary somewhere between EURO 4.50-100+, though they can be higher in particularly high-tourism areas. One local wine of Campania is '''Lacryma Christi''', or "Tears of Christ". This wine is produced on the lower slopes of Mount Vesuvius and is available at many groceries in Campania. For travelers going to the Mount Vesuvius National Park, this wine is available from some of the gift shops at the top at a deeply reduced rate compared with other stores in the area. Terraced land for grape cultivation is frequently visible in countryside of Campania. ==Stay safe== The notorious ''Camorra'' is never involved in crimes against tourists; however, be careful in certain areas, such as Naples' suburbs, especially Scampia and Secondigliano. Other big cities (Salerno, Caserta, Benevento and Avellino) are generally safer but Salerno and Caserta's suburbs can be dangerous, especially during the night. Smaller inland towns (within Samnium and [[Irpinia]] districts), Southern Campania (the Cilento area), the Sorrento Peninsula, [[Amalfi Coast]] and islands are safe, but you have to be careful about the condition of the roads. Road rules are not always respected, so be careful. LGBTQ+ people don't have many problems in big cities like Naples, Salerno and Caserta. Public displays of affection between LGBTQ+ couples are best avoided in rural areas (like Cilento), in small-to-medium-sized towns or in inner cities like Avellino and Benevento. ==Go next== Campania is a good base for exploring other regions of southern Italy such as [[Basilicata]], [[Calabria]] and [[Apulia]], as well as [[Sicily]]. [[Lazio]] and the capital, [[Rome]], are also easily accessible to the north. {{isPartOf|Southern Italy}} {{geo|40.83|14.6|zoom=10}} {{outlineregion}} hhcovwa0a12vatn4d5aviy9rmmxmtvz 5091015 5090995 2025-07-10T18:49:11Z Ibaman 195012 rv per [[WV:MoS]] 5091015 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Campania banner View from Capri.jpg|caption=The view of Naples and Campania from the island of Capri|unesco=yes}} '''Campania''' is a region of [[Southern Italy]], famous for the spectacular Amalfi Coast. Mount Vesuvius, an active volcano, towers over the area and has been the source of death, destruction but also preservation and fertile soil for crops and livestock for thousands of years. [[Pompeii]], with its very extensive ruins preserved by ash from an eruption two millennia ago, is probably the most famous location in Campania, with the vibrant, beautiful though sometimes gritty city of [[Naples]] a close second, followed by the Isle of [[Capri]], but there are many other places on land and sea to see and discover. ==Provinces== {{mapframe|40.658|14.779|zoom=8|staticmap=Map of region of Campania, Italy, with provinces-en.svg}} {{mapshape}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q18241891|fill=#83e79d|title=[[Metropolitan City of Naples]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q16120|fill=#e1a9af|title=[[Avellino (province)|Avellino]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q16134|fill=#90cac1|title=[[Benevento (province)|Benevento]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q16153|fill=#f7bc69|title=[[Caserta (province)|Caserta]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q16271|fill=#ffe06f|title=[[Salerno (province)|Salerno]]}} Campania is divided into five provinces: {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Metropolitan City of Naples]] (NA) | region1color=#83e79d | region1items= | region1description=The incredible region capital, mount Vesuvius, the stunning islands of the Bay, remains of every historic age, excellent cuisine. | region2name=[[Avellino (province)|Avellino]] (AV) | region2color=#e1a9af | region2items= | region2description=Medieval villages and castles, beautiful mountains, renowned DOC wines, natural olive oil, cheeses and "salumi". | region3name=Benevento (BN) | region3color=#90cac1 | region3items= | region3description=Numerous Roman archaeological sites of its capital city, many medieval old towns situated on green hills. | region4name=Caserta (CE) | region4color=#f7bc69 | region4items= | region4description= The majestic Royal Palace in [[Caserta]] (city), Roman remains, lakes and mountains of Matese Regional Park, beach resorts on the Gulf of Gaeta. | region5name=[[Salerno (province)|Salerno]] (SA) | region5color=#ffe06f | region5items= | region5description=Amalfi coast, ruins of Paestum, Cilento National Park with enchanting coastline and immense forests. }} ==Cities== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Naples]]|lat=40.845|long=14.258333|wikidata=Q2634}} — Southern Italy's main city, largest historic centre in Europe with dozens of churches and monuments, delicious cuisine and birthplace of pizza * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Avellino]]|lat=40.916667|long=14.788889|image=PiazzaLibertàAvellino2017.jpg|wikidata=Q13433}} — remains of the Roman city of ''Abellinum'' and an interesting downtown surrounded by green mountains * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Benevento]]|lat=41.133333|long=14.783333|image=Benevento-Arch of Trajan from South.jpg|wikidata=Q13437}} — lots of Roman era remains and medieval Lombard age monuments * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Caserta]]|lat=41.066667|long=14.333333|image=Campania Caserta2 tango7174.jpg|wikidata=Q1906}} — biggest Royal Palace of the world by volume, and a medieval old town * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Salerno]]|lat=40.683333|long=14.766667|image=Port of Salerno-Castle view.jpg|wikidata=Q1083}} — vibrant and dynamic city with impressive cathedral and promenade ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Amalfi Coast]]|lat=40.633333|long=14.602778|image=Positano - 01.jpg|wikidata=Q212214}} – stunning stretch of coastline on the Gulf of Salerno, with enchanting towns such as [[Amalfi]], [[Positano]], [[Praiano]], [[Ravello]] and others. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ariano Irpino]]|lat=41.149722|long=15.084167|wikidata=Q55000}} – upon the panoramic [[Irpinia]] hills, endowed with medieval sights, museums, and typical restaurants * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Calitri]]|lat=40.903056|long=15.431389|image=Calitri Landscape.jpg|wikidata=Q55012}} – a picturesque town in the heart of Upper Irpinia, known for its characteristic cuisine * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Capri]]|lat=40.55|long=14.233333|image=Capri harbour from Anacapri 2013.jpg|wikidata=Q173292}} and {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ischia]]|lat=40.731204|long=13.895721|wikidata=Q189387}} – the famed islands in the Bay of Naples * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cava de' Tirreni]]|lat=40.7|long=14.705556|wikidata=Q19272}} – has one of the best preserved Porticos in the region and a lively but relaxed atmosphere * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park]]|image=Alburni e Vallo di Diano visti da Caggiano 03.JPG|wikidata=Q867361}} – will enchant visitors with its amazing landscapes * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Maiori]]|wikidata=Q81016}} – has the longest unbroken stretch of beach on the Amalfi coastline * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Massa Lubrense]]|lat=40.616667|long=14.35|image=Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi BW 2013-05-12 16-25-59.JPG|wikidata=Q72239}} – * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Paestum]]|lat=40.42|long=15.005556|image=Hera temple II - Paestum - Poseidonia - July 13th 2013 - 04.jpg|wikidata=Q329967}} – majestic Greek temples of 6th century BC and beach resort * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pisciotta]]|lat=40.105658|long=15.229723|image=Pisciotta pal.jpg|wikidata=Q81330}} – a medieval village nestled atop a hill, surrounded by ancient olive trees, that is one of the prettiest villages in the Mediterranean * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pompeii]]|lat=40.75|long=14.486111|image=Vesuvius from Pompeii (hires version 2 scaled).png|wikidata=Q43332}} and {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Herculaneum]]|lat=40.806|long=14.3482|image=Herculaneum - Ercolano - Campania - Italy - July 9th 2013 - 09.jpg|wikidata=Q178813}} (''Ercolano'') – Roman archaeological sites * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pozzuoli]]|lat=40.823056|long=14.122222|image=Fishing Harbor (5048294238).jpg|wikidata=Q72425}} | lots of Roman archaeological sites in the wonderful area of the Phlegraean Fields * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sant'Agnello]]|lat=40.633333|long=14.4|wikidata=Q72565}} – beautiful village near Sorrento * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sant'Angelo dei Lombardi]]|lat=40.933333|long=15.183333|wikidata=Q55103}} – medieval small town surrounded by the green hills of Irpinia * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sorrento]]|lat=40.627778|long=14.373611|image=Sorrento - City view - panoramio.jpg|wikidata=Q72672}} – a wonderful town overlooking the Bay of Naples, famous for its picturesque shops * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Vesuvius]]|lat=40.821669|long=14.425993|wikidata=Q524}} – a world-famous volcano 1,281 metres (4,203 ft) high ==Understand== With 5.8 million citizens, it is Italy's third most populous and the most densely populated. The region has a rich heritage from [[Ancient Greece|Ancient Greek colonies]], the [[Roman Empire]] and [[Medieval and Renaissance Italy|the Renaissance]]. ===Tourist information === [https://www.italia.it/en/campania Campania tourism webpage] === Artecard === There are several versions of the Artecard that offer free entry and discounts to many sights. Probably the best deal for most is the Campania Artecard 365 Lite, which offers one free entry to the most important sights in Campania including the National Archeological Museum in Naples, the ruins at Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Caserta royal palace, etc. It is valid for 1 year and costs only 26 Eur. Only if you are interested in the convenience of not having to buy public transport tickets (which are cheap anyway) you could be interested in the 3-day cards (Napoli or Campania). See [https://www.campaniartecard.it/?lang=en] ==Talk== The local language, Napuletano, is not mutually intelligible with standard Italian, but most Campanians can speak standard Italian, too, although the local accent is pronounced. ==Get in== There are good train and road networks that connect Campania to all other regions of Italy. If you need to fly in, Naples has an international airport, or you can fly in to Rome's Fiumicino Airport and take a fast train to Naples. ==Get around== {{mapshapes|Q867565|stroke-opacity=0.4}} Within Campania the public transport has a unified ticket system called '''[https://www.unicocampania.it/ Unico Campania]'''. Tickets are organised in zones which means that with one ticket you can travel within one or more zones. The zones radiate out from the centre of Napoli, and allow you to travel within a zone or between zones, with a maximum time limit for the journey. The idea is that you can purchase a single ticket to travel from a zone outside Napoli to the centre, or vice-versa. Included in this system are generally national trains (also to [[Paestum]]), the underground in [[Naples]], the Funicolare in Naples, Sita buses along the [[Amalfi Coast]], the Funicolare on [[Capri]], Bus of [[Ischia]] the Circumvesuviana that goes also past [[Pompeii]] and [[Herculaneum]] but ''not'' ferries. The advantage is that you can get tickets for different kind of vehicles, and you can buy tickets in advance for areas where it is difficult to find a ticket office such as [[Paestum]], as the tickets start to be valid once you '''stamped''' them. You should stamp the tickets each time you change vehicle, but the tickets are only valid for ''one'' train, Metro or Funicolare journey. It is possibly also cheaper to buy a bunch of 'one zone' tickets than each time a new one. But careful: some tickets are locally bound (only in Naples, for example). If in doubt, ask when you buy your tickets. ===By train=== [[File:Pompei staz.jpg|thumb]] National train lines go from [[Naples]] to [[Salerno]] and further east and southwards. The '''Circumvesuviana''' is a local private train link serving the area around the Mount Vesuvius from Naples to Sorrento. The service has the appeal of typical metropolitan trains connecting to local suburbs (including the odd graffiti and cut open seat/window). For tourists this train service is particularly interesting because it is the only reasonable public transport link to Pompeii, Herculaneum and Vesuvius. There are several different lines but ''only the blue line'' goes to Pompeii, Herculaneum and Vesuvius. Pompeii is in Zone 3 of Campania, and a one-way ticket to (and from) "Zone 3" is €2.80. On weekdays all day ticket is €8.40 and on weekends all day ticket is €4.50. You can use this ticket to get to Pompeii and to get back to Naples. When going to visit the ruins of Pompeii, get off the train at the Pompei Scavi stop. It's about a 40-minute ride from Naples. The entrance is approximately 50 m from the station. ===By boat=== ===By bus=== [[File:Autodromo bus L239 of ANM Naples in 2000.jpg|thumb]] Buses run generally pretty efficiently, but can become full and a bit uncomfortable. Tickets are part of the Unico Campania system, which must be bought in advance. Once exception is the AliBus, which travels from the airport to the centre of town, where you can buy the tickets on the bus. Along the [[Amalfi]] coastline, buses are the only option, with the exception of ferries. The roads are narrow and winding, but the drivers are exceptionally skilled, only usually being slowed down by the less experienced tour bus drivers. ===By car=== The Amalfi-Sorrento-Salerno road is narrow and full of hairpin turns. Cars pass fast and close. Take care. ==See== [[File:Cave canem - beware of the dog.jpg|thumb|Pompeii]] * The Roman-era archeological sites at [[Pompeii]], [[Herculaneum]] and several other places in the area. * "[[Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park]] with the Archeological sites of [[Paestum]] and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula" — a cultural and natural [[UNESCO World Heritage site]] consisting of a national park, two ancient Greek archaeological sites and a monastery. * The famous [[Amalfi Coast]]. ==Do== The sea is one of the biggest lures to visitors of the Campania region. The Amalfi coast presents a series of mountainside towns that seem to tumble into the sea. Also, not far from Naples are some of the most beautiful islands in the world: Capri, Ischia and Procida. '''Visit two ancient villages''' called [[Ariano Irpino]] and [[Calitri]], located in the heart of Apennines - equidistant from Tyrrhenian and Adriatic seas. The area around these medieval towns is sprinkled with castles, aristocratic palaces and delightful locations soaked in history and tradition, ridged with hills and valleys and marked by the ancient trails along which Hannibal and his legions marched when setting off to attack ancient Rome 2,000 years ago. One thousand years later Ariano Irpino was the first Norman county in Southern Italy and there King Roger II summoned the ''Assizes of Ariano'' in 1140. ==Eat== [[File:Mozzarella di bufala2.jpg|thumb|''Mozzarella di bufala'', "the queen of Mediterranean cuisine"]] Perhaps the Campania product most widely known is '''mozzarella di bufala''', with DOP awarded by the European Union. Due to vast market demand and the scarce number of water buffalo, it is also however a product at risk of a "bufala" (also Italian for scam). To avoid this, each wrapper carries the symbol of the protection consortium to guarantee its authenticity and geographic origin. The origin of the mozzarella – so called from the verb "mozzare" to cut – probably goes back to the 12th century, while the buffalo was already part of the Campanian landscape in the 7th century. The true characteristic of this fresh cheese with a delicate taste is its consistency, which should be firm, slightly elastic and chewy. When cut, the centre of a true mozzarella di bufala 'weeps': an interior still be slightly serous, protected by a thin skin and it should be smooth, but not viscous. It should be preserved in its liquid for no more than 48 hours, preferably not in the refrigerator but in a cool and airy place. As well as the characteristic round form it is produced in braids, knots, nuts and cherries and there is also a smoked version. Astride green Campanian Apennines, '''caciocavallo''' (a type of durable cow's milk mountain cheese) is renowned both in [[Irpinia]] and in [[Samnium]], whereas similar '''caciocchiato''' is from [[Ariano Irpino]] only. It is not possible to talk about Campania's gastronomy without mentioning '''pizza''', particularly '''pizza margherita'''. This palate's delight was born in Naples, and legend has it that it was created in honour of Italian Queen Margaret, though this is not true because the same toppings were used at least decades before Italian unification. Starting as a simple baked product, it became a fanciful, rich, surprising and always appreciated food. The region also makes delicious pastas and rich pastries. ==Drink== [[File:Capri - 7189.jpg|thumb|Limoncello bottles in Capri]] Local Campanian beverages include '''limoncello''' and crema di limone, both lemon-based. Limoncello has the highest alcohol content, is very strong in flavor, and is a very bright translucent yellow color. Crema di limone, as the name suggests, is cream-based. It is less strong than limoncello and is an opaque off-white. Beer is widely available in the cafes and ristoranti in Campania, though wine is more the local drink of choice with a meal, and Campanian wines are famous, delicious and often minerally, due to the terroir of the slopes of Mount Vesuvius. Prices in local groceries for a bottle of wine vary somewhere between EURO 4.50-100+, though they can be higher in particularly high-tourism areas. One local wine of Campania is '''Lacryma Christi''', or "Tears of Christ". This wine is produced on the lower slopes of Mount Vesuvius and is available at many groceries in Campania. For travelers going to the Mount Vesuvius National Park, this wine is available from some of the gift shops at the top at a deeply reduced rate compared with other stores in the area. Terraced land for grape cultivation is frequently visible in countryside of Campania. ==Stay safe== The notorious ''Camorra'' is never involved in crimes against tourists; however, be careful in certain areas, such as Naples' suburbs, especially Scampia and Secondigliano. Other big cities (Salerno, Caserta, Benevento and Avellino) are generally safer but Salerno and Caserta's suburbs can be dangerous, especially during the night. Smaller inland towns (within Samnium and [[Irpinia]] districts), Southern Campania (the Cilento area), the Sorrento Peninsula, [[Amalfi Coast]] and islands are safe, but you have to be careful about the condition of the roads. Road rules are not always respected, so be careful. LGBTQ+ people don't have many problems in big cities like Naples, Salerno and Caserta. Public displays of affection between LGBTQ+ couples are best avoided in rural areas (like Cilento), in small-to-medium-sized towns or in inner cities like Avellino and Benevento. ==Go next== Campania is a good base for exploring other regions of southern Italy such as [[Basilicata]], [[Calabria]] and [[Apulia]], as well as [[Sicily]]. [[Lazio]] and the capital, [[Rome]], are also easily accessible to the north. {{isPartOf|Southern Italy}} {{geo|40.83|14.6|zoom=10}} {{outlineregion}} dzvium1iawr6pbsfr05wkcu6ntixyse 0 5963 5091172 5059518 2025-07-11T03:01:16Z DaGizza 162256 5091172 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Caraiva banner.jpg|thumb|Caraíva}} [[Image:Pesca a mão em caraíva.jpg|thumb|325px|Fishing by hand in Caraíva]] '''Caraíva''' is a village in the south coast of [[Bahia]]. ==Get in== Caraíva is a piece of paradise situated about 50km south of Porto Seguro, and can be accessed by one of two dirt roads from Porto Seguro/Trancoso. There is a local bus service or you can negotiate with a taxi to take you there for a fixed price, or you can walk along the beaches from Trancoso, about 38km. The town is separated from the road by a river and there are no cars in the village itself; you have to get rowed across in a kind of canoe, which costs a couple of reais (the price is fixed). There is no electricity, although most bars and guesthouses have generators. It's an extremely rustic place in terms of infrastructure, but the beaches are fabulous, and the people, tourists and locals alike, are really laid back, even by Brazilian standards. There's no point in being rushed or getting impatient, things happen by a different clock here. A great place for taking it nice and slow. ==Get around== Only on foot. The 'streets' are of soft sand and tough going sometimes. Stick to the sides of the tracks where its not so soft and wear something on your feet, because the sand can get unbearably hot during the day, and "Bicho do Pe" a parasitic worm that burrows into the skin of your feet (not really harmful and easy to cure, but rather uncomfortable) is not entirely uncommon (but you shouldn't get paranoid about it). ==See== The Pataxó Indian village a few km walk down the beach to the south. A good opportunity to see how 'modern' Indians live. You can rent a horse and guide or just walk and go north to Praia do Espelho, one of the most beautiful beaches on the south coast of Bahia a few km to the north of Caraíva. In the high season, there are organized schooner trips to nearby beaches, including Espelho. These leave from around the river mouth, on the beach. They may not operate in the low season. ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== There are a number of bars. Because of a total lack of police in the village, it is normal for people to openly smoke marijuana while sitting in the bars and on the beaches. In fact, many people go there for this reason. ==Sleep== There are many guesthouses, at a variety of rates, and a camping ground. It would probably be a good idea to have a reservation if you're going for New Year, January or during the July school holidays (its a popular destination for teenagers on their school vacations). During the rest of the year its not necessary. * {{sleep | name=Pousada Mangue Sereno | url=http://manguesereno.blogspot.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+55 73 9991-1711 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=3 cottages, 150 m from the beach. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Marrom | url=http://www.caraiva.tur.br/casamarrom/index.htm {{dead link|May 2020|December 2020}} | email=roberto.henri@terra.com.br | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+55 13 9764-1098 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lagoa Pousada e Restaurante | url=http://www.lagoacaraiva.com.br/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+55 73 3668-5059, +55 73 9995-9759 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Close to a nice little lagoon. }} * {{sleep | name=Pousada Tatuassu | url=http://www.caraivapousadatatuassu.com/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=pousadatatuassu@hotmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+55 73 9985-5672, +55 11 2589-1902 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=5 suites with air-con or ceiling fan, breakfast, WiFi, adjacent Italian restaurant. }} ==Stay healthy== Don't drink the tap water and make certain that any drink made with water or that contains ice, like juice or caipirinha, is made with bottled water. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|South (Bahia)}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|-16.807|-39.154|zoom=13}} 8nxpwfv98stuq6ii86ep0vepolzfhuv 0 5996 5091080 5047588 2025-07-10T22:29:44Z Arcyqwerty 187163 typo 5091080 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Carcasssonne banner.jpg|caption=Medieval Cité of Carcassonne at night|unesco=yes}} '''Carcassonne''' is a city in southern [[France]], best known for its [[Unesco#France|UNESCO World Heritage]] listed walled city. It can be visited comfortably as a day trip. Among [[Board games|board game]] enthusiasts, the city may ring a bell as the inspiration for the 2000 German board game of the same name. ==Understand== [[File:Carcassonne cote3.jpg|300px|thumbnail|The medieval Cité de Carcassone]] Carcassonne is divided into two main parts: * The '''Cité de Carcassonne''', a [[Medieval Europe|medieval]] fortress settlement with a history that exceeds two and a half thousand years. Picturesque fortifications (over 3&nbsp;km of walls with 52 towers, ''[[Robin Hood tourism|Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves]]'' was partly shot here) were reconstructed by Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th century but, as with most monuments reconstructed in those times, authenticity was not the main objective. It is listed in the [[Unesco#France|UNESCO World Heritage List]]. * The town centre, known as the '''''ville basse''''' (literally 'lower city'), where the other sights and hotels are located. Carcassonne was one of the centers of the [[Cathars]] and was fought over during the Albigensian Crusade in the early 1200s; the Crusaders took it, the Cathars took it back, and the Crusaders took it again. ===Tourist information=== * {{listing | name=Destination Carcassonne | alt= | url=http://www.carcassonne-tourisme.com | email= | address=28 rue de Verdun | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 4 68 10 24 30 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} ==Get in== ===By train=== {{go | name=Gare de Carcassonne | alt=Carcassonne train station | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.218056 | long=2.351944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2130184 | content=Carcassonne is on the [[Bordeaux]]–[[Sète]] and Carcassonne–[[Rivesaltes]] SNCF lines. }} High speed '''TGV''' trains from [[Lyon]], [[Barcelona]] and [[Toulouse]] call at Carcassone. Slower '''Intercités''' between [[Bordeaux]], [[Marseille]] (and overnight '''Corail Lunéa''' couchette trains between [[Paris]] and [[Cerbère]] / [[Port-Bou]]) also stop. An extensive network of frequent, modern and comfortable regional services is provided by SNCF's TER Languedoc-Roussillon, with services to [[Toulouse]], [[Narbonne]], [[Marseille]], [[Cerbère]], [[Perpignan]], [[Limoux]] and [[Quillan]]. The train journey from [[Toulouse]] is around 1hr to 1hr 15min depending on the train type. ===By plane=== {{listing | type = go | name = Carcassonne Airport | alt = {{IATA|CCF}} | url = http://www.aeroport-carcassonne.com/en | email = | address = | lat = 43.215833 | long = 2.308611 | directions = 3&nbsp;km from the city centre | phone = | tollfree = | fax = | hours = | price = | wikipedia = Carcassonne Airport | image = Carcassonne aeroport Salveza2.jpg | wikidata = Q667181 | content = }} [http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair] serves the airport. A shuttle bus (''navette aéroport''; €5 per person) runs between the airport and Carcassonne town centre (SNCF railway station). Some shuttle buses also stop at the Cité. The shuttle bus timetable is available at the [http://www.aeroport-carcassonne.com/en/shuttle.html airport website]. A [[taxi]] between the airport and Carcassonne town centre costs around €10 to €15, whilst a taxi between the airport and the Cité costs around €15 to €20. Alternatively, you can fly into [[Toulouse#By plane|Toulouse Airport]]. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|43.2121|2.3536|zoom=13|layer=W|name=Map of Carcassonne}} {{mapshape}} The Cité is around 20 minutes by foot from the railway station. The main tourist sights in Carcassonne are situated within easy walking distance of each other. '''Tourist maps''' of Carcassonne are available from one of the three tourist information offices. There is one tourist information centre situated once you leave the railway station and cross the bridge, on the right-hand side of the road near the junction between Boulevard Omer Sarraut and Avenue Mal Joffre. There are also tourist information centres in the Cité and in the town centre at 28 rue de Verdun. There is a '''taxi''' stand outside the railway station. You can also book a taxi by calling {{phone|+33 4 68 71 50 50}}, which is the one single official hotline for booking all taxis in Carcassonne. For more information, visit the official website of the [http://www.taxi-carcassonne.fr Association of Carcassonne Radio Taxis]. There are no left '''luggage''' facilities at the train station, though you can leave your luggage at the Hotel La Bastide Saint Louis (42 rue Barbes 11000 Carcassonne; €3 for 1/2 day and €5 for 1 day), which is useful if you wish to visit Carcassonne before catching a flight from Carcassonne airport. ==See== [[File:France cite de carcassonne chateau comtal2.jpg|300px|thumbnail|Château Comtal]] [[File:Carcassonne - Cathédrale St-Michel.jpg|thumb|300px|Carcassonne Cathedral]] ===The Cité=== The Cité is the historic fortress (built upon ruins predating Christianity) that was featured in the movie ''Robin Hood - Prince of Thieves''. Around 20 minutes by foot from the railway station. For photographers, the best view of the citadel is from the Pont Neuf, not the Pont Vieux. * {{see | name=Château Comtal | alt= | url=https://www.remparts-carcassonne.fr | email= | address= | lat=43.207222 | long=2.363083 | directions= | phone=+33 4 68 11 70 70 | tollfree= | hours= | price={{EUR|13}}, audio guide €3 | wikidata=Q79501011 | lastedit=2025-01-31 | content=Castle and ramparts. While the castle is largely empty, the walk around the ramparts is spectacular. It is worth setting aside 1½-2 hours for the visit. }} * {{see | name=Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus | alt=Basilique Saint-Nazaire-et-Saint-Celse | url= wikidata=Q1841842 | email= | address= | lat=43.205292 | long=2.363057 | directions= | phone= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-11:45, 13:45-18:00; Su 09:00-10:45, 14:00-18:00 | price= | image=Basilique Saint-Nazaire de Carcassonne 2014-09-26 - i3121.jpg | lastedit=2021-08-25 | content=The original church is thought to have been constructed in the 6th century. The oldest parts of the current church date back to the 12th century, built in sandstone (exterior facing) in Romanesque style. }} * {{see | name=Torture Museum | alt=Châteaux Cathares et Instruments de Tortures | url= | email= | address=17 Rue du Grand Puits | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 4 68 26 95 22 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-04 | content=If you're up to it, this museum is also worth a visit. It's small but filled with torture instruments from the Middle Ages. Not for the squeamish! }} ===Lower town=== The ''ville basse'' dates to the Late Middle Ages. Founded as a settlement of the expelled inhabitants of the town sometime after the crusades, it has been the economic heart of the city for centuries. Though once walled, most of the walls in this portion of the town are no longer intact. * {{see | name=Carcassonne Cathedral | alt=Cathédrale Saint-Michel de Carcassonne | url= | email= | address=52 Rue Voltaire | lat=43.210833 | long=2.351111 | directions= | phone=+33 4 68 25 14 48 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Carcassonne Cathedral | wikidata=Q1736175 | lastedit=2016-11-04 | content=The city's magnificent cathedral. }} ==Do== * '''Medieval jousting displays''' are held twice a day between the two walls during the tournament in July and August. Whilst this may sound like a typical tourist activity, this is actually a very impressive and entertaining display of horsemanship and combative competition. Entry is €11 for adults as of Summer 2021. * '''[[Rugby football|Rugby league]]:''' [https://www.carcassonne13.fr AS Carcassone] play in Elite 1, the top French tier for 13-a-side rugby. Their home ground is Stade Albert Domec (capacity 10,000) on the east river bank in the lower town. The playing season is Sept-April. * {{do | name=Cité Ciné festival | alt= | url=https://festivalcitecine.com | email= | address= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Four days (including a weekend) in January | content=Mostly loosely political films for what is a mostly older, white, (upper) middle-class audience. }} * {{do | name=Festival de Carcassonne | alt= | url=http://www.festivaldecarcassonne.fr | email= | address= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Jul–Aug }} * Around half of July there is a huge firework show (the second biggest in France). * {{do | name=Domaine de Pommayrac | alt= | url=http://www.pommayrac.com | email= | address=Chemin de Pommayrac, Verzeille | lat=43.124818 | long=2.327191 | directions=in Verzeille, 12.5 km south of Carcassonne; from the village, follow signs for Centre équestre | phone=+33 4 68 69 49 60 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=horse trail riding and horseback lessons and courses, holiday accommodations, restaurant. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== [[File:Bowl of cassoulet.JPG|A bowl of cassoulet|thumb]] Don't leave Carcassonne without trying '''cassoulet''', a local dish made of beans, sausage and duck. '''Foie gras''' is also a speciality of the region, so expect it to be on many menus. There are bars around the train station that offer cheap eats. There are a few restaurants on rue Trivalle, the road that connects the town centre with the Cité. There are also quite a few restaurants clustered around the main square inside the Cité, the majority of which have outside tables so you can people-watch and enjoy the buzz of the square on summer evenings! As Carcassonne can get quite touristy during the summer season, restaurants can become crowded and the prices charged can be a bit over the top. You may therefore wish to eat away from the Cité, perhaps in the town centre instead, or better in one of the enchanting villages away from Carcassonne. ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Café Saillan | alt= | url= | email= | address=31 Rue du Dr Albert Tomey | lat=43.21252 | long=2.35049 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant Inter Administratif | alt= | url= | email= | address=37 Rue de la République | lat= 43.21412 | long=2.35155 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Comptoir Ludique | alt= | url= | email= | address=24 Rue de la République | lat=43.21423 | long=2.35122 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La P'tite Table | alt= | url= | email= | address=24 Rte Minervoise | lat= 43.21738 | long= 2.35356 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Délice Métisse | alt= | url= | email= | address=26 Rte Minervoise | lat=43.21747 | long= 2.35382 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Le Lotus d'Or | alt= | url= | email= | address=13 Rue Barbès | lat=43.21342 | long=2.35409 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Vietnamese. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Le Trivalou | alt= | url= | email= | address=69 Rue Trivalle | lat=43.20929 | long= 2.36372 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Has very friendly service and delicious home-made dishes, including cassoulet. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant Comte Roger | alt= | url= | email= | address=14 Rue Saint-Louis | lat=43.20619 | long=2.36337 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€25-35 | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant Au Four Saint Louis | alt= | url= | email= | address=4 Rue Saint-Louis | lat=43.20593 | long= 2.36323 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=French cuisine }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant le chaudron | alt= | url= | email= | address=6 Rue Saint-Jean | lat=43.20792 | long=2.36443 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} ===Splurge=== Budget permitting, there are several excellent restaurants inside the Cité, serving really good regional food. These all serve divine food and the service is, as you would expect, impeccable. * {{eat | name=La Barbacane | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pl. Auguste Pierre Pont | lat=43.20562 | long=2.36278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Barrière Truffes - l'Atelier de la Truffe | alt= | url= | email= | address=51 Rue Trivalle | lat=43.20912 | long=2.36299 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} ==Drink== Try the regional wines. Wines of the Grand Carcassonne region use six AOCs (Minervois, Minervois La Livinière, Corbières, Malepère, Cabardès and Languedoc) and four IGPs (Cité de Carcassonne, Coteaux de Peyriac, Aude and Pays d’Oc). * {{drink | name=Eurl le Bar a Vins | alt= | url= | email= | address=6 Rue du Plo | lat=43.205119 | long=2.364158 | directions= | phone=+33 4 68 47 38 38 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Nice, sheltered, relatively quiet place to grab an ice cream or drink. }} ==Sleep== It is advisable to book earlier if visiting Carcassonne during the high season. ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Hosteling International Carcassonne | alt= |url=http://www.hifrance.org/auberge-de-jeunesse/carcassonne.html?page=article {{dead link|April 2024}} | email= | address=Rue du Vicomte Trencavel, Cite Médiévale | lat=43.20650 | long=2.36407 | directions=in the medieval city | phone = +33 4 68 25 23 16 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Apr–Oct | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Good place to go on a budget. They offer various activities to guests. There is an extra fee for those who are not Hosteling International members. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Notre Dame de l'Abbaye | alt= | url=http://www.abbaye-carcassonne.com | email= | address= | lat=43.20922 | long=2.36598 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Offers moderately priced accommodation in a converted abbey building and is just outside the Cité. Free Wi-Fi and friendly English-speaking reception staff. }} * {{sleep | name=Camping de la Cité | alt= | url=http://www.campingcitecarcassonne.com/?lang=en | email= | address=Route de St Hilaire | lat=43.2008 | long=2.3541 | directions=by the river, signposted from the town centre | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Apr–Oct | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Good facilities (tennis grounds and pool) with a path running into the city. Gets fairly crowded in summer. }} * {{sleep | name=Carcassonne Porte de la Cite | alt=Mercure Hotel | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/1622/index.en.shtml | email=H1622@accor.com | address=18 rue Camille Saint-Saens | lat=43.20675 | long=2.36957 | directions=about 5 minutes' walk from the Cité | phone=+33 4 68 11 92 82 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From €97 per night | lastedit=2016-11-04 | content=Decent accommodation. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Hotel de la Cité | alt= | url=http://www.hoteldelacite.com | email= | address=Cite Medievale | lat=43.20574 | long=2.36261 | directions= | phone=+33 4 68 11 23 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=The most historical, luxurious (and most expensive) hotel in Carcassonne. Operated by Orient Express Hotels. }} ==Go next== * Much to see in this somewhat neglected region of France. Get into the hills and visit '''little villages''' like Minerve. Try using the Michelin maps but forsake the red roads and take to the little white roads. You will be rewarded by seeing lovely little places that tour buses etc. never visit. * There are regular '''barge trips''' along the historic [[Occitanie#By boat|Canal du Midi]], and these are a very relaxing way of spending some time. The boats leave from the jetty just outside the main train station, and tickets can be bought from clearly signposted vendors at the canal-side (just beside the lock). Multilingual commentary is provided on the history of the canal and the various sights along the way. * [[Limoux]] — Small town south of Carcassonne known for its sparkling wine and Le Carnaval de Limoux, which is a three-month carnival held each winter. * [[Toulouse]] — 4th largest city in France and a popular tourist destination, about 95 km north-west by road {{geo|43.213|2.352}} {{isPartOf|Aude}} {{outlinecity}} o6bvsdqu9n7x1f8ld93mw5grocywjyd 5091081 5091080 2025-07-10T22:31:31Z Arcyqwerty 187163 formatting 5091081 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Carcasssonne banner.jpg|caption=Medieval Cité of Carcassonne at night|unesco=yes}} '''Carcassonne''' is a city in southern [[France]], best known for its [[Unesco#France|UNESCO World Heritage]] listed walled city. It can be visited comfortably as a day trip. Among [[Board games|board game]] enthusiasts, the city may ring a bell as the inspiration for the 2000 German board game of the same name. ==Understand== [[File:Carcassonne cote3.jpg|300px|thumbnail|The medieval Cité de Carcassone]] Carcassonne is divided into two main parts: * The '''Cité de Carcassonne''', a [[Medieval Europe|medieval]] fortress settlement with a history that exceeds two and a half thousand years. Picturesque fortifications (over 3&nbsp;km of walls with 52 towers, ''[[Robin Hood tourism|Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves]]'' was partly shot here) were reconstructed by Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th century but, as with most monuments reconstructed in those times, authenticity was not the main objective. It is listed in the [[Unesco#France|UNESCO World Heritage List]]. * The town centre, known as the '''''ville basse''''' (literally 'lower city'), where the other sights and hotels are located. Carcassonne was one of the centers of the [[Cathars]] and was fought over during the Albigensian Crusade in the early 1200s; the Crusaders took it, the Cathars took it back, and the Crusaders took it again. ===Tourist information=== * {{listing | name=Destination Carcassonne | alt= | url=http://www.carcassonne-tourisme.com | email= | address=28 rue de Verdun | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 4 68 10 24 30 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} ==Get in== ===By train=== {{go | name=Gare de Carcassonne | alt=Carcassonne train station | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.218056 | long=2.351944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2130184 | content=Carcassonne is on the [[Bordeaux]]–[[Sète]] and Carcassonne–[[Rivesaltes]] SNCF lines. }} High speed '''TGV''' trains from [[Lyon]], [[Barcelona]] and [[Toulouse]] call at Carcassone. Slower '''Intercités''' between [[Bordeaux]], [[Marseille]] (and overnight '''Corail Lunéa''' couchette trains between [[Paris]] and [[Cerbère]] / [[Port-Bou]]) also stop. An extensive network of frequent, modern and comfortable regional services is provided by SNCF's TER Languedoc-Roussillon, with services to [[Toulouse]], [[Narbonne]], [[Marseille]], [[Cerbère]], [[Perpignan]], [[Limoux]] and [[Quillan]]. The train journey from [[Toulouse]] is around 1hr to 1hr 15min depending on the train type. ===By plane=== {{listing | type = go | name = Carcassonne Airport | alt = {{IATA|CCF}} | url = http://www.aeroport-carcassonne.com/en | email = | address = | lat = 43.215833 | long = 2.308611 | directions = 3&nbsp;km from the city centre | phone = | tollfree = | fax = | hours = | price = | wikipedia = Carcassonne Airport | image = Carcassonne aeroport Salveza2.jpg | wikidata = Q667181 | content = }} [http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair] serves the airport. A shuttle bus (''navette aéroport''; €5 per person) runs between the airport and Carcassonne town centre (SNCF railway station). Some shuttle buses also stop at the Cité. The shuttle bus timetable is available at the [http://www.aeroport-carcassonne.com/en/shuttle.html airport website]. A [[taxi]] between the airport and Carcassonne town centre costs around €10 to €15, whilst a taxi between the airport and the Cité costs around €15 to €20. Alternatively, you can fly into [[Toulouse#By plane|Toulouse Airport]]. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|43.2121|2.3536|zoom=13|layer=W|name=Map of Carcassonne}} {{mapshape}} The Cité is around 20 minutes by foot from the railway station. The main tourist sights in Carcassonne are situated within easy walking distance of each other. '''Tourist maps''' of Carcassonne are available from one of the three tourist information offices. There is one tourist information centre situated once you leave the railway station and cross the bridge, on the right-hand side of the road near the junction between Boulevard Omer Sarraut and Avenue Mal Joffre. There are also tourist information centres in the Cité and in the town centre at 28 rue de Verdun. There is a '''taxi''' stand outside the railway station. You can also book a taxi by calling {{phone|+33 4 68 71 50 50}}, which is the one single official hotline for booking all taxis in Carcassonne. For more information, visit the official website of the [http://www.taxi-carcassonne.fr Association of Carcassonne Radio Taxis]. There are no left '''luggage''' facilities at the train station, though you can leave your luggage at the Hotel La Bastide Saint Louis (42 rue Barbes 11000 Carcassonne; €3 for 1/2 day and €5 for 1 day), which is useful if you wish to visit Carcassonne before catching a flight from Carcassonne airport. ==See== [[File:France cite de carcassonne chateau comtal2.jpg|300px|thumbnail|Château Comtal]] [[File:Carcassonne - Cathédrale St-Michel.jpg|thumb|300px|Carcassonne Cathedral]] ===The Cité=== The Cité is the historic fortress (built upon ruins predating Christianity) that was featured in the movie ''Robin Hood - Prince of Thieves''. Around 20 minutes by foot from the railway station. For photographers, the best view of the citadel is from the Pont Neuf, not the Pont Vieux. * {{see | name=Château Comtal | alt= | url=https://www.remparts-carcassonne.fr | email= | address= | lat=43.207222 | long=2.363083 | directions= | phone=+33 4 68 11 70 70 | tollfree= | hours= | price={{EUR|13}}, audio guide €3 | wikidata=Q79501011 | lastedit=2025-01-31 | content=Castle and ramparts. While the castle is largely empty, the walk around the ramparts is spectacular. It is worth setting aside 1½-2 hours for the visit. }} * {{see | name=Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus | alt=Basilique Saint-Nazaire-et-Saint-Celse | url= | wikidata=Q1841842 | email= | address= | lat=43.205292 | long=2.363057 | directions= | phone= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-11:45, 13:45-18:00; Su 09:00-10:45, 14:00-18:00 | price= | image=Basilique Saint-Nazaire de Carcassonne 2014-09-26 - i3121.jpg | lastedit=2021-08-25 | content=The original church is thought to have been constructed in the 6th century. The oldest parts of the current church date back to the 12th century, built in sandstone (exterior facing) in Romanesque style. }} * {{see | name=Torture Museum | alt=Châteaux Cathares et Instruments de Tortures | url= | email= | address=17 Rue du Grand Puits | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 4 68 26 95 22 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-04 | content=If you're up to it, this museum is also worth a visit. It's small but filled with torture instruments from the Middle Ages. Not for the squeamish! }} ===Lower town=== The ''ville basse'' dates to the Late Middle Ages. Founded as a settlement of the expelled inhabitants of the town sometime after the crusades, it has been the economic heart of the city for centuries. Though once walled, most of the walls in this portion of the town are no longer intact. * {{see | name=Carcassonne Cathedral | alt=Cathédrale Saint-Michel de Carcassonne | url= | email= | address=52 Rue Voltaire | lat=43.210833 | long=2.351111 | directions= | phone=+33 4 68 25 14 48 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Carcassonne Cathedral | wikidata=Q1736175 | lastedit=2016-11-04 | content=The city's magnificent cathedral. }} ==Do== * '''Medieval jousting displays''' are held twice a day between the two walls during the tournament in July and August. Whilst this may sound like a typical tourist activity, this is actually a very impressive and entertaining display of horsemanship and combative competition. Entry is €11 for adults as of Summer 2021. * '''[[Rugby football|Rugby league]]:''' [https://www.carcassonne13.fr AS Carcassone] play in Elite 1, the top French tier for 13-a-side rugby. Their home ground is Stade Albert Domec (capacity 10,000) on the east river bank in the lower town. The playing season is Sept-April. * {{do | name=Cité Ciné festival | alt= | url=https://festivalcitecine.com | email= | address= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Four days (including a weekend) in January | content=Mostly loosely political films for what is a mostly older, white, (upper) middle-class audience. }} * {{do | name=Festival de Carcassonne | alt= | url=http://www.festivaldecarcassonne.fr | email= | address= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Jul–Aug }} * Around half of July there is a huge firework show (the second biggest in France). * {{do | name=Domaine de Pommayrac | alt= | url=http://www.pommayrac.com | email= | address=Chemin de Pommayrac, Verzeille | lat=43.124818 | long=2.327191 | directions=in Verzeille, 12.5 km south of Carcassonne; from the village, follow signs for Centre équestre | phone=+33 4 68 69 49 60 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=horse trail riding and horseback lessons and courses, holiday accommodations, restaurant. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== [[File:Bowl of cassoulet.JPG|A bowl of cassoulet|thumb]] Don't leave Carcassonne without trying '''cassoulet''', a local dish made of beans, sausage and duck. '''Foie gras''' is also a speciality of the region, so expect it to be on many menus. There are bars around the train station that offer cheap eats. There are a few restaurants on rue Trivalle, the road that connects the town centre with the Cité. There are also quite a few restaurants clustered around the main square inside the Cité, the majority of which have outside tables so you can people-watch and enjoy the buzz of the square on summer evenings! As Carcassonne can get quite touristy during the summer season, restaurants can become crowded and the prices charged can be a bit over the top. You may therefore wish to eat away from the Cité, perhaps in the town centre instead, or better in one of the enchanting villages away from Carcassonne. ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Café Saillan | alt= | url= | email= | address=31 Rue du Dr Albert Tomey | lat=43.21252 | long=2.35049 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant Inter Administratif | alt= | url= | email= | address=37 Rue de la République | lat= 43.21412 | long=2.35155 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Comptoir Ludique | alt= | url= | email= | address=24 Rue de la République | lat=43.21423 | long=2.35122 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La P'tite Table | alt= | url= | email= | address=24 Rte Minervoise | lat= 43.21738 | long= 2.35356 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Délice Métisse | alt= | url= | email= | address=26 Rte Minervoise | lat=43.21747 | long= 2.35382 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Le Lotus d'Or | alt= | url= | email= | address=13 Rue Barbès | lat=43.21342 | long=2.35409 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Vietnamese. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Le Trivalou | alt= | url= | email= | address=69 Rue Trivalle | lat=43.20929 | long= 2.36372 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Has very friendly service and delicious home-made dishes, including cassoulet. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant Comte Roger | alt= | url= | email= | address=14 Rue Saint-Louis | lat=43.20619 | long=2.36337 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€25-35 | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant Au Four Saint Louis | alt= | url= | email= | address=4 Rue Saint-Louis | lat=43.20593 | long= 2.36323 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=French cuisine }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant le chaudron | alt= | url= | email= | address=6 Rue Saint-Jean | lat=43.20792 | long=2.36443 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} ===Splurge=== Budget permitting, there are several excellent restaurants inside the Cité, serving really good regional food. These all serve divine food and the service is, as you would expect, impeccable. * {{eat | name=La Barbacane | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pl. Auguste Pierre Pont | lat=43.20562 | long=2.36278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Barrière Truffes - l'Atelier de la Truffe | alt= | url= | email= | address=51 Rue Trivalle | lat=43.20912 | long=2.36299 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} ==Drink== Try the regional wines. Wines of the Grand Carcassonne region use six AOCs (Minervois, Minervois La Livinière, Corbières, Malepère, Cabardès and Languedoc) and four IGPs (Cité de Carcassonne, Coteaux de Peyriac, Aude and Pays d’Oc). * {{drink | name=Eurl le Bar a Vins | alt= | url= | email= | address=6 Rue du Plo | lat=43.205119 | long=2.364158 | directions= | phone=+33 4 68 47 38 38 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Nice, sheltered, relatively quiet place to grab an ice cream or drink. }} ==Sleep== It is advisable to book earlier if visiting Carcassonne during the high season. ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Hosteling International Carcassonne | alt= |url=http://www.hifrance.org/auberge-de-jeunesse/carcassonne.html?page=article {{dead link|April 2024}} | email= | address=Rue du Vicomte Trencavel, Cite Médiévale | lat=43.20650 | long=2.36407 | directions=in the medieval city | phone = +33 4 68 25 23 16 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Apr–Oct | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Good place to go on a budget. They offer various activities to guests. There is an extra fee for those who are not Hosteling International members. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Notre Dame de l'Abbaye | alt= | url=http://www.abbaye-carcassonne.com | email= | address= | lat=43.20922 | long=2.36598 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Offers moderately priced accommodation in a converted abbey building and is just outside the Cité. Free Wi-Fi and friendly English-speaking reception staff. }} * {{sleep | name=Camping de la Cité | alt= | url=http://www.campingcitecarcassonne.com/?lang=en | email= | address=Route de St Hilaire | lat=43.2008 | long=2.3541 | directions=by the river, signposted from the town centre | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Apr–Oct | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Good facilities (tennis grounds and pool) with a path running into the city. Gets fairly crowded in summer. }} * {{sleep | name=Carcassonne Porte de la Cite | alt=Mercure Hotel | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/1622/index.en.shtml | email=H1622@accor.com | address=18 rue Camille Saint-Saens | lat=43.20675 | long=2.36957 | directions=about 5 minutes' walk from the Cité | phone=+33 4 68 11 92 82 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From €97 per night | lastedit=2016-11-04 | content=Decent accommodation. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Hotel de la Cité | alt= | url=http://www.hoteldelacite.com | email= | address=Cite Medievale | lat=43.20574 | long=2.36261 | directions= | phone=+33 4 68 11 23 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=The most historical, luxurious (and most expensive) hotel in Carcassonne. Operated by Orient Express Hotels. }} ==Go next== * Much to see in this somewhat neglected region of France. Get into the hills and visit '''little villages''' like Minerve. Try using the Michelin maps but forsake the red roads and take to the little white roads. You will be rewarded by seeing lovely little places that tour buses etc. never visit. * There are regular '''barge trips''' along the historic [[Occitanie#By boat|Canal du Midi]], and these are a very relaxing way of spending some time. The boats leave from the jetty just outside the main train station, and tickets can be bought from clearly signposted vendors at the canal-side (just beside the lock). Multilingual commentary is provided on the history of the canal and the various sights along the way. * [[Limoux]] — Small town south of Carcassonne known for its sparkling wine and Le Carnaval de Limoux, which is a three-month carnival held each winter. * [[Toulouse]] — 4th largest city in France and a popular tourist destination, about 95 km north-west by road {{geo|43.213|2.352}} {{isPartOf|Aude}} {{outlinecity}} 4d4mvgt6rp98zbenbt7wmm0op3sojl6 0 6600 5090782 5073099 2025-07-10T13:07:29Z Lucas.travels113 2329222 /* Cities */ Updated listing for [[San Ramon (Costa Rica)|San Ramon]] 5090782 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Central Valley (Costa Rica) banner Orosí Valley.jpg|pgname=Central Valley|caption=Orosí Valley}} [[File:Front of National Theater in San Jose Costa Rica night.jpg|thumb|Teatro Nacional in downtown San José]] [[Costa Rica]]'s '''Central Valley''' is the most populated region of the country; the capital city, San José, is there and so is the Juan Santamaría airport. The Central Valley includes charming small towns, towering volcanoes, and dense jungle landscapes like the huge [[Braulio Carrillo National Park]]. ==Cities== {{mapframe}} * {{listing | type=city | name=[[San José (Costa Rica)|San José]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=9.933333 | long=-84.083333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=San José, Costa Rica | image=San Jose,.JPG | wikidata=Q3070 | content=Costa Rica's capital city is an interesting urbanscape and cultural hub with museums, good restaurants, and easy access to transportation services going anywhere in the country. }} * {{listing | type=city | name=[[Alajuela]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=10.016667 | long=-84.216667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alajuela | image=La Iglesia Central de Alajuela.jpg | wikidata=Q37104 | content=Not to be missed for the volcano and national parks nearby. Also a convenient hub when arriving and leaving Costa Rica via San Jose. }} * {{listing | type=city | name=[[Atenas]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=9.9833 | long=-84.3833 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Atenas | image=Iglesia Atenas.jpg | wikidata=Q973817 | content=It had been ranked as the best weather worldwide. Atenas town is well known by the American community here. It is on the way to the central Pacific beaches becoming a mandatory stop on the way to Jaco or Manuel Antonio National Park. }} * {{listing | type=city | name=[[Cartago]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=9.866667 | long=-83.916667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cartago, Costa Rica | image=Basilica de los Angeles.jpg | wikidata=Q30617 | content=Historical city that was once Costa Rica's capital. Pilgrims flock to the Basilica de los Angeles, seeking the church's healing waters and praying for a miracle to cure their ailments. }} * {{listing | type=city | name=[[Heredia]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=9.996389 | long=-84.116667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Heredia, Costa Rica | image=ParqueCentralDeHeredia.JPG | wikidata=Q30616 | content=Provincial capital of Heredia province and home to the National University of Costa Rica. 10km north of San Jose. }} * {{listing | type=city | name=[[San Ramon (Costa Rica)|San Ramon]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=10.086989 | long=-84.470008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=San Ramón, Costa Rica | image=Moncho Vista.jpg | wikidata=Q535835 | content=Rural municipality northwest of San Jose known for cultural heritage (notable poets and three former presidents) and agriculture - particularly coffee production. San Ramon serves as a gateway to the Central Valley's natural beauty. }} * {{listing | type=city | name=[[Turrialba]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=9.9 | long=-83.6833 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Turrialba | image=Municipalidad de Turrialba.JPG | wikidata=Q2625953 | content=Food bowl of Costa Rica and adventure sports mecca. }} ==Other destinations== * {{listing | type=vicinity | name=[[Aguacate Mountains Biological Corridor]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long=-1 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Grecia, Costa Rica | image=Metalchurchingreciacostarica.jpg | wikidata=Q2079294 | content= }} * {{listing | type=vicinity | name=[[Grecia]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=10.072222 | long=-84.311111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Grecia, Costa Rica | image=Metalchurchingreciacostarica.jpg | wikidata=Q2079294 | content= }} * {{listing|type=vicinity | name=[[Providencia (Costa Rica)|Providencia]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=a great spot for climbers and mountain-bikers | wikidata=Q14230178}} * {{listing | type=vicinity | name=[[Santa Elena (Costa Rica)| Santa Elena]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=10.3175 | long=-84.824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q11999560 | content= }} * {{listing | type=vicinity | name=[[San Gerardo de Dota]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=9.5477 | long=-83.8114 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q14232137 | content= }} * {{marker|type=vicinity |name=[[Tapantí National Park]]|wikidata=Q4552264}} &ndash; huge protected area of mountainous rain forest, a magnet for eco-tourism * {{marker|type=vicinity |name=[[La Cangreja National Park]]|wikidata=Q4552189}} &ndash; mountainous rain forest providing critical bird habitat ===Itineraries=== * '''[[Camino de Costa Rica]]''' - 170 km route from Atlantic to Pacific, passing through beaches, swamps, rainforests and mountains * '''[[El Camino del Cielo y Colibríes]]''' - A scenic drive through the [[Aguacate Mountains Biological Corridor]] between the towns of Berlin de San Ramon and Llano Brenes. Known for its spectacular views and bird watching. This route travels down a mountain ridge through several eco-zones. ==Understand== The Valley of [[South Pacific Costa Rica|Pérez Zeledon]] is one of the most intensive cultivated areas of Costa Rica. Several indigenous communities, like [[Terraba]] or [[Boruca]], inhabit and cultivate land in this region. Most of the factories and services industries companies are also in the area; therefore, a lot of sleeper towns and cities surround and permeate the Central Valley. Still, there are many historical sights and because of the small size of the country, this area is the starting point of the many adventures available in the rest of the country. ==Get in== ===By bus=== If coming from [[San Carlos (Nicaragua)]] a change of bus in [[Ciudad Quesada]] may be necessary. ===By plane=== * {{listing|type=go | name=San José Juan Santamaria Airport | alt={{IATA|SJO}} | url=http://www.fly2sanjose.com/ | email= | address= | lat=9.993889 | long=-84.208889 | directions=actually in nearby [[Alajuela]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Juan Santamaría International Airport | image=TACA airplanes SJO 04 2005.jpg | wikidata=Q555940 | content=This is Costa Rica's premier international airport and offers a wide variety of connections. }} ==Get around== ===By train=== The Costa Rican railway network was never all that extensive and has suffered in the 20th century, but in the Central Valley government investment in the 21st century has helped build a small network mostly aimed at commuters. ==See== ==Do== * {{listing | type=do | name=[[Braulio Carrillo National Park]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=10.1599 | long=-83.974425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Braulio Carrillo National Park | wikidata=Q1757413 | lastedit=2019-03-12 | content=Popular for the Holdridge's toad, the solitary eagle, the bare-necked umbrella bird, as well as several species of hummingbirds. It also has several different micro climates. There are several hiking trails in the park. The longest one from Puesto Barva to La Selva is a difficult and 4-day long trail. But there are other shorter trails include Los Botarramas and El Ciebo available. }} * {{do | name=Poás Volcano National Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=10.198 | long=-84.231 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8AM-3:30PM, 365 days | price=US$15 (online ticket exclusively) | wikipedia=Poás Volcano National Park | image=Poas crater.jpg | wikidata=Q773878 | content=The park is a popular destination for both foreign and Costa Rican tourists. Poás allows tourists to see into the crater of an active volcano. You can often smell sulfur from the crater while visiting the peak, and a couple of hiking trails to see '''Lake Botos''', an acid water lake on a dormant crater.<br/>There are many guided tours offered to the volcano through private tour companies or you can catch a daily "tourist" bus provided by the TUASA bus company. The {{marker|type=go|name=TUASA bus to Poás|lat=10.0149079|long=-84.2161471}} will take you to the top of the volcano and then return you to Alajuela after several hours&mdash;leaves at 9AM, return 12:30PM or 2:30PM (ask!), US$3 return.<br/>Make sure the volcano is not closed due to activity. Probably, it is best to buy the ticket during the bus ride to the volcano (if possible) or at most a day before. The bus driver will know whether it is closed or not. Getting a refund, if the volcano is closed, seems not properly working. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Freddo Fresas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Route 146 | lat=10.157139 | long=-84.195668 | directions= | phone=+506 2482-2800 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Traditional restaurant going to Poás Volcano, their strawberry dishes, made with the local berries, are the treat of the place. }} * {{eat | name=Colinas del Poás | alt= | url=http://www.colinasdelpoas.com/ | email= | address=Route 146 | lat=10.156650 | long=-84.191926 | directions= | phone=+506 2482-1212 | tollfree= | hours=8AM-4PM | price= | content=Restaurant and a lot of activities to do in this recreational park. }} * {{eat | name=Jaulares | alt= | url=http://www.jaulares.com/ {{dead link|August 2020|December 2020}} | email=info@aulares.com | address= | lat=10.141335 | long=-84.194761 | directions= | phone=+506 2482-2155 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Buffet restaurant and private cabins accommodation. }} ==Drink== * '''Agua Dulce''' - A common drink in the sugar-cane growing regions of Costa Rica such as the Central Valley. This is a sweet drink made from the cane and a favorite of children. ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Villa Calas | alt= | url=http://www.villacalas.com/ | email=villacalas@gmail.com | address=Route 120 | lat=10.158563 | long=-84.172064 | directions=Between Poasito and Vara Blanca | phone=+506 2482-2222 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Chalet-style rooms and restaurant near Poás Volcano. }} ==Go next== * [[ Limón (Province, Costa Rica)|Limon Province]] * [[North Costa Rica]] * [[Central Pacific (Costa Rica)|Central Pacific]] {{outlineregion}} {{isPartOf|Costa Rica}} {{geo|9.866667|-84.216667|zoom=10}} ewdtrjeg74mcdcd923a9fhq7weve1jx 0 7189 5091084 5042386 2025-07-10T22:55:53Z CommonsDelinker 1301297 Replacing Soldier_field_2006.jpg with [[File:Soldier_Field_during_Chicago_Bears_home_game_against_the_San_Francisco_49ers_on_October_29,_2006.jpg]] (by [[:c:User:CommonsDelinker|CommonsDelinker]] because: [[:c:COM:FR|File renamed]]: more descriptive filen 5091084 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner|Near South-banner1.jpg|pgname=Near South|caption=The Lakeside Press Building, a.k.a. the Calumet Plant}} The '''Near South''' is the home of several of [[Chicago]]'s main attractions: the splendid '''Museum Campus''', with three world-class (and fun!) natural science museums on the lakefront; '''Soldier Field''', home of the NFL's Chicago Bears; and '''McCormick Place''', the city's massive convention center. There's more to be found at the street level, though, which includes the fascinating and eerie '''Prairie Avenue''', the eclectic '''Printer's Row''', and the condo towers of the '''South Loop'''. Also, there are a couple of major '''jazz''' and '''blues''' landmarks in the area, which is bounded by Harrison St to the north, the Chicago River and Clark St/Federal St to the west, 26th St to the south, and Lake Michigan to the east. ==Understand== [[Image:Shedd Aquarium.jpg|thumb|350px|Shedd Aquarium on Lake Michigan]] The neighborhoods of the Near South are among the oldest settlements in Chicago. They were once the most prestigious — and notorious — in the entire city. After being forgotten for several decades, they have been re-discovered and are buzzing with new activity. '''Prairie Avenue''', in particular, was ''the'' prestige address of Gilded Age Chicago, when the city was building fortunes at a rate unlike any the world had ever seen. At the time of the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893, held a few miles to the [[Chicago/Hyde Park|south]], 75 of the world's richest men lived on "Millionaire's Row," in mansions with gas-lit grand ballrooms, golden chandeliers, and no pretense of modesty. Eventually, the city's elite moved to the [[Chicago/Near North|Gold Coast]], and the area fell into rapid decline; soon, it was all but abandoned. Today, of the eleven surviving residences on Prairie Avenue, nine are protected as Chicago landmarks. This is the Gilded Age as if the millionaires simply got up and left, leaving their mansions to weather the elements for over a hundred years. The '''Museum Campus''' was born shortly before the 1933 World's Fair, as Chicago's business community set about to recapture the energy of the landmark 1893 Exposition. The Field Museum had opened in the building that now houses the [[Chicago/Hyde Park#See|Museum of Science and Industry]], and moved to this choice location by the lake in 1921, soon to be joined by the Adler Planetarium and the Shedd Aquarium, each of which boasts world-class collections within their respective fields. They are housed in beautiful, historic buildings along the lakefront, making a stroll through the area worth your time even if your budget won't let you through the front gates. '''Printer's Row''' is a small and surprisingly tight-knit neighborhood just south of the Loop, centered around Harrison and Dearborn. In its early days, as an off-shoot of the infamous Levee District a few blocks south, it was the yin to Prairie Avenue's yang. In time, crusaders managed to force the closure of the bordellos and gambling houses, and Printer's Row earned its current, more respectable name, from its role as the center of Chicago's publishing industry. The area fell into disuse, but then fortunes changed again; those warehouses and publishing houses became perfect stock for conversion to trendy loft residences. It has a reputation as an eclectic home to artists and writers, who moved in to enjoy the cheap downtown real estate along Dearborn. To be sure, the outrageous boom in downtown Chicago property values is bringing in a more white-collar crowd of lawyers and traders, but the neighborhood retains some of its eclectic, book-loving feel. It's a pleasant evening alternative to the [[Chicago/Near North|Near North]] if you are looking for a helping of Chicago blues or an interesting restaurant. Similarly, the '''South Loop''' was once as busy as the rest of the [[Chicago/Loop|Loop]], and then, as development shifted northward, it became known as the place where the hustle and bustle of the Loop trailed off, a quiet zone between [[Chicago/Bronzeville|Bronzeville]] and the central business district. Today, however, it's something else entirely — a mad rush of new construction has overtaken the place, with historic stone edifices interspersed among new steel-and-glass towers in varying stages of readiness, and trendy restaurants to exercise the wallets of the people who live there. ==Get in== {{mapframe|align=right|width=500|height=300|zoom=14|41.8601|-87.6231}} {{Mapmask |41.8754,-87.6361 |41.8756,-87.6244 |41.8731,-87.6244 |41.8732,-87.6162 |41.8689,-87.6162 |41.8689,-87.6161 |41.8688,-87.6159 |41.8685,-87.6155 |41.8684,-87.6154 |41.8683,-87.6153 |41.8683,-87.6147 |41.8684,-87.6146 |41.8685,-87.6143 |41.8685,-87.6140 |41.8685,-87.6134 |41.8685,-87.6132 |41.8684,-87.6130 |41.8683,-87.6127 |41.8682,-87.6126 |41.8680,-87.6125 |41.8678,-87.6124 |41.8676,-87.6123 |41.8675,-87.6123 |41.8673,-87.6124 |41.8671,-87.6125 |41.8670,-87.6127 |41.8667,-87.6127 |41.8668,-87.6107 |41.8668,-87.6107 |41.8669,-87.6077 |41.8671,-87.6075 |41.8672,-87.6072 |41.8673,-87.6068 |41.8672,-87.6064 |41.8671,-87.6061 |41.8669,-87.6058 |41.8666,-87.6057 |41.8663,-87.6056 |41.8661,-87.6056 |41.8658,-87.6058 |41.8657,-87.6060 |41.8648,-87.6060 |41.8648,-87.6063 |41.8649,-87.6063 |41.8650,-87.6066 |41.8650,-87.6068 |41.8649,-87.6070 |41.8646,-87.6072 |41.8642,-87.6073 |41.8639,-87.6073 |41.8632,-87.6071 |41.8628,-87.6070 |41.8625,-87.6068 |41.8622,-87.6066 |41.8622,-87.6065 |41.8621,-87.6064 |41.8621,-87.6060 |41.8601,-87.6059 |41.8600,-87.6060 |41.8600,-87.6062 |41.8600,-87.6066 |41.8600,-87.6069 |41.8598,-87.6070 |41.8534,-87.6065 |41.8532,-87.6088 |41.8532,-87.6093 |41.8534,-87.6096 |41.8537,-87.6099 |41.8540,-87.6099 |41.8564,-87.6095 |41.8566,-87.6094 |41.8568,-87.6093 |41.8571,-87.6095 |41.8574,-87.6098 |41.8577,-87.6100 |41.8580,-87.6100 |41.8584,-87.6099 |41.8587,-87.6099 |41.8590,-87.6101 |41.8592,-87.6104 |41.8593,-87.6105 |41.8594,-87.6105 |41.8596,-87.6104 |41.8598,-87.6104 |41.8601,-87.6104 |41.8602,-87.6106 |41.8602,-87.6107 |41.8606,-87.6108 |41.8607,-87.6105 |41.8608,-87.6105 |41.8609,-87.6104 |41.8609,-87.6104 |41.8611,-87.6104 |41.8611,-87.6104 |41.8614,-87.6104 |41.8631,-87.6097 |41.8636,-87.6097 |41.8642,-87.6098 |41.8653,-87.6104 |41.8653,-87.6105 |41.8658,-87.6105 |41.8658,-87.6127 |41.8653,-87.6127 |41.8653,-87.6127 |41.8645,-87.6131 |41.8638,-87.6133 |41.8632,-87.6135 |41.8627,-87.6134 |41.8619,-87.6130 |41.8614,-87.6127 |41.8614,-87.6125 |41.8608,-87.6126 |41.8608,-87.6125 |41.8608,-87.6125 |41.8607,-87.6124 |41.8607,-87.6123 |41.8606,-87.6122 |41.8602,-87.6122 |41.8601,-87.6123 |41.8601,-87.6124 |41.8600,-87.6125 |41.8592,-87.6122 |41.8586,-87.6122 |41.8585,-87.6123 |41.8585,-87.6126 |41.8583,-87.6128 |41.8578,-87.6130 |41.8571,-87.6131 |41.8562,-87.6128 |41.8557,-87.6124 |41.8551,-87.6114 |41.8548,-87.6110 |41.8544,-87.6109 |41.8540,-87.6110 |41.8534,-87.6109 |41.8528,-87.6105 |41.8520,-87.6100 |41.8514,-87.6095 |41.8511,-87.6093 |41.8506,-87.6092 |41.8493,-87.6094 |41.8488,-87.6096 |41.8480,-87.6095 |41.8476,-87.6093 |41.8468,-87.6087 |41.8463,-87.6084 |41.8459,-87.6084 |41.8456,-87.6298 |41.8578,-87.6301 |41.8578,-87.6342 |41.8645,-87.6341 |41.8674,-87.6344 |41.8684,-87.6345 |41.8699,-87.6346 |41.8700,-87.6347 |41.8700,-87.6347 |41.8707,-87.6349 |41.8708,-87.6349 |41.8743,-87.6356 |41.8751,-87.6359 |41.8754,-87.6361}} {{Mapshapes|Q820880}} <!-- L --> {{Mapshapes|Q1814208}} <!-- Metra --> {{infobox|Printable Maps|[[:File:Near south map.png|Map of the Near South area]]}} ===By train=== The CTA Red Line stops near Printer's Row (Harrison) and in the South Loop (Roosevelt/State, Cermak-Chinatown). Printer's Row is within reach of the Blue Line (LaSalle/Congress), too. The South Loop is also served by the Orange Line (Roosevelt/Wabash) and the Green Line (Roosevelt/Wabash, Cermak-McCormick Place). Both stations on Roosevelt are within walking distance of the Museum Campus, although buses and free trolleys also run the route. ===By bus=== The CTA runs a few convenient buses through the area: * '''4 Cottage Grove''' is a convenient north/south route along Michigan Ave, which leads to and from the South Side along Dr Martin Luther King Jr Dr, and Cottage Grove Ave. * '''6 Jeffrey Express''' comes from the South Side along Lake Shore Dr and stops at Roosevelt and Congress, which is close enough to reach the major attractions. * '''12 Roosevelt''' meets the CTA train stations and runs down Roosevelt to the edge of the Campus. * '''130 Grant Park''' runs directly from Union Station in the [[Chicago/Loop|Loop]] during the summer. * '''146 Michigan''' is a tourist favorite, running southbound from Michigan Avenue in the [[Chicago/Near North|Near North]], though the Loop and past Grant Park, and arrives at Soldier Field and the Museum Campus. <!--PRINT [[Image:Near south map.png|]] PRINT--> ===By car=== Don't drive to the Near South without a good reason; parking is scarce and often expensive, especially around Soldier Field, the Museum Campus, and McCormick Center. If you choose to drive, '''Lake Shore Drive''' is the key artery from the north or south, passing Soldier Field, McCormick Place, and the Museum Campus. Exits are clearly marked with lists of attractions. For the Museum Campus and Soldier Field, exit at 18th Street/McFetridge Drive. Coming from the [[Chicago/Loop|Loop]] to the north and [[Chicago/Bronzeville|Bronzeville]] to the south, '''Michigan Avenue''' runs through the commercial and residential center of the area. Coming along the Stevenson Expressway, there are exits on to State Street, King Drive, and Lake Shore Drive. In Printer's Row and the South Loop, parking is more or less what you would expect in the [[Chicago/Loop|Loop]] — look for a multi-story garage and expect to pay over $10 for a couple of hours. For the museums and McCormick Place, parking is available at public lots for $15 on days without special events, and totally unavailable on Sunday home games for the Bears; in that case, you'd be much better advised to come back another day. ===By boat=== For those coming to the Near South from the Loop, specifically Navy Pier, the water taxi operated by Shoreline Sightseeing is an attractive option. Good views, rarely crowded and a lake breeze; plus it drops off right at Museum Campus. Only runs during warmer weather months (April-October), but departures are frequent while it is in service (every 20 or so minutes). Monday-Thursday: $8, $4 children. Friday-Sunday and holidays: $10, $5 children. Also connects to a few stops on the Chicago River. ==See== ===Museum Campus=== [[Image:Shedd dolphin show.jpg|thumb|250px|The ever popular dolphin show at Shedd Aquarium]] All three museums are within a short, pleasant walk from each other, even with toddlers and strollers in tow, so it's worth setting aside an entire day for your visit. Try to get your tickets in advance, though, as lines can be ''hellacious''. All three museums sell tickets on-line, eliminating the wait. The two major discount packages, '''[http://citypass.com/city/chicago.html CityPass]''' and '''[http://gochicagocard.com/ Go Chicago Card]''', may come in handy if you're planning to visit all three, but they do not necessarily cover admission to special exhibits. If you're staying with family and you can pass for Aunt Millie or Uncle Chuck, borrow their ID; Chicago residents receive a discount with proof of residency (usually $2 or so). Mondays and Tuesday are sometimes discounted, depending on the season. * {{see | name=Adler Planetarium | alt= | url=http://www.adlerplanetarium.org | email= | address=1300 S Lake Shore Dr | lat=41.866153 | long=-87.606675 | directions= | phone=+1 312-922-7827 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 10AM-4PM, Sa Su 10AM-4:30PM | price=General admission $19 adult, $8 children or $35/$28 including shows | wikipedia=Adler Planetarium | image=Adler external 1.jpg | wikidata=Q358052 | content=It's the smallest of the three museums, but the oldest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere still packs a lot of fun. There are some interactive exhibits on the second floor, a scale model of the solar system, a few space rocks, and two high-tech dome theaters with nifty "star shows" throughout the day. Adler After Dark, on the third Thursday of each month, runs 6PM-10PM and features cocktails, a DJ, and wild, unfettered use of telescopes. }} [[Image:Sue, Field Museum of Natural History.JPG|thumb|250px|Sue, Field Museum of Natural History]] * {{see | name=Field Museum of Natural History | alt= | url=http://www.fieldmuseum.org | email= | address=1400 S Lake Shore Dr | lat=41.866278 | long=-87.617039 | directions= | phone=+1 312-922-9410 | tollfree= | hours=9AM-5PM daily, last admission 4PM; closed Dec 25 | price=General admission $30 adults, $23 children, $27 students; Admission including some/all special exhibits is $43 adults, $32 children, $38 students | wikipedia=Field Museum of Natural History | image=FieldMuseum.jpg | wikidata=Q1122595 | content=The largest museum on the campus; highlights include SUE, the largest ''Tyrannosaurus Rex'' skeleton in the world, and the man-eating Tsavo lions. Part of the collection came directly from the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition, adding a layer of intrigue to all of those dusty old animals. Another highlight is the great, kid-friendly Egyptian exhibit, and the Hall of Gems will impress, too. Traveling exhibitions tend to be excellent, so this is one place where it's worth shelling out for the extra shows. }} * {{see | name=John G. Shedd Aquarium | alt= | url=http://www.sheddaquarium.org | email= | address=1200 S Lake Shore Dr | lat=41.867778 | long=-87.613889 | directions= | phone=+1 312-939-2438 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9AM-5PM, Sa Su 9AM-6PM; July/August 8AM-6PM | price=Admission from $37.20 adults and $27.95 children, plus extra for special exhibits | wikipedia=Shedd Aquarium | image=Shedd Aquarium Front 1.JPG | wikidata=Q2166515 | content=Home to a massive collection of marine life from throughout the world, among the very best you'll ever see. The Pacific Northwest-themed Oceanarium features otters, beluga whales, and a panoramic view of Lake Michigan, although you'll need to arrive extremely early for the (free) dolphin show. The terrific new Wild Reef exhibit offers floor-to-ceiling windows for an extraordinary view of a Philippine coral reef environment, complete with dozens of sharks. }} ===Prairie Avenue=== [[Image:Dearborn Station 060409.jpg|thumb|230px|Dearborn Station]] The Prairie Avenue Historic District includes the 1800 and 1900 blocks of South Prairie, the 1800 block of South Indiana and 211 through 217 East Cullerton. Neighborhood tours are led by the Glessner House Museum a few times each year. If you happen to be in the area on Halloween, move heaven and earth to join the evening ghost tour, which roams through the Glessner House, meeting a magician a few times along the way, and then heads out to the wonderfully spooky street for a walking tour. * {{see | name=The Clarke House Museum | alt= | url=http://clarkehousemuseum.org/ | email= | address=1827 S Indiana Ave | lat=41.8571 | long=-87.6219 | directions= | phone=+1 312-745-0041, +1 312-326-1480 (for tours) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tours W-Su noon & 2PM | price=$10 adults, $9 students/senior, $5 children; add $5 to visit the Glessner House as well. Wednesdays free | wikipedia=Henry B. Clarke House | wikidata=Q3132596 | content=Built in 1836, this unassuming little white house is the oldest surviving structure in Chicago. Tours are available through the Glessner House, but it's free to walk around the lovely Women's Park & Gardens that surround it. }} * {{see | name=The Glessner House Museum | alt= | url=http://glessnerhouse.org/ | email= | address=1800 S Prairie Ave | lat=41.857608 | long=-87.62105 | directions= | phone=+1 312-326-1480 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tours W-Su 1PM & 3PM | price=$10 adults, $9 students/senior, $6 children; add $5 to visit the Clarke House as well. Wednesdays free | wikipedia=John J. Glessner House | image=Glessnerhousenew.JPG | wikidata=Q3181814 | content=A stately Arts & Crafts mansion from 1887, now fully restored and refurnished to its original Gilded Age atmosphere. The staff are knowledgeable and enthusiastic. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=William W. Kimball House | alt=U.S. Soccer House | url=https://www.ussoccer.com/history/us-soccer-house | email= | address=1801 S Prairie Ave | lat=41.856667 | long=-87.62 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=William W. Kimball House | image=20070110 United States Soccer Federation.JPG | wikidata=Q16893453 | content=A stately Châteauesque mansion from 1892 across the street from the Glessner House, often cited as one of the country's most important examples of this architectural style. No tours are offered, as the property is home to the United States Soccer Federation. }} * {{see | name=Marshall Field Jr. Mansion | alt= | url= | email= | address=1919 S Prairie Ave | lat=41.856121 | long=-87.620220 | directions= | phone=+1 312-915-4713 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=No tours are offered, as this long-derelict property has been rehabbed and divided into condos. This was the site of one of the great scandals of the Gilded Age. It was built by Marshall Field, the richest and most powerful man in Chicago, for his son. In 1905, the younger Field was found dead in his home under mysterious circumstances from a bullet wound. After two days, the family made the announcement that the bullet had been fired by accident during preparation for a hunting trip. According to rumors, though, he had been shot in a brothel in the notorious Levee. The elder Field died the next year, and the end of the Prairie Avenue era had begun. }} * {{see | name=National Veterans Art Museum | alt= | url=http://www.nvam.org | email= | address=1801 S Indiana Ave | lat=41.8577 | long=-87.6221 | directions= | phone=+1 312-326-0270 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM | price=$10 adults, $7 children | wikipedia=National Veterans Art Museum | wikidata=Q6979302 | content=A collection of over 500 evocative pieces of art, created by artists who served in Vietnam. The museum also holds exhibitions on the Iraq war. }} * {{see | name=Second Presbyterian Church | alt= | url=http://2ndpresbyterian.org/ | email= | address=1936 S Michigan Ave | lat=41.855833 | long=-87.624444 | directions= | phone=+1 312-225-4951 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Worship Su 11AM, free tours Su 12:15PM and W 2PM | price= | wikipedia=Second Presbyterian Church (Chicago) | wikidata=Q3477011 | content=Windows designed by Louis Tiffany and other stained-glass masters for a proudly diverse congregation. }} * {{see | name=Willie Dixon's Blues Heaven Foundation | alt=Chess Records Studio | url=http://bluesheaven.com | email= | address=2120 S Michigan Ave | lat=41.8536162 | long=-87.6240618 | directions= | phone=+1 312-808-1286 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F noon-3PM, Sa noon-2PM | price= | content=A major blues hotspot where Muddy Waters, Ahmad Jamal, Chuck Berry, Aretha Franklin, Bo Diddley, Etta James, Buddy Guy, John Lee Hooker, Ramsey Lewis, and many other greats recorded during Chicago's bluesiest period. The Rolling Stones also recorded here, paying tribute in their instrumental "2120 S Michigan Avenue." Public tours. }} ===Printer's Row=== [[Image:Printer's Row.jpg|thumb|250px|Printer's Row]] As the [[Chicago/Loop|Loop]] trails off into Printer's Row, there are still a few impressive buildings to be seen, especially on Dearborn and Plymouth. The Pontiac Building at '''542 S Dearborn''' is one of Chicago's oldest skyscrapers (Holabird & Roche, 1891), and the buildings at '''731 S Plymouth''' and '''718 S Dearborn''' have intriguing details that call back to their publishing past. Today, the major draws of Printer's Row are the bookstores — see [[Chicago/Near South#Buy|below]]. * {{see | name=Dearborn Station | alt= | url=http://dearbornstation.com/ | email= | address=47 W Polk St | lat=41.872161 | long=-87.628303 | directions= | phone=+1 312-554-4408 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Dearborn Station | wikidata=Q5246974 | content=Built in 1885, this was one of the great stations of the railroad era, the first glimpse of Chicago for countless visitors from across the country. (It also became a focal point for the anti-vice crusaders, with pamphlets describing lurid tales in which innocent farm girls fresh off the train were seized and sold into prostitution.) The rail yard is gone, with traffic having ceased in 1971, but the station house has been renovated into mixed-use commercial space, with a bar and restaurant on the ground floor. }} * {{listing | name=Printer's Row Book Fair | alt= | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/books/printersrowlitfest/ | email= | address=Dearborn St & Polk St | lat= | long= | directions=In Dearborn Park | phone=+1 312-222-3986 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content=Every September, readers converge upon Printer's Row for a celebration of books. Events with authors famous and obscure are held throughout the weekend, and almost 200 booksellers set up shop. }} ===Others=== * {{see | name=Hilliard Homes | alt= | url= | email= | address=State St and Cermak Ave | lat=41.8542 | long=-87.6164 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hilliard Towers Apartments | wikidata=Q19817575 | content=In the architecture of these massive public housing projects lies the South Side's tongue-in-cheek answer to the [[Chicago/Near North#See|North Side]]'s Marina City — in fact, they were built by the same architect, '''Bertrand Goldberg'''. With its enormous corncob towers and northern semicircular wall, the Hilliard Homes are impossible to miss when traveling between Downtown and [[Chicago/Bridgeport-Chinatown|Chinatown]]. Despite the architectural distinction of being the only public housing projects to get on the National Register of Historic Places, the towers have not always been a great place to live, suffering from urban blight similar to that found in public housing throughout the country. A mixed-income residential development was completed in 2006. }} * {{see | name=River City | alt= | url= | email= | address=800 S Wells St | lat=41.8714 | long=-87.6345 | directions= | phone=+1 312-621-4100 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=River City (building) | image=River City 01.jpg | wikidata=Q18739447 | content=Another Bertrand Goldberg corncob project, whose riverside location offers great views and frequently flooded basements. They're condominiums, so pretend to be interested in buying one if you'd like a free tour. }} * {{see | name=Northerly Island Park | alt= | url=http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks/northerly-island-park/ | email= | address=1521 S Linn White Dr | lat=41.8604 | long=-87.6083 | directions= | phone=+1 312-745-2910 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6AM-11PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Northerly Island | wikidata=Q3344205 | lastedit=2015-09-09 | content=A 40-acre park on the southern portion of Northerly Island that opened in September 2015. The park features a nature trail, pedestrian/bike path, 5 acre lagoon and an excellent view of the Chicago skyline. }} ==Do== [[Image:Near South skyline view.jpg|thumb|250px|A nice view of the [[Chicago skyline guide|Chicago skyline]] from the Museum Campus]] * {{do | name=Arie Crown Theater | alt= | url=http://ariecrown.com/ | email= | address=2301 S Lake Shore Dr | lat=41.8528 | long=-87.6156 | directions= | phone=+1 312-791-6190 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Box office: M-Sa 10AM-6PM | price= | wikipedia=Arie Crown Theater | wikidata=Q4790333 | content=Comfortable sit-down music venue in the midst of McCormick Place. It hosts big pop, rock, gospel, and R&B concerts as well as occasional musical. }} * {{do | name=FirstMerit Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island | alt= | url=http://charteronepavilion.com | email= | address=1300 S Lynn White Dr | lat=41.8634 | long=-87.6085 | directions= | phone=+1 312-540-2668 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Box office noon-9PM | price=Tickets vary by event, although if you don't mind not being able to see the stage, you'll hear the show just fine anywhere on the lakefront near the Museum Campus | wikipedia=FirstMerit Bank Pavilion | wikidata=Q2961232 | content=This small peninsula, jutting out into Lake Michigan, was the site of Meigs Airport until Mayor Daley's midnight demolition in 2003; now it's a 7500-seat concert venue for touring rock and hip-hop acts. A new nature park has been built south of the Pavilion. }} * {{do | name=McCormick Place | alt= | url=http://mccormickplace.com/ | email= | address=2301 S Lake Shore Dr | lat=41.853101 | long=-87.612137 | directions= | phone=+1 312-791-7000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Prices and hours vary by event | price=Parking $16, regardless of time spent | wikipedia=McCormick Place | image=20070110 McCormick Place (4).JPG | wikidata=Q2072805 | content=Mayor Richard J. Daley believed firmly — as his son, Mayor Richard M., did after him, and all subsequent mayors (since 2019, Lori Lightfoot) have — in total, ruthless domination of the convention circuit. Hence, the massive complex of McCormick Place, which is struggling to stay ahead of rivals in [[Las Vegas]] and [[Orlando]]. There's little reason to seek out McCormick Place unless your business is sending you there or you want to catch an event at Wintrust Arena (immediately below). That said, the auto shows are a draw for some visitors. }} ** {{do | name=Wintrust Arena | alt= | url=https://www.wintrustarena.com/ | email= | address=200 E Cermak Rd | lat=41.852997 | long=-87.622194 | directions= | phone=+1 312-791-6900 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Prices vary by event | price= | wikipedia=Wintrust Arena | image= | wikidata=Q16991688 | content=An arena seating a little more than 10,000 that opened in fall 2017 as the main event venue for McCormick Place. Its highest-profile tenants are the DePaul Blue Demons men's basketball team (college) and the Chicago Sky of the WNBA. The DePaul women's basketball team splits its home games between here and its smaller on-campus arena. }} * {{do | name=Soldier Field | alt= | url=http://www.soldierfield.net/ | email= | address=1410 S Museum Campus Dr | lat=41.8625 | long=-87.616667 | directions= | phone=+1 312-235-7000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Soldier Field | image=Soldier Field during Chicago Bears home game against the San Francisco 49ers on October 29, 2006.jpg | wikidata=Q1132413 | content=Home of the [[American football|NFL's]] '''[http://chicagobears.com Chicago Bears]''', and from 2020 home (again) to '''[https://chicagofirefc.com Chicago Fire FC]''' of [[Association football#United States|Major League Soccer]]. If you'd like to see a Bears game, then you have something in common with many Chicagoans; there's no point in listing ticket prices, because they sell out long before the season starts. On the other hand, if you're a soccer fan, you have a much better chance of getting in for a Fire game, even though that team plans on using only the lower seating bowl for most of its games. The original Soldier Field was built in 1924 to honor veterans of the First World War, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. By 2002, the stadium was in dire need of renovations, and the Bears promised to preserve the majestic colonnades of the old stadium. However, when the renovations were complete, what appeared to be a giant spaceship had landed at midfield. The amenities have improved, and it really is a nice facility... on the inside. On the outside, it's hard to say ''what'' it is, other than probably the strangest-looking sports venue in America. (It's not a Historic Place any more, having been stripped of that designation in 2006.) Tours are available during the week, M-F 9AM-5PM, by phone appointment; $15 adults, $10 students, $7 seniors, $4 children. }} ==Buy== The Near South is not a shopping destination; there is no need really, given that some of the world's most intense shopping experiences may be had in the two miles to the north. But a trip to Printer's Row can be a refreshing change of pace for downtown visitors who would prefer to browse independent bookstores. * {{buy | name=Sandmeyer's Bookstore | alt= | url=http://sandmeyersbookstore.com/ | email= | address=714 S Dearborn St | lat=41.8730108 | long=-87.6293357 | directions=Harrison Red Line | phone=+1 312-922-2104 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-W F 11AM-6:30PM, Th 11AM-8PM, Sa 11AM-5PM, Su 11AM-4PM | price= | content=A classic creaky-floors-and-cluttered-shelves kind of place. }} * {{buy | name=yarnify! | url=https://www.yarnify.com | email= | address=47 W Polk St | lat=41.87204 | long=-87.62894 | directions= | phone=+1-312-583-9276 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 11AM-7PM, F 11AM-9PM, Sa 10AM-6PM, Su noon-5PM | price= | content=Yarn powerhouse. Classes are available, and Friday nights are an open-knitting party. }} ==Eat== There are restaurants in each of the museums on the Museum Campus; the prices will replace the wonder of science with the wince of cold, hard economics. (It's odd enough that the Shedd Aquarium has a seafood restaurant, but no, you are not allowed to make selections from the aquarium floor.) If the weather's nice, take advantage of the beautiful scenery and bring a picnic lunch. ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Eleven City Diner | alt= | url=http://elevencitydiner.com | email= | address=1112 S Wabash Ave | lat=41.868690 | long=-87.626084 | directions= | phone=+1 312-212-1112 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 8AM-9:30PM, F 8AM-10:30PM, Sa 8:30AM-10:30PM, Su 8:30AM-9PM | price=$7-14 | content=New York-style Jewish diner. }} * {{drink | name=Hackney's | url=http://hackneysprintersrow.net/ | email= | address=733 S Dearborn St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-461-1116 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 10:30AM-11PM, F Sa 10:30AM-1AM | price=$8-10 | content=Printer's Row branch of the [[Chicagoland]] area beer 'n burgers chainlet. }} * {{eat | name=Harold's Chicken Shack #62 | alt= | url= | email= | address=636 S Wabash Ave | lat=41.87388 | long=-87.62622 | directions= | phone=+1 312-362-0442 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-9PM | price=$4-7 | content=The prices are higher and the quality lower at this central location of the great South Side chain, but it's still a great cheap eat. }} * {{eat | name=Panozzo's Italian Market | url=http://panozzos.com/ | email= | address=1303 S Michigan Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-356-9966 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-F 10AM-8PM, Sa 10AM-5PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price=$5-8 | content=A neighborhood deli with sandwiches and such. Perfect place to prepare a picnic lunch for a day at the Museum Campus. }} * {{eat | name=Pat's Pizza | alt= | url=http://patspizzasouthloop.com | email= | address=628 S Clark St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-427-2320 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight | price=$8-14 | lastedit=2017-10-15 | content=Cheap thin-crust pizza with a devoted following. Lunch during the work-week is crowded. }} * {{eat | name=Standing Room Only | url=http://www.standingroomonlychicago.com | email= | address=610 S Dearborn St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-360-1776 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 11AM-9PM, Sa 11:30AM-8PM | price=$8 delivers a whole sandwich meal | content=Burgers of the standard, turkey, and veggie variety. As the name says, it's standing room only. }} * {{eat | name=Yolk | url=http://yolk-online.com | email= | address=1120 S Michigan Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-789-9655 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 6AM-3PM, Sa Su 7AM-3PM | price=$8-10 | content=Breakfast place with egg-based dishes (obviously) and bright yellow walls (you've been warned). }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Bongo Room | url=http://www.thebongoroom.com | email= | address=1152 S Wabash Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-291-0100 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 8AM-2PM, Sa Su 9AM-2PM | price=$9-14 | content=Great breakfast/brunch location with no signage, a spin-off of the original [[Chicago/Wicker Park|Wicker Park]] restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Kroll's Chicago | url=http://krolls-chicago.com | email= | address=1736 S Michigan Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-235-1400 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Tu 11AM-midnight, W-F 11AM-2AM, Sa 11AM-3AM, Su 10AM-midnight | price=$8-15 | content=Sister branch of a [[Green Bay]] fixture, which is a controversial move in the heart of Bears territory. They offer a big menu of seafood and sandwiches from a charcoal grill. Plenty of beer is available, but kids are welcome. }} * {{eat | name=La Cantina Grill | url=http://lacantinagrill.com/ | email= | address=1911 S Michigan Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-842-1911 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 11AM-11PM, F 11AM-2AM, Sa noon-2AM, Su noon-10PM | price=$10-15 | content=Unpretentious, good Mexican cuisine. Live music on Friday nights. }} * {{eat | name=Oysy Japanese Sushi | url=http://oysysushi.com | email= | address=888 S Michigan Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-922-1127 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 11:30AM-2:30PM, 5PM-9:30PM; Sa 5PM-11PM, Su 5PM-9PM | price=$10-15 | content=Models itself upon a Japanese [[Japan#Drink|izakaya]], and offers reasonably priced Japanese dishes like tempura and sushi rolls near Grant Park. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=South Coast | alt= | url=http://coastsushi.net/southcoast/ | email= | address=1700 S Michigan Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-662-1700 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 4:30PM-11PM, F 4:30PM-midnight, Sa noon-midnight, Su noon-10PM | price=$15-25 | lastedit=2019-03-25 | content=BYOB sushi bar. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Chicago Firehouse Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.chicagofirehouse.com | email= | address=1401 S Michigan Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-786-1401 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Lunch: M-F 11:30AM-3PM; brunch: Sa Su 10AM-3PM; dinner: Su-Th 5PM-10PM, F Sa 5PM-11PM | price=$20-60 | lastedit=2017-10-15 | content=Fine American dining. }} * {{eat | name=Gioco | url=http://gioco-chicago.com {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=1312 S Wabash Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-939-3870 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Lunch: M-F 11:30AM-3PM, Brunch: Sa Su 11AM-4PM, Dinner: M-Th 5PM-10PM, F Sa 5PM-11PM, Su 5PM-9PM | price=$15-$40 | content=Offers "rustic Italian" dishes. }} ==Drink== Blues and jazz fans staying downtown have a real reason to come to the Near South at night in the form of two legendary clubs: Buddy Guy's Legends for the blues and the Velvet Lounge for jazz. * {{drink | name=Buddy Guy's Legends | alt= | url=http://buddyguy.com | email= | address=700 S Wabash Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-427-1190 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu 5PM-2AM, W-F 11AM-2AM, Sa noon-3AM, Su noon-2AM | price=Cover Su-Th $10, F Sa $20 | lastedit=2017-10-15 | content=A famous, fairly large blues club with a Cajun/soul food menu and frequent big-name acts. Buddy Guy himself holds court every January. }} * {{drink | name=Kasey's Tavern | url=http://kaseystavern.com/| email= | address=701 S Dearborn St | lat= | long= | directions=Harrison Red Line | phone=+1-312-427-7992 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-F 11AM-2AM, Sa noon-3AM | price= | content=Excellent dive bar in historic Printer's Row. Extensive beer selection, disgusting bathrooms and "Absolutely No Dancing." Kasey's is good for a drink before or after a Sox game. }} * {{drink | name=Kitty O'Shea's | url=http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/CHICHHH-Hilton-Chicago-Illinois/dining.do | email= | address=720 S Michigan Ave | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Chicago Hilton | phone=+1 312-294-6860 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 11AM-1AM, F Sa 11AM-2AM | price= | content=Better than your average hotel bar, with a stately ambiance that's nevertheless hospitable to Bears fans on their way back from Soldier Field or Grant Park festival-goers. }} * {{do | name=Jazz Showcase | url=http://jazzshowcase.com/ | email= | address=806 S Plymouth Ct | lat= | long= | directions=Harrison Red Line | phone=+1 312-360-0234 (Box office) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Sets M-Sa at 8PM and 10PM, and on Su at 4PM, 8PM and 10PM | price=Prices vary | content=Started in 1948 by Joe Segal, this historic jazz club is home to both national touring acts and the finest local jazz musicians Chicago has to offer. It is in the historic Dearborn Station building in the South Loop. Segal maintains the high standard for acoustic jazz that over the years has featured luminaries from Dizzy Gillespie to Chick Corea. }} * {{drink | name=M Lounge | url=http://mloungechicago.com/ | email= | address=1520 S Wabash Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-447-0201 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Th 6PM-1AM, F Sa 6PM-2AM | price=$12 martinis. $4+ beer, no cover | content=Martinis and jazz; live performances Tu W 7PM-10PM. Nights with music supposedly have a two drink minimum, but for cheapskates, it is unclear how this policy would be enforced. }} * {{drink | name=Reggie's | url=http://reggieslive.com/ | email= | address=2105 & 2109 S State St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-949-0120 (Joint), +1 312-949-0121 (Club) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Joint: Su-F 11AM-2AM, Sa 11AM-3AM; Club: hours vary by show | price=Joint: no cover, Club: $7-15 | content=Reggie's Music Joint is a nice bar and grill that offers nightly live music, mostly by local rock bands, as well as a professional blues jam session every Wednesday night. Reggie's Rock Club features bigger-name touring rock acts. If you want to take some music home, head upstairs over the Rock Club to Record Breakers, which sells new and used CDs, LPs, and other rock paraphernalia. }} * {{drink | name=The Velvet Lounge | url=http://www.facebook.com/velvetchicago | email= | address=67 E Cermak Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 312-791-9050 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another essential stop on [[The Jazz Track]], best reached by taxi. If you want to go to a bar that represents the real Chicago jazz tradition from Louis Armstrong right up to Pharaoh Sanders, then you must go to the Velvet Lounge. }} ==Sleep== Since there are so many hotels in the [[Chicago/Loop|Loop]] and the [[Chicago/Near North|Near North]], there has never been much demand for them here. Any Loop hotels that are close to Grant Park will also be within pretty reasonable distance of the Museum Campus and McCormick Place. * {{sleep | name=Best Western Grant Park | alt= | url=http://bwgrantparkhotel.com | email= | address=1100 S Michigan Ave | lat= 41.8691 | long= -87.6247 | directions= | phone=+1 312-922-2900 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from $153 | content=Includes fitness room, outdoor seasonal pool and sundeck, free WiFi, valet parking with in and out privileges (rare for Downtown Chicago). }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hilton Chicago | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/chichhh-hilton-chicago/ | email= | address=720 S Michigan Ave | lat=41.8725 | long=-87.624361 | directions= | phone=+1 312-922-4400 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=Rooms from $119 | wikidata=Q2099561 | content=One of the finest Hilton hotels in the chain, with many luxury suites and rooms, including ambassador and presidential suites. It has a wonderful view of Grant Park. The Hilton Chicago is on the border of the business [[Chicago/Loop|Loop]]. }} * {{sleep | name=Essex Inn | url=http://essexinn.com/ | email= | address=800 S Michigan Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-621-6909 | fax= | hours= | price=Rooms from $120 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Offers clean, fully equipped, and renovated rooms, a fantastic pool and fitness center and free wi-fi. }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency McCormick Place | alt= | url=https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-regency/en-US/chimc-hyatt-regency-mccormick-place-chicago | email= | address=2233 S Dr Martin Luther King Jr Dr | lat=41.85211 | long=-87.61861 | directions= | phone=+1 312-567-1234 | tollfree= | fax=+1 312-528-4000 | checkin= | checkout= | price=$180-300 | wikidata=Q111394136 | lastedit=2025-03-31 | content=Nothing exceptional, except some of the views — if you are staying here, spend whatever extra money is required for the spectacular cityscape views. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=The Wheeler Mansion | alt=Wheeler-Kohn House | url=http://wheelermansion.com | email= | address=2020 S Calumet Ave | lat=41.855 | long=-87.619444 | directions= | phone=+1-312-945-2020 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$230-280 | wikidata=Q7992184 | content=One of the few mansions to survive the fire of 1871 is now a very charming four-star bed and breakfast with spacious rooms adorned with antiques. }} ==Connect== For internet access, the closest public libraries are the [[Chicago/Bridgeport-Chinatown|Chinatown]] Branch, just west of the Velvet Lounge, and the Harold Washington Center just north of Printer's Row in the [[Chicago/Loop|Loop]]. ==Go next== * If you came here looking for blues and jazz, you may want to head further to the South Side home of the blues in [[Chicago/Chatham-South Shore|Chatham-South Shore]]. * And if you had fun at the Museum Campus, even more awaits you at the '''Museum of Science and Industry''' in [[Chicago/Hyde Park|Hyde Park]]. * Hurting for good Chinese food? Find ''great'' Chinese food in nearby [[Chicago/Bridgeport-Chinatown|Chinatown]]. Take bus #18 from Prairie Avenue or #21 from McCormick Place. {{routebox | image1=CTA L Green Line icon.png | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=N | majorl1=Forest Park | minorl1='''[[Chicago/Loop|The Loop]]''' | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Chicago/Southwest Side|Southwest Side]]/[[Chicago/Hyde Park|Hyde Park]] | minorr1=[[Chicago/Bronzeville|Bronzeville]] | image2=CTA L Orange Line icon.png | imagesize2=100 | directionl2=SW | majorl2=[[Chicago/Southwest Side|Southwest Side]] | minorl2=[[Chicago/Bridgeport-Chinatown|Bridgeport-Chinatown]] | directionr2=NE | majorr2=END | minorr2='''[[Chicago/Loop|The Loop]]''' | image3=CTA L Red Line icon.png | imagesize3=100 | directionl3=N | majorl3=[[Chicago/Rogers Park|Rogers Park]] | minorl3='''[[Chicago/Loop|The Loop]]''' | directionr3=S | majorr3=[[Chicago/Far Southeast Side|Far Southeast Side]] | minorr3=[[Chicago/Bridgeport-Chinatown|Bridgeport-Chinatown]] }} {{IsPartOf|Chicago}} {{guidedistrict}} {{related|Chicago_skyline_guide}} {{geo|41.8604|-87.6265}} nsuwjhjq6fz9qdeebn9jcg7ze1qlz5t 0 7269 5091226 5028402 2025-07-11T07:09:44Z DaGizza 162256 /* Eat */ Updated listing for Smokin' Mo's BBQ 5091226 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Chico Yo-yo museum exhibits.jpg|pgname=Chico}} '''Chico''' is in [[Butte County]] in [[California]]. Chico is the cultural and economic center of the northern Sacramento Valley, as well as the largest city in California north of Sacramento. The city is known as a college town, as the home of California State University, Chico, and for Bidwell Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world. ==Understand == * [http://www.chico.ca.us/ Chico City Council] website ==Get in== {{mapframe|39.748|-121.828|zoom=12|name=Map of Chico}} {{mapshape}} ===By train=== {{See also|Rail travel in the United States}} [[Amtrak]] makes a once-daily stop in Chico at the {{marker|type=go|name=Chico Station | url= | lat=39.723375|long=-121.846153}} at 450 Orange St on Orange and W 5th St with the following: * '''[http://www.amtrak.com/coast-starlight-train Amtrak Coast Starlight]''' makes an once daily trip in each direction between [[Seattle]] and [[Los Angeles]], serving [[Tacoma]], [[Lacey]], [[Centralia (Washington)|Centralia]], [[Kelso (Washington)|Kelso]], [[Vancouver (Washington)|Vancouver, WA]], [[Portland (Oregon)|Portland]], [[Salem (Oregon)|Salem]], [[Albany (Oregon)|Albany]], [[Eugene]], [[Klamath Falls]], [[Dunsmuir]], [[Redding]], Chico, [[Sacramento]], [[Davis (California)|Davis]], [[Martinez (California)|Martinez]], San Francisco ([[Emeryville]]), [[Oakland]], [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]], [[Salinas]], [[Paso Robles]], [[San Luis Obispo]], [[Santa Barbara]], [[Oxnard]], [[Simi Valley]], [[Van Nuys]], and [[Burbank]]. ===By car=== Chico straddles SR 99, and is also accessible via SR 32 east of Orland at Exit #619 off [[Interstate 5#SR-32 Chico / Orland |Interstate 5]] (I-5). ===By bus=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Greyhound | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com/bus/chico-ca/chico-bus-station | email= | address=Chico Bus Station, 450 Orange St #2 | lat= | long= | directions=the bus boards in the corner lot in front of the train station nearest to the Orange/W 5th St intersection | phone=+1 530-343-8266 | tollfree=+1 800 231-2222 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-03-10 | content=Greyhound travels along I-5/SR-99 between Portland and Sacramento via Salem, Corvallis, Eugene, Roseburg, Grants Pass, Medford, Weed, Redding, Chico, Oroville, and/or Marysville. Passengers transfer buses in [[Medford_(Oregon)#By bus|Medford]], [[Redding#By Bus|Redding]], [[Sacramento#By bus|Sacramento]] or [[Los Angeles#By bus|Los Angeles]] to reach additional destinations. Some of the buses are direct between Redding and Sacramento. Check schedules. }} ===By plane=== The nearest international airport is in '''[[Sacramento#By plane|Sacramento]]''' ({{IATA|SMF}}) located {{mi|90}} to the south. Chico also hosts a general aviation airport known as the {{marker|type=go|name=Chico Regional Airport|url=http://www.chico.ca.us/Airport/Home_Page.asp|lat=39.79914|long=-121.85478}} ({{IATA|CIC}}) four miles north of the city. ==Get around== Ride a bike. One of the best bike friendly towns around, the locals and students prefer to bike around it. Taxis are prolific and cheap, and must be called to your location to pick you up. The bus transit system, the [http://www.blinetransit.com/ B-line], will take you most places around the city at an hourly rate. ==See== *{{see | name=Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park | alt= | url=https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=460 | email= | address=525 Esplanade | lat=39.7423 | long=-121.8478 | directions= | phone=+1 530-895-6144 | tollfree= | hours=W Sa Su 11AM-3PM | price=Adult $6, youth $3 | wikidata=Q4904293 | lastedit=2024-03-11 | content=This 26-room mansion formerly owned by John and Annie Bidwell was the first in the state to have indoor plumbing. 50-minute tours of the mansion depart at 11AM, 1PM, and 3PM. }} *{{see | name=Colman Museum & Centerville Schoolhouse | alt= | url=https://www.centervillemuseum.com/ | email=colmanmuseuminfo@gmail.com | address=13548 Centerville Rd | lat=39.787609 | long=-121.656739 | directions= | phone=+1 530-893-9667 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Sa Su 1PM-4PM | price= | lastedit=2024-03-11 | content= }} *{{see | name=National Yo-Yo Museum | alt= | url=http://www.nationalyoyo.org/ | email= | address=320 Broadway St | lat=39.72859 | long=-121.840418 | directions= | phone=+1 530-893-0545 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-5PM, Su 11AM-4PM | price= | wikidata=Q109370766 | lastedit=2024-03-10 | content=The largest collection of yo-yos in the U.S. }} * {{see | name=Chico Air Museum | alt= | url=http://www.chicoairmuseum.org/ | email=chicoairmuseum@gmail.com | address=165 Ryan Ave | lat=39.803508 | long=-121.858227 | directions= | phone=+1 530-345-6468 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Th-Su 10AM-3PM | price= | wikipedia=Chico Air Museum | wikidata=Q30594751 | lastedit=2024-03-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Gateway Science Museum | alt= | url=http://www.csuchico.edu/gateway/ | email=gateway@csuchico.edu | address=625 Esplanade | lat=39.732796 | long=-121.843938 | directions= | phone=+1 530-898-4121 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Th-Sa 11AM-4PM | price=Adult $7, age 3-17 $5, CSU & Butte College student free | lastedit=2024-03-10 | content= }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Bidwell Park | alt= | url=https://chico.ca.us/bidwell-park | email= | address=1968 East 8th St | lat=39.735542 | long=-121.817163 | directions=Chico Creek Nature Center | phone=+1 530-891-4671 | tollfree= | fax=+1 530 891-0837 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bidwell Park | image=Upper Park in Bidwell Park.jpg | wikidata=Q4904294 | content=America's seventh largest municipal park offers hiking, biking, swimming, and numerous other options for outdoor recreation. The lower section of the park begins near Highway 99 and extends north-east through the city and continues five miles into the foothills north of the city. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Bird in Hand | alt= | url= | email= | address=320 Broadway St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530-893-0545 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Selling a wide range of products, from Tommy Bahama to toys. Also has a Yo-yo museum, which houses the world's largest wooden yo-yo. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Aca Taco | alt= | url= | email= | address=133 Broadway St | lat=39.730104 | long=-121.841403 | directions= | phone=+1 530-894-0191 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content=Aca Taco is one of the most popular late-night treats in Chico. Their popular buritos are a perfect adendum to a night well spent. }} * {{eat | name=5th Street Steakhouse | alt= | url=http://www.5thstreetsteakhouse.com/ | email= | address=345 West Fifth St | lat=39.726363 | long=-121.840442 | directions= | phone=+1 530-891-6328 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content=An expensive fine dinner restaurant, this small but divine steakhouse is known as much for its extensive wine cellar as it is for its steaks. }} * {{eat | name=Italian Cottage | url= | email= | address=2234 Esplanade | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Awesome breakfast omelettes, especially the spicy Italian one with marinara sauce, melted cheese, sausage, and pepperoni. }} * {{eat | name=Morning Thunder Cafe | url=http://www.morningthundercafe.com/ | email= | address=352 Vallombrosa Ave | lat=39.733204 | long=-121.837746 | directions= | phone=+1 530-342-9717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content=Large portions and voted Best Breakfast of Chico for many years by vote in the local newspaper ''The Chico News and Review''. They have a different flavor muffin everyday, and the muffins are recommended when the meal comes with a choice of bread. Breakfast potatoes can be made extra crispy if you ask and are particularly good if you do so. }} * {{eat | name=Nobby's | url= | email= | address=1444 Park Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530-342-2285 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular burger joint. Burgers can come with a crispy cheese skirt. Outdoor seating is available and preferable on a nice day since the inside can be a little cramped. }} * {{eat | name=Red Tavern | url=http://www.redtavern.com/ | email= | address=1250 Esplanade | lat=39.739739 | long=-121.846579 | directions= | phone=+1 530-894-3463 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=$15+ | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content=Expertly made, California-cuisine style meals. Reservations definitely needed on weekend nights. }} * {{eat | name=Smokin' Mo's BBQ | alt= | url= | email= | address=131 Broadway St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530-891-6677 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=They offer tri-tip, chicken, pork, and ribs. You have 4 different sauces to choose from and you can take as much sauce from each type as you want. It's an order at the counter place. }} * {{eat | name=Sierra Nevada Taproom and Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.sierranevada.com/brewery/california/taproom | email= | address=1075 E 20th St. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530-345-2739 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Th 11AM-9PM; F Sa 11AM-10PM | price= | content=This is one of Chico's landmark restaurants. Sierra Nevada Brewery has been a Chico icon since its founding in 1979. Chicoans take great pride in their local brewery and Sierra Nevada can be found all throughout the town. The accompanying taproom and restaurant is one of the most popular places to eat in Chico. Almost always filled to capacity, the wait can be long sometimes, but the prices are reasonable and the food is top tier. }} * {{eat | name=T. Bar and Fusion Cafe | url=http://www.tbarchico.com/ | email= | address=250 Vallombrosa Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 530-895-8100 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=California fusion cuisine and a wide variety of teas, the Chocolate Chai Frost being one of their most popular drinks. Although not stated on the menu any drink can be made into a frost, sparkling, etc. Just ask, for example, to turn a Strawberry Lime sparkling tea into a Strawberry Lime frost and they will be happy to oblige. }} * {{eat | name=Woodstock's Pizza | alt= | url=https://woodstockschico.com/ | email= | address=240 Main St | lat=39.730728 | long=-121.840294 | directions= | phone=+1 530-893-1500 | tollfree= | fax=+1 530 894-8156 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-02 | content=The title of best pizza joint in Chico is a contentious one and no one faults Woodstock's for throwing their hat into the ring. The variety of options and the tasty desserts are the perfect fuel for a night of studying or a night on the town. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Joe's Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=749 West 5th St | lat=39.723853 | long=-121.844259 | directions= | phone=+1 530-894-3612 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content=Sawdust on the floor, music blaring, cheap drinks, a back patio, and a crowd that will be singing along after midnight. }} * {{drink | name=Madison Bear Garden | url=http://www.madisonbeargarden.com/ | email= | address=316 W 2nd St | lat=39.729097 | long=-121.842586 | directions= | phone=+1 530-891-1639 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content="The Bear" as it is locally known is a favorite of the students of CSU Chico. A variety of burger variations is enough to keep any student sated for years. For the particularly adventurous the Jiffy Burger (a hamburger with peanut butter!) is a must. At night the Bear transforms from a kitchy burger spot for locals to a late-night party with theme nights, contests, and music on the second floor into the wee hours of the morning. }} * {{drink | name=Sierra Nevada Brewery | url=http://www.sierranevada.com/ | email= | address=1075 E 20th St | lat=39.724394 | long=-121.815715 | directions= | phone=+1 530-893-3520 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content=Take a tour, try some of the best microbrew in the country. Privately owned, the brewery offers an alehouse with excellent food and good beer for around $2.50 a glass. Try the beer sampler. }} *{{drink | name=Panama's Bar and Cafe | url=http://www.panamabarcafeinchico.com/panama-bar-cafe/ | email= | address=177 E 2nd St | lat=39.730531 | long=-121.839696 | directions= | phone=+1 530-895-8817 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content=A favorite of students this cafe-cum-bar is an energetic and vibrant club known almost as much for its dance floor as it is for its Long Island Iced Teas. The fun tropical theme and fun atmosphere makes a fun alternative to some of the larger bars in Chico. While not a gay bar, it does have a gay-friendly atmosphere. }} ==Sleep== === Budget === * {{sleep | name=Motel 6 | alt= | url=https://www.motel6.com/content/g6/en/home/motels.ca.chico.9346.html | email= | address=665 Manzanita Ct | lat=39.752565 | long=-121.843986 | directions= | phone=+1 530-345-5500 | tollfree= | fax=+1 530 894-2846 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Best Western Heritage Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/content/best-western/en_US/booking-path/hotel-details.05444.html | email= | address=25 Heritage Ln | lat=39.755589 | long=-121.845617 | directions= | phone=+1 530-894-8600 | tollfree=+1-800-446-4291 | fax=+1 530-894-8600 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Courtyard Chico | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ciccy-courtyard-chico/ | email= | address=2481 Carmichael Drive | lat=39.716310 | long=-121.803814 | directions= | phone=+1 530-894-6699 | tollfree= | fax=+1 530-894-6696 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Oxford Suites Chico | url=http://www.oxfordsuiteschico.com/ | email= | address=2035 Business Ln | lat=39.724744 | long=-121.805616 | directions= | phone=+1 530-899-9090 | tollfree=+1-800-870-7848 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content=A good choice for business travelers. Reasonably priced with plenty of business centers and Wi-Fi throughout the facility, and a free breakfast buffet. }} * {{sleep | name=DoubleTree by Hilton Chico | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/cicccdt-doubletree-chico/ | email= | address=685 Manzanita Ct | lat=39.751999 | long=-121.843939 | directions= | phone=+1 530-345-2491 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit= | content=Outdoor pool and restaurant/bar available. }} * {{sleep | name=Residence Inn Chico | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/property/propertypage/CICRI | email= | address=2485 Carmichael Dr | lat=39.715593 | long=-121.803599 | directions= | phone=+1 530-894-5500 | tollfree= | fax=+1 530 894-5511 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content= }} === Splurge === * {{sleep | name=Hotel Diamond | alt= | url=http://www.hoteldiamondchico.com/ | email= | address=220 West 4th St | lat=39.728232 | long=-121.840318 | directions= | phone=+1 530-893-3100 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-22 | content=The original Diamond Hotel opened for business in 1904 as the "only strictly first-class house in Chico, and the superior of any North of Sacramento." A major fire in 1916 closed the doors. From the 1920s to the 1990s, the building was occupied by Chico State University students as dormitory or a low-cost hotel and eventually abandoned empty. The new Hotel Diamond opened its door in May 2005. }} ==Go next== * [[Gold Country]] - Where the formation of California really took place. * [[Mount Lassen]] - Excellent outdoor hiking and breathtaking scenery in the volcanic park about an hour and a half from Chico. * [[Oroville (California)|Oroville]] - Twenty minutes east of Chico is this town that has more history as a Gold Rush-era boom town. * [[Sacramento]] - About 1 hour and 45 minutes south of Chico and the capital of California. {{routebox | image1=California 99.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Redding]] via [[Image:I-5.svg|18px]] | minorl1=[[Red Bluff]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Sacramento]] | minorr1=[[Yuba City]] }} {{usablecity}} {{geo|39.748|-121.828|zoom=13}} {{isPartOf|Butte_County}} 37wll0icmgpulg4cz05hwk165edhy95 0 7335 5091253 5090031 2025-07-11T09:09:40Z Liuxinyu970226 165796 /* Nepal */ due to 8 July flood, Rasuwa bridge has destroyed and hence Rasuwa-Gyirong crossing closed atm 5091253 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|China Banner 2.jpg|caption=Nine Dragon Wall|pgname=China}} {{other uses}} '''China''' (中国; ''Zhōngguó'') is one of the world's oldest civilizations. Its long and rich history is present in people's thinking and values, and in the art, architecture, and feats of engineering that remain from dynasties past. In addition to its bustling and futuristic cities like [[Shanghai]] and [[Shenzhen]], China boasts an incredible array of breathtaking natural wonders like the karst landscapes of [[Guilin]] and granite peaks of [[Huangshan]] that have inspired painters and poets for generations. After a tumultuous 19th and 20th centuries, China has dramatically re-emerged as an economic and technological powerhouse. Its rapid development has been paralleled by an ascent onto the international stage. Of course there are growing pains when high-rises and factories surge up to dwarf centuries-old pagodas, but there's also a strong sense of enthusiasm and optimism about what the future holds. If you visit now, you can see the relics of millennia of history and experience the signs of further transformations in progress. ==Regions== China's [[Chinese provinces and regions|hierarchy of administrative divisions]] has 22 '''provinces''' (省 ''shěng'') which tend to have their own cultural identities, and 5 '''autonomous regions''' (自治区 ''zìzhìqū''), each with a designated minority ethnic group. These along with four municipalities (直辖市 ''zhíxiáshì'') make up what is known as '''mainland China''' (中国大陆 ''Zhōngguó dàlù'' or 中国内地 ''Zhōngguó nèidì''). {{disclaimerbox|Wikivoyage covers '''[[Hong Kong]]''', '''[[Macau]]''' and '''[[Taiwan]]''' in separate articles. They have separate immigration and visa systems and issue their own currencies. Journeys between any two of them or between any of them and mainland China will involve border inspections. ''This does not represent an endorsement of any political position.''}} For the purposes of Wikivoyage, these provinces are grouped into the following regions: {{Regionlist | regionmap=Map of China.svg | regionmaptext=Regions of China | regionmapsize=500px | region1name=[[Northwest China]] | region1color=#71b37b | region1items=[[Shaanxi]], [[Gansu]], [[Ningxia]], [[Qinghai]], [[Xinjiang]] | region1description=A historical borderland, with grasslands giving way to deserts and mountains, and with the ancient Silk Road connecting China to Europe. Northwest China is home to many Muslims and ethnic minorities who at times formed independent kingdoms. | region2name=[[North China]] | region2color=#b383b3 | region2items=[[Shandong]], [[Shanxi]], [[Inner Mongolia]], [[Henan]], [[Hebei]], [[Beijing]], [[Tianjin]] | region2description=The plains of North China around the fertile [[Along the Yellow River|Yellow River]] basin were the '''cradle of Chinese civilization'''. It has been the political center of Chinese empires for millennia, and is home to the modern capital, Beijing. | region3name=[[Northeast China]] | region3color=#d5dc76 | region3items=[[Liaoning]], [[Jilin]], [[Heilongjiang]] | region3description=Historically known in the West as '''Manchuria''', the Northeast is a land of steppes, vast forests, and long snowy winters. Culturally influenced by Russia, Korea, and Japan, it contains a mix of modern cities and "rust belt" industrial towns that have become neglected. | region4name=[[Southwest China]] | region4color=#4da9c4 | region4items=[[Tibet]], [[Sichuan]], [[Chongqing Municipality|Chongqing]], [[Yunnan]], [[Guizhou]] | region4description=Minority peoples, spectacular scenery, and backpacker havens. | region5name=[[South-central China]] | region5color=#a78379 | region5items=[[Anhui]], [[Hubei]], [[Hunan]], [[Jiangxi]] | region5description=[[Along the Yangtze River|Yangtze River]] Basin area, farms, mountains, river gorges, temperate and sub-tropical forests. | region6name=[[South China]] | region6color=#ffd0d0 | region6items=[[Guangdong]], [[Guangxi]], [[Hainan]] | region6description=Traditional trading center, manufacturing and tech powerhouse. | region7name=[[East China]] | region7color=#d56d76 | region7items=[[Jiangsu]], [[Shanghai]], [[Zhejiang]], [[Fujian]] | region7description=The "land of fish and rice", traditional water towns, and China's new cosmopolitan economic center. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5dc76|title=[[Northeast China]]|wikidata=Q43934,Q45208,Q19206}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b383b3|title=[[North China]]|wikidata=Q43407,Q46913,Q41079,Q43684,Q21208,Q956,Q11736}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Northwest China]]|wikidata=Q47974,Q42392,Q57448,Q45833,Q34800}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#4da9c4|title=[[Southwest China]]|wikidata=Q17269,Q43194,Q47097,Q19770,Q11725}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a78379|title=[[South-central China]]|wikidata=Q40956,Q46862,Q45761,Q57052}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#ffd0d0|title=[[South China]]|wikidata=Q15175,Q42200,Q15176}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d56d76|title=[[East China]]|wikidata=Q16963,Q8686,Q16967,Q41705}} ==Cities== <!--{{Mapframe|37.6|104.2|height=550|width=700|zoom=4}}--> [[File:Gateofheavenlypeace.JPG|thumb|Tiananmen, [[Beijing]]]] Here are nine of China's most interesting cities for travelers. Others are listed in region articles. <!-- Do not change or add to this list without discussion on the talk page --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Beijing]]|wikidata=Q956}} (北京) — the capital, cultural center, and home of the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, and other important historical sites. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chengdu]]|wikidata=Q30002}} (成都) — capital of [[Sichuan]] province, known for tingly-spicy food, giant pandas and China's largest [[LGBT travel|LGBT scene]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Guangzhou]]|wikidata=Q16572}} (广州) — one of China's most prosperous and liberal cities. Center of Cantonese culture and cuisine. [[File:1 li jiang guilin yangshuo 2011.jpg|thumb|Li River near [[Guilin]]]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Hangzhou]]|wikidata=Q4970}} (杭州) — built around West Lake, a {{UNESCO}}, and southern terminus of the [[Along the Grand Canal|Grand Canal]]. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Harbin]]|wikidata=Q42956}} (哈尔滨) — capital of [[Heilongjiang]], which hosts the Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival during its bitterly cold winters. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kashgar]]|wikidata=Q170521}} (Chinese: 喀什, Uyghur: قەشقەر) — center of Uyghur culture, with a beautiful and well-preserved old town, and the famous Id Kah Mosque. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nanjing]]|wikidata=Q16666}} (南京) — the capital during the early Ming Dynasty and Republic of China era, a renowned historical and cultural city with many historic sites. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Shanghai]]|wikidata=Q8686}} (上海) — China's largest city and main commercial centre, famous for its beautiful pre-World War II French, British and American colonial architecture, ultramodern 21st-century skyscrapers, and many shopping opportunities. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Xi'an]]|wikidata=Q5826}} (西安) — the oldest city and ancient capital of China, terminus of the ancient [[Silk Road]], and home of the terracotta warriors. <!-- Do not change or add to this list without discussion on the talk page --> You can travel between many of these cities quickly using [[Rail travel in China|high-speed rail]]. In particular, the Hangzhou - Shanghai - Suzhou - Nanjing line is a convenient way to see these historic areas. ==Other destinations== Some of the most famous tourist attractions in China are: * {{marker|name=[[Great Wall of China]]|wikidata=Q12501}} (万里长城) — longer than 8,000&nbsp;km, this ancient wall is the most iconic landmark of China. * {{marker|name=[[Hainan]]|wikidata=Q42200}} (海南) — a tropical paradise island undergoing heavy tourism-oriented development. * {{marker|name=[[Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve]]|wikidata=Q4111}} (九寨沟) — known for its many multi-level waterfalls, colourful lakes and as the home of the giant pandas. * {{marker|name=[[Leshan]]|wikidata=Q426868|image=Leshan DaF0 Grand Buddha.JPG}} — most famous for its huge riverside cliff-carving of Buddha and nearby [[Mount Emei]]. * {{marker|name=[[Qomolangma|Mount Everest]]|wikidata=Q3457459}} — straddling the border between Nepal and Tibet, this is the world's highest mountain. * {{marker|name=[[Mount Tai]]|wikidata=Q216059}} (泰山 Tài Shān) — one of the five sacred Taoist mountains in China, and the most-climbed mountain in China. * {{marker|name=[[Tibet]]|wikidata=Q17269}} (西藏) — with a majority of Tibetan Buddhists and traditional Tibetan culture, it feels like an entirely different world. * {{marker|name=[[Yungang Grottoes]]|lat=40.11143|long=113.13233}} (云冈石窟) — these mountain-side caves and recesses number more than 50, and are filled with 51,000 Buddhist statues. * {{marker|name=[[Guilin]] karst|lat=25.2667|long=110.2833}} (桂林) — sensational mountain landscapes that have long been the subject of Chinese paintings. China has over 50 sites on the [[UNESCO World Heritage List#China|UNESCO World Heritage List]]. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationPRChina.svg}} China was one of the great civilizations of the ancient world, and for many centuries stood out as a leading nation with technologies that the West was not able to match until the early modern period. Paper, gunpowder and the compass are examples of Chinese inventions that are still widely used today. As the dominant power in the region for much of its history, China exported much of its culture to neighboring [[Vietnam]], [[Korea]] and [[Japan]], and Chinese influences can still be seen in the cultures of these countries. Chinese civilization has endured millennia of tumultuous upheaval and revolutions, golden ages and periods of anarchy. Through the economic boom initiated by the reforms since the 1980s, China has returned to its place as a major political and economic world power, buoyed by its large and industrious population. The depth and complexity of the Chinese civilization, with its rich heritage, has fascinated Westerners such as [[Marco Polo]] and Gottfried Leibniz in centuries past, and will continue to excite — and bewilder — the traveller today. In Chinese, China is ''zhōng guó'', literally "central state" but often translated more poetically as "Middle Kingdom". People from everywhere else are called ''wàiguórén'' (外国人, "outside country people"), or colloquially lǎowài, "old outsider" with "old" in the sense of venerable or respected (in practice, these terms mostly refer to white people or Westerners, and almost never to any foreigner of Chinese descent). ===History=== : ''See [[Imperial China]] for more information on pre-revolutionary China.'' ====Ancient China==== According to legend, the origin of the Chinese civilization can be traced to the '''Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors''' (三皇五帝), though they are regarded as mythical figures by most modern historians. The recorded history of Chinese civilization can be traced back to the [[Along the Yellow River|Yellow River]] valley, said to be the "cradle of Chinese civilization". The '''Xia Dynasty''' (夏朝, c.2070–c.1600 BC) was the first dynasty to be described in ancient historical chronicles, though to date, no indisputable proof of its existence has been found. Some archaeologists have linked the [[Erlitou]] settlements to the Xia dynasty, but this is a controversial position. The '''Shang Dynasty''' (商朝, c.1600–1046 BC), China's first archaeologically confirmed dynasty, only ruled across the Yellow River basin. There were other civilisations in what is now China at about the same time, at least the [[Liangzhu Culture]] in the lower Yangtze region around [[Lake Tai]] and one further up that river in [[Sichuan]] whose main archeological site is at [[Sanxingdui]]. The Shang and the Sanxingdu people were Bronze Age cultures, while Liangzhu had the last neolithic culture in its region. [[File:Statue of Lao Tzu in Quanzhou.jpg|thumb|Statue of Laozi in [[Quanzhou]]]] The Shang were succeeded by the '''Zhou Dynasty''' (周朝, 1046–256 BC), who expanded their empire southward into the Yangtze river basin. The Zhou adopted feudalism as their system of government; feudal lords ruled over their respective territories with a high degree of autonomy, even maintaining their own armies, while at the same time paying tribute to the king and recognizing him as the symbolic ruler of China. During the second half of the Zhou period, China descended into centuries of political turmoil, with the feudal lords of numerous small fiefdoms vying for power during the '''Spring and Autumn Period''' (春秋时代, 770–476 BC), and later stabilized into seven large states in the '''Warring States period''' (战国时代, 475–221 BC). This tumultuous period gave birth to China's greatest thinkers including Confucius, Mencius and Laozi (also spelt Lao-Tzu), who made substantial contributions to Chinese thought and culture, as well as the military strategist Sun Tzu, whose ''Art of War'' is studied to this day. ====Imperial China==== {{See also|On the trail of Marco Polo}} China was unified in 221 BC under Qin Shi Huang, "First Emperor of Qin". His '''Qin Dynasty''' (秦朝, 221 BC—206 BC) instituted a centralized system of government for China, and standardized weights and measures, Chinese characters and currency to create unity. The '''Han Dynasty''' (汉朝, 206 BC—220 AD) took over in 206 BC after a period of revolt and civil war, ushering in the first golden age of Chinese civilization. To this day, the majority ethnic group in China refers to themselves as "Han", and Chinese characters continue to be called "Han characters" (汉字 ''hànzì'') in Chinese. The Han Dynasty presided over the beginning of the [[Silk Road]], and the invention of paper. The empire was also expanded further southward, incorporating what is today Fujian, Guangdong and northern Vietnam. The collapse of the Han Dynasty in AD 220 led to a period of political turmoil and war known as '''the Three Kingdoms Period''' (三国时期, 220—280), which China split into the three separate states of '''Wei''' (魏, 220-265), '''Shu''' (蜀, 221—263) and '''Wu''' (吴, 222—280). The '''Jin Dynasty''' (晋朝, 265—420) reunified China in AD 280, though the reunification was short-lived, and China would rapidly descend into civil war and division again. From AD 420 to 589, China was divided into two parts, '''the Southern and Northern dynasties''' (南北朝). The '''Sui Dynasty''' (隋朝, 581—618) reunified China in 581. Sui were famous for major public works projects, such as the engineering feat of the [[Along the Grand Canal|Grand Canal]], which gradually developed into the Canal linking Beijing in the north to Hangzhou in the south. Certain sections of the canal are still navigable today. [[File:Great Wall of China (I) (7183821235).jpg|thumb|The Great Wall]] In 618 AD, the Sui were supplanted by the '''Tang Dynasty''' (唐朝, 618- 907), ushering in the second golden age of Chinese civilization, marked by a flowering of Chinese poetry, the rise of Buddhism and statecraft. After the collapse of the Tang Dynasty in AD 907, China was divided again, until it was reunified under the '''Song Dynasty''' (宋朝, 960—1279) in AD 960. In 1127, the Song were driven south of the Huai river by the Jurchens, where they continued to rule as the Southern Song based in Linan (临安 ''Lín'ān'', modern-day Hangzhou). Although militarily weak, the Song was China's economic golden age, attaining a high level of commercial and economic development that would be unmatched in the West until the [[Industrial Revolution]]. The '''Yuan Dynasty''' (元朝, 1271—1368, one of the four divisions of the [[Mongol Empire]]) defeated the Jurchens, then conquered the Song in 1279, and ruled the vast empire from Khanbaliq (大都 ''Dàdū'', modern-day Beijing). After defeating the Mongols, the '''Ming dynasty''' (明朝, 1368—1644) re-instituted rule by ethnic Han. The Ming period was noted for trade and exploration, with [[Voyages of Zheng He|Zheng He's numerous voyages]] to [[Southeast Asia]], [[India]] and the [[Middle East|Arab world]], even reaching the eastern coast of [[Africa]]; see [[Maritime Silk Road]]. Famous buildings in Beijing, such as the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven, were built in this period. The last imperial dynasty, the '''Qing dynasty''' (清朝, 1644—1911), were ethnic Manchus who further expanded the Chinese empire to roughly its current boundaries by incorporating the western regions of Xinjiang and Tibet. The Qing dynasty fell into decay in the 19th century and China was often described as the "sick man of Asia" (東亞病夫/东亚病夫). It was nibbled apart by the Western powers and Japan, a period dubbed by the Chinese as the "Century of Humiliation". The Westerners and Japanese established their own treaty ports in Guangzhou, Shanghai and Tianjin. China lost several territories to foreign powers, including Hong Kong to Britain, and Taiwan to Japan, and it lost control of its tributaries, Vietnam, Korea and the Ryukyu Islands. This is also the period where the stereotypical appearance of Chinese people, such as pigtails, Manchu hairstyles, and ''magua'' (a kind of Manchu clothing) got rooted in other foreign countries due to a surge of foreign communications since the sea ban. The turmoil during the end of the Qing Dynasty and Republic of China-era led to the emigration of many Chinese, who established overseas Chinese communities in many other parts of the world. Most overseas Chinese who emigrated before World War II were from [[Fujian]], [[Guangdong]] or [[Hainan]], making those provinces the natural places to go if you want to explore the [[legacy of the Overseas Chinese]]. ====The Republic and World War II==== {{see also|Chinese Revolutionary Destinations|Pacific War|Long March}} The 2000-year-old imperial system collapsed in 1911, when Sun Yat-Sen founded the '''Republic of China'''. Central rule collapsed in 1916 after Yuan Shih-kai, the second president of the Republic and self-declared emperor, passed away; China descended into anarchy, with warlords ruling over different regions of China and fighting wars with each other. In 1919, student protests in Beijing over the perceived unfavorable terms of the Treaty of Versailles (since China had participated in [[World War I]] as part of the Allies) gave birth to the "May Fourth Movement", which espoused reforms to Chinese society, such as the use of the vernacular in writing, and the development of science and democracy. The intellectual ferment of the movement gave birth to the reorganized '''Kuomintang''' (KMT) in 1919 and the '''Chinese Communist Party''' (CCP), in 1921. It also laid the foundation for the establishment of Standard Mandarin as the first standard spoken form of Chinese for the entire country. After much of eastern China was united under KMT rule in 1928, the CCP and the KMT turned on each other, and the CCP fled to Yan'an in Shaanxi in the epic [[Long March]]. Although Shanghai became one of the most prosperous cities in East Asia during the 1920s and 30s, underlying problems throughout the vast countryside, particularly the more inland parts of the country, such as civil unrest, extreme poverty, famines and warlord conflict, remained. Japan established a puppet state of Manchukuo in Manchuria in 1931, and launched a full-scale invasion of China's heartland in 1937. The Japanese implemented a brutal system of rule in the occupied territories, culminating in the Nanjing Massacre of 1937. After fleeing west to Chongqing, the KMT signed a tenuous agreement with the CCP to form a united front against the Japanese. With the defeat of Japan at the end of World War II in 1945, the KMT and CCP armies maneuvered for positions in north China, setting the stage for the civil war. The civil war lasted from 1945 to 1949. The Kuomintang were defeated and forced to retreat to Taiwan where they hoped to re-establish themselves and recapture the mainland someday. ==== A Red China==== [[File:·˙·ChinaUli2010·.· Beijing - Entrance of the Forbidden Town - panoramio.jpg|thumb|The entrance to the Imperial City nowadays features a Mao picture and red flags]] On 1 Oct 1949, Mao Zedong proclaimed the establishment of the '''People's Republic of China''' (中华人民共和国). After an initial period closely hewing to the Soviet model of heavy industrialization and comprehensive central economic planning, China began to experiment with adapting Marxism to a largely agrarian society. Massive social experiments rocked China from 1957 to 1976. The Great Leap Forward aimed to collectivize and industrialize China quickly. The Cultural Revolution aimed to change everything by discipline, destruction of the "Four Olds" (customs, culture, habits, ideas), and total dedication to Mao Zedong Thought. The Great Leap Forward and Cultural Revolution are generally considered disastrous failures in China that caused the deaths of tens of millions of people. The effects of the Cultural Revolution in particular can still be felt: many elements of traditional Chinese culture and folk beliefs continue to thrive in Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan and overseas Chinese communities, but have largely disappeared in mainland China. Mao died in 1976, and in 1978, Deng Xiaoping became China's paramount leader. Deng and his lieutenants gradually introduced market-oriented reforms and decentralized economic decision making. One of the innovations was the creation of [[List_of_Chinese_provinces_and_regions#Development_zones|Special Economic Zones]] with tax breaks and other government measures to encourage investment and development; these still exist and are quite prosperous. China's miraculous growth since 1978 has been an extraordinary achievement. Significant problems remain, however, including inflation, regional income inequality, human rights abuses, major environmental issues, rural poverty, and ethnic conflict in Xinjiang and Tibet. In particular, blatant corruption was a major cause of large scale political movements in 1989, which in turn resulted in the bloody suppression of protesters in urban [[Beijing]], often known as the '''Tiananmen Massacre'''. The incident is still a sensitive and highly censored topic in China. Hu Jintao, who was paramount leader from around 2002 to 2012, proclaimed a policy for a "Harmonious Society", which promised to restore balanced economic growth and channel investment and prosperity into China's central and western provinces. China has developed economically at a breakneck speed since the 1990s, and overtook [[Japan]] to become the world's second largest economy after the [[United States]] in 2010, cementing its place again as a major political, military and economic world power. China has also expanded its international clout and become a major source of foreign investment, particularly in much of the Global South. President Xi Jinping launched the Belt and Road Initiative in 2013, which attempts to expand international trading networks through Chinese investment in transportation infrastructure. It largely follows the route of the old [[Silk Road]]. While Xi's administration is often criticized for being more dictatorial than previous ones, China's international influence has also expanded considerably under him, and blatant corruption has been significantly reduced. Moreover, many poorer areas in western China that had largely been left behind by the economic boom are now beginning to see more government investment in infrastructure and poverty alleviation. China is now an upper middle income country. Two former colonies, [[Hong Kong]] (British) and [[Macau]] (Portuguese), rejoined China in 1997 and 1999 respectively. They are [[List_of_Chinese_provinces_and_regions#Province-level_divisions|Special Administrative Regions]] (SARs), run differently under the slogan "One country, two systems". This article does not cover them because for practical travel purposes, they function like different countries with their own visas, currencies, and laws. ===Government and politics=== {{see also|Chinese provinces and regions}} China is an authoritarian state ruled by the Communist Party of China. The "paramount leader" is the General Secretary of the Communist Party, who holds several other offices including ceremonial President. The State Council forms the executive branch; the next most powerful leader is the Premier of the State Council, who is the head of government (like a prime minister). The legislative branch consists of the unicameral National People's Congress (NPC), the largest legislature in the world with almost 3,000 delegates. The NPC is often described as a "rubber stamping" body; it vetoed no bills and members have complained about their lack of power. China is constitutionally a unitary state, with mainland China administratively divided into 22 provinces, 5 autonomous regions and 4 directly-controlled municipalities. Provincial governments have their own legislatures, and are granted limited autonomy in their internal and economic affairs. Autonomous regions have more autonomy than provinces, such as the right to declare additional official languages and public holidays. Directly controlled municipalities are cities that are not part of any province, and instead report directly to the central government in Beijing. Under the provincial level, in decreasing order of precedence, are prefectures ((地级)市/自治州/地区), counties (县/(县级)市/区) and townships (乡/镇/街道). The Special Administrative Regions (SAR), [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], in principle run themselves as separate jurisdictions, with only foreign policy and defense being controlled by Beijing, though in practice this autonomy is restricted. There is an active independence movement in Hong Kong, but the imposition of the National Security Law in 2020 has largely driven the movement underground. The PRC considers [[Taiwan]] to be one of its provinces, but Taiwan's government (the Republic of China) has been completely separate from the mainland Chinese one since 1949. Both governments on paper continue to claim to be the sole legitimate government for all of China. There is significant support for formal independence in Taiwan, but China's government has repeatedly threatened to launch a military attack on Taiwan if the island declares itself independent. See [[Chinese provinces and regions]] for more detail. ===People and customs=== {{seealso|Minority cultures of China}} With 1.4 billion inhabitants, China is home to nearly a fifth of the world's population. It is a diverse place with large variations in culture, language, customs and economic levels from region to region, and often strong distinct cultural and regional identities as well. The economic landscape is particularly diverse. The major cities such as Beijing, Guangzhou and Shanghai are modern and comparatively wealthy. However, about 50% of Chinese still live in rural areas even though only 10% of China's land is arable. Hundreds of millions of rural residents still farm with manual labor or draft animals. Some 200 to 300 million former peasants have migrated to townships and cities in search of work. Poverty has been reduced dramatically, but towards the end of 2016, China still had 43 million people under the official poverty line of ¥2,300 (about US$334) in annual income. At the other end of the spectrum, the wealthy continue to accumulate real estate and other assets at an unprecedented rate. Generally the southern and eastern coastal regions are more wealthy, while inland areas, the far west and north, and the south-west are much less developed. The cultural landscape is also very diverse. Han Chinese are the largest ethnic group, comprising over 90% of the population, but they are not culturally homogeneous, and speak a wide variety of mutually unintelligible dialects and languages. Many customs and deities are specific to individual regions and even villages. Celebrations for the Lunar New Year and other national festivals vary dramatically from region to region. Customs related to the celebration of important occasions such as weddings, funerals and births also vary widely. The Cultural Revolution wiped out much of traditional Chinese religion, and while it still survives to some extent, contemporary urban Chinese society is largely secular with religion being an undercurrent to daily life. That said, there has been a cultural revival in the 21st century, largely spearheaded by young middle class Chinese, who are now using social media to promote various aspects of their traditional cultures. The other 10% of the population are 55 recognized ethnic minorities — the largest of which are the Zhuang, Manchu, Hui and Miao (Hmong) — which each have their own unique cultures and languages. Other notable ethnic minorities include Koreans, Tibetans, Mongols, Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and Russians. China is home to the largest Korean population outside Korea, and is home to more ethnic Mongols than is [[Mongolia]]. Many minorities have been assimilated to various degrees, losing their language and customs or fusing with Han traditions, although Tibetans and Uyghurs in China remain fiercely defensive of their cultures. In some areas, some ethnic minorities, such as the Mongols, Kazakhs, Kyrgyz and Tibetans, continue to maintain their traditional nomadic way of life, though that is changing as the younger generation gets better access to education and moves to the cities for higher-paying jobs, and even those who preserve the nomadic lifestyle often adopt numerous modern conveniences, such as replacing their horses with motorcycles. ====Lucky numbers==== Many Chinese people like homophones, and several numerals are considered auspicious or inauspicious based on rhymes with other Chinese words. '''"Six"''' is a good number for business, sounding like "slick" or "smooth" in Mandarin, and "good fortune" or "happiness" in Cantonese. '''"Eight"''' sounds so close to the word for "prosper" that it's widely considered auspicious. '''"Nine"''' used to be associated with the Emperor, and also sounds like "long lasting". Meanwhile, '''"four"''' is a taboo for most Chinese because the pronunciation in Mandarin, Cantonese and most other Chinese dialects is close to "death"; some buildings skip floors and room numbers that contain 4s. ===Climate and terrain=== [[File:Haitang Bay in Sanya.jpg|thumb|[[Hainan]] is a popular destination in tropical China. Taken in [[Sanya]].]] The climate is extremely diverse, from tropical regions in the south to subarctic in the north. [[Hainan]] Island is roughly at the same latitude as Jamaica, while [[Harbin]], one of the largest cities in the north, is at roughly the latitude of Montreal and has the climate to match. North China has four distinct seasons with intensely hot summers and bitterly cold winters. Southern China tends to be milder and wetter. The further north and west you travel, the drier the climate. Once you leave eastern China and enter the majestic Tibetan highlands or the vast steppes and deserts of Gansu, Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang, distances are vast and the land is harsh. During the communist planned economy era, uniform rules required that buildings in areas north of the Yangtze River get heat in the winter, but anything south of it would not &mdash; this meant buildings were unheated in places like Shanghai and Nanjing, which routinely have temperatures below freezing in winter. The rule was relaxed long ago, but the effects are still visible; buildings in the north are provided with steam-based central heating by the government, while buildings in the south are not and instead have to rely on private air-conditioning units for heating. In general, Chinese use less heating and less building insulation, and wear more warm clothing, than Westerners in comparable climates. In schools, apartments and office buildings, even if the rooms are heated, the corridors are not. Double-glazing is quite rare. Students and teachers wear winter jackets in class, and long underwear is common. Air-conditioning is increasingly common but is similarly not used in corridors and is often used with the windows and doors open. China has many inland mountain ranges, high plateaus, and deserts in the center and the far west; plains, deltas, and hills dominate the east. The [[Pearl River Delta]] region around Guangzhou and Hong Kong and the [[Along the Yangtze river|Yangtze delta]] around Shanghai are major global economic powerhouses, as is the North China plain around Beijing and the Yellow River. On the border between Tibet (the Tibet Autonomous Region) and Nepal lies Mount [[Everest]], at 8,850&nbsp;m, the highest point on earth. The [[Turpan]] depression, in northwest China's Xinjiang is the lowest point in China at 154&nbsp;m below sea level, which is the second-lowest point in the world after the [[Dead Sea]]. ===Units of measure=== China's official system of measurement is metric, but you will sometimes hear the traditional Chinese system of measurements in colloquial usage. The one you are most likely to come across in everyday use is the unit of mass ''jīn'' (斤), nowadays equal to 0.5&nbsp;kg in mainland China. Most Chinese will quote their weight in ''jīn'' if asked, and food prices in markets are often quoted per ''jīn''. One ''jīn'' was traditionally divided into 16 ''liǎng'' (两), but in mainland China it is now 10 ''liǎng''. The modern mainland Chinese versions of these units differ from their counterparts in [[Taiwan]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], so be sure to know the proper conversions if you are coming from those areas. ===Holidays=== {{CNYdates}} China observes two week-long holidays during the year, called '''[[Golden Week holidays in China|Golden Weeks]]'''. During these weeks, around '''Chinese New Year''' (late January to mid-February) and '''National Day''' (1 October), hundreds of millions of migrant workers return home and millions of other Chinese travel within the country (but many in the service sector stay behind, enjoying extra pay). Try to avoid being on the road, on the rails, or in the air during the major holidays. If you do have to travel then, plan well in advance, especially for transportation and for travel from western China or the east coast. Every mode of transportation is extremely crowded; tickets are very hard to come by, and will cost you a lot more. Air tickets sell out more slowly because of the higher prices. The Chinese New Year period is the largest annual migration of people on Earth. [[File:New Year Scene.jpg|thumb|Chinese New Year]] China has seven national holidays: * '''New Year''' (元旦 ''Yuándàn'') — 1 January * '''Spring Festival''' (春节 ''Chūn Jié''), a.k.a. '''Chinese New Year''' — 1st day of the 1st lunar month, late January to mid-February (1 February in 2022) * '''Tomb-Sweeping Day''' (清明节 ''Qīngmíng Jié'') — 15th day from the Spring Equinox, 4 to 6 April (5 April in 2022). Cemeteries are crowded with people who go to sweep the tombs of their ancestors and offer sacrifices. Traffic on the way to cemeteries can be very heavy. * '''Labor Day''' (劳动节 ''Láodòng Jié'') — 1 May * '''Dragon Boat Festival''' (端午节 ''Duānwǔ Jié'') — 5th day of the 5th lunar month, late May to June (3 June in 2022). Boat races and eating rice dumplings (粽子 zòngzi, steamed pouches of sticky rice) are a traditional part of the celebration. * '''Mid-Autumn Festival''' (中秋节 ''Zhōngqiū Jié''） — 15th day of the 8th lunar month, September to early October (10 September in 2022). Also called the "Mooncake Festival" after its signature treat, mooncakes (月饼 ''yuèbǐng''). People meet outside, put food on the tables and look up at the full harvest moon. * '''National Day''' (国庆节 ''Guóqìng Jié'') — 1 October Known as the '''Golden Weeks''', Chinese New Year and National Day holidays span multiple days; nearly all workers get at least a week for Chinese New Year and some of them get two or three. For many working Chinese, these are the only times of the year they get to travel. Students get four to six weeks of holiday. Chinese New Year is a traditional time to visit family, and the entire country pretty much shuts down. Many stores and other businesses will close from a few days to a week or longer. In early July, around 20 million university students will return home and then in late August they will return to school. Roads, railways and planes are also very busy at these times. Ethnic minority regions often have additional public holidays for their respective traditional festivals that are not observed in the Han Chinese heartland. For instance, both Eids are public holidays in [[Xinjiang]] and [[Ningxia]], Losar or Tibetan New Year is a public holiday in [[Tibet]], while Songkran, better known in the West as Thai New Year, is a public holiday in ethnic Dai areas like [[Xishuangbanna]] and [[Dehong]]. See the articles for the relevant ethnic minority areas for details. Here are some other nationally important festivals: * '''Lantern Festival''' (元宵节 ''Yuánxiāo Jié'' or 上元节 ''Shàngyuán Jié'') — 15th day of the 1st lunar month, traditionally the last day of the Chinese New Year, February to early March (15 February in 2022). In some cities, such as Quanzhou, this is a big festival with elaborate lanterns all over town. * '''Double Seventh Day''' (七夕 ''Qīxī'') — 7th day of the 7th lunar month, usually August (4 August in 2022). This romantic holiday is similar to Valentine's Day. * '''Double Ninth Festival''' or Chongyang Festival (重阳节 ''Chóngyáng Jié'') — 9th day of the 9th lunar month, usually October (4 October in 2022) * '''Winter Solstice''' (冬至 ''Dōngzhì'') — 21 to 23 December (22 December in 2022) Some Western festivals are noticeable, at least in major cities. Around Christmas, one hears carols &mdash; some in English, some in Chinese, and one from Hong Kong that goes "Lonely, lonely Christmas". Some stores are decorated and many shop assistants wear red and white elf hats. Chinese Christians celebrate services and masses at officially sanctioned Protestant and Catholic churches as well. For Valentine's Day, many restaurants offer special meals. Around the longer holidays (especially the two Golden Weeks and sometimes Labor Day), surrounding weekends may be rearranged to make the holiday longer. This means that around major holidays, places may be closed when they're usually open or open when they would usually be closed. ===Time zones=== Despite geographically spanning five time zones, all of China officially follows Beijing Time (UTC+8). However, in the restive province of Xinjiang, while the official time is Beijing Time, some ethnic Uyghurs use the UTC+6 time zone for practicality or as a sign of defiance against Beijing. ===Read=== * ''Wild Swans'' by Jung Chang (''{{ISBN|0007176155}}'') - a biography of three generations, from the warlord days to the end of Mao's era, illustrating life under China's version of nationalism and communism. This book is banned in China. *''The Search for Modern China'' by Jonathan Spence - a standard history book on modern China from the late Ming to the current period. *''From the Soil'' by Fei Xiaotong, a book focusing on rural China and human relationships. === See also === {{topicsin|China|0}} ==Talk== {{see also|Chinese phrasebook}} [[Image:Map of sinitic languages-en.svg|thumb|upright=1.5|Map of Chinese dialects]] The official language of China is '''[[Chinese phrasebook|Standard Mandarin]]''', known in Chinese as ''Pǔtōnghuà'' (普通话, "common speech"), which is based on the Beijing dialect; Chinese in general is known as ''Zhōngwén'' (中文). Standard Mandarin is the main language for government and media, as well as the national lingua franca. While the official language is standardized, local pronunciation of Mandarin does vary by region. Unless otherwise noted, all terms, spellings and pronunciations in this guide are in Standard Mandarin. While national media is broadcast in Mandarin, each area often has its own local media that broadcasts in the local language. Chinese is written using '''Chinese characters''' (汉字, ''hànzì'', lit. "Han characters"). Unlike an alphabet that represents individual sounds without any inherent meaning, each Chinese character represents a meaningful syllable: a specific word or part of a word. Although they look impenetrable at first, there is some method to the madness: most characters are composed from base components combined with other characters (often giving clues to both pronunciation and general meaning). The same characters are used in Japan and Korea with usually similar meanings, albeit different pronunciations. However, since the 1950s mainland China has used '''simplified characters''', such as <span lang="zh-Hans">龟</span> instead of <span lang="zh-Hant">龜</span>, in an attempt to eradicate illiteracy. Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and many overseas Chinese still use the traditional characters, which are also sometimes used on the mainland as an aesthetic choice. As a result, a word like "bank" will be written <span lang="zh-Hant">銀行</span> as often as <span lang="zh-Hans">银行</span>. The simplification was fairly systematic, and you may deduce at least some of the simplifications on your own just from seeing them frequently. Cursive forms of Chinese characters, often used for effect in logos, range from "looks familiar if you squint" to "impenetrable scribbles". The standard way of romanizing Mandarin is '''pinyin''' (汉语拼音 ''hànyǔ pīnyīn''). It's a fairly logical system, although it has a few idiosyncrasies, including using some letters in ways that are different from English (such as ''q'' which is similar to English "ch" and ''x'' which is like English "sh"). Mandarin is also '''tonal''', meaning each syllable has to be pronounced with the correct tone &mdash; high, rising, falling-rising, falling, or neutral &mdash; to be understood; tones are marked in pinyin using diacritics that graphically mimic the tones patterns (as in ''mā'', ''má'', ''mǎ'', ''mà'', and ''ma''). With just a few hours of practice, you can learn to pronounce Mandarin words accurately using pinyin. However, as Chinese has many homophones, pinyin is useful for pronunciation but not practical for communicating meaning; for something like a street address, you need to use Chinese characters. Although Chinese is ''written'' nearly the same across the country, '''spoken Chinese''' has a huge array of '''dialects''', of which Standard Mandarin is just one. Verbally, Chinese dialects are as different from each other as English and Dutch, or French and Italian &mdash; related, but not mutually intelligible. Two people who speak different Chinese dialects read and write the same, but they would pronounce the written text differently, and can't carry on a conversation with each other. However, thanks to heavy emphasis in the education system, most people can comfortably carry on a conversation in Standard Mandarin, though sometimes with a strong accent. In some areas, younger people are more likely to speak Mandarin than dialects, due to previous education policies that prohibited the use of dialects in school. A variety of (mainly northern) dialects closely related to the standard are classified as Mandarin and account for the majority of China's population. Other large groups of dialects include '''[[Wu phrasebook|Wu]]''' (spoken in Shanghai, Zhejiang and southern [[Jiangsu]]) and '''Yue''' (Guangdong), which includes '''[[Cantonese phrasebook|Cantonese]]''' (spoken in much of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau). The '''Min''' (Fujian) group includes '''[[Minnan phrasebook|Minnan]]''' (Hokkien, spoken in [[South Fujian]] and in Taiwan), '''[[Fuzhou dialect phrasebook|Fuzhou dialect]]''' (Foochow or Hokchiu, spoken around [[Fuzhou]]), '''[[Teochew phrasebook|Teochew]]''' (Chiuchow, spoken in [[Chaoshan]]) and '''[[Hainanese phrasebook|Hainanese]]''' (spoken in the island province [[Hainan]]). '''[[Hakka phrasebook|Hakka]]''' is spoken in several parts of southern China but is more related to northern dialects. Like Mandarin, these are all tonal languages. Most Chinese are bilingual or even trilingual, speaking Mandarin as well as regional or local dialects. Some who are older or less educated may speak only the local dialect. While you can easily get by in most of China speaking Mandarin, learning a bit of the local dialect is always appreciated, and may get you preferential treatment in shops and restaurants. Besides dialects of Chinese, various regions also have ethnic minority languages. The west has '''Turkic languages''' such as [[Uyghur phrasebook|Uyghur]], [[Kyrgyz phrasebook|Kyrgyz]], and [[Kazakh phrasebook|Kazakh]] as well as other languages such as '''[[Tibetan phrasebook|Tibetan]]'''; the north and northeast has [[Manchu phrasebook|Manchu]], [[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]], and [[Korean phrasebook|Korean]]; the south has many other ethnic minorities who speak their own languages. However, except for some older folks, Mandarin is generally usable in these regions and many people are bilingual. In areas with large ethnic minority populations, the relevant ethnic minority language is sometimes co-official with Mandarin, and you may see bilingual road signs. '''Chinese Sign Language''' (CSL or ZGS, 中国手语 ''Zhōngguó Shǒuyǔ'') is the dominant sign language. There is an official version of CSL standardized by the government. There are also two regional dialects, Southern (from Shanghai) and Northern (from Beijing), used by the deaf community in daily communication; these and official CSL are largely mutually intelligible. CSL is not mutually intelligible with Hong Kong, Taiwanese, or Malaysian Sign Languages, nor with any others. '''Tibetan Sign Language''' (藏语手语 ''Zàng yǔ shǒuyǔ'') is an independent sign language used in Tibet, not mutually intelligible with any others; it too is standardized by the government based on existing regional sign languages. ===English=== Chinese students study English from primary school to high school, and are required to pass an English test in order to graduate from university. However, the focus is mainly on formal grammar and writing, with less emphasis on reading, and even less on speaking or listening. While a few simple greetings are widely understood, it is generally rare to find locals who are conversant in English. Staff at airports, hotels, and popular tourist attractions can sometimes speak basic to conversational English. As China's tourism industry primarily caters to the domestic market, outside major international tourist cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Xi'an, even staff at hotels and tourist attractions may not be conversant in English. When [[Talk#Speaking English with non-native speakers|using English]], '''simplify and speak slowly'''. Chinese grammar is much simpler than English, as verbs, pronouns, and other words essentially don't inflect at all. Although it sounds abrupt in English, simple declarative sentences like "Give me two beers" are quite similar to Chinese, and thus more readily understood than roundabout constructions like "Could we have a pair of beers please?". [[File:Shenzhen River chinglish warning sign.JPG|thumb|A typical "Chinglish" sign]] While English signage or menus are increasingly widespread in China, especially at or near tourist attractions, they are often written in incorrect English. Such signage can be difficult to read, but as "Chinglish" follows certain rules, it can usually be deciphered. Oftentimes, translations are simply a word-by-word equivalent of a Chinese expression which, like a word puzzle, can sometimes be pieced together with some thought, but in other cases may be utterly baffling. Many places have an '''English Corner''', an informal gathering for [[Teaching English|practicing oral English]], which can be a good way to meet locals. They're often held at schools and colleges on Friday afternoons, and on Sundays in public parks, English schools, and bookstores, and universities. Topics often include cultural activities like holidays and festivals from English speaking countries, such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. However, these have been progressively disappearing over the past decade due to the prolific rise of language exchange over the internet in China, and have all but disappeared in smaller cities. ===Other foreign languages=== Although not as widespread as English, some other foreign languages are of use in China. [[Korean phrasebook|Korean]] is spoken as a native language by the ethnic Korean minority in the north east of the country, while [[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]] is the native language of the ethnic Mongol community in Inner Mongolia. [[Japanese phrasebook|Japanese]] is spoken by some professionals in international businesses. [[German phrasebook|German]] is a popular language for engineering professionals. [[Russian phrasebook|Russian]] is often spoken by residents of the towns on the Russian border. [[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]] is commonly studied by Muslim religious leaders. ==Get in== ===Immigration=== {{main|Visa requirements for China}} China has exceptionally complicated '''visa requirements'''. If you are planning to use visa-free entry or transit without a visa, [[Visa requirements for China|read up carefully]] and make sure you fulfill ''all'' the requirements, or risk being denied entry. If you're applying for a visa, make sure all your documentation is in order before applying for your visa, or risk being denied if even one required document is missing. That said, the Chinese government has been rapidly liberalizing its visa requirements. [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] have their own visa requirements; see those articles for details. When entering or departing mainland China, citizens of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan are required to use the Chinese citizen lanes and not the foreigner lanes at immigration. Foreigners are required to '''register their place of lodging''' with the local police. In general your hotel should do this for you, but if you're staying somewhere unusual (such as with friends), you might have to do it yourself. Make sure the registration gets done, at least in the first place you stay after entering China, as failing to do it can cause problems getting a Chinese visa in the future. ===Customs=== Each visitor aged 18 and over is entitled to a duty-free allowance of up to 1.5&nbsp;L of alcoholic beverages, and up to 400 cigarettes, 20 cigars or 500&nbsp;g of tobacco. The allowance is halved if you enter Mainland China through Hong Kong and Macau. For other goods, there is a duty-free relief of ¥2,000 for foreigners and ¥5,000 for Chinese citizens. Per an updated agreement between Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, the duty-free relief for Chinese citizens returning from Hong Kong and Macau (excluding those entering from Hengqin Port) is ¥15,000, with an additional ¥3,000 relief for goods purchased in duty-free shops. You are required to declare to customs if you are carrying more than ¥20,000 in Chinese currency or more than US$5,000 worth of foreign currency in or out of the country. If you are doing business in China, you may need to file some advance paperwork to prove that you earned your money legally and paid all your taxes before you can take it out of the country. ===By plane=== {{infobox|Transiting through Hong Kong and Macau|If arriving in Hong Kong or Macau there are ferries that can shuttle passengers straight to another destination such as Shekou or Bao'an Airport in Shenzhen, Macau Airport, Zhuhai and elsewhere without actually "entering" Hong Kong or Macau. A shuttle bus takes transit passengers to the ferry terminal so their official entry point, where they clear immigration, will be the ferry destination rather than the airport. The ferries do have different hours so landing late at night may make it necessary to enter either territory to catch another bus or ferry to one's ultimate destination. For example, it would be necessary to clear immigration if going from Hong Kong International Airport to Zhuhai via the Hong Kong China Ferry Terminal in Kowloon. The most recent information on the ferries to Hong Kong can be found at [http://www.hongkongairport.com/eng/index.html the Hong Kong International Airport website].}} The main international gateways to mainland China are [[Beijing]] ({{IATA|PEK}} & {{IATA|PKX}}, for all airports {{IATA|BJS}}), [[Shanghai]] ({{IATA|PVG}}) and [[Guangzhou]] ({{IATA|CAN}}). The explosive growth of commercial aviation in China has led to the proliferation of international gateways to the country. Local governments also frequently subsidize international flight routes serving their cities, so these services may be much cheaper. In particular, [[Chengdu]] ({{IATA|CTU}} & {{IATA|TFU}}), [[Chongqing]] ({{IATA|CKG}}), [[Kunming]] ({{IATA|KMG}}) and [[Urumqi]] ({{IATA|URC}}) are emerging as major Chinese hubs, with flights to destinations in North America, Europe, Oceania and Central Asia. Airline tickets are expensive or hard to come by around Chinese New Year, the Chinese golden weeks and university holidays. If you live in a city with a sizeable overseas Chinese community, check for cheap flights with someone in that community or visit travel agencies operated by Chinese. Sometimes flights advertised only in Chinese newspapers or travel agencies cost significantly less than posted fares in English. However if you go and ask, you can get the same discounted price. Since 2020, the Indian government has banned all direct flights between mainland China and India, and as of March 2025, their resumption is still being negotiated. For now, travellers must connect via Hong Kong or a Southeast Asian hub like [[Bangkok]], [[Kuala Lumpur]] or [[Singapore]]. ====Airlines==== The three largest, and state-owned airlines are flag carrier '''[https://www.airchina.com/ Air China]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (中国国际航空), as well as '''[https://www.ceair.com/ China Eastern Airlines]''' (中国东方航空) and '''[http://www.csair.com/ China Southern Airlines]''' (中国南方航空), based in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou respectively. Other airlines include '''[https://www.xiamenair.com/ XiamenAir]''' (厦门航空), '''[https://www.hainanairlines.com/ Hainan Airlines]''' (海南航空), '''[https://global.shenzhenair.com Shenzhen Airlines]''' (深圳航空) and '''[http://www.sichuanair.com/ Sichuan Airlines]''' (四川航空). Chinese aviation regulations allow usage of mobile phones with flight mode when the aircraft is moving, and some larger flights may even offer Wi-Fi. [[Hong Kong]]-based [https://www.cathaypacific.com Cathay Pacific] can connect from many international destinations to all the major mainland cities. Other Asian carriers with good connections into China include [https://www.singaporeair.com/ Singapore Airlines], Japan-based [https://www.jal.co.jp/en/ Japan Airlines] and [https://www.ana.co.jp/ All Nippon Airways], South Korea-based [https://www.koreanair.com Korean Air] and [https://flyasiana.com/ Asiana Airlines], and Taiwan-based [https://www.china-airlines.com/ China Airlines] and [https://www.evaair.com/ EVA Air]. Check the individual city articles for details. See [[Discount airlines in Asia]] for some additional options to reach China and to get around within it. ===By train=== [[File:Trans Mongolian wheel changing.JPG|thumb|Going by train between Mongolia and China, the carriages will need new wheels]] Train travel to China was once possible all the way from western Europe, but the Russia-Ukraine war means that this is no longer possible. A number of international services suspended during COVID-19 have also yet to restart. <!-- * '''North Korea''' (suspended) — four weekly connections between the North Korean capital [[Pyongyang]] and Beijing.--> * '''Mongolia & Russia''' — There are daily trains between [[Ulaanbaatar]] and [[Erenhot]] (681-686), [[Hohhot]] twice a week (4652/3/4/1, called 033/4 in Mongolia), and [[Beijing]] once a week (K23/4, or 023/4). But on Russian side, only 401/2 shuttle train between [[Suifenhe]] and Grodekovo, [[Primorsky Krai|Pogranichny]] remains everyday. All other [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] trains to China are still suspended until future notices, depend on when the war ends. * '''Kazakhstan & Central Asia''' — A tourism train between [[Xi'an]] and [[Almaty]], the Y29/30, started running in 2025, with an interchange in Khorgos. The 054/3 runs from [[Astana]] to Dostyk; passengers then have to do a cross-border transfer to 5801-6 at Alashankou to go to [[Urumqi]]. * '''Laos''' — A daily train D87/8 runs between [[Kunming]] and [[Vientiane]], stopping at several stations along the way, including [[Vang Vieng]], [[Luang Prabang]], and [[Boten]] in Laos and [[Mohan]], [[Xishuangbanna]] and [[Pu'er]] in China. There's also D85/6 between Luang Prabang and Pu'er every Friday to Monday. * '''Vietnam''' — Train T8701/8702 (MR1/2 in Vietnam) from Gia Lam, [[Hanoi]] to [[Nanning]] in Guangxi, where you may choose to transfer Z5/6 to Beijing. Alternatively, you can take a train from Hanoi to [[Lao Cai]], walk or take a taxi across the border to [[Hekou]], and take a train from Hekou North to [[Kunming]]. * '''Hong Kong''' — frequent daily [[high-speed rail]] services link West Kowloon Station in [[Hong Kong]] with [[Shenzhen]] and [[Guangzhou]], with long-distance services continuing on to numerous major cities across China such as [[Shanghai]], [[Beijing]], [[Chengdu]], [[Chongqing]], [[Kunming]] and [[Xi'an]]. There are also overnight high-speed sleeper trains to Shanghai and Beijing four times a week. Both Hong Kong and mainland Chinese immigration checks are conducted at West Kowloon Station, so be sure to factor in extra time for them. Alternatively, you can take the MTR East Rail to Lo Wu or Lok Ma Chau and cross the border on foot. Both border crossings are connected to stations on the Shenzhen Metro on the mainland Chinese side; Luohu in the case of Lo Wu, and Futian Checkpoint in the case of Lok Ma Chau. Shenzhen Railway Station is adjacent to the Lo Wu/Luohu border crossing, making it convenient for transfers to long-distance trains. * '''Macau''' — [[Macau]] is not connected to the rail network, but [[Zhuhai]] Railway Station is adjacent to the Gongbei border crossing from the Portas do Cerco in Macau. The Hengqin Line of the Macau LRT serves Hengqin Port in Zhuhai, which is connected to Hengqin Railway Station, where you can transfer to suburban trains headed for Zhuhai station. Both Macau and mainland immigration and customs checks are conducted at Hengqin Port. ===By road=== China has land borders with 14 countries. Mainland China also has land borders with the Special Administrative Regions of [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], which are similar to international borders. Most of the border crossings in western China are in remote mountain passes, which while difficult to reach and traverse, often reward travelers willing to make the effort with breathtaking scenic views. From south through west to northeast: ====Hong Kong==== See the [[Hong_Kong#By_other_land_crossings|Hong Kong]] article for more information on road border crossings into mainland China from Hong Kong. '''Cycling into mainland China''' is only permitted through the Heung Yuen Wai/Liantang border crossing. A visa on arrival is available for some nationalities at the Lok Ma Chau/Huanggang crossing if you do not plan to travel beyond Shenzhen, but visas must be arranged in advance for all other crossings. ====Macau==== The two border crossings are at the '''Portas do Cerco'''/'''Gongbei''' and the '''Lotus Bridge'''. A visa-on-arrival can be obtained by certain nationalities at the Portas do Cerco provided you don't travel beyond Zhuhai. ====Vietnam==== [[File:Border crossing at Lao Cai.png|thumb|Looking from Vietnam into China]] For most travelers from Southeast Asia, Hanoi is the origin for any overland journey to China. There are 8 major crossings—four to Guangxi and the rest to Yunnan: *Huu Nghi ([[Dong Dang]]), Tan Thanh or Coc Nam/[[Pingxiang (Guangxi)|Youyiguan]] (友谊关) *[[Mong Cai]]/[[Dongxing]] (东兴), buses run between both cities everyday. *Ta Lung/[[Chongzuo|Shuikou]] (水口) *Tra Linh/Longbang (龙邦) *[[Lao Cai]]/[[Hekou]] (河口) *Ma Lu Thang/Jinshuihe (金水河) *Thanh Thuy/Tianbao (天保) *Xin Man/Dulong (都龙) ====Laos==== From [[Luang Namtha]] you can get a bus to [[Mengla]]. You must have a Chinese visa beforehand as there is no way to get one on arrival (240-hour TWOV is only valid for railway enter). Since 2011, Lantouy/Mengkang checkpoint also opened for 3rd countries in same way. Also, there is a direct Chinese sleeper-bus connection from [[Luang Prabang]] to Kunming (about 32 hours). You can jump in this bus at the border, when the minibus from [[Luang Namtha]] and the sleeper meet. Don't pay more than ¥200, though. ====Myanmar (Burma)==== Entering China from Myanmar is possible at the [[Lashio|Muse]]/[[Ruili]], Pang Hseng/Wanding, Kanpitetee/Houqiao, Chinshwehaw/Mengding, Mongla/Daluo and Pang Kham/Menglian border crossings, but permits must be obtained from the Burmese authorities (or for Pang Kham case, Wa State authorities) in advance. Generally, these are only available for residents of the border area and people on guided tours. ====India==== The Nathu La Pass between [[Sikkim]] in India and Southern Tibet is not open to tourists, and both countries require special permits to visit. The pass has reopened for cross-border trade since 2006, so the tourist restriction may be lifted in the future. Another possible way, only for Buddhists or border business, is [[Uttarakhand|Gunji]]/Pulan. ====Nepal==== The [[Nepal#Get in|road from Nepal]] to Tibet passes near Mount Everest, and through amazing mountain scenery. Entering Tibet from Nepal is only possible for tourists on package tours, but it is possible to travel into Nepal from Tibet. When in guided tours, travellers may hop at [[Langtang National Park|Kodari]]/[[Dram]] or Yali/Burang. ====Pakistan==== The [[Karakoram Highway]] from northern [[Pakistan]] into Western China is one of the most spectacular roads in the world. It's closed for tourists for a few months in winter. Crossing the border is relatively quick because of few overland travelers, and friendly relations between the two countries. Preliminary customs inspection is done on the spot, while immigration and customs inspection are done at suburban [[Tashkurgan]]. A bus runs between [[Kashgar]] (China) and [[Gilgit-Baltistan|Sust]] (Pakistan) across the Kunerjab pass. ====Tajikistan==== There is a single border crossing between China and Tajikistan at [[Pamirs|Kulma]]/Karasu, which is open on weekdays from May to November. A bus operates across the border between [[Kashgar]] in Xinjiang and [[Khorog]] in Tajikistan. Ensure both your Chinese and Tajik visas are in order before attempting this crossing. ====Kyrgyzstan==== It is possible to cross the [[Naryn Region|Torugart pass]] from Kyrgyztan, but the road is rough and the pass is only open during the summer months (June–September) every year. It is possible to arrange crossings all the way from Kashgar, but ensure that all your visas are in order. Alternatively, while less scenic, a smoother crossing is at [[Irkeshtam]] to the south of Torugart. ====Kazakhstan==== The border crossing closest to Almaty is at [[Khorgos]]. Buses run almost daily from [[Almaty]] to [[Ürümqi]] and [[Yining]]. No visa-on-arrival is available so ensure that both your Chinese and Kazakh visas are in order before attempting this. Another major crossing is at Alashankou (Dostyk on the Kazakh side). There are also Maykapshagay/Jeminay, Bakhty and Kholzhat/Dulata for interests of snow mountains. ====Mongolia==== There are four border crossings open to foreigners between Mongolia and China: *[[Choibalsan|Sonbuir]]/[[Eastern Inner Mongolia|Arxan]] ([[Inner Mongolia]]) *[[Zamyn-Üüd|Zamyn Uud]]/[[Erlian|Erenhot]] (Inner Mongolia) *Bichig/Zhuen Gadabuqi or Zuun Khatavch (Xilingol, Inner Mongolia) *[[Western Mongolia|Bulgan]]/Takeshiken ([[Xinjiang]]) Other crossings open to nationals are: Khabirga/Arihashate, Bayinkhushu/Ebudug, Gasonsukhaitu/Ganqimaodu, Sibkurun/[[Western Inner Mongolia|Ceke]], Khanji/Mandula in Inner Mongolia, or Burgastai/Laoyemiao, Bulgan Tag/Wulasitai, Sagsai/Hongshanzui in Xinjiang. ====Russia==== The most popular border crossing is at [[Manzhouli]] in [[Inner Mongolia]], connects [[Zabaykalsk]], buses between [[Dalian]] and [[Novosibirsk]] cross here. Farther east, there are land border crossings at [[Suifenhe]] (Pogranichny), [[Heihe]] ([[Blagoveshchensk]]), and [[Hunchun]] (Kraskino). Ensure both your Russian and Chinese visas are in order before attempting the crossing. ====North Korea==== Crossing overland from North Korea at the [[Dandong]]/[[Sinuiju]] border crossing is fairly straightforward if you have arranged it as part of your North Korean tour. The other border crossings along the Yalu and Tumen rivers may not be open to tourists. Your tour company must ensure that your Chinese and North Korean visas are in order before attempting this. ====Others==== Travelers cannot cross the borders with [[Afghanistan]] and [[Bhutan]]. ===By boat=== There are a number of boats to China by sea and river: * '''Hong Kong and Macau''': There is regular ferry and hovercraft service between Hong Kong and Macau and the rest of the Pearl River Delta, such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and [[Zhuhai]]. The ferry services from Hong Kong International Airport allow arriving passengers to proceed directly to mainland China without having to clear Hong Kong immigration and customs. * '''Japan''': A ferry service to [[Shanghai]] from [[Osaka]] and [[Kobe]], Japan. Service is once or twice weekly, depending on the season and takes about 2 days. * '''Russia''': There are also ferries across the Amur between [[Heihe]] and [[Blagoveshchensk]], Fuyuan and [[Khabarovsk]]. * '''South Korea''': A ferry service to Shanghai and Tianjin from [[Incheon]], a port close to [[Seoul]]. Another line is to [[Qingdao]] or [[Weihai]] from Incheon or [[Dalian]] from Incheon. * '''Taiwan''': Hourly ferries (18 departures per day) run from [[Kinmen]] to [[Xiamen]], with the journey time either 30 minutes or one hour depending on port. There is also a regular ferry between Kinmen and [[Quanzhou]] with 3 departures per day. A twice-daily ferry links [[Matsu]] with [[Fuzhou]], with journey time about 2 hours. From the Taiwanese main island, there are weekly departures from [[Taichung]] and [[Keelung]] aboard the Cosco Star to [[Xiamen]] and [[Taizhou (Zhejiang)|Damaiyu, Taizhou]]. * '''Thailand''': Golden Peacock Shipping company runs a speedboat three times a week on the Mekong river to [[Jinghong]] in [[Yunnan]] from [[Chiang Saen]] (Thailand). Passengers are not required to have visas for Laos or Myanmar, although the greater part of the trip is on the river bordering these countries. Tickets cost ¥650. * '''Cruise ship''': In the fall, several cruise lines move their ships from [[Alaska]] to [[Asia]] and good connections can generally be found leaving from [[Anchorage]], [[Vancouver]], or [[Seattle]]. ==Get around== {{infobox|Tibet Entry Permit|Foreigners and Taiwanese travellers who wish to visit Tibet must obtain a Tibet Entry Permit before their trip, and these are generally only issued for guided tours. The only way to experience Tibetan culture without joining a guided tour is to explore the Tibetan regions of [[Qinghai]], [[Sichuan]], [[Yunnan]] and [[Gansu]].}} Google Maps ''does not work'' in China, and tends to have patchy coverage and data quality even if accessed via VPN. Moreover, China uses its own coordinate system for security reasons, which sometimes causes problems when using foreign map apps. The most common direction-finding app used by the Chinese themselves is '''[https://map.baidu.com/ Baidu Maps]''', though it is only available in Chinese. '''[http://ditu.amap.com/ Amap]''' is effectively the Citymapper for the whole of China and is available in English on Apple devices. It lists all public transport and suggested car routes even in seemingly rural places. '''Apple Maps''' uses Amap’s data and is reliable, though it lacks certain features that the others offer. Alternative methods include other map apps based on OpenStreetMap data or renting a local GPS. More information at [[GPS navigation]]. '''Names of long streets''' are often given a middle word indicating the part of the street: north (北 ''běi''), south (南 ''nán''), east (东 ''dōng''), west (西 ''xī''), or central (中 ''zhōng''). For example, White Horse Street or ''Báimǎ Lù'' (白马路) may be split up into ''Báimǎ Běilù'' (白马北路 "White Horse North Street"), ''Báimǎ Nánlù'' (白马南路 "White Horse South Street"), and ''Báimǎ Zhōnglù'' (白马中路 "White Horse Central Street"). In some cities, however, these names do not indicate parts of one street. In [[Xiamen]], ''Hubin Bei Lu'' and ''Hubin Nan Lu'' (Lakeside Road North and Lakeside Road South) are parallel, running east-west on the north and south sides of the lake. In [[Nanjing]], ''Zhongshan Lu'', ''Zhongshan Bei Lu'' and ''Zhongshan Dong Lu'' are three separate major roads. ===By plane=== [[File:Beijing Daxing International Airport 13.jpg|thumb|Finished in 2019, [[Beijing Daxing International Airport]] is one of the new-generation airports built in China]] China is a huge country, so unless you're planning to visit only the eastern seaboard, definitely consider domestic flights. Flying is particularly useful for getting to or around western China due to the sparse population and more limited high-speed rail network. Airlines include the three state-owned international carriers: Air China, China Southern, and China Eastern, as well as regional ones including Hainan Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Sichuan Airlines and Shanghai Airlines. Flights between Hong Kong or Macau and mainland Chinese cities are considered to be international flights and can be quite expensive. Hence if arriving in, or departing from, Hong Kong or Macau, it is usually '''much''' cheaper to fly to or from Shenzhen or Zhuhai, just across the border, or Guangzhou, which is a little further afield but offers flights to more destinations. Prices for domestic flights are set at standard rates, but discounts are common, especially on the busier routes. Most good hotels, and many hostels, will have a travel ticket service and may be able to save you 15-70% off the price of tickets. Travel agencies and booking offices are plentiful in all Chinese cities and offer similar discounts. Even before considering discounts, traveling by aircraft in China is not expensive. For travel within China, it is usually best to buy tickets in China, or on Chinese websites (these often have English versions). A useful app/website is [http://english.ctrip.com/?curr=CNY&language=EN&iburedirect=1 CTrip], which is the only way you can use an international credit/debit card on the fly to buy train/plane tickets. If you buy your ticket from a Chinese vendor they will contact you to let you know about changes to your flight. If you purchased your ticket overseas, be certain to check on the flight status a day or two before you plan to fly. On Chinese websites, prices tend to remain high until two months before the flight date, at which point large discounts are usually available unless a particular flight has been heavily booked already. Unexplained flight delays are common, in part because of the tight military control of the airspace. For short-distance travel, you may want to consider alternatives like [[Rail travel in China#High-speed rail|high-speed rail]]. Flight cancellations are also not uncommon. If you buy your ticket from a Chinese vendor they will likely try to contact you (if you left contact information) to let you know about the change in flight plan. If you purchased your ticket overseas, check on the flight status a day or two before you plan to fly. The safety record of Chinese aviation is now superb. They did not have a major fatal accident from 2010 to 2022 and Chinese regulatory authorities are very no-nonsense when it comes to safety violations by crews or maintenance problems. Also be sure not to lose your checked baggage receipts, as they will be checked against your baggage tags before you are allowed to leave the baggage claim hall. ===By train=== : {{See also|Rail travel in China}} [[File:A maglev train coming out, Pudong International Airport, Shanghai.jpg|thumb|300px|Maglev train in [[Shanghai]]]] [[File:Rail map of PRC.svg|thumb|500px|Rail map of China]] Train travel is the main method of long-distance transportation for the Chinese, with an extensive network of routes covering most of the country. Roughly a quarter of the world's total rail traffic is in China. '''China Railway High-speed (CRH)''' is the world's longest network of [[high-speed rail]]ways, and offers the world's only high-speed [[sleeper trains]]. If your route and budget allow, they are often the best way to get around. CRH trains are top-notch, even internationally, in terms of equipment and cleanliness. On most higher-level trains, recorded announcements are made in Chinese and English. Local trains do not have announcements in English. Be careful with your valuables while on the train as theft on public transportation is a problem. Motion sickness pills and ear plugs are recommended. Long distance trains have a buffet or dining car, which serves mediocre hot food at around ¥25. The menu is entirely in Chinese. Some stations allow you to order food from one of their restaurants through an app in advance, which will be delivered to your seat when your train makes a stop there. Most train cars have a hot boiled water dispenser available so you can bring tea, soups and instant noodles. Smoking is not permitted in the seating or sleeping areas but is allowed in the vestibules at the end of each car on ordinary trains, while on high-speed trains, it is completely banned. Smoking is forbidden inside station buildings apart from in designated smoking rooms or platforms. See [[Rail travel in China]] for information on buying tickets. Paper tickets are no longer issued for domestic trains; all tickets are electronic and tied to your ID, which will be checked both on departure and arrival. Chinese train stations function like airports, so do not count on catching a train at the last minute: gates close a few minutes prior to departure! To be safe, be there at least 20 minutes early, or 30 minutes if you are entering a big train station. Make sure you're waiting in the right place, because often the train will only stop for a couple of minutes. Chinese trains are generally punctual and follow the posted timetable to a T; if you are late by even a single minute, you ''will'' miss the train. Many cities have different stations for ordinary and high-speed trains. High-speed railway station and new station names usually consist of the city name and the cardinal direction (e.g. ''Héngyángdōng'', "Hengyang East") or the district it serves (e.g. ''Běijīng Fēngtái'', "Beijing Fengtai"). ===By bus=== Traveling by public '''city buses''' (公共汽车 ''gōnggòngqìchē'') or long-distance buses (长途汽车 ''chángtúqìchē'') is inexpensive and ideal for in-city and short-distance transportation. City buses vary from city to city. However, if you can understand the bus routes then they are cheap and go almost everywhere. Buses will normally have recorded announcements telling you the next stop - examples of which might include 'xià yí zhàn - zhōng shān lù' (next stop Zhongshan Road) or 'Shànghǎi nán huǒ chē zhàn dào le' (Shanghai South railway station - now arriving). Some major cities such as Beijing or Hangzhou will have English announcements, at least on some major routes. Fares are usually about ¥1-3 or more if traveling into the suburbs. Most buses simply have a metal cash-box next to the entrance where you can insert your fare (no change - save up those ¥1 coins) or on longer routes a conductor that will collect fares and issue tickets and change. The driver usually prioritizes speed over comfort, so hold on tight. [[File:Meng H27360 at Liuliqiao Coach Station (20210624120340).jpg|thumb|A long-distance bus from [[Beijing]] to [[Xilinhot]]]] Coaches, or '''long-distance buses''', may be more practical than trains for going to suburbs or smaller cities, though they are fiercely competed and often outperformed by trains. Coaches originating from larger cities on the east coast tend to be air conditioned with soft seats. Bus personnel tend to try to be helpful, but they are much less familiar with foreigners than airline personnel. [[File:Xiaoxi - Bus no. 2 - DSCF4163.JPG|thumb|Local buses in Pinghe County, [[Fujian]], connect the county seat with rural towns]] A coach or bus in rural China is a different experience. Signs in the station to identify buses will be in Chinese. The coach's license plate number is printed on the ticket, it will be spray-painted on the back of the bus. Scheduled times of departure and arrival are only rough estimates, with the bus leaving when it's full, rather than at a scheduled time. Often, rural coaches are the only forms of transportation in many areas of China and are usually more than willing to stop anywhere along the route should you wish to visit more remote areas without direct transport. Buses can also be flagged down at most points along their route. For expressway buses, you may need to contact the operator in advance, which could let you to board/alight at toll gates. The ticket price the rest of the way is negotiable. [[File:Qujiang - highway bus stop - DSCF3093.JPG|thumb|A highway bus stop in [[Qujiang]], Nanjing County, [[Fujian]]. The sign lists departure times for buses to [[Xiamen]]]] Getting a ticket is straightforward. Large bus stations have ticket counters who sell printed tickets displaying the departure time, boarding gate and license plate number of your bus. You need your passport to purchase a ticket, and often you will have to go through security inspection. Within cities of China, you can now get around China using public transport by paying using '''China T-union''', which is a contactless transport card used in China. Holders of the card can use it to pay public transport fares in any covered service in China, including [[Beijing]], [[Tianjin]], [[Hebei]], and [[Shanghai]]. China T-union tickets are '''not''' valid in [[Hong Kong]], [[Macau]] or [[Taiwan]]. ===By subway=== Most major cities in China now have subway/metro (地铁 ''dìtiě'') systems. They are typically modern, clean, efficient, and are still rapidly expanding. Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu and Shenzhen already have some of the world's most extensive systems. On station platforms and in trains there is usually signage in Chinese and English listing all stations on that line. Announcements in the stations and trains are made in Mandarin and English, and sometimes the local language. Many maps (especially English versions) may not have kept up with rapid expansion. Look online for a bilingual subway map that you can carry with you. Chinese subway stations often have a security checkpoint before the turnstiles, where you must run your bags through an X-ray scanner. Pickpockets are most likely to strike during station stops, so pay attention to your belongings. Stations tend to have numerous exits with labels such as Exit A, B, C1, or C2. On maps you will find each exit is labeled clearly around the station. Signs in the station make it easy to find your exit. In many cities, subways and city buses are moving away from transit cards and towards a WeChat/Alipay-based payment system: a city's transit system will have its own "mini-app" within WeChat and Alipay, which you use to scan a QR code to pay your fare. If it works for you, this may be the easiest way to pay for subway rides and local buses for a short term stay. === By taxi === Taxis (出租车 ''chūzūchē'' or 的士 ''dīshì'', pronounced "deg-see" in Cantonese-speaking areas) are reasonably priced: flagfall ¥5-14, per km charge ¥2-3. Most trips within the city center will cost ¥10-50. There is no extra charge for luggage, but in many cities rates are higher at night. The taxi fee is usually rounded up to the nearest whole yuan. Tips are not expected, but are welcome, especially after long trips. Taxis are commonly ordered through phone apps, and it has become harder to hail a taxi on the street due to competition from ride-hailing services. The most popular ride-hailing app, [http://www.didichuxing.com/en/com/en/ Didi Chuxing], is also available in English. Unofficial taxi hawkers stalk naive travelers at airport terminals, train stations, and border crossings. They will try to negotiate a set price, and will usually charge 2 to 3 times a metered fare. Avoid them and look for the official taxi stand instead. Finding a taxi during peak hours can be a bit hard. But it really gets tough if it is raining. Away from peak hours, especially at night, it is sometimes possible to get a 10% to 20% discount especially if you negotiate it in advance, even if with the meter on and asking for a receipt. Sitting in the front passenger seat is acceptable, and is useful if you have trouble communicating in Chinese. Some taxis mount the taxi meter down by the gearbox, where you can only see it from the front seat. You also have a good chance of getting a functioning seat belt there; seat belts in the back are usually disabled. Even though it is illegal, drivers may start smoking without asking. In some cities it is also common for drivers to try and pick up multiple passengers if their destinations are in the same general direction. Each passenger pays full fare but it saves the time of waiting for an empty cab at rush hour. Even in major cities, you are very unlikely to find an English-speaking taxi driver. If you are not able to pronounce [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] well, have your destination written ''in Chinese characters'' to show the driver. Business cards for your hotel and for restaurants are useful for this. In major cities in the southern and eastern coastal provinces, many taxi drivers speak Mandarin but not the local dialect. Most drivers are honest and fares are reasonable but there are the bad ones out there who will try to use your lack of Chinese skills to their advantage. The fare difference will usually be minimal. Should you feel you have been seriously cheated on the way to your hotel, and it has a doorman, you can appeal to him or the desk staff for assistance. In cities, photographing the driver's ID (posted on the dashboard) or license plate number and threatening to report him to the authorities can be quite effective. In some cities, taxi companies use a star-rating system for drivers, ranging from 0 to 5, displayed on the driver's name-plate, on the dashboard in front of the passenger seat. While no or few stars do not necessarily indicate a bad driver, many stars tend to indicate good knowledge of the city, and willingness to take you to where you ask by the shortest way. Another indicator of the driver's ability can be found on the same name-plate: the driver's ID number. A small number tells you he has been around for a long time, and is thus likely to know the city better. Use the bigger taxi companies when possible, as the smaller companies tend to have more dishonest drivers. Chinese are sometimes competitive when it comes to finding a taxi. The person who flags down a particular car is not necessarily entitled to that ride. Having locals move farther up in traffic to intercept cars or being shoved out of the way while trying to enter a taxi is common. If there are others in the area competing for rides, be ready to reach your car and enter it as soon as possible after flagging it down. Wear your seat belt at all times (if you can find it). Some taxi drivers, in particular those who can speak some English, can be quite curious and talkative, especially during peak-hour traffic (高峰 ''gāo​fēng''). ===By bicycle=== [[File:Mobikes_in_Huangzhou,_Huanggang,_Hubei,_China_3.jpg|thumb|A row of Mobike dockless bikes]] {{main|Cycling in China}} Bicycles (自行车 ''zìxíngchē'') were once the most common form of transportation in China, but were largely seen as a symbol of poverty and abandoned in favor of motor vehicles. However, as of the 2020s, cycling as a hobby is growing in popularity among young middle class Chinese, and numerous cities have dedicated bicycle tracks to cater to that demographic. '''Dockless rideshare bikes''' in China's larger cities operate on a grab'n'go basis: you use your mobile phone to unlock any available bike, pay ¥1-2 per 30 minutes while using them, and drop them off pretty much anywhere you like. Dockless bikes are built to last, meaning they're heavy, clunky and ungeared, but for travelers, they can be a cheap, convenient, and pleasant means of transport. There are two major '''dangers for cyclists''' in China: * '''Motor traffic'''; cars and motorcycles frequently pull out without any warning, and in many areas give way signs and red lights are frequently ignored, especially by motorcycles and electric mopeds. Cars are also allowed to turn right on red in China. * '''Bicycle theft is rampant''' throughout cities in China, though the situation has improved somewhat with the widespread installation of CCTVs. China is a vast country and it provides serious cyclists with challenges to bike across mountains and desert. Bicycles are prohibited from expressways but otherwise, you can cycle on most rural roads. Cycling through [[Tibet]] is possible but foreigners will need to book a biking tour through a local travel agency. ===By car=== {{main|Driving in China}} Chinese trunk roads are generally of good quality, though the quality of rural minor roads varies drastically between regions. Generally speaking, the quality of roads is best in the coastal provinces, and declines the further west you go. The PRC generally does not recognize International Driving Permits and does not permit foreigners to drive in China without a Chinese license. Hong Kong and Macau licenses are also considered to be foreign and having one of them will not allow you to drive in the mainland. Importing foreign vehicles is difficult. There are some ways of getting a temporary license: see the Driving in China article. Renting a car is virtually unheard of in major Chinese cities, which generally have excellent public transportation networks that get you almost anywhere. There are, however, some rural parts of China that are still best explored by car. However, driving habits are quite different from what Westerners might be used to back home. Rental cars most often come with a driver and this is probably the best way to travel in China by car. ===By motorcycle=== {{seealso|Driving in China#Motorcycles}} Motorcycle taxis are common, especially in smaller cities and rural areas. They are usually cheap and effective but scary. The fares are negotiable. Regulations for riding a motorcycle vary from city to city. In some cases, 50cc mopeds can be ridden without a driving license although many cities have now banned them or reclassified them due to numerous accidents. Riding a 'proper' motorcycle is much harder, partly because you'll need a Chinese license, partly because they are banned in many cities and partly because production and importing have slowed with the focus on automobiles and electric scooters. The typical Chinese motorcycle is 125cc, can do about 100&nbsp;km/h and is a traditional cruiser style. They are generally slow, mundane to ride and have little sporting potential. Government restrictions on engine size mean that sports bikes are rare but can still be found. Another popular choice is a 125cc automatic 'maxi' scooter based loosely on the Honda CN250 - it's a bit quicker than a moped and more comfortable over long distances but has the benefit of automatic transmission which makes negotiating stop-start urban traffic much easier. Most cities will have a motorcycle market of some description and will often sell you a cheap motorcycle often with fake or illegal license plates, although a foreigner on a motorbike is a rare sight and it will grab the police's attention. Helmets are essential on 'proper' bikes but optional on scooters. You must have a license plate: they are yellow or blue on a motorcycle or green on a scooter and can cost several thousand yuan to register the bike yourself. Fake plates are easily available at a lower price, but are risky. ===By pedicab (rickshaw)=== {{infobox|What's in a name?|The terms pedicab and rickshaw are often used interchangeably by foreigners in China, but refer to two different modes of transportation - one of which no longer exists. The infamous rickshaw was a two-wheeled contraption with two poles at the front, which the operator held while walking or running passengers to their destinations. These proliferated in the late 19th century but were gradually phased out by the 1950s. Videos of Western elites playing polo on rickshaws propelled by Chinese workers showcased the exploitative nature of rickshaws. A distant relative of the rickshaw can still be seen when day-laborers in smaller or less developed cities gather with their rickshaw-like carts each morning waiting for work delivering construction materials, coal, or other odds and ends. The rickshaw has been replaced by the pedicab: a three-wheeled conveyance ridden much like a bicycle.}} In some mid-sized cities, pedicabs are a much more convenient means of traveling short distances. Sānlúnchē (三轮车), the Chinese term used both for pedal-powered and motorized rickshaws, are ubiquitous in rural China and lesser developed (which is to say, less touristy) areas of larger cities. Negotiating the fare in advance is a must. Reports of overcharging probably refer to rip-off artists working tourist destinations, like Silk Alley, Wangfujing, and the Lao She Tea House in Beijing in particular. Perhaps the rule of thumb should be, "Beware of anyone selling anything near tourist traps." If you see normal Chinese families using the "sanlun" — for instance, traveling between the Beijing Zoo and the nearest subway stop — then it's safe. Don't patronise any sanlun wearing some old fashioned costume to attract tourists. He'll try to charge you ten times the going rate. Electrified three-wheeled sanluns developed or converted from the pedicabs seem to be in the majority in Shanghai. ==See== China's attractions are endless and you will never run out of things to see. Especially near the coastal areas, when finished with one city, the next one is usually just a short train ride away. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover or someone who just wants to relax on a nice beach, China has it all from the majestic Forbidden City in [[Beijing]], to the breathtaking scenery of [[Jiuzhaigou]]. Even if you live in China for many years, you'll find that there's always something new to discover in another part of the country. Perhaps unsurprisingly due to its sheer size and long history, China has the third largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, after Italy and Spain. China is on the border between two bioregions. [[Eurasian wildlife]] can be seen in the north and west, and [[South Asian wildlife]] can be found in the south and southeast. Make sure you '''carry your ID''' around with you in China, as you will need it to purchase tickets and enter tourist attractions. This is typically your Home Return Permit for Hong Kong and Macau residents, Taiwan Compatriot Pass for Taiwanese citizens, or passport for most foreigners. Tickets for some popular attractions like the Forbidden City in Beijing or the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum in Nanjing ''must'' be reserved online '''in advance'''. Tickets are tied to your ID in order to prevent scalping, so make sure the ID you present at the entrance matches the one you purchased your ticket with. [[Image:Diecaishan.jpg|thumb|Karst formations, Guilin]] ===Karst scenery=== The gumdrop mountains and steeply sloping forested hills with incredible rock formations favored by traditional Chinese artists are not creative fantasy. In fact, much of southern and southwestern China is covered in intricate eroded rock formations known as '''karst'''. Karst is a type of limestone formation named after an area in [[Slovenia]]. As limestone layers erode, the denser rock or pockets of different stone resist erosion forming peaks. Caves hollow out beneath the mountains which can collapse forming sinkholes and channels leading to underground rivers. At its most unusual karst erodes to form mazes of pinnacles, arches and passageways. The most famous example can be found in the Stone Forest (石林 ''[[Shilin|Shílín]]'') near [[Kunming]] in [[Yunnan]]. Some of the most famous tourist areas in China feature spectacular karst landscapes &mdash; [[Guilin]] and [[Yangshuo]] in [[Guangxi]], [[Zhangjiajie]] in [[Hunan]], and much of central and western [[Guizhou]] province. ===Sacred mountains=== {{See also|Sacred sites of China}} {{infobox|Chinese mountains|Linell Davis, who literally wrote the book on practical cultural differences between China and the West, has this to say about Chinese mountains: "Westerners find Chinese mountains confusing as they do not provide an experience of wild untamed nature. They expect mountains to be natural rather than paved with steps from bottom to top. They don't expect to see very old people and very young children climbing mountains. I have also noticed that each local area in China has a 'mountain' even if it is quite small and even if people had to build it themselves. After a few experiences of finding there was nothing to see from the top or that the view was lost in clouds and mist ([[Emeishan National Park|Emei]] and [[Huangshan]], for instance), I started trying to figure out what people are really doing when they are climbing mountains. My conclusion is that in China people climb mountains because the experience of doing it is enjoyable. I think they also do it to experience the mountain by moving into it and up and down it. In climbing the mountain they realize their connection with nature rather than their power over it." –Linell Davis, ''Doing Culture''}} Mountains are an important part of Chinese geomancy, and there are many mountains which have religious significance in Chinese Buddhism and Taoism. These mountains often serve as a popular backdrop in Chinese period dramas, and have traditionally been associated with various Chinese martial arts sects. Today, these mountains continue to house many Taoist and Buddhist temples, and continue to serve as scenic backdrops that attract many domestic tourists. ====Five Great Mountains==== The '''Five Great Mountains''' (五岳) are associated with the five cardinal directions in Chinese geomancy, and are believed to have originated from the body of Pangu (盘古), the creator of the world in Chinese mythology. *'''[[Mount Heng (Shanxi)|Mount Heng]]''' (恒山), the Northern Mountain (北岳) in [[Shanxi]] province. Literally the "eternal mountain". *'''[[Mount Heng (Hunan)|Mount Heng]]''' (衡山), the Southern Mountain (南岳) in [[Hunan]] province. Literally the "balancing mountain". *'''[[Mount Tai]]''' (泰山), the Eastern Mountain (东岳), in [[Shandong]] province. Literally the "peaceful mountain". *'''[[Huashan National Park|Mount Hua]]''' (华山), the Western Mountain (西岳) in [[Shaanxi]] province. Literally the "splendid mountain". *'''[[Songshan National Park|Mount Song]]''' (嵩山), the Central Mountain (中岳) in [[Henan]] province. Also home to the famed '''Shaolin Monastery''' (少林寺), historically famous for its warrior monks. Literally the "lofty mountain". ====Four Sacred Mountains of Buddhism==== [[File:Wutai Shan temple grounds.jpg|thumb|Temples at Mt Wutai]] The '''Four Sacred Mountains of Buddhism''' (四大佛教名山) are traditionally associated with four different Bodhisattvas, who are revered in Chinese Buddhism. To this day, these mountains continue to be scenic spots with prominent Buddhist temples. *'''[[Mount Wutai]]''' (五台山), traditionally associated with Bodhisattva Manjusri (文殊菩萨), in [[Shanxi]] province. *'''[[Mount Emei]]''' (峨眉山), traditionally associated with Bodhisattva Samantabhadra (普贤菩萨), in [[Sichuan]] province. *'''[[Mount Putuo]]''' (普陀山), traditionally associated with Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara (观音菩萨), the most popular Bodhisattva in Chinese Buddhism, in [[Zhejiang]] province. It isn't a mountain, but rather an island off the Chinese coast. *'''[[Mount Jiuhua]]''' (九华山), traditionally associated with Bodhisattva Ksitigarbha (地藏菩萨), in [[Anhui]] province. ====Four Sacred Mountains of Taoism==== Although there are many sacred mountains in Chinese folk religion, the '''Four Sacred Mountains of Taoism''' (四大道教名山), together with the Five Great Mountains are considered to be the holiest among them. These continue to be scenic spots that feature prominent Taoist temples. *'''[[Mount Wudang]]''' (武当山), regarded by most Chinese to be the holiest of all sacred mountains for Taoists, in [[Hubei]] province. Traditionally regarded to be a major center of Chinese martial arts, and the main rival to the Shaolin Monastery (albeit a friendly one). *'''[[Mount Longhu]]''' (龙虎山) located 20 kilometers southwest of Yingtan City, in [[Jiangxi]] province. Longhu is China's eighth World Natural Heritage Site, World Geopark, National Natural and Cultural Dual Heritage Site, National AAAAA Grade Tourist Attraction and National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit. Longhu Mountain is a typical Danxia landscape and a birthplace of Chinese Taoism in China, and joined the world geopark network in 2007. *'''[[Mount Qiyun]]''' (齐云山) in [[Anhui]] province. *'''[[Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan_National_Park|Mount Qingcheng]]''' (青城山) in [[Sichuan]] province. ===Flowers=== [[File:Pink peach tree in blossom in Mount Langya in Hebei, picture2.jpg|thumb|Peach blossoms in a Chinese park]] While Japan's cherry blossoms may be better known, China's '''plum blossoms''' (梅花 ''méi huā'') and '''peach blossoms''' (桃花 ''táo huā'') are often considered to rival the cherry blossoms in sheer beauty. Plums tend to flower during the coldest part of winter, often during heavy snowfall, making them a symbol of resilience, and is the national flower of the Republic of China that once ruled Mainland China. Peaches, on the other hand, tend to flower in the spring. These trees can be viewed in many parks, particularly in the northern and eastern parts if China, but also at higher elevations in the south. Both flowers are highly revered in traditional Chinese culture, and are frequently featured in traditional Chinese arts and crafts. The '''peony''' (牡丹花 ''mǔ dān huā'') is also highly revered, and represents honor and wealth. Unlike the plum and peach blossoms, peonies grow on shrubs rather than trees. They typically flower in late spring to early summer. ===Other sites=== Sites of the Chinese revolution can be seen in our [[Chinese Revolutionary Destinations]] article. Significant Buddhist sites in China can be found in our [[Buddhism#See|Buddhism]] article. ===Itineraries=== Some itineraries cover trips that are entirely within China: * [[Along the Yangtze River]] * [[Along the Yellow River]] * [[Along the Grand Canal]] * [[Around Erhai Lake by electric scooter]] * [[Hong Kong to Kunming overland]] * [[Long March]] * [[Overland to Tibet]] * [[Qinghai–Tibet railway]] * [[Yunnan tourist trail]] Others are partly in China: * [[Silk Road]] - ancient caravan route from China to Europe * [[Karakoram Highway]] - Western China to Pakistan through the Himalayas * [[On the trail of Marco Polo]] ==Do== ===Massage=== High-quality, reasonably priced massages are available throughout China. A hairdresser will often give a head massage, clean out ear wax, and massage the neck and arms. The availability of foot massage (足疗 ''zúliáo'') is often indicated by a picture of a bare footprint on the sign. A full-body massage is offered in two varieties: ''ànmó'' (按摩) is general massage; ''tuīná'' (推拿) concentrates on the meridians used in acupuncture. These three types of massage are often mixed; many places offer all three. Massage is a traditional trade for the blind, and the best value is often at tiny out-of-the-way places with blind staff (盲人按摩 ''mángrén ànmó''). The most expert massages are in massage hospitals or general Chinese medicine hospitals. Some massage places are actually brothels. Prostitution is illegal in China but quite common and often disguised as massage. Most hot spring or sauna establishments offer ''all'' the services a businessman might want for relaxation. Many hotels offer massage in your room, and additional services are almost always available once she is in the room. Pink lighting or lots of girls in short skirts in smaller establishments probably indicates considerably more than just massage is on offer (''and quite often they cannot do a good massage either''). The same rule applies in many hair salons which double as massage parlors/brothels. The non-pink-lit places usually give good massages and generally do not offer sex. If the establishment advertises massage by the blind, it is almost certainly legitimate. For basic phrases to use when getting a massage, see [[Chinese phrasebook#Getting a massage]]. ====Spas==== '''[[Spas]]''' in China tend to be elaborate affairs, often spanning multiple floors, and are similar to [[South Korea]]'s ''jjimjilbang''. The admission fee gives you access to amenities such as showers, heated indoor pools, saunas, a complimentary buffet of drinks and fresh fruit, and a communal sleeping area. When entering one, you will be expected to take a shower and change into robes provided by the establishment. Sex-segregated pools may require bathers to be nude, though co-ed ones will require a bathing suit. Some may also have game arcades and/or indoor playgrounds to keep the kids entertained. Some may have a dining area where hot food is served during mealtimes, which will typically cost extra. Spas will almost invariably offer a variety of body scrubbing and/or massage services, which will incur an additional cost on top of the admission fee. Public bathhouses (澡堂 ''zǎotáng'') are a local tradition in the [[Northeast China|Northeast]]. While traditional facilities are usually very utilitarian and primary patronized by the elderly, modern facilities that younger people prefer are essentially spas in all but name, with all the amenities you would expect from a spa. Northeastern Chinese-style public bathhouses, whether traditional or modern, will always offer a body scrub (搓澡 ''cuōzǎo'') service among their amenities. ===Performing arts=== {{main|Chinese performing arts}} As a large and diverse country, China is home to a wide array of performing arts, both traditional and modern. While some genres are popular nationwide, there are also some which are only popular in specific regions, and the various ethnic minorities also have their own unique traditions. Two genres that are popular nationwide, and are also regularly performed internationally are '''Beijing opera''' (京剧 ''jīngjù'') and ''' Yue opera''' (越剧 ''yuèjù''). China's '''pop culture''' scene has exploded since the 2010s, and today has far eclipsed that of traditional centres Hong Kong and Taiwan. Chinese pop music, films and dramas are big-money businesses that command a loyal following locally and among ethnic Chinese communities in Southeast Asia, and most of the top Hong Kong and Taiwanese singers and actors have relocated to mainland China where they can make a lot more money. Talent shows are very popular in China and often feature aspiring young singers being mentored by a veteran superstar. ===Traditional arts=== When planning an extended stay in China, consider learning some of the traditional arts. Traveling to China is after all a unique chance to learn the basics, or refine already acquired skills, directly from master practitioners in the arts' home country. Many cities have academies that accept beginners, and not knowing Chinese is usually not a problem as you can learn by example and imitation. Calligraphy (书法 ''shūfǎ''), a term that covers both writing characters and painting scrolls (that is, classical landscapes and the like) remains a popular national hobby. Many calligraphers practice by writing with water on sidewalks in city parks. Other traditional arts which offer classes include learning to play traditional Chinese instruments (inquire in shops that sell these as many offer classes), cooking Chinese cuisine, or even singing Beijing Opera (京剧 ''jīngjù''). Fees are usually modest, and the necessary materials will not exactly break the bank. The only requirement is being in the same place for a long enough time, and showing sufficient respect; it is better not to join these classes as a tourist attraction. ===[[Martial arts]]=== As with traditional cultural arts, those with the time and inclination may be interested in studying China's famed martial arts. Some, such as '''tai chi''' (太极拳 ''tàijíquán''), can be studied at a basic level by simply visiting any city park in the early morning and following along. You will likely find many eager teachers. However, learning martial arts to a level that allows you to use them competently in an actual fight requires years of study and training under a master, which often has to start from childhood. In English, Chinese martial arts are often called "kung fu" and we follow that usage below. However in Chinese, the general term for martial arts is ''wǔshù'' (武術), while ''gōngfu'' (功夫, "kung fu") is the term for the skill or power that practitioners acquire. Chinese martial arts are traditionally classified into northern and southern styles, with northern styles generally known for emphasizing powerful strikes with fully extended limbs, and southern styles generally known for fast strikes close to the body. Northern Chinese martial are further classified into two groups named for two mountain areas with monasteries which are centers of kung fu &mdash; Shaolin Temple on [[Songshan National Park|Mount Song]] and the [[Wudang Mountains]]. Shaolin are the hard or external styles emphasizing speed and power, while Wudang are the soft or internal styles emphasizing breath control and smooth movement. Of course it is nowhere near that simple; Shaolin experts also move extremely smoothly and a Wudang master has plenty of speed and power. Other well-known centers of kung fu include Southern Shaolin in [[Quanzhou#Learn|Quanzhou]], [[Fujian]], Wu Wei Temple near [[Dali]] and Wing Chun (Bruce Lee's style) in [[Foshan]], [[Guangdong]]. Shanghai has a [[Shanghai/Yangpu#See|martial arts museum]] at a Physical Education university. ===Square dancing=== [[File:Older women practicing dance at Temple of Heaven Park, Beijing.jpg|thumb|right|Square dancers at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing]] In public parks, squares or plazas, or indeed anywhere in a city that isn't fenced off and is large enough (like a parking lot), you will increasingly find, in the early morning and late evening, groups of (mostly) older women doing what looks like low-impact aerobics to music with a dance beat coming from a nearby portable speaker. This activity is called ''guǎngchǎngwǔ'' (广场舞), roughly translated into English as "square dancing", because of where it takes place (not to be confused with the traditional American folk dance of the same name). It originated in the mid-1990s among women (known as ''dàmā'' (大妈), or "dancing grannies" in English) who had just been forced into retirement as a way to stay fit, socialize and recall their own youth during the Cultural Revolution (indeed, many of the songs used are propaganda from that era, or current Chinese pop hits). By 2015 noise and space issues had provoked violent confrontations in some cities and led the government to introduce, then hastily withdraw, standard dance routines. It's interesting to watch at the very least as a modern folk phenomenon, and indeed some groups don costumes and props for their routines. Some tourists, particularly Russians visiting Manchurian cities, have joined in. However, this is often frowned upon, as many square dancers compete competitively and are only practicing publicly due to a lack of practice space otherwise. If you are tempted to do so, only join groups that appear to be casually-oriented (no apparent dance uniform or complicated routines) and go to the rear row where beginners follow the leader and learn the moves. You should avoid, or at least practice extreme caution when joining near several groups in a space barely enough for all of them — turf battles have been known to start and given the novelty of a foreigner participating in square dancing, you may be seen as a final provocation of member poaching. [[Social dancing|Ballroom dancing]] is also moderately common; Western-style square dancing or line dancing are less common but not unknown. ===Traditional pastimes=== China has several traditional games often played in tea gardens, public parks, or even on the street. Players often attract crowds of on-lookers. * '''[[Xiangqi|Chinese chess]]''' (象棋 ''xiàngqí'') is the world's most-played chess variant. It is similar to but distinct from Korean chess (Korean: 장기 ''janggi''), but quite different from [[Shogi|Japanese chess]] (Japanese: 将棋 ''shōgi'') and [[Chess|international chess]], though they all have enough in common that a good player of one will find another easier to learn. It is a very popular pastime in China, and you can often see elderly Chinese having games with each other in the parks. There are also numerous national tournaments, from school tournaments all the way up to professional ones, and the top players often become major celebrities, with large prizes and numerous TV shows about the game. * '''[[Go]]''' (围棋 ''wéiqí'', lit. "the surrounding game") is a strategy board game. Players place their stones to surround the most territory on the board. While the rules are simple, the strategy and tactics are very complex. There are professional Go players, some of whom are major celebrities, tournaments with large prizes, and some TV shows about the game. * '''Mahjong''' (麻将 ''májiàng'') is popular and almost always played for money. Mahjong uses tiles with a variety of Chinese symbols and characters. Players draw and discard tiles trying to complete a hand with particular sets of tiles. The nearest Western equivalent (not very near!) would be card games like rummy or canasta. : While gameplay is broadly similar, the rules of mahjong in China differ significantly between regions, and from the Taiwanese and Japanese versions. The mahjong played in Hong Kong is Cantonese mahjong, which is the same as that in the [[Pearl River Delta]] of [[Guangdong]] province. The Chinese government has an officially-sanctioned standardized form of mahjong that is used in national and international competitions in an attempt to be fair to people who grew up playing with different rules, though this version is rarely played outside official competitions. ===Sports=== The '''National Games of China''' (全国运动会) is a multi-sport event between China's provincial-level units, including Hong Kong and Macau. In addition to the provincial teams, there are also teams representing the Chinese military and various Chinese industry groups. Here you can see some of China's best sportspeople in action, including Olympic gold medallists, as they vie for provincial glory. It is held every four years, in the year after the Summer Olympics, and features all Olympic sports plus wushu. The next National Games will be held from 9-21 November 2025, and will be co-hosted by [[Guangdong]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Chinese Yuan | currencyCode=¥ | date=July 2025 | AUD=4.7 | CAD=5.3 | EUR=8.4 | GBP=9.8 | HKD=0.9 | JPY=4.9 | THB=2.2 | USD=7.2 | KRW=5.3 | TWD=2.5 | SGD=5.6 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/cny-chinese-yuan-renminbi XE.com]}}The official currency of the People's Republic of China is the '''Chinese yuan''', known as the '''renminbi''' (人民币 ''rénmínbì'', "People's Money"), denoted by the symbol '''¥''', international currency code '''CNY'''. All prices in China are given in yuan; the Chinese character is 元 (''yuán''), or in financial contexts (e.g. cheques and banknotes) 圆. A price may be shown as, for example, 20 元, 20 rmb, RMB 20, 20 yuan or ¥20; we use the latter form here. In informal spoken Chinese and sometimes in spoken English, 块 (''kuài'') may be used instead, much as "buck" can be used in the U.S. or "quid" in the UK. Some Chinese software will display a bigger "full width" character (￥) to differentiate it from the Japanese yen, which uses the same symbol. The Chinese yuan is ''not'' legal tender in the Special Administrative Regions of [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], which issue their own currencies. However many businesses will also accept Chinese currency, albeit at an unfavorable exchange rate. {{infobox|Cheat Sheet|* 10 ''jiǎo'' is 1 ''yuán'' (&#20803;), the base unit * ''yuán'' is commonly called ''kuài'' (&#22359;) * ''jiǎo'' is commonly called ''máo'' (&#27611;) * 10 is ''shí'' (十) * 100 is ''bǎi'' (百) * 1,000 is ''qiān'' (千) * 10,000 is ''wàn'' (万)}} There are 10 ''jiǎo'' (角) in a yuan. A coin worth ¥0.1 will thus say 壹角 ("1 jiǎo"), on it, and a price like ¥3.7 would thus be read as "3 ''kuài'' 7". The ''jiǎo'' is rapidly heading for extinction, although you will get the odd 1 or 5 jiao coin or note as change. In spoken [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]], the ''jiǎo'' is usually called the ''máo'' (毛). A tenth of a ''máo'' is a ''fēn'' (分); you may see this digit on prices, but it will be rounded off if you pay in cash. In spoken language, the trailing unit may be dropped. For example ''wǔ bǎi sān'', literally "five hundred three", means 530 or "five hundred three tens". The number 503 would be read as ''wǔ bǎi líng sān'', literally "five hundred zero three". Similarly ''yì qiān bā'', literally "one thousand eight", means 1800. When using larger numbers, Chinese has a word for ten thousand, ''wàn'' (万), and thus for example 50,000 becomes ''wǔ wàn'', not ''wǔ shí qiān''. [[Image:China currency overview.jpg|thumb|Chinese coins and bills]] * '''Coins''': ¥0.1 (1 jiao; dull silver or shiny silver), ¥0.5 (5 jiao; gold or shiny silver), ¥1 (silver) * '''Bills''': ¥0.1 (1 jiao), ¥0.5 (5 jiao), ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥20, ¥50, ¥100 A lot of Chinese currency will be in the form of bills – even small change. Bills are more common in some areas, coins in others, but both are accepted anywhere. Even the jiao, at just one tenth of a yuan, exists as both a bill (the smallest) and two different coins. Conversely, one yuan exists as a coin and as two different bills. You should be prepared to recognize and handle either version. Not all businesses accept cash, even if legally required to, and will often not have any change available. If you wish use cash, prepare small amount bills (¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥20) and coins just in case. You can redeem small amount bills and coins at a bank. At the most banks, you can redeem a "pocket money bag" (零钱包), which contains different small amount bills and coins. You can select the default configuration or a custom configuration, and the redeem amount is in units of ¥100. Each bank has a different design for "pocket money bag". If you don't want to wait at bank or bank is closed, you can redeem pocket money at supermarkets or convenience stores because supermarkets or convenience stores always ready a lot of pocket money. ====Foreign currency==== Foreign currencies, including the Hong Kong dollar or U.S. dollar, are rarely seen as a substitute for yuan except in some five-star hotels, and in some shops on the Hong Kong-Shenzhen border. Many shops won't accept other currencies. ====Counterfeiting==== With the popularity of mobile payment apps, counterfeit banknotes are less of a problem than before, but you should still be alert for them. Banknotes of ¥20, ¥50, and ¥100 are the main risks. When you're given one of these bills as change, scrutinize it to check. The main focus is on the texture of different parts, metal line, change of colours under different lights. Everyone has their own method, so just ask. When you pay with a ¥50 or ¥100 banknote in a shop or taxi, it's socially accepted that you note down the last few digits of the banknote you are handing over. This is in case they claim your banknote is fake, then these remembered digits will ensure they give you the same note back. Some unscrupulous money exchangers in border areas give counterfeits to travelers. Go to a bank if you're not experienced in checking notes. Major border crossings often have a currency exchange counter run by one of the large banks; these are safe to use. It is common for cashiers to scrutinize banknotes and some of the more expensive supermarkets even have machines that can spot counterfeits. This is standard practice in China and offence should not be taken. Counterfeits from ATMs are not common, but some people are still concerned. If you are worried, withdraw your money from the bank counter and say "I worry about jiǎbì (''counterfeit'')". Bank staff are understanding about this. ====Currency exchange==== Although still restricted, the yuan is readily convertible in many countries, especially in Asia. The Hong Kong dollar, U.S. dollar, Canadian dollar, euro, pound sterling, Australian dollar, Japanese yen, South Korean won, and Singapore dollar can be easily exchanged in China. Currency should only be changed at major banks (Bank of China in particular), or with the licensed money changers usually found at airports or high-end hotels, although the latter usually offer terrible rates. Private money changers are uncommon. You should avoid black market for currency exchange as '''counterfeiting''' is a major issue, especially with money changers in markets and hanging around large banks. Foreign exchange is under tight control in China. In a bank, it usually takes 5 to 60 minutes to process the exchange. Bank branches in major cities usually know the procedure and are relatively quick, while even main branches in provincial cities can take much longer. You must fill out a form, and your passport will be photocopied and scanned. Keep the exchange receipt if you plan to leave the country with larger sum of money. Not all banks with the "Exchange" logo will exchange money for non-customers or for all currencies in cash. For example, Standard Chartered will only exchange cash for its customers and will only do US dollars and Hong Kong dollars in cash (but opening an account is quick and doable even on a tourist visa, and they offer a better cash exchange rate than most local banks). Exchanging U.S. currency for yuan can be simple, but expect the bills to be heavily scrutinized before the exchange is processed. Opportunities to buy yuan before entering China, for example when coming overland from Hong Kong or Vietnam, should be taken, as the rates are better. The same is true going the other way — selling just across the border will often net a more favorable rate. You may only import or export a maximum in local currency of ¥20,000 in cash, and sums greater than US$5,000 cash in foreign currency require paperwork. Most international banks will allow you to get a cash advance via a debit or credit card at a Chinese ATM. However, the rates for such actions are often unfavorable and may include steep service charges. It's useful to carry an international currency such as pounds sterling, U.S. dollars, or Japanese yen to fall back on should you not have access to a cash machine. If you are planning to stay a long time in China, e.g. for work or study, you may want to open a Chinese bank account. See [[Working in China#Banking]] for more information. ===ATMs=== Many ATMs will only accept Chinese bank cards. ATMs from three of the big four banks are likely to accept foreign (Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, Diners) cards: Bank of China (BOC), Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), and China Construction Bank (CCB). Although ATMs from other banks are abundant, state they accept Visa/MasterCard/Cirrus and have an English option, they are not likely to work with an international credit/debit card unless the ATM operator is a foreign big-name bank (HSBC, Citibank, Bank of East Asia). Before traveling, find out if your home bank charges a currency conversion fee (often between 0-3%) on such transactions. It is worth opening a zero conversion fee account beforehand if possible. If you have trouble because the ATM requires a 6-digit PIN and your PIN only has four digits, try adding two zeros before it. If you find yourself in a town with a Bank of China branch but no international network-capable ATM, it is usually possible to get a cash advance on a credit card inside the bank for a 3% fee. Just ask. UnionPay, the local ATM card network, has made agreements with various ATM card networks around the globe. If your card is covered, any ATM in China will accept withdrawals and balance inquiries from your card. While UnionPay ATM and/or debit cards are now issued by banks in a number of countries, ATM cards linked to NYCE and Pulse in America (also applies to cash advances from Discover cards), Interac in Canada, and LINK in the UK are covered. If your bank is part of the Global ATM Alliance, Bank of Nanjing is the local partner for fee-free withdrawals except for Bank of America, where China Construction Bank is the local partner, and Barclays, which has no local partner. ===Credit cards=== [[File:Dalian large Shopping Mall 2005.jpg|thumb|Inside a mall in [[Dalian]]]] Outside of star-rated or chain hotels, major supermarkets, and high-class restaurants, '''foreign credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are generally not accepted''' and most transactions will require cash or mobile payments. Many department stores and large grocery stores have point-of-sale terminals for Chinese bank cards, but most foreign cards are not supported. Most Chinese banks and many merchants use the UnionPay system, so a foreign card that supports UnionPay will probably be widely accepted. Several countries now have banks that issue UnionPay credit cards, and UnionPay supports Discover and JCB (Japan Credit Bureau) cards as well. Visa, MasterCard and American Express meanwhile are less common. Most convenience stores take UnionPay, as do most restaurant chains, stores selling high-value items, grocery store chains, and most ATMs. In 2017, it was reported that the new Discover cards with chip would require multiple attempts or did not work at all in most of the POS machines. Do not rely on credit cards as your sole payment method. Consider signing up for an international card that can interact with UnionPay. If you have a bank account in [[Hong Kong]] then you may be able to open an additional renminbi account with a UnionPay card which is convenient for traveling in the mainland. As with debit cards, Chinese retail clerks will usually present the POS credit card terminal to the cardholder for entry of a PIN for chip-and-pin cards. Visitors from sign-only countries should attempt to explain that fact to the clerk (while chip-and-sign cards will cause most terminals to automatically skip the PIN prompt), and sign the receipt as usual. ===Costs=== China is affordable for Western visitors, though it's noticeably more expensive than much of the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Unless you are heading to [[Hong Kong]] or [[Macau]], China is generally much less expensive — from a traveler's perspective — than industrialized countries. If you eat local food, use public transportation and stay in budget hotels or hostels, then ¥200-300 is a serviceable daily backpacker budget. However, if you want to live an extravagant lifestyle and eat only Western food and stay in luxury hotels, then even ¥3,000 a day would not be enough. As a general rule, basic items are relatively cheap, but the prices of luxury items are exorbitant, even by the standards of Japan and Western countries. Western-branded products in particular are extremely expensive, sometimes more than double what you would pay for the same items in the U.S. There is a high degree of variation in prices depending on where you go. Major cities like [[Shanghai]], [[Beijing]] and [[Guangzhou]] generally cost more than smaller cities and rural, inland parts of the country. The boom towns of [[Shenzhen]] and [[Zhuhai]] are also more expensive than the national average. Nonetheless, many Hong Kong or Macau residents (who live just across the border from Shenzhen and Zhuhai, respectively, and who are generally more affluent than mainlanders), often go to these cities to shop, play golf, and enjoy services like massage as prices are far lower. ===Tipping=== As a general rule, tipping is not practised in China. While tipping would rarely be regarded as insulting, in some cases a tip might be seen as suggesting that a relationship is based on money, not friendship. When leaving a tip on your table, it is common to see a waiter chase after you to return the money you "forgot" to take. In China, compliments over service is usually expressed in implicit ways. If you are a smoker, you are expected to pass a cigarette to the service staff or manager. If you don't do so, you will be seen as selfish and egocentric. It is common to buy a bartender or pub owner a drink. In a hotel, it is customary not to tip for room service, airport service, taxis or anything else, although hotels that routinely serve foreign tourists may allow tipping for tour guides and associated drivers. Masseurs in some areas such as Shenzhen have been known to ask for a tip. However, if they become pushy, most Chinese see this as extortion and an immoral practice, so just be firm if you don't wish to give any. Taxi drivers do appreciate a few yuan rounded up if they have made an extra effort for your journey; however, it is by no means required. ===Shopping=== {{See also|Shopping in China}} {{infobox|Antiquities banned from export|China's government has banned the export of antiques from before 1911, the date of the revolution that overthrew the Qing Dynasty. Violation of this law could lead to heavy fines and even imprisonment.}} Shopping is a national pastime in China. In most brand name shops, upscale malls and supermarkets, the prices already have Value-Added Tax (VAT) and any sales tax included. Thus, anything with a marked price tends to be sold at that price or, perhaps, slightly below especially if you pay cash and do not require a receipt for your purchase. For unmarked goods, there is '''wide room for [[bargaining]]'''. Visitors from Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan and foreign countries can claim a partial refund of the VAT when departing mainland China, provided they leave via specific ports. See [[Shopping in China#VAT refund]]. China excels in handmade items, partly because of long traditions of exquisite artisanship and partly because labor is still comparatively inexpensive. The overwhelming majority of the "antique" items you will be shown are fakes, no matter how convincing they look and no matter what the vendor says. [[Image:China porcelain.jpg|thumb|Porcelain at Shanghai's antique market]] * '''Porcelain''': with a long history of porcelain manufacture, China still makes great porcelain today. * '''Furniture''': China has become a major source of antique furniture. * '''Art and Fine Art''': Traditional painting, modern art, and hand-painted reproductions of great works. * '''Jade''' There are two types of jade in China today: one type is pale and almost colorless and is made from a variety of stones mined in China. The other type is green in color and is imported from [[Myanmar]] (Burma) - if genuine! * '''Carpets''': China is home to a remarkable variety of carpet-making traditions, including Mongolian, Ningxia, Xinjiang, Tibetan and modern types. * '''Pearls & pearl jewellery''': Cultured Akoya and freshwater pearls are mass-produced and sold at markets across China. * '''Other arts and crafts''': Cloisonné (colored enamels on a metal base), lacquer work, opera masks, kites, shadow puppets, Socialist-realist propaganda posters, wood carvings, scholar's rocks (decorative rocks, some natural, some less so), paper-cuts, and so on. *'''Clothing''': China is one of the world's leading manufacturers of clothing, shoes and accessories. There are affordable tailors anywhere in China. There is also traditional Chinese clothing, and a growing revival movement. *'''Brand-name goods''': Genuine branded foreign goods won't be cheaper than in Western countries. There are many sources of knock-offs or fake brand-name goods. *'''Software, music and movies''': Most CDs (music or software) and DVDs in China are unauthorized copies. *'''Endangered species''': Avoid purchasing &mdash; coral, ivory and parts from endangered animal species. Anyone buying such products risks substantial fines and/or jail time either when trying to leave China with them or when trying to import them into another country. * '''Electronics''': Chinese companies are innovators in consumer electronics. In particular, they have become the world leader in drones for photography. [[Shenzhen]] is particularly famous for its electronics markets. ===Bargaining=== {{Seealso|Shopping in China#Bargaining|Bargaining}} [[File:Market china.jpg|thumb|Merchandise at a market in China]] Bargaining is a national pastime in China. You can bargain over almost anything, and sometimes it's even possible to ask for discount in a restaurant at the last minute before paying the bill. Many restaurants or bars will willingly offer a free dish or two (such as a fruit plate in a KTV) if you have made a particularly large order. Shopping malls are less willing to bargain, but why not ask "Will I get a gift?" Prices are almost always posted, but they are all substantially marked up, normally 2-3 times. It's often better to buy souvenirs somewhere just a few blocks away from the tourist spots. It is hard to tell what price to offer when starting negotiations. Depending on the city, product or market in question, 5% to 50% of the posted price or vendor's first offer is common. If someone offers you too-great-to-be-true discount, it could be a sign that the goods are of less-than-great quality. The rule of thumb is to walk around and compare. In tourist spots, it's common to ask for a 30-50% discount, but in a place catering to local people, asking for a 50% discount sounds foolish. In tourist places, don't take what merchants say seriously. When you ask for a 50% discount, they may be appalled and show scorn; it's a favorite drama. ===Basics=== Unless you have a supermarket within walking distance of your hotel (see next section below), the most convenient option for basic supplies and groceries will almost always be a convenience store. Major chains in China include Kedi, Alldays, FamilyMart and 7-Eleven. Many convenience stores sell individual tissue packets, which are a necessity for touring China as many public restrooms do not have toilet paper. Some discount and mid-market department stores in China also have groceries sections. ===Western goods=== {{seealso|Shopping in China#Brand-name goods}} Areas with large expatriate communities like [[Beijing]], [[Shanghai]], [[Guangzhou]] and [[Shenzhen]] have small specialty grocery stores catering to those communities. They usually stock imported snacks, alcohol, and specialty groceries such as meats and cheeses and are often very expensive. Several Western-owned supermarket chains are widespread in China: American Wal-mart (沃尔玛 Wò'ěrmǎ), German Metro (麦德龙 Màidélóng), and French Carrefour (家乐福 Jiālèfú). All have some Western groceries, often at high prices. However, the availability of foreign products diminishes at their branches according to the size of the city. Metro is probably the best of these; in particular it usually has a fine selection of alcohol. Asian-owned chains include Japanese AEON (永旺 Yǒngwàng), Taiwanese RT-Mart (大润发 Dàrùnfā), South Korean LOTTE Mart (乐天玛特 Letianmate) and Filipino SM; they also carry imported goods. Some larger Chinese chains such as Beijing Hualian (北京华联 Běijīng Huálián) also carry a limited selection of foreign products. === Tobacco=== {{Seealso|Shopping in China#Tobacco}} {{main|Tobacco}} Smoking is quite common and cigarettes (香烟 xiāngyān) are generally cheap. Cigarettes can be purchased from small neighbourhood stores, convenience stores, counters in supermarkets and in department stores. Rolling tobacco and papers are rare in urban China. Lighters (打火机 dǎhuǒjī) are usually cheap (about ¥1) but flimsily made. Zippos are available but expensive. Smoking is something of a social activity in China. In a bar or at dinner few Chinese will light up without offering cigarettes around the table, or at least to the men since few Chinese women smoke; visitors should do the same. Having an expensive brand is a status symbol. ==Eat== {{main|Chinese cuisine}} [[File:Yangzhou - fish dish - P1070031.JPG|thumb|A fish dish in a [[Yangzhou]] restaurant]] Food in China varies widely between regions, so the term "Chinese food" is a blanket term, about as descriptive as "Western food." Still, there are some broad characteristics. Gastronomy has a long history in China, and dishes subtly balance many flavors, aromas, and colors. Each region developed cuisine and techniques based on the ingredients at hand, so you'll find spicy meat-filled dishes in cooler inland regions, slowly simmered seafood stews in coastal regions, quickly stir-fried fresh vegetables in busy southern ports like [[Guangzhou]], and simple and hearty meat dishes in the [[Northeast China|Northeast]] with its notoriously harsh winters. Even many native Chinese find food from outside their home region to be "foreign". In southern China, '''rice''' (米饭 ''mǐfàn'') is a staple food served with many meals, so much so that its root word 饭 (''fàn'') means "meal" as well as "cooked grain". It may be served plain (eaten by itself as a side, or used as a bed to soak up sauce from the main dish), stir-fried with a variety of ingredients to make '''fried rice''', a quick tasty street meal and a common way to use up leftovers at home, or made into '''congee''' (粥 ''zhōu''), rice porridge that's a common breakfast. '''Noodles''' (面 ''miàn'') are another important staple, made from either rice or wheat, and served in a variety of methods. Soybeans are used to make '''soy sauce''', a quintessential seasoning in Chinese cooking. They're also used to make '''tofu''' (豆腐 ''dòufu''), which comes in many forms besides tasteless white blocks: some can be as flavorful and crispy as meat, others quite pungent like a blue cheese. Chinese gourmands place emphasis on '''freshness''' so your meal will most likely be cooked as soon as you order it. Searing hot woks over coal or gas fires make even street food usually safe to eat. Indeed freshly prepared street food is often safer than food sitting on the buffet lines of 5-star hotels. Still, use common sense: if it's a searing hot summer day and the kebab vendor has their raw meat sitting unrefrigerated on the counter, you might want to head elsewhere. Various types of Chinese food provide quick, cheap, tasty, light meals. Street food and snacks sold from portable vendors can be found throughout China's cities, good for breakfast or a snack. And Western-style fast food is arguably as popular as the domestic variety. Yelp and TripAdvisor are virtually unknown in China, while the Michelin Guide only covers Shanghai and Guangzhou, and is not taken seriously by most Chinese people. Instead, most Chinese people rely on [https://www.dianping.com/ Dazhong Dianping] for restaurant ratings, but the downside is that it is only available in Chinese. ===Etiquette=== {{seealso|Chinese cuisine#Respect}} China is the birthplace of '''chopsticks''' (筷子 ''kuàizi''), which are used for most Chinese food. Chinese cuisine evolved to be eaten using chopsticks, with almost all food prepared in bite-sized chunks or easily picked apart. Eating with chopsticks is a surprisingly easy skill to pick up, although mastering them takes a while. Some chopstick guidelines to be aware of: * '''Never''' place or leave chopsticks upright in a bowl of food (reminiscent of funeral rites), pass something from your chopsticks to another person's chopsticks (another funeral rite), or drum your bowl with chopsticks (reminiscent of beggars). * Always use chopsticks as a pair, like a set of tongs; '''never''' use just one chopstick at a time (nor one in each hand), hold them in your fist like you would a knife or dagger, or try to "cut" food with them like you would with a knife. Spearing food with your chopsticks is generally rude and should be done only as a last resort. * Using chopsticks to move plates or bowls is rude. * Pointing at things with your chopsticks is rude. (Pointing at people in general is rude; with chopsticks, doubly so.) Even when setting chopsticks down on the table, angle them so they're not pointing at anyone. * In general, try not to touch food with your fingers. Even fried chicken is picked up with chopsticks and gingerly nibbled, touching it as little as possible. Small bones should be spat onto your plate or bowl, rather than removed using your hands or chopsticks. For foods that are eaten with your hands, disposable plastic gloves may be provided. It's normal to pick up any bowl of food for easier eating, and you can put a bowl of rice directly to your mouth to push the last few bites in using your chopsticks. '''Spoons''' are used for soups and porridge, and to help with eating noodles in a soup. In traditional Chinese dining, dishes are shared '''family style''', and at larger tables there is usually a lazy Susan to pass dishes around. * Communal chopsticks (公筷 ''gōngkuài'') are not always provided; if not, just use your own chopsticks to transfer food to your bowl. It's not rude to request communal chopsticks from the restaurant, but it may make you look like a stickler for formality. * Each communal dish should only be served from by one person at a time. Don't reach across someone to reach a farther dish while they're serving; wait until they're done. * Once you put something on your plate, don't put it back. Confucius says never leave someone else with what ''you'' don't want. * Do not start eating until the most senior person at the table has started eating. Don't expect to get a fortune cookie with your meal; that's strictly a Western custom. (Fortune cookies were actually invented in California sometime in the early 20th century.) Most Chinese have never even heard of them. ===Regional cuisines=== {{seealso|Chinese cuisine#Regional cuisines}} Several varieties of Chinese food have enough international popularity that you may already recognize some of them: * '''Cantonese''' cuisine (from [[Guangdong]]), is by far the most widely known type of Chinese food abroad. Neither bland nor spicy, Cantonese cuisine will use almost anything as an ingredient, often preserving the freshness by quickly stir-frying in a very hot wok or steaming. Dim sum, ''siu mei'' (roast meats, including roast duck, crispy skin roast pork, ''char siu'', etc.), claypot rice with Chinese sausage and wonton noodles are among the most famous Cantonese dishes. * '''Huaiyang''' cuisine (from the eastern area towards [[Shanghai]]) is considered a good mix of northern and southern Chinese cooking styles. Dishes tend to focus on a main ingredient, which is often seafood in this coastal region; flavors are often sweet, and almost never spicy. Its most famous dishes include xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), red braised pork belly, drunken chicken, and sweet and sour mandarin fish. * '''Sichuan''' or Szechuan cuisine (from the western inland) is popular with many foreigners for its ''málà'' flavors, using Sichuan peppercorns for a tingling numbness (''má'') and chili peppers for spiciness (''là''). Using lots of meat, preserved foods, and chili oil, it's famous for the original form of Kung Pao chicken, mapo tofu, twice-cooked pork, and dandan noodles. * '''Teochew''' cuisine (from the [[Chaoshan]] region of Guangdong) is well known in Hong Kong and much of Southeast Asia. Particularly known for its braised meats and steamed dishes. Other major traditional cuisines include fragrant and vinegary Shandong, tender Fujian, spicy Hunan, herbal Anhui, and delicate Zhejiang. Ethnic minority cuisines in China include [[Korean cuisine|Korean]], Uyghur, Tibetan, Mongolian, and various cuisines from Yunnan, while Northeastern Chinese cuisine is influenced by both Mongolian and Russian cuisines and includes dishes like potato dumplings and a type of borscht. There is even unique [[Western food in Asia#China|Chinese-style '''Western food''']] to be found in [[Shanghai]] and [[Harbin]]. ===Dietary restrictions=== {{seealso|Chinese cuisine#Dietary restrictions}} People with dietary restrictions will have a '''hard time''' in China. '''''Halal''''' food is hard to find outside areas with a significant Muslim population, but look for Lanzhou noodle (兰州拉面, ''Lánzhōu lāmiàn'') restaurants, which may have a sign advertising "halal" in Arabic (حلال) or Chinese (清真 ''qīngzhēn''). Alternatively, Uyghur cuisine is growing in popularity, and every major city in China will have at least one Uyghur-operated kebab stand selling lamb kebabs (羊肉串 ''yáng ròu chuàn'') and naan (馕 ''náng''). If you are attending university in China, most major Chinese universities have halal canteens to cater to their Muslim students. '''''Kosher''''' food is nearly unknown, and you will have to do some advance planning; there are Chabad houses in major Chinese cities that you can contact to help with this. '''Vegetarian''' restaurants can often be found near major Buddhist temples (look for the character 素 (''sù'') or the symbol 卍, a Buddhist symbol in this context), but elsewhere you'll probably need to ask specifically and it may not always be available. Dairy and eggs are little-used in Chinese vegetarian cuisine, so much of it is suitable for '''vegans''', but do pay attention, especially when it comes to desserts. Be careful and make your requirements clear in ordinary restaurants though, as vegetable and tofu dishes can include non-vegetarian ingredients such as oyster sauce, salted fish, dried shrimp or minced pork. Also be careful of bakery products, as traditional Chinese pastries are often made with lard. Awareness of '''food allergies''' (食物过敏 ''shíwù guòmǐn'') is limited, and '''gluten-free''' foods are virtually non-existent. Pork is the most popular meat in China, so if you see the character for meat (肉) without any other qualifiers (e.g. 牛肉 for beef, 鸡肉 for chicken, or 羊肉 for mutton), assume it is pork. ==Drink== The Chinese love a tipple, but unless you are used to imbibing heavily, be careful when drinking with Chinese. Generally speaking, heavy drinking is more prevalent in northern China than in southern China. There are hardly any liquor laws in China. The legal drinking age is 18, but it's basically not enforced, and you'll never need to show ID. Alcohol can be purchased anywhere and drunk anywhere. ===Toasting=== Toasts are made by saying '''"''gānbēi''"''' (干杯, lit. "dry glass"). Drinks are served in small glasses (even beer is usually drunk from oversized shot glasses), and traditionally you should drain the whole glass for a toast. Chinese toasts are generally one-on-one, not something involving the whole table. At most meals, a visitor can expect everyone at the table to offer them a toast. Visitors should also '''offer toasts''' and not just receive them. This means that if you are out for dinner with a dozen people, you will be expected and pressured to drink around two dozen toasts. Fortunately, it's okay to stick to beer, and Chinese beer is usually low alcohol. It may be considered rude if you don't offer a toast to someone whenever you take a drink, at least at the start of a meal. The same applies to smoking; offer the pack around whenever you want to light up. If you want to take it easy but still be sociable, say "'''suíbiàn''" (随便) or "''pèngbeī''" (碰杯) before you make the toast, then drink only part of the glass. It may also be possible to have three toasts (traditionally signifying friendship) with the entire company, rather than a separate toast for each person. ===Alcohol=== {{Seealso|Chinese cuisine#Alcoholic}} The all-purpose word ''jiǔ'' (酒, "alcohol") covers quite a range of alcoholic drinks. '''Beer''' (啤酒 ''píjiǔ'') is common in China and is served in nearly every restaurant and sold in many grocery stores. The most famous brand is Tsingtao (青島 ''Qīngdǎo'') from [[Qingdao]], which was at one point a German concession. Locally made '''grape [[wine]]''' (葡萄酒 ''pútáojiǔ'') is common and much of it is reasonably priced, but usually bears only the faintest resemblance to Western wines. The Chinese like their wines red and very sweet, and they're typically served over ice or mixed with Sprite. That said, higher-quality local wines that are more similar to their Western counterparts also exist, if you know what to look for. There are also several brands and types of '''rice wine'''. Most of these resemble a watery rice pudding, they are usually sweet and contain a minute amount of alcohol for taste. '''Baijiu''' (白酒 ''Báijiǔ'') is distilled liquor, generally 40% to 60% alcohol by volume, made from sorghum and sometimes other grains depending on the region. Maotai or Moutai (茅台 ''Máotái''), from the eponymous town in [[Guizhou]] Province, is China's national liquor. Maotai and its expensive cousins (such as '''Kaoliang''' from [[Kinmen]] in Taiwan) are well known for their strong fragrance and are actually sweeter than western clear liquors as the sorghum taste is preserved — in a way. Chinese '''brandy''' (白兰地 ''báilándì'') is excellent value, priced about the same as wine. There are several brands; all are drinkable and many visitors find them more palatable than baijiu. The Chinese are also great fans of various supposedly '''medicinal liquors''', which usually contain exotic herbs and/or animal parts. Some of these have prices in the normal range and include ingredients like ginseng, while other more exotic may include snakes, wasps and newborn mice. These can be palatable enough, if tending toward sweetness. Note that some medicinal liquors are only intended for external use. ===Bars, discos and karaoke=== Western-style pubs can be found in the larger cities. Especially in the more affluent and cosmopolitan cities such as Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Beijing, you can find painstakingly recreated replicas of traditional Irish or English pubs. Like their Western counterparts, most will have a selection of foreign beers on tap, provide pub food (of varying quality) and often feature live cover bands. These are mostly aimed at expatriates, so you should not expect to find many Chinese there. Imported beer can be very expensive compared to local brew. To just go out for a few drinks with friends, pick a local restaurant and drink beer at around ¥5 for a 600 ml bottle. It will be Chinese lager, around 3% alcohol, with a limited choice of brand and may be served warm. Most mid- to high-range restaurants will have small private suites for gatherings (usually offered free if there are more than around 5 people), and the staff will generally not try to hustle you out even if you decide to stay until closing time. Many residents frequent outdoor restaurants or roadside stalls and barbecues (烧烤 ''shāokǎo'') for a nice and inexpensive evening. In '''discos''' and '''fancy bars''' with entertainment, you normally buy beer ¥100 at a time; this gets you anywhere from 4 import-brand beer (Heineken, Bud, Corona, Sol, etc.) to 10 local beers. A few places offer cocktails; fewer have good ones. Other drinks are sold only by the bottle, not by the glass. Red wine is in the ¥80-200 range (served with ice and Sprite) and mediocre imported whiskeys (extremely rarely single malts) and cognacs, ¥300-800. Both are often mixed with sweet bottled green or red tea. Vodka, tequila and rum are less common, but sometimes available. Bogus "brand name" products are fairly common and may ruin your next day. These places often have '''bar girls''', attractive young women who drink a lot and want to play drinking games to get you to consume more. They get a commission on whatever you buy. In general, these girls will not leave the bar with you; they are professional flirts, not prostitutes. [[File:Wuhan-LuoyuDongLu-karaoke-4108.jpg|thumb|A karaoke place near the Huazhong University of Science and Technology campus in [[Wuhan]]]] '''Karaoke''' (卡拉OK ''kǎlā'ōukèi'') is huge in China and can be broadly split into two categories. More common is the no-frills karaoke box or '''KTV''', where you rent a room, bring your friends and the house gives you a mic and sells you booze. Much favored by students, these are cheap and fun with the right crowd, although you need at least a few people for a memorable night. Rather different is the distinctly dodgier '''special KTV''' lounge, more oriented to businessmen entertaining clients or letting their hair down, where the house provides anything and everything at a price. At these often opulent establishments &mdash; over-the-top Roman and Egyptian themes are standard &mdash; you'll be joined by short-skirted professional karaoke girls, who charge by the hour for the pleasure of their company and whose services may not be limited to just singing badly and pouring your drinks. Don't venture into these unless you're absolutely sure somebody else is footing the bill, which can easily run into hundreds of dollars even if you keep your pants on. Never accept an invitation to a restaurant or bar from an available-looking woman who just picked you up in the street sometime after sundown. At best, suggest a different place. If she refuses, drop her on the spot. More than likely, she will steer you into a quiet little place with too many doormen and you will find yourself saddled with a modest meal and beer that will cost you ¥1,000 or worse. And the doormen won't let you leave till you pay up. ===Tea=== China is the birthplace of tea culture, and at the risk of stating the obvious, there's a lot of '''[[tea]]''' (茶 ''chá'') in China. Green tea (绿茶 ''lǜchá'') is served up for free in some restaurants (depending on region) or for a small fee. For more information, see [[Chinese cuisine#Tea]]. The most common types served are: * gunpowder tea (珠茶 ''zhū chá''): a green tea named after the appearance of the bunched-up leaves used to brew it * jasmine tea (茉莉花茶 ''mòlìhuā chá''): green-tea scented with jasmine flowers * oolong (烏龍 ''wūlóng''): a half-fermented mountain tea. Specialist tea houses serve a vast variety of brews, ranging from the pale, delicate white tea (白茶 ''báichá'') to the powerful fermented and aged pu'er tea (普洱茶 ''pǔ'ěrchá''). Most tea shops will be more than happy to let you sit down and try different varieties of tea. "Ten Fu Tea" is a national chain. Chinese teas are drunk without sugar or milk. However, in almost all cities you will find abundant Hong Kong style "milk tea" (奶茶 ''nǎichá''), and maybe Tibetan "butter tea". Taiwanese bubble tea (珍珠奶茶 ''zhēnzhū nǎichá'') is also popular; the "bubbles" are balls of tapioca and milk or fruit are often mixed in. ===Coffee=== [[Coffee]] (咖啡 ''kāfēi'') is popular in urban China, though it can be quite difficult to find in smaller towns. Several chains of coffee shops have branches in many cities. There are many small independent coffee shops or local chains. See [[Chinese cuisine#Coffee]]. ===Cold drinks=== Many drinks that are usually served chilled or with ice in the West are served at room temperature in China. Ask for beer or soda in a restaurant, and it may arrive at room temperature, though beer is more commonly served cold, at least in the summer. Water will generally be served hot. That is actually good, because only boiled (or bottled) water is safe to drink. Small grocery stores and restaurants sell cold drinks, just look for the cooler (even though it might not actually be cool). You can try bringing a cold beverage into a restaurant. Most small restaurants won't mind—if they even notice—and there is no such thing as a "cork" charge in China. Most people will be drinking tea, which is free anyway, so the restaurant is probably not expecting to profit on your beverage consumption. Asking for ice is best avoided. Many, perhaps most, places just don't have it. The ice they do have may well be made from unfiltered tap water and unsafe for travelers sweating bullets about [[Travellers' diarrhea|diarrhea]]. ==Sleep== [[File:Muyu-rural-inn-5476.jpg|thumb|Rural inn in Shennongjia, [[Hubei]]]] Availability of accommodation for tourists is generally good and ranges from shared dorm rooms to 5-star luxury hotels. [[Sleeper trains]] can also be a decent option if you schedule your long-distance travel overnight (see the [[#Get around|Get around]] section above). Since 2024 any licensed hotel in China outside restricted areas by law ''must'' accept foreigners. In practice, many hotels, especially cheaper ones or those in remote areas, never got the memo, don't know how to use the mandatory registration system, or simply don't want to bother. You can try your luck by showing them the [https://www.gov.cn/hudong/202405/content_6952770.htm official announcement in Chinese]{{Dead link|date=July 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, but using an English-language booking service like Trip.com can help avoid this hassle, as hotels that choose to list there are almost always foreigner-friendly. Any hotel will make a photocopy of your passport, some will check if your visa has expired, and they are supposed to share information with the authorities. On rare occasions, someone from your hotel will escort you to the local police station to satisfy the establishment's reporting requirement. Finding a hotel when arriving in a Chinese city is difficult if you don't know where to look and what you're looking for. In general, neither star ratings nor price are an accurate indication of the quality of the hotel, so research before booking. If you're willing to pay ¥180 or more for a room, you'll probably have little problem finding one. There are usually cheap hotels near the train or bus station. If you plan to look for a place to sleep after arriving in town, it's best to arrive before 18:00 or the most popular places will be booked for the night. If you are absolutely at a loss for finding housing, the local police (警察) or Public Security Bureau (公安局) can help you find a place to crash, at least for one night. '''Prices are often negotiable,''' and a sharp reduction from the price listed on the wall can often be had, even in nicer hotels, by asking "what's the lowest price?" (最低多少 ''zuìdī duōshǎo''). When staying for more than a few days, it is also usually possible to negotiate a lower daily rate. However, during the busy Chinese holiday seasons prices sky-rocket and rooms are hard to get. Many chains and independent hotels have membership cards offering discounts to frequent guests. Sometimes, guests might encounter business cards stuffed under the room door offering "massage" services (actually a euphemism for prostitution, which is strictly illegal. Police typically conduct random checks for crackdown). '''Booking a room over the Internet''' with a credit card can be a convenient and speedy method of making sure you have a room when you arrive at your destination, and there are numerous websites that cater for this. Credit cards are not widely used in China, particularly in smaller and cheaper hotels. Such hotels usually ask to be paid in cash, and many hotels ask for a cash security deposit of a few hundred yuan up front. Some online services allow you to book without a credit card and pay cash at the hotel. During Chinese holidays, when it is difficult to get a room anywhere, this may be an acceptable option, but in the off-season, rooms are plentiful almost everywhere and it may be just as easy to find a room upon arrival as it is to book one over the Internet. Across China, check-out is normally noon, and there is often the possibility of paying half a day's cost to get an 18:00 checkout. '''Camping''' in China is in a legal grey area, but in general, the authorities will not stop you from camping in the wilderness so long as you stay out of restricted areas and do not damage the environment. Try to avoid camping too close to a city, as the police tend to be edgier about that, and you might be forced to unpitch your tent and be escorted to a hotel. Designated campgrounds are still somewhat of a rarity in China, but becoming more common. RV camping is also growing in popularity, and it is possible to explore China by RV with some advanced planning. ===Low-cost housing=== Many ultra-cheap options would not appeal to most travelers from developed countries for security and cleanliness reasons. In the cheapest range of hotels it is important to ask if hot water is available 24 hours a day (有没有二十四个小时的热水 ''yǒuméiyǒu èrshisì ge xiǎoshí de rèshuǐ''), and check if the shower, sink and toilet actually work. A room next to a busy street as traffic may keep you up late and wake you up early. [[File:Yangzhou - guesthouse sign - P1080108.JPG|thumb|Signage over a budget hotel in Yangzhou]] * '''Hostels (青年旅社)''' are the most comfortable low-cost options. They typically cater to foreigners, have English-speaking employees, and provide cheap, convenient transport around town. Some of them are even cleaner and better furnished than more expensive places. Hostels also have a cozy, international atmosphere and are a good place to meet other travelers and get some half-decent Western food. In most cities of any size there is at least one hostel available, and in travel hot spots there are plenty of hostels, although they can still fill up quickly because of their popularity with backpackers. Hostels can often be booked on-line in advance although you should bring a print-out of your confirmation as not all hostels are aware that you can book their rooms (and pay a portion of the cost) on-line in advance. In Beijing, many hostels are in '''hutongs''', traditional courtyard homes in the midst of a maze of traditional streets and architecture. While many of Beijing's hutongs have been demolished, a movement to save those which remain has led to a boom in youth hostels for backpackers and boutique hotels for the mid-range traveler. * '''Dorm rooms (宿舍)''' are found on university campuses, near rural tourist attractions and as part of some hotels. Most travelers have spotty luck with dorms. It is common to have rowdy or intoxicated roommates, and shared bathrooms can take some getting used to, especially if you're not used to traditional squat toilets or taking cold showers. However, in some areas, especially on top of some of China's holy mountains, dorm rooms might be the only budget option in a sea of luxury resorts. * '''Zhùsù (住宿)''', which simply translates as "accommodation", can refer to any kind of sleeping accommodation, but those places that have 住宿 written on the wall outside are the cheapest. A zhusu is not a hotel, but simply rooms for rent in homes, restaurants, and near train and bus stations. Zhusu rooms are universally spartan and bathrooms are almost always shared. The price can be quite low, costing only a few dozen renminbi. Officially a zhusu should not provide a room to a foreigner, but many times the caretaker is eager to get a client and will be willing to rent to anyone. There are never any English signs advertising a zhusu, so if you can't read Chinese you may have to print out the characters for your hunt. Zhusus may not be very secure, so watch your belongings. * '''Spas''': spa costs vary but can be as low as ¥25. Admission to a spa is typically for 18-24 hours, but entering a spa late at night (after 01:00) and leaving before noon may get you a 50% discount. These are a popular option for Chinese businessmen visiting a city for just one night so they can save on the hotel bill. Spas provide beds or reclining couches and a small locker for bags and personal possessions (this is ideal if you are traveling light), but there is no privacy because everyone sleeps in one room (but there is more security than in a dorm, since there are attendants watching over the area, and your belongings are stored away in a locker). Don't be fooled if receptionists try to make up reasons why you have to pay more than the listed rate; just stand your ground and they will back down. ===Budget hotels=== [[File:Yangzhou - 7 Tian Liansuo Jiudian - P1070222.JPG|thumb|A mid-range hotel in Yangzhou with a couple of cheaper establishments nestled on its first floor]] Budget hotels cater almost exclusively to Chinese clients and usually lack English-speaking staff. Particularly in rural areas, many of them are unaware of how to use the mandatory registration system for foreign guests, and thus reluctant to accept foreigners. However, since 2024, they have been required by law to accept foreigners, so be firm but polite with the front desk staff, and particularly if you can speak some Chinese, you should be able to convince them to accept you. The cheapest range of Chinese budget hotels (one step above the zhusu) are called '''zhāodàisuǒ''' (招待所). Unlike zhusu these are '''licensed''' accommodations but are similarly spartan and utilitarian, often with shared bathrooms. Slightly more luxurious budget hotels and Chinese business hotels may or may not have English signs and usually have the words '''lǚguǎn''' (旅馆, meaning "travel hotel"), '''bīnguǎn''' or '''jiǔdiàn''' (宾馆 and 酒店, respectively, meaning "hotel") in their name. Room options typically include singles and doubles with attached bathrooms, and dorms with shared baths. Some budget hotels include complementary toiletries and Internet. In small towns a night's stay might be as cheap as ¥25; in bigger cities rooms usually cost ¥80-120. These hotels can be quite noisy as patrons and staff may be yelling to each other across the halls into the wee hours of the morning. In a room with a shared bath, you may have to wait to use a shower or squat toilet that isn't in any sort of appealing condition. In smaller budget hotels, the family running the place may simply lock up late at night when it appears no more customers are coming. If you plan to arrive late, explain this in advance or else you may have to call the front desk, bang on the door, or climb over the gate to get in. ===Mid-range hotels=== These are usually large, clean and comfortable, with rooms ranging from ¥150 to over ¥300. Frequently the same hotels will also have more expensive and luxurious rooms. The doubles are usually quite nice and up to Western standards, with a clean private bathroom that has towels and free toiletries. A buffet breakfast may be included, or a breakfast ticket can be purchased for around ¥10. Sprouting up around China are a number of Western-quality mid-range hotels that include the following chains, all of which have rooms in the ¥150–300 range and on-line advance booking: * {{sleep | name=7 Days Inns | alt=7天连锁酒店 | url=http://www.7daysinn.cn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JinJiang Inns | alt=锦江之星 | url=http://www.jinjianginns.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JI Hotel | alt=全季酒店 | url=https://www.hworld.com/hotel/quanji | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= | lastedit=2024-12-28 }} * {{sleep | name=Home Inns | alt=如家快捷酒店 | url=http://www.homeinns.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Green Tree Inns | alt=格林豪泰酒店 | url=http://www.998.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=(English) }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 Motels by Wyndham | alt=速8酒店 | url=http://www.super8.com.cn/Home/Index | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2024-12-28| content= }} ===Splurge=== The high end includes international hotel chains and resorts, such as Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton and Shangri-La and their Chinese competitors. They charge hundreds or thousands of yuan per night for luxurious accommodations with 24-hour room service, satellite TV, spas, and western breakfast buffets. Many of these establishments charge heavily for food and amenities (i.e. ¥20 for a bottle of water which costs ¥2 at a convenience store). Internet (wired or wireless), which is usually free in mid-range accommodations, is often a paid service in high-end hotels. Some hotels in the ¥400–700 range are willing to lower their prices when business is slow. Chinese three and four-star hotels will often give block pricing or better deals for stays of more than 5 days. If you are coming to China on a tour, the tour company may be able to get you a room in a true luxury hotel for a fraction of the listed price. ==Learn== {{Seealso|Studying in China}} Traditional Chinese culture places a strong emphasis on education, so there is no lack of options for those who wish to receive quality education in China. The downside is that the system is extremely competitive, and Chinese students are under intense pressure from their families and peers to succeed academically. China's universities offer many different types of courses, and some of them are regularly ranked among the top universities in the world. Universities accept students who have achieved the minimum of a high-school education for courses in the Chinese language. These courses usually last 1 or 2 years. Students are given certificates after they complete their course. Students who do not speak Chinese and want to study further in China are usually required to complete a language-training course. There are many opportunities to learn Chinese in China, including university courses and special programs. Scholarships may be available, from your home country or the Chinese government. In any city with a sizeable expat community, you can also find private classes, which you can take on the side while [[working in China]]. While not as popular as Mandarin, there are also some opportunities to study the local dialects and ethnic minority languages. ==Work== {{seealso|Working in China}} China has grown so much that it is on track to become the world's biggest economy. Although the labor market is difficult for foreigners to access, there are numerous opportunities for those who wish to experience life in China. It is illegal to work in China on a tourist or business visa, and while many foreigners used to get away with doing so, the Chinese government is cracking down on the practice; you will need to proactively make sure your employer goes through the appropriate procedures for you. Employment opportunities include [[English teaching|English-language teaching]], engineering, tech jobs, international trade, scientific research and working for multi-nationals. For most jobs, Chinese immigration law requires foreigners to have at least a bachelor's degree and 2 years of work experience before they can be granted a work visa, and your application will be rejected if you do not have one. See [[Working in China]] for details. ==Stay safe== While China is generally safe for visitors, the government has some authoritarian aspects, and the topic of '''human rights''' in China is highly contested. Despite what's written in the Chinese constitution, in practice some freedoms are strongly curtailed, such as free speech, privacy, freedom of information and the press, freedom of religion, and the right to a fair trial. As long as you're not deliberately provocative, most of these are unlikely to affect you during your visit — especially since enforcement is somewhat arbitrary anyway — but if they do, punishments can be heavy. China is known to use extrajudicial detention, torture, and the death penalty. Often criticized as "hostage diplomacy", detentions and enforcement are sometimes stepped up in reaction to geopolitical events. Chinese dual citizens and people of Chinese heritage who are citizens of other countries have been subject to "exit bans", kept in China, sometimes for years, to compel them to cooperate with government investigations or pressure their relatives to return to China. As long as you behave and do not get involved in drugs or political activity, you shouldn't have any problems. Even bypassing the Internet firewall or accessing potentially subversive material is usually overlooked for the average visitor. However, it doesn't hurt to have a contingency plan in case you run afoul of the government. ===Police=== [[File:Chine police.JPG|thumb|right|Typical public security police officers]] [[File:Pékin, People's Armed Police at Tianamen Square (1).JPG|thumb|right|A typical PAP soldier]] [[File:Shantou, Guangdong, China - Chengguan Officials.jpg|thumb|right|Chengguan officers in uniform but without their peaked caps]] The main law enforcement agency you will encounter is the '''public security police''' (公安, ''gōng'ān''; 警察, ''jǐngchá''), or civilian police (民警, ''mínjǐng''). You can recognise officers by their uniforms, usually comprising light blue shirts and navy blue peaked caps, though traffic police wear white peaked caps. Officers are required to carry their police identification cards when on duty, and must present them to members of the public on request. Police officers in China typically do not carry firearms on standard patrol. Most police officers are professional and helpful when approached, though the language barrier can be a problem for foreign tourists. The '''People's Armed Police''' (PAP) (武警, ''wǔjǐng''), is a branch of the Chinese military with law enforcement responsibilities. They guard key installations such as airports, embassies and government buildings, and assist the civilian police with crowd control. Their soldiers wear military uniforms with the characters 中国武警 at the top of the insignia patch on their left sleeve. Most PAP soldiers are professional and helpful when approached, but you should not expect much English language ability. '''Chengguan''' (城管, ''chéngguǎn'') are employed by municipal governments to assist the police in maintaining public order. Their uniforms are similar to those of public security police officers, but in a slightly darker shade of blue. They do not have powers of arrest. Chengguan officers have a reputation for being poorly-trained, brutal, and sometimes corrupt. The Chinese government is cracking down on corruption, so ''under no circumstances'' should you offer a bribe to any type of law enforcement officer. If you are asked for a bribe, you can call the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) hotline at '''12388''' to make a report, or do so [https://www.12388.gov.cn/ online], with the caveat that the web-site is only in Chinese. '''Private security officers''' in China dress similarly to the police, and also often use lights and sirens on their vehicles, but do not have powers of arrest. ===Crime=== [[Crime]] rates vary across this huge nation, but in general China's crime rate compares favorably with those of most Western countries. It is generally not a problem for women to roam the streets alone at night. Violent crime is very rare, but scams and opportunistic thefts are more common. So long as you take the usual precautions and use your common sense, you should be fine. Crime rates are generally higher in the larger cities than in the countryside, but lower than those of Western cities of similar sizes, so if you avoid seedy areas and use your common sense, you'll be fine. Video surveillance is widely used in urban and in some rural areas. [[Pickpockets|Pickpocketing]] is an issue in crowded places. Be particularly vigilant when on public transport during peak hours. Bicycle theft can be a problem. Follow what local people do. Assume your expensive lock won't help at all; professional thieves can break virtually any lock. Bike parking is common outside supermarkets or shopping centers, and usually charges ¥1-2 per day (usually until 20:00–22:00). If you have an electric bicycle or scooter, be extra cautious as the battery packs or charger may be targeted. If possible, find a bike park that is monitored by CCTVs, as that will make it easier for police to track your bike down should it get stolen. The main crimes foreigners get into trouble for are drug use (including drug use outside China before you arrived — they sometimes do a hair test for cannabis) or working illegally, with the consequence usually being a short sentence, fine and deportation. If you are accused of a more serious crime, then your first 72 hours of investigation is critical. It is during that time that the police, prosecutors and your lawyers will investigate, negotiate and decide if you are guilty. Police use hard interrogations (or torture) immediately after arrest because eliciting a confession is the quickest way to secure a conviction. Chinese law prohibits your lawyer from being present during your interrogation. You do not have the right to silence and are required to answer the police's questions truthfully. If your case goes to trial, then your conviction is merely a formality (99.9% of criminal trials in 2013 ended in a conviction), and the judge's only role is to decide your sentence. Signing any document during your interrogation would be an extremely bad idea, especially if you do not understand what you are signing. You should politely insist that you be allowed access to consular services and a translator. ====Scams==== {{See also|Common scams|Pickpockets}} Chinese people are in general hospitable to foreigners, and want to leave a good impression on tourists visiting their country. However, there are also scam artists who operate at tourist hot spots. High prices do not necessarily indicate a scam. In a teahouse or bar, ¥50-200 per cup or pot of tea (including hot water refills) and ¥15-60 per bottle of beer is not uncommon. Tea samplings may also charge high prices for each sample. Touristy parts of Beijing and Shanghai have become notorious for various scams. If you are keen to avoid being scammed, the following are good rules of thumb: * It is less likely for scammers to operate outside of the usual tourist spots * If you are approached in a touristy area by a person who appears ''too'' enthusiastic about going to a particular place (teahouse or otherwise), you are likely to pay a premium and maybe get a better time elsewhere * If you are uncomfortable, ''walk away.'' * Most ordinary Chinese people are unable to speak English, so be on your guard if someone approaches you spontaneously and starts speaking to you in English. The police are sensitive to foreigners being targeted in this way. In China, you have a legal right to ask for a "fa piao" (发票, lit. receipt/invoice) which is a sales invoice issued by the taxation department. It is against the law for an owner to refuse to give it to you. For scams, they generally will refuse since it is legal evidence of their extortionate price. Accident scams occur, too, and even 'good samaritans' who help people genuinely in distress have been sued for compensation by the people they were trying to help. These scams are not tried on foreigners too often, but be careful when using a vehicle and always record your journey with a dashboard or bicycle camera. If you find yourself being or having been scammed then call 110 and report it immediately. Suspicious phone calls can be enquired through '''96110'''. The police may also alert you if you or your family members encounter possible scams through this number with area code prefix (such as 010-96110 if you are in Beijing). ===Traffic=== {{see also|Driving in China}} [[File:瀋陽市街地.jpg|thumb|Traffic in [[Shenyang]]]] In general, driving in China can range from anywhere from nerve-rattling to outright reckless. Traffic can appear chaotic. Cars are allowed to turn right on a red light and do not stop for pedestrians, regardless of the walk signal. Cars drivers, cyclists and electric scooter drivers will all drive assuming they all have right of way/priority at once. Pedestrian crossings are a guide for the driver where pedestrians are more likely to cross. In cities, however, it is unlikely drivers will be traveling fast enough to cause significant damage. Do as the locals do: cross the road with confidence, be aware of your surroundings, know that cars, bikes and scooters will tend to continue rather than stop. Driving a car in China requires a Chinese driving license, and obtaining one is far too complex a process for the average visitor. See [[Driving in China]] if you do want to run the bureaucracy gauntlet. China has the highest adoption rate of electric cars in the world, and they are much quieter than petrol or diesel cars. Be sure to look carefully before crossing the street. ===Terrorism=== Although rare, terrorist attacks in China have occurred, mostly in [[Xinjiang]], where there is a longstanding insurgency by Uyghur Islamist separatists, though there have also been several high-profile attacks outside the province. There is airport-style security at all major train stations, metro stations, and long-distance bus terminals. You will have your bag X-rayed and take water bottles out of your bag to be scanned separately, but there is no need to empty your pockets. ===Begging=== Chinese people traditionally disapprove of [[begging]], so begging is not a major issue in most places. It is, however, never far off the scene and particularly common just outside the main tourist attractions and in major transportation hubs. Be aware of child beggars who could be victims of child trafficking. While it is becoming less common, you should avoid giving them any money. In China, local people usually only give money to those who have obviously lost the ability to earn money. Professional beggars have clear deformities, and some syndicates have been known to deliberately maim children as it is seen as more effective in soliciting pity. If you feel like giving them some, bear in mind that the minimum hourly wage ranges from ¥11 to ¥24 (2020).<!-- look for updates here: https://www.china-briefing.com/news/minimum-wages-china-2020/--> ====Fake Buddhist monks==== The presence of foreign tourists unaware of local Buddhist customs has also given rise to many scams, with many fake monks and temples preying on unsuspecting visitors. Buddhism in China generally follows the Mahayana school, whose monks are required to be vegetarian, and usually grow their own food in the temples, or buy their food using temple donations. As such, they generally ''do not'' go on alms round. The main exception is the Dai ethnic minority in [[Yunnan]], who are mostly Theravada Buddhists. While it is customary for Theravada Buddhist monks to go on alms rounds in the morning (since they are not allowed to eat after noon), they are not allowed to accept or even touch money, and alms bowls are solely for the purpose of collecting food. If you see a "monk" soliciting monetary donations, he is fake. Monks also do not sell religious items (these are sold by laymen), and neither do they offer "Buddha's blessing" in exchange for money, or curse you should you not donate. Most temples will have a donation box in the main hall for devotees to make donations should they wish to do so, and monks will never go out in public to ask for donations. According to traditional Buddhist philosophy, it is entirely up to an individual to decide whether and how much he/she wishes to donate, and genuine Buddhist temples will never use high-pressure tactics to solicit donations, or ask for any amount of money in exchange for services. ===Nature=== [[File:Trimeresurus stejnegeri.jpg|thumb|The Chinese bamboo viper]] Being a large country, China is affected by a range of different natural disasters. Pacific [[cyclones|typhoons]] hit the coast in the summer and autumn months, bringing physical destruction and torrential rain. Floods also occur, in particular around the large rivers. Northern parts of the country have winter storms. Much of the country is prone to [[earthquakes]] and [[tornadoes]]. China has a variety of '''[[venomous snakes]]'''. Be careful when hiking and seek immediate treatment for any snakebite. The bright green '''bamboo viper''' (''Trimeresurus stejnegeri'') is especially notorious. ===Illicit drugs=== Drug offences are dealt with harshly in China. Chinese authorities do not distinguish between soft (e.g. marijuana) and hard (e.g. heroin) drugs. It is an offence just to test positive for drugs, even if they were consumed outside the country, and hair tests can come back positive even months after last consumption. Any positive test will likely result in you being detained and deported. While you can usually get away with possession of small quantities of drugs with a detention (up to 15 days), fine and deportation, drug trafficking is '''punishable by death'''. If you have a record of drug use, you may be subject to directed police raids. There are also targeted raids of bars and nightclubs that foreigners frequent. Chinese people usually associate drugs with national humiliation (due to an unlimited influx of opium after the Opium Wars); publicly doubting the death penalty for drug trafficking or advocating for drug liberalization will likely get you publicly criticized. ===Banned items=== Due to the fast pace of change in China, you may find some items (especially media) continue to be banned by customs although they are readily available for purchase in the country. Your belongings may be searched for illicit items such as the ones below when entering China through an airport, although in practice it is rare. * Materials considered by the authorities as ''Anti-Chinese'' will be confiscated. This has a fairly wide interpretation, but can include the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan lion-mountain flag and literature about the Falun Gong religious group, independence movements in Xinjiang, Tibet, Hong Kong and Taiwan or the Tiananmen Square protests. As a rule of thumb, ''do not bring anything critical of the Communist Party of China''; if some literature refers to the government of the PRC as the Communist Party of China (中共), then it's either from Taiwan (as the local official term when referring to the Chinese government), and/or its stance is likely to be critical of the party. The official English abbreviation for the Communist Party of China is the CPC; publications using the abbreviation "CCP" may be presumed critical of the government and confiscated. **''The Epoch Times'' (大紀元時報) and ''Ming Hui Times'' (明慧周刊/明慧周報) are two examples of Falun Gong literature. The Falun Gong sect is known to print proselytising words on Chinese yuan bills, so consider checking your bills to avoid unnecessary hassle. * Maps that are contrary to the Chinese territorial claim, such as coloring [[Taiwan]] as a sovereign state or distinct from Mainland China, or denoting [[Arunachal Pradesh]] (South Tibet) as part of India, are also checked and confiscated at the border. * A heavy penalty is imposed on all '''pornography''' and penalties are counted based on the number of pieces brought into the country. ===Religion=== China is officially atheist, and modern Chinese society is in general secular. Visitors and private citizens are generally free to practice a religion if they wish. However, ''proselytizing is prohibited'' and could lead to arrest and imprisonment. Catholics in China are split between the state-sanctioned Chinese Patriotic Catholic Association (中国天主教爱国会 ''Zhōngguó Tiānzhǔjiào Àiguó Huì''), which is run separately from the Vatican, and illegal '''underground churches'''. The situation is similar for Protestant churches. '''Falun Gong''' is ''illegal'' and heavily censored in China. Visibly supporting it will make you subject to arrest. ===Racism=== Although unprovoked violent racist attacks are virtually unheard of, foreigners, particularly darker-skin ones, often suffer discrimination in employment and are the subject of stereotyping from Chinese people. Even white foreigners, who allegedly enjoy significantly better treatment than locals, have been occasionally confronted by Chinese people during politically sensitive periods. Racism tends to be more common among the older and less educated demographics, and less common among younger university-educated people. Due to geopolitical tensions with the [[United States of America|United States]], many Chinese have developed a negative view of the U.S. government. Nevertheless, most Chinese are still polite and welcoming towards American tourists, and even hardliners usually distinguish between the foreign governments they distrust and individual tourists from those countries. Due to historical conflicts and current geopolitical tensions, many Chinese hold a hostile view of '''[[Japan]]'''. Hate speech against Japanese is common, and hate crimes against Japanese people have been known to occur. Japanese people should be careful and keep a low profile when visiting sensitive sites connected to the Sino-Japanese War such as the Nanjing Massacre Memorial. On sensitive dates like September 18 (the date when the Mukden incident occurred), it is best to take extra precautions and avoid crowds. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan has issued an [https://www.anzen.mofa.go.jp/manual/china_manual.html series of manuals] to instruct how to stay safe during a visit. If your skin tone doesn't match people's assumptions for someone from your country, and especially if you're ethnically Chinese, you may not be treated like you are from the country on your passport. Visas on arrival are sometimes denied on this basis. Chinese people have traditionally held Jews in high regard, but anti-Jewish sentiment has risen as a result of the 2023 Israel–Hamas war due to China's longstanding support of Palestine. Unprovoked harassment or violence against Jews in the street remains exceedingly rare. ===LGBT travelers=== China is generally a safe destination for gay and lesbian travelers. There are no laws against homosexuality in China, though there is censorship of homosexual-themed content in the media, and any hint of activism (e.g. the display of pride flags) is swiftly shut down by the authorities. Gay scenes and communities are found in major cities, but are generally non-existent in rural areas. Chinese society is still rather conservative compared to the West, and most people are unwilling to discuss their sexuality in public. Same-sex marriages and unions are not recognized by the government. While openly displaying your sexual orientation in public is still likely to draw stares and whispers, gay and lesbian visitors should generally not run into any major problems, and unprovoked violence against homosexual couples is almost unheard of. In general, the younger generation in the major cities tend to be more accepting of homosexuality, with [[Chengdu]] in particular being popularly regarded as the gay capital of China. Staff in hotels and guesthouses may assume that a mistake has been made if a same-sex couple has reserved a room with one large bed and try to move you to another room. However, they will generally back down if you insist that it is not a problem. ==Stay healthy== ===Personal hygiene=== Outside major cities, public washrooms range from mildly unpleasant to utterly repulsive. In cities, it varies from place to place. High-quality bathrooms can be found inside major tourist attractions, at international hotels, office buildings, and upper-class department stores. Washrooms in foreign restaurant chains, or any of the coffee chains listed in the drink section are usually more or less clean. While those in common restaurants and hotels are barely acceptable, those in hotel rooms are generally clean. Public toilets are free. Separate facilities are always provided for men (男 ''nán'') and women (女 ''nǚ''), but sometimes there are no doors on the front of the stalls. The sit-down toilet familiar to Westerners is rare in China in public areas. Hotels will generally have them in rooms, but in places where Westerners are scarce, expect to find squat toilets more often than not. Many private homes in urban areas now have sit-down toilets. Western establishments such as McDonald's or Starbucks will have a western toilet, but may not have toilet paper. Carry your own tissue paper (卫生纸 ''wèishēngzhǐ'', or 面纸 ''miànzhǐ'') as it is rarely provided. You can buy it in bars, restaurants, convenience stores and Internet cafés for ¥2. Put used paper in the bucket next to the toilet; do not flush it away as it may block the often poor plumbing systems. There may not be soap in the public washrooms either. The Chinese tend to distrust the cleanliness of bathtubs, and while in China, you should too. In hotels with fixed bathtubs, disposable plastic bathtub liners may be provided. If you feel like having a bath, use them. Wash your hands often with soap if you can find any, carry some disposable disinfectant tissues (found in almost any department or cosmetics store), or use alcohol gel. ===Food === Each major city has an inspection regime that requires each establishment to prominently display the result (good, average or poor). It is hard to say how effective this is. Restaurants generally prepare hot food when you order. Even in the smallest of restaurants, hot dishes are usually freshly prepared, instead of reheated, and rarely cause health problems. When buying street food, make certain it is cooked thoroughly while you are watching; also, visit stalls frequented by locals, and look for plastic-wrapped disposable chopsticks. Minor stomach discomfort may still be experienced from street food and restaurant food alike, but is said to pass as one becomes accustomed to the local food. Ginger can be effective against nausea. ===Drink=== Chinese people ''do not drink water straight from the tap'', even in the cities. All hotels provide an electric kettle you can use to boil tap water or a sealed plastic bottle of commercial mineral water. Tap water is safe to drink ''after'' boiling. Some apartments and businesses have rather large water filters installed to improve the quality of water for cooking and washing. It still doesn't make the water drinkable from the tap, however it does improve the water quality a great deal. Purified drinking water in bottles is available everywhere, and is generally quite cheap. ¥2 is normal for a small bottle. Check that the seal on the cap is not broken. Beer, wine and soft drinks are also cheap and safe. A lot of rivers in China have been contaminated by chemicals that filters can not help much with, although this should only be dangerous if consumed over an extended period of time. ===Pollution=== {{infobox|Smog|Most smog or haze outbreaks are made up of fine particles that are 2.5 microns or smaller (PM2.5). '''N95 masks''' provide good protection against smog as they are at least 95% efficient against fine particles that are about 0.1–0.3 microns. They are 99.5% efficient against larger particles of 0.75 microns or more. As with most things in China, be sure to identify a reputable brand such as 3M }} [[File:8210-Cropped.jpg|thumbnail|N95 mask for dealing with China smog]] [[Air pollution|Pollution and heavy smog]] is a significant problem in many large towns and cities, and even the countryside is not immune. However, due to stricter environmental protection laws and the widespread adoption of electrical vehicles (EVs), the situation has improved significantly, and Beijing is no longer the most polluted city in the world. Long-term effects of smog are unlikely to have a significant effect on your health if you are only in China for a short stay and have no pre-existing respiratory problems. If you are concerned, discuss this with a medical professional before your trip. Places at higher altitudes or plains like parts of Yunnan and Sichuan, Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, Tibet and outlying islands such as Hainan usually have good air quality. This [http://aqicn.org website] can provide detailed hourly pollution readings for most large cities. You will also hear a lot of noise. Construction and renovation are full-time activities. Chinese and long-time residents' ears are adapted to filter and tolerate it. ===Health care=== {{infobox|Healthcare for foreigners|Most major Chinese cities have clinics and hospitals that are more appropriate for foreigners, with English-speaking and Western-qualified staff. Although expensive, it is worth identifying them whenever you plan to stay in an area for a significant time. For non-urgent medical treatment, you may want to consider traveling to [[Hong Kong]], [[Taiwan]] or [[South Korea]] for a higher standard of treatment which may not be particularly more expensive. }} The quality of Chinese hospitals for the Chinese people is generally not up to the standards of the West. Local doctors have been known to prescribe more expensive treatments than necessary; IV drips are routine prescriptions in China, even for minor ailments like the common cold, and doctors have a tendency to liberally prescribe antibiotics. Most locals go to the hospital even for the most minor ailments, and the concept of a private clinic rarely exists. You should consider keeping a significant amount of cash readily available for emergencies, since not being able to pay upfront may delay treatment. Ambulance services are expensive, require upfront payment, are not accorded much priority on the roads and are therefore not particularly fast. Quality of ambulance service also varies with regions, and paramedics in poorer regions are often poorly equipped and trained. Taking a taxi to the hospital in an emergency will often be much quicker. Common therapeutic drugs &mdash; things like penicillin or insulin &mdash; are generally available from a pharmacist with a prescription and considerably cheaper than in western countries. You can usually ask to see the instructions that came with the box. Western medicine is called ''xīyào'' (西药). Less common drugs are often imported, hence expensive. In larger cities there are strong controls over medicine, and even 'standard' cold medicine such as acetaminophen/paracetamol or dextromethorphan may require a prescription. Opiates always require a prescription, although Viagra never does. In smaller cities and rural areas many medicines, including most antibiotics, are often available without a prescription. {{infobox|Common symptoms|* Caught a cold: 感冒 ''gǎnmào'' * Fever: 发烧 ''fāshāo'' * Headache: 头痛 ''tóutòng'' * Stomach ache: 肚子痛 ''dùzitòng'' * Sore throat: 喉咙痛 ''hóulóngtòng'' * Cough: 咳嗽 ''késòu'' See [[Chinese phrasebook]] for more. }} Most Chinese doctors and nurses, even in larger cities, will speak little or no English. However, medical staff are in plentiful supply and hospital wait times are generally short – usually less than 10 minutes at general clinics (门诊室 ''ménzhěnshì''), and virtually no wait time at emergency rooms (急诊室 ''jízhěnshì''). There are private Western-style clinics and hospitals in most major Chinese cities which provide a higher standard of care. The doctors and nurses will speak English (with interpretation services often available for other foreign languages), and are often hired from, or have obtained their medical qualifications in Western countries. They provide an easy and comfortable way to obtain familiar Western treatment from doctors qualified in the West, although you will be paying a steep premium for these services starting at ¥1,000 just for the consultation. Check beforehand to see whether your insurance will cover all or part of this. For any significant surgery, it is worth considering traveling to [[Hong Kong]], [[Taiwan]] or [[South Korea]] as the standard of treatment and care is more aligned to Western standards. Ensure that needles used for injections or any other procedure that requires breaking the skin are new and unused; insist on seeing the packet being broken open. In some parts of China it is acceptable to re-use needles, albeit after sterilization. For acupuncture, although disposable needles are quite common in mainland China, you can provide your own needles if you prefer. The disposable type, called sterilized acupuncture needles (无菌針灸針) usually cost ¥10-20 per 100 needles and are available in many pharmacies. There should be minimal to no bleeding when the needle is inserted and removed if the acupuncturist is sufficiently skilled. While Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is ubiquitous in China, regulation tends to be lax and it is not unheard of for Chinese TCM practitioners to prescribe dangerous herbs. Do some research and ensure you have some trusted local friends to help you out if you wish to see a TCM practitioners. You can head to Hong Kong or Taiwan instead, as the practice is better regulated there. ====Infectious diseases==== As of Oct 2023, '''COVID-19''' restrictions have been largely eliminated, but may vary widely depending on local regulations. Health declaration forms (also known as "black code") are no longer needed for immigration unless one has COVID-19 symptoms. Face masks may still be required in some areas. If making more than a short trip to China, it may be a good idea to get vaccinated against '''Hepatitis A and Typhoid''' as they can be spread via contaminated food, and Japanese encephalitis which is transmitted in rural areas. Parts of southern China have [[mosquitoes]] which transmit '''[[dengue fever]]'''. As of 2019 the official estimate is that nearly 1 million people in China are living with '''HIV/AIDS'''. One in four infected individuals do not know their status. Sex workers, clients of sex workers and injecting drug users are the most infected groups. New diseases are sometimes a threat in China, particularly in its more densely populated parts. There have been cases of '''bird flu''': avoid undercooked poultry or eggs. ==Respect== {{quote|入乡随俗<br/>''Rù xiāng suí sú''<br/>When you enter a village, follow the customs.|author={{nowrap|Chinese proverb (English speakers might say "When in Rome...")}} }} {{infobox|Using people's names|2=Names can be a complicated matter in China. Except for certain ethnic minorities, names always follow the East Asian naming order of '''family name followed by given name'''; this is usually done in English as well. Someone called 陈晓明 (''Chén Xiǎomíng'') therefore has the surname "Chen" and the given name "Xiaoming". Many Chinese acquire English names, which may have no relation to their Chinese name (and are sometimes quite unusual words or non-words). When using their English name, they will likely switch their name to Western name order (given name followed by family name). It's usually okay to address adult friends and children by given names, although using their full name is also common. In formal situations, the default is to address people using their family names with a title, or their full names with a title if necessary to disambiguate. Occupational titles are even used outside the workplace, so a teacher may be called "Teacher Zhang" (张老师 ''Zhāng Lǎoshī'') even outside the classroom, and a manager or business owner may be called "Boss Huang" (黄老板 ''Huáng Lǎobǎn''). Generic titles of varying commonness include ''Xiānshēng'' (先生, "Mr." or "Sir"), ''Tàitai'' (太太, "Madam" or "Mrs."), and ''Nǚshì'' (女士, "Ms."). The informal prefixes ''Lǎo-'' (老, "Old" or "Elder") and ''Xiǎo-'' (小, "Young" or "Little") are also commonly used, but you should avoid calling someone these unless you know the person well. *The title "comrade" (同志) is rarely used nowadays. *Buddhist monks and nuns are customarily assessed as ''Shīfu'' (师父), while Taoist priests are customarily addressed as ''Dàozhǎng'' (道长). *While the title ''Xiǎojiě'' (小姐) is commonly used in Taiwan, Malaysia and Singapore as an equivalent for the English "Miss", it is a euphemism for "prostitute" in mainland China and hence should be ''avoided''. Names for familial relationships (e.g. big sister, uncle) are frequently used for acquaintances and even strangers based on their age relative to you. It will usually be clear from context, but generally when someone refers to another person as "Brother Zhang" or "Aunt Zhang", even in English, they probably don't mean a family member. Ethnic minorities often have their own naming conventions and modes of address, which can sometimes be very different from those of the Han majority. The foolproof method is therefore to ''ask'' how somebody would like to be addressed. }} [[File:China tea serving.JPG|thumb|Tea-serving at a restaurant in China]] Foreigners are still a rare breed in most parts of China, which means that how you interact with people there may well shape their impression of your country or even of foreigners in general. Follow the law, be polite, and try to leave a good impression as it affects the general reputation of foreigners in China. * Unlike Japan and South Korea where bowing is extremely common, in China the practice did not survive into the modern era, and is now only used in certain formal occasions such as marriage ceremonies, funerals, religious rituals, and by students greeting teachers in school. Give a soft '''handshake''' when greeting someone, which can be accompanied by a slight bow. ** '''Buddhist monks and nuns''' should be greeted by placing your palms together at chest level with your thumb and fingers pointing upwards (similar to the Thai wai), and bowing your head slightly while saying ''Ēmìtuófó'' (阿弥陀佛). * '''Personal space''' more or less does not exist in China. Elevators and buses can get very crowded. It's common and acceptable for someone to come in close contact with you or to bump into you and say nothing. Don't get mad, as they'll be surprised and most likely won't even understand why you're offended. * Important items such as business cards or important papers are given and received with '''both hands'''. ** '''Business cards''' in particular are treated very respectfully and formally. How you treat someone's business card is seen as representing how you will treat the person. When accepting a business card, use both hands to pick it up by the corners, give a slight bow of your head, and take the time to read the card and confirm how to pronounce the person's name. It's disrespectful to write on a card, fold it, or place it in your back pocket (where you'll sit on it!); a nice case to keep cards pristine is preferable to a pocket. * '''Smoking''' is increasingly less common amongst younger Chinese, but is still highly prevalent, especially among men. "No smoking" signs are routinely ignored in some places, and it's not unusual for someone to smoke in an elevator or even in the hospital. Some cities now forbid smoking in most restaurants, but enforcement varies. Beijing has one of the nation's strictest smoking laws: you are not allowed to smoke anywhere with a roof; again, enforcement is patchy. Western restaurants seem to be the only ones who consistently enforce the ban. Masks would be a good idea for long distance bus trips. ** If you smoke, it's always considered polite to '''offer a cigarette''' to those you meet. This rule applies almost exclusively to men, but under certain circumstances, such as a club, it's okay to offer cigarettes to women. * In homes and some other buildings, '''slippers''' or sandals are worn indoors. If your hosts are wearing slippers at home, and especially if there is carpet on the floor, remove your shoes and ask for a pair of slippers before you enter, even if your host says you don't have to. * '''Saving face''' is an important concept in Chinese culture, and this concept extends beyond the individual to one's family (including extended family), and even the country. Pointing out mistakes directly may cause embarrassment. If you have to, call the person to one side and tell them in private. ** '''Humility''' is highly valued in traditional Chinese culture, and bragging about your achievements is in general not well received. It is also customary to politely turn down any compliments you receive from others; do not say "thank you" to a compliment as that will come across as arrogant. ** Chinese people sometimes criticize their own country, but you are highly advised not to do it yourself, as the same things being said by a foreigner tend not to be received so well. * '''The elderly''' are traditionally treated with special respect in Chinese society. When riding in public transport, you are expected to give up your seat for elderly passengers; failure to do so would invite scorn from your fellow passengers, and could result in you being publicly shamed on social media. * Swastikas have been used in Buddhist temples since the 5th century to represent Dharma, universal harmony, and the balance of opposites. Like the case for other Asian countries, it does not represent Nazism. * When visiting '''temples''', do not point at the statues of deities with your index finger, as this is very rude. Use your thumb or an up-facing open palm instead. Do not step on the doorstep when entering the temple; always be sure to step over it. At temples that have three doors, always enter using the right door and exit using the left door (facing inward). * Outside of a business context, casual clothes are acceptable at most places, including expensive restaurants. Temples generally expect visitors to be dressed modestly. Sleeveless or low-cut tops are uncommon and may stand out. At the beach or the pool, conservative swimsuits are much more common than bikinis. However, women can generally dress more freely in China than in Japan or South Korea. * In rural areas, it is normal for shrines and tombstones erected for the deceased to be near the roadside. Do not take pictures of graveyards or tombstones. Doing so will provoke significant hostility if you are caught as it is believed to bring misfortune to a community, and can result in your immediate expulsion from the area. ===Gifts=== When visiting someone's home, a small gift is always welcome. Wine, fruit, or some trinket from your native country are common. When receiving a gift, it is generally rude to open it in front of the person who gave it to you unless (s)he specifically tells you to do so. Wait until the person has left and open it in private. Some items are '''not given as gifts''' because of cultural associations. Some things to watch out for: black and white are important colors in funerals, scissors or knives may insinuate you want to cut off your relationship with someone, and many people see mirrors as bad luck. Other taboos are based on homophones: the word "four" (四 ''sì'') sounds like "death" (死 ''sǐ''), "pear" (梨 lí) and "umbrella" (伞 sǎn) sound like "separation" (离 lí, 散sàn), and "giving a clock" (送钟 sòng zhōng) is a homophone for "attending a funeral" (送终 sòng zhōng). These gift taboos and others vary by region and generation, so it's a good idea to consult a local for advice, or at least search the Internet for lists of taboo gifts before you purchase one. Monetary gifts should always be placed in a red envelope (红包 ''hóngbāo''), and never be given on their own. ===Eating and drinking=== Eating is very important in Chinese culture, and '''dining out''' is a widespread way to honor guests and deepen relationships. Seating at a formal dinner follows a specific order, with the host or most senior person at the center. Don't pick up your chopsticks until the most senior person at the table has done so. Table manner varies from different places among different people in different scenarios. Sometimes you can see Chinese spit on a restaurant floor, pick their tooth in front of you, and yell whilst dining, but it's not always welcome. Follow what other people do. Hosts tend to order more food than you can eat because it's considered shameful if they can't stuff their guests. Although it varies regionally, finishing your plate generally means you're still hungry and may prompt your hosts to order ''more'' food, but leaving too much can imply you didn't like a dish; leaving an appropriate amount of food on your plate is a bit of a balancing act. When offered a drink, you're expected to take it or your friends will keep pushing you. Excuses such as "I'm on medication" are better than "I don't feel like drinking". Toasts are common, and it's generally considered rude to turn down a toast (although you can take small sips with each toast). China has a strong drinking culture, especially in business, and turning down alcohol can sometimes cause offense. However, foreigners may be given some slack on this. If the hard ''baijiu'' is too much for you, consider opting for a beer instead. ====Paying==== While splitting the bill is beginning to be accepted by young people, '''treating''' is still the norm, especially when the parties are in obviously different social classes. Men are expected to treat women, elders to juniors, rich to poor, hosts to guests, working class to non-income class (students). Friends of the same class will usually prefer to take turns treating rather than split the bill. It is common to see Chinese competing intensely to pay the bill. You are expected to fight back and say "It's my turn, you treat me next time." That being said, Chinese tend to be very tolerant towards foreigners. If you feel like going Dutch, try it. They tend to believe that "all foreigners prefer to go Dutch". ===Politics=== For your safety, it's best if you '''avoid getting involved in any political activity''', and avoid discussing politics with Chinese people. Most Chinese are passive about their country's politics and reluctant to talk about it, and in most cases, will change the topic of discussion. * Most Chinese are ashamed that their country was forced into unequal treaties with Japan and the Western powers over the past two centuries, and are proud of the progress made by their government in the 21st century in restoring China's status as a great power. Many Chinese are also aware of alternative Western views, but you should tread lightly if you choose to discuss these. * Supporting the '''independence movements''' of Tibet, Xinjiang, Taiwan or Hong Kong is illegal, so you should avoid discussing them. Most Chinese people support their government's position on these issues, and trying to advocate for these movements is going to do nothing more than getting you into the bad books of your hosts. ** Do not suggest that Hong Kong and Taiwan are not part of China. Be sure to use the term "mainland" (大陆 ''dàlù'') or "mainland China" (中国大陆 ''zhōngguó dàlù'') instead of just "China" (中国 ''zhōngguó'') if you are looking to ''exclude'' Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. It is also a common practice in China to refer to Taiwan as "Taiwan Province" (台湾省), and Hong Kong and Macau as "Hong Kong, China" (中国香港) and "Macau, China" (中国澳门). ** Allegations of Uyghur genocide and slavery are sensitive issues that are best not discussed with locals. These are regarded by most Chinese as false allegations that were made up by Western governments for geopolitical reasons. * Avoid discussing any of the '''territorial disputes''' China is involved in, as many Chinese have strong feelings about these issues. If you are drawn into any such discussions, it is best to stay neutral. * '''Japan''' and its role in World War II and other wars with China is a sensitive and emotive issue that is best avoided. Do not display the Rising Sun Flag as that is strongly associated with Japanese imperialism, and is the equivalent of what the Nazi flag symbolizes in the West. To a lesser extent, '''historical and cultural disputes''' with both [[Korea|Koreas]] are also sensitive. ** Avoid displaying Japanese cultural symbols like clothing in places where the Japanese military committed war crimes, particularly [[Nanjing]], and in times of strained Sino-Japanese relations. * Thanks to China's recent development, the Chinese government enjoys strong support among its people despite its authoritarian nature. Common Western views that "they have all been brainwashed" or "they are just too afraid to speak up" oversimplify things. ** On the other hand, there are always dissidents ranging from anti-revisionist communists (who see reform and opening up policies as capitalist backsliding) to pro-democracy activists who oppose the Communist Party, but they generally remain low-profile unless there is a major incident that puts them in the spotlight. * Many Chinese have a strong sense of '''ethnic nationalism'''. Tread particularly carefully if you are of Chinese ethnicity, even if you were born and raised overseas, as you may still be expected to align your political views with that of the Chinese government, and doing otherwise could result in you being labelled a "race traitor". ** The relationships among China's ethnic minorities, and between minorities and the central government, vary widely between different minority groups, and often within those specific minorities. As a tourist, you are generally advised not to discuss these with the locals. Keep in mind that being proud of their minority language and culture does not in and of itself imply wanting independence from China. To a similar extent, this is also true for the Cantonese language and culture in [[Guangdong]]. ===Differing cultural norms=== Chinese people are sometimes puzzled when foreign visitors complain that Chinese people are rude. Many of them feel that really it's foreigners who tend to be rude. What's actually going on is that China has a different set of customs and values from common Western cultures — some Chinese behavior can be jarring to foreigners, and vice versa. People in China are '''friendly ''without'' being polite''' (unlike countries like the UK, where people can be polite without being friendly). Generally speaking, younger well-educated Chinese, particularly those from the major cities, are more likely to behave in a way that conforms more closely to Western cultural norms. [[Image:China no spitting.jpg|thumb|120px|No spitting please]] * Chinese often '''ignore rules''' they don't feel like following, including laws. Among many other things, this includes '''dangerous and negligent driving''' (see [[Driving in China]]) such as driving on the wrong side of the street, excessive speeding, not using headlights at night, not using turn signals, and jaywalking. * '''Spitting''' is common everywhere, including in shops, supermarkets, restaurants, on buses and even in hospitals. Traditional Chinese medicine believes it is unhealthy to swallow phlegm. Although the government has made great efforts to reduce this habit in light of the SARS epidemic as well as the Olympics, it still persists to varying degrees. * Many Chinese do not cover their mouths when they '''sneeze'''. '''Picking one's nose''' in public is common. * As many parts of China are ethnically rather homogeneous, people who are visibly foreign will often elicit calls of "hello" or "''wàiguórén''" (外国人 "foreigner"); you may also hear ''lǎowài'' (老外), a colloquial equivalent. These calls are ubiquitous outside of the big cities (and are not uncommon even there); these calls will come from just about anyone, of any age, and are even more likely from children and can occur many times in any given day. * Similarly, it's rather common that someone may come up and '''stare''' at you as if they're watching the TV. The staring usually originates out of sheer curiosity, almost never out of hostility. * Many Chinese have '''loud conversations''' in public, and it may be one of the first things you notice upon arrival. China is rooted in a community-based culture, and noise means life; loud speech usually doesn't mean the speaker is angry or engaged in an argument (although obviously it can). You may want to bring earplugs for long bus or train rides. * A fairly recent phenomenon particular to China is '''air rage''': groups of passengers being verbally and physically aggressive towards airline staff whenever there is a delay (which is often). This is generally done in order to leverage better compensation from the airline. * The concept of '''waiting in line''' has not fully been adopted in China. You'll have to learn to be more assertive to get what you want, and even push and shove as others do. If you're trying to catch a taxi, expect other people to move further down the road to catch one before you. * Be careful when standing behind people on an '''escalator''', since many people have a look-see as soon as they get off — even when the escalator behind them is fully packed. Department stores have staff to try to prevent this behavior. * People love to use '''elevators''' whenever possible, especially in large family groups. Be extra patient if you want to go around a shopping mall with a baby buggy or luggage. ==Cope== [[File:Chinasocket.jpg|thumb|A typical Chinese wall socket]] '''Electricity''' is 220 volts/50&nbsp;Hz. Two-pin European and North American, as well as three-pin Australian style plugs are generally supported. However, be careful to read the voltage information on your devices to ensure they accept 220 V (twice the 110 V used in many countries) before plugging them in — you may cause burnout and permanent damage to some devices such as hairdryers and razors. Universal extension cords that can handle a variety of plug shapes (including British) are often used. '''Laundry''' services may be expensive or hard to find. In upper-end hotels, it will cost ¥10-30 to wash each article of clothing. Cheap hotels in some areas do not have laundry services, though in other areas such as along the [[Yunnan tourist trail]] the service is common and often free. In most areas, with the exception of the downtown areas in big cities, you can find small shops that do laundry. The '''sign''' to look for on the front door is 洗衣 (''xǐyī''), or spot the clothes hanging from the ceiling. The cost is roughly ¥2-5/item. In even the smallest of cities '''dry cleaning''' (干洗 ''gānxǐ'') outlets are common and may be able to wash clothes. But in some areas you're going to be stuck washing clothes by hand, which is time-consuming and tiresome, so perhaps opt for fast-drying fabrics such as polyester or silk. If you do find a hotel that does laundry, usually they will put all your clothes into the wash together or even with other items from the hotel, so lighter colours are best washed by hand. [[File:Jianshui - old city - P1370481.JPG|thumb|Traditional smoking pipes for sale]] '''Smoking''' is banned in public buildings and public transport except for restaurants and bars (including KTVs) - many of which are outright smoke dens, although many multinational restaurant chains do ban smoking. These bans are enforced across the country. Generally, smoking laws are most strict in Shanghai and Beijing, whilst they are more lightly enforced elsewhere. Many places (particularly train stations, hospitals, office buildings and airports) will have smoking rooms, and some long-distance trains may have smoking areas at the end of each car. Facilities for non-smokers are often poor; most restaurants, bars and hotels will not have non-smoking areas apart from top-end establishments although many modern buildings have a smoke extraction systems which suck cigarette smoke out of the room through a ceiling vent - meaning that the smoke doesn't hang in the air. The Chinese phrase for 'May I smoke?' is 'kěyǐ chōuyān ma?' and 'No Smoking!' is 'bù kěyǐ chōuyān!'. '''Public holidays''' in China are worth being aware of. Although you will never be truly alone in the most popular tourist sites, which includes the popular hikes in particular mountains, on weekends and public holidays these areas can be nearly impassible due to local tourism. What you may have planned as a quiet contemplative hike may turn into a many-hour queue! Know the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_holidays_in_China national holiday dates] and plan accordingly. ===Media=== {{infobox|Please fix it!|''China Daily'', the nationally distributed English newspaper, sometimes publishes constructive criticism of China from frustrated tourists. If you think something about China for travelers needs to be fixed, consider sending a letter to letters{{@}}chinadaily.com.cn or opinion{{@}}chinadaily.com.cn and it might be published.}} Media in China diversified substantially after Mao, with independent outlets offering increasing competition to the state-run agencies of '''[http://www.news.cn/english Xinhua]''' (press agency publishing in many formats), '''[http://www.cctv.cn/ CCTV]''' (more than 40 TV channels), and the '''''[http://en.people.cn/ People's Daily]''''' newspaper. These state-owned media tend to be accurate in terms of general news, but always toe government's line in editorial bias. Each province and city in China is also home to its own local channels, often being subordinated or having close ties to the local government, with a stronger focus on local events. Some of these channels also broadcast in the local dialect or ethnic minority language. Still, the press remains tightly controlled, with restrictions on what news is reported and what opinions may be aired. Certain topics are strictly off limits (such as criticizing China's claim of sovereignty over Taiwan), and the vagueness of boundaries for acceptable topics leads to further self-censorship. The biggest threat to state-controlled media has been the rise of '''text messaging''' and '''Internet news''', although these are restricted by the government's firewall and internal censorship. China has some local English-language news media. CGTN channel is a global English channel available 24/7 in most cities, with French and Spanish variants as well. CCTV 4 has a short newscast in English every day. '''''[http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/ China Daily]''''' (generally subdued, if a bit dry) and the '''''[http://www.globaltimes.cn/ Global Times]''''' (a notoriously nationalistic tabloid) are two state-run English-language newspapers available in hotels, supermarkets and newsstands. There are also a few English magazines such as ''[http://www.chinatoday.com.cn/ctenglish/ China Today]'' and ''21st Century''. Foreign magazines and newspapers are not generally available in bookstores or newsstands except at top hotels. ==Connect== ===Mobile payments=== [[File:Alipay_and_WeChat_pay_signs_in_BurgerKing_ZBAA_(20170309123855).jpg|thumb|Alipay (blue) and WeChat Pay (green) accepted here]] Visa and Mastercard are rarely accepted so it is essential to set up [https://pay.weixin.qq.com/index.php/public/wechatpay WeChat Pay] (微信支付 ''Wēixìn zhīfù'') and [https://global.alipay.com/ Alipay] (支付宝 ''Zhīfùbǎo''). Both services now support linking foreign bank cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, using your home mobile number. If you plan to use a temporary SIM card, wait to link your card until you arrive. It’s wise to link both WeChat Pay and Alipay, as most vendors accept one or both platforms. Alipay+ also allows payments through regional e-wallets, including AlipayHK (Hong Kong SAR, China), Kaspi.kz (Kazakhstan), MPay (Macao SAR, China), Touch 'n Go eWallet (Malaysia), Hipay (Mongolia), NayaPay (Pakistan), Changi Pay (Singapore), OCBC Digital (Singapore), Kakao Pay, Naver Pay, Toss Pay (South Korea), and TrueMoney (Thailand). For guidance, The Beijinger offers an illustrated [https://www.thebeijinger.com/blog/2024/08/26/expats-visitors-rejoice-upgrades-digital-payments-are-here guide] to setting up these services. As a backup, carry enough Chinese cash, as foreign currencies like USD or EUR are rarely accepted. Exchanging foreign currency at banks can be time-consuming, sometimes taking up to two hours. Alternatively, you can withdraw cash from most ATMs. Using Chinese payment networks fully requires a Chinese bank account, but Alipay now allows foreign credit/debit card users to spend up to $2,000 a year without registering an ID. Registered users can make single transactions up to $5,000, with an annual limit of $50,000. WeChat also accepts foreign cards for certain transactions, such as reloading prepaid phone balances or ordering delivery, though requirements may change frequently. Other NFC payment options, like Apple Pay, are not widely accepted. NFC terminals usually only work with Contactless UnionPay cards. While some stores in large cities advertise Apple Pay acceptance, it generally requires a UnionPay card and won’t work with Visa, Mastercard, or AmEx. Google Pay is completely unavailable in mainland China due to the ban on Google. ===VPN=== {{infobox|Which Internet sites are available?|The list of banned websites is secret, changes daily, and varies by mobile or WiFi connection. Blocked sites typically include: * Large '''social media''' platforms: YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram. * '''Messaging services''': Whatsapp. * Most of '''Google's services''': Search, Gmail, Maps ([https://maps.google.cn/ maps.google.cn] may work), Translate ([https://translate.google.cn/ translate.google.cn] may work). Chinese alternatives (often only in Chinese) include [https://www.baidu.com/ Baidu] for search and maps, [http://weixin.qq.com/ WeChat] for messaging, [http://weibo.com/ Weibo] for microblogging, and [https://www.bilibili.com/ Bilibili] for video sharing and [https://www.xiaohongshu.com/ Xiaohongshu] for photo and video sharing. Foreign services like [https://www.bing.com/ Bing] and [https://outlook.live.com/ Outlook] are available. The original Chinese version of TikTok, known as [https://www.douyin.com/ Douyin], runs on completely separate servers from the international version (which is blocked in China), meaning that international content cannot be viewed on the Chinese version and vice versa. '''News sites''' (BBC, CNN, etc.) may be blocked, especially after publishing sensitive stories. Wikipedia is consistently blocked, while access to other Wikimedia sites varies (as of October 2024). The firewall also scans unencrypted or encrypted Chinese messages (QQ, WeChat) for sensitive content and may block or report users. Enforcement changes frequently based on current events. }} The Great Firewall of China blocks popular web services including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Google, WhatsUp, Telegram and many others including Wikipedia. To bypass internet restrictions and access popular websites, travelers often use VPN services. As of September 2024, [https://www.reddit.com/r/chinalife/comments/187vfnl/working_vpns_for_china_read_me_first/ reports] from users consider [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad] and Astrill to be reliable. Popular VPN choices like Express and Nord are not considered relabile. During significant events, VPN services may experience disruptions. Be sure to install the VPN before arriving in China; attempting to do so after landing can be problematic as the service might already be blocked. Other ways to bypass censorship include software such as [http://dit-inc.us/freegate.html Freegate], [http://tor.eff.org Tor] (with an obfs4 bridge), and [https://psiphon.ca Psiphon]. Travelers with the technical know-how are well-served to setup their own private V2ray relays to minimize the risk of detection. Censorship is often tightened during sensitive periods, such as the annual meeting of China's legislature in March, the CCP congress every fourth October, and anniversaries such as the National Day in October and the Tiananmen massacre in June. Another way is to simply roam on a non-Mainland Chinese SIM as mobile data is typically routed through foreign gateways. There is a thriving marketplace of eSIM providers that resell roaming access on various foreign networks, and mobile providers in [[Taiwan]] and [[Hong Kong]] market "Greater Bay" and Mainland roaming SIMs to travelers proceeding onwards to Mainland China. 3HK is a popular low-cost Hong Kong roaming SIM provider that is friendly to foreign customers. === Telephone === Download [https://www.wechat.com/ WeChat] (微信 Wēixìn) for messaging, social networking, and mobile payments. WeChat has largely replaced traditional SMS as the primary means of communication in China, and serves as a useful tool in purchasing tickets for tourist destinations. ==== Mobile phones ==== [[File:ChinaTelecomCustomerOffice.JPG|thumb|A China Telecom shop]] [[Mobile phones]] are widespread and offer good service in China, with strong 4G and 5G networks. International roaming is expensive (¥12–35/min), but roaming data is uncensored. Check rates with your provider or consider a prepaid Chinese SIM card if staying for more than a few days. SIM cards usually require a passport and registration at the provider’s main office. * Major providers: [https://www.10086.cn China Mobile], [https://www.cuguplus.com/company China Unicom] and [https://www.chinatelecomglobal.com China Telecom]. * Most SIMs work nationwide, with no domestic roaming charges. * Mobile data plans are affordable, starting at ¥29/month for 3GB. For international calls, you must enable specific services like China Mobile's "12593" or China Unicom's "17911." Rates are around ¥0.4/min to North America and Asia. ==== Area codes ==== The country code for mainland China is '''86'''. For Hong Kong, it's '''852''', for Macau '''853''', and for Taiwan '''886'''. * Major cities have a two-digit area code (e.g., Beijing: (0)10 + 8 digits). Other areas use three-digit codes (e.g., Zhuhai: (0)756 + 7 digits). * Mobile numbers start with '''1''' and are 11 digits. Add a '''0''' for long-distance calls. ===Business services=== For printing, scanning, photocopying, and other business services, go to one of any number of small shops in most towns or print shops near university areas. Look for the characters 复印 (fùyìn) meaning "photocopy". Printing costs about ¥2 per page and photocopies are ¥0.5 per page. These shops may or may not have Internet access so bring your materials on a flash drive. ===Mail=== Postal services are provided by '''[http://english.chinapost.com.cn/ China Post]''' (中国邮政), which is generally reliable. Sending an express mail envelope within China typically costs ¥23. Hong Kong and Macau operate separate postal systems. Stamps from mainland China cannot be used to send mail from Hong Kong or Macau, and vice versa. ====Courier services==== For sending packages, consider using private '''courier services''' (快递 ''kuàidì''). The major Chinese courier companies are generally reliable and reasonably priced for sending domestic packages. The largest courier company in China is '''[https://www.sf-express.com/chn/en SF Express]''' (顺丰), which has branches at most major international airports that can forward your luggage to your hotel. They also partner with some ski resorts so you can courier your ski equipment and avoid the hassle of having to carry it onto the train with you. Other courier companies include '''[https://www.yto.net.cn/English/en/index.html YTO Express]''' (圆通), '''[https://www.yundaex.com/cn/index.php Yunda Express]''' (韵达), '''[https://en.zto.com/ ZTO Express]''' (中通), '''[https://www.sto.cn/pc STO Express]''' (申通), '''[https://www.deppon.com/en/index Deppon Express]''' (德邦) and '''[https://www.jdl.com/en JD Logistics]''' (京东). For international packages, it is generally advisable to use the large international courier companies like FedEx, DHL or UPS, which also have a presence in China. ===Emergency numbers=== The following emergency telephone numbers work in all areas of China; calling them from a cell phone is free. * Patrol Police: '''110''' ** Traffic Police: 122 ** Scam enquiry: 96110 * Fire Department: '''119''' * (Government-owned) Ambulance/EMS: '''120''' * (some areas private-owned) Ambulance: 999 * Directory inquiries: 114 * Consumer Protection: 12315 112 and 911 do not connect you to emergency service personnel. The police can be contacted by sending SMS message to '''12110XXX''', where XXX is the area code of the prefectural-level city you are located. See [[w:Telephone numbers in China|this list]] for more information. {{related|Working_in_China}} {{related|Rail_travel_in_China}} {{related|List_of_Chinese_provinces_and_regions}} {{related|Driving_in_China}} {{related|Golf_in_China}} {{IsPartOf|East Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|35|103|zoom=4}} 52cmfemphmug8z04w2vbkobjsrbbx4i 0 8789 5090866 4938557 2025-07-10T14:32:32Z Aventuristo 2227055 /* Suburbs */ Fixing grammar in Solon. 5090866 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Cleveland banner.jpg}} '''[https://www.cuyahogacounty.gov Cuyahoga]''' is a county in [[Northeast Ohio]]. The City of [[Cleveland|Cleveland]] is its County Seat and the hub of a 13-county region with 4.5 million people. ==Understand== ==Cities== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===Big City=== *{{marker|name=[[Cleveland]]|wikidata=Q37320}} the County Seat of Cuyahoga County, is the "Rock and Roll Capital of the World" and home to one of the five richest collections of arts and culture institutions in the US. [[Image:Cleveland, Ohio Map.png|thumb|400px|Map of Cleveland and suburbs in Ohio.]] ===Suburbs=== *{{marker|name=[[Beachwood]]|wikidata=Q812890}} - The cosmopolitan mecca of Cleveland's East Side, including the core of both its "Fashion District" and its "Restaurant Row". *{{marker|name=[[Berea]]|wikidata=Q818897}} - A small town on the Rocky River and home to Baldwin-Wallace College as well as the NFL Cleveland Browns Training Center. *{{marker|name=[[Brecksville]]|wikidata=Q904449}} - A quaint suburb tucked into the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Cleveland Metroparks and is situated between Cleveland and Akron. *{{marker|name=[[Cleveland Heights]]|wikidata=Q248922}} - First named "Turkey Ridge", Cleveland Heights is an inner ring suburb that sits atop Cedar Hill (the last of the Allegheny foothills). [[Image:Just below Chagrin Falls.jpg|thumb|200px|Chagrin Falls]] *{{marker|name=[[Chagrin Falls]]|wikidata=Q534836}} - Named after a French fur trader ''Sequin'', Chagrin Falls is a charming town in suburban Cleveland, sitting atop the waterfalls of the Chagrin River. *{{marker|name=[[Independence (Ohio)|Independence]]|wikidata=Q1942086}} - The commercial mecca south of Cleveland, providing businesses accessibility to the East and West Sides of town as well as both Cleveland and Akron. It is home to the Cleveland Clinic Courts - the NBA Cleveland Cavaliers practice facility and team headquarters. *{{marker|name=[[Lakewood (Ohio)|Lakewood]]|wikidata=Q570990}} - Originally named "Rockport", Lakewood is the inner ring suburban home of the Gold Coast, high-rise residences lined up along Lake Erie, just west of Cleveland's Edgewater Park. *{{marker|name=[[Olmsted Falls]]|wikidata=Q1009977}} - Southwest of Cleveland, Olmstead Falls is a small town sitting atop the waterfalls of the Rocky River. *{{marker|name=[[Parma (Ohio)|Parma]]|wikidata=Q862711}} - Cleveland's largest suburb, just southwest of Cleveland. Was originally part of Parma Township. The name was taken from Parma, New York, where it was probably derived from the early-19th century fascination with classical Italy. *{{marker|name=[[Rocky River]]|wikidata=Q1004761}} - Sits on Lake Erie across from Lakewood at the mouth of the Rocky River. *{{marker|name=[[Shaker Heights]]|wikidata=Q1065497}} - Established in 1822 as the North Union Settlement by the religious Shaker community, Shaker Heights became one of America's oldest planned communities in 1912 when it was redeveloped as a garden community for commuters to Cleveland. Today the suburb offers stunning architecture, with many of the homes and other buildings featured in architectural texts. Visitors will also enjoy several picturesque man-made lakes, a {{convert|20|acre|adj=on}} nature preserve, and a historical museum that documents the area's early Shaker roots. Amenities include an excellent public library, numerous restaurants, and shopping destinations including the historic Shaker Square. *{{marker|name=[[Solon]]|wikidata=Q978968}} - A suburb to Cleveland's southeast, home of many of Northeast Ohio's real estate industry elite, and noted in the original theme song from ''The Drew Carey Show'', "let's go bowlin' in Solon". *{{marker|name=[[Strongsville]]|wikidata=Q986314}} - Home to SouthPark Mall, the premier shopping center with a great all around things to do. *{{marker|name=[[Valley View]]|wikidata=Q2368989}} *{{marker|name=[[University Heights]]|wikidata=Q998604}} - University Heights is named for John Carroll University, a private liberal arts college which was originally founded by the Jesuits in 1886 and relocated to its current location within the city in 1935. The small suburb is nicknamed the "City of Beautiful Homes", with many homes dating back to the early 1900s. While it offers few attractions that draw visitors aside from the university, it does have several parks, a public pool, and numerous dining and shopping options. *{{marker|name=[[Westlake]]|wikidata=Q140006}} - A suburb on Cleveland's West Side, home of Crocker Park, an upscale lifestyle center and mixed use neighborhood. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Cleveland Hopkins International Airport | alt={{IATA|CLE}} | url=https://www.clevelandairport.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1100795 | lastedit=2024-03-13 | content=Cleveland's main airport is on the west side of the city. The airport is served by most of the major domestic airlines. }} * {{go | name=Akron-Canton Regional Airport | alt={{IATA|CAK}} | url=https://www.akroncantonairport.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q954097 | lastedit=2024-03-13 | content=Visitors could also use this airport which is a 45-minute drive from Cleveland. }} * {{go | name=Burke Lakefront Airport | alt={{IATA|BKL}} | url=https://burkeairport.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1657006 | lastedit=2024-03-13 | content=A small airport on the shore of Lake Erie that handles private jet and business traffic. }} * {{go | name=Cuyahoga County Airport | alt={{IATA|CGF}} | url=https://www.cuyahogacounty.gov/development | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=In northeastern Cuyahoga County | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1655461 | lastedit=2024-03-13 | content= }} ===By car=== The State of Ohio is served by the following interstate highways: *'''I-71''' connects Cleveland to Medina and then runs southwest toward Columbus. *'''I-76''' serving Akron and Youngstown and connecting to beyond Pennsylvania to the east. *'''I-77''' starts in Cleveland and runs south through Akron, Canton, New Philadelphia and beyond. *'''I-80''' is the Ohio Turnpike (a toll road) that runs across the northern part of the state, serving Cleveland, Akron and Youngstown (where I-80 and I-76 criss cross). *'''I-90''' also serves the far northern part of the state, including Cleveland, Lorain, Elyria, Mentor, Painesville and Ashtabula. ===By train=== Cleveland is served by [[Amtrak]] with a station located on the north end of downtown (near Cleveland Browns Stadium). Most Amtrak routes serving Cleveland arrive and depart in the wee hours of the morning (like in the 1AM to 4AM time frame) so they are a last resort like if you have no car. ===By boat=== Many boaters use the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence Seaway and their connection points as a travel route. There are many marinas and public boat ramps available for this purpose. The [https://www.greatlakescruises.com/ Great Lakes Cruising Company] provides Great Lakes cruises that include Cleveland on the itineraries. ==Get around== *[https://www.riderta.com Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority] ==See== * {{see | name=Independence Slab | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.382083 | long=-81.641667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Independence Slab | image=Independence Presbyterian Church.jpg | wikidata=Q40888739 | lastedit=2018-11-22 | content=A petroglpyh that was used as church building material. }} ==Do== A wide variety of activities await you in Northeast Ohio. Whether you are looking for outdoor fun, culture, the fine arts, history, sports, shopping, clubbing and dining - '''Cleveland ROCKS!''' * {{do|name=Sky Zone Highland Heights|lat=41.5423|long=-81.4541|url=http://www.skyzone.com/highlandheights }} - located in Highland Heights ===Sports=== *'''[[Major League Baseball|Baseball]]'''. ** {{do | name=Cleveland Guardians | alt= | url=https://www.mlb.com/guardians | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=MLB. }} ** {{do | name=Akron Aeros | alt= | url=http://www.akronaeros.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=AA. }} ** {{do | name=Lake County Captains | alt= | url=http://www.captainsbaseball.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A. }} * {{do | name=Cleveland Cavaliers | alt= | url=https://www.nba.com/cavaliers/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-04 | content=Basketball (NBA). }} * {{do | name=Cleveland Browns | alt= | url=http://clevelandbrowns.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-05-04 | content=[[American Football|Football]] (NFL). }} * {{do | name=Football | alt= | url=http://clevelandgladiators.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=AFL: Cleveland Gladiators }} *'''[[Ice hockey in North America|Hockey]]'''. AHL: [https://www.clebarons.com/ Cleveland Barons]. *'''Soccer'''. MISL: [https://www.clevelandforcesc.com/ Cleveland Force]. *'''College'''. Horizon League: [http://www.csuvikings.com/ Cleveland State University]. ===Outdoors=== [[File:Cuyahoga Valley National Park.jpg|thumb|Stone formations found in [[Cuyahoga Valley National Park]].]] * '''[[Cuyahoga Valley National Park]]'''. Located south of Cleveland, this park follows the course of the Cuyahoga River and the historic Ohio & Erie Canal between Cleveland and Akron. A number of older buildings are preserved here. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, with train cars from the 1940s and 1950s also runs through the park. Pick up the train in Independence near '''[https://www.ohioanderiecanalway.com/plan/listings/thornburg-station/ Thornburg Station]''' (8111 Rockside Road), a mixed-use retail, restaurant and office complex sitting between the river and canal. *'''[[North Coast Beaches]]'''. Along the southern shore of Lake Erie are a large number of public beaches. The largest natural sand beach in Ohio, '''[https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/headlands-beach-state-park Headlands Beach State Park]''', is located east of Cleveland, in Mentor. Many other beaches are available throughout Northeast Ohio, including Huntington Beach, Euclid Beach and Fairport Harbor. * '''[[Lake Erie Islands]]'''. Located west of Cleveland, a group of picturesque and festive islands in Lake Erie are accessible via ferry. In addition to several Ohio State Parks located on the islands, there is plenty to do including wineries, restaurants, bars, marinas and beaches. ==Buy== ===Downtown Cleveland=== *'''Tower City Center''', a large urban complex, a retail mall, Ritz Carlton and Renaissance hotels, the hub of the RTA (Greater Cleveland Regional Transportation Authority) rail system and the '''Terminal Tower'''. *'''The Galleria at Erieview''' is another downtown complex that includes a popular lunchtime foodcourt serving the Financial District. ===East Side=== *'''Beachwood Place''', an upscale enclosed shopping mall located at the southeast corner of Cedar and Richmond Rds in the Fashion District in Beachwood. *'''Chagrin Falls''', a quaint Western Reserve style downtown with the Chagrin River (and Falls) running through it. *'''Coventry District''', a hip and eclectic bohemian neighborhood in Cleveland Heights. *'''[https://etonchagrinblvd.com Eton Chagrin Boulevard]''', on Chagrin Boulevard in Woodmere, provides upscale options for shopping and dining. *'''La Place''', upscale retail and dining options located at the southeast corner of Cedar and Richmond Roads in the Fashion District in Beachwood. *'''Legacy Village''', a lifestyle center located at the northwest corner of Cedar and Richmond Roads in the Fashion District in Lyndhurst. *'''Shaker Commons''', a renovated retail district located along Chagrin Boulevard between Lee and Avalon Roads, serving as the town center of Greater Cleveland's most prestigious address, Shaker Heights. *'''Shaker Square''', a turn-of-the-century mixed use urban center located at the secondary hub of RTA's light rail system in Cleveland along the western border of Shaker Heights. *'''Uptown Solon''', located in Cleveland Magazine's multi-year recipient of the "Best Suburb" selection. ===West Side=== *'''Berea''', college town, home to Baldwin-Wallace College. *'''Crocker Park''' provides a mixed-use "new town" environment with upscale shopping in Westlake. *'''Great Northern Mall''' in North Olmsted. *'''Westgate''' in Rocky River. ===Art=== *'''Little Italy''', old world meets new, where this ethnically cultured neighborhood sits on the doorstep of Cleveland's University Circle. *'''Ohio City''', home of the West Side Market, a neighborhood enriched by Italianate and Victorian architecture and breathtaking views of Downtown Cleveland. *'''Tremont''', a neighborhood pioneered by Cleveland's art community has evolved into a diverse young professional community. ==Eat== <!--In region articles this section does not have listings, but is an overview of local cuisine or unusual places to dine, with pointers to their town. --> ==Drink== <!--In region articles this section does not have listings, but is an overview of nightlife, beverages unique to the region or possible unusual clubs or bars, with pointers to their town. --> ==Connect== ==Stay safe== ==Cope== * {{listing | name=Convention & Visitors Bureau of Greater Cleveland | alt= | url=https://www.thisiscleveland.com/ | email=cvb@travelcleveland.com | address=50 Public Square, 3100 Terminal Tower | lat=41.49859 | long=-81.69378 | directions= | phone=+1 216 621-4110 | tollfree=+1-800-321-1004, +1-800-321-1001 | fax=+1 216 623-4499 | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-03-11 | content= }} ==Go next== * '''[[Cuyahoga Valley National Park]]'''. Located south of Cleveland, this park follows the course of the Cuyahoga River and the historic Ohio & Erie Canal between Cleveland and Akron. A number of older buildings are preserved here. The '''Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad''', with train cars from the 1940s and 1950s also runs through the park. Pick up the train in Independence near '''[https://www.ohioanderiecanalway.com/plan/listings/thornburg-station/ Thornburg Station]''' (8111 Rockside Road), a mixed-use retail, restaurant and office complex sitting between the river and canal. *'''[[North Coast Beaches]]'''. Along the southern shore of Lake Erie are a large number of public beaches. The largest natural sand beach in Ohio, '''[http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/headlandsbeach Headlands Beach State Park]''', is east of Cleveland, in Mentor. Many other beaches are available throughout Northeast Ohio, including Huntington Beach, Euclid Beach and Fairport Harbor. * '''[[Lake Erie Islands]]'''. Located west of Cleveland, a group of picturesque and festive islands in Lake Erie are accessible via ferry. In addition to several Ohio State Parks located on the islands, there is plenty to do including wineries, restaurants, bars, marinas and beaches. * '''Hall of Fame Cycle'''. Tourists can plan visits to the Rock Hall, [http://www.invent.org/ Inventure Place] (the National Inventors Hall of Fame in [[Akron]]) and [http://www.profootballhof.com/ the Pro Football Hall of Fame] (in [[Canton (Ohio)|Canton]]). {{geo|41.54|-81.66|zoom=10}} {{isPartOf|Greater Cleveland}} {{usableregion}} 2thwtvlb6w3u1013ky09r21wfnt10uv 0 9171 5090931 5039611 2025-07-10T15:50:14Z 2001:861:D38:61E0:85FA:3ACD:F591:FAD /* Sleep */ Updated listing for Sport Hotel 5090931 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Debrecen_banner_Nagyerdö_Park.jpg|caption=Nagyerdö Park}} [[image:Debrecen, a Nagytemplom télen.jpg|thumb|400px|The Great Church of Debrecen in winter]] '''[http://eng.debrecen.hu/ Debrecen]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' is the "capital city of the [[Great Hungarian Plain]]", and the county seat and largest city of [[Hajdú-Bihar County]] in eastern [[Hungary]]. It is the second largest city in the country with over 200,000 inhabitants (2019), and historically the most important city in Hungarian Protestantism. ==Understand== They used to say "who in their sane mind would build a city in the middle of nowhere where there are no mountains, forests, water or roads?" Still, the answer is a mystery, but Debrecen is the second (or third, depends on the census) largest city of Hungary. It used to be Europe's largest Calvinist city (it was called "The Calvinist Rome"), and the Great Church (''Nagytemplom'') is a reminder of the city's heritage. Debrecen also has a university with the beautiful main building. {{listing | name=Tourinform Debrecen | url=https://visitdebrecen.com/ | email=debrecen@tourinform.hu | address=Piac u. 20 | lat=47.52963 | long=21.62536 | directions= | phone=+36 52 412250 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 535323 | hours=M-F 09:00-17:00, Sa 9:00-13:00, Sunday: closed (Jul-Aug weekdays until 18:00). Ticket office hours M-F 09:00-16:30, Sa 09:00-12:30 | price= | content=Tourist information, souvenirs. Tickets for events. }} ==Get in== ===By plane=== *{{go | name=Debrecen Airport| alt={{IATA|DEB}} | url=http://www.debrecenairport.com/?lang=en | email= | address= | lat=47.488889 | long=21.615278 | directions=5 km southwest of the city center | phone=+36 20 467 9899 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Debrecen International Airport | wikidata=Q903138 | lastedit=2018-07-24 | content=Small airport with a cafe, car rental kiosks inside. There is no currency exchange office, only EuroNet ATMs with draconian exchange rates (10% worse than regular bank one) with additional Ft&nbsp;920 exchange fee. Free WiFi. }} Debrecen is served by about 4-5 flights a day, from several European cities, most of them flown by the budget airline [http://wizzair.com Wizzair]. As of summer 2017, there were the following scheduled flights: * [[London]]-Luton, Wizzair, 10 times a week; * [[Munich Airport]], Lufthansa, 3 times a week; * [[Eindhoven]], Wizzair, 3 times a week; * [[Milan]]-[[Bergamo]], Wizzair, 2 times a week; * [[Paris]]-Beauvais, Wizzair, 2 times a week; * [[Malmö]], Wizzair, 2 times a week; * [[Ben Gurion Airport]], Wizzair, 2 times a week. Charter flights also come regularly to the airport. ''Getting there:'' the airport bus takes you to the city centre, train or bus station. Taxi to the city center costs Ft&nbsp;3000-4000 (2018). ===By train=== [[image:DebrecenTrain.JPG|thumb|200px|Main Train Station in Debrecen]] There are regular trains approximately every hour from [[Budapest]] Nyugati Station. The duration of the trip is 2½ hours. Check the following site for [http://www.elvira.hu timetables]. Other possible destinations include [[Eger]] (need to change train at least one time, 120 km, Ft&nbsp;2200, 2½ hr), [[Karcag]] (59 km, 7-10 per day, one hour, ~Ft&nbsp;1200), [[Nyíregyháza]] (hourly, Ft&nbsp;1100, ~1/2 hr), [[Szerencs]] (99 km, four direct, mostly change at [[Nyíregyháza]], 67-136 min). {{listing | type=go | name=Debrecen Railway Station | alt=Debrecen Vasútállomás | url= | email= | address=Petőfi tér | lat=47.52027 | long=21.62789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1215247 | content= }} ===By bus=== Buses to [[Eger]] (135 km, 7-9 direct per day more with change, 2½ hour), [[Karcag]] (direct three more with change, 80 min), [[Nyíregyháza]] (53-71 km, five direct, 60-110 min), [[Szerencs]] (three hours, all must to change at [[Tokaj]] or [[Miskolc]], nine per day). {{listing | type=go | name=Bus Station | alt=Autóbusz-állomás | url=http://www.hajduvolan.hu/ | email=titkarsag@hajduvolan.hu | address=Külső Vásártér 22 | lat=47.52566 | long=21.61814 | directions= | phone=+36 40-200-756 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 24 hr | price= | wikidata=Q65954941 | content=Run-down building with no currency exchange offices, Wi-Fi or POS terminals (so prepare some cash to pay for tickets). [https://menetrendek.hu Online timetable]. }} === By car === Debrecen is connected to the national highway system by the motorway M35. From [[Budapest]], follow M3 towards [[Nyíregyháza]] and then the M35 (diverge near the 186&nbsp;km sign). A highway toll applies, and it had to be paid in advance (at most gas stations, price is about Ft&nbsp;3000 for a regular car for 10 days.) It is about a 2-hour drive. '''Main road 4''' is somewhat shorter, but it is not recommended because it is often overcrowded (hence much slower) and accidents are not uncommon. ==Get around== [[image:DebrecenTram.JPG|thumb|200px|Tram outside of Debrecen Train Station]] ===By foot=== There are many nice streets around, though there are many less attractive ones as well. Try your luck. ''Nagyerdő'' (the Big Forest) is beautiful. ===By public transportation=== Public transport uses local tickets that cost Ft 440 (or Ft 550 if you buy it on the bus). Don't try to use Budapest tickets; they won't work. The [http://www.dkv.hu/ 'DKV'] runs two '''tram''', five '''trolleybus''' and sixty '''bus''' lines in Debrecen. The tram carries people to the most frequently visited places. It starts at the railway station, goes along the main street, turns at the Great Church a bit, goes to the Old Forest, the Zoo, Theme Park and Public Bath, then around to meet the universities, and then back. A cheap way to see most of the city is to get a ticket at the train station, get on, and enjoy the trip until you're back where you started. [http://www.hajduvolan.hu/ Bus]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} lines are good, in that you can reach nearby places fast. ===By taxi=== There are three main taxi companies in the city: [https://bolt.eu/hu-hu/ Bolt taxi] [http://www.citytaxidebrecen.hu/en/home City Taxi Debrecen]{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and [http://www.fonixtaxi.hu/?lang=en%2F Főnix Taxi], both have mobile apps. ===By car=== Roads are okay. The city is small enough though that you could easily get around by foot or by public transportation. ==See== {{mapframe|47.5286|21.6264|zoom=14}} The Nagytemplom is a must see and easily accessible. As for museums, the Déri Museum is definitely worth a trip, but all the others really depend on how much Hungarian art interests you. Most of the major attractions are in the city park, or Nagyerdő, where you could easily spend a pleasant afternoon. ===Places of worship=== * {{see | name=Great Church | alt=Reformed Great Church, Nagytemplom | url=http://nagytemplom.hu/ | email=nagytemplom@info.hu | address=Kossuth tér | lat=47.5322 | long=21.6241 | directions=in city centre close to Kálvin tér shopping centre | phone=+36 52 412694 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 412694 | hours=M-F 09:00-16:00, Sa 09:00-13:00, Sunday: after church service till 16:00. During services and official programmes the church is closed | price=Tickets: Adult/Reduced Ft&nbsp;400/300 | wikidata=Q897459| wikipedia=Reformed Great Church of Debrecen | image=Debreceninagytemplom légifotó.jpg | content=Debrecen's most recognizable building and a symbol of the city. It is the centrepiece of what was once called "Calvanist Rome". Visitors can tour the interior, as well as go up in the tower to see the Rákóczi bell, the largest bell in Hungary, and excellent views of the city. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Arpad Square Presbyterian Church | alt=Árpád téri református templom | url=http://www.arpadter.reformatus.hu/ | email= | address=Árpád tér | lat=47.53813 | long=21.63787 | directions= | phone=+36 52 412801 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1470125 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Greek Catholic Church | alt=Görög katolikus templom, Istenszülő Oltalma Templom | url= | email=pokrova@freemail.hu | address=Attila tér 1 | lat=47.52735 | long=21.63687 | directions=the tram is 600 m away. In nearby bus stop #5 and 15 buses and #2 trolley. | phone=+36 52 533207 | tollfree= | hours=Masses M-F 06:45, 07:30, 18:00; Su 06:45, 07:30, 08:30, 10:00, 12:00, 16:45, 18:00 (summer) | price= | wikidata=Q65954952 | content=The church was built in 1910, in Neo-Byzantine, based on the plans of János Bobula. Unlike other Greek Orthodox churches there is no iconostasis here. The main sights are the inlaid altar and pulpit with mosaic ornaments in 1910. Valuable seccos and colourful glass windows ornate the church. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Csonka Church | alt=Calvinistic Small Church, Small Protestant Church, Csonkatemplom | url=http://www.kistemplom.hu/ | email=hivatal@kistemplom.hu | address=Kossuth utca or Révész tér 2 | lat=47.52859 | long=21.62471 | directions= | phone=+36 52 342872 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 453569 | hours=Opening hours by appointment M-F 08:30-12:30 | price= | image=Debrecen - csonka templom.jpg | wikidata=Q1246733 | content= }} * {{see | name=Bible Society of Debrecen Baptist Church | alt=Debreceni Biblia Baptista Gyülekezet | url=http://www.biblia-baptista.hu/hu/ | email=info@biblia-baptista.hu | address=Faraktár utca, 42 | lat=47.52944 | long=21.64530 | directions= | phone=+36 30 9119887 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kápolnás Street Synagogue | alt=Kápolnás utcai zsinagóga, Status Quo Ante zsinagóga | url=http://dzsh.hu/ | email= | address=Kápolnás utca, 1 | lat=47.52929 | long=21.62109 | directions=Close to the church at Pásti Street 4 | phone=+36 52 415861 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Debrecen-Synagogue.jpg | hours=By appointment | price=Free | content=This was built in 1910 in eclectic style. This is a Byzantine structure of modernised Moor form, emphasized also by the large dome emerging from its wider environment. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Mester Street Reformed Church | alt=Mester utcai református templom | url= | email= | address=Mester utca Révész Square? | lat=47.53415 | long=21.61618 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q61083912 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Lutheran Church | alt=Miklós utcai evangélikus templom | url=http://degy.hu/ | email=degy@upcmail.hu | address=Miklós St., 3 | lat=47.52596 | long=21.62496 | directions= | phone=+36 52 534408 | tollfree= | hours=Church service Sundays at 10:00 | price= | wikidata=Q61083881 | content=Only Lutheran church is in the city. The church was consecrated on 1 September 1889. The external dimensions of the church 21x8.3 m. The main entrance opens to east. The five long window with semicircular closure was built in the south wall. The north side has no windows, only an entrance and the sacristy. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Pasti Street Synagogue | alt=Pásti utcai zsinagóga | url=http://dzsh.hu/ | email=dzsh@enternet.hu | address=Pásti St, 6 | lat=47.52875 | long=21.62140 | directions=Center, 2-3 minutes from the Arany Bika Hotel | phone=+36 52 415861, +36 30 8461703 (mobil) | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 533273 | hours=Service at 07:00 and 19:00 (summer) | price= | image=Ortodox zsinagóga (5247. számú műemlék).jpg | wikidata=Q19924614 | content=Orthodox synagogue. Built according to the plans of Eugene Berger in 1893. Mikve, kosher food, meal ordering. }} * {{see | name=Reformed Church | alt=Kossuth utcai református templom | url= | email= | address=Kossuth utca | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Historical neo-Gothic church with polygonal apse, transept and western tower. Architekt Petz Samuel, built in 1887-88. Inside Neo-Gothic pulpit and chair of Moses made by Thék Andrew, Lord's Table by Gregersen, an Organ from 1894. The frescoes painted by Haranghy Eugene, in 1937. }} * {{see | name=Roman Catholic Chapel in the Cemetery | alt=Római Katolikus Temetőkápolna | url= | email= | address=Benczúr Gyula utca 6 | lat=47.55469 | long=21.64787 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Debrecen, róm. kat. temetőkápolna és környezete.jpg | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=St. Anne's Cathedral | alt=Szent Anna székesegyház | url=http://www.szentannaplebania.dnyem.hu/ | email=plebania@szentannaplebania.axelero.net | address=Szent Anna utca 15 | lat=47.52677 | long=21.62925 | directions= | phone=+36 52 536 652 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 536652 | hours=Opening hours to church daily 06:30-19:00, Crypt: open only upon request | price=Free | image=St. Anna Kirche Debrecen.jpg | wikidata=Q1296238 | content=Saint Anne's Cathedral was built between 1721 and 1746. In the niches next to the doors on the left we can see the statue of Saint Stephen (István), while on the right his son Prince Saint Emeric (Imre). The main altar-piece represents the patron saint of the church Saint Anne teaching Maria. The oldest altarpiece represents the founder of the Piarist order, Saint Joseph Calasanzi. The carvings and statues of the by-altars are from the 18th century. The wall surfaces on the ceiling and underneath the windows show frescos and stucco ornaments representing saints of the Árpád dynasty. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Veres Church | alt=Red Church, Reformed Church at Kossuth Street, Verestemplom | url=http://www.verestemplom.hu/ | email=debrecen-kossuth.utca@reformatus.hu | address=Kossuth utca 65 | lat=47.5303 | long=21.63493 | directions=near Méliusz square, at the end of Kossuth Street | phone=+36 52 537235 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9.00-12.00 (Parish Office) | price= | wikidata=Q61083896 | content=The church got its ordinary name from the red bricks decorating the front walls. The fourth Reformed church was built from the donations of the Chief Justice and his wife in neo-Gothic style in 1887. Its special features include the murals which are unusual in Reformed churches. The frescoes without human figures recall psalms. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=University Calvinist Church | alt= | url= | email=puskid@freemail.hu | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Next to the main building of the university | phone=+36 30 6161146 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q20478867 | content=The church was built in 1940 in classicist style. It was used as a library of journals, periodicals and music. Since 2006 it has been in the possession of the Reformed Church. }} ===Museums=== [[image:DeriMuseum.JPG|thumb|200px|The Déri Museum, the largest museum in the city]] * {{listing | type=see | name=Déri Museum | alt=Déri Múzeum | url=https://www.derimuzeum.hu/ | email= | address=Déri tér 1 | lat=47.5332 | long=21.6221 | directions=right behind the Great Church, take tram #1 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q736465 | content=A place to see. It's a national museum with all kinds of arts. There is a nature display showing the animal life of the region, another collection featuring historical items from the region, and an art gallery featuring works from Hungarian artists. It's most famous work is Hungarian Mihály Munkácsy's Christ trilogy, three large paintings depicting ''Christ before Pilate, the Crucifixion, and Ecce Homo!'' }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Ferenc Medgyessy Memorial Museum | alt=Medgyessy Ferenc Emlékmúzeum, egykori városgazdaház | url=https://www.derimuzeum.hu/ | email= | address=Péterfia utca 28 | lat=47.53576 | long=21.625786 | directions=just behind the Debrecen Plaza and most easily reached by tram #1 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1175292 | content=Displays the works and life of the artist. }} * {{see | name=Medgyessy Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Piac Str. 31 | lat=47.52922 | long=21.62484 | directions=near Széchenyi street corner - Tram | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=László Holló Memorial Museum | alt=Holló László Emlékmúzeum | url=http://www.medgyessygimnazium.hu/hollo-laszlo-muzeum.html | email= | address=Holló László sétány 8 | lat=47.52352 | long=21.60518 | directions=in Tócóskert, take bus #19 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1037822 | content=Housed on a one-acre park featuring a cottage housing the artist's works and a statue garden. }} * {{see | name=Delizsánsz exhibition hall - Post Museum | alt=Delizsánsz Kiállítóterem - Postamúzeum | url=http://www.museum.hu/debrecen/delizsansz | email= | address=Múzeum u. 3 | lat=47.53229 | long=21.62193 | directions=across the square from the Déri Museum in the main post office | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Debrecen Literary Museum | alt=Irodalmi Múzeum | url=https://www.derimuzeum.hu/ | email= | address=Borsos József tér 1 | lat=47.5394 | long=21.61538 | directions=just north of the downtown, take bus #12, 15, 31 or 32 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q903079 | content=Has a permanent exhibit from the 1890 Csokonai literary circle. It also houses occasional temporary exhibits. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Kölcsey Központ (Modem) | alt=MODEM Modern és Kortárs Művészeti Központ | url=http://www.modemart.hu/ | email= | address=Baltazár Dezső Square 1 | lat=47.53391 | long=21.62149 | directions= | phone=+36 52 518 400 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1161028 | content=Amodern centre for high-profile art exhibitions and musical/theatrical performances. }} * {{see | name=Erdőspuszta exhibition hall | alt=Erdőspusztai bemutatóház | url=http://portal.debrecen.hu/kultura/muzeumok/muzeumok/erdospusztaibemutatohaz_muzeumok.html | email= | address=Fancsika tanya 93/A | lat=47.48313 | long=21.71383 | directions=10 km SE of the city; Bus 9 to stop ' Panoráma út' | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 09:00-18:00 | price=Ft&nbsp;200? | content=In the first house the 'Living in the forest-steppe' exhibition can be seen. Also this place offers Botanical, Dendrology, and landscape experiences. You will get opportunity to know about the lifestyle of the people of the countryside, used farming items, local ornithological rarities and archaeological finds. }} * {{see | name=Mu-Terem Art Gallery | alt=Mű-Terem Galéria | url=http://www.debrecenimuvkozpont.hu/ | email= | address=Batthyány utca 24 | lat=47.52710 | long=21.62909 | directions= | phone=+36 52 532836 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Tanner House | alt=Tímárház | url= | email=timarhaz@debrecenimuvkozpont.hu | address=Nagy Gál István u. 6 | lat=47.52791 | long=21.62646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-F 10:00-17:00, Sa 10:00-14:00 | price= | content= }} ===Sculptures, Monuments=== * {{see | name=Statue of István Bocskai | alt=Bocskai István szobra | url= | email= | address=Kálvin tér | lat=47.53277 | long=21.62472 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Csokonai Memorial tomb | alt=Csokonai-síremlék | url=http://debrecen.varosom.hu/latnivalok/muveszeti-emlekeink/Csokonai-siremlek.html | email= | address=opp. Dorottya utca 39 | lat=47.53058 | long=21.60532 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Csokonai Vitéz Mihály Statue | alt=Csokonai Vitéz Mihály szobra | url= | email= | address=Kálvin tér | lat=47.53312 | long=21.62559 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Csokonai-szobor (5234. számú műemlék).jpg | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Monument of Debrecen Family | alt=Liberation Monument, Debreceni család Emlékmű | url= | email= | address=Csapó utca ~2 | lat=47.53084 | long=21.62500 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Statues on Deri square | alt=Déri téri szobrok | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.53261 | long=21.62211 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Statues at the University | alt=Egyetemi szobrok | url= | email= | address=Egyetem Square | lat=47.55230 | long=21.62157 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Nude man statue by László Marton, Egyetem Square, Debrecen Fountain.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Statues: Méliusz Juhász Péter (1934), Memory for 1956, Sun man/Sitting man, Lying man/Men in the Nude, Huszár Gál (1938), The boy who reaching the water (1964) }} * {{see | name=Michael Fazekas memorial column | alt=Fazekas Mihály emlékoszlopa | url= | email= | address=Benczúr Gyula utca 20. | lat=47.56145 | long=21.63459 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Michael Fazekas and Samuel Diószegi memorial | alt=Fazekas Mihály és Diószegi Sámuel emlékműve | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Galley slaves memorial | alt=Gályarabok emlékműve | url= | email= | address=Kálvin tér | lat=47.53280 | long=21.62436 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kossuth Statue Composition | alt=Kossuth szoborcsoport | url= | email= | address=Kossuth Square | lat=47.53107 | long=21.62431 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Millenium fountain | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kossuth Square | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Other attractions=== * {{see | name=Gold Bull Hotel | alt=Aranybika szálloda | url= | email= | address=Piac St., 11-15 | lat=47.5306 | long=21.6238 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Debrecen főtér.JPG | hours= | price= | content=More see at down at 'stay' }} * {{see | name=Peter Balogh's house | alt=Balogh Péter-féle lakóház | url= | email= | address=Kossuth utca 18 | lat=47.5294 | long=21.6279 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Debrecen's most beautiful historic residential building. The house was built in the 18th century. In 1829, it was transformed by Litsman Joseph in Louis XVI style. The external facade of the house,-above the first floor windows,-decorated with fine ivy's frieze. Wing side of the court over the four arches are patterned the relief mythological figures. The house owners were Kazay pharmacist and Samuel Peter-Balogh merchant. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Csokonai Theatre | alt=Csokonai Színház | url=http://csokonaiszinhaz.hu/ | email=info@csokonaiszinhaz.hu | address=Kossuth utca 10 | lat=47.5296 | long=21.6290 | directions= | phone=+36 52 417811 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 410837 | hours= | price= | image=Csokonai Színház (5240. számú műemlék).jpg | wikidata=Q222780 | content=The theatre was designed by Anthony Szkalnitzky the renascent romantic style, in 1856. The facade is threefold. Three curved driveway to jump forward in front of the entrance area. The facade of the building decorated with Ornamental motifs in stylized Byzantine-Moorish style, also here by John Marschalkó two allegorical female figures and six poets statue placed. One statue of them was Melpomené, the muse of tragedy, the other Terpszikhore, muse of dance. The poets are on right Petofi, Kolcsey, Kisfaludy, on left Csokonai, Kazinczy and Vörösmarty. Floodlighting can enjoy at evenings. }} * {{see | name=Csokonai birthplace | alt=Csokonai szülőháza | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=University of Debrecen | alt=Debreceni Egyetem | url=http://www.drhe.hu/ | email=info@drhe.hu | address=Kálvin tér 16/ Egyetem tér 1. | lat=47.553889 | long=21.621389 | directions= | phone=+36 52 516-820 | tollfree= | fax=+36-52 516-822 | image=Debrecen légifotó.jpg | hours= | price= | content=The units of its the Lajos Kossuth University, the Medical University of Debrecen (Nagyerdei bulvar 98), the Debrecen University of Agricultural Sciences (Böszörményi Road, 138 ) and the Stephen Wargha University of Education in Hajdúböszörmény }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Former First Savings Bank | alt=Egykori Első Takarékpénztár Palotája | url= | email= | address=Piac u. 22-24 | lat=47.52965 | long=21.62467 | directions=centre, at intersection of Kossuth and Piac streets | plhone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65955482 | content=Now there are apartments. This is a three-storey mansard building with complex façade and with rounded corner. In addition to the Savings Bank, there were shops on the ground floor. On the second floor was a casino, in the basement a beer hall and a restaurant, and on the second floor 17 luxury rental apartments. The façade is richly decorated: there are allegorical figures and reliefs showing scenes of the industry, trade, agriculture. The building was planned by Rimanóczy Kalman, and the sculptural decorations were made by Alexander Somogyi. The Market Street facade has 14 axes. The ground floor facade is covered with windows. There is a small sweet shop and a large clothing store. Between axis 2 and 14 up to the second floor, the building is divided by six-six slender pilasters. }} * {{see | name=First Savings Bank of Debrecen | alt=Debreceni Első Takarékpénztár | url= | email= | address=Piac u. 22-24? | lat=47.52918 | long=21.62576 | directions=Center - | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Reformed College | alt=Debreceni Református Kollégium | url= | email= | address=Kálvin tér, 16 | lat=47.53348 | long=21.62386 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Református Kollégium.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Other unit: Maróthi György College (Blaháné u. 15). Built in classicism style, 1804-1816. Designed by Michael Péchy. In 1870-1874 was expanded with the courtyard wing, by Vasél Alajos plans. The wooden library and gallery made in classicist style, in 1823, it was Joseph Dohányosi works. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Hortobágy-mill | alt=Hortobágy-malom | url= | email= | address=Böszörményi u. 1 | lat=47.5351 | long=21.6124 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Just from outside | price= | wikidata=Q65955376 | content=A windmill built in 19th century, now used as a storage. }} * {{see | name=Chamber of Commerce | alt=Kereskedelmi és Iparkamara | url= | email= | address=Petőfi tér 10 | lat=47.5228 | long=21.6281 | directions=near the Railway Station | phone=+36 52 500710 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kolcsey Ferenc Reformed Teachers College | alt=Kölcsey Ferenc Református Tanítóképző Főiskola | url=https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=120180261387849 | email=info@kfrtkf.hu | address=Péterfia utca 1-7 | lat=47.53379 | long=21.62635 | directions=centre | phone=+36 52 518500 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Kölcsey-főiskola.jpg | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Lyceum tree | alt=Boxthorn tree, Líciumfa | url= | email= | address=Fűvészkert Str.-Múzeum Str. corner | lat=47.53245 | long=21.62382 | directions=Center - Tram | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=According to legend, here argued with Valentine priest and master Ambrosius. The canon stuck a tree branch in the ground and spake thus: "It will be something in the new faith, when it is stuck in the ground grow into a tree!" Valentine priest gave the following answer: "Then it shall be tree." A small sprig grew into a tree, and braided the iron lattice window of the parsonage, thus symbolizing the consolidation of the Reformation. }} * {{see | name=Former Great Forest Vigadó | alt=Nagyerdei Vigadó | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.551717 | long=21.629450 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is an old bath house, built in classic style, 1823-1826. Designed by Ferenc Povolny. Now a restaurant. }} * {{see | name=County Courthouse | alt=Megyei Bíróság, Debreceni Törvényszék | url=http://hbmbirosag.hu/Main/Hajdu.html | email=birosag@debrecenit.birosag.hu | address=Széchenyi u. 9/Simonffy u. 10. | lat=47.5281 | long=21.6220 | directions=Center - | phone=+36 52 526-710 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 347-139 | image=Megyei Bíróság, Debrecen 1.jpg | hours=W 08:00-15:00; M-Tu Th-F 09:00-11:00 | price= | content=Eclectic style. Built in 1890-1896. Designed by Gyula Wagner }} * {{see | name=County Hall | alt=Megyeháza | url=http://www.hbmo.hu/ | email= | address=Piac St., 54 | lat=47.52678 | long=21.62665 | directions=Szent Anna utca corner | phone=+36 52 507 524 | tollfree= | fax= | image=DebrecenDSCN3602.JPG | hours= | price= | content=Built in 1911, Art Nouveau style. Designed by Zoltán Bálint and Lajos Jámbor. Inside visible stained glass windows of the banquet hall, made by Károly Kernstok. }} * {{see | name=Former Financial Palace | alt=Pénzügyi Palota | url= | email= | address=Kossuth St., 12-14. | lat=47.52948 | long=21.62823 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Debrecen, egykori Pénzügyi Palota.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Designed by John Bobula. Built in eclectic style, 1912-1914 }} * {{see | name=Living House, former General Credit Bank | alt=Lakóház, volt Általános Hitelbank | url= | email= | address=Piac u. 45-47 | lat=47.52791 | long=21.62544 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Built in Modern style, 1937. Designed by Eugene Padányi Goulash. Its facade are four bronze statues by Alice Lux. Now there are Shops and a Fine Arts Studio. }} * {{see | name=Podmaniczky house | alt=Podmaniczky-ház | url= | email= | address=Széchenyi Str. 1 | lat=47.5289 | long=21.6245 | directions=Center | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This was a Tradesmen House. Built in classicist style, around 1820, later partly rebuilt. }} * {{see | name=Episcopal Office | alt=Püspöki Hivatal | url= | email= | address=Kálvin tér 17 | lat=47.53291 | long=21.62342 | directions=Next to University of Debrecen | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Múzeum utca 2, Debrecen.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Built in eclectic style, 1888 Designed and built by Károly Fischer. }} * {{see | name=Former Episcopal Palace | alt=Püspöki Palota | url= | email= | address=Hatvan Street, 1 | lat=47.5316 | long=21.6225 | directions=At the corner of Kossuth Square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Built in Art Nouveau style. Now there is Corso Bistro (Korzó Ételbár) }} * {{see | name=The Beerhouse | alt=Serház | url= | email= | address=Bem tér 2. | lat=47.54061 | long=21.62493 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=House, shop, former Beerhouse, classicist, 1820 }} * {{see | name=Former Queen of England accommodation | alt=volt Angol Királynő szálló | url=http://www.muemlekem.hu/muemlek?id=5244 | email= | address=Kossuth utca 19-21 | lat=47.52931 | long=21.62860 | directions=Opp. Csokonai Theatre | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Angol Királynő szálló.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Now this is a restaurant. It was the former Queen of England Hotel, built in early eclectic, in 1880 }} * {{see | name=Former Diószegi House | alt=volt Diószegi-ház | url= | email= | address=Széchenyi u. 6. | lat=47.5282 | long=21.6231 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The former chief justice's living house. Built in the 1690s. Rebuilt in Baroque style in the 18th century. Modified for Stores. }} * {{see | name=Former Little Debrecen restaurant | alt=volt Kisdebrecen vendéglő | url= | email= | address=Piac Str. 29/Halköz 4. | lat=47.52954 | long=21.62468 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Catering company, a restaurant, a former small restaurant in Debrecen, 17th century origin. Expanded and rebuilt in Baroque style, in 18th century. Highly modified. Now is apartman house, store, restaurant, shops. }} * {{see | name=Former Conservatory palace | alt=volt Zenede palota | url= | email= | address=Vár utca 1. | lat=47.53172 | long=21.62775 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Now Kodály music school, built in eclectic style, in 1894 }} * {{see | name=Susie Forest Railway | alt=Zsuzsi Erdei Vasút | url= | email= | address=Ady Endre St | lat=47.5527 | long=21.6354 | directions=ZOO area | phone=+36 52 310065 | tollfree= | fax= | image=A Debreceni Állatkert kisvonata 01.jpg | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Post Office Directorate | alt=Postaigazgatóság épülete | url= | email= | address=Hatvan u. 5-7. | lat=47.53139 | long=21.62174 | directions=Center | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Postaigazgatóság épülete (5229. számú műemlék).jpg | hours= | price= | content=Built in Eclectic style, 1929-31. Designed Munnich Aladar. }} * {{see | name=Old Town Hall | alt=Régi Városháza | url= | email= | address=Piac u. 20 | lat=47.5296 | long=21.6255 | directions=Center - Next to First Savings Bank of Debrecen - take a Tram to here | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Városi tanácsház (5257. számú műemlék).jpg | hours= | price= | content=Built in 1531 }} * {{see | name=The former Löfkovics Artúr shop | alt=Az egykori Löfkovics Artúr üzlet | url= | email= | address=Piac Str. 38 | lat=47.5275 | long=21.6263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In this building was 'Arthur Löfkovics watch and jewelry shop'. In 1902 the city gave his collections include archaeological finds and numismatic collection of Transylvania, thereby laying the foundations of the city museum. }} * {{see | name=Rickl-house | alt=Rickl-ház | url= | email= | address=Piac u. 39-41 | lat=47.52844 | long=21.62528 | directions=Center - Next to Csonka Church | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Protected building }} * {{see | name=Former Kaszanyitzky-house | alt=Kaszanyitzky-ház | url= | email= | address=Piac u. 57 | lat=47.52709 | long=21.62595 | directions=Center - | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Now there is a McDonald's }} * {{see | name=Csanak-house | alt=Csanak-ház | url= | email= | address=Piac Str.-Arany János Str. corner | lat=47.5273 | long=21.6258 | directions=Center - | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Further afield=== * {{see | name=[[Balmazújváros]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.614 | long=21.341 | directions=Near to Hortobagy, by bus (25 km, half hour, every hour until 23:00), by train (half hour, every two hours, Ft&nbsp;600) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Balmazújváros - Temples.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Balmazújváros is proud of its culture and traditions. The town keeps and cultivates its traditions, especially local folk crafts. Sights here:Local History Museum, Peter Veres Memorial Exhibition, Semsey Palace, Thermal Spa, Big Backpacks Natural park (Nagyháti park). }} * {{see | name=Berettyóújfalu | url=http://www.berettyoujfalu.hu/index.php?module=news&fname=turizmus2 | email= | address= | lat=47.221 | long=21.536 | directions=by train must to change at Püspökladány (ten+ per day, around one and half hour Ft&nbsp;1500-1900), by bus is better direct (37 km, half hourly until 20:00, an hour) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Berettyóújfalu-12.jpg | hours= | price= | content=– Broken Tower, [http://www.termalliget.hu/ Spa]. }} * {{see | name=Hajdúdorog | url=http://www.hajdudorog.hu/avaros/latnivalok | email= | address= | lat=47.818 | long=21.495 | directions=Train (40 km, every two hour, three-quarter hour, Ft&nbsp;750), by bus (25 km, less than one hour, every hour until 22:40) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Autumn Landscape of Hajdudorog.JPG | hours= | price= | content=[http://www.gorkatszekesegyhaz.hu/ Greek Catholic Cathedral] {{dead link|December 2020}} of the Presentation of Mary (Founded in 1764) symbolize here is the highest rate (over 80 percent) ,-of all Hungary,-who are Greek Catholic. Also here is an [http://strandfurdo.hajdudorog.hu/ outdoor bath]. }} * {{see | name=Hajdúnánás | alt= | url=http://www.hajdunanas.hu/ | email= | address= | lat=47.8441 | long=21.4295 | directions=By train 40 km, eight per day, an hour, Ft&nbsp;930; by bus 43 km, 13-20 per day, one hour. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Református templom légifotó, Hajdúnánás4.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Ostrich Farm. }} * {{see | name=Hajdúszoboszló | url=http://hajduszoboszlo.hu/ | email= | address= | lat=47.443639 | long=21.389522 | directions=19 km southwest of Debrecen, by train 15 mins, every half hour, Ft&nbsp;400-800, by bus half hour, 20-30 per day | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Greek Catholic Church, Hajdúszoboszló 06.JPG | hours= | price= | content=This is a very nice bath city, also excellent for a day trip. Remains of fort wall, Bell House, Europe's largest bath. }} * {{see | name=Monostorpályi | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.399 | long=21.774 | directions=By bus half hour plus, twenty-thirty per day. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Monostorpályi légifotó.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Reformed church and granary buildings (tubusmagtár) }} * {{see | name=Nagykereki | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.186 | long=21.792 | directions=Train (52 km, one hour+, nine per day, Ft&nbsp;1120), only one bus per day more than one and half hour journey | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Nagykereki légifotó.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Bocskai castle. }} * {{see | name=Nyíracsád | url=https://m.facebook.com/nyiracsad/ | email= | address= | lat=47.606 | long=21.972 | directions=By bus 35 km, 15-18 per day, one hour. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Kastélybuzita.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Reformed Church. }} * {{see | name=Püspökladány | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.324 | long=21.117 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Püspökladány vasútállomás.JPG | hours= | price= | content=St. Agatha bridge }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Csokonai Theatre | alt=Csokonai Színház | url=http://csokonaiszinhaz.hu/ | email=info@csokonaiszinhaz.hu | address=Kossuth Str. 10 | lat=47.52956 | long=21.62884 | directions=Center - | phone=+36 52 417 811 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 410-837 | hours=Cashdesk M-F 09:00-12:00, and 13:00-19:00 | price=From Ft&nbsp;1000 | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content= }} * {{do | name=Nagyerdő - The City Park | alt=Debreceni Nagyerdő Természetvédelmi terület | url=http://www.hnp.hu/78-8336.php | email= | address= | lat=47.568 | long=21.635 | directions=just north of the downtown | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=The 2280-hectare city park which offers fine walks as well as several opportunities for fun and entertainment. }} * '''Football:''' [https://dvsc.hu/ Debreceni VSC] play soccer in NB 1, the top tier. Their home ground Nagyerdei Stadion (capacity 20,340) is in Nagyerdő Park 2 km north of city centre. * {{do | name=Amusement Park | alt=Vidámpark | url= | email= | address=Ady Endre út 1 | lat=47.5519 | long=21.6327 | directions='Nagyerdő' | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Ft&nbsp;200 plus Ft&nbsp;300-400 per ride | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Not as large or impressive as the park in Budapest, but nevertheless boasts to be the largest such park this side of the Tisza. There are 15 rides including a fantasy castle, Ferris wheel, and a children's railroad. }} * {{do | name=Zoo | alt=Állatkert | url=http://www.zoodebrecen.hu/ | email= | address=Ady Endre út | lat=47.5524 | long=21.6349 | directions='Nagyerdő' | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 09:00-18:00 (smmer) | price=Ft&nbsp;1500 | lastedit=2013-07-24 | content=, together with the Vidámpark forms the Culture Park. }} * {{do | name=Aquaticum Termal bath | alt=Aquaticum Mediterrán Élményfürdő, Debreceni Gyógyfürdő | url=http://www.aquaticum.hu/ | email= | address=Nagyerdei Park 1 | lat=47.5519 | long=21.6288 | directions='Nagyerdő' | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 11:00-21:00, F-Su 10:00-21:00 | price=Two-hour tickets Ft&nbsp;5400, sauna Ft&nbsp;3000 | lastedit=2023-07-03 | content=With hot spring water, pools, and slides, it is obligatory to visit. It is open all year, and is the major resort of the town. It features a water park, public pool, bath house, hotel, and restaurants. }} * {{do | name=Skating Rink | alt=Műjégpálya | url=http://www.debrecenjegcsarnok.hu/ | email=info@debrecenjegcsarnok.hu | address=Derék Street, 33 | lat=47.5243 | long=21.5975 | directions=SW | phone=+36 52 537272 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 537273 | hours=Sa Su 09:00-11:30, 15:00-17:30, 18.00-20:30 | price=Ft&nbsp;1200 | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content= }} * {{do | name=Sport Complex | alt=Oláh Gábor utcai sporttelep | url=http://www.dbsportcentrum.hu/ | email= | address=Oláh Gábor utca 5 | lat=47.5500 | long=21.6379 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content= }} * {{do | name=Sport Swimming Pool | alt=Sportuszoda | url=http://www.sportuszoda.hu/ | email=info@sportuszoda.hu | address=Zákány utca 4 | lat=47.5464 | long=21.6384 | directions= | phone=+36 52 506676 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 06:00-22:00, Sa 08:00-20:00, Su 08:00-19:00 | price=Ft&nbsp;1340 | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=The swimming pool complex offers a long course (50 m) competition pool, a short course (25 m) training pool, a learner pool, a Jacuzzi, a Finnish sauna, and an outside thermal pool (34-36 Celsius). }} * {{do | name=Memorial Garden | alt=Emlékkert | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Botanical garden | alt=Botanikus kert | url=http://botkert.unideb.hu/ | email= | address=Móricz Zsigmond Rd | lat=47.5599 | long=21.6223 | directions=Take tram 1 | phone=+36 52 512900 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Arboretum Daily (Mar 21-Oct 20) 08:00-18:00, (Oct 21-Mar 20) 08:00-16:00, Orangery: M-Th 08:00-15:00, F 08:00-12:00. Weekends and holidays can not visit the greenhouses. | price=Ft&nbsp;550 | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content= }} * {{do | name=Grasslands with Forest | alt=Erdőspuszták | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.4822 | long=21.7143 | directions=SE 9 km | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Cemetery of heroes | alt=Hősök temetője | url= | email= | address=Bölcs utca 16 | lat=47.5385 | long=21.6062 | directions=NW | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Flower Carnival | alt=Virágkarnevál | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=20 August, every year there's a whole day of celebrating the summer and national holidays, with moving pictures or statues made of flowers, and lots of other mardi gras. }} * {{do | name=Military Band Festival | alt=Katonazenekari fesztivál | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Buy== ===Banks=== Exchanging money can be cheaper here than in Budapest. * {{buy | name=CIB Bank | url=http://www.cib.hu/index?defaultLanguage=english | email=debrecenunio@cib.hu | address=Piac u. 1−3. | lat=47.53157 | long=21.62328 | directions=Center | phone=+36 40 242242 | tollfree= | fax=+36 1 4896147 | hours=M-Th 08:00-18:00, F 08:00-16:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=ATM 24/7. }} * {{listing | type=buy | name=Commercial and Credit Bank | alt=Kereskedelmi és Hitelbank | url=https://www.kh.hu/publish/kh/en/products_services.html | email= | address=Kálvin tér 8 | lat=47.53287 | long=21.62599 | directions=Center | phone=+36 52 521 230, +36 1 3353355 (Tele Center 20 30 70 ) | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 521261 | hours=M 08:00-17:00, Tu-Th 08:00-16:00, F 08:00-15:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Erste Bank, Downtown branch | alt=Debrecen, Belvárosi Fiók | url=http://www.erstebank.hu/en/english | email= | address=Hatvan utca 1/B. first floor 9. | lat=47.53173 | long=21.62408 | directions=Center | phone=+36 40 222 222 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M 08:00-17:00, Tu-Th 08:00-16:00, F 08:00-15:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content= }} * {{listing | type=buy | name=OTP Bank | alt= | url=https://www.otpbank.hu/portal/hu/fooldal | email=Informacio@otpbank.hu | address=Piac u. 45-47 | lat=47.52771 | long=21.62555 | directions=Center | phone=+36 40 366388, +36 1 3666-388 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 457-077 | hours=M 07:45-18:00 Tu-Th 07:45-17:00, F 07:45-16:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Traded currencies: USD EUR, free WiFi; child- and wheelchair- friendly branch }} * {{listing | type=buy | name=MKB Bank | alt=Magyar Külkereskedelmi Bank | url=https://www.mkb.hu/lakossagi/hitelek/otthonfelujitas | email=info@mkb.hu | address=Vár utca 6/c | lat=47.53232 | long=21.626897 | directions=Center | phone=+36 52 528110, +36 1 3733333, +36 40 333666 | tollfree= | hours=M 08:00-17:30, Tu-Th 08:00-16:30, F 08:00-15:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Raiffeisen Bank | alt= | url=https://www.raiffeisen.hu/en/web/english/home | email=velemeny@raiffeisen.hu | address=Piac utca 18 | lat=47.52988 | long=21.62534 | directions=Center | phone= +36 40 484848, +36-1 4848484 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M Tu Th 08:00-16:00, W 08:00-17:30, F 08:00-15:30 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=ATM 24/7. }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Debrecen Plaza | url=http://debrecenplaza.hu/ | email=debrecenplaza@klepierre.com | address=Péterfia utca 18. | lat=47.5354 | long=21.6252 | directions=just north of the city centre and easily reached by tram #1 | phone=+36 52 456700 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Restaurants, cafes: Daily 10:00-22:00. Cinema: M-Sa 13:00-23:00, Su 10:00-23:00. Stores: M-Sa 09:00-20:00, Su 10:00-18:00. CBA supermarket M-Sa 07:00-20:00, Su 07:00-19:00. - Pharmacy M-F 08:00-20:00, Sa 09:00-20:00, Su 10:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Forum shopping mall | alt=Fórum üzletközpont | url=http://www.forumdebrecen.hu/ | email=info@forumdebrecen.hu | address=Csapó utca 30. | lat=47.53277 | long=21.62904 | directions=Center. - Take bus: 11, 15, 22, 24, 31, 43; tram 1 | phone=+36 52 598-800 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 598-801 | hours=Shopping center: M-Sa 08:00-21:00, Su 09:00-19:00. Shops: M-Sa 09:00-20:00, Su 10:00-18:00. Spar: M-Sa 08:00-20:00, Su 09:00-18:00. Parking 24/7 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=A newer mall just a block east of Debrecen Plaza. It also has a food court and many stores - being larger and more diverse than Debrecen Plaza. }} * {{buy | name=Délibáb shopping center | alt=Délibáb üzletház | url=http://www.delibabaruhaz.hu/ | email=info@delibabaruhaz.hu | address=Ötvenhatosok tere 6/a. | lat=47.54763 | long=21.61112 | directions=North | phone=+36 52 541710 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 541710 | hours=M-F 06:00-24:00, Sa 06:30-21:00, Su 07:30-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=National Tobacco Shop, Spar supermarket (M-F 06:30-20:00, Sa 06:30-18:00, Su 07:30-17:00), drugstore Markt, Chinese department store (men, women and kids fashion, accessories), Blue Rags fashion (Women's fashion retail) , Storage Box, Főnix Savings Bank, Rövidáru shop (women, men fashion), A Hundred Magic (chemicals, toiletries, household műanyagáru, kitchen and household equipment, sanitary paper products, gaming gifts, paper stationery, jewelry, decorative cosmetics.), Monique bags (bags, travelers, luggage, wallets umbrellas and accessories) , Office stationery (office equipment, stationery, forms, copying, black-and-white and color laser printing, scanning, laminating, custom gift cards, calendars, preparing leaflets, stamps), Services: Life Center, Cedar Health Centre, Beauty Salon Hairdressers, Cutler Gym (fitness room), Kulcsmásoló (key cutting, locks, inserts, locks), Órás (Watch repair and shop). }} * {{buy | name=Halköz shopping center | alt=Halköz üzletház | url=http://halkozuzlethaz.hu/ | email=info@halkozuzlethaz.hu | address=Simonffy u. 4-6 | lat=47.5293 | long=21.6239 | directions=Centre | phone=+36 20 8022248 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-18:00, Sa 9:00-13:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=High-Lander (Sport and Outdoor Clothing), Láng Sport (Nutrition), Nívó (Paper stationery), Civis Foto (Photo developing), CLC Debrecen (Christian Bookstore), Fok (Flag and Gift), Elyse ( Women fashion clothes), Ász Salátabár (cold dishes), Magild (Beauty Salon) , French Cosmetics, Hairdressing, Health shoemaker, Hungarian Automobile Club, Travel Agency, Computer shop, Tobacco shop. }} * {{buy | name=Jozsapark Mall | alt=Józsapark bevásárlóközpont | url=http://www.jozsapark.hu/ | email= | address=Szentgyörgyfalvi út 9. | lat=47.5954 | long=21.5787 | directions=N 5km, take bus #34, 34A, 35Y, 35A, 36, 36A | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:00-24:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Covered Market, Library of Debrecen, Tesco (daily 06:00-20:00), Dm drogerie market, Okula optics , 'Angol Turi' clothes discount, Medical Devices Specialist Store, Pharmacy, Dairy and Milk Products Shop, 'Magyar' Bakery, Hús-Hentesárú Butcher Shop, Fruit Market (vegetables and fruits), Tüzépker (fuel), Office stationery store, Maja (Flowers & Gifts), Chinese (convenience store), Kertészeti Áruda (Horticulture store), Jozsa Park Bookstore, Jozsa Discount (food), Hi-Fi and Computers, Fortuna (tobacco, Newspapers), Fény Világ (Natural Grocery Store), Furniture and Furnishings Salon , Best (Clothing). }} * {{buy | name=Malompark shopping center | alt=Malompark bevásárlóközpont | url=http://www.malompark.hu/ | email=info@malompark.hu | address=Füredi út 27 | lat=47.54194 | long=21.61831 | directions=N one km | phone=+36 52 483-080 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 745-605 | hours=Daily 06:00 - 23:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Caffé Piazza D'oro, Catana Gift Shop, Cortesi bakery, Digi Customer Service, Havrics Gallery, Inmedio Newspaper, International Spar Hypermarket, Chinese Department Store, Magnet - Fashion, Malom Jewelry, Malom Pharmacy, Malom Park GSM, Meglepy and Gift Shop, Mobile Shop (Grill Mobile), Northline Change currency exchange. - Malompark Two stores:Adria Food Bar, Active Fitness, Brendon Baby Store, DKV Customer Service, Kalácsoda (bakery), Magyar Posta, Mill Park Small Market, National Tobacco store, Opti Markt Optics. }} * {{buy | name=Park Center shopping park | alt=Park Center bevásárlópark | url=https://parkcenters.hu/bevasarlopark/debrecen/ | email= | address=Kishatár utca 9. | lat=47.5430 | long=21.5810 | directions=NW ~2km | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Charles Vögele, C & A (clothing store chain), KiK (textile discount), Humanic (shoes), DM - Drogerie Markt, Hervis (sport mode), Brixcity (LEGO store). }} ===Supermarkets=== * {{buy | name=Auchan hypermarket | alt=Auchan hipermarket | url=http://www.auchan.hu | email= | address=Kishatár utca 7 | lat=47.54277 | long=21.58113 | directions=NW | phone=+36 40 109010, +36 52 510500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 07:00-21:00, F-Sa 07:00-22:00, Su 07:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Delivery , photo developing. Around two dozens shops, restaurants, service units: Elektro Outlet, Jysk, Post Office (M-Sa 09:00-19:00, Su 09:00-13:00 and 13:30-18:00). }} * {{buy | name=Interspar hypermarket | alt=Interspar hipermarket | url=http://www.spar.hu/hu_HU/uzletek/interspar_hipermarket_debrecen_5060.html | email=info@spar.hu | address=Füredi út 27 | lat=47.5420 | long=21.6195 | directions=In the 'Malompark' Shopping Centre | phone=+36 20 823 8066 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 06:30-21.00, Su 08.00-19.00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Services: ATM, parking with 610 places. }} * {{buy | name=Aldi discount store | alt=Aldi diszkontáruház | url=https://www.aldi.hu | email= | address=Kishatár utca 9/a | lat=47.54324 | long=21.58106 | directions=NW two km | phone=+36 23 533 500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07.00-20.00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=2nd unit: Ozmán utca 1 }} * {{buy | name=CBA supermarket | alt=CBA szupermarket | url=http://www.cba.hu/ | email= | address=Péterfia utca 18 | lat=47.53493 | long=21.62545 | directions=in Debrecen Plaza | phone=+36 52 6041621 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 7.00-20.00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Other units Kossuth u. 15. tel:+36 52 532-987; Derék út 68/B; Ribizli Street. 34., tel: +36 52 411771. }} * {{buy | name=Coop supermarket No.3 | alt=Coop szupermarket | url=http://www.coop.hu/ | email= | address=Cimbalom Street. 1 | lat=47.5306 | long=21.5757 | directions=west 3 km | phone=+36 52 521221 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Many other locations. Teleki u. 8-10.; Piac u. 40. tel: 56 516626. }} * {{buy | name=Penny Market? | alt=Penny Market diszkontáruház | url=http://www.penny.hu/ | email=ugyfelszolgalat@penny.hu | address=Sámsoni út | lat=47.54874 | long=21.65895 | directions=Pázsit utca cnr. | phone=+36 29 339 300 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 07:00-21:00, Su 07:00-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=2nd unit: Vincellér utca. (open M-Sa 07:00-20:00, Su 07:00-20:00). }} * {{buy | name=Real discount store | alt=Reál diszkont | url=http://realrt.hu/ | email=mail@real.hu | address=Kossuth u. 43-47 | lat=47.52994 | long=21.63209 | directions=Center | phone=+36 30 343-5733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=More units: Balmazújvárosi út 10. Tel 52 540-442; Szent Anna u. 38. Tel: +36 20 4295539; Vár u. 3. Tel +36 52 534722; Petőfi tér 10. Tel +36 30 3833204; Gyergyó u. 8 Tel. +36 52 530-181; Mester u. 1. Tel +36 30 383-3204; and a [http://real.hu/vasarloknak/uzleteink/ dozen more]. }} * {{buy | name=Spar supermarket | alt=Spar szupermarket #960 | url=http://www.spar.hu/hu_HU/uzletek/spar_szupermarket_debrecen_960.html | email=info@spar.hu | address=Nagy Lajos király tér | lat=47.54591 | long=21.62182 | directions=North | phone=+36 20 8237987 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily M-Sa 06:30-21:00, Su 07:00-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=More units: Csapó utca 30, Ötvenhatosok tere 6/b, Somlyai út 3, Szentgyörgyfalvi út. }} ==Eat== There are lots of nice cafes near the Great Church. ===Budget=== ====In the city centre==== * {{eat | name=Blaháné Étterem | alt= | url= | email= | address=Blaháné u. 13 | lat=47.5309560 | long=21.6298632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} * {{eat | name=Himalája Gyros | alt= | url= | email= | address= Vár u. 10 | lat=47.5328131 | long= 21.6265604 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} * {{eat | name=Byblos Gyros | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bajcsy-Zsilinszky u. 1 | lat=47.5302789 | long=21.6238796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} * {{eat | name=Pizza Fortuna | alt= | url= | email= | address= Péterfia u. 42 | lat=47.5371092 | long= 21.6255100 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=}} ====Near the city centre==== * {{eat | name= Kínai Laci-Konyha| alt= | url= | email= | address= Arany János u. 28| lat=47.5262351 | long= 21.6224469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=A Chinese restaurant}} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Melange Étterem | alt= | url=http://www.melangekavehaz.hu/ | email= | address=Debrecen, Csapó u. 24 | lat=47.5318662| long= 21.6282345 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=A very fine restaurant with amazing decor. }} * {{eat | name=Csokonai Étterem | alt= | url=http://csokonaisorozo.hu/ | email= | address=Kossuth utca 21 | lat=47.529325 | long=21.628415 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Prices as of July 2014: Starters: Ft&nbsp;1,050-2990; Mexican dishes Ft&nbsp;1,850-2,190; soups Ft&nbsp;800-1300; poultry dishes Ft&nbsp;2090-2390; fish dishes Ft&nbsp;2500-3500; pork dishes Ft&nbsp;2090; beef dishes Ft&nbsp;2400-3000; noodles Ft&nbsp;1450-2450, pizzas dozen types Ft&nbsp;1090-1850 | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Main steak house of Hungarian style, on Kossuth street, right in front of Csokonai Szinház (opera house). }} * {{eat | name=Flaska Vendéglő | alt=Flaska Söröző | url=http://flaska.hu/ | email= | address=Miklós utca 4 | lat=47.526029 | long=21.625661 | directions=by the Apollo movie theatre | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Has nice Hungarian dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mandula Confectionary | alt= | url=https://kismandula.hu | email= | address=Ember Pál u. 23 | lat=47.546161 | long= 21.629410| directions= | phone=+36 (52) 345 360 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=One of the best bakeries in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kashmir Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.kashmirdebrecen.hu/ | email= | address=Thaly Kálmán utca 2 Péterfia street corner | lat=47.53715 | long=21.625581 | directions= | phone=+36 52 321 560 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Prices as of July 2018: Soups/appetisers Ft&nbsp;1200/1800, kebabs and platters Ft&nbsp;2100-4900, main courses Ft&nbsp;2600-3200, vegetarian dishes Ft&nbsp;1600-2000, seafood Ft&nbsp;4000-5500, sweets Ft&nbsp;800 | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Not too bad if you've never had Indian food before. For those who have, do not have high expectations, and be prepared to be paying over the odds for food which all seems to taste the same. }} * {{eat | name=Korzó Ételbár & pizzéria | alt= | url=http://www.ételrendelés-debrecen.hu/en/food-delivery/menu | email=korzorendeles@gmail.com | address=Hatvan utca 1 | lat=47.5319 | long=21.62351 | directions=This reastaurant is on the left side of the Great Church | phone=+36 670-2953439 | tollfree= | hours=09:00-23:00 | price=Ft&nbsp;1300-1900 (Jul 2018) | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Small fast food place. Quick, polite service. Cards accepted, English spoken, big terrace. }} * {{eat | name=Govinda Vegetarian Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.govindadebrecen.hu/ | email= | address=Magyari u. 2 | lat= 47.540126| long=21.640361 | directions= | phone=+36 30 372 9959 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= M-F 12:00-14:00, only open for lunch | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=A vegetarian restaurant and is the closest you can get in the city to homemade Indian cuisine. }} ===Splurge=== <br> ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Calico Jack Pub | alt= | url=https://calicojackpub.hu/ | email= | address=Bem tér 15 | lat=47.542398 | long=21.62253 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-24 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Palma Pub | alt= | url=http://www.palmapub.hu/ | email= | address= Simonyi út 44 | lat=47.548822 | long=21.62617 | directions=near the University | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-24 | content=Very popular with people visiting the town on business. Also here is offered a variety of European cuisines. }} * {{drink | name=Roncs | alt= | url=http://www.roncsbar.hu/ | email= | address=Csapó u. 27 | lat=47.531984 | long=21.626924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-24 | content=Wreck pub is nice for a drink. Really cool place. }} * Around {{marker|type=drink|lat=47.528964|long=21.62134|name=Hal köz}} (old fish market), near the main square, you can find good places. ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Hostel | alt=Debreceni Egyetem és a Kölcsey Ferenc Református Tanítóképző Főiskola Kossuth Lajos III. Kollégiuma | url= | email= | address=Egyetem tér 1 | lat=47.5516 | long=21.6214 | directions= | phone=+36 52 238500 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Reformed College | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kálvin tér 16. | lat=47.5331 | long=21.6237 | directions=Center | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Hostel }} * {{sleep | name=Dorcas Center & Camping | url=http://dorcas.hu/hu/kapcsolat/ | email= | address=Erdőspuszta | lat=47.449 | long=21.690 | directions=SE 6 km | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From Ft&nbsp;2000 p.p. | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Bungalow, motel, cottages, camping area. }} * {{sleep | name=Stop Pension | alt=Stop Panzio | url= | email=stoppanzio@vnet.hu | address=Batthyány utca 18 | lat=47.5281 | long=21.6279 | directions=in the centre, take a tram to stop County Hall and walk east to Mu-Terem Art Gallery turn north 100m | phone=+36 52 420301 | tollfree= | fax=+36 1 6901861 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Ft&nbsp;7100/9400 including all tax | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Calm and pleasant. }} *{{sleep | name=Cívis Grand Hotel Aranybika | alt= | url=https://www.hotelaranybika.com/index.php/en/ | email=info@hotelaranybika.com | address=Piac utca 11 | lat=47.5302 | long=21.6242 | directions= | phone=+36 20 3636121 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Ft&nbsp;14 000/16 000 | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=Next to the Reformed Cathedral. The present Art Nouveau building was built in 1915. }} *{{sleep | name=Centrum Hotel | alt=Cívis Hotel Kálvin | url=http://www.centrumhotel.hu/ | email=info@centrumhotel.hu | address=Kálvin tér 4 | lat=47.5326 | long=21.6254 | directions=North of the Great Church | phone=+36 52 418522, +36 52 525300 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 525301 | checkin= | checkout= | price=From Ft&nbsp;18 000 | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=In centre, near the Reformed College and the Great Calvinist Church. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Platán | alt= | url=http://www.platanhotel.eu/ | email=info@platanhotel.eu | address=Somlyai u. 10 | lat=47.50395 | long=21.63407 | directions=5 minutes from the town centre, near the airport: take bus 44 from Debrecen Railway Station | phone=+36 52 537700 | tollfree= | fax=+36 52 537 703 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single/double from Ft&nbsp;14 400/19 800 | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=A four-star hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Grand Forest | alt=Hotel Nagyerdő | url=https://www.hotelnagyerdo.hu | email= | address= Pallagi út 5 | lat=47.550527 | long=21.62868 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From Ft&nbsp;15 000 | lastedit=2018-07-24 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Sport Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.debrecenisporthotel.hu/ | email= | address=Olah Gabor St, 5 | lat=47.5494 | long=21.6361 | directions=right next to the DVSC stadium | phone=+36 52 514444 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Ft 20 500 single; 23 500 Ft double; one person apartment 26 000 Ft; 2 person apartment 29 000 Ft, City Tax: 400 Ft per night | lastedit=2014-07-24 | content=buffet breakfast 3,300 Ft, use of closed parking spaces and Internet access }} ==Connect== As of Sept 2021, Debrecen has 5G from Telecom, and 4G from DiGi, Telenor and Vodafone. WiFi is widely available in public places. ==Contact== * {{listing | name=Consulate General of Russia | alt=Orosz Föderáció Főkonzulátusa | url= https://debrecen.mid.ru/hu/ | email= | address=Arany János utca 1 | lat=47.5273 | long=21.6251 | directions=Center | phone=+36 52 536926 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Consulate-General of Russia in Debrecen.jpg | hours=M W F 09:00-12:00 | price= | lastedit=2018-07-24 | content= }} ==Go next== [[File:Tisza-tó.jpg|thumb|Lake Tisza]] [[File:Hortobagy híd.jpg|thumb|The Nine-holed Bridge, Hortobágy.]] * '''[[Eger]]''' &mdash; best known for its castle, thermal baths, historic buildings (including the northernmost Turkish minaret), dishes and red wines. * '''[[Hortobágy]]''' &mdash; excellent for a day trip. This is an 800 km² national park in Eastern Hungary, rich with folklore and cultural history. The park, a part of the Alföld (Great Plain), was designated as a national park in 1973 (the first in Hungary), and elected among the [[UNESCO#Hungary|UNESCO]] World Heritage sites in 1999. The Hortobágy is Hungary's largest protected area, and the largest semi-natural grassland in Europe. It used to be believed that this alkaline steppe was formed by the clear cutting of huge forests in the Middle Ages, followed by measures to control the course of the Tisza River, allegedly resulting in the soil's current structure and pH. However, Hortobágy is much older, with alkalinization estimated to have started ten thousand years ago, when the Tisza first found its way through the Great Hungarian Plain, cutting off many streams from their sources in the Northern Mountains. The formation was finished by grazing animals, mastodons, and wild horses during the Ice Age, followed by domesticated animals. The Nine-holed Bridge is a popular site. Traditional T-shaped sweep wells dot the landscape, as do the occasional mirage of trees shimmering in the reflected heat of the Puszta. * {{listing | name=Lake Tisza | alt=Tisza-tó | url=http://www.tiszato.hu/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Also known as Kisköre Reservoir (Hungarian: Kiskörei-víztározó). This is the largest artificial lake in Hungary. It is at the southeastern edge of Heves county. Following the reservoir's completion, Hungarians began to flock to the site for holidays, since it compared favorably with the crowded and expensive Lake Balaton, the traditional holiday site. As a result, tourist infrastructure has been developed on the reservoir—renamed Lake Tisza—and the government has designated it an official tourism destination. - The lake (or reservoir) has a new local ecology with a diversity of birds, plants, and animals. }} * '''[[Nyíregyháza]]''' &mdash; a smaller city with several parks and squares and the water resort of Sóstó. * '''[[Oradea]]''', [[Romania]] * '''[[Szerencs]]''' - famous all around Hungary for its chocolate and medieval castle {{routebox | image1=4 (Hu) Otszogletu zold tabla.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Nyíregyháza]] | minorl1= | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Békéscsaba]] | minorr1=Becomes [[File:47 (Hu) Otszogletu zold tabla.svg|18px]] | image2=471 (Hu) Otszogletu zold tabla.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=Füzesabony junction to [[File:M3 (Hu) Otszogletu kek tabla.svg|18px]] | minorl2=Becomes [[File:33 (Hu) Otszogletu zold tabla.svg|18px]] [[Hortobágy]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Mátészalka]] | minorr2=Nyírbátor | image3=35 (Hu) Otszogletu zold tabla.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=N | majorl3=[[Miskolc]] | minorl3=Nyékládháza junction to [[File:M30 (Hu) Otszogletu kek tabla.svg|18px]] | directionr3=S | majorr3=End | minorr3= }} {{geo|47.52997|21.63916}} {{IsPartOf|Hajdú-Bihar County}} {{usablecity}} ombdt1hdt8ebees393vxjo6jbnqfh4v 0 9913 5091127 5048346 2025-07-11T01:29:02Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Others */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091127 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Donetsk_WV_banner.jpg}} '''[http://www.donetskcity.com/ Donetsk]''' ([[Ukrainian phrasebook|Ukrainian]]: Донецьк, [[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]: Доне́цк) is a city in the [[Donetsk People's Republic]], on the banks of the River Kalmius. {{cautionbox|Information below is mostly outdated. Updated information is not available.| lastedit=2023-12-08}} ==Understand== [[File:Donetsk-Map2DownTown.jpg|300px|thumb|Donetsk centre map]] [[File:DonetskCathedral.jpg|200px|thumb|The reconstructed Cathedral Transfiguration of Jesus in Donetsk.]] Donetsk has a population of around a million people, making it the fifth largest city in [[Ukraine|the country]]. Donetsk is the unofficial capital of [[Eastern Ukraine|Donets Basin (''Donbass'') region]], the most industrialized part of the country, and as with the surrounding region, it is mostly populated by ethnic Russians, who consistently favour pro-Russian candidates in the elections. The swift development of Donetsk began in 1869 due to John Hughes, a [[Wales|Welsh]] businessman, who started to exploit the '''coal mines''' on what was then the southern reaches of the Russian Empire, and established the local '''steel industry''', founding "Yuzovka" (Hughes' village) . It was renamed "Stalino" and greatly expanded during the Soviet period. [[World War II]] shook the city hard, leaving it not much more than mounds of rubbles. After the war, the city was extensively rebuilt, losing its original layout and architecture reminiscent of British towns. After Stalin's death, it was as well renamed Donetsk. Donetsk's '''Donbass Arena''' was one of the venues for [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Euro 2012|UEFA Euro 2012]], the only European football championship that took place in Eastern Europe so far, which was jointly hosted by [[Poland]] and Ukraine. ===Climate=== Lying on the Eurasian steppe inland from the sea, Donetsk has a typical '''continental climate''': While temperatures lower than -30°C (-25°F) were recorded, a more realistic expectation from '''winter''' lows (Oct&ndash;May) would be -7°C (19°F). '''Summers''', on the other hand, can go up as much as 38°C (100°F), although expecting around 27°C (81°F) would be more typical. While spring and summer months (May&ndash;Jul) are statistically the wettest, '''rains''' are more or less evenly distributed throughout the year. But an average year sees about 492 mm (19.37 inches) of precipition anyway, which is about half of what is typical for oceanic climates common in northwestern [[Europe]]. ==Get in== Donetsk International airport was destroyed in the war in 2014. === By car === The drive from Kyiv can be 6-8 hours depending on how fast you drive, how many stops you make, etc. ===By bus=== * {{listing | name=Pivdennyi (Main) Bus station | alt=Автовокзал "Південний" | url= | email= | address=Kommunarov sq.(пл. Коммунаров), 4 | lat=47.99136 | long=37.79692 | directions=Buses41, 42, 50, 79, 90, 77, 73; Minibuses41Б, 42Г, 42В, 47, 53, 54, 76, 85, 9, 42А, 80, 43, 37, 25, 17; Trolleybuses17, 5, 9А to Stop «Площадь Коммунаров»; Trams3, 4, 5, 8, 13, 2 to Stop «Красноармейская» | phone=+380 62 2665119 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=To [[Kyiv]] 720 km (between 07:02-21:38) journey time 12 hr, 10-12 per day. To [[Poltava]] ~8 hr, 6 per day (between 14:09-20:30). To [[Dnipro]] ~5 hr, 20 per day (between 07:00-21:20). To Kherson ~12 hr, 10 per day (between 09:40-22:30). To [[Kharkiv]] ~6 hr, 7 per day, (between 06:15-15:30). To [[Luhansk]] ~3.5 hr, 8-12 per day (between 04:00-19:00). To [[Mariupol]] 320 km, 5-8 per day (between 09:40-22:30) 3 hr. To [[Simferopol]] 2-4 per day, ~9 hr. To [[Berdiansk]] (South) 10-14 per day, 3½ hr (between 07:40-22:00). phone +380 62 3866468, +380 62 3866507, +380 50-4771330 }} * {{listing | name=Tsentr Bus station| alt=Автостанція "Центр" | url= | email= | address=Vul. Pervomaiskaya, 4 | lat=47.98741 | long=37.79873 | directions=300 m south from the Main bus station, Minibuses 11, 18, 20, 20в, 26, 36, 9а (39), 41Б, 42Г, 42В, 44, 47, 49, 4, 53, 54, 76, 85, 9, 42А, 74, 38, 24Б, 80, 43, б/н (Центр - АШАН), Buses 41, 42, 50, 79, 90 to Stop «Центр» | phone=+380 62 3371573 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For local transport. }} * {{listing | name=Zaliznychnyi vokzal Bus station | alt=Автостанція Залізничний вокзал | url= | email= | address=Vul. Artemovskaya, 292 | lat=48.04487 | long=37.74465 | directions=at R.S., N 5 km from centre | phone=+380 62 3123238 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For local transport. }} * {{listing | name=Zakhidnyi (North) Bus station | alt=Автовокзал Західний, Донецк Западный | email= | address=Highway Krasnoarmeiskoe, 1| lat=48.04437 |long=37.69729 |directions=NW 7 km, Buses 10, 83; Minibus 6А Stop «По требованию»| phone=+380 62 3055287 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Secondary main station. }} * {{listing | name=Krytyi rynok Bus station | alt=Автостанція Критий ринок | url= | email= | address=Ave. Khmel'nitskogo Bogdana, 110| lat=48.01186 | long=37.81067| directions=Centre| phone=+380 62 3053031| fax=| hours= | price=| content=For suburban buses. }} * {{listing | name=Velyka Mahistralna Bus station | alt=Автостанция Велика Магістральна | url= | email= | address=St Bolshaya Magistralnaya, 39А | lat=47.96435 | long=37.92696 | directions=SE 7 km | phone=+380 62 2222181 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price= | content=For suburban buses. }} * {{listing | name=Motel Bus station | alt=Автостанція Мотель | url= | email= | address=Ave. Ilicha, 95A | lat=48.00463 | long=37.87022 | directions=E 3km | phone=+380 62 3480899 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=For suburbs buses. }} * {{listing | name=Pintera Bus station | alt=Автостанція Пінтера | url= | email= | address=Vul. Pintera, 28A | lat=47.94740 | long=37.70506 | directions=SW 4 km | phone=+380 62 3345901| fax= | hours= | content=Local buses }} * {{listing | name=Shyrokyi Bus station | alt=Автостанция Широкий | url= | email= | address=Str. Shutova, 28A | lat=47.94429 | long=37.76768| directions= | phone=+380 62 3853009 | fax=| hours=| content=For suburban buses. }} * {{listing | name=Shchetinina Bus station | alt=Автостанція Щетініна | url= | email= | address=Str. Shchetinina, 6А | lat=47.98110 | long=37.92512| directions= | phone=+380 62 3099346 | fax= | hours= | price=| content=For suburban buses. }} ===By train=== There is also a direct train once or twice a week from [[Almaty]] ([[Kazakhstan]]) via [[Atyrau]] and [[Volgograd]]. However, you will need at least a Russian transit visa, which is generally quite expensive. * {{go | name=Railway Station | alt=Железнодорожный вокзал | url=https://uz.gov.ua/passengers/ | email= | address=Sq. Pryvokzalna ( пл. Привокзальна), 3 | lat=48.04385 | long=37.74622 | directions=Tram 1, Trolleybus 2 to Stop «Железнодорожный вокзал» | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=To get to the commuter train station go out to the first platform and turn right, 100 m from there. To [[Kyiv]] 7 hours, 06:24*, 16:43*, 19:16, 19:41 -*Intercity trains via [[Poltava]] US$35 2nd cl. seat, US$51 1st cl. - non IC's journey time ~16-17 hours via Poltava or ~12h via [[Dnipro]]. To [[Kharkiv]] ~4-6 hours, 6-8 per day, (between 10:24-22:29). To [[Luhansk]] ~3½ hours, 1-2 per day, 04:55 & 17:02. To [[Mariupol]] 1-2 per day, 06:17 & 23:57 3 hours. To [[Simferopol]] 07:21 ~7½ hours && 23:37 ~13 hours. To [[Berdiansk]] (South)12:40 7 hours. To [[Melitopol]]-Pas 12:40 ~8½ hours. }} ===Cash desks=== * {{listing | name=Pilot Travel agency | alt=Агентство Пілот | url=http://www.pilot.ua | email= | address=Bul. Shevchenko, 13А | lat=48.00848 | long=37.8104 | directions= | phone=+380 62 3817782 | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Cash desk }} * {{listing | name=Halopom po Yevropakh | alt=Турагенція Галопом по Європах | url=http://www.galopom.com.ua | email= | address=Vul. Cheliuskintsev, 151 | lat=48.00419 | long=37.80917 | directions=| phone=+380 62 3457548 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Transport tickets }} * {{listing | name=Poehali s nami | alt=Туристичне агентство Поїхали з нами | url=http://www.poehalisnami.ua | email= | address= Oreshkova ln., 18 | lat=48.00885 | long=37.79716 | directions=Trolleybuses18, 10, 9А, 5, 14, 17, Minibuses26, 25, 17, 37, Buses10, 73, 77 to Stop «Бульвар Шевченко»| phone=+380 62 3484850 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Transport tickets }} * {{listing | name=Roial Voiazh (Royal Voyage) Travel agency | alt=Туристична фірма Роял Вояж | url=http://www.royal-voyage.com {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Vul. Artema, 143A | lat=48.01570 | long=37.80553| directions= | phone=+380 62 304-0493| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Buy transport ticket. Cash desk +380 62 304-7953 }} * {{listing | name=TASS Travel agency | alt=Компанія ТАСС Тревел | url=http://www.tasstravel.com.ua | email=| address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), 64 | lat=47.99694 | long=37.80422 | directions=Centre| phone=+380 62 3051078 | fax=| hours= | price= | content=Cash desk for tickets, phone=+380 62 3490509 }} ==Get around== {{Mapframe|48.02221|37.78303|zoom=12|height=540|width=520}} ===Public transportation=== Public transportation is cheap but can be crowded. Be prepared to stand up most of the time, and you may have to make waves when you want to get out. There are four main types: the trolleybus, bus, tram and [[Ukraine#Marshrutka|minibuses (''marshrutki'')]]. Trams and buses will get you just about anywhere in the city for a fixed price for as long as you want to be on the tram or bus. Tickets are to be bought from the conductor, which is on board of every tram and bus. At the central market there is one of the many depots. These forms of transport stop at every stop on the route. ===Semi-public transportation (minibuses)=== The minibuses (singular ''marshrutka'', plural ''marshrutki'') operated by non-municipal companies can be found throughout the city. They are like the buses, but faster, smaller, and they stop on request. If you are on board you must yell to the driver that you want out at the next stop, and if you are waiting for one, you must flag it down. Depending on the driver, these can get very crowded. ===Taxi=== Most tourists find the taxi to be their best option. Taxi cabs are on every corner and they are relatively cheap. There are numerous dispatch taxi services. For example, 381-0000 or 0-67. Keep your eyes open for more numbers, usually printed on the side of the cab in large font. Also, on the first ride in the taxi, ask the driver if he would like to drive you around on a regular basis. Usually, they will be delighted to do so and give you their ID number for dispatch (''pozivnoi'') or their cell phone so you can call him directly. That way, you can have a chauffeur for the time of your stay. ==See== ===Holy places=== * {{see | name=Ahat Cami Mosque |alt=Мечеть Ахать Джамі | url= | email= | address=Prospekt Marshala Zhukova, 1 |lat=48.05339 |long=37.71965 | directions=1.2 km NW from R.S.| phone=| hours= | price=| content= A congregational mosque was named in honor of Akhat Bragin and one of its minarets is named after Rinat Akhmetov. It is the first mosque that was built in Donets basin since the fall of the Soviet Union. In 1993 in the Donetsk Muslim community established Star of the Prophet. One year later the foundation was laid for the region's first mosque - Ibn Fadlan. The plans for the project were taken from one of Istanbul’s mosques. The main sponsor for the building was Akhat Bragin. After his death on October 15, 1995 the mosque was named in his honor. On the first floor of the mosque is Ukrainian Islamic University, the first Muslim institution of higher education in Ukraine. The official opening of the Ahat Cami mosque and Ukrainian Islamic University was held on September 3, 1999. }} * {{see | name=Roman Catholic church of parish of St. Joseph | alt=Римско-католический костёл парафии Святого Иосифа | url= | email= | address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), 193A | lat=48.03777 | long=37.76602 | directions=Kyivskyi district, | phone=+380 62 2577874 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Orgona Concerts. In 2006 the first divine service took place in the Roman Catholic church of Donetsk. It is the first Catholic church in Donetsk. A temple, built at an assistance the Catholics of Poland and Germany, was named the name of Christ Reigning. In 2012, the Donbass region has 8 Roman Catholic churches. }} * {{see | name=Svyato-Iverskiy Ukrainian Orthodox Nunnery | alt=Свято-Иверский женский монастырь | url=https://iver-mon.ru/ | email=ortodox.donbass@gmail.com | address=Vul. Stratonavtiv (Стратонавтов вул), 153 | lat=48.05976 | long=37.74712 | directions=Trolleybus 10, Bus 10, 83 to Stop «Переулок Воскресенский» | phone=+380 6234 58714 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Opened in 2001 at a temple in honor the Iverskoy icon of the Mother of God as the court of St. Mykolskiy convent. The monastery keeps a list Iverskoy icon of the Mother of God, which was written on Mount Athos, by a Russian monk, in Yanysom Panteleymonova monastery. This icon was in six different churches every place took a religious procession. Monastery parts are the St. Yverskoho church with a bell tower, a nursing corps and business buildings. Also in the monastery is the orchard and berries, the plants was donation from the Donetsk Botanical Garden. }} * {{see | name=Temple of the Exaltation of the Cross | alt=Крестовоздвиженский храм | url= | email=| address=Vul. Gornaya (Вул. Горная), 11 | lat=48.03996 | long=37.74737| directions=300 m from R.S.| phone= | fax= | hours= | price=| content=Patronal Feast every September 27 }} * {{see | name=Sviato-Voskresens'kyi temple | alt=Свято-Воскресенский храм | url= | email= | address=Sq. Shakhterskaya (Шахтёрская Площадь)| lat=48.03742 | long=37.78329 | directions=Minibuses38Б, 46Б, Bus 2, Trolleybus 2 to Stop «"Шахтерские ряды"»| phone=+380 62 3057730 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Since 2005 working, made by a joint-stock Mine Company donation, the golden-domed Holy Resurrection Cathedral. Also here is the Saint Barbara chapel (built in memory of the lost miners). }} ===Others=== * {{see | name=Forged Figures Park | alt=Park kovanykh figur, Парк кованных фигур |url=|email=|address=Vul. Universitetska (Університетська вулиця)|lat=48.0162| long=37.800|directions=near the city hall; trolleybus 9, 10 to stop ''Prospect Vatutina'', ''Izumrud'' (lines 8 (terminus), 9, 10), or bus 2 to ''Belyi Lebed''.| phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=| content=Forged Figures Park was opened in 2001 and is one-in-a-kind object. International Smithcraft Festival takes place in the park every year. The most impressive masterworks remain in the city as a gift expanding the number of park’s “residents” - These sculptural compositions, more than 160 sculptures, forged from a metal. In 2002 in a park set 2 arbours. In 2004 in a park set «Arbour of falling in love». In 2005 in a park an alley appeared «Signs of zodiac». In 2009 an alley is opened to the favourite city. }} * {{see | name=Kyivskyi district Court | alt=Київський районний суд | url= | email= | address=Vul. Sobinova, 147 | lat=48.05573 | long=37.78207 | directions=N 9km | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kyivskyi district State Administration | alt=Київська районна адміністрація | url= | email= | address=Prosp. Kievskii, 36 | lat=48.04864 | long=37.77781| directions=| phone=+380 62 3056228 | hours= | price=| content= }} * {{see | name=Donetsk Appellate Commercial Court|alt=Донецький апеляційний господарський суд| url= |email=| address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), 157|lat=48.02754|long=37.79477| directions= | phone=+380 62 3325700| fax=| hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see |name=Ekspodonbass Exhibition center | alt=Выставочный центр Эксподонбасс| url=http://www.expoua.com |email= |address=Vul. Cheliuskintsev, 189 B |lat=48.02524 |long=37.80487| directions=| phone=+380 62 3812102|hours= | price=| content=One of the largest exhibition centers in Ukraine. Annually 20 exhibitions are held in the center, including international ones. }} * {{see |name=Regional State Administration|alt=Областная госадминистрация|url= |email= | address=Bul. Pushkina, 34 |lat=48.00874|long=37.79971|directions=|phone=+380 62 3351366 | fax=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{see | name=Kuibyshev district court|alt=Куйбишевський районний суд |url= |email= | address=Vul. Sokolina (Вул. Соколина), 1|lat=48.00605|long=37.77593|directions=| phone=| fax= | hours= | price= | content=}} * {{see |name=Donetsk railway Museum|alt=Музей історії і розвитку Донецької залізниці | url=https://www.railway.dn.ua| email=| address=Vul. Artemovska (Вул. Артемівська), | lat=48.04373 | long=37.74414| directions=At the railway station| phone=+380 62 3192212|fax= | hours= | price=| content=More than 2000 exhibits are presented, including documents, rewards, forms of clothes, railway instrument and equipment, old pictures and other collection material. }} * {{see | name=Journalists and writers Monument | alt=Памятник журналистам и писателям | url= | email= | address=Vul. Poligraficheska | lat=48.05188 | long=37.77686 | directions=N 5.3km, Bus 19А, 10, 83, 73, Minibuses 19, 5, 25, 17, Trolleybuses18, 10, 9А to Stop Poligraficheskaya («Полиграфическая») | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An honour for journalists and writers, whose lost in Great Patriotic War. }} * {{see | name=Mother Monument | alt=Памятник матери | url= | email= | address=Prospekt Panfilova, 15a | lat=48.02221 | long=37.78303 | directions=Bus 30; Minibuses 23, 100 to Stop Stomatologya («Стоматология») | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It is a unique monument, devoted to a woman-mother on the territory of Ukraine. A woman's sculpture standing in complete growth & holds a little child on hands. A height of the sculpture is 2 m. }} * {{see | name=Student Monument| alt=Памятник студенту | url= | email= | address=Prospekt Vatutina, 1A | lat=48.01488 | long=37.78928| directions=NW 1 km, in the yard of the Faculty of Economics and Law, Donetsk National University; Minibuses19, 25, 17, 37; Trolleybuses 18, 10, 9А, 5, 17; Buses 10, 73, 77 to Stop Prospekt Vatutina («Проспект Ватутина»)| phone=| fax= | hours= | price=| content=The monument is a bench on which stands a student sculpture in full size. The Student relies on the bench hand and knee. }} * {{see | name=Zoia Kosmodemianska Monument | alt=Памятник Зое Космодемьянской | url= | email=| address=Levitskogo str. | lat=48.02615 | long=37.79578| directions=At school #54; Bus 2, Trolleybus 2 to Panfilova («Проспект Панфилова»)| phone= | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=About a young communist who died in Moscow in the Second World War. }} * {{see |name=Degtyarevu Vladimiru Ivanovichu Monument|alt=Памятник Дегтяреву Владимиру Ивановичу |url= |email=|address=Vul. Artemovska (Вул. Артемівська),|lat= |long= | directions=at the general school #54,| phone= | fax=| hours=|price=| content=Degtyarev was the first secretary of the Donetsk regional committee of communist party of Ukraine from 1953 to 1975. During his guidance, becoming of Donetsk happened as a large modern city. }} * {{see | name=Palm of Mertsalov|alt=Скульптура Пальма Мерцалова|url=|email=|address=Vul. Cheliuskintsev (вул. Челюскінців), 189A |lat=48.0256|long=37.8068 |directions=near the exhibition center Expo-Donbass | phone=| hours=|price=|content=-Forged from a rail at the end of 19th century made by blacksmith Alexei Ivanovich - Mertsalovi, awarded at the Paris International Industrial Fair 1900 Grand Prix prize. Depicted on the arms of Donetsk region. A public image of Donbass. There is a project to install copies of the Palm Mertsalova in the capitals of major countries. In 1999 in Donetsk in the area was deployed first copy Mertsalova palm covered with a glass cap, its height is 420 cm. }} * {{see | name=Yosyp Kobzon Monument| alt=Памятник Иосифу Кобзону|url= |email=|address=Ave. Titova Germana|lat= | long= |directions=Near to Yunist Palace| fax= | hours= |price= | content=Opening of monument is timed to the day of city. A monument is a 2-m, pour-off from a bronze. Sculpture of singer represented afoot with the overcoat thrown on shoulders, in opinion of townspeople, illustrates popular in our edge miner's song "Went out in steppe Donetsk fellow of young". Kobzon during all creative activity. }} * {{see |name=Breaking crutches|alt=Pamyatnik Gurovu, Памятник Ломающий костыли|url=| address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), ~80 |lat=48.0049|long=37.8038|directions=At an entrance in the Donetsk regional traumatology hospital|hours=| content=Original sculpture from a bronze in human growth - contribution of high confession of art of surgeons, returning a health to the people, to gettings into trouble. }} * {{see | name=Interdonbas gallery|alt=Галерея Інтердонбас |url= |email=| address=Pr. Hermana Tytova, 8B |lat=48.0227|long=37.8033| directions=| phone=+380 62 3119929| fax=|hours= |price=| content=Organization of exhibitions, fairs, presentations is conducted in the galleries of Interdonbass; marketings services. +phone=+380 62 3813121 }} * {{see |name=Bubka S.N. Monument|alt=Памятник Бубке С.Н.|url= |address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), ~147|lat=48.021|long=37.805| directions=near Olimpiis'kyi stadium| content=Monument in honour the Olympic champion, prominent sportsman, setting 35-m records in pole vaults Sergey Nazarovicha Bubki. }} * {{see | name=Artem (F.A.Sergeevu) Monument|alt=Памятник Артему (Ф.А.Сергееву)|url= | email=| address=Ave Mira and Vul. Artema corner|lat=48.0175|long=37.8026|directions=| content=Usually written as "Artem (Sergeev)", it is a statue of the Russian revolutionary, Ukrainian and Soviet political figure, founder of the Donetsk-Krivorozhskoy republics. This imposing six-metre statue on Artema Street is a tribute to one of the Soviet Union’s most celebrated politicians. A pedestal is executed from granite. A monument is a bronze sculpture of Artem in complete growth. Weight of sculpture 16 tons. A general height of monument is 10.5 m. }} * {{see |name=Tsar Pushka (A tsarist cannon)|alt=Скульптура Царь-пушка|url= |email=| address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), 98|lat=48.0167|long=37.8022 |directions=| phone= | content= Copy of sight of Moscow Kremlin of car-pushki, made in 1586 Russian master by Andrey Chokhovym. Weight is 44 tons, one kernel are 120 kg. A copy made at the Izhevskom metallurgical plant. }} * {{see | name=Bokhum of bell Copy| alt=Копия Бохумского колокола | url= | email= | address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), ~98| lat=48.0162|long=37.8022 | directions=near the building of administration of Donetsk city |hours= | price=| content=In 1997 was complemented with the copy of bell sister city of Bokhuma - to Donetsk }} * {{see |name=John James Hughes Monument | alt=Pamyatnik Dzhonu Yuzu, Памятник Джону Джеймсу Юзу |url=| address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), ~96| lat=48.0138| long=37.8019 | directions=in the Voroshilov district |content=John James was a Welsh industrialist, founder Yuzovky (modern Donetsk). the third school buildings Donetsk National Technical University and the library profession can symbolize John skid control - British engineer of the plant. The monument cast in the central mechanical repair workshops and established on September 2001. The monument stands on a low pedestal, actually in human height. }} * {{see |name=Monument to the teachers, pupils at Donetsk polytechnic institute|alt=Pamyatnik prepodavatelyam i studentam, Памятник преподавателям, воспитанникам Донецкого политех. института| url=http://voda.dn.ua|address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), ~94|lat=48.0126 | long=37.8019 |directions=|content= There is inscription on a monument : «Eternal glory to the teachers, students, employees of the Donetsk polytechnic institute, to falling in Great Patriotic war 1941-1945» }} * {{see |name=Beatles Monument| alt=Памятник британской рок-группе Битлз|url= |email=| address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), 131 |lat=48.0125|long=37.8031 |directions=| phone= |hours= | price=| content= The Beatles brought in a monumental contribution to development of popular music, attaining unprecedented popularity. Figures approximately 2 m, and represent musicians during a concert. }} * {{see | name=Monument to the Lost Warriors-Afghan|alt=Памятник погибшим воинам-афганцам | url=| address=Leninskyi Komsomol Park center|lat=48.0213|long=37.8121|directions=| content=Sculptural composition in honour the lost warriors-afghan from the Donetsk area. A monument is a sculpture of fighter on the block of stone, which symbolizes the rocks of Afghanistan. Round a block 36 memorial plaques are located with the 254 last names of lost and the area of quiet which is formed a park is selected. }} * {{see | name=To the city liberators |alt=Монумент Освободителям Донбасса |url= | address=Leninskyi Komsomol Park eastern part| lat=48.0220| long=37.8172 |directions=|content= Greatest on a size monument on south-east Ukraine. It is sculptural composition - miner, soldier with a colour and row of stel. }} * {{see |name=Mikhail Archangel Monument|alt=Памятник архангелу Михаилу|url=| address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема),|lat=48.0105 |long=37.8043|directions=At an entrance in Sviato-Preobrazhens'kyi cathedral.|content=A sculpture is a figure of archangel as thin youth in complete growth, dressed in the long blown about cloak. In a right arm for an archangel sword, and in left is a shield. }} * {{see | name=Sviato-Preobrazhens'kyi orthodox Cathedral | alt=Свято-Преображенский кафедральный собор | url= | email= | address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), 129 | lat=48.0105 | long=37.8055 | directions=Tram 1, 6 to stop 'rynok Tsentralnyi' | phone=+380 62 3377180, +380 62 3377188 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Adopted in honour the Christian holiday of Transforming Lord, which is celebrated on August 19. The first wood church was sanctified in 1886. }} * {{see | name=Shevchenko T.G. | alt= Памятник Шевченко | url=| address=Artema str.84 | lat= | long= | directions=near the Krups'ka Library|content= the first printing book, going out in Donetsk after October, was "Kobza-player", published in 1920 in Mariupol. }} * {{see |name=Regional art museum|alt=Областной художественный музей|url= |email=|address=(Пушкіна бульв.), 35|lat=48.0084|long=37.8022|directions=|phone=+380 62 3042205 | fax=| hours= | price=| content=A museum has in the collection more than 11 thousand works of painting, graphic arts, sculpture and decorative-applied art. Works of the most known masters of 16—20th centuries, and also antiquities are presented in this collection.+phone=+380 62 3048303 }} * {{see | name=Krupska scientific library |alt=Донецкая Областная Универсальная Научная Библиотека имени Н.К. Крупской| url=http://www.don.ua {{dead link|December 2020}}|email=|address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), 84 |lat=48.0082|long=37.8037|directions=|phone=|fax=|hours= |price=| content=Reconstructed in 1956. Building has on facades bas-reliefs of writers-classics of sculptor N.Ginzburga. }} * {{see | name=Solovyanenko Anatoliy Borisovich Monument| alt=Памятник Соловьяненко Анатолию Борисовичу |url=|email=|address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), 82|lat=48.006|long=37.8031 |directions=Near to the Opera & Balet Theatre|phone= |hours=|price= | content=Solov'yanenko is an opera tenor, folk artist of the USSR. A monument is a sculpture of Alexandra Solovyanenko in complete growth}} * {{see |name=Teatralna Square |alt=Ukrainian: Театральна площа, Theatre Square|url=| email=| address=at the junction of Avenue Theatre and Artema Street|lat= |long= | directions=in Voroshilovskyi District| phone=|content=The square is named after the theatre situated there — Donetsk State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre Solovyanenko. The square is served by numerous marshrutkas, buses and trolley-buses. Attractions > Donetsk State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre Solovyanenko, Cinema Shevchenko, Monument Gurov, Monument Grinkevich, Monument Solovyanenko, Scythian track & Dwelling houses. }} * {{see |name=F.A.Grinkevich Monument|alt=Памятник Ф.А.Гринкевичу|url= |address=Public garden of Teatralna ploscha|lat= | long= |directions= |content=A battle tank is set he on the grave of colonel F. A. Grinkevicha. The grave appeared high granit pedestal }} * {{see | name=Rivers of Donbass Monument | alt=Скульптура-фонтан "Реки Донбасса"|url= | address=Bul. Pushkina (Пушкіна бульв.), ~29|lat=48.0052| long=37.8016 |directions=| content= A sculpture is a cossack boat made from the zincked steel. A sail at a boat is executed as wings. A boat is in a small pool with a mini-waterfall. On the sides of boat the names of the largest rivers of the Donetsk area are written. }} * {{see | name=V. I. Lenin Monument|alt=Памятник В. И. Ленину|url= |email=| address=Sq. Lenina (Леніна пл.)| lat=48.0036|long=37.8051 |directions=|phone=|hours= |price=|content=A monument is devoted the creator of Communist Party of Soviet Union and Soviet state, first chairman to Vladimir Ilichu Lenin. Sculptor was E. Kuncevich. }} * {{see | name=Pushkin Monument|alt=Памятник Пушкину А.С.|url=|address=Bul. Pushkina (бульвар Пушкіна), 16|lat=48.0022 |long=37.8006|directions=|content=A monument is a bronze bust. On the right side of pedestal Pushkin and dates of his life is located facsimile. Opening of monument was timed to the 170th year from the day of birth of poet and 100year of Donetsk.}} * {{see | name=Building Ministries of coal industry|alt=Byvshee Ministerstvo ugolnoy promyshlennosti, Здание Министерства угольной промышленности| url= |email=| address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), 97|lat=47.9997|long=37.8054 | directions=| phone=| content=A main facade is a portico with ten columns of classic style. An attika level crowns building with the developed cornice and deaf parapet. A socle facing the polished granite.}} ==Do== ===Parks=== * {{do | name=Istoki Kalmiusa (Kalmius Source) Nature Monument | alt=Памятник природы Истоки Кальмиуса | url= | email= | address=Yasynuvatskyi (Ясиноватский) suburb | lat=48.09664 | long=37.86384 | directions=15 km NE, from Yasynuvatskyi bus station 2 km south| phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=| content= Source of Kalmiusa is a place, where ten of springs origin, being one of which is the headwaters of Kal'mius. }} * {{do | name=Donetsk minizoo | alt=Донецький мінізоопарк | url=http://www.minizoo.donetsk.ua | email=| address=Bakhchisaraiskaya str., 1 | lat= | long= | directions=8km N, Kyivskyi district, | phone=+380 62 2073811| fax= | hours= | price=| content=Exotic zoons are presented in a mini-zoo: napaceous, snakes, lizards, amphibians, beetles, palochniki, mantis, cockroaches, spiders and other. }} * {{do | name=Glade of fairy-tales | alt=Поляна казок | url=http://annet.dn.ua/donetsk/polyana-skazok/ {{dead link|December 2020}} |address=Baidukova st | lat=48.02361 | long=37.81356| directions= | price=| content=Tourist place. In the Lenin Komsomol Culture and Rest Park, Open air Sculpture Collection}} * {{do | name= Ukraine National academy botanical garden | alt=Донецький ботанічний сад Національної академії наук України | url=http://www.dbs.dn.ua | email= | address=Il'icha ave., 104 | lat=48.00381 | long=37.86893 | directions= | phone=+380 62 2941280 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=262.2 ha. There about 5,500 types of plants sprout on his territory. Structurally a garden is separate on four departments: dendrology and floriculture; mobilizations of vegetable resources; flora.}} * {{do | name=Ukrainskyi steppe Sculpture Park | alt=Парк скульптур Український степ | url= | email=| address=Pushkina blvd | lat=47.99833 | long=37.80117| directions=Centre | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=| content=Here are 11 sculptures. Made from the Crimean limestone (some sculptures are carved from oak) and are single and group compositions of people, beasts, and also sculpture-abstraction.}} * {{do | name=Park Shcherbakova | alt=Парк Щербакова | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.99506 | long=37.79076 | directions= | phone=+380 622 665 054 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 12ː00-20ː00, Sa Su 10ː00-21ː00 | price= | lastedit=2020-11-07 | content=Parkland alongside a lagoon with views of the city skyline, fountains, and rides that look like they're about to fall apart. }} ===Sport=== * {{do | name=Lokomotyv Swimming pool | alt=Дворец спорта Локомотив | url= | email= | address=Str. Artema, 147 | lat=48.02119 | long=37.80180 | directions=N 6 km | phone=+380 62 3193143| hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Donbass Arena or Donbas Arena | alt=Донбас Арена, Донбасс Арена | url= | email=| address= | lat=48.02125 | long=37.81016| directions=| phone= | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content= A stadium with a natural grass pitch in Donetsk, Ukraine that opened in 2009. The facility is in the center of the city, in the Lenin Comsomol park. With a capacity of 52,518 spectators, the Stadium hosts FC Shakhtar Donetsk matches and hosted some matches of Euro 2012. It is also one of the popular nightlife spots in Donetsk. The soaring roof effect makes the Stadium resemble a flying saucer. The stadium has an oval shape and a glazed façade and is located near Regional Sport Complex Olimpiyskiy. The roof of the stadium slopes from north to south matching the landscape and contributing to the natural lighting and airing of the pitch. The external lighting makes the Stadium shine at night. }} * {{do | image= | name=Druzhba Arena | alt=Палац спорту Дружба | url=http://druzhba.dn.ua/en/ | email=| address=Prospect Ilyicha 93 | lat=48.00121| long=37.84473| directions=| phone= | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=An indoor arena in Donetsk, built in 1975, by a standard design (dated 1956), with a seating capacity of 4,700 people for sporting events and 5,100 for concerts. The Palace was reconstructed in 2010 in order to host the 2011 IIHF World Junior Championships, during the renovation facade of the building was updated, the facility was equipped with modern freezing system, the stands capacity was increased to 4,000 spectators from 3,500. }} * {{do | name=Swimming pool of the Donetsk national technical university | alt=Бассейн Донецкого национального технического университета | url= | email= | address=Artema str., 58 | lat=47.99542 | long=37.80420 | directions=Centre | phone=+380 62 3054451 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{do | name=Kirovets' Swimming pool | alt=Бассейн Кировец | url= | email= | address=Kirova str., 149A | lat=47.96574 | long=37.73113 | directions= | phone=+380 62 2770693, +380 62 2770643| hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Yunist Sport Palace | alt=Дворец спорта Юность | url= | email= | address=Cheliuskintsev str., 189 | lat=48.02390 | long=37.80701| directions= | phone=+380 62 3110855| fax= | hours= | price= | content=Swimming pool }} * {{do | name=Aquapark | alt=Donetsk Aquapark "Royal Marine" | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in Scherbakova Park | phone= | hours= | price=| content=This was opened in early winter 2012. This is one of the top aquaparks in Europe. The free-standing dome, made with OpenAire’s exclusive, maintenance-free aluminium truss structure, will be 26-m high with a diameter of 85m, and feature a unique retractable design that slides open in a smooth rotating motion, opening up to 50% of the structure to sunlight and fresh air. The 0.5-ha Aquatoria, slated to become the largest retractable aluminium-domed indoor waterpark in the world. }} ===Theatres=== * {{do | name=City house of creativity Concert hall | alt=Міський будинок творчості | url= | email=| address=Osvobozhdeniya Donbassa ave., 9 | lat=48.02161 | long=37.79418| directions=| phone=+380 62 3113252 | fax=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{do | name=Horkoho Culture Palace| alt=Палац культури ім. А.М.Горького | url= | email= | address= Kievskii ave., 15 | lat=48.04515 | long=37.78004| directions= | phone=+380 62 2589691| fax= | hours= | price= | content=Concert hall }} * {{do | name=Donetsk Workers Cultura House | alt=Донецький будинок працівників культури | url= | email=| address=Artema str., 84A | lat=48.00931 | long=37.80333 | directions=| phone=+380 62 3049315| fax=| hours= | price=| content=Concert hall }} * {{do | name=Solov'yanenko Opera and Ballet Theater | alt=Донецкий академический государственный театр оперы и балета им. А.Б. Соловьяненко| url= | email=| address=Artema str., 82 | lat=48.00609 | long=37.80318 | directions=| phone=+380 62 3046019| fax=| hours= | price=| content= 1941 }} * {{do | name=Children and teenagers Palace | alt=Донецький обласний палац дитячої та юнацької творчості | url= | email= | address=Artema str.,46 | lat=47.99243 | long=37.80427| directions=Centre | phone=+380 62 3358932 | fax=| hours= | price= | content=}} * {{do | name=I.Franko Culture Palace | alt=Палац культури ім. І.Я.Франко | url= | email= | address=Kirova str., 145 | lat=47.96261 | long=37.73336 | directions=| phone=+380 62 2770286 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Concert hall }} * {{do | name=A.S.Pushkin Culture Palace | alt=Палац культури ім. А.С.Пушкіна | url= | email=| address= Oktyabrya str., 10+ | lat=47.96333 | long=37.87724 | directions= | phone=+380 62 20323593| fax=| hours= | price= | content=Concert hall }} * {{do | name=Yuvileyny Concert hall| alt=Палац культури Ювілейний | url= | email= | address= Bol'shaya Magistral'naya str., 29А | lat=47.96761 | long=37.92871 | directions=| phone=+380 62 3161116 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Academic musical-dramatic theater | alt=Академический музыкально-драматический театр | url= | email=| address=Artema str., 74A | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=A theater except for a stage part is executed as an ancient Greek temple. A main facade with the six clonnad portico of corinth style is turned toward an area, the second facade goes out on boulevard of Pushkin. Visual hall has got 942 places. During the reconstruction of theater in 2000, it was decided to set the sculpture of muse of tragedy Melpomena from ancient Greek mythology. It is represented with a palm branch in hands. }} * {{do | name=Solov'yanenko Donetsk Academic State Opera & Balet | alt=Здание театра оперы и балета им. В. Соловьяненко | url= | email= | address=Artema str., 82 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Built in 1936, the theatre, is a gem of a theatre with an elegant exterior and world-class performances inside. Donetsk is the home to the Donetsk Ballet company since 1946. In 1992 the Choreographic School, was established in the Theater. Architecture is decided in classic style. The theatre building was designed for drama theatre, construction works started in 1936. Ludwig Kotovskiy was the leading architect and overall management of construction project was scheduled by Solomon Krol'. The theater building is made in classic style. On three sides approaches to the theater are organized. The auditorium and the lobby are decorated with stucco details. The auditorium was designed for 1300 seats; it now has 976. Above the mezzanine and balcony of the auditorium, as well as in some niches of the foyer there are sculptural busts of composers, poets and decorative vases. The theater is equipped with mechanized stage, the main stage area is 560 m². It can withstand the load of up to 75 tons. Facades and interiors are distinguished by rich plastic expressiveness, a visual hall and lobby is decorated the sculptured details. Very beautiful visual hall with an enormous crystal chandelier, hanging dress-circle and balconies. Above a dress-circle and balconies of visual hall the busts of prominent composers and poets are set. }} * {{do | name=Shevchenko cinema | alt=Театр кіно ім. Т.Г. Шевченка | url= | email= | address=Artema str., 123 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+380 62 3373158 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This movie theater was one of the first in Soviet Union multihall movie theaters. He went down in memory many the presence of cloak-room. On September 5, 1939, this temple of arts accepted the first audience. The main facade of movie theater has the arched loggia in two floors high. To the reconstruction disposed three halls on a 1400 audience. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Paduano-arte, gallery | alt=Салон-галерея Paduano-arte | url=http://paduano.com.ua {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Pushkina blvd., 30 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+380 62 3054137 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It is the exclusive representative of network of galleries of prominent Italian galerista Antonio Paduano. 2000 m². Leader of salon, Karachanskiy Konstantin Edward, during three years personally mastered gallery business in the province of Naples. }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Metro Cash & Carry Supermarket, Shopping centre | alt=Торговый центр "Metro Cash & Carry" | url=http://www.metro.ua | email= | address=Vzletnaya str., 9 | lat=48.06550 | long=37.74675 | directions=N 9km; Minibus 25 to Stop «ТЦ "МЕТРО"» | phone=+380 62 340-0902 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Putylovski shopping arcade| alt=Рынок Путиловские торговые ряды | url= | email= | address=Partizanskii ave., 39 | lat=48.06007 | long=37.78213 | directions=N 10 km | phone=+380 622 576329 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Maiak Shopping centre | alt=Торговельний центр "Маяк" | url= | email= | address=Artema str.,160 | lat=48.03738 | long=37.77290| directions=Kyivskyi district, | phone=+380 62 258-3694 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{buy | name=Sievier Plaza Shopping centre | alt=Торговый центр Север Плаза | url= | email= | address=Str. Artema, 169 | lat=48.03857 | long=37.78213 | directions=Kyivskyi district, N 8 km| phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Donetsk-City Shopping centre | alt=Торгово-розважальний центр Донецьк-Сіті | url=http://doncity.com.ua | email= | address=Artema str., 130 | lat=48.03110 | long=37.78799| directions=Kyivskyi district, N 7.5 km, near the Old Planetarium | phone=+380 62 206-6100 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Akvarel Shopping centre | alt=Торговый центр Акварель | url= | email= | address=Str. Artema, 120А | lat=48.03013 | long=37.78898| directions=N 7km | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Amstor | alt=Торгівельний центр Амстор | url=https://amstor.com.ua/ru/ | email= | address=Str.Universitetskaya, 80A | lat=48.02286 | long=37.79363 | directions=N 6 km | phone=+380 62 210406 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Other units: - Str. Sokolinaya, 38. +380 62 348-89-82. Str. Zemlyanskaya, 10B, +phone=+380 62 389-18-57. }} * {{buy | name=Dytiachyi svit Shopping centre | alt=Торгівельний центр Дитячий світ | url= | email=| address=Str. Artema, 147V | lat=48.02282 | long=37.79957| directions=N 6 km | phone= | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Kids stuffs}} * {{buy | name=Bilyi Lebid Shopping centre | alt=Торговый центр Белый Лебедь | url= | email= | address=Artema str., 143 | lat=48.01617 | long=37.80504 | directions= | phone=+380 62 3813094 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Now the center is represented by five floors and a ground parking spaces designed for 400. The total area ​​4.7 ha. On the ground floor is a Boom «Бум» supermarket. The following three stories are shops for everyday, sport or formal wear and stylish shoes. There is a large amount of gift &jewelry stores. On the second floor there is a store of household appliances and "Foxtrot" «Фокстрот» electornic store and in the neighboring wing of an elite beauty salon Sh & Co. On the fourth floor trading facility and other sports accessories, massage chairs, and furniture. Top floor center for children. This 3 000 m² is the "Plastylyn (Clay)" «Пластилін» children's entertainment complex. Here is also store for office products. }} * {{buy | name=Maidan Shopping centre | alt=Торгівельний центр Майдан | url= | email= | address=Gorkogo str., 148A | lat=48.00302 | long=37.80666 | directions=| phone= | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{buy | name=Landorra Shopping House | alt=Торговый дом Ландорра | url=http://www.landorra.dn.ua | email= | address=Ilicha ave., 13 | lat=48.00165 | long=37.81126 | directions=| phone=+380 62 3340440 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Green Plaza Shopping centre | alt=ТРЦ Green Plaza | url=http://green-plaza.com.ua | email= | address=Artema str.,51A | lat=47.99221 | long=37.80481 | directions=Centre| phone=+380 62 2065206 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{buy | name=Planeta Shopping centre | alt=Торговый центр Планета | url= | email= | address=Artema str., 50A | lat=47.99317 | long=37.80407| directions=| phone=+380 62 3872056, +380 62 3872058 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{buy | name=Yuzovskyi passage Shopping centre | alt=Торговый центр Юзовский пассаж | url= | email=| address=Kommunarov sq., 1 | lat=47.99159 | long=37.79930 | directions= | phone=+380 62 3052537 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{buy | name=Donbas Department store | alt=Універмаг"Донбас" | url= | email=| address=Str. Kuibysheva, 21 | lat=47.99459 | long=37.76828 | directions=| phone=+380 62 2038496, +380 62 2532687 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Merkurii Market | alt=Рынок Меркурий | url= | email=| address=Pintera str., 15 | lat=47.94754 | long=37.70279| directions=| phone=+380 622 770214 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content= }} ===Markets=== * {{buy | name=Putylovskiy Market | alt=Рынок "Путиловский" | url= | email= | address=Partyzanskyi Ave., 82 | lat=48.05918 | long=37.77837 | directions=N 10km | phone=+380 62 3122060 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Tsentralnyi Market | alt=Рынок Центральный | url= | email= | address=Shevchenko blvd., 6B | lat=48.01037 | long=37.80924 | directions= | phone=+380 62 3377217 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Pokrovskyi Market | alt=Рынок Покровский | url= | email=| address=Krasnogvardeiskii ave.,3A | lat=48.01066 | long=37.86636 | directions= | phone=+380 62 3828264| tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Schetynyna Market | alt=Рынок Щетинина | url= | email= | address=Shchetinina str., 23 | lat=47.97868 | long=37.92735| directions= | phone=+380 62 2224179 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Volna Shopping centre | alt=Торговый комплекс Волна | url= | email= | address=Str. Kuibysheva, 217A | lat=48.03234 | long=37.75059 | directions= | phone=+380 62 3862676 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{buy | name=Azotnyi Market | alt=Рынок Азотный | url= | email=| address=60-letiya SSSR str., 24 | lat=48.00825 | long=37.73510| directions=| phone=+380 62 2536942 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=}} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Eli-peli Restaurant | alt=Ресторан японской и итальянской кухни Ели-пели | url= | email= | address=Kievskii, 46, | lat=48.05132 | long=37.77752| directions=N 8km | phone=+380 62 3879405| fax=| hours= | price=| content= Japanese & Italian cuisine, free Wi-Fi }} * {{eat | name=Sely zely | alt=Ресторан быстрого питания Сели съели | url= | email= | address=Krasnoarmeiskaya str., 74 | lat=47.99243 | long=37.80080| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Fast Food}} There are various restaurants in or around the centre of the city: *{{drink | name=E-moe | alt=Ethnic restaurant | url=https://www.facebook.com/Emoe.Restaurant/ | email= | address=15d, Ilyicha ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+380 62 3859568 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Gourmands start their familiarity with the restaurant from the chef's proposals, the aesthetes prefer the interior, the first thing evaluated by creative people is the genuine original atmosphere of the new institution. }} * {{eat | name=McDonald's | alt=Ресторан Макдональдз | url=http://www.mcdonalds.ua | email= | address=Blvd. Shevchenko, 6B | lat=48.01003 | long=37.80916 | directions=at the Tsentralnyi Market| phone=+380 62 3325514 | fax= | hours= | price=| content=Fast food, Wi-Fi. Other unit Str. Postysheva, 119 phone +380 62 332-55-50 }} * {{eat | name=Ukrainske bistro | alt=Украинское бистро | url= | email=| address=Str. Artema, 145A | lat=48.01778 | long=37.80330 | directions=| phone=+380 62 3813384 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=| content=Fast food.}} *Legenda - Russian cuisine *Tequila Boom - A Mexican restaurant *Shato - Russian cuisine *Marakesh - A Moroccan restaurant *Netske - A Chinese restaurant *Tri Tolstjaka - Western style restaurant *Yakitoriya - Sushi bar *Latin Quarter - Western style restaurant ==Drink== *{{drink | name=Bar Strike | url= | email= | address=14A Mira Avenue | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+380 62 381-4700 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= A wide range of appetizers, drinks and cocktails to suit any taste. (Billiards Bar, Hotel Bar) }} * {{drink | name=Svoi Sport bar | alt=Спортивный бар Свой | url= | email= | address=Str. Universitetskaya,76 | lat=48.02163 | long=37.79581 | directions= | phone=+380 62 3813202 | fax=| hours= | price=| content=Free Wi-Fi }} * Liverpool Live Music Bar in Liverpool Hotel * The Golden Lion - an Irish pub ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=The Red Cat hostel|alt= |url=http://theredcathostel.com.ua/ |email= | address=Mira Avenue building 3, flat 1 |lat=48.33597|long=39.93332 |directions=| phone=| fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=| content=}} * {{sleep | name=Victoria Hotel | alt=Готельний комплекс Victoria | url=http://donbasshotels.ru/ | email= | address=Ave. Mira, 14A | lat=48.01794 | long=37.81497 | directions= | phone=+380 62 3814747, +380 62 3814777 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Swimming pool. }} * {{sleep | name=Ekonom | alt=Економ | url=http://hotel-econom.com.ua/ | email= | address=50-richchya SRSR St, 144/4 | lat=48.00755 | long=37.81160 | directions= | phone=+380 50 331 7686 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$8 | lastedit=2020-11-07 | content=Basic but clean and comfortable lodging if you don't mind sharing a toilet. }} * {{sleep | name=Donbass Palace Hotel | alt=Готель "Донбасс Палас" | url=https://vk.com/donbasspalace_donetsk | email= | address=Vul. Artema (Вул. Артема), 80 | lat=48.0038 | long=37.8038 | directions= | phone=+380 62 3434333 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tourist information center, Wi-Fi. In 2004 a hotel was opened as an elite five-star hotel «Donbass Palas». A hotel consists of 129 numbers, three restaurants, conference halls, also exist a representative floor on which is located 20 presidential numbers. }} * {{sleep | name=Atlas Hotel | alt=Гостиница Атлас Донецк | url=http://hotel.atlas-donetsk.com/ | email= | address=Shevchenka Blvd, 20 | lat=48.00952 | long=37.81732 | directions= | phone=+380 6238 87879 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$42 | lastedit=2020-11-07 | content=Formerly a Ramada, it offers pretty contemporary lodging. }} ==Connect== ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Головпоштамт | alt=Central Post Office | url= | email= | address=Artema str., 72 | lat=48.00083 | long=37.80352 | directions=Centre | phone=+380 62 335-80-15 | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{listing | name=Post-office #8 | alt=Поштове відділення №8 | url= | email= | address=60-letiya SSSR str., 10 | lat=48.00807 | long=37.73757 | directions= | phone=+380 62 2532745 | hours= | price=| content=}} * {{listing | name=Post-office #12 | alt=Поштове відділення №12 | url= | email= | address=Kuibysheva str., 211 | lat=48.03234 | long=37.75059 | directions=N 8 km | phone=+380 62 2533505| hours= | price=| content=}} * {{listing | name=Post-office #18 | alt=Поштове відділення №18 | url= | email= | address=Artema str., 282 | lat=48.04214 | long=37.74840 | directions=near R.S. | phone=+380 62 3123621 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Post-office #37 | alt=Поштове відділення №37 | url= | email=| address=Kirova str., 113 | lat=47.96289 | long=37.74046 | directions=| phone=+380 62 2771654 | hours= | price= | content=}} * {{listing | name=Post-office #30 | alt=Поштове відділення №30 | url= | email=| address=Str. Oktyabrya, 22 | lat=47.96039 | long=37.88189| directions=| phone=| hours= | price= | content=}} * {{listing | name=Post-office #74| alt=Поштове відділення №74 | url= | email=| address=Zver'kova str., 69| lat=47.96545 | long=37.92058 | directions=| phone=| hours= | price= | content=}} * {{listing | name=Post-office #76 | alt=Поштове відділення №76 | url= | email= | address=Krasnogvardeiskii ave., 12 | lat=48.00810 | long=37.86517| directions= | phone=+380 62 2945128| hours= | price=| content=}} * {{listing | name=Post-office #86 | alt=Поштове відділення №86 | url= | email= | address=Artema str., 45 | lat=47.99145 | long=37.80479 | directions= | phone=+380 62 3054444 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Post-office #87 | alt=Поштове відділення №87|url= |email=| address=Ofitserskii ave., 69B|lat=48.01213 |long=37.76891| directions=| phone=+380 62 2532335 |hours= | price=| content=}} ===Internet=== * {{listing | name=Krupskaya Regional Universal Scientific Library | alt=Донецкая областная универсальная научная библиотека им. Н.К. Крупской | url=http://lib-dpr.ru/ | email= | address=Artema str., 84 | lat=48.00816 | long=37.80383 | directions= | phone=+380 62 3350179 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Diplomatic missions=== * Armenia, Honorary Consulate (Почётное консульство "Армении"). Lazarenko str., 45. +380 623 35-97-19 * Austria, Honorary Consulate. Artema str., 131. +380 62 381-08-72, +380 62 381-76-50 * Belarus, Honorary Consulate (Почётное консульство "Беларуси"). Il'icha ave., 15. +380 62 345-51-45 * Germany, Consulate General (Генеральне консульство Німеччини в Донецьку). Mira ave., 15 (office 71), +380 62 3434547, +380 62 3434548, http://www.donezk.diplo.de, Centre * Slovakia, Honorary Consulate. (Почесне консульство Словаччини в Донецькій області) Shevchenko blvd., 3. +380 62 345-36-69 ==Go next== [[File:Ніжний ранковий світло.jpg|thumb|National park "Sviati Hory" (Holy Mountains), Donetsk Oblast]] * '''[[Dnipro]]''' - 250 km to west. It has one of the world's longest downtown river promenades, about 5 km long. * '''[[Kharkiv]]''' - 290 km to northwest. The 'other' 20th-century Ukrainian capital. * '''[[Luhansk]]''' - 155 km to east. * '''[[Mariupol]]''' - 100 km to south. Visit the Azov Sea's biggest port town with a couple museums and city beach * {{listing | name=Sviatohirsk | alt=(Ukrainian: Святогі́рськ) or Svyatogorsk (Святого́рск) | url=https://svyatogorsk.dn.ua/ | email= | address= | lat=49.03383 | long=37.55754 | directions=30 km north from the town of Sloviansk, from Donetsk 145 km north | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It includes the Holy Assumption Sviatohirsk Lavra, the Holy Mountains National Park, an historical and architectural reserve, as well as a resort of national importance; thirty objects, among them a monumental sculpture of Artem and a World War II memorial are included in the historic monuments complex of the reserve. }} {{usablecity}} {{geo|48.002778|37.805278}} {{isPartOf|Donetsk Oblast}} 800bx9z1l7f31i2lk4f5r5layapa6ua 0 10501 5091128 5088423 2025-07-11T01:29:48Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Get around */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091128 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mjosbrua banner.jpg|caption=Bridge across lake Mjøsa}} '''East Norway''' (Norwegian: ''Østlandet'') is a region in south-eastern [[Norway]], which contains the capital [[Oslo]], as well as half of the country's 5 million inhabitants. From the central lowlands around Oslo, Oslofjord and lake Mjøsa long valleys cut into the uplands and high mountains until the watershed with Trøndelag and West Norway. East Norway is home to Norway's biggest lakes and rivers, widest forests and highest mountains. The pleasant climate and gentle coastline of Oslofjord is a fascinating contrast to the high mountains. Most foreign visitors to Norway arrive in East Norway. ==Understand== [[File:Slidrefjorden.jpg|thumb|Slidre lake in the Valdres uplands]] This region has about half of Norway's population including the larger Oslo metropolitan area. Locally known as Østlandet (or Austlandet), literally "the east country", it is defined by the border with [[Sweden]] and mountain ranges creating watersheds with Trøndelag and Western Norway. East Norway includes the densely populated lowlands around Oslofjord (and lake Mjøsa) and the more sparsely populated valleys, forests and highlands in the hinterland. The most populated lowlands/flatlands are greater Oslo, around Oslofjord and around lake Mjøsa, informally referred to as Central East Norway - this area is home to well over ⅓ of the people of Norway. ===Landscape=== A number of long valleys (notably [[Gudbrandsdalen]], [[Valdres]], Østerdal and [[Hallingdal]]) and rivers converge in the lowlands around Oslo. Oslo itself is separated from these rivers and valleys by forests and hills known as Oslomarka (the Oslo woodlands). Areas around Oslofjord and lake Mjøsa are mostly lowlands or flatlands, while upstream along the big valleys and rivers the gently rolling landscape gradually gives way to steep hills, barren highlands (such as [[Hardangervidda]]) and alpine summits such as [[Jotunheimen]]. These valleys also host transport corridors (rail and road) to West Norway and [[Trøndelag]]. Western parts of Telemark, Buskerud and Oppland are part of the central mountains/highlands, while northern parts of Oppland and Hedemark includes wide mountain areas such as Reinheimen, [[Dovrefjell]] and [[Rondane]]. These mountain areas separate East Norway from West Norway and Trøndelag, and is a major transport barrier particularly in winter. These mountains create Norway's main watershed as well as a crucial weather divide. Climate differs notably and there can be great differs in weather between valleys on either side of the watershed within few kilometers, particularly in winter. East Norway is home to a large number of lakes, including several of Norway's largest, and Norway's biggest rivers. The shores of southern Oslofjord with myriads of polished islands and bays are popular summer resorts for city residents. Topographically large parts of East Norway is more connected to Sweden than to the rest of Norway: There are no high mountains or similar great barriers along the border. ===Climate=== [[File:Tjøme Lilleskagen badestrand.JPG|thumb|Typical "svaberg" (polished cliffs) at Tjøme, a popular summer resort.]] The interior of Eastern Norway generally enjoys relatively dry almost continental climate (warm summers and cold winters). Winters can be bitterly cold in the interior with January average around minus 10° C in the inner valleys and temperatures can occasionally drop below minus 30° C in the coldest areas. Closer to Oslofjord the winters are milder, although temperatures below minus 10° C are common in Oslo, and summers are slightly warmer in sheltered valleys. Large parts of East Norway enjoys the rain shadow created by the central mountains, and some of East Norway gets less than 300 mm precipitation annually - which is less than Madrid and in fact some of the places with least in Europe. Thanks to modest temperatures and big rivers flowing from glaciers these inner valleys stay green. On warm summer days there can be afternoon showers and in the interior valleys summer months (June to August) are the rainiest, although summers are slightly drier than in Oslo. Around Oslofjord spring and early summer is the driest season, and most rain falls September-November. The eastern interior has the consistently warmest summers in Norway, notably lower valleys of Buskerud and Telemark. Vestfold and Østfold (the areas around outer Oslofjord) has the most sunshine. Weather forecasting Norway is generally very reliable 3 days in advance and quite reliable 7-10 days in advance. Forecasts in summer are generally less precise with regard to rain and clouds. ==Regions== {{mapframe|staticmap=EastNorway.png}} {{Regionlist | region2name=[[Buskerud]] | region2color=#b383b3 | region2description=Buskerud county stretches from the urban and agricultural lowlands at Oslos western suburbs through great valleys to popular ski resorts and the barren Hardangervidda. | region3name=[[Hedmark]] | region3color=#ac5c91 | region3description=The landlocked county in East Norway's deep interior, great valleys, rivers and forests | region4name=[[Oppland]] | region4color=#d56d76 | region4description=From lakes and lowlands to uplands and the highest mountains in Scandinavia. | region5name=[[Oslo region]] | region5color=#578e86 | region5description=Norway's capital and the surrounding region, with about ¼ of Norway's population. | region6name=[[Østfold]] | region6color=#71b37b | region6description=Lowlands east of Oslofjord | region7name=[[Telemark]] | region7color=#d09440 | region7description=From urban lowlands through green valleys to rugged highlands - a mini-Norway. | region8name=[[Vestfold]] | region8color=#d5dc76 | region8description=Lowlands west of Oslofjord }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b383b3|title=[[Buskerud]]|wikidata=Q50618|stroke-opacity=0.1}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#ac5c91|title=[[Hedmark]]|wikidata=Q50616|stroke-opacity=0.1}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d56d76|title=[[Oppland]]|wikidata=Q50617|stroke-opacity=0.1}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#578e86|title=[[Oslo region]]|wikidata=Q585, Q50615|stroke-opacity=0.1}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Østfold]]|wikidata=Q50614|stroke-opacity=0.1}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d09440|title=[[Telemark]]|wikidata=Q2254|stroke-opacity=0.1}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5dc76|title=[[Vestfold]]|wikidata=Q50619|stroke-opacity=0.1}} ==Cities== [[File:2.10-old town fredrikstad.jpg|thumb|Fredrikstad old town is a fortress at the big river.]] *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Oslo]]|wikidata=Q585}} – the Norwegian capital; the demographic, economic and logistical centre for East Norway *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Drammen]]|wikidata=Q26525}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fredrikstad]]|wikidata=Q107135}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Gjøvik]]|wikidata=Q108031}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Grenland]]|wikidata=Q1545695}} - district in [[Telemark]] **{{marker|type=city|name=[[Langesund]]|wikidata=Q1805211}} **{{marker|type=city|name=[[Porsgrunn]]|wikidata=Q2290}} **{{marker|type=city|name=[[Skien]]|wikidata=Q2272}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hamar]]|wikidata=Q104400}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Lillehammer]]|wikidata=Q101341}} – the 1994 Winter Olympic venue and gate to [[Gudbrandsdalen]] ==Towns== [[File:Hemsedal skisenter.jpg|thumb|[[Hemsedal]] ski slopes.]] *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Drøbak]]|wikidata=Q995477}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hønefoss]]|wikidata=Q865925}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kongsberg]]|wikidata=Q108988}} - silver mines and alpine ski slopes *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Larvik]]|wikidata=Q156125}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Notodden]]|wikidata=Q2326}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rjukan]]|wikidata=Q991201}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Sandefjord]]|wikidata=Q109005}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tønsberg]]|wikidata=Q107392}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Halden]]|wikidata=Q109042}} ==Other destinations== [[File:Krøderen Rv7.JPG|thumb|Krøderen lake with road 7 at the entrance to Hallingdal]] *{{marker|name=[[Trysil]]|wikidata=Q48529}} – Norway's largest ski resort *{{marker|name=[[Gudbrandsdalen]]|wikidata=Q1292655}} - the great central valley from lowlands at Lillehammer to the highest mountains *{{marker|name=[[Hallingdal]]|wikidata=Q1571743}} - a major valley from fertile lowlands at Drammen into [[Hardangervidda]] *{{marker|name=[[Jotunheimen]]|wikidata=Q588281}} - Scandinavia's highest mountains *{{marker|name=[[Rondane]]|wikidata=Q955861}} - Mountain range and Norway's first national park *{{marker|name=[[Dovrefjell]]|wikidata=Q2100974}} - Mountain range and high plateau *{{marker|name=[[Valdres]]|wikidata=Q1354236}} - picturesque highlands, lakes and valleys beneath Jotunheimen *{{marker|name=[[Hardangervidda]]|wikidata=Q1585051}} – Europe's largest highland plateau * {{marker|name=[[Gardermoen]]|wikidata=Q210559}} - Oslo International Airport, main entry point for overseas visitors and hub for domestic flights ==Talk== Most people will respond in English to any question you may have. Some Norwegians also speak some German, due to the proximity of the language, and that they study it in school. Migrant workers from Sweden, Poland, and elsewhere may not even speak Norwegian. === Norwegian === Those interested in dialects can observe the diversity of Norwegian dialects spoken in Eastern Norway, especially the differences between urban areas and peripheries. The differences can be observed even if you do not understand Norwegian. There are differences in the tone of language and words used. Even within the capital, Oslo, there are dialect differences between the east end and west end. In some inland municipalities, a written form of Norwegian usually associated with [[West Norway]] known as ''Nynorsk'' is the official form. ==Get in== In Norway, transport is a key part of the trip and best way to do sightseeing. Visitors should consider scenic routes and not merely the fastest and most convenient transport. ===By boat=== [[File:Bygdøy frå danskebåten.jpg|thumb|Arriving by ferry along the Oslofjord.]] Norway is separated from Denmark by the Skagerrak waters that merges with Oslofjord between Strömstad and Telemark. * Oslo is connected to Kiel and Copenhagen by ferries. The ferry from Kiel (''kielferga'') in particular is an effective way of skipping the less interesting transport leg through Sweden and is overnight with a fine arrival along Oslofjord in the morning. The ferry from Copenhagen is known as ''danskebåten'' (Danish boat) among Norwegians and has a long tradition. The Copenhagen ferry is often used by Norwegians on a weekend trip to Copenhagen, while the Kiel ferry is often used by truck drivers. * Larvik is connected to northern Denmark by ferry, whereas Sandefjord is connected to Strömstad (Sweden) by ferry. ===By plane=== East Norway has two international airports: * [[Oslo Airport, Gardermoen]] is Norways largest airport and well connected * [[Sandefjord]] airport at Torp ===By train=== * International: **From Stockholm **From Gothenburg (via Halden) * Domestic: ** Bergen line ** Sørlandsbanen from Kristiansand and Stavanger ** Dovre line via Dombås from Trondheim **Røros line from Trondheim and [[Røros]] ** Rauma line from [[Åndalsnes]] to Dombås ===By car=== [[File:Rv15 2.jpg|thumb|Road 15 at the mountain pass to [[Stryn]] and [[Geiranger]]. At these altitudes there can be occasional snowfall even in May.]] * Road 3 (Østerdalen road) is the alternative road from Trondheim and runs through all of [[Hedmark]] north-south. * The [[E6 through Sweden and Norway|E6]] is Norway's main road and a key reference for road trips in Norway. **The E6 is the main access from Sweden, at Svinesund border point near Halden. **The E6 is the main access from Trøndelag and Northern Norway. **E136 from Ålesund and Åndalsnes connects to E6 at Dombås * Road 15 is the east-west main road from Stryn with connections from [[Geiranger]]. * Road 55 from [[Sognefjord]] through Sognefjellet mt pass to [[Lom]] is one of the great mountain roads. * Road E16 is the east-west European route Bergen-[[Valdres]]-[[Hønefoss]]-(branch to Oslo/Sandvika)-[[Oslo Airport, Gardermoen]]-Kongsvinger-(border with Sweden)-[[Gävle]]. * Road 7 through Hardangervidda is the main alternative to E16 from Bergen * Road E134 from Haugesund and Hardanger through Haukeli pass to Telemark, Kongsberg and Drammen. * Road E18 **From the west: the main access from Stavanger and Kristiansand, but generally considered the less scenic option. **From the Sweden: the main access from Stockholm and Karlstad to Oslo area. ==Get around== [[File:NSB El 18 2245 Tunga.jpg|thumb|Train on Bergen line near Geilo heading for Finse]] [[File:Veslebjørn mountain seen from Bjørnungen in Jotunheimen National Park.jpg|thumb|Jotunheimen range includes Norway's highest mountains and separates east and west. It is the most popular hiking destination with hikes at all levels of difficulty.]] [[File:Unterwegs ski.jpg|thumb|Perfectly groomed cross country trails near Gol, [[Hallingdal]].]] Oslo totally dominates this region. Oslo and its airport at Gardermoen is the transport hub for East Norway. Roads and railway lines have Oslo as their focal points. All railway lines, including the airport express train, terminate at Oslo Central Station ("Oslo S"). Main roads E6, E18, E16 and Road 4 meet at or near Oslo S. Regional and long distance buses depart from the bus station next door to Oslo S. Oslo Subway (T-banen) has a main station underground next to the train station. Air transport is in general not an option within East Norway. The main axis to/from Oslo are covered by railway lines and motorways. Overland transport is however restricted by natural barriers. The Oslofjord cuts deep into the land and transport between east and west of the fjord are through the subsea Oslofjord tunnel, by car ferry Horten-Moss or through Oslo. Mjøsa and other big lakes also limit transport perpendicular to the main watercourses. The car ferry across Randsfjorden lake is the only car ferry on a lake. Mountains and uplands are also barriers to overland transport and roads and rails largely runs along the big valleys and rivers. Transport between big inner valleys is more cumbersome and often runs through a few passes or elevated plateaus with steep roads to/from valleys. ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Fagernes Airport | alt=Leirin - operated by DOT | url=http://www.fagernesairport.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=10 minutes from Fagernes | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The local airport with daily connections to [[Oslo]] (30 minutes). }} * {{go | name=Oslo Gardermoen Airport | alt=[[Gardermoen]] | url=http://www.osl.no/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=25 minutes with the Airport Express Train from [[Oslo]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Norway's main airport with domestic and international flights. }} * {{go | name=Sandefjord Torp Airport | alt=Torp | url=http://www.torp.no | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=1 hour 50 minutes with the Torpekspressen coach from [[Oslo]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Rygge mainly caters to travellers from Oslo, Akershus and Østfold. Most flights are with Ryanair. }} * {{go | name=Skien Geiteryggen Airport | url=http://www.vildanden.no | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=serviced by flights to [[Bergen]], [[Stavanger]] and [[Molde]] (daily), as well as three times per week to [[Stockholm]], Sweden }} ===By bus=== * '''[https://innlandstrafikk.no/ Innlandstrafikk]''' is the local bus operator (website in Norwegian only). Route info also on [http://www.en-tur.no en-tur.no] (available in English).<br/>In summer (23.06.–17.08. in 2025), they often have specials allowing you to travel for 10 kr per ride on regional buses, e.g. a tour from the far northwestern Dombås to the far southeastern [[Kongsvinger]] (330 km) will cost you just 50 kr then. * {{go | name=Nor-Way Bussekspress | alt= | url=http://www.nor-way.no | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Most express buses running through the region are covered by this website. e.g. connections to [[Oslo]], [[Lillehammer]], [[Valdres]], [[Jotunheimen]] and [[Hallingdal]]. }} <!-- * {{listing | name=Valdresekspressen | alt=express coach | url=http://www.valdresekspressen.no | email=post@valdresekspressen.no | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+47 61 36 59 00 | tollfree= | fax=+47 61 36 16 00 | hours= | price= | content=Route (Up to six daily departures): [[Oslo]]-[[Hønefoss]]-[[Valdres]]-[[Sogn]] and [[Oslo]]-[[Hønefoss]]-[[Valdres]]-[[Jotunheimen]]. }} * {{listing | name=Lavprisekspressen | alt=express coach | url=http://www.lavprisekspressen.no | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+47 67 98 04 80 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=low cost internet booking | content=Routes: (One departue per day):[[Trondheim]]-[[Dovrefjell]]-[[Lillehammer]]-[[Hamar]]-[[Gardermoen]]-[[Oslo]] and (Two departues per day):[[Stavanger]]-[[Kristiansand]]-[[Larvik]]-[[Sandefjord]]-[[Oslo]]. }} * {{listing | name=Øst-Vest Xpressen | alt=express coach | url=http://www.ostvestxpressen.no | email=jvb@jvb.no | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+47 61 36 59 00 | tollfree= | fax=+47 61 36 16 00 | hours= | price= | content=Route (One departue per day): [[Bergen]]-[[Voss]]-[[Lærdal]]-[[Valdres]]-[[Land]]-[[Lillehammer]]. }} * {{listing | name=JVB | alt=local buses | url=http://www.jvb.no | email=jvb@jvb.no | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+47 61 36 59 00 | tollfree= | fax=+47 61 36 16 00 | hours=08-16 | price= | content=Connections to [[Gjøvik]], [[Gol (Norway)|Gol]], [[Lærdal]] and [[Gjende]]. }} * {{listing | name=TIMEkspressen | alt=express coach | url=http://www.nettbuss.no/ekspressbuss/timekspressen | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Connections to [[Skien]], [[Notodden]] and [[Kongsberg]]. }} --> ===By train=== * {{listing | name=NSB | alt=Noregs Statsbaner (National Rail) | url=http://www.nsb.no | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+47 23 62 00 00 (abroad) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Oslo Central Station (Oslo S) is the main train station in Eastern Norway, where all train routes connect. Connections to [[Stavanger]], [[Gjøvik]], [[Lillehammer]], [[Bergen]], [[Trondheim]], [[Skien]], [[Fredrikstad]] and [[Kristiansand]], plus a large number of local trains. Also, trains to [[Sweden]] and the rest of [[Europe]] depart from here. Call 815 00 888 for domestic. }}. ===By car=== {{see also|Driving in Norway}} Most of Norway's motorways are around Oslo. There is one car ferry across Oslofjord at Moss-Horten and one across Randsfjorden lake. ==See== {{infobox|Lake Mjøsa - East Norway's small inland ocean|[[File:Gjøvik and Lake Mjøsa seen from Oeverby September 2016 a.jpg|thumb|upright=1.6|centre]]Lake Mjøsa sits in the middle of East Norway and is shared between [[Oppland]], [[Hedmark]] and [[Akershus]]. The south end is surrounded by fertile lowlands, while the north end intersects with [[Gudbrandsdalen]] and beginning of the uplands. This is the widest in Norway (about the size of [[Lake Garda]]) and at 453 m the 4th deepest lake in Europe. The average depth is 150 m, such that most of the lake is in fact below sea level. Despite the big rivers flowing into the lake, its large volume means that it takes 6 years for water to pass through. There are about 20 species of fish in the lake. Åkersvika, a bay and wetland at Hamar, is a nature reserve create to protect birds in particular. The 120 km long and partly narrow lake can be mistaken for a river or a western fjord. Mjøsa is largely frozen in winter and often used for skating. After the construction of Mjøsa bridge at Moelven car ferries across the lake were discontinued. Skibladner is still in operation and is now the world's oldest paddle steamer in service. Norway's first railway ran from Oslo to Mjøsa, still today the shores of Mjøsa host Norway's main transport corridor north-south.}} ==Do== * All kinds of winter sports, even some at summertime. In the interior and in the uplands skiing season is usually long. **Alpine ski resorts often operate until late April or early May **The ski resort at Galdhøpiggen is open in summer only **Cross-country skiing is possible all over East Norway, usually from late November in the high areas. There are countless groomed trails and many loops are floodlit for the dark mid winter evenings. **Back country skiing is possible virtually anywhere. In the uplands and high mountains such as Jotunheimen and Hardangervidda back country skiing usually continues until mid May, some years well into June. * Sailing * Fishing in salt water and fresh water (rivers & lakes). Fishing in fresh water requires a permit from the landlord. * Canoeing or kayaking on the long lakes in Telemark, Hedmark and Østfold. In Østfold (Halden canal) and in Telemark (Telemark canal) several lakes are connected by locks. Some lakes and rivers are shared with Sweden and are connected to the large Swedish lakes. ;Climb or hike mountains East Norway includes gentle sloping highlands such as [[Hardangervidda]] as well as alpine peaks such as [[Jotunheimen]]. * The Gausta summit (1883 meters) near [[Rjukan]] in Telemark gives the best outlook, on a clear day on can see one sixth of Norway (or an area twice that of Belgium). Easy hike 2-3 hours, possible for children aged 10+. Very popular. ==Eat== The Norwegian cuisine is known for eclectic food with a good supply of many local ingredients. Try Norwegian seafood! ==Drink== Local Norwegian beer, aquavit and cider. Or simply clean and fresh water. ==Stay safe== Eastern Norway is experienced as generally very safe, with few exceptions in parts of Oslo and the larger cities. Just take normal precautions. ==Go next== * The rest of [[Norway]] * [[Sweden]] * [[Denmark]] * [[Kiel]] {{outlineregion}} {{IsPartOf|Norway}} {{geo|60.25|10.66667|zoom=8}} mjnllpjy1fz42hqezeh2lipfp9dmcoh 0 10608 5091338 5082708 2025-07-11T10:41:56Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Mid-range */ Hoxton 5091338 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Edinburgh New Town banner Princes Street from City Chambers.JPG|caption=Princes Street from City Chambers|pgname=New Town of Edinburgh|unesco=yes|dotm=yes}} '''New Town''' of [[Edinburgh]] is 250 years old, in contrast to the [[Edinburgh/Old Town | Old Town]] settled for over a thousand years. It was laid out on a grid pattern in the late 18th century with elegant Georgian townhouses, and the intervening loch was drained to become Princes Street Gardens. It's nowadays Edinburgh's main shopping and commercial district. Along with [[Edinburgh/Old Town | Old Town]], the New Town was listed as a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site]] by UNESCO in 1995. == Understand == [[File:Balmoral Hotel 7 (6897318114).jpg | thumb | Waterloo Place and Balmoral Hotel ]] By the 1600s Edinburgh was crowded and filthy within the walls of the Old Town. The Duke of Albany and York held his nose at it in Holyrood Palace and backed a plan to extend north. But he left town to become the unpopular King James VII / II, was ousted from his throne and launched a series of "Jacobite" counter-coups to regain it, so his support was toxic. The city continued to fester on its crag and to dump its sewage into the Nor Loch. A fresh start was made in the 18th century: the 1707 Union with England made a defensive position unnecessary, and was drawing away the most prosperous and influential people to live in London. Edinburgh needed to re-invent itself as a place to live and work. In 1767 the council adopted the plans of a young architect James Craig (1739-1795). These covered the area that became Princes St, George St and Queen St, and created the grid pattern you see today. By 1820 this tract was populated by expensive private homes, by different builders with individual designs. Charlotte Square at the west end of George Street is the finest example of this first phase, designed by Robert Adam. Streets were added to the north (Great King Street being the best) and northwest (where Moray Place is a superb circle of mansions). Connections were made across the valley to Old Town by a bridge (replaced by the present North Bridge in 1897) and a midway embankment, The Mound. The West End was built in the 1860s and 1870s. Shared private gardens were a major part of the plans - Princes Street Gardens began this way, and its owners prevented any construction south of the street that might spoil their view. They likewise tried to prevent the railway from linking the east and west terminuses but were defeated by 1846. These gardens and St Andrew Square are now public parks, but many remain private, such as Queen Street Gardens, Dean Gardens, and the centres of many squares and crescents. The original tract between Princes Street and Queen Street is now mainly shops and offices and has lost many original buildings. Princes Street itself is a sorry contrast: its view south, central Mound and bookending railway hotels are grand, but the retail strip along its north side is utterly mediocre. East of St Andrew Square was redeveloped for the drab St James shopping centre, and the street pattern was obliterated. The rest of New Town is still mainly residential, though its original townhouses have mostly been divided into flats. == Get in == {{Mapframe | 55.955 | -3.205 | height=500 | width=650 | zoom=14 }} {{Mapmask|55.9563,-3.1723|55.9558,-3.1731|55.9536,-3.1784|55.9515,-3.1882|55.9512,-3.1918|55.9511,-3.1946|55.9498,-3.2020|55.9487,-3.2047|55.9489,-3.2052|55.9490,-3.2067|55.9458,-3.2055|55.9457,-3.2083|55.9458,-3.2095|55.9460,-3.2106|55.9461,-3.2118|55.9461,-3.2172|55.9459,-3.2178|55.9459,-3.2234|55.9472,-3.2234|55.9486,-3.2238|55.9492,-3.2241|55.9491,-3.2255|55.9494,-3.2278|55.9498,-3.2277|55.9500,-3.2271|55.9504,-3.2283|55.9511,-3.2294|55.9512,-3.2291|55.9524,-3.2312|55.9529,-3.2275|55.9537,-3.2294|55.9546,-3.2306|55.9554,-3.2305|55.9558,-3.2231|55.9559,-3.2229|55.9562,-3.2220|55.9563,-3.2209|55.9564,-3.2166|55.9558,-3.2162|55.9568,-3.2145|55.9568,-3.2142|55.9568,-3.2137|55.9557,-3.2120|55.9558,-3.2117|55.9563,-3.2112|55.9565,-3.2108|55.9561,-3.2101|55.9562,-3.2096|55.9570,-3.2081|55.9573,-3.2070|55.9572,-3.2064|55.9575,-3.2062|55.9577,-3.2060|55.9580,-3.2055|55.9581,-3.2052|55.9581,-3.2032|55.9582,-3.2033|55.9584,-3.2032|55.9587,-3.2029|55.9590,-3.2021|55.9596,-3.1984|55.9596,-3.1972|55.9597,-3.1966|55.9601,-3.1959|55.9606,-3.1954|55.9606,-3.1950|55.9611,-3.1953|55.9613,-3.1946|55.9614,-3.1944|55.9601,-3.1918|55.9611,-3.1909|55.9619,-3.1874|55.9619,-3.1871|55.9638,-3.1834|55.9626,-3.1814|55.9619,-3.1798|55.9617,-3.1787|55.9616,-3.1776|55.9616,-3.1757|55.9616,-3.1737|55.9615,-3.1716|55.9616,-3.1711|55.9576,-3.1721|55.9563,-3.1723}} {{marker | name=Waverley Station | type=go | lat=55.9520 | long=-3.1897 }} is at the east end of Princes St, with trains from all parts: see [[Edinburgh#Get in]] for routes. Buses and trams from the airport stop outside Waverley station. The tram continues northwest to Leith and local buses fan out to all parts of the city. {{marker | name=Edinburgh Bus Station | type=go | wikidata=Q5338154 }} is 200 yards north of Waverley, terminus of all inter-city buses. {{marker | name=Haymarket Station | type=go | lat=55.9457 | long=-3.2186 }} is more convenient for the west end of New Town. All trains from the west (for instance Glasgow) stop here. Never bring a car into New Town unless you've planned ahead for where you might park. From 1 June 2024, most of the New Town is in a [https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/lez Low Emission Zone], with camera-enforced penalties for entering in a non-compliant vehicle. Cars built after 2015 are generally compliant, but check [https://www.lowemissionzones.scot/ online]. Walking is usually the best way to get around New Town, but it extends 2 miles east-west, and then there's the slopes up to the Old Town or down towards Stockbridge to be negotiated. == See == * {{see | name=Calton Hill | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1199959 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=This is the stubby crag just east of Princes Street: a short stroll up it commands great views. The "National Monument", a memorial to Scots killed in the Napoleonic Wars, was an attempt to out-do the Parthenon in Athens but the money ran out with only the west facade built. Nelson's Tower was built 1807-16 in the shape of an upturned telescope in honour of the naval hero. A Time Ball on the mast drops at 1PM every day just as the One O'Clock Gun is fired from the castle - this gives a time signal to ships in the Firth before the sound rolls out to them, or it would if not obscured by drizzle and the ships in possession of reliable watches. It was operated by the adjacent City Observatory, superseded in 1896 by the Royal Observatory in the [[Edinburgh/South| south]] of the city. City Observatory remained active until 2009 then was refurbished as the [https://www.collective-edinburgh.art/ Collective Gallery] exhibition space for modern art. }} * {{see | name=Old Calton Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Waterloo Place EH1 3BQ | lat=55.9536 | long=-3.1862 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-5PM | price= | wikipedia=Old Calton Burial Ground | wikidata=Q7083575 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Atmospheric Georgian graves, memorials, and funerary ornaments. Memorials include those to the philosopher David Hume (1711-1776), to the Scots who died in the American Civil War, and to the Martyrs of Reform imprisoned or transported for sedition in the 1790s for calling for the right to vote. }} * {{see | name=St Andrew's & St George's West Church | alt= | url=https://www.stagw.org.uk/ | email=info@stagw.org.uk | address=13 George Street EH2 2PA | lat= | long= | directions=next to Intercontinental Hotel | phone=+44 131 225-3847 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-2PM | price=Free | wikipedia=St Andrew's and St George's West Church | wikidata=Q7592411 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Completed in 1784, this is the parish church of the New Town. It's Italianate with an unusual elliptical interior, with an ornate ceiling blending Roman, Pompeian and Scottish elements. The steeple holds Scotland's oldest complete peal of bells, cast in 1788. In 1843 this church was the scene of The Great Disruption, when a third of ministers broke with the Presbyterian Church of Scotland to found their own Free Kirk. St George's Church was part of the breakaway, but there was a reconciliation in the 20th century, and in 2013 that congregation merged here. The Undercroft Cafe has homemade food M-F 10:30AM-2PM. }} [[File:The Scott Monument, Princes Street Gardens.jpg | thumb | Scott Monument ]] * {{see | name=Scott Monument | alt= | url=https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venues/scott-monument | email= | address=East Princes Street Gardens EH2 2EJ | lat=55.9524 | long=-3.1933 | directions= | phone=+44 131 529-4068 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10-12:30AM, 2-4PM | price=Adult £8, child £6 | wikipedia=Scott Monument | wikidata=Q2502213 | lastedit=2023-12-23 | content=Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832) re-invented Scotland. In the late Georgian era, he popularised tales of its medieval and Jacobean tumults, and created the clan tartans you buy on Princes St. This grand Gothic memorial, part cathedral part moon rocket, was completed in 1846 to dominate the east end of Princes St. It's 200 ft 6 in / 61.1 m tall, and guided tours take you up 287 steps (no lift) to the top platform, for a closer look at many of the statuettes of characters from Scott's works. The man himself and his dog sit in state at the base. In the 1990s the curators considered cleaning the monument but realised that the Victorian grime was holding it together, so replacement stonework is prominently white. }} * {{see | name=Royal Scottish Academy | alt= | url=https://www.royalscottishacademy.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2070445 | lastedit=2024-01-06 | content=is an august neo-classical building on The Mound, fronting onto Princes St, and its main function is to be confused with the National Gallery behind. The RSA is a separate organisation promoting contemporary Scottish art. The building hosts temporary exhibitions but doesn't have a permanent display - the Academy's extensive collection is dispersed across many galleries. That might include your own home, as they run an art rental scheme. }} * {{see | name=National Galleries of Scotland: National | alt= | url=https://www.nationalgalleries.org/visit/scottish-national-gallery | email= | address=The Mound EH2 2EL | lat=55.9509 | long=-3.1956 | directions= | phone=+44 131 624-6200 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Free, charges for major temporary exhibitions | wikipedia=Scottish National Gallery | wikidata=Q942713 | lastedit=2024-05-26 | content=This holds much of Scotland's fine artwork from Renaissance to 20th century, with changing exhibitions. These rotate seasonally, so an exhibition put on for the Festival typically stays to the end of the year, allowing quieter times to view. Enter from the plaza between gallery and Royal Scottish Academy, and a basement passage connects the two exhibition spaces. The Scottish Galleries on the lowest floor reopened in 2023 after several years of redevelopment, and show a good collection of local work and views which may inspire trips. }} * {{see | name=National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait | alt= | url=https://www.nationalgalleries.org/visit/scottish-national-portrait-gallery | email=enquiries@nationalgalleries.org | address=1 Queen Street EH2 1JD | lat=55.9555 | long=-3.1936 | directions= | phone=+44 131 624-6200 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish National Portrait Gallery | wikidata=Q2441562 | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Completed in 1890, this is a striking red sandstone neo-Gothic building. It holds portraits of Scots from down the ages, with new faces being added all the time: Billy Connolly and Tilda Swinton mingle with Mary Queen of Scots. The entrance hall has a grand frieze of notable Scots in procession. }} * {{see | name=Princes Street Gardens | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.9511 | long=-3.2007 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q980646 | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content=The west portion fills the valley beyond the Mound, spanning the railway tracks to the foot of castle crag. The east portion is the terrace around the Scott Monument. They were laid out in the 1820s as private gardens for residents of the street: occupants of bath chairs required a medical certificate that their condition was not contagious. Their initial opening to the public was solely at Christmas and New Year, in the belief that this would distract people from the pubs and reduce drunkenness. In 1876 they became a public park and were re-landscaped and dotted with statues. By this time the gardens were already bisected by railway tracks, the price that had to be paid to finally link the east and west railway terminuses. The gardens are open 24 hours. }} * {{see | name=The Georgian House | alt= | url=https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/georgian-house | email= | address=7 Charlotte Square EH2 4DR | lat=55.9524 | long=-3.2083 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225-2160 | tollfree= | hours=March F-Su 10AM-4PM, April-Oct daily 10AM-5PM | price=Adult £12, conc £7, NTS / NT free | wikipedia=The Georgian House, Edinburgh | wikidata=Q7736202 | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=This townhouse was designed by Robert Adam, completed in 1796 and has been furnished in the style of its first owner John Lamont. Its last private owner the Marquess of Bute also acquired adjacent townhouses and along with the other owners got the entire north facade of the square restored to Adams' imposing original design. Visit by self-guided tour, and in mid-summer you need to book as it sells out. }} * {{see | name=Charlotte Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5086152 | lastedit=2024-01-06 | content=In front of the house is the mirror-image of St Andrew's Square at the east end of George St. Bute House at Number 6, next door to The Georgian House, is the official residence of the First Minister of Scotland, so you might see a motorcade, TV cameras and armed security outside. The gardens in the square are private. Prince Albert stands in the middle, with his view down the street somewhat impeded by mature trees. }} [[File:The Water of Leith at the Dean Village (51131080460).jpg | thumb | The Water of Leith powered mills in Dean Village ]] * {{see | name=Gilbert the Phone Box | alt= | url=https://www.stewartchristie.com/ | email= | address=63 Queen St EH2 4NA | lat=55.9537 | long=-3.2050 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Key available Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM | price=Donation £3 | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=An old red phone box has been kitted out with Edwardian memorabilia, and nicknamed for Sir Giles Gilbert Scott (1880-1960) designer of the box. You can look in the windows anytime, or collect the key for £3 (for Save the Children) from Stewart Christie and Co who run a long established gentleman's outfitter in the shop next to it. }} * {{see | name=James Clerk Maxwell's Birthplace | alt= | url=https://clerkmaxwellfoundation.org/html/QRindex.html | email= | address=14 India Street EH3 6EZ | lat=55.9553 | long=-3.2057 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=By appointment M-F | price=Donation | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Isaac Newton realised that what caused the apple to fall was the very same force moving the moon, planets and stars. James Clerk Maxwell (1831-1879) was born in this house, before the family moved to Kirkcudbright. He was intensely curious about how nature worked and made a "great unification" of equal importance to Newton's: that magnetism, electricity, light and heat are all manifestations of the same electromagnetic spectrum. And this spectrum must contain other frequencies beyond human sensing: hence X-rays and radio waves, and the entire science of telecommunications. He made possible Einstein's 20th century unification of gravity, mass and energy, and contributed to many other fields of enquiry. The Foundation has preserved this townhouse with his memorabilia. His statue stands at the east end of George St and a laboratory block is named for him on the Edinburgh University science campus. }} * {{see | name=Dean Village | alt= | url=https://deanvillage.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5246524 | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content=It is an attractive hamlet down in the dene - the steep valley - of the Water of Leith. It was the medieval crossing point on the route from Edinburgh to South Queensferry, and is the main access point for this section of the Water of Leith Walkway (described below). The fast-descending stream drove 11 grain mills here, so it was the powerbase for the Baxters, the bakers' merchant guild. The present bridge across the stream was built in the 18th century, only just wide enough for a horse and cart. The village declined in the 19th century when bigger flour mills were built at Leith, and bypassed in 1833 when Telford's Dean Bridge spanned the valley; the Belford Bridge was added upstream in 1887. Dean village therefore never developed modern roads or industry, so its charming core was preserved. }} * {{see | name=Dean Bridge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.9531 | long=-3.2144 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5246025 | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content=is best seen from below in Dean Village as you follow the walkway along the stream - from the top it's just a busy thoroughfare. Crossing in four arches 107 ft / 32 m above the stream, it was Telford's last major project. As well as improving the route to Fife, it made the north bank into prime real estate, so elegant terraces were built there. }} * {{see | name=National Galleries of Scotland: Modern One | alt= | url=https://www.nationalgalleries.org/visit/scottish-national-gallery-modern-art | email=enquiries@nationalgalleries.org | address=74 Belford Rd EH4 3DR | lat=55.9509 | long=-3.2276 | directions=Bus 13 | phone=+44 131 624-6200 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art | wikidata=Q1889944 | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=The original modern art gallery, established in 1960, was in the Botanic Gardens. In 1895 it moved into this neoclassical building, originally a refuge for fatherless children, and in 1999 it expanded across the road into the neoclassical orphanage now known as Modern Two. The gardens of Modern One have been sculpted. Both buildings have extensive contemporary collections and most visitors find that seeing one of them is plenty for an afternoon. }} [[Image:SNGMA The Building.jpg | thumb | Modern One ]] * {{see | name=Modern Two | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2679817 | lastedit=2024-01-06 | content=Opposite side of Belford Rd has a slightly smaller collection, but enough to infuriate about one-in-five reviewers, who rage that their kids' drawings stuck on the fridge door are better. A neon sign in the garden reassures all and sundry that "There will be no miracles". The gallery was closed over winter 22/23 to reduce heating costs, a situation that the shivering orphans would appreciate, but remained open in winter 23/24. }} * {{see | name=St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral | alt= | url=https://www.cathedral.net/ | email= | address=Palmerston Place EH12 5AW | lat=55.9484 | long=-3.2166 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225-6293 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 8-8:30AM, Su 8AM-4PM | price= | wikipedia=St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh (Episcopal) | wikidata=Q2324015 | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=This stonking great neo-Gothic church was completed in 1879, designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott, with the towers added in 1917. It's the senior Episcopal church in Scotland, within the Anglican tradition of bishops (and much else) that the Presbyterians rejected. It has daily choral services: the song school (open occasionally) has stunning murals by Phoebe Anna Traquair. }} * {{see | name=St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral | alt= | url=https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/ | email= | address=61 York Place EH1 3JD | lat=55.9561 | long=-3.1879 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556-1798 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 8:30AM-6:30PM, Sa Su 8:30AM-7:30PM | price= | wikipedia=St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh (Roman Catholic) | wikidata=Q519072 | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=The Roman Catholic Cathedral was established as a chapel in 1814 and became a cathedral in 1886 for the archdiocese of Edinburgh and St Andrews. It was designed by James Gillespie Graham in neo-perpendicular style and has undergone several alterations and extensions - in the 1970s the tenements that hemmed it in were demolished. There are services twice daily in English and daily in Polish. }} * {{see | name=Sherlock Holmes | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.95658 | long=-3.18697 | directions=stands in the plaza outside the cathedral | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content=His creator Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930) was born nearby at 11 Picardy Place, to a genteel but impoverished Irish Catholic family. His first Sherlock story was published in 1886. The statue was in storage while the plaza was remodelled around the tramlines but restored in June 2023. }} == Do == [[Image:New Town Door.JPG| thumb | Townhouse door in New Town]] * {{marker | name=[https://www.assemblyroomsedinburgh.co.uk/ Assembly Rooms] | type=do | lat=55.9529 | long=-3.1987 }} are a large events venue at 54 George St. This grand neoclassical building was completed in 1787, with the inaugural event a Hunt Ball. Its principal spaces are the Music Room (capacity 788) and the Ball Room (capacity 400), with nine other classily decorated rooms. It's in constant use for private and public functions and a major site during the Festival. The building is owned by the council but run by a separate company. * {{do | name=Edinburgh Playhouse | alt= | url=https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/edinburgh-playhouse/ | email= | address=18-22 Greenside Place EH1 3AA | lat=55.9568 | long=-3.1852 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Edinburgh Playhouse | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Built as a cinema in 1929 and refurbished in 1980, this is now Scotland's largest performance space, with a capacity of 3059. That's about 1000 more than can comfortably be seated and 2000 more than they have toilet provision for. It's run by ATG, Ambassador Theatre Group. }} * {{do | name=Vue | alt= | url=https://www.myvue.com/cinema/edinburgh-omni-centre/whats-on | email= | address=61 Greenside Place, Leith Walk EH1 3AU | lat=55.95625 | long=-3.18589 | directions=within Omni Centre next to Playhouse | phone=+44 345 308 4620 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Large multiplex cinema showing mainstream releases. }} * {{do | name=Stand Comedy Club | alt= | url=https://www.thestand.co.uk/whats-on/edinburgh | email= | address= | lat=55.95572 | long=-3.19231 | directions=is in a basement at 5 York Place, east end of Queen St where the trams make a sharp turn | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-01-06 | content= }} * '''Water of Leith Walkway''' follows the stream from Balerno at the southwest edge of the city down through Colinton, Saughton and Murrayfield, to flow under the Glasgow road and form the boundary of New Town. Follow the east / south bank under Coltbridge Viaduct and Belford Bridge, crossing banks and continuing into Dean Village. The following section is described as part of [[Edinburgh/Stockbridge and Canonmills#Do | Stockbridge]] and the final stretch as part of [[Edinburgh/Leith#Do | Leith]]. The New Town and Stockbridge sections are too narrow for cycling, cut onto adjacent streets. ''Use the layers button ([[File:Inkscape icons dialog layers.svg|24px]] below the full screen button) and activate "Hiking" to see the walkway on the map''. == Buy == === Princes Street === : This is the main shopping street in Edinburgh, running from Waverley railway station to Lothian Road. Lots of chain stores here. George Street 200 yards north has more upmarket shops, plus bars and restaurants. * {{buy | name=St James Quarter | alt= | url=https://stjamesquarter.com/ | email= | address= | lat=55.9542 | long=-3.1884 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St. James Centre | wikidata=Q7588445 | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Shopping centre which opened in 2021, replacing the tired St James Centre, includes [http://www.johnlewis.com/ John Lewis] department store, and 3 floors of mid- and up-market chain stores. Also here are the W Hotel, [https://www.roomzzz.com/aparthotels/edinburgh Roomzzz aparthotel] and several restaurants. Too bad about the curling tapered roof sculpture, which looks like a . . . well, enough to spoil the view. }} * '''[https://www.multreeswalk.co.uk/ Multrees Walk]''' is a mall just south of the bus station, connecting St James Quarter with St Andrew Square. Stores here include [http://www.harveynichols.com/ Harvey Nichols], Louis Vuitton, Burberry and Canada Goose. * {{buy | name=Waverley Market | alt= | url=https://waverleymarketedin.com | email= | address=3/48 Waverley Bridge EH1 1BQ | lat=55.952778 | long=-3.191667 | directions=above station | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-8PM | price= | wikidata=Q7244460 | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Upmarket mainstream shops in a covered mall above Waverley station. }} * '''Dundas St''' is the north continuation of Hanover St, descending to Canonmills. Its upper section is lined with art galleries: these are commercial selling galleries (hours vary) but they're happy for you just to browse around. They include [https://www.openeyegallery.co.uk/ Open Eye], [https://www.arushagallery.com/ Arusha], [https://scottish-gallery.co.uk/ Scottish Gallery], [https://www.greyfriarsart.co.uk/ Greyfriars Art], [https://birchtreegallery.co.uk/ Birch Tree], [https://www.torrancegallery.co.uk/ Torrance Gallery] and [https://www.fettesfineart.com/ Fettes Fine Art]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Lower down are several antique shops. * {{buy | name=Slater Menswear | alt= | url=http://www.slaters.co.uk/stores/index/view/?id=18 | email= | address=100 George Street EH2 3DF | lat=55.9524 | long=-3.2028 | directions= | phone=+44 131 220-3223 | tollfree= | hours=M-W F Sa 8:30AM-5:30PM, Th 8:30AM-8:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Eastern outpost of the famous Glasgow institution. Broad range at keen prices with helpful service. }} * '''[https://edinburgh-westend.co.uk/shopping/ West End]''' of Princes St has a retail strip in the block bounded by Queensferry St, Shandwick Place, William Street and Stafford Street. * {{buy | name=Paper Tiger | alt= | url=https://www.papertiger.co.uk | email= | address=6a Stafford St EH3 7AU | lat=55.9495 | long=-3.2112 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226-2390 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-6PM, Su 11AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Classy selection of cards, home accessories, toys and gifts. Their other branches are at 53 Lothian Rd and 194 Morningside Rd. }} === Broughton Street === [[File:Ross Fountain Princes St Gardens 02.jpg | thumb | Ross Fountain in Princes Street Gardens ]] : This is a boho street at the northeast end of New Town, with a variety of independent shops, bars and restaurants. * {{buy | name=The Dragonfly | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/thedragonflygifts/ | email= | address=111a Broughton Street EH1 3RZ | lat=55.959014 | long=-3.190251 | directions=Next to Cask & Barrel pub | phone=+44 131 629-4246 | tollfree= | hours=M-F noon-6PM, Sa Su 11AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Funky little shop with a lovely range of cards and gifts. }} * {{buy | name=Crombies | alt= | url=https://www.crombiesofedinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=97 Broughton Street H1 3RZ | lat=55.958717 | long=-3.189780 | directions=100 yards up from Cask & Barrel | phone=+44 131 557-0111 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 7AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Award-winning butchers shop, established 1955. Great quality local meat, especially their range of sausages. }} * {{buy | name=Real Foods | alt= | url=https://www.realfoods.co.uk | email= | address=37 Broughton Street EH1 3JU | lat=55.957278 | long=-3.188126 | directions=20 yards down from Mathers Bar | phone=+44 131 557-1911 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-7PM, Su 10AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=The original Edinburgh "health food" shop, opened in 1975. Sells a wide range of loose and packet dried goods, some vegetarian ready meals and snacks and a small selection of organic fruit and veg. }} === Leith Walk === : This descends from the east end of Princes St and runs all the way down to Leith, with the trams rumbling along it. * {{buy | name=Valvona & Crolla | alt= | url=https://www.valvonacrolla.co.uk/ | email= | address=19 Elm Row, Leith Walk EH7 4AA | lat=55.9587 | long=-3.1834 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556-6066 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Legendary Italian deli founded in 1934. Its grey frontage is unassuming, but it stretches back through a wonderland of food. There's a small bright cafe in the back, where you'll be lucky to get seated. }} * {{buy | name=Vinyl Villains | alt= | url=https://www.vinylvillains.co.uk/ | email= | address=5 Elm Row, Leith Walk EH7 4AA | lat=55.958281 | long=-3.183700 | directions=50 yards up from Valvona & Crolla | phone=+44 131 558-1170 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:30AM-6PM, Su 1-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Second-hand vinyl record shop with a great selection, quality stock and reasonable prices. They also have CDs, T-shirts, posters and fanzines. }} * {{buy | name=Harburn Hobbies | alt= | url=https://www.harburnhobbies.co.uk/ | email= | address=67 Elm Row, Leith Walk EH7 4AQ | lat=55.9605 | long=-3.1814 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556-3233 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Family-run business established in the 1930s. Specialises in model railways, including some items exclusive to this shop. Also die-cast model vehicles, Scalextric slot car racing systems and plastic and wooden model construction kits. }} == Eat == [[File:3 to 5 Moray Place, Edinburgh.JPG | thumb | Moray Place ]] === Budget === * {{eat | name=Snax | alt= | url=https://snaxcafe.com | email= | address=15 West Register Street EH2 2AA | lat= | long= | directions=behind Cafe Royal | phone=+44 131 557 8688 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 7AM-3PM, Su 7:30-2PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=A small fast-food joint, limited seating. The food is cheap and edible, with a decent vegetarian selection. }} * {{eat | name=Cafe Piccante | alt= | url=https://cafepiccante.co.uk/Home | email= | address=19 Broughton St EH1 3JU | lat=55.956935 | long=-3.187822 | directions=next to Mathers Bar | phone=+44 131 478 7884 | tollfree= | hours=M-F noon-2AM, Sa Su 3PM-2AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Unashamed specialists in late-night greasy food, friendly staff and a DJ at weekends. The burgers are a stand-out and deep-fried mars bars are available for tourists. }} === Mid-range === * {{eat | name=Cafe Royal | alt= | url=https://www.caferoyaledinburgh.com/ | email= | address=19 West Register Street EH2 2AA | lat=55.9538 | long=-3.1905 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556 1884 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Beautifully tiled Victorian palace of a pub, designed in 1862 as a showroom for the latest fixtures and fittings, no dogs. The stylish restaurant serves seafood and other classics. }} * {{eat | name=Dishoom | alt= | url=https://www.dishoom.com/edinburgh/ | email= | address=3a St Andrew Square EH2 2BD | lat=55.953543 | long=-3.192513 | directions=50 yards west of Edinburgh Grand | phone=+44 131 202 6406 | tollfree= | hours=Su-W 8AM-11PM, Th-Sa 8AM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Scottish outpost of a small national chain, modelling their interiors on colonial Bombay cafes. The food is made to share, mostly consisting of small plates, with the house chaat, black daal and salli botti particularly memorable. Often busy, but they can usually squeeze you in, remember those Bombay buses and commuter trains. }} * {{eat | name=The Dome | alt= | url=https://www.thedomeedinburgh.com | email= | address=14 George Street EH2 2PF | lat=55.953516 | long=-3.195541 | directions=opposite Intercontinental The George | phone=+44 131 624 8624 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Bar and grill in a former bank headquarters with grand exterior and impressive interior. }} * {{eat | name=Pizza Pilgrims | alt= | url=https://www.pizzapilgrims.co.uk/pizzerias/edinburgh/ | email= | address=7 Rose Street EH2 2PR | lat=55.953232 | long=-3.194911 | directions=block west of St Andrew Square | phone=+44 131 227 7186 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:30AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2025-06-03 | content=This Neapolitan-style chain pizzeria in 2025 opened its Edinburgh outlet to much hype. It's good not great. }} * {{eat | name=Mussel Inn | alt= | url=https://www.mussel-inn.com | email= | address=61-65 Rose Street EH2 2NH | lat=55.952521 | long=-3.199078 | directions=behind Assembly Rooms | phone=+44 131 225 5979 | tollfree= | hours=M-F noon-2:30PM, 5-10PM, Sa Su noon-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Seafood restaurant owned by shellfish producers, ingredients direct from the west coast. }} * {{eat | name=Dulse | alt= | url=https://www.dulse.co.uk/ | email= | address=17 Queensferry St EH2 4QW | lat=55.950861 | long=-3.209995 | directions= | phone=+44 1738 718387 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu 5PM-midnight, W-Su noon-midnight | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=This serves excellent Scottish seafood. }} * {{eat | name=Teuchters | alt= | url=https://teuchtersbar.co.uk/ | email= | address=26 William Street EH3 7NH | lat=55.9493 | long=-3.2123 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225 2973 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Lively pub serving modern Scottish cuisine at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Café Marlayne | alt= | url=https://www.cafemarlayne.com/ | email= | address=76 Thistle Street EH2 1EN | lat=55.9537 | long=-3.2003 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226 2230 | tollfree= | hours=Tu 6-10PM, W-Sa noon-3PM, 6-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Chic cosy French bistro serving up excellent French cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Cafe St Honoré | alt= | url=https://www.cafesthonore.com/ | email= | address=Thistle Street North West Lane EH2 1EA | lat= | long= | directions=alley opposite Cafe Marlayne | phone=+44 131 226 2211 | tollfree= | hours=Th-Sa noon-2PM, 5-9:30PM, Su 6-8PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Great continental food and wine. Gluten free and dairy free menus available. }} * {{eat | name=Contini | alt= | url=https://www.contini.com/ | email= | address=103 George St EH2 3ES | lat=55.952761 | long=-3.203008 | directions=opposite Slaters | phone=+44 131 225 1550 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9AM-11PM, Sa 10AM-11PM, Su 10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Restaurant in a former grand banking hall serving wonderful Italian food. }} * '''[https://www.aizle.co.uk/ Aizle]''', opened in 2021, is modern Scottish cuisine. It's at 38 Charlotte Square and open W-Su 5-9PM. * '''[https://notoedinburgh.co.uk/ Noto]''' at 47a Thistle St is sister to Aizle. They serve excellent Japanese-themed dishes for sharing; open Su-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight. * {{eat | name=Fhior | alt= | url=https://fhior.com/ | email= | address=36 Broughton St EH1 3SB | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Barony Bar | phone=+44 131 477 5000 | tollfree= | hours=Th 6:30-10PM, F-Su noon-2:30PM, 6:30-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Beautiful Scandi cuisine, locally sourced and artfully presented. }} * '''Number 11''' is a hotel brasserie (see Sleep) at 11 Brunswick St, serving non-residents W-F 5-9PM, Sa Su noon-3PM, 5-9PM. * {{eat | name=Holy Cow | alt= | url=https://holycow.cafe/ | email= | address=34 Elder St EH1 3DX | lat= | long= | directions=behind bus station | phone=+44 131 629 7057 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th noon-10PM, F-Su 10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2025-06-03 | content=Excellent basement vegan cafe. Home-made food. }} * '''[https://lylaedinburgh.co.uk/ Lyla]''' is fine dining at 3 Royal Terrace. === Splurge === [[File:Balmoral Hotel by Night.jpg | thumb | Balmoral Hotel ]] * '''The Balmoral''' above Waverley Station (see Sleep) has three dining areas: ** [https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel/dining/palm-court/ Palm Court] serves afternoon tea daily 9AM-5PM, with live harp music. ** [https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel/dining/brasserie-prince/ Brasserie Prince] is a slick French-style bistro, daily 7AM-10PM. ** [https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel/dining/number-one/ Number One] is fine dining, modern Scots, Th-M 6-9:30PM. * '''George Hotel''' main restaurant The Printing Press has closed for rebuilding until 2025. Le Petit Beefbar is their steakhouse open daily 12:30-3:30PM, 5:30-9:30PM. Burr & Co coffee shop only serves dinner to residents. * '''Waldorf Astoria''' west end of Princes St (see Sleep) has two restaurants: ** [https://www.markgreenaway.com/grazing-restaurant Grazing] is modern Scottish fare (chef Mark Greenaway), Tu-Sa 6-9PM. ** [https://www.deanbanks.co.uk/ The Pompadour] is continental cuisine (chef Dean Banks), Th 5PM-midnight, F-Su noon-3PM, 5-PM-midnight. * {{eat | name=The Palmerston | alt= | url=https://www.thepalmerstonedinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=1 Palmerston Place EH12 5AF | lat=55.9473 | long=-3.2151 | directions= | phone=+44 131 220-1794 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 9AM-2:30PM, 6-10PM, Su 9AM-3:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Chicly decorated restaurant and bakery in a former bank, the menu changes daily. }} == Drink == : '''George Street''' is the main drinking strip, along with the St Andrews Square area, the cross streets, and the two parallel pedestrian alleys Rose St south and Thistle / Hill / Young St north. Those alleys in turn have sub-alley loops, where dazed stag and hen parties mill and meander. * {{drink | name=Voodoo Rooms | alt= | url=https://www.thevoodoorooms.com/ | email=info@thevoodoorooms.com | address=19a West Register Street H2 2AA | lat=55.953732 | long=-3.190592 | directions=behind Cafe Royal | phone=+44 131 556-7060 | tollfree= | hours=W Th 5PM-1AM, F Su 3PM-1AM, Sa 1PM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Over-the-top decor in this quirky pub, sometimes has live entertainment, mixed reviews for the food. }} * {{drink | name=All Bar One | alt= | url=https://www.allbarone.co.uk/national-search/scotland-and-northern-ireland/all-bar-one-george-street-edinburgh | email= | address=29-31 George Street EH2 2PA | lat=55.953776 | long=-3.197077 | directions=next to Intercontinental The George | phone=+44 131 226-9971 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 9AM-11PM, F Sa 9AM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Chain pub with slick service and good ale and meals. }} * {{drink | name=Eastside | alt= | url=https://www.eastsideedinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=51 George Street EH2 2HT | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Assembly Rooms | phone=+44 131 226-2275 | tollfree= | hours=Su-F 9PM-3AM, Sa 5PM-3AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Busy cocktail bar and night entertainment spot. }} * {{drink | name=The Standing Order | alt= | url=https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/pubs/all-pubs/scotland/edinburgh/the-standing-order-edinburgh | email= | address=62-66 George St EH2 2LR | lat= | long= | directions=next to Assembly Rooms | phone=+44 131 225-4460 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8AM-1PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=A cavernous converted bank building. It's part of the JD Wetherspoon chain and always has a wide range of inexpensive drinks and pub food. }} * '''[https://www.pandaandsons.com/ Panda & Sons]''' is a cocktail bar at 79 Queen St, corner with Charlotte Square, which claims to be "pushing the bounds of cocktail theory" so you might be in for a nosebleed. It's open Tu-Su 4PM-1AM. [[File:Rathbone as Holmes - F&R.png | thumb | Sherlock Holmes' statue is in Picardy Place, surveying the Broughton St pubs ]] * {{drink | name=Tonic | alt= | url=https://www.bar-tonic.co.uk/ | email= | address=34a North Castle St EH2 3BN | lat=55.9527 | long=-3.2040 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225-6431 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 5PM-1AM, F-Su noon-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=A great cocktail bar with friendly helpful staff. }} * {{drink | name=The Oxford Bar | alt= | url=http://www.oxfordbar.co.uk/ | email= | address=8 Young St EH2 4JB | lat=55.9529 | long=-3.2048 | directions= | phone=+44 131 539-7119 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-midnight | price= | wikipedia=The Oxford Bar | wikidata=Q7755783 | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Trad drouthy Scottish pub, often a setting in the Ian Rankin "Inspector Rebus" novels. }} * {{drink | name=The Kenilworth | alt= | url=https://www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/restaurants/scotlandandnorthernireland/thekenilworthrosestreetedinburgh | email= | address=152-154 Rose Street EH2 3JD | lat=55.9518 | long=-3.2023 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226-1773 | tollfree= | hours=Su-W noon-11PM, Th-Sa noon-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Splendidly tiled and wood-panelled pub. }} * '''[https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/pubs/all-pubs/scotland/edinburgh/the-alexander-graham-bell-edinburgh The Alexander Graham Bell]''' is another JD Wetherspoon, at 128 George Street near Charlotte Square. : '''Broughton Street''' northeast side of New Town has a wide range of bars. * {{drink | name=Mathers | alt= | url= | email= | address=25 Broughton Street EH1 3JU | lat=55.9571 | long=-3.1878 | directions= | phone=+44 131 557-4377 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-11PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Traditional bar with a good range of real ales and whisky, reasonable pub food. Big screen for football and rugby. }} * {{drink | name=The Basement | alt= | url=https://www.basement-bar-edinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=10-12a Broughton Street EH1 3RH | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Mathers | phone=+44 131 557-0097 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 4PM-1AM, F-Su noon-2AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Nowadays specialising in Mexico, so this is the place for tequila or tacos. }} * {{drink | name=Barony Bar | alt= | url=https://www.baronybar.com/ | email= | address=81 Broughton Street EH1 3RJ | lat= | long= | directions=100 yards down from Mathers | phone=+44 131 629-9204 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th noon-11PM, F-Sa noon-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Trad pub, dog-friendly, sometimes has live music. It calls itself a gastropub but customers don't much rate the food. }} * {{drink | name=The Cask & Barrel | alt= | url=https://www.caskandbarrelbroughton.co.uk/ | email= | address=115 Broughton Street EH1 3RZ | lat=55.9592 | long=-3.1903 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556-3132 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=This often features in the novels of Christopher Brookmyre as the pub where journalist "Jack Parlabane" gets tip-offs from the police. The Cask is a proper boozer with a wide selection of' Real Ale plus draft and bottled lagers and whisky. Great place to watch football or rugby as they have half a dozen TV screens. }} * {{drink | name=The Cumberland Bar | alt= | url=https://www.cumberlandbar.co.uk/ | email= | address=1-3 Cumberland Street EH3 6RT | lat=55.9589 | long=-3.1971 | directions= | phone=+44 131 558-3134 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 4:30-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight, Su noon-11PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Readers of Alexander McCall Smith's ''44 Scotland Street'' will recognise this literary haunt. It's a traditional pub popular with New Town locals, students, the suits from local offices, pretty much everyone in fact. Gets very busy in summer thanks to its lovely beer garden - one of the few central pubs to have one. Plenty of drink options and decent food. }} * {{drink | name=Edinburgh Gin Distillery | alt= | url=https://www.edinburghgindistillery.co.uk/ | email= | address=1a Rutland Place EH1 2AD | lat= | long= | directions=next to Waldorf Astoria | phone=+44 131 202-4555 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-4:30PM | price=Basic tour £25 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Micro-distillery producing gin in various styles. In summer 2024 they plan to move to larger premises on Market St near the station. }} * '''[https://www.johnniewalker.com/en-gb/visit-us-princes-street/ Johnnie Walker]''' is the traditional budget blended whisky of the working man. See [[Kilmarnock]] for its history, but that plant has closed down, and it's nowadays made in Glasgow and Leven, and owned by Diageo. The tour centre at 145 Princes St (opposite Waldorf Astoria) reinvents it as a jazzy upmarket experience. Basic tour £30, which would almost buy you two bottles of Red Label to stotious effect. == Sleep == [[File:Dugald Stewart Monument, Calton Hill, Edinburgh.jpg | thumb | Calton Hill looks down on New Town ]] === Budget === * {{sleep | name=easyHotel.com Edinburgh | alt= | url=https://www.easyhotel.com/hotels/united-kingdom/edinburgh/edinburgh | email= | address=125a Princes Street EH2 4AD | lat=55.9508 | long=-3.2045 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226-5303 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £50 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Tiny rooms, but right in the heart of the city facing the castle and Princes Street Gardens. Some rooms have no window. }} * {{sleep | name=Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.hostellingscotland.org.uk/hostels/edinburgh-central/ | email= | address=9 Haddington Place, Leith Walk EH7 4AL | lat=55.9599 | long=-3.1832 | directions= | phone=+44 131 524-2090 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm £23, double room £90 | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Large hostel near the top of Leith Walk, about 10 minutes walk from Waverley Station. It serves meals and the cafe is open to the public. There is also a self-catering kitchen, and plasma screens abound. In addition to dormitories, some rooms (including singles) are available. }} * {{sleep | name=ibis Styles St Andrew Square | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/9058/index.en.shtml | email= | address=19 St Andrew Square EH2 1AU | lat=55.9546 | long=-3.1948 | directions= | phone=+44 131 292-0200 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Good value Accor chain hotel 100 yards from the bus station. }} * {{sleep | name=Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (York Place) | alt= | url=https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/scotland/lothian/edinburgh/edinburgh-city-centre-york-placest-james-quarter.html | email= | address=44 York Place EH1 3HU | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Waverley Station | phone=+44 333 234 6473 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £80 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Reliable chain hotel with spacious rooms for the price, and a/c. Some rooms have views over the New Town and Forth. }} * '''[https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/scotland/lothian/edinburgh/edinburgh-city-centre-waverley.html Premier Inn Waverley]''' is another branch at 24 Rose St. * {{sleep | name=Cityroomz | alt= | url=https://cityroomz.com/ | email= | address=25 Shandwick Place EH2 4RG | lat= | long= | directions=just west of Waldorf Astoria | phone=+44 131 229-6871 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £60 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Bright modern place at the west end of Princes St. }} === Mid-range === * '''[https://www.malmaison.com/locations/edinburgh-city/ Malmaison]''' is at 22 St Andrew Square opposite Ibis Styles. Poor reviews for its ill-lit cramped rooms with nowhere to put your stuff. * {{sleep | name=21212 | alt= | url=https://www.21212restaurant.co.uk/ | email= | address=3 Rothesay Terrace EH3 7RY | lat=55.9569 | long=-3.1809 | directions= | phone=+44 131 523 1030 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Restaurant in a Georgian town house with four rooms. No dogs. }} * {{sleep | name=B+B Edinburgh | alt= | url=https://www.bb-edinburgh.com/ | email= | address=3 Rothesay Terrace EH3 7RY | lat=55.9512 | long=-3.2166 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225 5084 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Traditional hotel with lovely views, but the lift is chronically out of action. }} * {{sleep | name=Tigerlily | alt= | url=https://www.tigerlilyedinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=125 George Street EH2 4JN | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 131 225 5005 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £90 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Jazzy hotel near Charlotte Square, spacious rooms. No dogs. }} * {{sleep | name=21212 | alt= | url=https://www.21212restaurant.co.uk/ | email= | address=3 Rothesay Terrace EH3 7RY | lat=55.9569 | long=-3.1809 | directions= | phone=+44 131 523 1030 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Restaurant in a Georgian town house with four rooms. No dogs. }} * {{sleep | name=The Hoxton | alt=formerly Grosvenor Hotel | url=https://thehoxton.com/edinburgh/ | email= | address=5 Grosvenor Street EH12 5EF | lat= | long= | directions=200 yards north of Haymarket | phone=+44 131 297 2840 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £200 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=The former Grosvenor re-opened in 2025, so it's sparkling fresh and eager to please. }} * {{sleep | name=Parliament House Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.parliamenthouse-hotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=15 Calton Hill EH1 3BJ | lat=55.9542 | long=-3.1861 | directions= | phone=+44 131 478 4000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Quiet backwater off busy streets at the foot of Calton Hill. Comfy and great value, tiny bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Number 11 | alt= | url=https://www.11brunswickst.co.uk/ | email= | address=11 Brunswick St EH7 5JB | lat=55.9588 | long=-3.1796 | directions= | phone=+44 131 557 6910 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Slick welcoming hotel with great dining. }} === Splurge === [[File:Caledonian Hotel (geograph 3417777).jpg | thumb | Waldorf Astoria - The Caledonian]] * {{sleep | name=Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh | alt=The Caledonian | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ednchwa-waldorf-astoria-edinburgh-the-caledonian/ | email= | address=Princes Street EH1 2AB | lat=55.9498 | long=-3.2073 | directions= | phone=+44 131 222-8888 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £220 | wikipedia=Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian | wikidata=Q16256099 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Grand hotel presiding over the west end of Princes St, facing the castle. It was built as the terminus station and hotel for the Caledonian Railway, vying with the rival North British terminus at the east end, now Waverley. The latter became the definitive city terminus, the west end station was demolished in 1970 and "The Caley" was able to expand. Citizens also discovered that it was rose pink, when 70 years of grime was scrubbed off. It earns good but not great reviews for comfort, service and dining in its three restaurants. The property is now owned by an Abu Dhabi holding company but continues to be operated by Hilton. }} * {{sleep | name=InterContinental The George Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/gb/en/edinburgh/edigs/ | email= | address=19-21 George Street EH2 2PB | lat=55.9540 | long=-3.1963 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225-1251 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £210 | wikipedia=The George Hotel (Edinburgh) | wikidata=Q7736172 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=249-room hotel on busy George Street. The hotel was built as townhouses in the 1780s and knocked through into a hotel in 1881. Great scores for comfort, service and location. }} * {{sleep | name=Old Waverley Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oldwaverley.co.uk/ | email=info@oldwaverley.co.uk | address=43 Princes Street EH2 2BY | lat= | long= | directions=opposite station | phone=+44 131 556-4648 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Very central location, but poky old rooms and no lift. }} * {{sleep | name=Balmoral Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel | email=reservations.balmoral@roccofortehotels.com | address=1 Princes Street EH2 2EQ | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=above Waverley Station, lift from concourse | phone=+44 131 556-2414 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £260 | wikipedia=Balmoral Hotel | wikidata=Q3700280 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=This baronial pile opened in 1902 as the terminus and hotel of the North British Railway, just pipping the rival Caledonian at the other end of Princes St. Its landmark clock tower is always three minutes fast to speed dawdlers towards their train. The NB Hotel was rebuilt to become the Balmoral in 1990. Great service and trad ambience, some visitors found it dated. }} * {{sleep | name=Nira Caledonia | alt= | url=https://niracaledonia.com/ | email= | address=10 Gloucester Place EH3 6EF | lat=55.9567 | long=-3.2073 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225-2720 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £180 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Hotel (more like a B&B) at the edge of Stockbridge. Tiny rooms and beds, tall guests will suffer. }} * {{sleep | name=Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.kimptoncharlottesquare.com/ | email= | address=38 Charlotte Square EH2 4HQ | lat=55.9516 | long=-3.2061 | directions= | phone=+44 131 240-5500 | tollfree=+44 800 4444 5566 | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £240 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=On a charming garden squares, this 199-room was seven inter-connecting Georgian townhouses, built in 1791 to a design by Robert Adam, and converted to a hotel in 1881. }} * {{sleep | name=Cheval Edinburgh Grand | alt=formerly Lateral City | url=https://www.chevalcollection.com/cheval-the-edinburgh-grand/ | email= | address=42 St Andrews Square EH2 2AD | lat=55.9539 | long=-3.1915 | directions= | phone=+44 131 230-0570 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £200 | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Plush studios and apartments between railway and bus stations. }} * '''[https://gleneagles.com/townhouse/ Gleneagles Townhouse]''' is at 39 St Andrews Square next to The Edinburgh Grand. Fine decor but poor service. * {{sleep | name=The Glasshouse | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ediak-the-glasshouse-autograph-collection/ | email= | address=2 Greenside Place EH1 3AA | lat= | long= | directions=Omni Centre next to Playhouse | phone=+44 131 525-8200 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £210 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Comfy central hotel, service spasmodic. }} == Connect == New Town like the rest of Edinburgh has 5G from all UK carriers, and Wifi is widely available. All public libraries have internet and printing facilities, see [[Edinburgh#Connect]] for how to access these. There are no branches within New Town, those close by are Central Library on George IV Bridge in Old Town, Stockbridge, and Macdonald Road going down Leith Walk. == Go next == * [[Edinburgh/Old Town|Old Town]] is the unmissable medieval core of Edinburgh, with the Royal Mile stretching from castle to palace. * [[Edinburgh/Stockbridge and Canonmills | Stockbridge ]] has the extensive Botanic Gardens. * Murrayfield rugby stadiums and Hearts football ground are within walking distance to [[Edinburgh/West | the west]]. * Day trips out of town are easily made from the railway and bus stations, see [[Edinburgh#Go next]] for suggestions. {{routebox | image1=UK_road_A1.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=W | majorl1=ENDS AT PRINCES STREET | minorl1= | directionr1=E | minorr1=[[Edinburgh/East|East Edinburgh]] | majorr1=[[Musselburgh]] | image2=UK_road_A7.svg | imagesize2=40 | directionl2=NW | majorl2=ENDS AT PRINCES STREET | minorl2= | directionr2=SE | minorr2=[[Edinburgh/Old Town|Old Town]] | majorr2=[[Dalkeith]] }} {{geo|55.956247|-3.198928|zoom=15}} {{guidedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Edinburgh}} {{Related|UNESCO_World_Heritage_List}} hq4vd0arpl6h0bpahksxcdr29ba4c1p 5091348 5091338 2025-07-11T10:46:44Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Mid-range */ Cafe Calton 5091348 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Edinburgh New Town banner Princes Street from City Chambers.JPG|caption=Princes Street from City Chambers|pgname=New Town of Edinburgh|unesco=yes|dotm=yes}} '''New Town''' of [[Edinburgh]] is 250 years old, in contrast to the [[Edinburgh/Old Town | Old Town]] settled for over a thousand years. It was laid out on a grid pattern in the late 18th century with elegant Georgian townhouses, and the intervening loch was drained to become Princes Street Gardens. It's nowadays Edinburgh's main shopping and commercial district. Along with [[Edinburgh/Old Town | Old Town]], the New Town was listed as a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site]] by UNESCO in 1995. == Understand == [[File:Balmoral Hotel 7 (6897318114).jpg | thumb | Waterloo Place and Balmoral Hotel ]] By the 1600s Edinburgh was crowded and filthy within the walls of the Old Town. The Duke of Albany and York held his nose at it in Holyrood Palace and backed a plan to extend north. But he left town to become the unpopular King James VII / II, was ousted from his throne and launched a series of "Jacobite" counter-coups to regain it, so his support was toxic. The city continued to fester on its crag and to dump its sewage into the Nor Loch. A fresh start was made in the 18th century: the 1707 Union with England made a defensive position unnecessary, and was drawing away the most prosperous and influential people to live in London. Edinburgh needed to re-invent itself as a place to live and work. In 1767 the council adopted the plans of a young architect James Craig (1739-1795). These covered the area that became Princes St, George St and Queen St, and created the grid pattern you see today. By 1820 this tract was populated by expensive private homes, by different builders with individual designs. Charlotte Square at the west end of George Street is the finest example of this first phase, designed by Robert Adam. Streets were added to the north (Great King Street being the best) and northwest (where Moray Place is a superb circle of mansions). Connections were made across the valley to Old Town by a bridge (replaced by the present North Bridge in 1897) and a midway embankment, The Mound. The West End was built in the 1860s and 1870s. Shared private gardens were a major part of the plans - Princes Street Gardens began this way, and its owners prevented any construction south of the street that might spoil their view. They likewise tried to prevent the railway from linking the east and west terminuses but were defeated by 1846. These gardens and St Andrew Square are now public parks, but many remain private, such as Queen Street Gardens, Dean Gardens, and the centres of many squares and crescents. The original tract between Princes Street and Queen Street is now mainly shops and offices and has lost many original buildings. Princes Street itself is a sorry contrast: its view south, central Mound and bookending railway hotels are grand, but the retail strip along its north side is utterly mediocre. East of St Andrew Square was redeveloped for the drab St James shopping centre, and the street pattern was obliterated. The rest of New Town is still mainly residential, though its original townhouses have mostly been divided into flats. == Get in == {{Mapframe | 55.955 | -3.205 | height=500 | width=650 | zoom=14 }} {{Mapmask|55.9563,-3.1723|55.9558,-3.1731|55.9536,-3.1784|55.9515,-3.1882|55.9512,-3.1918|55.9511,-3.1946|55.9498,-3.2020|55.9487,-3.2047|55.9489,-3.2052|55.9490,-3.2067|55.9458,-3.2055|55.9457,-3.2083|55.9458,-3.2095|55.9460,-3.2106|55.9461,-3.2118|55.9461,-3.2172|55.9459,-3.2178|55.9459,-3.2234|55.9472,-3.2234|55.9486,-3.2238|55.9492,-3.2241|55.9491,-3.2255|55.9494,-3.2278|55.9498,-3.2277|55.9500,-3.2271|55.9504,-3.2283|55.9511,-3.2294|55.9512,-3.2291|55.9524,-3.2312|55.9529,-3.2275|55.9537,-3.2294|55.9546,-3.2306|55.9554,-3.2305|55.9558,-3.2231|55.9559,-3.2229|55.9562,-3.2220|55.9563,-3.2209|55.9564,-3.2166|55.9558,-3.2162|55.9568,-3.2145|55.9568,-3.2142|55.9568,-3.2137|55.9557,-3.2120|55.9558,-3.2117|55.9563,-3.2112|55.9565,-3.2108|55.9561,-3.2101|55.9562,-3.2096|55.9570,-3.2081|55.9573,-3.2070|55.9572,-3.2064|55.9575,-3.2062|55.9577,-3.2060|55.9580,-3.2055|55.9581,-3.2052|55.9581,-3.2032|55.9582,-3.2033|55.9584,-3.2032|55.9587,-3.2029|55.9590,-3.2021|55.9596,-3.1984|55.9596,-3.1972|55.9597,-3.1966|55.9601,-3.1959|55.9606,-3.1954|55.9606,-3.1950|55.9611,-3.1953|55.9613,-3.1946|55.9614,-3.1944|55.9601,-3.1918|55.9611,-3.1909|55.9619,-3.1874|55.9619,-3.1871|55.9638,-3.1834|55.9626,-3.1814|55.9619,-3.1798|55.9617,-3.1787|55.9616,-3.1776|55.9616,-3.1757|55.9616,-3.1737|55.9615,-3.1716|55.9616,-3.1711|55.9576,-3.1721|55.9563,-3.1723}} {{marker | name=Waverley Station | type=go | lat=55.9520 | long=-3.1897 }} is at the east end of Princes St, with trains from all parts: see [[Edinburgh#Get in]] for routes. Buses and trams from the airport stop outside Waverley station. The tram continues northwest to Leith and local buses fan out to all parts of the city. {{marker | name=Edinburgh Bus Station | type=go | wikidata=Q5338154 }} is 200 yards north of Waverley, terminus of all inter-city buses. {{marker | name=Haymarket Station | type=go | lat=55.9457 | long=-3.2186 }} is more convenient for the west end of New Town. All trains from the west (for instance Glasgow) stop here. Never bring a car into New Town unless you've planned ahead for where you might park. From 1 June 2024, most of the New Town is in a [https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/lez Low Emission Zone], with camera-enforced penalties for entering in a non-compliant vehicle. Cars built after 2015 are generally compliant, but check [https://www.lowemissionzones.scot/ online]. Walking is usually the best way to get around New Town, but it extends 2 miles east-west, and then there's the slopes up to the Old Town or down towards Stockbridge to be negotiated. == See == * {{see | name=Calton Hill | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1199959 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=This is the stubby crag just east of Princes Street: a short stroll up it commands great views. The "National Monument", a memorial to Scots killed in the Napoleonic Wars, was an attempt to out-do the Parthenon in Athens but the money ran out with only the west facade built. Nelson's Tower was built 1807-16 in the shape of an upturned telescope in honour of the naval hero. A Time Ball on the mast drops at 1PM every day just as the One O'Clock Gun is fired from the castle - this gives a time signal to ships in the Firth before the sound rolls out to them, or it would if not obscured by drizzle and the ships in possession of reliable watches. It was operated by the adjacent City Observatory, superseded in 1896 by the Royal Observatory in the [[Edinburgh/South| south]] of the city. City Observatory remained active until 2009 then was refurbished as the [https://www.collective-edinburgh.art/ Collective Gallery] exhibition space for modern art. }} * {{see | name=Old Calton Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Waterloo Place EH1 3BQ | lat=55.9536 | long=-3.1862 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-5PM | price= | wikipedia=Old Calton Burial Ground | wikidata=Q7083575 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Atmospheric Georgian graves, memorials, and funerary ornaments. Memorials include those to the philosopher David Hume (1711-1776), to the Scots who died in the American Civil War, and to the Martyrs of Reform imprisoned or transported for sedition in the 1790s for calling for the right to vote. }} * {{see | name=St Andrew's & St George's West Church | alt= | url=https://www.stagw.org.uk/ | email=info@stagw.org.uk | address=13 George Street EH2 2PA | lat= | long= | directions=next to Intercontinental Hotel | phone=+44 131 225-3847 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-2PM | price=Free | wikipedia=St Andrew's and St George's West Church | wikidata=Q7592411 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Completed in 1784, this is the parish church of the New Town. It's Italianate with an unusual elliptical interior, with an ornate ceiling blending Roman, Pompeian and Scottish elements. The steeple holds Scotland's oldest complete peal of bells, cast in 1788. In 1843 this church was the scene of The Great Disruption, when a third of ministers broke with the Presbyterian Church of Scotland to found their own Free Kirk. St George's Church was part of the breakaway, but there was a reconciliation in the 20th century, and in 2013 that congregation merged here. The Undercroft Cafe has homemade food M-F 10:30AM-2PM. }} [[File:The Scott Monument, Princes Street Gardens.jpg | thumb | Scott Monument ]] * {{see | name=Scott Monument | alt= | url=https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venues/scott-monument | email= | address=East Princes Street Gardens EH2 2EJ | lat=55.9524 | long=-3.1933 | directions= | phone=+44 131 529-4068 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10-12:30AM, 2-4PM | price=Adult £8, child £6 | wikipedia=Scott Monument | wikidata=Q2502213 | lastedit=2023-12-23 | content=Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832) re-invented Scotland. In the late Georgian era, he popularised tales of its medieval and Jacobean tumults, and created the clan tartans you buy on Princes St. This grand Gothic memorial, part cathedral part moon rocket, was completed in 1846 to dominate the east end of Princes St. It's 200 ft 6 in / 61.1 m tall, and guided tours take you up 287 steps (no lift) to the top platform, for a closer look at many of the statuettes of characters from Scott's works. The man himself and his dog sit in state at the base. In the 1990s the curators considered cleaning the monument but realised that the Victorian grime was holding it together, so replacement stonework is prominently white. }} * {{see | name=Royal Scottish Academy | alt= | url=https://www.royalscottishacademy.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2070445 | lastedit=2024-01-06 | content=is an august neo-classical building on The Mound, fronting onto Princes St, and its main function is to be confused with the National Gallery behind. The RSA is a separate organisation promoting contemporary Scottish art. The building hosts temporary exhibitions but doesn't have a permanent display - the Academy's extensive collection is dispersed across many galleries. That might include your own home, as they run an art rental scheme. }} * {{see | name=National Galleries of Scotland: National | alt= | url=https://www.nationalgalleries.org/visit/scottish-national-gallery | email= | address=The Mound EH2 2EL | lat=55.9509 | long=-3.1956 | directions= | phone=+44 131 624-6200 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Free, charges for major temporary exhibitions | wikipedia=Scottish National Gallery | wikidata=Q942713 | lastedit=2024-05-26 | content=This holds much of Scotland's fine artwork from Renaissance to 20th century, with changing exhibitions. These rotate seasonally, so an exhibition put on for the Festival typically stays to the end of the year, allowing quieter times to view. Enter from the plaza between gallery and Royal Scottish Academy, and a basement passage connects the two exhibition spaces. The Scottish Galleries on the lowest floor reopened in 2023 after several years of redevelopment, and show a good collection of local work and views which may inspire trips. }} * {{see | name=National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait | alt= | url=https://www.nationalgalleries.org/visit/scottish-national-portrait-gallery | email=enquiries@nationalgalleries.org | address=1 Queen Street EH2 1JD | lat=55.9555 | long=-3.1936 | directions= | phone=+44 131 624-6200 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish National Portrait Gallery | wikidata=Q2441562 | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Completed in 1890, this is a striking red sandstone neo-Gothic building. It holds portraits of Scots from down the ages, with new faces being added all the time: Billy Connolly and Tilda Swinton mingle with Mary Queen of Scots. The entrance hall has a grand frieze of notable Scots in procession. }} * {{see | name=Princes Street Gardens | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.9511 | long=-3.2007 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q980646 | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content=The west portion fills the valley beyond the Mound, spanning the railway tracks to the foot of castle crag. The east portion is the terrace around the Scott Monument. They were laid out in the 1820s as private gardens for residents of the street: occupants of bath chairs required a medical certificate that their condition was not contagious. Their initial opening to the public was solely at Christmas and New Year, in the belief that this would distract people from the pubs and reduce drunkenness. In 1876 they became a public park and were re-landscaped and dotted with statues. By this time the gardens were already bisected by railway tracks, the price that had to be paid to finally link the east and west railway terminuses. The gardens are open 24 hours. }} * {{see | name=The Georgian House | alt= | url=https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/georgian-house | email= | address=7 Charlotte Square EH2 4DR | lat=55.9524 | long=-3.2083 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225-2160 | tollfree= | hours=March F-Su 10AM-4PM, April-Oct daily 10AM-5PM | price=Adult £12, conc £7, NTS / NT free | wikipedia=The Georgian House, Edinburgh | wikidata=Q7736202 | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=This townhouse was designed by Robert Adam, completed in 1796 and has been furnished in the style of its first owner John Lamont. Its last private owner the Marquess of Bute also acquired adjacent townhouses and along with the other owners got the entire north facade of the square restored to Adams' imposing original design. Visit by self-guided tour, and in mid-summer you need to book as it sells out. }} * {{see | name=Charlotte Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5086152 | lastedit=2024-01-06 | content=In front of the house is the mirror-image of St Andrew's Square at the east end of George St. Bute House at Number 6, next door to The Georgian House, is the official residence of the First Minister of Scotland, so you might see a motorcade, TV cameras and armed security outside. The gardens in the square are private. Prince Albert stands in the middle, with his view down the street somewhat impeded by mature trees. }} [[File:The Water of Leith at the Dean Village (51131080460).jpg | thumb | The Water of Leith powered mills in Dean Village ]] * {{see | name=Gilbert the Phone Box | alt= | url=https://www.stewartchristie.com/ | email= | address=63 Queen St EH2 4NA | lat=55.9537 | long=-3.2050 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Key available Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM | price=Donation £3 | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=An old red phone box has been kitted out with Edwardian memorabilia, and nicknamed for Sir Giles Gilbert Scott (1880-1960) designer of the box. You can look in the windows anytime, or collect the key for £3 (for Save the Children) from Stewart Christie and Co who run a long established gentleman's outfitter in the shop next to it. }} * {{see | name=James Clerk Maxwell's Birthplace | alt= | url=https://clerkmaxwellfoundation.org/html/QRindex.html | email= | address=14 India Street EH3 6EZ | lat=55.9553 | long=-3.2057 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=By appointment M-F | price=Donation | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Isaac Newton realised that what caused the apple to fall was the very same force moving the moon, planets and stars. James Clerk Maxwell (1831-1879) was born in this house, before the family moved to Kirkcudbright. He was intensely curious about how nature worked and made a "great unification" of equal importance to Newton's: that magnetism, electricity, light and heat are all manifestations of the same electromagnetic spectrum. And this spectrum must contain other frequencies beyond human sensing: hence X-rays and radio waves, and the entire science of telecommunications. He made possible Einstein's 20th century unification of gravity, mass and energy, and contributed to many other fields of enquiry. The Foundation has preserved this townhouse with his memorabilia. His statue stands at the east end of George St and a laboratory block is named for him on the Edinburgh University science campus. }} * {{see | name=Dean Village | alt= | url=https://deanvillage.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5246524 | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content=It is an attractive hamlet down in the dene - the steep valley - of the Water of Leith. It was the medieval crossing point on the route from Edinburgh to South Queensferry, and is the main access point for this section of the Water of Leith Walkway (described below). The fast-descending stream drove 11 grain mills here, so it was the powerbase for the Baxters, the bakers' merchant guild. The present bridge across the stream was built in the 18th century, only just wide enough for a horse and cart. The village declined in the 19th century when bigger flour mills were built at Leith, and bypassed in 1833 when Telford's Dean Bridge spanned the valley; the Belford Bridge was added upstream in 1887. Dean village therefore never developed modern roads or industry, so its charming core was preserved. }} * {{see | name=Dean Bridge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.9531 | long=-3.2144 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5246025 | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content=is best seen from below in Dean Village as you follow the walkway along the stream - from the top it's just a busy thoroughfare. Crossing in four arches 107 ft / 32 m above the stream, it was Telford's last major project. As well as improving the route to Fife, it made the north bank into prime real estate, so elegant terraces were built there. }} * {{see | name=National Galleries of Scotland: Modern One | alt= | url=https://www.nationalgalleries.org/visit/scottish-national-gallery-modern-art | email=enquiries@nationalgalleries.org | address=74 Belford Rd EH4 3DR | lat=55.9509 | long=-3.2276 | directions=Bus 13 | phone=+44 131 624-6200 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art | wikidata=Q1889944 | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=The original modern art gallery, established in 1960, was in the Botanic Gardens. In 1895 it moved into this neoclassical building, originally a refuge for fatherless children, and in 1999 it expanded across the road into the neoclassical orphanage now known as Modern Two. The gardens of Modern One have been sculpted. Both buildings have extensive contemporary collections and most visitors find that seeing one of them is plenty for an afternoon. }} [[Image:SNGMA The Building.jpg | thumb | Modern One ]] * {{see | name=Modern Two | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2679817 | lastedit=2024-01-06 | content=Opposite side of Belford Rd has a slightly smaller collection, but enough to infuriate about one-in-five reviewers, who rage that their kids' drawings stuck on the fridge door are better. A neon sign in the garden reassures all and sundry that "There will be no miracles". The gallery was closed over winter 22/23 to reduce heating costs, a situation that the shivering orphans would appreciate, but remained open in winter 23/24. }} * {{see | name=St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral | alt= | url=https://www.cathedral.net/ | email= | address=Palmerston Place EH12 5AW | lat=55.9484 | long=-3.2166 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225-6293 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 8-8:30AM, Su 8AM-4PM | price= | wikipedia=St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh (Episcopal) | wikidata=Q2324015 | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=This stonking great neo-Gothic church was completed in 1879, designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott, with the towers added in 1917. It's the senior Episcopal church in Scotland, within the Anglican tradition of bishops (and much else) that the Presbyterians rejected. It has daily choral services: the song school (open occasionally) has stunning murals by Phoebe Anna Traquair. }} * {{see | name=St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral | alt= | url=https://www.stmaryscathedral.co.uk/ | email= | address=61 York Place EH1 3JD | lat=55.9561 | long=-3.1879 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556-1798 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 8:30AM-6:30PM, Sa Su 8:30AM-7:30PM | price= | wikipedia=St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh (Roman Catholic) | wikidata=Q519072 | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=The Roman Catholic Cathedral was established as a chapel in 1814 and became a cathedral in 1886 for the archdiocese of Edinburgh and St Andrews. It was designed by James Gillespie Graham in neo-perpendicular style and has undergone several alterations and extensions - in the 1970s the tenements that hemmed it in were demolished. There are services twice daily in English and daily in Polish. }} * {{see | name=Sherlock Holmes | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=55.95658 | long=-3.18697 | directions=stands in the plaza outside the cathedral | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content=His creator Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930) was born nearby at 11 Picardy Place, to a genteel but impoverished Irish Catholic family. His first Sherlock story was published in 1886. The statue was in storage while the plaza was remodelled around the tramlines but restored in June 2023. }} == Do == [[Image:New Town Door.JPG| thumb | Townhouse door in New Town]] * {{marker | name=[https://www.assemblyroomsedinburgh.co.uk/ Assembly Rooms] | type=do | lat=55.9529 | long=-3.1987 }} are a large events venue at 54 George St. This grand neoclassical building was completed in 1787, with the inaugural event a Hunt Ball. Its principal spaces are the Music Room (capacity 788) and the Ball Room (capacity 400), with nine other classily decorated rooms. It's in constant use for private and public functions and a major site during the Festival. The building is owned by the council but run by a separate company. * {{do | name=Edinburgh Playhouse | alt= | url=https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/edinburgh-playhouse/ | email= | address=18-22 Greenside Place EH1 3AA | lat=55.9568 | long=-3.1852 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Edinburgh Playhouse | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Built as a cinema in 1929 and refurbished in 1980, this is now Scotland's largest performance space, with a capacity of 3059. That's about 1000 more than can comfortably be seated and 2000 more than they have toilet provision for. It's run by ATG, Ambassador Theatre Group. }} * {{do | name=Vue | alt= | url=https://www.myvue.com/cinema/edinburgh-omni-centre/whats-on | email= | address=61 Greenside Place, Leith Walk EH1 3AU | lat=55.95625 | long=-3.18589 | directions=within Omni Centre next to Playhouse | phone=+44 345 308 4620 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Large multiplex cinema showing mainstream releases. }} * {{do | name=Stand Comedy Club | alt= | url=https://www.thestand.co.uk/whats-on/edinburgh | email= | address= | lat=55.95572 | long=-3.19231 | directions=is in a basement at 5 York Place, east end of Queen St where the trams make a sharp turn | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-01-06 | content= }} * '''Water of Leith Walkway''' follows the stream from Balerno at the southwest edge of the city down through Colinton, Saughton and Murrayfield, to flow under the Glasgow road and form the boundary of New Town. Follow the east / south bank under Coltbridge Viaduct and Belford Bridge, crossing banks and continuing into Dean Village. The following section is described as part of [[Edinburgh/Stockbridge and Canonmills#Do | Stockbridge]] and the final stretch as part of [[Edinburgh/Leith#Do | Leith]]. The New Town and Stockbridge sections are too narrow for cycling, cut onto adjacent streets. ''Use the layers button ([[File:Inkscape icons dialog layers.svg|24px]] below the full screen button) and activate "Hiking" to see the walkway on the map''. == Buy == === Princes Street === : This is the main shopping street in Edinburgh, running from Waverley railway station to Lothian Road. Lots of chain stores here. George Street 200 yards north has more upmarket shops, plus bars and restaurants. * {{buy | name=St James Quarter | alt= | url=https://stjamesquarter.com/ | email= | address= | lat=55.9542 | long=-3.1884 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St. James Centre | wikidata=Q7588445 | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Shopping centre which opened in 2021, replacing the tired St James Centre, includes [http://www.johnlewis.com/ John Lewis] department store, and 3 floors of mid- and up-market chain stores. Also here are the W Hotel, [https://www.roomzzz.com/aparthotels/edinburgh Roomzzz aparthotel] and several restaurants. Too bad about the curling tapered roof sculpture, which looks like a . . . well, enough to spoil the view. }} * '''[https://www.multreeswalk.co.uk/ Multrees Walk]''' is a mall just south of the bus station, connecting St James Quarter with St Andrew Square. Stores here include [http://www.harveynichols.com/ Harvey Nichols], Louis Vuitton, Burberry and Canada Goose. * {{buy | name=Waverley Market | alt= | url=https://waverleymarketedin.com | email= | address=3/48 Waverley Bridge EH1 1BQ | lat=55.952778 | long=-3.191667 | directions=above station | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-8PM | price= | wikidata=Q7244460 | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Upmarket mainstream shops in a covered mall above Waverley station. }} * '''Dundas St''' is the north continuation of Hanover St, descending to Canonmills. Its upper section is lined with art galleries: these are commercial selling galleries (hours vary) but they're happy for you just to browse around. They include [https://www.openeyegallery.co.uk/ Open Eye], [https://www.arushagallery.com/ Arusha], [https://scottish-gallery.co.uk/ Scottish Gallery], [https://www.greyfriarsart.co.uk/ Greyfriars Art], [https://birchtreegallery.co.uk/ Birch Tree], [https://www.torrancegallery.co.uk/ Torrance Gallery] and [https://www.fettesfineart.com/ Fettes Fine Art]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Lower down are several antique shops. * {{buy | name=Slater Menswear | alt= | url=http://www.slaters.co.uk/stores/index/view/?id=18 | email= | address=100 George Street EH2 3DF | lat=55.9524 | long=-3.2028 | directions= | phone=+44 131 220-3223 | tollfree= | hours=M-W F Sa 8:30AM-5:30PM, Th 8:30AM-8:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Eastern outpost of the famous Glasgow institution. Broad range at keen prices with helpful service. }} * '''[https://edinburgh-westend.co.uk/shopping/ West End]''' of Princes St has a retail strip in the block bounded by Queensferry St, Shandwick Place, William Street and Stafford Street. * {{buy | name=Paper Tiger | alt= | url=https://www.papertiger.co.uk | email= | address=6a Stafford St EH3 7AU | lat=55.9495 | long=-3.2112 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226-2390 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-6PM, Su 11AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Classy selection of cards, home accessories, toys and gifts. Their other branches are at 53 Lothian Rd and 194 Morningside Rd. }} === Broughton Street === [[File:Ross Fountain Princes St Gardens 02.jpg | thumb | Ross Fountain in Princes Street Gardens ]] : This is a boho street at the northeast end of New Town, with a variety of independent shops, bars and restaurants. * {{buy | name=The Dragonfly | alt= | url=https://www.instagram.com/thedragonflygifts/ | email= | address=111a Broughton Street EH1 3RZ | lat=55.959014 | long=-3.190251 | directions=Next to Cask & Barrel pub | phone=+44 131 629-4246 | tollfree= | hours=M-F noon-6PM, Sa Su 11AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Funky little shop with a lovely range of cards and gifts. }} * {{buy | name=Crombies | alt= | url=https://www.crombiesofedinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=97 Broughton Street H1 3RZ | lat=55.958717 | long=-3.189780 | directions=100 yards up from Cask & Barrel | phone=+44 131 557-0111 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 7AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Award-winning butchers shop, established 1955. Great quality local meat, especially their range of sausages. }} * {{buy | name=Real Foods | alt= | url=https://www.realfoods.co.uk | email= | address=37 Broughton Street EH1 3JU | lat=55.957278 | long=-3.188126 | directions=20 yards down from Mathers Bar | phone=+44 131 557-1911 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-7PM, Su 10AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=The original Edinburgh "health food" shop, opened in 1975. Sells a wide range of loose and packet dried goods, some vegetarian ready meals and snacks and a small selection of organic fruit and veg. }} === Leith Walk === : This descends from the east end of Princes St and runs all the way down to Leith, with the trams rumbling along it. * {{buy | name=Valvona & Crolla | alt= | url=https://www.valvonacrolla.co.uk/ | email= | address=19 Elm Row, Leith Walk EH7 4AA | lat=55.9587 | long=-3.1834 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556-6066 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Legendary Italian deli founded in 1934. Its grey frontage is unassuming, but it stretches back through a wonderland of food. There's a small bright cafe in the back, where you'll be lucky to get seated. }} * {{buy | name=Vinyl Villains | alt= | url=https://www.vinylvillains.co.uk/ | email= | address=5 Elm Row, Leith Walk EH7 4AA | lat=55.958281 | long=-3.183700 | directions=50 yards up from Valvona & Crolla | phone=+44 131 558-1170 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:30AM-6PM, Su 1-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Second-hand vinyl record shop with a great selection, quality stock and reasonable prices. They also have CDs, T-shirts, posters and fanzines. }} * {{buy | name=Harburn Hobbies | alt= | url=https://www.harburnhobbies.co.uk/ | email= | address=67 Elm Row, Leith Walk EH7 4AQ | lat=55.9605 | long=-3.1814 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556-3233 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Family-run business established in the 1930s. Specialises in model railways, including some items exclusive to this shop. Also die-cast model vehicles, Scalextric slot car racing systems and plastic and wooden model construction kits. }} == Eat == [[File:3 to 5 Moray Place, Edinburgh.JPG | thumb | Moray Place ]] === Budget === * {{eat | name=Snax | alt= | url=https://snaxcafe.com | email= | address=15 West Register Street EH2 2AA | lat= | long= | directions=behind Cafe Royal | phone=+44 131 557 8688 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 7AM-3PM, Su 7:30-2PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=A small fast-food joint, limited seating. The food is cheap and edible, with a decent vegetarian selection. }} * {{eat | name=Cafe Piccante | alt= | url=https://cafepiccante.co.uk/Home | email= | address=19 Broughton St EH1 3JU | lat=55.956935 | long=-3.187822 | directions=next to Mathers Bar | phone=+44 131 478 7884 | tollfree= | hours=M-F noon-2AM, Sa Su 3PM-2AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Unashamed specialists in late-night greasy food, friendly staff and a DJ at weekends. The burgers are a stand-out and deep-fried mars bars are available for tourists. }} === Mid-range === * {{eat | name=Cafe Royal | alt= | url=https://www.caferoyaledinburgh.com/ | email= | address=19 West Register Street EH2 2AA | lat=55.9538 | long=-3.1905 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556 1884 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Beautifully tiled Victorian palace of a pub, designed in 1862 as a showroom for the latest fixtures and fittings, no dogs. The stylish restaurant serves seafood and other classics. }} * {{eat | name=Dishoom | alt= | url=https://www.dishoom.com/edinburgh/ | email= | address=3a St Andrew Square EH2 2BD | lat=55.953543 | long=-3.192513 | directions=50 yards west of Edinburgh Grand | phone=+44 131 202 6406 | tollfree= | hours=Su-W 8AM-11PM, Th-Sa 8AM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Scottish outpost of a small national chain, modelling their interiors on colonial Bombay cafes. The food is made to share, mostly consisting of small plates, with the house chaat, black daal and salli botti particularly memorable. Often busy, but they can usually squeeze you in, remember those Bombay buses and commuter trains. }} * {{eat | name=The Dome | alt= | url=https://www.thedomeedinburgh.com | email= | address=14 George Street EH2 2PF | lat=55.953516 | long=-3.195541 | directions=opposite Intercontinental The George | phone=+44 131 624 8624 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Bar and grill in a former bank headquarters with grand exterior and impressive interior. }} * {{eat | name=Pizza Pilgrims | alt= | url=https://www.pizzapilgrims.co.uk/pizzerias/edinburgh/ | email= | address=7 Rose Street EH2 2PR | lat=55.953232 | long=-3.194911 | directions=block west of St Andrew Square | phone=+44 131 227 7186 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:30AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2025-06-03 | content=This Neapolitan-style chain pizzeria in 2025 opened its Edinburgh outlet to much hype. It's good not great. }} * {{eat | name=Mussel Inn | alt= | url=https://www.mussel-inn.com | email= | address=61-65 Rose Street EH2 2NH | lat=55.952521 | long=-3.199078 | directions=behind Assembly Rooms | phone=+44 131 225 5979 | tollfree= | hours=M-F noon-2:30PM, 5-10PM, Sa Su noon-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Seafood restaurant owned by shellfish producers, ingredients direct from the west coast. }} * {{eat | name=Dulse | alt= | url=https://www.dulse.co.uk/ | email= | address=17 Queensferry St EH2 4QW | lat=55.950861 | long=-3.209995 | directions= | phone=+44 1738 718387 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu 5PM-midnight, W-Su noon-midnight | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=This serves excellent Scottish seafood. }} * {{eat | name=Teuchters | alt= | url=https://teuchtersbar.co.uk/ | email= | address=26 William Street EH3 7NH | lat=55.9493 | long=-3.2123 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225 2973 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Lively pub serving modern Scottish cuisine at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Café Marlayne | alt= | url=https://www.cafemarlayne.com/ | email= | address=76 Thistle Street EH2 1EN | lat=55.9537 | long=-3.2003 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226 2230 | tollfree= | hours=Tu 6-10PM, W-Sa noon-3PM, 6-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Chic cosy French bistro serving up excellent French cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Cafe St Honoré | alt= | url=https://www.cafesthonore.com/ | email= | address=Thistle Street North West Lane EH2 1EA | lat= | long= | directions=alley opposite Cafe Marlayne | phone=+44 131 226 2211 | tollfree= | hours=Th-Sa noon-2PM, 5-9:30PM, Su 6-8PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Great continental food and wine. Gluten free and dairy free menus available. }} * {{eat | name=Contini | alt= | url=https://www.contini.com/ | email= | address=103 George St EH2 3ES | lat=55.952761 | long=-3.203008 | directions=opposite Slaters | phone=+44 131 225 1550 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9AM-11PM, Sa 10AM-11PM, Su 10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Restaurant in a former grand banking hall serving wonderful Italian food. }} * '''[https://www.aizle.co.uk/ Aizle]''', opened in 2021, is modern Scottish cuisine. It's at 38 Charlotte Square and open W-Su 5-9PM. * '''[https://notoedinburgh.co.uk/ Noto]''' at 47a Thistle St is sister to Aizle. They serve excellent Japanese-themed dishes for sharing; open Su-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight. * {{eat | name=Fhior | alt= | url=https://fhior.com/ | email= | address=36 Broughton St EH1 3SB | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Barony Bar | phone=+44 131 477 5000 | tollfree= | hours=Th 6:30-10PM, F-Su noon-2:30PM, 6:30-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Beautiful Scandi cuisine, locally sourced and artfully presented. }} * '''Number 11''' is a hotel brasserie (see Sleep) at 11 Brunswick St, serving non-residents W-F 5-9PM, Sa Su noon-3PM, 5-9PM. * {{eat | name=Holy Cow | alt= | url=https://holycow.cafe/ | email= | address=34 Elder St EH1 3DX | lat= | long= | directions=behind bus station | phone=+44 131 629 7057 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th noon-10PM, F-Su 10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2025-06-03 | content=Excellent basement vegan cafe. Home-made food. }} * '''[https://lylaedinburgh.co.uk/ Lyla]''' is fine dining at 3 Royal Terrace. * '''[https://www.cafecalton.com/ Cafe Calton]''' is perched atop Calton Hill, with magnificent views. It's open daily 8:30AM-9:30PM. === Splurge === [[File:Balmoral Hotel by Night.jpg | thumb | Balmoral Hotel ]] * '''The Balmoral''' above Waverley Station (see Sleep) has three dining areas: ** [https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel/dining/palm-court/ Palm Court] serves afternoon tea daily 9AM-5PM, with live harp music. ** [https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel/dining/brasserie-prince/ Brasserie Prince] is a slick French-style bistro, daily 7AM-10PM. ** [https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel/dining/number-one/ Number One] is fine dining, modern Scots, Th-M 6-9:30PM. * '''George Hotel''' main restaurant The Printing Press has closed for rebuilding until 2025. Le Petit Beefbar is their steakhouse open daily 12:30-3:30PM, 5:30-9:30PM. Burr & Co coffee shop only serves dinner to residents. * '''Waldorf Astoria''' west end of Princes St (see Sleep) has two restaurants: ** [https://www.markgreenaway.com/grazing-restaurant Grazing] is modern Scottish fare (chef Mark Greenaway), Tu-Sa 6-9PM. ** [https://www.deanbanks.co.uk/ The Pompadour] is continental cuisine (chef Dean Banks), Th 5PM-midnight, F-Su noon-3PM, 5-PM-midnight. * {{eat | name=The Palmerston | alt= | url=https://www.thepalmerstonedinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=1 Palmerston Place EH12 5AF | lat=55.9473 | long=-3.2151 | directions= | phone=+44 131 220-1794 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 9AM-2:30PM, 6-10PM, Su 9AM-3:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Chicly decorated restaurant and bakery in a former bank, the menu changes daily. }} == Drink == : '''George Street''' is the main drinking strip, along with the St Andrews Square area, the cross streets, and the two parallel pedestrian alleys Rose St south and Thistle / Hill / Young St north. Those alleys in turn have sub-alley loops, where dazed stag and hen parties mill and meander. * {{drink | name=Voodoo Rooms | alt= | url=https://www.thevoodoorooms.com/ | email=info@thevoodoorooms.com | address=19a West Register Street H2 2AA | lat=55.953732 | long=-3.190592 | directions=behind Cafe Royal | phone=+44 131 556-7060 | tollfree= | hours=W Th 5PM-1AM, F Su 3PM-1AM, Sa 1PM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Over-the-top decor in this quirky pub, sometimes has live entertainment, mixed reviews for the food. }} * {{drink | name=All Bar One | alt= | url=https://www.allbarone.co.uk/national-search/scotland-and-northern-ireland/all-bar-one-george-street-edinburgh | email= | address=29-31 George Street EH2 2PA | lat=55.953776 | long=-3.197077 | directions=next to Intercontinental The George | phone=+44 131 226-9971 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 9AM-11PM, F Sa 9AM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Chain pub with slick service and good ale and meals. }} * {{drink | name=Eastside | alt= | url=https://www.eastsideedinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=51 George Street EH2 2HT | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Assembly Rooms | phone=+44 131 226-2275 | tollfree= | hours=Su-F 9PM-3AM, Sa 5PM-3AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Busy cocktail bar and night entertainment spot. }} * {{drink | name=The Standing Order | alt= | url=https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/pubs/all-pubs/scotland/edinburgh/the-standing-order-edinburgh | email= | address=62-66 George St EH2 2LR | lat= | long= | directions=next to Assembly Rooms | phone=+44 131 225-4460 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8AM-1PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=A cavernous converted bank building. It's part of the JD Wetherspoon chain and always has a wide range of inexpensive drinks and pub food. }} * '''[https://www.pandaandsons.com/ Panda & Sons]''' is a cocktail bar at 79 Queen St, corner with Charlotte Square, which claims to be "pushing the bounds of cocktail theory" so you might be in for a nosebleed. It's open Tu-Su 4PM-1AM. [[File:Rathbone as Holmes - F&R.png | thumb | Sherlock Holmes' statue is in Picardy Place, surveying the Broughton St pubs ]] * {{drink | name=Tonic | alt= | url=https://www.bar-tonic.co.uk/ | email= | address=34a North Castle St EH2 3BN | lat=55.9527 | long=-3.2040 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225-6431 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 5PM-1AM, F-Su noon-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=A great cocktail bar with friendly helpful staff. }} * {{drink | name=The Oxford Bar | alt= | url=http://www.oxfordbar.co.uk/ | email= | address=8 Young St EH2 4JB | lat=55.9529 | long=-3.2048 | directions= | phone=+44 131 539-7119 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-midnight | price= | wikipedia=The Oxford Bar | wikidata=Q7755783 | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Trad drouthy Scottish pub, often a setting in the Ian Rankin "Inspector Rebus" novels. }} * {{drink | name=The Kenilworth | alt= | url=https://www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/restaurants/scotlandandnorthernireland/thekenilworthrosestreetedinburgh | email= | address=152-154 Rose Street EH2 3JD | lat=55.9518 | long=-3.2023 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226-1773 | tollfree= | hours=Su-W noon-11PM, Th-Sa noon-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Splendidly tiled and wood-panelled pub. }} * '''[https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/pubs/all-pubs/scotland/edinburgh/the-alexander-graham-bell-edinburgh The Alexander Graham Bell]''' is another JD Wetherspoon, at 128 George Street near Charlotte Square. : '''Broughton Street''' northeast side of New Town has a wide range of bars. * {{drink | name=Mathers | alt= | url= | email= | address=25 Broughton Street EH1 3JU | lat=55.9571 | long=-3.1878 | directions= | phone=+44 131 557-4377 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-11PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Traditional bar with a good range of real ales and whisky, reasonable pub food. Big screen for football and rugby. }} * {{drink | name=The Basement | alt= | url=https://www.basement-bar-edinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=10-12a Broughton Street EH1 3RH | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Mathers | phone=+44 131 557-0097 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 4PM-1AM, F-Su noon-2AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Nowadays specialising in Mexico, so this is the place for tequila or tacos. }} * {{drink | name=Barony Bar | alt= | url=https://www.baronybar.com/ | email= | address=81 Broughton Street EH1 3RJ | lat= | long= | directions=100 yards down from Mathers | phone=+44 131 629-9204 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th noon-11PM, F-Sa noon-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=Trad pub, dog-friendly, sometimes has live music. It calls itself a gastropub but customers don't much rate the food. }} * {{drink | name=The Cask & Barrel | alt= | url=https://www.caskandbarrelbroughton.co.uk/ | email= | address=115 Broughton Street EH1 3RZ | lat=55.9592 | long=-3.1903 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556-3132 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2023-12-27 | content=This often features in the novels of Christopher Brookmyre as the pub where journalist "Jack Parlabane" gets tip-offs from the police. The Cask is a proper boozer with a wide selection of' Real Ale plus draft and bottled lagers and whisky. Great place to watch football or rugby as they have half a dozen TV screens. }} * {{drink | name=The Cumberland Bar | alt= | url=https://www.cumberlandbar.co.uk/ | email= | address=1-3 Cumberland Street EH3 6RT | lat=55.9589 | long=-3.1971 | directions= | phone=+44 131 558-3134 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 4:30-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight, Su noon-11PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Readers of Alexander McCall Smith's ''44 Scotland Street'' will recognise this literary haunt. It's a traditional pub popular with New Town locals, students, the suits from local offices, pretty much everyone in fact. Gets very busy in summer thanks to its lovely beer garden - one of the few central pubs to have one. Plenty of drink options and decent food. }} * {{drink | name=Edinburgh Gin Distillery | alt= | url=https://www.edinburghgindistillery.co.uk/ | email= | address=1a Rutland Place EH1 2AD | lat= | long= | directions=next to Waldorf Astoria | phone=+44 131 202-4555 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-4:30PM | price=Basic tour £25 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Micro-distillery producing gin in various styles. In summer 2024 they plan to move to larger premises on Market St near the station. }} * '''[https://www.johnniewalker.com/en-gb/visit-us-princes-street/ Johnnie Walker]''' is the traditional budget blended whisky of the working man. See [[Kilmarnock]] for its history, but that plant has closed down, and it's nowadays made in Glasgow and Leven, and owned by Diageo. The tour centre at 145 Princes St (opposite Waldorf Astoria) reinvents it as a jazzy upmarket experience. Basic tour £30, which would almost buy you two bottles of Red Label to stotious effect. == Sleep == [[File:Dugald Stewart Monument, Calton Hill, Edinburgh.jpg | thumb | Calton Hill looks down on New Town ]] === Budget === * {{sleep | name=easyHotel.com Edinburgh | alt= | url=https://www.easyhotel.com/hotels/united-kingdom/edinburgh/edinburgh | email= | address=125a Princes Street EH2 4AD | lat=55.9508 | long=-3.2045 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226-5303 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £50 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Tiny rooms, but right in the heart of the city facing the castle and Princes Street Gardens. Some rooms have no window. }} * {{sleep | name=Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.hostellingscotland.org.uk/hostels/edinburgh-central/ | email= | address=9 Haddington Place, Leith Walk EH7 4AL | lat=55.9599 | long=-3.1832 | directions= | phone=+44 131 524-2090 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm £23, double room £90 | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Large hostel near the top of Leith Walk, about 10 minutes walk from Waverley Station. It serves meals and the cafe is open to the public. There is also a self-catering kitchen, and plasma screens abound. In addition to dormitories, some rooms (including singles) are available. }} * {{sleep | name=ibis Styles St Andrew Square | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/9058/index.en.shtml | email= | address=19 St Andrew Square EH2 1AU | lat=55.9546 | long=-3.1948 | directions= | phone=+44 131 292-0200 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Good value Accor chain hotel 100 yards from the bus station. }} * {{sleep | name=Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (York Place) | alt= | url=https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/scotland/lothian/edinburgh/edinburgh-city-centre-york-placest-james-quarter.html | email= | address=44 York Place EH1 3HU | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Waverley Station | phone=+44 333 234 6473 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £80 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Reliable chain hotel with spacious rooms for the price, and a/c. Some rooms have views over the New Town and Forth. }} * '''[https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/scotland/lothian/edinburgh/edinburgh-city-centre-waverley.html Premier Inn Waverley]''' is another branch at 24 Rose St. * {{sleep | name=Cityroomz | alt= | url=https://cityroomz.com/ | email= | address=25 Shandwick Place EH2 4RG | lat= | long= | directions=just west of Waldorf Astoria | phone=+44 131 229-6871 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £60 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Bright modern place at the west end of Princes St. }} === Mid-range === * '''[https://www.malmaison.com/locations/edinburgh-city/ Malmaison]''' is at 22 St Andrew Square opposite Ibis Styles. Poor reviews for its ill-lit cramped rooms with nowhere to put your stuff. * {{sleep | name=21212 | alt= | url=https://www.21212restaurant.co.uk/ | email= | address=3 Rothesay Terrace EH3 7RY | lat=55.9569 | long=-3.1809 | directions= | phone=+44 131 523 1030 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Restaurant in a Georgian town house with four rooms. No dogs. }} * {{sleep | name=B+B Edinburgh | alt= | url=https://www.bb-edinburgh.com/ | email= | address=3 Rothesay Terrace EH3 7RY | lat=55.9512 | long=-3.2166 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225 5084 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Traditional hotel with lovely views, but the lift is chronically out of action. }} * {{sleep | name=Tigerlily | alt= | url=https://www.tigerlilyedinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=125 George Street EH2 4JN | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 131 225 5005 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £90 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Jazzy hotel near Charlotte Square, spacious rooms. No dogs. }} * {{sleep | name=21212 | alt= | url=https://www.21212restaurant.co.uk/ | email= | address=3 Rothesay Terrace EH3 7RY | lat=55.9569 | long=-3.1809 | directions= | phone=+44 131 523 1030 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Restaurant in a Georgian town house with four rooms. No dogs. }} * {{sleep | name=The Hoxton | alt=formerly Grosvenor Hotel | url=https://thehoxton.com/edinburgh/ | email= | address=5 Grosvenor Street EH12 5EF | lat= | long= | directions=200 yards north of Haymarket | phone=+44 131 297 2840 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £200 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=The former Grosvenor re-opened in 2025, so it's sparkling fresh and eager to please. }} * {{sleep | name=Parliament House Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.parliamenthouse-hotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=15 Calton Hill EH1 3BJ | lat=55.9542 | long=-3.1861 | directions= | phone=+44 131 478 4000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Quiet backwater off busy streets at the foot of Calton Hill. Comfy and great value, tiny bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Number 11 | alt= | url=https://www.11brunswickst.co.uk/ | email= | address=11 Brunswick St EH7 5JB | lat=55.9588 | long=-3.1796 | directions= | phone=+44 131 557 6910 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Slick welcoming hotel with great dining. }} === Splurge === [[File:Caledonian Hotel (geograph 3417777).jpg | thumb | Waldorf Astoria - The Caledonian]] * {{sleep | name=Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh | alt=The Caledonian | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ednchwa-waldorf-astoria-edinburgh-the-caledonian/ | email= | address=Princes Street EH1 2AB | lat=55.9498 | long=-3.2073 | directions= | phone=+44 131 222-8888 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £220 | wikipedia=Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian | wikidata=Q16256099 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Grand hotel presiding over the west end of Princes St, facing the castle. It was built as the terminus station and hotel for the Caledonian Railway, vying with the rival North British terminus at the east end, now Waverley. The latter became the definitive city terminus, the west end station was demolished in 1970 and "The Caley" was able to expand. Citizens also discovered that it was rose pink, when 70 years of grime was scrubbed off. It earns good but not great reviews for comfort, service and dining in its three restaurants. The property is now owned by an Abu Dhabi holding company but continues to be operated by Hilton. }} * {{sleep | name=InterContinental The George Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/gb/en/edinburgh/edigs/ | email= | address=19-21 George Street EH2 2PB | lat=55.9540 | long=-3.1963 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225-1251 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £210 | wikipedia=The George Hotel (Edinburgh) | wikidata=Q7736172 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=249-room hotel on busy George Street. The hotel was built as townhouses in the 1780s and knocked through into a hotel in 1881. Great scores for comfort, service and location. }} * {{sleep | name=Old Waverley Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oldwaverley.co.uk/ | email=info@oldwaverley.co.uk | address=43 Princes Street EH2 2BY | lat= | long= | directions=opposite station | phone=+44 131 556-4648 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Very central location, but poky old rooms and no lift. }} * {{sleep | name=Balmoral Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel | email=reservations.balmoral@roccofortehotels.com | address=1 Princes Street EH2 2EQ | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=above Waverley Station, lift from concourse | phone=+44 131 556-2414 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £260 | wikipedia=Balmoral Hotel | wikidata=Q3700280 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=This baronial pile opened in 1902 as the terminus and hotel of the North British Railway, just pipping the rival Caledonian at the other end of Princes St. Its landmark clock tower is always three minutes fast to speed dawdlers towards their train. The NB Hotel was rebuilt to become the Balmoral in 1990. Great service and trad ambience, some visitors found it dated. }} * {{sleep | name=Nira Caledonia | alt= | url=https://niracaledonia.com/ | email= | address=10 Gloucester Place EH3 6EF | lat=55.9567 | long=-3.2073 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225-2720 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £180 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Hotel (more like a B&B) at the edge of Stockbridge. Tiny rooms and beds, tall guests will suffer. }} * {{sleep | name=Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.kimptoncharlottesquare.com/ | email= | address=38 Charlotte Square EH2 4HQ | lat=55.9516 | long=-3.2061 | directions= | phone=+44 131 240-5500 | tollfree=+44 800 4444 5566 | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £240 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=On a charming garden squares, this 199-room was seven inter-connecting Georgian townhouses, built in 1791 to a design by Robert Adam, and converted to a hotel in 1881. }} * {{sleep | name=Cheval Edinburgh Grand | alt=formerly Lateral City | url=https://www.chevalcollection.com/cheval-the-edinburgh-grand/ | email= | address=42 St Andrews Square EH2 2AD | lat=55.9539 | long=-3.1915 | directions= | phone=+44 131 230-0570 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £200 | lastedit=2023-12-28 | content=Plush studios and apartments between railway and bus stations. }} * '''[https://gleneagles.com/townhouse/ Gleneagles Townhouse]''' is at 39 St Andrews Square next to The Edinburgh Grand. Fine decor but poor service. * {{sleep | name=The Glasshouse | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ediak-the-glasshouse-autograph-collection/ | email= | address=2 Greenside Place EH1 3AA | lat= | long= | directions=Omni Centre next to Playhouse | phone=+44 131 525-8200 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £210 | lastedit=2023-12-24 | content=Comfy central hotel, service spasmodic. }} == Connect == New Town like the rest of Edinburgh has 5G from all UK carriers, and Wifi is widely available. All public libraries have internet and printing facilities, see [[Edinburgh#Connect]] for how to access these. There are no branches within New Town, those close by are Central Library on George IV Bridge in Old Town, Stockbridge, and Macdonald Road going down Leith Walk. == Go next == * [[Edinburgh/Old Town|Old Town]] is the unmissable medieval core of Edinburgh, with the Royal Mile stretching from castle to palace. * [[Edinburgh/Stockbridge and Canonmills | Stockbridge ]] has the extensive Botanic Gardens. * Murrayfield rugby stadiums and Hearts football ground are within walking distance to [[Edinburgh/West | the west]]. * Day trips out of town are easily made from the railway and bus stations, see [[Edinburgh#Go next]] for suggestions. {{routebox | image1=UK_road_A1.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=W | majorl1=ENDS AT PRINCES STREET | minorl1= | directionr1=E | minorr1=[[Edinburgh/East|East Edinburgh]] | majorr1=[[Musselburgh]] | image2=UK_road_A7.svg | imagesize2=40 | directionl2=NW | majorl2=ENDS AT PRINCES STREET | minorl2= | directionr2=SE | minorr2=[[Edinburgh/Old Town|Old Town]] | majorr2=[[Dalkeith]] }} {{geo|55.956247|-3.198928|zoom=15}} {{guidedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Edinburgh}} {{Related|UNESCO_World_Heritage_List}} cnnd2dofd0gnfy2y8n8hmhdnfnms35y 0 10609 5091350 5079713 2025-07-11T10:52:02Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ Filmhouse 5091350 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Edinburgh castle banner.jpg|dotm=yes|caption=Edinburgh Castle|unesco=yes|pgname=Old Town of Edinburgh}} '''Old Town''' is the original settlement of [[Edinburgh]]. At its core is the Royal Mile, the long street descending east from Castle Crag to Holyrood Palace. This medieval city was cramped for space so it built higher and higher, and stank higher still, hence its nickname of "Auld Reekie". From the 14th century it spread south to Grassmarket and Southside, north to Waverley, and west to Tolcross, and these historic districts are all described on this page. Along with the [[Edinburgh/New Town|New Town]], the Old Town was listed as a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site]] by UNESCO in 1995. '''[https://www.visitscotland.com/info/services/edinburgh-icentre-p234441 iCentre]''' the tourist office is at 249 High Street, about opposite to St Giles church. It's open M-Sa 9:30AM-1PM, 2-5PM; Su 9:30AM-2PM. == Get in == {{Mapframe | 55.950 | -3.190 | height=500 | width=550 | zoom=14 }} See [[Edinburgh#Get in]] for long distance routes by air, train and bus. From the airport, take the tram or Airlink Bus 100 (24 hours) to Waverley railway station. {{marker | name=Waverley Station | type=go | lat=55.9520 | long=-3.1897 }} is only 100 yards north of Old Town, and St Andrew's Square bus station another 200 yards further north. You then face a gradient to access the Royal Mile, the gentlest being across North Bridge. Arriving from other parts of the city, most bus routes at some point traverse Old Town or Princes Street past the bus and railway stations. Don't even think of bringing a car into Old Town unless your destination specifically offers parking. Many streets are traffic-restricted, and during the Festival any vehicle left unattended for 30 seconds will be seized by a Fringe troupe and turned into an off-beat venue. It's actually possible to stage Shakespeare in the back seats of a small car, but subsequently cleaning off the stage blood is tedious. From 1 June 2024, most of the Old Town is in a [https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/lez Low Emission Zone], with camera-enforced penalties for entering in a non-compliant vehicle. Cars built after 2015 are generally compliant, but check [https://www.lowemissionzones.scot/ online]. == Get around == '''Walk:''' distances are short, but factor in the gradients, and streets that bridge Cowgate without an intersection. High Street, the upper part of Royal Mile, is a pedestrian zone. Frequent buses cross it north-south: at the top from Forrest Rd and George IV Bridge to descend the Mound into New Town, and at South Bridge towards Waverley station. See [[Edinburgh#Get around]] for using the buses. Bus 35 runs along Canongate the lower part every 30 min, from Heriot Watt University west edge of the city through Tolcross, Lauriston Place, Chambers St, South Bridge, Canongate, Holyrood Palace, Abbeyhill and north to Leith. Other services through Tolcross and Lauriston Place go over George IV Bridge to the Mound. Bus 2 runs from Hermiston west edge of the city every 20-30 min to Haymarket, Lothian Rd, Grassmarket and Potterrow to join Nicholson St by the Festival Theatre and head south. == See == [[File:Edinburgh, The Royal Mile (37729375995).jpg | thumb | 300px | Piper busking on the Royal Mile ]] === Royal Mile === This is the original spine of the city. Glaciers from the west 20,000 years ago divided at the immovable volcanic plug of Castle Rock, and dumped debris behind as a ridge descending east. Measuring 1.12 miles / 1.807 km, it's the route between castle and palace. The best of it is the upper cobbled, traffic-restricted stretch called Castlehill, Lawnmarket then High Street, down to the intersection with North and South Bridges. Much is Georgian, as a great fire in 1824 destroyed many medieval buildings. * {{see | name=Edinburgh Castle | alt= | url=https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/ | email= | address=Castlehill EH1 2NG | lat=55.9485 | long=-3.2004 | directions= | phone=+44 131 225-9846 | tollfree= | hours=Daily: Apr-Sep 9:30AM-6PM, Oct-Mar 9:30AM-5PM | price=Adult £19.50, child (7-15) £11.40, conc £15.50, Historic Scotland / English Heritage / Cadw free | wikipedia=Edinburgh Castle | wikidata=Q212065 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Iconic fortress perched magnificently on a volcanic rock above the city. The castle has been continuously used for 1100 years and is kept in excellent condition; it's still the ceremonial headquarters of the army in Scotland. Highlights include the Great Hall, the Honours of Scotland (the Scottish Crown Jewels), the War Museum and the 12th century St Margaret's Chapel. The One O'Clock Gun is fired each day from Mills Mount battery. Audio guides available. It's mobbed with tourists and in summer often sells out, book online well in advance. }} * '''The Esplanade''' is the parade square in front of the castle, normally free to access in daylight hours, lined with monuments to bygone military campaigns and with good views of the city. However the Edinburgh Tattoo and other events are staged here, so access is restricted then, and views are cramped by temporary banks of seating. * '''Tolbooth Kirk''' or '''The Hub''' is the confident Victorian Gothic church at the foot of Castlehill. It was never consecrated, but held religious and secular meetings and church services in English and Gaelic until 1979. From 1999 it's served as the Festival's offices, ticket kiosks and small performance space. * {{see | name=Camera Obscura | alt=World of Illusions | url=https://www.camera-obscura.co.uk/ | email= | address=549 Castlehill EH1 2ND | lat=55.9489 | long=-3.1956 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226-3709 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 9:30AM-7:30PM, F-Su 9AM-9PM | price=Adult £22, conc £20, child (5-15 years) £17 | wikipedia=Camera Obscura (Edinburgh) | wikidata=Q4211494 | lastedit=2023-12-02 | content=Over 150 years old, the Camera Obscura projects light from the top of the tower onto a large dish in a dark room below, displaying a panorama of the city. The effect still works on overcast days or at night but is best in sunlight, when you can use a sheet of paper to "pick up" people seen in the streets and have them scurry in your hand. The tower also houses a gallery of optical illusions that wouldn't be out of place in Blackpool. }} * {{see | name=Gladstone's Land | alt= | url=https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/gladstones-land | email= | address=477 Lawnmarket EH1 2NT | lat=55.9495 | long=-3.1934 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226-5856 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Adult £10, conc £8.50, child £6, NTS / NT free | wikipedia=Gladstone's Land | wikidata=Q5566312 | lastedit=2023-12-02 | content=Thomas Gladstone was a wealthy merchant, and in 1617 he had this house refashioned to accommodate his family and to partly rent out. A "Land" means a tall narrow townhouse from the period when Old Town was cramped and the only space for development was upwards. Typically along the Royal Mile the ground floor was shops and trade, genteel folk lived on the first and second floors, and lower-income residents had to lump up many steps to the upper floors. It's now a museum run by the National Trust for Scotland exhibiting 17th century elite city life, richly furnished and decorated but with no running water. In the 18th century prosperous folk relocated to New Town, where the NTS property at 7 Charlotte Square continues the story. }} [[Image:St Giles Edinburgh 2.jpg | thumb | 300px | St Giles ]] * '''Closes''' are alleys descending steeply on both sides of the Royal Mile in a fishbone pattern, often named for a famous resident. They've come and gone over the centuries and some 80 still exist. Strictly a "close" was a private entrance with a locked gate, but some were public passageways, and a wynd was wide enough for a horse and cart. They're gloomy beneath the ancient tall buildings, and a favourite of "Haunted Edinburgh" ghost tours. * {{see | name=Writers' Museum | alt= | url=https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/writers-museum | email= | address=Lady Stair's Close EH1 2PA | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=behind Gladstone's Land | phone=+44 131 529-4901 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Donation £3 | wikipedia=Writers' Museum | wikidata=Q8038444 | lastedit=2023-12-03 | content=This museum, in a tall house built in 1622, celebrates three Scottish literary giants: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. From 1719 the close was the residence of the widow of the 1st Earl of Stair, who ordered the [[Glencoe]] massacre. }} * {{see | name=St Giles | alt= | url=https://www.stgilescathedral.org.uk/ | email= | address=High St, EH1 1RE | lat=55.9494 | long=-3.1909 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226-0674 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 10AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 1-3PM | price=Free | wikipedia=St Giles' Cathedral | wikidata=Q1547466 | lastedit=2023-12-02 | content=It's often called a Cathedral, but the Church of Scotland brooks no such episcopal entity, and Charles I dubbing it "cathedral" in 1633 was one reason his head was chopped off. Safer to call it "High Kirk", though they're nowadays lenient with first time offenders. The present building is from 14th century with much Victorian Gothic, notably its crowned spire. Highlight is the Chapel of the Order of the Thistle, Scotland's chivalric company of royal knights. Services are M-F at noon and 9:30AM and 11AM on Sunday, with choral music at 6PM. }} * '''Heart of Midlothian''' is a mosaic set in the pavement outside St Giles, marking the entrance to the former Tolbooth. This originated in the 14th century as the city and national council chamber, but by the 18th century was a dilapidated jail, torture chamber and scene of public executions. Walter Scott's novel ''Heart of Midlothian'' describes it during the Porteous Riots of 1736, and he purloined its iron door and key when it was demolished in 1817. It's customary (though discouraged even pre-Covid) to spit upon the mosaic heart for good luck. In the 1870s a group of lads played football in the broad streets hereabout, until a policeman shooed them away to play on the spacious Meadows. They became Heart of Midlothian FC now based at Tynecastle but who have not forgotten their roots, as their players are often seen to spit. * '''Old Parliament Hall''' is the elegant building behind St Giles. It was built in the 1630s and housed the Scottish Parliament until 1707 when that was superseded by the UK Parliament in London. It was partly built over medieval graveyards, so John Knox (1514-72), founder of the stern Presbyterian church, was buried in St Giles graveyard and now finds himself out in the cobbled square. The Hall nowadays hosts the Scottish Supreme Courts, so there's no entrance unless you're in big trouble. * {{see | name=Mary King's Close | alt= | url=https://www.realmarykingsclose.com/ | email= | address=2 Warriston's Close, EH1 1PG | lat=55.95011 | long=-3.19069 | directions=opposite St Giles | phone=+44 131 225-0672 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9AM-5:30PM, Sa Su 9AM-7:30PM | price=Adult £21, child £15 | wikidata=Q1084992 | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Mary King (1590-1644) was a clothes merchant and city burgess. She died the year before plague struck and carried off the rest of her family. In 1753 Royal Exchange, now City Chambers, was built over several closes by demolishing their upper storeys, while the lower storeys were used for storage then later blocked off. This means a warren of medieval alleys and low dwellings has been preserved, re-opened in 2003 and visited by guided tour. Almost as weighty as the Exchange is the mass of ghost stories piled on top of the close, ''woo-ooh!'' - but the real history is fascinating enough. Book ahead as it often sells out. }} * '''City Chambers''' is the magnificent mansion set back from High St opposite St Giles, completed in 1760. It was intended as an Exchange but the merchants persisted striking their deals at Mercat Cross across the road. It's now home to City of Edinburgh Council. No tours, and it feels churlish to traipse into this grandeur to complain about your bin collections. * {{marker | name=Tron Kirk | type=see | lat=55.9500 | long=-3.1878 }} stands at the intersection of High Street and North Bridge. It was completed in 1641 but disused as a church since 1952, and is nowadays an indoor market. The square outside has long been a market - the "tron" was the weighing beam for goods - and gathering place. Traditionally you saw in the New Year at Hogmanay here, but modern crowds are way too big and the council has tried to divert them elsewhere. * {{marker | name=North Bridge | type=see | wikidata=Q3753005 }}, completed in 1897, soars for 525 feet (160 m) in three spans above Waverley railway station to connect Old and New Towns. It normally commands excellent views west towards the castle and east along the coast to Bass Rock. Repair work until mid-2024 spoils this as there are construction barriers, and the west side pavement is closed so the east side is crowded. [[File:Scotsman Steps 2.jpg | thumb | 300px | Scotsman Steps, each from a different marble ]] * '''Scotsman Steps''' at the top end of the bridge are a spiral shortcut to the station, best not attempted with luggage. Since 2011 each of the 104 steps is of different marble representing all the major quarries of the world. It's a mercy they dropped the plan for each step to play a different tune. * {{see | name=Museum of Childhood | alt= | url=https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/museum-childhood | email= | address=42 High Street EH1 1TG | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 131 529-4142 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Museum of Childhood (Edinburgh) | wikidata=Q15122172 | lastedit=2023-12-03 | content=Concepts and imagery of childhood are ever-changing. See if you can find your (or your grandparents') old toys in the collection, and your place in history. }} * '''Canongate''' is the narrow lower section of the Royal Mile, which lay beyond the city walls and was separately governed by the canons (priests) of Holyrood Abbey at its foot. No extradition, so once you legged it across the boundary, the city bailiffs couldn't touch you. There's lots to see here but it's less scenic, and through-traffic is permitted so it can feel ratty. * {{see | name=The Peoples' Story Museum | alt= | url=https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/peoples-story-museum | email= | address=163 Canongate EH8 8BN | lat=55.9515 | long=-3.1799 | directions=next to Canongate Kirk | phone=+44 131 529-4057 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q4306389 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=This is housed in Canongate Tolbooth, the medieval centre for governance and justice (preferably gruesome) as Canongate was a separate jurisdiction until 1856. The museum covers the story of working class life, and of organised labour, from the late 18th century to the present. }} * {{see | name=Canongate Kirk | alt= | url=https://www.canongatekirk.org.uk | email= | address=153 Canongate EH8 8BN | lat=55.9517 | long=-3.1796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open Su afternoon, otherwise erratic; Services Su 10:30 | price=Free | wikidata=Q6415559 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=In 1687 James VII (II of England) chucked the Protestants out of Holyrood to convert it to a royal Roman Catholic chapel, the sort of behaviour that got him ousted from the monarchy the following year. The congregation moved to Infirmary St then to this building on its completion in 1691. From 1952 Queen Elizabeth II regularly attended when at Holyrood, and in 2011 her granddaughter Zara Phillips married former England rugby captain Mike Tindall here. Notables in its graveyard include George Drummond (1788-1866) co-founder of the New Town, poet Robert Fergusson (1750–1774), and economist Adam Smith (1723-90). Memorials also commemorate soldiers dying at Edinburgh Castle, for which this was the graveyard, and coachmen of the London-Edinburgh stagecoach, which had its terminus here. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Edinburgh | alt= | url=https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/museum-edinburgh | email= | address=142 Canongate, EH8 8DD | lat=55.9514 | long=-3.1796 | directions=opposite Canongate Kirk | phone=+44 131 529-4143 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q11838982 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Museum of city history in a mustard-hued mansion built in 1570. }} [[Image:Parliament Debating Chamber.JPG | thumb | 300px | Debating Chamber, Scottish Parliament]] * {{see | name=Dunbar's Close Garden | alt= | url=https://www.edinburghoutdoors.org.uk/directory-record/37/dunbars-close-garden | email= | address=137 Canongate EH8 8BW | lat=55.952124 | long=-3.178943 | directions=next to Canongate Kirk | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 7AM-dusk | price=Free | wikidata=Q13889055 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=This close was re-modelled in the 1970s to recreate a 17th-century physic and knot garden, a hidden quiet place in the busy city. }} * {{see | name=Scottish Parliament | alt= | url=https://www.parliament.scot/visit | email= | address=EH99 1SP | lat=55.9523 | long=-3.1745 | directions= | phone=+44 131 348-5200 | tollfree=0800 092 7600 | hours=M F Sa and public holidays 10AM-5PM, Tu-Th 9AM-6:30PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Scottish Parliament Building | wikidata=Q2746031 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=A unique building, designed by Spanish Catalan architect Enric Miralles, completed in 2004. It's either a daring showpiece of postmodern architecture or a national embarrassment or a bit of both, time will tell. Parliament meets Tu-Th and you can watch debates from the Public Gallery, ask for tickets at reception. First Minister's Question Time is normally Th noon-12:45PM, and you need to reserve this up to 7 days in advance. Waiting list places may be available from 10AM on the day, otherwise watch from the Overspill Room. On non-business days (M F Sa) you can view the debating chamber from the Public Gallery without tickets. In the lobby area there are often exhibitions. }} * {{see | name=Dynamic Earth | alt= | url=https://www.dynamicearth.co.uk/ | email= | address=Holyrood Road EH8 8AS | lat=55.9506 | long=-3.1746 | directions= | phone=+44 131 550-7800 | tollfree= | hours=W-F 10AM-5PM, Sa Su 10AM-6PM | price=Adult £19.50 adults, conc £16.70, child £12 | wikipedia=Dynamic Earth | wikidata=Q5318903 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Interactive natural history museum exhibiting the forces and features of our planet: volcanoes, polar ice, rainforests and so on. Opened in 1999, it's a tent-like structure on the former site of a gasworks and brewery. }} * {{see | name=Holyrood Palace | alt= | url=https://www.rct.uk/visit/palace-of-holyroodhouse | email= | address=Canongate EH8 8DX | lat=55.9527 | long=-3.1721 | directions= | phone=+44 303 123 7306 | tollfree= | hours=Nov-Mar Th-M 9:30AM - 4:30PM, Apr-Oct Th-M (& daily Jul-Sep) 9:30AM - 6PM | price=Adult £19.50, child or conc £10.50 | wikipedia=Holyrood Palace | wikidata=Q505950 | lastedit=2024-03-26 | content=The Palace is a royal residence, closed when the king is here for a week in July and for similar state occasions. It's been repeatedly smashed up and rebuilt, and the present building is mostly from the 1670s. Highlights are the grand stair, state apartments, throne room, Mary Queen of Scots Chambers (where bloodstains from the murder of Rizzio are still visible), King's Gallery a sample of the royal art collection, the ruin of Holyrood Abbey, and the palace gardens. }} * '''Physic Garden''' by the palace entrance is part of the complex, but free to access same hours. === Grassmarket and Southside === [[File:William Allan - The Murder of David Rizzio - Scottish National Gallery.jpg | thumb | 300px | Debating the spiralling cost of the new Scottish Parliament building ]] The Old Town spread into the dank hollow south of the castle by the 14th century, and Grassmarket was the livestock market, cheap housing and place of execution. Further extension brought it to the edge of the South Loch, and this district acquired University and civic buildings, mostly Victorian. That loch is now The Meadows, described as part of [[Edinburgh/South]]. * {{marker | name=Grassmarket | type=see | lat=55.9475 | long=-3.1962 }} is a long cobbled plaza, nowadays lined with eating places and accommodation. Until it went swiftly upmarket in the 1980s, this was home to many down-and-outs, notoriously at the flophouse of Number 75 the Castle Trades Hotel. * '''West Port''' is the west extension of Grassmarket, once a gateway into Old Town. In 1828 it was the abode of Burke and Hare, who preyed upon the vulnerable, got them drunk, suffocated them then sold the fresh bodies to Dr Robert Knox for dissection. Knox paid good money and asked no questions, delighted to buy their goods instead of the pungent merchandise of grave robbers. * '''Tolcross''' further west is a busy intersection with many eating places. Lothian Road leads down past Usher Hall to the west end of Princes Street in New Town. * {{see | name=George IV Bridge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3752968 | lastedit=2023-12-18 | content=Thisigh-level road courses south from the top of High Street and spans the hollow of Grassmarket. Completed in 1836, it's lined with Victorian and modern buildings such as the two libraries. Victoria Street descends into the hollow, while Victoria Terrace is a walkway above it that loops back onto Royal Mile. }} * {{see | name=National Library of Scotland | alt= | url=https://www.nls.uk/ | email= | address=George IV Bridge EH1 1EW | lat=55.9486 | long=-3.1919 | directions= | phone=+44 131 623-3700 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=National Library of Scotland | wikidata=Q1670994 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=A venerable reference library, which you need membership to access, but it has public exhibitions about literature. "Treasures" is its permanent exhibition. But don't stumble in here mistaking it for Central Library across the street. }} * {{see | name=Central Library | alt= | url=https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/centrallibrary | email= | address=7 George IV Bridge EH1 1EG | lat=55.94824 | long=-3.19221 | directions=opposite National Library | phone=+44 131 242-8000 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 8AM-10PM, Th-Sa 10AM-5PM | price= | wikidata=Q5061355 | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=See [[Edinburgh#Connect]] for how to access. The internet stations are in the Learning Centre, and the building houses Central Lending Library, Central Reference Library, Central Children's Library, Edinburgh and Scottish Collections, Art & Design Library and Music Library. It has a wealth of material for research such as old newspapers and maps, but births, marriages and deaths are filed at East Register House by the bus station in New Town. }} * {{marker | name=Greyfriars Bobby | type=see | lat=55.9469 | long=-3.1913 }} is a Victorian drinking fountain (disconnected) topped by the statue of the dog that for 14 years kept watch at its master's grave in Greyfriars. It was owned by John Gray a nightwatchman; in 1872 it died and was in turn buried there. The statue was erected the following year and has been surrounded by a knot of tourists ever since. The statue depicts a Skye terrier, but original photos indicate Bobby was a Dandie Dinmount. * {{see | name=Greyfriars Kirk | alt= | url=https://greyfriarskirk.com/visit/kirkyard/ | email= | address=Greyfriars Place EH1 2QQ | lat=55.9466 | long=-3.1922 | directions=Entrance by Greyfriars Bobby | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 11AM-4PM, Su 11:30AM-2PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q2113456 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=This church was built in 1620 on the grounds of an abandoned Franciscan Friary, but seriously damaged by later calamities or Acts of God so the present structure is mostly Victorian. It remains active, as other Presbyterian churches have closed and their congregations moved here. The main visitor interest is the ancient graveyard: notable denizens include the architects William and John Adam, the notorious hell-rake Colonel Charteris, Captain Porteous lynched after he fired on rioters, William McGonagall the worst poet in Scotland, and Greyfriars Bobby plus his owner. The mortsafe kept coffins locked until burial, else the body-snatchers would make off with them. }} [[File:Greyfriars Bobby 07.jpg | thumb | 300px | Greyfriars Bobby ]] * '''Candlemaker Row''' is the colourful street descending from Greyfriars Kirk to Grassmarket. * {{see | name=National Museum of Scotland | alt= | url=https://www.nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-scotland/ | email=info@nms.ac.uk | address=Chambers St EH1 1JF | lat=55.9469 | long=-3.1892 | directions= | phone=+44 300 123 6789 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=National Museum of Scotland | wikidata=Q1633842 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Superb museum of Scotland's heritage. You enter into the lofty Victorian Grand Gallery, where the millennium clock chimes on the hour. Exhibition halls cover Scottish and world history and culture, science, technology, art and design, and natural history. Dolly the sheep, the 12th-century Lewis chess pieces, and dinosaurs are some of the highlights. NMS also run the War Museum in the castle, the Museum of Flight near [[Gullane]], and the Museum of Rural Life in [[East Kilbride]]. }} * {{see | name=Anatomical Museum | alt= | url=https://www.ed.ac.uk/biomedical-sciences/anatomy/anatomical-museum | email= | address=Doorway 3, Medical School, Teviot Place EH8 9AG | lat=55.945 | long=-3.19 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Last Saturday of Sept-Nov and Jan-May | price=Free | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Large collection of anatomical specimens and life and death masks. Best known is the skeleton of William Burke, hanged in 1829 after he and William Hare killed at least 16 people to sell the bodies for dissection. Limited opening as the area is in continual use for teaching, booking essential. }} * {{marker | name=George Square | type=see | lat=55.9437 | long=-3.1888 }} is a secluded square with Georgian buildings on its west and east side - the University bashed down those north and south in the 1960s. Its bosky garden is popular with sun-lounging students, and in August is taken over by pop-up Fringe venues. * '''Middle Meadow Walk''' west side of the square descends from Forrest Rd onto The Meadows. * '''Quartermile''' is now the name of the long baronial edifice on Lauriston Place just west of the Medical School. From 1872 to 2003 it was the Royal Infirmary, site of the world's first successful kidney transplant in 1960 and the first coronary care unit in 1964. The Infirmary then moved to Little France on the southeast edge of then city and these buildings have multiple office and academic tenants. * {{see | name=St Cecilia's Hall | alt= | url=https://www.stcecilias.ed.ac.uk/ | email= | address=Niddry Street, Cowgate, EH1 1NQ | lat=55.949 | long=-3.1864 | directions= | phone=+44 131 650-2600 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-6:30PM | price=Historic instruments free | wikidata=Q7592777 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Scotland's oldest purpose-built concert hall, opened in 1763 and still in regular use. It hosts the University of Edinburgh collection of historic musical instruments, crafted 16th to 20th century, many of which (such as the Trompette Demilune) are no longer played. }} * {{see | name=Talbot Rice Gallery | alt= | url=https://www.trg.ed.ac.uk/ | email= | address=Old College, South Bridge EH8 9YL | lat=55.9471 | long=-3.1878 | directions= | phone=+44 131 650-2210 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM during exhibitions | price=Free | wikipedia=Talbot Rice Gallery | wikidata=Q7679039 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=David Talbot Rice (1903-72) was in the louche crowd at Oxford that inspired ''Brideshead Revisited'' and became a distinguished scholar of East Mediterranean and Russian art, with extensive contacts in those parts - how come this fellow was never implicated in a spy ring? His spell as University Vice Principal is commemorated in this gallery with changing exhibitions of contemporary art. It's housed within Old College of Edinburgh University, a fine building built between 1789 and 1827 by Robert Adam and Henry Playfair. The Georgian Gallery has a Playfair interior and a mixture of Old Masters and modern installations. }} [[File:John Knox statue, New College, Edinburgh.jpg | thumb | 300px | John Knox holds forth at New College ]] * {{see | name=Dovecot Studios | alt= | url=https://dovecotstudios.com/ | email= | address=10 Infirmary Street EH1 1LT | lat=55.9184 | long=-3.2368 | directions= | phone=+44 131 550-3660 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Dovecot Studios | image=Dovecot Exterior.jpg | wikidata=Q5302420 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Tapestry studio and gallery housed in the former public baths. There is a cafe, shop, and viewing gallery where you can look down on weavers at work. }} * {{see | name=Surgeons' Hall Museums | alt= | url=https://museum.rcsed.ac.uk/ | email=museum@rcsed.ac.uk | address=Nicolson Street EH8 9DW | lat=55.9467 | long=-3.1852 | directions= | phone=+44 131 527-1711 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Adult £9.50, conc £6 | wikipedia=Surgeons' Hall | wikidata=Q7646188 | lastedit=2024-03-26 | content=The permanent exhibitions are the Pathology Museum, the History of Surgery and the Dental Museum. Not suitable for children under 10 as the exhibits include human remains. }} * {{see | name=Edinburgh Central Mosque | alt= | url=https://edmosque.org/ | email= | address=50 Potterrow EH8 9BT | lat=55.9451 | long=-3.186 | directions= | phone=+44 131 667-1777 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-11PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Edinburgh Central Mosque | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Stately mosque and minaret completed in 1998 in a modern variant of Turkish style. You can generally look in between prayer times. }} === Waverley === The railway tracks now carve between Old and New Towns. But just as the Old Town spread south into Grassmarket, it also spread north into the downbeat district of Waverley, part low-rent housing and part stinking midden, until the railway obliterated most of it. "The Mound" is the spoil heap from building New Town that became a thoroughfare from Old Town. * {{see | name=City Art Centre | alt= | url=https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/city-art-centre | email= | address=2 Market St, EH1 1DE | lat=55.9509 | long=-3.1893 | directions= | phone=+44 131 529-3993 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Donation £3 | wikidata=Q65081638 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Four-floor gallery run by the city council. They rotate artwork from their extensive Scottish collection and have changing exhibitions. }} * {{see | name=Fruitmarket | alt= | url=http://www.fruitmarket.co.uk | email=info@fruitmarket.co.uk | address=45 Market Street EH1 1DF | lat=55.951389 | long=-3.188889 | directions=facing City Art Centre | phone=+44 131 225-2383 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-6PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q4402028 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Gallery of contemporary art, refurbished in 2018. From 1936 to the 1970s this was where soft fruit and veg were traded, handy for the trains and delivery vans. }} * {{see | name=Stills | alt= | url=http://www.stills.org/ | email= | address=23 Cockburn Street EH1 1BP | lat=55.9507 | long=-3.1903 | directions= | phone=+44 131 622-6200 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 11AM-5PM | price=Free | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Photography gallery with three exhibitions a year. They also support photographers through courses and hire of equipment, darkroom and digital lab. }} * {{see | name=Museum on the Mound | alt= | url=https://museumonthemound.com/ | email= | address=The Mound EH1 1YZ | lat=55.9502 | long=-3.1934 | directions= | phone=+44 131 243-5464 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 10AM-5PM, Sa 1-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=Museum on the Mound | wikidata=Q6941127 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Museum about money and coins, in the basement of the Palladian pile of the former Bank of Scotland headquarters. Scotland developed a banking sector in the 18th century to support long-distance trade, and still prints its own banknotes. }} * '''New College''' looks down upon the Mound. It was opened in 1846 as the seminary for Free Church ministers and is now part of the University of Edinburgh School of Divinity. You can look in on the courtyard, where the statue of John Knox is launching into another polemic against women: "For their sight in civile regiment, is but blindness: their strength, weakness: their counsel, foolishness: and judgement, phrenesie . . . " === Holyrood Park === [[File:Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh.JPG | thumb | 300px | The crouching lion of Arthur's Seat ]] This scenic park south and east of Holyrood Palace was created by King James VI in the 16th century. It's dominated by the volcanic mount of Arthur's Seat, and ringed by small lochs. All park roads are closed to vehicles Sa Su 8AM-3:30PM though cyclists are still permitted, and traffic can go as far as the car parks at Broad Pavement, Meadowbank and Duddingston. The High Road (the loop of Queen's Drive over the east flank) is only open to vehicles Tu-Th 9:30AM-3PM and is one-way clockwise. Roads may be closed at other times for events such as marathons and the annual toad migration: in March they emerge from hibernation on the hill and crawl down to the lochs across the roads. * {{marker | name=Arthur's Seat | type=see | wikidata=Q712311 }} broods over Old Town and is visible from afar as a crouching lion. It's the main vent of a volcano that erupted 340 million years ago, with side vents adjacent (Whinny Hill or Lion's Haunch) and at Calton Hill and Castle Rock. It's 823 ft / 251 m high, and the simplest ascent is from the east, a ten minute stroll from Dunsapie Loch car park on the High Road. Feel free to approach instead from the city-facing west, the "Gutted Haddie" steep scramble, with the tourist ahead knocking cobbles down on your skull. The view from the top takes in the city, the Firth of Forth and hills of Fife, and the line of other volcanic plugs out to the Bass Rock that spurted from the same fault movement. The connection with King Arthur is tenuous: early Britons spoke a language closer to Welsh than Gaelic, and Arthur is first mentioned in the saga of ''Y Gododdin'' recounting heroism (and heroic mead-drinking) in these northern hills. * {{marker | name=Salisbury Crags | type=see | wikidata=Q31118011 }} are basalt cliffs to the west, dramatic seen from the city at sunset, upthrust millions of years after the volcano was extinct. They are suffering erosion, and since a rockfall in 2018 rock climbing is no longer permitted, and the "Radical Road" path between cliff and talus slope is closed. * {{marker | name=St Anthony's Chapel | type=see | lat=55.9501 | long=-3.1614 }} is a scenic but scrappy 14th-century ruin, with only one wall remaining. It stands above St Margaret's Loch, created in 1856 as Prince Albert thought it would improve the view. * {{marker | name=Duddingston | type=see | wikidata=Q3715916}}: see [[Edinburgh/East]] for this charming hamlet and small loch at the southeast edge of the park. == Do == [[File:The Grand Gallery of the National Museum of Scotland - geograph.org.uk - 2561565.jpg | thumb | 300px | Grand Gallery of the National Museum of Scotland ]] * {{do | name=The Edinburgh Dungeon | alt= | url=https://www.thedungeons.com/edinburgh/ | email= | address=31 Market Street EH1 1DF | lat=55.9511 | long=-3.1909 | directions= | phone=+44 131 240-1041 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11AM-4PM, F-S 11AM-5PM | price=Adult £19, child £15 | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content="Haunted House" experience, where you take a 70 min tour through 11 shows and 2 rides loosely based on Scotland's horrible history: William Wallace, Mary King's Ghost, cannibal Sawney Bean, Burke and Hare and more. }} * {{do | name=The Scotch Whisky Experience | alt= | url=https://www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk/ | email= | address=354 Castlehill EH1 2NE | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=opposite Camera Obscura | phone=+44 131 220-0441 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-5PM | price=Basic tour £23 adult, £21 conc, £10 child | wikipedia=Scotch Whisky Experience | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Tour of the history and craft of whisky distilling, with expert guides - the basic or "silver" tour works well for beginners. They have a huge selection; the core of it is the 3384 bottles collected by Brazilian whisky enthusiast Claive Vidiz. }} * {{do | name=The Lost Close | alt= | url=https://thelostclose.com/ | email= | address=1 Barrie's Close EH1 1RF | lat= | long= | directions=behind St Giles' Cathedral | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-19 | content=Underground experiences and tours led by expert Storytellers. Whisky, gin and beer tastings available - starting from £15. }} * '''Walking tours''' explore the Royal Mile and its dark alleys and even darker history. They include [https://www.edinburghliterarypubtour.co.uk/ Literary Pub Tour], [https://www.eatwalktours.co.uk/ Walk Food Tour], [https://www.witcherytours.com/ Cadies and Witchery], [https://www.cityofthedeadtours.com/ City of the Dead], [https://www.localeyestours.co.uk/ Local Eyes], [https://witchestour.com/ Witches Tour]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://cityofedinburghtours.com/ City of Edinburgh Tours], [https://www.mercattours.com/ Mercat Tours] and [https://www.auldreekietours.com/ Auld Reekie Tours]. * {{do | name=Monkey Barrel Comedy | alt= | url=https://www.monkeybarrelcomedy.com/ | email= | address=9 Blair Street EH1 1QR | lat=55.949391 | long=-3.187884 | directions=next to ibis Royal Mile | phone=+44 131 460-8421 | tollfree= | hours=Venue 6PM-midnight | price=Adult £8, student £6 | lastedit=2023-12-05 | content=Intimate comedy venue with several acts each night. Drink and some food available. }} * '''[https://stramashedinburgh.com/ Stramash]''' is a live music venue at 207 Cowgate, at the foot of Blair St, on two levels with a capacity of 900. * {{do | name=Festival Theatre | alt= | url=https://www.capitaltheatres.com/ | email= | address=13/29 Nicolson Street EH8 9FT | lat=55.9467 | long=-3.1861 | directions= | phone=+44 131 529-6000 (Box office) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=Large performance venue, home of the Scottish Ballet and Scottish Opera. It also hosts contemporary dance, ballet, musicals and panto. }} [[File:Usher Hall, stairwell - view up 01.jpeg | thumb | 300px | Stairwell within Usher Hall ]] * {{do | name=Reid Concert Hall | alt= | url=https://www.eca.ed.ac.uk/facility/reid-concert-hall | email= | address=Bristo Square EH8 9AL | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=east side of Anatomy Museum | phone=+44 131 651-2189 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Reid Concert Hall | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=General Reid (1721-1807) endowed the School of Music at the University of Edinburgh. They put on occasional free lunchtime concerts here, especially on 13 Feb, Reid's birthday. You may also be able to look in on their collection of antique instruments. }} * {{do | name=Usher Hall | alt= | url=https://www.usherhall.co.uk/ | email= | address=Lothian Road EH1 2EY | lat=55.9473 | long=-3.205 | directions= | phone=+44 131 228-1155 (Box office) | tollfree= | hours=Box Office M-Sa 10AM-5:30PM, Su 1-2PM | price= | wikipedia=Usher Hall | wikidata=Q1636910 | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=The city's main concert hall, capacity 2200, and home to the [http://www.rsno.org.uk/ Royal Scottish National Orchestra]. It was completed in 1914, funded by Andrew Usher the whisky distiller and blender. }} * '''Edinburgh Filmhouse''' at 88 Lothian Rd opposite Usher Hall is an arthouse cinema. It folded in 2022 but re-opened in June 2025. * {{do | name=Royal Lyceum | alt= | url=https://www.lyceum.org.uk/ | email= | address=30b Grindlay St EH3 9AX | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=south flank of Usher Hall | phone=+44 131 248-4848 (Box office) | tollfree= | hours=Box Office M-Sa 10AM-5PM | price= | wikidata=Q7374418 | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Completed in 1883 and little altered since, this is home to the Royal Lyceum Theatre Company. }} * {{do | name=Traverse Theatre | alt= | url=https://www.traverse.co.uk/ | email= | address=10 Cambridge St EH1 2ED | lat=NA | long=NA | directions=north flank of Usher Hall | phone=+44 131 228-1404 (Box office) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7836167 | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Since 1992 this has hosted Traverse theatre company, dedicated to new works. }} * {{do | name=King's Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=2 Leven Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Closed until 2025. }} * {{do | name=Cameo Cinema | alt= | url=https://www.picturehouses.com/cinema/the-cameo | email= | address=38 Home St, EH3 9LZ | lat=55.9427 | long=-3.2038 | directions= | phone=+44 20 7326-2649 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The Cameo, Edinburgh | wikidata=Q7721081 | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Mainstream, arthouse and alternative films, with an Edwardian interior. }} * {{do | name=Odeon Cinema | alt= | url=https://www.odeon.co.uk/cinemas/edinburgh-lothian-road/ | email= | address=118 Lothian Road, EH3 8BQ | lat=55.9457 | long=-3.2059 | directions= | phone=+44 333 014 4501 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=Mostly mainstream movies. }} == Buy == [[File:Victoria Terrace - geograph.org.uk - 128903.jpg | thumb | 300px | Victoria Terrace above Victoria St ]] * '''Supermarkets:''' no big ones here, but smaller outlets for food such as Tesco Express line Nicholson St and Tolcross, mostly open daily. The nearest big mall is Cameron Toll 3 miles south. * '''Small independent shops''' are found around Victoria Street, Grassmarket and Cockburn Street; those on the Royal Mile are often tourist-traps. * {{buy | name=Red Door Gallery | alt= | url=https://www.edinburghart.com | email= | address=42 Victoria Street EH1 2JW | lat=55.948505 | long=-3.194503 | directions=opposite Bow Bar | phone=+44 131 477-3255 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-09 | content=Arts and crafts and giftware. }} * {{buy | name=Armstrongs | alt= | url=https://www.armstrongsvintage.co.uk/ | email= | address=83 Grassmarket EH1 2HJ | lat=55.9477 | long=-3.1943 | directions= | phone=+44 131 220-5557 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-5:30PM, Su noon-6PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-09 | content=A local institution, this has a huge stock of vintage clothing and uniforms, including pre-hirpled kilts. }} * {{buy | name=Underground Solu'shn | alt= | url=https://www.undergroundsolushn.com/ | email= | address=9 Cockburn Street EH1 1BP | lat=55.950678 | long=-3.190799 | directions=20 yards down from Stills Gallery | phone=+44 131 226-2242 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9AM-6PM, Sa 10AM-6PM, Su 11AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-09 | content=A great little record store dealing mainly in dance/electro music. }} * {{buy | name=Cadenhead's Whisky Shop | alt= | url=https://www.cadenhead.shop/ | email= | address=172 Canongate EH8 8DF | lat=55.951181 | long=-3.180364 | directions=50 yards up from Canongate Kirk | phone=+44 131 556-5864 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:30-5:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-09 | content=This Campbeltown-based firm is an independent bottler of whisky and other spirits (a rarity nowadays), so they do bespoke sales and samplers. }} * {{buy | name=Focus | alt= | url=https://www.focuspocus.co.uk/ | email= | address=270 Canongate EH8 8AA | lat=55.9506 | long=-3.1836 | directions= | phone=+44 131 557-0901 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-6PM, Su noon-6PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-09 | content=Skatewear and skateboard store, friendly knowledgeable staff. }} * '''[https://www.edinburghfarmersmarket.co.uk/ Farmers Market]''' is held Sa 9AM-2PM on the NCP car park on Castle Terrace, 100 yards east of Usher Hall. == Eat == [[File:Edinburgh mosque June 2007.jpg | thumb | 300px | Central Mosque ]] === Budget === Inexpensive eating places cluster along South Bridge / Nicolson Street / Clerk Street (one long street, the old road to Carlisle), along Forrest Rd, and at Tolcross to the west. * {{eat | name=The Piemaker | alt= | url=http://www.thepiemaker.co.uk/ | email= | address=38 South Bridge EH1 1LL | lat= | long= | directions=opposite ibis South Bridge | phone=+44 131 531-5795 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 10AM-8PM, F Sa 10AM-9PM, Su 10AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-05 | content=This has a wide range of delicious pies and savoury pastries, piping hot. They're mostly a takeaway and don't deliver, but have a few seats inside. }} * {{eat | name=Kebab Mahal | alt= | url=http://www.kebabmahaledinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=7 Nicolson Square EH8 9BH | lat=55.9462 | long=-3.1859 | directions= | phone=+44 131 667-5214 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-11:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-05 | content=Good halal curries, kebabs and tandooris, no alcohol. }} * '''[https://www.mosquekitchen.com/ Mosque Kitchen]''' is at 31 Nicholson Square (across from Kebab Mahal), open daily 11:30AM-10PM. * {{eat | name=The Original Mosque Kitchen | alt= | url=https://edinburghmosquekitchen.com/ | email= | address=50 Potterrow EH8 9BT | lat= | long= | directions=behind Central Mosque, or enter from Nicolson Square | phone=+44 131 629-1630 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:30AM-7:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-14 | content=Inexpensive chicken or vegetable curry. A favorite with generations of Edinburgh University students for its cost and portion sizes. }} * {{eat | name=Tempting Tattie | alt= | url=https://www.temptingtattie.co.uk | email= | address=18 Jeffrey Street EH1 1DT | lat=55.9511 | long=-3.1843 | directions= | phone=+44 131 629-5252 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11:30AM-8PM, F-Su 11:30AM-6:45PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=Inexpensive takeaway for trad baked potatoes. }} * '''[https://www.oinkhogroast.co.uk/ Oink]''' are a budget chain serving pulled pork sandwiches, nothing else, no chips, no crisps, no sides. They're at 34 Victoria Street opposite Bow Bar, 82 Canongate by the Scottish Parliament, and Hanover St in New Town. They're all open daily from 11AM until they sell out mid-afternoon. * {{eat | name=Kampong Ah Lee | alt= | url=https://www.kampongahlee.co.uk/ | email= | address=28 Clerk Street EH8 9HX | lat=55.9426 | long=-3.1824 | directions= | phone=+44 131 281-6172 | tollfree= | hours=W-M noon-3PM, 5-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Tasty Malaysian dishes such as Roti Canai, Satay, Nasi Lemak, Laksa and Rendang. }} * {{eat | name=Em’s Kitchen | alt= | url=https://www.emskitchen.co.uk/ | email= | address=38 St Mary's Street, EH1 1SX | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Full Scottish breakfast, shakshuka, coffee and tea options, with seating that looks into a quiet car park and garden. }} * {{eat | name=John's Coffee House & Tavern | alt= | url=https://johnscoffeehouse.com/ | email= | address=1A Parliament Square, EH1 1RF | lat= | long= | directions=behind St Giles' Cathdral | phone= | tollfree= | hours= daily 7AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-19 | content=Located in a historic building. Breakfast, all-day waffles, light lunch options, small plates to share, bar with wide range of Scotch whiskies. }} === Mid-range === [[File:EdinburghTalbotRiceGallery2017.jpg | thumb | 300px | Talbot Rice Gallery ]] * {{eat | name=The Everest | alt= | url=https://www.everestrestaurants.co.uk/ | email= | address=52 Home Street EH3 9NA | lat= | long= | directions=50 yards south of Cameo Cinema, Tollcross | phone=+44 131 229-1348 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 3-10:30PM, F Sa 2-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-05 | content=Good inexpensive Nepalese and Indian food. }} * {{eat | name=Petit Paris | alt= | url=http://www.petitparis-restaurant.co.uk/ | email= | address=38-40 Grassmarket EH1 2JU | lat= | long= | directions=central in Grassmarket | phone=+44 131 226-2442 | tollfree= | hours=Su-F noon-3PM, 5-10PM, Sa noon-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=Traditional French restaurant complete with chequered tablecloths and whitewashed walls. }} * {{eat | name=David Bann | alt= | url=https://www.davidbann.co.uk | email= | address=56-58 St Mary's Street EH1 1SX | lat=55.9495 | long=-3.1832 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556-5888 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon - 9:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=Imaginative and tasty vegetarian food, with lots available for vegans or GF. }} * {{eat | name=Whiski | alt= | url=https://www.whiskibar.co.uk/ | email=bar@whiskibar.co.uk | address=119 High Street EH1 1SG | lat= | long= | directions=next to Radisson Blu | phone=+44 131 556-3095 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-05 | content=A bit touristy, but a good choice for Scottish food, drink and music. Hundreds of whiskies available, bar staff happy to advise. Live music every night from 9:30PM, try to sit up front for this. }} * {{eat | name=Nok's Kitchen | alt= | url=https://www.nokskitchencastle.co.uk/ | email= | address=5a Johnston Terrace EH1 2PW | lat= | long= | directions=below Tolbooth Kirk / The Hub | phone=+44 131 225-6633 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-9PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=Decent Thai food with vegetarian options. They add 10% service to the menu prices. }} * {{eat | name=Ondine | alt= | url=https://www.ondinerestaurant.co.uk/ | email= | address=2 George IV Bridge EH1 1AD | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 131 226-1888 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa noon-3PM, 5:30-9:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=Quality seafood, but overpriced for what you get. }} * {{eat | name=Kanpai Sushi | alt= | url=https://kanpaisushiedinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=8-10 Grindlay St EH3 9AS | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Lyceum Theatre | phone=+44 131 228-1602 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa noon-2PM, 5-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=Small portions of sushi and other Japanese food, and pricey, but speedy service and memorable quality. }} * '''[https://www.yamatoedinburgh.co.uk/ Yamato]''' serves quality Japanese food at 11 Lochrin Terrace behind Cameo cinema. It's open Tu-Th 5-10:30PM, F-Su noon-10:30PM. * {{eat | name=Gurkha | alt=formerly Bombay Bicycle Club | url=https://gurkhaedinburgh.com/ | email= | address=6 Brougham Place EH3 9HW | lat=55.9426 | long=-3.2009 | directions= | phone=+44 131 229-3839 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 3PM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=Traditional Indian and Nepalese restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Kalpana | alt= | url=https://www.kalpnarestaurant.com/ | email= | address=2 St Patrick's Square EH8 9EZ | lat=55.9435 | long=-3.1832 | directions= | phone=+44 131 667-9890 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Long-established quality vegetarian Indian restaurant serving curries, thalis and tandooris. }} * {{eat | name=Tanjore | alt= | url=https://tanjore.co.uk | email= | address=6 Clerk Street EH8 9HX | lat= | long= | directions=Two doors down from Kalpna | phone=+44 131 478-6518 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-2:30PM, 5-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=One of the few places in Edinburgh serving South Indian food such as Dosas, Uttapams, Sambar and other Tamil specialities. }} * {{eat | name=MUMS | alt=Monster Mash Café | url=https://www.monstermashcafe.co.uk/ | email=mum@mumsgreatcomfortfood.com | address=4a Forrest Road EH1 2QN | lat=55.9460 | long=-3.1908 | directions= | phone=+44 131 260-9806 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-10PM, Su 10AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=Classic British comfort food: haggis, fish & chips, sausage & mash, stews, or shepherd's pie. Lots of veggie choices, no reservations. }} === Splurge === * {{eat | name=The Witchery by the Castle | alt= | url=https://www.thewitchery.com | email= | address=352 Castlehill EH1 2NF | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Camera Obscura | phone=+44 131 225-5613 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-11PM | price=B&B double £550 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=By the castle entrance, The Witchery serves top-class food in an elegant candle-lit restaurant. They've now added rooms, flamboyantly camp. }} * {{eat | name=Timberyard | alt= | url=https://www.timberyard.co/ | email= | address=10 Lady Lawson St EH3 9DS | lat= | long= | directions=beyond West Port | phone=+44 131 221-1222 | tollfree= | hours=Th 5-11PM, F-Su noon-3PM, 5:30-111PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=Outstanding Scottish cuisine in a 19th century warehouse, with extensive wine list. One Michelin star, the head chef is Jimmy Murray. }} == Drink == [[File:Sandy Bells (geograph 5580267).jpg | thumb | 300px | Sandy Bells on Forrest Road ]] === Pubs === : Royal Mile and Grassmarket pubs are often tourist traps or mobbed with stag and hen parties getting ratted. Here are some worth visiting: * {{drink | name=The Jolly Judge | alt= | url=https://jollyjudge.co.uk/ | email= | address=7 James Court EH1 2PB | lat= | long= | directions=off Lawnmarket next to Gladstone's Land | phone=+44 131 225-2831 | tollfree= | hours=Tu W noon-11PM, Th-Sa, M noon-midnight, Su 2PM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-05 | content=Cosy independent pub with a good selection of beer and whisky. One of the few pubs on Royal Mile that's not a tourist trap. }} * {{drink | name=Albanach | alt= | url=https://www.belhaven.co.uk/pubs/midlothian/albanach | email= | address=197 High St EH1 1PE | lat= | long= | directions=corner of Cockburn St | phone=+44 131 220-5277 | tollfree= | hours=Su-F noon-midnight, Sa noon-1:30AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=Cosy Belhaven pub with food and whisky. }} * {{drink | name=Doctors | alt= | url=https://www.belhaven.co.uk/pubs/midlothian/doctors | email= | address=32 Forrest Road EH1 2QN | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Medical School and Anatomy Museum | phone=+44 131 225-1819 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-1:30AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Now a Belhaven pub, this is a welcoming place with good ales and food. It was a few yards from the former Royal Infirmary, within bleep range and sprinting distance for the junior doctors. }} * {{drink | name=Sandy Bells | alt= | url=https://www.sandybells.co.uk | email= | address=25 Forrest Road EH1 2QH | lat= | long= | directions=opposite MUMS | phone=+44 131 225-2751 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa noon–1AM, Su 12:30PM–midnight | price= | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=Likewise frequented by medical students, this has live folk music every night. }} * {{drink | name=The Pear Tree | alt= | url=https://www.peartreeedinburgh.co.uk/ | email= | address=38 West Nicolson St EH8 9DD | lat=55.9444 | long=-3.1853 | directions= | phone=+44 131 667-7533 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=Popular with students, this has a large beer garden and outdoor big screen for TV sports. }} * {{drink | name=The Kilderkin | alt= | url=https://kilderkingroup.co.uk/ | email= | address=67 Canongate EH8 8BT | lat=55.9522 | long=-3.177 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556-2101 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 11AM-midnight, Su 11AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=Fair selection of cask ales and whisky, the food is so-so and the warmth of welcome varies. This is the original of a chain that now includes The Windsor on Elm Row, Blue Blazer on Spittal St and Bennets at Tolcross. }} * {{drink | name=The Bow Bar | alt= | url=https://www.thebowbar.co.uk/ | email= | address=80 West Bow EH1 2HH | lat=55.9484 | long=-3.1941 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226-7667 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-midnight | price= | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=Old-style boozer with a large selection of whiskies, selection of guest ales, and no background music. }} * {{drink | name=Bennets Bar | alt= | url=https://kilderkingroup.co.uk/ | email= | address=8 Leven St EH3 9LG | lat=55.9417 | long=-3.2032 | directions= | phone=+44 131 229-5143 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=A good old-fashioned pub, now part of Kilderkin group, with a wide selection of real ale and whisky. It was traditionally the place for pre / post-theatre drinks, but Kings Theatre next door is closed until 2025. }} === Nightclubs === [[File:Hare and Burke drawing.jpg | thumb | 300px | Burke (right) and Hare got you drunk ]] : Mostly along Cowgate, running east from Grassmarket beneath George IV Bridge and South Bridge. * {{drink | name=The Bongo Club | alt= | url=https://www.thebongoclub.co.uk | email= | address=66 Cowgate EH1 1JX | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 131 558-8844 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 11PM-3AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=A café-bar and live music venue. }} * {{drink | name=Cabaret Voltaire | alt= | url=https://www.thecabaretvoltaire.com | email= | address=36-38 Blair Street EH1 1QR | lat=55.9489 | long=-3.1873 | directions= | phone=+44 131 247-4704 | tollfree= | hours=Th-Sa 7PM-3AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=Atmospheric basement vault with regular gigs. }} * {{drink | name=Dragonfly | alt= | url=https://www.dragonflycocktailbar.com | email= | address=52 West Port EH1 2LD | lat=55.9464 | long=-3.1995 | directions= | phone=+44 131 228-4543 | tollfree= | hours=W-F, Su 4PM-1AM, Sa 2PM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Well-hidden but popular cocktail lounge. }} * {{drink | name=The Jazz Bar | alt= | url=https://www.thejazzbar.co.uk | email= | address=1a Chambers Street EH1 1HR | lat= | long= | directions=next to ibis South Bridge | phone=+44 131 220-4298 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu 7PM-midnight, W-F Su 5PM-3AM, Sa 2PM-3AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Live music every night, majoring on jazz; early shows are generally free, later gigs individually priced. Limited food or seating. }} * {{drink | name=The Liquid Room | alt= | url=https://www.liquidroom.com | email= | address=9c Victoria Street EH1 2HE | lat= | long= | directions=just above Bow Bar | phone=+44 131 225-2564 | tollfree= | hours=F Sa 11PM-3AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=800-capacity live music venue. }} * {{drink | name=Wash Bar | alt= | url=https://en-gb.facebook.com/thewashbar/ | email= | address=11-13 North Bank Street EH1 2LP | lat= | long= | directions=Behind Museum on the Mound | phone=+44 131 225-6193 | tollfree= | hours=W 4PM-1AM, Th-Su 2PM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-08 | content=Modern pub, mostly a local crowd, TV sport, no food. }} * {{drink | name=56 North | alt= | url=https://fiftysixnorth.co.uk/ | email= | address=2 West Crosscauseway EH8 9JP | lat= | long= | directions=Block south of Pear Tree | phone=+44 131 662-8860 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-12-10 | content=Cocktail bar incorporating South Loch gin distillery. }} * '''Holyrood distillery''' is at 19 St Leonard's Lane, see [[Edinburgh/South#Drink]]. == Sleep == [[File:ScotsmanDayExterior.jpg | thumb | 300px | The Scotsman on North Bridge ]] === Budget === * {{sleep | name=Motel One Edinburgh Royal | alt= | url=https://www.motel-one.com/en/hotels/edinburgh/hotel-edinburgh-royal/ | email= | address=18 Market St EH1 1BL | lat=55.9506 | long=-3.1916 | directions= | phone=+44 131 220-0730 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £80 | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Comfy efficient place by the station, great value. They have another branch by the bus station. }} * {{sleep | name=Kick Ass Greyfriars | alt=previously Budget Backpackers | url=https://kickasshostels.co.uk/kick-ass-greyfriars/ | email=greyfriars@kickasshostels.co.uk | address=37-39 Cowgate EH1 1JR | lat=55.9479 | long=-3.1931 | directions= | phone=+44 131 226-6351 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm £16 ppn | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=Cheerful friendly staff and modern amenities. Offers dormitory beds and 2-4 bed private rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Code The Court | alt= | url=https://www.codehostels.com/ | email=thecourt@codehostels.com | address=1A Parliament Square, EH1 1RF | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-19 | content=Hybrid hostel/hotel in a former jail and courtroom. Offers pod capsules and private rooms. }} * '''[https://kickasshostels.co.uk/kick-ass-grassmarket/ Kick Ass Grassmarket]''' is their other hostel at 2 West Port EH1 2JA, similar price and quality. * '''[https://www.highstreethostel.com/ High Street Hostel]''' at 8 Blackfriars St is the best of those on that street, descending behind Radisson Blu. Others at its foot on Cowgate are [https://www.aohostels.com/en/edinburgh/edinburgh-city/ A&O Hostel] and Edinburgh Metro. * {{sleep | name=Castle Rock Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.castlerockedinburgh.com/ | email= | address=15 Johnston Terrace EH1 2PW | lat= | long= | directions=just below Castle and The Hub | phone=+44 131 225-9666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorms from £12 ppn | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=Clean spacious hostel with 300 beds on the hill just below Castle Esplanade. }} === Mid-range === * {{sleep | name=ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/8484/index.en.shtml | email= | address=77 South Bridge EH1 1HN | lat=55.9484 | long=-3.1870 | directions= | phone=+44 131 292-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2023-12-02 | content=Reliable chain hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=ibis Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile - Hunter Square | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/2039/index.en.shtml | email= | address=6 Hunter Square EH1 1QW | lat=55.9496 | long=-3.1882 | directions= | phone=+44 131 619-2800 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £95 | lastedit=2023-12-05 | content=Slick welcoming inexpensive hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre | alt= | url=https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/scotland/lothian/edinburgh/edinburgh-city-centre-royal-mile.html | email= | address=33 East Market St EH8 8FR | lat=55.9514 | long=-3.1839 | directions= | phone=+44 333 234-6430 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Good reliable chain hotel by the station. }} * {{sleep | name=Leonardo Royal Hotel | alt=formerly Jury's Inn | url=https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/hotels/edinburgh/ | email= | address=43 Jeffrey St EH1 1DH | lat=55.9512 | long=-3.1857 | directions= | phone=+44 131 200-3300 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Good value place next to the railway station. }} * {{sleep | name=Ten Hill Place Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.tenhillplace.com | email= | address=10 Hill Place EH8 9DS | lat=55.9467 | long=-3.1836 | directions= | phone=+44 131 662-2080 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2023-12-04 | content=Central but quiet hotel in a Georgian terrace with 78 bedrooms. }} * '''KM Hotel''' and apartments are at 5 Richmond Place round the corner from Ten Hill Place. They're among several run by the University of Edinburgh, see [[Edinburgh/South#Sleep]]. * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/edinburgh/edbrm/hoteldetail | email= | address=300 Cowgate EH1 1NA | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 131 524-8400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2023-12-02 | content=They call it "Royal Mile" but it's in the dark canyon of Cowgate 200 yards south - still a very central location, and value for money. }} * '''[https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/205/Edinburgh-Central-hotel Travelodge Edinburgh Central]''' is at 33 St Mary's St round the corner from Holiday Inn. [[File:Scandic Crown Hotel, High Street - geograph.org.uk - 1343722.jpg | thumb | 300px | Radisson Blu has a retro-antique facade ]] * {{sleep | name=Edinburgh Holyrood Hotel | alt=formerly Macdonald Holyrood | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/edimh-edinburgh-holyrood-hotel/overview/ | email= | address=81 Holyrood Rd EH8 8AU | lat=55.9509 | long=-3.1771 | directions= | phone=+44 131 528-8000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Now part of Marriott chain, this is under renovation but remains open. }} * {{sleep | name=Apex Grassmarket | alt= | url=https://www.apexhotels.co.uk/destinations/edinburgh/apex-grassmarket-hotel/ | email= | address=31-35 Grassmarket EH1 2HS | lat= | long= | directions=central in Grassmarket | phone=+44 131 300-3456 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £70 | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=Comfy place to stay with great views of the castle. }} * {{sleep | name=Apex City of Edinburgh | alt= | url=https://www.apexhotels.co.uk/apex-city-of-edinburgh-hotel | email= | address=61 Grassmarket EH1 2HJ | lat= | long= | directions=next to Apex Grassmarket | phone=+44 131 243-3456 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £70 | lastedit=2023-12-07 | content=Similar price and quality to their branch at No 31. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel du Vin | alt= | url=https://www.hotelduvin.com/ | email= | address=11 Bristo Place EH1 1EZ | lat= | long= | directions=100 yards south of Greyfriars Bobby | phone=+44 131 285-1479 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £130 | lastedit=2023-12-10 | content=Great comfort, service and location beyond its price bracket. }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/3271/index.en.shtml | email= | address=80 Lauriston Place EH3 9DE | lat=55.9450 | long=-3.1997 | directions= | phone=+44 131 656-3500 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Mid-range chain near Tolcross. }} * '''[https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/scotland/lothian/edinburgh/edinburgh-city-centre-lauriston-place.html Premier Inn]''' has another hotel at 82 Lauriston Place next to Novotel. Similar quality and price to their branch on Market St. * {{sleep | name=DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City Centre | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ediccdi-doubletree-edinburgh-city-centre/ | email= | address=34 Bread St EH3 9AF | lat=55.9457 | long=-3.203 | directions= | phone=+44 131 221-5555 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £130 | lastedit=2023-12-06 | content=Comfy hotel near Usher Hall, short walk to the castle. }} === Splurge === * {{sleep | name=The Scotsman | alt= | url=https://scotsmanhotel.co.uk | email= | address=20 North Bridge EH1 1TR | lat=55.9509 | long=-3.1887 | directions= | phone=+44 131 556-5565 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £230 | wikipedia=The Scotsman Hotel | wikidata=Q7762635 | lastedit=2023-12-02 | content=This iconic building stands like a castle guarding the entrance to Old Town from North Bridge. From 1904 to 2001 it housed ''The Scotsman'' newspaper, with editors and reporters above, printing presses below, and newspapers loaded onto trains from the basement. After they moved out it became an upscale hotel, charmingly refurbished within and scoring highly for comfort, service and location. }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Edinburgh Carlton | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/edicahi-hilton-edinburgh-carlton/ | email= | address=19 North Bridge EH1 1SD | lat=55.9508 | long=-3.1874 | directions= | phone=+44 131 472-3000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £330 | lastedit=2023-12-02 | content=Great location, service and comfort mostly good, some construction noise. }} * {{sleep | name=Sheraton Grand Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/edisi-sheraton-grand-hotel-and-spa-edinburgh/ | email= | address=1 Festival Square EH3 9SR | lat=55.947 | long=-3.2073 | directions=facing Usher Hall | phone=+44 131 229-9131 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2023-12-02 | content=Part of Marriott chain, great location and for most visitors great comfort, but housekeeping is too erratic for what you pay. }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Blu Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-edinburgh | email= | address=80 High Street EH1 1TH | lat=55.9501 | long=-3.1867 | directions=jcn of Royal Mile and North Bridge | phone=+44 131 557-9797 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £350 | lastedit=2023-12-02 | content=Great location, comfort and service. The hotel was built in 1990, but with a retro-antique facade to blend with neighbouring buildings. }} * {{sleep | name=Cheval Old Town Chambers | alt= | url=https://www.chevalcollection.com/cheval-old-town-chambers/ | email= | address=323 High St EH1 1PN | lat= | long= | directions=opposite St Giles | phone=+44 131 510-5499 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £250 | lastedit=2023-12-02 | content=This knock-through of medieval tenements was designed as luxury serviced apartments, but has added common areas to create a townhouse hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Collection Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-collection-edinburgh-royal-mile | email= | address=1 George IV Bridge | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 131 220-6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2023-12-02 | content=Closed for refurbishment. }} == Connect == Public libraries have internet stations and other resources, but you need a card to access them - see [[Edinburgh#Connect]] for how to do this. Central Library (above) is the only one in Old Town, at 7 George IV Bridge opposite the National Library. There are some 30 branches across the city. == Go next == * All of the city can be easily reached from Old Town, but the obvious area to explore next is [[Edinburgh/New Town | New Town]], with Princes Street its main boulevard. * [[Edinburgh/South|South Edinburgh]] starts from the Meadows. Quieter parts are Blackford Hill and the Pentlands rearing up at the city's edge. * Bus 29 and trains towards Tweedbank take you to the National Mining Museum at [[Dalkeith | Gorebridge]]. {{routebox | image1=UK_road_A7.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=NW | majorl1=[[Edinburgh/New Town|New Town]] | minorl1= | directionr1=SE | minorr1=[[Edinburgh/South|South Edinburgh]] | majorr1=[[Dalkeith]] }} {{geo|55.94653|-3.17659|zoom=15}} {{IsPartOf|Edinburgh}} {{guidedistrict}} {{Related|UNESCO_World_Heritage_List}} {{Mapmask|55.9490,-3.2067|55.9489,-3.2052|55.9487,-3.2047|55.9498,-3.2020|55.9511,-3.1946|55.9512,-3.1918|55.9515,-3.1882|55.9536,-3.1784|55.9558,-3.1731|55.9563,-3.1723|55.9560,-3.1719|55.9556,-3.1720|55.9554,-3.1722|55.9552,-3.1720|55.9545,-3.1715|55.9539,-3.1709|55.9540,-3.1697|55.9536,-3.1693|55.9538,-3.1675|55.9542,-3.1667|55.9543,-3.1665|55.9543,-3.1658|55.9544,-3.1650|55.9547,-3.1642|55.9547,-3.1632|55.9548,-3.1628|55.9548,-3.1622|55.9547,-3.1613|55.9547,-3.1579|55.9544,-3.1573|55.9543,-3.1557|55.9537,-3.1542|55.9532,-3.1533|55.9529,-3.1519|55.9521,-3.1510|55.9518,-3.1499|55.9507,-3.1501|55.9490,-3.1498|55.9474,-3.1491|55.9460,-3.1491|55.9454,-3.1488|55.9441,-3.1498|55.9431,-3.1503|55.9422,-3.1498|55.9416,-3.1499|55.9418,-3.1508|55.9416,-3.1514|55.9407,-3.1529|55.9410,-3.1540|55.9411,-3.1546|55.9401,-3.1579|55.9397,-3.1603|55.9395,-3.1625|55.9403,-3.1676|55.9430,-3.1767|55.9435,-3.1773|55.9427,-3.1793|55.9429,-3.1795|55.9423,-3.1823|55.9417,-3.1838|55.9411,-3.1831|55.9411,-3.1834|55.9420,-3.1864|55.9422,-3.1897|55.9425,-3.1902|55.9426,-3.1914|55.9426,-3.1932|55.9424,-3.1969|55.9421,-3.2006|55.9422,-3.2007|55.9421,-3.2010|55.9419,-3.2011|55.9410,-3.2009|55.9408,-3.2035|55.9420,-3.2034|55.9426,-3.2036|55.9432,-3.2037|55.9438,-3.2039|55.9449,-3.2052|55.9458,-3.2055|55.9490,-3.2067}} ozrskz7v9pwm0uak0wq1mjc01sk0595 0 10859 5091140 4985992 2025-07-11T01:53:39Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Eat */ typo 5091140 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|EloraMill71.jpg}} [[File:Houses_on_the_River,_Elora.jpg|thumb|right|Houses on the River, Elora]] '''[http://www.elora.info/ Elora]''' is a small town near [[Guelph]], [[Ontario]], [[Canada]]. It is extremely picturesque, sitting along the Grand River and the Elora Gorge. The architecture is very appealing, featuring stonework buildings built by Scottish stonemasons over a century ago. There is a vibrant and creative artistic community thriving in Elora. Elora Gorge is a beautiful sight that attracts sightseers, campers, hikers, kayakers and tubers. The limestone cliffs are 22 metres high and the Grand River exits frantically through the Gorge. It is possible to hike to scenic overlooks next to the Gorge along riverside trails - there are some magnificent views. ==Understand== It is well known for its 19th-century limestone architecture and the geographically significant Elora Gorge. *'''[http://www.elora.info Welcome Centre]''', 5 Mill Street East, +1 519-846-9841. ===History=== Roman Catholic missionaries first visited this area in the early to mid-1600s "to Christianize" the indigenous people, particularly the Neutral Nation on the old Attiwandaronk Lands. The first European settlers arrived in 1817. Elora was founded in 1832 by Captain William Gilkison, from Scotland, who was a British officer recently returned from India. He had also served in the War of 1812. He bought 14,000 acres of land on the Grand River and settled on the east side of the river. The plan for the settlement was laid out by Lewis Burwell, in late 1832, when it was called Irvine Settlement. By 1833, Gilkison had opened a sawmill and a general store. The village was renamed Elora when the post office was established in 1839. Gilkison named the community after his brother's ship, which was inspired by the Ellora Caves near Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. In the 1850s and 1860s, Elora was a major agricultural marketplace. The flour mill and sawmill were powered by the Grand River. By 1870, several other mills, two distilleries, a carpet factory, tannery and two furniture factories were operating. Still standing, the five-storey original Elora grist mill from the 1830s was a sawmill, a distillery and a flour mill over the subsequent years. It is now a luxury hotel and spa. ==Get in== *'''By car''': Highway 7 - 20 km (12.4 miles) northwest of Guelph [[File:EloraBridge.jpg|thumb|Metcalfe bridge]] *'''By taxi''': $40-55 from Guelph (July 2018) *'''By bus:''' [https://www.owensound.ca/en/living/guelph-owen-sound-transportation.aspx GOST] travels to Guelph, and north to [[Owen Sound]]. On Saturdays and holiday Mondays Apr-Oct, [https://parkbus.ca/elora Park Bus] runs one schoolbus a day from Toronto (leaves 30 Carlton St near College subway at 8:15AM and 1126 Bloor St West near Dufferin subway at 8:30AM), arrives in Elora town at 10:10AM and Elora Gorge at 10:20AM, and leaves Elora at 3:20/3:30PM. One Way/Return tickets: adults $35/49, students/seniors $32/44, children $18/25; conservation area entry fees are included. ==Get around== {{mapframe}} The major sites around the town are all accessible by walking. ==See== The village centre hs many historic buildings from the 1800s, many built of local stone. One of the sites worth seeing is the Tooth of Time, a rock formation carved from the river. It is visible from many vistas throughout the town. * {{see | name=Elora Mill | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.68086 | long=-80.43184 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109771722 | content=a large 19th-century mill. }}- * {{see | name=Elora Gorge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.67292 | long=-80.4487 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5367207 | content=a limestone gorge carved out by a river. trails run along the cliff top, and stairs allow visitors to access the floor of the gorge. wading through the gorge is a great experience, but bring sandals as the rocks can be sharp. }} ==Do== *'''[http://www.elorafestival.com/ Elora Festival]''' - The Elora Festival is a glorious summertime tradition of classical music, international music, jazz and folk. Over the years, the festival has hosted some of the world's most engaging artists against a backdrop of rural resplendence. The summer season runs from July to August and the lineup is announced in April. The Winter Series is equally an event not to be missed. *'''Elora Cataract Trailway''' - Walk or ride the [http://www.trailway.org/ Trailway]. *'''Elora Quarry Conservation Area''' - walk, swim, hike, picnic. An old limestone quarry that has long been a popular swimming area. *[https://eloratours.com/services '''Guided walking tours''']. [[File:Elora_Gorge_Conservation_Area,_Elora_.24.jpg|thumb|Elora Gorge Conservation Area]] * {{do | name=Elora Gorge Conservation Area | alt= | url=http://www.grandriver.ca/index/document.cfm?sec=27&sub1=124&sub2=0 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers hiking, canoeing, kayaking and tubing. }} * {{do | name=Elora Rapids & Adventure Tours | alt= | url=https://www.elorarapids.com | email= | address=285 Geddes St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 519-831-5247 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Tube rental $30 per person plus $12 park fee | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-07-25 | content=River tubing, bike tours. }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Zipline | alt= | url=https://www.oneaxepursuits.com/courses/elora-skyrider-zipline-near-toronto-ontario/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Across the Elora Gorge. $150 per person. See website for schedule. }} *{{listing | type=do | name=Grand River Raceway & Slots | alt= | url=https://grandriverraceway.com/ | email= | address=7445 County Rd. 21 | lat=43.6731 | long=-80.4305 | directions= | phone=+1 519-846-5455 | tollfree= | hours=M&ndash;Th 9AM&ndash;2AM, F-Su 24 hours | price= | wikidata=Q5595053 | content=Features seasonal live harness racing, over 200 slot machines, and the River's Edge Restaurant, which offers fine casual dining. }} ==Buy== * {{Buy|name=Elora Mews Shops|alt=|url=https://www.eloramews.com/|image=Elora_stores.jpg|email=|address=45 Mill Street West|directions=|lat=43.68131|long=-80.43055|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2019-07-19|content=Gallery of original art and unique home decor, Celtic shop, quilt shop, floral boutique - specialty shops in a lantern-lit courtyard within historic limestone walls.}} [[File:Elora stores.jpg|thumb|Elora Mews Courtyard]] *{{buy | name=Artists Studio Tour | url=https://elorafergusstudiotour.com/| email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=0 | content=Here's your chance to get a look behind the scenes. Take a self-guided tour and meet artists where they live and work. Each of the artists and craftspeople will open their studios for two consecutive fall weekends. The Elora Fergus Studio Tour is completely free of charge. You'll get a chance to meet directly with the artists, and often see work not shown in gallery settings. You'll visit the working spaces of both established and emerging artists, from basements to self contained studios. }} ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Elora Mill Restaurant | alt= | url=https://eloramill.ca/explore-dining/the-restaurant/ | email= | address=77 West Mill St | lat=43.680907 | long=-80.431977 | directions= | phone=+1 519 846-8464 | tollfree= | hours=7:30-10:00AM, noon-3:30PM, 5:00-9:30PM | price=Mains from $31 | image=Elora_Mill_restaurant_outside.jpg | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Steaks, burgers, and pasta. Great views. Try to get a seat at the windows just above the Grand River. }} * {{eat | name=The Cellar Pub and Grill | alt= | url=http://www.thecellarpubelora.com/ | email= | address=13 Hill St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 519-846-1333 | tollfree= | hours=W-Su 11AM-9PM | price=Lunch mains $15-18, dinner mains $24-27 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-07-25 | content=Dine inside or on the riverside patio. }} * {{eat | name=Desert Rose Cafe | alt= | url=https://desertroseelora.com/ | email= | address=130 Metcalfe | lat=43.6828010 | long=-80.4306022 | directions= | phone=+1 519-846-0433 | tollfree= | hours=W Th 11AM-3:30PM, F Sa 11AM-7:30PM, Su 10AM-3:30PM, open Holiday Mondays | price=Mains $8-13 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-07-25 | content=Homemade vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free cooking. }} * {{eat | name=Gorge Country Kitchen | alt= | url=http://www.thegorge.ca/ | email= | address=82 Wellington Rd 7 | lat=43.67486 | long=-80.42568 | directions= | phone=+1 519-846-2636 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M 7AM-8PM, Tu-Th 7AM-8:30PM, F Sa 7AM-9PM, Su 8AM-8PM | price=Sandwiches $5-14, mains $13-28 | lastedit=2018-07-25 | content=Family-run restaurant offering homestyle meals, a bar & seasonal patio seating. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Elora Brewing Company | alt= | url=http://elorabrewingcompany.ca/ | email= | address=107 Geddes St | lat=43.6833810 | long=-80.4300981 | directions= | phone=+1 519-805-2829 | tollfree= | hours=Pub M-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-1AM, Su 11AM-9PM; bottle shop M-Sa 11AM-11PM, Su 11AM-9PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-07-25 | content=Gastropub. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Elora Mill gate.jpg|thumb|Elora Mill Hotel]] * {{sleep | name=The Elora Mill | alt= | url=https://www.eloramill.ca | email=info@eloramill.ca | address=77 Mill St | lat=43.68086 | long=-80.43173 | directions= | phone=+1 519-846-8464| tollfree=+1-866-713-5672 | image=Elora_Mill.jpg | price= From $600 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=West Elora. A mill dating to the 19th century and Canada's only standing five-storey mill. It has 32 guest rooms, with four poster and canopy beds. Ask for a room that overlooks the river and Elora Gorge (Tooth of Time waterfall) views. The Inn has many authentic antiques and handcrafted items and at the same time, has modern conveniences (for example, a jacuzzi). }} *{{sleep | name=Flying Leap Bed and Breakfast | url=http://www.theflyingleap.com/ | email= | address=249 Geddes Street | lat=43.6854149 | long=-80.432952 | directions=corner of David and Geddes | phone = +1 226 369-0376 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=$140+ | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | content=The Flying Leap is a Victorian home built in 1891 with many original features. Each of their 4 guest rooms has its own en suite bathroom. A full hot breakfast is included in the price of the room, and baking is their specialty. }} * {{Sleep|name=The Village Inn|alt=|url=https://www.villageinnelora.com/|email=|address=66 Wellington Rd 7|lat=43.67679|long=-80.42853|directions=|phone=+1 888 733 3567|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=$100|lastedit=2019-10-09|content=Inexpensive motel within walking distance of downtown Elora}} ==Go next== * '''[[Elmira (Ontario)|Elmira]]''' — a small community {{km|20}} southwest, known for its Mennonite population, and Maple Syrup. * '''[[Fergus]]''' — the next town if you follow the Grand River for about {{km|5}}, with a heritage downtown. * '''[[Guelph]]''' — the largest city in [[Wellington and Dufferin Counties]], {{km|25}} southeast. {{Usablecity}} {{geo|43.685000|-80.427222}} {{IsPartOf|Wellington and Dufferin Counties}} ozfninfebq0grdr2uy6ifpee5b2qph7 0 11172 5091130 5068179 2025-07-11T01:33:45Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Other sights */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091130 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Esztergom banner Bazilika Lights.jpg|caption=Esztergom Cathedral at night}} [http://www.esztergom.hu/ '''Esztergom'''] is a town in the [[Danube Bend]] region, on the right bank of the river Danube, that is, on the border between Slovakia and Hungary. The original capital of the Kingdom of Hungary, Esztergom preserves its sites of medieval significance. The biggest basilica (church) of Central Europe can be found in Esztergom. ==Understand== {{Mapframe|47.7897|18.7444|zoom=14}} {{Mapshape|type=geomask|wikidata=Q171353,Q1089163,Q748797,Q1185182,Q1046954,Q1107920|stroke-width=0}} ==Get in== [[File:Amadeus (ship, 1997) 002.jpg|thumb|Amadeus at Port of Esztergom]] ===By car=== *From [[Budapest]] drive out in direction Buda north on road No 10 (Pilisvörösvár-Dorog-Esztergom) - about 45 km *From Budapest drive out in direction Buda north on road No 11 then turn left at Szentendre towards [[Pomáz]] and climb the [[Pilis]] hills to arrive at Esztergom -about 50 km *From Budapest drive out in direction Buda north on road No 11 and follow the Danube along ([[Szentendre]]-[[Visegrád]]-Esztergom) - about 65 km. This route is longer than the previous ones but much more scenic. *From [[Slovakia]]: [[Bratislava]]-Komarno-Štúrovo E 575, then local road no. 63, and cross the Danube river at Sturovo *From [[Vienna]]: E60, E75 highway, in Hungary M1 till way out at Komárom (9 km), then local roads no. 10 and no. 11 till Esztergom ===By train=== * {{listing|type=go | name=Train station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.7776 | long=18.7431 | directions=roughly a twenty minutes walk from the town center and basilica. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Esztergom.desiro.JPG | hours= | price= | content=[[Budapest]]: #1 local train from Nyugati PU. (Western Railstation) about 45 km.or #2 InterCity/EuroCity fast trains departing from Keleti PU. (Eastern Railstation) For example, the IC 170 runs from Budapest to Berlin with a stop in Štúrovo. Štúrovo railway station is on the opposite side of the Danube from Esztergom, in the Slovakian town of Štúrovo. Getting the train to Štúrovo involves a longer walk (1-1½ hours) to Esztergom. However, it offers the novelty of travelling by train just over the Hungary-Slovakia border, then walking back to into Hungary on the new bridge over the river Danube. If you are only interested in the view, it is faster to just walk across the bridge for the view and then back to Esztergom. }} ===By bus=== * {{listing | name=Bus station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in the town center, a 2-minute walk from the main square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=#1[[Budapest]]-Dorog-Esztergom (45 km) or #2 Budapest-[[Visegrád]]-Esztergom (65 km) local far-distance Volan bus line from Árpád Bridge Volan bus station in Pest. #3 take HÉV suburb train from Buda Batthyány Square till end-station in Szentendre, than Volan bus line Szentendre-[[Visegrád]]-Esztergom. }} ===By boat=== * {{go | name=Port Esztergom | alt=Kishajó kikötő | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.79279 | long=18.73149 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Amadeus (ship, 1997) 002.jpg | content=Daily boat line MAHART Passnave from Budapest Vigadó Square at Pest. }} * {{listing | type=go|name=Pilismarót ferry pier| alt=Pilismaróti RÉV | url= | email= | address=Pilismarót |lat=47.81030 | long=18.85871 | directions=2½ km north from Pilismarót, 2 km stay on Hwy 11 then turn north | phone=+36 30 9144195| fax= | hours=Apr-Oct daily 06.50, 08.50-18.50, hourly | price= | content= ferries to Szob}} * {{listing | type=go|name=Dömös ferry pier | alt=Dömösi moló | url= | email= | address= |lat=47.76608 | long=18.91738 | directions= | phone=+36 30 9913300 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The ferry boats to Nagymaros were suspended in 2014 (call the number to check it), but excursion boats between Budapest and Esztergom stop here. }} * {{listing| image= | type=go|name=Pilismarót ferry pier | alt=Pilismarót | url= | email= | address=Pilismarót, Szobi Rév utca | lat=47.79897 | long=18.89888 | directions=Dunapart district, turn east from Hwy 11 at Catholic church on Bajcsy-Zsilinszky street cca. 2 km to pier | phone= | fax= | hours=From May 31-Aug 17 F Sa Su; Aug 23-Sep 28 on weekends and public holidays | price= Ft400 (2014) | content=Ferries to Zebegény. [http://www.dunakanyar.hu/menetrendek Timetable] }} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} ===Paking=== when visiting the Basilica or the castle you can use : * {{go | name= Basilica Parking | alt=Bazilika, bal oldali parkoló | url= | email= | address=Szent István tér |lat=47.79990|long=18.74044| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=paid parking | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-07-21 | content= }} ==See== [[image:Interior of basilica of Esztergom Cathedral.JPG|thumb|right|200px|Pulpit of the Basilica]] ===Churches=== * {{see | name=Esztergom Basilica | alt=The Main Cathedral of Ascension and primate St. Adalbert, Esztergomi Főszékesegyház, Mennyekbe Felvett Boldogságos Szűz Mária, Nagyboldogasszony és Szent Adalbert prímási főszékesegyház vagy esztergomi bazilika | url=http://www.bazilika-esztergom.hu/ | email=ebazilika@gmail.com | address=Szent István tér 1 | lat=47.7991 | long=18.7366 | directions=on castle hill. | phone=+36 33 402354 | tollfree= | fax=+36 33 402353 | hours=Summer (27 Mar – 27 Oct): 08:00-18:00, Winter: 08:00-16:00 | price=Entrance to the basilica is free | image=Bazilika.homlokzat.jpg | lastedit=2014 | content=The town's claim to fame and the largest basilica in the country. It was in a church built on the same spot that the Hungarian king Vajk was baptised and from then on known as Saint Stephen. Rebuilt according the plans of Pál Kühnel, János Páckh and József Hild from 1822 to 1869. The Basilica of Esztergom, being the cathedral of the Primate of Hungary, is the first in rank, and also the largest among the churches in the country. The church in the place of the present Basilica was founded by King St. Stephen during the first decade of our statehood. The classicist church is enormous: the height of the dome is 71.5 meters; it has giant arches and an enormous '''altar'''-piece by Michelangelo Grigoletti and contains the relics of Saint Marko Krizin who was beheaded by Calvinists for refusing to denounce his Catholic faith. On one side, in the '''Saint Stephen chapel''', the glittering relics of Hungarian and other nations’ saints and valuable jewellery can be seen. On the south side, the '''Bakócz Chapel''', the only one that survived the Middle Ages, can be seen. }}[[image:Esztergom.Treasury.011.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Treasury of Esztergom Cathedral]] ** {{see | name=Treasury | alt=Kincstár | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.79901 | long=18.73581 | directions= | phone=+36 20 8280626 | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Aug: 09:00-18:00, Feb-May and Sep-Oct: till 17:00, Nov-Jan: till 16:00 | price=Ft&nbsp;1800, Students and pensioners: Ft&nbsp;900 | image=Esztergom.Treasury.001.jpg | lastedit=2014 | content=It has many masterpieces of medieval goldsmith's works. The western European masters hands are praised by such items as the crown silver cross that has been used since the 13th century, the ornate chalices, Francesco Francia’s processional cross, the upper part of the well-known ‘Matthias-Calvary’ which is decorated in the rare ronde-bosse enamel technique, also there is a vast collection of traditional Hungarian and European textiles, including chasubles, liturgical vestments and robes. }} [[image:Esztergom - bazilika altemplom lejatat.JPG|thumb|right|200px|Entrance staircase of Basilica crypt of Esztergom Cathedral]] ** {{see | name=Crypt | alt=Kripta | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.79891 | long=18.736 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Mar–Oct 09:00-17:00, Nov–Feb 10:00-16:00, 24 Dec closed | price=Ft&nbsp;600 | image=EsztregomFotoThaler11.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=The huge crypt, built in Old Egyptian style in 1831, is today the resting place of late archbishops, among others, József Mindszenty, famous for his opposition to Nazi and Communist rule. }} ** {{see | name=Lookout, Cupola | alt=Kupola kilátó | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.79913 | long=18.73667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Apr–Oct: 09:30-17:00, can be visited in good weather only. | price=Ft&nbsp;2400 | image=Esztergom Kathedrale Mariä Himmelfahrt Kuppel 1.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Almost 400 steps lead up to the dome's balcony from the entrance of the basilica. The spherical over dome is 2.5 m in diameter, the cross is 7 m tall. }} ** {{see | name=Organ | alt=Orgona | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.79923 | long=18.73689 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Esztergom basilica organ Hungary.jpg | content=The organ has five manuals and by 2006 had 85 stops working out of the planned 146. The organ contains the largest organ pipes in Hungary, 10 m long. The smallest pipe is 7 mm. It is one of the largest organs in Europe, surpassing all organs in Hungary in volume and in the variety of stops. }} [[image:Esztergom panoráma Belvárosi templommal.JPG|thumb|right|200px|Jesuits parish-church of Esztergom]] * {{see | name=Jesuits parish-church | alt=Loyolai Szent Ignác Parish Church, Belvárosi templom, Loyolai Szent Ignác Plébánia Templom | url=http://www.esztergomi-ersekseg.hu/?fm=1&am=4&op=plebaniaview&p_id=35 | email= | address=Esztergom, Mindszenti Hercegprímás tere 1 | lat=47.7966 | long=18.7347 | directions=in the centre of the Víziváros (Watertown) | phone=+36 33 413878 | tollfree= | fax=+36 33 413878 | image=Esztergom panoráma Belvárosi templommal.JPG | hours= | price= | content=The Water District, twin-towered church built by the Jesuits between 1728 and 1738 in Baroque style, by the architect Ignác Oratsek. Most of the original equipment and Baroque Organ under World War II destroyed, but is still can see the Baroque Baumgartner's altars which were made in 1735-1737. }} * {{see | name=St. Peter and Paul Church of Inner City Parish | alt=Esztergomi Szent Péter és Pál plébánia, Belvárosi plébánia | url=http://belvarosiesztergom.hu/ | email=sztpeterespal@egomnet.hu | address=Esztergom, IV. Béla király utca 3./ Deák Ferenc utca | lat=47.79036 | long=18.73815 | directions=south of City Hall | phone=+36 33 413791, +36 20 7752841 | tollfree= | fax=+36 33 413791 | hours=Parish office: M-F 15:00-18:00 | price= | content=The St. Peter's parish was the predecessor of today's inner city parish, and was first mentioned in 1294. the St. Peter and Paul Church was built in 1699 on its walls. After extended in 1762, Archbishop Ferenc Barkóczy consecrated the huge, ancient, baroque church (990 m²). The main altarpiece depicting St. Peter and St. Paul, donate Kolos Vaszary Archbishop in 1896. The Baroque high altar was replaced in 1900 with a marble high altar. The fence of the wall of the church placed a St. John Nepomuk statue (18th century) monument. Similarly, a monument the parish house (1784). Throughout the year there is '''pilgrim accommodation''' here, by appointment. }} [[image:Esztergom - Ferences templom.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Saint Anne of Downtown Franciscan church]] * {{see | name=Saint Anne (Downtown) Franciscan church | alt=Belvárosi ferences templom (Szent Anna-templom) | url= | email=esztergom-lelk@ofm.hu | address=Bottyán János St., 10 | lat=47.79051 | long=18.7398 | directions=Close to Főapát Way | phone=+36 33 510290 | tollfree= | fax=+36 33 510291 | hours= | price= | image=Esztergom - Ferences templom.jpg | content=Single-towered building, also masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Built between 1700–1755. }} * {{see | name=Baroque Calvary, with the Classicist chapel | alt=Szent Tamás Calvary and Saint Stephen Chapel, Szent Tamás hegyi kálvária és kápolna | url= | email= | address=Saint Thomas Hill (Szent Tamás hegy) | lat=47.7541 | long=18.7516 | directions=On the southern slopes of the Saint Thomas Hill, 1 km east of Esztergom Airport, cross over Szentléleki Creek, toward south on Látóhegyi road further about 600 m and turn to east 500 m to the church | phone=+36 33 413878 | tollfree= | fax=+36 33 413878 | hours= | price= | content=These were built to commemorate the heroes who died for Esztergom. The hill was named after a church built by Bishop Lukács Bánffy in memoriam the martyr Saint Thomas Becket, who had been his fellow student at the University of Paris. The church which the Turks built there were destroyed a long time ago. In 1823, Bishop János Benyovszky canon was built in honor of Our Lady of Sorrows a classicist, the historic chapel. A six stationed way leading up to the hill. Before the chapel seen a monumental sculpture group - crucifix, the Virgin Mary, Saint János, Mary Magdalene, two thieves - dates back to 1781. The chapel locates the relic of Saint Thomas Becket. The Baroque Calvary was built in 1781. The classicist Calvary Chapel made in 1823 honored to Our Lady of Sorrows. The building has wall pillar, triangular vaults, small front tower, which is behind the pediments. }} [[image:Esztergom.StAnna.Church.JPG|thumb|right|200px|Round Church of Saint Anne]] * {{see | name=Church of Saint Anne | alt=Kerektemplom | url=http://www.szentanna.extra.hu/ | email=szentanna@extra.hu | address=Esztergom, Rudnay Sándor tér 9 | lat=47.78455 | long=18.74037 | directions=halfway between downtown and train station | phone=+36 33 312 291 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Esztergom Kerektemplom homlokzat.JPG | hours=M-F 08:00-16:00 | price= | content=This neoclassical style Roman Catholic church situated on the southern city of Esztergom. Church was built on the initiative of Sándor Rudnay archbishop, who the building to 'miniature' copy of the Basilica the intended. }} * {{see | name=Ozitseli Hadji mosque | alt=Özicseli Hadzsi Ibrahim-dzsámi | url=http://esztergomidzsami.hu/ | email=info@esztergomidzsami.hu | address=Watertown (Viziváros), Berenyi Zsigmond utca 18 | lat=47.799715 | long=18.734079 | directions=north of the Christian Museum | phone=+36 33 500175 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-20:00 | price= | image=Esztergom.dzsami+Bastya.jpg | wikidata=Q1472518 | content=Built on the ruins of the medieval tower Veprech. In 1239 it was the northest stronghold of the city. The tower was rebuilt several times over the years. The foot gate was walled. The upper part of the tower converted into a mosque with a minaret, in 17th century. Now, the Ozitseli mosque part of a residential house and the Minaret is missing. }} * {{see | name=Orthodox church | alt=Rác Templom | url= | email= | address=Kossuth Lajos utca, 60 | lat=47.78761 | long=18.74095 | directions=Close to Magyar Street, west of Bus Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Built around 1770 by Serbian settlers in Esztergom. }} * {{see | name=Convent Church | alt=Exaltation of the Holy Cross Church, Zárdatemplom - Szent Kereszt felmagasztalása (volt Ferences Templom) | url=http://www.esztergomi-ersekseg.hu/?fm=1&am=4&op=plebaniaview&p_id=35 | email= | address=Pázmány Péter utca 18 | lat=47.79713 | long=18.73608 | directions=Close to Bálint Balassa Museum | phone=+36 33 413878 | tollfree= | fax=+36 33 413878 | hours= | price= | content=Founded by Marianus Franciscans in 1685. Built a stone church in honor of the Holy Cross and a convent between 1726 and 1750. Later the archives of primate and the archbishop's library placed in the convent and church. Then the former Franciscan convent and church receive by the Pauline Sisters order named St. Vince and the seminary is moved to here. }} === Museums === * {{see | name=Christian Museum | alt=Keresztény Múzeum, Érseki Palota | url=http://www.christianmuseum.hu/ | email=keresztenymuzeum@vnet.hu | address=Mindszenty ter 2 | lat=47.79788 | long=18.73467 | directions=Downtown area | phone=+36 33 413880 | tollfree= | fax= | image=EsztergomCatholicMuseum.jpg | hours=Mar-Nov: Tu-W F-Su 10:00-17:00, closed M Th | price=Ft&nbsp;900 | lastedit=2014 | content=The world's third-largest diocesan museum after the Vatican and Munich (Freising). The biggest ecclestial collection in Hungary. The museum is in the '''Primate's Palace''' in the Watertown part of town. The permanent exhibitions include: Hungarian, Austrian and German late Gothic painting and sculpture (15th-16th centuries), Italian Renaissance and Baroque painting (13th-18th centuries), Hungarian, Austrian and German Baroque painting (17th-18th centuries), Flemish painting (15th-16th centuries), Tapestries (15th-20th centuries), collection of Orthodox icons and metalwork (16th-20th centuries), Applied Arts collection: goldsmith works, ivory carvings, clocks, boxes, ceramics, glass, paintings, oriental rugs knotted (12-20th century.) }} * {{see | name=Castle Museum | alt=Magyar Nemzeti Múzeum Esztergomi Vármúzeuma | url=http://www.varmuzeum.ini.hu/ | email= | address=Szent Istvan ter 1 | lat=47.79806 | long=18.7363 | directions=Next to the basilica. | phone=+36 33 415986 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Esztergom Castle Museum - Botticelli.JPG | hours=Nov-Mar 10:00-16:00, Apr-Oct 10:00-18:00, closed Monday. Hungarian guided tours hourly, English, German tours every two hours (tours: approx. 60 minutes) | price=Adult Ft&nbsp;1300 (include guided visit to 12-16th century residential spaces of Royal and Archbishop's Palace, and to the throne room, small-Romanian Palace, the residential tower lookout terrace.), Walk Ticket: Ft&nbsp;500 (only to courtyard, Stonework-Lapidarium and ornamental weapons exhibition). | content=The castle was built on ancient Roman foundations. Exhibits in seven rooms and Castle chapel. Four permanent exhibitions are here: Centuries of Esztergom, Decorative Weapons collection of the Hungarian National Museum, History of the Hungarian coinage, and the Stone Storage (Lapidarium) }} *{{see | name=Bálint Balassa Museum | alt=Balassa Bálint Múzeum | url=http://balassamuzeum.hu/ | email= | address=Mindszenty József tér 5 | lat=47.79692 | long=18.73620 | directions=Downtown area | phone=+36 33 412-185 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Esztergom BBM.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Local and regional history museum. This building was built in Baroque style on medieval bases in Víziváros (Watertown), served as the first town hall of Esztergom county after the Turks had been driven out of the region. Branch units: #1 Pázmány Péter street "old county hall" (Pázmány Péter utcai „régi megyeháza”) temporary exhibition hall, archaeological warehouse, photography and restoration workshop; #2 Babits Memorial House (Babits Mihály Emlékház): Babits Memorial Exhibition, off Siszler st. (47.7905, 18.7508); #3 Pilisszentlélek village:Slovak folk house (szlovák tájház) Hunyadi János Street. 42; #4 Dömös village: Provostal ruins and Árpád-era crypt (Prépostsági romok és Árpád-kori altemplom) }} * {{see | name=Mihály Babits Museum | alt=Babits-villa | url= | email= | address=Babits Mihály u 11 | lat= | long= | directions=by car: Take Siszler u. opening from the main road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787960 | content=House of famous 20th-century poet Mihály Babits. }} * {{see | name=Wine Museum | alt=Bormúzeum, Esztergomi prímási pincerendszer | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=beneath Castle Hill and the Basilica | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Esztergom Prímás pince.JPG | wikidata=Q991836 | content=Wine Museum in the Esztergom primate's cellar system. The neo-classical cellar system is a total 3,700 m². The Dark Gate tunnel divided in two parts. The height of is 11 m. }} ===Other sights=== [[File:Esztergom Panorama 7.jpg|thumb |Castle, Esztergom]] * {{see | name=Monument buildings of Széchenyi square | alt= | url= | email= | address=Széchenyi square | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Ostřihom, pěší zóna.JPG | hours= | price= | content=One of the town's latest sights. It was completely rebuilt in 2006. It's the main square of Esztergom with mostly baroque buildings, fountains and restaurants. No. 1 Vak Bottyán Palace (City Hall) (Vak Bottyán-palota,Városháza), No. 4 Brunner House (Brunner-ház ), No. 6 Niedermann House (Niedermann-ház ), No. 7 Groh or Lucky House (Gróh-, vagy Szerencsés-ház), No. 16 Medieval House (Középkori ház alapfalai), No. 13 House (Lakóház), No. 14 House (Lakóház), No. 19 House (Lakóház), No. 15 Pozzi House (Pozzi-ház), No. 24-26 Kollár House (Kollár-ház), No. 12 Frey House (Frey-ház), No. 21 Savings mansions (Takarékpénztári bérpalota), No. 23 Rudolf House (Rudolf-ház), No. 25 Rochlitz pharmacy (Rochlitz-patika) }} * {{see | name=Cathedral Library | alt=Főszékesegyházi Könyvtár | url= | email= | address=At corner of Pázmány Péter St and Liszt Ferenc St | lat=47.79641 | long=18.73854 | directions=in the southern part of the town, Watertown (Víziváros) district | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Built in 1853 according to plans by József Hildis one of the richest religious libraries of Hungary, accommodating approximately 250,000 books, among which several codices and incunabula can be found, such as the Latin explanation of the ‘Song of Songs’ from the 12th century, the ‘Lövöföldi Corvina’ originating from donations of King Matthias, or the Jordánszky-codex, which includes the Hungarian translation of the Bible from 1516-1519. }} * {{see | name=Bath Hotel | alt=Fürdő Szálló | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.79561 | long=18.74099 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A historical, Classicist building. }} * {{see | name=Town Hall. | alt=Városháza, régi Vak Bottyán Palota | url= | email= | address=Széchényi square, 1 | lat=47.79153 | long=18.73918 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Esztergom-Varoshaza.JPG | content=It used to be the single-floor curia of Vak Bottyán (János Bottyán, Bottyán the Blind), the Kuruc general (1689). The first floor was constructed on its top in 1729. The house burnt down in the 1750s. It was rebuilt in accordance with the plans of a local architect, Antal Hartmann. Upon its façade there is a red marble carving which presents the coat of arms of Esztergom (a palace within the castle walls, protected by towers, with the Árpáds’ shields below.). }} * {{see | name=The equestrian statue of Vak Bottyán | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.77765 | long=18.74551 | directions=on the corner of the Town Hall | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Created by István Martsa, it commemorates the original owner of the Town Hall. }} * {{see | name=Trinity-statue | alt= | url= | email= | address=Széchényi square | lat=47.79173 | long=18.73983 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Esztergom.city.hall.and.holy.trinity.statue.JPG | content=This was created by György Kiss in 1900. }} * {{see | name=Decorated Baroque houses | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bottyán János St | lat= | long= | directions=near the Town Hall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Sándor Earl palace | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.7897 | long=18.73893 | directions=Opposite the Franciscan church | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Baroque. }} * {{see | name=Esztergom Castle | alt=Vár | url= | email= | address=Szent István tér 2 | lat=47.79783 | long=18.7367 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Esztergom Panorama 7.jpg | wikidata=Q635033 | content=On the right bank of the river is rising, on high ground bounded by more than fifty meters high precipitous walls. In the 18th century gradually dismantled protective works. In 1869 was completed the monumental Basilica on the site of the older church. 'Esztergom Castle Theatre' (Esztergomi Várszínház) is Esztergom's only open-air theater. It is the south side of the castle, at the Budai tower. }} * {{see | name=Old Seminary | alt=Ószeminárium, Nagyszeminárium,Szent Adalbert Központ | url=http://www.szentadalbert.hu/index.php | email= | address=Szent István tér 10. | lat=47.8006 | long=18.7372 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Esztergom.Seminary.JPG | hours= | price= | content=The ószeminárium more than 80 m long. Elevation difference between the northern and southern facade of 10 m for this reason there is a two-story substructure. On the south - overlooking the Basilica - façade neoclassic. The north façade was made romantic style. Either side of the entrance are statues of George Szelepcsényi and Nicholas Olah archbishops }} * {{see | name=Bottyan Bridge | alt=Bottyan Híd | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.794 | long=18.73897 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Esztergom.BottyanHid3.JPG | content= }} * {{see | name=Former Synagogue | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Esztergom.Synagogue.jpg | wikidata=Q512936 | content= }} * {{see | name=Courthouse | alt=Bíróság | url= | email= | address=Széchenyi István tér 22 | lat=47.79263 | long=18.74059 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Esztergom.court.JPG | content= }} * {{see | name=Csurgó Spring | alt=Csurgó-forrás | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.77997 | long=18.76596 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Csurgó-kút.jpg | content= }} * {{see | name=Dark gate | alt=Sötétkapu | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.7994 | long=18.7377 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Sotetkapu.JPG | hours= | price= | content=This is a passage in the huge artificial slope of Castle Hill.Built in front of the basilica. The length is approximately 90 m. In one end is the Old Seminary (Ószeminárium), in the other is the Faculty John Vitez of Peter Pázmány Catholic University ( Pázmány Péter Katolikus Egyetem, Vitéz János Kar). }} * {{see | name=Saint István statue | alt=Szent István szobor | url= | email= | address=Szent István tér | lat=47.79988 | long=18.73631 | directions=near the Basilica | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ostřihom, sousoší, svatý Štěpán.JPG | content=At the northern rondella of the Castle. A huge, 12 m high, limestone statue, which depicts the coronation of King Stephen made by Nicholas Melocco in 2001. The two-figure statue of two arched stone ribs with a cross on top of the statue. }} * {{see | name=Plague Madonna statue (Immaculata sculpture) | alt=Pestis-Madonna szobor, Immaculata-szobor | url= | email= | address=Mindszenty József tér | lat=47.79707 | long=18.73532 | directions=Mindszenty tér and Pázmány utca crossing, at the corner of school blocks | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Made ​​in 1740, commemorating the plague in 1739. }} * {{see | name=Old Archbishop's Palace, Baróth House | alt=Régi érseki palota, Baróth-ház | url= | email= | address=Mindszenty József tér 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Roman Catholic parish house | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mindszenty József tér 3 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Roman Catholic Parish Church of Watertown | alt=Vízivárosi római katolikus plébániatemplom | url= | email= | address=Mindszenty József tér 1 | lat=47.79686 | long=18.73518 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Statue of Blessed Eusebius | alt=Boldog Özséb-szobor | url= | email= | address=Szent István tér | lat=47.79988 | long=18.74032 | directions=at the bottom of the ramp leading to Castle Hill, in the northeast corner | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Esztergom - Eusebius.JPG | content=Blessed Eusebius was a canon of Esztergom. In his left hand hold a book. This statue was made in 1780. }} * {{see | name=Canonical row of houses | alt=Kanonoki házsor | url= | email= | address=Szent István tér 4–5-6–7-8–9 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kuklender Maria statue | alt=Kukländer Mária-szobor | url= | email= | address=Szent István tér | lat=47.79863 | long=18.7381 | directions=south of the Basilica | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Erected in 1710 by Thrückl Benigna, wife of the Castle Commander. The one of the oldest Hungarian public monument. The Maria statue hold a crown, on right hand a Jesus with an 'apple of the state', on left hand is a scepter. There could be see the arms of the family Kukländer. }} * {{see | name=St. Mark's Statue | alt=Szent Kőrösi Márk-szobor | url= | email= | address=Szent István tér | lat=47.80068 | long=18.73965 | directions=at south-east end of the Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Around in 1780. His right hand hold a palm leaf. }} * {{see | name=St. László's Statue | alt=Szent László-szobor | url= | email= | address=Szent István tér | lat=47.79994 | long=18.73809 | directions=Of the ramp leading to Castle Hill, north-west side | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=There is a sword in his left hand and his right hand holds an ax and the Holy Crown is on his head.This statue is a Joseph Hebenstreit creation. }} * {{see | name=Statue of Our Lady of Hungary | alt=Magyarok Nagyasszonya szobor | url= | email= | address=Szent István tér | lat=47.79942 | long=18.73742 | directions=Top of Castle Hill, in front of the Basilica | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=bronze, which is erected by a canon of Esztergom (Pór Antal), the occasion of the millennium of conquest. György Kis was the sculptor. This been set up in 1905. The 2m high statue is on a 3.7-meter pedestal. }} * {{see | name=Malom Bastion | alt=Mill Bastion, Malom-bástya | url= | email= | address=Víziváros , Berényi Zsigmond utca 20. | lat=47.8 | long=18.7338 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Eszterom - Mosque.JPG | hours= | price= | content=Technical monument. Built in 1543. Here was a springs inside the Mill tower. Seerved the water supply to the Castle. }} * {{see | name=Kossuth Bridge | alt=Kossuth híd | url= | email= | address=Watertown (Víziváros), Kis-Duna Promenad | lat=47.7962 | long=18.7345 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Esztergom Kossuth híd a szigetről.JPG | hours= | price= | content=northern tip of the Primate island is connected to the. }} * {{see | name=The Primatial Archives | alt=Prímási Levéltár | url=http://www.primarch.hu/ | email= | address=Watertown (Víziváros) | lat=47.7975 | long=18.73472 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=EsztergomCatholicMuseum.jpg | hours= | price= | content=This is the largest religious archives of Hungary. Founding in the early 11th century, The earliest inventory is at the beginning of the 15th century }} * {{see | name=Library Simor, Archiepiscopal Simor Library | alt=Simor Könyvtár, Érseki Simor Könyvtár, Latin: Bibliotheca Joannis Card. Simor | url= | email= | address=Watertown (Víziváros), Berényi Zsigmond utca 2 | lat=47.79745 | long=18.73492 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=By appointment. | price= | image=Esztergom ppalota.JPG | content=A part of the Primate's Palace. The collection include about 70,000 volumes. Mostly about theology, history, science literature, philology, art history and education. }} * {{see | name=Former Priory church | alt=Zárdatemplom | url= | email= | address=Watertown (Víziváros) | lat=47.79687 | long=18.73655 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Mattyasovszky Bastion and Turkish bath | alt=Hévízi tower, Mattyasovszky-bástya és török fürdő | url= | email= | address=Kis-Duna Promenade and the József Attila tér corner | lat=47.7963 | long=18.7375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Esztergom Mattyasovszky-bástya feltárások.JPG | hours= | price= | content=the most southern section of the medieval defense system of Esztergom-Watertown. An archaeological area. As part of the fortification system of Watertown enjoy protected monument }} * {{see | name=Archbishop János Simor residential house | alt=Simor János érsek háza | url= | email= | address=Berényi Zsigmond utca 1 | lat=47.79732 | long=18.73542 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=House of Alexander Rudnay archbishop | alt=Rudnay Sándor esztergomi érsek háza | url= | email= | address=Berényi Zsigmond utca 3 | lat=47.79743 | long=18.73533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=one-story baroque building. }} * {{see | name=Walls of the former waterside protection work | alt=egykori vízi védőmű falai | url= | email= | address=Watertown (Víziváros), Berényi Zsigmond utca 5-11 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here the walls form the sides of houses. }} * {{see | name=House | alt=Reviczky-ház | url= | email= | address=Víziváros, Pázmány Péter u. | lat= | long= | directions= next to Cathedral Library | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The galloping horsemen can be see above the gate, this is the Reviczky family's coat of arms. Storey, L-shaped, baroque, historic building. }} * {{see | name=Former Polusin house | alt=Polusin-ház | url= | email= | address=Pázmány Péter u. 9 | lat=47.79708 | long=18.73702 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=In 1602 this one-story house was the residence of Esztergom Turkish Bey. The building was constructed of two houses. }} * {{see | name=Old school complex | alt=régi iskolakomplexum | url= | email= | address=By Katona István utca – Kis-Duna sétány – Pázmány Péter u. – Mindszenty tér closed area | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Built in the early 20th century. Many educational institutions are housed; the St. Elizabeth School operates here. }} * {{see | name=Former Franciscan friary and the Franciscan Church of the Holy Cross | alt=volt ferences rendház és a Vízivárosi Szent Kereszt ferences templom | url= | email= | address=Pázmány Péter utca 18 | lat=47.79679 | long=18.73648 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This is a story that was made in the 1750s, and today the Friary of Satmar Sisters of Mercy (Szatmári Irgalmas Nővérek rendháza). The church is single towered. }} * {{see | name=Old County Hall | alt=régi Vármegye Háza | url= | email= | address=Watertown (Víziváros), Pázmány Péter u. 13 | lat=47.79692 | long=18.73685 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=One-story, baroque building. Used as a Esztergom county hall between 1714 and 1805. Today here can be found the Balassa Bálint Museum. }} * {{see | name=Turkish House | alt=Török ház | url= | email= | address=Víziváros, Pázmány Péter u. 11 | lat=47.79692 | long=18.73699 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A single-story house next to Old County Hall. This is Baroque in its present form, but a significant part built in the Ottoman period. }} * {{see | name=Copf house | alt=Copf ház | url= | email= | address=Mindszenty Hercegprímás tere 5 | lat=47.79665 | long=18.73534 | directions=opposite Church of the Watertown | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Copf (Louis XVI) style was built around 1780. }} * {{see | name=Bust of Queen Elizabeth | alt=Erzsébet királyné mellszobra | url= | email= | address=Víziváros, Erzsébet Park | lat=47.7987 | long=18.7339 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This is an 80 cm high, terracotta statue, a copy of the György Zala creations (1926). }} * {{see | name=Sobieski memorial | alt=Sobieski-elmékmű | url= | email= | address=Víziváros, Erzsébet Park | lat=47.7988 | long=18.7338 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Maria Valeria Bridge | alt=Mária Valéria Híd | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.79493 | long=18.73178 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Further afield=== [[File:Lencsehegyi táró.JPG|thumb|Lencse Mountain mining memorial site, Kesztölc]] * {{see | name=Kesztölc | alt= | url=http://www.kesztolc.hu/ | email= | address= | lat=47.7026 | long=18.8328 | directions=South 9km of Esztergom. Take a bus to here. One km southeast of Kesztölc, Klastrompuszta district. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Klastrompuszta légifotó.jpg | content=Ruined Monastery of Kesztölc (Hu:Kolostorrom) This remains in the Gothic style dates back to the second half of the 13th century. The hermit Paulines lived here. Press houses of Kesztölc. To '''Do''' exploring the Caves of Pilis Mountain: - Ariadne Cave system, 14km length, the third longest cave in Hungary (Loc: Ariadne-barlangrendszer), Ancient Cave (Loc:Ősi-barlang), Indications Cave (Loc:Indikációs-barlang), Gift Cave (Loc:Ajándék-barlang). }} * {{see | name=Monastery ruins of Kesztölc | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kesztölc village | lat=47.7022 | long=18.833 | directions=via Dorog, or from Pilisszentlélek west 1 km on the road Esztergom-Pilisszentkereszt-Pomáz Kesztölc east on Klastrom street to Klastrompuszta district | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=These ruins date to the second half of the 13th century, made in the Gothic style. }} ==Do== [[File:Esztergom Satorkopusztai gipszoszlopok.jpg|thumb|Sátorkőpuszta Cave]] *{{do | name=El Greco Gallery | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(See listing under Sleep.) Holds periodic exhibitions of contemporary arts. }} * {{do | name=Thai massage | alt= | url=https://www.vadregeny.hu/en/index.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=In the '''Vadregény Pension and Holidaypark''' | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} *{{do | name=Aquasziget Spa | url= | email= | address=Táncsics Mihály u. 5 | lat=47.79474 | long=18.73723 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Wellness spa. }} * {{do | name=Loggia Cave | alt=Kis Loggia-barlang | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.75996 | long=18.79452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kis Loggia-barlang.jpg | content= }} * {{do | name=Sátorkőpuszta Cave | alt=Sátorkőpusztai-barlang | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.74183 | long=18.76209 | directions=near Esztergom-Kertváros | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Esztergom Satorkopusztai gipszoszlopok.jpg | content= }} * {{do | image=Pilis hg.JPG | name=Pilis Mountains |alt=Pilis hegység |url= | lat=47.7319| long=18.9185 | directions=part of the Transdanubian Mountains; on the right bank of the Danube, between Budapest and Esztergom | content=offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking. Peaks above 600m a.s.l.s: Pilis peak (756m, the highest peak of the Transdanubian Mountains), Nagy Bodzás Hill (717m), Nagy Szoplák (710 m), Kis Szoplák (686m), Vaskapu Mount (651m - is not the same Iron Gate hill of Esztergom). The Oszoly Peak is a famous rock climbing training ground. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Tesco | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mátyás király utca 30 | lat=47.77934 | long=18.74869 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=05:00-22:00 (except national holidays) | price= | content= }} *{{buy | name=Aldi | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dobogókői út | lat=47.77479 | long=18.75588 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=07:00-20:00 | price= | content=German supermarket chain. }} *{{buy | name=Park Center | alt= | url=https://zonepark.hu/uzletek/esztergom | email= | address=Dobogókői út | lat=47.7755 | long=18.75573 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Strip mall. }} *{{buy | name=Spar | alt=former Plus | url= | email= | address=Esztergom-Kertváros, Damjanich utca | lat=47.74809 | long=18.73098 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Supermarket. }} *{{buy | name=Lidl | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bánomi út | lat=47.80307 | long=18.75299 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Supermarket. }} *{{buy | name=Lidl | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dobogókői út 39 | lat=47.77379 | long=18.75411 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Supermarket. }} *{{buy | name=Praktiker | alt= | url=https://www.praktiker.hu/ | email= | address=Dobogókői út | lat=47.77387 | long=18.75267 | directions=Across Park Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Home improvement and do-it-yourself goods. }} ==Eat== * Anonymous restaurant, next to the Primate Palace *{{eat | name=Caffe Grante Restaurant & Cafe | alt= | url=https://granteetterem.hu/ | email= | address=Dorogi út 5-7 | lat=47.753633 | long=18.732567 | directions= | phone=+36 33 512-465 | tollfree= | hours=Restaurant M-Sa 12:00-20:00, Su closed. Cafe: Open M-Sa 08:00-22:00, Su 08:00-16:00 | price= | content=The mediterranean colors of the walls and the friendly staff provide a warm and snug environment. The terrace is open from March until October. Free parking in the large parking area is available in the whole year.- The restaurant is open for corporate parties and meetings up to 80 people. }} * {{eat | name=Múzeum Confectionery | alt=Múzeum Cukrászda | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.79652 | long=18.73952 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Esztergom - 2014.03.19 (149).JPG | content= }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=Csülök csárda | alt= | url=http://www.csulokcsarda.hu/ | email=csulokcsarda@invitel.hu | address=H-2500 Esztergom, Batthyány u. 9 | lat=47.797472 | long=18.739944 | directions= | phone=+36 33 412-420 | tollfree= | hours=12:00 - 22:00 | price= | lastedit=2019-01-20 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Cafe El Greco | alt= | url=http://www.elgrecocafe.hu | email= | address= 2500 Esztergom, Pázmány Péter utca 15 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In the cosy, historical Viziváros. Here you can also visit periodic exhibitions of contemporary arts in the El Greco Gallery. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Esztergom Panorama 1.jpg|thumb|View from tower of Esztergom Basilica, Esztergom Panorama]] * {{sleep | name=Guest House El Greco | alt= | url=https://elgrecocafe.hu/menu_01ee.html | email=info@elgrecocafe.hu | address=Pázmány Péter utca 15 | lat=47.797 | long=18.7365 | directions= | phone=+36 30 9140595 | tollfree= | checkin=13:00-19:00 | checkout=10:00 | price= | content=In the beautiful historical quarter of Esztergom, the Viziváros (Watertown), neighboring the world famous Christian Museum, and also just a close walk away from the newly built Aquasziget Thermal and Wellness Spa. }} * {{sleep | name=Pension Decsi | alt= | url=https://www.decsipanzio.hu/ | email= | address= | lat=47.79146 | long=18.74822 | directions=a five-minute walk from the center | phone=+36 33 400 811 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Esztergom | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.79563 | long=18.73471 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=At the foot of the Kossuth-bridge on Primate-island. }} * {{sleep | name=Vadregény Pension and Holiday Park | alt= | url=http://vadregeny.hu/en/index.html | email= | address= | lat=47.81281 | long=18.8098 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=The scenic landscape of the Danube Band and the Búbánat valley near the city of Esztergom is the location of Vadregény Pension and Holiday Park. Those wishing to hike and recreate may spend their free time pleasantly on crystal air in the picturesque surroundings of the Duna-Ipoly National Park. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bellevue | alt= | url=https://www.bellevuehotel.hu/en/ | email= | address=Őrtorony u 49 | lat=47.81401 | long=18.80657 | directions=at Búbánat Valley, just outside town | phone=+36 33 510-810, +36 33 510-818 (booking), +36 33 510-815 (restaurant) | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ==Connect== As of Sept 2021, Esztergom has 4G from Telecom, Telenor and Vodafone, but no signal from DiGi. 5G has not reached this area. ==Go next== * [[Nagymaros]] – town 24 km east * [[Nyergesújfalu]] – town 16 km west * [[Pilisvörösvár]] – town 29 km southeast * [[Pomáz]] – town 31 km southeast * [[Štúrovo]] (''Párkány'') – town on the Slovakian bank of the Danube, accessible on foot or by car via the Maria Valeria Bridge. Pop in for the best views of the basilica, as well as to tick off another European country from your bucket list. * [[Szob]] – town 14 km northeast * [[Visegrád]] – town 24 km east {{routebox| placename=Esztergom | image1=EV 6 Atlantic Ocean to Black Sea.svg | imagesize1=30 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Bratislava]] | minorl1=[[Komárno]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Belgrade]] | minorr1=[[Budapest]] | link1=[[ EuroVelo cycling routes]] | caption1= }} {{usablecity}} {{geo|47.7856|18.7403}} {{IsPartOf|Danube Bend}} 1iytlb890gdtm8c363fgay5x0h3gfbe 0 11264 5090985 5070560 2025-07-10T17:47:54Z Coleisforeditor 2327348 /* Coaches */ 5090985 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Exeter banner Cathedral Church of Saint Peter.jpg|disambig=yes|caption=Cathedral Church of Saint Peter}} [[Image:Exeter Cathedral.jpg|thumb|350px|Exeter Cathedral]] '''Exeter''' is the county town of [[Devon]] and historically the administrative capital of the south-west peninsula. A historic mid-sized cathedral city with a good blend of arts, education, retail and history. ==Understand== In AD 50 a [[Roman Empire|Roman]] military base was built at a strategic crossing point on the banks of the river Exe, seven years after the Roman invasion of Britain. The settlement quickly gained in importance as the administrative centre for the Dumnonii tribe once the legionnaires left. Indeed, its Roman name, Isca Dumnomiorum, means "town of the Dumnonii (Devonian) tribe". Parts of the original Roman walls can still be seen today. The city continued to hold regional significance through the turbulent Dark Ages, being twice captured by the invading Vikings. Following the Norman Conquest, the inhabitants rebelled against William the Conqueror, who laid siege and subsequently built Rougemount Castle to ensure future compliance. During the renaissance period it developed into an economically powerful city through the wool industry, and a period of rapid growth commenced. Later, at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, industry was driven by water power from the River Exe. It remained a significant seaport (courtesy of its Ship Canal) until the age of steam, but there was no major industrialisation in the later 19th century. The city was badly damaged in an incendiary bombing raid on the High Street and surrounding areas in 1942, and although post-war reconstruction has been limited, a number of interesting buildings remain. Now Exeter is the commercial and service centre for a largely agricultural hinterland, with a population of around 110,000. Good facilities for tourists exist, but tourism does not dominate; regularly voted among the top 3 cities in the UK for quality of life. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Exeter Airport | alt={{IATA|EXT}} | url=http://www.exeter-airport.co.uk/ | email= | address=Clyst Honiton EX5 2BD | lat=50.734444 | long=-3.413889 | directions=5 miles east of town off A30 | phone=+44 1392 367433 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Exeter Airport | image=ExeterAirportUK.jpg | wikidata=Q8999 | lastedit=2018-05-26 | content= }} [https://www.aurigny.com/ Aurigny], the flag carrier of Guernsey, flies from Guernesey to Exeter. Blue Islands serves the Exeter-Jersey route. Loganair, a Scottish regional airline, operates from [[Edinburgh]], [[Glasgow]], and [[Newcastle upon Tyne]]. Ryanair and TUI Airways operate flights from the Mediterranean. [https://www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk/skybus/ Skybus] flies from St Mary's on the Isles of Scilly ({{IATA|ISC}}) March-October, Monday to Saturday. The bus to the airport is Stagecoach Bus 56 between Exeter St David's railway station and Exmouth. Buses run hourly till about 10PM and take 20 min, single fare £3. A taxi costs £10-20. ===By train=== Exeter is on the [[London Paddington]] to [[Penzance]] line, with a train roughly every hour from Paddington to Exeter through most of the day. Alternatively, all Exeter stations (except St James's Park) are on the [https://greatscenicrailways.co.uk/lines/riviera-line/ Riviera Line] serving Starcross, Dawlish, [[Teignmouth]], [[Newton Abbot]], Torre, [[Torquay]] and [[Paignton]]. Trains run daily every two hours to Exeter from [[Okehampton]], taking 45 min via Crediton. This "Dartmoor Line" closed to passenger services in 1972, remaining in use for freight and as a summer heritage railway, but in Nov 2021 it re-opened for regular trains. It's expected the service will increase to hourly early in 2022. * {{go | name=Exeter St. Davids station | alt= | url=http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/EXD.aspx | email= | address=Bonhay Rd, EX4 4NT | lat=50.7296 | long=-3.54354 | directions=a 15-minute walk or bus journey to the city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3244559 | content=The main train station. The journey time from London Paddington to Exeter St. Davids is 2-3 hours, with the average being around 2 hours 30 minutes. National services are run to [[Bristol]], [[South Wales]], [[Birmingham (England)|Birmingham]], the north of England and Scotland; service to Bristol is approximately hourly. Local trains run to [[Barnstaple]], [[Exmouth (England)|Exmouth]], and along the main lines. }} ====Local and regional trains==== Several smaller stations for local and regional trains exist: * {{go | name=Exeter Central station | alt= | url=http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/EXC.aspx | email= | address= | lat=50.7264 | long=-3.533 | directions=5-minute walk into the city centre along Queen Street | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3189858 | content=There is a slower service from [[London Waterloo]] via [[Salisbury (England)|Salisbury]] about every 2 hours, which can take up to 4 hours. This service calls at Central and St David's. }} * {{go | name=Exeter St Thomas | alt= | url=http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/EXT.aspx | email= | address= | lat=50.71713 | long=-3.53858 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1928272 | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=On the Riveria Line from Exeter to Torquay via Marsh Barton. }} * {{go | name=Exeter St James's Park | alt= | url=http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/SJP.asp | email= | address= | lat=50.73097 | long=-3.52259 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1102571 | lastedit=2023-12-29 | content=Also on the Riveria Line from Exeter to Torquay via Marsh Barton. }} ===By bus=== ====Park & Ride==== Exeter has 3 [https://www.visitexeter.com/info-maps/travel-information/park-and-ride park & ride] bus stations: {{marker|type=around|name=Honiton Road|lat=50.7246882|long=-3.4693756}}, {{marker|type=around|name=Sowton|lat=50.7155273|long=-3.4703088}} and {{marker|type=around|name=Matford|lat=50.6947972|long=-3.520691}}. ====Coaches==== {{go | name=Exeter Bus Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.72601 | long=-3.52409 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Exeter Bus Station | wikidata=Q107630141 | image=Exeter bus station (2021-09-12) 07.jpg | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Located just off Paris Street, a few minutes walk to High Street and the cathedral green. Almost all bus services run to here, including long distance coaches. Its closest train stations are Exeter Central and St James Park, with St James Park only operating regional services. }} [https://www.nationalexpress.com/ National Express] buses run 3-4 times a day from [[London Victoria]] (NX406, 503 and 504) via [[Heathrow Airport]] and [[Reading (England)|Reading]], taking five hours to Exeter, and continuing to [[Bodmin]], [[Newquay]] and Penzance. Redwood Travel (on behalf of Megabus) runs the same route from Victoria daily. National Express buses run five times a day from Birmingham via Bristol to Exeter, taking four hours. These all originate from further north: * NX336 from [[Edinburgh]] via [[Glasgow]], [[Preston]] and [[Manchester]] * NX338 from [[Leicester]] * NX324 from [[Sheffield]] via [[Derby]] * NX530 from [[Newcastle upon Tyne]] via [[Middlesbrough]], [[York]] and [[Leeds]] * NX532 from [[Blackpool]] via Preston. They continue from Exeter to Paignton, Plymouth, Newquay and Penzance. ==Get around== {{Mapframe |50.720 |-3.535 |height=500 |width=500 |zoom=13}}{{mapshape}}{{mapshapes|Q113624900}} === By bus === There is an extensive network of buses across the city. Most buses within the city are operated by Stagecoach, who also operate buses to most regional destinations. Some regional routes are operated by small independent operators. === By rail === [[File:Devon Metro Network Map.png|center|thumb]] It can be more cost-effective to take the train instead of buses, particularly for long distances around the city and the larger area. Great Western Railway operates most of the network, with South Western Railway operating trains to the eastern suburbs and further. === On foot === The central area of the city is fairly small, so it is easy to get around on foot. The city can be traversed east-to-west in around two hours if it is required. === By taxi === [[File:Exeter taxi.jpg|thumb|Taxi at the Exeter high street taxi stand]] Taxi stands are located on the north-eastern intersection of the High Street and by Exeter St Davids station. Taxis can be flagged down if seen. They are in a distinctive red with the city coat of arms, with an illuminated yellow "TAXI" sign and have yellow license plates on the rear of the vehicle. ==== Private hire ==== There are various private hire taxi companies in the city, with the largest one being [https://www.appletaxisexeter.co.uk/ '''Apple Taxis''']. Registered private hire taxis will display a green plate next to their rear license plate, however cannot be flagged down and do not stop at taxi stands. ==== Uber ==== [https://www.uber.com/global/en/r/cities/exeter-eng-gb/ '''Uber'''] ride-sharing is available in the city. Taxis cannot be booked by Uber as of May 2025. === By car === There is an extensive road network covering the city. You cannot drive onto the high street, and must park in a neighbouring car park. Traffic can be slow. === By bicycle === Cycle paths of varying quality run through the city. The most scenic route runs along the canal towpath. ==See== [[File:Exeter (Devon, UK), Clock Tower -- 2013 -- 1395.jpg|thumb|Exeter Clock Tower]] *'''City walls''' - some date to Roman times and there are easily-accessible remnants next to Rougemont Gardens. * {{see | name=Exeter Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk/ | email= | address=Exeter, EX1 1HS | lat=50.722547 | long=-3.529959 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 255573 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Adult £8.50, senior/student £6, child free | wikipedia=Exeter Cathedral | image=Exeter-28Ap11-wyrdlight.jpg | wikidata=Q1131208 | content=And the Cathedral Green; Exeter's top attraction and a very beautiful Gothic building. The cathedral lays claim to having the longest unbroken stone roof beam of any building in the world. The Cathedral Green opposite can be a good place to chill out on in the summer, ideal for an inexpensive picnic. }} * {{see | name=Guildhall | alt= | url=https://exeter.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/our-attractions/exeter-guildhall/ | email= | address=High St, Exeter, EX4 3EB | lat=50.723402 | long=-3.531858 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Exeter Guildhall | image=Exeter - High Street, Guildhall.jpg | wikidata=Q5420117 | content=Claimed to be the oldest municipal building in England still serving its original purpose. }} *'''Historic quayside''' including the 17th-century {{marker|type=see|name=Custom House|url=https://exeter.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/our-attractions/custom-house-visitor-centre/|lat=50.718868|long=-3.531644}}, which has been renovated as a headquarters for the city's archaeological service. *'''Medieval churches''' in the city centre: ** {{see | name=St Martin's | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.7231 | long=-3.53111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St Martin's Church, Exeter | image=St Martin's Church, Exeter-2.jpg | wikidata=Q7594186 | lastedit=2019-01-01 | content= }} ** {{see | name=St Mary Arches | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.7223 | long=-3.53383 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St Mary Arches Church, Exeter | image=St Mary Arches Church, Exeter.jpg | wikidata=Q7594558 | lastedit=2019-01-01 | content= }} ** {{see | name=St Mary Steps | alt= | url=http://www.heavitreeparish.co.uk/churches/st-marys-steps/ | email= | address= | lat=50.71990 | long=-3.53473 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-01-01 | content= }} ** {{see | name=St Olave's | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.7217 | long=-3.5339 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St Olave's Church, Exeter | image=St Olave's Church, Exeter - geograph.org.uk - 726358.jpg | wikidata=Q7594989 | lastedit=2019-01-01 | content= }} ** {{see | name=St Petrock's | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.7227 | long=-3.53215 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St Petrock's Church, Exeter | image=St Petrock's church, Exeter - geograph.org.uk - 167387.jpg | wikidata=Q7595386 | lastedit=2019-01-01 | content= }} ** {{see | name=St Stephen's | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.724 | long=-3.5298 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St Stephen's Church, Exeter | image=St. Stephen's church - geograph.org.uk - 1138325.jpg | wikidata=Q7595477 | lastedit=2019-01-01 | content= }} * {{see | name=Parliament Street | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.723056 | long=-3.532222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Parliament Street, Exeter | image=Parliament Street, Exeter.jpg | wikidata=Q950663 | lastedit=2016-10-29 | content=The world's second most narrow street at 1.22 metres (4 ft) wide. }} * {{see | name=Rougemont Castle | alt=Exeter Castle | url=http://www.exetercastle.co.uk/ | email= | address=Castle St, EX4 3PU | lat=50.72567 | long=-3.53006 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 420703 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Rougemont Castle | image=Rougemont Castle gatehouse, 2010 (cropped).jpg | wikidata=Q7370785 | lastedit=2016-10-29 | content=The grounds and the remaining Norman structures are open to the public, but the central part of the castle has been retired from service as an Assize Court. It is now a wedding and events venue with holiday lets. }} * {{see | name=Royal Albert Memorial Museum | alt=RAMM | url=http://www.rammuseum.org.uk/ | email= | address=Queen St EX4 3RX | lat=50.725088 | long=-3.532279 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 265858 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-17:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=Royal Albert Memorial Museum | image=Royal albert memorial museum exeter.jpg | wikidata=Q7373646 | lastedit=2018-06-13 | content=A museum and art gallery. }} * {{see | name=St Nicholas Priory | alt= | url=https://devonmuseums.net | email= | address=Mint Lane EX4 3BL | lat=50.7218 | long=-3.535 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su 13:00-16:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=St Nicholas' Priory, Exeter | image=St Nicholas Priory.jpg | wikidata=Q7594961 | lastedit=2018-06-13 | content=The 900-year-old guest wing of a former Benedictine Priory, furnished as the 1602 home of a prosperous family. }} * {{see | name=Underground passages | alt= | url=https://www.visitsouthdevon.co.uk/things-to-do/exeters-underground-passages-p134013 | email= | address=2 Paris St, EX1 1GA | lat=50.725145 | long=-3.526863 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 665887 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=It is open all year, £4.90 adults, £3.40 children | lastedit=2017-10-20 | content=One-hour tours are easily arranged of the city's unique medieval (and now out of use) water system. Not for the claustrophobic! The entrance can be found next to the Princesshay shopping development. }} * {{see | name=University of Exeter | alt= | url=https://www.exeter.ac.uk/visit/campuses/gardens/visitingus/sculpturewalk/ | email= | address= | lat=50.7365 | long=-3.53442 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=University of Exeter | image=University of Exeter Clock tower.jpg | wikidata=Q1414861 | lastedit=2017-10-20 | content=Parkland campuses and sculpture walk. }} * {{see | name=Killerton | alt= | url=https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton/ | email=killerton@nationaltrust.org.uk | address=Broadclyst, EX5 3LE | lat=50.792 | long=-3.4565 | directions=8 miles north of Exeter | phone=+44 1392 881345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Killerton | image=Killerton House in Autumn - geograph.org.uk - 1477454.jpg | wikidata=Q6988604 | content= }} * {{see | name=Met Office open days | alt= | url=https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/about-us/contact/open-days | email= | address=Fitzroy Rd, EX1 3PB | lat=50.727255 | long=-3.474373 | directions=in the Exeter Business Park near Honiton Road park & ride | phone=+44 370 900 0100 (inside the UK), +44 1392 885680 (outside the UK) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Met Office | wikidata=Q1851405 | lastedit=2018-05-01 | content=The Met Office hosts occasional public tours via open days for visitors aged 10 and over. Part of the tour includes the Met Office's National Meteorological Library which has a small museum dedicated to the Met Office's history including artifices such as Robert Fitzroy's equipment. [[File:High-contrast-camera-photo-2-red.svg|17px]] Photography and recording is strictly prohibited. }} ==Do== [[File:Exeter Cathedral Lady Chapel, Exeter, UK - Diliff.jpg|thumb|The Lady Chapel of Exeter Cathedral]] * '''What's on?''' Read the Express and Echo, published weekly, or The Exeter Flying Post. *Take a free guided tour with the City's volunteer Redcoat guides - tours leave the Cathedral Green or the Quay and last 1–2 hours * {{do | name=Crealy Great Adventure Park | alt= | url=https://www.crealy.co.uk | email= | address=Sidmouth Rd, EX5 1DR | lat=50.705554 | long=-3.416076 | directions=8 miles E of Exeter. From M5 jcn 30 follow A3052; bus 52A or 52B from main bus station | phone=+44 1395 233200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Jun-Aug daily 10AM-5PM, from Sept outdoor rides only Sa Su | price=Adult £21, others by height | wikipedia=Crealy Great Adventure Parks | wikidata=Q5183338 | lastedit=2018-06-13 | content=Adventure park mainly aimed at younger children, with indoor and outdoor slides and rides. Accommodation includes cabin lodges, glamping and camping. }} *The canal and river offers opportunities for watersports and cycling. Bikes and canoes can be hired from [http://www.sadpad.com/ Saddles and Paddles], No. 4 Kings Wharf, The Quay, EX4 2AN, who offer good advice and the local bike route maps. A series of [https://www.traveldevon.info/cycle/cycle-routes/ cycle paths] exist on either side of the river. Along the west river bank, the village of [[Starcross]] and the beach of [[Dawlish|Dawlish Warren]] are easily reached, and [[Dawlish]], [[Teignmouth]] and the south west coastpath can also be reached via this route. On the east bank, the gastronomic town of [[Topsham]], [[Lympstone]] village, and seaside resort town [[Exmouth (England)|Exmouth]] can be reached. * {{do | name=Odeon | alt= | url=http://www.odeon.co.uk/cinemas/exeter/90/ | email= | address=Sidwell St, EX4 6PL | lat=50.72859 | long=-3.522185 | directions=near the Duke of York pub | phone=+44 333 014 4501 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-10-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Picture House | alt= | url=https://www.picturehouses.com/cinema/Exeter_Picturehouse | email= | address=Bartholomew St, EX4 3AJ | lat=50.720755 | long=-3.5365 | directions=near The World Food shop | phone=+44 871 902 5730 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-10-18 | content=Has a cafe-bar and free Wi-Fi. }} * {{do | name=Vue | alt= | url=https://www.myvue.com/cinema/exeter/whats-on | email= | address=Summerland St, EX1 2DD | lat=50.725746 | long=-3.522523 | directions=near the bus station | phone=+44 345 308 4620 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-10-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Northcott Theatre | alt= | url=https://exeternorthcott.co.uk/ | email= | address=Stocker Rd, EX4 4QB | lat=50.735818 | long=-3.535301 | directions=located on the University of Exeter's Streatham campus | phone=+44 1392 726363 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Northcott Theatre | wikidata=Q7057778 | lastedit=2017-10-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Barnfield Theatre | alt= | url=http://www.barnfieldtheatre.org.uk/ | email= | address=Barnfield Rd, EX1 1SN | lat=50.722944 | long=-3.525778 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 270891 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Barnfield Theatre | wikidata=Q4861817 | lastedit=2017-10-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Cygnet Theatre | alt=New Theatre | url=https://cygnettheatre.co.uk/ | email= | address=Friars Gate, EX2 4AZ | lat=50.719166 | long=-3.529558 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 277189 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cygnet Training Theatre | wikidata=Q5199199 | lastedit=2017-10-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Bikeshed Theatre | alt= | url=https://www.bikeshedtheatre.co.uk/ | email= | address=Fore St, EX4 3AT | lat=50.721573 | long=-3.533987 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 434169 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-10-18 | content=Has a cocktail bar. }} * {{do | name=Exeter City FC | alt= | url=https://www.exetercityfc.co.uk/ | email= | address=St James Park EX4 6PX | lat=50.7307 | long=-3.5208 | directions=off B3212, next to St James Park railway station | phone=+44 1392 411243 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Exeter City F.C. | wikidata=Q48939 | lastedit=2022-05-08 | content=City were promoted in 2022 and now play in League One, the third tier. The 8830-seat St James' Park stadium is a 10-minute walk northeast from the city centre. }} * {{do | name=Exeter Chiefs Rugby Union Club | alt= | url=https://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/ | email= | address=Sandy Park Stadium, Sandy Park Way, EX2 7NN | lat=50.709411 | long=-3.4685 | directions=3 miles east of city at jcn 30 of M5 with A379 | phone=+44 1392 890890 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Exeter Chiefs | wikidata=Q675305 | lastedit=2018-06-13 | content=Exeter Chiefs play in the English Premiership, the top tier of English Rugby Union. Sandy Park, opened in 2006, has a capacity of 12,800. There are plans to enlarge this beyond 20,000 to meet the stadium requirements for later stages of European rugby tournaments. }} * '''[https://www.rugbyworldcup.com/2025/en Women's Rugby Union World Cup]''' is held 22 Aug - 27 Sept 2025, with games at Sandy Park and in seven other English cities. * {{do | name=Exeter Racecourse | alt=Haldon racecourse | url=http://exeter.thejockeyclub.co.uk/ | email= | address=EX6 7XS | lat=50.641111 | long=-3.558056 | directions=8 miles south of city, off A38 | phone=+44 1392 832599 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Exeter Racecourse | wikidata=Q5420128 | lastedit=2018-06-13 | content=This is a National Hunt ie jumps racecourse, with regular meetings during the winter season. Perched on top of the Haldon hills, it's the highest racecourse in the UK, at 260 m. There's a caravan & motor-home park within the course. }} ==Learn== * '''[http://www.ex.ac.uk/ University of Exeter]''' * '''[http://www.exe-coll.ac.uk/ Exeter College]''' ==Work== *The largest employers are the Devon County Council, the University of Exeter, and the Met Office. *Employment agencies cluster around the west end of the High Street. *The Job Centre is at Clarendon House, Western Way *Exeter Council for Voluntary Service (CVS) is at Wat Tyler House in King William Street ==Buy== *The High Street is mostly taken up by national clothing and electronics chains. *Larger concentrations of independent shops can be found in the streets just off the High Street. Fore Street has a number of good outdoor goods shops. Gandy Street and the Cathedral Green offer a similarly eclectic range of retailers. Magdalen Road, a few minutes walk from the city centre, offers award-winning butchers and fishmongers as well as handmade jewellery and gift shops. *A major redevelopment of Princesshay and surrounding streets has brought many new or redeveloped shops and restaurants including an Apple store. * {{buy | name=Princesshay | alt= | url=http://princesshay.com | email= | address=9 Catherine St, EX1 1QA | lat=50.7245 | long=-3.52775 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Princesshay | image=Cathedral from Princesshay.JPG | wikidata=Q7244916 | lastedit=2017-10-27 | content= }} *Mall-type shopping developments in the city include the Guildhall and Harlequins. * {{buy | name=Guildhall Shopping Centre | alt= | url=https://guildhallshoppingexeter.co.uk/ | email= | address=40 High St, EX4 3HP | lat=50.72343 | long=-3.532558 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 201910 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 8AM-7PM; Su 10AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2017-10-18 | content= }} ==Eat== As well as the selection listed here, there are the national chains eg ASK and Pizza Express on Cathedral Green, and Zizzi's in Gandy Street. The suburb of [[Topsham]], 5 km south on the river estuary, also has a good range of restaurants. ===Budget=== *{{eat | name=The Plant | alt= | url= | email= | address=1 Cathedral Yard, EX1 1HJ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1392 428144 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 8:30AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Café with a good choice of vegetarian and other snacks and light meals. }} *{{eat | name=Dinosaur Café | alt=Mediterranean food | url= | email= | address=5 New North Rd, EX4 4HH | lat=50.72763| long= -3.53560 | directions=At the clock end of Queen Street | phone=+44 1392 490951 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-9PM | price=£15 for three courses without alcohol | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Small family-owned Turkish and English cafe. All sorts of meze dishes, which are truly delicious. Large portions and inexpensive compared to similar restaurants. Also a bookshop, and something of a legend for University folk. }} *{{eat | name=Gandhi | alt= | url=http://www.gandhiexeter.co.uk | email= | address=7/8 New North Road EX4 4HH | lat= | long= | directions=At roundabout head of Queen St | phone=+44 1392 272119 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon-2PM & 6-11:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Traditional Brit Indian, inexpensive. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{eat | name=Al-Farid | alt= | url=http://www.alfaridrestaurant.co.uk | email= | address=3 Cathedral Yard EX1 1HJ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1392 494444 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon-11:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Moroccan. }} *{{eat | name=Hour Glass | alt= | url=http://www.hourglassexeter.co.uk | email= | address=21 Melbourne Street EX2 4AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1392 258722 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-F noon-2:30PM & 5PM-11PM; Sa noon-midnight; Su noon-10:30PM; M 5-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Wood-panelled pub with real ale & traditional fare. }} *{{eat | name=The Fat Pig | alt= | url=http://www.fatpig-exeter.co.uk | email= | address=2 John St, EX1 1BL | lat=50.72084 | long=-3.53402 | directions=turn off Fore St by Taunton Leisure | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 5-11PM, Sa noon-midnight, Su noon-5PM | price= | wikidata=Q70628248 | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Central yet rustic atmosphere, they even rear their own pigs. }} *{{eat | name=On The Water Front | alt= | url=http://www.waterfrontexeter.co.uk | email= | address=Southern Warehouse, 4-9 The Quay, EX2 4AP | lat=50.71834 | long=-3.53017 | directions=On riverside just S of centre | phone=+44 1392 210590 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Italian, in 19th-century brick warehouse, the pizzas are huge. }} ===Splurge=== *{{eat | name=Olive Tree | alt= | url=http://www.queenscourt-hotel.co.uk | email= | address=in Queen's Court Hotel, Bystock Terr, EX4 4HY | lat=50.72701 | long=-3.53675 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 272709 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 6:30-9PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Modern British cuisine. }} *{{eat | name=St Olave's Court | alt= | url= | email= | address=in St Olave's Hotel, Mary Arches Street EX4 3AZ | lat=50.72234 | long=-3.53511 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 217736, | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Tapas restaurant. }} *{{eat | name=@Angela's | alt= | url=http://www.angelasrestaurant.co.uk | email= | address=38 New Bridge Street EX4 3AH | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1392 499038 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-Sa 6-9:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Modern British & French cuisine, locally sourced. }} *{{eat | name=The Conservatory | alt= | url=http://www.theconservatoryrestaurant.co.uk/ | email= | address=18 North Street EX4 3QS | lat=50.72314 | long=-3.53379 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 273858 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 12:30-2PM & 5:30-9PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Good food, the light lunch and early bird dinner are recommended. }} == Drink == * {{drink | name=The Angel | alt= | url=http://www.theangelbar.co.uk/ | email= | address=32 Queen St, EX4 3SR | lat=50.725881 | long=-3.533772 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 432611 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Angel is a warm hearted bar in the centre of Exeter. It is independent and promotes great quality in everything: staff, drinks and music. With a relaxed atmosphere during the day, it then turns into a pumping party bar at night. }} * {{drink | name=The Black Horse | alt= | url=https://www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk/pubs/devon/black-horse/ | email= | address=Longbrook St, Exeter EX4 6AB | lat=50.72675 | long=-3.52719 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 257974 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2022-01-10 | content=Green King }} * {{drink | name=The Bowling Green | alt= | url=http://bowlinggreenexeter.co.uk/ | email= | address=29-30 Blackboy Rd, EX4 6ST | lat=50.72965 | long=-3.51762 | directions=Opposite Belmont Park | phone=+44 1392 490300 | tollfree= | hours=noon-11PM | price= | wikidata=Q70628227 | lastedit=2022-01-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Cavern | alt= | url=http://exetercavern.com/ | email= | address=83-84 Queen St, EX4 3RP | lat=50.724639 | long=-3.531682 | directions=between Boston Tea Party and Tony & Guy | phone=+44 1392 495370 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-2AM | price=varies | content=Live music venue with bands most evenings. Be warned that the toilets are not for the faint-hearted. However, it is a nursery for new talent with bands like Muse, Coldplay and Radiohead playing early in their careers. }} * {{drink | name=Cuckoo Taproom and Bottleshop | alt= | url= | email= | address=25 Paris St, EX1 2JB | lat=50.72511 | long=-3.52576 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 404111 | tollfree= | hours=noon-11PM | price= | lastedit=2022-01-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Double Locks | alt= | url=http://www.doublelocks.co.uk/ | email= | address=Canal Banks, EX2 6LT | lat=50.699978 | long=-3.512781 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 256947 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Double Locks pub sits in an idyllic location on the edge of Exeter Canal, 20 minutes walk from the quayside. Occasional live music, child-friendly, a solid selection of real ales and a reasonable menu. On sunny weekends the pub attracts many punters, and the May Day bank-holiday beer festival can get very busy, with long queues. }} * {{drink | name=Heart Of Oak | alt= | url=http://www.heartofoakexeter.co.uk/ | email=info@heartofoak.pub | address=34 Main Rd, Pinhoe, EX4 8HS | lat=50.73911 | long=-3.47077 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 467329 | tollfree= | hours=noon-11PM | price= | lastedit=2022-01-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Henry's Bar | alt= | url=https://henrysexeter.co.uk/ | email= | address=Mount Pleasant Rd, Exeter EX4 7AB | lat=50.73020 | long=-3.51420 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 202740 | tollfree= | hours=4PM-11PM | price=3 drinking tokens for £11 (1 token per drink) | wikidata=Q70628511 | lastedit=2022-01-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Imperial | alt= | url=https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/pubs/all-pubs/england/devon/the-imperial-exeter | email= | address=New North Rd, EX4 4AH | lat=50.730357 | long=-3.539845 | directions=10 minutes walk from the city centre | phone=+44 1392 434050 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A decently priced J D Wetherspoons pub. }} * {{drink | name=The Old Firehouse | alt= | url=http://www.oldfirehouseexeter.co.uk/ | email= | address=50 New North Rd, EX4 4EP | lat=50.726743 | long=-3.527951 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 277279 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q70628357 | lastedit= | content=Open until 2-3AM most nights, the Firehouse is a pub serving local ales, ciders and food until the wee hours. The 14-inch pizzas, served from 9PM (after the normal menu ends) are highly recommended, at £7 each. Live folk/surf-rock on Fridays, jazz/world on Saturdays, flamenco guitar on Thursdays. Occasionally there is an entry charge on weekend nights. }} * {{drink | name=Ship Inn | alt= | url=https://www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk/pubs/devon/ship/ | email= | address=1-3 Martins Ln, EX1 1EY | lat=50.72350 | long=-3.53022 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 272040 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-01-10 | content=Green King }} * {{drink | name=Sawyer's Arms | alt= | url=https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/pubs/all-pubs/england/devon/the-sawyers-arms-exeter | email= | address=121 Cowick St, St Thomas, EX4 1JD | lat=50.71540 | long=-3.54420 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 269520 | tollfree= | hours=8AM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2022-01-10 | content=JD Wetherspoons }} * {{drink | name=The Tally Ho! | alt= | url=http://www.tallyhoinnexeter.co.uk/ | email= | address=2 Countess Wear Rd, Exeter EX2 6LG | lat=50.70312 | long=-3.50251 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 271794 | tollfree= | hours=noon-10:30 | price= | wikidata=Q70628402 | lastedit=2022-01-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Thatched House | alt= | url=http://www.thatchedhouse.net/ | email= | address=Exwick Rd, Exeter EX4 2BQ | lat=50.72632 | long=-3.54872 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 272920 | tollfree= | hours= 5-9PM W Th, 5-11PM F, noon-11PM Sa, noon-5PM Su (closed M,Tu) | price= | wikidata=Q70628409 | lastedit=2022-01-10 | content=Thatched 16th century building }} * {{drink | name=Timepiece | alt= | url=http://www.timepiecenightclub.co.uk/ | email= | address=Little Castle St, EX4 3PX | lat=50.725645 | long=-3.528611 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 493096 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A bar with a nightclub above. }} * {{drink | name=The Twisted Oak | alt= | url=http://www.thetwistedoak.co.uk/ | email= | address=Little Johns Cross Hill, EX2 9RG | lat=50.70649 | long=-3.55667 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 273666 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-01-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Well House Tavern | alt= | url= | email= | address=16-17 Cathedral Yard, EX1 1HB | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Attached to Michael Caine's restaurant on Cathedral Green. Good selection of Real Ales, and a skeleton in the basement!<!--Still exists?--> }} * {{drink | name=Bridge Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bridge Hill, Topsham EX3 0QQ | lat=50.6846 | long=-3.4599 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 873862 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-2:30PM, 5:30PM-9:30PM | price= | lastedit=2022-06-15 | content=Remarkable 16th century pub with restaurant. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Globe Backpackers | alt= | url=http://www.exeterbackpackers.co.uk/ | email=info@exeterbackpackers.co.uk | address=71 Holloway St, EX2 4JD | lat=50.719178 | long=-3.528285 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 215521 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=£17 | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Central hostel with rooms and dorm. Cleanliness of facilities & clientele variable. }} * {{sleep | name=Premier Inn Exeter Central St Davids | alt= | url=https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/england/devon/exeter/exeter-central-st-davids.html | email= | address=Bonhay Road, EX4 4BG | lat=50.729237 | long=-3.541972 | directions= | phone=+44 871 527 9278 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From £35 | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=3-star chain close to main railway station. Premier Inn has one other hotel in city ("Exeter Centre"), and two edge-of-town ("Exeter M5" & "Exeter Countess Wear"). }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Indigo | alt= | url=https://exeter.hotelindigo.com/ | email= | address=3 Catherine St EX1 1EU | lat= | long= | directions=100 yards north of cathedral | phone=+44 1392 301801 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2023-02-14 | content=104-bedroom hotel in the former House of Fraser department store. }} * {{sleep | name=Great Western Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.greatwesternhotel.co.uk/ | email=bookings@greatwesternhotel.co.uk | address=St David's Station Approach, EX4 4NU | lat=50.730456 | long=-3.542097 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 274039 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=single £46, double £72 | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Simple 2-star next to main railway station, 1 km north of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=City Gate | alt= | url=https://www.citygatehotel.com/ | email= | address=Iron Bridge, Lower North Street, EX4 3RB | lat=50.723693 | long=-3.534853 | directions=next to Guildhall shopping centre | phone=+44 1392 495811 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2020-08-13 | content=3-star pub with quirky stylish rooms near town centre. Owned by Young's Brewery. }} * {{sleep | name=Leonardo Hotel | alt=formerly Jury's Inn | url=https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/hotels/exeter | email= | address=Western Way EX1 2DB | lat=50.7258 | long=-3.5218 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 312400 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms from £79 | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=3-star, reliable chain choice near city centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel du Vin Exeter | alt= | url=https://www.hotelduvin.com/locations/exeter/ | email= | address=Magdalen St, EX2 4HY | lat=50.720183 | long=-3.5264 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 790120 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From £89 | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=4-star with spa & bistro, central. Variable room size: "cosy" means kinda small. }} * {{sleep | name=Silver Springs | alt= | url=https://www.silversprings.co.uk/ | email=reservations@silversprings.co.uk | address=12 Richmond Road, St. Davids, EX4 4JA | lat=50.726473 | long=-3.536584 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 494040 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Singles from £85, double from £95 | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=Serviced apartments, short-stay available. }} * {{sleep | name=University of Exeter | alt= | url=http://www.exeter.ac.uk/visit/university/stay/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From £60 double | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=This is primarily an accommodation agency for Exeter students. During Easter and summer vacation rooms with B&B may be available on the Streatham Campus, 2 km north of city centre, if they're not booked out to conferences. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Nobody Inn | alt= | url=https://www.nobodyinn.co.uk/ | email= | address=Doddiscombesleigh EX6 7PS | lat=50.668 | long=-3.621 | directions= | phone=+44 1647 252394 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2020-06-30 | content=Old-style country inn with 5 rooms, comfy but not spacious. No children under 5. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Mercure Southgate Hotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6624/index.en.shtml | email= | address=Southernhay East, EX1 1QF | lat=50.72067 | long=-3.52856 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=£115 double | lastedit=2018-06-07 | content=Great breakfast, decent rooms, friendly staff. Parking £12 per day. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=St Olaves Hotel | alt= | url=http://st-olaves.devontophotels.com/en/ | email=info@olaves.co.uk | address=16 Mary Arches St, EX4 3AZ | lat=50.722451 | long=-3.534898 | directions= | phone=+44 1392 217736 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=£115 double, £155 suite | lastedit=2018-04-17 | content=3-star in Georgian house with restaurant & tapas bar. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Southernay House | alt= | url=https://southernhayhouse.com/ | email= | address=36 Southernay East EX1 1NX | lat= | long= | directions=by cathedral | phone=+44 1392 439000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double from £110 | lastedit=2020-06-27 | content=Wonderful small hotel in Georgian townhouse. No dogs in rooms. }} ==Stay safe== Exeter is very safe compared to other cities in the UK. There is a slight likelihood that you will be asked for money by homeless people at some point, but most of them are not aggressive and will simply move to the next person if you tell them, 'No, sorry.' == Connect == As of Sept 2023, Exeter and its approach roads have 4G from O2 and Vodafone, and 5G from EE and Three. ==Go next == One of the main pulling points for the city is the ease in which one can get out of the urban environment and into the countryside. Exeter is a convenient gateway to Dartmoor, Plymouth and the rest of Devon and Cornwall. * Beaches: the nearest are at [[Exmouth (England) | Exmouth]] and Dawlish Warren, but the whole of the south-west peninsula is within reach. * Scenic towns: [[Lyme Regis]] to the east, [[Totnes]] and [[Dartmouth (Devon) | Dartmouth]] to the south * [[Dartmoor National Park | Dartmoor]] and [[Exmoor National Park | Exmoor]] National Parks * Countryside: The Devon countryside offers rolling hills, fast-flowing rivers, and countless picturesque villages and small towns * Other major towns in Devon: [[Torquay]] and [[Plymouth (England) | Plymouth]] city. {{routebox | image1=UK-Motorway-M5.svg | imagesize1=50 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Bristol]] | minorl1=[[Tiverton (England) | Tiverton]] | directionr1=S | minorr1= | majorr1=merges with [[Image:UK_road_A38.svg|40px|A38]] | image2=UK_road_A30.svg | imagesize2=40 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Land's End]] | minorl2=[[Okehampton]] | directionr2=E | minorr2= | majorr2=towards [[Image:UK road A303.svg|40px]] ([[London]]) and [[Image:UK road A35.svg|30px]] ([[Bournemouth]]) | image3=UK_road_A38.svg | imagesize3=40 | directionl3=N | majorl3=merges with [[Image:UK-Motorway-M5.svg|40px|M5]] | minorl3= | directionr3=S | minorr3=[[Buckfastleigh]] | majorr3=[[Plymouth (England) | Plymouth]] | image4=UK road A376.svg | imagesize4=40 | directionl4=W | majorl4=END | minorl4= | directionr4=SE | minorr4=[[Lympstone]] | majorr4=[[Exmouth (England) | Exmouth]] | image5=UK road A380.svg | imagesize5=40 | directionl5=N | majorl5=merges with [[Image:UK_road_A38.svg|40px|A38]] | minorl5= | directionr5=S | minorr5=[[Newton Abbot]] | majorr5=[[Torquay]] }} {{guidecity}} {{geo|50.721800|-3.533617}} {{IsPartOf|Devon}} p5kjq9clg72go4to2qoscwwp2lo2qud 0 11271 5090987 5019447 2025-07-10T17:50:02Z Coleisforeditor 2327348 5090987 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Exmoor banner.jpg|caption=Heather atop Exmoor}} [[Image:Exmoor 09 (4652823114).jpg|thumb|300px|Exmoor]] [[Image:Exmoor ponies.jpg|thumb|300px|Exmoor ponies]] '''Exmoor National Park''' is situated in the south west of the United Kingdom. It spreads across the north coast of [[Devon]] and west [[Somerset (England)|Somerset]] and was one of Britain's first [[United Kingdom national parks|national parks]]. ==Understand== For many R.D. Blackmore's novel, '''Lorna Doone''', set about '''Brendon''' in [[Devon]] and '''Oare''' in [[Somerset (England)|Somerset]] provides an extra appeal for the park,- as do associations with the poet, Coleridge. ===History=== Exmoor earned National Park status in 1954 and is named after its main river, the River Exe, whose source is near [[Simonsbath]], [[Somerset (England)|Somerset]]. ===Landscape=== Most of the 267 square miles (693 km²) of Exmoor is open heath and moorland. The highest point on Exmoor is Dunkery Beacon, at 1704 ft (519 m), also the highest point in [[Somerset (England)|Somerset]]. Exmoor has 34 miles (55 km) of dramatic coastline including the highest sea cliffs in [[England]]. The [[South West Coast Path]] passes along these cliffs and was voted Britain's favourite trail in 2006. ===Flora and fauna=== Some moors are covered by a variety of grasses and sedges, while others are dominated by heather. Land is mainly used for livestock, although there are some areas which are cultivated such as the Brendon Hills. Sheep have grazed on the moors for more than 3000 years and traditional breeds include Exmoor Horn, Cheviot and Whiteface Dartmoor and Greyface Dartmoor sheep. Devon red cattle are also farmed in the area. Exmoor ponies can be seen roaming freely on the moors. They are a race rather than a breed of pony, and are the closest breed remaining in Europe to Wild Horses. The ponies are rounded up once a year to be marked and checked over. Red deer have a stronghold on the moor and can be seen on quiet hillsides in remote areas, particularly in the early morning. The famous '''Beast of Exmoor''' is reputed to haunt the moor, with many sightings since the 1960s. It is possibly a cougar or black leopard which was released sometime in the 1960s or 1970s after a law passed making it illegal for them to be kept in captivity outside zoos. It has been blamed for many sheep kills over the years. The moorland habitat is also home to hundreds of species of birds and insects. Birds seen on the moor include Merlin, Buzzard, Peregrine Falcon, Eurasian Curlew, European Stonechat, Dipper, Dartford Warbler and Ring Ouzel. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.visit-exmoor.co.uk/ Visit Exmoor] * [http://www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/ Exmoor National Park] ==Get in== ===By train=== The closest stations are Tiverton Parkway, Taunton and Barnstaple. ===By bus=== Buses to the edges of the national park are plentiful. There are regular buses from Taunton to Dulverton, the 25B, and Minehead, the 28. From Barnstaple there are regular buses to Lynton & Lymouth. ==Get around== {{mapframe|height=340 | width=480 | zoom=10}}{{mapshape}} ==Villages== Villages below are in the county of [[Somerset (England)|Somerset]] unless otherwise stated. * {{listing | name=Brendon (Devon) | lat=51.22007 | long=-3.76427 | wikidata=Q1217620 | wikipedia=Brendon | content=In 'Lorna Doone' country. }} * {{listing | name=Combe Martin (Devon) | lat=51.20001 | long=-4.02539 | wikidata=Q1225823 | wikipedia=Combe Martin | content=A long village with a beach. }} * {{listing | name=Dulverton | lat= 51.04014 | long=-3.55016 | wikidata=Q749338 | wikipedia=Dulverton | content=A large and attractive village on the '''River Barle'''. Often called the "gateway to [[Exmoor]]. It is filled with old fashioned cottages with some modern housing on the outskirts of the village. }} * {{listing | name=Dunster | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q1229166 | wikipedia=Dunster | content=It retains a central yarn market building and has a castle above the village. }} * {{listing | name=[[Lynton and Lynmouth]] (Devon) | lat=51.230396| long=-3.836361 | directions= | wikidata= | content=Hillside and coastal villages with a funicular between them. }} * {{listing | name=Oare | lat=51.2127 | long=-3.7163 | wikidata=Q4360571 | wikipedia=Oare, Somerset | content=The centre of 'Lorna Doone' country, where Carver Doone shot Lorna in the church on her wedding day with John Ridd. }} * {{listing | name=[[Porlock]] | lat=51.209 | long=-3.595 | wikidata=Q1225604 | wikipedia=Porlock | content=A large village with picturesque houses. }} * {{listing | name=[[Porlock Weir]] | lat=51.219| long=-3.628 | wikidata=Q7230186 | wikipedia=Porlock Weir | content=A delightful coastal village and the start of a superb 5-mile cliff walk to '''Culbone Church''' }} * {{listing | name=Selworthy | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q1815330 | wikipedia=Selworthy | content=Tiny but one of the most striking. Thatched cottages around the green, a fine church and great views from '''Selworthy Beacon'''. }} * {{listing | name=Simonsbath | lat=51.1389 | long=-3.7558 | wikidata=Q2414371 | wikipedia=Simonsbath | content=A small village. }} * {{listing | name=Winsford | lat=51.1028 | long=-3.5631 | wikidata=Q985314 | wikipedia=Winsford, Somerset | content=A fine inland village, where a small tributary joins the '''River Exe''' with a thatched pub and numerous bridges. }} ==See== The Valley of Rocks. A short walk from Lynton either via high up along the coast path or inland. Well known for its dramatic geology, coastline and herds of wild goats. ===Other beauty spots=== * {{see | name=Dunkery Beacon | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5315367 | wikipedia=Dunkery Hill | lastedit=2022-01-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Doone Valley | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.18604 | long=-3.72854 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | wikipedia= | lastedit=2022-01-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Tarr Steps | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17530233 | wikipedia=Tarr Steps | lastedit=2022-01-11 | content=A clapper bridge on the '''Barle''' near Dulverton. }} * {{see | name=Valley of Rocks (Devon) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.233 | long=-3.853 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7912364 | wikipedia=Valley of Rocks | lastedit=2022-01-11 | content=A spectacular clifftop road from Lynton, not a valley in the normal sense. }} * {{see | name=Watersmeet (Devon)| alt= | url=https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/watersmeet | email= | address=Watersmeet House, Watersmeet Rd, Lynmouth EX35 6NT | lat=51.22316 | long=-3.80021 | directions=on the A39 | phone=+44 1598 753348 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7974449 | wikipedia=Watersmeet House | lastedit=2022-01-11 | content=Where the East and West '''Lyn''' meet. }} ==Do== Walk - Exmoor is a great area for walking. [http://www.whatsonexmoor.co.uk/walking.htm]. To get great enjoyment from this no particular fitness level is required, although there is plenty to satisfy long distance walkers too (like the [[Two Moors Way]]). Drive the {{do | name=A39 | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | content= the magnificent drivers' road from [[Minehead]] through [[Lynton and Lynmouth|Lynmouth]] with bends, hills and views of the Bristol Channel. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== Plenty of Somerset produced local food and drink, boxes of fudge and clotted cream are always popular. ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Staghunters Inn | alt= | url=http://www.staghunters.com/ | email=tay@staghunters.com | address=Brendon, Lynton, EX35 6PS | lat=51.21931 | long=-3.76630 | directions= | phone=+44 1598 741222 | tollfree= | hours=noon-11PM | price= | wikidata=Q79837580 | lastedit=2022-01-11 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Coleridge Way Holiday Cottages | alt= | url=http://coleridgewaycottages.co.uk/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=info@coleridgewaycottages.co.uk | address=Windwhistle Farm, Treborough | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1984 640582 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-02-22 | content= }} ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Heddon's Gate Hotel | alt=A tranquil country house hotel set on the steep slopes of the wooded Heddon Valley | url=http://www.heddonsgate.co.uk | email=hotel@heddonsgate.co.uk | address=Martinhoe, Parracombe, EX31 4PZ | lat=51.21908 | long=-3.92388 | directions= | phone = +44 1598 763481 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Half-board £75-101 pppn | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} ===Camping=== * {{sleep | name=Cloud Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/holidays/cloud-farm-campsite | email= | address=Hookway Hill, Oare, Lynton EX35 6NU | lat=51.20675 | long=-3.72723 | directions=entrance track west of The Buttery and ford | phone=+44 1598 741190 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111678773 | lastedit=2022-04-21 | content=A National Trust-run campsite next in the small Badgworthy Water Valley, with excellent showers and outdoor table tennis. }} ==Stay safe== ==Go next== * [[Minehead]] to the east * [[Ilfracombe]] to the west {{geo|51.09|-3.56}} {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|North Devon}} 5irn0gndz8w40z2bp9ht9hgrf93ynl8 0 11629 5091134 5046756 2025-07-11T01:41:17Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* By donkey */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091134 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Santorini banner.jpg}} [[File:Crater rim alley - Fira - Santorini - Greece - 08.jpg|thumb|Fira is built on the caldera cliffs]] '''Fira''' ([[Greek phrasebook|Greek]]: Φηρά) is the main town of Thira, the largest island in the [[Santorini]] archipelago. It is the island's cultural centre and boasts a variety of attractions such as museums and art galleries, two cathedrals and numerous picturesque churches to explore. Fira is also home to the archipelago's largest ferry port, with connections to other islands in the Aegean Sea. ==Understand== Every day during the summer is a bustling metropolis as cruise ships from all over the Mediterranean and Aegean seas descend. As a result prices in Thira (and Santorini generally) tend to be a little higher than other Greek Islands. ==Get in== {{main|Santorini#Get_in}}. ===By bus=== The main bus station is {{marker|type=go|name=Fira bus station|lat=36.41649 | long=25.43341}}, where bus services from [[Oia (Greece)|Oia]], [[Kamari]], [[Perissa]], and [[Akrotiri]] arrive into the city. Most services are hourly. There are also bus services to and from the airport. [https://www.ktel-santorini.gr/index.php/en/services-eng/timetable-summer-eng Online timetable] {{dead link|December 2020}}. ===By quad bike=== Another great way to get around the (small) island is by '''hiring a quad bike''' (usually named "ATV") from numerous locations in the main tourist villages. For €20 a day, it is better value than taxis and more fun than a bus. ===On foot=== There are signposted hiking trails from neighbouring towns, by far the most popular being the Oia - Fira hiking trail which takes about 2.5 hours and roughly follows the caldera. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|36.4198|25.4320|zoom=15}} The limited space on the caldera ridge has led to a very ''condensed'' city layout with many narrow streets that are only accessible by foot, motorcycle, or donkey. Exploring the city by foot is the most convenient, because of the many steep paths and steps, and also the most rewarding because the centre is dotted by souvenir shops and art galleries. There are only a few streets suitable for motorised vehicles, and almost no parking opportunities. ===By gondola=== [[File:Seilbahnfira2.jpg|thumb|The gondolas connecting town centre to the port.]] The {{marker|type=around|name=gondola lift|wikidata=Q7420597|inline=yes}} connects the town centre of Fira to its port at the waterfront of the caldera. The lift has a capacity of 1 200 passengers per hour, so there are rarely waiting lines in either direction. Journey travel time is 3 minutes. Perfect for families with children as each gondola carries up to 6 passengers. Single journey costs {{EUR|6}}. ===By donkey=== An alternative transportation method between Fira and its port, for those who like adventures, is a ride by donkey, which climb up the steps on the cliff. Obviously there are weight limits for riders. The '''donkey trail''' takes a lot longer than the gondolas, but is a good option if there are long queues at the gondola base station. ==See== ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Museum of Prehistoric Thira | alt= | url=http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/1/eh151.jsp?obj_id=3325 | email=efakyk@culture.gr | address=Τ.Κ. 84700, Thira | lat=36.4185 | long=25.437 | fax=+30 22860 23217 | phone=+30 22860 23217 | tollfree= | hours=08:30-15:30 daily, closed on Tuesdays. | price=Full €6, reduced €3. Special ticketing package for Ancient Thera, Akrotiri, Archaeological Museum, Museum of Prehistoric Thera, Collection of Icons and Ecclesiastical Artefacts at Pyrgos: €14, reduced €7. Free entrance on 6 Mar, 18 Apr, 18 May, and the European Heritage Days (last weekend of September) | wikipedia=Museum of Prehistoric Thera | wikidata=Q16895556 | lastedit=2022-04-06 | content=Definitely pay a visit to this museum, where the story of [[Santorini#Historic_Sights|Akrotiri]] and other ancient settlements is vividly told through a stunning collection of Neolithic and Bronze Age artefacts. }} * {{see | name=Folklore Museum | alt= | url=https://www.santorinisfolkmuseum.com/ | email= | address= | lat=36.42309 | long=25.43456 | directions= | phone=+30 698 704 8274 | tollfree= | hours=M 10:00-17:00 | price={{EUR|5}} | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Museum about the evolution of lifestyle and living on the Santorini archipelago, with displays featuring artisan crafting, a cobbler, blacksmith, distillery, winery, and even a mine underground. All lifestyles from cave houses to modern day typical white dwellings are covered. A guided tour is a necessity to get the most out of a visit, which takes about 45 minutes. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Archaeological Museum of Thera | alt= | url=http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/1/eh151.jsp?obj_id=3400 | email= | address= | lat=36.4178 | long=25.4317 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 08:00-15:00 | price=Full €2, reduced €1 | wikipedia=Archaeological Museum of Thera | wikidata=Q4785441 | lastedit=2019-04-01 | content=It houses artefacts from Proto-Cycladic culture of the 3rd millennium BC, and continues on to the Classical period. }} * {{see | name=Megaro Gyzi Museum | alt= | url=http://www.megarogyzi.gr/ | email=info@megarogyzi.gr | address= | lat=36.42082 | long=25.43089 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 023077 | tollfree= | hours=May - Oct | price= | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=An ethnographic museum with a collection of maps, landscapes, engravings, and dresses of the Cycladic Islands from the 15th to the 19th century. It is housed in the Megaro Gyzi mansion dated to the 17th century. It also features an exhibition of old manuscripts from the 16th to the 19th century, as well as painting and photographs of Santorini. }} * {{see | name=Roger Tourte Exposition | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.42226 | long=25.42847 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 023016 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Exhibition of work by [[France|French]] artist J.R. Tourte, who moved to Greece before the outbreak of the [[Second World War]] and toured the [[Cyclades]] until his death in 1972. His work consists of watercoloured scenes of all the major Cycladic Islands along with maps drawn by the artist. Most of the scenes show the authentic islands before they became tourist attractions. The exposition area is in tunnels underground, and are pleasantly cool during hot summer days. }} ===Religious architecture=== * {{see | name=The Three Bells of Fira | alt=Τρεις καμπάνες των Φηρών | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.42333 | long=25.42855 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | image=Santorin (GR), Fira, Drei Glocken von Fira -- 2017 -- 2582.jpg | lastedit=2022-04-07 | content=Officially known as The Catholic Church of the Dormition, this church famed for its iconic three bells, blue dome, and picturesque views which make it one of the most picturesque viewpoints on the island. The history dates back to the mid-17th century when two cave churches were built into the-then solid cliff face, but these were destroyed as the cliff receded, and an infirmary was built in its place which attracted Jesuits who lived on the site until the land was given to the Diocese of Santorini. The current church was built in 1757 and underwent many expansions and refurbishments, for example in 1958 when it was damaged by an earthquake. Hikers following the Fira to Oia coastal path will pass the Three Bells along their way. }} * {{see | name=Dominican Convent | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.42072 | long=25.43065 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 022420 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Dominican church and convent. Founded in 1595, it is the oldest Catholic nunnery in [[Greece]], but the current building dates from 1864. The church was consecrated in 1825 as the Church of the Virgin of the Rosary, but was severely damaged during the 1956 earthquake and subsequently repaired. The sanctuary behind the altar in the church is the icon of Our Lady of the Rosary with St. Dominic and St. Catherine flanked by statues of St. Joseph. }} * {{see | name=Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.41678 | long=25.43187 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | image=Santorini 22.jpg | lastedit=2022-04-07 | content=Cathedral built in 1827, traditionally styled with an outside courtyard space and nicely decorated interior. It was heavily damaged by the 1956 earthquake but subsequently restored to its former glory. }} * {{see | name=Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist | alt=Καθεδρικός ναός του Αγίου Ιωάννη του Βαπτιστή | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.420528 | long=25.430806 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15819881 | lastedit=2022-04-07 | content=Parish of the Roman Catholic Church in Fira, serving as the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Santorini founded in 1204. The baroque church building in blue-gray and cream colours was built in 1823 and restored in 1970 after the earthquake of 1956. }} ===Nature=== * {{see | name=Nea Kameni | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.4 | long=25.4 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price={{EUR|2.50}} | wikidata=Q1547142 | lastedit=2022-04-07 | content=This island of only 2 km in diameter in the centre of the Santorini Caldera is the summit of the current volcano, and the entire island is of volcanic origin. The volcano is dormant, but major eruptions took place in the past 3 centuries, the last one from 1939 - 1941. Since a small eruption in 1950 which extruded an additional lava dome, volcanic activity has been low, and it can be safely visited because volcanologists of the Institute for the Study and Monitoring of the Santorini Volcano continuously monitor the activity levels. There are many active sulphur vents. The nearly barren island is only a 10 minute boat journey away from Fira port. The climb to the 130 m summit is a hiking trail of about 1 km in length, over uneven gravel paths. Note: there are no supplies, shade, or toilets on the island so come well prepared; bring loads of water! Proper hiking shoes are a necessity. }} * {{see | name=Karavolades Stairs | alt=Donkey Trail | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.419 | long=25.42934 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Steps leading from the town centre to the harbour. The trail is intensively used by donkeys, which gave it the name ''Donkey Trail''. There are about 600 steps, with great views along the path. Walking down is easier than walking up, so the alternative is to take the gondolas back up instead for {{EUR|6}} per passenger. }} ==Do== Apart from the few museums and craft studios (which are open fairly late), travelers seeking unique experiences unobtainable elsewhere will be disappointed. * Stroll through the shopping district (for overpriced jewelry, designer clothing and handbags) and go to the numerous (American-styled) discos and bars. * Watch a sunset over dinner. * Walk along Agiou Mina street. This street goes through Fira part-way down the cliff, from the south part of town all the way to the cable car. It provides the stunning views of Fira that you came to see. You can walk either north or south, but walking north has the advantage that the main part of Fira is in front of you. To get there, from the main cathedral, walk with the sea to your right, just left of Hotel Atlantis, about 50 m. Walk around 1500 BC restaurant, and you'll be on the path. Just be careful of the donkey poop! * Go to the Old port. Whoever said "Getting there is half the fun" was likely referring to the Old Port. Or, in this case, getting there is 99% of the fun. There is almost nothing to do at the Old Port (except perhaps take a couple of pictures from sea level). But the ride down and up can be fun. Your choices are the cable car (€6 one way), donkey ride (€5 per person, plus a €5 "tip" for your "guide"). Try to avoid walking this road at any cost, it's quite long and it's completely covered with slippery donkey poop. The smell makes you want to vomit. If you want to avoid the smell and the scene just take the cable car but aware of possible congestion when people from the ferries arrive and leave. Some local mule guides may also try to cheat you by demanding a payment for walking down, they will try to sell you a small piece of paper that says ticket without any numbers on it. Ignore these people, the road is free. * Get out of the tourist section. The tourist part of Fira is surprisingly small; a couple minutes walk away from the sea brings you out of the tourist area. While the architecture here is not stunning, it certainly is different than you will see elsewhere. Plus, you'll have a chance to marvel at the fact that even though Fira land prices are very high, there are still empty lots in the middle of the city. * {{do | name=Fira - Oia hike | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.41555 | long=25.43163 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2022-04-06 | content=By far the most spectacular hike on Thira is the trail from Fira to [[Oia (Greece)|Oia]], with a length of 11 km. It offers some breathtaking views over the caldera, and the other islands of the archipelago. Estimated time: 3 - 4 hours. Map marker indicates the start of the trail in Fira. }} * {{do | name=The White Door Theatro | alt= | url=https://www.whitedoorsantorini.com/ | email=info@whitedoorsantorini.com | address= | lat=36.419475 | long=25.431549 | directions= | phone=+30 2286021770 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Theatre famous for its play ''The Greek Wedding'', a comedy set in 1940s Greece. }} * {{do | name=Santorini Zen Spa | alt= | url=https://www.santorinizenspa.com/store/c1/santorini-spa | email=santorinizenspa.com@gmail.com | address= | lat=36.422964 | long=25.433869 | directions= | phone=+30 6985824393 | tollfree= | hours=09:00 - 20:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Massage and relaxation. }} * {{do | name=Cave Santorini Spa | alt= | url=https://www.cavesantorinispa.com/ | email=info@cavesantorinispa.com | address= | lat=36.445968 | long=25.427592 | directions= | phone=+30 6977210537 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Spa built in a 500-year-old residence partially underground, keeping the temperature at a constant 17 °C. }} * {{do | name=Kokkalo | alt= | url=https://kokkalosantorini.com/ | email=reservation@kokkalosantorini.com | address=25 Martiou Street | lat=36.422737 | long=25.431804 | directions= | phone=+30 2286025407 | tollfree= | hours=14:00 - 00:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Restaurant offering cooking courses to teach yourself how to cook [[Greek]] cuisine the traditional way. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=MATI Gallery | alt= | url=https://matiartgallery.com/ | email=info@matiartgallery.com | address= | lat=36.4171 | long=25.43171 | directions= | phone=+30 22860 23814 | tollfree= | hours=10:00 - 00:00 daily | price=Free | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=The gallery of Greek artist Yorgos Kypris, established in 1990. On display is a selection of artworks including sculptures and installations, drawings, and jewellery. }} * {{buy | name=Leoni Schmiedel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.41043 | long=25.4434 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 023770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Art gallery in Firostefani focussing on collages on the theme of Santorini, made with natural materials such as sand and driftwood. }} * {{buy | name=Krystalla Art Gallery | alt= | url=http://www.tzamia-krystallagallery.gr/home-en.html | email=info@tzamia-krystallagallery.gr | address= | lat=36.41843 | long=25.43126 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 021226 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Fine arts gallery with numerous paintings by local artist Nicholas. }} * {{buy | name=Pablo Cruzz Art | alt= | url= | email=penny-ka@hotmail.com | address= | lat=36.4195 | long=25.43205 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 022972 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Art gallery, jewellery, and bracelets. }} * {{buy | name=Art of the Loom Gallery | alt= | url=https://www.artoftheloomgalleries.gr/en/ | email=info@artoftheloom.gr | address= | lat=36.42462 | long=25.429 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 021617 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Glass art and jewellery souvenirs. }} ==Eat== [[File:Sunset - Fira.JPG|thumb|Sunset]] In the early evening the passengers of the cruise ships return to their vessels and cafes become much more relaxed. *{{eat | name=Nikolas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Erythrou Stavrou | lat=36.41863 | long=25.43173 | directions=head straight up the pedestrian mall (Danezi) and take the first right | phone=+30 2286024869 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Appetizer {{EUR|4}}, mains {{EUR|8-14}} | content=A local eatery preserving traditional Hellenic cuisine. No English menu is provided, but the staff is efficient in explaining the Greek menu board and provide suggestions if necessary. Service is a departure from the overly warm receptions with most tourist traps as it is quick, efficient, and sufficiently friendly. Must tries include the Horiatiki (Greek) salad, moussaka, beef stew. Ask for "horta", a plate of simple boiled greenery ordered by the locals and not on the menu as it is both time-consuming and difficult to prepare on a mass-scale. Though the dish may not look overly appetizing when it arrives at the table, sprinkle on some fresh lemon juice from the provided wedge and add some salt to bring the traditional veggie dish alive. }} *{{eat | name=To Ouzeri | alt= | url=http://toouzerisantorini.com/ | email= | address= | lat=36.417428 | long=25.431997 | directions=in the centre of Fira at the Fabrika shopping centre which is next to the Cathedral | phone=+30 22860 21566 | tollfree= | hours=13:00 - 22:00 daily | price= | content=George and Iordana, the owners, welcome warmly all their guests. You will find a great variety of traditional Greek dishes using the local products of Santorini, Greek salad, green salad with Chorotyri, Mousaka, Ouzo meatballs, Soutzoukakia. }} *{{eat | name=Parea | url=https://parearestaurant.gr/ | email= | address= | lat=36.418183 | long=25.431786 | directions=two blocks from Theotokopoulou square on M. Danezi street | phone=+30 2286 025444 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers a wide range of cheap, tasty food including salads, sandwiches, moussaka, a variety of gyros, pizza, spaghetti, omelets, and both savory and dessert crepes. Great for travelers on a budget and the service is relatively prompt by comparison to many of the other restaurants in Fira. Gyros are &euro;1.70, Greek salads are &euro;4.50. They also deliver from 10:00 - 24:00. }} * {{eat | name=Falafeland | alt= | url= | email=Falafeland2016@hotmail.com | address= | lat=36.418080 | long=25.433562 | directions= | phone=+30 2286036359 | tollfree= | hours=noon - 21:30 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Falafel and healthy food with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. }} * {{eat | name=Lombranos | alt= | url=http://www.facebook.com/Lombranos/?ref=page_internal | email=j.lombranos@gmail.com | address=Ormos Firon | lat=36.417325 | long=25.428222 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 025173 | tollfree= | hours=11:3 - 21:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Seafood restaurant in the harbour, with a view over the caldera. }} * {{eat | name=Fly Away | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.443436 | long=25.426083 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 025765 | tollfree= | hours=13:00 - 23:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Creative restaurant and bar. }} * {{eat | name=Romantica | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.424484 | long=25.429937 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 022862 | tollfree= | hours=11:00 - 01:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Seafood restaurant in a romantic setting, great for couples. }} * {{eat | name=Katsaboo | alt= | url=https://www.calmcollection.gr/katsaboo-restaurant | email=Info@calmcollection.gr | address=Agiou Athabaskan 101 | lat=36.422295 | long=25.435840 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 022575 | tollfree= | hours=08:00 - 22:45 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Great Greek restaurant but a bit on the pricey side. Try the feta with sesame and honey. }} * {{eat | name=To Steki tou Nikou | alt= | url= | email= | address=Epar.Od. Firon-Ias | lat=36.457226 | long=25.423511 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 025239 | tollfree= | hours=12:00 - 23:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Traditional Greek restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=The Vine | alt= | url=http://www.thevinesantorini.com/ | email= | address=Υπαπαντής 2 | lat=36.417206 | long=25.431740 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 025554 | tollfree= | hours=12:00 - 00:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Cocktail and wine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Convivium | alt= | url=https://convivium.gr/ | email=conviviumsantorini@gmail.com | address=Δανέζη Μ | lat=36.418357 | long=25.432112 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 028111 | tollfree= | hours=11:30 - 22:45 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Italian cuisine and seafood. }} * {{eat | name=Los Tres Amigos | alt=The Three Friends | url=http://www.taqueriasantorini.com/ | email=lostresamigos17@gmail.com | address=Δανέζη Μ | lat=36.418207 | long=25.433512 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 036869 | tollfree= | hours=11:00 - 02:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Mexican cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Kaliya Reimagined Food & Drinks | alt= | url=http://www.kaliya-restaurant.com/ | email= | address= | lat=36.417487 | long=25.431711 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 023807 | tollfree= | hours=08:00 - 01:30 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Fine dining restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=No Name Restaurant Santorini | alt= | url= | email= | address=25is Martiou 25 | lat=36.424233 | long=25.430150 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 033582 | tollfree= | hours=11:00 - 23:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Mediterranean and Greek grill restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Salt & Pepper | alt= | url= | email= | address=25th March St | lat=36.4209 | long=25.43182 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 022747 | tollfree= | hours=13:30 - 15:30; 19:00 - 23:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-23 | content=Traditional Greek restaurant run by a Santorini couple, taking pride to source as many ingredients from local farmers and fishermen, and only using Greek olive oil and feta cheese. This restaurant offers a culinary experience, but at rates comparable to other restaurants in Fira. This is a small restaurant, so reservations are absolutely necessary. }} * {{eat | name=Fu Li Hua | alt= | url= | email=fulihuagr@gmail.com | address=25is Martiou 303 | lat=36.418408 | long=25.432493 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 022699 | tollfree= | hours=11:30 - 23:30 | price= | lastedit=2022-05-28 | content=Chinese restaurant on the main square offering a wide range of dishes, including authentic Chinese dishes, friendly service. }} ==Drink== * '''Two Brothers Bar''', An internationally famed watering hole, catering to the tourist party crowd. *{{drink | name=Bonjour Café | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Central Square of Fira | phone=+30 22860 23744 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Modern café bar open all day offering variety of coffees, juices, soft drinks cocktails and snacks. Open from early in the morning until late after midnight. }} * '''The Highlander''', a Scottish bar, Happy Hour from 21:00-22:30 * '''Koo''', cool nightclub to hang out after drinking at the other bars and to close out the night. * {{drink | name=Anhydrous Winery | alt= | url=https://www.anhydrouswinery.com/ | email=info@anhydrouswinery.com | address= | lat=36.42213 | long=25.43661 | directions= | phone=+30 22860 23140 | tollfree= | hours=11:00 - 20:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-08 | content=Winery, restaurant, and spa. Fun note: "anhydrous" is a Greek word that means "does not contain water"! }} * {{drink | name=MarinEra | alt= | url=http://www.marinera.gr/ | email=info@marinera.gr | address=Υπαπαντής | lat=36.418522 | long=25.431169 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 025026 | tollfree= | hours=12:00 - 22:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Cocktail bar. }} * {{drink | name=Nektar Lounge | alt= | url=https://www.nektarlounge.gr/ | email= | address= | lat=36.416850 | long=25.431562 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 024047 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=Cafe and bar with a fantastic view over the caldera. }} * {{drink | name=Triana Tavern | alt= | url= | email=trianatavern@gmail.com | address=25ης Μαρτίου 405 | lat=36.420133 | long=25.432055 | directions= | phone=+30 2286 024005 | tollfree= | hours=12:00 - 23:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2022-04-10 | content=A cosy tavern with great service, but the food isn't too special. }} ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Adamant Suites | url=http://www.adamantsuites.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 23432 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Adamant suites is a small private complex consisting of six private suites, all different in size and shape. }} *{{sleep | name=Aria Suites | url=http://www.ariasuites.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860-28650 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Boutique hotel with a view of the volcano and Acrotiri. }} *{{sleep | name=Athina Suites | url=http://www.athinasuites.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 24910 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A short walk from downtown. Mounted on a rock top. Offers a panoramic view of the Caldera cliff and the volcano. }} * {{sleep | name=Cliff Side suites | alt= | url=http://www.cliffside.gr | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 22141 | tollfree= | fax=+30 22860 22187 | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=23 rooms and suites with all four-star conveniences. Respecting the Aegean Architectural style, the complex promotes the design and comfort of the locality, combined with modern colors. Includes on-the-edge-of-the-rim swimming pool with views of the caldera plus spa services and outdoor heated Jacuzzi. }} * {{sleep | name=El Greco Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.elgreco.com.gr | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 22052 | tollfree= | fax=+30 22860 24945 | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Mill Houses Suites | url=http://www.millhouses.gr | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2286027117 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2286025400 | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= The exterior architecture of Mill Houses Suites in harmony with the geological peculiarities of the landscape. }} * {{sleep | name=Panorama Hotel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2286022481 | tollfree= | fax=+30 2286023179 | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= The hotel on Caldera faces the sea and the volcanoes. 12 studios, one Greek villa and one honeymoon suite. }} * {{sleep | name=Sofia Hotel | url=http://www.sofiahotelsantorini.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Economy family-run hotel. }} *{{sleep | name=Summer Time Pension | url=http://www.summertime-santorini.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 24313 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€83-110 | checkin= | checkout= | content=100 m from the centre of the town. }} *{{sleep | name=Villa Evgenia | url=http://www.villaevgenia.gr/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 22575 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€70-120 | checkin= | checkout= | content=300 m from town centre. }} *{{sleep | name=Anteliz Hotel and Suites | url=http://www.anteliz.gr | email= | address=Markou Nomikou 89 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 28842 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Four-star hotel on the top of the cliff ridge along the Caldera path, overlooking the Caldera Gulf, the volcano and the settlements of Oia and Akrotiri. }} *{{sleep | name=Villa Stella | url=http://www.santorini-villastella.gr/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 23517 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€35-40 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Family-owned hotel in a quiet district 7 minutes from the centre. Clean rooms with sea views. }} *{{sleep | name=Afrodete Hotel | url=http://www.afrodete-santorini.com/ | email= | address=Firostefani | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 22161 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=from €30-100 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Afrodete Hotel offer seaview rooms 500 m from Fira Town. }} *{{sleep | name=Dana Villas | url=http://www.danavillas.net | email=dana@otenet.gr | address=Firostefani | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 22566 | tollfree= | fax=+30 22860 22985 | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Santorini Luxury Villas | url=http://www.santoriniluxuryvilla.com | email=info@santoriniluxuryvilla.com | address=Firostefani | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 22050, +30 22860 23520 | tollfree= | fax=+30 22860 22142 | hours= | price=from €365 | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Above Blue Suites | alt= | url=http://aboveblue.gr/ | email= | address=Imerovigli | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 2286 024644 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A selection of different size and type of suites and a villa in one of the nicest spots of town. }} *{{sleep | name=Avianto Suites | url=http://www.aviantosuites.com/ | email= | address=Imerovigli | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 28866 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=On the cliffs of Imerovigli, offering breathtaking views over the caldera, Oia and the volcano. }} *{{sleep | name=Dreams Luxury Suites | url=http://www.dreamsluxurysuites.com/ | email= | address=Imerovigli | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 28866 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=An all-suite hotel. }} *{{sleep | name=Katerina's Castle Hotel | url=http://www.hotel-katerina.gr/ | email= | address=Imerovigli | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 23111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Located on a cliff. }} *{{sleep | name=Santorini Princess | url=http://www.santoriniprincess.gr | email= | address=Imerovigli | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+30 22860 25870 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=13:30 | checkout=11:30 | content=Luxury spa hotel with caldera view. }} * {{sleep | name=Villa Thiranthemis Santorini | alt=Thiranthemis Hotel in Fira Santorini | url=https://www.villa-thiranthemis.com/ | email=info@villa-thiranthemis.com | address=Caldera Fira Santorini | lat=36.3959 | long=25.4382 | directions= | phone=+30 2286024856 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=11:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-06-24 | content=Outdoor swimming pool and caldera-view rooms. }} ==Stay safe== ==Connect== * Easy internet cafe with 20 PCs minimum charge €1. Next to taxi station. A nice and calm internet cafe. They also have Wi-Fi with 2Mbps bandwidth. You will find it from the orange colour. ==Go next== * [[Imerovigli]] * [[Oia_(Greece)|Oia]] * [[Pyrgos]] * [[Emporio]] * [[Akrotiri]] {{geo|36.4167|25.4333}} {{IsPartOf|Santorini}} {{outlinecity}} b5budgnn89ab35shktbofxduxrsz9gk 0 11909 5090929 4982000 2025-07-10T15:41:08Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ event > 2025 5090929 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Fort William banner View from West.jpg|caption=Fort William seen from across Loch Linnhe}} {{otheruses}} '''Fort William''' is a town at the foot of [[The Great Glen and Strathspey | the Great Glen]], on the west coast of the Scottish Highlands. It's the main transport, commercial and visitor hub for the area: its attractions include Ben Nevis, Nevis Range ski resort, the Caledonian Canal, and "The Jacobite" steam train. The town in 2021 had a population of 5630. A couple of miles north is a secondary built-up area, with the villages of Inverlochy, Caol, Bannavie and Corpach totalling another 5000 population; their facilities are also described on this page. == Understand == [[File:Banavie rail bridge and Neptune's Staircase - geograph.org.uk - 3101799.jpg | thumb | 300px | Neptune's Staircase on the Caledonian Canal ]] The Great Glen is a long fault line slicing diagonally across the Highlands. Inland along its valley are a string of freshwater lakes: Loch Lochy, Loch Oich and Loch Ness. The southwest end of the valley is flooded by the sea to create a fjord, Loch Linnhe. The glen has always been a natural transport route, which nervous London rulers sought to control by a series of fortresses: Fort George and Inverness Castle at the northeast end, Fort Augustus in the middle, and Fort William at the southwest end. In 1745-46 the Jacobites smashed their way down this line of dominos and besieged Fort William, but it not only stood firm, but launched counter-attacks, a tough Hanoverian thistle in the rebels' backsides. In the aftermath the kilt was banned and the Highlanders repressed, then the kilt and Highland customs were re-invented for genteel tastes in the late Georgian era as Scottish tourism was born. The town's original settlement and medieval castle were a couple of miles north at Inverlochy, but gravitated south to the new fort and harbour. In 1822 the Caledonian Canal was built through the Great Glen: interminable wars with France made the Channel too dangerous, but rounding Cape Wrath in the far north was also dangerous, hence the need for a navigable short cut. The post-Napoleonic peace made the canal redundant from the outset but it's now used by pleasure craft. The railway arrived in 1894 and tourist traffic boomed. '''Tourist information''' is at [https://www.visitscotland.com/info/services/fort-william-icentre-p333001 Fort William iCentre], 15 High St, open daily 9:30AM-5PM. == Get in == {{Mapframe | 56.817 | -5.110 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=15 }} === By plane === * '''[[Inverness]] Airport''' ({{IATA|INV}}) is the closest, but since you need to hire a car anyway it's better to use Glasgow Airport. * '''[[Glasgow]] Airport''' ({{IATA|GLA}}) has a better choice of flights and fares. Turn west onto M8 and cross the Erskine Bridge to join A82 northwards past Loch Lomond; maybe 2 hr 30 min to drive. * '''[[Oban]] Airport''' ({{IATA|OBN}}) has flights to the Hebrides (effectively a flying school bus) but no connection to the mainland air network. === By train === Trains from [[Glasgow]] Queen Street take four hours via [[Dumbarton]], [[Helensburgh]], Arrochar & [[Tarbet]] (for Loch Lomond), [[Crianlarich]] (where a portion divides for Oban) and Spean Bridge. There are five daytime trains M-Sa and two on Sunday. They continue west on the scenic [[West Highland Line]] to [[Glenfinnan]], [[Arisaig]] and [[Mallaig]], for ferries to Skye. The [https://www.sleeper.scot/ Caledonian Highland Sleeper] runs Su-F from [[London Euston]], departing around 9:30PM to arrive at 10AM. (It divides at Edinburgh for Aberdeen and Inverness.) The southbound train leaves around 8PM (Sunday 7PM) to reach Euston towards 08:00. No trains on Saturday night. Compartments have two berths and are sold like hotel rooms: you pay extra for single occupancy, and you won't be sharing with a stranger. Tickets can be booked at any UK mainline railway station or online: the one-way fare in 2023 is £270 for two adults. You can also just use the sitting saloon, single £75. Pricing is dynamic with weekends costing more, if there are berths available. Booking is open 12 months ahead: you need to print out your e-ticket to present on boarding. You can also use the sleeper as a day-train between Dumbarton and Fort William, but it doesn't pick up in Glasgow. Alternatively, take the Lowland Sleeper from Euston near midnight to arrive Glasgow Queen Street at 7:20AM, then the 8:20AM for Fort William (arriving midday) and Mallaig. Returning south by that route you need to be on the 5:30PM from Fort William to Queen Street, arriving 9:30PM and waiting two hours (there are plenty of pubs nearby) for the southbound sleeper, reaching Euston by 7AM. There's no railway along the Great Glen between Fort William and Inverness, or directly south to Oban, so take the bus. {{marker | name=Fort William railway station | type=go | wikidata=Q2264654 }} is north side of town centre. It has a staffed ticket office and machines, a waiting room, cafe and toilets. There is step-free access to the terminus platform: through-trains reverse out. The original station of 1894 was south, which meant railway tracks split the town centre. In 1975 the track was curtailed and the station relocated here, and the main road was re-aligned to become the new impediment and eyesore. '''Banavie''' and '''Corpach''' are platform halts on the West Highland Railway towards Mallaig that might be more convenient for the head of Loch Linnhe and start of the Caledonian Canal. === By bus === Citylink buses 914, 915 and 916 run four times daily from [[Glasgow]] Buchanan Street to Fort William, taking 3 hours. Two of them continue via Spean Bridge and Laggan to Portree on [[Skye]]. Citylink Bus 918 runs twice M-Sa to [[Oban]], 90 min. Bus 919 takes two hours to [[Inverness]] via the Great Glen and Loch Ness, with six M-Sa and two on Sunday. Between Fort William and Mallaig, Shiel Bus 500 runs four times a day M-F, once on Saturday and Sunday, 90 min. Sit on the right for views of Glenfinnan Viaduct. Shiel Buses also connect the small villages of Kilchoan, Acharacle, Lochaline and Strontian on the Arnamurchan peninsula. These are timed for the school and shopping run, with just one bus (M-Sa) in the morning coming into Fort William, and one bus going back in the afternoon; see [[Ardnamurchan]] for details. Shiel Bus N44 runs six times a day (M-F) to Corran ferry pier, Ballachulish, [[Glencoe]] and Kinlochleven. == Get around == The centre of Fort William is small enough to get around on foot. Shiel Bus N41 runs between Fort William and Roy Bridge, via Torlundy, Nevis Range Ski Centre and Spean Bridge. It runs 7 times a day M-Sa. Twice a day (at around 9AM and 17:00) year round, it extends from Fort William to Glen Nevis Youth Hostel. May to Oct it's supplemented by Bus N42, which run 6 times daily to the Youth Hostel, with three buses extending to the Lower Falls. Bike is ideal for exploring along the glens and Caledonian Canal. [https://www.offbeatbikes.co.uk Off Beat Bikes] on High St (Tu-Su 10AM-5:30PM) do hires and repairs and can suggest trails. Taxi firms are [https://www.turbotaxi.co.uk/ Turbo]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (+44 7803 728080), [https://www.looking4taxi.com/ Looking 4 Taxi]{{Dead link|date=December 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (+44 7488 247730), [https://www.nevistaxi.co.uk/ Nevis] ({{phone|+44 1397 703000}}), [https://www.lochabertaxis.com Lochaber] ({{phone|+44 1397 706070}}), [https://viaduct-taxis.business.site/ Viaduct]{{Dead link|date=June 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (+44 7398 644463), [https://www.egorstaxis.co.uk/ Egor's] (+44 7473 921992), [https://scottaxi.com/ Scot Taxi] (+44 7928 086205), [https://www.bobtaittaxis.co.uk/ Bob Tait] ({{phone|+44 1397 704331}}), [http://www.greyhound-taxis.co.uk/ Greyhound] ({{phone|+44 1397 705050}}), [https://www.jacobite-taxis.com/ Jacobite] ({{phone|+44 1397 719639}}) and [https://www.dmtaxis.co.uk/ DM Taxis] (+44 7869 811223). Many of them offer tours or long distance transfers, for instance to and from the airport. == See == * {{marker | name=The Fort | type=see | lat=56.8214 | long=-5.1076 }} remains only as a sea wall near the breakwater, with views over Loch Linnhe. Town centre behind it is Victorian, a miniature Inverness, but suffers from poor planning, with the busy A82 cutting it off from the prom. * {{see | name=West Highland Museum | alt= | url=https://www.westhighlandmuseum.org.uk | email=info@westhighlandmuseum.org.uk | address=Cameron Square PH33 6AJ | lat=56.8177 | long=-5.1111 | directions= | phone=+44 1397 702169 | tollfree= | hours=May-Sep: M-F 10AM-5PM, Sa 10:30AM-1:30PM; Oct-Mar: M-F 10AM-4PM, Sa 10:30AM-1:30PM | price=Donation | wikidata=Q16903086 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Regional history from earliest times through Jacobites and Victorians to the present. }} * {{see | name=Inverlochy Castle | alt= | url=https://www.inverlochycastle.co.uk/ | email= | address= | lat=56.8326 | long=-5.0810 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | wikidata=Q17825866 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=A ruined medieval castle built in the 1270s, and patched up but little altered since. It comprises a quadrangular courtyard, 31 m by 27 m, surrounded by a sturdy curtain wall with round towers at each corner. The largest, Comyn Tower, was the castle keep. The three sides not facing the river were protected by a water-filled ditch, and both entrances were defended by a portcullis. The ruins are unstable and fenced off for safety. }} * '''The Caledonian Canal''' is a coast-to-coast channel built by Thomas Telford in the early 19th century. It uses the string of lochs and rivers along the Great Glen, so it's 60 miles long but only 22 miles are man-made. Commercially and strategically it was obsolete as soon as it was completed in 1822, as shipping had outgrown it, and round-the-coast navigation was much safer since the end of the Napoleonic wars. It fell into disrepair but was rehabilitated for pleasure craft. At the south end, it starts from Loch Linnhe by a short ladder of locks at Corpach. * {{marker | name=Neptune's Staircase | type=see | lat=56.8440 | long=-5.0970 }} is a ladder of eight locks a mile inland at Banavie, great for photos, but a long afternoon's work to navigate. * '''Lock Lochy''' is the first natural water encountered on the canal, a nine mile reach to Laggan where the ascent continues. (So yes, these could be called the Loch Lochy locks, which, when locke....) Another straight run connects Loch Oich, the highest part of the system. (Higher still, Loch Garry feeds water to the canal via the River Garry, but that river isn't navigable.) From Loch Oich the canal continues northeast, descending by another ladder of locks into [[Loch Ness]], the magnificent natural channel at the heart of the canal system. At its north end, canal and River Ness flow down from Dochgarroch Weir towards the sea at Inverness. * {{see | name=Treasures of the Earth | alt= | url=https://treasuresoftheearth.co.uk/ | email= | address=Corpach PH33 7JL | lat= | long= | directions=by canal outlet | phone=+44 1397 772283 | tollfree= | hours=Daily Nov-Feb 10AM-4PM, Mar-Jun & Sep Oct to 5PM, Jul Aug to 6PM | price=Adult £8, child £6 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Small geology museum and shop, with a collection of crystals, gemstones and fossils. }} * '''Lochaber Geopark''' in High St (M-Sa 10AM-4PM) promotes awareness and organises trips and study around the region's weird geology. This played a key role in shaping 19th- and 20th-century understanding of how the world's landscapes were constructed: it was realised that the Caledonian Mountains once stretched through Svalbard and Greenland into the Appalachians, until sundered by the new Atlantic Ocean. The geopark stretches from Rannoch Moor in the south to Glen Garry in the north, and from Loch Laggan in the east to the Small Isles out west. For instance 20 miles away are the "Roads of Glen Roy": this glen above the Spean valley has three long parallel ledges on the hillside that look man-made. They were in fact cut by ice grinding along the shore of a vanished lake, which lay at different levels during a cold period after the last Ice Age when arctic conditions returned. == Do == [[File:Ben Nevis summit plateau - geograph.org.uk - 3341482.jpg | thumb | 300px | Ben Nevis rises east of town ]] * {{do | name=Highland Cinema | alt= | url=https://www.highlandcinema.co.uk | email=info@highlandcinema.co.uk | address=Cameron Square PH33 6AJ | lat= | long= | directions=by museum | phone=+44 1397 609696 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Independent cinema and café bar with two cinema theatres, and café bar seating up to 84. }} * {{do | name=Three Wise Monkeys Climbing Wall | alt= | url=https://threewisemonkeysclimbing.com/ | email= | address=Fassifern Road PH33 6QX | lat=56.8169 | long=-5.1111 | directions= | phone=+44 1397 600200 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 10AM-9PM, Sa Su 10AM-5PM | price=Adult day pass £12, child £9 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Indoor climbing (roped) and bouldering (unroped) walls in an old church. }} * '''Golf:''' [https://fortwilliamgolfclub.com/ Fort William GC] is on A83 north of Lochy Bridge. White tees 6217 yards, par 72. * '''Shinty:''' Fort William play in Mowi Premiership, the top tier. Their home ground is the sports complex behind the Premier Inn. Kilmallie play in National Division the second tier, at Caol Canal Parks. Lochaber also play in National Division at Spean Bridge. The playing season is April-Oct. * '''Long-distance hikes:''' the [[West Highland Way]] stretches from Milngavie near Glasgow to Fort William, and the [[Great Glen Way]] continues north to Inverness. They're usually done in stages in that direction, south to north, so the sun and the weather are on your back. But invest in good maps and plan your own itinerary. * '''Climb [[Ben Nevis]]''', Britain's highest mountain at 1345 m (4413 feet). This is no small task as you start from almost sea level. The usual route is the "Mountain Track", starting from the visitor centre in Glen Nevis: this is an arduous slog and scramble in good weather, and in winter it demands technical mountaineering skills. Other routes such as the CMD Arete are even more testing. * '''The Mamores''' are the ridge above Glen Nevis, west and south of the river. They're opposite Ben Nevis so there's better views of it than on the Track, but far fewer climbers. The Mamores are crossed by the most northerly section of the West Highland Way, a 15-mile hike from Kinlochleven. * '''Ski or snowboard at''' {{do | name=Nevis Range | alt= | url=https://www.nevisrange.co.uk | email= | address=Torlundy PH33 6SQ | lat=56.852 | long=-5 | directions=off A82 four miles north of town | phone=+44 1397 705825 | tollfree= | hours=late Dec-Apr | price=Adult lift pass £42, child or senior £27 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Nevis Range ski resort is on Aonach Mor, the mountain just north of Ben Nevis. From the car park (£5 / day) take the gondola to "Snowgoose" at 650 m. Chairlifts and tows lead to the summit plateau around 1221 m, with most pistes along this stretch. Just east are some hairy steep descents. Weather and snow conditions are highly variable, always check ahead on the resort website. }} [[File:Nevis Range - geograph.org.uk - 858030.jpg | thumb | 300px | Skiing on Nevis Range ]] * '''Nevis Range gondola''' runs year round (day ticket £13) and is the access to other activities. It has six-seater enclosed cabins, dogs welcome but must be leashed on the mountain. Three easy hill walks loop from the Snowgoose station. Climbers ascending Ben Nevis by the North Face route often start by riding up the gondola. There are cross country and downhill mountain bike courses, and the UCI mountain bike World Cup is often held here in early June. * '''[[Ben Nevis#Glen Nevis | Glen Nevis]]''' is worth exploring, and not just as an access point for Ben Nevis, or as a fallback if you called off a climb. Drive up the south-bank road past the visitor centre and youth hostel to the Lower Falls (bus N42 comes this far in summer) and onward to the final car park "Nevis Gorge" (free). A trail leads up the gorge to the cable bridge, if you dare teeter across. * {{marker | name=Steall Falls | type=do | wikidata=Q38441 }} are 200 yards above the cable bridge. ''An Steall Bàn'' means "The White Spout" in Gaelic; it's Scotland's second-highest waterfall, with a 120-m (390-ft) drop in three tiers. The walk from the car park and back is 4 miles, say 2 hours. An alternative route up Ben Nevis branches north from here, and trails south into the Mamores. [[File:Jacobite on Glenfinnan Viaduct 2 20211024.jpg | thumb | 300px | ''The Jacobite'' ]] * '''[https://westcoastrailways.co.uk/jacobite/steam-train-trip The Jacobite]''' is a heritage steam train running daily Apr-Oct between Fort William and [[Mallaig]]. It's a six-hour excursion (depart 10:15AM, return by 4PM) staying two hours in Mallaig, and in 2023 an adult trip was £57 standard, £89 first class; child £33 / £63. May-Sep there's also an afternoon train (12:50-6:50PM), so you could have 4½ hours in Mallaig, time for a boat trip. Trains also stop at [[Glenfinnan]] for the obligatory photo of the viaduct, and by request at [[Arisaig]]. The morning excursion connects with the Caledonian Sleeper from London. * '''[https://www.lochaberlive.com/ Lochaber Live]''' is a music festival on the shinty grounds, next held 12-14 Sep 2025. * '''Royal National Mòd''' is a festival of Celtic / Gaelic literature, music and culture. The next Mòd is hosted by Fort William and Lochabers 10-18 Oct 2025. == Buy == * The main supermarket is Morrisons next to the railway station, open M-Sa 7AM-10PM, Su 8AM-8PM. Lidl is just east and there's Tesco Metro on High Street and Spar on Grange Rd south end of town. * Lots of touristy-trappy shops along High Street, regaling the coach parties with Scottish dresses, knitware, souvenirs and whisky. They can offer nick-nacks in just about any clan tartan you've heard of, and probably a few that you haven't. == Eat == * '''High Street''' has a string of cheap and cheerful places, mostly open daily. * '''The Bistro''' is within Alexandra Hotel facing the railway station, open daily 12:00-21:00. * {{eat | name=Crannog at Garrison West | alt= | url=https://www.garrisonwest.co.uk/ | email= | address=4 Cameron Square PH33 6AJ | lat= | long= | directions=by museum and cinema | phone=+44 1397 701873 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu 5-9PM; W-Su noon-2:30PM, 5-9PM | price= | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Great seafood, classic pub fare done well. Their branch on town pier has closed. }} * '''[https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/pubs/all-pubs/scotland/highland/the-great-glen-fort-william The Great Glen]''' is a JD Wetherspoon within Travelodge on High St, open Su-Th 8AM-midnight, F Sa 8AM-1AM. * '''[https://www.limetreefortwilliam.co.uk/ Lime Tree]''' on Achintore Rd has good dining. It's also a hotel, but guests have suffered short-notice cancellations. * {{eat | name=Spice Tandoori | alt= | url= | email= | address=141 High St, PH33 6EA | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=daily 4PM-10:30PM | price=mains around £20, minimum charge of £14, takeaways are cheaper than restaurant | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-06-29 | content=standard Indian curries, done really well. }} == Drink == [[File:Ben Nevis Distillery (24745033148).jpg | thumb | 300px | Ben Nevis Distillery ]] : Drinking is not allowed on the street. * {{drink | name=Grog & Gruel | alt= | url=https://grogandgruel.co.uk/ | email= | address=66 High Street PH33 6AD | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1397 705078 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Good selection of real ales. }} * {{drink | name=Volunteer Arms | alt= | url= | email= | address=47 High Street PH33 6DH | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1397 702344 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=A good laugh, decent beer, and well-priced spirits. Live sports and dance floor. }} * '''[https://www.bennevisdistillery.com/ Ben Nevis Distillery]''' produces single malt whisky at Lochy Bridge (junction of A82 and A830 near the castle). It's open M-F 9:30AM-5PM, plus Jun-Aug Sa 10AM-6PM, Su noon-6PM, tours available. * '''Brewery:''' [https://www.glenspeanbrewing.com/ Glen Spean Brewery] is above Spean Bridge and offers tours. == Sleep == === Budget === ==== In Fort William ==== * {{sleep | name=Bank Street Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.bankstreetlodge.co.uk/ | email= | address=Bank Street PH33 6AY | lat=56.8181 | long=-5.1084 | directions= | phone=+44 1397 700070 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £80 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=This is now a small hotel and no longer run as a hostel. }} * {{sleep | name=Travelodge | alt= | url=https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/565/Fort-William-hotel | email= | address=High Street PH33 6DX | lat=56.8163 | long=-5.1136 | directions=SW end of pedestrianised High St. | phone=+44 871 984 6419 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £80 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Decent chain choice, acceptable for what you pay. }} ==== Out of town ==== [[File:Inverlochy castle front 20211023.jpg | thumb | 300px | Inverlochy Castle: don't book a room here ]] * {{sleep | name=Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park | alt= | url=https://www.glen-nevis.co.uk | email= | address=Glen Nevis PH33 6SX | lat=56.8045 | long=-5.0742 | directions=up glen 2 miles from town | phone=+44 1397 702191 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, car £3, hook-up £5 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Open mid-Mar to Oct, this has caravan pitches, static caravans, pods, campsite, and sometimes a lot of midges. Restaurant on site is open May-Oct. }} * {{sleep | name=Glen Nevis Youth Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.hostellingscotland.org.uk/hostels/glen-nevis/ | email= | address=Glen Nevis PH33 6SY | lat= | long= | directions=south end of caravan park | phone=+44 1397 702336 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm £22-31.50 ppn, rooms from £64 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Two miles from town, but convenient for Ben Nevis and the West Highland Way. Clean friendly place. }} * {{sleep | name=Chase the Wild Goose Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.chasethewildgoosehostel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Banavie PH33 7LZ | lat=56.8467 | long=-5.0971 | directions=3 miles north of Fort William | phone=+44 7563 049068 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Backpackers’ hostel, providing accommodation for walkers, cyclists, people on activity holidays, families and groups, but no hen or stag parties. Dorms are only available for exclusive hire. }} === Mid-range === ==== In Fort William ==== * '''B&Bs''' are strung along A82 the main road south, petering out after 3 miles. * {{sleep | name=Premier Inn | alt= | url=https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/scotland/highland/fort-william/fort-william.html | email= | address=Airds Way PH33 6AN | lat= | long= | directions=off High St; cars enter via Camanachd Cres | phone=+44 333 777 7268 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £85 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Reliable chain hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Imperial Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.sgehotelgroup.com/imperial/ | email= | address=Fraser Square PH33 6DW | lat=56.8188 | long=-5.1107 | directions=on prom 100 m south of railway station | phone=+44 1397 702040 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £85 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Creaky old rooms but bright helpful staff. No lift, no pets. With restaurant, pizzeria & public bar. }} * {{sleep | name=St Anthonys | alt= | url=https://stanthonysfortwilliam.co.uk | email=welcome@stanthonysfortwilliam.co.uk | address=Argyll Road PH33 6LF | lat=56.8151 | long=-5.1106 | directions= | phone=+44 1397 705184 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Welcoming B&B on hill overlooking Loch Linnhe, open Apr-Sep. No pets or children under 13. }} ==== Out of town ==== [[File:Inverlochy Castle. - geograph.org.uk - 107767.jpg | thumb | 300px | Inverlochy Castle Hotel: don't fight battles here ]] * {{sleep | name=Ben Nevis Inn | alt= | url=https://www.ben-nevis-inn.co.uk/ | email= | address=Achintree Rd PH33 6TE | lat=56.8103 | long=-5.072 | directions=two miles up glen | phone=+44 1397 701227 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) £140 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=A great base camp for climbing Ben Nevis. No dorm, the former bunkhouse has been converted into separate rooms. Breakfast is self-catering, the restaurant is open daily Apr-Oct, Th-Su Nov-Mar. }} * {{sleep | name=Achintee Farm | alt= | url=http://www.achinteefarm.com/ | email=info@achinteefarm.com | address=Glen Nevis PH33 6TE | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Ben Nevis Inn | phone=+44 7497 082820 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=B&B open all year plus self-catering rooms, friendly knowledgeable host, great location at the foot of Ben Nevis. }} * {{sleep | name=The Corran | alt= | url=https://www.thecorran.net/ | email= | address= | lat=56.7212 | long=-5.2335 | directions=Corran ferry pier 8 miles south of Fort William | phone=+44 1855 821261 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Doubles (room only) £120 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Comfortable loch-side inn. Nowadays it's room-only serviced accommodation as the restaurant and bar are closed, and no reception. }} * {{sleep | name=Mansefield House | alt= | url=https://www.fortwilliamaccommodation.com/ | email=mansefield@btinternet.com | address=Hillview Drive, Corpach PH33 7LS | lat=56.8443 | long=-5.115 | directions= | phone=+44 1397 772262 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=B&B in former church manse, six rooms en suite. No children under 12. }} * {{sleep | name=The Moorings Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.moorings-fortwilliam.co.uk/ | email=reservations@moorings-fortwilliam.co.uk | address=Banavie PH33 7LY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1397 772797 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Small hotel with bistro by the canal ladder of locks. A bit run down, dog-friendly. }} * '''Spean Bridge''' is a village 11 miles north of Fort William, at the junction of A82 and A86, and with trains between Fort William and Glasgow. There's several accommodation choices here, the pick of them being [https://www.smiddyhouse.com Smiddy House]. === Splurge === * {{sleep | name=Inverlochy Castle hotel | alt= | url=https://www.inverlochycastlehotel.com/ | email=info@inverlochycastlehotel.com | address=Torlundy PH33 6SN | lat=56.8443 | long=-5.054 | directions=3 miles north of Fort William | phone=+44 1397 702177 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £450 | wikipedia=Inverlochy Castle Hotel | wikidata=Q6060140 | lastedit=2023-07-31 | content=Luxury country house hotel in a Baronial mansion built in 1863. A big splurge but most guests rate it well worth the money, some found the service and dining below par. }} == Connect == [[Image:Fort William Map.jpg | thumb | 200px | Highways around Fort William ]] As of July 2023, Fort William and its approach roads have 4G from all UK carriers. 5G has not reached this area. There is free internet access in the library on High Street. == Go next == * Fort William is the northern end of the 96-mile [[West Highland Way]] footpath from Milngavie north of Glasgow. Clearly, having just arrived, you'll be impatient to do two things: (i) ascend Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis; and (ii) set off on another long-distance hike, the 78-mile [[Great Glen Way]] to Inverness. Fortunately both these needs have been thoughtfully catered for. * The scenic Road to the Isles (A830) runs west from Fort William via [[Glenfinnan]] and [[Arisaig]] to [[Mallaig]], where ferries ply to Armadale on [[Skye]] and to the [[Small Isles]]. You can also use this route to reach the Ardnamurchan peninsula via Moidart. * However the usual route to [[Ardnamurchan]] is by the short car ferry crossing at Corran. Routes on the peninsula converge on Strontian. There's also a ferry for foot passengers and bicycles from Fort William town centre to Camusnagaul, connecting with buses on the other side. * Follow A82 north along [[Loch Ness]], via [[Fort Augustus]] and Urquhart Castle near [[Drumnadrochit]], to reach Inverness. * The road south to Glasgow runs through [[Glencoe]] with stunning views, louring mountains, and a ski centre. {{routebox | image1=UK road A82.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=S | majorl1=[[Glasgow]] | minorl1=[[Glencoe]] | directionr1=NE | minorr1=[[Fort Augustus]] | majorr1=[[Inverness]] }} {{geo|56.81689|-5.10963}} {{isPartOf|The Great Glen and Strathspey}} {{usablecity}} r28m3vb8mi1ighp933dkkbrbgsohzpp 0 12766 5090830 4654076 2025-07-10T13:40:51Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090830 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Giverny banner Bridge 1.jpg}} '''Giverny''' is a small [[France|French]] village 80 km to the north-west of the capital city [[Paris]], within the valley of the river Seine and the northern region of [[Upper Normandy]]. The village is best known as the rural retreat of the Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Most attractions are closed for winter (November-March). [[Image:Water-Lilies-and-Japanese-Bridge-(1897-1899)-Monet.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Painting by Claude Monet - Water Lily Pond with Japanese Bridge in Giverny]] ==Understand== Monet moved to Giverny in 1883 with his family, including his second wife and 8 children, living and painting here until his death in 1926. The village surroundings and the gardens of his house formed a great part of the inspiration and subject matter for his paintings. It was after the move to Giverny that Monet began his famous ''Séries'' of paintings, repeatedly rendering haystacks, cathedrals and waterlilies from his garden pond in his own unique Impressionist style. ==Get in== {{mapframe|49.0769|1.53|zoom=13}} ===By car=== Take the A13 from [[Paris]] to Bonnières, where you turn onto the D201 which takes you across the river Seine, through Bennecourt and about 4 km of countryside until you reach Giverny. Look for signs. ===By train=== Take the train from Paris Gare St-Lazare to Vernon (45 min; see [http://www.voyages-sncf.com SNCF]): then take a taxi, bus, or bicycle ({{EUR|6.50}} return ticket) to the village. The [http://giverny.org/transpor/ bus service] is timed to link with the train and a combined ticket can be obtained at Gare St-Lazare. When traveling alone, the combined train and bus tickets are the easiest choice. The bicycle can be rented from a cafe right outside the train station and is indicated by a sign. The rental fee is around {{EUR|12}} and the bike ride is about {{mi|4}} with a map provided by the cafe. ===By bus=== [http://giverny.org/tour/ Bus and minibus trips run from Paris to Giverny] as a half-day tour and to Giverny and Versailles as a full-day tour every day except Monday. ==See== It is always best to '''arrive early''' in Giverny in order to avoid the throngs of bus-driven tourists who arrive later in the morning and keep coming all day. [[Image:Monet_House.jpg|thumb|250px|Monet's House]] * {{see | name=Monet's House | alt=Fondation Claude Monet | url=http://www.fondation-monet.com/ | email= | address=84 rue Claude Monet | lat=49.0753489 | long=1.5337884 | directions= | phone=+33 232512821 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= April-October: daily 09:30-18:00 | price=€9 adults, $5 students, €4 disabled, under-7s free | wikidata=Q1473446| wikipedia=Fondation Monet in Giverny | content=The house is quietly eccentric and highly interesting in an Orient-influenced style, and includes Monet's collection of Japanese prints. There are no original Monet paintings on the site - the real drawcard, is the gardens around the house - the water garden with the Japanese bridge, weeping willows and waterlilies is now somewhat iconic. Monet's house has the obligatory gift-store attached, designed to help you part with your money in exchange for all manner of things Impressionist. [http://giverny.org/gardens/fcm/ticket/ e-tickets] can now be purchased online to avoid queuing. wheelchair access available }} * {{see | name=Natural Mechanical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.giverny.fr/informations/touristiques/le-musee-de-mecanique-naturelle/giverny-musee-de-mecanique-naturelle/ | email= | address=2 rue Blanche Hoschedé-Monet | lat=49.07730 | long=1.52981 | directions= | phone = +33 2 32 21 26 33 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Founded by the Guillemard brothers: Jean-Pierre, René and Gérard run restorations and exhibitions with the help of an enthusiasts team who devoted their time and known-how to the Patrimony preservation. The museum origin is a private collection of steam internal combustion engines; founded in 1955 by the Guillemard family. Former threshing entrepreneur and blacksmith Adolphe Guillemard has transmitted to his children his know-how and passion for the vintage mechanies. Along years, purchasing, donations of engines pile-up awaiting for the needed parts or just a time to restore. Since 1982 the number of collected items increased due to closing of workshops, factories or mills. The preservation of these engines was a rescue task, numbers of testimonials items already gone. In 1990 the collection found a home in the current location where the engines are in permanent display. Installation of the Carels 1908 diesel engine weighting 28 tons keep the team busy for months on overhauling and restoration; in 2003 it became the world's biggest old running diesel engine. }} ==Do== It is recommended that you take a guided tour to make the most of your visit to Claude Monet's house and garden at Giverny. If you are coming from Paris, you might wish to take [http://giverny.org/tour/ a bus or minibus tour] which provides a tour-guide. If you are coming on your own, you can book [http://giverny.org/guide/ a guided tour in English, French or German], offered every day, by appointment only. If you are feeling energetic, try hiking one of the nature trails that wind through the hills above Giverny. The panoramic views of the village, the Seine valley, and the neighboring town of Vernon are quite stunning to see unfold beneath you. Two of the area's trails start at a signboard behind the city hall, found just up Rue Blanche Hoschedé-Monet. Make sure you're wearing sturdy shoes or boots and are in relatively good shape, as some sections of the trails on the forested hillsides can be very challenging. Carrying water and insect repellent might also be a good idea, depending on the weather. Information on other scenic hiking trails can be found at the Tourist Bureau in neighboring Vernon. There is also a Tourist Office in Giverny, close to Monet's House. The nearby Forêt de Bizy is also a lovely place for a picnic or nature walk, and is a good way to get away from the crowds which sometime descend on Giverny. ==Eat== There is a small restaurant attached to Monet's House (beware tourist trap prices and overcrowding) and a few reasonable options in the village. A wider choice can be found in the surroundings. On a fine day, bringing a picnic lunch with you might be a better option - walk up out of the village along some of the small lanes for a change from the crowds. "La Musardière" is the only restaurant open in the village even during winter (2012-2013). ==Drink== ==Sleep== There are a number of bed & breakfasts and hotels in the village and surrounding area. There is probably not enough in Giverny, however, to warrant a night over. This village - or many others along the Seine valley nearby - could provide an ideal base for further exploration in [[Upper Normandy]]. *{{sleep | name=The Robins | alt=Les Rouges Gorges | url=http://givernyguesthouse.com/robin.htm | email= | address=6 rue aux Juifs | lat=49.078069 | long=1.520866 | directions=27620 Giverny | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€60-70 | checkin= | checkout= | content=The rustic style of the renovation - stones and exposed beams - and the vintage countryside decoration give these several-hundred-year-old cute little houses a Bohemian charm. In the summer you will have breakfast in the garden under the canopy of the bread oven. Dogs admitted. Open all year round. }} *{{sleep | name=Le Clos Fleuri | alt= | url=http://www.giverny-leclosfleuri.fr/ | email= | address=5 rue de la Dîme | lat=49.0763077 | long=1.5234464 | directions=27620 Giverny | phone=+33 2 32 21 36 51 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Situated near the church and just a few minutes walking distance from Monet's gardens and the Museum of Impressionisms, you will find Danielle and Claude's home, surrounded by a large magnificent garden, where you will find a haven of peace and tranquillity. Danielle speaks fluent English having spent many years in Australia. }} *{{sleep | name=The Roger's Theater | url=http://givernyguesthouse.com/rogers.htm | email= | address=29 route de Falaise | lat= | long= | directions=27620 Giverny | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Eric and Christelle Carriere are well known for their artistic activities: Eric founded the Festival de Giverny and has managed it for 10 years, Christelle is an actress and theater teacher. Their headquarter at Giverny is called the Roger's Theater. On the basement a small romantic theater is used for rehearsal and shows for a few people. On the second floor Eric and Christelle have organised 3 guests rooms and 2 bathrooms to accommodate their artists friends and anyone looking for a simple bed and breakfast in Giverny. }} In Giverny area there are also 4-, 3- and 2-star hotels]. If you are just stopping at Giverny on your way, [http://giverny-impression.com/hotel/ a map of Giverny area Hotels] and one of [http://giverny-impression.com/bed_breakfast/ Giverny area B&B] may help you find the perfect location for your stop. ==Go next== In order to complete the Monet experience, travellers might like to visit the neighbouring town of [http://giverny.org/vernon/ Vernon], ([http://giverny.org/castles/ castle], medieval streets, museum with paintings by Giverny artists, including Claude Monet, 17th-19th c. mansion) or journey on / back to [[Paris]], or to [[Rouen]] and the Seine Valley, where they can see further examples of his work at various venues. {{routebox | image1=Autoroute française 13.svg | imagesize1=50 | directionl1=NW | majorl1=[[Rouen]] | minorl1= | directionr1=SE | minorr1=[[Boulogne-Billancourt]] | majorr1=[[Paris]] | caption1=Autoroute de Normandie }} {{usablecity}} {{geo|49.0833|1.5333}} {{IsPartOf|Eure}} nxgeo5rfayjh4pqtrsoggj3unvpjedl 0 13107 5091055 5089815 2025-07-10T20:48:58Z Bluecoordinationfine 2327039 See change on Södra Kungsleden article. 5091055 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|GR 10 WV banner.jpg|caption=View from GR 10, near Souriche, looking towards the Tourmalet, valley of Barèges, France}} The '''GR 10''' is one of the paths and trails of the extensive [[Grande Randonnée]] (or GR) network. It crosses [[France]], from the Mediterranean coast to the Atlantic coast, and runs almost entirely through the [[Pyrenees]]. While the trail is in France, much of it is near, or even on, the border with [[Spain]]. The trail can be walked in either direction, though some suggest that the west-east route is easier in the beginning, as it is both cooler and less steep that the corresponding start heading west; this may be an advantage to those not fully in shape. == Understand == [[File:Lac d'Oo (22).jpg|thumb|Lac d'Oo]] Moving from west to east, the trail begins in [[Hendaye]] on the Atlantic Ocean, and finishes on the Mediterranean, in the small town of [[Banyuls sur Mer]]. Hikers will usually be able to make it to a [[France#Guesthouses and holiday rentals|gîte]] or small town every other night, and quite frequently every night. Expected time to complete the trail is around 6-7 weeks, though the majority of people only hike sections of it. == Prepare == The trail is fairly well marked with painted marks on rocks, trees, telephone poles, and even houses, walls, and street signs. If you haven’t seen a waymark for 100 metres, you’ve likely strayed off the trail. Retrace your steps to the last marker and check your route. It is not realistic to navigate using the markers alone. A trail guide, at minimum, or a topologic map is required. Sunburn is a particular problem, and clothing such as long sleeved shirts and long pants should be worn as they protect from the sun, scratching branches and insects. Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat are highly desirable. === Equipment === One of the advantages of the GR 10 is that it can be hiked with minimal gear, as one can eat dinner and breakfast almost every day at the gîtes. Additionally the hiker can sleep outdoors on clear nights and pay for a bed in a gîte in inclement weather. On nights that only shelters (which usually have no food or staff) are available, pre-purchased food can be eaten. If one plans to eat at gîtes and buy food from supermarkets that can be eaten without cooking, the absolute minimal gear in the summer months is: * Sleeping bag or sleep sheet, and a mat for comfort. * Goretex jacket and fleece or similar for cold or wet weather * Long-sleeved shirt and pants * Short-sleeved shirt and shorts (including shorts you can wear for swimming) * Sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat * Adequate footwear. Anything less than hiking boots may prove insufficient. * Bottles for at least two litres of water, and a purification method for treating water from streams. * Toiletries and a [[Travel health kit|medical kit]] Additionally, consider a rain jacket or fleece top for wet or cold weather. If you plan to forgo the comforts and delicious food of the gites and hotels, also bring: * Tent * [[Outdoor cooking|Cooking gear]] and food A note on footwear: some four fifths of the hikers wear full hiking boots and thick socks. While running sneakers may suffice (and Choco-style sandals may work for a few days), your risk of injury is higher, and much of the trail involves hopping around on possibly wet and sharp rocks. Choose conservatively, depending on the length of your hike and your experience. ==Get in== Accessing the start and end points is straightforward via public transport. The GR 10 begins at Hendaye Plage, the main beach in [[Hendaye]]. Hendaye is well-connected by the French railway network. {{marker|type=go|name=Hendaye station|wikidata=Q2310209}} is the main international train station, with services from major French cities including Paris by TGV. From here, you can take a local bus to the start of the trail. Buses run from the main train station to the beach area where the trail begins. {{marker|type=go|name=Gare des Deux-Jumeaux|wikidata=Q2802667}} is a smaller station closer to the beach and the official starting point of the GR 10. It is served by local TER trains. From here, it is a short walk to the trailhead. The GR 10 concludes in the Mediterranean town of [[Banyuls-sur-Mer]]. {{marker|type=go|name=Banyuls-sur-Mer railway station|wikidata=Q2243839}} is located in the center of the town and is served by TER regional trains, which connect to major hubs like [[Perpignan]]. From the station, it is a short walk to the town center and the seafront where the trail officially ends. == Walk == {{Mapframe|lat=42.68287|long=0.56837|width=full|height=360|zoom=7}} {{mapshape|type=geoline|stroke=#000000|stroke-width=3}} === Hendaye-Plage - Olhette === ; Distance : 21.9 km ; Duration : 7¾ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1010 m The hike starts from the 3 km long {{marker|type=see|name=Hendaye Beach|wikidata=Q20947149}}. This is below the old casino, now known as Résidence Croisière. A {{marker|type=buy|name=Decathlon|lat=43.36843635018845|long=-1.7798332063655435}} store geared towards watersports is available for last minute purchases, such as gas cannisters. The trail passes through Hendaye, leaving town, and pases by {{Marker|type=city|name=Biriatou|wikidata=Q196871}}, which conveniently has public toilets available. After about 3 hr you reach the summit of {{marker|type=see|name=Xoldokogaina|wikidata=Q20492776}}. The high point is at Mandale on the Spanish border, with an altitude of 530 m. From here, the path descends past {{Marker|type=see|name=Redoute de la Baïonette|lat=43.3092|long=-1.70330}}, a fortification near Mandale, located by modern border marker 9, to the Col d'Ibardin, a journey of 4¼ hr. The col is a popular spot for French shoppers due to cheap alcohol and tobacco. The trail continues via Col des Poiriers and Col des Joncs before reaching {{Marker|type=city|name=Olhette|lat=43.3360|long=-1.6661}}. === Olhette - Ainhoa === ; Distance : 21.1 km ; Duration : 6½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 730 m The steepest climb comes right at the beginning. For most of the route, you'll be on forest trails and, after Sare, quiet paved country roads. The trail initially ascends on a good path to the Col des Trois Fontaines, a journey of 1½ hr. A shelter is located 300 m from the col. The path then descends to the Col de St-Ignace, where the valley station of the cog railway to La Rhune is found. It continues to {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Sare]]|wikidata=Q274155}}, bringing the total walking time to 2¾ hr. Sare is a local transport hub, an outdoor swimming pool is available, and it is listed as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. The stage ends in {{Marker|type=city|name=Ainhoa|wikidata=Q212962}}, which is also one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. From Col des Trois Fontaines you can ascend La Rhune, which has an altitude of 905 m. The ascent can be made either by cog railway, a trip that takes 35 minutes, or on foot. The walk is a 3 km journey that takes 1¼ hr and involves an ascent and descent of 300 m. The prehistoric {{Marker|type=see|name=Grottes de Sare|wikidata=Q3117280}} can be visited with prior reservation made through the local municipality or online. These caves are closed annually for one month following Epiphany. This stage is part of the [[European long-distance path E9|European long-distance trail E9]]. === Ainhoa - Bidarray === ; Distance : 21.7 km ; Duration : 8½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 880 m This is a difficult stage, with little shade at the start and a particularly steep, rocky descent near the end. After about 40 minutes, you will reach the old cemetery at an altitude of 389 m. It is located beside the {{Marker|type=see|name=Chapelle Notre Dame de l'Aubépine|wikidata=Q12253854}}. You can also find traditional Basque hilarri gravestones here. The path then continues over the Col des Trois-Croix, reaching an altitude of 510 m after about 1½ hr from the start. Ferme Esteben is a good place to rest. You will reach this gîte d'étape with a bar-restaurant after about 3 hr, at an altitude of 580 m. The trail continues near the border, past Boundary Stone 77, partly on a paved road. At Col des Veaux, at an altitude of 550 m, you can take a 300-m detour into Spain to visit a venta, which is a small inn or shop. From here, the trail climbs to the Col de Méhatche, which is at an altitude of 716 m and takes about 3¾ hr to reach. The descent past Boundary Stones 82 and 83 is secured with cables. From Col de Méhatche, you can ascend Artzamendi, which has a summit at 926 m and is easily identified by the radar dome on top. The nearby {{Marker|type=see|name=Grotte le Saint-que-Sue|alt=Harpeko Saindua|lat=43.26526|long=-1.38904}} can also be visited. Just before reaching {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Bidarray]]|wikidata=Q746221}}, a bypass trail offers a shortcut to the next stage. This route is also ideal for peak baggers, as it gives access to several summits. These include Errebi, located between the chapel and Col des Trois-Croix, and Atxulegi, which requires a 15-minute detour on the way to Col des Trois-Croix. When the weather is good, you can also access Mont Bizkayluze at 701 m and Gorospil at 691 m. === Bidarray - Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry === ; Distance : 18.5 km ; Duration : 7½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1250 m This southward stage is demanding, especially due to the complete lack of water sources along the ascent. After passing the Iparla Ridge at an altitude of 950 m, the trail reaches over 1000 m for the first time on the way to the summit. It then continues along the ridge to the Pic de Tutulia before descending to the Col d'Harrieta. This point is reached after 3¾ hr and sits at an altitude of 808 m. The main trail continues across the Buztanzelhay summit, which is reached in 4¾ hr at an altitude of 1029 m. The trail then leads down to the col of the same name at 843 m. Here, the GR-10 turns left and descends steeply. The path crosses the D949 road several times; this road leads from the village to the ventas on the Spanish border at the Col d'Ispéguy. You can also reach this col via the ridge, a distance of 1½ km from Col Buztanzelhay. If you want to skip entering {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry]]|wikidata=Q279252}}, a village situated at 162 m, you can join the next stage earlier at the Nive des Aldudes. This location can be reached in 6½ hr and is at an altitude of 162 m. In the village park, there is a picnic area, and a supermarket stocks gas cartridges. Locals play Rebot, a type of pelota, on two courts. The Château d'Etxauz is not open to the public. The village hosts a traditional folklore festival known as Nafarroaren Eguna on the last Sunday in April. The Nive des Aldudes valley occasionally experiences flooding and mudslides. === Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry - Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port === ; Distance : 19.2 km ; Duration : 7 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 990 m This stage runs mostly on gravel paths and farm tracks. About an hour into the walk, there is an optional detour at Col d'Aharza for a 35-minute climb to Oylarandoy, where a hermitage built in 1706 stands. The GR-10 heads south to the Col d'Aharza, which is at an altitude of 734 m and reached in 2 hr. A water source is available at the col. The trail then turns east and circles around {{Marker|type=see|name=Munhoa|wikidata=Q3327853}}. This summit is at 1023 m and is reached after a total of 3½ hr. The climb is fully exposed to the sun. The descent begins on the right-hand side. {{Marker|name=[[Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port]]|wikidata=Q270294|type=city}} lies at an altitude of 170 m and is where three of the four French pilgrimage routes converge before entering Spain. From here, it is possible to continue directly onto the Camino de Santiago towards Roncesvalles. === Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port - Gîte d'étape Kaskoleta === ; Distance : 16.2 km ; Duration : 5½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 870 m There are no supply points or public transport on this stage, but the walking is relatively easy. In the village of {{Marker|type=city|name=Çaro|wikidata=Q842635}}, at an altitude of 242 m, there is a public fountain next to the town hall. If you choose to end the day early after 3¾ hr in {{Marker|type=city|name=Estérençuby|wikidata=Q842724}}, be aware that this adds an extra 400 m of ascent to the next day's stage. The village lies at an altitude of 231 m and offers two accommodation options. === Gîte d'étape Kaskoleta - Gîte d'étape Chalets d'Iraty === ; Distance : 20.7 km ; Duration : 8 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1410 m This stage is simple but offers little shade. The trail first climbs toward the Col on Ithurramburu, which is at an altitude of 820 m. It then continues ascending to just below {{Marker|type=see|name=Occabe|alt=Okabe|wikidata=Q17417892}} at 1456 m. On the Occabe plateau, 26 Neolithic stone circles have been found. Known as ''harrespil'' in Basque, they are believed to have been used for cremation rites. A good rest stop, reached after 4¾ hr, is the upscale {{Marker|type=city|name=Iraty Sorho|url=|lat=43.037117198|long=-1.07515398244}}. Across the stream at Le Kayolar, similar accommodation is available. From here, the trail turns sharply right after 100 m and continues uphill for another 6-7 km to the stage destination, a final ascent of 300 m. === Gîte d'étape Chalets d'Iraty - Logibar === ; Distance : 16.4 km ; Duration : 6 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 440 m In bad weather, the route along the west side of the {{Marker|type=see|name=Pic des Escaliers|wikidata=Q31645205}}, which has an altitude of 1423 m, is not recommended. There are two alternative routes, but both are poorly marked. At the Ugatzé Ridge, the trail skirts the peak rather than summiting it. To avoid the steep descent from Pic des Escaliers, stay on the road for about 600 m after the start, then turn off after 2½ km to reach Col Ugatzé. A short side trip allows you to summit Arthanolatzégagnia, which requires an additional 35 minutes for the ascent and descent. For several hr, trail markings are sparse. After some time following mule tracks, you'll reach a road crossing at Beloscare, which is at an altitude of 1173 m and is reached after 3 hr. {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Auberge Logibar|wikidata=Q12262540}} marks the end of the stage, but you can also continue 2 km further to {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Larrau]]|wikidata=Q608335}}, which offers three accommodation options and a campground. In bad weather, an easier alternative is to follow the paved road from Iraty directly to Larrau for a gentler descent. === Logibar - Sainte-Engrâce === ; Distance : 26.3 km ; Duration : 9¾ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1420 m This stage leads through spectacular gorges. Follow signs to the Gorges d'Holzarté and ascend the trail to the 70 m long suspension bridge, a walk of 50 minutes. The bridge spans the dramatic Ruisseau de Olhadubi gorge 150 m above the ground. On the far side, the trail continues uphill. After 2 hr, you reach the Olhadubi stream, which is a possible spot for a refreshing dip. Nearby is the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cayolar d'Olhadubi|wikidata=Q135244323}}, reached via a side path from the bridge. It serves as an emergency shelter with space for 4-5 people. Continuing uphill, you'll reach the Abarrakia farm after just over 3 hr. The path then winds between farms, eventually reaching the point where the GR-10 turns sharply to the right, a journey of 4½ hr from the start. After about 5 hr, you'll reach the Col d'Anhaou at an altitude of 1383 m. From here, energetic hikers can summit nearby peaks such as Izeyto at 1464 m or Sarimendi at 1484 m. The stage ends at {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Sainte-Engrâce]]|wikidata=Q135238699}}. Sainte-Engrâce is home to a Romanesque church from the 11th century. From the village, a 9-km side trip with an ascent of 840 m and descent of 135 m takes you to the vast La Verna cave, which has guided tours. A detour south from the restaurant leads into the wild and romantic Gorges de Kakuetta. The trail is known to be very steep and slippery in places. === Sainte-Engrâce - La Pierre Saint-Martin === ; Distance : 11.6 km ; Duration : 4¾ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1200 m The trail climbs steadily from Sainte-Engrâce into the limestone highlands of the Pierre-Saint-Martin massif, marking the transition into more alpine terrain. You ascend to the Col de la Pierre-St-Martin at an altitude of 1760 m, which marks the border with Spain. Since 1373, the Tributo de las Tres Vacas, a cross-border tribute of three cows, has been held here every July 13 to settle grazing rights between the two valleys. A small shop at the parking area sells goat cheese. A ski area lies just over the border on the Spanish side. There is also a small shelter near Boundary Marker 62. An optional 15-minute detour leads to the summit of Soum de Lèche, which has an altitude of 1839 m. The Grotte de la Verna, a massive cave chamber accessible by pre-booked guided tour, lies 1 km off the main trail. From the pass, descend to the first switchback, then turn right off the main track. The trail passes under two chairlifts and continues along the northern flank of the Pic d'Arlas. When you spot three large concrete water tanks, descend to {{Marker|name=La Pierre Saint-Martin|wikidata=Q3211628|type=city}}. === La Pierre Saint-Martin - Lescun === ; Distance : 15 km ; Duration : 6¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 400 m This is a challenging stage, but the scenery is magnificent. Several rocky mountain paths are equipped with cables for safety. The highest point is the Pas de l'Osque at an altitude of 1922 m, which requires a head for heights. The trail continues to the Pas d'Azuns at 1873 m, reached in about 2¾ hr. A good first rest stop with water is the spring near the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane du Cap de la Baitch|wikidata=Q135236037}}, located at 1689 m and reached after about 3 hr. In wet weather, descending to {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Lescun]]|wikidata=Q179737}} at an altitude of 895 m via the road is recommended, as the GR-10 becomes muddy and difficult to navigate. === Lescun - Etsaut === ; Distance : 16 km ; Duration : 6½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 850 m The trail begins easily through pastoral countryside, then enters forested terrain, passing the {{marker|type=sleep|long=-0.61911879259|url=|name=Cottage and camping Accous Lhers-Lescun|lat=42.911348576}} after about 2 hr. It continues climbing to the Col de Barrancq at 1601 m, a journey of roughly 3¾ hr. From the col, a side trip leads to the summit of Pic de Labigouer at 2175 m, which is a 3 hr round trip. Lower down in the Parc d'Orce, within the commune of {{Marker|type=city|name=Borçe|wikidata=Q840474}}, reached in about 5¾ hr, lives the majority of the region's approximately 50 brown bears. The stage ends in {{Marker|type=city|name=Etsaut|wikidata=Q765829}}, at an altitude of 597 m. This village is located on the N-134 and is served by the Canfranc-Oloron-Sainte-Marie bus line. Its former train station now houses the Pyrenees National Park visitor center. Just outside Etsaut, the {{Marker|type=see|name=Fort du Portalet|wikidata=Q3078387}} clings dramatically to the cliffs in two tiers, spanning a height difference of 150 m. === Etsaut - Gabas === ; Distance : 24 km ; Duration : 9½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1640 m The trail begins with the dramatic Chemin de la Mâture, a path carved directly into the rock face which is not passable in icy or snowy conditions. After about 2 hr, the route reaches Grange Perry at an altitude of 1210 m. Shortly after, hikers should keep to the left path. The trail continues to the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de la Baigt de Saint-Cours|wikidata=Q135244393}} at 1560 m, a shelter reserved for shepherds from June to September, arriving after about 3½ hr at the border. Approximately 4 hr into the hike, you will cross a stream on a bridge, which serves as the last reliable water source before the high pass. The highest point of the stage is the Col d'Ayous, reached at an elevation of 2185 m after 5½ hr or more. On its eastern slope lie the scenic Ayous Lakes and the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge d'Ayous|wikidata=Q120225055}}, an ideal place to break this long stage. The Col d'Ayous also marks a significant transition point between valleys, leading from the Chemin de la Mâture and Baigt de Sencours in the Aspe Valley down to Bious-Artigues at 1540 m in the Ossau Valley. This area, located 6.5 km from the pass with a descent of 764 m, offers pony rides and canoe rentals on the eastern shore of the lake. From the pass, several options are available. One can summit Pic d'Ayous, which adds about 30 minutes for the ascent and descent. Alternatively, a 6 km detour leads to Lac Bersau, with a longer 9 km alternative possible via the Vallon d'Aas. From the lake, the descent follows the D231 road, which features switchbacks that can be shortcut. Please note that the Refuge de Gabas is permanently closed. The stage concludes in {{Marker|name=Gabas|wikidata=Q5515276|type=city}}. The village offers two accommodations and a bar, but it does not have a grocery store. Gabas is situated on the 806/806bis bus route, which runs from Col de Portalet to Laruns, a distance of 15 km. === Gabas - Gourette === ; Distance : 23 km ; Duration : 10 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1600 m This is a long and difficult stage where water is scarce and a head for heights is required for the Corniche des Alhas section. Snow may linger on the trail well into summer, which can make following the waymarks challenging. The trail begins by following the D934 road to the Artouste dam before climbing through forest paths. Some parts of this route, known as the Corniche des Alhas, traverse ledges carved into the cliff-side, which are equipped with fixed cables for safety. The path reaches a bridge near the Gave de Soussouéou waterfalls at an elevation of 1145 m. From here, a steep trail leads up to Houn de Mouscabarous at 1361 m and continues its ascent to Petite Arcizette at 2293 m. Snow can persist at these elevations until July. The route then brings you to the Hourquette d'Arre at 2465 m. It is important to note that the path shown on some maps leading to the Géougue d'Arre at 2619 m is a mountaineering route and not a standard hiking trail. The GR10 does not go directly to Lac d'Uzious. Instead, it heads in a roughly north-northeasterly direction across a plateau before turning east to begin its descent. You will eventually reach Lac d'Anglas, situated at 2068 m. From the lake, the trail continues along its outflow before branching off to the right. The stage concludes in the ski resort of {{Marker|type=city|name=Gourette|wikidata=Q1540224}}, located at an altitude of 1350 m. The resort has two supermarkets, and gas cartridges are available for purchase at Intersport. Travelers should be aware that Gourette is mostly closed outside of the main tourist season. During the season, it is served by Bus 806, which runs from Parking Gourette Nord to Eaux-Bonnes, Laruns, and Pau. === Gourette - Arrens-Marsous === ; Distance : 15 km ; Duration : 5¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 900 m This is a relatively easy stage that crosses two mountain passes. The first is the Col de Tortes at an elevation of 1799 m, reached after about 1¾ hr. Later, after crossing the D918, a road popular with cyclists but too busy to follow safely, the trail reaches the Col de Saucède at 1525 m after approximately 3 hr and twenty minutes. From Col de Saucède, hikers can also make a short detour to the summit of Pointe de Surgatte at 1805 m, a round trip that takes between 90 and 100 minutes. Near the Pont de Lapadé, you have the option to either cross the Gave d'Arrens or continue down into the village of {{Marker|type=city|name=Arrens-Marsous|wikidata=Q1110649}}. The village provides tourist information and public toilets at the Maison Val d'Azun, which can be contacted at +33 5 62 97 49 49. Arrens-Marsous also features an outdoor swimming pool and hosts Eldorado, a hiking festival held for four days in late May every two years. Points of interest in the area include the Romanesque Saint-Pierre Church, with parts dating back to the year 1200, and the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Pouey-Laün, a pilgrimage chapel located 600 meters south along the D105. The entire area is part of both the Natura 2000 conservation network, specifically the Gabizos and the Arrens Valley sites, and lies within the core zone of the Pyrenees National Park. === Arrens-Marsous - Refuge d'Ilhéou === ; Distance : 20 km ; Duration : 7½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1600 m From Arrens-Marsous, located 3.5 km from the previous endpoint, hikers can choose between two routes: the official GR10 or the more scenic GR de Pays Tour du Val d'Azun. The latter option is slightly shorter but involves more climbing. Both trails rejoin shortly before reaching the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Gîte d'étape les Viellettes|lat=42.9220|long=-0.1819}}, after about 2¼ of hiking. Approximately 700 meters further on is the simple tent site, La Pose, which is open from May to September. The official GR10 route passes through {{Marker|type=city|name=Estaing|wikidata=Q589628}}. The commune includes the three Natura 2000 protected areas of Gaves de Pau et de Cauterets, Moun Né de Cauterets; Pic de Cabaliros; and Péguère, Barbat, Cambalès. From Estaing, the trail officially enters the core zone of the Pyrenees National Park. The path then ascends toward Lac d'Estaing. From the lake, the trail climbs steeply through a forest to the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Arriousec|wikidata=Q135244408}} at 1400 m, a journey of about 4 hr. Another hour of uphill hiking takes you past the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Barbat|wikidata=Q135244445}}, which are located to the left of the path. A final climb brings you to the Col d'Ilhéou at an elevation of 2242 m, reached after 6 hr or more. Just five minutes below the pass, an alternative route becomes available. By turning left, you can reach the Crête du Lys, where the Courbet cable car operates during July and August. This provides access to the Cauterets-Le Lys ski resort, which features a summer luge track, or offers a direct descent into the town of Cauterets. To continue on foot, descend from the col to the stream near the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabanes de Arras|wikidata=Q135244419}}, a walk of six and a half to seven hr. At this point, turn right and cross two more streams. The path then descends to Lac d'Ilhéou. On the lake's northern shore is the staffed {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge d'Ilhéou|wikidata=Q109042809}}. A designated bivouac area, or *aire de bivouac*, is located about ten minutes further south along the lake. === Refuge d'Ilhéou - Cauterets === ; Distance : 8 km ; Duration : 2½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 75 This is a leisurely downhill walk that brings you gently back to civilization in {{Marker|type=city|name=Cauterets|url=|wikidata=Q366962}}. Cauterets flourished during the late 19th and early 20th centuries thanks to its thermal springs. The municipality operates two spas: Thermes de César in the village center and Thermes des Griffons in nearby La Raillère. === Cauterets - Refuge des Oulètes de Gaube === ; Distance : 15 km ; Duration : 6¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1400 m This demanding stage begins in Cauterets by taking the path located behind the Thermes de César and heading south. After approximately 1¼ hr, you will reach the hamlet of La Raillère, situated at an altitude of 1044 m. This small settlement offers restaurants and a sulfur spa. From La Raillère, cross the bridge and continue your ascent into the Val de Jéret, a scenic valley section where you will pass several waterfalls. After about 3 hr from the start, the trail leads to the Hôtellerie du Pont d'Espagne. From this point, descend briefly along the road before turning right to begin the climb into the valley that leads towards Lac de Gaube. The lake, at an elevation of 1725 m, is reached after a total of 4 hr. As you continue from the lake toward {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge des Oulètes de Gaube|wikidata=Q109042828}}, the path crosses the stream three times via bridges. === Refuge des Oulètes de Gaube - Chalet-refuge la Grange de Holle === ; Distance : 21 km ; Duration : 7½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 800 m About 50 meters from the refuge, the trail embarks on a steady 1 hr climb over rocky terrain. After about 65 minutes, you will reach a fork where you should stay to the right and continue ascending. The trail reaches the Hourquette d'Ossoue, which at 2734 m marks the highest point on the entire GR10. Even in mid-summer, snow often lingers in this area. A 20-minute descent from the pass leads to the {{Marker|type=sleep|name= Refuge Baysselance |wikidata= Q3423105}}. From here, attempting an ascent of Vignemale via the Glacier d'Ossoue is an undertaking suitable only for experienced mountaineers. From the pass, the route heads south-east, passing the Grottes de Bellevue at 2420 m after about 3 hr. These are artificial caves carved in 1880 by the explorer Henry Russell. The trail then descends steeply to a stream and follows it into a boulder field fed by glacial melt from the Glacier d'Ossoue. The descent into the valley is challenging, involving frequent climbs around cliffs and waterfalls. After 5 hr or more, you enter the Vallée de la Canau and pass the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Sausse Dessus|wikidata=Q135244425}}. The next hour continues with more ups and downs until you reach the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane des Tousaus|wikidata=Q135244495}} after a total of 6¾ hr. From there, cross a final ridge to reach the D923 road and then descend to the stage endpoint at the Chalet-refuge la Grange de Holle. If you require more extensive accommodation or supplies, continue to the main village of {{Marker|name=Gavarnie|wikidata=Q917894|type=city}}. From Gavarnie, you can take a popular day trip into the famed Cirque de Gavarnie, which is also accessible by bus from Luz-Saint-Sauveur. For experienced climbers, it is also possible to ascend Le Taillon, which stands at 3146 m, from this area. === Chalet-refuge la Grange de Holle - Luz-Saint-Sauveur === ; Distance : 26 km ; Duration : 9½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 900 m Starting the stage from Gavarnie village via the D128 road, instead of from the previous refuge, shortens the route by about 3 km, saving approximately 1 hr of hiking time. The trail first leads to the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Gîte d'étape le Saugué|url=|lat=42.7686|long=-0.0059}}, which is located on the Plateau Soula de Saugue and is reached after about 1¾ hr. This gîte provides a good option for breaking up the stage. The route then winds northward, passing the Soum Haut after about 3¾ hr, before descending gradually along the western slope of the Gavarnie Valley. After a total of five and three-quarter to 6 hr, you will reach the D921 road. From there, cross the Gave de Gavarnie via the Pont d'Esdouroucats and ascend again to a path that runs above the highway. The trail enters {{Marker|type=city|name=Luz-Saint-Sauveur|wikidata=Q35721506}} from the south via the Pont Napoléon, a dramatic bridge crossing the gorge at an altitude of 755 m, arriving after about 7½ hr. Luz-Saint-Sauveur is a well-equipped mountain town with numerous amenities. === Luz-Saint-Sauveur - Barèges === ; Distance : 12 km ; Duration : 5 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 800 m Though relatively short, this stage begins with a long and steep ascent. The main stage's highest point is the Ruisseau de Bolou, reached at an altitude of 1460 m. During the descent, hikers can stop for refreshments at the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de la Glère|wikidata=Q120230391}}. The stage ends in {{Marker|type=city|name=Barèges|wikidata=Q632058}}, a spa and mountain village composed of the hamlets of Artigalas and Cazaous. The local river, the Bastan, is referred to as the ''gave''. === Barèges - Cabane de l'Oule === ; Distance : 23 km ; Duration : 9½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1300 m The trail begins by climbing above the road toward the ski station at Tournaboup, which takes about 1 hr. It then veers south and starts a steady ascent. Good stopping points along the way include the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Aygues-Cluses|wikidata=Q135244451}} and, 10 km further on, the Chalet-Hôtel d'Orédon. This stage enters the Néouvielle Nature Reserve, a protected area where dogs and wild camping are strictly forbidden. The trail reaches its highest point at the Col de Madamète, situated at an elevation of 2509 m. From the col, the path descends between the alpine lakes of {{Marker|type=see|name=Lac d'Aumar|wikidata=Q3215322}} and Lac d'Aubert, arriving at this scenic spot after about 5¾ hr at an altitude of 2190 m. Here, the trail splits into two variants. The first option continues along the shores of Lac d'Aumar. The second choice is a detour that heads south to the tip of Lac d'Aubert and then proceeds along the northern shores of Les Laguettes and Lac d'Orédon. This latter point, reached after 6¾ hr at an elevation of 1856 m, offers camping and a hotel at its southern end. Both routes eventually rejoin at the Cap d'Estoudou pass, which sits at 2260 m and is immediately followed by a steep descent. From the pasths, a short detour allows for an ascent of Soump de Montpelat, involving a climb of 214 m. The main path continues its steep downhill course to Lac de l'Oule, a journey of 7¾ hr or more, arriving at an altitude of 1821 m. From the lake, a right turn leads directly to {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de l'Oule|wikidata=Q135250080}}. === Cabane de l'Oule - Vielle-Aure === ; Distance : 18 km ; Duration : 6½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 460 m From the refuge, the route follows the western shore of Lac de l'Oule. After approximately 1½ hr, the main trail turns directly east to begin its climb towards the Col de Portet. At this junction, a signed variant is also available, leading to the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de Bastan|wikidata=Q135244489}}. Continuing on the main path, you will reach the Col de Portet, at an elevation of 2215 m, after about 2¾ hr. From the col, the trail continues eastward, descending gently at first to the Pla de Castillon. The descent then becomes steeper as it leads down to the D918 road, reached after 4½ hr or more. The path continues onward to the stage endpoint in {{Marker|type=city|name=Vielle-Aure|wikidata=Q1323900}}. This historic village features two notable Romanesque churches, both dating to the 12th century: Saint-Barthélemy and Saint-Pierre, which is located in the Agos neighbourhood. For a broader range of shops, accommodations, and services, the larger and livelier town of [[Saint-Lary-Soulan]] is located just 1 km to the south. === Vielle-Aure - Germ === ; Distance : 13 km ; Duration : 5¾ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1170 m This is a straightforward, though poorly marked, stage that runs parallel to the D225 road up to the Col d'Azet, which is situated at an altitude of 1600 m. From the pass, the route continues down to {{Marker|type=city|name=Loudenvielle|wikidata=Q987650}}. It is worth noting that during the Pyrenees Bike Festival in early September, the entire area is typically overrun with mountain bikers. The final 3 km of the stage involve a climb of about 220 m up to the hamlet of {{Marker|name=Germ|wikidata=Q1094205|type=city}}, which rests at an altitude of 1339 m. === Germ - Lac d'Oô === ; Distance : 16 km ; Duration : 7½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1200 m This stage and the one that follows are strenuous. They can be divided into thirds with overnight stops at the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Granges d'Astau |lat=42.7635|long=0.5024}} and the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge d'Espingo |wikidata=Q104413940}} at 1967 m. Camping is permitted near the lake. The area around the refuge is also the starting point for a challenging mountaineering loop over the Pic des Spijeoles at 3008 m and the Grand Quayrat at 3060 m, descending past Lac du Portillon at 2571 m and the glacial Lac Glacé d'Oô at 2664 m. After the initial climb out of Germ, the main trail enters the Val d'Aube. The path follows the river on its left-hand side. After about 1¾ hr, the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Ourtiga|wikidata=Q135244454}}, at an elevation of 1610 m, can be seen 250 meters away across the valley. The route then ascends to the Couret d'Esquierry at 2131 m, a journey of 3½ hr, where you cross into the Haute-Garonne department. 4 hr into the stage, you will reach the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane d'Esquierry|wikidata=Q135244457}}. From there, the path follows the D76 road down to the Granges d'Astau and an auberge at 1139 m, arriving after about 5 hr. In July and August, a morning bus runs up to this point from Luchon and returns in the evening. The stage ends at {{Marker|type=see|name=Lac d'Oô|wikidata=Q3215352}}, a scenic 42-hectare lake situated at an altitude of 1507 m. The lake is part of the Natura 2000 reserve Vallées du Lis, de la Pique et d'Oô and has been renowned since the 19th century for its spectacular waterfall, making it a popular destination. Due to its protected status, camping, swimming, and dogs are not permitted in the immediate area. The {{Marker|type=sleep|name= Refuge du Lac d'Oô |wikidata= Q120234040}} can be found on the lake shore. === Lac d'Oô - Bagnères-de-Luchon === ; Distance : 21 km ; Duration : 9¼ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1130 m The trail becomes more difficult and features several rocky scree sections. The path skirts the northern slopes of Hourquette des Hounts-Secs, which has an elevation of 2275 m. From this area, a recommended optional detour involves a 15-minute ascent each way to the summit of Cap de Bassiéret. The main trail continues over the Col de la Coume de Bourg, reached at 2272 m after 4¾ hr or more. Snow may persist on this pass well into the summer. From the col, two additional summit detours are possible: a 45-minute round trip to the north leads to Pic Céciré, while a 40-minute round trip to the south takes you to Subescale. After 5½ hr, you will arrive at {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Superbagnères|wikidata=Q844809}}, a mountain hotel situated at 1802 m. This establishment primarily serves the ski area and is only open during the summer months of July and August. While it offers meals and lodging, be aware that prices are high. The massive, historic building can also be reached by a {{Marker|type=see|name=gondola lift|lat=42.7879|long=0.5908}} from Luchon, which replaced an old cog railway. If you choose to descend on foot, be prepared for a steep drop of 1200 m to reach the stage's endpoint, {{Marker|name=Bagnères-de-Luchon|wikidata=Q238393|type=city}}. This spa town marks the end of the central Pyrenean segment of the GR10. From here, regular bus services run to Montréjeau, where you can connect by train to Toulouse. === Bagnères-de-Luchon - Artigue === ; Distance : 8 km ; Duration : 3 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 600 m From the church in Luchon, the trail begins by heading left along the footpath beside the L'One river, crossing the road bridge that leads toward Juzet-de-Luchon. As an optional detour from this path, you can visit the {{Marker|name=Cascade Juzet-de-Luchon|wikidata= Q135191106 |type=see}} waterfall. The main trail continues onward through the village of Sode to the day's highest point, which is also the stage destination: the village of {{Marker|name=Artigue|wikidata=Q1088729|type=city}}, situated at an altitude of 1230 m. === Artigue - Fos === ; Distance : 21 km ; Duration : 8½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1100 m This stage begins with a steady climb of over 1000 m, the first half of which is on a gravel track. After approximately 1¼ hr, you will reach the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de Saunères|wikidata=Q135244461}}, a basic mountain shelter at an altitude of 1660 m. Around 1 hr later, the trail arrives at the Col de Peyrehitte at 1947 m. The route continues along an exposed ridge that circles the Pic de Bacanère, which stands at 2193 m and is reached after 3 hr. This section passes by border markers 402 through 404. After reaching the Col d'Aou at 2093 m in about 3½ hr, the trail begins a gradual descent across open alpine meadows. Potable water is available at the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Artigue|wikidata=Q135244467}}, which you will reach after 5 hr. An alternative route, which was the former path of the GR10, is also possible from here. You can divert to the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Artiguessans|wikidata=Q135244482}}, descend steeply to the Ruisseau de la Batch, and then climb back up to rejoin the current GR10. The main trail winds down gently through a series of switchbacks, eventually crossing a road bridge into the village of {{Marker|name=Fos|wikidata=Q1349025|type=city}}. The village is situated at an altitude of 544 m and has weekday bus service to Melles and Saint-Gaudens, where railway connections to Pau and Toulouse are available. === Fos - Refuge de l'Étang d'Araing === ; Distance : 18 km ; Duration : 8 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1700 m It is a good idea to stock up on supplies in the village of {{Marker|name=[[Melles]]|wikidata=Q1616421|type=city}}, which you will reach after about 45 minutes of walking. While passing through, be sure to check out the local {{Marker|name=botanical garden|wikidata= Q3162431 |type=see}}. From Melles, a narrow road leads uphill to the last farmhouse at Labach, a journey of about 2¼ hr. The next 2 hr or more are spent climbing steadily, mostly through forested terrain. After approximately 5 hr, you will reach the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane d'Uls|wikidata=Q135244485}} shelter. The path continues uphill from there to the Pic du Pas du Bouc, which sits at an elevation of 2170 m and is reached after 6 hr. From this point, the {{Marker|type=see|name=Pic de Crabère|wikidata=Q3382364}} at 2629 m can be climbed in a round-trip of about 90 minutes. Hikers should be aware that brown bears have been reintroduced to this area. The highest point of the day is the Col d'Auéran at an altitude of 2176 m. This pass also marks the border crossing into the Ariège department. From the col, it is a quick descent to the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de l'Étang|wikidata=Q3423195}}. === Refuge de l'Étang d'Araing - Eylie-d'en-Haut === ; Distance : 8 km ; Duration : 4 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 300 m From the lake and refuge, the trail climbs for about 1 hr to reach the Serre d'Araing at an elevation of 2221 m. As an optional detour from here, you can summit the Pic de l'Har at 2424 m, which is a 50-minute round trip. The descent into the valley follows faintly marked trails that run to the left of the power lines. Along the way, you will encounter remnants of former lead mining operations. After approximately 2¾ hr of descending, you will cross a bridge and arrive in {{Marker|name=Eylie d'en Haut|wikidata=Q134078264|type=city}}. === Eylie-d'en-Haut - Ayer === ; Distance : 17 km ; Duration : 8¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1600 m This is a strenuous stage with no food or lodging options along the way. The trail starts by crossing the Lez river, then turns sharply left and begins a climb through open terrain. After about 50 minutes, you will cross a stream and then ascend through a forest for just over 1 hr. In the autumn, these woods are full of blueberries, which are a favourite food of the brown bears that were reintroduced to this region in the 1990s. At a stone shelter located at an altitude of 1660 m, reached after about 2½ hr, the trail forks. The GR10 continues to the right, leading up to the Col de l'Arech at 1802 m, a point reached after 3 hr. From the col, the path turns left. Several detours are available from here, including an ascent to Tuc de Cagonilles at 2196 m, an 80-minute round trip, or a more challenging 3 hr round trip to the Mail de Bulard at 2750 m. After a short ridge walk from the col, the trail descends to the shepherd's hut, {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Arech|wikidata=Q135244262}}, at 1638 m, arriving after about 3½ hr. From here, follow the access track downward, then branch left to descend a steep, gorse-covered slope. 4 hr into the stage, you will reach a stream. About 40 minutes later, the ruins of Flouquet, at an elevation of 1680 m, will come into view. The path continues to {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de Besset|wikidata=Q135244266}} at 1540 m, reached after 6 hr or more, and then ascends again for 45 minutes to {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Clot du Lac|wikidata=Q135244295}} at 1821 m, a 7 hr journey in total. Passing the huts of {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane du Trapech du Milieu|wikidata=Q135244302}}, at 1540 m, and {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de l'Artigue|wikidata=Q135244305}}, you finally arrive at {{Marker|name=Ayer|lat=42.8308|long=1.0140737696|type=city}}. The surrounding Mont Valier massif is a protected area and a point of interest for birdwatchers. It hosts a variety of mountain bird species, including rare birds of prey, bearded vultures, and alpine species such as ptarmigans, black grouse, and capercaillie. === Ayer - Esbintz === ; Distance : 18 km ; Duration : 9¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1350 m This is a demanding stage with significant Cumulative elevation gain and loss. The trail climbs from Maison du Valier, following the high northern slopes along a series of ridges. It passes over Cap de Lauses at 1892 m, Pic de Crabère at 1925 m, and the Col d'Auédole at 1730 m. After more than seven hr of hiking, you will arrive at the destination, {{Marker|type=city|lat=42.85332|long=1.14584|name=Esbintz}}. === Esbintz - Refuge d'Aula === ; Distance : 19 km ; Duration : 6¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1200 m This stage and the one that follows offer spectacular scenery in good weather. The trail begins in Esbintz and follows the D817 road for the first 2 km to Borde de Galy. The trail continues mostly downhill through the countryside, crossing the Pont du Salat to reach {{Marker|type=city|wikidata= Q135236168 |name=Moulin Lauga}}, at an altitude of 550 m, after about 2 hr, continuing towards {{Marker|type=sleep|wikidata= Q135236171 |name= Refuge d'Aula}} === Refuge d'Aula - Rouze === ; Distance : 16 km ; Duration : 5 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 700 m From the Refuge d'Aula, the trail begins with a steep but manageable 1½ hr ascent to the Bouche d'Aula, which sits at an elevation of 1998 m. This is followed by a descent to the Étang d'Areau, which is about 100 m lower. From the east side of the lake, the Pic des Aymesses can be climbed, reaching a summit of 2036 m. A farm road then leads down toward the hamlet of Faup, with several shortcuts available along the switchbacks, such as the one near the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane pastorale d'Arreau|wikidata=Q135244513}}. After about 2¼ hr, you will arrive slightly below the Col de Pause at 1527 m, where there is a parking area. The {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Rigaux Philippe campsite|lat=42.78997920829053|long=1.178432115744275}} lies just below Faup. From Faup, the route descends along the D708 road in the direction of {{Marker|name=Couflens|wikidata=Q1142090|type=city}}. However, before reaching the junction with the D3, the trail crosses a bridge and climbs on the opposite slope to the Gîte de Rouze d'Ustou. === Rouze - Saint-Lizier-d'Ustou === ; Distance : 8.4 km ; Duration : 4 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 800 m From the gîte, follow the stream uphill for approximately 1¾ hr to reach the Col de la Serre du Cot at an altitude of 1546 m. From the pass, several optional side trips are possible. To the south, you can ascend the Pic de la Tese at 2255 m, a round trip that takes about 3 hr. To the north, a shorter 40-minute round trip leads to the summit of Tuc de Peyre Mensongère at 1711 m. From the pass, the main trail descends to the left onto a forest path, passing a few ruined farmhouses along the way. Eventually, the route reaches the D38 road and leads into the village of {{Marker|type=city|name=Saint-Lizier-d'Ustou|wikidata=Q1362897}}. === Saint-Lizier-d'Ustou - Aulus-les-Bains === ; Distance : 23 km ; Duration : 9 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1400 m The hike begins at the southern end of Saint-Lizier. After crossing a pedestrian bridge, the trail climbs southeast to the Col de Fitté, a former ski area at an altitude of 1387 m. From there, it continues along the right side of the slope. An alternative route begins in {{Marker|type=city|name=Bidous|wikidata= Q135236176}}; it follows the Alet river south and then climbs steeply for over 2 hr to reach the Col de Fitté, where it rejoins the GR10. The main trail then curves around the southwest side of the Picou de la Mire at 1741 m and reaches the Col d'Escots at 1618 m after about three and three-quarter hr. Afterwards, the path continues with ascents and descents along steep slopes until it reaches the Ruisseau de Fouillet valley after about 4½ hr. The Jasse du Fouillet crossing, at an elevation of 1170 m, is reached after at least 5 hr. For a shorter option, hikers can follow the yellow-red waymarks of the Tour du Val du Garbet. This path leads to the D8F road and directly into Aulus-les-Bains, taking about 7 hr from Saint-Lizier. The main GR10 route continues toward the plateau of Souliou and the Pic du Mont Rouge at 1600 m. A side trip to Étang de Guzet offers a possible bivouac site. The trail then descends toward the Ruisseau d'Ars at 1485 m, crosses a bridge, and continues its downward course. After a second bridge crossing, reached after 8½ hr, the path becomes easier. A final bridge, the Pont de la Mouline, crosses the Garbet River just before the trail enters {{Marker|type=city|name=Aulus-les-Bains|wikidata=Q1082493|url=}}. === Aulus-les-Bains - Refuge des Étangs de Bassiès === ; Distance : 11 km ; Duration : 5 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1200 m The route climbs out of Aulus-les-Bains to the Port de Saleix, where you will find the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de Carol|wikidata=Q135236243}}. From this point, the ascent becomes steeper. The following section of the trail leading to the Port de Bassiès is demanding but offers rewarding scenery. Hikers should be aware that this area lies within the Mont-Calme nature reserve, where camping is strictly prohibited. === Refuge des Étangs de Bassiès - Marc === ; Distance : 17,3 km ; Duration : 5¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1385 ; Elevation loss : ↧ 1385 From the refuge, the GR10 leads southeast along a slightly rocky trail for just over 3 km, following a chain of lakes. At the outflow of the last lake, the Étang d'Escalès, the trail bends to the right. The trail eventually makes a sharp turn southward. From an aqueduct at 1160 m, reached after about two and a quarter hr, the route maintains an elevation just below 1200 m for around 4 km. It then descends for the 1.5 km into the village of {{Marker|type=city|name=Marc|lat=42.71687694132801|long=1.449593121067756}}, cutting across the switchbacks of the road. === Marc - Goulier === ; Distance : 24.3 km ; Duration : 9 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 900 m From Marc, the route follows the path to Mounicou. A short way beyond the hamlet, along the D8 road, you will find a shelter, which marks the beginning of the main ascent for this stage. The trail continues uphill for about 2 hr to the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de Prunadière|wikidata=Q135238526}} at an elevation of 1615 m. It is important to refill your water here. From the refuge, the path leads to a junction located above the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Artiès|lat=42.7362|long=1.4793}} shelter, which sits at 985 m and is reached after about 3¼ hr. The path ascends steadily from the junction, passing the ruins of Pradières-d'en-bas before arriving at Étang d'Izurt, a lake which is also serviced by a cable car. After a final short climb from the lake, the trail begins a long, 14 km downhill stretch to the village of {{Marker|type=city |name=Goulier|wikidata=Q1015676}}. The village, which is part of the Val-de-Sos commune, is situated at an altitude of 370 m. === Goulier - Siguer === ; Distance : 13 km ; Duration : 4¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 400 m From Goulier, the trail ascends first toward the Col de Risoul, then the Col de Esquérus, and continues onward to the Col de Grail. Near this pass, hikers will find a shelter, an information board, and a water source located 250 meters off the main path. The route then climbs to the highest point of the day at the Col de Lercoul, which sits at an elevation of 1549 m. From here, the trail descends through the hamlet of Lercoul. A footpath running south of the winding road leads the rest of the way downhill to the village of {{Marker|name=Siguer|wikidata=Q1375974|type=city}}. === Siguer - Plateau de Beille === ; Distance : 23 km ; Duration : 9 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 2400 m This demanding stage involves three steep descents and offers no formal accommodation along the route, only five basic shelters. The trail begins in Siguer and climbs steeply for about 40 minutes to the village of {{marker|type=city|name=Gestiès|wikidata=Q1082242}}, which is the last opportunity to fill up on water for some time. On the way up, the path crosses the road three times. After a long ascent of about 3¾ hr, you will reach the Pla de Montcamp at an elevation of 1904 m. The trail continues past the Col du Sasc at 1798 m and traverses the flank of the Pic du Col Taillat. Water is again available at the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de Courtal Marti|wikidata=Q135238603}}, though hikers should be aware that trail markings on this high section can be vague. The trail then descends, reaching the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Balledreyt|wikidata=Q135238620}} at 1600 m, a basic shelter with two sleeping places, after another 20 minutes. After a total of about 7½ hr, the trail descends to the D520A road at an elevation of 1040 m. After crossing a bridge over the road, the GR10 climbs again via a forest trail. A water source is marked and located about two minutes off the path, just past a large boulder that is reached after 9 hr of hiking. The trail continues across a ridge to the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Artaran|wikidata=Q135238637}} at 1695 m. Shortly afterward, you reach the ski area at the Plateau de Beille, which has a ski station. This area is accessible via the D522 road loop and is popular with day hikers. === Plateau de Beille - Refuge du Rulhe === ; Distance : 14 km ; Duration : 4¾ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1000 m It is recommended to start this exposed stage early in the day to avoid the common summer afternoon thunderstorms. The trail remains high, staying at or above an altitude of 2000 m for its entire length. The highest point reached is the summit of the {{Marker|type=see|name=Crête des Isards|lat=42.650121422|long=1.73895686684}} at 2381 m. The stage ends at the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge du Rulhe|wikidata=Q11945093}}. This refuge is situated at an important junction of several long-distance trails, including the Tour de Pays des Montagnes d'Ax from Ax-les-Thermes, the GR Transfrontalier from Andorra, and two different routes arriving from the Vallée d'Aston. === Refuge du Rulhe - Mérens-les-Vals === ; Distance : 12 km ; Duration : 4½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 360 m From the refuge, the trail ascends mostly over scree to the Col de Calmettes, reaching an elevation of 2318 m. Along this section, cairns also serve as trail markers. The path then descends to Étang Bleu, where it skirts the left side of the lake before climbing again to the Crête de la Lhasse at 2439 m. Afterward, the trail continues over scree for a descent of nearly 800 m to a pond called l'Estangol, where a shelter is located just above. After the final descent, the trail reaches the village of {{Marker|name=Mérens-les-Vals|wikidata=Q662289|type=city}}. The ruins of the old Saint-Pierre church, which date back to the Napoleonic Wars, can be found here. === Mérens-les-Vals - Refuge des Bésines === ; Distance : 10 km ; Duration : 4½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1300 m This demanding stage continues through high alpine terrain with an abundance of rock and scree. From Mérens, the trail leads past the hamlet of Le Nabre to the local hot springs. Afterward, the path begins a strenuous climb that lasts for nearly 3 hr. The ascent first reaches the Estangs at an elevation of 2056 m and then continues up to the Porteille de Bésines at 2333 m. From this pass, the route is clearly signposted for the remainder of the way. The stage ends at the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge des Bésines|wikidata= Q11945073}}. === Refuge des Bésines - Refuge des Bouillouses === ; Distance : 16.7 km ; Duration : 6 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 660 m This high-level stage crosses several mountain passes and offers excellent panoramic views. The route first ascends to the Coll de Coma d'Anyell, from where it is possible to climb Pic des Bésineilles at 2632 m, in about ¾ hr round trip. The path then continues through the Lansolet basin at 2234 m and climbs again to the Portella de la Grava. From there, it's a gentle 3 hr descent to the lakeside {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge des Bouillouses|wikidata=Q118949600}}. === Refuge des Bouillouses - Planès === ; Distance : 19 km ; Duration : 5¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 230 m The descent on this stage is easy but not always well marked. After approximately 2¾ hr, at an elevation of 1740 m, the GR10 reaches the D618 road. About 700 meters further on, a right turn leads to Superbolquère, where food and lodging are available.. The GR10 continues downhill to the quiet D10C road near the village of {{Marker|name=Bolquère|wikidata=Q1101891|type=city}}, which is situated at 1628 m and reached after about 2¾ hr. In the village, there is a public drinking fountain and an information board. The nearby Gare de Bolquère-Eyne, at 1593 m, is the highest railway station in France and a stop on the scenic “train jaune” line. The route continues by passing through the villages of La Perche and La Cabanasse, reached after about 3½ hr, before ending at the small village of {{Marker|name=Planès|wikidata=Q524705|type=city}}, which has no shops. The village is a stop on the Yellow Line railway. A nearby point of interest is the Pont Gisclard, a cable-stayed bridge opened in 1909 that carries the Ligne de Cerdagne across the Têt river. === Planès - Refuge du Ras de la Carança === ; Distance : 15.3 km ; Duration : 6½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1170 m There are no supply options along this stage. The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a pine forest into the high Riberola valley. It is advisable to refill your water at the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de l'Orri de Riberola|wikidata=Q135244504}}. Above the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane d'Aixques|wikidata=Q135244499}}, the route becomes steep as it climbs to the Col Mitja, situated at an elevation of 2376 m. From the pass, it is possible to make a side trip to summit either the Pic de Gallinas at 2624 m, a 3 hr round trip, or the Pic Redoun at 2677 m, a 2 hr round trip. The final 1½ hr of the main trail involve a descent of about 500 m to reach the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge du Ras de la Carança|wikidata=Q28380908}}. === Refuge du Ras de la Carança - Mantet === ; Distance : 10 km ; Duration : 4 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 640 m This stage is challenging and can be poorly marked at higher elevations. From the refuge, the trail begins by following the stream uphill for 100 m to a wooden bridge. Continue on a scree path that runs along the left side of the valley. After passing through a gate, you will reach an alpine pasture and the Coll del Pal, which sits at an elevation of 2294 m. This area is a nature reserve where wild camping is strictly forbidden. From the pass, an optional ascent leads to the Pic de Serre Gallinère at 2663 m, a one-hour round trip. It is possible to continue further on from there to the Serre de Caret at 2300 m. From the pass, the main trail descends towards the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de l'Alemany|wikidata=Q120254507}}. The main path continues to the left, crossing first a wooden and then a concrete bridge. This is followed by a narrow unpaved road that ascends to the village of {{listing|type=city|name=Mantet|wikidata=Q1369164}}, at an elevation of 1550 m. Most of the southern part of the commune is designated as the Reserva natural de Mentet, a protected area where camping is also forbidden. === Mantet - Refuge de Mariailles === ; Distance : 14.8 km ; Duration : 5 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 936 m Midway along this stage is the village of {{Marker|name=Py|wikidata=Q178846|type=city}}, situated at an altitude of 1023 m. From Py, the trail follows the D6 road briefly before heading northeast to the Col de Jou, at an elevation of 1125 m. From there, the path turns southeast and ascends to the Col de Cavall Mort at 1454 m. The trail then continues its upward journey to the {{Marker|type=sleep|name= Refuge de Mariailles |wikidata= Q120257664}}. === Refuge de Mariailles - Refuge des Cortalets === ; Distance : 16.3 km ; Duration : 6½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1030 m This is a challenging high-mountain route that circumnavigates the Canigou Massif. There are no supply points along the way, and the terrain requires surefootedness. The stage ends at the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge des Cortalets|wikidata=Q3423223}}. === Refuge des Cortalets - Refuge de Batère === ; Distance : 16.8 km ; Duration : 5¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 270 m This stage is also part of the HRP. From the refuge to the Ras del Prat Cabrera, a 4 km walk to an elevation of 1739 m, you can choose between a high-level route following the Canigó Tour or a less steep path along the mountainside. From this pass, the trail descends gradually at first, then more steeply, to the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de l'Estanyol|wikidata=Q120262655}}, which is reached after 2¾ hr or more. The route then climbs again briefly to the Col de la Cirère, at an altitude of 1731 m, a journey of about 4 hr from the start. From here, an optional side trip allows for the ascent of the Puig Saint-Pierre at 1791 m, a 30-minute round trip. Descending from the col, the path passes abandoned stone quarries and mines, including the Mines de la Pinosa, which are the ruins of a former settlement. The trail then arrives at its destination, the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de Batère|wikidata=Q134291980}}. From this area, you can explore the 5-day “Tour du Canigou” circuit or visit the historic abbeys of Saint-Martin du Canigou and Saint-Michel-de-Cuxa. === Refuge de Batère - Arles-sur-Tech === ; Distance : 19.2 km ; Duration : 7½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 745 m Along this long and steady descent, the trail passes several dolmens, ancient megalithic tombs whose full significance may be best appreciated by specialists in archaeology. The stage ends at {{Marker|name=Arles-sur-Tech|wikidata=Q7897|type=city}}. For more extensive services, the nearby town of Amélie-les-Bains-Palalda offers additional accommodation and is connected by bus. === Arles-sur-Tech - Las Illas === ; Distance : 22 km ; Duration : 7 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1000 m From the gîte, the trail follows the D536 road for 1 km, then turns right to begin the uphill climb toward the hamlet of Montalba, which is reached at an altitude of 543 m after about 1 hr. At the cross in Montalba, the path makes a sharp right turn to continue climbing. After approximately 2½ hr, you will reach the ruins of the Mouli Serradou at an elevation of 833 m. The highest point of the stage is the Coll de Sant Martí, at 1426 m, which is reached after 4 hr of hiking. From the pass, the trail continues through a forest along the slope, passing by the Roc de France before ending at the village of {{Marker|name=Las Illas|wikidata=Q16508596|type=city}}. === Las Illas - Col de l'Ouillat === ; Distance : 21 km ; Duration : 7 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 930 m The route for this stage has been altered several times due to terrain difficulties, so it is important to follow the current waymarking carefully. The middle part of the trail runs along the French-Spanish border, just below the ridge. The dominant tree species in this area is the striking Corsican pine, a variety of black pine. For a cultural break, a detour can be made to the fortified town of {{marker|type=city|name=Le Perthus|wikidata=Q135249905}} and the impressive {{marker|type=see|name=Fort de Bellegarde|wikidata=Q3028584}}. Further along the main trail, after about 3 hr of hiking, there is an optional detour to the Roman fort of Panissas, which was originally built on the historic Via Domitia. The turn-off for this excursion is located five minutes past border marker 565, a point reached after about 2½ hr from the start. The stage ends at the {{marker|type=go|name=Col de l'Ouillat|wikidata=Q11914547}}, which is situated at an altitude of 938 m. === Col de l'Ouillat - Banyuls-sur-Mer === ; Distance : 23 km ; Duration : 8¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 680 m The route stays high, running near the border ridge. It takes about 1 hr to reach the Pic Néulos. Water is available at the Refuge de la Tagnarède, which is reached after approximately 1½ hr of hiking. From there, the trail leads over several passes, including the Coll del Faig at 985 m, the Col de l'Orry, and the Col de l'Estaque at 1025 m, which you will arrive at after about 2¾ hr. The path bypasses the Pic des Quatre-Termes at 1156 m and the Pic de la Cabassère to the north. After about 4 hr, you will reach the Coll del Pal at 899 m. From this point, continue to the right toward the Col des Gascons, a journey of 6¼ hr or more. The final descent brings you to the Col de Llagastèra at 285 m. This last section passes partly through vineyards as it makes its way toward the finish in {{Marker|name=Banyuls-sur-Mer|wikidata=Q6753|type=city}}. == Stay safe == The GR 10 is a demanding high-mountain route that requires careful preparation and self-sufficiency. A primary consideration is the weather in the Pyrenees, which can change with extreme speed, bringing thunderstorms, high winds, and dense fog, often in the afternoon. Furthermore, snow can linger on high cols well into July, obscuring the path and making navigation difficult. Therefore, carrying a map, compass, and a GPS device is essential, as official waymarking can be inconsistent or hidden by snow. Hikers must also manage their resources carefully. Water can be scarce on some long stages or at high elevation, particularly in the eastern section, so it is wise to carry more than you expect to need. All water from natural sources should be treated, especially in pastoral areas with livestock. Encounters with wildlife also require awareness. The most common issue involves ''Patous'', the large Pyrenean Mountain Dogs used to guard sheep. These are working animals, not pets, so it is crucial to give them and their flocks a wide berth, walking calmly to avoid provoking a defensive reaction. Vipers are also present, so watch your step in rocky, sunny areas, while the reintroduced brown bears are elusive and pose a negligible risk. In case of an emergency, the pan-European number is {{phone|112}}. However, mobile phone coverage is unreliable in many parts of the mountains. For this reason, carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) is recommended for safety. As a basic precaution, always inform someone of your daily itinerary before you set out. == Go next == * [[Pyrenean High Route]]: Crosses the Pyrenees along the mountain crests, staying higher than both the GR 10 and GR 11. * [[GR 11]] This footpath stays on the Spanish side of the Pyrenees. {{outlineitinerary}} {{Related|France}} {{Related|Pyrenees}} {{PartOfItinerary|Europe itineraries}} l0m8s8vx7mg3q7qaiqfrlkq7oa4z6rn 5091070 5091055 2025-07-10T21:35:11Z Bluecoordinationfine 2327039 5091070 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|GR 10 WV banner.jpg|caption=View from GR 10, near Souriche, looking towards the Tourmalet, valley of Barèges, France}} The '''GR 10''' is one of the paths and trails of the extensive [[Grande Randonnée]] (or GR) network. It crosses [[France]], from the Mediterranean coast to the Atlantic coast, and runs almost entirely through the [[Pyrenees]]. While the trail is in France, much of it is near, or even on, the border with [[Spain]]. The trail can be walked in either direction, though some suggest that the west-east route is easier in the beginning, as it is both cooler and less steep that the corresponding start heading west; this may be an advantage to those not fully in shape. == Understand == [[File:Lac d'Oo (22).jpg|thumb|Lac d'Oo]] Moving from west to east, the trail begins in [[Hendaye]] on the Atlantic Ocean, and finishes on the Mediterranean, in the small town of [[Banyuls sur Mer]]. Hikers will usually be able to make it to a [[France#Guesthouses and holiday rentals|gîte]] or small town every other night, and quite frequently every night. Expected time to complete the trail is around 6-7 weeks, though the majority of people only hike sections of it. == Prepare == The trail is fairly well marked with painted marks on rocks, trees, telephone poles, and even houses, walls, and street signs. If you haven’t seen a waymark for 100 metres, you’ve likely strayed off the trail. Retrace your steps to the last marker and check your route. It is not realistic to navigate using the markers alone. A trail guide, at minimum, or a topologic map is required. Sunburn is a particular problem, and clothing such as long sleeved shirts and long pants should be worn as they protect from the sun, scratching branches and insects. Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat are highly desirable. === Equipment === One of the advantages of the GR 10 is that it can be hiked with minimal gear, as one can eat dinner and breakfast almost every day at the gîtes. Additionally the hiker can sleep outdoors on clear nights and pay for a bed in a gîte in inclement weather. On nights that only shelters (which usually have no food or staff) are available, pre-purchased food can be eaten. If one plans to eat at gîtes and buy food from supermarkets that can be eaten without cooking, the absolute minimal gear in the summer months is: * Sleeping bag or sleep sheet, and a mat for comfort. * Goretex jacket and fleece or similar for cold or wet weather * Long-sleeved shirt and pants * Short-sleeved shirt and shorts (including shorts you can wear for swimming) * Sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat * Adequate footwear. Anything less than hiking boots may prove insufficient. * Bottles for at least two litres of water, and a purification method for treating water from streams. * Toiletries and a [[Travel health kit|medical kit]] Additionally, consider a rain jacket or fleece top for wet or cold weather. If you plan to forgo the comforts and delicious food of the gites and hotels, also bring: * Tent * [[Outdoor cooking|Cooking gear]] and food A note on footwear: some four fifths of the hikers wear full hiking boots and thick socks. While running sneakers may suffice (and Choco-style sandals may work for a few days), your risk of injury is higher, and much of the trail involves hopping around on possibly wet and sharp rocks. Choose conservatively, depending on the length of your hike and your experience. ==Get in== Accessing the start and end points is straightforward via public transport. The GR 10 begins at Hendaye Plage, the main beach in [[Hendaye]]. Hendaye is well-connected by the French railway network. {{marker|type=go|name=Hendaye station|wikidata=Q2310209}} is the main international train station, with services from major French cities including Paris by TGV. From here, you can take a local bus to the start of the trail. Buses run from the main train station to the beach area where the trail begins. {{marker|type=go|name=Gare des Deux-Jumeaux|wikidata=Q2802667}} is a smaller station closer to the beach and the official starting point of the GR 10. It is served by local TER trains. From here, it is a short walk to the trailhead. The GR 10 concludes in the Mediterranean town of [[Banyuls-sur-Mer]]. {{marker|type=go|name=Banyuls-sur-Mer railway station|wikidata=Q2243839}} is located in the center of the town and is served by TER regional trains, which connect to major hubs like [[Perpignan]]. From the station, it is a short walk to the town center and the seafront where the trail officially ends. == Walk == {{Mapframe|lat=42.68287|long=0.56837|width=full|height=360|zoom=7}} {{mapshape|type=geoline|stroke=#000000|stroke-width=3}} === Hendaye-Plage - Olhette === ; Distance : 21.9 km ; Duration : 7¾ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1010 m The hike starts from the 3 km long {{marker|type=see|name=Hendaye Beach|wikidata=Q20947149}}. This is below the old casino, now known as Résidence Croisière. A {{marker|type=buy|name=Decathlon|lat=43.36843635018845|long=-1.7798332063655435}} store geared towards watersports is available for last minute purchases, such as gas cannisters. The trail passes through Hendaye, leaving town, and pases by {{Marker|type=city|name=Biriatou|wikidata=Q196871}}, which conveniently has public toilets available. After about 3 hr you reach the summit of {{marker|type=see|name=Xoldokogaina|wikidata=Q20492776}}. The high point is at Mandale on the Spanish border, with an altitude of 530 m. From here, the path descends past {{Marker|type=see|name=Redoute de la Baïonette|lat=43.3092|long=-1.70330}}, a fortification near Mandale, located by modern border marker 9, to the Col d'Ibardin, a journey of 4¼ hr. The col is a popular spot for French shoppers due to cheap alcohol and tobacco. The trail continues via Col des Poiriers and Col des Joncs before reaching {{Marker|type=city|name=Olhette|lat=43.3360|long=-1.6661}}. === Olhette - Ainhoa === ; Distance : 21.1 km ; Duration : 6½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 730 m The steepest climb comes right at the beginning. For most of the route, you'll be on forest trails and, after Sare, quiet paved country roads. The trail initially ascends on a good path to the Col des Trois Fontaines, a journey of 1½ hr. A shelter is located 300 m from the col. The path then descends to the Col de St-Ignace, where the valley station of the cog railway to La Rhune is found. It continues to {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Sare]]|wikidata=Q274155}}, bringing the total walking time to 2¾ hr. Sare is a local transport hub, an outdoor swimming pool is available, and it is listed as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. The stage ends in {{Marker|type=city|name=Ainhoa|wikidata=Q212962}}, which is also one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. From Col des Trois Fontaines you can ascend La Rhune, which has an altitude of 905 m. The ascent can be made either by cog railway, a trip that takes 35 minutes, or on foot. The walk is a 3 km journey that takes 1¼ hr and involves an ascent and descent of 300 m. The prehistoric {{Marker|type=see|name=Grottes de Sare|wikidata=Q3117280}} can be visited with prior reservation made through the local municipality or online. These caves are closed annually for one month following Epiphany. This stage is part of the [[European long-distance path E9|European long-distance trail E9]]. === Ainhoa - Bidarray === ; Distance : 21.7 km ; Duration : 8½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 880 m This is a difficult stage, with little shade at the start and a particularly steep, rocky descent near the end. After about 40 minutes, you will reach the old cemetery at an altitude of 389 m. It is located beside the {{Marker|type=see|name=Chapelle Notre Dame de l'Aubépine|wikidata=Q12253854}}. You can also find traditional Basque hilarri gravestones here. The path then continues over the Col des Trois-Croix, reaching an altitude of 510 m after about 1½ hr from the start. Ferme Esteben is a good place to rest. You will reach this gîte d'étape with a bar-restaurant after about 3 hr, at an altitude of 580 m. The trail continues near the border, past Boundary Stone 77, partly on a paved road. At Col des Veaux, at an altitude of 550 m, you can take a 300-m detour into Spain to visit a venta, which is a small inn or shop. From here, the trail climbs to the Col de Méhatche, which is at an altitude of 716 m and takes about 3¾ hr to reach. The descent past Boundary Stones 82 and 83 is secured with cables. From Col de Méhatche, you can ascend Artzamendi, which has a summit at 926 m and is easily identified by the radar dome on top. The nearby {{Marker|type=see|name=Grotte le Saint-que-Sue|alt=Harpeko Saindua|lat=43.26526|long=-1.38904}} can also be visited. Just before reaching {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Bidarray]]|wikidata=Q746221}}, a bypass trail offers a shortcut to the next stage. This route is also ideal for peak baggers, as it gives access to several summits. These include Errebi, located between the chapel and Col des Trois-Croix, and Atxulegi, which requires a 15-minute detour on the way to Col des Trois-Croix. When the weather is good, you can also access Mont Bizkayluze at 701 m and Gorospil at 691 m. === Bidarray - Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry === ; Distance : 18.5 km ; Duration : 7½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1250 m This southward stage is demanding, especially due to the complete lack of water sources along the ascent. After passing the Iparla Ridge at an altitude of 950 m, the trail reaches over 1000 m for the first time on the way to the summit. It then continues along the ridge to the Pic de Tutulia before descending to the Col d'Harrieta. This point is reached after 3¾ hr and sits at an altitude of 808 m. The main trail continues across the Buztanzelhay summit, which is reached in 4¾ hr at an altitude of 1029 m. The trail then leads down to the col of the same name at 843 m. Here, the GR-10 turns left and descends steeply. The path crosses the D949 road several times; this road leads from the village to the ventas on the Spanish border at the Col d'Ispéguy. You can also reach this col via the ridge, a distance of 1½ km from Col Buztanzelhay. If you want to skip entering {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry]]|wikidata=Q279252}}, a village situated at 162 m, you can join the next stage earlier at the Nive des Aldudes. This location can be reached in 6½ hr and is at an altitude of 162 m. In the village park, there is a picnic area, and a supermarket stocks gas cartridges. Locals play Rebot, a type of pelota, on two courts. The Château d'Etxauz is not open to the public. The village hosts a traditional folklore festival known as Nafarroaren Eguna on the last Sunday in April. The Nive des Aldudes valley occasionally experiences flooding and mudslides. === Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry - Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port === ; Distance : 19.2 km ; Duration : 7 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 990 m This stage runs mostly on gravel paths and farm tracks. About an hour into the walk, there is an optional detour at Col d'Aharza for a 35-minute climb to Oylarandoy, where a hermitage built in 1706 stands. The GR-10 heads south to the Col d'Aharza, which is at an altitude of 734 m and reached in 2 hr. A water source is available at the col. The trail then turns east and circles around {{Marker|type=see|name=Munhoa|wikidata=Q3327853}}. This summit is at 1023 m and is reached after a total of 3½ hr. The climb is fully exposed to the sun. The descent begins on the right-hand side. {{Marker|name=[[Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port]]|wikidata=Q270294|type=city}} lies at an altitude of 170 m and is where three of the four French pilgrimage routes converge before entering Spain. From here, it is possible to continue directly onto the Camino de Santiago towards Roncesvalles. === Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port - Gîte d'étape Kaskoleta === ; Distance : 16.2 km ; Duration : 5½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 870 m There are no supply points or public transport on this stage, but the walking is relatively easy. In the village of {{Marker|type=city|name=Çaro|wikidata=Q842635}}, at an altitude of 242 m, there is a public fountain next to the town hall. If you choose to end the day early after 3¾ hr in {{Marker|type=city|name=Estérençuby|wikidata=Q842724}}, be aware that this adds an extra 400 m of ascent to the next day's stage. The village lies at an altitude of 231 m and offers two accommodation options. === Gîte d'étape Kaskoleta - Gîte d'étape Chalets d'Iraty === ; Distance : 20.7 km ; Duration : 8 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1410 m This stage is simple but offers little shade. The trail first climbs toward the Col on Ithurramburu, which is at an altitude of 820 m. It then continues ascending to just below {{Marker|type=see|name=Occabe|alt=Okabe|wikidata=Q17417892}} at 1456 m. On the Occabe plateau, 26 Neolithic stone circles have been found. Known as ''harrespil'' in Basque, they are believed to have been used for cremation rites. A good rest stop, reached after 4¾ hr, is the upscale {{Marker|type=city|name=Iraty Sorho|url=|lat=43.037117198|long=-1.07515398244}}. Across the stream at Le Kayolar, similar accommodation is available. From here, the trail turns sharply right after 100 m and continues uphill for another 6-7 km to the stage destination, a final ascent of 300 m. === Gîte d'étape Chalets d'Iraty - Logibar === ; Distance : 16.4 km ; Duration : 6 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 440 m In bad weather, the route along the west side of the {{Marker|type=see|name=Pic des Escaliers|wikidata=Q31645205}}, which has an altitude of 1423 m, is not recommended. There are two alternative routes, but both are poorly marked. At the Ugatzé Ridge, the trail skirts the peak rather than summiting it. To avoid the steep descent from Pic des Escaliers, stay on the road for about 600 m after the start, then turn off after 2½ km to reach Col Ugatzé. A short side trip allows you to summit Arthanolatzégagnia, which requires an additional 35 minutes for the ascent and descent. For several hr, trail markings are sparse. After some time following mule tracks, you'll reach a road crossing at Beloscare, which is at an altitude of 1173 m and is reached after 3 hr. {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Auberge Logibar|wikidata=Q12262540}} marks the end of the stage, but you can also continue 2 km further to {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Larrau]]|wikidata=Q608335}}, which offers three accommodation options and a campground. In bad weather, an easier alternative is to follow the paved road from Iraty directly to Larrau for a gentler descent. === Logibar - Sainte-Engrâce === ; Distance : 26.3 km ; Duration : 9¾ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1420 m This stage leads through spectacular gorges. Follow signs to the Gorges d'Holzarté and ascend the trail to the 70 m long suspension bridge, a walk of 50 minutes. The bridge spans the dramatic Ruisseau de Olhadubi gorge 150 m above the ground. On the far side, the trail continues uphill. After 2 hr, you reach the Olhadubi stream, which is a possible spot for a refreshing dip. Nearby is the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cayolar d'Olhadubi|wikidata=Q135244323}}, reached via a side path from the bridge. It serves as an emergency shelter with space for 4-5 people. Continuing uphill, you'll reach the Abarrakia farm after just over 3 hr. The path then winds between farms, eventually reaching the point where the GR-10 turns sharply to the right, a journey of 4½ hr from the start. After about 5 hr, you'll reach the Col d'Anhaou at an altitude of 1383 m. From here, energetic hikers can summit nearby peaks such as Izeyto at 1464 m or Sarimendi at 1484 m. The stage ends at {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Sainte-Engrâce]]|wikidata=Q135238699}}. Sainte-Engrâce is home to a Romanesque church from the 11th century. From the village, a 9-km side trip with an ascent of 840 m and descent of 135 m takes you to the vast La Verna cave, which has guided tours. A detour south from the restaurant leads into the wild and romantic Gorges de Kakuetta. The trail is known to be very steep and slippery in places. === Sainte-Engrâce - La Pierre Saint-Martin === ; Distance : 11.6 km ; Duration : 4¾ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1200 m The trail climbs steadily from Sainte-Engrâce into the limestone highlands of the Pierre-Saint-Martin massif, marking the transition into more alpine terrain. You ascend to the Col de la Pierre-St-Martin at an altitude of 1760 m, which marks the border with Spain. Since 1373, the Tributo de las Tres Vacas, a cross-border tribute of three cows, has been held here every July 13 to settle grazing rights between the two valleys. A small shop at the parking area sells goat cheese. A ski area lies just over the border on the Spanish side. There is also a small shelter near Boundary Marker 62. An optional 15-minute detour leads to the summit of Soum de Lèche, which has an altitude of 1839 m. The Grotte de la Verna, a massive cave chamber accessible by pre-booked guided tour, lies 1 km off the main trail. From the pass, descend to the first switchback, then turn right off the main track. The trail passes under two chairlifts and continues along the northern flank of the Pic d'Arlas. When you spot three large concrete water tanks, descend to {{Marker|name=La Pierre Saint-Martin|wikidata=Q3211628|type=city}}. === La Pierre Saint-Martin - Lescun === ; Distance : 15 km ; Duration : 6¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 400 m This is a challenging stage, but the scenery is magnificent. Several rocky mountain paths are equipped with cables for safety. The highest point is the Pas de l'Osque at an altitude of 1922 m, which requires a head for heights. The trail continues to the Pas d'Azuns at 1873 m, reached in about 2¾ hr. A good first rest stop with water is the spring near the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane du Cap de la Baitch|wikidata=Q135236037}}, located at 1689 m and reached after about 3 hr. In wet weather, descending to {{Marker|type=city|name=[[Lescun]]|wikidata=Q179737}} at an altitude of 895 m via the road is recommended, as the GR-10 becomes muddy and difficult to navigate. === Lescun - Etsaut === ; Distance : 16 km ; Duration : 6½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 850 m The trail begins easily through pastoral countryside, then enters forested terrain, passing the {{marker|type=sleep|long=-0.61911879259|url=|name=Cottage and camping Accous Lhers-Lescun|lat=42.911348576}} after about 2 hr. It continues climbing to the Col de Barrancq at 1601 m, a journey of roughly 3¾ hr. From the col, a side trip leads to the summit of Pic de Labigouer at 2175 m, which is a 3 hr round trip. Lower down in the Parc d'Orce, within the commune of {{Marker|type=city|name=Borçe|wikidata=Q840474}}, reached in about 5¾ hr, lives the majority of the region's approximately 50 brown bears. The stage ends in {{Marker|type=city|name=Etsaut|wikidata=Q765829}}, at an altitude of 597 m. This village is located on the N-134 and is served by the Canfranc-Oloron-Sainte-Marie bus line. Its former train station now houses the Pyrenees National Park visitor center. Just outside Etsaut, the {{Marker|type=see|name=Fort du Portalet|wikidata=Q3078387}} clings dramatically to the cliffs in two tiers, spanning a height difference of 150 m. === Etsaut - Gabas === ; Distance : 24 km ; Duration : 9½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1640 m The trail begins with the dramatic Chemin de la Mâture, a path carved directly into the rock face which is not passable in icy or snowy conditions. After about 2 hr, the route reaches Grange Perry at an altitude of 1210 m. Shortly after, hikers should keep to the left path. The trail continues to the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de la Baigt de Saint-Cours|wikidata=Q135244393}} at 1560 m, a shelter reserved for shepherds from June to September, arriving after about 3½ hr at the border. Approximately 4 hr into the hike, you will cross a stream on a bridge, which serves as the last reliable water source before the high pass. The highest point of the stage is the Col d'Ayous, reached at an elevation of 2185 m after 5½ hr or more. On its eastern slope lie the scenic Ayous Lakes and the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge d'Ayous|wikidata=Q120225055}}, an ideal place to break this long stage. The Col d'Ayous also marks a significant transition point between valleys, leading from the Chemin de la Mâture and Baigt de Sencours in the Aspe Valley down to Bious-Artigues at 1540 m in the Ossau Valley. This area, located 6.5 km from the pass with a descent of 764 m, offers pony rides and canoe rentals on the eastern shore of the lake. From the pass, several options are available. One can summit Pic d'Ayous, which adds about 30 minutes for the ascent and descent. Alternatively, a 6 km detour leads to Lac Bersau, with a longer 9 km alternative possible via the Vallon d'Aas. From the lake, the descent follows the D231 road, which features switchbacks that can be shortcut. Please note that the Refuge de Gabas is permanently closed. The stage concludes in {{Marker|name=Gabas|wikidata=Q5515276|type=city}}. The village offers two accommodations and a bar, but it does not have a grocery store. Gabas is situated on the 806/806bis bus route, which runs from Col de Portalet to Laruns, a distance of 15 km. === Gabas - Gourette === ; Distance : 23 km ; Duration : 10 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1600 m This is a long and difficult stage where water is scarce and a head for heights is required for the Corniche des Alhas section. Snow may linger on the trail well into summer, which can make following the waymarks challenging. The trail begins by following the D934 road to the Artouste dam before climbing through forest paths. Some parts of this route, known as the Corniche des Alhas, traverse ledges carved into the cliff-side, which are equipped with fixed cables for safety. The path reaches a bridge near the Gave de Soussouéou waterfalls at an elevation of 1145 m. From here, a steep trail leads up to Houn de Mouscabarous at 1361 m and continues its ascent to Petite Arcizette at 2293 m. Snow can persist at these elevations until July. The route then brings you to the Hourquette d'Arre at 2465 m. It is important to note that the path shown on some maps leading to the Géougue d'Arre at 2619 m is a mountaineering route and not a standard hiking trail. The GR10 does not go directly to Lac d'Uzious. Instead, it heads in a roughly north-northeasterly direction across a plateau before turning east to begin its descent. You will eventually reach Lac d'Anglas, situated at 2068 m. From the lake, the trail continues along its outflow before branching off to the right. The stage concludes in the ski resort of {{Marker|type=city|name=Gourette|wikidata=Q1540224}}, located at an altitude of 1350 m. The resort has two supermarkets, and gas cartridges are available for purchase at Intersport. Travelers should be aware that Gourette is mostly closed outside of the main tourist season. During the season, it is served by Bus 806, which runs from Parking Gourette Nord to Eaux-Bonnes, Laruns, and Pau. === Gourette - Arrens-Marsous === ; Distance : 15 km ; Duration : 5¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 900 m This is a relatively easy stage that crosses two mountain passes. The first is the Col de Tortes at an elevation of 1799 m, reached after about 1¾ hr. Later, after crossing the D918, a road popular with cyclists but too busy to follow safely, the trail reaches the Col de Saucède at 1525 m after approximately 3 hr and twenty minutes. From Col de Saucède, hikers can also make a short detour to the summit of Pointe de Surgatte at 1805 m, a round trip that takes between 90 and 100 minutes. Near the Pont de Lapadé, you have the option to either cross the Gave d'Arrens or continue down into the village of {{Marker|type=city|name=Arrens-Marsous|wikidata=Q1110649}}. The village provides tourist information and public toilets at the Maison Val d'Azun, which can be contacted at +33 5 62 97 49 49. Arrens-Marsous also features an outdoor swimming pool and hosts Eldorado, a hiking festival held for four days in late May every two years. Points of interest in the area include the Romanesque Saint-Pierre Church, with parts dating back to the year 1200, and the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Pouey-Laün, a pilgrimage chapel located 600 meters south along the D105. The entire area is part of both the Natura 2000 conservation network, specifically the Gabizos and the Arrens Valley sites, and lies within the core zone of the Pyrenees National Park. === Arrens-Marsous - Refuge d'Ilhéou === ; Distance : 20 km ; Duration : 7½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1600 m From Arrens-Marsous, located 3.5 km from the previous endpoint, hikers can choose between two routes: the official GR10 or the more scenic GR de Pays Tour du Val d'Azun. The latter option is slightly shorter but involves more climbing. Both trails rejoin shortly before reaching the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Gîte d'étape les Viellettes|lat=42.9220|long=-0.1819}}, after about 2¼ of hiking. Approximately 700 meters further on is the simple tent site, La Pose, which is open from May to September. The official GR10 route passes through {{Marker|type=city|name=Estaing|wikidata=Q589628}}. The commune includes the three Natura 2000 protected areas of Gaves de Pau et de Cauterets, Moun Né de Cauterets; Pic de Cabaliros; and Péguère, Barbat, Cambalès. From Estaing, the trail officially enters the core zone of the Pyrenees National Park. The path then ascends toward Lac d'Estaing. From the lake, the trail climbs steeply through a forest to the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Arriousec|wikidata=Q135244408}} at 1400 m, a journey of about 4 hr. Another hour of uphill hiking takes you past the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Barbat|wikidata=Q135244445}}, which are located to the left of the path. A final climb brings you to the Col d'Ilhéou at an elevation of 2242 m, reached after 6 hr or more. Just five minutes below the pass, an alternative route becomes available. By turning left, you can reach the Crête du Lys, where the Courbet cable car operates during July and August. This provides access to the Cauterets-Le Lys ski resort, which features a summer luge track, or offers a direct descent into the town of Cauterets. To continue on foot, descend from the col to the stream near the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabanes de Arras|wikidata=Q135244419}}, a walk of six and a half to seven hr. At this point, turn right and cross two more streams. The path then descends to Lac d'Ilhéou. On the lake's northern shore is the staffed {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge d'Ilhéou|wikidata=Q109042809}}. A designated bivouac area, or *aire de bivouac*, is located about ten minutes further south along the lake. === Refuge d'Ilhéou - Cauterets === ; Distance : 8 km ; Duration : 2½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 75 This is a leisurely downhill walk that brings you gently back to civilization in {{Marker|type=city|name=Cauterets|url=|wikidata=Q366962}}. Cauterets flourished during the late 19th and early 20th centuries thanks to its thermal springs. The municipality operates two spas: Thermes de César in the village center and Thermes des Griffons in nearby La Raillère. === Cauterets - Refuge des Oulètes de Gaube === ; Distance : 15 km ; Duration : 6¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1400 m This demanding stage begins in Cauterets by taking the path located behind the Thermes de César and heading south. After approximately 1¼ hr, you will reach the hamlet of La Raillère, situated at an altitude of 1044 m. This small settlement offers restaurants and a sulfur spa. From La Raillère, cross the bridge and continue your ascent into the Val de Jéret, a scenic valley section where you will pass several waterfalls. After about 3 hr from the start, the trail leads to the Hôtellerie du Pont d'Espagne. From this point, descend briefly along the road before turning right to begin the climb into the valley that leads towards Lac de Gaube. The lake, at an elevation of 1725 m, is reached after a total of 4 hr. As you continue from the lake toward {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge des Oulètes de Gaube|wikidata=Q109042828}}, the path crosses the stream three times via bridges. === Refuge des Oulètes de Gaube - Chalet-refuge la Grange de Holle === ; Distance : 21 km ; Duration : 7½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 800 m About 50 meters from the refuge, the trail embarks on a steady 1 hr climb over rocky terrain. After about 65 minutes, you will reach a fork where you should stay to the right and continue ascending. The trail reaches the Hourquette d'Ossoue, which at 2734 m marks the highest point on the entire GR10. Even in mid-summer, snow often lingers in this area. A 20-minute descent from the pass leads to the {{Marker|type=sleep|name= Refuge Baysselance |wikidata= Q3423105}}. From here, attempting an ascent of Vignemale via the Glacier d'Ossoue is an undertaking suitable only for experienced mountaineers. From the pass, the route heads south-east, passing the Grottes de Bellevue at 2420 m after about 3 hr. These are artificial caves carved in 1880 by the explorer Henry Russell. The trail then descends steeply to a stream and follows it into a boulder field fed by glacial melt from the Glacier d'Ossoue. The descent into the valley is challenging, involving frequent climbs around cliffs and waterfalls. After 5 hr or more, you enter the Vallée de la Canau and pass the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Sausse Dessus|wikidata=Q135244425}}. The next hour continues with more ups and downs until you reach the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane des Tousaus|wikidata=Q135244495}} after a total of 6¾ hr. From there, cross a final ridge to reach the D923 road and then descend to the stage endpoint at the Chalet-refuge la Grange de Holle. If you require more extensive accommodation or supplies, continue to the main village of {{Marker|name=Gavarnie|wikidata=Q917894|type=city}}. From Gavarnie, you can take a popular day trip into the famed Cirque de Gavarnie, which is also accessible by bus from Luz-Saint-Sauveur. For experienced climbers, it is also possible to ascend Le Taillon, which stands at 3146 m, from this area. === Chalet-refuge la Grange de Holle - Luz-Saint-Sauveur === ; Distance : 26 km ; Duration : 9½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 900 m Starting the stage from Gavarnie village via the D128 road, instead of from the previous refuge, shortens the route by about 3 km, saving approximately 1 hr of hiking time. The trail first leads to the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Gîte d'étape le Saugué|url=|lat=42.7686|long=-0.0059}}, which is located on the Plateau Soula de Saugue and is reached after about 1¾ hr. This gîte provides a good option for breaking up the stage. The route then winds northward, passing the Soum Haut after about 3¾ hr, before descending gradually along the western slope of the Gavarnie Valley. After a total of five and three-quarter to 6 hr, you will reach the D921 road. From there, cross the Gave de Gavarnie via the Pont d'Esdouroucats and ascend again to a path that runs above the highway. The trail enters {{Marker|type=city|name=Luz-Saint-Sauveur|wikidata=Q35721506}} from the south via the Pont Napoléon, a dramatic bridge crossing the gorge at an altitude of 755 m, arriving after about 7½ hr. Luz-Saint-Sauveur is a well-equipped mountain town with numerous amenities. === Luz-Saint-Sauveur - Barèges === ; Distance : 12 km ; Duration : 5 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 800 m Though relatively short, this stage begins with a long and steep ascent. The main stage's highest point is the Ruisseau de Bolou, reached at an altitude of 1460 m. During the descent, hikers can stop for refreshments at the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de la Glère|wikidata=Q120230391}}. The stage ends in {{Marker|type=city|name=Barèges|wikidata=Q632058}}, a spa and mountain village composed of the hamlets of Artigalas and Cazaous. The local river, the Bastan, is referred to as the ''gave''. === Barèges - Cabane de l'Oule === ; Distance : 23 km ; Duration : 9½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1300 m The trail begins by climbing above the road toward the ski station at Tournaboup, which takes about 1 hr. It then veers south and starts a steady ascent. Good stopping points along the way include the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Aygues-Cluses|wikidata=Q135244451}} and, 10 km further on, the Chalet-Hôtel d'Orédon. This stage enters the Néouvielle Nature Reserve, a protected area where dogs and wild camping are strictly forbidden. The trail reaches its highest point at the Col de Madamète, situated at an elevation of 2509 m. From the col, the path descends between the alpine lakes of {{Marker|type=see|name=Lac d'Aumar|wikidata=Q3215322}} and Lac d'Aubert, arriving at this scenic spot after about 5¾ hr at an altitude of 2190 m. Here, the trail splits into two variants. The first option continues along the shores of Lac d'Aumar. The second choice is a detour that heads south to the tip of Lac d'Aubert and then proceeds along the northern shores of Les Laguettes and Lac d'Orédon. This latter point, reached after 6¾ hr at an elevation of 1856 m, offers camping and a hotel at its southern end. Both routes eventually rejoin at the Cap d'Estoudou pass, which sits at 2260 m and is immediately followed by a steep descent. From the pasths, a short detour allows for an ascent of Soump de Montpelat, involving a climb of 214 m. The main path continues its steep downhill course to Lac de l'Oule, a journey of 7¾ hr or more, arriving at an altitude of 1821 m. From the lake, a right turn leads directly to {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de l'Oule|wikidata=Q135250080}}. === Cabane de l'Oule - Vielle-Aure === ; Distance : 18 km ; Duration : 6½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 460 m From the refuge, the route follows the western shore of Lac de l'Oule. After approximately 1½ hr, the main trail turns directly east to begin its climb towards the Col de Portet. At this junction, a signed variant is also available, leading to the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de Bastan|wikidata=Q135244489}}. Continuing on the main path, you will reach the Col de Portet, at an elevation of 2215 m, after about 2¾ hr. From the col, the trail continues eastward, descending gently at first to the Pla de Castillon. The descent then becomes steeper as it leads down to the D918 road, reached after 4½ hr or more. The path continues onward to the stage endpoint in {{Marker|type=city|name=Vielle-Aure|wikidata=Q1323900}}. This historic village features two notable Romanesque churches, both dating to the 12th century: Saint-Barthélemy and Saint-Pierre, which is located in the Agos neighbourhood. For a broader range of shops, accommodations, and services, the larger and livelier town of [[Saint-Lary-Soulan]] is located just 1 km to the south. === Vielle-Aure - Germ === ; Distance : 13 km ; Duration : 5¾ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1170 m This is a straightforward, though poorly marked, stage that runs parallel to the D225 road up to the Col d'Azet, which is situated at an altitude of 1600 m. From the pass, the route continues down to {{Marker|type=city|name=Loudenvielle|wikidata=Q987650}}. It is worth noting that during the Pyrenees Bike Festival in early September, the entire area is typically overrun with mountain bikers. The final 3 km of the stage involve a climb of about 220 m up to the hamlet of {{Marker|name=Germ|wikidata=Q1094205|type=city}}, which rests at an altitude of 1339 m. === Germ - Lac d'Oô === ; Distance : 16 km ; Duration : 7½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1200 m This stage and the one that follows are strenuous. They can be divided into thirds with overnight stops at the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Granges d'Astau |lat=42.7635|long=0.5024}} and the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge d'Espingo |wikidata=Q104413940}} at 1967 m. Camping is permitted near the lake. The area around the refuge is also the starting point for a challenging mountaineering loop over the Pic des Spijeoles at 3008 m and the Grand Quayrat at 3060 m, descending past Lac du Portillon at 2571 m and the glacial Lac Glacé d'Oô at 2664 m. After the initial climb out of Germ, the main trail enters the Val d'Aube. The path follows the river on its left-hand side. After about 1¾ hr, the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Ourtiga|wikidata=Q135244454}}, at an elevation of 1610 m, can be seen 250 meters away across the valley. The route then ascends to the Couret d'Esquierry at 2131 m, a journey of 3½ hr, where you cross into the Haute-Garonne department. 4 hr into the stage, you will reach the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane d'Esquierry|wikidata=Q135244457}}. From there, the path follows the D76 road down to the Granges d'Astau and an auberge at 1139 m, arriving after about 5 hr. In July and August, a morning bus runs up to this point from Luchon and returns in the evening. The stage ends at {{Marker|type=see|name=Lac d'Oô|wikidata=Q3215352}}, a scenic 42-hectare lake situated at an altitude of 1507 m. The lake is part of the Natura 2000 reserve Vallées du Lis, de la Pique et d'Oô and has been renowned since the 19th century for its spectacular waterfall, making it a popular destination. Due to its protected status, camping, swimming, and dogs are not permitted in the immediate area. The {{Marker|type=sleep|name= Refuge du Lac d'Oô |wikidata= Q120234040}} can be found on the lake shore. === Lac d'Oô - Bagnères-de-Luchon === ; Distance : 21 km ; Duration : 9¼ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1130 m The trail becomes more difficult and features several rocky scree sections. The path skirts the northern slopes of Hourquette des Hounts-Secs, which has an elevation of 2275 m. From this area, a recommended optional detour involves a 15-minute ascent each way to the summit of Cap de Bassiéret. The main trail continues over the Col de la Coume de Bourg, reached at 2272 m after 4¾ hr or more. Snow may persist on this pass well into the summer. From the col, two additional summit detours are possible: a 45-minute round trip to the north leads to Pic Céciré, while a 40-minute round trip to the south takes you to Subescale. After 5½ hr, you will arrive at {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Superbagnères|wikidata=Q844809}}, a mountain hotel situated at 1802 m. This establishment primarily serves the ski area and is only open during the summer months of July and August. While it offers meals and lodging, be aware that prices are high. The massive, historic building can also be reached by a {{Marker|type=see|name=gondola lift|lat=42.7879|long=0.5908}} from Luchon, which replaced an old cog railway. If you choose to descend on foot, be prepared for a steep drop of 1200 m to reach the stage's endpoint, {{Marker|name=Bagnères-de-Luchon|wikidata=Q238393|type=city}}. This spa town marks the end of the central Pyrenean segment of the GR10. From here, regular bus services run to Montréjeau, where you can connect by train to Toulouse. === Bagnères-de-Luchon - Artigue === ; Distance : 8 km ; Duration : 3 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 600 m From the church in Luchon, the trail begins by heading left along the footpath beside the L'One river, crossing the road bridge that leads toward Juzet-de-Luchon. As an optional detour from this path, you can visit the {{Marker|name=Cascade Juzet-de-Luchon|wikidata= Q135191106 |type=see}} waterfall. The main trail continues onward through the village of Sode to the day's highest point, which is also the stage destination: the village of {{Marker|name=Artigue|wikidata=Q1088729|type=city}}, situated at an altitude of 1230 m. === Artigue - Fos === ; Distance : 21 km ; Duration : 8½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1100 m This stage begins with a steady climb of over 1000 m, the first half of which is on a gravel track. After approximately 1¼ hr, you will reach the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de Saunères|wikidata=Q135244461}}, a basic mountain shelter at an altitude of 1660 m. Around 1 hr later, the trail arrives at the Col de Peyrehitte at 1947 m. The route continues along an exposed ridge that circles the Pic de Bacanère, which stands at 2193 m and is reached after 3 hr. This section passes by border markers 402 through 404. After reaching the Col d'Aou at 2093 m in about 3½ hr, the trail begins a gradual descent across open alpine meadows. Potable water is available at the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Artigue|wikidata=Q135244467}}, which you will reach after 5 hr. An alternative route, which was the former path of the GR10, is also possible from here. You can divert to the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Artiguessans|wikidata=Q135244482}}, descend steeply to the Ruisseau de la Batch, and then climb back up to rejoin the current GR10. The main trail winds down gently through a series of switchbacks, eventually crossing a road bridge into the village of {{Marker|name=Fos|wikidata=Q1349025|type=city}}. The village is situated at an altitude of 544 m and has weekday bus service to Melles and Saint-Gaudens, where railway connections to Pau and Toulouse are available. === Fos - Refuge de l'Étang d'Araing === ; Distance : 18 km ; Duration : 8 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1700 m It is a good idea to stock up on supplies in the village of {{Marker|name=[[Melles]]|wikidata=Q1616421|type=city}}, which you will reach after about 45 minutes of walking. While passing through, be sure to check out the local {{Marker|name=botanical garden|wikidata= Q3162431 |type=see}}. From Melles, a narrow road leads uphill to the last farmhouse at Labach, a journey of about 2¼ hr. The next 2 hr or more are spent climbing steadily, mostly through forested terrain. After approximately 5 hr, you will reach the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane d'Uls|wikidata=Q135244485}} shelter. The path continues uphill from there to the Pic du Pas du Bouc, which sits at an elevation of 2170 m and is reached after 6 hr. From this point, the {{Marker|type=see|name=Pic de Crabère|wikidata=Q3382364}} at 2629 m can be climbed in a round-trip of about 90 minutes. Hikers should be aware that brown bears have been reintroduced to this area. The highest point of the day is the Col d'Auéran at an altitude of 2176 m. This pass also marks the border crossing into the Ariège department. From the col, it is a quick descent to the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de l'Étang|wikidata=Q3423195}}. === Refuge de l'Étang d'Araing - Eylie-d'en-Haut === ; Distance : 8 km ; Duration : 4 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 300 m From the lake and refuge, the trail climbs for about 1 hr to reach the Serre d'Araing at an elevation of 2221 m. As an optional detour from here, you can summit the Pic de l'Har at 2424 m, which is a 50-minute round trip. The descent into the valley follows faintly marked trails that run to the left of the power lines. Along the way, you will encounter remnants of former lead mining operations. After approximately 2¾ hr of descending, you will cross a bridge and arrive in {{Marker|name=Eylie d'en Haut|wikidata=Q134078264|type=city}}. === Eylie-d'en-Haut - Ayer === ; Distance : 17 km ; Duration : 8¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1600 m This is a strenuous stage with no food or lodging options along the way. The trail starts by crossing the Lez river, then turns sharply left and begins a climb through open terrain. After about 50 minutes, you will cross a stream and then ascend through a forest for just over 1 hr. In the autumn, these woods are full of blueberries, which are a favourite food of the brown bears that were reintroduced to this region in the 1990s. At a stone shelter located at an altitude of 1660 m, reached after about 2½ hr, the trail forks. The GR10 continues to the right, leading up to the Col de l'Arech at 1802 m, a point reached after 3 hr. From the col, the path turns left. Several detours are available from here, including an ascent to Tuc de Cagonilles at 2196 m, an 80-minute round trip, or a more challenging 3 hr round trip to the Mail de Bulard at 2750 m. After a short ridge walk from the col, the trail descends to the shepherd's hut, {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Arech|wikidata=Q135244262}}, at 1638 m, arriving after about 3½ hr. From here, follow the access track downward, then branch left to descend a steep, gorse-covered slope. 4 hr into the stage, you will reach a stream. About 40 minutes later, the ruins of Flouquet, at an elevation of 1680 m, will come into view. The path continues to {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de Besset|wikidata=Q135244266}} at 1540 m, reached after 6 hr or more, and then ascends again for 45 minutes to {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Clot du Lac|wikidata=Q135244295}} at 1821 m, a 7 hr journey in total. Passing the huts of {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane du Trapech du Milieu|wikidata=Q135244302}}, at 1540 m, and {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de l'Artigue|wikidata=Q135244305}}, you finally arrive at {{Marker|name=Ayer|lat=42.8308|long=1.0140737696|type=city}}. The surrounding Mont Valier massif is a protected area and a point of interest for birdwatchers. It hosts a variety of mountain bird species, including rare birds of prey, bearded vultures, and alpine species such as ptarmigans, black grouse, and capercaillie. === Ayer - Esbintz === ; Distance : 18 km ; Duration : 9¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1350 m This is a demanding stage with significant Cumulative elevation gain and loss. The trail climbs from Maison du Valier, following the high northern slopes along a series of ridges. It passes over Cap de Lauses at 1892 m, Pic de Crabère at 1925 m, and the Col d'Auédole at 1730 m. After more than seven hr of hiking, you will arrive at the destination, {{Marker|type=city|lat=42.85332|long=1.14584|name=Esbintz}}. === Esbintz - Refuge d'Aula === ; Distance : 19 km ; Duration : 6¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1200 m This stage and the one that follows offer spectacular scenery in good weather. The trail begins in Esbintz and follows the D817 road for the first 2 km to Borde de Galy. The trail continues mostly downhill through the countryside, crossing the Pont du Salat to reach {{Marker|type=city|wikidata= Q135236168 |name=Moulin Lauga}}, at an altitude of 550 m, after about 2 hr, continuing towards {{Marker|type=sleep|wikidata= Q135236171 |name= Refuge d'Aula}} === Refuge d'Aula - Rouze === ; Distance : 16 km ; Duration : 5 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 700 m From the Refuge d'Aula, the trail begins with a steep but manageable 1½ hr ascent to the Bouche d'Aula, which sits at an elevation of 1998 m. This is followed by a descent to the Étang d'Areau, which is about 100 m lower. From the east side of the lake, the Pic des Aymesses can be climbed, reaching a summit of 2036 m. A farm road then leads down toward the hamlet of Faup, with several shortcuts available along the switchbacks, such as the one near the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane pastorale d'Arreau|wikidata=Q135244513}}. After about 2¼ hr, you will arrive slightly below the Col de Pause at 1527 m, where there is a parking area. The {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Rigaux Philippe campsite|lat=42.78997920829053|long=1.178432115744275}} lies just below Faup. From Faup, the route descends along the D708 road in the direction of {{Marker|name=Couflens|wikidata=Q1142090|type=city}}. However, before reaching the junction with the D3, the trail crosses a bridge and climbs on the opposite slope to the Gîte de Rouze d'Ustou. === Rouze - Saint-Lizier-d'Ustou === ; Distance : 8.4 km ; Duration : 4 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 800 m From the gîte, follow the stream uphill for approximately 1¾ hr to reach the Col de la Serre du Cot at an altitude of 1546 m. From the pass, several optional side trips are possible. To the south, you can ascend the Pic de la Tese at 2255 m, a round trip that takes about 3 hr. To the north, a shorter 40-minute round trip leads to the summit of Tuc de Peyre Mensongère at 1711 m. From the pass, the main trail descends to the left onto a forest path, passing a few ruined farmhouses along the way. Eventually, the route reaches the D38 road and leads into the village of {{Marker|type=city|name=Saint-Lizier-d'Ustou|wikidata=Q1362897}}. === Saint-Lizier-d'Ustou - Aulus-les-Bains === ; Distance : 23 km ; Duration : 9 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1400 m The hike begins at the southern end of Saint-Lizier. After crossing a pedestrian bridge, the trail climbs southeast to the Col de Fitté, a former ski area at an altitude of 1387 m. From there, it continues along the right side of the slope. An alternative route begins in {{Marker|type=city|name=Bidous|wikidata= Q135236176}}; it follows the Alet river south and then climbs steeply for over 2 hr to reach the Col de Fitté, where it rejoins the GR10. The main trail then curves around the southwest side of the Picou de la Mire at 1741 m and reaches the Col d'Escots at 1618 m after about three and three-quarter hr. Afterwards, the path continues with ascents and descents along steep slopes until it reaches the Ruisseau de Fouillet valley after about 4½ hr. The Jasse du Fouillet crossing, at an elevation of 1170 m, is reached after at least 5 hr. For a shorter option, hikers can follow the yellow-red waymarks of the Tour du Val du Garbet. This path leads to the D8F road and directly into Aulus-les-Bains, taking about 7 hr from Saint-Lizier. The main GR10 route continues toward the plateau of Souliou and the Pic du Mont Rouge at 1600 m. A side trip to Étang de Guzet offers a possible bivouac site. The trail then descends toward the Ruisseau d'Ars at 1485 m, crosses a bridge, and continues its downward course. After a second bridge crossing, reached after 8½ hr, the path becomes easier. A final bridge, the Pont de la Mouline, crosses the Garbet River just before the trail enters {{Marker|type=city|name=Aulus-les-Bains|wikidata=Q1082493|url=}}. === Aulus-les-Bains - Refuge des Étangs de Bassiès === ; Distance : 11 km ; Duration : 5 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1200 m The route climbs out of Aulus-les-Bains to the Port de Saleix, where you will find the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de Carol|wikidata=Q135236243}}. From this point, the ascent becomes steeper. The following section of the trail leading to the Port de Bassiès is demanding but offers rewarding scenery. Hikers should be aware that this area lies within the Mont-Calme nature reserve, where camping is strictly prohibited. === Refuge des Étangs de Bassiès - Marc === ; Distance : 17,3 km ; Duration : 5¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1385 From the refuge, the GR10 leads southeast along a slightly rocky trail for just over 3 km, following a chain of lakes. At the outflow of the last lake, the Étang d'Escalès, the trail bends to the right. The trail eventually makes a sharp turn southward. From an aqueduct at 1160 m, reached after about two and a quarter hr, the route maintains an elevation just below 1200 m for around 4 km. It then descends for the 1.5 km into the village of {{Marker|type=city|name=Marc|lat=42.71687694132801|long=1.449593121067756}}, cutting across the switchbacks of the road. === Marc - Goulier === ; Distance : 24.3 km ; Duration : 9 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 900 m From Marc, the route follows the path to Mounicou. A short way beyond the hamlet, along the D8 road, you will find a shelter, which marks the beginning of the main ascent for this stage. The trail continues uphill for about 2 hr to the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de Prunadière|wikidata=Q135238526}} at an elevation of 1615 m. It is important to refill your water here. From the refuge, the path leads to a junction located above the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Artiès|lat=42.7362|long=1.4793}} shelter, which sits at 985 m and is reached after about 3¼ hr. The path ascends steadily from the junction, passing the ruins of Pradières-d'en-bas before arriving at Étang d'Izurt, a lake which is also serviced by a cable car. After a final short climb from the lake, the trail begins a long, 14 km downhill stretch to the village of {{Marker|type=city |name=Goulier|wikidata=Q1015676}}. The village, which is part of the Val-de-Sos commune, is situated at an altitude of 370 m. === Goulier - Siguer === ; Distance : 13 km ; Duration : 4¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 400 m From Goulier, the trail ascends first toward the Col de Risoul, then the Col de Esquérus, and continues onward to the Col de Grail. Near this pass, hikers will find a shelter, an information board, and a water source located 250 meters off the main path. The route then climbs to the highest point of the day at the Col de Lercoul, which sits at an elevation of 1549 m. From here, the trail descends through the hamlet of Lercoul. A footpath running south of the winding road leads the rest of the way downhill to the village of {{Marker|name=Siguer|wikidata=Q1375974|type=city}}. === Siguer - Plateau de Beille === ; Distance : 23 km ; Duration : 9 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 2400 m This demanding stage involves three steep descents and offers no formal accommodation along the route, only five basic shelters. The trail begins in Siguer and climbs steeply for about 40 minutes to the village of {{marker|type=city|name=Gestiès|wikidata=Q1082242}}, which is the last opportunity to fill up on water for some time. On the way up, the path crosses the road three times. After a long ascent of about 3¾ hr, you will reach the Pla de Montcamp at an elevation of 1904 m. The trail continues past the Col du Sasc at 1798 m and traverses the flank of the Pic du Col Taillat. Water is again available at the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane de Courtal Marti|wikidata=Q135238603}}, though hikers should be aware that trail markings on this high section can be vague. The trail then descends, reaching the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Balledreyt|wikidata=Q135238620}} at 1600 m, a basic shelter with two sleeping places, after another 20 minutes. After a total of about 7½ hr, the trail descends to the D520A road at an elevation of 1040 m. After crossing a bridge over the road, the GR10 climbs again via a forest trail. A water source is marked and located about two minutes off the path, just past a large boulder that is reached after 9 hr of hiking. The trail continues across a ridge to the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane Artaran|wikidata=Q135238637}} at 1695 m. Shortly afterward, you reach the ski area at the Plateau de Beille, which has a ski station. This area is accessible via the D522 road loop and is popular with day hikers. === Plateau de Beille - Refuge du Rulhe === ; Distance : 14 km ; Duration : 4¾ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1000 m It is recommended to start this exposed stage early in the day to avoid the common summer afternoon thunderstorms. The trail remains high, staying at or above an altitude of 2000 m for its entire length. The highest point reached is the summit of the {{Marker|type=see|name=Crête des Isards|lat=42.650121422|long=1.73895686684}} at 2381 m. The stage ends at the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge du Rulhe|wikidata=Q11945093}}. This refuge is situated at an important junction of several long-distance trails, including the Tour de Pays des Montagnes d'Ax from Ax-les-Thermes, the GR Transfrontalier from Andorra, and two different routes arriving from the Vallée d'Aston. === Refuge du Rulhe - Mérens-les-Vals === ; Distance : 12 km ; Duration : 4½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 360 m From the refuge, the trail ascends mostly over scree to the Col de Calmettes, reaching an elevation of 2318 m. Along this section, cairns also serve as trail markers. The path then descends to Étang Bleu, where it skirts the left side of the lake before climbing again to the Crête de la Lhasse at 2439 m. Afterward, the trail continues over scree for a descent of nearly 800 m to a pond called l'Estangol, where a shelter is located just above. After the final descent, the trail reaches the village of {{Marker|name=Mérens-les-Vals|wikidata=Q662289|type=city}}. The ruins of the old Saint-Pierre church, which date back to the Napoleonic Wars, can be found here. === Mérens-les-Vals - Refuge des Bésines === ; Distance : 10 km ; Duration : 4½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1300 m This demanding stage continues through high alpine terrain with an abundance of rock and scree. From Mérens, the trail leads past the hamlet of Le Nabre to the local hot springs. Afterward, the path begins a strenuous climb that lasts for nearly 3 hr. The ascent first reaches the Estangs at an elevation of 2056 m and then continues up to the Porteille de Bésines at 2333 m. From this pass, the route is clearly signposted for the remainder of the way. The stage ends at the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge des Bésines|wikidata= Q11945073}}. === Refuge des Bésines - Refuge des Bouillouses === ; Distance : 16.7 km ; Duration : 6 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 660 m This high-level stage crosses several mountain passes and offers excellent panoramic views. The route first ascends to the Coll de Coma d'Anyell, from where it is possible to climb Pic des Bésineilles at 2632 m, in about ¾ hr round trip. The path then continues through the Lansolet basin at 2234 m and climbs again to the Portella de la Grava. From there, it's a gentle 3 hr descent to the lakeside {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge des Bouillouses|wikidata=Q118949600}}. === Refuge des Bouillouses - Planès === ; Distance : 19 km ; Duration : 5¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 230 m The descent on this stage is easy but not always well marked. After approximately 2¾ hr, at an elevation of 1740 m, the GR10 reaches the D618 road. About 700 meters further on, a right turn leads to Superbolquère, where food and lodging are available.. The GR10 continues downhill to the quiet D10C road near the village of {{Marker|name=Bolquère|wikidata=Q1101891|type=city}}, which is situated at 1628 m and reached after about 2¾ hr. In the village, there is a public drinking fountain and an information board. The nearby Gare de Bolquère-Eyne, at 1593 m, is the highest railway station in France and a stop on the scenic “train jaune” line. The route continues by passing through the villages of La Perche and La Cabanasse, reached after about 3½ hr, before ending at the small village of {{Marker|name=Planès|wikidata=Q524705|type=city}}, which has no shops. The village is a stop on the Yellow Line railway. A nearby point of interest is the Pont Gisclard, a cable-stayed bridge opened in 1909 that carries the Ligne de Cerdagne across the Têt river. === Planès - Refuge du Ras de la Carança === ; Distance : 15.3 km ; Duration : 6½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1170 m There are no supply options along this stage. The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a pine forest into the high Riberola valley. It is advisable to refill your water at the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de l'Orri de Riberola|wikidata=Q135244504}}. Above the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Cabane d'Aixques|wikidata=Q135244499}}, the route becomes steep as it climbs to the Col Mitja, situated at an elevation of 2376 m. From the pass, it is possible to make a side trip to summit either the Pic de Gallinas at 2624 m, a 3 hr round trip, or the Pic Redoun at 2677 m, a 2 hr round trip. The final 1½ hr of the main trail involve a descent of about 500 m to reach the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge du Ras de la Carança|wikidata=Q28380908}}. === Refuge du Ras de la Carança - Mantet === ; Distance : 10 km ; Duration : 4 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 640 m This stage is challenging and can be poorly marked at higher elevations. From the refuge, the trail begins by following the stream uphill for 100 m to a wooden bridge. Continue on a scree path that runs along the left side of the valley. After passing through a gate, you will reach an alpine pasture and the Coll del Pal, which sits at an elevation of 2294 m. This area is a nature reserve where wild camping is strictly forbidden. From the pass, an optional ascent leads to the Pic de Serre Gallinère at 2663 m, a one-hour round trip. It is possible to continue further on from there to the Serre de Caret at 2300 m. From the pass, the main trail descends towards the {{marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de l'Alemany|wikidata=Q120254507}}. The main path continues to the left, crossing first a wooden and then a concrete bridge. This is followed by a narrow unpaved road that ascends to the village of {{listing|type=city|name=Mantet|wikidata=Q1369164}}, at an elevation of 1550 m. Most of the southern part of the commune is designated as the Reserva natural de Mentet, a protected area where camping is also forbidden. === Mantet - Refuge de Mariailles === ; Distance : 14.8 km ; Duration : 5 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 936 m Midway along this stage is the village of {{Marker|name=Py|wikidata=Q178846|type=city}}, situated at an altitude of 1023 m. From Py, the trail follows the D6 road briefly before heading northeast to the Col de Jou, at an elevation of 1125 m. From there, the path turns southeast and ascends to the Col de Cavall Mort at 1454 m. The trail then continues its upward journey to the {{Marker|type=sleep|name= Refuge de Mariailles |wikidata= Q120257664}}. === Refuge de Mariailles - Refuge des Cortalets === ; Distance : 16.3 km ; Duration : 6½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1030 m This is a challenging high-mountain route that circumnavigates the Canigou Massif. There are no supply points along the way, and the terrain requires surefootedness. The stage ends at the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge des Cortalets|wikidata=Q3423223}}. === Refuge des Cortalets - Refuge de Batère === ; Distance : 16.8 km ; Duration : 5¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 270 m This stage is also part of the HRP. From the refuge to the Ras del Prat Cabrera, a 4 km walk to an elevation of 1739 m, you can choose between a high-level route following the Canigó Tour or a less steep path along the mountainside. From this pass, the trail descends gradually at first, then more steeply, to the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de l'Estanyol|wikidata=Q120262655}}, which is reached after 2¾ hr or more. The route then climbs again briefly to the Col de la Cirère, at an altitude of 1731 m, a journey of about 4 hr from the start. From here, an optional side trip allows for the ascent of the Puig Saint-Pierre at 1791 m, a 30-minute round trip. Descending from the col, the path passes abandoned stone quarries and mines, including the Mines de la Pinosa, which are the ruins of a former settlement. The trail then arrives at its destination, the {{Marker|type=sleep|name=Refuge de Batère|wikidata=Q134291980}}. From this area, you can explore the 5-day “Tour du Canigou” circuit or visit the historic abbeys of Saint-Martin du Canigou and Saint-Michel-de-Cuxa. === Refuge de Batère - Arles-sur-Tech === ; Distance : 19.2 km ; Duration : 7½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 745 m Along this long and steady descent, the trail passes several dolmens, ancient megalithic tombs whose full significance may be best appreciated by specialists in archaeology. The stage ends at {{Marker|name=Arles-sur-Tech|wikidata=Q7897|type=city}}. For more extensive services, the nearby town of Amélie-les-Bains-Palalda offers additional accommodation and is connected by bus. === Arles-sur-Tech - Las Illas === ; Distance : 22 km ; Duration : 7 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 1000 m From the gîte, the trail follows the D536 road for 1 km, then turns right to begin the uphill climb toward the hamlet of Montalba, which is reached at an altitude of 543 m after about 1 hr. At the cross in Montalba, the path makes a sharp right turn to continue climbing. After approximately 2½ hr, you will reach the ruins of the Mouli Serradou at an elevation of 833 m. The highest point of the stage is the Coll de Sant Martí, at 1426 m, which is reached after 4 hr of hiking. From the pass, the trail continues through a forest along the slope, passing by the Roc de France before ending at the village of {{Marker|name=Las Illas|wikidata=Q16508596|type=city}}. === Las Illas - Col de l'Ouillat === ; Distance : 21 km ; Duration : 7 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 930 m The route for this stage has been altered several times due to terrain difficulties, so it is important to follow the current waymarking carefully. The middle part of the trail runs along the French-Spanish border, just below the ridge. The dominant tree species in this area is the striking Corsican pine, a variety of black pine. For a cultural break, a detour can be made to the fortified town of {{marker|type=city|name=Le Perthus|wikidata=Q135249905}} and the impressive {{marker|type=see|name=Fort de Bellegarde|wikidata=Q3028584}}. Further along the main trail, after about 3 hr of hiking, there is an optional detour to the Roman fort of Panissas, which was originally built on the historic Via Domitia. The turn-off for this excursion is located five minutes past border marker 565, a point reached after about 2½ hr from the start. The stage ends at the {{marker|type=go|name=Col de l'Ouillat|wikidata=Q11914547}}, which is situated at an altitude of 938 m. === Col de l'Ouillat - Banyuls-sur-Mer === ; Distance : 23 km ; Duration : 8¼ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 680 m The route stays high, running near the border ridge. It takes about 1 hr to reach the Pic Néulos. Water is available at the Refuge de la Tagnarède, which is reached after approximately 1½ hr of hiking. From there, the trail leads over several passes, including the Coll del Faig at 985 m, the Col de l'Orry, and the Col de l'Estaque at 1025 m, which you will arrive at after about 2¾ hr. The path bypasses the Pic des Quatre-Termes at 1156 m and the Pic de la Cabassère to the north. After about 4 hr, you will reach the Coll del Pal at 899 m. From this point, continue to the right toward the Col des Gascons, a journey of 6¼ hr or more. The final descent brings you to the Col de Llagastèra at 285 m. This last section passes partly through vineyards as it makes its way toward the finish in {{Marker|name=Banyuls-sur-Mer|wikidata=Q6753|type=city}}. == Stay safe == The GR 10 is a demanding high-mountain route that requires careful preparation and self-sufficiency. A primary consideration is the weather in the Pyrenees, which can change with extreme speed, bringing thunderstorms, high winds, and dense fog, often in the afternoon. Furthermore, snow can linger on high cols well into July, obscuring the path and making navigation difficult. Therefore, carrying a map, compass, and a GPS device is essential, as official waymarking can be inconsistent or hidden by snow. Hikers must also manage their resources carefully. Water can be scarce on some long stages or at high elevation, particularly in the eastern section, so it is wise to carry more than you expect to need. All water from natural sources should be treated, especially in pastoral areas with livestock. Encounters with wildlife also require awareness. The most common issue involves ''Patous'', the large Pyrenean Mountain Dogs used to guard sheep. These are working animals, not pets, so it is crucial to give them and their flocks a wide berth, walking calmly to avoid provoking a defensive reaction. Vipers are also present, so watch your step in rocky, sunny areas, while the reintroduced brown bears are elusive and pose a negligible risk. In case of an emergency, the pan-European number is {{phone|112}}. However, mobile phone coverage is unreliable in many parts of the mountains. For this reason, carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) is recommended for safety. As a basic precaution, always inform someone of your daily itinerary before you set out. == Go next == * [[Pyrenean High Route]]: Crosses the Pyrenees along the mountain crests, staying higher than both the GR 10 and GR 11. * [[GR 11]] This footpath stays on the Spanish side of the Pyrenees. {{outlineitinerary}} {{Related|France}} {{Related|Pyrenees}} {{PartOfItinerary|Europe itineraries}} oldgv9bafn9jxblg368bieqj70cpnbu 0 13351 5090859 5075143 2025-07-10T14:19:06Z LordDiscord 2328784 Typo 5090859 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Kompsatos river bridge, Thrace.jpg|caption=Kompsatos river bridge, Thrace}} '''Greece''' ([[Greek phrasebook|Greek]]: ''Ελλάς'', ''Hellas'' or ''Ελλάδα'', ''Ellada'') is a country with a captivating history and culture that has influenced the world for thousands of years. [[Ancient Greece]], home to one of Europe's first urban civilizations, was the origin of Western culture. Travellers from all over the world visit Greece to view its rich cultural past and magnificent natural settings, which include majestic mountains and beaches. Greece offers everything, whether you're a history buff, a sun seeker, or just searching for an amazing trip. ==Regions== Greece is both a mountainous and coastal country, with countless islands spread over the Ionian and Aegean seas. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Greece WV regions map 2016.svg | regionmapsize=400px | region1name=The [[Peloponnese]] | region1color=#8ba2d8 | region1items=[[Achaea]], [[Arcadia (Greece)|Arcadia]], [[Argolis]], [[Corinthia]], [[Elis]], [[Laconia (Greece)|Laconia]], [[Messenia]] | region1description=Beautiful beaches, ancient sites such as Olympia, Mycenae and Epidaurus, picturesque mountain villages, spectacular gorges such as the Lousios Gorge, and culinary highlights in idyllic coastal towns. | region2name=[[Central Greece]] | region2color=#d3caad | region2items= [[Evvia]], [[Attica]], [[Boeotia]], [[Phthiotis]], [[Phocis]], [[Evrytania]], [[Aetolia-Acarnania]] | region2description=Home to [[Athens]], many wonderful beaches, it also offers some of the most famous sites of ancient history. | region3name=[[Thessaly]] | region3color=#98b58f | region3items=[[Magnesia]], [[Larissa_(prefecture)|Larissa]], Trikala, Karditsa | region3description= Visit the Meteora monasteries, Mount Olympus, the Pelion peninsula and the Northern Sporades island group, and the beaches of the Olympic Riviera. | region4name=[[Northern Greece]] | region4color=#cca495 | region4items= [[Epirus]], [[Macedonia (Greece)|Macedonia]], [[Western Thrace]] | region4description=The large, varied upper half of Greece that is still relatively untouristed, though much of this area offers rewarding destinations that deserve to be better known. | region6name=[[Greek Islands]] | region6color=#c772be | region6items=[[Saronic Gulf Islands]], [[Cyclades]], [[Dodecanese]], [[Rhodes]], [[Sporades Islands]], [[East Aegean Islands]], [[North Aegean Islands]], [[Ionian Islands]] | region6description= The islands offer stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, picturesque villages, ancient ruins, and delicious food. | region7name=[[Crete]] | region7color=#c8c572 | region7items=Crete, Gavdos, Chrysi | region7description= The largest Greek island and the fifth-largest island in the Mediterranean, with a rich history, culture, stunning beaches, and delicious food. }} ==Cities== {{mapframe}} Major cities include: *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Athens]]|lat=37.983972|long=23.727806|wikidata=Q1524}} (Αθήνα, ''Athína'') — the capital and largest city, known for the [[Athens/Acropolis|Parthenon]] *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chania]]|lat=35.516667|long=24.016667|wikidata=Q182299}} (Χανιά) — surrounded by beaches and the [[Samaria National Park]] *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chersonissos]]|lat=35.316667|long=25.39|wikidata=Q1018106}} (Χερσόνησος) — party capital of Crete in the summer *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Heraklion]]|lat=35.333333|long=25.133333|wikidata=Q160544}} (Ηράκλειο, ''Irákleio'') — Crete's largest city and main hub with the archaeological site of Knossos *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kavala]]|lat=40.941 | long=24.403|wikidata=Q187352}} (Καβάλα) — romantic port city in East Macedonia with many sights and ferry port to the North Aegean Islands. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Patras]]|lat=38.25|long=21.733333|wikidata=Q133123}} (Πάτρα) — third largest city in Greece, known for its [[wine]] production *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rhodes (city)|Rhodes]]|lat=36.433333|long=28.216667|wikidata=Q188731}} (Ρόδος, ''Ródos'') — impressive medieval structures, nightlife and beaches *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Thessaloniki]]|lat=40.65|long=22.9|wikidata=Q17151}} (Θεσσαλονίκη) — second largest city, the main city in the central Macedonia region *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Volos]]|lat=39.366667|long=22.933333|wikidata=Q200036}} (Βόλος) — coastal port with nice museums and architecture ==Other destinations== [[File:Panoramic view of Oia, Santorini island (Thira), Greece.jpg|thumb|350px|Panoramic view of [[Ia|Oia]], Santorini Island]] <!-- 9 ONLY, if you think a destination should be added, you need to suggest one for REMOVAL on the talk page --> *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Crete]]||wikidata=Q34374}} (Κρήτη) — the largest island in Greece *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Corfu]]|lat=39.583333|long=19.866667|wikidata=Q121378}} (Κέρκυρα, ''Kérkyra'') — large island with many attractions *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Delphi]]|lat=38.4823|long=22.5013|wikidata=Q75459}} (Δελφοί) — site of the famous oracle of Apollo, major archaeological site *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Meteora]]|lat=39.714167|long=21.631111|wikidata=Q3125051}} (Μετέωρα) — hilltop monasteries *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mount Athos]]|lat=40.157222|long=24.326389|wikidata=Q130321}} (Άθως, ''Áthos'') — semi-independent republic, home to many Orthodox monasteries (access restricted) *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mykonos]]|lat=37.45|long=25.35|wikidata=Q190210}} (Μύκονος) — world famous, sophisticated holidays *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Olympia (Greece)|Olympia]]|lat=37.638|long=21.63|wikidata=Q38888}} (Ὀλυμπία) — sanctuary dedicated to Zeus, site of the ancient Olympics *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Rhodes]]|lat=36.166667|long=28|wikidata=Q43048}} (Ρόδος, ''Ródos'') — island with ancient monuments, as well as beaches *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Santorini]]|lat=36.416667|long=25.433333|wikidata=Q129296}} (Σαντορίνη or Θήρα, ''Thira'') — a volcanic island known for its beautiful views, towns and sunsets See also the [[UNESCO World Heritage List#Greece|UNESCO World Heritage]] sites in Greece ==Understand== {{quickbar| location= LocationGreece.png}} Visitors are drawn to the country's beaches and reliable sunny summer weather, its nightlife, historical sites and natural beauty. In 2018, Greece received 33 million visitors, more than three visitors for each of the country's residents. [[File:Santorini wv.jpg|thumb|260px|Backstreets of charming Firá, Santoríni]] The majority of visitors come to Greece from other European countries, although tourists from other world regions have been increasing in number. The vast majority of visitors visit from April through to October. Peak season is between May and September when approximately 75% of all tourists arrive. Most of the tourists and tourism industry are concentrated in [[Crete]], the [[Dodecanese]], [[Cyclades]], and [[Western Greek Islands]], and to a lesser extent the [[Peloponnese]] and the [[Halkidiki]] peninsula in [[Macedonia (Greece)|Macedonia]]. There are still many rewarding areas in the country free of large-scale tourism. Many first-time visitors arrive in Greece with specific images in mind and are surprised to discover a country with such regional and architectural diversity. The famous whitewashed homes and charming blue-domed churches only characterise a specific region of the country (the [[Cyclades]] Islands). Architecture varies greatly from one region to the next depending on the local history. Visitors will find Neoclassical architecture in the cities of Ermoupolis and [[Nafplion]], Ottoman-influenced buildings in Grevená and Kozáni, whitewashed Cycladic homes on the island of [[Paros]], and pastel-coloured baroque homes and churches on [[Corfu]]. The nation's terrain is just as varied as its architectural heritage: idyllic beaches, towering mountain ranges, wine-producing valleys, vast stretches of olive orchards in the south, and lush forests in the north. Greece's historical sights are just as varied; the country is littered with just as many medieval churches and castles as classical ruins and temples. It borders [[Albania]], [[North Macedonia]], [[Bulgaria]], and [[Turkey]]. ===History=== {{seealso|Ancient Greece}} Greece boasts a very long history, with the Greek language being spoken in the country and throughout the Mediterranean region for nearly 4000 years. Greeks are very proud of their ancient heritage and see it as one of the defining elements of their national identity. ====First civilisations==== The country's first inhabitants are now referred to as the Pelasgians. Little is known about them, but it is believed that they were a primitive people. The first advanced civilisations in Greece are known as the '''Cycladic''' in the [[Cyclades Islands]], and the '''Minoan''' in [[Crete]] and [[Santorini]]. The Minoans had a written language which remains undecipherable to archaeologists, which is one of the most interesting and profound historical mysteries. ====Dark Ages==== '''Greek-speaking Indo-European peoples''' arrived in the country from somewhere to the north, around 1700 BC, and slowly invaded the entire country from the north all the way to [[Crete]], as well as the west coast of Asia Minor (now [[Turkey]]), absorbing the native peoples. Their arrival may have been responsible for ending the Cycladic and Minoan civilisations and brought the country into what is now referred to as the Dark Age of ancient Greece; although it is now understood among historians that civilisation in Greece remained sophisticated and advanced during this time. The first Greek-speaking civilisation, Mycenean, was centred in the Peloponnese region. As they do today, many ancient Greeks made a living from the sea. They were accomplished fishers, sailors and traders and the sea has profoundly shaped Greek culture. [[File:Olympia1.JPG|thumb|400px|Olympia, site of the Olympic Games in ancient times]] ====Classical Greece==== {{seealso|Trojan War}} The rise of the Greek city-states occurred in the period 1200 to 800&nbsp;BC and heralded the '''Golden Age of Greece,''' which lasted many centuries and spurred several scientific, architectural, political, economic, artistic, and literary achievements. [[Athens]], [[Sparta]], [[Corinth]], and [[Thebes (Greece)|Thebes]] were the most prominent of the city-states (with Athens being the most prestigious), but there were several other advanced city-states and colonies that had developed across the Aegean basin. Greek settlements were also established in southern Italy and other coastal areas of the Mediterranean colonised by Greeks. The legacy of Greek Civilisation from this time period made a major impact on the world and continues to influence us to this day with the development of democracy, philosophy and theatre. ====Hellenistic and Roman eras==== The epicentre of Greek Civilisation shifted, during the 4th century BC, from southern Greece to northern Greece. The northern Macedonian kingdom, under '''[[Alexander the Great]],''' conquered all of Greece, and proceeded eastward, conquering all the way to South Asia with the intent of expanding the Greek empire. The empire broke up after Alexander's death, and Greece was eventually annexed by the growing [[Roman Empire]]. Although weakened politically, Greek culture continued to flourish under Roman rule and indeed heavily influenced Roman culture. ====Arrival of Christianity and rise of Byzantine Empire==== Christianity arrived in Greece with the preachings of St. Paul during the 1st century AD, and eventually spread throughout Greece and the Roman Empire. In the 4th century, Roman Emperor Constantine the Great legalised Christian worship and declared it the state religion of the empire. He moved the capital of the empire from Rome to Byzantium (present-day Istanbul), which he renamed Constantinople. Internal divisions eventually divided the Roman Empire into a western half (the West Roman Empire) and an eastern half (East Roman Empire.) The West was eventually invaded and sacked by invaders from northern Europe, while the East survived for another millennium as the Byzantine Empire with Constantinople as its capital. ====Medieval Greece==== Greece's medieval history is dominated by the '''Byzantine Empire''' which revolved around Christianity, Greek Language and Roman law. It was a powerful force in the Mediterranean basin for centuries, engaging in trade, politics, and the spread of Christianity. The empire collaborated with Rome during the Crusades against the Muslims. However, during the 13th century, the Crusaders turned on the Byzantine Empire itself and sacked Constantinople. With a weakened Byzantine Empire, Frankish and Latin invaders arrived and occupied various parts of Greece. Over the following centuries, the Byzantine Empire began to regain strength and reconquer lost territory, but received a final blow in the 15th century when a growing Ottoman Turkish Empire to the east captured Constantinople. ====Ottoman rule==== With the capture of Constantinople, Greece fell under '''[[Ottoman Empire|Ottoman Turkish rule]],''' but vigorously retained its Greek-speaking Christian culture. However, many Greeks fled the country, establishing Greek communities elsewhere in Europe; these communities would later influence the Greek Revolution. ====Enlightenment and revolution==== The '''[[Medieval and Renaissance Italy|Italian city-states]]''' of [[Genoa]] and [[Venice]] competed with the Ottoman Turks for control of various areas of Greece and managed to conquer various islands and coastal areas, bringing pan-European movements such as the Renaissance (and later the Enlightenment) to places in Greece such as Crete, Corfu, and parts of the Peloponnese region. In the 18th century, the Enlightenment, both in Venetian/Genoese-occupied areas of Greece and from Greek communities abroad, led to an awakening among prominent Greeks and gave birth to the goal of an independent, unified, and sovereign Greek state. The Greek Revolution finally broke out on the 25th of March, 1821, and led to a long war against the Ottomans for independence. The Greek Revolution gained attention across Europe, with [[Russia]], [[Britain]], and [[France]] sending military aid to assist Greece. [[File:Plaka2.JPG|thumb|400px|Athens' Pláka district, with its 19th century character]] ====19th to mid-20th century ==== The nation finally achieved its '''independence''' from the Ottoman Empire in 1829. The newly-independent Greek State was briefly a republic, before becoming a monarchy at the will of major European powers. During the second half of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, Greece gradually annexed neighbouring islands and territories with Greek-speaking populations. However, its try at Asia Minor ended in defeat and a large-scale exodus from Turkey to Greece. The instability that followed led to a military coup, reinstatement of monarchy and an authoritarian rule. About 15,000 people were arrested and jailed or exiled for political reasons during the ''4th of August Regime'' 1936–1941. The country sided with the allies during [[World War I]]. Despite declaring neutrality during [[World War II in Europe|World War II]], the country was invaded by Mussolini's forces on 28 October 1940. Greek forces victoriously pushed the Italians out of Greece, but the Germans then came to their aid, occupying the country until its liberation toward the end of the war. The resistance movement was one of the strongest in Nazi-occupied Europe, controlling much of the countryside, and the occupation brutal. Civil war broke out in 1946 between communist rebels and royalists, the former supported by Yugoslavia (until the Tito-Stalin rift of 1948) and the latter by the West. The communist rebels were defeated by the royalists in 1949. The second world war and the civil war that followed had left the country war-torn, forcing many people to flee the country in search of a better life abroad. Greece joined NATO in 1952; rapid economic growth and social change followed. A right-wing military dictatorship staged a coup in 1967, disbanding all political parties, suspending political liberties and forcing many prominent Greeks into exile, including Communists, who played an active part in the Greek Parliament before and after the junta. King Constantine II and his family also fled the country. Democracy returned in 1974, and a national referendum abolished the monarchy, creating a parliamentary republic. ====Modern Greece==== Greece joined the European Community in 1981, which later became the European Union (EU) in 1992. The country's tourism industry – which had begun to take off during the 1960s – began to flourish, bringing 5 million annual visitors to the country in 1980 (a figure that eventually grew to over 17 million by 2007). The country suffered serious economic stagnation in the 1980s, but began to experience remarkable economic growth in the 1990s, fuelled by heavy investment, entrepreneurship, trade, and EU aid. By the early 21st century, Greece had seemingly achieved stability and prosperity, with a high standard of living. An influx of immigrants began in the late 1980s, transforming Greece, once an immigrant-sender, into an immigrant-receiving country. Foreign-born residents, most of them undocumented and coming from various parts of the world (Eastern and Central Europe, Middle East, South and Southeast Asia, and Africa) are estimated to number at least 1 million, or equivalent to 10% of the population. In 2004, the nation stepped into the global spotlight as it successfully hosted the Summer Olympic Games in Athens, to the defiance of critics. Greece however, has borne the brunt of the late-2000s recession and related 2010 European sovereign debt crisis. The main issues facing Greek society are a high and growing level of bureaucratic corruption, high unemployment, sluggish economic growth and widespread poverty. As a by-product of the ongoing economic depression, there has also been a rise in extremism. Particularly worrying is the rise in support for Golden Dawn, a violently xenophobic opposition party that has often been described as neo-Nazi, some of whose members of Parliament have been arrested for beating foreigners in the street, and which has reportedly gained a considerable degree of control over some Greek police forces. This is unlikely to affect most travellers, but if you could be mistaken for a refugee or illegal migrant to Greece, think twice about whether now is the right time to visit (also refer to [[#Stay safe|&sect; Stay safe]]). As of 2020, this party has been declared a criminal organization, and has ceased to exist, with most of its important members found guilty in court and sentenced to prison. ===Climate=== Despite its small size, Greece has a '''varied climate.''' Most of the country, including all coastal areas, enjoys a so-called '''Mediterranean climate,''' almost identical to much of California. Summers are hot and dry with a 7-month period of near-constant sunshine generally from April until November. The remainder of the year is characterised by a relatively cold, rainy period which generally starts sometime in November and lasts until late March or early April. Sporadic rains do occur during the dry season, but they tend to be rare, quick showers. The country’s Ionian Coast and Ionian Islands tend to receive more annual precipitation than the rest of the country. The islands in the southern Aegean and parts of the southeastern mainland are the driest areas of the country. The '''most pleasant weather''' occurs in May–June and September–October. The warmest time of the year starts in mid-July and generally lasts until mid-August, when the annual ''meltémi'' winds from the north cool the country. Mid-July to mid-August is the height of summer, and the midday sun tends to get very strong; during this time, most Greeks avoid heavy physical activity outdoors between 13:00 and 17:00. It is best advised to get in tune with the local way of life by waking up early, doing all sightseeing and errands in the cool morning hours, and then spending the afternoon in the relaxing shade or at the beach. In fact, the bulk of tourists arrive in Greece during the height of summer, to do just that! For visitors from more northerly climates, the off season from November through February can be a rewarding time to see Greece. It will not be beach weather, but temperatures are mild. The much added bonus is that there will be very few other tourists and reduced prices. '''Summer evenings''' tend to be ''very'' rewarding. As strong as the sun may get on a summer afternoon, the low levels of atmospheric humidity in most areas of the country prevent the air from trapping much heat, and temperatures tend to dip to very pleasant levels in the evenings. But even during midday, high temperatures actually tend to be quite comfortable as long as the time is not spent doing a lot of walking or other physical activity. (Athens, however, can still be uncomfortably warm during summer afternoons due to the predominance of concrete in the city, an effect similar to New York City.) Coastal areas near open waters (away from tightly-closed bays and gulfs), especially on many of the islands, tend to be quite breezy, and can be quite cold at night. While the Mediterranean climate characterises most of the country, '''two other climate systems''' are present. One is the cool Alpine climate which is found on mountainous areas of the country's interior, including many high-altitude valleys. Another system is the Continental climate found on the interiors of north-central and northeastern Greece, which gives those areas very cold winters and warm, relatively humid summers. Greek weather forecast given [http://www.hnms.gr/ here] <!--should this be linked?--> ===Holidays and festivals=== [[File:Easter in Santorini.jpg|thumb|Easter Mass in [[Santorini]]]] The following are national public holidays: *'''New Year's Day''' - 1 Jan *'''Epiphany''' - 6 Jan *'''Clean Monday''' (First day of Lent) - movable *'''Independence Day''' and '''The Annunciation''' - 25 Mar *'''Holy Friday''' - movable *'''Pascha Sunday''' - movable *'''Pascha Monday''' - movable *'''May Day / Labour Day''' - 1 May *'''Pentecost Sunday''' - movable *'''Pentecost Monday''' - movable *'''Dormition of the Theotokos''' - 15 Aug *'''WWII Day / "OHI(no) Day"''' - 28 Oct *'''Christmas''' - 25 Dec *'''Boxing Day''' - 26 Dec The nation's three most important holidays are Christmas, Pascha, and the Dormition. Christmas tends to be a private, family holiday, but lights and decorations adorn city squares across the country. Dormition is a major summer festival for many towns and islands. Pascha weekend is perhaps the most flamboyant of all holidays; religious processions on Holy Friday and the following Saturday evening culminate in exuberant fireworks at midnight, Easter morning. Contrary to most national holidays in other countries, '''Independence Day''' in Greece is a very sober holiday. There is a school flag parade in every town and village and a big armed forces parade in Athens. Although not an official holiday, pre-Lenten '''carnival''' - or ''apókries'' - is a major celebration in cities throughout the country, with [[Patras]] and [[Xanthi]] hosting the country's largest and most famous events. Carnival season comes to an extravagant ending the weekend before Lent begins, with costumes, float parades, and various regional traditions. In addition to nation-wide holidays and celebrations, many towns and regions have their own ''regional'' festivals commemorating various historical events, local patron saints, or wine harvests. The Greek Orthodox Church uses a different method to determine the date of Easter from the Roman Catholic Church and the Protestant churches. Therefore, Greek Orthodox Pascha and, derived from that, Holy Week and Pentecost usually fall one or two weeks later than their Roman Catholic and Protestant counterparts, but they do sometimes coincide (as in 2010, 2011, 2014, 2017 and 2025). ===Visitor information === * [https://www.visitgreece.gr/ Visit Greece] ==Talk== {{seealso|Greek phrasebook}} '''[[Greek phrasebook|Greek]]''' is the official national language and is the native tongue of the vast majority of the population, although the English speaking visitor will encounter no significant language problem. English is the most widely studied and understood foreign language in Greece, followed by [[French phrasebook|French]], [[Italian phrasebook|Italian]], and [[German phrasebook|German]]. Basic knowledge of English can be expected from almost all in the tourism industry and public transport services. Learning a few Greek terms, such as "hello" and "thank you" will be warmly received. The Latin and Cyrillic alphabets were derived from the Greek alphabet and about half of Greek letters look like their Latin counterparts, and most Greek letters resemble their Cyrillic counterparts. With a bit of study it's not ''too'' hard to decipher written names. You'll find that place names on road signs throughout the country are often transliterated into Latin letters (some signs, especially on the newer roads, are even outright translated into English). As true throughout Greece, you will find multiple spellings for the same place because of the transliteration from the Greek to Roman alphabet and because Greek grammar rules change the word's spelling depending on whether it is the subject or object of a verb, or to indicate possession (each of these also change the pronunciation), and because of the language reform in 1976. You will see road sign and place names on maps that spell the same place different ways. Sometimes a place will be spelled how it is pronounced, sometimes it will be spelled using Roman letter substitutions. So you will see Heraklion, Iraklion, Heraklio and Iraklio for Ηράκλειο and Rethymnon, Rethymno, Rethimnon and Rethimno for Ρέθυμνο. ==Get in== ===Entry requirements=== {{Schengen}} Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Mauritius, Saint Kitts and Nevis and Seychelles are permitted to work in Greece without the need to obtain a visa or any further authorisation for the period of their 90 day visa-free stay. However, this ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries. For detailed regulations applied to your country, refer to the [https://www.mfa.gr/en/visas/visas-for-foreigners-traveling-to-greece/ Greek Ministry for Foreign Affairs]. ===By plane=== [[File:20140419 athens airport16.JPG|thumb|Aircraft at Athens airport]] ' '''Elefthérios Venizélos International Airport''' in [[Athens]], is the country's largest, busiest airport and main hub, handling over 28 million passengers annually as of 2023, with flights from all over Europe, and the Middle East. Further destinations are China and Singapore. From April to October, American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines and Air Canada operates flights from North America to Athens. Another airport which has international flights all year round is '''Macedonia Airport''' in [[Thessaloniki]], that has flights all over Europe. To the Greek islands such as [[Rhodes]], [[Crete]], [[Kos]], [[Corfu]], [[Santorini]], [[Zakynthos]], and [[Mykonos]] has flights from all over Europe during the summer season, mainly charter flights and low-cost flights, but also regular flights. When during the winter season, the only option to reach them is only by domestic flight. ===By train=== As of 2022, there are no long-distance international passenger services to Greece. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, there used to be overnight trains from [[Belgrade]], [[Bucharest]] and [[Sofia]] to [[Thessaloniki]]. International trains might be resumed but there is no confirmation on when. An exception to this is that from November 2022 a regional service between [[Florina]] and [[Bitola]] in [[North Macedonia]] will commence. Travellers with an [https://www.interrail.eu/en '''Interrail pass'''] may obtain a discount on certain ferry crossings from Italy. ===By car=== Greece can be entered by car from any of its land neighbours. From Italy, ferries will transport cars and passengers to Greece (see by boat section). From western Europe, the most popular route to Greece was through Yugoslavia. Following the troubles in the former Yugoslavia during the 1990s, most motorists from western Europe came overland by Italy, and then took a trans-Adriatic ferry from there. Although the countries of the former Yugoslavia have since stabilized, and Hungary-Romania-Bulgaria form another, albeit a much longer, alternative, the overland route through Italy now remains the most popular option. ===By bus=== There is '''international bus service''' in Greece mostly from Thessaloniki, with some companies also having routes starting from Athens. All of the Balkan countries (except [[Bosnia and Herzegovina|Bosnia]] and [[Croatia]]) can be reached from the Greece, along with [[Turkey]], [[Hungary]] and [[Germany]]. === By boat === {{seealso|Ferries in the Mediterranean}} From [[Italy]], main sea routes of the Adriatic connect the ports of [[Venice]], [[Ancona]], [[Bari]] and [[Brindisi]] of Italy to [[Patras]] and [[Igoumenitsa]] in mainland Greece. Several ferries also connect Italy to the [[Ionian Islands]], though mostly during summer months. Trip duration varies from a minimum of about 8 hours Brindisi to Igoumenitsa, to a maximum 26 hours from Venice to Patras. Multiple ferries depart for Greece daily. From [[Turkey]] there are ferries from [[Marmaris]] to [[Rhodes]], from [[Çeşme]] (near [[Izmir]]) to [[Chios]], from [[Bodrum]] to [[Kos]], from [[Kusadasi]] to [[Samos]]. From July 2019 a ferry sails overnight between [[Lavrio]] near Athens and Çeşme in Turkey, operated by [https://aegeanseaways.com Aegean Seaways] {{dead link|December 2020}}. There are also ferries connecting [[Piraeus]] (Athens) and Rhodes to [[Alexandria]] ([[Egypt]]), [[Larnaca]] and [[Limassol]] ([[Cyprus]]), and [[Haifa]] ([[Israel]]). When travelling '''with your own boat''', Greece can be a quite difficult country to visit. The ''free movement'' spirit of Schengen and EU seems to be very broken when arriving to Greece, even from another Schengen country, at least if your boat flies a non-EU flag (even that of a Schengen member): * It's needed to pay a special boating tax (TEPAI). It should be paid the latest on the day of arrival to Greek waters. The fine for not having paid the TEPAI tax is quite high. The TEPAI can be paid [https://www1.aade.gr/aadeapps2/etepai/ online.] This fee should be paid for each calendar month one stays in Greece, so be careful not to arrive at the very end of a month. * A boat with an EU-flag may need documentation that VAT is paid. As Polish flag-of-convenience has become common in the Mediterranean sea, boats with Polish flag will frequently be asked to produce such documentation. * If the boat has an EU flag and is sailed directly from a Schengen country it's not needed with any check-in, but it's mandatory to have an updated crew list on board at all times. * It's mandatory to have a good liability insurance, and some officials will demand that they explicitly states that the coverage is in accordance with Greek laws. Most insurance companies in Greece will only offer insurance for residents of Greece, so if you can't obtain insurance explicitly valid for Greece in your home country, you may end up stuck at some port, not being allowed to leave - even with insurance documents that already was approved in several harbours. Worse yet, in some ports you risk a big fine if you cannot prove you already had the insurance in order on the day of arrival to Greece. The insurance company Interlife offers insurance for non-residents, send an email to info@interlife.gr. While they are able to issue insurances reasonably fast, it's advisable to start the process a week before arriving to Greece to be sure to have this in order. * Boats with flag from outside the EU needs to check-in in a valid port of entry, visit the customs office, and buy a transit log and has it stamped by the port police in every harbour visited(!), both on entry and departure. In some curstom offices they may demand that you interface with them through an agent. At the plus side, most officials have a pretty laid-back attitude, many harbours are for free or costs 10-15 EUR for a night even for a relatively big boat, particularly outside the season it can be easy and cheap to stay in a harbour. ==Get around== [[File:Greece satellite-01.jpg|thumb|With 3,000 islands, many of which are popular destinations, getting around Greece often entails boat or plane travel]] A frequently asked question of travellers in Greece is whether they should '''rent a car.''' The primary advantage of having a car is that you can cover a lot more ground per day if you're travelling in rural areas or on the larger islands: you can get almost anywhere in Greece by bus, but some isolated villages may only have one or two buses per day, and having your own car means you don't have to wait in the summer heat for the bus to come. Almost all archaeological sites are accessible by bus, but at some of the more remote, less famous, sites, the bus may drop you off up to a mile away from the site, while with a car you can almost always get right to the site via at least a rough road. On the other hand, '''going car-free''' in Greece is not only possible, but offers significant advantages, while driving involves a number of disadvantages. Though many people find driving in Greece easy and even pleasant, others are concerned by the high accident rate (one of the highest in Europe), the national reputation for risky driving, and the presence of many twisty mountainous roads, sometimes hugging the side of a cliff. Gas is as expensive as anywhere. (For more on driving conditions in Greece see below.) Driving in Athens and other big cities can be a frustrating, and sometimes hair-raising, experience, and finding parking can be very difficult. And having a car greatly restricts your flexibility when island-hopping, since only the larger, and usually slower, ferries offer car transport, which must be paid for in addition to your passenger ticket. Travelling by bus is not only cheaper but offers a greater chance of striking up conversations with both locals and other travellers than going by car. Language is not usually a problem for English speakers in using public transit: wherever there is significant tourism in Greece bus schedules are posted in English, and bus drivers and conductors, as well as taxi drivers, will understand at least enough English to answer your questions Public transport can be supplemented by '''taxis''' (see below), which in many places, especially the islands, offer fixed rates to various beaches, which can be affordable especially if the price is shared among several people. And on many islands it's possible to get places by '''walking,''' which can be a pleasant experience in itself. ===By bus=== Intercity buses are a very popular option for domestic travel. '''KTEL''' is the national government-subsidized network of independent businesses which cooperate together to form a dense route system serving almost the entire country. The system is efficient, reliable, and relatively inexpensive. It serves both long and short distances, including routes from major cities to islands near the mainland, such as Corfu and Cephalonia (in such cases, the ferry crossing is included in the price of the bus ticket). As KTEL companies operate independently, the quality of information available online greatly varies between each one. Most companies now support online booking, at least for routes between major cities. ===By train=== The railway system in Greece is very underdeveloped compared to other European countries and most of the rail traffic is in the Athens - Thessaloniki corridor and in the suburban railways of these cities. The three other lines (Thessaloniki - Florina, Lamia - Trikala and Thessaloniki - Serres) usually have one or two trains running per day and are non-electrified with low speeds, so it is usually better to take a bus than a train. There are however multiple projects underway to greatly improve the country's railways scheduled to complete in phases from 2025 to 2027. Tickets can be booked via the '''[https://www.hellenictrain.gr/ Hellenic Train]''' website. ===By car=== Exploring the country by car can be an extremely rewarding experience, allowing you to explore the incredibly scenic and varied terrain of the country's coastlines, interior, and islands, at your convenience. Roads are usually well-marked and well-maintained, and billions of euros are being poured into expanding the nation's network of multi-lane freeways. Because of the rapid expansion and improvement of the nation's road system, it is advised to have the most updated road maps possible. Many of the newer motorways are toll roads, and fees can be expensive. Road signs in Greek are usually repeated with a transliterated version in the Latin alphabet. Drivers who do not hold an EU driving licence must carry an international driver's permit obtained in their home country. This may not be required when renting a car, but will certainly be required if the driver is involved in an accident or pulled over by the police for a traffic citation. Insurance policies may be void if the driver is a non-EU driver without an international permit. Petrol prices are steep, but relatively inexpensive in comparison with many other EU countries. For those used to driving in North America, driving in Greece can be a challenge. To them Greek (and other European) drivers might appear aggressive. Also the nation's topographic reality poses challenges by forcing many narrow roads in mountainous regions to take several twists and turns. Roads in towns and villages can be surprisingly narrow as well. If cars meet on a narrow stretch of road it is customary for one driver to find a spot to pull over and let the other driver pass. At times, one driver will need to back up for the other. Adherence to this practice is expected and failure to do so will bring the ire of your fellow drivers. Drive slowly through villages and small towns, because there are often pedestrians in the roadway. Another major difference between driving in North America and Greece is the range of speeds at which vehicles travel, particularly on the highways. While speed limits are as high as 120 km/h (75 mph), some vehicles will be travelling as slowly as 60 km/h (40 mph). Other vehicles will travel at speeds well in excess of the posted limits and can come up from behind very quickly. ===By rental car=== Car rental offices are present throughout Greece, especially in major cities and in highly touristed areas. About 90% of rental cars are manual, for automatics it is advised to reserve one in advance. Some companies use vehicle classification scale from A to Z instead of the four-letter SIPP/[https://www.acriss.org/car-codes/ ACRISS] codes. Often rental terms restrict taking the vehicle on ferries. Larger car rental companies in addition to well known names like Avis/Budget, Europcar, Hertz/Firefly, Enterprise and SixT include [https://www.abbycarhire.com Abbycar], [https://www.autounion.gr AutoUnion], [https://www.kosmos-carrental.com/en Kosmo Car Rental] and [https://caldera.com.gr Caldera]. Cheaper companies such as Greennmotion achieve lower cost by not having a real rental desk at airport, lesser trained and knowledgeable staff, instead having sign-and-greet, then a shuttle bus to bring customers to their "airport office" which is some distance away, so their lower prices are not without drawbacks. And online reviews have noted some companies' propensity to deceive customers through bait and switch, hidden and/or inflated charges. Shoulder season starts from June 1, peaking at July. The rental companies' ratings on broker sites such as Rentalcars.com, Autoeurope.com are not necessarily indicative of their quality of service. So beware of unreasonable rental conditions and unscrupulous agencies trying to attribute existing damages to new renters and inflating repair costs, make sure to do your due diligence, read terms and conditions and inspect the cars very carefully and note down the smallest irregularities before signing, as it is in their interest to not fully inform you of hidden damages. ===By boat=== [[File:Panoramica de Poros.JPG|thumb|An inter-island ferry and smaller boats just outside [[Poros]]]] The frequency, reliability and availability of Greek ferries are largely dependent upon the time of year. For instance, during the winter off-season (January to March), the weather on the Aegean can be extremely rough and boats are often kept in port for days at a time. This type of delay is extremely unpredictable (it is not a decision of the ferry companies, but rather, that of the port authority) and determining when a boat in harbour will actually set sail is near impossible. Therefore, travellers in off-season should build some flexibility into their schedule and not plan on departing an island in the morning and catching a flight home in the afternoon. On the opposite end of the spectrum, ferries in August fill up due to the National Holiday (15 Aug), so travellers should plan ahead. As for '''routes,''' during high-season there are extensive connections from Athens and quite a few in-between islands for "hopping." Again, in the winter, some of these ferries run once, maybe twice a week. Visitors to Greece planning to travel by ferry should be aware of some '''potential complications.''' First, it can't be assumed that you can get from any given island to any other island every day of the week. The Greek ferry system is basically a hub-and-spoke system, with the spokes radiating from Piraeus out to the various island groups. As a result, boats within the groups are fairly frequent, but less so between the groups. Sometime islands which are geographically close together are in different groups: for instance, the Western Cyclades ([[Serifos]], [[Sifnos]], [[Milos]]) look very close on a map to the Central [[Cyclades]] ([[Naxos]], [[Paros]], [[Mykonos]],) but these groups are on different spokes, meaning you can usually in summer get from one island to another in the same group on any day, but boats between the groups, e.g. [[Naxos]] to [[Sifnos]], may be significantly less frequent. Second, trying to find advance information on ferry schedules can be frustrating: there is no single comprehensive source for Greek ferry schedules either in print or on line, though there are private sites run by travel agents or other businesses which claim to give comprehensive schedules, and many of the individual ferry companies have web sites giving their schedules, in some cases offering the ability to book and pay for tickets on line. Ferry schedules are also always posted at the boat ticket offices in departure ports. Next, though getting a ticket usually isn't a problem, some boats to the most popular destinations, especially those leaving at the most convenient times, do sell out in high season or on holiday weekends. Finally, though ferries nowadays usually run on schedule, weather, strikes, and mechanical breakdowns still can occasionally delay them. None of these problems are insuperable, but they do mean you shouldn't try to micromanage your ferry itinerary too strictly in advance: be flexible, and always have a backup plan. And it's always a good idea not to count on taking a ferry from the islands to get back to Athens the same day your plane leaves, even if boat schedules theoretically should enable you to do this: this will ''probably'' work, but there's enough of a chance it won't to make it prudent to plan on getting back to Athens at least one day before your flight. There are three ports in Athens: the main port Piraeus and outlying Rafina and Lavrio port. These serve all islands, but central [[Cyclades]] islands such as [[Tinos]] and [[Mykonos]], it is often better to leave from [[Rafina]]. Ferries are about the one thing in Greece that leave on time so '''be prompt'''. New "fast ferries" are cutting distance times in half but prices are slightly more expensive. Sometimes, it is more practical to fly, especially to [[Crete]] or [[Rhodes]]. However, flights are usually more expensive. [[Santorini]] is 8-hour slow boat from [[Athens]] but the entrance view from the boat is spectacular. The major ferry companies operating in Greece include: * '''[https://aegeanspeedlines.gr/ Aegean Speed Lines] ''' (Cyclades) * '''[https://www.anek.gr/ ANEK Lines]''' (Crete and international) * '''[https://www.bluestarferries.com/ Blue Star Ferries]''' (Italy-Greece and Aegean Islands and Crete) * '''[https://hellenicseaways.gr/ Hellenic Seaways]''' (Cyclades, Argosaronic, North Aegean, Sporades) * '''[https://www.anes.gr/ ANES Ferries]''' (Saronic, Sporades, Rodos Symi Line) * '''[https://www.saronicferries.gr/ Saronic Ferries]''' (Saronic Gulf) * '''[http://www.seajets.gr Seajets]''' (Aegean Islands) * '''[http://www.minoan.gr Minoan Lines]''' (Italy-Greece and Crete) * '''[http://www.saos.gr/ SAOS Ferries]''' (Aegean Islands and northern mailand) * '''[https://www.superfast.com/ Superfast Ferries]''' (Italy-Greece) * '''[http://www.ventouris.gr Ventouris Ferries]''' (Italy-Greece) * '''[http://zanteferries.gr/ Zante Ferries]''' (Cyclades) * '''[https://goldenstarferries.gr/ Golden star Ferries]''' (Cyclades, Sporades) * '''[https://www.levanteferries.com/ Levante Ferries]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (Ionian Islands) * '''[https://kefalonianlines.com/ Kefalonian Lines]''' (Ionian Islands) Schedules and web sites for some very local ferry services may be found on the destination pages for the relevant islands or ports, or you can also decide to rent a sailing boat, motor boat, catamaran or a gulet and explore Greece from a deep blue sea. ===By plane=== Due to the limited train routes and lengthy travel times using the bus or ferries, flying is worth a consideration for travel between the mainland and the islands, as well as the far reaching major destinations at or near the mainland such as [[Corfu]], [[Thessaloniki]], [[Kalamata]], [[Patras]], and [[Kavala]]. In fact, should you book your tickets far in advance, these can cost similar to or even cheaper than the ferries! Most of Greece are reachable within an hour's flight from Athens or Thessaloniki. The nation's domestic air travel industry is dominated by '''[https://www.olympicair.com/ Olympic Air]''', '''[https://www.skyexpress.gr/en/ Sky Express]''', '''[http://www.aegeanair.com Aegean Airlines]''' and low-cost carrier '''[http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair]'''. These airlines offer an extensive route network within the country, including services connecting several islands and the mainland. === By e-hailing === Most commonly used are Uber and Bolt. ===By taxi=== There are many taxis in Greece. Over ten years ago, getting one could be quite a challenge, but not any more. You hail taxis on the street like in any other large city. Transport from the airport to the center of Athens is fixed cost from the taxi line that is outside exit 3 in the arrivals level. Day time fare from 05:00–00:00 cost €38 Night time fare from 00:00–05:00 cost €54 If you need a taxi from the ferry at night from Piraeus, it might not be easy. The drivers who wait outside sometimes are looking to take at least three different individuals going in the same direction so they can charge three fares! If you are two or three people, only one person should hail the cab and then if the driver agrees to take you, have the other(s) jump in. In Greece you don't pay "per capita", unless of course the other passengers are strangers to you and you just happened to stop the same taxi. In this case you pay separately -for example you, your wife and you pay one fare, and the others pay also one fare (one fare for each "group", no matter how many there are in the same company). If you are 4 friends, you pay one fare. The taxi situation has improved since the debt crisis in Greece, but being a tourist might make you vulnerable to "extra" charges (see also the section about the cost of living). ===By boat=== Many major cruise ships visit the islands and there is also the option of hiring your own boat from any main harbour such as Athens, Kos and Lefkas. For those sailors with experience, the Greek Islands provide an idyllic sailing experience with mostly moderate winds and calm waters. An exceptional sailing opportunity with a chance to visit many places in one go. Be aware of the "Meltemi" phenomena though, strong winds coming with little warning. There are several yacht charter companies where one can rent a boat skippered or not. ==See== Few countries can pride themselves on a heritage as important to Western civilization as Greece. A range of first class historic landmarks remind one of the days when the great Greek emperors and writers made their mark on the development of science, literature and democracy. No less than 17 of those monuments are listed as '''World Heritage Sites'''. However, the many charming little islands, sandy beaches and picturesque whitewashed coastal towns are at least as much a reason to come for the millions of tourists that this Mediterranean country receives each year. Apart from that Greece offers a distinct and wonderful flora and fauna, with the odd tortoise appearing on the side of the road more often than you would expect. ===Cultural heritage=== [[File:Mosaic rhodes palace.jpg|thumb|300px|A mosaic in the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of [[Rhodes]]]] : ''So the famous Greek playwright takes his toga for repair, and the tailor recognises him - "Euripides?"'' : ''"Yes" he says, "Eumenides?"'' World famous are the iconic '''[[Athens/Acropolis|Parthenon]]''' in the bustling capital [[Athens]] and the splendid site of '''[[Delphi]]''', where the mighty emperors sought the prophecies of the most prominent oracle in the ancient Greek world. There's the temple of Apollo at '''Bassae''' and the gorgeous old city of '''[[Rhodes]]''', once overlooked by the Colossus of Rhodes. The archaeological site of '''[[Olympos National Park|Olympia]]''' is the birthplace of our modern Olympic Games and the place from where the Olympic flame is sent around the world. The many Eastern Orthodox monasteries of '''[[Meteora]]''' are just stunning to look at, built high on natural sandstone rock pillars. At the small town of '''Vergina''' the ancient site of '''Aigai''' was found, and many valuable artifacts were discovered in several untouched tombs, one of them being the tomb of Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great. Proudly situated on Mt. Taygetos is the ancient town of '''[[Mystras]]''', close to (and often mistaken for) ancient [[Sparta]]. Another great site is the island of '''[[Delos]]''', not far from the popular holiday destination '''[[Mykonos]]'''. According to myths, this is where Apollo and Artemis were born. The island used to be the main Panhellenic sanctuary and is now dotted with archaeological remains. Some major sights are nicely located on one of the beautiful Greek islands, allowing for a delightful combination of sightseeing and relaxing on one of the many fine beaches. '''[[Patmos]]''' is a lovely example, boasting the historic centre '''Chora''', the '''Monastery of Saint John the Theologian''' and the '''Cave of the Apocalypse''', but also some pleasant sea side restaurants with pretty views. '''[[Corfu]]''' has the same characteristics, being a popular holiday destination with good beaches and an impressive historic town centre. The beach towns of '''[[Samos]]''', just a stone's throw away from the [[Turkey|Turkish]] mainland, are a good place to try the islands local wines (famous in the ancient world!). On the island are also the World Heritage '''Temple of Hera''', the remains of the fortified '''port of Pythagoreion''' and the famous '''Tunnel of Eupalinos''', a 1&nbsp;km long subterranean aqueduct built in the 6th century BC. Although not an island, the ancient '''[[Mount Athos]]''' is in the north of Greece, on the peninsula of [[Chalkidiki]]. It's one of the country's most popular tourist regions with excellent beaches, numerous other ancient sites and many charming villages. If you still want more of the historic stuff, admire the massive Sanctuary of Asklepios at '''Epidaurus''' or the Archaeological Sites of '''[[Mycenae|Mycenae and Tiryns]]'''. The Monasteries of Daphni ([[Athens]]), '''Hosios Loukas''' (Beotia) and '''Nea Moni''' (on the island of [[Chios]]) complete the World Heritage listings for Greece. ===Islands=== {{main|Greek Islands}} [[File:Crete beach.jpg|thumb|300px|The beach of Elafonisi, [[Crete]]]] When it comes to Greece's famously gorgeous islands, it's hard to take your pick out of the 6000 options you have, 227 of them being inhabited. Their rocky coast lines, sandy beaches, charming villages, sheltered bays and many yacht harbours make them extremely popular among all kinds of travellers. The large island of '''[[Crete]]''' is a highly popular tourist destination, with landscapes varying from great sandy palm beaches to snow-covered high peaks and stunning river gorges and a good deal of night life in its main tourist towns. If you're looking to party at night, lovely '''[[Mykonos]]''' or '''[[Ios]]''' are good options too. The volcanic island of '''[[Santorini]]''' is one of the most romantic picks and offers some spectacular views. Its whitewashed capital of [[Fira]] is dramatically situated on the edge of a 400m high cliff, overlooking a beautiful blue lagoon. Other popular ones are '''[[Lesbos]], [[Paros]], [[Lefkada]]''' and '''[[Kos]]'''. The '''National Marine Park''' on '''[[Zakynthos]]''' is the primary nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles in the Mediterranean. The rugged, green hills and valleys of '''[[Kefalonia]]''' boast a number of vineyards, and the island's cliffs and beautiful beaches make it a tourist hotspot. For a slightly more authentic and less touristy experience, try '''[[Syros]], [[Amorgos]]''' or any of the other small and less developed islands. But if you want to live the way of life in [[Cyclades]], '''[[Andros]]''' is one of the most original places to visit. ===Seaside resorts=== Greece measures 16,000 kms of its coastline within the waters of the Mediterranean basin. Its seaside resorts include coastal scenery, sandy beaches and a variety of stone-built villages. ==Do== Greece offers not only well-known beach and water sports activities but also highly rewarding hiking areas and opportunities for religious and archaeological tourism. '''Beaches''': In addition to the numerous islands, particularly [[Crete]], [[Rhodes]], [[Corfu]], and [[Kos]], the most famous mainland beaches can be found in [[Chalkidiki]], [[Epirus]], and the [[Peloponnese]]. For nude beaches in Greece, see here. The most popular islands for ''naturist (nudist) beaches'' include Crete, Zakynthos, Rhodes, Gavdos, and Antiparos. '''Archaeological Tourism''': The most renowned archaeological sites are located in Attica (Athens), the Peloponnese, and the islands of Samos, Delos, and Crete. '''Religious Tourism''': The centers of religious tourism are [[Mount Athos]] and the sites that the Apostle Paul visited during his travels, especially [[Philippi]]. The [[Via Egnatia]] in northern Greece is part of the pilgrimage route to Jerusalem. '''Hiking''': The most popular hiking areas are [[Mount Olympus]], the gorges in [[Crete]], the national parks in [[Epirus]], and the less-known [[Rhodope Mountains]]. '''Sailing''': With its more than 1400 islands, Greece is one of the most attractive sailing destinations in the world. You can find countless secluded coves, cozy fishing villages with small ports, or lively promenades in larger harbor towns for evening entertainment, shopping, or making necessary repairs. There are marinas and berths along the coasts, which are still relatively inexpensive compared to France, Italy, or Croatia. While there are only a few marinas, there are small town harbors on the islands that often charge very reasonable fees. However, they do not offer services like showers, toilets, or washing machines. Water and fuel are available in most harbors, but you have to take care of it yourself by inquiring around the harbor. Power connections are almost never available in the small harbors. The harbors are usually situated in the town centers, allowing you to stroll through the streets in the evening or enjoy Greek specialties in local restaurants. The most popular sailing areas in Greece include the [[Ionian Islands]], the [[Cyclades]], the [[Saronic Gulf Islands]], the [[Dodecanese]], and the [[Sporades]]. The [[North Aegean Islands]] are less known, but the distances between islands are greater, which means fewer boats are typically present, making it easier to find anchorages. The Ionian Islands are ideal for novice sailors due to mild winds and short distances. The best times for sailing in the Aegean are spring and autumn, as July and August can bring strong Meltemi winds, reaching up to 8 Beauforts, which are more suitable for experienced skippers. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{Template:Exchange rate euros}} {{Euro}} The euro replaced the ''drachma'' in January 2002. In the Greek language, however, its name is pronounced something like ''EFF-ro''. Euro cents are called ''sent'' in Cyprus but not in Greece, where they are called ''lepta'' (singular ''lepto''). ====ATMs==== ATMs are present almost everywhere, with MasterCard/Cirrus and Visa/Plus being the most widely accepted cards. Many ATM machines may not accept 5-digit pin numbers; ATM card-users with 5-digit pins are advised to change their pin to 4 digits before leaving home. ATMs usually charge €2.50–3 in addition to what your bank demands. This is added to the withdrawn amount and invoiced to your bank, but not dispensed. Thus, the larger the amount withdrawn, the less the fee percentage-wise. ====Cards==== You may get better exchange rates by using credit cards or debit cards directly, instead of exchanging cash. MasterCard, Visa, Maestro and Eurocard are widely accepted across the country in retail stores, hotels, and travel/transportation agencies (including ferry, airline, and car rental agencies), but are not accepted in some restaurants. Local souvenir shops usually require a minimum purchase before allowing you to use your card and may not accept it for special sales or deeply discounted items. ====Money exchange==== Common particularly in larger cities and in any touristed area. In addition to hard currency, they also accept traveller's cheques. There are also automated currency exchange machines in some areas of the country, particularly in Athens airport. Most banks will also exchange euros for some currencies—such as US dollars and UK pounds —often at better rates than currency exchanges. Banks' commission fees for these exchanges are usually structured so that it's more economical to change larger sums than smaller. Usually, only the larger, international-standard hotels will exchange money for their guests. Branches of the Greek bank '''Alphabank''' will exchange Euro American Express Travellers Cheques and US$ American Express Travellers Cheques into euros at their usual bank rates without fee or commission. When changing money in large amounts at a bank or currency exchange, it's a good idea to ask for mostly smaller notes, and nothing larger than a €50. Many businesses are reluctant to accept notes of larger than €50, partly because of a scarcity of change, partly because larger notes have a history of being counterfeited. ===Shopping=== ====Arts and crafts==== Artisan craftsmanship has a millennia-old tradition, but it is advisable to leave the beaten track and drive especially in the islands a few kilometres into the interior to get good goods at good prices. ====Bargaining==== One can bargain on many things, especially on clothing, souvenirs etc. You can also try different spots for what you are interested in buying and see the different prices that the specific item is sold, and pick the cheapest. ====Business hours==== Greece is in the Eurozone. Outside the tourist resorts and apart from the large supermarkets, a long lunch break is usually from about {{time|14:00}} to {{time|17:00}}. Then the shops open again until {{time|20:00}} and sometimes even longer. ====Costs==== Prices are relatively high, especially on islands. '''Petrol''' cost €1.8-2.1/litre as of May 2023. A packet of '''cigarettes''' about €4-5. A loaf of '''bread''' cost about €1. A '''coffee''' in a bar €3-5, a bottle of '''beer''' in a small bar about €4-5, a shot of '''spirits''' about €4-8. You can buy much cheaper water, cheese, milk, ham, fruits, soaps, health care products, et al. in a supermarket such as Lidl, but bread is cheaper in bakeries. Public transport ticket is {{EUR|1.20}} for a ticket that's valid for 90 minutes irrespective of number of transfers in the metro area and €5 or more for destinations out of Athens (for distances greater than 20-30 km). The buses and trains in the cities stop at night; then you need a taxi, ride hailing apps are '''Beat''' and '''TAXI 18300'''. The minimum charge was €3 and €0.80/km, double at night and also double when your destination is outside the city limits. Since June 2022 '''Beat''' also adds an additional €1.2 charge for calling a taxi through the app. There is an extra charge of €3 if you get a taxi from the airport -ask to see the official card with the specific costs for baggages etc. that all the taxis must have. You can eat cheap if you eat "souvlaki" (pork or chicken pieces) for €2 each stick but usually one person needs two of them. '''Taverna'''s are much cheaper than restaurants to get lunch or dinner -you can eat in a taverna spending €12-20 per person. The main dish usually costs €7-12, the salad €7, the coke €2, the "cover charge" depending on the area. [[Tipping]] is usually an extra 10%, but if you get a €3 coffee in a bar, you shouldn't leave 0.20 because it will be considered an insult. Greeks in this case leave either nothing or at least 0.40-0.50 for a €2 charge. If you need '''clothing''', bath suit or shoes, bags, tea shirts etc., the cheapest shops (but by no means the best) are the Chinese which you can find almost in every block in the cities. An acceptable pair of shoes, about €40 (although there are shoes that cost €15 or €300), trousers €20-80. '''Hairdressers''' cost €8-40, usually around €20 if you want to leave satisfied. A ticket to a '''cinema''' costs around €8 per person, with €5-8 for a drink or snack in the intermission. '''Seashores''' are usually free but around Athens many of them charge €4-5 per person. Sometimes in free beaches you pay extra (if you want) in order to use the umbrella or other facilities. If you like Greece and decide to '''rent''' an apartment, don't say you are a tourist, because they will ask you for more - they'll think you don't know the prices. Find a Greek to trust and let them negotiate on your behalf. Greeks pay for two rooms €250-400 in middle class areas, up to €700 for expensive areas (rarely) or down to €180 (also rarely) in areas you don't really want to live in. [[Electricity]] costs about €60-100 a month. For a single person who doesn't work and keep the air conditioning or the heat all day long, and uses washing machine once a week, cooks every day and needs hot water on daily base, gets to pay €80-100 a month. Tap water is about €7-10 a month. Internet and phone at home costs about €25-40 a month. If you cook at home, '''potatoes''' cost €1-2/kg, '''olive oil''' €4.5-6/litre, cooking oil for frying €4/litre, '''tomatoes''' €1-3 (depending on the season), '''meat''' €5-12/kg, '''fresh fishes''' €10-20/kg in the fish market (the frozen meats and fishes are much cheaper), and the '''fruits''' (also depending on the season) €1-5. (All prices in this section as of Feb 2019) ====Kiosks==== There are newsstands (períptero) in every corner of the city, where newspapers, magazines, chilled drinks, confectionery, snacks, tobacco and ice cream can all be bought. ====Markets==== Greece farmers markets (Laikí Agorá) take place at least once a week in every town. Here agricultural products of the region but also the things of daily life are offered. They have a very special flair that you should not miss. Standowners in the big markets are vociferously promoting their products, while the small rural markets are comparatively quiet. One is rarely addressed by the sellers. But there are many other things to discover in the markets. For example olives. Stalls offer the wide selection of pickled olives. It‘s allowed to taste before you buy what you like most. Also very nice are the stalls that offer nuts. A very wide selection of nibbles, you can buy here. Again, tasting is allowed. Of course, there is also a part that offers clothes, shoes, fabrics and jewellery. Here you get the known plagiarism, but also products from Greece. Supermarket chains are ''Skvalenitis'', ''Masoutis'', ''AB Vasilopoulos'', ''Market In'' and ''Economy Market'', smaller mini marts include ''OK Market''. ====Tipping==== Traditionally [[tipping]] in restaurants is not customary in Greece. Rounding of the bill used to work both ways, up or down to the nearest note amount. A tip was considered insulting, and the best way to show appreciation was to come back. In touristy areas this has almost completely vanished, but off the beaten track it is still alive. Tipping is certainly not based on a predetermined percentage. Customers usually leave a tip on the table, varying from a few coins to large amounts of money, according to how satisfied they are by the service, but usually something like €1-2. Tipping taxi drivers is uncommon. Many restaurants bring you a bottle of water and charge you without your having ordered it. Thus, if you do not like this approach, kindly refuse the bottle of water if it is a fresh and newly opened one. Tap water is generally free. ====VAT==== Value Added Tax is charged on most items, usually included in the item's price but some shops offer "Tax Free" shopping to non-EU residents. This means that non-EU residents can ask for a VAT refund at their port of exit in the EU. Ask for your voucher before leaving the shop and show that along with your items to the customs officer upon departure from the EU. ====In general==== Things you might buy at home but are (usually) fresh in Greece include olive oil, fruits (watermelon, cantaloupe, peaches, grapes, strawberries, etc.), feta [[cheese]], and some breads and sweets that are local (see the "Eat" section). As for drinks, "Retsina" and "Tsipouro" are also local, but the first has a peculiar taste and the second is really strong, like "ouzo" and "raki". Don't mix those four with other drinks if you buy some for back home. It's nice to buy small statues and miniatures of ancient Greek art, but search for the cheap ones in various shops - you can almost always find them in half the price. Shops that cater to tourists are always more expensive - a local you can trust could be of great use. Buy definitely a hat for the sun if it's summer and sunblock (see the "Natural dangers" section). ==Eat== {{seealso|Greek cuisine}} [[File:Greece Food Horiatiki.JPG|thumb|Greek (''horiatiki (village) salata'') salad]] Greek cuisine is a blend of indigenous traditions and foreign influences. Neighbouring Italy and Turkey have left a major impact on Greek cuisine, and there are shared dishes with both of these nations. The traditional Greek diet is very Mediterranean, espousing vegetables, herbs, and grains native to the Mediterranean biome. Being a highly maritime nation, the Greeks incorporate plenty of seafood into their diet. Greece is also a major producer and consumer of lamb; beef, pork, and especially chicken are also popular. Olive oil is a staple in Greek cooking, and lemon and tomatoes are common ingredients. Bread and wine are always served at the dinner table. The cuisine in Greece can be radically different from what is offered in Greek restaurants around the world. Greek restaurants abroad tend to cater more to ''customer expectations'' rather than offer a truly authentic Greek dining experience. One example is the famous ''gyros'' (yee-ros), a common item on Greek menus outside Greece. While it ''is'' a popular fast-food item in Greece today, it is a foreign import adapted from the Turkish ''döner kebap'' after World War II. It is considered by Greeks as junk food. It is never served in the home and is generally not found on the menus of non-fast-food restaurants. Greeks live to eat, and eating out is Greece's national pastime and a rewarding experience for visitors; however, not knowing where to go or what to do can dampen the experience. In the past, restaurants that catered mostly to tourists were ''generally'' disappointing. Thankfully, the nation's restaurant industry has grown in sophistication over the past decade, and it is now possible to find excellent restaurants in highly-touristed areas, particularly areas that are popular with ''Greek'' tourists as well. Thus, it remains a good idea to dine where ''Greeks'' dine (Go search them at the times Greeks dine: 21:00-23:00). The best restaurants will offer not only authentic traditional Greek cuisine (along with regional specialities) but Greece's latest culinary trends as well. A good sign of authenticity is when you get a small free dessert when you ask for the bill. Bad signs are when desserts are listed on the menu, large posters depicting food are seen outside or when a waiter is standing outside yelling for clients to come in or taking your plates away while you are still sitting at the table (traditionally everything is left on the table until the customer is gone, even if there is hardly any space left). Restaurants serving international cuisine have also made a presence in the country, offering various options such as Chinese, French, Italian, and international contemporary. ===Vegan and vegetarian=== Restaurants catering strictly to vegans and vegetarians are practically non-existent outside of Athens. However, there are many vegan and vegetarian dishes in Greek cuisine. As a vegan, you'll probably end up ordering '''fava''' every time you go to a taverna but do ask the waiter if there are other vegan dishes on the menu or if the chef could make a vegan-friendly version of a particular dish. In cases when someone is not familiar with the concept of veganism, you may ask if the food you're ordering is νηστίσιμο (nistisimo), i.e. appropriate for people who fast for religious reasons. Such food may still contain honey or even seafood, so make sure to ask. A number of vegan restaurants have opened in and around Athens. Falafel places are also becoming quite popular. There are also many shops with healthy food and a [https://www.bamboovegan.com/ vegan shop], all in addition to ubiquitous fruit and veg shops. But also do not miss the numerous stalls on the side of the road selling delicious local fruits, vegetables and produces. ===Popular local dishes=== [[File:Greece Food Moussaka.JPG|thumb|Moussaka]] The traditional fast foods are '''gyros''' (γύρος, "GHEER-ohs", ''not'' "GY-rohs" as in "gyroscope"), roast pork or chicken (and rarely beef) and fixings wrapped in a fried pita; '''souvlaki''' (σουβλάκι, "soov-LAH-kee"), grilled meat on a skewer; Greek dips such as '''tzatziki''' (τζατζίκι), made of strained yoghurt, olive oil, garlic and finely chopped cucumbers and dill or mint; and '''skordhalia''' (σκορδαλιά), a garlic mashed potato dip which is usually served with deep fried salted cod. With its extensive coastline and islands, Greece has excellent seafood. Try the '''grilled octopus''' and the '''achinosalata''' (sea-urchin eggs in lemon and olive oil). By law, frozen seafood must be marked as such on the menu. Fresh fish, sold by the kilogram, can be very expensive; if you're watching your budget, be sure to ask how much your particular portion will cost before ordering it. '''Greek salad''' (called "country salad" locally, "horiatiki"), a mix of tomatoes, cucumber, feta [[cheese]] and onion &ndash; all sliced &ndash; plus some olives, and occasionally green bell pepper or other vegetables, usually garnished with oregano. Traditionally it is dressed only with olive oil; vinaigrette or lettuce are added only in the most tourist-oriented restaurants. It is the typical summer salad. [[File:Fasolada, 2006.jpg|thumb|Fasolada]] Also consider: * '''moussaka''', a rich oven-baked dish of eggplant, minced meat, tomato and white sauce * '''pastitsio''', a variety of lasagna * '''stifado''', pieces of meat and onion in a wine and cinnamon stew * '''spetzofai''', braised sausage with pepper and tomatoes, a hearty dish from the Mt. Pelion region * '''sahanaki''', fried semi-hard cheese * '''paidakia''', grilled lamb chops, are also popular. (They tend to have a gamier taste and chewier texture than North American lamb chops, which you may or may not like.) * '''creamy peppered cheese''', '''eggplant salad''' or '''fried zucchini''' * '''fasolada''', dry beans stew, sometimes considered Greece's national dish. A variety with a larger bean cultivar is known as "Gigantes". '''Fried potatoes''' (often listed on menus as '''chips''') are a naturalized Greek dish, found almost everywhere. They can be very good when freshly made and served still hot. '''Tzatziki''' is usually a good dip for them, though they are still good on their own. For dessert, ask for '''baklava''', tissue-thin layers of pastry with honey, cinnamon and chopped walnuts; or '''galaktoboureko''', a custard pie similar to mille feuille. Other pastries are also worth tasting. Another must-try is yoghurt with honey: yoghurts in Greece are really different from what you used to see at Danone stores: to start with, genuine yoghurt in Greece has 10% of fat. Fruit such as watermelon is also a common summertime treat. For '''breakfast''', head to local bakeries ('''fourno''') and try fresh '''tiropita''', cheese pie; '''spanakopita''', spinach pie; or '''bougatsa''', custard filled pie, or even a ""horiatiko psomi", a traditional, crusty village type bread that is a household staple, and very tasty on its own too. All are delicious and popular among Greeks for quick breakfast eats. Each bakery does own rendition and you are never disappointed. Go to the next Kafeneion with them and have it there with a Greek coffee to be local. A popular drink is a frappe made with instant Nescafé, water, sugar, and sometimes milk. It is frothed and served over ice. ===Cover fee=== It's common to charge a cover fee in restaurants officially (i.e. stating it in a receipt), such as €0.30 to €2 per person, but if it's tending towards €2 you should really consider eating somewhere else. ===Fast food=== McDonald's and Domino's pizza have made a significant presence in Greece over the past 15 years. However, they face strong competition from the popular local chains and they are not really popular with natives, especially outside Athens. [http://www.goodys.com/ ''Goody's'']{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is the most popular fast-food chain in the country, offering a large variety of fast food meals, with numerous outlets throughout the country. A hamburger with Coke costs €3-5. [http://www.everest.gr/ ''Everest'']{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is a chain which specialises in hand-held snacks. Also in [[Thessaloniki]] you can find ''Subito''. [http://www.flocafe.gr/ ''Flocafé''] is gaining popularity through its coffee and dessert items. There are also many independently-owned fast food businesses that offer typical fast food items, such as gyros. Many of these small businesses tend to be open late at night, and are popular with younger crowds on their way home from a night out. ==Drink== Those wishing to booze in Greece would be well advised to stick to the traditional domestic Greek products discussed below, which are freely available, mostly cheap by European standards, and usually of good quality. Any imported, non-Greek alcoholic beverages are likely to be very expensive if genuine and, if cheap, may well be "bomba," a locally distilled alcohol with flavourings which sometimes, especially in island bars catering to young people, masquerade as whisky, gin, etc. If you drink it, you'll be very sorry. Drink in respectable places where you can see the bartender mix your drink. ===Water=== A glass of water is traditionally served with any drink you order; one glass for each drink, especially with any form of coffee. Sometimes you even get a glass of water first and then you are asked what you want to drink. Sometimes you might as well get a bottle instead of just a glass. In touristy areas you might have to ask for a glass of water if you want one. If you don't get water with a coffee you just stepped into a tourist-trap. Also, if you did not explicitly ask for a bottle instead of a glass, and they try to charge you for it you should refuse. Tap water in most places a tourist would visit is drinkable; if in doubt, ask your hotel. But often though drinkable it doesn't taste very good, especially on some small islands (as it is imported in and heavily chlorinated), and many visitors, like many Greeks, prefer bottled water. By law, water prices in shops must remain within acceptable limits, making it much cheaper than in Anglosphere nations. A half litre of bottled water costs (July 2022) €0.50 if you buy it on the street, and €0.15 if you buy it from the supermarket. ===Wines=== To be able to purchase or drink alcohol in Greece, by law, you must be 17 and photographic ID will be asked for infrequently, especially in venues that sell food (many independent fast food outlets will serve alcohol). Greece, an ancient wine producing country, offers a wide variety of local wines, from indigenous and imported grape varieties, including fortified and even sparkling wines. Greek wines are generally not available on the international market, as production is relatively small, costs are quite high and little remains for export. However, in the past decade Greek wines have won many international prizes, with the rise of a new generation of wineries. Exports are rising as well. Wine (''Krasi'': κρασί / ''oenos'': οίνος) is most Greeks' drink of choice. Almost every taverna has "barrel wine," usually local, which is usually of good quality and a bargain (€6-8/litre, but check this before ordering when you are in a touristy area.). If they have it, try also the '''Imiglyko''' (Half-Sweet) red, even if sweet wine is usually not your preference, it is different from anything you know. '''Retsina''' is a "resinated wine" with a strong, distinctive taste that can take some getting used to; the flavour comes from pine resin, which was once employed as a sealant for wine flasks and bottles. The most well-known and cheap-n-dirty is "Kourtaki Retsina". Bottled wines have gotten increasingly more expensive; some that the beginner may find worth trying are whites from Santorini and reds from Naoussa and Drama. All wines and alcoholic beverages are cheaper in the super markets, but then you can't consume them in a bar, unless you keep them hidden in small bottles and use them very discretely. ===Beer=== Even if beer (''bira'': μπύρα) is consumed all around the country, don't come to Greece for the beer. The only local varieties widely available are Mythos and Alpha, but Greeks drink mostly Northern European beers produced under license in Greece like Heineken and Amstel. Heineken is affectionately known as "green"; order it by saying "Mia Prasini." On the quality front, there is also a microbrewery/restaurant called Craft (2 litre jug also available in large supermarkets), and new organic beer producers like Piraiki Zythopoiia. ===Liquor=== [[File:Ouzo Theiko18v.JPG|thumb|A bottle of ouzo]] The most famous indigenous Greek liquor is '''ouzo''' (ούζο), an anise-flavored strong spirit (37.5%), which is transparent by itself but turns milky white when mixed with water. Mainlanders do not drink ouzo with ice, but tourists and Greek islanders generally do. A 200 ml bottle can be under €2 in supermarkets and rarely goes above €8 even in expensive restaurants. [[Mytilene]] (Lesbos) is particularly famous for its ouzo. A few to try are "Mini" and "Number 12," two of the most popular made in a middle-of-the-road style, "Sans Rival," one of the most strongly anise-flavored ones, "Arvanitis," much lighter, and the potent "Barba Yianni" and "Aphrodite," more expensive and much appreciated by connoisseurs. '''Raki''' or '''tsikoudia''' is the Greek equivalent of the Italian ''grappa'', produced by boiling the remains of the grapes after the wine has been squeezed off. It is quite strong (35-40% of alcohol) and in the summer months it is served cold. It costs very little when one buys it in supermarkets or village stores. The raki producing process has become a male event, as usually men are gathering to produce the raki and get drunk by constantly trying the raki as it comes out warm from the distillery. One raki distillery in working order is exhibited in Ippikos Omilos Irakleiou in [[Heraklion]], but they can be found in most large villages. In northern Greece it is also called ''tsipouro'' (τσίπουρο). In Crete, raki is traditionally considered an after-dinner drink and is often served with fruit as dessert. ===Coffee=== Coffee (kafes: καφές) is an important part of Greek culture. The country is littered with ''kafetéries'' (''kafetéria'' singular) which are cafes that serve as popular hangouts for Greeks, especially among the under-35s. They tend to be pretty trendy -yet relaxed- and serve a variety of beverages from coffee, to wine, beer, spirits, as well as snacks, desserts, and ice cream. In the pleasant months of spring, summer, and fall, all ''kafetéries'' provide outdoor tables/seating and they are busiest with customers in the late afternoon and evening hours. Several ''kafetéries'' also double as bars. ''Kafeneia'' (coffee houses) are ubiquitous, found even in the smallest village, where they traditionally served a function similar to that of the village pub in Ireland. Their clientele tends to be overwhelmingly men over 50, however ''everyone'' is welcome, male or female, young or old, Greek or foreigner; and you will be treated extremely courteously. However, if you're not interested in cultural immersion to ''this'' extent, you may find the ''kafeneia'' pretty boring. Traditionally, coffee is prepared with the grounds left in. It is actually a somewhat lighter version of ''Turkish coffee'' but in Greece it's only known as ''Greek coffee'' - "''ellinikós kafés''" or simply "''ellinikós''." Despite being slightly lighter than the original Turkish coffee, it remains a thick, strong black coffee, served in a small cup either sweetened or unsweetened. If you don't specify, the coffee is usually served moderately sweet. Greek coffee traditionally was made by boiling the grounds and water on a stove in a special small pot called a "briki." More and more now days it's made by simply shooting steam from an espresso machine into the water/coffee mixture in the briki, resulting in an inferior drink. If you find a place that still actually uses a stove burner to make their coffee, you can be sure it's a traditional cafe. During the hot summer months, one of the most popular coffees at the ''kafetéries'' is ''frappé'' (φραπέ): shaken iced instant coffee. This ''is'' actually an original Greek coffee and can be really refreshing, ordered with or without milk, sweetened or unsweetened. Coffee can also be made espresso-style, French press (mainly at hotels), and with modern filter technology. The latter is sometimes known as ''Γαλλικός: gallikos'' ("French") which can lead to some confusion with the press method. It is best to ask for ''φίλτρου: filtrou'', which refers unambiguously to filter coffee. It is best not to ask for ''black coffee'', as it is unlikely that anyone will understand what you are asking for. ''Espresso freddo'' or ''cappuccino freddo'' have gained much popularity the last decade, and these are the most popular coffees throughout Greece. ''Espresso freddo'' is simply espresso + ice; ''cappuccino freddo'' refers to espresso + ice + chill milk foam. They may be served from mousse containers, not prepared to order; be careful to check. ===Iced tea=== In mass-sector taverns and cafe, iced tea typically means instant; ask twice if you prefer brewed ice tea. ==Sleep== If you enjoy the local traditions and charm, unhurried rhythm of living, small, family-run '''pensions''' are the best way to enrich your experience. Owners and personnel there are friendly and open-minded, compared to the impersonal service you normally encounter in large hotels. If you have a bigger budget, renting a '''villa''' is a luxurious and splendid idea. They are normally near or on the beach and provide more space and a great view. In Greece hotels, especially in the islands but also even in Athens and other big cities, tend to be '''simple establishments.''' Rooms are typically small, and bathrooms smaller, with the shower often a hand-held sprayer; if there is a bath-tub, it's often a sit-bath. Sometimes in the most basic places shower curtains are lacking. Closets are often inadequate, and sometimes there is only a wardrobe. On the plus side, such hotels typically have a balcony (though sometimes tiny) or veranda, either private or a large one shared by all the rooms (but these are usually spacious enough not to feel cramped.) Standards of cleanliness are usually good, even in the simpler places. Those who want more luxurious accommodation can usually find it in cities and on the more popular islands but should check the hotel's quality in reliable sources to be sure of what they're getting. Most Greek hotels now, even the smaller ones, have '''websites''' and will take bookings by email, though sometimes fax is a more reliable way to communicate. There are also numerous Greek and international hotel booking services which will make bookings, and sometimes these are cheaper, or have rooms available when the hotel itself says it's sold out. If you're not really particular about choosing a hotel, you can usually find a place on a walk-in basis without too much trouble on all but the most crowded islands, where rooms can be difficult to find at the peak of the season, and even in the shoulder season on weekends and major holidays. If you do get stuck for a room, try a local travel agency (preferably one endorsed by a reputable guidebook) or alternatively, ask at a cafe whether the owner knows of any rooms for rent; often they do. On some islands, though this varies from place to place, the owners of accommodations will '''meet arriving ferries''' to offer rooms. Often they'll have a van there to transport you from the port, and will have brochures to show you. These places are perfectly legitimate, they're sometimes among the best value places. You can negotiate prices, especially when there are a lot of them trying to fill their rooms, and prices in the range of {{EUR|20-25}} for a room or even a studio is not uncommon in mid-season. But they could be anywhere from a few steps away from the port to a mile out of town, so before accepting such an offer it's best to be sure you get a good idea of its location. Places listed in the guide books tend to be booked up in advance and usually get more expensive as soon as they know they are in there! [[File:White Tower of Thessaloniki (2007-06-15).jpg|thumb|The White Tower of Thessaloniki]] Greek rooms typically have '''air conditioning''' nowadays. If this is important to you, ask before booking. Some rooms in old traditional buildings with thick stone walls may not need it. '''Televisions''' are also common, though the picture may be too fuzzy to be much use, and if you get the set to work you may find it receives programs only in Greek. Room phones are rare in the less expensive places. The main problem you're likely to encounter with a Greek hotel room is '''noise.''' Anything on a road is likely to suffer from traffic noise, and even at hotels not on a major road you may find that that "footpath" outside is used as a superhighway by Greece's notoriously loud motorbikes. And tavernas and clubs nearby can be loud. If you're concerned about noise, it makes sense to choose your hotel's location carefully. The quietest ones are likely to be in an old part of the town or village accessible only by stairs which counter the prevailing "if I can drive it there I will drive it there" car and motorbike philosophy. In addition to hotels, almost every popular Greek destination offers '''self-catering accommodations''' called ''studios'' or sometimes ''apartments''—the terms are pretty much interchangeable. Often these are run by hotels: a hotel may include some self-catering units, or the managers of a hotel may also run a separate building of self-catering apartments. Though not listed very often in travel guides, these studios are most certainly a viable option for many travellers. Typically, a studio consists of one large room, usually larger than a hotel room (though sometimes there are multiple rooms,) with a sink, small refrigerator, and two-burner hot-plate. They usually have a private balcony or veranda, a television, and air conditioning, though rarely a room phone and almost never internet access. In contrast to a hotel, they lack a front desk, there is no breakfast or other food service, and there may be maid service only once every two or three days. Studios are often in quieter and more scenic locations than hotels. For those who don't require the full services of a hotel, studios can be an attractive alternative offering better accommodation for the money, and the chance to economize on food by preparing some meals yourself. ==Learn== Being the cradle of Western civilisation, Greeks take education very seriously. Many of the world's greatest minds (e.g. Aristotle, Pythagoras, Plato, Democritus) were from Greece, many Greeks have university degrees, and the country sends many students to universities all over the world. Although this all sounds impressive, Greece isn't a popular destination for foreign students yet. The Greek government is trying to change that, however. Greek universities charge low tuition fees for all students, including international students. The Greek educational system is known for being notoriously difficult, competitive, and painstaking; Greek parents often complain that children get too much homework, and the national Panhellenic exams (known as ''Apolytirion'' and are akin to ''A-Levels'' in the [[United Kingdom]]) are widely criticised for being extremely difficult and gruelling. If there's one thing that attracts students to Greece, it's the affordable cost of living. Costs in Greece are much lower compared to other European countries. [[Athens]] is remarkably cheaper to live in than say, [[Oslo]] in [[Norway]]. The most prestigious universities in the country are as follows: The '''[https://www.auth.gr/en/ Aristotle University of Thessaloniki]''', '''[https://www.ntua.gr/en/ National Technical University of Athens]''', and the '''[https://en.uoa.gr/ National and Kapodistrian University of Athens]'''. '''Students''' from EU countries may enter many sites for free. Students from other countries have their entrance fees reduced. So take your International Student Identity Card with you. === Modern Greek courses === For those interested in '''learning modern [[Greek]],''' there are several schools offering courses in language instruction for foreigners. Most of these are designed for English speakers, but some schools have courses for people with other first languages. Some schools are in Athens, some in Thessaloniki (among them the very good school of Modern Greek language in the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki) while others have centers in the islands offering a residential program that combines language study with a vacation. Some offer individual tutoring in addition to classes. Some well established programs are [https://www.ikariancentre.com/greek-online/ The Hellenic Culture Centre]{{Dead link|date=April 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (an associate of The Ikarian Centre,) and [https://athenscentre.gr/ The Athens Centre]. ==Work== Citizens of European Union or EFTA member countries work in Greece without any restrictions, while citizens of non-EU/EFTA countries, including the United Kingdom, need a work permit to work in Greece. Finding a job in Greece can be a difficult endeavour. There are not enough jobs for people (the unemployment rate in Greece is quite high) and many Greeks have moved abroad for employment opportunities. Despite being a developed country, wages in Greece are rather low. ==Stay safe== ===Crime and theft=== Violent crime and theft rates are low; public disorder is rare, and public drunkenness is generally frowned upon. Visitors should rest assured that this is a safe and friendly destination, but it is always advisable for foreign tourists to exercise basic precautionary measures just as they would at home. There has been a spike in theft (or at least a perceived one), which some locals will not hesitate to blame on the influx of immigrants. The places where the visitor is most likely to encounter crime and theft are overcrowded and popular with tourists. This includes the metro in Athens and tourist resorts thronged with younger foreigners. The more notorious of such places include [[Faliraki]] in [[Rhodes]] (calmed down since a new tough mayor was elected), [[Kavos]] in [[Corfu]], [[Malia]] on [[Crete]], and [[Ios]] (though this last is said to have quieted down a bit.) Most visitors to these places return home safely, but there have been increasing reports from them of theft, public indecency, sexual assault, and alcohol-fueled violence; both the perpetrators and victims are usually young foreigners, though sometimes locals are involved. Authorities have stepped up the police presence in such areas to crack down on these activities. Still, visitors to these places would do well to avoid anything that looks like trouble, especially late at night, and to remember that their own overindulgence in alcohol increases their chance of attracting trouble themselves. ===Scams=== The most commonly reported major [[Common scams|scam]] against travellers is the Greek version of the old clip joint routine. This is reported primarily from central Athens, but also occasionally from other cities and even the larger island towns. A single male traveller will be approached, usually at night in a neighborhood where there are a lot of bars, by a friendly Greek who will strike up a conversation leading to an invitation to go to "this really cool bar I know" for a drink. Once at the bar, they are joined by a couple of winsome ladies who immediately begin ordering drinks, often champagne, until, at the end of the evening, the mark is presented with an astronomical bill, payment of which is enforced by the sudden appearance of a pair of glowering thugs. The reason this scam works is because most Greeks have a tradition of being friendly to visitors, and almost all Greeks who strike up a conversation with you will have no ulterior motives. But if you're a single male traveller approached by a Greek in the circumstances described above, it's safest to politely but firmly decline any invitations. Also don't accept to change your money on the street and if someone asks you if you could change a €20 or €50 note, refuse (you might get a counterfeit note). ===Photography restrictions=== It is strictly forbidden to take photos of military installations or other strategic locations. Authorities will take violations quite seriously. Heed and obey signs prohibiting photography. In fact, it would be best not to take photographs of anything of military significance, including Greek navy ships, or of airports or any aircraft, even civilian ones: Greek authorities can be very sensitive about such things. Many museums prohibit photography without a permit; some prohibit only flash or tripod photography, and many ask visitors not to take photos of objects (statues, etc.) which include people standing by them, as this is considered disrespectful. Officials at museums will rush over to yell at you if they see a camera or even a cell phone in your hand. ===Antiquities=== [[File:Globular aryballos Louvre Ele357.jpg|thumb|Greek Aryballos (a kind of vase) from the 6th century BC]] Greece also has very strict laws concerning the export of antiquities, which can include not only ancient objects but also coins, icons, folk art, and random pieces of stone from archeological sites. Before buying anything which could conceivably be considered an antiquity, you should become familiar with the current laws regarding what can be taken out of the country. Briefly, all objects made before 1830 are considered antiquities and are protected by the Ministry. Do not ever think to export or buy any piece of archeological value because it will be either be a fake or you will be arrested promptly at the airport for trafficking of goods of archeological value. ===Drugs=== Greece has some of the strictest, and most strictly enforced, drug laws in Europe, and tourists are not exempt. No matter what anyone tells you, it is most definitely not cool to do drugs in Greece, including marijuana. Furthermore, such a behaviour is strongly rejected by most locals and will almost certainly cause someone to call the Police and have you arrested. Even a very small quantity is enough to get you in serious trouble. Don't even think of offering even the smallest amount of drug to someone else. You risk being prosecuted with charges of drug dealing, leading to several years of imprisonment! ===Traffic=== The greatest danger to travellers in Greece is probably in the simple process of crossing the street: traffic can be bad even in smaller towns and horrendous in Athens and other Greek cities, and accident rates are high. Caution should be exercised by pedestrians, even when crossing with a walk light. Traffic fatalities were cut by 60% in the ten years leading up to 2018, but in that year 709 people were killed on Greek roads — 64 per million people, which is higher than the average of 49 in the rest of the European Union. Drivers often weave between lanes while speeding. Stay safe. ==Cope== Toilets in public spaces such as restaurants and bars sometimes lack seats over the porcelain, so to avoid direct contact with the toilet's porcelain, you may want to bring disposable toilet seat covers. == Stay healthy == {{cautionbox|Mosquitoes transmitting '''West Nile virus''' appear routinely, even in urban areas like [[Attica]]. Wear long sleeves and/or use repellents in the infested areas. Most infected people don't get any symptoms. In the worst case the infection develops into West Nile fever which can lead to meningitis, encephalitis, damage to the nervous system and death. As of 2019, Greek authorities have declared this a public health issue with 300 infections and 50 deaths from the illness in 2018.}} ===Health care=== The government's austerity program in the 2010s led to a "meltdown" of Greece's previously admired health care system, as the budgets of state-run hospitals have been cut by up to 50%. Many citizens prefer private health care for longer-term hospital stays. Hospitals face shortages of doctors, nurses and basic supplies. However, public health care is free and universal for all citizens, and for all EU nationals upon presentation of an EHIC card (formerly the E111 form). For non-EU nationals, only emergency care is provided for free. A network of '''helicopter ambulances''' serves the islands, transporting patients who need immediate attention to the nearest island or city with a major hospital. The country's '''pharmacies''' and '''medications''' are of top quality, and pharmacists are highly trained experts in their field. Many medications that need a prescription in the UK and US can be purchased without a prescription in Greece. When sick with a simple, common illness, a visit to the pharmacist will provide you with the medication you need. If you are looking for a specific medication, be sure to know its generic name, as brand names might be different. Most pharmacies close on Sundays, but a sign will be posted on the door indicating the nearest pharmacies that are open. Healthcare provision is different to Anglosphere nations in that many specialists are in the community. GPs are replaced by community pathologists. Hotels and tourist agencies can provide advice on where to go if you are ill. ===Sexually transmitted infections=== Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) exist in Greece as elsewhere, and travellers who may engage in sexual activity while visiting Greece should remember that even if one is on vacation and one's sexual partner is also a traveller, perhaps from one's own country, neither of these facts suspend the laws of biology. According to reports in the Greek and British media, unprotected sex among visitors to Greece, with a consequent rise in STIs and unplanned pregnancies, is especially common at the party resorts favoured by younger people, such as [[Ios]], [[Malia]], [[Kavos]], and [[Faliraki]]. Condoms are available at any pharmacy and at many kiosks. ===Natural dangers=== [[File:Rhodos Lindos.jpg|thumb|Beaches and history are two of Greece's biggest draws]] '''Sun and heat''' pose risks that summer visitors should take precautions for. Take a good, light sun hat and sun glasses, and drink plenty of water. In late spring and summer, the government runs public service announcements on television reminding Greeks to wear their '''sunblock''' at the beach. The Mediterranean sun tends to get quite strong, and can burn skin that has not been exposed to the sun for a long time. Any ''excessive'' daily sun exposure can also cause long-term damage to skin. Sunblock and sunscreen are widely available throughout Greece at supermarkets, grocery stores, pharmacies, and special stores selling beach-related items, though they tend to be expensive, and the higher SPF factor blocks can be hard to find. During the hottest months, while visiting archaeological sites, wear tank tops, carry umbrellas, and carry water. Daily high temperatures stay at about 95-100°F (35-38°C). The sun is merciless. Athens has been subject to periodic summer heat waves where the temperature can reach above 100°F (38°C), posing a risk of respiratory problems and heat stroke for some people. Many islands, especially in the [[Cyclades]], have very little shade to ameliorate the summer heat; if hiking around such islands, including going by foot to distant beaches, it's especially important in hot weather to wear a hat and sunscreen, to take water, and to avoid being caught walking during the hottest part of the day. '''Jellyfish''' periodically infest some beaches and their stings can be severe. The red ones are particularly dangerous. '''Sea urchins''' are common along the Greek coast, usually clinging to underwater flat surfaces such as smooth rocks and sea walls. They usually inhabit shallow water so they're easy to see. Care should be taken not to step on them, since their spines can be painful. Don't '''hike cross country''' in Greece alone: even in popular places, the countryside can be surprisingly deserted, and if you get in trouble while you're out of sight of any houses or roads, it could be a long time before anyone notices you. '''Lifeguards''' are rare at Greek beaches, though most of them where people congregate to swim are locally considered safe. Some beaches have shallow water a long way from the shore; others suddenly shelve steeply. If in doubt about safe swimming conditions, ask locally. There are no '''required inoculations''' for Greece and the '''water''' is almost everywhere safe (see above under Drink.) Look for 'Blue Flags' at beaches for the highest quality water (which tend to also have good sand and facilities) ==Respect== Greeks rate politeness with a person's '''behaviour''' and not their words. Furthermore, there is an air of informality; everybody is treated like a cousin. They use their hands to gesture a lot. Have fun with this. Sometimes over-emphasizing politeness in spoken language will only make the person dealing with you think you are pretentious. It's nice to learn basic words like "thank you" (Ευχαριστώ: ef-khah-rees-TOH) or "please" (Παρακαλώ: pah-rah-kah-LOH). Greeks generally consider it proper etiquette to '''let the stranger make the first move.''' You may find that on entering a cafe or passing a group on the street you feel that you're being ignored, but if you take the initiative by saying hello first, you're likely to find that people suddenly turn friendly. In the countryside it is not uncommon that total strangers will greet you, greet them back in kind. Greeks like to smalltalk, and when they get carried away smalltalking, they might even forget what they were doing to begin with, ending up drinking raki with you. Greeks are often incorrectly stereotyped as "lazy". In actuality, Greeks take '''leisure''' very seriously. Don't take perceived laziness or rudeness harshly. Keep in mind that Greeks have a strong work ethic. '''Dress codes''' for churches sometimes include covered shoulders for women and knees covered for both sexes, but generally they don't mind about your clothes as long as they are not very provocative. This tends to be lightly enforced during the height of the summer tourist season, simply due to sheer volume! In any case, appropriate clothing is usually available at the entrance of churches and monasteries, especially the ones receiving most tourist traffic. Just pick it up going in and drop it off on the way out. '''Nudism''': Regulary tourists are annoying the locals, because too much skin is shown at the beaches. Nudity is not so common in the Greek public. Also topless is not accepted outside the tourist areas. Nevertheless there are on all shores of the mainland and on most of the islands [http://www.capnbarefoot.info/start/ ''nudist beaches'']{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} where nudism is tolerated and even ''nudist hotels'' in [[Crete]], [[Rhodes]], [[Kefalonia]], and [[Zakynthos]]. === Social etiquette and breaches === '''Respect for elders''' is very important in Greece. Greeks place a high emphasis on family values and it is common for Greek parents to be intimately involved in the lives of their children. Try to act in a mature, sensible fashion around someone older than you and try not do anything that would make an older person or other authority figure feel challenged. Greeks value '''transparency and loyalty'''. Don't say something if you don't mean it. Don't say "next time" if you know there isn't going to be a "next time". It's common for Greeks to ask you '''personal questions'''. It's completely normal for them to ask about your family life, about your vocation, and the like. It may, however, be crass to discuss someone's religious convictions or their salary, matters which are normally considered private in many parts of the world. Greeks are '''hospitable''' and will go to any length to make you feel comfortable. If you've been offered food by your Greek host(s), '''sample everything on your plate'''. Never say or imply that a Greek person is untrustworthy or unreliable; this is considered insulting. ===Sensitive issues=== Avoid saying that Greece is part of '''Eastern Europe'''. Greece is generally considered part of '''Southern Europe'''. Avoid saying that Greece is a '''Balkan country'''; Greeks generally dislike this label. Avoid making strong comments about '''Greek history''' in general; Greeks take pride in their country's history and are proud of what their country has given to the world. Discussing '''politics''' is not a social faux pas in Greece; in fact, the Greeks may delight you with conversations about how frustrated they are with their government. As is the case in any foreign country, foreign criticism of Greece's government and politicians is seldom appreciated. ==== National issues ==== Given Greece's history of enduring turbulent events, the Greeks exhibit sensitivity towards various historical occurrences. You should avoid discussing the following topics as they can quickly unsettle people: * The '''Macedonian issue''': Greeks consider that the name "Macedonia" is stolen from them and used by Tito's partisans in southern Yugoslavia to address the country created after World War II as a new constituent republic within Yugoslavia by Tito. The Greeks refer to it as "FYRoM" or the "Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia" when dealing with foreigners and as Skopia (The Greek name of the Macedonian capital Skopje) among themselves. In February 2019, the country was officially renamed the Republic of North Macedonia in order to settle the dispute. * The '''military junta''' of the late 1960s to mid 1970s: some groups suffered severe repression and view its leaders with utter resentment. * Avoid making strong comments about the '''Greek debt crisis''' – during the crisis many Greeks lost a great deal of purchasing power, lost their jobs, and moved abroad in search of better opportunities. Never say or imply that the Greeks "deserved" their economic demise; remember there is a clear distinction between Greek people and the Greek government. * Greece's relationship with [[Turkey]] – after centuries of Ottoman occupation and domination, there's still some resentment towards [[Turkey]]. If you happen to be the most ardent Turkophile in the world, '''avoid being overly enthusiastic about Turkey''' in front of Greeks as it can easily arouse strong emotions. * In some circles, Greece being under Ottoman rule and the Greek genocide can very easily incite fierce, passionate, emotional debates. ===Religion=== The '''Greek Orthodox Church''', part of the Eastern Orthodox communion, is the state religion, and nominally adhered to by over 80% of Greeks. However, freedom of religion is also constitutionally guaranteed, and contemporary Greek society is in practice rather secular. Most Greeks do not attend church regularly every Sunday, but instead only show up for important occasions such as Christmas and Easter. That said, the Greek Orthodox Church is still an important part of the Greek national identity, and many Greeks see it as integral to being Greek, so try not to criticise it unless you know your listener well. ===Obscene gestures=== [[File:Single Moutza.jpg|thumb|Avoid doing this in Greece!]] Holding up your palm with your fingers extended outwards is '''rude''' in Greece, and is akin to giving someone the middle finger. This gesture, known as ''Mountza'', is thought to originate from the days of the Byzantine Empire. ===Smoking=== Greeks smoke tremendously, and they see cigarettes as a birthright. Smoking is prohibited by law in all public places like restaurants and cafeterias. A hotline (1142) can be used to report people and establishments breaking the smoking ban, and Greeks have not been shy about using it. You will rarely, if ever, see people smoking in such places and it is best to step outside when you want to smoke. Greece is subject to frequent '''[[forest fires]]''' during the dry summer season, so definitely avoid smoking in forested areas! The penalties for this can be especially severe. === Fire ban === There is a strict fire ban in all of Greece from May 1 until October 31, corresponding to the fire-prone dry season, and this inculdes bans for every outdoor activity that could cause a [[forest fire]], including campfires, bonfires, barbecues/cookouts and fireworks. There are stiff penalties for violating the fire ban, and much stiffer penalties if you start a forest fire, even by accident. ==Connect== ===Phone=== ====Mobile internet==== There are no Internet roaming charges for '''EU citizens''', so you can surf the Internet in Greece as normal with your local sim card. For '''Non-EU citizens''', you can either buy a Greek sim card or use a [https://yesim.app/country/greece/ '''virtual sim cards'''] where you can buy the GB you want as credit at home and then surf the internet anywhere in Greece until the credit is used up. This is easier than buying a Greek sim card. There are at least three mobile carriers, Cosmote, Wind and Vodafone all of which require by law presenting some form of identification in order to activate your prepaid plan. Choose whichever has better reception in your area; GSM 900, GSM 1800 and UMTS 2100 bands are supported. Data usage is cheap. Ask the mobile carrier for more information. Mobile phone carriers support data roaming with 2G, 3G, 4G and LTE technologies. ====Calling==== The cheapest way to call someone abroad – and this is really cheap – is to use a pre-paid calling card and call from a land line anywhere (also from your hotel room). Pre-paid calling cards are sold in many shops and kiosks. The calling card is not much more than a phone number and a pin code, which you dial prior to dialling the usual phone number. If you want to call internationally, ask for an ''international'' calling card. For €1 you can call for about 45 minutes, so buy a card in the cheapest value (which is about €3). Calling someone for half an hour is cheaper than sending one email from an internet café. Cards expire usually 90 days after first use. You can also use this pre-paid calling card at public phone boxes, which are widely available. Mobile phones are prevalent in Greek's communication, and if you need to talk with your fellow travellers it is advised that you buy a local prepaid plan instead of using roaming, as it is far cheaper. ===Internet=== Internet access is widely available throughout the country. Almost all hotels provide internet access, either free or paid. Local coffee shops usually offer free Wi-Fi access, as many other public places do. Feel free to ask for the password, if the network is locked. ===News=== You can have an update from various news agencies that provide Greek news in English like [https://www.amna.gr/en the official Athenian-Macedonian news agency] and [http://www.reuters.com/places/greece Reuters], [https://int.ert.gr/ ΕΡΤ Greek Edition (the public broadcaster)]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.in.gr/english-edition/ IN (the oldest news active Greek news site)] or [http://www.ekathimerini.com/ Kathimerini English Edition (a daily newspaper published in Athens and distributed exclusively with the International New York Times in Greece and Cyprus)] but it's always safer to keep in touch with locals (for example in the case of a fire in a nearby location that you planned to visit). ==Go next== The land border can be crossed to [[Turkey]], [[Bulgaria]], [[North Macedonia]] and [[Albania]]. Greece has ultra-low-cost flights to many European countries, [[Jordan]], [[Israel]], [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]] and to the [[United Arab Emirates]]. {{isPartOf|Europe}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|38.5|23|zoom=7}} {{related|Ferries in the Mediterranean}} nkbqz5uerrap66luzsa2x1qh11jdrxg 0 13465 5090938 5004849 2025-07-10T16:01:30Z 212.127.236.59 /* By train */ central station -> main station. the main station is not centrally located and is not known as a "central station," neither officially nor colloquially. 5090938 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Groningen banner.jpg|caption=Ossenmarkt|otbp=yes}} {{otheruses}} '''Groningen''' is a lively student city in the [[Northern Netherlands]]. It is the capital of a [[Groningen (province)|province]] with the same name and home to about 217,000 inhabitants (2023), making it the largest city in the north. A university town with some 50,000 students gives the city its famous vibe; a pleasant youthful atmosphere, some fine historic heritage and with plenty of things to do. This article includes the former municipality of Haren, with which Groningen merged in 2019. ==Understand== [[File:Groningen - Hoge der A - vanaf de A-brug - Bert Kaufmann.jpg|thumb|387px|Hoge der A, Groningen]] Archaeologists have found traces of habitation from the Neolithic and the later Iron Age. The city appeared in writing in the year 1040 as "Villa Cruoninga", apparently already a place of some significance. The city has a rich history, which can be seen clearly from the Medieval buildings in the downtown area. In the 13th century, when the city was an important trade centre, its inhabitants built a city wall to underline its authority. The city had a strong influence on the surrounding lands and made its dialect a common tongue. The most influential period of the city was the end of the 15th century, when the nearby province of Friesland was administered from Groningen. During those years, the Martini Tower was built, which loomed over the city at (then) 127 m tall, making it the highest building in Europe at the time. The city's independence came to an end when it chose to join forces with the Spanish during the Eighty Years' War in 1594. It was later reconquered, and joined the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands. In 1614, the University of Groningen was founded for religious education. In the same period the city expanded rapidly and a new city wall was built. That city wall was tested during the Third Anglo-Dutch War in 1672, when the city was attacked fiercely by the Bishop of Münster, Bernhard von Galen. The city walls resisted, an event which is celebrated with music and fireworks on 28 August (as "Groningens Ontzet" or "Bommen Berend"). The city did not escape the devastation of World War II. In particular, the main square, Grote Markt, was largely destroyed in April 1945, during the Battle of Groningen, which lasted several days. However, the Martinitoren, its church, the Goudkantoor, and the city hall were not substantially damaged. Nowadays the city of Groningen is nationally renowned for the university, the museum and its vibrant atmosphere. 50% of the citizens are below the age of 30, making this the youngest city in the country. For decades, the bicycle has played a central role in the lives of people in the city, and today accounts for no less than 60% of all traffic movement with more bikes than citizens. {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = 5 | febhigh = 5 | marhigh = 9 | aprhigh = 13 | mayhigh = 17 | junhigh = 20 | julhigh = 22 | aughigh = 22 | sephigh = 19 | octhigh = 14 | novhigh = 9 | dechigh = 5 | janlow = 0 | feblow = -1 | marlow = 1 | aprlow = 3 | maylow = 7 | junlow = 10 | jullow = 12 | auglow = 12 | seplow = 9 | octlow = 6 | novlow = 3 | declow = 0 | janprecip = 74 | febprecip = 51 | marprecip = 64 | aprprecip = 42 | mayprecip = 58 | junprecip = 71 | julprecip = 79 | augprecip = 71 | sepprecip = 78 | octprecip = 74 | novprecip = 75 | decprecip = 73 | jansun = 2 | febsun = 3 | marsun = 4 | aprsun = 6 | maysun = 7 | junsun = 6 | julsun = 7 | augsun = 6 | sepsun = 5 | octsun = 4 | novsun = 2 | decsun = 2 | description =[http://www.weer.nl/verwachting/nederland/groningen/1815144/ 7-day forecast of Groningen] }} ===Climate=== The temperate climate is pleasant in Groningen, without extremes due to its coastal climate. Due to its location in the north of the Netherlands, during winter the average temperatures of this city are slightly lower than the average of the rest of the Netherlands. Snow and freezing temperatures are common in the winter but rarely last more than a few days. 30°C in the summer is not exceptional. Most average daytime highs in summer are around 22°C. Daylight hours run from 05:15 - 22:00 in the summer months to 08:45 - 16:15 in the winter. ===Tourist office=== *{{listing | name=Groningen Tourist Information Office | alt= | url=http://toerisme.groningen.nl/en/ | email= | address=Nieuwe Markt 1 (Forum Groningen) | lat=53.21903132521836 | long=6.570492792569801 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3139741 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Groningen VVV.jpg | hours=M-F 09:30-18:00, Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 12:00-17:00 | price= |lastedit=2021-08-01| content=The Groningen Tourist Information Office is located in the city centre, on the Nieuwe Markt, on the ground floor of the brand-new Groningen Forum. The Tourist Information Office shop provides information about the city and the province. Hotel reservations can be made, and souvenirs and gift vouchers are also for sale here. }} * The Tourist Information Wall at Groningen Airport Eelde provides information flyers about the city and its surrounding area in Dutch, English, German and Polish. ==Get in== ===By plane=== Groningen is served by {{listing | type=go | name=Groningen Airport Eelde | alt= | url=http://www.groningenairport.nl/ | email= | address=({{IATA|GRQ}}), Machlaan 14a Eelde | lat=53.12923 | long=6.58665 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3097070 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Groningen Airport Eelde | image=Groningen Airport Eelde overview.jpg | wikidata=Q769099 | content=The airport of Groningen offers two flights per week from [[Gdansk]] ([https://wizzair.com/en-GB/FlightSearch Wizz Air]), and various other scheduled flights from selected cities and holiday destinations in [[Greece]], [[Portugal]], [[Spain]], [[Canary Islands]] and [[Turkey]]. The Brussels, Munich and Copenhagen flights are operated by Nordica, in cooperation with Star Alliance members such as SAS, Lufthansa and Singapore Airlines. Therefore, many destinations are reachable from Groningen with a transfer at [[Copenhagen Airport]], [[Munich Airport]] or [[Brussels#Brussels Airport|Brussels Airport]]. }} Groningen is also easily reached by direct train (2.5 hr) from [[Schiphol Airport]], which has far more direct connections than Groningen Airport. '''To travel between the airport and the city:''' * '''[https://qbuzz.nl/GD/lijn/g559/2 Bus 9]''' runs twice per hour between the airport and city. The journey to the centre takes approximately 40 minutes. €5 one way, tickets can be purchased from the driver, or use the [[OV-chipkaart]]. Not all line 9 buses go to the airport, but this is clearly stated on the digital rollsigns. You can no longer buy bus tickets with cash. Make sure you have a card valid in the Netherlands (Maestro is best) or be ready to negotiate with the driver. * '''[https://qbuzz.nl/GD/lijn/g500/2 Bus 100]''' is a special shuttle bus to and from the airport starting at the Central Station, but only around the Copenhagen, Brussels, Munich, London and Gdansk flights. Besides Central Station, bus 100 also stops at the main down town places and hotels (including Hampshire Plaza Hotel in the southern part of the city), and the academic UMCG Hospital. This bus trip takes about 20 minutes from the Central Station and costs €5 one way, tickets at the driver. * '''Taxis''' are not always available at the airport. If you wish to travel by taxi, book in advance. A taxi to the city will cost you €25-30. ===By train=== [[File:Station Groningen (6914121774).jpg|thumb|300px|Groningen Main Station]] By Dutch standards, it's a fairly long way from the major destinations in the western Netherlands. Getting here, however, is not hard. Groningen has three train stations, the main station ({{marker|type=go|name=Station Groningen|lat=53.210556|long=6.564722|url=http://www.ns.nl/en/stations/groningen.html}}, often called 'Hoofdstation'), {{marker|type=go|name=Groningen Europapark|lat=53.205|long=6.584444|url=http://www.ns.nl/en/stations/groningen-europapark.html}} and {{marker|type=go|name=Groningen Noord|lat=53.23|long=6.556389|url=http://www.ns.nl/en/stations/groningen-noord.html}}. All trains eventually arrive at the central station; only a few trains stop at the smaller stations. Tickets for all train journeys can be purchased at the train station or online at [http://www.ns.nl/en NS.nl]. There are two trains departing from Groningen Station to southern destinations like [[Amsterdam]] and [[Rotterdam]] every hour. One train terminates in [[The Hague]] and the other train terminates in Rotterdam. The train towards The Hague also calls at Amsterdam South Station and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Station. Amsterdam Central Station can be reached with one change at [[Almere]]. [[Brussels]] and [[Paris]] can be reached with one change at Schiphol Airport Station. A regional line operated by Arriva runs west to [[Leeuwarden]] three times per hour. Some popular destinations include: {| border="0" ! City !! Duration !! Price !! Transfer |- | Leeuwarden  || 0:34 || {{EUR|10.05}}   || ''Direct'' |- | Zwolle || 0:57 || {{EUR|17.70}} || ''Direct'' |- | Utrecht || 1:54 || {{EUR|24.70}} || ''Direct'' |- | Amsterdam || 2:00 || {{EUR|25.50}} || ''Direct'' |- | Arnhem || 2:04 || {{EUR|23.90}} || Zwolle |- | Schiphol Airport || 2:11 || {{EUR|25.80}} || ''Direct'' |- | Bremen || 2:35 || {{EUR|35.20}} || Leer |- | Rotterdam || 2:37 || {{EUR|26.30}} || ''Direct'' |- | Eindhoven || 2:58 || {{EUR|26.30}} || Utrecht |- | Brussels South || 3:50 || Price varies || Schiphol |- | Frankfurt || 5:12 || Price varies || Arnhem |} Train service between Leer (Germany) and Groningen is replaced by a bus service until around 2020 due to a ship crashing into a bridge on the rail line in 2016. You can either take a direct bus (55 min, every 2 hours), or take a bus to [[Weener]] then a train to Groningen (1 hr 30 min, every hour). Commuter trains, all operated by Arriva twice per hour, run towards [[Uithuizen]]/Roodeschool, [[Appingedam]]/[[Delfzijl]], [[Oldambt|Winschoten]] and [[Veenkoloniën|Veendam]]. ===By bus=== [[File:Flixbus picture.jpg|thumb|Flixbus intercity busline]] [[File:Groningen Hauptbahnhof 07.jpg|thumb|Groningen 'Hoofdstation']] The main bus station is right next to the central train station. At the bus station you can find a wide range of city buses and lines to virtually all large and small destinations in the region, and direct buses to [[Emmeloord]], via [[Heerenveen]] and [[Lemmer]]. [https://www.flixbus.nl/ Flixbus] operates a couple of domestic intercity bus lines from Groningen. Line 821 runs to [[Hengelo]] and [[Enschede]] and line 822 runs to [[Apeldoorn]], [[Arnhem]], [[Nijmegen]] and [[Eindhoven]]. These bus lines leave at P+R Haren (near Postillion Hotel) and opposite the central train station, at the other side of the road. Booking in advance is cheaper. The buses are in most cases cheaper and faster than making the same journey by train. ====International buses==== There are several direct buslinks to [[Germany]] and [[Belgium]] operated by [[Intercity buses in Germany|German carriers]]. For example to [[Bremen]], [[Oldenburg]], [[Hamburg]], [[Berlin]], [[Antwerp]], [[Brussels]] and [[Leuven]] (starting at €9, one-way) by [https://www.flixbus.nl/ Flixbus]. Destinations in Belgium, France and England are reachable with one transit in Amsterdam. Destinations in Sweden require a change in Copenhagen. It is not possible to book a domestic journey. [https://www.ecolines.net/en/ Ecolines] operates a bus line towards [[Warsaw]] and stops en route to Poland in some German cities like Bremen and Berlin. All international bus lines leave opposite the train station. Book a day in advance to get the lowest fare. === By car === A myriad of roads lead to Groningen, making the city well reachable by car. The major highways are the '''A7''' (west-east) and the '''A28''' coming from the south. Several fine N-roads connect to the city from nearby destinations, and are the way to go further north. The most notable ones are the '''N360''' from [[Appingedam]] and [[Delfzijl]], and the '''N361''' north, direction of Winsum. Driving in the old city, particularly within the central canal ring, is not the best option. Parts of town are car-free, there are many one way roads, parking is not always easy to find, and none of it is free. You can, however, park for free overnight at IKEA (a 5 minute cycle from downtown). There are several '''Park & Ride facilities''' around Groningen. At these facilities you can park your car for free and take a fast and frequent bus to Downtown for a small amount. One of the biggest facilities is on Sontweg, to the east of the city and near Ikea. It is clearly marked when driving on the ring road. Parking there is free, and for €2 (one way) or €6 return for 5 people, a regular bus service takes you right to Downtown. If you come from the direction of Assen (south), the Park & Ride facility Haren is your best option. From the west, from direction Drachten, P+R Hoogkerk is on your route. If you are coming from Germany you can park at "Kardinge". Follow the road to "Eemshaven" and take the exit "Kardinge". All P+R facilities are clearly marked on the motorways. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|53.21765|6.56631|zoom=15|width=475|height=570|layer=CH|lang=en}} {{mapshapes|Q749}} Like most cities in the Netherlands, Groningen's historic city center is surrounded by a canal, the '''diepenring'''. Most of the sights are within this area, and the Central Station is 50 m outside it, and the museum built in it. Within the ''diepenring'', traffic is very restricted; Groningen's centre is designed to be as traffic-free as possible, and it is very difficult to drive and park within this area. Even resident parking permits are strictly rationed. However, the central area is compact and can be easily crossed on foot or with a bicycle. Further out, Groningen has a loosely connected ring road, consisting of several N-roads forming a rather square ring shape around the centre. The city sprawls somewhat and crosses this ring in places, but most of the population live within this area. ===By bike=== Cycling is the best way to travel around. Getting from any place in Groningen to the centre will take at most 20 minutes. This makes the bike a fast, cheap and easy way to travel in Groningen. Don't get scared by the overwhelming number of bicycles. The city houses tens of thousands of students, whose primary means of transportation is the bike. Bicycle theft is pretty high. Most bikes have one lock, but it is best to use a good second lock (preferably a strong chain lock for least €30). ===By bus=== If you don't have a bike, the bus is the best option for distances you don't want to walk. All buses run through (or end on) Central station. Most buses have a stop at the Grote Markt square (central downtown). The major bus lines are listed below. Tickets are available from the driver (during off-peak periods you can buy a Eurokaartje, cost €2.50) or use the [[OV-chipkaart]] for payment. The Central Station is listed as bus stop "Hoofdstation" in and on buses and on bus stops. As mentioned earlier, buses <u>no longer</u> accept cash. Bring a card that works in the Netherlands (Maestro is best) or be ready for disappointment. ==== Q-Link==== Q-Link is a group of 5 bus services which are air conditioned, have a WiFi connection, and run from city destinations to places just outside the region. One exception for line 15 which is a student express line to Zernike. * '''Line 1''' runs from the Central Station to the Zernike/[[Westerkwartier|Zuidhorn]], via Grote Markt, Noorderplantsoen and Paddepoel. * '''Line 3''' runs from Lewenborg to [[Westerkwartier|Leek]] via Kardinge, Grote Markt, Central Station and P+R Hoogkerk. * '''Line 4''' runs from Beijum to [[Roden]] via Kardinge, Grote Markt, Central Station and P+R Hoogkerk. * '''Line 5''' runs from station Europapark to [[Aa en Hunze|Annen]] via UMCG Hospital, Grote Markt, Central Station, P+R Haren and [[Tynaarlo|Zuidlaren]]. Sometimes this bus terminates at P+R Haren, so make sure Zuidlaren and Annen are mentioned if you travel this way. * '''Line 6''' runs from P+R Haren to Ten Boer/Delfzijl via Central Station, Zuiderdiep, UMCG Hospital and Ruischerbrug. * '''Line 15''' is a student express service from Central Station to college campus Zernike. It is just north of Paddepoel and line 15 runs via Rembrandt van Rijnstraat and Paddepoel. These buses are very crowded in the morning to Zernike, and in the afternoon back to the Central Station. This route does not run in weekends. ==See== [[File:Martinitoren Groningen.JPG|thumb|The Martinikerk tower has been the city's main landmark for centuries]] '''Downtown Groningen''' is pleasant and interesting. The city centre provides plenty of cultural heritage and a laid-back atmosphere. Together with the excellent '''Groninger Museum''', it forms the main attraction for visitors. Like many cities in the Netherlands, the centre is surrounded by a canal. Several historic canals have been "gedempt", or filled, however, and turned into streets. This is reflected in their names, and you'll likely find yourself strolling along the Gedempte Zuiderdiep. The heart of the city is formed around the two adjoining market squares, The '''Grote Markt''' (or Great Market) and the '''Vismarkt''' (or Fish Market). Standing tall on the edge of the Grote Markt is the '''Martini Tower''', a true landmark for Groningen and one of its main attractions. ===Architecture=== [[File:110801 Kantorencomplex Kempkensberg Groningen NL.jpg|thumb|Modern architecture: Kempkensberg]] [[File:Groningen, Groninger museum foto5 2012-0901 09.27.jpg|thumb|Groninger Museum]] [[File:Gebouw in de Chinese tuin Het Verborgen Rijk van Ming in de Hortus Haren 02.jpg|thumb|Building in the Chinese Garden, the Hidden Empire Ming in the Hortus Haren]] Warfare left hundreds of buildings in ruins in 1945, but a good number of monuments remain. Strolling through the city centre you'll encounter former canal warehouses, the city hall, several churches, the former Gold Office and many other historic buildings. The city has, with success, attempted to find a balance between modern architecture and historic grandeur. The latest initiative is a major renewal of the eastern side of the Grote Markt. Typical Dutch architecture is the '''Amsterdamse School''', a style of architecture that arose from 1910 through about 1930 in Amsterdam. The Amsterdam School movement is part of international Expressionist architecture, sometimes linked to German Brick Expressionism. While Amsterdam has the most buildings in this style, Groningen also has some wonderful edifices, and sometimes called the northern capital of Amsterdamse School. {{marker|type=see|name=Vensterschool Stadspark|lat=53.20678|long=6.55933}} at Parkweg in the lovely Grunobuurt district and {{marker|type=see|name=Bureau Gemeentewerken|lat=53.21429|long=6.56537}} at Gedempte Zuiderdiep 96 are worth walking along. There are a number of special architectural skyscrapers. The '''Kempkensberg''' is a 25-storey high-rise building in the south of the city and is commonly called 'The Cruiseship' by locals. The '''Gasunie Building''' is considered to be a great example of an ‘organic building’, situated on the edge of the Stadspark. * {{see | name=Dot | alt= | url=https://www.dotgroningen.nl/ | email= | address=Vrydemalaan 2 | lat=53.22495 | long=6.56741 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=140629 Infoversum Groningen NL (1).jpg | content=Originally known as Infoversum, this remarkable structure was built as the only full-dome 3D theatre in the Netherlands, before it was turned in a modern restaurant and cultural center. Located near the city beach. In winter, the building is decorated with thousands of lights, turning it into the largest Christmas decoration in the world. }} * {{see | name=Wall House II | alt= | url=http://www.wallhouse.nl/ | email= | address= | lat=53.18319 | long=6.55339 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open during exhibitions Sa Su 13:00-17:00 | price= | wikipedia=Wall House II | image=Wall House2.JPG | content=The Wall House II is a building in the south of the city located on the banks of Hoornsemeer lake. The building is one of the few realised designs to which the renowned American architect John Hejduk owes his fame. The building is a structure of reinforced concrete for the wall and columns, with a steel-framed corridor, wood stud walls, and a stucco exterior. Organised around a central axis of horizontal and vertical planes. | wikidata=Q17514866}} * {{see | name=Reitdiep colourful houses | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.2367 | long=6.5240 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Beautiful Colourful houses in The Netherlands - free license CC0.jpg | hours= | price= | content=You may know these Scandinavian looking colourful terraced houses from Pinterest or Instagram. Built at the waterside they create a wonderful composition. Take Q-Link 11 to bus stop P+R Reitdiep. }} *{{See|name=Forum Groningen|alt=|url=https://forum.nl/|email=info@forum.nl|address=Nieuwe Markt 1|lat=53.2188056|long=6.5702361|directions=|phone=+31 50 3683683|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2021-01-03|content=Large cultural complex, opened in 2019. Contains the main public library of the city, two restaurants, cinema (5 screens, mostly arthouse films), exhibition spaces, the Storyworld museum (see Museums below), rooftop bar and more. The rooftop is freely accessible, with great views of the surrounding landscape. Hosts various events throughout the year, some aimed at children. Can be very crowded in weekends.|wikipedia=Forum Groningen|wikidata=Q3076424}} === Museums === As in many cities in Europe, Groningen's museums are generally closed on Mondays. * {{see | name=Groninger Museum | alt= | url=http://www.groningermuseum.nl/en | email= | address=Museumeiland 1 | lat=53.212394 | long=6.566001 | directions= | phone=+31 50 366 6555 | tollfree= | fax= | wikipedia=Groninger Museum | image=Groninger Museum 2.jpg | lastedit=2022-04-10 | hours= Tu-Su 10:00-17:00 | price=Adult €15, students €10 (free if studying in Groninger), children and Dutch Museum Pass holders free | content=Opposite train/bus station. Spectacular architecture. Hosts state-of-the-art contemporary art in the world. Named one of the five most progressive modern/contemporary art collections in the world, this museum's changing exhibitions regularly attract visitors from all over the country. | wikidata=Q1542668}} * {{see | name=Noordelijk Scheepvaartmuseum | alt=Northern Maritime Museum | url=http://www.noordelijkscheepvaartmuseum.nl/en | email= | address=Brugstraat 24 | lat=53.216481 | long=6.560205 | directions= | phone=+31 50 312 2202 | tollfree= | fax= | wikipedia=Noordelijk Scheepvaartmuseum | image=Brugstraat 24 - 18433.jpg | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 13:00-17:00 | price=Adults €6, senior citizens €3.50, children up to 7 free, children aged 7-15 €3.50, Museumcard (Museumjaarkaart) free | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=The northern museum of water transport. Shows the history and role of transport over water until the 1970s. The museum is situated in the oldest residential building remaining in the city. Not accessible with a wheelchair or rollator. | wikidata=Q2004350}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Universiteitsmuseum | alt=University Museum | url=https://www.rug.nl/university-museum/ | email=universiteitsmuseum@rug.nl | address=Oude Kijk in 't Jatstraat 7A | lat=53.218333 | long=6.563016 | directions= | phone=+31 50 363 5083 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 12:00-17:00 | price=Adults €5, students €2.50, children up to 18 free | image=Universiteitsmuseum Groningen.jpg | lastedit=2020-07-28 | content=A strange and wonderful little museum located just off ''Oude Kijk in 't Jatstraat''. Temporary exhibitions, often of a technological bent, are held on the first floor; upstairs (past an elaborate stained-glass window in the stairwell) is an eclectic collection in the Victorian style, with everything from anatomical specimens and taxidermied animals to early scientific instruments. }} * {{see | name=Storyworld | alt= | url=https://www.storyworld.nl/ | email=info@storyworld.nl | address=Nieuwe Markt 1 | lat=53.218806 | long=6.570236 | directions= | phone=+31 50-36836 83 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 12:30-17:00, Sa Su 10:00-17:00 | price=Adult €9, children aged 7-17 €6, children 6 and under free, students €6. Museumkaart not accepted | wikipedia=Forum Groningen | image=Stripmuseum Groningen NL.JPG | wikidata=Q3076424 | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Museum of visual storytelling (comics, video games, animated film), located in the Forum complex. Houses the collection of the former Nederlands Stripmuseum. }} * {{see | name=Stichting Museum Canadian Allied Forces | alt= | url=http://www.canadianalliedforces.com/welcome-to-stichting-museum-canadian-allied-forces/ | email= | address=Ulgersmaweg 51 | lat=53.23563 | long=6.58537 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=The museum is open one day each weekend (Sa ''or'' Su) 12:30 -16:30 - see website for opening days | price=Free entrance | content=The Museum Canadian Allied Forces depicts the history of the liberation of the north of the Netherlands in 1945 by the Canadians, with a particular emphasis on the liberation of the city of Groningen. }} * {{see | name=GRID Grafisch Museum Groningen | alt=GR-ID, museum for realising GRaphic IDeas | url=http://www.gridgroningen.nl/ | email= | address=Sint Jansstraat 2 | lat=53.21963 | long=6.57027 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 13:00-17:00 | price=€5 | lastedit=2016-08-17 | content=GR-ID is a museum about graphical industry, art and design. The museum collection is mainly drawn from the province of Groningen and has been put together over a course of several decades. }} * {{see | name=Hortus Haren | alt=Hortus Botanicus | url=http://www.hortusharen.nl/ | email= | address=Kerklaan 34, Haren | lat=53.18001 | long=6.60366 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-17:00, November-February closed | price=€8.50 | wikipedia=Hortus Haren | image=Uitzichtpunt. Locatie, Chinese tuin Het Verborgen Rijk van Ming in de Hortus Haren 03.jpg | lastedit=2017-07-18 | content=Everyone with an interest in gardens, flowers and plants, should visit the Hortus Haren. It is without a doubt one of the most impressive botanical gardens in the Netherlands. Hortus Haren was established in the 17th century and is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the country. There are over {{acre|20}} with 15 colourful gardens. | wikidata=Q1980263}} === Historic heritage === Most of the historic heritage can be found within the ring of canals. The most visited tourist attraction is without doubt the Martini Tower, but there is much more to see in Groningen: old canal warehouses, guesthouses, typical Dutch gables and beautiful gardens. Probably the most characteristic streets of the city are the {{marker|type=see|name=Hoge and Lage der A streets|lat=53.21780|long=6.55917}}. These two streets run along the A canal and are known for the dozens of national heritage sites, in particular the outstanding warehouses from the Middle Ages and a 17th century brewery named 'Batavia'. Scattered through the city centre are several late-medieval '''Guest Houses''' (''Gasthuizen''). During daylight hours these picturesque courtyards can be visited for free. The houses are not open to the public: the people living in them enjoy their quiet and privacy. Access is through gated doorways that will be unlocked during daylight hours and locked during the evening/night. The largest and oldest one is the courtyard of the {{marker|type=see|name=Pelstergasthuis|lat=53.21556|long=6.56700}}, located in the Pelsterstraat, next to the Pelstergasthuis church. The Guest House consists of several courtyards connected through archways. In the Peperstraat, near the end on the left when viewed from the Poelestraat, is the {{marker|type=see|name=Pepergasthuis|lat=53.21741|long=6.57139}}. The Peper Guest House was founded in 1405. Part of the medieval city wall is still visible from the courtyard. At the tourist information is a city walk available through many courtyards. [[File:Hoge der Aa2.jpg|thumb|Old warehouses along the Hoge der Aa canal. In the background, the tower of the Aa-Kerk can be seen.]] [[File:Pepergasthuis - huisjes.jpg|thumb|Houses in the Pepergasthuis.]] Other important heritage listings are: * {{see | name=Der Aa-Kerk | alt= | url=http://www.aakerk.nl | email= | address=Akerkhof | lat=53.21648 | long=6.561858 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Der Aa-kerk | image=Der Aa-kerk Groningen.jpg | content=This beautiful medieval church with its remarkable yellow-painted tower stands tall above the neighbouring Korenbeurs. Established between 1425 and 1492, the church's tower was repeatedly destroyed and replaced, with the current one originating in 1711. The building is no longer used for religious services but is open for visitors and regularly houses expositions. | wikidata=Q2255378}} * {{see | name=Academiegebouw | alt=University of Groningen | url= | email= | address=Broerstraat 5 | lat=53.21921 | long= 6.56307 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | wikipedia= | image=090529 Academiegebouw Groningen NL.jpg | hours= | price= | content= The '''[http://www.rug.nl/ Rijksuniversiteit Groningen]''', the University of Groningen, is the second-oldest university in the Netherlands and one of three State Universities of the Netherlands. It was established in 1614. While the university has its share of modern buildings in town and out, the Academiegebouw is an old and attractive building with a tower and worth strolling past. Although it is not intended, the building is accessible for the public. The interior of the building is magnificent, especially the stained glass, the entrance hall and the murals in the Aula and Senaatskamer (''Senate room''). }} * {{see | name=Gold Office | alt=Goudkantoor | url= | email= | address=Waagplein 1 | lat=53.21851 | long= 6.56636 | directions=More or less between the two market squares | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | wikipedia=Goudkantoor | image=Goudkantoor Groningen Netherlands.JPG | hours= | price= | content=This beautifully decorated building on the edge of the Grote Markt is hard to miss. It was built in 1635 as the office for the city receiver. The words ''Date Caesari quae sunt Caesaris'', Latin for "render unto Caesar that which is Caesar's", still remind of this early function of the building. Later, between 1814 and 1887, it served as a gold office in the sense that this was the place where gold and silver works were authenticated and marked as real. Today, it's a café. | wikidata=Q5588164}} [[File:090529 Academiegebouw Groningen NL.jpg|thumb|The Academiegebouw is the main building of the University of Groningen, the third largest university of the Netherlands.]] [[File:Groningen (2769881847).jpg|thumb|Historic houses at the Martinikerkhof.]] [[File:Groningen Prinsentuin april04.jpg|thumb|The Prinsentuin is a lovely Renaissance-style garden and an excellent place in which to sit down and relax for half an hour.]] * {{see | name=Martinikerkhof | alt=Martini cemetery | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.22019 | long=6.56912 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | wikipedia= | image= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=The Martinikerkhof used to be a cemetery, but since 1828 it is no longer in use. The cemetery has been transformed into a beautiful square, an oasis of peace. Prominent on the Martinikerkhof is the Martini Church. On the east side of the square stands the 'Provinciehuis', the seat of the provincial government. The front of this beautiful building was built in the end of the 20th century, while the rear of the building dates back to the Middle Ages. At that time the building was used as a Latin School. The north side of the square is marked by nice old houses and the Prinsenhof. At the square stands the Saint George and the Dragon Memorial (''Sint Joris en de Draak Monument''), the official provincial Second World War memorial. The memorial has been made in remembrance of the whole loss and suffering in the city of Groningen.}} * {{see | name=Martini Tower and Church | alt=Martinitoren | url=http://www.martinikerk.nl | email= | address=Grote Markt | lat=53.21935 | long=6.56816 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:00-16:00 (11:00-17:00 in summer) | price=€3 | wikipedia=Martinitoren | image=Martinitoren groningen.jpg | content=One of the most important hotspots in Groningen refers to Saint Martin of Tours, the patron saint of the Bishopric of Utrecht. Locals call the tower d' Olle Grieze which means 'the old grey one' and is related to its colour. Tickets are available in the VVV (tourist information) shop just over the road. There is a wide view over the city from the top of the tower. It was built as a cruciform church in the 13th century, and was extended in the 15th and 16th centuries. Much of the wall and roof paintwork has been preserved. Of particular note is a 16th-century depiction of the life of Jesus Christ. | wikidata=Q1897266}} * {{see | name=Oude RKZ, Old Roman Catholic Hospital | alt= | url=http://www.orkz.net/ | email= | address= | lat=53.19711 | long=6.58096 | directions= | phone=+31 505257601 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=20090624 Verlengde Hereweg 92 (ORKZ) Groningen NL.jpg | content=This is an old Roman Catholic hospital outside the city centre, now housing an art house cinema and commune. It's located just south of the city centre, in Helpman. The hospital itself was abandoned in 1978, after which it was squatted. Until 1986, the Oude RKZ was the largest squat in the Netherlands and possibly in the whole of Europe. In 1986 the government allowed the squat to be legalized. Nowadays it is a vibrant place where 250 people from all ages find a place to live and to share what is important. The former squat has cheap folk kitchens on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. There are also 2 bars, a cinema, yoga and capoeira sessions and many other things. Being a motor for the Dutch alternative and artist scene, the Oude RKZ is a well known place to many people from all over Europe. If you want to eat at the folk kitchen it's best to call on the same day to reserve a meal. Meals are served at 18:30. }} * {{see | name=Prinsenhof & Prinsentuin | alt= | url= | email= | address=Martinikerkhof 23, entrance of the public gardens at the corner of Turfsingel and Kattenhage | lat=53.22134 | long=6.56891 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | wikipedia=Prinsentuin (Groningen) | image=Groningen Prinsentuin april04.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Just a short walk from the Grote Markt, the lovely Renaissanse gardens of the Prinsenhof can be a remarkably peaceful place to relax for a little while. It has a rose garden a herb garden and The Prinsenhof building originates in the 15th century and was originally a wealthy mansion for the city's bishop or "stadtholder", and later was used as a military hospital. Now, a restaurant has been opened within the building. The renaissance style gardens are open for public. This garden consists of a rose garden, a herb garden and a part with berceaus. The entrance of the garden is remarkable because of a beautiful sundial on the wall above it. When the weather is nice, volunteers run a small tea house there. | wikidata=Q2367360}} * {{see | name=Sint Jozef Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.stmartinusparochie.nl/ | email= | address=Radesingel 4 | lat=53.21474 | long=6.57301 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=St. Joseph Cathedral, Groningen | image=Sint-Jozefkathedraal2.jpg | content=St Joseph's Cathedral is the cathedral church of the diocese of Groningen-Leeuwarden. The Neo-Gothic church was built from 1885 to 1887 and consecrated on May 25, 1887. Local nickname for the tower is "drunk's tower", because there is from every direction always two clocks to be seen. | wikidata=Q1848887}} * {{see | name=Synagogue | alt= | url=http://synagogegroningen.nl/index.php?pid=1 | email= | address= | lat=53.21477 | long=6.56537 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image=Synagoge Groningen Folkingstraat.jpg | content=The synagogue was built after the oriental design of the New Synagogue in Berlin and has a beautiful moorish style interior. Shortly after World War II the Jewish community was forced to sell the synagogue since only 7% of the Jewish community of Groningen survived the war. In 1981 the building was renovated and rehabilitated. }} ===Parks & sculptures=== * {{see | name=Jewish Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.20312 | long=6.57590 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Groningen Waskowsky 08.JPG | hours= | price= | content=The Jewish Memorial commemorates the more than 3000 Jewish inhabitants of Groningen who were deported and murdered during the Second World War. It is made by Eduard Waskowsky out of six hands each having their own expression. The 7th hand is missing, because Waskowsky died during the making of the memorial. }} * {{see | name=Noorderplantsoen | alt= | url=http://www.noorderplantsoen.nl/ | email= | address= | lat=53.22356 | long=6.55463 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | wikipedia=Noorderplantsoen | image=Groningen Kruissingel 1.JPG | hours= | price= | content=Remains of the old citywalls, transformed into a public park. The earth ramparts were incorporated in the park architecture and the moats were turned into ponds. The architecture is of an English garden style, characterized by meandering paths and serpentine ponds, inspired by wild nature. On a sunny day, this is the place to relax after a hard day's work for a lot of students. | wikidata=Q2626701}} * {{see | name=Stadspark | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.20326 | long=6.54038 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image= | hours= | price= | content=The Stadspark is an approximately 140-hectare park on the southwest side of the city in the Stadsparkwijk. The park was created at the beginning of the twentieth century, designed by landscape architect Leonard Springer. }} == Do == * '''Football:''' [https://www.fcgroningen.nl/ FC Groningen] were promoted in 2024 so they play soccer in Eredivisie, the top tier. Their home ground Euroborg (capacity 22,500) is 2 km southeast of city centre. ===Cycling=== Groningen is a '''cycling city''' par excellence. The inhabitants of Groningen possess an average of 1.4 bikes per person. The city features the highest cycling rate for anywhere on the planet; almost 60% of journeys are by bike. Groningen is arguably the world's best cycling city. 40 years ago the local government made a radical choice to ban the car from the centre of the city to increase liveability in the city. Since then, cycling has evolved into the new normal. Some cycling features: [[File:Groningen station bicycle parking 2010.jpg|thumb|Cycling facilities at central station]] [[File:De Helper.png|thumb|Windmill 'The Helper' at Paterswoldsemeer lake]] [[File:Paalkoepel.jpg|thumb|Paalkoepel]] [[File:20130719 Klimtoren klimhal Kardinge Groningen NL.jpg|thumb|Excalibur wall at Bjoeks]] * Bikes everywhere * A bunch of guarded bike stalls across the city * Free way for cyclists with the many cycling lanes * Priority on roundabouts * Shared space with pedestrians in quieter and narrower streets * Traffic lights with rain sensors to give quicker priority to cyclists on wet days * Traffic lights that go green for all bikes from all directions (has to be seen at rush hour to be appreciated!) Bicycles are available for rent at a number of places around town like {{marker|type=do|name=Fietsverda|lat=53.2186|long=6.5723}}, {{marker|type=do|url=http://ebikeverhuurgroningen.nl/en|name=TrendEwheels|lat=53.2200|long=6.5722}} (only e-bikes), {{marker|type=do|name=Stuurwold|lat=53.2153|long=6.5496}} and {{marker|type=do|name=Fietsje|lat=53.2163|long=6.5628}} (carrier bikes!). Bikes are also available at the Central Station with the OV-Chipkaart. Many hotels offer bike rental to their guests, usually for fees of roughly €10 or less per day. Renting an electric bike is a little more expensive, but a lot of fun and very interesting for longer trips outside the city. Bike maps are available at the tourist information centre. Use the map to explore the city and the surrounding areas or follow a signposted cycle route using the '''[http://www.hollandcyclingroutes.com/cycling-daytrips Dutch cycle junction network]{{Dead link|date=April 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. There is also a possibility to discover the city's highlights with a 2½-hour {{marker|type=do|url=http://toerisme.groningen.nl/en/see-and-do/actief/fietsen|name=guided bicycle tour|lat=53.21433|long=6.56648}}. You have to book this tour in advance. Departure from May through October every Friday at 14:30 and Saturday at 10:30. ===Relaxing=== ====Paterswoldsemeer lake==== Locals love to spend their leisure time at Paterswoldsemeer south of the city, and cool down on hot days. On windy days sailors and surfers find their way to the lake. It is also popular with cyclists and joggers. There are beaches, marinas, boat rentals, restaurants, and accommodations. Rental sail boats and canoes are available at the {{marker|type=do|name=Zuidwesthoek Marina|lat=53.159776|long=6.565608}} is the place to be if you want to rent a boat or canoe. {{marker|type=eat|name=Beachclub Kaap Hoorn|lat=53.179298|long=6.555769}}, at the north-western corner of the lake, is a lovely location for a drink with lakeview. At the adjacent water skiing club you can take introductory waterskiing lessons or have a fun ride on the banana. Call ahead to find out what's available. Restaurants include {{marker|type=eat|name=Paviljoen van de Dame|lat=53.1622|long=6.5639}}, {{marker|type=eat|name=De Rietschans|lat=53.1621|long=6.5751}} and {{marker|type=eat|name=De Paalkoepel|lat=53.1614|long=6.5730}}. ====Other hotspots==== * {{marker|type=do|name=City's Beach|lat=53.225286|long=6.567507}} (Ebbingekwartier) is a real hotspot and a must-visit during sunny days. The location is superb, located just adjacent to the centre of the city. So take a dive after a hard day shopping and have a drink at the bar of DOT. * '''Noorderplantsoen''' (mentioned in &sect; [[#See|See]]) is the perfect place to relax after a hard day's work. On a sunny day, join the students which gather on the grass or take a seat on the stairs at the fountains. * '''Hoornseplas lake''' is the perfect place to visit on a hot day with children. They can play at one of the two beaches or clamber on one of the biggest publicly accessible playgrounds of Europe. ===Activities=== * {{do | name=Canal cruise | alt= | url=http://www.rondvaartbedrijfkool.nl/EN/index.html | email= | address=Stationsweg 1012 | lat=53.21179 | long=6.56719 | directions=Opposite central station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Adults €12.50, children 4-11 €7 | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Take a one-hour tour through the old channels of Groningen aboard the "Wonderlaand" or "Goldenraand". The boat will take you around the historical centre. 2-5 trips a day, depending on the season. }} * {{do | name=Canoeing | alt=beDRIJFNAT | url=https://bedrijfnat.nl/kanoverhuur/ | email= | address= | lat=53.21257 | long=6.57013 | directions=Under the 'Herebrug' | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€10-20 for 2 hours | lastedit=2024-06-29 | content=From 1 April to 1 Oct you can hire a canoe and paddle around the centre. It's a round trip that gives you a totally different view of Groningen since you are lower than the streets and you can pass very close along the many house boats in the city. Some bridges have a secret 'roof' that can only be seen when you pass under the bridge. A tour around the centre takes about 1 – 2 hours, depending on how fit you are, how many stops you take for photo shootings, and water battles. }} * {{do | name=Play Pitch&Putt | alt= | url=http://www.pitch-putt.nl/groningen/ | email= | address=Bieskemaar 10 | lat=53.24093 | long=6.59653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€12-16 | content=Pitch and putt is an amateur sport similar to golf but where the hole length is typically less than 70 m (80 yard). The Pitch and Putt course in Groningen has 18 holes and is perfect for everyone, even young children. You do not need a golf license. After your little golf experience, you should take a look at the nearby '''Kardingerbult''': a human made hill with a nice view over the city. }} * {{do | name=Klimcentrum Bjoeks | alt= | url=http://www.bjoeks.nl/lang/en | email= | address=Bieskemaar 3 | lat=53.240763 | long=6.60126 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Groningen's best kept secret: indoor and outdoor climbing gym featuring "Excalibur". The tallest and probably the most exciting climbing wall in Europe, with an impressive height of 37 meters and 11 meters of overhang. About €10 for a day pass, €11-15 for an introductory climbing course. }} * {{do | name=BOEL | alt= | url=https://boelgroningen.nl | email= | address=Nieuwe Ebbingestraat 163 | lat=53.22794 | long=6.56039 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€ 16 for 45 minutes of play | lastedit=2024-06-29 | content=Go for a game of pétanque (or "Jue de boeles" as the Dutch call it) together with a drink and a bite. Surprisingly fun to do. }} ===Concerts & theatre=== [[File:100604 Turfsingel 86 (Stadsschouwburg) Groningen NL.jpg|thumb|Stadsschouwburg Groningen]] [[File:MartiniPlaza theater.jpg|thumb|Martiniplaza]] * {{do | name=Stadsschouwburg | alt= | url=http://www.de-oosterpoort.nl/ | email= | address= | lat=53.22072 | long=6.57174 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image= | hours= | price= | content=The Stadsschouwburg is the main theater of Groningen. The Neo-Renaissance building dates from 1883. The theatre offers a wide range of dance, opera and cabaret.}} * {{do | name=Martiniplaza | alt= | url=http://www.martiniplaza.nl/ | email= | address= | lat=53.20275 | long=6.55571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image= | hours= | price= | content=Martiniplaza is a modern multifunctional building. It is used as an exhibition complex, theater and sports arena.}} * {{do | name=Vera underground pop club | alt= | url=http://www.vera-groningen.nl/ | email= | address= | lat=53.21707 | long=6.57013 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Vera-Groningen.JPG | content=Where Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Sonic Youth, the White Stripes and many others performed. Internationally Vera is probably the best-known stage for alternative music in Groningen, and it is one of the most appreciated music venues in the Netherlands. Check the concert posters which are designed by local artists - free to take at the concert itself. }} * {{do | name=Simplon | alt= | url=http://www.simplon.nl/ | email= | address= | lat=53.22454 | long=6.56410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image= | hours= | price= | content=Simplon is an internationally renowned venue with an impressive history, especially in punk music. Every week on Thursday the club is dedicated to local (young) talent. }} ===Cinemas=== * {{do | name=Pathé | alt= | url=https://www.pathe.nl/bioscoop/groningen | email= | address=Gedempte Zuiderdiep 78 | lat=53.21431 | long=6.56615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Pathe Groningen Zaal 1.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Nice cinema in the city center. All popular movies are shown here. 9 screens, capacity: 1700 guests. }} * {{do | name=Kinepolis | alt= | url=https://kinepolis.nl | email= | address=Boumaboulavard 53 | lat=53.20586 | long=6.59027 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Wolffgroningen.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Huge cinema (10 screens) in the Euroborg Stadium. Outside the city center, but easily reachable with Q-Link line 5 towards Europapark. }} * {{do | name=Groninger Forum | alt= | url=http://www.groningerforum.nl/ | email= | address=Hereplein 73 | lat=53.21393 | long=6.56943 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image= | hours= | price= | content=Repertory cinema. Lots of English and French classic movies. }} * {{do | name=RKZ Bioscoop | alt= | url=http://rkzbios.nl | email= | address= | lat=53.19756 | long=6.58165 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-06-27 | content=Art house cinema based in the old Roman Catholic hospital. The cinema is being run by people who live in the old hospital's commune. }} ===Festivals and events=== * Every year in January: '''[http://www.eurosonic-noorderslag.nl/en/ 'Eurosonic-Noorderslag']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', Europe’s biggest showcase festival, where dozens of bands from all over the world perform on various stages spread throughout the city. * Every year on Good Friday: '''[http://bloemenjaarmarkt.nl/ 'Bloemenjaarmarkt']''', the biggest flower market of Northern Netherlands, which attracts more than 100,000 visitors each year. Among the visitors are a lot of Germans. * Every year on April 26: '''[http://www.oranjegroningen.nl/ 'Koningsdag']''' (kingsday), a holiday celebrating the birth of King Willem-Alexander. Many events in the city, including a lot of ''vrijmarkten'' ("free markets") at which the Dutch sell their used items. The night before Kingsday is called ''Koningsnacht'' ("kingsnight"): many young people celebrate in the streets and squares throughout the night. * Every year on May 5: '''[http://www.bevrijdingsfestivalgroningen.nl/english 'Bevrijdingsfestival']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (Liberation Festival), together with many other festivals throughout the country. * Every year in August: '''[http://www.paradigmfestival.com 'Paradigm Festival']''', one of the most innovative electronic music festivals in the country, organized by Paradigm050 (which was chosen as best underground electro-house club in the Netherlands). * Every year in August: '''[http://www.noorderzon.nl/en/ 'Noorderzon Festival']''', a festival focused on music, visual arts and performance arts. * Every two years in September/October: '''[http://www.noorderlicht.com/en/ 'Noorderlicht']''', a photography festival. * Every year in autumn: '''[http://www.jongeharten.nl/en 'Jonge Harten']''', a nine-day theater festival that takes place in almost all theaters in Groningen. It is a festival to discover. Including a lot of young creators, visual physical theater, performance, dance, music and a captivating festival heart. ==Buy== [[File:Vismarkt bij avondschemering.jpg|thumb|Vismarkt during winter]] [[File:Oude Kijk bij nacht.jpg|thumb|Oude Kijk in 't Jatstraat by night]] Groningen is the largest place to go for shopping in the region, and offers a wide range of large and small stores, including international and national chains and a good number of small speciality shops. ===Opening hours=== With some exceptions, shops close at 18:00 on weekdays and Saturday and Sunday at 17:00. Thursday is "buying-evening", on this day a lot of shops are open until 21:00. In downtown almost all shops are open on Sundays, but not before noon. Supermarkets are generally open from 08:00-22:00. ===Downtown area=== All streets within the central canal ring are low traffic due to restrictions - but watch out for cyclists, who don't often pay attention to pedestrian crossings. The '''Herestraat''', the city's longest pedestrianised shopping street, runs south off the '''Grote Markt''' and contains most of the city's everyday shopping needs and 'standard' Dutch clothing stores and chains. This is where you'll find Hema, Blokker, C&A, Zara and so on. The '''Westerhaven''', at the western edge of the centre, houses some big stores like Media Markt and Primark. Other shopping streets extend out from the '''Grote Markt''' and the '''Vismarkt'''. These streets are often worth a look too. '''AKerkhof''' contains higher-end brand shops, for example Tommy Hilfiger, Hugo Boss and Marc O'Polo, but also houses some great food stores. For example 'Droppie', a store selling typical Dutch liquorice. The '''Zwanestraat''' and the '''Grote Kromme Elleboog''' contain a lot of specialty shops selling beer, herbs and spices, coffee, cooking utensils, etc. Especially take a look at the Dille & Kamille shop and the gift store Truus & Bregje. The most picturesque shopping street is called the '''Folkingestraat'''; it runs south from the Korenbeurs (the former wheat exchange) at the end of the Vismarkt towards the museum bridge and the Central Station. It has a lot of little shops full of firsthand and secondhand little gifts, intercultural foods and great books. 'De Bourgondiër' is a specialty shop in the Folkingestraat selling local products like wine, typical Groninger sausages, mustard, cheese and candy. Have a look into oriental supermarket Le Souk. The lovely '''Oude Kijk in 't Jatstraat''' has different characteristic shops including plenty of art galleries, a travel bookshop, two branches of a great coffee and tea chain, an excellent independent bakery, a particularly nice cafe, shops selling toys and games, and a few second-hand furniture and clothes shops. Place for the best cake in town. Other noteworthy shopping streets in downtown are '''Oosterstraat''', '''Oude Ebbingestraat''' and '''Zuiderdiep'''. For '''fair & eco fashion''' have a look at Koko Toko at Oosterstraat, Schone Zaken at Nieuwe Ebbingestraat and Diezijner at Zwanestraat. '''Vintage lovers''' go to Stardust at Carolieweg, Recessie and Kroy Classic Wear at Oude Kijk in 't Jatstraat; for vintage furniture have a look at Verroest at Donkersgang. ===Outside the downtown area=== *{{buy | name=Winkelcentrum Paddepoel | alt= | url=http://www.paddepoel.nl/ | email= | address= | directions= | lat=53.23009 | long=6.54403 | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2016-07-29| content= Shopping Centre Paddepoel has more than 80 shops and lies a few kilometers northwest of the city center. The mall offers a broad range of retail stores, mostly chains. Not open on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of every month.}} *{{buy | name=Sontplein | alt= | url= | email= | address= | directions= | lat=53.21551 | long=6.58512 | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2016-07-30| content=Southwest of downtown lies Sontplein. This square is home to some big stores like electronics store Media Markt, sports chain Intersport, and the 3rd largest Ikea in Europe with 42,000 m².}} ===Markets=== Both main squares are filled with market stalls during the '''week markets''' on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. You'll find food, street food, fashion and other stalls on the markets. The Vismarkt is named after the fish that were sold on the spot during the centuries and still you can find many fish selling stalls today. Try the typical Dutch fish street food like kibbeling, haring and lekkerbekjes. Local product and market for foodies '''Ommelander Markt''' settles on Harmonieplein square every second Saturday of the month. Local food producers sell their ware at the market such as cheese, meat, honey, fruit and vegetables. '''Klein Berlijn''' is the annual market for vintage fashion and other stuff. Grote Markt square will be covered in vintage treasures. Also good food and coffee. The large free '''Flea market at Koningsdag''' is an institution in Groningen. Many people are selling their second hand or hand-made goods during the Dutch national holiday. It is a large market and the vibe is superb. The market's location is the Singels between the central railway station and the city centre. ==Eat== ===Local specialties=== [[File:Eierbal.jpg|thumb|The famous 'Groninger eierbal' looks like a Scotch Egg.]] A typical 'Groninger' specialty is '''Groninger worst''', a sausage made from raw minced pork which is then air dried. You can buy this sausage in every supermarket and butchery. When visiting a ''snackbar'', you should try a '''eierbal'''. The eierbal is a ball-shaped croquette, filled with veal and a whole egg. The eierbal is seen as the Groninger variant of the Dutch croquette. The Netherlands is known for its cheese. Groningen has some typical Dutch '''cheese stores''': * {{eat | name=Kaashandel van der Ley | alt= | url=http://www.kaasvanderley.nl/index.php?id=1 | email= | address=Oosterstraat 61 | lat=53.21634 | long=6.57051 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-F 09:00-18:00, Sa 09:00-17:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-10-05 | content=Van der Ley is one of the best cheese stores in the world. Look for local organic varieties, such as green pesto cheese or farmers crumblecheese (''boerenbrokkelkaas''). }} * {{eat | name=Groninger Kaasboetiek | alt= | url=http://www.groningerkaasboetiek.nl/ | email= | address=Astraat 5 | lat=53.21669 | long=6.55882 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M 13:00-18:00, Tu-Sa 09:30-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-01-05 | content= }} {{eatpricerange | Under €15 | €15-30 | Over €30}} Groningen continues the 'simple and straightforward' cuisine that the Netherlands is known for. Nevertheless the centre of Groningen has many nice little cafes or restaurants where you can eat. As befits a real university city, there are plenty of cafe-restaurants where you can eat for about €15. ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Eeterie De Globe | alt= | url=http://eeteriedeglobe.nl/ | email= | address=Akerkhof 22 | lat=53.216159 | long=6.562388 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3182226| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Three different main courses each day (one meat, one fish, one veg.). Many customers eat here several times per week. }} * {{eat | name=Land van Kokanje | alt= | url=http://www.landvankokanje.nl/ | email= | address= Oude Boteringestraat 9| lat=53.219085 | long=6.564925 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3180622 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Groningen Oude Boteringetraat 9.JPG | hours=11:00–01:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=For big and great lunch-salads and nice hamburgers. }} *{{eat | name=FEBO | alt= | url=http://www.febo.nl | email= | address=Vismarkt 1 | lat=53.21785 | long=6.56593 | directions=On the corner of the Vismarkt | phone=+31 50 3133102 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Opening hours vary; min. 13:00-00:00, 11:30- 07:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=In case of emergency! If you've left it too late before heading out for food and the restaurants have closed their kitchens, you can get all your deep-fried nutritional needs met at the FEBO automat. }} * {{eat | name=Het Concerthuis | alt= | url=http://www.hetconcerthuis.nl | email= | address=Poelestraat 30 | lat=53.2184 | long=6.5705 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Indie-styled restaurant and bar. Food-sharing is the credo here and lovely place for alternative drinks. }} * {{eat | name=El Maïda | alt= | url=http://www.elmaida.nl/ | email= | address=Folkingestraat 19 | lat= 53.2160183 | long=6.5644430 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Café de Sleutel | alt= | url=https://www.cafedesleutel.nl/ | email= | address=Noorderhaven Z.z. 72 | lat=53.2189421 | long=6.5578254 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Westersingel Bar | alt= | url=http://www.westersingelbar.nl/ | email= | address=Westersingel 1 | lat=53.2165700 | long= 6.5575370 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== *{{eat | name='t Pannekoekschip | alt= | url=http://www.pannekoekschip.nl/ | email= | address=Schuitendiep 1017 | lat=53.217861 | long=6.573088 | directions=It's a masted sailing ship moored on the inner side of the Schuitendiep canal - you can't miss it | phone=+31 50 3120045 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 12:00-21:00 | price=€12-25 | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Unashamedly touristy, the Pannekoekschip ("pancake ship") is an old sailing ship that's been turned into a pancake restaurant, serving huge and delicious Dutch pancakes. }} * {{eat | name=De Uurwerker | alt= | url=http://www.uurwerker.nl | email= | address=Uurwerkersplein 1 | lat=53.2187 | long=6.5616 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€12-25 | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Vibrant restaurant and bar, nice interior and tasteful pizzas. The square in front is shared with De Pintelier bar and crowded on warm nights. }} * {{eat | name=Wadapartja | alt= | url=http://wadapartja.nl | email= | address=Gedempte Zuiderdiep 39-41 | lat=53.2151 | long=6.5677 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€12-25 | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Restaurant serving all kinds of dishes made from local products. The chef likes to give the recipes local character. There are also vegetarian and vegan items. }} * {{eat | name=Blabla | alt= | url=http://www.bla-bla.nl | email= | address=Nieuwe Boteringestraat 9 | lat=53.2224 | long=6.5615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Vegetarian and vegan hotspot. }} *{{eat | name=Eetcafé 't Koetshuys | alt= | url=http://www.eetcafekoetshuys.nl/ | email= | address=Blekerstraat 22-24 | lat=53.216432 | long=6.555747 | directions=near the Fishmarket (vismarkt) | phone=+31 50 310511 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=17:00-21:30 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=A nice little restaurant. Great food, for a nice price. The house specialty is Moroccan style marinated tenderloin. Main courses come with fries, a salad and depending on your dish, warm veggies. }} * {{eat | name=De Herbivoor | alt= | url=http://deherbivoor.nl/ | email= | address=Gedempte Zuiderdiep 59 | lat=53.2148 | long=6.5668 | directions= | phone=+31-61-970-1739 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu W F Sa 11:00-18:00, Th 11:00-21:00, Su 11:00-17:00 | price=€15-30 | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=This place calls itself an "organic, vegan, salad bar". And while sustainability is clearly the focal point of this popular lunch place, you'll find more than just salads here. Think burgers, wraps, soups and sweet pastries - and a daily changing menu, based on seasonal produce. Dinner is only available on Thursdays. }} *{{eat | name=Mr. Mofongo's | alt= | url=http://www.mofongo.nl | email= | address=Oude Boteringestraat 26 | lat=53.219436 | long=6.564264 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3144266 | tollfree= | hours=11:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Fusion-style restaurant with very good dishes for a reasonable price. May get crowded in the summer and during midterms and endterms since the University's library is around the corner. Also a nice place to have a drink later at night. }} * {{eat | name=Ugly Duck | alt= | url=http://uglyduck.nl/ | email= | address=Zwanestraat 28 | lat=53.218146 | long=6.563579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€12-25 | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Main courses including bowl of salad, baked potatoes, vegetables. Really good! }} * {{eat | name=Eetcafe Lambik | alt= | url=https://eetcafe-lambik.nl/ | email= | address=Grote Kruisstraat 73 | lat=53.222763 | long=6.555874 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3144360 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€12-25 | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=This small restaurant serves one meat or fish dish and one vegetarian dish and both dishes change every day. It is located next to the Noorderplantsoen, which makes it a good spot in the summer. }} * {{eat | name=Flo | alt= | url=https://www.florentingroningen.nl/ | email= | address=Langestraat 66 | lat=53.2242 | long=6.5657 | directions=in the former gas factory from 1854 | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Tel-Aviv inspired food. The restyle of the building is extraordinary. }} *{{eat | name=Fujiyama | alt= | url=http://fujiyama.nl | email= | address=Grote Markt 21-B | lat=53.2192 | long=6.5672 | directions= on the corner of the Grote Markt | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Teppanyaki restaurant - though if you want showmanship with your dinner, Fujiyama is the place to go. }} * {{eat | name=De Kleine Moghul | alt= | url=http://www.moghul.nl | email= | address=Nieuwe Boteringestraat 62 | lat=53.224058 | long=6.559167 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€20-30 | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=This tatty-looking small Indian restaurant has an all-Indian staff, but you can only pay with cash and there is no English menu. The food is stunningly good, well worth a visit. }} * {{eat | name=Buurman & Buurman | alt= | url=http://buurman-groningen.nl/ | email= | address=Rodeweg 6 | lat=53.227 | long=6.5614 | directions= | phone=+31 502-041-099 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-Su 17:00-22:00 | price=From €15 for a pizza | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=This fairly new Italian place claims to bake the best pizzas in town, and many of their customers agree. The selection is small, but the ingredients are fresh and the Italian pizzas are baked in a traditional wood oven. }} * {{eat | name=Fatoush | alt= | url=http://www.fatoush.nl | email= | address=Damsterdiep 15 | lat=53.2171 | long=6.5756 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€20-35 | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Libanese food and mezze. Also vegetarian. }} * {{eat | name=Boccaccio | alt= | url=https://boccacciogroningen.leukeetcafe.nl/ | email= | address=Steentilstraat 38 | lat=53.217028 | long=6.572835 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3112126 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=17:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Tuscan cuisine. Great food and atmosphere. Weekly specials offer an excellent and reasonably priced 3- or 4-course menu. Make a reservation if you plan to eat after 18:00 as it can get busy. }} ===Splurge=== *{{eat | name=De Zevende Hemel | alt=Seventh Heaven | url=http://www.zevendehemel.nl/ | email= | address=Zuiderkerkstraat 7 | lat=53.22326 | long=6.562973 | directions=North of the centre, near the Nieuwe Kerk. | phone=+31 50 3145141 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€100+ | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Excellent food and wine but quite pricey; a good place to treat yourself. }} * {{eat | name=Eetwaar | alt= | url=http://www.restauranteetwaargroningen.nl | email= | address=Kleine Leliestraat 33 | lat=53.2221 | long=6.5599 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Restaurant in a picturesque part of the city with a neighborhood vibe. The chef cooks with mainly local and sustainable products. }} *{{eat | name='t Feithhuis | alt= | url=http://www.restaurant-feithhuis.nl/?taal_id=2 | email= | address=Martinikerkhof 10 | lat=53.219167 | long=6.569269 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3135335 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:30-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Close to the Martini tower and Grote Markt, this cafe-restaurant is sited in a historic building, and serves excellent locally sourced food. }} [[File:120411 Martinikerkhof 10 (Feithhuis) Groningen NL.jpg|thumb|The Feithhuis, a former gentleman's mansion, is nowadays a cafe-restaurant]] * {{eat | name=Brussels Lof | alt= | url=http://www.brusselslof.com/ | email= | address=A-kerkstraat 24 | lat=53.21787 | long=6.56225 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3127603 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Great fish and vegetarian dishes. Famous for the cheese fondue. }} * {{eat | name=Voilà | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantvoila.nl/ | email= | address=W.A. Scholtenstraat 39 | lat=53.223 | long=6.5700 | directions= | phone=+31 50-280-1108 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su from 18:00 | price=€100+ | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=This restaurant on the edge of the city centre offers a fine French dining experience. They operate on a table d’hôte-principle, which means that there's no menu to choose from - the chef decides what the fixed 5-course menu for the day is. The dishes rely heavily on seasonal and local ingredients. If you have any dietary restrictions or if you're a vegetarian, make sure to book ahead and inform the restaurant so they can take your wishes into account. There's a pleasant outdoor terrace too. }} * {{eat | name=Houd van Eten | alt= | url=http://www.houdtvaneten.nl | email= | address=Herestraat 96 | lat=53.2147 | long=6.5691 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Cosy restaurant which serves luxurious food based on the French cuisine. }} ==Drink== [[File:Grote markt zuidzijde.jpg|thumb|350px|De Drie Gezusters]] Groningen's reputation as a university town is borne out in its nightlife, which is comprehensive, with numerous options for drinking and clubbing. There are also several places to play pool/billiards. Most bars have the standard Dutch beers, but more and more international, especially Belgian, beers are beginning to have a presence. Bars in the down town area do not have fixed closing hours. Theoretically they can stay open for 24 hours a day, which a few bars do. The largest nightlife area in Groningen is the '''Poelestraat''' area, located southeast of the Grote Markt. Here you'll find a lot of clubs and bars. The busiest nights are Thursday to Friday (student night) and Saturday to Sunday. Some of the biggest electronic music parties in the Netherlands can be found here and are listed on [http://partyflock.nl/party/ Partyflock] (in Dutch). ===For a drink=== This is a list of bars which are excellent for a drink during the day and during the evening. You'll find most bars and cafes around Grote Markt square, Gedempte Zuiderdiep and Poelestraat. Don't forget however to have a look for bars in the other streets. * {{drink | name=De Pintelier | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kleine Kromme Elleboog 9 | lat=53.21863 | long=6.56166 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open daily from 15:00, closing Su-Th at 02:00 and F and Sa at 03:00 | price= | content=Traditional Belgian pub serving more than 80 kinds of beer and whiskey. }} * {{drink | name=Cafe de Koffer | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nieuwe Blekerstraat 1 | lat=53.21631 | long=6.55539 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 16:00-03:00 | price= | lastedit= | content=Another "speciaalbier" pub. Lots of bottled beers, and a few on tap. Most are Belgian or Dutch, but there are also a few American and British beers on the menu - a real rarity around here. }} * {{drink | name=Der Witz | alt= | url= | email= | address=Grote Markt 47 | lat=53.21801 | long=6.56717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=GroteMarkt47.JPG | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A 'Brown Café' on the Grote Markt in a very small building. Serving many kinds of beer. }} * {{drink | name=Het Kasteel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peperstraat 25 | lat=53.21793 | long=6.57062 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A compact international student hangout on Peperstraat. Sells Jäger and other shots for €1 and 13-beer 'zwaards' ('a sword') for €10. }} * {{drink | name=Huis de Beurs | alt= | url= | email= | address=A-Kerkhof Zuid Zijde 4 | lat=53.21665 | long=6.56390 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=20090420 Korenbeurs 2745x1268.jpg | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=On the southwestern corner of Vismarkt. Has made a come-back and is very trendy now. Live piano music in the evening. The first Dutch socialist party was founded here. }} * {{drink | name=De Drie Gezusters | alt=Three Sisters | url=http://www.driegezustersgroningen.nl/ | email= | address=Grote Markt 39 | lat=53.21826 | long=6.56809 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Grote markt zuidzijde.jpg | content=Possibly the largest bar in the Netherlands, as well as in Europe. Many bars connected in a mazelike fashion; has several façades on the Grote Markt that look like separate bars, but don't let that deceive you. }} * {{drink | name=De Kostery | alt= | url=http://www.dekostery.nl/ | email= | address=Martinikerkhof 2 | lat=53.21926 | long=6.56829 | directions=corner of the Grote Markt, next to the Martinitoren | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Martinikerk en kosterij.jpg | hours= | price= | content=Family style. Nice terrace in summertime. }} * {{drink | name=O'Cealleighs | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gedempte Kattendiep 13 | lat=53.21662 | long=6.57211 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A small Irish pub with good atmosphere; the place people go to play a bit of Irish folk in the evening. }} * {{drink | name=The Pacific | alt= | url=http://www.pacific-groningen.nl | email= | address=Oosterstraat 65 | lat=53.2163 | long=6.5706 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Aussie pub in Groningen and '''the''' meeting place for expats. Mostly international staff. }} * {{drink | name=O'Malley's Pub | alt= | url=http://www.omalleys.nl | email= | address=Oosterstraat 67 | lat=53.2162 | long=6.5706 | directions=next to The Pacific | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Irish pub. Great place to watch football. Every Wednesday live jam sessions. }} * {{drink | name=NEWS Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.newscafe.nl | email= | address= | lat=53.21818 | long=6.56666 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Elegant urban cafe and restaurant, also a great place for dinner. }} * {{drink | name=Mr. Mofongo | alt= | url=http://www.mofongo.nl | email= | address=Oude Boteringestraat 26 | lat=53.2194 | long=6.5642 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Next to dining a bar which brings the Groningen drinking scene into the 21st century. Mr. Mofongo introduced the gin wall and gin robot storing its own distilled spirits. On the roof is a greenhouse bar for street food and there is a wine bar. Absolute hotspot. }} * {{drink | name=De Minnaar | alt= | url=http://deminnaar.nl | email= | address=Kleine Rozenstraat 64 | lat=53.2228 | long=6.5594 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Lovely neighborhood cafe and bar. Nice vibe and local feeling. Many locals come here for a drink. }} * {{drink | name=Chaplin's | alt= | url=http://www.chaplinspub.nl | email= | address=Gedempte Zuiderdiep 73 | lat=53.2146 | long=6.5660 | directions=opposite the cinema | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=One of the many bars at Gedempte Zuiderdiep. Quite popular bar, also with students. }} * {{drink | name=Barrel | alt= | url=http://www.barrel-wijn.nl | email= | address=Haddingestraat 27 | lat=53.2158 | long=6.5657 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Groningen's only Italian-styled enoteca (wine bar). }} * {{drink | name=Wijnkelder 't Huys van Groningen | alt= | url=http://wijnkeldervanhethuys.nl | email= | address=Oosterstraat 53 | lat=53.2167 | long=6.5700 | directions=at the northern tip of the Noorderplantsoen | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Wine bar and gastronomy in a cellar. }} *{{Drink|name=Bramble|url=https://www.bramblegroningen.nl|email=info@bramblegroningen.nl|address=Noorderstationsstraat 2, 9717 KN Groningen|lat=53.2277554|long=6.5599038|phone=+31 6 53 92 55 60|hours=Su M 15:00-23:00, W-Sa 15:00-01:00, Tu closed|lastedit=2021-08-01|content=A cocktail and wine bar run by a friendly family. Among the best drinks in the city. Their Purple Rain is the most photogenic cocktail in the Northern Netherlands and only costs €8.}} ===Nightlife=== Nightlife in Groningen is as important as life during the day. The city never sleeps and no venue has to close early. Venues ranges from life music podiums which originate from the underground scene, clubs, night cafes, and a fully grown-up electrohouse/techno scene. *{{drink | name=Kokomo Beachclub | url=http://www.kokomobeachclub.nl | email= | address=Gelkingestraat 1 | lat=53.21816 | long=6.56789 | directions=Corner of the Grote Markt | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the biggest clubs in Groningen. On Thursday's it's packed with students (10 beers for &euro;10). Plays great dance music in weekends and serves fine cocktails. }} * {{drink | name=Vera underground pop club | alt= | url=http://www.vera-groningen.nl/ | email= | address= | lat=53.21707 | long=6.57013 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2017-07-11| content=Where Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Sonic Youth, the White Stripes and many others performed. Internationally Vera is probably the best-known stage for alternative music in Groningen, and it is one of the most appreciated music venues in the Netherlands. Check the concert posters which are designed by local artists - free to take at the concert itself. | image=Vera-Groningen.JPG }} * {{drink | name=Simplon | alt= | url=http://www.simplon.nl/ | email= | address= | lat=53.22454 | long=6.5641 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=An internationally renowned venue with an impressive history, especially in punk music. Every week on Thursday the club is dedicated to local (young) talent. }} * {{drink | name=Oceans 41 | alt= | url=https://www.ocean41.nl | email= | address=Grote Markt 41 | lat=53.2182 | long=6.5676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Beach club right in the middle of Groningen - very popular among students. }} <!-- commenting these out until some details can be provided - address, website, hours, type of clientele: * Het Pakhuis * Night cafe Warhol * Het Feest * De Negende Cirkel * The Jack--> * {{drink | name=Night cafe Warhol | alt= | url=http://www.nachtcafewarhol.nl | email= | address=Papengang 6 | lat=53.2175 | long=6.5703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-11 | content=Quite alternative venue with its roots in the 1970s/1980s underground scene. Good vibe though. Best to go after 02:00. }} * {{drink | name=Het Pakhuis | alt= | url=http://hetpakhuisgroningen.nl | email= | address=Peperstraat 8-2 | lat=53.2180 | long=6.5711 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-11 | content=Venue which originates from the 1960s/70s art scene. Now a popular art pop club. Many internationals meet here. }} * {{drink | name=Shooters | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/FeestcafeShooters050/ | email= | address=Peperstraat 4-6 | lat=53.2178 | long=6.5709 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-11 | content=One of many student bars and clubs in this area. }} ==== Gay nightlife==== Groningen is not renowned for its gay clubs. However, the normal nightlife scene is quite open-minded, especially the clubs with roots in the alt scene. Luckily there are LQBT+ and LGBT+-friendly bars and clubs in the city. * {{drink | name=De Kast | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/dekastgroningen/ | email= | address=Oosterstraat 7a | lat=53.21818 | long=6.5689 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content=Premier gay bar and gay club Galaxy. Most LGBT+ people come to this place. }} * {{drink | name=Dorothy's DragQueen Showbar | alt= | url=https://www.dorothysdragbar.com | email= | address=Pottebakkersrijge 2 | lat=53.2165 | long=6.5590 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-08-24 | content=People come here to see Drag Shows, Drag events, Bingo, have a drink with friends, along other things like BDSM Meets, open stage and live music. }} * {{drink | name=Tram 13 | alt= | url=http://www.tram13.nl/Site/Welkom.html | email= | address=Gelkingestraat 13 | lat=53.2175 | long=6.5682 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-09 | content='Normal' bar in which many LGBT+ people meet. Home bar for the gay student fraternity Ganymedes. }} LGBT+ people are also very welcome in '''VERA''', '''OOST''', and '''Night cafe Warhol'''. ===Electrohouse & techno scene=== Despite its size, there is a mature electrohouse and techno scene in Groningen. The city was quite alternative in the 1960s, 70s and 80s. This led to the unofficial underground capital of the Netherlands providing residence to a few great internationally renowned music venues. * {{drink | name=Paradigm050 | alt= | url=http://www.paradigm050.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat=53.2103 | long=6.5383 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-11 | content=King of the rave clubs in Groningen. Paradigm invites many famous international artists to play in the venue. It's known for their loodsraves, Sunday afternoon collectives, Vrijdag Middag Collectief, and Paradigm invites. }} * {{drink | name=OOST | alt= | url=https://www.komoost.nl | email= | address=Oosterstraat 13a | lat=53.21785 | long=6.56911 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-11 | content=Intimate techno/house/funk club down town Groningen. Every Friday and Saturday doors will open for a new night of quality music. }} * {{drink | name=Subsonic | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Subsonicgroningen/ | email= | address=Peperstraat 11 | lat=53.2180 | long=6.5707 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-11 | content=A popular club with electro music lovers. }} * {{drink | name=KopjeK | alt= | url=http://kopjek.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-11 | content=Techno house collective which dwells across the city and settles for rave nights on special locations. Concepts are Like I Care (LIC) in pyjamas or in the pool, Warehouse, Festival, Tanzen auf den Boot, etc. }} ===Coffeeshops=== {{seealso|Netherlands#Drugs}} Groningen has a few excellent coffeeshops, where you can buy and smoke cannabis products at a reasonable price. Alcohol is not served in any of the coffeeshops. * {{drink | name=Café Dees | alt= | url=http://www.cafedees.nl/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Papengang 3 | lat=53.217495 | long=6.570461 | directions= | phone=+31 50 313 2410 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A cozy café with a nice selection of weed in a small alley right next to the bar street Peperstraat. Inside there's a pool table, computers for surfing and big TV screens. Upstairs there's a bar called ''de Zolder'' ("''the Attic''") where you can smoke. There are reggae concerts on Tuesday nights. }} * {{drink | name=Metamorphose | alt= | url= | email= | address=Oude Boteringestraat 53 | lat=53.220424| long=6.563852 | directions= | phone=+31 50 314 4460| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice little alternative shop, with mostly organic stuff. They serve a large variety of fresh tea. }} * {{drink | name=De Vliegende Hollander | alt= | url=http://www.de-vliegende-hollander.nl/ | email= | address=Gedempte Zuiderdiep 63 | lat=53.21479 | long=6.56647 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great stuff on Zuiderdiep, opposite the Pathé cinema. Inside there's a smoking room but no real hangout space. }} * {{drink | name=De Medley | url= | email= | address=Gedempte Zuiderdiep 64 | lat=53.21449 | long=6.56688 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A good pick up coffee shop. Can't smoke inside or stay there, but it's quite cheap. Joints for €3, also many kinds of hash (like Maroc and Afghan) for about €5-6 & weed/''wiet'': powerplant, ''sneeuwwitje'' (snow white), ''Afgaan'' (Afghan) €6, 10 or 20. }} ===Red light districts=== Window prostitution in Groningen takes place in the [http://www.nieuwstadgroningen.nl/ '''Nieuwstad'''] area, with over a 100 windows in the street. A typical price is €50 for 15 minutes. ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under €50|€50 to €100|Over €100}} As it is a fairly popular city trip destination among the Dutch, Groningen has plenty of choices for places to stay. There are no real top-end hotels however, so if you're out for luxury, you'll have to resort to some of the better mid-range places. Still, there are several very nice, historic hotels as well as a range of semi-modern and modern mid-range options. Travellers minding their budgets will find that accommodation here is relatively cheap. ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Camping Stadspark | alt= | url=http://campingstadspark.nl/ | email=info@campingstadspark.nl | address=Campinglaan 6, 9727 KH Groningen | lat=53.203719 | long=6.534246 | directions=2 miles SW of city centre | phone=+31 50 5251624 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=€18 for a spot, 2 people and showers | lastedit=2018-08-10 | content=Open from March to October, this camping ground is in the ''Stadspark'', a large, wooded park just outside the ring road. If you're carrying a tent, this can be a nice budget alternative. Reception closes for lunch. Bring your own toilet paper. Free Wi-Fi around reception area only. On-site restaurant/cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Simplon Youth Hotel | alt=Simplon Jongerenhotel | url=http://www.simplon-jongerenhotel.nl | email= | address=Boterdiep 73 | lat=53.224818 | long=6.563686 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3135221 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=SimplonGroningen.png | content=This youth hostel has been around for a long time and remains a popular budget pick. Bunk-beds starting at €18.50. Rooms for up to 6 people are available, too. }} * {{sleep | name=RebelRebel Hostel | alt= | url=https://rebelrebelhostel.com/ | email=hey@rebelrebelhostel.com | address=Energieweg 10 | lat=53.2113 | long=6.5373 | directions= | phone=+31 683695965 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=€17 | lastedit= | content=The only container hostel in the country. Environmentally responsible, offering breakfast and bike rentals. }} * {{sleep | name=Scandinavisch Dorp | alt= Scandinavian Village Cabins | url=http://www.scandinavischdorp.nl | email=scandinavischdorp@home.nl | address=Oude Badweg 1 Eelderwolde | lat=53.169453 | long=6.555362 | directions= | phone=+31 50 5256867 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=€49 for two persons | lastedit= | content=The 'Scandinavian Village' by the Paterswoldsemeer lake offers nice cabins in Scandinavian style. The cabins will provide you with a terrace, kitchen with a refrigerator, kitchenware and bathroom. }} ===Mid-range=== [[File:Hampshire Hotel Façade (5312556618).jpg|thumb|Hampshire Plaza Hotel Façade]] [[File:La Liberté Groningen.JPG|thumb|Apollo Hotel]] [[File:Overzicht op poort, gezien vanaf Martinikerkhof - Groningen - 20531282 - RCE.jpg|thumb|Monumental Prinsenhof Hotel]] * {{sleep | name=Apollo Hotel | url=http://www.apollohotelsresorts.com/ | email= | address=Laan van de Vrijheid 91 | lat=53.20037 | long=6.55470 | directions= | phone=+31 50 7630070 | tollfree= | fax= | image= | hours= | price=From €80 for a double | checkin= | checkout= | content=In the La Liberté high-rise building, nice views. }} * {{sleep | name=Bud Gett Hostel | alt= | url=http://www.budgetthostels.nl/en/ | email= | address=Rademarkt 3-3a | lat=53.215818 | long=6.571307 | directions=half way between the railway station and the city centre | phone=+31 50 5886558 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm beds from €25, private doubles from €55 | content=Its decoration is inspired by Dutch painter Piet Mondrian and beds are made when you arrive. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=City Hotel Groningen | alt= | url=https://www.cityhotelgroningen.com | email=info.citygroningen@edenhotels.nl | address=Gedempte Kattendiep 25 | lat=53.217121 | long=6.57271 | directions= | phone=+31 50 588 6565 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From €60 for a double | lastedit=2019-05-29 | content=This large hotel has simple but modern rooms and a nice rooftop terrace. It can be a little bit noisy at times, but overall this place gives good value for money. Rooms come in different types, with the more expensive ones being quite a bit more spacious. The staff is helpful and there are facilities like a sauna and Turkish steam bath. The hotel rents out bikes for €5. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Corps De Garde | alt= | url=http://www.corpsdegarde.nl/ | email= | address=Oude Boteringestraat 74 | lat=53.221054 | long=6.562849 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3175510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From €99 for a double | content=Housed in a monumental 1634 building. Although equipped with all the modern day facilities you'd expect, it manages to retain its historic atmosphere. The only downside is that there's no space for an elevator, but the staff is very helpful, the breakfast very good and the lounge quite inviting. It has bikes for rent. Car parking in the direct surroundings can be expensive. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel de Doelen | alt= | url=http://www.hotel-dedoelen.nl/ | email= | address=Grote Markt | lat=53.2183 | long=6.56842 | directions=at the foot of the Martini tower, facing the Grote Markt | phone=+31 50 3127041 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=GroteMarkt36.JPG | content=This hotel has been receiving visitors for some 200 years and the decorations clearly intend to maintain the characteristic feel, but all modern facilities are in place. The only downsides are the steep stairs to the entrance and - as with many places in the city centre - you'll have to park your car in one of the public garages. }} * {{sleep | name=Martini Hotel | alt= | url=https://martinihotel.nl/?lang=en | email= | address=Gedempte Zuiderdiep 8 | lat=53.215725 | long=6.570932 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3175510 | tollfree= | fax= | image=130420 Gedempte Zuiderdiep 8-10 (vm Hotel WEEVA - Martini Hotel) Groningen NL.jpg | checkin= | checkout= | price=From €64.50 for a double | content=Guests have been accommodated in this building since 1871. It's a bit dated and the rooms are small and simple, there's a nice bar downstairs and the prices are quite reasonable too. It has triple rooms, if you're a party of three. Private parking is available but costs €12.50 and should be reserved in advance, as it is sometimes full. }} * {{sleep | name=NH Hotel De Ville | url=http://www.deville.nl | email=nhhoteldeville@nh-hotels.com | address=Oude Boteringestraat 43 | lat=53.22009 | long=6.56390 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3181222 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Groningen Oude Boteringestraat 43.jpg | hours= | price=From €87 for a double | checkin= | checkout= | content=This four-star hotel in the city centre is decorated with a historic touch. Some of the rooms are a bit outdated but the staff is friendly and will park your bike in the nearby public garage, although the parking fees are fairly high. }} * {{sleep | name=Stee in Stad | url=https://www.steeinstad.nl/ | email= | address=Boterdiep 111 | lat=53.23338 | long=6.56454 | directions= | phone=+31 50 3175510 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Singles/doubles from €50/69 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Three houses have been transformed into a hotel. In each house there are three rooms. Every room has a different theme. It's staffed by people who otherwise have few chances on the labour market and often have been on income support for a long time. At the hotel they can (re)experience what it's like to have a job and acquire the job skills. However, this place is more than a social business initiative. It's also a pleasant hotel at 5-minute walk from the old centre. Several rooms have shared bathrooms. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Prinsenhof | url=http://www.prinsenhof-groningen.nl/en | email= | address=Martinikerkhof 23 | lat=53.22087 | long=6.56892 | directions=in the middle of Groningen city centre, metres from the Martini Tower | phone=+31 50 3176550 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Overzicht op poort, gezien vanaf Martinikerkhof - Groningen - 20531283 - RCE.jpg | hours= | price=From €149 for a double, Royal Suite €399 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Prinsenhof Groningen offers a grand café, a hotel and an à-la-carte restaurant. }} ==Cope== ===Hospitals=== [[File:Oostvleugel Martiniziekenhuis Groningen.JPG|thumb|The east wing of the Martini Hospital]] [[File:20151214 Poortweg UMCG Groningen NL.jpg|thumb|The "Poortstreet" within the UMCG Hospital]] In case of medical emergency, Groningen is well-served by a wide variety of hospitals and other medical facilities. The '''University Medical Center Groningen''' (UMCG) is the main hospital. It is one of the largest hospitals in the world, offering supraregional tertiary care to the northern part of the Netherlands. The '''Martini Hospital''' is the second hospital, located in the south of the city. ===Consulates=== {| |- | style="width:50%;" | * {{flag|Austria}} {{listing | name=Austria | url= | email=hkaustria@benkadvocaten.nl | address=Stedumermaar 10 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+31 50 5445399 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Belgium}} {{listing | name=Belgium | url= | email=gerner@hetnet.nl | address=Schaphalsterzijl 1 Winsum | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+31 50 5257401 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Czech Republic}} {{listing | name=Czech Republic | url= | email=groningen@honorary.mzv.cz | address=Radesingel 50| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+31 50 3162525 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Denmark}} {{listing | name=Denmark | url= | email=consulaatvandenemarken@home.nl | address=Pottebakkersrijge 16 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+31 50 3138632 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|France}} {{listing | name=France | url= | email=consulfrancenord@gmail.com | address=Oude Kijk In 'T Jatstraat 26 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+31 50 3636106 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} | * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany | url= | email=groningen@hk-diplo.de | address=Leonard Springerlaan 15 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+31 50 5204280 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Hungary}} {{listing | name=Hungary | url= | email=s.leistra@boercroon.nl | address=Ubbo Emmiussingel 51 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+31 50 3139140 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Lithuania}} {{listing | name=Lithuania | url=http://www.ltconnect.nl/ | email=info@ltconnect.nl | address=Concourslaan 17 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+31 50 92375467 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Norway}} {{listing | name=Norway | url= | email=de4posten@freeler.nl | address=Handelskade Oost 1 Delfzijl | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+31 596 630464 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Sweden}} {{listing | name=Sweden | url=http://www.zweedsconsulaat.nl/ | email=noordnederland@zweedsconsulaat.nl | address=Rostockweg 11 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+31 50 5445780 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} |} == Connect == As of July 2022, Groningen has 5G from all Dutch carriers. == Go next == * The small town of '''[[Appingedam]]''' with its medieval town centre is well worth exploring, and it is famous for the "hanging kitchens". * The star fort of '''[[Bourtange]]''' is another good choice and is less than an hour away by car. * Explore the historical region of '''[[Middag-Humsterland]]''' by car or bicycle. The region is one of the oldest cultural landscapes of Western Europe and known for the villages built on wierdes (artificial hills) to shelter themselves and their stock from the high tide. * Visit the seal rescue centre in '''[[Pieterburen]]'''. * Catch a bus to Lauwersoog, only to hop on a ferry to the island '''[[Schiermonnikoog]]'''. This small island is a popular day- or weekendtrip destination. * Take the train to '''[[Uithuizen]]''' and visit the Menkemaborg, a particular kind of castle and one of the oldest and best kept examples of its kind in the region. * Visit the '''[[Aa en Hunze|Drentsche Aa National Park]]''' and take a walk in the valley of the small river the Drentsche Aa, through the wide heathlands or the diverse forests. The famous dolmen sites are also here. {{routebox | image1=Tabliczka E22.svg | imagesize1=21 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Amsterdam]] | minorl1=[[Westerkwartier]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Bremen]] | minorr1=[[Midden-Groningen]] | image2=NL-A28.png | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=S | majorl2=[[Utrecht]] | minorl2=[[Tynaarlo]] | directionr2=N | majorr2=END | minorr2= | image3=NLD-N34.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=S | majorl3=[[Emmen]] | minorl3=[[Tynaarlo]] | directionr3=N | majorr3=END | minorr3= | image4=Icon Pieterpad.png | imagesize4=100 | directionl4=N | majorl4=[[Hogeland|Pieterburen]] | minorl4=[[Hogeland|Winsum]] | directionr4=S | majorr4=[[Maastricht|Sint-Pietersberg]] | minorr4=[[Tynaarlo|Zuidlaren]] | link4=Pieterpad | caption4=Pieterpad long distance walking route }} {{isPartOf|Groningen (province)}} {{guidecity}} {{geo|53.219396|6.57526}} 10q568vr8fyg00xneflgp9ot1opwvhu 0 15034 5091060 4952115 2025-07-10T21:14:27Z Gerode 2196717 /* See */ Pulled in Mammoth Site content from [[Badlands National Park]] 5091060 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg|pgname=Hot Springs}} '''Hot Springs''' is a town in western [[South Dakota]], of interest to the traveler as a jumping-off point for nearby [[Wind Cave National Park]]. ==Get in== ==Get around== {{mapframe|layer=W}} ==See== * {{see | name=The Mammoth Site | alt= | url=https://mammothsite.org/ | email= | address=1800 US 18 Bypass | lat=43.4247 | long=-103.483 | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-6017 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open year round, times vary with season. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Easter Sunday. | price=Ages 4 and Under: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $5.50; Ages 13 to 59: $7.50; Ages 60 and over: $7.00 | wikidata=Q14709758 | lastedit=2018-02-25 | content=The world's largest mammoth research facility, built atop an active dig site of Ice Age fossils. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Evans Plunge | alt= | url=http://www.evansplunge.com/ | email= | address=1145 North River St | lat=43.441 | long=-103.48 | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-5165 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-01-10 | content=A water park owned and operated by the City of Hot Springs, that claims to be "the oldest tourist attraction in the Black Hills". }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Fall River Fibers | alt= | url=http://www.FallRiverFibers.com | email=fallriverfibers@yahoo.com | address=631 North River St | lat=43.4361 | long=-103.4809 | directions= | phone=+1 605 890-2750 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00AM-5:00PM | price= | lastedit=2021-01-10 | content=Yarn, spinning, weaving & fiber arts supplies. Lovely shop and helpful staff. They have local yarns and buffalo blends. Worth a stop for knitters. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Mornin' Sunshine Coffee House & Gifts | alt= | url= | email= | address=509 North River St. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-5550 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-25 | content=Terrific breakfast, baked goodies and coffee. Friendly. Art on the wall is for sale. Opens 7am daily, except Sunday opens at 8am. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Historic Log Cabin Motel | alt= | url=https://historiclogcabinsinc.com/Home | email= | address=500 Pacific Ave | lat=43.4421 | long=-103.4764 | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-5166 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$85 | lastedit=2018-02-25 | content=17 charming log cabins built on a hillside quad in 1929. Cabins are heated and of different sizes, ranging from 1-4 beds, with shower bathroom. Dog friendly. }} ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 18.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=Ends at [[Douglas (Wyoming)|N]] [[Image:I-25.svg|18px]] [[Cheyenne|S]] | minorl1=[[Lusk]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=Jct [[Sioux Falls|N]] [[Image:I-29.svg|18px]] [[Sioux City|S]] | minorr1=[[Pine Ridge]] | image2=US 385.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=N | majorl2=[[Deadwood]] | minorl2=[[Custer]] | directionr2=S | majorr2=[[Sidney (Nebraska)|Sidney]] | minorr2=[[Chadron]] | image3=SD 71.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=N | majorl3=END | minorl3= | directionr3=S | majorr3=[[Scottsbluff]] | minorr3=becomes [[File:N-2.svg|18px]][[File:N-71.svg|18px]] → [[Crawford (Nebraska)|Crawford]] }} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|43.4333|-103.4833}} {{isPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} 5y8688vk42v9ievpdxius0655ywiuky 5091157 5091060 2025-07-11T02:32:18Z Gerode 2196717 Elaborated on Intro and Mammoth Site listing 5091157 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg|pgname=Hot Springs}} '''Hot Springs''' is a town of about 3,000 people in the [[Black Hills and Badlands|Black Hills]] of western [[South Dakota]], founded as a resort around a historic warm spring. It's a jumping-off point for nearby [[Wind Cave National Park]]. ==Get in== Hot Springs is at the junction of '''US Highway 385''' and '''US Highway 18'''. ==Get around== {{mapframe|layer=W}} ==See== * {{see | name=The Mammoth Site | alt= | url=https://mammothsite.org/ | email= | address=1800 US 18 Bypass | lat=43.4247 | long=-103.483 | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-6017 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily, 8AM-6PM May-Aug, 9AM-5PM Aug-Oct, 9AM-3:30PM Nov-Feb, 9AM-5PM Mar-May | price=$15, discount for youth/seniors/military | wikidata=Q14709758 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The world's largest mammoth research facility. The museum encloses a prehistoric sinkhole that formed and was slowly filled with sediments and trapped wildlife during the Pleistocene era. Mammoth bones were found at the site in 1974, and a museum for ''in situ'' preservation was built soon after. It remains an active excavation site: the remains of 61 mammoths have been recovered so far. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Evans Plunge | alt= | url=http://www.evansplunge.com/ | email= | address=1145 North River St | lat=43.441 | long=-103.48 | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-5165 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-01-10 | content=A water park owned and operated by the City of Hot Springs, that claims to be "the oldest tourist attraction in the Black Hills". }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Fall River Fibers | alt= | url=http://www.FallRiverFibers.com | email=fallriverfibers@yahoo.com | address=631 North River St | lat=43.4361 | long=-103.4809 | directions= | phone=+1 605 890-2750 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00AM-5:00PM | price= | lastedit=2021-01-10 | content=Yarn, spinning, weaving & fiber arts supplies. Lovely shop and helpful staff. They have local yarns and buffalo blends. Worth a stop for knitters. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Mornin' Sunshine Coffee House & Gifts | alt= | url= | email= | address=509 North River St. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-5550 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-25 | content=Terrific breakfast, baked goodies and coffee. Friendly. Art on the wall is for sale. Opens 7am daily, except Sunday opens at 8am. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Historic Log Cabin Motel | alt= | url=https://historiclogcabinsinc.com/Home | email= | address=500 Pacific Ave | lat=43.4421 | long=-103.4764 | directions= | phone=+1 605 745-5166 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$85 | lastedit=2018-02-25 | content=17 charming log cabins built on a hillside quad in 1929. Cabins are heated and of different sizes, ranging from 1-4 beds, with shower bathroom. Dog friendly. }} ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 18.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=Ends at [[Douglas (Wyoming)|N]] [[Image:I-25.svg|18px]] [[Cheyenne|S]] | minorl1=[[Lusk]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=Jct [[Sioux Falls|N]] [[Image:I-29.svg|18px]] [[Sioux City|S]] | minorr1=[[Pine Ridge]] | image2=US 385.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=N | majorl2=[[Deadwood]] | minorl2=[[Custer]] | directionr2=S | majorr2=[[Sidney (Nebraska)|Sidney]] | minorr2=[[Chadron]] | image3=SD 71.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=N | majorl3=END | minorl3= | directionr3=S | majorr3=[[Scottsbluff]] | minorr3=becomes [[File:N-2.svg|18px]][[File:N-71.svg|18px]] → [[Crawford (Nebraska)|Crawford]] }} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|43.4333|-103.4833}} {{isPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} 4jw5vtl8w9mul2fw7hvlh4jwbv8c1ty 0 15662 5090943 5088874 2025-07-10T16:23:21Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Bolivarian Games */ 5090943 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|MalmöFF Fans banner.jpg|caption=Fans of Malmö FF, a Swedish football team}} '''Spectator sports''' are those where the players are greatly outnumbered by their audience, often a thousandfold and sometimes a millionfold for the biggest events. These usually involve travel, often long-distance, so there is a distinct experience of sports travel for those crowds, covered on this page. See [[Sports]] for those you participate in yourself, watched (if at all) by a few family members or ex-players. See [[Activities]] for the broader sphere of mostly non-competitive pastimes such as bird-watching. == Understand == [[File:Olympic Torch 2010.jpg | thumb | 300px | Lighting the Olympic flame from the sun]] Spectator sports have a long history: in the western tradition this is exemplified by the ancient Olympic Games. But mass travelling audiences only emerged in the 19th century, with the development of leisure time, disposable income, and public transport. Indeed the Olympics are a 19th-century reinvention, with the ancient event lapsing around 400 AD and the modern version launching in Athens in 1896. In the 19th and 20th centuries, three tribes emerged: an elite of professional players, an audience watching them direct or on TV or internet, and the "grassroots" playing at amateur or junior level. Of course there is overlap, but the stark feature today is how different those worlds have become; certainly their travel experiences could not be more different. The divergence caused great soul-searching in sports associations, and sometimes acrimonious splits. It's no spoiler to say that big money and big business won, and spectator sports are designed to extract their followers' cash not only by gate receipts, but by advertising and sponsorship, by merchandising, by broadcasting rights, and by gambling. Spectator sports are also a matter of national prestige and policy: countries market themselves as sports destination, and by "sports-washing" deflect attention from their unattractive regimes. The live audience for big events is nowadays greatly outnumbered by TV and internet viewers, and developments in virtual reality promise to take this further. But for the time being, the crowd is essential to the event. They descend in partisan masses upon the host city, throng the pubs and transport hubs, and book up accommodation. Their chants and slogans, team regalia, cheers and boos, all create an intense atmosphere. Alcohol-fuelled violence has too often been a by-product. Early spectators simply milled around the playing area, craning to see the action. It's still like that in golf, where crowds follow their favourite player from hole to hole, and in on-road races for cycling and motor sports where the biggest audience is close to the finish line but people find vantage points all along the way. Larger crowds made this unmanageable for most sports, so embankments then stadiums were built: modern examples are huge and architecturally exciting. Stadiums may be multi-purpose or dedicated to one sport, and a big division is between those for ball games, and those incorporating a running track, which makes them suitable for Olympics but distances the crowd. They may be "borrowed" for events, for instance international rugby matches may use a soccer stadium simply for extra capacity. The upkeep of a stadium (even a small one) is usually part-financed by a sponsorship deal, so they change their names for the length of the deal, sometimes just for a specific event. Signage on streets and public transport can't keep up with this so be sure to check not only which stadium you're going to, but any other names it's locally known by. Every big city has a sports or other mass event at least once a week, so they are well-practised in signage, stewarding and crowd safety, extra and diverted transport, and policing. See individual city pages for accommodation, and other things to see and do there. See [[Events]] for the very largest, which embroil entire countries for days on end. These draw a travelling army of fans following their teams from city to city as the tournament progresses, so even if you don't plan to attend, you have to factor the event into your travel plans. ==Articles about watching sports== <div style="{{column-width|25em}}"> * [[Spectator sports in Japan]] * [[American football]] * [[Association football]] ** [[Association football in Europe]] * [[Australian rules football]] * [[Baseball]] ** [[Baseball in the United States]] * [[Basketball in North America]] * [[Boxing]] * [[Bullfighting]] * [[Cricket]] * [[Field hockey]] * [[Formula One]] * [[Golf]] * [[Handball in Europe]] * [[Horse racing]] * [[Ice hockey in Europe]] * [[Ice hockey in North America]] * [[Martial arts]] * [[Motorcycle speedway]] * [[Olympic Games]] * [[Rugby football]] * [[Tennis]] </div> ==Events with multiple sports== ===African Games === The African Games are held among the countries of Africa. * '''2027''': [[Cairo]], Egypt, 20 January–7 February. * '''2031''': [[Kinshasa]], DR Congo (dates TBA). ===Asian Games=== The [http://www.ocasia.org Asian Games]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} among the countries of Asia; the second largest multi-sports games after the Summer Olympics. Features some sports that are popular in Asia but not contested at the Olympics such as wushu (Chinese martial arts), kabbadi, sepak takraw and dragon boat racing, as well as some globally-popular non-Olympic sports such as tenpin bowling and squash. The Asian Games also have added several popular esports as official medal events. The Winter Asian Games are operated by the same body but feature only winter sports. Normally held in the year before the Winter Olympics. * '''2026''': 19 September–4 October, [[Nagoya]], [[Japan]] * '''2030''': [[Doha]], [[Qatar]] * '''2034''': [[Riyadh]], [[Saudi Arabia]] <!-- ===Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games=== --> ===Bolivarian Games=== * '''2025''': November 23 to December 7 in [[Ayacucho]] and [[Lima]], [[Peru]] ===Central American Games === The Central American Games, only involving the seven nations of [[Central America]]. * '''2026''': Dates and host TBA ===Central America and Caribbean Games === The [https://inside.fei.org/fei/games/cont-reg-games/central-american-caribbean Central America and Caribbean Games] — the second oldest international multi-sport games. * '''2026''': Dates TBA, [[Santo Domingo]], [[Dominican Republic]] ===Commonwealth Games=== The [https://www.commonwealthsport.com Commonwealth Games] among the countries of the [[British Empire#Commonwealth countries|Commonwealth of Nations]]; the fourth-largest multi-sports games. Unlike other multi-sport events, para-sports events are held as part of the main games with the able-bodied sports events. Features some non-Olympic sports that are popular in the Commonwealth such as lawn bowls, squash and netball. [[England]], [[Scotland]], [[Wales]] and [[Northern Ireland]] send separate teams to the Commonwealth Games, in contrast to the Olympics where they send a unified [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]] team. The next games in 2026 had been scheduled for the Australian state of Victoria, but the state government pulled out in July 2023, citing financial concerns. [[Glasgow]], Scotland was announced as the new host in September 2024; the 2026 games will be considerably scaled down from past editions, with only 10 sports and no athletes' village. === Deaflympics=== The [https://www.deaflympics.com Deaflympics] is an IOC-sanctioned event for athletes with hearing impairments. Although the sports are largely the same as the Olympics, modifications are made to not rely on sounds such as starter's guns, spoken commands or referee whistles. Separate summer and winter games are held. * '''2025 Summer Deaflympics''': 15–26 November in [[Tokyo]], Japan ===European Games=== The [http://www.european-games.org/ European Games] among [[Europe]]an countries. The newest continental-level multi-sport event, with its first edition in 2015. Also in the year before the Summer Olympics. * '''2027''' in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]; dates TBA ===Gay Games=== The [https://www.gaygames.org Gay Games] attract mostly LGBT athletes, though are open to all. * '''2026''': [[Valencia]], [[Spain]] * '''2030''': Host to be announced in November 2025 ===Jeux de la Francophonie=== [https://www.jeux.francophonie.org Jeux de la Francophonie] among the countries of La Francophonie. The Canadian provinces of [[Quebec]] and [[New Brunswick]] send separate teams from the Canadian team, and the Belgian team is restricted to sending Francophone athletes. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. *'''2027''': Dates and host TBA ===National Games of China=== The National Games of China a multi-sport competition between [[China]]'s [[Chinese provinces and regions|provincial level units]], including [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], as well as teams representing the Chinese military and various Chinese industry groups. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. The standards of the diving and table tennis competitions in particular are regarded by most to be even higher than the Olympics. * '''2025''': [[Guangdong]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] <!-- ===Lusofonia Games=== The [http://www.acolop.org/ Lusofonia Games] among the world's Portuguese-speaking countries. Last held in 2014. ===Mediterranean Games=== --> === Maccabiah Games=== The [https://www.maccabiah.com/en/ Maccabiah Games] for Jewish athletes from 85 nations, and Israelis regardless of ethnicity or religion, are the third-largest multi-sports event by number of competitors after the Summer Olympics and Asian Games. Always held in Israel. * '''2025''': July, Israel ===Olympic Games=== {{main|Olympic Games}} * [[Milan–Cortina 2026|'''2026''': Winter Olympics]], 6 – 22 Feb, [[Milan]] and [[Cortina d'Ampezzo|Cortina]], [[Italy]] * [[Los Angeles 2028|'''2028''': Summer Olympics]], 21 Jul - 6 Aug, [[Los Angeles]], [[United States of America|USA]], with softball and canoe slalom to be held in [[Oklahoma City]] * [[French Alps 2030|'''2030''': Winter Olympics]], 1 - 17 Feb, multiple locations in the [[French Alps]], plus [[Nice]], [[France]] and [[Turin]], [[Italy]] * [[Brisbane 2032|'''2032''': Summer Olympics]], 23 Jul - 8 Aug, [[Brisbane]], [[Australia]] * [[Salt Lake City–Utah 2034|'''2034''': Winter Olympics]], 10 - 26 Feb, [[Salt Lake City]], [[United States of America|USA]], with other venues scattered around the state of [[Utah]] ===Pacific Games=== * The [http://websites.sportstg.com/assoc_page.cgi?c=2-2642-0-0-0&sID=24021 Pacific Games] among the countries of [[Oceania]] except Australia and New Zealand. * '''2027''': Pīraʻe, [[Tahiti]] ===Pan American Games=== The [http://www.panamsports.org Pan American Games] among the countries of the Americas. * '''2027''': Host and dates TBA. Barranquilla, Colombia had been announced as host, but didn't meet contractual obligations and was stripped of hosting rights in January 2024. ===Southeast Asian Games=== The Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), held every two years in odd-numbered years, among the countries of [[Southeast Asia]]. Features some sports that are only popular in Southeast Asia such as sepak takraw and silat. * '''2025''': 7–19 December, [[Bangkok]], Thailand * '''2027''': [[Kuala Lumpur]], Malaysia * '''2029''': Singapore * '''2031''': Laos * '''2033''': Philippines === Special Olympics=== The [https://www.specialolympics.org Special Olympics] are IOC-sanctioned events for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities. ==== Special Olympics World Summer Games ==== * '''2027''': Dates TBA, [[Perth]], [[Australia]] * '''2031''': Dates TBA, [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] ==== Special Olympics World Winter Games ==== * '''2025''': Dates TBA, [[Turin]] and other venues in the [[Piedmont]] region, [[Italy]] * '''2029''': Dates TBA, [[Chur]] and other venues in the [[Graubünden]] canton, [[Switzerland]] <!-- ===Student Games=== --> ===World Games=== Held every four years in the year after the summer Olympic Games. No events overlap with any contested in the Olympics. Many of the sports are not part of the Olympic program at all; the World Games also feature many non-Olympic disciplines or events within Olympic sports. The events are organized by the International World Games Association, which is recognized by the IOC. * '''2025''': 7–17 July, [[Chengdu]], China ==Events for a single sport== ===American football=== {{main|American football}} ==== National Football League ==== * '''Super Bowl LX''' – 8 February 2026 at Levi's Stadium in [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]], [[California]] (home to the San Francisco 49ers). * '''Super Bowl LXI''' – 14 February 2027 at SoFi Stadium in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Inglewood]], California (home to the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams). * '''Super Bowl LXII''' – Date TBA in February 2028 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in [[Atlanta/Downtown|downtown]] [[Atlanta]], Georgia (home to the Atlanta Falcons). =====NFL International Series===== At least five regular season games, with three in [[London]] (England) and at least two in other countries. The NFL has contracts with two London venues, namely Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The nominal home teams for the 2025 games have been announced (the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley, the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets at Spurs, the Indianapolis Colts in Berlin, the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin). The date for the Dublin game has been announced; other dates are expected to be announced in spring 2025.<!--Following standard US usage, the second team listed is the designated "home" team.--> ======NFL games in Mexico====== The NFL first held a regular season game in Mexico in 2005. Despite good attendance, the league did not return until the 2016 season, the first of what was meant to be a three-year deal to hold one game each season in that country. With both the 2016 and 2017 games selling out, the deal was extended through the 2021 season with an eye to possibly play more than one game per season in future years. All Mexico games thus far have been held in Estadio Azteca in [[Mexico City]]. The most recent Mexico game was in 2022. With Estadio Azteca being renovated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there will be no Mexico games until at least the 2026 season. ======NFL games in Germany====== In February 2022, the NFL announced a four-year agreement to expand the NFL International Series in Germany. The games were originally to be split between the Allianz Arena in Munich and Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt. The first game was held in the 2022 season. With the Mexico game being put on hold due to stadium renovations, there were two Germany games in 2023, both in Frankfurt. The 2024 game was held in Munich with the Carolina Panthers "hosting" and defeating the New York Giants. Berlin is joining the list of Germany hosts, with Olympiastadion set to host its first game at a so-far-undetermined date in 2025. ======NFL games in Brazil====== The NFL announced in November 2023 it would extend its International Series to Brazil. The first game in that country was held on September 6, 2024, with the Philadelphia Eagles "hosting" and defeating the Green Bay Packers at Arena Corinthians in [[São Paulo]]. Another Brazil game will be held on September 5, 2025, again at Arena Corinthians, with the Los Angeles Chargers as "host". ======NFL games in Spain====== Shortly after announcing the expansion to Brazil, the NFL extended the series to Spain. The first game in Spain will be held in 2025 at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in [[Madrid]] with the Miami Dolphins as "host". ======NFL games in Ireland====== The NFL has also extended the series to Ireland, with the first game being "hosted" by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 at Croke Park in [[Dublin]]. ======NFL games in Australia====== In 2026, the NFL expands its "International Series" to Australia, with the first game of the regular season being played at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground with the Los Angeles Rams "hosting". ==== US college football ==== * '''College Football Playoff National Championship''' ** 2026: Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], [[Florida]] (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 19 ** 2027: Allegiant Stadium in [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|Paradise]], [[Nevada]] (home of the Las Vegas Raiders); January 25 ** 2028: Caesars Superdome in [[New Orleans]], [[Louisiana]] (home of the New Orleans Saints); January 24 ** 2029: Raymond James Stadium in [[Tampa]], [[Florida]] (home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers); January 22 ** 2030: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 21 Each of these games is the championship for the previous calendar year. The bulk of the American football season takes place in the northern hemisphere fall/autumn. ====European League of Football==== * '''ELF Championship Game''' – 2025 edition at Neckarstadion (aka MHPArena) in [[Stuttgart]], Germany at a date in September to be determined ====German Football League==== * [http://www.germanbowl.de/ German Bowl] – 2025 host TBA ===Australian rules football=== {{main|Australian rules football}} ====Australian Football League==== * '''2025 AFL Grand Final''' at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground – 27 September ===Badminton=== Badminton is generally most popular in Asia, and Asian countries generally dominate the international tournaments; Denmark is the only non-Asian country to be considered a badminton powerhouse. Although badminton is popularly regarded as a backyard sport in the United States and often played outdoors recreationally, professional badminton is almost always played indoors. The '''[https://bwfworldtour.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour]''' is the premier professional tournament circuit, and is divided into six tiers. The top tier is occupied by a single tournament: the season-concluding '''[https://bwfworldtourfinals.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour Finals]''' in December every year. This is planned to be held in [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] until at least 2026. All BWF World Tour tournaments feature both men's and women's tournaments, as well as a mixed doubles tournament. The next tier is the BWF World Tour Super 1000, comprising the four most important tournaments on the circuit apart from the Finals, offering the largest number of ranking points and amount of prize money. As of 2024, they are as follows: *'''Malaysia Open''' — held in January every year at the Putra Indoor Stadium in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. *'''[https://www.allenglandbadminton.com All England Open]''' — the oldest international badminton tournament in the world, and the most prestigious tournament on the circuit. Held in March every year at the Arena Birmingham in [[Birmingham]]. *'''China Open''' — held in September every year. Since 2018, has been held at the Xincheng Gymnasium in [[Changzhou]]. *'''Indonesia Open''' — held in November every year at the Istora Gelora Bung Karno in [[Jakarta]]. Below that is the BWF World Tour 750, which offer less ranking points and prize money, but generally still attract most of the top players. *'''China Masters''' — held in November at the Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium in [[Shenzhen]]. *'''[https://denmarkopen.dk/ Denmark Open]''' — held in October at the Arena Fyn in [[Odense]]. *'''[https://www.yonexifb.com/uk/home French Open]''' — usually held in October, but the 2024 event was held in March at the Adidas Arena in [[Paris]] as a trial event for the Olympics. *'''[https://daihatsu-japan-open.com/ Japan Open]''' — held in August at the Yokohama Arena in [[Yokohama]]. *'''India Open''' — held in January at the K. D. Jadhav Indoor Hall in [[Delhi]]. *'''Singapore Open''' — held in late May or early June at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]]. The '''[https://bwfworldchampionships.bwfbadminton.com World Championships]''' are held every year except in Olympic years. Badminton has been an Olympic sport since 1992, with the Olympics generally being considered the premier tournament in the sport. There is also the '''Thomas Cup''' for men's national teams, and the '''Uber Cup''' for women's national teams, which mostly operate as multi-level leagues. ===Baseball=== {{seealso|Baseball|Baseball in the United States}} * World Baseball Classic * '''[https://www.seriedelcaribe.net/ Caribbean Series]''' (''Serie del Caribe'') is a championship tournament held in February each year. Champion teams from professional baseball leagues of various Caribbean and Latin American countries compete for the championship. * '''Little League World Series''' – Held over 10 days, ending on the last Sunday of August, in [[Williamsport|South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA]]. ===Basketball=== ====NBA==== {{seealso|Basketball in North America}} ====US college basketball==== The biggest event in US college (university) basketball is the NCAA Division I men's tournament, featuring 68 teams. The Division I women's tournament draws considerably less interest, but is still the biggest event in American women's college sports. The men's tournament begins on the Tuesday preceding the third Thursday in March (in terms of dates, no earlier than March 13 and no later than March 19) in [[Dayton|Dayton, Ohio]] with an eight-team round marketed as the First Four, featuring two games on Tuesday and two on Wednesday. The winners of these four games join the remaining 60 tournament teams for the first round, which starts on the third Thursday in March. The women's tournament expanded from 64 teams to 68 starting in 2022, with its own First Four; it starts the day after the men's tournament. The four-team final rounds of these tournaments are known as the Final Four. Future Final Four sites are: ;Men * 2026 – April 4 and 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in [[Indianapolis]] * 2027 – April 3 and 5 at Ford Field in [[Detroit]] * 2028 – April 1 and 3 at Allegiant Stadium just [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|west]] of the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Las Vegas Strip]] * 2029 – March 31 and April 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis * 2030 – April 6 and 8 at AT&T Stadium in [[Arlington (Texas)|Arlington, Texas]], between [[Dallas]] and [[Fort Worth]] ;Women * 2026 – April 3 and 5 at PHX Arena in [[Phoenix]] * 2027 – April 2 and 4 at Nationwide Arena in [[Columbus|Columbus, Ohio]] * 2028 – March 31 and April 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis * 2029 – March 30 and April 1 at the Alamodome in San Antonio * 2030 – April 5 and 7 at Moda Center in [[Portland (Oregon)|Portland, Oregon]] * 2031 – April 4 and 6 at American Airlines Center in Dallas ====EuroLeague==== The EuroLeague is basketball's equivalent to the UEFA Champions League in association football (soccer), featuring top club teams from throughout Europe (note that in sports, "Europe" includes several countries either partly or totally in Asia, most notably Russia, Turkey, and Israel). The season starts in October and ends with the '''EuroLeague Final Four''' in May. * 2026 – May 22 and 24 in either Athens or Belgrade (site TBA) ===Canadian football=== {{seealso|American football#Canadian Football League}} * '''112th Grey Cup''' at Princess Auto Stadium in [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]] (home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers); November 16, 2025 * '''113th Grey Cup''' at McMahon Stadium in [[Calgary/Northwest|northwest]] [[Calgary]], [[Alberta]] (home of the Calgary Stampeders); November 15, 2026 ===Cricket=== {{main|Cricket}} * '''[https://www.lords.org/lords/our-history/the-ashes The Ashes]''' — November 2025–January 2026 at the following venues in [[Australia]]: ** [[Perth]] Stadium, in the [[Perth/The Suburbs|northern suburb]] of Burswood — 21–25 November 2025 ** The Gabba, in the [[Brisbane]] suburb of Wooloongabba — 4–8 December 2025 ** [[Adelaide]] Oval, in the [[Adelaide/City and North Adelaide|parklands]] between the central business district and North Adelaide — 17–21 December 2025 ** [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground, in Yarra Park in the city's [[Melbourne/Inner east|inner east]] — 26–30 December 2025. The traditional Boxing Day Test at the MCG is one of the sport's most iconic events. ** [[Sydney]] Cricket Ground, in Moore Park in the [[Sydney/City East|inner eastern suburbs]] — 4—8 January 2026 * '''Cricket World Cup''' — October—November 2027, co-hosted by [[South Africa]], [[Zimbabwe]] and [[Namibia]]. ===Cycling=== Road bicycle racing is broadly divided into two race types: * '''Single-day races''' — Exactly as the name implies, these races are held on a single day at around the same time each year. Some have fixed courses; more have fixed starting and end points with courses varying slightly from year to year. The most prestigious races of this type are often called "classics", but the term is poorly defined. * '''Stage races''' — Held over more than one day, with one race each day known as a "stage" (though some races, notably the Grand Tours, will include one or two rest days). While there is an award ceremony at the end of each stage, the overall winner is determined by "general classification"—the cumulative time for the entire race. The most famous road racing events for bicycles in the world are the three stage races known as Grand Tours. They are raced in Italy, France, and Spain but commonly also include legs in other countries. These tours, each featuring 21 stages, involve only men's races, and are even more prestigious than the road cycling events at the Olympics. * '''[https://www.giroditalia.it Giro d'Italia]''' — around Italy, usually takes place in May. * '''[https://www.letour.fr/en/ Tour de France]''' — around France, usually takes place in July. The most prestigious of the three. * '''[https://www.lavuelta.es/en Vuelta a España]''' — around Spain, usually takes place in August. While countless single-day races are run, both throughout Europe and worldwide, the most famous are the five races known as "Monuments", all of which were first held between 1890 and 1915. * '''[[Milan]]–[[Sanremo|San Remo]]''' (Italian: ''Milano–Sanremo'') – The first major classic of the year, usually on the third Saturday of March on a course between the two named locations. It's considered "the sprinters' classic" because its mostly flat course favors that type of rider. * '''Tour of [[Flanders]]''' (Dutch: ''Ronde van Vlaanderen'') – Held in early April through [[Belgium]]'s Flanders region between [[Antwerp]] and [[Oudenaarde]]. The first of the "cobbled classics", with many key sections (including several short but very steep hills) paved in cobblestones. * '''[[Paris]]–[[Roubaix]]''' – Probably ''the'' most famous single-day race, it's known as the "Queen of the Classics" and ''l'Enfer du Nord'' ("The Hell of the North [of France]"). Held one week after the Tour of Flanders, it features even longer stretches of cobblestone roads, making it arguably the hardest single-day race on riders. * '''[[Liège]]–[[Bastogne]]–Liège''' – Held in late April in Belgium, this race is nearly as hard on riders as Paris–Roubaix, but for different reasons, namely a long course with numerous short but steep hills in the [[Ardennes]] region, as well as an uphill finish in Liège. * '''Giro di [[Lombardy|Lombardia]]''' (officially ''Il Lombardia'') – The year's final Monument, held in October over a course that varies from year to year, with only a few fixed locations, most famously the arduous climb to the Madonna del Ghisallo church in Magreglio near Lake Como. The race ends in either [[Bergamo]] or [[Como]]. Known as "the climbers' classic" from its many significant climbs. Cycling is also featured at the Summer Olympics in 4 disciplines; track cycling, road cycling, mountain biking and BMX. With the exception of the men's road cycling discipline, these are generally considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of cycling. <!-- ===Gaelic football=== --> ===Golf=== {{main|Golf}} The most important professional golf tournaments in the world are knowns as the '''majors''', offering the largest amounts of prize money and world ranking points. The men's and women's professional circuits are run separately, with a separate set of majors for each sex. The most important men's professional circuit is the U.S.-based PGA Tour, while the corresponding professional circuit for women is the LPGA Tour, also based in the U.S. The PGA and LPGA also sanction some tournaments outside the U.S., and some tournaments are co-sanctioned by multiple professional circuits. For instance, all the men's majors are co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour, the European Tour and the Japan Golf Tour. Golf was an Olympic sport 1900–1904, and has been one since 2016. The Olympic golf tournament is less prestigious than the majors and offers no prize money, and many of the top male golfers choose to skip it, but the top female golfers usually participate. ====Men's==== ;Major championships Three of the four men's major championships are held in the U.S. The only exception is The Open Championship, also known as the "British Open". Each tournament is played from Thursday through Sunday, barring weather-related delays, and has a fixed weekend on the calendar. Tickets for practice sessions during the days before the tournament starts are also sold. A golfer who wins all four majors in the same calendar year is said to have completed the '''Grand Slam''', which has yet to be achieved (Tiger Woods won all four consecutively, but spanning two calendar years starting from the 2000 U.S. Open to the 2001 Masters Tournament; at the time, the PGA Championship was the year's final major, instead of the second). * '''Masters Tournament''' (always held at Augusta National Golf Club in [[Augusta (Georgia)|Augusta]], [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]) – ends on the second Sunday in April. The next edition is set for 9–12 April 2026. * '''PGA Championship''' – ends on the third Sunday of May; next edition to be held 14–17 May 2026 at Aronimink Golf Club in the [[Philadelphia]] suburb of Newtown Square, [[Pennsylvania]]. ** Sites have been set through 2034, with the exception of 2033. * '''U.S. Open''' – ends on the third Sunday in June; next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in [[Southampton (New York)|Southampton]], New York (near the eastern end of [[Long Island]], about 85 miles/140 km from Midtown Manhattan). ** Sites have been set through 2042, as well as for most subsequent years through 2051. * '''The Open Championship''' – played during the week containing the third Friday in July; next edition to be held 17–20 July 2025 at Royal [[Portrush]] Golf Club in [[County Antrim]], [[Northern Ireland]] (about 60 mi/100 km from [[Belfast]] and 35 mi/60 km from [[Derry|Derry/Londonderry]]. The tournament returns to the historic Old Course at [[St Andrews]] every few years, and is of special significance when it does. ** The 2026 edition will be played at Royal Birkdale in [[Southport]] from 16–19 July. ** The 2027 edition will be held at the Old Course from 15–18 July. ;Other significant events * '''Ryder Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in odd-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2025 – 26–28 September at the Black Course of [[Bethpage]] State Park on [[Long Island]] (about 35 miles/56 km east of Midtown Manhattan) ** 2027 – 17-19 September at [[Adare]] Manor in [[County Limerick]], [[Ireland]] ** 2029 – Dates TBA in September at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota (a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]) *'''Presidents Cup''' (competition between a USA team and an "International" team of non-Europeans) – Held in even-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and a non-European country ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Medinah Country Club in [[Medinah]], [[Illinois]] (a northwest suburb of [[Chicago]]). ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia (a [[Melbourne/South-Eastern suburbs|southeastern suburb]] of [[Melbourne]]). ** 2030 – Dates TBA at Bellerive Country Club in Town and Country, [[Missouri]] (in the West County region of [[St. Louis County]], which borders on the city of [[St. Louis]]). ====Women's==== ;Major championships Three of the five women's major championships are held in the U.S. As with the men's major championships, all are held from Thursday through Sunday (barring weather delays). * '''Chevron Championship''' (held at The Club at Carlton Woods in [[The Woodlands]], Texas, about 30 mi/50 km north of [[Houston]]) – The next edition is expected to be 23–26 April 2026. * '''U.S. Women's Open''' – Next edition to be held 4–7 June 2026 at Riviera Country Club in the [[Los Angeles]] neighborhood of [[Pacific Palisades]]. ** Future sites have been set through 2036, and for several subsequent years through 2048. * '''Women's PGA Championship''' – Next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]. * '''The Evian Championship''' (always held at the Evian Resort Golf Club in [[Evian|Évian-les-Bains]], [[France]]) – Typically held in July, though the dates haven't been consistent from year to year. The next edition will be from 10–13 July 2025. * '''Women's Open Championship''' (aka "Women's British Open") – From 2025, three weeks after the Evian Championship, allowing the tour to go on a European swing. The 2025 edition will be at Royal [[Porthcawl]] Golf Club in Wales from 31 July–3 August. ;Other significant events * '''Solheim Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in even-numbered years (from 2024) in August or September; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, [[Netherlands]] (just south of [['s-Hertogenbosch|Den Bosch]]) ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Valhalla Golf Club in [[Louisville|Louisville, Kentucky]] (slightly less than 20 mi/32 km east of downtown) * '''International Crown''' (team competition involving seven national teams, plus a "World" team made up of players not from one of the preceding seven countries) – From 2023, held in odd-numbered years in October ** 2025 – 23–26 October at New Korea Country Club in [[Goyang]], [[South Korea]] ===Handball=== {{see also|Handball in Europe}} Olympic or team Handball is a fast paced team sport that is mostly played indoors and enjoys considerable popularity in most of continental Europe. The world cup as well as the European championship are major events, second only to soccer. The best national leagues (found in Germany, France and the Nordic countries) battle out a club champion every year. There is also the [http://www.ehfcl.com EHF Champions League] which battles out Europe's top club team every year. === Ice hockey === {{seealso|Ice hockey in North America|Ice hockey in Europe}} ==== Men's ==== ;IIHF Men's World Championship * 2026: 15–31 May, [[Zurich|Zürich]] and [[Fribourg]], [[Switzerland]] * 2027: 14–30 May, [[Düsseldorf]] and [[Mannheim]], [[Germany]] * 2028: 12–28 May, [[Paris]] and [[Lyon]], [[France]] ==== Women's ==== ;IIHF Women's World Championship Since 2022, the top level of the Women's World Championships has been held annually, even in Winter Olympic years. From 1997–2021, the top level was an annual affair, but Winter Olympic years were skipped. * 2026: Host, dates, and sites TBA ===Motor racing=== {{seealso|Motor sport}} ====[[Formula One]]==== See the dedicated article. ====NASCAR==== A U.S. stock car racing organization, and the country's most popular form of motorsport. The term "stock car" is a historic reference; when NASCAR first organized races in the years immediately after World War II, the cars were in fact "stock"—exactly as purchased from dealers, with minimal safety-related changes. Over time, the cars changed to the point that they are only vaguely similar in external appearance to current street vehicles, with much more powerful engines and far more safety equipment. NASCAR now operates three national touring series: * Cup Series, the top series * Xfinity Series, the second level * Craftsman Truck Series, the third level, which races pickup trucks instead of cars; usually called simply the "Truck Series" Most races are held on oval tracks. For many years, no more than one or two Cup Series races were held on road courses, but since 2021 that number has gone up to six. Five Xfinity Series races and three Truck Series are also held on road courses. Before COVID-19, the Truck Series held one race in Canada, but border restrictions led to that date being transferred south of the border, and NASCAR has yet to return any of its U.S. national series to Canada (although it runs a separate Canadian series). The sport used to be centered in the Southeastern U.S., but beginning in the 1990s it expanded to become a national spectacle. A typical NASCAR event spans a long weekend, with two or even all three series holding races at one site. Unlike most sports, NASCAR's biggest event is the ''first'' race of the season: * '''Daytona 500''', held on the day before the Presidents Day holiday (which falls on the third Monday of February) at Daytona International Speedway in [[Daytona Beach]], [[Florida]] ====IndyCar==== A U.S.-based open-wheel racing series. It was established in its current form in 2008, when the IndyCar Series (launched in 1996) merged with the former Champcars series. The merger is a story in itself—as late as the early 1990s, open-wheel racing, governed by a body known as CART (which later became Champcars), was the most popular form of motorsport in the U.S. However, in 1994, the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the series' marquee event, the Indianapolis 500, had a bitter falling-out with CART, leading to the creation of the competing IndyCar series (which took the Indy 500 with it). The feud led many former open-wheel fans to abandon the sport, often for NASCAR. By the time the feud ended, attendance and sponsorship money for the sport were a fraction of what they had been only 15 years earlier, and only in the late 2010s had it begun to recover some of its original prominence. All of the series' races are held in the U.S. except for one on a street course in [[Toronto]]. The tracks are a mixture of ovals, road courses, and street circuits. The series' marquee event, as mentioned above, is: * '''Indianapolis 500''', held the day before the U.S. holiday of Memorial Day (which falls on the last Monday of May) at the [[Indianapolis]] Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana (a community completely surrounded by the city of Indianapolis) ==== Motorcycle speedway ==== Motorcycle speedway is a sport where lightweight motorcycles race each other on an oval-shaped track. It is most popular in [[Poland]] but also has a major presence in [[Australia]], [[Britain]], and [[Sweden]]. ===== Important events ===== *'''Speedway Grand Prix''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's late spring, summer, and early fall. *'''Speedway of Nations''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's summer (usually June or July). ===Rugby=== {{main|Rugby football}} ====Rugby union==== * 2025 '''Rugby Championship''', various locations in [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], and [[South Africa]]. Normally held August–October, with an abbreviated and time-shifted version held in years of the men's Rugby World Cup. * 2025: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to Australia, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in England, 22 August–27 September *** Note that World Rugby, the governing body for union, uses the "Rugby World Cup" name for both its men's and women's championship events. * 2026 '''Six Nations Championship''', February–March: ** [[Cardiff]], Principality Stadium (Millennium Stadium) ** [[Dublin]], Aviva Stadium ** [[Edinburgh]], Scottish Gas Murrayfield ** [[London]], Twickenham Stadium ** [[Rome]], Stadio Olimpico ** [[Saint-Denis (Île-de-France)|Saint-Denis]] ([[Paris]]), Stade de France * 2027 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2029: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to New Zealand, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2031 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in the United States, dates TBA * 2033: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to South Africa, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in the United States, dates TBA ====Rugby sevens==== * '''World Rugby Sevens Series''' and '''World Rugby Women's Sevens Series''': A series of 8 tournaments for national men's and women's sevens teams held at various locations around the world. In the current format, all events see both sexes compete on the same weekend. Marketed as the '''HSBC SVNS''' (with HSBC being the main corporate sponsor). World Rugby has scrapped the former Rugby World Cup Sevens, making the annual SVNS series its effective successor. ** '''[[Dubai]] Sevens''' – The traditional season opener, held on the weekend including the first Saturday in December at a stadium known as The Sevens. ** '''South Africa Sevens''' – Held on the weekend after the Dubai Sevens at [[Cape Town]] Stadium. ** '''Australian Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of January at [[Perth]] Rectangular Stadium (commercially HBF Park). ** '''Canada Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of February at BC Place in [[Vancouver/Yaletown-False Creek|downtown]] [[Vancouver]]. ** '''USA Sevens''' – Held the weekend after the Canada Sevens at Dignity Health Sports Park in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Carson|Carson, California]]. ** '''[[Hong Kong]] Sevens''' – The most famous men's event. Held in early April at Hong Kong Stadium in So Kon Po, in the [[Hong Kong/Eastern District|east]] of Hong Kong Island. ** '''[[Singapore]] Sevens''' – Held in early May at the National Stadium in Kallang, a district just to the [[Singapore/East Coast|northeast]] of the Downtown Core. ** '''[[Madrid]] Sevens''' – The final event, held at Estadio Metropolitano in the city's [[Madrid/Northern Suburbs|northern]] San Blas district. ====Rugby league==== =====National Rugby League===== *'''NRL Grand Final''' – The first or second Saturday of October at the Sydney Cricket Ground, just [[Sydney/Eastern Suburbs|east of the city centre]]. *'''State of Origin''' series – three matches in all in May–July. One match is normally held in the capital city of each state represented: Stadium Australia (aka Accor Stadium) in the [[Sydney/Sydney Olympic Park|Sydney Olympic Park]], and Lang Park (aka Suncorp Stadium) in [[Brisbane]]. The third game rotates between several cities outside New South Wales and Queensland: [[Adelaide]] (Adelaide Oval), [[Melbourne]] (Melbourne Cricket Ground), and [[Perth]] (Perth Stadium, aka Optus Stadium). =====Super League===== *'''Super League Grand Final''' – =====International===== *'''2026 Rugby League World Cup''' - [[France]] ===Soccer=== {{seealso|Association football|Association football in Europe}} ====Men's==== * '''2025''' FIFA U-17 World Cup, 3–27 November in [[Qatar]]. This becomes an annual event starting in 2025, with Qatar confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2025''' FIFA U-20 World Cup, 27 September–19 October in several cities in [[Chile]] (final most likely in [[Santiago]]) * '''2026''' FIFA World Cup in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], and [[Mexico]]; 11 June–19 July (final in [[East Rutherford]], New Jersey, near New York City) ====Women's==== * '''2025''' [https://www.fifa.com/u17womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, 17 October–8 November in [[Morocco]]. Starting in 2025, this becomes an annual event, with Morocco confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2026''' [https://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup],{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} 5–27 September in [[Poland]] * '''2027''' FIFA Women's World Cup in [[Brazil]], 24 June–25 July ===Table tennis=== [[China]] has been the world's dominant force in table tennis since at least the 1980s, so it comes as no surprise that the '''China Table Tennis Super League''' (CTTSL) is one of the best tournaments in the world, featuring not only the best players from all over China, but several top international players as well. The main international professional circuit is known as '''[https://worldtabletennis.com/ World Table Tennis]''' (WTT), of which the top level is known as the '''WTT Series'''. The most important WTT Series tournaments, offering the most world ranking points and prize money, are known as the '''Grand Smashes''', of which there are three, as of 2024: *'''[https://www.singaporesmash.com Singapore Smash]''' — held in March at the Singapore Sports Hub in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]] *'''[https://www.saudismash.com Saudi Smash]''' — held in May at King Abdullah Sports City in [[Jeddah]] *'''China Smash''' — held in late September and early October at Shougang Park in [[Beijing]] The season-concluding tournament of the WTT Series is the '''WTT Finals''', featuring the top 16 singles players and top 8 doubles pairs of each sex. The 2024 WTT Finals will be held from 20-24 November at the [[Kitakyushu]] General Gymnasium. Table tennis is also contested at the Summer Olympics, which is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport. The table tennis event at the Olympics consists of men's and women's singles, men's and women's teams, and a mixed doubles event. There is also the annual '''World Table Tennis Championships''', which is contested between individuals and doubles pairs in odd years, and between national teams in even years. ===Tennis=== ''See also [[Tennis]].'' Tennis has events throughout the calendar year. The top-level men's tour is the ATP Tour, with the WTA Tour as the women's counterpart. The men's and women's tours come together for the four '''Grand Slam''' events and a few other select tournaments throughout the year. The only players to have ever completed the Grand Slam are Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 & 1969) in the men's event, and Maureen Connolly (1953), Margaret Court (1970) and Steffi Graf (1988) in the women's event. In addition to these, the '''[https://www.daviscup.com/ Davis Cup]''' for men and '''[https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/ Billie Jean King Cup]''' (known as the Fed Cup until 2020) for women are the top events for national teams; these operate as multi-level leagues. The top levels (now known as the "Finals" in both events) were traditionally conducted as knockout tournaments, but now use a format similar to that of the FIFA World Cup, with all qualifying nations meeting at a single site for a group stage followed by a knockout stage. A player who wins all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year is said to have completed a '''golden slam''', and the only able-bodied player to have done so to date was Germany's Steffi Graf in 1988. (The doubles partnership of American identical twins Bob and Mike Bryan, aka the Bryan Brothers, won all of the required events consecutively, but their streak started with the 2012 Olympics, thus spanning two calendar years. Two wheelchair tennis players have completed the calendar-year golden slam, with their version replacing the able-bodied Olympics with the Paralympic Games.) At the professional level, tennis court surfaces can be divided into three types: grass, clay and hard. Each of these surfaces has a different bounce profile for the ball, thus favouring different playing styles. While all professional tennis players are competent on all three surfaces, some players are known to excel on particular surfaces; for instance, Rafael Nadal was known for his excellence on clay courts during his prime, while Roger Federer was well-known for his prowess on grass courts. Most ATP and WTA events feature both singles and doubles tournaments, with Grand Slams and the Olympics also featuring a mixed doubles tournament. ====Grand Slam events==== All four of these events are held over two weeks (15 days of play at all events except Wimbledon, still at 14). They are considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of tennis, and are even more prestigious than the Olympics. * '''[https://ausopen.com/ Australian Open]''': Ends on the last Sunday in January at [[Melbourne]] Park just outside the city centre. Frequently suffers from hot and humid weather in the southern summer, although this has been alleviated by retractable roofs on the three main courts. The final is held in the Rod Laver Arena, which is named after Rod Laver, the only player to have completed a grand slam twice, and the last man to achieve the feat when he did so in 1969. Has been played on hard courts since 1988. * '''[https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/ French Open]''' (also known as ''Roland Garros''): Held in late May and early June at ''Stade Roland Garros'' in the Bois de Boulogne in the [[Paris/16th arrondissement|16th arondissement]] of [[Paris]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event still held on clay courts. * '''[https://www.wimbledon.com/ Wimbledon]''': Begins on the first Monday in July and ends on the second Sunday following at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in the [[London/Wimbledon|Wimbledon]] neighbourhood of southwest [[London]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event held on grass courts, requiring all players to dress only in white (though women are now allowed to wear colored underwear to better hide menstruation), and many other traditions. The oldest and most prestigious of the Grand Slams. * '''[https://www.usopen.org/ US Open]''': Begins in August, on the Sunday that precedes the weekend of the US holiday of Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September. Ends on the Sunday following Labor Day. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in the northern part of the [[New York City]] borough of [[Queens]]. Has been played on hard courts since 1978. ====Season-ending championships==== Both the ATP and WTA have season-ending events for the very top players, with eight players qualifying for the finals in singles and eight teams in doubles. The competitors are divided into two groups of four, each playing a round-robin within the group. The top two finishers in each group advance to the semifinals, with the winners of each semifinal contesting the final. * '''[https://www.nittoatpfinals.com/en ATP Finals]''': Mid-November at Pala Alpitour (aka Palasport Olimpico) in [[Turin]], Italy. * '''[https://www.wtatennis.com/wta-finals WTA Finals]''': Late October–early November in [[Riyadh]], Saudi Arabia. In the mid-2010s, the WTA Tour launched the '''WTA Elite Trophy''', a second season-ending event for players immediately below those who qualify for the WTA Finals. It was suspended because Covid-19 from 2020 to 2020.. ====Other top-tier events==== Both the ATP and WTA have a multi-level hierarchy of events, with the Grand Slams at the top, followed by the season-ending championships and then the events shown here (with other levels below these in both cases). The two tours have differing terminology for this level: * ATP: Nine events known as the "ATP Tour Masters 1000". All top players are required to enter these events (barring injury or other misfortune), with the exception of the Monte-Carlo Masters. * WTA: The "WTA 1000" was established in 2021 by the merger of the former "Premier Mandatory" and "Premier 5" events. Since 2024, there have been ten WTA 1000 tournaments, all of which are mandatory. * Olympics: The tennis event at the Olympics is less prestigious than the Grand Slams, and many top players choose to skip it, while those who compete often do not take it seriously and lose to little-known lower-ranked opponents. Moreover, the Olympics typically falls in the middle of the U.S. hard court season, meaning that players miss important tournaments and lose valuable ranking points in their quest to qualify for the season-ending championships should they choose to participate. That said, there is a special prestige attached to winning all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in a single calendar year, known as a golden slam. Unlike in the professional circuits, doubles pairs at the Olympics must be from the same country. With that in mind, here are the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events: * '''[[Qatar]] Ladies Open''': Mid-February at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in [[Doha]]. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Dubai]] Tennis Championships''': Late February at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour also plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''Indian Wells Masters''' (men) and '''Indian Wells Open''' (women): Early March in [[Indian Wells]], California (near Palm Springs). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Miami Open''': Late March–early April at Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], Florida (north of the city of Miami). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Monte-Carlo Masters''': Mid-April at Monte Carlo Country Club in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, next to Monaco. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Madrid]] Open''': Mid-May at Caja Mágica in Madrid. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Italian Open''': Week following the Madrid Open at Foro Italico in Rome. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Canadian Open''': Early August at Stade IGA in Montreal and Sobeys Stadium (formerly Aviva Centre) in Toronto. In odd-numbered years, the men play in Montreal and the women in Toronto, and vice versa in even-numbered years. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Cincinnati Masters''' (men) and '''Cincinnati Open''' (women): Week after the Canadian Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in [[Mason (Ohio)|Mason, Ohio]], northeast of [[Cincinnati]]. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Wuhan]] Open''': Last week of September at Optics Valley International Tennis Center. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''China Open''': Start of October, immediately following the Wuhan Open, at the National Tennis Center in [[Beijing]]. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''[[Shanghai]] Masters''': Week after the China Open at Qi Zhong Stadium in the southwest of the city. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Paris]] Masters''': Late October–early November at AccorHotels Arena in the [[Paris/12th arrondissement|12th arrondissement]]. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' The Grand Slams, tour finals and ATP Masters 1000/WTA 1000 tournaments are collectively known as the '''Big Titles'''. Serbia's Novak Djokovic is the only singles player of either sex to have won all the Big Titles in the course of his career, and was said to have "completed the game of tennis" by adding the Olympic gold medal to those in 2024. Three other men's players, all retired, have won all of the Big Titles in doubles—Canadian Daniel Nestor as an individual, and the aforementioned Bryan Brothers as a team. All also have Olympic gold medals in doubles. Djokovic and the Bryans have also been on national teams that won the Davis Cup. ==Stay safe== Take precautions typical for [[Stay safe#Mass gatherings|large crowds]] and major events, with risk factors such as [[pickpocketing]], [[infectious diseases]], drunk brawls and stampedes. '''Hooliganism''' is organized violence associated with sport fandom, in particular prevalent in [[association football in Europe|men's football in Europe]]. The risk of hooliganism differs between countries and teams, and might be difficult to assess from a neutral source. {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Sports}} cigmniqfi9gih7rfuty5rqsol76iipv 5090944 5090943 2025-07-10T16:26:26Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Central American Games */ 5090944 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|MalmöFF Fans banner.jpg|caption=Fans of Malmö FF, a Swedish football team}} '''Spectator sports''' are those where the players are greatly outnumbered by their audience, often a thousandfold and sometimes a millionfold for the biggest events. These usually involve travel, often long-distance, so there is a distinct experience of sports travel for those crowds, covered on this page. See [[Sports]] for those you participate in yourself, watched (if at all) by a few family members or ex-players. See [[Activities]] for the broader sphere of mostly non-competitive pastimes such as bird-watching. == Understand == [[File:Olympic Torch 2010.jpg | thumb | 300px | Lighting the Olympic flame from the sun]] Spectator sports have a long history: in the western tradition this is exemplified by the ancient Olympic Games. But mass travelling audiences only emerged in the 19th century, with the development of leisure time, disposable income, and public transport. Indeed the Olympics are a 19th-century reinvention, with the ancient event lapsing around 400 AD and the modern version launching in Athens in 1896. In the 19th and 20th centuries, three tribes emerged: an elite of professional players, an audience watching them direct or on TV or internet, and the "grassroots" playing at amateur or junior level. Of course there is overlap, but the stark feature today is how different those worlds have become; certainly their travel experiences could not be more different. The divergence caused great soul-searching in sports associations, and sometimes acrimonious splits. It's no spoiler to say that big money and big business won, and spectator sports are designed to extract their followers' cash not only by gate receipts, but by advertising and sponsorship, by merchandising, by broadcasting rights, and by gambling. Spectator sports are also a matter of national prestige and policy: countries market themselves as sports destination, and by "sports-washing" deflect attention from their unattractive regimes. The live audience for big events is nowadays greatly outnumbered by TV and internet viewers, and developments in virtual reality promise to take this further. But for the time being, the crowd is essential to the event. They descend in partisan masses upon the host city, throng the pubs and transport hubs, and book up accommodation. Their chants and slogans, team regalia, cheers and boos, all create an intense atmosphere. Alcohol-fuelled violence has too often been a by-product. Early spectators simply milled around the playing area, craning to see the action. It's still like that in golf, where crowds follow their favourite player from hole to hole, and in on-road races for cycling and motor sports where the biggest audience is close to the finish line but people find vantage points all along the way. Larger crowds made this unmanageable for most sports, so embankments then stadiums were built: modern examples are huge and architecturally exciting. Stadiums may be multi-purpose or dedicated to one sport, and a big division is between those for ball games, and those incorporating a running track, which makes them suitable for Olympics but distances the crowd. They may be "borrowed" for events, for instance international rugby matches may use a soccer stadium simply for extra capacity. The upkeep of a stadium (even a small one) is usually part-financed by a sponsorship deal, so they change their names for the length of the deal, sometimes just for a specific event. Signage on streets and public transport can't keep up with this so be sure to check not only which stadium you're going to, but any other names it's locally known by. Every big city has a sports or other mass event at least once a week, so they are well-practised in signage, stewarding and crowd safety, extra and diverted transport, and policing. See individual city pages for accommodation, and other things to see and do there. See [[Events]] for the very largest, which embroil entire countries for days on end. These draw a travelling army of fans following their teams from city to city as the tournament progresses, so even if you don't plan to attend, you have to factor the event into your travel plans. ==Articles about watching sports== <div style="{{column-width|25em}}"> * [[Spectator sports in Japan]] * [[American football]] * [[Association football]] ** [[Association football in Europe]] * [[Australian rules football]] * [[Baseball]] ** [[Baseball in the United States]] * [[Basketball in North America]] * [[Boxing]] * [[Bullfighting]] * [[Cricket]] * [[Field hockey]] * [[Formula One]] * [[Golf]] * [[Handball in Europe]] * [[Horse racing]] * [[Ice hockey in Europe]] * [[Ice hockey in North America]] * [[Martial arts]] * [[Motorcycle speedway]] * [[Olympic Games]] * [[Rugby football]] * [[Tennis]] </div> ==Events with multiple sports== ===African Games === The African Games are held among the countries of Africa. * '''2027''': [[Cairo]], Egypt, 20 January–7 February. * '''2031''': [[Kinshasa]], DR Congo (dates TBA). ===Asian Games=== The [http://www.ocasia.org Asian Games]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} among the countries of Asia; the second largest multi-sports games after the Summer Olympics. Features some sports that are popular in Asia but not contested at the Olympics such as wushu (Chinese martial arts), kabbadi, sepak takraw and dragon boat racing, as well as some globally-popular non-Olympic sports such as tenpin bowling and squash. The Asian Games also have added several popular esports as official medal events. The Winter Asian Games are operated by the same body but feature only winter sports. Normally held in the year before the Winter Olympics. * '''2026''': 19 September–4 October, [[Nagoya]], [[Japan]] * '''2030''': [[Doha]], [[Qatar]] * '''2034''': [[Riyadh]], [[Saudi Arabia]] <!-- ===Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games=== --> ===Bolivarian Games=== * '''2025''': November 23 to December 7 in [[Ayacucho]] and [[Lima]], [[Peru]] ===Central American Games === The Central American Games, only involving the seven nations of [[Central America]]. * '''2025''': 15–31 October, [[Guatemala City]], Guatemala ===Central America and Caribbean Games === The [https://inside.fei.org/fei/games/cont-reg-games/central-american-caribbean Central America and Caribbean Games] — the second oldest international multi-sport games. * '''2026''': Dates TBA, [[Santo Domingo]], [[Dominican Republic]] ===Commonwealth Games=== The [https://www.commonwealthsport.com Commonwealth Games] among the countries of the [[British Empire#Commonwealth countries|Commonwealth of Nations]]; the fourth-largest multi-sports games. Unlike other multi-sport events, para-sports events are held as part of the main games with the able-bodied sports events. Features some non-Olympic sports that are popular in the Commonwealth such as lawn bowls, squash and netball. [[England]], [[Scotland]], [[Wales]] and [[Northern Ireland]] send separate teams to the Commonwealth Games, in contrast to the Olympics where they send a unified [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]] team. The next games in 2026 had been scheduled for the Australian state of Victoria, but the state government pulled out in July 2023, citing financial concerns. [[Glasgow]], Scotland was announced as the new host in September 2024; the 2026 games will be considerably scaled down from past editions, with only 10 sports and no athletes' village. === Deaflympics=== The [https://www.deaflympics.com Deaflympics] is an IOC-sanctioned event for athletes with hearing impairments. Although the sports are largely the same as the Olympics, modifications are made to not rely on sounds such as starter's guns, spoken commands or referee whistles. Separate summer and winter games are held. * '''2025 Summer Deaflympics''': 15–26 November in [[Tokyo]], Japan ===European Games=== The [http://www.european-games.org/ European Games] among [[Europe]]an countries. The newest continental-level multi-sport event, with its first edition in 2015. Also in the year before the Summer Olympics. * '''2027''' in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]; dates TBA ===Gay Games=== The [https://www.gaygames.org Gay Games] attract mostly LGBT athletes, though are open to all. * '''2026''': [[Valencia]], [[Spain]] * '''2030''': Host to be announced in November 2025 ===Jeux de la Francophonie=== [https://www.jeux.francophonie.org Jeux de la Francophonie] among the countries of La Francophonie. The Canadian provinces of [[Quebec]] and [[New Brunswick]] send separate teams from the Canadian team, and the Belgian team is restricted to sending Francophone athletes. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. *'''2027''': Dates and host TBA ===National Games of China=== The National Games of China a multi-sport competition between [[China]]'s [[Chinese provinces and regions|provincial level units]], including [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], as well as teams representing the Chinese military and various Chinese industry groups. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. The standards of the diving and table tennis competitions in particular are regarded by most to be even higher than the Olympics. * '''2025''': [[Guangdong]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] <!-- ===Lusofonia Games=== The [http://www.acolop.org/ Lusofonia Games] among the world's Portuguese-speaking countries. Last held in 2014. ===Mediterranean Games=== --> === Maccabiah Games=== The [https://www.maccabiah.com/en/ Maccabiah Games] for Jewish athletes from 85 nations, and Israelis regardless of ethnicity or religion, are the third-largest multi-sports event by number of competitors after the Summer Olympics and Asian Games. Always held in Israel. * '''2025''': July, Israel ===Olympic Games=== {{main|Olympic Games}} * [[Milan–Cortina 2026|'''2026''': Winter Olympics]], 6 – 22 Feb, [[Milan]] and [[Cortina d'Ampezzo|Cortina]], [[Italy]] * [[Los Angeles 2028|'''2028''': Summer Olympics]], 21 Jul - 6 Aug, [[Los Angeles]], [[United States of America|USA]], with softball and canoe slalom to be held in [[Oklahoma City]] * [[French Alps 2030|'''2030''': Winter Olympics]], 1 - 17 Feb, multiple locations in the [[French Alps]], plus [[Nice]], [[France]] and [[Turin]], [[Italy]] * [[Brisbane 2032|'''2032''': Summer Olympics]], 23 Jul - 8 Aug, [[Brisbane]], [[Australia]] * [[Salt Lake City–Utah 2034|'''2034''': Winter Olympics]], 10 - 26 Feb, [[Salt Lake City]], [[United States of America|USA]], with other venues scattered around the state of [[Utah]] ===Pacific Games=== * The [http://websites.sportstg.com/assoc_page.cgi?c=2-2642-0-0-0&sID=24021 Pacific Games] among the countries of [[Oceania]] except Australia and New Zealand. * '''2027''': Pīraʻe, [[Tahiti]] ===Pan American Games=== The [http://www.panamsports.org Pan American Games] among the countries of the Americas. * '''2027''': Host and dates TBA. Barranquilla, Colombia had been announced as host, but didn't meet contractual obligations and was stripped of hosting rights in January 2024. ===Southeast Asian Games=== The Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), held every two years in odd-numbered years, among the countries of [[Southeast Asia]]. Features some sports that are only popular in Southeast Asia such as sepak takraw and silat. * '''2025''': 7–19 December, [[Bangkok]], Thailand * '''2027''': [[Kuala Lumpur]], Malaysia * '''2029''': Singapore * '''2031''': Laos * '''2033''': Philippines === Special Olympics=== The [https://www.specialolympics.org Special Olympics] are IOC-sanctioned events for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities. ==== Special Olympics World Summer Games ==== * '''2027''': Dates TBA, [[Perth]], [[Australia]] * '''2031''': Dates TBA, [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] ==== Special Olympics World Winter Games ==== * '''2025''': Dates TBA, [[Turin]] and other venues in the [[Piedmont]] region, [[Italy]] * '''2029''': Dates TBA, [[Chur]] and other venues in the [[Graubünden]] canton, [[Switzerland]] <!-- ===Student Games=== --> ===World Games=== Held every four years in the year after the summer Olympic Games. No events overlap with any contested in the Olympics. Many of the sports are not part of the Olympic program at all; the World Games also feature many non-Olympic disciplines or events within Olympic sports. The events are organized by the International World Games Association, which is recognized by the IOC. * '''2025''': 7–17 July, [[Chengdu]], China ==Events for a single sport== ===American football=== {{main|American football}} ==== National Football League ==== * '''Super Bowl LX''' – 8 February 2026 at Levi's Stadium in [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]], [[California]] (home to the San Francisco 49ers). * '''Super Bowl LXI''' – 14 February 2027 at SoFi Stadium in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Inglewood]], California (home to the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams). * '''Super Bowl LXII''' – Date TBA in February 2028 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in [[Atlanta/Downtown|downtown]] [[Atlanta]], Georgia (home to the Atlanta Falcons). =====NFL International Series===== At least five regular season games, with three in [[London]] (England) and at least two in other countries. The NFL has contracts with two London venues, namely Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The nominal home teams for the 2025 games have been announced (the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley, the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets at Spurs, the Indianapolis Colts in Berlin, the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin). The date for the Dublin game has been announced; other dates are expected to be announced in spring 2025.<!--Following standard US usage, the second team listed is the designated "home" team.--> ======NFL games in Mexico====== The NFL first held a regular season game in Mexico in 2005. Despite good attendance, the league did not return until the 2016 season, the first of what was meant to be a three-year deal to hold one game each season in that country. With both the 2016 and 2017 games selling out, the deal was extended through the 2021 season with an eye to possibly play more than one game per season in future years. All Mexico games thus far have been held in Estadio Azteca in [[Mexico City]]. The most recent Mexico game was in 2022. With Estadio Azteca being renovated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there will be no Mexico games until at least the 2026 season. ======NFL games in Germany====== In February 2022, the NFL announced a four-year agreement to expand the NFL International Series in Germany. The games were originally to be split between the Allianz Arena in Munich and Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt. The first game was held in the 2022 season. With the Mexico game being put on hold due to stadium renovations, there were two Germany games in 2023, both in Frankfurt. The 2024 game was held in Munich with the Carolina Panthers "hosting" and defeating the New York Giants. Berlin is joining the list of Germany hosts, with Olympiastadion set to host its first game at a so-far-undetermined date in 2025. ======NFL games in Brazil====== The NFL announced in November 2023 it would extend its International Series to Brazil. The first game in that country was held on September 6, 2024, with the Philadelphia Eagles "hosting" and defeating the Green Bay Packers at Arena Corinthians in [[São Paulo]]. Another Brazil game will be held on September 5, 2025, again at Arena Corinthians, with the Los Angeles Chargers as "host". ======NFL games in Spain====== Shortly after announcing the expansion to Brazil, the NFL extended the series to Spain. The first game in Spain will be held in 2025 at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in [[Madrid]] with the Miami Dolphins as "host". ======NFL games in Ireland====== The NFL has also extended the series to Ireland, with the first game being "hosted" by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 at Croke Park in [[Dublin]]. ======NFL games in Australia====== In 2026, the NFL expands its "International Series" to Australia, with the first game of the regular season being played at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground with the Los Angeles Rams "hosting". ==== US college football ==== * '''College Football Playoff National Championship''' ** 2026: Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], [[Florida]] (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 19 ** 2027: Allegiant Stadium in [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|Paradise]], [[Nevada]] (home of the Las Vegas Raiders); January 25 ** 2028: Caesars Superdome in [[New Orleans]], [[Louisiana]] (home of the New Orleans Saints); January 24 ** 2029: Raymond James Stadium in [[Tampa]], [[Florida]] (home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers); January 22 ** 2030: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 21 Each of these games is the championship for the previous calendar year. The bulk of the American football season takes place in the northern hemisphere fall/autumn. ====European League of Football==== * '''ELF Championship Game''' – 2025 edition at Neckarstadion (aka MHPArena) in [[Stuttgart]], Germany at a date in September to be determined ====German Football League==== * [http://www.germanbowl.de/ German Bowl] – 2025 host TBA ===Australian rules football=== {{main|Australian rules football}} ====Australian Football League==== * '''2025 AFL Grand Final''' at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground – 27 September ===Badminton=== Badminton is generally most popular in Asia, and Asian countries generally dominate the international tournaments; Denmark is the only non-Asian country to be considered a badminton powerhouse. Although badminton is popularly regarded as a backyard sport in the United States and often played outdoors recreationally, professional badminton is almost always played indoors. The '''[https://bwfworldtour.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour]''' is the premier professional tournament circuit, and is divided into six tiers. The top tier is occupied by a single tournament: the season-concluding '''[https://bwfworldtourfinals.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour Finals]''' in December every year. This is planned to be held in [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] until at least 2026. All BWF World Tour tournaments feature both men's and women's tournaments, as well as a mixed doubles tournament. The next tier is the BWF World Tour Super 1000, comprising the four most important tournaments on the circuit apart from the Finals, offering the largest number of ranking points and amount of prize money. As of 2024, they are as follows: *'''Malaysia Open''' — held in January every year at the Putra Indoor Stadium in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. *'''[https://www.allenglandbadminton.com All England Open]''' — the oldest international badminton tournament in the world, and the most prestigious tournament on the circuit. Held in March every year at the Arena Birmingham in [[Birmingham]]. *'''China Open''' — held in September every year. Since 2018, has been held at the Xincheng Gymnasium in [[Changzhou]]. *'''Indonesia Open''' — held in November every year at the Istora Gelora Bung Karno in [[Jakarta]]. Below that is the BWF World Tour 750, which offer less ranking points and prize money, but generally still attract most of the top players. *'''China Masters''' — held in November at the Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium in [[Shenzhen]]. *'''[https://denmarkopen.dk/ Denmark Open]''' — held in October at the Arena Fyn in [[Odense]]. *'''[https://www.yonexifb.com/uk/home French Open]''' — usually held in October, but the 2024 event was held in March at the Adidas Arena in [[Paris]] as a trial event for the Olympics. *'''[https://daihatsu-japan-open.com/ Japan Open]''' — held in August at the Yokohama Arena in [[Yokohama]]. *'''India Open''' — held in January at the K. D. Jadhav Indoor Hall in [[Delhi]]. *'''Singapore Open''' — held in late May or early June at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]]. The '''[https://bwfworldchampionships.bwfbadminton.com World Championships]''' are held every year except in Olympic years. Badminton has been an Olympic sport since 1992, with the Olympics generally being considered the premier tournament in the sport. There is also the '''Thomas Cup''' for men's national teams, and the '''Uber Cup''' for women's national teams, which mostly operate as multi-level leagues. ===Baseball=== {{seealso|Baseball|Baseball in the United States}} * World Baseball Classic * '''[https://www.seriedelcaribe.net/ Caribbean Series]''' (''Serie del Caribe'') is a championship tournament held in February each year. Champion teams from professional baseball leagues of various Caribbean and Latin American countries compete for the championship. * '''Little League World Series''' – Held over 10 days, ending on the last Sunday of August, in [[Williamsport|South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA]]. ===Basketball=== ====NBA==== {{seealso|Basketball in North America}} ====US college basketball==== The biggest event in US college (university) basketball is the NCAA Division I men's tournament, featuring 68 teams. The Division I women's tournament draws considerably less interest, but is still the biggest event in American women's college sports. The men's tournament begins on the Tuesday preceding the third Thursday in March (in terms of dates, no earlier than March 13 and no later than March 19) in [[Dayton|Dayton, Ohio]] with an eight-team round marketed as the First Four, featuring two games on Tuesday and two on Wednesday. The winners of these four games join the remaining 60 tournament teams for the first round, which starts on the third Thursday in March. The women's tournament expanded from 64 teams to 68 starting in 2022, with its own First Four; it starts the day after the men's tournament. The four-team final rounds of these tournaments are known as the Final Four. Future Final Four sites are: ;Men * 2026 – April 4 and 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in [[Indianapolis]] * 2027 – April 3 and 5 at Ford Field in [[Detroit]] * 2028 – April 1 and 3 at Allegiant Stadium just [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|west]] of the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Las Vegas Strip]] * 2029 – March 31 and April 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis * 2030 – April 6 and 8 at AT&T Stadium in [[Arlington (Texas)|Arlington, Texas]], between [[Dallas]] and [[Fort Worth]] ;Women * 2026 – April 3 and 5 at PHX Arena in [[Phoenix]] * 2027 – April 2 and 4 at Nationwide Arena in [[Columbus|Columbus, Ohio]] * 2028 – March 31 and April 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis * 2029 – March 30 and April 1 at the Alamodome in San Antonio * 2030 – April 5 and 7 at Moda Center in [[Portland (Oregon)|Portland, Oregon]] * 2031 – April 4 and 6 at American Airlines Center in Dallas ====EuroLeague==== The EuroLeague is basketball's equivalent to the UEFA Champions League in association football (soccer), featuring top club teams from throughout Europe (note that in sports, "Europe" includes several countries either partly or totally in Asia, most notably Russia, Turkey, and Israel). The season starts in October and ends with the '''EuroLeague Final Four''' in May. * 2026 – May 22 and 24 in either Athens or Belgrade (site TBA) ===Canadian football=== {{seealso|American football#Canadian Football League}} * '''112th Grey Cup''' at Princess Auto Stadium in [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]] (home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers); November 16, 2025 * '''113th Grey Cup''' at McMahon Stadium in [[Calgary/Northwest|northwest]] [[Calgary]], [[Alberta]] (home of the Calgary Stampeders); November 15, 2026 ===Cricket=== {{main|Cricket}} * '''[https://www.lords.org/lords/our-history/the-ashes The Ashes]''' — November 2025–January 2026 at the following venues in [[Australia]]: ** [[Perth]] Stadium, in the [[Perth/The Suburbs|northern suburb]] of Burswood — 21–25 November 2025 ** The Gabba, in the [[Brisbane]] suburb of Wooloongabba — 4–8 December 2025 ** [[Adelaide]] Oval, in the [[Adelaide/City and North Adelaide|parklands]] between the central business district and North Adelaide — 17–21 December 2025 ** [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground, in Yarra Park in the city's [[Melbourne/Inner east|inner east]] — 26–30 December 2025. The traditional Boxing Day Test at the MCG is one of the sport's most iconic events. ** [[Sydney]] Cricket Ground, in Moore Park in the [[Sydney/City East|inner eastern suburbs]] — 4—8 January 2026 * '''Cricket World Cup''' — October—November 2027, co-hosted by [[South Africa]], [[Zimbabwe]] and [[Namibia]]. ===Cycling=== Road bicycle racing is broadly divided into two race types: * '''Single-day races''' — Exactly as the name implies, these races are held on a single day at around the same time each year. Some have fixed courses; more have fixed starting and end points with courses varying slightly from year to year. The most prestigious races of this type are often called "classics", but the term is poorly defined. * '''Stage races''' — Held over more than one day, with one race each day known as a "stage" (though some races, notably the Grand Tours, will include one or two rest days). While there is an award ceremony at the end of each stage, the overall winner is determined by "general classification"—the cumulative time for the entire race. The most famous road racing events for bicycles in the world are the three stage races known as Grand Tours. They are raced in Italy, France, and Spain but commonly also include legs in other countries. These tours, each featuring 21 stages, involve only men's races, and are even more prestigious than the road cycling events at the Olympics. * '''[https://www.giroditalia.it Giro d'Italia]''' — around Italy, usually takes place in May. * '''[https://www.letour.fr/en/ Tour de France]''' — around France, usually takes place in July. The most prestigious of the three. * '''[https://www.lavuelta.es/en Vuelta a España]''' — around Spain, usually takes place in August. While countless single-day races are run, both throughout Europe and worldwide, the most famous are the five races known as "Monuments", all of which were first held between 1890 and 1915. * '''[[Milan]]–[[Sanremo|San Remo]]''' (Italian: ''Milano–Sanremo'') – The first major classic of the year, usually on the third Saturday of March on a course between the two named locations. It's considered "the sprinters' classic" because its mostly flat course favors that type of rider. * '''Tour of [[Flanders]]''' (Dutch: ''Ronde van Vlaanderen'') – Held in early April through [[Belgium]]'s Flanders region between [[Antwerp]] and [[Oudenaarde]]. The first of the "cobbled classics", with many key sections (including several short but very steep hills) paved in cobblestones. * '''[[Paris]]–[[Roubaix]]''' – Probably ''the'' most famous single-day race, it's known as the "Queen of the Classics" and ''l'Enfer du Nord'' ("The Hell of the North [of France]"). Held one week after the Tour of Flanders, it features even longer stretches of cobblestone roads, making it arguably the hardest single-day race on riders. * '''[[Liège]]–[[Bastogne]]–Liège''' – Held in late April in Belgium, this race is nearly as hard on riders as Paris–Roubaix, but for different reasons, namely a long course with numerous short but steep hills in the [[Ardennes]] region, as well as an uphill finish in Liège. * '''Giro di [[Lombardy|Lombardia]]''' (officially ''Il Lombardia'') – The year's final Monument, held in October over a course that varies from year to year, with only a few fixed locations, most famously the arduous climb to the Madonna del Ghisallo church in Magreglio near Lake Como. The race ends in either [[Bergamo]] or [[Como]]. Known as "the climbers' classic" from its many significant climbs. Cycling is also featured at the Summer Olympics in 4 disciplines; track cycling, road cycling, mountain biking and BMX. With the exception of the men's road cycling discipline, these are generally considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of cycling. <!-- ===Gaelic football=== --> ===Golf=== {{main|Golf}} The most important professional golf tournaments in the world are knowns as the '''majors''', offering the largest amounts of prize money and world ranking points. The men's and women's professional circuits are run separately, with a separate set of majors for each sex. The most important men's professional circuit is the U.S.-based PGA Tour, while the corresponding professional circuit for women is the LPGA Tour, also based in the U.S. The PGA and LPGA also sanction some tournaments outside the U.S., and some tournaments are co-sanctioned by multiple professional circuits. For instance, all the men's majors are co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour, the European Tour and the Japan Golf Tour. Golf was an Olympic sport 1900–1904, and has been one since 2016. The Olympic golf tournament is less prestigious than the majors and offers no prize money, and many of the top male golfers choose to skip it, but the top female golfers usually participate. ====Men's==== ;Major championships Three of the four men's major championships are held in the U.S. The only exception is The Open Championship, also known as the "British Open". Each tournament is played from Thursday through Sunday, barring weather-related delays, and has a fixed weekend on the calendar. Tickets for practice sessions during the days before the tournament starts are also sold. A golfer who wins all four majors in the same calendar year is said to have completed the '''Grand Slam''', which has yet to be achieved (Tiger Woods won all four consecutively, but spanning two calendar years starting from the 2000 U.S. Open to the 2001 Masters Tournament; at the time, the PGA Championship was the year's final major, instead of the second). * '''Masters Tournament''' (always held at Augusta National Golf Club in [[Augusta (Georgia)|Augusta]], [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]) – ends on the second Sunday in April. The next edition is set for 9–12 April 2026. * '''PGA Championship''' – ends on the third Sunday of May; next edition to be held 14–17 May 2026 at Aronimink Golf Club in the [[Philadelphia]] suburb of Newtown Square, [[Pennsylvania]]. ** Sites have been set through 2034, with the exception of 2033. * '''U.S. Open''' – ends on the third Sunday in June; next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in [[Southampton (New York)|Southampton]], New York (near the eastern end of [[Long Island]], about 85 miles/140 km from Midtown Manhattan). ** Sites have been set through 2042, as well as for most subsequent years through 2051. * '''The Open Championship''' – played during the week containing the third Friday in July; next edition to be held 17–20 July 2025 at Royal [[Portrush]] Golf Club in [[County Antrim]], [[Northern Ireland]] (about 60 mi/100 km from [[Belfast]] and 35 mi/60 km from [[Derry|Derry/Londonderry]]. The tournament returns to the historic Old Course at [[St Andrews]] every few years, and is of special significance when it does. ** The 2026 edition will be played at Royal Birkdale in [[Southport]] from 16–19 July. ** The 2027 edition will be held at the Old Course from 15–18 July. ;Other significant events * '''Ryder Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in odd-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2025 – 26–28 September at the Black Course of [[Bethpage]] State Park on [[Long Island]] (about 35 miles/56 km east of Midtown Manhattan) ** 2027 – 17-19 September at [[Adare]] Manor in [[County Limerick]], [[Ireland]] ** 2029 – Dates TBA in September at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota (a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]) *'''Presidents Cup''' (competition between a USA team and an "International" team of non-Europeans) – Held in even-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and a non-European country ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Medinah Country Club in [[Medinah]], [[Illinois]] (a northwest suburb of [[Chicago]]). ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia (a [[Melbourne/South-Eastern suburbs|southeastern suburb]] of [[Melbourne]]). ** 2030 – Dates TBA at Bellerive Country Club in Town and Country, [[Missouri]] (in the West County region of [[St. Louis County]], which borders on the city of [[St. Louis]]). ====Women's==== ;Major championships Three of the five women's major championships are held in the U.S. As with the men's major championships, all are held from Thursday through Sunday (barring weather delays). * '''Chevron Championship''' (held at The Club at Carlton Woods in [[The Woodlands]], Texas, about 30 mi/50 km north of [[Houston]]) – The next edition is expected to be 23–26 April 2026. * '''U.S. Women's Open''' – Next edition to be held 4–7 June 2026 at Riviera Country Club in the [[Los Angeles]] neighborhood of [[Pacific Palisades]]. ** Future sites have been set through 2036, and for several subsequent years through 2048. * '''Women's PGA Championship''' – Next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]. * '''The Evian Championship''' (always held at the Evian Resort Golf Club in [[Evian|Évian-les-Bains]], [[France]]) – Typically held in July, though the dates haven't been consistent from year to year. The next edition will be from 10–13 July 2025. * '''Women's Open Championship''' (aka "Women's British Open") – From 2025, three weeks after the Evian Championship, allowing the tour to go on a European swing. The 2025 edition will be at Royal [[Porthcawl]] Golf Club in Wales from 31 July–3 August. ;Other significant events * '''Solheim Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in even-numbered years (from 2024) in August or September; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, [[Netherlands]] (just south of [['s-Hertogenbosch|Den Bosch]]) ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Valhalla Golf Club in [[Louisville|Louisville, Kentucky]] (slightly less than 20 mi/32 km east of downtown) * '''International Crown''' (team competition involving seven national teams, plus a "World" team made up of players not from one of the preceding seven countries) – From 2023, held in odd-numbered years in October ** 2025 – 23–26 October at New Korea Country Club in [[Goyang]], [[South Korea]] ===Handball=== {{see also|Handball in Europe}} Olympic or team Handball is a fast paced team sport that is mostly played indoors and enjoys considerable popularity in most of continental Europe. The world cup as well as the European championship are major events, second only to soccer. The best national leagues (found in Germany, France and the Nordic countries) battle out a club champion every year. There is also the [http://www.ehfcl.com EHF Champions League] which battles out Europe's top club team every year. === Ice hockey === {{seealso|Ice hockey in North America|Ice hockey in Europe}} ==== Men's ==== ;IIHF Men's World Championship * 2026: 15–31 May, [[Zurich|Zürich]] and [[Fribourg]], [[Switzerland]] * 2027: 14–30 May, [[Düsseldorf]] and [[Mannheim]], [[Germany]] * 2028: 12–28 May, [[Paris]] and [[Lyon]], [[France]] ==== Women's ==== ;IIHF Women's World Championship Since 2022, the top level of the Women's World Championships has been held annually, even in Winter Olympic years. From 1997–2021, the top level was an annual affair, but Winter Olympic years were skipped. * 2026: Host, dates, and sites TBA ===Motor racing=== {{seealso|Motor sport}} ====[[Formula One]]==== See the dedicated article. ====NASCAR==== A U.S. stock car racing organization, and the country's most popular form of motorsport. The term "stock car" is a historic reference; when NASCAR first organized races in the years immediately after World War II, the cars were in fact "stock"—exactly as purchased from dealers, with minimal safety-related changes. Over time, the cars changed to the point that they are only vaguely similar in external appearance to current street vehicles, with much more powerful engines and far more safety equipment. NASCAR now operates three national touring series: * Cup Series, the top series * Xfinity Series, the second level * Craftsman Truck Series, the third level, which races pickup trucks instead of cars; usually called simply the "Truck Series" Most races are held on oval tracks. For many years, no more than one or two Cup Series races were held on road courses, but since 2021 that number has gone up to six. Five Xfinity Series races and three Truck Series are also held on road courses. Before COVID-19, the Truck Series held one race in Canada, but border restrictions led to that date being transferred south of the border, and NASCAR has yet to return any of its U.S. national series to Canada (although it runs a separate Canadian series). The sport used to be centered in the Southeastern U.S., but beginning in the 1990s it expanded to become a national spectacle. A typical NASCAR event spans a long weekend, with two or even all three series holding races at one site. Unlike most sports, NASCAR's biggest event is the ''first'' race of the season: * '''Daytona 500''', held on the day before the Presidents Day holiday (which falls on the third Monday of February) at Daytona International Speedway in [[Daytona Beach]], [[Florida]] ====IndyCar==== A U.S.-based open-wheel racing series. It was established in its current form in 2008, when the IndyCar Series (launched in 1996) merged with the former Champcars series. The merger is a story in itself—as late as the early 1990s, open-wheel racing, governed by a body known as CART (which later became Champcars), was the most popular form of motorsport in the U.S. However, in 1994, the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the series' marquee event, the Indianapolis 500, had a bitter falling-out with CART, leading to the creation of the competing IndyCar series (which took the Indy 500 with it). The feud led many former open-wheel fans to abandon the sport, often for NASCAR. By the time the feud ended, attendance and sponsorship money for the sport were a fraction of what they had been only 15 years earlier, and only in the late 2010s had it begun to recover some of its original prominence. All of the series' races are held in the U.S. except for one on a street course in [[Toronto]]. The tracks are a mixture of ovals, road courses, and street circuits. The series' marquee event, as mentioned above, is: * '''Indianapolis 500''', held the day before the U.S. holiday of Memorial Day (which falls on the last Monday of May) at the [[Indianapolis]] Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana (a community completely surrounded by the city of Indianapolis) ==== Motorcycle speedway ==== Motorcycle speedway is a sport where lightweight motorcycles race each other on an oval-shaped track. It is most popular in [[Poland]] but also has a major presence in [[Australia]], [[Britain]], and [[Sweden]]. ===== Important events ===== *'''Speedway Grand Prix''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's late spring, summer, and early fall. *'''Speedway of Nations''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's summer (usually June or July). ===Rugby=== {{main|Rugby football}} ====Rugby union==== * 2025 '''Rugby Championship''', various locations in [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], and [[South Africa]]. Normally held August–October, with an abbreviated and time-shifted version held in years of the men's Rugby World Cup. * 2025: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to Australia, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in England, 22 August–27 September *** Note that World Rugby, the governing body for union, uses the "Rugby World Cup" name for both its men's and women's championship events. * 2026 '''Six Nations Championship''', February–March: ** [[Cardiff]], Principality Stadium (Millennium Stadium) ** [[Dublin]], Aviva Stadium ** [[Edinburgh]], Scottish Gas Murrayfield ** [[London]], Twickenham Stadium ** [[Rome]], Stadio Olimpico ** [[Saint-Denis (Île-de-France)|Saint-Denis]] ([[Paris]]), Stade de France * 2027 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2029: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to New Zealand, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2031 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in the United States, dates TBA * 2033: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to South Africa, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in the United States, dates TBA ====Rugby sevens==== * '''World Rugby Sevens Series''' and '''World Rugby Women's Sevens Series''': A series of 8 tournaments for national men's and women's sevens teams held at various locations around the world. In the current format, all events see both sexes compete on the same weekend. Marketed as the '''HSBC SVNS''' (with HSBC being the main corporate sponsor). World Rugby has scrapped the former Rugby World Cup Sevens, making the annual SVNS series its effective successor. ** '''[[Dubai]] Sevens''' – The traditional season opener, held on the weekend including the first Saturday in December at a stadium known as The Sevens. ** '''South Africa Sevens''' – Held on the weekend after the Dubai Sevens at [[Cape Town]] Stadium. ** '''Australian Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of January at [[Perth]] Rectangular Stadium (commercially HBF Park). ** '''Canada Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of February at BC Place in [[Vancouver/Yaletown-False Creek|downtown]] [[Vancouver]]. ** '''USA Sevens''' – Held the weekend after the Canada Sevens at Dignity Health Sports Park in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Carson|Carson, California]]. ** '''[[Hong Kong]] Sevens''' – The most famous men's event. Held in early April at Hong Kong Stadium in So Kon Po, in the [[Hong Kong/Eastern District|east]] of Hong Kong Island. ** '''[[Singapore]] Sevens''' – Held in early May at the National Stadium in Kallang, a district just to the [[Singapore/East Coast|northeast]] of the Downtown Core. ** '''[[Madrid]] Sevens''' – The final event, held at Estadio Metropolitano in the city's [[Madrid/Northern Suburbs|northern]] San Blas district. ====Rugby league==== =====National Rugby League===== *'''NRL Grand Final''' – The first or second Saturday of October at the Sydney Cricket Ground, just [[Sydney/Eastern Suburbs|east of the city centre]]. *'''State of Origin''' series – three matches in all in May–July. One match is normally held in the capital city of each state represented: Stadium Australia (aka Accor Stadium) in the [[Sydney/Sydney Olympic Park|Sydney Olympic Park]], and Lang Park (aka Suncorp Stadium) in [[Brisbane]]. The third game rotates between several cities outside New South Wales and Queensland: [[Adelaide]] (Adelaide Oval), [[Melbourne]] (Melbourne Cricket Ground), and [[Perth]] (Perth Stadium, aka Optus Stadium). =====Super League===== *'''Super League Grand Final''' – =====International===== *'''2026 Rugby League World Cup''' - [[France]] ===Soccer=== {{seealso|Association football|Association football in Europe}} ====Men's==== * '''2025''' FIFA U-17 World Cup, 3–27 November in [[Qatar]]. This becomes an annual event starting in 2025, with Qatar confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2025''' FIFA U-20 World Cup, 27 September–19 October in several cities in [[Chile]] (final most likely in [[Santiago]]) * '''2026''' FIFA World Cup in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], and [[Mexico]]; 11 June–19 July (final in [[East Rutherford]], New Jersey, near New York City) ====Women's==== * '''2025''' [https://www.fifa.com/u17womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, 17 October–8 November in [[Morocco]]. Starting in 2025, this becomes an annual event, with Morocco confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2026''' [https://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup],{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} 5–27 September in [[Poland]] * '''2027''' FIFA Women's World Cup in [[Brazil]], 24 June–25 July ===Table tennis=== [[China]] has been the world's dominant force in table tennis since at least the 1980s, so it comes as no surprise that the '''China Table Tennis Super League''' (CTTSL) is one of the best tournaments in the world, featuring not only the best players from all over China, but several top international players as well. The main international professional circuit is known as '''[https://worldtabletennis.com/ World Table Tennis]''' (WTT), of which the top level is known as the '''WTT Series'''. The most important WTT Series tournaments, offering the most world ranking points and prize money, are known as the '''Grand Smashes''', of which there are three, as of 2024: *'''[https://www.singaporesmash.com Singapore Smash]''' — held in March at the Singapore Sports Hub in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]] *'''[https://www.saudismash.com Saudi Smash]''' — held in May at King Abdullah Sports City in [[Jeddah]] *'''China Smash''' — held in late September and early October at Shougang Park in [[Beijing]] The season-concluding tournament of the WTT Series is the '''WTT Finals''', featuring the top 16 singles players and top 8 doubles pairs of each sex. The 2024 WTT Finals will be held from 20-24 November at the [[Kitakyushu]] General Gymnasium. Table tennis is also contested at the Summer Olympics, which is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport. The table tennis event at the Olympics consists of men's and women's singles, men's and women's teams, and a mixed doubles event. There is also the annual '''World Table Tennis Championships''', which is contested between individuals and doubles pairs in odd years, and between national teams in even years. ===Tennis=== ''See also [[Tennis]].'' Tennis has events throughout the calendar year. The top-level men's tour is the ATP Tour, with the WTA Tour as the women's counterpart. The men's and women's tours come together for the four '''Grand Slam''' events and a few other select tournaments throughout the year. The only players to have ever completed the Grand Slam are Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 & 1969) in the men's event, and Maureen Connolly (1953), Margaret Court (1970) and Steffi Graf (1988) in the women's event. In addition to these, the '''[https://www.daviscup.com/ Davis Cup]''' for men and '''[https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/ Billie Jean King Cup]''' (known as the Fed Cup until 2020) for women are the top events for national teams; these operate as multi-level leagues. The top levels (now known as the "Finals" in both events) were traditionally conducted as knockout tournaments, but now use a format similar to that of the FIFA World Cup, with all qualifying nations meeting at a single site for a group stage followed by a knockout stage. A player who wins all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year is said to have completed a '''golden slam''', and the only able-bodied player to have done so to date was Germany's Steffi Graf in 1988. (The doubles partnership of American identical twins Bob and Mike Bryan, aka the Bryan Brothers, won all of the required events consecutively, but their streak started with the 2012 Olympics, thus spanning two calendar years. Two wheelchair tennis players have completed the calendar-year golden slam, with their version replacing the able-bodied Olympics with the Paralympic Games.) At the professional level, tennis court surfaces can be divided into three types: grass, clay and hard. Each of these surfaces has a different bounce profile for the ball, thus favouring different playing styles. While all professional tennis players are competent on all three surfaces, some players are known to excel on particular surfaces; for instance, Rafael Nadal was known for his excellence on clay courts during his prime, while Roger Federer was well-known for his prowess on grass courts. Most ATP and WTA events feature both singles and doubles tournaments, with Grand Slams and the Olympics also featuring a mixed doubles tournament. ====Grand Slam events==== All four of these events are held over two weeks (15 days of play at all events except Wimbledon, still at 14). They are considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of tennis, and are even more prestigious than the Olympics. * '''[https://ausopen.com/ Australian Open]''': Ends on the last Sunday in January at [[Melbourne]] Park just outside the city centre. Frequently suffers from hot and humid weather in the southern summer, although this has been alleviated by retractable roofs on the three main courts. The final is held in the Rod Laver Arena, which is named after Rod Laver, the only player to have completed a grand slam twice, and the last man to achieve the feat when he did so in 1969. Has been played on hard courts since 1988. * '''[https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/ French Open]''' (also known as ''Roland Garros''): Held in late May and early June at ''Stade Roland Garros'' in the Bois de Boulogne in the [[Paris/16th arrondissement|16th arondissement]] of [[Paris]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event still held on clay courts. * '''[https://www.wimbledon.com/ Wimbledon]''': Begins on the first Monday in July and ends on the second Sunday following at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in the [[London/Wimbledon|Wimbledon]] neighbourhood of southwest [[London]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event held on grass courts, requiring all players to dress only in white (though women are now allowed to wear colored underwear to better hide menstruation), and many other traditions. The oldest and most prestigious of the Grand Slams. * '''[https://www.usopen.org/ US Open]''': Begins in August, on the Sunday that precedes the weekend of the US holiday of Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September. Ends on the Sunday following Labor Day. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in the northern part of the [[New York City]] borough of [[Queens]]. Has been played on hard courts since 1978. ====Season-ending championships==== Both the ATP and WTA have season-ending events for the very top players, with eight players qualifying for the finals in singles and eight teams in doubles. The competitors are divided into two groups of four, each playing a round-robin within the group. The top two finishers in each group advance to the semifinals, with the winners of each semifinal contesting the final. * '''[https://www.nittoatpfinals.com/en ATP Finals]''': Mid-November at Pala Alpitour (aka Palasport Olimpico) in [[Turin]], Italy. * '''[https://www.wtatennis.com/wta-finals WTA Finals]''': Late October–early November in [[Riyadh]], Saudi Arabia. In the mid-2010s, the WTA Tour launched the '''WTA Elite Trophy''', a second season-ending event for players immediately below those who qualify for the WTA Finals. It was suspended because Covid-19 from 2020 to 2020.. ====Other top-tier events==== Both the ATP and WTA have a multi-level hierarchy of events, with the Grand Slams at the top, followed by the season-ending championships and then the events shown here (with other levels below these in both cases). The two tours have differing terminology for this level: * ATP: Nine events known as the "ATP Tour Masters 1000". All top players are required to enter these events (barring injury or other misfortune), with the exception of the Monte-Carlo Masters. * WTA: The "WTA 1000" was established in 2021 by the merger of the former "Premier Mandatory" and "Premier 5" events. Since 2024, there have been ten WTA 1000 tournaments, all of which are mandatory. * Olympics: The tennis event at the Olympics is less prestigious than the Grand Slams, and many top players choose to skip it, while those who compete often do not take it seriously and lose to little-known lower-ranked opponents. Moreover, the Olympics typically falls in the middle of the U.S. hard court season, meaning that players miss important tournaments and lose valuable ranking points in their quest to qualify for the season-ending championships should they choose to participate. That said, there is a special prestige attached to winning all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in a single calendar year, known as a golden slam. Unlike in the professional circuits, doubles pairs at the Olympics must be from the same country. With that in mind, here are the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events: * '''[[Qatar]] Ladies Open''': Mid-February at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in [[Doha]]. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Dubai]] Tennis Championships''': Late February at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour also plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''Indian Wells Masters''' (men) and '''Indian Wells Open''' (women): Early March in [[Indian Wells]], California (near Palm Springs). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Miami Open''': Late March–early April at Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], Florida (north of the city of Miami). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Monte-Carlo Masters''': Mid-April at Monte Carlo Country Club in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, next to Monaco. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Madrid]] Open''': Mid-May at Caja Mágica in Madrid. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Italian Open''': Week following the Madrid Open at Foro Italico in Rome. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Canadian Open''': Early August at Stade IGA in Montreal and Sobeys Stadium (formerly Aviva Centre) in Toronto. In odd-numbered years, the men play in Montreal and the women in Toronto, and vice versa in even-numbered years. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Cincinnati Masters''' (men) and '''Cincinnati Open''' (women): Week after the Canadian Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in [[Mason (Ohio)|Mason, Ohio]], northeast of [[Cincinnati]]. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Wuhan]] Open''': Last week of September at Optics Valley International Tennis Center. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''China Open''': Start of October, immediately following the Wuhan Open, at the National Tennis Center in [[Beijing]]. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''[[Shanghai]] Masters''': Week after the China Open at Qi Zhong Stadium in the southwest of the city. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Paris]] Masters''': Late October–early November at AccorHotels Arena in the [[Paris/12th arrondissement|12th arrondissement]]. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' The Grand Slams, tour finals and ATP Masters 1000/WTA 1000 tournaments are collectively known as the '''Big Titles'''. Serbia's Novak Djokovic is the only singles player of either sex to have won all the Big Titles in the course of his career, and was said to have "completed the game of tennis" by adding the Olympic gold medal to those in 2024. Three other men's players, all retired, have won all of the Big Titles in doubles—Canadian Daniel Nestor as an individual, and the aforementioned Bryan Brothers as a team. All also have Olympic gold medals in doubles. Djokovic and the Bryans have also been on national teams that won the Davis Cup. ==Stay safe== Take precautions typical for [[Stay safe#Mass gatherings|large crowds]] and major events, with risk factors such as [[pickpocketing]], [[infectious diseases]], drunk brawls and stampedes. '''Hooliganism''' is organized violence associated with sport fandom, in particular prevalent in [[association football in Europe|men's football in Europe]]. The risk of hooliganism differs between countries and teams, and might be difficult to assess from a neutral source. {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Sports}} 8ff3eocm5evikvb9b0f05jssmgwvoey 5090945 5090944 2025-07-10T16:27:14Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Gay Games */ 5090945 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|MalmöFF Fans banner.jpg|caption=Fans of Malmö FF, a Swedish football team}} '''Spectator sports''' are those where the players are greatly outnumbered by their audience, often a thousandfold and sometimes a millionfold for the biggest events. These usually involve travel, often long-distance, so there is a distinct experience of sports travel for those crowds, covered on this page. See [[Sports]] for those you participate in yourself, watched (if at all) by a few family members or ex-players. See [[Activities]] for the broader sphere of mostly non-competitive pastimes such as bird-watching. == Understand == [[File:Olympic Torch 2010.jpg | thumb | 300px | Lighting the Olympic flame from the sun]] Spectator sports have a long history: in the western tradition this is exemplified by the ancient Olympic Games. But mass travelling audiences only emerged in the 19th century, with the development of leisure time, disposable income, and public transport. Indeed the Olympics are a 19th-century reinvention, with the ancient event lapsing around 400 AD and the modern version launching in Athens in 1896. In the 19th and 20th centuries, three tribes emerged: an elite of professional players, an audience watching them direct or on TV or internet, and the "grassroots" playing at amateur or junior level. Of course there is overlap, but the stark feature today is how different those worlds have become; certainly their travel experiences could not be more different. The divergence caused great soul-searching in sports associations, and sometimes acrimonious splits. It's no spoiler to say that big money and big business won, and spectator sports are designed to extract their followers' cash not only by gate receipts, but by advertising and sponsorship, by merchandising, by broadcasting rights, and by gambling. Spectator sports are also a matter of national prestige and policy: countries market themselves as sports destination, and by "sports-washing" deflect attention from their unattractive regimes. The live audience for big events is nowadays greatly outnumbered by TV and internet viewers, and developments in virtual reality promise to take this further. But for the time being, the crowd is essential to the event. They descend in partisan masses upon the host city, throng the pubs and transport hubs, and book up accommodation. Their chants and slogans, team regalia, cheers and boos, all create an intense atmosphere. Alcohol-fuelled violence has too often been a by-product. Early spectators simply milled around the playing area, craning to see the action. It's still like that in golf, where crowds follow their favourite player from hole to hole, and in on-road races for cycling and motor sports where the biggest audience is close to the finish line but people find vantage points all along the way. Larger crowds made this unmanageable for most sports, so embankments then stadiums were built: modern examples are huge and architecturally exciting. Stadiums may be multi-purpose or dedicated to one sport, and a big division is between those for ball games, and those incorporating a running track, which makes them suitable for Olympics but distances the crowd. They may be "borrowed" for events, for instance international rugby matches may use a soccer stadium simply for extra capacity. The upkeep of a stadium (even a small one) is usually part-financed by a sponsorship deal, so they change their names for the length of the deal, sometimes just for a specific event. Signage on streets and public transport can't keep up with this so be sure to check not only which stadium you're going to, but any other names it's locally known by. Every big city has a sports or other mass event at least once a week, so they are well-practised in signage, stewarding and crowd safety, extra and diverted transport, and policing. See individual city pages for accommodation, and other things to see and do there. See [[Events]] for the very largest, which embroil entire countries for days on end. These draw a travelling army of fans following their teams from city to city as the tournament progresses, so even if you don't plan to attend, you have to factor the event into your travel plans. ==Articles about watching sports== <div style="{{column-width|25em}}"> * [[Spectator sports in Japan]] * [[American football]] * [[Association football]] ** [[Association football in Europe]] * [[Australian rules football]] * [[Baseball]] ** [[Baseball in the United States]] * [[Basketball in North America]] * [[Boxing]] * [[Bullfighting]] * [[Cricket]] * [[Field hockey]] * [[Formula One]] * [[Golf]] * [[Handball in Europe]] * [[Horse racing]] * [[Ice hockey in Europe]] * [[Ice hockey in North America]] * [[Martial arts]] * [[Motorcycle speedway]] * [[Olympic Games]] * [[Rugby football]] * [[Tennis]] </div> ==Events with multiple sports== ===African Games === The African Games are held among the countries of Africa. * '''2027''': [[Cairo]], Egypt, 20 January–7 February. * '''2031''': [[Kinshasa]], DR Congo (dates TBA). ===Asian Games=== The [http://www.ocasia.org Asian Games]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} among the countries of Asia; the second largest multi-sports games after the Summer Olympics. Features some sports that are popular in Asia but not contested at the Olympics such as wushu (Chinese martial arts), kabbadi, sepak takraw and dragon boat racing, as well as some globally-popular non-Olympic sports such as tenpin bowling and squash. The Asian Games also have added several popular esports as official medal events. The Winter Asian Games are operated by the same body but feature only winter sports. Normally held in the year before the Winter Olympics. * '''2026''': 19 September–4 October, [[Nagoya]], [[Japan]] * '''2030''': [[Doha]], [[Qatar]] * '''2034''': [[Riyadh]], [[Saudi Arabia]] <!-- ===Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games=== --> ===Bolivarian Games=== * '''2025''': November 23 to December 7 in [[Ayacucho]] and [[Lima]], [[Peru]] ===Central American Games === The Central American Games, only involving the seven nations of [[Central America]]. * '''2025''': 15–31 October, [[Guatemala City]], Guatemala ===Central America and Caribbean Games === The [https://inside.fei.org/fei/games/cont-reg-games/central-american-caribbean Central America and Caribbean Games] — the second oldest international multi-sport games. * '''2026''': Dates TBA, [[Santo Domingo]], [[Dominican Republic]] ===Commonwealth Games=== The [https://www.commonwealthsport.com Commonwealth Games] among the countries of the [[British Empire#Commonwealth countries|Commonwealth of Nations]]; the fourth-largest multi-sports games. Unlike other multi-sport events, para-sports events are held as part of the main games with the able-bodied sports events. Features some non-Olympic sports that are popular in the Commonwealth such as lawn bowls, squash and netball. [[England]], [[Scotland]], [[Wales]] and [[Northern Ireland]] send separate teams to the Commonwealth Games, in contrast to the Olympics where they send a unified [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]] team. The next games in 2026 had been scheduled for the Australian state of Victoria, but the state government pulled out in July 2023, citing financial concerns. [[Glasgow]], Scotland was announced as the new host in September 2024; the 2026 games will be considerably scaled down from past editions, with only 10 sports and no athletes' village. === Deaflympics=== The [https://www.deaflympics.com Deaflympics] is an IOC-sanctioned event for athletes with hearing impairments. Although the sports are largely the same as the Olympics, modifications are made to not rely on sounds such as starter's guns, spoken commands or referee whistles. Separate summer and winter games are held. * '''2025 Summer Deaflympics''': 15–26 November in [[Tokyo]], Japan ===European Games=== The [http://www.european-games.org/ European Games] among [[Europe]]an countries. The newest continental-level multi-sport event, with its first edition in 2015. Also in the year before the Summer Olympics. * '''2027''' in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]; dates TBA ===Gay Games=== The [https://www.gaygames.org Gay Games] attract mostly LGBT athletes, though are open to all. * '''2026''': 27 June to 4 July [[Valencia]], [[Spain]] * '''2030''': Host to be announced in November 2025 ===Jeux de la Francophonie=== [https://www.jeux.francophonie.org Jeux de la Francophonie] among the countries of La Francophonie. The Canadian provinces of [[Quebec]] and [[New Brunswick]] send separate teams from the Canadian team, and the Belgian team is restricted to sending Francophone athletes. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. *'''2027''': Dates and host TBA ===National Games of China=== The National Games of China a multi-sport competition between [[China]]'s [[Chinese provinces and regions|provincial level units]], including [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], as well as teams representing the Chinese military and various Chinese industry groups. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. The standards of the diving and table tennis competitions in particular are regarded by most to be even higher than the Olympics. * '''2025''': [[Guangdong]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] <!-- ===Lusofonia Games=== The [http://www.acolop.org/ Lusofonia Games] among the world's Portuguese-speaking countries. Last held in 2014. ===Mediterranean Games=== --> === Maccabiah Games=== The [https://www.maccabiah.com/en/ Maccabiah Games] for Jewish athletes from 85 nations, and Israelis regardless of ethnicity or religion, are the third-largest multi-sports event by number of competitors after the Summer Olympics and Asian Games. Always held in Israel. * '''2025''': July, Israel ===Olympic Games=== {{main|Olympic Games}} * [[Milan–Cortina 2026|'''2026''': Winter Olympics]], 6 – 22 Feb, [[Milan]] and [[Cortina d'Ampezzo|Cortina]], [[Italy]] * [[Los Angeles 2028|'''2028''': Summer Olympics]], 21 Jul - 6 Aug, [[Los Angeles]], [[United States of America|USA]], with softball and canoe slalom to be held in [[Oklahoma City]] * [[French Alps 2030|'''2030''': Winter Olympics]], 1 - 17 Feb, multiple locations in the [[French Alps]], plus [[Nice]], [[France]] and [[Turin]], [[Italy]] * [[Brisbane 2032|'''2032''': Summer Olympics]], 23 Jul - 8 Aug, [[Brisbane]], [[Australia]] * [[Salt Lake City–Utah 2034|'''2034''': Winter Olympics]], 10 - 26 Feb, [[Salt Lake City]], [[United States of America|USA]], with other venues scattered around the state of [[Utah]] ===Pacific Games=== * The [http://websites.sportstg.com/assoc_page.cgi?c=2-2642-0-0-0&sID=24021 Pacific Games] among the countries of [[Oceania]] except Australia and New Zealand. * '''2027''': Pīraʻe, [[Tahiti]] ===Pan American Games=== The [http://www.panamsports.org Pan American Games] among the countries of the Americas. * '''2027''': Host and dates TBA. Barranquilla, Colombia had been announced as host, but didn't meet contractual obligations and was stripped of hosting rights in January 2024. ===Southeast Asian Games=== The Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), held every two years in odd-numbered years, among the countries of [[Southeast Asia]]. Features some sports that are only popular in Southeast Asia such as sepak takraw and silat. * '''2025''': 7–19 December, [[Bangkok]], Thailand * '''2027''': [[Kuala Lumpur]], Malaysia * '''2029''': Singapore * '''2031''': Laos * '''2033''': Philippines === Special Olympics=== The [https://www.specialolympics.org Special Olympics] are IOC-sanctioned events for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities. ==== Special Olympics World Summer Games ==== * '''2027''': Dates TBA, [[Perth]], [[Australia]] * '''2031''': Dates TBA, [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] ==== Special Olympics World Winter Games ==== * '''2025''': Dates TBA, [[Turin]] and other venues in the [[Piedmont]] region, [[Italy]] * '''2029''': Dates TBA, [[Chur]] and other venues in the [[Graubünden]] canton, [[Switzerland]] <!-- ===Student Games=== --> ===World Games=== Held every four years in the year after the summer Olympic Games. No events overlap with any contested in the Olympics. Many of the sports are not part of the Olympic program at all; the World Games also feature many non-Olympic disciplines or events within Olympic sports. The events are organized by the International World Games Association, which is recognized by the IOC. * '''2025''': 7–17 July, [[Chengdu]], China ==Events for a single sport== ===American football=== {{main|American football}} ==== National Football League ==== * '''Super Bowl LX''' – 8 February 2026 at Levi's Stadium in [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]], [[California]] (home to the San Francisco 49ers). * '''Super Bowl LXI''' – 14 February 2027 at SoFi Stadium in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Inglewood]], California (home to the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams). * '''Super Bowl LXII''' – Date TBA in February 2028 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in [[Atlanta/Downtown|downtown]] [[Atlanta]], Georgia (home to the Atlanta Falcons). =====NFL International Series===== At least five regular season games, with three in [[London]] (England) and at least two in other countries. The NFL has contracts with two London venues, namely Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The nominal home teams for the 2025 games have been announced (the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley, the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets at Spurs, the Indianapolis Colts in Berlin, the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin). The date for the Dublin game has been announced; other dates are expected to be announced in spring 2025.<!--Following standard US usage, the second team listed is the designated "home" team.--> ======NFL games in Mexico====== The NFL first held a regular season game in Mexico in 2005. Despite good attendance, the league did not return until the 2016 season, the first of what was meant to be a three-year deal to hold one game each season in that country. With both the 2016 and 2017 games selling out, the deal was extended through the 2021 season with an eye to possibly play more than one game per season in future years. All Mexico games thus far have been held in Estadio Azteca in [[Mexico City]]. The most recent Mexico game was in 2022. With Estadio Azteca being renovated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there will be no Mexico games until at least the 2026 season. ======NFL games in Germany====== In February 2022, the NFL announced a four-year agreement to expand the NFL International Series in Germany. The games were originally to be split between the Allianz Arena in Munich and Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt. The first game was held in the 2022 season. With the Mexico game being put on hold due to stadium renovations, there were two Germany games in 2023, both in Frankfurt. The 2024 game was held in Munich with the Carolina Panthers "hosting" and defeating the New York Giants. Berlin is joining the list of Germany hosts, with Olympiastadion set to host its first game at a so-far-undetermined date in 2025. ======NFL games in Brazil====== The NFL announced in November 2023 it would extend its International Series to Brazil. The first game in that country was held on September 6, 2024, with the Philadelphia Eagles "hosting" and defeating the Green Bay Packers at Arena Corinthians in [[São Paulo]]. Another Brazil game will be held on September 5, 2025, again at Arena Corinthians, with the Los Angeles Chargers as "host". ======NFL games in Spain====== Shortly after announcing the expansion to Brazil, the NFL extended the series to Spain. The first game in Spain will be held in 2025 at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in [[Madrid]] with the Miami Dolphins as "host". ======NFL games in Ireland====== The NFL has also extended the series to Ireland, with the first game being "hosted" by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 at Croke Park in [[Dublin]]. ======NFL games in Australia====== In 2026, the NFL expands its "International Series" to Australia, with the first game of the regular season being played at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground with the Los Angeles Rams "hosting". ==== US college football ==== * '''College Football Playoff National Championship''' ** 2026: Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], [[Florida]] (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 19 ** 2027: Allegiant Stadium in [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|Paradise]], [[Nevada]] (home of the Las Vegas Raiders); January 25 ** 2028: Caesars Superdome in [[New Orleans]], [[Louisiana]] (home of the New Orleans Saints); January 24 ** 2029: Raymond James Stadium in [[Tampa]], [[Florida]] (home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers); January 22 ** 2030: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 21 Each of these games is the championship for the previous calendar year. The bulk of the American football season takes place in the northern hemisphere fall/autumn. ====European League of Football==== * '''ELF Championship Game''' – 2025 edition at Neckarstadion (aka MHPArena) in [[Stuttgart]], Germany at a date in September to be determined ====German Football League==== * [http://www.germanbowl.de/ German Bowl] – 2025 host TBA ===Australian rules football=== {{main|Australian rules football}} ====Australian Football League==== * '''2025 AFL Grand Final''' at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground – 27 September ===Badminton=== Badminton is generally most popular in Asia, and Asian countries generally dominate the international tournaments; Denmark is the only non-Asian country to be considered a badminton powerhouse. Although badminton is popularly regarded as a backyard sport in the United States and often played outdoors recreationally, professional badminton is almost always played indoors. The '''[https://bwfworldtour.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour]''' is the premier professional tournament circuit, and is divided into six tiers. The top tier is occupied by a single tournament: the season-concluding '''[https://bwfworldtourfinals.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour Finals]''' in December every year. This is planned to be held in [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] until at least 2026. All BWF World Tour tournaments feature both men's and women's tournaments, as well as a mixed doubles tournament. The next tier is the BWF World Tour Super 1000, comprising the four most important tournaments on the circuit apart from the Finals, offering the largest number of ranking points and amount of prize money. As of 2024, they are as follows: *'''Malaysia Open''' — held in January every year at the Putra Indoor Stadium in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. *'''[https://www.allenglandbadminton.com All England Open]''' — the oldest international badminton tournament in the world, and the most prestigious tournament on the circuit. Held in March every year at the Arena Birmingham in [[Birmingham]]. *'''China Open''' — held in September every year. Since 2018, has been held at the Xincheng Gymnasium in [[Changzhou]]. *'''Indonesia Open''' — held in November every year at the Istora Gelora Bung Karno in [[Jakarta]]. Below that is the BWF World Tour 750, which offer less ranking points and prize money, but generally still attract most of the top players. *'''China Masters''' — held in November at the Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium in [[Shenzhen]]. *'''[https://denmarkopen.dk/ Denmark Open]''' — held in October at the Arena Fyn in [[Odense]]. *'''[https://www.yonexifb.com/uk/home French Open]''' — usually held in October, but the 2024 event was held in March at the Adidas Arena in [[Paris]] as a trial event for the Olympics. *'''[https://daihatsu-japan-open.com/ Japan Open]''' — held in August at the Yokohama Arena in [[Yokohama]]. *'''India Open''' — held in January at the K. D. Jadhav Indoor Hall in [[Delhi]]. *'''Singapore Open''' — held in late May or early June at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]]. The '''[https://bwfworldchampionships.bwfbadminton.com World Championships]''' are held every year except in Olympic years. Badminton has been an Olympic sport since 1992, with the Olympics generally being considered the premier tournament in the sport. There is also the '''Thomas Cup''' for men's national teams, and the '''Uber Cup''' for women's national teams, which mostly operate as multi-level leagues. ===Baseball=== {{seealso|Baseball|Baseball in the United States}} * World Baseball Classic * '''[https://www.seriedelcaribe.net/ Caribbean Series]''' (''Serie del Caribe'') is a championship tournament held in February each year. Champion teams from professional baseball leagues of various Caribbean and Latin American countries compete for the championship. * '''Little League World Series''' – Held over 10 days, ending on the last Sunday of August, in [[Williamsport|South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA]]. ===Basketball=== ====NBA==== {{seealso|Basketball in North America}} ====US college basketball==== The biggest event in US college (university) basketball is the NCAA Division I men's tournament, featuring 68 teams. The Division I women's tournament draws considerably less interest, but is still the biggest event in American women's college sports. The men's tournament begins on the Tuesday preceding the third Thursday in March (in terms of dates, no earlier than March 13 and no later than March 19) in [[Dayton|Dayton, Ohio]] with an eight-team round marketed as the First Four, featuring two games on Tuesday and two on Wednesday. The winners of these four games join the remaining 60 tournament teams for the first round, which starts on the third Thursday in March. The women's tournament expanded from 64 teams to 68 starting in 2022, with its own First Four; it starts the day after the men's tournament. The four-team final rounds of these tournaments are known as the Final Four. Future Final Four sites are: ;Men * 2026 – April 4 and 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in [[Indianapolis]] * 2027 – April 3 and 5 at Ford Field in [[Detroit]] * 2028 – April 1 and 3 at Allegiant Stadium just [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|west]] of the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Las Vegas Strip]] * 2029 – March 31 and April 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis * 2030 – April 6 and 8 at AT&T Stadium in [[Arlington (Texas)|Arlington, Texas]], between [[Dallas]] and [[Fort Worth]] ;Women * 2026 – April 3 and 5 at PHX Arena in [[Phoenix]] * 2027 – April 2 and 4 at Nationwide Arena in [[Columbus|Columbus, Ohio]] * 2028 – March 31 and April 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis * 2029 – March 30 and April 1 at the Alamodome in San Antonio * 2030 – April 5 and 7 at Moda Center in [[Portland (Oregon)|Portland, Oregon]] * 2031 – April 4 and 6 at American Airlines Center in Dallas ====EuroLeague==== The EuroLeague is basketball's equivalent to the UEFA Champions League in association football (soccer), featuring top club teams from throughout Europe (note that in sports, "Europe" includes several countries either partly or totally in Asia, most notably Russia, Turkey, and Israel). The season starts in October and ends with the '''EuroLeague Final Four''' in May. * 2026 – May 22 and 24 in either Athens or Belgrade (site TBA) ===Canadian football=== {{seealso|American football#Canadian Football League}} * '''112th Grey Cup''' at Princess Auto Stadium in [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]] (home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers); November 16, 2025 * '''113th Grey Cup''' at McMahon Stadium in [[Calgary/Northwest|northwest]] [[Calgary]], [[Alberta]] (home of the Calgary Stampeders); November 15, 2026 ===Cricket=== {{main|Cricket}} * '''[https://www.lords.org/lords/our-history/the-ashes The Ashes]''' — November 2025–January 2026 at the following venues in [[Australia]]: ** [[Perth]] Stadium, in the [[Perth/The Suburbs|northern suburb]] of Burswood — 21–25 November 2025 ** The Gabba, in the [[Brisbane]] suburb of Wooloongabba — 4–8 December 2025 ** [[Adelaide]] Oval, in the [[Adelaide/City and North Adelaide|parklands]] between the central business district and North Adelaide — 17–21 December 2025 ** [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground, in Yarra Park in the city's [[Melbourne/Inner east|inner east]] — 26–30 December 2025. The traditional Boxing Day Test at the MCG is one of the sport's most iconic events. ** [[Sydney]] Cricket Ground, in Moore Park in the [[Sydney/City East|inner eastern suburbs]] — 4—8 January 2026 * '''Cricket World Cup''' — October—November 2027, co-hosted by [[South Africa]], [[Zimbabwe]] and [[Namibia]]. ===Cycling=== Road bicycle racing is broadly divided into two race types: * '''Single-day races''' — Exactly as the name implies, these races are held on a single day at around the same time each year. Some have fixed courses; more have fixed starting and end points with courses varying slightly from year to year. The most prestigious races of this type are often called "classics", but the term is poorly defined. * '''Stage races''' — Held over more than one day, with one race each day known as a "stage" (though some races, notably the Grand Tours, will include one or two rest days). While there is an award ceremony at the end of each stage, the overall winner is determined by "general classification"—the cumulative time for the entire race. The most famous road racing events for bicycles in the world are the three stage races known as Grand Tours. They are raced in Italy, France, and Spain but commonly also include legs in other countries. These tours, each featuring 21 stages, involve only men's races, and are even more prestigious than the road cycling events at the Olympics. * '''[https://www.giroditalia.it Giro d'Italia]''' — around Italy, usually takes place in May. * '''[https://www.letour.fr/en/ Tour de France]''' — around France, usually takes place in July. The most prestigious of the three. * '''[https://www.lavuelta.es/en Vuelta a España]''' — around Spain, usually takes place in August. While countless single-day races are run, both throughout Europe and worldwide, the most famous are the five races known as "Monuments", all of which were first held between 1890 and 1915. * '''[[Milan]]–[[Sanremo|San Remo]]''' (Italian: ''Milano–Sanremo'') – The first major classic of the year, usually on the third Saturday of March on a course between the two named locations. It's considered "the sprinters' classic" because its mostly flat course favors that type of rider. * '''Tour of [[Flanders]]''' (Dutch: ''Ronde van Vlaanderen'') – Held in early April through [[Belgium]]'s Flanders region between [[Antwerp]] and [[Oudenaarde]]. The first of the "cobbled classics", with many key sections (including several short but very steep hills) paved in cobblestones. * '''[[Paris]]–[[Roubaix]]''' – Probably ''the'' most famous single-day race, it's known as the "Queen of the Classics" and ''l'Enfer du Nord'' ("The Hell of the North [of France]"). Held one week after the Tour of Flanders, it features even longer stretches of cobblestone roads, making it arguably the hardest single-day race on riders. * '''[[Liège]]–[[Bastogne]]–Liège''' – Held in late April in Belgium, this race is nearly as hard on riders as Paris–Roubaix, but for different reasons, namely a long course with numerous short but steep hills in the [[Ardennes]] region, as well as an uphill finish in Liège. * '''Giro di [[Lombardy|Lombardia]]''' (officially ''Il Lombardia'') – The year's final Monument, held in October over a course that varies from year to year, with only a few fixed locations, most famously the arduous climb to the Madonna del Ghisallo church in Magreglio near Lake Como. The race ends in either [[Bergamo]] or [[Como]]. Known as "the climbers' classic" from its many significant climbs. Cycling is also featured at the Summer Olympics in 4 disciplines; track cycling, road cycling, mountain biking and BMX. With the exception of the men's road cycling discipline, these are generally considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of cycling. <!-- ===Gaelic football=== --> ===Golf=== {{main|Golf}} The most important professional golf tournaments in the world are knowns as the '''majors''', offering the largest amounts of prize money and world ranking points. The men's and women's professional circuits are run separately, with a separate set of majors for each sex. The most important men's professional circuit is the U.S.-based PGA Tour, while the corresponding professional circuit for women is the LPGA Tour, also based in the U.S. The PGA and LPGA also sanction some tournaments outside the U.S., and some tournaments are co-sanctioned by multiple professional circuits. For instance, all the men's majors are co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour, the European Tour and the Japan Golf Tour. Golf was an Olympic sport 1900–1904, and has been one since 2016. The Olympic golf tournament is less prestigious than the majors and offers no prize money, and many of the top male golfers choose to skip it, but the top female golfers usually participate. ====Men's==== ;Major championships Three of the four men's major championships are held in the U.S. The only exception is The Open Championship, also known as the "British Open". Each tournament is played from Thursday through Sunday, barring weather-related delays, and has a fixed weekend on the calendar. Tickets for practice sessions during the days before the tournament starts are also sold. A golfer who wins all four majors in the same calendar year is said to have completed the '''Grand Slam''', which has yet to be achieved (Tiger Woods won all four consecutively, but spanning two calendar years starting from the 2000 U.S. Open to the 2001 Masters Tournament; at the time, the PGA Championship was the year's final major, instead of the second). * '''Masters Tournament''' (always held at Augusta National Golf Club in [[Augusta (Georgia)|Augusta]], [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]) – ends on the second Sunday in April. The next edition is set for 9–12 April 2026. * '''PGA Championship''' – ends on the third Sunday of May; next edition to be held 14–17 May 2026 at Aronimink Golf Club in the [[Philadelphia]] suburb of Newtown Square, [[Pennsylvania]]. ** Sites have been set through 2034, with the exception of 2033. * '''U.S. Open''' – ends on the third Sunday in June; next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in [[Southampton (New York)|Southampton]], New York (near the eastern end of [[Long Island]], about 85 miles/140 km from Midtown Manhattan). ** Sites have been set through 2042, as well as for most subsequent years through 2051. * '''The Open Championship''' – played during the week containing the third Friday in July; next edition to be held 17–20 July 2025 at Royal [[Portrush]] Golf Club in [[County Antrim]], [[Northern Ireland]] (about 60 mi/100 km from [[Belfast]] and 35 mi/60 km from [[Derry|Derry/Londonderry]]. The tournament returns to the historic Old Course at [[St Andrews]] every few years, and is of special significance when it does. ** The 2026 edition will be played at Royal Birkdale in [[Southport]] from 16–19 July. ** The 2027 edition will be held at the Old Course from 15–18 July. ;Other significant events * '''Ryder Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in odd-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2025 – 26–28 September at the Black Course of [[Bethpage]] State Park on [[Long Island]] (about 35 miles/56 km east of Midtown Manhattan) ** 2027 – 17-19 September at [[Adare]] Manor in [[County Limerick]], [[Ireland]] ** 2029 – Dates TBA in September at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota (a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]) *'''Presidents Cup''' (competition between a USA team and an "International" team of non-Europeans) – Held in even-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and a non-European country ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Medinah Country Club in [[Medinah]], [[Illinois]] (a northwest suburb of [[Chicago]]). ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia (a [[Melbourne/South-Eastern suburbs|southeastern suburb]] of [[Melbourne]]). ** 2030 – Dates TBA at Bellerive Country Club in Town and Country, [[Missouri]] (in the West County region of [[St. Louis County]], which borders on the city of [[St. Louis]]). ====Women's==== ;Major championships Three of the five women's major championships are held in the U.S. As with the men's major championships, all are held from Thursday through Sunday (barring weather delays). * '''Chevron Championship''' (held at The Club at Carlton Woods in [[The Woodlands]], Texas, about 30 mi/50 km north of [[Houston]]) – The next edition is expected to be 23–26 April 2026. * '''U.S. Women's Open''' – Next edition to be held 4–7 June 2026 at Riviera Country Club in the [[Los Angeles]] neighborhood of [[Pacific Palisades]]. ** Future sites have been set through 2036, and for several subsequent years through 2048. * '''Women's PGA Championship''' – Next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]. * '''The Evian Championship''' (always held at the Evian Resort Golf Club in [[Evian|Évian-les-Bains]], [[France]]) – Typically held in July, though the dates haven't been consistent from year to year. The next edition will be from 10–13 July 2025. * '''Women's Open Championship''' (aka "Women's British Open") – From 2025, three weeks after the Evian Championship, allowing the tour to go on a European swing. The 2025 edition will be at Royal [[Porthcawl]] Golf Club in Wales from 31 July–3 August. ;Other significant events * '''Solheim Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in even-numbered years (from 2024) in August or September; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, [[Netherlands]] (just south of [['s-Hertogenbosch|Den Bosch]]) ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Valhalla Golf Club in [[Louisville|Louisville, Kentucky]] (slightly less than 20 mi/32 km east of downtown) * '''International Crown''' (team competition involving seven national teams, plus a "World" team made up of players not from one of the preceding seven countries) – From 2023, held in odd-numbered years in October ** 2025 – 23–26 October at New Korea Country Club in [[Goyang]], [[South Korea]] ===Handball=== {{see also|Handball in Europe}} Olympic or team Handball is a fast paced team sport that is mostly played indoors and enjoys considerable popularity in most of continental Europe. The world cup as well as the European championship are major events, second only to soccer. The best national leagues (found in Germany, France and the Nordic countries) battle out a club champion every year. There is also the [http://www.ehfcl.com EHF Champions League] which battles out Europe's top club team every year. === Ice hockey === {{seealso|Ice hockey in North America|Ice hockey in Europe}} ==== Men's ==== ;IIHF Men's World Championship * 2026: 15–31 May, [[Zurich|Zürich]] and [[Fribourg]], [[Switzerland]] * 2027: 14–30 May, [[Düsseldorf]] and [[Mannheim]], [[Germany]] * 2028: 12–28 May, [[Paris]] and [[Lyon]], [[France]] ==== Women's ==== ;IIHF Women's World Championship Since 2022, the top level of the Women's World Championships has been held annually, even in Winter Olympic years. From 1997–2021, the top level was an annual affair, but Winter Olympic years were skipped. * 2026: Host, dates, and sites TBA ===Motor racing=== {{seealso|Motor sport}} ====[[Formula One]]==== See the dedicated article. ====NASCAR==== A U.S. stock car racing organization, and the country's most popular form of motorsport. The term "stock car" is a historic reference; when NASCAR first organized races in the years immediately after World War II, the cars were in fact "stock"—exactly as purchased from dealers, with minimal safety-related changes. Over time, the cars changed to the point that they are only vaguely similar in external appearance to current street vehicles, with much more powerful engines and far more safety equipment. NASCAR now operates three national touring series: * Cup Series, the top series * Xfinity Series, the second level * Craftsman Truck Series, the third level, which races pickup trucks instead of cars; usually called simply the "Truck Series" Most races are held on oval tracks. For many years, no more than one or two Cup Series races were held on road courses, but since 2021 that number has gone up to six. Five Xfinity Series races and three Truck Series are also held on road courses. Before COVID-19, the Truck Series held one race in Canada, but border restrictions led to that date being transferred south of the border, and NASCAR has yet to return any of its U.S. national series to Canada (although it runs a separate Canadian series). The sport used to be centered in the Southeastern U.S., but beginning in the 1990s it expanded to become a national spectacle. A typical NASCAR event spans a long weekend, with two or even all three series holding races at one site. Unlike most sports, NASCAR's biggest event is the ''first'' race of the season: * '''Daytona 500''', held on the day before the Presidents Day holiday (which falls on the third Monday of February) at Daytona International Speedway in [[Daytona Beach]], [[Florida]] ====IndyCar==== A U.S.-based open-wheel racing series. It was established in its current form in 2008, when the IndyCar Series (launched in 1996) merged with the former Champcars series. The merger is a story in itself—as late as the early 1990s, open-wheel racing, governed by a body known as CART (which later became Champcars), was the most popular form of motorsport in the U.S. However, in 1994, the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the series' marquee event, the Indianapolis 500, had a bitter falling-out with CART, leading to the creation of the competing IndyCar series (which took the Indy 500 with it). The feud led many former open-wheel fans to abandon the sport, often for NASCAR. By the time the feud ended, attendance and sponsorship money for the sport were a fraction of what they had been only 15 years earlier, and only in the late 2010s had it begun to recover some of its original prominence. All of the series' races are held in the U.S. except for one on a street course in [[Toronto]]. The tracks are a mixture of ovals, road courses, and street circuits. The series' marquee event, as mentioned above, is: * '''Indianapolis 500''', held the day before the U.S. holiday of Memorial Day (which falls on the last Monday of May) at the [[Indianapolis]] Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana (a community completely surrounded by the city of Indianapolis) ==== Motorcycle speedway ==== Motorcycle speedway is a sport where lightweight motorcycles race each other on an oval-shaped track. It is most popular in [[Poland]] but also has a major presence in [[Australia]], [[Britain]], and [[Sweden]]. ===== Important events ===== *'''Speedway Grand Prix''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's late spring, summer, and early fall. *'''Speedway of Nations''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's summer (usually June or July). ===Rugby=== {{main|Rugby football}} ====Rugby union==== * 2025 '''Rugby Championship''', various locations in [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], and [[South Africa]]. Normally held August–October, with an abbreviated and time-shifted version held in years of the men's Rugby World Cup. * 2025: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to Australia, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in England, 22 August–27 September *** Note that World Rugby, the governing body for union, uses the "Rugby World Cup" name for both its men's and women's championship events. * 2026 '''Six Nations Championship''', February–March: ** [[Cardiff]], Principality Stadium (Millennium Stadium) ** [[Dublin]], Aviva Stadium ** [[Edinburgh]], Scottish Gas Murrayfield ** [[London]], Twickenham Stadium ** [[Rome]], Stadio Olimpico ** [[Saint-Denis (Île-de-France)|Saint-Denis]] ([[Paris]]), Stade de France * 2027 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2029: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to New Zealand, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2031 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in the United States, dates TBA * 2033: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to South Africa, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in the United States, dates TBA ====Rugby sevens==== * '''World Rugby Sevens Series''' and '''World Rugby Women's Sevens Series''': A series of 8 tournaments for national men's and women's sevens teams held at various locations around the world. In the current format, all events see both sexes compete on the same weekend. Marketed as the '''HSBC SVNS''' (with HSBC being the main corporate sponsor). World Rugby has scrapped the former Rugby World Cup Sevens, making the annual SVNS series its effective successor. ** '''[[Dubai]] Sevens''' – The traditional season opener, held on the weekend including the first Saturday in December at a stadium known as The Sevens. ** '''South Africa Sevens''' – Held on the weekend after the Dubai Sevens at [[Cape Town]] Stadium. ** '''Australian Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of January at [[Perth]] Rectangular Stadium (commercially HBF Park). ** '''Canada Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of February at BC Place in [[Vancouver/Yaletown-False Creek|downtown]] [[Vancouver]]. ** '''USA Sevens''' – Held the weekend after the Canada Sevens at Dignity Health Sports Park in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Carson|Carson, California]]. ** '''[[Hong Kong]] Sevens''' – The most famous men's event. Held in early April at Hong Kong Stadium in So Kon Po, in the [[Hong Kong/Eastern District|east]] of Hong Kong Island. ** '''[[Singapore]] Sevens''' – Held in early May at the National Stadium in Kallang, a district just to the [[Singapore/East Coast|northeast]] of the Downtown Core. ** '''[[Madrid]] Sevens''' – The final event, held at Estadio Metropolitano in the city's [[Madrid/Northern Suburbs|northern]] San Blas district. ====Rugby league==== =====National Rugby League===== *'''NRL Grand Final''' – The first or second Saturday of October at the Sydney Cricket Ground, just [[Sydney/Eastern Suburbs|east of the city centre]]. *'''State of Origin''' series – three matches in all in May–July. One match is normally held in the capital city of each state represented: Stadium Australia (aka Accor Stadium) in the [[Sydney/Sydney Olympic Park|Sydney Olympic Park]], and Lang Park (aka Suncorp Stadium) in [[Brisbane]]. The third game rotates between several cities outside New South Wales and Queensland: [[Adelaide]] (Adelaide Oval), [[Melbourne]] (Melbourne Cricket Ground), and [[Perth]] (Perth Stadium, aka Optus Stadium). =====Super League===== *'''Super League Grand Final''' – =====International===== *'''2026 Rugby League World Cup''' - [[France]] ===Soccer=== {{seealso|Association football|Association football in Europe}} ====Men's==== * '''2025''' FIFA U-17 World Cup, 3–27 November in [[Qatar]]. This becomes an annual event starting in 2025, with Qatar confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2025''' FIFA U-20 World Cup, 27 September–19 October in several cities in [[Chile]] (final most likely in [[Santiago]]) * '''2026''' FIFA World Cup in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], and [[Mexico]]; 11 June–19 July (final in [[East Rutherford]], New Jersey, near New York City) ====Women's==== * '''2025''' [https://www.fifa.com/u17womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, 17 October–8 November in [[Morocco]]. Starting in 2025, this becomes an annual event, with Morocco confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2026''' [https://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup],{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} 5–27 September in [[Poland]] * '''2027''' FIFA Women's World Cup in [[Brazil]], 24 June–25 July ===Table tennis=== [[China]] has been the world's dominant force in table tennis since at least the 1980s, so it comes as no surprise that the '''China Table Tennis Super League''' (CTTSL) is one of the best tournaments in the world, featuring not only the best players from all over China, but several top international players as well. The main international professional circuit is known as '''[https://worldtabletennis.com/ World Table Tennis]''' (WTT), of which the top level is known as the '''WTT Series'''. The most important WTT Series tournaments, offering the most world ranking points and prize money, are known as the '''Grand Smashes''', of which there are three, as of 2024: *'''[https://www.singaporesmash.com Singapore Smash]''' — held in March at the Singapore Sports Hub in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]] *'''[https://www.saudismash.com Saudi Smash]''' — held in May at King Abdullah Sports City in [[Jeddah]] *'''China Smash''' — held in late September and early October at Shougang Park in [[Beijing]] The season-concluding tournament of the WTT Series is the '''WTT Finals''', featuring the top 16 singles players and top 8 doubles pairs of each sex. The 2024 WTT Finals will be held from 20-24 November at the [[Kitakyushu]] General Gymnasium. Table tennis is also contested at the Summer Olympics, which is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport. The table tennis event at the Olympics consists of men's and women's singles, men's and women's teams, and a mixed doubles event. There is also the annual '''World Table Tennis Championships''', which is contested between individuals and doubles pairs in odd years, and between national teams in even years. ===Tennis=== ''See also [[Tennis]].'' Tennis has events throughout the calendar year. The top-level men's tour is the ATP Tour, with the WTA Tour as the women's counterpart. The men's and women's tours come together for the four '''Grand Slam''' events and a few other select tournaments throughout the year. The only players to have ever completed the Grand Slam are Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 & 1969) in the men's event, and Maureen Connolly (1953), Margaret Court (1970) and Steffi Graf (1988) in the women's event. In addition to these, the '''[https://www.daviscup.com/ Davis Cup]''' for men and '''[https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/ Billie Jean King Cup]''' (known as the Fed Cup until 2020) for women are the top events for national teams; these operate as multi-level leagues. The top levels (now known as the "Finals" in both events) were traditionally conducted as knockout tournaments, but now use a format similar to that of the FIFA World Cup, with all qualifying nations meeting at a single site for a group stage followed by a knockout stage. A player who wins all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year is said to have completed a '''golden slam''', and the only able-bodied player to have done so to date was Germany's Steffi Graf in 1988. (The doubles partnership of American identical twins Bob and Mike Bryan, aka the Bryan Brothers, won all of the required events consecutively, but their streak started with the 2012 Olympics, thus spanning two calendar years. Two wheelchair tennis players have completed the calendar-year golden slam, with their version replacing the able-bodied Olympics with the Paralympic Games.) At the professional level, tennis court surfaces can be divided into three types: grass, clay and hard. Each of these surfaces has a different bounce profile for the ball, thus favouring different playing styles. While all professional tennis players are competent on all three surfaces, some players are known to excel on particular surfaces; for instance, Rafael Nadal was known for his excellence on clay courts during his prime, while Roger Federer was well-known for his prowess on grass courts. Most ATP and WTA events feature both singles and doubles tournaments, with Grand Slams and the Olympics also featuring a mixed doubles tournament. ====Grand Slam events==== All four of these events are held over two weeks (15 days of play at all events except Wimbledon, still at 14). They are considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of tennis, and are even more prestigious than the Olympics. * '''[https://ausopen.com/ Australian Open]''': Ends on the last Sunday in January at [[Melbourne]] Park just outside the city centre. Frequently suffers from hot and humid weather in the southern summer, although this has been alleviated by retractable roofs on the three main courts. The final is held in the Rod Laver Arena, which is named after Rod Laver, the only player to have completed a grand slam twice, and the last man to achieve the feat when he did so in 1969. Has been played on hard courts since 1988. * '''[https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/ French Open]''' (also known as ''Roland Garros''): Held in late May and early June at ''Stade Roland Garros'' in the Bois de Boulogne in the [[Paris/16th arrondissement|16th arondissement]] of [[Paris]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event still held on clay courts. * '''[https://www.wimbledon.com/ Wimbledon]''': Begins on the first Monday in July and ends on the second Sunday following at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in the [[London/Wimbledon|Wimbledon]] neighbourhood of southwest [[London]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event held on grass courts, requiring all players to dress only in white (though women are now allowed to wear colored underwear to better hide menstruation), and many other traditions. The oldest and most prestigious of the Grand Slams. * '''[https://www.usopen.org/ US Open]''': Begins in August, on the Sunday that precedes the weekend of the US holiday of Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September. Ends on the Sunday following Labor Day. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in the northern part of the [[New York City]] borough of [[Queens]]. Has been played on hard courts since 1978. ====Season-ending championships==== Both the ATP and WTA have season-ending events for the very top players, with eight players qualifying for the finals in singles and eight teams in doubles. The competitors are divided into two groups of four, each playing a round-robin within the group. The top two finishers in each group advance to the semifinals, with the winners of each semifinal contesting the final. * '''[https://www.nittoatpfinals.com/en ATP Finals]''': Mid-November at Pala Alpitour (aka Palasport Olimpico) in [[Turin]], Italy. * '''[https://www.wtatennis.com/wta-finals WTA Finals]''': Late October–early November in [[Riyadh]], Saudi Arabia. In the mid-2010s, the WTA Tour launched the '''WTA Elite Trophy''', a second season-ending event for players immediately below those who qualify for the WTA Finals. It was suspended because Covid-19 from 2020 to 2020.. ====Other top-tier events==== Both the ATP and WTA have a multi-level hierarchy of events, with the Grand Slams at the top, followed by the season-ending championships and then the events shown here (with other levels below these in both cases). The two tours have differing terminology for this level: * ATP: Nine events known as the "ATP Tour Masters 1000". All top players are required to enter these events (barring injury or other misfortune), with the exception of the Monte-Carlo Masters. * WTA: The "WTA 1000" was established in 2021 by the merger of the former "Premier Mandatory" and "Premier 5" events. Since 2024, there have been ten WTA 1000 tournaments, all of which are mandatory. * Olympics: The tennis event at the Olympics is less prestigious than the Grand Slams, and many top players choose to skip it, while those who compete often do not take it seriously and lose to little-known lower-ranked opponents. Moreover, the Olympics typically falls in the middle of the U.S. hard court season, meaning that players miss important tournaments and lose valuable ranking points in their quest to qualify for the season-ending championships should they choose to participate. That said, there is a special prestige attached to winning all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in a single calendar year, known as a golden slam. Unlike in the professional circuits, doubles pairs at the Olympics must be from the same country. With that in mind, here are the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events: * '''[[Qatar]] Ladies Open''': Mid-February at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in [[Doha]]. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Dubai]] Tennis Championships''': Late February at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour also plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''Indian Wells Masters''' (men) and '''Indian Wells Open''' (women): Early March in [[Indian Wells]], California (near Palm Springs). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Miami Open''': Late March–early April at Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], Florida (north of the city of Miami). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Monte-Carlo Masters''': Mid-April at Monte Carlo Country Club in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, next to Monaco. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Madrid]] Open''': Mid-May at Caja Mágica in Madrid. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Italian Open''': Week following the Madrid Open at Foro Italico in Rome. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Canadian Open''': Early August at Stade IGA in Montreal and Sobeys Stadium (formerly Aviva Centre) in Toronto. In odd-numbered years, the men play in Montreal and the women in Toronto, and vice versa in even-numbered years. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Cincinnati Masters''' (men) and '''Cincinnati Open''' (women): Week after the Canadian Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in [[Mason (Ohio)|Mason, Ohio]], northeast of [[Cincinnati]]. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Wuhan]] Open''': Last week of September at Optics Valley International Tennis Center. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''China Open''': Start of October, immediately following the Wuhan Open, at the National Tennis Center in [[Beijing]]. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''[[Shanghai]] Masters''': Week after the China Open at Qi Zhong Stadium in the southwest of the city. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Paris]] Masters''': Late October–early November at AccorHotels Arena in the [[Paris/12th arrondissement|12th arrondissement]]. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' The Grand Slams, tour finals and ATP Masters 1000/WTA 1000 tournaments are collectively known as the '''Big Titles'''. Serbia's Novak Djokovic is the only singles player of either sex to have won all the Big Titles in the course of his career, and was said to have "completed the game of tennis" by adding the Olympic gold medal to those in 2024. Three other men's players, all retired, have won all of the Big Titles in doubles—Canadian Daniel Nestor as an individual, and the aforementioned Bryan Brothers as a team. All also have Olympic gold medals in doubles. Djokovic and the Bryans have also been on national teams that won the Davis Cup. ==Stay safe== Take precautions typical for [[Stay safe#Mass gatherings|large crowds]] and major events, with risk factors such as [[pickpocketing]], [[infectious diseases]], drunk brawls and stampedes. '''Hooliganism''' is organized violence associated with sport fandom, in particular prevalent in [[association football in Europe|men's football in Europe]]. The risk of hooliganism differs between countries and teams, and might be difficult to assess from a neutral source. {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Sports}} h6xwp234r7bawpvl6f98a1owojvnjnk 5090946 5090945 2025-07-10T16:28:10Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Jeux de la Francophonie */ 5090946 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|MalmöFF Fans banner.jpg|caption=Fans of Malmö FF, a Swedish football team}} '''Spectator sports''' are those where the players are greatly outnumbered by their audience, often a thousandfold and sometimes a millionfold for the biggest events. These usually involve travel, often long-distance, so there is a distinct experience of sports travel for those crowds, covered on this page. See [[Sports]] for those you participate in yourself, watched (if at all) by a few family members or ex-players. See [[Activities]] for the broader sphere of mostly non-competitive pastimes such as bird-watching. == Understand == [[File:Olympic Torch 2010.jpg | thumb | 300px | Lighting the Olympic flame from the sun]] Spectator sports have a long history: in the western tradition this is exemplified by the ancient Olympic Games. But mass travelling audiences only emerged in the 19th century, with the development of leisure time, disposable income, and public transport. Indeed the Olympics are a 19th-century reinvention, with the ancient event lapsing around 400 AD and the modern version launching in Athens in 1896. In the 19th and 20th centuries, three tribes emerged: an elite of professional players, an audience watching them direct or on TV or internet, and the "grassroots" playing at amateur or junior level. Of course there is overlap, but the stark feature today is how different those worlds have become; certainly their travel experiences could not be more different. The divergence caused great soul-searching in sports associations, and sometimes acrimonious splits. It's no spoiler to say that big money and big business won, and spectator sports are designed to extract their followers' cash not only by gate receipts, but by advertising and sponsorship, by merchandising, by broadcasting rights, and by gambling. Spectator sports are also a matter of national prestige and policy: countries market themselves as sports destination, and by "sports-washing" deflect attention from their unattractive regimes. The live audience for big events is nowadays greatly outnumbered by TV and internet viewers, and developments in virtual reality promise to take this further. But for the time being, the crowd is essential to the event. They descend in partisan masses upon the host city, throng the pubs and transport hubs, and book up accommodation. Their chants and slogans, team regalia, cheers and boos, all create an intense atmosphere. Alcohol-fuelled violence has too often been a by-product. Early spectators simply milled around the playing area, craning to see the action. It's still like that in golf, where crowds follow their favourite player from hole to hole, and in on-road races for cycling and motor sports where the biggest audience is close to the finish line but people find vantage points all along the way. Larger crowds made this unmanageable for most sports, so embankments then stadiums were built: modern examples are huge and architecturally exciting. Stadiums may be multi-purpose or dedicated to one sport, and a big division is between those for ball games, and those incorporating a running track, which makes them suitable for Olympics but distances the crowd. They may be "borrowed" for events, for instance international rugby matches may use a soccer stadium simply for extra capacity. The upkeep of a stadium (even a small one) is usually part-financed by a sponsorship deal, so they change their names for the length of the deal, sometimes just for a specific event. Signage on streets and public transport can't keep up with this so be sure to check not only which stadium you're going to, but any other names it's locally known by. Every big city has a sports or other mass event at least once a week, so they are well-practised in signage, stewarding and crowd safety, extra and diverted transport, and policing. See individual city pages for accommodation, and other things to see and do there. See [[Events]] for the very largest, which embroil entire countries for days on end. These draw a travelling army of fans following their teams from city to city as the tournament progresses, so even if you don't plan to attend, you have to factor the event into your travel plans. ==Articles about watching sports== <div style="{{column-width|25em}}"> * [[Spectator sports in Japan]] * [[American football]] * [[Association football]] ** [[Association football in Europe]] * [[Australian rules football]] * [[Baseball]] ** [[Baseball in the United States]] * [[Basketball in North America]] * [[Boxing]] * [[Bullfighting]] * [[Cricket]] * [[Field hockey]] * [[Formula One]] * [[Golf]] * [[Handball in Europe]] * [[Horse racing]] * [[Ice hockey in Europe]] * [[Ice hockey in North America]] * [[Martial arts]] * [[Motorcycle speedway]] * [[Olympic Games]] * [[Rugby football]] * [[Tennis]] </div> ==Events with multiple sports== ===African Games === The African Games are held among the countries of Africa. * '''2027''': [[Cairo]], Egypt, 20 January–7 February. * '''2031''': [[Kinshasa]], DR Congo (dates TBA). ===Asian Games=== The [http://www.ocasia.org Asian Games]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} among the countries of Asia; the second largest multi-sports games after the Summer Olympics. Features some sports that are popular in Asia but not contested at the Olympics such as wushu (Chinese martial arts), kabbadi, sepak takraw and dragon boat racing, as well as some globally-popular non-Olympic sports such as tenpin bowling and squash. The Asian Games also have added several popular esports as official medal events. The Winter Asian Games are operated by the same body but feature only winter sports. Normally held in the year before the Winter Olympics. * '''2026''': 19 September–4 October, [[Nagoya]], [[Japan]] * '''2030''': [[Doha]], [[Qatar]] * '''2034''': [[Riyadh]], [[Saudi Arabia]] <!-- ===Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games=== --> ===Bolivarian Games=== * '''2025''': November 23 to December 7 in [[Ayacucho]] and [[Lima]], [[Peru]] ===Central American Games === The Central American Games, only involving the seven nations of [[Central America]]. * '''2025''': 15–31 October, [[Guatemala City]], Guatemala ===Central America and Caribbean Games === The [https://inside.fei.org/fei/games/cont-reg-games/central-american-caribbean Central America and Caribbean Games] — the second oldest international multi-sport games. * '''2026''': Dates TBA, [[Santo Domingo]], [[Dominican Republic]] ===Commonwealth Games=== The [https://www.commonwealthsport.com Commonwealth Games] among the countries of the [[British Empire#Commonwealth countries|Commonwealth of Nations]]; the fourth-largest multi-sports games. Unlike other multi-sport events, para-sports events are held as part of the main games with the able-bodied sports events. Features some non-Olympic sports that are popular in the Commonwealth such as lawn bowls, squash and netball. [[England]], [[Scotland]], [[Wales]] and [[Northern Ireland]] send separate teams to the Commonwealth Games, in contrast to the Olympics where they send a unified [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]] team. The next games in 2026 had been scheduled for the Australian state of Victoria, but the state government pulled out in July 2023, citing financial concerns. [[Glasgow]], Scotland was announced as the new host in September 2024; the 2026 games will be considerably scaled down from past editions, with only 10 sports and no athletes' village. === Deaflympics=== The [https://www.deaflympics.com Deaflympics] is an IOC-sanctioned event for athletes with hearing impairments. Although the sports are largely the same as the Olympics, modifications are made to not rely on sounds such as starter's guns, spoken commands or referee whistles. Separate summer and winter games are held. * '''2025 Summer Deaflympics''': 15–26 November in [[Tokyo]], Japan ===European Games=== The [http://www.european-games.org/ European Games] among [[Europe]]an countries. The newest continental-level multi-sport event, with its first edition in 2015. Also in the year before the Summer Olympics. * '''2027''' in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]; dates TBA ===Gay Games=== The [https://www.gaygames.org Gay Games] attract mostly LGBT athletes, though are open to all. * '''2026''': 27 June to 4 July [[Valencia]], [[Spain]] * '''2030''': Host to be announced in November 2025 ===Jeux de la Francophonie=== [https://www.jeux.francophonie.org Jeux de la Francophonie] among the countries of La Francophonie. The Canadian provinces of [[Quebec]] and [[New Brunswick]] send separate teams from the Canadian team, and the Belgian team is restricted to sending Francophone athletes. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. *'''2027''': July 23 to August 1, [[Yerevan]], Armenia ===National Games of China=== The National Games of China a multi-sport competition between [[China]]'s [[Chinese provinces and regions|provincial level units]], including [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], as well as teams representing the Chinese military and various Chinese industry groups. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. The standards of the diving and table tennis competitions in particular are regarded by most to be even higher than the Olympics. * '''2025''': [[Guangdong]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] <!-- ===Lusofonia Games=== The [http://www.acolop.org/ Lusofonia Games] among the world's Portuguese-speaking countries. Last held in 2014. ===Mediterranean Games=== --> === Maccabiah Games=== The [https://www.maccabiah.com/en/ Maccabiah Games] for Jewish athletes from 85 nations, and Israelis regardless of ethnicity or religion, are the third-largest multi-sports event by number of competitors after the Summer Olympics and Asian Games. Always held in Israel. * '''2025''': July, Israel ===Olympic Games=== {{main|Olympic Games}} * [[Milan–Cortina 2026|'''2026''': Winter Olympics]], 6 – 22 Feb, [[Milan]] and [[Cortina d'Ampezzo|Cortina]], [[Italy]] * [[Los Angeles 2028|'''2028''': Summer Olympics]], 21 Jul - 6 Aug, [[Los Angeles]], [[United States of America|USA]], with softball and canoe slalom to be held in [[Oklahoma City]] * [[French Alps 2030|'''2030''': Winter Olympics]], 1 - 17 Feb, multiple locations in the [[French Alps]], plus [[Nice]], [[France]] and [[Turin]], [[Italy]] * [[Brisbane 2032|'''2032''': Summer Olympics]], 23 Jul - 8 Aug, [[Brisbane]], [[Australia]] * [[Salt Lake City–Utah 2034|'''2034''': Winter Olympics]], 10 - 26 Feb, [[Salt Lake City]], [[United States of America|USA]], with other venues scattered around the state of [[Utah]] ===Pacific Games=== * The [http://websites.sportstg.com/assoc_page.cgi?c=2-2642-0-0-0&sID=24021 Pacific Games] among the countries of [[Oceania]] except Australia and New Zealand. * '''2027''': Pīraʻe, [[Tahiti]] ===Pan American Games=== The [http://www.panamsports.org Pan American Games] among the countries of the Americas. * '''2027''': Host and dates TBA. Barranquilla, Colombia had been announced as host, but didn't meet contractual obligations and was stripped of hosting rights in January 2024. ===Southeast Asian Games=== The Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), held every two years in odd-numbered years, among the countries of [[Southeast Asia]]. Features some sports that are only popular in Southeast Asia such as sepak takraw and silat. * '''2025''': 7–19 December, [[Bangkok]], Thailand * '''2027''': [[Kuala Lumpur]], Malaysia * '''2029''': Singapore * '''2031''': Laos * '''2033''': Philippines === Special Olympics=== The [https://www.specialolympics.org Special Olympics] are IOC-sanctioned events for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities. ==== Special Olympics World Summer Games ==== * '''2027''': Dates TBA, [[Perth]], [[Australia]] * '''2031''': Dates TBA, [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] ==== Special Olympics World Winter Games ==== * '''2025''': Dates TBA, [[Turin]] and other venues in the [[Piedmont]] region, [[Italy]] * '''2029''': Dates TBA, [[Chur]] and other venues in the [[Graubünden]] canton, [[Switzerland]] <!-- ===Student Games=== --> ===World Games=== Held every four years in the year after the summer Olympic Games. No events overlap with any contested in the Olympics. Many of the sports are not part of the Olympic program at all; the World Games also feature many non-Olympic disciplines or events within Olympic sports. The events are organized by the International World Games Association, which is recognized by the IOC. * '''2025''': 7–17 July, [[Chengdu]], China ==Events for a single sport== ===American football=== {{main|American football}} ==== National Football League ==== * '''Super Bowl LX''' – 8 February 2026 at Levi's Stadium in [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]], [[California]] (home to the San Francisco 49ers). * '''Super Bowl LXI''' – 14 February 2027 at SoFi Stadium in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Inglewood]], California (home to the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams). * '''Super Bowl LXII''' – Date TBA in February 2028 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in [[Atlanta/Downtown|downtown]] [[Atlanta]], Georgia (home to the Atlanta Falcons). =====NFL International Series===== At least five regular season games, with three in [[London]] (England) and at least two in other countries. The NFL has contracts with two London venues, namely Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The nominal home teams for the 2025 games have been announced (the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley, the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets at Spurs, the Indianapolis Colts in Berlin, the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin). The date for the Dublin game has been announced; other dates are expected to be announced in spring 2025.<!--Following standard US usage, the second team listed is the designated "home" team.--> ======NFL games in Mexico====== The NFL first held a regular season game in Mexico in 2005. Despite good attendance, the league did not return until the 2016 season, the first of what was meant to be a three-year deal to hold one game each season in that country. With both the 2016 and 2017 games selling out, the deal was extended through the 2021 season with an eye to possibly play more than one game per season in future years. All Mexico games thus far have been held in Estadio Azteca in [[Mexico City]]. The most recent Mexico game was in 2022. With Estadio Azteca being renovated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there will be no Mexico games until at least the 2026 season. ======NFL games in Germany====== In February 2022, the NFL announced a four-year agreement to expand the NFL International Series in Germany. The games were originally to be split between the Allianz Arena in Munich and Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt. The first game was held in the 2022 season. With the Mexico game being put on hold due to stadium renovations, there were two Germany games in 2023, both in Frankfurt. The 2024 game was held in Munich with the Carolina Panthers "hosting" and defeating the New York Giants. Berlin is joining the list of Germany hosts, with Olympiastadion set to host its first game at a so-far-undetermined date in 2025. ======NFL games in Brazil====== The NFL announced in November 2023 it would extend its International Series to Brazil. The first game in that country was held on September 6, 2024, with the Philadelphia Eagles "hosting" and defeating the Green Bay Packers at Arena Corinthians in [[São Paulo]]. Another Brazil game will be held on September 5, 2025, again at Arena Corinthians, with the Los Angeles Chargers as "host". ======NFL games in Spain====== Shortly after announcing the expansion to Brazil, the NFL extended the series to Spain. The first game in Spain will be held in 2025 at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in [[Madrid]] with the Miami Dolphins as "host". ======NFL games in Ireland====== The NFL has also extended the series to Ireland, with the first game being "hosted" by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 at Croke Park in [[Dublin]]. ======NFL games in Australia====== In 2026, the NFL expands its "International Series" to Australia, with the first game of the regular season being played at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground with the Los Angeles Rams "hosting". ==== US college football ==== * '''College Football Playoff National Championship''' ** 2026: Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], [[Florida]] (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 19 ** 2027: Allegiant Stadium in [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|Paradise]], [[Nevada]] (home of the Las Vegas Raiders); January 25 ** 2028: Caesars Superdome in [[New Orleans]], [[Louisiana]] (home of the New Orleans Saints); January 24 ** 2029: Raymond James Stadium in [[Tampa]], [[Florida]] (home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers); January 22 ** 2030: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 21 Each of these games is the championship for the previous calendar year. The bulk of the American football season takes place in the northern hemisphere fall/autumn. ====European League of Football==== * '''ELF Championship Game''' – 2025 edition at Neckarstadion (aka MHPArena) in [[Stuttgart]], Germany at a date in September to be determined ====German Football League==== * [http://www.germanbowl.de/ German Bowl] – 2025 host TBA ===Australian rules football=== {{main|Australian rules football}} ====Australian Football League==== * '''2025 AFL Grand Final''' at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground – 27 September ===Badminton=== Badminton is generally most popular in Asia, and Asian countries generally dominate the international tournaments; Denmark is the only non-Asian country to be considered a badminton powerhouse. Although badminton is popularly regarded as a backyard sport in the United States and often played outdoors recreationally, professional badminton is almost always played indoors. The '''[https://bwfworldtour.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour]''' is the premier professional tournament circuit, and is divided into six tiers. The top tier is occupied by a single tournament: the season-concluding '''[https://bwfworldtourfinals.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour Finals]''' in December every year. This is planned to be held in [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] until at least 2026. All BWF World Tour tournaments feature both men's and women's tournaments, as well as a mixed doubles tournament. The next tier is the BWF World Tour Super 1000, comprising the four most important tournaments on the circuit apart from the Finals, offering the largest number of ranking points and amount of prize money. As of 2024, they are as follows: *'''Malaysia Open''' — held in January every year at the Putra Indoor Stadium in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. *'''[https://www.allenglandbadminton.com All England Open]''' — the oldest international badminton tournament in the world, and the most prestigious tournament on the circuit. Held in March every year at the Arena Birmingham in [[Birmingham]]. *'''China Open''' — held in September every year. Since 2018, has been held at the Xincheng Gymnasium in [[Changzhou]]. *'''Indonesia Open''' — held in November every year at the Istora Gelora Bung Karno in [[Jakarta]]. Below that is the BWF World Tour 750, which offer less ranking points and prize money, but generally still attract most of the top players. *'''China Masters''' — held in November at the Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium in [[Shenzhen]]. *'''[https://denmarkopen.dk/ Denmark Open]''' — held in October at the Arena Fyn in [[Odense]]. *'''[https://www.yonexifb.com/uk/home French Open]''' — usually held in October, but the 2024 event was held in March at the Adidas Arena in [[Paris]] as a trial event for the Olympics. *'''[https://daihatsu-japan-open.com/ Japan Open]''' — held in August at the Yokohama Arena in [[Yokohama]]. *'''India Open''' — held in January at the K. D. Jadhav Indoor Hall in [[Delhi]]. *'''Singapore Open''' — held in late May or early June at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]]. The '''[https://bwfworldchampionships.bwfbadminton.com World Championships]''' are held every year except in Olympic years. Badminton has been an Olympic sport since 1992, with the Olympics generally being considered the premier tournament in the sport. There is also the '''Thomas Cup''' for men's national teams, and the '''Uber Cup''' for women's national teams, which mostly operate as multi-level leagues. ===Baseball=== {{seealso|Baseball|Baseball in the United States}} * World Baseball Classic * '''[https://www.seriedelcaribe.net/ Caribbean Series]''' (''Serie del Caribe'') is a championship tournament held in February each year. Champion teams from professional baseball leagues of various Caribbean and Latin American countries compete for the championship. * '''Little League World Series''' – Held over 10 days, ending on the last Sunday of August, in [[Williamsport|South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA]]. ===Basketball=== ====NBA==== {{seealso|Basketball in North America}} ====US college basketball==== The biggest event in US college (university) basketball is the NCAA Division I men's tournament, featuring 68 teams. The Division I women's tournament draws considerably less interest, but is still the biggest event in American women's college sports. The men's tournament begins on the Tuesday preceding the third Thursday in March (in terms of dates, no earlier than March 13 and no later than March 19) in [[Dayton|Dayton, Ohio]] with an eight-team round marketed as the First Four, featuring two games on Tuesday and two on Wednesday. The winners of these four games join the remaining 60 tournament teams for the first round, which starts on the third Thursday in March. The women's tournament expanded from 64 teams to 68 starting in 2022, with its own First Four; it starts the day after the men's tournament. The four-team final rounds of these tournaments are known as the Final Four. Future Final Four sites are: ;Men * 2026 – April 4 and 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in [[Indianapolis]] * 2027 – April 3 and 5 at Ford Field in [[Detroit]] * 2028 – April 1 and 3 at Allegiant Stadium just [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|west]] of the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Las Vegas Strip]] * 2029 – March 31 and April 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis * 2030 – April 6 and 8 at AT&T Stadium in [[Arlington (Texas)|Arlington, Texas]], between [[Dallas]] and [[Fort Worth]] ;Women * 2026 – April 3 and 5 at PHX Arena in [[Phoenix]] * 2027 – April 2 and 4 at Nationwide Arena in [[Columbus|Columbus, Ohio]] * 2028 – March 31 and April 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis * 2029 – March 30 and April 1 at the Alamodome in San Antonio * 2030 – April 5 and 7 at Moda Center in [[Portland (Oregon)|Portland, Oregon]] * 2031 – April 4 and 6 at American Airlines Center in Dallas ====EuroLeague==== The EuroLeague is basketball's equivalent to the UEFA Champions League in association football (soccer), featuring top club teams from throughout Europe (note that in sports, "Europe" includes several countries either partly or totally in Asia, most notably Russia, Turkey, and Israel). The season starts in October and ends with the '''EuroLeague Final Four''' in May. * 2026 – May 22 and 24 in either Athens or Belgrade (site TBA) ===Canadian football=== {{seealso|American football#Canadian Football League}} * '''112th Grey Cup''' at Princess Auto Stadium in [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]] (home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers); November 16, 2025 * '''113th Grey Cup''' at McMahon Stadium in [[Calgary/Northwest|northwest]] [[Calgary]], [[Alberta]] (home of the Calgary Stampeders); November 15, 2026 ===Cricket=== {{main|Cricket}} * '''[https://www.lords.org/lords/our-history/the-ashes The Ashes]''' — November 2025–January 2026 at the following venues in [[Australia]]: ** [[Perth]] Stadium, in the [[Perth/The Suburbs|northern suburb]] of Burswood — 21–25 November 2025 ** The Gabba, in the [[Brisbane]] suburb of Wooloongabba — 4–8 December 2025 ** [[Adelaide]] Oval, in the [[Adelaide/City and North Adelaide|parklands]] between the central business district and North Adelaide — 17–21 December 2025 ** [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground, in Yarra Park in the city's [[Melbourne/Inner east|inner east]] — 26–30 December 2025. The traditional Boxing Day Test at the MCG is one of the sport's most iconic events. ** [[Sydney]] Cricket Ground, in Moore Park in the [[Sydney/City East|inner eastern suburbs]] — 4—8 January 2026 * '''Cricket World Cup''' — October—November 2027, co-hosted by [[South Africa]], [[Zimbabwe]] and [[Namibia]]. ===Cycling=== Road bicycle racing is broadly divided into two race types: * '''Single-day races''' — Exactly as the name implies, these races are held on a single day at around the same time each year. Some have fixed courses; more have fixed starting and end points with courses varying slightly from year to year. The most prestigious races of this type are often called "classics", but the term is poorly defined. * '''Stage races''' — Held over more than one day, with one race each day known as a "stage" (though some races, notably the Grand Tours, will include one or two rest days). While there is an award ceremony at the end of each stage, the overall winner is determined by "general classification"—the cumulative time for the entire race. The most famous road racing events for bicycles in the world are the three stage races known as Grand Tours. They are raced in Italy, France, and Spain but commonly also include legs in other countries. These tours, each featuring 21 stages, involve only men's races, and are even more prestigious than the road cycling events at the Olympics. * '''[https://www.giroditalia.it Giro d'Italia]''' — around Italy, usually takes place in May. * '''[https://www.letour.fr/en/ Tour de France]''' — around France, usually takes place in July. The most prestigious of the three. * '''[https://www.lavuelta.es/en Vuelta a España]''' — around Spain, usually takes place in August. While countless single-day races are run, both throughout Europe and worldwide, the most famous are the five races known as "Monuments", all of which were first held between 1890 and 1915. * '''[[Milan]]–[[Sanremo|San Remo]]''' (Italian: ''Milano–Sanremo'') – The first major classic of the year, usually on the third Saturday of March on a course between the two named locations. It's considered "the sprinters' classic" because its mostly flat course favors that type of rider. * '''Tour of [[Flanders]]''' (Dutch: ''Ronde van Vlaanderen'') – Held in early April through [[Belgium]]'s Flanders region between [[Antwerp]] and [[Oudenaarde]]. The first of the "cobbled classics", with many key sections (including several short but very steep hills) paved in cobblestones. * '''[[Paris]]–[[Roubaix]]''' – Probably ''the'' most famous single-day race, it's known as the "Queen of the Classics" and ''l'Enfer du Nord'' ("The Hell of the North [of France]"). Held one week after the Tour of Flanders, it features even longer stretches of cobblestone roads, making it arguably the hardest single-day race on riders. * '''[[Liège]]–[[Bastogne]]–Liège''' – Held in late April in Belgium, this race is nearly as hard on riders as Paris–Roubaix, but for different reasons, namely a long course with numerous short but steep hills in the [[Ardennes]] region, as well as an uphill finish in Liège. * '''Giro di [[Lombardy|Lombardia]]''' (officially ''Il Lombardia'') – The year's final Monument, held in October over a course that varies from year to year, with only a few fixed locations, most famously the arduous climb to the Madonna del Ghisallo church in Magreglio near Lake Como. The race ends in either [[Bergamo]] or [[Como]]. Known as "the climbers' classic" from its many significant climbs. Cycling is also featured at the Summer Olympics in 4 disciplines; track cycling, road cycling, mountain biking and BMX. With the exception of the men's road cycling discipline, these are generally considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of cycling. <!-- ===Gaelic football=== --> ===Golf=== {{main|Golf}} The most important professional golf tournaments in the world are knowns as the '''majors''', offering the largest amounts of prize money and world ranking points. The men's and women's professional circuits are run separately, with a separate set of majors for each sex. The most important men's professional circuit is the U.S.-based PGA Tour, while the corresponding professional circuit for women is the LPGA Tour, also based in the U.S. The PGA and LPGA also sanction some tournaments outside the U.S., and some tournaments are co-sanctioned by multiple professional circuits. For instance, all the men's majors are co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour, the European Tour and the Japan Golf Tour. Golf was an Olympic sport 1900–1904, and has been one since 2016. The Olympic golf tournament is less prestigious than the majors and offers no prize money, and many of the top male golfers choose to skip it, but the top female golfers usually participate. ====Men's==== ;Major championships Three of the four men's major championships are held in the U.S. The only exception is The Open Championship, also known as the "British Open". Each tournament is played from Thursday through Sunday, barring weather-related delays, and has a fixed weekend on the calendar. Tickets for practice sessions during the days before the tournament starts are also sold. A golfer who wins all four majors in the same calendar year is said to have completed the '''Grand Slam''', which has yet to be achieved (Tiger Woods won all four consecutively, but spanning two calendar years starting from the 2000 U.S. Open to the 2001 Masters Tournament; at the time, the PGA Championship was the year's final major, instead of the second). * '''Masters Tournament''' (always held at Augusta National Golf Club in [[Augusta (Georgia)|Augusta]], [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]) – ends on the second Sunday in April. The next edition is set for 9–12 April 2026. * '''PGA Championship''' – ends on the third Sunday of May; next edition to be held 14–17 May 2026 at Aronimink Golf Club in the [[Philadelphia]] suburb of Newtown Square, [[Pennsylvania]]. ** Sites have been set through 2034, with the exception of 2033. * '''U.S. Open''' – ends on the third Sunday in June; next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in [[Southampton (New York)|Southampton]], New York (near the eastern end of [[Long Island]], about 85 miles/140 km from Midtown Manhattan). ** Sites have been set through 2042, as well as for most subsequent years through 2051. * '''The Open Championship''' – played during the week containing the third Friday in July; next edition to be held 17–20 July 2025 at Royal [[Portrush]] Golf Club in [[County Antrim]], [[Northern Ireland]] (about 60 mi/100 km from [[Belfast]] and 35 mi/60 km from [[Derry|Derry/Londonderry]]. The tournament returns to the historic Old Course at [[St Andrews]] every few years, and is of special significance when it does. ** The 2026 edition will be played at Royal Birkdale in [[Southport]] from 16–19 July. ** The 2027 edition will be held at the Old Course from 15–18 July. ;Other significant events * '''Ryder Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in odd-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2025 – 26–28 September at the Black Course of [[Bethpage]] State Park on [[Long Island]] (about 35 miles/56 km east of Midtown Manhattan) ** 2027 – 17-19 September at [[Adare]] Manor in [[County Limerick]], [[Ireland]] ** 2029 – Dates TBA in September at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota (a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]) *'''Presidents Cup''' (competition between a USA team and an "International" team of non-Europeans) – Held in even-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and a non-European country ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Medinah Country Club in [[Medinah]], [[Illinois]] (a northwest suburb of [[Chicago]]). ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia (a [[Melbourne/South-Eastern suburbs|southeastern suburb]] of [[Melbourne]]). ** 2030 – Dates TBA at Bellerive Country Club in Town and Country, [[Missouri]] (in the West County region of [[St. Louis County]], which borders on the city of [[St. Louis]]). ====Women's==== ;Major championships Three of the five women's major championships are held in the U.S. As with the men's major championships, all are held from Thursday through Sunday (barring weather delays). * '''Chevron Championship''' (held at The Club at Carlton Woods in [[The Woodlands]], Texas, about 30 mi/50 km north of [[Houston]]) – The next edition is expected to be 23–26 April 2026. * '''U.S. Women's Open''' – Next edition to be held 4–7 June 2026 at Riviera Country Club in the [[Los Angeles]] neighborhood of [[Pacific Palisades]]. ** Future sites have been set through 2036, and for several subsequent years through 2048. * '''Women's PGA Championship''' – Next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]. * '''The Evian Championship''' (always held at the Evian Resort Golf Club in [[Evian|Évian-les-Bains]], [[France]]) – Typically held in July, though the dates haven't been consistent from year to year. The next edition will be from 10–13 July 2025. * '''Women's Open Championship''' (aka "Women's British Open") – From 2025, three weeks after the Evian Championship, allowing the tour to go on a European swing. The 2025 edition will be at Royal [[Porthcawl]] Golf Club in Wales from 31 July–3 August. ;Other significant events * '''Solheim Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in even-numbered years (from 2024) in August or September; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, [[Netherlands]] (just south of [['s-Hertogenbosch|Den Bosch]]) ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Valhalla Golf Club in [[Louisville|Louisville, Kentucky]] (slightly less than 20 mi/32 km east of downtown) * '''International Crown''' (team competition involving seven national teams, plus a "World" team made up of players not from one of the preceding seven countries) – From 2023, held in odd-numbered years in October ** 2025 – 23–26 October at New Korea Country Club in [[Goyang]], [[South Korea]] ===Handball=== {{see also|Handball in Europe}} Olympic or team Handball is a fast paced team sport that is mostly played indoors and enjoys considerable popularity in most of continental Europe. The world cup as well as the European championship are major events, second only to soccer. The best national leagues (found in Germany, France and the Nordic countries) battle out a club champion every year. There is also the [http://www.ehfcl.com EHF Champions League] which battles out Europe's top club team every year. === Ice hockey === {{seealso|Ice hockey in North America|Ice hockey in Europe}} ==== Men's ==== ;IIHF Men's World Championship * 2026: 15–31 May, [[Zurich|Zürich]] and [[Fribourg]], [[Switzerland]] * 2027: 14–30 May, [[Düsseldorf]] and [[Mannheim]], [[Germany]] * 2028: 12–28 May, [[Paris]] and [[Lyon]], [[France]] ==== Women's ==== ;IIHF Women's World Championship Since 2022, the top level of the Women's World Championships has been held annually, even in Winter Olympic years. From 1997–2021, the top level was an annual affair, but Winter Olympic years were skipped. * 2026: Host, dates, and sites TBA ===Motor racing=== {{seealso|Motor sport}} ====[[Formula One]]==== See the dedicated article. ====NASCAR==== A U.S. stock car racing organization, and the country's most popular form of motorsport. The term "stock car" is a historic reference; when NASCAR first organized races in the years immediately after World War II, the cars were in fact "stock"—exactly as purchased from dealers, with minimal safety-related changes. Over time, the cars changed to the point that they are only vaguely similar in external appearance to current street vehicles, with much more powerful engines and far more safety equipment. NASCAR now operates three national touring series: * Cup Series, the top series * Xfinity Series, the second level * Craftsman Truck Series, the third level, which races pickup trucks instead of cars; usually called simply the "Truck Series" Most races are held on oval tracks. For many years, no more than one or two Cup Series races were held on road courses, but since 2021 that number has gone up to six. Five Xfinity Series races and three Truck Series are also held on road courses. Before COVID-19, the Truck Series held one race in Canada, but border restrictions led to that date being transferred south of the border, and NASCAR has yet to return any of its U.S. national series to Canada (although it runs a separate Canadian series). The sport used to be centered in the Southeastern U.S., but beginning in the 1990s it expanded to become a national spectacle. A typical NASCAR event spans a long weekend, with two or even all three series holding races at one site. Unlike most sports, NASCAR's biggest event is the ''first'' race of the season: * '''Daytona 500''', held on the day before the Presidents Day holiday (which falls on the third Monday of February) at Daytona International Speedway in [[Daytona Beach]], [[Florida]] ====IndyCar==== A U.S.-based open-wheel racing series. It was established in its current form in 2008, when the IndyCar Series (launched in 1996) merged with the former Champcars series. The merger is a story in itself—as late as the early 1990s, open-wheel racing, governed by a body known as CART (which later became Champcars), was the most popular form of motorsport in the U.S. However, in 1994, the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the series' marquee event, the Indianapolis 500, had a bitter falling-out with CART, leading to the creation of the competing IndyCar series (which took the Indy 500 with it). The feud led many former open-wheel fans to abandon the sport, often for NASCAR. By the time the feud ended, attendance and sponsorship money for the sport were a fraction of what they had been only 15 years earlier, and only in the late 2010s had it begun to recover some of its original prominence. All of the series' races are held in the U.S. except for one on a street course in [[Toronto]]. The tracks are a mixture of ovals, road courses, and street circuits. The series' marquee event, as mentioned above, is: * '''Indianapolis 500''', held the day before the U.S. holiday of Memorial Day (which falls on the last Monday of May) at the [[Indianapolis]] Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana (a community completely surrounded by the city of Indianapolis) ==== Motorcycle speedway ==== Motorcycle speedway is a sport where lightweight motorcycles race each other on an oval-shaped track. It is most popular in [[Poland]] but also has a major presence in [[Australia]], [[Britain]], and [[Sweden]]. ===== Important events ===== *'''Speedway Grand Prix''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's late spring, summer, and early fall. *'''Speedway of Nations''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's summer (usually June or July). ===Rugby=== {{main|Rugby football}} ====Rugby union==== * 2025 '''Rugby Championship''', various locations in [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], and [[South Africa]]. Normally held August–October, with an abbreviated and time-shifted version held in years of the men's Rugby World Cup. * 2025: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to Australia, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in England, 22 August–27 September *** Note that World Rugby, the governing body for union, uses the "Rugby World Cup" name for both its men's and women's championship events. * 2026 '''Six Nations Championship''', February–March: ** [[Cardiff]], Principality Stadium (Millennium Stadium) ** [[Dublin]], Aviva Stadium ** [[Edinburgh]], Scottish Gas Murrayfield ** [[London]], Twickenham Stadium ** [[Rome]], Stadio Olimpico ** [[Saint-Denis (Île-de-France)|Saint-Denis]] ([[Paris]]), Stade de France * 2027 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2029: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to New Zealand, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2031 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in the United States, dates TBA * 2033: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to South Africa, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in the United States, dates TBA ====Rugby sevens==== * '''World Rugby Sevens Series''' and '''World Rugby Women's Sevens Series''': A series of 8 tournaments for national men's and women's sevens teams held at various locations around the world. In the current format, all events see both sexes compete on the same weekend. Marketed as the '''HSBC SVNS''' (with HSBC being the main corporate sponsor). World Rugby has scrapped the former Rugby World Cup Sevens, making the annual SVNS series its effective successor. ** '''[[Dubai]] Sevens''' – The traditional season opener, held on the weekend including the first Saturday in December at a stadium known as The Sevens. ** '''South Africa Sevens''' – Held on the weekend after the Dubai Sevens at [[Cape Town]] Stadium. ** '''Australian Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of January at [[Perth]] Rectangular Stadium (commercially HBF Park). ** '''Canada Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of February at BC Place in [[Vancouver/Yaletown-False Creek|downtown]] [[Vancouver]]. ** '''USA Sevens''' – Held the weekend after the Canada Sevens at Dignity Health Sports Park in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Carson|Carson, California]]. ** '''[[Hong Kong]] Sevens''' – The most famous men's event. Held in early April at Hong Kong Stadium in So Kon Po, in the [[Hong Kong/Eastern District|east]] of Hong Kong Island. ** '''[[Singapore]] Sevens''' – Held in early May at the National Stadium in Kallang, a district just to the [[Singapore/East Coast|northeast]] of the Downtown Core. ** '''[[Madrid]] Sevens''' – The final event, held at Estadio Metropolitano in the city's [[Madrid/Northern Suburbs|northern]] San Blas district. ====Rugby league==== =====National Rugby League===== *'''NRL Grand Final''' – The first or second Saturday of October at the Sydney Cricket Ground, just [[Sydney/Eastern Suburbs|east of the city centre]]. *'''State of Origin''' series – three matches in all in May–July. One match is normally held in the capital city of each state represented: Stadium Australia (aka Accor Stadium) in the [[Sydney/Sydney Olympic Park|Sydney Olympic Park]], and Lang Park (aka Suncorp Stadium) in [[Brisbane]]. The third game rotates between several cities outside New South Wales and Queensland: [[Adelaide]] (Adelaide Oval), [[Melbourne]] (Melbourne Cricket Ground), and [[Perth]] (Perth Stadium, aka Optus Stadium). =====Super League===== *'''Super League Grand Final''' – =====International===== *'''2026 Rugby League World Cup''' - [[France]] ===Soccer=== {{seealso|Association football|Association football in Europe}} ====Men's==== * '''2025''' FIFA U-17 World Cup, 3–27 November in [[Qatar]]. This becomes an annual event starting in 2025, with Qatar confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2025''' FIFA U-20 World Cup, 27 September–19 October in several cities in [[Chile]] (final most likely in [[Santiago]]) * '''2026''' FIFA World Cup in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], and [[Mexico]]; 11 June–19 July (final in [[East Rutherford]], New Jersey, near New York City) ====Women's==== * '''2025''' [https://www.fifa.com/u17womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, 17 October–8 November in [[Morocco]]. Starting in 2025, this becomes an annual event, with Morocco confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2026''' [https://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup],{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} 5–27 September in [[Poland]] * '''2027''' FIFA Women's World Cup in [[Brazil]], 24 June–25 July ===Table tennis=== [[China]] has been the world's dominant force in table tennis since at least the 1980s, so it comes as no surprise that the '''China Table Tennis Super League''' (CTTSL) is one of the best tournaments in the world, featuring not only the best players from all over China, but several top international players as well. The main international professional circuit is known as '''[https://worldtabletennis.com/ World Table Tennis]''' (WTT), of which the top level is known as the '''WTT Series'''. The most important WTT Series tournaments, offering the most world ranking points and prize money, are known as the '''Grand Smashes''', of which there are three, as of 2024: *'''[https://www.singaporesmash.com Singapore Smash]''' — held in March at the Singapore Sports Hub in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]] *'''[https://www.saudismash.com Saudi Smash]''' — held in May at King Abdullah Sports City in [[Jeddah]] *'''China Smash''' — held in late September and early October at Shougang Park in [[Beijing]] The season-concluding tournament of the WTT Series is the '''WTT Finals''', featuring the top 16 singles players and top 8 doubles pairs of each sex. The 2024 WTT Finals will be held from 20-24 November at the [[Kitakyushu]] General Gymnasium. Table tennis is also contested at the Summer Olympics, which is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport. The table tennis event at the Olympics consists of men's and women's singles, men's and women's teams, and a mixed doubles event. There is also the annual '''World Table Tennis Championships''', which is contested between individuals and doubles pairs in odd years, and between national teams in even years. ===Tennis=== ''See also [[Tennis]].'' Tennis has events throughout the calendar year. The top-level men's tour is the ATP Tour, with the WTA Tour as the women's counterpart. The men's and women's tours come together for the four '''Grand Slam''' events and a few other select tournaments throughout the year. The only players to have ever completed the Grand Slam are Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 & 1969) in the men's event, and Maureen Connolly (1953), Margaret Court (1970) and Steffi Graf (1988) in the women's event. In addition to these, the '''[https://www.daviscup.com/ Davis Cup]''' for men and '''[https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/ Billie Jean King Cup]''' (known as the Fed Cup until 2020) for women are the top events for national teams; these operate as multi-level leagues. The top levels (now known as the "Finals" in both events) were traditionally conducted as knockout tournaments, but now use a format similar to that of the FIFA World Cup, with all qualifying nations meeting at a single site for a group stage followed by a knockout stage. A player who wins all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year is said to have completed a '''golden slam''', and the only able-bodied player to have done so to date was Germany's Steffi Graf in 1988. (The doubles partnership of American identical twins Bob and Mike Bryan, aka the Bryan Brothers, won all of the required events consecutively, but their streak started with the 2012 Olympics, thus spanning two calendar years. Two wheelchair tennis players have completed the calendar-year golden slam, with their version replacing the able-bodied Olympics with the Paralympic Games.) At the professional level, tennis court surfaces can be divided into three types: grass, clay and hard. Each of these surfaces has a different bounce profile for the ball, thus favouring different playing styles. While all professional tennis players are competent on all three surfaces, some players are known to excel on particular surfaces; for instance, Rafael Nadal was known for his excellence on clay courts during his prime, while Roger Federer was well-known for his prowess on grass courts. Most ATP and WTA events feature both singles and doubles tournaments, with Grand Slams and the Olympics also featuring a mixed doubles tournament. ====Grand Slam events==== All four of these events are held over two weeks (15 days of play at all events except Wimbledon, still at 14). They are considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of tennis, and are even more prestigious than the Olympics. * '''[https://ausopen.com/ Australian Open]''': Ends on the last Sunday in January at [[Melbourne]] Park just outside the city centre. Frequently suffers from hot and humid weather in the southern summer, although this has been alleviated by retractable roofs on the three main courts. The final is held in the Rod Laver Arena, which is named after Rod Laver, the only player to have completed a grand slam twice, and the last man to achieve the feat when he did so in 1969. Has been played on hard courts since 1988. * '''[https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/ French Open]''' (also known as ''Roland Garros''): Held in late May and early June at ''Stade Roland Garros'' in the Bois de Boulogne in the [[Paris/16th arrondissement|16th arondissement]] of [[Paris]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event still held on clay courts. * '''[https://www.wimbledon.com/ Wimbledon]''': Begins on the first Monday in July and ends on the second Sunday following at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in the [[London/Wimbledon|Wimbledon]] neighbourhood of southwest [[London]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event held on grass courts, requiring all players to dress only in white (though women are now allowed to wear colored underwear to better hide menstruation), and many other traditions. The oldest and most prestigious of the Grand Slams. * '''[https://www.usopen.org/ US Open]''': Begins in August, on the Sunday that precedes the weekend of the US holiday of Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September. Ends on the Sunday following Labor Day. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in the northern part of the [[New York City]] borough of [[Queens]]. Has been played on hard courts since 1978. ====Season-ending championships==== Both the ATP and WTA have season-ending events for the very top players, with eight players qualifying for the finals in singles and eight teams in doubles. The competitors are divided into two groups of four, each playing a round-robin within the group. The top two finishers in each group advance to the semifinals, with the winners of each semifinal contesting the final. * '''[https://www.nittoatpfinals.com/en ATP Finals]''': Mid-November at Pala Alpitour (aka Palasport Olimpico) in [[Turin]], Italy. * '''[https://www.wtatennis.com/wta-finals WTA Finals]''': Late October–early November in [[Riyadh]], Saudi Arabia. In the mid-2010s, the WTA Tour launched the '''WTA Elite Trophy''', a second season-ending event for players immediately below those who qualify for the WTA Finals. It was suspended because Covid-19 from 2020 to 2020.. ====Other top-tier events==== Both the ATP and WTA have a multi-level hierarchy of events, with the Grand Slams at the top, followed by the season-ending championships and then the events shown here (with other levels below these in both cases). The two tours have differing terminology for this level: * ATP: Nine events known as the "ATP Tour Masters 1000". All top players are required to enter these events (barring injury or other misfortune), with the exception of the Monte-Carlo Masters. * WTA: The "WTA 1000" was established in 2021 by the merger of the former "Premier Mandatory" and "Premier 5" events. Since 2024, there have been ten WTA 1000 tournaments, all of which are mandatory. * Olympics: The tennis event at the Olympics is less prestigious than the Grand Slams, and many top players choose to skip it, while those who compete often do not take it seriously and lose to little-known lower-ranked opponents. Moreover, the Olympics typically falls in the middle of the U.S. hard court season, meaning that players miss important tournaments and lose valuable ranking points in their quest to qualify for the season-ending championships should they choose to participate. That said, there is a special prestige attached to winning all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in a single calendar year, known as a golden slam. Unlike in the professional circuits, doubles pairs at the Olympics must be from the same country. With that in mind, here are the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events: * '''[[Qatar]] Ladies Open''': Mid-February at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in [[Doha]]. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Dubai]] Tennis Championships''': Late February at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour also plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''Indian Wells Masters''' (men) and '''Indian Wells Open''' (women): Early March in [[Indian Wells]], California (near Palm Springs). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Miami Open''': Late March–early April at Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], Florida (north of the city of Miami). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Monte-Carlo Masters''': Mid-April at Monte Carlo Country Club in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, next to Monaco. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Madrid]] Open''': Mid-May at Caja Mágica in Madrid. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Italian Open''': Week following the Madrid Open at Foro Italico in Rome. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Canadian Open''': Early August at Stade IGA in Montreal and Sobeys Stadium (formerly Aviva Centre) in Toronto. In odd-numbered years, the men play in Montreal and the women in Toronto, and vice versa in even-numbered years. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Cincinnati Masters''' (men) and '''Cincinnati Open''' (women): Week after the Canadian Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in [[Mason (Ohio)|Mason, Ohio]], northeast of [[Cincinnati]]. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Wuhan]] Open''': Last week of September at Optics Valley International Tennis Center. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''China Open''': Start of October, immediately following the Wuhan Open, at the National Tennis Center in [[Beijing]]. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''[[Shanghai]] Masters''': Week after the China Open at Qi Zhong Stadium in the southwest of the city. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Paris]] Masters''': Late October–early November at AccorHotels Arena in the [[Paris/12th arrondissement|12th arrondissement]]. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' The Grand Slams, tour finals and ATP Masters 1000/WTA 1000 tournaments are collectively known as the '''Big Titles'''. Serbia's Novak Djokovic is the only singles player of either sex to have won all the Big Titles in the course of his career, and was said to have "completed the game of tennis" by adding the Olympic gold medal to those in 2024. Three other men's players, all retired, have won all of the Big Titles in doubles—Canadian Daniel Nestor as an individual, and the aforementioned Bryan Brothers as a team. All also have Olympic gold medals in doubles. Djokovic and the Bryans have also been on national teams that won the Davis Cup. ==Stay safe== Take precautions typical for [[Stay safe#Mass gatherings|large crowds]] and major events, with risk factors such as [[pickpocketing]], [[infectious diseases]], drunk brawls and stampedes. '''Hooliganism''' is organized violence associated with sport fandom, in particular prevalent in [[association football in Europe|men's football in Europe]]. The risk of hooliganism differs between countries and teams, and might be difficult to assess from a neutral source. {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Sports}} 7p7ckzukhuoplor8higuhj28l0rr7c3 5090950 5090946 2025-07-10T16:31:52Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Central America and Caribbean Games */ 5090950 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|MalmöFF Fans banner.jpg|caption=Fans of Malmö FF, a Swedish football team}} '''Spectator sports''' are those where the players are greatly outnumbered by their audience, often a thousandfold and sometimes a millionfold for the biggest events. These usually involve travel, often long-distance, so there is a distinct experience of sports travel for those crowds, covered on this page. See [[Sports]] for those you participate in yourself, watched (if at all) by a few family members or ex-players. See [[Activities]] for the broader sphere of mostly non-competitive pastimes such as bird-watching. == Understand == [[File:Olympic Torch 2010.jpg | thumb | 300px | Lighting the Olympic flame from the sun]] Spectator sports have a long history: in the western tradition this is exemplified by the ancient Olympic Games. But mass travelling audiences only emerged in the 19th century, with the development of leisure time, disposable income, and public transport. Indeed the Olympics are a 19th-century reinvention, with the ancient event lapsing around 400 AD and the modern version launching in Athens in 1896. In the 19th and 20th centuries, three tribes emerged: an elite of professional players, an audience watching them direct or on TV or internet, and the "grassroots" playing at amateur or junior level. Of course there is overlap, but the stark feature today is how different those worlds have become; certainly their travel experiences could not be more different. The divergence caused great soul-searching in sports associations, and sometimes acrimonious splits. It's no spoiler to say that big money and big business won, and spectator sports are designed to extract their followers' cash not only by gate receipts, but by advertising and sponsorship, by merchandising, by broadcasting rights, and by gambling. Spectator sports are also a matter of national prestige and policy: countries market themselves as sports destination, and by "sports-washing" deflect attention from their unattractive regimes. The live audience for big events is nowadays greatly outnumbered by TV and internet viewers, and developments in virtual reality promise to take this further. But for the time being, the crowd is essential to the event. They descend in partisan masses upon the host city, throng the pubs and transport hubs, and book up accommodation. Their chants and slogans, team regalia, cheers and boos, all create an intense atmosphere. Alcohol-fuelled violence has too often been a by-product. Early spectators simply milled around the playing area, craning to see the action. It's still like that in golf, where crowds follow their favourite player from hole to hole, and in on-road races for cycling and motor sports where the biggest audience is close to the finish line but people find vantage points all along the way. Larger crowds made this unmanageable for most sports, so embankments then stadiums were built: modern examples are huge and architecturally exciting. Stadiums may be multi-purpose or dedicated to one sport, and a big division is between those for ball games, and those incorporating a running track, which makes them suitable for Olympics but distances the crowd. They may be "borrowed" for events, for instance international rugby matches may use a soccer stadium simply for extra capacity. The upkeep of a stadium (even a small one) is usually part-financed by a sponsorship deal, so they change their names for the length of the deal, sometimes just for a specific event. Signage on streets and public transport can't keep up with this so be sure to check not only which stadium you're going to, but any other names it's locally known by. Every big city has a sports or other mass event at least once a week, so they are well-practised in signage, stewarding and crowd safety, extra and diverted transport, and policing. See individual city pages for accommodation, and other things to see and do there. See [[Events]] for the very largest, which embroil entire countries for days on end. These draw a travelling army of fans following their teams from city to city as the tournament progresses, so even if you don't plan to attend, you have to factor the event into your travel plans. ==Articles about watching sports== <div style="{{column-width|25em}}"> * [[Spectator sports in Japan]] * [[American football]] * [[Association football]] ** [[Association football in Europe]] * [[Australian rules football]] * [[Baseball]] ** [[Baseball in the United States]] * [[Basketball in North America]] * [[Boxing]] * [[Bullfighting]] * [[Cricket]] * [[Field hockey]] * [[Formula One]] * [[Golf]] * [[Handball in Europe]] * [[Horse racing]] * [[Ice hockey in Europe]] * [[Ice hockey in North America]] * [[Martial arts]] * [[Motorcycle speedway]] * [[Olympic Games]] * [[Rugby football]] * [[Tennis]] </div> ==Events with multiple sports== ===African Games === The African Games are held among the countries of Africa. * '''2027''': [[Cairo]], Egypt, 20 January–7 February. * '''2031''': [[Kinshasa]], DR Congo (dates TBA). ===Asian Games=== The [http://www.ocasia.org Asian Games]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} among the countries of Asia; the second largest multi-sports games after the Summer Olympics. Features some sports that are popular in Asia but not contested at the Olympics such as wushu (Chinese martial arts), kabbadi, sepak takraw and dragon boat racing, as well as some globally-popular non-Olympic sports such as tenpin bowling and squash. The Asian Games also have added several popular esports as official medal events. The Winter Asian Games are operated by the same body but feature only winter sports. Normally held in the year before the Winter Olympics. * '''2026''': 19 September–4 October, [[Nagoya]], [[Japan]] * '''2030''': [[Doha]], [[Qatar]] * '''2034''': [[Riyadh]], [[Saudi Arabia]] <!-- ===Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games=== --> ===Bolivarian Games=== * '''2025''': November 23 to December 7 in [[Ayacucho]] and [[Lima]], [[Peru]] ===Central American Games === The Central American Games, only involving the seven nations of [[Central America]]. * '''2025''': 15–31 October, [[Guatemala City]], Guatemala ===Central America and Caribbean Games === The [https://inside.fei.org/fei/games/cont-reg-games/central-american-caribbean Central America and Caribbean Games] — the second oldest international multi-sport games. * '''2026''': 24 July — 8 August, [[Santo Domingo]], [[Dominican Republic]] ===Commonwealth Games=== The [https://www.commonwealthsport.com Commonwealth Games] among the countries of the [[British Empire#Commonwealth countries|Commonwealth of Nations]]; the fourth-largest multi-sports games. Unlike other multi-sport events, para-sports events are held as part of the main games with the able-bodied sports events. Features some non-Olympic sports that are popular in the Commonwealth such as lawn bowls, squash and netball. [[England]], [[Scotland]], [[Wales]] and [[Northern Ireland]] send separate teams to the Commonwealth Games, in contrast to the Olympics where they send a unified [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]] team. The next games in 2026 had been scheduled for the Australian state of Victoria, but the state government pulled out in July 2023, citing financial concerns. [[Glasgow]], Scotland was announced as the new host in September 2024; the 2026 games will be considerably scaled down from past editions, with only 10 sports and no athletes' village. === Deaflympics=== The [https://www.deaflympics.com Deaflympics] is an IOC-sanctioned event for athletes with hearing impairments. Although the sports are largely the same as the Olympics, modifications are made to not rely on sounds such as starter's guns, spoken commands or referee whistles. Separate summer and winter games are held. * '''2025 Summer Deaflympics''': 15–26 November in [[Tokyo]], Japan ===European Games=== The [http://www.european-games.org/ European Games] among [[Europe]]an countries. The newest continental-level multi-sport event, with its first edition in 2015. Also in the year before the Summer Olympics. * '''2027''' in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]; dates TBA ===Gay Games=== The [https://www.gaygames.org Gay Games] attract mostly LGBT athletes, though are open to all. * '''2026''': 27 June to 4 July [[Valencia]], [[Spain]] * '''2030''': Host to be announced in November 2025 ===Jeux de la Francophonie=== [https://www.jeux.francophonie.org Jeux de la Francophonie] among the countries of La Francophonie. The Canadian provinces of [[Quebec]] and [[New Brunswick]] send separate teams from the Canadian team, and the Belgian team is restricted to sending Francophone athletes. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. *'''2027''': July 23 to August 1, [[Yerevan]], Armenia ===National Games of China=== The National Games of China a multi-sport competition between [[China]]'s [[Chinese provinces and regions|provincial level units]], including [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], as well as teams representing the Chinese military and various Chinese industry groups. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. The standards of the diving and table tennis competitions in particular are regarded by most to be even higher than the Olympics. * '''2025''': [[Guangdong]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] <!-- ===Lusofonia Games=== The [http://www.acolop.org/ Lusofonia Games] among the world's Portuguese-speaking countries. Last held in 2014. ===Mediterranean Games=== --> === Maccabiah Games=== The [https://www.maccabiah.com/en/ Maccabiah Games] for Jewish athletes from 85 nations, and Israelis regardless of ethnicity or religion, are the third-largest multi-sports event by number of competitors after the Summer Olympics and Asian Games. Always held in Israel. * '''2025''': July, Israel ===Olympic Games=== {{main|Olympic Games}} * [[Milan–Cortina 2026|'''2026''': Winter Olympics]], 6 – 22 Feb, [[Milan]] and [[Cortina d'Ampezzo|Cortina]], [[Italy]] * [[Los Angeles 2028|'''2028''': Summer Olympics]], 21 Jul - 6 Aug, [[Los Angeles]], [[United States of America|USA]], with softball and canoe slalom to be held in [[Oklahoma City]] * [[French Alps 2030|'''2030''': Winter Olympics]], 1 - 17 Feb, multiple locations in the [[French Alps]], plus [[Nice]], [[France]] and [[Turin]], [[Italy]] * [[Brisbane 2032|'''2032''': Summer Olympics]], 23 Jul - 8 Aug, [[Brisbane]], [[Australia]] * [[Salt Lake City–Utah 2034|'''2034''': Winter Olympics]], 10 - 26 Feb, [[Salt Lake City]], [[United States of America|USA]], with other venues scattered around the state of [[Utah]] ===Pacific Games=== * The [http://websites.sportstg.com/assoc_page.cgi?c=2-2642-0-0-0&sID=24021 Pacific Games] among the countries of [[Oceania]] except Australia and New Zealand. * '''2027''': Pīraʻe, [[Tahiti]] ===Pan American Games=== The [http://www.panamsports.org Pan American Games] among the countries of the Americas. * '''2027''': Host and dates TBA. Barranquilla, Colombia had been announced as host, but didn't meet contractual obligations and was stripped of hosting rights in January 2024. ===Southeast Asian Games=== The Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), held every two years in odd-numbered years, among the countries of [[Southeast Asia]]. Features some sports that are only popular in Southeast Asia such as sepak takraw and silat. * '''2025''': 7–19 December, [[Bangkok]], Thailand * '''2027''': [[Kuala Lumpur]], Malaysia * '''2029''': Singapore * '''2031''': Laos * '''2033''': Philippines === Special Olympics=== The [https://www.specialolympics.org Special Olympics] are IOC-sanctioned events for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities. ==== Special Olympics World Summer Games ==== * '''2027''': Dates TBA, [[Perth]], [[Australia]] * '''2031''': Dates TBA, [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] ==== Special Olympics World Winter Games ==== * '''2025''': Dates TBA, [[Turin]] and other venues in the [[Piedmont]] region, [[Italy]] * '''2029''': Dates TBA, [[Chur]] and other venues in the [[Graubünden]] canton, [[Switzerland]] <!-- ===Student Games=== --> ===World Games=== Held every four years in the year after the summer Olympic Games. No events overlap with any contested in the Olympics. Many of the sports are not part of the Olympic program at all; the World Games also feature many non-Olympic disciplines or events within Olympic sports. The events are organized by the International World Games Association, which is recognized by the IOC. * '''2025''': 7–17 July, [[Chengdu]], China ==Events for a single sport== ===American football=== {{main|American football}} ==== National Football League ==== * '''Super Bowl LX''' – 8 February 2026 at Levi's Stadium in [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]], [[California]] (home to the San Francisco 49ers). * '''Super Bowl LXI''' – 14 February 2027 at SoFi Stadium in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Inglewood]], California (home to the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams). * '''Super Bowl LXII''' – Date TBA in February 2028 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in [[Atlanta/Downtown|downtown]] [[Atlanta]], Georgia (home to the Atlanta Falcons). =====NFL International Series===== At least five regular season games, with three in [[London]] (England) and at least two in other countries. The NFL has contracts with two London venues, namely Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The nominal home teams for the 2025 games have been announced (the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley, the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets at Spurs, the Indianapolis Colts in Berlin, the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin). The date for the Dublin game has been announced; other dates are expected to be announced in spring 2025.<!--Following standard US usage, the second team listed is the designated "home" team.--> ======NFL games in Mexico====== The NFL first held a regular season game in Mexico in 2005. Despite good attendance, the league did not return until the 2016 season, the first of what was meant to be a three-year deal to hold one game each season in that country. With both the 2016 and 2017 games selling out, the deal was extended through the 2021 season with an eye to possibly play more than one game per season in future years. All Mexico games thus far have been held in Estadio Azteca in [[Mexico City]]. The most recent Mexico game was in 2022. With Estadio Azteca being renovated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there will be no Mexico games until at least the 2026 season. ======NFL games in Germany====== In February 2022, the NFL announced a four-year agreement to expand the NFL International Series in Germany. The games were originally to be split between the Allianz Arena in Munich and Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt. The first game was held in the 2022 season. With the Mexico game being put on hold due to stadium renovations, there were two Germany games in 2023, both in Frankfurt. The 2024 game was held in Munich with the Carolina Panthers "hosting" and defeating the New York Giants. Berlin is joining the list of Germany hosts, with Olympiastadion set to host its first game at a so-far-undetermined date in 2025. ======NFL games in Brazil====== The NFL announced in November 2023 it would extend its International Series to Brazil. The first game in that country was held on September 6, 2024, with the Philadelphia Eagles "hosting" and defeating the Green Bay Packers at Arena Corinthians in [[São Paulo]]. Another Brazil game will be held on September 5, 2025, again at Arena Corinthians, with the Los Angeles Chargers as "host". ======NFL games in Spain====== Shortly after announcing the expansion to Brazil, the NFL extended the series to Spain. The first game in Spain will be held in 2025 at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in [[Madrid]] with the Miami Dolphins as "host". ======NFL games in Ireland====== The NFL has also extended the series to Ireland, with the first game being "hosted" by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 at Croke Park in [[Dublin]]. ======NFL games in Australia====== In 2026, the NFL expands its "International Series" to Australia, with the first game of the regular season being played at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground with the Los Angeles Rams "hosting". ==== US college football ==== * '''College Football Playoff National Championship''' ** 2026: Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], [[Florida]] (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 19 ** 2027: Allegiant Stadium in [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|Paradise]], [[Nevada]] (home of the Las Vegas Raiders); January 25 ** 2028: Caesars Superdome in [[New Orleans]], [[Louisiana]] (home of the New Orleans Saints); January 24 ** 2029: Raymond James Stadium in [[Tampa]], [[Florida]] (home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers); January 22 ** 2030: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 21 Each of these games is the championship for the previous calendar year. The bulk of the American football season takes place in the northern hemisphere fall/autumn. ====European League of Football==== * '''ELF Championship Game''' – 2025 edition at Neckarstadion (aka MHPArena) in [[Stuttgart]], Germany at a date in September to be determined ====German Football League==== * [http://www.germanbowl.de/ German Bowl] – 2025 host TBA ===Australian rules football=== {{main|Australian rules football}} ====Australian Football League==== * '''2025 AFL Grand Final''' at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground – 27 September ===Badminton=== Badminton is generally most popular in Asia, and Asian countries generally dominate the international tournaments; Denmark is the only non-Asian country to be considered a badminton powerhouse. Although badminton is popularly regarded as a backyard sport in the United States and often played outdoors recreationally, professional badminton is almost always played indoors. The '''[https://bwfworldtour.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour]''' is the premier professional tournament circuit, and is divided into six tiers. The top tier is occupied by a single tournament: the season-concluding '''[https://bwfworldtourfinals.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour Finals]''' in December every year. This is planned to be held in [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] until at least 2026. All BWF World Tour tournaments feature both men's and women's tournaments, as well as a mixed doubles tournament. The next tier is the BWF World Tour Super 1000, comprising the four most important tournaments on the circuit apart from the Finals, offering the largest number of ranking points and amount of prize money. As of 2024, they are as follows: *'''Malaysia Open''' — held in January every year at the Putra Indoor Stadium in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. *'''[https://www.allenglandbadminton.com All England Open]''' — the oldest international badminton tournament in the world, and the most prestigious tournament on the circuit. Held in March every year at the Arena Birmingham in [[Birmingham]]. *'''China Open''' — held in September every year. Since 2018, has been held at the Xincheng Gymnasium in [[Changzhou]]. *'''Indonesia Open''' — held in November every year at the Istora Gelora Bung Karno in [[Jakarta]]. Below that is the BWF World Tour 750, which offer less ranking points and prize money, but generally still attract most of the top players. *'''China Masters''' — held in November at the Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium in [[Shenzhen]]. *'''[https://denmarkopen.dk/ Denmark Open]''' — held in October at the Arena Fyn in [[Odense]]. *'''[https://www.yonexifb.com/uk/home French Open]''' — usually held in October, but the 2024 event was held in March at the Adidas Arena in [[Paris]] as a trial event for the Olympics. *'''[https://daihatsu-japan-open.com/ Japan Open]''' — held in August at the Yokohama Arena in [[Yokohama]]. *'''India Open''' — held in January at the K. D. Jadhav Indoor Hall in [[Delhi]]. *'''Singapore Open''' — held in late May or early June at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]]. The '''[https://bwfworldchampionships.bwfbadminton.com World Championships]''' are held every year except in Olympic years. Badminton has been an Olympic sport since 1992, with the Olympics generally being considered the premier tournament in the sport. There is also the '''Thomas Cup''' for men's national teams, and the '''Uber Cup''' for women's national teams, which mostly operate as multi-level leagues. ===Baseball=== {{seealso|Baseball|Baseball in the United States}} * World Baseball Classic * '''[https://www.seriedelcaribe.net/ Caribbean Series]''' (''Serie del Caribe'') is a championship tournament held in February each year. Champion teams from professional baseball leagues of various Caribbean and Latin American countries compete for the championship. * '''Little League World Series''' – Held over 10 days, ending on the last Sunday of August, in [[Williamsport|South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA]]. ===Basketball=== ====NBA==== {{seealso|Basketball in North America}} ====US college basketball==== The biggest event in US college (university) basketball is the NCAA Division I men's tournament, featuring 68 teams. The Division I women's tournament draws considerably less interest, but is still the biggest event in American women's college sports. The men's tournament begins on the Tuesday preceding the third Thursday in March (in terms of dates, no earlier than March 13 and no later than March 19) in [[Dayton|Dayton, Ohio]] with an eight-team round marketed as the First Four, featuring two games on Tuesday and two on Wednesday. The winners of these four games join the remaining 60 tournament teams for the first round, which starts on the third Thursday in March. The women's tournament expanded from 64 teams to 68 starting in 2022, with its own First Four; it starts the day after the men's tournament. The four-team final rounds of these tournaments are known as the Final Four. Future Final Four sites are: ;Men * 2026 – April 4 and 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in [[Indianapolis]] * 2027 – April 3 and 5 at Ford Field in [[Detroit]] * 2028 – April 1 and 3 at Allegiant Stadium just [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|west]] of the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Las Vegas Strip]] * 2029 – March 31 and April 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis * 2030 – April 6 and 8 at AT&T Stadium in [[Arlington (Texas)|Arlington, Texas]], between [[Dallas]] and [[Fort Worth]] ;Women * 2026 – April 3 and 5 at PHX Arena in [[Phoenix]] * 2027 – April 2 and 4 at Nationwide Arena in [[Columbus|Columbus, Ohio]] * 2028 – March 31 and April 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis * 2029 – March 30 and April 1 at the Alamodome in San Antonio * 2030 – April 5 and 7 at Moda Center in [[Portland (Oregon)|Portland, Oregon]] * 2031 – April 4 and 6 at American Airlines Center in Dallas ====EuroLeague==== The EuroLeague is basketball's equivalent to the UEFA Champions League in association football (soccer), featuring top club teams from throughout Europe (note that in sports, "Europe" includes several countries either partly or totally in Asia, most notably Russia, Turkey, and Israel). The season starts in October and ends with the '''EuroLeague Final Four''' in May. * 2026 – May 22 and 24 in either Athens or Belgrade (site TBA) ===Canadian football=== {{seealso|American football#Canadian Football League}} * '''112th Grey Cup''' at Princess Auto Stadium in [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]] (home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers); November 16, 2025 * '''113th Grey Cup''' at McMahon Stadium in [[Calgary/Northwest|northwest]] [[Calgary]], [[Alberta]] (home of the Calgary Stampeders); November 15, 2026 ===Cricket=== {{main|Cricket}} * '''[https://www.lords.org/lords/our-history/the-ashes The Ashes]''' — November 2025–January 2026 at the following venues in [[Australia]]: ** [[Perth]] Stadium, in the [[Perth/The Suburbs|northern suburb]] of Burswood — 21–25 November 2025 ** The Gabba, in the [[Brisbane]] suburb of Wooloongabba — 4–8 December 2025 ** [[Adelaide]] Oval, in the [[Adelaide/City and North Adelaide|parklands]] between the central business district and North Adelaide — 17–21 December 2025 ** [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground, in Yarra Park in the city's [[Melbourne/Inner east|inner east]] — 26–30 December 2025. The traditional Boxing Day Test at the MCG is one of the sport's most iconic events. ** [[Sydney]] Cricket Ground, in Moore Park in the [[Sydney/City East|inner eastern suburbs]] — 4—8 January 2026 * '''Cricket World Cup''' — October—November 2027, co-hosted by [[South Africa]], [[Zimbabwe]] and [[Namibia]]. ===Cycling=== Road bicycle racing is broadly divided into two race types: * '''Single-day races''' — Exactly as the name implies, these races are held on a single day at around the same time each year. Some have fixed courses; more have fixed starting and end points with courses varying slightly from year to year. The most prestigious races of this type are often called "classics", but the term is poorly defined. * '''Stage races''' — Held over more than one day, with one race each day known as a "stage" (though some races, notably the Grand Tours, will include one or two rest days). While there is an award ceremony at the end of each stage, the overall winner is determined by "general classification"—the cumulative time for the entire race. The most famous road racing events for bicycles in the world are the three stage races known as Grand Tours. They are raced in Italy, France, and Spain but commonly also include legs in other countries. These tours, each featuring 21 stages, involve only men's races, and are even more prestigious than the road cycling events at the Olympics. * '''[https://www.giroditalia.it Giro d'Italia]''' — around Italy, usually takes place in May. * '''[https://www.letour.fr/en/ Tour de France]''' — around France, usually takes place in July. The most prestigious of the three. * '''[https://www.lavuelta.es/en Vuelta a España]''' — around Spain, usually takes place in August. While countless single-day races are run, both throughout Europe and worldwide, the most famous are the five races known as "Monuments", all of which were first held between 1890 and 1915. * '''[[Milan]]–[[Sanremo|San Remo]]''' (Italian: ''Milano–Sanremo'') – The first major classic of the year, usually on the third Saturday of March on a course between the two named locations. It's considered "the sprinters' classic" because its mostly flat course favors that type of rider. * '''Tour of [[Flanders]]''' (Dutch: ''Ronde van Vlaanderen'') – Held in early April through [[Belgium]]'s Flanders region between [[Antwerp]] and [[Oudenaarde]]. The first of the "cobbled classics", with many key sections (including several short but very steep hills) paved in cobblestones. * '''[[Paris]]–[[Roubaix]]''' – Probably ''the'' most famous single-day race, it's known as the "Queen of the Classics" and ''l'Enfer du Nord'' ("The Hell of the North [of France]"). Held one week after the Tour of Flanders, it features even longer stretches of cobblestone roads, making it arguably the hardest single-day race on riders. * '''[[Liège]]–[[Bastogne]]–Liège''' – Held in late April in Belgium, this race is nearly as hard on riders as Paris–Roubaix, but for different reasons, namely a long course with numerous short but steep hills in the [[Ardennes]] region, as well as an uphill finish in Liège. * '''Giro di [[Lombardy|Lombardia]]''' (officially ''Il Lombardia'') – The year's final Monument, held in October over a course that varies from year to year, with only a few fixed locations, most famously the arduous climb to the Madonna del Ghisallo church in Magreglio near Lake Como. The race ends in either [[Bergamo]] or [[Como]]. Known as "the climbers' classic" from its many significant climbs. Cycling is also featured at the Summer Olympics in 4 disciplines; track cycling, road cycling, mountain biking and BMX. With the exception of the men's road cycling discipline, these are generally considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of cycling. <!-- ===Gaelic football=== --> ===Golf=== {{main|Golf}} The most important professional golf tournaments in the world are knowns as the '''majors''', offering the largest amounts of prize money and world ranking points. The men's and women's professional circuits are run separately, with a separate set of majors for each sex. The most important men's professional circuit is the U.S.-based PGA Tour, while the corresponding professional circuit for women is the LPGA Tour, also based in the U.S. The PGA and LPGA also sanction some tournaments outside the U.S., and some tournaments are co-sanctioned by multiple professional circuits. For instance, all the men's majors are co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour, the European Tour and the Japan Golf Tour. Golf was an Olympic sport 1900–1904, and has been one since 2016. The Olympic golf tournament is less prestigious than the majors and offers no prize money, and many of the top male golfers choose to skip it, but the top female golfers usually participate. ====Men's==== ;Major championships Three of the four men's major championships are held in the U.S. The only exception is The Open Championship, also known as the "British Open". Each tournament is played from Thursday through Sunday, barring weather-related delays, and has a fixed weekend on the calendar. Tickets for practice sessions during the days before the tournament starts are also sold. A golfer who wins all four majors in the same calendar year is said to have completed the '''Grand Slam''', which has yet to be achieved (Tiger Woods won all four consecutively, but spanning two calendar years starting from the 2000 U.S. Open to the 2001 Masters Tournament; at the time, the PGA Championship was the year's final major, instead of the second). * '''Masters Tournament''' (always held at Augusta National Golf Club in [[Augusta (Georgia)|Augusta]], [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]) – ends on the second Sunday in April. The next edition is set for 9–12 April 2026. * '''PGA Championship''' – ends on the third Sunday of May; next edition to be held 14–17 May 2026 at Aronimink Golf Club in the [[Philadelphia]] suburb of Newtown Square, [[Pennsylvania]]. ** Sites have been set through 2034, with the exception of 2033. * '''U.S. Open''' – ends on the third Sunday in June; next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in [[Southampton (New York)|Southampton]], New York (near the eastern end of [[Long Island]], about 85 miles/140 km from Midtown Manhattan). ** Sites have been set through 2042, as well as for most subsequent years through 2051. * '''The Open Championship''' – played during the week containing the third Friday in July; next edition to be held 17–20 July 2025 at Royal [[Portrush]] Golf Club in [[County Antrim]], [[Northern Ireland]] (about 60 mi/100 km from [[Belfast]] and 35 mi/60 km from [[Derry|Derry/Londonderry]]. The tournament returns to the historic Old Course at [[St Andrews]] every few years, and is of special significance when it does. ** The 2026 edition will be played at Royal Birkdale in [[Southport]] from 16–19 July. ** The 2027 edition will be held at the Old Course from 15–18 July. ;Other significant events * '''Ryder Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in odd-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2025 – 26–28 September at the Black Course of [[Bethpage]] State Park on [[Long Island]] (about 35 miles/56 km east of Midtown Manhattan) ** 2027 – 17-19 September at [[Adare]] Manor in [[County Limerick]], [[Ireland]] ** 2029 – Dates TBA in September at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota (a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]) *'''Presidents Cup''' (competition between a USA team and an "International" team of non-Europeans) – Held in even-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and a non-European country ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Medinah Country Club in [[Medinah]], [[Illinois]] (a northwest suburb of [[Chicago]]). ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia (a [[Melbourne/South-Eastern suburbs|southeastern suburb]] of [[Melbourne]]). ** 2030 – Dates TBA at Bellerive Country Club in Town and Country, [[Missouri]] (in the West County region of [[St. Louis County]], which borders on the city of [[St. Louis]]). ====Women's==== ;Major championships Three of the five women's major championships are held in the U.S. As with the men's major championships, all are held from Thursday through Sunday (barring weather delays). * '''Chevron Championship''' (held at The Club at Carlton Woods in [[The Woodlands]], Texas, about 30 mi/50 km north of [[Houston]]) – The next edition is expected to be 23–26 April 2026. * '''U.S. Women's Open''' – Next edition to be held 4–7 June 2026 at Riviera Country Club in the [[Los Angeles]] neighborhood of [[Pacific Palisades]]. ** Future sites have been set through 2036, and for several subsequent years through 2048. * '''Women's PGA Championship''' – Next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]. * '''The Evian Championship''' (always held at the Evian Resort Golf Club in [[Evian|Évian-les-Bains]], [[France]]) – Typically held in July, though the dates haven't been consistent from year to year. The next edition will be from 10–13 July 2025. * '''Women's Open Championship''' (aka "Women's British Open") – From 2025, three weeks after the Evian Championship, allowing the tour to go on a European swing. The 2025 edition will be at Royal [[Porthcawl]] Golf Club in Wales from 31 July–3 August. ;Other significant events * '''Solheim Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in even-numbered years (from 2024) in August or September; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, [[Netherlands]] (just south of [['s-Hertogenbosch|Den Bosch]]) ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Valhalla Golf Club in [[Louisville|Louisville, Kentucky]] (slightly less than 20 mi/32 km east of downtown) * '''International Crown''' (team competition involving seven national teams, plus a "World" team made up of players not from one of the preceding seven countries) – From 2023, held in odd-numbered years in October ** 2025 – 23–26 October at New Korea Country Club in [[Goyang]], [[South Korea]] ===Handball=== {{see also|Handball in Europe}} Olympic or team Handball is a fast paced team sport that is mostly played indoors and enjoys considerable popularity in most of continental Europe. The world cup as well as the European championship are major events, second only to soccer. The best national leagues (found in Germany, France and the Nordic countries) battle out a club champion every year. There is also the [http://www.ehfcl.com EHF Champions League] which battles out Europe's top club team every year. === Ice hockey === {{seealso|Ice hockey in North America|Ice hockey in Europe}} ==== Men's ==== ;IIHF Men's World Championship * 2026: 15–31 May, [[Zurich|Zürich]] and [[Fribourg]], [[Switzerland]] * 2027: 14–30 May, [[Düsseldorf]] and [[Mannheim]], [[Germany]] * 2028: 12–28 May, [[Paris]] and [[Lyon]], [[France]] ==== Women's ==== ;IIHF Women's World Championship Since 2022, the top level of the Women's World Championships has been held annually, even in Winter Olympic years. From 1997–2021, the top level was an annual affair, but Winter Olympic years were skipped. * 2026: Host, dates, and sites TBA ===Motor racing=== {{seealso|Motor sport}} ====[[Formula One]]==== See the dedicated article. ====NASCAR==== A U.S. stock car racing organization, and the country's most popular form of motorsport. The term "stock car" is a historic reference; when NASCAR first organized races in the years immediately after World War II, the cars were in fact "stock"—exactly as purchased from dealers, with minimal safety-related changes. Over time, the cars changed to the point that they are only vaguely similar in external appearance to current street vehicles, with much more powerful engines and far more safety equipment. NASCAR now operates three national touring series: * Cup Series, the top series * Xfinity Series, the second level * Craftsman Truck Series, the third level, which races pickup trucks instead of cars; usually called simply the "Truck Series" Most races are held on oval tracks. For many years, no more than one or two Cup Series races were held on road courses, but since 2021 that number has gone up to six. Five Xfinity Series races and three Truck Series are also held on road courses. Before COVID-19, the Truck Series held one race in Canada, but border restrictions led to that date being transferred south of the border, and NASCAR has yet to return any of its U.S. national series to Canada (although it runs a separate Canadian series). The sport used to be centered in the Southeastern U.S., but beginning in the 1990s it expanded to become a national spectacle. A typical NASCAR event spans a long weekend, with two or even all three series holding races at one site. Unlike most sports, NASCAR's biggest event is the ''first'' race of the season: * '''Daytona 500''', held on the day before the Presidents Day holiday (which falls on the third Monday of February) at Daytona International Speedway in [[Daytona Beach]], [[Florida]] ====IndyCar==== A U.S.-based open-wheel racing series. It was established in its current form in 2008, when the IndyCar Series (launched in 1996) merged with the former Champcars series. The merger is a story in itself—as late as the early 1990s, open-wheel racing, governed by a body known as CART (which later became Champcars), was the most popular form of motorsport in the U.S. However, in 1994, the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the series' marquee event, the Indianapolis 500, had a bitter falling-out with CART, leading to the creation of the competing IndyCar series (which took the Indy 500 with it). The feud led many former open-wheel fans to abandon the sport, often for NASCAR. By the time the feud ended, attendance and sponsorship money for the sport were a fraction of what they had been only 15 years earlier, and only in the late 2010s had it begun to recover some of its original prominence. All of the series' races are held in the U.S. except for one on a street course in [[Toronto]]. The tracks are a mixture of ovals, road courses, and street circuits. The series' marquee event, as mentioned above, is: * '''Indianapolis 500''', held the day before the U.S. holiday of Memorial Day (which falls on the last Monday of May) at the [[Indianapolis]] Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana (a community completely surrounded by the city of Indianapolis) ==== Motorcycle speedway ==== Motorcycle speedway is a sport where lightweight motorcycles race each other on an oval-shaped track. It is most popular in [[Poland]] but also has a major presence in [[Australia]], [[Britain]], and [[Sweden]]. ===== Important events ===== *'''Speedway Grand Prix''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's late spring, summer, and early fall. *'''Speedway of Nations''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's summer (usually June or July). ===Rugby=== {{main|Rugby football}} ====Rugby union==== * 2025 '''Rugby Championship''', various locations in [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], and [[South Africa]]. Normally held August–October, with an abbreviated and time-shifted version held in years of the men's Rugby World Cup. * 2025: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to Australia, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in England, 22 August–27 September *** Note that World Rugby, the governing body for union, uses the "Rugby World Cup" name for both its men's and women's championship events. * 2026 '''Six Nations Championship''', February–March: ** [[Cardiff]], Principality Stadium (Millennium Stadium) ** [[Dublin]], Aviva Stadium ** [[Edinburgh]], Scottish Gas Murrayfield ** [[London]], Twickenham Stadium ** [[Rome]], Stadio Olimpico ** [[Saint-Denis (Île-de-France)|Saint-Denis]] ([[Paris]]), Stade de France * 2027 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2029: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to New Zealand, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2031 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in the United States, dates TBA * 2033: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to South Africa, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in the United States, dates TBA ====Rugby sevens==== * '''World Rugby Sevens Series''' and '''World Rugby Women's Sevens Series''': A series of 8 tournaments for national men's and women's sevens teams held at various locations around the world. In the current format, all events see both sexes compete on the same weekend. Marketed as the '''HSBC SVNS''' (with HSBC being the main corporate sponsor). World Rugby has scrapped the former Rugby World Cup Sevens, making the annual SVNS series its effective successor. ** '''[[Dubai]] Sevens''' – The traditional season opener, held on the weekend including the first Saturday in December at a stadium known as The Sevens. ** '''South Africa Sevens''' – Held on the weekend after the Dubai Sevens at [[Cape Town]] Stadium. ** '''Australian Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of January at [[Perth]] Rectangular Stadium (commercially HBF Park). ** '''Canada Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of February at BC Place in [[Vancouver/Yaletown-False Creek|downtown]] [[Vancouver]]. ** '''USA Sevens''' – Held the weekend after the Canada Sevens at Dignity Health Sports Park in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Carson|Carson, California]]. ** '''[[Hong Kong]] Sevens''' – The most famous men's event. Held in early April at Hong Kong Stadium in So Kon Po, in the [[Hong Kong/Eastern District|east]] of Hong Kong Island. ** '''[[Singapore]] Sevens''' – Held in early May at the National Stadium in Kallang, a district just to the [[Singapore/East Coast|northeast]] of the Downtown Core. ** '''[[Madrid]] Sevens''' – The final event, held at Estadio Metropolitano in the city's [[Madrid/Northern Suburbs|northern]] San Blas district. ====Rugby league==== =====National Rugby League===== *'''NRL Grand Final''' – The first or second Saturday of October at the Sydney Cricket Ground, just [[Sydney/Eastern Suburbs|east of the city centre]]. *'''State of Origin''' series – three matches in all in May–July. One match is normally held in the capital city of each state represented: Stadium Australia (aka Accor Stadium) in the [[Sydney/Sydney Olympic Park|Sydney Olympic Park]], and Lang Park (aka Suncorp Stadium) in [[Brisbane]]. The third game rotates between several cities outside New South Wales and Queensland: [[Adelaide]] (Adelaide Oval), [[Melbourne]] (Melbourne Cricket Ground), and [[Perth]] (Perth Stadium, aka Optus Stadium). =====Super League===== *'''Super League Grand Final''' – =====International===== *'''2026 Rugby League World Cup''' - [[France]] ===Soccer=== {{seealso|Association football|Association football in Europe}} ====Men's==== * '''2025''' FIFA U-17 World Cup, 3–27 November in [[Qatar]]. This becomes an annual event starting in 2025, with Qatar confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2025''' FIFA U-20 World Cup, 27 September–19 October in several cities in [[Chile]] (final most likely in [[Santiago]]) * '''2026''' FIFA World Cup in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], and [[Mexico]]; 11 June–19 July (final in [[East Rutherford]], New Jersey, near New York City) ====Women's==== * '''2025''' [https://www.fifa.com/u17womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, 17 October–8 November in [[Morocco]]. Starting in 2025, this becomes an annual event, with Morocco confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2026''' [https://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup],{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} 5–27 September in [[Poland]] * '''2027''' FIFA Women's World Cup in [[Brazil]], 24 June–25 July ===Table tennis=== [[China]] has been the world's dominant force in table tennis since at least the 1980s, so it comes as no surprise that the '''China Table Tennis Super League''' (CTTSL) is one of the best tournaments in the world, featuring not only the best players from all over China, but several top international players as well. The main international professional circuit is known as '''[https://worldtabletennis.com/ World Table Tennis]''' (WTT), of which the top level is known as the '''WTT Series'''. The most important WTT Series tournaments, offering the most world ranking points and prize money, are known as the '''Grand Smashes''', of which there are three, as of 2024: *'''[https://www.singaporesmash.com Singapore Smash]''' — held in March at the Singapore Sports Hub in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]] *'''[https://www.saudismash.com Saudi Smash]''' — held in May at King Abdullah Sports City in [[Jeddah]] *'''China Smash''' — held in late September and early October at Shougang Park in [[Beijing]] The season-concluding tournament of the WTT Series is the '''WTT Finals''', featuring the top 16 singles players and top 8 doubles pairs of each sex. The 2024 WTT Finals will be held from 20-24 November at the [[Kitakyushu]] General Gymnasium. Table tennis is also contested at the Summer Olympics, which is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport. The table tennis event at the Olympics consists of men's and women's singles, men's and women's teams, and a mixed doubles event. There is also the annual '''World Table Tennis Championships''', which is contested between individuals and doubles pairs in odd years, and between national teams in even years. ===Tennis=== ''See also [[Tennis]].'' Tennis has events throughout the calendar year. The top-level men's tour is the ATP Tour, with the WTA Tour as the women's counterpart. The men's and women's tours come together for the four '''Grand Slam''' events and a few other select tournaments throughout the year. The only players to have ever completed the Grand Slam are Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 & 1969) in the men's event, and Maureen Connolly (1953), Margaret Court (1970) and Steffi Graf (1988) in the women's event. In addition to these, the '''[https://www.daviscup.com/ Davis Cup]''' for men and '''[https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/ Billie Jean King Cup]''' (known as the Fed Cup until 2020) for women are the top events for national teams; these operate as multi-level leagues. The top levels (now known as the "Finals" in both events) were traditionally conducted as knockout tournaments, but now use a format similar to that of the FIFA World Cup, with all qualifying nations meeting at a single site for a group stage followed by a knockout stage. A player who wins all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year is said to have completed a '''golden slam''', and the only able-bodied player to have done so to date was Germany's Steffi Graf in 1988. (The doubles partnership of American identical twins Bob and Mike Bryan, aka the Bryan Brothers, won all of the required events consecutively, but their streak started with the 2012 Olympics, thus spanning two calendar years. Two wheelchair tennis players have completed the calendar-year golden slam, with their version replacing the able-bodied Olympics with the Paralympic Games.) At the professional level, tennis court surfaces can be divided into three types: grass, clay and hard. Each of these surfaces has a different bounce profile for the ball, thus favouring different playing styles. While all professional tennis players are competent on all three surfaces, some players are known to excel on particular surfaces; for instance, Rafael Nadal was known for his excellence on clay courts during his prime, while Roger Federer was well-known for his prowess on grass courts. Most ATP and WTA events feature both singles and doubles tournaments, with Grand Slams and the Olympics also featuring a mixed doubles tournament. ====Grand Slam events==== All four of these events are held over two weeks (15 days of play at all events except Wimbledon, still at 14). They are considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of tennis, and are even more prestigious than the Olympics. * '''[https://ausopen.com/ Australian Open]''': Ends on the last Sunday in January at [[Melbourne]] Park just outside the city centre. Frequently suffers from hot and humid weather in the southern summer, although this has been alleviated by retractable roofs on the three main courts. The final is held in the Rod Laver Arena, which is named after Rod Laver, the only player to have completed a grand slam twice, and the last man to achieve the feat when he did so in 1969. Has been played on hard courts since 1988. * '''[https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/ French Open]''' (also known as ''Roland Garros''): Held in late May and early June at ''Stade Roland Garros'' in the Bois de Boulogne in the [[Paris/16th arrondissement|16th arondissement]] of [[Paris]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event still held on clay courts. * '''[https://www.wimbledon.com/ Wimbledon]''': Begins on the first Monday in July and ends on the second Sunday following at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in the [[London/Wimbledon|Wimbledon]] neighbourhood of southwest [[London]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event held on grass courts, requiring all players to dress only in white (though women are now allowed to wear colored underwear to better hide menstruation), and many other traditions. The oldest and most prestigious of the Grand Slams. * '''[https://www.usopen.org/ US Open]''': Begins in August, on the Sunday that precedes the weekend of the US holiday of Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September. Ends on the Sunday following Labor Day. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in the northern part of the [[New York City]] borough of [[Queens]]. Has been played on hard courts since 1978. ====Season-ending championships==== Both the ATP and WTA have season-ending events for the very top players, with eight players qualifying for the finals in singles and eight teams in doubles. The competitors are divided into two groups of four, each playing a round-robin within the group. The top two finishers in each group advance to the semifinals, with the winners of each semifinal contesting the final. * '''[https://www.nittoatpfinals.com/en ATP Finals]''': Mid-November at Pala Alpitour (aka Palasport Olimpico) in [[Turin]], Italy. * '''[https://www.wtatennis.com/wta-finals WTA Finals]''': Late October–early November in [[Riyadh]], Saudi Arabia. In the mid-2010s, the WTA Tour launched the '''WTA Elite Trophy''', a second season-ending event for players immediately below those who qualify for the WTA Finals. It was suspended because Covid-19 from 2020 to 2020.. ====Other top-tier events==== Both the ATP and WTA have a multi-level hierarchy of events, with the Grand Slams at the top, followed by the season-ending championships and then the events shown here (with other levels below these in both cases). The two tours have differing terminology for this level: * ATP: Nine events known as the "ATP Tour Masters 1000". All top players are required to enter these events (barring injury or other misfortune), with the exception of the Monte-Carlo Masters. * WTA: The "WTA 1000" was established in 2021 by the merger of the former "Premier Mandatory" and "Premier 5" events. Since 2024, there have been ten WTA 1000 tournaments, all of which are mandatory. * Olympics: The tennis event at the Olympics is less prestigious than the Grand Slams, and many top players choose to skip it, while those who compete often do not take it seriously and lose to little-known lower-ranked opponents. Moreover, the Olympics typically falls in the middle of the U.S. hard court season, meaning that players miss important tournaments and lose valuable ranking points in their quest to qualify for the season-ending championships should they choose to participate. That said, there is a special prestige attached to winning all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in a single calendar year, known as a golden slam. Unlike in the professional circuits, doubles pairs at the Olympics must be from the same country. With that in mind, here are the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events: * '''[[Qatar]] Ladies Open''': Mid-February at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in [[Doha]]. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Dubai]] Tennis Championships''': Late February at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour also plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''Indian Wells Masters''' (men) and '''Indian Wells Open''' (women): Early March in [[Indian Wells]], California (near Palm Springs). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Miami Open''': Late March–early April at Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], Florida (north of the city of Miami). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Monte-Carlo Masters''': Mid-April at Monte Carlo Country Club in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, next to Monaco. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Madrid]] Open''': Mid-May at Caja Mágica in Madrid. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Italian Open''': Week following the Madrid Open at Foro Italico in Rome. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Canadian Open''': Early August at Stade IGA in Montreal and Sobeys Stadium (formerly Aviva Centre) in Toronto. In odd-numbered years, the men play in Montreal and the women in Toronto, and vice versa in even-numbered years. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Cincinnati Masters''' (men) and '''Cincinnati Open''' (women): Week after the Canadian Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in [[Mason (Ohio)|Mason, Ohio]], northeast of [[Cincinnati]]. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Wuhan]] Open''': Last week of September at Optics Valley International Tennis Center. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''China Open''': Start of October, immediately following the Wuhan Open, at the National Tennis Center in [[Beijing]]. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''[[Shanghai]] Masters''': Week after the China Open at Qi Zhong Stadium in the southwest of the city. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Paris]] Masters''': Late October–early November at AccorHotels Arena in the [[Paris/12th arrondissement|12th arrondissement]]. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' The Grand Slams, tour finals and ATP Masters 1000/WTA 1000 tournaments are collectively known as the '''Big Titles'''. Serbia's Novak Djokovic is the only singles player of either sex to have won all the Big Titles in the course of his career, and was said to have "completed the game of tennis" by adding the Olympic gold medal to those in 2024. Three other men's players, all retired, have won all of the Big Titles in doubles—Canadian Daniel Nestor as an individual, and the aforementioned Bryan Brothers as a team. All also have Olympic gold medals in doubles. Djokovic and the Bryans have also been on national teams that won the Davis Cup. ==Stay safe== Take precautions typical for [[Stay safe#Mass gatherings|large crowds]] and major events, with risk factors such as [[pickpocketing]], [[infectious diseases]], drunk brawls and stampedes. '''Hooliganism''' is organized violence associated with sport fandom, in particular prevalent in [[association football in Europe|men's football in Europe]]. The risk of hooliganism differs between countries and teams, and might be difficult to assess from a neutral source. {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Sports}} 52jbrcikxbx3aznym9v86dgejebb2jo 5090951 5090950 2025-07-10T16:33:14Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Pan American Games */ 5090951 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|MalmöFF Fans banner.jpg|caption=Fans of Malmö FF, a Swedish football team}} '''Spectator sports''' are those where the players are greatly outnumbered by their audience, often a thousandfold and sometimes a millionfold for the biggest events. These usually involve travel, often long-distance, so there is a distinct experience of sports travel for those crowds, covered on this page. See [[Sports]] for those you participate in yourself, watched (if at all) by a few family members or ex-players. See [[Activities]] for the broader sphere of mostly non-competitive pastimes such as bird-watching. == Understand == [[File:Olympic Torch 2010.jpg | thumb | 300px | Lighting the Olympic flame from the sun]] Spectator sports have a long history: in the western tradition this is exemplified by the ancient Olympic Games. But mass travelling audiences only emerged in the 19th century, with the development of leisure time, disposable income, and public transport. Indeed the Olympics are a 19th-century reinvention, with the ancient event lapsing around 400 AD and the modern version launching in Athens in 1896. In the 19th and 20th centuries, three tribes emerged: an elite of professional players, an audience watching them direct or on TV or internet, and the "grassroots" playing at amateur or junior level. Of course there is overlap, but the stark feature today is how different those worlds have become; certainly their travel experiences could not be more different. The divergence caused great soul-searching in sports associations, and sometimes acrimonious splits. It's no spoiler to say that big money and big business won, and spectator sports are designed to extract their followers' cash not only by gate receipts, but by advertising and sponsorship, by merchandising, by broadcasting rights, and by gambling. Spectator sports are also a matter of national prestige and policy: countries market themselves as sports destination, and by "sports-washing" deflect attention from their unattractive regimes. The live audience for big events is nowadays greatly outnumbered by TV and internet viewers, and developments in virtual reality promise to take this further. But for the time being, the crowd is essential to the event. They descend in partisan masses upon the host city, throng the pubs and transport hubs, and book up accommodation. Their chants and slogans, team regalia, cheers and boos, all create an intense atmosphere. Alcohol-fuelled violence has too often been a by-product. Early spectators simply milled around the playing area, craning to see the action. It's still like that in golf, where crowds follow their favourite player from hole to hole, and in on-road races for cycling and motor sports where the biggest audience is close to the finish line but people find vantage points all along the way. Larger crowds made this unmanageable for most sports, so embankments then stadiums were built: modern examples are huge and architecturally exciting. Stadiums may be multi-purpose or dedicated to one sport, and a big division is between those for ball games, and those incorporating a running track, which makes them suitable for Olympics but distances the crowd. They may be "borrowed" for events, for instance international rugby matches may use a soccer stadium simply for extra capacity. The upkeep of a stadium (even a small one) is usually part-financed by a sponsorship deal, so they change their names for the length of the deal, sometimes just for a specific event. Signage on streets and public transport can't keep up with this so be sure to check not only which stadium you're going to, but any other names it's locally known by. Every big city has a sports or other mass event at least once a week, so they are well-practised in signage, stewarding and crowd safety, extra and diverted transport, and policing. See individual city pages for accommodation, and other things to see and do there. See [[Events]] for the very largest, which embroil entire countries for days on end. These draw a travelling army of fans following their teams from city to city as the tournament progresses, so even if you don't plan to attend, you have to factor the event into your travel plans. ==Articles about watching sports== <div style="{{column-width|25em}}"> * [[Spectator sports in Japan]] * [[American football]] * [[Association football]] ** [[Association football in Europe]] * [[Australian rules football]] * [[Baseball]] ** [[Baseball in the United States]] * [[Basketball in North America]] * [[Boxing]] * [[Bullfighting]] * [[Cricket]] * [[Field hockey]] * [[Formula One]] * [[Golf]] * [[Handball in Europe]] * [[Horse racing]] * [[Ice hockey in Europe]] * [[Ice hockey in North America]] * [[Martial arts]] * [[Motorcycle speedway]] * [[Olympic Games]] * [[Rugby football]] * [[Tennis]] </div> ==Events with multiple sports== ===African Games === The African Games are held among the countries of Africa. * '''2027''': [[Cairo]], Egypt, 20 January–7 February. * '''2031''': [[Kinshasa]], DR Congo (dates TBA). ===Asian Games=== The [http://www.ocasia.org Asian Games]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} among the countries of Asia; the second largest multi-sports games after the Summer Olympics. Features some sports that are popular in Asia but not contested at the Olympics such as wushu (Chinese martial arts), kabbadi, sepak takraw and dragon boat racing, as well as some globally-popular non-Olympic sports such as tenpin bowling and squash. The Asian Games also have added several popular esports as official medal events. The Winter Asian Games are operated by the same body but feature only winter sports. Normally held in the year before the Winter Olympics. * '''2026''': 19 September–4 October, [[Nagoya]], [[Japan]] * '''2030''': [[Doha]], [[Qatar]] * '''2034''': [[Riyadh]], [[Saudi Arabia]] <!-- ===Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games=== --> ===Bolivarian Games=== * '''2025''': November 23 to December 7 in [[Ayacucho]] and [[Lima]], [[Peru]] ===Central American Games === The Central American Games, only involving the seven nations of [[Central America]]. * '''2025''': 15–31 October, [[Guatemala City]], Guatemala ===Central America and Caribbean Games === The [https://inside.fei.org/fei/games/cont-reg-games/central-american-caribbean Central America and Caribbean Games] — the second oldest international multi-sport games. * '''2026''': 24 July — 8 August, [[Santo Domingo]], [[Dominican Republic]] ===Commonwealth Games=== The [https://www.commonwealthsport.com Commonwealth Games] among the countries of the [[British Empire#Commonwealth countries|Commonwealth of Nations]]; the fourth-largest multi-sports games. Unlike other multi-sport events, para-sports events are held as part of the main games with the able-bodied sports events. Features some non-Olympic sports that are popular in the Commonwealth such as lawn bowls, squash and netball. [[England]], [[Scotland]], [[Wales]] and [[Northern Ireland]] send separate teams to the Commonwealth Games, in contrast to the Olympics where they send a unified [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]] team. The next games in 2026 had been scheduled for the Australian state of Victoria, but the state government pulled out in July 2023, citing financial concerns. [[Glasgow]], Scotland was announced as the new host in September 2024; the 2026 games will be considerably scaled down from past editions, with only 10 sports and no athletes' village. === Deaflympics=== The [https://www.deaflympics.com Deaflympics] is an IOC-sanctioned event for athletes with hearing impairments. Although the sports are largely the same as the Olympics, modifications are made to not rely on sounds such as starter's guns, spoken commands or referee whistles. Separate summer and winter games are held. * '''2025 Summer Deaflympics''': 15–26 November in [[Tokyo]], Japan ===European Games=== The [http://www.european-games.org/ European Games] among [[Europe]]an countries. The newest continental-level multi-sport event, with its first edition in 2015. Also in the year before the Summer Olympics. * '''2027''' in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]; dates TBA ===Gay Games=== The [https://www.gaygames.org Gay Games] attract mostly LGBT athletes, though are open to all. * '''2026''': 27 June to 4 July [[Valencia]], [[Spain]] * '''2030''': Host to be announced in November 2025 ===Jeux de la Francophonie=== [https://www.jeux.francophonie.org Jeux de la Francophonie] among the countries of La Francophonie. The Canadian provinces of [[Quebec]] and [[New Brunswick]] send separate teams from the Canadian team, and the Belgian team is restricted to sending Francophone athletes. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. *'''2027''': July 23 to August 1, [[Yerevan]], Armenia ===National Games of China=== The National Games of China a multi-sport competition between [[China]]'s [[Chinese provinces and regions|provincial level units]], including [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], as well as teams representing the Chinese military and various Chinese industry groups. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. The standards of the diving and table tennis competitions in particular are regarded by most to be even higher than the Olympics. * '''2025''': [[Guangdong]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] <!-- ===Lusofonia Games=== The [http://www.acolop.org/ Lusofonia Games] among the world's Portuguese-speaking countries. Last held in 2014. ===Mediterranean Games=== --> === Maccabiah Games=== The [https://www.maccabiah.com/en/ Maccabiah Games] for Jewish athletes from 85 nations, and Israelis regardless of ethnicity or religion, are the third-largest multi-sports event by number of competitors after the Summer Olympics and Asian Games. Always held in Israel. * '''2025''': July, Israel ===Olympic Games=== {{main|Olympic Games}} * [[Milan–Cortina 2026|'''2026''': Winter Olympics]], 6 – 22 Feb, [[Milan]] and [[Cortina d'Ampezzo|Cortina]], [[Italy]] * [[Los Angeles 2028|'''2028''': Summer Olympics]], 21 Jul - 6 Aug, [[Los Angeles]], [[United States of America|USA]], with softball and canoe slalom to be held in [[Oklahoma City]] * [[French Alps 2030|'''2030''': Winter Olympics]], 1 - 17 Feb, multiple locations in the [[French Alps]], plus [[Nice]], [[France]] and [[Turin]], [[Italy]] * [[Brisbane 2032|'''2032''': Summer Olympics]], 23 Jul - 8 Aug, [[Brisbane]], [[Australia]] * [[Salt Lake City–Utah 2034|'''2034''': Winter Olympics]], 10 - 26 Feb, [[Salt Lake City]], [[United States of America|USA]], with other venues scattered around the state of [[Utah]] ===Pacific Games=== * The [http://websites.sportstg.com/assoc_page.cgi?c=2-2642-0-0-0&sID=24021 Pacific Games] among the countries of [[Oceania]] except Australia and New Zealand. * '''2027''': Pīraʻe, [[Tahiti]] ===Pan American Games=== The [http://www.panamsports.org Pan American Games] among the countries of the Americas. * '''2027''': 16 July — 1 August in [[Lima]], Peru ===Southeast Asian Games=== The Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), held every two years in odd-numbered years, among the countries of [[Southeast Asia]]. Features some sports that are only popular in Southeast Asia such as sepak takraw and silat. * '''2025''': 7–19 December, [[Bangkok]], Thailand * '''2027''': [[Kuala Lumpur]], Malaysia * '''2029''': Singapore * '''2031''': Laos * '''2033''': Philippines === Special Olympics=== The [https://www.specialolympics.org Special Olympics] are IOC-sanctioned events for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities. ==== Special Olympics World Summer Games ==== * '''2027''': Dates TBA, [[Perth]], [[Australia]] * '''2031''': Dates TBA, [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] ==== Special Olympics World Winter Games ==== * '''2025''': Dates TBA, [[Turin]] and other venues in the [[Piedmont]] region, [[Italy]] * '''2029''': Dates TBA, [[Chur]] and other venues in the [[Graubünden]] canton, [[Switzerland]] <!-- ===Student Games=== --> ===World Games=== Held every four years in the year after the summer Olympic Games. No events overlap with any contested in the Olympics. Many of the sports are not part of the Olympic program at all; the World Games also feature many non-Olympic disciplines or events within Olympic sports. The events are organized by the International World Games Association, which is recognized by the IOC. * '''2025''': 7–17 July, [[Chengdu]], China ==Events for a single sport== ===American football=== {{main|American football}} ==== National Football League ==== * '''Super Bowl LX''' – 8 February 2026 at Levi's Stadium in [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]], [[California]] (home to the San Francisco 49ers). * '''Super Bowl LXI''' – 14 February 2027 at SoFi Stadium in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Inglewood]], California (home to the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams). * '''Super Bowl LXII''' – Date TBA in February 2028 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in [[Atlanta/Downtown|downtown]] [[Atlanta]], Georgia (home to the Atlanta Falcons). =====NFL International Series===== At least five regular season games, with three in [[London]] (England) and at least two in other countries. The NFL has contracts with two London venues, namely Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The nominal home teams for the 2025 games have been announced (the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley, the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets at Spurs, the Indianapolis Colts in Berlin, the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin). The date for the Dublin game has been announced; other dates are expected to be announced in spring 2025.<!--Following standard US usage, the second team listed is the designated "home" team.--> ======NFL games in Mexico====== The NFL first held a regular season game in Mexico in 2005. Despite good attendance, the league did not return until the 2016 season, the first of what was meant to be a three-year deal to hold one game each season in that country. With both the 2016 and 2017 games selling out, the deal was extended through the 2021 season with an eye to possibly play more than one game per season in future years. All Mexico games thus far have been held in Estadio Azteca in [[Mexico City]]. The most recent Mexico game was in 2022. With Estadio Azteca being renovated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there will be no Mexico games until at least the 2026 season. ======NFL games in Germany====== In February 2022, the NFL announced a four-year agreement to expand the NFL International Series in Germany. The games were originally to be split between the Allianz Arena in Munich and Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt. The first game was held in the 2022 season. With the Mexico game being put on hold due to stadium renovations, there were two Germany games in 2023, both in Frankfurt. The 2024 game was held in Munich with the Carolina Panthers "hosting" and defeating the New York Giants. Berlin is joining the list of Germany hosts, with Olympiastadion set to host its first game at a so-far-undetermined date in 2025. ======NFL games in Brazil====== The NFL announced in November 2023 it would extend its International Series to Brazil. The first game in that country was held on September 6, 2024, with the Philadelphia Eagles "hosting" and defeating the Green Bay Packers at Arena Corinthians in [[São Paulo]]. Another Brazil game will be held on September 5, 2025, again at Arena Corinthians, with the Los Angeles Chargers as "host". ======NFL games in Spain====== Shortly after announcing the expansion to Brazil, the NFL extended the series to Spain. The first game in Spain will be held in 2025 at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in [[Madrid]] with the Miami Dolphins as "host". ======NFL games in Ireland====== The NFL has also extended the series to Ireland, with the first game being "hosted" by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 at Croke Park in [[Dublin]]. ======NFL games in Australia====== In 2026, the NFL expands its "International Series" to Australia, with the first game of the regular season being played at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground with the Los Angeles Rams "hosting". ==== US college football ==== * '''College Football Playoff National Championship''' ** 2026: Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], [[Florida]] (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 19 ** 2027: Allegiant Stadium in [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|Paradise]], [[Nevada]] (home of the Las Vegas Raiders); January 25 ** 2028: Caesars Superdome in [[New Orleans]], [[Louisiana]] (home of the New Orleans Saints); January 24 ** 2029: Raymond James Stadium in [[Tampa]], [[Florida]] (home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers); January 22 ** 2030: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 21 Each of these games is the championship for the previous calendar year. The bulk of the American football season takes place in the northern hemisphere fall/autumn. ====European League of Football==== * '''ELF Championship Game''' – 2025 edition at Neckarstadion (aka MHPArena) in [[Stuttgart]], Germany at a date in September to be determined ====German Football League==== * [http://www.germanbowl.de/ German Bowl] – 2025 host TBA ===Australian rules football=== {{main|Australian rules football}} ====Australian Football League==== * '''2025 AFL Grand Final''' at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground – 27 September ===Badminton=== Badminton is generally most popular in Asia, and Asian countries generally dominate the international tournaments; Denmark is the only non-Asian country to be considered a badminton powerhouse. Although badminton is popularly regarded as a backyard sport in the United States and often played outdoors recreationally, professional badminton is almost always played indoors. The '''[https://bwfworldtour.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour]''' is the premier professional tournament circuit, and is divided into six tiers. The top tier is occupied by a single tournament: the season-concluding '''[https://bwfworldtourfinals.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour Finals]''' in December every year. This is planned to be held in [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] until at least 2026. All BWF World Tour tournaments feature both men's and women's tournaments, as well as a mixed doubles tournament. The next tier is the BWF World Tour Super 1000, comprising the four most important tournaments on the circuit apart from the Finals, offering the largest number of ranking points and amount of prize money. As of 2024, they are as follows: *'''Malaysia Open''' — held in January every year at the Putra Indoor Stadium in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. *'''[https://www.allenglandbadminton.com All England Open]''' — the oldest international badminton tournament in the world, and the most prestigious tournament on the circuit. Held in March every year at the Arena Birmingham in [[Birmingham]]. *'''China Open''' — held in September every year. Since 2018, has been held at the Xincheng Gymnasium in [[Changzhou]]. *'''Indonesia Open''' — held in November every year at the Istora Gelora Bung Karno in [[Jakarta]]. Below that is the BWF World Tour 750, which offer less ranking points and prize money, but generally still attract most of the top players. *'''China Masters''' — held in November at the Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium in [[Shenzhen]]. *'''[https://denmarkopen.dk/ Denmark Open]''' — held in October at the Arena Fyn in [[Odense]]. *'''[https://www.yonexifb.com/uk/home French Open]''' — usually held in October, but the 2024 event was held in March at the Adidas Arena in [[Paris]] as a trial event for the Olympics. *'''[https://daihatsu-japan-open.com/ Japan Open]''' — held in August at the Yokohama Arena in [[Yokohama]]. *'''India Open''' — held in January at the K. D. Jadhav Indoor Hall in [[Delhi]]. *'''Singapore Open''' — held in late May or early June at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]]. The '''[https://bwfworldchampionships.bwfbadminton.com World Championships]''' are held every year except in Olympic years. Badminton has been an Olympic sport since 1992, with the Olympics generally being considered the premier tournament in the sport. There is also the '''Thomas Cup''' for men's national teams, and the '''Uber Cup''' for women's national teams, which mostly operate as multi-level leagues. ===Baseball=== {{seealso|Baseball|Baseball in the United States}} * World Baseball Classic * '''[https://www.seriedelcaribe.net/ Caribbean Series]''' (''Serie del Caribe'') is a championship tournament held in February each year. Champion teams from professional baseball leagues of various Caribbean and Latin American countries compete for the championship. * '''Little League World Series''' – Held over 10 days, ending on the last Sunday of August, in [[Williamsport|South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA]]. ===Basketball=== ====NBA==== {{seealso|Basketball in North America}} ====US college basketball==== The biggest event in US college (university) basketball is the NCAA Division I men's tournament, featuring 68 teams. The Division I women's tournament draws considerably less interest, but is still the biggest event in American women's college sports. The men's tournament begins on the Tuesday preceding the third Thursday in March (in terms of dates, no earlier than March 13 and no later than March 19) in [[Dayton|Dayton, Ohio]] with an eight-team round marketed as the First Four, featuring two games on Tuesday and two on Wednesday. The winners of these four games join the remaining 60 tournament teams for the first round, which starts on the third Thursday in March. The women's tournament expanded from 64 teams to 68 starting in 2022, with its own First Four; it starts the day after the men's tournament. The four-team final rounds of these tournaments are known as the Final Four. Future Final Four sites are: ;Men * 2026 – April 4 and 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in [[Indianapolis]] * 2027 – April 3 and 5 at Ford Field in [[Detroit]] * 2028 – April 1 and 3 at Allegiant Stadium just [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|west]] of the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Las Vegas Strip]] * 2029 – March 31 and April 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis * 2030 – April 6 and 8 at AT&T Stadium in [[Arlington (Texas)|Arlington, Texas]], between [[Dallas]] and [[Fort Worth]] ;Women * 2026 – April 3 and 5 at PHX Arena in [[Phoenix]] * 2027 – April 2 and 4 at Nationwide Arena in [[Columbus|Columbus, Ohio]] * 2028 – March 31 and April 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis * 2029 – March 30 and April 1 at the Alamodome in San Antonio * 2030 – April 5 and 7 at Moda Center in [[Portland (Oregon)|Portland, Oregon]] * 2031 – April 4 and 6 at American Airlines Center in Dallas ====EuroLeague==== The EuroLeague is basketball's equivalent to the UEFA Champions League in association football (soccer), featuring top club teams from throughout Europe (note that in sports, "Europe" includes several countries either partly or totally in Asia, most notably Russia, Turkey, and Israel). The season starts in October and ends with the '''EuroLeague Final Four''' in May. * 2026 – May 22 and 24 in either Athens or Belgrade (site TBA) ===Canadian football=== {{seealso|American football#Canadian Football League}} * '''112th Grey Cup''' at Princess Auto Stadium in [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]] (home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers); November 16, 2025 * '''113th Grey Cup''' at McMahon Stadium in [[Calgary/Northwest|northwest]] [[Calgary]], [[Alberta]] (home of the Calgary Stampeders); November 15, 2026 ===Cricket=== {{main|Cricket}} * '''[https://www.lords.org/lords/our-history/the-ashes The Ashes]''' — November 2025–January 2026 at the following venues in [[Australia]]: ** [[Perth]] Stadium, in the [[Perth/The Suburbs|northern suburb]] of Burswood — 21–25 November 2025 ** The Gabba, in the [[Brisbane]] suburb of Wooloongabba — 4–8 December 2025 ** [[Adelaide]] Oval, in the [[Adelaide/City and North Adelaide|parklands]] between the central business district and North Adelaide — 17–21 December 2025 ** [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground, in Yarra Park in the city's [[Melbourne/Inner east|inner east]] — 26–30 December 2025. The traditional Boxing Day Test at the MCG is one of the sport's most iconic events. ** [[Sydney]] Cricket Ground, in Moore Park in the [[Sydney/City East|inner eastern suburbs]] — 4—8 January 2026 * '''Cricket World Cup''' — October—November 2027, co-hosted by [[South Africa]], [[Zimbabwe]] and [[Namibia]]. ===Cycling=== Road bicycle racing is broadly divided into two race types: * '''Single-day races''' — Exactly as the name implies, these races are held on a single day at around the same time each year. Some have fixed courses; more have fixed starting and end points with courses varying slightly from year to year. The most prestigious races of this type are often called "classics", but the term is poorly defined. * '''Stage races''' — Held over more than one day, with one race each day known as a "stage" (though some races, notably the Grand Tours, will include one or two rest days). While there is an award ceremony at the end of each stage, the overall winner is determined by "general classification"—the cumulative time for the entire race. The most famous road racing events for bicycles in the world are the three stage races known as Grand Tours. They are raced in Italy, France, and Spain but commonly also include legs in other countries. These tours, each featuring 21 stages, involve only men's races, and are even more prestigious than the road cycling events at the Olympics. * '''[https://www.giroditalia.it Giro d'Italia]''' — around Italy, usually takes place in May. * '''[https://www.letour.fr/en/ Tour de France]''' — around France, usually takes place in July. The most prestigious of the three. * '''[https://www.lavuelta.es/en Vuelta a España]''' — around Spain, usually takes place in August. While countless single-day races are run, both throughout Europe and worldwide, the most famous are the five races known as "Monuments", all of which were first held between 1890 and 1915. * '''[[Milan]]–[[Sanremo|San Remo]]''' (Italian: ''Milano–Sanremo'') – The first major classic of the year, usually on the third Saturday of March on a course between the two named locations. It's considered "the sprinters' classic" because its mostly flat course favors that type of rider. * '''Tour of [[Flanders]]''' (Dutch: ''Ronde van Vlaanderen'') – Held in early April through [[Belgium]]'s Flanders region between [[Antwerp]] and [[Oudenaarde]]. The first of the "cobbled classics", with many key sections (including several short but very steep hills) paved in cobblestones. * '''[[Paris]]–[[Roubaix]]''' – Probably ''the'' most famous single-day race, it's known as the "Queen of the Classics" and ''l'Enfer du Nord'' ("The Hell of the North [of France]"). Held one week after the Tour of Flanders, it features even longer stretches of cobblestone roads, making it arguably the hardest single-day race on riders. * '''[[Liège]]–[[Bastogne]]–Liège''' – Held in late April in Belgium, this race is nearly as hard on riders as Paris–Roubaix, but for different reasons, namely a long course with numerous short but steep hills in the [[Ardennes]] region, as well as an uphill finish in Liège. * '''Giro di [[Lombardy|Lombardia]]''' (officially ''Il Lombardia'') – The year's final Monument, held in October over a course that varies from year to year, with only a few fixed locations, most famously the arduous climb to the Madonna del Ghisallo church in Magreglio near Lake Como. The race ends in either [[Bergamo]] or [[Como]]. Known as "the climbers' classic" from its many significant climbs. Cycling is also featured at the Summer Olympics in 4 disciplines; track cycling, road cycling, mountain biking and BMX. With the exception of the men's road cycling discipline, these are generally considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of cycling. <!-- ===Gaelic football=== --> ===Golf=== {{main|Golf}} The most important professional golf tournaments in the world are knowns as the '''majors''', offering the largest amounts of prize money and world ranking points. The men's and women's professional circuits are run separately, with a separate set of majors for each sex. The most important men's professional circuit is the U.S.-based PGA Tour, while the corresponding professional circuit for women is the LPGA Tour, also based in the U.S. The PGA and LPGA also sanction some tournaments outside the U.S., and some tournaments are co-sanctioned by multiple professional circuits. For instance, all the men's majors are co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour, the European Tour and the Japan Golf Tour. Golf was an Olympic sport 1900–1904, and has been one since 2016. The Olympic golf tournament is less prestigious than the majors and offers no prize money, and many of the top male golfers choose to skip it, but the top female golfers usually participate. ====Men's==== ;Major championships Three of the four men's major championships are held in the U.S. The only exception is The Open Championship, also known as the "British Open". Each tournament is played from Thursday through Sunday, barring weather-related delays, and has a fixed weekend on the calendar. Tickets for practice sessions during the days before the tournament starts are also sold. A golfer who wins all four majors in the same calendar year is said to have completed the '''Grand Slam''', which has yet to be achieved (Tiger Woods won all four consecutively, but spanning two calendar years starting from the 2000 U.S. Open to the 2001 Masters Tournament; at the time, the PGA Championship was the year's final major, instead of the second). * '''Masters Tournament''' (always held at Augusta National Golf Club in [[Augusta (Georgia)|Augusta]], [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]) – ends on the second Sunday in April. The next edition is set for 9–12 April 2026. * '''PGA Championship''' – ends on the third Sunday of May; next edition to be held 14–17 May 2026 at Aronimink Golf Club in the [[Philadelphia]] suburb of Newtown Square, [[Pennsylvania]]. ** Sites have been set through 2034, with the exception of 2033. * '''U.S. Open''' – ends on the third Sunday in June; next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in [[Southampton (New York)|Southampton]], New York (near the eastern end of [[Long Island]], about 85 miles/140 km from Midtown Manhattan). ** Sites have been set through 2042, as well as for most subsequent years through 2051. * '''The Open Championship''' – played during the week containing the third Friday in July; next edition to be held 17–20 July 2025 at Royal [[Portrush]] Golf Club in [[County Antrim]], [[Northern Ireland]] (about 60 mi/100 km from [[Belfast]] and 35 mi/60 km from [[Derry|Derry/Londonderry]]. The tournament returns to the historic Old Course at [[St Andrews]] every few years, and is of special significance when it does. ** The 2026 edition will be played at Royal Birkdale in [[Southport]] from 16–19 July. ** The 2027 edition will be held at the Old Course from 15–18 July. ;Other significant events * '''Ryder Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in odd-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2025 – 26–28 September at the Black Course of [[Bethpage]] State Park on [[Long Island]] (about 35 miles/56 km east of Midtown Manhattan) ** 2027 – 17-19 September at [[Adare]] Manor in [[County Limerick]], [[Ireland]] ** 2029 – Dates TBA in September at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota (a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]) *'''Presidents Cup''' (competition between a USA team and an "International" team of non-Europeans) – Held in even-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and a non-European country ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Medinah Country Club in [[Medinah]], [[Illinois]] (a northwest suburb of [[Chicago]]). ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia (a [[Melbourne/South-Eastern suburbs|southeastern suburb]] of [[Melbourne]]). ** 2030 – Dates TBA at Bellerive Country Club in Town and Country, [[Missouri]] (in the West County region of [[St. Louis County]], which borders on the city of [[St. Louis]]). ====Women's==== ;Major championships Three of the five women's major championships are held in the U.S. As with the men's major championships, all are held from Thursday through Sunday (barring weather delays). * '''Chevron Championship''' (held at The Club at Carlton Woods in [[The Woodlands]], Texas, about 30 mi/50 km north of [[Houston]]) – The next edition is expected to be 23–26 April 2026. * '''U.S. Women's Open''' – Next edition to be held 4–7 June 2026 at Riviera Country Club in the [[Los Angeles]] neighborhood of [[Pacific Palisades]]. ** Future sites have been set through 2036, and for several subsequent years through 2048. * '''Women's PGA Championship''' – Next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]. * '''The Evian Championship''' (always held at the Evian Resort Golf Club in [[Evian|Évian-les-Bains]], [[France]]) – Typically held in July, though the dates haven't been consistent from year to year. The next edition will be from 10–13 July 2025. * '''Women's Open Championship''' (aka "Women's British Open") – From 2025, three weeks after the Evian Championship, allowing the tour to go on a European swing. The 2025 edition will be at Royal [[Porthcawl]] Golf Club in Wales from 31 July–3 August. ;Other significant events * '''Solheim Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in even-numbered years (from 2024) in August or September; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, [[Netherlands]] (just south of [['s-Hertogenbosch|Den Bosch]]) ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Valhalla Golf Club in [[Louisville|Louisville, Kentucky]] (slightly less than 20 mi/32 km east of downtown) * '''International Crown''' (team competition involving seven national teams, plus a "World" team made up of players not from one of the preceding seven countries) – From 2023, held in odd-numbered years in October ** 2025 – 23–26 October at New Korea Country Club in [[Goyang]], [[South Korea]] ===Handball=== {{see also|Handball in Europe}} Olympic or team Handball is a fast paced team sport that is mostly played indoors and enjoys considerable popularity in most of continental Europe. The world cup as well as the European championship are major events, second only to soccer. The best national leagues (found in Germany, France and the Nordic countries) battle out a club champion every year. There is also the [http://www.ehfcl.com EHF Champions League] which battles out Europe's top club team every year. === Ice hockey === {{seealso|Ice hockey in North America|Ice hockey in Europe}} ==== Men's ==== ;IIHF Men's World Championship * 2026: 15–31 May, [[Zurich|Zürich]] and [[Fribourg]], [[Switzerland]] * 2027: 14–30 May, [[Düsseldorf]] and [[Mannheim]], [[Germany]] * 2028: 12–28 May, [[Paris]] and [[Lyon]], [[France]] ==== Women's ==== ;IIHF Women's World Championship Since 2022, the top level of the Women's World Championships has been held annually, even in Winter Olympic years. From 1997–2021, the top level was an annual affair, but Winter Olympic years were skipped. * 2026: Host, dates, and sites TBA ===Motor racing=== {{seealso|Motor sport}} ====[[Formula One]]==== See the dedicated article. ====NASCAR==== A U.S. stock car racing organization, and the country's most popular form of motorsport. The term "stock car" is a historic reference; when NASCAR first organized races in the years immediately after World War II, the cars were in fact "stock"—exactly as purchased from dealers, with minimal safety-related changes. Over time, the cars changed to the point that they are only vaguely similar in external appearance to current street vehicles, with much more powerful engines and far more safety equipment. NASCAR now operates three national touring series: * Cup Series, the top series * Xfinity Series, the second level * Craftsman Truck Series, the third level, which races pickup trucks instead of cars; usually called simply the "Truck Series" Most races are held on oval tracks. For many years, no more than one or two Cup Series races were held on road courses, but since 2021 that number has gone up to six. Five Xfinity Series races and three Truck Series are also held on road courses. Before COVID-19, the Truck Series held one race in Canada, but border restrictions led to that date being transferred south of the border, and NASCAR has yet to return any of its U.S. national series to Canada (although it runs a separate Canadian series). The sport used to be centered in the Southeastern U.S., but beginning in the 1990s it expanded to become a national spectacle. A typical NASCAR event spans a long weekend, with two or even all three series holding races at one site. Unlike most sports, NASCAR's biggest event is the ''first'' race of the season: * '''Daytona 500''', held on the day before the Presidents Day holiday (which falls on the third Monday of February) at Daytona International Speedway in [[Daytona Beach]], [[Florida]] ====IndyCar==== A U.S.-based open-wheel racing series. It was established in its current form in 2008, when the IndyCar Series (launched in 1996) merged with the former Champcars series. The merger is a story in itself—as late as the early 1990s, open-wheel racing, governed by a body known as CART (which later became Champcars), was the most popular form of motorsport in the U.S. However, in 1994, the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the series' marquee event, the Indianapolis 500, had a bitter falling-out with CART, leading to the creation of the competing IndyCar series (which took the Indy 500 with it). The feud led many former open-wheel fans to abandon the sport, often for NASCAR. By the time the feud ended, attendance and sponsorship money for the sport were a fraction of what they had been only 15 years earlier, and only in the late 2010s had it begun to recover some of its original prominence. All of the series' races are held in the U.S. except for one on a street course in [[Toronto]]. The tracks are a mixture of ovals, road courses, and street circuits. The series' marquee event, as mentioned above, is: * '''Indianapolis 500''', held the day before the U.S. holiday of Memorial Day (which falls on the last Monday of May) at the [[Indianapolis]] Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana (a community completely surrounded by the city of Indianapolis) ==== Motorcycle speedway ==== Motorcycle speedway is a sport where lightweight motorcycles race each other on an oval-shaped track. It is most popular in [[Poland]] but also has a major presence in [[Australia]], [[Britain]], and [[Sweden]]. ===== Important events ===== *'''Speedway Grand Prix''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's late spring, summer, and early fall. *'''Speedway of Nations''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's summer (usually June or July). ===Rugby=== {{main|Rugby football}} ====Rugby union==== * 2025 '''Rugby Championship''', various locations in [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], and [[South Africa]]. Normally held August–October, with an abbreviated and time-shifted version held in years of the men's Rugby World Cup. * 2025: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to Australia, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in England, 22 August–27 September *** Note that World Rugby, the governing body for union, uses the "Rugby World Cup" name for both its men's and women's championship events. * 2026 '''Six Nations Championship''', February–March: ** [[Cardiff]], Principality Stadium (Millennium Stadium) ** [[Dublin]], Aviva Stadium ** [[Edinburgh]], Scottish Gas Murrayfield ** [[London]], Twickenham Stadium ** [[Rome]], Stadio Olimpico ** [[Saint-Denis (Île-de-France)|Saint-Denis]] ([[Paris]]), Stade de France * 2027 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2029: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to New Zealand, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2031 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in the United States, dates TBA * 2033: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to South Africa, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in the United States, dates TBA ====Rugby sevens==== * '''World Rugby Sevens Series''' and '''World Rugby Women's Sevens Series''': A series of 8 tournaments for national men's and women's sevens teams held at various locations around the world. In the current format, all events see both sexes compete on the same weekend. Marketed as the '''HSBC SVNS''' (with HSBC being the main corporate sponsor). World Rugby has scrapped the former Rugby World Cup Sevens, making the annual SVNS series its effective successor. ** '''[[Dubai]] Sevens''' – The traditional season opener, held on the weekend including the first Saturday in December at a stadium known as The Sevens. ** '''South Africa Sevens''' – Held on the weekend after the Dubai Sevens at [[Cape Town]] Stadium. ** '''Australian Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of January at [[Perth]] Rectangular Stadium (commercially HBF Park). ** '''Canada Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of February at BC Place in [[Vancouver/Yaletown-False Creek|downtown]] [[Vancouver]]. ** '''USA Sevens''' – Held the weekend after the Canada Sevens at Dignity Health Sports Park in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Carson|Carson, California]]. ** '''[[Hong Kong]] Sevens''' – The most famous men's event. Held in early April at Hong Kong Stadium in So Kon Po, in the [[Hong Kong/Eastern District|east]] of Hong Kong Island. ** '''[[Singapore]] Sevens''' – Held in early May at the National Stadium in Kallang, a district just to the [[Singapore/East Coast|northeast]] of the Downtown Core. ** '''[[Madrid]] Sevens''' – The final event, held at Estadio Metropolitano in the city's [[Madrid/Northern Suburbs|northern]] San Blas district. ====Rugby league==== =====National Rugby League===== *'''NRL Grand Final''' – The first or second Saturday of October at the Sydney Cricket Ground, just [[Sydney/Eastern Suburbs|east of the city centre]]. *'''State of Origin''' series – three matches in all in May–July. One match is normally held in the capital city of each state represented: Stadium Australia (aka Accor Stadium) in the [[Sydney/Sydney Olympic Park|Sydney Olympic Park]], and Lang Park (aka Suncorp Stadium) in [[Brisbane]]. The third game rotates between several cities outside New South Wales and Queensland: [[Adelaide]] (Adelaide Oval), [[Melbourne]] (Melbourne Cricket Ground), and [[Perth]] (Perth Stadium, aka Optus Stadium). =====Super League===== *'''Super League Grand Final''' – =====International===== *'''2026 Rugby League World Cup''' - [[France]] ===Soccer=== {{seealso|Association football|Association football in Europe}} ====Men's==== * '''2025''' FIFA U-17 World Cup, 3–27 November in [[Qatar]]. This becomes an annual event starting in 2025, with Qatar confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2025''' FIFA U-20 World Cup, 27 September–19 October in several cities in [[Chile]] (final most likely in [[Santiago]]) * '''2026''' FIFA World Cup in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], and [[Mexico]]; 11 June–19 July (final in [[East Rutherford]], New Jersey, near New York City) ====Women's==== * '''2025''' [https://www.fifa.com/u17womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, 17 October–8 November in [[Morocco]]. Starting in 2025, this becomes an annual event, with Morocco confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2026''' [https://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup],{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} 5–27 September in [[Poland]] * '''2027''' FIFA Women's World Cup in [[Brazil]], 24 June–25 July ===Table tennis=== [[China]] has been the world's dominant force in table tennis since at least the 1980s, so it comes as no surprise that the '''China Table Tennis Super League''' (CTTSL) is one of the best tournaments in the world, featuring not only the best players from all over China, but several top international players as well. The main international professional circuit is known as '''[https://worldtabletennis.com/ World Table Tennis]''' (WTT), of which the top level is known as the '''WTT Series'''. The most important WTT Series tournaments, offering the most world ranking points and prize money, are known as the '''Grand Smashes''', of which there are three, as of 2024: *'''[https://www.singaporesmash.com Singapore Smash]''' — held in March at the Singapore Sports Hub in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]] *'''[https://www.saudismash.com Saudi Smash]''' — held in May at King Abdullah Sports City in [[Jeddah]] *'''China Smash''' — held in late September and early October at Shougang Park in [[Beijing]] The season-concluding tournament of the WTT Series is the '''WTT Finals''', featuring the top 16 singles players and top 8 doubles pairs of each sex. The 2024 WTT Finals will be held from 20-24 November at the [[Kitakyushu]] General Gymnasium. Table tennis is also contested at the Summer Olympics, which is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport. The table tennis event at the Olympics consists of men's and women's singles, men's and women's teams, and a mixed doubles event. There is also the annual '''World Table Tennis Championships''', which is contested between individuals and doubles pairs in odd years, and between national teams in even years. ===Tennis=== ''See also [[Tennis]].'' Tennis has events throughout the calendar year. The top-level men's tour is the ATP Tour, with the WTA Tour as the women's counterpart. The men's and women's tours come together for the four '''Grand Slam''' events and a few other select tournaments throughout the year. The only players to have ever completed the Grand Slam are Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 & 1969) in the men's event, and Maureen Connolly (1953), Margaret Court (1970) and Steffi Graf (1988) in the women's event. In addition to these, the '''[https://www.daviscup.com/ Davis Cup]''' for men and '''[https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/ Billie Jean King Cup]''' (known as the Fed Cup until 2020) for women are the top events for national teams; these operate as multi-level leagues. The top levels (now known as the "Finals" in both events) were traditionally conducted as knockout tournaments, but now use a format similar to that of the FIFA World Cup, with all qualifying nations meeting at a single site for a group stage followed by a knockout stage. A player who wins all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year is said to have completed a '''golden slam''', and the only able-bodied player to have done so to date was Germany's Steffi Graf in 1988. (The doubles partnership of American identical twins Bob and Mike Bryan, aka the Bryan Brothers, won all of the required events consecutively, but their streak started with the 2012 Olympics, thus spanning two calendar years. Two wheelchair tennis players have completed the calendar-year golden slam, with their version replacing the able-bodied Olympics with the Paralympic Games.) At the professional level, tennis court surfaces can be divided into three types: grass, clay and hard. Each of these surfaces has a different bounce profile for the ball, thus favouring different playing styles. While all professional tennis players are competent on all three surfaces, some players are known to excel on particular surfaces; for instance, Rafael Nadal was known for his excellence on clay courts during his prime, while Roger Federer was well-known for his prowess on grass courts. Most ATP and WTA events feature both singles and doubles tournaments, with Grand Slams and the Olympics also featuring a mixed doubles tournament. ====Grand Slam events==== All four of these events are held over two weeks (15 days of play at all events except Wimbledon, still at 14). They are considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of tennis, and are even more prestigious than the Olympics. * '''[https://ausopen.com/ Australian Open]''': Ends on the last Sunday in January at [[Melbourne]] Park just outside the city centre. Frequently suffers from hot and humid weather in the southern summer, although this has been alleviated by retractable roofs on the three main courts. The final is held in the Rod Laver Arena, which is named after Rod Laver, the only player to have completed a grand slam twice, and the last man to achieve the feat when he did so in 1969. Has been played on hard courts since 1988. * '''[https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/ French Open]''' (also known as ''Roland Garros''): Held in late May and early June at ''Stade Roland Garros'' in the Bois de Boulogne in the [[Paris/16th arrondissement|16th arondissement]] of [[Paris]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event still held on clay courts. * '''[https://www.wimbledon.com/ Wimbledon]''': Begins on the first Monday in July and ends on the second Sunday following at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in the [[London/Wimbledon|Wimbledon]] neighbourhood of southwest [[London]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event held on grass courts, requiring all players to dress only in white (though women are now allowed to wear colored underwear to better hide menstruation), and many other traditions. The oldest and most prestigious of the Grand Slams. * '''[https://www.usopen.org/ US Open]''': Begins in August, on the Sunday that precedes the weekend of the US holiday of Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September. Ends on the Sunday following Labor Day. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in the northern part of the [[New York City]] borough of [[Queens]]. Has been played on hard courts since 1978. ====Season-ending championships==== Both the ATP and WTA have season-ending events for the very top players, with eight players qualifying for the finals in singles and eight teams in doubles. The competitors are divided into two groups of four, each playing a round-robin within the group. The top two finishers in each group advance to the semifinals, with the winners of each semifinal contesting the final. * '''[https://www.nittoatpfinals.com/en ATP Finals]''': Mid-November at Pala Alpitour (aka Palasport Olimpico) in [[Turin]], Italy. * '''[https://www.wtatennis.com/wta-finals WTA Finals]''': Late October–early November in [[Riyadh]], Saudi Arabia. In the mid-2010s, the WTA Tour launched the '''WTA Elite Trophy''', a second season-ending event for players immediately below those who qualify for the WTA Finals. It was suspended because Covid-19 from 2020 to 2020.. ====Other top-tier events==== Both the ATP and WTA have a multi-level hierarchy of events, with the Grand Slams at the top, followed by the season-ending championships and then the events shown here (with other levels below these in both cases). The two tours have differing terminology for this level: * ATP: Nine events known as the "ATP Tour Masters 1000". All top players are required to enter these events (barring injury or other misfortune), with the exception of the Monte-Carlo Masters. * WTA: The "WTA 1000" was established in 2021 by the merger of the former "Premier Mandatory" and "Premier 5" events. Since 2024, there have been ten WTA 1000 tournaments, all of which are mandatory. * Olympics: The tennis event at the Olympics is less prestigious than the Grand Slams, and many top players choose to skip it, while those who compete often do not take it seriously and lose to little-known lower-ranked opponents. Moreover, the Olympics typically falls in the middle of the U.S. hard court season, meaning that players miss important tournaments and lose valuable ranking points in their quest to qualify for the season-ending championships should they choose to participate. That said, there is a special prestige attached to winning all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in a single calendar year, known as a golden slam. Unlike in the professional circuits, doubles pairs at the Olympics must be from the same country. With that in mind, here are the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events: * '''[[Qatar]] Ladies Open''': Mid-February at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in [[Doha]]. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Dubai]] Tennis Championships''': Late February at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour also plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''Indian Wells Masters''' (men) and '''Indian Wells Open''' (women): Early March in [[Indian Wells]], California (near Palm Springs). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Miami Open''': Late March–early April at Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], Florida (north of the city of Miami). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Monte-Carlo Masters''': Mid-April at Monte Carlo Country Club in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, next to Monaco. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Madrid]] Open''': Mid-May at Caja Mágica in Madrid. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Italian Open''': Week following the Madrid Open at Foro Italico in Rome. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Canadian Open''': Early August at Stade IGA in Montreal and Sobeys Stadium (formerly Aviva Centre) in Toronto. In odd-numbered years, the men play in Montreal and the women in Toronto, and vice versa in even-numbered years. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Cincinnati Masters''' (men) and '''Cincinnati Open''' (women): Week after the Canadian Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in [[Mason (Ohio)|Mason, Ohio]], northeast of [[Cincinnati]]. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Wuhan]] Open''': Last week of September at Optics Valley International Tennis Center. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''China Open''': Start of October, immediately following the Wuhan Open, at the National Tennis Center in [[Beijing]]. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''[[Shanghai]] Masters''': Week after the China Open at Qi Zhong Stadium in the southwest of the city. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Paris]] Masters''': Late October–early November at AccorHotels Arena in the [[Paris/12th arrondissement|12th arrondissement]]. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' The Grand Slams, tour finals and ATP Masters 1000/WTA 1000 tournaments are collectively known as the '''Big Titles'''. Serbia's Novak Djokovic is the only singles player of either sex to have won all the Big Titles in the course of his career, and was said to have "completed the game of tennis" by adding the Olympic gold medal to those in 2024. Three other men's players, all retired, have won all of the Big Titles in doubles—Canadian Daniel Nestor as an individual, and the aforementioned Bryan Brothers as a team. All also have Olympic gold medals in doubles. Djokovic and the Bryans have also been on national teams that won the Davis Cup. ==Stay safe== Take precautions typical for [[Stay safe#Mass gatherings|large crowds]] and major events, with risk factors such as [[pickpocketing]], [[infectious diseases]], drunk brawls and stampedes. '''Hooliganism''' is organized violence associated with sport fandom, in particular prevalent in [[association football in Europe|men's football in Europe]]. The risk of hooliganism differs between countries and teams, and might be difficult to assess from a neutral source. {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Sports}} 6d41q2649xqjj1a5gyl70d211j936yy 5090955 5090951 2025-07-10T16:37:03Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Events with multiple sports */ 5090955 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|MalmöFF Fans banner.jpg|caption=Fans of Malmö FF, a Swedish football team}} '''Spectator sports''' are those where the players are greatly outnumbered by their audience, often a thousandfold and sometimes a millionfold for the biggest events. These usually involve travel, often long-distance, so there is a distinct experience of sports travel for those crowds, covered on this page. See [[Sports]] for those you participate in yourself, watched (if at all) by a few family members or ex-players. See [[Activities]] for the broader sphere of mostly non-competitive pastimes such as bird-watching. == Understand == [[File:Olympic Torch 2010.jpg | thumb | 300px | Lighting the Olympic flame from the sun]] Spectator sports have a long history: in the western tradition this is exemplified by the ancient Olympic Games. But mass travelling audiences only emerged in the 19th century, with the development of leisure time, disposable income, and public transport. Indeed the Olympics are a 19th-century reinvention, with the ancient event lapsing around 400 AD and the modern version launching in Athens in 1896. In the 19th and 20th centuries, three tribes emerged: an elite of professional players, an audience watching them direct or on TV or internet, and the "grassroots" playing at amateur or junior level. Of course there is overlap, but the stark feature today is how different those worlds have become; certainly their travel experiences could not be more different. The divergence caused great soul-searching in sports associations, and sometimes acrimonious splits. It's no spoiler to say that big money and big business won, and spectator sports are designed to extract their followers' cash not only by gate receipts, but by advertising and sponsorship, by merchandising, by broadcasting rights, and by gambling. Spectator sports are also a matter of national prestige and policy: countries market themselves as sports destination, and by "sports-washing" deflect attention from their unattractive regimes. The live audience for big events is nowadays greatly outnumbered by TV and internet viewers, and developments in virtual reality promise to take this further. But for the time being, the crowd is essential to the event. They descend in partisan masses upon the host city, throng the pubs and transport hubs, and book up accommodation. Their chants and slogans, team regalia, cheers and boos, all create an intense atmosphere. Alcohol-fuelled violence has too often been a by-product. Early spectators simply milled around the playing area, craning to see the action. It's still like that in golf, where crowds follow their favourite player from hole to hole, and in on-road races for cycling and motor sports where the biggest audience is close to the finish line but people find vantage points all along the way. Larger crowds made this unmanageable for most sports, so embankments then stadiums were built: modern examples are huge and architecturally exciting. Stadiums may be multi-purpose or dedicated to one sport, and a big division is between those for ball games, and those incorporating a running track, which makes them suitable for Olympics but distances the crowd. They may be "borrowed" for events, for instance international rugby matches may use a soccer stadium simply for extra capacity. The upkeep of a stadium (even a small one) is usually part-financed by a sponsorship deal, so they change their names for the length of the deal, sometimes just for a specific event. Signage on streets and public transport can't keep up with this so be sure to check not only which stadium you're going to, but any other names it's locally known by. Every big city has a sports or other mass event at least once a week, so they are well-practised in signage, stewarding and crowd safety, extra and diverted transport, and policing. See individual city pages for accommodation, and other things to see and do there. See [[Events]] for the very largest, which embroil entire countries for days on end. These draw a travelling army of fans following their teams from city to city as the tournament progresses, so even if you don't plan to attend, you have to factor the event into your travel plans. ==Articles about watching sports== <div style="{{column-width|25em}}"> * [[Spectator sports in Japan]] * [[American football]] * [[Association football]] ** [[Association football in Europe]] * [[Australian rules football]] * [[Baseball]] ** [[Baseball in the United States]] * [[Basketball in North America]] * [[Boxing]] * [[Bullfighting]] * [[Cricket]] * [[Field hockey]] * [[Formula One]] * [[Golf]] * [[Handball in Europe]] * [[Horse racing]] * [[Ice hockey in Europe]] * [[Ice hockey in North America]] * [[Martial arts]] * [[Motorcycle speedway]] * [[Olympic Games]] * [[Rugby football]] * [[Tennis]] </div> ==Events with multiple sports== ===African Games === The African Games are held among the countries of Africa. * '''2027''': [[Cairo]], Egypt, 20 January–7 February. * '''2031''': [[Kinshasa]], DR Congo (dates TBA). ===Asian Games=== The [http://www.ocasia.org Asian Games]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} among the countries of Asia; the second largest multi-sports games after the Summer Olympics. Features some sports that are popular in Asia but not contested at the Olympics such as wushu (Chinese martial arts), kabbadi, sepak takraw and dragon boat racing, as well as some globally-popular non-Olympic sports such as tenpin bowling and squash. The Asian Games also have added several popular esports as official medal events. The Winter Asian Games are operated by the same body but feature only winter sports. Normally held in the year before the Winter Olympics. * '''2026''': 19 September–4 October, [[Nagoya]], [[Japan]] * '''2030''': [[Doha]], [[Qatar]] * '''2034''': [[Riyadh]], [[Saudi Arabia]] <!-- ===Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games=== --> ===Bolivarian Games=== * '''2025''': November 23 to December 7 in [[Ayacucho]] and [[Lima]], [[Peru]] ===Central American Games === The Central American Games, only involving the seven nations of [[Central America]]. * '''2025''': 15–31 October, [[Guatemala City]], Guatemala ===Central America and Caribbean Games === The [https://inside.fei.org/fei/games/cont-reg-games/central-american-caribbean Central America and Caribbean Games] — the second oldest international multi-sport games. * '''2026''': 24 July — 8 August, [[Santo Domingo]], [[Dominican Republic]] ===Commonwealth Games=== The [https://www.commonwealthsport.com Commonwealth Games] among the countries of the [[British Empire#Commonwealth countries|Commonwealth of Nations]]; the fourth-largest multi-sports games. Unlike other multi-sport events, para-sports events are held as part of the main games with the able-bodied sports events. Features some non-Olympic sports that are popular in the Commonwealth such as lawn bowls, squash and netball. [[England]], [[Scotland]], [[Wales]] and [[Northern Ireland]] send separate teams to the Commonwealth Games, in contrast to the Olympics where they send a unified [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]] team. The next games in 2026 had been scheduled for the Australian state of Victoria, but the state government pulled out in July 2023, citing financial concerns. [[Glasgow]], Scotland was announced as the new host in September 2024; the 2026 games will be considerably scaled down from past editions, with only 10 sports and no athletes' village. === Deaflympics=== The [https://www.deaflympics.com Deaflympics] is an IOC-sanctioned event for athletes with hearing impairments. Although the sports are largely the same as the Olympics, modifications are made to not rely on sounds such as starter's guns, spoken commands or referee whistles. Separate summer and winter games are held. * '''2025 Summer Deaflympics''': 15–26 November in [[Tokyo]], Japan ===European Games=== The [http://www.european-games.org/ European Games] among [[Europe]]an countries. The newest continental-level multi-sport event, with its first edition in 2015. Also in the year before the Summer Olympics. * '''2027''' in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]; dates TBA ===Gay Games=== The [https://www.gaygames.org Gay Games] attract mostly LGBT athletes, though are open to all. * '''2026''': 27 June to 4 July [[Valencia]], [[Spain]] * '''2030''': Host to be announced in November 2025 ===Jeux de la Francophonie=== [https://www.jeux.francophonie.org Jeux de la Francophonie] among the countries of La Francophonie. The Canadian provinces of [[Quebec]] and [[New Brunswick]] send separate teams from the Canadian team, and the Belgian team is restricted to sending Francophone athletes. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. *'''2027''': July 23 to August 1, [[Yerevan]], Armenia ===National Games of China=== The National Games of China a multi-sport competition between [[China]]'s [[Chinese provinces and regions|provincial level units]], including [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], as well as teams representing the Chinese military and various Chinese industry groups. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. The standards of the diving and table tennis competitions in particular are regarded by most to be even higher than the Olympics. * '''2025''': [[Guangdong]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] <!-- ===Lusofonia Games=== The [http://www.acolop.org/ Lusofonia Games] among the world's Portuguese-speaking countries. Last held in 2014. ===Mediterranean Games=== --> === Maccabiah Games=== The [https://www.maccabiah.com/en/ Maccabiah Games] for Jewish athletes from 85 nations, and Israelis regardless of ethnicity or religion, are the third-largest multi-sports event by number of competitors after the Summer Olympics and Asian Games. Always held in Israel. * '''2025''': July, Israel ===Olympic Games=== {{main|Olympic Games}} * [[Milan–Cortina 2026|'''2026''': Winter Olympics]], 6 – 22 Feb, [[Milan]] and [[Cortina d'Ampezzo|Cortina]], [[Italy]] * [[Los Angeles 2028|'''2028''': Summer Olympics]], 21 Jul - 6 Aug, [[Los Angeles]], [[United States of America|USA]], with softball and canoe slalom to be held in [[Oklahoma City]] * [[French Alps 2030|'''2030''': Winter Olympics]], 1 - 17 Feb, multiple locations in the [[French Alps]], plus [[Nice]], [[France]] and [[Turin]], [[Italy]] * [[Brisbane 2032|'''2032''': Summer Olympics]], 23 Jul - 8 Aug, [[Brisbane]], [[Australia]] * [[Salt Lake City–Utah 2034|'''2034''': Winter Olympics]], 10 - 26 Feb, [[Salt Lake City]], [[United States of America|USA]], with other venues scattered around the state of [[Utah]] ===Pacific Games=== * The [http://websites.sportstg.com/assoc_page.cgi?c=2-2642-0-0-0&sID=24021 Pacific Games] among the countries of [[Oceania]] except Australia and New Zealand. * '''2027''': Pīraʻe, [[Tahiti]] ===Pan American Games=== The [http://www.panamsports.org Pan American Games] among the countries of the Americas. * '''2027''': 16 July — 1 August in [[Lima]], Peru ===South American Games=== A regional multi-sport event held between 15 nations from South America * '''2026''': 12 – 26 September, [[Rosario]] and Rafaela, Argentina ===Southeast Asian Games=== The Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), held every two years in odd-numbered years, among the countries of [[Southeast Asia]]. Features some sports that are only popular in Southeast Asia such as sepak takraw and silat. * '''2025''': 7–19 December, [[Bangkok]], Thailand * '''2027''': [[Kuala Lumpur]], Malaysia * '''2029''': Singapore * '''2031''': Laos * '''2033''': Philippines === Special Olympics=== The [https://www.specialolympics.org Special Olympics] are IOC-sanctioned events for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities. ==== Special Olympics World Summer Games ==== * '''2027''': Dates TBA, [[Perth]], [[Australia]] * '''2031''': Dates TBA, [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] ==== Special Olympics World Winter Games ==== * '''2025''': Dates TBA, [[Turin]] and other venues in the [[Piedmont]] region, [[Italy]] * '''2029''': Dates TBA, [[Chur]] and other venues in the [[Graubünden]] canton, [[Switzerland]] <!-- ===Student Games=== --> ===World Games=== Held every four years in the year after the summer Olympic Games. No events overlap with any contested in the Olympics. Many of the sports are not part of the Olympic program at all; the World Games also feature many non-Olympic disciplines or events within Olympic sports. The events are organized by the International World Games Association, which is recognized by the IOC. * '''2025''': 7–17 July, [[Chengdu]], China ==Events for a single sport== ===American football=== {{main|American football}} ==== National Football League ==== * '''Super Bowl LX''' – 8 February 2026 at Levi's Stadium in [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]], [[California]] (home to the San Francisco 49ers). * '''Super Bowl LXI''' – 14 February 2027 at SoFi Stadium in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Inglewood]], California (home to the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams). * '''Super Bowl LXII''' – Date TBA in February 2028 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in [[Atlanta/Downtown|downtown]] [[Atlanta]], Georgia (home to the Atlanta Falcons). =====NFL International Series===== At least five regular season games, with three in [[London]] (England) and at least two in other countries. The NFL has contracts with two London venues, namely Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The nominal home teams for the 2025 games have been announced (the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley, the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets at Spurs, the Indianapolis Colts in Berlin, the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin). The date for the Dublin game has been announced; other dates are expected to be announced in spring 2025.<!--Following standard US usage, the second team listed is the designated "home" team.--> ======NFL games in Mexico====== The NFL first held a regular season game in Mexico in 2005. Despite good attendance, the league did not return until the 2016 season, the first of what was meant to be a three-year deal to hold one game each season in that country. With both the 2016 and 2017 games selling out, the deal was extended through the 2021 season with an eye to possibly play more than one game per season in future years. All Mexico games thus far have been held in Estadio Azteca in [[Mexico City]]. The most recent Mexico game was in 2022. With Estadio Azteca being renovated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there will be no Mexico games until at least the 2026 season. ======NFL games in Germany====== In February 2022, the NFL announced a four-year agreement to expand the NFL International Series in Germany. The games were originally to be split between the Allianz Arena in Munich and Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt. The first game was held in the 2022 season. With the Mexico game being put on hold due to stadium renovations, there were two Germany games in 2023, both in Frankfurt. The 2024 game was held in Munich with the Carolina Panthers "hosting" and defeating the New York Giants. Berlin is joining the list of Germany hosts, with Olympiastadion set to host its first game at a so-far-undetermined date in 2025. ======NFL games in Brazil====== The NFL announced in November 2023 it would extend its International Series to Brazil. The first game in that country was held on September 6, 2024, with the Philadelphia Eagles "hosting" and defeating the Green Bay Packers at Arena Corinthians in [[São Paulo]]. Another Brazil game will be held on September 5, 2025, again at Arena Corinthians, with the Los Angeles Chargers as "host". ======NFL games in Spain====== Shortly after announcing the expansion to Brazil, the NFL extended the series to Spain. The first game in Spain will be held in 2025 at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in [[Madrid]] with the Miami Dolphins as "host". ======NFL games in Ireland====== The NFL has also extended the series to Ireland, with the first game being "hosted" by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 at Croke Park in [[Dublin]]. ======NFL games in Australia====== In 2026, the NFL expands its "International Series" to Australia, with the first game of the regular season being played at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground with the Los Angeles Rams "hosting". ==== US college football ==== * '''College Football Playoff National Championship''' ** 2026: Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], [[Florida]] (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 19 ** 2027: Allegiant Stadium in [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|Paradise]], [[Nevada]] (home of the Las Vegas Raiders); January 25 ** 2028: Caesars Superdome in [[New Orleans]], [[Louisiana]] (home of the New Orleans Saints); January 24 ** 2029: Raymond James Stadium in [[Tampa]], [[Florida]] (home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers); January 22 ** 2030: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 21 Each of these games is the championship for the previous calendar year. The bulk of the American football season takes place in the northern hemisphere fall/autumn. ====European League of Football==== * '''ELF Championship Game''' – 2025 edition at Neckarstadion (aka MHPArena) in [[Stuttgart]], Germany at a date in September to be determined ====German Football League==== * [http://www.germanbowl.de/ German Bowl] – 2025 host TBA ===Australian rules football=== {{main|Australian rules football}} ====Australian Football League==== * '''2025 AFL Grand Final''' at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground – 27 September ===Badminton=== Badminton is generally most popular in Asia, and Asian countries generally dominate the international tournaments; Denmark is the only non-Asian country to be considered a badminton powerhouse. Although badminton is popularly regarded as a backyard sport in the United States and often played outdoors recreationally, professional badminton is almost always played indoors. The '''[https://bwfworldtour.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour]''' is the premier professional tournament circuit, and is divided into six tiers. The top tier is occupied by a single tournament: the season-concluding '''[https://bwfworldtourfinals.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour Finals]''' in December every year. This is planned to be held in [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] until at least 2026. All BWF World Tour tournaments feature both men's and women's tournaments, as well as a mixed doubles tournament. The next tier is the BWF World Tour Super 1000, comprising the four most important tournaments on the circuit apart from the Finals, offering the largest number of ranking points and amount of prize money. As of 2024, they are as follows: *'''Malaysia Open''' — held in January every year at the Putra Indoor Stadium in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. *'''[https://www.allenglandbadminton.com All England Open]''' — the oldest international badminton tournament in the world, and the most prestigious tournament on the circuit. Held in March every year at the Arena Birmingham in [[Birmingham]]. *'''China Open''' — held in September every year. Since 2018, has been held at the Xincheng Gymnasium in [[Changzhou]]. *'''Indonesia Open''' — held in November every year at the Istora Gelora Bung Karno in [[Jakarta]]. Below that is the BWF World Tour 750, which offer less ranking points and prize money, but generally still attract most of the top players. *'''China Masters''' — held in November at the Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium in [[Shenzhen]]. *'''[https://denmarkopen.dk/ Denmark Open]''' — held in October at the Arena Fyn in [[Odense]]. *'''[https://www.yonexifb.com/uk/home French Open]''' — usually held in October, but the 2024 event was held in March at the Adidas Arena in [[Paris]] as a trial event for the Olympics. *'''[https://daihatsu-japan-open.com/ Japan Open]''' — held in August at the Yokohama Arena in [[Yokohama]]. *'''India Open''' — held in January at the K. D. Jadhav Indoor Hall in [[Delhi]]. *'''Singapore Open''' — held in late May or early June at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]]. The '''[https://bwfworldchampionships.bwfbadminton.com World Championships]''' are held every year except in Olympic years. Badminton has been an Olympic sport since 1992, with the Olympics generally being considered the premier tournament in the sport. There is also the '''Thomas Cup''' for men's national teams, and the '''Uber Cup''' for women's national teams, which mostly operate as multi-level leagues. ===Baseball=== {{seealso|Baseball|Baseball in the United States}} * World Baseball Classic * '''[https://www.seriedelcaribe.net/ Caribbean Series]''' (''Serie del Caribe'') is a championship tournament held in February each year. Champion teams from professional baseball leagues of various Caribbean and Latin American countries compete for the championship. * '''Little League World Series''' – Held over 10 days, ending on the last Sunday of August, in [[Williamsport|South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA]]. ===Basketball=== ====NBA==== {{seealso|Basketball in North America}} ====US college basketball==== The biggest event in US college (university) basketball is the NCAA Division I men's tournament, featuring 68 teams. The Division I women's tournament draws considerably less interest, but is still the biggest event in American women's college sports. The men's tournament begins on the Tuesday preceding the third Thursday in March (in terms of dates, no earlier than March 13 and no later than March 19) in [[Dayton|Dayton, Ohio]] with an eight-team round marketed as the First Four, featuring two games on Tuesday and two on Wednesday. The winners of these four games join the remaining 60 tournament teams for the first round, which starts on the third Thursday in March. The women's tournament expanded from 64 teams to 68 starting in 2022, with its own First Four; it starts the day after the men's tournament. The four-team final rounds of these tournaments are known as the Final Four. Future Final Four sites are: ;Men * 2026 – April 4 and 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in [[Indianapolis]] * 2027 – April 3 and 5 at Ford Field in [[Detroit]] * 2028 – April 1 and 3 at Allegiant Stadium just [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|west]] of the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Las Vegas Strip]] * 2029 – March 31 and April 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis * 2030 – April 6 and 8 at AT&T Stadium in [[Arlington (Texas)|Arlington, Texas]], between [[Dallas]] and [[Fort Worth]] ;Women * 2026 – April 3 and 5 at PHX Arena in [[Phoenix]] * 2027 – April 2 and 4 at Nationwide Arena in [[Columbus|Columbus, Ohio]] * 2028 – March 31 and April 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis * 2029 – March 30 and April 1 at the Alamodome in San Antonio * 2030 – April 5 and 7 at Moda Center in [[Portland (Oregon)|Portland, Oregon]] * 2031 – April 4 and 6 at American Airlines Center in Dallas ====EuroLeague==== The EuroLeague is basketball's equivalent to the UEFA Champions League in association football (soccer), featuring top club teams from throughout Europe (note that in sports, "Europe" includes several countries either partly or totally in Asia, most notably Russia, Turkey, and Israel). The season starts in October and ends with the '''EuroLeague Final Four''' in May. * 2026 – May 22 and 24 in either Athens or Belgrade (site TBA) ===Canadian football=== {{seealso|American football#Canadian Football League}} * '''112th Grey Cup''' at Princess Auto Stadium in [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]] (home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers); November 16, 2025 * '''113th Grey Cup''' at McMahon Stadium in [[Calgary/Northwest|northwest]] [[Calgary]], [[Alberta]] (home of the Calgary Stampeders); November 15, 2026 ===Cricket=== {{main|Cricket}} * '''[https://www.lords.org/lords/our-history/the-ashes The Ashes]''' — November 2025–January 2026 at the following venues in [[Australia]]: ** [[Perth]] Stadium, in the [[Perth/The Suburbs|northern suburb]] of Burswood — 21–25 November 2025 ** The Gabba, in the [[Brisbane]] suburb of Wooloongabba — 4–8 December 2025 ** [[Adelaide]] Oval, in the [[Adelaide/City and North Adelaide|parklands]] between the central business district and North Adelaide — 17–21 December 2025 ** [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground, in Yarra Park in the city's [[Melbourne/Inner east|inner east]] — 26–30 December 2025. The traditional Boxing Day Test at the MCG is one of the sport's most iconic events. ** [[Sydney]] Cricket Ground, in Moore Park in the [[Sydney/City East|inner eastern suburbs]] — 4—8 January 2026 * '''Cricket World Cup''' — October—November 2027, co-hosted by [[South Africa]], [[Zimbabwe]] and [[Namibia]]. ===Cycling=== Road bicycle racing is broadly divided into two race types: * '''Single-day races''' — Exactly as the name implies, these races are held on a single day at around the same time each year. Some have fixed courses; more have fixed starting and end points with courses varying slightly from year to year. The most prestigious races of this type are often called "classics", but the term is poorly defined. * '''Stage races''' — Held over more than one day, with one race each day known as a "stage" (though some races, notably the Grand Tours, will include one or two rest days). While there is an award ceremony at the end of each stage, the overall winner is determined by "general classification"—the cumulative time for the entire race. The most famous road racing events for bicycles in the world are the three stage races known as Grand Tours. They are raced in Italy, France, and Spain but commonly also include legs in other countries. These tours, each featuring 21 stages, involve only men's races, and are even more prestigious than the road cycling events at the Olympics. * '''[https://www.giroditalia.it Giro d'Italia]''' — around Italy, usually takes place in May. * '''[https://www.letour.fr/en/ Tour de France]''' — around France, usually takes place in July. The most prestigious of the three. * '''[https://www.lavuelta.es/en Vuelta a España]''' — around Spain, usually takes place in August. While countless single-day races are run, both throughout Europe and worldwide, the most famous are the five races known as "Monuments", all of which were first held between 1890 and 1915. * '''[[Milan]]–[[Sanremo|San Remo]]''' (Italian: ''Milano–Sanremo'') – The first major classic of the year, usually on the third Saturday of March on a course between the two named locations. It's considered "the sprinters' classic" because its mostly flat course favors that type of rider. * '''Tour of [[Flanders]]''' (Dutch: ''Ronde van Vlaanderen'') – Held in early April through [[Belgium]]'s Flanders region between [[Antwerp]] and [[Oudenaarde]]. The first of the "cobbled classics", with many key sections (including several short but very steep hills) paved in cobblestones. * '''[[Paris]]–[[Roubaix]]''' – Probably ''the'' most famous single-day race, it's known as the "Queen of the Classics" and ''l'Enfer du Nord'' ("The Hell of the North [of France]"). Held one week after the Tour of Flanders, it features even longer stretches of cobblestone roads, making it arguably the hardest single-day race on riders. * '''[[Liège]]–[[Bastogne]]–Liège''' – Held in late April in Belgium, this race is nearly as hard on riders as Paris–Roubaix, but for different reasons, namely a long course with numerous short but steep hills in the [[Ardennes]] region, as well as an uphill finish in Liège. * '''Giro di [[Lombardy|Lombardia]]''' (officially ''Il Lombardia'') – The year's final Monument, held in October over a course that varies from year to year, with only a few fixed locations, most famously the arduous climb to the Madonna del Ghisallo church in Magreglio near Lake Como. The race ends in either [[Bergamo]] or [[Como]]. Known as "the climbers' classic" from its many significant climbs. Cycling is also featured at the Summer Olympics in 4 disciplines; track cycling, road cycling, mountain biking and BMX. With the exception of the men's road cycling discipline, these are generally considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of cycling. <!-- ===Gaelic football=== --> ===Golf=== {{main|Golf}} The most important professional golf tournaments in the world are knowns as the '''majors''', offering the largest amounts of prize money and world ranking points. The men's and women's professional circuits are run separately, with a separate set of majors for each sex. The most important men's professional circuit is the U.S.-based PGA Tour, while the corresponding professional circuit for women is the LPGA Tour, also based in the U.S. The PGA and LPGA also sanction some tournaments outside the U.S., and some tournaments are co-sanctioned by multiple professional circuits. For instance, all the men's majors are co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour, the European Tour and the Japan Golf Tour. Golf was an Olympic sport 1900–1904, and has been one since 2016. The Olympic golf tournament is less prestigious than the majors and offers no prize money, and many of the top male golfers choose to skip it, but the top female golfers usually participate. ====Men's==== ;Major championships Three of the four men's major championships are held in the U.S. The only exception is The Open Championship, also known as the "British Open". Each tournament is played from Thursday through Sunday, barring weather-related delays, and has a fixed weekend on the calendar. Tickets for practice sessions during the days before the tournament starts are also sold. A golfer who wins all four majors in the same calendar year is said to have completed the '''Grand Slam''', which has yet to be achieved (Tiger Woods won all four consecutively, but spanning two calendar years starting from the 2000 U.S. Open to the 2001 Masters Tournament; at the time, the PGA Championship was the year's final major, instead of the second). * '''Masters Tournament''' (always held at Augusta National Golf Club in [[Augusta (Georgia)|Augusta]], [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]) – ends on the second Sunday in April. The next edition is set for 9–12 April 2026. * '''PGA Championship''' – ends on the third Sunday of May; next edition to be held 14–17 May 2026 at Aronimink Golf Club in the [[Philadelphia]] suburb of Newtown Square, [[Pennsylvania]]. ** Sites have been set through 2034, with the exception of 2033. * '''U.S. Open''' – ends on the third Sunday in June; next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in [[Southampton (New York)|Southampton]], New York (near the eastern end of [[Long Island]], about 85 miles/140 km from Midtown Manhattan). ** Sites have been set through 2042, as well as for most subsequent years through 2051. * '''The Open Championship''' – played during the week containing the third Friday in July; next edition to be held 17–20 July 2025 at Royal [[Portrush]] Golf Club in [[County Antrim]], [[Northern Ireland]] (about 60 mi/100 km from [[Belfast]] and 35 mi/60 km from [[Derry|Derry/Londonderry]]. The tournament returns to the historic Old Course at [[St Andrews]] every few years, and is of special significance when it does. ** The 2026 edition will be played at Royal Birkdale in [[Southport]] from 16–19 July. ** The 2027 edition will be held at the Old Course from 15–18 July. ;Other significant events * '''Ryder Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in odd-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2025 – 26–28 September at the Black Course of [[Bethpage]] State Park on [[Long Island]] (about 35 miles/56 km east of Midtown Manhattan) ** 2027 – 17-19 September at [[Adare]] Manor in [[County Limerick]], [[Ireland]] ** 2029 – Dates TBA in September at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota (a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]) *'''Presidents Cup''' (competition between a USA team and an "International" team of non-Europeans) – Held in even-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and a non-European country ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Medinah Country Club in [[Medinah]], [[Illinois]] (a northwest suburb of [[Chicago]]). ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia (a [[Melbourne/South-Eastern suburbs|southeastern suburb]] of [[Melbourne]]). ** 2030 – Dates TBA at Bellerive Country Club in Town and Country, [[Missouri]] (in the West County region of [[St. Louis County]], which borders on the city of [[St. Louis]]). ====Women's==== ;Major championships Three of the five women's major championships are held in the U.S. As with the men's major championships, all are held from Thursday through Sunday (barring weather delays). * '''Chevron Championship''' (held at The Club at Carlton Woods in [[The Woodlands]], Texas, about 30 mi/50 km north of [[Houston]]) – The next edition is expected to be 23–26 April 2026. * '''U.S. Women's Open''' – Next edition to be held 4–7 June 2026 at Riviera Country Club in the [[Los Angeles]] neighborhood of [[Pacific Palisades]]. ** Future sites have been set through 2036, and for several subsequent years through 2048. * '''Women's PGA Championship''' – Next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]. * '''The Evian Championship''' (always held at the Evian Resort Golf Club in [[Evian|Évian-les-Bains]], [[France]]) – Typically held in July, though the dates haven't been consistent from year to year. The next edition will be from 10–13 July 2025. * '''Women's Open Championship''' (aka "Women's British Open") – From 2025, three weeks after the Evian Championship, allowing the tour to go on a European swing. The 2025 edition will be at Royal [[Porthcawl]] Golf Club in Wales from 31 July–3 August. ;Other significant events * '''Solheim Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in even-numbered years (from 2024) in August or September; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, [[Netherlands]] (just south of [['s-Hertogenbosch|Den Bosch]]) ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Valhalla Golf Club in [[Louisville|Louisville, Kentucky]] (slightly less than 20 mi/32 km east of downtown) * '''International Crown''' (team competition involving seven national teams, plus a "World" team made up of players not from one of the preceding seven countries) – From 2023, held in odd-numbered years in October ** 2025 – 23–26 October at New Korea Country Club in [[Goyang]], [[South Korea]] ===Handball=== {{see also|Handball in Europe}} Olympic or team Handball is a fast paced team sport that is mostly played indoors and enjoys considerable popularity in most of continental Europe. The world cup as well as the European championship are major events, second only to soccer. The best national leagues (found in Germany, France and the Nordic countries) battle out a club champion every year. There is also the [http://www.ehfcl.com EHF Champions League] which battles out Europe's top club team every year. === Ice hockey === {{seealso|Ice hockey in North America|Ice hockey in Europe}} ==== Men's ==== ;IIHF Men's World Championship * 2026: 15–31 May, [[Zurich|Zürich]] and [[Fribourg]], [[Switzerland]] * 2027: 14–30 May, [[Düsseldorf]] and [[Mannheim]], [[Germany]] * 2028: 12–28 May, [[Paris]] and [[Lyon]], [[France]] ==== Women's ==== ;IIHF Women's World Championship Since 2022, the top level of the Women's World Championships has been held annually, even in Winter Olympic years. From 1997–2021, the top level was an annual affair, but Winter Olympic years were skipped. * 2026: Host, dates, and sites TBA ===Motor racing=== {{seealso|Motor sport}} ====[[Formula One]]==== See the dedicated article. ====NASCAR==== A U.S. stock car racing organization, and the country's most popular form of motorsport. The term "stock car" is a historic reference; when NASCAR first organized races in the years immediately after World War II, the cars were in fact "stock"—exactly as purchased from dealers, with minimal safety-related changes. Over time, the cars changed to the point that they are only vaguely similar in external appearance to current street vehicles, with much more powerful engines and far more safety equipment. NASCAR now operates three national touring series: * Cup Series, the top series * Xfinity Series, the second level * Craftsman Truck Series, the third level, which races pickup trucks instead of cars; usually called simply the "Truck Series" Most races are held on oval tracks. For many years, no more than one or two Cup Series races were held on road courses, but since 2021 that number has gone up to six. Five Xfinity Series races and three Truck Series are also held on road courses. Before COVID-19, the Truck Series held one race in Canada, but border restrictions led to that date being transferred south of the border, and NASCAR has yet to return any of its U.S. national series to Canada (although it runs a separate Canadian series). The sport used to be centered in the Southeastern U.S., but beginning in the 1990s it expanded to become a national spectacle. A typical NASCAR event spans a long weekend, with two or even all three series holding races at one site. Unlike most sports, NASCAR's biggest event is the ''first'' race of the season: * '''Daytona 500''', held on the day before the Presidents Day holiday (which falls on the third Monday of February) at Daytona International Speedway in [[Daytona Beach]], [[Florida]] ====IndyCar==== A U.S.-based open-wheel racing series. It was established in its current form in 2008, when the IndyCar Series (launched in 1996) merged with the former Champcars series. The merger is a story in itself—as late as the early 1990s, open-wheel racing, governed by a body known as CART (which later became Champcars), was the most popular form of motorsport in the U.S. However, in 1994, the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the series' marquee event, the Indianapolis 500, had a bitter falling-out with CART, leading to the creation of the competing IndyCar series (which took the Indy 500 with it). The feud led many former open-wheel fans to abandon the sport, often for NASCAR. By the time the feud ended, attendance and sponsorship money for the sport were a fraction of what they had been only 15 years earlier, and only in the late 2010s had it begun to recover some of its original prominence. All of the series' races are held in the U.S. except for one on a street course in [[Toronto]]. The tracks are a mixture of ovals, road courses, and street circuits. The series' marquee event, as mentioned above, is: * '''Indianapolis 500''', held the day before the U.S. holiday of Memorial Day (which falls on the last Monday of May) at the [[Indianapolis]] Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana (a community completely surrounded by the city of Indianapolis) ==== Motorcycle speedway ==== Motorcycle speedway is a sport where lightweight motorcycles race each other on an oval-shaped track. It is most popular in [[Poland]] but also has a major presence in [[Australia]], [[Britain]], and [[Sweden]]. ===== Important events ===== *'''Speedway Grand Prix''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's late spring, summer, and early fall. *'''Speedway of Nations''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's summer (usually June or July). ===Rugby=== {{main|Rugby football}} ====Rugby union==== * 2025 '''Rugby Championship''', various locations in [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], and [[South Africa]]. Normally held August–October, with an abbreviated and time-shifted version held in years of the men's Rugby World Cup. * 2025: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to Australia, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in England, 22 August–27 September *** Note that World Rugby, the governing body for union, uses the "Rugby World Cup" name for both its men's and women's championship events. * 2026 '''Six Nations Championship''', February–March: ** [[Cardiff]], Principality Stadium (Millennium Stadium) ** [[Dublin]], Aviva Stadium ** [[Edinburgh]], Scottish Gas Murrayfield ** [[London]], Twickenham Stadium ** [[Rome]], Stadio Olimpico ** [[Saint-Denis (Île-de-France)|Saint-Denis]] ([[Paris]]), Stade de France * 2027 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2029: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to New Zealand, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2031 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in the United States, dates TBA * 2033: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to South Africa, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in the United States, dates TBA ====Rugby sevens==== * '''World Rugby Sevens Series''' and '''World Rugby Women's Sevens Series''': A series of 8 tournaments for national men's and women's sevens teams held at various locations around the world. In the current format, all events see both sexes compete on the same weekend. Marketed as the '''HSBC SVNS''' (with HSBC being the main corporate sponsor). World Rugby has scrapped the former Rugby World Cup Sevens, making the annual SVNS series its effective successor. ** '''[[Dubai]] Sevens''' – The traditional season opener, held on the weekend including the first Saturday in December at a stadium known as The Sevens. ** '''South Africa Sevens''' – Held on the weekend after the Dubai Sevens at [[Cape Town]] Stadium. ** '''Australian Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of January at [[Perth]] Rectangular Stadium (commercially HBF Park). ** '''Canada Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of February at BC Place in [[Vancouver/Yaletown-False Creek|downtown]] [[Vancouver]]. ** '''USA Sevens''' – Held the weekend after the Canada Sevens at Dignity Health Sports Park in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Carson|Carson, California]]. ** '''[[Hong Kong]] Sevens''' – The most famous men's event. Held in early April at Hong Kong Stadium in So Kon Po, in the [[Hong Kong/Eastern District|east]] of Hong Kong Island. ** '''[[Singapore]] Sevens''' – Held in early May at the National Stadium in Kallang, a district just to the [[Singapore/East Coast|northeast]] of the Downtown Core. ** '''[[Madrid]] Sevens''' – The final event, held at Estadio Metropolitano in the city's [[Madrid/Northern Suburbs|northern]] San Blas district. ====Rugby league==== =====National Rugby League===== *'''NRL Grand Final''' – The first or second Saturday of October at the Sydney Cricket Ground, just [[Sydney/Eastern Suburbs|east of the city centre]]. *'''State of Origin''' series – three matches in all in May–July. One match is normally held in the capital city of each state represented: Stadium Australia (aka Accor Stadium) in the [[Sydney/Sydney Olympic Park|Sydney Olympic Park]], and Lang Park (aka Suncorp Stadium) in [[Brisbane]]. The third game rotates between several cities outside New South Wales and Queensland: [[Adelaide]] (Adelaide Oval), [[Melbourne]] (Melbourne Cricket Ground), and [[Perth]] (Perth Stadium, aka Optus Stadium). =====Super League===== *'''Super League Grand Final''' – =====International===== *'''2026 Rugby League World Cup''' - [[France]] ===Soccer=== {{seealso|Association football|Association football in Europe}} ====Men's==== * '''2025''' FIFA U-17 World Cup, 3–27 November in [[Qatar]]. This becomes an annual event starting in 2025, with Qatar confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2025''' FIFA U-20 World Cup, 27 September–19 October in several cities in [[Chile]] (final most likely in [[Santiago]]) * '''2026''' FIFA World Cup in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], and [[Mexico]]; 11 June–19 July (final in [[East Rutherford]], New Jersey, near New York City) ====Women's==== * '''2025''' [https://www.fifa.com/u17womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, 17 October–8 November in [[Morocco]]. Starting in 2025, this becomes an annual event, with Morocco confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2026''' [https://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup],{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} 5–27 September in [[Poland]] * '''2027''' FIFA Women's World Cup in [[Brazil]], 24 June–25 July ===Table tennis=== [[China]] has been the world's dominant force in table tennis since at least the 1980s, so it comes as no surprise that the '''China Table Tennis Super League''' (CTTSL) is one of the best tournaments in the world, featuring not only the best players from all over China, but several top international players as well. The main international professional circuit is known as '''[https://worldtabletennis.com/ World Table Tennis]''' (WTT), of which the top level is known as the '''WTT Series'''. The most important WTT Series tournaments, offering the most world ranking points and prize money, are known as the '''Grand Smashes''', of which there are three, as of 2024: *'''[https://www.singaporesmash.com Singapore Smash]''' — held in March at the Singapore Sports Hub in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]] *'''[https://www.saudismash.com Saudi Smash]''' — held in May at King Abdullah Sports City in [[Jeddah]] *'''China Smash''' — held in late September and early October at Shougang Park in [[Beijing]] The season-concluding tournament of the WTT Series is the '''WTT Finals''', featuring the top 16 singles players and top 8 doubles pairs of each sex. The 2024 WTT Finals will be held from 20-24 November at the [[Kitakyushu]] General Gymnasium. Table tennis is also contested at the Summer Olympics, which is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport. The table tennis event at the Olympics consists of men's and women's singles, men's and women's teams, and a mixed doubles event. There is also the annual '''World Table Tennis Championships''', which is contested between individuals and doubles pairs in odd years, and between national teams in even years. ===Tennis=== ''See also [[Tennis]].'' Tennis has events throughout the calendar year. The top-level men's tour is the ATP Tour, with the WTA Tour as the women's counterpart. The men's and women's tours come together for the four '''Grand Slam''' events and a few other select tournaments throughout the year. The only players to have ever completed the Grand Slam are Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 & 1969) in the men's event, and Maureen Connolly (1953), Margaret Court (1970) and Steffi Graf (1988) in the women's event. In addition to these, the '''[https://www.daviscup.com/ Davis Cup]''' for men and '''[https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/ Billie Jean King Cup]''' (known as the Fed Cup until 2020) for women are the top events for national teams; these operate as multi-level leagues. The top levels (now known as the "Finals" in both events) were traditionally conducted as knockout tournaments, but now use a format similar to that of the FIFA World Cup, with all qualifying nations meeting at a single site for a group stage followed by a knockout stage. A player who wins all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year is said to have completed a '''golden slam''', and the only able-bodied player to have done so to date was Germany's Steffi Graf in 1988. (The doubles partnership of American identical twins Bob and Mike Bryan, aka the Bryan Brothers, won all of the required events consecutively, but their streak started with the 2012 Olympics, thus spanning two calendar years. Two wheelchair tennis players have completed the calendar-year golden slam, with their version replacing the able-bodied Olympics with the Paralympic Games.) At the professional level, tennis court surfaces can be divided into three types: grass, clay and hard. Each of these surfaces has a different bounce profile for the ball, thus favouring different playing styles. While all professional tennis players are competent on all three surfaces, some players are known to excel on particular surfaces; for instance, Rafael Nadal was known for his excellence on clay courts during his prime, while Roger Federer was well-known for his prowess on grass courts. Most ATP and WTA events feature both singles and doubles tournaments, with Grand Slams and the Olympics also featuring a mixed doubles tournament. ====Grand Slam events==== All four of these events are held over two weeks (15 days of play at all events except Wimbledon, still at 14). They are considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of tennis, and are even more prestigious than the Olympics. * '''[https://ausopen.com/ Australian Open]''': Ends on the last Sunday in January at [[Melbourne]] Park just outside the city centre. Frequently suffers from hot and humid weather in the southern summer, although this has been alleviated by retractable roofs on the three main courts. The final is held in the Rod Laver Arena, which is named after Rod Laver, the only player to have completed a grand slam twice, and the last man to achieve the feat when he did so in 1969. Has been played on hard courts since 1988. * '''[https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/ French Open]''' (also known as ''Roland Garros''): Held in late May and early June at ''Stade Roland Garros'' in the Bois de Boulogne in the [[Paris/16th arrondissement|16th arondissement]] of [[Paris]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event still held on clay courts. * '''[https://www.wimbledon.com/ Wimbledon]''': Begins on the first Monday in July and ends on the second Sunday following at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in the [[London/Wimbledon|Wimbledon]] neighbourhood of southwest [[London]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event held on grass courts, requiring all players to dress only in white (though women are now allowed to wear colored underwear to better hide menstruation), and many other traditions. The oldest and most prestigious of the Grand Slams. * '''[https://www.usopen.org/ US Open]''': Begins in August, on the Sunday that precedes the weekend of the US holiday of Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September. Ends on the Sunday following Labor Day. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in the northern part of the [[New York City]] borough of [[Queens]]. Has been played on hard courts since 1978. ====Season-ending championships==== Both the ATP and WTA have season-ending events for the very top players, with eight players qualifying for the finals in singles and eight teams in doubles. The competitors are divided into two groups of four, each playing a round-robin within the group. The top two finishers in each group advance to the semifinals, with the winners of each semifinal contesting the final. * '''[https://www.nittoatpfinals.com/en ATP Finals]''': Mid-November at Pala Alpitour (aka Palasport Olimpico) in [[Turin]], Italy. * '''[https://www.wtatennis.com/wta-finals WTA Finals]''': Late October–early November in [[Riyadh]], Saudi Arabia. In the mid-2010s, the WTA Tour launched the '''WTA Elite Trophy''', a second season-ending event for players immediately below those who qualify for the WTA Finals. It was suspended because Covid-19 from 2020 to 2020.. ====Other top-tier events==== Both the ATP and WTA have a multi-level hierarchy of events, with the Grand Slams at the top, followed by the season-ending championships and then the events shown here (with other levels below these in both cases). The two tours have differing terminology for this level: * ATP: Nine events known as the "ATP Tour Masters 1000". All top players are required to enter these events (barring injury or other misfortune), with the exception of the Monte-Carlo Masters. * WTA: The "WTA 1000" was established in 2021 by the merger of the former "Premier Mandatory" and "Premier 5" events. Since 2024, there have been ten WTA 1000 tournaments, all of which are mandatory. * Olympics: The tennis event at the Olympics is less prestigious than the Grand Slams, and many top players choose to skip it, while those who compete often do not take it seriously and lose to little-known lower-ranked opponents. Moreover, the Olympics typically falls in the middle of the U.S. hard court season, meaning that players miss important tournaments and lose valuable ranking points in their quest to qualify for the season-ending championships should they choose to participate. That said, there is a special prestige attached to winning all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in a single calendar year, known as a golden slam. Unlike in the professional circuits, doubles pairs at the Olympics must be from the same country. With that in mind, here are the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events: * '''[[Qatar]] Ladies Open''': Mid-February at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in [[Doha]]. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Dubai]] Tennis Championships''': Late February at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour also plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''Indian Wells Masters''' (men) and '''Indian Wells Open''' (women): Early March in [[Indian Wells]], California (near Palm Springs). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Miami Open''': Late March–early April at Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], Florida (north of the city of Miami). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Monte-Carlo Masters''': Mid-April at Monte Carlo Country Club in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, next to Monaco. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Madrid]] Open''': Mid-May at Caja Mágica in Madrid. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Italian Open''': Week following the Madrid Open at Foro Italico in Rome. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Canadian Open''': Early August at Stade IGA in Montreal and Sobeys Stadium (formerly Aviva Centre) in Toronto. In odd-numbered years, the men play in Montreal and the women in Toronto, and vice versa in even-numbered years. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Cincinnati Masters''' (men) and '''Cincinnati Open''' (women): Week after the Canadian Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in [[Mason (Ohio)|Mason, Ohio]], northeast of [[Cincinnati]]. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Wuhan]] Open''': Last week of September at Optics Valley International Tennis Center. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''China Open''': Start of October, immediately following the Wuhan Open, at the National Tennis Center in [[Beijing]]. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''[[Shanghai]] Masters''': Week after the China Open at Qi Zhong Stadium in the southwest of the city. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Paris]] Masters''': Late October–early November at AccorHotels Arena in the [[Paris/12th arrondissement|12th arrondissement]]. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' The Grand Slams, tour finals and ATP Masters 1000/WTA 1000 tournaments are collectively known as the '''Big Titles'''. Serbia's Novak Djokovic is the only singles player of either sex to have won all the Big Titles in the course of his career, and was said to have "completed the game of tennis" by adding the Olympic gold medal to those in 2024. Three other men's players, all retired, have won all of the Big Titles in doubles—Canadian Daniel Nestor as an individual, and the aforementioned Bryan Brothers as a team. All also have Olympic gold medals in doubles. Djokovic and the Bryans have also been on national teams that won the Davis Cup. ==Stay safe== Take precautions typical for [[Stay safe#Mass gatherings|large crowds]] and major events, with risk factors such as [[pickpocketing]], [[infectious diseases]], drunk brawls and stampedes. '''Hooliganism''' is organized violence associated with sport fandom, in particular prevalent in [[association football in Europe|men's football in Europe]]. The risk of hooliganism differs between countries and teams, and might be difficult to assess from a neutral source. {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Sports}} 2hjd1ghrp5p9u87u5xhmbtbgfx4mdnn 5090956 5090955 2025-07-10T16:40:35Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* World Games */ 5090956 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|MalmöFF Fans banner.jpg|caption=Fans of Malmö FF, a Swedish football team}} '''Spectator sports''' are those where the players are greatly outnumbered by their audience, often a thousandfold and sometimes a millionfold for the biggest events. These usually involve travel, often long-distance, so there is a distinct experience of sports travel for those crowds, covered on this page. See [[Sports]] for those you participate in yourself, watched (if at all) by a few family members or ex-players. See [[Activities]] for the broader sphere of mostly non-competitive pastimes such as bird-watching. == Understand == [[File:Olympic Torch 2010.jpg | thumb | 300px | Lighting the Olympic flame from the sun]] Spectator sports have a long history: in the western tradition this is exemplified by the ancient Olympic Games. But mass travelling audiences only emerged in the 19th century, with the development of leisure time, disposable income, and public transport. Indeed the Olympics are a 19th-century reinvention, with the ancient event lapsing around 400 AD and the modern version launching in Athens in 1896. In the 19th and 20th centuries, three tribes emerged: an elite of professional players, an audience watching them direct or on TV or internet, and the "grassroots" playing at amateur or junior level. Of course there is overlap, but the stark feature today is how different those worlds have become; certainly their travel experiences could not be more different. The divergence caused great soul-searching in sports associations, and sometimes acrimonious splits. It's no spoiler to say that big money and big business won, and spectator sports are designed to extract their followers' cash not only by gate receipts, but by advertising and sponsorship, by merchandising, by broadcasting rights, and by gambling. Spectator sports are also a matter of national prestige and policy: countries market themselves as sports destination, and by "sports-washing" deflect attention from their unattractive regimes. The live audience for big events is nowadays greatly outnumbered by TV and internet viewers, and developments in virtual reality promise to take this further. But for the time being, the crowd is essential to the event. They descend in partisan masses upon the host city, throng the pubs and transport hubs, and book up accommodation. Their chants and slogans, team regalia, cheers and boos, all create an intense atmosphere. Alcohol-fuelled violence has too often been a by-product. Early spectators simply milled around the playing area, craning to see the action. It's still like that in golf, where crowds follow their favourite player from hole to hole, and in on-road races for cycling and motor sports where the biggest audience is close to the finish line but people find vantage points all along the way. Larger crowds made this unmanageable for most sports, so embankments then stadiums were built: modern examples are huge and architecturally exciting. Stadiums may be multi-purpose or dedicated to one sport, and a big division is between those for ball games, and those incorporating a running track, which makes them suitable for Olympics but distances the crowd. They may be "borrowed" for events, for instance international rugby matches may use a soccer stadium simply for extra capacity. The upkeep of a stadium (even a small one) is usually part-financed by a sponsorship deal, so they change their names for the length of the deal, sometimes just for a specific event. Signage on streets and public transport can't keep up with this so be sure to check not only which stadium you're going to, but any other names it's locally known by. Every big city has a sports or other mass event at least once a week, so they are well-practised in signage, stewarding and crowd safety, extra and diverted transport, and policing. See individual city pages for accommodation, and other things to see and do there. See [[Events]] for the very largest, which embroil entire countries for days on end. These draw a travelling army of fans following their teams from city to city as the tournament progresses, so even if you don't plan to attend, you have to factor the event into your travel plans. ==Articles about watching sports== <div style="{{column-width|25em}}"> * [[Spectator sports in Japan]] * [[American football]] * [[Association football]] ** [[Association football in Europe]] * [[Australian rules football]] * [[Baseball]] ** [[Baseball in the United States]] * [[Basketball in North America]] * [[Boxing]] * [[Bullfighting]] * [[Cricket]] * [[Field hockey]] * [[Formula One]] * [[Golf]] * [[Handball in Europe]] * [[Horse racing]] * [[Ice hockey in Europe]] * [[Ice hockey in North America]] * [[Martial arts]] * [[Motorcycle speedway]] * [[Olympic Games]] * [[Rugby football]] * [[Tennis]] </div> ==Events with multiple sports== ===African Games === The African Games are held among the countries of Africa. * '''2027''': [[Cairo]], Egypt, 20 January–7 February. * '''2031''': [[Kinshasa]], DR Congo (dates TBA). ===Asian Games=== The [http://www.ocasia.org Asian Games]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} among the countries of Asia; the second largest multi-sports games after the Summer Olympics. Features some sports that are popular in Asia but not contested at the Olympics such as wushu (Chinese martial arts), kabbadi, sepak takraw and dragon boat racing, as well as some globally-popular non-Olympic sports such as tenpin bowling and squash. The Asian Games also have added several popular esports as official medal events. The Winter Asian Games are operated by the same body but feature only winter sports. Normally held in the year before the Winter Olympics. * '''2026''': 19 September–4 October, [[Nagoya]], [[Japan]] * '''2030''': [[Doha]], [[Qatar]] * '''2034''': [[Riyadh]], [[Saudi Arabia]] <!-- ===Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games=== --> ===Bolivarian Games=== * '''2025''': November 23 to December 7 in [[Ayacucho]] and [[Lima]], [[Peru]] ===Central American Games === The Central American Games, only involving the seven nations of [[Central America]]. * '''2025''': 15–31 October, [[Guatemala City]], Guatemala ===Central America and Caribbean Games === The [https://inside.fei.org/fei/games/cont-reg-games/central-american-caribbean Central America and Caribbean Games] — the second oldest international multi-sport games. * '''2026''': 24 July — 8 August, [[Santo Domingo]], [[Dominican Republic]] ===Commonwealth Games=== The [https://www.commonwealthsport.com Commonwealth Games] among the countries of the [[British Empire#Commonwealth countries|Commonwealth of Nations]]; the fourth-largest multi-sports games. Unlike other multi-sport events, para-sports events are held as part of the main games with the able-bodied sports events. Features some non-Olympic sports that are popular in the Commonwealth such as lawn bowls, squash and netball. [[England]], [[Scotland]], [[Wales]] and [[Northern Ireland]] send separate teams to the Commonwealth Games, in contrast to the Olympics where they send a unified [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]] team. The next games in 2026 had been scheduled for the Australian state of Victoria, but the state government pulled out in July 2023, citing financial concerns. [[Glasgow]], Scotland was announced as the new host in September 2024; the 2026 games will be considerably scaled down from past editions, with only 10 sports and no athletes' village. === Deaflympics=== The [https://www.deaflympics.com Deaflympics] is an IOC-sanctioned event for athletes with hearing impairments. Although the sports are largely the same as the Olympics, modifications are made to not rely on sounds such as starter's guns, spoken commands or referee whistles. Separate summer and winter games are held. * '''2025 Summer Deaflympics''': 15–26 November in [[Tokyo]], Japan ===European Games=== The [http://www.european-games.org/ European Games] among [[Europe]]an countries. The newest continental-level multi-sport event, with its first edition in 2015. Also in the year before the Summer Olympics. * '''2027''' in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]; dates TBA ===Gay Games=== The [https://www.gaygames.org Gay Games] attract mostly LGBT athletes, though are open to all. * '''2026''': 27 June to 4 July [[Valencia]], [[Spain]] * '''2030''': Host to be announced in November 2025 ===Jeux de la Francophonie=== [https://www.jeux.francophonie.org Jeux de la Francophonie] among the countries of La Francophonie. The Canadian provinces of [[Quebec]] and [[New Brunswick]] send separate teams from the Canadian team, and the Belgian team is restricted to sending Francophone athletes. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. *'''2027''': July 23 to August 1, [[Yerevan]], Armenia ===National Games of China=== The National Games of China a multi-sport competition between [[China]]'s [[Chinese provinces and regions|provincial level units]], including [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], as well as teams representing the Chinese military and various Chinese industry groups. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. The standards of the diving and table tennis competitions in particular are regarded by most to be even higher than the Olympics. * '''2025''': [[Guangdong]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] <!-- ===Lusofonia Games=== The [http://www.acolop.org/ Lusofonia Games] among the world's Portuguese-speaking countries. Last held in 2014. ===Mediterranean Games=== --> === Maccabiah Games=== The [https://www.maccabiah.com/en/ Maccabiah Games] for Jewish athletes from 85 nations, and Israelis regardless of ethnicity or religion, are the third-largest multi-sports event by number of competitors after the Summer Olympics and Asian Games. Always held in Israel. * '''2025''': July, Israel ===Olympic Games=== {{main|Olympic Games}} * [[Milan–Cortina 2026|'''2026''': Winter Olympics]], 6 – 22 Feb, [[Milan]] and [[Cortina d'Ampezzo|Cortina]], [[Italy]] * [[Los Angeles 2028|'''2028''': Summer Olympics]], 21 Jul - 6 Aug, [[Los Angeles]], [[United States of America|USA]], with softball and canoe slalom to be held in [[Oklahoma City]] * [[French Alps 2030|'''2030''': Winter Olympics]], 1 - 17 Feb, multiple locations in the [[French Alps]], plus [[Nice]], [[France]] and [[Turin]], [[Italy]] * [[Brisbane 2032|'''2032''': Summer Olympics]], 23 Jul - 8 Aug, [[Brisbane]], [[Australia]] * [[Salt Lake City–Utah 2034|'''2034''': Winter Olympics]], 10 - 26 Feb, [[Salt Lake City]], [[United States of America|USA]], with other venues scattered around the state of [[Utah]] ===Pacific Games=== * The [http://websites.sportstg.com/assoc_page.cgi?c=2-2642-0-0-0&sID=24021 Pacific Games] among the countries of [[Oceania]] except Australia and New Zealand. * '''2027''': Pīraʻe, [[Tahiti]] ===Pan American Games=== The [http://www.panamsports.org Pan American Games] among the countries of the Americas. * '''2027''': 16 July — 1 August in [[Lima]], Peru ===South American Games=== A regional multi-sport event held between 15 nations from South America * '''2026''': 12 – 26 September, [[Rosario]] and Rafaela, Argentina ===Southeast Asian Games=== The Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), held every two years in odd-numbered years, among the countries of [[Southeast Asia]]. Features some sports that are only popular in Southeast Asia such as sepak takraw and silat. * '''2025''': 7–19 December, [[Bangkok]], Thailand * '''2027''': [[Kuala Lumpur]], Malaysia * '''2029''': Singapore * '''2031''': Laos * '''2033''': Philippines === Special Olympics=== The [https://www.specialolympics.org Special Olympics] are IOC-sanctioned events for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities. ==== Special Olympics World Summer Games ==== * '''2027''': Dates TBA, [[Perth]], [[Australia]] * '''2031''': Dates TBA, [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] ==== Special Olympics World Winter Games ==== * '''2025''': Dates TBA, [[Turin]] and other venues in the [[Piedmont]] region, [[Italy]] * '''2029''': Dates TBA, [[Chur]] and other venues in the [[Graubünden]] canton, [[Switzerland]] <!-- ===Student Games=== --> ===World Games=== Held every four years in the year after the summer Olympic Games. No events overlap with any contested in the Olympics. Many of the sports are not part of the Olympic program at all; the World Games also feature many non-Olympic disciplines or events within Olympic sports. The events are organized by the International World Games Association, which is recognized by the IOC. * '''2025''': 7–17 July, [[Chengdu]], China * '''2029''': 19–29 July, [[Karlsruhe]], Germany ==Events for a single sport== ===American football=== {{main|American football}} ==== National Football League ==== * '''Super Bowl LX''' – 8 February 2026 at Levi's Stadium in [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]], [[California]] (home to the San Francisco 49ers). * '''Super Bowl LXI''' – 14 February 2027 at SoFi Stadium in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Inglewood]], California (home to the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams). * '''Super Bowl LXII''' – Date TBA in February 2028 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in [[Atlanta/Downtown|downtown]] [[Atlanta]], Georgia (home to the Atlanta Falcons). =====NFL International Series===== At least five regular season games, with three in [[London]] (England) and at least two in other countries. The NFL has contracts with two London venues, namely Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The nominal home teams for the 2025 games have been announced (the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley, the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets at Spurs, the Indianapolis Colts in Berlin, the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin). The date for the Dublin game has been announced; other dates are expected to be announced in spring 2025.<!--Following standard US usage, the second team listed is the designated "home" team.--> ======NFL games in Mexico====== The NFL first held a regular season game in Mexico in 2005. Despite good attendance, the league did not return until the 2016 season, the first of what was meant to be a three-year deal to hold one game each season in that country. With both the 2016 and 2017 games selling out, the deal was extended through the 2021 season with an eye to possibly play more than one game per season in future years. All Mexico games thus far have been held in Estadio Azteca in [[Mexico City]]. The most recent Mexico game was in 2022. With Estadio Azteca being renovated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there will be no Mexico games until at least the 2026 season. ======NFL games in Germany====== In February 2022, the NFL announced a four-year agreement to expand the NFL International Series in Germany. The games were originally to be split between the Allianz Arena in Munich and Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt. The first game was held in the 2022 season. With the Mexico game being put on hold due to stadium renovations, there were two Germany games in 2023, both in Frankfurt. The 2024 game was held in Munich with the Carolina Panthers "hosting" and defeating the New York Giants. Berlin is joining the list of Germany hosts, with Olympiastadion set to host its first game at a so-far-undetermined date in 2025. ======NFL games in Brazil====== The NFL announced in November 2023 it would extend its International Series to Brazil. The first game in that country was held on September 6, 2024, with the Philadelphia Eagles "hosting" and defeating the Green Bay Packers at Arena Corinthians in [[São Paulo]]. Another Brazil game will be held on September 5, 2025, again at Arena Corinthians, with the Los Angeles Chargers as "host". ======NFL games in Spain====== Shortly after announcing the expansion to Brazil, the NFL extended the series to Spain. The first game in Spain will be held in 2025 at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in [[Madrid]] with the Miami Dolphins as "host". ======NFL games in Ireland====== The NFL has also extended the series to Ireland, with the first game being "hosted" by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 at Croke Park in [[Dublin]]. ======NFL games in Australia====== In 2026, the NFL expands its "International Series" to Australia, with the first game of the regular season being played at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground with the Los Angeles Rams "hosting". ==== US college football ==== * '''College Football Playoff National Championship''' ** 2026: Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], [[Florida]] (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 19 ** 2027: Allegiant Stadium in [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|Paradise]], [[Nevada]] (home of the Las Vegas Raiders); January 25 ** 2028: Caesars Superdome in [[New Orleans]], [[Louisiana]] (home of the New Orleans Saints); January 24 ** 2029: Raymond James Stadium in [[Tampa]], [[Florida]] (home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers); January 22 ** 2030: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 21 Each of these games is the championship for the previous calendar year. The bulk of the American football season takes place in the northern hemisphere fall/autumn. ====European League of Football==== * '''ELF Championship Game''' – 2025 edition at Neckarstadion (aka MHPArena) in [[Stuttgart]], Germany at a date in September to be determined ====German Football League==== * [http://www.germanbowl.de/ German Bowl] – 2025 host TBA ===Australian rules football=== {{main|Australian rules football}} ====Australian Football League==== * '''2025 AFL Grand Final''' at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground – 27 September ===Badminton=== Badminton is generally most popular in Asia, and Asian countries generally dominate the international tournaments; Denmark is the only non-Asian country to be considered a badminton powerhouse. Although badminton is popularly regarded as a backyard sport in the United States and often played outdoors recreationally, professional badminton is almost always played indoors. The '''[https://bwfworldtour.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour]''' is the premier professional tournament circuit, and is divided into six tiers. The top tier is occupied by a single tournament: the season-concluding '''[https://bwfworldtourfinals.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour Finals]''' in December every year. This is planned to be held in [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] until at least 2026. All BWF World Tour tournaments feature both men's and women's tournaments, as well as a mixed doubles tournament. The next tier is the BWF World Tour Super 1000, comprising the four most important tournaments on the circuit apart from the Finals, offering the largest number of ranking points and amount of prize money. As of 2024, they are as follows: *'''Malaysia Open''' — held in January every year at the Putra Indoor Stadium in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. *'''[https://www.allenglandbadminton.com All England Open]''' — the oldest international badminton tournament in the world, and the most prestigious tournament on the circuit. Held in March every year at the Arena Birmingham in [[Birmingham]]. *'''China Open''' — held in September every year. Since 2018, has been held at the Xincheng Gymnasium in [[Changzhou]]. *'''Indonesia Open''' — held in November every year at the Istora Gelora Bung Karno in [[Jakarta]]. Below that is the BWF World Tour 750, which offer less ranking points and prize money, but generally still attract most of the top players. *'''China Masters''' — held in November at the Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium in [[Shenzhen]]. *'''[https://denmarkopen.dk/ Denmark Open]''' — held in October at the Arena Fyn in [[Odense]]. *'''[https://www.yonexifb.com/uk/home French Open]''' — usually held in October, but the 2024 event was held in March at the Adidas Arena in [[Paris]] as a trial event for the Olympics. *'''[https://daihatsu-japan-open.com/ Japan Open]''' — held in August at the Yokohama Arena in [[Yokohama]]. *'''India Open''' — held in January at the K. D. Jadhav Indoor Hall in [[Delhi]]. *'''Singapore Open''' — held in late May or early June at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]]. The '''[https://bwfworldchampionships.bwfbadminton.com World Championships]''' are held every year except in Olympic years. Badminton has been an Olympic sport since 1992, with the Olympics generally being considered the premier tournament in the sport. There is also the '''Thomas Cup''' for men's national teams, and the '''Uber Cup''' for women's national teams, which mostly operate as multi-level leagues. ===Baseball=== {{seealso|Baseball|Baseball in the United States}} * World Baseball Classic * '''[https://www.seriedelcaribe.net/ Caribbean Series]''' (''Serie del Caribe'') is a championship tournament held in February each year. Champion teams from professional baseball leagues of various Caribbean and Latin American countries compete for the championship. * '''Little League World Series''' – Held over 10 days, ending on the last Sunday of August, in [[Williamsport|South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA]]. ===Basketball=== ====NBA==== {{seealso|Basketball in North America}} ====US college basketball==== The biggest event in US college (university) basketball is the NCAA Division I men's tournament, featuring 68 teams. The Division I women's tournament draws considerably less interest, but is still the biggest event in American women's college sports. The men's tournament begins on the Tuesday preceding the third Thursday in March (in terms of dates, no earlier than March 13 and no later than March 19) in [[Dayton|Dayton, Ohio]] with an eight-team round marketed as the First Four, featuring two games on Tuesday and two on Wednesday. The winners of these four games join the remaining 60 tournament teams for the first round, which starts on the third Thursday in March. The women's tournament expanded from 64 teams to 68 starting in 2022, with its own First Four; it starts the day after the men's tournament. The four-team final rounds of these tournaments are known as the Final Four. Future Final Four sites are: ;Men * 2026 – April 4 and 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in [[Indianapolis]] * 2027 – April 3 and 5 at Ford Field in [[Detroit]] * 2028 – April 1 and 3 at Allegiant Stadium just [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|west]] of the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Las Vegas Strip]] * 2029 – March 31 and April 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis * 2030 – April 6 and 8 at AT&T Stadium in [[Arlington (Texas)|Arlington, Texas]], between [[Dallas]] and [[Fort Worth]] ;Women * 2026 – April 3 and 5 at PHX Arena in [[Phoenix]] * 2027 – April 2 and 4 at Nationwide Arena in [[Columbus|Columbus, Ohio]] * 2028 – March 31 and April 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis * 2029 – March 30 and April 1 at the Alamodome in San Antonio * 2030 – April 5 and 7 at Moda Center in [[Portland (Oregon)|Portland, Oregon]] * 2031 – April 4 and 6 at American Airlines Center in Dallas ====EuroLeague==== The EuroLeague is basketball's equivalent to the UEFA Champions League in association football (soccer), featuring top club teams from throughout Europe (note that in sports, "Europe" includes several countries either partly or totally in Asia, most notably Russia, Turkey, and Israel). The season starts in October and ends with the '''EuroLeague Final Four''' in May. * 2026 – May 22 and 24 in either Athens or Belgrade (site TBA) ===Canadian football=== {{seealso|American football#Canadian Football League}} * '''112th Grey Cup''' at Princess Auto Stadium in [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]] (home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers); November 16, 2025 * '''113th Grey Cup''' at McMahon Stadium in [[Calgary/Northwest|northwest]] [[Calgary]], [[Alberta]] (home of the Calgary Stampeders); November 15, 2026 ===Cricket=== {{main|Cricket}} * '''[https://www.lords.org/lords/our-history/the-ashes The Ashes]''' — November 2025–January 2026 at the following venues in [[Australia]]: ** [[Perth]] Stadium, in the [[Perth/The Suburbs|northern suburb]] of Burswood — 21–25 November 2025 ** The Gabba, in the [[Brisbane]] suburb of Wooloongabba — 4–8 December 2025 ** [[Adelaide]] Oval, in the [[Adelaide/City and North Adelaide|parklands]] between the central business district and North Adelaide — 17–21 December 2025 ** [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground, in Yarra Park in the city's [[Melbourne/Inner east|inner east]] — 26–30 December 2025. The traditional Boxing Day Test at the MCG is one of the sport's most iconic events. ** [[Sydney]] Cricket Ground, in Moore Park in the [[Sydney/City East|inner eastern suburbs]] — 4—8 January 2026 * '''Cricket World Cup''' — October—November 2027, co-hosted by [[South Africa]], [[Zimbabwe]] and [[Namibia]]. ===Cycling=== Road bicycle racing is broadly divided into two race types: * '''Single-day races''' — Exactly as the name implies, these races are held on a single day at around the same time each year. Some have fixed courses; more have fixed starting and end points with courses varying slightly from year to year. The most prestigious races of this type are often called "classics", but the term is poorly defined. * '''Stage races''' — Held over more than one day, with one race each day known as a "stage" (though some races, notably the Grand Tours, will include one or two rest days). While there is an award ceremony at the end of each stage, the overall winner is determined by "general classification"—the cumulative time for the entire race. The most famous road racing events for bicycles in the world are the three stage races known as Grand Tours. They are raced in Italy, France, and Spain but commonly also include legs in other countries. These tours, each featuring 21 stages, involve only men's races, and are even more prestigious than the road cycling events at the Olympics. * '''[https://www.giroditalia.it Giro d'Italia]''' — around Italy, usually takes place in May. * '''[https://www.letour.fr/en/ Tour de France]''' — around France, usually takes place in July. The most prestigious of the three. * '''[https://www.lavuelta.es/en Vuelta a España]''' — around Spain, usually takes place in August. While countless single-day races are run, both throughout Europe and worldwide, the most famous are the five races known as "Monuments", all of which were first held between 1890 and 1915. * '''[[Milan]]–[[Sanremo|San Remo]]''' (Italian: ''Milano–Sanremo'') – The first major classic of the year, usually on the third Saturday of March on a course between the two named locations. It's considered "the sprinters' classic" because its mostly flat course favors that type of rider. * '''Tour of [[Flanders]]''' (Dutch: ''Ronde van Vlaanderen'') – Held in early April through [[Belgium]]'s Flanders region between [[Antwerp]] and [[Oudenaarde]]. The first of the "cobbled classics", with many key sections (including several short but very steep hills) paved in cobblestones. * '''[[Paris]]–[[Roubaix]]''' – Probably ''the'' most famous single-day race, it's known as the "Queen of the Classics" and ''l'Enfer du Nord'' ("The Hell of the North [of France]"). Held one week after the Tour of Flanders, it features even longer stretches of cobblestone roads, making it arguably the hardest single-day race on riders. * '''[[Liège]]–[[Bastogne]]–Liège''' – Held in late April in Belgium, this race is nearly as hard on riders as Paris–Roubaix, but for different reasons, namely a long course with numerous short but steep hills in the [[Ardennes]] region, as well as an uphill finish in Liège. * '''Giro di [[Lombardy|Lombardia]]''' (officially ''Il Lombardia'') – The year's final Monument, held in October over a course that varies from year to year, with only a few fixed locations, most famously the arduous climb to the Madonna del Ghisallo church in Magreglio near Lake Como. The race ends in either [[Bergamo]] or [[Como]]. Known as "the climbers' classic" from its many significant climbs. Cycling is also featured at the Summer Olympics in 4 disciplines; track cycling, road cycling, mountain biking and BMX. With the exception of the men's road cycling discipline, these are generally considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of cycling. <!-- ===Gaelic football=== --> ===Golf=== {{main|Golf}} The most important professional golf tournaments in the world are knowns as the '''majors''', offering the largest amounts of prize money and world ranking points. The men's and women's professional circuits are run separately, with a separate set of majors for each sex. The most important men's professional circuit is the U.S.-based PGA Tour, while the corresponding professional circuit for women is the LPGA Tour, also based in the U.S. The PGA and LPGA also sanction some tournaments outside the U.S., and some tournaments are co-sanctioned by multiple professional circuits. For instance, all the men's majors are co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour, the European Tour and the Japan Golf Tour. Golf was an Olympic sport 1900–1904, and has been one since 2016. The Olympic golf tournament is less prestigious than the majors and offers no prize money, and many of the top male golfers choose to skip it, but the top female golfers usually participate. ====Men's==== ;Major championships Three of the four men's major championships are held in the U.S. The only exception is The Open Championship, also known as the "British Open". Each tournament is played from Thursday through Sunday, barring weather-related delays, and has a fixed weekend on the calendar. Tickets for practice sessions during the days before the tournament starts are also sold. A golfer who wins all four majors in the same calendar year is said to have completed the '''Grand Slam''', which has yet to be achieved (Tiger Woods won all four consecutively, but spanning two calendar years starting from the 2000 U.S. Open to the 2001 Masters Tournament; at the time, the PGA Championship was the year's final major, instead of the second). * '''Masters Tournament''' (always held at Augusta National Golf Club in [[Augusta (Georgia)|Augusta]], [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]) – ends on the second Sunday in April. The next edition is set for 9–12 April 2026. * '''PGA Championship''' – ends on the third Sunday of May; next edition to be held 14–17 May 2026 at Aronimink Golf Club in the [[Philadelphia]] suburb of Newtown Square, [[Pennsylvania]]. ** Sites have been set through 2034, with the exception of 2033. * '''U.S. Open''' – ends on the third Sunday in June; next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in [[Southampton (New York)|Southampton]], New York (near the eastern end of [[Long Island]], about 85 miles/140 km from Midtown Manhattan). ** Sites have been set through 2042, as well as for most subsequent years through 2051. * '''The Open Championship''' – played during the week containing the third Friday in July; next edition to be held 17–20 July 2025 at Royal [[Portrush]] Golf Club in [[County Antrim]], [[Northern Ireland]] (about 60 mi/100 km from [[Belfast]] and 35 mi/60 km from [[Derry|Derry/Londonderry]]. The tournament returns to the historic Old Course at [[St Andrews]] every few years, and is of special significance when it does. ** The 2026 edition will be played at Royal Birkdale in [[Southport]] from 16–19 July. ** The 2027 edition will be held at the Old Course from 15–18 July. ;Other significant events * '''Ryder Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in odd-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2025 – 26–28 September at the Black Course of [[Bethpage]] State Park on [[Long Island]] (about 35 miles/56 km east of Midtown Manhattan) ** 2027 – 17-19 September at [[Adare]] Manor in [[County Limerick]], [[Ireland]] ** 2029 – Dates TBA in September at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota (a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]) *'''Presidents Cup''' (competition between a USA team and an "International" team of non-Europeans) – Held in even-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and a non-European country ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Medinah Country Club in [[Medinah]], [[Illinois]] (a northwest suburb of [[Chicago]]). ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia (a [[Melbourne/South-Eastern suburbs|southeastern suburb]] of [[Melbourne]]). ** 2030 – Dates TBA at Bellerive Country Club in Town and Country, [[Missouri]] (in the West County region of [[St. Louis County]], which borders on the city of [[St. Louis]]). ====Women's==== ;Major championships Three of the five women's major championships are held in the U.S. As with the men's major championships, all are held from Thursday through Sunday (barring weather delays). * '''Chevron Championship''' (held at The Club at Carlton Woods in [[The Woodlands]], Texas, about 30 mi/50 km north of [[Houston]]) – The next edition is expected to be 23–26 April 2026. * '''U.S. Women's Open''' – Next edition to be held 4–7 June 2026 at Riviera Country Club in the [[Los Angeles]] neighborhood of [[Pacific Palisades]]. ** Future sites have been set through 2036, and for several subsequent years through 2048. * '''Women's PGA Championship''' – Next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]. * '''The Evian Championship''' (always held at the Evian Resort Golf Club in [[Evian|Évian-les-Bains]], [[France]]) – Typically held in July, though the dates haven't been consistent from year to year. The next edition will be from 10–13 July 2025. * '''Women's Open Championship''' (aka "Women's British Open") – From 2025, three weeks after the Evian Championship, allowing the tour to go on a European swing. The 2025 edition will be at Royal [[Porthcawl]] Golf Club in Wales from 31 July–3 August. ;Other significant events * '''Solheim Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in even-numbered years (from 2024) in August or September; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, [[Netherlands]] (just south of [['s-Hertogenbosch|Den Bosch]]) ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Valhalla Golf Club in [[Louisville|Louisville, Kentucky]] (slightly less than 20 mi/32 km east of downtown) * '''International Crown''' (team competition involving seven national teams, plus a "World" team made up of players not from one of the preceding seven countries) – From 2023, held in odd-numbered years in October ** 2025 – 23–26 October at New Korea Country Club in [[Goyang]], [[South Korea]] ===Handball=== {{see also|Handball in Europe}} Olympic or team Handball is a fast paced team sport that is mostly played indoors and enjoys considerable popularity in most of continental Europe. The world cup as well as the European championship are major events, second only to soccer. The best national leagues (found in Germany, France and the Nordic countries) battle out a club champion every year. There is also the [http://www.ehfcl.com EHF Champions League] which battles out Europe's top club team every year. === Ice hockey === {{seealso|Ice hockey in North America|Ice hockey in Europe}} ==== Men's ==== ;IIHF Men's World Championship * 2026: 15–31 May, [[Zurich|Zürich]] and [[Fribourg]], [[Switzerland]] * 2027: 14–30 May, [[Düsseldorf]] and [[Mannheim]], [[Germany]] * 2028: 12–28 May, [[Paris]] and [[Lyon]], [[France]] ==== Women's ==== ;IIHF Women's World Championship Since 2022, the top level of the Women's World Championships has been held annually, even in Winter Olympic years. From 1997–2021, the top level was an annual affair, but Winter Olympic years were skipped. * 2026: Host, dates, and sites TBA ===Motor racing=== {{seealso|Motor sport}} ====[[Formula One]]==== See the dedicated article. ====NASCAR==== A U.S. stock car racing organization, and the country's most popular form of motorsport. The term "stock car" is a historic reference; when NASCAR first organized races in the years immediately after World War II, the cars were in fact "stock"—exactly as purchased from dealers, with minimal safety-related changes. Over time, the cars changed to the point that they are only vaguely similar in external appearance to current street vehicles, with much more powerful engines and far more safety equipment. NASCAR now operates three national touring series: * Cup Series, the top series * Xfinity Series, the second level * Craftsman Truck Series, the third level, which races pickup trucks instead of cars; usually called simply the "Truck Series" Most races are held on oval tracks. For many years, no more than one or two Cup Series races were held on road courses, but since 2021 that number has gone up to six. Five Xfinity Series races and three Truck Series are also held on road courses. Before COVID-19, the Truck Series held one race in Canada, but border restrictions led to that date being transferred south of the border, and NASCAR has yet to return any of its U.S. national series to Canada (although it runs a separate Canadian series). The sport used to be centered in the Southeastern U.S., but beginning in the 1990s it expanded to become a national spectacle. A typical NASCAR event spans a long weekend, with two or even all three series holding races at one site. Unlike most sports, NASCAR's biggest event is the ''first'' race of the season: * '''Daytona 500''', held on the day before the Presidents Day holiday (which falls on the third Monday of February) at Daytona International Speedway in [[Daytona Beach]], [[Florida]] ====IndyCar==== A U.S.-based open-wheel racing series. It was established in its current form in 2008, when the IndyCar Series (launched in 1996) merged with the former Champcars series. The merger is a story in itself—as late as the early 1990s, open-wheel racing, governed by a body known as CART (which later became Champcars), was the most popular form of motorsport in the U.S. However, in 1994, the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the series' marquee event, the Indianapolis 500, had a bitter falling-out with CART, leading to the creation of the competing IndyCar series (which took the Indy 500 with it). The feud led many former open-wheel fans to abandon the sport, often for NASCAR. By the time the feud ended, attendance and sponsorship money for the sport were a fraction of what they had been only 15 years earlier, and only in the late 2010s had it begun to recover some of its original prominence. All of the series' races are held in the U.S. except for one on a street course in [[Toronto]]. The tracks are a mixture of ovals, road courses, and street circuits. The series' marquee event, as mentioned above, is: * '''Indianapolis 500''', held the day before the U.S. holiday of Memorial Day (which falls on the last Monday of May) at the [[Indianapolis]] Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana (a community completely surrounded by the city of Indianapolis) ==== Motorcycle speedway ==== Motorcycle speedway is a sport where lightweight motorcycles race each other on an oval-shaped track. It is most popular in [[Poland]] but also has a major presence in [[Australia]], [[Britain]], and [[Sweden]]. ===== Important events ===== *'''Speedway Grand Prix''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's late spring, summer, and early fall. *'''Speedway of Nations''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's summer (usually June or July). ===Rugby=== {{main|Rugby football}} ====Rugby union==== * 2025 '''Rugby Championship''', various locations in [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], and [[South Africa]]. Normally held August–October, with an abbreviated and time-shifted version held in years of the men's Rugby World Cup. * 2025: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to Australia, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in England, 22 August–27 September *** Note that World Rugby, the governing body for union, uses the "Rugby World Cup" name for both its men's and women's championship events. * 2026 '''Six Nations Championship''', February–March: ** [[Cardiff]], Principality Stadium (Millennium Stadium) ** [[Dublin]], Aviva Stadium ** [[Edinburgh]], Scottish Gas Murrayfield ** [[London]], Twickenham Stadium ** [[Rome]], Stadio Olimpico ** [[Saint-Denis (Île-de-France)|Saint-Denis]] ([[Paris]]), Stade de France * 2027 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2029: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to New Zealand, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2031 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in the United States, dates TBA * 2033: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to South Africa, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in the United States, dates TBA ====Rugby sevens==== * '''World Rugby Sevens Series''' and '''World Rugby Women's Sevens Series''': A series of 8 tournaments for national men's and women's sevens teams held at various locations around the world. In the current format, all events see both sexes compete on the same weekend. Marketed as the '''HSBC SVNS''' (with HSBC being the main corporate sponsor). World Rugby has scrapped the former Rugby World Cup Sevens, making the annual SVNS series its effective successor. ** '''[[Dubai]] Sevens''' – The traditional season opener, held on the weekend including the first Saturday in December at a stadium known as The Sevens. ** '''South Africa Sevens''' – Held on the weekend after the Dubai Sevens at [[Cape Town]] Stadium. ** '''Australian Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of January at [[Perth]] Rectangular Stadium (commercially HBF Park). ** '''Canada Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of February at BC Place in [[Vancouver/Yaletown-False Creek|downtown]] [[Vancouver]]. ** '''USA Sevens''' – Held the weekend after the Canada Sevens at Dignity Health Sports Park in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Carson|Carson, California]]. ** '''[[Hong Kong]] Sevens''' – The most famous men's event. Held in early April at Hong Kong Stadium in So Kon Po, in the [[Hong Kong/Eastern District|east]] of Hong Kong Island. ** '''[[Singapore]] Sevens''' – Held in early May at the National Stadium in Kallang, a district just to the [[Singapore/East Coast|northeast]] of the Downtown Core. ** '''[[Madrid]] Sevens''' – The final event, held at Estadio Metropolitano in the city's [[Madrid/Northern Suburbs|northern]] San Blas district. ====Rugby league==== =====National Rugby League===== *'''NRL Grand Final''' – The first or second Saturday of October at the Sydney Cricket Ground, just [[Sydney/Eastern Suburbs|east of the city centre]]. *'''State of Origin''' series – three matches in all in May–July. One match is normally held in the capital city of each state represented: Stadium Australia (aka Accor Stadium) in the [[Sydney/Sydney Olympic Park|Sydney Olympic Park]], and Lang Park (aka Suncorp Stadium) in [[Brisbane]]. The third game rotates between several cities outside New South Wales and Queensland: [[Adelaide]] (Adelaide Oval), [[Melbourne]] (Melbourne Cricket Ground), and [[Perth]] (Perth Stadium, aka Optus Stadium). =====Super League===== *'''Super League Grand Final''' – =====International===== *'''2026 Rugby League World Cup''' - [[France]] ===Soccer=== {{seealso|Association football|Association football in Europe}} ====Men's==== * '''2025''' FIFA U-17 World Cup, 3–27 November in [[Qatar]]. This becomes an annual event starting in 2025, with Qatar confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2025''' FIFA U-20 World Cup, 27 September–19 October in several cities in [[Chile]] (final most likely in [[Santiago]]) * '''2026''' FIFA World Cup in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], and [[Mexico]]; 11 June–19 July (final in [[East Rutherford]], New Jersey, near New York City) ====Women's==== * '''2025''' [https://www.fifa.com/u17womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, 17 October–8 November in [[Morocco]]. Starting in 2025, this becomes an annual event, with Morocco confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2026''' [https://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup],{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} 5–27 September in [[Poland]] * '''2027''' FIFA Women's World Cup in [[Brazil]], 24 June–25 July ===Table tennis=== [[China]] has been the world's dominant force in table tennis since at least the 1980s, so it comes as no surprise that the '''China Table Tennis Super League''' (CTTSL) is one of the best tournaments in the world, featuring not only the best players from all over China, but several top international players as well. The main international professional circuit is known as '''[https://worldtabletennis.com/ World Table Tennis]''' (WTT), of which the top level is known as the '''WTT Series'''. The most important WTT Series tournaments, offering the most world ranking points and prize money, are known as the '''Grand Smashes''', of which there are three, as of 2024: *'''[https://www.singaporesmash.com Singapore Smash]''' — held in March at the Singapore Sports Hub in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]] *'''[https://www.saudismash.com Saudi Smash]''' — held in May at King Abdullah Sports City in [[Jeddah]] *'''China Smash''' — held in late September and early October at Shougang Park in [[Beijing]] The season-concluding tournament of the WTT Series is the '''WTT Finals''', featuring the top 16 singles players and top 8 doubles pairs of each sex. The 2024 WTT Finals will be held from 20-24 November at the [[Kitakyushu]] General Gymnasium. Table tennis is also contested at the Summer Olympics, which is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport. The table tennis event at the Olympics consists of men's and women's singles, men's and women's teams, and a mixed doubles event. There is also the annual '''World Table Tennis Championships''', which is contested between individuals and doubles pairs in odd years, and between national teams in even years. ===Tennis=== ''See also [[Tennis]].'' Tennis has events throughout the calendar year. The top-level men's tour is the ATP Tour, with the WTA Tour as the women's counterpart. The men's and women's tours come together for the four '''Grand Slam''' events and a few other select tournaments throughout the year. The only players to have ever completed the Grand Slam are Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 & 1969) in the men's event, and Maureen Connolly (1953), Margaret Court (1970) and Steffi Graf (1988) in the women's event. In addition to these, the '''[https://www.daviscup.com/ Davis Cup]''' for men and '''[https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/ Billie Jean King Cup]''' (known as the Fed Cup until 2020) for women are the top events for national teams; these operate as multi-level leagues. The top levels (now known as the "Finals" in both events) were traditionally conducted as knockout tournaments, but now use a format similar to that of the FIFA World Cup, with all qualifying nations meeting at a single site for a group stage followed by a knockout stage. A player who wins all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year is said to have completed a '''golden slam''', and the only able-bodied player to have done so to date was Germany's Steffi Graf in 1988. (The doubles partnership of American identical twins Bob and Mike Bryan, aka the Bryan Brothers, won all of the required events consecutively, but their streak started with the 2012 Olympics, thus spanning two calendar years. Two wheelchair tennis players have completed the calendar-year golden slam, with their version replacing the able-bodied Olympics with the Paralympic Games.) At the professional level, tennis court surfaces can be divided into three types: grass, clay and hard. Each of these surfaces has a different bounce profile for the ball, thus favouring different playing styles. While all professional tennis players are competent on all three surfaces, some players are known to excel on particular surfaces; for instance, Rafael Nadal was known for his excellence on clay courts during his prime, while Roger Federer was well-known for his prowess on grass courts. Most ATP and WTA events feature both singles and doubles tournaments, with Grand Slams and the Olympics also featuring a mixed doubles tournament. ====Grand Slam events==== All four of these events are held over two weeks (15 days of play at all events except Wimbledon, still at 14). They are considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of tennis, and are even more prestigious than the Olympics. * '''[https://ausopen.com/ Australian Open]''': Ends on the last Sunday in January at [[Melbourne]] Park just outside the city centre. Frequently suffers from hot and humid weather in the southern summer, although this has been alleviated by retractable roofs on the three main courts. The final is held in the Rod Laver Arena, which is named after Rod Laver, the only player to have completed a grand slam twice, and the last man to achieve the feat when he did so in 1969. Has been played on hard courts since 1988. * '''[https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/ French Open]''' (also known as ''Roland Garros''): Held in late May and early June at ''Stade Roland Garros'' in the Bois de Boulogne in the [[Paris/16th arrondissement|16th arondissement]] of [[Paris]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event still held on clay courts. * '''[https://www.wimbledon.com/ Wimbledon]''': Begins on the first Monday in July and ends on the second Sunday following at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in the [[London/Wimbledon|Wimbledon]] neighbourhood of southwest [[London]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event held on grass courts, requiring all players to dress only in white (though women are now allowed to wear colored underwear to better hide menstruation), and many other traditions. The oldest and most prestigious of the Grand Slams. * '''[https://www.usopen.org/ US Open]''': Begins in August, on the Sunday that precedes the weekend of the US holiday of Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September. Ends on the Sunday following Labor Day. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in the northern part of the [[New York City]] borough of [[Queens]]. Has been played on hard courts since 1978. ====Season-ending championships==== Both the ATP and WTA have season-ending events for the very top players, with eight players qualifying for the finals in singles and eight teams in doubles. The competitors are divided into two groups of four, each playing a round-robin within the group. The top two finishers in each group advance to the semifinals, with the winners of each semifinal contesting the final. * '''[https://www.nittoatpfinals.com/en ATP Finals]''': Mid-November at Pala Alpitour (aka Palasport Olimpico) in [[Turin]], Italy. * '''[https://www.wtatennis.com/wta-finals WTA Finals]''': Late October–early November in [[Riyadh]], Saudi Arabia. In the mid-2010s, the WTA Tour launched the '''WTA Elite Trophy''', a second season-ending event for players immediately below those who qualify for the WTA Finals. It was suspended because Covid-19 from 2020 to 2020.. ====Other top-tier events==== Both the ATP and WTA have a multi-level hierarchy of events, with the Grand Slams at the top, followed by the season-ending championships and then the events shown here (with other levels below these in both cases). The two tours have differing terminology for this level: * ATP: Nine events known as the "ATP Tour Masters 1000". All top players are required to enter these events (barring injury or other misfortune), with the exception of the Monte-Carlo Masters. * WTA: The "WTA 1000" was established in 2021 by the merger of the former "Premier Mandatory" and "Premier 5" events. Since 2024, there have been ten WTA 1000 tournaments, all of which are mandatory. * Olympics: The tennis event at the Olympics is less prestigious than the Grand Slams, and many top players choose to skip it, while those who compete often do not take it seriously and lose to little-known lower-ranked opponents. Moreover, the Olympics typically falls in the middle of the U.S. hard court season, meaning that players miss important tournaments and lose valuable ranking points in their quest to qualify for the season-ending championships should they choose to participate. That said, there is a special prestige attached to winning all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in a single calendar year, known as a golden slam. Unlike in the professional circuits, doubles pairs at the Olympics must be from the same country. With that in mind, here are the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events: * '''[[Qatar]] Ladies Open''': Mid-February at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in [[Doha]]. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Dubai]] Tennis Championships''': Late February at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour also plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''Indian Wells Masters''' (men) and '''Indian Wells Open''' (women): Early March in [[Indian Wells]], California (near Palm Springs). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Miami Open''': Late March–early April at Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], Florida (north of the city of Miami). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Monte-Carlo Masters''': Mid-April at Monte Carlo Country Club in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, next to Monaco. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Madrid]] Open''': Mid-May at Caja Mágica in Madrid. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Italian Open''': Week following the Madrid Open at Foro Italico in Rome. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Canadian Open''': Early August at Stade IGA in Montreal and Sobeys Stadium (formerly Aviva Centre) in Toronto. In odd-numbered years, the men play in Montreal and the women in Toronto, and vice versa in even-numbered years. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Cincinnati Masters''' (men) and '''Cincinnati Open''' (women): Week after the Canadian Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in [[Mason (Ohio)|Mason, Ohio]], northeast of [[Cincinnati]]. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Wuhan]] Open''': Last week of September at Optics Valley International Tennis Center. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''China Open''': Start of October, immediately following the Wuhan Open, at the National Tennis Center in [[Beijing]]. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''[[Shanghai]] Masters''': Week after the China Open at Qi Zhong Stadium in the southwest of the city. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Paris]] Masters''': Late October–early November at AccorHotels Arena in the [[Paris/12th arrondissement|12th arrondissement]]. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' The Grand Slams, tour finals and ATP Masters 1000/WTA 1000 tournaments are collectively known as the '''Big Titles'''. Serbia's Novak Djokovic is the only singles player of either sex to have won all the Big Titles in the course of his career, and was said to have "completed the game of tennis" by adding the Olympic gold medal to those in 2024. Three other men's players, all retired, have won all of the Big Titles in doubles—Canadian Daniel Nestor as an individual, and the aforementioned Bryan Brothers as a team. All also have Olympic gold medals in doubles. Djokovic and the Bryans have also been on national teams that won the Davis Cup. ==Stay safe== Take precautions typical for [[Stay safe#Mass gatherings|large crowds]] and major events, with risk factors such as [[pickpocketing]], [[infectious diseases]], drunk brawls and stampedes. '''Hooliganism''' is organized violence associated with sport fandom, in particular prevalent in [[association football in Europe|men's football in Europe]]. The risk of hooliganism differs between countries and teams, and might be difficult to assess from a neutral source. {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Sports}} k0mj9o56gigbhcvz5cmueeuzovvw8tr 5090957 5090956 2025-07-10T16:42:05Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Bolivarian Games */ 5090957 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|MalmöFF Fans banner.jpg|caption=Fans of Malmö FF, a Swedish football team}} '''Spectator sports''' are those where the players are greatly outnumbered by their audience, often a thousandfold and sometimes a millionfold for the biggest events. These usually involve travel, often long-distance, so there is a distinct experience of sports travel for those crowds, covered on this page. See [[Sports]] for those you participate in yourself, watched (if at all) by a few family members or ex-players. See [[Activities]] for the broader sphere of mostly non-competitive pastimes such as bird-watching. == Understand == [[File:Olympic Torch 2010.jpg | thumb | 300px | Lighting the Olympic flame from the sun]] Spectator sports have a long history: in the western tradition this is exemplified by the ancient Olympic Games. But mass travelling audiences only emerged in the 19th century, with the development of leisure time, disposable income, and public transport. Indeed the Olympics are a 19th-century reinvention, with the ancient event lapsing around 400 AD and the modern version launching in Athens in 1896. In the 19th and 20th centuries, three tribes emerged: an elite of professional players, an audience watching them direct or on TV or internet, and the "grassroots" playing at amateur or junior level. Of course there is overlap, but the stark feature today is how different those worlds have become; certainly their travel experiences could not be more different. The divergence caused great soul-searching in sports associations, and sometimes acrimonious splits. It's no spoiler to say that big money and big business won, and spectator sports are designed to extract their followers' cash not only by gate receipts, but by advertising and sponsorship, by merchandising, by broadcasting rights, and by gambling. Spectator sports are also a matter of national prestige and policy: countries market themselves as sports destination, and by "sports-washing" deflect attention from their unattractive regimes. The live audience for big events is nowadays greatly outnumbered by TV and internet viewers, and developments in virtual reality promise to take this further. But for the time being, the crowd is essential to the event. They descend in partisan masses upon the host city, throng the pubs and transport hubs, and book up accommodation. Their chants and slogans, team regalia, cheers and boos, all create an intense atmosphere. Alcohol-fuelled violence has too often been a by-product. Early spectators simply milled around the playing area, craning to see the action. It's still like that in golf, where crowds follow their favourite player from hole to hole, and in on-road races for cycling and motor sports where the biggest audience is close to the finish line but people find vantage points all along the way. Larger crowds made this unmanageable for most sports, so embankments then stadiums were built: modern examples are huge and architecturally exciting. Stadiums may be multi-purpose or dedicated to one sport, and a big division is between those for ball games, and those incorporating a running track, which makes them suitable for Olympics but distances the crowd. They may be "borrowed" for events, for instance international rugby matches may use a soccer stadium simply for extra capacity. The upkeep of a stadium (even a small one) is usually part-financed by a sponsorship deal, so they change their names for the length of the deal, sometimes just for a specific event. Signage on streets and public transport can't keep up with this so be sure to check not only which stadium you're going to, but any other names it's locally known by. Every big city has a sports or other mass event at least once a week, so they are well-practised in signage, stewarding and crowd safety, extra and diverted transport, and policing. See individual city pages for accommodation, and other things to see and do there. See [[Events]] for the very largest, which embroil entire countries for days on end. These draw a travelling army of fans following their teams from city to city as the tournament progresses, so even if you don't plan to attend, you have to factor the event into your travel plans. ==Articles about watching sports== <div style="{{column-width|25em}}"> * [[Spectator sports in Japan]] * [[American football]] * [[Association football]] ** [[Association football in Europe]] * [[Australian rules football]] * [[Baseball]] ** [[Baseball in the United States]] * [[Basketball in North America]] * [[Boxing]] * [[Bullfighting]] * [[Cricket]] * [[Field hockey]] * [[Formula One]] * [[Golf]] * [[Handball in Europe]] * [[Horse racing]] * [[Ice hockey in Europe]] * [[Ice hockey in North America]] * [[Martial arts]] * [[Motorcycle speedway]] * [[Olympic Games]] * [[Rugby football]] * [[Tennis]] </div> ==Events with multiple sports== ===African Games === The African Games are held among the countries of Africa. * '''2027''': [[Cairo]], Egypt, 20 January–7 February. * '''2031''': [[Kinshasa]], DR Congo (dates TBA). ===Asian Games=== The [http://www.ocasia.org Asian Games]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} among the countries of Asia; the second largest multi-sports games after the Summer Olympics. Features some sports that are popular in Asia but not contested at the Olympics such as wushu (Chinese martial arts), kabbadi, sepak takraw and dragon boat racing, as well as some globally-popular non-Olympic sports such as tenpin bowling and squash. The Asian Games also have added several popular esports as official medal events. The Winter Asian Games are operated by the same body but feature only winter sports. Normally held in the year before the Winter Olympics. * '''2026''': 19 September–4 October, [[Nagoya]], [[Japan]] * '''2030''': [[Doha]], [[Qatar]] * '''2034''': [[Riyadh]], [[Saudi Arabia]] <!-- ===Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games=== --> ===Bolivarian Games=== Held by 6 countries of the Andean region of South Smerican, andvother invited nations. * '''2025''': November 23 to December 7 in [[Ayacucho]] and [[Lima]], [[Peru]] ===Central American Games === The Central American Games, only involving the seven nations of [[Central America]]. * '''2025''': 15–31 October, [[Guatemala City]], Guatemala ===Central America and Caribbean Games === The [https://inside.fei.org/fei/games/cont-reg-games/central-american-caribbean Central America and Caribbean Games] — the second oldest international multi-sport games. * '''2026''': 24 July — 8 August, [[Santo Domingo]], [[Dominican Republic]] ===Commonwealth Games=== The [https://www.commonwealthsport.com Commonwealth Games] among the countries of the [[British Empire#Commonwealth countries|Commonwealth of Nations]]; the fourth-largest multi-sports games. Unlike other multi-sport events, para-sports events are held as part of the main games with the able-bodied sports events. Features some non-Olympic sports that are popular in the Commonwealth such as lawn bowls, squash and netball. [[England]], [[Scotland]], [[Wales]] and [[Northern Ireland]] send separate teams to the Commonwealth Games, in contrast to the Olympics where they send a unified [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]] team. The next games in 2026 had been scheduled for the Australian state of Victoria, but the state government pulled out in July 2023, citing financial concerns. [[Glasgow]], Scotland was announced as the new host in September 2024; the 2026 games will be considerably scaled down from past editions, with only 10 sports and no athletes' village. === Deaflympics=== The [https://www.deaflympics.com Deaflympics] is an IOC-sanctioned event for athletes with hearing impairments. Although the sports are largely the same as the Olympics, modifications are made to not rely on sounds such as starter's guns, spoken commands or referee whistles. Separate summer and winter games are held. * '''2025 Summer Deaflympics''': 15–26 November in [[Tokyo]], Japan ===European Games=== The [http://www.european-games.org/ European Games] among [[Europe]]an countries. The newest continental-level multi-sport event, with its first edition in 2015. Also in the year before the Summer Olympics. * '''2027''' in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]; dates TBA ===Gay Games=== The [https://www.gaygames.org Gay Games] attract mostly LGBT athletes, though are open to all. * '''2026''': 27 June to 4 July [[Valencia]], [[Spain]] * '''2030''': Host to be announced in November 2025 ===Jeux de la Francophonie=== [https://www.jeux.francophonie.org Jeux de la Francophonie] among the countries of La Francophonie. The Canadian provinces of [[Quebec]] and [[New Brunswick]] send separate teams from the Canadian team, and the Belgian team is restricted to sending Francophone athletes. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. *'''2027''': July 23 to August 1, [[Yerevan]], Armenia ===National Games of China=== The National Games of China a multi-sport competition between [[China]]'s [[Chinese provinces and regions|provincial level units]], including [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], as well as teams representing the Chinese military and various Chinese industry groups. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. The standards of the diving and table tennis competitions in particular are regarded by most to be even higher than the Olympics. * '''2025''': [[Guangdong]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] <!-- ===Lusofonia Games=== The [http://www.acolop.org/ Lusofonia Games] among the world's Portuguese-speaking countries. Last held in 2014. ===Mediterranean Games=== --> === Maccabiah Games=== The [https://www.maccabiah.com/en/ Maccabiah Games] for Jewish athletes from 85 nations, and Israelis regardless of ethnicity or religion, are the third-largest multi-sports event by number of competitors after the Summer Olympics and Asian Games. Always held in Israel. * '''2025''': July, Israel ===Olympic Games=== {{main|Olympic Games}} * [[Milan–Cortina 2026|'''2026''': Winter Olympics]], 6 – 22 Feb, [[Milan]] and [[Cortina d'Ampezzo|Cortina]], [[Italy]] * [[Los Angeles 2028|'''2028''': Summer Olympics]], 21 Jul - 6 Aug, [[Los Angeles]], [[United States of America|USA]], with softball and canoe slalom to be held in [[Oklahoma City]] * [[French Alps 2030|'''2030''': Winter Olympics]], 1 - 17 Feb, multiple locations in the [[French Alps]], plus [[Nice]], [[France]] and [[Turin]], [[Italy]] * [[Brisbane 2032|'''2032''': Summer Olympics]], 23 Jul - 8 Aug, [[Brisbane]], [[Australia]] * [[Salt Lake City–Utah 2034|'''2034''': Winter Olympics]], 10 - 26 Feb, [[Salt Lake City]], [[United States of America|USA]], with other venues scattered around the state of [[Utah]] ===Pacific Games=== * The [http://websites.sportstg.com/assoc_page.cgi?c=2-2642-0-0-0&sID=24021 Pacific Games] among the countries of [[Oceania]] except Australia and New Zealand. * '''2027''': Pīraʻe, [[Tahiti]] ===Pan American Games=== The [http://www.panamsports.org Pan American Games] among the countries of the Americas. * '''2027''': 16 July — 1 August in [[Lima]], Peru ===South American Games=== A regional multi-sport event held between 15 nations from South America * '''2026''': 12 – 26 September, [[Rosario]] and Rafaela, Argentina ===Southeast Asian Games=== The Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), held every two years in odd-numbered years, among the countries of [[Southeast Asia]]. Features some sports that are only popular in Southeast Asia such as sepak takraw and silat. * '''2025''': 7–19 December, [[Bangkok]], Thailand * '''2027''': [[Kuala Lumpur]], Malaysia * '''2029''': Singapore * '''2031''': Laos * '''2033''': Philippines === Special Olympics=== The [https://www.specialolympics.org Special Olympics] are IOC-sanctioned events for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities. ==== Special Olympics World Summer Games ==== * '''2027''': Dates TBA, [[Perth]], [[Australia]] * '''2031''': Dates TBA, [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] ==== Special Olympics World Winter Games ==== * '''2025''': Dates TBA, [[Turin]] and other venues in the [[Piedmont]] region, [[Italy]] * '''2029''': Dates TBA, [[Chur]] and other venues in the [[Graubünden]] canton, [[Switzerland]] <!-- ===Student Games=== --> ===World Games=== Held every four years in the year after the summer Olympic Games. No events overlap with any contested in the Olympics. Many of the sports are not part of the Olympic program at all; the World Games also feature many non-Olympic disciplines or events within Olympic sports. The events are organized by the International World Games Association, which is recognized by the IOC. * '''2025''': 7–17 July, [[Chengdu]], China * '''2029''': 19–29 July, [[Karlsruhe]], Germany ==Events for a single sport== ===American football=== {{main|American football}} ==== National Football League ==== * '''Super Bowl LX''' – 8 February 2026 at Levi's Stadium in [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]], [[California]] (home to the San Francisco 49ers). * '''Super Bowl LXI''' – 14 February 2027 at SoFi Stadium in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Inglewood]], California (home to the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams). * '''Super Bowl LXII''' – Date TBA in February 2028 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in [[Atlanta/Downtown|downtown]] [[Atlanta]], Georgia (home to the Atlanta Falcons). =====NFL International Series===== At least five regular season games, with three in [[London]] (England) and at least two in other countries. The NFL has contracts with two London venues, namely Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The nominal home teams for the 2025 games have been announced (the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley, the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets at Spurs, the Indianapolis Colts in Berlin, the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin). The date for the Dublin game has been announced; other dates are expected to be announced in spring 2025.<!--Following standard US usage, the second team listed is the designated "home" team.--> ======NFL games in Mexico====== The NFL first held a regular season game in Mexico in 2005. Despite good attendance, the league did not return until the 2016 season, the first of what was meant to be a three-year deal to hold one game each season in that country. With both the 2016 and 2017 games selling out, the deal was extended through the 2021 season with an eye to possibly play more than one game per season in future years. All Mexico games thus far have been held in Estadio Azteca in [[Mexico City]]. The most recent Mexico game was in 2022. With Estadio Azteca being renovated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there will be no Mexico games until at least the 2026 season. ======NFL games in Germany====== In February 2022, the NFL announced a four-year agreement to expand the NFL International Series in Germany. The games were originally to be split between the Allianz Arena in Munich and Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt. The first game was held in the 2022 season. With the Mexico game being put on hold due to stadium renovations, there were two Germany games in 2023, both in Frankfurt. The 2024 game was held in Munich with the Carolina Panthers "hosting" and defeating the New York Giants. Berlin is joining the list of Germany hosts, with Olympiastadion set to host its first game at a so-far-undetermined date in 2025. ======NFL games in Brazil====== The NFL announced in November 2023 it would extend its International Series to Brazil. The first game in that country was held on September 6, 2024, with the Philadelphia Eagles "hosting" and defeating the Green Bay Packers at Arena Corinthians in [[São Paulo]]. Another Brazil game will be held on September 5, 2025, again at Arena Corinthians, with the Los Angeles Chargers as "host". ======NFL games in Spain====== Shortly after announcing the expansion to Brazil, the NFL extended the series to Spain. The first game in Spain will be held in 2025 at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in [[Madrid]] with the Miami Dolphins as "host". ======NFL games in Ireland====== The NFL has also extended the series to Ireland, with the first game being "hosted" by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 at Croke Park in [[Dublin]]. ======NFL games in Australia====== In 2026, the NFL expands its "International Series" to Australia, with the first game of the regular season being played at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground with the Los Angeles Rams "hosting". ==== US college football ==== * '''College Football Playoff National Championship''' ** 2026: Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], [[Florida]] (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 19 ** 2027: Allegiant Stadium in [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|Paradise]], [[Nevada]] (home of the Las Vegas Raiders); January 25 ** 2028: Caesars Superdome in [[New Orleans]], [[Louisiana]] (home of the New Orleans Saints); January 24 ** 2029: Raymond James Stadium in [[Tampa]], [[Florida]] (home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers); January 22 ** 2030: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 21 Each of these games is the championship for the previous calendar year. The bulk of the American football season takes place in the northern hemisphere fall/autumn. ====European League of Football==== * '''ELF Championship Game''' – 2025 edition at Neckarstadion (aka MHPArena) in [[Stuttgart]], Germany at a date in September to be determined ====German Football League==== * [http://www.germanbowl.de/ German Bowl] – 2025 host TBA ===Australian rules football=== {{main|Australian rules football}} ====Australian Football League==== * '''2025 AFL Grand Final''' at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground – 27 September ===Badminton=== Badminton is generally most popular in Asia, and Asian countries generally dominate the international tournaments; Denmark is the only non-Asian country to be considered a badminton powerhouse. Although badminton is popularly regarded as a backyard sport in the United States and often played outdoors recreationally, professional badminton is almost always played indoors. The '''[https://bwfworldtour.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour]''' is the premier professional tournament circuit, and is divided into six tiers. The top tier is occupied by a single tournament: the season-concluding '''[https://bwfworldtourfinals.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour Finals]''' in December every year. This is planned to be held in [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] until at least 2026. All BWF World Tour tournaments feature both men's and women's tournaments, as well as a mixed doubles tournament. The next tier is the BWF World Tour Super 1000, comprising the four most important tournaments on the circuit apart from the Finals, offering the largest number of ranking points and amount of prize money. As of 2024, they are as follows: *'''Malaysia Open''' — held in January every year at the Putra Indoor Stadium in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. *'''[https://www.allenglandbadminton.com All England Open]''' — the oldest international badminton tournament in the world, and the most prestigious tournament on the circuit. Held in March every year at the Arena Birmingham in [[Birmingham]]. *'''China Open''' — held in September every year. Since 2018, has been held at the Xincheng Gymnasium in [[Changzhou]]. *'''Indonesia Open''' — held in November every year at the Istora Gelora Bung Karno in [[Jakarta]]. Below that is the BWF World Tour 750, which offer less ranking points and prize money, but generally still attract most of the top players. *'''China Masters''' — held in November at the Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium in [[Shenzhen]]. *'''[https://denmarkopen.dk/ Denmark Open]''' — held in October at the Arena Fyn in [[Odense]]. *'''[https://www.yonexifb.com/uk/home French Open]''' — usually held in October, but the 2024 event was held in March at the Adidas Arena in [[Paris]] as a trial event for the Olympics. *'''[https://daihatsu-japan-open.com/ Japan Open]''' — held in August at the Yokohama Arena in [[Yokohama]]. *'''India Open''' — held in January at the K. D. Jadhav Indoor Hall in [[Delhi]]. *'''Singapore Open''' — held in late May or early June at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]]. The '''[https://bwfworldchampionships.bwfbadminton.com World Championships]''' are held every year except in Olympic years. Badminton has been an Olympic sport since 1992, with the Olympics generally being considered the premier tournament in the sport. There is also the '''Thomas Cup''' for men's national teams, and the '''Uber Cup''' for women's national teams, which mostly operate as multi-level leagues. ===Baseball=== {{seealso|Baseball|Baseball in the United States}} * World Baseball Classic * '''[https://www.seriedelcaribe.net/ Caribbean Series]''' (''Serie del Caribe'') is a championship tournament held in February each year. Champion teams from professional baseball leagues of various Caribbean and Latin American countries compete for the championship. * '''Little League World Series''' – Held over 10 days, ending on the last Sunday of August, in [[Williamsport|South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA]]. ===Basketball=== ====NBA==== {{seealso|Basketball in North America}} ====US college basketball==== The biggest event in US college (university) basketball is the NCAA Division I men's tournament, featuring 68 teams. The Division I women's tournament draws considerably less interest, but is still the biggest event in American women's college sports. The men's tournament begins on the Tuesday preceding the third Thursday in March (in terms of dates, no earlier than March 13 and no later than March 19) in [[Dayton|Dayton, Ohio]] with an eight-team round marketed as the First Four, featuring two games on Tuesday and two on Wednesday. The winners of these four games join the remaining 60 tournament teams for the first round, which starts on the third Thursday in March. The women's tournament expanded from 64 teams to 68 starting in 2022, with its own First Four; it starts the day after the men's tournament. The four-team final rounds of these tournaments are known as the Final Four. Future Final Four sites are: ;Men * 2026 – April 4 and 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in [[Indianapolis]] * 2027 – April 3 and 5 at Ford Field in [[Detroit]] * 2028 – April 1 and 3 at Allegiant Stadium just [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|west]] of the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Las Vegas Strip]] * 2029 – March 31 and April 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis * 2030 – April 6 and 8 at AT&T Stadium in [[Arlington (Texas)|Arlington, Texas]], between [[Dallas]] and [[Fort Worth]] ;Women * 2026 – April 3 and 5 at PHX Arena in [[Phoenix]] * 2027 – April 2 and 4 at Nationwide Arena in [[Columbus|Columbus, Ohio]] * 2028 – March 31 and April 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis * 2029 – March 30 and April 1 at the Alamodome in San Antonio * 2030 – April 5 and 7 at Moda Center in [[Portland (Oregon)|Portland, Oregon]] * 2031 – April 4 and 6 at American Airlines Center in Dallas ====EuroLeague==== The EuroLeague is basketball's equivalent to the UEFA Champions League in association football (soccer), featuring top club teams from throughout Europe (note that in sports, "Europe" includes several countries either partly or totally in Asia, most notably Russia, Turkey, and Israel). The season starts in October and ends with the '''EuroLeague Final Four''' in May. * 2026 – May 22 and 24 in either Athens or Belgrade (site TBA) ===Canadian football=== {{seealso|American football#Canadian Football League}} * '''112th Grey Cup''' at Princess Auto Stadium in [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]] (home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers); November 16, 2025 * '''113th Grey Cup''' at McMahon Stadium in [[Calgary/Northwest|northwest]] [[Calgary]], [[Alberta]] (home of the Calgary Stampeders); November 15, 2026 ===Cricket=== {{main|Cricket}} * '''[https://www.lords.org/lords/our-history/the-ashes The Ashes]''' — November 2025–January 2026 at the following venues in [[Australia]]: ** [[Perth]] Stadium, in the [[Perth/The Suburbs|northern suburb]] of Burswood — 21–25 November 2025 ** The Gabba, in the [[Brisbane]] suburb of Wooloongabba — 4–8 December 2025 ** [[Adelaide]] Oval, in the [[Adelaide/City and North Adelaide|parklands]] between the central business district and North Adelaide — 17–21 December 2025 ** [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground, in Yarra Park in the city's [[Melbourne/Inner east|inner east]] — 26–30 December 2025. The traditional Boxing Day Test at the MCG is one of the sport's most iconic events. ** [[Sydney]] Cricket Ground, in Moore Park in the [[Sydney/City East|inner eastern suburbs]] — 4—8 January 2026 * '''Cricket World Cup''' — October—November 2027, co-hosted by [[South Africa]], [[Zimbabwe]] and [[Namibia]]. ===Cycling=== Road bicycle racing is broadly divided into two race types: * '''Single-day races''' — Exactly as the name implies, these races are held on a single day at around the same time each year. Some have fixed courses; more have fixed starting and end points with courses varying slightly from year to year. The most prestigious races of this type are often called "classics", but the term is poorly defined. * '''Stage races''' — Held over more than one day, with one race each day known as a "stage" (though some races, notably the Grand Tours, will include one or two rest days). While there is an award ceremony at the end of each stage, the overall winner is determined by "general classification"—the cumulative time for the entire race. The most famous road racing events for bicycles in the world are the three stage races known as Grand Tours. They are raced in Italy, France, and Spain but commonly also include legs in other countries. These tours, each featuring 21 stages, involve only men's races, and are even more prestigious than the road cycling events at the Olympics. * '''[https://www.giroditalia.it Giro d'Italia]''' — around Italy, usually takes place in May. * '''[https://www.letour.fr/en/ Tour de France]''' — around France, usually takes place in July. The most prestigious of the three. * '''[https://www.lavuelta.es/en Vuelta a España]''' — around Spain, usually takes place in August. While countless single-day races are run, both throughout Europe and worldwide, the most famous are the five races known as "Monuments", all of which were first held between 1890 and 1915. * '''[[Milan]]–[[Sanremo|San Remo]]''' (Italian: ''Milano–Sanremo'') – The first major classic of the year, usually on the third Saturday of March on a course between the two named locations. It's considered "the sprinters' classic" because its mostly flat course favors that type of rider. * '''Tour of [[Flanders]]''' (Dutch: ''Ronde van Vlaanderen'') – Held in early April through [[Belgium]]'s Flanders region between [[Antwerp]] and [[Oudenaarde]]. The first of the "cobbled classics", with many key sections (including several short but very steep hills) paved in cobblestones. * '''[[Paris]]–[[Roubaix]]''' – Probably ''the'' most famous single-day race, it's known as the "Queen of the Classics" and ''l'Enfer du Nord'' ("The Hell of the North [of France]"). Held one week after the Tour of Flanders, it features even longer stretches of cobblestone roads, making it arguably the hardest single-day race on riders. * '''[[Liège]]–[[Bastogne]]–Liège''' – Held in late April in Belgium, this race is nearly as hard on riders as Paris–Roubaix, but for different reasons, namely a long course with numerous short but steep hills in the [[Ardennes]] region, as well as an uphill finish in Liège. * '''Giro di [[Lombardy|Lombardia]]''' (officially ''Il Lombardia'') – The year's final Monument, held in October over a course that varies from year to year, with only a few fixed locations, most famously the arduous climb to the Madonna del Ghisallo church in Magreglio near Lake Como. The race ends in either [[Bergamo]] or [[Como]]. Known as "the climbers' classic" from its many significant climbs. Cycling is also featured at the Summer Olympics in 4 disciplines; track cycling, road cycling, mountain biking and BMX. With the exception of the men's road cycling discipline, these are generally considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of cycling. <!-- ===Gaelic football=== --> ===Golf=== {{main|Golf}} The most important professional golf tournaments in the world are knowns as the '''majors''', offering the largest amounts of prize money and world ranking points. The men's and women's professional circuits are run separately, with a separate set of majors for each sex. The most important men's professional circuit is the U.S.-based PGA Tour, while the corresponding professional circuit for women is the LPGA Tour, also based in the U.S. The PGA and LPGA also sanction some tournaments outside the U.S., and some tournaments are co-sanctioned by multiple professional circuits. For instance, all the men's majors are co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour, the European Tour and the Japan Golf Tour. Golf was an Olympic sport 1900–1904, and has been one since 2016. The Olympic golf tournament is less prestigious than the majors and offers no prize money, and many of the top male golfers choose to skip it, but the top female golfers usually participate. ====Men's==== ;Major championships Three of the four men's major championships are held in the U.S. The only exception is The Open Championship, also known as the "British Open". Each tournament is played from Thursday through Sunday, barring weather-related delays, and has a fixed weekend on the calendar. Tickets for practice sessions during the days before the tournament starts are also sold. A golfer who wins all four majors in the same calendar year is said to have completed the '''Grand Slam''', which has yet to be achieved (Tiger Woods won all four consecutively, but spanning two calendar years starting from the 2000 U.S. Open to the 2001 Masters Tournament; at the time, the PGA Championship was the year's final major, instead of the second). * '''Masters Tournament''' (always held at Augusta National Golf Club in [[Augusta (Georgia)|Augusta]], [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]) – ends on the second Sunday in April. The next edition is set for 9–12 April 2026. * '''PGA Championship''' – ends on the third Sunday of May; next edition to be held 14–17 May 2026 at Aronimink Golf Club in the [[Philadelphia]] suburb of Newtown Square, [[Pennsylvania]]. ** Sites have been set through 2034, with the exception of 2033. * '''U.S. Open''' – ends on the third Sunday in June; next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in [[Southampton (New York)|Southampton]], New York (near the eastern end of [[Long Island]], about 85 miles/140 km from Midtown Manhattan). ** Sites have been set through 2042, as well as for most subsequent years through 2051. * '''The Open Championship''' – played during the week containing the third Friday in July; next edition to be held 17–20 July 2025 at Royal [[Portrush]] Golf Club in [[County Antrim]], [[Northern Ireland]] (about 60 mi/100 km from [[Belfast]] and 35 mi/60 km from [[Derry|Derry/Londonderry]]. The tournament returns to the historic Old Course at [[St Andrews]] every few years, and is of special significance when it does. ** The 2026 edition will be played at Royal Birkdale in [[Southport]] from 16–19 July. ** The 2027 edition will be held at the Old Course from 15–18 July. ;Other significant events * '''Ryder Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in odd-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2025 – 26–28 September at the Black Course of [[Bethpage]] State Park on [[Long Island]] (about 35 miles/56 km east of Midtown Manhattan) ** 2027 – 17-19 September at [[Adare]] Manor in [[County Limerick]], [[Ireland]] ** 2029 – Dates TBA in September at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota (a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]) *'''Presidents Cup''' (competition between a USA team and an "International" team of non-Europeans) – Held in even-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and a non-European country ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Medinah Country Club in [[Medinah]], [[Illinois]] (a northwest suburb of [[Chicago]]). ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia (a [[Melbourne/South-Eastern suburbs|southeastern suburb]] of [[Melbourne]]). ** 2030 – Dates TBA at Bellerive Country Club in Town and Country, [[Missouri]] (in the West County region of [[St. Louis County]], which borders on the city of [[St. Louis]]). ====Women's==== ;Major championships Three of the five women's major championships are held in the U.S. As with the men's major championships, all are held from Thursday through Sunday (barring weather delays). * '''Chevron Championship''' (held at The Club at Carlton Woods in [[The Woodlands]], Texas, about 30 mi/50 km north of [[Houston]]) – The next edition is expected to be 23–26 April 2026. * '''U.S. Women's Open''' – Next edition to be held 4–7 June 2026 at Riviera Country Club in the [[Los Angeles]] neighborhood of [[Pacific Palisades]]. ** Future sites have been set through 2036, and for several subsequent years through 2048. * '''Women's PGA Championship''' – Next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]. * '''The Evian Championship''' (always held at the Evian Resort Golf Club in [[Evian|Évian-les-Bains]], [[France]]) – Typically held in July, though the dates haven't been consistent from year to year. The next edition will be from 10–13 July 2025. * '''Women's Open Championship''' (aka "Women's British Open") – From 2025, three weeks after the Evian Championship, allowing the tour to go on a European swing. The 2025 edition will be at Royal [[Porthcawl]] Golf Club in Wales from 31 July–3 August. ;Other significant events * '''Solheim Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in even-numbered years (from 2024) in August or September; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, [[Netherlands]] (just south of [['s-Hertogenbosch|Den Bosch]]) ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Valhalla Golf Club in [[Louisville|Louisville, Kentucky]] (slightly less than 20 mi/32 km east of downtown) * '''International Crown''' (team competition involving seven national teams, plus a "World" team made up of players not from one of the preceding seven countries) – From 2023, held in odd-numbered years in October ** 2025 – 23–26 October at New Korea Country Club in [[Goyang]], [[South Korea]] ===Handball=== {{see also|Handball in Europe}} Olympic or team Handball is a fast paced team sport that is mostly played indoors and enjoys considerable popularity in most of continental Europe. The world cup as well as the European championship are major events, second only to soccer. The best national leagues (found in Germany, France and the Nordic countries) battle out a club champion every year. There is also the [http://www.ehfcl.com EHF Champions League] which battles out Europe's top club team every year. === Ice hockey === {{seealso|Ice hockey in North America|Ice hockey in Europe}} ==== Men's ==== ;IIHF Men's World Championship * 2026: 15–31 May, [[Zurich|Zürich]] and [[Fribourg]], [[Switzerland]] * 2027: 14–30 May, [[Düsseldorf]] and [[Mannheim]], [[Germany]] * 2028: 12–28 May, [[Paris]] and [[Lyon]], [[France]] ==== Women's ==== ;IIHF Women's World Championship Since 2022, the top level of the Women's World Championships has been held annually, even in Winter Olympic years. From 1997–2021, the top level was an annual affair, but Winter Olympic years were skipped. * 2026: Host, dates, and sites TBA ===Motor racing=== {{seealso|Motor sport}} ====[[Formula One]]==== See the dedicated article. ====NASCAR==== A U.S. stock car racing organization, and the country's most popular form of motorsport. The term "stock car" is a historic reference; when NASCAR first organized races in the years immediately after World War II, the cars were in fact "stock"—exactly as purchased from dealers, with minimal safety-related changes. Over time, the cars changed to the point that they are only vaguely similar in external appearance to current street vehicles, with much more powerful engines and far more safety equipment. NASCAR now operates three national touring series: * Cup Series, the top series * Xfinity Series, the second level * Craftsman Truck Series, the third level, which races pickup trucks instead of cars; usually called simply the "Truck Series" Most races are held on oval tracks. For many years, no more than one or two Cup Series races were held on road courses, but since 2021 that number has gone up to six. Five Xfinity Series races and three Truck Series are also held on road courses. Before COVID-19, the Truck Series held one race in Canada, but border restrictions led to that date being transferred south of the border, and NASCAR has yet to return any of its U.S. national series to Canada (although it runs a separate Canadian series). The sport used to be centered in the Southeastern U.S., but beginning in the 1990s it expanded to become a national spectacle. A typical NASCAR event spans a long weekend, with two or even all three series holding races at one site. Unlike most sports, NASCAR's biggest event is the ''first'' race of the season: * '''Daytona 500''', held on the day before the Presidents Day holiday (which falls on the third Monday of February) at Daytona International Speedway in [[Daytona Beach]], [[Florida]] ====IndyCar==== A U.S.-based open-wheel racing series. It was established in its current form in 2008, when the IndyCar Series (launched in 1996) merged with the former Champcars series. The merger is a story in itself—as late as the early 1990s, open-wheel racing, governed by a body known as CART (which later became Champcars), was the most popular form of motorsport in the U.S. However, in 1994, the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the series' marquee event, the Indianapolis 500, had a bitter falling-out with CART, leading to the creation of the competing IndyCar series (which took the Indy 500 with it). The feud led many former open-wheel fans to abandon the sport, often for NASCAR. By the time the feud ended, attendance and sponsorship money for the sport were a fraction of what they had been only 15 years earlier, and only in the late 2010s had it begun to recover some of its original prominence. All of the series' races are held in the U.S. except for one on a street course in [[Toronto]]. The tracks are a mixture of ovals, road courses, and street circuits. The series' marquee event, as mentioned above, is: * '''Indianapolis 500''', held the day before the U.S. holiday of Memorial Day (which falls on the last Monday of May) at the [[Indianapolis]] Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana (a community completely surrounded by the city of Indianapolis) ==== Motorcycle speedway ==== Motorcycle speedway is a sport where lightweight motorcycles race each other on an oval-shaped track. It is most popular in [[Poland]] but also has a major presence in [[Australia]], [[Britain]], and [[Sweden]]. ===== Important events ===== *'''Speedway Grand Prix''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's late spring, summer, and early fall. *'''Speedway of Nations''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's summer (usually June or July). ===Rugby=== {{main|Rugby football}} ====Rugby union==== * 2025 '''Rugby Championship''', various locations in [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], and [[South Africa]]. Normally held August–October, with an abbreviated and time-shifted version held in years of the men's Rugby World Cup. * 2025: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to Australia, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in England, 22 August–27 September *** Note that World Rugby, the governing body for union, uses the "Rugby World Cup" name for both its men's and women's championship events. * 2026 '''Six Nations Championship''', February–March: ** [[Cardiff]], Principality Stadium (Millennium Stadium) ** [[Dublin]], Aviva Stadium ** [[Edinburgh]], Scottish Gas Murrayfield ** [[London]], Twickenham Stadium ** [[Rome]], Stadio Olimpico ** [[Saint-Denis (Île-de-France)|Saint-Denis]] ([[Paris]]), Stade de France * 2027 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2029: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to New Zealand, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2031 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in the United States, dates TBA * 2033: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to South Africa, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in the United States, dates TBA ====Rugby sevens==== * '''World Rugby Sevens Series''' and '''World Rugby Women's Sevens Series''': A series of 8 tournaments for national men's and women's sevens teams held at various locations around the world. In the current format, all events see both sexes compete on the same weekend. Marketed as the '''HSBC SVNS''' (with HSBC being the main corporate sponsor). World Rugby has scrapped the former Rugby World Cup Sevens, making the annual SVNS series its effective successor. ** '''[[Dubai]] Sevens''' – The traditional season opener, held on the weekend including the first Saturday in December at a stadium known as The Sevens. ** '''South Africa Sevens''' – Held on the weekend after the Dubai Sevens at [[Cape Town]] Stadium. ** '''Australian Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of January at [[Perth]] Rectangular Stadium (commercially HBF Park). ** '''Canada Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of February at BC Place in [[Vancouver/Yaletown-False Creek|downtown]] [[Vancouver]]. ** '''USA Sevens''' – Held the weekend after the Canada Sevens at Dignity Health Sports Park in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Carson|Carson, California]]. ** '''[[Hong Kong]] Sevens''' – The most famous men's event. Held in early April at Hong Kong Stadium in So Kon Po, in the [[Hong Kong/Eastern District|east]] of Hong Kong Island. ** '''[[Singapore]] Sevens''' – Held in early May at the National Stadium in Kallang, a district just to the [[Singapore/East Coast|northeast]] of the Downtown Core. ** '''[[Madrid]] Sevens''' – The final event, held at Estadio Metropolitano in the city's [[Madrid/Northern Suburbs|northern]] San Blas district. ====Rugby league==== =====National Rugby League===== *'''NRL Grand Final''' – The first or second Saturday of October at the Sydney Cricket Ground, just [[Sydney/Eastern Suburbs|east of the city centre]]. *'''State of Origin''' series – three matches in all in May–July. One match is normally held in the capital city of each state represented: Stadium Australia (aka Accor Stadium) in the [[Sydney/Sydney Olympic Park|Sydney Olympic Park]], and Lang Park (aka Suncorp Stadium) in [[Brisbane]]. The third game rotates between several cities outside New South Wales and Queensland: [[Adelaide]] (Adelaide Oval), [[Melbourne]] (Melbourne Cricket Ground), and [[Perth]] (Perth Stadium, aka Optus Stadium). =====Super League===== *'''Super League Grand Final''' – =====International===== *'''2026 Rugby League World Cup''' - [[France]] ===Soccer=== {{seealso|Association football|Association football in Europe}} ====Men's==== * '''2025''' FIFA U-17 World Cup, 3–27 November in [[Qatar]]. This becomes an annual event starting in 2025, with Qatar confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2025''' FIFA U-20 World Cup, 27 September–19 October in several cities in [[Chile]] (final most likely in [[Santiago]]) * '''2026''' FIFA World Cup in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], and [[Mexico]]; 11 June–19 July (final in [[East Rutherford]], New Jersey, near New York City) ====Women's==== * '''2025''' [https://www.fifa.com/u17womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, 17 October–8 November in [[Morocco]]. Starting in 2025, this becomes an annual event, with Morocco confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2026''' [https://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup],{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} 5–27 September in [[Poland]] * '''2027''' FIFA Women's World Cup in [[Brazil]], 24 June–25 July ===Table tennis=== [[China]] has been the world's dominant force in table tennis since at least the 1980s, so it comes as no surprise that the '''China Table Tennis Super League''' (CTTSL) is one of the best tournaments in the world, featuring not only the best players from all over China, but several top international players as well. The main international professional circuit is known as '''[https://worldtabletennis.com/ World Table Tennis]''' (WTT), of which the top level is known as the '''WTT Series'''. The most important WTT Series tournaments, offering the most world ranking points and prize money, are known as the '''Grand Smashes''', of which there are three, as of 2024: *'''[https://www.singaporesmash.com Singapore Smash]''' — held in March at the Singapore Sports Hub in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]] *'''[https://www.saudismash.com Saudi Smash]''' — held in May at King Abdullah Sports City in [[Jeddah]] *'''China Smash''' — held in late September and early October at Shougang Park in [[Beijing]] The season-concluding tournament of the WTT Series is the '''WTT Finals''', featuring the top 16 singles players and top 8 doubles pairs of each sex. The 2024 WTT Finals will be held from 20-24 November at the [[Kitakyushu]] General Gymnasium. Table tennis is also contested at the Summer Olympics, which is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport. The table tennis event at the Olympics consists of men's and women's singles, men's and women's teams, and a mixed doubles event. There is also the annual '''World Table Tennis Championships''', which is contested between individuals and doubles pairs in odd years, and between national teams in even years. ===Tennis=== ''See also [[Tennis]].'' Tennis has events throughout the calendar year. The top-level men's tour is the ATP Tour, with the WTA Tour as the women's counterpart. The men's and women's tours come together for the four '''Grand Slam''' events and a few other select tournaments throughout the year. The only players to have ever completed the Grand Slam are Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 & 1969) in the men's event, and Maureen Connolly (1953), Margaret Court (1970) and Steffi Graf (1988) in the women's event. In addition to these, the '''[https://www.daviscup.com/ Davis Cup]''' for men and '''[https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/ Billie Jean King Cup]''' (known as the Fed Cup until 2020) for women are the top events for national teams; these operate as multi-level leagues. The top levels (now known as the "Finals" in both events) were traditionally conducted as knockout tournaments, but now use a format similar to that of the FIFA World Cup, with all qualifying nations meeting at a single site for a group stage followed by a knockout stage. A player who wins all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year is said to have completed a '''golden slam''', and the only able-bodied player to have done so to date was Germany's Steffi Graf in 1988. (The doubles partnership of American identical twins Bob and Mike Bryan, aka the Bryan Brothers, won all of the required events consecutively, but their streak started with the 2012 Olympics, thus spanning two calendar years. Two wheelchair tennis players have completed the calendar-year golden slam, with their version replacing the able-bodied Olympics with the Paralympic Games.) At the professional level, tennis court surfaces can be divided into three types: grass, clay and hard. Each of these surfaces has a different bounce profile for the ball, thus favouring different playing styles. While all professional tennis players are competent on all three surfaces, some players are known to excel on particular surfaces; for instance, Rafael Nadal was known for his excellence on clay courts during his prime, while Roger Federer was well-known for his prowess on grass courts. Most ATP and WTA events feature both singles and doubles tournaments, with Grand Slams and the Olympics also featuring a mixed doubles tournament. ====Grand Slam events==== All four of these events are held over two weeks (15 days of play at all events except Wimbledon, still at 14). They are considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of tennis, and are even more prestigious than the Olympics. * '''[https://ausopen.com/ Australian Open]''': Ends on the last Sunday in January at [[Melbourne]] Park just outside the city centre. Frequently suffers from hot and humid weather in the southern summer, although this has been alleviated by retractable roofs on the three main courts. The final is held in the Rod Laver Arena, which is named after Rod Laver, the only player to have completed a grand slam twice, and the last man to achieve the feat when he did so in 1969. Has been played on hard courts since 1988. * '''[https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/ French Open]''' (also known as ''Roland Garros''): Held in late May and early June at ''Stade Roland Garros'' in the Bois de Boulogne in the [[Paris/16th arrondissement|16th arondissement]] of [[Paris]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event still held on clay courts. * '''[https://www.wimbledon.com/ Wimbledon]''': Begins on the first Monday in July and ends on the second Sunday following at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in the [[London/Wimbledon|Wimbledon]] neighbourhood of southwest [[London]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event held on grass courts, requiring all players to dress only in white (though women are now allowed to wear colored underwear to better hide menstruation), and many other traditions. The oldest and most prestigious of the Grand Slams. * '''[https://www.usopen.org/ US Open]''': Begins in August, on the Sunday that precedes the weekend of the US holiday of Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September. Ends on the Sunday following Labor Day. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in the northern part of the [[New York City]] borough of [[Queens]]. Has been played on hard courts since 1978. ====Season-ending championships==== Both the ATP and WTA have season-ending events for the very top players, with eight players qualifying for the finals in singles and eight teams in doubles. The competitors are divided into two groups of four, each playing a round-robin within the group. The top two finishers in each group advance to the semifinals, with the winners of each semifinal contesting the final. * '''[https://www.nittoatpfinals.com/en ATP Finals]''': Mid-November at Pala Alpitour (aka Palasport Olimpico) in [[Turin]], Italy. * '''[https://www.wtatennis.com/wta-finals WTA Finals]''': Late October–early November in [[Riyadh]], Saudi Arabia. In the mid-2010s, the WTA Tour launched the '''WTA Elite Trophy''', a second season-ending event for players immediately below those who qualify for the WTA Finals. It was suspended because Covid-19 from 2020 to 2020.. ====Other top-tier events==== Both the ATP and WTA have a multi-level hierarchy of events, with the Grand Slams at the top, followed by the season-ending championships and then the events shown here (with other levels below these in both cases). The two tours have differing terminology for this level: * ATP: Nine events known as the "ATP Tour Masters 1000". All top players are required to enter these events (barring injury or other misfortune), with the exception of the Monte-Carlo Masters. * WTA: The "WTA 1000" was established in 2021 by the merger of the former "Premier Mandatory" and "Premier 5" events. Since 2024, there have been ten WTA 1000 tournaments, all of which are mandatory. * Olympics: The tennis event at the Olympics is less prestigious than the Grand Slams, and many top players choose to skip it, while those who compete often do not take it seriously and lose to little-known lower-ranked opponents. Moreover, the Olympics typically falls in the middle of the U.S. hard court season, meaning that players miss important tournaments and lose valuable ranking points in their quest to qualify for the season-ending championships should they choose to participate. That said, there is a special prestige attached to winning all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in a single calendar year, known as a golden slam. Unlike in the professional circuits, doubles pairs at the Olympics must be from the same country. With that in mind, here are the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events: * '''[[Qatar]] Ladies Open''': Mid-February at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in [[Doha]]. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Dubai]] Tennis Championships''': Late February at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour also plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''Indian Wells Masters''' (men) and '''Indian Wells Open''' (women): Early March in [[Indian Wells]], California (near Palm Springs). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Miami Open''': Late March–early April at Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], Florida (north of the city of Miami). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Monte-Carlo Masters''': Mid-April at Monte Carlo Country Club in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, next to Monaco. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Madrid]] Open''': Mid-May at Caja Mágica in Madrid. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Italian Open''': Week following the Madrid Open at Foro Italico in Rome. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Canadian Open''': Early August at Stade IGA in Montreal and Sobeys Stadium (formerly Aviva Centre) in Toronto. In odd-numbered years, the men play in Montreal and the women in Toronto, and vice versa in even-numbered years. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Cincinnati Masters''' (men) and '''Cincinnati Open''' (women): Week after the Canadian Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in [[Mason (Ohio)|Mason, Ohio]], northeast of [[Cincinnati]]. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Wuhan]] Open''': Last week of September at Optics Valley International Tennis Center. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''China Open''': Start of October, immediately following the Wuhan Open, at the National Tennis Center in [[Beijing]]. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''[[Shanghai]] Masters''': Week after the China Open at Qi Zhong Stadium in the southwest of the city. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Paris]] Masters''': Late October–early November at AccorHotels Arena in the [[Paris/12th arrondissement|12th arrondissement]]. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' The Grand Slams, tour finals and ATP Masters 1000/WTA 1000 tournaments are collectively known as the '''Big Titles'''. Serbia's Novak Djokovic is the only singles player of either sex to have won all the Big Titles in the course of his career, and was said to have "completed the game of tennis" by adding the Olympic gold medal to those in 2024. Three other men's players, all retired, have won all of the Big Titles in doubles—Canadian Daniel Nestor as an individual, and the aforementioned Bryan Brothers as a team. All also have Olympic gold medals in doubles. Djokovic and the Bryans have also been on national teams that won the Davis Cup. ==Stay safe== Take precautions typical for [[Stay safe#Mass gatherings|large crowds]] and major events, with risk factors such as [[pickpocketing]], [[infectious diseases]], drunk brawls and stampedes. '''Hooliganism''' is organized violence associated with sport fandom, in particular prevalent in [[association football in Europe|men's football in Europe]]. The risk of hooliganism differs between countries and teams, and might be difficult to assess from a neutral source. {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Sports}} 0lwgfptzhtwvdwh83alcv916u676zkk 5090958 5090957 2025-07-10T16:42:20Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Bolivarian Games */ 5090958 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|MalmöFF Fans banner.jpg|caption=Fans of Malmö FF, a Swedish football team}} '''Spectator sports''' are those where the players are greatly outnumbered by their audience, often a thousandfold and sometimes a millionfold for the biggest events. These usually involve travel, often long-distance, so there is a distinct experience of sports travel for those crowds, covered on this page. See [[Sports]] for those you participate in yourself, watched (if at all) by a few family members or ex-players. See [[Activities]] for the broader sphere of mostly non-competitive pastimes such as bird-watching. == Understand == [[File:Olympic Torch 2010.jpg | thumb | 300px | Lighting the Olympic flame from the sun]] Spectator sports have a long history: in the western tradition this is exemplified by the ancient Olympic Games. But mass travelling audiences only emerged in the 19th century, with the development of leisure time, disposable income, and public transport. Indeed the Olympics are a 19th-century reinvention, with the ancient event lapsing around 400 AD and the modern version launching in Athens in 1896. In the 19th and 20th centuries, three tribes emerged: an elite of professional players, an audience watching them direct or on TV or internet, and the "grassroots" playing at amateur or junior level. Of course there is overlap, but the stark feature today is how different those worlds have become; certainly their travel experiences could not be more different. The divergence caused great soul-searching in sports associations, and sometimes acrimonious splits. It's no spoiler to say that big money and big business won, and spectator sports are designed to extract their followers' cash not only by gate receipts, but by advertising and sponsorship, by merchandising, by broadcasting rights, and by gambling. Spectator sports are also a matter of national prestige and policy: countries market themselves as sports destination, and by "sports-washing" deflect attention from their unattractive regimes. The live audience for big events is nowadays greatly outnumbered by TV and internet viewers, and developments in virtual reality promise to take this further. But for the time being, the crowd is essential to the event. They descend in partisan masses upon the host city, throng the pubs and transport hubs, and book up accommodation. Their chants and slogans, team regalia, cheers and boos, all create an intense atmosphere. Alcohol-fuelled violence has too often been a by-product. Early spectators simply milled around the playing area, craning to see the action. It's still like that in golf, where crowds follow their favourite player from hole to hole, and in on-road races for cycling and motor sports where the biggest audience is close to the finish line but people find vantage points all along the way. Larger crowds made this unmanageable for most sports, so embankments then stadiums were built: modern examples are huge and architecturally exciting. Stadiums may be multi-purpose or dedicated to one sport, and a big division is between those for ball games, and those incorporating a running track, which makes them suitable for Olympics but distances the crowd. They may be "borrowed" for events, for instance international rugby matches may use a soccer stadium simply for extra capacity. The upkeep of a stadium (even a small one) is usually part-financed by a sponsorship deal, so they change their names for the length of the deal, sometimes just for a specific event. Signage on streets and public transport can't keep up with this so be sure to check not only which stadium you're going to, but any other names it's locally known by. Every big city has a sports or other mass event at least once a week, so they are well-practised in signage, stewarding and crowd safety, extra and diverted transport, and policing. See individual city pages for accommodation, and other things to see and do there. See [[Events]] for the very largest, which embroil entire countries for days on end. These draw a travelling army of fans following their teams from city to city as the tournament progresses, so even if you don't plan to attend, you have to factor the event into your travel plans. ==Articles about watching sports== <div style="{{column-width|25em}}"> * [[Spectator sports in Japan]] * [[American football]] * [[Association football]] ** [[Association football in Europe]] * [[Australian rules football]] * [[Baseball]] ** [[Baseball in the United States]] * [[Basketball in North America]] * [[Boxing]] * [[Bullfighting]] * [[Cricket]] * [[Field hockey]] * [[Formula One]] * [[Golf]] * [[Handball in Europe]] * [[Horse racing]] * [[Ice hockey in Europe]] * [[Ice hockey in North America]] * [[Martial arts]] * [[Motorcycle speedway]] * [[Olympic Games]] * [[Rugby football]] * [[Tennis]] </div> ==Events with multiple sports== ===African Games === The African Games are held among the countries of Africa. * '''2027''': [[Cairo]], Egypt, 20 January–7 February. * '''2031''': [[Kinshasa]], DR Congo (dates TBA). ===Asian Games=== The [http://www.ocasia.org Asian Games]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} among the countries of Asia; the second largest multi-sports games after the Summer Olympics. Features some sports that are popular in Asia but not contested at the Olympics such as wushu (Chinese martial arts), kabbadi, sepak takraw and dragon boat racing, as well as some globally-popular non-Olympic sports such as tenpin bowling and squash. The Asian Games also have added several popular esports as official medal events. The Winter Asian Games are operated by the same body but feature only winter sports. Normally held in the year before the Winter Olympics. * '''2026''': 19 September–4 October, [[Nagoya]], [[Japan]] * '''2030''': [[Doha]], [[Qatar]] * '''2034''': [[Riyadh]], [[Saudi Arabia]] <!-- ===Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games=== --> ===Bolivarian Games=== Held by 6 countries of the Andean region of South America, and other invited nations. * '''2025''': November 23 to December 7 in [[Ayacucho]] and [[Lima]], [[Peru]] ===Central American Games === The Central American Games, only involving the seven nations of [[Central America]]. * '''2025''': 15–31 October, [[Guatemala City]], Guatemala ===Central America and Caribbean Games === The [https://inside.fei.org/fei/games/cont-reg-games/central-american-caribbean Central America and Caribbean Games] — the second oldest international multi-sport games. * '''2026''': 24 July — 8 August, [[Santo Domingo]], [[Dominican Republic]] ===Commonwealth Games=== The [https://www.commonwealthsport.com Commonwealth Games] among the countries of the [[British Empire#Commonwealth countries|Commonwealth of Nations]]; the fourth-largest multi-sports games. Unlike other multi-sport events, para-sports events are held as part of the main games with the able-bodied sports events. Features some non-Olympic sports that are popular in the Commonwealth such as lawn bowls, squash and netball. [[England]], [[Scotland]], [[Wales]] and [[Northern Ireland]] send separate teams to the Commonwealth Games, in contrast to the Olympics where they send a unified [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]] team. The next games in 2026 had been scheduled for the Australian state of Victoria, but the state government pulled out in July 2023, citing financial concerns. [[Glasgow]], Scotland was announced as the new host in September 2024; the 2026 games will be considerably scaled down from past editions, with only 10 sports and no athletes' village. === Deaflympics=== The [https://www.deaflympics.com Deaflympics] is an IOC-sanctioned event for athletes with hearing impairments. Although the sports are largely the same as the Olympics, modifications are made to not rely on sounds such as starter's guns, spoken commands or referee whistles. Separate summer and winter games are held. * '''2025 Summer Deaflympics''': 15–26 November in [[Tokyo]], Japan ===European Games=== The [http://www.european-games.org/ European Games] among [[Europe]]an countries. The newest continental-level multi-sport event, with its first edition in 2015. Also in the year before the Summer Olympics. * '''2027''' in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]; dates TBA ===Gay Games=== The [https://www.gaygames.org Gay Games] attract mostly LGBT athletes, though are open to all. * '''2026''': 27 June to 4 July [[Valencia]], [[Spain]] * '''2030''': Host to be announced in November 2025 ===Jeux de la Francophonie=== [https://www.jeux.francophonie.org Jeux de la Francophonie] among the countries of La Francophonie. The Canadian provinces of [[Quebec]] and [[New Brunswick]] send separate teams from the Canadian team, and the Belgian team is restricted to sending Francophone athletes. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. *'''2027''': July 23 to August 1, [[Yerevan]], Armenia ===National Games of China=== The National Games of China a multi-sport competition between [[China]]'s [[Chinese provinces and regions|provincial level units]], including [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]], as well as teams representing the Chinese military and various Chinese industry groups. Held in the year after the Summer Olympics. The standards of the diving and table tennis competitions in particular are regarded by most to be even higher than the Olympics. * '''2025''': [[Guangdong]], [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] <!-- ===Lusofonia Games=== The [http://www.acolop.org/ Lusofonia Games] among the world's Portuguese-speaking countries. Last held in 2014. ===Mediterranean Games=== --> === Maccabiah Games=== The [https://www.maccabiah.com/en/ Maccabiah Games] for Jewish athletes from 85 nations, and Israelis regardless of ethnicity or religion, are the third-largest multi-sports event by number of competitors after the Summer Olympics and Asian Games. Always held in Israel. * '''2025''': July, Israel ===Olympic Games=== {{main|Olympic Games}} * [[Milan–Cortina 2026|'''2026''': Winter Olympics]], 6 – 22 Feb, [[Milan]] and [[Cortina d'Ampezzo|Cortina]], [[Italy]] * [[Los Angeles 2028|'''2028''': Summer Olympics]], 21 Jul - 6 Aug, [[Los Angeles]], [[United States of America|USA]], with softball and canoe slalom to be held in [[Oklahoma City]] * [[French Alps 2030|'''2030''': Winter Olympics]], 1 - 17 Feb, multiple locations in the [[French Alps]], plus [[Nice]], [[France]] and [[Turin]], [[Italy]] * [[Brisbane 2032|'''2032''': Summer Olympics]], 23 Jul - 8 Aug, [[Brisbane]], [[Australia]] * [[Salt Lake City–Utah 2034|'''2034''': Winter Olympics]], 10 - 26 Feb, [[Salt Lake City]], [[United States of America|USA]], with other venues scattered around the state of [[Utah]] ===Pacific Games=== * The [http://websites.sportstg.com/assoc_page.cgi?c=2-2642-0-0-0&sID=24021 Pacific Games] among the countries of [[Oceania]] except Australia and New Zealand. * '''2027''': Pīraʻe, [[Tahiti]] ===Pan American Games=== The [http://www.panamsports.org Pan American Games] among the countries of the Americas. * '''2027''': 16 July — 1 August in [[Lima]], Peru ===South American Games=== A regional multi-sport event held between 15 nations from South America * '''2026''': 12 – 26 September, [[Rosario]] and Rafaela, Argentina ===Southeast Asian Games=== The Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), held every two years in odd-numbered years, among the countries of [[Southeast Asia]]. Features some sports that are only popular in Southeast Asia such as sepak takraw and silat. * '''2025''': 7–19 December, [[Bangkok]], Thailand * '''2027''': [[Kuala Lumpur]], Malaysia * '''2029''': Singapore * '''2031''': Laos * '''2033''': Philippines === Special Olympics=== The [https://www.specialolympics.org Special Olympics] are IOC-sanctioned events for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities. ==== Special Olympics World Summer Games ==== * '''2027''': Dates TBA, [[Perth]], [[Australia]] * '''2031''': Dates TBA, [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] ==== Special Olympics World Winter Games ==== * '''2025''': Dates TBA, [[Turin]] and other venues in the [[Piedmont]] region, [[Italy]] * '''2029''': Dates TBA, [[Chur]] and other venues in the [[Graubünden]] canton, [[Switzerland]] <!-- ===Student Games=== --> ===World Games=== Held every four years in the year after the summer Olympic Games. No events overlap with any contested in the Olympics. Many of the sports are not part of the Olympic program at all; the World Games also feature many non-Olympic disciplines or events within Olympic sports. The events are organized by the International World Games Association, which is recognized by the IOC. * '''2025''': 7–17 July, [[Chengdu]], China * '''2029''': 19–29 July, [[Karlsruhe]], Germany ==Events for a single sport== ===American football=== {{main|American football}} ==== National Football League ==== * '''Super Bowl LX''' – 8 February 2026 at Levi's Stadium in [[Santa Clara (California)|Santa Clara]], [[California]] (home to the San Francisco 49ers). * '''Super Bowl LXI''' – 14 February 2027 at SoFi Stadium in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Inglewood]], California (home to the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams). * '''Super Bowl LXII''' – Date TBA in February 2028 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in [[Atlanta/Downtown|downtown]] [[Atlanta]], Georgia (home to the Atlanta Falcons). =====NFL International Series===== At least five regular season games, with three in [[London]] (England) and at least two in other countries. The NFL has contracts with two London venues, namely Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The nominal home teams for the 2025 games have been announced (the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley, the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets at Spurs, the Indianapolis Colts in Berlin, the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin). The date for the Dublin game has been announced; other dates are expected to be announced in spring 2025.<!--Following standard US usage, the second team listed is the designated "home" team.--> ======NFL games in Mexico====== The NFL first held a regular season game in Mexico in 2005. Despite good attendance, the league did not return until the 2016 season, the first of what was meant to be a three-year deal to hold one game each season in that country. With both the 2016 and 2017 games selling out, the deal was extended through the 2021 season with an eye to possibly play more than one game per season in future years. All Mexico games thus far have been held in Estadio Azteca in [[Mexico City]]. The most recent Mexico game was in 2022. With Estadio Azteca being renovated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there will be no Mexico games until at least the 2026 season. ======NFL games in Germany====== In February 2022, the NFL announced a four-year agreement to expand the NFL International Series in Germany. The games were originally to be split between the Allianz Arena in Munich and Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt. The first game was held in the 2022 season. With the Mexico game being put on hold due to stadium renovations, there were two Germany games in 2023, both in Frankfurt. The 2024 game was held in Munich with the Carolina Panthers "hosting" and defeating the New York Giants. Berlin is joining the list of Germany hosts, with Olympiastadion set to host its first game at a so-far-undetermined date in 2025. ======NFL games in Brazil====== The NFL announced in November 2023 it would extend its International Series to Brazil. The first game in that country was held on September 6, 2024, with the Philadelphia Eagles "hosting" and defeating the Green Bay Packers at Arena Corinthians in [[São Paulo]]. Another Brazil game will be held on September 5, 2025, again at Arena Corinthians, with the Los Angeles Chargers as "host". ======NFL games in Spain====== Shortly after announcing the expansion to Brazil, the NFL extended the series to Spain. The first game in Spain will be held in 2025 at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in [[Madrid]] with the Miami Dolphins as "host". ======NFL games in Ireland====== The NFL has also extended the series to Ireland, with the first game being "hosted" by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 at Croke Park in [[Dublin]]. ======NFL games in Australia====== In 2026, the NFL expands its "International Series" to Australia, with the first game of the regular season being played at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground with the Los Angeles Rams "hosting". ==== US college football ==== * '''College Football Playoff National Championship''' ** 2026: Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], [[Florida]] (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 19 ** 2027: Allegiant Stadium in [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|Paradise]], [[Nevada]] (home of the Las Vegas Raiders); January 25 ** 2028: Caesars Superdome in [[New Orleans]], [[Louisiana]] (home of the New Orleans Saints); January 24 ** 2029: Raymond James Stadium in [[Tampa]], [[Florida]] (home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers); January 22 ** 2030: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (home of the Miami Dolphins); January 21 Each of these games is the championship for the previous calendar year. The bulk of the American football season takes place in the northern hemisphere fall/autumn. ====European League of Football==== * '''ELF Championship Game''' – 2025 edition at Neckarstadion (aka MHPArena) in [[Stuttgart]], Germany at a date in September to be determined ====German Football League==== * [http://www.germanbowl.de/ German Bowl] – 2025 host TBA ===Australian rules football=== {{main|Australian rules football}} ====Australian Football League==== * '''2025 AFL Grand Final''' at the [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground – 27 September ===Badminton=== Badminton is generally most popular in Asia, and Asian countries generally dominate the international tournaments; Denmark is the only non-Asian country to be considered a badminton powerhouse. Although badminton is popularly regarded as a backyard sport in the United States and often played outdoors recreationally, professional badminton is almost always played indoors. The '''[https://bwfworldtour.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour]''' is the premier professional tournament circuit, and is divided into six tiers. The top tier is occupied by a single tournament: the season-concluding '''[https://bwfworldtourfinals.bwfbadminton.com BWF World Tour Finals]''' in December every year. This is planned to be held in [[Hangzhou]], [[China]] until at least 2026. All BWF World Tour tournaments feature both men's and women's tournaments, as well as a mixed doubles tournament. The next tier is the BWF World Tour Super 1000, comprising the four most important tournaments on the circuit apart from the Finals, offering the largest number of ranking points and amount of prize money. As of 2024, they are as follows: *'''Malaysia Open''' — held in January every year at the Putra Indoor Stadium in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. *'''[https://www.allenglandbadminton.com All England Open]''' — the oldest international badminton tournament in the world, and the most prestigious tournament on the circuit. Held in March every year at the Arena Birmingham in [[Birmingham]]. *'''China Open''' — held in September every year. Since 2018, has been held at the Xincheng Gymnasium in [[Changzhou]]. *'''Indonesia Open''' — held in November every year at the Istora Gelora Bung Karno in [[Jakarta]]. Below that is the BWF World Tour 750, which offer less ranking points and prize money, but generally still attract most of the top players. *'''China Masters''' — held in November at the Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium in [[Shenzhen]]. *'''[https://denmarkopen.dk/ Denmark Open]''' — held in October at the Arena Fyn in [[Odense]]. *'''[https://www.yonexifb.com/uk/home French Open]''' — usually held in October, but the 2024 event was held in March at the Adidas Arena in [[Paris]] as a trial event for the Olympics. *'''[https://daihatsu-japan-open.com/ Japan Open]''' — held in August at the Yokohama Arena in [[Yokohama]]. *'''India Open''' — held in January at the K. D. Jadhav Indoor Hall in [[Delhi]]. *'''Singapore Open''' — held in late May or early June at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]]. The '''[https://bwfworldchampionships.bwfbadminton.com World Championships]''' are held every year except in Olympic years. Badminton has been an Olympic sport since 1992, with the Olympics generally being considered the premier tournament in the sport. There is also the '''Thomas Cup''' for men's national teams, and the '''Uber Cup''' for women's national teams, which mostly operate as multi-level leagues. ===Baseball=== {{seealso|Baseball|Baseball in the United States}} * World Baseball Classic * '''[https://www.seriedelcaribe.net/ Caribbean Series]''' (''Serie del Caribe'') is a championship tournament held in February each year. Champion teams from professional baseball leagues of various Caribbean and Latin American countries compete for the championship. * '''Little League World Series''' – Held over 10 days, ending on the last Sunday of August, in [[Williamsport|South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, USA]]. ===Basketball=== ====NBA==== {{seealso|Basketball in North America}} ====US college basketball==== The biggest event in US college (university) basketball is the NCAA Division I men's tournament, featuring 68 teams. The Division I women's tournament draws considerably less interest, but is still the biggest event in American women's college sports. The men's tournament begins on the Tuesday preceding the third Thursday in March (in terms of dates, no earlier than March 13 and no later than March 19) in [[Dayton|Dayton, Ohio]] with an eight-team round marketed as the First Four, featuring two games on Tuesday and two on Wednesday. The winners of these four games join the remaining 60 tournament teams for the first round, which starts on the third Thursday in March. The women's tournament expanded from 64 teams to 68 starting in 2022, with its own First Four; it starts the day after the men's tournament. The four-team final rounds of these tournaments are known as the Final Four. Future Final Four sites are: ;Men * 2026 – April 4 and 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in [[Indianapolis]] * 2027 – April 3 and 5 at Ford Field in [[Detroit]] * 2028 – April 1 and 3 at Allegiant Stadium just [[Las Vegas/West of I-15|west]] of the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Las Vegas Strip]] * 2029 – March 31 and April 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis * 2030 – April 6 and 8 at AT&T Stadium in [[Arlington (Texas)|Arlington, Texas]], between [[Dallas]] and [[Fort Worth]] ;Women * 2026 – April 3 and 5 at PHX Arena in [[Phoenix]] * 2027 – April 2 and 4 at Nationwide Arena in [[Columbus|Columbus, Ohio]] * 2028 – March 31 and April 2 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis * 2029 – March 30 and April 1 at the Alamodome in San Antonio * 2030 – April 5 and 7 at Moda Center in [[Portland (Oregon)|Portland, Oregon]] * 2031 – April 4 and 6 at American Airlines Center in Dallas ====EuroLeague==== The EuroLeague is basketball's equivalent to the UEFA Champions League in association football (soccer), featuring top club teams from throughout Europe (note that in sports, "Europe" includes several countries either partly or totally in Asia, most notably Russia, Turkey, and Israel). The season starts in October and ends with the '''EuroLeague Final Four''' in May. * 2026 – May 22 and 24 in either Athens or Belgrade (site TBA) ===Canadian football=== {{seealso|American football#Canadian Football League}} * '''112th Grey Cup''' at Princess Auto Stadium in [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]] (home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers); November 16, 2025 * '''113th Grey Cup''' at McMahon Stadium in [[Calgary/Northwest|northwest]] [[Calgary]], [[Alberta]] (home of the Calgary Stampeders); November 15, 2026 ===Cricket=== {{main|Cricket}} * '''[https://www.lords.org/lords/our-history/the-ashes The Ashes]''' — November 2025–January 2026 at the following venues in [[Australia]]: ** [[Perth]] Stadium, in the [[Perth/The Suburbs|northern suburb]] of Burswood — 21–25 November 2025 ** The Gabba, in the [[Brisbane]] suburb of Wooloongabba — 4–8 December 2025 ** [[Adelaide]] Oval, in the [[Adelaide/City and North Adelaide|parklands]] between the central business district and North Adelaide — 17–21 December 2025 ** [[Melbourne]] Cricket Ground, in Yarra Park in the city's [[Melbourne/Inner east|inner east]] — 26–30 December 2025. The traditional Boxing Day Test at the MCG is one of the sport's most iconic events. ** [[Sydney]] Cricket Ground, in Moore Park in the [[Sydney/City East|inner eastern suburbs]] — 4—8 January 2026 * '''Cricket World Cup''' — October—November 2027, co-hosted by [[South Africa]], [[Zimbabwe]] and [[Namibia]]. ===Cycling=== Road bicycle racing is broadly divided into two race types: * '''Single-day races''' — Exactly as the name implies, these races are held on a single day at around the same time each year. Some have fixed courses; more have fixed starting and end points with courses varying slightly from year to year. The most prestigious races of this type are often called "classics", but the term is poorly defined. * '''Stage races''' — Held over more than one day, with one race each day known as a "stage" (though some races, notably the Grand Tours, will include one or two rest days). While there is an award ceremony at the end of each stage, the overall winner is determined by "general classification"—the cumulative time for the entire race. The most famous road racing events for bicycles in the world are the three stage races known as Grand Tours. They are raced in Italy, France, and Spain but commonly also include legs in other countries. These tours, each featuring 21 stages, involve only men's races, and are even more prestigious than the road cycling events at the Olympics. * '''[https://www.giroditalia.it Giro d'Italia]''' — around Italy, usually takes place in May. * '''[https://www.letour.fr/en/ Tour de France]''' — around France, usually takes place in July. The most prestigious of the three. * '''[https://www.lavuelta.es/en Vuelta a España]''' — around Spain, usually takes place in August. While countless single-day races are run, both throughout Europe and worldwide, the most famous are the five races known as "Monuments", all of which were first held between 1890 and 1915. * '''[[Milan]]–[[Sanremo|San Remo]]''' (Italian: ''Milano–Sanremo'') – The first major classic of the year, usually on the third Saturday of March on a course between the two named locations. It's considered "the sprinters' classic" because its mostly flat course favors that type of rider. * '''Tour of [[Flanders]]''' (Dutch: ''Ronde van Vlaanderen'') – Held in early April through [[Belgium]]'s Flanders region between [[Antwerp]] and [[Oudenaarde]]. The first of the "cobbled classics", with many key sections (including several short but very steep hills) paved in cobblestones. * '''[[Paris]]–[[Roubaix]]''' – Probably ''the'' most famous single-day race, it's known as the "Queen of the Classics" and ''l'Enfer du Nord'' ("The Hell of the North [of France]"). Held one week after the Tour of Flanders, it features even longer stretches of cobblestone roads, making it arguably the hardest single-day race on riders. * '''[[Liège]]–[[Bastogne]]–Liège''' – Held in late April in Belgium, this race is nearly as hard on riders as Paris–Roubaix, but for different reasons, namely a long course with numerous short but steep hills in the [[Ardennes]] region, as well as an uphill finish in Liège. * '''Giro di [[Lombardy|Lombardia]]''' (officially ''Il Lombardia'') – The year's final Monument, held in October over a course that varies from year to year, with only a few fixed locations, most famously the arduous climb to the Madonna del Ghisallo church in Magreglio near Lake Como. The race ends in either [[Bergamo]] or [[Como]]. Known as "the climbers' classic" from its many significant climbs. Cycling is also featured at the Summer Olympics in 4 disciplines; track cycling, road cycling, mountain biking and BMX. With the exception of the men's road cycling discipline, these are generally considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of cycling. <!-- ===Gaelic football=== --> ===Golf=== {{main|Golf}} The most important professional golf tournaments in the world are knowns as the '''majors''', offering the largest amounts of prize money and world ranking points. The men's and women's professional circuits are run separately, with a separate set of majors for each sex. The most important men's professional circuit is the U.S.-based PGA Tour, while the corresponding professional circuit for women is the LPGA Tour, also based in the U.S. The PGA and LPGA also sanction some tournaments outside the U.S., and some tournaments are co-sanctioned by multiple professional circuits. For instance, all the men's majors are co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour, the European Tour and the Japan Golf Tour. Golf was an Olympic sport 1900–1904, and has been one since 2016. The Olympic golf tournament is less prestigious than the majors and offers no prize money, and many of the top male golfers choose to skip it, but the top female golfers usually participate. ====Men's==== ;Major championships Three of the four men's major championships are held in the U.S. The only exception is The Open Championship, also known as the "British Open". Each tournament is played from Thursday through Sunday, barring weather-related delays, and has a fixed weekend on the calendar. Tickets for practice sessions during the days before the tournament starts are also sold. A golfer who wins all four majors in the same calendar year is said to have completed the '''Grand Slam''', which has yet to be achieved (Tiger Woods won all four consecutively, but spanning two calendar years starting from the 2000 U.S. Open to the 2001 Masters Tournament; at the time, the PGA Championship was the year's final major, instead of the second). * '''Masters Tournament''' (always held at Augusta National Golf Club in [[Augusta (Georgia)|Augusta]], [[Georgia (state)|Georgia]]) – ends on the second Sunday in April. The next edition is set for 9–12 April 2026. * '''PGA Championship''' – ends on the third Sunday of May; next edition to be held 14–17 May 2026 at Aronimink Golf Club in the [[Philadelphia]] suburb of Newtown Square, [[Pennsylvania]]. ** Sites have been set through 2034, with the exception of 2033. * '''U.S. Open''' – ends on the third Sunday in June; next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in [[Southampton (New York)|Southampton]], New York (near the eastern end of [[Long Island]], about 85 miles/140 km from Midtown Manhattan). ** Sites have been set through 2042, as well as for most subsequent years through 2051. * '''The Open Championship''' – played during the week containing the third Friday in July; next edition to be held 17–20 July 2025 at Royal [[Portrush]] Golf Club in [[County Antrim]], [[Northern Ireland]] (about 60 mi/100 km from [[Belfast]] and 35 mi/60 km from [[Derry|Derry/Londonderry]]. The tournament returns to the historic Old Course at [[St Andrews]] every few years, and is of special significance when it does. ** The 2026 edition will be played at Royal Birkdale in [[Southport]] from 16–19 July. ** The 2027 edition will be held at the Old Course from 15–18 July. ;Other significant events * '''Ryder Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in odd-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2025 – 26–28 September at the Black Course of [[Bethpage]] State Park on [[Long Island]] (about 35 miles/56 km east of Midtown Manhattan) ** 2027 – 17-19 September at [[Adare]] Manor in [[County Limerick]], [[Ireland]] ** 2029 – Dates TBA in September at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota (a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]) *'''Presidents Cup''' (competition between a USA team and an "International" team of non-Europeans) – Held in even-numbered years; alternately hosted by the US and a non-European country ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Medinah Country Club in [[Medinah]], [[Illinois]] (a northwest suburb of [[Chicago]]). ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia (a [[Melbourne/South-Eastern suburbs|southeastern suburb]] of [[Melbourne]]). ** 2030 – Dates TBA at Bellerive Country Club in Town and Country, [[Missouri]] (in the West County region of [[St. Louis County]], which borders on the city of [[St. Louis]]). ====Women's==== ;Major championships Three of the five women's major championships are held in the U.S. As with the men's major championships, all are held from Thursday through Sunday (barring weather delays). * '''Chevron Championship''' (held at The Club at Carlton Woods in [[The Woodlands]], Texas, about 30 mi/50 km north of [[Houston]]) – The next edition is expected to be 23–26 April 2026. * '''U.S. Women's Open''' – Next edition to be held 4–7 June 2026 at Riviera Country Club in the [[Los Angeles]] neighborhood of [[Pacific Palisades]]. ** Future sites have been set through 2036, and for several subsequent years through 2048. * '''Women's PGA Championship''' – Next edition to be held 18–21 June 2026 at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota, a western suburb of the [[Twin Cities]]. * '''The Evian Championship''' (always held at the Evian Resort Golf Club in [[Evian|Évian-les-Bains]], [[France]]) – Typically held in July, though the dates haven't been consistent from year to year. The next edition will be from 10–13 July 2025. * '''Women's Open Championship''' (aka "Women's British Open") – From 2025, three weeks after the Evian Championship, allowing the tour to go on a European swing. The 2025 edition will be at Royal [[Porthcawl]] Golf Club in Wales from 31 July–3 August. ;Other significant events * '''Solheim Cup''' (USA vs. Europe team competition) – Held in even-numbered years (from 2024) in August or September; alternately hosted by the US and Europe ** 2026 – Dates TBA at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, [[Netherlands]] (just south of [['s-Hertogenbosch|Den Bosch]]) ** 2028 – Dates TBA at Valhalla Golf Club in [[Louisville|Louisville, Kentucky]] (slightly less than 20 mi/32 km east of downtown) * '''International Crown''' (team competition involving seven national teams, plus a "World" team made up of players not from one of the preceding seven countries) – From 2023, held in odd-numbered years in October ** 2025 – 23–26 October at New Korea Country Club in [[Goyang]], [[South Korea]] ===Handball=== {{see also|Handball in Europe}} Olympic or team Handball is a fast paced team sport that is mostly played indoors and enjoys considerable popularity in most of continental Europe. The world cup as well as the European championship are major events, second only to soccer. The best national leagues (found in Germany, France and the Nordic countries) battle out a club champion every year. There is also the [http://www.ehfcl.com EHF Champions League] which battles out Europe's top club team every year. === Ice hockey === {{seealso|Ice hockey in North America|Ice hockey in Europe}} ==== Men's ==== ;IIHF Men's World Championship * 2026: 15–31 May, [[Zurich|Zürich]] and [[Fribourg]], [[Switzerland]] * 2027: 14–30 May, [[Düsseldorf]] and [[Mannheim]], [[Germany]] * 2028: 12–28 May, [[Paris]] and [[Lyon]], [[France]] ==== Women's ==== ;IIHF Women's World Championship Since 2022, the top level of the Women's World Championships has been held annually, even in Winter Olympic years. From 1997–2021, the top level was an annual affair, but Winter Olympic years were skipped. * 2026: Host, dates, and sites TBA ===Motor racing=== {{seealso|Motor sport}} ====[[Formula One]]==== See the dedicated article. ====NASCAR==== A U.S. stock car racing organization, and the country's most popular form of motorsport. The term "stock car" is a historic reference; when NASCAR first organized races in the years immediately after World War II, the cars were in fact "stock"—exactly as purchased from dealers, with minimal safety-related changes. Over time, the cars changed to the point that they are only vaguely similar in external appearance to current street vehicles, with much more powerful engines and far more safety equipment. NASCAR now operates three national touring series: * Cup Series, the top series * Xfinity Series, the second level * Craftsman Truck Series, the third level, which races pickup trucks instead of cars; usually called simply the "Truck Series" Most races are held on oval tracks. For many years, no more than one or two Cup Series races were held on road courses, but since 2021 that number has gone up to six. Five Xfinity Series races and three Truck Series are also held on road courses. Before COVID-19, the Truck Series held one race in Canada, but border restrictions led to that date being transferred south of the border, and NASCAR has yet to return any of its U.S. national series to Canada (although it runs a separate Canadian series). The sport used to be centered in the Southeastern U.S., but beginning in the 1990s it expanded to become a national spectacle. A typical NASCAR event spans a long weekend, with two or even all three series holding races at one site. Unlike most sports, NASCAR's biggest event is the ''first'' race of the season: * '''Daytona 500''', held on the day before the Presidents Day holiday (which falls on the third Monday of February) at Daytona International Speedway in [[Daytona Beach]], [[Florida]] ====IndyCar==== A U.S.-based open-wheel racing series. It was established in its current form in 2008, when the IndyCar Series (launched in 1996) merged with the former Champcars series. The merger is a story in itself—as late as the early 1990s, open-wheel racing, governed by a body known as CART (which later became Champcars), was the most popular form of motorsport in the U.S. However, in 1994, the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the series' marquee event, the Indianapolis 500, had a bitter falling-out with CART, leading to the creation of the competing IndyCar series (which took the Indy 500 with it). The feud led many former open-wheel fans to abandon the sport, often for NASCAR. By the time the feud ended, attendance and sponsorship money for the sport were a fraction of what they had been only 15 years earlier, and only in the late 2010s had it begun to recover some of its original prominence. All of the series' races are held in the U.S. except for one on a street course in [[Toronto]]. The tracks are a mixture of ovals, road courses, and street circuits. The series' marquee event, as mentioned above, is: * '''Indianapolis 500''', held the day before the U.S. holiday of Memorial Day (which falls on the last Monday of May) at the [[Indianapolis]] Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana (a community completely surrounded by the city of Indianapolis) ==== Motorcycle speedway ==== Motorcycle speedway is a sport where lightweight motorcycles race each other on an oval-shaped track. It is most popular in [[Poland]] but also has a major presence in [[Australia]], [[Britain]], and [[Sweden]]. ===== Important events ===== *'''Speedway Grand Prix''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's late spring, summer, and early fall. *'''Speedway of Nations''', held annually in the Northern Hemisphere's summer (usually June or July). ===Rugby=== {{main|Rugby football}} ====Rugby union==== * 2025 '''Rugby Championship''', various locations in [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]], and [[South Africa]]. Normally held August–October, with an abbreviated and time-shifted version held in years of the men's Rugby World Cup. * 2025: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to Australia, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in England, 22 August–27 September *** Note that World Rugby, the governing body for union, uses the "Rugby World Cup" name for both its men's and women's championship events. * 2026 '''Six Nations Championship''', February–March: ** [[Cardiff]], Principality Stadium (Millennium Stadium) ** [[Dublin]], Aviva Stadium ** [[Edinburgh]], Scottish Gas Murrayfield ** [[London]], Twickenham Stadium ** [[Rome]], Stadio Olimpico ** [[Saint-Denis (Île-de-France)|Saint-Denis]] ([[Paris]]), Stade de France * 2027 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2029: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to New Zealand, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in Australia, dates TBA * 2031 '''Rugby World Cup''' (men's) in the United States, dates TBA * 2033: ** '''British and Irish Lions tour''' to South Africa, June–July ** '''Rugby World Cup''' (women's) in the United States, dates TBA ====Rugby sevens==== * '''World Rugby Sevens Series''' and '''World Rugby Women's Sevens Series''': A series of 8 tournaments for national men's and women's sevens teams held at various locations around the world. In the current format, all events see both sexes compete on the same weekend. Marketed as the '''HSBC SVNS''' (with HSBC being the main corporate sponsor). World Rugby has scrapped the former Rugby World Cup Sevens, making the annual SVNS series its effective successor. ** '''[[Dubai]] Sevens''' – The traditional season opener, held on the weekend including the first Saturday in December at a stadium known as The Sevens. ** '''South Africa Sevens''' – Held on the weekend after the Dubai Sevens at [[Cape Town]] Stadium. ** '''Australian Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of January at [[Perth]] Rectangular Stadium (commercially HBF Park). ** '''Canada Sevens''' – Held on the last weekend of February at BC Place in [[Vancouver/Yaletown-False Creek|downtown]] [[Vancouver]]. ** '''USA Sevens''' – Held the weekend after the Canada Sevens at Dignity Health Sports Park in the [[Los Angeles]] suburb of [[Carson|Carson, California]]. ** '''[[Hong Kong]] Sevens''' – The most famous men's event. Held in early April at Hong Kong Stadium in So Kon Po, in the [[Hong Kong/Eastern District|east]] of Hong Kong Island. ** '''[[Singapore]] Sevens''' – Held in early May at the National Stadium in Kallang, a district just to the [[Singapore/East Coast|northeast]] of the Downtown Core. ** '''[[Madrid]] Sevens''' – The final event, held at Estadio Metropolitano in the city's [[Madrid/Northern Suburbs|northern]] San Blas district. ====Rugby league==== =====National Rugby League===== *'''NRL Grand Final''' – The first or second Saturday of October at the Sydney Cricket Ground, just [[Sydney/Eastern Suburbs|east of the city centre]]. *'''State of Origin''' series – three matches in all in May–July. One match is normally held in the capital city of each state represented: Stadium Australia (aka Accor Stadium) in the [[Sydney/Sydney Olympic Park|Sydney Olympic Park]], and Lang Park (aka Suncorp Stadium) in [[Brisbane]]. The third game rotates between several cities outside New South Wales and Queensland: [[Adelaide]] (Adelaide Oval), [[Melbourne]] (Melbourne Cricket Ground), and [[Perth]] (Perth Stadium, aka Optus Stadium). =====Super League===== *'''Super League Grand Final''' – =====International===== *'''2026 Rugby League World Cup''' - [[France]] ===Soccer=== {{seealso|Association football|Association football in Europe}} ====Men's==== * '''2025''' FIFA U-17 World Cup, 3–27 November in [[Qatar]]. This becomes an annual event starting in 2025, with Qatar confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2025''' FIFA U-20 World Cup, 27 September–19 October in several cities in [[Chile]] (final most likely in [[Santiago]]) * '''2026''' FIFA World Cup in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], and [[Mexico]]; 11 June–19 July (final in [[East Rutherford]], New Jersey, near New York City) ====Women's==== * '''2025''' [https://www.fifa.com/u17womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, 17 October–8 November in [[Morocco]]. Starting in 2025, this becomes an annual event, with Morocco confirmed as host through 2029. * '''2026''' [https://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup/index.html FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup],{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} 5–27 September in [[Poland]] * '''2027''' FIFA Women's World Cup in [[Brazil]], 24 June–25 July ===Table tennis=== [[China]] has been the world's dominant force in table tennis since at least the 1980s, so it comes as no surprise that the '''China Table Tennis Super League''' (CTTSL) is one of the best tournaments in the world, featuring not only the best players from all over China, but several top international players as well. The main international professional circuit is known as '''[https://worldtabletennis.com/ World Table Tennis]''' (WTT), of which the top level is known as the '''WTT Series'''. The most important WTT Series tournaments, offering the most world ranking points and prize money, are known as the '''Grand Smashes''', of which there are three, as of 2024: *'''[https://www.singaporesmash.com Singapore Smash]''' — held in March at the Singapore Sports Hub in [[Singapore/East Coast|Kallang]] *'''[https://www.saudismash.com Saudi Smash]''' — held in May at King Abdullah Sports City in [[Jeddah]] *'''China Smash''' — held in late September and early October at Shougang Park in [[Beijing]] The season-concluding tournament of the WTT Series is the '''WTT Finals''', featuring the top 16 singles players and top 8 doubles pairs of each sex. The 2024 WTT Finals will be held from 20-24 November at the [[Kitakyushu]] General Gymnasium. Table tennis is also contested at the Summer Olympics, which is considered to be the pinnacle of the sport. The table tennis event at the Olympics consists of men's and women's singles, men's and women's teams, and a mixed doubles event. There is also the annual '''World Table Tennis Championships''', which is contested between individuals and doubles pairs in odd years, and between national teams in even years. ===Tennis=== ''See also [[Tennis]].'' Tennis has events throughout the calendar year. The top-level men's tour is the ATP Tour, with the WTA Tour as the women's counterpart. The men's and women's tours come together for the four '''Grand Slam''' events and a few other select tournaments throughout the year. The only players to have ever completed the Grand Slam are Don Budge (1938) and Rod Laver (1962 & 1969) in the men's event, and Maureen Connolly (1953), Margaret Court (1970) and Steffi Graf (1988) in the women's event. In addition to these, the '''[https://www.daviscup.com/ Davis Cup]''' for men and '''[https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/ Billie Jean King Cup]''' (known as the Fed Cup until 2020) for women are the top events for national teams; these operate as multi-level leagues. The top levels (now known as the "Finals" in both events) were traditionally conducted as knockout tournaments, but now use a format similar to that of the FIFA World Cup, with all qualifying nations meeting at a single site for a group stage followed by a knockout stage. A player who wins all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in the same calendar year is said to have completed a '''golden slam''', and the only able-bodied player to have done so to date was Germany's Steffi Graf in 1988. (The doubles partnership of American identical twins Bob and Mike Bryan, aka the Bryan Brothers, won all of the required events consecutively, but their streak started with the 2012 Olympics, thus spanning two calendar years. Two wheelchair tennis players have completed the calendar-year golden slam, with their version replacing the able-bodied Olympics with the Paralympic Games.) At the professional level, tennis court surfaces can be divided into three types: grass, clay and hard. Each of these surfaces has a different bounce profile for the ball, thus favouring different playing styles. While all professional tennis players are competent on all three surfaces, some players are known to excel on particular surfaces; for instance, Rafael Nadal was known for his excellence on clay courts during his prime, while Roger Federer was well-known for his prowess on grass courts. Most ATP and WTA events feature both singles and doubles tournaments, with Grand Slams and the Olympics also featuring a mixed doubles tournament. ====Grand Slam events==== All four of these events are held over two weeks (15 days of play at all events except Wimbledon, still at 14). They are considered to be the pinnacle of the sport of tennis, and are even more prestigious than the Olympics. * '''[https://ausopen.com/ Australian Open]''': Ends on the last Sunday in January at [[Melbourne]] Park just outside the city centre. Frequently suffers from hot and humid weather in the southern summer, although this has been alleviated by retractable roofs on the three main courts. The final is held in the Rod Laver Arena, which is named after Rod Laver, the only player to have completed a grand slam twice, and the last man to achieve the feat when he did so in 1969. Has been played on hard courts since 1988. * '''[https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/ French Open]''' (also known as ''Roland Garros''): Held in late May and early June at ''Stade Roland Garros'' in the Bois de Boulogne in the [[Paris/16th arrondissement|16th arondissement]] of [[Paris]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event still held on clay courts. * '''[https://www.wimbledon.com/ Wimbledon]''': Begins on the first Monday in July and ends on the second Sunday following at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in the [[London/Wimbledon|Wimbledon]] neighbourhood of southwest [[London]]. Notable for being the only Grand Slam event held on grass courts, requiring all players to dress only in white (though women are now allowed to wear colored underwear to better hide menstruation), and many other traditions. The oldest and most prestigious of the Grand Slams. * '''[https://www.usopen.org/ US Open]''': Begins in August, on the Sunday that precedes the weekend of the US holiday of Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September. Ends on the Sunday following Labor Day. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in the northern part of the [[New York City]] borough of [[Queens]]. Has been played on hard courts since 1978. ====Season-ending championships==== Both the ATP and WTA have season-ending events for the very top players, with eight players qualifying for the finals in singles and eight teams in doubles. The competitors are divided into two groups of four, each playing a round-robin within the group. The top two finishers in each group advance to the semifinals, with the winners of each semifinal contesting the final. * '''[https://www.nittoatpfinals.com/en ATP Finals]''': Mid-November at Pala Alpitour (aka Palasport Olimpico) in [[Turin]], Italy. * '''[https://www.wtatennis.com/wta-finals WTA Finals]''': Late October–early November in [[Riyadh]], Saudi Arabia. In the mid-2010s, the WTA Tour launched the '''WTA Elite Trophy''', a second season-ending event for players immediately below those who qualify for the WTA Finals. It was suspended because Covid-19 from 2020 to 2020.. ====Other top-tier events==== Both the ATP and WTA have a multi-level hierarchy of events, with the Grand Slams at the top, followed by the season-ending championships and then the events shown here (with other levels below these in both cases). The two tours have differing terminology for this level: * ATP: Nine events known as the "ATP Tour Masters 1000". All top players are required to enter these events (barring injury or other misfortune), with the exception of the Monte-Carlo Masters. * WTA: The "WTA 1000" was established in 2021 by the merger of the former "Premier Mandatory" and "Premier 5" events. Since 2024, there have been ten WTA 1000 tournaments, all of which are mandatory. * Olympics: The tennis event at the Olympics is less prestigious than the Grand Slams, and many top players choose to skip it, while those who compete often do not take it seriously and lose to little-known lower-ranked opponents. Moreover, the Olympics typically falls in the middle of the U.S. hard court season, meaning that players miss important tournaments and lose valuable ranking points in their quest to qualify for the season-ending championships should they choose to participate. That said, there is a special prestige attached to winning all four grand slams and the Olympic gold medal in a single calendar year, known as a golden slam. Unlike in the professional circuits, doubles pairs at the Olympics must be from the same country. With that in mind, here are the ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events: * '''[[Qatar]] Ladies Open''': Mid-February at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in [[Doha]]. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Dubai]] Tennis Championships''': Late February at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour also plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''Indian Wells Masters''' (men) and '''Indian Wells Open''' (women): Early March in [[Indian Wells]], California (near Palm Springs). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Miami Open''': Late March–early April at Hard Rock Stadium in [[Miami Gardens]], Florida (north of the city of Miami). ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Monte-Carlo Masters''': Mid-April at Monte Carlo Country Club in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, next to Monaco. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Madrid]] Open''': Mid-May at Caja Mágica in Madrid. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Italian Open''': Week following the Madrid Open at Foro Italico in Rome. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Canadian Open''': Early August at Stade IGA in Montreal and Sobeys Stadium (formerly Aviva Centre) in Toronto. In odd-numbered years, the men play in Montreal and the women in Toronto, and vice versa in even-numbered years. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''Cincinnati Masters''' (men) and '''Cincinnati Open''' (women): Week after the Canadian Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in [[Mason (Ohio)|Mason, Ohio]], northeast of [[Cincinnati]]. ''ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000.'' * '''[[Wuhan]] Open''': Last week of September at Optics Valley International Tennis Center. ''WTA 1000.'' * '''China Open''': Start of October, immediately following the Wuhan Open, at the National Tennis Center in [[Beijing]]. ''WTA 1000.'' The ATP Tour plays here at the same time, but the men's tournament is a lower-tier ''ATP 500'' event. * '''[[Shanghai]] Masters''': Week after the China Open at Qi Zhong Stadium in the southwest of the city. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' * '''[[Paris]] Masters''': Late October–early November at AccorHotels Arena in the [[Paris/12th arrondissement|12th arrondissement]]. ''ATP Masters 1000.'' The Grand Slams, tour finals and ATP Masters 1000/WTA 1000 tournaments are collectively known as the '''Big Titles'''. Serbia's Novak Djokovic is the only singles player of either sex to have won all the Big Titles in the course of his career, and was said to have "completed the game of tennis" by adding the Olympic gold medal to those in 2024. Three other men's players, all retired, have won all of the Big Titles in doubles—Canadian Daniel Nestor as an individual, and the aforementioned Bryan Brothers as a team. All also have Olympic gold medals in doubles. Djokovic and the Bryans have also been on national teams that won the Davis Cup. ==Stay safe== Take precautions typical for [[Stay safe#Mass gatherings|large crowds]] and major events, with risk factors such as [[pickpocketing]], [[infectious diseases]], drunk brawls and stampedes. '''Hooliganism''' is organized violence associated with sport fandom, in particular prevalent in [[association football in Europe|men's football in Europe]]. The risk of hooliganism differs between countries and teams, and might be difficult to assess from a neutral source. {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Sports}} 7nzd5qix1su8lkipitbujnai225nzxj 0 15685 5090919 5085798 2025-07-10T15:26:10Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ event > 2026 5090919 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} {{otheruses}} '''Inverness''' ([[Scottish Gaelic phrasebook|Scottish Gaelic]]: ''Inbhir Nis'', "Mouth of the River Ness") is a city in [[The Great Glen and Strathspey]] area of the [[Scottish Highlands]], at the point where the River Ness flows out into the Moray Firth. Inverness is the only town of any size in the Highlands, and is the region's commercial and administrative centre. It's an agreeable Victorian town that has no stand-out tourist attractions of its own, but has good transport and choice of lodging and eating places. So it's a good base for exploring nearby Loch Ness, Black Isle, Culloden, Spey Valley and Cairngorm National Park. == Understand == [[File:Invernesscastle.jpg | thumb | 300px | Inverness Castle and the River Ness]] Inverness is at the north end of the great fault line and valley through the Highlands, so it controls trade and transport routes. There was a Pictish and early Christian settlement by the 6th century, and it was the abode of that much-maligned 11th-century ruler Macbeth. Town and castle were wrecked by conflicts on many occasions, the last incursion being the Jacobites in 1746. The present castle is from 1835. Inverness is nominally a city but feels like a provincial market town. The hinterland is thinly populated, lacks mineral resources and is a long way from major conurbations, so local industry has always been on a small scale. What you see now is mostly Victorian, with an encrustation of modern shop fronts. In 2022 Inverness had a population of 47,800. '''[https://www.visitscotland.com/info/services/inverness-icentre-p333031 VisitScotland iCentre]''' is the tourist office, at 36 High Street ({{phone|+44 1463 252401}}), open daily 9:30AM-5PM. They'll point you towards [[Loch Ness]] a few miles south, but the River Ness through town had the first recorded sighting of the monster, in the 5th century AD. St Columba was in the area to meet the local Pictish king when it raised its slimy head, but he made the Sign of the Cross, which shooed it away. == Get in == {{Mapframe | 57.475 | -4.225 | height=600 | width=550 | zoom=14 }} === By plane === {{go | name=Inverness Airport | alt={{IATA|INV}} | url=https://www.hial.co.uk/inverness-airport | email= | address=Ardersier IV2 7JB | lat=57.5425 | long=-4.0475 | directions=5 miles east of city off A96 to Nairn | phone=+44 1667 464000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Inverness Airport | wikidata=Q1431553 | lastedit=2024-08-06 | content=Regular direct flights are by KLM from [[Amsterdam Schiphol]] ({{IATA|AMS}}), British Airways from [[London Heathrow]] ({{IATA|LHR}}), Easyjet from Luton and Gatwick, Aurigny from [[Guernsey]], Jet2.com and Ryanair from European hubs and the Med, and by TUI from the Med. The airport is small but modern, with cafes, car hire, and ATMs. Stagecoach Bus 11 / 11A ("Jet Bus") runs to Inverness every 30 min taking 25 min, and to Nairn hourly. A taxi between the airport and the city costs around £25. The Inverness-Aberdeen trains stop here but it's a mile to the station on a poor track. There's a hotel next to the airport. }} === By road === Take your time, the roads north of Perth are in good repair but mostly undivided, with few safe overtaking stretches and plenty of speed cameras. From the south travel up A9 via [[Perth (Scotland) | Perth]] and Aviemore. Starting from Edinburgh follow M90 over the Forth road bridge to Perth; from Glasgow follow M80 / A9 past Stirling. From the London area you could go either way: via M1 / A1 to Newcastle and Edinburgh, or M1 / M6 / M74 past Carlisle onto M73 then M80. Bleak Drumochter Pass approaching Aviemore is the only stretch that might be blocked by snow, but it's seldom. North of Carrbridge, the Tomatin-Moy section is being dualled, expect some disruption until this is completed in 2028. From Aberdeen via the A96 is 110 miles (176 km). The A82 tracks through the Great Glen from the south-west, from [[Fort William]] and Loch Ness. From [[Thurso]] and [[Wick (Scotland) | Wick]] in the far north follow A9. === By train === {{seealso|Rail travel in Great Britain}} Inverness has trains from Edinburgh and Glasgow (direct every couple of hours or change at Perth, 4 hours), from Aberdeen (every two hours, 2 hr 15 min), from Kyle of Lochalsh for Skye (four per day, 2 hr 40 min) and from Wick and Thurso for Orkney (four per day, 4 hours). Travelling from England usually involves changing in Edinburgh, but there is one direct daytime train from [[London King's Cross]] via York and Newcastle, taking 8 hours. '''The [https://www.sleeper.scot/ Caledonian Highland Sleeper]''' runs Su-F from [[London Euston]], departing around 9:30PM to arrive by 9AM. (Other portions for Aberdeen and Fort William divide at Edinburgh.) The southbound train leaves Inverness around 7PM to reach Euston towards 8AM. No trains on Saturday night. Compartments have two berths and are sold like hotel rooms: you pay extra for single occupancy, and you won't be sharing with a stranger. Tickets can be booked at any UK mainline railway station or online: in 2024 a single sleeper fare is around £270 for one or £300 for two people. You can also just use the sitting saloon, single £55. If you have an existing ticket or rail pass for a daytime train you need to buy a sleeper supplement. Pricing is dynamic: weekends cost more, if indeed there are berths available. Booking is open 12 months ahead and you need to print out your e-ticket to present on boarding. {{marker | type=go | name=Inverness railway station | lat=57.4798 | long=-4.2235 }} is in city centre on Academy Street. It has a staffed ticket office and machines, toilets and a news shop; no cafe but plenty of pubs and eateries on the street outside. There is step-free access to all platforms. Lockers for luggage charge £5 for a small locker, which fits a backpack. Plusbus tickets are available. === By bus === [[File:Inverness railway station IMG 3429 (14723150877).jpg | thumb | 300px | The first railway from London arrived in 1858: "Donald, where's yer troosers?" ]] Buses run every hour or so from Edinburgh and Glasgow via Perth and Aviemore. The main operators are [http://www.citylink.co.uk/ Citylink], Parks of Hamilton and Megabus. Travel from England usually involves changing in Edinburgh, but [http://www.nationalexpress.com/ National Express] and [http://www.megabus.com/ Megabus] have a few through-services. Stagecoach Bus 10 runs from Aberdeen via Huntly, Elgin, Forres and Nairn, taking four hours to Inverness. It runs every two hours M-Sa and every three hours on Sunday. Citylink / Stagecoach Bus 919 runs from Fort William along the A82 via Spean Bridge, Laggan, Fort Augustus, Urquhart Castle and Drumnadrochit. There are four M-Sa and two on Sunday. Stagecoach Bus 917 runs twice daily from Portree on Skye along the A82 and A87 via Broadford, Kyle of Lochalsh, Dornie, Invermoriston, Castle Urquhart and Drumnadrochit. Change at Portree for ferries from the Western Isles via Uig. Citylink Bus 961 runs from Ullapool, ferry port for Stornoway on Lewis, twice M-Sa and once on Sunday. There are buses at least hourly to the Black Isle: from Inverness to Invergordon and Tain (with a few continuing to Brora and Helmsdale), to Fortrose and Cromarty, and to Dingwall and Strathpeffer. Stagecoach Highlands X99 runs twice M-Sa from Thurso and Wick via Tain to Inverness, 4 hours. {{marker | name=Inverness bus station | type=go | lat=57.481 | long=-4.225 }} is in Farraline Park, a couple of blocks northwest of the railway station. The bus station has a ticket office with luggage storage, cafe and toilets. === By boat === Inverness port has freight but no passenger vessels. Cruise ships often dock at Invergordon, 20 miles north. Most visitors will be on package coach trips of the area, but you could also ride into town independently on the train in less than an hour. But with only four trains per day you need to be sure of your connections. '''[https://www.scottishcanals.co.uk/canals/caledonian-canal/ Caledonian Canal]''' links the Beauly Firth through Loch Ness to Fort William and the sea at Loch Linnhe. The latter is usually well-sheltered, so small craft can easily continue to Glencoe, Oban and Mull. == Get around == [[File:Inverness Victorian Market - Scotland - panoramio.jpg | thumb | 300px | Victorian Market ]] === By bus === Inverness is fairly small and you're unlikely to use the bus. Bus 3 runs to Culloden, and Bus 11 to the airport and the seaside town of Nairn. Bus 16 runs along the east bank of Loch Ness from Inverness to Dores, Inverfarigaig and Foyers, four times M-F and twice on Saturday. === By taxi === Operators include [https://inverness-taxis.com/ Inverness Taxis] ({{phone|+44 1463 222222}}), [https://a2btaxisinverness.co.uk/ A2B] ({{phone|+44 1463 807060}}), [https://www.capitaltaxisinverness.co.uk/ Capital] ({{phone|+44 1463 808080}}) and [https://www.invernesspremiertaxis.co.uk/ Inverness Premier Taxis] ({{phone|+44 1463 800223}}). They can usually offer minibuses suitable for groups, and pick up from the airport or Invergordon cruiser terminal for day tours. They'll be fully booked when there's a major golf tournament in town. ===By bike=== You don't need one in town, but bike is a good way to reach Loch Ness, and the sights around Culloden. [https://www.invernessbikehire.co.uk Inverness Bike Hire] are based at 12A Church Street. Open daily 9AM-11PM. [https://www.tickettoridehighlands.co.uk/bike-hire-inverness.php Ticket to Ride] bike hire are based at Bellfield Park. Open daily 9AM-5.30PM. == See == === In town === [[File:Inverness IMG 3420 (14723101918).jpg | thumb | 300px | Abertarff House ]] * {{see | name=Inverness Castle | alt= | url= | email= | address=IV2 3EG | lat=57.4763 | long=-4.2255 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Closed until late 2025 | price= | wikipedia=Inverness Castle | wikidata=Q6060213 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=A great defensive position it's not: castles on this site have been serially destroyed, most recently in 1746 when its Jacobite occupiers wrecked the medieval bastion to prevent its use by government forces. The elegant pink sandstone edifice that now stands here was built in 1847. Until 2020 It housed the law courts - they've moved to a modern building on Longman Rd, and the castle is being redeveloped as a visitor attraction. So meanwhile you can admire the exterior. }} * {{see | name=Inverness Museum & Art Gallery | alt= | url=https://www.highlifehighland.com/inverness-museum-and-art-gallery/ | email=inverness.museum@highlifehighland.com | address=Castle Wynd IV2 3EB | lat=57.47708 | long=-4.22603 | directions=south flank of castle | phone=+44 1349 781730 | tollfree= | hours=Apr-Oct Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM; Nov-Mar Tu-Th noon-4PM, F Sa 11AM-4PM | price=Donation | wikipedia=Inverness Museum and Art Gallery | wikidata=Q16848391 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=The museum has a collection of Pictish stones and wildlife dioramas, as well as historic weapons. The gallery has art exhibitions on two floors, no permanent collection. }} * {{see | name=Victorian Market | alt= | url=https://thevictorianmarket.co.uk/ | email= | address=Academy St IV1 1JN | lat=57.47922032243543 | long=-4.224658599277109 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 710524 | tollfree= | hours=8AM–6PM daily | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-04-08 | content=19th-century shopping arcade opposite the railway station. }} * {{see | name=Abertarff House | alt= | url=https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/abertarff-house | email= | address=71 Church St IV1 1ES | lat=57.4792 | long=-4.2277 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Apr-Oct Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM | price=Free | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Built in 1593, the oldest house in Inverness, now run by the National Trust for Scotland, with a small exhibition and garden. }} * {{see | name=Old High Church | alt= | url=https://oldhighststephens.com | email= | address=Church Street IV1 1EY | lat=57.4801 | long=-4.2289 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F 2-4PM, Su 11AM-12:30PM | price= | wikipedia=Old High St Stephen's | wikidata=Q7084210 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=The oldest in Inverness, this Gothic Church of Scotland parish church was mostly built in the 18th century, and there's probably been a church on this site since St Columba's time. The congregation is referred to as "Old High St Stephens" reflecting a merger in 2003 between this and St Stephens, a 19th-century church half a mile south. Both churches remain active but nowadays all services are in St Stephens. }} [[File:Inverness Cathedral (26875637193).jpg | thumb | 300px | Inverness Cathedral]] * {{see | name=Chapel Yard Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=57.481755219868674 | long=-4.228928962928526 | directions=off Chapel Street | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-04-08 | content=Its denizens are mostly 19th-century, but the original Chapel of St Mary, part of a monastery, was 14th-century. Chapel and monastery are long gone as Cromwell carried off the masonry to build a bastion. }} * {{see | name=Inverness Cathedral | alt=St Andrew’s | url=https://invernesscathedral.org/ | email= | address=Ardross St IV3 5NN | lat=57.4746 | long=-4.2291 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-6PM | price= | wikipedia=Inverness Cathedral | wikidata=Q2399661 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Scottish Episcopal (Anglican) cathedral, built in 1869 in a mix of red sandstone and granite. Look up to the two giant spires . . . which aren't there, because the money for building ran out. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church | alt= | url=https://www.stmarysinverness.co.uk/ | email=stmarysinverness@btinternet.com | address=30 Huntly Street IV3 5PR | lat=57.4779 | long=-4.23008 | directions=200 yards downstream from St Andrews | phone=+44 1463 233519 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17572252 | lastedit=2025-04-08 | content=The main Roman Catholic church, built in 1837, with fine stained glass windows and altar. It's not a cathedral as the RC diocese is based in Aberdeen. }} * {{see | name=Balnain House | alt= | url=https://www.ambaile.org.uk/asset/13558/ | email= | address=Huntly St IV3 5PR | lat=57.4788 | long=-4.23123 | directions=downstream from Greig St Bridge | phone=+44 1463 232034 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17572255 | lastedit=2025-04-08 | content=A fine mansion of 1726 but only occasionally open. }} * {{see|name=Knocknagael Boar Stone|lat=57.473042636551234|long=-4.233948345351785|content=Pictish, carved around 600 AD, showing a wild boar amidst spirals and bristles. It's been moved from the farm where it was found to the south side of the Highland Council offices on Glenurquhart Rd.}} * {{see | name=Inverness Botanic Gardens | alt= | url=https://www.highlifehighland.com/inverness-botanic-gardens/ | email= | address=Bught Lane IV3 5SS | lat=57.4632 | long=-4.2404 | directions=1 mile S of centre off A82 | phone=+44 1463 701019 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9:30AM-4PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q131822243 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Glasshouse and gardens, with a range of exotic plants, plus a cafe. Assistance dogs only. }} === Further out === [[File:The Jacobite Queen at Dochgarroch (geograph 3093526).jpg | thumb | 300px | Dochgarroch Locks at the end of Loch Ness ]] * {{marker | name=Craig Phadrig | type=see | lat=57.477 | long=-4.269 }} is a forested hill of 564 ft (172 m) topped by a vitrified fort, It was built around 4th century AD and occupied to the 7th, and is probably the place where St Columba met King Bridei mac Maelchon. But at some point the fort burned so furiously that its stone was fused into glass. It's an active forestry site so you may have to work around logging. * {{marker | name=Dochgarroch Locks | type=see | lat=57.4332 | long=-4.3023 }} are where [[Loch Ness]] drains into the Caledonian Canal towards town. This north tip of Loch Ness is called Loch Dochfour but it's the same body of water. * {{marker | name=Druid Temple | type=see | lat=57.4494 | long=-4.1926 }} is more accurately a neolithic burial cairn and stone circle, rather overgrown. You may be able to access it via Druid Farm and Shop just east. A similar cairn and circle was found at Raigmore when the A9 was re-routed towards Kessock Bridge; it was moved to a nearby site which is now difficult to access amidst hospital and industrial buildings. * '''[[Culloden]]''', five miles east, is best known for the 1746 battlefield where Bonny Prince Charlie's Jacobite army was finally shattered. It also has the Bronze Age "Clava Cairns", and Cawdor Castle associated with Shakespeare's ''Macbeth''. == Do == * '''River Ness''' and '''Caledonian Canal''' stretch for eight miles between Loch Dochfour (the pool at the north end of Loch Ness) and Beauly Firth, the reach of sea just below Inverness. It's a pleasant picturesque stroll, or bike-ride if you're trying to reach the loch. Going upstream from town centre, follow either river bank up to the wooded Ness Islands. Above there, be on the west bank (passing the Botanic Gardens) to come onto the canal towpath, which is the best route upstream. * {{do | name=Eden Court Theatre | alt= | url=https://eden-court.co.uk/ | email= | address=Bishops Road IV3 5SA | lat=57.473 | long=-4.2308 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 234234 (box office) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=A theatre, arts and cinema venue. They host Under Canvas music festival throughout July and August. }} * '''Vue Cinema''' is on the big retail park east of town. [[File:Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC - panoramio.jpg | thumb | 300px | Super Caley went ballistic in 2000 ]] * '''Football:''' {{marker | name=[https://ictfc.com/ Inverness Caledonian Thistle] | type=do | lat=57.4953 | long=-4.2168 }} went into administration in Oct 2024, but continue to play soccer in Scottish League One, the third tier. Their home ground Caledonian Stadium (capacity 7500) is off the last A9 exit before Kessock Bridge. In Feb 2000 Caley's shock 3-1 away cup victory over Celtic inspired a legendary headline in ''The Sun'': "Super Caley Go Ballistic, Celtic Are Atrocious". : '''Clachnacuddin''' play in Highland League, the fifth tier, at Grant Street Park. * '''Rugby :''' [https://www.highlandrugbyclub.com/ Highland RFC] play rugby union in National League One, the amateur game's second tier in Scotland. They play at Canal Park, two miles upriver. * '''Dolphin-spotting:''' boat trips run Apr-Oct from Inverness Marina. The main operator is [https://dolphinspirit.co.uk/ Dolphin Spirit]. They run trips in conventional motor boats, and Rib-rides that are wet and bouncy but cover more of the area. To see dolphins from shore, best cross to the Black Isle and stand at Chanonry Point as the tide starts to come in. * '''Boat-trips on [[Loch Ness]]:''' [https://www.jacobite.co.uk/ Jacobite Cruises] are based in Inverness and sail the north end of the loch. Others sail from [[Drumnadrochit]] and [[Fort Augustus]]. * '''Look up your ancestors:''' [https://www.highlifehighland.com/highland-archive-centre/ Highland Archive Centre] is in Bught Park near the Botanic Garden, open M Tu Th 10AM-12:30PM, 2-4:30PM. * '''Golf:''' nearby courses are [https://www.invernessgolfclub.co.uk/ Inverness GC] near Raigmore Hospital, [https://www.kingsgolfclubinverness.co.uk/ Kings] south along the river, and [https://fairwaysgolfcentreandrestaurant.com/ Loch Ness] or Fairways south edge of town. Torvean has closed and is being turned over to housing. * '''[[Great Glen Way]]''' is a long-distance hiking trail to [[Fort William]], 73 miles / 116 km. * '''[http://www.invernessmusicfestival.org/ Inverness Music Festival]''' is probably next held 5-15 March 2026, tbc. * '''[https://www.invernesshighlandgames.com/ Inverness Highland Games]''' are held on Bught Park. The next are on Saturday 12 July 2025. * '''[https://tartanheartfestival.com/ Tartan Heart Festival]''' is held at Belladrum south of Beauly, with the next on July 31 - 2 Aug 2025. * '''[https://lochnessmarathon.com/ Loch Ness Marathon]''' follows the minor roads along the east side of the loch from Fort Augustus to Inverness, with the next on Sunday 28 Sept 2025. ==Buy== The town's main shopping area runs from the '''[https://eastgateshopping.co.uk/ Eastgate Centre]''', a mall next to the station, through a pedestrian precinct down to the River Ness bridge. There's no limit to the number of tartan and Scottish souvenir shops you can find along the strip, plus the usual department stores and services. The '''Inverness Centre''' is a retail park off A96 two miles east of town. It has a Vue cinema, a Pizza Express and Nando's, a Holiday Inn, and Tesco; fill up on fuel here if you're going further into the Highlands. == Eat == [[File:Kessock Bridge 2.jpg | thumb | 300px | Kessock Bridge carries A9 to Black Isle ]] * '''[https://highlandfoodanddrinktrail.co.uk/ Highland Food & Drink Trail]''' is a line of takeaway food trucks on Ness Walk outside the cathedral. * {{eat | name=The Bakery | alt= | url=https://www.thebakeryinverness.co.uk/ | email= | address=72 Tomnahurich Street IV3 5DT | lat=57.4750 | long=-4.2333 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 418918 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 6AM-3PM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Popular local bakery with loaves, pies, sweet pastries, croissants and more. It's at the corner of Glenurquhart Rd, handy for the council offices, and for the B&B strip in case Mrs Macbeth's catering is parsimonious. }} * '''Indian''' cuisine includes Namaste Inbhir Nis in the Victorian market, Cinnamon near Eastgate Centre, [https://samsindian.com/ Sam's] on Church St, [http://www.rajahinverness.com/ Rajah] on Post Office Lane just off Church St, [https://mumbaithistle.co.uk/ Mumbai Thistle] on Academy St by the railway station, [https://mangroveinverness.co.uk/ Mangrove] further down that street, [http://www.shaplaindiantandoori.co.uk/ Shapla] by Ness Bridge and Love [https://lovedosa.co.uk/ Dosa] down Mealmarket Cl. * {{eat | name=Perk Cafe | alt=Perk Coffee & Doughnuts | url=https://www.perkcafe.co.uk/ | email= | address=36 Church Street IV1 1EH | lat=57.47873676605233 | long=-4.226526464107129 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M–W 8AM to 3PM, Th–Sa 8AM to 3PM & 4PM to 11:30PM, Su 9AM to 3PM & 4PM to 11:30PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-04-08 | content=serves coffee and doughnuts by day (daily until 3PM), martinis by night (Th-Su 4-11:30PM). }} * '''Heathmount Hotel''' half a mile east of the centre has good dining, see Sleep. * {{eat | name=Fig & Thistle | alt= | url=https://www.figandthistle.co.uk/ | email=figandthistleinfo@gmail.com | address=4a-6 Stephens Brae IV2 3JN | directions=south side of Eastgate Centre | lat=57.47835802094865 | long=-4.220851256239573 | phone=+44 1463 712422 | tollfree= | hours=Noon–10PM daily | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-04-08 | content= bistro serving modern Scottish dishes.}} * {{eat | name=Culture Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=11 Chapel Street IV1 1NA | lat=57.48096310558831 | long=-4.228888751388177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=W-Sa 10AM to 3PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-04-08 | content=Vegetarian cafe-deli. }} * {{eat | name=Mustard Seed | alt= | url=https://www.mustardseedrestaurant.co.uk/ | email= | address=16 Fraser Street IV1 1DW | lat=57.4788 | long=-4.2281 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 220220 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon-2:30PM, 5-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=This sounds Indian but it's modern European fare in a former church on the riverbank. }} * {{eat | name=Rocpool | alt= | url=https://rocpoolrestaurant.com | email= | address=1 Ness Walk IV3 5NE | lat=57.4767 | long=-4.2284 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 717274 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa noon-2:30PM, 6-10PM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Quality Scottish food in a contemporary setting. }} * {{eat | name=Contrast Brasserie | alt= | url=https://www.glenmoristontownhouse.com/contrast-restaurant | email= | address=21 Ness Bank IV2 4SF | lat=57.47283614265659 | long=-4.227357073096097 | directions=located within Glenmoriston Town House Hotel | phone=+44 1463 223777 | tollfree= | hours=M–Sa Noon to 2:30PM & 5PM to 10PM, Su 1PM to 10PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-04-08 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Number 27 | alt= | url=https://www.number27inverness.co.uk/ | email= | address= | lat=57.477036484051034 | long=-4.224229257142425 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 832824 | tollfree= | hours=M–Sa Noon to 10:30PM, Su 12:30PM to 10:30PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-04-08 | content=Small friendly restaurant at 27 Castle St serving trad Scots fare }} * {{eat | name=Cafe 1 | alt= | url=https://cafe1.net/ | email= | address=75 Castle Street IV2 3EA | lat=57.476120761212925 | long=-4.224453433875766 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 226200 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu 3-11PM, W Th noon-2:30PM, 5-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Good place for an early evening meal, gets great reviews. }} * {{eat | name=La Tortilla Asesina | alt=La Tortilla | url=https://www.latortillaasesina.co.uk | email= | address=99 Castle Street IV2 3EA | lat=57.47545049350617 | long=-4.224800190694802 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 709809 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-10PM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Tapas bar with rustic decor. }} * {{eat | name=Little Italy | alt= | url=https://www.littleitaly.org.uk/ | email= | address=8 Stephen's St IV2 3JN | lat=57.4788 | long=-4.2208 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 712963 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 5-9PM, F Sa noon-9PM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Cosy family-run restaurant, mainly serving pasta and pizza, and antipasti sharing platters. Daily lunch specials on blackboard. }} * {{eat | name=XOKO Bakehouse | alt= | url=https://www.xoko.co.uk/ | email=hola@xoko.co.uk | address=13 Bridge Street, IV1 1HG | lat= | long= | directions=on Bridge Street, opposite Primark | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu ― Su, 7AM - 5PM | price= | lastedit=2025-06-30 | content=A high quality bakehouse and coffee shop serving fresh food and pastries. }} == Drink == [[File:Armed Forces Day - Parade to Inverness Highland Games 2012 Scotland (Massed Pipe Bands) (7618399252).jpg | thumb | 300px | Parade to the Highland Games ]] * {{drink | name=Hootananny | alt= | url=https://www.hootananny.co.uk | email= | address=67 Church Street IV1 1ES | lat=57.479073 | long=-4.227239 | directions=by Albertaff House | phone=+44 1463 233651 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 5PM-1AM, F 5PM-3AM, Sa 2PM-3AM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Live Celtic music most nights. Good trad food and inexpensive. }} * {{drink | name=Black Isle Bar | alt= | url=https://www.blackislebrewery.com/visit-us/inverness-bar | email= | address=68 Church Street IV1 1EN | lat=57.479425 | long=-4.227278 | directions=by Abertaff House | phone=+44 1463 229920 | tollfree= | hours=Daily noon-midnight | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=A bar with rooms run by Black Isle Brewery. They have a dozen beers on tap from their own organic brewery and some others, and serve good pizza from a wood-fired oven. Family- and dog-friendly. }} * {{drink | name=The King's Highway | alt= | url=https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/pubs/the-kings-highway-inverness/ | email= | address=72 Church Street IV1 1EN | lat=57.479588 | long=-4.227458 | directions=block north of Victorian Market | phone=+44 1463 251800 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 7AM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Reliable JD Wetherspoon with decent meals and rooms. }} * {{drink | name=Walrus & Corkscrew | alt= | url=https://www.thewalrusandcorkscrew.co.uk/ | email= | address=105 Church Street IV1 1EY | lat=57.479928 | long=-4.228027 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 221237 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 11AM-11PM, Su M 3-11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Cosy wine bar with cheese, meat and veggie platters. }} * '''[https://www.uilebheist.com/ Uilebheist]''' is a distillery and brewery on the east riverbank a quarter mile south of the castle, in the former Glen Mhor Hotel. Tours are available but the whisky only goes on sale from March 2026. * {{drink | name=Black Isle Brewery | alt= | url=https://www.blackislebrewery.com/tours/ | email= | address=Munlochy IV8 8NZ | lat=57.5325 | long=-4.3025 | directions=A9 north to Black Isle | phone=+44 1463 811871 | tollfree= | hours=Tours daily 10AM-4PM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Independent brewery producing a range of organic beers, with bars in Inverness (above) and Fort William, plus rooms. }} * {{drink | name=Dores Inn | alt= | url=http://www.thedoresinn.co.uk/ | email= | address=Dores IV2 6TR | lat=57.382 | long=-4.3331 | directions=8 miles south of Inverness on B862 | phone=+44 1463 751203 | tollfree= | hours=W-Su noon-10PM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=On a warm summer's evening, this inn on the northeast shore of Loch Ness is a particularly pleasant place to linger over a beer. Good trad pub food. }} * '''See [[Dingwall]]''' for the Singleton Distillery at Muir of Ord 15 miles west. * Bairds Malt produce malt for the brewing industry but aren't themselves brewers. Dolphin Spirit is a disappointment if you were expecting craft gin, they go out on boats to see some overgrown fish. == Sleep == [[File:Ness islands footbridge and sculpture. - geograph.org.uk - 1029059.jpg | thumb | 300px | Ness islands ]] Inverness is a commercial and local government hub so it has lots of mid-range chain hotels for business travellers, mostly round the outskirts. Glenurquhart Road, which is the A82 south towards Loch Ness, is lined with small B&Bs and guesthouses. The [http://www.invernessguesthouseassociation.co.uk/ Inverness Guest House Association] has a selection of 24 properties, all of which have been graded 3, 4 or 5 stars by Visit Scotland or the AA. === Budget === * {{sleep | name=Black Isle Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.blackislebrewery.com/accommodation/black-isle-hostel | email= | address=47 Academy St IV1 1LP | lat=57.479828 | long=-4.226127 | directions=opposite railway station | phone=+44 1463 233933 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm £31 ppn | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Basic but comfy hostel run by Black Isle Brewery and open year-round. Very central, some street noise. }} * {{sleep | name=Inverness Youth Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.hostellingscotland.org.uk/hostels/inverness/ | email= | address=Victoria Drive IV2 3QB | lat=57.4797 | long=-4.2110 | directions=half a mile east of station | phone=+44 1463 231771 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm £45 ppn | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Large modern hostel open all year. Excellent facilities: internet, laundry, some small rooms en-suite. }} * {{sleep | name=Bazpackers | alt= | url=https://www.bazpackershostel.co.uk/ | email= | address=4 Culduthel Road IV2 4AB | lat=57.4748 | long=-4.2251 | directions=foot of lane to castle | phone=+44 1463 717663 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm £40 ppn | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Clean informal hostel in a Victorian house, open all year. There's also a self-catering apartment. }} * '''[http://invernessstudenthotel.com/ Inverness Student Hotel]{{cbignore}}''' is just south of Bazpackers. * {{sleep | name=Bught Park | alt= | url=http://www.invernesscaravanpark.com | email= | address=Bught Lane IV3 5SR | lat=57.4651 | long=-4.2387 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 236920 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Tent or caravan £25 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Camping and caravan site open Easter to mid-Sep. Cleanliness varies. It's a pleasant 20-min walk along the river to town centre. }} * '''[https://bunchrew-caravanpark.co.uk/ Bunchrew Caravan Park]''' is open Mar-Sept, double tent £13, caravan £25. It's 3 miles west of town on A862, next to upmarket Bunchrew House Hotel. === Mid-range === * {{sleep | name=Royal Highland Hotel | alt= | url=https://royalhighlandhotel.co.uk | email=info@royalhighlandhotel.co.uk | address=18 Station Square IV1 1LG | lat=57.479350 | long=-4.223703 | directions=at railway station | phone=+44 1463 231926 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £200 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Mid-range hotel opened in 1856 and still feels like a trad Highland railway hotel. Some street noise, but decent dining and service. }} * {{sleep | name=Dunhallin House | alt= | url=https://www.dunhallin.co.uk/ | email=info@dunhallin.co.uk | address=164 Culduthel Road IV2 4BH | lat=57.4547 | long=-4.2202 | directions=1½ miles S of centre | phone=+44 1463 220824 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Comfortable accommodation in a quiet setting, no children. The owners are friendly and helpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Moyness House | alt= | url=https://www.moyness.co.uk/ | email= | address=6 Bruce Gardens IV3 5EN| lat=57.47424542203266 | long=-4.235136729976424 | directions=off A82 | phone=+44 1463 236624 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=4:30PM | checkout=10:30AM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-04-08 | content=Restful small B&B, open Feb-Dec. }} * {{sleep | name=Park Guest House | alt= | url=https://parkguesthouseinverness.co.uk/ | email= | address=51 Glenurquhart Road IV3 5PB | lat=57.469486 | long=-4.237094 | directions=100 yards north of Avalon | phone=+44 1463 231858 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £80 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Hospitable trad B&B in a substantial ivy-clad Victorian villa. }} * {{sleep | name=Avalon Guest House | alt= | url=https://www.inverness-loch-ness.co.uk/ | email= | address=79 Glenurquhart Road IV3 5PB | lat=57.4681 | long=-4.2384 | directions=a mile south of centre on A82 | phone=+44 1463 239075 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=The rooms are beautiful and the owners are friendly and helpful. Assistance dogs only. }} * {{sleep | name=Mercure Inverness Hotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/8351/index.en.shtml | email=info@mercureinverness.co.uk | address=Church Street IV1 1DX | lat=57.4783 | long=-4.2266 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 548111 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Doubles (room only) from £150 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Reliable mid-range chain hotel, very central, pricy for what you get. }} * {{sleep | name=Heathmount Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.heathmounthotel.com | email= | address=Kingsmills Road IV2 3JU | lat=57.4757 | long=-4.2171 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 235877 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £130 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Pleasant hotel with restaurant and bar half a mile east of town centre. }} * '''Mid-price chains:''' Premier Inn is on Huntly St on the west bank of the river and another just west of the canal bridge on A82. Best Western is on Ardross Terrace just south of Ness Bridge, Travelodge is by Fairways Golf Course on the south edge of town, Jury's Inn is at the junction of A9 and A96 on the northeast edge of town, and Holiday Inn Express is by the retail park on A96 two miles east of town. * '''Airport:''' see [[Culloden#Sleep]] for the Courtyard Hotel. === Splurge === [[File:Bunchrew House Hotel - geograph.org.uk - 867885.jpg | thumb | 300px | Bunchrew House ]] * {{sleep | name=Ness Walk Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.nesswalk.com/ | email= | address=12 Ness Walk IV3 5SQ | lat=57.4697 | long=-4.2311 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 215215 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £400 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Glowing reviews for this riverside hotel in a 19th-century mansion. }} * {{sleep | name=Glenmoriston Town House | alt= | url=https://www.glenmoristontownhouse.com/ | email= | address=20 Ness Bank IV2 4SF | lat=57.4728 | long=-4.2273 | directions= | phone=+44 1463 223777 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £130 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Smart riverside hotel with brasserie. }} * {{sleep | name=Bunchrew House | alt= | url=https://www.bunchrewhousehotel.com/ | email= | address=Bunchrew IV3 8TA | lat=57.4825 | long=-4.3006 | directions=3 miles west of city off A862 | phone=+44 1463 234917 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £200 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Wonderful country house hotel: ''bun craobh'' means "near the tree", which doesn't much help you find it. The original house of 1505 was tiny, then the present mansion was built in 1621 in baronial style. In 1745 its owners the Forbes backed the government against Bonnie Prince Charlie but received scant thanks and went bust. A happier development in the 19th century was that the bone manure factory closed down. The house passed to politician Sir Malcolm Rifkin (b 1946) who converted it into a hotel in 1986. It earns top scores from guests and is often a wedding venue. }} * {{sleep | name=Kingsmills Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.kingsmillshotel.com | email= | address=Culcabock Rd IV2 3LP | lat=57.4729 | long=-4.2071 | directions=a mile east of centre | phone=+44 1463 237166 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=Upscale hotel by the golf course, great reviews for comfort and service. }} == Connect == As of Aug 2024, the town has 5G from all UK carriers, and its approach roads have 4G. {{listing | name=Inverness Library | alt= | url=https://www.highlifehighland.com/libraries/inverness-library/ | email= | address=Farraline Park IV1 1NH | lat= | long= | directions=behind bus station | phone=+44 1349 781370 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9AM-6:30PM, Sa 9AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content=This offers internet access, but you need to register for this and other facilities. }} == Go next == * [[Culloden]] is best known for the battlefield where Bonny Prince Charlie's forces were shattered in 1746. It also has the Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age burial site. * [[Nairn]] is the closest beach resort. Nearby is the extensive, well-preserved Fort George. * [[Loch Ness]] starts 8 miles south, and stretches for 23 miles. The main road and facilities are along the west bank, with [[Drumnadrochit]] the largest centre. * [[Cairngorms National Park]] covers a wide tract of highland country. The most accessible part from Inverness is Cairngorm mountain itself above [[Aviemore]], a ski resort with a funicular railway. * [[Fort William]] is close to Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain, and to Nevis Range ski and mountain resort. * North are the wilds of [[Ross and Cromarty]] and [[Caithness and Sutherland]]. If you get all the way to [[Thurso]] you can take a ferry to the Orkneys, and from there to Shetland. * [[North Coast 500]] is a 500-mile (800-km) road circuit of those regions, and Inverness is the usual start and finish point. {{routebox | image1=UK road A9.svg | imagesize1=35 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Thurso]] | minorl1=[[Tain]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Perth (Scotland) | Perth]] | minorr1=[[Aviemore]] | image2=UK road A82.svg | imagesize2=40 | directionl2=SW | majorl2=[[Fort William]] | minorl2=[[Drumnadrochit]] | directionr2=NE | minorr2= | majorr2=END | image3=UK road A96.svg | imagesize3=40 | directionl3=W | majorl3=END | minorl3= | directionr3=E | majorr3=[[Aberdeen]] | minorr3=[[Culloden]] }} {{geo|57.4717|-4.2254}} {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|The Great Glen and Strathspey}} hoz6enwgmc7d6so32h7vy8w8dmdg3af 0 15869 5091207 5089907 2025-07-11T05:50:13Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Climate */ 1) grammar: (in)definite article conflict; 2) Missing space between 2 sentences 5091207 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Jerusalem banner Panorama.jpg|caption=The Old City of Jerusalem (foreground) and West Jerusalem, as viewed from the Mount of Olives}} {{Warningbox|Many governments advise reconsidering travel to Israel due to the volatile security situation, armed conflict, civil unrest and terrorism. Travel to Gaza and the West Bank, and to regions of Israel bordering Gaza, the West Bank and Lebanon, is also highly discouraged. On 13 June 2025, Israel launched airstrikes against [[Iran]], and Iran retaliated. A state of emergency has been declared, which bans mass gatherings and closed Israeli airspace to civilian flights. The security situation may deteriorate quickly with little or no notice. See [[Israel#Rocket attacks]] and [[War zone safety]]. |australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/middle-east/israel-and-palestinian-territories |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/israel-the-west-bank-and-the-gaza-strip |hk=https://www.sb.gov.hk/eng/ota/note-Israel.html |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/israel-and-occupied-palestinian-territories |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/israel |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/israel-west-bank-and-gaza-travel-advisory.html |india=https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/37777/Travel_advisory_for_Iran_and_Israel#:~:text=In%20view%20of%20the%20prevailing,or%20Israel%20till%20further%20notice. |lastedit=2025-06-21 }} '''Israel''' ([[Hebrew]]: מדינת ישראל ''Medinat Yisra'el''; Arabic: دولة إسرائيل) is a small yet diverse [[Middle East]]ern country. The modern State of Israel was established in 1948 as a homeland for the Jewish people, but the region contains thousands of years of history for many peoples and religions in addition to the Jews. Israel is considered part of the '''[[Holy Land]]''' (together with areas of [[Jordan]], [[Egypt]] and the [[Palestinian territories]]), and of the [[Levant]] and in ancient history of the [[Fertile Crescent]]. The three major [[Abrahamic religion]]s of [[Judaism]], [[Christianity]] and [[Islam]], as well as the [[Baha'i Faith]], have strong ties to this land, and their holy and historic sites are major destinations for pilgrims and tourists from around the world. The Israeli population is about 74% Jews, 21% Arabs, and 5% non-Arab Christians and others. Most of the Jews are descended from Olim ("returnees" from the Jewish Diaspora), and their diverse origins (Russian, German, Moroccan, Yemeni, and Ethiopian, to name a few of the prominent ones) can be seen in various aspects of modern Israeli culture. In contrast to its long ancient history, Israel is a highly urbanized, economically developed, first-world society. It remains in conflict with the Palestinians and some of its other Arab neighbors. Since 1967, Israel has controlled most of the West Bank (often called "Judea and Samaria" in Israel) as well as the [[Golan Heights]]. Israel has annexed [[East Jerusalem]] and the Golan, but most other countries, except the [[United States of America|United States]], reject the annexation, and consider these areas and the West Bank (which Israel did not annex, and Israeli law does not apply to the area) to be occupied Arab territories. Wikivoyage takes no stance on these political issues, but notes that in practice, current visitors to these areas will need Israeli visas and permits. ==Regions== Israel possesses a number of diverse regions, with landscapes varying between coast, mountain, forest, and desert, with just about everything in between. On a single winter day, for example, you could go skiing at the Hermon mountain on the Golan Heights, and then sunbathe next to the Dead Sea. The metropolitan areas of [[Jerusalem]] and [[Tel Aviv]] form very much their own regions; from north to south, however, Israel's regions are as follows: {{Regionlist | regionmap=Israel_map_Hebrew_WV_English.png | regionmaptext=Regions of Israel | regionmapsize=300px | region1name=Galilee | region1color=#6698bb | region1items=[[Western Galilee]], [[Upper Galilee]], [[Lower Galilee]], [[Galilee Panhandle]], and [[Sea of Galilee region]] | region1description=A hilly forested region, known for its beautiful landscapes and religious history. The Galilee is composed of five sub regions - the Western Galilee (the northern coastal plain), the Upper Galilee (characterized by mountains, the highest of which is Mount Meron), the Lower Galilee (characterized by relatively low hills separated by valleys), the Galilee Panhandle (in the far northeast), and the Sea of Galilee (the largest freshwater lake in Israel). | region2name=[[Carmel Range]], [[Jezreel Valley]] and [[Beit Shean Valley|Beit She'an Valley]] | region2color=#A4C28D | region2description=From west to the east; the '''Carmel Range''' extends from the Mediterranean Sea to the south-east, containing various towns and villages, as well as [[Haifa]], the third largest city in Israel; the '''Jezreel Valley''' is a large valley bounded by the Lower Galilee in the north and the mountains of Samaria in the south; and the '''Beit She'an Valley''' lies between the Gilboa mountain range and the Jordan River. | region3name=[[Israeli Coastal Plain]] | region3color=#B383B3 | region3items=The Sharon plain, Gush Dan and the Southern Coastal Plain | region3description=A planar region which stretches along the Mediterranean coast which is the most developed part of the country and in which about 70% of Israel's population lives. This region is characterized by sandy shores and Mediterranean climate. This region contains many cities, towns and villages, including the [[Tel Aviv]] urban area, which is the largest urban area in Israel. | region4name=[[Jerusalem Hills]] | region4color=#6C8CB0 | region4description=A mountainous region in the center of the country, which is a sub-region of ​​the Judaean Mountains. This region includes Israel's capital, [[Jerusalem]], which is the largest city in the country. | region5name=[[Shfela]] | region5color=#CA7E60 | region5description=The fertile, hilly hinterland bounded by the Coastal Plain in the west, the Judaean Mountains in the east, Samaria in the north, and the Negev in the south. | region6name=[[Dead Sea (Israel and the West Bank)|Dead Sea Valley]] | region6color=#D4B139 | region6description=The Dead Sea, which receives its water from the Jordan River, is the lowest point on earth (427 meters below sea level as of early 2013). The northern half of the western Dead Sea Valley lies in the [[West Bank]] and thus Palestine. However, it is part of Area C and therefore under full Israeli control. | region7name=[[Negev|The Negev]], Southern Judaean Mountains, Southern [[Judaean Desert]], and the Arava Valley | region7color=#C59A5A | region7description=The Negev region is a desert area covering much of the south of Israel; sites include the [[Mitzpe Ramon|Ramon Crater]]. The southern parts of the Judaean Mountains region and the Judaean Desert region (the northern parts are on the West Bank) are between the West Bank and the Negev regions. The Arava Valley is the section of the [[Great Rift Valley]] that is between the Dead Sea in the North and the Gulf of Eilat in the South and forms part of the border between Israel to the west and Jordan to the east. }} ===Disputed territories=== {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Golan Heights]] | region1color=#8E908D | region1description=Mountainous area north-east of the [[Sea of Galilee region]]. Occupied in 1967 by Israel, unilaterally annexed in 1981, but claimed by [[Syria]]. The annexation of the Golan is only recognized by the [[United States of America|United States]], and is not recognized by the United Nations. Israeli law applies in the region. | region2name=[[West Bank]] and [[Gaza Strip]] | region2color=#8E908D | region2description=Two physically separate territories, the [[West Bank]] to the east bordering the Jordan River, and the [[Gaza Strip]] in the southwest along the Mediterranean coast. Not recognized internationally as part of any country. The West Bank receives government services (security, medical service, etc.) by Israel, the Palestinian Authority, or a combination, depending on the exact location as a result of the Oslo Accords. The Gaza Strip is controlled by Hamas. }} ==Cities== [[File:WikiAir IL-13-06 035 - Old City (Jerusalem).JPG|320px|right|thumb|[[Jerusalem/Old City|The Old City of Jerusalem]]]] <!-- Please do not change this list before consensus on the Talk page! --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Jerusalem]]|wikidata=Q1218}} – the capital and largest city of Israel; a diverse city sacred for millennia to the three Abrahamic religions (Jews, Christians and Muslims). It has an abundance of historic sites from five millennia. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tel Aviv]]|wikidata=Q33935}} – the center of Israel's economy and modern culture, this vibrant city is known as the "White City" for its Bauhaus architecture. It is home to beautiful historic architecture in its Old Jaffa district, and towering skyscrapers, sandy beaches, bustling markets, a vibrant LGBT scene and the largest nightclub scene of the Middle East. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Akko]]|wikidata=Q126084}} (Acre) – an ancient town with a historic port and the most sacred Baha'i site. Its coastal old town is particularly beautiful * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Beer Sheva|Be'er Sheva]]|wikidata=Q41843}} – the de facto capital of the Negev region * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Eilat]]|wikidata=Q134762}} – the 'Goa of the Middle East', Israel's window on the Red Sea, a vibrant resort city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Haifa]]|wikidata=Q41621}} – the largest city in northern Israel, this city possesses beautiful seaside views from its peak on Mount Carmel, as well as a rich heritage as a major port city. The city is home to historic Ottoman and Mediterranean-style architecture, with red rooftops, cobbled streets and palm trees. It is home to the ornate Baha'i World Center (a {{UNESCO}}), and its picturesque gardens, which are considered the city’s major attraction. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nazareth]]|wikidata=Q430776}} – the hometown of Jesus, now the largest Arab city in Israel * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Safed]]|wikidata=Q188336}} (Tzfat) &ndash; a fascinating mountaintop city filled with artists and mystics, home to ARI school of Kabbalah * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tiberias]]|wikidata=Q151920}} &ndash; a modern resort town with an ancient background, on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee ==Other destinations== [[File:Vista general de Masada.jpg|250px|right|thumb|[[Masada]]]] [[File:Haifa-Bahai world center front.jpg|thumb|Front of the Bahàì World Center, in the northern city of [[Haifa]]]] [[File:Hermonsite1.jpg|thumbnail|[[Mount Hermon|Hermon]] Ski resort (operating only during the winter)]] <!-- *** Please do not change this section before consensus on the Talk page --> * {{marker|name=[[Jerusalem/Old City|Old City of Jerusalem]]|wikidata=Q213274}} – a historic walled area within the modern city of [[Jerusalem]] split into four quarters: the Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian. Tourists of different religions and nations come from around the world to visit its holy sites, which include the Dome of the Rock, the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. A [[UNESCO World Heritage site]]. * {{marker|name=[[Akko|Old City of Acre]]|wikidata=Q126084}} – One of the oldest port cities in the world, a [[UNESCO World Heritage site]] * {{marker|name=[[Sea of Galilee region]]|wikidata=Q126982}} – the home of Jesus of Nazareth and the largest freshwater lake in the country * {{marker|name=[[Dead Sea (Israel)|Dead Sea]]|wikidata=Q23883}} – a sea of hypersalinated water that keeps people afloat and the lowest point on Earth * {{marker|name=[[Jezreel Valley]]|wikidata=Q763829}} – an extensive inland valley, largely rural, extending inland from east of Haifa to the Jordan Valley * {{marker|name=[[Judaean Desert]]|wikidata=Q2046004}} – an arid landscape with an array of hills, canyons, and hidden historic sites * {{marker|name=[[Haifa#Q494706|Bahá'í Gardens and World Center]]|lat=32.81378|long=34.98655}} – center of the [[Baha'i Faith|Bahá'í Faith]], home to the Shrine of the Báb and Terraces, in the northern city of [[Haifa]] === Prominent national parks === * {{marker|name=[[Masada]]|wikidata=Q186312}} – high on a plateau above the Dead Sea, the scene of the Zealots' last stand against the might of Rome. A [[UNESCO World Heritage site]]. * {{marker|name=[[Sde Boker#Q1339871|Ein Avdat]]|lat=30.826389|long=34.766389}} – beautiful steep canyon and a popular hiking spot * {{marker|name=[[Caesarea|Caesarea National Park]]|wikidata=Q1615560}} – an ancient Roman and Crusader city with well-preserved remains * {{marker|name=[[Beth Shean Valley]]|wikidata=Q2909317}} – the core of the north Jordan River valley * {{marker|name=[[Lower Galilee#Q1010980|Belvoir Fortress]]|lat=32.595556|long=35.521389}} – a Crusader fortress on a ridge in the eastern edge of the Galilee. * {{marker|name=[[Golan Heights#See|Nimrod Fortress]]|lat=33.252778|long=35.714722}} – remains of a medieval fortress in the northern Golan Heights, 800 meters above sea level. * {{marker|name=[[Rosh Haniqra]]|wikidata=Q1650601}} – spectacular caverns on Israel's Mediterranean coast in the [[Western Galilee]] in the north of Israel, near the northern border with Lebanon. === Prominent nature reserves === * {{marker|name=[[Mitzpe Ramon|Ramon Crater]]|wikidata=Q741793}} – 40&nbsp;km long crater-like landform in the middle of the Negev desert, the largest of three similar craters found in Israel. Offers breathtaking desert vistas. * {{marker|name=[[Mount Hermon]]|wikidata=Q215471}} – The mountain is partly in Israel and partly in [[Syria]] and [[Lebanon]]. The Israeli summit of the mountain is 2,224m above sea level and is the highest location in the country. The total area of the Hermon nature reserve is 76,250 hectares. Most of the nature reserve is in a restricted military area (except for Hermon Ski resort and the Banias springs area at the slopes of the mountain which are popular visited destination). * {{marker|name=[[Carmel Range]]|wikidata=Q185318}} – a forested hilly region along the Mediterranean coast, southeast of Haifa See also [[#Do]] for parks and reserves. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationIsrael.png}} [[File:A view from masada 15 on roman siege camp.jpg|alt=A Roman siege camp on the mountain next to Masada|thumb|329x329px|A Roman siege camp on the mountain next to [[Masada]]]] ===History=== ====Until the Middle Ages==== [[File:Tel_dan_inscription.JPG|180px|thumb|right|The Tel Dan Stele, dating from circa the 9th century BCE, was discovered in Tel Dan and is the oldest archaeological artifact to mention the House of David outside of the Bible]] While the current '''state''' of Israel is a relatively new country founded in 1948, the "'''land''' of Israel" has a long, complex history stretching back thousands of years to the beginnings of human civilization. It's been invaded by virtually every Old World empire including the Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Crusaders, Mongols, Ottomans, French (with Napoleon as general), and British. It is the birthplace of Judaism and Christianity, and also contains sacred sites of Islam and the Baha'i Faith. [[File:Second Temple.jpg|290px|thumb|The model of the Second Temple at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem]] Israel has been inhabited for tens of thousands of years, with Neanderthal remains from the region dating back 50,000 years. Its strategic location serving as a land bridge from [[Asia]] to [[Egypt]] and the rest of [[Africa]] made Israel an ideal target for conquerors through the ages. The first nation to conquer the land was [[Egypt]], in the 16th century BC. In the Fifth Year of Pharaoh Merenptah (roughly 1208 BC) Israel is mentioned on a stele as having been "laid waste" (likely a propaganda exaggeration), which constitutes the first mention of Israel known to history. Incidentally that same year is also the date of an inscription on behalf of the same Pharaoh mentioning the "Sea Peoples" who are often blamed for the virtual collapse of urban and writing society in the eastern Mediterranean of the time, ushering in - among other things - the "Greek Dark Ages" and the collapse of the Hittite Empire. In approximately 1000 BC, an Israelite kingdom was set up under King Saul. According to the Biblical account, King Saul was succeeded by kings David and Solomon, but after Solomon's death the kingdom split in two (though many historians contend that the kingdoms of Israel and Judah were never united but instead were always rival kingdoms). The northern kingdom was conquered by Assyria in 722 BC, and the southern kingdom by Babylonia in 586 BC. Both conquests were accompanied by an exile of the Israelites from their land. Several decades later, the Persian empire conquered Babylonia, and allowed the Jewish exiles to return and reestablish a province centered around Jerusalem. The Persian empire was in turn conquered in ~330 BC by [[Alexander the Great]]. In ~166 BC, the Maccabees rebelled against the Seleucid Greeks and established an independent Jewish state, but this state was conquered in 63 BC by the [[Roman Empire]]. Around 30 CE, Jesus of [[Nazareth]] began his ministry in the Galilee. Periodic Jewish revolts against the Romans had some temporary success, but eventually led to destruction and exile for the Jews. The Roman/Byzantine Empire continued to rule the area until the 7th century, when the area was conquered (very briefly) by the [[Persian Empire|Persians]], and then by the [[Islamic Golden Age|Muslim Arabs]]. In the [[Crusades]] (11th-13th centuries), Christians were temporarily able to conquer the Holy Land from the Muslims. After 1290, when the Crusaders were expelled by Saladin, the land was ruled by different Muslim rulers. The last of those Muslim rulers was [[Ottoman Empire|Ottoman Turkey]], which was defeated in the [[First World War]]. After the war, the area that is now Israel, the Palestinian Territories and Jordan became the "League of Nations Mandate for Palestine", intended in part as a homeland for Jewish people. ====Since World War I==== {{seealso|Holocaust remembrance}} During the 1920s, the British were handed a mandate to prepare the region for a future Jewish state. Arab pressure led to the eastern part of the mandate being split off into the Arab kingdom of Transjordan (now [[Jordan]]) and declared off-limits for Jews. The first two major waves of modern Jewish immigration were in 1882 and the early 1900s, under Ottoman rule, followed by refugees from Nazi Germany in the 1930s and 1940s. Before 1948, immigration was almost exclusively by Ashkenazi Jews, who spoke mostly Yiddish and/or the national languages of their countries of residence. Initially, religious Jews were largely opposed to the idea of Zionism, and as such the first waves of immigrants were dominated by idealistic but secular Jews. While several Arab leaders and individuals welcomed Jewish immigration to develop the largely agricultural land, starting in the 1920s the Arab majority was vocally hostile to Zionism. Both Zionist and non-Zionist Jews were attacked during the riots of 1929 and the later Arab revolt of 1936-1939. During World War II, Haj Amin al-Husseini, the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, openly allied with Nazi Germany and called for an Arab state with no Jews in it. The Jewish population formed several armed groups to defend themselves – the Haganah (precursor to the modern Israeli army) was the largest and most important, but there were also more violent and extremist offshoots like the Irgun. In 1939 the British decided to appease Arab radicals with the "White Paper", which severely limited Jewish immigration just as the Nazis were about to begin World War II. This was bitterly opposed by Zionists. When the British continued to prevent the immigration of Holocaust survivors after the war, Jewish underground groups became heavily involved in illegal immigration, and the more radical groups conducted violent attacks on the British government. After two years of growing violence between Jews, Arabs, and the British government, in the fall of 1947 the British decided to withdraw from the area. The UN recommended that the territory of Palestine be partitioned into separate Jewish and Arab states, which was agreed to by both the United States and the Soviet Union. The Jews accepted the plan, but the Arabs firmly rejected it. Nonetheless, on 14 May 1948, the Jews declared independence as the State of Israel. The Arabs responded with a military invasion. The Israelis won a decisive victory. As a result of the war, approximately 600,000 Arabs were displaced from the territory of the newly-proclaimed Jewish state. This event is known as the ''Nakba'' (lit. catastrophe) to Palestinians, and to Israelis as their War of Independence. A comparable number of Jews were displaced from Arab nations in the late 1940s and 1950s, and many of them settled in Israel. At first, France was Israel's most important ally and arms supplier, though Czechoslovakia had also been an important supplier of weapons up till 1949. Israel would participate in the Suez Crisis on the side of France and the United Kingdom in 1956, during which it would gain control of the [[Sinai]] Peninsula from [[Egypt]]. However, under American and Soviet pressure, Israel would be forced to withdraw from Sinai in 1957, though the agreement would also guarantee Israeli ships free passage through the Straits of Tiran. Further fighting continued over the next few decades, and in the Six-Day War of 1967 the Israelis won another decisive victory against the Arabs, during which it regained control of Sinai from Egypt, and also gained control of the [[Golan Heights]] from [[Syria]]. Despite urgent pleas by Israel asking Jordan not to attack (Israel had enjoyed a less belligerent relationship with Jordan than other Arab neighbors), King Hussein was ultimately convinced by Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser to do so. The Jordanian attack led to Israel quickly capturing East Jerusalem and the West Bank, leading to the ongoing and controversial situation in both places. In 1973, Anwar Sadat, who had succeeded the deceased Nasser as leader of Egypt, decided to launch a surprise attack on Israel during Yom Kippur, one of the highest holidays in Judaism. While the Israeli secret service had hints of an impending attack, Prime Minister Golda Meir decided not to launch a pre-emptive strike for fear of a negative reaction by other countries, particularly the U.S. Despite early gains by the Arab side, Israel ultimately gained the upper hand, aided by U.S. arms shipments which helped cement what is seen today as one of both countries' strongest and longest-lasting alliances. In 1979, a peace treaty was concluded between Israel and Egypt (with Sinai returned to Egypt) with American mediation, and in 1994, a similar peace treaty was signed with Jordan again with American mediation. Both agreements have held to this day. However, a peace process with Palestinian Arabs that began in the early 1990s failed in 2000, and little progress has been seen since then. In the 21st century, other actors than the U.S. have tried to mediate in the conflict, but neither the EU nor the Arab League have had more luck than U.S. mediation. Israel normalized relations with the [[United Arab Emirates]] and [[Bahrain]] in 2020 with U.S. mediation, making them the first Gulf states to establish diplomatic relations with Israel. In the same year, Israel also normalized relations with [[Sudan]] with U.S. mediation - the first peace deal with a country that had actually fought a war with Israel since the Jordan peace deal. In December 2020, [[Morocco]] became the sixth Arab nation, and second North African nation to normalise ties with Israel. Israel remains officially at war with neighboring Syria and Lebanon, and has similar hostilities with the Hamas organization which controls the [[Gaza Strip]]. However, these borders are usually quiet – infrequently shells or rockets will be fired across them, and on rare occasions a full-scale conflict will break out (for example, in 2014 and 2023–2024). There are also occasional cases of individual violent attacks between Israelis and West Bank Palestinians, who have significant interaction in the West Bank and Jerusalem. Although it's in Asia, due to hostility from the Arab countries, Israel participates in European rather than Asian regional bodies. ===Economy=== [[File:Downtown Haifa including the port and the sail tower.jpg|thumb|300px|upright|Downtown Haifa, including the port and the sail tower]] Israel has a technologically advanced market economy with substantial government participation. It depends on imports of crude oil, grains, raw materials and military equipment. Despite limited natural resources, Israel has intensively developed its agricultural and industrial sectors since the 1980s. Cut diamonds, high-technology equipment, aircraft, high-tech defense systems, chemicals and chemical products, machinery and equipment, transport equipment, rubber, plastics, textiles and services in various fields are the leading exports. Large reserves of offshore natural gas have been discovered since 2009. For many years Israel posted sizable current account deficits, which were covered by large transfer payments from abroad and by foreign loans. However, tight fiscal policy and high growth rates led Israel to a budget surplus. Roughly half of the government's foreign debt is owed to the U.S., which is its major source of economic and military aid. Israel's economy grew rapidly in the 1990s due to immigration from the former USSR, the opening of new markets at the end of the Cold War, the optimism of the peace process, and the dot-com boom. However, in 2000 the combination of a second intifada and the dot-com bust led to a severe recession. Since 2004 the economy has resumed growing, and Israel was one of the world's most resilient economies during the 2008 "Great Recession". From the 2010s, Israel’s economy has grown rapidly, largely due to the country’s high-tech industries. Today, Israel is a developed country and in 2022 has a GDP per capita similar to the European Union average. The cost of living – especially in big cities like Tel Aviv – is surprisingly high and there is a long-standing debate about the problem of economic emigration. ===Society=== The most obvious division in Israel's society is between Jews – who make up 75% of the population in Israel proper and 15%–40% in areas captured by Israel during the Six-Day War (West Bank, East Jerusalem and the [[Golan Heights]]) – and non-Jews (mostly Arab Palestinian citizens of Israel), who make up nearly all of the rest. In addition, some 350,000 people who emigrated to Israel from the former Soviet Union are not considered Jews according to the standards of ''halakha'' (Jewish law), though most have some Jewish ancestry and they largely identify with the Jewish mainstream. In terms of religious affiliation, 77% of Israelis are Jewish, 16% are Muslim, 4% are Christian Arabs, and 2% are Druze (a Muslim offshoot considered heretical by mainstream Islam). There are also deep divisions within Jewish society. First is the cultural division between the 'Ashkenazim', whose ancestors came from communities that developed over hundreds of years in Central and Eastern Europe, who dominated statebuilding in Israel's first decades as a state, and were traditionally considered wealthier and better connected politically (particularly those from Germany and other central or northern European countries), and the 'Sephardim' and 'Mizrahim', who immigrated from the Balkans, Middle East, Yemen and North Africa. Sephardi and Mizrahi immigrants from Europe tend to match the socioeconomic profile of Ashkenazim. However, the divide between these ethnic groups has greatly narrowed, and intermarriage has become common. Massive immigration of Ethiopian Jews in the 1980s and Russian-speaking Jews in the 1990s has added additional notable demographics to Israel's population. Despite the majority of the world's Jews being Ashkenazim and despite Zionism initially being largely an Ashkenazi phenomenon, these days there are more Mizrahim/Sephardim in Israel than Ashkenazim, and Mizrahi/Sephardi culture is by far culturally dominant in today’s Israel. Further, marriage between Jewish ethnic groups has increased year-over-year in Israel, and a plurality of Israeli Jews today are of mixed Jewish backgrounds (for example, it's common for someone to be descended from Polish Jews on one side of their family, and Tunisian Jews on the other). While ethnic divisions have weakened as the native-born population has increased, religious tensions between 'secular' and 'Orthodox' Jews have increased. The spectrum ranges from the stringently Orthodox 'Haredim' (who form only 9% of the population but wield a disproportionate amount of power, thanks to Israel's fractious coalition politics), through 10% who are 'religious' (similar to 'Modern Orthodox' outside Israel), 15% 'traditional-religious' and 23% 'traditional' to 43% 'secular'. While secular and traditional Jews are widespread throughout all of Israel, Orthodox Jews tend to be concentrated in some cities, such as [[Jerusalem]], [[Bnei Brak]], and [[Ashdod]], while [[Tel Aviv]] is known for being one of the most socially liberal cities in the world, on par with major American and Western European cities. Despite the common perception of religious Jews being more ardent Zionists and secular Jews being more open to "land for peace" deals with the Palestinians, ''Ultra''-Orthodox Jews (a term rejected as pejorative by many) are actually largely opposed to the current Israeli state and some consider Zionism blasphemous as they believe that only the Messiah can restore Israeli statehood. On the other hand, large groups of Russian-speaking or Mizrachi Jews are relatively secular but vote for parties generally considered to fall into the "hawkish" camp and are opposed to the principle of "land for peace" and highly skeptical of negotiations with Hamas, Fatah or those neighbors with whom Israel does not maintain official diplomatic relations. Jewish travellers from the English-speaking world may affiliate with non-Orthodox Jewish religious movements such as Reform/Liberal, Reconstructionist, and Masorti/Conservative. However, travellers should be aware that while these movements do have a presence in Israel, they are dwarfed by secular Jews and the Orthodox; institutional support for organized non-Orthodox religious life is minimal. In any case, if a traveller wishes to (e.g.) attend Shabbat services at a synagogue or at a family’s house, they should do advance planning and research, or at least join a local contact person to help with the little details (where to sit, when to come, what’s expected etc). ===Holidays=== [[File:Yom Kippur on Highway 20 Tel-Aviv.jpg|thumb|Cyclists ride down a deserted motorway in Tel Aviv on Yom Kippur]] [[File:Independence Day Tel Aviv 2008.jpg|thumb|Fireworks celebrating Independence day]] ==== Shabbat ==== In Israel, the workweek is from '''Sunday to Thursday'''. Friday is a day when most Israelis don't work, and the street and the markets in the Jewish cities during Friday will be more crowded than usual. On Friday, shops, markets, and Kosher restaurants close between 14:00 and 16:00, and public transportation (except East Jerusalem and Nazareth) usually ends on Fridays around 16:00 and restarts on Saturday around 18:00 in the winter or 21:00 in the summer. This is because of Shabbat (the sabbath), which begins Friday afternoon around sunset, and ends Saturday around sunset, though many places do not reopen/renew service until Sunday morning. The same holds true for major Jewish or national holidays. This is critical if you rely on the bus or train to explore the country or go to/from the airport (planes do fly on Shabbat, except for El Al airline). So plan your itinerary accordingly. Sherut (shared minibus taxis) will often operate on Shabbat, and can be used for intercity travel if you must travel between Friday evening and Saturday evening. ==== Public holidays ==== Different levels of activity stop in Israel depending on the festival or holiday, and different areas will see different levels of activity on these days. Public transportation usually stops completely on most holidays. Holidays in Israel follow the Jewish calendar, which means that the Gregorian date will vary from year to year although tending to fall within the same 6-week period. In the Jewish tradition, a new day begins at sunset, meaning that Jewish holidays begin on the eve of the official date (not at midnight). A list of Gregorian dates matched with the National holidays and Jewish holidays can be found at the [https://info.goisrael.com/en/holidays-in-israel holidays section of the "GoIsrael" site] or at [https://www.hebcal.com/ Hebcal]. A more elaborate list of Jewish holidays and dates can be found at the [http://www.chabad.org/holidays/default.htm Jewish holidays section of the Chabad site], although some of the holidays mentioned there are scarcely celebrated or have no influence on day-to-day activities. Holidays on which stores and public transportation are closed (similar to Shabbat) are marked with a plus sign (+): *+ {{listing | name=Rosh Hashanah | alt=Jewish New Year | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Rosh Hashanah | wikidata=Q131028 | content=falls between 5 September and 5 October. It is two days long. }} *+ {{listing | name=Yom Kippur | alt=Day of Atonement | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Yom Kippur | wikidata=Q132994 |lastedit=2019-10-08| content=falls between 14 September and 14 October. The holiest day in the Jewish Calendar on which EVERYTHING comes to a halt: all businesses, banking, shopping, entertainment, restaurants, '''public and private''' traffic, etc. Children on bicycles, rollerblades, and skateboards flood the streets of secular towns. Emergency vehicles have limited mobility. Do not drive a car in Jewish areas on Yom Kippur - you are likely to run over kids who are playing in the street. }} *+ {{listing | name=Sukkot | alt=Feast of Tabernacles/Booths | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sukkot | wikidata=Q182242 | content=falls between 19 September and 19 October, and lasts 7 days. Only the first day is a national holiday with stores and public transportation closed, but some disruption occurs during the other days. }} *+ {{listing | name=Shemini Atzeret | alt=Simchat Torah | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Shemini Atzeret | wikidata=Q932711 | content=falls between 26 September and 26 October; it is effectively the 8th day of Sukkot. Street festivals and dancing are common in most cities and towns on the preceding evening. }} * {{listing | name=Yitzhak Rabin's Remembrance Day | alt=Yom Hazikaron le Yitzhak Rabin | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q12407922 | content=falls between 25 October and 9 November. It is a memorial day. Also, on the Saturday adjacent to 4 November a memorial rally is held on Rabin square in Tel Aviv, and other locations. }} * {{listing | name=Hanukkah | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hanukkah | image=Chanukkah2007 pic (1)c.JPG | wikidata=Q130881 | content=falls between 27 November and 27 December, and lasts 8 days. It is celebrated by lighting candles and eating jelly doughnuts, ''sufganiot''. }} * {{listing | name=Purim | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Purim | wikidata=Q180115 | content=falls between 24 February and 26 March (outside Jerusalem). Children and adults dress in costumes and street parades are common on this day. In Jerusalem, Purim is celebrated one day later than in the rest of Israel and is officially known as '''Shushan Purim'''. }} *+ {{listing | name=Pesach | alt=Passover | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Passover | wikidata=Q121393 | content=is seven days long; the first day falls between 26 March and 25 April. (Only the first and last days are national holidays with stores and public transportation closed, however there may be some disruption during the intermediate days.) No leavened bread or grain products are sold or served in most places during this week (including beer and some alcohols). On the evening after Passover ends, the custom of "Mimouna" is celebrated, involving hospitality and traditional home-made cuisine. }} * {{listing | name=Yom HaShoah | alt=Holocaust Remembrance Day; Yom HaZikaron LaShoah VeLaGevurah | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Yom HaShoah | wikidata=Q309530 | content=falls between 7 April and 7 May. A memorial sirens sound at 10:00; the entire country observes 2 minutes of silence in memory of victims of the Holocaust. Restaurants and entertainment establishments are closed on this day and its eve. }} * {{listing | name=Yom HaZikaron | alt=Fallen Soldiers Remembrance Day; Yom HaZikaron LeHalaley Ma'archot Israel VeLenifga'ey Pe'ulot Ha'eiva | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Yom Hazikaron | wikidata=Q1539489 | content=falls between 14 April and 14 May. A memorial sirens sound on the eve (20:00) and in the morning (11:00); the entire country observes a silence in memory of its fallen soldiers and terror attack victims. }} *+ {{listing | name=Yom Ha-Atzmaut | alt=Independence Day | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Independence Day (Israel) | wikidata=Q952721 | content=falls between 15 April and 15 May. Large street festivals, city-wide parties and fireworks displays are held on the eve. The day is usually celebrated by sightseeing and picnicking. Yom Ha-Atzmaut always falls the day after Yom HaZikaron, and as the Jewish day traditionally begins and ends at sundown, the transition from sorrow to celebration on streets all around Israel as night falls is truly something special. }} * {{listing | name=Lag Ba'Omer | alt=33rd day of the 'Omer' | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lag BaOmer | image=Lag Ba'Omer bonfire Tel Aviv Israel.jpg | wikidata=Q748801 | content=bonfires are common on the eve. }} * {{listing | name=Yom Yerushalayim | alt=Jerusalem Day | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Jerusalem Day | wikidata=Q1472650 | content=parades and festivals occur in Jerusalem. }} *+ {{listing | name=Shavuot | alt=Pentecost | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Shavuot | wikidata=Q201196 | content=falls between 15 May and 14 June }} * {{listing | name=Tisha B'Av | alt=9th of Av fast | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tisha B'Av | wikidata=Q211349 | content=commemorates the destruction of the First and Second Temples. }} ===Electricity=== [[File:Israeli-type-H-plugs-and-socket.jpg|thumb|Israeli type plugs. Old type (flat prongs) on the left, new type (round prongs) on the right, and a ubiquitous hybrid socket that also accepts type C plugs]] The voltage in Israel is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The electric outlets used are type H and rarely Type C. Type H is a three-pronged standard unique to Israel, but most modern type H outlets can also accept type C European two-pronged plugs. In fact, most electronic devices in Israel use type C plugs. For more information on plug types, please see our [[Electrical systems]] article. ===Climate=== Summer in Israel (actually mid-June to mid-October) is characterized by high temperatures throughout the country, which will make staying outside unbearable, and you will only want to find yourself in the water, or in an air-conditioned place. It is very hot in the coastal areas even during the night. Winter (December, January, February), can be characterized by beautiful days with 20 degrees Celsius, or days of heavy rain. Mountainous areas, especially Jerusalem, are common with temperatures of less than 10 degrees Celsius. And on average, once a year it can snow in Jerusalem. Traveling to the desert on rainy days is dangerous due to the risk of flash floods. For these reasons, the months with the most travelers (excluding periods with security problems) are April, May, October and November. ===Visitor information === * [https://goisrael.com Go Israel] tourism information === See also === {{topicsin|Israel|0}} ==Talk== {{seealso|Hebrew phrasebook|Arabic phrasebook}} [[File:First Aid sign on an Israeli beach.jpg|thumb|upright|Multilingual sign on an Israeli beach]] The official language of Israel is '''Hebrew''', a language that was revived in the early 20th century, after having had a status similar to that of Latin among Catholics for over 2,000 years. Because the modern language is relatively new, it has no regional dialects. Hebrew is a relatively difficult language to learn and it is not necessary to learn it to get by. Nevertheless, here are some words and phrases worth knowing in Hebrew: * Shalom - Hello * Toda - Thank you. or "Toda Raba" for Thank you very much. * "Ani Lo Medaber (Medaberet for women) Ivrit" - I don't speak Hebrew. Israel has a significant '''Arab''' minority, comprising 20% ​​of the population. Some areas have Arab majorities; in the cities of Nazareth and Kafr Kanna, the entire population is Arab. Most Arabs speak a dialect similar to that of Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and the West Bank, with the exception of the Bedouins in the Negev Desert who speak a dialect similar to the population in the Sinai Peninsula. '''English''' is the most popular foreign language, and Israelis learn it in school from a young age. Almost everyone you meet on the street will be able to communicate with you in English. The main exception is Hasidic ("Haredi") Jews, who rarely learn English. English proficiency varies greatly; most university-educated Israelis can speak fairly good English, while working-class Israelis usually only speak basic English. But in general, almost everywhere in Israel there will be an English speaker nearby, who can help if the service provider does not know English. Most street and road signs (and many others) have English, in addition to Hebrew and Arabic names. Mass immigration from the former Soviet Union since the 1990s brought a large number of immigrants who speak '''Russian''', and it is the most widely spoken non-official language in Israel. There are approximately 1 million Russian speakers in Israel. ==Get in== If you are Jewish and aged 18 to 26, you are entitled to a free 10-day all expenses paid trip to Israel run by [https://www.birthrightisrael.com/ Birthright Israel]. As part of this trip, you will be taken to the various cultural, religious, and natural sites around Israel, and may get a chance to interact with university students or with soldiers of the IDF. ===Entry requirements=== {{see also|Visa trouble}} {{VisaRestriction|Due to the ongoing Israeli–Arab dispute,[[Iran]], [[Iraq]], [[Kuwait]], [[Lebanon]], [[Syria]], and [[Yemen]] (Enemy Countries of Israel) block passports containing stamps or visas from Israel. You may also have difficulties getting into and/or be refused visas to other Islamic countries who don't recognize the State of Israel. However, this is no longer a problem as Israeli passport control no longer stamps visitors' passports. Having said that, be careful if entering or exiting Israel by land though (e.g. from Jordan or Egypt), as a stamp from the land border crossing or a neighboring country with Israel will be taken as evidence that you have visited Israel, and could also result in you being denied entry to any of these countries, especially to the former countries mentioned. In this case, you'll have to apply for a second passport, which allows you to have a stamp of any neighboring countries or even Israel in one passport and travel to Arab states with another one. (Inquire at your own embassy.) The customs on these countries might also check for luggage stickers (or their residue) from Israel or neighboring countries on your suitcase or the back(s) of your passport. So, remove any leftovers or signs of them. |lastedit=2011-04-08 }} [[File:Visa policy of Israel.svg|thumb|450px|Citizens of countries in green are eligible for an ETA (except for German citizens born before 1928). Citizens of countries in gray need a visa (except for Egyptian citizens entering through [[Taba]]).]] [[File:Ben-gurion-airport-terminal (cropped).jpg|thumb|Ben Gurion International Airport is the main entry point for most visitors to Israel.]] All foreign nationals entering Israel must have a visa or an electronic travel authorization (ETA-IL). Electronic travel authorization is available to citizens of certain countries and allows to visit Israel for tourism for up to 90 days. Travelers can check eligibility and apply for an ETA on the [https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il/ official website], the cost is ₪25. Citizens of the following countries/territories are eligible for an ETA (official list [https://www.gov.il/en/departments/dynamiccollectors/ashrotzarim here]): all '''European Union''' member states, [[Albania]], [[Andorra]], [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[Bahamas]], [[Barbados]], [[Belarus]], [[Belize]], [[Botswana]], [[Brazil]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[Colombia]], [[Costa Rica]], [[Dominica]], [[Dominican Republic]], [[Ecuador]], [[El Salvador]], [[Eswatini]], [[Fiji]], [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]], [[Grenada]], [[Guatemala]], [[Haiti]], [[Honduras]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Iceland]], [[Jamaica]], [[Japan]], [[Lesotho]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Macau]], [[Malawi]], [[Marshall Islands]], [[Mauritius]], [[Mexico]], [[Federated States of Micronesia|Micronesia]], [[Moldova]], [[Monaco]], [[Mongolia]], [[Montenegro]], [[Nauru]], [[New Zealand]], [[North Macedonia]], [[Norway]], [[Palau]], [[Panama]], [[Papua New Guinea]], [[Paraguay]], [[Peru]], [[Philippines]], [[Russia]], [[Saint Kitts and Nevis]], [[Saint Lucia]], [[Saint Vincent and the Grenadines]], [[Samoa]], [[San Marino]], [[Serbia]], [[Singapore]], [[Solomon Islands]], [[South Africa]], [[South Korea]], [[Suriname]], [[Switzerland]], [[Taiwan]], [[Tonga]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[Ukraine]], [[United Arab Emirates]], [[United Kingdom]], [[United States of America|United States]], [[Uruguay]] and [[Vanuatu]]. If, however, you are suspected of illegal or anti-Israeli activities, being of Arab descent or Muslim, there is a possibility of you being subject to additional questioning, searches and/or denied entry, if they are not satisfied after questioning, according to the US Department of State. Having a visa or an ETA does not guarantee entry. Decisions are left to the [http://www.mfa.gov.il/NR/rdonlyres/05664082-4C0C-4C2E-A593-C9D0C0B20C2A/0/VisaRequirements.pdf discretion of immigration officers]. A visa or residence permit will be denied if you or the organization you're part of have knowingly and publicly boycotted the state of Israel or pledged to take part in such a boycott.<!-- https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/mar/06/israel-law-barring-entry-supporters-jewish-state-boycott --> '''German''' citizens born before 1 Jan 1928 have to apply for a visa in advance. This visa will be given if you were not heavily involved in persecution during the Nazi era and will be valid for the whole time your passport is valid. Egyptian citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 14 days if entering through [[Taba]] and visiting up to [[Beer Sheva]] only. [[File:Text in Pakistani Passport forbidding citizens from entering Israel.jpg|thumb|If your passport has this, you're reading the wrong article]] Entering Israel is a crime ''per se'' in some Muslim states. Even if you're a Muslim-born citizen of a European or North American country, having entered Israel may have consequences when going to your (other) country of citizenship. Israeli Customs and Immigration officers may take a dim view of travelers arriving from countries that do not recognize the State of Israel, but you are unlikely to face anything worse than very time-consuming and repetitive but polite questioning. Depending on the situation, if you have stamps from countries hostile to Israel in your passport, you should expect to be taken to one side (without any explanation) and eventually questioned. This can take anywhere from 10 minutes to several hours. The key thing to remember is this: if you have nothing to hide, then, other than the inconvenience of questioning, you should have nothing to be worried about. If you are a young backpacker, especially if you travel alone, it is much more likely you will be detained for questioning in Ben Gurion Airport. There is a "selection committee" of 2 security guards waiting when you go up the escalators from your flight, and if you seem suspicious they will not hesitate to stop you. If you dress up nicely or seem a part of another group or a family they are less likely to bother you. If you're in Israel on a tourist visa (B2) and decide to renew your visa for a longer term, you may do so at the [http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/About+the+Ministry/Consular_affairs/Visas.htm Ministry of the Interior Visa office] for a small fee. Just call Ministry of Interior Call center at {{phone|+972 2 629-4666}} to find out where is the office near you. Alternately, citizens from most European and North American countries can renew their visas by crossing into Jordan and back at the Arava border crossing near Eilat or by crossing into Egypt and back at Taba. ===By plane=== {{cautionbox|Non-Israeli airlines can cancel flights to Israel immediately and even turn their planes around and go back to the departing airport when significant incidents occur in the region. Consider this when you book flight to the country.}} There are three international airports in Israel, though only one of them receives a significant number of international flights. * {{go | name=[[Ben Gurion International Airport]] | alt={{IATA|TLV}} | url=https://www.iaa.gov.il/en-US/airports/bengurion/Pages/default.aspx | email= | address= | lat=32.009444 | long=34.882778 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ben Gurion Airport | image=Ben gurion international airport terminal 3.jpg | wikidata=Q181479 | lastedit=2022-07-09 | content=Israel's main international airport. Located on the outskirts of [[Lod]], it is about 20 km (12 mi) southeast of [[Tel Aviv]] and about 45 km (28 mi) northwest of [[Jerusalem]]. The airport is of extreme strategic importance because it is one of the few convenient entry points to the country. It is the main hub of Israeli flag carrier '''[https://www.elal.com/ El Al]'''. }} * {{go | name=Ramon Airport | alt=Ilan & Assaf Ramon Airport, {{IATA|ETM}} | url=http://www.iaa.gov.il/he-IL/airports/ramonairport/Pages/default.aspx | email= | address= | lat=29.7272 | long=34.9983 | directions=On Hwy 90, 20 km north of Eilat | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2896949 | lastedit=2024-10-25 | content=This airport opened in 2019, and now handles all flights to Eilat, in addition to serving as the hub for Ben Gurion. During peaceful periods, it also receives a small number of international flights from Europe between November and March. }} * {{go | name=Haifa Airport | alt={{IATA|HFA}} | url=https://www.iaa.gov.il/en/airports/haifa/ | email= | address= | lat=32.809444 | long=35.043056 | directions= | phone=+972 3-975-8303 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q643113 | lastedit= | content=As of early 2025, this airport is operated by '''[https://www.airhaifa.com/en/ Air Haifa]''' with a daily flight from [[Athens]] and several daily flights from [[Larnaca]]. }} Flights to Israel on Israeli airlines are subject to additional security measures at their points of departure. This means that you will be subject to intensive questioning at check-in, and you will undergo additional security screening at the boarding gate. During the questioning, you will be asked about the purposes of your visit to the country. Expect to be questioned further if you have Arab-Muslim names, or evidence of visiting countries that do not recognize the State of Israel. ===By boat=== It is surprisingly difficult for the individual traveler to reach Israel by boat, and there are no regular ferries. Lots of large cruise ships call at Haifa and Ashdod but these are not available for point-to-point trips. [http://www.salamiscruiselines.com/ Salamis Cruises] very occasionally runs short cruises from Limassol in Cyprus to Haifa (and, if you prefer, to Beirut), and conversely, the Haifa-based line [https://cruise.mano.co.il/Cruises Mano] operates short cruises round the Mediterranean. These may be available as point-to-point trips but you would probably have to pay the full cruise fare, carry only light luggage as landing is by small tenders, and make other arrangements for return as there might not be another such cruise till the following summer. With your own yacht or other small craft, from abroad you may land in Israel at [[Haifa]], [[Herzliya]], [[Tel Aviv]] or [[Ashkelon]]. Call ahead before entering Israeli waters to arrange immigration and customs clearance. [[Eilat]] does not specifically list marina arrival facilities, but it is of course a 24-hour commercial port of entry. See also [[Ferries in the Mediterranean]] and [[Freighter travel]]. ===By road=== There are land routes from Egypt and Jordan to Israel; these border crossings have security measures similar to the airports. There are no land routes to either Syria or Lebanon, owing to the fact that these countries do not officially recognize Israel's existence. [[File:Allenby Bridge - 2.jpg|thumb|The Allenby Bridge]] [[Jordan]] has three crossings with Israel: the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge (the shortest way between [[Amman]] and [[Jerusalem]], the busiest crossing); the Jordan River/Sheikh Hussein Bridge (in the north); and Arava/Yitshak Rabin (2&nbsp;km from Eilat). It's fairly straightforward to cross using a series of buses, though pay attention to the ''childish'' [[Aqaba#By_taxi|Aqaba border taxi Mafia]]. If you cross the King Hussein Bridge you will not be given an exit stamp for Jordan, and you will not be stamped on re-entry if you choose to return. Mentioning West Bank destinations in your itinerary will arise suspicion &ndash; it is just best to avoid mentioning the Palestinian Territories at all while passing the border. From [[Egypt]] you can cross the border at the Taba Border Terminal, near Eilat. From the terminal to Eilat, take bus number 16, 30, or a taxi. The terminal is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with the exception of the Jewish Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) and the Muslim Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice). Israeli rental cars are not generally permitted across the borders for insurance reasons; in addition, it may not be advisable to travel in Arab countries while displaying an Israeli number plate. Travelers leaving Israel by land will need to pay an exit fee at the border. (No fee needs to be paid at the airport &ndash; it may be included in the ticket cost.) As of 2021, the fee is ₪176 for Allenby Bridge, and ₪101 for all other border terminals. ===By bus=== ====From [[Amman]]==== * There are weekly buses to [[Nazareth]] via the Sheikh Hussein bridge (near [[Beit Shean]]), call the operator (+972 4 657-3984) for details. From Nazareth there are buses to Haifa, Tel Aviv, and other destinations. * Alternatively, you can take a bus to the Sheikh Hussein bridge, cross the border on foot, and get to Israeli destinations by taxi/bus. * If you don't have Israeli citizenship, you can also use the [[Jordan#King Hussein "Allenby" Bridge|King Hussein border crossing]] near [[Jericho]]—see link for more details. ====From [[Cairo]]==== * There are twice-weekly buses to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem (USD90 one way) via Eilat, operated by [https://www.mazadatours.com/ Mazada tours]{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Tel +972 2 623-5777). You still have to change buses at the border. (Use Mazada tours at your own risk! They subcontract the Egyptian side of the journey and do little to nothing to help if there is any mix up. At least one Mazada group from Tel Aviv/Jerusalem reportedly was held at the Taba Border - Egyptian side for 7 hours because the Israeli company failed to pay the Egyptian company.) * Alternatively, you can take a bus to [[Taba]], then cross the border to [[Eilat]] on foot. ==Get around== {{see also|Public transit in Israel}} Israel generally has a modern, sophisticated travel network, although public transit service is not as good as in Europe or East Asia. It is safe and easy to get around the country, although it can be slow (due to traffic, or slow or infrequent buses). Israelis are always willing to help a lost tourist, so never be afraid to ask people for directions or advice. Travelers should also be aware of Shabbat (Hebrew: שבָּת) the Hebrew word often spelled "Sabbath" in English. From Friday at 16:00 until Saturday at 18:00 (November to March) or 21:00 (April to October), With the exception of Nazareth, Haifa, East Jerusalem and Eilat, public transport services are completely stopped. Included to Tel Aviv airport. In Tel Aviv during the Shabat the municipality operates shuttles with a frequency of every 20 minutes, information about which is available at the bus stations, and in the Google Maps and moovit applications. There will be limited taxi service, and a weekend surcharge applies. Public transport is used heavily by soldiers traveling to/from their bases, so a bus or train packed full of soldiers (some armed) is a common occasion and does not indicate any special occurrence. There is a particularly large number of soldiers mainly in the intercity transport on Thursday afternoon and on Sunday morning. The official national call center for public transportation information (available in English as well) is on *8787 or 072-2588787 (for phone with no access to *star numbers). There is no fee except for regular call-charge. Public transit planning mobile apps are helpful, see [[Public transit in Israel #By Internet and smartphone]]. Jerusalem has a single light rail line with more planned and under construction, while Tel Aviv has a light rail system under construction. The oldest subway in the Middle East is "Carmelit" in Haifa, which is worth taking for the novelty, but of limited use otherwise, as it only serves one rather short line. ===By bus=== Buses are the most common form of public transportation for Israelis and travelers alike. Bus travel is the cheapest way to get around Israel, and is safe and reliable. Israeli soldiers travel for free on most public bus routes, so travelers will often see armed soldiers on buses. The largest bus company in Israel is [http://www.egged.co.il/Eng/ Egged] (Hebrew: אגד), which was formed in 1933. Egged operates 30% of the country's public transportation service lines. Intercity buses typically begin and end their routes at central bus stations, and also pick up and drop off passengers along the route. Buses do not have toilets on them, But on journeys lasting more than three hours, the driver stops to refreshing for about 15 minutes at a gas station. Except of the buses to Eilat, there is no need and it is not possible to purchase tickets in advance. The signage at the bus stops and buses in languages other than Hebrew is limited. Ask people around you for help or use mobile apps. If you are unsure where to get off the bus, sit near the front and ask the bus driver to help you. Most drivers are willing to help, as are most passengers. Google Maps or Moovit apps offer directions for travel in Israel based on bus schedules. ===By Sherut=== [[File:Sherut.JPG|thumb|Sherut taxis]] A sherut (Hebrew for service) or servees (Arabic) is a shared taxi that seats more than four people (the usual occupancy is ten). Depending on the circumstances, a driver will either follow a predetermined route like a bus, or will transport a group of people from place to place according to demand. Reforms made to the taxi service industry alongside COVID that hit revenue have almost completely eliminated these vehicles, and therefore these vehicles can no longer be relied upon for mobility. ===By train=== [[File:Israel Railways Map (en).png|thumb|A subway style map of Israeli railway lines]] Trains are generally quicker and more comfortable than buses. Except in the Galilee, the Dead Sea and the Negev Desert. Israel's train network reaches most of the main cities as well as [[Ben Gurion Airport]], the main entry point for foreign visitors. The main destinations reached by the train are Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, Be'er Sheva, Acre and Beit Shean. Unlike the train stations in Europe, the train stations are usually not within walking distance of the urban attractions and require the use of an additional means of transportation. Trains run 2-3 times per hour in peak travel times and at least once an hour at off peak hours. Trains on the Nahariya-Haifa-Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion Airport-Be'er Sheva line run through the night too. However, after midnight, trains stop in Haifa at the Hof Hacarmel station only, in Tel Aviv at Merkaz (Central) only, and in Be'er Sheva at Merkaz (Central) only. All other Be'er Sheva, Tel Aviv and Haifa stations close after midnight. One must also remember that trains operate only on weekdays (there are no trains from Friday afternoon till Saturday evening). In fact, the trains stop several hours earlier on Friday than buses do. The Tel Aviv-Jerusalem line via Ben Gurion Airport is the first electrified line in the country and trains reach up to {{kmh|160}}. You'll find a lot of double decker trains reminiscent of those found in Germany and IC3 multiple units like those found in Denmark. Most of the rolling stock has been bought in the 21st century and is therefore modern and comfortable. [https://www.rail.co.il/en Israel Railways] runs intercity lines from [[Nahariya]] to [[Beer Sheva|Be'er Sheva]] via [[Haifa]], [[Tel Aviv]] and [[Ben Gurion airport]], from [[Jerusalem]] to [[Tel Aviv]], and suburban lines radiating from Tel Aviv to [[Binyamina]], [[Ashkelon]], [[Kfar Sava]], [[Raanana]], [[Rishon LeZion]], [[Modiin]] and [[Bet Shemesh]]. There is also a suburban line between [[Beer Sheva|Be'er Sheva]] and [[Dimona]]. [[Tel Aviv#By train|Tel Aviv has 4 train stations]], [[Haifa#By train|Haifa (including its eastern suburban neighborhoods) has 6]], and [[Beer Sheva#By train|Be'er Sheva has 2]], providing easy access to many parts of those cities. ===By taxi=== To differentiate from a shared taxi (''sherut''), a regular Israel taxi is sometimes called ''special'' (using the English word). The driver should use the meter both inside and outside cities (in Hebrew, ''moneh''), unless the passenger agrees to a fixed price (a fixed price is almost universally in the driver's favor). There are surcharges; for calling a taxi by phone (₪5 as of January 2013), for luggage (₪4.20 a piece), for more than 2 passengers (₪4.70 (fixed), passengers that are children under the age of 5 are not taken into account), for taking toll-routes and for hailing a taxi at airports or seaports (Ben Gurion airport - ₪5, Haifa seaport - ₪2). Drivers are known to try to scam tourists by not turning on the meter to begin with and then fighting about the cost at the end of the ride. It is best to specify that you absolutely require the 'moneh' to be activated before you leave unless you know how much the trip should cost, in which case you can make a deal. However, if you are caught off guard some drivers will become extremely rude or even violent if you refuse to pay despite the meter never having been switched on. It is best to try to avoid this situation, but it is better to avoid any conflict with the driver by paying and learning rather than saving your money and risking an unpredictable escalation. Noting the taxi's number (clearly visible on the outside of the cab) and contacting the local taxi authority is an efficient form of redress. A good way of avoiding scams is to order taxis with the Gett/GetTaxi smartphone app. Gett use only licensed taxi drivers and the same fare structure as any other taxi ride. It gives the fixed price or meter price directly to you, allows for credit card payment (none of the "I have no change" nonsense), and you can put in your specific destination and see that the driver isn't taking a roundabout route to run the meter up. Israeli taxi drivers do not expect a tip, and neither should you generally offer one. In addition, they are more likely to round the fare down to the nearest shekel than up. All Israeli taxis are numbered, and all print out an official receipt on printers attached to their meters (if you request), useful if you are traveling on business. Ridehailing is available in Israel. [https://gett.com/il/taxiapp/ Gett]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is a local option, [https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/tel-aviv/ Uber] works also in Tel Aviv and [https://yango.yandex.com/en_il/passenger/ Yango]{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} works in Ashdod, Ashkelon, Beer Sheva, Haifa, Herzliya, Hod HaSharon, Petah Tikva, Rishon Le-Zion and Tel Aviv. ===By thumb=== Most major junctions have a shelter and are well lit throughout the night. Hitchhiking is more accepted in rural areas, particularly sparsely populated areas like the Golan Heights or between smaller towns in the West Bank that have little bus service, than in cities. Local West Bank settlers rely heavily on hitch-hiking for transportation. Almost every car will stop and suggest a lift if you stand in any settlement's gate as most of them are defended by IDF soldiers. Nevertheless, inside the West Bank you should never hitchhike from Jewish settlements/cities to Palestinian areas (or vice-versa); this is dangerous. Do not hitchhike in a car that stopped for you unprompted. Read through Wikivoyage general guide, which provides a lot of good advice on the how, where and when of [[Hitchhiking]]. ===By car=== ====Road system==== Israel has a modern highway network that connects all destinations throughout the country. In general, intercity roads are generally of a quality similar to those in Western Europe. Traveling within urban areas and between cities is not recommended by car, as roads in Israel are congested most of the day. Places where driving is necessary are places outside urban settlements. Tourist areas where public transportation is limited or non-existent are around the Dead Sea, the holy sites for Christianity around the Sea of ​​Galilee, Caesarea, and Beit Guvrin. Road signs often follow city names (rather than compass directions). That means that you will see signs to Road 1 Jerusalem and Road 1 Tel Aviv, rather than Road 1 West and Road 1 East, so generally you must follow the name of the largest city at the direction of your destination, even if it is not marked. For example, when traveling from Haifa to Be'er Sheva, you will need to travel southwards which means to follow signs directing you to Tel Aviv. When approaching Tel Aviv, you will start to see directions to Be'er Sheva. When getting directions, it's best to ask for the name of an exit as well as the exit just before it. Roads are numbered according to orientation and significance. In general, east-west roads are given odd numbers, and north-south roads are given even numbers. Numbers generally increase from south to north, and east to west. The most significant national highways are numbered using one or two digits, while the least significant local roads are numbered using four digits. Exceptions to these rules do exist. {| |[[File:ISR-FW-1.svg|50px]][[File:ISR-HW-1.svg|50px]] |Roads with single-digit numbers are important, nationally significant roads. Most of them are at least partly motorways (freeways). The motorway parts are colored blue, the non-motorway parts are colored red. |- |[[File:ISR-HW-90.svg|50px]] |Roads with two-digit numbers have regional significance. They are normally colored red, but in a few cases they are motorways and colored blue. |- |[[File:ISR-HW-386.svg|50px]] |Roads with three-digit numbers usually have lower importance and are short (under 20&nbsp;km). They are colored green, except for a few motorways which are blue. |- |[[File:ISR-HW-4402.svg|50px]] |Roads with four-digit numbers are least important, often only a few km long, and sometimes dead ends. Their signs are colored brown. |- |} ====Driving regulations==== [[File:Red Light Israel 02.jpg|thumb|Traffic light controlling left turn]] [[File:IL Highway 50 01 2012-03-17.jpg|thumb|Road marking:<br /> * yellow - outer edges of the road<br /> * white -traffic in the same direction and in opposite directions<br /> Road signs:<br /> * straight: road #443 to Modi'in, Atarot airfield (pictogram) and industrial zone (pictogram)<br /> * Exit right: road #1 to "Maale Adumin", to Mt. Scopus and to Hadasa Mt. Scopus Hospital (pictogram)]] [[File:Natbagg022.jpg|thumb|On the right, Bus parked at a Red-Yellow curb marking. On the left, a no parking area marked Red and White]] Traffic in Israel drives on the right. Traffic signs and regulations are standard and resemble those of Western Europe. Highway signage is usually in Hebrew, Arabic, and English, although sometimes just in Hebrew and English. Having signs in 3 languages (Hebrew, English, Arabic) usually makes signs overloaded with text, thus only the name of the destination is written in text and a pictogram is used for the type of destination. Usually, each traffic light has an arrow on top, and the traffic light then controls travel to the indicated direction, with a green light guaranteeing that all conflicting traffic faces a red light. Lights without arrows above them control all directions. Red light always means stop. Turning right or left at a red light is strictly forbidden. There is no turning left or right while yielding to opposite traffic, since conflicting traffic always faces a red light, even in the absence of arrows (however, this is not always the case with pedestrians, particularly when turning right). As in several other countries, the green phase is preceded by a red+yellow combination phase. A flashing green light indicates that the yellow light is about to appear, but can usually be found only on roads with speed limits of at least 60&nbsp;km/h. White road markings are used to separate both traffic travelling in the same direction and in opposite directions. Yellow lines are used to mark the outer edges of the road (do not cross these, except if stopping at a shoulder), and orange or red lines are used in road works zones or following a change in road signs. Traffic circles (roundabouts) are very common; one gives way to cars already in the circle. There are no all-way stop signs like the ones the USA, Canada, and South Africa. All stop signs require drivers to yield to all conflicting traffic after coming to a complete stop. Headlights must be turned on (even during the day) on intercity highways from November to March. Motorcyclists have to have their headlights on in all months of the year. Seat belts must be worn at all times in all seats. Using a mobile phone without a hands-free system is forbidden. If one must exit the vehicle on the shoulder of a highway, it is required to put on a reflective vest in order to promote visibility. It is required to keep the reflective vest at all times within the passenger's cabin of the vehicle, and not in the trunk. Car rental companies are required to supply such a vest and it is usually inside the glove compartment. Parking regulations are indicated by curb markings: * Red and white — Parking is prohibited, although this rule is often flouted outside weekday daytimes. However, just because others are doing so, doesn't mean your car won't be fined or towed. * Red and yellow — Reserved for certain vehicles, such as buses at bus stops. * Blue and white — Parking only with a parking permit purchased at a machine. There is not always a machine nearby, if so, cellphone payment system must be used. In some areas, such as in parts of Tel Aviv, blue and white markings are restricted even at night to residents only. A sign at the beginning of the street, usually in Hebrew only, will detail the specific restrictions. * Red and Grey — Reserved for residents, but might only be reserved at specific times as stated in signs. * Grey — Areas are free to park at, unless a parking sign at the beginning of the street requires payment or restricts it. * Black and White — Marked for curb visibility, when no other coloring apply. Israel uses the metric system of measurements. Default speed limits are 50&nbsp;km/h in residential zones, 80&nbsp;km/h on intercity roads without a physical separation median between opposing lanes, and 90&nbsp;km/h on intercity roads with a physical separation median. By default, all major freeways (identified by the standard blue European motorway sign) have a speed limit of 110&nbsp;km/h; however, in practice, speed limit signs bearing a lower limit (usually 90&nbsp;km/h or 100&nbsp;km/h) limit the speed on these roads. Police presence on the roads is generally very significant, and speed and red light cameras are common. Both radar (mostly stationary) and LIDAR (laser, hand-held) are in use for speeding enforcement. Police vehicles in active duty may have their blue lights turned on for the duration of their trip. Unlike most countries in the "First World", in Israel this is not a sign that they want to pull you over. If they do, they would either turn on their siren or use a loudspeaker to instruct you to stop on the shoulder. A verbal request, although usually made in Hebrew, will usually include the make of the car. It is advisable to comply. =====Toll highways===== [[File:Israel Toll Symbol.svg|thumb|Toll Highway sign]] * {{listing | name=Highway 6 | alt=Kvish Shesh - כביש 6 | url=https://www.kvish6.co.il/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+972 3 9081111, +972 3 9086116 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q595131 | lastedit=2021-03-13 | content=electronic-toll-highway, unique in having ''no toll booths''. Vehicles using it are identified by license plates and/or electronic tags, and bills are sent to the vehicle's registered owner. The price is determined by the number of road segments that are used:<br />:*On the main section (from 'Iron interchange to Sorek interchange) the minimum charge is for 3 segments (even if you drove through less segments) and the maximum charge is for 5 segments (even if you drove through more segments).<br />:*On the northern segment (one segment from 'Iron interchange to Ein Tut interchange) there is a separate special charge, as it's not a part of the main section.<br />:*The southern section (from Sorek interchange to Ma'ahaz interchange) is free of charge.<br />:Various subscriptions are available. Consult your rental company regarding payment of highway 6 rides, as they often carry a surcharge. }} * {{listing | name=6 North | alt=Shesh Tzafon - 6 צפון | url=https://6cn.co.il/ | email= | address= | lat=32.65219463743896 | long=35.09067429560603 | directions= | phone= +972 3 9533929| tollfree= | hours= | price= 10 ILS for cars for all 6 North segments combined | wikidata=Q85996061 | lastedit=2022-09-11 | content=The northern segments of Road 6. the road segments are: Yokneam tunnels (Toll), road 70 (Free), Somech tunnels (toll). }} * {{listing | name=Carmel Tunnels | alt=Minharot Ha'Carmel - מנהרות הכרמל | url=https://www.carmeltunnels.co.il/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+972 4 6895424 | tollfree= | hours= | price=9.91 / 19.82 ILS for cars | wikidata=Q2590241 | lastedit=2021-03-13 | content=A set of 4 tunnels (2 in each direction with the Neve Sha'anan interchange between them) that crosses Haifa under the Carmel mountain. The price is determined by the number of segments that you use (1 or 2 segments). Every vehicle must report at entry toll booths and again at an exit toll booth. }} * {{listing | name=Fast Lane to Tel-Aviv | alt=Hanativ Hamahir - הנתיב המהיר | url=https://www.transisrael.co.il/ContentPage?id=154 | email=tofes@fastlane.co.il | address= | lat=31.993053 | long=34.882144 | directions=Entrance from Route 1 just before Ben-Gurion airport (thus no direct access from the airport itself) | phone=+972 73 2100400 | tollfree= | hours=06:00-23:00 | price=Price depends on congestion of route 1, and may rise up to 105 ILS | wikidata=Q6260571 | lastedit=2021-03-13 | content=A 13km stretch from Route 1 (near Ben Gurion Airport), ending at the second highway exit to Tel Aviv, the Kibbutz Galuyot exit (only one direction). Vehicles going through the whole route must be registered in advance. The price is determined by the number of vehicles entering the lane, to keep traffic flowing smoothly. The maximum toll is ₪105, but is usually much less. Vehicles with at least 4 passengers (including the driver) may use the lane for free by making a stop at the toll booth. There is an unspoken agreement that if a uniformed soldier is with you in the car, the toll booth attendant lets you pass free even if there are only 3 passengers in the car (especially in the morning weekday hours). A formal free alternative is to leave your vehicle inside the lane's parking lot (which may get full very early in the morning), and take a [https://fastlane.co.il/park free shuttle bus (every 15 minutes)] to Tel Aviv (Kaplan road, mainly) or Ramat Gan (diamond exchange district, "Bursa"). With this alternative, after returning to your car with the shuttle bus, you must drive with the direction to Jerusalem or Rishon Le-Zion. }} ====Licensing information==== All drivers in Israel must carry a driver's license or ID. International driver permits, as well as licenses from foreign countries are accepted. Drivers of motor vehicles must be at least 17 years old, while insurance is mandatory. Driving a motorcycle or a moped is permitted starting at age 16. A driver's license is mandatory for two wheel vehicles as well! All cars in Israel must undergo an annual safety inspection, and a sticker bearing the month and year of the next inspection should appear on the front windshield. Every car is required to carry a yellow reflective vest at all times. Theoretically, the police could stop you at any time and ask to see it. If you stop on the edge of the road, and have to get out, you are required by law to wear the vest. All rental cars should have one, so it is a good idea to check before you leave. In Israel while you are driving, the police are allowed to stop you for any reason whatsoever; mostly they do so for license checkups. Shabby-looking vehicles get stopped far more often. ====Safety issues==== Car accident fatalities in Israel are on par with most European countries and less than half that of the US. However, Israeli drivers are known to be aggressive and impatient. Take this into consideration if you decide to drive in Israel, and use caution - be prepared for other drivers not to yield when they normally should and not to respect your right of way. Be especially cautious on two-lane intercity roads, especially when passing other vehicles. While most major highways have a physical separation median, many lower-traffic intercity roads do not. Also be particularly cautious when driving in the Negev desert, since most roads in that region have only two lanes carrying fast-moving traffic, and trips tend to last hours in the heat. Take care while traveling on Friday night and Saturday, the Jewish Shabbat, as roads tend to be emptier and invite faster, and occasionally more reckless, drivers. Also be more cautious in winter when it rains, as roads will be unusually slick. The first rainy days in fall are particularly dangerous, since the oil/grease and other substances that accumulated on the road all summer are released. ====Car rental==== Most major international car rental companies as well as many Israeli ones provide car rental services. You will be charged VAT for your car rental if you do not produce a visa (for example, if you entered via Allenby and avoided the stamps, although the paper will do). If you are going to Palestinian areas in the West Bank, your rental insurance may not cover the trip. Clarify exactly where you plan to go with the company before renting. Companies: * {{Listing |name=Hertz |url=https://www.hertz.co.il/en/HomePage/.aspx}} * {{Listing |name=Avis |url=https://www.avis.co.il/en/car-rent-in-israel/|lastedit=2024-10-25}} * {{Listing |name=Budget |url=https://www.budget.co.il/en/}} * {{Listing |name=Sixt (Shlomo) |url=https://en.shlomo.co.il|lastedit=2024-10-25}} * {{Listing |name=Europcar (Albar) |url=https://rent.albar.co.il/en/rent-in-israel/}} * {{Listing |name= Eldan |url=https://rent.eldan.co.il/en |wikidata=Q6757506 |content=Israel's largest car rental company}} * {{Listing |name=Tamir |url=https://www.tamir-rental.com |content=a car rental service that delivers and picks up the rental car for you}} * {{listing | name=GoTo | alt=formerly car2go | url=https://gotoglobal.com/en/country/israel | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q12403199 |lastedit=2024-10-25| content=provides rental cars by the hour with cars available near train stations and other main locations. This is the only service available for rentals pickup during weekend and public holidays. }} * {{Listing |name=Sun Car |url=https://www.carrentalsisrael.com|wikidata=Q43295764 }} * {{Listing |name=PaapmPaapm |url=https://search.paapmpaapm.com/en/|wikidata= |content=compare prices between multiple car rental agencies in Israel|lastedit=2024-10-25}} ===By plane=== Tel Aviv Ben Gurion International Airport to Eilat Ramon airport (or return) is the only active domestic air route. The flight time is between 30 and 45 minutes. Expect 4-8 daily flights during wintertime and roughly hourly during the peak vacation times in July and August. The twp operators are [http://www.arkia.com/ Arkia]{{Dead link|date=April 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and [https://www.israirairlines.com/ Israir]. Despite its popularity, the Haifa-Eilat route is inactive since the previous decade. Private operators can arrange charter flights to one of the many airfields in the country (Rosh Pina, Kiryat Shmona, Meggido, Fik, Rishon LeTzion, Be'er Sheva, and Herzliya). For aviation adventurers check '''[[MTZ|Bar Yehuda Airfield]]''' ({{IATA|MTZ}}), at {{m|378}} '''below''' mean sea level the lowest airport in the world can be quite an experience. ===By bicycle=== While there are some areas with a bikeshare system and even something of a cycling culture, Tel Aviv chief among them, and while you can see kids in secular cities fill the streets on their bikes on Yom Kippur, in general Israel is not a cycling country. Still, distances are short and some roads have not much traffic. Unfortunately there's not really any awareness of the tourism benefits of bikes and on some routes a four lane highway with no shoulder in the scorching desert sun are all your options. Bike carriage on Israel Railways is free outside of rush hour, however. ===On foot and navigation=== Israel is an excellent place for hiking and trekking, providing [[#Do|many interesting trails]]. However, due to the often remote nature of these trails (like the Ramon Crater or the Negev), it is important that you are well prepared and have a proper and reliable map with you. In addition, using GPS adds an extra layer of safety, both in cities as well as the countryside. For reliable (offline) maps, [[GPS navigation]], comprehensive trails and map information, consult [https://www.openstreetmap.org/ OpenStreetMap], which is also used by this travel guide, and by many mobile Apps like [https://osmand.net/ OsmAnd] and [https://en.mapy.cz/ Mapy.cz]. Or just download the according GPX or KML files through [https://hiking.waymarkedtrails.org/ Waymarked Trails] for such trails on OpenStreetMap. (Note, you just need to change the OpenStreetMap relation ID to download additional GPX or KML files through the same link.) ==See== ===Religious sites=== [[File:Jerusalem 192 (2459023390).jpg|thumb|The Western Wall]] Israel is the core of the '''[[Holy Land]]''', and both its land and its main sights are holy to billions of people of different faiths. Some of the world's most famous religious monuments are found here. Israel's capital '''[[Jerusalem]]''' is the holiest city in Judaism, and one of the holiest in Christianity and Islam. Jerusalem's walled '''Old City''' holds famous religious sites including the gold-plated '''Dome of the Rock''', the '''Western Wall''', the '''Church of the Holy Sepulchre''', and the '''al-Aqsa Mosque'''. Bordering Jerusalem (but administratively part of the [[Palestinian Territories]]) is '''[[Bethlehem]]''', sacred in Christianity as the birthplace of Jesus. The '''Galilee''' region is also full of religious sites, including major Christian sites like '''[[Nazareth]]''' and the '''[[Sea of Galilee region|Sea of Galilee]]''', as well as notable Jewish sites like the kabbalistic city of '''[[Tzfat]]''' and the pilgrimage site '''Meron'''. Along the Mediterranean coast are holy sites of the Bahai religion - the beautiful '''Bahá'í Gardens''' in [[Haifa]] with the golden-domed '''Shrine of the Báb''', and the '''Shrine of Baha'u'llah''' in [[Akko]]. The main pilgrimage site of the Druze religion, '''Nabi Shu'ayb''', is also in the [[Lower Galilee]]. ===Historic sites=== In addition, Israel contain numerous fascinating historic sites from across its thousands of years of recorded history. The '''[[Jerusalem/East|City of David]]''' in Jerusalem contains remains from when King David conquered the city and made it his capital (around 1000 BCE), and even earlier. In Jerusalem, '''[[Jezreel Valley|Megiddo]]''', and '''[[Upper Galilee|Hatzor]]''', you can explore underground water supply systems, tunneled through rock, from the Israelite period. Some of the most impressive ruins in Israel are from the Roman period. '''[[Masada]]''', a stunning mountaintop fortress surrounded by cliffs near the Dead Sea, was used by Jewish rebels against Rome, and in modern times has become a symbol of Jewish heroism. '''[[Caesarea]]''' and '''[[Beit Shean Valley|Beit Shean]]''' are among the Roman cities in Israel, where you can see well-preserved commercial streets and amphitheaters. Later on, the Crusaders left castles in places like '''Akko''' (a beautiful seaside walled city) and '''[[Sea of Galilee region|Belvoir]]'''. Meanwhile, the equally impressive '''Nimrod''' fortress in the [[Golan Heights]] was built by their Muslim rivals. Other ruins from the Muslim period included the iconic walls of Jerusalem, and the underground cistern of '''[[Ramla]]''', which you can explore by boat. [[File:A view from masada on Dead Sea.jpg|thumb|343x343px|A view from Masada on the Dead Sea]] ===The people=== Lively and modern '''[[Tel Aviv]]''' has a completely different atmosphere from Israel's historic sites, with a bustling nightlife (it is known as "the city that never stops") and young atmosphere. But try to get a glimpse of Israel's other different cultures too. Go to the [[Negev]] and partake in the hospitality of '''Bedouin''' Arab nomads, or go north and see a '''Druze''' village. And perhaps visit '''[[Jerusalem/Haredi|Meah Shearim]]''' in Jerusalem, where Haredi ("Ultra-Orthodox") Jews live as if they were still in a European shtetl. Whatever city you go to, be sure to see the local market - Jerusalem's '''Machaneh Yehudah''' and Tel Aviv's '''Carmel market''' might represent the Israeli people better than anything. ===Natural sites=== Despite its small size, Israel contains a wide variety of beautiful and sometimes-unique natural sites. The '''[[Dead Sea (Israel and the West Bank)|Dead Sea]]''' is the lowest place on earth, and its extremely salty water allows you to float on top while reading a newspaper. Israel has a long Mediterranean '''coastline''', much of it consisting of relaxing beaches, some of it made of rock formations or lined with sandstone cliffs. The Red Sea coastline in '''[[Eilat]]''' is much shorter, but gives you the chance to scuba dive around coral reefs, or swim with dolphins. The Galilee is full of scenic forested mountains (with the bright blue '''[[Sea of Galilee region|Sea of Galilee]]''' nestled between them), while the [[Negev]] desert contains stark canyons and beautiful oases, including the '''[[Mitzpe Ramon|Ramon crater]]''' which is the world's largest erosion crater. As the only way to get between [[Africa]] and [[Eurasia]] without crossing oceans, Israel is one of the world's best places for [http://www.birds.org.il/en/article-page.aspx?articleId=124 bird watching]. The '''[[Jerusalem Hills|Soreq Cave]]''' with its stalagmites and stalactites is much like Israel as a whole - small compared to its peers elsewhere in the world, but packed with features in comparison to its size. ===Museums=== Jerusalem is home to the excellent '''Israel Museum''', with a collection that includes the '''Dead Sea Scrolls''' and other archaeological treasures as well as works from artists such as Picasso, Rodin and Matisse. Equally impressive despite its sad theme is '''Yad Vashem''', the largest Holocaust museum in the world. In Tel Aviv, '''Beit HaTefutsot''' is the best place to learn about the Jewish diaspora. ==Do== [[File:PikiWiki Israel 18468 Geography of Israel.jpg|thumbnail|Hiking near the [[Sea of Galilee region|Sea of Galilee]]]] * '''[[Hiking and Backpacking in Israel|Hiking]]''' — Israel is a great place for wilderness backpacking, hiking and camping. A large variety of forest, desert, mountain, and coastline landscapes are all close together, close to cities and historic sites. Keep in mind the [[Hiking and Backpacking in Israel#General Guidelines|important guidelines]]. ** [[Israel National Trail]] &ndash; a marked leisure trail (hiking or cycling) covering 940&nbsp;km from north to south. ** [[Jesus trail|Jesus Trail]] &ndash; a hiking trail from Nazareth to Capernaum covering 65&nbsp;km that connects major Christian sites in the Galilee. ** The ''Nativity Trail'', The path that Joseph and Mary followed to get to from the [http://www.visitpalestine.ps/index.php?lang=en&page=1231670435454 Sea of Galilee to Bethlehem]{{Dead link|date=December 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} * '''[https://www.parks.org.il/en/ National parks and Reserves]'''. Well maintained, brimming with beauty and history, these sites often come with interpretive material and maps in English and other foreign languages. ** There are about 75 national parks and nature reserves in Israel. The entrance fees are between ₪20 and 40 and most of the time are discounted for international students. ** Historic sites in Israel are heavily dotted with informational signs in Hebrew, English, and Arabic. This, in addition to the pamphlet you are given upon entering national parks, makes it easy to understand the significance of everything you see. In contrast to many other countries (Italy comes to mind) where signs are rare and you need to hire a tour guide to understand what you are seeing, here the sites are much more self-explanatory. ** Israeli National Parks are usually closed before 8 and after 16/17:00 (winter/summer), which gives the opportunity for a free and spectacular sunrise or sunset (like the recommended one in Masada). * '''Archaeological digs''' – given how much history took place here, archaeology has been a national pastime of modern Israel (though less now than a generation ago). In the early years of the state, archaeologists like Yigael Yadin became political leaders, while leaders like Moshe Dayan tried their hand as amateur archaeologists. There are still plenty of things left to find in the ground, and visitors to Israel can take part in a current archaeological dig. The shortest option is two hours long, in the [[Jerusalem/East#Do|Temple Mount Sifting Project]] in Jerusalem. For a longer dig, try [[Beth Guvrin#Do|Dig for a Day]] in Beit Guvrin. There are also many organized archaeological digs where you can volunteer for a period of weeks or a semester – for a list, see [http://digs.bib-arch.org here]. * '''Rafting''' on the northern Jordan River. * '''Rappelling''' or off-roading in the [[Negev]]. * '''Diving:''' Israel has three seas: Red, Med and Dead. You only want to dive in the Red. Locals dive along the Mediterranean coast, and important marine archaeological finds are being made in those waters, but conditions are more challenging and there's far less to see than in the Red Sea. The Dead Sea has actually been dived, in the sort of kit you'd need to explore Venus, but there's no coral or fish. And then there's the freshwater Sea of Galilee: simply no reason to dive it. The Red Sea coast is all of 4 km in the city of [[Eilat]], sandwiched between the Egyptian and Jordanian borders. It's easy reef diving and snorkeling, and the highlight is the Marine Park around Moses Rock. But it's a small coastline to absorb a lot of floundering bodies. It's good for learning, but experienced divers will probably only want a couple of days diving there as part of a broader tour of Israel.<!-- -->[[File:Barzilay Venue in Tel Aviv Israel.jpg|thumb|Dance club in Tel Aviv]] * '''Clubbing''' in [[Tel Aviv]] * '''Skiing''' at the [[Golan Heights#Do|Hermon snow resort]] (open only in mid-winter) Many Israeli website guides have an English version and can be used for making plans: * [http://www.tiuli.com/default.asp?lng=eng Tiuli] — hiking and field trips * [http://shvilist.com/Israel_national_trail/index.html Israel National Trail] — Maps and other resources * [http://www.kkl.org.il/eng/ KKL-JNF] * [http://timeout.co.il/en Timeout - Digital edition] * [https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g293977-Israel-Vacations.html TripAdvisor] ===Backpacking=== Israel is not a big backpacking/hosteling country. In addition, hitchhiking is not that common anymore (though still possible), which makes it hard and time-consuming for a traveler on a shoestring to save money. Whereas in the West Bank or [[Jordan]] it is common to get a discount when turning up at an accommodation directly, in Israel only a few hostels appreciate such or direct bookings without using ''the monopolistic middle man''. And you might even end up paying more when turning up out of the blue. Many beautiful nature sites in Israel have been converted into national parks, which demand an entrance fee of ₪20-40. There is a [https://www.parks.org.il/en/israel-pass/ combined park ticket] available, which might save you some money if you plan to visit 10 or more over a couple of weeks. This makes it even harder for backpackers who are out in the open very often and just want to let themselves drift through the country. However, besides those troubles, there are some great hikes and nature spots in Israel (even for free), and many free camping options if you bring a tent. ==Buy== === Costs === Israel is expensive. Prices are similar to the upper end prices of western and northern Europe. === Money and payments === {{exchange rates | currency=New Israeli shekels | currencyCode=₪ | date=July 2025 | USD=3.4 | EUR=3.9 | GBP=4.5 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/ils-israeli-shekel XE.com] }}<!--please copy template to [[Palestinian territories#Buy]] when updating--> Israel's currency is the '''New Israeli Shekel''' (שקל חדש or ש"ח), which is often known simply as the '''Shekel'''. It is shortened in English to ILS or NIS. It's denoted by the symbol ₪. One shekel is 100 agorot. The plural of "shekel" in Hebrew is "shkalim". The coins in use are 10 agorot, ₪1/2 (copper), ₪1, ₪2, ₪5 (nickel) and ₪10 (bi-metallic; copper core, nickel rim). Banknotes in use are ₪20, ₪50, ₪100 and ₪200. Contactless mobile/card payments with Google Pay, Apple Pay, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover are widely accepted and commonly used. Card payments (but not mobile payments) over 300 shekels require PIN code verification. Smaller shops may not accept mobile/card payments, but it's okay to ask. Self-service at fuel pumps requires a physical card. Only some taxi drivers accept mobile/card payments. If you prefer not paying drivers directly, Uber and Gett apps operate in Israel. If using cash, avoid using large bills for small charges. Avoid using foreign currencies, it will be at a rip-off exchange rate. ATMs are available everywhere. Some ATMs have usage fees (they are displayed).[[File:השטרות החדשים של ישראל.jpg|thumb|right|Israeli Banknotes since 2017]] === VAT return === The Value Added Tax (VAT) is included in most prices. The tax increased to 18% on January 1, 2025. You can get VAT refunds when leaving the country, though be prepared to queue at the airport. VAT refunds are only granted for individual receipts in excess of ₪400 and subject to a few other conditions. Eilat is a VAT-free city for citizens as well as for foreigners, but being a resort city it is often more expensive to begin with. See [https://www.gov.il/en/departments/guides/vat-refund-guide-for-tourists VAT refund guidelines at the Israel government services portal] and consult the [http://www.israelpost.co.il/ Israel Post website], which provides the refund. ===Tipping=== Outside of the food industry, tipping is not common. The norm for waiters is a 15% tip unless the service was horribly disrespectful. In bars where you sit down at the bar, tip 15%. In fast food restaurants, food stands, and in bars where you order your drink and go, don't tip. In some fine-dining restaurants or when large groups are involved, it's possible for the service charge to be included in the bill. If this is the case, don't tip. Food delivery tip is commonly 10 shekels if service is good. For food app deliveries (e.g. Wolt) and restaurants that add a delivery charge, it's becoming less common to tip. Israelis do not tip taxi drivers. Some taxi drivers attempt to guilt tourists to tip. Similarly to the US, inappropriate tip solicitation has become widespread (tip jars, tipping screens, etc.). It's always okay not to tip when being solicited for tips. Never tip at tipping screens. ===Business hours=== [[File:Dizengoff Center Tel Aviv IL WV.JPG|thumb|The Dizengoff Center mall in Tel Aviv]] Israelis work five days a week, Sunday through Thursday. Friday and Saturday are considered the weekend, though schools are open Friday morning. In Jewish areas, most shops are closed on the Sabbath (Shabbat), from sundown on Friday until sundown on Saturday. Shops are open Friday, but typically will close at about 14:30–15:00 with some shops closing as early as 12:00. Many shops, especially in malls, will re-open on Saturday evening, at about 19:00 in winter, and 20:30 in summer. Some shops, especially in Tel Aviv or outside city limits or in tourist areas, as well as 24-hour convenience stores (mostly found in fuel stations), remain open on Saturdays. In Arab towns, shops are generally open 7 days a week. Shops in malls and on major shopping streets are generally open 09:30–21:00 daily. Banks, post offices, and some smaller shops follow unusual opening hours, so it's best to check. Markets usually open and close early. === Bargaining === Bargaining in Israel is relatively common. A general guideline: sales agents, exaggerated prices, or no displayed prices – bargain. Anything that looks established or corporate – don't. In shops with displayed prices where you are not dealing with a sales agent – don't. Bargaining in bazaars and rural markets is common yet subtle. Vigorous bargaining which is common in some countries will likely get you nowhere and is improper. If you are given a fair price, don't bargain for sport – it is frowned upon. Prices in tourist traps such as the Old City of Jerusalem can routinely be haggled down to as low as 25% of the asking price. Be sure to go shopping on your own, as some guides receive a commission for bringing in business. Price comparison sites are [http://www.zap.co.il Zap] or [https://www.ret.co.il Ret]. If you are bringing a large group of people to a club or a bar, it may be possible to negotiate a discount before arriving with the group. If you are already there, bargaining won't get you anything substantial. Bargaining with taxi drivers over fare is possible, though rarely to your advantage. It is best to instruct them to use the meter ("moneh") if they don't already do so as required by law.[[File:Bargaining Jerusalem.jpg|320px|right|thumb|Bargaining, Tourists & Guides]] ==Eat== While many popular dishes in Israel are typical of [[Middle Eastern cuisine]], its cuisine is as diverse as the population. Food is generally of a very high standard, and immigrants from around the world brought almost every genre and type of food to Israel. '''[[Israel#Kosher food|Kosher food]]''' is widely available. Even restaurants without Kosher certificates follow some guidelines of Kashrut to some extent. Tipping is very common in sit-in places that have waiters – not tipping in sit-in restaurants is frowned upon, but is accepted for signaling atrocious service. It is standard to give 10%–15% (or more for exceptional service). A 20% tip is considered generous. Including a service charge in the bill is no longer legal in Israel and should not be paid. Restaurants may charge a "security fee" – roughly ₪1–2 per person. However, this fee is not mandatory, and it is common to ask for the fee to be removed from the bill, as well you should. Most restaurants accept credit cards, but do not accept personal checks. If you wish to include the tip in your credit card charge, state this before paying. Restaurants are required to allow this. Perhaps surprisingly, most culinary items that are typically associated with Jewish cuisine in much of the English-speaking world, such as bagels and pastrami, are not widespread in Israel, though they can still be found in eateries operated by American or Canadian immigrants. ===Fast and popular=== {{multiple image | footer = Falafel balls and hummus | align = right | image1 = Falafel small.jpg | width1 = 200 | image2 = Hummuswithpinenuts.jpg | width2 = 200 }} Israelis tend to consider falafel and hummus as national dishes, although these dishes do not originate in Israel and are eaten throughout the Levant region. A serving of Falafel includes falafel balls, which are small fried balls of mashed chickpeas and/or fava beans, usually served inside a pita bread (or its larger cousin, the ''lafa'' bread) with ''hummus-chips-salat'' (hummus, French fries and vegetable salad) and tahini. A selection of more salads is usually available, and you can fill your pita with as much as it can take. This is usually the cheapest lunch available (₪10–15), and it's vegetarian (and often vegan). You can also order half a serving ("hatzi mana"). If you don't know which falafel joint to go to, pick one with a good flow of customers, because falafel balls are tastiest when extremely fresh. Hummus is a popular dip made of chickpea granules and various additions (such as olive oil, fresh garlic, lemon juice and tahini) and usually eaten with pieces of pita. At places that specialize in Hummus (commonly referred to as "hummusiot"), you can find the dish topped with chopped lamb, fried chicken breast, and many other different toppings, such as cooked masabacha grains, shakshuka, ground beef, pine nuts, fried onions, mushrooms, etc. Another popular option is ''shawarma'' – sliced turkey or lamb meat, also served inside a pita/lafa with ''hummus-chips-salat'' toppings. Many other things can fit your pita: for example, Me'orav Yerushalemi (Jerusalemite mix), which contain several types of offal meat, or perhaps even schnitzel, a batter fried chicken breast which is somewhat inspired by the Viennese original. Another street food gaining popularity is the Iraqi-origin ''sabikh'': a pita bread stuffed with a hard boiled egg, batter-dipped deep fried eggplant, hummus, tehini, potatoes, and salad. ===Dietary restrictions=== Due to the taboo against pork in Judaism and Islam, pork is rare in Israel, and the import of live pigs and pork products is illegal. That said, exceptions are made for the Christian minority to rear pigs and produce pork products domestically, so pork can be found at shops and restaurants catering to the Christian community, but expect to pay a steep premium for it. ====Kosher food==== [[File:Kosher.jpg|thumb|Kosher logos, as usually found on food products]] [[File:McKosher.jpg|thumb|Kosher McDonald's sign]] Israeli cuisine is heavily influenced by the ancient Jewish laws of kosher food. The word ''kosher'' means anything that is allowed by Jewish religious laws, in this case food laws. Among other things ''kashrut'' requires complete segregation of meat and dairy foods, dishes and utensils; select types of fish are '''kosher''' but most 'sea foods' are not; meat must undergo a ritual slaughter process; and all foods must be prepared under controlled and monitored conditions. Kosher restaurants and hotels display a valid, dated certificate issued by local rabbinical authorities; kosher restaurants close for the Shabbat. Because of the meat-and-milk restrictions, kosher restaurants bill themselves as either בשרי (''b'sari'', "meat") or חלבי (''chalavi'', dairy). Dairy restaurants will also serve fish (as Jewish law does not consider fish to be meat), and egg products. If you find cheeseburgers or pizzas with meat toppings in a kosher restaurant, they are made from soy or other substitutes for either the meat or the cheese. Due to the secular nature of much of Israel, both kosher and non-kosher foods and restaurants can be found. Restaurants in Arab areas rarely follow kosher laws, though they often follow halal laws (the Muslim equivalent). Except some boutique hotels, all the hotels in Israel observe kosher rules. Breakfast is dairy: meat at breakfast – especially bacon and sausages – is impossible to find in hotels and cafes in Israel. On the other hand, during lunch and dinner you'll not be able to get milk for your coffee or butter for your bread (although soy milk and spread are common substitutes). The additional meaning of the kashrut rules is that because of the prohibitions on cooking and operating electrical appliances during the Sabbath and Jewish holidays, on Saturday, even in luxury hotels, food will not be served fresh, but food prepared on Friday afternoon, and coffee machines will be turned off. Most big supermarkets sell only kosher products, but more and more non-kosher supermarkets and convenience stores have appeared, due in part to the many secular Jews who have immigrated from the former USSR. With restaurants, things vary by location: in Tel Aviv a large proportion of restaurants are non-kosher, while in West Jerusalem nearly all restaurants are kosher. Restaurants that remain open on Shabbat cannot receive kosher certification. So some restaurants serve kosher food while not being certified, but not every restaurant that claims this is strict about the other kosher rules. One attraction for practicing Jewish (and other) tourists is the kosher McDonald's restaurants. Most of the branches are not kosher, Kosher McDonald's branches are marked with a blue background, as opposed to the familiar red background.. Burger Ranch, an Israeli burger chain, is kosher. Pizza Hut branches in Israel are kosher, and thus will not serve pizzas with meat toppings, while Domino's chains are not kosher, and serve a toppings selection similar to their Western branches. The word for kosher is pronounced '''''kasher''''' (כָּשֵר) in Modern Hebrew, while the Hebrew word for "fitness" is '''Kosher''' (in Israel, gyms are known as ''kheder kosher'', i.e. ''fitness room''). The words have the same root – kosher food is food that is "fit" to eat for religious Jews. ====Dietary restrictions during Passover==== Another series of strict restrictions come into force during the seven days of Passover, when '''leavened bread''' (''Hametz'') &mdash; taken to include ''any'' grain product that may have come into contact with moisture and thus started fermenting &mdash; is banned. The religiously defined limit is 18 minutes. Any grain product that's come into contact with water for more than 18 minutes is considered "hametz". Some Jews even widen the ban to cover rice and legumes. The main substitute for the bread is ''matza'', the famously dry and tasteless flatbread, and you can even get a matzoburger from McDonald's during Passover. [[File:Leavened foods concealed behind plastic at Jerusalem supermarket during Passover.jpg|thumb|Hametz products in supermarkets are hidden during Passover]] Religious sectors will completely remove Hametz from their properties. Because the restriction is only for 7 days, many shops don't remove Hametz from shelves and vending machines, but only cover them or visually hide them. In more observant shops, cashier machines will not recognize the Hametz products during Passover, so it'd be hard to purchase them even after they are un-hidden. === Prominent local snacks === [[File:BoxkremboS.jpg|thumb|Krembo]] * {{listing | name=Krembo | alt=קרמבו A hybrid of the words ''KREM'' and ''BO'', "Cream" and "In it", respectively | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chocolate-coated marshmallow treats | image=Schokokuss2.jpg | wikidata=Q1578239 | content=A favorite Israeli chocolate snack. It is composed of a round cookie, on which cream (most often vanilla-flavored, but there is also a mocha variety) lies, covered with a chocolate shell. Krembos come wrapped in aluminum foil, and are very delicate. They are rarely found in the summer due to their tendency to melt in hot weather. }} * {{listing | name=Bamba | alt=במבה | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bamba (snack) | image=Bamba snack.jpg | wikidata=Q1349413 | content=A popular peanut butter-flavored snack which is one of the leading snack foods produced and sold in Israel. Israelis have low rates of peanut allergies, because they eat Bamba as kids. }} * {{listing | name=Bissli | alt=ביסלי | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bissli | wikidata=Q4918476 | content=A popular wheat snack sold in various flavors such as onions, Falafel and barbecue. }} === Ethnic food === Jews immigrating to Israel from different parts of the world brought with them many different cooking traditions. Most of these are now served in a handful of specialty restaurants, so check the individual chapters and ask around. Among the selection: Ashkenazi (Eastern European Jewish), Bulgarian, Turkish, North African, Iraqi, Iranian, Indian and Ethiopian. One can also enjoy excellent local Arab cuisine served in areas with large Arab populations, mostly in the north of the country and in the vicinity of Jerusalem. [[File:Chamin.jpg|thumb|"Chamin" or "Cholent"]] One dish, however, is known across nearly the entire Jewish Diaspora. Known in Europe as ''Cholent'' and in the Middle East and North Africa as ''Chamin'', it is a sort of stew that has simmered for many hours over a low fire. It is traditionally a Shabbat dish, originating from the prohibition on lighting fire and cooking on Shabbat. The exact ingredients vary, but it usually contains meat (usually beef or chicken), legumes (chickpeas or beans) and\or rice, eggs, and vegetables such as potatoes, onions, and carrots. Chamin is served in some restaurants on Saturday, and can be bought in delicatessens on Friday. Most Israelis enjoy instant coffee and will order it in restaurants and shops. The quality of this coffee is often quite high. However, Israelis also appreciate a '''café culture'''. While concoctions such as "botz" (mud) coffee, also known as "cafe turki" or Turkish coffee (an inexpensive extra-finely ground coffee, often spiced with cardamom, that is cooked on a stove and served unfiltered/unstrained) are popular, the coffee culture in Israel has become refined and the quality has drastically increased in the last couple of decades. High quality espresso has replaced instant coffee as the base of most coffee drinks. There are several highly popular local coffee chains and numerous independent coffee shops. Many Israelis like to just spend time sipping their café latté (the most popular coffee in cafés) and chatting with friends. You can also have a light meal with sandwiches and salads. '''Aroma''' is Israel's largest coffee chain that has good coffee. You can order sandwiches there in three sizes and choose from three types of bread. '''Arcaffé''' is slightly more expensive, but their coffee is a little better. Other chains include '''Elite Coffee''', '''cafe cafe''', '''Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf''', and '''Cafe Hillel''' (of which some branches are Kosher dairy). Israelis frown upon US-style coffee, and Starbucks failed miserably in Israel because their coffee was considered inferior by the locals. ===Vegetarians and vegans=== [[File:Israeli salad.jpg|thumbnail|Israeli salad]] Vegetarians and vegans should have a relatively easy time eating in Israel. Due to the kosher law against mixing meat and milk, there are many "dairy" restaurants that serve no meat, which makes them popular with vegetarians. Be aware that these often serve fish. In some parts of the country you can also find vegan restaurants. [[Amirim]] is a vegetarian/vegan village in the [[Upper Galilee]] with several restaurants. "Israeli Salad" (sometimes called Arab or Chopped salad) is a chopped salad of finely diced tomato and cucumber. It is very common and can be found virtually in every food-serving establishment. It is common for sit-down restaurants to indicate on their menus which dishes are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. ==Drink== ===Alcoholic beverages=== The drinking age in Israel is '''18'''. Drinking and driving is illegal and actively prosecuted. Also, sale of alcohol outside of bars and restaurants and public drinking are prohibited between 23:00 and 05:00. The most active nightlife can be found in Tel Aviv and Eilat. Tel Aviv, "the city that never sleeps", is Israel's party capital with a vast number of bars and clubs. Compared to much of Europe, drinking is rather expensive and the steep prices in Tel Aviv in particular are sometimes cited as a reason for the rather large community of young Israeli expats in [[Berlin]]. ====Beer==== [[File:Goldstar and Maccabee.jpg|thumb|Maccabee and Goldstar - Israeli beers]] There are three main brands of Israeli beer: * '''Goldstar''' — a Munich-style dark draught, it is the most popular Israeli beer in Israel. Can be found in bottles and cans of 0.5 and 0.3 liters (1 pint and half a pint, respectively), or חצי ''KHE-tsi'' and שליש ''shlish'' (Hebrew for "half" and "third". Referring to the amount based on litres, as Israel uses SI units). It is also available from tap (מהחבית ''meh ha-kha-VIT'', Hebrew for "from the barrel"). Some say it pairs deliciously with Bissli, a snack food indigenous to the area. * '''Maccabee''' — a pilsner, lighter and smoother than Goldstar. Comes in bottles, cans or from tap. This beer has a bad reputation in Israel as being of foul taste. Its recipe has been changed and the beer has been regaining popularity in Israel. Still, due to its bad reputation many bars do not serve it. The local variety of ''Maccabee'' tastes differently than the exported one. * '''Nesher''' — comes in bottles, mostly malt. Palestinian beers are also available: * '''Taybeh''' — made in the first micro-brewery in the Middle East, "Taybeh Beer Brewery" is from [[Taybeh]] village, a short taxi ride distance from [[Ramallah]], an extremely fresh and delicious beer that is popular with many Palestinians, Israelis and tourists alike. It is mainly found in Israeli Arab communities, Jerusalem, and Palestinian cities. Taybeh Brewery offers free tours of the facilities and has ₪5 beers for sale at the brewery. Taybeh village also hosts its very own Oktoberfest-style beer festival held annually during the first week of October. The festival well-attended with foreign tourists and is growing in popularity. Lately, several brands of micro-breweries have established themselves, and a wide selection of boutique beers such as Sins-Brewery, Bazelet, Golda, Laughing Buddha, Asif, Dancing Camel and many others can be found in selected alcohol houses and in some chain retail stores. In addition, a wide variety of international brands are available throughout Israel, some of which are locally brewed. Among the most popular are Heineken, Carlsberg and Tuborg. ====Liqueurs==== A common liqueur in Israel is '''Arak'''. It is clear, and anise-flavored, quite similar to Pastis or the Colombian Aguardiente. It is usually served in a glass of about 0.3&nbsp;L, mixed with equal amount of water and ice leading to a characteristic milk-like opaqueness. Some like to drink it mixed with grapefruit juice. Arak is usually kept in the freezer. A common brand is called Aluf Ha-Arak and Elit Ha-Arak (both of the same distillery) with the former of higher alcohol per volume and the latter of stronger anise flavor. They are of slightly different volume although the price is accordingly different. ====Wines==== [[File:BarkanWinery.jpg|thumb|Barkan Winery, Israel]] There are several local big vineyards and a growing selection of boutique ones, some of them of high quality. Wine is mentioned in the Torah and Israeli winemaking tradition goes back to before the [[Roman Empire|Roman conquest]]. Much of Israeli wine is kosher. Kosher wine has historically had a terrible reputation that is mostly unjustified in the 21st century and has been fading due to the good quality of many kosher wines becoming more widely known among connoisseurs and the wider public alike. The [[Golan Heights]] are among the premier wine growing regions under Israeli control.<!--are there wine tours or the like?--> ===Soft drinks=== Most of the regular Western soft drinks are available, and many have local variants that aren't very different in taste. The Coca-Cola Company, RC Cola, and PepsiCo fight for the soft drink market aggressively. Israeli Coca-Cola is thought by Cola connoisseurs to be tastier and more authentic than elsewhere, because it is made with sugar, not with high-fructose corn syrup. Tempo (not to be confused with Tempo Industries, Ltd. which is the brewer of most Israeli beer and bottler of most soft drinks including the local Pepsi) and Super Drink are dirt-cheap local variants, at times sporting very weird tastes. The generic name for Coke or Pepsi is "cola", and it usually implies Coca-Cola; if the place serves Pepsi, they will usually ask if it's fine. "Soda" generally means "soda water", and is not a generic name for carbonated soft drinks. There are several more authentic soft drinks: * '''Tropit''' — cheap fruit flavor drink which is usually grape. Comes in a tough aluminum-like bag with a straw. The bag is poked using the straw to make a hole through which you drink. A very portable drink (until holed), which has become very popular in summer camps. In the newer varieties there is a marked area where the straw should be inserted. Even then it can sometimes take practice to insert the straw without the juice squirting out, it's similar to "Capri Sun." * '''Chocolate milk''' — there are a number of brands of sterilized chocolate milk (SHO-ko) which comes in plastic bags and small cartons. The tip of the bag is bitten or clipped off, and the milk is sucked out. As with Tropit, it is very portable (although due to its milky nature, not as much) until opened, after which it is impractical to reseal. Chocolate milk in a bag is usually served cold, and it would be a very bad idea to warm it. * '''Spring Nectar''' — fruit flavored drinks that come in cans or 1.5L bottles. Sold in most supermarkets, convenience stores and petrol stations, as well as many take-away stands. Comes in a number of flavors such as peach, mango, and strawberry. * '''Prigat''' — fruit flavored drink that comes in plastic bottles. Is sold at pretty much every supermarket, petrol station and corner-store around Israel. Comes in many flavors including grape, orange, apple, tomato and a few more exotic options as well. * '''Primor''' — fruit juice in plastic bottles. Sold pretty much everywhere. Comes in many flavors, mostly citrus and apples. ==Sleep== [[File:Hilton, Tel Aviv.jpg|thumb|Major western hotel groups have properties in Israel]] Israel is host to a huge variety of accommodation options, from camping and [[hostels]] through to 5-star luxury hotels. Accommodation in Israel is similar to Western standards in general both in terms of price and what you can expect as service. Hotels in Israel do not have star ratings, so beware that where these are seen, they are awarded by the hotels themselves. Hostel/hotel owners in Israel do not appreciate it when you turn up onsite and ask for the best price leaving out the monopolistic middle man. Hence, you should instead book online (through their website, or one of the many commercial websites) or by phone, and take the best price you can get. Also, accommodations seem to use confusing US$ quotes and then demand shekels on purpose to prevent comparability. Make sure to always get the shekel (NIS) quote and demand to pay what was agreed on in shekels. There are many '''free camp grounds''' available in Israel, especially in the [[Negev#Sleep|Negev]], which offer a great alternative to save some money. Most of the time you won't even need a tent, because rain and mosquitoes (and such) are sparse in the Negev. Further remarks: * [http://www.hostels-Israel.com Israel Hostels ('''ILH''')]{{Dead link|date=January 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, a network of 40 independent hostels, guest houses and lodges designed for independent travellers. They hand out ''visiting cards'' you can use at the next ILH to get 5% discount, so ask for them. Even so, make sure to confirm the price beforehand by calling or online, the quoted prices from their website/flyers do not always seem to be reliable. * [http://www.iyha.org.il Israel Youth Hostel Association ('''IYHA''')] runs a thriving network of youth hostels, but is generally more expensive than the former one. * [http://www.israelhotels.org.il The Israel Hotel Association (IHA)] {{dead link|December 2020}} is the umbrella organization for Israel's hotels and also represents them. About 350 hotels, from Metulla in the North to Eilat in the South, are members of the IHA. * A large number of [[kibbutzim]] now include bed and breakfast accommodation among their activities. * A number of private residencies (popular in northern communities) offer a room to let (commonly known as "zimmer", from the German word for room). * Israel has a number of 3–4 star hotel chains. * Israel has a large number of boutique hotels and one large chain of boutique hotels, [http://www.atlas.co.il Atlas Hotels] * In the Negev Desert, there are multiple Bedouin camps that offer shelter and an unforgettable desert experience. You may be able to ride a camel, depending on the camp. * Due to a Jewish religious prohibition on couples sharing a bed during certain periods in the woman's menstrual cycle, most king-sized beds at hotels are actually two smaller beds pushed together, which can be separated if necessary. It is therefore possible for two travellers who are not in a romantic relationship to book a room with one king bed if nothing else is available, then separate it into two separate beds. ==Learn== Traditional Jewish culture places a strong emphasis on education and scholarship, and the country has many well-regarded universities. Special programs for students from abroad are offered by the [http://overseas.huji.ac.il/ Rothberg International School] at the [http://www.huji.ac.il/huji/eng/index_e.htm Hebrew University] in [[Jerusalem]], the [http://www.tau.ac.il/overseas/ Lowy School for Overseas Students] at [http://english.tau.ac.il/ Tel-Aviv University]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and the [http://www.bgu.ac.il/osp/ Ginsburg-Ingerman Center for International Student Programs]{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} at the [http://www.bgu.ac.il/ Ben-Gurion University of the Negev] in [[Beer Sheva|Be'er Sheva]]. Also the [https://www.technion.ac.il/en Technion] in [[Haifa]] and [http://portal.idc.ac.il/en/schools/rris/homepage/Pages/homepage.aspx Recanati International School]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} in the [http://portal.idc.ac.il/en/main/homepage/Pages/homepage.aspx Interdisciplinary Centre in Herzliya]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offer international programmes for foreign students. The [http://www.yadvashem.org/education International School for Holocaust Studies]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} at [http://www.yad-vashem.org.il/ Yad Vashem]{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} in West [[Jerusalem]] also offers a variety of educational options relating to the Holocaust or you could also use your time in Israel to study Hebrew. Hebrew school is called ''Ulpan'' (pl. ''Ulpanim''). There are even ways to learn Hebrew online from outside Israel - try [http://www.hebrewlanguageguide.com Hebrew Online Guide]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, or [http://www.ulpan.net Virtual Ulpan] if you want some basic background for free. A good starting point for finding more information on study and volunteering programs, can be found on the website of the [http://www.wzo.org.il World Zionist Organization]. If you are interested in learning firsthand about the social, political and cultural aspects of life in Israel, there are several programs and organizations offering courses, workshops or learning tours, such as: [http://www.allnationscafe.org The All Nations Café]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} in the Jerusalem - Bethlehem area. ==Work== If you are [[Jewish]] and plan on moving to Israel (''aliyah''), you will have more help finding a job. Generally speaking, it is close to impossible to immigrate to Israel unless you are Jewish or married to an Israeli citizen. Non-Jewish foreigners are typically restricted to working in Israel for no more than 5 years. One of the iconic activities in Israel is working ("volunteering") on a collective farm: a ''[[kibbutz]]'' or a ''moshav''. Another popular option is to volunteer for work on an [http://digs.bib-arch.org/ archaeological excavation], mostly conducted in summer at a variety of locations. Most Israeli excavations offer college/degree credit for international students. Working on a tourist visa is illegal. ==Stay safe== Emergency phone numbers: * Police (mish-ta-RA) &mdash; 100 * Ambulance Service ("Magen David Adom"-MADA, literally "Red Star of David") &mdash; 101 * Fire department (me-kha-BEY ESH) &mdash; 102 * Home Front Command (civil defense) &mdash; 104 * A list of rights for people who have been harmed during 2024 fighting, along with physical and mental support centers, is provided at the [https://www.btl.gov.il/English%20Homepage/About/Frequent_questions/HarvotBarzelOuestions/Pages/default.aspx National Insurance website]. There is a constant threat of rocket and missile attacks on Israel and terrorist attacks can occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to personal safety risks. There continues to be a high threat of military and terrorist attacks against Israel. The security situation can deteriorate rapidly, without prior notice. Therefore, it is recommended to check your country’s travel advisories a few hours before your trip. As conditions can change rapidly. Even in relatively calm times, driving a car with Israeli license plates (yellow plates) to Palestinian cities in the West Bank can pose a significant risk to your life. The Palestinian population is unaware that there are tourists in the vehicle. Therefore, pay attention to red signs on roads in the West Bank indicating areas under Palestinian control that are prohibited from entry with Israeli vehicles. An exception is the road from Jerusalem to the Dead Sea, which is safe and should not pose a risk to travelers. In terms of typical crime, in tourist areas, crime rates are similar to those in European cities, and the centers of large cities are safe at night. The exception is Tel Aviv's central bus station and its surrounding, which are not safe, especially at night. Otherwise, Israel is safe for women traveling alone. For added safety, it is recommended not to walk around in tank tops and shorts in cities where the majority of the population is conservative, such as Jerusalem, Nazareth and Safed. ===Rocket attacks === When a rocket attack is detected as being fired towards Israel, alerts are provided in several means: * A rising-and-falling audible siren alarm * Notification messages on smartphone apps * TV notification – major TV channels show an overlay with an orange colored notification [[File:Pakar tv alerts.svg|thumb|Rocket attack alert, as shown as an overlay in major TV channels]] Smartphone apps that provide such an alarm work either by GPS location, or pre-defined alert location. Some of these apps are: * {{Listing | name=Home Front Command - Official App‏ | url=https://www.oref.org.il/eng | email= | lastedit=2024-10-20 | content= provides alerts, the official and up-to-date guidelines and information in real time according to location and areas of interest, along with updates during emergencies. The app supports smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. The app is available in Hebrew, Arabic, Russian and English. Their website includes real-time alerts (as do most Israeli news websites), additional information, and long term alerts log.}} * {{listing | name=Tzofar-Red Alert | alt=צופר צבע אדום | url=https://www.tzevaadom.co.il/systems/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-10-20 | content=An additional app, with alerts provided through google-chrome extension, browser tab, and alert logs and maps through telegram, WhatsApp, X (Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. }} * Red Alert:Israel Please note that due to the need to stay online 24/7 these apps may prevent devices from going into energy-saving and data-saving modes (depends on device and capabilities), so they may drain faster than usual. Upon receiving an alert for a rocket attack, the time you have to defend yourself may vary. As a general rule, the closer you are to the launch site the less time you have following the start of the alert. If you are in a border town, for example, you only have fifteen seconds before the rocket lands. When an alarm sounds, you must take cover according to these instructions: * Enter a nearby Shelter. Depending on the building the shelter can be inside apartments, a shared shelter for every floor in the building, or a shared basement shelter for the entire building. About half of all buildings in Israel have a shelter, and there are public shelters available in many common areas within Israeli cities. If you are in public, look for where other people go. * In a building without a shelter, enter the most protected room. This may be the inner-most room, or a staircase (when it is not external). If you are in a building, be sure to note where your nearest shelter is. * when outside head for a building, and place yourself as far as you can from windows, or other fragile objects near the windows. * When no building is nearby, lie down on your belly and put your hands on your head. * When in a vehicle and not enough time to leave it, bend down below the windows height, and use your hand or nees to protect the head. [https://www.oref.org.il/12410-en/Pakar.aspx?tab=13072&parentCategory=13071 The full and updated list of instructions is available on HFC's website]{{cbignore}}. You should remain in the safe place for 10 minutes from the moment the alarm sounds, for fear of falling shrapnel. The most powerful rockets are capable of hitting nearly anywhere in the country, but most of the rockets impact: * In case of a conflict with the Gaza Strip, within a radius between Ashkelon in the west, Jerusalem in the east, Beersheba in the south, and Tel Aviv in the north. * In case of a conflict with Lebanon's Hezbollah, the area near or north of Haifa. If you are within these areas, be alert, and outside of these areas still be vigilant, as rockets from Gaza have hit Haifa, the Negev desert, and even the West Bank in the past. Israel's "Iron Dome" launches missiles to intercept incoming rockets, but only when they are headed toward populated areas. Also, it is not 100% effective, and even when it registers a "hit" it creates shrapnel which eventually reaches the ground. Make sure to check the calendar for memorial days (around April or May), when a commemoration siren is heard at 10:00 for 2 minutes during Holocaust Remembrance Day, and on Yom-Hazikaron at 20:00 for one minute and at 11:00 for two more minutes. Commemoration sirens don't rise and fall. In general, behave the way others around you do. ===LGBT=== [[File:Tel Aviv Gay Pride Parade 2014(5).jpg|thumbnail|Tel Aviv Gay Pride Parade 2014]] Unlike in much of the Middle East, homosexuality is legal in Israel. In fact, some gay rights advances happened in Israel earlier than in Western countries such as the U.S.A. Attitudes towards homosexuality will vary depending on where you go, but in general, Israel is considered safe for gays and lesbians, as violence is rare and open disapproval is mostly confined to certain parts of Jerusalem and religious neighborhoods. Same-sex marriages are legally recognized, although same-sex marriages are not performed in Israel. All three major cities (Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and Haifa) have an annual "Pride" parade, and the annual ''Love Parade'' in Tel Aviv gets cheering spectators too. Though Jerusalem has an annual pride parade (although due to the city's conservatism, it is more of a demonstration than a parade) it is not very common to see openly gay people in Jerusalem, and you should avoid openly showing your sexual orientation in most public places in Jerusalem or other visibly religious places. In general just try to avoid public displays of homosexual affection or conversation in a direct or suggestive manner in Jerusalem. While nothing serious is likely to happen to you, it will draw stares and identify you as a "tourist" at the very least. On the other hand, Tel Aviv is very liberal and gay friendly. It is common to see same-sex couples show affection in public areas. Tel Aviv was declared as the world's best gay travel destination for 2012 in a survey carried out by American Airlines and GayCities.com – for good reason: there are many gay friendly places around the city, considered a stronghold of the gay community in Israel. Tel Aviv's nights are full of hundreds of passionate, energetic pubs, bars and dance clubs that are open till dawn. The city is active in all areas of entertainment, and is highly recommended for tourists looking for exciting nightlife in general, and exciting gay nightlife in particular. ==Stay healthy== Emergency phone numbers: * {{listing | name=Ambulance Service | alt="Magen David Adom"-MADA, literally "Red Star of David" | url=https://www.mdais.org/en | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=101| tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | wikidata=Q577902 | lastedit=2023-10-30 | content= The national Ambulance and pre hospital emergency medical services, including first aid and on-site treatment. }} * {{listing | name=Eran | alt=ערן | url=https://en.eran.org.il/about/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=1201 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | wikidata=Q49164117 | lastedit=2023-10-30 | content=Lifesaving Emotional First Aid Services, offering initial response and emotional support on the phone(including SMS and whatsapp) and online (chat, email), while maintaining strict confidentiality and anonymity. Available language include English, Russian, Amharic, Arabic, French, Spanish. }} There are no special medical issues in Israel, and no immunizations are required for entry. Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended, though. Travelers to West Bank and Gaza should strongly consider getting a typhoid vaccine and Hepatitis B vaccine as well. Pharmacies and hospitals are available in all major cities and emergency and health care is to a very high Western standard. Pharmacists and all medical personnel speak adequate English. In Israeli pharmacies, the "over-the-counter" stuff is in fact over the counter. Ask the pharmacist if you need anything. Travel health insurance is highly recommended; although all Israelis are covered under the national health insurance system, foreigners will be expected to pay for any treatment received in the public hospitals or at a clinic. '''[[Tap water]]''' is potable and perfectly safe for drinking all throughout Israel (but not in the West Bank or Gaza), big cities and rural parts alike. However, avoid taps that you might find within cultivated fields (e.g. while hiking); they may use recycled water which is only good for irrigation. Tap water near the Dead Sea is heavily salinated and hotels will typically provide bottles of water for guests. Street food is safe and clean, including fried dishes, fish and different salads. It still is wise to use common sense and avoid anything suspicious. The hot climate in Israel is a major issue, especially at summer. Use sunscreen throughout your stay and drink a lot of water. See also [[sunburn and sun protection]]. ===In desert and rural areas=== Southern Israel desert region offers amazing hiking trails in a beautiful landscape that possesses some unique geographical features not available anywhere else in the world. However, if you are inexperienced in hiking in the desert, do not hike there without an experienced hiker, proper equipment and clothes, plenty of water, and taking the necessary precautions. Dehydration on hot days, hypothermia on cold nights, and flash floods on rainy days are serious dangers! ==Cope== ===Media=== [[File:Yediot7825.JPG|thumb|Newspaper stand in Jerusalem]] Israel has numerous newspapers, radio stations, podcasts, and magazines. ====Newspapers==== In English: * {{listing | name=The Jerusalem Post | alt= | url=http://www.jpost.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The Jerusalem Post | wikidata=Q35438 | content=A daily newspaper in English, published in Israel, generally right-wing. }} * {{listing | name=The Times of Israel | alt= | url=http://www.timesofisrael.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A newer Jerusalem-based online newspaper published in English, Arabic, French and Persian, that doesn't have a printed edition. Generally centrist. }} Other major Israeli newspapers that have an English language section to their websites include: * {{listing | name=Ynet | alt=Yediot Ahronot | url=http://www.ynetnews.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ynet | wikidata=Q2738307 | content=Non-intellectual and left-wing. }} * {{listing | name=Israel Hayom | alt=Israel Today | url=http://www.israelhayom.com/site/today.php | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Israel Hayom | wikidata=Q1632726 | content=Non-intellectual and right-wing. }} * {{listing | name=Globes | alt= | url=http://globes.co.il/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Globes | wikidata=Q2350278 | content=Focuses on business. }} * {{listing | name=Haaretz | alt= | url=http://www.haaretz.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Haaretz | image=Newspapers.jpg | wikidata=Q216393 | content=Intellectual and left-wing. }} Other languages: * {{listing | name=Vesti | alt=Russian: Вести | url=https://www.vesty.co.il/main | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Vesti (Israeli newspaper) | wikidata=Q1987800 | content=The most widely read Russian-language paper in Israel. }} * {{listing | name=Makan | alt=قناة مكان | url=https://www.makan.org.il | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= |wikidata= | content=Arabic edition of Kan corporations. }} * {{listing | name=Panorama | alt=بانوراما | url=http://www.panet.co.il/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= |wikidata=Q224135 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Al-Sinnara | alt=الصنارة | url=http://www.sonara.net/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6039750 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Ynet Español | alt= | url=https://www.ynetespanol.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2738307 | content= }} Local newspapers in other languages may be available where demand exists. ====Radio and TV==== * {{listing | name= Kan English news | alt= | url=https://www.kan.org.il/radio/program.aspx?progId=1158 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation | wikidata=Q25496011 | content=English news by Kan. }} * {{listing | name= Reka | alt= | url=http://www.kan.org.il/live/radio.aspx?stationId=10 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Israel Radio International | wikidata=Q910304 | content=Radio station broadcasts in several languages, including English (20:00), French (21:00), Spanish (22:00), Georgian (12:00), Bukhori (12:30), Amharic (13:00, 19:00), and several programs in Russian. It can be received at 100.3MHz FM, 100.5MHz FM, 101.3MHz FM, 101.8MHz FM. Programs include local culture and news. }} * {{listing | name=i24news | alt= | url=http://www.i24news.tv/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=I24news | wikidata=Q13612085 | content=an internet TV station with many broadcasts about Israel. It has an English feed, along with Arabic and French versions. }} * {{listing | name=AudioVersity | alt=formerly IDC Radio | url=https://1062fm.co.il/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya | wikidata=Q2908845 | content=College radio station, broadcasting Reichman University (formerly the Interdisciplinary center, IDC), Herzliya. }} * Virtually all TV stations present all TV shows in their original language, along with Hebrew subtitles (sometimes with additional Russian or Arabic subtitles). The common exceptions are shows for young kids, which are dubbed to Hebrew. * It is common to randomly find other Israeli radio stations broadcasting interviews and complete radio shows in English. ===Embassies and consulates=== Most foreign embassies are situated in the [[Tel Aviv]] metropolitan area, largely because the status of the capital city, [[Jerusalem]], is disputed. Only five countries have embassies in Jerusalem: the [[United States]], [[Honduras]], [[Guatemala]], [[Kosovo]] and [[Papua New Guinea]]. From a practical standpoint, consulates often offer similar services for travelers as embassies, and most first world countries have a consulate in Jerusalem in addition to their embassy in Tel Aviv. ==Respect== In general, Israelis are friendly, hospitable, and welcoming. The country as a whole has a Western-oriented outlook on life. Foreign visitors are deeply appreciated by the locals and they will do just about anything to make you feel comfortable and welcome in the country. Strangers will be more than happy to assist you, help you with anything you need, inquire about you and your background, and give you advice on anything. If you manage to make some friends here, they will do their best to take care of you here. There's no way to sugarcoat it, so let's cut to the chase: yes, Israelis in general are '''direct communicators'''. This style of communication (known as 'dugriut') is a feature of the Israeli cultural ethos and can be construed as rude, abrupt, or confrontational in many parts of the world. Try not to be offended or annoyed by the way Israelis speak to you; in most cases, Israelis ''rarely intend'' to offend you in any way, shape, or form. Directness and honesty are often valued over projections of niceness. Israel is an egalitarian society. Because it's a society that thrives on transparent communication, it's not uncommon for subordinates to disagree with their superiors. It's perfectly normal, and is expected. Loud and heated debates and arguments are socially acceptable and should not be taken as a sign of hostility. Israelis are typically careful not to be perceived as a ''fraier'', often translated as "sucker", meaning someone who pays too much, stands in line quietly as others jostle past, and is generally taken advantage of instead of standing up for himself. In religious settings, appropriate attitudes and prohibitions should be in order. Entry to most religious sites will be refused to those who aren't dressed appropriately (e.g. wearing shorts, short skirts, tank tops, and so on). When visiting a synagogue or the prayers section of the Western Wall, men should cover their heads. If you don't have one, a kiosk by the door of the site you are visiting may provide you with one. Mosques will also require you to take off your shoes before entry. Outside locations significant to religion, dress is very casual and free. Israeli women dress to impress. Similar to other Mediterranean countries, business wear is not accepted, and locals in most business sectors, including finance, do not wear business wear but business casual. === Sensitive issues === '''The Arab-Israeli conflict''' Most Israelis will be happy to talk to foreigners about the conflict, especially because of the feeling that your home country does not present the conflict properly and does not understand its complexity. However, try to listen and not argue. Israelis live the conflict, and expressing disagreement with their words may lead to angry reactions. In general, with most Jewish Israelis, expressing sympathy or understanding for the Palestinian struggle will not be accepted, since it has many victims on the Israeli side. Among other things, try to use the term Palestinian Authority rather than the State of Palestine, because most Israelis do not recognize the Palestinian territories as a state, and also refer to the area also called the "West Bank" as "Judea and Samaria" while speaking with Israelis who are not Arabs. '''Haredi Jews''' Many of you are probably familiar with the closed, devout Jewish communities with traditional dress that are found in large numbers in Brooklyn and North London. In Israel, they can be seen mainly in Jerusalem, where they make up half of all Jews. These populations are more likely to expect you to behave according to their lifestyle in Israel, and will be less tolerant of foreigners than in English-speaking countries. Especially if you are in their neighborhoods—the entire area north of Jaffa Street in Jerusalem, for example—it is recommended not to enter with shorts or sleeveless shirts (especially for women). During the Jewish Sabbath, it is forbidden to enter their neighborhoods with vehicles at all, and it is recommended not to take pictures there. Although if you are not Jewish, you can be considered a Shabbat goy: that is, they will ask you for help in doing things that Jews are forbidden to do on Shabbat. '''Other Politics''' Israeli politics is a sensitive subject, and the government is a major point of contention, mainly between upper-middle-class liberal secularists and generally lower-class Orthodox Jews regarding the nature of the State of Israel and the balance between Jewish law and democratic values. Talking about politics is therefore very emotional among Israelis. In general, older people are more enthusiastic about talking about domestic politics than younger people, who often shy away from it. ==Connect== ===By mail=== * {{listing | name=Surface and sea mail | alt= | url=https://israelpost.co.il/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021 | content=Postcards to Europe cost ₪3.20. This is still an option, even though many will try to make you believe the ₪7.40 airmail is the only option. However, just go to the post office and demand the cheaper stamp. Be insistent and refer to the price sheet they have posted within the post office [https://services.israelpost.co.il/npostcalc.nsf/calculator2?OpenForm or online] &ndash; there you will find the international surface mail option listed. }} * {{listing | name=Air mail | alt= | url=https://israelpost.co.il/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021 | content=Postcards and letters up to weight of 100 g cost between ₪6.50 and ₪9, depending on the country of destination. }} ===By phone=== +972 is the international country code for Israel. When calling inside Israel, you can either dial the number exactly as listed in Wikivoyage from mobiles and many landlines '''or''' replace the "+972" part with a single leading 0. (In the first form, you dial the number without spaces and hyphens, optionally replacing the "+" symbol with the international access code; when the party being called is in the same country as the caller, internationally-dialed numbers are looped back at the base station.) For example, when calling +972 2 345 6789 inside Israel, dial 02 345 6789 or +97223456789 as-is, or 0097223456789. The type of call influences its price. Types can be international (with different price per each destination country in each service provider), local landline, landline - mobile, and mobile. Except for international calls, all other calls are usually priced the same, but you might find minor differences. Other than that, identifying the carrier of your call destination is irrelevant, as the allocation of dialing codes to particular companies may be inaccurate, since subscribers may keep their phone number even if leaving or changing their phone company. For example, new 050 codes are allocated by Pelephone company, but users can switch carriers and keep their 050 number even when receiving service from the Cellcom company which is usually identified with the 052 code. Landline area codes: * 0x - Area codes &ndash; the 0x area codes are used for land lines operated by the national phone company - Bezeq. Other landline operators have distinctive area codes :* 02 - Jerusalem area :* 03 - Tel Aviv-Yafo and the center :* 04 - North :* 08 - South & Shfela :* 09 - Sharon :* 0x2 - Paltel (Palestinian operator) * 07x - landlines operated by VoB and <abbr title="Voice over Internet Protocol">VoIP</abbr> technologies with no distinction to a particular region. These may be assigned anywhere. :* 072 - 012 Smile :* 073-2/3/7 - Cellcom / Netvision :* 074-7 - Partner :* 076-5 - 014 Bezeq International :* 077 - HOT International access codes: * 01x - International access codes &ndash; If you want to call abroad from Israel, you need to choose which company you want to use for your international call first. :* The '00' and '+' access codes for international calls are available only on phone lines that chose, in advance, one of the long distance carriers as their preferred provider. It is not available on pay phones. :* 011 - [https://www.011global.com/?l=en 011Global] :* 013 - Cellcom / Netvision :* 014 - [https://www.bezeqint.net/english/at-home/international-calls Bezeq International]{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} :* 015 - Hallo :* 017 - Hot Mobile :* 018 - Xfone, a VOIP operator. Thus, it has the cheapest rate but a somewhat lower line quality. :* 019 - Telzar Cellular: * 05x - Cellular carriers :* 050 - Pelephone (literally "miracle phone", the first cellular operator in Israel. "Pelephone" has became a generic name for cellular phone in Israel). :* 052 - Cellcom :* 053 - [https://www.hotmobile.co.il/HOTmobile_en/Pages/default.aspx HOT mobile]{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} :* 054 - Partner :* 055 - MVNO (Mobile virtual network operators) :* 056 - Wataniya Mobile (Palestinian operator) :* 057 - Mirs. This was the old network of "HOT mobile". All those numbers replaced their prefix to 053 with the rest of the number unchanged. So if you try to reach an old 057 number, try dialing 053 instead. :* 058 - [https://www.golantelecom.co.il/web/ Golan Telecom] :* 059 - Jawwal (Palestinian operator) Some Israeli numbers have only 3, 4, or 5 digits and starting with a *. To dial those numbers you actually dial the number on the phone pad, including the *. For example, the number *8787 is used by the national public transportation information call center. These * numbers work depending on your operator, with most of the numbers supported in landlines, and partial support in cellular networks. Usually when a * number is published, a longer number is mentioned somewhere in the footnotes. The longer number is also the way to dial the number when calling from a foreign international line. ==== Cellphone rentals and prepaid phone service ==== You can rent a cellphone for use in Israel either before your trip or once you arrive, from several firms. You can also rent smartphones with SIM cards included sometimes for lower than the cost of renting just a SIM card. This offers the advantages of a SIM card rental without having to worry about bringing your own phone to Israel. If you have a cellphone without a SIM-lock, you can buy a SIM-card. Prepaid SIM cards are available at Pelephone (Talk&Go), Cellcom (Talk Man), Partner (Bigtalk), HotMobile, Golan Telecom (GolanTalk), Rami-Levi, and 019 Telzar phone stores throughout Israel. Almost all shopping malls will have a Pelephone, Cellcom or Partner kiosk or store. Local prepaid packages valid for a month with 300G of data and 2,000 minutes of local calls should cost less than ₪100. Prepaid websites in English: * {{listing | name=Partner (bigtalk) | alt= | url=https://www.partner.co.il/u/bigtalk_packages | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q2000500 | lastedit=2021-03-13 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Golan (GolanTalk) | alt= | url=https://www.golantelecom.co.il/golan_talk | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q2894259 | lastedit=2021-03-13 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Hallo 015 | alt= | url=https://015.co.il/015Mobile/ | email=callcenter@hallo.co.il | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 646 335 0274 | tollfree=+1 800 015 015 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-03-13 | content= }} * {{listing | name=019 | alt= | url=https://019mobile.com | email= info@019mobile.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 929 237 1682 or +972 55 9912345 | tollfree= | hours=Callcenter: Sunday to Thursday: 08:00 - 22:00, Friday: From 08:00 – 13:00 | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q6563841 | lastedit=2021-03-13 | content= }} ==== Roaming with your own device ==== Israel is mostly covered with 4G and 5G. Other networks like CDMA2000 and iDen were shut down. Previous generation 2G and 3G networks have very limited coverage, and all of them are planned to be completely shut down by the end of 2024. In any case, you must check with your carrier about the roaming option and the compatibility of your device in advance. A valid suggestion otherwise is to turn ''off'' data services, especially any automatic update/download of your email. Otherwise you might get an unpleasant surprise on your next phone bill! Buying a local SIM card is easy from many phone kiosks near popular tourist sites, perhaps even your hotel. eSim is also available through [https://skycall.co.il/en/ SkyCall] and other providers. Subscription packages in Israel can be cancelled at any time. You'd have to pay only for the relative time the subscription was active, without additional cancellation costs. There is no minimum time frame for any subsciption package. ===By net=== Cellular internet is cheaper than in countries like the US, and it is recommended to use it along with your cell phone plan. Free WiFi on buses and in cafes is common but not universal. ==Go next== * Many travelers take day trips or longer trips to places in [[Jordan]], such as [[Petra]]. It is easy to get into Jordan by crossing from [[Eilat]] to [[Aqaba]], but also the [[Jordan#King Hussein "Allenby" Bridge|King Hussein "Allenby" Bridge]] and the '''Sheikh Hussein bridge''' are options. * Many Israelis visit the [[Sinai]] to scuba dive, but the area can be susceptible to terrorism, so check current conditions before you go. Other areas of [[Egypt]] can also be included in combined tours with Israel. * The nearby island of [[Cyprus]] is also a favorite vacation spot for Israelis. {{related|Public transit in Israel}} {{related|Israel National Parks}} {{related|Hiking and Backpacking in Israel}} {{isPartOf|Middle East}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|31.4|35.0|zoom=8}} i6uf4ia5ni08nyuhuy4eoxbnhnwf08a 0 16302 5091174 4982568 2025-07-11T03:23:21Z Gerode 2196717 Added a bit of Understand content, rewrote Do to emphasize cave tours and update listings, copyediting 5091174 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Jewel Cave National Monument banner.jpg}} '''Jewel Cave National Monument''' is in the [[Badlands and Black Hills|Black Hills]] of [[South Dakota]]. The cave is the third longest known cave in the world, with over {{mi|208}} of mapped and surveyed passages as of 2020, and more being added each year. The cave was named after the large amounts of calcite (calcium carbonate) crystals found in the cave. ==Understand== ===History=== {{infobox|The 2000 Jasper Fire|On August 24, 2000 a wildfire started near Jewel Cave. The fire burned 83,508 acres in the [[Black Hills]] and nearly 90% of Jewel Cave National Monument's land area.}} Two brothers, Frank and Albert Michaud, discovered a strong breeze emerging from a small opening in a hillside. They enlarged the entrance enough to explore inside, and quickly filed a mining claim in 1900. The brothers intended to transform the cave into a tourist attraction, but the remote location of the cave precluded it from being a commercial success. In 1908, US President Theodore Roosevelt set aside the cave as a National Monument following a local movement to preserve the cave. ===Landscape=== Jewel Cave National Monument is in a large pine forest. The area is rebuilding itself after the [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/learn/nature/jasperfire.htm Jasper Fire in 2000]. Visitors can see this process. ===Flora and fauna=== There are many wildflowers in the National Monument. Where there is a cave, there is often bats. About 1,000 bats use caves to hibernate during the winter. Elk, mule deer, rabbits, squirrels, a variety of snakes, hawks, eagles, and other birds can be found in the area. ===Climate=== * Spring: Rain or snow is common. Temperatures vary. * Summer: Rain is common in June. Sunny and dry in July and August. Temperatures range from 70 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. * Fall: Mild temperatures and occasional rain or snow showers. * Winter: Cold temperatures are common with occasional snow. The cave itself is a constant, somewhat damp, {{F|49}}. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/index.htm Park website] * {{listing | name=Jewel Cave National Monument Visitor Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.7298 | long=-103.8295 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-07-02 | content=Begin your visit at the visitor center where there are an information desk, park store, exhibits, drinking fountain, restrooms, a theater for the park film, and elevators for the Scenic Tour and the Discovery Talk. The visitor center hours, kiosk, theater, and tour times vary by season. The visitor center is located below the parking lot and is accessible by a ramp or stairs. }} ==Get in== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The visitor center is on '''US Highway 16''', {{mi|13}} west of [[Custer]] and {{mi|24}} east of [[Newcastle (Wyoming)]]. ===By plane=== The nearest airport is in [[Rapid City]], {{mi|54}} from the visitor center. Car rental services are available. ==Fees and permits== Access to the above-ground portion of the monument is free. There are fees for the various cave tours, ranging from $16 to $45 for adults. The America the Beautiful (Interagency) Passes do not count towards these fees, nor provide any discounts in the park. ==Get around== The above-ground portion of the monument is only about {{sqmi|1}}. Walking paths and trails are found on the surface. ==See== *'''Wildflowers.''' There are copious amounts of wildflowers for the visitor's viewing pleasure. Do not pick, damage, or otherwise disturb the flowers. As you walk the trails, be cautious. ==Do== ===Cave tours=== '''All cave access is by guided tour only.''' The monument offers a number of tours throughout the day. * {{do | name=Scenic Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/scenictour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about once an hour | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The cave's most popular tour. See a variety of speleothems (cave formations). Moderately strenuous, lasts 1 hour 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Discovery Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/discoverytour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about every two hours | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A quick introduction to Jewel Cave's natural and cultural histories, at the large "Target Room." Easy (but with stairs), lasts 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Historic Lantern Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/lanterntour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Check in at the Historic Area, about {{mi|1}} west of the Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Sep, about five times daily | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Carry an old-style lantern {{mi|0.25}} down the original cave entrance, through narrow passageways and steep wooden steps. This tour is unpaved and requires some stooping, and lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Wild Caving Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/wildcavingtour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=May-Sep, select days | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Put on a hard hat and squeeze through the cave in its natural state. You scramble over cave "breakdown," chimney between cave walls, use a rope assist to climb a nearly vertical wall, and belly-crawl through tight passages; you must pass through an 8-1/2 inch by 24-inch crawl space before the tour. Along the way you learn about low-impact caving, caving techniques and safety. The tour lasts 3 to 4 hours. }} Tour sizes are limited in size. '''[https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/10088103 Tours can be reserved up to 2-3 months in advance on Recreation.gov]'''. Same day tickets are not guaranteed, and it is common for tours to sell out during the summer months. The cave is 49&deg;F (9.4&deg;C) year round. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. ===Hiking=== * {{do | name=Roof Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=South side of visitor center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|0.25}} loop. }} * {{do | name=Canyons Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=From the Roof Trail or the Historic Area | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|3.5}} loop. }} ===Birdwatching=== There are many birds to be seen in the National Monument, including the occasional bald eagle. As you walk the trails, keep an eye out. ==Buy== ==Eat and drink== Other than vending machines, there is no food service at the cave. The nearest restaurants are in Custer or Newcastle, Wyoming. Food and drink are not allowed in the cave. ==Sleep== There is no lodging in the National Monument. The nearest accommodations are in [[Custer]]. ===Backcountry=== Jewel Cave is surrounded by the '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]''', and, as with nearly all U.S. National Forests, you can pitch a tent pretty much anywhere as long as you get away from the road and do not go down any roads marked as private. ==Stay safe== A guided tour of the cave is quite safe. However, stay with the tour guide, as unmarked parts of the cave are not lit and it is easy to get lost. ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 16.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Gillette]] | minorl1=[[Moorcroft]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Rapid City]] | minorr1=[[Custer]] }} {{usablepark}} {{geo|43.729444|-103.829444}} {{isPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} ccnwp2wpt69niu0lx23v0zt4ulvzqsz 5091175 5091174 2025-07-11T03:28:58Z Gerode 2196717 /* Get around */ Added Historic Area 5091175 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Jewel Cave National Monument banner.jpg}} '''Jewel Cave National Monument''' is in the [[Badlands and Black Hills|Black Hills]] of [[South Dakota]]. The cave is the third longest known cave in the world, with over {{mi|208}} of mapped and surveyed passages as of 2020, and more being added each year. The cave was named after the large amounts of calcite (calcium carbonate) crystals found in the cave. ==Understand== ===History=== {{infobox|The 2000 Jasper Fire|On August 24, 2000 a wildfire started near Jewel Cave. The fire burned 83,508 acres in the [[Black Hills]] and nearly 90% of Jewel Cave National Monument's land area.}} Two brothers, Frank and Albert Michaud, discovered a strong breeze emerging from a small opening in a hillside. They enlarged the entrance enough to explore inside, and quickly filed a mining claim in 1900. The brothers intended to transform the cave into a tourist attraction, but the remote location of the cave precluded it from being a commercial success. In 1908, US President Theodore Roosevelt set aside the cave as a National Monument following a local movement to preserve the cave. ===Landscape=== Jewel Cave National Monument is in a large pine forest. The area is rebuilding itself after the [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/learn/nature/jasperfire.htm Jasper Fire in 2000]. Visitors can see this process. ===Flora and fauna=== There are many wildflowers in the National Monument. Where there is a cave, there is often bats. About 1,000 bats use caves to hibernate during the winter. Elk, mule deer, rabbits, squirrels, a variety of snakes, hawks, eagles, and other birds can be found in the area. ===Climate=== * Spring: Rain or snow is common. Temperatures vary. * Summer: Rain is common in June. Sunny and dry in July and August. Temperatures range from 70 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. * Fall: Mild temperatures and occasional rain or snow showers. * Winter: Cold temperatures are common with occasional snow. The cave itself is a constant, somewhat damp, {{F|49}}. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/index.htm Park website] * {{listing | name=Jewel Cave National Monument Visitor Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.7298 | long=-103.8295 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-07-02 | content=Begin your visit at the visitor center where there are an information desk, park store, exhibits, drinking fountain, restrooms, a theater for the park film, and elevators for the Scenic Tour and the Discovery Talk. The visitor center hours, kiosk, theater, and tour times vary by season. The visitor center is located below the parking lot and is accessible by a ramp or stairs. }} ==Get in== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The visitor center is on '''US Highway 16''', {{mi|13}} west of [[Custer]] and {{mi|24}} east of [[Newcastle (Wyoming)]]. ===By plane=== The nearest airport is in [[Rapid City]], {{mi|54}} from the visitor center. Car rental services are available. ==Fees and permits== Access to the above-ground portion of the monument is free. There are fees for the various cave tours, ranging from $16 to $45 for adults. The America the Beautiful (Interagency) Passes do not count towards these fees, nor provide any discounts in the park. ==Get around== The above-ground portion of the monument is only about {{sqmi|1}}. Walking paths and trails are found on the surface. Most of the action starts from the Visitor Center, where there is an elevator that goes down into the main cave entrance. There is also the {{marker|name=Historic Area|lat=43.73438|long=-103.84239}}, with a 1930s CCC ranger cabin and the original 1900 cave entrance used by the Historic Lantern Tour. ==See== *'''Wildflowers.''' There are copious amounts of wildflowers for the visitor's viewing pleasure. Do not pick, damage, or otherwise disturb the flowers. As you walk the trails, be cautious. ==Do== ===Cave tours=== '''All cave access is by guided tour only.''' The monument offers a number of tours throughout the day. * {{do | name=Scenic Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/scenictour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about once an hour | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The cave's most popular tour. See a variety of speleothems (cave formations). Moderately strenuous, lasts 1 hour 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Discovery Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/discoverytour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about every two hours | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A quick introduction to Jewel Cave's natural and cultural histories, at the large "Target Room." Easy (but with stairs), lasts 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Historic Lantern Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/lanterntour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Check in at the Historic Area, about {{mi|1}} west of the Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Sep, about five times daily | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Carry an old-style lantern {{mi|0.25}} down the original cave entrance, through narrow passageways and steep wooden steps. This tour is unpaved and requires some stooping, and lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Wild Caving Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/wildcavingtour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=May-Sep, select days | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Put on a hard hat and squeeze through the cave in its natural state. You scramble over cave "breakdown," chimney between cave walls, use a rope assist to climb a nearly vertical wall, and belly-crawl through tight passages; you must pass through an 8-1/2 inch by 24-inch crawl space before the tour. Along the way you learn about low-impact caving, caving techniques and safety. The tour lasts 3 to 4 hours. }} Tour sizes are limited in size. '''[https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/10088103 Tours can be reserved up to 2-3 months in advance on Recreation.gov]'''. Same day tickets are not guaranteed, and it is common for tours to sell out during the summer months. The cave is 49&deg;F (9.4&deg;C) year round. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. ===Hiking=== * {{do | name=Roof Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=South side of visitor center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|0.25}} loop. }} * {{do | name=Canyons Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=From the Roof Trail or the Historic Area | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|3.5}} loop. }} ===Birdwatching=== There are many birds to be seen in the National Monument, including the occasional bald eagle. As you walk the trails, keep an eye out. ==Buy== ==Eat and drink== Other than vending machines, there is no food service at the cave. The nearest restaurants are in Custer or Newcastle, Wyoming. Food and drink are not allowed in the cave. ==Sleep== There is no lodging in the National Monument. The nearest accommodations are in [[Custer]]. ===Backcountry=== Jewel Cave is surrounded by the '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]''', and, as with nearly all U.S. National Forests, you can pitch a tent pretty much anywhere as long as you get away from the road and do not go down any roads marked as private. ==Stay safe== A guided tour of the cave is quite safe. However, stay with the tour guide, as unmarked parts of the cave are not lit and it is easy to get lost. ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 16.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Gillette]] | minorl1=[[Moorcroft]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Rapid City]] | minorr1=[[Custer]] }} {{usablepark}} {{geo|43.729444|-103.829444}} {{isPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} sgwdjs2h7v9oc3jy9ynel1mnm18d110 5091176 5091175 2025-07-11T04:11:30Z Gerode 2196717 Added pics 5091176 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Jewel Cave National Monument banner.jpg}} '''Jewel Cave National Monument''' is in the [[Badlands and Black Hills|Black Hills]] of [[South Dakota]]. The cave is the third longest known cave in the world, with over {{mi|208}} of mapped and surveyed passages as of 2020, and more being added each year. The cave was named after the large amounts of calcite (calcium carbonate) crystals found in the cave. ==Understand== ===History=== {{infobox|The 2000 Jasper Fire|On August 24, 2000 a wildfire started near Jewel Cave. The fire burned 83,508 acres in the [[Black Hills]] and nearly 90% of Jewel Cave National Monument's land area.}} Two brothers, Frank and Albert Michaud, discovered a strong breeze emerging from a small opening in a hillside. They enlarged the entrance enough to explore inside, and quickly filed a mining claim in 1900. The brothers intended to transform the cave into a tourist attraction, but the remote location of the cave precluded it from being a commercial success. In 1908, US President Theodore Roosevelt set aside the cave as a National Monument following a local movement to preserve the cave. ===Landscape=== Jewel Cave National Monument is in a large pine forest. The area is rebuilding itself after the [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/learn/nature/jasperfire.htm Jasper Fire in 2000]. Visitors can see this process. ===Flora and fauna=== There are many wildflowers in the National Monument. Where there is a cave, there is often bats. About 1,000 bats use caves to hibernate during the winter. Elk, mule deer, rabbits, squirrels, a variety of snakes, hawks, eagles, and other birds can be found in the area. ===Climate=== * Spring: Rain or snow is common. Temperatures vary. * Summer: Rain is common in June. Sunny and dry in July and August. Temperatures range from 70 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. * Fall: Mild temperatures and occasional rain or snow showers. * Winter: Cold temperatures are common with occasional snow. The cave itself is a constant, somewhat damp, {{F|49}}. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/index.htm Park website] * {{listing | name=Jewel Cave National Monument Visitor Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.7298 | long=-103.8295 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-07-02 | content=Begin your visit at the visitor center where there are an information desk, park store, exhibits, drinking fountain, restrooms, a theater for the park film, and elevators for the Scenic Tour and the Discovery Talk. The visitor center hours, kiosk, theater, and tour times vary by season. The visitor center is located below the parking lot and is accessible by a ramp or stairs. }} ==Get in== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The visitor center is on '''US Highway 16''', {{mi|13}} west of [[Custer]] and {{mi|24}} east of [[Newcastle (Wyoming)]]. ===By plane=== The nearest airport is in [[Rapid City]], {{mi|54}} from the visitor center. Car rental services are available. ==Fees and permits== Access to the above-ground portion of the monument is free. There are fees for the various cave tours, ranging from $16 to $45 for adults. The America the Beautiful (Interagency) Passes do not count towards these fees, nor provide any discounts in the park. ==Get around== The above-ground portion of the monument is only about {{sqmi|1}}. Walking paths and trails are found on the surface. Most of the action starts from the Visitor Center, where there is an elevator that goes down into the main cave entrance. There is also the {{marker|name=Historic Area|lat=43.73438|long=-103.84239}}, with a 1930s CCC ranger cabin and the original 1900 cave entrance used by the Historic Lantern Tour. ==See== *'''Wildflowers.''' There are copious amounts of wildflowers for the visitor's viewing pleasure. Do not pick, damage, or otherwise disturb the flowers. As you walk the trails, be cautious. ==Do== ===Cave tours=== [[File:Inside Jewel Cave National Monument - (14912447278).jpg|thumb|Inside the cave]] '''All cave access is by guided tour only.''' The monument offers a number of tours throughout the day. * {{do | name=Scenic Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/scenictour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about once an hour | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The cave's most popular tour. See a variety of speleothems (cave formations). Moderately strenuous, lasts 1 hour 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Discovery Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/discoverytour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about every two hours | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A quick introduction to Jewel Cave's natural and cultural histories, at the large "Target Room." Easy (but with stairs), lasts 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Historic Lantern Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/lanterntour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Check in at the Historic Area, about {{mi|1}} west of the Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Sep, about five times daily | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Carry an old-style lantern {{mi|0.25}} down the original cave entrance, through narrow passageways and steep wooden steps. This tour is unpaved and requires some stooping, and lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Wild Caving Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/wildcavingtour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=May-Sep, select days | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Put on a hard hat and squeeze through the cave in its natural state. You scramble over cave "breakdown," chimney between cave walls, use a rope assist to climb a nearly vertical wall, and belly-crawl through tight passages; you must pass through an 8-1/2 inch by 24-inch crawl space before the tour. Along the way you learn about low-impact caving, caving techniques and safety. The tour lasts 3 to 4 hours. }} Tour sizes are limited in size. '''[https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/10088103 Tours can be reserved up to 2-3 months in advance on Recreation.gov]'''. Same day tickets are not guaranteed, and it is common for tours to sell out during the summer months. The cave is 49&deg;F (9.4&deg;C) year round. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. ===Hiking=== * {{do | name=Roof Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=South side of visitor center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|0.25}} loop. }} * {{do | name=Canyons Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=From the Roof Trail or the Historic Area | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|3.5}} loop. }} ===Birdwatching=== There are many birds to be seen in the National Monument, including the occasional bald eagle. As you walk the trails, keep an eye out. ==Buy== ==Eat and drink== [[File:Bacon Strip Jewel Cave koopas.JPG|thumb|Cave bacon is not edible.]] Other than vending machines, there is no food service at the cave. The nearest restaurants are in Custer or Newcastle, Wyoming. Food and drink are not allowed in the cave. ==Sleep== There is no lodging in the National Monument. The nearest accommodations are in [[Custer]]. ===Backcountry=== Jewel Cave is surrounded by the '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]''', and, as with nearly all U.S. National Forests, you can pitch a tent pretty much anywhere as long as you get away from the road and do not go down any roads marked as private. ==Stay safe== A guided tour of the cave is quite safe. However, stay with the tour guide, as unmarked parts of the cave are not lit and it is easy to get lost. ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 16.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Gillette]] | minorl1=[[Moorcroft]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Rapid City]] | minorr1=[[Custer]] }} {{usablepark}} {{geo|43.729444|-103.829444}} {{isPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} 5k8fi3btleclywdn2f26ilfedfqil7g 5091177 5091176 2025-07-11T04:17:52Z Gerode 2196717 /* History */ Added history 5091177 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Jewel Cave National Monument banner.jpg}} '''Jewel Cave National Monument''' is in the [[Badlands and Black Hills|Black Hills]] of [[South Dakota]]. The cave is the third longest known cave in the world, with over {{mi|208}} of mapped and surveyed passages as of 2020, and more being added each year. The cave was named after the large amounts of calcite (calcium carbonate) crystals found in the cave. ==Understand== ===History=== {{infobox|The 2000 Jasper Fire|On August 24, 2000 a wildfire started near Jewel Cave. The fire burned 83,508 acres in the [[Black Hills]] and nearly 90% of Jewel Cave National Monument's land area.}} Two brothers, Frank and Albert Michaud, discovered a strong breeze emerging from a small opening in a hillside. They enlarged the entrance enough to explore inside, and quickly filed a mining claim in 1900. The brothers intended to transform the cave into a tourist attraction, but the remote location of the cave precluded it from being a commercial success. In 1908, US President Theodore Roosevelt set aside the cave as a National Monument following a local movement to preserve the cave. Until 1959, Jewel Cave was thought to be only about 2 miles. Cavers Herb and Jan Conn took an interest in exploring the cave, and discovered over 65 cave miles over the next two decades. They helped decide where to construct the larger tourist-friendly entrance in the 1970s, and mapped out the route for the current Scenic and Discovery Tours. ===Landscape=== Jewel Cave National Monument is in a large pine forest. The area is rebuilding itself after the [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/learn/nature/jasperfire.htm Jasper Fire in 2000]. Visitors can see this process. ===Flora and fauna=== There are many wildflowers in the National Monument. Where there is a cave, there is often bats. About 1,000 bats use caves to hibernate during the winter. Elk, mule deer, rabbits, squirrels, a variety of snakes, hawks, eagles, and other birds can be found in the area. ===Climate=== * Spring: Rain or snow is common. Temperatures vary. * Summer: Rain is common in June. Sunny and dry in July and August. Temperatures range from 70 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. * Fall: Mild temperatures and occasional rain or snow showers. * Winter: Cold temperatures are common with occasional snow. The cave itself is a constant, somewhat damp, {{F|49}}. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/index.htm Park website] * {{listing | name=Jewel Cave National Monument Visitor Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.7298 | long=-103.8295 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-07-02 | content=Begin your visit at the visitor center where there are an information desk, park store, exhibits, drinking fountain, restrooms, a theater for the park film, and elevators for the Scenic Tour and the Discovery Talk. The visitor center hours, kiosk, theater, and tour times vary by season. The visitor center is located below the parking lot and is accessible by a ramp or stairs. }} ==Get in== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The visitor center is on '''US Highway 16''', {{mi|13}} west of [[Custer]] and {{mi|24}} east of [[Newcastle (Wyoming)]]. ===By plane=== The nearest airport is in [[Rapid City]], {{mi|54}} from the visitor center. Car rental services are available. ==Fees and permits== Access to the above-ground portion of the monument is free. There are fees for the various cave tours, ranging from $16 to $45 for adults. The America the Beautiful (Interagency) Passes do not count towards these fees, nor provide any discounts in the park. ==Get around== The above-ground portion of the monument is only about {{sqmi|1}}. Walking paths and trails are found on the surface. Most of the action starts from the Visitor Center, where there is an elevator that goes down into the main cave entrance. There is also the {{marker|name=Historic Area|lat=43.73438|long=-103.84239}}, with a 1930s CCC ranger cabin and the original 1900 cave entrance used by the Historic Lantern Tour. ==See== *'''Wildflowers.''' There are copious amounts of wildflowers for the visitor's viewing pleasure. Do not pick, damage, or otherwise disturb the flowers. As you walk the trails, be cautious. ==Do== ===Cave tours=== [[File:Inside Jewel Cave National Monument - (14912447278).jpg|thumb|Inside the cave]] '''All cave access is by guided tour only.''' The monument offers a number of tours throughout the day. * {{do | name=Scenic Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/scenictour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about once an hour | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The cave's most popular tour. See a variety of speleothems (cave formations). Moderately strenuous, lasts 1 hour 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Discovery Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/discoverytour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about every two hours | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A quick introduction to Jewel Cave's natural and cultural histories, at the large "Target Room." Easy (but with stairs), lasts 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Historic Lantern Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/lanterntour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Check in at the Historic Area, about {{mi|1}} west of the Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Sep, about five times daily | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Carry an old-style lantern {{mi|0.25}} down the original cave entrance, through narrow passageways and steep wooden steps. This tour is unpaved and requires some stooping, and lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Wild Caving Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/wildcavingtour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=May-Sep, select days | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Put on a hard hat and squeeze through the cave in its natural state. You scramble over cave "breakdown," chimney between cave walls, use a rope assist to climb a nearly vertical wall, and belly-crawl through tight passages; you must pass through an 8-1/2 inch by 24-inch crawl space before the tour. Along the way you learn about low-impact caving, caving techniques and safety. The tour lasts 3 to 4 hours. }} Tour sizes are limited in size. '''[https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/10088103 Tours can be reserved up to 2-3 months in advance on Recreation.gov]'''. Same day tickets are not guaranteed, and it is common for tours to sell out during the summer months. The cave is 49&deg;F (9.4&deg;C) year round. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. ===Hiking=== * {{do | name=Roof Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=South side of visitor center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|0.25}} loop. }} * {{do | name=Canyons Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=From the Roof Trail or the Historic Area | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|3.5}} loop. }} ===Birdwatching=== There are many birds to be seen in the National Monument, including the occasional bald eagle. As you walk the trails, keep an eye out. ==Buy== ==Eat and drink== [[File:Bacon Strip Jewel Cave koopas.JPG|thumb|Cave bacon is not edible.]] Other than vending machines, there is no food service at the cave. The nearest restaurants are in Custer or Newcastle, Wyoming. Food and drink are not allowed in the cave. ==Sleep== There is no lodging in the National Monument. The nearest accommodations are in [[Custer]]. ===Backcountry=== Jewel Cave is surrounded by the '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]''', and, as with nearly all U.S. National Forests, you can pitch a tent pretty much anywhere as long as you get away from the road and do not go down any roads marked as private. ==Stay safe== A guided tour of the cave is quite safe. However, stay with the tour guide, as unmarked parts of the cave are not lit and it is easy to get lost. ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 16.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Gillette]] | minorl1=[[Moorcroft]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Rapid City]] | minorr1=[[Custer]] }} {{usablepark}} {{geo|43.729444|-103.829444}} {{isPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} czqp2dgvase7qby6lvbsai62a8dbap6 5091179 5091177 2025-07-11T04:23:51Z Gerode 2196717 /* History */ Added volume measurement description 5091179 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Jewel Cave National Monument banner.jpg}} '''Jewel Cave National Monument''' is in the [[Badlands and Black Hills|Black Hills]] of [[South Dakota]]. The cave is the third longest known cave in the world, with over {{mi|208}} of mapped and surveyed passages as of 2020, and more being added each year. The cave was named after the large amounts of calcite (calcium carbonate) crystals found in the cave. ==Understand== ===History=== {{infobox|The 2000 Jasper Fire|On August 24, 2000 a wildfire started near Jewel Cave. The fire burned 83,508 acres in the [[Black Hills]] and nearly 90% of Jewel Cave National Monument's land area.}} Two brothers, Frank and Albert Michaud, discovered a strong breeze emerging from a small opening in a hillside. They enlarged the entrance enough to explore inside, and quickly filed a mining claim in 1900. The brothers intended to transform the cave into a tourist attraction, but the remote location of the cave precluded it from being a commercial success. In 1908, US President Theodore Roosevelt set aside the cave as a National Monument following a local movement to preserve the cave. Until 1959, Jewel Cave was thought to be only about 2 miles. Cavers Herb and Jan Conn took an interest in exploring the cave, and discovered over 65 cave miles over the next two decades. They helped decide where to construct the larger tourist-friendly entrance in the 1970s, and mapped out the route for the current Scenic and Discovery Tours. Since Jewel Cave has only one natural entrance, scientists can readily measure the amount of air flowing in and out of the cave as the outside atmospheric pressure changes. When these measurements are used to estimate the volume of the cave, it suggests that only about 3-5% of Jewel Cave has been explored; the cave could go on for another {{mi|5,000-7,000}}. ===Landscape=== Jewel Cave National Monument is in a large pine forest. The area is rebuilding itself after the [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/learn/nature/jasperfire.htm Jasper Fire in 2000]. Visitors can see this process. ===Flora and fauna=== There are many wildflowers in the National Monument. Where there is a cave, there is often bats. About 1,000 bats use caves to hibernate during the winter. Elk, mule deer, rabbits, squirrels, a variety of snakes, hawks, eagles, and other birds can be found in the area. ===Climate=== * Spring: Rain or snow is common. Temperatures vary. * Summer: Rain is common in June. Sunny and dry in July and August. Temperatures range from 70 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. * Fall: Mild temperatures and occasional rain or snow showers. * Winter: Cold temperatures are common with occasional snow. The cave itself is a constant, somewhat damp, {{F|49}}. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/index.htm Park website] * {{listing | name=Jewel Cave National Monument Visitor Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.7298 | long=-103.8295 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-07-02 | content=Begin your visit at the visitor center where there are an information desk, park store, exhibits, drinking fountain, restrooms, a theater for the park film, and elevators for the Scenic Tour and the Discovery Talk. The visitor center hours, kiosk, theater, and tour times vary by season. The visitor center is located below the parking lot and is accessible by a ramp or stairs. }} ==Get in== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The visitor center is on '''US Highway 16''', {{mi|13}} west of [[Custer]] and {{mi|24}} east of [[Newcastle (Wyoming)]]. ===By plane=== The nearest airport is in [[Rapid City]], {{mi|54}} from the visitor center. Car rental services are available. ==Fees and permits== Access to the above-ground portion of the monument is free. There are fees for the various cave tours, ranging from $16 to $45 for adults. The America the Beautiful (Interagency) Passes do not count towards these fees, nor provide any discounts in the park. ==Get around== The above-ground portion of the monument is only about {{sqmi|1}}. Walking paths and trails are found on the surface. Most of the action starts from the Visitor Center, where there is an elevator that goes down into the main cave entrance. There is also the {{marker|name=Historic Area|lat=43.73438|long=-103.84239}}, with a 1930s CCC ranger cabin and the original 1900 cave entrance used by the Historic Lantern Tour. ==See== *'''Wildflowers.''' There are copious amounts of wildflowers for the visitor's viewing pleasure. Do not pick, damage, or otherwise disturb the flowers. As you walk the trails, be cautious. ==Do== ===Cave tours=== [[File:Inside Jewel Cave National Monument - (14912447278).jpg|thumb|Inside the cave]] '''All cave access is by guided tour only.''' The monument offers a number of tours throughout the day. * {{do | name=Scenic Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/scenictour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about once an hour | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The cave's most popular tour. See a variety of speleothems (cave formations). Moderately strenuous, lasts 1 hour 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Discovery Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/discoverytour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about every two hours | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A quick introduction to Jewel Cave's natural and cultural histories, at the large "Target Room." Easy (but with stairs), lasts 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Historic Lantern Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/lanterntour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Check in at the Historic Area, about {{mi|1}} west of the Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Sep, about five times daily | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Carry an old-style lantern {{mi|0.25}} down the original cave entrance, through narrow passageways and steep wooden steps. This tour is unpaved and requires some stooping, and lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Wild Caving Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/wildcavingtour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=May-Sep, select days | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Put on a hard hat and squeeze through the cave in its natural state. You scramble over cave "breakdown," chimney between cave walls, use a rope assist to climb a nearly vertical wall, and belly-crawl through tight passages; you must pass through an 8-1/2 inch by 24-inch crawl space before the tour. Along the way you learn about low-impact caving, caving techniques and safety. The tour lasts 3 to 4 hours. }} Tour sizes are limited in size. '''[https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/10088103 Tours can be reserved up to 2-3 months in advance on Recreation.gov]'''. Same day tickets are not guaranteed, and it is common for tours to sell out during the summer months. The cave is 49&deg;F (9.4&deg;C) year round. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. ===Hiking=== * {{do | name=Roof Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=South side of visitor center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|0.25}} loop. }} * {{do | name=Canyons Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=From the Roof Trail or the Historic Area | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|3.5}} loop. }} ===Birdwatching=== There are many birds to be seen in the National Monument, including the occasional bald eagle. As you walk the trails, keep an eye out. ==Buy== ==Eat and drink== [[File:Bacon Strip Jewel Cave koopas.JPG|thumb|Cave bacon is not edible.]] Other than vending machines, there is no food service at the cave. The nearest restaurants are in Custer or Newcastle, Wyoming. Food and drink are not allowed in the cave. ==Sleep== There is no lodging in the National Monument. The nearest accommodations are in [[Custer]]. ===Backcountry=== Jewel Cave is surrounded by the '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]''', and, as with nearly all U.S. National Forests, you can pitch a tent pretty much anywhere as long as you get away from the road and do not go down any roads marked as private. ==Stay safe== A guided tour of the cave is quite safe. However, stay with the tour guide, as unmarked parts of the cave are not lit and it is easy to get lost. ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 16.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Gillette]] | minorl1=[[Moorcroft]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Rapid City]] | minorr1=[[Custer]] }} {{usablepark}} {{geo|43.729444|-103.829444}} {{isPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} lv9oj0am3q5asnedfojwuajna70c1uh 5091180 5091179 2025-07-11T04:28:51Z Gerode 2196717 Moved and copyedited Jasper Fire infobox 5091180 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Jewel Cave National Monument banner.jpg}} '''Jewel Cave National Monument''' is in the [[Badlands and Black Hills|Black Hills]] of [[South Dakota]]. The cave is the third longest known cave in the world, with over {{mi|208}} of mapped and surveyed passages as of 2020, and more being added each year. The cave was named after the large amounts of calcite (calcium carbonate) crystals found in the cave. ==Understand== ===History=== Two brothers, Frank and Albert Michaud, discovered a strong breeze emerging from a small opening in a hillside. They enlarged the entrance enough to explore inside, and quickly filed a mining claim in 1900. The brothers intended to transform the cave into a tourist attraction, but the remote location of the cave precluded it from being a commercial success. In 1908, US President Theodore Roosevelt set aside the cave as a National Monument following a local movement to preserve the cave. Until 1959, Jewel Cave was thought to be only about 2 miles. Cavers Herb and Jan Conn took an interest in exploring the cave, and discovered over 65 cave miles over the next two decades. They helped decide where to construct the larger tourist-friendly entrance in the 1970s, and mapped out the route for the current Scenic and Discovery Tours. Since Jewel Cave has only one natural entrance, scientists can readily measure the amount of air flowing in and out of the cave as the outside atmospheric pressure changes. When these measurements are used to estimate the volume of the cave, it suggests that only about 3-5% of Jewel Cave has been explored; the cave could go on for another {{mi|5,000-7,000}}. ===Landscape=== {{infobox|The 2000 Jasper Fire|On August 24, 2000 a wildfire started near Jewel Cave. The fire burned 83,508 acres in the [[Black Hills]], including 90% of Jewel Cave National Monument's land area. Burned trees are still easy to spot, and recovery of the natural environment is ongoing.}} Jewel Cave National Monument is in a large pine forest. ===Flora and fauna=== There are many wildflowers in the National Monument. Where there is a cave, there is often bats. About 1,000 bats use caves to hibernate during the winter. Elk, mule deer, rabbits, squirrels, a variety of snakes, hawks, eagles, and other birds can be found in the area. ===Climate=== * Spring: Rain or snow is common. Temperatures vary. * Summer: Rain is common in June. Sunny and dry in July and August. Temperatures range from 70 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. * Fall: Mild temperatures and occasional rain or snow showers. * Winter: Cold temperatures are common with occasional snow. The cave itself is a constant, somewhat damp, {{F|49}}. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/index.htm Park website] * {{listing | name=Jewel Cave National Monument Visitor Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.7298 | long=-103.8295 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-07-02 | content=Begin your visit at the visitor center where there are an information desk, park store, exhibits, drinking fountain, restrooms, a theater for the park film, and elevators for the Scenic Tour and the Discovery Talk. The visitor center hours, kiosk, theater, and tour times vary by season. The visitor center is located below the parking lot and is accessible by a ramp or stairs. }} ==Get in== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The visitor center is on '''US Highway 16''', {{mi|13}} west of [[Custer]] and {{mi|24}} east of [[Newcastle (Wyoming)]]. ===By plane=== The nearest airport is in [[Rapid City]], {{mi|54}} from the visitor center. Car rental services are available. ==Fees and permits== Access to the above-ground portion of the monument is free. There are fees for the various cave tours, ranging from $16 to $45 for adults. The America the Beautiful (Interagency) Passes do not count towards these fees, nor provide any discounts in the park. ==Get around== The above-ground portion of the monument is only about {{sqmi|1}}. Walking paths and trails are found on the surface. Most of the action starts from the Visitor Center, where there is an elevator that goes down into the main cave entrance. There is also the {{marker|name=Historic Area|lat=43.73438|long=-103.84239}}, with a 1930s CCC ranger cabin and the original 1900 cave entrance used by the Historic Lantern Tour. ==See== *'''Wildflowers.''' There are copious amounts of wildflowers for the visitor's viewing pleasure. Do not pick, damage, or otherwise disturb the flowers. As you walk the trails, be cautious. ==Do== ===Cave tours=== [[File:Inside Jewel Cave National Monument - (14912447278).jpg|thumb|Inside the cave]] '''All cave access is by guided tour only.''' The monument offers a number of tours throughout the day. * {{do | name=Scenic Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/scenictour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about once an hour | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The cave's most popular tour. See a variety of speleothems (cave formations). Moderately strenuous, lasts 1 hour 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Discovery Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/discoverytour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about every two hours | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A quick introduction to Jewel Cave's natural and cultural histories, at the large "Target Room." Easy (but with stairs), lasts 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Historic Lantern Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/lanterntour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Check in at the Historic Area, about {{mi|1}} west of the Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Sep, about five times daily | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Carry an old-style lantern {{mi|0.25}} down the original cave entrance, through narrow passageways and steep wooden steps. This tour is unpaved and requires some stooping, and lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Wild Caving Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/wildcavingtour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=May-Sep, select days | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Put on a hard hat and squeeze through the cave in its natural state. You scramble over cave "breakdown," chimney between cave walls, use a rope assist to climb a nearly vertical wall, and belly-crawl through tight passages; you must pass through an 8-1/2 inch by 24-inch crawl space before the tour. Along the way you learn about low-impact caving, caving techniques and safety. The tour lasts 3 to 4 hours. }} Tour sizes are limited in size. '''[https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/10088103 Tours can be reserved up to 2-3 months in advance on Recreation.gov]'''. Same day tickets are not guaranteed, and it is common for tours to sell out during the summer months. The cave is 49&deg;F (9.4&deg;C) year round. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. ===Hiking=== * {{do | name=Roof Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=South side of visitor center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|0.25}} loop. }} * {{do | name=Canyons Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=From the Roof Trail or the Historic Area | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|3.5}} loop. }} ===Birdwatching=== There are many birds to be seen in the National Monument, including the occasional bald eagle. As you walk the trails, keep an eye out. ==Buy== ==Eat and drink== [[File:Bacon Strip Jewel Cave koopas.JPG|thumb|Cave bacon is not edible.]] Other than vending machines, there is no food service at the cave. The nearest restaurants are in Custer or Newcastle, Wyoming. Food and drink are not allowed in the cave. ==Sleep== There is no lodging in the National Monument. The nearest accommodations are in [[Custer]]. ===Backcountry=== Jewel Cave is surrounded by the '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]''', and, as with nearly all U.S. National Forests, you can pitch a tent pretty much anywhere as long as you get away from the road and do not go down any roads marked as private. ==Stay safe== A guided tour of the cave is quite safe. However, stay with the tour guide, as unmarked parts of the cave are not lit and it is easy to get lost. ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 16.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Gillette]] | minorl1=[[Moorcroft]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Rapid City]] | minorr1=[[Custer]] }} {{usablepark}} {{geo|43.729444|-103.829444}} {{isPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} 3mnv8qifwr3d3apevvv2s2n8q47l5sc 5091181 5091180 2025-07-11T04:34:40Z Gerode 2196717 /* Cave tours */ updated tour times 5091181 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Jewel Cave National Monument banner.jpg}} '''Jewel Cave National Monument''' is in the [[Badlands and Black Hills|Black Hills]] of [[South Dakota]]. The cave is the third longest known cave in the world, with over {{mi|208}} of mapped and surveyed passages as of 2020, and more being added each year. The cave was named after the large amounts of calcite (calcium carbonate) crystals found in the cave. ==Understand== ===History=== Two brothers, Frank and Albert Michaud, discovered a strong breeze emerging from a small opening in a hillside. They enlarged the entrance enough to explore inside, and quickly filed a mining claim in 1900. The brothers intended to transform the cave into a tourist attraction, but the remote location of the cave precluded it from being a commercial success. In 1908, US President Theodore Roosevelt set aside the cave as a National Monument following a local movement to preserve the cave. Until 1959, Jewel Cave was thought to be only about 2 miles. Cavers Herb and Jan Conn took an interest in exploring the cave, and discovered over 65 cave miles over the next two decades. They helped decide where to construct the larger tourist-friendly entrance in the 1970s, and mapped out the route for the current Scenic and Discovery Tours. Since Jewel Cave has only one natural entrance, scientists can readily measure the amount of air flowing in and out of the cave as the outside atmospheric pressure changes. When these measurements are used to estimate the volume of the cave, it suggests that only about 3-5% of Jewel Cave has been explored; the cave could go on for another {{mi|5,000-7,000}}. ===Landscape=== {{infobox|The 2000 Jasper Fire|On August 24, 2000 a wildfire started near Jewel Cave. The fire burned 83,508 acres in the [[Black Hills]], including 90% of Jewel Cave National Monument's land area. Burned trees are still easy to spot, and recovery of the natural environment is ongoing.}} Jewel Cave National Monument is in a large pine forest. ===Flora and fauna=== There are many wildflowers in the National Monument. Where there is a cave, there is often bats. About 1,000 bats use caves to hibernate during the winter. Elk, mule deer, rabbits, squirrels, a variety of snakes, hawks, eagles, and other birds can be found in the area. ===Climate=== * Spring: Rain or snow is common. Temperatures vary. * Summer: Rain is common in June. Sunny and dry in July and August. Temperatures range from 70 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. * Fall: Mild temperatures and occasional rain or snow showers. * Winter: Cold temperatures are common with occasional snow. The cave itself is a constant, somewhat damp, {{F|49}}. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/index.htm Park website] * {{listing | name=Jewel Cave National Monument Visitor Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.7298 | long=-103.8295 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-07-02 | content=Begin your visit at the visitor center where there are an information desk, park store, exhibits, drinking fountain, restrooms, a theater for the park film, and elevators for the Scenic Tour and the Discovery Talk. The visitor center hours, kiosk, theater, and tour times vary by season. The visitor center is located below the parking lot and is accessible by a ramp or stairs. }} ==Get in== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The visitor center is on '''US Highway 16''', {{mi|13}} west of [[Custer]] and {{mi|24}} east of [[Newcastle (Wyoming)]]. ===By plane=== The nearest airport is in [[Rapid City]], {{mi|54}} from the visitor center. Car rental services are available. ==Fees and permits== Access to the above-ground portion of the monument is free. There are fees for the various cave tours, ranging from $16 to $45 for adults. The America the Beautiful (Interagency) Passes do not count towards these fees, nor provide any discounts in the park. ==Get around== The above-ground portion of the monument is only about {{sqmi|1}}. Walking paths and trails are found on the surface. Most of the action starts from the Visitor Center, where there is an elevator that goes down into the main cave entrance. There is also the {{marker|name=Historic Area|lat=43.73438|long=-103.84239}}, with a 1930s CCC ranger cabin and the original 1900 cave entrance used by the Historic Lantern Tour. ==See== *'''Wildflowers.''' There are copious amounts of wildflowers for the visitor's viewing pleasure. Do not pick, damage, or otherwise disturb the flowers. As you walk the trails, be cautious. ==Do== ===Cave tours=== [[File:Inside Jewel Cave National Monument - (14912447278).jpg|thumb|Inside the cave]] '''All cave access is by guided tour only.''' The monument offers a number of tours throughout the day. * {{do | name=Scenic Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/scenictour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about once an hour | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The cave's most popular tour. See a variety of speleothems (cave formations). Moderately strenuous, lasts 1 hour 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Discovery Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/discoverytour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about every 1-2 hours | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A quick introduction to Jewel Cave's natural and cultural histories, at the large "Target Room." Easy (but with stairs), lasts 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Historic Lantern Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/lanterntour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Check in at the Historic Area, about {{mi|1}} west of the Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Sep, about five times daily | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Carry an old-style lantern {{mi|0.25}} down the original cave entrance, through narrow passageways and steep wooden steps. This tour is unpaved and requires some stooping, and lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Wild Caving Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/wildcavingtour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=May-Sep, select days | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Put on a hard hat and squeeze through the cave in its natural state. You scramble over cave "breakdown," chimney between cave walls, use a rope assist to climb a nearly vertical wall, and belly-crawl through tight passages; you must pass through an 8-1/2 inch by 24-inch crawl space before the tour. Along the way you learn about low-impact caving, caving techniques and safety. The tour lasts 3 to 4 hours. }} Tour sizes are limited in size. '''[https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/10088103 Tours can be reserved up to 2-3 months in advance on Recreation.gov]'''. Same day tickets are not guaranteed, and it is common for tours to sell out during the summer months. The cave is 49&deg;F (9.4&deg;C) year round. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. ===Hiking=== * {{do | name=Roof Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=South side of visitor center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|0.25}} loop. }} * {{do | name=Canyons Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=From the Roof Trail or the Historic Area | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|3.5}} loop. }} ===Birdwatching=== There are many birds to be seen in the National Monument, including the occasional bald eagle. As you walk the trails, keep an eye out. ==Buy== ==Eat and drink== [[File:Bacon Strip Jewel Cave koopas.JPG|thumb|Cave bacon is not edible.]] Other than vending machines, there is no food service at the cave. The nearest restaurants are in Custer or Newcastle, Wyoming. Food and drink are not allowed in the cave. ==Sleep== There is no lodging in the National Monument. The nearest accommodations are in [[Custer]]. ===Backcountry=== Jewel Cave is surrounded by the '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]''', and, as with nearly all U.S. National Forests, you can pitch a tent pretty much anywhere as long as you get away from the road and do not go down any roads marked as private. ==Stay safe== A guided tour of the cave is quite safe. However, stay with the tour guide, as unmarked parts of the cave are not lit and it is easy to get lost. ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 16.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Gillette]] | minorl1=[[Moorcroft]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Rapid City]] | minorr1=[[Custer]] }} {{usablepark}} {{geo|43.729444|-103.829444}} {{isPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} gbqdltzk7nn180kc18b7xlusjggawqa 5091184 5091181 2025-07-11T04:42:34Z Gerode 2196717 /* Cave tours */ 5091184 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Jewel Cave National Monument banner.jpg}} '''Jewel Cave National Monument''' is in the [[Badlands and Black Hills|Black Hills]] of [[South Dakota]]. The cave is the third longest known cave in the world, with over {{mi|208}} of mapped and surveyed passages as of 2020, and more being added each year. The cave was named after the large amounts of calcite (calcium carbonate) crystals found in the cave. ==Understand== ===History=== Two brothers, Frank and Albert Michaud, discovered a strong breeze emerging from a small opening in a hillside. They enlarged the entrance enough to explore inside, and quickly filed a mining claim in 1900. The brothers intended to transform the cave into a tourist attraction, but the remote location of the cave precluded it from being a commercial success. In 1908, US President Theodore Roosevelt set aside the cave as a National Monument following a local movement to preserve the cave. Until 1959, Jewel Cave was thought to be only about 2 miles. Cavers Herb and Jan Conn took an interest in exploring the cave, and discovered over 65 cave miles over the next two decades. They helped decide where to construct the larger tourist-friendly entrance in the 1970s, and mapped out the route for the current Scenic and Discovery Tours. Since Jewel Cave has only one natural entrance, scientists can readily measure the amount of air flowing in and out of the cave as the outside atmospheric pressure changes. When these measurements are used to estimate the volume of the cave, it suggests that only about 3-5% of Jewel Cave has been explored; the cave could go on for another {{mi|5,000-7,000}}. ===Landscape=== {{infobox|The 2000 Jasper Fire|On August 24, 2000 a wildfire started near Jewel Cave. The fire burned 83,508 acres in the [[Black Hills]], including 90% of Jewel Cave National Monument's land area. Burned trees are still easy to spot, and recovery of the natural environment is ongoing.}} Jewel Cave National Monument is in a large pine forest. ===Flora and fauna=== There are many wildflowers in the National Monument. Where there is a cave, there is often bats. About 1,000 bats use caves to hibernate during the winter. Elk, mule deer, rabbits, squirrels, a variety of snakes, hawks, eagles, and other birds can be found in the area. ===Climate=== * Spring: Rain or snow is common. Temperatures vary. * Summer: Rain is common in June. Sunny and dry in July and August. Temperatures range from 70 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. * Fall: Mild temperatures and occasional rain or snow showers. * Winter: Cold temperatures are common with occasional snow. The cave itself is a constant, somewhat damp, {{F|49}}. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/jeca/index.htm Park website] * {{listing | name=Jewel Cave National Monument Visitor Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.7298 | long=-103.8295 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-07-02 | content=Begin your visit at the visitor center where there are an information desk, park store, exhibits, drinking fountain, restrooms, a theater for the park film, and elevators for the Scenic Tour and the Discovery Talk. The visitor center hours, kiosk, theater, and tour times vary by season. The visitor center is located below the parking lot and is accessible by a ramp or stairs. }} ==Get in== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The visitor center is on '''US Highway 16''', {{mi|13}} west of [[Custer]] and {{mi|24}} east of [[Newcastle (Wyoming)]]. ===By plane=== The nearest airport is in [[Rapid City]], {{mi|54}} from the visitor center. Car rental services are available. ==Fees and permits== Access to the above-ground portion of the monument is free. There are fees for the various cave tours, ranging from $16 to $45 for adults. The America the Beautiful (Interagency) Passes do not count towards these fees, nor provide any discounts in the park. ==Get around== The above-ground portion of the monument is only about {{sqmi|1}}. Walking paths and trails are found on the surface. Most of the action starts from the Visitor Center, where there is an elevator that goes down into the main cave entrance. There is also the {{marker|name=Historic Area|lat=43.73438|long=-103.84239}}, with a 1930s CCC ranger cabin and the original 1900 cave entrance used by the Historic Lantern Tour. ==See== *'''Wildflowers.''' There are copious amounts of wildflowers for the visitor's viewing pleasure. Do not pick, damage, or otherwise disturb the flowers. As you walk the trails, be cautious. ==Do== ===Cave tours=== [[File:Inside Jewel Cave National Monument - (14912447278).jpg|thumb|Inside the cave]] '''All cave access is by guided tour only.''' The monument offers a number of tours throughout the day. * {{do | name=Scenic Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/scenictour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about once an hour | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The cave's most popular tour. See a variety of speleothems (cave formations). Moderately strenuous, lasts 1 hour 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Discovery Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/discoverytour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Year-round, about every 1-2 hours | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A quick introduction to Jewel Cave's natural and cultural histories, at the large "Target Room." Easy (but with stairs), lasts 20 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Historic Lantern Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/lanterntour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Check in at the Historic Area, about {{mi|1}} west of the Visitor Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Jun-Sep, about five times daily | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Carry an old-style lantern {{mi|0.25}} down the original cave entrance, through narrow passageways and steep wooden steps. This tour is unpaved and requires some stooping, and lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes. }} * {{do | name=Wild Caving Tour | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/jeca/planyourvisit/wildcavingtour.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=May-Sep, select days | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Put on a hard hat and squeeze through the cave in its natural state. You scramble over cave "breakdown," chimney between cave walls, use a rope assist to climb a nearly vertical wall, and belly-crawl through tight passages; you must pass through an 8-1/2 inch by 24-inch crawl space before the tour. Along the way you learn about low-impact caving, caving techniques and safety. The tour lasts 3 to 4 hours. }} Tour sizes are limited. '''[https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/10088103 Tours can be reserved up to 2-3 months in advance on Recreation.gov]'''. Same day tickets are not guaranteed, and it is common for tours to sell out during the summer months. The cave is 49&deg;F (9.4&deg;C) year round. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. ===Hiking=== * {{do | name=Roof Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=South side of visitor center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|0.25}} loop. }} * {{do | name=Canyons Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=From the Roof Trail or the Historic Area | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content={{mi|3.5}} loop. }} ===Birdwatching=== There are many birds to be seen in the National Monument, including the occasional bald eagle. As you walk the trails, keep an eye out. ==Buy== ==Eat and drink== [[File:Bacon Strip Jewel Cave koopas.JPG|thumb|Cave bacon is not edible.]] Other than vending machines, there is no food service at the cave. The nearest restaurants are in Custer or Newcastle, Wyoming. Food and drink are not allowed in the cave. ==Sleep== There is no lodging in the National Monument. The nearest accommodations are in [[Custer]]. ===Backcountry=== Jewel Cave is surrounded by the '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]''', and, as with nearly all U.S. National Forests, you can pitch a tent pretty much anywhere as long as you get away from the road and do not go down any roads marked as private. ==Stay safe== A guided tour of the cave is quite safe. However, stay with the tour guide, as unmarked parts of the cave are not lit and it is easy to get lost. ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 16.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Gillette]] | minorl1=[[Moorcroft]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Rapid City]] | minorr1=[[Custer]] }} {{usablepark}} {{geo|43.729444|-103.829444}} {{isPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} {{related|United_States_National_Parks}} 8k81glwhpsfgy0fvb5rojwx52e6x9ko 0 16996 5091379 4971492 2025-07-11T11:37:56Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Eat */ move from region article 5091379 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Karlshamns kastell banner.jpg}} '''Karlshamn''' is a city in the [[Blekinge]] province of southern Sweden. Karlshamn attracts visitors to the salmon fisheries in "Mörrumsån", to the rocky coastline and the Hällaryd archipelago and to the wooded hinterland. East of the city centre the famous Eriksbergs Viltpark is located. ==Understand== ===Local information=== * [http://www.karlshamn.se/EN/ Karlshamn city] website ==Get in== Karlshamn is connected by railway, and the nearest major stations are [[Kristianstad]] to the west and [[Kalmar]] to the east. Tourism peaks in June–August, when there is regular boat connection and accommodation service to islands like Tärnö. [http://www.dfdsseaways.co.uk/ferry-routes/ DFDS Seaways] provides a few places for passengers on their near daily service to [[Klaipeda]] in [[Lithuania]], on board ro-ro freight ferries. The journey takes around 15 hours. * {{go | name=Karlshamn railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=56.1763 | long=14.8678 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-06-02 | content= }} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} ===By taxi=== * {{listing | type=go | name=TaxiKurir Karlshamn | url=https://www.taxikurir.se/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 455 81 000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-21 | content=Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. }} ==See== * Axel Olsson's statue of '''Karl-Oskar and Kristina''' * '''[http://www.karlshamnsmuseum.se/ The Cultural Centre]''', Vinkelgatan 8. Historic buildings of Swedish punsch factory, the silver forge, the art gallery, the print workshop and merchant houses converted into a museum. * {{see | name=Eriksberg | alt= | url=http://www.eriksberg.nu/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A wildlife park with a conference centre, and Scandinavia's only wild population of European bison. It is an old farmstead with surrounding land now host to a variety of native animals such as European Bison, Crown Deer, Moose and wild boar amongst others. }} ==Do== * '''[http://www.kreativum.se/ Kreativum Science Centre]''', Strömmavägen 28. ==Buy== ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== * '''[http://www.hihostels.com/dba/hostels-Karlshamn-054022.en.htm Hostel Karlshamn]{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', Surbrunnsvägen 1C, tel. +46 454 14040. Double 420&nbsp;kr. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{geo|56.1667|14.8500}} {{IsPartOf|Blekinge}} {{outlinecity}} 3bsfldqdnzxglzi6tne74sf2zg0yjsh 5091382 5091379 2025-07-11T11:39:11Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* See */ move from region article 5091382 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Karlshamns kastell banner.jpg}} '''Karlshamn''' is a city in the [[Blekinge]] province of southern Sweden. Karlshamn attracts visitors to the salmon fisheries in "Mörrumsån", to the rocky coastline and the Hällaryd archipelago and to the wooded hinterland. East of the city centre the famous Eriksbergs Viltpark is located. ==Understand== ===Local information=== * [http://www.karlshamn.se/EN/ Karlshamn city] website ==Get in== Karlshamn is connected by railway, and the nearest major stations are [[Kristianstad]] to the west and [[Kalmar]] to the east. Tourism peaks in June–August, when there is regular boat connection and accommodation service to islands like Tärnö. [http://www.dfdsseaways.co.uk/ferry-routes/ DFDS Seaways] provides a few places for passengers on their near daily service to [[Klaipeda]] in [[Lithuania]], on board ro-ro freight ferries. The journey takes around 15 hours. * {{go | name=Karlshamn railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=56.1763 | long=14.8678 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-06-02 | content= }} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} ===By taxi=== * {{listing | type=go | name=TaxiKurir Karlshamn | url=https://www.taxikurir.se/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 455 81 000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-21 | content=Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. }} ==See== * Axel Olsson's statue of '''Karl-Oskar and Kristina''' * '''[http://www.karlshamnsmuseum.se/ The Cultural Centre]''', Vinkelgatan 8. Historic buildings of Swedish punsch factory, the silver forge, the art gallery, the print workshop and merchant houses converted into a museum. * {{see | name=Eriksberg | alt= | url=http://www.eriksberg.nu/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A wildlife park with a conference centre, and Scandinavia's only wild population of European bison. It is an old farmstead with surrounding land now host to a variety of native animals such as European Bison, Crown Deer, Moose and wild boar amongst others. }} *{{see | name=Abu museum | alt= | url= | email=veikkohemming@hotmail.com | address=Holländarevägen 86, Svängsta | lat=56.26589237959926 | long=14.768834931008527 | directions= | phone=+46 702 236 142 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups during the summer season. M-F 13:00-16:00, Sa 12:30-15:00 | price= | content=Private museum with artifacts of the historical and reknown Halda factory that produced pocket watches, typewriters and taxicab meters. The company later produced sport fishing rods and wheels, which today has the company name Abu Garcia. }} *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat=56.370176902027794 | long=14.680917484081194 | directions= | phone=+46 454 774 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} ==Do== * '''[http://www.kreativum.se/ Kreativum Science Centre]''', Strömmavägen 28. ==Buy== ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== * '''[http://www.hihostels.com/dba/hostels-Karlshamn-054022.en.htm Hostel Karlshamn]{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', Surbrunnsvägen 1C, tel. +46 454 14040. Double 420&nbsp;kr. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{geo|56.1667|14.8500}} {{IsPartOf|Blekinge}} {{outlinecity}} iwmz92vusku3iy3b5vxirn1comcaz8u 5091384 5091382 2025-07-11T11:40:17Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* See */ 5091384 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Karlshamns kastell banner.jpg}} '''Karlshamn''' is a city in the [[Blekinge]] province of southern Sweden. Karlshamn attracts visitors to the salmon fisheries in "Mörrumsån", to the rocky coastline and the Hällaryd archipelago and to the wooded hinterland. East of the city centre the famous Eriksbergs Viltpark is located. ==Understand== ===Local information=== * [http://www.karlshamn.se/EN/ Karlshamn city] website ==Get in== Karlshamn is connected by railway, and the nearest major stations are [[Kristianstad]] to the west and [[Kalmar]] to the east. Tourism peaks in June–August, when there is regular boat connection and accommodation service to islands like Tärnö. [http://www.dfdsseaways.co.uk/ferry-routes/ DFDS Seaways] provides a few places for passengers on their near daily service to [[Klaipeda]] in [[Lithuania]], on board ro-ro freight ferries. The journey takes around 15 hours. * {{go | name=Karlshamn railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=56.1763 | long=14.8678 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-06-02 | content= }} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} ===By taxi=== * {{listing | type=go | name=TaxiKurir Karlshamn | url=https://www.taxikurir.se/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 455 81 000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-21 | content=Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. }} ==See== * Axel Olsson's statue of '''Karl-Oskar and Kristina''' * '''[http://www.karlshamnsmuseum.se/ The Cultural Centre]''', Vinkelgatan 8. Historic buildings of Swedish punsch factory, the silver forge, the art gallery, the print workshop and merchant houses converted into a museum. * {{see | name=Eriksberg | alt= | url=http://www.eriksberg.nu/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A wildlife park with a conference centre, and Scandinavia's only wild population of European bison. It is an old farmstead with surrounding land now host to a variety of native animals such as European Bison, Crown Deer, Moose and wild boar amongst others. }} *{{see | name=Abu museum | alt= | url= | email=veikkohemming@hotmail.com | address=Holländarevägen 86, Svängsta | lat=56.26589237959926 | long=14.768834931008527 | directions= | phone=+46 702 236 142 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups during the summer season. M-F 13:00-16:00, Sa 12:30-15:00 | price= | content=Private museum with artifacts of the historical and reknown Halda factory that produced pocket watches, typewriters and taxicab meters. The company later produced sport fishing rods and wheels, which today has the company name Abu Garcia. }} *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat=56.370176902027794 | long=14.680917484081194 | directions= | phone=+46 454 774 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} *{{see | name=Stenmuséet i Vilshult | alt= | url=https://www.hembygd.se/kyrkhult/stenmuseet | email= | address=Södra Fröatorpsvägen 22, Vilshult | lat=56.353330870680146 | long=14.476420557220443 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=5 July to 3 August 2025, Sat-Sun: 13:00-16:00 | content=Private museum owned by the local Kyrkhult Heritage Society. The museum has artifacts illustrating the historical quarrying of diabase rocks in Vilshult. }} ==Do== * '''[http://www.kreativum.se/ Kreativum Science Centre]''', Strömmavägen 28. ==Buy== ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== * '''[http://www.hihostels.com/dba/hostels-Karlshamn-054022.en.htm Hostel Karlshamn]{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', Surbrunnsvägen 1C, tel. +46 454 14040. Double 420&nbsp;kr. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{geo|56.1667|14.8500}} {{IsPartOf|Blekinge}} {{outlinecity}} e0ppw34c3ckeabfl6vcsehzsto9l6vg 5091387 5091384 2025-07-11T11:41:16Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Sleep */ move from region article 5091387 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Karlshamns kastell banner.jpg}} '''Karlshamn''' is a city in the [[Blekinge]] province of southern Sweden. Karlshamn attracts visitors to the salmon fisheries in "Mörrumsån", to the rocky coastline and the Hällaryd archipelago and to the wooded hinterland. East of the city centre the famous Eriksbergs Viltpark is located. ==Understand== ===Local information=== * [http://www.karlshamn.se/EN/ Karlshamn city] website ==Get in== Karlshamn is connected by railway, and the nearest major stations are [[Kristianstad]] to the west and [[Kalmar]] to the east. Tourism peaks in June–August, when there is regular boat connection and accommodation service to islands like Tärnö. [http://www.dfdsseaways.co.uk/ferry-routes/ DFDS Seaways] provides a few places for passengers on their near daily service to [[Klaipeda]] in [[Lithuania]], on board ro-ro freight ferries. The journey takes around 15 hours. * {{go | name=Karlshamn railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=56.1763 | long=14.8678 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-06-02 | content= }} ==Get around== {{mapframe}} ===By taxi=== * {{listing | type=go | name=TaxiKurir Karlshamn | url=https://www.taxikurir.se/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 455 81 000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-21 | content=Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. }} ==See== * Axel Olsson's statue of '''Karl-Oskar and Kristina''' * '''[http://www.karlshamnsmuseum.se/ The Cultural Centre]''', Vinkelgatan 8. Historic buildings of Swedish punsch factory, the silver forge, the art gallery, the print workshop and merchant houses converted into a museum. * {{see | name=Eriksberg | alt= | url=http://www.eriksberg.nu/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A wildlife park with a conference centre, and Scandinavia's only wild population of European bison. It is an old farmstead with surrounding land now host to a variety of native animals such as European Bison, Crown Deer, Moose and wild boar amongst others. }} *{{see | name=Abu museum | alt= | url= | email=veikkohemming@hotmail.com | address=Holländarevägen 86, Svängsta | lat=56.26589237959926 | long=14.768834931008527 | directions= | phone=+46 702 236 142 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups during the summer season. M-F 13:00-16:00, Sa 12:30-15:00 | price= | content=Private museum with artifacts of the historical and reknown Halda factory that produced pocket watches, typewriters and taxicab meters. The company later produced sport fishing rods and wheels, which today has the company name Abu Garcia. }} *{{see | name=Ebbamåla bruk | alt= | url=http://www.ebbamalabruk.se/index.php?lan=en | email=info@ebbamalabruk.se | address=Hovmandsbygdsvägen 610, Kyrkhult | lat=56.370176902027794 | long=14.680917484081194 | directions= | phone=+46 454 774 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open for pre-booked groups | price= | content=Old cast iron factory that has been left intact since it was closed in the 1960s. It is now a museum on the industrial history in Sweden spanning a century from 1850 to 1950. }} *{{see | name=Stenmuséet i Vilshult | alt= | url=https://www.hembygd.se/kyrkhult/stenmuseet | email= | address=Södra Fröatorpsvägen 22, Vilshult | lat=56.353330870680146 | long=14.476420557220443 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=5 July to 3 August 2025, Sat-Sun: 13:00-16:00 | content=Private museum owned by the local Kyrkhult Heritage Society. The museum has artifacts illustrating the historical quarrying of diabase rocks in Vilshult. }} ==Do== * '''[http://www.kreativum.se/ Kreativum Science Centre]''', Strömmavägen 28. ==Buy== ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Röshults Vedugnsbageri | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/R%C3%B6shults-Vedugnsbageri/100057412571781/ | email= | address=Röshultsvägen 71-9, Röshult | lat=56.3384 | long=14.6577 | directions= | phone=+46 72 543 20 92 | tollfree= | hours=Saturdays in the summer season: 10:00-14:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-07-10 | content=This rural café lies within an old barn that has been equipped with a 20 tons wood fired oven. Using 50 to 75 kilograms of wood they bake up to 400 breads of different sizes. It is possible to order pizzas as well. Open on a regular basis in the summer and on occasions announced via Facebook. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== * '''[http://www.hihostels.com/dba/hostels-Karlshamn-054022.en.htm Hostel Karlshamn]{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', Surbrunnsvägen 1C, tel. +46 454 14040. Double 420&nbsp;kr. *{{sleep | name=Tjärö | alt= | url=https://tjaro.com/?lang=en | email=info@tjaro.com | address=Tjärö, Bräkne-Hoby | lat=56.171529 | long=15.048966 | directions= | phone=+46 454 60063 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Tjärö is an island owned by the Swedish Tourist Society. It's open from 2 May to 21 September 2025. There is both a hotel and a hostel with a restaurant and café. }} ==Connect== ==Go next== {{geo|56.1667|14.8500}} {{IsPartOf|Blekinge}} {{outlinecity}} ncz2abgeup2ydk1g99x9433n0pucbch 0 16997 5091377 4890888 2025-07-11T11:35:59Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Eat */ move from region article 5091377 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Karlskrona banner Gamla mastkranen.jpg|unesco=yes}} '''Karlskrona''', archaic spelling ''Carlskrona'', is a city in [[Blekinge]] in southern Sweden. While the city has 37,000 inhabitants (2021), around 60,000 live in the municipality, ''Karlskrona kommun''. The town hosts a naval base and is the largest city in the county of [[Blekinge]]. The old shipyard, the naval base's oldest constructions, and the three churches on Trossö island are listed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage]] list. ==Understand== The city was established as a naval base in 1680, during the reign of King Karl XI, after whom the town is named (Karlskrona: Karl's Crown). King Karl XI was tired of having his fleet constantly frozen up in Stockholm during the harsh winters and was therefore looking for a port further south. This was at the height of the [[Swedish Empire]] and there were grand plans to eventually develop Karlskrona into a new Swedish capital. However, the city was built according to a plan by Erik Dahlbergh and the settlement did not begin in earnest until the late 1680s. The shipyard soon became Sweden's largest industry, employing 1,100 people in 1711. By the mid-17th century, more than 10,000 people lived in the town and about 2/3 of the workforce was employed by the Crown. At this time, Karlskrona was the third largest city in the kingdom. Karlskrona's strategic location gave it the right to engage in foreign trade. Gustaf III invested in an increase in the naval fleet, which boosted Karlskrona's good economic status. In 1790, the city burned and the boom turned into economic stagnation. The town plan did not change significantly. At the end of the 19th century there were major changes in the naval fleet with the gradual transition to more modern warships. The arrival of the railway (Carlskrona-Wexiö Railway, CWJ) and industrialisation contributed to the greatly increased prosperity. In addition to the increase in population and general economic prosperity, this was also reflected in the planting of trees along the main streets, creating avenues that are still partly in existence. Military dominance has now been replaced by increased civilian industrial influence, including in the telecommunications industry.[[Image:Karlskrona Lighthouse.jpg|thumb|300px|The Karlskrona Lighthouse]] The town centre lies 5 km south from the mainland on the island Trossö. ===Tourist office=== * {{listing | name=Karlskrona Turistbyrå | alt= | url=https://www.visitkarlskrona.se/en/about-us | email=visit@karlskrona.se | address=Skeppsbrokajen 10 | lat=56.167729 | long=15.590018 | directions=Karlskrona Citymarina | phone=+46 455 30 34 90 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-13:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-04-21 | content= }} ==Get in== ===By train=== Direct trains runs at least every two hours from [[Copenhagen]] via [[Malmö]] and [[Kristianstad]]. From [[Kalmar]], [[Gothenburg]] or [[Stockholm]] a change of trains in [[Alvesta]], [[Emmaboda]] or [[Hässleholm]] is required. Ticket can be bought from '''[https://www.sj.se/en/home.html#/ SJ]{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. The station, {{marker|type=go|name=Karlskrona Centralstation|lat=56.166319|long=15.585435}} is found at the northern end of the city centre. ===By plane=== Karlskrona-Ronneby Airport is approximately 30 km from Karlskrona centrum. Blekingetrafiken ({{phone|+46 455-569 00}}) operates an airport bus (Flygbussen) between Karlskrona and Ronneby airport, which is convenient and cost-effective. It leaves Karlskrona 80 minutes before the take-off times of flights to [[Stockholm Arlanda Airport|Arlanda]] and Bromma. The bus stops at several places in central Karlskrona, at the Hospital/Bergåsa, at Nättraby E22, at Hjortahammar junction and at Listerby. The bus costs around 95&nbsp;kr for adults and 45&nbsp;kr for children. ===By bus=== Long-distance buses are available from Stockholm and Malmö. ===By ferry=== '''[https://www.stenaline.com/ Stena Line]''' runs ferries two times a day from [[Gdynia]], [[Poland]] (day trip for a passenger with bike costs around 500 kr and takes 11 hours). The port, {{marker|type=go|name=Karlskrona Färjeterminal|lat=56.164765|long=15.630848}}, commonly known as '''Polenterminalen''', is on the nearby island of Verkö. Local bus #6 connects with the city centre. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|56.161296|15.587119|zoom=|height=|width=|layer=|staticmap=|align=|name=}} ===By bus=== There is a large local/regional bus network connecting Karlskrona Centrum with other regional locations. Bus fares are typically 20&nbsp;kr for adults. ===By ferry=== There are also boats/ferries to many islands within the archipelago, and it is possible to cruise around the archipelago for between 1½ and 3 hours in the summer months. Adult fare is 20&nbsp;kr, youth (<19 yr) is 15&nbsp;kr. ===By taxi=== * {{listing | type=go | name=TaxiKurir Karlskrona | url=https://www.taxikurir.se/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 455 81 000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-21 | content=Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. }} ==See== [[Image:marinmuseumet.JPG|thumb|300px|The front of the maritime museum]] [[Image:First_Swedish_Submarine.JPG|thumb|300px|Sweden's first submarine]] *{{see | name=Karlskrona Maritime Museum | alt= | url=http://www.marinmuseum.se/en/ | email= | address=Stumholmen | lat=56.160795 | long=15.598943 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q10577450 | content=A very large maritime museum on the waterfront with spectacular vistas. Most of the exhibits are in Swedish, so be sure to pick up an audio guide. The exhibits consist principally of a very large and impressive collection of wooden ship models, and life-size interiors of ships that can be walked through. In addition to the museum itself, the complex houses a very popular smorgasbord that you'll find packed with Swedes from around 11:30 onwards, and a gift shop. Outside the museum you'll also find some disused ships/submarines that are worth a look, and Karlskrona's famous lighthouse. Price: 170/130&nbsp;kr for adults in the summer; free in the winter. }} *{{see | name=Brändaholm/Dragsö | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dragsö | lat=56.171508 | long=15.567783 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=No visit to Sweden would be complete without getting up close and personal with some cute little red wood houses and Dragsö does not disappoint when it comes to providing one of the best examples. The island has a gorgeous little cluster of red wood summer homes at Brändaholm. In addition to this, Dragsö has some lovely beaches; great for swimming in the summer and for quiet, isolated walks in the winter. Dragsö also hosts a large camp site, which includes all the usual amenities ''and'' a fun little mini golf course. Dragsö is a fair way out of Trossö, so consider taking a bus, putting on some good walking shoes or hiring a bike. }} [[Image:KarlskronaDivingBoard.JPG|thumb|200px|The diving board at the 'beach' on Stumholmen]] [[Image:brandaholm.JPG|thumb|300px|A view over Brändaholm from Saltö]] [[Image:Kronan.JPG|thumb|200px|Kronan, The road linking the centrum bus stop to the pedestrian mall]] * {{see | name=Trefaldighetskyrkan | alt= | url=https://www.svenskakyrkan.se/karlskrona/trefaldighetskyrkan | email= | address= | lat=56.160774 | long=15.585998 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=08:00-19:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2017-05-25 | content=Built on Karlskrona's main square by prisoners of war as a punishment, the Trefaldighetskyrkan is a cute yellow church with a spectacular interior dome - like a wooden version of Rome's pantheon. }} * {{see | name=Frederikskyrkan | alt= | url=https://www.svenskakyrkan.se/karlskrona/fredrikskyrkan | email= | address= | lat=56.161176 | long=15.587353 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-05-25 | content= }} * {{see | name=Amiralitetskyrkan | alt= | url=https://www.svenskakyrkan.se/amiralitetkarlskrona | email= | address= | lat=56.157030 | long=15.591022 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-05-25 | content=A temporary church built in 1681, it remains as a striking red wooden building down a lane surrounded by the naval reserve. In front is a statue of Rosenbom, a vagrant who froze to death. Lift his hat and insert a coin to assuage yourself of guilt about ignoring homeless people. }} * {{see | name=Clock Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=56.158326 | long=15.586330 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-05-25 | content=In parkland south of the main square is this yellow clock tower. Several of the defunct railway tunnels can be viewed from nearby. }} * {{see | name=Old Railway Tunnel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=56.162332 | long=15.586671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-05-25 | content=A railway was built through the hill containing the town square to link the main railway to the naval reserve. It's no longer used, but the tunnels can be viewed from several points. On the north side near the town park is best as you can walk up to the gates. }} * {{see | name=Old Workers Cottages | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=56.162098 | long=15.572013 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-05-25 | content=On the west side of Trossö north of the naval yard are several streets that feature a lot of the cute little cottages that were used by workers at the naval yard. }} * {{see | name=Stakholm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=56.164051 | long=15.576605 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-05-25 | content=A large rock connected by bridge to Trossö, Stakholm has 360-degree views and is a popular sunset picnic spot. }} ==Do== *{{do | name=Go Swimming! | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are lots of great places around the archipelago to go swimming on a summer day. Try the 'beach' near the Maritime Museum on Stumholmen with its diving board or the more natural equivalents on Dragsö. }} *{{do | name=Hire a Bike | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=While not completely flat, Karlskona is replete with the usual Scandinavian complement of bike paths and riding makes a good, healthy way to get around town and really take in the expansive natural beauty of the islands. Try Sportkompaniet at 9 Hantverkareg (near the junction with Konstapelsgatan): 100&nbsp;kr for 1 day; 170&nbsp;kr for 2 days; sliding scale for longer hires. }} *{{do | name=Hire a boat | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Blekinge Museum offers traditional boats from the region for day hire. }} *{{do | name=Boda Borg | url=http://www.bodaborg.com | email=karlskrona@bodaborg.se | address=Arenavägen 11 | lat=56.215993 | long=15.601288 | directions= | phone=+46 455-61 54 75 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Jun-Aug: M-F 10:00-18:00, Sa 10:00-19:00, Su 12:00-17:00; Sep-May: Tu 11:00-18:00 (pre-booked only), W Th 11:00-18:00, F 11:00-21:00, Sa 10:00-19:00, Su 12:00-17:00 | price=2 hours: 150 kr. Full day: 200 kr | content=Fun and adventure in unique quests. This place is great for quirky, ultra-competitive groups. }} ==Buy== *{{buy | name=Pedestrian Mall (Ronnebygatan and Rådhusg) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=While certainly no Stockholm or Copenhagen when it comes to shopping, little Karlskrona still punches above its weight when it comes to shopping. It has all the Scandinavian high street favourites, including an impressively large H&M, a Dressman and an Åhlens. In one of the malls off Rådhusg you'll also find an ICA (pronounced Ik-ka) supermarket, a range of smaller shops and the Systembolaget (the state owned, monopoly off-licence/bottle shop/liquor store), one of only two places in Karlskrona where you can buy beer and wine with alcohol content exceeding 3.5% and spirits for home consumption. }} ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Pedestrian Mall (Ronnebygatan and Rådhusg) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are a range of places to eat centred around the main pedestrian mall and the square on the top of the hill in Trossö. Perhaps it's best to take the same approach as the Swedes and cruise the mall until you find something you like the look of. Watch out for smörgåsbord offerings, like at the restaurant above Åhlens (75&nbsp;kr for the smörgåsbord, including an assortment of dishes, a light beer or sparkling water, bread, salad, tea and coffee). Other options include the multiplicity of kebab shops (with seating), the ubiquitous Wayne's Coffee, the fantastic Tokio Sushi, PM (a pub in the same mall as McDonald's), caffe 1344 (located opposite ICA; a popular place for afternoon fika (coffee and cake) in the winter) and the bustling smörgåsbord inside the Maritime Museum. }} *{{eat | name=Kafé Måsen | alt= | url=https://www.kafemasen.se/ | email= | address=Skeppnabbavägen 39, Torhamn | lat=56.09296101758778 | long=15.824166157693076 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open in the summer season (weeks 26-32): Su-Tu 11:00-19:00, W-Sa 11:00-22:00. Otherwise open week-ends only from May to mid-August | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Kafé Måsen (The Seagull Café) is an eatery with live music at no extra charge during the summer season. }} ==Drink== *{{drink | name=Pedestrian Mall (Ronnebygatan and Rådhusg) / Town Square | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Start in the pedestrian mall and crawl your way along and up towards the main town square. Places come in and out of vogue regularly, but some that have consistent popularity include the Fox and Anchor (an English style pub; regrettably no relation of its cracking Gastropub namesake by Smithfield Market in London), and the rather lame PM. }} ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=First Hotel Ja | url=http://www.firsthotels.se/Vara-Hotell/Hotell-i-Sverige/Karlskrona/First-Hotel-JA/ | email= | address=Borgmästaregatan 13 | lat=56.161501 | long=15.583496 | directions= | phone=+46 455 555 60 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Inexpensive 4-star hotel attached to the Wachtmeister shopping centre just off the central square. Rooms are smallish but efficiently designed, and decorated in a vaguely nautical style. Includes breakfast and wireless internet, and free hot drinks are available in the lobby. Just under 1 km from Central Station (if you have luggage, it's best to loop around the waterfront, as the direct route is hilly). }} *{{sleep | name=Pedestrian Mall (Ronnebygatan and Rådhusg) / Town Square | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=There are a range of places in the city centre, most of a reasonable standard, although in typical Scandinavian style, they don't come cheap. Consider using an online booking engine to find the cheapest prices. }} *{{sleep | name=Camping / Summer Cottages | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 455 30 34 90 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=In the summer months, consider camping on Dragsö (can be quite expensive in busiest days, i.e. more than 350 kr for a tentsite) or renting a summer cottage. Contact the tourist office for more information. }} If you leave early for Poland with a Stena Line ferry, you may consider spending last night in tent wild camping on Verkö island. ==Go next== ===Day trip to Aspö=== Take the large yellow Aspö ferry from Karlskrona Harbour (near the bridge to Stumholmen) to Aspö (30 min) and spend the day enjoying the rugged island beaches, tiny shops and old military fort. The ring road around Aspö is about 6 km long and, in addition to the beaches and fort, Aspö also hosts a small yacht club and a number of summer cottages. Amenities are rather sparse even in the busiest summer months, when there are only a few basic places to eat and stay. In the winter months (i.e. outside the June to August period), the only place to buy things is the local ICA supermarket and most (if not all) other things will be closed. The ferry is part of the Swedish road system and so is free for vehicles, bicycles and foot passengers in both directions. [[Image:ASPO.JPG|thumb|200px|The main road into Aspö]] ===Ronneby=== [[Ronneby]] is an old spa town with a spectacular park and forest 30 minutes by train from Karlskrona. {{usablecity}} {{isPartOf|Blekinge}} {{geo|56.18305556|15.63305556}} j2k2u04kaosci6sjj3ot41rmotowf2b 0 17612 5091077 5077545 2025-07-10T22:23:00Z Anyone150 1516949 /* By public transit */ 5091077 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner|Wikivoyage page banner crabs on ice.jpg|caption=Dungeness Crabs for sale in King County}} '''King County''' is the largest county in [[Washington (state)|Washington State]] by population, home to roughly 30% of the state's residents. It stretches from [[Puget Sound]] to the Cascade Range, encompassing the major cities of [[Seattle]] and [[Bellevue]] and their sprawling suburbs, as well as wide stretches of rural farmland and uninhabited mountain terrain. ==Cities== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} {{mapshapes|Q7564853}} <!-- Sounder commuter rail --> {{mapshapes|Q2778618}} <!-- Link light rail --> [[File:Puget sound, cascade mountains and rain clouds.jpg|thumb|300px|Ships on Puget Sound with the Cascade Mountains]] * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Seattle]] | wikidata= }} — the seat of King County and the Pacific Northwest's largest city, with an extensive range of attractions The rest of the county is described by its location relative to Seattle and Lake Washington. ===North King County=== Largely upscale suburbia, heavily residential. * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Bothell]] | wikidata=Q303046 }} — commercial center of the north county * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Shoreline]] | wikidata=Q983657 }} — a northern suburb of Seattle, home to Kruckeberg Botanic Garden * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Woodinville]] | wikidata=Q986378 }} — the sales floor of the Washington wine industry ===The Eastside=== The cities to the east of Lake Washington became the Pacific Northwest's original tech hub, with some of the area's most high-end development. * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Bellevue]] | wikidata=Q214164 }} — the second largest city in King County and Seattle's largest suburb, home to an art museum and a botanical garden * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Issaquah]] | wikidata=Q40251 }} — has an attractive old town and hosts a salmon festival * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Kirkland]] | wikidata=Q936768 }} — a charming lakefront city with a collection of outdoor sculptures * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Mercer Island]] | wikidata=Q954095 }} — a small city located on an island of the same name in Lake Washington * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Redmond (Washington)|Redmond]] | wikidata=Q223718}} — home to Microsoft and Nintendo of America ===South King County=== Most visitors will only see the [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport|Sea-Tac Airport]], in the city of SeaTac. (The airport's name came first.) These largely-industrial cities spread towards [[Pierce County (Washington)|Pierce County]], soon reaching [[Tacoma]]. * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Auburn (Washington)|Auburn]] | wikidata=Q661595 }} — factory town in the White River Valley with several entertainment venues, next to the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Burien]] | wikidata=Q984825}} — 'Old Town' Burien has a wide variety of shops and restaurants and has held onto the area's early charm * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Federal Way]] | wikidata=Q821112 }} — home of the Pacific Bonsai Museum and Rhododendron Species Botanical Gardens * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Kent (Washington)|Kent]] | wikidata=Q844008 }} — a commuter town and manufacturing hub * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Renton]] | wikidata=Q679952 }} — dominated by Boeing's 737 factory * {{marker | type=city | name=[[SeaTac]] | wikidata=Q985072 }} — the city that named itself after an airport * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Tukwila]] | wikidata=Q1510339 }} — visit the Museum of Flight, an air and space museum * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Vashon Island]] | wikidata=Q1505272 }} — the largest island in Puget Sound, with a distinctly rural character * {{marker | type=city | name=[[White Center]] | wikidata=Q1511304 }} — the area has embraced its punk rock, mixed-ethnicity identity ===Cascade Foothills=== The rural, sparsely distributed towns of the far east county are the respite from the sprawl: * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Black Diamond (Washington)|Black Diamond]] | wikidata=Q1191152}} * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Enumclaw]] | wikidata=Q1513207}} — a northern gateway to Mount Rainier * {{marker | type=city | name=[[North Bend (Washington)|North Bend]] | wikidata=Q301889}} — David Lynch's television series ''Twin Peaks'' was partially filmed here * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Snoqualmie]] | wikidata=Q1000951}} — historic railroad and logging town, home to the impressive Snoqualmie Falls * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Snoqualmie Valley]] | wikidata=Q7548053}} — a rural agricultural valley on the edge of the mountains, including the towns of '''Duvall''', '''Carnation''', and '''Fall City'''. ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Snoqualmie Pass]]|wikidata=Q1513823}} — a Cascades ski resort on the eastern edge of the county, along I-90 * {{marker|name=[[Stevens Pass]]|wikidata=Q3494853}} — a Cascades ski resort on the eastern edge of the county, along US-2 ==Understand== ===Local information === * [https://kingcounty.gov/ King County Council] website ==Get in== ===By car=== [[File:I-5.svg|25px]] '''Interstate 5''' (I-5) is the major north-south highway, running near the coast through [[Seattle]] to [[Snohomish County]] and [[Pierce County (Washington)|Pierce County]] [[File:I-90.svg|25px]] '''Interstate 90''' (I-90) runs east from [[Seattle]] through [[Bellevue]] and [[Issaquah]] to [[Snoqualmie Pass]] and [[Kittitas County]]. [[File:I-405.svg|25px]] [[File:WA-518.svg|25px]] The notoriously congested '''Interstate 405''' (I-405) splits off from I-5 at [[Tukwila]] in the south and [[Lynnwood]] in the north, serving [[Bellevue]] and the other cities of the Eastside. From the I-5/405 junction in [[Tukwila]] I-405 becomes SR-518 which continues west to SR-509 in [[Burien]] via [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]]. ===By plane=== {{marker|type=go|name=[[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]]|url=|lat=47.443599 | long=-122.302618 }}, ({{IATA|SEA}}), called "SeaTac" by locals, it connects Seattle to all regions of the U.S. and the world, especially with frequent transpacific routes but, also to Europe, Mexico and the Middle East as well. Competition is fierce and fares are low on service to the [[Bay Area (California)|San Francisco Bay Area]] and [[Southern California]] with multiple airlines. In addition to SeaTac, there are airports serviced by seaplanes and charter flights at: * {{marker|type=go|name=King County International Airport/Boeing Field|url=https://www.kingcounty.gov/services/airport.aspx|lat=47.53685 | long=-122.30389}} ({{IATA|BFI}}) which serves as an airport for cargo flights, general aviation, VIP flights, and Boeing test flights as well as Boeing manufacturing activities. It is also the location for the aviation museum. Commercial aviation is only with Kenmore Air. * {{marker|type=go|name=South Lake Union Airport|lat=47.62859 | long=-122.33983}} ({{IATA|LKE}}) is a base for Seaplanes which are another popular way to travel around Puget Sound with several airlines based out of Seattle including '''[http://www.kenmoreair.com/ Kenmore Air]''' serving areas all around Puget Sound and Canada and '''[https://www.harbourair.com/ Harbour Air]''' to Vancouver's Coal Harbour. Kenmore Air offers shuttle transfer from SeaTac to their terminal on the shores of Lake Union and King County International Airport (Boeing Field). * {{marker|type=go|name=Renton Municipal Airport|url=https://www.rentonwa.gov/city_hall/public_works/renton_municipal_airport|lat=47.49193663756831 | long=-122.21736269670977}} ({{IATA|RNT}}), farther from downtown than Boeing Field but still closer than Sea-Tac Airport, is another option for general aviation, with a sea plane dock at the north end of the airport on Lake Washington known as Wiley Post Memorial Seaplane Base. This airport only has basic facilities and no terminal building, but customs and immigration facilities are available for international arrivals with prior arrangement. Operators include '''[https://fridayharborseaplanes.com/ Friday Harbor Seaplanes]''' and '''[http://www.nwseaplanes.com/ Northwest Seaplanes]'''. ===By boat=== * '''[https://wsdot.wa.gov/travel/washington-state-ferries Washington State Ferries (WSF)]''' operates the following within King County and from King to Kitsap County in the other side of Puget Sound: :* [[File:WA-305.svg|25px]] [[Seattle/Downtown|downtown Seattle (Pier 52)]] and [[Bainbridge Island#Get in|Bainbridge Island]] :* [[File:WA-304.svg|25px]] [[Seattle/Downtown|downtown Seattle (Pier 52)]] and [[Bremerton#Get in|Bremerton]] :* [[File:WA-160.svg|25px]] Fauntleroy (next to Fauntleroy Park) in [[Seattle/West|West Seattle]] to [[Vashon Island#Get in|Vashon Island]] and [[Southworth#Get in|Southworth]]. :All Washington State ferries are for both vehicles and passengers. * {{marker|type=go|name=Kitsap Transit Fast Ferry|url=https://www.kitsaptransit.com/service/fast-ferry|lat=|long=}} operates the following passenger only ferry, from Pier 50 in Downtown Seattle to: :* [[Bremerton]] From Bermerton they operate another smaller and slower moving passenger only ferry to [[Port Orchard]]. :* [[Kingston_(Washington)#Get in|Kingston]] :* [[Southworth#Get in|Southworth]] in [[Kitsap Peninsula|Kitsap County]]. No stops in Vashon Island. From ferry terminals in Kitsap County passengers transfer to Kitsap Transit buses to go onward without a car. * '''[https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/metro/travel-options/water-taxi King County Water Taxi]''' connects [[Seattle/Downtown|downtown Seattle (Pier 50)]] to Seacrest Park in [[Seattle/West|West Seattle]] and [[Vashon Island]] on two separate routes. This operates as a passenger only ferry. * High Speed Catamaran by '''[https://www.clippervacations.com/seattle-victoria-ferry/ Clipper Vacations]''' connects [[Seattle]] to [[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]], [[British Columbia]] ([[Canada]]) via [[Friday Harbor]] as a passenger only ferry from Pier 69 in the Seattle Waterfront. ==Get around== ===By public transit=== {{listing | name=King County Metro | alt= | url=https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/metro | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 206-553-3000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6411393 | lastedit=2023-06-13 | content=Operates bus, streetcar, and monorail routes in King County. Communities within the county served by this operator's routes include [[Auburn (Washington)|Auburn]], [[Bellevue]], [[Bothell]], [[Burien]], [[Federal Way]], [[Issaquah]], [[Kent (Washington)|Kent]], [[Kirkland]], [[Mercer Island]], [[North Bend (Washington)|North Bend]], [[Redmond (Washington)|Redmond]], [[Renton]], [[SeaTac]], [[Seattle]], [[Shoreline]], [[Tukwila]], [[Vashon Island]], [[White Center]], and [[Woodinville]]. }} The adult bus '''fare''' is $2.75 at all times and on all routes. The senior (ages 65 or older) fare is $1.00. Youth (18 and under) ride free. If you pay by cash (exact change only), you'll get a paper transfer good for within a 2-hour period to ride other King County Metro buses. An ORCA card allows you to transfer to other transit agencies within the same period of time for free. Note that you'll only need to tap in when you enter the bus, although in RapidRide, you can tap on the reader before getting on the bus and may board from the center and rear doors. To figure out how to get to your destination use the excellent '''[https://kingcounty.gov/depts/transportation/metro/trip-planner/info.aspx Trip Planner]''' which gives you point-to-point directions between points within King County. For '''real-time arrival times''', use the [https://onebusaway.org/ One Bus Away] or [https://transitapp.com/ Transit] app. Google Maps and Apple Maps also include real-time public transportation data for route planning. The number of the route also tells you which area of the county it serves: * '''Below 100''' - Seattle only * '''100s''' - South King County: Auburn, Burien, Federal Way, Kent, Renton, SeaTac, Tukwila, Vashon Island, White Center * '''200s''' - Eastside: Bellevue, Bothell, Issaquah, Kirkland, North Bend, Redmond, Sammamish, Duvall * '''300s''' - North King County: Aurora Village, Bothell, Northgate, Shoreline, Woodinville * '''400s & 800s''' - Reserved for '''[https://www.communitytransit.org Community Transit]''' commuter routes to Snohomish County from Downtown Seattle (400s) and University District (800s). Only as 412 between Snohomish and Downtown Seattle. Rest are not used * '''500s''' - Sound Transit routes operated by King County Metro are 522, 542, 545, 550, 554, 556, 566 * '''700s & 900s''' - DART (fixed) routes to serve surrounding lower density suburban or rural neighborhoods from a transit center or station in one of the cities served by King County Metro. There is some flexibility to deviate from the fixed route for drop off and pick-up. Appointments required for pick-up off their fixed routes. * '''RapidRide''' - operates as bus rapid in the area to serve fewer stops (spaced further apart), along the route on frequent schedules. Routes are identified by a letter (A-H) rather than by numbers. {{listing | name=Sound Transit | alt= | url=https://www.soundtransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-889-6368 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3965367 | lastedit=2023-06-16 | content=Has regional public transit routes including Sounder trains, Link light rail, and express bus in King County (e.g. [[Bellevue]], [[Federal Way]], [[Kent (Washington)|Kent]], [[Renton]], [[Seattle]]), Snohomish County (e.g. [[Everett (Washington)|Everett]], [[Lynnwood]]) and Pierce County (e.g. [[Puyallup]], [[Tacoma]]). }} * '''Link light rail''' operates throughout King County, running every 8-15 minutes from 5AM to 1AM: ** '''The 1 Line''' travels through Seattle north to Lynnwood and south to Angle Lake via [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]]. Construction is underway to extend the line south to Federal Way by 2026. ** '''The 2 Line''' travels from Redmond to South Bellevue via downtown Bellevue. Construction is underway to extend the line into downtown Seattle by 2026. * '''Sounder''' commuter rail service, operating weekday rush hours only, connects Seattle to [[Tacoma]] via Auburn, Kent and Tukwila on the 'S' Line Train and to Everett via Edmonds and Mukilteo on the 'N' Line train. Two separate routes. * Sound Transit has many convenient '''express bus routes''' that travel South (to Tacoma), East (Redmond, Bellevue), and North (Bothell, Lynnwood). Outside of the immediate Seattle-Bellevue area, many routes operate only during weekday rush hours. Check your schedules in advance, and beware of holiday service cutbacks. All Sound Transit routes have route numbers that are in the '''500s'''. ====ORCA Card==== The '''[https://www.myorca.com/ ORCA card]''' is a contactless fare card that enables you to ride and transfer seamlessly across most Puget Sound public transit agencies, including: King County Metro, Sound Transit, Community Transit, Everett Transit, Pierce Transit, Kitsap Transit, and Washington State Ferries. The card is $3, and you must put in a minimum of $5 in your '''e-purse''' to start using it. '''Day passes''' are available for $8 and can be used for all bus and train services. Monthly passes are also available. [https://support.myorca.com/hc/en-us/articles/10285980987277-How-to-request-a-refund You can request a refund of unused e-purse funds]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. ===By car=== All but essential for reaching the outermost suburbs and mountains. In addition to the interstates, major routes include: * [[File:WA-520.svg|25px]] '''SR-520''', linking Seattle's [[Seattle/University District|University District]] to [[Bellevue]] and [[Redmond (Washington)|Redmond]]. * [[File:WA-18.svg|25px]] '''SR-18''', a major freeway from I-5 (Exit 142) in Federal Way to I-90 (Exit 25) in [[Snoqualmie]], east of [[Issaquah]], through Black Diamond, Maple Valley and Covington * [[File:WA-167.svg|25px]] '''SR-167''', from Exit 2 of I-405 in [[Renton]] to [[Puyallup]] via [[Kent_(Washington)|Kent]], [[Auburn_(Washington)|Auburn]] (Jct SR-18), Pacific and Sumner. * [[File:WA-522.svg|25px]] '''SR-522''' branches from I-5 (Exit 171) to US-2 in [[Monroe_(Washington)|Monroe]] via Lake City Way in [[Seattle/North|N Seattle]], [[Bothell]], and [[Woodinville]] (Jct I-405). SR-522 goes around the northern shores of Lake Washington. Traffic congestion is a major problem in the Puget Sound area on all freeways and major roads. Avoid traveling during rush hour if you can, particularly along I-5 and across the Lake Washington bridges. ====Tolls==== There are '''tolls''' for the SR-520 floating bridge and the express lanes of I-405, with rates that vary by time of day and traffic levels. There are no toll booths. If the vehicle has a '''[https://mygoodtogo.com/EN/ "Good to Go" sticker]''' on the windshield, the toll is deducted from a prepaid account. Otherwise, transponders take a picture of the license plates, front and back, and mail the bill to the registered owner. Lake Washington is crossed by another floating bridge, across I-90, that is free. However, making a long detour around the lake will usually waste far more time than you'll save in toll money. ====Orientation==== King County has a somewhat convoluted address system that can be confusing to the uninitiated. From downtown Seattle, the county is divided into 7 compass directional sectors (N, NE, NW, W, E, S, SW; no SE section), with the name of the sector applied to every road that passes through that sector. North-south roads called Avenues that suffix the directional, and east-west roads being Streets that prefix the directional. Streets are written with the sector ''before'' the name (e.g. NE 45th Street or NE 45th) while avenues are written with the sector ''after'' the name (e.g. 45th Avenue NE or 45th NE). Locals often omit the directionals when describing places, but mapping websites and apps require them, and may send you miles out of your way if you don't specify them. Take this into consideration when looking for directions to a specific address. There are occasional irregularities: Ways are long roads that don't always conform to the grid, Drives are long, circuitous routes, and there are the very short Place or Court that dead ends on one end of the road. ==See== The majority of the area's most notable attractions are in [[Seattle]]. Outside of Seattle: * The region's most dramatic '''waterfall''' is Snoqualmie Falls in [[Snoqualmie]]. * The Pacific Bonsai Museum is in [[Federal Way]]. There are also impressive '''botanical gardens''' in [[Bellevue#Do|Bellevue]] and [[Shoreline#Do|Shoreline]]. * [[Burien]], [[Issaquah]], and [[Kirkland]] have thriving and '''walkable main streets'''. ==Do== The best '''hiking''' is along the I-90 corridor, starting in [[Issaquah#Do|Issaquah]] and continuing to [[North Bend (Washington)#Do|North Bend]] and [[Snoqualmie Pass]]; see the [[Mountains to Sound Greenway]] itinerary for more details. There is also excellent hiking along US-2, which enters King County for a short stretch; see the [[North Cascade Loop]] itinerary for more details. '''Water sports''' are popular on Lake Union (rentals in [[Seattle/South Lake Union#Do|South Lake Union]] and [[Seattle/University District#Do|University District]]), Lake Washingon (rentals in [[Kirkland#Do|Kirkland]] and [[Kenmore (Washington)|Kenmore]]), and Lake Sammamish (rentals in Issaquah). See the article for [[Puget Sound#Do|Puget Sound]] for details on getting out on salt water. The largest '''casinos''' are the Muckleshoot Casino near [[Auburn (Washington)|Auburn]] and the [[Snoqualmie#Do|Snoqualmie]] Casino. ==Buy== The '''Pike Place Market''' in [[Seattle/Downtown|Downtown Seattle]] is one of the region's most famous attractions. The largest '''malls''' are Bellevue Square in [[Bellevue#Buy|Bellevue]], Southcenter in [[Tukwila#Buy|Tukwila]], and University Village in [[Seattle/University District#Buy|Seattle's University District]]. ==Eat== [[Seattle#Eat|Seattle]] is the culinary heart of the region, and you can find most of what you're looking for there. Outside of Seattle: * The best '''Chinese''' and '''Indian''' '''cuisine''' are in [[Bellevue#Eat|Bellevue]] and [[Redmond (Washington)#Eat|Redmond]]. * The best '''Korean cuisine''' is in [[Federal Way]]. * The best '''Mexican cuisine''' is in [[White Center#Eat|White Center]]. * Notable '''high-end dining''' destinations can be found in Bellevue, [[Kirkland#Eat|Kirkland]], and [[Woodinville#Eat|Woodinville]] ==Drink== Most of the area's nightlife spots are in [[Seattle#Drink|Seattle]]. [[Renton]] also has a notable bar scene. [[Woodinville]] Wine Country is where '''wineries''' from across Washington State sell and market their wines. (Most of the grapes are grown in Eastern Washington.) Over 130 wineries and tasting rooms have a presence there. ==Go next== * The [[South Sound]], to the south, includes [[Tacoma]], [[Olympia_(Washington)|Olympia]] and [[Mount Rainier National Park]]. * The [[North Sound]], to the north, includes [[Everett_(Washington)|Everett]], [[Mukilteo]], [[Edmonds]], [[Snohomish]] and [[Whidbey Island]]. Further north are [[Anacortes]], [[Bellingham (Washington)|Bellingham]], and [[North Cascades National Park]]. * The [[Kitsap Peninsula]], to the west, includes [[Gig Harbor]], [[Bainbridge Island]], [[Port Orchard]] and [[Bremerton]]. Further west is [[Olympic National Park]]. * The [[North Central Cascades]], to the east, includes [[Ellensburg]], [[Cle Elum]] and [[Leavenworth (Washington)|Leavenworth]]. {{outlineregion}} {{geo|47.47|-121.84|zoom=9}} {{isPartOf|Puget_Sound}} g7kaze813jsvqju88i2zpvoa16dmom4 5091079 5091077 2025-07-10T22:25:59Z Anyone150 1516949 /* By public transit */ 5091079 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner|Wikivoyage page banner crabs on ice.jpg|caption=Dungeness Crabs for sale in King County}} '''King County''' is the largest county in [[Washington (state)|Washington State]] by population, home to roughly 30% of the state's residents. It stretches from [[Puget Sound]] to the Cascade Range, encompassing the major cities of [[Seattle]] and [[Bellevue]] and their sprawling suburbs, as well as wide stretches of rural farmland and uninhabited mountain terrain. ==Cities== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} {{mapshapes|Q7564853}} <!-- Sounder commuter rail --> {{mapshapes|Q2778618}} <!-- Link light rail --> [[File:Puget sound, cascade mountains and rain clouds.jpg|thumb|300px|Ships on Puget Sound with the Cascade Mountains]] * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Seattle]] | wikidata= }} — the seat of King County and the Pacific Northwest's largest city, with an extensive range of attractions The rest of the county is described by its location relative to Seattle and Lake Washington. ===North King County=== Largely upscale suburbia, heavily residential. * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Bothell]] | wikidata=Q303046 }} — commercial center of the north county * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Shoreline]] | wikidata=Q983657 }} — a northern suburb of Seattle, home to Kruckeberg Botanic Garden * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Woodinville]] | wikidata=Q986378 }} — the sales floor of the Washington wine industry ===The Eastside=== The cities to the east of Lake Washington became the Pacific Northwest's original tech hub, with some of the area's most high-end development. * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Bellevue]] | wikidata=Q214164 }} — the second largest city in King County and Seattle's largest suburb, home to an art museum and a botanical garden * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Issaquah]] | wikidata=Q40251 }} — has an attractive old town and hosts a salmon festival * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Kirkland]] | wikidata=Q936768 }} — a charming lakefront city with a collection of outdoor sculptures * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Mercer Island]] | wikidata=Q954095 }} — a small city located on an island of the same name in Lake Washington * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Redmond (Washington)|Redmond]] | wikidata=Q223718}} — home to Microsoft and Nintendo of America ===South King County=== Most visitors will only see the [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport|Sea-Tac Airport]], in the city of SeaTac. (The airport's name came first.) These largely-industrial cities spread towards [[Pierce County (Washington)|Pierce County]], soon reaching [[Tacoma]]. * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Auburn (Washington)|Auburn]] | wikidata=Q661595 }} — factory town in the White River Valley with several entertainment venues, next to the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Burien]] | wikidata=Q984825}} — 'Old Town' Burien has a wide variety of shops and restaurants and has held onto the area's early charm * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Federal Way]] | wikidata=Q821112 }} — home of the Pacific Bonsai Museum and Rhododendron Species Botanical Gardens * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Kent (Washington)|Kent]] | wikidata=Q844008 }} — a commuter town and manufacturing hub * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Renton]] | wikidata=Q679952 }} — dominated by Boeing's 737 factory * {{marker | type=city | name=[[SeaTac]] | wikidata=Q985072 }} — the city that named itself after an airport * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Tukwila]] | wikidata=Q1510339 }} — visit the Museum of Flight, an air and space museum * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Vashon Island]] | wikidata=Q1505272 }} — the largest island in Puget Sound, with a distinctly rural character * {{marker | type=city | name=[[White Center]] | wikidata=Q1511304 }} — the area has embraced its punk rock, mixed-ethnicity identity ===Cascade Foothills=== The rural, sparsely distributed towns of the far east county are the respite from the sprawl: * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Black Diamond (Washington)|Black Diamond]] | wikidata=Q1191152}} * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Enumclaw]] | wikidata=Q1513207}} — a northern gateway to Mount Rainier * {{marker | type=city | name=[[North Bend (Washington)|North Bend]] | wikidata=Q301889}} — David Lynch's television series ''Twin Peaks'' was partially filmed here * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Snoqualmie]] | wikidata=Q1000951}} — historic railroad and logging town, home to the impressive Snoqualmie Falls * {{marker | type=city | name=[[Snoqualmie Valley]] | wikidata=Q7548053}} — a rural agricultural valley on the edge of the mountains, including the towns of '''Duvall''', '''Carnation''', and '''Fall City'''. ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Snoqualmie Pass]]|wikidata=Q1513823}} — a Cascades ski resort on the eastern edge of the county, along I-90 * {{marker|name=[[Stevens Pass]]|wikidata=Q3494853}} — a Cascades ski resort on the eastern edge of the county, along US-2 ==Understand== ===Local information === * [https://kingcounty.gov/ King County Council] website ==Get in== ===By car=== [[File:I-5.svg|25px]] '''Interstate 5''' (I-5) is the major north-south highway, running near the coast through [[Seattle]] to [[Snohomish County]] and [[Pierce County (Washington)|Pierce County]] [[File:I-90.svg|25px]] '''Interstate 90''' (I-90) runs east from [[Seattle]] through [[Bellevue]] and [[Issaquah]] to [[Snoqualmie Pass]] and [[Kittitas County]]. [[File:I-405.svg|25px]] [[File:WA-518.svg|25px]] The notoriously congested '''Interstate 405''' (I-405) splits off from I-5 at [[Tukwila]] in the south and [[Lynnwood]] in the north, serving [[Bellevue]] and the other cities of the Eastside. From the I-5/405 junction in [[Tukwila]] I-405 becomes SR-518 which continues west to SR-509 in [[Burien]] via [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]]. ===By plane=== {{marker|type=go|name=[[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]]|url=|lat=47.443599 | long=-122.302618 }}, ({{IATA|SEA}}), called "SeaTac" by locals, it connects Seattle to all regions of the U.S. and the world, especially with frequent transpacific routes but, also to Europe, Mexico and the Middle East as well. Competition is fierce and fares are low on service to the [[Bay Area (California)|San Francisco Bay Area]] and [[Southern California]] with multiple airlines. In addition to SeaTac, there are airports serviced by seaplanes and charter flights at: * {{marker|type=go|name=King County International Airport/Boeing Field|url=https://www.kingcounty.gov/services/airport.aspx|lat=47.53685 | long=-122.30389}} ({{IATA|BFI}}) which serves as an airport for cargo flights, general aviation, VIP flights, and Boeing test flights as well as Boeing manufacturing activities. It is also the location for the aviation museum. Commercial aviation is only with Kenmore Air. * {{marker|type=go|name=South Lake Union Airport|lat=47.62859 | long=-122.33983}} ({{IATA|LKE}}) is a base for Seaplanes which are another popular way to travel around Puget Sound with several airlines based out of Seattle including '''[http://www.kenmoreair.com/ Kenmore Air]''' serving areas all around Puget Sound and Canada and '''[https://www.harbourair.com/ Harbour Air]''' to Vancouver's Coal Harbour. Kenmore Air offers shuttle transfer from SeaTac to their terminal on the shores of Lake Union and King County International Airport (Boeing Field). * {{marker|type=go|name=Renton Municipal Airport|url=https://www.rentonwa.gov/city_hall/public_works/renton_municipal_airport|lat=47.49193663756831 | long=-122.21736269670977}} ({{IATA|RNT}}), farther from downtown than Boeing Field but still closer than Sea-Tac Airport, is another option for general aviation, with a sea plane dock at the north end of the airport on Lake Washington known as Wiley Post Memorial Seaplane Base. This airport only has basic facilities and no terminal building, but customs and immigration facilities are available for international arrivals with prior arrangement. Operators include '''[https://fridayharborseaplanes.com/ Friday Harbor Seaplanes]''' and '''[http://www.nwseaplanes.com/ Northwest Seaplanes]'''. ===By boat=== * '''[https://wsdot.wa.gov/travel/washington-state-ferries Washington State Ferries (WSF)]''' operates the following within King County and from King to Kitsap County in the other side of Puget Sound: :* [[File:WA-305.svg|25px]] [[Seattle/Downtown|downtown Seattle (Pier 52)]] and [[Bainbridge Island#Get in|Bainbridge Island]] :* [[File:WA-304.svg|25px]] [[Seattle/Downtown|downtown Seattle (Pier 52)]] and [[Bremerton#Get in|Bremerton]] :* [[File:WA-160.svg|25px]] Fauntleroy (next to Fauntleroy Park) in [[Seattle/West|West Seattle]] to [[Vashon Island#Get in|Vashon Island]] and [[Southworth#Get in|Southworth]]. :All Washington State ferries are for both vehicles and passengers. * {{marker|type=go|name=Kitsap Transit Fast Ferry|url=https://www.kitsaptransit.com/service/fast-ferry|lat=|long=}} operates the following passenger only ferry, from Pier 50 in Downtown Seattle to: :* [[Bremerton]] From Bermerton they operate another smaller and slower moving passenger only ferry to [[Port Orchard]]. :* [[Kingston_(Washington)#Get in|Kingston]] :* [[Southworth#Get in|Southworth]] in [[Kitsap Peninsula|Kitsap County]]. No stops in Vashon Island. From ferry terminals in Kitsap County passengers transfer to Kitsap Transit buses to go onward without a car. * '''[https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/metro/travel-options/water-taxi King County Water Taxi]''' connects [[Seattle/Downtown|downtown Seattle (Pier 50)]] to Seacrest Park in [[Seattle/West|West Seattle]] and [[Vashon Island]] on two separate routes. This operates as a passenger only ferry. * High Speed Catamaran by '''[https://www.clippervacations.com/seattle-victoria-ferry/ Clipper Vacations]''' connects [[Seattle]] to [[Victoria (British Columbia)|Victoria]], [[British Columbia]] ([[Canada]]) via [[Friday Harbor]] as a passenger only ferry from Pier 69 in the Seattle Waterfront. ==Get around== ===By public transit=== {{listing | name=King County Metro | alt= | url=https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/metro | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 206-553-3000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6411393 | lastedit=2023-06-13 | content=Operates bus, streetcar, and monorail routes in King County. Communities within the county served by this operator's routes include [[Auburn (Washington)|Auburn]], [[Bellevue]], [[Bothell]], [[Burien]], [[Federal Way]], [[Issaquah]], [[Kent (Washington)|Kent]], [[Kirkland]], [[Mercer Island]], [[North Bend (Washington)|North Bend]], [[Redmond (Washington)|Redmond]], [[Renton]], [[SeaTac]], [[Seattle]], [[Shoreline]], [[Tukwila]], [[Vashon Island]], [[White Center]], and [[Woodinville]]. }} The adult bus '''fare''' is $2.75 at all times and on all routes. The senior (ages 65 or older) fare is $1.00. Youth (18 and under) ride free. If you pay by cash (exact change only), you'll get a paper transfer good for within a 2-hour period to ride other King County Metro buses. An ORCA card allows you to transfer to other transit agencies within the same period of time for free. Note that you'll only need to tap in when you enter the bus, although in RapidRide, you can tap on the reader before getting on the bus and may board from the center and rear doors. To figure out how to get to your destination use the excellent '''[https://kingcounty.gov/depts/transportation/metro/trip-planner/info.aspx Trip Planner]''' which gives you point-to-point directions between points within King County. For '''real-time arrival times''', use the [https://onebusaway.org/ One Bus Away] or [https://transitapp.com/ Transit] app. Google Maps and Apple Maps also include real-time public transportation data for route planning. The number of the route also tells you which area of the county it serves: * '''Below 100''' - Seattle only * '''100s''' - South King County: Auburn, Burien, Federal Way, Kent, Renton, SeaTac, Tukwila, Vashon Island, White Center * '''200s''' - Eastside: Bellevue, Bothell, Issaquah, Kirkland, North Bend, Redmond, Sammamish, Duvall * '''300s''' - North King County: Aurora Village, Bothell, Northgate, Shoreline, Woodinville * '''400s & 800s''' - Reserved for '''[https://www.communitytransit.org Community Transit]''' commuter routes to Snohomish County from Downtown Seattle (400s) and University District (800s). Only as 424 between Snohomish and Downtown Seattle. Rest are not used. * '''500s''' - Sound Transit routes operated by King County Metro are 522, 542, 545, 550, 554, 556, 566 * '''700s & 900s''' - DART (fixed) routes to serve surrounding lower density suburban or rural neighborhoods from a transit center or station in one of the cities served by King County Metro. There is some flexibility to deviate from the fixed route for drop off and pick-up. Appointments required for pick-up off their fixed routes. * '''RapidRide''' - operates as bus rapid in the area to serve fewer stops (spaced further apart), along the route on frequent schedules. Routes are identified by a letter (A-H) rather than by numbers. {{listing | name=Sound Transit | alt= | url=https://www.soundtransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-889-6368 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3965367 | lastedit=2023-06-16 | content=Has regional public transit routes including Sounder trains, Link light rail, and express bus in King County (e.g. [[Bellevue]], [[Federal Way]], [[Kent (Washington)|Kent]], [[Renton]], [[Seattle]]), Snohomish County (e.g. [[Everett (Washington)|Everett]], [[Lynnwood]]) and Pierce County (e.g. [[Puyallup]], [[Tacoma]]). }} * '''Link light rail''' operates throughout King County, running every 8-15 minutes from 5AM to 1AM: ** '''The 1 Line''' travels through Seattle north to Lynnwood and south to Angle Lake via [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]]. Construction is underway to extend the line south to Federal Way by 2026. ** '''The 2 Line''' travels from Redmond to South Bellevue via downtown Bellevue. Construction is underway to extend the line into downtown Seattle by 2026. * '''Sounder''' commuter rail service, operating weekday rush hours only, connects Seattle to [[Tacoma]] via Auburn, Kent and Tukwila on the 'S' Line Train and to Everett via Edmonds and Mukilteo on the 'N' Line train. Two separate routes. * Sound Transit has many convenient '''express bus routes''' that travel South (to Tacoma), East (Redmond, Bellevue), and North (Bothell, Lynnwood). Outside of the immediate Seattle-Bellevue area, many routes operate only during weekday rush hours. Check your schedules in advance, and beware of holiday service cutbacks. All Sound Transit routes have route numbers that are in the '''500s'''. ====ORCA Card==== The '''[https://www.myorca.com/ ORCA card]''' is a contactless fare card that enables you to ride and transfer seamlessly across most Puget Sound public transit agencies, including: King County Metro, Sound Transit, Community Transit, Everett Transit, Pierce Transit, Kitsap Transit, and Washington State Ferries. The card is $3, and you must put in a minimum of $5 in your '''e-purse''' to start using it. '''Day passes''' are available for $8 and can be used for all bus and train services. Monthly passes are also available. [https://support.myorca.com/hc/en-us/articles/10285980987277-How-to-request-a-refund You can request a refund of unused e-purse funds]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. ===By car=== All but essential for reaching the outermost suburbs and mountains. In addition to the interstates, major routes include: * [[File:WA-520.svg|25px]] '''SR-520''', linking Seattle's [[Seattle/University District|University District]] to [[Bellevue]] and [[Redmond (Washington)|Redmond]]. * [[File:WA-18.svg|25px]] '''SR-18''', a major freeway from I-5 (Exit 142) in Federal Way to I-90 (Exit 25) in [[Snoqualmie]], east of [[Issaquah]], through Black Diamond, Maple Valley and Covington * [[File:WA-167.svg|25px]] '''SR-167''', from Exit 2 of I-405 in [[Renton]] to [[Puyallup]] via [[Kent_(Washington)|Kent]], [[Auburn_(Washington)|Auburn]] (Jct SR-18), Pacific and Sumner. * [[File:WA-522.svg|25px]] '''SR-522''' branches from I-5 (Exit 171) to US-2 in [[Monroe_(Washington)|Monroe]] via Lake City Way in [[Seattle/North|N Seattle]], [[Bothell]], and [[Woodinville]] (Jct I-405). SR-522 goes around the northern shores of Lake Washington. Traffic congestion is a major problem in the Puget Sound area on all freeways and major roads. Avoid traveling during rush hour if you can, particularly along I-5 and across the Lake Washington bridges. ====Tolls==== There are '''tolls''' for the SR-520 floating bridge and the express lanes of I-405, with rates that vary by time of day and traffic levels. There are no toll booths. If the vehicle has a '''[https://mygoodtogo.com/EN/ "Good to Go" sticker]''' on the windshield, the toll is deducted from a prepaid account. Otherwise, transponders take a picture of the license plates, front and back, and mail the bill to the registered owner. Lake Washington is crossed by another floating bridge, across I-90, that is free. However, making a long detour around the lake will usually waste far more time than you'll save in toll money. ====Orientation==== King County has a somewhat convoluted address system that can be confusing to the uninitiated. From downtown Seattle, the county is divided into 7 compass directional sectors (N, NE, NW, W, E, S, SW; no SE section), with the name of the sector applied to every road that passes through that sector. North-south roads called Avenues that suffix the directional, and east-west roads being Streets that prefix the directional. Streets are written with the sector ''before'' the name (e.g. NE 45th Street or NE 45th) while avenues are written with the sector ''after'' the name (e.g. 45th Avenue NE or 45th NE). Locals often omit the directionals when describing places, but mapping websites and apps require them, and may send you miles out of your way if you don't specify them. Take this into consideration when looking for directions to a specific address. There are occasional irregularities: Ways are long roads that don't always conform to the grid, Drives are long, circuitous routes, and there are the very short Place or Court that dead ends on one end of the road. ==See== The majority of the area's most notable attractions are in [[Seattle]]. Outside of Seattle: * The region's most dramatic '''waterfall''' is Snoqualmie Falls in [[Snoqualmie]]. * The Pacific Bonsai Museum is in [[Federal Way]]. There are also impressive '''botanical gardens''' in [[Bellevue#Do|Bellevue]] and [[Shoreline#Do|Shoreline]]. * [[Burien]], [[Issaquah]], and [[Kirkland]] have thriving and '''walkable main streets'''. ==Do== The best '''hiking''' is along the I-90 corridor, starting in [[Issaquah#Do|Issaquah]] and continuing to [[North Bend (Washington)#Do|North Bend]] and [[Snoqualmie Pass]]; see the [[Mountains to Sound Greenway]] itinerary for more details. There is also excellent hiking along US-2, which enters King County for a short stretch; see the [[North Cascade Loop]] itinerary for more details. '''Water sports''' are popular on Lake Union (rentals in [[Seattle/South Lake Union#Do|South Lake Union]] and [[Seattle/University District#Do|University District]]), Lake Washingon (rentals in [[Kirkland#Do|Kirkland]] and [[Kenmore (Washington)|Kenmore]]), and Lake Sammamish (rentals in Issaquah). See the article for [[Puget Sound#Do|Puget Sound]] for details on getting out on salt water. The largest '''casinos''' are the Muckleshoot Casino near [[Auburn (Washington)|Auburn]] and the [[Snoqualmie#Do|Snoqualmie]] Casino. ==Buy== The '''Pike Place Market''' in [[Seattle/Downtown|Downtown Seattle]] is one of the region's most famous attractions. The largest '''malls''' are Bellevue Square in [[Bellevue#Buy|Bellevue]], Southcenter in [[Tukwila#Buy|Tukwila]], and University Village in [[Seattle/University District#Buy|Seattle's University District]]. ==Eat== [[Seattle#Eat|Seattle]] is the culinary heart of the region, and you can find most of what you're looking for there. Outside of Seattle: * The best '''Chinese''' and '''Indian''' '''cuisine''' are in [[Bellevue#Eat|Bellevue]] and [[Redmond (Washington)#Eat|Redmond]]. * The best '''Korean cuisine''' is in [[Federal Way]]. * The best '''Mexican cuisine''' is in [[White Center#Eat|White Center]]. * Notable '''high-end dining''' destinations can be found in Bellevue, [[Kirkland#Eat|Kirkland]], and [[Woodinville#Eat|Woodinville]] ==Drink== Most of the area's nightlife spots are in [[Seattle#Drink|Seattle]]. [[Renton]] also has a notable bar scene. [[Woodinville]] Wine Country is where '''wineries''' from across Washington State sell and market their wines. (Most of the grapes are grown in Eastern Washington.) Over 130 wineries and tasting rooms have a presence there. ==Go next== * The [[South Sound]], to the south, includes [[Tacoma]], [[Olympia_(Washington)|Olympia]] and [[Mount Rainier National Park]]. * The [[North Sound]], to the north, includes [[Everett_(Washington)|Everett]], [[Mukilteo]], [[Edmonds]], [[Snohomish]] and [[Whidbey Island]]. Further north are [[Anacortes]], [[Bellingham (Washington)|Bellingham]], and [[North Cascades National Park]]. * The [[Kitsap Peninsula]], to the west, includes [[Gig Harbor]], [[Bainbridge Island]], [[Port Orchard]] and [[Bremerton]]. Further west is [[Olympic National Park]]. * The [[North Central Cascades]], to the east, includes [[Ellensburg]], [[Cle Elum]] and [[Leavenworth (Washington)|Leavenworth]]. {{outlineregion}} {{geo|47.47|-121.84|zoom=9}} {{isPartOf|Puget_Sound}} bpk9i7pkzwxwusi944rxtfqbdv500r5 0 17969 5090758 5027381 2025-07-10T12:40:17Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Budget */ 5090758 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.51304 | long=88.40095 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | lastedit=2022-07-27 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.59029 | long=88.41193 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} oe4svs4zgcvsvj9whnafi47xx02aq92 5090760 5090758 2025-07-10T12:42:04Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Budget */ Updated listing for The Kolkata Hotel 5090760 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/107775 | email= | address=3117, Rajdanga Main Rd, Sector E, East Kolkata Twp | lat=22.512431 | long=88.393652 | directions= | phone=+91 12443 30599 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,856 | wikidata=Q111055286 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.51304 | long=88.40095 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | lastedit=2022-07-27 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.59029 | long=88.41193 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} cah2nfayvu4saodd6twb69oqtja6fwr 5090762 5090760 2025-07-10T12:43:35Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Budget */ 5090762 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/107775 | email= | address=3117, Rajdanga Main Rd, Sector E, East Kolkata Twp | lat=22.512431 | long=88.393652 | directions= | phone=+91 12443 30599 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,856 | wikidata=Q111055286 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.51304 | long=88.40095 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | lastedit=2022-07-27 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.59029 | long=88.41193 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} livsm5t3c722tyt2c5y7mv7sapyd31a 5090792 5090762 2025-07-10T13:20:42Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ Added listing for Regenta Orkos Kolkata 5090792 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/107775 | email= | address=3117, Rajdanga Main Rd, Sector E, East Kolkata Twp | lat=22.512431 | long=88.393652 | directions= | phone=+91 12443 30599 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,856 | wikidata=Q111055286 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.51304 | long=88.40095 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | lastedit=2022-07-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Regenta Orkos Kolkata | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.518995 | long=88.389506 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,660-5,000 | wikidata=Q58924198 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.59029 | long=88.41193 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} dcb8k6pwhsiegrbczcwv3cxxoppbgi8 5090794 5090792 2025-07-10T13:21:22Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ 5090794 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/107775 | email= | address=3117, Rajdanga Main Rd, Sector E, East Kolkata Twp | lat=22.512431 | long=88.393652 | directions= | phone=+91 12443 30599 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,856 | wikidata=Q111055286 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Regenta Orkos Kolkata | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.518995 | long=88.389506 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,660-5,000 | wikidata=Q58924198 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.51304 | long=88.40095 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | lastedit=2022-07-27 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.59029 | long=88.41193 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} 00b1638drueraemtr2tguxc2hjgmedj 5090798 5090794 2025-07-10T13:22:20Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ Updated listing for Regenta Orkos Kolkata 5090798 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/107775 | email= | address=3117, Rajdanga Main Rd, Sector E, East Kolkata Twp | lat=22.512431 | long=88.393652 | directions= | phone=+91 12443 30599 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,856 | wikidata=Q111055286 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Regenta Orkos Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.royalorchidhotels.com/regenta-orkos-kolkata/overview | email= | address= | lat=22.518995 | long=88.389506 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7125 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,660-5,000 | wikidata=Q58924198 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.51304 | long=88.40095 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | lastedit=2022-07-27 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.59029 | long=88.41193 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} mso8j8i9dyvj84oasnbyvzirse8cox9 5090807 5090798 2025-07-10T13:30:20Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ Updated listing for Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass 5090807 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/107775 | email= | address=3117, Rajdanga Main Rd, Sector E, East Kolkata Twp | lat=22.512431 | long=88.393652 | directions= | phone=+91 12443 30599 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,856 | wikidata=Q111055286 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Regenta Orkos Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.royalorchidhotels.com/regenta-orkos-kolkata/overview | email= | address= | lat=22.518995 | long=88.389506 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7125 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,660-5,000 | wikidata=Q58924198 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.514 | long=88.39817 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | wikidata=Q111402422 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.59029 | long=88.41193 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} 42ev3akd5p5c92xvnhwj52mdyi7shkb 5090823 5090807 2025-07-10T13:39:35Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for Golden Tulip Salt Lake City Kolkata 5090823 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/107775 | email= | address=3117, Rajdanga Main Rd, Sector E, East Kolkata Twp | lat=22.512431 | long=88.393652 | directions= | phone=+91 12443 30599 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,856 | wikidata=Q111055286 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Regenta Orkos Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.royalorchidhotels.com/regenta-orkos-kolkata/overview | email= | address= | lat=22.518995 | long=88.389506 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7125 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,660-5,000 | wikidata=Q58924198 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.514 | long=88.39817 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | wikidata=Q111402422 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip Salt Lake City Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.590393 | long=88.412033 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,620-4,250 | wikidata=Q111402423 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} edihli3m4ed0jc68jz0u3sn56qnrkv2 5090828 5090823 2025-07-10T13:40:37Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Sleep */ 5090828 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/107775 | email= | address=3117, Rajdanga Main Rd, Sector E, East Kolkata Twp | lat=22.512431 | long=88.393652 | directions= | phone=+91 12443 30599 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,856 | wikidata=Q111055286 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip Salt Lake City Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.590393 | long=88.412033 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,620-4,250 | wikidata=Q111402423 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Regenta Orkos Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.royalorchidhotels.com/regenta-orkos-kolkata/overview | email= | address= | lat=22.518995 | long=88.389506 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7125 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,660-5,000 | wikidata=Q58924198 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.514 | long=88.39817 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | wikidata=Q111402422 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} p39wx329c5ckhduh11szp95t68dkqd9 5090842 5090828 2025-07-10T13:50:12Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ 5090842 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/107775 | email= | address=3117, Rajdanga Main Rd, Sector E, East Kolkata Twp | lat=22.512431 | long=88.393652 | directions= | phone=+91 12443 30599 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,856 | wikidata=Q111055286 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip Salt Lake City Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.590393 | long=88.412033 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,620-4,250 | wikidata=Q111402423 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Regenta Orkos Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.royalorchidhotels.com/regenta-orkos-kolkata/overview | email= | address= | lat=22.518995 | long=88.389506 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7125 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,660-5,000 | wikidata=Q58924198 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Senses Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.514 | long=88.39817 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | wikidata=Q111402422 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} polibw32jyfba4dmsyf38bp62sofv49 5090844 5090842 2025-07-10T13:51:47Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ Updated listing for Senses Hotel 5090844 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/107775 | email= | address=3117, Rajdanga Main Rd, Sector E, East Kolkata Twp | lat=22.512431 | long=88.393652 | directions= | phone=+91 12443 30599 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,856 | wikidata=Q111055286 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip Salt Lake City Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.590393 | long=88.412033 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,620-4,250 | wikidata=Q111402423 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Regenta Orkos Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.royalorchidhotels.com/regenta-orkos-kolkata/overview | email= | address= | lat=22.518995 | long=88.389506 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7125 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,660-5,000 | wikidata=Q58924198 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Senses Hotel | alt= | url=http://senseshotel.in | email= | address=DN-26, Street Number 11, DN Block, Sector V | lat=22.575865 | long=88.434275 | directions= | phone=+91 85848 45005 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,350-5,150 | wikidata=Q111402424 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.514 | long=88.39817 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | wikidata=Q111402422 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} 47j4qhb9j21g4ix3d4r9p0ci658xafy 5090849 5090844 2025-07-10T13:57:04Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ 5090849 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/107775 | email= | address=3117, Rajdanga Main Rd, Sector E, East Kolkata Twp | lat=22.512431 | long=88.393652 | directions= | phone=+91 12443 30599 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,856 | wikidata=Q111055286 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip Salt Lake City Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.590393 | long=88.412033 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,620-4,250 | wikidata=Q111402423 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Regenta Orkos Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.royalorchidhotels.com/regenta-orkos-kolkata/overview | email= | address= | lat=22.518995 | long=88.389506 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7125 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,660-5,000 | wikidata=Q58924198 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Senses Hotel | alt= | url=http://senseshotel.in | email= | address=DN-26, Street Number 11, DN Block, Sector V | lat=22.575865 | long=88.434275 | directions= | phone=+91 85848 45005 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,350-5,150 | wikidata=Q111402424 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Visitel - A Boutique Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111861623 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.514 | long=88.39817 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | wikidata=Q111402422 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} bgd02w1djkdcxxdpqmd41fz9c8xalj5 5090851 5090849 2025-07-10T13:58:29Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ Updated listing for Visitel - A Boutique Hotel 5090851 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Science City - Kolkata 2014-09-02 6317-6324 pagebanner.JPG|alt=Science City|pgname=East Kolkata}} '''East Kolkata''' (পূর্ব কলকাতা ''Pūrba Kalkātā'') consists of the new growth areas on the eastern side of [[Kolkata]]. It includes IT offices, shopping emporiums and amusement parks. Luxury hotels, convention centres, speciality hospitals, condominium complexes, malls and multiplexes have come up at a rapid pace. These expansions are spearheaded by the formation of [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] and the extension of Sector V. Science City is a major attraction. Salt Lake Stadium is a major occasional crowd puller. Large number of hospitals attract patients from the metropolis and beyond. ==Understand== [[File:EM Bypass Kolkata.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Buildings along EM Bypass]] East Kolkata covers Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass, or simply the Bypass), Garia, Kasba, Patuli, Salt Lake, and Tangra (New Chinatown). [[Kolkata/New Town|New Town]] is covered as a separate district. ===Eastern Metropolitan Bypass=== '''Eastern Metropolitan Bypass''' (ইস্টার্ন মেট্রোপলিটান বাইপাস ''Isṭārn Meṭropaliṭān Bāipās''), also known as '''EM Bypass''', or simply the '''Bypass''', is the arterial road of East Kolkata. It runs north-south, from Ultadanga to [[Baruipur]], and is dotted with major hotels, hospitals, business parks, residential blocks, and other high-end construction and development. The metro line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs across the Bypass, and hence it is locally called '''Bypass Metro'''. ===Patuli=== ===Salt Lake=== [[File:Kolkata Aerial view Salt Lake Stadium view 1.jpg|thumb|Salt Lake Stadium]] '''Salt Lake''' (সল্টলেক ''Salṭlek''), also called '''Bidhannagar''' (বিধাননগর ''Bidhānnagar''), was developed between 1958 and 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning population of Kolkata. Over the years, the township has become an IT hub of Kolkata and companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have their offices in Salt Lake. There are also several government office buildings lining the '''Central Park''', which is part of an effort to decongest Kolkata. Salt Lake is divided into five sectors I to V, each are further divided into blocks. Navigating the locations in sectors I to III are intimidating without online map service, as the street layouts are about the same. Each block has a market and a park for residents. Sector V is notable for hosting numerous government and IT offices. ===Tangra=== [[File:Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Tangra, Kolkata, India.png|thumb|Chinese New Year celebration in Tangra]] '''Tangra''' is one of the two Chinatowns in India, the other being [[Kolkata/North|Tiretta Bazar]]. The locality was once home to 20,000 ethnic Chinese, now the population has dropped to 2,000 or so. The traditional occupation of the Chinese community here had been working in the nearby tanning industry and Chinese restaurants. The area is still noted for the Chinese restaurants where many people flock to taste traditional Chinese and Indian Chinese food. Historically there were many opium dens in this area, which is illegal nowadays. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.538|88.41|zoom=13|width=420|height=840|name=Map of East Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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[[File:Kolkata Aerial view near Airport 095603.jpg|thumb|Central Park]] The district is extensive and still developing. Cycle rickshaws are available for short trips wherever there is a regular demand for them. Point-to-point auto-rickshaw services are there but are not as extensive or frequent as in some other parts of the metropolis. ===By bus=== There are various bus stops in East Kolkata, with the major being {{marker|type=go|name=International Bus Terminus|lat=22.5852|long=88.4208}} (Karunamoyee, Sector-III, Salt Lake). International bus services, including bus services to [[Dhaka]], also operate from Karunamoyee. ===By metro=== East Kolkata is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}}, {{rint|kolkata|2}}, and {{rint|kolkata|6}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful for travelling between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V, while Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful for getting here from the South at Kavi Subhash (New Garia). Line {{rint|kolkata|6}} runs between Kavi Subhash (New Garia) and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby), and is expected to connect Salt Lake Sector V as well, making the journey across EM Bypass seamless. ===By train=== East Kolkata can be reached by local trains, with stops at Bidhannagar Road, Sir Gurudas Banerjee Halt, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Dhakuria, Jadavpur, Baghajatin and New Garia. ==See== * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Banabitan (বনবিতান) | url= | email= | address=Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.586694 | long=88.414861 | directions={{station|Central Park|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5061595 | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=A large hexagonal urban space in Salt Lake and a favorite hangout spot for lovers. The park is built around an expansive water body. There is a bridge which connects on side of the lake to an island which has a pagoda. The lake serves as a haven for water birds. There are also boating facilities in a cordoned off section of the lake near the rose garden. }} * {{see | name=Subhas Sarobar | alt=সুভাষ সরোবর | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.56831 | long=88.40093 | directions=metro: {{station|Phoolbagan|city=kolkata|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68030125 | lastedit=2022-08-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Swabhumi Heritage Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Phoolbagan | lat=22.5712 | long=88.4019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here one can sample local arts and crafts as well as some of the food from its various stalls. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Boat Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ambedkar Bhawan, Cultural Research Institute, Kankurgachi | lat=22.581878 | long=88.390821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56682439 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A museum dedicated to the history of boats in Bengal. The building also contains Puppet Museum, Kantha Museum, and a collection of tribal artefacts. It houses 46 wooden replicas of boats that depicts Bengal's boat heritage. The cargo boats of the [[Sundarbans]], coastal fishing boats, and popular flat-bottomed boats of North Bengal to all-purpose dinghies have been featured here. It also exhibits a replica of Rabindranath Tagore's Padma boat and a replica of a boat from the [[Mohenjo-daro]] era. }} * {{see | name=National Council of Science Musums | alt=NCSM | url=http://www.ncsm.org.in | email= | address=GN 33, Street 27, Sector V | lat=22.57 | long=88.428611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6971929 | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=The parent organisation respnsible for science and technology museums across India. Its headquarters itself hosts several exhibitions for visitors, like Rabindranather Bigyan Bhabna (Tagore's philosophy on science) and Portable Fun Science Exhibition. }} * {{see | name=Science City | alt= | url= | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave, Parama Island | lat= | long= | directions=Science City {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price= | wikidata=Q7433497 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=It is one of the most spectacular science centres in India. The size of the Science City baffles first-time visitors. It features a lot of interactive science and live bioscience exhibits, as well as having Kolkata's first OMNIMAX theatre. It consists of Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Science Exploration Hall and Space Odyssey. }} * {{see | name=Vadya Vithika | alt= | url= | email= | address=IB 201, IA Block, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.57349 | long=88.41312 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 6796 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–5PM (closed on Sa, Su) | price=Free | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Run by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, the museum has more than 450 instruments, of which about 265 are on display in two big rooms. }} ==Do== [[File:Nicco Park Salt lake.jpg|thumb|Nicco Park]] * {{do | name=Benuban Chhaya | alt=বেণুবন ছায়া ''Beṇuban Chāẏā'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.4761 | long=88.3894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹10 per person | wikidata=Q19882287 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=A public park built around a lake and has a tree lined path flanked by lakes on either side. The park is a peaceful destination to spend time with family and friends. You can also take a boat ride and visit a tram restaurant inside the park. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা মেলা প্রাঙ্গণ | url=https://wbtpo.in/ | email= | address=JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.545023 | long=88.394198 | directions=Milan Mela {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15720491 | lastedit=2023-01-31 | content=Previously known as Milan Mela, it is a permanent trade fair complex. Fairs of different kinds are held at regular intervals. }} * {{do | name=Boimela Prangon | alt=বইমেলা প্রাঙ্গণ ''Baimelā Prāṅgan'' | url=http://www.kolkatabookfaironline.com | email= | address=3rd Ave Sector III | lat=22.588982 | long=88.418936 | directions=metro: {{station|Karunamoyee|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content=Site of the annual '''Kolkata Book Fair''' that takes place from the last week of January to the first week of February. It is the largest book fair in Asia and is a significant event in the city. }} * {{do | name=Captain Bhery Park | alt=Eco & Aquatic Hub | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55267 | long=88.40961 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Captain Bheri Eco and Aquatic Hub - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-09-26 8043.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=Captain Bhery is one of the remnants of the vast series of wetlands east of Kolkata before the establishment of the Salt Lake township. }} * {{do | name= Kishore Bharati Krirangan | alt=কিশোরভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন | url= | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.4942 | long=88.3945 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15238600 | lastedit=2022-12-11 | content=Commonly known as Jadavpur Stadium or Santoshpur Stadium, it is a 13-acre sports complex. It has a stadium that can accommodate 12,000 spectators and hosts lower division matches of the Kolkata Football League. It has a swimming pool with training facilities for children. }} * {{do | name=Nalban Boating Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.5683 | long=88.4193 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2357 2888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=Nalban (নলবন), as the name suggests, is mainly lakes and creeks (নল ''nal'') fringed by groves (বন ''ban''). Part of the [[Ramsar site]] East Calcutta Wetlands, it is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. }} * {{do | name=Nicco Park | alt=নিকো পার্ক | url=http://www.niccoparks.com | email= | address=Sector IV, Salt Lake | lat=22.571183 | long=88.421608 | directions=Nicco Park {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 6628 5549, +91 33 6628 5509 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7024551 | lastedit=2022-12-10 | content=It is the [[Disneyland]] of West Bengal with its various adventure rides. Opened in 1991, Nicco Park is one of the biggest amusement parks in the country and has innovative entertainment for all age groups. This amusement park offers fun for children as well as adults and draws crowds from Kolkata, especially on the weekends. A decommissioned MiG-21 bomber is on display here. }} * {{do | name=Salt Lake Stadium | alt=Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (বিবেকানন্দ যুবভারতী ক্রীড়াঙ্গন) | url= | email= | address=JB Block, Sector III, Salt Lake | lat=22.568889 | long=88.409167 | directions={{station|Salt Lake Stadium|city=kolkata|green}}{{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q787124 | lastedit=2022-08-31 | content=A major occasional crowd puller, the stadium has the second largest non-auto racing capacity in the world and the largest in the [[South Asia|Indian subcontinent]]. It is used for association football matches and athletics. The stadium was built in 1984 and holds 120,000 in a three-tier configuration. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=VIP Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Picnic Garden Rd, Tiljala | lat=22.52536 | long=88.395288 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Malls=== * {{buy | name=Acropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.acropolismall.in/ | email= | address=1858/1, Rajdanga Main Rd | lat=22.51513 | long=88.39324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The main shopping centre of Kasba. Has Chilli's, Cinepolis, Hoppipola, Ozora, and Spencer's. }} * {{buy | name=Apsara Shopping Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.50415 | long=88.39986 | directions=at the crossing of EM Bypass and Prince Anwar Shah Rd Connector | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charnock City | alt= | url= | email= | address=KB-26, Sector-III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5674 | long=88.4114 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1349 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre | alt= | url=http://saltlake.citycentremalls.in/ | email= | address=3rd Avenue, DC Block | lat=22.5879 | long=88.4079 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23581011 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants and bars include Afraa Lounge, KFC (1F, Block A), Pizza Hut (1F, Block A), Afraa Restaurant (7F, Block G), Caught n Bowled (4F, Block B), Copper Chimney (3F, Block C), Haka (2F, Block E) and Kaafila (3F, Block B). }} * {{buy | name=Hiland Park Metropolis Mall | alt= | url=http://www.hiland.in/ | email= | address=Santoshpur | lat=22.48327 | long=88.38843 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2436 8705 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Has a ten-outlet eatery. }} * {{buy | name=Mani Square | alt= | url=http://www.manisquaremall.com | email= | address=164/1, Maniktala Main Rd (off EM Bypass) | lat=22.5779 | long=88.4012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6749413 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=Restaurants include KFC (3F), McDonald's (GF), Flame & Grill (4F), Haka (4F), Khandani Rajdhani Restaurant (4F), Machan (4F), Mio Amore (4F), The Shack (4F) and Square 4o5. }} * {{buy | name=Orchid Point | alt= | url= | email= | address=3/1A, UC Banerjee Rd, Kankurgachi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It houses most major brands. }} * {{buy | name=Patuli Floating Market | alt=ভাসমান বাজার ''Bhāsamān Bājār'' | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.47016 | long=88.39008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-28 | content=Opened in 2018, it is the first artificial floating market in India with 280 shops housing on 114 boats. }} * {{buy | name=Silver Spring Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass | lat=22.5489 | long= 88.4004| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Restaurants include Mainland China (3F), Masque (3F), Oh! Calcutta (3F) and Sigree (1F). }} * {{buy | name=Upohar Town Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upohar Housing Complex, New Garia | lat=22.4753 | long=88.4009 | directions=local: {{station|New Garia|sealdah south}}, metro: {{station|Kavi Subhas|blue|orange}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Spencer's and other outlets. }} ==Eat and drink== Major restaurant chains include '''Haldiram's''' (P420, VIP Road, Kaikhali). * {{eat | name=Absolute Barbecues | alt=AB's | url=https://www.absolutebarbecues.com/best-bbq-grill-restaurant-near-me/kolkata/saltlake | email= | address=1F, OMEGA, GP Block, Sector V | lat=22.56999 | long=88.43298 | directions= | phone=+91 73373 83770 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹800–1,000 per head | image=অ্যাবসলিউট বারবিকিউ কলকাতা.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Byepass Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55273 | long=88.40614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Noon-1AM | price= | image=Byepass Dhaba - Metropolitan - Eastern Metropolitan Bypass - Kolkata 2016-08-25 6272.JPG | lastedit=2022-09-01 | content=North Indian. }} * {{eat | name=Calcutta Art Café | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB33, Shantipally | lat=22.51576 | long=88.39630 | directions=opposite Delhi Public School Ruby Park Sr | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for its lavish interior with chequered floors, bricked walls and stained-glass hurricane lamps (হ্যারিকেন ''hyāriken''). It blends modernity with vintage. }} * {{eat | name=Charnock's | alt= | url=https://www.charnockcity.com/charnocks/ | email= | address=9F, KB 26, Sector III | lat=22.5674 | long=88.41141 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23351349, +91 9051325905 | tollfree= | hours=noon&ndash;11PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content=Continental, Bengali, North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{Eat | name=Mishra's Bar & Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.mishrasindia.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bar with good food arrangements. North Indian, South Indian, Continental, Chinese cuisine. }} ** {{Eat | name=DG 1, Sector-II, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 4009191, +91 33 4009195 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-11PM | price= | content= }} ** {{Eat | name=IB-157, Sector-III, Salt Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57041 | long=88.4153 | directions=Near Tank 14 | phone=+91 33 40669178 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Tangra=== * {{eat | name=Beijing Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=77/1, Christopher Rd, Tangra | lat=22.54651 | long=88.38707 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23281011, +91 33 23283998 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Big Boss | alt= | url= | email= | address=54C Matheswartala Rd | lat=22.54674 | long=88.38833 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23282405, +91 33 23290777 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=China Town | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tangra | lat=22.54968 | long=88.39177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content=Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Golden Joy | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/1, Matherswar Tala Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Gobinda Khatick Post Office | phone=+91 33 65350880, +91 9051870888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Kafulok | alt= | url= | email= | address=47, Govinda Khatick Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23291953, +91 33 23282288 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Kim Ling | alt= | url= | email= | address=13, South Tangra Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 23298923, +91 33 28650996 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=50/2, Matheswartala Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830968711, +91 33 23299540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alcove Guest House & Service Apartment | alt= | url=http://www.alcove.co.in/ | email=stay@alcove.co.in | address=Block DL-39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5837 | long=88.4255 | directions= | phone=+91 89510 89510 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,250 for serviced room | content=All rooms with air-conditioning, TV and private bathroom. Breakfast complimentary, free Wi-Fi access. They also have guest houses at other locations in Bidhannagar and Kolkata. }} * {{sleep | name=Apanjan | alt= | url= | email= | address=3 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830016645, +91 9836198199 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Around ₹200 per day/ non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Aquatic Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=NP 222, Sector V, Bidhannagar | lat= 22.5807 | long=88.4379 | directions= | phone=+91 33 44502716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Arunadoy Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=173/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.4926 | long=88.4024 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24260842, +91 9831284083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹250 per non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ashirbad Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=264 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat=22.49378 | long=88.40093 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2426 4048, +91 9477402644, +91 9477402645 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300 per double-bedded room, ₹350 per triple-bedded room, all non-AC rooms | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Atithi | alt= | url= | email= | address=7 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9830380049 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹250-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bina Bhawan | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98311248611, +91 987407250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹300-350 per double-bedded non-AC room | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Debi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175 Barakhola Mukundapur | lat=22.49276 | long=88.40239 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264817, +91 9831687537, +91 9831923007 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Eastern View Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=185/9 Santoshpur Ave | lat= | long= | directions=nr Jora Bridge | phone=+91 33 2416-9396 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | content=1-star with six rooms. Amenities include cable TV. Government approved. }} * {{sleep | name=The Kolkata Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/107775 | email= | address=3117, Rajdanga Main Rd, Sector E, East Kolkata Twp | lat=22.512431 | long=88.393652 | directions= | phone=+91 12443 30599 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,856 | wikidata=Q111055286 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maa Tara Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=175/1 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9831203612, +91 9903803612, +91 9007304467| tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400-500 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Maity Villa | alt= | url= | email= | address= 27 Sonali Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-500 double-bedded non-AC room; ₹800-1200 for double-bedded AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Meghalaya Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=138 Barakhola, Mukundapur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32986868 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300 per double-bedded non-AC room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=NRI Residency | alt= | url=http://www.NRIResidency.com | email=info@NRIResidency.com | address=CIT Rd, Kankurgachi | lat=22.5779 | long=88.3905 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,050-1,200 | content=Offers guesthouse-style accommodation with clean and large AC rooms with Western-style private bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Ricko | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9836955183 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹300-600 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Shib Bandhalay| alt= | url= | email= | address=21 Shanti Park, Panchasayar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹400 per double-bedded non-AC room| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Step In | alt= | url= | email= | address=G6 Tagore, Ruby Park, Kasba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 66037838 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sun & Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=GC 35, Sector III, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5797 | long=88.4134 | directions= | phone=+91 33 66245815 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Uttam Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.uttamguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=1563 Mukundapur Rd | lat=22.49178 | long=88.40224 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24264287, +91 9830057482 | tollfree= | checkin=9AM | checkout=9AM | price=₹500-₹600 per double-bedded non-AC room, ₹800-₹900 per double-bedded AC room | lastedit=2022-07-18 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Golden Tulip Salt Lake City Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.goldentulipsaltlakekolkata.com/ | email= | address=2nd Cross Rd, DD-19, 3rd Ave, Sector I | lat=22.590393 | long=88.412033 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7123-2425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,620-4,250 | wikidata=Q111402423 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Duhita Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.duhita.com/ | email=manager@duhita.com | address=AA 39, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59129 | long=88.39897 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2337-5332 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating from 1987. }} * {{sleep | name=Harry Guest House | alt= | url= | email=harryguest@gmail.com | address=AE 329, Bidhannagar | lat=22.59846 | long=88.41102 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5096 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=Operating since 1992, it is a fully air-conditioned guest house. }} * {{sleep | name=Monotel | alt= | url=http://www.monotel.com/ | email= | address=DM-2, Sector-V, Salt Lake | lat=22.5781 | long=88.4277 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4030-2000 | tollfree= | checkin=Noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹3000-5000 | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Next Generation Guest House | alt= | url=http://nextgenguesthouse.in/ | email=nextgencareer@gmail.com | address=Plot No 255, AD Block, Sector-I, Bidhannagar | lat=22.5954 | long=88.4054 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2321 5536 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Regenta Orkos Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.royalorchidhotels.com/regenta-orkos-kolkata/overview | email= | address= | lat=22.518995 | long=88.389506 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7125 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,660-5,000 | wikidata=Q58924198 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Senses Hotel | alt= | url=http://senseshotel.in | email= | address=DN-26, Street Number 11, DN Block, Sector V | lat=22.575865 | long=88.434275 | directions= | phone=+91 85848 45005 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,350-5,150 | wikidata=Q111402424 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Tiger Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1686 Lashkrhat, Tagore Park (Block -1) Naskar Hat, Kasba | lat=22.5201 | long=88.3979 | directions=off EM Bypass | phone=+91 33 2345 2433 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Udayachal Tourism Property | alt= | url= | email=udayachaltl@gmail.com | address=DG Block, Sector II | lat=22.59067 | long=88.42085 | directions=adjacent to the office of West Bengal Tourism | phone=+91 9874026899 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900&ndash;2,600 per room | lastedit=2023-07-04 | content=Run by West Bengal Tourism. It features colour television, laundry, restaurant, room and Wi-Fi services. }} * {{sleep | name=Visitel - A Boutique Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/5466 | email= | address=78, Canal Circular Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 12462 01612 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹2,350-6,680 | wikidata=Q111861623 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Kolkata EM Bypass | alt= | url= | email= | address=1930, Rash Behari Ave Connector | lat=22.514 | long=88.39817 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 0000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4490-5600 | wikidata=Q111402422 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Exterior Dusk with Pond.jpg|thumb|ITC Royal Bengal at twilight]] * {{sleep | name=ITC Royal Bengal | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.916389 | long=88.665278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64859473 | lastedit=2024-12-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Sonar Kolkata | alt= | url=http://itc-sonar-kolkata.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl | email= | address=1, JBS Haldane Ave | lat=22.544557 | long=88.395439 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2345 4545 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2345 4455 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q108541451 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ccujw-jw-marriott-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=4A, EM Bypass, Tangra | lat=22.548225 | long=88.398825 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6633-0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹26,550 | wikidata=Q65658567 | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Pearl Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=http://www.thepearlhotels.com/ | email= | address=35Z, EM Bypass, Beleghata | lat=22.56903 | long=88.40442 | directions=opposite Salt Lake Stadium | phone=+91 33 4000-2883 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel The Sojourn | alt= | url=https://www.hotelthesojourn.com/ | email=info@hotelthesojourn.com | address=Plot KB 23, Sector III | lat=22.5668 | long=88.4113 | directions=Beside of Salt Lake Stadium opposite Gate No 4 | phone=+91 33-2335-1462 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3450-4400 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hyatt Regency | alt= | url=http://kolkata.regency.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=EM Bypass, JA-1, Sector III | lat=22.56975 | long=88.40488 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 1234 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2335 1235 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q16892566 | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indismart Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.indismart.in/ | email=info@indismartgroup.com | address=International Tower X-1,8/3 Block EP, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Sector V | lat=22.57173 | long=88.433963 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2357 7550-59, +91 33 4010 1350 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2357 7735 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64880169 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Sonnet | alt= | url=http://www.thesonnet.in/ | email=reservations.kol@thesonnet.com | address=Block DD, Plot No. 8, Sector I | lat=22.5896 | long=88.4115 | directions= | phone=+91 33-66339000 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33-66339001 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Stadel | alt= | url=http://www.thestadel.com/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Salt Lake Stadium, Sector III | lat=22.569 | long=88.411 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2335 7220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Stadel.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-30 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar East Police Station | address=Canal Side Rd, AL Block, Sector-II | lat=22.58736 | long=88.43338 | phone=+91 33 23590849 }} * {{listing | name=Bidhannagar South Police Station | address=JC Block, Sector-III | lat=22.57035 | long=88.41333 | phone=+91 33 23351047 }} * {{listing | name=Patuli Police Station | lat=22.47118 | long=88.38878 | phone=+91 33 24625195 }} * {{listing | name=Purba Jadavpur Police Station | address=Mukundapur | lat=22.49163 | long=88.40062 | phone=+91 33 24267345 }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.5583|88.4193|zoom=12}} 1rwm230an4amlvnm3yzaw7nah2muw7d 0 17974 5090802 5063103 2025-07-10T13:24:13Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Budget */ 5090802 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Rashbehari avenue and SP Mukherjee road crossing(Kolkata) (cropped).jpg|pgname=South Kolkata}} [[File:Alipore_Zoological_Garden_-_Kolkata_2011-05-03_2548.JPG|thumb|Entrance of Alipore Zoo]] [[File:Kalighat_temple_with_bazzar.JPG|thumb|Kalighat Temple]] '''South Kolkata''' (দক্ষিণ কলকাতা ''Dakṣiṇ Kalkātā'') is a posh and new area of [[Kolkata]]. It is less congested and more modern than most parts of the city. You will find more flat blocks and green patches here compared to the North. ==Understand== This district covers the neighbourhoods south of Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Road (AJC Bose Road, previously Lower Circular Road), west of Sealdah South lines, and north of the [[Kolkata/Southern Suburbs|Southern Suburbs]]. The major neighbourhoods in South Kolkata include Alipore, Ballygunge, Bhowanipore, Chetla,Dhakuria, Gariahat, Kalighat, Kidderpore, Majerhat, Park Circus, and Taratala. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.5265|88.346|height=520|width=620|zoom=14|name=Map of South Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} {{Mapmask|22.5159,88.3717|22.5293,88.3729|22.5294,88.3737|22.5292,88.3747|22.5295,88.3748|22.5302,88.3747|22.5313,88.3748|22.5330,88.3749|22.5331,88.3748|22.5333,88.3746|22.5334,88.3745|22.5339,88.3745|22.5343,88.3744|22.5344,88.3746|22.5344,88.3747|22.5345,88.3748|22.5345,88.3749|22.5344,88.3758|22.5347,88.3761|22.5347,88.3763|22.5344,88.3764|22.5342,88.3766|22.5340,88.3767|22.5339,88.3770|22.5336,88.3770|22.5335,88.3771|22.5335,88.3773|22.5333,88.3786|22.5334,88.3787|22.5334,88.3790|22.5334,88.3792|22.5336,88.3796|22.5341,88.3799|22.5342,88.3799|22.5350,88.3797|22.5351,88.3797|22.5356,88.3799|22.5360,88.3800|22.5374,88.3795|22.5379,88.3794|22.5380,88.3793|22.5382,88.3789|22.5384,88.3785|22.5385,88.3785|22.5392,88.3787|22.5391,88.3776|22.5392,88.3760|22.5390,88.3752|22.5391,88.3737|22.5513,88.3750|22.5513,88.3749|22.5514,88.3746|22.5515,88.3743|22.5516,88.3741|22.5517,88.3734|22.5517,88.3732|22.5518,88.3724|22.5520,88.3724|22.5521,88.3720|22.5523,88.3715|22.5513,88.3712|22.5449,88.3705|22.5434,88.3665|22.5433,88.3665|22.5432,88.3665|22.5431,88.3665|22.5430,88.3664|22.5430,88.3663|22.5429,88.3662|22.5429,88.3661|22.5430,88.3660|22.5430,88.3659|22.5431,88.3658|22.5432,88.3658|22.5434,88.3658|22.5434,88.3658|22.5435,88.3658|22.5467,88.3614|22.5410,88.3593|22.5416,88.3473|22.5417,88.3459|22.5415,88.3435|22.5399,88.3370|22.5399,88.3365|22.5400,88.3361|22.5407,88.3347|22.5392,88.3338|22.5394,88.3336|22.5396,88.3334|22.5398,88.3331|22.5404,88.3328|22.5407,88.3325|22.5409,88.3323|22.5411,88.3320|22.5412,88.3316|22.5412,88.3311|22.5412,88.3307|22.5412,88.3302|22.5412,88.3298|22.5412,88.3294|22.5414,88.3291|22.5422,88.3281|22.5442,88.3267|22.5461,88.3257|22.5467,88.3250|22.5470,88.3248|22.5473,88.3246|22.5477,88.3245|22.5479,88.3245|22.5481,88.3246|22.5488,88.3250|22.5491,88.3251|22.5494,88.3251|22.5500,88.3250|22.5503,88.3249|22.5534,88.3223|22.5508,88.3187|22.5497,88.3130|22.5493,88.3085|22.5495,88.3047|22.5521,88.2957|22.5522,88.2937|22.5526,88.2911|22.5482,88.2892|22.5480,88.2905|22.5470,88.2927|22.5463,88.2944|22.5461,88.2945|22.5458,88.2946|22.5454,88.2946|22.5445,88.2945|22.5439,88.2945|22.5438,88.2945|22.5436,88.2946|22.5435,88.2939|22.5435,88.2938|22.5435,88.2937|22.5433,88.2935|22.5433,88.2934|22.5430,88.2933|22.5429,88.2932|22.5429,88.2932|22.5429,88.2929|22.5429,88.2926|22.5430,88.2923|22.5431,88.2918|22.5432,88.2915|22.5432,88.2915|22.5435,88.2913|22.5435,88.2912|22.5437,88.2905|22.5436,88.2905|22.5435,88.2904|22.5435,88.2903|22.5435,88.2900|22.5432,88.2900|22.5428,88.2901|22.5427,88.2905|22.5411,88.2907|22.5408,88.2908|22.5405,88.2910|22.5403,88.2919|22.5399,88.2919|22.5387,88.2916|22.5386,88.2933|22.5320,88.2916|22.5312,88.2915|22.5238,88.2911|22.5225,88.2912|22.5215,88.2915|22.5205,88.2918|22.5199,88.2921|22.5173,88.2915|22.5163,88.2923|22.5166,88.2930|22.5168,88.2938|22.5169,88.2945|22.5171,88.2970|22.5172,88.2976|22.5173,88.2979|22.5170,88.2987|22.5169,88.2991|22.5150,88.3007|22.5142,88.3016|22.5141,88.3028|22.5138,88.3042|22.5131,88.3057|22.5122,88.3079|22.5120,88.3077|22.5118,88.3077|22.5118,88.3079|22.5118,88.3079|22.5118,88.3080|22.5117,88.3085|22.5115,88.3092|22.5106,88.3139|22.5105,88.3143|22.5105,88.3148|22.5104,88.3151|22.5104,88.3152|22.5104,88.3153|22.5104,88.3157|22.5104,88.3159|22.5102,88.3166|22.5099,88.3180|22.5098,88.3182|22.5091,88.3209|22.5132,88.3224|22.5184,88.3237|22.5103,88.3359|22.5098,88.3367|22.5094,88.3378|22.5092,88.3387|22.5097,88.3422|22.5095,88.3434|22.5083,88.3457|22.5080,88.3463|22.5079,88.3468|22.5077,88.3484|22.5077,88.3500|22.5078,88.3509|22.5102,88.3657|22.5104,88.3666|22.5107,88.3675|22.5113,88.3685|22.5121,88.3695|22.5129,88.3702|22.5135,88.3707|22.5145,88.3712|22.5159,88.3717}} South Kolkata can be easily reached from Central Kolkata easily by bus, taxi or metro railway. The number of buses is slightly low from the North, but the metro and tram are always available. There also are bus and metro links from further east and south. ===By bus=== Like other parts of the city, buses have the most extensive coverage, and is inexpensive. ===By metro=== South Kolkata is mainly served by metro line {{rint|kolkata|1}}, which runs across Ashutosh Mukherjee Road and SP Mukherjee Road. This is useful to get in here from northern and southeastern parts of the city, though you have to take a car, bus, or rickshaw to get to places like Ballygunge and Dhakuria. Line {{rint|kolkata|3}} begins from Majerhat and runs across Diamond Harbour Road, in the [[Kolkata/Southern Suburbs|Southern Suburbs]]. ===By train=== {{rint|kolkata|circular}} runs across this district, from Ballygunge to Khiddirpur, which is useful to get here from northern parts of the city. There are also two junction stations for local trains, both of which are useful for people from the [[Kolkata/Southern Suburbs|Southern Suburbs]] or [[South 24 Parganas]]. * {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Ballygunge|circular|sealdah south}}|wikidata=Q55639257}} * {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Majerhat|3|circular|sealdah south}}|wikidata=Q20718005}} ==See== [[File:Belvedere Building - Indian National Library - Belvedere Estate - Kolkata 2014-05-02 4742.JPG|thumb|National Library of India]] [[File:Rabindra Sarovar view.jpg|thumb|Rabindra Sarobar]] * {{see | name=Alipore Zoo | alt=আলিপুর চিড়িয়াখানা ''Ālipur Ciṛiẏākhānā'' | url=http://www.kolkatazoo.in/ | email=director@kolkatazoo.in | address=No.2 Alipore Rd, Alipore | lat=22.535913 | long=88.332053 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2479 1150 | tollfree= | hours=F–W 9AM–5PM, aquarium 10:30AM–5PM | price=Zoo ₹20, aquarium ₹5, video photography ₹250 per hour | wikidata=Q3346440 | lastedit=2023-04-14 | content=One of the most famous zoological gardens in Eastern India. It was once notorious for its cross-breeding experiments between lions and tigers to produce strains like ''tigons'', ''ligers'' and ''litigons''. It was home to Advaita, the longest-lived animal in the world, who died in March 2006. The other success story of the zoo was a live birth of the rare Sumatran rhinoceros in 1889. The lakes within are a favourite retreat for migratory Siberian birds. }} * {{see | name=Agri Horticultural Garden | alt= | url=http://www.ahsi.in/ | email= | address=1, Alipore Rd | lat=22.5282 | long=88.3333 | directions=south from National Library, {{km|0.8}} from Remount Road railway station | phone=+91 33 2479 1713 | tollfree= | hours=7–11AM and 1:30–5:00PM, closed on W upto 11AM and Th | price= | wikidata=Q4693837 | lastedit=2022-10-08 | content=Founded by William Carey in 1820, it is a lush environ owned and managed by the Agri Horticultural Society of India. The venue for exotic plant and flower exhibitions, it is spread over 21 acres comprising main lawns and informal gardens and children park, and has many rare and tropical plants. }} * {{see | name=Dhanadhanya Auditorium | alt=ধনধান্য ''Dhanadhānya''; variously spelt as Dhanadhanye or Dhonodhanno | url= | email= | address=Thackeray Rd | lat=22.53036 | long=88.33946 | directions=off Debendra Lal Khan Rd, opposite Presidency Jail | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q118896876 | lastedit=2024-12-06 | content=An auditorium shaped like a humongous conch-shell (শাঁখ ''śā̃kh''), an example of mimetic or novelty architecture in India. Inaugurated on April 2023, the building has 6 floors containing guest house, restaurant, cafeteria, VIP lounge, media lounge and a convention centre. It hosts various cultural programmes and is also a venue for national and international trade fairs. }} * {{see | name=Indenture Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kidderpore Dock | lat=22.54831 | long=88.31886 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Indenture Memorial, Kidderepore.jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=A memorial dedicated to the 1.6 million Indian workers who were transported to labour in European colonies. The indenture system was a substitute for slavery, which was abolished in many European countries by the 19th century. This resulted to the increasing presence of Indians abroad, especially in Africa, Southeast Asia, the Caribbean and the Pacific. }} * {{see | name=Kalighat Home for the Dying | alt=নির্মল হৃদয় ''Nirmal Hr̥daẏ'' | url= | email= | address=Kalighat Rd | lat=22.520306 | long=88.341611 | directions=next door to the Kalighat Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3342122 | lastedit=2024-12-06 | content=A hospice for the sick, destitute and the dying established by Mother Teresa. }} * {{see | name=India Government Mint | alt=Calcutta Mint | url=http://igmkolkata.spmcil.com/Interface/Home.aspx | email= | address=Taratala | lat=22.5155 | long=88.3212 | directions=south of {{station|Majerhat|3|circular|sealdah south}} | phone=+91 33 2401 4132 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6019316 | lastedit=2024-12-06 | content=Though the mint dates back to 1757, the present building was built from the 1930s to the 1952. }} * {{see | name=National Library of India | alt=জাতীয় গ্রন্থাগার ''Jātīẏa Granthāgār'', previously Belvedere House | url=http://www.nationallibrary.gov.in/ | email=nldirector@rediffmail.com | address=Belvedere Rd, Alipore | lat=22.533206 | long=88.333318 | directions=near Alipore Zoo, 1.3 km E of {{station|Netaji Bhavan|blue}} | phone=+91 33 2248-7831,+91-33-2479 1382,+91-33-2479 1383,+91-33-2479 1384,+91-33-2479 1385,+91-33-2479 1386,+91-33-2479 1387,+91-33-2479 2467 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2479-1462 | hours=M-F 9AM-8PM; Sa Su, holidays: 9:30AM-6PM | price= | wikidata=Q619913 | lastedit=2022-10-08 | content=This is a stately mansion. Once home of the British Viceroys, Belvedere House is now the National Library. The oldest library in India with a huge collection, including some rarities. It houses over a million books and is the biggest in India. }} * {{see | name=Nizam Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=234/4, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5409 | long=88.35106 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39089723 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A heritage building constructed in 1933. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Sarobar | alt=রবীন্দ্র সরোবর ''Rabīndra Sarōbar'' | url= | email= | address=Southern Ave (Dr. Meghnad Saha Sarani), Dhakuria | lat=22.511016 | long=88.359706 | directions=local: {{station|Lake Gardens|city=kolkata|circular|sealdah south}}; metro: {{station|Rabindra Sarobar|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1651774 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A large open lake and park area housing boating clubs, an open air theatre and eateries. The rowing regatta events are held here. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Alipore Museum | alt=previously Alipore Central Jail | url= | email= | address=17, Judges Court Rd, Alipore | lat=22.525275 | long=88.339866 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4726823 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=A museum dedicated to the [[Indian independence movement]], especially its violent faction. It was a prison during British times used to arrest freedom activists like Sri Aurobindo and Subhas Chandra Bose. }} * {{see | name=Birla Industrial & Technological Museum | alt= | url=https://bitm.gov.in/ | email= | address=19A, Gurusaday Rd | lat=22.534817 | long=88.363361 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22877241, +91 33 22877242, +91 33 22877243 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM–5:30PM | price=₹15; special presentations are charged extra | wikidata=Q3532605 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Inaugurated in 1959 as the first popular science museum in Asia. It is a modern museum with lots of interesting artefacts, shows, events and activities, primarily popular with school-going children. Its collection of old gramophones, sound recorders, telephones, steam engines, road rollers, and other industrial machinery of the period 1880–1950 is very significant. It also actively organises summer camps, awareness programs and astronomy observations for school children. The exhibitions, many of them demanding you to take an active part, can compete with one you could visit in countries like the United States. }} * {{see | name=Centre of International Modern Art | alt=CIMA | url=https://www.cimaartindia.com/ | email=cima.gallery2011@gmail.com | address=Sunny Towers, 43 Ashutosh Chowdhury Ave | lat=22.531512 | long=88.362627 | directions=close to the Birla Temple | phone=+91 33 2485-8509, +91 33 2485 8717 | tollfree= | hours=M 3–7PM, Tu–Sa 11AM–7PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q107208118 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=A small museum showing modern artworks. }} * {{see | name=Maulana Azad Museum | alt= | url=http://www.makaias.gov.in | email= | address=5, Ashraf Mistry Ln, Ballygunge | lat=22.533024 | long=88.356568 | directions=near Ballygunge Military Camp Gate | phone=+91 33 23356623 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 11AM–5PM. Closed on Sa, Su and national holidays | price=Free | wikidata=Q6792417 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=The former home of the Indian freedom activist and the first Education Minister of India, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. Maulana Azad's work interpreting the mystic Sarmad of Prince Dara Shikoh's court is also a cornerstone to the secular tradition of India. The museum is replete with narrations of his life, times, work, personal archives and belongings. }} * {{see | name=Netaji Bhawan | alt=নেতাজি ভবন ''Nētaji Bhaban'' | url=https://www.netaji.org/#/nrb/museums | email= | address=38/2, Elgin Rd (Lala Lajpat Rai Sarani), Bhowanipore | lat=22.537586 | long=88.351246 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2486-8139, +91 33 2486 8070 (fax) | tollfree= | hours=Tu–Su 11AM–5PM, | price=₹20 (adults), ₹10 (children) | wikidata=Q11325387 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A heritage building maintained as a memorial and research centre to the life of the Indian nationalist Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. }} * {{see | name=Tram World | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gariahat | lat=22.52539 | long=88.36532 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=A museum showcasing the 150-year-old heritage of the tram system in Kolkata. }} * {{see | name=Gautam Sen Memorial Boardgame Museum | alt= | url=https://sites.google.com/view/kolkataboardgamemuseum/home | email= | address=Ballygunge Circular Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-12-19 | content=Entry is by invitation or prior appointment only. A collection of ancient and modern board games, ranging from the oldest boardgame, The Royal Game of Ur, to current games such as Settlers of Catan and Grizzled. }} ===Religious attractions=== [[File:A C Avenue 'Birla Temple'.jpg|thumb|Birla Temple]] * {{see | name=Bhowanipore Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Debendra Lal Khan Rd | lat=22.535694 | long=88.337205 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q69265409 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{see | name=Birla Temple | alt=Radha-Krishna Temple | url= | email= | address=2 Queens Park Road, Ashutosh Chowdary Ave | lat=22.5303 | long=88.3648| directions=Ballygunge Phari Bus Stop | phone= | hours=5:30-11AM and 4:30-9PM | price= | content=The most modernly-opulent in Kolkata and worth a visit. The adjoining tree-lined lane '''Queen's Park''' is the most exclusive and fashionable address in the city and is worth a stroll through. Some of the biggest names in the city call it home. A close second is '''Sunny Park''', running parallel to Queen's Park on the other side of the Birla Temple. }} * {{see | name=Kalighat Temple | alt=কালীঘাট মন্দির ''Kālīghāṭ Mandir'' | url=http://kalighattemple.com/ | email= | address=Kali Mandir Rd, Kalighat | lat=22.520278 | long=88.342083 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q535970 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Houses Kolkata's patron deity. According to the legend, when Lord Shiva’s wife Parvati’s body was cut up, one of her fingers fell here. Rebuilt in 1809, this is one of the 51 ''shakti pithas''. }} ==Do== === Cinema halls === * {{do | name=Basusree Cinema | alt= | url=http://basusreecinema.com/ | email= | address=102, SP Mukherjee Rd | lat= | long= | directions=metro: {{station|Kalighat|1}} | phone=+91 33 2455 4808 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=One of the four cinema halls that premiered Satyajit Ray's movie ''Pather Panchali''. While the other halls were later shut down or became inactive, this one is still very active. }} * {{do | name=Bijoli Cinema | alt= | url=https://in.bookmyshow.com/kolkata/cinemas/bijoli-cinema-kolkata/BJLC | email= | address=39, SP Mukherjee Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2455 5382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content= }} * {{do | name=Priya Cinema | alt= | url=http://www.priyaentertainments.com/ | email= | address=95, Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.518 | long=88.3544 | directions=beside Deshapriya Park | phone=+91 33 2464 1313 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7246463 | lastedit=2025-01-04 | content= }} * {{do | name=Menoka Cinema | alt= | url=http://www.menokacinemakolkata.com/Default.aspx | email= | address=5, Sarat Chatterjee Ave | lat= | long= | directions=near Rabindra Sarobar Stadium | phone=+91 33 2466 0417, +91 33 2466 3080 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content= }} ===Clubs and stadiums === * {{do | name=Calcutta Club | alt= | url=https://www.calcuttaclub.org/ | email= | address=241, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.54124 | long=88.3463 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5018923 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=An iconic landmark in Kolkata, representing the elite (''babu'') Bengal with rich history and culture. }} * {{do | name=Calcutta Cricket and Football Club | alt= | url=https://ccfc1792.com/ | email= | address=19/1, Gurusaday Dutta Rd, Ballygunge | lat=22.53346 | long=88.363746 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q11044609 | lastedit=2023-01-24 | content=Founded in 1792, it is the second oldest cricket club in the world after Marylebone Cricket Club. It has arguably the most picturesque cricket ground in Kolkata. }} * {{do | name=Calcutta Cricket Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=~107, Southern Ave, Lake Terrace | lat=22.51274 | long=88.35502 | directions=on the northern lakeshore of the Rabindra Sarobar | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Rabindra Sarobar Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Moira Street, Hindustan Park | lat=22.511667 | long=88.352222 | directions=Sarat Bose Southern Ave Crossing Bus Stop | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7278758 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Multi-use stadium. Can accommodate 40,000 spectators. }} ===Parks=== * {{do | name=Deshapriya Park | alt=দেশপ্রিয় পার্ক ''Deśapriẏa Pārk'' | url= | email= | address=Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.518294 | long=88.353553 | directions=intersection to Sarat Bose Rd; {{station|Deshapriya Park|bus|tram}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=| wikidata=Q5264153 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Although it looks like an ordinary playground for most of the time, it is the host of one of the biggest celebrations of [[Durga Puja]] in South Kolkata. It also contains one of the tallest permanently-installed Durga statues of the city. }} * {{do | name=Park Circus Maidan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Suhrawardy Ave | lat=22.543062 | long=88.369124 | directions=suburban: {{station|Park Circus|circular|sealdah south}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68935124 | lastedit=2022-12-08 | content=Park Circus Maidan becomes a focal point during the winter—especially in December and January—as it becomes home to circus companies and kids all over the city flock to the maidan to watch circus. }} == Buy == * {{buy | name=Fancy Market | alt= | url= | email=| address=~22, Karl Marx Sarani, Kidderpore | lat=22.5391 | long=88.3233 | directions= | phone=| hours= | price=| content=Consumer goods market - lots of foreign goods. Fancy items, fancy prices. Beware of fakes. }} * {{buy | name=Gariahat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.5191 | long=88.3616 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5523285 | lastedit=2022-09-28 | content=Spread along Rashbehari Avenue, Gariahat Road and the lanes in the area, Gariahat is one of the largest markets in Kolkata, where one can find shops ranging from branded showrooms and malls to numerous smaller shops. The shops sell a variety of saris, clothes, jewellery, electronic goods, furniture and whatnot. The makeshift shops along the footpaths, popular as hawkers, sell everything – crockery, cutlery, decorative items and utilities. It has numerous eateries and street food joints. Vegetables, fruits, flowers, betel leaves, fish, eggs and meat are the main groceries available. You can buy branded and non-branded clothing from Western like tees and jeans to traditional Indian such as dupattas and sarees, along with bags and purses. }} * {{buy | name=Jadu Babu's Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=31, Asutosh Mukherjee Rd | lat=22.533763 | long=88.346469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, fish, meat, eggs, etc., available }} * {{buy | name=Lake Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=104, Rash Behari Ave | lat=22.516746 | long=88.348325 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=One of the largest markets in Kolkata. Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, flowers, fish, meat, eggs, etc., available. It is the best place in South Kolkata for flowers, flower bouquets, floral rings etc. }} * {{buy | name=Lansdowne Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=65/1 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.528431 | long=88.351812 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, flowers, fish, meat, eggs, etc., available. Old market, popular for both variety and fair prices. }} * {{buy | name=Machhli Baba | alt= | url=http://machhlibaba.com/ | email= | address=24A, Lake View Rd, Ground Floor | lat=22.515583 | long=88.355867 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Different varieties of fish starting from single piece to large quantities }} === Malls === * {{buy | name=Forum Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=10/3 Elgin Rd | lat=22.5381 | long=88.3512 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-9PM, M 1-8PM, closed Sunday | price= | wikidata=Q5473038 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=There is an appealing range of upmarket shops housed across six floors. Forum is a centre of fashion and there are many beautiful clothes, accessories, and shoes to choose from. For those with nostalgia about things foreign, can find shops selling Belgian chocolates, English biscuits and so on. Restaurants and bars include [http://www.speciality.co.in/oh_calcutta/index.html Oh! Calcutta] ({{phone|+91 33 22837161}}, mains from ₹150, excellent Bengali food), Cafe Mezzuna, Ar-Han-Thai (Lebanese & Thai food), Spaghetti Kitchen (Italian food), Starstruck (Chinese, Continental, North Indian, Mughlai). }} * {{buy | name=Lake Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kavi Bharati Sarani | lat=22.516546 | long=88.349125 | directions=off 104, Rash Behari Ave | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Highend shopping mall, branded shops, food court and restaurants, multiplex, offices and hotel. }} * {{buy | name=Merlin Homeland Mall | alt= | url=https://merlinhomelandmall.wordpress.com/ | email= | address=18B Asutosh Mukherjee Rd, Bhowanipore | lat=22.5392 | long=88.3460 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Homeland Mall is one stop mall for house building materials and interior decor items. E Zone Electronic Mall is next to it. }} * {{buy | name=Quest Mall | alt= | url=http://questmall.in/ | email= | address=33, Syed Amir Ali Ave, Park Circus | lat=22.539083 | long=88.365594 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17069862 | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content=Luxury retail, largest apparel store, fine dining, six-screen insignia class multiplex. Restaurants and bars include Chili's and Irish House. }} ==Eat== Major chain restaurants include '''Domino's''' (1/432, Gariahat Rd S ad 62/7, Ballygunge Circular Rd) and '''Haldiram's''' (58, Chowringhee Rd and 24, Ballygunge Park). * {{eat | name=6 Ballygunge Place | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.527863 | long=88.368077 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24603922, +91 99 03975614 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q23043404| wikipedia=6 Ballygunge Place | content=Bengali & North Indian cuisine. Buffet lunch ₹375 (Monday to Friday), ₹425 (Saturday). No drinks. }} * {{eat | name=Amrit National Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=43 Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.525894 | long=88.325416 | directions=Mominpur Bus Stop | phone=+91 33 66343401 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Budget restaurant. Biryani and Mughlai food. }} * {{eat | name=Arsalan | alt= | url= | email= | address=28, Circus Ave | lat=22.541984 | long=88.363626 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22844010, +91 33 22848556 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=ارسلان ریسٹورنٹ کلکت .jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Biryani and Mughlai food. Popular items: firni, mutton kosha, mutton boti kebab, chicken chatpata, mutton biryani, egg chicken roll. They have seven branches: 1. Chinar Park, 2. Anandapur (opposite Calcutta International School), 3. Hatibagan, 4. Park Street Area (Muzaffar Ahmed Road), 5. Park Circus 7-point crossing, 6. New Alipore, and 7. Jessore Road, Bangur. }} * {{eat | name=Azad Hind | alt= | url= | email= | address=12/1, Ballygunge Circular Rd | lat=22.535884 | long=88.356996 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24866475, +91 33 24864742 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Virtually open round the clock | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=North Indian cuisine, street food. Popular items: chicken bharta, tandoori chicken, tandoori aloo, butter naan, dal tadka, rolls, panneer butter masala. No alchohol. }} * {{eat | name=Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick | alt= | url=https://www.balarammullick.com | email=balarammullicksweets@gmail.com | address=2, Puddapukur Rd, Bhowanipore | lat=22.533284 | long=88.346956 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2486 9490, +91 33 2454 0281 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-22 | content=Offers a wide range of sweets and snacks. Famous for its baked rosogolla. }} * {{eat | name=Balwant Singh's Eating House | alt= | url= | email= | address=10/B, Harish Mukherjee Rd | lat=22.537784 | long=88.344186 | directions= | phone=+91 9903975361 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=closed 3–4AM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=North Indian vegetarian cuisine. Popular items: Tea, lassi, paneer tikka, samosa, dudh cola, kesar chai. No alcohol. }} * {{eat | name=Banana Leaf | alt=A unit of Komala Vilas | url= | email= | address=74-75, Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.517243 | long=88.349757 | directions=near Lake Market | phone=+91 33 24641960, +91 33 24640941 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=South Indian vegetarian snacks and thali meal. Great food. Authentic South Indian taste - very different from the road side stalls catering to Bengali taste. }} * {{eat | name=Bhojohori Manna | alt= | url=http://bhojohorimanna.com/ | email= | address= | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | phone=+91 33 24663941, +91 33 24667686 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic and traditional Bengali food. Fish and vegetarian speciality - shukto, mochar ghonto, chital macher muitha, chingri macher malaikari, kankra (crab), et al. Mutton Dak Bungalow has become a trade mark. No hard drinks. }} ** {{eat | name=18/1A Hindustan Rd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.520263 | long=88.360997 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-28 | content= }} ** {{eat | name=9/18 Ekdalia Rd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.521063 | long=88.366577 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-28 | content=Mostly for takeaway service. Food also served. }} ** {{eat | name=23A Priyanath Mallick St | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.524354 | long=88.347536 | directions=near Hazra More | phone=+91 33 24545922 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Bijoli Grill | alt= | url=http://www.bijoligrill.com/kolkata.php | email= | phone=+91 33 4003 6606 | tollfree= | fax= | content=Seafood, Chinese and Bengali cuisine. }} ** {{eat | name=38, SP Mukherjee Rd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.527084 | long=88.345656 | directions= | hours= Noon-10PM | price= | content= }} ** {{eat | name=124B, Southern Ave | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.514263 | long=88.363237 | directions= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Coastal Macha | alt= | url= | email= | address=55, Southern Ave | lat=22.513263 | long=88.349337 | directions= | phone=+91 33 3099 1254 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=Indian seafood, South Indian, Keralian, Maharashtrian. }} * {{eat | name=Chinese Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=P 21 Old Ballygunge Rd | lat=22.528863 | long=88.365987 | directions=at Ballygunge Phari crossing | phone=+91 33 2283 3093, +91 9836627306 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:30PM | price= | content=Chinese and Thai cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=The Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ballygunge Phari | lat=22.528353 | long=88.365777 | directions= | phone=+91 8017779607, +91 9903000353 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM-11PM | price= | content=North Indian and Chinese cuisine. Try out the Punjabi speciality;''makka di roti'' and ''sarson di saag'' }} * {{eat | name=Drop In | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ground Floor, Ideal Towers, 57, Block A, Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.531794 | long=88.326716 | directions= | phone=+91 9073309928, +91 9073309929 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7:30AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=Vegetarian restaurant. Indian and Chinese cuisine. Popular items: lassi, naan, paneer tikka masala, roti, thali. }} * {{eat | name=Fung Shway | alt= | url= | email= | address=122A, Southern Ave | lat=22.514163 | long=88.362457 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4065 9510 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=Thai, Chinese, etc. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram | alt= | url= | email= | address=84A, Shambhunath Pandit St | lat=22.538084 | long=88.345996 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2455 2357 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=One of the oldest sweet meat sellers in Kolkata, with a chain of outlets across the city. It is a revered name in the arena of Bengali sweets. Take away only. }} * {{eat | name=Gupta Brothers | alt= | url= | email= | address=82A, Shambhunath Pandit Rd | lat=22.537984 | long=88.345206 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2455 6328, +91 33 2454 8716 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=Sweets and casual dining. Popular items: vegetarian thali, gulab jamun, dahi vada, dhania dosa, kulfi, mango lassi and idli. }} * {{eat | name=Kasturi Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=13/6B Anil Moitro Rd | lat=22.524313 | long=88.368597 | directions=near Patha Bhaban Montessori School | phone=+91 33 2440 0039, +91 8334922228 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:45AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Dhakai cuisine. Speciality - bhetki paturi, biryani, mochar ghonto, kochu pata chingri bhapa, jhuri alu bhaja, mutton kosha, kosha mangsho. }} * {{eat | name=Khawab | alt= | url= | email= | address=166A, Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.519163 | long=88.352187 | directions=near National High School For Girls | phone=+91 9836033337, +91 9874246629, +91 33 24669695 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hyderabadi Mutton Biryani, Mutton Rogan Josh. }} * {{eat | name=Krystal Chopstick | alt= | url= | email= | address=71 H, Hindustan Park | lat=22.518263 | long=88.361897 | directions=opposite Basanti Devi College | phone=+91 33 4060 3022, +91 9831526118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:30PM | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. No drinks. }} * {{eat | name=Kurry Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=176 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.516143 | long=88.352757 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24661979 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Mexican, Italian and other cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Kwality | alt= | url= | email= | address=2A, Gariahat Rd | lat=22.528063 | long=88.366277 | directions=near Ballygunge Phari crossing | phone=+91 33 2460 9982, +91 33 2460 7079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:45PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=One of the earliest posh restaurants in South Kolkata. Authentic North Indian delicacies. Continental and Chinese also served. Drinks available. Payment in cash only. }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja and Maharani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.516513 | long=88.352387 | directions=near the Rashbehari Ave crossing | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=These are two separate kachori shops, near each other. The footpath in front of the shops is always crowded. Their early morning stocks often get exhausted by around 9AM. They also serve later in the day. Anyone going that way must give it a try. Don't miss the jalebis/malpuas after the kachouri-sabzi. The location shown on the map here is that of Maharani, and Maharaja is a little down the road towards the lakes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworth House, 3A, Guru Saday Dutta Rd | lat=22.536913 | long=88.359477 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2283 7964, +91 9330627506 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30-3PM, 7-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Innovative Chinese food. Grand buffets. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Marco Polo | alt= | url= | email= | address=205 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.514763 | long=88.352657 | directions=near Southern Ave crossing | phone=+91 33 2463 0909 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-11:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Continental and North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Mirch Masala | alt= | url=http://mirch-masala.in/ | email= | address=49/2 Gariahat Rd | lat=22.523184 | long=88.364596 | directions=near Pantaloons | phone=+91 9830644484, +91 33 24618900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Great Punjabi food, also has a Chinese restaurant. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Mitra Cafe | alt= | url=http://mitracafe.co.in/ | email= | address=23/37 Gariahat Rd | lat=22.515563 | long=88.367127 | directions= | phone=+91 90076 95923 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=North Indian fast food. Speciality - fish kaviraji, mutton chops, rolls, pakoda, mutton kaviraji, chowmein, pudding. }} * {{eat | name=Only Alibaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=28A, Syed Amir Ali Ave | lat=22.540784 | long=88.365426 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4070 1109 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-4:30PM, 7-11PM | price= | content=Biryani and Mughlai food. The food has a good taste in the main shop but in their fry king outlet at Baghajatin some items are bad and unpalatable. }} * {{eat | name=Oudh 1590 | alt= | url=http://oudh1590.com/ | email= | address=23/B, Deshapriya Park and also at P-562, Hemanta Mukhopadhyay Sarani (behind Vivekananda Park) | lat=22.518543 | long=88.350257 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Period dining experience - try it out. }} * {{eat | name=Padmaparer Rannaghar | alt= | url= | email= | address=26/4 Gariahat Rd | lat=22.518363 | long=88.365457 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2419 8916 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10PM | price= | lastedit=2018-03-16 | content=Bengali and South Indian cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Pepper Chino | alt= | url= | email= | address=37 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.534064 | long=88.353256 | directions=opposite Lakshmi Narayan Temple | phone=+91 33 6555 2051, +91 7004985103 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-4AM | price= | content=North Indian Continental and Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Prema Vilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=63/1, Lake Market | lat=22.517143 | long=88.348957 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2463 1961 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=South Indian vegetarian. }} * {{eat | name=Sangu Valley Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=6A, SP Mukherjee Rd | lat=22.528454 | long=88.345336 | directions= | phone=+91 9831361928, +91 8583962171 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | content=North Indian, Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=South India Club Canteen | alt= | url=http://calcuttasouthindiaclub.com/ | email= | address=70 B, Hindustan Park | lat=22.518363 | long=88.362757 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24640927 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Budget restaurant. The place is not posh but has tasty food. }} * {{eat | name=Subway | alt= | url= | email= | address=Merlin Homeland, 18B, Asutosh Mukherjee Road | lat=22.536284 | long=88.345586 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4004 7412, +91 33 2454 2234 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=Healthy food, salad, fast foods. Popular items: Sandwiches, Chicken Wrap, Chicken Tikka Sub. No alcohol. }} * {{eat | name=Tamarind | alt= | url= | email= | address=177 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.518513 | long=88.351857 | directions=near Deshapriya Park | phone=+91 33 66343960 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=South Indian mon-vegetarian. Snacks like idli and dosa are not available. Specialised main meal dishes. Enjoy Keralite food, Coorgi dishes et al. }} * {{eat | name=Tangra Kaizen | alt= | url= | email= | address=33B, Sarat Bose Rd, Paddapukur | lat=22.534544 | long=88.353356 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2474 4358 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=Chinese and Thai cuisine. Drinks served. Only cash payment. }} * {{eat | name=Tero Parban | alt= | url= | email= | address=49C Purna Das Rd | lat=22.516863 | long=88.362657 | directions=Near Gol Park | phone=+91 33 2464 0199, +91 9830432175 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:30PM | price= | content=Bengali cuisine with the ambience of a traditional Bengali home. }} * {{eat | name=Zeeshan | alt= | url= | email= | address=17 Syed Amir Ali Ave | lat=22.541384 | long=88.365926 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22806842, +91 9903611112 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-midnight | price= | content=Zeeshan has several outlets mostly for takeaway customers: 1. Deshapriya Park, 2. Kidderpore, 3. Garia, 4. Lake Market Area, 5. Ballygunge, 6. Tollygunge, 7. Esplanade, 8. College Street.<br/>Biryani and Mughlai food. Popular items: biryani, rolls, firni, murg reshmi kabab, mutton tikka, mutton chaap, tandoori chicken. }} * {{eat | name=Zeeshan | alt= | url= | email= | address=187 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.516343 | long=88.352387 | directions=near Deshapriya Park | phone=+91 33 2464 4224, +91 7604066539 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11PM| price= | content=Great Mughlai food, take away only. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mocha | alt= | url= | email= | address=AJC Bose Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Underground | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Hindusthan International | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Fern Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.5209 | long=88.3681 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24407797, +91 9831477704 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komala Vilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=74&75 Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.5170 | long=88.3492| directions= | phone=+91 33 24641960| fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Platinum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Park Inn | alt= | url=http://en.directrooms.com/hotels/info/1-27-155-80427/ | email= | address=10/1 Tal Bagan Ln | lat= 22.5411| long=88.3683 | directions= | phone= | fax=| price= US$20 for standard double bedded room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sharani Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=71/K Hindustan Park, Gariahat | lat=22.5182 | long=88.3626 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24635717, +91 33 24641999, +91 33 24644971 | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Gariahat Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=19, Garcha Rd, Dover Terrace | lat=22.51879 | long=88.365256 | directions= | phone=+91 72589 86668 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111055215 | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Cornfield Retreat | alt= | url=https://www.kolkatahomestay.com | email=bookings@kolkatahomestay.com | address=8/1C, Cornfield Road | lat=22.52195 | long=88.36857 | directions= | phone=+91 9830 555 145 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹849 | image= | lastedit=2024-10-03 | content=Single, couple and family options. Air-conditioning, fibre-optic WiFi, streaming enabled. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=The Best Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1B, Sushil Sen Rd | lat=22.5363 | long=88.3453 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24549101 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,000-3,000 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=Amenities include air-conditioning, telephone, internet connectivity, TV (Cable), laundry service, housekeeping, room service, continental breakfast. Deluxe Suite (King size Double Bed)/Deluxe Queen (Queen Double Bed)/Deluxe Twin (two single beds) rooms with attached bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Fortuna Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.casafortunahotel.com/ | email=resvn@casafortunahotel.com | address=234/1A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5410 | long=88.3555 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4021 8000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Deluxe single ₹5,000, Deluxe double ₹6,000 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Central Bed & Breakfast | url=http://www.centralbnb.com | email=j@centralbnb.com | address=7th Floor, Lansdowne Court, 5B, Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.54022 | long=88.3544 | directions=near Minto Park | phone=+91 9836465400 | fax= | hours= | price=₹2,699| checkin=Noon | checkout=10AM | content=10-minute drive from Park Street and 1 minute from Minto Park. It’s on the 7th floor of a residential apartment. 4 bedrooms with free WiFi, attached bathrooms, common kitchen. All rooms are air-conditioned. Owners live in the same building. Great location, safe, and 24/7 security. Recommended for backpackers. }} * {{sleep | name=Kalighat Pilgrimage Facilitation Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,000–2,200 per room | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Samilton | alt= | url=http://www.samiltonhotel.com/ | email= | address=35A, Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.5338 | long=88.3532 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40932000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-4,500 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Lee International | alt= | url=https://thesparkhotels.com/hotel_details/hotel-lee-international | email=booking.hotellee@thesparkhotels.com | address=53/D1, Tiljala Rd | lat=22.53889 | long=88.37625 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23431678, +91 33 23431679 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹2,580-4,095 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Mrs. Dam's Guesthouse | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2290 4533 | fax= | hours= | price=₹2000 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Modern, prettily furnished rooms with attached bath, air-con, TV, etc. in a quiet, safe neighborhood. Helpful owner lives in the same building, and is a handy source for tips on what to see/where to go in Kolkata. They also have a great cook, so make sure you try a home-cooked Bengali meal when you're there. }} * {{sleep | name=The Red Carpet | alt= | url= | email= | address=P-399, Keyatala Ln | lat=22.5159 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40086847 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,500 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Blue Chip | alt= | url=http://www.bluechipguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=99/5/13, Dr Amiya Bose Sarani | lat=22.52795 | long=88.36803 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2460 3983 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Basera Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=128C, Southern Ave, Golpark | lat=22.51524 | long=88.36541 | directions= | phone=+91 90515 66883 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content= }} ===Splurge=== *{{sleep | name=Bodhi Tree Boutique Guesthouse | url=http://bodhitree-cal.spaces.live.com | email= | address=48/44, Swiss Park, | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2424 6534 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2424 1598| hours= | price=| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Hindustan International | alt= | url=http://www.hindusthan.com | email= | address=AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5409 | long=88.3506 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹5,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Bengal | alt= | url=https://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-bengal-kolkata/ | email=bengal.calcutta@tajhotels.com | address=34B, Belvedere Rd, Alipore | lat=22.53738 | long=88.33394 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2223 3939, +91 33 6612 3939, +91 33 2223 1193 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2223 1766 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q110942881 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A deluxe hotel and is amongst the top hotels in Kolkata. The restaurants are also open to non-residents. The hotel has 200 rooms and 29 suites, with terracotta statuary and palm-covered atrium lobby. It has fine dining restaurants such as Cal27, Sonargaon, Souk, Chinoiseire and The Chambers, along with an al fresco area and banquet halls. }} * {{sleep | name=Roland Hotel | alt= | url=https://rolandhotel.com | email=info@rolandhotel.com | address=28A, Rowland Rd, Rowland Row, Ballygunge | lat=22.536324 | long=88.354110 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2475-7780 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | image= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content= }} == Connect == * {{listing | name=Kolkata Metropolitan Library | alt= | url= | email= | address=2, Ballygunge Park Rd | lat=22.53425 | long=88.36564 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2287-2004 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content= }} * {{Listing | name=Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture | alt= | url=http://sriramakrishna.org/ | email=rmic@vsnl.com | address=Golpark | lat=22.5149 | long=88.3662 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2464 1307 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7288805 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Houses a bookstore and a library, among other amenities, with Ramakrishna-Vivekananda literature. It has an auditorium and a well-maintained guest house. }} * {{listing | name=Sarat Bose Road Post Office| alt= | url=http://indiapost.gov.in | email= | address=Raja Basanta Roy Rd, Southern Ave, Ballygunge | lat=22.51397 | long=88.35284| directions= | phone=+91 33 2466 3126| hours= | price=| content= }} ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Alipore police station | lat=22.52825 | long=88.33623 | phone=+91 33 24791021 }} * {{listing | name=Ballygunge police station | lat=22.53022 | long=88.35395 | phone=+91 33 24543179, +91 33 24542100, +91 33 24862601 }} * {{listing | name=Bhowanipore police station | lat=22.52683 | long=88.34598 | phone=+91 33 24558092, +91 33 24541100, +91 33 24862711 }} * {{listing | name=Gariahat police station | lat=22.52126 | long=88.36418 | phone=+91 33 24863702 }} ==Go next== {{routebox | placename=South Kolkata | image1=Baruipur–Namkhana Line.svg | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=N | majorl1=END | minorl1= | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Bakkhali]] | minorr1=[[Jaynagar Majilpur]] | image2=Kolkata Circular Railway.svg | imagesize2=100 | directionl2=N | majorl2=[[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] | minorl2=[[Kolkata/Maidan|Maidan]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Kolkata/Far North|Far North Kolkata]] | minorr2=[[Kolkata/East|East Kolkata]] | image3=Kolkata Metro Blue Line text icon.svg | imagesize3=100 | directionl3=N | majorl3=[[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]] | minorl3=[[Kolkata/Central|Central Kolkata]] | directionr3=S | majorr3=END | minorr3= }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.530|88.342|zoom=14}} 8zqreuvjkgtmexd9dxlczc9nti5rf0y 5090803 5090802 2025-07-10T13:28:02Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Budget */ Updated listing for Hotel Platinum 5090803 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Rashbehari avenue and SP Mukherjee road crossing(Kolkata) (cropped).jpg|pgname=South Kolkata}} [[File:Alipore_Zoological_Garden_-_Kolkata_2011-05-03_2548.JPG|thumb|Entrance of Alipore Zoo]] [[File:Kalighat_temple_with_bazzar.JPG|thumb|Kalighat Temple]] '''South Kolkata''' (দক্ষিণ কলকাতা ''Dakṣiṇ Kalkātā'') is a posh and new area of [[Kolkata]]. It is less congested and more modern than most parts of the city. You will find more flat blocks and green patches here compared to the North. ==Understand== This district covers the neighbourhoods south of Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Road (AJC Bose Road, previously Lower Circular Road), west of Sealdah South lines, and north of the [[Kolkata/Southern Suburbs|Southern Suburbs]]. The major neighbourhoods in South Kolkata include Alipore, Ballygunge, Bhowanipore, Chetla,Dhakuria, Gariahat, Kalighat, Kidderpore, Majerhat, Park Circus, and Taratala. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.5265|88.346|height=520|width=620|zoom=14|name=Map of South Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} {{Mapmask|22.5159,88.3717|22.5293,88.3729|22.5294,88.3737|22.5292,88.3747|22.5295,88.3748|22.5302,88.3747|22.5313,88.3748|22.5330,88.3749|22.5331,88.3748|22.5333,88.3746|22.5334,88.3745|22.5339,88.3745|22.5343,88.3744|22.5344,88.3746|22.5344,88.3747|22.5345,88.3748|22.5345,88.3749|22.5344,88.3758|22.5347,88.3761|22.5347,88.3763|22.5344,88.3764|22.5342,88.3766|22.5340,88.3767|22.5339,88.3770|22.5336,88.3770|22.5335,88.3771|22.5335,88.3773|22.5333,88.3786|22.5334,88.3787|22.5334,88.3790|22.5334,88.3792|22.5336,88.3796|22.5341,88.3799|22.5342,88.3799|22.5350,88.3797|22.5351,88.3797|22.5356,88.3799|22.5360,88.3800|22.5374,88.3795|22.5379,88.3794|22.5380,88.3793|22.5382,88.3789|22.5384,88.3785|22.5385,88.3785|22.5392,88.3787|22.5391,88.3776|22.5392,88.3760|22.5390,88.3752|22.5391,88.3737|22.5513,88.3750|22.5513,88.3749|22.5514,88.3746|22.5515,88.3743|22.5516,88.3741|22.5517,88.3734|22.5517,88.3732|22.5518,88.3724|22.5520,88.3724|22.5521,88.3720|22.5523,88.3715|22.5513,88.3712|22.5449,88.3705|22.5434,88.3665|22.5433,88.3665|22.5432,88.3665|22.5431,88.3665|22.5430,88.3664|22.5430,88.3663|22.5429,88.3662|22.5429,88.3661|22.5430,88.3660|22.5430,88.3659|22.5431,88.3658|22.5432,88.3658|22.5434,88.3658|22.5434,88.3658|22.5435,88.3658|22.5467,88.3614|22.5410,88.3593|22.5416,88.3473|22.5417,88.3459|22.5415,88.3435|22.5399,88.3370|22.5399,88.3365|22.5400,88.3361|22.5407,88.3347|22.5392,88.3338|22.5394,88.3336|22.5396,88.3334|22.5398,88.3331|22.5404,88.3328|22.5407,88.3325|22.5409,88.3323|22.5411,88.3320|22.5412,88.3316|22.5412,88.3311|22.5412,88.3307|22.5412,88.3302|22.5412,88.3298|22.5412,88.3294|22.5414,88.3291|22.5422,88.3281|22.5442,88.3267|22.5461,88.3257|22.5467,88.3250|22.5470,88.3248|22.5473,88.3246|22.5477,88.3245|22.5479,88.3245|22.5481,88.3246|22.5488,88.3250|22.5491,88.3251|22.5494,88.3251|22.5500,88.3250|22.5503,88.3249|22.5534,88.3223|22.5508,88.3187|22.5497,88.3130|22.5493,88.3085|22.5495,88.3047|22.5521,88.2957|22.5522,88.2937|22.5526,88.2911|22.5482,88.2892|22.5480,88.2905|22.5470,88.2927|22.5463,88.2944|22.5461,88.2945|22.5458,88.2946|22.5454,88.2946|22.5445,88.2945|22.5439,88.2945|22.5438,88.2945|22.5436,88.2946|22.5435,88.2939|22.5435,88.2938|22.5435,88.2937|22.5433,88.2935|22.5433,88.2934|22.5430,88.2933|22.5429,88.2932|22.5429,88.2932|22.5429,88.2929|22.5429,88.2926|22.5430,88.2923|22.5431,88.2918|22.5432,88.2915|22.5432,88.2915|22.5435,88.2913|22.5435,88.2912|22.5437,88.2905|22.5436,88.2905|22.5435,88.2904|22.5435,88.2903|22.5435,88.2900|22.5432,88.2900|22.5428,88.2901|22.5427,88.2905|22.5411,88.2907|22.5408,88.2908|22.5405,88.2910|22.5403,88.2919|22.5399,88.2919|22.5387,88.2916|22.5386,88.2933|22.5320,88.2916|22.5312,88.2915|22.5238,88.2911|22.5225,88.2912|22.5215,88.2915|22.5205,88.2918|22.5199,88.2921|22.5173,88.2915|22.5163,88.2923|22.5166,88.2930|22.5168,88.2938|22.5169,88.2945|22.5171,88.2970|22.5172,88.2976|22.5173,88.2979|22.5170,88.2987|22.5169,88.2991|22.5150,88.3007|22.5142,88.3016|22.5141,88.3028|22.5138,88.3042|22.5131,88.3057|22.5122,88.3079|22.5120,88.3077|22.5118,88.3077|22.5118,88.3079|22.5118,88.3079|22.5118,88.3080|22.5117,88.3085|22.5115,88.3092|22.5106,88.3139|22.5105,88.3143|22.5105,88.3148|22.5104,88.3151|22.5104,88.3152|22.5104,88.3153|22.5104,88.3157|22.5104,88.3159|22.5102,88.3166|22.5099,88.3180|22.5098,88.3182|22.5091,88.3209|22.5132,88.3224|22.5184,88.3237|22.5103,88.3359|22.5098,88.3367|22.5094,88.3378|22.5092,88.3387|22.5097,88.3422|22.5095,88.3434|22.5083,88.3457|22.5080,88.3463|22.5079,88.3468|22.5077,88.3484|22.5077,88.3500|22.5078,88.3509|22.5102,88.3657|22.5104,88.3666|22.5107,88.3675|22.5113,88.3685|22.5121,88.3695|22.5129,88.3702|22.5135,88.3707|22.5145,88.3712|22.5159,88.3717}} South Kolkata can be easily reached from Central Kolkata easily by bus, taxi or metro railway. The number of buses is slightly low from the North, but the metro and tram are always available. There also are bus and metro links from further east and south. ===By bus=== Like other parts of the city, buses have the most extensive coverage, and is inexpensive. ===By metro=== South Kolkata is mainly served by metro line {{rint|kolkata|1}}, which runs across Ashutosh Mukherjee Road and SP Mukherjee Road. This is useful to get in here from northern and southeastern parts of the city, though you have to take a car, bus, or rickshaw to get to places like Ballygunge and Dhakuria. Line {{rint|kolkata|3}} begins from Majerhat and runs across Diamond Harbour Road, in the [[Kolkata/Southern Suburbs|Southern Suburbs]]. ===By train=== {{rint|kolkata|circular}} runs across this district, from Ballygunge to Khiddirpur, which is useful to get here from northern parts of the city. There are also two junction stations for local trains, both of which are useful for people from the [[Kolkata/Southern Suburbs|Southern Suburbs]] or [[South 24 Parganas]]. * {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Ballygunge|circular|sealdah south}}|wikidata=Q55639257}} * {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Majerhat|3|circular|sealdah south}}|wikidata=Q20718005}} ==See== [[File:Belvedere Building - Indian National Library - Belvedere Estate - Kolkata 2014-05-02 4742.JPG|thumb|National Library of India]] [[File:Rabindra Sarovar view.jpg|thumb|Rabindra Sarobar]] * {{see | name=Alipore Zoo | alt=আলিপুর চিড়িয়াখানা ''Ālipur Ciṛiẏākhānā'' | url=http://www.kolkatazoo.in/ | email=director@kolkatazoo.in | address=No.2 Alipore Rd, Alipore | lat=22.535913 | long=88.332053 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2479 1150 | tollfree= | hours=F–W 9AM–5PM, aquarium 10:30AM–5PM | price=Zoo ₹20, aquarium ₹5, video photography ₹250 per hour | wikidata=Q3346440 | lastedit=2023-04-14 | content=One of the most famous zoological gardens in Eastern India. It was once notorious for its cross-breeding experiments between lions and tigers to produce strains like ''tigons'', ''ligers'' and ''litigons''. It was home to Advaita, the longest-lived animal in the world, who died in March 2006. The other success story of the zoo was a live birth of the rare Sumatran rhinoceros in 1889. The lakes within are a favourite retreat for migratory Siberian birds. }} * {{see | name=Agri Horticultural Garden | alt= | url=http://www.ahsi.in/ | email= | address=1, Alipore Rd | lat=22.5282 | long=88.3333 | directions=south from National Library, {{km|0.8}} from Remount Road railway station | phone=+91 33 2479 1713 | tollfree= | hours=7–11AM and 1:30–5:00PM, closed on W upto 11AM and Th | price= | wikidata=Q4693837 | lastedit=2022-10-08 | content=Founded by William Carey in 1820, it is a lush environ owned and managed by the Agri Horticultural Society of India. The venue for exotic plant and flower exhibitions, it is spread over 21 acres comprising main lawns and informal gardens and children park, and has many rare and tropical plants. }} * {{see | name=Dhanadhanya Auditorium | alt=ধনধান্য ''Dhanadhānya''; variously spelt as Dhanadhanye or Dhonodhanno | url= | email= | address=Thackeray Rd | lat=22.53036 | long=88.33946 | directions=off Debendra Lal Khan Rd, opposite Presidency Jail | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q118896876 | lastedit=2024-12-06 | content=An auditorium shaped like a humongous conch-shell (শাঁখ ''śā̃kh''), an example of mimetic or novelty architecture in India. Inaugurated on April 2023, the building has 6 floors containing guest house, restaurant, cafeteria, VIP lounge, media lounge and a convention centre. It hosts various cultural programmes and is also a venue for national and international trade fairs. }} * {{see | name=Indenture Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kidderpore Dock | lat=22.54831 | long=88.31886 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Indenture Memorial, Kidderepore.jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=A memorial dedicated to the 1.6 million Indian workers who were transported to labour in European colonies. The indenture system was a substitute for slavery, which was abolished in many European countries by the 19th century. This resulted to the increasing presence of Indians abroad, especially in Africa, Southeast Asia, the Caribbean and the Pacific. }} * {{see | name=Kalighat Home for the Dying | alt=নির্মল হৃদয় ''Nirmal Hr̥daẏ'' | url= | email= | address=Kalighat Rd | lat=22.520306 | long=88.341611 | directions=next door to the Kalighat Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3342122 | lastedit=2024-12-06 | content=A hospice for the sick, destitute and the dying established by Mother Teresa. }} * {{see | name=India Government Mint | alt=Calcutta Mint | url=http://igmkolkata.spmcil.com/Interface/Home.aspx | email= | address=Taratala | lat=22.5155 | long=88.3212 | directions=south of {{station|Majerhat|3|circular|sealdah south}} | phone=+91 33 2401 4132 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6019316 | lastedit=2024-12-06 | content=Though the mint dates back to 1757, the present building was built from the 1930s to the 1952. }} * {{see | name=National Library of India | alt=জাতীয় গ্রন্থাগার ''Jātīẏa Granthāgār'', previously Belvedere House | url=http://www.nationallibrary.gov.in/ | email=nldirector@rediffmail.com | address=Belvedere Rd, Alipore | lat=22.533206 | long=88.333318 | directions=near Alipore Zoo, 1.3 km E of {{station|Netaji Bhavan|blue}} | phone=+91 33 2248-7831,+91-33-2479 1382,+91-33-2479 1383,+91-33-2479 1384,+91-33-2479 1385,+91-33-2479 1386,+91-33-2479 1387,+91-33-2479 2467 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2479-1462 | hours=M-F 9AM-8PM; Sa Su, holidays: 9:30AM-6PM | price= | wikidata=Q619913 | lastedit=2022-10-08 | content=This is a stately mansion. Once home of the British Viceroys, Belvedere House is now the National Library. The oldest library in India with a huge collection, including some rarities. It houses over a million books and is the biggest in India. }} * {{see | name=Nizam Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=234/4, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5409 | long=88.35106 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39089723 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A heritage building constructed in 1933. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Sarobar | alt=রবীন্দ্র সরোবর ''Rabīndra Sarōbar'' | url= | email= | address=Southern Ave (Dr. Meghnad Saha Sarani), Dhakuria | lat=22.511016 | long=88.359706 | directions=local: {{station|Lake Gardens|city=kolkata|circular|sealdah south}}; metro: {{station|Rabindra Sarobar|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1651774 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A large open lake and park area housing boating clubs, an open air theatre and eateries. The rowing regatta events are held here. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Alipore Museum | alt=previously Alipore Central Jail | url= | email= | address=17, Judges Court Rd, Alipore | lat=22.525275 | long=88.339866 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4726823 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=A museum dedicated to the [[Indian independence movement]], especially its violent faction. It was a prison during British times used to arrest freedom activists like Sri Aurobindo and Subhas Chandra Bose. }} * {{see | name=Birla Industrial & Technological Museum | alt= | url=https://bitm.gov.in/ | email= | address=19A, Gurusaday Rd | lat=22.534817 | long=88.363361 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22877241, +91 33 22877242, +91 33 22877243 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM–5:30PM | price=₹15; special presentations are charged extra | wikidata=Q3532605 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Inaugurated in 1959 as the first popular science museum in Asia. It is a modern museum with lots of interesting artefacts, shows, events and activities, primarily popular with school-going children. Its collection of old gramophones, sound recorders, telephones, steam engines, road rollers, and other industrial machinery of the period 1880–1950 is very significant. It also actively organises summer camps, awareness programs and astronomy observations for school children. The exhibitions, many of them demanding you to take an active part, can compete with one you could visit in countries like the United States. }} * {{see | name=Centre of International Modern Art | alt=CIMA | url=https://www.cimaartindia.com/ | email=cima.gallery2011@gmail.com | address=Sunny Towers, 43 Ashutosh Chowdhury Ave | lat=22.531512 | long=88.362627 | directions=close to the Birla Temple | phone=+91 33 2485-8509, +91 33 2485 8717 | tollfree= | hours=M 3–7PM, Tu–Sa 11AM–7PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q107208118 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=A small museum showing modern artworks. }} * {{see | name=Maulana Azad Museum | alt= | url=http://www.makaias.gov.in | email= | address=5, Ashraf Mistry Ln, Ballygunge | lat=22.533024 | long=88.356568 | directions=near Ballygunge Military Camp Gate | phone=+91 33 23356623 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 11AM–5PM. Closed on Sa, Su and national holidays | price=Free | wikidata=Q6792417 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=The former home of the Indian freedom activist and the first Education Minister of India, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. Maulana Azad's work interpreting the mystic Sarmad of Prince Dara Shikoh's court is also a cornerstone to the secular tradition of India. The museum is replete with narrations of his life, times, work, personal archives and belongings. }} * {{see | name=Netaji Bhawan | alt=নেতাজি ভবন ''Nētaji Bhaban'' | url=https://www.netaji.org/#/nrb/museums | email= | address=38/2, Elgin Rd (Lala Lajpat Rai Sarani), Bhowanipore | lat=22.537586 | long=88.351246 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2486-8139, +91 33 2486 8070 (fax) | tollfree= | hours=Tu–Su 11AM–5PM, | price=₹20 (adults), ₹10 (children) | wikidata=Q11325387 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A heritage building maintained as a memorial and research centre to the life of the Indian nationalist Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. }} * {{see | name=Tram World | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gariahat | lat=22.52539 | long=88.36532 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=A museum showcasing the 150-year-old heritage of the tram system in Kolkata. }} * {{see | name=Gautam Sen Memorial Boardgame Museum | alt= | url=https://sites.google.com/view/kolkataboardgamemuseum/home | email= | address=Ballygunge Circular Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-12-19 | content=Entry is by invitation or prior appointment only. A collection of ancient and modern board games, ranging from the oldest boardgame, The Royal Game of Ur, to current games such as Settlers of Catan and Grizzled. }} ===Religious attractions=== [[File:A C Avenue 'Birla Temple'.jpg|thumb|Birla Temple]] * {{see | name=Bhowanipore Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Debendra Lal Khan Rd | lat=22.535694 | long=88.337205 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q69265409 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{see | name=Birla Temple | alt=Radha-Krishna Temple | url= | email= | address=2 Queens Park Road, Ashutosh Chowdary Ave | lat=22.5303 | long=88.3648| directions=Ballygunge Phari Bus Stop | phone= | hours=5:30-11AM and 4:30-9PM | price= | content=The most modernly-opulent in Kolkata and worth a visit. The adjoining tree-lined lane '''Queen's Park''' is the most exclusive and fashionable address in the city and is worth a stroll through. Some of the biggest names in the city call it home. A close second is '''Sunny Park''', running parallel to Queen's Park on the other side of the Birla Temple. }} * {{see | name=Kalighat Temple | alt=কালীঘাট মন্দির ''Kālīghāṭ Mandir'' | url=http://kalighattemple.com/ | email= | address=Kali Mandir Rd, Kalighat | lat=22.520278 | long=88.342083 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q535970 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Houses Kolkata's patron deity. According to the legend, when Lord Shiva’s wife Parvati’s body was cut up, one of her fingers fell here. Rebuilt in 1809, this is one of the 51 ''shakti pithas''. }} ==Do== === Cinema halls === * {{do | name=Basusree Cinema | alt= | url=http://basusreecinema.com/ | email= | address=102, SP Mukherjee Rd | lat= | long= | directions=metro: {{station|Kalighat|1}} | phone=+91 33 2455 4808 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=One of the four cinema halls that premiered Satyajit Ray's movie ''Pather Panchali''. While the other halls were later shut down or became inactive, this one is still very active. }} * {{do | name=Bijoli Cinema | alt= | url=https://in.bookmyshow.com/kolkata/cinemas/bijoli-cinema-kolkata/BJLC | email= | address=39, SP Mukherjee Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2455 5382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content= }} * {{do | name=Priya Cinema | alt= | url=http://www.priyaentertainments.com/ | email= | address=95, Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.518 | long=88.3544 | directions=beside Deshapriya Park | phone=+91 33 2464 1313 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7246463 | lastedit=2025-01-04 | content= }} * {{do | name=Menoka Cinema | alt= | url=http://www.menokacinemakolkata.com/Default.aspx | email= | address=5, Sarat Chatterjee Ave | lat= | long= | directions=near Rabindra Sarobar Stadium | phone=+91 33 2466 0417, +91 33 2466 3080 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content= }} ===Clubs and stadiums === * {{do | name=Calcutta Club | alt= | url=https://www.calcuttaclub.org/ | email= | address=241, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.54124 | long=88.3463 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5018923 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=An iconic landmark in Kolkata, representing the elite (''babu'') Bengal with rich history and culture. }} * {{do | name=Calcutta Cricket and Football Club | alt= | url=https://ccfc1792.com/ | email= | address=19/1, Gurusaday Dutta Rd, Ballygunge | lat=22.53346 | long=88.363746 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q11044609 | lastedit=2023-01-24 | content=Founded in 1792, it is the second oldest cricket club in the world after Marylebone Cricket Club. It has arguably the most picturesque cricket ground in Kolkata. }} * {{do | name=Calcutta Cricket Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=~107, Southern Ave, Lake Terrace | lat=22.51274 | long=88.35502 | directions=on the northern lakeshore of the Rabindra Sarobar | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Rabindra Sarobar Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Moira Street, Hindustan Park | lat=22.511667 | long=88.352222 | directions=Sarat Bose Southern Ave Crossing Bus Stop | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7278758 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Multi-use stadium. Can accommodate 40,000 spectators. }} ===Parks=== * {{do | name=Deshapriya Park | alt=দেশপ্রিয় পার্ক ''Deśapriẏa Pārk'' | url= | email= | address=Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.518294 | long=88.353553 | directions=intersection to Sarat Bose Rd; {{station|Deshapriya Park|bus|tram}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=| wikidata=Q5264153 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Although it looks like an ordinary playground for most of the time, it is the host of one of the biggest celebrations of [[Durga Puja]] in South Kolkata. It also contains one of the tallest permanently-installed Durga statues of the city. }} * {{do | name=Park Circus Maidan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Suhrawardy Ave | lat=22.543062 | long=88.369124 | directions=suburban: {{station|Park Circus|circular|sealdah south}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68935124 | lastedit=2022-12-08 | content=Park Circus Maidan becomes a focal point during the winter—especially in December and January—as it becomes home to circus companies and kids all over the city flock to the maidan to watch circus. }} == Buy == * {{buy | name=Fancy Market | alt= | url= | email=| address=~22, Karl Marx Sarani, Kidderpore | lat=22.5391 | long=88.3233 | directions= | phone=| hours= | price=| content=Consumer goods market - lots of foreign goods. Fancy items, fancy prices. Beware of fakes. }} * {{buy | name=Gariahat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.5191 | long=88.3616 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5523285 | lastedit=2022-09-28 | content=Spread along Rashbehari Avenue, Gariahat Road and the lanes in the area, Gariahat is one of the largest markets in Kolkata, where one can find shops ranging from branded showrooms and malls to numerous smaller shops. The shops sell a variety of saris, clothes, jewellery, electronic goods, furniture and whatnot. The makeshift shops along the footpaths, popular as hawkers, sell everything – crockery, cutlery, decorative items and utilities. It has numerous eateries and street food joints. Vegetables, fruits, flowers, betel leaves, fish, eggs and meat are the main groceries available. You can buy branded and non-branded clothing from Western like tees and jeans to traditional Indian such as dupattas and sarees, along with bags and purses. }} * {{buy | name=Jadu Babu's Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=31, Asutosh Mukherjee Rd | lat=22.533763 | long=88.346469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, fish, meat, eggs, etc., available }} * {{buy | name=Lake Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=104, Rash Behari Ave | lat=22.516746 | long=88.348325 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=One of the largest markets in Kolkata. Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, flowers, fish, meat, eggs, etc., available. It is the best place in South Kolkata for flowers, flower bouquets, floral rings etc. }} * {{buy | name=Lansdowne Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=65/1 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.528431 | long=88.351812 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, flowers, fish, meat, eggs, etc., available. Old market, popular for both variety and fair prices. }} * {{buy | name=Machhli Baba | alt= | url=http://machhlibaba.com/ | email= | address=24A, Lake View Rd, Ground Floor | lat=22.515583 | long=88.355867 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Different varieties of fish starting from single piece to large quantities }} === Malls === * {{buy | name=Forum Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=10/3 Elgin Rd | lat=22.5381 | long=88.3512 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-9PM, M 1-8PM, closed Sunday | price= | wikidata=Q5473038 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=There is an appealing range of upmarket shops housed across six floors. Forum is a centre of fashion and there are many beautiful clothes, accessories, and shoes to choose from. For those with nostalgia about things foreign, can find shops selling Belgian chocolates, English biscuits and so on. Restaurants and bars include [http://www.speciality.co.in/oh_calcutta/index.html Oh! Calcutta] ({{phone|+91 33 22837161}}, mains from ₹150, excellent Bengali food), Cafe Mezzuna, Ar-Han-Thai (Lebanese & Thai food), Spaghetti Kitchen (Italian food), Starstruck (Chinese, Continental, North Indian, Mughlai). }} * {{buy | name=Lake Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kavi Bharati Sarani | lat=22.516546 | long=88.349125 | directions=off 104, Rash Behari Ave | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Highend shopping mall, branded shops, food court and restaurants, multiplex, offices and hotel. }} * {{buy | name=Merlin Homeland Mall | alt= | url=https://merlinhomelandmall.wordpress.com/ | email= | address=18B Asutosh Mukherjee Rd, Bhowanipore | lat=22.5392 | long=88.3460 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Homeland Mall is one stop mall for house building materials and interior decor items. E Zone Electronic Mall is next to it. }} * {{buy | name=Quest Mall | alt= | url=http://questmall.in/ | email= | address=33, Syed Amir Ali Ave, Park Circus | lat=22.539083 | long=88.365594 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17069862 | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content=Luxury retail, largest apparel store, fine dining, six-screen insignia class multiplex. Restaurants and bars include Chili's and Irish House. }} ==Eat== Major chain restaurants include '''Domino's''' (1/432, Gariahat Rd S ad 62/7, Ballygunge Circular Rd) and '''Haldiram's''' (58, Chowringhee Rd and 24, Ballygunge Park). * {{eat | name=6 Ballygunge Place | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.527863 | long=88.368077 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24603922, +91 99 03975614 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q23043404| wikipedia=6 Ballygunge Place | content=Bengali & North Indian cuisine. Buffet lunch ₹375 (Monday to Friday), ₹425 (Saturday). No drinks. }} * {{eat | name=Amrit National Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=43 Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.525894 | long=88.325416 | directions=Mominpur Bus Stop | phone=+91 33 66343401 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Budget restaurant. Biryani and Mughlai food. }} * {{eat | name=Arsalan | alt= | url= | email= | address=28, Circus Ave | lat=22.541984 | long=88.363626 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22844010, +91 33 22848556 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=ارسلان ریسٹورنٹ کلکت .jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Biryani and Mughlai food. Popular items: firni, mutton kosha, mutton boti kebab, chicken chatpata, mutton biryani, egg chicken roll. They have seven branches: 1. Chinar Park, 2. Anandapur (opposite Calcutta International School), 3. Hatibagan, 4. Park Street Area (Muzaffar Ahmed Road), 5. Park Circus 7-point crossing, 6. New Alipore, and 7. Jessore Road, Bangur. }} * {{eat | name=Azad Hind | alt= | url= | email= | address=12/1, Ballygunge Circular Rd | lat=22.535884 | long=88.356996 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24866475, +91 33 24864742 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Virtually open round the clock | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=North Indian cuisine, street food. Popular items: chicken bharta, tandoori chicken, tandoori aloo, butter naan, dal tadka, rolls, panneer butter masala. No alchohol. }} * {{eat | name=Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick | alt= | url=https://www.balarammullick.com | email=balarammullicksweets@gmail.com | address=2, Puddapukur Rd, Bhowanipore | lat=22.533284 | long=88.346956 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2486 9490, +91 33 2454 0281 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-22 | content=Offers a wide range of sweets and snacks. Famous for its baked rosogolla. }} * {{eat | name=Balwant Singh's Eating House | alt= | url= | email= | address=10/B, Harish Mukherjee Rd | lat=22.537784 | long=88.344186 | directions= | phone=+91 9903975361 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=closed 3–4AM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=North Indian vegetarian cuisine. Popular items: Tea, lassi, paneer tikka, samosa, dudh cola, kesar chai. No alcohol. }} * {{eat | name=Banana Leaf | alt=A unit of Komala Vilas | url= | email= | address=74-75, Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.517243 | long=88.349757 | directions=near Lake Market | phone=+91 33 24641960, +91 33 24640941 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=South Indian vegetarian snacks and thali meal. Great food. Authentic South Indian taste - very different from the road side stalls catering to Bengali taste. }} * {{eat | name=Bhojohori Manna | alt= | url=http://bhojohorimanna.com/ | email= | address= | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | phone=+91 33 24663941, +91 33 24667686 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic and traditional Bengali food. Fish and vegetarian speciality - shukto, mochar ghonto, chital macher muitha, chingri macher malaikari, kankra (crab), et al. Mutton Dak Bungalow has become a trade mark. No hard drinks. }} ** {{eat | name=18/1A Hindustan Rd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.520263 | long=88.360997 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-28 | content= }} ** {{eat | name=9/18 Ekdalia Rd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.521063 | long=88.366577 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-28 | content=Mostly for takeaway service. Food also served. }} ** {{eat | name=23A Priyanath Mallick St | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.524354 | long=88.347536 | directions=near Hazra More | phone=+91 33 24545922 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Bijoli Grill | alt= | url=http://www.bijoligrill.com/kolkata.php | email= | phone=+91 33 4003 6606 | tollfree= | fax= | content=Seafood, Chinese and Bengali cuisine. }} ** {{eat | name=38, SP Mukherjee Rd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.527084 | long=88.345656 | directions= | hours= Noon-10PM | price= | content= }} ** {{eat | name=124B, Southern Ave | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.514263 | long=88.363237 | directions= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Coastal Macha | alt= | url= | email= | address=55, Southern Ave | lat=22.513263 | long=88.349337 | directions= | phone=+91 33 3099 1254 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=Indian seafood, South Indian, Keralian, Maharashtrian. }} * {{eat | name=Chinese Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=P 21 Old Ballygunge Rd | lat=22.528863 | long=88.365987 | directions=at Ballygunge Phari crossing | phone=+91 33 2283 3093, +91 9836627306 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:30PM | price= | content=Chinese and Thai cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=The Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ballygunge Phari | lat=22.528353 | long=88.365777 | directions= | phone=+91 8017779607, +91 9903000353 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM-11PM | price= | content=North Indian and Chinese cuisine. Try out the Punjabi speciality;''makka di roti'' and ''sarson di saag'' }} * {{eat | name=Drop In | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ground Floor, Ideal Towers, 57, Block A, Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.531794 | long=88.326716 | directions= | phone=+91 9073309928, +91 9073309929 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7:30AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=Vegetarian restaurant. Indian and Chinese cuisine. Popular items: lassi, naan, paneer tikka masala, roti, thali. }} * {{eat | name=Fung Shway | alt= | url= | email= | address=122A, Southern Ave | lat=22.514163 | long=88.362457 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4065 9510 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=Thai, Chinese, etc. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram | alt= | url= | email= | address=84A, Shambhunath Pandit St | lat=22.538084 | long=88.345996 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2455 2357 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=One of the oldest sweet meat sellers in Kolkata, with a chain of outlets across the city. It is a revered name in the arena of Bengali sweets. Take away only. }} * {{eat | name=Gupta Brothers | alt= | url= | email= | address=82A, Shambhunath Pandit Rd | lat=22.537984 | long=88.345206 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2455 6328, +91 33 2454 8716 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=Sweets and casual dining. Popular items: vegetarian thali, gulab jamun, dahi vada, dhania dosa, kulfi, mango lassi and idli. }} * {{eat | name=Kasturi Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=13/6B Anil Moitro Rd | lat=22.524313 | long=88.368597 | directions=near Patha Bhaban Montessori School | phone=+91 33 2440 0039, +91 8334922228 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:45AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Dhakai cuisine. Speciality - bhetki paturi, biryani, mochar ghonto, kochu pata chingri bhapa, jhuri alu bhaja, mutton kosha, kosha mangsho. }} * {{eat | name=Khawab | alt= | url= | email= | address=166A, Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.519163 | long=88.352187 | directions=near National High School For Girls | phone=+91 9836033337, +91 9874246629, +91 33 24669695 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hyderabadi Mutton Biryani, Mutton Rogan Josh. }} * {{eat | name=Krystal Chopstick | alt= | url= | email= | address=71 H, Hindustan Park | lat=22.518263 | long=88.361897 | directions=opposite Basanti Devi College | phone=+91 33 4060 3022, +91 9831526118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:30PM | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. No drinks. }} * {{eat | name=Kurry Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=176 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.516143 | long=88.352757 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24661979 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Mexican, Italian and other cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Kwality | alt= | url= | email= | address=2A, Gariahat Rd | lat=22.528063 | long=88.366277 | directions=near Ballygunge Phari crossing | phone=+91 33 2460 9982, +91 33 2460 7079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:45PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=One of the earliest posh restaurants in South Kolkata. Authentic North Indian delicacies. Continental and Chinese also served. Drinks available. Payment in cash only. }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja and Maharani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.516513 | long=88.352387 | directions=near the Rashbehari Ave crossing | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=These are two separate kachori shops, near each other. The footpath in front of the shops is always crowded. Their early morning stocks often get exhausted by around 9AM. They also serve later in the day. Anyone going that way must give it a try. Don't miss the jalebis/malpuas after the kachouri-sabzi. The location shown on the map here is that of Maharani, and Maharaja is a little down the road towards the lakes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworth House, 3A, Guru Saday Dutta Rd | lat=22.536913 | long=88.359477 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2283 7964, +91 9330627506 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30-3PM, 7-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Innovative Chinese food. Grand buffets. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Marco Polo | alt= | url= | email= | address=205 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.514763 | long=88.352657 | directions=near Southern Ave crossing | phone=+91 33 2463 0909 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-11:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Continental and North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Mirch Masala | alt= | url=http://mirch-masala.in/ | email= | address=49/2 Gariahat Rd | lat=22.523184 | long=88.364596 | directions=near Pantaloons | phone=+91 9830644484, +91 33 24618900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Great Punjabi food, also has a Chinese restaurant. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Mitra Cafe | alt= | url=http://mitracafe.co.in/ | email= | address=23/37 Gariahat Rd | lat=22.515563 | long=88.367127 | directions= | phone=+91 90076 95923 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=North Indian fast food. Speciality - fish kaviraji, mutton chops, rolls, pakoda, mutton kaviraji, chowmein, pudding. }} * {{eat | name=Only Alibaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=28A, Syed Amir Ali Ave | lat=22.540784 | long=88.365426 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4070 1109 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-4:30PM, 7-11PM | price= | content=Biryani and Mughlai food. The food has a good taste in the main shop but in their fry king outlet at Baghajatin some items are bad and unpalatable. }} * {{eat | name=Oudh 1590 | alt= | url=http://oudh1590.com/ | email= | address=23/B, Deshapriya Park and also at P-562, Hemanta Mukhopadhyay Sarani (behind Vivekananda Park) | lat=22.518543 | long=88.350257 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Period dining experience - try it out. }} * {{eat | name=Padmaparer Rannaghar | alt= | url= | email= | address=26/4 Gariahat Rd | lat=22.518363 | long=88.365457 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2419 8916 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10PM | price= | lastedit=2018-03-16 | content=Bengali and South Indian cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Pepper Chino | alt= | url= | email= | address=37 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.534064 | long=88.353256 | directions=opposite Lakshmi Narayan Temple | phone=+91 33 6555 2051, +91 7004985103 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-4AM | price= | content=North Indian Continental and Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Prema Vilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=63/1, Lake Market | lat=22.517143 | long=88.348957 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2463 1961 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=South Indian vegetarian. }} * {{eat | name=Sangu Valley Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=6A, SP Mukherjee Rd | lat=22.528454 | long=88.345336 | directions= | phone=+91 9831361928, +91 8583962171 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | content=North Indian, Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=South India Club Canteen | alt= | url=http://calcuttasouthindiaclub.com/ | email= | address=70 B, Hindustan Park | lat=22.518363 | long=88.362757 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24640927 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Budget restaurant. The place is not posh but has tasty food. }} * {{eat | name=Subway | alt= | url= | email= | address=Merlin Homeland, 18B, Asutosh Mukherjee Road | lat=22.536284 | long=88.345586 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4004 7412, +91 33 2454 2234 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=Healthy food, salad, fast foods. Popular items: Sandwiches, Chicken Wrap, Chicken Tikka Sub. No alcohol. }} * {{eat | name=Tamarind | alt= | url= | email= | address=177 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.518513 | long=88.351857 | directions=near Deshapriya Park | phone=+91 33 66343960 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=South Indian mon-vegetarian. Snacks like idli and dosa are not available. Specialised main meal dishes. Enjoy Keralite food, Coorgi dishes et al. }} * {{eat | name=Tangra Kaizen | alt= | url= | email= | address=33B, Sarat Bose Rd, Paddapukur | lat=22.534544 | long=88.353356 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2474 4358 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=Chinese and Thai cuisine. Drinks served. Only cash payment. }} * {{eat | name=Tero Parban | alt= | url= | email= | address=49C Purna Das Rd | lat=22.516863 | long=88.362657 | directions=Near Gol Park | phone=+91 33 2464 0199, +91 9830432175 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:30PM | price= | content=Bengali cuisine with the ambience of a traditional Bengali home. }} * {{eat | name=Zeeshan | alt= | url= | email= | address=17 Syed Amir Ali Ave | lat=22.541384 | long=88.365926 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22806842, +91 9903611112 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-midnight | price= | content=Zeeshan has several outlets mostly for takeaway customers: 1. Deshapriya Park, 2. Kidderpore, 3. Garia, 4. Lake Market Area, 5. Ballygunge, 6. Tollygunge, 7. Esplanade, 8. College Street.<br/>Biryani and Mughlai food. Popular items: biryani, rolls, firni, murg reshmi kabab, mutton tikka, mutton chaap, tandoori chicken. }} * {{eat | name=Zeeshan | alt= | url= | email= | address=187 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.516343 | long=88.352387 | directions=near Deshapriya Park | phone=+91 33 2464 4224, +91 7604066539 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11PM| price= | content=Great Mughlai food, take away only. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mocha | alt= | url= | email= | address=AJC Bose Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Underground | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Hindusthan International | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Fern Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.5209 | long=88.3681 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24407797, +91 9831477704 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komala Vilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=74&75 Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.5170 | long=88.3492| directions= | phone=+91 33 24641960| fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Platinum | alt= | url=http://hotelplatinum.co.in | email= | address=14, Syed Amir Ali Ave | lat=22.5417 | long=88.365696 | directions= | phone=+91 89610 50299 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,360-2,050 | wikidata=Q111123499 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Park Inn | alt= | url=http://en.directrooms.com/hotels/info/1-27-155-80427/ | email= | address=10/1 Tal Bagan Ln | lat= 22.5411| long=88.3683 | directions= | phone= | fax=| price= US$20 for standard double bedded room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sharani Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=71/K Hindustan Park, Gariahat | lat=22.5182 | long=88.3626 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24635717, +91 33 24641999, +91 33 24644971 | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Gariahat Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=19, Garcha Rd, Dover Terrace | lat=22.51879 | long=88.365256 | directions= | phone=+91 72589 86668 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111055215 | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Cornfield Retreat | alt= | url=https://www.kolkatahomestay.com | email=bookings@kolkatahomestay.com | address=8/1C, Cornfield Road | lat=22.52195 | long=88.36857 | directions= | phone=+91 9830 555 145 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹849 | image= | lastedit=2024-10-03 | content=Single, couple and family options. Air-conditioning, fibre-optic WiFi, streaming enabled. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=The Best Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1B, Sushil Sen Rd | lat=22.5363 | long=88.3453 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24549101 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,000-3,000 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=Amenities include air-conditioning, telephone, internet connectivity, TV (Cable), laundry service, housekeeping, room service, continental breakfast. Deluxe Suite (King size Double Bed)/Deluxe Queen (Queen Double Bed)/Deluxe Twin (two single beds) rooms with attached bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Fortuna Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.casafortunahotel.com/ | email=resvn@casafortunahotel.com | address=234/1A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5410 | long=88.3555 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4021 8000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Deluxe single ₹5,000, Deluxe double ₹6,000 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Central Bed & Breakfast | url=http://www.centralbnb.com | email=j@centralbnb.com | address=7th Floor, Lansdowne Court, 5B, Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.54022 | long=88.3544 | directions=near Minto Park | phone=+91 9836465400 | fax= | hours= | price=₹2,699| checkin=Noon | checkout=10AM | content=10-minute drive from Park Street and 1 minute from Minto Park. It’s on the 7th floor of a residential apartment. 4 bedrooms with free WiFi, attached bathrooms, common kitchen. All rooms are air-conditioned. Owners live in the same building. Great location, safe, and 24/7 security. Recommended for backpackers. }} * {{sleep | name=Kalighat Pilgrimage Facilitation Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,000–2,200 per room | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Samilton | alt= | url=http://www.samiltonhotel.com/ | email= | address=35A, Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.5338 | long=88.3532 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40932000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-4,500 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Lee International | alt= | url=https://thesparkhotels.com/hotel_details/hotel-lee-international | email=booking.hotellee@thesparkhotels.com | address=53/D1, Tiljala Rd | lat=22.53889 | long=88.37625 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23431678, +91 33 23431679 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹2,580-4,095 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Mrs. Dam's Guesthouse | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2290 4533 | fax= | hours= | price=₹2000 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Modern, prettily furnished rooms with attached bath, air-con, TV, etc. in a quiet, safe neighborhood. Helpful owner lives in the same building, and is a handy source for tips on what to see/where to go in Kolkata. They also have a great cook, so make sure you try a home-cooked Bengali meal when you're there. }} * {{sleep | name=The Red Carpet | alt= | url= | email= | address=P-399, Keyatala Ln | lat=22.5159 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40086847 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,500 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Blue Chip | alt= | url=http://www.bluechipguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=99/5/13, Dr Amiya Bose Sarani | lat=22.52795 | long=88.36803 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2460 3983 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Basera Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=128C, Southern Ave, Golpark | lat=22.51524 | long=88.36541 | directions= | phone=+91 90515 66883 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content= }} ===Splurge=== *{{sleep | name=Bodhi Tree Boutique Guesthouse | url=http://bodhitree-cal.spaces.live.com | email= | address=48/44, Swiss Park, | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2424 6534 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2424 1598| hours= | price=| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Hindustan International | alt= | url=http://www.hindusthan.com | email= | address=AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5409 | long=88.3506 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹5,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Bengal | alt= | url=https://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-bengal-kolkata/ | email=bengal.calcutta@tajhotels.com | address=34B, Belvedere Rd, Alipore | lat=22.53738 | long=88.33394 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2223 3939, +91 33 6612 3939, +91 33 2223 1193 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2223 1766 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q110942881 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A deluxe hotel and is amongst the top hotels in Kolkata. The restaurants are also open to non-residents. The hotel has 200 rooms and 29 suites, with terracotta statuary and palm-covered atrium lobby. It has fine dining restaurants such as Cal27, Sonargaon, Souk, Chinoiseire and The Chambers, along with an al fresco area and banquet halls. }} * {{sleep | name=Roland Hotel | alt= | url=https://rolandhotel.com | email=info@rolandhotel.com | address=28A, Rowland Rd, Rowland Row, Ballygunge | lat=22.536324 | long=88.354110 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2475-7780 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | image= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content= }} == Connect == * {{listing | name=Kolkata Metropolitan Library | alt= | url= | email= | address=2, Ballygunge Park Rd | lat=22.53425 | long=88.36564 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2287-2004 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content= }} * {{Listing | name=Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture | alt= | url=http://sriramakrishna.org/ | email=rmic@vsnl.com | address=Golpark | lat=22.5149 | long=88.3662 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2464 1307 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7288805 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Houses a bookstore and a library, among other amenities, with Ramakrishna-Vivekananda literature. It has an auditorium and a well-maintained guest house. }} * {{listing | name=Sarat Bose Road Post Office| alt= | url=http://indiapost.gov.in | email= | address=Raja Basanta Roy Rd, Southern Ave, Ballygunge | lat=22.51397 | long=88.35284| directions= | phone=+91 33 2466 3126| hours= | price=| content= }} ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Alipore police station | lat=22.52825 | long=88.33623 | phone=+91 33 24791021 }} * {{listing | name=Ballygunge police station | lat=22.53022 | long=88.35395 | phone=+91 33 24543179, +91 33 24542100, +91 33 24862601 }} * {{listing | name=Bhowanipore police station | lat=22.52683 | long=88.34598 | phone=+91 33 24558092, +91 33 24541100, +91 33 24862711 }} * {{listing | name=Gariahat police station | lat=22.52126 | long=88.36418 | phone=+91 33 24863702 }} ==Go next== {{routebox | placename=South Kolkata | image1=Baruipur–Namkhana Line.svg | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=N | majorl1=END | minorl1= | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Bakkhali]] | minorr1=[[Jaynagar Majilpur]] | image2=Kolkata Circular Railway.svg | imagesize2=100 | directionl2=N | majorl2=[[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] | minorl2=[[Kolkata/Maidan|Maidan]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Kolkata/Far North|Far North Kolkata]] | minorr2=[[Kolkata/East|East Kolkata]] | image3=Kolkata Metro Blue Line text icon.svg | imagesize3=100 | directionl3=N | majorl3=[[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]] | minorl3=[[Kolkata/Central|Central Kolkata]] | directionr3=S | majorr3=END | minorr3= }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.530|88.342|zoom=14}} pouwfzbs4f0pksiwhxx89xme29cyfrw 5090810 5090803 2025-07-10T13:33:38Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Budget */ 5090810 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Rashbehari avenue and SP Mukherjee road crossing(Kolkata) (cropped).jpg|pgname=South Kolkata}} [[File:Alipore_Zoological_Garden_-_Kolkata_2011-05-03_2548.JPG|thumb|Entrance of Alipore Zoo]] [[File:Kalighat_temple_with_bazzar.JPG|thumb|Kalighat Temple]] '''South Kolkata''' (দক্ষিণ কলকাতা ''Dakṣiṇ Kalkātā'') is a posh and new area of [[Kolkata]]. It is less congested and more modern than most parts of the city. You will find more flat blocks and green patches here compared to the North. ==Understand== This district covers the neighbourhoods south of Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Road (AJC Bose Road, previously Lower Circular Road), west of Sealdah South lines, and north of the [[Kolkata/Southern Suburbs|Southern Suburbs]]. The major neighbourhoods in South Kolkata include Alipore, Ballygunge, Bhowanipore, Chetla,Dhakuria, Gariahat, Kalighat, Kidderpore, Majerhat, Park Circus, and Taratala. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.5265|88.346|height=520|width=620|zoom=14|name=Map of South Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} {{Mapmask|22.5159,88.3717|22.5293,88.3729|22.5294,88.3737|22.5292,88.3747|22.5295,88.3748|22.5302,88.3747|22.5313,88.3748|22.5330,88.3749|22.5331,88.3748|22.5333,88.3746|22.5334,88.3745|22.5339,88.3745|22.5343,88.3744|22.5344,88.3746|22.5344,88.3747|22.5345,88.3748|22.5345,88.3749|22.5344,88.3758|22.5347,88.3761|22.5347,88.3763|22.5344,88.3764|22.5342,88.3766|22.5340,88.3767|22.5339,88.3770|22.5336,88.3770|22.5335,88.3771|22.5335,88.3773|22.5333,88.3786|22.5334,88.3787|22.5334,88.3790|22.5334,88.3792|22.5336,88.3796|22.5341,88.3799|22.5342,88.3799|22.5350,88.3797|22.5351,88.3797|22.5356,88.3799|22.5360,88.3800|22.5374,88.3795|22.5379,88.3794|22.5380,88.3793|22.5382,88.3789|22.5384,88.3785|22.5385,88.3785|22.5392,88.3787|22.5391,88.3776|22.5392,88.3760|22.5390,88.3752|22.5391,88.3737|22.5513,88.3750|22.5513,88.3749|22.5514,88.3746|22.5515,88.3743|22.5516,88.3741|22.5517,88.3734|22.5517,88.3732|22.5518,88.3724|22.5520,88.3724|22.5521,88.3720|22.5523,88.3715|22.5513,88.3712|22.5449,88.3705|22.5434,88.3665|22.5433,88.3665|22.5432,88.3665|22.5431,88.3665|22.5430,88.3664|22.5430,88.3663|22.5429,88.3662|22.5429,88.3661|22.5430,88.3660|22.5430,88.3659|22.5431,88.3658|22.5432,88.3658|22.5434,88.3658|22.5434,88.3658|22.5435,88.3658|22.5467,88.3614|22.5410,88.3593|22.5416,88.3473|22.5417,88.3459|22.5415,88.3435|22.5399,88.3370|22.5399,88.3365|22.5400,88.3361|22.5407,88.3347|22.5392,88.3338|22.5394,88.3336|22.5396,88.3334|22.5398,88.3331|22.5404,88.3328|22.5407,88.3325|22.5409,88.3323|22.5411,88.3320|22.5412,88.3316|22.5412,88.3311|22.5412,88.3307|22.5412,88.3302|22.5412,88.3298|22.5412,88.3294|22.5414,88.3291|22.5422,88.3281|22.5442,88.3267|22.5461,88.3257|22.5467,88.3250|22.5470,88.3248|22.5473,88.3246|22.5477,88.3245|22.5479,88.3245|22.5481,88.3246|22.5488,88.3250|22.5491,88.3251|22.5494,88.3251|22.5500,88.3250|22.5503,88.3249|22.5534,88.3223|22.5508,88.3187|22.5497,88.3130|22.5493,88.3085|22.5495,88.3047|22.5521,88.2957|22.5522,88.2937|22.5526,88.2911|22.5482,88.2892|22.5480,88.2905|22.5470,88.2927|22.5463,88.2944|22.5461,88.2945|22.5458,88.2946|22.5454,88.2946|22.5445,88.2945|22.5439,88.2945|22.5438,88.2945|22.5436,88.2946|22.5435,88.2939|22.5435,88.2938|22.5435,88.2937|22.5433,88.2935|22.5433,88.2934|22.5430,88.2933|22.5429,88.2932|22.5429,88.2932|22.5429,88.2929|22.5429,88.2926|22.5430,88.2923|22.5431,88.2918|22.5432,88.2915|22.5432,88.2915|22.5435,88.2913|22.5435,88.2912|22.5437,88.2905|22.5436,88.2905|22.5435,88.2904|22.5435,88.2903|22.5435,88.2900|22.5432,88.2900|22.5428,88.2901|22.5427,88.2905|22.5411,88.2907|22.5408,88.2908|22.5405,88.2910|22.5403,88.2919|22.5399,88.2919|22.5387,88.2916|22.5386,88.2933|22.5320,88.2916|22.5312,88.2915|22.5238,88.2911|22.5225,88.2912|22.5215,88.2915|22.5205,88.2918|22.5199,88.2921|22.5173,88.2915|22.5163,88.2923|22.5166,88.2930|22.5168,88.2938|22.5169,88.2945|22.5171,88.2970|22.5172,88.2976|22.5173,88.2979|22.5170,88.2987|22.5169,88.2991|22.5150,88.3007|22.5142,88.3016|22.5141,88.3028|22.5138,88.3042|22.5131,88.3057|22.5122,88.3079|22.5120,88.3077|22.5118,88.3077|22.5118,88.3079|22.5118,88.3079|22.5118,88.3080|22.5117,88.3085|22.5115,88.3092|22.5106,88.3139|22.5105,88.3143|22.5105,88.3148|22.5104,88.3151|22.5104,88.3152|22.5104,88.3153|22.5104,88.3157|22.5104,88.3159|22.5102,88.3166|22.5099,88.3180|22.5098,88.3182|22.5091,88.3209|22.5132,88.3224|22.5184,88.3237|22.5103,88.3359|22.5098,88.3367|22.5094,88.3378|22.5092,88.3387|22.5097,88.3422|22.5095,88.3434|22.5083,88.3457|22.5080,88.3463|22.5079,88.3468|22.5077,88.3484|22.5077,88.3500|22.5078,88.3509|22.5102,88.3657|22.5104,88.3666|22.5107,88.3675|22.5113,88.3685|22.5121,88.3695|22.5129,88.3702|22.5135,88.3707|22.5145,88.3712|22.5159,88.3717}} South Kolkata can be easily reached from Central Kolkata easily by bus, taxi or metro railway. The number of buses is slightly low from the North, but the metro and tram are always available. There also are bus and metro links from further east and south. ===By bus=== Like other parts of the city, buses have the most extensive coverage, and is inexpensive. ===By metro=== South Kolkata is mainly served by metro line {{rint|kolkata|1}}, which runs across Ashutosh Mukherjee Road and SP Mukherjee Road. This is useful to get in here from northern and southeastern parts of the city, though you have to take a car, bus, or rickshaw to get to places like Ballygunge and Dhakuria. Line {{rint|kolkata|3}} begins from Majerhat and runs across Diamond Harbour Road, in the [[Kolkata/Southern Suburbs|Southern Suburbs]]. ===By train=== {{rint|kolkata|circular}} runs across this district, from Ballygunge to Khiddirpur, which is useful to get here from northern parts of the city. There are also two junction stations for local trains, both of which are useful for people from the [[Kolkata/Southern Suburbs|Southern Suburbs]] or [[South 24 Parganas]]. * {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Ballygunge|circular|sealdah south}}|wikidata=Q55639257}} * {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Majerhat|3|circular|sealdah south}}|wikidata=Q20718005}} ==See== [[File:Belvedere Building - Indian National Library - Belvedere Estate - Kolkata 2014-05-02 4742.JPG|thumb|National Library of India]] [[File:Rabindra Sarovar view.jpg|thumb|Rabindra Sarobar]] * {{see | name=Alipore Zoo | alt=আলিপুর চিড়িয়াখানা ''Ālipur Ciṛiẏākhānā'' | url=http://www.kolkatazoo.in/ | email=director@kolkatazoo.in | address=No.2 Alipore Rd, Alipore | lat=22.535913 | long=88.332053 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2479 1150 | tollfree= | hours=F–W 9AM–5PM, aquarium 10:30AM–5PM | price=Zoo ₹20, aquarium ₹5, video photography ₹250 per hour | wikidata=Q3346440 | lastedit=2023-04-14 | content=One of the most famous zoological gardens in Eastern India. It was once notorious for its cross-breeding experiments between lions and tigers to produce strains like ''tigons'', ''ligers'' and ''litigons''. It was home to Advaita, the longest-lived animal in the world, who died in March 2006. The other success story of the zoo was a live birth of the rare Sumatran rhinoceros in 1889. The lakes within are a favourite retreat for migratory Siberian birds. }} * {{see | name=Agri Horticultural Garden | alt= | url=http://www.ahsi.in/ | email= | address=1, Alipore Rd | lat=22.5282 | long=88.3333 | directions=south from National Library, {{km|0.8}} from Remount Road railway station | phone=+91 33 2479 1713 | tollfree= | hours=7–11AM and 1:30–5:00PM, closed on W upto 11AM and Th | price= | wikidata=Q4693837 | lastedit=2022-10-08 | content=Founded by William Carey in 1820, it is a lush environ owned and managed by the Agri Horticultural Society of India. The venue for exotic plant and flower exhibitions, it is spread over 21 acres comprising main lawns and informal gardens and children park, and has many rare and tropical plants. }} * {{see | name=Dhanadhanya Auditorium | alt=ধনধান্য ''Dhanadhānya''; variously spelt as Dhanadhanye or Dhonodhanno | url= | email= | address=Thackeray Rd | lat=22.53036 | long=88.33946 | directions=off Debendra Lal Khan Rd, opposite Presidency Jail | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q118896876 | lastedit=2024-12-06 | content=An auditorium shaped like a humongous conch-shell (শাঁখ ''śā̃kh''), an example of mimetic or novelty architecture in India. Inaugurated on April 2023, the building has 6 floors containing guest house, restaurant, cafeteria, VIP lounge, media lounge and a convention centre. It hosts various cultural programmes and is also a venue for national and international trade fairs. }} * {{see | name=Indenture Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kidderpore Dock | lat=22.54831 | long=88.31886 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Indenture Memorial, Kidderepore.jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=A memorial dedicated to the 1.6 million Indian workers who were transported to labour in European colonies. The indenture system was a substitute for slavery, which was abolished in many European countries by the 19th century. This resulted to the increasing presence of Indians abroad, especially in Africa, Southeast Asia, the Caribbean and the Pacific. }} * {{see | name=Kalighat Home for the Dying | alt=নির্মল হৃদয় ''Nirmal Hr̥daẏ'' | url= | email= | address=Kalighat Rd | lat=22.520306 | long=88.341611 | directions=next door to the Kalighat Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3342122 | lastedit=2024-12-06 | content=A hospice for the sick, destitute and the dying established by Mother Teresa. }} * {{see | name=India Government Mint | alt=Calcutta Mint | url=http://igmkolkata.spmcil.com/Interface/Home.aspx | email= | address=Taratala | lat=22.5155 | long=88.3212 | directions=south of {{station|Majerhat|3|circular|sealdah south}} | phone=+91 33 2401 4132 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6019316 | lastedit=2024-12-06 | content=Though the mint dates back to 1757, the present building was built from the 1930s to the 1952. }} * {{see | name=National Library of India | alt=জাতীয় গ্রন্থাগার ''Jātīẏa Granthāgār'', previously Belvedere House | url=http://www.nationallibrary.gov.in/ | email=nldirector@rediffmail.com | address=Belvedere Rd, Alipore | lat=22.533206 | long=88.333318 | directions=near Alipore Zoo, 1.3 km E of {{station|Netaji Bhavan|blue}} | phone=+91 33 2248-7831,+91-33-2479 1382,+91-33-2479 1383,+91-33-2479 1384,+91-33-2479 1385,+91-33-2479 1386,+91-33-2479 1387,+91-33-2479 2467 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2479-1462 | hours=M-F 9AM-8PM; Sa Su, holidays: 9:30AM-6PM | price= | wikidata=Q619913 | lastedit=2022-10-08 | content=This is a stately mansion. Once home of the British Viceroys, Belvedere House is now the National Library. The oldest library in India with a huge collection, including some rarities. It houses over a million books and is the biggest in India. }} * {{see | name=Nizam Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=234/4, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5409 | long=88.35106 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39089723 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A heritage building constructed in 1933. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Sarobar | alt=রবীন্দ্র সরোবর ''Rabīndra Sarōbar'' | url= | email= | address=Southern Ave (Dr. Meghnad Saha Sarani), Dhakuria | lat=22.511016 | long=88.359706 | directions=local: {{station|Lake Gardens|city=kolkata|circular|sealdah south}}; metro: {{station|Rabindra Sarobar|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1651774 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A large open lake and park area housing boating clubs, an open air theatre and eateries. The rowing regatta events are held here. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Alipore Museum | alt=previously Alipore Central Jail | url= | email= | address=17, Judges Court Rd, Alipore | lat=22.525275 | long=88.339866 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4726823 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=A museum dedicated to the [[Indian independence movement]], especially its violent faction. It was a prison during British times used to arrest freedom activists like Sri Aurobindo and Subhas Chandra Bose. }} * {{see | name=Birla Industrial & Technological Museum | alt= | url=https://bitm.gov.in/ | email= | address=19A, Gurusaday Rd | lat=22.534817 | long=88.363361 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22877241, +91 33 22877242, +91 33 22877243 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM–5:30PM | price=₹15; special presentations are charged extra | wikidata=Q3532605 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Inaugurated in 1959 as the first popular science museum in Asia. It is a modern museum with lots of interesting artefacts, shows, events and activities, primarily popular with school-going children. Its collection of old gramophones, sound recorders, telephones, steam engines, road rollers, and other industrial machinery of the period 1880–1950 is very significant. It also actively organises summer camps, awareness programs and astronomy observations for school children. The exhibitions, many of them demanding you to take an active part, can compete with one you could visit in countries like the United States. }} * {{see | name=Centre of International Modern Art | alt=CIMA | url=https://www.cimaartindia.com/ | email=cima.gallery2011@gmail.com | address=Sunny Towers, 43 Ashutosh Chowdhury Ave | lat=22.531512 | long=88.362627 | directions=close to the Birla Temple | phone=+91 33 2485-8509, +91 33 2485 8717 | tollfree= | hours=M 3–7PM, Tu–Sa 11AM–7PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q107208118 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=A small museum showing modern artworks. }} * {{see | name=Maulana Azad Museum | alt= | url=http://www.makaias.gov.in | email= | address=5, Ashraf Mistry Ln, Ballygunge | lat=22.533024 | long=88.356568 | directions=near Ballygunge Military Camp Gate | phone=+91 33 23356623 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 11AM–5PM. Closed on Sa, Su and national holidays | price=Free | wikidata=Q6792417 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=The former home of the Indian freedom activist and the first Education Minister of India, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. Maulana Azad's work interpreting the mystic Sarmad of Prince Dara Shikoh's court is also a cornerstone to the secular tradition of India. The museum is replete with narrations of his life, times, work, personal archives and belongings. }} * {{see | name=Netaji Bhawan | alt=নেতাজি ভবন ''Nētaji Bhaban'' | url=https://www.netaji.org/#/nrb/museums | email= | address=38/2, Elgin Rd (Lala Lajpat Rai Sarani), Bhowanipore | lat=22.537586 | long=88.351246 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2486-8139, +91 33 2486 8070 (fax) | tollfree= | hours=Tu–Su 11AM–5PM, | price=₹20 (adults), ₹10 (children) | wikidata=Q11325387 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A heritage building maintained as a memorial and research centre to the life of the Indian nationalist Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. }} * {{see | name=Tram World | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gariahat | lat=22.52539 | long=88.36532 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=A museum showcasing the 150-year-old heritage of the tram system in Kolkata. }} * {{see | name=Gautam Sen Memorial Boardgame Museum | alt= | url=https://sites.google.com/view/kolkataboardgamemuseum/home | email= | address=Ballygunge Circular Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-12-19 | content=Entry is by invitation or prior appointment only. A collection of ancient and modern board games, ranging from the oldest boardgame, The Royal Game of Ur, to current games such as Settlers of Catan and Grizzled. }} ===Religious attractions=== [[File:A C Avenue 'Birla Temple'.jpg|thumb|Birla Temple]] * {{see | name=Bhowanipore Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Debendra Lal Khan Rd | lat=22.535694 | long=88.337205 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q69265409 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{see | name=Birla Temple | alt=Radha-Krishna Temple | url= | email= | address=2 Queens Park Road, Ashutosh Chowdary Ave | lat=22.5303 | long=88.3648| directions=Ballygunge Phari Bus Stop | phone= | hours=5:30-11AM and 4:30-9PM | price= | content=The most modernly-opulent in Kolkata and worth a visit. The adjoining tree-lined lane '''Queen's Park''' is the most exclusive and fashionable address in the city and is worth a stroll through. Some of the biggest names in the city call it home. A close second is '''Sunny Park''', running parallel to Queen's Park on the other side of the Birla Temple. }} * {{see | name=Kalighat Temple | alt=কালীঘাট মন্দির ''Kālīghāṭ Mandir'' | url=http://kalighattemple.com/ | email= | address=Kali Mandir Rd, Kalighat | lat=22.520278 | long=88.342083 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q535970 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Houses Kolkata's patron deity. According to the legend, when Lord Shiva’s wife Parvati’s body was cut up, one of her fingers fell here. Rebuilt in 1809, this is one of the 51 ''shakti pithas''. }} ==Do== === Cinema halls === * {{do | name=Basusree Cinema | alt= | url=http://basusreecinema.com/ | email= | address=102, SP Mukherjee Rd | lat= | long= | directions=metro: {{station|Kalighat|1}} | phone=+91 33 2455 4808 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=One of the four cinema halls that premiered Satyajit Ray's movie ''Pather Panchali''. While the other halls were later shut down or became inactive, this one is still very active. }} * {{do | name=Bijoli Cinema | alt= | url=https://in.bookmyshow.com/kolkata/cinemas/bijoli-cinema-kolkata/BJLC | email= | address=39, SP Mukherjee Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2455 5382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content= }} * {{do | name=Priya Cinema | alt= | url=http://www.priyaentertainments.com/ | email= | address=95, Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.518 | long=88.3544 | directions=beside Deshapriya Park | phone=+91 33 2464 1313 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7246463 | lastedit=2025-01-04 | content= }} * {{do | name=Menoka Cinema | alt= | url=http://www.menokacinemakolkata.com/Default.aspx | email= | address=5, Sarat Chatterjee Ave | lat= | long= | directions=near Rabindra Sarobar Stadium | phone=+91 33 2466 0417, +91 33 2466 3080 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content= }} ===Clubs and stadiums === * {{do | name=Calcutta Club | alt= | url=https://www.calcuttaclub.org/ | email= | address=241, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.54124 | long=88.3463 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5018923 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=An iconic landmark in Kolkata, representing the elite (''babu'') Bengal with rich history and culture. }} * {{do | name=Calcutta Cricket and Football Club | alt= | url=https://ccfc1792.com/ | email= | address=19/1, Gurusaday Dutta Rd, Ballygunge | lat=22.53346 | long=88.363746 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q11044609 | lastedit=2023-01-24 | content=Founded in 1792, it is the second oldest cricket club in the world after Marylebone Cricket Club. It has arguably the most picturesque cricket ground in Kolkata. }} * {{do | name=Calcutta Cricket Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=~107, Southern Ave, Lake Terrace | lat=22.51274 | long=88.35502 | directions=on the northern lakeshore of the Rabindra Sarobar | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Rabindra Sarobar Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Moira Street, Hindustan Park | lat=22.511667 | long=88.352222 | directions=Sarat Bose Southern Ave Crossing Bus Stop | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7278758 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Multi-use stadium. Can accommodate 40,000 spectators. }} ===Parks=== * {{do | name=Deshapriya Park | alt=দেশপ্রিয় পার্ক ''Deśapriẏa Pārk'' | url= | email= | address=Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.518294 | long=88.353553 | directions=intersection to Sarat Bose Rd; {{station|Deshapriya Park|bus|tram}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=| wikidata=Q5264153 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Although it looks like an ordinary playground for most of the time, it is the host of one of the biggest celebrations of [[Durga Puja]] in South Kolkata. It also contains one of the tallest permanently-installed Durga statues of the city. }} * {{do | name=Park Circus Maidan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Suhrawardy Ave | lat=22.543062 | long=88.369124 | directions=suburban: {{station|Park Circus|circular|sealdah south}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68935124 | lastedit=2022-12-08 | content=Park Circus Maidan becomes a focal point during the winter—especially in December and January—as it becomes home to circus companies and kids all over the city flock to the maidan to watch circus. }} == Buy == * {{buy | name=Fancy Market | alt= | url= | email=| address=~22, Karl Marx Sarani, Kidderpore | lat=22.5391 | long=88.3233 | directions= | phone=| hours= | price=| content=Consumer goods market - lots of foreign goods. Fancy items, fancy prices. Beware of fakes. }} * {{buy | name=Gariahat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.5191 | long=88.3616 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5523285 | lastedit=2022-09-28 | content=Spread along Rashbehari Avenue, Gariahat Road and the lanes in the area, Gariahat is one of the largest markets in Kolkata, where one can find shops ranging from branded showrooms and malls to numerous smaller shops. The shops sell a variety of saris, clothes, jewellery, electronic goods, furniture and whatnot. The makeshift shops along the footpaths, popular as hawkers, sell everything – crockery, cutlery, decorative items and utilities. It has numerous eateries and street food joints. Vegetables, fruits, flowers, betel leaves, fish, eggs and meat are the main groceries available. You can buy branded and non-branded clothing from Western like tees and jeans to traditional Indian such as dupattas and sarees, along with bags and purses. }} * {{buy | name=Jadu Babu's Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=31, Asutosh Mukherjee Rd | lat=22.533763 | long=88.346469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, fish, meat, eggs, etc., available }} * {{buy | name=Lake Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=104, Rash Behari Ave | lat=22.516746 | long=88.348325 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=One of the largest markets in Kolkata. Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, flowers, fish, meat, eggs, etc., available. It is the best place in South Kolkata for flowers, flower bouquets, floral rings etc. }} * {{buy | name=Lansdowne Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=65/1 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.528431 | long=88.351812 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, flowers, fish, meat, eggs, etc., available. Old market, popular for both variety and fair prices. }} * {{buy | name=Machhli Baba | alt= | url=http://machhlibaba.com/ | email= | address=24A, Lake View Rd, Ground Floor | lat=22.515583 | long=88.355867 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Different varieties of fish starting from single piece to large quantities }} === Malls === * {{buy | name=Forum Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=10/3 Elgin Rd | lat=22.5381 | long=88.3512 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-9PM, M 1-8PM, closed Sunday | price= | wikidata=Q5473038 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=There is an appealing range of upmarket shops housed across six floors. Forum is a centre of fashion and there are many beautiful clothes, accessories, and shoes to choose from. For those with nostalgia about things foreign, can find shops selling Belgian chocolates, English biscuits and so on. Restaurants and bars include [http://www.speciality.co.in/oh_calcutta/index.html Oh! Calcutta] ({{phone|+91 33 22837161}}, mains from ₹150, excellent Bengali food), Cafe Mezzuna, Ar-Han-Thai (Lebanese & Thai food), Spaghetti Kitchen (Italian food), Starstruck (Chinese, Continental, North Indian, Mughlai). }} * {{buy | name=Lake Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kavi Bharati Sarani | lat=22.516546 | long=88.349125 | directions=off 104, Rash Behari Ave | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Highend shopping mall, branded shops, food court and restaurants, multiplex, offices and hotel. }} * {{buy | name=Merlin Homeland Mall | alt= | url=https://merlinhomelandmall.wordpress.com/ | email= | address=18B Asutosh Mukherjee Rd, Bhowanipore | lat=22.5392 | long=88.3460 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Homeland Mall is one stop mall for house building materials and interior decor items. E Zone Electronic Mall is next to it. }} * {{buy | name=Quest Mall | alt= | url=http://questmall.in/ | email= | address=33, Syed Amir Ali Ave, Park Circus | lat=22.539083 | long=88.365594 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17069862 | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content=Luxury retail, largest apparel store, fine dining, six-screen insignia class multiplex. Restaurants and bars include Chili's and Irish House. }} ==Eat== Major chain restaurants include '''Domino's''' (1/432, Gariahat Rd S ad 62/7, Ballygunge Circular Rd) and '''Haldiram's''' (58, Chowringhee Rd and 24, Ballygunge Park). * {{eat | name=6 Ballygunge Place | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.527863 | long=88.368077 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24603922, +91 99 03975614 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q23043404| wikipedia=6 Ballygunge Place | content=Bengali & North Indian cuisine. Buffet lunch ₹375 (Monday to Friday), ₹425 (Saturday). No drinks. }} * {{eat | name=Amrit National Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=43 Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.525894 | long=88.325416 | directions=Mominpur Bus Stop | phone=+91 33 66343401 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Budget restaurant. Biryani and Mughlai food. }} * {{eat | name=Arsalan | alt= | url= | email= | address=28, Circus Ave | lat=22.541984 | long=88.363626 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22844010, +91 33 22848556 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=ارسلان ریسٹورنٹ کلکت .jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Biryani and Mughlai food. Popular items: firni, mutton kosha, mutton boti kebab, chicken chatpata, mutton biryani, egg chicken roll. They have seven branches: 1. Chinar Park, 2. Anandapur (opposite Calcutta International School), 3. Hatibagan, 4. Park Street Area (Muzaffar Ahmed Road), 5. Park Circus 7-point crossing, 6. New Alipore, and 7. Jessore Road, Bangur. }} * {{eat | name=Azad Hind | alt= | url= | email= | address=12/1, Ballygunge Circular Rd | lat=22.535884 | long=88.356996 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24866475, +91 33 24864742 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Virtually open round the clock | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=North Indian cuisine, street food. Popular items: chicken bharta, tandoori chicken, tandoori aloo, butter naan, dal tadka, rolls, panneer butter masala. No alchohol. }} * {{eat | name=Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick | alt= | url=https://www.balarammullick.com | email=balarammullicksweets@gmail.com | address=2, Puddapukur Rd, Bhowanipore | lat=22.533284 | long=88.346956 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2486 9490, +91 33 2454 0281 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-22 | content=Offers a wide range of sweets and snacks. Famous for its baked rosogolla. }} * {{eat | name=Balwant Singh's Eating House | alt= | url= | email= | address=10/B, Harish Mukherjee Rd | lat=22.537784 | long=88.344186 | directions= | phone=+91 9903975361 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=closed 3–4AM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=North Indian vegetarian cuisine. Popular items: Tea, lassi, paneer tikka, samosa, dudh cola, kesar chai. No alcohol. }} * {{eat | name=Banana Leaf | alt=A unit of Komala Vilas | url= | email= | address=74-75, Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.517243 | long=88.349757 | directions=near Lake Market | phone=+91 33 24641960, +91 33 24640941 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=South Indian vegetarian snacks and thali meal. Great food. Authentic South Indian taste - very different from the road side stalls catering to Bengali taste. }} * {{eat | name=Bhojohori Manna | alt= | url=http://bhojohorimanna.com/ | email= | address= | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | phone=+91 33 24663941, +91 33 24667686 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic and traditional Bengali food. Fish and vegetarian speciality - shukto, mochar ghonto, chital macher muitha, chingri macher malaikari, kankra (crab), et al. Mutton Dak Bungalow has become a trade mark. No hard drinks. }} ** {{eat | name=18/1A Hindustan Rd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.520263 | long=88.360997 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-28 | content= }} ** {{eat | name=9/18 Ekdalia Rd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.521063 | long=88.366577 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-28 | content=Mostly for takeaway service. Food also served. }} ** {{eat | name=23A Priyanath Mallick St | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.524354 | long=88.347536 | directions=near Hazra More | phone=+91 33 24545922 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Bijoli Grill | alt= | url=http://www.bijoligrill.com/kolkata.php | email= | phone=+91 33 4003 6606 | tollfree= | fax= | content=Seafood, Chinese and Bengali cuisine. }} ** {{eat | name=38, SP Mukherjee Rd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.527084 | long=88.345656 | directions= | hours= Noon-10PM | price= | content= }} ** {{eat | name=124B, Southern Ave | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.514263 | long=88.363237 | directions= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Coastal Macha | alt= | url= | email= | address=55, Southern Ave | lat=22.513263 | long=88.349337 | directions= | phone=+91 33 3099 1254 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=Indian seafood, South Indian, Keralian, Maharashtrian. }} * {{eat | name=Chinese Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=P 21 Old Ballygunge Rd | lat=22.528863 | long=88.365987 | directions=at Ballygunge Phari crossing | phone=+91 33 2283 3093, +91 9836627306 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:30PM | price= | content=Chinese and Thai cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=The Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ballygunge Phari | lat=22.528353 | long=88.365777 | directions= | phone=+91 8017779607, +91 9903000353 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM-11PM | price= | content=North Indian and Chinese cuisine. Try out the Punjabi speciality;''makka di roti'' and ''sarson di saag'' }} * {{eat | name=Drop In | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ground Floor, Ideal Towers, 57, Block A, Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.531794 | long=88.326716 | directions= | phone=+91 9073309928, +91 9073309929 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7:30AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=Vegetarian restaurant. Indian and Chinese cuisine. Popular items: lassi, naan, paneer tikka masala, roti, thali. }} * {{eat | name=Fung Shway | alt= | url= | email= | address=122A, Southern Ave | lat=22.514163 | long=88.362457 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4065 9510 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=Thai, Chinese, etc. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram | alt= | url= | email= | address=84A, Shambhunath Pandit St | lat=22.538084 | long=88.345996 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2455 2357 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=One of the oldest sweet meat sellers in Kolkata, with a chain of outlets across the city. It is a revered name in the arena of Bengali sweets. Take away only. }} * {{eat | name=Gupta Brothers | alt= | url= | email= | address=82A, Shambhunath Pandit Rd | lat=22.537984 | long=88.345206 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2455 6328, +91 33 2454 8716 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=Sweets and casual dining. Popular items: vegetarian thali, gulab jamun, dahi vada, dhania dosa, kulfi, mango lassi and idli. }} * {{eat | name=Kasturi Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=13/6B Anil Moitro Rd | lat=22.524313 | long=88.368597 | directions=near Patha Bhaban Montessori School | phone=+91 33 2440 0039, +91 8334922228 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:45AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Dhakai cuisine. Speciality - bhetki paturi, biryani, mochar ghonto, kochu pata chingri bhapa, jhuri alu bhaja, mutton kosha, kosha mangsho. }} * {{eat | name=Khawab | alt= | url= | email= | address=166A, Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.519163 | long=88.352187 | directions=near National High School For Girls | phone=+91 9836033337, +91 9874246629, +91 33 24669695 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hyderabadi Mutton Biryani, Mutton Rogan Josh. }} * {{eat | name=Krystal Chopstick | alt= | url= | email= | address=71 H, Hindustan Park | lat=22.518263 | long=88.361897 | directions=opposite Basanti Devi College | phone=+91 33 4060 3022, +91 9831526118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:30PM | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. No drinks. }} * {{eat | name=Kurry Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=176 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.516143 | long=88.352757 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24661979 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Mexican, Italian and other cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Kwality | alt= | url= | email= | address=2A, Gariahat Rd | lat=22.528063 | long=88.366277 | directions=near Ballygunge Phari crossing | phone=+91 33 2460 9982, +91 33 2460 7079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:45PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=One of the earliest posh restaurants in South Kolkata. Authentic North Indian delicacies. Continental and Chinese also served. Drinks available. Payment in cash only. }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja and Maharani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.516513 | long=88.352387 | directions=near the Rashbehari Ave crossing | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=These are two separate kachori shops, near each other. The footpath in front of the shops is always crowded. Their early morning stocks often get exhausted by around 9AM. They also serve later in the day. Anyone going that way must give it a try. Don't miss the jalebis/malpuas after the kachouri-sabzi. The location shown on the map here is that of Maharani, and Maharaja is a little down the road towards the lakes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworth House, 3A, Guru Saday Dutta Rd | lat=22.536913 | long=88.359477 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2283 7964, +91 9330627506 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30-3PM, 7-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Innovative Chinese food. Grand buffets. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Marco Polo | alt= | url= | email= | address=205 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.514763 | long=88.352657 | directions=near Southern Ave crossing | phone=+91 33 2463 0909 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-11:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Continental and North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Mirch Masala | alt= | url=http://mirch-masala.in/ | email= | address=49/2 Gariahat Rd | lat=22.523184 | long=88.364596 | directions=near Pantaloons | phone=+91 9830644484, +91 33 24618900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Great Punjabi food, also has a Chinese restaurant. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Mitra Cafe | alt= | url=http://mitracafe.co.in/ | email= | address=23/37 Gariahat Rd | lat=22.515563 | long=88.367127 | directions= | phone=+91 90076 95923 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=North Indian fast food. Speciality - fish kaviraji, mutton chops, rolls, pakoda, mutton kaviraji, chowmein, pudding. }} * {{eat | name=Only Alibaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=28A, Syed Amir Ali Ave | lat=22.540784 | long=88.365426 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4070 1109 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-4:30PM, 7-11PM | price= | content=Biryani and Mughlai food. The food has a good taste in the main shop but in their fry king outlet at Baghajatin some items are bad and unpalatable. }} * {{eat | name=Oudh 1590 | alt= | url=http://oudh1590.com/ | email= | address=23/B, Deshapriya Park and also at P-562, Hemanta Mukhopadhyay Sarani (behind Vivekananda Park) | lat=22.518543 | long=88.350257 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Period dining experience - try it out. }} * {{eat | name=Padmaparer Rannaghar | alt= | url= | email= | address=26/4 Gariahat Rd | lat=22.518363 | long=88.365457 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2419 8916 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10PM | price= | lastedit=2018-03-16 | content=Bengali and South Indian cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Pepper Chino | alt= | url= | email= | address=37 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.534064 | long=88.353256 | directions=opposite Lakshmi Narayan Temple | phone=+91 33 6555 2051, +91 7004985103 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-4AM | price= | content=North Indian Continental and Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Prema Vilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=63/1, Lake Market | lat=22.517143 | long=88.348957 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2463 1961 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=South Indian vegetarian. }} * {{eat | name=Sangu Valley Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=6A, SP Mukherjee Rd | lat=22.528454 | long=88.345336 | directions= | phone=+91 9831361928, +91 8583962171 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | content=North Indian, Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=South India Club Canteen | alt= | url=http://calcuttasouthindiaclub.com/ | email= | address=70 B, Hindustan Park | lat=22.518363 | long=88.362757 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24640927 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Budget restaurant. The place is not posh but has tasty food. }} * {{eat | name=Subway | alt= | url= | email= | address=Merlin Homeland, 18B, Asutosh Mukherjee Road | lat=22.536284 | long=88.345586 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4004 7412, +91 33 2454 2234 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=Healthy food, salad, fast foods. Popular items: Sandwiches, Chicken Wrap, Chicken Tikka Sub. No alcohol. }} * {{eat | name=Tamarind | alt= | url= | email= | address=177 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.518513 | long=88.351857 | directions=near Deshapriya Park | phone=+91 33 66343960 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=South Indian mon-vegetarian. Snacks like idli and dosa are not available. Specialised main meal dishes. Enjoy Keralite food, Coorgi dishes et al. }} * {{eat | name=Tangra Kaizen | alt= | url= | email= | address=33B, Sarat Bose Rd, Paddapukur | lat=22.534544 | long=88.353356 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2474 4358 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=Chinese and Thai cuisine. Drinks served. Only cash payment. }} * {{eat | name=Tero Parban | alt= | url= | email= | address=49C Purna Das Rd | lat=22.516863 | long=88.362657 | directions=Near Gol Park | phone=+91 33 2464 0199, +91 9830432175 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:30PM | price= | content=Bengali cuisine with the ambience of a traditional Bengali home. }} * {{eat | name=Zeeshan | alt= | url= | email= | address=17 Syed Amir Ali Ave | lat=22.541384 | long=88.365926 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22806842, +91 9903611112 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-midnight | price= | content=Zeeshan has several outlets mostly for takeaway customers: 1. Deshapriya Park, 2. Kidderpore, 3. Garia, 4. Lake Market Area, 5. Ballygunge, 6. Tollygunge, 7. Esplanade, 8. College Street.<br/>Biryani and Mughlai food. Popular items: biryani, rolls, firni, murg reshmi kabab, mutton tikka, mutton chaap, tandoori chicken. }} * {{eat | name=Zeeshan | alt= | url= | email= | address=187 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.516343 | long=88.352387 | directions=near Deshapriya Park | phone=+91 33 2464 4224, +91 7604066539 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11PM| price= | content=Great Mughlai food, take away only. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mocha | alt= | url= | email= | address=AJC Bose Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Underground | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Hindusthan International | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Fern Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.5209 | long=88.3681 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24407797, +91 9831477704 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komala Vilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=74&75 Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.5170 | long=88.3492| directions= | phone=+91 33 24641960| fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel MB International | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Platinum | alt= | url=http://hotelplatinum.co.in | email= | address=14, Syed Amir Ali Ave | lat=22.5417 | long=88.365696 | directions= | phone=+91 89610 50299 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,360-2,050 | wikidata=Q111123499 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Park Inn | alt= | url=http://en.directrooms.com/hotels/info/1-27-155-80427/ | email= | address=10/1 Tal Bagan Ln | lat= 22.5411| long=88.3683 | directions= | phone= | fax=| price= US$20 for standard double bedded room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sharani Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=71/K Hindustan Park, Gariahat | lat=22.5182 | long=88.3626 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24635717, +91 33 24641999, +91 33 24644971 | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Gariahat Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=19, Garcha Rd, Dover Terrace | lat=22.51879 | long=88.365256 | directions= | phone=+91 72589 86668 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111055215 | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Cornfield Retreat | alt= | url=https://www.kolkatahomestay.com | email=bookings@kolkatahomestay.com | address=8/1C, Cornfield Road | lat=22.52195 | long=88.36857 | directions= | phone=+91 9830 555 145 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹849 | image= | lastedit=2024-10-03 | content=Single, couple and family options. Air-conditioning, fibre-optic WiFi, streaming enabled. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=The Best Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1B, Sushil Sen Rd | lat=22.5363 | long=88.3453 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24549101 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,000-3,000 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=Amenities include air-conditioning, telephone, internet connectivity, TV (Cable), laundry service, housekeeping, room service, continental breakfast. Deluxe Suite (King size Double Bed)/Deluxe Queen (Queen Double Bed)/Deluxe Twin (two single beds) rooms with attached bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Fortuna Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.casafortunahotel.com/ | email=resvn@casafortunahotel.com | address=234/1A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5410 | long=88.3555 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4021 8000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Deluxe single ₹5,000, Deluxe double ₹6,000 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Central Bed & Breakfast | url=http://www.centralbnb.com | email=j@centralbnb.com | address=7th Floor, Lansdowne Court, 5B, Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.54022 | long=88.3544 | directions=near Minto Park | phone=+91 9836465400 | fax= | hours= | price=₹2,699| checkin=Noon | checkout=10AM | content=10-minute drive from Park Street and 1 minute from Minto Park. It’s on the 7th floor of a residential apartment. 4 bedrooms with free WiFi, attached bathrooms, common kitchen. All rooms are air-conditioned. Owners live in the same building. Great location, safe, and 24/7 security. Recommended for backpackers. }} * {{sleep | name=Kalighat Pilgrimage Facilitation Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,000–2,200 per room | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Samilton | alt= | url=http://www.samiltonhotel.com/ | email= | address=35A, Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.5338 | long=88.3532 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40932000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-4,500 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Lee International | alt= | url=https://thesparkhotels.com/hotel_details/hotel-lee-international | email=booking.hotellee@thesparkhotels.com | address=53/D1, Tiljala Rd | lat=22.53889 | long=88.37625 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23431678, +91 33 23431679 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹2,580-4,095 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Mrs. Dam's Guesthouse | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2290 4533 | fax= | hours= | price=₹2000 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Modern, prettily furnished rooms with attached bath, air-con, TV, etc. in a quiet, safe neighborhood. Helpful owner lives in the same building, and is a handy source for tips on what to see/where to go in Kolkata. They also have a great cook, so make sure you try a home-cooked Bengali meal when you're there. }} * {{sleep | name=The Red Carpet | alt= | url= | email= | address=P-399, Keyatala Ln | lat=22.5159 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40086847 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,500 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Blue Chip | alt= | url=http://www.bluechipguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=99/5/13, Dr Amiya Bose Sarani | lat=22.52795 | long=88.36803 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2460 3983 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Basera Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=128C, Southern Ave, Golpark | lat=22.51524 | long=88.36541 | directions= | phone=+91 90515 66883 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content= }} ===Splurge=== *{{sleep | name=Bodhi Tree Boutique Guesthouse | url=http://bodhitree-cal.spaces.live.com | email= | address=48/44, Swiss Park, | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2424 6534 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2424 1598| hours= | price=| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Hindustan International | alt= | url=http://www.hindusthan.com | email= | address=AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5409 | long=88.3506 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹5,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Bengal | alt= | url=https://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-bengal-kolkata/ | email=bengal.calcutta@tajhotels.com | address=34B, Belvedere Rd, Alipore | lat=22.53738 | long=88.33394 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2223 3939, +91 33 6612 3939, +91 33 2223 1193 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2223 1766 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q110942881 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A deluxe hotel and is amongst the top hotels in Kolkata. The restaurants are also open to non-residents. The hotel has 200 rooms and 29 suites, with terracotta statuary and palm-covered atrium lobby. It has fine dining restaurants such as Cal27, Sonargaon, Souk, Chinoiseire and The Chambers, along with an al fresco area and banquet halls. }} * {{sleep | name=Roland Hotel | alt= | url=https://rolandhotel.com | email=info@rolandhotel.com | address=28A, Rowland Rd, Rowland Row, Ballygunge | lat=22.536324 | long=88.354110 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2475-7780 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | image= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content= }} == Connect == * {{listing | name=Kolkata Metropolitan Library | alt= | url= | email= | address=2, Ballygunge Park Rd | lat=22.53425 | long=88.36564 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2287-2004 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content= }} * {{Listing | name=Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture | alt= | url=http://sriramakrishna.org/ | email=rmic@vsnl.com | address=Golpark | lat=22.5149 | long=88.3662 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2464 1307 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7288805 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Houses a bookstore and a library, among other amenities, with Ramakrishna-Vivekananda literature. It has an auditorium and a well-maintained guest house. }} * {{listing | name=Sarat Bose Road Post Office| alt= | url=http://indiapost.gov.in | email= | address=Raja Basanta Roy Rd, Southern Ave, Ballygunge | lat=22.51397 | long=88.35284| directions= | phone=+91 33 2466 3126| hours= | price=| content= }} ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Alipore police station | lat=22.52825 | long=88.33623 | phone=+91 33 24791021 }} * {{listing | name=Ballygunge police station | lat=22.53022 | long=88.35395 | phone=+91 33 24543179, +91 33 24542100, +91 33 24862601 }} * {{listing | name=Bhowanipore police station | lat=22.52683 | long=88.34598 | phone=+91 33 24558092, +91 33 24541100, +91 33 24862711 }} * {{listing | name=Gariahat police station | lat=22.52126 | long=88.36418 | phone=+91 33 24863702 }} ==Go next== {{routebox | placename=South Kolkata | image1=Baruipur–Namkhana Line.svg | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=N | majorl1=END | minorl1= | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Bakkhali]] | minorr1=[[Jaynagar Majilpur]] | image2=Kolkata Circular Railway.svg | imagesize2=100 | directionl2=N | majorl2=[[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] | minorl2=[[Kolkata/Maidan|Maidan]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Kolkata/Far North|Far North Kolkata]] | minorr2=[[Kolkata/East|East Kolkata]] | image3=Kolkata Metro Blue Line text icon.svg | imagesize3=100 | directionl3=N | majorl3=[[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]] | minorl3=[[Kolkata/Central|Central Kolkata]] | directionr3=S | majorr3=END | minorr3= }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.530|88.342|zoom=14}} 2muazcptrkn7pcuingpsrp3l82m74wj 5090812 5090810 2025-07-10T13:34:55Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Budget */ Updated listing for Hotel MB International 5090812 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Rashbehari avenue and SP Mukherjee road crossing(Kolkata) (cropped).jpg|pgname=South Kolkata}} [[File:Alipore_Zoological_Garden_-_Kolkata_2011-05-03_2548.JPG|thumb|Entrance of Alipore Zoo]] [[File:Kalighat_temple_with_bazzar.JPG|thumb|Kalighat Temple]] '''South Kolkata''' (দক্ষিণ কলকাতা ''Dakṣiṇ Kalkātā'') is a posh and new area of [[Kolkata]]. It is less congested and more modern than most parts of the city. You will find more flat blocks and green patches here compared to the North. ==Understand== This district covers the neighbourhoods south of Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Road (AJC Bose Road, previously Lower Circular Road), west of Sealdah South lines, and north of the [[Kolkata/Southern Suburbs|Southern Suburbs]]. The major neighbourhoods in South Kolkata include Alipore, Ballygunge, Bhowanipore, Chetla,Dhakuria, Gariahat, Kalighat, Kidderpore, Majerhat, Park Circus, and Taratala. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.5265|88.346|height=520|width=620|zoom=14|name=Map of South Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} {{Mapmask|22.5159,88.3717|22.5293,88.3729|22.5294,88.3737|22.5292,88.3747|22.5295,88.3748|22.5302,88.3747|22.5313,88.3748|22.5330,88.3749|22.5331,88.3748|22.5333,88.3746|22.5334,88.3745|22.5339,88.3745|22.5343,88.3744|22.5344,88.3746|22.5344,88.3747|22.5345,88.3748|22.5345,88.3749|22.5344,88.3758|22.5347,88.3761|22.5347,88.3763|22.5344,88.3764|22.5342,88.3766|22.5340,88.3767|22.5339,88.3770|22.5336,88.3770|22.5335,88.3771|22.5335,88.3773|22.5333,88.3786|22.5334,88.3787|22.5334,88.3790|22.5334,88.3792|22.5336,88.3796|22.5341,88.3799|22.5342,88.3799|22.5350,88.3797|22.5351,88.3797|22.5356,88.3799|22.5360,88.3800|22.5374,88.3795|22.5379,88.3794|22.5380,88.3793|22.5382,88.3789|22.5384,88.3785|22.5385,88.3785|22.5392,88.3787|22.5391,88.3776|22.5392,88.3760|22.5390,88.3752|22.5391,88.3737|22.5513,88.3750|22.5513,88.3749|22.5514,88.3746|22.5515,88.3743|22.5516,88.3741|22.5517,88.3734|22.5517,88.3732|22.5518,88.3724|22.5520,88.3724|22.5521,88.3720|22.5523,88.3715|22.5513,88.3712|22.5449,88.3705|22.5434,88.3665|22.5433,88.3665|22.5432,88.3665|22.5431,88.3665|22.5430,88.3664|22.5430,88.3663|22.5429,88.3662|22.5429,88.3661|22.5430,88.3660|22.5430,88.3659|22.5431,88.3658|22.5432,88.3658|22.5434,88.3658|22.5434,88.3658|22.5435,88.3658|22.5467,88.3614|22.5410,88.3593|22.5416,88.3473|22.5417,88.3459|22.5415,88.3435|22.5399,88.3370|22.5399,88.3365|22.5400,88.3361|22.5407,88.3347|22.5392,88.3338|22.5394,88.3336|22.5396,88.3334|22.5398,88.3331|22.5404,88.3328|22.5407,88.3325|22.5409,88.3323|22.5411,88.3320|22.5412,88.3316|22.5412,88.3311|22.5412,88.3307|22.5412,88.3302|22.5412,88.3298|22.5412,88.3294|22.5414,88.3291|22.5422,88.3281|22.5442,88.3267|22.5461,88.3257|22.5467,88.3250|22.5470,88.3248|22.5473,88.3246|22.5477,88.3245|22.5479,88.3245|22.5481,88.3246|22.5488,88.3250|22.5491,88.3251|22.5494,88.3251|22.5500,88.3250|22.5503,88.3249|22.5534,88.3223|22.5508,88.3187|22.5497,88.3130|22.5493,88.3085|22.5495,88.3047|22.5521,88.2957|22.5522,88.2937|22.5526,88.2911|22.5482,88.2892|22.5480,88.2905|22.5470,88.2927|22.5463,88.2944|22.5461,88.2945|22.5458,88.2946|22.5454,88.2946|22.5445,88.2945|22.5439,88.2945|22.5438,88.2945|22.5436,88.2946|22.5435,88.2939|22.5435,88.2938|22.5435,88.2937|22.5433,88.2935|22.5433,88.2934|22.5430,88.2933|22.5429,88.2932|22.5429,88.2932|22.5429,88.2929|22.5429,88.2926|22.5430,88.2923|22.5431,88.2918|22.5432,88.2915|22.5432,88.2915|22.5435,88.2913|22.5435,88.2912|22.5437,88.2905|22.5436,88.2905|22.5435,88.2904|22.5435,88.2903|22.5435,88.2900|22.5432,88.2900|22.5428,88.2901|22.5427,88.2905|22.5411,88.2907|22.5408,88.2908|22.5405,88.2910|22.5403,88.2919|22.5399,88.2919|22.5387,88.2916|22.5386,88.2933|22.5320,88.2916|22.5312,88.2915|22.5238,88.2911|22.5225,88.2912|22.5215,88.2915|22.5205,88.2918|22.5199,88.2921|22.5173,88.2915|22.5163,88.2923|22.5166,88.2930|22.5168,88.2938|22.5169,88.2945|22.5171,88.2970|22.5172,88.2976|22.5173,88.2979|22.5170,88.2987|22.5169,88.2991|22.5150,88.3007|22.5142,88.3016|22.5141,88.3028|22.5138,88.3042|22.5131,88.3057|22.5122,88.3079|22.5120,88.3077|22.5118,88.3077|22.5118,88.3079|22.5118,88.3079|22.5118,88.3080|22.5117,88.3085|22.5115,88.3092|22.5106,88.3139|22.5105,88.3143|22.5105,88.3148|22.5104,88.3151|22.5104,88.3152|22.5104,88.3153|22.5104,88.3157|22.5104,88.3159|22.5102,88.3166|22.5099,88.3180|22.5098,88.3182|22.5091,88.3209|22.5132,88.3224|22.5184,88.3237|22.5103,88.3359|22.5098,88.3367|22.5094,88.3378|22.5092,88.3387|22.5097,88.3422|22.5095,88.3434|22.5083,88.3457|22.5080,88.3463|22.5079,88.3468|22.5077,88.3484|22.5077,88.3500|22.5078,88.3509|22.5102,88.3657|22.5104,88.3666|22.5107,88.3675|22.5113,88.3685|22.5121,88.3695|22.5129,88.3702|22.5135,88.3707|22.5145,88.3712|22.5159,88.3717}} South Kolkata can be easily reached from Central Kolkata easily by bus, taxi or metro railway. The number of buses is slightly low from the North, but the metro and tram are always available. There also are bus and metro links from further east and south. ===By bus=== Like other parts of the city, buses have the most extensive coverage, and is inexpensive. ===By metro=== South Kolkata is mainly served by metro line {{rint|kolkata|1}}, which runs across Ashutosh Mukherjee Road and SP Mukherjee Road. This is useful to get in here from northern and southeastern parts of the city, though you have to take a car, bus, or rickshaw to get to places like Ballygunge and Dhakuria. Line {{rint|kolkata|3}} begins from Majerhat and runs across Diamond Harbour Road, in the [[Kolkata/Southern Suburbs|Southern Suburbs]]. ===By train=== {{rint|kolkata|circular}} runs across this district, from Ballygunge to Khiddirpur, which is useful to get here from northern parts of the city. There are also two junction stations for local trains, both of which are useful for people from the [[Kolkata/Southern Suburbs|Southern Suburbs]] or [[South 24 Parganas]]. * {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Ballygunge|circular|sealdah south}}|wikidata=Q55639257}} * {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Majerhat|3|circular|sealdah south}}|wikidata=Q20718005}} ==See== [[File:Belvedere Building - Indian National Library - Belvedere Estate - Kolkata 2014-05-02 4742.JPG|thumb|National Library of India]] [[File:Rabindra Sarovar view.jpg|thumb|Rabindra Sarobar]] * {{see | name=Alipore Zoo | alt=আলিপুর চিড়িয়াখানা ''Ālipur Ciṛiẏākhānā'' | url=http://www.kolkatazoo.in/ | email=director@kolkatazoo.in | address=No.2 Alipore Rd, Alipore | lat=22.535913 | long=88.332053 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2479 1150 | tollfree= | hours=F–W 9AM–5PM, aquarium 10:30AM–5PM | price=Zoo ₹20, aquarium ₹5, video photography ₹250 per hour | wikidata=Q3346440 | lastedit=2023-04-14 | content=One of the most famous zoological gardens in Eastern India. It was once notorious for its cross-breeding experiments between lions and tigers to produce strains like ''tigons'', ''ligers'' and ''litigons''. It was home to Advaita, the longest-lived animal in the world, who died in March 2006. The other success story of the zoo was a live birth of the rare Sumatran rhinoceros in 1889. The lakes within are a favourite retreat for migratory Siberian birds. }} * {{see | name=Agri Horticultural Garden | alt= | url=http://www.ahsi.in/ | email= | address=1, Alipore Rd | lat=22.5282 | long=88.3333 | directions=south from National Library, {{km|0.8}} from Remount Road railway station | phone=+91 33 2479 1713 | tollfree= | hours=7–11AM and 1:30–5:00PM, closed on W upto 11AM and Th | price= | wikidata=Q4693837 | lastedit=2022-10-08 | content=Founded by William Carey in 1820, it is a lush environ owned and managed by the Agri Horticultural Society of India. The venue for exotic plant and flower exhibitions, it is spread over 21 acres comprising main lawns and informal gardens and children park, and has many rare and tropical plants. }} * {{see | name=Dhanadhanya Auditorium | alt=ধনধান্য ''Dhanadhānya''; variously spelt as Dhanadhanye or Dhonodhanno | url= | email= | address=Thackeray Rd | lat=22.53036 | long=88.33946 | directions=off Debendra Lal Khan Rd, opposite Presidency Jail | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q118896876 | lastedit=2024-12-06 | content=An auditorium shaped like a humongous conch-shell (শাঁখ ''śā̃kh''), an example of mimetic or novelty architecture in India. Inaugurated on April 2023, the building has 6 floors containing guest house, restaurant, cafeteria, VIP lounge, media lounge and a convention centre. It hosts various cultural programmes and is also a venue for national and international trade fairs. }} * {{see | name=Indenture Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kidderpore Dock | lat=22.54831 | long=88.31886 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Indenture Memorial, Kidderepore.jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=A memorial dedicated to the 1.6 million Indian workers who were transported to labour in European colonies. The indenture system was a substitute for slavery, which was abolished in many European countries by the 19th century. This resulted to the increasing presence of Indians abroad, especially in Africa, Southeast Asia, the Caribbean and the Pacific. }} * {{see | name=Kalighat Home for the Dying | alt=নির্মল হৃদয় ''Nirmal Hr̥daẏ'' | url= | email= | address=Kalighat Rd | lat=22.520306 | long=88.341611 | directions=next door to the Kalighat Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3342122 | lastedit=2024-12-06 | content=A hospice for the sick, destitute and the dying established by Mother Teresa. }} * {{see | name=India Government Mint | alt=Calcutta Mint | url=http://igmkolkata.spmcil.com/Interface/Home.aspx | email= | address=Taratala | lat=22.5155 | long=88.3212 | directions=south of {{station|Majerhat|3|circular|sealdah south}} | phone=+91 33 2401 4132 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6019316 | lastedit=2024-12-06 | content=Though the mint dates back to 1757, the present building was built from the 1930s to the 1952. }} * {{see | name=National Library of India | alt=জাতীয় গ্রন্থাগার ''Jātīẏa Granthāgār'', previously Belvedere House | url=http://www.nationallibrary.gov.in/ | email=nldirector@rediffmail.com | address=Belvedere Rd, Alipore | lat=22.533206 | long=88.333318 | directions=near Alipore Zoo, 1.3 km E of {{station|Netaji Bhavan|blue}} | phone=+91 33 2248-7831,+91-33-2479 1382,+91-33-2479 1383,+91-33-2479 1384,+91-33-2479 1385,+91-33-2479 1386,+91-33-2479 1387,+91-33-2479 2467 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2479-1462 | hours=M-F 9AM-8PM; Sa Su, holidays: 9:30AM-6PM | price= | wikidata=Q619913 | lastedit=2022-10-08 | content=This is a stately mansion. Once home of the British Viceroys, Belvedere House is now the National Library. The oldest library in India with a huge collection, including some rarities. It houses over a million books and is the biggest in India. }} * {{see | name=Nizam Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=234/4, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5409 | long=88.35106 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39089723 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A heritage building constructed in 1933. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Sarobar | alt=রবীন্দ্র সরোবর ''Rabīndra Sarōbar'' | url= | email= | address=Southern Ave (Dr. Meghnad Saha Sarani), Dhakuria | lat=22.511016 | long=88.359706 | directions=local: {{station|Lake Gardens|city=kolkata|circular|sealdah south}}; metro: {{station|Rabindra Sarobar|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1651774 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A large open lake and park area housing boating clubs, an open air theatre and eateries. The rowing regatta events are held here. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Alipore Museum | alt=previously Alipore Central Jail | url= | email= | address=17, Judges Court Rd, Alipore | lat=22.525275 | long=88.339866 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4726823 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=A museum dedicated to the [[Indian independence movement]], especially its violent faction. It was a prison during British times used to arrest freedom activists like Sri Aurobindo and Subhas Chandra Bose. }} * {{see | name=Birla Industrial & Technological Museum | alt= | url=https://bitm.gov.in/ | email= | address=19A, Gurusaday Rd | lat=22.534817 | long=88.363361 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22877241, +91 33 22877242, +91 33 22877243 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM–5:30PM | price=₹15; special presentations are charged extra | wikidata=Q3532605 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Inaugurated in 1959 as the first popular science museum in Asia. It is a modern museum with lots of interesting artefacts, shows, events and activities, primarily popular with school-going children. Its collection of old gramophones, sound recorders, telephones, steam engines, road rollers, and other industrial machinery of the period 1880–1950 is very significant. It also actively organises summer camps, awareness programs and astronomy observations for school children. The exhibitions, many of them demanding you to take an active part, can compete with one you could visit in countries like the United States. }} * {{see | name=Centre of International Modern Art | alt=CIMA | url=https://www.cimaartindia.com/ | email=cima.gallery2011@gmail.com | address=Sunny Towers, 43 Ashutosh Chowdhury Ave | lat=22.531512 | long=88.362627 | directions=close to the Birla Temple | phone=+91 33 2485-8509, +91 33 2485 8717 | tollfree= | hours=M 3–7PM, Tu–Sa 11AM–7PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q107208118 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=A small museum showing modern artworks. }} * {{see | name=Maulana Azad Museum | alt= | url=http://www.makaias.gov.in | email= | address=5, Ashraf Mistry Ln, Ballygunge | lat=22.533024 | long=88.356568 | directions=near Ballygunge Military Camp Gate | phone=+91 33 23356623 | tollfree= | hours=M–F 11AM–5PM. Closed on Sa, Su and national holidays | price=Free | wikidata=Q6792417 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=The former home of the Indian freedom activist and the first Education Minister of India, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. Maulana Azad's work interpreting the mystic Sarmad of Prince Dara Shikoh's court is also a cornerstone to the secular tradition of India. The museum is replete with narrations of his life, times, work, personal archives and belongings. }} * {{see | name=Netaji Bhawan | alt=নেতাজি ভবন ''Nētaji Bhaban'' | url=https://www.netaji.org/#/nrb/museums | email= | address=38/2, Elgin Rd (Lala Lajpat Rai Sarani), Bhowanipore | lat=22.537586 | long=88.351246 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2486-8139, +91 33 2486 8070 (fax) | tollfree= | hours=Tu–Su 11AM–5PM, | price=₹20 (adults), ₹10 (children) | wikidata=Q11325387 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A heritage building maintained as a memorial and research centre to the life of the Indian nationalist Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. }} * {{see | name=Tram World | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gariahat | lat=22.52539 | long=88.36532 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=A museum showcasing the 150-year-old heritage of the tram system in Kolkata. }} * {{see | name=Gautam Sen Memorial Boardgame Museum | alt= | url=https://sites.google.com/view/kolkataboardgamemuseum/home | email= | address=Ballygunge Circular Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-12-19 | content=Entry is by invitation or prior appointment only. A collection of ancient and modern board games, ranging from the oldest boardgame, The Royal Game of Ur, to current games such as Settlers of Catan and Grizzled. }} ===Religious attractions=== [[File:A C Avenue 'Birla Temple'.jpg|thumb|Birla Temple]] * {{see | name=Bhowanipore Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Debendra Lal Khan Rd | lat=22.535694 | long=88.337205 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q69265409 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content= }} * {{see | name=Birla Temple | alt=Radha-Krishna Temple | url= | email= | address=2 Queens Park Road, Ashutosh Chowdary Ave | lat=22.5303 | long=88.3648| directions=Ballygunge Phari Bus Stop | phone= | hours=5:30-11AM and 4:30-9PM | price= | content=The most modernly-opulent in Kolkata and worth a visit. The adjoining tree-lined lane '''Queen's Park''' is the most exclusive and fashionable address in the city and is worth a stroll through. Some of the biggest names in the city call it home. A close second is '''Sunny Park''', running parallel to Queen's Park on the other side of the Birla Temple. }} * {{see | name=Kalighat Temple | alt=কালীঘাট মন্দির ''Kālīghāṭ Mandir'' | url=http://kalighattemple.com/ | email= | address=Kali Mandir Rd, Kalighat | lat=22.520278 | long=88.342083 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q535970 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Houses Kolkata's patron deity. According to the legend, when Lord Shiva’s wife Parvati’s body was cut up, one of her fingers fell here. Rebuilt in 1809, this is one of the 51 ''shakti pithas''. }} ==Do== === Cinema halls === * {{do | name=Basusree Cinema | alt= | url=http://basusreecinema.com/ | email= | address=102, SP Mukherjee Rd | lat= | long= | directions=metro: {{station|Kalighat|1}} | phone=+91 33 2455 4808 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=One of the four cinema halls that premiered Satyajit Ray's movie ''Pather Panchali''. While the other halls were later shut down or became inactive, this one is still very active. }} * {{do | name=Bijoli Cinema | alt= | url=https://in.bookmyshow.com/kolkata/cinemas/bijoli-cinema-kolkata/BJLC | email= | address=39, SP Mukherjee Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2455 5382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content= }} * {{do | name=Priya Cinema | alt= | url=http://www.priyaentertainments.com/ | email= | address=95, Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.518 | long=88.3544 | directions=beside Deshapriya Park | phone=+91 33 2464 1313 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7246463 | lastedit=2025-01-04 | content= }} * {{do | name=Menoka Cinema | alt= | url=http://www.menokacinemakolkata.com/Default.aspx | email= | address=5, Sarat Chatterjee Ave | lat= | long= | directions=near Rabindra Sarobar Stadium | phone=+91 33 2466 0417, +91 33 2466 3080 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content= }} ===Clubs and stadiums === * {{do | name=Calcutta Club | alt= | url=https://www.calcuttaclub.org/ | email= | address=241, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.54124 | long=88.3463 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5018923 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=An iconic landmark in Kolkata, representing the elite (''babu'') Bengal with rich history and culture. }} * {{do | name=Calcutta Cricket and Football Club | alt= | url=https://ccfc1792.com/ | email= | address=19/1, Gurusaday Dutta Rd, Ballygunge | lat=22.53346 | long=88.363746 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q11044609 | lastedit=2023-01-24 | content=Founded in 1792, it is the second oldest cricket club in the world after Marylebone Cricket Club. It has arguably the most picturesque cricket ground in Kolkata. }} * {{do | name=Calcutta Cricket Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=~107, Southern Ave, Lake Terrace | lat=22.51274 | long=88.35502 | directions=on the northern lakeshore of the Rabindra Sarobar | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Rabindra Sarobar Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Moira Street, Hindustan Park | lat=22.511667 | long=88.352222 | directions=Sarat Bose Southern Ave Crossing Bus Stop | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7278758 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Multi-use stadium. Can accommodate 40,000 spectators. }} ===Parks=== * {{do | name=Deshapriya Park | alt=দেশপ্রিয় পার্ক ''Deśapriẏa Pārk'' | url= | email= | address=Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.518294 | long=88.353553 | directions=intersection to Sarat Bose Rd; {{station|Deshapriya Park|bus|tram}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=| wikidata=Q5264153 | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Although it looks like an ordinary playground for most of the time, it is the host of one of the biggest celebrations of [[Durga Puja]] in South Kolkata. It also contains one of the tallest permanently-installed Durga statues of the city. }} * {{do | name=Park Circus Maidan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Suhrawardy Ave | lat=22.543062 | long=88.369124 | directions=suburban: {{station|Park Circus|circular|sealdah south}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68935124 | lastedit=2022-12-08 | content=Park Circus Maidan becomes a focal point during the winter—especially in December and January—as it becomes home to circus companies and kids all over the city flock to the maidan to watch circus. }} == Buy == * {{buy | name=Fancy Market | alt= | url= | email=| address=~22, Karl Marx Sarani, Kidderpore | lat=22.5391 | long=88.3233 | directions= | phone=| hours= | price=| content=Consumer goods market - lots of foreign goods. Fancy items, fancy prices. Beware of fakes. }} * {{buy | name=Gariahat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.5191 | long=88.3616 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5523285 | lastedit=2022-09-28 | content=Spread along Rashbehari Avenue, Gariahat Road and the lanes in the area, Gariahat is one of the largest markets in Kolkata, where one can find shops ranging from branded showrooms and malls to numerous smaller shops. The shops sell a variety of saris, clothes, jewellery, electronic goods, furniture and whatnot. The makeshift shops along the footpaths, popular as hawkers, sell everything – crockery, cutlery, decorative items and utilities. It has numerous eateries and street food joints. Vegetables, fruits, flowers, betel leaves, fish, eggs and meat are the main groceries available. You can buy branded and non-branded clothing from Western like tees and jeans to traditional Indian such as dupattas and sarees, along with bags and purses. }} * {{buy | name=Jadu Babu's Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=31, Asutosh Mukherjee Rd | lat=22.533763 | long=88.346469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, fish, meat, eggs, etc., available }} * {{buy | name=Lake Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=104, Rash Behari Ave | lat=22.516746 | long=88.348325 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=One of the largest markets in Kolkata. Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, flowers, fish, meat, eggs, etc., available. It is the best place in South Kolkata for flowers, flower bouquets, floral rings etc. }} * {{buy | name=Lansdowne Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=65/1 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.528431 | long=88.351812 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, flowers, fish, meat, eggs, etc., available. Old market, popular for both variety and fair prices. }} * {{buy | name=Machhli Baba | alt= | url=http://machhlibaba.com/ | email= | address=24A, Lake View Rd, Ground Floor | lat=22.515583 | long=88.355867 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Different varieties of fish starting from single piece to large quantities }} === Malls === * {{buy | name=Forum Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=10/3 Elgin Rd | lat=22.5381 | long=88.3512 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-9PM, M 1-8PM, closed Sunday | price= | wikidata=Q5473038 | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content=There is an appealing range of upmarket shops housed across six floors. Forum is a centre of fashion and there are many beautiful clothes, accessories, and shoes to choose from. For those with nostalgia about things foreign, can find shops selling Belgian chocolates, English biscuits and so on. Restaurants and bars include [http://www.speciality.co.in/oh_calcutta/index.html Oh! Calcutta] ({{phone|+91 33 22837161}}, mains from ₹150, excellent Bengali food), Cafe Mezzuna, Ar-Han-Thai (Lebanese & Thai food), Spaghetti Kitchen (Italian food), Starstruck (Chinese, Continental, North Indian, Mughlai). }} * {{buy | name=Lake Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kavi Bharati Sarani | lat=22.516546 | long=88.349125 | directions=off 104, Rash Behari Ave | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Highend shopping mall, branded shops, food court and restaurants, multiplex, offices and hotel. }} * {{buy | name=Merlin Homeland Mall | alt= | url=https://merlinhomelandmall.wordpress.com/ | email= | address=18B Asutosh Mukherjee Rd, Bhowanipore | lat=22.5392 | long=88.3460 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Homeland Mall is one stop mall for house building materials and interior decor items. E Zone Electronic Mall is next to it. }} * {{buy | name=Quest Mall | alt= | url=http://questmall.in/ | email= | address=33, Syed Amir Ali Ave, Park Circus | lat=22.539083 | long=88.365594 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17069862 | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content=Luxury retail, largest apparel store, fine dining, six-screen insignia class multiplex. Restaurants and bars include Chili's and Irish House. }} ==Eat== Major chain restaurants include '''Domino's''' (1/432, Gariahat Rd S ad 62/7, Ballygunge Circular Rd) and '''Haldiram's''' (58, Chowringhee Rd and 24, Ballygunge Park). * {{eat | name=6 Ballygunge Place | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.527863 | long=88.368077 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24603922, +91 99 03975614 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q23043404| wikipedia=6 Ballygunge Place | content=Bengali & North Indian cuisine. Buffet lunch ₹375 (Monday to Friday), ₹425 (Saturday). No drinks. }} * {{eat | name=Amrit National Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=43 Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.525894 | long=88.325416 | directions=Mominpur Bus Stop | phone=+91 33 66343401 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Budget restaurant. Biryani and Mughlai food. }} * {{eat | name=Arsalan | alt= | url= | email= | address=28, Circus Ave | lat=22.541984 | long=88.363626 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22844010, +91 33 22848556 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=ارسلان ریسٹورنٹ کلکت .jpg | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Biryani and Mughlai food. Popular items: firni, mutton kosha, mutton boti kebab, chicken chatpata, mutton biryani, egg chicken roll. They have seven branches: 1. Chinar Park, 2. Anandapur (opposite Calcutta International School), 3. Hatibagan, 4. Park Street Area (Muzaffar Ahmed Road), 5. Park Circus 7-point crossing, 6. New Alipore, and 7. Jessore Road, Bangur. }} * {{eat | name=Azad Hind | alt= | url= | email= | address=12/1, Ballygunge Circular Rd | lat=22.535884 | long=88.356996 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24866475, +91 33 24864742 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Virtually open round the clock | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=North Indian cuisine, street food. Popular items: chicken bharta, tandoori chicken, tandoori aloo, butter naan, dal tadka, rolls, panneer butter masala. No alchohol. }} * {{eat | name=Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick | alt= | url=https://www.balarammullick.com | email=balarammullicksweets@gmail.com | address=2, Puddapukur Rd, Bhowanipore | lat=22.533284 | long=88.346956 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2486 9490, +91 33 2454 0281 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2019-08-22 | content=Offers a wide range of sweets and snacks. Famous for its baked rosogolla. }} * {{eat | name=Balwant Singh's Eating House | alt= | url= | email= | address=10/B, Harish Mukherjee Rd | lat=22.537784 | long=88.344186 | directions= | phone=+91 9903975361 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=closed 3–4AM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=North Indian vegetarian cuisine. Popular items: Tea, lassi, paneer tikka, samosa, dudh cola, kesar chai. No alcohol. }} * {{eat | name=Banana Leaf | alt=A unit of Komala Vilas | url= | email= | address=74-75, Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.517243 | long=88.349757 | directions=near Lake Market | phone=+91 33 24641960, +91 33 24640941 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=South Indian vegetarian snacks and thali meal. Great food. Authentic South Indian taste - very different from the road side stalls catering to Bengali taste. }} * {{eat | name=Bhojohori Manna | alt= | url=http://bhojohorimanna.com/ | email= | address= | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | phone=+91 33 24663941, +91 33 24667686 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic and traditional Bengali food. Fish and vegetarian speciality - shukto, mochar ghonto, chital macher muitha, chingri macher malaikari, kankra (crab), et al. Mutton Dak Bungalow has become a trade mark. No hard drinks. }} ** {{eat | name=18/1A Hindustan Rd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.520263 | long=88.360997 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-28 | content= }} ** {{eat | name=9/18 Ekdalia Rd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.521063 | long=88.366577 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-28 | content=Mostly for takeaway service. Food also served. }} ** {{eat | name=23A Priyanath Mallick St | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.524354 | long=88.347536 | directions=near Hazra More | phone=+91 33 24545922 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Bijoli Grill | alt= | url=http://www.bijoligrill.com/kolkata.php | email= | phone=+91 33 4003 6606 | tollfree= | fax= | content=Seafood, Chinese and Bengali cuisine. }} ** {{eat | name=38, SP Mukherjee Rd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.527084 | long=88.345656 | directions= | hours= Noon-10PM | price= | content= }} ** {{eat | name=124B, Southern Ave | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.514263 | long=88.363237 | directions= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Coastal Macha | alt= | url= | email= | address=55, Southern Ave | lat=22.513263 | long=88.349337 | directions= | phone=+91 33 3099 1254 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=Indian seafood, South Indian, Keralian, Maharashtrian. }} * {{eat | name=Chinese Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=P 21 Old Ballygunge Rd | lat=22.528863 | long=88.365987 | directions=at Ballygunge Phari crossing | phone=+91 33 2283 3093, +91 9836627306 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:30PM | price= | content=Chinese and Thai cuisine. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=The Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ballygunge Phari | lat=22.528353 | long=88.365777 | directions= | phone=+91 8017779607, +91 9903000353 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM-11PM | price= | content=North Indian and Chinese cuisine. Try out the Punjabi speciality;''makka di roti'' and ''sarson di saag'' }} * {{eat | name=Drop In | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ground Floor, Ideal Towers, 57, Block A, Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.531794 | long=88.326716 | directions= | phone=+91 9073309928, +91 9073309929 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7:30AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=Vegetarian restaurant. Indian and Chinese cuisine. Popular items: lassi, naan, paneer tikka masala, roti, thali. }} * {{eat | name=Fung Shway | alt= | url= | email= | address=122A, Southern Ave | lat=22.514163 | long=88.362457 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4065 9510 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=Thai, Chinese, etc. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram | alt= | url= | email= | address=84A, Shambhunath Pandit St | lat=22.538084 | long=88.345996 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2455 2357 | tollfree= | hours=6AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=One of the oldest sweet meat sellers in Kolkata, with a chain of outlets across the city. It is a revered name in the arena of Bengali sweets. Take away only. }} * {{eat | name=Gupta Brothers | alt= | url= | email= | address=82A, Shambhunath Pandit Rd | lat=22.537984 | long=88.345206 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2455 6328, +91 33 2454 8716 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-14 | content=Sweets and casual dining. Popular items: vegetarian thali, gulab jamun, dahi vada, dhania dosa, kulfi, mango lassi and idli. }} * {{eat | name=Kasturi Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=13/6B Anil Moitro Rd | lat=22.524313 | long=88.368597 | directions=near Patha Bhaban Montessori School | phone=+91 33 2440 0039, +91 8334922228 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:45AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Dhakai cuisine. Speciality - bhetki paturi, biryani, mochar ghonto, kochu pata chingri bhapa, jhuri alu bhaja, mutton kosha, kosha mangsho. }} * {{eat | name=Khawab | alt= | url= | email= | address=166A, Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.519163 | long=88.352187 | directions=near National High School For Girls | phone=+91 9836033337, +91 9874246629, +91 33 24669695 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hyderabadi Mutton Biryani, Mutton Rogan Josh. }} * {{eat | name=Krystal Chopstick | alt= | url= | email= | address=71 H, Hindustan Park | lat=22.518263 | long=88.361897 | directions=opposite Basanti Devi College | phone=+91 33 4060 3022, +91 9831526118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:30PM | price= | content=Chinese cuisine. No drinks. }} * {{eat | name=Kurry Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=176 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.516143 | long=88.352757 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24661979 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Mexican, Italian and other cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Kwality | alt= | url= | email= | address=2A, Gariahat Rd | lat=22.528063 | long=88.366277 | directions=near Ballygunge Phari crossing | phone=+91 33 2460 9982, +91 33 2460 7079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:45PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=One of the earliest posh restaurants in South Kolkata. Authentic North Indian delicacies. Continental and Chinese also served. Drinks available. Payment in cash only. }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja and Maharani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.516513 | long=88.352387 | directions=near the Rashbehari Ave crossing | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=These are two separate kachori shops, near each other. The footpath in front of the shops is always crowded. Their early morning stocks often get exhausted by around 9AM. They also serve later in the day. Anyone going that way must give it a try. Don't miss the jalebis/malpuas after the kachouri-sabzi. The location shown on the map here is that of Maharani, and Maharaja is a little down the road towards the lakes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworth House, 3A, Guru Saday Dutta Rd | lat=22.536913 | long=88.359477 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2283 7964, +91 9330627506 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30-3PM, 7-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Innovative Chinese food. Grand buffets. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Marco Polo | alt= | url= | email= | address=205 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.514763 | long=88.352657 | directions=near Southern Ave crossing | phone=+91 33 2463 0909 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-11:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=Continental and North Indian cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Mirch Masala | alt= | url=http://mirch-masala.in/ | email= | address=49/2 Gariahat Rd | lat=22.523184 | long=88.364596 | directions=near Pantaloons | phone=+91 9830644484, +91 33 24618900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Great Punjabi food, also has a Chinese restaurant. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Mitra Cafe | alt= | url=http://mitracafe.co.in/ | email= | address=23/37 Gariahat Rd | lat=22.515563 | long=88.367127 | directions= | phone=+91 90076 95923 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-12 | content=North Indian fast food. Speciality - fish kaviraji, mutton chops, rolls, pakoda, mutton kaviraji, chowmein, pudding. }} * {{eat | name=Only Alibaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=28A, Syed Amir Ali Ave | lat=22.540784 | long=88.365426 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4070 1109 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-4:30PM, 7-11PM | price= | content=Biryani and Mughlai food. The food has a good taste in the main shop but in their fry king outlet at Baghajatin some items are bad and unpalatable. }} * {{eat | name=Oudh 1590 | alt= | url=http://oudh1590.com/ | email= | address=23/B, Deshapriya Park and also at P-562, Hemanta Mukhopadhyay Sarani (behind Vivekananda Park) | lat=22.518543 | long=88.350257 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=Period dining experience - try it out. }} * {{eat | name=Padmaparer Rannaghar | alt= | url= | email= | address=26/4 Gariahat Rd | lat=22.518363 | long=88.365457 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2419 8916 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10PM | price= | lastedit=2018-03-16 | content=Bengali and South Indian cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Pepper Chino | alt= | url= | email= | address=37 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.534064 | long=88.353256 | directions=opposite Lakshmi Narayan Temple | phone=+91 33 6555 2051, +91 7004985103 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-4AM | price= | content=North Indian Continental and Chinese cuisine. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Prema Vilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=63/1, Lake Market | lat=22.517143 | long=88.348957 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2463 1961 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=South Indian vegetarian. }} * {{eat | name=Sangu Valley Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=6A, SP Mukherjee Rd | lat=22.528454 | long=88.345336 | directions= | phone=+91 9831361928, +91 8583962171 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | content=North Indian, Chinese cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=South India Club Canteen | alt= | url=http://calcuttasouthindiaclub.com/ | email= | address=70 B, Hindustan Park | lat=22.518363 | long=88.362757 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24640927 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Budget restaurant. The place is not posh but has tasty food. }} * {{eat | name=Subway | alt= | url= | email= | address=Merlin Homeland, 18B, Asutosh Mukherjee Road | lat=22.536284 | long=88.345586 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4004 7412, +91 33 2454 2234 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=Healthy food, salad, fast foods. Popular items: Sandwiches, Chicken Wrap, Chicken Tikka Sub. No alcohol. }} * {{eat | name=Tamarind | alt= | url= | email= | address=177 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.518513 | long=88.351857 | directions=near Deshapriya Park | phone=+91 33 66343960 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=South Indian mon-vegetarian. Snacks like idli and dosa are not available. Specialised main meal dishes. Enjoy Keralite food, Coorgi dishes et al. }} * {{eat | name=Tangra Kaizen | alt= | url= | email= | address=33B, Sarat Bose Rd, Paddapukur | lat=22.534544 | long=88.353356 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2474 4358 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=Chinese and Thai cuisine. Drinks served. Only cash payment. }} * {{eat | name=Tero Parban | alt= | url= | email= | address=49C Purna Das Rd | lat=22.516863 | long=88.362657 | directions=Near Gol Park | phone=+91 33 2464 0199, +91 9830432175 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10:30PM | price= | content=Bengali cuisine with the ambience of a traditional Bengali home. }} * {{eat | name=Zeeshan | alt= | url= | email= | address=17 Syed Amir Ali Ave | lat=22.541384 | long=88.365926 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22806842, +91 9903611112 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-midnight | price= | content=Zeeshan has several outlets mostly for takeaway customers: 1. Deshapriya Park, 2. Kidderpore, 3. Garia, 4. Lake Market Area, 5. Ballygunge, 6. Tollygunge, 7. Esplanade, 8. College Street.<br/>Biryani and Mughlai food. Popular items: biryani, rolls, firni, murg reshmi kabab, mutton tikka, mutton chaap, tandoori chicken. }} * {{eat | name=Zeeshan | alt= | url= | email= | address=187 Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.516343 | long=88.352387 | directions=near Deshapriya Park | phone=+91 33 2464 4224, +91 7604066539 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11PM| price= | content=Great Mughlai food, take away only. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mocha | alt= | url= | email= | address=AJC Bose Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Underground | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Hindusthan International | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Fern Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.5209 | long=88.3681 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24407797, +91 9831477704 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komala Vilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=74&75 Rashbehari Ave | lat=22.5170 | long=88.3492| directions= | phone=+91 33 24641960| fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel MB International | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/115310 | email= | address=195b, New Park St | lat=22.541811 | long=88.367826 | directions= | phone=+91 12462 01612 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,080 | wikidata=Q111123501 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Platinum | alt= | url=http://hotelplatinum.co.in | email= | address=14, Syed Amir Ali Ave | lat=22.5417 | long=88.365696 | directions= | phone=+91 89610 50299 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹1,360-2,050 | wikidata=Q111123499 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Park Inn | alt= | url=http://en.directrooms.com/hotels/info/1-27-155-80427/ | email= | address=10/1 Tal Bagan Ln | lat= 22.5411| long=88.3683 | directions= | phone= | fax=| price= US$20 for standard double bedded room | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sharani Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=71/K Hindustan Park, Gariahat | lat=22.5182 | long=88.3626 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24635717, +91 33 24641999, +91 33 24644971 | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Gariahat Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=19, Garcha Rd, Dover Terrace | lat=22.51879 | long=88.365256 | directions= | phone=+91 72589 86668 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111055215 | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Cornfield Retreat | alt= | url=https://www.kolkatahomestay.com | email=bookings@kolkatahomestay.com | address=8/1C, Cornfield Road | lat=22.52195 | long=88.36857 | directions= | phone=+91 9830 555 145 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹849 | image= | lastedit=2024-10-03 | content=Single, couple and family options. Air-conditioning, fibre-optic WiFi, streaming enabled. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=The Best Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=1B, Sushil Sen Rd | lat=22.5363 | long=88.3453 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24549101 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,000-3,000 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=Amenities include air-conditioning, telephone, internet connectivity, TV (Cable), laundry service, housekeeping, room service, continental breakfast. Deluxe Suite (King size Double Bed)/Deluxe Queen (Queen Double Bed)/Deluxe Twin (two single beds) rooms with attached bathrooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Fortuna Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.casafortunahotel.com/ | email=resvn@casafortunahotel.com | address=234/1A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5410 | long=88.3555 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4021 8000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Deluxe single ₹5,000, Deluxe double ₹6,000 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Central Bed & Breakfast | url=http://www.centralbnb.com | email=j@centralbnb.com | address=7th Floor, Lansdowne Court, 5B, Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.54022 | long=88.3544 | directions=near Minto Park | phone=+91 9836465400 | fax= | hours= | price=₹2,699| checkin=Noon | checkout=10AM | content=10-minute drive from Park Street and 1 minute from Minto Park. It’s on the 7th floor of a residential apartment. 4 bedrooms with free WiFi, attached bathrooms, common kitchen. All rooms are air-conditioned. Owners live in the same building. Great location, safe, and 24/7 security. Recommended for backpackers. }} * {{sleep | name=Kalighat Pilgrimage Facilitation Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,000–2,200 per room | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Samilton | alt= | url=http://www.samiltonhotel.com/ | email= | address=35A, Sarat Bose Rd | lat=22.5338 | long=88.3532 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40932000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-4,500 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Lee International | alt= | url=https://thesparkhotels.com/hotel_details/hotel-lee-international | email=booking.hotellee@thesparkhotels.com | address=53/D1, Tiljala Rd | lat=22.53889 | long=88.37625 | directions= | phone=+91 33 23431678, +91 33 23431679 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹2,580-4,095 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Mrs. Dam's Guesthouse | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2290 4533 | fax= | hours= | price=₹2000 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Modern, prettily furnished rooms with attached bath, air-con, TV, etc. in a quiet, safe neighborhood. Helpful owner lives in the same building, and is a handy source for tips on what to see/where to go in Kolkata. They also have a great cook, so make sure you try a home-cooked Bengali meal when you're there. }} * {{sleep | name=The Red Carpet | alt= | url= | email= | address=P-399, Keyatala Ln | lat=22.5159 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40086847 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,500 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Blue Chip | alt= | url=http://www.bluechipguesthouse.in/ | email= | address=99/5/13, Dr Amiya Bose Sarani | lat=22.52795 | long=88.36803 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2460 3983 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Basera Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=128C, Southern Ave, Golpark | lat=22.51524 | long=88.36541 | directions= | phone=+91 90515 66883 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content= }} ===Splurge=== *{{sleep | name=Bodhi Tree Boutique Guesthouse | url=http://bodhitree-cal.spaces.live.com | email= | address=48/44, Swiss Park, | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2424 6534 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2424 1598| hours= | price=| checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Hindustan International | alt= | url=http://www.hindusthan.com | email= | address=AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5409 | long=88.3506 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹5,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Bengal | alt= | url=https://taj.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-bengal-kolkata/ | email=bengal.calcutta@tajhotels.com | address=34B, Belvedere Rd, Alipore | lat=22.53738 | long=88.33394 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2223 3939, +91 33 6612 3939, +91 33 2223 1193 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2223 1766 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q110942881 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A deluxe hotel and is amongst the top hotels in Kolkata. The restaurants are also open to non-residents. The hotel has 200 rooms and 29 suites, with terracotta statuary and palm-covered atrium lobby. It has fine dining restaurants such as Cal27, Sonargaon, Souk, Chinoiseire and The Chambers, along with an al fresco area and banquet halls. }} * {{sleep | name=Roland Hotel | alt= | url=https://rolandhotel.com | email=info@rolandhotel.com | address=28A, Rowland Rd, Rowland Row, Ballygunge | lat=22.536324 | long=88.354110 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2475-7780 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | image= | lastedit=2025-02-10 | content= }} == Connect == * {{listing | name=Kolkata Metropolitan Library | alt= | url= | email= | address=2, Ballygunge Park Rd | lat=22.53425 | long=88.36564 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2287-2004 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content= }} * {{Listing | name=Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture | alt= | url=http://sriramakrishna.org/ | email=rmic@vsnl.com | address=Golpark | lat=22.5149 | long=88.3662 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2464 1307 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7288805 | lastedit=2022-07-19 | content=Houses a bookstore and a library, among other amenities, with Ramakrishna-Vivekananda literature. It has an auditorium and a well-maintained guest house. }} * {{listing | name=Sarat Bose Road Post Office| alt= | url=http://indiapost.gov.in | email= | address=Raja Basanta Roy Rd, Southern Ave, Ballygunge | lat=22.51397 | long=88.35284| directions= | phone=+91 33 2466 3126| hours= | price=| content= }} ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Alipore police station | lat=22.52825 | long=88.33623 | phone=+91 33 24791021 }} * {{listing | name=Ballygunge police station | lat=22.53022 | long=88.35395 | phone=+91 33 24543179, +91 33 24542100, +91 33 24862601 }} * {{listing | name=Bhowanipore police station | lat=22.52683 | long=88.34598 | phone=+91 33 24558092, +91 33 24541100, +91 33 24862711 }} * {{listing | name=Gariahat police station | lat=22.52126 | long=88.36418 | phone=+91 33 24863702 }} ==Go next== {{routebox | placename=South Kolkata | image1=Baruipur–Namkhana Line.svg | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=N | majorl1=END | minorl1= | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Bakkhali]] | minorr1=[[Jaynagar Majilpur]] | image2=Kolkata Circular Railway.svg | imagesize2=100 | directionl2=N | majorl2=[[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] | minorl2=[[Kolkata/Maidan|Maidan]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Kolkata/Far North|Far North Kolkata]] | minorr2=[[Kolkata/East|East Kolkata]] | image3=Kolkata Metro Blue Line text icon.svg | imagesize3=100 | directionl3=N | majorl3=[[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]] | minorl3=[[Kolkata/Central|Central Kolkata]] | directionr3=S | majorr3=END | minorr3= }} {{usabledistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.530|88.342|zoom=14}} l5m3o44o910lg5bcbfgcox86aw6uvgu 0 18381 5091222 5039203 2025-07-11T07:08:38Z DaGizza 162256 /* Adventure sports */ Updated listing for Kuching Kayaking 5091222 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Kuching Wikivoyage banner.jpg|dotm=yes}} '''Kuching''' is the capital and largest city of the East Malaysian state of [[Sarawak]] and the district of Kuching. Kuching is small enough to walk around but interesting enough to keep you there for several days, and a good base for exploring Sarawak. ==Understand== [[File:Kuching Riverfront Dusk.JPG|thumb|300px|Kuching riverfront at dusk]] Once the capital of the White Rajahs of Sarawak, it has a population of some 642,000 (2023). It's safe and relatively clean. The name of the city, Kuching, is thought to be derived from the Malay word ''kucing'', meaning '''cat'''. Many of the locals refer to Kuching as the "Cat City" but it more likely comes from the Chinese word for port ("cochin") coupled with the Malay name ''mata kucing'' (cat's-eye) for the ''longan'' fruit, a popular trade item. The people of Kuching take pride in their clean, attractive, and multicultural city, so be prepared for a totally different experience compared to West Malaysia. ===History=== [[File:Kuching Skyline.jpg|thumb|250px|Kuching Skyline]] The earliest evidence of human habitation in the area around Kuching came in the form of Chinese ceramics found at Santubong which date back to the 8th century CE. The Bruneian Empire ruled the area when antimony ore was discovered near Kuching, which was exploited and the area developed in the 1820s. When the Brunei Sultan increased taxes on people living in the area, civil unrest ensued, and the sultanate enlisted the help of a British sailor and adventurer named James Brooke to put down the rebellion. He accepted, and being successful, was made governor of Sarawak. With some political manipulation and standover tactics courtesy of British naval power, Brooke became Rajah of Sarawak and built The Astana palace on the Kuching River in Kuching. This began the rule of the White Rajahs of Sarawak, with the Brooke family ruling it as their personal kingdom from 1846 until 1941. After the Kuching airstrip was held for as long as possible, Kuching was surrendered to the Japanese forces on 24 December 1941, and Sarawak was annexed into the [[Japanese colonial empire|Japanese Empire]] until the official Japanese surrender on 11 September 1945 on board the Australian naval vessel HMAS Kapunda at Kuching. From March 1942 the Japanese operated a prisoner-of-war and civilian internee camp at Batu Lintang, 5 km (3 miles) outside Kuching. Many Chinese left Kuching for the interior during the occupation, to lessen their contact with the Japanese. The third and last Rajah, Sir Charles Vyner Brooke ceded Sarawak to the British Crown in 1946. Sarawak and the British Commonwealth fought an "Undeclared War" with Indonesia to keep Sarawak from being absorbed into Sukarno's Indonesia. The British gave Sarawak independence in 1963 and together with North Borneo (now Sabah) and Singapore, helped form Malaysia on 16 September 1963. Kuching was where Sarawak's communist insurgency was founded in 1951. Their armed struggle for an independent, communist Sarawak ended in 1990. ===People=== Kuching prides itself on being one of the most multi-racial cities in Malaysia. The Chinese speak Hokkien, Hakka and Foochow. Other notable "dialect" groups among the Chinese include the Cantonese, Teochew, Hainanese and Heng Hua. The Malays, who are comprised of Kuching's original inhabitants as well as migrants from neighboring Indonesia, form only slightly less of the population than the Chinese, while Ibans form about 5% of the population. There are also original Indian migrants who have lived in Kuching for many decades. The Indians are divided evenly between Tamils, Sikhs and Punjabis. The remainder are other indigenous races, most notably the Bidayuhs, Melanaus, Javanese and Orang Ulu settlers. What makes Kuching city unique from other towns in Sarawak is, Kuching city population does not reflect the true demography of the whole Sarawak. Most people of Chinese descent live in South Kuching area, like Padungan and Pending. The Malay mostly live at North Kuching area, and are spread evenly throughout South Kuching area. Other races like Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau and Orang Ulu are spread evenly throughout Padawan and some at South and North Kuching. Indian communities of Tamil descent mostly live at Batu Lintang and Gita area, while Javanese communities mostly live at Mile 20 Kuching-Serian Road, Rantau Panjang (Batu Kawa) and Kg. Kolong at Matang. ===Climate=== Kuching enjoys sunshine throughout the year like any other tropical rainforest climate. There's no dry season and no pronounced summer or winter; it typically averages around 26°C, and rainfall is both heavy and frequent. One day can be very similar to the next. It is drier in July and August and wetter between November and February, the time of the Landas (monsoon). However, this does not hinder tourists' activities. ===Holidays=== Kuching, and Sarawak as a whole celebrate all Federal holidays except Deepavali. Sarawak has also declared holidays for Good Friday (1 day) and Gawai Day (2 days). Unlike other states in Malaysia, not all Islamic events are declared as a holiday, other than Hari Raya Aidilfitri (2 days), Hari Raya Aidiladha (1 day), Maulud Nabi (1 day) and Awal Muharram (1 day). Avoid touring to the Santubong area during the first day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri as there will be heavy traffic on the way at Petra Jaya. Tourists can expect a large local celebration for major holidays such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Gawai Day. Gawai is a local ritualistic celebration similar to a ''harvest celebration'' with proceedings commencing around sunset on the evening of 31 May. It is an officially recognised holiday only in Sarawak and the subsequent celebrations may last for several days. ===Orientation=== Kuching city can be divided into a few areas: * '''Padawan''' - It's a small town on the outskirts of Kuching. It's known for its traditional Bidayuh kampungs and longhouses. This area is home for multiracial communities such as Bidayuhs, Javanese, Malay, Chinese, Iban & Orang Ulu residents. * '''Kota Sentosa''' - Before being named Kota Sentosa, Kota Sentosa was called (now colloquially) 'Batu Tujuh' or 7th Mile. This area is a commercial hub for people from Batu Kitang, Kg. Haji Baki and surrounding areas. Sarawak Mental Hospital is also here. Kota Sentosa has also grown its importance due to its vicinity of Army Camps. * '''BDC''' - BDC was long time ago a remote housing area. However, today it has grown importance as a commercial hub for Stutong and Tabuan Heights area and also a growing elite housing areas. * '''Tabuan Jaya''' - Tabuan Jaya, like BDC, was long time ago a remote housing area. Today, it has emerged into Kuching satellite city. It is also well connected to other important areas in Kuching such as Pending, BDC, Muara Tabuan Industrial Estate and Demak Jaya Industrial Estate. * '''Pending''' - Pending is an industrial area with connecting wharf, ports & harbour. It is a mostly Chinese majority populated area of the white & blue collar middle working class, living in sub-areas of Kenyalang Park & Bintawa. Major industrial players here with their factory setup, among them are Komag, CMS Concrete, Taiyo-Yuden, Kuching Plywood, Gold Coin Fertilizer and Sarawak Clinker Plant. Pending is connected to Kuching city centre via Padungan. * '''Batu Kawa''' - Batu Kawa got its name from volcano crater found at Gunung Serapi. It has now emerged into important satellite city of Kuching, which consist of MJC Commercial Area (with condominium housing, elite housing areas and shoplots), Sg. Maong and Pekan Rantau Panjang. * '''Matang''' - Matang is another emerging town under Kuching. Among its prominent attraction is Matang Jaya and Gita. * [[File:A five foot way in Kuching, Sarawak.jpg|thumb|A typical covered footpath in the Padungan area]]'''3rd Mile''' - An emerging commercial area once the home to Sunny Hill School, Sarawak's first private school, and also an old-fashioned cinema, Capitol Cinema. 3rd Mile was once an important train route in Kuching. * '''Padungan''' - Padungan is the oldest commercial & shopping hub in Kuching. Chinatown is here. It's also an important area for nightlife and clubbing, 4-5 star hotels such as Crowne Plaza, Grand Margherita (formerly Holiday Inn), Hilton, Pullman, Somerset Gateway and Novotel, popular tourist spots such as Kuching Waterfront and Cat statues. * '''Simpang Tiga''' - Simpang Tiga is famous with its federal government complex, Swinburne University and "The Spring" shopping mall. * '''Satok''' - Satok is the most widely spoken place among tourists for its weekend market. It is also the smallest DUN (State Legislative) area in Sarawak. * '''Petra Jaya''' - Petra Jaya is home for majority of Malay population in Kuching, and most probably in Sarawak. It has a lot of Malay kampungs, low-cost housing schemes, housing estates and it is also a headquarters for Sarawak state government, which is an idea later copied by Federal Government for their Putrajaya. Petra Jaya consist of area from Kg. Tupong to Semariang to Demak Laut Industrial Estate. * '''Santubong''' - Santubong is 30 km away from Kuching. It is a tourist spot for beach and annual international events such as the World Rainforest Music Festival. ===Visitor information=== * {{listing | name=Visitor Information Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=in the complex of buildings at Barrack and Jln. Gambier | lat=1.559548 | long=110.345095 | directions=by the Renee Margaret Museum | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-02-12 | content= }} ==Talk== Kuching is a very multicultural place, and most locals speak at least [[Malay phrasebook|Malay]] and their ethnic tongue, with quite a number able to speak a decent level of English as well. This is due to the fact all Kuchingites take English as a second or third language. The ability to speak either Malay, English or Mandarin is usually enough for someone in Kuching to get by. {{infobox|Speaking Malay in Kuching|Please notice some basic communication terms in Bahasa Melayu Sarawak. * '''Kamek''' - ''I'' * '''Kitak''' - ''You'' * '''Auk''' - ''Yes'' * '''Sik''' - ''No'' * '''Igek''' - ''Piece'' * '''Kamek mauk pergi jamban dolok''' - ''I would like to go to the toilet'' * '''Kitak dari siney?''' - ''Where are you from?'' * '''Nyaman juak makanan tok''' - ''This food is quite tasty'' * '''Kamek ngupok/mupok dolok''' - ''I'd like to make a move'' * '''Nama'''-''Name'' * '''Maok'''-''Want'' * '''Jamban'''-''Toilet'' * '''Duit'''-''Money'' }} While standard Malay is well understood, the local dialect, known as '''"Bahasa Melayu Sarawak"''', is different enough to be officially categorized as its own language. Malays from coastal part of Sarawak, especially those from Sebuyau, Kabong, Saratok, Betong, Sri Aman and the surrounding areas speak different dialect called '''"Bahasa Orang Laut"'''. Malays from Sibu and Miri speak similar language with Kuchingites Malay, but they have some terms unique to their dialect, for example "Pia" in Sibu (in Kuching, they called it "Sia", which means "there"), "Cali" in Miri (in Kuching, they called it "Jenaka", which means "funny"). However, Bahasa Melayu spoken in Limbang and Lawas is a distant difference from Bahasa Melayu Sarawak spoken throughout Kuching-Miri. Most Chinese in Kuching speak [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]] (Minnan) as their native tongue, but [[Mandarin phrasebook|Mandarin]] is the medium of instruction in Chinese schools and spoken by most Chinese in Kuching. The [[Iban phrasebook|Iban language]] is spoken by some Iban people in Kuching, but almost all of them also understand Malay. You may also encounter speakers of other tribal languages like [[Bidayuh phrasebook|Bidayuh]], [[Melanau phrasebook|Melanau]] and Orang Ulu. The lack of homogeneous language used by the peoples is also clearly reflected around the city. Signs such as road names are written in Malay and Chinese. Street signs are in Malay. Shop names and other private signs are usually written in Malay, English or/and Chinese. ==Get in== As Kuching is in [[Sarawak]], which retains control of its own immigration procedures, some additional complications apply and an ordinary Malaysian visa may not suffice. Most visitors, though, can get visas on arrival at Kuching International Airport. See [[Sarawak#Get in|Sarawak]] for details. ===By plane=== * [[File:Kuching International Airport at Night.jpg|thumb|Kuching airport at night]]{{go | name=Kuching International Airport | alt={{IATA|KCH}} | url=http://www.malaysiaairports.com.my/index.php/domestic/sandakan-airport/178 | email= | address= | lat=1.484444 | long=110.346667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kuching International Airport | wikidata=Q1305028 | lastedit=2022-10-22 | content=It is Sarawak's main gateway. There are near-hourly connections from [[Kuala Lumpur]] and frequent flights from [[Singapore]], [[Johor Bahru]], [[Labuan]], [[Kota Kinabalu]] and other cities in Sarawak like [[Sibu]], [[Bintulu]] and [[Miri]]. '''[http://www.maswings.com.my MASwings]''' links Kuching with Mukah. International connections are limited to Singapore and Jakarta. Flights to Kuching are also operated by '''[http://www.airasia.com AirAsia]''' and '''[http://www.fireflyz.com.my Firefly]'''. International airlines operating in Kuching include [https://www.flyscoot.com Scoot], and Wings Air. As of Mid-2023 there are no longer any flights to [[Pontianak]]. }} The airport is modern and pleasant. Passengers onboard all flights leading out of Sarawak (including Peninsular Malaysia, [[Labuan]] and [[Sabah]]) must head through passport control. On the airside, all domestic flights (both within and outside Sarawak) are on the lower concourse (second floor, airside) and the few international flights are on the upper concourse (third floor, airside). The three gates on the upper concourse (H7, H8 and H9) lead to the holding rooms for gates 7, 8 and 9 below, respectively. There are neither shops nor restaurants on the upper concourse, so international passengers will not have the benefits of domestic ones (unless you are lucky enough to have a heavily delayed flight and the airport grants you access to the lower concourse). Meanwhile, the lower concourse has gates R1-R3 and 1–9. Gates R1-R3 on one end are used by MASwings flights (i.e. that requires passengers to walk on the taxiway to their plane), 1-4 are usually used by AirAsia, Firefly and other budget airlines, and the remaining gates (5-9) by other airlines. Shops, restaurants and makeshift shop stalls are found between gates 4 and 7, including Marrybrown fast food near gate 4 and Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf near the holding room for gate 7. Walking from gate R1 to gate 9 takes about 10 minutes. In the arrival hall (ground floor, landside), there are several restaurants, including the ''kopitiam'' 'OldTown White Coffee' at one end and a McDonald's outlet beside the escalators. In the departure hall (second floor, landside), there are KFC and Starbucks outlets. '''Getting there:''' Kuching city is about 20 min away by taxi. During rush hour, early in the morning when school starts and in the afternoon when school ends, the trip of just 8 km can take up to 1 hour. For a fixed rate of RM30 (2024). From the city you can get a private vehicle for around RM20 or catch a mini bus (RM7.99 for Tune guests); RM10 for others. must be booked at least 1 day in advance leaving hourly from 8:30AM-evening. A cheaper option is taking Uber or GrabCar from the airport, which will cost about RM20 (2019). The Sarawak Transport Company's (STC) bus 12A no longer serves the 5 daily trips between the airport and the city centre. There is a series of other buses which can drop you off or pick you up approximately 1 km west of the Airport (turn left as you exit the airport and walk to the main T intersection, turn left again and walk until you reach the big roundabout (also Express bus terminal) and catch a bus heading north to town namely 3A, 6, 8G and 9. The most convenient place to catch these buses back to the airport intersection is at the main bus terminal in the city. ===By boat=== [[File:Kuching express boat terminal 2.jpg|thumb|A boat waiting at the Kuching jetty before a voyage to Sibu]] The ''Express Bahagia'' runs an once daily service from Kuching to '''[[Sibu]]'''. RM55 one way and the journey takes 5–5½ hours, with stops at [[Sarikei]] and Tanjung Manis. The boats depart from the {{marker|type=go|name=Pending Express Boat Jetty|lat=1.554663|long=110.397942|image=Kuching express boat terminal 1.jpg}} to the east of the city at about 08:30, but the exact time varies depending on the tides, so arrive an hour early to buy your tickets just in case. From city centre, City Public Link bus K1 goes to the express boat jetty for RM1. The boat from [[Sibu]] to Kuching leaves daily at 11:30 (March 2016). Bring snacks or buy some at the terminal before you leave, as none are for sale on board. Board early to get a good seat. The boat isn't that big and the waves are choppy, so you might feel seasick—sit upstairs to avoid nausea and for views of the water. You can even sit outside for the fresh air and views, though this also leaves you vulnerable to rain (but you can always go inside when the rain starts). ===By bus=== [[File:Pontianak-Kuching coach at Kuching Sentral.jpg|thumb|A bus for Pontianak at Kuching Sentral]] Kuching's {{marker|type=go|name=regional express bus terminal (or Kuching Sentral)|lat=1.4817|long=110.3324}} also dubbed "3 and a half miles", is south of the city, 1km from the airport. All long-distance express buses arrive from and leave for major Sarawak cities like Sibu, Bintulu and Miri, as well as [[Pontianak]] in [[Indonesia]]. Regional buses for some towns near Kuching such as Lundu (for the Gunung Gading National Park and Tanjung Datu National Park) and Sri Aman also arrive/depart from here. To get to Kuching Sentral from the city centre, go to the city bus terminal near main mosque. Take Sarawak Transport 3A or City Public Link bus K3 with destination Serian (departures every 30 min during daylight hours). City buses do not enter Kuching Sentral bus station: the bus stop is on the main north–south road nearby. Conversely, to get from the bus station to the city center by public transport you will need to brave 8 lanes of traffic on that road to get to the bus stop on the other side. Buses for some towns and destinations nearer Kuching, such as the [[Bako National Park]], Bau and the Semenggoh Orang Utan Centre, leave from various locations in the city centre near main mosque, depending on the bus company being used. See the individual destinations below for details. *'''From [[Bako National Park]]:''' BusAsia (red) bus No. 1 departs from the open air market near Electra House in the city centre. RM1 one way, journey time 45 min. There are also public mini buses, more expensive and a little bit faster and more regular. The buses bring you to Bako Bazaar where you pay your RM10 park entrance fee and transfer to a boat to reach the national park. Boat costs RM47 one way and can carry up to 5 people. See [[Bako National Park]] page for details. *'''From Sematan and [[Lundu]]:''' CPL (yellow and green) depart from Boulevard at 8AM and 4:30PM. Buses depart Sematan at 7AM and 4PM for RM1 one way. Travel time approximately 2 hr. At Lundu, take a taxi or van or walk approximately 2.5 km (north) to the Gunung Gading National Park. For Tanjung Datu National Park, catch a connecting Sarawak Transport Company bus to Sematan where you will have to charter a boat to the park. *'''From [[Pontianak]]:''' ** {{listing | name=Bus Asia | alt=Biaramas Express | url=https://busasia.my/busasia/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 456999 (at the regional bus terminal), +60 82 610111 (headquarters) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Buses depart Kuching Sentral Bus Terminal for Pontianak via the Tebedu-Entikong border crossing daily at 10:00AM. RM80 per adult 1 way. From Pontianak, buses depart daily at 8:00AM. Fare is Rp 270,000. }} ** {{listing | name=SJS Super Executive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Buses departs the regional bus terminal at 11AM and cost RM70. See the [[Pontianak to Kuching]] for travel itinerary detail of this route. }} *'''From [[Semenggoh]]:''' Feeding times for the Orangutans are 9AM and 3PM so catch the 7:30AM or 1PM bus. Kuching Metro buses No.103 depart from Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) and Green K6 depart from near the mosque. Also there are plenty of mini buses at the open air market that can drive you there, public RM5-10/passenger) and also more expensive mini bus taxies, bargaining starts from RM100 for the whole bus for return journey. *'''From [[Sibu]]:''' Various express buses depart from the regional bus terminal. Most of them go via Sarikei. ===By car=== ====From [[Indonesia]]==== To travel by car from Indonesia is pretty straight forward. As a member of Asean, an Indonesian driving license is legal and accepted in Malaysia. Please see the [[Pontianak to Kuching]] for travel itinerary on this route. ====From Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam==== Sarawak is a huge state. The road networks connecting towns and places in Sarawak including Kuching are well maintained. However, long and winding roads with few rest stops can lead to fatigue. The following table lists towns and their distances (Km) from Kuching, together with suggested rest stops. {| class="wikitable" |+ '''Distance Table from Kuching to other towns in Sarawak''' ! From !! To !! Distance !Cumulative distance from Kuching!! Rest Stops |- | Kuching || Sri Aman || 193 | || Siburan, Tapah, Beratok, Tarat, '''Serian''', Balai Ringin, Lachau |- | Sri Aman || Sarikei || 179 |372|| Engkilili, '''Betong''', '''Saratok''' |- | Sarikei || Sibu || 90 |462|| Meradong, Julau, Pakan, Jakar |- | Sibu || Bintulu || 202 |644|| Stapang, '''Selangau''', '''Tatau''' |- | Bintulu || Miri || 198 |842|| Suai, '''Batu Niah''', Sibuti, Bekenu, Bakam |- | Miri || Limbang || 230 |1072|| Sg. Tujuh, Kuala Belait (Brunei), Seria (Brunei), Tutong (Brunei), '''Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei)''' |- | Limbang || Lawas || 128 |1200|| '''Bangar, Temburong (Brunei)''', Sundar, Trusan |} Sabahan people as well as from Brunei can also commute freely to Kuching using Pan Borneo Highway network. However, you will have to pass through immigration multiple times: at the Sabah-Sarawak border and at the Malaysia-Brunei border. Bruneian commuters have to produce a driving permit, which is obtained simply by filling a form at the Malaysian border checkpoint. A Bruneian driving license is a valid for driving in Malaysia. ===By helicopter=== For those who can afford it, private helicopters and aircraft are available for charter from [https://www.hornbillskyways.com/passenger.php Hornbill Skyways]. ==Get around== {{mapframe}} ===By bus=== Local bus fares are RM1 under RM1 Flat Rate Bus Fare Programme. Meanwhile, Sarawak Metro and Kuching Metro are '''free of charge'''. The stage buses between Kuching and its outskirts like Petra Jaya, Serian, Bau and so forth, have not been replaced with new buses. The main bus terminal for local bus in Kuching is Boulevard for CPL and Electra House for BusAsia. However, there is another bus terminal for inter-state departure which is at 3rd Mile Bus Terminal. You should take your bus to Sibu, Bintulu and Miri from this terminal. Check the usual online agents such as [https://12go.asia 12GO] for online booking. Local buses are run by 5 different companies, but there's a reasonably logical route numbering system and bus stops usually have some signage indicating bus route numbers. * '''Bau Transport Company''' - these brown and red buses serve the Kuching-Bau route. * '''City Public Link (CPL)''' - these yellow and green buses serve for Kuching, Samarahan, Serian division. After STC ceased operation, CPL is the only bus company that serving Lundu and Sematan. * '''BusAsia''' - these red buses serve for Kuching, Samarahan and Serian. BusAsia is also serving Bako and Muara Tebas. * '''Kuching Metro''' - Electric buses. The bus route is serving some of the most popular area within Kuching, including Cat Museum, Sarawak Museum, Chinese Museum, airport and more. The bus is departure from Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) to Senmenggoh Wildlife Centre. * '''Sarawak Metro''' - Hydrogen fuel cell buses. Two routes: the Downtown Heritage Loop operates everyday and the Damai Loop only operates on weekends. For buses with a separate conductor, ensure you receive a ticket in case ticket inspectors bord. Buses without a conductor are equipped with a big coin box beside the driver's seat. Ask for the fare first before inserting the exact change into the box. Pickpocketing and sexual harassment might sometimes occur. Sit near the driver if you get that vibe from a fellow passenger. Inconsistent passenger load along certain routes can lead to drops in frequency and thus, bus operators cannot comply to a fixed timetable and that results in frustrating delays. ===By shuttle van=== {{infobox|Caution-Van sapu|Unlicensed shuttle vans also ply the main roads in Kuching, offering lower (if not the same) fares than their legal counterparts. If you are coaxed to board these vans, please do so at your own risk. Due to its illegal operations, ''van sapu'' passengers are not covered by insurance should an accident occur.}} Yellow roofed ''kereta sewa'' or shuttle vans fill the void left by stage bus operators, offering somewhat more frequent trips throughout Kuching to as far as Tebedu and Bau. Each shuttle van has their own commuting routes so watch out the routes by reading the destination on the body of the van. Minimum fare for each trip is RM1 and increases with respect to distance. Fares also differ from one shuttle van to another plying the same route by commuting frequency, peak and off-peak periods and passenger load. If in doubt, ask the ''passengers'', not the driver. ===By taxi=== [[File:Taxi in Kuching 01.JPG|thumb|Taxis in Kuching]] Taxis are somewhat expensive in Kuching. Although taxis are metered, the drivers seldom use it and normally they will try to charge you any fare they like. They may also ''hide'' the meter behind a rudimentary cover and claim to have no meter. Take your time and appraise the honesty of the driver before proceeding. A reasonable taxi fare from Kuching city centre to Santubong is RM42. Some hotels provide their own shuttle vans or buses to designated tourism spots and city centre. Check with your hotel should they provide this kind of service. ===By e-hailing=== E-hailing services including Maxim and Grab are commonplace in Kuching and are a hassle-free way of going around the city and to the airport. However, if you want to go to rural areas outside of Kuching (such as Santubong or Semenggoh), although drivers will take you there, you might not find a Grab to return to the city. It is possible to negotiate a waiting and return fee with the driver. Due to the low fares and the practice of the e-hailing companies of taking a large cut of the fare, some drivers will ask you to cancel the trip in your app once you get in the car, and pay the previously-agreed fare in cash. ===By car=== All major roads in Kuching city and suburban areas are well tarred and fairly maintained. Driving orientation is on the left and is generally slow-paced. Speed limits on dual-carriageway roads can reach a maximum of 90 km/h and can be reduced to 80 km/h or 70 km/h during festival seasons. Some drivers tend to make a turn or overtake without using indicators, and others drive beyond the speed limit. Drive defensively. Self-driving in and around Kuching can be challengingly fun. Directional signs in Kuching are so inadequate. Google Maps offers good navigation in Kuching but you need a mobile internet connection (prepaid prices from RM50/month). ====Car rental==== * {{listing | name=Kuching Airport Car Rental | url=http://www.kuching-carrental.blogspot.com | email=kuchingcarrental79@gmail.com | address=GL42, Ground Floor, Terminal Building, Kuching International Airport | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 14 9999 688, +60 12 892 8000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 8AM-11PM, book online and contact by email or WhatsApp | price=From RM70/day, cash only | content= }} * {{listing | name=Tranzero | alt= | url=http://www.keretasewadikuching.com.my/ | email=keretasewadikuching@gmail.com | address=Jalan Kulas, Satok, Kuching, Sarawak. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 14 687 0107, +60 17 858 8978 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 8AM-11PM, book online and contact by email or SMS | price=From RM65/day, cash only | content= }} * {{listing | name=Kuching City Car Rental | alt=Kuching Car Rental | url= | email=auto@catscity.com.my | address=Ground Floor, Terminal Building, Kuching International Airport | lat= | long= | directions=walk up towards the domestic arrival hall exit | phone=+60 128838318 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Car Rental Kuching | alt=Car Rental Kuching | url=http://www.carrentalkuching.com | email=kelvin@carrentalkuching.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Opposite of the domestic hall exit area | phone=+60 16 8621613 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From RM95/day, accept Visa and Mastercard. | content= }} * {{listing | name=Sime Darby Rent A Car | alt=Hertz Malaysia Licensee | url= | email=kch@hertz.simedarby.com | address=GL20, Ground Floor, Terminal Building, Kuching International Airport | lat= | long= | directions=booth is after you claim your luggage at the airport | phone=+60 82 450740 | tollfree= | fax=+60 82 450741 | hours=M-Sa 8AM-6PM, Su and public holidays meet confirmed reservations | price=From RM150/day, credit/charge cards only | content= }} * {{listing | name=Kuching Car Rental | alt=Kereta Sewa Kuching | url=http://www.kuchingcarrental.com | email=reservation@kuchingcarrental.com | address=AJ 205, 1st Floor, MJC Batu Kawah New Township, Jl. Batu Kawa | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 376 030, +60 82 455 022, +60 16 888 4020 | tollfree= | fax=+60 82 455 422 | hours=Daily 8AM-9PM, call to confirm reservation or book online | price=From RM98/day, credit/charge cards only | content= }} ===By motorcycle=== * {{listing | type=do | name=Three Bikes Rental and Services | alt= | url= | email=threebikesrental@yahoo.com | address=Singgahsana Lodge No.1 Temple St. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 429277 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Teck Hua Motor | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tabuan Rd. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 233957 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=Motorbike rental at RM40, good service, they also have a few automatics for those who can't drive manual. }} ===By bicycle=== It is possible to see the sights of Kuching City by bicycle. You don't have to be Lance Armstrong to take a full day bicycle tour of the city. Roads in Kuching are adequate for cycling, though it is definitely not bicycle friendly. * {{listing | name=Borneo Bicycle Hire | alt= | url= | email=borneobicyclehire@ymail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 19 484 4393 (24 hr contact) | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-7PM including public holidays | price= | content=They provide helmets, rain ponchos, repair kit and maps for doing a city tour by bicycles. Rates are very reasonably priced. If you prefer to start cycling early just after dawn you can rent or hire the bike the night before and bring the bicycle with you, the rental rates only starts in the morning when you begin your cycle tour. Should the hirer prefer another town as their centre for further exploration, they can be taken there, together with their bicycles, in a mini-bus for an additional charge. Full accident/repatriation insurance available from only RM15 + tax. }} ===By river taxi=== [[Image:Kuching boats.jpg|thumb|''Tambangs'' or river taxis provide easy and cheap transport across the Sarawak River in the heart of Kuching.]] For a leisurely commute across the Sarawak River, river taxis locally known as ''tambang'' or ''penambang'' go back and forth across the river at various points along the Kuching Waterfront, with a one-way fare of RM1 (as of 2020). Place the ''exact change'' on the designated plate instead of giving it to the operator, as you disembark the river taxi at your destination. ===By boats=== Boats are sometimes available for visitors who wish to travel from one place to another along the Sarawak River. ===By speedboats=== Speedboats are available for people who wish to go to Taman Negara Bako (National Park), Satang Island and Talang-Talang Island from Santubong. Rate differs according to hotels, and in regards to public holidays and peak hours. Check schedule and rates at the respective hotels, such as Damai Lagoon. ===By cruises=== There are no river cruises anymore. ===On foot=== Kuching is unusually pedestrian-friendly for a Malaysian city, with tree-lined sidewalks and some pedestrian crossings, and the city core is compact enough to cover on foot. Good walks include the '''Kuching Waterfront''' and the pedestrian shopping street of '''Jalan India''' (Kuching's Little India). Drivers rarely stop for pedestrians on zebra crossings if there is no traffic light. However, since most roads are single-directional and have a single lane, crossing the street in Kuching isn't as treacherous as in other cities in [[Southeast Asia]]. ==See== [[Image:Kuching JalanIndia.JPG|thumb|240px|Jalan India]] In Kuching, you can enjoy various sightseeing activities. What is unique of Kuching city in sightseers' eyes is how the skycrapers were built in the vicinity of lush green jungles. Kuching is quite the sunset spot, often regarded as "one of the most memorable". Take your shots, and enjoy the sunsets from the Waterfront, Santubong Peninsula or Bako Peninsula. * '''Tua Pek Kong Temple''', Jl. Padungan (''East end of Main Bazaar''). This temple is the oldest Chinese temple in Kuching and at the heart of the city. It was just at the opposite of Chinese Museum. It was built in 1843. Various festivals are held here for example The Wang Kang Festival (to commemorate the dead) and Ghost Festival. * {{see | name=Kuching City Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.558738 | long=110.34075 | directions=near the open air market | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kuching Town Mosque.jpg | content=Formerly the Sarawak State Mosque, Kuching's main mosque. Later it was re-designated as the Kuching Divisional Mosque. It was built in 1968 on a site that had been used for a wooden mosque as early as 1852. It has a striking design, featuring a combination of mid-western and Italian architecture. }} {{infobox|Please observe religious conventions|Visitors to mosques are requested to dress respectfully and remove their shoes. Non-Muslims should avoid entering during prayer times so as not to disrupt people during periods of religious observance, ''especially on Friday afternoons''.}} * '''Masjid Jamek''', or "Jamek Mosque" at Petra Jaya. It was adjacent to the State Library and housed Dewan Hikmah, a multi-purpose hall, usually for Muslim wedding receptions. It has also some quarters for the Hafizs and the Ustazs. It was the most crowded Mosque in Sarawak due to the location nearby and area where majority of Kuching Muslims reside. It is still a most favourite place for Friday prayers due to the mosque being comfortable and air-conditioned. * '''Medan Raya Complex''' at Petra Jaya. It was planned as the State Government Administrative Centre with a dual-carriageway boulevard linking the Kuching North City Hall and Wisma Bapa Malaysia, but it has only one building on the site called Baitul Makmur, which houses four state ministries. This area is perfect for jogging, walking and sightseeing of romantic (sometimes erotic) couples. A man-made lake lies in the centre of the complex, where locals usually race their RC speed boats after office hours, much to the annoyance of anyone living within the radius of a kilometre. At night, the fine stretch of road crossing the lake often becomes an illegal dragstrip. Come at the wrong time and the long arm of the law awaits you. Be warned. * '''Kuching Waterfront'''. Any visit to Kuching is incomplete without taking a brisk walk at the RM1 million per 10-m strip of Kuching Waterfront. It is the most popular meeting (and mating) place in Kuching. It was once a line of old warehouses. During the daytime, the Waterfront is the best place to view the Astana, Fort Margherita, adjacent Malay kampungs of Kampung Sinjan and Kampung Lintang or even the DUN complex. At night, it is the best place to see nightlife of lovers, youngsters and love-makers. Some food kiosks are also present here but mind the high charges on food. ''My Kampong'' have a small kiosk that serve mee mamak. If you do order traditional Malay food such as grilled fish, be sure to ask them to warm it up. * '''Main Bazaar'''. A very long row of shophouses for Sarawak souvenirs and handicrafts. * '''Taman Budaya''', at Jl. Taman Budaya. Literally meaning 'cultural garden' although the cultural aspect of it remains questionable. Once a reservoir for water storage and hence forever named the ''Kuching Reservoir'', it is a perfect place for jogging, walking and sightseeing and has a big pond. The Kuching Central Prison is just next to this garden, just so you know. * '''Sunday Market''' (''Pasar Minggu''), Jl. Satok in Satok. The Sunday Market comes alive beginning Saturday afternoon and runs until Sunday afternoon. The market is so huge that it might break your legs to walk to every corner of this market. It is divided into many sections such as food, fruits, vegetables, fish (salted ''terubok'' fish is sold here), potted plants, jungle produce, including wild honey, pets, bundle clothing, magazines and even toys. The market is like a huge hypermarket, without air-conditioning. Some word of advice, wear shoes when you are entering fish and chicken areas. Those areas are wet in nature and the traders might not be ashamed to splash some water to your feet. It is open almost every weekend. However, during big celebrations like Gawai, Chinese New Year or Hari Raya, some stalls at ''Pasar Minggu'' are closed. The ''Pasar Tamu'' however, which is part of the market with a permanent roofed structure, operates on a daily basis. * '''The Astana'''. Or the Palace in English, resides the current ''Yang di-Pertua Negeri'' or the Head of State of Sarawak. The palace is situated on the north bank of the river, just across the river from Kuching Waterfront. It was built in 1870 by Charles Brooke as a bridal gift to his wife Margaret. Next to it is {{ marker| type=see | name=Orchid Garden | alt= | address= | lat=1.5660 | long=110.3479 | directions= | hours= | price=free | phone= | tollfree= | url= | email= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} and beautifully decorated garden with observation tower. A sampan deck, which is named Pengkalan Sapi is also situated within the Astana vicinity. * '''Friendship Garden''', at Tabuan Heights. The garden is developed to mark the symbol of friendship between China and Malaysia. The garden is beautifully crafted with small ponds and gardens. Perfect place for sightseeing, feeding the ''koi'' fish and trying your luck at the two wishing wells. * '''Sarawak State Library''' (''Pustaka Negeri''), Petra Jaya, near to Masjid Jamek. For sightseeing purpose, visitors can opt for aerobic sessions hosted every afternoon at the library compound. The lake in front of the library is the most suitable place for aquatic lovers. A lot of fish from different species are bred here. They normally get foods from the visitors, so bring your fish food or bread here. ===Museums=== Many museums are clustered just south of the centre; a program of refurbishment started in 2002 is shuffling up the exhibits. * {{see | name=Sarawak Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.55493 | long=110.34353 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-09-09 | content=The Sarawak State Museum is the oldest museum in Borneo. It was established in 1888 and opened in 1891 in a purpose-built building in Kuching. Sponsored by Charles Brooke, the second White Rajah of Sarawak, the establishment of the museum was strongly encouraged by Alfred Russel Wallace. It now has a large new building and has been renamed to the Borneo Cultures Museum, which houses various ethnic displays and historical items from Sarawak in a modern setting. }} * '''Dewan Tun Abdul Razak''' (''Tun Abdul Razak Hall''), Jl. Tun Abang Haji Openg (''Opposite Sarawak Museum''). Formerly the New Wing of the Sarawak Museum, now houses changing exhibitions, a rather good gift shop and the Sarawak Museum Department office. * {{see | name= Kampung Budaya Sarawak | alt=Sarawak Cultural Village | url=https://scv.com.my/ | email= | address=Pantai Damai Santubong | lat=1.7501 | long=110.3159 | directions=across from Damai Beach Resort | phone=+60 82-846 108 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Adult RM95, child RM60 (online purchase RM85/55) | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content= A living museum that spans 17 acres of land where you can experience the local culture and lifestyles of the various ethnic groups in Sarawak. The annual Rainforest World Music Festival happens each July. }} * '''The Sarawak Islamic Museum'''. It is behind the Tun Abdul Razak Hall and can be accessed via Jl. P. Ramlee. The museum consists of 7 galleries set around a central courtyard garden, each with a different theme. One of the interesting artefacts shown here is a replica of sword used by Prophet Muhammad. Open daily from 9AM-6PM (closed on Fridays). * '''Chinese History Museum''', Waterfront (''east end of Main Bazaar''). A small colonial-era museum that used to be the courthouse for the Sarawakian Chinese, then the office of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce It now houses a small permanent exhibition of Kuching's many Chinese groups. * [[File:Fort Margherita in Kuching sarawak.jpg|thumb|Fort Margherita]]'''Fort Margherita''', Completed in 1879, Fort Margherita resides at a breathtaking and strategic position at the riverside of Sarawak. It was once a defensive structure to protect Kuching from possible attack. Fort Margherita later has been converted into a Police Museum and many of its old cannons, cannonballs, guns, pistols, swords and other vestiges of its armoury and armaments can still be seen. It now is home to The Brooke Gallery, a museum dedicated to the White Rajahs that once ruled Sarawak. It can be accessed by road from the other side of the river, which is Petra Jaya, or by 'tambang' boat from Kuching Waterfront. * '''The Cat Museum'''. This is a large collection of cat memorabilia, since "Kuching" means "Cat" in Malay. The museum is at Kuching North City Hall at Petra Jaya, on top of Bukit Siol (''Siol Hill''). Cat lovers will find all range of exhibits, photos, feline art and cat souvenirs. Some interesting cat characters like Felix the Cat, and Garfield the Cat are also housed here. Entry: adult RM3, child RM2. Open daily 9AM-5PM (closed public holidays). * {{listing | type=see | name=Sarawak Timber Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=resides in the building of Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) Building or Wisma Sumber Alam in Petra Jaya | phone=+60 82 443477 | tollfree= | hours=Mondays to Fridays 8:30AM to 4PM, Saturdays 8:30AM-12:30PM (closed Sundays and public holidays) | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=The museum houses forestry, traditional wood displays, forest-based products and the exhibition of timber industry development in Sarawak. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Sarawak Textile Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in the Pavilion, opposite the General Post Office | phone= | tollfree= | hours= M-F 8:30AM-4PM, Sa 8:30-12:30PM (closed Sundays and public holidays) | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=yet another historical building on its own right }} * '''Pua Kumbu Museum'''. The museum is at Tun Jugah Complex. However, this museum requires early booking/appointment. Refer to Sarawak Tourism Board for contact. * ===Nearby=== * {{see | name=Jong's Crocodile Farm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=30 km from Kuching on the Kuching-Serian Rd | phone=+60 82 242790 | tollfree= | hours=It is open daily from 9AM–5PM, and Sundays from 10AM | price=Admission Charges are RM16 for adults and RM8 for children under 12 | content=The best time to visit is during feeding time. }} * {{see | name=Gunung Gading National Park | directions=3 km north of Lundu which is about two hours by bus or car | phone=+60 82 735714 | price=park entrance RM20 (RM10 for nationals), camping RM5, guided walk RM30 per group | content=home to the world’s largest flower, the parasitic Rafflesia, which can grow up to 1 m in diameter. Rafflesia takes many months to grow and then only blooms for a few days. It is best to check with the park office to avoid disappointment. Even if Rafflesia is not blooming, there are some hikes you can do in the park, see orchids (seasonal) and the world's tallest flower. There are cottages, a dorm and a nice camping area with basic facilities.}} * '''Kubah National Park''', at Matang. This park is famous for its beautiful rocky streams and small waterfall. People from all over Kuching love to gather here especially on hot and sunny days for refreshing and cooling themselves. You can try jungle trekking here where you can see encaged deer and wild boars. ==Do== Kuching is a great home-base for jungle trekking and exploring Borneo. ===Adventure sports=== * {{do | name=Bidayuh Longhouse Adventure | alt= | url=http://www.longhouseadventure.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=at Annah Rais village near Borneo Highland Resort | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They offer overnight packages for you to experience the traditional Bidayuh longhouse communal life. You get to try out all sort of local dishes, home-brewed rice wine, and also lots of activities to keep you occupied, such as tropical rainforest jungle trekking, bamboo rafting, visit to natural hotspring & etc. }} * {{do | name=Kuching Kayaking | alt= | url=http://www.kuchingkayak.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=You can choose to kayak in the Sarawak river (in the city) for a leisurely and unique perspective of Kuching; or you can choose to kayak in the sea where you may bump into dolphins; or you may choose to kayak through the rainforest and experience the sights and sounds of the jungles of Borneo. Whichever you choose, it's an experience you won't soon forget. }} * {{do | name=Scuba Diving | alt= | url=http://www.kuchingscuba.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Dive at Talang-Talang Island to see turtles, or visit the World War II Japanese ship wreck. }} * {{do | name=Qhumang-Balai Ringin Wild Adventure | url= | email=qhumang@gmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=approximately 60 km from Kuching City | phone=+60 12 809 4730 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=River cruising and wild fishing adventure, jungle trekking and natural adventure as well as homestay and wild camping experiences. }} *{{do | name=Kuching Caving | alt= | url=http://www.kuchingcaving.com | email= | address=KuchingCaving@gmail.com | lat= | long= | directions=call or email | phone=+60 128862347 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=0900-2000 | price=From 199 | content=Easy, intermediate and technical day trips through fabulous, deserted caves. The company supplies you with all equipment and protective clothing. }} ===Hiking=== *{{listing |type=do | name=Santubong rainforest | alt= | address= | lat=1.7434 | long=110.3177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8am-10am | price= | url= | email= | content=In the Santubong rainforest you can go on a beautiful, sometimes strenuous and wet hike. Animals such as frogs, lizards and snakes are included. Entry is not possible after 10:00 for security reasons. Trip duration 3 hrs. }} ===Cultural activities=== * {{do | name=Pusat Kemahiran Seni | alt= | url=http://www.scv.com.my/ | email= | address=Sarawak Cultural Village | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A traditional Sarawakian dancing class is available at the village listed under "See", also lessons in playing traditional musical instruments like Sape and craft lesson for beginners. }} * {{do | name=Rainforest World Music Festival | alt= | url=https://rwmf.net/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Late June | price= | wikidata=Q7284881 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=It has been held since 1997 at the Sarawak Cultural Village listed under "See". Accommodation around the festival grounds are snapped up as soon as bookings open so be quick. Good places to stay are Holiday Inn Damai Beach and Damai Lagoon, both a few minutes' walk away from the festival. Or, you can stay within the heart of Kuching city and take the daily shuttle to the festival (RM40 return), or at Santubong Resort (RM14 return). The three-day world music festival brings together some of the best world musicians for workshops and nightly live concerts. Packages with 2- or 3-day passes, hotel, shuttle and airport transfers available on the website. The festival is also available by online streaming. }} * {{do | name=Traditional Batik-Making | alt= | url=http://www.kraftangan.gov.my | email= | address=at Jl. Stadium | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Hands-on experience with making traditional batik. You can learn how to apply batik motives based on Sarawak culture. The operators of Perbadanan Kraftangan (''Handicrafts body'') are also expert in pua kumbu. Contact them to arrange for a lesson. }} *{{do | name=Tringgus Tribal Experience | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=1 hr from Kuching city | phone=+60 12 8950419,+60 10 5267669 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The original 'Tringgus tribe of Borneo' were a feared sub-group of the Bidayuh (''Land Dayaks''), warrior headhunters of the Borneo interior, living a predominantly hunter-gatherer lifestlye. They knew how to utilise the medicinal and poison plants, edible plants and roots. Explore ancient rainforest and it's flora and fauna. Nature activities include jungle and river trekking, climbing and exploring the nearby mountains, camping and traditional white water fishing, visiting ancient remnants and relics of Tringgus tribal villages and sites. Overnight in homestays available. The park has many nocturnal sights. }} ===Tattoos=== * '''[http://www.borneoheadhunter.com/ Borneo Headhunter Tattoos]'''. Tattoo designs inspired by Sarawak's indigenous tribes. There are a handful of parlours in Kuching that specialise in indigenous designs and are very clean and hygienic. *'''Kuching Tattoo''' Friendly couple and very professional. Situated same row as Kiosk 2 Cafe. A few doors away from The Junk Cafe. (Upstairs) *{{do | name=71st Skin Slavery Tattoo Studio | url=http://www.71stskinslavery.com | email= | address=1st floor, No. 75 Jl. Padungan | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Everise Supermarket | phone=+60 13 8177227 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialise in custom tattoo, cover up, colour, black and grey work. All needle and material is in single use and well sterilized. Visit for consultation. }} ===Other=== * {{do | name=Bumbu Cooking Class | url= | email=bumbucookingclas@hotmail.com | address=57 Carpenter St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 19 8791050 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In an old traditional shophouse and almost resembles a typical indigenous kitchen but it is more modern and hygienic. The class includes a visit to the market where you will learn to choose and buy the best natural ingredients. Bookings are essential. The price is RM150 with the market tour or RM120 without. }} * '''Fish Feeding'''. If you love feeding fish, try bring those fish food at the lake of Sarawak State Library, also at the Friendship Garden. * '''Bidayuh Spa and Massage'''. At Borneo Highlands resort. Traditional spa and massage of Bidayuh. * '''Jogging and brisk walking'''. If you love jogging and brisk walking. There are plenty of places to do so. Among the popular places are Kuching Reservoir, Masja and Kampung Haji Baki Garden. * '''Sarawak Layer Cake Making'''. At Kampung Lintang and go to any Malay houses there to savour the making of famous Sarawak layer cakes. Among the layer cakes you can choose from are Sabok (or Sampin in standard Malay) Tun Razak cake, Dangdut cake, Retak Seribu cake and Hati Pari cake. Local guides required to look for the housewives who make the layer cakes for sale and provide teaching lesson. Other places include Rabiah Amit's house in Petra Jaya RPR Fasa II (not far from Kampung Lintang) and Dayang Salhah's in Kampung Gersik. *{{do | name=Mirage Spa | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jalan Padungan Lama | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82-424022 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Foot & body massage, spa & yoga. }} * '''Bidayuh Spa and Massage'''. At Borneo Highlands resort. Traditional spa and massage of Bidayuh. ==Buy== There's some interesting shopping in Kuching. For a wide selection of tribal handicrafts and touristy gewgaws, head down to the aptly named '''Main Bazaar''' street on the Kuching waterfront. It's worth going inside for a look, as many shops have larger and more authentic collections hidden away upstairs or in a back room. In this mostly Christian city, some shops close on Sundays. ===Markets=== [[Image:Kuching SundayMarket Bananas.JPG|thumb|240px|Bananas by the bunch at the Sunday Market]] * '''Sunday Market''', (''Pasar Minggu''), off Jl. Satok, (''between Esso gas station and Wisma Satok''). A Kuching institution, starting every Saturday afternoon and winding down by noontime Sunday. Very much a workaday market, with tourists few and far between, the emphasis is on fresh food of every description. Be sure to try some ''apam balik'' a pancake with nuts and margarine, very filling, absolutely delicious and RM1 a piece. Bring along suitable footwear plus a tolerance for heat, crowds and powerful odors. * Two other local markets, more conveniently located and open daily, can be found at the west end of Jl. India. ===Shopping centres=== * {{buy | name=Plaza Merdeka | alt= | url=http://plazamerdeka.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A shopping mall opened in 2012 which is in the heart of Kuching city. }} * '''AEON Mall Kuching Central''', at Mile 5, the bus terminal cum shopping mall is a landmark in Kuching. * '''Boulevard Mall''', at Mile 4 Kuching-Serian Rd, (''not far from Regional Bus Terminal''). It offers a hypermarket and department store plus a variety of shopping outlets like Sony Centre, Popular Book store and fast foods outlets such as Sushi King, Kenny Rogers Roasters and KFC. * {{buy | name=The Spring | alt= | url=http://www.thespring.com.my | email= | address=Jl. Simpang Tiga | lat= | long= | directions=between the city centre and airport | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Opened to the public in 2008, 'Lifestyle' shopping mall. It offers many international brands like Esprit, Elle, Mango, Charles & Keith, Starbucks, MAC and Quiksilver. The mall is spread over 4 stories including a carpark basement. The main tenants are Parkson @ tHe Spring, Ta Kiong Supermarket, Padini Concept Store, and MBO Cinemas. }} * '''Green Heights Mall''', Jl. Lapangan Terbang. Kuching's first suburban neighbourhood small mall, with an international Cold Storage Supermarket as the anchor tenant, over some 4,000 m² of leasable space. It opened in 2008. * '''Sarawak Plaza''', Jl. Tunku Abdul Rahman (''next to Grand Margherita Hotel''). One of Kuching's older malls. Lea Center is the anchor tenant, selling a wide variety of shoes from sportswear to fashion. * '''Wisma Saberkas''', at the junction of Jl. Tun Abang Haji Openg and Jl. Rock, is an older cylindrical building on the outskirts of Kuching (approximately 15 min from the Waterfront) that offers a feast of hi-tech products based around mobile phones and computers. * '''Riverside Shopping Complex''', Jl. Tunku Abdul Rahman (''opposite Sarawak Plaza''). One of the older malls in the city, it is home to the first Parkson in Kuching. Other anchor tenants include LFS Cineplex and Giant Supermarket. It is also home to Riverside Super Bowl - one of the 2 bowling centres in Kuching. * '''Wisma Hopoh''', Jl. P. Ramlee, near Syaria Court. (''just a walk away from Sarawak Museum''). A small and old shopping centre yet still frequented by shoppers. Its tenant includes Lea Sports Centre, Jee Kwong Optics and the fast food restaurant franchise, Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). ==Eat== {{infobox|Coffee, see, and tea, oh!|Coffee and tea in hawker centres and ''kopitiam'' goes from 60 cents to RM3 per cup/glass, a steep discount on Starbucks prices (not to mention an immeasurable improvement on their flavours), but you'll need to learn the lingo to get what you want. If you order just ''kopi'' (the Malay word for "coffee") or ''teh'' (Hokkien for "tea") in Kuching, it will definitely be served with a heaped spoonful of sugar, and more often than not with a squirt of sweet condensed milk. ''Kopi-C'' or ''teh-C'' substitutes unsweetened evaporated milk, while ''kopi-O'' or ''teh-O'' makes sure it's served with no milk. To get rid of the sugar, you need to ask for it ''kosong'' ("plain"), but if you want a cup of thick black coffee, you need to ask for ''kopi-O kaw''! If you want your drink cold, just add a ''peng'' to the end of the drink name, eg. ''kopi-O-peng'', ''teh-peng'', ''teh-C-peng'', ''Milo-peng'' etc. and it will be served with ice. If you request for teh-C-special, you'll get a Teh-C with 'gula apong' (coconut sugar) or sometimes with a little bit of honey. Some places offer different sized drinks, such as ''Small'', ''Big''/''Large'' and ''Jumbo''.}} [[File:Laksa Sarawak from Chong Choon Cafe.jpg|thumb|243x243px|Experience the original Laksa]] [[Image:Umei.JPG|thumb|195x195px|Umei]] Eating out is the major pastime, with a huge variety of eateries and food available. Most places are pretty cheap with excellent service but the more "local", the less English spoken. Be sure to sample some Sarawak laksa, but beware - it's considered a breakfast dish here and the popular places sell out fast. For the local Chinese, ''kolo mee'', a noodle dish served with slices of roasted pork, is also a daily staple. Although most places are quite clean, there are some which are not. A rule of thumb is if you're not comfortable with it, then walk somewhere else. There are plenty to choose from. ===Sarawakian dishes=== Unlike fellow Malaysians in Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah, the range of food and drinks in Sarawak, particularly Kuching is somewhat different. Here are dishes you might never heard of when you browse through the food menu: * '''Sarawak Laksa'''. Sarawak laksa is the most noticeably Sarawakian food in Kuching. It was a favourite among Sarawakian from Chinese and Malay decent. It has a base of sambal belacan, sour tamarind, garlic, galangal, lemon grass and coconut milk, topped with omelette strips, chicken strips, prawns, fresh coriander and optionally lime. Ingredients such as bean sprouts, sliced fried tofu or other seafood are not traditional but are sometimes added. Non-Halal Sarawak laksa can be found at most Chinese coffee shops while Halal Sarawak laksa can be found at most Malay coffee shops (and some Mamak too). Halal and non-Halal Sarawak laksa are not that different, except for the usage of Halal chicken meat and the cooking utensils used by the cook. The Chinese version of Sarawak laksa has a less thick gravy but is rich with condiments and toppings. The Malay version of Sarawak laksa has a thicker gravy but more taugeh (''beansprouts''). * '''Kolok Mee'''. Kolok mee is a type of noodle dish commonly found in Sarawak. It is served throughout the day - for breakfast, lunch or even supper though some eateries only serve kolok mee until noon because supplies run out. It is made of egg noodle, blanched in water that looks like instant noodle and served in a light sauce with some condiments like sliced pork, chicken cutlets, minced meat or sometimes shredded beef though this is unusual. The difference between kolok mee and wontan mee, which is popular in the Peninsula, is that kolok mee is not drenched in dark soy sauce and water is not added to the noodles when served. Kolok mee comes in two common flavours, plain or seasoned with red sauce. Cooks tend to season kolok mee with red sauce when they are served with pork. Occasionally, diners may also request their kolok mee to be seasoned with soy sauce, to give the dish a darker appearance with enhanced saltiness. * '''Mee sapi'''. Mee sapi (mi sapi) is a gravy-ish version of kolok mee. It is garnished and prepared just like kolok mee with a slight difference in cooking method. The noodle can be somewhat egg noodle been used in kolok mee, or mee pok, mi sanggul - a curly type of noodle similar to angelhair spaghetti). * '''Manok pansoh'''. Manok pansoh is the most common dish among Iban. It is a chicken dish which normally be eaten with white rice. Chicken pieces are cut and stuffed into the bamboo together with other ingredients like mushrooms, lemongrass, tapioca leaves etc. and cooked over an open fire - similar to the way lemang is cooked. This natural way of cooking seals in the flavours and produces astonishingly tender chicken with a gravy perfumed with lemongrass and bamboo. Manok pansoh cannot be found easily in all restaurants and coffee shops. Some restaurants require advanced booking of manok pansoh dish prior to your arrival. * '''Manok kacangma'''. Manok kacangma is a Chinese type of dish which has grown in wider popularity in Sarawak. It is a chicken dish which normally be eaten with white rice. Kacangma is a type of herb which normally being used for medical and healing purposes. It is believed that woman who eat manok kacangma can enjoy ease menses. As for Malay, they normally cook manok kacangma without wine, while as for Iban and Chinese, they squinch in wine for more delicate taste. You can try manok kacangma when you eat 'nasi campur' during lunch hours in Kuching. However, it is extremely hard to find a coffee shop or restaurant who serves this. * '''Umai'''. Umai is a raw fish salad popular among various ethnic groups of Sarawak, especially the Melanaus. In fact, umai is a traditional working lunch for the Melanau fishermen. Umai is prepared raw from freshly caught fish, iced but not frozen. Main species used include mackerel, nawal hitam and umpirang. It is made mainly of thin slivers of raw fish, thinly sliced onions, chilli, salt and the juice of sour fruits like lime or assam. It is usually accompanied by a bowl of toasted sago pearls instead of rice. Its simplicity makes it a cinch for fishermen to prepare it aboard their boats. Umai Jeb, a raw fish salad without other additional spices, is famous among Bintulu Melanaus. However, it is rarely prepared in Kuching. You can try umai when you eat Nasi campur during lunch hours in Kuching. Most Malay/Bumiputera coffee shops, serve umai daily for 'nasi campur'. * '''Midin'''. Jungle ferns such as the midin (quite similar to pucuk paku that is popular in Peninsular Malaysia) is sought after for its crisp texture and great taste. Midin is usually served in two equally delicious ways - fried with either garlic or belacan. You can try midin when you eat nasi campur during lunch hours in Kuching. Most coffee shops, served midin daily for 'nasi campur'. * '''Bubur pedas'''. Unlike many other porridge that we know, bubur pedas is cooked with a specially prepared paste of spices, turmeric, lemon grass, galangal, chillies, ginger, coconut and shallots. Like the famous bubur lambuk of Kuala Lumpur. Bubur pedas is exclusive dish prepared during the month of Ramadan and served during the breaking of fast. So don't expect to eat bubur pedas at anytime you want. [[File:Linut.jpg|thumb|Linut]] * '''Linut'''. Linut (also known as ambuyat by Brunei people or jalit by Miri Locals) is a Melanau food. Boiling water is poured on sago flour as it is stirred until it turns sticky like glue. Linut is best when served hot, and that is why the accompaniment and side dishes must be prepared before hand so that the linut can served right away while it is still hot. The traditional way to scoop the sticky linut from the bowl is to use a special clipper made from the vein of the sago palm frond. Just poke the clipper into the linut and twist it around a few times and scoop the linut which sticks to the clipper. Linut is normally served during a family reunion or a gathering of friends and visitors. * '''Dabai'''. This fruit is a highly perishable delicacy (RM40 per kilo) which is virtually unknown outside Sarawak. Only in season in June and December, these small black fruits must be soaked before eating. Their flesh tastes like a mix of olives, carrots and cheese, with the creaminess of avocado. Their paper-thin skin has a strongel olive taste, but this can be peeled off if preferred. Try them with salt, sugar or soy sauce! * '''Mi Jawa'''. Mi Jawa (mee Jawa) in Kuching or Sarawak in general is somewhat different from the one served in Peninsular Malaysia, or even at its birthplace on Java island. It is a thick egg yellow noodle served with tiny slice of chicken and a sprinkle of 'daun sup' (or bay leaves). Some coffee shops serve a 'special' type of mee Jawa (which you need to add from 50 cents to RM1.50) with an additional few sticks of satay (chicken and/or beef). Mee Jawa is normally served at Malay/Mamak coffee shops. * '''Roti corned beef'''. Sarawakian Roti canai is different to the widely-known Malaysian dish. It has a corned beef filling and is widely available at Malay and Mamak coffee shops. It can be bought for as low as RM2 per piece due to cheap canned corned beef. However, since the Gateway-brand corned beef lost its Halal certification, roti corned beef has lost its popularity and if it does exist, the price may range from RM4-5 per piece. * '''Nasik Aruk'''. Nasik Aruk is a traditional Sarawakian Malay fried rice. Unlike nasi goreng, nasik aruk does not use any oil to fry the rice. The ingredients are garlic, onion and anchovies, fried with very little oil and then the rice is added. The rice must be fried for a longer time compared to nasi goreng to allow the smokey/slightly-burnt taste to be absorbed into the rice. It is a common to see nasik aruk in the food menu list at Malay and Mamak coffee shops and stalls. Kuching has also absorbed Thai favourites such as tom yam, nasi paprik and pattaya. Bakso and soto originally from Indonesia, and nasi ayam Singapura (from Singapore) have moved onto restaurant and other menus. Chinese restaurants have also been daring to try more exquisite cuisine from North China, Korea and Vietnam. Western food has also been widely accepted in Sarawak, especially Kuching. Fast food chains such as KFC, McDonalds, Kenny Roger's Roasters, Secret Recipe and Marrybrown, America's buffet has also taken place in Sarawakian's heart such as Hartz Chicken Buffet are also growing in presence. However, traditional nasi campur and traditional breakfast, high tea and dinner are always part of Sarawakian food ritual. It is however becoming common to see more modernised Kuchingites slowly adapting to Western food culture such as eating pasta or pizza for dinner. ===Dietary restriction guides=== As a guide to Muslim visitors, some of the restaurants serving Chinese food are non-halal, unless stated halal or appear to handover the food preparation to Muslim cooks or sellers. Restaurants who clearly stated pork or/and non-halal substances in their food menu (like using wine for cooking, frogs and snakes) are ones you should avoid. The easiest way to look for halal restaurants are by looking at their halal certificate. Ensure that they display halal certificate produced by JAIS Sarawak, JAKIM or HDC Malaysia. Sometimes the restaurant owners choose not to display it, so please ask to see the certificate if they claim to serve halal food. For vegetarian visitors, always look for the restaurant clearly stating vegetarian food only. Some vegetarian meals served can still contain non-vegetarian ingredients like anchovies, chicken stock and lard. If in doubt, ask the staff. ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Madam Tang's A Taste Of Sarawak | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lot 16, Wisma Nation Horizon, Jalan Petanak | lat=1.5551684 | long= 110.3628440 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Teh C Peng special, beef noodles and nasi lemak rendang. }} *{{eat | name=Pure Fish Ball Cafe | url= | email= | address=214, Jl. Padungan | lat=1.5539873 | long=110.3576348 | directions= | phone=+30 82 235816 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Halal. It is a nice and comfortable A/C cafe selling local food especially pure fish mee noodle with 100% mackerel fish meat. }} * {{eat | name=Chong Choon Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=275, Jalan Chan Chin Ann | lat=1.5571498 | long=110.3554911 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=One of Kuching's two famous laksa joints. Usually sold out by noon. }} [[Image:Mi hong kong.JPG|thumb|203x203px|Tomato Noodles]] * {{eat | name=Choon Hui Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=34, Jalan Ban Hock | lat= 1.5527885 | long=110.3543337 | directions=near Grand Continental Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content= Another famous laksa joint. Spicy and popular, get here before 10AM. }} * {{eat | name=Open Air Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jl. Market | lat=1.5590789 | long=110.3424998 | directions=opposite Electra House Shopping Centre and near 'Padang Merdeka' Police Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Despite the name, the place is actually covered. It has a wide variety of stalls serving Malay and Chinese cuisine. Their most popular stall is the one serving beef noodles and sio bi (''pork dumplings''). Also popular is the fresh porridge and seafood stalls. But beware, this area is not the cleanest of places so order your food from only the most popular stalls. }} * {{eat | name=Lau Ya Keng Food Court | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carpenter St | lat=1.5584733 | long=110.3456578 | directions=just after the Harmony Arch, opposite a Chinese temple | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=A simple food court that has been around for decades and is very popular with locals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can buy very decent Kolo mee and Sarawak laksa here. But a lot of people come here for the fish-ball soup and famous pork satay that opens in the early afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Authentic Hock King Chicken Rice | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lot 163, Hock King Cafetaria, 103, Lorong 7 & Jalan Ban Hock | lat=1.5532094 | long=110.3543840 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Basic, but quite generous meals throughout the day. Mr Hock is one of the better hosts in Kuching, fluent in multiple languages and will do almost anything to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Many local celebrities stop by for lunch regularly as Hock King is well connected. }} * {{eat | name=KY Cafe | alt=嘉远茶餐室 | url= | email= | address=Ground Floor, No 105, Jalan Sekama, Sekama | lat= 1.5468257 | long= 110.3647152 | directions=a corner shop opposite Hollywood KTV Lounge, about 10 min walk from the Kuching City South Council building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Run by a band of three brothers, they serve what is arguably the best 'Kolo mee' in town. Characterised by being served in an orange plastic bowl, this 'kolo mee' tastes a little bit on the sweet side and has the distinction of tasting much better towards the end. They also have excellent wonton soup. }} * {{eat | name=Bismillah Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ground Floor, 19, Jalan Khoo Hun Yeang | lat=1.5585393 | long=110.3426886 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=If you love Indian and Mamak food, try this one. They serve good nasi beriyani, roti canai and teh tarik. }} * {{eat | name=Sepinang Sari Cafe & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lot 206, Section II, Jalan Satok | lat=1.5534849 | long=110.3365798 | directions=next to Carpet Shop | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Sells the best Mi Sapi HjSalleh and usually operates from 6AM-5:30PM daily. You will also find delicious laksa Sarawak and mee Jawa. }} * {{eat | name=Singapore Chicken Rice | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Has branches at Padungan, Satok and Kota Samarahan. Serve excellent chicken rice comparable to other established chicken rice shop. Other side dishes are baby kailan in oyster sauce and beansprouts. }} * {{eat | name=Rojak Kuchei Batu Lintang | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jalan Batu Lintang | lat= 1.5351610 | long=110.3416519 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content= This place served the best rojak India and chicken rojak in the town. Don't be surprised to see a lot of visitors during morning time because this place is constantly crowded with people from the nearby offices during breakfast time. }} * {{eat | name=Ho Joo Coffee Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jalan Batu Kawa, Bazaar Maong, Batu 3, 3rd Mile | lat= 1.5208056 | long=110.3351083 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=The place where you can get the thick Hainanese-style bread, toasted in a small toaster oven before spreading butter and kaya on it. }} * {{eat | name=Tracy's Kitchen | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lot. 251, Abell Road KTLD | lat= 1.5544967 | long=110.3582182 | directions=near Wisma Prudential, towards the end of roundabout with Jl. Padungan | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M 9:30AM-6PM, Tu-Su 9:30AM-9:30PM. | price= | lastedit=2022-07-05 | content=Serves its original "Pak Lo" duck and chicken, kolo mee, kacangma duck, wine chicken, pork leg, assam fish, rendang, and a variety of other dishes. Not to miss is its fresh cucumber juice. Not halal. }} *{{eat | name=Kubah Ria Complex | alt= | url=http://www.sedctourism.com/kubahria.asp | email= | address=No 1 Jalan Matang | lat=1.554997 | long=110.322905 | directions=After the Satok Bridge on the Left side heading towards Petra Jaya | phone=+60 168951205 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=A shopping and food center by the Sarawak River very near to the historical Satok Bridge. Built by SEDC to replace the former food and beverages centre. This shopping center houses 45 shoplots and 45 food and beverage outlets. This is now the most popular eating and shopping spot in Kuching. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Hong Kong Noodle House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jln Pandungan | lat=1.5561892 | long=110.3551883 | directions=Opposite Bing Cafe | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Standard HK fare like roast duck on rice or noodles. They also serve local Chinese dishes and is open for lunch and dinner. }} * {{eat | name=SideWalk Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lot 8729, No. 127, Jalan Lapangan Terbang, Green Height | lat=1.5024660 | long=110.3472389 | directions=Towards airport, on the right-hand side of the BDC flyover/roundabout | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content= Al fresco style western food away from the city near the airport. Its only open in the evenings till late and is popular with locals. }} * {{eat | name=Mango Tree | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ground Floor, Lot 362-363, Section 47, KTLD Bukit Mata Kuching, Jalan Padungan | lat=1.5558702 | long=110.3517424 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=A/C dining room, or dine alfresco in a traditional Thai garden. Thai cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Hartz Chicken Buffet | alt= | url= | email= | address=Satok & Sarawak Plaza | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=This buffet restaurant is a franchise to the ''All-American Chicken Buffet''. All you can eat for RM34 per person (Jan 2023). Crispy and spicy fried chicken, wide range of salads, mashed potatoes, cakes, breads, ice-cream and fruit. }} * {{eat | name=Serapi Corner | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lot 2051,No 231,Blok 283, Rich Commercial Centre, KNLD, Lorong Liu Shan Bang, &, Pekan Batu 7, Kota Sentosa, 7th Mile | lat=1.4745807 | long= 110.3298294 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Peninsular Malaysia-style food. Their specialty is ikan keli bakar bersambal (grilled catfish with sambal). It is a bit hot inside. Check for the price list carefully to avoid charging errors on the bill. If you don't mind waiting for hours, they have a view of a hilly road to kill your time. }} * {{eat | name=Lepau | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jalan Ban Hock Road 99 | lat=1.5536 | long=110.35186 | directions= | phone=+60 12-8845383 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-2PM -- 6PM-10PM -- Sundays closed | price=70 RM | lastedit=2025-02-11 | content=Interesting and good restaurant specialising in local flavours of the Sarawak traditional cuisine. Many dishes are typical of local tribes in Sarawak, definitely a culinary experience as you'll find them nowhere else. Organic food and relaxed service. The restaurant has no air conditioning but plenty of fans. Not so many tables, hence reservation is a good idea especially for dinner. A 15% tax and service is added to prices in the menu. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=The Junk | alt= | url= | email= | address=80, Wayang St | lat=1.5558886 | long= 110.3479370 | directions= | phone=+30 82 259450 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Wayang Street (''opposite Fata Hotel''). Walking distance from the waterfront. Western/Italian menu and popular with locals and expats. Colonial Chinese decoration with lots of antiques. The portions are large and the lamb shanks and fisherman's basket seem to be the most popular. Bookings are advisable if you have a large group. }} * {{eat | name=Bla Bla Bla | alt= | url= | email= | address=27, Jalan Tabuan | lat=1.5554000 | long= 110.3479544 | directions= | phone=+30 82 233944 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Wayang Street (''A few shops down from The Junk''). A Chinese restaurant which was opened by the same restaurateurs as The Junk. It quickly became an institution for fine Chinese cuisine in Kuching shortly after it opened in 2005. The interior is designed with a Balinese theme and some of the dishes they are famous for are the ostrich-rolls, soft-shell crabs, and drunken duck. Bookings are advisable. }} * {{eat | name=See Good Food Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lot 228-229, No, 53, Jalan Ban Hock | lat=1.5532074 | long= 110.3512639 | directions=Off Ban Hock Rd., opposite Hua Kuok Inn | phone=+30 82 251397 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Casual laid-back restaurant that serves excellent and very fresh seafood, very popular with the locals. It is best to get there early in the evenings to secure a table and minimise the waiting time, as they don't take reservations. }} * {{eat | name=Top Spot Food Court | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jl. Bukit Mata, Jln Padungan | lat=1.5561175 | long=110.3524531 | directions=Top floor of 'Taman Kereta' Carpark, opposite Tun Jugah Shopping Mall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content= Has a wide range of food stalls ranging from the budget to the pricey. Most locals and tourists come here for the fresh seafood stalls which are on the pricey side. Most of the stalls serve good food, but beware; always ask to see a menu with prices - some stalls have been known to 'accidentally' over-charge tourists. }} * {{eat | name=Alfresco | alt= | url=http://www.facebook.com/AlfrescoKuching | email= | address=2, Jalan Datuk Abang Abdul Rahim | lat=1.5529426 | long=110.3674779 | directions=Inside Hock Lee Centre, 1st Floor | phone=+60 12 887 9311 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Lots of Western dishes here, including pizza and beer. }} * {{eat | name=Magenta | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Square Tower Waterfront, Jalan Barrack | lat=1.5602044 | long= 110.3455850 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=has been relocated to the old court house at Waterfront. Beautiful colonial building with a romantic oriental ambience. Good menu with large portions. Speciality is lamb shank with mashed potato which sounds bland but is very tasty. }} * {{eat | name=Popular Vegetarian Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=106, Lorong Abang Abdul Rahim 5a | lat=1.553578 | long=110.368361 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-05 | content=Vegetarian Chinese restaurant. }} ==Drink== Be sure to try Sarawak coffee - it is delicious and can be found in any local 'Kopi-tiam' (coffee shop). Also, try a drink called "White Lady". It usually consists of evaporated milk and a syrup base with fruit and a slice of lemon within. The colours vary from yellow to pink. The local favourite of "White Lady" is made by Ah Meng's stall at Hui Sing Hawker Centre at Hui Sing Garden. Another of the stall's signature drink is "Metahorn", made with jellies, syrup and local fruits. There are various knock-offs in Kuching but the taste is different. There are plenty of good bars and are usually grouped together in areas around Kuching. ===Bars=== Kuching has a large number of clubbing districts. '''Padungan Road''' is in the city centre, in the Chinatown area. There are a handful of bars along this stretch that mainly cater to the working-class Yuppie crowd. '''Jalan McDougall''', adjacent to Wayang Street, a hotel building away from the Main Bazaar. This is the area where the two main bars attract a new generation of the yuppie crowd: * '''Junkbar/Backstage''', inside the Junk restaurant, this nightclub offers Junkbar - a quieter, laid-back bar; a karaoke area called the Red Room between the restaurant and the Junkbar; and a noisier club area called Backstage for the younger, active crowd which features another bar and a pool table. *'''Havana'''. Next to Backstage, this club offers a wide selection of alcoholic beverages and promotions nearly everyday. Frequented by the younger patrons of next door's Backstage, this club is famous for its beer towers and 1 liter draft beers. '''Travillion''' in Petanak, just after Padungan Rd, is home to many newer bars and mainly caters to the young college crowd. It has bright signage, cheap alcohol, and Techno music. This area used to be infamous for gang-related brawls and other trouble - however the number of incidences have decreased significantly and while its generally considered safe now, it still pays to be a bit careful. '''Taman Sri Sarawak''' is opposite the Hilton Hotel. This area is the closest to the Kuching Waterfront and mainly caters to the Tourist Crowd. And a few more scattered elsewhere: * '''Matang Terrace''', at the Hilton Hotel. Very modern and chic design with chill-out music and the occasional live band. It is one of the nicest bars in Kuching and they have an extensive cocktail list, on a tranquil terrace. * '''The Victoria Arms'''. (''Inside Merdeka Palace Hotel''). The only true 'English Tavern' in Kuching. Its a big place with live bands, English pub food, and expensive wooden interior. They have a cover-charge and dress-code for non-hotel guests. Fridays are 'ladies's nights' and are very popular. * '''[https://m.facebook.com/RuaiBarPadungan/ Ruai Bar Padungan]''', 240, Jln Padungan. Very cultural with Iban and Bidayuh influenced decoration. Probably the only bar that serves locally brewed tuak (rice wine). A definite must go for the experience. ===Cafes=== * '''Bing!''', Padungan Rd. A laid-back cafe with a Balinese theme that serves excellent lattes and fresh fruit juices. They are also popular for their cakes, deli-style gourmet sandwiches and light meals. * '''Black Bean Coffee&Tea Company''', Jl. Carpenter. Small cafe which serves excellent home-roasted Sarawak liberica, Sumatran arabica and Javanese robusta. If you're a coffee addict, you just cannot miss this one. * '''Jase's Tea Room''' 1st Floor, Sublot 18, Premier 101 Commercial Centre Jl. Tun Jugah. (Above a Korean convenient store). A vintage cafe with Victorian style. A place known to serve fresh imported tea leaves and lots of varieties of drinks and finger foods. * '''Starbucks''', ''inside Kuching International Airport, next to KFC; and inside The Spring''. Another popular franchise. * '''Caffe Cino''', ''Inside Hilton Hotel''. They serve good coffee, desserts and meals. But the prices are a bit on the high side. * '''[https://m.facebook.com/TribalStove/ Tribal Stove]''', Taman Sri Sarawak (''opposite Hilton Hotel''). A cool joint that opened in 2006. They specialise in a range of Gelatos and change the flavors daily. They also serve coffee and cakes. Very good ambience and nice atmosphere. * '''Kluang Station''', ''Inside The Spring''. A franchise offering old-school 'kopitiam' coffee with toast and half-boiled eggs in a relaxing and clean setting reminiscent of indo-china colonial coffee shops. * '''Kaya & Toast''', Satok. If you love classic but classy 'kopitiam' to enjoy toasted breads with wide range of filling, try this one. ==Sleep== ===Budget=== * {{Sleep|name=Check-In Lodge|address=177 Jalan Padungan|lat=1.55469|long=110.35700|phone=+60168894896|checkin=14:00|checkout=12:00|lastedit=2025-03-26|content=Comfortable and cheap hostel in a great location on the main street of Chinatown. Basic breakfast included. Helpful staff. 6 bed dorm and a bunch of private rooms. Nice little rooftop and even a tiny pool!}} * {{sleep | name=Threehouse Bed&Breakfast | alt= | url=http://www.threehousebnb.com | email= | address=51 Upper China St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 423499 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Native Iban and Scandinavian ownership, in the middle of the city. Approach from the main Post Office in town you have a Chinese arch (gate) on the left of the building which leads to Carpenter St. Walk straight up that street passed a red temple on your right side, in the first junction you turn to your right and you are now on Upper China St. Walk the street up and watch out for the sunflower windmill and the only red facade building on this street. }} *{{sleep | name=Tune Hotel - Waterfront Kuching | alt= | url=https://tune-hotel-waterfront-kuching.business.site/ | email= | address=Jl Borneo, Lot 281, Section 48, KTLD, | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Hilton Kuching and off Jl. Tunku Abdul Rahman | phone=+60 82 238 221 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=10AM | price=From RM50 | content=Budget hotel operated by chain linked to AirAsia. Limited and basic services including hot showers. Price structure as of MAR 2016: 50 RM gets you a claustrophobic room and bed. Double that for 'amenities', including towels and internet. }} * {{sleep | name=Sunset Homestay | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/sunsethomestay.kuching/ | email= | address=E36, Level 2, Taman Sri Sarawak, Jalan Green Hills | lat=1.556611 | long=110.350954 | directions= | phone=+60 82 550 303 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=RM25 for a bunk, discounts may be available. RM50 deposit | image=Sunset Homestay bunks.jpg | lastedit=2019-02-12 | content=Hostel with three levels of bunks. The bunks are capsule-style, with a curtain, so there's more of a sense of privacy than at most hostels. Lockers big enough for a medium-sized bag. Air conditioning and free wifi. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Damai Beach Resort | url=http://www.damaibeachresort.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 846999 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Prices start from RM206 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Beach resort with private beach and 2 swimming pools, tennis courts and restaurant. Can organise trips such as diving and snorkeling. }} * {{sleep | name=Damai Puri Resort & Spa | alt= | url= | email= | address=Teluk Penyuk Santubong | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 846900 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= |lastedit=2025-03-26| content=Fronts Damai Beach with 207 rooms and a spa village, secluded massage villas, a yoga pavilion, hair spa, and a tea house that serves organic gourmet. 2 outdoor pools, tennis courts, wifi is available, a 600 capacity ballroom, meeting rooms. Can organise jungle treks and water sports. }} * {{sleep | name=Harbour View Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.harbourview.com.my/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 274 666 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Lorong Temple. 2-3 star business class hotel that is centrally in front of the Kuching Waterfront. Standard rooms are quite basic, often occupied by tour groups. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Grand Continental | alt= | url=http://www.grandconkuching.com/ | email= | address=Jl. Ban Hock | lat=1.55262 | long=110.35358 | directions= | phone=+60 82 230 399 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-12 | content=A comfortable 3-star hotel about 15 min walk from the Kuching waterfront. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Kingwood | alt= | url=http://kingwoodurban.com.my/kuching/ | email= | address=Lot 618 Pandungan Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 330 888 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= |lastedit=2025-03-26| content=Another standard hotel that's probably a bit better than Kuching Park Hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Kuching Park Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.kuchingparkhotel.com.my/ | email= | address=Lot 606 Pandungan Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 239 888 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A standard 2- to 3-star hotel a short drive away from the city centre. }} * {{sleep | name=The LimeTree Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.limetreehotel.com.my | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=50 rooms & suites boutique hotel in city centre adjacent to Chinatown and min away from the Waterfront and malls. }} * {{sleep | name=Citadines Uplands Kuching | alt= | url=https://www.citadines.com/en/malaysia/kuching/citadines-uplands-kuching/index.html | email=enquiry.kuching@the-ascott.com | address=No 55 Jalan Simpang Tiga | lat=1.536097 | long=110.356073 | directions= | phone=+60 82 281 888 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-11-18 | content=The property offers studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments. Has a business centre and outdoor swimming pool. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Hock Lee Hotel & Residences | alt= | url=http://www.hockleehotel.com/ | email= | address=Hock Lee Centre, Jalan Datuk Abang Abdul Rahim | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 484888 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Beside Hock Lee Shopping Centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Grand Margerita Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/6c/1/en/hd/kchmy | email= | address=Jl. Tunku Abdul Rahman | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 423111 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= Formerly a Holiday Inn Kuching. Visitors can gain access to the Sarawak Plaza, a shopping complex situated adjacent to it. Convenient to Tun Jugah and Parkson. Franchise outlets such as Starbucks, Kenny Rogers, KFC and McDonald's are nearby. }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Kuching | alt= | url=http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=KUCHITW | email= | address=Jl. Tunku Abdul Rahman | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 248200 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= Great riverside location. Make sure you get a river view, extra but well worth it. }} * {{sleep | name=Merdeka Palace Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.merdekapalace.com | email= | address=Jl. Tun Abang Haji Openg | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 258000 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= Kuching's oldest luxury hotel, its rooms aren't quite as spectacular as the lobby, but the hotel has infinitely more colonial character than others at the riverside. Next to the Sarawak Museum and nearby to the riverfront. The rooftop pool has a great view over Kuching. Rack rates from around RM300, but steep discounts in the off season can chop that in half. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverside Majestic Kuching | alt=formerly known as Crown Plaza Riverside Kuching | url=http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/6c/1/en/hd/kchrs | email= | address=Jl. Tunku Abdul Rahman | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 247777 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= Despite the name, this is the one riverside hotel that isn't actually riverside although it's just across the street. }} * {{sleep | name=ARIVA Gateway Kuching | alt= | url=https://www.stayariva.com/en/destinations/malaysia/ariva-gateway-kuching-serviced-residences/overview/hotelitem/overview?cid=3 | email= | address=9 Jl Bukit Mata | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 250958 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Comfortable serviced-apartments in the city centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Pullman Kuching | alt= | url=http://www.pullmankuching.com/ | email= | address=1A Jalan Mathies | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 222888 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= On top of the hill at Jalan Mathies, Pullman Kuching offers astonishing panoramic view of the city and the Sarawak River. The hotel is adjacent to a two storey city life-style shopping centre “Hills Shopping Mall” and within walking distance to commercial centre and city attractions. }} ==Stay safe== The most common crime in Kuching are bag snatches by motorbike riders. When walking nearby the road or in open parking lots, keep handbags and non-strapped items far from the side of the road, holding them firmly. Jalan Main Bazaar is particularly notorious for bag snatches; it can be avoided by walking in the waterfront instead. Other than that, Kuching is a quite safe city. Armed robberies with knives are known to happen, but much less frequently than in other large[[Malaysia | Malaysian]] cities such as [[Johor Bahru]] or [[Kuala Lumpur]]. Kuching is practically safe from natural disasters: no earthquakes, typhoons, hurricanes or volcanoes. Aside from the very occasional flood the biggest hazard is '''haze''' during the dry season, caused by fires in Sarawak and neighboring Indonesia. Luggage storage does not seem to be available in Kuching, although your hotel may agree to hold on to it for you. This is a shame, especially if the flight starts in the afternoon and you want spend the day in the city. The Check-In Lodge on Jalan Padungan may be able to store your luggage in a locker for a small fee. Workers at the tourist information office may agree to look after your bags for you, but there is no guarantee against loss. ==Stay healthy== Kuching has often been declared as one of the cleanest cities in Malaysia. The air pollution is low, while the Sarawak River is constantly being cleaned of rubbish. Some parts of the city might be a little bit dirty and messy. However, tourists spots are well-maintained. Public toilets exist throughout Kuching and cost 20 cents. The public toilets are generally sanitized and clean. Public smoking is still allowed, except for areas like hospitals, government offices, public bus stops and supermarkets. Please show respect by always putting your rubbish in a bin. ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Consulates=== * {{flag|Australia}} {{listing | name=Australian Consulate | url=http://www.malaysia.embassy.gov.au/ | email= | address=Suite 504, 5th Floor, Wisma Bukit Mata Kuching, Jl. Tunku Abdul Rahman | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 233350 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Brunei}} {{listing | name=Consulate General of Brunei | url= | email= | address=No.297-2-2 Tingkat 2 Riverbank Suites and Commercial Towers | lat=1.5582733888889 | long=110.35153977778 | directions= | phone=+60 82 456515 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Consulate of Brunei in Kuching.jpg | content= }} * {{flag|China}} {{listing | name=General Consulate of the People's Republic of China | url= | email= | address=Lot 3719, Dogan Garden, Dogan Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 82 238344 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Indonesia}} {{listing | name=Consulate General of Indonesia | alt= | url=https://kemlu.go.id/kuching/id | email=kuching.kjri@kemlu.go.id | address=Lantai 6, Bangunan Binamas, No. 1 Jl. Pandungan | lat=1.507188 | long=110.370156 | directions= | phone=+60 82 241734 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q105972134 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=see | name=[[Bako National Park]] | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.7164 | long=110.4441 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} Beaches and jungle trekking easily reached by bus from downtown Kuching. * {{listing | type=see | name=Semenggoh national park | url= | email= | address | lat=1.4002 | long=110.3248 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Feeding times for the Orangutans are 9AM and 3PM. }} * [[Santubong]] &mdash; with the Sarawak Cultural Park and Damai Beach is easily reached by tour bus. * [[Sibu]] * [[Miri]] &mdash; there are several flights daily to this major gateway to the [[Gunung Mulu National Park]] and the [[Kelabit Highlands]]. * [[Pontianak]] * [[Singkawang]] {{geo|1.5600|110.3450}} {{IsPartOf|Sarawak}} {{guidecity}} bphdhwh5hxptxee006reu02f6wqc2y7 0 19045 5091182 5068335 2025-07-11T04:35:55Z Tryptamine dreamer 570692 /* By boat */ ferry prices updated as of 2025 5091182 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Langkawi banner Sky Bridge.jpg}} [[File:Langkawi Malaysia (26).JPG|thumb|right|240px|Sun, sand and sea on the beach]] [[Image:Sunrise over Pantai Cenang.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Sunrise over Langkawi]] '''[https://pbt.kedah.gov.my/index.php/majlis-perbandaran-langkawi-bandaraya-pelancongan/ Langkawi]''' (Jawi: لانكاوي), officially known as "Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah" ([[Malay phrasebook|Malay]]: ''Langkawi Permata Kedah'') is an archipelago of 99 islands (an extra 5 temporary islands are revealed at low tide) in the Andaman Sea, 30 km off the mainland coast of [[Kedah]]. It is a popular destination due to its natural white sand beaches, lush jungle foliage, craggy mountain peaks and duty-free status, where alcohol is affordable. ==Understand== ===Politics and demographics=== The islands are a part of the state of [[Kedah]], adjacent to the border with [[Thailand]]. The total population of the islands is 99,000; however only two islands are inhabited: Pulau Langkawi, the largest island, with a population of 65,000 and Pulau Tuba. Langkawi is also an administrative district, with the town of Kuah as the capital and largest town. ===Etymology=== {{infobox|Legends of broken pots and seeping gravy|Langkawi's most prominent mountains, Gunung Macinchang and Gunung Raya, and a whole series of towns and villages are said to be named after a local legend. During the wedding feast of the marriage of giant Mat Raya's son and giant Mat Cincang's daughter, a fight broke out between the two wedding parties, reputedly because the son was caught flirting with another woman. Pots and pans were thrown, and a large pot of gravy (''kuah'') was broken and the contents flowed onto the ground. The place where the gravy was spilled became known as Kuah (the largest town on Langkawi island) and where the crockery (''belanga'') was broken (''pecah'') was the location of the village Kampung Belanga Pecah. The gravy seeped into (''kisap'') the earth at the village named Kisap.}} The name "Langkawi" has two possible origins. First, it is believed to be related to the kingdom of Langkasuka, itself a version of the [[Malay phrasebook|Malay]] ''negari alang-kah suka'' ("the land of all one's wishes"), centered in modern-day [[Kedah]]. The historical record is sparse, but a Chinese Liang Dynasty record (c. 500 AD) refers to the kingdom of "Langgasu" as being founded in the 1st century AD. Second, it could be a combination of the Malay words 'helang', meaning "eagle" and 'kawi', meaning "reddish-brown" or "strong", in old Malay. ===History=== Langkawi was long under the influence of the Kedah Sultanate, founded in 1136 AD upon the introduction of Islam. Kedah, including Langkawi, was conquered in 1821 by the State of Siam (now [[Thailand]]). During the invasion by the Siamese, the leaders were killed, many islanders were taken as slaves, and most of the population fled. In the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909, the Siamese ceded control of the island to the British, who held the state until Malaysian independence in 1957, except for a brief period of Thai rule under the Japanese occupation of Malaya during World War II. Thai influences remain visible in the culture and food of Langkawi. Langkawi remained a sleepy backwater island until 1987, when the island was granted tax-free status with the intention of promoting tourism to improve the lives of the islanders. ===Climate=== Sheltered by the mountainous backbone of [[Peninsular Malaysia]], Langkawi is not affected by the northeastern winter monsoon and enjoys sunny skies in winter when the eastern provinces are flooded. ===Preservation=== The 10,000 hectares of Langkawi and its 99 islands were declared a geopark by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 2007. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Langkawi International Airport | alt={{IATA|LGK}} | url=https://airports.malaysiaairports.com.my/langkawi | email= | address= | lat=6.329722 | long=99.728611 | directions=at Padang Matsirat, on the northwestern part of the island | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Langkawi International Airport | image=Langkawi airport.png | wikidata=Q1431863 | content=There are direct flights to [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Singapore]], [[Penang]], and [[Johor Bahru]]. There are no air-bridges, so in the event of rain, the airline will supply umbrellas for the walk to the plane. }} ===By boat=== * '''[http://www.langkawi-ferry.com/ Langkawi Ferry Services]''' operates fast air-con boats from [[Kuala Perlis]] (RM35 foreigners, 75 min), [[Kuala Kedah]] (RM45 foreigners, 105 min) (the ferry is freezing cold, so bring warm clothes), and [[Satun]] (RM65 or 600 [[Thailand#Money|Thai baht]], 75 min), (Satun to Langkawi: one boat departs Satun daily at 11:30.) Langkawi to Satun: one boat departs Langkawi daily at 8:30AM. * '''[https://www.langkawiferryline.com Langkawi Ferry Line]''' operates between Langkawi and [[Kuala Perlis]], [[Kuala Kedah]]. * '''Tropical Charters''' [https://tropicalcharters.com.my/] operates ferries between Kuah Jetty in Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]]. The price is RM118 one way (RM100 if you book online), including the longtail boat transfer and Thai customs fees. Check-in is at the inner entrance of the Jetty Point Food Court, opposite 7/11, 1 hour before departure. The trip takes 90 minutes. Arrival in Ko Lipe is at the Bundhaya Resort. * '''[https://telaga-terminal.com/ Telaga Terminal]''' operates speedboats between Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]] (RM128 1-way, RM248 return, 75 min). These boats dock at a pontoon in Pattaya Bay from where there are longtail transfers to immigration on Pattaya Beach. * '''[https://www.tigerlinetravel.com Tigerline Ferry]''' operates between Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]]. * '''[https://www.spcthailand.com Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club Company]''' operates between Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]]. * '''[https://www.bundhayaspeedboat.com Bundhaya Speed Boat]''' operates between Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]]. Choose the Ferry (not Speedboat) tab on their website. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|6.37|99.78|zoom=11}}{{mapshape|wikidata=Q273303}} There is effectively no public transport on the island, so your choices are to use taxis or to rent a car, motorbike/scooter, or bicycle. ===By taxi=== Taxis and the Grab mobile app operate on a fixed price system. A taxi from the airport to Pantai Cenang costs RM20 or less with Grab. You can buy a coupon at the taxi desk at the airport. From the ferry terminal to Pantai Cenang, the price is RM24. For those arriving at the Kuah Jetty and going into Kuah Town, the price is RM8. ===By car or motorbike/scooter=== Renting a car or motorbike/scooter is highly recommended due to the lack of public transport. This can be done at the airport, the port complex, or from shops on Pantai Cenang. Refrain from renting from touts, as many are operating illegally without permits and usually without insurance. Accidents happen to tourists on motorbikes/scooters regularly, so be careful although the traffic is not as chaotic as in Penang and other areas. The roads are in good condition. Most rental agencies will not provide full insurance coverage and you have to cover the damage up to RM3000 if there is any accident. Renting an air-conditioned mid-sized sedan costs RM70-RM150 per day depending on model, condition and length of stay and a 150cc motorbike/scooter costs RM40-45 per day. Cheaper but usually very used and older are the semi-automatic 115cc bikes for RM25 a day. A tired Proton within Pantai Cenang costs RM60-90/day. Check your fuel level regularly because petrol pump stations (gas stations) are far from one another. Most rental agencies do not care how much fuel is in the tank when the vehicle is returned, although some may do so and mark it on the receipt. Fuel costs are cheap and are fixed by the government and you should return the bikes with the same filling level as you picked it up. The first time at a gas/petrol station will confuse you. You will need to guess how much fuel you need and pay first. Most saloon cars, if empty, are RM50 to fill up and motorbikes are approximately RM5. Sometimes you fill up your car/bike and you haven't used what you have paid for; not to worry, as you can claim this back at the counter. Remember to drive safely and slowly on the island and on the left side of the road. There are tourists, children and animals like chickens, cows and even buffaloes crossing. Take care not to run over the beautiful snakes or monitors. Cattle and snakes like to lie on the road at night; the blacktop radiates heat. Driving laws: # Your driver's licence needs to be with you at all times. An international driver's licence is not necessary but licences must have text in English. # Seat belts are mandatory in all vehicles. Fines are given ranging from RM50 if not wearing one. # Helmets are mandatory. Fines are the same as above but more importantly, the hospital does not have facilities to treat head injuries, so you will have to get a medivac out to Penang, which takes 45 minutes or more — if the helicopter is available. Roadblocks are commonplace in Langkawi; they are mainly interested in locals with no licence. Make sure you have the above items and your seat belt fastened, and you will have no problems. ===By bicycle=== Some hotels offer bicycle rentals. Expect to pay between RM10-30 per day. ==See== * {{see | name=Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls aka Seven Wells | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.3817650 | long=99.6728860 | directions=Gunung Mat Cincang, Northwest corner of the island, 45 km from Kuah, walking distance from Oriental village and cable car (10 min) | phone=+60 4 9667789 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Langkawi Malaysia Seven-wells-05.jpg | content=This waterfall is named after the seven natural pools along its path. Legend has it that fairies used to come down to the pools to bathe and frolic. There are 2 viewing areas at Telaga Tujuh. The lower area is at the base of the waterfall and the higher area is where the 7 pools are. You can bathe in the pools and even slide down the slick rock between them. To get to the 7 pools, you must climb 638 steps which can be quite slippery when wet. As with most Malaysian tourist sites, the toilet facilities are not maintained and rubbish is strewn everywhere. There is also a jungle trekking course available at the site which will lead you through a trail of about 2,500m, up 2 mountains. This trail is achievable with slippers, but it is best to wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots as some segments of the trail are nearly vertical. These trails are not recommended for family trips. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Gunung Raya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.36890 | long=99.81852 | directions=take the snaking paved road through the jungle | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The tallest mountain on the island, at 881m, in a rainforest habitat. The peak can be reached via a 25-minute drive on a canopy-covered road lined with leafy pandan and banana trees or by climbing 4,287 steep stairs, estimated to take 2 hours 15 minutes each way. The stairs may be covered in fallen trees or landslides after rainfall. The summit offers a panoramic view over Langkawi and surrounding islands in the Andaman Sea, although the view is often obstructed by fog – make sure to visit on a clear day. Wildlife includes monkeys, squirrels, hornbills, lizards, and geckos. There is also an abandoned resort at the summit that has fallen into disrepair. }} * {{see | name=Crocodile Adventureland | alt= | url=http://www.porosus.com/croc/ | email= | address=Jalan Datai, Mk. Ayer Hangat | lat=6.4023432 | long=99.7123030 | directions=on the way to Teluk Datai | phone=+60 4 9592559 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 9AM-6PM, show time: daily at 11:15AM & 2:45PM, hourly feedings | price=Adult RM25, child RM18 (below 12 yrs), Malaysian: RM18/12 | content=Over 1,000 crocodiles and alligators. Witness a boxing match of man vs crocodile, or take a ride in a rickshaw drawn by a crocodile. this attraction will not be enjoyed by some visitors, the crocodiles are inbred and deformed. }} * {{see | name=Laman Padi Rice Garden | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/lamanpadilangkawiofficial/ | email= | address= | lat=6.29861 | long=99.72248 | directions=northern end of Pantai Cenang, opposite Casa Del Mar Hotel | phone=+60 4 955 4312 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-6PM | price=Free | content=Rice fields and nice landscaping. Museum in English details the process of cultivating rice. Guided tours are available. }} * {{see | name=Taman Lagenda | alt=Legenda Park | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.311141 | long=99.854548 | directions=400 m from Kuah Jetty beside the CHOGM Park and Al-Hana Mosque. | phone=+60 4 9664223 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8AM-11PM | price=Adults RM5, children RM2.50 | image=Legend Park Langkawi - path along the seaside.JPG | content=Beautiful garden on {{acre|50}}, designed based on Langkawi heritage. }} [[Image:Entrance to Underwater World, Langkawi.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Underwater World]] * {{see | name=Underwater World | alt= | url=https://www.underwaterworldlangkawi.com/ | email= | address= | lat=6.28799 | long=99.7289 | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 4 9556100 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9:30AM-6:30PM, Sa Su 9:30AM-8:30PM | price=RM53 for adults and RM43 for children | image=Entrance to Underwater World, Langkawi.jpg | content=An indoor aquarium. Try to attend the feeding times. }} * {{see | name=Eagle Square | alt=Dataran Lang | url=https://naturallylangkawi.my/ | email= | address= | lat=6.30884 | long=99.85143 | directions= | phone=+60 4960 0600 | tollfree= | hours=24 hours | price=Free | image=Langkawi eagle.jpg | wikidata=Q48769617 | content=The square, featuring a giant eagle statue, is beautifully landscaped with scenic ponds, bridges and covered terraces and is especially beautiful when illuminated at night. }} * {{see | name=Oriental Village | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.371 | long=99.6721 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8:30AM-6PM | price= | image=Oriental Village in Langkawi.JPG | content=Asian-themed village featuring restaurants, an exotic snake charmer, jugglers, silat displays, traditional music, kite flying demonstrations, palmistry, portrait painting and ZON free duty shop. A miserable elephant is forced to offer rides to tourists. A cable car up the mountain costs $20. Some describe this place as a tacky tourist trap. Rent a Segway to scoot around. }} * {{see | name=Langkawi Wildlife Park | alt=Taman Hidupan Liar | url=https://langkawiwildlifepark.com/ | email= | address=Jalan Ayer Hangat | lat=6.38729 | long=99.86188 | directions= | phone=+60 4966 5855 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 8:30AM-6PM | price=RM16–39 | content=A zoo with many wild animals. }} * {{see | name=Galeria Perdana | alt= | url=http://www.jmm.gov.my/en/museum/galeria-perdana | email= | address=Jalan Ayer Hangat | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 959 1498 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10AM-5PM | price=RM10 | content=Museum featuring gifts Malaysia has received from foreign countries. }} * ==Do== Organized activities in Langkawi include cruises via [[yacht]] or [[sailboat]], mangrove tours, island hopping tours, jet ski tours, [[birdwatching]] tours, nature walks, [[kayaking|kayak tours]], [[scuba diving]] & [[snorkelling]], helicopter tours, and jungle trekking tours. [[File:Langkawi Malaysia Langkawi-Sky-Bridge-01.jpg|thumb|Sky Bridge]] * {{do | name=Panorama Langkawi: SkyCab Cable Car Ride & Sky Bridge | alt= | url=https://panoramalangkawi.com/skybridge/ | email=info@panoramalangkawi.com | address= | lat=6.386442 | long=99.662406 | directions=in Oriental village, close to Pantai Kok | phone=+60 4 959 4225 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 9:30AM-7PM | price=Cable car+Skybridge RM43 Adult, RM33 child (Malaysians) RM85 adult, RM65 child for foreigners | wikipedia=Langkawi Sky Bridge | image=Langkawi cablecar bridge.jpg | wikidata=Q1164611 | content=Ride the cable car to the top of the jungle-clad Mt. Machincang and walk across the 700m high Sky Bridge for a spectacular view of the islands and Thailand. During peak times you may have to queue for up to 2 hours. At 125 m long, it is the world’s longest curved suspension bridge. Opened in 2003. The SkyBridge is at the top station of the cable car which can be reached using an elevator/cabin on a track (SkyGlide, RM15 for foreigners) or through a small forest trail (RM5 for foreigners), the trail is only around a 10-minute walk but involves a lot of stairs. The first cable car drop point (the mountain furthest east) can be walked to as well. You follow a path that takes you under the cable cars. Includes a very steep section which is spectacular both going up and coming down. Doesn't operate in bad weather. Also, it doesn't run during the regular maintenance days, check before you go. Officially you are not allowed to take food and drink on the cable car, but they seem not to be checking backpacks (when unlucky and all your water is taken by the security, you can buy one at the top). If they are not operating, or you are really into hiking, you can trek partway up the mountain through the jungle. To do this, from the parking lot at Telagah Tujuh Waterfalls go left just before the road goes really uphill and then turn left again at the water reservoir. The trek is very steep most of the way and in a pretty bad condition because the contractors laying down the piping for cables littered garbage all the way to the top. Only attempt this if you are fit and have good hiking boots. Temperatures at the top of the mountain are 4-5 ⁰C lower than at sea level. }} * {{do | name=Morac Adventure Park - Go-Karting | alt= | url=https://moracadventurepark.com/ | email= | address=Lot67, Jl Pantai Cenang | lat=6.316402 | long=99.724469 | directions= | phone=+60 4 955 5827, +60 4 955 5792 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=RM75 per session | image=Langkawi Go Kart.jpg | content=Morac International Karting features a 1,000-m track. }} * {{do | name=Golf at The Els Club Teluk Datai | alt= | url=https://www.thedatai.com/experiences/golf/ | email= | address= | lat=6.4263 | long=99.6859 | directions=Northern part of the island | phone=+60 4 959 2620 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=RM400 for 18 holes or RM300 for 9 holes | content=There is a world-class, 18-hole golf course designed by Ernie Els near the Datai resort. }} ===Beaches=== * {{do | name=Pantai Cenang | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.29576 | long=99.72239 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Langkawi Pantai Cenang 2.JPG | wikidata=Q33328099 | content=The most popular beach in Langkawi, features fine powdery sand and many beachfront restaurants and bars. Located at the south-western tip of the island, 2 km long. }} * {{do | name=Pantai Tengah | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.2817 | long=99.7294 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Jalan Pantai Tengah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia - panoramio - jetsun.jpg | content=Located just south of and contiguously with Pantai Cenang. 1 km long. Means ‘Middle Beach’. Peaceful and tranquil alternative to the hustle and bustle of Pantai Cenang. All-inclusive resorts are popular with families. }} * {{do | name=Pantai Kok | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.3665 | long=99.6796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Langkawi Malaysia Pantai-Kok-Lighthouse-01.jpg | content=Isolated, relatively undisturbed stretch of beach in the western part of Langkawi Island, 12 km north of Pantai Cenang. Telaga Harbour, and the cable car ride to the peak of Mat Cincang Mountain and the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls are located here. }} * {{do | name=Tanjung Rhu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.45747 | long=99.82444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7446891 | content=Northernmost tip of the island. Centuries-old limestone caves, mangroves, waterways, limestone crags and sandy beaches make it a nature lover's paradise. This beach is made up of 2 long stretches that includes Tanjong Rhu Resort and Four Seasons, half of the Tanjung Rhu beach belongs to these resorts, and guards don't allow you to trespass the limits of their beach. }} * {{do | name=Datai Bay Beach | alt= | url=http://www.thedatai.com/langkawi/ | email= | address= | lat=6.42804 | long=99.67375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The most expensive resorts are located here. }} * {{do | name=Burau Bay | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.36477 | long=99.66928 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Beach lined with rocky outcrops located on the West Coast of Langkawi. Nearby Burau island is also a roosting place for migratory birds. }} * {{do | name=Pantai Pasir Hitam | alt=Black Sand Beach | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.42775 | long=99.79493 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Langkawi Malaysia Fisherboat-at-Pantai-Pasir-Hitam-01.jpg | content=The sand is mixed in white and black shades, due to rich tin and iron ore deposits. }} * {{do | name=Pantai Pasir Tengkorak | alt=Skull Beach | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.43065 | long=99.7265 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Very beautiful small beach in the north of the island. The beach got its name from skulls which were washed ashore in the 1940s. Prisoners and wardens from the nearby Thai island Ko Tarutao became pirates, throwing the bodies of those they had killed into the sea. }} ==Buy== ATMs and money exchange booths are available at the Langkawi Airport, at Langkawi Parade Shopping Complex, next to Underwater World at Pantai Cenang and at Cenang Mall. Langkawi is a duty-free island, and alcohol is significantly cheaper here than in the rest of Malaysia. Hotel tariffs and retail goods are exempt from government duty. Visitors with more than 48 hr stay in Langkawi are exempt on items like wines and liquor (1 liter), tobacco (200 cigarettes), apparel, cosmetics, souvenirs and gifts, food and food preparations and portable electronic items (one item). Shop around before buying: the airport is probably the most expensive place to buy anything. Shop in Kuah town for batik, tobacco products and chocolate confectioneries. * {{buy | name=Langkawi Parade Megamall | alt=Langkawi Parade Shopping Complex | url=https://www.langkawi-parade.com/about.html | email= | address=A-14-15 Pokok Asam, Kuah | lat=6.327202 | long=99.838388 | directions=In Kuah, 10 min ride from the Kuah Jetty | phone=+60 4 9667528 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-10PM | price= | wikidata=Q115370791 | content=One of the largest duty-free shopping complexes in Langkawi. A one-stop shopping location for wines & liquors, chocolates, local souvenirs, clothing & beachwear, luggage, home decor, electronics and other products. Grocery store on bottom level offering fresh and frozen foods. }} * {{buy | name=The Zon Duty-Free Shopping Complex | alt= | url=http://www.zon.com.my | email= | address= | lat=6.287125 | long=99.729363 | directions=Pantai Cenang, next to Underwater World | phone=+60 4 9555300 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-7PM| price= | wikidata=Q115376483 | content=Cheap place to buy cigars, cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, clothing, electronics, chocolates, and biscuits. }} * {{buy | name=Kompleks Budaya Kraf | alt= | url=https://www.kraftangan.gov.my/kompleks-kraf/kompleks-kraf-langkawi | email= | address= | lat=6.420382 | long=99.780361 | directions=Northeastern Coast | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q115396068 | content=Enormous handicrafts centre built in neo-Islamic style. }} * {{buy | name=KV Tobacco | url= | email= | address=136, Kompleks Kelana Mas | lat= | long= | directions=5 min walk away from Kuah, in an area called the Trimula | phone=+60 19 5422558 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 1:30-8:30PM | price= | content=Well-stocked tobacco and cigar shop. Easily recognisable by a big orange signboard, and door painting by the left. Has a variety of Cuban cigars, rare European smoking pipes and packed tobaccos. Knowledgeable and friendly shop owner. }} == Eat == There are food stalls and restaurants all over Langkawi. Try one of the many seafood restaurants. Langkawi people like their food hot and spicy, and even if they tone things down at your request, you may still find your food challenging to eat. Seafood or fish may be priced by weight or by a set price for the dish - clarify before ordering. === Budget === For a taste of simple Malay-style breakfast, just walk up to a small stall opposite the Underwater World in the mornings and feast on the famous freshly-prepared banana leaf-wrapped ''nasi lemak'' (steamed rice in coconut milk). The price is most affordable at less than RM 2 for a pack. Go local and enjoy this with a glass of hot teh tarik or really good local coffee. This very unassuming stall is just simple and great (clean too!). The nasi lemak comes with curried beef, squid in chili, fried salted fish or chicken. * {{eat | name=AddaMaya Café | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang (near Haji Ramli's; or opposite Nadia's Comfort Inn) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small, cosy place for meals and coffee. The chef can whip up great meals - from local dishes to western fast food easily (and in that little cabin of his). It can get a bit dusty as it is located fronting the main road. Locals like to come here for good food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Rafi's Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=sandwiched between Restoran Aliah's and Tomato Nasi Kandar on Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=nasi lemak (RM3), local tea and coffee (RM1) | content=Rustic shack. No visible signboard either but ask around and you will find Rafi's. Rafi is a Penangite but has been on the island since 1988 so he considers himself very much local. Ask him for recommendations and he'll happily tell you. Ample parking space in front of his 'shack'. Good ambiance especially early mornings. }} * {{eat | name=Tomato Nasi Kandar | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Opposite Langkawi Boutique Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=RM1-3 for roti, RM 4-10 for main dishes | content=Typical budget Indian food establishment with patrons all day (and night!) long. Very crowded even in the wee hours of the morning. They serve an enormous variety of dishes, from the flavoured roti varieties to naan, briyani and kebabs. The standard is quite high - to an extent where the meal is extremely value-for-money. The only problem is that their waiters are exceedingly bad at taking orders. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Fatimah | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.327201 | long=99.782691 | directions=near the Kampung Tok Senik Resort on the road to Ulu Melaka | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q115299112 | content=Try this for really authentic Malay food. Their lunch spread is amazing - so amazing that they attract bus loads of Malaysian visitors. Just enjoy the food and leave your cultural baggage and complaints behind as you will be in a totally different ambience but friendly, nevertheless. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Almaz | url= | email= | address=northern end of Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions=Next door to the 'Laman Padi Rice Garden' and across the road from 'Casa Del Mar' | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=RM0.80-12 | content=A really nice little restaurant with Roti and Indian food that is very tasty and cheap. }} === Mid-range === * {{eat | name=Artisans Pizza Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.295422 | long=99.723837 | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=RM15 for main courses. RM30-38 for 11-inch pizzas | wikidata=Q115299652 | content=Offers freshly cooked pizzas with both traditional and Malaysian toppings. The satay pizza and sambal pizza are particularly good. You can dine in or takeaway and they also deliver to guesthouses and the beach. Their house specialties: Hungarian Goulash and Madam's Fishbake are particularly recommended. Tomato soup is also great. }} * {{eat | name=Babylon Mat Lounge & BBQ | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Right on Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mats are laid out on the sand for guests to sit on and there is a low table with a candle. They also have a live band or playlist that is passed off as a DJ. In contrast to the atmosphere, the staff are quite rude compared to other places. }} * {{eat | name=Cenang Boat Quay | url= | email= | address=Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers a variety of pizza, German sausages, pasta, local dishes, fusion food and a grilled fish hawker. The concept here is by individual hawker selling the different styles of food. Sunset view at the Quay. }} * {{eat | name=Champor Champur | url= | email= | address=Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderately wacky fusion food in a fusion setting courtesy of a Dutch-Malaysian couple with an affinity for Africa. Great ambiance - feels like eating in an outdoor garden. }} * {{eat | name=Fat Mum Restaurant | url= | email= | address=Pantai Tengah | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 2 4707863 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Just up the road from Awana Resort. Great authentic local Chinese seafood restaurant, good food for a reasonable price. }} * {{eat | name=Hole in the Wall Fishfarm & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kilim River, northeast part of the island | lat= | long= | directions=call for free shuttle | phone=+60 4 9675301 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Floating on the river, part of the amazing scenery of the Kilim Mangrove Forest. They serve the freshest Malay style seafood you will be able to eat on Langkawi island. The traditional dishes of freshly caught fish, prawns, crab, lobster. are famous. Shuttle service from Kilim jetty to the fishfarm restaurant and return is free of charge for lunch and dinner guests (However, if your bill is less than RM50, you have to pay an absurd amount for the shuttle. The logical workaround here is to order the cheapest available item to make the bill RM50) If you book a Mangrove Tour, you will most definitely end up having your lunch here. However, you may want to give their package buffet a pass and try their dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mimi | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=a few minutes walk from Underwater World, on the opposite side of the road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Snapper or grouper RM4/100 gram | content=Greatest 'ikan bakar' or grilled fish with tantalizing self-made sauce. Also offers a variety of traditional Malay dishes like tomyam and 'ayam masak merah' (chicken cooked in non-spicy sauce). }} * {{eat | name=Orkid Ria Seafood Restaurant | url=http://nicolekissdiet.blogspot.com/2008/11/orkid-ria-seafood-restaurant-langkawi.html | email= | address=Lot 1225 Jl Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 9554128 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 11AM-3PM and 6-11PM | price= | content=Some tables having water views. They have fresh seafood displayed out front. Choose from a wide range of cuisines, including dishes prepared in Malay, Thai, Chinese and Western styles. }} * {{eat | name=Rasa Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Good Malaysian food with reasonable prices. Seating available outdoor in courtyard overlooking main road or inside. }} * {{eat | name=Red Tomato Restaurant and Lounge | alt= | url=https://redtomatorestaurant.com.my | email=redtomatolangkawi@gmail.com | address=5 Casa Fina Ave | lat=6.286614 | long=99.730095 | directions=Pantai Cenang, in front of Underwaterworld tel | phone=+60 12 5136046 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-10:30PM | price= | wikidata=Q115249963 | content=Charm and great dishes. Look out for the owner's red VW Beetle parked in front of the place. Has great western breakfast and lunch menus, and pasta and tasteless pizza for dinner. Homemade bread, good choice of cheeses. Gluten-free pasta is available. Air-con and terrace seating, Free WiFi and a red piano. Owned by a German lady. }} * {{eat | name=Rose Tea 2 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Closed on Friday | price= | content=Thai food. Great service. }} * {{eat | name=Sun Cafe | url=http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com/suncafe/index.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A friendly and relaxing restaurant that offers a variety of Western food, Italian food, and Malaysian food. Hot and cold beverages, cappuccino to milkshake, fruit juice, mocktail. If you love fish, try their fillet of barracuda. They are also open for dinner too. Also famous for the very nice restrooms. }} * {{eat | name=Taj Mahal | alt= | url= | email= | address=Landcon Square | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Zon Shopping Mall | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Huge open-sided restaurant, also has an air-con room opposite for hot days. Specialises in Arabic and North Indian dishes all of which are very healthy, very tasty and very cheap. Very popular with locals and with Indian and Arabic holidaymakers. Great place to just sit around for a few hours occasionally ordering another batch of fresh flat breads and dips. }} * {{eat | name=T. Jay's Italian Bistro & Pizzeria | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang, opposite Underwater World | phone=+60 4 9553995 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 8AM-11PM | price= | content=Though this place looks a little sleepy, they make some great wood-fired pizzas. }} * {{eat | name=Telaga Arabic Cafe and Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The same kitchen serves an indoor dining area and a large outdoor area across the street. Good food with reasonable prices. Stay and enjoy some of the best hookah/shisha (tobacco water pipe) smoking anywhere. While good, the food is not as great as some Middle Eastern restaurants in Kuala Lumpur. }} * {{eat | name=Wonderland Food Store | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lot 179, 180, 181 Pusat Perniagaan Kelana Mas | lat=6.32469 | long=99.843878 | directions=Kuah | phone=+60 12 6230441 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 6–11:30PM | price= | wikidata=Q115351995 | content=Locals claim that Wonderland serves up the best seafood on Langkawi Island; offering local favourites of traditionally cooked seafood entrees, the chilli crab is especially flavorsome. Service is friendly and prompt and the atmosphere is lovely. }} === Splurge === * {{eat | name=La Sal at Casa del Mar | alt= | url=https://casadelmar-langkawi.com/ | email= | address= | lat=6.296501 | long=99.722622 | directions=Pantai Cenang, on the beach | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q115352492 | content=Serves modern Asian and Western cuisine with a focus high quality fresh produce. The bar offers a wide variety of wine from the old and new worlds and themed cocktails during their sunset, poolside post-dinner period. }} * {{eat | name=The Lighthouse Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=the edge of Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fantastic food on the beach wonderful views. }} * {{eat | name=The Loaf | alt= | url=https://www.theloaf.asia/langkawi-cenang-plaza/ | email= | address=Lot No. C9 Perdana Quay | lat= | long= | directions=Telaga Harbour Park | phone=+60 4950 2101 | tollfree= | hours=F-W 8AM-11PM | price=Bread from RM4 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=Japanese-style bakery & bistro owned by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed, ex-Prime Minister of Malaysia. Quality breads and full meals. Amazing view of the harbour and the yachts especially if you have your breakfast al-fresco outside. Attentive staff. Try Tun's Favourite Breakfast set (2 softboiled eggs, a bowl of mutton curry and thick toasted bread) with coffee and orange juice. Good place to have a leisurely breakfast. }} * {{eat | name=Papadam Indian Cuisine | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang (near Underwater World) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Indian restaurant that also serves Arabic food. }} * {{eat | name=Sunsutra Restaurant | url= | email= | address=Jl Teluk Baru | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fine dining restaurant that serves great Western food too. If you're a big fan of lamb, you must try their lamb shank. Tender and full of flavours. Its portion is huge too! Good for someone who wants a hearty meal. }} * {{eat | name=Unkaizan Japanese Restaurant | alt= | url=https://unkaizan.com/ | email= | address=Lot395 Jl Telok Baru Pantai | lat=6.270453 | long=99.734014 | directions=Near to Awana Porto Malai | phone=+60 4 9554118 | tollfree= | hours=Th-Tu 6-11PM | price= | wikidata=Q115353038 | content=Japanese restaurant, with excellent food and wonderful service. }} == Drink == Because of Langkawi's tax-free status, alcohol is much cheaper than in the rest of Malaysia. Religious Muslims do not consume alcoholic drinks, and while they do tolerate non Muslims who do, try not to behave in a rowdy imbibed manner near them, their houses, mosques, and please respect local culture and communal sensitivities. For those living on a budget, you can obtain alcohol at cheap prices from the local duty-free shops: the larger the outlets, the lower the prices. Expect to pay RM35 for 1 L Absolut Vodka, RM37 for 1 L of Johnny Walker Red Label, RM45 for 1 L Kahlua, RM60 for 1 L Bailey's, and RM70 for 1 L Chivas Regal 12 years. Small cans of beer: RM2.30 for Tiger Beer 330 ml and RM1.80 for some cheap Dutch beer. Small quantities? 500 ml of some random gin per RM15. Some of those prices can be as cheap as a half of the price of the same product on the Duty Free Shop of the International Airport at Kuala Lumpur (KLIA). Despite low alcohol prices, Langkawi is predominantly popular with couples and families. Single travelers and backpackers may therefore be disappointed with the lack of nightlife. The liveliest part of the island is the part around Cenang. Most bars remain empty, particularly in the low season, and the 1-2 nightclubs may only seem worthwhile in the peak season, and even then only on Friday or Saturday nights. Overall, Langkawi provides a family-friendly alternative to Thai locations such as Phuket and Koh Samui. * {{drink | name=Bam-Boo-Ba | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/bamboobaloungebar/ | email= | address=SunBlock, Jalan Teluk Baru, Pantai Tengah | lat=6.2782965 | long=99.7330971 | directions=End of Sunba Block beach | phone= | tollfree= | hours=5PM-Late | price= | content=A covered open-air bar and lounge. Cool music, comfortable & relaxed place with beer on tap, shooters and great cocktails, a big projector screen for sports events and fiber-optic broadband. Happy Hours 5-9PM: draft Tiger/Heineken 5RM, House pouring spirits buy 1 free 1 10RM, cocktails buy 2 free 1 16RM-22RM. }} * {{drink | name=OMG Restaurant at Paradise 101 | alt= | url=https://www.paradise101.com/omg-restaurant/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Take a ferry | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=One of best and liveliest sports bars in Langkawi. On its own island; you will need to take the ferry here. Offers beach volleyball, kayaking, sunset cruises, parasailing, jet skis, and other activities. }} * {{drink | name=Raffi's Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=514695731948438 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang beach | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Beer: RM4 | content=Beach bar. }} * {{drink | name=Sunba Retro Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jalan Teluk Baru | lat=6.278679 | long=99.733097 | directions=Pantai Tengah; 15 minutes walk from Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 4 9531801 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM - 4AM | price= | wikidata=Q115353216 | content=Attracts a good crowd after midnight. House band and DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Yellow Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/yelllowbeachcafe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang beach | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Beer RM7 | content=Beach bar. }} '''Bars in Kuah''' (Aug 2024) Despite being the islands "capital", the town of Kuah has a lot less going for it than Cenang in terms of bars. The following are the best/only places for a drink: * Cappuccino House Bistro ( BAR & CAFE ) * Cellar Bank Langkawi * The Blarney Stone Langkawi * Bottle & Glass Garden Cafe == Sleep == === Budget === Both luxury and eccentric hostels are common on Langkawi. If you are looking for budget accommodation, your best bet would be to walk along the beach and adjacent road at Pantai Cenang. It is hard to find budget accommodation in other beaches in Langkawi, except Pantai Cenang and Kuah town. Prices there normally range from RM50 to RM150 per room per night, on or next to the beach. * {{sleep | name=Rainbow Lodge | url=https://rainbowlangkawi.yolasite.com/ | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Kampung Haji Maidin, Pentai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM18, for a single bed in a mixed dorm. | content=20 beds. Each bed has its own cubicle room with curtain and directional fan. An outstanding bargain but no aircon or hot water. }} * {{sleep | name=AB Motel | url=http://abmotel.blogspot.com/ | email=abmotel@hotmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 4 9551300 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM120, sleeps 4 | content=30 rooms }} * {{sleep | name=Cenang Beach Motel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Northern end of Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 4 955 1395 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM55-75 | content=Good value. Clean rooms with fan or air-con directly on the beach. }} * {{sleep | name=Chandek Kura Hotel | alt= | url=http:///chandek_kura_hotel_1891252 | email= | address= | lat=6.330587 | long=99.748857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM89-120 | wikidata=Q115257100 | content=Nice rooms, but must drive to beach. }} * {{sleep | name=Gecko Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.296845 | long=99.724185 | directions=northern end of Pantai Cenang. Take the small road across from Orkid Ria restaurant | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm: RM15; Fan rooms: RM45-50 (shared bath RM35) | wikidata=Q115257252 | content=Bar on site. Nice lobby &mdash; comfy couch, wi-fi access, Astro TV playing, aquarium and friendly cats. They also have a few monkeys around one tree. Computers with internet access in the nearby Swiss Inn. }} * {{sleep | name=GeoPark Hotel & Dormitory | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Part of the Oriental Village | phone=+60 4959 2300 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=Dorm beds RM23, rooms RM245-480 | content=30 rooms. WiFi access in lobby. Outdoor pool. }} * {{sleep | name=Melati Tanjung Motel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.294624 | long=99.72451 | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM120-180 | wikidata=Q115257398 | content=Managed by a local family. All rooms have air-conditioning. }} * {{sleep | name=The Palms Guest House | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Fan room RM55, Aircon room RM85. Peak season fan RM75, air-con RM95 | content=8 rooms with queen beds (no twin rooms). Attached bathrooms with hot and cold shower. Mini-fridge. Free WiFi. }} * {{sleep | name=Senari Bay Resort | alt= | url=https://senari-bay-resort.business.site | email=senaribay@yahoo.com | address= | lat=6.303731 | long=99.720164 | directions=near Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 17 469 39 77 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=air-con room RM150 | wikidata=Q115257560 | content=12 clean rooms with queen beds and twin rooms), run by a lovely local couple. Attached bathrooms with hot and cold shower. Mini-fridge, TV, Private Beach, Free WiFi, Motor Scooter Rental, Fishing/boating trips with the owner. If you are looking for somewhere quiet and comfortable to get away from it all, without breaking the bank, then Senari Bay Resort is a good option. 15 min walk from Pantai Cenang. }} * {{sleep | name=Bumi Langkawi Homestay | alt= | url=http://bumilangkawi.com/ | email=bumilangkawi@gmail.com | address=No.70,Taman Cenderawasih | lat=6.322416 | long=99.784516 | directions= | phone=+60 12 4752880, +60 19 7208708 | tollfree= | fax=+60 4 9559677 | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=RM350-450/day (vary during peak season) | wikidata=Q115257716 | content=15-min drive from jetty at Kuah. The homestay has 4 rooms, 2 bathrooms and kitchen complete with electric appliances such as TV with Astro, refrigerator, washing machine, and water heater. Air-con and fan and provides blankets and towels. This homestay is spacious and suitable for a large group vacation trip (max 15 person including children; additional charges will apply for extra blankets, towels and pillows). }} * {{sleep | name=Bougainvillea Holiday Homes | url=http://www.picturetrail.com/bougainvillea | email=bougainvillea.langkawi@gmail.com | address=Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=3 self-catering holiday homes for weekly or long term rental. Situated in a quiet location, near Underwater World. 2 fully furnished, 1-bedroom houses (houses 1 and 2 double bed + single bed or roll out sofa ) and one chalet/studio, (house 3 - double bed). Air-con, self-catering kitchen, fully furnished, clean and comfortable amenities & quality linen, cleaning products provided, good security, mosquito nets, smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Houses 1 and 2 have secluded and covered gardens. House 3 has covered seating area at front with table and chairs. Outside parking. Weekly rates (7 nights) from approx. RM1,200 and longer term prices are negotiable. }} * {{sleep | name=Rumours Guesthouse and Cafe | alt= | url=http://rumoursguesthouselangkawi.wordpress.com/ | email=awieahmad@yahoo.com | address=Jalan Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi Kedah Darul Aman | lat= | long= | directions=Opposite side of the road to Duty Free Mall Zon, and about 100m north. It is down a little road about 50-100m | phone=+60 4 9552632, +60 175600803 (Awie) | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Really nice little guesthouse. Chilled atmosphere and very reasonable prices. The rooms are basic and clean, only cold water but in this place that is fine. Free Wi-Fi and the lounge area is comfortable enough. They have dorms from RM15, rooms with shared bathrooms for RM40, rooms with attached bathrooms for RM60 and rooms with air-con and hot showers from RM80. }} * {{sleep | name=Eylizar Homestay Langkawi | alt= | url= | email=langkawihomestay490@gmail.com | address=No.490 Taman Nilam | lat=6.37872 | long=99.86864 | directions=Jalan Ayer Hangat | phone=+60 195640251 (Whatsapp) | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=RM150-250 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=More than 15 units, 10 units Serviced apartments with swimming pool in Kuah town, guest house and chalet with swimming pool as well. Car rentals and local tours can be arranged. Most of the home stay have 3 bedrooms and 2 bathroom, full kitchen with electric appliances such as TV with Astro, refrigerator, washing machine, Air con, ceiling fan, blankets, towel. The home stay and serviced Apartment is suitable for large family group vacation trip (max 15 persons including children) no charge for extra pillow and blankets. }} === Mid-range === * {{sleep | name=Awana Porto Malai | url=http://www.awana.com.my/en/apm/index.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Southern tip of Langkawi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM245-4,800 w/breakfast; up to 15% off for booking online | content=208 spacious rooms and suites offer panoramic views of the lagoon and nearby islands and equipped with modern amenities and facilities. Fun swimming pool with fountains and slide for kids. }} * {{sleep | name=Bayview Langkawi | alt= | url=http://www.bayviewhotels.com/langkawi/ | email=bayviewlangkawi@bayviewhotels.com | address= | lat=6.323057 | long=99.849156 | directions=Downtown Kuah | phone=+60 4 9661818 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM240-530 w/breakfast | wikidata=Q115264785 | content=High-rise hotel with 282 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Star Resort | alt= | url=http://www.beststarresort.com | email=info@beststarresort.com | address=Lot PT 892, Jalan Pantai Cenang | lat=6.291177 | long=99.72643 | directions=Pantai Cenang, next to AB Motel | phone=+60 4 9551808 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM180-270 | wikidata=Q115271890 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=Beach front resort. Clean, comfortable and friendly. Coffee Garden. Air-conditioned rooms. Somehow, the hotel room TV sets are not equipped with remote control. And, make sure you get a room with a beach view, otherwise it might not be worth staying. }} * {{sleep | name=Charlie Motel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone=+60 4 9551200 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM85-145 | content=Dialysis treatment also available }} * {{sleep | name=Citin Hotel Langkawi by Compass Hospitality | url=http://www.citinlangkawi.com/ | email=enquiry@citinlangkawi.com | address=No. 3, Jl Pekan | lat=6.324567 | long=99.846124 | directions=in Kuah town | phone=+60 3 966 9000 | tollfree= | fax=+60 3 966 9001 | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM90 | content=Renovated, 46 cozy rooms, clean, air-con, 22" LCD flat screen TV, ensuite bathroom. There is a cafe which provides a decent breakfast and the lobby is with WiFi. The friendly staff are well informed about the island. }} * {{sleep | name=CoCoTop Hotel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Kelibang Kuah Langkawi, 5-10 min to town and jetty. | phone=+60 4 9672559 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Ranging from RM70-100 or approximately US$25-$40 | content=Quiet, Clean, air-con, friendly Environment with a hint of bakery fragrant every morning from a local owned bakery, 30 room hotel with, attached bathroom (hot and cold shower) and two single beds and TV. }} * {{sleep | name=Eaglebay Hotel Langkawi | alt= | url=https://www.eaglebay.com.my | email=info@eaglebay.com.my | address=No. 33 Persiaran Putera, Kuah | lat=6.315637 | long=99.854572 | directions= | phone=+60 4 9668585,+60 19 4499880 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=from RM150-240 | wikidata=Q115281568 | lastedit=2022-11-19 | content=132 rooms with air-con. The hotel's Central Park Restaurant has Malay, Chinese and Western cuisine. }} * {{sleep | name=Helang Hotel | alt= | url= | email=hotelhelang@po.jaring.my | address=Jalan Lima | lat= | long= | directions=located on airport grounds | phone=+60 4 9553030 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM155 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=232 spacious rooms. Airport accommodation. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Villa Resort | url=http://www.holidayvillalangkawi.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= RM300-1,400 | content=2 swimming pools, 3 tennis courts. 258 sea-facing guest-rooms and luxurious suites TV, in-house movies, air-con, fridge, mini bar, in-room coffee/tea-making facilities and in-room safe deposit box. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Langkasuka Langkawi | alt=Langkasuka Hotel | url=http://www.hotellangkasuka.com | email=inquiries@hotellangkasuka.com | address=Batu 3/4, A-14-15 Pokok Asam | lat= | long= | directions=in Kuah, 20 min from Langkawi International Airport and 10 min from Kuah Jetty | phone=+60 4 9666828 | tollfree= | fax=+60 4 9661371 | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM125 w/breakfast; year round discounts if booked online | content=168 spacious rooms and suites. All rooms with air-con, heated showers and mini refrigerator. }} * {{sleep | name=Kampung Tok Senik Resort | url=http://www.toksenikresort.com/ | email= | address=Lot 1577, Kawasan Mata Air, Mukim Ulu Melaka | lat= | long= | directions=Along the road to Ulu Melaka | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM150-350 + tax | content=Full facility resort. No beaches here but a truly green surrounding. }} * {{sleep | name=Kondo Istana Langkawi | url= | email= | address=Lot 575, Jalan Penarak, Kampung Padang Lalang, Mukin Kuah | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 9661118 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM125 | content=15 budget rooms, all of which have air-con, cableTV, and refrigerator. Fitness room/gym, internet, and room service. }} * {{sleep | name=Langkawi Seaview Hotel | url=http://www.lseaview.com/ | email=sales@lseaview.com | address=Langkawi Seaview Hotel | lat= | long= | directions=Kuah | phone=+60 4 9660600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=143 rooms. WiFi. }} * {{sleep | name=Mutiara Burau Bay | url=http://www.langkawi-resorts.com/burau/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM270-1,700 | content=Sprawling resort the tropical rainforest. 4 restaurants and 150 cabanas. There's a long stretch of beach and plenty of space for you to stake your own private spot if you don't mind swimming in the sewage outfall. The Seashell Beach and Cafe is a nice little place you can while away the evening with a couple of drinks and a pretty good live band. Go early to get a table as it can fill up pretty quickly after dinner. }} * {{sleep | name=Sandy Beach Resort | alt= | url=https://sandybeachresort.maktiranahotel.com/ | email= | address=Jalan Pantai Cenang | lat=6.2926 | long=99.72573 | directions= | phone=+60 4 9551308 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q115298770 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=Rather sprawling... straddling both sides of Pantai Cenang road. The beach-facing rooms are most popular. The beachside BBQ is great. }} * {{sleep | name=Shirin Villa | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM150 w/breakfast | content=3 bedrooms (2 air-cond + 1 fan). For 6 people, suitable for couple, friends &amp family gathering. Fully furnished, AstroTV, Kitchen, fridge. }} * {{sleep | name=Tropical Resort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.280477 | long=99.731735 | directions=Pantai Tengah, opposite Sun Café | phone=+60 4 9554075 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM80 | wikidata=Q115298965 | content=Quiet and clean chalets. Owned by Musa and his German wife, Laila. Rooms come with fan or air-con, attached bathroom (hot and cold shower) and two single beds and TV. Short walk from the beach, convenience shops, Malay style eateries, car rentals, stylish cafés, spa. Long term stays at discounted rates are available. No alcohol is permitted. }} * {{sleep | name=Azio Hotel | url=http://aziohotel.com/ | email=info@aziohotel.com | address=1-19 Jalan Pandak Maya 7 | lat= | long= | directions=Located in Kuah, 20 min from Langkawi International Airport and 10 min from Kuah Jetty | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM95-125 w/o breakfast | content= Rooms with LCD TV, air-con, WiFi, heated showers, hair drier but no refrigerator. Clean. }} === Splurge === * {{sleep | name=The Andaman | url=http://www.luxurycollection.com/andaman | email=theandaman@luxurycollection.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 9591088 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM690 | content=Built in the middle of virgin tropical rainforest, between the Mat Cincang mountain range and the Andaman Sea. Centuries-old trees, many with huge buttress roots and jungle creepers envelope the resort. 186 rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Berjaya Langkawi Resort | alt= | url=http://www.berjayahotel.com/langkawi/ | email=langkawi.rsvn@berjayahotel.com | address=Karong Berkunci 200, Burau Bay | lat=6.36675 | long=99.66726 | directions=5 min walk to the Cable Car station at the Oriental Village | phone=+60 4 959 1888 | tollfree=+1 800 88 3236 (Malaysia only) | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Biggest hotel on the island, with 424 rooms and suites. There are 9 F&B outlets including the Sunken Pool Bar and Boat House Bar. Nature walks with a qualified guide are provided free of charge to guests. Beach football, kiddie pool, watersports. This resort has abundant wildlife, some unique to the island. }} * {{sleep | name=Bon Ton | url=http://www.bontonresort.com.my/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM490-1,190 | content=One of the island's most stylish and intimate resorts. 8 individually styled antique Malay villas. Nam Restaurant at Bon Ton is regarded as one of the best on the island. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa del Mar | alt=Pantai Cenang | url=http://www.casadelmar-langkawi.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=RM980 | content=Boutique resort with 34 sea-facing rooms. Day spa, gymnasium, non-motorised watersports facilities. Restaurant & cocktail bar on the beach. Suitable for couples and adults. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Century Langkawi Beach Resort | alt=formerly Sheraton | url= | email= | address=Teluk Nibong | lat=6.360652 | long=99.707615 | directions=2 miles south of telaga harbour | phone=+60 4 9528000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM500 | content=In 38 acres of spacious, lush tropical surroundings with private beach coves. }} * {{sleep | name=Century Suria Suites | alt= | url=http://www.anytimeholidays.com.my/ | email= | address=Jalan Taman Pelangi | lat=6.32682 | long=99.83495 | directions= | phone=+60 124087327 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=3-star serviced apartment hotel just outside of Kuah. }} * {{sleep | name=The Danna Langkawi | url=http://www.thedanna.com | email=sales@thedanna.com | address=Telaga Harbour Park, Pantai Kok | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 959 3288 | tollfree= | fax=+60 4 959 3188 | checkin= | checkout=noon | price=From RM1,250 | content=5-star resort of 125 rooms and suites, opened in December 2010. Constructed in British Colonial style. 5 levels with big, richly decorated rooms. Gymnasium, business centre, child care centre, billiards room and spa. Outside, a three tiered infinity pool overlooks a private beach, bordered by lounges. }} * {{sleep | name=Four Seasons Resort | url=http://www.fourseasons.com/langkawi/ | email= | address=Jl Tanjung Rhu | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 950 8888 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM1,850, 4th night is free | content=Middle Eastern influenced resort set on the beautiful Tanjung Rhu beach. Probably the best place to spot a billionaire on the island. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa | url=http://www.holidayvillahotellangkawi.com/index.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM420, promotional rate: RM525 and up for 2 nights | content=4-star 258-room picturesque resort covering 13 acres of land. Large swimming pool with open air jacuzzi, an indoor pool for ladies and the Amoras spa. }} * {{sleep | name=Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa | url=http://www.meritushotels.com/meritus-pelangi-beach-resort-spa-langkawi/index.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM2070 plus 10% service charge | lastedit=2017-08-06 | content=350 rooms are spread over 51 clusters of elegant wooden chalets offering pool, sea or lake views. The Meritus offers seven F&B outlets including two pool bars and the excellent Niyom Thai Restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Rebak Island Resort - Vivanta by Taj Langkawi | alt= | url=http://www.rebakislandresort.com/ | email=rmresv.malaysia@tajhotels.com | address=Pulau Rebak Besar | lat=6.294380 | long=99.700363 | directions=On privately-owned {{acre|390}} Rebak Besar Island, a 15-min ferry ride from Port Langkasuka jetty | phone=+60 4966 5566 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM525 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=94 rooms. Managed by India's Taj Group of Hotels. It consists of clusters of timber chalets. The hotel has the only fully equipped marina in Malaysia. }} * {{sleep | name=Sang Ria | url=http://www.purveyorofdreams.com | email= | address=Jl Tasik Anak | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A tastefully designed beach villa in a contemporary Asian style. Their breakfast is delicious but must be booked in advance. Near great restaurants, bars and cafes. }} * {{sleep | name=Tanjung Rhu Resort | url=http://www.tanjungrhu.com.my | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Standard rooms from RM1,400/night | content=A resort on what most people consider to be the best beach on the island. It has been built to minimize any environmental damage and to blend in well with its surroundings. 60 m pool, abundant gardens, restaurants, very well maintained. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/lgkwi-the-westin-langkawi-resort-and-spa/ | email= | address=Jalan Pantai Dato Syed Omar, Kedah | lat=6.3001123 | long=99.8532113 | directions= | phone=+60 4-960 8888 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM700 | content=202 rooms and 400 villas }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Temple Tree Resort Langkawi Malaysia | alt= | url=https://www.templetree.com.my/ | email=enquiries@templetree.com.my | address=Lot 1053, Jalan Pantai Chenang, Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 17-599 5935 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Consists of 25 heritage houses. }} ==Connect== === Telephone === Mobile phone coverage is very good in all built up areas of Langkawi. Many affordable pre-paid phone and data plans are available. Recharge cards are readily available except for the very cheap TuneTalk which is harder to find and SIM cards almost non existent. It is best to buy this back in LLCT where no commission is charged on the SIM. Full reception and reasonable data speeds can be achieved on the beach and inside the resorts on Pantai Cenang and Pantai Tengah. === Post === The main post office in located in Kuah Town. Mini post offices can be found in Padang Mat Sirat. There is no post office in Pantai Cenang, but you can buy stamps and send postcards in T Shoppe on the main road. Courier service, Poslaju shop can be found at Taman Berlian, Kuah. === Internet === Broadband is available and some Internet cafés can be found along Pantai Tengah, Pantai Cenang and Kuah. In addition, many of the upscale hotels, resorts, and restaurants provide free WiFi. == Stay healthy == The biggest health risk on Langkawi is from jellyfish stings, especially during January - June season. Uninformed visitors are stung every day and the lifeguards on Pantai Cenang and the hospital treat more or less severe cases of jellyfish stings most days. There are several species of jellyfish in Langkawi's waters, while most will give you a nasty sting or a burn, there are some that will cause partial paralysis or even kill, in case of the lethal box jellyfish. If you have been stung badly, don't exert yourself physically as this will pump the toxins around the bloodstream and aggravate the symptoms. Vinegar is the only scientifically proven treatment for tropical jellyfish stings, apply it for 30 seconds to block toxin which has not yet been absorbed into the blood. To stay safe, swim only in stinger suit. Langkawi can have a lot of '''mosquitoes''' depending on the time of year and location (i.e. Mangrove areas), so don't forget to use mosquito repellent. "Off" spray and various citronella or DEET based products are available in most supermarkets. Average temperatures are hot or hotter; it's the tropics. Be sure to stay '''hydrated'''. You will need to drink about 3 litres a day and don't wait till you are thirsty to drink. Room temperature water preferably. De-hydration accounts for a large percentage of dodgy tummy holiday illnesses. See also [[Tropical diseases]]. ==Stay safe== Speedboats can often bounce off the waves at very high speeds and passengers can get quite strong jolts into the non-sprung seats, so persons with back or neck problems should not travel on the speedboats, but on the ferry. There have been reports of serious back injuries happening on the speedboats. They are also known as 'vomit comets' due to the number of people succumbing to sea sickness. Bring lots of water and be prepared for a bumpy ride! Also be very careful while swimming. At times, tides and currents can be very aggressive and not easy to spot. Be careful driving around Langkawi at night. Although main roads are well-lit, some of the more minor roads are not very well lit and may pass through Kampungs (traditional Malay villages) or rural areas where the locals seem to take a very casual approach to '''road safety'''. Drive slow and watch out for erratically piloted motorbikes, pedestrians and livestock. Inside Kuah Town, watch out for errors in the road arrows - they may lead you into wrong lanes or into barricades. at night, watch out for water buffalo sleeping in the road. '''Crime''' is generally not a problem on Langkawi, especially compared to the larger cities in Malaysia. In theory, you don't even have to lock your car, because it cannot get off the island without customs knowing about it! Beware of '''smart wild monkeys'''. Those at Tengkorak beach attack humans who have food. If attacked, pick up stones (or just pretend to do so) and throw them at the monkeys, this will scare them away. Also, do not carry plastic bags as the monkeys associate these with food. Don't let them get too close to you or they will steal your glasses. Please read up on rip tides before you go; learn to recognise and to avoid them. == Respect == Langkawi is a Geopark but still needs to improve its environmental friendliness. Don't participate in certain activities such as eagle feeding and monkey feeding as this harms the animals by encouraging them to become reliant on tourists and you may give them the wrong food. ==Go next== * [[Ko Lipe]] &mdash; Great diving and snorkeling at the only inhabited island in Tarutao National Marine Park, a short speedboat ride (1½ hr) away on the Thai side of the border. * [[Ko Tarutao]] &mdash; Another island in Tarutao National Marine Park, however does not suffer from the rapid development issues faced by Ko Lipe. * [[Penang]] {{geo|6.53|99.8|zoom=10}} {{isPartOf|Kedah}} {{usablecity}} 277svdgfzspg1uf021e2phnyegcip39 5091189 5091182 2025-07-11T05:11:00Z Tryptamine dreamer 570692 /* By boat */ detailed update on ferries (Kuala Perlis / Kuala Kedah / Tammalang) as of May + July 2025 5091189 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Langkawi banner Sky Bridge.jpg}} [[File:Langkawi Malaysia (26).JPG|thumb|right|240px|Sun, sand and sea on the beach]] [[Image:Sunrise over Pantai Cenang.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Sunrise over Langkawi]] '''[https://pbt.kedah.gov.my/index.php/majlis-perbandaran-langkawi-bandaraya-pelancongan/ Langkawi]''' (Jawi: لانكاوي), officially known as "Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah" ([[Malay phrasebook|Malay]]: ''Langkawi Permata Kedah'') is an archipelago of 99 islands (an extra 5 temporary islands are revealed at low tide) in the Andaman Sea, 30 km off the mainland coast of [[Kedah]]. It is a popular destination due to its natural white sand beaches, lush jungle foliage, craggy mountain peaks and duty-free status, where alcohol is affordable. ==Understand== ===Politics and demographics=== The islands are a part of the state of [[Kedah]], adjacent to the border with [[Thailand]]. The total population of the islands is 99,000; however only two islands are inhabited: Pulau Langkawi, the largest island, with a population of 65,000 and Pulau Tuba. Langkawi is also an administrative district, with the town of Kuah as the capital and largest town. ===Etymology=== {{infobox|Legends of broken pots and seeping gravy|Langkawi's most prominent mountains, Gunung Macinchang and Gunung Raya, and a whole series of towns and villages are said to be named after a local legend. During the wedding feast of the marriage of giant Mat Raya's son and giant Mat Cincang's daughter, a fight broke out between the two wedding parties, reputedly because the son was caught flirting with another woman. Pots and pans were thrown, and a large pot of gravy (''kuah'') was broken and the contents flowed onto the ground. The place where the gravy was spilled became known as Kuah (the largest town on Langkawi island) and where the crockery (''belanga'') was broken (''pecah'') was the location of the village Kampung Belanga Pecah. The gravy seeped into (''kisap'') the earth at the village named Kisap.}} The name "Langkawi" has two possible origins. First, it is believed to be related to the kingdom of Langkasuka, itself a version of the [[Malay phrasebook|Malay]] ''negari alang-kah suka'' ("the land of all one's wishes"), centered in modern-day [[Kedah]]. The historical record is sparse, but a Chinese Liang Dynasty record (c. 500 AD) refers to the kingdom of "Langgasu" as being founded in the 1st century AD. Second, it could be a combination of the Malay words 'helang', meaning "eagle" and 'kawi', meaning "reddish-brown" or "strong", in old Malay. ===History=== Langkawi was long under the influence of the Kedah Sultanate, founded in 1136 AD upon the introduction of Islam. Kedah, including Langkawi, was conquered in 1821 by the State of Siam (now [[Thailand]]). During the invasion by the Siamese, the leaders were killed, many islanders were taken as slaves, and most of the population fled. In the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909, the Siamese ceded control of the island to the British, who held the state until Malaysian independence in 1957, except for a brief period of Thai rule under the Japanese occupation of Malaya during World War II. Thai influences remain visible in the culture and food of Langkawi. Langkawi remained a sleepy backwater island until 1987, when the island was granted tax-free status with the intention of promoting tourism to improve the lives of the islanders. ===Climate=== Sheltered by the mountainous backbone of [[Peninsular Malaysia]], Langkawi is not affected by the northeastern winter monsoon and enjoys sunny skies in winter when the eastern provinces are flooded. ===Preservation=== The 10,000 hectares of Langkawi and its 99 islands were declared a geopark by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 2007. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Langkawi International Airport | alt={{IATA|LGK}} | url=https://airports.malaysiaairports.com.my/langkawi | email= | address= | lat=6.329722 | long=99.728611 | directions=at Padang Matsirat, on the northwestern part of the island | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Langkawi International Airport | image=Langkawi airport.png | wikidata=Q1431863 | content=There are direct flights to [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Singapore]], [[Penang]], and [[Johor Bahru]]. There are no air-bridges, so in the event of rain, the airline will supply umbrellas for the walk to the plane. }} ===By boat=== * '''Langkawi Ferry Line''' operates fast air-con ferries from [[Kuala Perlis]] (RM35 foreigners, 60 min, 6-8 trips each way daily between 7am and 6pm) and [[Kuala Kedah]] (RM45 foreigners, 105 min, same or slightly higher frequency) (the ferry is freezing cold, so bring warm clothes). '''Langkawi Andaman Ferry''' operates a similar ferry daily to [[Satun]] (RM55 / 450 baht, 75 min, departure time is 9:30am from Langkawi, 11:30am (Thai time) from Tammalang pier just near Satun). As of 2025, the tickets can be purchased online through '''[https://www.cuticutilangkawi.com/hcjSystem/modules/Ccl/travel Cuti Cuti Langkawi]''' website or in their app, along with numerous activities in Langkawi. * '''Tropical Charters''' [https://tropicalcharters.com.my/] operates ferries between Kuah Jetty in Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]]. The price is RM118 one way (RM100 if you book online), including the longtail boat transfer and Thai customs fees. Check-in is at the inner entrance of the Jetty Point Food Court, opposite 7/11, 1 hour before departure. The trip takes 90 minutes. Arrival in Ko Lipe is at the Bundhaya Resort. * '''[https://telaga-terminal.com/ Telaga Terminal]''' operates speedboats between Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]] (RM128 1-way, RM248 return, 75 min). These boats dock at a pontoon in Pattaya Bay from where there are longtail transfers to immigration on Pattaya Beach. * '''[https://www.tigerlinetravel.com Tigerline Ferry]''' operates between Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]]. * '''[https://www.spcthailand.com Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club Company]''' operates between Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]]. * '''[https://www.bundhayaspeedboat.com Bundhaya Speed Boat]''' operates between Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]]. Choose the Ferry (not Speedboat) tab on their website. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|6.37|99.78|zoom=11}}{{mapshape|wikidata=Q273303}} There is effectively no public transport on the island, so your choices are to use taxis or to rent a car, motorbike/scooter, or bicycle. ===By taxi=== Taxis and the Grab mobile app operate on a fixed price system. A taxi from the airport to Pantai Cenang costs RM20 or less with Grab. You can buy a coupon at the taxi desk at the airport. From the ferry terminal to Pantai Cenang, the price is RM24. For those arriving at the Kuah Jetty and going into Kuah Town, the price is RM8. ===By car or motorbike/scooter=== Renting a car or motorbike/scooter is highly recommended due to the lack of public transport. This can be done at the airport, the port complex, or from shops on Pantai Cenang. Refrain from renting from touts, as many are operating illegally without permits and usually without insurance. Accidents happen to tourists on motorbikes/scooters regularly, so be careful although the traffic is not as chaotic as in Penang and other areas. The roads are in good condition. Most rental agencies will not provide full insurance coverage and you have to cover the damage up to RM3000 if there is any accident. Renting an air-conditioned mid-sized sedan costs RM70-RM150 per day depending on model, condition and length of stay and a 150cc motorbike/scooter costs RM40-45 per day. Cheaper but usually very used and older are the semi-automatic 115cc bikes for RM25 a day. A tired Proton within Pantai Cenang costs RM60-90/day. Check your fuel level regularly because petrol pump stations (gas stations) are far from one another. Most rental agencies do not care how much fuel is in the tank when the vehicle is returned, although some may do so and mark it on the receipt. Fuel costs are cheap and are fixed by the government and you should return the bikes with the same filling level as you picked it up. The first time at a gas/petrol station will confuse you. You will need to guess how much fuel you need and pay first. Most saloon cars, if empty, are RM50 to fill up and motorbikes are approximately RM5. Sometimes you fill up your car/bike and you haven't used what you have paid for; not to worry, as you can claim this back at the counter. Remember to drive safely and slowly on the island and on the left side of the road. There are tourists, children and animals like chickens, cows and even buffaloes crossing. Take care not to run over the beautiful snakes or monitors. Cattle and snakes like to lie on the road at night; the blacktop radiates heat. Driving laws: # Your driver's licence needs to be with you at all times. An international driver's licence is not necessary but licences must have text in English. # Seat belts are mandatory in all vehicles. Fines are given ranging from RM50 if not wearing one. # Helmets are mandatory. Fines are the same as above but more importantly, the hospital does not have facilities to treat head injuries, so you will have to get a medivac out to Penang, which takes 45 minutes or more — if the helicopter is available. Roadblocks are commonplace in Langkawi; they are mainly interested in locals with no licence. Make sure you have the above items and your seat belt fastened, and you will have no problems. ===By bicycle=== Some hotels offer bicycle rentals. Expect to pay between RM10-30 per day. ==See== * {{see | name=Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls aka Seven Wells | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.3817650 | long=99.6728860 | directions=Gunung Mat Cincang, Northwest corner of the island, 45 km from Kuah, walking distance from Oriental village and cable car (10 min) | phone=+60 4 9667789 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Langkawi Malaysia Seven-wells-05.jpg | content=This waterfall is named after the seven natural pools along its path. Legend has it that fairies used to come down to the pools to bathe and frolic. There are 2 viewing areas at Telaga Tujuh. The lower area is at the base of the waterfall and the higher area is where the 7 pools are. You can bathe in the pools and even slide down the slick rock between them. To get to the 7 pools, you must climb 638 steps which can be quite slippery when wet. As with most Malaysian tourist sites, the toilet facilities are not maintained and rubbish is strewn everywhere. There is also a jungle trekking course available at the site which will lead you through a trail of about 2,500m, up 2 mountains. This trail is achievable with slippers, but it is best to wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots as some segments of the trail are nearly vertical. These trails are not recommended for family trips. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Gunung Raya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.36890 | long=99.81852 | directions=take the snaking paved road through the jungle | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The tallest mountain on the island, at 881m, in a rainforest habitat. The peak can be reached via a 25-minute drive on a canopy-covered road lined with leafy pandan and banana trees or by climbing 4,287 steep stairs, estimated to take 2 hours 15 minutes each way. The stairs may be covered in fallen trees or landslides after rainfall. The summit offers a panoramic view over Langkawi and surrounding islands in the Andaman Sea, although the view is often obstructed by fog – make sure to visit on a clear day. Wildlife includes monkeys, squirrels, hornbills, lizards, and geckos. There is also an abandoned resort at the summit that has fallen into disrepair. }} * {{see | name=Crocodile Adventureland | alt= | url=http://www.porosus.com/croc/ | email= | address=Jalan Datai, Mk. Ayer Hangat | lat=6.4023432 | long=99.7123030 | directions=on the way to Teluk Datai | phone=+60 4 9592559 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 9AM-6PM, show time: daily at 11:15AM & 2:45PM, hourly feedings | price=Adult RM25, child RM18 (below 12 yrs), Malaysian: RM18/12 | content=Over 1,000 crocodiles and alligators. Witness a boxing match of man vs crocodile, or take a ride in a rickshaw drawn by a crocodile. this attraction will not be enjoyed by some visitors, the crocodiles are inbred and deformed. }} * {{see | name=Laman Padi Rice Garden | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/lamanpadilangkawiofficial/ | email= | address= | lat=6.29861 | long=99.72248 | directions=northern end of Pantai Cenang, opposite Casa Del Mar Hotel | phone=+60 4 955 4312 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-6PM | price=Free | content=Rice fields and nice landscaping. Museum in English details the process of cultivating rice. Guided tours are available. }} * {{see | name=Taman Lagenda | alt=Legenda Park | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.311141 | long=99.854548 | directions=400 m from Kuah Jetty beside the CHOGM Park and Al-Hana Mosque. | phone=+60 4 9664223 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8AM-11PM | price=Adults RM5, children RM2.50 | image=Legend Park Langkawi - path along the seaside.JPG | content=Beautiful garden on {{acre|50}}, designed based on Langkawi heritage. }} [[Image:Entrance to Underwater World, Langkawi.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Underwater World]] * {{see | name=Underwater World | alt= | url=https://www.underwaterworldlangkawi.com/ | email= | address= | lat=6.28799 | long=99.7289 | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 4 9556100 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9:30AM-6:30PM, Sa Su 9:30AM-8:30PM | price=RM53 for adults and RM43 for children | image=Entrance to Underwater World, Langkawi.jpg | content=An indoor aquarium. Try to attend the feeding times. }} * {{see | name=Eagle Square | alt=Dataran Lang | url=https://naturallylangkawi.my/ | email= | address= | lat=6.30884 | long=99.85143 | directions= | phone=+60 4960 0600 | tollfree= | hours=24 hours | price=Free | image=Langkawi eagle.jpg | wikidata=Q48769617 | content=The square, featuring a giant eagle statue, is beautifully landscaped with scenic ponds, bridges and covered terraces and is especially beautiful when illuminated at night. }} * {{see | name=Oriental Village | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.371 | long=99.6721 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8:30AM-6PM | price= | image=Oriental Village in Langkawi.JPG | content=Asian-themed village featuring restaurants, an exotic snake charmer, jugglers, silat displays, traditional music, kite flying demonstrations, palmistry, portrait painting and ZON free duty shop. A miserable elephant is forced to offer rides to tourists. A cable car up the mountain costs $20. Some describe this place as a tacky tourist trap. Rent a Segway to scoot around. }} * {{see | name=Langkawi Wildlife Park | alt=Taman Hidupan Liar | url=https://langkawiwildlifepark.com/ | email= | address=Jalan Ayer Hangat | lat=6.38729 | long=99.86188 | directions= | phone=+60 4966 5855 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 8:30AM-6PM | price=RM16–39 | content=A zoo with many wild animals. }} * {{see | name=Galeria Perdana | alt= | url=http://www.jmm.gov.my/en/museum/galeria-perdana | email= | address=Jalan Ayer Hangat | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 959 1498 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10AM-5PM | price=RM10 | content=Museum featuring gifts Malaysia has received from foreign countries. }} * ==Do== Organized activities in Langkawi include cruises via [[yacht]] or [[sailboat]], mangrove tours, island hopping tours, jet ski tours, [[birdwatching]] tours, nature walks, [[kayaking|kayak tours]], [[scuba diving]] & [[snorkelling]], helicopter tours, and jungle trekking tours. [[File:Langkawi Malaysia Langkawi-Sky-Bridge-01.jpg|thumb|Sky Bridge]] * {{do | name=Panorama Langkawi: SkyCab Cable Car Ride & Sky Bridge | alt= | url=https://panoramalangkawi.com/skybridge/ | email=info@panoramalangkawi.com | address= | lat=6.386442 | long=99.662406 | directions=in Oriental village, close to Pantai Kok | phone=+60 4 959 4225 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 9:30AM-7PM | price=Cable car+Skybridge RM43 Adult, RM33 child (Malaysians) RM85 adult, RM65 child for foreigners | wikipedia=Langkawi Sky Bridge | image=Langkawi cablecar bridge.jpg | wikidata=Q1164611 | content=Ride the cable car to the top of the jungle-clad Mt. Machincang and walk across the 700m high Sky Bridge for a spectacular view of the islands and Thailand. During peak times you may have to queue for up to 2 hours. At 125 m long, it is the world’s longest curved suspension bridge. Opened in 2003. The SkyBridge is at the top station of the cable car which can be reached using an elevator/cabin on a track (SkyGlide, RM15 for foreigners) or through a small forest trail (RM5 for foreigners), the trail is only around a 10-minute walk but involves a lot of stairs. The first cable car drop point (the mountain furthest east) can be walked to as well. You follow a path that takes you under the cable cars. Includes a very steep section which is spectacular both going up and coming down. Doesn't operate in bad weather. Also, it doesn't run during the regular maintenance days, check before you go. Officially you are not allowed to take food and drink on the cable car, but they seem not to be checking backpacks (when unlucky and all your water is taken by the security, you can buy one at the top). If they are not operating, or you are really into hiking, you can trek partway up the mountain through the jungle. To do this, from the parking lot at Telagah Tujuh Waterfalls go left just before the road goes really uphill and then turn left again at the water reservoir. The trek is very steep most of the way and in a pretty bad condition because the contractors laying down the piping for cables littered garbage all the way to the top. Only attempt this if you are fit and have good hiking boots. Temperatures at the top of the mountain are 4-5 ⁰C lower than at sea level. }} * {{do | name=Morac Adventure Park - Go-Karting | alt= | url=https://moracadventurepark.com/ | email= | address=Lot67, Jl Pantai Cenang | lat=6.316402 | long=99.724469 | directions= | phone=+60 4 955 5827, +60 4 955 5792 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=RM75 per session | image=Langkawi Go Kart.jpg | content=Morac International Karting features a 1,000-m track. }} * {{do | name=Golf at The Els Club Teluk Datai | alt= | url=https://www.thedatai.com/experiences/golf/ | email= | address= | lat=6.4263 | long=99.6859 | directions=Northern part of the island | phone=+60 4 959 2620 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=RM400 for 18 holes or RM300 for 9 holes | content=There is a world-class, 18-hole golf course designed by Ernie Els near the Datai resort. }} ===Beaches=== * {{do | name=Pantai Cenang | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.29576 | long=99.72239 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Langkawi Pantai Cenang 2.JPG | wikidata=Q33328099 | content=The most popular beach in Langkawi, features fine powdery sand and many beachfront restaurants and bars. Located at the south-western tip of the island, 2 km long. }} * {{do | name=Pantai Tengah | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.2817 | long=99.7294 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Jalan Pantai Tengah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia - panoramio - jetsun.jpg | content=Located just south of and contiguously with Pantai Cenang. 1 km long. Means ‘Middle Beach’. Peaceful and tranquil alternative to the hustle and bustle of Pantai Cenang. All-inclusive resorts are popular with families. }} * {{do | name=Pantai Kok | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.3665 | long=99.6796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Langkawi Malaysia Pantai-Kok-Lighthouse-01.jpg | content=Isolated, relatively undisturbed stretch of beach in the western part of Langkawi Island, 12 km north of Pantai Cenang. Telaga Harbour, and the cable car ride to the peak of Mat Cincang Mountain and the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls are located here. }} * {{do | name=Tanjung Rhu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.45747 | long=99.82444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7446891 | content=Northernmost tip of the island. Centuries-old limestone caves, mangroves, waterways, limestone crags and sandy beaches make it a nature lover's paradise. This beach is made up of 2 long stretches that includes Tanjong Rhu Resort and Four Seasons, half of the Tanjung Rhu beach belongs to these resorts, and guards don't allow you to trespass the limits of their beach. }} * {{do | name=Datai Bay Beach | alt= | url=http://www.thedatai.com/langkawi/ | email= | address= | lat=6.42804 | long=99.67375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The most expensive resorts are located here. }} * {{do | name=Burau Bay | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.36477 | long=99.66928 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Beach lined with rocky outcrops located on the West Coast of Langkawi. Nearby Burau island is also a roosting place for migratory birds. }} * {{do | name=Pantai Pasir Hitam | alt=Black Sand Beach | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.42775 | long=99.79493 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Langkawi Malaysia Fisherboat-at-Pantai-Pasir-Hitam-01.jpg | content=The sand is mixed in white and black shades, due to rich tin and iron ore deposits. }} * {{do | name=Pantai Pasir Tengkorak | alt=Skull Beach | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.43065 | long=99.7265 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Very beautiful small beach in the north of the island. The beach got its name from skulls which were washed ashore in the 1940s. Prisoners and wardens from the nearby Thai island Ko Tarutao became pirates, throwing the bodies of those they had killed into the sea. }} ==Buy== ATMs and money exchange booths are available at the Langkawi Airport, at Langkawi Parade Shopping Complex, next to Underwater World at Pantai Cenang and at Cenang Mall. Langkawi is a duty-free island, and alcohol is significantly cheaper here than in the rest of Malaysia. Hotel tariffs and retail goods are exempt from government duty. Visitors with more than 48 hr stay in Langkawi are exempt on items like wines and liquor (1 liter), tobacco (200 cigarettes), apparel, cosmetics, souvenirs and gifts, food and food preparations and portable electronic items (one item). Shop around before buying: the airport is probably the most expensive place to buy anything. Shop in Kuah town for batik, tobacco products and chocolate confectioneries. * {{buy | name=Langkawi Parade Megamall | alt=Langkawi Parade Shopping Complex | url=https://www.langkawi-parade.com/about.html | email= | address=A-14-15 Pokok Asam, Kuah | lat=6.327202 | long=99.838388 | directions=In Kuah, 10 min ride from the Kuah Jetty | phone=+60 4 9667528 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-10PM | price= | wikidata=Q115370791 | content=One of the largest duty-free shopping complexes in Langkawi. A one-stop shopping location for wines & liquors, chocolates, local souvenirs, clothing & beachwear, luggage, home decor, electronics and other products. Grocery store on bottom level offering fresh and frozen foods. }} * {{buy | name=The Zon Duty-Free Shopping Complex | alt= | url=http://www.zon.com.my | email= | address= | lat=6.287125 | long=99.729363 | directions=Pantai Cenang, next to Underwater World | phone=+60 4 9555300 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-7PM| price= | wikidata=Q115376483 | content=Cheap place to buy cigars, cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, clothing, electronics, chocolates, and biscuits. }} * {{buy | name=Kompleks Budaya Kraf | alt= | url=https://www.kraftangan.gov.my/kompleks-kraf/kompleks-kraf-langkawi | email= | address= | lat=6.420382 | long=99.780361 | directions=Northeastern Coast | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q115396068 | content=Enormous handicrafts centre built in neo-Islamic style. }} * {{buy | name=KV Tobacco | url= | email= | address=136, Kompleks Kelana Mas | lat= | long= | directions=5 min walk away from Kuah, in an area called the Trimula | phone=+60 19 5422558 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 1:30-8:30PM | price= | content=Well-stocked tobacco and cigar shop. Easily recognisable by a big orange signboard, and door painting by the left. Has a variety of Cuban cigars, rare European smoking pipes and packed tobaccos. Knowledgeable and friendly shop owner. }} == Eat == There are food stalls and restaurants all over Langkawi. Try one of the many seafood restaurants. Langkawi people like their food hot and spicy, and even if they tone things down at your request, you may still find your food challenging to eat. Seafood or fish may be priced by weight or by a set price for the dish - clarify before ordering. === Budget === For a taste of simple Malay-style breakfast, just walk up to a small stall opposite the Underwater World in the mornings and feast on the famous freshly-prepared banana leaf-wrapped ''nasi lemak'' (steamed rice in coconut milk). The price is most affordable at less than RM 2 for a pack. Go local and enjoy this with a glass of hot teh tarik or really good local coffee. This very unassuming stall is just simple and great (clean too!). The nasi lemak comes with curried beef, squid in chili, fried salted fish or chicken. * {{eat | name=AddaMaya Café | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang (near Haji Ramli's; or opposite Nadia's Comfort Inn) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small, cosy place for meals and coffee. The chef can whip up great meals - from local dishes to western fast food easily (and in that little cabin of his). It can get a bit dusty as it is located fronting the main road. Locals like to come here for good food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Rafi's Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=sandwiched between Restoran Aliah's and Tomato Nasi Kandar on Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=nasi lemak (RM3), local tea and coffee (RM1) | content=Rustic shack. No visible signboard either but ask around and you will find Rafi's. Rafi is a Penangite but has been on the island since 1988 so he considers himself very much local. Ask him for recommendations and he'll happily tell you. Ample parking space in front of his 'shack'. Good ambiance especially early mornings. }} * {{eat | name=Tomato Nasi Kandar | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Opposite Langkawi Boutique Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=RM1-3 for roti, RM 4-10 for main dishes | content=Typical budget Indian food establishment with patrons all day (and night!) long. Very crowded even in the wee hours of the morning. They serve an enormous variety of dishes, from the flavoured roti varieties to naan, briyani and kebabs. The standard is quite high - to an extent where the meal is extremely value-for-money. The only problem is that their waiters are exceedingly bad at taking orders. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Fatimah | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.327201 | long=99.782691 | directions=near the Kampung Tok Senik Resort on the road to Ulu Melaka | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q115299112 | content=Try this for really authentic Malay food. Their lunch spread is amazing - so amazing that they attract bus loads of Malaysian visitors. Just enjoy the food and leave your cultural baggage and complaints behind as you will be in a totally different ambience but friendly, nevertheless. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Almaz | url= | email= | address=northern end of Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions=Next door to the 'Laman Padi Rice Garden' and across the road from 'Casa Del Mar' | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=RM0.80-12 | content=A really nice little restaurant with Roti and Indian food that is very tasty and cheap. }} === Mid-range === * {{eat | name=Artisans Pizza Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.295422 | long=99.723837 | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=RM15 for main courses. RM30-38 for 11-inch pizzas | wikidata=Q115299652 | content=Offers freshly cooked pizzas with both traditional and Malaysian toppings. The satay pizza and sambal pizza are particularly good. You can dine in or takeaway and they also deliver to guesthouses and the beach. Their house specialties: Hungarian Goulash and Madam's Fishbake are particularly recommended. Tomato soup is also great. }} * {{eat | name=Babylon Mat Lounge & BBQ | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Right on Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mats are laid out on the sand for guests to sit on and there is a low table with a candle. They also have a live band or playlist that is passed off as a DJ. In contrast to the atmosphere, the staff are quite rude compared to other places. }} * {{eat | name=Cenang Boat Quay | url= | email= | address=Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers a variety of pizza, German sausages, pasta, local dishes, fusion food and a grilled fish hawker. The concept here is by individual hawker selling the different styles of food. Sunset view at the Quay. }} * {{eat | name=Champor Champur | url= | email= | address=Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderately wacky fusion food in a fusion setting courtesy of a Dutch-Malaysian couple with an affinity for Africa. Great ambiance - feels like eating in an outdoor garden. }} * {{eat | name=Fat Mum Restaurant | url= | email= | address=Pantai Tengah | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 2 4707863 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Just up the road from Awana Resort. Great authentic local Chinese seafood restaurant, good food for a reasonable price. }} * {{eat | name=Hole in the Wall Fishfarm & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kilim River, northeast part of the island | lat= | long= | directions=call for free shuttle | phone=+60 4 9675301 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Floating on the river, part of the amazing scenery of the Kilim Mangrove Forest. They serve the freshest Malay style seafood you will be able to eat on Langkawi island. The traditional dishes of freshly caught fish, prawns, crab, lobster. are famous. Shuttle service from Kilim jetty to the fishfarm restaurant and return is free of charge for lunch and dinner guests (However, if your bill is less than RM50, you have to pay an absurd amount for the shuttle. The logical workaround here is to order the cheapest available item to make the bill RM50) If you book a Mangrove Tour, you will most definitely end up having your lunch here. However, you may want to give their package buffet a pass and try their dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mimi | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=a few minutes walk from Underwater World, on the opposite side of the road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Snapper or grouper RM4/100 gram | content=Greatest 'ikan bakar' or grilled fish with tantalizing self-made sauce. Also offers a variety of traditional Malay dishes like tomyam and 'ayam masak merah' (chicken cooked in non-spicy sauce). }} * {{eat | name=Orkid Ria Seafood Restaurant | url=http://nicolekissdiet.blogspot.com/2008/11/orkid-ria-seafood-restaurant-langkawi.html | email= | address=Lot 1225 Jl Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 9554128 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 11AM-3PM and 6-11PM | price= | content=Some tables having water views. They have fresh seafood displayed out front. Choose from a wide range of cuisines, including dishes prepared in Malay, Thai, Chinese and Western styles. }} * {{eat | name=Rasa Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Good Malaysian food with reasonable prices. Seating available outdoor in courtyard overlooking main road or inside. }} * {{eat | name=Red Tomato Restaurant and Lounge | alt= | url=https://redtomatorestaurant.com.my | email=redtomatolangkawi@gmail.com | address=5 Casa Fina Ave | lat=6.286614 | long=99.730095 | directions=Pantai Cenang, in front of Underwaterworld tel | phone=+60 12 5136046 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-10:30PM | price= | wikidata=Q115249963 | content=Charm and great dishes. Look out for the owner's red VW Beetle parked in front of the place. Has great western breakfast and lunch menus, and pasta and tasteless pizza for dinner. Homemade bread, good choice of cheeses. Gluten-free pasta is available. Air-con and terrace seating, Free WiFi and a red piano. Owned by a German lady. }} * {{eat | name=Rose Tea 2 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Closed on Friday | price= | content=Thai food. Great service. }} * {{eat | name=Sun Cafe | url=http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com/suncafe/index.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A friendly and relaxing restaurant that offers a variety of Western food, Italian food, and Malaysian food. Hot and cold beverages, cappuccino to milkshake, fruit juice, mocktail. If you love fish, try their fillet of barracuda. They are also open for dinner too. Also famous for the very nice restrooms. }} * {{eat | name=Taj Mahal | alt= | url= | email= | address=Landcon Square | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Zon Shopping Mall | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Huge open-sided restaurant, also has an air-con room opposite for hot days. Specialises in Arabic and North Indian dishes all of which are very healthy, very tasty and very cheap. Very popular with locals and with Indian and Arabic holidaymakers. Great place to just sit around for a few hours occasionally ordering another batch of fresh flat breads and dips. }} * {{eat | name=T. Jay's Italian Bistro & Pizzeria | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang, opposite Underwater World | phone=+60 4 9553995 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 8AM-11PM | price= | content=Though this place looks a little sleepy, they make some great wood-fired pizzas. }} * {{eat | name=Telaga Arabic Cafe and Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The same kitchen serves an indoor dining area and a large outdoor area across the street. Good food with reasonable prices. Stay and enjoy some of the best hookah/shisha (tobacco water pipe) smoking anywhere. While good, the food is not as great as some Middle Eastern restaurants in Kuala Lumpur. }} * {{eat | name=Wonderland Food Store | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lot 179, 180, 181 Pusat Perniagaan Kelana Mas | lat=6.32469 | long=99.843878 | directions=Kuah | phone=+60 12 6230441 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 6–11:30PM | price= | wikidata=Q115351995 | content=Locals claim that Wonderland serves up the best seafood on Langkawi Island; offering local favourites of traditionally cooked seafood entrees, the chilli crab is especially flavorsome. Service is friendly and prompt and the atmosphere is lovely. }} === Splurge === * {{eat | name=La Sal at Casa del Mar | alt= | url=https://casadelmar-langkawi.com/ | email= | address= | lat=6.296501 | long=99.722622 | directions=Pantai Cenang, on the beach | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q115352492 | content=Serves modern Asian and Western cuisine with a focus high quality fresh produce. The bar offers a wide variety of wine from the old and new worlds and themed cocktails during their sunset, poolside post-dinner period. }} * {{eat | name=The Lighthouse Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=the edge of Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fantastic food on the beach wonderful views. }} * {{eat | name=The Loaf | alt= | url=https://www.theloaf.asia/langkawi-cenang-plaza/ | email= | address=Lot No. C9 Perdana Quay | lat= | long= | directions=Telaga Harbour Park | phone=+60 4950 2101 | tollfree= | hours=F-W 8AM-11PM | price=Bread from RM4 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=Japanese-style bakery & bistro owned by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed, ex-Prime Minister of Malaysia. Quality breads and full meals. Amazing view of the harbour and the yachts especially if you have your breakfast al-fresco outside. Attentive staff. Try Tun's Favourite Breakfast set (2 softboiled eggs, a bowl of mutton curry and thick toasted bread) with coffee and orange juice. Good place to have a leisurely breakfast. }} * {{eat | name=Papadam Indian Cuisine | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang (near Underwater World) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Indian restaurant that also serves Arabic food. }} * {{eat | name=Sunsutra Restaurant | url= | email= | address=Jl Teluk Baru | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fine dining restaurant that serves great Western food too. If you're a big fan of lamb, you must try their lamb shank. Tender and full of flavours. Its portion is huge too! Good for someone who wants a hearty meal. }} * {{eat | name=Unkaizan Japanese Restaurant | alt= | url=https://unkaizan.com/ | email= | address=Lot395 Jl Telok Baru Pantai | lat=6.270453 | long=99.734014 | directions=Near to Awana Porto Malai | phone=+60 4 9554118 | tollfree= | hours=Th-Tu 6-11PM | price= | wikidata=Q115353038 | content=Japanese restaurant, with excellent food and wonderful service. }} == Drink == Because of Langkawi's tax-free status, alcohol is much cheaper than in the rest of Malaysia. Religious Muslims do not consume alcoholic drinks, and while they do tolerate non Muslims who do, try not to behave in a rowdy imbibed manner near them, their houses, mosques, and please respect local culture and communal sensitivities. For those living on a budget, you can obtain alcohol at cheap prices from the local duty-free shops: the larger the outlets, the lower the prices. Expect to pay RM35 for 1 L Absolut Vodka, RM37 for 1 L of Johnny Walker Red Label, RM45 for 1 L Kahlua, RM60 for 1 L Bailey's, and RM70 for 1 L Chivas Regal 12 years. Small cans of beer: RM2.30 for Tiger Beer 330 ml and RM1.80 for some cheap Dutch beer. Small quantities? 500 ml of some random gin per RM15. Some of those prices can be as cheap as a half of the price of the same product on the Duty Free Shop of the International Airport at Kuala Lumpur (KLIA). Despite low alcohol prices, Langkawi is predominantly popular with couples and families. Single travelers and backpackers may therefore be disappointed with the lack of nightlife. The liveliest part of the island is the part around Cenang. Most bars remain empty, particularly in the low season, and the 1-2 nightclubs may only seem worthwhile in the peak season, and even then only on Friday or Saturday nights. Overall, Langkawi provides a family-friendly alternative to Thai locations such as Phuket and Koh Samui. * {{drink | name=Bam-Boo-Ba | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/bamboobaloungebar/ | email= | address=SunBlock, Jalan Teluk Baru, Pantai Tengah | lat=6.2782965 | long=99.7330971 | directions=End of Sunba Block beach | phone= | tollfree= | hours=5PM-Late | price= | content=A covered open-air bar and lounge. Cool music, comfortable & relaxed place with beer on tap, shooters and great cocktails, a big projector screen for sports events and fiber-optic broadband. Happy Hours 5-9PM: draft Tiger/Heineken 5RM, House pouring spirits buy 1 free 1 10RM, cocktails buy 2 free 1 16RM-22RM. }} * {{drink | name=OMG Restaurant at Paradise 101 | alt= | url=https://www.paradise101.com/omg-restaurant/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Take a ferry | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=One of best and liveliest sports bars in Langkawi. On its own island; you will need to take the ferry here. Offers beach volleyball, kayaking, sunset cruises, parasailing, jet skis, and other activities. }} * {{drink | name=Raffi's Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=514695731948438 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang beach | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Beer: RM4 | content=Beach bar. }} * {{drink | name=Sunba Retro Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jalan Teluk Baru | lat=6.278679 | long=99.733097 | directions=Pantai Tengah; 15 minutes walk from Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 4 9531801 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM - 4AM | price= | wikidata=Q115353216 | content=Attracts a good crowd after midnight. House band and DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Yellow Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/yelllowbeachcafe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang beach | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Beer RM7 | content=Beach bar. }} '''Bars in Kuah''' (Aug 2024) Despite being the islands "capital", the town of Kuah has a lot less going for it than Cenang in terms of bars. The following are the best/only places for a drink: * Cappuccino House Bistro ( BAR & CAFE ) * Cellar Bank Langkawi * The Blarney Stone Langkawi * Bottle & Glass Garden Cafe == Sleep == === Budget === Both luxury and eccentric hostels are common on Langkawi. If you are looking for budget accommodation, your best bet would be to walk along the beach and adjacent road at Pantai Cenang. It is hard to find budget accommodation in other beaches in Langkawi, except Pantai Cenang and Kuah town. Prices there normally range from RM50 to RM150 per room per night, on or next to the beach. * {{sleep | name=Rainbow Lodge | url=https://rainbowlangkawi.yolasite.com/ | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Kampung Haji Maidin, Pentai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM18, for a single bed in a mixed dorm. | content=20 beds. Each bed has its own cubicle room with curtain and directional fan. An outstanding bargain but no aircon or hot water. }} * {{sleep | name=AB Motel | url=http://abmotel.blogspot.com/ | email=abmotel@hotmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 4 9551300 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM120, sleeps 4 | content=30 rooms }} * {{sleep | name=Cenang Beach Motel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Northern end of Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 4 955 1395 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM55-75 | content=Good value. Clean rooms with fan or air-con directly on the beach. }} * {{sleep | name=Chandek Kura Hotel | alt= | url=http:///chandek_kura_hotel_1891252 | email= | address= | lat=6.330587 | long=99.748857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM89-120 | wikidata=Q115257100 | content=Nice rooms, but must drive to beach. }} * {{sleep | name=Gecko Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.296845 | long=99.724185 | directions=northern end of Pantai Cenang. Take the small road across from Orkid Ria restaurant | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm: RM15; Fan rooms: RM45-50 (shared bath RM35) | wikidata=Q115257252 | content=Bar on site. Nice lobby &mdash; comfy couch, wi-fi access, Astro TV playing, aquarium and friendly cats. They also have a few monkeys around one tree. Computers with internet access in the nearby Swiss Inn. }} * {{sleep | name=GeoPark Hotel & Dormitory | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Part of the Oriental Village | phone=+60 4959 2300 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=Dorm beds RM23, rooms RM245-480 | content=30 rooms. WiFi access in lobby. Outdoor pool. }} * {{sleep | name=Melati Tanjung Motel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.294624 | long=99.72451 | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM120-180 | wikidata=Q115257398 | content=Managed by a local family. All rooms have air-conditioning. }} * {{sleep | name=The Palms Guest House | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Fan room RM55, Aircon room RM85. Peak season fan RM75, air-con RM95 | content=8 rooms with queen beds (no twin rooms). Attached bathrooms with hot and cold shower. Mini-fridge. Free WiFi. }} * {{sleep | name=Senari Bay Resort | alt= | url=https://senari-bay-resort.business.site | email=senaribay@yahoo.com | address= | lat=6.303731 | long=99.720164 | directions=near Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 17 469 39 77 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=air-con room RM150 | wikidata=Q115257560 | content=12 clean rooms with queen beds and twin rooms), run by a lovely local couple. Attached bathrooms with hot and cold shower. Mini-fridge, TV, Private Beach, Free WiFi, Motor Scooter Rental, Fishing/boating trips with the owner. If you are looking for somewhere quiet and comfortable to get away from it all, without breaking the bank, then Senari Bay Resort is a good option. 15 min walk from Pantai Cenang. }} * {{sleep | name=Bumi Langkawi Homestay | alt= | url=http://bumilangkawi.com/ | email=bumilangkawi@gmail.com | address=No.70,Taman Cenderawasih | lat=6.322416 | long=99.784516 | directions= | phone=+60 12 4752880, +60 19 7208708 | tollfree= | fax=+60 4 9559677 | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=RM350-450/day (vary during peak season) | wikidata=Q115257716 | content=15-min drive from jetty at Kuah. The homestay has 4 rooms, 2 bathrooms and kitchen complete with electric appliances such as TV with Astro, refrigerator, washing machine, and water heater. Air-con and fan and provides blankets and towels. This homestay is spacious and suitable for a large group vacation trip (max 15 person including children; additional charges will apply for extra blankets, towels and pillows). }} * {{sleep | name=Bougainvillea Holiday Homes | url=http://www.picturetrail.com/bougainvillea | email=bougainvillea.langkawi@gmail.com | address=Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=3 self-catering holiday homes for weekly or long term rental. Situated in a quiet location, near Underwater World. 2 fully furnished, 1-bedroom houses (houses 1 and 2 double bed + single bed or roll out sofa ) and one chalet/studio, (house 3 - double bed). Air-con, self-catering kitchen, fully furnished, clean and comfortable amenities & quality linen, cleaning products provided, good security, mosquito nets, smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Houses 1 and 2 have secluded and covered gardens. House 3 has covered seating area at front with table and chairs. Outside parking. Weekly rates (7 nights) from approx. RM1,200 and longer term prices are negotiable. }} * {{sleep | name=Rumours Guesthouse and Cafe | alt= | url=http://rumoursguesthouselangkawi.wordpress.com/ | email=awieahmad@yahoo.com | address=Jalan Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi Kedah Darul Aman | lat= | long= | directions=Opposite side of the road to Duty Free Mall Zon, and about 100m north. It is down a little road about 50-100m | phone=+60 4 9552632, +60 175600803 (Awie) | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Really nice little guesthouse. Chilled atmosphere and very reasonable prices. The rooms are basic and clean, only cold water but in this place that is fine. Free Wi-Fi and the lounge area is comfortable enough. They have dorms from RM15, rooms with shared bathrooms for RM40, rooms with attached bathrooms for RM60 and rooms with air-con and hot showers from RM80. }} * {{sleep | name=Eylizar Homestay Langkawi | alt= | url= | email=langkawihomestay490@gmail.com | address=No.490 Taman Nilam | lat=6.37872 | long=99.86864 | directions=Jalan Ayer Hangat | phone=+60 195640251 (Whatsapp) | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=RM150-250 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=More than 15 units, 10 units Serviced apartments with swimming pool in Kuah town, guest house and chalet with swimming pool as well. Car rentals and local tours can be arranged. Most of the home stay have 3 bedrooms and 2 bathroom, full kitchen with electric appliances such as TV with Astro, refrigerator, washing machine, Air con, ceiling fan, blankets, towel. The home stay and serviced Apartment is suitable for large family group vacation trip (max 15 persons including children) no charge for extra pillow and blankets. }} === Mid-range === * {{sleep | name=Awana Porto Malai | url=http://www.awana.com.my/en/apm/index.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Southern tip of Langkawi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM245-4,800 w/breakfast; up to 15% off for booking online | content=208 spacious rooms and suites offer panoramic views of the lagoon and nearby islands and equipped with modern amenities and facilities. Fun swimming pool with fountains and slide for kids. }} * {{sleep | name=Bayview Langkawi | alt= | url=http://www.bayviewhotels.com/langkawi/ | email=bayviewlangkawi@bayviewhotels.com | address= | lat=6.323057 | long=99.849156 | directions=Downtown Kuah | phone=+60 4 9661818 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM240-530 w/breakfast | wikidata=Q115264785 | content=High-rise hotel with 282 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Star Resort | alt= | url=http://www.beststarresort.com | email=info@beststarresort.com | address=Lot PT 892, Jalan Pantai Cenang | lat=6.291177 | long=99.72643 | directions=Pantai Cenang, next to AB Motel | phone=+60 4 9551808 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM180-270 | wikidata=Q115271890 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=Beach front resort. Clean, comfortable and friendly. Coffee Garden. Air-conditioned rooms. Somehow, the hotel room TV sets are not equipped with remote control. And, make sure you get a room with a beach view, otherwise it might not be worth staying. }} * {{sleep | name=Charlie Motel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone=+60 4 9551200 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM85-145 | content=Dialysis treatment also available }} * {{sleep | name=Citin Hotel Langkawi by Compass Hospitality | url=http://www.citinlangkawi.com/ | email=enquiry@citinlangkawi.com | address=No. 3, Jl Pekan | lat=6.324567 | long=99.846124 | directions=in Kuah town | phone=+60 3 966 9000 | tollfree= | fax=+60 3 966 9001 | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM90 | content=Renovated, 46 cozy rooms, clean, air-con, 22" LCD flat screen TV, ensuite bathroom. There is a cafe which provides a decent breakfast and the lobby is with WiFi. The friendly staff are well informed about the island. }} * {{sleep | name=CoCoTop Hotel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Kelibang Kuah Langkawi, 5-10 min to town and jetty. | phone=+60 4 9672559 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Ranging from RM70-100 or approximately US$25-$40 | content=Quiet, Clean, air-con, friendly Environment with a hint of bakery fragrant every morning from a local owned bakery, 30 room hotel with, attached bathroom (hot and cold shower) and two single beds and TV. }} * {{sleep | name=Eaglebay Hotel Langkawi | alt= | url=https://www.eaglebay.com.my | email=info@eaglebay.com.my | address=No. 33 Persiaran Putera, Kuah | lat=6.315637 | long=99.854572 | directions= | phone=+60 4 9668585,+60 19 4499880 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=from RM150-240 | wikidata=Q115281568 | lastedit=2022-11-19 | content=132 rooms with air-con. The hotel's Central Park Restaurant has Malay, Chinese and Western cuisine. }} * {{sleep | name=Helang Hotel | alt= | url= | email=hotelhelang@po.jaring.my | address=Jalan Lima | lat= | long= | directions=located on airport grounds | phone=+60 4 9553030 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM155 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=232 spacious rooms. Airport accommodation. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Villa Resort | url=http://www.holidayvillalangkawi.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= RM300-1,400 | content=2 swimming pools, 3 tennis courts. 258 sea-facing guest-rooms and luxurious suites TV, in-house movies, air-con, fridge, mini bar, in-room coffee/tea-making facilities and in-room safe deposit box. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Langkasuka Langkawi | alt=Langkasuka Hotel | url=http://www.hotellangkasuka.com | email=inquiries@hotellangkasuka.com | address=Batu 3/4, A-14-15 Pokok Asam | lat= | long= | directions=in Kuah, 20 min from Langkawi International Airport and 10 min from Kuah Jetty | phone=+60 4 9666828 | tollfree= | fax=+60 4 9661371 | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM125 w/breakfast; year round discounts if booked online | content=168 spacious rooms and suites. All rooms with air-con, heated showers and mini refrigerator. }} * {{sleep | name=Kampung Tok Senik Resort | url=http://www.toksenikresort.com/ | email= | address=Lot 1577, Kawasan Mata Air, Mukim Ulu Melaka | lat= | long= | directions=Along the road to Ulu Melaka | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM150-350 + tax | content=Full facility resort. No beaches here but a truly green surrounding. }} * {{sleep | name=Kondo Istana Langkawi | url= | email= | address=Lot 575, Jalan Penarak, Kampung Padang Lalang, Mukin Kuah | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 9661118 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM125 | content=15 budget rooms, all of which have air-con, cableTV, and refrigerator. Fitness room/gym, internet, and room service. }} * {{sleep | name=Langkawi Seaview Hotel | url=http://www.lseaview.com/ | email=sales@lseaview.com | address=Langkawi Seaview Hotel | lat= | long= | directions=Kuah | phone=+60 4 9660600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=143 rooms. WiFi. }} * {{sleep | name=Mutiara Burau Bay | url=http://www.langkawi-resorts.com/burau/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM270-1,700 | content=Sprawling resort the tropical rainforest. 4 restaurants and 150 cabanas. There's a long stretch of beach and plenty of space for you to stake your own private spot if you don't mind swimming in the sewage outfall. The Seashell Beach and Cafe is a nice little place you can while away the evening with a couple of drinks and a pretty good live band. Go early to get a table as it can fill up pretty quickly after dinner. }} * {{sleep | name=Sandy Beach Resort | alt= | url=https://sandybeachresort.maktiranahotel.com/ | email= | address=Jalan Pantai Cenang | lat=6.2926 | long=99.72573 | directions= | phone=+60 4 9551308 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q115298770 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=Rather sprawling... straddling both sides of Pantai Cenang road. The beach-facing rooms are most popular. The beachside BBQ is great. }} * {{sleep | name=Shirin Villa | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM150 w/breakfast | content=3 bedrooms (2 air-cond + 1 fan). For 6 people, suitable for couple, friends &amp family gathering. Fully furnished, AstroTV, Kitchen, fridge. }} * {{sleep | name=Tropical Resort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.280477 | long=99.731735 | directions=Pantai Tengah, opposite Sun Café | phone=+60 4 9554075 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM80 | wikidata=Q115298965 | content=Quiet and clean chalets. Owned by Musa and his German wife, Laila. Rooms come with fan or air-con, attached bathroom (hot and cold shower) and two single beds and TV. Short walk from the beach, convenience shops, Malay style eateries, car rentals, stylish cafés, spa. Long term stays at discounted rates are available. No alcohol is permitted. }} * {{sleep | name=Azio Hotel | url=http://aziohotel.com/ | email=info@aziohotel.com | address=1-19 Jalan Pandak Maya 7 | lat= | long= | directions=Located in Kuah, 20 min from Langkawi International Airport and 10 min from Kuah Jetty | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM95-125 w/o breakfast | content= Rooms with LCD TV, air-con, WiFi, heated showers, hair drier but no refrigerator. Clean. }} === Splurge === * {{sleep | name=The Andaman | url=http://www.luxurycollection.com/andaman | email=theandaman@luxurycollection.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 9591088 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM690 | content=Built in the middle of virgin tropical rainforest, between the Mat Cincang mountain range and the Andaman Sea. Centuries-old trees, many with huge buttress roots and jungle creepers envelope the resort. 186 rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Berjaya Langkawi Resort | alt= | url=http://www.berjayahotel.com/langkawi/ | email=langkawi.rsvn@berjayahotel.com | address=Karong Berkunci 200, Burau Bay | lat=6.36675 | long=99.66726 | directions=5 min walk to the Cable Car station at the Oriental Village | phone=+60 4 959 1888 | tollfree=+1 800 88 3236 (Malaysia only) | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Biggest hotel on the island, with 424 rooms and suites. There are 9 F&B outlets including the Sunken Pool Bar and Boat House Bar. Nature walks with a qualified guide are provided free of charge to guests. Beach football, kiddie pool, watersports. This resort has abundant wildlife, some unique to the island. }} * {{sleep | name=Bon Ton | url=http://www.bontonresort.com.my/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM490-1,190 | content=One of the island's most stylish and intimate resorts. 8 individually styled antique Malay villas. Nam Restaurant at Bon Ton is regarded as one of the best on the island. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa del Mar | alt=Pantai Cenang | url=http://www.casadelmar-langkawi.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=RM980 | content=Boutique resort with 34 sea-facing rooms. Day spa, gymnasium, non-motorised watersports facilities. Restaurant & cocktail bar on the beach. Suitable for couples and adults. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Century Langkawi Beach Resort | alt=formerly Sheraton | url= | email= | address=Teluk Nibong | lat=6.360652 | long=99.707615 | directions=2 miles south of telaga harbour | phone=+60 4 9528000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM500 | content=In 38 acres of spacious, lush tropical surroundings with private beach coves. }} * {{sleep | name=Century Suria Suites | alt= | url=http://www.anytimeholidays.com.my/ | email= | address=Jalan Taman Pelangi | lat=6.32682 | long=99.83495 | directions= | phone=+60 124087327 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=3-star serviced apartment hotel just outside of Kuah. }} * {{sleep | name=The Danna Langkawi | url=http://www.thedanna.com | email=sales@thedanna.com | address=Telaga Harbour Park, Pantai Kok | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 959 3288 | tollfree= | fax=+60 4 959 3188 | checkin= | checkout=noon | price=From RM1,250 | content=5-star resort of 125 rooms and suites, opened in December 2010. Constructed in British Colonial style. 5 levels with big, richly decorated rooms. Gymnasium, business centre, child care centre, billiards room and spa. Outside, a three tiered infinity pool overlooks a private beach, bordered by lounges. }} * {{sleep | name=Four Seasons Resort | url=http://www.fourseasons.com/langkawi/ | email= | address=Jl Tanjung Rhu | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 950 8888 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM1,850, 4th night is free | content=Middle Eastern influenced resort set on the beautiful Tanjung Rhu beach. Probably the best place to spot a billionaire on the island. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa | url=http://www.holidayvillahotellangkawi.com/index.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM420, promotional rate: RM525 and up for 2 nights | content=4-star 258-room picturesque resort covering 13 acres of land. Large swimming pool with open air jacuzzi, an indoor pool for ladies and the Amoras spa. }} * {{sleep | name=Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa | url=http://www.meritushotels.com/meritus-pelangi-beach-resort-spa-langkawi/index.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM2070 plus 10% service charge | lastedit=2017-08-06 | content=350 rooms are spread over 51 clusters of elegant wooden chalets offering pool, sea or lake views. The Meritus offers seven F&B outlets including two pool bars and the excellent Niyom Thai Restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Rebak Island Resort - Vivanta by Taj Langkawi | alt= | url=http://www.rebakislandresort.com/ | email=rmresv.malaysia@tajhotels.com | address=Pulau Rebak Besar | lat=6.294380 | long=99.700363 | directions=On privately-owned {{acre|390}} Rebak Besar Island, a 15-min ferry ride from Port Langkasuka jetty | phone=+60 4966 5566 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM525 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=94 rooms. Managed by India's Taj Group of Hotels. It consists of clusters of timber chalets. The hotel has the only fully equipped marina in Malaysia. }} * {{sleep | name=Sang Ria | url=http://www.purveyorofdreams.com | email= | address=Jl Tasik Anak | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A tastefully designed beach villa in a contemporary Asian style. Their breakfast is delicious but must be booked in advance. Near great restaurants, bars and cafes. }} * {{sleep | name=Tanjung Rhu Resort | url=http://www.tanjungrhu.com.my | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Standard rooms from RM1,400/night | content=A resort on what most people consider to be the best beach on the island. It has been built to minimize any environmental damage and to blend in well with its surroundings. 60 m pool, abundant gardens, restaurants, very well maintained. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/lgkwi-the-westin-langkawi-resort-and-spa/ | email= | address=Jalan Pantai Dato Syed Omar, Kedah | lat=6.3001123 | long=99.8532113 | directions= | phone=+60 4-960 8888 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM700 | content=202 rooms and 400 villas }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Temple Tree Resort Langkawi Malaysia | alt= | url=https://www.templetree.com.my/ | email=enquiries@templetree.com.my | address=Lot 1053, Jalan Pantai Chenang, Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 17-599 5935 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Consists of 25 heritage houses. }} ==Connect== === Telephone === Mobile phone coverage is very good in all built up areas of Langkawi. Many affordable pre-paid phone and data plans are available. Recharge cards are readily available except for the very cheap TuneTalk which is harder to find and SIM cards almost non existent. It is best to buy this back in LLCT where no commission is charged on the SIM. Full reception and reasonable data speeds can be achieved on the beach and inside the resorts on Pantai Cenang and Pantai Tengah. === Post === The main post office in located in Kuah Town. Mini post offices can be found in Padang Mat Sirat. There is no post office in Pantai Cenang, but you can buy stamps and send postcards in T Shoppe on the main road. Courier service, Poslaju shop can be found at Taman Berlian, Kuah. === Internet === Broadband is available and some Internet cafés can be found along Pantai Tengah, Pantai Cenang and Kuah. In addition, many of the upscale hotels, resorts, and restaurants provide free WiFi. == Stay healthy == The biggest health risk on Langkawi is from jellyfish stings, especially during January - June season. Uninformed visitors are stung every day and the lifeguards on Pantai Cenang and the hospital treat more or less severe cases of jellyfish stings most days. There are several species of jellyfish in Langkawi's waters, while most will give you a nasty sting or a burn, there are some that will cause partial paralysis or even kill, in case of the lethal box jellyfish. If you have been stung badly, don't exert yourself physically as this will pump the toxins around the bloodstream and aggravate the symptoms. Vinegar is the only scientifically proven treatment for tropical jellyfish stings, apply it for 30 seconds to block toxin which has not yet been absorbed into the blood. To stay safe, swim only in stinger suit. Langkawi can have a lot of '''mosquitoes''' depending on the time of year and location (i.e. Mangrove areas), so don't forget to use mosquito repellent. "Off" spray and various citronella or DEET based products are available in most supermarkets. Average temperatures are hot or hotter; it's the tropics. Be sure to stay '''hydrated'''. You will need to drink about 3 litres a day and don't wait till you are thirsty to drink. Room temperature water preferably. De-hydration accounts for a large percentage of dodgy tummy holiday illnesses. See also [[Tropical diseases]]. ==Stay safe== Speedboats can often bounce off the waves at very high speeds and passengers can get quite strong jolts into the non-sprung seats, so persons with back or neck problems should not travel on the speedboats, but on the ferry. There have been reports of serious back injuries happening on the speedboats. They are also known as 'vomit comets' due to the number of people succumbing to sea sickness. Bring lots of water and be prepared for a bumpy ride! Also be very careful while swimming. At times, tides and currents can be very aggressive and not easy to spot. Be careful driving around Langkawi at night. Although main roads are well-lit, some of the more minor roads are not very well lit and may pass through Kampungs (traditional Malay villages) or rural areas where the locals seem to take a very casual approach to '''road safety'''. Drive slow and watch out for erratically piloted motorbikes, pedestrians and livestock. Inside Kuah Town, watch out for errors in the road arrows - they may lead you into wrong lanes or into barricades. at night, watch out for water buffalo sleeping in the road. '''Crime''' is generally not a problem on Langkawi, especially compared to the larger cities in Malaysia. In theory, you don't even have to lock your car, because it cannot get off the island without customs knowing about it! Beware of '''smart wild monkeys'''. Those at Tengkorak beach attack humans who have food. If attacked, pick up stones (or just pretend to do so) and throw them at the monkeys, this will scare them away. Also, do not carry plastic bags as the monkeys associate these with food. Don't let them get too close to you or they will steal your glasses. Please read up on rip tides before you go; learn to recognise and to avoid them. == Respect == Langkawi is a Geopark but still needs to improve its environmental friendliness. Don't participate in certain activities such as eagle feeding and monkey feeding as this harms the animals by encouraging them to become reliant on tourists and you may give them the wrong food. ==Go next== * [[Ko Lipe]] &mdash; Great diving and snorkeling at the only inhabited island in Tarutao National Marine Park, a short speedboat ride (1½ hr) away on the Thai side of the border. * [[Ko Tarutao]] &mdash; Another island in Tarutao National Marine Park, however does not suffer from the rapid development issues faced by Ko Lipe. * [[Penang]] {{geo|6.53|99.8|zoom=10}} {{isPartOf|Kedah}} {{usablecity}} opc3cjk8zowxjum9u8s64chljdr13c9 5091202 5091189 2025-07-11T05:44:21Z Tryptamine dreamer 570692 /* Get in */ advice on how to get to the ferries efficiently and economically 5091202 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Langkawi banner Sky Bridge.jpg}} [[File:Langkawi Malaysia (26).JPG|thumb|right|240px|Sun, sand and sea on the beach]] [[Image:Sunrise over Pantai Cenang.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Sunrise over Langkawi]] '''[https://pbt.kedah.gov.my/index.php/majlis-perbandaran-langkawi-bandaraya-pelancongan/ Langkawi]''' (Jawi: لانكاوي), officially known as "Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah" ([[Malay phrasebook|Malay]]: ''Langkawi Permata Kedah'') is an archipelago of 99 islands (an extra 5 temporary islands are revealed at low tide) in the Andaman Sea, 30 km off the mainland coast of [[Kedah]]. It is a popular destination due to its natural white sand beaches, lush jungle foliage, craggy mountain peaks and duty-free status, where alcohol is affordable. ==Understand== ===Politics and demographics=== The islands are a part of the state of [[Kedah]], adjacent to the border with [[Thailand]]. The total population of the islands is 99,000; however only two islands are inhabited: Pulau Langkawi, the largest island, with a population of 65,000 and Pulau Tuba. Langkawi is also an administrative district, with the town of Kuah as the capital and largest town. ===Etymology=== {{infobox|Legends of broken pots and seeping gravy|Langkawi's most prominent mountains, Gunung Macinchang and Gunung Raya, and a whole series of towns and villages are said to be named after a local legend. During the wedding feast of the marriage of giant Mat Raya's son and giant Mat Cincang's daughter, a fight broke out between the two wedding parties, reputedly because the son was caught flirting with another woman. Pots and pans were thrown, and a large pot of gravy (''kuah'') was broken and the contents flowed onto the ground. The place where the gravy was spilled became known as Kuah (the largest town on Langkawi island) and where the crockery (''belanga'') was broken (''pecah'') was the location of the village Kampung Belanga Pecah. The gravy seeped into (''kisap'') the earth at the village named Kisap.}} The name "Langkawi" has two possible origins. First, it is believed to be related to the kingdom of Langkasuka, itself a version of the [[Malay phrasebook|Malay]] ''negari alang-kah suka'' ("the land of all one's wishes"), centered in modern-day [[Kedah]]. The historical record is sparse, but a Chinese Liang Dynasty record (c. 500 AD) refers to the kingdom of "Langgasu" as being founded in the 1st century AD. Second, it could be a combination of the Malay words 'helang', meaning "eagle" and 'kawi', meaning "reddish-brown" or "strong", in old Malay. ===History=== Langkawi was long under the influence of the Kedah Sultanate, founded in 1136 AD upon the introduction of Islam. Kedah, including Langkawi, was conquered in 1821 by the State of Siam (now [[Thailand]]). During the invasion by the Siamese, the leaders were killed, many islanders were taken as slaves, and most of the population fled. In the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909, the Siamese ceded control of the island to the British, who held the state until Malaysian independence in 1957, except for a brief period of Thai rule under the Japanese occupation of Malaya during World War II. Thai influences remain visible in the culture and food of Langkawi. Langkawi remained a sleepy backwater island until 1987, when the island was granted tax-free status with the intention of promoting tourism to improve the lives of the islanders. ===Climate=== Sheltered by the mountainous backbone of [[Peninsular Malaysia]], Langkawi is not affected by the northeastern winter monsoon and enjoys sunny skies in winter when the eastern provinces are flooded. ===Preservation=== The 10,000 hectares of Langkawi and its 99 islands were declared a geopark by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 2007. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{go | name=Langkawi International Airport | alt={{IATA|LGK}} | url=https://airports.malaysiaairports.com.my/langkawi | email= | address= | lat=6.329722 | long=99.728611 | directions=at Padang Matsirat, on the northwestern part of the island | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Langkawi International Airport | image=Langkawi airport.png | wikidata=Q1431863 | content=There are direct flights to [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Singapore]], [[Penang]], and [[Johor Bahru]]. There are no air-bridges, so in the event of rain, the airline will supply umbrellas for the walk to the plane. }} ===By boat=== * '''Langkawi Ferry Line''' operates fast air-con ferries from [[Kuala Perlis]] (RM35 foreigners, 60 min, 6-8 trips each way daily between 7am and 6pm) and [[Kuala Kedah]] (RM45 foreigners, 105 min, same or slightly higher frequency) (the ferry is freezing cold, so bring warm clothes). '''Langkawi Andaman Ferry''' operates a similar ferry daily to [[Satun]] (RM55 / 450 baht, 75 min, departure time is 9:30am from Langkawi, 11:30am (Thai time) from Tammalang pier just near Satun). As of 2025, the tickets can be purchased online through '''[https://www.cuticutilangkawi.com/hcjSystem/modules/Ccl/travel Cuti Cuti Langkawi]''' website or in their app, along with numerous activities in Langkawi. * '''Tropical Charters''' [https://tropicalcharters.com.my/] operates ferries between Kuah Jetty in Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]]. The price is RM118 one way (RM100 if you book online), including the longtail boat transfer and Thai customs fees. Check-in is at the inner entrance of the Jetty Point Food Court, opposite 7/11, 1 hour before departure. The trip takes 90 minutes. Arrival in Ko Lipe is at the Bundhaya Resort. * '''[https://telaga-terminal.com/ Telaga Terminal]''' operates speedboats between Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]] (RM128 1-way, RM248 return, 75 min). These boats dock at a pontoon in Pattaya Bay from where there are longtail transfers to immigration on Pattaya Beach. * '''[https://www.tigerlinetravel.com Tigerline Ferry]''' operates between Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]]. * '''[https://www.spcthailand.com Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club Company]''' operates between Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]]. * '''[https://www.bundhayaspeedboat.com Bundhaya Speed Boat]''' operates between Langkawi and [[Ko Lipe]]. Choose the Ferry (not Speedboat) tab on their website. To get to the public ferries overland, if you are coming from [[Alor Setar]], [[Penang]] or anywhere further south in [[Malaysia]], '''Kuala Kedah''' is less than 10 kilometers from [[Alor Setar]] and it's railway station. If you are coming from [[Thailand]] by train (also it's the most convenient budget-friendly route from/to [[Hat Yai]]), you can take the Malaysian Komuter train from [[Padang Besar]] border station, where Thai trains arrive, to [[Arau]] (two stops, 20 minutes, RM3.20, ticket can be paid by credit card at the station), then travel 15 km by Grab (~RM15-18), taxi (flat rate RM26) or bus (cheaper, but very infrequent and with a transfer in [[Kangar]]) through some very beautiful countryside to '''Kuala Perlis'''. The route via [[Satun]] can be convenient if you are traveling by bus along Thailand's Andaman coast and/or to the islands there. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|6.37|99.78|zoom=11}}{{mapshape|wikidata=Q273303}} There is effectively no public transport on the island, so your choices are to use taxis or to rent a car, motorbike/scooter, or bicycle. ===By taxi=== Taxis and the Grab mobile app operate on a fixed price system. A taxi from the airport to Pantai Cenang costs RM20 or less with Grab. You can buy a coupon at the taxi desk at the airport. From the ferry terminal to Pantai Cenang, the price is RM24. For those arriving at the Kuah Jetty and going into Kuah Town, the price is RM8. ===By car or motorbike/scooter=== Renting a car or motorbike/scooter is highly recommended due to the lack of public transport. This can be done at the airport, the port complex, or from shops on Pantai Cenang. Refrain from renting from touts, as many are operating illegally without permits and usually without insurance. Accidents happen to tourists on motorbikes/scooters regularly, so be careful although the traffic is not as chaotic as in Penang and other areas. The roads are in good condition. Most rental agencies will not provide full insurance coverage and you have to cover the damage up to RM3000 if there is any accident. Renting an air-conditioned mid-sized sedan costs RM70-RM150 per day depending on model, condition and length of stay and a 150cc motorbike/scooter costs RM40-45 per day. Cheaper but usually very used and older are the semi-automatic 115cc bikes for RM25 a day. A tired Proton within Pantai Cenang costs RM60-90/day. Check your fuel level regularly because petrol pump stations (gas stations) are far from one another. Most rental agencies do not care how much fuel is in the tank when the vehicle is returned, although some may do so and mark it on the receipt. Fuel costs are cheap and are fixed by the government and you should return the bikes with the same filling level as you picked it up. The first time at a gas/petrol station will confuse you. You will need to guess how much fuel you need and pay first. Most saloon cars, if empty, are RM50 to fill up and motorbikes are approximately RM5. Sometimes you fill up your car/bike and you haven't used what you have paid for; not to worry, as you can claim this back at the counter. Remember to drive safely and slowly on the island and on the left side of the road. There are tourists, children and animals like chickens, cows and even buffaloes crossing. Take care not to run over the beautiful snakes or monitors. Cattle and snakes like to lie on the road at night; the blacktop radiates heat. Driving laws: # Your driver's licence needs to be with you at all times. An international driver's licence is not necessary but licences must have text in English. # Seat belts are mandatory in all vehicles. Fines are given ranging from RM50 if not wearing one. # Helmets are mandatory. Fines are the same as above but more importantly, the hospital does not have facilities to treat head injuries, so you will have to get a medivac out to Penang, which takes 45 minutes or more — if the helicopter is available. Roadblocks are commonplace in Langkawi; they are mainly interested in locals with no licence. Make sure you have the above items and your seat belt fastened, and you will have no problems. ===By bicycle=== Some hotels offer bicycle rentals. Expect to pay between RM10-30 per day. ==See== * {{see | name=Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls aka Seven Wells | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.3817650 | long=99.6728860 | directions=Gunung Mat Cincang, Northwest corner of the island, 45 km from Kuah, walking distance from Oriental village and cable car (10 min) | phone=+60 4 9667789 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Langkawi Malaysia Seven-wells-05.jpg | content=This waterfall is named after the seven natural pools along its path. Legend has it that fairies used to come down to the pools to bathe and frolic. There are 2 viewing areas at Telaga Tujuh. The lower area is at the base of the waterfall and the higher area is where the 7 pools are. You can bathe in the pools and even slide down the slick rock between them. To get to the 7 pools, you must climb 638 steps which can be quite slippery when wet. As with most Malaysian tourist sites, the toilet facilities are not maintained and rubbish is strewn everywhere. There is also a jungle trekking course available at the site which will lead you through a trail of about 2,500m, up 2 mountains. This trail is achievable with slippers, but it is best to wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots as some segments of the trail are nearly vertical. These trails are not recommended for family trips. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Gunung Raya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.36890 | long=99.81852 | directions=take the snaking paved road through the jungle | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The tallest mountain on the island, at 881m, in a rainforest habitat. The peak can be reached via a 25-minute drive on a canopy-covered road lined with leafy pandan and banana trees or by climbing 4,287 steep stairs, estimated to take 2 hours 15 minutes each way. The stairs may be covered in fallen trees or landslides after rainfall. The summit offers a panoramic view over Langkawi and surrounding islands in the Andaman Sea, although the view is often obstructed by fog – make sure to visit on a clear day. Wildlife includes monkeys, squirrels, hornbills, lizards, and geckos. There is also an abandoned resort at the summit that has fallen into disrepair. }} * {{see | name=Crocodile Adventureland | alt= | url=http://www.porosus.com/croc/ | email= | address=Jalan Datai, Mk. Ayer Hangat | lat=6.4023432 | long=99.7123030 | directions=on the way to Teluk Datai | phone=+60 4 9592559 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 9AM-6PM, show time: daily at 11:15AM & 2:45PM, hourly feedings | price=Adult RM25, child RM18 (below 12 yrs), Malaysian: RM18/12 | content=Over 1,000 crocodiles and alligators. Witness a boxing match of man vs crocodile, or take a ride in a rickshaw drawn by a crocodile. this attraction will not be enjoyed by some visitors, the crocodiles are inbred and deformed. }} * {{see | name=Laman Padi Rice Garden | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/lamanpadilangkawiofficial/ | email= | address= | lat=6.29861 | long=99.72248 | directions=northern end of Pantai Cenang, opposite Casa Del Mar Hotel | phone=+60 4 955 4312 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10AM-6PM | price=Free | content=Rice fields and nice landscaping. Museum in English details the process of cultivating rice. Guided tours are available. }} * {{see | name=Taman Lagenda | alt=Legenda Park | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.311141 | long=99.854548 | directions=400 m from Kuah Jetty beside the CHOGM Park and Al-Hana Mosque. | phone=+60 4 9664223 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8AM-11PM | price=Adults RM5, children RM2.50 | image=Legend Park Langkawi - path along the seaside.JPG | content=Beautiful garden on {{acre|50}}, designed based on Langkawi heritage. }} [[Image:Entrance to Underwater World, Langkawi.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Underwater World]] * {{see | name=Underwater World | alt= | url=https://www.underwaterworldlangkawi.com/ | email= | address= | lat=6.28799 | long=99.7289 | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 4 9556100 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9:30AM-6:30PM, Sa Su 9:30AM-8:30PM | price=RM53 for adults and RM43 for children | image=Entrance to Underwater World, Langkawi.jpg | content=An indoor aquarium. Try to attend the feeding times. }} * {{see | name=Eagle Square | alt=Dataran Lang | url=https://naturallylangkawi.my/ | email= | address= | lat=6.30884 | long=99.85143 | directions= | phone=+60 4960 0600 | tollfree= | hours=24 hours | price=Free | image=Langkawi eagle.jpg | wikidata=Q48769617 | content=The square, featuring a giant eagle statue, is beautifully landscaped with scenic ponds, bridges and covered terraces and is especially beautiful when illuminated at night. }} * {{see | name=Oriental Village | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.371 | long=99.6721 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8:30AM-6PM | price= | image=Oriental Village in Langkawi.JPG | content=Asian-themed village featuring restaurants, an exotic snake charmer, jugglers, silat displays, traditional music, kite flying demonstrations, palmistry, portrait painting and ZON free duty shop. A miserable elephant is forced to offer rides to tourists. A cable car up the mountain costs $20. Some describe this place as a tacky tourist trap. Rent a Segway to scoot around. }} * {{see | name=Langkawi Wildlife Park | alt=Taman Hidupan Liar | url=https://langkawiwildlifepark.com/ | email= | address=Jalan Ayer Hangat | lat=6.38729 | long=99.86188 | directions= | phone=+60 4966 5855 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 8:30AM-6PM | price=RM16–39 | content=A zoo with many wild animals. }} * {{see | name=Galeria Perdana | alt= | url=http://www.jmm.gov.my/en/museum/galeria-perdana | email= | address=Jalan Ayer Hangat | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 959 1498 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10AM-5PM | price=RM10 | content=Museum featuring gifts Malaysia has received from foreign countries. }} * ==Do== Organized activities in Langkawi include cruises via [[yacht]] or [[sailboat]], mangrove tours, island hopping tours, jet ski tours, [[birdwatching]] tours, nature walks, [[kayaking|kayak tours]], [[scuba diving]] & [[snorkelling]], helicopter tours, and jungle trekking tours. [[File:Langkawi Malaysia Langkawi-Sky-Bridge-01.jpg|thumb|Sky Bridge]] * {{do | name=Panorama Langkawi: SkyCab Cable Car Ride & Sky Bridge | alt= | url=https://panoramalangkawi.com/skybridge/ | email=info@panoramalangkawi.com | address= | lat=6.386442 | long=99.662406 | directions=in Oriental village, close to Pantai Kok | phone=+60 4 959 4225 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 9:30AM-7PM | price=Cable car+Skybridge RM43 Adult, RM33 child (Malaysians) RM85 adult, RM65 child for foreigners | wikipedia=Langkawi Sky Bridge | image=Langkawi cablecar bridge.jpg | wikidata=Q1164611 | content=Ride the cable car to the top of the jungle-clad Mt. Machincang and walk across the 700m high Sky Bridge for a spectacular view of the islands and Thailand. During peak times you may have to queue for up to 2 hours. At 125 m long, it is the world’s longest curved suspension bridge. Opened in 2003. The SkyBridge is at the top station of the cable car which can be reached using an elevator/cabin on a track (SkyGlide, RM15 for foreigners) or through a small forest trail (RM5 for foreigners), the trail is only around a 10-minute walk but involves a lot of stairs. The first cable car drop point (the mountain furthest east) can be walked to as well. You follow a path that takes you under the cable cars. Includes a very steep section which is spectacular both going up and coming down. Doesn't operate in bad weather. Also, it doesn't run during the regular maintenance days, check before you go. Officially you are not allowed to take food and drink on the cable car, but they seem not to be checking backpacks (when unlucky and all your water is taken by the security, you can buy one at the top). If they are not operating, or you are really into hiking, you can trek partway up the mountain through the jungle. To do this, from the parking lot at Telagah Tujuh Waterfalls go left just before the road goes really uphill and then turn left again at the water reservoir. The trek is very steep most of the way and in a pretty bad condition because the contractors laying down the piping for cables littered garbage all the way to the top. Only attempt this if you are fit and have good hiking boots. Temperatures at the top of the mountain are 4-5 ⁰C lower than at sea level. }} * {{do | name=Morac Adventure Park - Go-Karting | alt= | url=https://moracadventurepark.com/ | email= | address=Lot67, Jl Pantai Cenang | lat=6.316402 | long=99.724469 | directions= | phone=+60 4 955 5827, +60 4 955 5792 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=RM75 per session | image=Langkawi Go Kart.jpg | content=Morac International Karting features a 1,000-m track. }} * {{do | name=Golf at The Els Club Teluk Datai | alt= | url=https://www.thedatai.com/experiences/golf/ | email= | address= | lat=6.4263 | long=99.6859 | directions=Northern part of the island | phone=+60 4 959 2620 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=RM400 for 18 holes or RM300 for 9 holes | content=There is a world-class, 18-hole golf course designed by Ernie Els near the Datai resort. }} ===Beaches=== * {{do | name=Pantai Cenang | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.29576 | long=99.72239 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Langkawi Pantai Cenang 2.JPG | wikidata=Q33328099 | content=The most popular beach in Langkawi, features fine powdery sand and many beachfront restaurants and bars. Located at the south-western tip of the island, 2 km long. }} * {{do | name=Pantai Tengah | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.2817 | long=99.7294 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Jalan Pantai Tengah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia - panoramio - jetsun.jpg | content=Located just south of and contiguously with Pantai Cenang. 1 km long. Means ‘Middle Beach’. Peaceful and tranquil alternative to the hustle and bustle of Pantai Cenang. All-inclusive resorts are popular with families. }} * {{do | name=Pantai Kok | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.3665 | long=99.6796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Langkawi Malaysia Pantai-Kok-Lighthouse-01.jpg | content=Isolated, relatively undisturbed stretch of beach in the western part of Langkawi Island, 12 km north of Pantai Cenang. Telaga Harbour, and the cable car ride to the peak of Mat Cincang Mountain and the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls are located here. }} * {{do | name=Tanjung Rhu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.45747 | long=99.82444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7446891 | content=Northernmost tip of the island. Centuries-old limestone caves, mangroves, waterways, limestone crags and sandy beaches make it a nature lover's paradise. This beach is made up of 2 long stretches that includes Tanjong Rhu Resort and Four Seasons, half of the Tanjung Rhu beach belongs to these resorts, and guards don't allow you to trespass the limits of their beach. }} * {{do | name=Datai Bay Beach | alt= | url=http://www.thedatai.com/langkawi/ | email= | address= | lat=6.42804 | long=99.67375 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The most expensive resorts are located here. }} * {{do | name=Burau Bay | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.36477 | long=99.66928 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Beach lined with rocky outcrops located on the West Coast of Langkawi. Nearby Burau island is also a roosting place for migratory birds. }} * {{do | name=Pantai Pasir Hitam | alt=Black Sand Beach | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.42775 | long=99.79493 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Langkawi Malaysia Fisherboat-at-Pantai-Pasir-Hitam-01.jpg | content=The sand is mixed in white and black shades, due to rich tin and iron ore deposits. }} * {{do | name=Pantai Pasir Tengkorak | alt=Skull Beach | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.43065 | long=99.7265 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Very beautiful small beach in the north of the island. The beach got its name from skulls which were washed ashore in the 1940s. Prisoners and wardens from the nearby Thai island Ko Tarutao became pirates, throwing the bodies of those they had killed into the sea. }} ==Buy== ATMs and money exchange booths are available at the Langkawi Airport, at Langkawi Parade Shopping Complex, next to Underwater World at Pantai Cenang and at Cenang Mall. Langkawi is a duty-free island, and alcohol is significantly cheaper here than in the rest of Malaysia. Hotel tariffs and retail goods are exempt from government duty. Visitors with more than 48 hr stay in Langkawi are exempt on items like wines and liquor (1 liter), tobacco (200 cigarettes), apparel, cosmetics, souvenirs and gifts, food and food preparations and portable electronic items (one item). Shop around before buying: the airport is probably the most expensive place to buy anything. Shop in Kuah town for batik, tobacco products and chocolate confectioneries. * {{buy | name=Langkawi Parade Megamall | alt=Langkawi Parade Shopping Complex | url=https://www.langkawi-parade.com/about.html | email= | address=A-14-15 Pokok Asam, Kuah | lat=6.327202 | long=99.838388 | directions=In Kuah, 10 min ride from the Kuah Jetty | phone=+60 4 9667528 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-10PM | price= | wikidata=Q115370791 | content=One of the largest duty-free shopping complexes in Langkawi. A one-stop shopping location for wines & liquors, chocolates, local souvenirs, clothing & beachwear, luggage, home decor, electronics and other products. Grocery store on bottom level offering fresh and frozen foods. }} * {{buy | name=The Zon Duty-Free Shopping Complex | alt= | url=http://www.zon.com.my | email= | address= | lat=6.287125 | long=99.729363 | directions=Pantai Cenang, next to Underwater World | phone=+60 4 9555300 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-7PM| price= | wikidata=Q115376483 | content=Cheap place to buy cigars, cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, clothing, electronics, chocolates, and biscuits. }} * {{buy | name=Kompleks Budaya Kraf | alt= | url=https://www.kraftangan.gov.my/kompleks-kraf/kompleks-kraf-langkawi | email= | address= | lat=6.420382 | long=99.780361 | directions=Northeastern Coast | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q115396068 | content=Enormous handicrafts centre built in neo-Islamic style. }} * {{buy | name=KV Tobacco | url= | email= | address=136, Kompleks Kelana Mas | lat= | long= | directions=5 min walk away from Kuah, in an area called the Trimula | phone=+60 19 5422558 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 1:30-8:30PM | price= | content=Well-stocked tobacco and cigar shop. Easily recognisable by a big orange signboard, and door painting by the left. Has a variety of Cuban cigars, rare European smoking pipes and packed tobaccos. Knowledgeable and friendly shop owner. }} == Eat == There are food stalls and restaurants all over Langkawi. Try one of the many seafood restaurants. Langkawi people like their food hot and spicy, and even if they tone things down at your request, you may still find your food challenging to eat. Seafood or fish may be priced by weight or by a set price for the dish - clarify before ordering. === Budget === For a taste of simple Malay-style breakfast, just walk up to a small stall opposite the Underwater World in the mornings and feast on the famous freshly-prepared banana leaf-wrapped ''nasi lemak'' (steamed rice in coconut milk). The price is most affordable at less than RM 2 for a pack. Go local and enjoy this with a glass of hot teh tarik or really good local coffee. This very unassuming stall is just simple and great (clean too!). The nasi lemak comes with curried beef, squid in chili, fried salted fish or chicken. * {{eat | name=AddaMaya Café | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang (near Haji Ramli's; or opposite Nadia's Comfort Inn) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small, cosy place for meals and coffee. The chef can whip up great meals - from local dishes to western fast food easily (and in that little cabin of his). It can get a bit dusty as it is located fronting the main road. Locals like to come here for good food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Rafi's Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=sandwiched between Restoran Aliah's and Tomato Nasi Kandar on Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=nasi lemak (RM3), local tea and coffee (RM1) | content=Rustic shack. No visible signboard either but ask around and you will find Rafi's. Rafi is a Penangite but has been on the island since 1988 so he considers himself very much local. Ask him for recommendations and he'll happily tell you. Ample parking space in front of his 'shack'. Good ambiance especially early mornings. }} * {{eat | name=Tomato Nasi Kandar | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Opposite Langkawi Boutique Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=RM1-3 for roti, RM 4-10 for main dishes | content=Typical budget Indian food establishment with patrons all day (and night!) long. Very crowded even in the wee hours of the morning. They serve an enormous variety of dishes, from the flavoured roti varieties to naan, briyani and kebabs. The standard is quite high - to an extent where the meal is extremely value-for-money. The only problem is that their waiters are exceedingly bad at taking orders. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Fatimah | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.327201 | long=99.782691 | directions=near the Kampung Tok Senik Resort on the road to Ulu Melaka | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q115299112 | content=Try this for really authentic Malay food. Their lunch spread is amazing - so amazing that they attract bus loads of Malaysian visitors. Just enjoy the food and leave your cultural baggage and complaints behind as you will be in a totally different ambience but friendly, nevertheless. }} * {{eat | name=Restoran Almaz | url= | email= | address=northern end of Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions=Next door to the 'Laman Padi Rice Garden' and across the road from 'Casa Del Mar' | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=RM0.80-12 | content=A really nice little restaurant with Roti and Indian food that is very tasty and cheap. }} === Mid-range === * {{eat | name=Artisans Pizza Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.295422 | long=99.723837 | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=RM15 for main courses. RM30-38 for 11-inch pizzas | wikidata=Q115299652 | content=Offers freshly cooked pizzas with both traditional and Malaysian toppings. The satay pizza and sambal pizza are particularly good. You can dine in or takeaway and they also deliver to guesthouses and the beach. Their house specialties: Hungarian Goulash and Madam's Fishbake are particularly recommended. Tomato soup is also great. }} * {{eat | name=Babylon Mat Lounge & BBQ | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Right on Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mats are laid out on the sand for guests to sit on and there is a low table with a candle. They also have a live band or playlist that is passed off as a DJ. In contrast to the atmosphere, the staff are quite rude compared to other places. }} * {{eat | name=Cenang Boat Quay | url= | email= | address=Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers a variety of pizza, German sausages, pasta, local dishes, fusion food and a grilled fish hawker. The concept here is by individual hawker selling the different styles of food. Sunset view at the Quay. }} * {{eat | name=Champor Champur | url= | email= | address=Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Moderately wacky fusion food in a fusion setting courtesy of a Dutch-Malaysian couple with an affinity for Africa. Great ambiance - feels like eating in an outdoor garden. }} * {{eat | name=Fat Mum Restaurant | url= | email= | address=Pantai Tengah | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 2 4707863 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Just up the road from Awana Resort. Great authentic local Chinese seafood restaurant, good food for a reasonable price. }} * {{eat | name=Hole in the Wall Fishfarm & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kilim River, northeast part of the island | lat= | long= | directions=call for free shuttle | phone=+60 4 9675301 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Floating on the river, part of the amazing scenery of the Kilim Mangrove Forest. They serve the freshest Malay style seafood you will be able to eat on Langkawi island. The traditional dishes of freshly caught fish, prawns, crab, lobster. are famous. Shuttle service from Kilim jetty to the fishfarm restaurant and return is free of charge for lunch and dinner guests (However, if your bill is less than RM50, you have to pay an absurd amount for the shuttle. The logical workaround here is to order the cheapest available item to make the bill RM50) If you book a Mangrove Tour, you will most definitely end up having your lunch here. However, you may want to give their package buffet a pass and try their dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mimi | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=a few minutes walk from Underwater World, on the opposite side of the road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Snapper or grouper RM4/100 gram | content=Greatest 'ikan bakar' or grilled fish with tantalizing self-made sauce. Also offers a variety of traditional Malay dishes like tomyam and 'ayam masak merah' (chicken cooked in non-spicy sauce). }} * {{eat | name=Orkid Ria Seafood Restaurant | url=http://nicolekissdiet.blogspot.com/2008/11/orkid-ria-seafood-restaurant-langkawi.html | email= | address=Lot 1225 Jl Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 9554128 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 11AM-3PM and 6-11PM | price= | content=Some tables having water views. They have fresh seafood displayed out front. Choose from a wide range of cuisines, including dishes prepared in Malay, Thai, Chinese and Western styles. }} * {{eat | name=Rasa Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Good Malaysian food with reasonable prices. Seating available outdoor in courtyard overlooking main road or inside. }} * {{eat | name=Red Tomato Restaurant and Lounge | alt= | url=https://redtomatorestaurant.com.my | email=redtomatolangkawi@gmail.com | address=5 Casa Fina Ave | lat=6.286614 | long=99.730095 | directions=Pantai Cenang, in front of Underwaterworld tel | phone=+60 12 5136046 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-10:30PM | price= | wikidata=Q115249963 | content=Charm and great dishes. Look out for the owner's red VW Beetle parked in front of the place. Has great western breakfast and lunch menus, and pasta and tasteless pizza for dinner. Homemade bread, good choice of cheeses. Gluten-free pasta is available. Air-con and terrace seating, Free WiFi and a red piano. Owned by a German lady. }} * {{eat | name=Rose Tea 2 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Closed on Friday | price= | content=Thai food. Great service. }} * {{eat | name=Sun Cafe | url=http://www.sungroup-langkawi.com/suncafe/index.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A friendly and relaxing restaurant that offers a variety of Western food, Italian food, and Malaysian food. Hot and cold beverages, cappuccino to milkshake, fruit juice, mocktail. If you love fish, try their fillet of barracuda. They are also open for dinner too. Also famous for the very nice restrooms. }} * {{eat | name=Taj Mahal | alt= | url= | email= | address=Landcon Square | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Zon Shopping Mall | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Huge open-sided restaurant, also has an air-con room opposite for hot days. Specialises in Arabic and North Indian dishes all of which are very healthy, very tasty and very cheap. Very popular with locals and with Indian and Arabic holidaymakers. Great place to just sit around for a few hours occasionally ordering another batch of fresh flat breads and dips. }} * {{eat | name=T. Jay's Italian Bistro & Pizzeria | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang, opposite Underwater World | phone=+60 4 9553995 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 8AM-11PM | price= | content=Though this place looks a little sleepy, they make some great wood-fired pizzas. }} * {{eat | name=Telaga Arabic Cafe and Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The same kitchen serves an indoor dining area and a large outdoor area across the street. Good food with reasonable prices. Stay and enjoy some of the best hookah/shisha (tobacco water pipe) smoking anywhere. While good, the food is not as great as some Middle Eastern restaurants in Kuala Lumpur. }} * {{eat | name=Wonderland Food Store | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lot 179, 180, 181 Pusat Perniagaan Kelana Mas | lat=6.32469 | long=99.843878 | directions=Kuah | phone=+60 12 6230441 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 6–11:30PM | price= | wikidata=Q115351995 | content=Locals claim that Wonderland serves up the best seafood on Langkawi Island; offering local favourites of traditionally cooked seafood entrees, the chilli crab is especially flavorsome. Service is friendly and prompt and the atmosphere is lovely. }} === Splurge === * {{eat | name=La Sal at Casa del Mar | alt= | url=https://casadelmar-langkawi.com/ | email= | address= | lat=6.296501 | long=99.722622 | directions=Pantai Cenang, on the beach | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q115352492 | content=Serves modern Asian and Western cuisine with a focus high quality fresh produce. The bar offers a wide variety of wine from the old and new worlds and themed cocktails during their sunset, poolside post-dinner period. }} * {{eat | name=The Lighthouse Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=the edge of Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fantastic food on the beach wonderful views. }} * {{eat | name=The Loaf | alt= | url=https://www.theloaf.asia/langkawi-cenang-plaza/ | email= | address=Lot No. C9 Perdana Quay | lat= | long= | directions=Telaga Harbour Park | phone=+60 4950 2101 | tollfree= | hours=F-W 8AM-11PM | price=Bread from RM4 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=Japanese-style bakery & bistro owned by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed, ex-Prime Minister of Malaysia. Quality breads and full meals. Amazing view of the harbour and the yachts especially if you have your breakfast al-fresco outside. Attentive staff. Try Tun's Favourite Breakfast set (2 softboiled eggs, a bowl of mutton curry and thick toasted bread) with coffee and orange juice. Good place to have a leisurely breakfast. }} * {{eat | name=Papadam Indian Cuisine | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang (near Underwater World) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Indian restaurant that also serves Arabic food. }} * {{eat | name=Sunsutra Restaurant | url= | email= | address=Jl Teluk Baru | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fine dining restaurant that serves great Western food too. If you're a big fan of lamb, you must try their lamb shank. Tender and full of flavours. Its portion is huge too! Good for someone who wants a hearty meal. }} * {{eat | name=Unkaizan Japanese Restaurant | alt= | url=https://unkaizan.com/ | email= | address=Lot395 Jl Telok Baru Pantai | lat=6.270453 | long=99.734014 | directions=Near to Awana Porto Malai | phone=+60 4 9554118 | tollfree= | hours=Th-Tu 6-11PM | price= | wikidata=Q115353038 | content=Japanese restaurant, with excellent food and wonderful service. }} == Drink == Because of Langkawi's tax-free status, alcohol is much cheaper than in the rest of Malaysia. Religious Muslims do not consume alcoholic drinks, and while they do tolerate non Muslims who do, try not to behave in a rowdy imbibed manner near them, their houses, mosques, and please respect local culture and communal sensitivities. For those living on a budget, you can obtain alcohol at cheap prices from the local duty-free shops: the larger the outlets, the lower the prices. Expect to pay RM35 for 1 L Absolut Vodka, RM37 for 1 L of Johnny Walker Red Label, RM45 for 1 L Kahlua, RM60 for 1 L Bailey's, and RM70 for 1 L Chivas Regal 12 years. Small cans of beer: RM2.30 for Tiger Beer 330 ml and RM1.80 for some cheap Dutch beer. Small quantities? 500 ml of some random gin per RM15. Some of those prices can be as cheap as a half of the price of the same product on the Duty Free Shop of the International Airport at Kuala Lumpur (KLIA). Despite low alcohol prices, Langkawi is predominantly popular with couples and families. Single travelers and backpackers may therefore be disappointed with the lack of nightlife. The liveliest part of the island is the part around Cenang. Most bars remain empty, particularly in the low season, and the 1-2 nightclubs may only seem worthwhile in the peak season, and even then only on Friday or Saturday nights. Overall, Langkawi provides a family-friendly alternative to Thai locations such as Phuket and Koh Samui. * {{drink | name=Bam-Boo-Ba | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/bamboobaloungebar/ | email= | address=SunBlock, Jalan Teluk Baru, Pantai Tengah | lat=6.2782965 | long=99.7330971 | directions=End of Sunba Block beach | phone= | tollfree= | hours=5PM-Late | price= | content=A covered open-air bar and lounge. Cool music, comfortable & relaxed place with beer on tap, shooters and great cocktails, a big projector screen for sports events and fiber-optic broadband. Happy Hours 5-9PM: draft Tiger/Heineken 5RM, House pouring spirits buy 1 free 1 10RM, cocktails buy 2 free 1 16RM-22RM. }} * {{drink | name=OMG Restaurant at Paradise 101 | alt= | url=https://www.paradise101.com/omg-restaurant/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Take a ferry | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=One of best and liveliest sports bars in Langkawi. On its own island; you will need to take the ferry here. Offers beach volleyball, kayaking, sunset cruises, parasailing, jet skis, and other activities. }} * {{drink | name=Raffi's Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=514695731948438 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang beach | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Beer: RM4 | content=Beach bar. }} * {{drink | name=Sunba Retro Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jalan Teluk Baru | lat=6.278679 | long=99.733097 | directions=Pantai Tengah; 15 minutes walk from Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 4 9531801 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM - 4AM | price= | wikidata=Q115353216 | content=Attracts a good crowd after midnight. House band and DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Yellow Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/yelllowbeachcafe/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang beach | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Beer RM7 | content=Beach bar. }} '''Bars in Kuah''' (Aug 2024) Despite being the islands "capital", the town of Kuah has a lot less going for it than Cenang in terms of bars. The following are the best/only places for a drink: * Cappuccino House Bistro ( BAR & CAFE ) * Cellar Bank Langkawi * The Blarney Stone Langkawi * Bottle & Glass Garden Cafe == Sleep == === Budget === Both luxury and eccentric hostels are common on Langkawi. If you are looking for budget accommodation, your best bet would be to walk along the beach and adjacent road at Pantai Cenang. It is hard to find budget accommodation in other beaches in Langkawi, except Pantai Cenang and Kuah town. Prices there normally range from RM50 to RM150 per room per night, on or next to the beach. * {{sleep | name=Rainbow Lodge | url=https://rainbowlangkawi.yolasite.com/ | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Kampung Haji Maidin, Pentai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM18, for a single bed in a mixed dorm. | content=20 beds. Each bed has its own cubicle room with curtain and directional fan. An outstanding bargain but no aircon or hot water. }} * {{sleep | name=AB Motel | url=http://abmotel.blogspot.com/ | email=abmotel@hotmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 4 9551300 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM120, sleeps 4 | content=30 rooms }} * {{sleep | name=Cenang Beach Motel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Northern end of Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 4 955 1395 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM55-75 | content=Good value. Clean rooms with fan or air-con directly on the beach. }} * {{sleep | name=Chandek Kura Hotel | alt= | url=http:///chandek_kura_hotel_1891252 | email= | address= | lat=6.330587 | long=99.748857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM89-120 | wikidata=Q115257100 | content=Nice rooms, but must drive to beach. }} * {{sleep | name=Gecko Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.296845 | long=99.724185 | directions=northern end of Pantai Cenang. Take the small road across from Orkid Ria restaurant | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm: RM15; Fan rooms: RM45-50 (shared bath RM35) | wikidata=Q115257252 | content=Bar on site. Nice lobby &mdash; comfy couch, wi-fi access, Astro TV playing, aquarium and friendly cats. They also have a few monkeys around one tree. Computers with internet access in the nearby Swiss Inn. }} * {{sleep | name=GeoPark Hotel & Dormitory | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Part of the Oriental Village | phone=+60 4959 2300 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=Dorm beds RM23, rooms RM245-480 | content=30 rooms. WiFi access in lobby. Outdoor pool. }} * {{sleep | name=Melati Tanjung Motel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.294624 | long=99.72451 | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM120-180 | wikidata=Q115257398 | content=Managed by a local family. All rooms have air-conditioning. }} * {{sleep | name=The Palms Guest House | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Fan room RM55, Aircon room RM85. Peak season fan RM75, air-con RM95 | content=8 rooms with queen beds (no twin rooms). Attached bathrooms with hot and cold shower. Mini-fridge. Free WiFi. }} * {{sleep | name=Senari Bay Resort | alt= | url=https://senari-bay-resort.business.site | email=senaribay@yahoo.com | address= | lat=6.303731 | long=99.720164 | directions=near Pantai Cenang | phone=+60 17 469 39 77 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=air-con room RM150 | wikidata=Q115257560 | content=12 clean rooms with queen beds and twin rooms), run by a lovely local couple. Attached bathrooms with hot and cold shower. Mini-fridge, TV, Private Beach, Free WiFi, Motor Scooter Rental, Fishing/boating trips with the owner. If you are looking for somewhere quiet and comfortable to get away from it all, without breaking the bank, then Senari Bay Resort is a good option. 15 min walk from Pantai Cenang. }} * {{sleep | name=Bumi Langkawi Homestay | alt= | url=http://bumilangkawi.com/ | email=bumilangkawi@gmail.com | address=No.70,Taman Cenderawasih | lat=6.322416 | long=99.784516 | directions= | phone=+60 12 4752880, +60 19 7208708 | tollfree= | fax=+60 4 9559677 | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=RM350-450/day (vary during peak season) | wikidata=Q115257716 | content=15-min drive from jetty at Kuah. The homestay has 4 rooms, 2 bathrooms and kitchen complete with electric appliances such as TV with Astro, refrigerator, washing machine, and water heater. Air-con and fan and provides blankets and towels. This homestay is spacious and suitable for a large group vacation trip (max 15 person including children; additional charges will apply for extra blankets, towels and pillows). }} * {{sleep | name=Bougainvillea Holiday Homes | url=http://www.picturetrail.com/bougainvillea | email=bougainvillea.langkawi@gmail.com | address=Pantai Cenang | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=3 self-catering holiday homes for weekly or long term rental. Situated in a quiet location, near Underwater World. 2 fully furnished, 1-bedroom houses (houses 1 and 2 double bed + single bed or roll out sofa ) and one chalet/studio, (house 3 - double bed). Air-con, self-catering kitchen, fully furnished, clean and comfortable amenities & quality linen, cleaning products provided, good security, mosquito nets, smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Houses 1 and 2 have secluded and covered gardens. House 3 has covered seating area at front with table and chairs. Outside parking. Weekly rates (7 nights) from approx. RM1,200 and longer term prices are negotiable. }} * {{sleep | name=Rumours Guesthouse and Cafe | alt= | url=http://rumoursguesthouselangkawi.wordpress.com/ | email=awieahmad@yahoo.com | address=Jalan Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi Kedah Darul Aman | lat= | long= | directions=Opposite side of the road to Duty Free Mall Zon, and about 100m north. It is down a little road about 50-100m | phone=+60 4 9552632, +60 175600803 (Awie) | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Really nice little guesthouse. Chilled atmosphere and very reasonable prices. The rooms are basic and clean, only cold water but in this place that is fine. Free Wi-Fi and the lounge area is comfortable enough. They have dorms from RM15, rooms with shared bathrooms for RM40, rooms with attached bathrooms for RM60 and rooms with air-con and hot showers from RM80. }} * {{sleep | name=Eylizar Homestay Langkawi | alt= | url= | email=langkawihomestay490@gmail.com | address=No.490 Taman Nilam | lat=6.37872 | long=99.86864 | directions=Jalan Ayer Hangat | phone=+60 195640251 (Whatsapp) | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=RM150-250 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=More than 15 units, 10 units Serviced apartments with swimming pool in Kuah town, guest house and chalet with swimming pool as well. Car rentals and local tours can be arranged. Most of the home stay have 3 bedrooms and 2 bathroom, full kitchen with electric appliances such as TV with Astro, refrigerator, washing machine, Air con, ceiling fan, blankets, towel. The home stay and serviced Apartment is suitable for large family group vacation trip (max 15 persons including children) no charge for extra pillow and blankets. }} === Mid-range === * {{sleep | name=Awana Porto Malai | url=http://www.awana.com.my/en/apm/index.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Southern tip of Langkawi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM245-4,800 w/breakfast; up to 15% off for booking online | content=208 spacious rooms and suites offer panoramic views of the lagoon and nearby islands and equipped with modern amenities and facilities. Fun swimming pool with fountains and slide for kids. }} * {{sleep | name=Bayview Langkawi | alt= | url=http://www.bayviewhotels.com/langkawi/ | email=bayviewlangkawi@bayviewhotels.com | address= | lat=6.323057 | long=99.849156 | directions=Downtown Kuah | phone=+60 4 9661818 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM240-530 w/breakfast | wikidata=Q115264785 | content=High-rise hotel with 282 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Star Resort | alt= | url=http://www.beststarresort.com | email=info@beststarresort.com | address=Lot PT 892, Jalan Pantai Cenang | lat=6.291177 | long=99.72643 | directions=Pantai Cenang, next to AB Motel | phone=+60 4 9551808 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM180-270 | wikidata=Q115271890 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=Beach front resort. Clean, comfortable and friendly. Coffee Garden. Air-conditioned rooms. Somehow, the hotel room TV sets are not equipped with remote control. And, make sure you get a room with a beach view, otherwise it might not be worth staying. }} * {{sleep | name=Charlie Motel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone=+60 4 9551200 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM85-145 | content=Dialysis treatment also available }} * {{sleep | name=Citin Hotel Langkawi by Compass Hospitality | url=http://www.citinlangkawi.com/ | email=enquiry@citinlangkawi.com | address=No. 3, Jl Pekan | lat=6.324567 | long=99.846124 | directions=in Kuah town | phone=+60 3 966 9000 | tollfree= | fax=+60 3 966 9001 | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM90 | content=Renovated, 46 cozy rooms, clean, air-con, 22" LCD flat screen TV, ensuite bathroom. There is a cafe which provides a decent breakfast and the lobby is with WiFi. The friendly staff are well informed about the island. }} * {{sleep | name=CoCoTop Hotel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Kelibang Kuah Langkawi, 5-10 min to town and jetty. | phone=+60 4 9672559 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Ranging from RM70-100 or approximately US$25-$40 | content=Quiet, Clean, air-con, friendly Environment with a hint of bakery fragrant every morning from a local owned bakery, 30 room hotel with, attached bathroom (hot and cold shower) and two single beds and TV. }} * {{sleep | name=Eaglebay Hotel Langkawi | alt= | url=https://www.eaglebay.com.my | email=info@eaglebay.com.my | address=No. 33 Persiaran Putera, Kuah | lat=6.315637 | long=99.854572 | directions= | phone=+60 4 9668585,+60 19 4499880 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=from RM150-240 | wikidata=Q115281568 | lastedit=2022-11-19 | content=132 rooms with air-con. The hotel's Central Park Restaurant has Malay, Chinese and Western cuisine. }} * {{sleep | name=Helang Hotel | alt= | url= | email=hotelhelang@po.jaring.my | address=Jalan Lima | lat= | long= | directions=located on airport grounds | phone=+60 4 9553030 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM155 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=232 spacious rooms. Airport accommodation. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Villa Resort | url=http://www.holidayvillalangkawi.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= RM300-1,400 | content=2 swimming pools, 3 tennis courts. 258 sea-facing guest-rooms and luxurious suites TV, in-house movies, air-con, fridge, mini bar, in-room coffee/tea-making facilities and in-room safe deposit box. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Langkasuka Langkawi | alt=Langkasuka Hotel | url=http://www.hotellangkasuka.com | email=inquiries@hotellangkasuka.com | address=Batu 3/4, A-14-15 Pokok Asam | lat= | long= | directions=in Kuah, 20 min from Langkawi International Airport and 10 min from Kuah Jetty | phone=+60 4 9666828 | tollfree= | fax=+60 4 9661371 | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM125 w/breakfast; year round discounts if booked online | content=168 spacious rooms and suites. All rooms with air-con, heated showers and mini refrigerator. }} * {{sleep | name=Kampung Tok Senik Resort | url=http://www.toksenikresort.com/ | email= | address=Lot 1577, Kawasan Mata Air, Mukim Ulu Melaka | lat= | long= | directions=Along the road to Ulu Melaka | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM150-350 + tax | content=Full facility resort. No beaches here but a truly green surrounding. }} * {{sleep | name=Kondo Istana Langkawi | url= | email= | address=Lot 575, Jalan Penarak, Kampung Padang Lalang, Mukin Kuah | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 9661118 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM125 | content=15 budget rooms, all of which have air-con, cableTV, and refrigerator. Fitness room/gym, internet, and room service. }} * {{sleep | name=Langkawi Seaview Hotel | url=http://www.lseaview.com/ | email=sales@lseaview.com | address=Langkawi Seaview Hotel | lat= | long= | directions=Kuah | phone=+60 4 9660600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=143 rooms. WiFi. }} * {{sleep | name=Mutiara Burau Bay | url=http://www.langkawi-resorts.com/burau/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM270-1,700 | content=Sprawling resort the tropical rainforest. 4 restaurants and 150 cabanas. There's a long stretch of beach and plenty of space for you to stake your own private spot if you don't mind swimming in the sewage outfall. The Seashell Beach and Cafe is a nice little place you can while away the evening with a couple of drinks and a pretty good live band. Go early to get a table as it can fill up pretty quickly after dinner. }} * {{sleep | name=Sandy Beach Resort | alt= | url=https://sandybeachresort.maktiranahotel.com/ | email= | address=Jalan Pantai Cenang | lat=6.2926 | long=99.72573 | directions= | phone=+60 4 9551308 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q115298770 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=Rather sprawling... straddling both sides of Pantai Cenang road. The beach-facing rooms are most popular. The beachside BBQ is great. }} * {{sleep | name=Shirin Villa | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Cenang | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM150 w/breakfast | content=3 bedrooms (2 air-cond + 1 fan). For 6 people, suitable for couple, friends &amp family gathering. Fully furnished, AstroTV, Kitchen, fridge. }} * {{sleep | name=Tropical Resort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.280477 | long=99.731735 | directions=Pantai Tengah, opposite Sun Café | phone=+60 4 9554075 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=RM80 | wikidata=Q115298965 | content=Quiet and clean chalets. Owned by Musa and his German wife, Laila. Rooms come with fan or air-con, attached bathroom (hot and cold shower) and two single beds and TV. Short walk from the beach, convenience shops, Malay style eateries, car rentals, stylish cafés, spa. Long term stays at discounted rates are available. No alcohol is permitted. }} * {{sleep | name=Azio Hotel | url=http://aziohotel.com/ | email=info@aziohotel.com | address=1-19 Jalan Pandak Maya 7 | lat= | long= | directions=Located in Kuah, 20 min from Langkawi International Airport and 10 min from Kuah Jetty | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM95-125 w/o breakfast | content= Rooms with LCD TV, air-con, WiFi, heated showers, hair drier but no refrigerator. Clean. }} === Splurge === * {{sleep | name=The Andaman | url=http://www.luxurycollection.com/andaman | email=theandaman@luxurycollection.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 9591088 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM690 | content=Built in the middle of virgin tropical rainforest, between the Mat Cincang mountain range and the Andaman Sea. Centuries-old trees, many with huge buttress roots and jungle creepers envelope the resort. 186 rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Berjaya Langkawi Resort | alt= | url=http://www.berjayahotel.com/langkawi/ | email=langkawi.rsvn@berjayahotel.com | address=Karong Berkunci 200, Burau Bay | lat=6.36675 | long=99.66726 | directions=5 min walk to the Cable Car station at the Oriental Village | phone=+60 4 959 1888 | tollfree=+1 800 88 3236 (Malaysia only) | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Biggest hotel on the island, with 424 rooms and suites. There are 9 F&B outlets including the Sunken Pool Bar and Boat House Bar. Nature walks with a qualified guide are provided free of charge to guests. Beach football, kiddie pool, watersports. This resort has abundant wildlife, some unique to the island. }} * {{sleep | name=Bon Ton | url=http://www.bontonresort.com.my/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= RM490-1,190 | content=One of the island's most stylish and intimate resorts. 8 individually styled antique Malay villas. Nam Restaurant at Bon Ton is regarded as one of the best on the island. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa del Mar | alt=Pantai Cenang | url=http://www.casadelmar-langkawi.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=RM980 | content=Boutique resort with 34 sea-facing rooms. Day spa, gymnasium, non-motorised watersports facilities. Restaurant & cocktail bar on the beach. Suitable for couples and adults. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Century Langkawi Beach Resort | alt=formerly Sheraton | url= | email= | address=Teluk Nibong | lat=6.360652 | long=99.707615 | directions=2 miles south of telaga harbour | phone=+60 4 9528000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM500 | content=In 38 acres of spacious, lush tropical surroundings with private beach coves. }} * {{sleep | name=Century Suria Suites | alt= | url=http://www.anytimeholidays.com.my/ | email= | address=Jalan Taman Pelangi | lat=6.32682 | long=99.83495 | directions= | phone=+60 124087327 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=3-star serviced apartment hotel just outside of Kuah. }} * {{sleep | name=The Danna Langkawi | url=http://www.thedanna.com | email=sales@thedanna.com | address=Telaga Harbour Park, Pantai Kok | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 959 3288 | tollfree= | fax=+60 4 959 3188 | checkin= | checkout=noon | price=From RM1,250 | content=5-star resort of 125 rooms and suites, opened in December 2010. Constructed in British Colonial style. 5 levels with big, richly decorated rooms. Gymnasium, business centre, child care centre, billiards room and spa. Outside, a three tiered infinity pool overlooks a private beach, bordered by lounges. }} * {{sleep | name=Four Seasons Resort | url=http://www.fourseasons.com/langkawi/ | email= | address=Jl Tanjung Rhu | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 950 8888 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM1,850, 4th night is free | content=Middle Eastern influenced resort set on the beautiful Tanjung Rhu beach. Probably the best place to spot a billionaire on the island. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa | url=http://www.holidayvillahotellangkawi.com/index.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM420, promotional rate: RM525 and up for 2 nights | content=4-star 258-room picturesque resort covering 13 acres of land. Large swimming pool with open air jacuzzi, an indoor pool for ladies and the Amoras spa. }} * {{sleep | name=Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa | url=http://www.meritushotels.com/meritus-pelangi-beach-resort-spa-langkawi/index.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM2070 plus 10% service charge | lastedit=2017-08-06 | content=350 rooms are spread over 51 clusters of elegant wooden chalets offering pool, sea or lake views. The Meritus offers seven F&B outlets including two pool bars and the excellent Niyom Thai Restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Rebak Island Resort - Vivanta by Taj Langkawi | alt= | url=http://www.rebakislandresort.com/ | email=rmresv.malaysia@tajhotels.com | address=Pulau Rebak Besar | lat=6.294380 | long=99.700363 | directions=On privately-owned {{acre|390}} Rebak Besar Island, a 15-min ferry ride from Port Langkasuka jetty | phone=+60 4966 5566 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=From RM525 | lastedit=2022-11-18 | content=94 rooms. Managed by India's Taj Group of Hotels. It consists of clusters of timber chalets. The hotel has the only fully equipped marina in Malaysia. }} * {{sleep | name=Sang Ria | url=http://www.purveyorofdreams.com | email= | address=Jl Tasik Anak | lat= | long= | directions=Pantai Tengah | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A tastefully designed beach villa in a contemporary Asian style. Their breakfast is delicious but must be booked in advance. Near great restaurants, bars and cafes. }} * {{sleep | name=Tanjung Rhu Resort | url=http://www.tanjungrhu.com.my | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Standard rooms from RM1,400/night | content=A resort on what most people consider to be the best beach on the island. It has been built to minimize any environmental damage and to blend in well with its surroundings. 60 m pool, abundant gardens, restaurants, very well maintained. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/lgkwi-the-westin-langkawi-resort-and-spa/ | email= | address=Jalan Pantai Dato Syed Omar, Kedah | lat=6.3001123 | long=99.8532113 | directions= | phone=+60 4-960 8888 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From RM700 | content=202 rooms and 400 villas }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Temple Tree Resort Langkawi Malaysia | alt= | url=https://www.templetree.com.my/ | email=enquiries@templetree.com.my | address=Lot 1053, Jalan Pantai Chenang, Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 17-599 5935 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Consists of 25 heritage houses. }} ==Connect== === Telephone === Mobile phone coverage is very good in all built up areas of Langkawi. Many affordable pre-paid phone and data plans are available. Recharge cards are readily available except for the very cheap TuneTalk which is harder to find and SIM cards almost non existent. It is best to buy this back in LLCT where no commission is charged on the SIM. Full reception and reasonable data speeds can be achieved on the beach and inside the resorts on Pantai Cenang and Pantai Tengah. === Post === The main post office in located in Kuah Town. Mini post offices can be found in Padang Mat Sirat. There is no post office in Pantai Cenang, but you can buy stamps and send postcards in T Shoppe on the main road. Courier service, Poslaju shop can be found at Taman Berlian, Kuah. === Internet === Broadband is available and some Internet cafés can be found along Pantai Tengah, Pantai Cenang and Kuah. In addition, many of the upscale hotels, resorts, and restaurants provide free WiFi. == Stay healthy == The biggest health risk on Langkawi is from jellyfish stings, especially during January - June season. Uninformed visitors are stung every day and the lifeguards on Pantai Cenang and the hospital treat more or less severe cases of jellyfish stings most days. There are several species of jellyfish in Langkawi's waters, while most will give you a nasty sting or a burn, there are some that will cause partial paralysis or even kill, in case of the lethal box jellyfish. If you have been stung badly, don't exert yourself physically as this will pump the toxins around the bloodstream and aggravate the symptoms. Vinegar is the only scientifically proven treatment for tropical jellyfish stings, apply it for 30 seconds to block toxin which has not yet been absorbed into the blood. To stay safe, swim only in stinger suit. Langkawi can have a lot of '''mosquitoes''' depending on the time of year and location (i.e. Mangrove areas), so don't forget to use mosquito repellent. "Off" spray and various citronella or DEET based products are available in most supermarkets. Average temperatures are hot or hotter; it's the tropics. Be sure to stay '''hydrated'''. You will need to drink about 3 litres a day and don't wait till you are thirsty to drink. Room temperature water preferably. De-hydration accounts for a large percentage of dodgy tummy holiday illnesses. See also [[Tropical diseases]]. ==Stay safe== Speedboats can often bounce off the waves at very high speeds and passengers can get quite strong jolts into the non-sprung seats, so persons with back or neck problems should not travel on the speedboats, but on the ferry. There have been reports of serious back injuries happening on the speedboats. They are also known as 'vomit comets' due to the number of people succumbing to sea sickness. Bring lots of water and be prepared for a bumpy ride! Also be very careful while swimming. At times, tides and currents can be very aggressive and not easy to spot. Be careful driving around Langkawi at night. Although main roads are well-lit, some of the more minor roads are not very well lit and may pass through Kampungs (traditional Malay villages) or rural areas where the locals seem to take a very casual approach to '''road safety'''. Drive slow and watch out for erratically piloted motorbikes, pedestrians and livestock. Inside Kuah Town, watch out for errors in the road arrows - they may lead you into wrong lanes or into barricades. at night, watch out for water buffalo sleeping in the road. '''Crime''' is generally not a problem on Langkawi, especially compared to the larger cities in Malaysia. In theory, you don't even have to lock your car, because it cannot get off the island without customs knowing about it! Beware of '''smart wild monkeys'''. Those at Tengkorak beach attack humans who have food. If attacked, pick up stones (or just pretend to do so) and throw them at the monkeys, this will scare them away. Also, do not carry plastic bags as the monkeys associate these with food. Don't let them get too close to you or they will steal your glasses. Please read up on rip tides before you go; learn to recognise and to avoid them. == Respect == Langkawi is a Geopark but still needs to improve its environmental friendliness. Don't participate in certain activities such as eagle feeding and monkey feeding as this harms the animals by encouraging them to become reliant on tourists and you may give them the wrong food. ==Go next== * [[Ko Lipe]] &mdash; Great diving and snorkeling at the only inhabited island in Tarutao National Marine Park, a short speedboat ride (1½ hr) away on the Thai side of the border. * [[Ko Tarutao]] &mdash; Another island in Tarutao National Marine Park, however does not suffer from the rapid development issues faced by Ko Lipe. * [[Penang]] {{geo|6.53|99.8|zoom=10}} {{isPartOf|Kedah}} {{usablecity}} 279ublfbaa5meg63l34hoqsnfmd18pm 0 19141 5090907 5045110 2025-07-10T15:16:05Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ event > 2026 5090907 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Largs banner Spires.jpg}} '''Largs''' is a seaside resort on the Clyde coast of [[Ayrshire]], with a population of 10,900 in 2022. It’s where Viking power in Scotland was broken, at the Battle of Largs in 1263, and the Vikingar Exhibition is the town’s main attraction. Largs is the ferry port for the short crossing to the Isle of Great Cumbrae, and a base for exploring Ayrshire. == Understand == [[File:Viking Ship Sculpture, Largs - geograph.org.uk - 499187.jpg | thumb | 300px | Metal sculpture of Viking longboat ]] The Battle of Largs was a small and indecisive affair, but it spelt the failure of a Norwegian sea expedition to re-assert their control in this region. They were beaten by storms more than Scots, in an era when climate change was sapping sea-borne power across the far north, and the Vikings disappeared from history to be replaced by Nordic nation states. Subsequently the Norwegians ceded Strathclyde, the Hebrides and the Isle of Man to Scotland, while retaining Orkney and Shetland. The Scots named the place ''An Leargaidh'', “the slopes”. Not much else happened in Largs for another 600 years, and then its fortunes rose as the city of Glasgow expanded, becoming a fashionable place for city merchants to have a country retreat. Lord Brisbane, governor of New South Wales, was born here in 1773, and the physicist Lord Kelvin lived here. In the 19th century Largs became part of the “Costa Clyde” or “Glasgow Riviera” — the string of small resorts such as Troon, Ayr, Girvan and Arran. It remains popular in summer with day-trippers from the city. In 1944 King Haakon VII of Norway was in wartime exile in Britain and was made the first honorary citizen of Largs, just to let bygones be bygones. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.800 | -4.860 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} '''By plane:''' from Glasgow Airport ({{IATA|GLA}}) take the local bus to Paisley then the train; or the airport bus into central Glasgow for buses and trains. Prestwick Airport ({{IATA|PIK}}) is closer but only has holiday flights to the Med. Take Bus 585 or the train as below. '''By train:''' Trains run hourly from Glasgow Central, taking one hour via [[Paisley]] Gilmour Street, [[Kilbirnie]], [[Kilwinning]] and [[Ardrossan]]. The last train leaves around 11PM. Change at Kilwinning for trains from Ayr, Prestwick, Troon or Irvine. {{marker | name=Largs railway station | type=go | lat=55.7933 | long=-4.8674 }} is central. There's a staffed ticket office and machines, toilets and a waiting room. There is step-free access to both platforms. '''By bus:''' McGill's Bus 903 runs from Glasgow Buchanan station, taking 40 min via Braehead, Port Glasgow, Greenock, [[Inverkip]] and Wemyss Bay (for ferry to Bute). It runs every 30 min M-Sa and hourly on Sunday. Bus 901 is a slower route from Buchanan station via [[Greenock]] and [[Gourock]] (for ferries to Kilcreggan and Dunoon). Stagecoach Bus 585 runs every 30 min from [[Ayr (Scotland) | Ayr]] via [[Prestwick]] Airport and town, [[Irvine (Scotland) | Irvine]] and [[Ardrossan]] (for ferry to Arran). There's no bus station in Largs, the buses make several stops in town including the railway station and ferry pier. '''By boat:''' see [[Millport (Cumbrae) | Great Cumbrae]] for the short ferry crossing to the island. You have to return the same way. {{marker | name=Largs ferry pier | type=go | lat=55.7949 | long=-4.8710 }} is 200 yards northwest of the railway station. == Get around == [[File:'The Pencil' - Battle of Largs Monument.jpg | thumb | 300px | "The Pencil" battle monument ]] Largs is relatively small and easily explored on foot. Taxi operators are Largs Central ({{phone|+44 1475 687119}}), Ravi's ({{phone|+44 7555 457337}}), Bond Cars ({{phone|+44 1475 670007}}, but there any similarity ends), Brisbane / Waterside Motors ({{phone|+44 1475 689990}}) and Barrys ({{phone|+44 7709 034761}}). == See == * '''The promenade''' has grand views over the Firth of Clyde towards Arran, Cumbrae, Bute and Argyll. * {{see | name=Vikingar! | alt= | url=https://kaleisure.com/vikingar-visitor-attraction/ | email= | address=Greenock Rd, Largs KA30 8QL | lat=55.8006 | long=-4.8687 | directions= | phone=+44 1475 689777 | tollfree= | hours=Apr-Oct daily, Feb Mar Nov Sa Su. | price=Adult £8, child £5.50 | lastedit=2024-12-13 | content=This tells the story of the Viking period of Scottish history, visit by hourly guided tour. It's within a large leisure centre with swimming pool, sauna and gym. }} * {{see | name=Largs Museum | alt= | url=https://www.largsmuseum.org/ | email= | address=Manse Court, Largs KA30 8AW | lat=55.7945 | long=-4.8690 | directions= | phone=+44 7712 039155 | tollfree= | hours=Apr-Oct | price= | lastedit=2024-12-13 | content=Volunteer-run display of local history. }} * '''Largs Old Kirk''' behind the museum was demolished in 1802 when the new parish church opened, but its grounds (open May-Sep daily 2-5PM, free) contain two notable 17th-century tombs. The Skelmorlie Aisle is the ornate tomb of Sir Robert Montgomerie and his wife Dame Margaret Douglas (killed young in a riding accident). The Montgomeries lived at Skelmorlie Castle, some miles north of town, nowadays a private mansion which can’t be visited. The Brisbane Aisle is the 17th-century free-standing burial vault of the Shaws of Kelsoland. * {{marker | name=The Pencil | type=see | lat=55.7791 | long=-4.8595 }} is a monument in the style of an Irish medieval round tower, built in 1912 to commemorate the Battle of Largs. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kelburnestate.com/ Kelburn Castle] | type=see | lat=55.7693 | long=-4.8451 }}: how come Disney never thought of doing up his castle like this? Or Ludwig II at Neuschwanstein? It's a large house 2 miles south of Largs dating to 14th century but prettified into a "chateau" in 1700. The facade needed replacing in 2007 and its owner Lord Glasgow hired Brazilian graffiti artists who gave it a bold, jazzy makeover. Lips were pursed by heritage officialdom, but M'Lud won them over and the graffiti stays. The castle has tours in summer, the grounds are open daily all year (parking £5). The nearby Kel Burn is scenic, rushing down from the hills. * '''Glengarnock Castle:''' see [[Kilbirnie]] for this battered medieval stump over the hills to the east. == Do == [[File:Cumbrae ferry at Largs - geograph.org.uk - 502439.jpg | thumb | 300px | Ferry to Great Cumbrae at Largs ]] * '''What's on?''' Read [https://www.largsandmillportnews.com/ Largs and Millport Weekly News]. * '''[https://www.barrfieldstheatre.com/ Barrfields Pavilion]''' is a 500-seat theatre just behind Vikingar off Greenock Rd, tel +44 1475 689777. * {{do | name=Sportscotland National Sports Training Centre | alt= | url=https://www.nationalcentreinverclyde.org.uk/ | email= | address=Burnside Rd KA30 8RW | lat=55.8033 | long=-4.8499 | directions= | phone=+44 1475 674666 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 6AM-10PM, Sa Su 8AM-10PM | price= | wikipedia=Inverclyde National Sports Training Centre | wikidata=Q6060057 | lastedit=2024-12-13 | content=This has a gym, fitness suites and indoor sports hall, but no pool. Clubs based here include archery, badminton, football, judo and tennis. }} * '''Amusement Arcades''' (as if, hypothetically, it would ever be wet and miserable on Largs prom) can be found at The Arcade and at Cullis's Amusements, both by the ferry pier. Clark's amusement area 200 yards north is outdoors. * '''Football:''' [https://largsthistle.info/ Largs Thistle] play soccer down in the amateur leagues, at Brisbane Rd 200 yards east of Vikingar. * '''Golf:''' [https://www.largsgolfclub.co.uk/ Largs GC] is south end of town. White tees 6150 yards, par 70, visitor round £50. : [https://www.routenburngolfclub.co.uk/ Routenburn GC] is north, white tees 5604 yards, par 68. * '''Greeto Bridge''' is reached by a 2-mile hike along the north slope of the Gogo Burn. Pick up the trail by following Gateside St then Flatt Rd east from town. * '''Prophet's Grave''' is a bosky stroll starting two miles northeast off the lane up Noddsdale. William Smith was Largs church minister when plague struck in 1647, and many townsfolk fled to camp out in Noddsdale. He preached but never prophesied, so his own death from plague and posthumous reputation as a prophet were things he didn't see coming. * '''[https://www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk Paddle Steamer ''Waverley'']''' calls at Largs in summer for sailings round the Firth of Clyde. * '''Largs Live''' is a weekend music festival, with the next on 23-28 June 2026, tbc. * '''[https://www.kelburngardenparty.com/ Kelburn Garden Party]''' is a music festival at the castle, with the next on 2-6 July 2026. * '''Viking Festival''' is over a week, with a Viking village on the promenade and fairground. The next is Sa 30 Aug - Su 7 Sept 2025. == Buy == * The main store is Morrisons next to the railway station, open M-Sa 7AM-1PM, Su 8AM-7PM. == Eat == [[File:Nardini's Cafe, Largs (1-6-2012).jpg | thumb | 300px | Nardini's Cafe]] : It's a beach resort, so there's lots of ice cream, fish & chips and other cheap eats, which the gulls will try to snatch off you. * {{eat | name=Nardini's | alt= | url=https://www.nardinis.co.uk/ | email=info@nardinis.co.uk | address=2 Greenock Rd KA30 8NF | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1475 675000 | tollfree= | hours=W-Su 10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-12-13 | content=A must-try when in Largs, a renowned Art Deco cafe & ice cream parlour plus "Tony Macaroni" Italian restaurant and shop. But not the cheapest, the famous name and setting adds to the price tag. }} * '''Nardini at the Moorings''' is their branch cafe at the ferry pier, open daily 8:30AM-5PM. * '''[https://kohinoorlargs.com/ Kohinoor]''' is opposite the railway station at 43a Main St, open Tu-Su 4-10PM. * '''[https://tintotapasbar.co.uk/ Tinto Tapas Bar]''' is at 1 Boyd St, corner with Gateside St, open daily 10AM-11PM. * {{eat | name=Room | alt= | url=https://www.roomatlargs.com | email= | address=50 Gallowgate St KA30 8LZ | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1475 675767 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-midnight | price= | lastedit=2024-12-13 | content=Family-friendly restaurant with bar. }} * '''The Catch at Fins''' is a seafood restaurant in Fairlie five miles south, see [[West Kilbride]] listing. == Drink == * '''[https://www.belhaven.co.uk/pubs/ayrshire/drouthy-neebors-largs Drouthy Neebors]''' is a Belhaven pub next to the railway station, open Su-Th 11:30AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight. * '''The George''' is at 17 Main St, open Su-W 11AM-8PM, Th-Sa 11AM-midnight. * '''The Three Reasons''' is at 14 Gallowgate St, open M-Sa 11AM-midnight, Su 12:30-10:30PM. * '''Ye Olde Anchor Inn''' is a friendly trad pub with an open fire, at 36 Gallowgate St just north of the ferry pier, open M-Sa 11AM-11:30PM, Su 12:30-10PM. * '''[https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/pubs/the-paddle-steamer-largs The Paddle Steamer]''' is a JD Wetherspoon next to the pier, open Su-Th 8AM-midnight, F Sa 8AM-1AM. == Sleep == [[File:Skelmorlie Aisle ceiling - Section 2 - west facing end.JPG | thumb | 300px | Ceiling within Skelmorlie Aisle ]] * {{sleep | name=Dawn Break Guest House | alt= | url=https://www.dawnbreakguesthouse.com/ | email= | address=29 Irvine Rd, Largs KA30 8HS | lat=55.7907 | long=-4.8617 | directions= | phone=+44 1475 689764 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2024-12-13 | content=Hospitable immaculate place, no pets. Minimum 2 night stay. }} * {{sleep | name=Peacock Guest House | alt= | url=https://www.peacockguesthouse.co.uk/ | email= | address=38 Charles St, Largs KA30 8HL | lat=55.7911 | long=-4.8633 | directions= | phone=+44 1475 687205 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2024-12-13 | content=Charming cosy B&B. }} * '''[https://katestravelexperience.eu/haven-house-largs-uk Haven House]''' is a B&B at 18 Charles St, 100 yards west of Peacock GH. * '''[http://www.broomlodge.co.uk/ Broom Lodge]{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' is a B&B on the sea front at 5 Broomfield Place, 100 yards west of Haven House. * {{sleep | name=St Leonards Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=9 Irvine Rd, Largs KA30 8JP | lat= | long= | directions=200 yards south of station | phone=+44 1475 673318 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2024-12-13 | content=Great reviews for this welcoming B&B. }} * {{sleep | name=Brisbane House Hotel | alt= | url=https://manorviewhotels.co.uk/hotels/brisbane/ | email= | address=14 Greenock Rd, Largs KA30 8NE | lat=55.7973 | long=-4.8677 | directions= | phone=+44 1475 687200 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £130 | lastedit=2024-12-13 | content=Smart hotel with grand views across the water, re-opened under new owners in 2024. If you use their car park, however briefly and even with a disabled sticker, you ''must'' promptly register the car at reception or you'll be fined. }} * {{sleep | name=Woodhouse Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.woodhousehotel.co.uk | email= | address=2 Barr Cres, Largs KA30 2PX | lat=55.8032 | long=-4.8714 | directions= | phone=+44 1475 673381 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £110 | lastedit=2024-12-13 | content=Clean welcoming place, dog-friendly. }} * {{sleep | name=Willowbank Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=96 Greenock Rd, Largs KA30 2PG | lat=55.8053 | long=-4.8736 | directions= | phone=+44 1475 672311 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £140 | lastedit=2024-12-13 | content=Pleasant old-style small hotel. }} * '''[https://www.whittlieburn.co.uk/ South Whittleburn Farm]''' has camping amid the chook-chooks and ponies. It's 3 miles northeast of town on Brisbane Glen Road. == Stay safe == [[File:Kelburn Castle - geograph.org.uk - 7012102.jpg | thumb | 300px | Kelburn Castle ]] Town centre is generally safe and well-policed, but late evening there's a few aggressive drunks and "neds" looking to pick fights. == Connect == As of Dec 2024, Largs and its approach roads have patchy 4G from O2 and Vodafone, and 5G from EE and Three. == Go next == * Take the ferry to [[Millport (Cumbrae) | Great Cumbrae]]. The island is easily cyclable, and buses meet the ferry and run to Millport. * Little Cumbrae is a private yoga retreat, with a boat service from Largs for those booked on courses. * The [[Isle of Bute]] is reached by ferry from [[Wemyss Bay]]. It can be day-tripped, but it’s worth a longer stay. Bute is also a stepping stone to Cowal and the Kintyre peninsula. * [[Ayr (Scotland) | Ayr]] is the best base for the Burns Heritage Museum at Alloway, and further south is Culzean Castle. * The [[Isle of Arran]] deserves a few days to explore. Frequent ferries sail from Ardrossan. {{geo|55.79388889|-4.86361111}} {{IsPartOf|Ayrshire}} {{usablecity}} 7blebfuht3rl1vja6j53szun0gpkp4j 0 19330 5090776 5066499 2025-07-10T12:55:37Z Martinogk 1919868 more churches 5090776 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Caribbean default banner.jpg|pgname=León|unesco_whs=yes}} [[File:Leon Catedral Techo 4.jpg|thumb|On the roof of the León Cathedral]] Founded in 1524, '''León''' is one of the oldest cities in the Americas. With colonial splendor, it is the intellectual center of [[Nicaragua]], renowned for its university, old churches, fine museums, revolutionary history and student life. It is also the home town of two of the finest poets in the Spanish language, Rubén Darío and Alfonso Cortés. ==Understand== The core of León is its Central Park (''Parque Central'') with the adjoining cathedral. Most important sights can be found within a 10-minute walk from there. From the perspective of the Central Park, the city’s lively commercial area is in the northeastern quadrant, where you will find the banks, most stores, the two municipal markets behind the cathedral and the San Juan church respectively, as well as many hotels and hostels. This is also where the main bus station is located, serving all destinations except the Pacific Ocean beaches. The more quiet cultural part of the city is in the northwestern and southwestern quadrants, and here you will find the university, the municipal theater, the cultural center, the park of the poets, the old monastery, most of the museums and the city's best restaurants. The southeastern quadrant is home to the hospital, and it is the least interesting quadrant from a tourist perspective. The major exception to this general outline is a cluster of bars one block west of the Central Park. [[Image:UNAN-Leon.jpg|thumb|The university in León.]] León is the home to the oldest university in Nicaragua and the second oldest in Central America. It is filled with students and has a vibrant night life. While older tourists flock to [[Granada (Nicaragua)|Granada]], young volunteers, backpackers and other ''extranjeros'' meld more with the locals in León compared to its colonial rival. Fourteen blocks west of the cathedral is the center of Sutiava, which is older than León, and which used to be an independent town populated by indigenous Americans. It still has its own cultural flavor and traditions. Here you will find the Suitava church and central square, a couple of museums, old church ruins, a small municipal market and the bus station for the Pacific Ocean beaches. ===History=== [[File:Nouvelle géographie universelle - la terre et les hommes (1876) (14590974179).jpg|thumbnail|left|León in 1876]] The official name of the city is '''Santiago de los Caballeros de León''', named after the city of [[León_(Spain)|León]] in [[Spain]]. When founded in 1524, it was located further east, at the western end of Lake Xolotlán. Ten years later, the Diocese of Nicaragua was established in León. After a destructive volcanic eruption of Momotombo, the city was moved to its present location in 1610. Almost the entire city was moved, including the saints in the churches and some of the dead in the cemeteries, but ruins of the old city can still be seen at ''León Viejo''. In 1812, the second oldest university in [[Central America]] was established in León. Together with [[Granada (Nicaragua)|Granada]], León has the most colonial architecture in Nicaragua. León has more colonial churches than any other place in Nicaragua, and if you are on the church tour, there are over a dozen beautiful historical churches to check out. After independence, the liberals of León and the conservatives of Granada struggled over which city would be the capital, ultimately leading to civil war in the 1850s. As a compromise, [[Managua]] became capital, but Granada conservatives held onto the presidency until the rise of liberal president José Santos Zelaya in 1896. León used to be the hub of cotton growing but that industry has declined, being replaced by sugar cane and other crops. [[File:Entierro de "Abel" Guadalupe Moreno.jpg|thumbnail|Revolutionaries in León in 1979]] During the Somoza family dictatorial rule, León was a center of resistance. In 1956, president and dictator Anastasio Somoza García was assassinated at the ''Casa del Obrero'' in León by the young poet Rigoberto López Pérez. In 1979, the Sandinistas took over León in violent street by street fighting. After losing the city, the dictator Anastasio Somoza Debayle bombed it, hitting civilians and fighters alike. You can still see the bombed out San Sebastián church three blocks south of the cathedral, as well as bullet marks on some buildings. On April 2018, there were protests in León against changes to the governments social security system. When repressed, the protests spread to the rest of the country, leading to many deaths in the hands of the Ortega government. Since then, the economy has been relatively depressed. Tourism took a big hit, although León is still popular among backpackers. ==Get in== ===By plane=== The closest commercial airport is in Managua {{IATA|MGA}}, roughly a 2-hour drive from León. A taxi to León costs about US$80 (2024). For a cheaper option, take a taxi to the UCA bus station with frequent micro buses to León. If you arrive late at night or have to leave early in the morning, there is a convenient hotel just across the street from the airport. ===By car=== The main roads to and from León are in excellent condition. From [[Managua]]: The best road to León is the ''Carretera Nueva a León'' (new road to León), which is about a 90-minute trip from center to center, although more during the Managua rush hour. At Mirador de Mateare (km 30) you can stop by the shore of Lake Managua for nice views of the Mombotombo and Mombotombito volcanos across the water. If hungry, stop for quesillo and tiste in [[Nagarote]] or [[La Paz Centro]]. Alternatively, you can take the newly renovated ''Carretera Vieja a León'' (old road to León), which is about the same distance with less traffic, but the road has more hills and turns. From [[Granada]] and [[Masaya]]: first drive to Managua, then follow the directions above. From [[Rivas]], [[San Juan del Sur]] and Los Pueblos Blancos: take the road to [[Jinotepe]] and [[El Crucero]] and then the ''Carretera Vieja a León''. From [[Boaco]], [[Juigalpa]], [[Bluefields]], [[San Carlos (Nicaragua)|San Carlos]] and other places to the east of Lake Nicaragua: There are two options. You can either drive to [[Managua]], and then follow the directions above. The roads are good but the Managua rush hour traffic can be bad. Alternatively, when you get to the [[Pan-American Highway]] in San Benito, make a right turn instead of left, and after 6.5 km on that highway, take a left to [[San Fransisco Libre]] and continue on to El Tamarindo on the highway that connects León with [[Estelí]] and [[Matagalpa]]. In El Tamarindo make a left, followed by another left when you reach [[Telica]] on the León to Chinandega highway. This route is about the same distance as the one through Managua, and it has much less traffic, but, while most of the road is in excellent shape, the 26 km between San Francisco Libre and El Tamarindo is a wide and flat gravel road. From [[Estelí]], [[Matagalpa]] and other places in the north: take the [[Pan-American Highway]] to ''Emplame San Isidro León'', which is 3 km southeast of San Isidro. From there, head southwest on highway No. 26 which is in great shape. When you reach Telica and the highway between León and [[Chinandega]], make a left. ===By bus=== * From [[Managua]]: Take the vans leaving from Mercado Israel Lewites or the micro buses (camionetas) leaving from UCA (Universidad Centro Americana). The vans from Mercado Israel Lewites are 15-passenger vans that are fairly crowded, but not excessively uncomfortable, particularly when you sit next to a window. Buses run regularly, leaving from the Mercado every 15-20 minutes. Microbuses leave from La UCA beginning at 04:30 until approx. 21:00. They leave whenever they are full, usually every 15 minutes. The bus from either terminal costs C$46. If you take the bus, make sure to get an ''expreso'' - otherwise the bus makes stops to pick up passengers on the side of the road along the way. Direct transportation is available directly from the Managua airport via private van service, up to US$60-70 one-way. * From [[Granada_(Nicaragua)|Granada]]: Take a minivan to Managua UCA station and transfer to another minivan to León. It takes around 4 hours and costs less than C$90. * From [[Esteli]]: There is one direct bus daily. If you miss it, you have to change in San Isidro on the Panamerican Highway. Minivan service directly to Leon is also available from Esteli (C$75, 2 hours) but times and availability are not regular, and they will not leave until full. * From [[Matagalpa]]: There are two direct buses running daily, otherwise take a bus to San Isidro and transfer to León. * From [[Chinandega]]: Buses for León depart every 15 minutes. The León bus terminal is 1.9 km northeast of the Central Park. If you do not want to make the 20-minute walk to the center, take the local bus, a bicycle taxi or a regular taxi for about C$20 per person. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|12.433|-86.886|zoom=14|height=420|width=600}} The city is a great place to '''walk''', and by foot you can easily reach every major tourist attraction except those in Sutiava, which is a bit more of a hike but still doable. '''Bicycling''' is popular among the locals. Many hotels and hostels offer bike rental for around USD10 per day. White '''local buses''' run from the inter-city bus station in the northeastern part of the town and the municipal market behind the San Juan church, to the center of León. They also go to the municipal market in Sutiava, where buses leave for the beach towns of [[Las Peñitas]] and [[Poneloya]]. '''Bicycle taxis''' are widely available but not allowed close to the Central Park. Regular '''taxis''' are C$20 anywhere in the city before 19:00, C$30 after 19:00. Within the city, you always pay per person and you may share the taxi with other passengers heading in the same direction. ==See== [[File:GigantonesLeon1.jpg|thumb|Central park]] The main attraction in León is the city itself, with its colonial houses and churches, and its vibrant student life. The two specific sights not to miss are the cathedral, with a side visit onto its roof, and the beautiful Ortiz-Gurdián Art Museum. ''Parks'' * {{see | name=Central Park | alt=Parque Central | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.434866 | long=-86.878968 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-15 | content=A lively park with a fountain and shady trees in front of the cathedral. The park is a great place to people watch as it is packed with families and youth chatting, kids riding their bikes and vendors selling ice cream, drinks and souvenirs. On weekends musicians, dancers or street performers may add to the atmosphere. }} * {{see | name=Park of the Poets | alt=Parque de los Poetas |url= | email= | address= | lat=12.435023 | long=-86.880438 | directions=from Central Park NW, 1 block west. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04 | content=A park honoring major poets of the Spanish language, all with connections to León, including Rubén Darío, Alfonso Cortes, Salomón de la Selva, Azarías Pallais and Antenor Sandino Hernández. At night you can grab a piece to eat at one of the food stands. }} * {{see | name=Rubén Darío Centenial Park | alt= |url= | email= | address= | lat=12.41776 | long=-86.86961 | directions=along the road towards Managua, next to the new Baseball stadium. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04 | content=A park honoring poet Rubén Darío built in 2016 on the one hundred anniversary of his death. The park has a big monument honoring the poet, surrounded by a beautiful flower garden. }} ''Churches'' [[File:Leon Cathedral 2018.jpg|thumb|León cathedral]] * {{see | name=León Cathedral | alt=Catedral de León | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.434971 | long=-86.878123 | directions=east side of Central Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The biggest cathedral in Central America and a [[UNESCO World Heritage site]]. The cathedral is the final resting place of the poet Rubén Darío, as well as many other notable Nicaraguans. For a small fee you can climb the stairs up to the roof, where you get a great view of all of León's churches and the surrounding volcanoes. You also get a close-up view of the giant sculptures holding up the cathedral bells; just don't ring them. You can also go into the cellars beneath the cathedral. }} [[File:Barrio El Sagrario, León, Nicaragua - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|Iglesia la Merced]] * {{see | name=Iglesia de la Merced | alt= | | email= | address= | lat=12.43651 | long=-86.87927 | directions= from Central Park NW, one block north | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-15 | content=Baroque church from 1762. It belonged to the friars of the Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mercy until they were expelled from Nicaragua in 1830. The church's statue of Saint Mary of Mercy came from Barcelona a few centuries ago. }} [[File:Iglesia de la Recoleccion - Leon - Nicaragua - 02 (30753748513).jpg|thumb|Iglesia de la Recolección]] * {{see | name=Iglesia de la Recolección | alt= | | email= | address= | lat=12.43761 | long=-86.87717 | directions= from Central Park NE, two blocks north, one block east | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-15 | content= Old church from 1793 with a bright yellow front in Mexican baroque style. }} * {{see | name=Iglesia El Calvario | alt= | url=https://www.visitleon.info/iglesia-calvario.html | email= | address= | lat=12.43569 | long=-86.87379 | directions= from Central Park NE, four blocks east | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A baroque-style church from 1764 with rich colors and vivid depiction of crucifixion inside. }} * {{see | name=Iglesia San Juan Bautista | alt= | | email= | address= | lat=12.43962 | long=-86.87497 | directions= from Central Park NE, three blocks east and four blocks north | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Located in front of Parque San Juan. Built between 1620 and 1650. Reconstructed in a neoclassical style in the 18th century, with large wooden columns. Used to be the church of the old hospital. }} * {{see | name=Iglesia San Filipe | alt= | | email= | address= | lat=12.44212 | long=-86.88066 | directions= from Central Park NW, 5 blocks west, 2 blocks north | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= A colonial 17th century church with a beautiful altarpiece. }} * {{see | name=Iglesia San José | alt= | | email= | address= | lat=12.44089 | long=-86.87915 | directions= from Central Park NW, 5 blocks north | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= A small church originally built as a chapel to Iglesia San Filipe. The church is old, but it has a modern façade after renovations in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. }} * {{see | name=Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Zaragoza | alt= | | email= | address= | lat=12.43706 | long=-86.88470 | directions= from Central Park NW, 6 blocks north, 1 block west | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=With its ashlar masonry it has almost a medieval look, but it is one of the newer churches, completed in 1934. }} * {{see | name=San Francisco Church | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.435176 | long=-86.881648 | directions=from Central Park NW, two blocks west. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-15 | content=Built in 1639, this is one of the oldest churches in Leon, located adjacent to the former Franciscan convent. The church closed in 1830 when the Franciscans were expelled, but reconstructed in the 1960s. It has a nice bell tower and some beautiful altarpieces. Outside the church there is a statue of Saint Francis talking to a wolf. }} * {{see | name=Iglesia San Juan de Dios | alt= | | email= | address= | lat=12.43409 | long=-86.88163 | directions=from Central Park SW, two blocks west | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Small church with a simple exterior. }} * {{see | name=Iglesia el Laborio | alt= | | email= | address= | lat=12.43202 | long=-86.88331 | directions=from Central Park SW, three blocks west, two blocks south | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Dedicated to dedicated to San Nicolás de Tolentino, this is one of the oldest churches in León, built in 1618. It has many beautiful statues of different saints. }} * {{see | name=Iglesia San Sebastian | alt=Iglesia de San Juan Bautista de Sutiava | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.43149 | long=-86.87871 | directions=from Central Park SE, three blocks south | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Protected by a newsly constructed roof, only ruins remains of the old historical church from the 18th centurty, after in was bombed by the Somoza dictatorship in 1979. A new parish church has been built next to the ruins. }} * {{see | name=Iglesia Guadalupe | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.42701 | long=-86.87794 | directions=from Central Park SE, six blocks south | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The main church in the southern part of León, built at the end of the 19th century. Unlike the typical west facng entrance of other León churches, the entrance of this church faces north towards the cathedral. }} * {{see | name=Ermita San Pedro | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.43339 | long=-86.89177 | directions=from Central Park SW, nine blocks west | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= A primitive barroque chapel completed in 1718. Originally one of four small chapels in Sutiava, this is the only one that survived the turbulent times of the early 19th century. }} * {{see | name=Iglesia de San Juan Bautista de Sutiava | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.433622 | long=-86.894907 | directions=from Central Park NW, twelve blocks west, one block south | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-15 | content=One of the oldest colonial churches in León, serving a traditionally indigenous community. The rustic wood interior is a pleasant deviance from the often ornate styles that are more typical of most León churches. }} ''Museums'' * {{see | name=Ortiz-Gurdián Art Museum | alt=Centro de Arte Fundación Ortiz Gurdián | url=http://cultura.fundacionortizgurdian.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.4347 | long=-86.8818 | directions=from Central Park NW, two blocks west and 20 meters south | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-17:00 | price=C$30 general, C$15 student (with ID), C$125 foreigner | lastedit=2024-04-15 | content=One of the finest art museums in Central America, located in four inter-connected colonial houses. Excellent collection of 20th century Nicaraguan and Latin American art, but there is also indigenous, colonial and contemporary Latin American art. The museum also has some European art, including work by Picasso, Chagall and Miró. Even if you hate art, make a visit to enjoy the museums beautiful colonial architecture. }} * {{see | name=Museum of the Revolution | alt=Museo de la Revolucion | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.434575 | long=-86.879518 | directions=west side of Central Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=C$50 | lastedit=2017-02 | content=The museum consists of a room with some displays and artifacts, none of which offer any explanations in English. The most unique aspect of this museum are the old guides, who provide an animated commentary on the beatings, arrests, street fights and assassinations of the revolutionary period, much of which are based on their own experiences. They will be sure to point out a picture of their younger self, rifle and all. }} * {{see | name=Rubén Darío Museum | alt=Museo Archivo Rubén Darío | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.434948 | long=-86.882981 | directions=from Central Park NW, three blocks west on Calle de Rubén Darío | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02 | content=The colonial home of writer and poet Rubén Darío, founder of the modernismo movement in Spanish literature. Pick up some of his poetry; ''Azul'' is probably his most famous work. }} * {{see | name=Centro Cultural y Museo Rigoberto López Pérez | alt=Casa del Obrero | url=https://m.facebook.com/pages/Museo-Rigoberto-López-Pérez/1674203719544102 | email= | address= | lat=12.436619 | long=-86.880782 | directions=from Central Park NW, one block west, 1½ blocks north | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A beautifully restored colonial building honoring the poet Rigoberto López Pérez. In 1956, in this building, he assassinated the dictator Anastasio Somoza García (father of the other two dictators, Luis and Anastasio Somoza Debayle), after which he was killed in a hail of bullets. The building has some nice art work including a mural by painter Ricardo Morales. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Myths and Legends | alt=Museo de los Mitos y Leyendas Tradiciones | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.431909 | long=-86.878797 | directions=from southeast corner of Central Park, three blocks south and 1/2 block west | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-07 | content=This is a museum with two themes. One part commemorates traditional myths and legends, with life size displays of costumes and other traditional objects. The second part commemorates the anti-Somoza activists who were jailed in the building during the 1970s, with drawings on the walls and a prominently displayed statute of an urban guerrilla holding a handmade bomb. Some sarcastically now call it the Museo de las Traiciones (Museum of the Treasons) as a reference to how the Sandinista rank and file has been cheated by Daniel Ortega and the rest of the Sandinista elite. }} * {{see | name=Center for Initative on the Environment | alt=Centro de Iniciativa Medio Ambiental | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.432697 | long=-86.873334 | directions=from the Martinez bridge, 1 block south, 1 block east and 1 block north | phone=+505 2311 0752 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8-12,2-5:30 | price=C$20 | lastedit=2017-02 | content=An educational center about animals, plants, biodiversity and the environment. }} ''Other'' * {{see | name=Street Murals | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02 | content=As you’re wandering around the streets, keep a lookout for large and small street murals, located in various places around the city. The murals usually have a political message or commemorate historical events such as the 1959 massacre of protesting students by the military. }} * {{see | name=El Fortín de Acosasco| alt= | url= https://www.visitleon.info/fortin-de-acosasco.html | email= | address= | lat=12.417108 | long=-86.893186 | directions=from Plaza Sutiava, two blocks east and 2 km south | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=For the best view over the city and the volcanoes, go to this old Somoza stronghold southwest of León, best reached from Sutiava. }} ==Do== ===Annual events=== * '''Semana Santa''' (''holy week'') is celebrated with religious processions throughout the week and from all the different churches. In Nicaragua, León is considered to be the best place to experience this holiday. * '''Festival Azul Diarío''' is celebrated at the end of July, at the anniversary of poet Rubén Diarío's most famous book, ''Azul'', which initiated ''modernism'' in Spanish literature when it was first published on July 30, 1888. Music and dance groups parade from his old home to the Central park, where there is a combination of exhibits, poetry, music and dance, as well as a visual show that uses the white front of the cathedral as a huge movie screen. * '''La Gritería Chiquita''' (''the little shout'') is celebrated on August 14, the eve of the assumption of Mary, as a smaller local version of the more famous ''La Gritería'' on December 7. It was first celebrated by the church in 1947 as a penance and response to the eruption of Cerro Negro. * '''La Vírgen de la Merced''' is celebrated on September 24, with processions in honor of León's patron saint. Each church also celebrates its own saint on different days throughout the year. * '''La Gritería''' (''the shout'') is celebrated throughout Nicaragua on December 7, but most intensely in León, where the tradition began. While some family members gather at home in front of a statue of the Virgin Mary, other walk from home to home shouting ''Quién causa tanta alegría?'' (who causes so much joy), which is answered by those at home with ''La concepción de María'' (the conception of Mary), while handing out candy and other sweets to the passersby. === Volcano climbing=== [[File:Volcán Telica.jpg|thumb|Volcán Telica]] Leon lies below the ''Cordillera de Los Maribios'', a mountain range with multiple volcanoes, and it is possible to hike most of them. The most popular volcano is '''Cerro Negro''', a young, small volcano that offers incredible views and slopes to practice volcanoboarding, where you can descend the volcano in great speed. Nearby there are two atypical volcanoes; '''Las Pilas''' and '''El Hoyo''', which can be hiked together. '''Telica,''' the most active volcano in the region, is climbable but only when it is calm so be prepared to give this one a miss. Hikers interested in a demanding climb should head to '''Momotombo''', which is also an active volcano. It is the most difficult volcano to hike but has the most spectacular views in Nicaragua, and it is worth the effort. Below '''Momotombo''' there are two volcanic lagoons: '''Asososca''' and '''Monte Galan,''' and these are great for cooling off after a long day or two of hiking. While it is possible to climb the volcanoes on your own, it is recommended to go with a guide or an organized tour, as hiking the volcanoes can at times be dangerous due to volcanic activity. It is also easy to get lost or run out of water. === Volcano boarding === [[File:Volcano Boarding Cerro Negro.jpg|thumb|left|Volcano boarding down Cerro Negro]] It is almost a rite of passage for every traveler that visits Leon to board down the side of Cerro Negro. Even for those not so interested in boarding, the 45-minute hike up offers spectacular views of a moonlike landscape. The actual boarding down is fun and generally involves sitting down on the board, leaning back and controlling the speed with your feet in the sand. If you dare, you can reach speeds of up to 95 km/h on the steepest sections of the hill. All tour companies provide equipment, transport and usually a beverage after the ride. No tour organizations offer stand up style boarding so if you want to do this you will need to find your own gear. ===Hot springs=== The hot springs at '''Hervidores San Jacinto''', at the foot of the Telica volcano, makes for a great daytrip. Catch a bus at the terminal or take a taxi, round trip for C$300. Entrance is C$20 and you'll be hooked up with one of the local kids/guides. They are really nice and a must. Pay careful attention to where they walk, and take the same path, as you will be walking just above thermal activity. As someone said, "It's like a mini Yellowstone, without the fences." ===Baseball=== Catch a baseball game if you are there during the season. For C$50 you can sit right behind home plate, or pay less for 3rd base side where the lively crowd sits with the unofficial band. Order some vigoron, get a Victoria and enjoy. The stadium is in the northern part of the city, but a new larger one is being built south of the city, as of 2024, next to the road to Managua. * {{do | name=Estadio Héroes y Mártires de Septiembre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barrio San Felipe | lat=12.446676 | long=-86.881157 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=US$5 | lastedit=2024-04-26 | content=Lively, friendly stadium that's home field for the ''Leones de Leon'', the local professional baseball team. Good, inexpensive food and drinks with mascots, kids activities. }} ===Swimming=== [[File:Sunsetinponeloya.JPG|thumb|left|Sunset at the beach in Poneloya]] Go on a day trip to the beach to swim in the Pacific ocean. Choose between [[Las Peñitas]], which is known for its mellow vibe, or [[Poneloya]], which is less touristic. These are two of Nicaragua's nicest beaches, and they are both reached by a half hour bus ride from Sutiava or in 15 minutes by taxi (C$150-200 per person). The last bus back to León leaves the coast around 18:30 which gives you enough time to watch the spectacular sunsets over the beach. ===Surfing=== [[Las Peñitas]] is a great place for surfing, with lessons are available for beginners. There are plenty of good reliable waves to enjoy, although they are not among the very best in the country. ===Kayaking=== [[File:Chloroceryle aenea-03.jpg|thumb|Kingfisher on Isla Juan Venado]] The Isla Juan Venado Nature Reserve is a wonderful place for kayaking, cruising among the mangroves and watching birds and other wildlife. The long and narrow estuary between the island and the mainland goes all the 20 km between Las Peñitas and Salinas Grande, but most people make a shorter return trip with a nice break on the beach at the ocean side of the island. Kayaks can be rented in Las Peñitas or you can join one of the tours operating from León. ==Learn== ===Cooking=== *{{listing | name=Nicaraguan cooking | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= US$25 | content=Learn how to cook Nicaraguan food. The cooking class involves buying local ingredients from the market, creating your own tortillas at the local tortilleria and then going to a local household to cook the dish. }} ===Spanish=== There are Spanish schools in León, but you can also get excellent classes with private teachers. *{{listing | name=León Spanish School | alt= | url= | email= | address=| lat= 12.436184| long= -86.881702| directions=from San Francisco church, 1 block north, 20 m east | phone=+505 8743 2874 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$150/20 hr | content=Morning or afternoon one-on-one classes given at the ''Casa de Cultura''. Home stay available. }} ==Work== ''Volunteer work:'' There may be volunteer opportunities with local tour groups. ''Work for pay:'' For long-term visitors (6 month or so) it's sometimes possible to teach English. ==Buy== ===Groceries and household items=== All across the city you will find small ''pulperias'' that sell food, drinks, phone cards and common household items. Most of these operate out of the owners home. León has three main municipal markets, in central León just east of the Cathedral, in the northeast next to the San Juan church, and in Sutiava. There are also a few large supermarkets. *{{buy | name=Mercado Central | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.436607 | long= -86.876853| directions=Behind the cathedral. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Lots of vegetables, fruits, grains, meats and fish. }} *{{buy | name=Marcado La Estación | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.439745 | long= -86.873881| directions=behind the San Juan Bautista church | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Larger and somewhat cheaper than the Mercado Central. }} *{{buy | name=La Colonia | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.436125 | long= -86.883111| directions=from San Fransisco church, 1 block west and 1 block north | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Upscale supermarket. Expensive, but they have some international foods that you cannot get elsewhere. The best wine selection in town. }} *{{buy | name=La Unión | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.436607 | long= -86.876853| directions=from Central Park NE, 1 block north and 1½ blocks east | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The most centrally located supermarket, owned by Walmart. More expensive than the municipal markets. }} *{{buy | name=Pan y Paz French Bakery | alt= | url=http://www.panypaz.com/ | email= | address= | lat=12.436153 | long=-86.875375 | directions=from Cathedral NE, 1 block north, 1 1/2 blocks east | phone=+505 2311 0949 | tollfree= | hours=Monday-Saturday 07:00-20:00 | price= | content=Sells European style bread and pastries, good local cheeses and fine wine. Also a café. }} * {{buy | name=El León Dorado | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.4341 | long=-86.87679 | directions=from SE corner of Cathedral, 1 block south, 1/2 block east | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-14 | content=Excellent bakery with Nicaraguan style bread and pastry. Try their traditional 'picos' bread, which is renowned across the country. }} ===Clothing and apparel=== There are many small clothing and shoe stores around the city. For fast and cheap shoe and clothing repairs, head to the Central Market behind the cathedral. *{{buy | name=Centro de Compras Metropolitano | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.435704 | long= -86.877205| directions=just north of the Central Market | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A market place for clothes in a fine colonial architectural setting. }} *{{buy | name=JBernhard Designs | url= | email= | address= | lat= 12.436154| long=-86.882101 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Designer leather products including shirts, belts, holsters, handbags, backpacks and computer cases. Locally made. }} ===Books, magazines and office supplies=== *{{buy | name=Buho Books | url= http://buhobooksblogg.blogspot.com/| email= | address= | lat= 12.434927| long=-86.885501 | directions=from San Francisco church, 2½ blocks west | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small independent bookstore. Has books in Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, Dutch, Norwegian, Danish and Swedish, and maybe other languages as well. }} *{{buy | name=Librería Universitaria | url= https://m.facebook.com/LibreriaUNANLeon/| email= | address= | lat= 12.437218| long=-86.878011| directions=from La Recolección church, 1/2 block west | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The university book store with a good collection of academic literature. }} *{{buy | name=Librería y Variedades la Bendición | url= | email= | address= | lat= 12.435493| long=-86.882967| directions=from San Francisco church, 1 block west, 1/2 block north | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small store selling school and office supplies. Friendly personal service. }} ==Eat== ===Budget=== Food is sold by street vendors all across town and they are a popular source of energy among the local student population. Some good places to find them are in the Central Park, outside the La Union supermarket, and by the La Salle School three blocks west of the Central Park. *{{eat | name=Central Market | alt=Mercado Central | url= | email= | address= | lat= 12.435040| long=-86.877005 | directions=behind the cathedral | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Large food court with all sorts of great beans and eggs and rice and fried cheese and cheese-stuffed platanos and thick tortillas. Great for breakfast, you can fill up for a dollar or two. You can also buy fresh-made juices, and gaze in awe at the giant blocks of fried cheese. On the street behind the market is Buen Gusto, where you should grab some Pollo Vino on the cheap. }} *{{eat | name=Bar y Restaurante Misissipi | alt= Comedor Cucaracaha | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.43439 | long=-86.87374 | directions= from Central Park SE, 1 block south, 3 1/2 blocks east | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very tasty traditional Nicaraguan food. Great soups. Legendary restaurant popular among the locals. Simple atmosphere. }} * {{eat | name=Asados Pelibuey | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/AsadosDePelibuey/ | email= | address= | lat=12.436979 | long=-86.880596 | directions=from La Merced church, 1 block west, block north | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=C$60 | lastedit=2017-02-26 | content=A simple buffet style restaurant serving grilled chicken, beef, pork and pelibuey (lamb). Very popular among the locals. The restaurant is named after a type of sheep that does not grow wool, making it suitable for warm climates. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{eat | name=Restaurante Casa Vieja | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.43612 | long=-86.882229 | directions=from San Francisco Church, 1 block north, 20 m west | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=C$400 | content=Small cozy restaurant serving excellent Nicaraguan food. More popular among the Leonéses than tourists. Try their refreshing house lemonade. }} * {{eat | name=Tacubaya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.43825 | long=-86.88068 | directions=from Parque de las Poetas, 2½ blocks north | phone=+505 8329 6261 | tollfree= | hours=15:00-23:00 | price=C$300 | lastedit=2024-04-14 | content=Fantastic Latin American food in very nice and pleasant environment. Friendly service. Considered by many to be the best restaurant in León. }} * {{eat | name=El Bodegón | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.43564 | long=-86.88053 | directions=from Parque de las Poetas, 1½ blocks north | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=C$300 | lastedit=2024-04 | content=Nice Cuban food that is popular among tourists, but not quite as good as Tacubaya }} * {{eat | name=ViaVia | url=http://viavia.world/en/south-america/leon | email=leon.nicaragua@viaviacafe.com | address= | lat= 12.436885| long= -86.875875| directions=from NE corner of cathedral, 1 block east, 1½ blocks north | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=08:00 - 21:30 | price=C$25-145 | content= Popular international hangout with live music every Friday and trivia nights on Mondays. Has both international and Nicaraguan food. In the back there is a hostel with 2 dorm-rooms and 6 well-kept private rooms with bath. }} * {{eat | name=El Sesteo | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.435286 | long=-86.878711 | directions=northeast corner of Central Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04 | content=Great location with views of the cathedral. Has a diverse menu from typical local food and beverages to fast food. Ask for the Nicaraguan vegetable soup, which is delicious. }} * {{eat | name=Coco Calala | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.43698 | long=-86.8747 | directions=from Iglesia de la Recolleción, 2 blocks east, 1/2 block south | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=C$250 | lastedit=2024-04-14 | content=Tasty vegan food. Great fruit drinks. Popular among international travelers. }} * {{eat | name=Los Pescaditos | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.432147 | long= -86.896492| directions=from Sutiava church, 1 block south, 1½ blocks west | phone= +505 2311 2684 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great seafood restaurant in Sutiava. Worth the cab ride. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=El Victoriano | alt= | url=https://www.elconventonicaragua.com/ | email= | address= | lat= 12.435634| long=-86.881963 | directions=next to San Fransisco church | phone=+505 2311 7053 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=C$700 | lastedit= 2024-04 | content=Excellent restaurant at hotel El Convento. }} * {{eat | name=La Antigua 1620 | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083310440396 | email= | address= | lat= 12.43246| long= -86.88255| directions=from El Laborio church, 1/2 block east | phone=| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=C$500 | lastedit=2024-04 | content=Excellent food served in the oldest house in León, with many historical pictures on the walls. The taco appraiser is superb. Ask for a table by one of the old windows overlooking the street. }} * {{eat | name=Montezerino | alt= | url=https://www.restaurantemontezerino.com | email= | address= | lat= 12.424591| long= -86.866425| directions=at 91 km on the León bypass road, 2 km southeast of the city center | phone=+505 2311 2638| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04 | content=Meat restaurant serving a good fillet mignon or churrasco. It is open on the sides and serves as a night club at night. }} ==Drink== ===Coffee, tea and juices=== * {{drink | name=Mañana Mañana Café | alt= | url=https://www.pocoapocohostel.com/mananamananacafe | email= | address= | lat=12.43540 | long=86.87766 | directions=north side of cathedral | phone=+505 8163 7649 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 07:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-04 | content=Cappuccino, espresso, juice, waffles, paninis in minimalist setting. }} * {{drink | name=Sakura | alt= | url= https://www.facebook.com/SakurasBakeryNi/ | email= | address= | lat=12.43636 | long=-86.88295 | directions=from San Fransisco church, 1 block west, 1½ blocks north | phone=+505 8390 5894 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04 | content=Coffee, juices, Nicaraguan pastry and light breakfast and lunch fare. }} ===Bars and dancing=== There is a cluster of bars just west of the Central Park. Another option is: *{{drink | name=Gecko's Bar | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/geckosbaryrestaurante/ | email= | address=| lat= 12.437046| long= -86.880392| directions=from Central Park NW, 2 blocks north, 1/2 block west | phone=+505 2315 2144 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Alternative place where diversity is the main ingredient. You will find a wide variety of domestic and imported drinks and some dishes to try. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ''Dormitories (many with private rooms as well)'' * {{sleep | name=Hostal Lazybones | alt= | url=https://www.lazyboneshostelnicaragua.com/en | email= | address= | lat= 12.437736| long= -86.880739| directions=from NW corner of Central Park, 1 block west, 1½ blocks north | phone=+505 2311 3472 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=11 | price=Dorms US$8, privates w/o bath US$20, private w/bath US$30 | lastedit=2024-04 | content=Clean hostel with real beds and pillows. Included in the price are internet access, coffee/tea and a pool table. Check out the mural. No kitchen access. }} * {{sleep | name=Volcano Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/volcanohostelleon/ | email= | address= | lat= 12.438563| long= -86.878341| directions=from NW corner of Cathedral, 3 blocks north, ½ block east | phone=+505 7530 0378 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=privates from $17 (May 2022) | content=Friendly, peaceful and clean hostel, where you can relax in one of the hammocks by the pool. Restaurant, wifi, pet friendly (surcharge). }} * {{sleep | name=La Tortuga Booluda | alt= | url=https://tortugabooludahostel.com/en/ | email=tortugabooluda@yahoo.com | address= | lat=12.43404 | long=-86.88405 | directions=from the SW corner of the central park, 3½ blocks west | phone=+505 311-4653 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm: US$10, privates: US$20-50 (May 2022) | content=A/C optional, free Internet and Wifi, free pancake breakfast, free organic coffee, book exchange, bike rentals. }} ''Private Rooms'' * {{sleep | name=Hostel D´Oviedo | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/hostaldoviedo.leonnicaragua | email= | address= | lat= 12.432974 | long=-86.879299 | directions=from SW corner of Central Park, 2½ blocks south | phone=+505 2311 3766 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Room with shared bath $17, with private bath $23, with A/C $45 | lastedit= | content=More like a bed and breakfast than a hostel. A lovely Nicaraguan couples have converted their home into a hostel. Breakfast and really fast internet are included. Guests are also allowed to use their kitchen. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Los Balcones | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/HotelBalconesDeLeon/ | email= | address= | lat= 12.436126| long=-86.875814 | directions=from cathedral, 1 block east, then 1 block north | phone=+505 2311 0250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$50 per night | content=Has A/C, real mattresses, nice views, hot water, and great service. Friendly English-speaking staff. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=El Convento | alt= | url=https://www.elconventonicaragua.com/ | email= | address= | lat= 12.435634| long=-86.881963 | directions=from Central Park NW corner, 2 blocks west, 1/2 block north | phone=+505 2311 7053 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$113 (May 2022) | content=The most beautiful hotel in León, with rooms organized around a nicely landscaped courtyard. It is located next to the San Francisco church, in what used to be the former Franciscan monastery, and to honor its history, the hotel has some beautiful religious artwork. Worth a visit for lunch or dinner and a walk around the place even if you are not staying there. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel La Perla | alt= | url=https://zanohotels.com/hotellaperla1858.html | email= | address= | lat= 12.43753| long=-86.87935 | directions=from Central Park NW corner, 2½ blocks north | phone=+505 2311 3125 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$130 (May 2024) | content=High end hotel in an old building from 1858. Nice pool. }} ==Stay safe== León is by both Central American and Nicaraguan standards a safe city. You can safely walk in the city center during both the day and in the evening. ==Connect== There are ''Cybers'' all over town ==Go next== [[File:Catedral Nuestra Señora del Rosario. Estelí, Nicaragua.jpg|thumb|The cathedral in Estelí]] * '''[[Poneloya]]''' and '''[[Las Peñitas]]''' - Two Pacific Ocean beach towns and fishing villages. Great for swimming, surfing and kayaking. Located 20 km southwest of the city, they are easily reachable by taxi (C$150-250) or buses that depart from the municipal market in Sutiava. * '''[[Chinandega]]''' - A neighboring commercial city that is even hotter than León. It has an excellent archeological museum and some beautiful churches. It is 40 km northwest of León; buses leave every 15 minutes from the main bus terminal. * The '''northern beaches''' of Aposentillo, Juiqilillo, Padre Ramos and Mechapa, for swimming, surfing and kayaking in the Padre Ramón nature reserve. First go to Chinandega and then continue further north by car or bus. * '''[[Estelí]]''' - A lively mountain city in the cooler northern part of the country, famous for its murals and cigar makers, and surrounded by nature reserves. Direct bus service from the main bus terminal. * '''Ruins of León Viejo''' — The original site of León on the shore of Lake Managua and at the foot of the Momotombo volcano. This is a [[UNESCO World Heritage site]]. It is almost half way to Managua; take a bus to La Paz Centro, and then another bus to Puerto Momotombo. *'''[[Granada_(Nicaragua)|Granada]]''' - The other more touristy colonial city in [[Nicaragua]]. From the bus terminal, take a minivan to Managua UCA station and transfer to another minivan to Granada. It takes around 4 hours and costs less than C$90. *'''[[Honduras]]''' - From the neighboring city of [[Chinandega]] there is regular bus service to the Honduras border at El Guassaule. If you're heading all the way to the [[Bay Islands]], there are 3-4 weekly shuttles to [[La Ceiba]] ($65, 13 hours) leaving at 02:00 and arriving in time for the afternoon ferry to [[Útila]] or [[Roatán]]. *'''[[El Salvador]]''' - To [[El Tunco]], [[El Salvador]] there is a 10-person direct mini-shuttle with a/c ($45pp, 10 hours). $7pp fee at Nicaragua-Honduras border not included. If you want to avoid Honduras, take a bus to [[Chinandega]] and then another bus to Potosí on the Gulf of Fonseca. 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Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090821 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Le Havre banner Foreshore 2.jpg|unesco=yes}} '''Le Havre''' is a port city at the mouth of the Seine, on the English Channel (French: ''Manche'') in the region of [[Upper Normandy]] in [[France]]. Listed on the {{UNESCO}} for its reconstructed city centre, Le Havre is challenging its reputation as an industrial city. It is a city full of contrasts, which should be explored to discover its particular charm. == Understand == Le Havre, originally le Havre de Grâce (Harbour of Grace), was founded in the early 16th century at the mouth of the Seine as the main harbour for Paris. Goods transferred at Le Havre between ocean-going vessels and barges which went to and from Paris via the Seine. Le Havre was heavily bombed during the Battle of Normandy in 1944. The reconstruction of the town was undertaken by Auguste Perret using reinforced concrete. This project has led to the city being added to the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]]. ==Get in== {{Mapframe}} ===By train=== Trains run from [[Paris]] regularly, taking about 2 hours: most stop at [[Rouen]] en route. There is also a TGV from [[Marseille]] once a day. ===By boat=== Ferries run to [[Portsmouth]] and [[Newhaven]] in southern [[England]] daily. This service is provided by [http://www.ldlines.com/ LD lines]. [http://www.aferry.co.uk/portsmouth-le-havre-ferry.htm Crossing times are from 3 hr 15 min]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Popular alternative routes going to areas close to Le Havre include [[Newhaven]] to [[Dieppe]], and [[Poole]] to [[Cherbourg]]. ===By cruise ship=== The cruise terminal is just south of the ferry terminal. At the cruise terminal, you can pick up a map of the downtown city (very useful). A shuttle bus brings you downtown in about 5–10&nbsp;minutes (2½&nbsp;km). The dropoff point is on east side of ''rue de Paris'', just before ''rue Victor Hugo''. From this point, you can easily move about the downtown core. ===By plane=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Le Havre – Octeville Airport | alt={{IATA|LEH}} | url=http://www.lehavre.aeroport.fr/ | email= | address= | lat=49.533889 | long=0.088056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1409415 | content=Has no scheduled flights, but is still used for general aviation and the occasional charter to southern European resorts. }} The nearest airports offering scheduled international and domestic flights are at [[Deauville]] ({{IATA|DOL}}), [[Beauvais]] ({{IATA|BVA}}), and [[Paris Charles de Gaulle]] ({{IATA|CDG}}). ===By car=== Traffic in the southern approach to Le Havre has benefited from the construction of the huge '''[http://www.pontsnormandietancarville.fr/ Pont de Normandie]''' over the Seine estuary. However, whilst certainly impressive from an architectural standpoint, during busy summer weekends the entire structure can seem more like a car-park. Expect long delays (up to an hour) to cross the 4-km toll bridge (about €6). There is an Avis car hire agency at '''Gare du Havre''' (train station), on the corner of ''Cours de la République'' and Magellan Street. From City Hall, it's a 20-minute walk (1½&nbsp;km) east along ''Boulevard de Strasbourg''. ==Get around== The centre of town is easily covered on foot. A local bus service runs regularly around town. The ferry port and train station are a short walk out from the centre of town and buses run on these routes. Rent a bike for a few euros at the tourist office or at the bus parked along the beach during the season. ==See== [[File:Maison armateur 3.JPG|thumb|right|100px|Maison de l'armateur]] [[File:Church Saint-Vincent.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Church Saint-Vincent]] * The view of the port (''bassin du commerce'') with its lovely bridge and both the Volcano and steeple of St Joseph's church in the background. Nice both in the day or at night. On the north quay, the casino (gambling, fine restaurants, hotel, spa). * St Vincent district is an old district near the beach which didn't suffer too much from the terrible bombings that flattened the city in 1944 and in which 5,000 people died in the ruins in a few hours. The little church and the square around it evoke a village atmosphere in southern France. During the season, painters gather on the square and give an impression of "Montmartre". * '''Take the ''funiculaire''''' (cable car) for an easy climb to Le Havre's upper plateau. From the ''Hôtel de Ville'' (City Hall), it’s a 7-minute walk (600&nbsp;metres) along ''avenue René Coty'' to the lower terminal is located on ''rue Gustave-Flaubert'' (corner ''rue du Docteur-Vigné''). A one-way ticket costs €0.40. Once at the top, turn right from the upper terminal (heading east), along ''rue Félix-Faure'', another 7-minute walk (500&nbsp;metres) brings you to a superbly panoramic view of the beautiful city and its harbour. You can return down the ''Escalier Olivier-Senn'', then stroll through narrow historic streets, zig-zagging back to the city center. Returning to the lower terminal takes about 12&nbsp;minutes, all downhill. * {{see | name=Saint-Joseph church | alt=Église Saint-Joseph | url= | email= | address=Boulevard François Ier | lat=49.49088 | long=0.10116 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=St Joseph's Church was a key project designed by August Perret in the rebuilding of the city. Its tall tower is lined with coloured glass lending the interior a unique tranquility. }} * {{see | name=Town Hall | alt=Hôtel-de-ville | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.49389 | long=0.10784 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-08-16 | content=The town hall is situated on one of the largest squares in France. The interior has information on the city. It is possible to climb the tower for view of the lay out of the city. Showflat, designed by city designer August Perret, is now open for public viewing. }} * {{see | name=Malraux Museum | alt=Musée Malraux or MuMa | url=http://www.muma-lehavre.fr/en | email= | address=2 boulevard Clemenceau | lat=49.48499 | long=0.10262 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 19 62 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= M W-F 11:00-18:00, Sa Su 11:00-19:00 | price=€10 | lastedit=2016-08-16 | content=This museum houses the largest Impressionist collection in France outside of Paris. }} *[[File:Fçde prin nt.JPG|thumb|150x150px|Cathedral]]{{see | name=Oscar Niemeyer Cultural Centre | alt=Le Volcan | url=http://www.levolcan.com/ | email= | address=8 place Niemeyer | lat=49.4906 | long=0.1063 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-08-16 | content=Cultural Centre (the Volcano) designed by leading architect Oscar Niemeyer is located in the centre of town. One of the city's most iconic buildings. }} * {{see | name=Maison de l'Armateur | alt= | url=http://www.lehavre.fr/annuaire-des-equipements/maison-de-larmateur | email= | address= | lat=49.48691 | long=0.11282 | directions=(opposite the ferries) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily except Tu | price=€5 | lastedit=2016-08-16 | wikidata=Q3279654 | content=One of the few old houses which were not destroyed during World War II. A magnificent house of 5 floors, nicely decorated and furnished in the style of its construction (18th century), when it belonged to rich families. A very interesting visit especially if you also visit Auguste Perret's showflat in City Hall Square showing what was life was like in the 1950s. You will understand the complex history of the city. }} * {{see | name=Natural History Museum | alt=Muséum d'histoire naturelle | url=http://www.museum-lehavre.fr/ | email= | address=Place du Vieux Marché | lat=49.48779 | long=0.10907 | directions=near the cathedral | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Closed on Th morning and M 10:00-18:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2016-08-16 | content=In an old building which miraculously survived the terrible bombings on September 5, 1944. Interesting museum with a lot of activities for children. }} * {{see | name=Cathedrale Notre Dame | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.48705 | long=0.10833 | directions= | phone=+33 2 32 74 04 05 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2942295 | lastedit=2016-08-16 | content=Visit it and walk around it. You'll get a striking contrast between the 15th-century cathedral and the buildings constructed in the 1950s and 1960s around it. The foundations of the cathedral are lower than the other buildings because they were built on the ruins of the old town. }} ==Do== * Climb the '''tower of Hotel de Ville''' for an overview of August Perret's planned city. * Enjoy the '''beach''' in good weather (restaurants, bars, night life). * Relax in the glow of the unique '''St Joseph's Church'''. * Drive over the River Seine on the gorgeous bridge {{marker|type=do|name="Pont de Normandie"|lat=49.43058|long=0.27419}}. Then you will be in [[Honfleur]], one of Normandy's prettiest places. * Enjoy a walk in the posh residential area of '''Ste Adresse''' overlooking the Le Havre bay and enjoy nice views of the bay and the city * '''Visit the port''', whether on a boat or by bike: more information in many languages from the tourist office situated along the beach. * '''Rent a bike''' at the tourist office for a couple of euros and enjoy the seafront and the city centre at its best. You can also ride to Harfleur (eastern suburb) which is a lovely medieval town! Montivilliers, a few miles away is also worth a visit. Nice abbey and town center. * After the beach, enjoy a forest in the middle of the city: {{marker|type=do|name="forêt de Montgeon"|lat=49.51898|long=0.14385}}. * {{marker|type=do|name=[https://www.lehavre.fr/annuaire/les-jardins-suspendus Les jardins suspendus]|lat=49.50443|long=0.09412}} (fort de Sainte Adresse). Lovely walled garden and greenhouse in an old fort overlooking the city and the sea. Nice views! A nice walk on the walls! * '''Football:''' [http://www.hac-foot.com/ Le Havre AC] were promoted in 2023 and now play soccer in Ligue 1, the French top tier. Their home ground is {{marker|type=do|name=Stade Océane|lat=49.49906|long=0.16954}} (capacity 25,000) 5 km east of city centre. === Events === * Every year on the first Sunday after August 15, a traditional parade is organized in the city. Flowered carriages, people in costumes, floral floats, music, etc. * Every second year (the first one took place in 2006), Le Havre is home to a Contemporary Art Exhibition in the casino and everywhere in the streets of the city centre. * Every year, on the first weekend of September, Le Havre holds a "Fishermen's Festival" * In May is "Fest Yves" a traditional festival from Brittany in quartier St François. * Every July 14, traditional fireworks on the beach (at 23:00). ==Buy== * Normandy is famous for its '''cider''' and its '''cheese'''. Go to {{marker|type=buy|name="[https://www.leshallescentrales-lehavre.fr/ Les Halles]"|lat=49.49027|long=0.10448}} (south of the city centre near pedestrian aerea and Volcano), a covered market where you will find a selection of little shops selling excellent products (vegetables, cheese, meat, bakeries, wine, cider, and a small supermarket). * You can buy local products in one of the seasonal sheds along the beach and at the tourist office. * Chocolates "la tour" (the tower) {{marker|type=buy|name=[https://auzou-chocolat.fr/ Chocolaterie Auzou]|lat=49.49092|long=0.10536}} (near Espace Coty - Coty Mall). * Fresh fish from the fishermen (fish market) Opposite the ferry, in front of "maison de l'armateur" on "quai de l'ile" (island quay). * {{buy | name=Docks Vauban | alt= | url=http://www.docksvauban.com/ | email= | address=Quai Frissard | lat=49.49028 | long=0.12948 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=Shopping centre inside a 19th-century building: Adidas Originals, Amazon Locker, Brice, Carnet de vol, Eram, Esprit, Footlocker, H&M, Jules, La Grande Récré, La Halle, Levi's, Mango, Marionnaud, Micromania, New Yorker, Plein Ciel, Quiksilver, and Zara. }} * {{buy | name=Espace Coty | alt= | url=https://espace-coty.klepierre.fr/ | email= | address=22 Rue Casimir Périer | lat=49.49567 | long=0.11169 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content= }} ==Eat== Quartier St-François offers a great selections of different restaurants (style, nationality and prices). A lot of "crêperies" (French pancakes). A selection of fine restaurants is to be found everywhere in the city (the casino is one of the best "Le Havre des sens"). More information at the tourist office. ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Whoopies Diner | alt= | url= | email= | address=16 Rue Emile Zola | lat=49.4886880 | long=0.1038484 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Le Lafayette | alt= | url= | email= | address=6 Av. René Coty | lat=49.4949207 | long=0.1096819 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Brasserie }} * {{eat | name=Le Chiquito | alt= | url= | email= | address=47 Rue Raymond Guénot | lat=49.4951916 | long= 0.1036593 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Chez Sophie | alt= | url= | email= | address=51 Rue du Général Faidherbe | lat=49.4875326 | long= 0.1133280 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Crêperie Maryvonne | alt= | url= | email= | address=13 Rue Jean de la Fontaine | lat=49.4879858 | long= 0.1128452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Savory crêpes. }} * {{eat | name=Le Gavroche Le Havre | alt= | url= | email= | address=9 Pl. Danton | lat=49.4950056 | long= 0.1219218 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Brasserie }} * {{eat | name=Dai Duong | alt= | url= | email= | address=67 Rue Richelieu | lat=49.4893361 | long=0.1060180 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Vietnamese }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=La Taverne Paillette | alt= | url=https://taverne-paillette.com/ | email=contact@taverne-paillette.com | address=22 rue Georges Braque | lat=49.495388 | long=0.10319 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 41 31 50 | tollfree= | hours=12:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Papillotte | alt= | url= | email= | address=38 Pl. du Chillou | lat=49.4915327 | long=0.1109922 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=French cuisine }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant La Sirène | alt= | url= | email= | address=48 Rue Dr Cousture | lat=49.4956199 | long=0.0967456 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Petite Gourmandise | alt= | url= | email= | address=68 Rue des Drapiers | lat=49.4877164 | long=0.1101925 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Restaurant Jean-Luc Tartarin | alt= | url=http://www.jeanluc-tartarin.com/ | email= | address=73 avenue Foch | lat=49.49425 | long=0.103276 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 45 46 20 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€40-180 (Aug 2016) | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=two Michelin stars. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant Les Enfants Sages | alt= | url= | email= | address=20 Rue Gustave Lennier | lat=49.4888409 | long= 0.1082010 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} ===Sweet=== * {{eat | name=Chocolate Passion | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.49198 | long=0.10852 | directions=Near the Hotel de Ville | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Amazing chocolate store and tea salon where one can go to drink the best hot chocolate in the world. }} ==Drink== * Quartier St-François is also home to several bars * In the city centre, and the beach. ==Sleep== All sorts of hotels are to be found like in another French big city. ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Carmin | alt= | url=http://www.hotelcarmin.com/ | email= | address=15, rue Georges Braque | lat=49.49483 | long=0.10541 | directions= | phone=+33 2 32 74 08 20 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=€65-119/night | content=Decent and clean budget option near Hotel de Ville. Very friendly staff. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast costs extra. }} * {{sleep | name=ibis budget Le Havre Les Docks | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/3492/index.en.shtml | email= | address=38 Rue Dr Piasceki | lat=49.49423 | long=0.14289 | directions= | phone=+33 892680674 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From €33.50 | lastedit=2017-04-06 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Pasino du Havre | alt= | url=https://casino-lehavre.partouche.com/ | email= | address=Place Jules Ferry | lat=49.49147 | long=0.11243 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 26 00 00 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-09-05 | content=4 stars with nice spa. }} * {{sleep | name=Vent d'Ouest | alt= | url=https://www.ventdouest.fr/ | email=contact@ventdouest.fr | address=4 rue Caligny | lat=49.49139 | long=0.10081 | directions=opposite St Joseph's church | phone=+33 2 35 42 50 69 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-09-05 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel | alt= | url= | email=H5650@accor.com | address=20 cours La Fayette, Quai Colbert | lat=49.49149 | long=0.12504 | directions=Near the station | phone=+33 2 35 19 23 23 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-09-05 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Mercure | alt= | url= | email=H0341@accor.com | address=Chaussée Georges Pompidou | lat=49.49030 | long=0.11698 | directions=between the station and the city centre overlooking "bassin du commerce" | phone=+33 2 35 19 50 50 | tollfree= | fax=+33 2 35 19 50 99 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-09-05 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Art Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.art-hotel.fr/ | email=contact@art-hotel.fr | address=147 rue Louis Brindeau | lat=49.49124 | long=0.10654 | directions=opposite the Volcano in the pedestrian area | phone=+33 2 35 22 69 44 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-09-05 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Nomad | alt= | url=http://www.nomad-hotels.com/16-NOMAD-LE-HAVRE.htm | email=nomadlehavre@nomad-hotels.com | address=5 rue Magellan | lat=49.493179 | long=0.125546 | directions=near the train station | phone=+33 2 35 41 35 32 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/5650/index.en.shtml | email=H5650@accor.com | address=20 cours La Fayette - Quai Colbert | lat=49.491393 | long=0.123865 | directions=near the train station | phone=+33 2 25 35 05 56 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content= }} ==Cope== ===Consulates=== * {{flag|Greece}} {{listing | name=Greece | url= | email= | address=28 Rue de General de Gaulle, 76310 Sainte-Adresse | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 235-462-892 | tollfree= | fax=+33 235-467-316 | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Go next== You can reach from Le Havre any part of Normandy in any direction in less than 2 hr, including the famous [[Mont Saint-Michel]]. To the north: * [[Étretat]] and its exceptional natural site (beautiful white cliffs). (25&nbsp;km) * [[Fécamp]] and its "Bénédictine Palace" where the famous liquor is made and also has a nice little town with a long beach and a little port. (40&nbsp;km) * [[Veules les Roses]] is a charming village along the shortest river in France. Lovely houses and a nice beach. (65&nbsp;km) * [[Dieppe]] is an important fishing port and a lovely seaside resort. (100&nbsp;km) To the south: * [[Honfleur]] is a little 17th century harbour. (25&nbsp;km) * [[Beuvron en Auge]] is a lovely picturesque village. (35&nbsp;km) * [[Lisieux]] has a cathedral and basilica. (55&nbsp;km) To the west: * [[Caen]] has a World War II memorial (90&nbsp;km) * [[Bayeux]] has the medieval tapestry and is near the famous landing beaches (115&nbsp;km) To the east: * [[Harfleur]] and [[Montivilliers]] are eastern suburbs suburb of Le Havre. (15&nbsp;km) * [[Marais Vernier]] is a village of thatched cottages. (40&nbsp;km) * [[Pont Audemer]] is a nice little town with canals. (45&nbsp;km) {{routebox | image1=AS-prom-icon.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Image:Tabliczka E5.svg|25px]] [[Portsmouth]] {{flag|UK}} | minorl1= | directionr1=S | minorr1= | majorr1=END | image2=Autoroute française 131.svg | imagesize2=50 | directionl2=NW | majorl2=END | minorl2= | directionr2=SE | minorr2=merges with [[Image:Autoroute française 13.svg|Autoroute de Normandie|30px]] | majorr2=[[Rouen]] → [[Paris]] [[Image:Tabliczka E5.svg|25px]] }} {{geo|49.49000|0.100000}} {{IsPartOf|Seine-Maritime}} {{usablecity}} gt4qdjuurel14m4lqkepx87owl7fn31 0 19490 5090826 4951713 2025-07-10T13:40:10Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090826 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Chateau Gaillard banner.jpg}} '''Les Andelys''' is a town on the river Seine in the [[Upper Normandy]] region of northern [[France]], some 30 km northeast of [[Évreux]]. As the name might suggest, Les Andelys is divided into its two original components: Grand-Andely and Petit-Andely. ==Understand== ==Get in== ===By car=== From Paris: Option 1: Take the A86, then the A15, towards Cergy. Continue on the N14 towards Rouen. Exit after Les Thilliers-en-Vexin towards Les Andelys. Option 2: Take the A13 towards Rouen. Exit at Gaillon and go towards Les Andelys. From Rouen: Option 1: Take the N14 towards Paris. Exit after Grainville Option 1: Les Andelys. Option 2: Take the A13 towards Paris. Exit at Gaillon and follow towards Les Andelys. ===By train=== The nearest SNCF train stations are '''Vernon''' and '''Gaillon Aubevoye''', both on the Paris-Rouen line. For information call +33 (0)8 36 67 68 69. ==Get around== {{mapframe|layer=W}} ==See== * {{see | name=Château Gaillard | alt= | url=http://lesandelys.com/chateau-gaillard/ | email= | address= | lat=49.238128 | long=1.402753 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Château Gaillard | image=Donjonvuegénérale.jpg | wikidata=Q1090492 | content=This fortress was dreamed of, skillfully designed and built by the fiery Richard I of England, feudal Duke of Normandy, better known as Richard the Lionheart. Like its creator, the stronghold of Les Andelys calls to mind strength, power, invincibility. Yet, the virtually impregnable fortress would live only a few years, just like Richard, who was too confident in his talents as a warrior. }} * {{see | name=Petit Andely Saint Sauveur Church | alt= | url=http://lesandelys.com/church/ | email= | address= | lat=49.2422 | long=1.3998 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Petit Andelys 4.jpg | wikidata=Q22337599 | content=Building Chateau-Gaillard required the presence of over three thousands workers in les Andelys. The Saint-Sauveur church was built for them. Works started in 1198 and were finished four years later, in 1202, that is why the church has an outstanding unity. }} * {{see | name=Grand Andely Notre Dame Collegiate Church | alt= | url=http://lesandelys.com/church/ | email= | address= | lat=49.2475 | long=1.4222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Andelys droit-flamboyant.jpg | wikidata=Q2983939 | content=This is the very place where the Queen Clotilde, wife of Clovis, founded the first Norman abbey in 511. The construction of the present church started in the 13th century and spread over a period of 500 years. }} * {{see | name=Sainte Clotilde Miraculous Spring | alt= | url=http://lesandelys.com/sightseeing/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sainte Clotilde was the wife of Clovis, the first Christian king of the Franks. According to the legend, the spring appeared during the digging of foundations. Upon Sainte Clotilde prayers, water would have turned into wine to quench the thirst of the builders! }} * {{see | name=Half timbered house and belfry of la Madeleine | alt= | url=http://givernews.com/?2006/07/12/89-le-beffroi-des-andelys | email= | address=93 rue de la Sous-Prefecture | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Château de Gaillon | alt= | url=http://www.ville-gaillon.fr/pageLibre0001149f.html {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Allée de l'Ermitage, 27600 Gaillon | lat=49.161111 | long=1.329722 | directions=15 km from Les Andelys, via the D313 | phone=+33 2 32 53 86 40 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W&ndash;M 09:30&ndash;12:30, 14:00&ndash;18:00; Closed Tu | price=Adults: €4, children over 6 €3, under 6 free. Pay an extra €2 p.p. for a guided tour. | wikipedia=Château de Gaillon | image=Chateau-de-Gaillon-27.jpg | wikidata=Q1989567 | lastedit=2017-10-23 | content=Beautiful white Renaissance château, that is nowadays distinctly battered-looking, of which the gatehouse is the most impressive retained element. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=A Walk on the Seine Banks | alt= | url=http://lesandelys.com/sightseeing/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The town of Les Andelys lies in a tight bend of the Seine. The valley has been shaped by the river, forming white cliffs. A walk on the riverside offers beautiful views on the ruined castle Chateau-Gaillard, the old houses of Petit-Andely and the Seine valley. }} * {{do | name=A Boat tour on the Seine | alt= | url=http://giverny.org/cruises/liberte-seine/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Liberte Seine offers to explore the beautiful waterscapes of the Seine in the surroundings of Les Andelys, just as you like it. The boat has a maximum capacity of 6 passengers. It is perfect for a couple, a family or a party of friends. You can either choose one of the circuits of 45 min to 2 hr 45 min, or customise your tour, priced according to the duration. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat | name=La Chaine d Or | alt= | url=http://giverny.org/hotels/chainedor/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=French gastronomic restaurant listed in most major French restaurant guides. The building dates back from 1751 and is in a charming setting along The Seine river in the Petit-Andely centre with its half-timbered houses and its 12th century church. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Hotel=== * {{sleep | name=La Chaine d Or | alt= | url=http://giverny.org/hotels/chainedor/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A 3-star hotel restaurant dating back from 1751 located in a charming setting along The Seine river in the Petit-Andely center with its half-timbered houses and its 12th century church. The French gastronomic restaurant is listed in most major French restaurant guides. }} * {{sleep | name=Andelys Hotel | alt= | url=http://giverny.org/hotels/moderne/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A 2-star, modestly priced, clean, comfortable and friendly city centre hotel. (No restaurant). }} *4-star and 3-star hotels in the surroundings [http://les-andelys.com/hotel/] ===B&B=== * {{sleep | name=La Villa Alienor | alt= | url=http://giverny.org/hotels/alienor/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=At the foot of the stronghold Chateau-Gaillard, Nadine and Eric took up the challenge to turn a former hotel into a guest house. It was built in the 18th century as a post house. It has kept its horseshoe shape opening onto the River Seine, and its walls covered by virginia creeper. The five enlarged bedrooms are still lined along a corridor, but their attractive and imaginative decoration is indeed the one of a B&B. }} * {{sleep | name=La Haye Gaillard | alt= | url=http://giverny.org/hotels/hamot/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=This farm in business (no animal) is located in the countryside amid wheat, flax and colza fields cultivated by the owner. It was built in the 19th century by an engineer of Ferdinand de Lesseps, the creator of the Suez Canal, and has been renewed. It is a perfect place to stay if you are looking for a very quiet environment in the countryside. }} * {{sleep | name=Les Burons | alt= | url=http://giverny.org/hotels/lelievre/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=This B&B is located on the highs of Les Andelys. It is surrounded by a large flowered garden. The place is very quiet, fields and countryside begin just behind the estate. }} ===Self-catering=== * {{sleep | name=La Berverie | alt= | url=http://giverny.org/hotels/berverie/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=This old brick and half-timbered mansion house is in the centre of the old town of Les Andelys and its garden is overlooking the river Seine. Walking distance from Petit. }} * {{sleep | name=Camping Lisle de Trois Rois | alt= | url=http://www.camping-troisrois.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A reasonably (7 ha, 300 pitches) large camping/caravan/motor home site on the edge of Petit Andelys. It has the usual sanitation blocks, electricity and chemical disposal points. It also has a bar and snack restaurant, a petanque court, a children's play area and a swimming pool. It has pitches on the Seine and on a small lake. It is situated adjacent to Les Andelys bridge over the Seine, within easy walking distance of Petit Andelys. }} ==Connect== ==Go next== {{usablecity}} {{geo|49.2500|1.4167}} {{IsPartOf|Eure}} fn9kr33zo58auo424q8tr0klzabeyax 0 19551 5091162 5056900 2025-07-11T02:55:43Z DaGizza 162256 /* Go next */ 5091162 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|unesco=yes}} '''Levuka''' is a town on the eastern coast of the [[Fiji]]an island of [[Ovalau]], which is one of the [[Lomaiviti Islands]]. [[File:Pencil_Sea_Urchin,_Echinoidea.jpg|thumb|Pencil sea urchin on Ovalau Reef]]. == Understand == Levuka has a population of about 3000 people. The town was the capital of Fiji from 1874 until 1883 when the capital moved to Suva. Levuka was designated an historic town in 1989 and was inscribed to the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]] in 2013. Ovalau Island is a lush tropical volcanic island of about 100 km² surrounded by large coral reefs. It is the main island of the Lomaiviti Group which is made up of the islands of Namena, Makogai, Koro, Wakaya, Batiki, Nairai, Gau and Ovalau. The islands are the peaks of deep-sea volcanoes that became extinct millions of years ago. == Get in == ===By plane=== [http://www.northernair.com.fj/ Northern Air Services] fly to Levuka daily from Monday to Saturday, departing Nausori (Suva) Airport at 8AM for the 12-minute scenic flight to Levuka. They then return to Nausori at 8:40AM. Bookings can be made on line or by phoning +679 9958162. [[Fiji#Money|$]]75 one way The airstrip, approx. 40 minutes from the town, is on the western side of the island and is serviced by a local bus. ===By ferry=== *Patterson Brothers shipping (+679 3315 644, patterson@connect.com.fj) has a daily bus and ferry service from Suva to Levuka. The trip takes 4½ hours, and is recommended for its experience. *Goundar Shipping (+679 777 5475) offers a daily bus+ferry return trip from Suva and Levuka. == Get around == You can't hire bicycles, but walking around the island can be great. Or, hire a taxi for the day to drive you round. You could always try hopping on a 'carrier' (a pick-up truck/lorry with benches and a tarpaulin covering it) but beware, these don't run to a schedule so you may end up stranded if you're not careful! Your own two legs will help you see most of Levuka, going up the many, many steps to Delana School, or indeed the Peak. == See == Enjoy the history and the heritage of the town and the island. Hike up to the mountain peak overlooking the reefs and the Koro Sea. Explore the lush jungle, spot the Kula (dwarf parrot), Fiji Hawk, find the sleeping trees of the Fruit Bat. Call into the Levuka Community Centre and visit the town's small museum. Take coastal walks around the island, walk past Fijian villages, meet the Fijians. Walk up the 199 steps to Mission Hill and experience the fantastic panorama of the offshore islands and the Lekaleka Reef. Relax and enjoy a cold glass of beer at the Ovalau Club. Don't miss the sights of [[Arovudi]] including; ancient tribal areas, local villages, great white coral beaches and friendly people. == Do == Tours to all important historic sites are on offer, coastal walks, round the island tours, various hikes into the mountains, that is to The Peak or Epis tour to Lovoni, snorkeling to beautiful barrier reefs, exciting scuba diving trips, seasonal whale sightings, fishing trips, village tours, and island trips. == Buy == There are supermarkets and grocery stores stocked with "European" foods as well as beer, wines and spirits, bakeries, hardware & appliance stores. Local market vendors selling vegetable, fruit and fish. There are also few second hand clothes shop in Beach Street, which have cheap clothes, mainly from Australia. == Eat == *{{eat | name=Koro Makawa | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Seafood like grilled tuna steak, local Fijian cuisine or delicious pizzas are served for lunch and dinner. Daily special menus. }} The restaurant located right in town offers also a quick lunch menu from curries to fish and chips for eat in or take away. *{{eat | name=Paak Kum Loong | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-17.6837 | long=178.8347 | directions=south of the Fijian War Memorial on the main road | phone=+679 344 0059 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 7AM-3PM, 5-9PM; Su 7AM-3PM, 6-9PM | price= | lastedit=2022-08-04 | content=The Chinese Restaurant has a wide ranged menu with all kinds of Chinese meals, but you can also enjoy excellent Indian dishes. Located in the "center" of Levuka, you have a nice view from the 1st floor to watch the sea and the hustle and bustle on the street. Opened for lunch and dinner. }} *{{eat | name=Sea Site Wine & Dine Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-17.683 | long=178.835 | directions=on the main road | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Local restaurant, where you can enjoy Indian, European and Fijian dishes. Air-conditioned. }} *{{eat | name=Emilies Cafe | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Take your coffee with a fresh baked bread, vegetarian roti, pie or just relax with a drink in the open backyard of the bakery shop. }} *{{eat | name=Ovalau Holiday Resort | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Ovalau Holiday Resort restaurant is about 4 km out of town and offers a menu for everyone. Fresh seafood, European, Indian and traditional Fijian style meals }} == Drink == *{{drink | name=Koro Makawa Club | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Just behind the restaurant is a nightclub for locals and tourists. The staff are very friendly and welcoming to foreigners and drinks are well priced. }} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Royal Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.royallevuka.com | email=Royal@connect.com.fj | address= | lat=-17.68066 | long=178.83389 | directions= | phone=+679 3440024 | tollfree= | fax=+679 3440174 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Mary's Holiday Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Beach street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+679 3440013 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Levuka Homestay | alt= | url= | email=levukahomestay@connect.com.fj | address=Church street | lat=-17.67972 | long=178.83265 | directions= | phone=+679 3440777 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=New Mavida Lodge | alt= | url= | email=newmavidalodge@connect.com.fj | address=Beach street | lat=-17.6787 | long=178.8338 | directions= | phone=+679 344 0447 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dormitory: $40. Rooms $95+ | content=Dormitory and hotel rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Gun Rock Cottage | alt= | url= | email=cottage@owlfiji.com | address=Beach street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+679 3440166 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Oniviro Settlement. }} == Go next == Levuka is a great base to explore Ovalau Island or some of the surrounding islands. *'''[http://www.owlfiji.com/epi.htm Epi's]''' midland tour is a good one. Epi leads you up, and then down into the volcanic crater to visit a small village called Lovoni. Ask for Epi in Levuka, he's not hard to find. *'''[http://www.owlfiji.com/bobosfarm.htm Bobo´s Farm]{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' on a riverbank surrounded by rainforest in the Rukuruku Valley on the west side of Ovalau. If you want to experience the real rural Fiji, fun, adventures and the sound of the jungle at dusk in a warm welcoming Fijian hospitality. *'''[http://www.owlfiji.com/silana.htm Silana Village]''' Silana offers Fijian hospitality in modern comfortable bure accommodation. On the beach, 3 minutes walk from the village, but close enough to become part of the village, sharing their meals and way of life. *'''[http://www.owlfiji.com/caqalai.htm Caqalai Island]''' Take a daytrip to Caqalai, a beautiful coral island run by the Methodist Church and offering simple bure accommodation. White sandy beach all around the island, with good snorkeling just a few meters offshore. *'''[http://www.owlfiji.com/leleuvia.htm Leleuvia Island]''' Larger but just as beautiful as Caqelai, Leleuvia offers day trips as well as great value overnight facilities. Transportation to Leleuvia is available from both Levuka and Suva. *'''[http://www.owlfiji.com/lostisland.htm Lost Island]''' is on the island of Yanuca Lailai, south of Ovalau Island. It's an uninhabited 72-acre big, volcanic rock, limestone island with an amazing nature. The coastline with mangrove, volcanic rock cliffs and beaches surrounds an abounded jungle. Its totally off the main tourist track and its a hiding place to get away from the busy world and live a "Robinson Crusoe". Daytrips or bures for overnight stays. *'''[http://www.naiganiresort.com Naigani Island Resort]{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' Island resort, accommodation in 2-bedroom bungalows. Swimming pool, bar, restaurant, golf, scuba diving, game fishing, kayaking, hiking. {{IsPartOf|Ovalau}} {{usablecity}} {{geo|-17.68401389|178.8401278}} 4eyyr2pjpzzaswa4o3ubc7ys79x99lt 0 19691 5090959 5062337 2025-07-10T16:45:26Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Drink */ Added listing for Reservation Alley - Added coffee place 5090959 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lima-ohio-banner-01.jpg|caption=|pgname=Lima}} '''[https://www.visitgreaterlima.com/ Lima]''' is a city in [[Allen County]], [[Northwest Ohio]] and is the county seat of Allen County. ==Understand== [[File:Lima public square, circa 1921.jpg|thumb|Lima in 1921]] Though the town shares its name with the capital of Peru, it is pronounced 'Lye-mah' thanks to the local vernacular. Founded in the 1830s, Lima became an oil boom town in the late 1800s. The city flourished as an industrial town until the 1970s, when many industries began to leave as part of the Rust Belt decline that affected much of the Midwest. This is evidenced by the sheer number of abandoned factories and warehouses in the city. Yet, Lima remains prominent in the area as a hub for business and local culture. ==Get in== {{mapframe|40.742|-84.106|zoom=12}} {{mapshape}} ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Lima Allen County Airport | alt={{IATA|AOH}} | url=http://allencountyairport.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.708333 | long=-84.0275 | directions={{mi|5}} southeast of the city center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lima Allen County Airport | wikidata=Q6548793 | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=A [[General aviation]] airport. }} Lima is about a 1-hour drive from Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}), and a 2-hour drive from [[Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport|Detroit Metro Airport]] ({{IATA|DTW}}). ===By car=== From the north or south, Lima is easily accessible from I-75, exits 124, 125 and 127. From the east, Lima can be accessed from State Route 81 or U.S. 30 to I-75 south. From the west, one can take U.S. 30 to State Route 309. ==Get around== [[File:Lima public square.jpg|thumb|Public Square]] In the city center, the two main hubs are Market Street (running east and west) and Main Street (running north and south). The two streets meet at the center of town, in a small area known as Town Square. It is here that most downtown businesses are, and where weekly "Rally in the Square" events take place during the summer. The yearly "Square Fair" also takes place here in early August. In the main business district outside of downtown (known as 'Westgate'), main hubs are Elida road (running northwest to southeast) and Cable Road (running North and South). The majority of activities can be found in this area of town, about {{mi|5}} northwest of downtown. Most restaurants, shopping, activities and the Lima Mall are in this area. If you take Market Street east out of town it will become Bellefontaine (pronounced 'Bell-fountain') Street, and you will find another business district (known as 'Eastgate') similar to that near Elida/Cable Roads. This is where I-75 exit 125 meets the city, and the Allen County Fairgrounds are about a mile east of this stretch of businesses on Bellefontaine. * {{listing | type=go | name=Rotary Riverwalk | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.7375 | long=-84.0989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-11 | content=A pedestrian and bike path that goes from Heritage Park in the southern part of the city to downtown at Schoonover Park. }} ==See== [[File:Metropolitan_Block_in_Lima_low_resolution.jpg|thumb|The Metropolitan Block]] *{{see | name=Allen County Museum | alt= | url=https://www.allencountymuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.740278 | long=-84.116111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Allen County Museum | image=Museum Front crp.jpg | wikidata=Q4731597 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=The Allen County Museum is a delightful treat. While focusing on Lima's pioneer days, the lower level celebrates the glory days of Lima, prior to the discovery of Texas Oil. The museum also includes an exhibit on John Dillinger, who escaped the county jail. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Veterans Freedom Flag Monument | alt= | url=https://uawfreedomflag.com/ | email= | address=1191 Buckeye Rd | lat=40.70855 | long=-84.12910 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=A monument to veterans stylized as an American flag made out of brick columns. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=James A. Rhodes State College | alt= | url=https://www.rhodesstate.edu/ | email= | address=4240 Campus Dr | lat=40.7383 | long=-84.0277 | directions= | phone=+1-419-995-8320 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=James A. Rhodes State College | wikidata=Q6128246 | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=A state college in Lima Ohio. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Ohio State University, Lima Campus | alt= | url=https://lima.osu.edu/ | email= | address=4240 Campus Dr | lat=40.7383 | long=-84.0277 | directions= | phone=+1-567-242-7272 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ohio State University, Lima Campus | wikidata=Q7080960 | lastedit=2019-08-12 | content=Ohio State University's Lima Branch. This campus frequently hosts open events relating to the arts and STEM. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Nickel Plate 779 | alt=Lincoln Park | url=https://www.cityhall.lima.oh.us/Facilities/Facility/Details/10 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Nickel Plate 779 | image=Baldwin Berkshire-type No. 779 built for the Nickel Plate.jpg | wikidata=Q7028260 | lastedit=2019-08-12 | content=A preserved steam locomotive, and the final steam locomotive built by the now defunct Lima Locomotive Works. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Allen County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.742778 | long=-84.105556 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Allen County Courthouse (Ohio) | image=Lima-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4731596 | lastedit=2019-08-12 | content=A historic sandstone courthouse built in 1881 using the second empire architectural style. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Lima Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.740167 | long=-84.091306 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lima Stadium | wikidata=Q6548835 | lastedit=2017-07-10 | content=A historic stadium where Lima's sports teams play. }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Allen County Fair | alt= | url=https://allencofair.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{listing | type=buy | name=Lima Mall | alt= | url=https://limamall.com/ | email= | address=2400 Elida Rd | lat=40.7667 | long=-84.15 | directions= | phone=+1 419-331-6255 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lima Mall | image=Lima mall.jpg | wikidata=Q6548818 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Eat== Most restaurants in Lima are of the chain variety, either fast food or sit-down. There is at least one of most major types of restaurant (Texas Roadhouse, IHOP, Applebee's, Olive Garden, Panera Bread, etc.) in town, but there are a few local restaurants worth visiting. * {{listing | type=eat | name=Kewpee | alt= | url=https://kewpeehamburgers.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.740556 | long=-84.105556 | directions=three locations: one by the highway at Bellefontaine & Kibby, one downtown at Market & Elizabeth, and one in Westgate at Cable & Allentown | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kewpee | image=Kewpee Restaurant.JPG | wikidata=Q6397963 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Even if you are just passing through, a visit to Lima is not complete without a burger from Kewpee. Founded as a fast food chain in the 1920s, most Kewpee restaurants closed decades later except for the family-owned franchises in Lima, which retain their nostalgic feel. The burgers, fresh from local meat, are spectacular and well worth a stop off the highway. }} * {{eat | name=Yamato West | alt= | url=https://yamatowest.com/ | email= | address=2315 Elida Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Cable & Elida | phone=+1 567-371-3210 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=It is like your friendly hibachi neighborhood grill. }} * {{eat | name=The Milano Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near Cable & Elida | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-10 | content=Italian }} * {{eat | name=Western Sizzlin of Lima | alt= | url=https://westernsizzlinoflima.com/ | email= | address=2721 Elida Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-331-6644 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content=A local steakhouse. }} ==Drink== * {{listing | type=drink | name=The Met | alt= | url=https://www.themet306.com/ | email=info@themet306.com | address=306 N Main St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-999-9463 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Reservation Alley | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.412639635132044&type=3&rdid=biCchDvY0zZMxz2P&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2FcQNTpSG9jVSUkWi1%2F#https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2FcQNTpSG9jVSUkWi1%2F# | email= | address=2290 Shawnee Rd in back | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 289-5861 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Local coffee shop with frozen, iced, and hot options. Has food and sugar free options available. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Wingate_by_Wyndham_in_Lima.jpg|thumb|A hotel in Lima]] *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate Inn Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat= | long= | directions=near the airport and university | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Upscale accomoation near downtown. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hampton Inn Lima | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/limohhx-hampton-lima/ | email= | address=1933 Roschman Ave | lat=40.7269 | long=-84.0727 | directions= | phone=+1-419-225-8300 | tollfree= | checkin=4PM | checkout=noon | price=$134 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Lima | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/lima/aohli/hoteldetail | email= | address=803 S Leonard Ave | lat=40.72985 | long=-84.07754 | directions= | phone=+1 419-879-4000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=$139 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Lima Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.limalibrary.com/ | email= | address=650 W Market St | lat=40.7406 | long=-84.1138 | directions= | phone=+1 419-228-5113 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-28 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Lima Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.74171 | long=-84.10888 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-11 | content= }} ==Go next== * [[Findlay]] * [[Kenton]] {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Bluffton (Ohio)|Bluffton]] ← Jct [[Delphos (Ohio)|W]] [[File:US 30.svg|18px]] [[Ada (Ohio)|E]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Wapakoneta]] | image2=OH-309.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=Ends at [[File:US 30.svg|18px]] | minorl2=[[Delphos (Ohio)|Delphos]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Mansfield (Ohio)|Mansfield]] | minorr2=[[Ada (Ohio)|Ada]] }} {{geo|40.740833|-84.115000}} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{usablecity}} dqy1189i7zq07k0hofg8sq6pjs5ek2n 5090965 5090959 2025-07-10T16:54:01Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Drink */ phone number formatting per [[wv:phone]] 5090965 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lima-ohio-banner-01.jpg|caption=|pgname=Lima}} '''[https://www.visitgreaterlima.com/ Lima]''' is a city in [[Allen County]], [[Northwest Ohio]] and is the county seat of Allen County. ==Understand== [[File:Lima public square, circa 1921.jpg|thumb|Lima in 1921]] Though the town shares its name with the capital of Peru, it is pronounced 'Lye-mah' thanks to the local vernacular. Founded in the 1830s, Lima became an oil boom town in the late 1800s. The city flourished as an industrial town until the 1970s, when many industries began to leave as part of the Rust Belt decline that affected much of the Midwest. This is evidenced by the sheer number of abandoned factories and warehouses in the city. Yet, Lima remains prominent in the area as a hub for business and local culture. ==Get in== {{mapframe|40.742|-84.106|zoom=12}} {{mapshape}} ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Lima Allen County Airport | alt={{IATA|AOH}} | url=http://allencountyairport.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.708333 | long=-84.0275 | directions={{mi|5}} southeast of the city center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lima Allen County Airport | wikidata=Q6548793 | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=A [[General aviation]] airport. }} Lima is about a 1-hour drive from Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}), and a 2-hour drive from [[Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport|Detroit Metro Airport]] ({{IATA|DTW}}). ===By car=== From the north or south, Lima is easily accessible from I-75, exits 124, 125 and 127. From the east, Lima can be accessed from State Route 81 or U.S. 30 to I-75 south. From the west, one can take U.S. 30 to State Route 309. ==Get around== [[File:Lima public square.jpg|thumb|Public Square]] In the city center, the two main hubs are Market Street (running east and west) and Main Street (running north and south). The two streets meet at the center of town, in a small area known as Town Square. It is here that most downtown businesses are, and where weekly "Rally in the Square" events take place during the summer. The yearly "Square Fair" also takes place here in early August. In the main business district outside of downtown (known as 'Westgate'), main hubs are Elida road (running northwest to southeast) and Cable Road (running North and South). The majority of activities can be found in this area of town, about {{mi|5}} northwest of downtown. Most restaurants, shopping, activities and the Lima Mall are in this area. If you take Market Street east out of town it will become Bellefontaine (pronounced 'Bell-fountain') Street, and you will find another business district (known as 'Eastgate') similar to that near Elida/Cable Roads. This is where I-75 exit 125 meets the city, and the Allen County Fairgrounds are about a mile east of this stretch of businesses on Bellefontaine. * {{listing | type=go | name=Rotary Riverwalk | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.7375 | long=-84.0989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-11 | content=A pedestrian and bike path that goes from Heritage Park in the southern part of the city to downtown at Schoonover Park. }} ==See== [[File:Metropolitan_Block_in_Lima_low_resolution.jpg|thumb|The Metropolitan Block]] *{{see | name=Allen County Museum | alt= | url=https://www.allencountymuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.740278 | long=-84.116111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Allen County Museum | image=Museum Front crp.jpg | wikidata=Q4731597 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=The Allen County Museum is a delightful treat. While focusing on Lima's pioneer days, the lower level celebrates the glory days of Lima, prior to the discovery of Texas Oil. The museum also includes an exhibit on John Dillinger, who escaped the county jail. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Veterans Freedom Flag Monument | alt= | url=https://uawfreedomflag.com/ | email= | address=1191 Buckeye Rd | lat=40.70855 | long=-84.12910 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=A monument to veterans stylized as an American flag made out of brick columns. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=James A. Rhodes State College | alt= | url=https://www.rhodesstate.edu/ | email= | address=4240 Campus Dr | lat=40.7383 | long=-84.0277 | directions= | phone=+1-419-995-8320 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=James A. Rhodes State College | wikidata=Q6128246 | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=A state college in Lima Ohio. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Ohio State University, Lima Campus | alt= | url=https://lima.osu.edu/ | email= | address=4240 Campus Dr | lat=40.7383 | long=-84.0277 | directions= | phone=+1-567-242-7272 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ohio State University, Lima Campus | wikidata=Q7080960 | lastedit=2019-08-12 | content=Ohio State University's Lima Branch. This campus frequently hosts open events relating to the arts and STEM. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Nickel Plate 779 | alt=Lincoln Park | url=https://www.cityhall.lima.oh.us/Facilities/Facility/Details/10 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Nickel Plate 779 | image=Baldwin Berkshire-type No. 779 built for the Nickel Plate.jpg | wikidata=Q7028260 | lastedit=2019-08-12 | content=A preserved steam locomotive, and the final steam locomotive built by the now defunct Lima Locomotive Works. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Allen County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.742778 | long=-84.105556 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Allen County Courthouse (Ohio) | image=Lima-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4731596 | lastedit=2019-08-12 | content=A historic sandstone courthouse built in 1881 using the second empire architectural style. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Lima Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.740167 | long=-84.091306 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lima Stadium | wikidata=Q6548835 | lastedit=2017-07-10 | content=A historic stadium where Lima's sports teams play. }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Allen County Fair | alt= | url=https://allencofair.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{listing | type=buy | name=Lima Mall | alt= | url=https://limamall.com/ | email= | address=2400 Elida Rd | lat=40.7667 | long=-84.15 | directions= | phone=+1 419-331-6255 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lima Mall | image=Lima mall.jpg | wikidata=Q6548818 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Eat== Most restaurants in Lima are of the chain variety, either fast food or sit-down. There is at least one of most major types of restaurant (Texas Roadhouse, IHOP, Applebee's, Olive Garden, Panera Bread, etc.) in town, but there are a few local restaurants worth visiting. * {{listing | type=eat | name=Kewpee | alt= | url=https://kewpeehamburgers.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.740556 | long=-84.105556 | directions=three locations: one by the highway at Bellefontaine & Kibby, one downtown at Market & Elizabeth, and one in Westgate at Cable & Allentown | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kewpee | image=Kewpee Restaurant.JPG | wikidata=Q6397963 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Even if you are just passing through, a visit to Lima is not complete without a burger from Kewpee. Founded as a fast food chain in the 1920s, most Kewpee restaurants closed decades later except for the family-owned franchises in Lima, which retain their nostalgic feel. The burgers, fresh from local meat, are spectacular and well worth a stop off the highway. }} * {{eat | name=Yamato West | alt= | url=https://yamatowest.com/ | email= | address=2315 Elida Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Cable & Elida | phone=+1 567-371-3210 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=It is like your friendly hibachi neighborhood grill. }} * {{eat | name=The Milano Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near Cable & Elida | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-10 | content=Italian }} * {{eat | name=Western Sizzlin of Lima | alt= | url=https://westernsizzlinoflima.com/ | email= | address=2721 Elida Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-331-6644 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content=A local steakhouse. }} ==Drink== * {{listing | type=drink | name=The Met | alt= | url=https://www.themet306.com/ | email=info@themet306.com | address=306 N Main St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-999-9463 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Reservation Alley | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.412639635132044&type=3&rdid=biCchDvY0zZMxz2P&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2FcQNTpSG9jVSUkWi1%2F#https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2FcQNTpSG9jVSUkWi1%2F# | email= | address=2290 Shawnee Rd in back | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 567-289-5861 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Local coffee shop with frozen, iced, and hot options. Has food and sugar free options available. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Wingate_by_Wyndham_in_Lima.jpg|thumb|A hotel in Lima]] *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate Inn Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat= | long= | directions=near the airport and university | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Upscale accomoation near downtown. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hampton Inn Lima | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/limohhx-hampton-lima/ | email= | address=1933 Roschman Ave | lat=40.7269 | long=-84.0727 | directions= | phone=+1-419-225-8300 | tollfree= | checkin=4PM | checkout=noon | price=$134 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Lima | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/lima/aohli/hoteldetail | email= | address=803 S Leonard Ave | lat=40.72985 | long=-84.07754 | directions= | phone=+1 419-879-4000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=$139 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Lima Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.limalibrary.com/ | email= | address=650 W Market St | lat=40.7406 | long=-84.1138 | directions= | phone=+1 419-228-5113 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-28 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Lima Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.74171 | long=-84.10888 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-11 | content= }} ==Go next== * [[Findlay]] * [[Kenton]] {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Bluffton (Ohio)|Bluffton]] ← Jct [[Delphos (Ohio)|W]] [[File:US 30.svg|18px]] [[Ada (Ohio)|E]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Wapakoneta]] | image2=OH-309.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=Ends at [[File:US 30.svg|18px]] | minorl2=[[Delphos (Ohio)|Delphos]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Mansfield (Ohio)|Mansfield]] | minorr2=[[Ada (Ohio)|Ada]] }} {{geo|40.740833|-84.115000}} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{usablecity}} 94x1cdnxmntk20rudcye5bggt9tzdu2 5090967 5090965 2025-07-10T16:55:34Z Ground Zero 1423298 We no longer put external links in the first sentence. Improve lead paragraph 5090967 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lima-ohio-banner-01.jpg|caption=|pgname=Lima}} '''Lima''' is a city in [[Allen County]], [[Northwest Ohio]] and is the county seat of Allen County. Lima remains prominent in the area as a hub for business and local culture. ==Understand== [[File:Lima public square, circa 1921.jpg|thumb|Lima in 1921]] Though the town shares its name with the capital of Peru, it is pronounced 'Lye-mah' thanks to the local vernacular. Founded in the 1830s, Lima became an oil boom town in the late 1800s. The city flourished as an industrial town until the 1970s, when many industries began to leave as part of the Rust Belt decline that affected much of the Midwest. This is evidenced by the number of abandoned factories and warehouses in the city. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitgreaterlima.com/ Visit Greater Lima] website ==Get in== {{mapframe|40.742|-84.106|zoom=12}} {{mapshape}} ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Lima Allen County Airport | alt={{IATA|AOH}} | url=http://allencountyairport.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.708333 | long=-84.0275 | directions={{mi|5}} southeast of the city center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lima Allen County Airport | wikidata=Q6548793 | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=A [[General aviation]] airport. }} Lima is about a 1-hour drive from Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}), and a 2-hour drive from [[Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport|Detroit Metro Airport]] ({{IATA|DTW}}). ===By car=== From the north or south, Lima is easily accessible from I-75, exits 124, 125 and 127. From the east, Lima can be accessed from State Route 81 or U.S. 30 to I-75 south. From the west, one can take U.S. 30 to State Route 309. ==Get around== [[File:Lima public square.jpg|thumb|Public Square]] In the city center, the two main hubs are Market Street (running east and west) and Main Street (running north and south). The two streets meet at the center of town, in a small area known as Town Square. It is here that most downtown businesses are, and where weekly "Rally in the Square" events take place during the summer. The yearly "Square Fair" also takes place here in early August. In the main business district outside of downtown (known as 'Westgate'), main hubs are Elida road (running northwest to southeast) and Cable Road (running North and South). The majority of activities can be found in this area of town, about {{mi|5}} northwest of downtown. Most restaurants, shopping, activities and the Lima Mall are in this area. If you take Market Street east out of town it will become Bellefontaine (pronounced 'Bell-fountain') Street, and you will find another business district (known as 'Eastgate') similar to that near Elida/Cable Roads. This is where I-75 exit 125 meets the city, and the Allen County Fairgrounds are about a mile east of this stretch of businesses on Bellefontaine. * {{listing | type=go | name=Rotary Riverwalk | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.7375 | long=-84.0989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-11 | content=A pedestrian and bike path that goes from Heritage Park in the southern part of the city to downtown at Schoonover Park. }} ==See== [[File:Metropolitan_Block_in_Lima_low_resolution.jpg|thumb|The Metropolitan Block]] *{{see | name=Allen County Museum | alt= | url=https://www.allencountymuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.740278 | long=-84.116111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Allen County Museum | image=Museum Front crp.jpg | wikidata=Q4731597 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=The Allen County Museum is a delightful treat. While focusing on Lima's pioneer days, the lower level celebrates the glory days of Lima, prior to the discovery of Texas Oil. The museum also includes an exhibit on John Dillinger, who escaped the county jail. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Veterans Freedom Flag Monument | alt= | url=https://uawfreedomflag.com/ | email= | address=1191 Buckeye Rd | lat=40.70855 | long=-84.12910 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=A monument to veterans stylized as an American flag made out of brick columns. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=James A. Rhodes State College | alt= | url=https://www.rhodesstate.edu/ | email= | address=4240 Campus Dr | lat=40.7383 | long=-84.0277 | directions= | phone=+1-419-995-8320 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=James A. Rhodes State College | wikidata=Q6128246 | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=A state college in Lima Ohio. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Ohio State University, Lima Campus | alt= | url=https://lima.osu.edu/ | email= | address=4240 Campus Dr | lat=40.7383 | long=-84.0277 | directions= | phone=+1-567-242-7272 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ohio State University, Lima Campus | wikidata=Q7080960 | lastedit=2019-08-12 | content=Ohio State University's Lima Branch. This campus frequently hosts open events relating to the arts and STEM. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Nickel Plate 779 | alt=Lincoln Park | url=https://www.cityhall.lima.oh.us/Facilities/Facility/Details/10 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Nickel Plate 779 | image=Baldwin Berkshire-type No. 779 built for the Nickel Plate.jpg | wikidata=Q7028260 | lastedit=2019-08-12 | content=A preserved steam locomotive, and the final steam locomotive built by the now defunct Lima Locomotive Works. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Allen County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.742778 | long=-84.105556 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Allen County Courthouse (Ohio) | image=Lima-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4731596 | lastedit=2019-08-12 | content=A historic sandstone courthouse built in 1881 using the second empire architectural style. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Lima Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.740167 | long=-84.091306 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lima Stadium | wikidata=Q6548835 | lastedit=2017-07-10 | content=A historic stadium where Lima's sports teams play. }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Allen County Fair | alt= | url=https://allencofair.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{listing | type=buy | name=Lima Mall | alt= | url=https://limamall.com/ | email= | address=2400 Elida Rd | lat=40.7667 | long=-84.15 | directions= | phone=+1 419-331-6255 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lima Mall | image=Lima mall.jpg | wikidata=Q6548818 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Eat== Most restaurants in Lima are of the chain variety, either fast food or sit-down. There is at least one of most major types of restaurant (Texas Roadhouse, IHOP, Applebee's, Olive Garden, Panera Bread, etc.) in town, but there are a few local restaurants worth visiting. * {{listing | type=eat | name=Kewpee | alt= | url=https://kewpeehamburgers.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.740556 | long=-84.105556 | directions=three locations: one by the highway at Bellefontaine & Kibby, one downtown at Market & Elizabeth, and one in Westgate at Cable & Allentown | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kewpee | image=Kewpee Restaurant.JPG | wikidata=Q6397963 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Even if you are just passing through, a visit to Lima is not complete without a burger from Kewpee. Founded as a fast food chain in the 1920s, most Kewpee restaurants closed decades later except for the family-owned franchises in Lima, which retain their nostalgic feel. The burgers, fresh from local meat, are spectacular and well worth a stop off the highway. }} * {{eat | name=Yamato West | alt= | url=https://yamatowest.com/ | email= | address=2315 Elida Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Cable & Elida | phone=+1 567-371-3210 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=It is like your friendly hibachi neighborhood grill. }} * {{eat | name=The Milano Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near Cable & Elida | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-10 | content=Italian }} * {{eat | name=Western Sizzlin of Lima | alt= | url=https://westernsizzlinoflima.com/ | email= | address=2721 Elida Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-331-6644 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content=A local steakhouse. }} ==Drink== * {{listing | type=drink | name=The Met | alt= | url=https://www.themet306.com/ | email=info@themet306.com | address=306 N Main St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-999-9463 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Reservation Alley | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.412639635132044&type=3&rdid=biCchDvY0zZMxz2P&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2FcQNTpSG9jVSUkWi1%2F#https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2FcQNTpSG9jVSUkWi1%2F# | email= | address=2290 Shawnee Rd in back | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 567-289-5861 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Local coffee shop with frozen, iced, and hot options. Has food and sugar free options available. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Wingate_by_Wyndham_in_Lima.jpg|thumb|A hotel in Lima]] *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate Inn Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat= | long= | directions=near the airport and university | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Upscale accomoation near downtown. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hampton Inn Lima | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/limohhx-hampton-lima/ | email= | address=1933 Roschman Ave | lat=40.7269 | long=-84.0727 | directions= | phone=+1-419-225-8300 | tollfree= | checkin=4PM | checkout=noon | price=$134 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Lima | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/lima/aohli/hoteldetail | email= | address=803 S Leonard Ave | lat=40.72985 | long=-84.07754 | directions= | phone=+1 419-879-4000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=$139 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Lima Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.limalibrary.com/ | email= | address=650 W Market St | lat=40.7406 | long=-84.1138 | directions= | phone=+1 419-228-5113 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-28 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Lima Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.74171 | long=-84.10888 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-11 | content= }} ==Go next== * [[Findlay]] * [[Kenton]] {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Bluffton (Ohio)|Bluffton]] ← Jct [[Delphos (Ohio)|W]] [[File:US 30.svg|18px]] [[Ada (Ohio)|E]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Wapakoneta]] | image2=OH-309.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=Ends at [[File:US 30.svg|18px]] | minorl2=[[Delphos (Ohio)|Delphos]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Mansfield (Ohio)|Mansfield]] | minorr2=[[Ada (Ohio)|Ada]] }} {{geo|40.740833|-84.115000}} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{usablecity}} ffa7c7a2wc0v2eppp6jnsnnabqvh8w6 5090968 5090967 2025-07-10T16:55:39Z Ibaman 195012 [[WV:External links]]: would you please remove the redirecting junk from the link before posting, thank you 5090968 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lima-ohio-banner-01.jpg|caption=|pgname=Lima}} '''Lima''' is a city in [[Allen County]], [[Northwest Ohio]] and is the county seat of Allen County. Lima remains prominent in the area as a hub for business and local culture. ==Understand== [[File:Lima public square, circa 1921.jpg|thumb|Lima in 1921]] Though the town shares its name with the capital of Peru, it is pronounced 'Lye-mah' thanks to the local vernacular. Founded in the 1830s, Lima became an oil boom town in the late 1800s. The city flourished as an industrial town until the 1970s, when many industries began to leave as part of the Rust Belt decline that affected much of the Midwest. This is evidenced by the number of abandoned factories and warehouses in the city. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.visitgreaterlima.com/ Visit Greater Lima] website ==Get in== {{mapframe|40.742|-84.106|zoom=12}} {{mapshape}} ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Lima Allen County Airport | alt={{IATA|AOH}} | url=http://allencountyairport.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.708333 | long=-84.0275 | directions={{mi|5}} southeast of the city center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lima Allen County Airport | wikidata=Q6548793 | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=A [[General aviation]] airport. }} Lima is about a 1-hour drive from Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}), and a 2-hour drive from [[Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport|Detroit Metro Airport]] ({{IATA|DTW}}). ===By car=== From the north or south, Lima is easily accessible from I-75, exits 124, 125 and 127. From the east, Lima can be accessed from State Route 81 or U.S. 30 to I-75 south. From the west, one can take U.S. 30 to State Route 309. ==Get around== [[File:Lima public square.jpg|thumb|Public Square]] In the city center, the two main hubs are Market Street (running east and west) and Main Street (running north and south). The two streets meet at the center of town, in a small area known as Town Square. It is here that most downtown businesses are, and where weekly "Rally in the Square" events take place during the summer. The yearly "Square Fair" also takes place here in early August. In the main business district outside of downtown (known as 'Westgate'), main hubs are Elida road (running northwest to southeast) and Cable Road (running North and South). The majority of activities can be found in this area of town, about {{mi|5}} northwest of downtown. Most restaurants, shopping, activities and the Lima Mall are in this area. If you take Market Street east out of town it will become Bellefontaine (pronounced 'Bell-fountain') Street, and you will find another business district (known as 'Eastgate') similar to that near Elida/Cable Roads. This is where I-75 exit 125 meets the city, and the Allen County Fairgrounds are about a mile east of this stretch of businesses on Bellefontaine. * {{listing | type=go | name=Rotary Riverwalk | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.7375 | long=-84.0989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-11 | content=A pedestrian and bike path that goes from Heritage Park in the southern part of the city to downtown at Schoonover Park. }} ==See== [[File:Metropolitan_Block_in_Lima_low_resolution.jpg|thumb|The Metropolitan Block]] *{{see | name=Allen County Museum | alt= | url=https://www.allencountymuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.740278 | long=-84.116111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Allen County Museum | image=Museum Front crp.jpg | wikidata=Q4731597 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=The Allen County Museum is a delightful treat. While focusing on Lima's pioneer days, the lower level celebrates the glory days of Lima, prior to the discovery of Texas Oil. The museum also includes an exhibit on John Dillinger, who escaped the county jail. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Veterans Freedom Flag Monument | alt= | url=https://uawfreedomflag.com/ | email= | address=1191 Buckeye Rd | lat=40.70855 | long=-84.12910 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=A monument to veterans stylized as an American flag made out of brick columns. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=James A. Rhodes State College | alt= | url=https://www.rhodesstate.edu/ | email= | address=4240 Campus Dr | lat=40.7383 | long=-84.0277 | directions= | phone=+1-419-995-8320 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=James A. Rhodes State College | wikidata=Q6128246 | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=A state college in Lima Ohio. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Ohio State University, Lima Campus | alt= | url=https://lima.osu.edu/ | email= | address=4240 Campus Dr | lat=40.7383 | long=-84.0277 | directions= | phone=+1-567-242-7272 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ohio State University, Lima Campus | wikidata=Q7080960 | lastedit=2019-08-12 | content=Ohio State University's Lima Branch. This campus frequently hosts open events relating to the arts and STEM. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Nickel Plate 779 | alt=Lincoln Park | url=https://www.cityhall.lima.oh.us/Facilities/Facility/Details/10 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Nickel Plate 779 | image=Baldwin Berkshire-type No. 779 built for the Nickel Plate.jpg | wikidata=Q7028260 | lastedit=2019-08-12 | content=A preserved steam locomotive, and the final steam locomotive built by the now defunct Lima Locomotive Works. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Allen County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.742778 | long=-84.105556 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Allen County Courthouse (Ohio) | image=Lima-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4731596 | lastedit=2019-08-12 | content=A historic sandstone courthouse built in 1881 using the second empire architectural style. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Lima Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.740167 | long=-84.091306 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lima Stadium | wikidata=Q6548835 | lastedit=2017-07-10 | content=A historic stadium where Lima's sports teams play. }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Allen County Fair | alt= | url=https://allencofair.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{listing | type=buy | name=Lima Mall | alt= | url=https://limamall.com/ | email= | address=2400 Elida Rd | lat=40.7667 | long=-84.15 | directions= | phone=+1 419-331-6255 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lima Mall | image=Lima mall.jpg | wikidata=Q6548818 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Eat== Most restaurants in Lima are of the chain variety, either fast food or sit-down. There is at least one of most major types of restaurant (Texas Roadhouse, IHOP, Applebee's, Olive Garden, Panera Bread, etc.) in town, but there are a few local restaurants worth visiting. * {{listing | type=eat | name=Kewpee | alt= | url=https://kewpeehamburgers.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.740556 | long=-84.105556 | directions=three locations: one by the highway at Bellefontaine & Kibby, one downtown at Market & Elizabeth, and one in Westgate at Cable & Allentown | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kewpee | image=Kewpee Restaurant.JPG | wikidata=Q6397963 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Even if you are just passing through, a visit to Lima is not complete without a burger from Kewpee. Founded as a fast food chain in the 1920s, most Kewpee restaurants closed decades later except for the family-owned franchises in Lima, which retain their nostalgic feel. The burgers, fresh from local meat, are spectacular and well worth a stop off the highway. }} * {{eat | name=Yamato West | alt= | url=https://yamatowest.com/ | email= | address=2315 Elida Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Cable & Elida | phone=+1 567-371-3210 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=It is like your friendly hibachi neighborhood grill. }} * {{eat | name=The Milano Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near Cable & Elida | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-10 | content=Italian }} * {{eat | name=Western Sizzlin of Lima | alt= | url=https://westernsizzlinoflima.com/ | email= | address=2721 Elida Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-331-6644 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content=A local steakhouse. }} ==Drink== * {{listing | type=drink | name=The Met | alt= | url=https://www.themet306.com/ | email=info@themet306.com | address=306 N Main St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-999-9463 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Reservation Alley | alt= | url= | email= | address=2290 Shawnee Rd in back | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 567-289-5861 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Local coffee shop with frozen, iced, and hot options. Has food and sugar free options available. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Wingate_by_Wyndham_in_Lima.jpg|thumb|A hotel in Lima]] *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate Inn Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat= | long= | directions=near the airport and university | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Upscale accomoation near downtown. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hampton Inn Lima | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/limohhx-hampton-lima/ | email= | address=1933 Roschman Ave | lat=40.7269 | long=-84.0727 | directions= | phone=+1-419-225-8300 | tollfree= | checkin=4PM | checkout=noon | price=$134 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Lima | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/lima/aohli/hoteldetail | email= | address=803 S Leonard Ave | lat=40.72985 | long=-84.07754 | directions= | phone=+1 419-879-4000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=$139 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Lima Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.limalibrary.com/ | email= | address=650 W Market St | lat=40.7406 | long=-84.1138 | directions= | phone=+1 419-228-5113 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-28 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Lima Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.74171 | long=-84.10888 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-11 | content= }} ==Go next== * [[Findlay]] * [[Kenton]] {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Bluffton (Ohio)|Bluffton]] ← Jct [[Delphos (Ohio)|W]] [[File:US 30.svg|18px]] [[Ada (Ohio)|E]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Wapakoneta]] | image2=OH-309.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=Ends at [[File:US 30.svg|18px]] | minorl2=[[Delphos (Ohio)|Delphos]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Mansfield (Ohio)|Mansfield]] | minorr2=[[Ada (Ohio)|Ada]] }} {{geo|40.740833|-84.115000}} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{usablecity}} bc5inv21x0nezrqx9vcq1pe0cfkggfe 0 20704 5091268 5072149 2025-07-11T09:52:06Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091268 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Madagascar_banner.jpg|caption=Landscape near Fianarantsoa}} '''Madagascar''' is a country in the [[Indian Ocean]] off the eastern coast of [[Africa]]. It is known for its particularly unique wildlife and flora. Madagascar split from India approximately 88 million years ago, and as a result of its long isolation it is home to a massive number of unique plant and animal species, with over 90% of its wildlife and 80% of its plants found nowhere else on the planet. ==Regions== [[File:Madagascar Regions map.png|thumb|right|400px|Map of Madagascar with regions colour coded]] {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Antananarivo Province]] | region1color=#e9ea6c | region1items=[[Antananarivo]], [[Antsirabe]] | region1description=The capital is the arrival point for many visitors, and the hub of the domestic airline and land transport routes. Outside of the capital are small towns known for their craft workshops, as well as small reserves that are home to lemurs. | region2name=[[Antsiranana Province]] | region2color=#c0e0a6 | region2items=[[Antsiranana]], [[Masoala National Park]], [[Nosy Be]] | region2description=Home to the beautiful tropical island of [[Nosy Be]], and its surrounding sub-islands, this region is where most travellers go for upscale resorts and pristine beaches, and is one of the most popular destinations in the entire country. | region3name=[[Fianarantsoa Province]] | region3color=#69999f | region3items=[[Fianarantsoa]], [[Ambositra]], [[Ambalavao]], [[Andringitra National Park]], [[Ranomafana National Park]] | region3description=The area south of the capital is home to rain forests and mountains, and relatively accessible via RN7. | region4name=[[Mahajanga Province]] | region4color=#71b37b | region4items=[[Mahajanga]], [[Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve]] | region4description=Mahajanga is home to impressive wetlands and some hidden resorts that can be reached only by private plane or boat. | region5name=[[Toamasina Province]] | region5color=#507027 | region5items=[[Toamasina]], [[Vatomandry]], [[Ile aux Nattes]], [[Andasibe-Mantadia National Park]] | region5description=This province is home to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, where the Indri lemurs sing, and to some less-visited destinations along the eastern coast. | region6name=[[Toliara Province]] | region6color=#aba58b | region6items=[[Toliara]], [[Anakao]], [[Isalo National Park]] | region6description=The southern portion of the country is the land of the spiny forest, with hot and dry conditions leading to an environment of harsh vegetation that is nevertheless home to a vast array of lemurs, lizards, birds and insects. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#e9ea6c|title=[[Antananarivo Province]]|wikidata=Q489821}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c0e0a6|title=[[Antsiranana Province]]|wikidata=Q656073}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#69999f|title=[[Fianarantsoa Province]]|wikidata=Q841197}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Mahajanga Province]]|wikidata=Q218753}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#507027|title=[[Toamasina Province]]|wikidata=Q639418}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#aba58b|title=[[Toliara Province]]|wikidata=Q162020}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|||zoom=|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Antananarivo]]|url=|lat=-18.91|long=47.53|wikidata=Q3915}}- the capital and usually called ''Tana'' by locals. *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Ambalavao]]|url=|lat=-21.83|long=46.94|wikidata=Q2092364}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Ambositra]]|url=|lat=-20.53|long=47.25|wikidata=Q458440}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Antsirabe]]|url=|lat=-19.87|long=47.03|wikidata=Q583184}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Fianarantsoa]]|url=|lat=-21.45|long=47.09|wikidata=Q527441}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Ihosy]]|url=|lat=-22.41|long=46.13|wikidata=Q1657947}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Morondava]]|url=|lat=-20.29|long=44.28|wikidata=Q864109}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Taolagnaro]]|url=|lat=-25.03|long=46.99|wikidata=Q526568}} (''also commonly known as Fort Dauphin'') *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Toliara]]|url=|lat=-23.35|long=43.67|wikidata=Q824043}} (''also commonly known as Tulear'') ==Other destinations== *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Anakao]]|url=|lat=-23.66|long=43.65|wikidata=Q2845132}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Andasibe-Mantadia National Park]]|url=|lat=-18.94|long=48.43|wikidata=Q2519690}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Andringitra National Park]]|url=|lat=-22.22|long=46.93|wikidata=Q1116933}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Ile aux Nattes]]|url=|lat=-17.11|long=49.81|wikidata=Q292248}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Isalo National Park]]|url=|lat=-22.47|long=45.26|wikidata=Q120414}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Masoala National Park]]|url=|lat=-15.52|long=50.17|wikidata=Q964116}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Nosy Be]]|url=|lat=-13.35|long=48.28|wikidata=Q1330558}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Ranomafana National Park]]|url=|lat=-21.23|long=47.42|wikidata=Q1498242}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve]]|url=|lat=-18.48|long=44.75|wikidata=Q1405154}} ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMadagascar.png}} ===History=== Madagascar's first settlers, the [[Indigenous Taiwanese culture|Austronesians]], likely arrived in the mid-1st millennium CE. The island's first inhabitants are believed to have come from both Southeast Asia and East Africa. Madagascar saw the rise of various powerful kingdoms and chiefdoms. Among them was the Merina Kingdom in the central highlands, which began to dominate in the 15th century. The Merina people developed a sophisticated political structure. [[French Colonial Empire|France]] began to show interest in Madagascar in the 17th century, setting up trading posts along the coast. The French influence grew in the 18th century, particularly as they sought to exploit resources, including valuable timber and spices. In 1896, after a period of escalating tensions, France formally made Madagascar a colony. The French imposed harsh rule, leading to resistance movements, such as the uprising of 1947, which was brutally suppressed. A movement for independence led by figures like Philippe Tsiranana gained support and Madagascar gained independence from France on 26 June 1960, when he became the first president. In the 21st century, Madagascar experienced political instability, including the controversial election of 2001 that led to protests and a military coup in 2009 that ousted President Marc Ravalomanana. The political situation has improved since then, but the country still faces challenges in terms of economic development. ===People=== Despite its proximity to Africa, language and DNA studies show that the people of Madagascar are predominantly ethnically [[Austronesian]]; their ancestors between 350 BCE and 550 CE. Later, around 1000 CE, migrants crossed the Mozambique Channel and arrived from East Africa, and were followed by Arabs, Indians, and Chinese immigrants. The Malagasy way of thinking, as well as their appearance and fashion style, is a mixture of cultures. Madagascar is part of the African Union, but was suspended from the organization from 2009 to 2013. There was political turmoil in Madagascar in 2002 and again between 2009 and 2010, which led to a decrease in tourism, but the situation was resolved to the satisfaction of the international community with the adoption of a new constitution in 2010 and presidential elections in 2013 that were judged to be free and fair. Any continuing political issues seem likely to be debated peacefully with words and not coups or other drastic actions, for the foreseeable future. Madagascar is home to 18 ethnic groups, but the largest and predominant group are the Merina of the central highlands. ===Ecology=== [[File:Katta család.jpg|thumb|250px|Ring-tailed lemur with babies on board.]] {{seealso|Wildlife of Madagascar}} Due to its uniqueness some ecologists refer to it as the "eighth continent". Madagascar is home to nearly 15,000 plant species, with highlights including the massive and ancient baobab trees, the unique spiny forests of the south, over 800 species of orchids, and the dwindling rain forests. Human activity, particularly the fires used for agricultural purposes, have damaged the environment, and since the arrival of humans approximately 90% of the island's original forest has disappeared. Animal life on the island is equally impressive, in particular the more than 100 species of lemurs, nearly all of which are rare or threatened. The island is home to over 300 species of birds, approximately 260 species of reptiles, and a massive number of amphibians and insects. The eastern, or windward side of the island is home to tropical rainforests, while the western and southern sides, which lie in the rain shadow of the central highlands, are home to tropical dry forests, thorn forests, and deserts and xeric shrublands. Madagascar's dry deciduous rain forest has been preserved generally better than the eastern rainforests or the high central plateau, presumably due to historically low population densities. ===Holidays=== * January 1: New Year's Day * March 29: Martyrs Day * Easter (variable) * June 26: Independence Day (celebrates independence from France in 1960) * November 1: All Saints Day * December 25: Christmas ===Climate=== [[File:Fishermen in Nosey Be.jpg|thumb|Fishermen in Nosy Be]] The climate is tropical along the coast, temperate inland, and arid in the south. The weather is dominated by the southeastern trade winds that originate in the Indian Ocean anticyclone, a centre of high atmospheric pressure that seasonally changes its position over the ocean. Madagascar has two seasons: a hot, rainy season from November to April; and a cooler, dry season from May to October. There is great variation in climate owing to elevation and position relative to dominant winds. The east coast has a sub-equatorial climate and, being most directly exposed to the trade winds, has the heaviest rainfall, averaging as much as 3,500 mm (137.8 in) annually. This region is notorious not only for a hot, humid climate in which tropical fevers are endemic but also for the destructive cyclones that occur during the rainy season, coming in principally from the direction of the Mascarene Islands. Because rain clouds discharge much of their moisture east of the highest elevations on the island, the central highlands are appreciably drier and, owing to the altitude, also cooler. Thunderstorms are common during the rainy season in the central highlands, and lightning is a serious hazard. [[Antananarivo]] receives practically all of its average annual 1,400mm (55.1&nbsp;in) of rainfall between November and April. The dry season is pleasant and sunny, although somewhat chilly, especially in the mornings. Although frosts are rare in Antananarivo, they are common at higher elevations. ===Read=== * ''The Eighth Continent: Life, Death, and Discovery in the Lost World of Madagascar'' by Peter Tyson. Extensive descriptions of Madagascar's wildlife, as well as lots of details about Malagasy culture. * ''The Gardens of Mars: Nadagascar, an Island Story'' by John Gimlette. More of a focus on the spectacularly complicated and bloody history of the island's people. * The Bradt Guide to Madagascar ===Tourist information === * [https://madagascar-tourisme.com/en/ Madagascar Tourism] website ==Talk== The entire island speaks one language: [[Malagasy phrasebook|Malagasy]], an Austronesian language. "Malagasy" refers to both the language and the people of the island. Because the island is so large, there are many different dialects. The Merina dialect is the "Official Malagasy" of the island and is spoken around highlands of [[Antananarivo]]. Most Malagasy, however, speak Merina across the island. Attempts by foreigners to learn and speak Malagasy are liked and encouraged by the Malagasy people. Today, Malagasy is the daily language spoken by 98% of the population in Madagascar, and since 1972, Malagasy has been used as the language of instruction in some schools. As an Austronesian language, Malagasy is more closely related to languages spoken in maritime Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands than to other African languages. French is the second official language of Madagascar, and most individuals encountered in parks and other touristy areas will speak fluent French. English is increasingly common and many hotels and parks will have at least a few English-speaking staff. Italian, German, Spanish and Japanese are understood to a lesser extent in areas where tourists are likely to visit. Some basic Malagasy vocabulary that will help relate to the Malagasy people (there are many different regional versions of the Malagasy language across the country): {| class="wikitable" |- ! Malagasy !! English |- | Vazaha || Foreigner |- | Misoatra || Thank you |- | Salama || Hello |- | Veloma || Goodbye |- | Azafady || Please/Sorry/Excuse me |} ==Get in== <!--[[File:Visa policy of Madagascar.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Madagascar]]--> ===Visa=== Visitors from most countries can obtain a ''Madagascar tourist visa'' upon arrival in Madagascar (information accurate as of March 2020). * For stays of up to 14 nights €10 * For stays of up to '''30 days''' US$37 or €35. * For longer stays of up to '''60 days''' US$45 or €40. * The Antananarivo airport visa on arrival counter was no longer issuing 90-day stays as of November 2018. You must pay for the visa with cash: in US dollars or euros. They also ask for an address of your first night stay. You can get a '''30 day visa extension 80.000Ar''' at the Immigration Office at the ministry of the Interior five minutes from Carlton Hotel in Antananarivo or at the commissariat of police offices around Madagascar. The maximum stay on a tourist visa is 90 days. After 90 days, you can go to Reunion or Mauritius then come back. ===Vaccination=== Prior to your trip, you should ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date; these include polio, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, MMR and typhoid (check with your doctor). If you are travelling through a country where yellow fever is present then you will be required to show proof of vaccination for yellow fever before you will be allowed entry into Madagascar. ===By plane=== [[File:Ivato airport in Antananarivo Madagascar.JPG|thumb|250px|Ivato airport in Antananarivo]] International flights to Madagascar generally either go to [[Antananarivo]] ({{IATA|TNR}}) or Nosy Be ({{IATA|NOS}}). '''[https://madagascarairlines.com/en/index.html Madagascar Airlines]''' is the national carrier and offers flights from [[Paris]] Charles de Gaulle, [[Marseille]] and [[Guangzhou]], Other airlines serving Madagascar: * '''[http://www.flyairlink.com Airlink South Africa]''' provides daily flights from [[Johannesburg]]. * '''Air France''' offer flights from Europe, North America, South America via [[Paris]] Charles de Gaulle. * '''Air Austral''' offer flights to [[Antananarivo]], [[Nosy Be]], [[Toamasina]] from [[Paris]], [[Marseille]], [[Bangkok]], [[Chennai]], [[Johannesburg]], [[Mauritius]], [[Seychelles]]. Flights transfer on [[Reunion]] Island. * '''[http://www.airmauritius.com Air Mauritius]''' from Europe, Asia and Australia via [[Mauritius]]. * '''[http://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways]''' operates regular service from Europe, North America, Asia and Africa via [[Nairobi]]. * '''[https://www.turkishairlines.com Turkish Airlines]''' from Europe, North America, South America and Asia via [[Istanbul]] has some low fares but have two stops via Mauritius and Istanbul * '''[https://www.ethiopianairlines.com/AA/EN Ethiopian Airlines]''' from Africa, Europe, North America, South America and Asia via [[Addis Ababa]]. * '''Comores Aviation''' fly from [[Moroni]] and [[Anjouan]] * '''EWA Air''' fly from [[Mahajanga]], [[Antsiranana]], [[Nosy Be]] to [[Mayotte]]. *'''[https://www.emirates.com Emirates]''' fly from [[Dubai]] Expect to pay around 40 000 Ar to get to Tana by taxi, but drivers might easily ask for 60 000 Ar. Otherwise you can get to the Ivato town nearby and take a taxi-be (a local shared taxi bigger than a van) for around 600 Ar. Because you must also buy a seat for your luggage, it will cost 1200 Ar. ===By boat=== The only regular link used to be between [[Toamasina]] on the east coast and [[Mauritius]] via [[Reunion]]. This service has been suspended since December 2014. If you want to enter Madagascar by boat, you'll have to do it as a passenger on a cargo vessel. Doing so is not recommended; if you want to enter Madagascar with a vehicle, it is best to transport it as cargo and fly yourself. ==Get around== ===By plane=== Madagascar Airlines serves 11 destinations throughout the country, and provide a much faster option than driving given the poor state of many roads. While the airline will provide you with a hotel and book you on the next available flight in the case of a cancellation, don't book tight connections and always confirm your flight time the night before. ===By train=== As of 2023 [http://www.madarail.mg/voyages_train_voyageur.php Madarail] operates only one service, a 9-hour trip between Moramanga (115 km east of Antananarivo) and Ambila Lemaitso on the east coast. The railway dates from the colonial period, so breakdowns are frequent due to poor maintenance, and the line may be closed for several weeks. ===By car=== [[File:Sainte marie Madagascar paved road.JPG|right|250px|thumb|Road in Sainte Marie]] Madagascar's roads are almost all of very low grade (with the exception of 2 routes leading out of Tana). Many roads are studded with potholes and are quagmires in the rainy season. Travel by road will almost always take much more time than you would normally expect. Hire of a 4WD vehicle can reduce this problem but the cost will be higher but still very cost effective if you are not travelling alone and able to split the rental fee between the members of your group (at least US$70/day/car as of October 2014). In nearly all cases a car rental will include the cost of a driver and his accommodation, but verify when booking your rental; most companies will not rent a car without a driver, and in many cases the driver can act as your guide and translator as well. ===By taxi-brousse=== [[File:Y Coetsee Inside a taxi-brousse.jpg|thumb|View from inside a taxi-brousse.]] Taxi-brousse, or interurban shared taxi, is the way most natives travel around the country. There are three major modern roads in the country: RN7 from Tana to Toliara, RN2 from Tana to Tomasina (via Brickaville) and RN4 from Tana to Mahajanga. Trips between those towns take about a day, whereas traveling between Tana and Taolagnaro, a south-eastern coastal town, would take about 3 or 4 days due to the condition of the road. Travel is cramped, and don't expect air conditioning. Expect dust to be a problem in the dry season. Travel by taxi-brousse is guaranteed to test one's patience and sanity, but there is quite possibly no better way to meet and interact with the locals and experience Madagascar as the Malagasy do. Taxi-brousse is by far the cheapest way to travel, but do not expect to leave or arrive on time. Indeed, the drivers wait for their 15-seat small buses to get full before leaving; therefore, a few hours' delay is never excluded. However, the trip allows you to admire the breathtaking landscapes of Madagascar. Most national parks and towns can be reached from Antananarivo; drivers will happily drop you off en route to their final destination. *'''Cotisse Transport''' serves [[Mahajanga]], [[Morondava]], [[Fianarantsoa]] and [[Toamasina]]. *'''Besady Plus''' buses leave on time, whether full or not. The provide free wifi and go between Antananarivo and [[Nosy Be]] via [[Ambanja]] and from Antananarivo to [[Sainte Marie]] via [[Toamasina]]. The tickets include sea transfer. ===By taxi-be=== In Tana, the cheapest way to get around is by taxi-be, or big taxi, which is a bit larger than a mini-van. There is one aisle with seats to fold down so they can cram in even more people. During peak season, buses run frequently. Prices are around 600 Ar, as of November 2018, the 183 which is one of the buses going to Cotisse Transport costs 400 Ar. ===By boat=== [[File:Madagascar local car ferry.jpg|thumb|Ferry crossing Manambolo River]] If you are looking for an unusual holiday, a yacht charter to Madagascar might be a good choice. For those who would like to bareboat, a “guide” is usually included in the price of the yacht charter. Although obligatory, he comes with the price and is essential for the multitude of services he will provide. He will prepare the food, recommend anchorages, know where to fish and refill the water tanks. He will speak the local language and have an established relationship with the local people. He will protect the boat from theft when you leave it to explore on land. The guide lives completely on the exterior of the boat and does not require a cabin. A yacht charter to Madagascar is a bit of a “Robinson Crusoe” adventure. Once you embark, you will not be able to stock up provisions again and must live off the fish and seafood you will catch for yourself (or with your guide). So take great care with your provisioning list. This problem can be avoided by chartering one of the crewed catamarans. The boats are designed for stability so sea sickness is not really a problem. The crew prepare the boat with linen, food and drinks before your arrival -basically these boats are like a personal floating hotel. Depending on which boat you choose you could receive excellent service and food and suggestions of where to go and what to do. Choose your catamaran carefully as there are some really old ones in service- make sure the crew can speak your language. ===By bicycle=== [[File:Cyclo-pousse Madagascar 1.jpg|thumb|Cyclo-pousse.]] Madagascar is a great place to tour by [[cycling|bike]] and staying in small towns and villages along the way gives a real sense of what the country is all about. A mountain bike or heavy duty tourer at least is required as the roads can be in poor to terrible condition. In the rainy season on the east coast the main north-south road can become impassable, possibly leading to a two-day walk - over soft sand in one section - this is not an easily rideable route. Generally there is little to no traffic which makes cruising around a great pleasure. The people are amazingly friendly and you'll be greeted with crowds of children shouting 'Vazaha' in every village. There are few or no facilities for cyclists, so be prepared to camp rough (ask if it is somebody's land and never too near a family grave) or sleep in very basic guesthouses. Likely you will be invited to stay in people's houses. Bring a spare tire, puncture kit, chain, brake or gear cable, derailleur and all the tools you need. ==See== [[File:Adansonia grandidieri04.jpg|300px|thumb|Baobab near Morondava]] * {{see | name=Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1405154 | content=is a {{UNESCO}} and is Madagascar's largest reserve (152,000 hectares). The fascinating raised limestone plateau is decorated with a frail, chaotic razor-sharp collection of pinnacles, the “Tsingy”, also called the Labyrinth of Stone. Areas of deciduous forest also provide the chance to see brown lemurs, a variety of bird life and the rare all white Decken’s sifaka. The great variety of flora includes: aloes, orchids, numerous pachypodium and baobabs. The deciduous forest is home to over 50 species of birds; 7 species of lemurs (including the all-white Deckens sifaka) and the rare stump-tailed chameleon (Brookesia perarmata). The site of Bemaraha is managed under special UNESCO and access is restricted and the areas you are allowed to visit vary from time to time. Located approximately 180 km north of [[Morondava]]. }} * {{see | name=Avenue of the Baobabs | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q788084 | content=is an extraordinary stand of huge baobab trees, 45 minutes north of [[Morondava]] on Madagascar's west coast. It is one of the most visited sites in the Menabe Region. A candidate as one of the 7 Wonders of Africa; efforts are underway to protect this unique grove of more than a dozen trees. Some of the trees, Adansonia grandidieri, are over 800 years old and reach a height of more than 30 metres. A photographer's paradise, and especially beautiful at sunset. }} *Sites from the Merina Kingdom can be seen across different parts of Madagascar. ==Do== Most people visiting Madagascar do so for the wildlife, and there are a number of national parks and private reserves scattered throughout the country. Some are easier to reach than others - the dual [[Andasibe-Mantadia National Park]] area is a few hours from the capital via a paved road, while other parks require days of driving and trekking to explore. [[Scuba diving]] and [[snorkeling]] is exceptional in [[Nosy Be]], and is also possible in other areas like [[Toliara]]. Be aware that the nearest hyperbaric chamber lies across the Mozambique Channel, and that outside of Nosy Be scuba equipment may not be up to expected standards, so exercise caution and be careful to minimize risks when diving. The condition of corals varies from pristine at [[Nosy Tanikely]] to completely destroyed elsewhere, and depending on time of year the visibility may exceed 30 metres, or may be reduced to zero by the outflow from rivers, which, due erosion caused by deforestation, can turn the ocean brown. In the far north near Diego [[kitesurfing]] and [[windsurfing]] are exceptional between April and November when a constant 30 knot-wind makes the area one of the best surfing spots in the southern hemisphere. Kayaking and deep sea fishing are always rewarding water activities. The {{UNESCO}} '''Rainforests of the Atsinanana''' is made up of six national parks along the eastern coast of Madagascar; [[Marojejy National Park]], [[Masoala National Park]], [[Zahamena National Park]], [[Ranomafana National Park]], [[Andringitra National Park]] and [[Andohahela National Park]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malagasy ariary | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;Ar | date=January 2025 | USD=4,400 | EUR=5,200 | GBP=5,900 | ZAR=250 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mga-malagasy-ariary XE.com] }} Local money is the '''Malagasy ariary''', denoted by the symbol "'''Ar'''" (ISO code: '''MGA'''). Ariary banknotes come in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000 Ar. The ariary is subdivided into 5 ''iraimbilanja'', making it one of only two non-decimal currencies, but travellers will never have to deal with this minuscule unit of currency. There are ATMs in larger cities and bigger towns where you can withdraw ariary cash with Visa, Visa Electron, Mastercard, Maestro, Union Pay. Diners club, American Express, Discover card. The withdrawal limit is (usually 400,000 Ar). ATMs are frequently ''en panne'' due to connection problems or other technical difficulties. Carry a US dollar or euro emergency reserve with you. '''BFV Societe Generale''' & '''BOA-Bank of Africa''' ATMs have a '''withdraw fee of 8000-10200Ar per withdraw''' for overseas bank cards. All other ATM networks in Madagascar have no withdraw fee at this time. The Seven ATM networks in Madagascar are: *'''AccesBanque''' ATMs take Mastercard, visa card, Union Pay. (no withdraw fee) *'''BGFI''' ATMs only take Visa card. (no withdraw fee) *'''BMOI''' ATMs take only Visa card. (no withdraw fee) *'''BOA-Bank of Africa''' ATMs take only Visa card. *'''BNI''' ATMs take Mastercard and Visa card. (no withdraw fee) *'''BFV Societe Generale''' ATMs take Mastercard, Visa card, Maestro, Union Pay, Diners Club, American Express and Discover cards. *'''MCB-Mauritius Commerce Bank''' ATMs take Mastercard, Visa card, Diners Club and Discover cards. (no withdraw fee). Credit cards are accepted by many hotels, restaurants and shops in Antananarivo and Nosy Be, You may have too pay an extra charge for the credit card commission, which ranges between free and 8%. Occasionally, hotels and other services used by travellers are quoted in euros. Generally, payment in the local currency is expected but euros are usually also accepted. If you wish to pay in euros, clarify the conditions at which the euro price is converted to avoid that a very bad exchange rate is applied. For changing money, as of June 2023, locals will not recommend going to a bank, but rather use the services of a money changer. Money changers are usually ambulant. Ask the receptionist of your accommodation or an expatriate living in Madagascar to recommend you one. Usually, the money changer will come to your hotel for the transaction. You get better rates for large denominations of euros and US dollars and UK pounds and rates are better in Antananarivo than in provincial cities. * '''Socimad''' exchange has a bureau de change (open 24 hours TV) at the Ivato airport, and one in downtown (Lalana Radama 1). ===Shopping=== Vanilla and other spices are cheaper in Madagascar than in Europe or elsewhere, and the quality (especially of vanilla) is very good. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping]] is a matter of much confusion in Madagascar, and is made more confusing because expectations are different when the customer is a foreigner instead of a local. In restaurants and bars you should leave a tip equivalent to ten percent of the total bill. Locals will generally leave far less. If someone helps you with your bags consider a tip equivalent to US$1 per bag. In taxis, rounding the bill upwards is more than sufficient. If you have a private vehicle with a driver, tipping the equivalent of US$10-13 per day is considered extremely generous, while US$5-10 per day is normal for standard service. A good tip for a park guide is approximately US$7-10 per day. Individuals who clean hotel rooms are sometimes not given a salary, so consider leaving a few dollars in the room when you depart (many hotels will have a tip box in the lobby that can also be used to tip the entire staff). When in doubt about how much to tip, consider that even a doctor or university teacher may be making less than 200,000 Ar per month, and remember that in remote areas your tip may set expectations for travelers who follow you, some of whom may be researchers or aid workers with limited funds available (as of October 2018). ==Eat== [[File:Hotely malagasy.jpg|thumb|Hotely malagasy]] The cheapest way to get a meal is to eat at a "hotely". A plate of rice, laoka (malagasy for a side dish accompanying rice) like chicken, beans or pork, and rice water costs about 3000 Ar (2020). For 1000 Ar extra you can get a small glass of homemade yoghurt. Bananas (hundreds of varieties) and rice cakes (Malagasy 'bread') are staple 'street food' and available everywhere. Coffee is very good, usually hand-made by the cup and served very sweet with condensed milk. Steak-frites is available in restaurants in the larger towns. ===Supermarkets=== There are supermarkets all over Madagascar. The four biggest supermarkets chains are Super U, Score, Leader price and Supermaki. All four Western style supermarket chains are well stocked. There are many leader price & Super U-branded goods but also some more local produce (veg, spices, etc.) Super U is slightly cheaper and has many stores in Antananarivo, Mahajanga, Toamasina and Antsirabe. ==Drink== There is no safe tap water so be prepared with bottled water, which is usually easily obtainable. The only other option is ranon'apango (RAN-oo-na-PANG-oo) or rice water (water used to cook rice, which will therefore have been boiled). It's particularly important to plan ahead if visiting rural areas. It is worth taking with you some chlorine tablets, which can be used to make the local water drinkable. In towns, roadside drink stands, stores and bars are plentiful. Most sell a range of drinks including bottled water, Fanta, Coca Cola and Madagascar's beer, Three Horses Beer (THB). You can also try the bubblegum flavoured 'Bonbon Anglais', which is to South American Inka Cola, although it may be sold as 'limonade' - leading you to think it may be lemonade. Home brewed rum, and creme de coco, is also available in many flavours. ==Sleep== Lodging quality varies dramatically throughout the country, from dorm-style rooms to luxury five-star resorts. In most places room prices will be quoted per room, although many luxury resorts quote prices per person. Insect nets and private bathrooms are provided in nearly all of the more upscale lodging, although in lower-priced establishments you may need to provide your own bug net. There are backpacker hostels in a few places with prices from US$5. ==Learn== Learn some Malagasy. The single best thing you can do to have a fun and safe trip is to speak the local language. There are a number of guidebooks you can buy to learn Malagasy, or alternatively you can ask someone to teach you. Just a few words will make all the difference. ==Stay safe== Madagascar is a fairly safe country. You must, however, respect some simple principles: *Don't walk around at night in Antananarivo (other cities are pretty safe). *Don't exhibit signs of wealth (cameras, jewels). *Similarly, always carry small notes. Paying with large denomination notes shows off your wealth, can insult the seller because they will not have change, and opens you up for becoming a target for crime. *Keep an eye on your belongings when using public transport or visiting markets where numerous [[pickpockets]] swarm. *Learn the Malagasy word for thief, "Mpangalatra" which is pronounced "Pun-gul-ah-tra". If someone is trying to rob you in a busy market area scream this. The fact that a vazaha is screaming thief will unsettle the thief and alert the people near you to help. *Always listen for the words "vazaha" or "vazongo" when spoken in low tones. If you hear these words be aware that someone is talking about you, for better or for worse! The centre of Antananarivo should be avoided, as well as the Ankato area, Avenue de L'Independence, Ambohijatovo, Analakely, Bohorika, Isoraka, Ampasamandinika, 67ha, Isotry and the area around the military barracks. Elsewhere in the country, Nosy Be, Toamasina (Tamatave), Mahajunga, Ankarana, Isalo, Montagne d'Ambre Nature Reserve, Tuléar and Batterie Beach, and the RN 7 and RN 27 roads are particularly to be avoided. Like any other developing country, there are a lot of beggars. This is sometimes uncomfortable for tourists, but these people should be respected nonetheless. They are, predictably, attracted to foreigners and will not hesitate to ask for a hand-out. If you don't want to give, a simple "Non, merci" or "Tsy Misy (tsee-meesh)" (I have nothing) will do the trick. If they persist, try shouting "Mandehana! (man-day-han)" (Go Away!) It is recommended not to give money, but other useful items, such as a banana, a piece of bread, etc. It is usually accepted with gratitude, and if the beggar is a child, he will run away with a smile on his face. It is imperative not to encourage begging - in Madagascar the people do not really believe in getting something for nothing and will invariably offer you something first. For example a chameleon to photograph. ==Stay healthy== Visitors to Madagascar should be aware of a vast number of health concerns. Diseases such as the plague, which are almost unheard of elsewhere, still occur in Madagascar. '''[[Drinking water]]''' is almost never safe for foreigners; treated or bottled water should always be used, and salads or dishes containing unpeeled fruits or vegetables should be avoided. While the AIDS epidemic has not reached the devastating level found in many southern African countries, it is widely assumed that the incidence of AIDS is underestimated and rising, so you should take no risks and avoid unprotected sex in all cases. When swimming, beware of the possibility of human waste in the water, which can cause cholera, typhoid, and a number of other diseases. Leeches and tropical parasites are also a concern. Research '''[[malaria]]''' prophylaxis options, and follow through. If you are not taking any prophylactics, be sure to always use a mosquito net for sleeping, and apply mosquito repellents once dusk sets in. On-skin repellent (only repellents containing ~40% DEET are effective, such as NoBite, or Azeron Before Tropics) is good but should be used in combination with on-clothes repellent (i.e., NoBite). The clothes repellent is odorless approximately an hour after application, and clothes can be washed up to 4 times before it needs to be re-applied. If you wear long-sleeve clothing treated with the repellent and apply on-skin repellent to the skin parts not covered, you will be very safe against mosquito bites and can skip the prophylaxis with its notorious side effects. Take the repellent issue seriously, though, as it's very easy to fall into a more 'relaxed' mode after you've spent some time in the country. Areas inhabited by humans will invariably have large populations of stray dogs. Avoid stray dogs, and although bites are rare, if bitten seek medical assistance promptly as rabies is not unheard of. Remember that Madagascar is in the tropics and take precautions against sunburn and heat exhaustion seriously. Wear lots of sunscreen and keep hydrated. A cloudy day does not mean you won't get burnt. ==Respect== [[File:Madagascar74.182.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Picture of a tomb taken in the 70s]] Everyday life in Madagascar is regulated by numerous ''fady'' (taboos) which vary from one region to another. They can forbid foods (lemur, turtle, beef), wearing clothes of a particular colour, bathing in a river or a lake, etc. Observance of "Fady" is mostly limited to rural areas, as tourists will most likely not encounter this problem if they stay in the main towns. However, there are Fadys in places such as Antananarivo but most vazaha are exempt. Fady are attributed to ancestors, to whom Malagasy adopt a respectful attitude whatever their religion. It is safest to respect these prohibitions and not violate them, even if you feel they don't make sense. Inform yourself about local fady when you arrive in a new place. When addressing anyone older than you or in a position of authority (e.g. police, military, customs officials), use the word "tompoko (toom-pook)" the same way you would use "Sir" or "Ma'am" in English. Respect for elders and authority figures is important in Madagascar. Do not ever take photos of a tomb without permission. Always ask permission before taking photos. Also, if you go to a remote village or hamlet it is fomba or tradition that you first meet with the head of the village if you have business in the village. Meeting this person can save you a lot of time if you have work to do there. ==Connect== International phone calls and 4G Internet via data can be done via cell phone companies such as '''Airtel''', '''Orange''' or '''Telma''' they work off prepaid phone cards. International phone calls using Telma to Europe cost 900 Ar per minute. There are also Internet cafes in the major cities and most large towns. Electricity may be erratic. Many areas have either mandatory shutdown hours or rationing. It's best to bring an openline smart phone and buy a SIM card when you get to Madagascar. It's also useful to have a powerbank. Most hotels now also have Wi-Fi. You can also easily buy a SIM card from anyone of the cell phone companies and get a data plan. The process is fairly easy compared to other countries and SIM cards can be bought directly in the airport with the whole activation and buying process being done in less than 10 minutes. SIM cards and credit are also among the few things you can easily get hold of throughout the country, including in provincial towns and small rural villages. As of December 2018, a 12GB data plan good for 30 days is 75 000 Ar. Do not expect a data connection everywhere on the island, but when you do have data connection, the fast 4G network is fairly impressive and allows free [[Internet telephony|VoIP calls]]. Telma sells their SIM cards for 500 Ar. Orange sells their SIM card for 2000 Ar. A stamp for a postcard to anywhere in Europe costs 1100 Ar. {{related|Islands of the Indian Ocean}} {{usablecountry}} {{isPartOf|East African Islands}} {{geo|-20|47|zoom=7}} on2i3b33km8ukf8hlf8d4enho02uhag 5091271 5091268 2025-07-11T09:52:19Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091271 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Madagascar_banner.jpg|caption=Landscape near Fianarantsoa}} '''Madagascar''' is a country in the [[Indian Ocean]] off the eastern coast of [[Africa]]. It is known for its particularly unique wildlife and flora. Madagascar split from India approximately 88 million years ago, and as a result of its long isolation it is home to a massive number of unique plant and animal species, with over 90% of its wildlife and 80% of its plants found nowhere else on the planet. ==Regions== [[File:Madagascar Regions map.png|thumb|right|400px|Map of Madagascar with regions colour coded]] {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Antananarivo Province]] | region1color=#e9ea6c | region1items=[[Antananarivo]], [[Antsirabe]] | region1description=The capital is the arrival point for many visitors, and the hub of the domestic airline and land transport routes. Outside of the capital are small towns known for their craft workshops, as well as small reserves that are home to lemurs. | region2name=[[Antsiranana Province]] | region2color=#c0e0a6 | region2items=[[Antsiranana]], [[Masoala National Park]], [[Nosy Be]] | region2description=Home to the beautiful tropical island of [[Nosy Be]], and its surrounding sub-islands, this region is where most travellers go for upscale resorts and pristine beaches, and is one of the most popular destinations in the entire country. | region3name=[[Fianarantsoa Province]] | region3color=#69999f | region3items=[[Fianarantsoa]], [[Ambositra]], [[Ambalavao]], [[Andringitra National Park]], [[Ranomafana National Park]] | region3description=The area south of the capital is home to rain forests and mountains, and relatively accessible via RN7. | region4name=[[Mahajanga Province]] | region4color=#71b37b | region4items=[[Mahajanga]], [[Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve]] | region4description=Mahajanga is home to impressive wetlands and some hidden resorts that can be reached only by private plane or boat. | region5name=[[Toamasina Province]] | region5color=#507027 | region5items=[[Toamasina]], [[Vatomandry]], [[Ile aux Nattes]], [[Andasibe-Mantadia National Park]] | region5description=This province is home to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, where the Indri lemurs sing, and to some less-visited destinations along the eastern coast. | region6name=[[Toliara Province]] | region6color=#aba58b | region6items=[[Toliara]], [[Anakao]], [[Isalo National Park]] | region6description=The southern portion of the country is the land of the spiny forest, with hot and dry conditions leading to an environment of harsh vegetation that is nevertheless home to a vast array of lemurs, lizards, birds and insects. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#e9ea6c|title=[[Antananarivo Province]]|wikidata=Q489821}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c0e0a6|title=[[Antsiranana Province]]|wikidata=Q656073}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#69999f|title=[[Fianarantsoa Province]]|wikidata=Q841197}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Mahajanga Province]]|wikidata=Q218753}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#507027|title=[[Toamasina Province]]|wikidata=Q639418}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#aba58b|title=[[Toliara Province]]|wikidata=Q162020}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|||zoom=|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Antananarivo]]|url=|lat=-18.91|long=47.53|wikidata=Q3915}}- the capital and usually called ''Tana'' by locals. *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Ambalavao]]|url=|lat=-21.83|long=46.94|wikidata=Q2092364}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Ambositra]]|url=|lat=-20.53|long=47.25|wikidata=Q458440}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Antsirabe]]|url=|lat=-19.87|long=47.03|wikidata=Q583184}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Fianarantsoa]]|url=|lat=-21.45|long=47.09|wikidata=Q527441}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Ihosy]]|url=|lat=-22.41|long=46.13|wikidata=Q1657947}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Morondava]]|url=|lat=-20.29|long=44.28|wikidata=Q864109}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Taolagnaro]]|url=|lat=-25.03|long=46.99|wikidata=Q526568}} (''also commonly known as Fort Dauphin'') *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Toliara]]|url=|lat=-23.35|long=43.67|wikidata=Q824043}} (''also commonly known as Tulear'') ==Other destinations== *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Anakao]]|url=|lat=-23.66|long=43.65|wikidata=Q2845132}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Andasibe-Mantadia National Park]]|url=|lat=-18.94|long=48.43|wikidata=Q2519690}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Andringitra National Park]]|url=|lat=-22.22|long=46.93|wikidata=Q1116933}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Ile aux Nattes]]|url=|lat=-17.11|long=49.81|wikidata=Q292248}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Isalo National Park]]|url=|lat=-22.47|long=45.26|wikidata=Q120414}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Masoala National Park]]|url=|lat=-15.52|long=50.17|wikidata=Q964116}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Nosy Be]]|url=|lat=-13.35|long=48.28|wikidata=Q1330558}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Ranomafana National Park]]|url=|lat=-21.23|long=47.42|wikidata=Q1498242}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve]]|url=|lat=-18.48|long=44.75|wikidata=Q1405154}} ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMadagascar.png}} ===History=== Madagascar's first settlers, the [[Indigenous Taiwanese culture|Austronesians]], likely arrived in the mid-1st millennium CE. The island's first inhabitants are believed to have come from both Southeast Asia and East Africa. Madagascar saw the rise of various powerful kingdoms and chiefdoms. Among them was the Merina Kingdom in the central highlands, which began to dominate in the 15th century. The Merina people developed a sophisticated political structure. [[French Colonial Empire|France]] began to show interest in Madagascar in the 17th century, setting up trading posts along the coast. The French influence grew in the 18th century, particularly as they sought to exploit resources, including valuable timber and spices. In 1896, after a period of escalating tensions, France formally made Madagascar a colony. The French imposed harsh rule, leading to resistance movements, such as the uprising of 1947, which was brutally suppressed. A movement for independence led by figures like Philippe Tsiranana gained support and Madagascar gained independence from France on 26 June 1960, when he became the first president. In the 21st century, Madagascar experienced political instability, including the controversial election of 2001 that led to protests and a military coup in 2009 that ousted President Marc Ravalomanana. The political situation has improved since then, but the country still faces challenges in terms of economic development. ===People=== Despite its proximity to Africa, language and DNA studies show that the people of Madagascar are predominantly ethnically [[Austronesian]]; their ancestors between 350 BCE and 550 CE. Later, around 1000 CE, migrants crossed the Mozambique Channel and arrived from East Africa, and were followed by Arabs, Indians, and Chinese immigrants. The Malagasy way of thinking, as well as their appearance and fashion style, is a mixture of cultures. Madagascar is part of the African Union, but was suspended from the organization from 2009 to 2013. There was political turmoil in Madagascar in 2002 and again between 2009 and 2010, which led to a decrease in tourism, but the situation was resolved to the satisfaction of the international community with the adoption of a new constitution in 2010 and presidential elections in 2013 that were judged to be free and fair. Any continuing political issues seem likely to be debated peacefully with words and not coups or other drastic actions, for the foreseeable future. Madagascar is home to 18 ethnic groups, but the largest and predominant group are the Merina of the central highlands. ===Ecology=== [[File:Katta család.jpg|thumb|250px|Ring-tailed lemur with babies on board.]] {{seealso|Wildlife of Madagascar}} Due to its uniqueness some ecologists refer to it as the "eighth continent". Madagascar is home to nearly 15,000 plant species, with highlights including the massive and ancient baobab trees, the unique spiny forests of the south, over 800 species of orchids, and the dwindling rain forests. Human activity, particularly the fires used for agricultural purposes, have damaged the environment, and since the arrival of humans approximately 90% of the island's original forest has disappeared. Animal life on the island is equally impressive, in particular the more than 100 species of lemurs, nearly all of which are rare or threatened. The island is home to over 300 species of birds, approximately 260 species of reptiles, and a massive number of amphibians and insects. The eastern, or windward side of the island is home to tropical rainforests, while the western and southern sides, which lie in the rain shadow of the central highlands, are home to tropical dry forests, thorn forests, and deserts and xeric shrublands. Madagascar's dry deciduous rain forest has been preserved generally better than the eastern rainforests or the high central plateau, presumably due to historically low population densities. ===Holidays=== * January 1: New Year's Day * March 29: Martyrs Day * Easter (variable) * June 26: Independence Day (celebrates independence from France in 1960) * November 1: All Saints Day * December 25: Christmas ===Climate=== [[File:Fishermen in Nosey Be.jpg|thumb|Fishermen in Nosy Be]] The climate is tropical along the coast, temperate inland, and arid in the south. The weather is dominated by the southeastern trade winds that originate in the Indian Ocean anticyclone, a centre of high atmospheric pressure that seasonally changes its position over the ocean. Madagascar has two seasons: a hot, rainy season from November to April; and a cooler, dry season from May to October. There is great variation in climate owing to elevation and position relative to dominant winds. The east coast has a sub-equatorial climate and, being most directly exposed to the trade winds, has the heaviest rainfall, averaging as much as 3,500 mm (137.8 in) annually. This region is notorious not only for a hot, humid climate in which tropical fevers are endemic but also for the destructive cyclones that occur during the rainy season, coming in principally from the direction of the Mascarene Islands. Because rain clouds discharge much of their moisture east of the highest elevations on the island, the central highlands are appreciably drier and, owing to the altitude, also cooler. Thunderstorms are common during the rainy season in the central highlands, and lightning is a serious hazard. [[Antananarivo]] receives practically all of its average annual 1,400mm (55.1&nbsp;in) of rainfall between November and April. The dry season is pleasant and sunny, although somewhat chilly, especially in the mornings. Although frosts are rare in Antananarivo, they are common at higher elevations. ===Read=== * ''The Eighth Continent: Life, Death, and Discovery in the Lost World of Madagascar'' by Peter Tyson. Extensive descriptions of Madagascar's wildlife, as well as lots of details about Malagasy culture. * ''The Gardens of Mars: Nadagascar, an Island Story'' by John Gimlette. More of a focus on the spectacularly complicated and bloody history of the island's people. * The Bradt Guide to Madagascar ===Tourist information === * [https://madagascar-tourisme.com/en/ Madagascar Tourism] website ==Talk== The entire island speaks one language: [[Malagasy phrasebook|Malagasy]], an Austronesian language. "Malagasy" refers to both the language and the people of the island. Because the island is so large, there are many different dialects. The Merina dialect is the "Official Malagasy" of the island and is spoken around highlands of [[Antananarivo]]. Most Malagasy, however, speak Merina across the island. Attempts by foreigners to learn and speak Malagasy are liked and encouraged by the Malagasy people. Today, Malagasy is the daily language spoken by 98% of the population in Madagascar, and since 1972, Malagasy has been used as the language of instruction in some schools. As an Austronesian language, Malagasy is more closely related to languages spoken in maritime Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands than to other African languages. French is the second official language of Madagascar, and most individuals encountered in parks and other touristy areas will speak fluent French. English is increasingly common and many hotels and parks will have at least a few English-speaking staff. Italian, German, Spanish and Japanese are understood to a lesser extent in areas where tourists are likely to visit. Some basic Malagasy vocabulary that will help relate to the Malagasy people (there are many different regional versions of the Malagasy language across the country): {| class="wikitable" |- ! Malagasy !! English |- | Vazaha || Foreigner |- | Misoatra || Thank you |- | Salama || Hello |- | Veloma || Goodbye |- | Azafady || Please/Sorry/Excuse me |} ==Get in== <!--[[File:Visa policy of Madagascar.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Madagascar]]--> ===Visa=== Visitors from most countries can obtain a ''Madagascar tourist visa'' upon arrival in Madagascar (information accurate as of March 2020). * For stays of up to 14 nights €10 * For stays of up to '''30 days''' US$37 or €35. * For longer stays of up to '''60 days''' US$45 or €40. * The Antananarivo airport visa on arrival counter was no longer issuing 90-day stays as of November 2018. You must pay for the visa with cash: in US dollars or euros. They also ask for an address of your first night stay. You can get a '''30 day visa extension 80.000Ar''' at the Immigration Office at the ministry of the Interior five minutes from Carlton Hotel in Antananarivo or at the commissariat of police offices around Madagascar. The maximum stay on a tourist visa is 90 days. After 90 days, you can go to Reunion or Mauritius then come back. ===Vaccination=== Prior to your trip, you should ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date; these include polio, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, MMR and typhoid (check with your doctor). If you are travelling through a country where yellow fever is present then you will be required to show proof of vaccination for yellow fever before you will be allowed entry into Madagascar. ===By plane=== [[File:Ivato airport in Antananarivo Madagascar.JPG|thumb|250px|Ivato airport in Antananarivo]] International flights to Madagascar generally either go to [[Antananarivo]] ({{IATA|TNR}}) or Nosy Be ({{IATA|NOS}}). '''[https://madagascarairlines.com/en/index.html Madagascar Airlines]''' is the national carrier and offers flights from [[Paris]] Charles de Gaulle, [[Marseille]] and [[Guangzhou]], Other airlines serving Madagascar: * '''[http://www.flyairlink.com Airlink South Africa]''' provides daily flights from [[Johannesburg]]. * '''Air France''' offer flights from Europe, North America, South America via [[Paris]] Charles de Gaulle. * '''Air Austral''' offer flights to [[Antananarivo]], [[Nosy Be]], [[Toamasina]] from [[Paris]], [[Marseille]], [[Bangkok]], [[Chennai]], [[Johannesburg]], [[Mauritius]], [[Seychelles]]. Flights transfer on [[Reunion]] Island. * '''[http://www.airmauritius.com Air Mauritius]''' from Europe, Asia and Australia via [[Mauritius]]. * '''[http://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways]''' operates regular service from Europe, North America, Asia and Africa via [[Nairobi]]. * '''[https://www.turkishairlines.com Turkish Airlines]''' from Europe, North America, South America and Asia via [[Istanbul]] has some low fares but have two stops via Mauritius and Istanbul * '''[https://www.ethiopianairlines.com/AA/EN Ethiopian Airlines]''' from Africa, Europe, North America, South America and Asia via [[Addis Ababa]]. * '''Comores Aviation''' fly from [[Moroni]] and [[Anjouan]] * '''EWA Air''' fly from [[Mahajanga]], [[Antsiranana]], [[Nosy Be]] to [[Mayotte]]. *'''[https://www.emirates.com Emirates]''' fly from [[Dubai]] Expect to pay around 40 000 Ar to get to Tana by taxi, but drivers might easily ask for 60 000 Ar. Otherwise you can get to the Ivato town nearby and take a taxi-be (a local shared taxi bigger than a van) for around 600 Ar. Because you must also buy a seat for your luggage, it will cost 1200 Ar. ===By boat=== The only regular link used to be between [[Toamasina]] on the east coast and [[Mauritius]] via [[Reunion]]. This service has been suspended since December 2014. If you want to enter Madagascar by boat, you'll have to do it as a passenger on a cargo vessel. Doing so is not recommended; if you want to enter Madagascar with a vehicle, it is best to transport it as cargo and fly yourself. ==Get around== ===By plane=== Madagascar Airlines serves 11 destinations throughout the country, and provide a much faster option than driving given the poor state of many roads. While the airline will provide you with a hotel and book you on the next available flight in the case of a cancellation, don't book tight connections and always confirm your flight time the night before. ===By train=== As of 2023 [http://www.madarail.mg/voyages_train_voyageur.php Madarail] operates only one service, a 9-hour trip between Moramanga (115 km east of Antananarivo) and Ambila Lemaitso on the east coast. The railway dates from the colonial period, so breakdowns are frequent due to poor maintenance, and the line may be closed for several weeks. ===By car=== [[File:Sainte marie Madagascar paved road.JPG|right|250px|thumb|Road in Sainte Marie]] Madagascar's roads are almost all of very low grade (with the exception of 2 routes leading out of Tana). Many roads are studded with potholes and are quagmires in the rainy season. Travel by road will almost always take much more time than you would normally expect. Hire of a 4WD vehicle can reduce this problem but the cost will be higher but still very cost effective if you are not travelling alone and able to split the rental fee between the members of your group (at least US$70/day/car as of October 2014). In nearly all cases a car rental will include the cost of a driver and his accommodation, but verify when booking your rental; most companies will not rent a car without a driver, and in many cases the driver can act as your guide and translator as well. ===By taxi-brousse=== [[File:Y Coetsee Inside a taxi-brousse.jpg|thumb|View from inside a taxi-brousse.]] Taxi-brousse, or interurban shared taxi, is the way most natives travel around the country. There are three major modern roads in the country: RN7 from Tana to Toliara, RN2 from Tana to Tomasina (via Brickaville) and RN4 from Tana to Mahajanga. Trips between those towns take about a day, whereas traveling between Tana and Taolagnaro, a south-eastern coastal town, would take about 3 or 4 days due to the condition of the road. Travel is cramped, and don't expect air conditioning. Expect dust to be a problem in the dry season. Travel by taxi-brousse is guaranteed to test one's patience and sanity, but there is quite possibly no better way to meet and interact with the locals and experience Madagascar as the Malagasy do. Taxi-brousse is by far the cheapest way to travel, but do not expect to leave or arrive on time. Indeed, the drivers wait for their 15-seat small buses to get full before leaving; therefore, a few hours' delay is never excluded. However, the trip allows you to admire the breathtaking landscapes of Madagascar. Most national parks and towns can be reached from Antananarivo; drivers will happily drop you off en route to their final destination. *'''Cotisse Transport''' serves [[Mahajanga]], [[Morondava]], [[Fianarantsoa]] and [[Toamasina]]. *'''Besady Plus''' buses leave on time, whether full or not. The provide free wifi and go between Antananarivo and [[Nosy Be]] via [[Ambanja]] and from Antananarivo to [[Sainte Marie]] via [[Toamasina]]. The tickets include sea transfer. ===By taxi-be=== In Tana, the cheapest way to get around is by taxi-be, or big taxi, which is a bit larger than a mini-van. There is one aisle with seats to fold down so they can cram in even more people. During peak season, buses run frequently. Prices are around 600 Ar, as of November 2018, the 183 which is one of the buses going to Cotisse Transport costs 400 Ar. ===By boat=== [[File:Madagascar local car ferry.jpg|thumb|Ferry crossing Manambolo River]] If you are looking for an unusual holiday, a yacht charter to Madagascar might be a good choice. For those who would like to bareboat, a “guide” is usually included in the price of the yacht charter. Although obligatory, he comes with the price and is essential for the multitude of services he will provide. He will prepare the food, recommend anchorages, know where to fish and refill the water tanks. He will speak the local language and have an established relationship with the local people. He will protect the boat from theft when you leave it to explore on land. The guide lives completely on the exterior of the boat and does not require a cabin. A yacht charter to Madagascar is a bit of a “Robinson Crusoe” adventure. Once you embark, you will not be able to stock up provisions again and must live off the fish and seafood you will catch for yourself (or with your guide). So take great care with your provisioning list. This problem can be avoided by chartering one of the crewed catamarans. The boats are designed for stability so sea sickness is not really a problem. The crew prepare the boat with linen, food and drinks before your arrival -basically these boats are like a personal floating hotel. Depending on which boat you choose you could receive excellent service and food and suggestions of where to go and what to do. Choose your catamaran carefully as there are some really old ones in service- make sure the crew can speak your language. ===By bicycle=== [[File:Cyclo-pousse Madagascar 1.jpg|thumb|Cyclo-pousse.]] Madagascar is a great place to tour by [[cycling|bike]] and staying in small towns and villages along the way gives a real sense of what the country is all about. A mountain bike or heavy duty tourer at least is required as the roads can be in poor to terrible condition. In the rainy season on the east coast the main north-south road can become impassable, possibly leading to a two-day walk - over soft sand in one section - this is not an easily rideable route. Generally there is little to no traffic which makes cruising around a great pleasure. The people are amazingly friendly and you'll be greeted with crowds of children shouting 'Vazaha' in every village. There are few or no facilities for cyclists, so be prepared to camp rough (ask if it is somebody's land and never too near a family grave) or sleep in very basic guesthouses. Likely you will be invited to stay in people's houses. Bring a spare tire, puncture kit, chain, brake or gear cable, derailleur and all the tools you need. ==See== [[File:Adansonia grandidieri04.jpg|300px|thumb|Baobab near Morondava]] * {{see | name=Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1405154 | content=is a {{UNESCO}} and is Madagascar's largest reserve (152,000 hectares). The fascinating raised limestone plateau is decorated with a frail, chaotic razor-sharp collection of pinnacles, the “Tsingy”, also called the Labyrinth of Stone. Areas of deciduous forest also provide the chance to see brown lemurs, a variety of bird life and the rare all white Decken’s sifaka. The great variety of flora includes: aloes, orchids, numerous pachypodium and baobabs. The deciduous forest is home to over 50 species of birds; 7 species of lemurs (including the all-white Deckens sifaka) and the rare stump-tailed chameleon (Brookesia perarmata). The site of Bemaraha is managed under special UNESCO and access is restricted and the areas you are allowed to visit vary from time to time. Located approximately 180 km north of [[Morondava]]. }} * {{see | name=Avenue of the Baobabs | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q788084 | content=is an extraordinary stand of huge baobab trees, 45 minutes north of [[Morondava]] on Madagascar's west coast. It is one of the most visited sites in the Menabe Region. A candidate as one of the 7 Wonders of Africa; efforts are underway to protect this unique grove of more than a dozen trees. Some of the trees, Adansonia grandidieri, are over 800 years old and reach a height of more than 30 metres. A photographer's paradise, and especially beautiful at sunset. }} *Sites from the Merina Kingdom can be seen across different parts of Madagascar. ==Do== Most people visiting Madagascar do so for the wildlife, and there are a number of national parks and private reserves scattered throughout the country. Some are easier to reach than others - the dual [[Andasibe-Mantadia National Park]] area is a few hours from the capital via a paved road, while other parks require days of driving and trekking to explore. [[Scuba diving]] and [[snorkeling]] is exceptional in [[Nosy Be]], and is also possible in other areas like [[Toliara]]. Be aware that the nearest hyperbaric chamber lies across the Mozambique Channel, and that outside of Nosy Be scuba equipment may not be up to expected standards, so exercise caution and be careful to minimize risks when diving. The condition of corals varies from pristine at [[Nosy Tanikely]] to completely destroyed elsewhere, and depending on time of year the visibility may exceed 30 metres, or may be reduced to zero by the outflow from rivers, which, due erosion caused by deforestation, can turn the ocean brown. In the far north near Diego [[kitesurfing]] and [[windsurfing]] are exceptional between April and November when a constant 30 knot-wind makes the area one of the best surfing spots in the southern hemisphere. Kayaking and deep sea fishing are always rewarding water activities. The {{UNESCO}} '''Rainforests of the Atsinanana''' is made up of six national parks along the eastern coast of Madagascar; [[Marojejy National Park]], [[Masoala National Park]], [[Zahamena National Park]], [[Ranomafana National Park]], [[Andringitra National Park]] and [[Andohahela National Park]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malagasy ariary | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;Ar | date=January 2025 | USD=4,400 | EUR=5,200 | GBP=6,000 | ZAR=250 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mga-malagasy-ariary XE.com] }} Local money is the '''Malagasy ariary''', denoted by the symbol "'''Ar'''" (ISO code: '''MGA'''). Ariary banknotes come in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000 Ar. The ariary is subdivided into 5 ''iraimbilanja'', making it one of only two non-decimal currencies, but travellers will never have to deal with this minuscule unit of currency. There are ATMs in larger cities and bigger towns where you can withdraw ariary cash with Visa, Visa Electron, Mastercard, Maestro, Union Pay. Diners club, American Express, Discover card. The withdrawal limit is (usually 400,000 Ar). ATMs are frequently ''en panne'' due to connection problems or other technical difficulties. Carry a US dollar or euro emergency reserve with you. '''BFV Societe Generale''' & '''BOA-Bank of Africa''' ATMs have a '''withdraw fee of 8000-10200Ar per withdraw''' for overseas bank cards. All other ATM networks in Madagascar have no withdraw fee at this time. The Seven ATM networks in Madagascar are: *'''AccesBanque''' ATMs take Mastercard, visa card, Union Pay. (no withdraw fee) *'''BGFI''' ATMs only take Visa card. (no withdraw fee) *'''BMOI''' ATMs take only Visa card. (no withdraw fee) *'''BOA-Bank of Africa''' ATMs take only Visa card. *'''BNI''' ATMs take Mastercard and Visa card. (no withdraw fee) *'''BFV Societe Generale''' ATMs take Mastercard, Visa card, Maestro, Union Pay, Diners Club, American Express and Discover cards. *'''MCB-Mauritius Commerce Bank''' ATMs take Mastercard, Visa card, Diners Club and Discover cards. (no withdraw fee). Credit cards are accepted by many hotels, restaurants and shops in Antananarivo and Nosy Be, You may have too pay an extra charge for the credit card commission, which ranges between free and 8%. Occasionally, hotels and other services used by travellers are quoted in euros. Generally, payment in the local currency is expected but euros are usually also accepted. If you wish to pay in euros, clarify the conditions at which the euro price is converted to avoid that a very bad exchange rate is applied. For changing money, as of June 2023, locals will not recommend going to a bank, but rather use the services of a money changer. Money changers are usually ambulant. Ask the receptionist of your accommodation or an expatriate living in Madagascar to recommend you one. Usually, the money changer will come to your hotel for the transaction. You get better rates for large denominations of euros and US dollars and UK pounds and rates are better in Antananarivo than in provincial cities. * '''Socimad''' exchange has a bureau de change (open 24 hours TV) at the Ivato airport, and one in downtown (Lalana Radama 1). ===Shopping=== Vanilla and other spices are cheaper in Madagascar than in Europe or elsewhere, and the quality (especially of vanilla) is very good. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping]] is a matter of much confusion in Madagascar, and is made more confusing because expectations are different when the customer is a foreigner instead of a local. In restaurants and bars you should leave a tip equivalent to ten percent of the total bill. Locals will generally leave far less. If someone helps you with your bags consider a tip equivalent to US$1 per bag. In taxis, rounding the bill upwards is more than sufficient. If you have a private vehicle with a driver, tipping the equivalent of US$10-13 per day is considered extremely generous, while US$5-10 per day is normal for standard service. A good tip for a park guide is approximately US$7-10 per day. Individuals who clean hotel rooms are sometimes not given a salary, so consider leaving a few dollars in the room when you depart (many hotels will have a tip box in the lobby that can also be used to tip the entire staff). When in doubt about how much to tip, consider that even a doctor or university teacher may be making less than 200,000 Ar per month, and remember that in remote areas your tip may set expectations for travelers who follow you, some of whom may be researchers or aid workers with limited funds available (as of October 2018). ==Eat== [[File:Hotely malagasy.jpg|thumb|Hotely malagasy]] The cheapest way to get a meal is to eat at a "hotely". A plate of rice, laoka (malagasy for a side dish accompanying rice) like chicken, beans or pork, and rice water costs about 3000 Ar (2020). For 1000 Ar extra you can get a small glass of homemade yoghurt. Bananas (hundreds of varieties) and rice cakes (Malagasy 'bread') are staple 'street food' and available everywhere. Coffee is very good, usually hand-made by the cup and served very sweet with condensed milk. Steak-frites is available in restaurants in the larger towns. ===Supermarkets=== There are supermarkets all over Madagascar. The four biggest supermarkets chains are Super U, Score, Leader price and Supermaki. All four Western style supermarket chains are well stocked. There are many leader price & Super U-branded goods but also some more local produce (veg, spices, etc.) Super U is slightly cheaper and has many stores in Antananarivo, Mahajanga, Toamasina and Antsirabe. ==Drink== There is no safe tap water so be prepared with bottled water, which is usually easily obtainable. The only other option is ranon'apango (RAN-oo-na-PANG-oo) or rice water (water used to cook rice, which will therefore have been boiled). It's particularly important to plan ahead if visiting rural areas. It is worth taking with you some chlorine tablets, which can be used to make the local water drinkable. In towns, roadside drink stands, stores and bars are plentiful. Most sell a range of drinks including bottled water, Fanta, Coca Cola and Madagascar's beer, Three Horses Beer (THB). You can also try the bubblegum flavoured 'Bonbon Anglais', which is to South American Inka Cola, although it may be sold as 'limonade' - leading you to think it may be lemonade. Home brewed rum, and creme de coco, is also available in many flavours. ==Sleep== Lodging quality varies dramatically throughout the country, from dorm-style rooms to luxury five-star resorts. In most places room prices will be quoted per room, although many luxury resorts quote prices per person. Insect nets and private bathrooms are provided in nearly all of the more upscale lodging, although in lower-priced establishments you may need to provide your own bug net. There are backpacker hostels in a few places with prices from US$5. ==Learn== Learn some Malagasy. The single best thing you can do to have a fun and safe trip is to speak the local language. There are a number of guidebooks you can buy to learn Malagasy, or alternatively you can ask someone to teach you. Just a few words will make all the difference. ==Stay safe== Madagascar is a fairly safe country. You must, however, respect some simple principles: *Don't walk around at night in Antananarivo (other cities are pretty safe). *Don't exhibit signs of wealth (cameras, jewels). *Similarly, always carry small notes. Paying with large denomination notes shows off your wealth, can insult the seller because they will not have change, and opens you up for becoming a target for crime. *Keep an eye on your belongings when using public transport or visiting markets where numerous [[pickpockets]] swarm. *Learn the Malagasy word for thief, "Mpangalatra" which is pronounced "Pun-gul-ah-tra". If someone is trying to rob you in a busy market area scream this. The fact that a vazaha is screaming thief will unsettle the thief and alert the people near you to help. *Always listen for the words "vazaha" or "vazongo" when spoken in low tones. If you hear these words be aware that someone is talking about you, for better or for worse! The centre of Antananarivo should be avoided, as well as the Ankato area, Avenue de L'Independence, Ambohijatovo, Analakely, Bohorika, Isoraka, Ampasamandinika, 67ha, Isotry and the area around the military barracks. Elsewhere in the country, Nosy Be, Toamasina (Tamatave), Mahajunga, Ankarana, Isalo, Montagne d'Ambre Nature Reserve, Tuléar and Batterie Beach, and the RN 7 and RN 27 roads are particularly to be avoided. Like any other developing country, there are a lot of beggars. This is sometimes uncomfortable for tourists, but these people should be respected nonetheless. They are, predictably, attracted to foreigners and will not hesitate to ask for a hand-out. If you don't want to give, a simple "Non, merci" or "Tsy Misy (tsee-meesh)" (I have nothing) will do the trick. If they persist, try shouting "Mandehana! (man-day-han)" (Go Away!) It is recommended not to give money, but other useful items, such as a banana, a piece of bread, etc. It is usually accepted with gratitude, and if the beggar is a child, he will run away with a smile on his face. It is imperative not to encourage begging - in Madagascar the people do not really believe in getting something for nothing and will invariably offer you something first. For example a chameleon to photograph. ==Stay healthy== Visitors to Madagascar should be aware of a vast number of health concerns. Diseases such as the plague, which are almost unheard of elsewhere, still occur in Madagascar. '''[[Drinking water]]''' is almost never safe for foreigners; treated or bottled water should always be used, and salads or dishes containing unpeeled fruits or vegetables should be avoided. While the AIDS epidemic has not reached the devastating level found in many southern African countries, it is widely assumed that the incidence of AIDS is underestimated and rising, so you should take no risks and avoid unprotected sex in all cases. When swimming, beware of the possibility of human waste in the water, which can cause cholera, typhoid, and a number of other diseases. Leeches and tropical parasites are also a concern. Research '''[[malaria]]''' prophylaxis options, and follow through. If you are not taking any prophylactics, be sure to always use a mosquito net for sleeping, and apply mosquito repellents once dusk sets in. On-skin repellent (only repellents containing ~40% DEET are effective, such as NoBite, or Azeron Before Tropics) is good but should be used in combination with on-clothes repellent (i.e., NoBite). The clothes repellent is odorless approximately an hour after application, and clothes can be washed up to 4 times before it needs to be re-applied. If you wear long-sleeve clothing treated with the repellent and apply on-skin repellent to the skin parts not covered, you will be very safe against mosquito bites and can skip the prophylaxis with its notorious side effects. Take the repellent issue seriously, though, as it's very easy to fall into a more 'relaxed' mode after you've spent some time in the country. Areas inhabited by humans will invariably have large populations of stray dogs. Avoid stray dogs, and although bites are rare, if bitten seek medical assistance promptly as rabies is not unheard of. Remember that Madagascar is in the tropics and take precautions against sunburn and heat exhaustion seriously. Wear lots of sunscreen and keep hydrated. A cloudy day does not mean you won't get burnt. ==Respect== [[File:Madagascar74.182.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Picture of a tomb taken in the 70s]] Everyday life in Madagascar is regulated by numerous ''fady'' (taboos) which vary from one region to another. They can forbid foods (lemur, turtle, beef), wearing clothes of a particular colour, bathing in a river or a lake, etc. Observance of "Fady" is mostly limited to rural areas, as tourists will most likely not encounter this problem if they stay in the main towns. However, there are Fadys in places such as Antananarivo but most vazaha are exempt. Fady are attributed to ancestors, to whom Malagasy adopt a respectful attitude whatever their religion. It is safest to respect these prohibitions and not violate them, even if you feel they don't make sense. Inform yourself about local fady when you arrive in a new place. When addressing anyone older than you or in a position of authority (e.g. police, military, customs officials), use the word "tompoko (toom-pook)" the same way you would use "Sir" or "Ma'am" in English. Respect for elders and authority figures is important in Madagascar. Do not ever take photos of a tomb without permission. Always ask permission before taking photos. Also, if you go to a remote village or hamlet it is fomba or tradition that you first meet with the head of the village if you have business in the village. Meeting this person can save you a lot of time if you have work to do there. ==Connect== International phone calls and 4G Internet via data can be done via cell phone companies such as '''Airtel''', '''Orange''' or '''Telma''' they work off prepaid phone cards. International phone calls using Telma to Europe cost 900 Ar per minute. There are also Internet cafes in the major cities and most large towns. Electricity may be erratic. Many areas have either mandatory shutdown hours or rationing. It's best to bring an openline smart phone and buy a SIM card when you get to Madagascar. It's also useful to have a powerbank. Most hotels now also have Wi-Fi. You can also easily buy a SIM card from anyone of the cell phone companies and get a data plan. The process is fairly easy compared to other countries and SIM cards can be bought directly in the airport with the whole activation and buying process being done in less than 10 minutes. SIM cards and credit are also among the few things you can easily get hold of throughout the country, including in provincial towns and small rural villages. As of December 2018, a 12GB data plan good for 30 days is 75 000 Ar. Do not expect a data connection everywhere on the island, but when you do have data connection, the fast 4G network is fairly impressive and allows free [[Internet telephony|VoIP calls]]. Telma sells their SIM cards for 500 Ar. Orange sells their SIM card for 2000 Ar. A stamp for a postcard to anywhere in Europe costs 1100 Ar. {{related|Islands of the Indian Ocean}} {{usablecountry}} {{isPartOf|East African Islands}} {{geo|-20|47|zoom=7}} auqnsk58ehabb7xuvab2wu1ofx8ixgx 5091273 5091271 2025-07-11T09:52:35Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091273 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Madagascar_banner.jpg|caption=Landscape near Fianarantsoa}} '''Madagascar''' is a country in the [[Indian Ocean]] off the eastern coast of [[Africa]]. It is known for its particularly unique wildlife and flora. Madagascar split from India approximately 88 million years ago, and as a result of its long isolation it is home to a massive number of unique plant and animal species, with over 90% of its wildlife and 80% of its plants found nowhere else on the planet. ==Regions== [[File:Madagascar Regions map.png|thumb|right|400px|Map of Madagascar with regions colour coded]] {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Antananarivo Province]] | region1color=#e9ea6c | region1items=[[Antananarivo]], [[Antsirabe]] | region1description=The capital is the arrival point for many visitors, and the hub of the domestic airline and land transport routes. Outside of the capital are small towns known for their craft workshops, as well as small reserves that are home to lemurs. | region2name=[[Antsiranana Province]] | region2color=#c0e0a6 | region2items=[[Antsiranana]], [[Masoala National Park]], [[Nosy Be]] | region2description=Home to the beautiful tropical island of [[Nosy Be]], and its surrounding sub-islands, this region is where most travellers go for upscale resorts and pristine beaches, and is one of the most popular destinations in the entire country. | region3name=[[Fianarantsoa Province]] | region3color=#69999f | region3items=[[Fianarantsoa]], [[Ambositra]], [[Ambalavao]], [[Andringitra National Park]], [[Ranomafana National Park]] | region3description=The area south of the capital is home to rain forests and mountains, and relatively accessible via RN7. | region4name=[[Mahajanga Province]] | region4color=#71b37b | region4items=[[Mahajanga]], [[Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve]] | region4description=Mahajanga is home to impressive wetlands and some hidden resorts that can be reached only by private plane or boat. | region5name=[[Toamasina Province]] | region5color=#507027 | region5items=[[Toamasina]], [[Vatomandry]], [[Ile aux Nattes]], [[Andasibe-Mantadia National Park]] | region5description=This province is home to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, where the Indri lemurs sing, and to some less-visited destinations along the eastern coast. | region6name=[[Toliara Province]] | region6color=#aba58b | region6items=[[Toliara]], [[Anakao]], [[Isalo National Park]] | region6description=The southern portion of the country is the land of the spiny forest, with hot and dry conditions leading to an environment of harsh vegetation that is nevertheless home to a vast array of lemurs, lizards, birds and insects. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#e9ea6c|title=[[Antananarivo Province]]|wikidata=Q489821}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c0e0a6|title=[[Antsiranana Province]]|wikidata=Q656073}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#69999f|title=[[Fianarantsoa Province]]|wikidata=Q841197}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Mahajanga Province]]|wikidata=Q218753}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#507027|title=[[Toamasina Province]]|wikidata=Q639418}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#aba58b|title=[[Toliara Province]]|wikidata=Q162020}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|||zoom=|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Antananarivo]]|url=|lat=-18.91|long=47.53|wikidata=Q3915}}- the capital and usually called ''Tana'' by locals. *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Ambalavao]]|url=|lat=-21.83|long=46.94|wikidata=Q2092364}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Ambositra]]|url=|lat=-20.53|long=47.25|wikidata=Q458440}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Antsirabe]]|url=|lat=-19.87|long=47.03|wikidata=Q583184}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Fianarantsoa]]|url=|lat=-21.45|long=47.09|wikidata=Q527441}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Ihosy]]|url=|lat=-22.41|long=46.13|wikidata=Q1657947}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Morondava]]|url=|lat=-20.29|long=44.28|wikidata=Q864109}} *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Taolagnaro]]|url=|lat=-25.03|long=46.99|wikidata=Q526568}} (''also commonly known as Fort Dauphin'') *{{listing|type=city|name=[[Toliara]]|url=|lat=-23.35|long=43.67|wikidata=Q824043}} (''also commonly known as Tulear'') ==Other destinations== *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Anakao]]|url=|lat=-23.66|long=43.65|wikidata=Q2845132}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Andasibe-Mantadia National Park]]|url=|lat=-18.94|long=48.43|wikidata=Q2519690}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Andringitra National Park]]|url=|lat=-22.22|long=46.93|wikidata=Q1116933}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Ile aux Nattes]]|url=|lat=-17.11|long=49.81|wikidata=Q292248}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Isalo National Park]]|url=|lat=-22.47|long=45.26|wikidata=Q120414}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Masoala National Park]]|url=|lat=-15.52|long=50.17|wikidata=Q964116}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Nosy Be]]|url=|lat=-13.35|long=48.28|wikidata=Q1330558}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Ranomafana National Park]]|url=|lat=-21.23|long=47.42|wikidata=Q1498242}} *{{listing|type=vicinity|name=[[Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve]]|url=|lat=-18.48|long=44.75|wikidata=Q1405154}} ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMadagascar.png}} ===History=== Madagascar's first settlers, the [[Indigenous Taiwanese culture|Austronesians]], likely arrived in the mid-1st millennium CE. The island's first inhabitants are believed to have come from both Southeast Asia and East Africa. Madagascar saw the rise of various powerful kingdoms and chiefdoms. Among them was the Merina Kingdom in the central highlands, which began to dominate in the 15th century. The Merina people developed a sophisticated political structure. [[French Colonial Empire|France]] began to show interest in Madagascar in the 17th century, setting up trading posts along the coast. The French influence grew in the 18th century, particularly as they sought to exploit resources, including valuable timber and spices. In 1896, after a period of escalating tensions, France formally made Madagascar a colony. The French imposed harsh rule, leading to resistance movements, such as the uprising of 1947, which was brutally suppressed. A movement for independence led by figures like Philippe Tsiranana gained support and Madagascar gained independence from France on 26 June 1960, when he became the first president. In the 21st century, Madagascar experienced political instability, including the controversial election of 2001 that led to protests and a military coup in 2009 that ousted President Marc Ravalomanana. The political situation has improved since then, but the country still faces challenges in terms of economic development. ===People=== Despite its proximity to Africa, language and DNA studies show that the people of Madagascar are predominantly ethnically [[Austronesian]]; their ancestors between 350 BCE and 550 CE. Later, around 1000 CE, migrants crossed the Mozambique Channel and arrived from East Africa, and were followed by Arabs, Indians, and Chinese immigrants. The Malagasy way of thinking, as well as their appearance and fashion style, is a mixture of cultures. Madagascar is part of the African Union, but was suspended from the organization from 2009 to 2013. There was political turmoil in Madagascar in 2002 and again between 2009 and 2010, which led to a decrease in tourism, but the situation was resolved to the satisfaction of the international community with the adoption of a new constitution in 2010 and presidential elections in 2013 that were judged to be free and fair. Any continuing political issues seem likely to be debated peacefully with words and not coups or other drastic actions, for the foreseeable future. Madagascar is home to 18 ethnic groups, but the largest and predominant group are the Merina of the central highlands. ===Ecology=== [[File:Katta család.jpg|thumb|250px|Ring-tailed lemur with babies on board.]] {{seealso|Wildlife of Madagascar}} Due to its uniqueness some ecologists refer to it as the "eighth continent". Madagascar is home to nearly 15,000 plant species, with highlights including the massive and ancient baobab trees, the unique spiny forests of the south, over 800 species of orchids, and the dwindling rain forests. Human activity, particularly the fires used for agricultural purposes, have damaged the environment, and since the arrival of humans approximately 90% of the island's original forest has disappeared. Animal life on the island is equally impressive, in particular the more than 100 species of lemurs, nearly all of which are rare or threatened. The island is home to over 300 species of birds, approximately 260 species of reptiles, and a massive number of amphibians and insects. The eastern, or windward side of the island is home to tropical rainforests, while the western and southern sides, which lie in the rain shadow of the central highlands, are home to tropical dry forests, thorn forests, and deserts and xeric shrublands. Madagascar's dry deciduous rain forest has been preserved generally better than the eastern rainforests or the high central plateau, presumably due to historically low population densities. ===Holidays=== * January 1: New Year's Day * March 29: Martyrs Day * Easter (variable) * June 26: Independence Day (celebrates independence from France in 1960) * November 1: All Saints Day * December 25: Christmas ===Climate=== [[File:Fishermen in Nosey Be.jpg|thumb|Fishermen in Nosy Be]] The climate is tropical along the coast, temperate inland, and arid in the south. The weather is dominated by the southeastern trade winds that originate in the Indian Ocean anticyclone, a centre of high atmospheric pressure that seasonally changes its position over the ocean. Madagascar has two seasons: a hot, rainy season from November to April; and a cooler, dry season from May to October. There is great variation in climate owing to elevation and position relative to dominant winds. The east coast has a sub-equatorial climate and, being most directly exposed to the trade winds, has the heaviest rainfall, averaging as much as 3,500 mm (137.8 in) annually. This region is notorious not only for a hot, humid climate in which tropical fevers are endemic but also for the destructive cyclones that occur during the rainy season, coming in principally from the direction of the Mascarene Islands. Because rain clouds discharge much of their moisture east of the highest elevations on the island, the central highlands are appreciably drier and, owing to the altitude, also cooler. Thunderstorms are common during the rainy season in the central highlands, and lightning is a serious hazard. [[Antananarivo]] receives practically all of its average annual 1,400mm (55.1&nbsp;in) of rainfall between November and April. The dry season is pleasant and sunny, although somewhat chilly, especially in the mornings. Although frosts are rare in Antananarivo, they are common at higher elevations. ===Read=== * ''The Eighth Continent: Life, Death, and Discovery in the Lost World of Madagascar'' by Peter Tyson. Extensive descriptions of Madagascar's wildlife, as well as lots of details about Malagasy culture. * ''The Gardens of Mars: Nadagascar, an Island Story'' by John Gimlette. More of a focus on the spectacularly complicated and bloody history of the island's people. * The Bradt Guide to Madagascar ===Tourist information === * [https://madagascar-tourisme.com/en/ Madagascar Tourism] website ==Talk== The entire island speaks one language: [[Malagasy phrasebook|Malagasy]], an Austronesian language. "Malagasy" refers to both the language and the people of the island. Because the island is so large, there are many different dialects. The Merina dialect is the "Official Malagasy" of the island and is spoken around highlands of [[Antananarivo]]. Most Malagasy, however, speak Merina across the island. Attempts by foreigners to learn and speak Malagasy are liked and encouraged by the Malagasy people. Today, Malagasy is the daily language spoken by 98% of the population in Madagascar, and since 1972, Malagasy has been used as the language of instruction in some schools. As an Austronesian language, Malagasy is more closely related to languages spoken in maritime Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands than to other African languages. French is the second official language of Madagascar, and most individuals encountered in parks and other touristy areas will speak fluent French. English is increasingly common and many hotels and parks will have at least a few English-speaking staff. Italian, German, Spanish and Japanese are understood to a lesser extent in areas where tourists are likely to visit. Some basic Malagasy vocabulary that will help relate to the Malagasy people (there are many different regional versions of the Malagasy language across the country): {| class="wikitable" |- ! Malagasy !! English |- | Vazaha || Foreigner |- | Misoatra || Thank you |- | Salama || Hello |- | Veloma || Goodbye |- | Azafady || Please/Sorry/Excuse me |} ==Get in== <!--[[File:Visa policy of Madagascar.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Madagascar]]--> ===Visa=== Visitors from most countries can obtain a ''Madagascar tourist visa'' upon arrival in Madagascar (information accurate as of March 2020). * For stays of up to 14 nights €10 * For stays of up to '''30 days''' US$37 or €35. * For longer stays of up to '''60 days''' US$45 or €40. * The Antananarivo airport visa on arrival counter was no longer issuing 90-day stays as of November 2018. You must pay for the visa with cash: in US dollars or euros. They also ask for an address of your first night stay. You can get a '''30 day visa extension 80.000Ar''' at the Immigration Office at the ministry of the Interior five minutes from Carlton Hotel in Antananarivo or at the commissariat of police offices around Madagascar. The maximum stay on a tourist visa is 90 days. After 90 days, you can go to Reunion or Mauritius then come back. ===Vaccination=== Prior to your trip, you should ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date; these include polio, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, MMR and typhoid (check with your doctor). If you are travelling through a country where yellow fever is present then you will be required to show proof of vaccination for yellow fever before you will be allowed entry into Madagascar. ===By plane=== [[File:Ivato airport in Antananarivo Madagascar.JPG|thumb|250px|Ivato airport in Antananarivo]] International flights to Madagascar generally either go to [[Antananarivo]] ({{IATA|TNR}}) or Nosy Be ({{IATA|NOS}}). '''[https://madagascarairlines.com/en/index.html Madagascar Airlines]''' is the national carrier and offers flights from [[Paris]] Charles de Gaulle, [[Marseille]] and [[Guangzhou]], Other airlines serving Madagascar: * '''[http://www.flyairlink.com Airlink South Africa]''' provides daily flights from [[Johannesburg]]. * '''Air France''' offer flights from Europe, North America, South America via [[Paris]] Charles de Gaulle. * '''Air Austral''' offer flights to [[Antananarivo]], [[Nosy Be]], [[Toamasina]] from [[Paris]], [[Marseille]], [[Bangkok]], [[Chennai]], [[Johannesburg]], [[Mauritius]], [[Seychelles]]. Flights transfer on [[Reunion]] Island. * '''[http://www.airmauritius.com Air Mauritius]''' from Europe, Asia and Australia via [[Mauritius]]. * '''[http://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways]''' operates regular service from Europe, North America, Asia and Africa via [[Nairobi]]. * '''[https://www.turkishairlines.com Turkish Airlines]''' from Europe, North America, South America and Asia via [[Istanbul]] has some low fares but have two stops via Mauritius and Istanbul * '''[https://www.ethiopianairlines.com/AA/EN Ethiopian Airlines]''' from Africa, Europe, North America, South America and Asia via [[Addis Ababa]]. * '''Comores Aviation''' fly from [[Moroni]] and [[Anjouan]] * '''EWA Air''' fly from [[Mahajanga]], [[Antsiranana]], [[Nosy Be]] to [[Mayotte]]. *'''[https://www.emirates.com Emirates]''' fly from [[Dubai]] Expect to pay around 40 000 Ar to get to Tana by taxi, but drivers might easily ask for 60 000 Ar. Otherwise you can get to the Ivato town nearby and take a taxi-be (a local shared taxi bigger than a van) for around 600 Ar. Because you must also buy a seat for your luggage, it will cost 1200 Ar. ===By boat=== The only regular link used to be between [[Toamasina]] on the east coast and [[Mauritius]] via [[Reunion]]. This service has been suspended since December 2014. If you want to enter Madagascar by boat, you'll have to do it as a passenger on a cargo vessel. Doing so is not recommended; if you want to enter Madagascar with a vehicle, it is best to transport it as cargo and fly yourself. ==Get around== ===By plane=== Madagascar Airlines serves 11 destinations throughout the country, and provide a much faster option than driving given the poor state of many roads. While the airline will provide you with a hotel and book you on the next available flight in the case of a cancellation, don't book tight connections and always confirm your flight time the night before. ===By train=== As of 2023 [http://www.madarail.mg/voyages_train_voyageur.php Madarail] operates only one service, a 9-hour trip between Moramanga (115 km east of Antananarivo) and Ambila Lemaitso on the east coast. The railway dates from the colonial period, so breakdowns are frequent due to poor maintenance, and the line may be closed for several weeks. ===By car=== [[File:Sainte marie Madagascar paved road.JPG|right|250px|thumb|Road in Sainte Marie]] Madagascar's roads are almost all of very low grade (with the exception of 2 routes leading out of Tana). Many roads are studded with potholes and are quagmires in the rainy season. Travel by road will almost always take much more time than you would normally expect. Hire of a 4WD vehicle can reduce this problem but the cost will be higher but still very cost effective if you are not travelling alone and able to split the rental fee between the members of your group (at least US$70/day/car as of October 2014). In nearly all cases a car rental will include the cost of a driver and his accommodation, but verify when booking your rental; most companies will not rent a car without a driver, and in many cases the driver can act as your guide and translator as well. ===By taxi-brousse=== [[File:Y Coetsee Inside a taxi-brousse.jpg|thumb|View from inside a taxi-brousse.]] Taxi-brousse, or interurban shared taxi, is the way most natives travel around the country. There are three major modern roads in the country: RN7 from Tana to Toliara, RN2 from Tana to Tomasina (via Brickaville) and RN4 from Tana to Mahajanga. Trips between those towns take about a day, whereas traveling between Tana and Taolagnaro, a south-eastern coastal town, would take about 3 or 4 days due to the condition of the road. Travel is cramped, and don't expect air conditioning. Expect dust to be a problem in the dry season. Travel by taxi-brousse is guaranteed to test one's patience and sanity, but there is quite possibly no better way to meet and interact with the locals and experience Madagascar as the Malagasy do. Taxi-brousse is by far the cheapest way to travel, but do not expect to leave or arrive on time. Indeed, the drivers wait for their 15-seat small buses to get full before leaving; therefore, a few hours' delay is never excluded. However, the trip allows you to admire the breathtaking landscapes of Madagascar. Most national parks and towns can be reached from Antananarivo; drivers will happily drop you off en route to their final destination. *'''Cotisse Transport''' serves [[Mahajanga]], [[Morondava]], [[Fianarantsoa]] and [[Toamasina]]. *'''Besady Plus''' buses leave on time, whether full or not. The provide free wifi and go between Antananarivo and [[Nosy Be]] via [[Ambanja]] and from Antananarivo to [[Sainte Marie]] via [[Toamasina]]. The tickets include sea transfer. ===By taxi-be=== In Tana, the cheapest way to get around is by taxi-be, or big taxi, which is a bit larger than a mini-van. There is one aisle with seats to fold down so they can cram in even more people. During peak season, buses run frequently. Prices are around 600 Ar, as of November 2018, the 183 which is one of the buses going to Cotisse Transport costs 400 Ar. ===By boat=== [[File:Madagascar local car ferry.jpg|thumb|Ferry crossing Manambolo River]] If you are looking for an unusual holiday, a yacht charter to Madagascar might be a good choice. For those who would like to bareboat, a “guide” is usually included in the price of the yacht charter. Although obligatory, he comes with the price and is essential for the multitude of services he will provide. He will prepare the food, recommend anchorages, know where to fish and refill the water tanks. He will speak the local language and have an established relationship with the local people. He will protect the boat from theft when you leave it to explore on land. The guide lives completely on the exterior of the boat and does not require a cabin. A yacht charter to Madagascar is a bit of a “Robinson Crusoe” adventure. Once you embark, you will not be able to stock up provisions again and must live off the fish and seafood you will catch for yourself (or with your guide). So take great care with your provisioning list. This problem can be avoided by chartering one of the crewed catamarans. The boats are designed for stability so sea sickness is not really a problem. The crew prepare the boat with linen, food and drinks before your arrival -basically these boats are like a personal floating hotel. Depending on which boat you choose you could receive excellent service and food and suggestions of where to go and what to do. Choose your catamaran carefully as there are some really old ones in service- make sure the crew can speak your language. ===By bicycle=== [[File:Cyclo-pousse Madagascar 1.jpg|thumb|Cyclo-pousse.]] Madagascar is a great place to tour by [[cycling|bike]] and staying in small towns and villages along the way gives a real sense of what the country is all about. A mountain bike or heavy duty tourer at least is required as the roads can be in poor to terrible condition. In the rainy season on the east coast the main north-south road can become impassable, possibly leading to a two-day walk - over soft sand in one section - this is not an easily rideable route. Generally there is little to no traffic which makes cruising around a great pleasure. The people are amazingly friendly and you'll be greeted with crowds of children shouting 'Vazaha' in every village. There are few or no facilities for cyclists, so be prepared to camp rough (ask if it is somebody's land and never too near a family grave) or sleep in very basic guesthouses. Likely you will be invited to stay in people's houses. Bring a spare tire, puncture kit, chain, brake or gear cable, derailleur and all the tools you need. ==See== [[File:Adansonia grandidieri04.jpg|300px|thumb|Baobab near Morondava]] * {{see | name=Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1405154 | content=is a {{UNESCO}} and is Madagascar's largest reserve (152,000 hectares). The fascinating raised limestone plateau is decorated with a frail, chaotic razor-sharp collection of pinnacles, the “Tsingy”, also called the Labyrinth of Stone. Areas of deciduous forest also provide the chance to see brown lemurs, a variety of bird life and the rare all white Decken’s sifaka. The great variety of flora includes: aloes, orchids, numerous pachypodium and baobabs. The deciduous forest is home to over 50 species of birds; 7 species of lemurs (including the all-white Deckens sifaka) and the rare stump-tailed chameleon (Brookesia perarmata). The site of Bemaraha is managed under special UNESCO and access is restricted and the areas you are allowed to visit vary from time to time. Located approximately 180 km north of [[Morondava]]. }} * {{see | name=Avenue of the Baobabs | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q788084 | content=is an extraordinary stand of huge baobab trees, 45 minutes north of [[Morondava]] on Madagascar's west coast. It is one of the most visited sites in the Menabe Region. A candidate as one of the 7 Wonders of Africa; efforts are underway to protect this unique grove of more than a dozen trees. Some of the trees, Adansonia grandidieri, are over 800 years old and reach a height of more than 30 metres. A photographer's paradise, and especially beautiful at sunset. }} *Sites from the Merina Kingdom can be seen across different parts of Madagascar. ==Do== Most people visiting Madagascar do so for the wildlife, and there are a number of national parks and private reserves scattered throughout the country. Some are easier to reach than others - the dual [[Andasibe-Mantadia National Park]] area is a few hours from the capital via a paved road, while other parks require days of driving and trekking to explore. [[Scuba diving]] and [[snorkeling]] is exceptional in [[Nosy Be]], and is also possible in other areas like [[Toliara]]. Be aware that the nearest hyperbaric chamber lies across the Mozambique Channel, and that outside of Nosy Be scuba equipment may not be up to expected standards, so exercise caution and be careful to minimize risks when diving. The condition of corals varies from pristine at [[Nosy Tanikely]] to completely destroyed elsewhere, and depending on time of year the visibility may exceed 30 metres, or may be reduced to zero by the outflow from rivers, which, due erosion caused by deforestation, can turn the ocean brown. In the far north near Diego [[kitesurfing]] and [[windsurfing]] are exceptional between April and November when a constant 30 knot-wind makes the area one of the best surfing spots in the southern hemisphere. Kayaking and deep sea fishing are always rewarding water activities. The {{UNESCO}} '''Rainforests of the Atsinanana''' is made up of six national parks along the eastern coast of Madagascar; [[Marojejy National Park]], [[Masoala National Park]], [[Zahamena National Park]], [[Ranomafana National Park]], [[Andringitra National Park]] and [[Andohahela National Park]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malagasy ariary | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;Ar | date=July 2025 | USD=4,400 | EUR=5,200 | GBP=6,000 | ZAR=250 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mga-malagasy-ariary XE.com] }} Local money is the '''Malagasy ariary''', denoted by the symbol "'''Ar'''" (ISO code: '''MGA'''). Ariary banknotes come in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000 Ar. The ariary is subdivided into 5 ''iraimbilanja'', making it one of only two non-decimal currencies, but travellers will never have to deal with this minuscule unit of currency. There are ATMs in larger cities and bigger towns where you can withdraw ariary cash with Visa, Visa Electron, Mastercard, Maestro, Union Pay. Diners club, American Express, Discover card. The withdrawal limit is (usually 400,000 Ar). ATMs are frequently ''en panne'' due to connection problems or other technical difficulties. Carry a US dollar or euro emergency reserve with you. '''BFV Societe Generale''' & '''BOA-Bank of Africa''' ATMs have a '''withdraw fee of 8000-10200Ar per withdraw''' for overseas bank cards. All other ATM networks in Madagascar have no withdraw fee at this time. The Seven ATM networks in Madagascar are: *'''AccesBanque''' ATMs take Mastercard, visa card, Union Pay. (no withdraw fee) *'''BGFI''' ATMs only take Visa card. (no withdraw fee) *'''BMOI''' ATMs take only Visa card. (no withdraw fee) *'''BOA-Bank of Africa''' ATMs take only Visa card. *'''BNI''' ATMs take Mastercard and Visa card. (no withdraw fee) *'''BFV Societe Generale''' ATMs take Mastercard, Visa card, Maestro, Union Pay, Diners Club, American Express and Discover cards. *'''MCB-Mauritius Commerce Bank''' ATMs take Mastercard, Visa card, Diners Club and Discover cards. (no withdraw fee). Credit cards are accepted by many hotels, restaurants and shops in Antananarivo and Nosy Be, You may have too pay an extra charge for the credit card commission, which ranges between free and 8%. Occasionally, hotels and other services used by travellers are quoted in euros. Generally, payment in the local currency is expected but euros are usually also accepted. If you wish to pay in euros, clarify the conditions at which the euro price is converted to avoid that a very bad exchange rate is applied. For changing money, as of June 2023, locals will not recommend going to a bank, but rather use the services of a money changer. Money changers are usually ambulant. Ask the receptionist of your accommodation or an expatriate living in Madagascar to recommend you one. Usually, the money changer will come to your hotel for the transaction. You get better rates for large denominations of euros and US dollars and UK pounds and rates are better in Antananarivo than in provincial cities. * '''Socimad''' exchange has a bureau de change (open 24 hours TV) at the Ivato airport, and one in downtown (Lalana Radama 1). ===Shopping=== Vanilla and other spices are cheaper in Madagascar than in Europe or elsewhere, and the quality (especially of vanilla) is very good. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping]] is a matter of much confusion in Madagascar, and is made more confusing because expectations are different when the customer is a foreigner instead of a local. In restaurants and bars you should leave a tip equivalent to ten percent of the total bill. Locals will generally leave far less. If someone helps you with your bags consider a tip equivalent to US$1 per bag. In taxis, rounding the bill upwards is more than sufficient. If you have a private vehicle with a driver, tipping the equivalent of US$10-13 per day is considered extremely generous, while US$5-10 per day is normal for standard service. A good tip for a park guide is approximately US$7-10 per day. Individuals who clean hotel rooms are sometimes not given a salary, so consider leaving a few dollars in the room when you depart (many hotels will have a tip box in the lobby that can also be used to tip the entire staff). When in doubt about how much to tip, consider that even a doctor or university teacher may be making less than 200,000 Ar per month, and remember that in remote areas your tip may set expectations for travelers who follow you, some of whom may be researchers or aid workers with limited funds available (as of October 2018). ==Eat== [[File:Hotely malagasy.jpg|thumb|Hotely malagasy]] The cheapest way to get a meal is to eat at a "hotely". A plate of rice, laoka (malagasy for a side dish accompanying rice) like chicken, beans or pork, and rice water costs about 3000 Ar (2020). For 1000 Ar extra you can get a small glass of homemade yoghurt. Bananas (hundreds of varieties) and rice cakes (Malagasy 'bread') are staple 'street food' and available everywhere. Coffee is very good, usually hand-made by the cup and served very sweet with condensed milk. Steak-frites is available in restaurants in the larger towns. ===Supermarkets=== There are supermarkets all over Madagascar. The four biggest supermarkets chains are Super U, Score, Leader price and Supermaki. All four Western style supermarket chains are well stocked. There are many leader price & Super U-branded goods but also some more local produce (veg, spices, etc.) Super U is slightly cheaper and has many stores in Antananarivo, Mahajanga, Toamasina and Antsirabe. ==Drink== There is no safe tap water so be prepared with bottled water, which is usually easily obtainable. The only other option is ranon'apango (RAN-oo-na-PANG-oo) or rice water (water used to cook rice, which will therefore have been boiled). It's particularly important to plan ahead if visiting rural areas. It is worth taking with you some chlorine tablets, which can be used to make the local water drinkable. In towns, roadside drink stands, stores and bars are plentiful. Most sell a range of drinks including bottled water, Fanta, Coca Cola and Madagascar's beer, Three Horses Beer (THB). You can also try the bubblegum flavoured 'Bonbon Anglais', which is to South American Inka Cola, although it may be sold as 'limonade' - leading you to think it may be lemonade. Home brewed rum, and creme de coco, is also available in many flavours. ==Sleep== Lodging quality varies dramatically throughout the country, from dorm-style rooms to luxury five-star resorts. In most places room prices will be quoted per room, although many luxury resorts quote prices per person. Insect nets and private bathrooms are provided in nearly all of the more upscale lodging, although in lower-priced establishments you may need to provide your own bug net. There are backpacker hostels in a few places with prices from US$5. ==Learn== Learn some Malagasy. The single best thing you can do to have a fun and safe trip is to speak the local language. There are a number of guidebooks you can buy to learn Malagasy, or alternatively you can ask someone to teach you. Just a few words will make all the difference. ==Stay safe== Madagascar is a fairly safe country. You must, however, respect some simple principles: *Don't walk around at night in Antananarivo (other cities are pretty safe). *Don't exhibit signs of wealth (cameras, jewels). *Similarly, always carry small notes. Paying with large denomination notes shows off your wealth, can insult the seller because they will not have change, and opens you up for becoming a target for crime. *Keep an eye on your belongings when using public transport or visiting markets where numerous [[pickpockets]] swarm. *Learn the Malagasy word for thief, "Mpangalatra" which is pronounced "Pun-gul-ah-tra". If someone is trying to rob you in a busy market area scream this. The fact that a vazaha is screaming thief will unsettle the thief and alert the people near you to help. *Always listen for the words "vazaha" or "vazongo" when spoken in low tones. If you hear these words be aware that someone is talking about you, for better or for worse! The centre of Antananarivo should be avoided, as well as the Ankato area, Avenue de L'Independence, Ambohijatovo, Analakely, Bohorika, Isoraka, Ampasamandinika, 67ha, Isotry and the area around the military barracks. Elsewhere in the country, Nosy Be, Toamasina (Tamatave), Mahajunga, Ankarana, Isalo, Montagne d'Ambre Nature Reserve, Tuléar and Batterie Beach, and the RN 7 and RN 27 roads are particularly to be avoided. Like any other developing country, there are a lot of beggars. This is sometimes uncomfortable for tourists, but these people should be respected nonetheless. They are, predictably, attracted to foreigners and will not hesitate to ask for a hand-out. If you don't want to give, a simple "Non, merci" or "Tsy Misy (tsee-meesh)" (I have nothing) will do the trick. If they persist, try shouting "Mandehana! (man-day-han)" (Go Away!) It is recommended not to give money, but other useful items, such as a banana, a piece of bread, etc. It is usually accepted with gratitude, and if the beggar is a child, he will run away with a smile on his face. It is imperative not to encourage begging - in Madagascar the people do not really believe in getting something for nothing and will invariably offer you something first. For example a chameleon to photograph. ==Stay healthy== Visitors to Madagascar should be aware of a vast number of health concerns. Diseases such as the plague, which are almost unheard of elsewhere, still occur in Madagascar. '''[[Drinking water]]''' is almost never safe for foreigners; treated or bottled water should always be used, and salads or dishes containing unpeeled fruits or vegetables should be avoided. While the AIDS epidemic has not reached the devastating level found in many southern African countries, it is widely assumed that the incidence of AIDS is underestimated and rising, so you should take no risks and avoid unprotected sex in all cases. When swimming, beware of the possibility of human waste in the water, which can cause cholera, typhoid, and a number of other diseases. Leeches and tropical parasites are also a concern. Research '''[[malaria]]''' prophylaxis options, and follow through. If you are not taking any prophylactics, be sure to always use a mosquito net for sleeping, and apply mosquito repellents once dusk sets in. On-skin repellent (only repellents containing ~40% DEET are effective, such as NoBite, or Azeron Before Tropics) is good but should be used in combination with on-clothes repellent (i.e., NoBite). The clothes repellent is odorless approximately an hour after application, and clothes can be washed up to 4 times before it needs to be re-applied. If you wear long-sleeve clothing treated with the repellent and apply on-skin repellent to the skin parts not covered, you will be very safe against mosquito bites and can skip the prophylaxis with its notorious side effects. Take the repellent issue seriously, though, as it's very easy to fall into a more 'relaxed' mode after you've spent some time in the country. Areas inhabited by humans will invariably have large populations of stray dogs. Avoid stray dogs, and although bites are rare, if bitten seek medical assistance promptly as rabies is not unheard of. Remember that Madagascar is in the tropics and take precautions against sunburn and heat exhaustion seriously. Wear lots of sunscreen and keep hydrated. A cloudy day does not mean you won't get burnt. ==Respect== [[File:Madagascar74.182.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Picture of a tomb taken in the 70s]] Everyday life in Madagascar is regulated by numerous ''fady'' (taboos) which vary from one region to another. They can forbid foods (lemur, turtle, beef), wearing clothes of a particular colour, bathing in a river or a lake, etc. Observance of "Fady" is mostly limited to rural areas, as tourists will most likely not encounter this problem if they stay in the main towns. However, there are Fadys in places such as Antananarivo but most vazaha are exempt. Fady are attributed to ancestors, to whom Malagasy adopt a respectful attitude whatever their religion. It is safest to respect these prohibitions and not violate them, even if you feel they don't make sense. Inform yourself about local fady when you arrive in a new place. When addressing anyone older than you or in a position of authority (e.g. police, military, customs officials), use the word "tompoko (toom-pook)" the same way you would use "Sir" or "Ma'am" in English. Respect for elders and authority figures is important in Madagascar. Do not ever take photos of a tomb without permission. Always ask permission before taking photos. Also, if you go to a remote village or hamlet it is fomba or tradition that you first meet with the head of the village if you have business in the village. Meeting this person can save you a lot of time if you have work to do there. ==Connect== International phone calls and 4G Internet via data can be done via cell phone companies such as '''Airtel''', '''Orange''' or '''Telma''' they work off prepaid phone cards. International phone calls using Telma to Europe cost 900 Ar per minute. There are also Internet cafes in the major cities and most large towns. Electricity may be erratic. Many areas have either mandatory shutdown hours or rationing. It's best to bring an openline smart phone and buy a SIM card when you get to Madagascar. It's also useful to have a powerbank. Most hotels now also have Wi-Fi. You can also easily buy a SIM card from anyone of the cell phone companies and get a data plan. The process is fairly easy compared to other countries and SIM cards can be bought directly in the airport with the whole activation and buying process being done in less than 10 minutes. SIM cards and credit are also among the few things you can easily get hold of throughout the country, including in provincial towns and small rural villages. As of December 2018, a 12GB data plan good for 30 days is 75 000 Ar. Do not expect a data connection everywhere on the island, but when you do have data connection, the fast 4G network is fairly impressive and allows free [[Internet telephony|VoIP calls]]. Telma sells their SIM cards for 500 Ar. Orange sells their SIM card for 2000 Ar. A stamp for a postcard to anywhere in Europe costs 1100 Ar. {{related|Islands of the Indian Ocean}} {{usablecountry}} {{isPartOf|East African Islands}} {{geo|-20|47|zoom=7}} kvtegchqmawnntjvnuplcqyr3tnz3w8 0 20967 5091274 5074030 2025-07-11T09:54:58Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091274 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Zomba Plateau banner.jpg|caption=Zomba Plateau}} '''Malawi''' (Chichewa: ''Malaŵi'') is a small, landlocked country in [[Africa]] whose eastern border mostly follows '''Lake Malawi''', the third largest lake on the continent. It's described as the "Warm Heart of Africa", referring to the friendliness of the people. ==Regions== {{Regionlist| regionmap=Malawi map.png | regionmapsize=400px | region1name=[[Northern Malawi]] | region1color=#b5d29f | region1items= | region1description= | region2name=[[Central Malawi]] | region2color=#c87b82 | region2items= | region2description= | region4name=[[Southern Malawi]] | region4color=#d5dc76 | region4items= | region4description= | }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b5d29f|title=[[Northern Malawi]]|wikidata=Q868827}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c87b82|title=[[Central Malawi]]|wikidata=Q860758}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5dc76|title=[[Southern Malawi]]|wikidata=Q868784}} ==Cities== <!-- Only 9 cities in this list; put surplus in the appropriate region article --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lilongwe]]|wikidata=Q3876}} - political capital of Malawi and the seat of government * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Blantyre]]|wikidata=Q188693}} - economic capital and largest city with an interesting downtown, decent nightlife and music, a range of hotels from the elegant to resthouses, and a vibrant street and market culture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mzuzu]]|wikidata=Q502216}} - the largest town in the North of Malawi. For most it's just a stop for cash and internet en route to or from Nkhata Bay or further south, and the Tanzanian border. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karonga]]|wikidata=Q1022512}} - charming town not far from the intriguing Misuku Hills and a short distance from Lake Malawi and growing quickly since the 2009 opening of a uranium mine * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mangochi]]|wikidata=Q1890257}} - medium-sized town, formerly known as Fort Johnston, and a jumping-off point for the resorts and hostels up the coast of Lake Malawi, on the way to peninsular Cape Maclear * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nkhotakota]]|wikidata=Q1022510}} on the shores of Lake Malawi in the Central Region, is where the explorer David Livingston sat down with the Swahili Arab slave traders to attempt to negotiate an end to the slave trade. Nkhotakota was a slave entrepôt, from which slaves were ferried across Lake Malawi to the eastern shore to resume their travel over land to what is now the Tanzanian coast. Nkhotakota is a compact and fascinating town, old in its way and true to the ethnic diversity of this region of Malawi. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Zomba]]|wikidata=Q219117}} - old colonial capital of Malawi noted for its British colonial architecture, the University of Malawi, and the remarkable Zomba Plateau which rises immediately west of the city ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Cape Maclear]]|wikidata=Q2937250}} - laid back fishing village on the tip of a peninsula jutting out into the southern portion of Lake Malawi. The Cape has excellent, sandy beaches and crystal-clear water perfect for swimming, and is a favourite among backpackers, boaters, and sunseekers. This area, however, is known for having a '''high level of ''schistosomiasis''''' and visitors should be well informed. *Kuti community Wildlife Park - 90&nbsp;km from Lilongwe on Salima Road where you will get closer to zebra than anywhere else in Africa. *{{marker|name=[[Likoma Island|Likoma]]|wikidata=Q9135742}} and [[Chizumulu Island]]s - great aquatic life and a back door to [[Mozambique]]. These islands are only reachable to tourists by private boat or the public ferry which only runs 1-2 times each week and is the sole means by which locals can ship supplies to and from the islands; Thus, if you take the ferry to or from Nkhata Bay, purchase a deck or cabin ticket unless you want to be fully immersed in the typical way of life of Malawian transporters. *{{marker|name=[[Mua]]|wikidata=Q6930657}}- Mua is a village in the Dedza District of Malawi, close to the Dezda Plateau. *{{marker|name=[[Zomba Plateau]]|wikidata=Q219117}}- also called the Zomba Massif, is a mountain of the Shire Highlands in southern Malawi. * {{marker|name=[[Monkey Bay]]|wikidata=Q1944901}} - a popular large village as you head up the Lake Road from Mangochi toward Cape Maclear * {{marker|name=[[Nkhata Bay]]|wikidata=Q1370650}} - a rocky bay towards the north of the lake - check into one of the lodges and you could be here for a while ===National parks and forest reserves=== [[File:Liwonde NP crocodiles.jpg|thumb|Crocodiles in Liwonde National Park]] *{{marker|name=[[Lake Malawi National Park]]|wikidata=Q1077596}} *{{marker|name=[[Liwonde National Park]]|wikidata=Q2739189}} &mdash; 550&nbsp;km² of unspoiled forest along the shores of the Shire River. The national park is best approached from the town of Liwonde. A half-hour boat ride up the Shire will show some of the remarkable wildlife of the region, especially hippo's, elephant, and fish eagles. *{{marker|name=[[Majete Wildlife Park]]|wikidata=Q11340179}} * {{marker|name=Mount Mulanje|wikidata=Q1510436}} (Mulanje Massif) &mdash; is the highest peak south of Kilimanjaro and a favourite among climbers attempting to reach Sapitwa Peak, the tallest of Mulanje's peaks. Its within the [[Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve]] *{{marker|name=[[Nyika National Park]]|wikidata=Q1567460}} - Malawi's biggest national park is on the 1800m high Nyika Plateau *{{marker|name=[[Ntchisi Forest Reserve]]|wikidata=Q14227673}} &mdash; stunning rainforest in rural, untouched area ''See also:'' [[African National Parks]] ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMalawi.png}} === History === At the end of the 15th century, the Maravi Empire existed on the southwestern shores of Lake Malawi as a kingdom by the Chewa people. The slave trade was introduced in the 19th century when the Swahili-Arabs moved into the area to obtain slaves and ivory. One of the first Europeans to visit Malawi was Dr. David Livingstone, a Scottish missionary and explorer who was credited with a leading role in ending slavery in Africa. Established in 1891, the British protectorate of Nyasaland became the independent nation of Malawi on 6 July 1964. After three decades of one-party rule by Hastings Banda, the country held multi-party elections in 1994 under a provisional constitution, which took full effect the following year. National multi-party elections in 1999 and 2004 elected president Bingu wa Mutharika. When he died in 2012, Joyce Banda (no relation to Hastings Banda) was elected as the first female leader. ===Climate=== Much of Malawi is plateau, often reaching to 1,000&nbsp;m (3,000 ft), and the temperature in these highlands is moderate, with the hottest period occurring during the autumn rainy season and the coolest and chilliest in winter. The hottest region in the country is the lower Shire River Valley well south of Blantyre. Temperatures along scenic Lake Malawi are generally warm, but with a cooling breeze, especially in the evenings. Winters (May till July) are dry. The rainy season begins in mid-October to early November and generally runs until March. === Culture === Malawi's people are its greatest asset - friendly, welcoming, colourful and vibrant. It is impossible to visit and not to become engaged with the people, but there are now opportunities to spend time in real villages (including staying overnight) for a first-hand experience of the cultures, traditions and daily life. This is an option pretty much everywhere in Malawi, and one well worth taking. There's also much to see of Malawi's history, beginning with the pre-history remains of the Karonga district and the Stone Age rock paintings near Dedza. The Cultural & Museum Centre at Karonga is well worth a visit. Elsewhere, the colonial period is preserved in buildings dating from the David Livingstone era and the defeat of the Arab slave trade is well documented in the museums of Blantyre. Among other museums around the country are a Lake Museum at Mangochi, a mission museum at Livingstonia and a postal services museum near Zomba. ==Get in== [[File:Malawi visa policy map.svg|thumb|375px|Countries in dark green can travel to Malawi visa free, those in yellow can obtain a visa on arrival and those in light green can apply for an e-visa]] ===Entry requirements=== Nationals of the following countries do '''not''' require a '''visa''' to enter Malawi for up to '''90 days''': [[Antigua and Barbuda]], [[Bahamas]], [[Barbados]], [[Belize]], [[Botswana]], [[Dominica]], [[Eswatini]], [[Fiji]], [[Gambia]], [[Grenada]], [[Israel]], [[Jamaica]], [[Kenya]], [[Kiribati]], [[Lesotho]], [[Malaysia]], [[Mauritius]], [[Mozambique]], [[Namibia]], [[Nauru]], [[Saint Kitts and Nevis]], [[Saint Lucia]], [[Saint Vincent and the Grenadines]], [[Samoa]], [[Seychelles]], [[South Africa]], [[Tanzania]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[Tuvalu]], [[Uganda]], [[Zambia]] and [[Zimbabwe]]. Nationals of [[Hong Kong]] do not require a visa for visits of up to '''30 days'''. In addition, since February 2024, the Malawi government [https://www.facebook.com/malawigovernment/posts/798130912353742 has lifted visas for travelers from 79 countries] to boost tourism, including [[Australia]], [[Canada]], [[Ireland]], [[New Zealand]], [[United Kingdom]], [[United States of America]]. Check the full list on the [https://malawilii.org/akn/mw/act/gn/2024/6/eng@2024-02-07 Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2024]. Citizens of most other countries may obtain a '''$50 visa on arrival''', but this is '''not''' applicable to citizens of [[Afghanistan]], [[Bangladesh]], [[Burkina Faso]], [[Burundi]], [[Cameroon]], [[Central African Republic]], [[Chad]], [[Egypt]], [[Ethiopia]], [[Iran]], [[Iraq]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Lebanon]], [[Libya]], [[Mali]], [[Nigeria]], [[Pakistan]], [[Palestine]], [[Rwanda]], [[Somalia]], [[South Sudan]], [[Sudan]], [[Syria]], [[Tunisia]], [[Turkey]], [[Ukraine]], [[Uzbekistan]] and [[Yemen]] who are required to obtain a visa in advance, which can be applied for at Malawi's embassy in your country. A six-month, multiple entry visa on arrival can also be obtained, which costs $150, and a twelve-month version of the same visa costs $250. An E-Visa system exists and some Europeans and Australians are required to use it. ===By plane=== Malawi has relatively few international flight connections, with most travelers connecting through either [[Johannesburg]], [[Nairobi]], or [[Addis Ababa]] to fly into [[Lilongwe]] or [[Blantyre]]. ===By train=== [[File:MALAWI ENTRY STAMP.JPG|thumb|Malawi entry stamp]] There are no international trains to Malawi. ===By boat=== A ferry runs twice a week from [[Likoma Island]] to Cobué and Metangula in Mozambique. ===By car=== The main road (M1) runs from the northern border (Kaporo) through Karonga, Mzuzu, Lilongwe and finally to Mchinji and is in excellent shape. There is an excellent road from [[Lilongwe]] to [[Mchinji]] on the Zambian border (120 km). ===By bus=== From Mozambique, in the south, you can take the bus from Tete (north-west [[Mozambique]]) to Zobwe. After crossing, take another bus from the border to [[Blantyre]]. This crossing is quite hectic, and it is closed at night, so you should plan to get there early, and try to keep it cool with all the border-hawkers. Direct buses run from [[Lusaka]], Zambia to [[Lilongwe]], but is best done in stretches) if 14-20 hours on a bus doesn't sound like your idea of a good time. There is also minibus from [[Mbeya]] in [[Tanzania]] to the border. From the border in Malawi Side, take a taxi to [[Karonga]]. From Karonga bus station, take a bus or minibus to other destinations in Malawi. Bus is cheaper than minibus. The easiest way take direct bus from Dar es Salaam in [[Tanzania]] to [[Mzuzu]] or [[Lilongwe]]. There are no direct buses from Mbeya to Malawi although scammers in Mbeya bus station will tell you so, and sell you tickets. You must take a bus to the border and walk across. There has been buses from Blantyre to Harare via Tete in Mozambique. but you will need to get a mozambique visa. ==Get around== [[File:2010-10-21 12-32-59 Malawi - Kabwanzi.JPG|thumb|M1 highway]] Compared to its neighbours, the main roads in Malawi are in surprisingly good shape and travel times between major destinations should be reasonable. The volume of traffic is low and most people drive reasonably slowly. Road travel after dark is not advisable as road markings are poor to non-existent and not all cars have headlights. While there are few vehicles travelling at night a very significant number of their drivers will be heavily intoxicated, particularly outside of Lilongwe and Blantyre. The Malawian police force have roadblocks, checkpoints and speeding checks along many of the major roadways and at the airports. By and large, they are looking for illegal activities and bribes. Expect to be stopped on occasion, particularly if you are clearly not local, and asked where you are going. Fines for traffic offences range from 2,000 MK for poor tyres or faulty lighting, to 8000 MK for speeding, to seizure of the vehicle for licensing/registration/insurance offences. Payment is expected to be made to a bursar at the roadside, and a numbered receipt from a duplicate book should be given. If a passenger in a vehicle being driven by a local the police may question the driver or other passengers in a local dialect in order to establish what can be got from you. You should not have any problems if you are polite and have the correct documentation (passport, driver's licence, permission to use the vehicle, etc.) available if they ask. Before using any vehicle be satisfied that all tyres are in good condition, lights are working (including brake lights) and that you have a road warning triangle and fire extinguisher. Do not leave quantities of food or beverages, toys, etc visible in the vehicle as they will be sought in exchange for passage. Allow extra time for journeys to the airport as the police are aware that people in a rush will pay. Speed checks are often carried out on the roads away from major towns (i.e. at the points where the speed limit is due to increase), and urban speed limits can extend well into rural areas, often for 10-12km outside of major towns. The wearing of seatbelts is mandatory. Local laws dictate that passengers may not have any limb hanging from a vehicle. Despite many local pick-ups having extra passengers in the cargo area visitors should not do so unless the vehicle has the appropriate additional government documentation allowing same. Malawi experiences fuel shortages, so stock up in neighbouring countries unless you want to queue for a long time (without actually getting anything) or use the black market - with fuel prices being almost double, even triple, usual prices. If staying in the one area for some time attempt to build a relationship with the forecourt staff in one establishment, but be seen to occasionally purchase small amounts from other outlets. Often staff will give preferential treatment to regular customers in times of shortage. In rural areas be vigilant of children playing and animals, particularly chickens on the road. While small animals may not damage the vehicle they may cause a family to lose a source of income or nutrition and create a very hostile situation when a demand for payment is made. === By bus === * [https://malawiplus.com/axa/ AXA Bus Malawi] ===By car=== Traffic is a major safety risk. Malawi's road network has improved, but many roads are still in poor condition. The country's car fleet is in poor condition and the traffic culture is uncontrolled. Travelling after dark is not recommended. "Thumbing a van on the back of a van is not a safe option. There is no train service. Fuel shortages can occur from time to time. Motorists should be prepared by buying an extra can of fuel. Like many other former British colonies, traffic moves on the left in Malawi with most cars being right-hand drive. Local car rental companies: {{listing | type=listing | name=Apex Rent-a-Car Malawi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sedans, 4x4s, buses. }} {{listing | type=listing | name=SS Rent-a-Car | alt= | url=http://www.ssrentacar.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Saloons/sedans, 4x4s, 16- and 26-seat buses, motorbikes. }} {{listing | type=listing | name=Sputnik Car Hire | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=4x4s, buses, trucks. }} Many car rentals in Southern Africa do not allow you to enter Malawi with their cars. You might have the best chances if you rent a car in [[Zambia]]. Car rentals that allow you to enter Malawi: * {{listing | name=Kwenda | url=http://www.kwenda.co.za/ | email=kwenda@iafrica.com | address=17 Samantha Street; Strijdom Park; Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+27 44 533 5717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Bushtackers | url= | email=bushtrackers@iafrica.com | address=P.O. Box 4225, Rivonia, 2128, Johannesburg, South Africa | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+27 11 465 5700 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Allow you to enter Malawi if you ask by email. }} ===By boat=== Travelling by boat is surely the most enjoyable mode of getting around in Malawi. The ''Ilala'' ferry runs north from Monkey Bay to Chilumba on Fridays at 10:00, arriving on Sunday at 18:30 and returns southbound on the same route, departing Chilumba on Mondays at 02:00, arriving back at Monkey Bay on Wednesdays at 14:00. Prices are rising with every year, but so is the ferry's reliability. === By train === Malawi has a ''very'' limited passenger service, with departures about 1-2 times per week between [[Blantyre]] and smaller cities in [[Southern Malawi]]. No passenger trains serve the capital [[Lilongwe]]. All trains are operated by CEAR. ==Talk== The official languages of Malawi are '''English''' and '''[[Nyanja phrasebook|Chichewa]]'''. English is widely spoken in urban areas and by the well-educated upper class, though outside of that, a few words in Chichewa will go a long way. Chichewa is the first language of the majority of the population, and knowing Chichewa will get you by in most of Malawi though in some very remote areas, learning the local tongue might be essential. Locals always appreciate any attempts by foreigners to speak Chichewa and learning at least a few basic greetings would do well to ingratiate yourself to the locals. [[Tumbuka phrasebook|Tumbuka]] is the first language for many people in the north of the country. Chiyao is spoken by the Yao people who live mostly in the Southern District of the country. A multi-cultural country, Malawi has over a dozen indigenous ethnic groups, each with its own distinct language. However, even in those areas, many younger people will be bilingual in the local language and Chichewa. ==See== [[File:Canoes on Lake Malawi.jpg|thumb|Canoes on Lake Malawi]] [[File:At the slopes of Zomba Platea.JPG|thumb|Zomba plateau]] Malawi has a massive diversity of beautiful landscapes. The highest peaks in Malawi touch 10,000 ft (3,000 m) while the lowest point is barely above sea level. This range of altitudes in a small area help to make the landscape of Malawi one of the most varied in all Africa. It is generally a green, lush country, with plateaux, highlands, forests, mountains, plains, escarpments and dramatic river valleys. The Rift Valley is the dominant feature, providing the vast chasm that Lake Malawi fills, and extending to the south of the country following the Shire River that drains the Lake. The flatter areas of the Rift Valley in South Malawi are home to some important wetlands, including Elephant Marsh, down in the Lower Shire Valley. To the west of the Lake and either side of the Shire Valley in the south is the Central African Plateau. The transition from Rift Valley floor up to the Central African Plateau is characterised by a series of dramatic escarpments, such as at Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, a protected area of rugged, unspoilt wilderness. The Central African Plateau itself is gently undulating land between 1,600ft (490m) and 5,000ft (1,500m), with the occasional lake (such as Lake Chilwa) and punctuated by more dramatic hills and forests. It is the widespread highlands and forests that provide the most impressive of the Malawi's varied scenery. Up where the air is fresh and cool are clear mountain streams, heaths, rolling montane grassland and evergreen forests. The southern part of Malawi has the best known highlands - Mulanje Massif and Zomba Plateau. The former is a massive wilderness plateau of syenite granite rising from the Phalombe Plains. It has a number of peaks, including the highest in both the country and the whole of central Africa: Sapitwa, at 3,000 m (10,000 ft). The tea estates that stretch west of Mulanje as far as Thyolo, are also wonderfully scenic. Zomba Plateau is not as high as Mulanje, but nonetheless impressive. It is slab-like with a gently undulating plateau top which is accessible by road. The Dedza-Kirk Highlands extend the rise from the Rift Valley on its western edge between Blantyre and Lilongwe. The northern part of these highlands is marked by the Dedza-Salima Forest Reserve and then the Thuma Forest Reserve. South-west of Lilongwe, the Dzalanyama Forest Reserve covers a range of hills at the border with Mozambique. The Dowa Highlands, north of Lilongwe, have their most notable peaks at Dowa and the Ntchisi Forest Reserve. The Viphya Highlands - undulating hills swathed in evergreen forests - stretch north-south in north Malawi and reach the edge of the Rift Valley. Finally, in north Malawi is the Nyika Plateau, a rolling whaleback grassland plateau unique in Africa. Much of this highest and most extensive high plateau surface in central Africa is gazetted as the Nyika National Park. ==Do== [[File:Baboons, Nyika National Park, Malawi (2490297666).jpg|thumb|Baboons in Nyika National Park]] For a small country, Malawi has a quite remarkable array of activities to offer visitors. The magnificent Lake Malawi is a haven for boat activities and watersports, as well as having some of the best freshwater diving sites in the world, right in Nkhata Bay. Eight land-based national parks and wildlife reserves offer all type of safaris in a wide variety of natural wilderness environments. Liwonde National Park, along the Shire River, has hippos (including an albino one!), crocodiles, lions, elephants and even leopards (apparently). The mixed terrain and varied landscapes also provide for excellent outdoor activities, including trekking and mountain biking, particularly in the highland areas. Those seeking cultural experiences are also well served by sites of historical interest and simple village visits to meet the ever-smiling Malawians in their daily life. You can visit the Carlsberg factory in Blantyre, climb Mount Mulanje (a series of high hills, mountains - making a good trek), drive up or climb Zomba Plateau, go horseback riding in Kande or Nyika, or just relax on the beaches of Cape Maclear. Specialist tours/activities include yoga holidays, tea factory tours and art safaris. Pottery classes are available at two centres in Dedza and Nkhotakota. In the summer months of Malawi (September/October) there is the Lake of Stars international music festival on the beaches of Sunbird Nkopola Lodge in Mangochi. This is a good festival, where you can relax in the sun on the beach having a few drinks and listening to some good music. Camping is the prominent form of accommodation, however many people do chose to stay in Sunbird Nkopola rooms themselves, or in rooms or cottages of nearby lodges. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malawi kwacha | currencyCode=MK | date=January 2025 | USD=1,700 | EUR=2,000 | GBP=2,200 | ZAR=93 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mwk-malawian-kwacha XE.com] }} The local currency is the '''Malawi kwacha''', sometimes abbreviated "'''MK'''" (ISO international currency code: '''MWK'''). The currency is freely convertible (but impossible to get rid of outside of the country). Coins of Malawi are issued in denominations of 1, 5 and 10 kwacha. Banknotes of Malawi are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 5,000 kwacha. "Hard" foreign currencies (forex) will also be accepted by almost everybody, particularly for larger purchases. In order to reduce cost of living, expats living in Malawi could consider specialized FX transfer by companies focusing on global reach such as the ones found at [http://moneytransfercomparison.com/expats/ MTC.com]. The central bank devalued the kwacha by 44% in Nov 2023. Many of the prices in our Malawi articles may be out of date. '''All foreign currency [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Malawi.html#:~:text=You%20must%20declare%20all%20foreign,up%20to%20%245%2C000%20per%20trip. must be declared upon arrival]''' There is a black market for foreign currency in Lilongwe operated by the people standing outside Metro store (opposite Spar/Shoprite). In Nov 2023, they were giving 1,950 kwacha to the US dollar. Get the taxi to stop on the drive from the airport. You can swap Malawian kwacha to Zambian kwacha at the border, either at the banks or on the black market too. Larger foreign notes are favoured and can get much higher rates. At times, it can be easier to not even go to the black market and simply make purchases with the foreign currency. '''Credit cards:''' Mastercard and Visa are accepted by larger hotels and large supermarkets. You can withdraw cash using a Mastercard or Visa card at many '''ATMs''' of the '''Standard Bank, Ecobank, National Bank of Malawi'''. Ecobank ATMs have no withdrawal fee for overseas cards. '''Travellers' cheques''' can no longer be used. ==Eat== [[Image:Nsima Relishes 2.jpg|thumb|''Nsima'' with three relishes: rape and peanut (top left), cabbage (bottom left) and ''kapenta'' (bottom right)]] Traditional Malawian food revolves around one staple, '''maize''', served in one form, '''''nsima''''' (n'SEE-ma). Nsima is basically a type of thick porridge, rolled into balls with your right hand and dipped into a variety of stews known as '''relishes'''. Those who can afford them eat relishes of beef, chicken or fish, but the many who can't make do with beans, tiny dried fish (''usipa''), pumpkin leaves (''chibwabwa'') and other vegetables. At breakfast, nsima can be served watered down into a soup, maybe with a little sugar. Local restaurants will serve nsima and relish for less than MK500. Food options in the major cities of [[Lilongwe]] and [[Blantyre]] are good. Fast food &mdash; to include burgers, pizza, and fried chicken &mdash; is very popular in Malawi. For sit-down meals, ethnic eateries (thanks to a significant ex-pat population) are popular. In many restaurants, '''pork''' products are not served to accommodate the Muslim population. Outside the larger cities, however, you might be a little underwhelmed with food options. Along the major roadways, you will find "tuck shops" featuring packaged cookies or Take Away Meals &mdash; meat pies or sausage rolls, for instance &mdash; which may or may not satisfy you. Finally, in terms of '''hygiene''' outside the major cities, you are unlikely to find a proper washroom with running water. You will probably be given a bowl of water, a piece of soap, and a (damp) towel. Therefore, some travellers bring small bottles of anti-bacterial hand soap with them. ==Drink== ===Soft drinks=== A traditional local drink worth trying is '''''maheu''''', a somewhat gritty and vaguely yogurty but refreshing beverage made from maize meal. Factory-produced maheu is sweet, comes in plastic bottles and is available in a variety of flavours including banana, chocolate and orange, while home made versions are usually unflavored and less sweet. The variety of soft drinks in Malawi is very popular - there's Coke, Sprite, Tonic, Ginger Ale, Soda Water, Cherry Plum, Cocopina and the very tasty, sugary Fantas (coming in Orange, Grape, Exotic, Passion and Pineapple flavours). These are manufactured by SOBO, the glass bottles are on a deposit system. Expect to pay MK50 extra per bottle unless you bring some 'empties' with you. ===Alcohol=== The only beers you will generally find are brewed in Blantyre by '''Carlsberg''', and its products are available in restaurants and stores throughout the country. A normal Carlsberg is known as a 'green', but the company also produces Special Brew, Stout, Classic, Elephant, Light and Kuche Kuche. You can also buy imported drinks such as Heineken, Kronenbourg, Smirnoff Ice, Bacardi Breezer and some ciders in certain bars. Malawi also produces its own spirits - notably Malawi Vodka, Malawi Gin, Malawi Rum, Gold Label Brandy and the cane spirit Powers. Malawi Gin & Tonic is a very nice, popular expat drink in the country. ==Sleep== Western-standard hotels can be found in [[Blantyre]], [[Lilongwe]], [[Zomba]] and [[Mzuzu]], as well as along the shores of Lake Malawi. The Lake Malawi resort hotels cater primarily to international tourists. There are '''Backpacker Hostels''' in many places in Malawi with dorm beds from US$10 per person. There are high-level five-star resort hotels in some rural areas charging western prices. ==Learn== [[File:Museum offices, Blantyre.jpg|thumb|Museum offices in [[Blantyre]]]] Malawi's largest tertiary education structure is the University of Malawi which is made up of Chancellor College in [[Zomba]], Blantyre Polytechnic in [[Chichiri]], and College of Medicine. Bunda College of Agriculture and Kamuzu College of Nursing in Lilongwe. There is also Mzuzu University in the northern part of Malawi. ==Stay safe== Malawi has been known for years as "The Warm Heart of Africa", and Malawians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Malawi is not known as a particularly dangerous travel destination for western tourists and expatriates. Muggings and robberies have occurred in the larger cities, most especially Lilongwe, as well as in some notorious places along the main tourist routes. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night. If you go out for the evening, make sure you know how you're going back home. Car-jackings happen occasionally so be sure to keep windows shut and doors locked during evening and night journeys (though night driving is not advised - most cars have broken headlights and Malawians tend to walk in the middle of the road at night) and exercise reasonable caution you would anywhere. Roads are less safe because many drivers are unlicensed and inexperienced and many vehicles are not inspection-ready; there is also the factor of drunk driving, especially in the evenings, so be cautious. However even half the taxi drivers you will get at night will be drunk. There are a lot of pickpockets operating in nightclubs and bars. Just exercise caution, don't bring too much money and cameras, etc.so don't bring hordes of cash with you. Homosexuality is prohibited by the law, and LGBT couples should exercise discretion when travelling to Malawi. It took a presidential pardon to release a gay couple who were arrested for homosexuality and sentenced to 14 years of hard labour. Swimming in water bodies can be dangerous for crocodiles and hippos. ==Stay healthy== As with its neighbouring countries '''[[malaria]]''' can be a problem. The lake is freshwater and is prone to [[bilharzia]], especially in the [[Cape Maclear]] area. Symptoms of bilharzia can take months to surface. If you think you've been exposed to it you can get a very cheap pill from the local pharmacists that will kill it before it even shows its face. It's a good idea to take care of this before leaving Malawi, as it will be much more expensive back home. The adult '''HIV''' prevalence in the country is at '''14%''' or '''1 in 7''' adults. '''Do not have unprotected sex. Do not use injecting drugs.''' '''[[Tap water]]''' in major cities like Lilongwe, Blantyre, Zomba and Mzuzu is generally safe. Ask at the lodge/house you're at. Travellers with weaker stomachs should avoid this drinking water. Bottled water is plentiful in all the major shops. Dogs, cats and other animals can spread rabies. ==Respect== [[File:Blantyre War Memorial.jpg|thumb|War memorial in Blantyre]] Malawi has both patriarchal and matriarchal ethnicities and cultures. In the cities, men tend to be more respected than women, but the reverse might be true in the rural villages depending on ethnicity. Whites tend to be well-respected, a holdover from colonial times, but this is largely a Malawian's way of being courteous. Accept their hospitality. They are an exceptionally friendly people. Malawians, especially those from very rural areas where they don't see many whites, can be quite curious when they do come upon a white traveller. To a Western mindset, this might be interpreted as unnecessarily staring at you or talking about you in front of you. Be prepared to be greeted by kids yelling ''mzungu, mzungu!'' and to answer lots of questions about yourself. Even relatively mundane items like mechanical pencils can draw a crowd of onlookers. Malawians are in general extremely courteous, and a part of that courtesy is shaking hands, speaking softly, and referring to travellers and others with respect. Malawians avoid rudeness. It is common for Malawi men to hold hands when they've gathered together to chat, and this shouldn't be given a sexual interpretation when it is encountered. Culturally, women should not wear shorts or mini-skirts, especially when travelling outside the lodge or camp. A woman in shorts or a short skirt is considered to be provocative, as well as rude. Many female visitors wear wraps that are available in the stores and markets of major cities. These are generally made of bright, colored patterns and can be extremely attractive. Low-cut tops on women, while discouraged, are not nearly as provocative. Men in the cities tend to wear slacks and not shorts, as shorts are generally worn only by school-age children, so when a man wears shorts it can be viewed by Malawians as rather silly. Finally, when meeting a Malawian &mdash; even to ask a question &mdash; you should always say hello and ask how they are. Properly greeting a Malawian is very important. They are uncomfortable with the Western notion of simply "getting to the point." Courtesy is a must, at all times, because not to be courteous is to show disrespect. ==Connect== ===GSM=== The two main mobile network providers are [https://www.airtel.mw/ Airtel] and [http://www.tnm.co.mw/ TNM]. For 3G TNM has better coverage with Airtel only really covering the largest cities. SIM cards are available for 200 MK. ===Other=== *[http://www.embassymalawi.be/ Embassy of the Republic of Malawi]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland and France ==Go next== * [[Tanzania]] * [[South Luangwa National Park]] &mdash; Kiboko Camp and some other travel agencies run roundtrip safaris from [[Lilongwe]] to this fantastic national park in [[Zambia]]. * [[Mozambique]] {{geo|-13|34|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|Southern Africa}} {{usablecountry}} brl4m3vvxs74zw8bneh6sy5i6tc7vv3 5091275 5091274 2025-07-11T09:55:10Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091275 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Zomba Plateau banner.jpg|caption=Zomba Plateau}} '''Malawi''' (Chichewa: ''Malaŵi'') is a small, landlocked country in [[Africa]] whose eastern border mostly follows '''Lake Malawi''', the third largest lake on the continent. It's described as the "Warm Heart of Africa", referring to the friendliness of the people. ==Regions== {{Regionlist| regionmap=Malawi map.png | regionmapsize=400px | region1name=[[Northern Malawi]] | region1color=#b5d29f | region1items= | region1description= | region2name=[[Central Malawi]] | region2color=#c87b82 | region2items= | region2description= | region4name=[[Southern Malawi]] | region4color=#d5dc76 | region4items= | region4description= | }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b5d29f|title=[[Northern Malawi]]|wikidata=Q868827}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c87b82|title=[[Central Malawi]]|wikidata=Q860758}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5dc76|title=[[Southern Malawi]]|wikidata=Q868784}} ==Cities== <!-- Only 9 cities in this list; put surplus in the appropriate region article --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lilongwe]]|wikidata=Q3876}} - political capital of Malawi and the seat of government * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Blantyre]]|wikidata=Q188693}} - economic capital and largest city with an interesting downtown, decent nightlife and music, a range of hotels from the elegant to resthouses, and a vibrant street and market culture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mzuzu]]|wikidata=Q502216}} - the largest town in the North of Malawi. For most it's just a stop for cash and internet en route to or from Nkhata Bay or further south, and the Tanzanian border. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karonga]]|wikidata=Q1022512}} - charming town not far from the intriguing Misuku Hills and a short distance from Lake Malawi and growing quickly since the 2009 opening of a uranium mine * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mangochi]]|wikidata=Q1890257}} - medium-sized town, formerly known as Fort Johnston, and a jumping-off point for the resorts and hostels up the coast of Lake Malawi, on the way to peninsular Cape Maclear * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nkhotakota]]|wikidata=Q1022510}} on the shores of Lake Malawi in the Central Region, is where the explorer David Livingston sat down with the Swahili Arab slave traders to attempt to negotiate an end to the slave trade. Nkhotakota was a slave entrepôt, from which slaves were ferried across Lake Malawi to the eastern shore to resume their travel over land to what is now the Tanzanian coast. Nkhotakota is a compact and fascinating town, old in its way and true to the ethnic diversity of this region of Malawi. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Zomba]]|wikidata=Q219117}} - old colonial capital of Malawi noted for its British colonial architecture, the University of Malawi, and the remarkable Zomba Plateau which rises immediately west of the city ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Cape Maclear]]|wikidata=Q2937250}} - laid back fishing village on the tip of a peninsula jutting out into the southern portion of Lake Malawi. The Cape has excellent, sandy beaches and crystal-clear water perfect for swimming, and is a favourite among backpackers, boaters, and sunseekers. This area, however, is known for having a '''high level of ''schistosomiasis''''' and visitors should be well informed. *Kuti community Wildlife Park - 90&nbsp;km from Lilongwe on Salima Road where you will get closer to zebra than anywhere else in Africa. *{{marker|name=[[Likoma Island|Likoma]]|wikidata=Q9135742}} and [[Chizumulu Island]]s - great aquatic life and a back door to [[Mozambique]]. These islands are only reachable to tourists by private boat or the public ferry which only runs 1-2 times each week and is the sole means by which locals can ship supplies to and from the islands; Thus, if you take the ferry to or from Nkhata Bay, purchase a deck or cabin ticket unless you want to be fully immersed in the typical way of life of Malawian transporters. *{{marker|name=[[Mua]]|wikidata=Q6930657}}- Mua is a village in the Dedza District of Malawi, close to the Dezda Plateau. *{{marker|name=[[Zomba Plateau]]|wikidata=Q219117}}- also called the Zomba Massif, is a mountain of the Shire Highlands in southern Malawi. * {{marker|name=[[Monkey Bay]]|wikidata=Q1944901}} - a popular large village as you head up the Lake Road from Mangochi toward Cape Maclear * {{marker|name=[[Nkhata Bay]]|wikidata=Q1370650}} - a rocky bay towards the north of the lake - check into one of the lodges and you could be here for a while ===National parks and forest reserves=== [[File:Liwonde NP crocodiles.jpg|thumb|Crocodiles in Liwonde National Park]] *{{marker|name=[[Lake Malawi National Park]]|wikidata=Q1077596}} *{{marker|name=[[Liwonde National Park]]|wikidata=Q2739189}} &mdash; 550&nbsp;km² of unspoiled forest along the shores of the Shire River. The national park is best approached from the town of Liwonde. A half-hour boat ride up the Shire will show some of the remarkable wildlife of the region, especially hippo's, elephant, and fish eagles. *{{marker|name=[[Majete Wildlife Park]]|wikidata=Q11340179}} * {{marker|name=Mount Mulanje|wikidata=Q1510436}} (Mulanje Massif) &mdash; is the highest peak south of Kilimanjaro and a favourite among climbers attempting to reach Sapitwa Peak, the tallest of Mulanje's peaks. Its within the [[Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve]] *{{marker|name=[[Nyika National Park]]|wikidata=Q1567460}} - Malawi's biggest national park is on the 1800m high Nyika Plateau *{{marker|name=[[Ntchisi Forest Reserve]]|wikidata=Q14227673}} &mdash; stunning rainforest in rural, untouched area ''See also:'' [[African National Parks]] ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMalawi.png}} === History === At the end of the 15th century, the Maravi Empire existed on the southwestern shores of Lake Malawi as a kingdom by the Chewa people. The slave trade was introduced in the 19th century when the Swahili-Arabs moved into the area to obtain slaves and ivory. One of the first Europeans to visit Malawi was Dr. David Livingstone, a Scottish missionary and explorer who was credited with a leading role in ending slavery in Africa. Established in 1891, the British protectorate of Nyasaland became the independent nation of Malawi on 6 July 1964. After three decades of one-party rule by Hastings Banda, the country held multi-party elections in 1994 under a provisional constitution, which took full effect the following year. National multi-party elections in 1999 and 2004 elected president Bingu wa Mutharika. When he died in 2012, Joyce Banda (no relation to Hastings Banda) was elected as the first female leader. ===Climate=== Much of Malawi is plateau, often reaching to 1,000&nbsp;m (3,000 ft), and the temperature in these highlands is moderate, with the hottest period occurring during the autumn rainy season and the coolest and chilliest in winter. The hottest region in the country is the lower Shire River Valley well south of Blantyre. Temperatures along scenic Lake Malawi are generally warm, but with a cooling breeze, especially in the evenings. Winters (May till July) are dry. The rainy season begins in mid-October to early November and generally runs until March. === Culture === Malawi's people are its greatest asset - friendly, welcoming, colourful and vibrant. It is impossible to visit and not to become engaged with the people, but there are now opportunities to spend time in real villages (including staying overnight) for a first-hand experience of the cultures, traditions and daily life. This is an option pretty much everywhere in Malawi, and one well worth taking. There's also much to see of Malawi's history, beginning with the pre-history remains of the Karonga district and the Stone Age rock paintings near Dedza. The Cultural & Museum Centre at Karonga is well worth a visit. Elsewhere, the colonial period is preserved in buildings dating from the David Livingstone era and the defeat of the Arab slave trade is well documented in the museums of Blantyre. Among other museums around the country are a Lake Museum at Mangochi, a mission museum at Livingstonia and a postal services museum near Zomba. ==Get in== [[File:Malawi visa policy map.svg|thumb|375px|Countries in dark green can travel to Malawi visa free, those in yellow can obtain a visa on arrival and those in light green can apply for an e-visa]] ===Entry requirements=== Nationals of the following countries do '''not''' require a '''visa''' to enter Malawi for up to '''90 days''': [[Antigua and Barbuda]], [[Bahamas]], [[Barbados]], [[Belize]], [[Botswana]], [[Dominica]], [[Eswatini]], [[Fiji]], [[Gambia]], [[Grenada]], [[Israel]], [[Jamaica]], [[Kenya]], [[Kiribati]], [[Lesotho]], [[Malaysia]], [[Mauritius]], [[Mozambique]], [[Namibia]], [[Nauru]], [[Saint Kitts and Nevis]], [[Saint Lucia]], [[Saint Vincent and the Grenadines]], [[Samoa]], [[Seychelles]], [[South Africa]], [[Tanzania]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[Tuvalu]], [[Uganda]], [[Zambia]] and [[Zimbabwe]]. Nationals of [[Hong Kong]] do not require a visa for visits of up to '''30 days'''. In addition, since February 2024, the Malawi government [https://www.facebook.com/malawigovernment/posts/798130912353742 has lifted visas for travelers from 79 countries] to boost tourism, including [[Australia]], [[Canada]], [[Ireland]], [[New Zealand]], [[United Kingdom]], [[United States of America]]. Check the full list on the [https://malawilii.org/akn/mw/act/gn/2024/6/eng@2024-02-07 Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2024]. Citizens of most other countries may obtain a '''$50 visa on arrival''', but this is '''not''' applicable to citizens of [[Afghanistan]], [[Bangladesh]], [[Burkina Faso]], [[Burundi]], [[Cameroon]], [[Central African Republic]], [[Chad]], [[Egypt]], [[Ethiopia]], [[Iran]], [[Iraq]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Lebanon]], [[Libya]], [[Mali]], [[Nigeria]], [[Pakistan]], [[Palestine]], [[Rwanda]], [[Somalia]], [[South Sudan]], [[Sudan]], [[Syria]], [[Tunisia]], [[Turkey]], [[Ukraine]], [[Uzbekistan]] and [[Yemen]] who are required to obtain a visa in advance, which can be applied for at Malawi's embassy in your country. A six-month, multiple entry visa on arrival can also be obtained, which costs $150, and a twelve-month version of the same visa costs $250. An E-Visa system exists and some Europeans and Australians are required to use it. ===By plane=== Malawi has relatively few international flight connections, with most travelers connecting through either [[Johannesburg]], [[Nairobi]], or [[Addis Ababa]] to fly into [[Lilongwe]] or [[Blantyre]]. ===By train=== [[File:MALAWI ENTRY STAMP.JPG|thumb|Malawi entry stamp]] There are no international trains to Malawi. ===By boat=== A ferry runs twice a week from [[Likoma Island]] to Cobué and Metangula in Mozambique. ===By car=== The main road (M1) runs from the northern border (Kaporo) through Karonga, Mzuzu, Lilongwe and finally to Mchinji and is in excellent shape. There is an excellent road from [[Lilongwe]] to [[Mchinji]] on the Zambian border (120 km). ===By bus=== From Mozambique, in the south, you can take the bus from Tete (north-west [[Mozambique]]) to Zobwe. After crossing, take another bus from the border to [[Blantyre]]. This crossing is quite hectic, and it is closed at night, so you should plan to get there early, and try to keep it cool with all the border-hawkers. Direct buses run from [[Lusaka]], Zambia to [[Lilongwe]], but is best done in stretches) if 14-20 hours on a bus doesn't sound like your idea of a good time. There is also minibus from [[Mbeya]] in [[Tanzania]] to the border. From the border in Malawi Side, take a taxi to [[Karonga]]. From Karonga bus station, take a bus or minibus to other destinations in Malawi. Bus is cheaper than minibus. The easiest way take direct bus from Dar es Salaam in [[Tanzania]] to [[Mzuzu]] or [[Lilongwe]]. There are no direct buses from Mbeya to Malawi although scammers in Mbeya bus station will tell you so, and sell you tickets. You must take a bus to the border and walk across. There has been buses from Blantyre to Harare via Tete in Mozambique. but you will need to get a mozambique visa. ==Get around== [[File:2010-10-21 12-32-59 Malawi - Kabwanzi.JPG|thumb|M1 highway]] Compared to its neighbours, the main roads in Malawi are in surprisingly good shape and travel times between major destinations should be reasonable. The volume of traffic is low and most people drive reasonably slowly. Road travel after dark is not advisable as road markings are poor to non-existent and not all cars have headlights. While there are few vehicles travelling at night a very significant number of their drivers will be heavily intoxicated, particularly outside of Lilongwe and Blantyre. The Malawian police force have roadblocks, checkpoints and speeding checks along many of the major roadways and at the airports. By and large, they are looking for illegal activities and bribes. Expect to be stopped on occasion, particularly if you are clearly not local, and asked where you are going. Fines for traffic offences range from 2,000 MK for poor tyres or faulty lighting, to 8000 MK for speeding, to seizure of the vehicle for licensing/registration/insurance offences. Payment is expected to be made to a bursar at the roadside, and a numbered receipt from a duplicate book should be given. If a passenger in a vehicle being driven by a local the police may question the driver or other passengers in a local dialect in order to establish what can be got from you. You should not have any problems if you are polite and have the correct documentation (passport, driver's licence, permission to use the vehicle, etc.) available if they ask. Before using any vehicle be satisfied that all tyres are in good condition, lights are working (including brake lights) and that you have a road warning triangle and fire extinguisher. Do not leave quantities of food or beverages, toys, etc visible in the vehicle as they will be sought in exchange for passage. Allow extra time for journeys to the airport as the police are aware that people in a rush will pay. Speed checks are often carried out on the roads away from major towns (i.e. at the points where the speed limit is due to increase), and urban speed limits can extend well into rural areas, often for 10-12km outside of major towns. The wearing of seatbelts is mandatory. Local laws dictate that passengers may not have any limb hanging from a vehicle. Despite many local pick-ups having extra passengers in the cargo area visitors should not do so unless the vehicle has the appropriate additional government documentation allowing same. Malawi experiences fuel shortages, so stock up in neighbouring countries unless you want to queue for a long time (without actually getting anything) or use the black market - with fuel prices being almost double, even triple, usual prices. If staying in the one area for some time attempt to build a relationship with the forecourt staff in one establishment, but be seen to occasionally purchase small amounts from other outlets. Often staff will give preferential treatment to regular customers in times of shortage. In rural areas be vigilant of children playing and animals, particularly chickens on the road. While small animals may not damage the vehicle they may cause a family to lose a source of income or nutrition and create a very hostile situation when a demand for payment is made. === By bus === * [https://malawiplus.com/axa/ AXA Bus Malawi] ===By car=== Traffic is a major safety risk. Malawi's road network has improved, but many roads are still in poor condition. The country's car fleet is in poor condition and the traffic culture is uncontrolled. Travelling after dark is not recommended. "Thumbing a van on the back of a van is not a safe option. There is no train service. Fuel shortages can occur from time to time. Motorists should be prepared by buying an extra can of fuel. Like many other former British colonies, traffic moves on the left in Malawi with most cars being right-hand drive. Local car rental companies: {{listing | type=listing | name=Apex Rent-a-Car Malawi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sedans, 4x4s, buses. }} {{listing | type=listing | name=SS Rent-a-Car | alt= | url=http://www.ssrentacar.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Saloons/sedans, 4x4s, 16- and 26-seat buses, motorbikes. }} {{listing | type=listing | name=Sputnik Car Hire | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=4x4s, buses, trucks. }} Many car rentals in Southern Africa do not allow you to enter Malawi with their cars. You might have the best chances if you rent a car in [[Zambia]]. Car rentals that allow you to enter Malawi: * {{listing | name=Kwenda | url=http://www.kwenda.co.za/ | email=kwenda@iafrica.com | address=17 Samantha Street; Strijdom Park; Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+27 44 533 5717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Bushtackers | url= | email=bushtrackers@iafrica.com | address=P.O. Box 4225, Rivonia, 2128, Johannesburg, South Africa | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+27 11 465 5700 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Allow you to enter Malawi if you ask by email. }} ===By boat=== Travelling by boat is surely the most enjoyable mode of getting around in Malawi. The ''Ilala'' ferry runs north from Monkey Bay to Chilumba on Fridays at 10:00, arriving on Sunday at 18:30 and returns southbound on the same route, departing Chilumba on Mondays at 02:00, arriving back at Monkey Bay on Wednesdays at 14:00. Prices are rising with every year, but so is the ferry's reliability. === By train === Malawi has a ''very'' limited passenger service, with departures about 1-2 times per week between [[Blantyre]] and smaller cities in [[Southern Malawi]]. No passenger trains serve the capital [[Lilongwe]]. All trains are operated by CEAR. ==Talk== The official languages of Malawi are '''English''' and '''[[Nyanja phrasebook|Chichewa]]'''. English is widely spoken in urban areas and by the well-educated upper class, though outside of that, a few words in Chichewa will go a long way. Chichewa is the first language of the majority of the population, and knowing Chichewa will get you by in most of Malawi though in some very remote areas, learning the local tongue might be essential. Locals always appreciate any attempts by foreigners to speak Chichewa and learning at least a few basic greetings would do well to ingratiate yourself to the locals. [[Tumbuka phrasebook|Tumbuka]] is the first language for many people in the north of the country. Chiyao is spoken by the Yao people who live mostly in the Southern District of the country. A multi-cultural country, Malawi has over a dozen indigenous ethnic groups, each with its own distinct language. However, even in those areas, many younger people will be bilingual in the local language and Chichewa. ==See== [[File:Canoes on Lake Malawi.jpg|thumb|Canoes on Lake Malawi]] [[File:At the slopes of Zomba Platea.JPG|thumb|Zomba plateau]] Malawi has a massive diversity of beautiful landscapes. The highest peaks in Malawi touch 10,000 ft (3,000 m) while the lowest point is barely above sea level. This range of altitudes in a small area help to make the landscape of Malawi one of the most varied in all Africa. It is generally a green, lush country, with plateaux, highlands, forests, mountains, plains, escarpments and dramatic river valleys. The Rift Valley is the dominant feature, providing the vast chasm that Lake Malawi fills, and extending to the south of the country following the Shire River that drains the Lake. The flatter areas of the Rift Valley in South Malawi are home to some important wetlands, including Elephant Marsh, down in the Lower Shire Valley. To the west of the Lake and either side of the Shire Valley in the south is the Central African Plateau. The transition from Rift Valley floor up to the Central African Plateau is characterised by a series of dramatic escarpments, such as at Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, a protected area of rugged, unspoilt wilderness. The Central African Plateau itself is gently undulating land between 1,600ft (490m) and 5,000ft (1,500m), with the occasional lake (such as Lake Chilwa) and punctuated by more dramatic hills and forests. It is the widespread highlands and forests that provide the most impressive of the Malawi's varied scenery. Up where the air is fresh and cool are clear mountain streams, heaths, rolling montane grassland and evergreen forests. The southern part of Malawi has the best known highlands - Mulanje Massif and Zomba Plateau. The former is a massive wilderness plateau of syenite granite rising from the Phalombe Plains. It has a number of peaks, including the highest in both the country and the whole of central Africa: Sapitwa, at 3,000 m (10,000 ft). The tea estates that stretch west of Mulanje as far as Thyolo, are also wonderfully scenic. Zomba Plateau is not as high as Mulanje, but nonetheless impressive. It is slab-like with a gently undulating plateau top which is accessible by road. The Dedza-Kirk Highlands extend the rise from the Rift Valley on its western edge between Blantyre and Lilongwe. The northern part of these highlands is marked by the Dedza-Salima Forest Reserve and then the Thuma Forest Reserve. South-west of Lilongwe, the Dzalanyama Forest Reserve covers a range of hills at the border with Mozambique. The Dowa Highlands, north of Lilongwe, have their most notable peaks at Dowa and the Ntchisi Forest Reserve. The Viphya Highlands - undulating hills swathed in evergreen forests - stretch north-south in north Malawi and reach the edge of the Rift Valley. Finally, in north Malawi is the Nyika Plateau, a rolling whaleback grassland plateau unique in Africa. Much of this highest and most extensive high plateau surface in central Africa is gazetted as the Nyika National Park. ==Do== [[File:Baboons, Nyika National Park, Malawi (2490297666).jpg|thumb|Baboons in Nyika National Park]] For a small country, Malawi has a quite remarkable array of activities to offer visitors. The magnificent Lake Malawi is a haven for boat activities and watersports, as well as having some of the best freshwater diving sites in the world, right in Nkhata Bay. Eight land-based national parks and wildlife reserves offer all type of safaris in a wide variety of natural wilderness environments. Liwonde National Park, along the Shire River, has hippos (including an albino one!), crocodiles, lions, elephants and even leopards (apparently). The mixed terrain and varied landscapes also provide for excellent outdoor activities, including trekking and mountain biking, particularly in the highland areas. Those seeking cultural experiences are also well served by sites of historical interest and simple village visits to meet the ever-smiling Malawians in their daily life. You can visit the Carlsberg factory in Blantyre, climb Mount Mulanje (a series of high hills, mountains - making a good trek), drive up or climb Zomba Plateau, go horseback riding in Kande or Nyika, or just relax on the beaches of Cape Maclear. Specialist tours/activities include yoga holidays, tea factory tours and art safaris. Pottery classes are available at two centres in Dedza and Nkhotakota. In the summer months of Malawi (September/October) there is the Lake of Stars international music festival on the beaches of Sunbird Nkopola Lodge in Mangochi. This is a good festival, where you can relax in the sun on the beach having a few drinks and listening to some good music. Camping is the prominent form of accommodation, however many people do chose to stay in Sunbird Nkopola rooms themselves, or in rooms or cottages of nearby lodges. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malawi kwacha | currencyCode=MK | date=January 2025 | USD=1,700 | EUR=2,000 | GBP=2,400 | ZAR=93 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mwk-malawian-kwacha XE.com] }} The local currency is the '''Malawi kwacha''', sometimes abbreviated "'''MK'''" (ISO international currency code: '''MWK'''). The currency is freely convertible (but impossible to get rid of outside of the country). Coins of Malawi are issued in denominations of 1, 5 and 10 kwacha. Banknotes of Malawi are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 5,000 kwacha. "Hard" foreign currencies (forex) will also be accepted by almost everybody, particularly for larger purchases. In order to reduce cost of living, expats living in Malawi could consider specialized FX transfer by companies focusing on global reach such as the ones found at [http://moneytransfercomparison.com/expats/ MTC.com]. The central bank devalued the kwacha by 44% in Nov 2023. Many of the prices in our Malawi articles may be out of date. '''All foreign currency [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Malawi.html#:~:text=You%20must%20declare%20all%20foreign,up%20to%20%245%2C000%20per%20trip. must be declared upon arrival]''' There is a black market for foreign currency in Lilongwe operated by the people standing outside Metro store (opposite Spar/Shoprite). In Nov 2023, they were giving 1,950 kwacha to the US dollar. Get the taxi to stop on the drive from the airport. You can swap Malawian kwacha to Zambian kwacha at the border, either at the banks or on the black market too. Larger foreign notes are favoured and can get much higher rates. At times, it can be easier to not even go to the black market and simply make purchases with the foreign currency. '''Credit cards:''' Mastercard and Visa are accepted by larger hotels and large supermarkets. You can withdraw cash using a Mastercard or Visa card at many '''ATMs''' of the '''Standard Bank, Ecobank, National Bank of Malawi'''. Ecobank ATMs have no withdrawal fee for overseas cards. '''Travellers' cheques''' can no longer be used. ==Eat== [[Image:Nsima Relishes 2.jpg|thumb|''Nsima'' with three relishes: rape and peanut (top left), cabbage (bottom left) and ''kapenta'' (bottom right)]] Traditional Malawian food revolves around one staple, '''maize''', served in one form, '''''nsima''''' (n'SEE-ma). Nsima is basically a type of thick porridge, rolled into balls with your right hand and dipped into a variety of stews known as '''relishes'''. Those who can afford them eat relishes of beef, chicken or fish, but the many who can't make do with beans, tiny dried fish (''usipa''), pumpkin leaves (''chibwabwa'') and other vegetables. At breakfast, nsima can be served watered down into a soup, maybe with a little sugar. Local restaurants will serve nsima and relish for less than MK500. Food options in the major cities of [[Lilongwe]] and [[Blantyre]] are good. Fast food &mdash; to include burgers, pizza, and fried chicken &mdash; is very popular in Malawi. For sit-down meals, ethnic eateries (thanks to a significant ex-pat population) are popular. In many restaurants, '''pork''' products are not served to accommodate the Muslim population. Outside the larger cities, however, you might be a little underwhelmed with food options. Along the major roadways, you will find "tuck shops" featuring packaged cookies or Take Away Meals &mdash; meat pies or sausage rolls, for instance &mdash; which may or may not satisfy you. Finally, in terms of '''hygiene''' outside the major cities, you are unlikely to find a proper washroom with running water. You will probably be given a bowl of water, a piece of soap, and a (damp) towel. Therefore, some travellers bring small bottles of anti-bacterial hand soap with them. ==Drink== ===Soft drinks=== A traditional local drink worth trying is '''''maheu''''', a somewhat gritty and vaguely yogurty but refreshing beverage made from maize meal. Factory-produced maheu is sweet, comes in plastic bottles and is available in a variety of flavours including banana, chocolate and orange, while home made versions are usually unflavored and less sweet. The variety of soft drinks in Malawi is very popular - there's Coke, Sprite, Tonic, Ginger Ale, Soda Water, Cherry Plum, Cocopina and the very tasty, sugary Fantas (coming in Orange, Grape, Exotic, Passion and Pineapple flavours). These are manufactured by SOBO, the glass bottles are on a deposit system. Expect to pay MK50 extra per bottle unless you bring some 'empties' with you. ===Alcohol=== The only beers you will generally find are brewed in Blantyre by '''Carlsberg''', and its products are available in restaurants and stores throughout the country. A normal Carlsberg is known as a 'green', but the company also produces Special Brew, Stout, Classic, Elephant, Light and Kuche Kuche. You can also buy imported drinks such as Heineken, Kronenbourg, Smirnoff Ice, Bacardi Breezer and some ciders in certain bars. Malawi also produces its own spirits - notably Malawi Vodka, Malawi Gin, Malawi Rum, Gold Label Brandy and the cane spirit Powers. Malawi Gin & Tonic is a very nice, popular expat drink in the country. ==Sleep== Western-standard hotels can be found in [[Blantyre]], [[Lilongwe]], [[Zomba]] and [[Mzuzu]], as well as along the shores of Lake Malawi. The Lake Malawi resort hotels cater primarily to international tourists. There are '''Backpacker Hostels''' in many places in Malawi with dorm beds from US$10 per person. There are high-level five-star resort hotels in some rural areas charging western prices. ==Learn== [[File:Museum offices, Blantyre.jpg|thumb|Museum offices in [[Blantyre]]]] Malawi's largest tertiary education structure is the University of Malawi which is made up of Chancellor College in [[Zomba]], Blantyre Polytechnic in [[Chichiri]], and College of Medicine. Bunda College of Agriculture and Kamuzu College of Nursing in Lilongwe. There is also Mzuzu University in the northern part of Malawi. ==Stay safe== Malawi has been known for years as "The Warm Heart of Africa", and Malawians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Malawi is not known as a particularly dangerous travel destination for western tourists and expatriates. Muggings and robberies have occurred in the larger cities, most especially Lilongwe, as well as in some notorious places along the main tourist routes. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night. If you go out for the evening, make sure you know how you're going back home. Car-jackings happen occasionally so be sure to keep windows shut and doors locked during evening and night journeys (though night driving is not advised - most cars have broken headlights and Malawians tend to walk in the middle of the road at night) and exercise reasonable caution you would anywhere. Roads are less safe because many drivers are unlicensed and inexperienced and many vehicles are not inspection-ready; there is also the factor of drunk driving, especially in the evenings, so be cautious. However even half the taxi drivers you will get at night will be drunk. There are a lot of pickpockets operating in nightclubs and bars. Just exercise caution, don't bring too much money and cameras, etc.so don't bring hordes of cash with you. Homosexuality is prohibited by the law, and LGBT couples should exercise discretion when travelling to Malawi. It took a presidential pardon to release a gay couple who were arrested for homosexuality and sentenced to 14 years of hard labour. Swimming in water bodies can be dangerous for crocodiles and hippos. ==Stay healthy== As with its neighbouring countries '''[[malaria]]''' can be a problem. The lake is freshwater and is prone to [[bilharzia]], especially in the [[Cape Maclear]] area. Symptoms of bilharzia can take months to surface. If you think you've been exposed to it you can get a very cheap pill from the local pharmacists that will kill it before it even shows its face. It's a good idea to take care of this before leaving Malawi, as it will be much more expensive back home. The adult '''HIV''' prevalence in the country is at '''14%''' or '''1 in 7''' adults. '''Do not have unprotected sex. Do not use injecting drugs.''' '''[[Tap water]]''' in major cities like Lilongwe, Blantyre, Zomba and Mzuzu is generally safe. Ask at the lodge/house you're at. Travellers with weaker stomachs should avoid this drinking water. Bottled water is plentiful in all the major shops. Dogs, cats and other animals can spread rabies. ==Respect== [[File:Blantyre War Memorial.jpg|thumb|War memorial in Blantyre]] Malawi has both patriarchal and matriarchal ethnicities and cultures. In the cities, men tend to be more respected than women, but the reverse might be true in the rural villages depending on ethnicity. Whites tend to be well-respected, a holdover from colonial times, but this is largely a Malawian's way of being courteous. Accept their hospitality. They are an exceptionally friendly people. Malawians, especially those from very rural areas where they don't see many whites, can be quite curious when they do come upon a white traveller. To a Western mindset, this might be interpreted as unnecessarily staring at you or talking about you in front of you. Be prepared to be greeted by kids yelling ''mzungu, mzungu!'' and to answer lots of questions about yourself. Even relatively mundane items like mechanical pencils can draw a crowd of onlookers. Malawians are in general extremely courteous, and a part of that courtesy is shaking hands, speaking softly, and referring to travellers and others with respect. Malawians avoid rudeness. It is common for Malawi men to hold hands when they've gathered together to chat, and this shouldn't be given a sexual interpretation when it is encountered. Culturally, women should not wear shorts or mini-skirts, especially when travelling outside the lodge or camp. A woman in shorts or a short skirt is considered to be provocative, as well as rude. Many female visitors wear wraps that are available in the stores and markets of major cities. These are generally made of bright, colored patterns and can be extremely attractive. Low-cut tops on women, while discouraged, are not nearly as provocative. Men in the cities tend to wear slacks and not shorts, as shorts are generally worn only by school-age children, so when a man wears shorts it can be viewed by Malawians as rather silly. Finally, when meeting a Malawian &mdash; even to ask a question &mdash; you should always say hello and ask how they are. Properly greeting a Malawian is very important. They are uncomfortable with the Western notion of simply "getting to the point." Courtesy is a must, at all times, because not to be courteous is to show disrespect. ==Connect== ===GSM=== The two main mobile network providers are [https://www.airtel.mw/ Airtel] and [http://www.tnm.co.mw/ TNM]. For 3G TNM has better coverage with Airtel only really covering the largest cities. SIM cards are available for 200 MK. ===Other=== *[http://www.embassymalawi.be/ Embassy of the Republic of Malawi]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland and France ==Go next== * [[Tanzania]] * [[South Luangwa National Park]] &mdash; Kiboko Camp and some other travel agencies run roundtrip safaris from [[Lilongwe]] to this fantastic national park in [[Zambia]]. * [[Mozambique]] {{geo|-13|34|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|Southern Africa}} {{usablecountry}} bv5aewq25po5myap4z6qrplzrz5xpug 5091276 5091275 2025-07-11T09:55:27Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091276 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Zomba Plateau banner.jpg|caption=Zomba Plateau}} '''Malawi''' (Chichewa: ''Malaŵi'') is a small, landlocked country in [[Africa]] whose eastern border mostly follows '''Lake Malawi''', the third largest lake on the continent. It's described as the "Warm Heart of Africa", referring to the friendliness of the people. ==Regions== {{Regionlist| regionmap=Malawi map.png | regionmapsize=400px | region1name=[[Northern Malawi]] | region1color=#b5d29f | region1items= | region1description= | region2name=[[Central Malawi]] | region2color=#c87b82 | region2items= | region2description= | region4name=[[Southern Malawi]] | region4color=#d5dc76 | region4items= | region4description= | }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b5d29f|title=[[Northern Malawi]]|wikidata=Q868827}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c87b82|title=[[Central Malawi]]|wikidata=Q860758}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5dc76|title=[[Southern Malawi]]|wikidata=Q868784}} ==Cities== <!-- Only 9 cities in this list; put surplus in the appropriate region article --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lilongwe]]|wikidata=Q3876}} - political capital of Malawi and the seat of government * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Blantyre]]|wikidata=Q188693}} - economic capital and largest city with an interesting downtown, decent nightlife and music, a range of hotels from the elegant to resthouses, and a vibrant street and market culture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mzuzu]]|wikidata=Q502216}} - the largest town in the North of Malawi. For most it's just a stop for cash and internet en route to or from Nkhata Bay or further south, and the Tanzanian border. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karonga]]|wikidata=Q1022512}} - charming town not far from the intriguing Misuku Hills and a short distance from Lake Malawi and growing quickly since the 2009 opening of a uranium mine * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mangochi]]|wikidata=Q1890257}} - medium-sized town, formerly known as Fort Johnston, and a jumping-off point for the resorts and hostels up the coast of Lake Malawi, on the way to peninsular Cape Maclear * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nkhotakota]]|wikidata=Q1022510}} on the shores of Lake Malawi in the Central Region, is where the explorer David Livingston sat down with the Swahili Arab slave traders to attempt to negotiate an end to the slave trade. Nkhotakota was a slave entrepôt, from which slaves were ferried across Lake Malawi to the eastern shore to resume their travel over land to what is now the Tanzanian coast. Nkhotakota is a compact and fascinating town, old in its way and true to the ethnic diversity of this region of Malawi. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Zomba]]|wikidata=Q219117}} - old colonial capital of Malawi noted for its British colonial architecture, the University of Malawi, and the remarkable Zomba Plateau which rises immediately west of the city ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Cape Maclear]]|wikidata=Q2937250}} - laid back fishing village on the tip of a peninsula jutting out into the southern portion of Lake Malawi. The Cape has excellent, sandy beaches and crystal-clear water perfect for swimming, and is a favourite among backpackers, boaters, and sunseekers. This area, however, is known for having a '''high level of ''schistosomiasis''''' and visitors should be well informed. *Kuti community Wildlife Park - 90&nbsp;km from Lilongwe on Salima Road where you will get closer to zebra than anywhere else in Africa. *{{marker|name=[[Likoma Island|Likoma]]|wikidata=Q9135742}} and [[Chizumulu Island]]s - great aquatic life and a back door to [[Mozambique]]. These islands are only reachable to tourists by private boat or the public ferry which only runs 1-2 times each week and is the sole means by which locals can ship supplies to and from the islands; Thus, if you take the ferry to or from Nkhata Bay, purchase a deck or cabin ticket unless you want to be fully immersed in the typical way of life of Malawian transporters. *{{marker|name=[[Mua]]|wikidata=Q6930657}}- Mua is a village in the Dedza District of Malawi, close to the Dezda Plateau. *{{marker|name=[[Zomba Plateau]]|wikidata=Q219117}}- also called the Zomba Massif, is a mountain of the Shire Highlands in southern Malawi. * {{marker|name=[[Monkey Bay]]|wikidata=Q1944901}} - a popular large village as you head up the Lake Road from Mangochi toward Cape Maclear * {{marker|name=[[Nkhata Bay]]|wikidata=Q1370650}} - a rocky bay towards the north of the lake - check into one of the lodges and you could be here for a while ===National parks and forest reserves=== [[File:Liwonde NP crocodiles.jpg|thumb|Crocodiles in Liwonde National Park]] *{{marker|name=[[Lake Malawi National Park]]|wikidata=Q1077596}} *{{marker|name=[[Liwonde National Park]]|wikidata=Q2739189}} &mdash; 550&nbsp;km² of unspoiled forest along the shores of the Shire River. The national park is best approached from the town of Liwonde. A half-hour boat ride up the Shire will show some of the remarkable wildlife of the region, especially hippo's, elephant, and fish eagles. *{{marker|name=[[Majete Wildlife Park]]|wikidata=Q11340179}} * {{marker|name=Mount Mulanje|wikidata=Q1510436}} (Mulanje Massif) &mdash; is the highest peak south of Kilimanjaro and a favourite among climbers attempting to reach Sapitwa Peak, the tallest of Mulanje's peaks. Its within the [[Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve]] *{{marker|name=[[Nyika National Park]]|wikidata=Q1567460}} - Malawi's biggest national park is on the 1800m high Nyika Plateau *{{marker|name=[[Ntchisi Forest Reserve]]|wikidata=Q14227673}} &mdash; stunning rainforest in rural, untouched area ''See also:'' [[African National Parks]] ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMalawi.png}} === History === At the end of the 15th century, the Maravi Empire existed on the southwestern shores of Lake Malawi as a kingdom by the Chewa people. The slave trade was introduced in the 19th century when the Swahili-Arabs moved into the area to obtain slaves and ivory. One of the first Europeans to visit Malawi was Dr. David Livingstone, a Scottish missionary and explorer who was credited with a leading role in ending slavery in Africa. Established in 1891, the British protectorate of Nyasaland became the independent nation of Malawi on 6 July 1964. After three decades of one-party rule by Hastings Banda, the country held multi-party elections in 1994 under a provisional constitution, which took full effect the following year. National multi-party elections in 1999 and 2004 elected president Bingu wa Mutharika. When he died in 2012, Joyce Banda (no relation to Hastings Banda) was elected as the first female leader. ===Climate=== Much of Malawi is plateau, often reaching to 1,000&nbsp;m (3,000 ft), and the temperature in these highlands is moderate, with the hottest period occurring during the autumn rainy season and the coolest and chilliest in winter. The hottest region in the country is the lower Shire River Valley well south of Blantyre. Temperatures along scenic Lake Malawi are generally warm, but with a cooling breeze, especially in the evenings. Winters (May till July) are dry. The rainy season begins in mid-October to early November and generally runs until March. === Culture === Malawi's people are its greatest asset - friendly, welcoming, colourful and vibrant. It is impossible to visit and not to become engaged with the people, but there are now opportunities to spend time in real villages (including staying overnight) for a first-hand experience of the cultures, traditions and daily life. This is an option pretty much everywhere in Malawi, and one well worth taking. There's also much to see of Malawi's history, beginning with the pre-history remains of the Karonga district and the Stone Age rock paintings near Dedza. The Cultural & Museum Centre at Karonga is well worth a visit. Elsewhere, the colonial period is preserved in buildings dating from the David Livingstone era and the defeat of the Arab slave trade is well documented in the museums of Blantyre. Among other museums around the country are a Lake Museum at Mangochi, a mission museum at Livingstonia and a postal services museum near Zomba. ==Get in== [[File:Malawi visa policy map.svg|thumb|375px|Countries in dark green can travel to Malawi visa free, those in yellow can obtain a visa on arrival and those in light green can apply for an e-visa]] ===Entry requirements=== Nationals of the following countries do '''not''' require a '''visa''' to enter Malawi for up to '''90 days''': [[Antigua and Barbuda]], [[Bahamas]], [[Barbados]], [[Belize]], [[Botswana]], [[Dominica]], [[Eswatini]], [[Fiji]], [[Gambia]], [[Grenada]], [[Israel]], [[Jamaica]], [[Kenya]], [[Kiribati]], [[Lesotho]], [[Malaysia]], [[Mauritius]], [[Mozambique]], [[Namibia]], [[Nauru]], [[Saint Kitts and Nevis]], [[Saint Lucia]], [[Saint Vincent and the Grenadines]], [[Samoa]], [[Seychelles]], [[South Africa]], [[Tanzania]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[Tuvalu]], [[Uganda]], [[Zambia]] and [[Zimbabwe]]. Nationals of [[Hong Kong]] do not require a visa for visits of up to '''30 days'''. In addition, since February 2024, the Malawi government [https://www.facebook.com/malawigovernment/posts/798130912353742 has lifted visas for travelers from 79 countries] to boost tourism, including [[Australia]], [[Canada]], [[Ireland]], [[New Zealand]], [[United Kingdom]], [[United States of America]]. Check the full list on the [https://malawilii.org/akn/mw/act/gn/2024/6/eng@2024-02-07 Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2024]. Citizens of most other countries may obtain a '''$50 visa on arrival''', but this is '''not''' applicable to citizens of [[Afghanistan]], [[Bangladesh]], [[Burkina Faso]], [[Burundi]], [[Cameroon]], [[Central African Republic]], [[Chad]], [[Egypt]], [[Ethiopia]], [[Iran]], [[Iraq]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Lebanon]], [[Libya]], [[Mali]], [[Nigeria]], [[Pakistan]], [[Palestine]], [[Rwanda]], [[Somalia]], [[South Sudan]], [[Sudan]], [[Syria]], [[Tunisia]], [[Turkey]], [[Ukraine]], [[Uzbekistan]] and [[Yemen]] who are required to obtain a visa in advance, which can be applied for at Malawi's embassy in your country. A six-month, multiple entry visa on arrival can also be obtained, which costs $150, and a twelve-month version of the same visa costs $250. An E-Visa system exists and some Europeans and Australians are required to use it. ===By plane=== Malawi has relatively few international flight connections, with most travelers connecting through either [[Johannesburg]], [[Nairobi]], or [[Addis Ababa]] to fly into [[Lilongwe]] or [[Blantyre]]. ===By train=== [[File:MALAWI ENTRY STAMP.JPG|thumb|Malawi entry stamp]] There are no international trains to Malawi. ===By boat=== A ferry runs twice a week from [[Likoma Island]] to Cobué and Metangula in Mozambique. ===By car=== The main road (M1) runs from the northern border (Kaporo) through Karonga, Mzuzu, Lilongwe and finally to Mchinji and is in excellent shape. There is an excellent road from [[Lilongwe]] to [[Mchinji]] on the Zambian border (120 km). ===By bus=== From Mozambique, in the south, you can take the bus from Tete (north-west [[Mozambique]]) to Zobwe. After crossing, take another bus from the border to [[Blantyre]]. This crossing is quite hectic, and it is closed at night, so you should plan to get there early, and try to keep it cool with all the border-hawkers. Direct buses run from [[Lusaka]], Zambia to [[Lilongwe]], but is best done in stretches) if 14-20 hours on a bus doesn't sound like your idea of a good time. There is also minibus from [[Mbeya]] in [[Tanzania]] to the border. From the border in Malawi Side, take a taxi to [[Karonga]]. From Karonga bus station, take a bus or minibus to other destinations in Malawi. Bus is cheaper than minibus. The easiest way take direct bus from Dar es Salaam in [[Tanzania]] to [[Mzuzu]] or [[Lilongwe]]. There are no direct buses from Mbeya to Malawi although scammers in Mbeya bus station will tell you so, and sell you tickets. You must take a bus to the border and walk across. There has been buses from Blantyre to Harare via Tete in Mozambique. but you will need to get a mozambique visa. ==Get around== [[File:2010-10-21 12-32-59 Malawi - Kabwanzi.JPG|thumb|M1 highway]] Compared to its neighbours, the main roads in Malawi are in surprisingly good shape and travel times between major destinations should be reasonable. The volume of traffic is low and most people drive reasonably slowly. Road travel after dark is not advisable as road markings are poor to non-existent and not all cars have headlights. While there are few vehicles travelling at night a very significant number of their drivers will be heavily intoxicated, particularly outside of Lilongwe and Blantyre. The Malawian police force have roadblocks, checkpoints and speeding checks along many of the major roadways and at the airports. By and large, they are looking for illegal activities and bribes. Expect to be stopped on occasion, particularly if you are clearly not local, and asked where you are going. Fines for traffic offences range from 2,000 MK for poor tyres or faulty lighting, to 8000 MK for speeding, to seizure of the vehicle for licensing/registration/insurance offences. Payment is expected to be made to a bursar at the roadside, and a numbered receipt from a duplicate book should be given. If a passenger in a vehicle being driven by a local the police may question the driver or other passengers in a local dialect in order to establish what can be got from you. You should not have any problems if you are polite and have the correct documentation (passport, driver's licence, permission to use the vehicle, etc.) available if they ask. Before using any vehicle be satisfied that all tyres are in good condition, lights are working (including brake lights) and that you have a road warning triangle and fire extinguisher. Do not leave quantities of food or beverages, toys, etc visible in the vehicle as they will be sought in exchange for passage. Allow extra time for journeys to the airport as the police are aware that people in a rush will pay. Speed checks are often carried out on the roads away from major towns (i.e. at the points where the speed limit is due to increase), and urban speed limits can extend well into rural areas, often for 10-12km outside of major towns. The wearing of seatbelts is mandatory. Local laws dictate that passengers may not have any limb hanging from a vehicle. Despite many local pick-ups having extra passengers in the cargo area visitors should not do so unless the vehicle has the appropriate additional government documentation allowing same. Malawi experiences fuel shortages, so stock up in neighbouring countries unless you want to queue for a long time (without actually getting anything) or use the black market - with fuel prices being almost double, even triple, usual prices. If staying in the one area for some time attempt to build a relationship with the forecourt staff in one establishment, but be seen to occasionally purchase small amounts from other outlets. Often staff will give preferential treatment to regular customers in times of shortage. In rural areas be vigilant of children playing and animals, particularly chickens on the road. While small animals may not damage the vehicle they may cause a family to lose a source of income or nutrition and create a very hostile situation when a demand for payment is made. === By bus === * [https://malawiplus.com/axa/ AXA Bus Malawi] ===By car=== Traffic is a major safety risk. Malawi's road network has improved, but many roads are still in poor condition. The country's car fleet is in poor condition and the traffic culture is uncontrolled. Travelling after dark is not recommended. "Thumbing a van on the back of a van is not a safe option. There is no train service. Fuel shortages can occur from time to time. Motorists should be prepared by buying an extra can of fuel. Like many other former British colonies, traffic moves on the left in Malawi with most cars being right-hand drive. Local car rental companies: {{listing | type=listing | name=Apex Rent-a-Car Malawi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sedans, 4x4s, buses. }} {{listing | type=listing | name=SS Rent-a-Car | alt= | url=http://www.ssrentacar.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Saloons/sedans, 4x4s, 16- and 26-seat buses, motorbikes. }} {{listing | type=listing | name=Sputnik Car Hire | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=4x4s, buses, trucks. }} Many car rentals in Southern Africa do not allow you to enter Malawi with their cars. You might have the best chances if you rent a car in [[Zambia]]. Car rentals that allow you to enter Malawi: * {{listing | name=Kwenda | url=http://www.kwenda.co.za/ | email=kwenda@iafrica.com | address=17 Samantha Street; Strijdom Park; Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+27 44 533 5717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Bushtackers | url= | email=bushtrackers@iafrica.com | address=P.O. Box 4225, Rivonia, 2128, Johannesburg, South Africa | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+27 11 465 5700 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Allow you to enter Malawi if you ask by email. }} ===By boat=== Travelling by boat is surely the most enjoyable mode of getting around in Malawi. The ''Ilala'' ferry runs north from Monkey Bay to Chilumba on Fridays at 10:00, arriving on Sunday at 18:30 and returns southbound on the same route, departing Chilumba on Mondays at 02:00, arriving back at Monkey Bay on Wednesdays at 14:00. Prices are rising with every year, but so is the ferry's reliability. === By train === Malawi has a ''very'' limited passenger service, with departures about 1-2 times per week between [[Blantyre]] and smaller cities in [[Southern Malawi]]. No passenger trains serve the capital [[Lilongwe]]. All trains are operated by CEAR. ==Talk== The official languages of Malawi are '''English''' and '''[[Nyanja phrasebook|Chichewa]]'''. English is widely spoken in urban areas and by the well-educated upper class, though outside of that, a few words in Chichewa will go a long way. Chichewa is the first language of the majority of the population, and knowing Chichewa will get you by in most of Malawi though in some very remote areas, learning the local tongue might be essential. Locals always appreciate any attempts by foreigners to speak Chichewa and learning at least a few basic greetings would do well to ingratiate yourself to the locals. [[Tumbuka phrasebook|Tumbuka]] is the first language for many people in the north of the country. Chiyao is spoken by the Yao people who live mostly in the Southern District of the country. A multi-cultural country, Malawi has over a dozen indigenous ethnic groups, each with its own distinct language. However, even in those areas, many younger people will be bilingual in the local language and Chichewa. ==See== [[File:Canoes on Lake Malawi.jpg|thumb|Canoes on Lake Malawi]] [[File:At the slopes of Zomba Platea.JPG|thumb|Zomba plateau]] Malawi has a massive diversity of beautiful landscapes. The highest peaks in Malawi touch 10,000 ft (3,000 m) while the lowest point is barely above sea level. This range of altitudes in a small area help to make the landscape of Malawi one of the most varied in all Africa. It is generally a green, lush country, with plateaux, highlands, forests, mountains, plains, escarpments and dramatic river valleys. The Rift Valley is the dominant feature, providing the vast chasm that Lake Malawi fills, and extending to the south of the country following the Shire River that drains the Lake. The flatter areas of the Rift Valley in South Malawi are home to some important wetlands, including Elephant Marsh, down in the Lower Shire Valley. To the west of the Lake and either side of the Shire Valley in the south is the Central African Plateau. The transition from Rift Valley floor up to the Central African Plateau is characterised by a series of dramatic escarpments, such as at Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, a protected area of rugged, unspoilt wilderness. The Central African Plateau itself is gently undulating land between 1,600ft (490m) and 5,000ft (1,500m), with the occasional lake (such as Lake Chilwa) and punctuated by more dramatic hills and forests. It is the widespread highlands and forests that provide the most impressive of the Malawi's varied scenery. Up where the air is fresh and cool are clear mountain streams, heaths, rolling montane grassland and evergreen forests. The southern part of Malawi has the best known highlands - Mulanje Massif and Zomba Plateau. The former is a massive wilderness plateau of syenite granite rising from the Phalombe Plains. It has a number of peaks, including the highest in both the country and the whole of central Africa: Sapitwa, at 3,000 m (10,000 ft). The tea estates that stretch west of Mulanje as far as Thyolo, are also wonderfully scenic. Zomba Plateau is not as high as Mulanje, but nonetheless impressive. It is slab-like with a gently undulating plateau top which is accessible by road. The Dedza-Kirk Highlands extend the rise from the Rift Valley on its western edge between Blantyre and Lilongwe. The northern part of these highlands is marked by the Dedza-Salima Forest Reserve and then the Thuma Forest Reserve. South-west of Lilongwe, the Dzalanyama Forest Reserve covers a range of hills at the border with Mozambique. The Dowa Highlands, north of Lilongwe, have their most notable peaks at Dowa and the Ntchisi Forest Reserve. The Viphya Highlands - undulating hills swathed in evergreen forests - stretch north-south in north Malawi and reach the edge of the Rift Valley. Finally, in north Malawi is the Nyika Plateau, a rolling whaleback grassland plateau unique in Africa. Much of this highest and most extensive high plateau surface in central Africa is gazetted as the Nyika National Park. ==Do== [[File:Baboons, Nyika National Park, Malawi (2490297666).jpg|thumb|Baboons in Nyika National Park]] For a small country, Malawi has a quite remarkable array of activities to offer visitors. The magnificent Lake Malawi is a haven for boat activities and watersports, as well as having some of the best freshwater diving sites in the world, right in Nkhata Bay. Eight land-based national parks and wildlife reserves offer all type of safaris in a wide variety of natural wilderness environments. Liwonde National Park, along the Shire River, has hippos (including an albino one!), crocodiles, lions, elephants and even leopards (apparently). The mixed terrain and varied landscapes also provide for excellent outdoor activities, including trekking and mountain biking, particularly in the highland areas. Those seeking cultural experiences are also well served by sites of historical interest and simple village visits to meet the ever-smiling Malawians in their daily life. You can visit the Carlsberg factory in Blantyre, climb Mount Mulanje (a series of high hills, mountains - making a good trek), drive up or climb Zomba Plateau, go horseback riding in Kande or Nyika, or just relax on the beaches of Cape Maclear. Specialist tours/activities include yoga holidays, tea factory tours and art safaris. Pottery classes are available at two centres in Dedza and Nkhotakota. In the summer months of Malawi (September/October) there is the Lake of Stars international music festival on the beaches of Sunbird Nkopola Lodge in Mangochi. This is a good festival, where you can relax in the sun on the beach having a few drinks and listening to some good music. Camping is the prominent form of accommodation, however many people do chose to stay in Sunbird Nkopola rooms themselves, or in rooms or cottages of nearby lodges. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malawi kwacha | currencyCode=MK | date=January 2025 | USD=1,700 | EUR=2,000 | GBP=2,400 | ZAR=97 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mwk-malawian-kwacha XE.com] }} The local currency is the '''Malawi kwacha''', sometimes abbreviated "'''MK'''" (ISO international currency code: '''MWK'''). The currency is freely convertible (but impossible to get rid of outside of the country). Coins of Malawi are issued in denominations of 1, 5 and 10 kwacha. Banknotes of Malawi are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 5,000 kwacha. "Hard" foreign currencies (forex) will also be accepted by almost everybody, particularly for larger purchases. In order to reduce cost of living, expats living in Malawi could consider specialized FX transfer by companies focusing on global reach such as the ones found at [http://moneytransfercomparison.com/expats/ MTC.com]. The central bank devalued the kwacha by 44% in Nov 2023. Many of the prices in our Malawi articles may be out of date. '''All foreign currency [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Malawi.html#:~:text=You%20must%20declare%20all%20foreign,up%20to%20%245%2C000%20per%20trip. must be declared upon arrival]''' There is a black market for foreign currency in Lilongwe operated by the people standing outside Metro store (opposite Spar/Shoprite). In Nov 2023, they were giving 1,950 kwacha to the US dollar. Get the taxi to stop on the drive from the airport. You can swap Malawian kwacha to Zambian kwacha at the border, either at the banks or on the black market too. Larger foreign notes are favoured and can get much higher rates. At times, it can be easier to not even go to the black market and simply make purchases with the foreign currency. '''Credit cards:''' Mastercard and Visa are accepted by larger hotels and large supermarkets. You can withdraw cash using a Mastercard or Visa card at many '''ATMs''' of the '''Standard Bank, Ecobank, National Bank of Malawi'''. Ecobank ATMs have no withdrawal fee for overseas cards. '''Travellers' cheques''' can no longer be used. ==Eat== [[Image:Nsima Relishes 2.jpg|thumb|''Nsima'' with three relishes: rape and peanut (top left), cabbage (bottom left) and ''kapenta'' (bottom right)]] Traditional Malawian food revolves around one staple, '''maize''', served in one form, '''''nsima''''' (n'SEE-ma). Nsima is basically a type of thick porridge, rolled into balls with your right hand and dipped into a variety of stews known as '''relishes'''. Those who can afford them eat relishes of beef, chicken or fish, but the many who can't make do with beans, tiny dried fish (''usipa''), pumpkin leaves (''chibwabwa'') and other vegetables. At breakfast, nsima can be served watered down into a soup, maybe with a little sugar. Local restaurants will serve nsima and relish for less than MK500. Food options in the major cities of [[Lilongwe]] and [[Blantyre]] are good. Fast food &mdash; to include burgers, pizza, and fried chicken &mdash; is very popular in Malawi. For sit-down meals, ethnic eateries (thanks to a significant ex-pat population) are popular. In many restaurants, '''pork''' products are not served to accommodate the Muslim population. Outside the larger cities, however, you might be a little underwhelmed with food options. Along the major roadways, you will find "tuck shops" featuring packaged cookies or Take Away Meals &mdash; meat pies or sausage rolls, for instance &mdash; which may or may not satisfy you. Finally, in terms of '''hygiene''' outside the major cities, you are unlikely to find a proper washroom with running water. You will probably be given a bowl of water, a piece of soap, and a (damp) towel. Therefore, some travellers bring small bottles of anti-bacterial hand soap with them. ==Drink== ===Soft drinks=== A traditional local drink worth trying is '''''maheu''''', a somewhat gritty and vaguely yogurty but refreshing beverage made from maize meal. Factory-produced maheu is sweet, comes in plastic bottles and is available in a variety of flavours including banana, chocolate and orange, while home made versions are usually unflavored and less sweet. The variety of soft drinks in Malawi is very popular - there's Coke, Sprite, Tonic, Ginger Ale, Soda Water, Cherry Plum, Cocopina and the very tasty, sugary Fantas (coming in Orange, Grape, Exotic, Passion and Pineapple flavours). These are manufactured by SOBO, the glass bottles are on a deposit system. Expect to pay MK50 extra per bottle unless you bring some 'empties' with you. ===Alcohol=== The only beers you will generally find are brewed in Blantyre by '''Carlsberg''', and its products are available in restaurants and stores throughout the country. A normal Carlsberg is known as a 'green', but the company also produces Special Brew, Stout, Classic, Elephant, Light and Kuche Kuche. You can also buy imported drinks such as Heineken, Kronenbourg, Smirnoff Ice, Bacardi Breezer and some ciders in certain bars. Malawi also produces its own spirits - notably Malawi Vodka, Malawi Gin, Malawi Rum, Gold Label Brandy and the cane spirit Powers. Malawi Gin & Tonic is a very nice, popular expat drink in the country. ==Sleep== Western-standard hotels can be found in [[Blantyre]], [[Lilongwe]], [[Zomba]] and [[Mzuzu]], as well as along the shores of Lake Malawi. The Lake Malawi resort hotels cater primarily to international tourists. There are '''Backpacker Hostels''' in many places in Malawi with dorm beds from US$10 per person. There are high-level five-star resort hotels in some rural areas charging western prices. ==Learn== [[File:Museum offices, Blantyre.jpg|thumb|Museum offices in [[Blantyre]]]] Malawi's largest tertiary education structure is the University of Malawi which is made up of Chancellor College in [[Zomba]], Blantyre Polytechnic in [[Chichiri]], and College of Medicine. Bunda College of Agriculture and Kamuzu College of Nursing in Lilongwe. There is also Mzuzu University in the northern part of Malawi. ==Stay safe== Malawi has been known for years as "The Warm Heart of Africa", and Malawians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Malawi is not known as a particularly dangerous travel destination for western tourists and expatriates. Muggings and robberies have occurred in the larger cities, most especially Lilongwe, as well as in some notorious places along the main tourist routes. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night. If you go out for the evening, make sure you know how you're going back home. Car-jackings happen occasionally so be sure to keep windows shut and doors locked during evening and night journeys (though night driving is not advised - most cars have broken headlights and Malawians tend to walk in the middle of the road at night) and exercise reasonable caution you would anywhere. Roads are less safe because many drivers are unlicensed and inexperienced and many vehicles are not inspection-ready; there is also the factor of drunk driving, especially in the evenings, so be cautious. However even half the taxi drivers you will get at night will be drunk. There are a lot of pickpockets operating in nightclubs and bars. Just exercise caution, don't bring too much money and cameras, etc.so don't bring hordes of cash with you. Homosexuality is prohibited by the law, and LGBT couples should exercise discretion when travelling to Malawi. It took a presidential pardon to release a gay couple who were arrested for homosexuality and sentenced to 14 years of hard labour. Swimming in water bodies can be dangerous for crocodiles and hippos. ==Stay healthy== As with its neighbouring countries '''[[malaria]]''' can be a problem. The lake is freshwater and is prone to [[bilharzia]], especially in the [[Cape Maclear]] area. Symptoms of bilharzia can take months to surface. If you think you've been exposed to it you can get a very cheap pill from the local pharmacists that will kill it before it even shows its face. It's a good idea to take care of this before leaving Malawi, as it will be much more expensive back home. The adult '''HIV''' prevalence in the country is at '''14%''' or '''1 in 7''' adults. '''Do not have unprotected sex. Do not use injecting drugs.''' '''[[Tap water]]''' in major cities like Lilongwe, Blantyre, Zomba and Mzuzu is generally safe. Ask at the lodge/house you're at. Travellers with weaker stomachs should avoid this drinking water. Bottled water is plentiful in all the major shops. Dogs, cats and other animals can spread rabies. ==Respect== [[File:Blantyre War Memorial.jpg|thumb|War memorial in Blantyre]] Malawi has both patriarchal and matriarchal ethnicities and cultures. In the cities, men tend to be more respected than women, but the reverse might be true in the rural villages depending on ethnicity. Whites tend to be well-respected, a holdover from colonial times, but this is largely a Malawian's way of being courteous. Accept their hospitality. They are an exceptionally friendly people. Malawians, especially those from very rural areas where they don't see many whites, can be quite curious when they do come upon a white traveller. To a Western mindset, this might be interpreted as unnecessarily staring at you or talking about you in front of you. Be prepared to be greeted by kids yelling ''mzungu, mzungu!'' and to answer lots of questions about yourself. Even relatively mundane items like mechanical pencils can draw a crowd of onlookers. Malawians are in general extremely courteous, and a part of that courtesy is shaking hands, speaking softly, and referring to travellers and others with respect. Malawians avoid rudeness. It is common for Malawi men to hold hands when they've gathered together to chat, and this shouldn't be given a sexual interpretation when it is encountered. Culturally, women should not wear shorts or mini-skirts, especially when travelling outside the lodge or camp. A woman in shorts or a short skirt is considered to be provocative, as well as rude. Many female visitors wear wraps that are available in the stores and markets of major cities. These are generally made of bright, colored patterns and can be extremely attractive. Low-cut tops on women, while discouraged, are not nearly as provocative. Men in the cities tend to wear slacks and not shorts, as shorts are generally worn only by school-age children, so when a man wears shorts it can be viewed by Malawians as rather silly. Finally, when meeting a Malawian &mdash; even to ask a question &mdash; you should always say hello and ask how they are. Properly greeting a Malawian is very important. They are uncomfortable with the Western notion of simply "getting to the point." Courtesy is a must, at all times, because not to be courteous is to show disrespect. ==Connect== ===GSM=== The two main mobile network providers are [https://www.airtel.mw/ Airtel] and [http://www.tnm.co.mw/ TNM]. For 3G TNM has better coverage with Airtel only really covering the largest cities. SIM cards are available for 200 MK. ===Other=== *[http://www.embassymalawi.be/ Embassy of the Republic of Malawi]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland and France ==Go next== * [[Tanzania]] * [[South Luangwa National Park]] &mdash; Kiboko Camp and some other travel agencies run roundtrip safaris from [[Lilongwe]] to this fantastic national park in [[Zambia]]. * [[Mozambique]] {{geo|-13|34|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|Southern Africa}} {{usablecountry}} 6he8sronxrjgejmb511bywo7pbiz75t 5091277 5091276 2025-07-11T09:55:38Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091277 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Zomba Plateau banner.jpg|caption=Zomba Plateau}} '''Malawi''' (Chichewa: ''Malaŵi'') is a small, landlocked country in [[Africa]] whose eastern border mostly follows '''Lake Malawi''', the third largest lake on the continent. It's described as the "Warm Heart of Africa", referring to the friendliness of the people. ==Regions== {{Regionlist| regionmap=Malawi map.png | regionmapsize=400px | region1name=[[Northern Malawi]] | region1color=#b5d29f | region1items= | region1description= | region2name=[[Central Malawi]] | region2color=#c87b82 | region2items= | region2description= | region4name=[[Southern Malawi]] | region4color=#d5dc76 | region4items= | region4description= | }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b5d29f|title=[[Northern Malawi]]|wikidata=Q868827}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c87b82|title=[[Central Malawi]]|wikidata=Q860758}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5dc76|title=[[Southern Malawi]]|wikidata=Q868784}} ==Cities== <!-- Only 9 cities in this list; put surplus in the appropriate region article --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lilongwe]]|wikidata=Q3876}} - political capital of Malawi and the seat of government * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Blantyre]]|wikidata=Q188693}} - economic capital and largest city with an interesting downtown, decent nightlife and music, a range of hotels from the elegant to resthouses, and a vibrant street and market culture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mzuzu]]|wikidata=Q502216}} - the largest town in the North of Malawi. For most it's just a stop for cash and internet en route to or from Nkhata Bay or further south, and the Tanzanian border. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Karonga]]|wikidata=Q1022512}} - charming town not far from the intriguing Misuku Hills and a short distance from Lake Malawi and growing quickly since the 2009 opening of a uranium mine * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mangochi]]|wikidata=Q1890257}} - medium-sized town, formerly known as Fort Johnston, and a jumping-off point for the resorts and hostels up the coast of Lake Malawi, on the way to peninsular Cape Maclear * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nkhotakota]]|wikidata=Q1022510}} on the shores of Lake Malawi in the Central Region, is where the explorer David Livingston sat down with the Swahili Arab slave traders to attempt to negotiate an end to the slave trade. Nkhotakota was a slave entrepôt, from which slaves were ferried across Lake Malawi to the eastern shore to resume their travel over land to what is now the Tanzanian coast. Nkhotakota is a compact and fascinating town, old in its way and true to the ethnic diversity of this region of Malawi. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Zomba]]|wikidata=Q219117}} - old colonial capital of Malawi noted for its British colonial architecture, the University of Malawi, and the remarkable Zomba Plateau which rises immediately west of the city ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Cape Maclear]]|wikidata=Q2937250}} - laid back fishing village on the tip of a peninsula jutting out into the southern portion of Lake Malawi. The Cape has excellent, sandy beaches and crystal-clear water perfect for swimming, and is a favourite among backpackers, boaters, and sunseekers. This area, however, is known for having a '''high level of ''schistosomiasis''''' and visitors should be well informed. *Kuti community Wildlife Park - 90&nbsp;km from Lilongwe on Salima Road where you will get closer to zebra than anywhere else in Africa. *{{marker|name=[[Likoma Island|Likoma]]|wikidata=Q9135742}} and [[Chizumulu Island]]s - great aquatic life and a back door to [[Mozambique]]. These islands are only reachable to tourists by private boat or the public ferry which only runs 1-2 times each week and is the sole means by which locals can ship supplies to and from the islands; Thus, if you take the ferry to or from Nkhata Bay, purchase a deck or cabin ticket unless you want to be fully immersed in the typical way of life of Malawian transporters. *{{marker|name=[[Mua]]|wikidata=Q6930657}}- Mua is a village in the Dedza District of Malawi, close to the Dezda Plateau. *{{marker|name=[[Zomba Plateau]]|wikidata=Q219117}}- also called the Zomba Massif, is a mountain of the Shire Highlands in southern Malawi. * {{marker|name=[[Monkey Bay]]|wikidata=Q1944901}} - a popular large village as you head up the Lake Road from Mangochi toward Cape Maclear * {{marker|name=[[Nkhata Bay]]|wikidata=Q1370650}} - a rocky bay towards the north of the lake - check into one of the lodges and you could be here for a while ===National parks and forest reserves=== [[File:Liwonde NP crocodiles.jpg|thumb|Crocodiles in Liwonde National Park]] *{{marker|name=[[Lake Malawi National Park]]|wikidata=Q1077596}} *{{marker|name=[[Liwonde National Park]]|wikidata=Q2739189}} &mdash; 550&nbsp;km² of unspoiled forest along the shores of the Shire River. The national park is best approached from the town of Liwonde. A half-hour boat ride up the Shire will show some of the remarkable wildlife of the region, especially hippo's, elephant, and fish eagles. *{{marker|name=[[Majete Wildlife Park]]|wikidata=Q11340179}} * {{marker|name=Mount Mulanje|wikidata=Q1510436}} (Mulanje Massif) &mdash; is the highest peak south of Kilimanjaro and a favourite among climbers attempting to reach Sapitwa Peak, the tallest of Mulanje's peaks. Its within the [[Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve]] *{{marker|name=[[Nyika National Park]]|wikidata=Q1567460}} - Malawi's biggest national park is on the 1800m high Nyika Plateau *{{marker|name=[[Ntchisi Forest Reserve]]|wikidata=Q14227673}} &mdash; stunning rainforest in rural, untouched area ''See also:'' [[African National Parks]] ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMalawi.png}} === History === At the end of the 15th century, the Maravi Empire existed on the southwestern shores of Lake Malawi as a kingdom by the Chewa people. The slave trade was introduced in the 19th century when the Swahili-Arabs moved into the area to obtain slaves and ivory. One of the first Europeans to visit Malawi was Dr. David Livingstone, a Scottish missionary and explorer who was credited with a leading role in ending slavery in Africa. Established in 1891, the British protectorate of Nyasaland became the independent nation of Malawi on 6 July 1964. After three decades of one-party rule by Hastings Banda, the country held multi-party elections in 1994 under a provisional constitution, which took full effect the following year. National multi-party elections in 1999 and 2004 elected president Bingu wa Mutharika. When he died in 2012, Joyce Banda (no relation to Hastings Banda) was elected as the first female leader. ===Climate=== Much of Malawi is plateau, often reaching to 1,000&nbsp;m (3,000 ft), and the temperature in these highlands is moderate, with the hottest period occurring during the autumn rainy season and the coolest and chilliest in winter. The hottest region in the country is the lower Shire River Valley well south of Blantyre. Temperatures along scenic Lake Malawi are generally warm, but with a cooling breeze, especially in the evenings. Winters (May till July) are dry. The rainy season begins in mid-October to early November and generally runs until March. === Culture === Malawi's people are its greatest asset - friendly, welcoming, colourful and vibrant. It is impossible to visit and not to become engaged with the people, but there are now opportunities to spend time in real villages (including staying overnight) for a first-hand experience of the cultures, traditions and daily life. This is an option pretty much everywhere in Malawi, and one well worth taking. There's also much to see of Malawi's history, beginning with the pre-history remains of the Karonga district and the Stone Age rock paintings near Dedza. The Cultural & Museum Centre at Karonga is well worth a visit. Elsewhere, the colonial period is preserved in buildings dating from the David Livingstone era and the defeat of the Arab slave trade is well documented in the museums of Blantyre. Among other museums around the country are a Lake Museum at Mangochi, a mission museum at Livingstonia and a postal services museum near Zomba. ==Get in== [[File:Malawi visa policy map.svg|thumb|375px|Countries in dark green can travel to Malawi visa free, those in yellow can obtain a visa on arrival and those in light green can apply for an e-visa]] ===Entry requirements=== Nationals of the following countries do '''not''' require a '''visa''' to enter Malawi for up to '''90 days''': [[Antigua and Barbuda]], [[Bahamas]], [[Barbados]], [[Belize]], [[Botswana]], [[Dominica]], [[Eswatini]], [[Fiji]], [[Gambia]], [[Grenada]], [[Israel]], [[Jamaica]], [[Kenya]], [[Kiribati]], [[Lesotho]], [[Malaysia]], [[Mauritius]], [[Mozambique]], [[Namibia]], [[Nauru]], [[Saint Kitts and Nevis]], [[Saint Lucia]], [[Saint Vincent and the Grenadines]], [[Samoa]], [[Seychelles]], [[South Africa]], [[Tanzania]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[Tuvalu]], [[Uganda]], [[Zambia]] and [[Zimbabwe]]. Nationals of [[Hong Kong]] do not require a visa for visits of up to '''30 days'''. In addition, since February 2024, the Malawi government [https://www.facebook.com/malawigovernment/posts/798130912353742 has lifted visas for travelers from 79 countries] to boost tourism, including [[Australia]], [[Canada]], [[Ireland]], [[New Zealand]], [[United Kingdom]], [[United States of America]]. Check the full list on the [https://malawilii.org/akn/mw/act/gn/2024/6/eng@2024-02-07 Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2024]. Citizens of most other countries may obtain a '''$50 visa on arrival''', but this is '''not''' applicable to citizens of [[Afghanistan]], [[Bangladesh]], [[Burkina Faso]], [[Burundi]], [[Cameroon]], [[Central African Republic]], [[Chad]], [[Egypt]], [[Ethiopia]], [[Iran]], [[Iraq]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Lebanon]], [[Libya]], [[Mali]], [[Nigeria]], [[Pakistan]], [[Palestine]], [[Rwanda]], [[Somalia]], [[South Sudan]], [[Sudan]], [[Syria]], [[Tunisia]], [[Turkey]], [[Ukraine]], [[Uzbekistan]] and [[Yemen]] who are required to obtain a visa in advance, which can be applied for at Malawi's embassy in your country. A six-month, multiple entry visa on arrival can also be obtained, which costs $150, and a twelve-month version of the same visa costs $250. An E-Visa system exists and some Europeans and Australians are required to use it. ===By plane=== Malawi has relatively few international flight connections, with most travelers connecting through either [[Johannesburg]], [[Nairobi]], or [[Addis Ababa]] to fly into [[Lilongwe]] or [[Blantyre]]. ===By train=== [[File:MALAWI ENTRY STAMP.JPG|thumb|Malawi entry stamp]] There are no international trains to Malawi. ===By boat=== A ferry runs twice a week from [[Likoma Island]] to Cobué and Metangula in Mozambique. ===By car=== The main road (M1) runs from the northern border (Kaporo) through Karonga, Mzuzu, Lilongwe and finally to Mchinji and is in excellent shape. There is an excellent road from [[Lilongwe]] to [[Mchinji]] on the Zambian border (120 km). ===By bus=== From Mozambique, in the south, you can take the bus from Tete (north-west [[Mozambique]]) to Zobwe. After crossing, take another bus from the border to [[Blantyre]]. This crossing is quite hectic, and it is closed at night, so you should plan to get there early, and try to keep it cool with all the border-hawkers. Direct buses run from [[Lusaka]], Zambia to [[Lilongwe]], but is best done in stretches) if 14-20 hours on a bus doesn't sound like your idea of a good time. There is also minibus from [[Mbeya]] in [[Tanzania]] to the border. From the border in Malawi Side, take a taxi to [[Karonga]]. From Karonga bus station, take a bus or minibus to other destinations in Malawi. Bus is cheaper than minibus. The easiest way take direct bus from Dar es Salaam in [[Tanzania]] to [[Mzuzu]] or [[Lilongwe]]. There are no direct buses from Mbeya to Malawi although scammers in Mbeya bus station will tell you so, and sell you tickets. You must take a bus to the border and walk across. There has been buses from Blantyre to Harare via Tete in Mozambique. but you will need to get a mozambique visa. ==Get around== [[File:2010-10-21 12-32-59 Malawi - Kabwanzi.JPG|thumb|M1 highway]] Compared to its neighbours, the main roads in Malawi are in surprisingly good shape and travel times between major destinations should be reasonable. The volume of traffic is low and most people drive reasonably slowly. Road travel after dark is not advisable as road markings are poor to non-existent and not all cars have headlights. While there are few vehicles travelling at night a very significant number of their drivers will be heavily intoxicated, particularly outside of Lilongwe and Blantyre. The Malawian police force have roadblocks, checkpoints and speeding checks along many of the major roadways and at the airports. By and large, they are looking for illegal activities and bribes. Expect to be stopped on occasion, particularly if you are clearly not local, and asked where you are going. Fines for traffic offences range from 2,000 MK for poor tyres or faulty lighting, to 8000 MK for speeding, to seizure of the vehicle for licensing/registration/insurance offences. Payment is expected to be made to a bursar at the roadside, and a numbered receipt from a duplicate book should be given. If a passenger in a vehicle being driven by a local the police may question the driver or other passengers in a local dialect in order to establish what can be got from you. You should not have any problems if you are polite and have the correct documentation (passport, driver's licence, permission to use the vehicle, etc.) available if they ask. Before using any vehicle be satisfied that all tyres are in good condition, lights are working (including brake lights) and that you have a road warning triangle and fire extinguisher. Do not leave quantities of food or beverages, toys, etc visible in the vehicle as they will be sought in exchange for passage. Allow extra time for journeys to the airport as the police are aware that people in a rush will pay. Speed checks are often carried out on the roads away from major towns (i.e. at the points where the speed limit is due to increase), and urban speed limits can extend well into rural areas, often for 10-12km outside of major towns. The wearing of seatbelts is mandatory. Local laws dictate that passengers may not have any limb hanging from a vehicle. Despite many local pick-ups having extra passengers in the cargo area visitors should not do so unless the vehicle has the appropriate additional government documentation allowing same. Malawi experiences fuel shortages, so stock up in neighbouring countries unless you want to queue for a long time (without actually getting anything) or use the black market - with fuel prices being almost double, even triple, usual prices. If staying in the one area for some time attempt to build a relationship with the forecourt staff in one establishment, but be seen to occasionally purchase small amounts from other outlets. Often staff will give preferential treatment to regular customers in times of shortage. In rural areas be vigilant of children playing and animals, particularly chickens on the road. While small animals may not damage the vehicle they may cause a family to lose a source of income or nutrition and create a very hostile situation when a demand for payment is made. === By bus === * [https://malawiplus.com/axa/ AXA Bus Malawi] ===By car=== Traffic is a major safety risk. Malawi's road network has improved, but many roads are still in poor condition. The country's car fleet is in poor condition and the traffic culture is uncontrolled. Travelling after dark is not recommended. "Thumbing a van on the back of a van is not a safe option. There is no train service. Fuel shortages can occur from time to time. Motorists should be prepared by buying an extra can of fuel. Like many other former British colonies, traffic moves on the left in Malawi with most cars being right-hand drive. Local car rental companies: {{listing | type=listing | name=Apex Rent-a-Car Malawi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sedans, 4x4s, buses. }} {{listing | type=listing | name=SS Rent-a-Car | alt= | url=http://www.ssrentacar.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Saloons/sedans, 4x4s, 16- and 26-seat buses, motorbikes. }} {{listing | type=listing | name=Sputnik Car Hire | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=4x4s, buses, trucks. }} Many car rentals in Southern Africa do not allow you to enter Malawi with their cars. You might have the best chances if you rent a car in [[Zambia]]. Car rentals that allow you to enter Malawi: * {{listing | name=Kwenda | url=http://www.kwenda.co.za/ | email=kwenda@iafrica.com | address=17 Samantha Street; Strijdom Park; Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+27 44 533 5717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Bushtackers | url= | email=bushtrackers@iafrica.com | address=P.O. Box 4225, Rivonia, 2128, Johannesburg, South Africa | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+27 11 465 5700 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Allow you to enter Malawi if you ask by email. }} ===By boat=== Travelling by boat is surely the most enjoyable mode of getting around in Malawi. The ''Ilala'' ferry runs north from Monkey Bay to Chilumba on Fridays at 10:00, arriving on Sunday at 18:30 and returns southbound on the same route, departing Chilumba on Mondays at 02:00, arriving back at Monkey Bay on Wednesdays at 14:00. Prices are rising with every year, but so is the ferry's reliability. === By train === Malawi has a ''very'' limited passenger service, with departures about 1-2 times per week between [[Blantyre]] and smaller cities in [[Southern Malawi]]. No passenger trains serve the capital [[Lilongwe]]. All trains are operated by CEAR. ==Talk== The official languages of Malawi are '''English''' and '''[[Nyanja phrasebook|Chichewa]]'''. English is widely spoken in urban areas and by the well-educated upper class, though outside of that, a few words in Chichewa will go a long way. Chichewa is the first language of the majority of the population, and knowing Chichewa will get you by in most of Malawi though in some very remote areas, learning the local tongue might be essential. Locals always appreciate any attempts by foreigners to speak Chichewa and learning at least a few basic greetings would do well to ingratiate yourself to the locals. [[Tumbuka phrasebook|Tumbuka]] is the first language for many people in the north of the country. Chiyao is spoken by the Yao people who live mostly in the Southern District of the country. A multi-cultural country, Malawi has over a dozen indigenous ethnic groups, each with its own distinct language. However, even in those areas, many younger people will be bilingual in the local language and Chichewa. ==See== [[File:Canoes on Lake Malawi.jpg|thumb|Canoes on Lake Malawi]] [[File:At the slopes of Zomba Platea.JPG|thumb|Zomba plateau]] Malawi has a massive diversity of beautiful landscapes. The highest peaks in Malawi touch 10,000 ft (3,000 m) while the lowest point is barely above sea level. This range of altitudes in a small area help to make the landscape of Malawi one of the most varied in all Africa. It is generally a green, lush country, with plateaux, highlands, forests, mountains, plains, escarpments and dramatic river valleys. The Rift Valley is the dominant feature, providing the vast chasm that Lake Malawi fills, and extending to the south of the country following the Shire River that drains the Lake. The flatter areas of the Rift Valley in South Malawi are home to some important wetlands, including Elephant Marsh, down in the Lower Shire Valley. To the west of the Lake and either side of the Shire Valley in the south is the Central African Plateau. The transition from Rift Valley floor up to the Central African Plateau is characterised by a series of dramatic escarpments, such as at Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, a protected area of rugged, unspoilt wilderness. The Central African Plateau itself is gently undulating land between 1,600ft (490m) and 5,000ft (1,500m), with the occasional lake (such as Lake Chilwa) and punctuated by more dramatic hills and forests. It is the widespread highlands and forests that provide the most impressive of the Malawi's varied scenery. Up where the air is fresh and cool are clear mountain streams, heaths, rolling montane grassland and evergreen forests. The southern part of Malawi has the best known highlands - Mulanje Massif and Zomba Plateau. The former is a massive wilderness plateau of syenite granite rising from the Phalombe Plains. It has a number of peaks, including the highest in both the country and the whole of central Africa: Sapitwa, at 3,000 m (10,000 ft). The tea estates that stretch west of Mulanje as far as Thyolo, are also wonderfully scenic. Zomba Plateau is not as high as Mulanje, but nonetheless impressive. It is slab-like with a gently undulating plateau top which is accessible by road. The Dedza-Kirk Highlands extend the rise from the Rift Valley on its western edge between Blantyre and Lilongwe. The northern part of these highlands is marked by the Dedza-Salima Forest Reserve and then the Thuma Forest Reserve. South-west of Lilongwe, the Dzalanyama Forest Reserve covers a range of hills at the border with Mozambique. The Dowa Highlands, north of Lilongwe, have their most notable peaks at Dowa and the Ntchisi Forest Reserve. The Viphya Highlands - undulating hills swathed in evergreen forests - stretch north-south in north Malawi and reach the edge of the Rift Valley. Finally, in north Malawi is the Nyika Plateau, a rolling whaleback grassland plateau unique in Africa. Much of this highest and most extensive high plateau surface in central Africa is gazetted as the Nyika National Park. ==Do== [[File:Baboons, Nyika National Park, Malawi (2490297666).jpg|thumb|Baboons in Nyika National Park]] For a small country, Malawi has a quite remarkable array of activities to offer visitors. The magnificent Lake Malawi is a haven for boat activities and watersports, as well as having some of the best freshwater diving sites in the world, right in Nkhata Bay. Eight land-based national parks and wildlife reserves offer all type of safaris in a wide variety of natural wilderness environments. Liwonde National Park, along the Shire River, has hippos (including an albino one!), crocodiles, lions, elephants and even leopards (apparently). The mixed terrain and varied landscapes also provide for excellent outdoor activities, including trekking and mountain biking, particularly in the highland areas. Those seeking cultural experiences are also well served by sites of historical interest and simple village visits to meet the ever-smiling Malawians in their daily life. You can visit the Carlsberg factory in Blantyre, climb Mount Mulanje (a series of high hills, mountains - making a good trek), drive up or climb Zomba Plateau, go horseback riding in Kande or Nyika, or just relax on the beaches of Cape Maclear. Specialist tours/activities include yoga holidays, tea factory tours and art safaris. Pottery classes are available at two centres in Dedza and Nkhotakota. In the summer months of Malawi (September/October) there is the Lake of Stars international music festival on the beaches of Sunbird Nkopola Lodge in Mangochi. This is a good festival, where you can relax in the sun on the beach having a few drinks and listening to some good music. Camping is the prominent form of accommodation, however many people do chose to stay in Sunbird Nkopola rooms themselves, or in rooms or cottages of nearby lodges. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malawi kwacha | currencyCode=MK | date=July 2025 | USD=1,700 | EUR=2,000 | GBP=2,400 | ZAR=97 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mwk-malawian-kwacha XE.com] }} The local currency is the '''Malawi kwacha''', sometimes abbreviated "'''MK'''" (ISO international currency code: '''MWK'''). The currency is freely convertible (but impossible to get rid of outside of the country). Coins of Malawi are issued in denominations of 1, 5 and 10 kwacha. Banknotes of Malawi are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 5,000 kwacha. "Hard" foreign currencies (forex) will also be accepted by almost everybody, particularly for larger purchases. In order to reduce cost of living, expats living in Malawi could consider specialized FX transfer by companies focusing on global reach such as the ones found at [http://moneytransfercomparison.com/expats/ MTC.com]. The central bank devalued the kwacha by 44% in Nov 2023. Many of the prices in our Malawi articles may be out of date. '''All foreign currency [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Malawi.html#:~:text=You%20must%20declare%20all%20foreign,up%20to%20%245%2C000%20per%20trip. must be declared upon arrival]''' There is a black market for foreign currency in Lilongwe operated by the people standing outside Metro store (opposite Spar/Shoprite). In Nov 2023, they were giving 1,950 kwacha to the US dollar. Get the taxi to stop on the drive from the airport. You can swap Malawian kwacha to Zambian kwacha at the border, either at the banks or on the black market too. Larger foreign notes are favoured and can get much higher rates. At times, it can be easier to not even go to the black market and simply make purchases with the foreign currency. '''Credit cards:''' Mastercard and Visa are accepted by larger hotels and large supermarkets. You can withdraw cash using a Mastercard or Visa card at many '''ATMs''' of the '''Standard Bank, Ecobank, National Bank of Malawi'''. Ecobank ATMs have no withdrawal fee for overseas cards. '''Travellers' cheques''' can no longer be used. ==Eat== [[Image:Nsima Relishes 2.jpg|thumb|''Nsima'' with three relishes: rape and peanut (top left), cabbage (bottom left) and ''kapenta'' (bottom right)]] Traditional Malawian food revolves around one staple, '''maize''', served in one form, '''''nsima''''' (n'SEE-ma). Nsima is basically a type of thick porridge, rolled into balls with your right hand and dipped into a variety of stews known as '''relishes'''. Those who can afford them eat relishes of beef, chicken or fish, but the many who can't make do with beans, tiny dried fish (''usipa''), pumpkin leaves (''chibwabwa'') and other vegetables. At breakfast, nsima can be served watered down into a soup, maybe with a little sugar. Local restaurants will serve nsima and relish for less than MK500. Food options in the major cities of [[Lilongwe]] and [[Blantyre]] are good. Fast food &mdash; to include burgers, pizza, and fried chicken &mdash; is very popular in Malawi. For sit-down meals, ethnic eateries (thanks to a significant ex-pat population) are popular. In many restaurants, '''pork''' products are not served to accommodate the Muslim population. Outside the larger cities, however, you might be a little underwhelmed with food options. Along the major roadways, you will find "tuck shops" featuring packaged cookies or Take Away Meals &mdash; meat pies or sausage rolls, for instance &mdash; which may or may not satisfy you. Finally, in terms of '''hygiene''' outside the major cities, you are unlikely to find a proper washroom with running water. You will probably be given a bowl of water, a piece of soap, and a (damp) towel. Therefore, some travellers bring small bottles of anti-bacterial hand soap with them. ==Drink== ===Soft drinks=== A traditional local drink worth trying is '''''maheu''''', a somewhat gritty and vaguely yogurty but refreshing beverage made from maize meal. Factory-produced maheu is sweet, comes in plastic bottles and is available in a variety of flavours including banana, chocolate and orange, while home made versions are usually unflavored and less sweet. The variety of soft drinks in Malawi is very popular - there's Coke, Sprite, Tonic, Ginger Ale, Soda Water, Cherry Plum, Cocopina and the very tasty, sugary Fantas (coming in Orange, Grape, Exotic, Passion and Pineapple flavours). These are manufactured by SOBO, the glass bottles are on a deposit system. Expect to pay MK50 extra per bottle unless you bring some 'empties' with you. ===Alcohol=== The only beers you will generally find are brewed in Blantyre by '''Carlsberg''', and its products are available in restaurants and stores throughout the country. A normal Carlsberg is known as a 'green', but the company also produces Special Brew, Stout, Classic, Elephant, Light and Kuche Kuche. You can also buy imported drinks such as Heineken, Kronenbourg, Smirnoff Ice, Bacardi Breezer and some ciders in certain bars. Malawi also produces its own spirits - notably Malawi Vodka, Malawi Gin, Malawi Rum, Gold Label Brandy and the cane spirit Powers. Malawi Gin & Tonic is a very nice, popular expat drink in the country. ==Sleep== Western-standard hotels can be found in [[Blantyre]], [[Lilongwe]], [[Zomba]] and [[Mzuzu]], as well as along the shores of Lake Malawi. The Lake Malawi resort hotels cater primarily to international tourists. There are '''Backpacker Hostels''' in many places in Malawi with dorm beds from US$10 per person. There are high-level five-star resort hotels in some rural areas charging western prices. ==Learn== [[File:Museum offices, Blantyre.jpg|thumb|Museum offices in [[Blantyre]]]] Malawi's largest tertiary education structure is the University of Malawi which is made up of Chancellor College in [[Zomba]], Blantyre Polytechnic in [[Chichiri]], and College of Medicine. Bunda College of Agriculture and Kamuzu College of Nursing in Lilongwe. There is also Mzuzu University in the northern part of Malawi. ==Stay safe== Malawi has been known for years as "The Warm Heart of Africa", and Malawians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Malawi is not known as a particularly dangerous travel destination for western tourists and expatriates. Muggings and robberies have occurred in the larger cities, most especially Lilongwe, as well as in some notorious places along the main tourist routes. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night. If you go out for the evening, make sure you know how you're going back home. Car-jackings happen occasionally so be sure to keep windows shut and doors locked during evening and night journeys (though night driving is not advised - most cars have broken headlights and Malawians tend to walk in the middle of the road at night) and exercise reasonable caution you would anywhere. Roads are less safe because many drivers are unlicensed and inexperienced and many vehicles are not inspection-ready; there is also the factor of drunk driving, especially in the evenings, so be cautious. However even half the taxi drivers you will get at night will be drunk. There are a lot of pickpockets operating in nightclubs and bars. Just exercise caution, don't bring too much money and cameras, etc.so don't bring hordes of cash with you. Homosexuality is prohibited by the law, and LGBT couples should exercise discretion when travelling to Malawi. It took a presidential pardon to release a gay couple who were arrested for homosexuality and sentenced to 14 years of hard labour. Swimming in water bodies can be dangerous for crocodiles and hippos. ==Stay healthy== As with its neighbouring countries '''[[malaria]]''' can be a problem. The lake is freshwater and is prone to [[bilharzia]], especially in the [[Cape Maclear]] area. Symptoms of bilharzia can take months to surface. If you think you've been exposed to it you can get a very cheap pill from the local pharmacists that will kill it before it even shows its face. It's a good idea to take care of this before leaving Malawi, as it will be much more expensive back home. The adult '''HIV''' prevalence in the country is at '''14%''' or '''1 in 7''' adults. '''Do not have unprotected sex. Do not use injecting drugs.''' '''[[Tap water]]''' in major cities like Lilongwe, Blantyre, Zomba and Mzuzu is generally safe. Ask at the lodge/house you're at. Travellers with weaker stomachs should avoid this drinking water. Bottled water is plentiful in all the major shops. Dogs, cats and other animals can spread rabies. ==Respect== [[File:Blantyre War Memorial.jpg|thumb|War memorial in Blantyre]] Malawi has both patriarchal and matriarchal ethnicities and cultures. In the cities, men tend to be more respected than women, but the reverse might be true in the rural villages depending on ethnicity. Whites tend to be well-respected, a holdover from colonial times, but this is largely a Malawian's way of being courteous. Accept their hospitality. They are an exceptionally friendly people. Malawians, especially those from very rural areas where they don't see many whites, can be quite curious when they do come upon a white traveller. To a Western mindset, this might be interpreted as unnecessarily staring at you or talking about you in front of you. Be prepared to be greeted by kids yelling ''mzungu, mzungu!'' and to answer lots of questions about yourself. Even relatively mundane items like mechanical pencils can draw a crowd of onlookers. Malawians are in general extremely courteous, and a part of that courtesy is shaking hands, speaking softly, and referring to travellers and others with respect. Malawians avoid rudeness. It is common for Malawi men to hold hands when they've gathered together to chat, and this shouldn't be given a sexual interpretation when it is encountered. Culturally, women should not wear shorts or mini-skirts, especially when travelling outside the lodge or camp. A woman in shorts or a short skirt is considered to be provocative, as well as rude. Many female visitors wear wraps that are available in the stores and markets of major cities. These are generally made of bright, colored patterns and can be extremely attractive. Low-cut tops on women, while discouraged, are not nearly as provocative. Men in the cities tend to wear slacks and not shorts, as shorts are generally worn only by school-age children, so when a man wears shorts it can be viewed by Malawians as rather silly. Finally, when meeting a Malawian &mdash; even to ask a question &mdash; you should always say hello and ask how they are. Properly greeting a Malawian is very important. They are uncomfortable with the Western notion of simply "getting to the point." Courtesy is a must, at all times, because not to be courteous is to show disrespect. ==Connect== ===GSM=== The two main mobile network providers are [https://www.airtel.mw/ Airtel] and [http://www.tnm.co.mw/ TNM]. For 3G TNM has better coverage with Airtel only really covering the largest cities. SIM cards are available for 200 MK. ===Other=== *[http://www.embassymalawi.be/ Embassy of the Republic of Malawi]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland and France ==Go next== * [[Tanzania]] * [[South Luangwa National Park]] &mdash; Kiboko Camp and some other travel agencies run roundtrip safaris from [[Lilongwe]] to this fantastic national park in [[Zambia]]. * [[Mozambique]] {{geo|-13|34|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|Southern Africa}} {{usablecountry}} lohyhc62507zmnyg9bgdoqx16hc2kht 0 20976 5091278 5082590 2025-07-11T09:56:32Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ in this long list JPY and CNY have to go 5091278 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner | Cameron_Highlands_Tea_Plantation_banner.jpg}} '''Malaysia''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]], on the Malay Peninsula, as well as on northern [[Borneo]]. The country is one of Asia's tiger economies, having seen great economic and human development during the last several decades. While the capital Kuala Lumpur is a cosmopolitan city, deep jungles cover vast swaths of the land, and the offshore islands are home to pristine beaches and some of the world's best scuba diving sites. Malaysia is also a foodie's paradise, with its diverse ethnic groups contributing to an incredibly rich culinary heritage. == Regions == Malaysia is divided into two main geographical regions, commonly known as Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. See [[Malaysia#Geography|Geography]] for more information. === Peninsular Malaysia === {{Mapframe|3.95|108.85|width=500|height=200|zoom=5|staticmap=Malaysia regions map.png|name=Map of Peninsular and East Malaysia}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q213467,Q188947,Q188096,Q188953,Q189710,Q1865,Q182378,Q213893,Q185221|fill=#69999f|title=[[West Coast (Malaysia)|West Coast]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q185944,Q189701,Q191346|fill=#71b37b|title=[[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q183032|fill=#d09440|title=[[Johor|South]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q179029,Q214504|fill=#867ea9|title=[[Sabah]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q170462|fill=#4f93c0|title=[[Sarawak]]}} {{Regionlist | region1name=[[West Coast (Malaysia)|West Coast]] | region1color=#69999f | region1items=[[Perlis]], [[Kedah]], [[Penang]], [[Perak]], [[Selangor]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Putrajaya]], [[Negeri Sembilan]], [[Malacca (state)|Malacca]] | region1description=The more developed region, offering the modern capital, [[Kuala Lumpur]], UNESCO World Heritage cities with colonial flair and the [[Langkawi]] archipelago. Perlis, Kedah and Perak are the gateways to [[Thailand]] overland. | region2name=[[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] | region2color=#71b37b | region2items=[[Kelantan]], [[Pahang]], [[Terengganu]] | region2description=The more traditional Muslim region, home to ''[[Taman Negara]]'' (National Park), numerous unspoilt islands and the [[Jungle Railway]], which winds through the rural hinterlands. Kelantan is the gateway to [[Thailand]] overland. | region3name=[[Johor]] | region3color=#d09440 | region3items= | region3description=Comprising just one state, two coastlines, endless palm oil plantations and the gateway to [[Singapore]] via a causeway or bridge. }} ===East Malaysia=== {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Sabah]] and [[Labuan]] | region1color=#867ea9 | region1items= | region1description=Superb scuba diving in [[Sipadan]] island plus muck diving at [[Mabul]], nature reserves, the federal enclave of [[Labuan]] and the mighty [[Mount Kinabalu]]. | region2name=[[Sarawak]] | region2color=#4f93c0 | region2items= | region2description=The southern state of East Malaysia (Borneo). Home to traditional longhouses, lush jungles and national parks in contrast to the state capital, [[Kuching]]. It is the gateway to [[Brunei]] and [[Indonesia]] overland. }} == Cities == [[File:PetronasKLCC.jpg|thumb|The iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur]] <!-- Only cities of primary importance to tourists here, maximum 9 --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuala Lumpur]]|wikidata=Q1865}} — the multi-cultural national capital, home of the Petronas Twin Towers * {{marker|type=city|name=[[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]]|wikidata=Q61092}} — the capital of [[Penang]] and hub of Malaysia's second largest metropolitan area, famed for its colonial-era architecture, multi-cultural populace, food and arts scene * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Malacca]]|wikidata=Q61089}} — the historical city of Malaysia with colonial-style architecture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ipoh]]|wikidata=Q271619}} — the capital of [[Perak]], with a historic colonial old town and tin mining area * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Johor Bahru]]|wikidata=Q231318}} — capital of [[Johor]] and Malaysia's third largest city, at the border with Singapore * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuantan]]|wikidata=Q817578}} — capital of [[Pahang]] and largest city on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kota Kinabalu]]|wikidata=Q137271}} — close to tropical islands, lush rain forest and Mount Kinabalu * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuching]]|wikidata=Q220445}} — capital of [[Sarawak]], and largest city in East Malaysia * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Miri]]|wikidata=Q986803}} — resort city of Sarawak near the border with Brunei and gateway to [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]], [[Gunung Mulu National Park]] <!-- Only cities of primary importance to tourists here, maximum 9 --> ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cameron Highlands]]|wikidata=Q1028741}} — famous for its tea plantations * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Perhentian Islands]]|wikidata=Q2070782}} (''Pulau Perhentian'') — glittering jewels off the East Coast still undiscovered by mass tourism * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Taman Negara]]|wikidata=Q728141}} — a large area of rainforest national park spanning [[Kelantan]], [[Pahang]] and [[Terengganu]] * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kinabalu National Park]]|wikidata=Q60967}} — home of Mount Kinabalu * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Langkawi]]|wikidata=Q273303}} — an archipelago of 99 islands known for its beaches, rainforest, mountains, mangrove estuaries and unique nature. It's also a duty-free island * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sipadan]]|wikidata=Q1412482}} (''Pulau Sipadan'') — one of the best dive spots in the world * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Redang]]|wikidata=Q1897123}} (''Pulau Redang'') — popular island destination for scuba divers * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Tioman]]|wikidata=Q771765}} (''Pulau Tioman'') — once nominated one of the most beautiful islands in the world * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Fraser's Hill]]|wikidata=Q3086678}} — a time warp to the colonial era == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMalaysia.png}} Malaysia is a mix of the modern world and a developing nation. With its investment in high technology industries and moderate oil wealth, it has become a rich nation in Southeast Asia. Malaysia, for most visitors, presents a happy mix: there is high-tech infrastructure and things generally work well and more or less on schedule, but prices remain more reasonable than, say, [[Singapore]]. The demographics between the rich and poor can also be quite apparent: for example, a high rise luxury condominium building built right across the street from old, rundown shop lots or flats. However, you will not find extreme rural poverty or gigantic urban slums as in most other countries of Southeast Asia. In terms of attractions, peninsular (West) Malaysia contains islands with gorgeous beaches and a fraction of visitors found in [[Thailand]]'s most popular beaches, mountain retreats surrounded by tea plantations, interesting historical cities, world-famous food, and the highly modern, multi-cultural capital of [[Kuala Lumpur]]. East Malaysia contains lush jungles with diverse native population and wildlife, as well as stunning natural attractions such as giant caves, beautiful mountains and fantastic diving sites. Notably, however, Malaysia is not as popular among backpackers as other Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand, [[Cambodia]] and [[Vietnam]], partly due to the relatively higher costs, and partly due to the more religious and conservative, albeit generally tolerant, culture. It also lacks the ancient Hindu and/or Buddhist temples and temple complexes of its neighbours, though it does have some large ones built since the 19th century. === History === [[File:Melaka-Dutch-Square-2164.jpg|thumb|The Dutch Square in Malacca]] Before the rise of the European colonial powers, the Malay Peninsula and the [[Malay Archipelago|Malay archipelago]] were home to empires such as the Srivijaya (whose capital was near modern [[Palembang]], [[Sumatra]], but which included the entire Malay Peninsula and lands further north at its greatest extent), the Majapahit (centred in [[Java]], now part of Indonesia, but believed by most scholars to have included the entire Malay Peninsula and most of coastal Borneo among its vassal states) and the [[Malacca]] Sultanate. The Srivijaya and Majapahit empires saw the spread of Hinduism to the region, and to this day, despite the fact that Malays are Muslims, many Hindu legends and traditions survive in traditional Malay culture. Mass conversion to Islam only occurred after the arrival of Arab traders during the Malacca Sultanate. [[File:Fort Cornwallis Eck.JPG|thumb|Fort Cornwallis in [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], [[Penang]] marked the site where the British colonisation of Malaya began in 1786.]] During the 16th century the Portuguese established the first European colony in Southeast Asia by defeating the Malacca Sultanate. The Portuguese were religiously intolerant and cruel, so the Sultan of Johor assisted the Dutch in defeating them, and the Netherlands took control of the city. The British also established their first colony on the Malay peninsula in [[Penang]] when it was ceded by the Sultan of Kedah in 1786. Finally, the area was divided into Dutch and British spheres of influence with the signing of the Anglo-Dutch Treaty in 1824. With this treaty, the Dutch agreed to cede Malacca to the British and in return, the British ceded all their colonies on Sumatra to the Dutch. The line of division roughly corresponds to what is today the border between Malaysia and [[Indonesia]]. Before World War II, the Malay Peninsula was governed by the British as the Federated Malay States (Selangor, Perak, Negeri Sembilan and Pahang), which were governed as a single protectorate, the Unfederated Malay States (Johor, Kedah, Perlis, Terengganu and Kelantan), which were each governed as separate protectorates. The Straits Settlements (Malacca, Penang and Singapore) were crown colonies directly administered by the British colonisers. These colonies and protectorates were collectively referred to as "[[Malaya]]". British Borneo consisted of the British colony of North Borneo, the Kingdom of Sarawak, which was ruled by a British family known as the "White Rajas", and the British protectorate of Brunei. [[Pacific War|World War II]] was disastrous for the British Malayan Command. The Japanese swept down both coasts of the Malay Peninsula and despite fierce fighting, much of the British military was tied down fighting the Germans in Europe and those that remained in Malaya simply could not cope with the Japanese onslaught. The British military equipment left to defend Malaya was outdated and no match for the modern technology used by the Japanese, and the only two British battleships based in the region, the HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse, were sunk by Japanese bombers off the East Coast of Malaya. By 31 January 1942, the British had been pushed all the way back to Singapore, which fell to the Japanese on 15 February 1942. The situation was no different on Borneo, which fell to the Japanese on 1 April 1942 after months of fierce fighting. The Japanese occupation was brutal, and many, particularly the ethnic Chinese, suffered and perished during the occupation. Among the most notorious atrocities committed by the Japanese were the Sandakan Death Marches, with only 6 out of 2,345 prisoners surviving the war. After World War II, the Federated Malay States, Unfederated Malay States and the Straits Settlements of Malacca and Penang were federated to form a single British colony known as the Malayan Union, with Singapore being split off to form a separate colony. In the Malayan Union, the sultans of the various states ceded all their powers except those in religious affairs to the British crown. However, widespread opposition to the Malayan Union led the British to reconsider their position, and in 1948, the Malayan Union was replaced by the Federation of Malaya, in which the executive positions of the sultans were restored. In Borneo, the White Rajas ceded Sarawak to the British crown in 1946, making it a crown colony of the United Kingdom. [[File:Dataran Merdeka (18359791323).jpg|thumb|Malaysian flag flying in ''Dataran Merdeka'', Kuala Lumpur]] On 31 August 1957, Malaya gained independence from the British. At midnight, the Union Jack was lowered, and the Malayan flag raised in its place at what is today ''Dataran Merdeka'' (Independence Square) in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. The crowd, led by the first Prime Minister of Malaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman, then proceeded to chant "''Merdeka''" seven times. On 16 September 1963, Malaysia was formed through the merging of Malaya with the British colonies of North Borneo (now known as Sabah), Sarawak and Singapore, with Brunei deciding not to join. The first several years of the country's history were marred by the Confrontation (''Konfrontasi'') — actually a series of acts of aggression by Indonesia that ultimately ended in her defeat and a formal peace that has held ever since — and claims to Sabah from the Philippines. On 9 August 1965 Singapore was officially expelled from the federation after several bloody racial riots as Singapore's majority Chinese population and the People's Action Party, led by Lee Kuan Yew (later the long-ruling Prime Minister of Singapore), were seen as a threat to Malay dominance. There were further racial riots in 1969, which led to the forced resignation of Tunku Abdul Rahman; his replacement by Tun Abdul Razak; changes in the Malaysian Constitution that sought to prevent the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition led by the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) from ever being defeated in a future national election; and the start of the New Economic Policy, which sought to aggressively promote the economic interests of the generally poorer Malay community (and also the non-Malay indigenous peoples of East Malaysia) over those of the generally less poor Chinese community (with the poorest major ethnic group, the Indians, and also to a very large extent the Orang Asli [aboriginal people] in the Peninsula mostly ignored in the process). In 1975, boat people from across the South China Sea in [[Vietnam]] started coming, and Malaysia became one of the most important places of first refuge for Indochinese refugees, but in general, only those of the Muslim Champa minority were invited to stay permanently. Later, during the period of tremendous economic development under the long premiership of Mahathir Mohammed, a large number of immigrant workers were invited from [[Bangladesh]], [[Indonesia]], [[India]], and several other countries in the area, and even more immigrated illegally. This further increased the diversity of the population, and quite a number of the workers were reported in local newspapers to have intermarried with local women, but it also led to social strife as many Malaysian men resented the competition, and while the economy depended on immigrant workers to do jobs most Malaysians were no longer willing to do, now that their standard of living was higher, most Malaysians also did not want to permanently absorb a large and potentially almost limitless number of poor people from the much more populous countries in the region. Some immigrants were expelled and even caned for immigration violations, but the issue has never been really resolved. Things came to a head in 2015 when allegations of corruption by then-prime minister Najib Razak surfaced in connection with 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), which was originally set up to promote economic development by attracting foreign investment. The allegations led to the ''Bersih'' (Malay for "clean") rally in which protesters unsuccessfully called for Najib to step down. However, widespread discontent arising from the 1MDB corruption scandal continued to simmer, eventually leading to a shock first-ever electoral defeat for the incumbent BN coalition in the 2018 general election. === Politics === Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy consisting of 13 states and 3 federal territories, nominally headed by the king (''Yang di-Pertuan Agong'', lit. Paramount Ruler), whose position rotates among the rulers of the 9 royal states of Malaysia every five years, giving Malaysia a unique political system of rotational monarchy. In practice, the king is only the nominal head of state, while the prime minister is the one who wields the most authority in government. Malaysia's government is largely based on the British Westminster system, consisting of a bicameral national parliament. The lower house, known as the ''Dewan Rakyat'' (Hall of the People) is elected directly by the people. The upper house, known as the ''Dewan Negara'' (National Hall), consists of 26 members elected by the state governments, with each state having 2 representatives, while the remaining members are appointed by the king. The head of government is the prime minister, who is the party leader of the winning party in the lower house. At the state level, each of the states also has its own unicameral ''Dewan Undangan Negeri'' (State Legislative Assembly), with the head of the state government being the ''Menteri Besar'' (First Minister, often translated as "Chief Minister" in English-language media) in the royal states, and the ''Ketua Menteri'' (Chief Minister) in the non-royal states. === Geography === Malaysia comprises two geographic regions, Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, which are separated by the South China Sea. '''Peninsular Malaysia''' (''Semenanjung Malaysia'') occupies all of the Malay Peninsula between [[Thailand]] and [[Singapore]], and is also known as West Malaysia (''Malaysia Barat'') or the slightly archaic [[Malaya]] (''Tanah Melayu''). It's home to the bulk of Malaysia's population, the capital and the largest city [[Kuala Lumpur]], and generally more economically developed. Peninsular Malaysia consists of plains on both the East and West Coasts, separated from each other by a mountain range known as the ''Banjaran Titiwangsa'', with the West Coast being more densely populated and generally more well-developed than the East Coast. Separated some 800&nbsp;km to the east of Peninsular Malaysia is '''East Malaysia''' (''Malaysia Timur''). East Malaysia occupies the northern third of the island of [[Borneo]], shared with [[Indonesia]] and tiny [[Brunei]]. Much of the development on East Malaysia is centred around the cities of [[Kuching]], [[Miri]] and [[Kota Kinabalu]]. Outside of the major cities and smaller towns are impenetrable jungle where head hunters once roamed and coastal plains rising to mountains. East Malaysia is rich in natural resources and is very much Malaysia's hinterland for industry and tourism, though those who make the trip will find it to be a world-class ecotourism destination. ===People=== Malaysia is a multicultural society. While Malays (a branch of the [[Austronesian]] group) make up a 52% majority, 27% of Malaysians are Chinese (who are especially visible in the cities), 9% are Indians, 12% are members of aboriginal peoples (often called ''Orang Asli'', Malay for "Original People"), and there is a miscellaneous grouping of 1.5% "others", including Thai communities in northern border states and the Portuguese clan in Malacca. The majority of the population (including virtually all Malays, as well as a significant minority of Indians) adheres to [[Islam]], the state religion, and there are substantial minorities who practice [[Christianity]], [[Buddhism]], Taoism, [[Hinduism]], [[Sikhism]] and animism, which are allowed under the constitution, subject to the supremacy of Islam — for example, it is illegal to proselytize other religions to Muslims. ===Culture=== Malaysia shares many cultural similarities with its neighbours, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore due to their common history. As the first great kingdoms to emerge in the region were Hindu kingdoms with much influence from India, Malay culture has substantial Indian influences. This is most visible in Malay cuisine with its relatively heavy use of curries, albeit using local instead of Indian spices, meaning that Malay curries often have a unique local flavour that is different from their Indian counterparts. In addition, the Malay language contains quite a few loan words from Sanskrit, and traditional Malay arts show noticeable influences from Hindu mythology, albeit Islamised. Malaysia's minorities also continue to maintain their own distinct cultures, with the Chinese and Indian communities continuing to preserve the traditions brought from their ancestral homelands. In particular, Malaysia's ethnic Chinese community is considered to have preserved Chinese culture and language the best among all the overseas Chinese communities of the world. Moreover, as Malaysia was unaffected by the Cultural Revolution, the ethnic Chinese community of Malaysia has preserved many elements of traditional Chinese culture that have been lost in mainland China. ===Holidays=== {{ramadandates}} One of the significant characteristics of Malaysian culture is its celebration of various festivals and events. The year is filled with colourful, exhilarating and exciting activities. Some are religious and solemn but others are vibrant, joyous events. One interesting feature of the main festivals here is the 'open house' custom. This is when Malaysians celebrating the festival invite friends and family to come by their homes for some traditional delicacies and fellowship. Multicultural Malaysia celebrates a vast range of festivals, but the ones to look out for nationwide are Islamic holidays, most notably the fasting month of '''Ramadan'''. During its 29 or 30 days, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sex from dawn to sunset. Not all Muslims follow the tradition, or sustain the full period of Ramadan fasting, but most do make a very serious effort. Pregnant, breast feeding or menstruating women are not expected to fast, nor are the elderly, the infirm, or travellers. People get up early before sunrise for a meal (''sahur''), and take off early to get back home in time to break fast (''buka puasa'') at sunset. At the end of the month is the festival of '''Eid ul-Fitr''', known locally as '''Hari Raya Puasa''' or '''Aidilfitri''', when many locals take one to two weeks off to 'balik kampung' or return to their home towns to meet family and friends. Accordingly, this is one of the many times in a year when major cities like Kuala Lumpur have virtually no traffic congestion. Another important festival is the Muslim festival of '''Eid ul-Adha''', known locally as '''Hari Raya Haji''' or '''Aidiladha'''. It is during this festival that Muslims perform the Hajj or pilgrimage to Mecca. In local mosques, cows and goats are donated by the faithful and sacrificed, after which the meat is distributed to all. Family reunions are also celebrated during other main festivals when locals usually put on traditional costumes and finery as these festivals are an integral feature of Malaysian society. During the month of Ramadan, non-Muslims are expected to be considerate of those fasting. Non-Muslims, as well as Muslims travelling (''musafir''), are exempt from fasting but it is polite to refrain from eating or drinking in public. Public school systems also require non-Muslims to refrain from eating in front of those who are fasting. Many restaurants close during the day and those that stay open maintain a low profile. Business travellers will notice that things move rather more slowly than usual. The upside for foreign travellers are the Ramadan bazaars in every city and town, bustling with activity and bursting at the seams with great food. That said, most Chinese stalls and restaurants remain open, and you will see people eating and drinking openly in Chinese-majority areas. Hotels and restaurants also pull out all stops to put on massive spreads of food for fast-breaking feasts. During the month of Ramadan, meals at the end of fasts are usually considered grand feasts. Worldwide fast-food chain McDonald's is known for holding several all-you-can-eat Ramadan feasts during the month. {{CNYdates}} Other major holidays include '''Chinese New Year''' (around January/February), '''Deepavali''' or '''Diwali''', the Hindu festival of lights (around October/November), the Buddhist holiday of '''Wesak''' (around May/June), and '''Christmas''' (25 December). During Chinese New Year, George Town and Ipoh become the major cities as many local Chinese working and living in KL originated from there. However this situation is changing gradually, as more and more people are making Kuala Lumpur their home town. While visiting during such festivals, travellers will be able to experience many wonderful celebrations, but the downside is many ethnic shops/eateries will be closed. The best option is to visit during the period just after the first two days of the major festival (Hari Raya/Chinese New Year), when shops will open, and the festive mood has still not died down. Another major celebration is '''Deepavali''', celebrated by the Malaysian Hindus as the festival of light originating from classical India and one of the main cultural celebrations. In Malaysia, locals practice this tradition by wearing new clothes and receiving token gifts of money. This practice has been adapted by all Malaysians regardless of their religion. They distribute red packets or ''ang pow'' during Chinese New Year, green packets or 'duit raya' for Hari Raya Aidilfitri and multi-coloured packets during Deepavali. Some uniquely Malaysian festivals of note include the '''Harvest Festival''' at the end of May each year and the ''''Pesta Gawai'''' in early June, both thanksgiving celebrations held in [[East Malaysia]]. '''Thaipusam''' is a Hindu festival that falls in January or February and is one of the must-see events. The largest procession in the country takes place at Batu Caves, Selangor. Male devotees carry decorated altars or ''kavadi'' up a flight of 272 steps towards the temple, all this while also having religious spears and hooks pierced through external surfaces of their bodies. The ability is attributed to divine intervention and religious fervour. Female devotees join the procession carrying pots of milk on their head instead. === Climate === The '''climate''' in Malaysia is equatorial. The north-east monsoon (October to February) deluges Borneo and the East Coast of the Peninsula in rain and often causes flooding, while the West Coast (particularly Langkawi and Penang) escapes unscathed. The milder south-west monsoon (April to October) reverses the pattern. The southern and central parts of Peninsular Malaysia, including perennially soggy Kuala Lumpur, are exposed to both but even during the rainy season, the showers tend to be intense but brief. Malaysia is close to the equator, so warm weather is guaranteed. Temperatures generally range from 32°C (90°F) at noon to about 26°C (79°F) at midnight. But like most Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia's sun-shining days are interrupted by monsoon season every year, and night temperatures can hit a low of about 23°C (73°F) on rainy days. Temperatures tend to be cooler in the highlands, with the likes of [[Genting Highlands]], [[Cameron Highlands]] and [[Fraser's Hill]] having temperatures ranging from about 17°C (63°F) at night to about 25°C (77°F) in the day. Mount Kinabalu is known to have temperatures falling below 10°C (50°F). ===Tourist information === * [https://www.tourism.gov.my/ Malaysia Tourism Corporation] == Talk == {{seealso|Malay phrasebook}} The national-level official language of Malaysia is '''[[Malay phrasebook|Malay]]''' (officially ''Bahasa Malaysia'', sometimes also known as ''Bahasa Melayu'') and '''English''' is also the co-official language of the state of [[Sarawak]]. The [[Indonesian phrasebook|Indonesian]] language, spoken across the border in Indonesia, is similar to Malay, and speakers of both languages can generally understand each other. The main differences are in the loanwords: Malay borrowed more from English, while Indonesian borrowed more from Dutch. Some parts of Malaysia near the Thai border, most notably [[Kelantan]], have dialects of Malay which are nearly incomprehensible to speakers of standard Malay, though most people in these areas will be able to converse in standard Malay if needed. '''English''' is compulsory in all schools and widely spoken in the larger cities, among the well-educated upper class, as well as around the main tourist attractions, although in rural areas a little Malay will come in handy. There is also a local dialect of English spoken among Malaysians in urban areas, not inappropriately known as '''Manglish''', which has its own simplified grammar and a vocabulary that is mostly English but includes borrowings from Malay and several other locally-spoken languages; it takes a bit of getting used to if you intend to join in the conversation on local topics. Almost all Malaysians will not pronounce the letter "h", so "three" becomes "tree". Malaysians will almost always try to speak 'standardized English' (British) when approached by Western travellers. In general, police stations and government offices have English-speaking staff on duty. [[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]] is taught to those who attend Islamic religious schools, and many clerics as well as other very observant Muslims have a functional command of Arabic. However, it is not widely spoken, though the Malay language does have a large number of loan words from Arabic. You also might notice some examples of Malay written with Arabic letters. This is called Jawi, and it is still used for religious publications and inscriptions, especially in more conservative states like [[Kelantan]], although the Latin alphabet is much more commonly used throughout the country. The Chinese community in Malaysia speaks a wide variety of Chinese dialects including [[Cantonese phrasebook|Cantonese]], [[Teochew phrasebook|Teochew]], [[Hakka phrasebook|Hakka]], [[Hainanese phrasebook|Hainanese]], [[Fuzhou dialect phrasebook|Hokchiu]] and [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]]. [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] is taught in Chinese schools while Cantonese is commonly heard in the mass media due to the popularity of TVB serials from Hong Kong among the Chinese community, so many are conversant in both, regardless of their native dialect. Malaysian cities with large ethnic Chinese populations will often have a dialect serving as a lingua franca among that community: in Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh, this is Cantonese; in Penang and Klang, Hokkien; and in Kota Kinabalu, Hakka. The most commonly spoken Indian language is [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]]; others include [[Malayalam phrasebook|Malayalam]], [[Punjabi phrasebook|Punjabi]] and [[Telugu phrasebook|Telugu]]. In the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia bordering Thailand, there are various ethnic Thai communities, known locally as the ''Orang Siam'', who speak various dialects of [[Thai phrasebook|Thai]]. [[Malacca]] in the south is also home to a Portuguese community which speaks a [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]] based creole. The remote forest areas of Peninsular Malaysia are also home to various tribal people known as the ''Orang Asli'', who speak various indigenous languages such as Semelai, Temuan and many others. In East Malaysia several indigenous languages are also spoken, especially [[Iban phrasebook|Iban]] and Kadazan. Films and television programmes are usually shown in their original language with Malay subtitles, although some children's programmes are dubbed into Malay. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== {{VisaRestriction |Entry '''will be refused''' to citizens of [[Israel]] with an Israeli passport unless holding a letter of approval from the Malaysian Ministry of Home Affairs. Additionally citizens of Israel require an onward ticket and will be asked to purchase one or be '''refused entry'''. Malaysia is no longer concerned about other nationals' passports that show entry stamps and/or visas from Israel. |lastedit=2013-03-07 }} ====Visa==== [[Image:World map of the visa policy of Malaysia.png|thumb|375px]] Most nationalities can enter Malaysia without a visa and can reside in Malaysia for 14 to 90 days, depending on their nationality. Refer to the '''[https://www.kln.gov.my/ Ministry of Foreign Affairs]''' for current information regarding visa requirements and stay periods. The East Malaysian states of [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]] each maintains its own immigration system and separate controls: even Malaysians from other states require a passport or MyKad on arrival. Those who wish to enter Malaysia for purposes other than for a Social or Business visit still require a visa for any period except for US citizens who enter for the purpose of studying. Nationals of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Montenegro, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Serbia, and Sri Lanka need a visa but can apply for an '''e-visa''', which is valid for 3 months for a stay of up to 30 days. You'll have to print out the visa once it's issued and bring proof of sufficient funds, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation when you enter the country. Citizens of India are exempted needing to have a visa for a stay of up to 30 days until December 31, 2026. '''Overstaying''' a visa will result in a US$10, €7.50 or RM30 fine per day. However it's fairly simple to avoid overstaying a visa by doing a "visa run" to a neighbouring country overland or via a cheap flight. Malaysia may impose '''caning''' as a punishment for overstaying a visa. ====Malaysia Digital Arrival Card==== Since 2024, all foreign travellers must complete the '''[https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)]''' online for every visit to Malaysia. You can only complete this card a maximum of 3 days ahead of your arrival — in practice you can even submit it on the day of arrival while in the queue to immigration. At KLIA there are also PCs available before immigration where you can complete the card. ====Autogates==== Travellers from most visa-free countries may use the '''autogates''' to complete immigration formalities when entering and exiting Malaysia via multiple ports of entry such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and the Causeway in Johor Bahru. Your passport needs to be valid for a minimum of 6 months if entering via KLIA, or 3 months if entering by road from Singapore. Entry through any other immigration checkpoint will require you to be processed at a manned immigration counter. {{infobox|Fingerprinting at Immigration|Malaysian Immigration authorities '''fingerprint''' visitors on arrival and departure. These fingerprints may well find their way to other country's authorities or other non-state agencies.}} It is advisable to use autogates if you can, as the immigration queues can be quite brutal. If you are qualified for the autogates, you don't need to enroll. You can proceed directly to an autogate, even if it's your first visit. There is one exception: if you want to proceed to East Malaysia, you need to go to a human counter and have your passport stamped as it is required by Malaysian law. You will need to clear immigration by showing your passport with an entry stamp when you arrive at a port in East Malaysia. If you are not a Malaysian citizen and cannot use the autogates, '''ensure that your passport is stamped on entry''', or you would be considered to have entered illegally otherwise (and Malaysian immigration officials don't always give entry stamps unprompted). Fines on the order of RM3,000 will be imposed when you try to leave without the entry stamp in your passport. Also '''ensure that your passport is stamped when you leave''', or you would be considered to have left illegally otherwise, which could cause problems should you wish to visit Malaysia again in the future. ====Transit visas==== Even though citizens of Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka normally require a visa, they can transit the same airport for up to 120 hours provided they arrive and depart on the same airline, land at [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]], [[Kota Kinabalu]], [[Kuching]], [[Penang]] or [[Johor Bahru]] and present an air ticket for the onward flight. ====Customs==== Travellers are not permitted to bring more than the equivalent of US$10,000 in Malaysian ringgit per person in and out of the country. There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you can bring into or out of Malaysia, but you are required to declare to customs if the total amount of cash and traveller's cheques you are carrying exceeds the equivalent of US$10,000 per person. Non-Muslim travellers aged 21 and above are permitted to bring up to 1L of alcohol into Malaysia. There is ''no'' duty free allowance for tobacco products including cigarettes; all tobacco products must be declared and duties paid. ===By plane=== [[File:KLIA MTB&Tower.jpg|thumb|[[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]] in [[Sepang]], [[Selangor]].]] National carrier '''[https://www.malaysiaairlines.com Malaysia Airlines]''' (MAS) has extensive coverage within Asia, and intercontinental flights to Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. It regularly ranks high in airline quality assessments. Low-cost carrier '''AirAsia''' and its sister company, '''AirAsia X''', connects an ever-expanding set of countries including [[Australia]], [[China]], [[Cambodia]], [[Hong Kong]], [[India]], [[Indonesia]], [[Laos]], [[Macau]], [[New Zealand]], the [[Philippines]], [[Singapore]], [[Sri Lanka]], [[Thailand]], [[Myanmar]] and [[Vietnam]]. Emirates also flies from most cities to [[Kuala Lumpur]] via [[Dubai]], and flights to [[Perth]], [[Australia]], make a brief stop in [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport|KLIA]]. * {{listing | name=AirAsia | alt= | url=http://www.airasia.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 3 8775-4000, 1 300 88 9933 (in country only)| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Malaysia Airlines | alt= | url=http://www.malaysiaairlines.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 3 7846-3000, 1-300-88-3000 (in country only)| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Emirates Airlines | alt= | url=http://www.emirates.com/my/english/index.aspx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 36 207 4999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} Most international flights land at '''[[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]] [http://www.klia.com.my (KLIA)]''' ({{IATA|KUL}}). KLIA's predecessor, the '''Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport''' ({{IATA|SZB}}) in Subang near [[Kuala Lumpur]] handles mostly domestic turboprop fights, with limited regional services to [[Singapore]] and [[Jakarta]]. See the [[Kuala Lumpur#get in|Kuala Lumpur '''Get in''' section]] for detailed airport information. Other airports which have significant numbers of flights to regional destinations are [[Kota Kinabalu]] (Sabah), [[Penang]], [[Kuching]] (Sarawak), [[Langkawi]] and [[Johor Bahru]]. Some other smaller airports also serve limited international flights from [[Singapore]]. === By train === * '''From Singapore:''' There's a shuttle train service which runs seven times each way during the morning and evening peak periods from Woodlands Train Station (in the north of [[Singapore]]) to JB sentral in [[Johor Bahru]], costing MYR5 from the Malaysian side and SGD5 on the Singapore side. Conventional intercity trains then connect [[Johor Bahru]] with [[Gemas]] (where you can transfer to a train to [[Kuala Lumpur]]) and Tumpat, near [[Kota Bharu]]. They don't always match up to the shuttle times, so be prepared for long waiting times or get a backup plan by bus should you miss the shuttle. Early morning trains to Singapore and late evening trains to Malaysia are usually packed on the weekdays and the traffic flow reverses on the weekends. Booking online at the [http://www.ktmb.com.my KTMB website] may reserve a precious seat without hassle. When travelling from Singapore into Malaysia, both Singaporean and Malaysian immigration checks are conducted at Woodlands Train Station before boarding the train for Malaysia. In the reverse direction, Malaysian immigration checks are conducted at JB Sentral before boarding, while Singaporean immigration checks are conducted on arrival in Woodlands. * '''From Thailand:''' Trains from Thailand start and terminate at the border at [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] where Thai and Malaysian immigration formalities are all conveniently done in the station, and you can transfer between Malaysian and Thai trains. There are two Padang Besar stations; one in Thailand and one in Malaysia; be sure to get off the train only at the Padang Besar station in Malaysia, as that is where both Thai and Malaysian immigration checks are conducted, and where transfers between Malaysian and Thai trains take place. There is also a less used eastern route from [[Hat Yai]] to Thai border town [[Sungai Kolok]], but there are no through trains to the nearby Malaysian station at Wakaf Bahru (near [[Kota Bharu]]). === By bus === Long-distance buses/coaches into Malaysia run from Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. Please see the relevant city pages for more details. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — There are buses to [[Miri]] and [[Kota Kinabalu]], leaving from the waterfront in downtown [[Bandar Seri Begawan]]. There are also buses to [[Limbang]]. * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — Direct buses operate between [[Pontianak]] or [[Singkawang]] in [[West Kalimantan]] and [[Kuching]] in [[Sarawak]]. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — A multitude of bus companies operate direct routes from Singapore to various destinations in [[Peninsular Malaysia]], including [[Malacca]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Penang]], [[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] cities and even [[Petaling Jaya]] and [[Subang Jaya]]. Frequent public buses make the short run between Singapore and [[Johor Bahru]], and you can save a few bucks by changing at JB's Larkin terminal to a cheap domestic bus instead of taking a more expensive direct bus. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — Several companies operate services from [[Kuala Lumpur]] and other cities in Malaysia to [[Hat Yai]] in [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]], where direct connections are available to [[Bangkok]] and many other Thai destinations. === By taxi=== Special cross-border taxis operate between Singapore and Johor Bahru. See [[Johor_Bahru#By_taxi]] for details. === By road=== [[File:Danok Sadao Border Crossing2.jpg|thumb|Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint in [[Kedah]], on the border with [[Thailand]]]] Land crossings are possible from [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]] and Singapore into [[Peninsular Malaysia]], as well as from Brunei and [[Kalimantan]] (the Indonesian side of Borneo) into [[Sarawak]]. There is no official crossing into [[Sabah]] from Indonesia even though they share a land border. An International Drivers Permit (IDP) is required. See the respective city or state pages for more detailed information. Starting from 1st October 2024, a vehicle entry permit (VEP) is required to drive a foreign-registered car into Malaysia from Singapore. You must apply for the permit [https://vep.jpj.gov.my/ online], affix the RFID tag that will be sent to your home address to your car, and activate the tag online before you can drive into Malaysia. Unless you already have a car in Singapore, it makes more sense to cross the border first and rent much more cheaply in Malaysia. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — The main crossings are at '''Sungai Tujoh''' on the [[Miri]], [[Sarawak]], to [[Bandar Seri Begawan]] (Brunei) road, and the '''Kuala Lurah-Tedungan''' checkpoint which is used for traffic travelling between Bandar Seri Begawan and [[Limbang]] in [[Sarawak]]. You can also access the [[Temburong]] district of Brunei by road from [[Limbang]] via the Pandaruan (Puni on the Brunei side) checkpoint and [[Lawas]] via Trusan (Labu on the Brunei side). * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — The main crossing is at the '''Tebedu-Entikong''' checkpoint on the main [[Kuching]]-[[Pontianak]] road. The other two official crossings are the '''Biawak-Aruk''' crossing on the main Kuching-[[Singkawang]] road, and the more remote '''Lubok Antu-Nanga Badau''' crossing. All three crossings are between the Malaysian state of [[Sarawak]] and the Indonesian province of [[West Kalimantan]]. There are also several unofficial crossings that are used by locals, but as a foreigner, you should not use them as that is considered to be illegal entry. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — The two crossings are the '''Causeway''' which links [[Johor Bahru]] with '''Woodlands''' in Singapore, and the Malaysia-Singapore '''Second Link''' (''Linkedua'') which links [[Iskandar Puteri]] with Tuas in Singapore. See [[Johor Baru#Get in|Johor Bahru '''Get in''' section]] and [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore '''Get in''' section]] for more details. Generally speaking, the Second Link is less congested than the Causeway, and is more convenient for those who wish to drive up the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, but a lot less convenient for people who just want to visit Johor Bahru. Singapore-registered cars must have their fuel tank filled to at least ¾ full when leaving Singapore. '''Cycling into Malaysia''' is permitted only through the Causeway but not the Second Link; use the motorcycle lanes and have your entry processed at the manual motorcycle counters. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — International checkpoints (from west to east, with the Thai towns in brackets) are at '''[[Wang Kelian]]''' ([[Satun]]) and '''[[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]]''' ([[Padang Besar (Thailand)|Padang Besar]]) in [[Perlis]], '''[[Bukit Kayu Hitam]]''' ([[Sadao]]) and '''Kota Putra''' (Banprokob) in [[Kedah]], '''Pengkalan Hulu''' (Betong) in [[Perak]], and '''Bukit Bunga''' (Buketa) and '''[[Rantau Panjang]]''' ([[Sungai Kolok]]) in [[Kelantan]]. Thai immigration has long been known to demand a bribe of RM2/20 baht per person to stamp you in or out, though there has been a crackdown on this. Instead, there is now an official fee levied by Thai immigration if you are crossing the border at peak times (5AM-8:30AM, noon-1PM or 4:30PM-9PM on weekdays, and all day on weekends and both Malaysian and Thai public holidays); this is 25 baht for the driver and 5 baht for each passenger if crossing the border by car, and 10 baht for the rider and 3 baht for the pillion if crossing by motorcycle. No fee is payable if you are walking across the border. === By boat === [[File:Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal.jpg|thumb|Ferry terminal in [[Iskandar Puteri]], [[Johor]]]] Ferries connect various points in [[Peninsular Malaysia]] with [[Sumatra]] in Indonesia and [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]], [[Sarawak]] with Brunei, and [[Sabah]] with [[East Kalimantan]] in Indonesia and [[Mindanao]] in the Philippines. Luxury cruises also run from Singapore and sometimes [[Phuket]] (Thailand) to Malaysia. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — Ferries travel daily between the Muara Ferry Terminal in Brunei and [[Labuan]]. * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — The main jumping-off points from Indonesia are the [[Riau Islands]] of [[Batam]], [[Bintan]] and [[Karimun]]; [[Dumai]], [[Medan]] and [[Pekanbaru]] on the [[Sumatra]] mainland as well as [[Nunukan]] in [[East Kalimantan]]. Ferries link [[Batam]] with Batu Pahat, [[Iskandar Puteri]] and [[Johor Bahru]]; [[Bintan]] with [[Johor Bahru]]; [[Karimun]] with Batu Pahat and Kukup in [[Johor]]; Dumai with [[Malacca]], Muar in [[Johor]], Port Dickson (in [[Negeri Sembilan]]) and [[Port Klang]], the port for [[Selangor]]; Pekanbaru with [[Malacca]]. Daily ferries also link Nunukan and [[Tarakan]] with Tawau in [[Sabah]]. There are also minor crossings like between Bengkalis in [[Riau]] and Batu Pahat; [[Sumatra]] and [[Malacca]] and Muar in [[Johor]]; and Tanjung Balai Asahan in [[North Sumatra]] with [[Port Klang]], the port for [[Selangor]]. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — A daily ferry runs between Tanah Merah and [[Desaru]], and there is a weekend service between Tanah Merah and [[Pengerang]], both in [[Johor]]. See the [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore '''Get in''' section]] for details. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — Four ferries travel daily (reduced to three during Ramadan) between Tammalang at [[Satun]] and Kuah on [[Langkawi]], Malaysia. Both passenger bum boats and vehicular ferries operate between Ban Taba near [[Tak Bai]] in [[Narathiwat_(province)|Narathiwat province]] and Pengkalan Kubur in [[Kelantan]], Malaysia. === On foot === It is possible to enter Malaysia from [[Thailand]] on foot at [[Wang Kelian]] and [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] (both in [[Perlis]]), [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]] ([[Kedah]]), Pengkalan Hulu ([[Perak]]) and [[Rantau Panjang]] ([[Kelantan]]). From [[Singapore]], it is possible to cross into Malaysia on foot using the Causeway, but be prepared for a very long walk as Malaysian immigration is now located 2km inland from the border. Unlike the previous customs and immigration complex, the current one was not set up to handle pedestrian traffic, meaning that there are no pedestrian footpaths on the Malaysian side, and you have to walk on the road among vehicular traffic to get to customs and immigration. Crossing the Second Link on foot is not allowed; not that there would be any practical way to continue your journey on either side even if you did. In East Malaysia, there is a ferry from [[Kota Kinabalu]] to [[Labuan]]. == Get around == Immigration controls are in place for travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, as well as between the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. Malaysian citizens need to present their ID cards, while foreign citizens are required to present their passports in order to travel. === By plane === Flying is the only practical option for traveling between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, as well as reaching some of the more remote outposts of Borneo. Largely thanks to budget carrier '''[http://www.airasia.com AirAsia]''', Malaysia is crisscrossed by a web of affordable flights with advertised promotional prices starting at RM9 for flights booked well in advance. State carrier '''[http://www.malaysiaairlines.com Malaysia Airlines]''' also has competitive fares which now include equally or even lower-priced tickets if booked in advance through the internet, with a few more frills. Their offshoot '''[https://www.fireflyz.com.my/my/en/home.html Firefly]''' operates a handy network of turboprop flights radiating out of Penang and Kuala Lumpur's second airport Subang (Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah). In [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]], '''[http://www.maswings.com.my MASWings]''', operates turboprop services linking interior communities, including those in the [[Kelabit Highlands]], with coastal cities. === By bus === {{infobox|Report Bad Drivers|Bus drivers (especially on more "rural" routes) sometimes drive carelessly, speed like maniacs, overtake on blind corners, etc. The vast majority of journeys are problem-free. However, some horrific accidents attributed to reckless driving have led to a crackdown and a nationwide hotline, and an SMS number for reporting these drivers/vehicles has been set up. This number is conveniently pasted on the back of every single large vehicle in the country.}} [[File:Higer-RapidPenang.JPG|thumb|Public bus in Penang]] The cheapest way to travel in Malaysia is by bus. All towns of any size have a bus terminal offering connections to other parts of the country. There are many companies of varying degrees of dependability, but two of the largest and more reliable are '''[https://www.transnasional.com.my/ Transnasional]''' and '''[http://www.plusliner.com.my/ NICE/Plusliner]'''. 24-seater "luxury" buses are recommended for long-distance travel. Air conditioning on some buses can be extremely cold so don't forget to bring a good sweater, pants and socks, especially for overnight journeys on luxury buses! If travelling on holidays or even over the weekend, it is advisable to reserve your seats in advance. Many bus companies allow for you to book online directly through their website. However, some only allow online booking for individuals with Malaysian credit cards, which is not really convenient for international visitors. With some website you will still have to pay a station fee of RM2 at the bus station, with others not. At TBS (KL) it is easy to book a bus directly at the station. Often RM0.40 are charged as insurance by stations, tell them if you don't want that. The common booking websites are: * {{listing | name=Bus Online Ticket |alt=| url=https://www.busonlineticket.com/ | email=sales@busonlineticket.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+603 2027 4626 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-05-26| content= }} * {{listing | name=redBus | alt= | url=http://www.redbus.sg | email=support@redbus.sg | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+65-31582888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Easybook | alt=Easibook | url=http://www.easybook.com | email=enquiry@easybook.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 332 7718 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-03-27 | content= }} === By train === [[File:Padang Besar 4.jpg|thumb|KTM ETS train at Padang Besar station]] State operator [http://www.ktmb.com.my '''Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad''' (KTMB)] provides relatively inexpensive and generally reliable services around [[Peninsular Malaysia]] (but not [[Sabah]]/[[Sarawak]] in [[Borneo]]). The main western line connects [[Butterworth]] (Penang), [[Ipoh]], [[Kuala Lumpur]] and [[Johor Bahru]], while the eastern line branches off at [[Gemas]] and runs through [[Gua Musang]] and the [[Taman Negara]] to [[Tumpat]], near the Thai border and the [[Perhentian Islands]]. Be sure to hold on to your ticket, as it will be checked at your destination station before you are allowed to leave. The pride of KTMB's fleet is the '''ETS''' (Electric Train Service) from the Thai border at [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] to [[Segamat]], with a branch line to [[Butterworth]] (with transfers to/from [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] by ferry), running clean, punctual and modern air-conditioned trains daily at up to 140&nbsp;km/h. ETS trains are classified as '''Express''', '''Platinum''', '''Gold''' and '''Silver''', with the former the fastest and stopping only at major stations, and the latter being the slowest and stopping at every station. Seating in all four is the same but faster trains are slightly more expensive, with the fares for the popular KL-Ipoh route clocking in at 46 RM (Express) to 31 RM (Silver). Platinum trains also offer a '''business class''' cabin at extra cost, with wider seats and more leg room, and access to a business class lounge if you are departing from KL Sentral. There is no longer ETS service from Padang Besar to Butterworth; the route is served by '''KTM Komuter''' trains instead, which while also electrified and air-conditioned are designed for commuter rather than long-distance travel. The rest of the network, though, is mostly single-track, with slow diesel locos and all too frequent breakdowns and delays. In May, 2016 KTMB ceased all sleeper trains on the western line, following the electrification of the track to Gemas. An air conditioned 2nd class only, diesel shuttle train now connects the section from Gemas to JB Sentral. Electrification and double tracking of the Gemas to [[Johor Bahru]] section is expected to be completed by 2025. The '''[[Jungle Railway]]''' is the apt description for the eastern line between [[Tumpat]] (close to the Thai border) and [[Gemas]], including stops at [[Gua Musang]], [[Kuala Lipis]], [[Jerantut]] (for [[Taman Negara]]) and Wakaf Bahru (for [[Kota Bharu]] and the [[Perhentian Islands]]). The daytime services on this line use clean, modern and air-conditioned "Class 61" diesel multiple units (DMUs), which have replaced the old non-air-conditioned locomotive-hauled trains, though the seats do not recline, which can make them rather uncomfortable for longer journeys. No daytime services run along the entire line, so you will need to change trains at Kuala Lipis to travel all the way between Gemas and Tumpat. The eastern line also has one night express train (for which reservations are possible and recommended) going in each direction between Johor Bahru and Tumpat. These use older locomotive-hauled trainsets, which have air-con seats and '''Superior Night''' (ADNS) sleeper cars, which have upper and lower berths along each side, each bunk having a solid partition at each end and a side curtain for privacy. The carriages shake and rattle quite a bit but are comfortable and clean, though the toilets may come across as a little grimy. These trains have windows for both top and bottom bunks, unlike on Thai sleeper trains. A third line, known as the '''[https://www.mrl.com.my/en/ East Coast Rail Link]''' is under construction between [[Port Klang]] and [[Kota Bharu]], with plans for it to pass through [[Kuantan]] and [[Kuala Terengganu]] along the way. It is scheduled to be completed in 2027. Tickets can be booked and even printed online at KTMB's site. Enquiries and reservations can be made by phone at KTMB's call centres, {{Phone|+60 3 2267-1200}} (Malaysia) or, {{Phone|+65 6222-5165}} (Singapore). In East Malaysia, the only railway line is run by [https://railway.sabah.gov.my/ '''Jabatan Kereta Api Negeri Sabah''' (JKNS)]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Web-site in Malay only), running from Tanjung Aru near [[Kota Kinabalu]] to the town of [[Tenom]]. The '''[https://www.belmond.com/trains/asia/eastern-and-oriental-express/ Eastern & Oriental Express]''' was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and as of May 2025 only conducts luxury excursions within Malaysia. === By car === [[File:Malaysia Expressway Network.svg|thumb|A map of Malaysia's expressways (all are in Peninsular Malaysia; none are in Sabah or Sarawak), with dotted lines indicating proposed ones that have yet to be built]] {{main|Driving in Malaysia}} Malaysia has an excellent highway network with over {{km|2000}} of expressways, culminating in the '''North-South Expressway''' (''Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan'') along the West Coast from [[Johor Bahru]] at the border with [[Singapore]] all the way to [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]] in [[Kedah]] at the border with [[Thailand]]. There is also the '''East Coast Expressway''' (''Lebuhraya Pantai Timur''), crossing Peninsular Malaysia coast-to-coast from [[Kuala Lumpur]] to [[Kuantan]] before heading up north towards [[Kuala Terengganu]]. Petrol is slightly cheaper than market prices at RM1.90/litre (Ron 95) (in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak). Tolls are payable on expressways, but these are priced at varying degrees, ranging from expensive to reasonable: driving the length of the country {{km|734}} from the Thai border to Singapore costs RM108. While you can drive from Singapore to Thailand within a day on the West Coast, the highway system is considerably less developed on the East Coast, and even less so in Sabah and Sarawak, so be sure to factor in additional travel time if travelling in those areas. Toll prices for highways and causeways inside major cities, especially Kuala Lumpur, are priced exorbitantly, ranging from RM4 to RM7 for each exit. For those thinking of using GPS (Garmin, Papago, Galactio and Mio-Polnav), the Malaysia maps can be downloaded for free from http://www.malfreemaps.com/index.php{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} Garmin user lucky enough to have another choice from http://www.malsingmaps.com/portal/. Both party maps is contributed by the amazing non-profit group of people who share a common passion to make a GPS maps of Malaysia. While driving quality and habits in Malaysia are better than in most of the rest of Southeast Asia, they are not necessarily great, especially compared to what visitors from most Western countries are used to at home. Traffic in Malaysia drives on the left, a legacy left by the British. Beware reckless motorcyclists, especially at night, and especially if you are a pedestrian: locals typically disregard a red light for left turns, putting pedestrians at risk. As a motorist, at traffic lights, motorcyclists will accumulate in front of you — let them drive away first to avoid accidents. Care is needed when driving in larger cities, such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and George Town. Problems include apparently suicidal motorcyclists, congested traffic lanes throughout the day, and bewildering roads especially in the older parts of the city where planning was virtually nonexistent by the then British colonial occupiers. Out of town, however, cars and motorcycles are the best and sometimes the only way to explore the country. Some of the more rural areas have motorcycles and scooters to rent for as little as RM25/day, a great way to explore the local area or larger islands like Langkawi. As expected, most rental agencies will require a valid driving licence to be presented upon rental. Fuel levels are often compared before and after rental, and the vehicle is also checked for damage, so ensure everything is documented, and request a refund of any excess fuel if possible. The bigger car rental companies like Hertz and Avis may also require you to have a valid credit card where a deposit will be authorised but not deducted from (unless there is damage to the car). === By taxi === [[File:Taxi in Penang 02.JPG|thumb|Taxi in Penang]] Taxis are available in all cities and larger towns, although in smaller places you may have to call one (ask any shopkeeper or consult the yellow-pages). You will generally need to negotiate the fare in advance, although prepaid coupon taxis are usually available at airports. RM5 should suffice for a short cross-town trip, while RM100 is enough to hire a taxi for a full day. [[File:KotaKinabalu Sabah Taxi-waiting-for-passengers-01.jpg|thumb|Taxis in [[Kota Kinabalu]], [[Sabah]]]] Many taxis will refuse to use the meter, even though there is an official rate. Most taxis now have a sticker on the rear door informing tourists that haggling is prohibited. Taxi drivers, sensing that you are a tourist, may drive around and take a very long route to reach your destination. If you need a taxi late at night, it is best to use the dial-a-taxi service as there have been incidents in which taxis flagged down during those hours have been fake/unregistered. An unregistered taxi driver might rob or assault you with the help of other assailants. You are also more likely to get a metered taxi by flagging one at a street than at a taxi stand. It is advisable to study maps and compare fares on the internet before visiting the country. Knowing distances between places is helpful when negotiating with taxi drivers. They won't try to fool even a foreigner who demonstrates clearly that he knows the distance from point A to point B is 50 km and not 150 km. Do not accept the first rates for inter-city travels by car offered by hotels, as these could be as much as double normal prices. In this case, negotiate with a taxi driver directly for a better and fair price (for example, a hotel near Balok Beach, not very far from Kuantan, asked 800 RM for a ride to Johor Bahru, while a negotiated price with a taxi driver who could be found in downtown Kuantan came down to a normal 400 RM). But for all this you need to know the exact distance and if possible even the exact itinerary between your departure and arrival point. In Kuala Lumpur, the budget taxis are usually coloured Red and White (City taxi – these taxis are not allowed to travel out of the city e.g. to another state) or Yellow. Taxis are usually small saloons such as Proton Wira and run on NGV (Natural Gas). The Blue taxis are larger saloons or MPVs (Multi Purpose Vehicles) and more luxurious. These cost typically 25–30% more than the budget taxis & are normally available at taxi stands all over Kuala Lumpur including the major malls & hotels. The Red & White taxis can be hailed off the roads and are metered. Ensure that the taxi driver is a Malaysian (all drivers must have a taxi permit &amp; license with their photo on it) before you board, as unscrupulous taxi owners have been known to rent their taxi out to unlicensed stand-ins. All legal taxi drivers must be Malaysian citizens or permanent residents as the Malaysian government does not issue work visas to foreigners to drive taxis. Additionally, beware of unlicensed taxis ''(taxi sapu)'' at the airports. They can literally take you for a ride. There will be touts at the airports offering travellers their taxi service, even pretending to be legitimate. As unbelievable as it may sound, some have been known to rob first time visitors hundreds of ringgit for a single trip into the city, charging 100 times more than the correct fare. At the airports '''always''' get your taxi from the authorised operators' booths set up in the airport itself & '''never''' from anyone that solicits directly. They will always claim to be legitimate but are rarely licensed and may be unsafe. The taxi operator booths can provide you with receipts. Another tip is to book your taxis in advance. All good hotels' concierge will be able to assist you with this. If travelling in an unlicensed taxi you may not be covered by your travel insurance should that taxi be involved in a mishap. === By ride-hailing === The most popular ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/my/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former Southeast Asian operations. You can pay with your card (via the Grab app) or cash; most drivers have change. Rides within KL seldomly cost more than RM15. If it seems overly expensive at a certain moment, walk a little and check again — often near major points of interests ride are more expensive. ===By bicycle=== Although Malaysia's cycling infrastructure is not well developed, travelling by bicycle is a good way to enjoy the scenery while exploring rural Malaysia. Long-distance bicycle tours are sometimes organised by enthusiast groups, including some cross-border tours from Singapore. When cycling on the road, you are required to ride in a single file, and riding in the shoulder is forbidden. Cycling on pedestrian footpaths is also forbidden except for toy bicycles ridden by children under the age of 12. All bicycles must be equipped with a bell and independently-operated brakes on each wheel. A white front light and a red rear light are mandatory when cycling at night. It is legal cycle on any road unless there is a sign prohibiting it. While there is no specific law against cycling on expressways, you are highly advised not to do so for safety reasons; all PLUS expressways (including the Malaysian side of the Second Link from Singapore) and the LATAR expressway linking Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Selangor have signs prohibiting cyclists. ===By boat=== Ferries link the mainlands of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia with several outlying islands. The main ferries foreigners are likely to use are from [[Butterworth]] (for connections with the railway network) to [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] on Penang island, as well as ferries to Kuah in [[Langkawi]] from [[Kuala Perlis]] and [[Kuala Kedah]]. Direct ferries between Penang and Langkawi no longer operate. On the East Coast, ferries operate to the popular dive resort islands, including from [[Mersing]] to [[Pulau Tioman]], from [[Merang]] to [[Pulau Redang]] and from [[Kuala Besut]] to the [[Perhentian Islands]]. There are no ferries between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. ==See== [[File:Penang Malaysia Wat-Chaiya-Mangkalaram-Temple-01.jpg|thumb|Wat Chaiyamangkalaram in [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], [[Penang]]]] [[File:Cameron Highlands Tea Plantation 2012.JPG|thumb|Tea plantations in the [[Cameron Highlands]], [[Pahang]]]] Malaysia is a fascinating country with many faces. It's multi-ethnic and multi-cultural, and its attractions vary from the iconic Petronas Towers in bustling '''[[Kuala Lumpur]]''' to perfect sandy beaches lined with palm trees and dense jungles with orangutangs and tigers. There are various impressive '''national parks'''. Expeditions range from those where you hardly lose sight of the hotel to those where you are fully immersed in the jungle for weeks, with only the guide and yourself. To spot a tiger or wild elephant in its natural habitat you might have to spend more than a few days in the wild, but you'll have no trouble seeing smaller wildlife. '''[[Bako National Park]]''' is the oldest national park in Malaysia and one of the best places to see proboscis monkeys. The vast jungles of '''[[Taman Negara]]''' have become a popular destination for [[ecotourism|ecotourists]], just like the remote but gorgeous '''[[Gunung Mulu National Park]]''', a World Heritage Site famous for its limestone karst formations, stone pinnacles and huge caves. To escape from the muggy tropics, do as the English did and head up to the cool tea plantations of the '''[[Cameron Highlands]]''', the quaint Tudor-style village on '''[[Fraser's Hill]]''' or climb '''[[Mount Kinabalu]]''' in [[Sabah]]. For many people, Malaysia brings pictures of pristine beaches with great diving opportunities to mind - and for good reason. '''[[Sipadan]]''' off the coast of Sabah, and the beautiful '''[[Perhentian]]''' Islands are among the best (and most popular) places. Coastlines in the less industrialized parts of the country, in general, are well worth driving through for their natural beauty and relaxing seaside kampung (villages). Follow the crowds to the postcard perfect sands of the '''[[Langkawi]]''' Islands, where you can have a cocktail on the beach and stay in one of the many resorts. If you're most interested in taking the pulse of a city, don't miss '''[[Kuala Lumpur]]''''s crazy quilt ultra-modern skyline, including the famous Petronas Twin Towers. [[George Town (Malaysia)|'''George Town''']], the capital city of [[Penang]], is known for its great food, colonial architecture, and relatively long-standing and institutionalized Chinese, Peranakan and Indian communities, who share the city with ethnic Malays, Thais and Eurasians. '''[[Ipoh]]''' is a good choice if you enjoy a somewhat slower paced city that features elegant colonial-era buildings from about 100 years ago, and '''[[Malacca]]''' is for those who want to trace the colonial and imperial history of Malaysia several hundred years further back. For a completely different experience, head to '''[[Kota Bharu]]''' to discover a unique conservative Islamic regional culture influenced by [[Thailand]], only a few kilometres away, or visit the diverse cities of [[East Malaysia]], like '''[[Kuching]]''' and '''[[Kota Kinabalu]]'''. Especially when travelling with children, consider visiting one of the country's excellent zoos, such as [[Taiping]] Zoo, [[Kuala Lumpur]]'s Zoo Negara, [[Johor Bahru|Johor]] Zoo and [[Malacca]]'s Zoo. == Do == [[File:Perhentian Beach (106319844).jpg|thumb|A beach on [[Perhentian Islands]], [[Terengganu]].]] [[File:Amphiprion clarkii sipadan.jpg|thumb|A first glance at Sipadan's colourful underwater life]] Malaysia has excellent '''[[scuba diving]]'''. Some of the more popular spots are the islands off the [[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] of peninsular Malaysia ([[Perhentian]], [[Redang]], [[Tioman]] and many more), although the dive season is limited to April to September. However, the most famous dive site &mdash; often ranked among the best in the world &mdash; is [[Sipadan]], off the easternmost tip of [[Sabah|Malaysian Borneo]]. There are many other less well known sites, like [[Layang Layang]]. ===Whitewater Rafting=== You can find tame Grade I to incredibly difficult and dangerous Grade V rapids in Malaysia's many national parks: * Jeram Besu - Grade I-III - [[Pahang]] * [[Telom River]] - Grade V - [[Pahang]] * Kuala Perahu - [[Pahang]] * Lipis River - [[Pahang]] * Anak Jelai River - Grade I-II - [[Pahang]] * Tembeling River - Grade I-II - [[Pahang]] * Sedim River - Grade III-IV - [[Kedah]] * Sungai Selangor - Grade I-III - [[Selangor]] * Kiulu River - Grade II - [[Sabah]] * Padas River - Grade III-IV - Sabah * Sungai Itek (Kampar River) - Grade I-III - [[Perak]] * Sungkai River - Grade I-II - Perak * Singoh River - Grade V - Perak * Endau River - [[Johor]] * Nenggiri River - Grade I-III [[Kelantan]] * [[Kuala Kubu Bahru]], [[Selangor]] ===[[Martial arts]]=== [[File:Men Pencak Silat Match Malaysia vs Vietnam.jpg|thumb|A silat match taking place.]] Malaysia is home to a uniquely Malay style of martial arts known as '''silat'''. Silat tournaments are held between different schools in the country, and the Southeast Asian Games is the premier international tournament in silat, with competitors from the neighbouring countries as well. There is also an equally traditional stylised dance version of silat called ''silat gayung'', which is quite worth seeing if you have the chance. In addition, there are also many kung fu masters among the ethnic Chinese community, and Malaysia is consistently one of the top performers in international wushu competitions. ===Music=== Malaysia is home to a uniquely Malay form of singing called ''dikir barat''. Dikir barat is typically sung by a choir, though there may also be solo parts, and is also either sung ''a capella'', or accompanied only by percussion instruments. Dikir barat competitions are fairly popular among the Malay community, and are frequently broadcast on Malaysian national television. == Buy == ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malaysian ringgit | currencyCode=RM | date=January 2025 | USD=4.5 | EUR=4.6 | GBP=5.6 | SGD=3.5 | AUD=2.8 | IDR=2.8 | THB=1.3 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/myr-malaysian-ringgit XE.com] }} The Malaysian currency is the '''Malaysian ringgit''', abbreviated as '''RM''' (ISO code: '''MYR'''). It is divided into 100 '''sen''' (cents). The ringgit used to be referred to as the dollar and you may see the '$' symbol on older notes. Coins in Malaysia are issued in denominations of RM0.05 (silver), RM0.10 (silver), RM0.20 (silver or gold), and RM0.50 (silver or gold). Banknotes in Malaysia are issued in denominations of RM1 (blue), RM5 (green), RM10 (red), RM20 (orange), RM50 (green/blue) and RM100 (purple). 5 sen coins are mainly given as change in large establishments or supermarkets whereas peddlers and street vendors might be reluctant to accept them. The Singapore and Brunei dollars are also known as ''ringgit'' in Malay, so when near border areas you might want to check to be sure which currency they are quoting the price in. ====ATMs==== Widely available in cities, but do stock up on cash if heading out into the smaller islands or the jungle. Many ATMs, especially those of local banks, won't charge a fee for withdrawals in Malaysia (e.g. CIMB) — one of the upsides of Islamic banking. However, in 2024, Euronet acquired MEPS and is now the largest non-bank ATM provider in Malaysia. They are well known for their high fees and bad customer experience. Try to avoid them! Many ATMs (like Euronet) will offer to do the currency conversion for you, which is disadvantageous (often involving a markup of 4–14%) — this is how they make money. So, '''always decline [[Money#Dynamic currency conversion|currency conversion]]''' to your home currency! Due to fraud risk, many Malaysian ATMs do not allow you to withdraw using foreign debit cards. If your card is rejected, try another ATM. If you call your bank or credit company, they are often not aware of what happened because the transaction is declined by the Malaysia bank. Make sure to bring cash or other forms of money in case your debit card is rejected. ====Credit cards==== They can be used in most shops, restaurants and hotels, although '''skimming''' can be a problem in dodgier outlets. For credit card usage, make sure your credit/debit card is chip based as most merchants no longer accept '''magnetic strips''' based cards. ====Currency exchange==== Counters can easily found in major shopping areas and have a better exchange rate than in banks and airports. Be sure to say the amount you wish to exchange and ask for the 'best quote' as rates displayed on the board are often negotiable, especially for larger amounts. Large foreign banknotes, such as €500, are almost impossible to change for a good rate in some areas, especially in Sabah or Sarawak, where the banks offer a much lower rate comparing to the one you'd get if changing a banknote of smaller amount. Some money exchangers in Kota Kinabalu or Kuching even may refuse your business if you have large foreign banknotes, so the best option is to bring smaller notes unless you are willing to shop around. '''Foreign currencies''' are ''not'' generally accepted as is. The major exception is Singapore dollars, which may be accepted in Johor Bahru, but at a steep penalty. They're also accepted by KTMB and toll roads, but at an incredibly unfavorable 1:1 exchange rate, an anomaly dating back to the 1970s when the ringgit was interchangeable with the Singapore dollar. ====Banking==== Banks in Malaysia do handle international transactions. These ranges from a nominal fee if you are an account holder to a slightly more expensive amount if you are only walking in to use a certain service. British banks HSBC and Standard Chartered, and Singaporean bank UOB have a presence in Malaysia. Citibank has exited the Malaysian retail banking market, with all its retail banking assets having been taken over by UOB. Local banking giants are Maybank, RHB, Hong Leong Bank, Public Bank & CIMB Bank, & they are a very good alternative to the earlier mentioned banks, especially in terms of pricing, local knowledge & presence as well as international services available e.g. money transfers. For any enquiries and transactions, get a number, sit down and wait for your turn to be served. (There is no need to queue while you wait in air-conditioned comfort!) Banks are open Monday-Friday from 9:30AM-4PM and selected banks are open Saturday 9:30AM–11:30AM except on the first and third Saturdays of each month. In the states of Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, they are open Sunday to Thursday 9:30AM–4PM. === Costs === Most Western visitors will find Malaysia quite cheap, although it is noticeably more expensive than neighbouring Indonesia. You can live in hostel dorms and feast on hawker food for less than RM50 per day, but you'll wish to double this for comfort, particularly if travelling in more expensive East Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is also generally more expensive than the rest of the country. At the other end of the spectrum, luxury hotels and air fares are also quite affordable, with even the fanciest 5-star hotels costing less than RM400/night. [[File:Bukit bintang from kl monorail 2009.jpg|thumb|''Bukit Bintang'', a popular shopping area in [[Kuala Lumpur]]]] ===Tipping=== Tipping is not customary in Malaysia. A service charge of 10% is included in total bill in most air conditioned restaurants, but otherwise, you are not expected to pay anything more than what is stated in the bill. Most expensive restaurants, bars and hotels may indicate prices in the form of RM19++ ("plus plus"), meaning that sales tax (6%) and service charge (10%) will be added to the bill. Hotel tax of 5% may also be added to this. === Shopping === [[Kuala Lumpur]] is a shopping mecca for clothes, electronics, watches and computer goods, with very competitive prices by any standard. Local Malaysian brands include Royal Selangor pewter (thanks to KL's tin-mining heritage), British India and Eilanto. Traditional Malaysian fabrics (''batik'') are a popular souvenir. The cheapest place to easily buy ethnic souvenirs (especially wood-based) is in [[Kuching]], East Malaysia, and the most expensive place is in the major, posh [[Kuala Lumpur]] shopping centres. In fact, Malaysia has over 1000 shopping complexes, but many, especially outside the capital, have low occupancy due to oversupply. In general shops are open 10:30AM–9:30/10PM in the large cities. They open and close for business earlier in the smaller towns and rural areas. Some shops may also be closed on certain days, such as in [[Malacca]] where many shops and restaurants close on Tuesday. For great second-hand shopping from locals try [https://www.carousell.com.my/ Carousell] or [https://www.mudah.my/ Mudah.my]. If you buy too much while shopping in Malaysia (which is quite easy to do), surface postage rates are very reasonable. Excess luggage at the airport is still high but not as high as in many other countries. Check first with your airline. == Eat == [[File:Nasi Lemak dengan Chili Nasi Lemak dan Sotong Pedas, di Penang Summer Restaurant.jpg|thumb|''Nasi lemak'' coconut rice with ''sotong pedas'' (spicy squid), ''sambal'' chili paste, boiled egg, slices of cucumber, ''ikan bilis'' fried anchovies and peanuts served at a restaurant in Penang]] {{main|Cuisine of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei}} The crossroads of Malay, Chinese and [[Indian cuisine]], Malaysia is an excellent place to eat (''makan'' in Malay). Look out for regional specialities and Nyonya (Peranakan) cuisine, the fusion between Malay and [[Chinese cuisine|Chinese cooking]]. There is even unique Eurasian cooking to be found in the Portuguese Settlement in Malacca, the heartland of the Portuguese Eurasian community. Malaysians are very proud of their cooking and most towns or even villages have their own delicious specialities such as [[Penang]] ''char kway teow'', [[Kajang]] satay, [[Ipoh]] bean sprout chicken, [[Sarawak]] ''laksa'', [[Kelantan]]ese ''nasi dagang'' and [[Sabah]]an ''hinava''. Most eateries rely on word of mouth for advertising and are frequently located in the most inconvenient, out-of-the-way places, so you might want to try asking the locals for their personal recommendations. If you intend to travel around Malaysia trying out the local food, don't be fooled by the names. Sometimes two entirely different dishes from different parts of the country can be known by the same name. For example, ''laksa'' refers to completely different noodle dishes in [[Penang]] and [[Sarawak]]. Generally, you can eat pretty much anywhere in Malaysia. Food outlets are comparatively clean – the only thing you might avoid when you frequent the street or hawker stalls is ice for your drinks, since the blocks of ice used there might not be up to your hygienic standards. In actual restaurants this is not a problem. Also you might want to avoid ordering water from hawker stalls or the ''mamak'' restaurants as you may be served unboiled tap water. Cheaper places often do not display prices; most will charge tourists honestly, but check prices before ordering to make sure. Eating habits run the gamut, but most foods are eaten by '''fork and spoon''': push and cut with the fork in the left hand, and eat with the spoon in the right. As eating is a favourite 'pastime' of Malaysians, the majority are adept at using chopsticks, regardless of background. Noodles and Chinese dishes typically come with these, while Malay and Indian food is traditionally eaten by hand, though a fork and spoon are often used to eat Malay and Indian food in restaurants and can be requested if not provided. If eating by hand, '''always use only your right hand''' to handle the food, as Malays and Indians traditionally use their left hand to handle dirty things. When eating with chopsticks at Chinese restaurants, take note of the usual etiquette and most importantly, ''do not'' stick your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice. This is reminiscent of incense sticks burning at the temple and has connotations of wishing death on those around you. If eating in a group, serving dishes are always shared, but you'll get your own bowl of rice and soup. === Where to eat === [[File:Beaufort Sabah KedaiKopi-01.jpg|thumb|The interior of a kedai kopi near the railway station in [[Beaufort (Sabah)|Beaufort, Sabah]]]] The cheapest places to eat are '''hawker stalls''' and '''coffeeshops''', known as ''kedai kopi'' in Malay or ''kopitiam'' in Hokkien. These shops sell, besides coffee, many other types of food and drinks. Particularly popular and tasty are '''''mamak''''' stalls, run by Indian Muslims and serving up localized Indian fare like ''roti canai''. Most hawker stalls stay open till late and some even operate on shifts so you can find the same stall offering different food at different points throughout the day. You can also do take away from any stall: just ask for ''bungkus'' (Malay) or ''ta pao'' (Cantonese). A hawker meal will rarely cost you over RM5. Hygiene standards in Malaysia are generally good by Southeast Asian standards, and much better than in the Indian subcontinent. Just be observant, and generally speaking, if a stall is patronised by locals, it should be safe to eat there. One step up on the scale is the '''''kedai makanan''''' or the more Western-style '''''restoran'''''. A type to look out for is the '''''nasi kandar''''' restaurant, which originated in [[Penang]] but now can be found in virtually every Malaysian city, with a wide variety of Indian-style curries and toppings to ladle on top of your rice. The Malay answer to nasi kandar is known as '''''nasi campur''''', of which a subtype is '''''nasi padang''''', originating among the Minangkabau people from [[Padang]] in what is today [[Indonesia]]. The Chinese equivalent is known as '''economy rice''' or '''mixed rice''', or by its Cantonese name '''''chap fan''''' (雜飯). However, unlike nasi kandar or nasi campur, Chinese-style economy rice is typically ''not'' halal. '''Seafood restaurants''' (''makanan laut'') are comparatively pricey but still an excellent value by most standards; do check prices before ordering though. Local prawns are gigantic, Chinese-style steamed fish is a treat and crab served with sticky chilli sauce is particularly popular. Last but not least, some less adventurous options. '''Food courts''' in shopping malls are a good way to sample local delicacies in air-conditioned comfort, paying only a small premium over hawker prices. And yes, you can also find McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut and the usual suspects plus imitators throughout Malaysia. === Dietary restrictions === [[File:Su Xin Vegetarian Restaurant.jpg|thumb|A vegetarian restaurant in [[Johor Bahru]], [[Johor]].]] Being a Muslim-majority country, finding '''halal''' food in Malaysia is easy, but most Chinese stalls and restaurants, as well as those serving some indigenous ethnic groups of East Malaysia such as the Iban and Kadazan, are ''not'' halal. Ask if in doubt. Meals at Malay restaurants and Western fast food restaurants like McDonald's, Kentucky Fried Chicken and Pizza Hut are halal. Restaurants at major hotels are not certified 'Halal' as they serve alcohol as well, but with the exception of Chinese restaurants, they generally don't serve pork. Local Muslims will eat at Western, Chinese and Indian eateries if there is a halal sign on the walls. Most of the restaurants tend to display their halal certification or halal sign on their places. Halal certification is awarded and enforced by a government agency, usually JAKIM. There are ''no'' '''kosher''' establishments in Malaysia, so kosher-observant Jewish visitors will have to bring their own food with them and supplement it with fresh fruit. Kosher grocery stores and restaurants can be found in neighbouring [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], the [[Philippines]] and [[Vietnam]], so you might want to stop in one of those countries to stock up before entering Malaysia. '''Vegetarianism''' is well-understood by the Chinese and Indian communities (not so by the Muslim Malays and other indigenous minorities) and many restaurants or hawker stalls will be able to come up with something on request (DO state "no meat, no fish, no seafood – ASK for vegetables and/or eggs ONLY"), but don't rely entirely on menu descriptions: innocuous-seeming dishes like "fried vegetables" etc. will often contain shrimp paste (''belacan'', commonly used in Malay and spicy Chinese dishes), fish sauce, etc. or even pork bits or lard in non-halal Chinese restaurants, so if in doubt, ask. Indian restaurants usually have very good vegetarian selections – the ''roti'' (Indian flat bread – any kind; including roti canai, roti naan, capati, tosai) are good choices, and DO insist on being given ''dhal'' (lentil-based curry dip) lest you'll be given a fish curry dip. Purely vegetarian Chinese Buddhist restaurants (often serving remarkable "mock meat" products made from tofu, gluten etc.) are quite easy to find in big urban areas with a large ethnic Chinese population. Getting vegetarian food in rural areas, especially those near fishing villages or in Muslim/Malay-dominated regions, may be more difficult, but learning some basic Malay vocabulary will go a long way to help you get your message across – see the [[Malay phrasebook#Eating|Malay phrasebook]]. Upmarket Western restaurants, such as those serving Italian cuisine, will normally have some good vegetarian options. Be careful about Chinese bakery items too, as many seemingly vegetarian items use pork lard to make the pastry. '''Veganism''' is rarely understood in this part of the world and is largely mistaken as a synonym for vegetarianism. The safest bet for a vegan is to patronize a Chinese Buddhist vegetarian restaurant, since Chinese cuisine traditionally does not use dairy products. However, check to ensure that your dish does not contain eggs. And if you're still feeling uneasy or unsure, do not hesitate to ask. == Drink == [[File:Cheng Ho Tea House.JPG|thumb|A tea house in [[Melaka]].]] Malaysians like both coffee (''kopi'') and tea (''teh''), especially the national drink ''teh tarik'' ("pulled tea"), made by the ''Mamak'' (Indian Muslim) community, and named after the theatrical 'pulling' motion used to pour it. By default, both will be served hot, sweet and with a dose of condensed milk; request ''teh o'' to skip the milk, ''teh ais'' for iced milky tea, or ''teh o ais'' for iced milkless tea. Drinking with no sugar at all is considered odd, but asking for ''kurang manis'' (less sugar) will ease the pain. However, if you really want no sugar at all, you can try asking for "teh kosong." Malaysia produces its own tea, but little of it is exported except to neighbouring Singapore due to high domestic demand, so be sure to try some locally-grown tea when you are here. BOH, with its plantations in [[Cameron Highlands]], is Malaysia's largest tea brand. Another peculiar local favourite is the kopi tongkat ali ginseng, a mixture of coffee, a local aphrodisiacal root, and ginseng served with condensed milk that's touted as an alternative to viagra and red bull combined and is usually advertised with a picture of a bed broken in half. Other popular nonalcoholic options include the chocolate drink Milo and lime juice (''limau''). Freshly made fruit juices are also widely available, as well as a wide range of canned drinks (some familiar to many foreigners, some less so). There is also a local drink comprised of white soya milk and black grass jelly (''cincau'') called ''soya cincau''. It can be ordered at most hawker centres and local roadside cafes (''kedai kopi/kopitiam''). === Alcohol === [[Image:Gawai.JPG|thumb|Tuak is widely consumed during Gawai Dayak festival and Christmas Day.]] Although alcohol consumption is illegal for Muslims in Malaysia, licensed venues are permitted to sell alcohol to non-Muslims. With the exception of tax-free islands ([[Labuan]], [[Langkawi]], [[Tioman]]) and duty free shops (for example in [[Johor Bahru]]), prices are comparatively high, with a can of beer costing RM7.50 or more even in supermarkets or 7-Eleven stores. However, in East Malaysia, smuggled liquors are widely available. The legal drinking age in Malaysia is 21. In East Malaysia, particularly [[Sarawak]], ''tuak'' is a common affair for any celebration or festivals such as Gawai Dayak and Christmas Day. ''Tuak'' is made from fermented rice to which sugar, honey or other various condiments are sometimes added. It is normally served lukewarm without ice. Visitors can choose from 'strong' flavour of tuak (which is normally fermented for years), or 'mild' flavour (which is sometimes prepared only a week or even a day before). In [[Sabah]], cheap liquors are very widely available at most supermarkets and mini markets in the state. Other alcoholic drinks such as beer and whisky are also widely available. On the other hand, ''tuak'' in [[Kelantan]] also can be considered as a liquor since that it contains a trace amount of fermented ''nipah'' or sap juice. The alcohol content in Kelantan ''tuak'' can easily reach 50% after 3 days from the time it was extracted. [[File:Tapai peuyeum Pasar Baru.JPG|thumb|Cassava tapai is shown in plastic bags in the foreground]] ''Tapai'' consists of cassava (less often, rice) that is fermented and eaten as a food (though the liquid in the bottom can also be drunk). As it is commonly eaten during Hari Raya Puasa, the major Muslim holiday celebrating the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, it is interesting that Islamic legal authorities associated with the Islamist opposition Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) have given Muslims a special dispensation from laws against consuming alcohol, in the case of tapai. ===Water safety=== There are differences of opinion on the safety of Malaysian tap water. See [[#Stay healthy]]. == Sleep == Malaysia has ample affordable accommodations in all of its cities and towns, with full range from budget until luxury ones. Service charges and taxes are not yet part of the advertised price so be sure to add 16% to the listed price. Hotels and hostels are required to charge a '''tourism tax''' on international visitors: RM10 per room per night, which may not be included in the advertised rates. ===Budget=== Budget hotels and youth [[hostels]] are available in most cities and around most tourist destinations. As with most budget accommodations, some are more reliable than others. Be cautious when selecting budget accommodation to avoid places that house illegal vice activities. Larger cities will have YMCAs that are safe bets. Another noticeable budget hotel chain is [http://www.tunehotels.com Tune Hotels,] an affiliate of the budget airline, Air Asia. They are expanding and have hotels at numerous locations throughout the country ===Mid-range=== Mid-range hotels are readily available just about anywhere. Prices of 3–4 star hotels are upwards from RM100 and are generally reliable in terms of quality. ===Splurge=== Malaysia is home to some of the most affordable 5-star hotels, service apartments, and resorts in the world. They are found in larger cities like Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching and also in some coastal towns and areas. Also, almost all islands have upscale resorts and spas for the wealthy traveller. == Learn == Malaysia's universities are generally well-regarded and draw exchange students from near and far. Among Malaysia's universities, the undisputed most prestigious one is the '''[https://www.um.edu.my University of Malaya]''' (UM), located in Kuala Lumpur. In addition, several foreign universities have established campuses in Malaysia. == Work == Obtaining a working visa takes some effort. The easiest way to work in Malaysia is probably to work for an overseas company and get posted to Malaysia. The [https://www.imi.gov.my/ Malaysian Immigration Department website] has basic advice. In order to obtain a work permit, you need to have an offer from your future employer who will have to do the paperwork for you. It's very expensive and comes with many restrictions if a company wants to hire a foreigner and as such next to impossible. As stated above, a feasible way is to get transferred. Finding a job is otherwise unlikely unless you are married to a local and even then it remains difficult. Working days in [[Kelantan]], [[Terengganu]] and [[Kedah]] are from Sunday to Thursday, with Fridays and Saturdays being weekend holidays, similar to most Middle Eastern countries in alignment with Friday prayers of Muslims. The other states observe the normal weekend in the rest of the world. [[Johor]] adopts the Friday-Saturday weekend, though businesses may still stick to the normal week cycle to accommodate Singaporean practices. == Stay safe == {{infobox|Emergency numbers|Central emergency number '''999'''}} Though the crime rate is higher than in neighbouring Singapore, Malaysia is generally a safe country for visitors. Crimes towards tourists are usually restricted to bag-snatching, pickpocketing and petty theft. It is important to keep a close eye on valuable items. Theft is more common in crowded places, such as markets and on public transport. Generally, if you avoid deserted areas, get back to your hotel before midnight and use your common sense, you're unlikely to be assaulted. Homosexuality is a crime and gay bars may be raided by police; gay and lesbian tourists should be discreet and avoid any public displays of affection. ===Crime=== {{Cautionbox|Malaysia treats '''drug offences''' severely. With limited exceptions, the '''death penalty''' is possible for those convicted of trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting more than 15 g of heroin, 30 g of morphine, 30 g of cocaine, 500 g of cannabis, 200 g of cannabis resin and 1.2 kg of opium, and possession of these quantities is all that is needed for you to be convicted. If the death penalty is not imposed, lengthy imprisonment and mandatory whipping is still expected. Even if a person suspected of drug trafficking is acquitted, Malaysian authorities can still detain that person without any charges for 2 years. Unauthorised consumption can result in up to 10 years' jail, or a heavy fine, or both. You can be charged for unauthorised consumption as long as traces of illicit drugs are found in your system, even if you can prove that they were consumed outside the country and you can be charged for trafficking as long as drugs are found in bags that are in your possession or in your room, even if they aren't yours and regardless of whether you're aware of them - therefore be vigilant of your possessions.|lastedit=permanent}} There have been some reports of [[pickpockets]] and snatch-and-run thieves in some of the major cities like [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Petaling Jaya]] and [[Johor Bahru]]. As a general precaution, never carry your bags on the side facing the road and always walk facing the oncoming traffic. Additionally, walk a few feet deeper away from the roads. Women travellers should take extra precautions at night. Johor Bahru is known for having a relatively higher crime rate compared to the rest of Malaysia, and armed robberies and snatch thefts could happen at night in run-down areas of the city. Travel documents and valuables are best deposited in a hotel safe. In Malaysia, some crimes are punished with caning, known locally as whipping. Being convicted of rape, vandalism, illegal entry, bribery, overstaying your visa, and certain other crimes could get you caned. '''This is no slap on the wrist!''' Strokes from the thick rattan cane are ''very painful'', will take some time to heal and probably leave you with a permanent scar. Credit card fraud is a growing problem in this country, especially if you order in an on-line store during your stay. Use credit cards only in reputable shops. Look for online reviews but recognise that even these can be astroturfed to provide a higher average review than the company deserves. ===Corruption=== While not as bad as the likes of Thailand, Vietnam or Indonesia, corruption remains a significant issue in Malaysia. Traffic police have been known to pull over motorists to demand bribes of RM100-200; this tends to happen somewhat more often to those driving cars with Singapore licence plates. Nevertheless, there have been some crackdowns on this, and bribery is punishable by up to 20 years in jail. Anyone who tries to bribe public officials may be arrested on the spot and placed in a lock-up overnight to be charged for the offence in the morning. If this happens on a Friday or on eve of public holidays, you will find yourself spending a few nights in the lock-up as the courts are only open Monday to Friday. Do not let this dissuade you from requesting help — generally Malaysian police are helpful to tourists. Customs and immigration officers are comparatively cleaner than other Southeast Asian countries, though there have been isolated cases where tourists are demanded bribes from immigration officials. Do check your passport before driving off when entering by land from the Singapore border though, as immigration officers have been known to "forget" to stamp people in, and you will be subject to fines of several thousand ringgit for illegal entry when you try to leave Malaysia if your passport was not stamped on entry. * {{listing | name=Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) | alt=Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia(SPRM) | url=https://www.sprm.gov.my/ | email=info@sprm.gov.my | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1800-88-6000 | fax=+603-8870-0934 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6741935 | lastedit=2025-03-11 | content=The main anti-corruption agency for Malaysia. A list of MACC branches can be found [https://www.sprm.gov.my/index.php?id=21&page_id=75&articleid=430 here]. }} ===Traffic safety=== When on foot, be careful when crossing the street. Vehicles will often ignore pedestrian (zebra) crossings. In addition, reports of road rage during accidents are still common, so if you are involved in an accident be very careful when negotiating or dial 999 for help. ===Other=== Public demonstrations are uncommon in Malaysia due to police crackdowns. Should one occur it may be dealt with in a heavy-handed manner, so '''avoid them at all costs'''. It is generally not allowed for non-Muslims or non-Sunnis to proselytize. In particular, attempting to persuade Muslims to convert out of their religion is illegal, and if you are caught doing this, you will be expelled from the country or even face criminal responsibilities. ===Natural disasters=== Peninsular Malaysia is largely free from [[earthquakes]] as there are no nearby faultlines, though tremors can occasionally be felt in the upper storeys of tall buildings when a major quake occurs in neighbouring Indonesia. East Malaysia, on the other hand, especially the area around Mount Kinabalu, does experience occasional earthquakes (such as the fatal one occurring in 2015). [[Cyclones|Typhoons]] are also exceedingly rare, though one hit the southern part of [[Johor]] in 2001. However, the Nov-Jan monsoon season often results in flooding due to torrential rains, and landslides are known to occur, most notably on the East Coast. [[Tsunamis]] are a rare occurrence, though Penang and a few islands on the north of the West Coast were hit by the infamous tsunami in 2004. == Stay healthy == There are differences of opinion about whether and to what degree '''[[tap water]]''' is safe to drink. It is treated and monitored, but the condition of the pipes is not always reliable. Therefore, you may want to boil or filter it first just to be on the safe side, as most locals do. You can also buy bottled water, which is very inexpensive. Ice in drinks might be made from tap water, but nowadays, most restaurants and even roadside stalls use the cylindrical variety with a hollow tube down the middle that are mass-produced at ice factories and are safer to consume. Heat exhaustion is rare, but do consume lots of fluids, use a hat and sunscreen and shower often! Peninsular Malaysia is largely [[malaria]]-free, but there is a significant risk in Borneo especially in inland and rural areas. [[Dengue fever]] occurs throughout Malaysia in both urban and rural areas, and can be avoided only by preventing [[mosquito]] bites. The mosquito that transmits dengue feeds throughout the daytime, and is most active at dawn and dusk. If you experience a sudden fever with aches and lethargy, seek medical attention immediately. Aspirin and ibuprofen should not be used until dengue fever has been ruled out. Mosquito repellents (''ubat nyamuk'') are widely available. Be careful with mosquito coils, which can easily start fires: set them on a plate or other non-flammable surface and extinguish them before going to sleep. Haze from burning vegetation in neighbouring Indonesia may come and go without warning from the months of May to August so travellers with respiratory ailments should come prepared. Most public washrooms charge a small fee (generally between RM0.20-RM2.00, usually depending on the standard of the facilities), so keep some loose change to hand. If the condition of the sitting toilets is questionable, use the squatting toilets instead - both are usually available, and some believe that the latter are more hygienic and (if you can get used to them) are just as easy to use as sitting toilets. ===Healthcare=== [[File:Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital.JPG|thumb|Public hospital in [[Kuantan]], [[Pahang]]]] The standard of healthcare in Malaysia is generally high, and Malaysia is rapidly emerging as a popular destination for medical tourism, with treatment costs in general far cheaper than in neighbouring Singapore and Western countries. Almost all Malaysian doctors are able to speak English fluently, while most other medical staff are able to converse in at least basic English. Malaysia has a public and private health care system. Health services are adequate in large cities, with English-speaking doctors. Some staff have been trained abroad. In the private sector in particular, the medical staff is often made up of well-trained professionals. Outside urban areas, access to health services and the quality of care vary. Government healthcare facilities are cheap but good, though they tend to be understaffed and consequently, waiting times are long. Due to the shorter waiting times and sometimes hotel-like levels of comfort, most expatriates and visitors prefer to seek out private medical care. Dental services are readily available and prices are often lower than in western countries. However, root canal treatment is considerably more expensive than in western countries, as it is only performed by dental surgeons and not by ordinary dentists. Mental health services are available at least in the capital. In the rest of the country, they may not be available very much. Pharmacies can be found in larger shopping centres and painkillers are available in almost every shop. Prescription medicines may not be available from pharmacies at any time, but only when a pharmacist is present. He or she may be there for part of the day, usually on weekdays. When visiting a doctor, medicines are often available directly from the doctor's surgery or from the hospital pharmacy. When travelling to Malaysia, you should take out comprehensive travel insurance. Doctors and hospitals usually require payment in advance, especially for foreigners. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Keep all receipts and certificates you receive. You can apply for reimbursement afterwards from your insurance company. Services in the private sector are more expensive than in the public sector. You should check the details on the spot. Be vigilant when using private medical services. Doctors may prescribe expensive treatments, tests and medicines that are unnecessary. This is especially true for tourists. Malaysia's largest private healthcare groups are '''[https://www.parkwaypantai.com Parkway Pantai]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', which operates the well-known Gleaneagles and Pantai hospital chains, and '''[http://www.kpjhealth.com.my KPJ Healthcare]'''. Private medical costs can be high and having [[travel insurance]] is a very good idea. Public hospitals and most private hospitals offer 24-hour on-call medical services. In some Malaysian tourist resorts, you can ask for a doctor at the hotel reception. Pressure chamber treatment is available in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kuantan, Lumut, Ipoh, Sabah and Labuan. There is limited availability of rental equipment at hospitals. In most cases, assistive devices have to be purchased. ===Food=== While in general Malaysian food is not unhealthy, the fact that eateries and cafés add unnecessary amounts of sugar to drinks and snacks can be a problem. Also, the sheer amount of these places will always give you an opportunity to have an unhealthy snack or drink, no matter where you are. Be aware, and for example try to have your drinks without sugar, especially fruit shakes, which should come sweet naturally. == Respect == {{infobox|What's in a name?|*Malaysian '''Malay''' names are usually given name + ''bin'' or ''binti'' (son/daughter) + father's name. ''Mohammed bin Abdullah'' would usually be called Mohammed by his friends, and Mr. Mohammed for business. Sometimes, the person's given name appears after the Mohammed or Abdul (example: ''Mohammed Faizal bin Abdul Nasser'') so, in such a case, he would usually be addressed as Mr. Faizal.<br /> *'''Chinese''' place their family name first, so ''Tan Ah Heng'' is Mr Tan for business and Ah Heng to his friends. Many have Western names, so he may also be known as ''John Tan''.<br> *'''Indian''' names are complex, but the south Indian (Tamil) names usually found in Malaysia have two patterns: either given name + ''a/l'' or ''a/p'' (''anak lelaki'' (son of)/''anak perempuan'' (daughter of)) + father's name, or father's initial + given name. Given names are often long and may be abbreviated, so ''Thirumurugan a/l Govindasamy'' may just be addressed as Thiru by his friends and Mr Thiru for business.<br /> *'''Other ethnic minorities''', such as the Iban and Kadazan have their own naming conventions. The foolproof method, therefore, is to ''ask'' how the person would like to be addressed.}} When entering a home or a place of worship, always take off your shoes (this is often required at hostels too). Also, never eat with your left hand or give a gift with your left hand, and never point with your forefinger (you may use a closed fist with the thumb instead). Do not point with your feet or touch a person's head either. Swastikas are commonly seen in Hindu and Buddhist temples, and are regarded as a religious symbol by these communities. They emphatically do '''not''' represent Nazism or anti-Semitism. ===Politics=== As in many countries, it is best not to criticise the government or the Malaysian royal families as a visitor. You may hear Malaysians criticise their own government, but you do not need to take sides; just listen and feel free to talk about your feelings about your own government. The '''bumiputera''' policy (laws granting ethnic Malays special rights not granted to the other races) is a very polarising and sensitive issue, and best avoided as a conversation topic with Malays. Another sensitive issue to be aware of is Israel: Malaysia is one of several countries that do not recognize Israel, and Malaysian Muslims are ardent in their support for Palestine. In addition, many Malaysians associate Jews in general with Israel or otherwise have prejudices against Jews; however, these feelings do not necessarily extend to individual Jewish people, and violence against Jewish visitors is unlikely. ===Dress=== It is advisable to dress respectfully, particularly in rural areas (wearing trousers or a long skirt, not shorts and covering your shoulders is recommended but not essential). In more cosmopolitan cities such as Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Malacca, Ipoh and Johor Bahru, as well as East Malaysian states (Sabah and Sarawak) attitudes are more liberal. Women are not legally required to wear the hijab, known locally as the ''tudung'', except when entering mosques, where it is required for both Muslims and non-Muslims. ===Sexuality=== As a predominantly Muslim country, Malaysia tends to be conservative about sexuality. Public showing of affection in the more diverse, larger cities is tolerated but might invite unnecessary attention from the public. In more rural areas and in very conservative states like [[Kelantan]] and [[Terengganu]] on the East Coast of the Peninsula it is frowned upon and is best avoided. '''Don't kiss your partner in public'''; you'll inflame local sensibilities. Big cities like Kuala Lumpur have a fairly active gay scene and gay bashing is rarely heard of. However, same-sex relationships are a taboo subject and "carnal intercourse against the order of nature" is punished by up to 20 years jail and whipping (men only) under colonial era laws not usually enforced against consenting adult heterosexuals. Different states may also impose '''consecutive''' sharia law punishments of up to 3 years and six lashes against Muslims of all genders. ==Cope== ===Electricity=== Malaysian sockets are designed for the 3-pin rectangular-pronged British plug. Electricity is delivered at 240 V, 50 Hz. ===Newspapers=== Malaysia's main Malay newspapers are ''[http://www.bharian.com.my Berita Harian]'' and ''[http://www.utusan.com.my Utusan Malaysia]''. There are also numerous Chinese newspapers, the most popular ones being the ''[http://www.chinapress.com.my China Press]'' (中國報), ''[http://www.enanyang.my Nanyang Siang Pau]'' (南洋商報) and ''[http://www.sinchew.com.my Sin Chew Daily]'' (星洲日報), as well as several Tamil newspapers. Malaysia's English-language paper of record is the '''''[https://www.nst.com.my New Straits Times]''''', a splinter from the Singaporean Straits Times, which is available at most hotels and newsstands. '''''[https://www.thestar.com.my The Star]''''' and '''''[https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/ Free Malaysia Today]''''', an English-Malay bilingual online newspaper, are also available. ==Connect== === Internet === Broadband Internet is available for free in most accommodations and some restaurants, especially fast-food outlets and shopping malls, including Starbucks and Coffeebean, some McDonald's and Subway. However, not every restaurant has WiFi, especially smaller ones. Southasian restaurants have WiFi more often. Cybercafés are a thing of the past, since nowadays most people have mobile data. === Mobile and data === Malaysia was one of the first countries in the world to offer 4G connectivity. There are a lot of providers, which usually offer good coverage. The easiest SIM to get is U-mobile, from RM10, with ok-ish coverage and a 30-day package of "unlimited" or 40GB internet for RM35 or RM25 per month respectively (2025). SIMs are available in every 7-11 and in some other places. There are also other SIM cards (RM10) available in some cheaper malls and Pakistani places which have 50GB packages for RM18. If you travel to Singapore or other neighboring countries, you can buy a 14-day "unlimited" package for RM35 (Feb 2024), which works in all of them including Malaysia. Other providers have better coverage but don't offer worthwhile roaming options. === Telephone numbers === The country code for Malaysia is +60. [[File:Sandakan Sabah Public-Phone-Booths-01.jpg|thumb|Phone booths in Sabah]] [[Telephone service|To call]] a Malaysian number from abroad * '''from overseas except Singapore''' dial the international access code, the country code for Malaysia, the area or mobile operator code without the "0", and then the phone number (for 123-4567 in Kuala Lumpur, in Wikivoyage written as +60 3 123-4567, dial {{nowrap|+60 3 123 45467);}} * '''from Singapore''', dial 02, the area or mobile operator code with the "0", and then the phone number {{nowrap|(02 03 123 45467).}} To domestically call a Malaysian number, * from a mobile phone or a landline phone '''outside the local area''', dial the area or mobile operator code, including the leading "0", followed by the phone number (03 123 4567), * from '''within the local area''' just dial the phone number without any code; '''from mobile phones''', you can always include the area or operator code, although it is unnecessary between phones with the same operator (where you are is immaterial with mobile phones). '''To call a foreign number''' not in Singapore from Malaysia, use the international dialling prefix '''00''' (on mobile phones: "+"). For Singapore, instead use the pseudo area code 02 and leave out the international prefix and country code. On the Maxis network, take advantage of 50% IDD rates on international calls via IDD132. This doesn't require any registration: just dial "132" prior to the "00" (don't use "+"). Malaysia also has four '''mobile telephone''' service providers, [http://www.maxis.com.my Maxis], [http://www.digi.com.my DiGi], [http://www.celcom.com.my Celcom], and [http://www.u.com.my U Mobile] which utilise codes '''012''', '''013''', '''014''', '''016''', '''017''', '''018''', '''019''', used like area codes. Network connection in Malaysia is excellent. Mobile number portability has been implemented, meaning a code like 012 that traditionally belonged to Maxis, can now be a DiGi subscriber. Mobile networks utilize the GSM 900 and 1800 systems. 3G (WCDMA), EDGE and HSPDA networks are available in larger towns. International roaming onto these networks is possible if your operator allows it. '''Prepaid SIM cards''' for sale at airports are pretty affordable; a one-week SIM card with a good amount of data might cost about RM20-30 (2019). See also [[#SIM cards|SIM cards]] above. Malaysian '''landline telephone numbers''' have either seven or eight digits. The country is divided into areas which have been assigned two- or three-digit area codes, which have to be dialled when calling from outside the area (or from a mobile phone). The area codes are: * '''03''' — Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor (all are Klang Valley), Pahang (Genting Highlands only) * '''04''' — Kedah, Penang, Perlis * '''05''' — Perak, Pahang (Cameron Highlands only) * '''06''' — Malacca, Johor (Muar district only), Negeri Sembilan * '''07''' — Johor (all districts except for Muar) * '''082''' — Sarawak (Kuching and Samarahan districts) * '''083''' — Sarawak (Sri Aman and Betong districts) * '''084''' — Sarawak (Sarikei, Sibu and west Kapit districts) * '''085''' — Sarawak (Miri and Limbang districts) * '''086''' — Sarawak (Bintulu districts and Belaga) * '''087''' — Sabah (Interior Division), Labuan * '''088''' — Sabah (West Coast and Kudat Division) * '''089''' — Sabah (Sandakan and Tawau Division) * '''09''' — Kelantan, Pahang (all districts except Genting Highlands), Terengganu === Postal services === [[File:Pos Malaysia Arau Post Office.jpg|thumb|Post office in [[Arau]], [[Perlis]]]] Postage stamps for postcards internationally is just 0,9 RM (as of February 2024) Many international courier services, such as Fedex, DHL and UPS, are available in towns and cities, but the main postal service provider is [http://www.pos.com.my Pos Malaysia] which reliably provides postal services to most countries in the world. Postage rates in Malaysia are cheap. Much cheaper than Thailand, Singapore or Vietnam, and surface post is available as well. The mail is reliable and trustworthy. When posting a parcel, do not seal the box. This is to allow for inspection in case illegal items are posted this way (ask for help at the post office if needed). A local alternative to the international courier companies mentioned above is the Pos Laju, which provides just as reliable a service at a fraction of the cost! Non-urgent letters and postcards can be dropped in postboxes inside post offices or red postboxes found outside post offices and along main roads. If there are two slots in a postbox use the one that says "lain lain" for international post. Post offices are open M–Sa 8AM–5PM except public holidays, although a few in Klang Valley stay open until 10PM. In the states of Kedah, Kelantan, Johor and Terengganu they are closed on Fridays and public holidays. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|3|108|zoom=6}} mnls4xh2p3542jdwlnqoxdx074clpc7 5091279 5091278 2025-07-11T09:56:49Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091279 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner | Cameron_Highlands_Tea_Plantation_banner.jpg}} '''Malaysia''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]], on the Malay Peninsula, as well as on northern [[Borneo]]. The country is one of Asia's tiger economies, having seen great economic and human development during the last several decades. While the capital Kuala Lumpur is a cosmopolitan city, deep jungles cover vast swaths of the land, and the offshore islands are home to pristine beaches and some of the world's best scuba diving sites. Malaysia is also a foodie's paradise, with its diverse ethnic groups contributing to an incredibly rich culinary heritage. == Regions == Malaysia is divided into two main geographical regions, commonly known as Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. See [[Malaysia#Geography|Geography]] for more information. === Peninsular Malaysia === {{Mapframe|3.95|108.85|width=500|height=200|zoom=5|staticmap=Malaysia regions map.png|name=Map of Peninsular and East Malaysia}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q213467,Q188947,Q188096,Q188953,Q189710,Q1865,Q182378,Q213893,Q185221|fill=#69999f|title=[[West Coast (Malaysia)|West Coast]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q185944,Q189701,Q191346|fill=#71b37b|title=[[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q183032|fill=#d09440|title=[[Johor|South]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q179029,Q214504|fill=#867ea9|title=[[Sabah]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q170462|fill=#4f93c0|title=[[Sarawak]]}} {{Regionlist | region1name=[[West Coast (Malaysia)|West Coast]] | region1color=#69999f | region1items=[[Perlis]], [[Kedah]], [[Penang]], [[Perak]], [[Selangor]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Putrajaya]], [[Negeri Sembilan]], [[Malacca (state)|Malacca]] | region1description=The more developed region, offering the modern capital, [[Kuala Lumpur]], UNESCO World Heritage cities with colonial flair and the [[Langkawi]] archipelago. Perlis, Kedah and Perak are the gateways to [[Thailand]] overland. | region2name=[[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] | region2color=#71b37b | region2items=[[Kelantan]], [[Pahang]], [[Terengganu]] | region2description=The more traditional Muslim region, home to ''[[Taman Negara]]'' (National Park), numerous unspoilt islands and the [[Jungle Railway]], which winds through the rural hinterlands. Kelantan is the gateway to [[Thailand]] overland. | region3name=[[Johor]] | region3color=#d09440 | region3items= | region3description=Comprising just one state, two coastlines, endless palm oil plantations and the gateway to [[Singapore]] via a causeway or bridge. }} ===East Malaysia=== {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Sabah]] and [[Labuan]] | region1color=#867ea9 | region1items= | region1description=Superb scuba diving in [[Sipadan]] island plus muck diving at [[Mabul]], nature reserves, the federal enclave of [[Labuan]] and the mighty [[Mount Kinabalu]]. | region2name=[[Sarawak]] | region2color=#4f93c0 | region2items= | region2description=The southern state of East Malaysia (Borneo). Home to traditional longhouses, lush jungles and national parks in contrast to the state capital, [[Kuching]]. It is the gateway to [[Brunei]] and [[Indonesia]] overland. }} == Cities == [[File:PetronasKLCC.jpg|thumb|The iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur]] <!-- Only cities of primary importance to tourists here, maximum 9 --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuala Lumpur]]|wikidata=Q1865}} — the multi-cultural national capital, home of the Petronas Twin Towers * {{marker|type=city|name=[[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]]|wikidata=Q61092}} — the capital of [[Penang]] and hub of Malaysia's second largest metropolitan area, famed for its colonial-era architecture, multi-cultural populace, food and arts scene * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Malacca]]|wikidata=Q61089}} — the historical city of Malaysia with colonial-style architecture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ipoh]]|wikidata=Q271619}} — the capital of [[Perak]], with a historic colonial old town and tin mining area * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Johor Bahru]]|wikidata=Q231318}} — capital of [[Johor]] and Malaysia's third largest city, at the border with Singapore * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuantan]]|wikidata=Q817578}} — capital of [[Pahang]] and largest city on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kota Kinabalu]]|wikidata=Q137271}} — close to tropical islands, lush rain forest and Mount Kinabalu * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuching]]|wikidata=Q220445}} — capital of [[Sarawak]], and largest city in East Malaysia * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Miri]]|wikidata=Q986803}} — resort city of Sarawak near the border with Brunei and gateway to [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]], [[Gunung Mulu National Park]] <!-- Only cities of primary importance to tourists here, maximum 9 --> ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cameron Highlands]]|wikidata=Q1028741}} — famous for its tea plantations * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Perhentian Islands]]|wikidata=Q2070782}} (''Pulau Perhentian'') — glittering jewels off the East Coast still undiscovered by mass tourism * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Taman Negara]]|wikidata=Q728141}} — a large area of rainforest national park spanning [[Kelantan]], [[Pahang]] and [[Terengganu]] * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kinabalu National Park]]|wikidata=Q60967}} — home of Mount Kinabalu * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Langkawi]]|wikidata=Q273303}} — an archipelago of 99 islands known for its beaches, rainforest, mountains, mangrove estuaries and unique nature. It's also a duty-free island * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sipadan]]|wikidata=Q1412482}} (''Pulau Sipadan'') — one of the best dive spots in the world * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Redang]]|wikidata=Q1897123}} (''Pulau Redang'') — popular island destination for scuba divers * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Tioman]]|wikidata=Q771765}} (''Pulau Tioman'') — once nominated one of the most beautiful islands in the world * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Fraser's Hill]]|wikidata=Q3086678}} — a time warp to the colonial era == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMalaysia.png}} Malaysia is a mix of the modern world and a developing nation. With its investment in high technology industries and moderate oil wealth, it has become a rich nation in Southeast Asia. Malaysia, for most visitors, presents a happy mix: there is high-tech infrastructure and things generally work well and more or less on schedule, but prices remain more reasonable than, say, [[Singapore]]. The demographics between the rich and poor can also be quite apparent: for example, a high rise luxury condominium building built right across the street from old, rundown shop lots or flats. However, you will not find extreme rural poverty or gigantic urban slums as in most other countries of Southeast Asia. In terms of attractions, peninsular (West) Malaysia contains islands with gorgeous beaches and a fraction of visitors found in [[Thailand]]'s most popular beaches, mountain retreats surrounded by tea plantations, interesting historical cities, world-famous food, and the highly modern, multi-cultural capital of [[Kuala Lumpur]]. East Malaysia contains lush jungles with diverse native population and wildlife, as well as stunning natural attractions such as giant caves, beautiful mountains and fantastic diving sites. Notably, however, Malaysia is not as popular among backpackers as other Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand, [[Cambodia]] and [[Vietnam]], partly due to the relatively higher costs, and partly due to the more religious and conservative, albeit generally tolerant, culture. It also lacks the ancient Hindu and/or Buddhist temples and temple complexes of its neighbours, though it does have some large ones built since the 19th century. === History === [[File:Melaka-Dutch-Square-2164.jpg|thumb|The Dutch Square in Malacca]] Before the rise of the European colonial powers, the Malay Peninsula and the [[Malay Archipelago|Malay archipelago]] were home to empires such as the Srivijaya (whose capital was near modern [[Palembang]], [[Sumatra]], but which included the entire Malay Peninsula and lands further north at its greatest extent), the Majapahit (centred in [[Java]], now part of Indonesia, but believed by most scholars to have included the entire Malay Peninsula and most of coastal Borneo among its vassal states) and the [[Malacca]] Sultanate. The Srivijaya and Majapahit empires saw the spread of Hinduism to the region, and to this day, despite the fact that Malays are Muslims, many Hindu legends and traditions survive in traditional Malay culture. Mass conversion to Islam only occurred after the arrival of Arab traders during the Malacca Sultanate. [[File:Fort Cornwallis Eck.JPG|thumb|Fort Cornwallis in [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], [[Penang]] marked the site where the British colonisation of Malaya began in 1786.]] During the 16th century the Portuguese established the first European colony in Southeast Asia by defeating the Malacca Sultanate. The Portuguese were religiously intolerant and cruel, so the Sultan of Johor assisted the Dutch in defeating them, and the Netherlands took control of the city. The British also established their first colony on the Malay peninsula in [[Penang]] when it was ceded by the Sultan of Kedah in 1786. Finally, the area was divided into Dutch and British spheres of influence with the signing of the Anglo-Dutch Treaty in 1824. With this treaty, the Dutch agreed to cede Malacca to the British and in return, the British ceded all their colonies on Sumatra to the Dutch. The line of division roughly corresponds to what is today the border between Malaysia and [[Indonesia]]. Before World War II, the Malay Peninsula was governed by the British as the Federated Malay States (Selangor, Perak, Negeri Sembilan and Pahang), which were governed as a single protectorate, the Unfederated Malay States (Johor, Kedah, Perlis, Terengganu and Kelantan), which were each governed as separate protectorates. The Straits Settlements (Malacca, Penang and Singapore) were crown colonies directly administered by the British colonisers. These colonies and protectorates were collectively referred to as "[[Malaya]]". British Borneo consisted of the British colony of North Borneo, the Kingdom of Sarawak, which was ruled by a British family known as the "White Rajas", and the British protectorate of Brunei. [[Pacific War|World War II]] was disastrous for the British Malayan Command. The Japanese swept down both coasts of the Malay Peninsula and despite fierce fighting, much of the British military was tied down fighting the Germans in Europe and those that remained in Malaya simply could not cope with the Japanese onslaught. The British military equipment left to defend Malaya was outdated and no match for the modern technology used by the Japanese, and the only two British battleships based in the region, the HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse, were sunk by Japanese bombers off the East Coast of Malaya. By 31 January 1942, the British had been pushed all the way back to Singapore, which fell to the Japanese on 15 February 1942. The situation was no different on Borneo, which fell to the Japanese on 1 April 1942 after months of fierce fighting. The Japanese occupation was brutal, and many, particularly the ethnic Chinese, suffered and perished during the occupation. Among the most notorious atrocities committed by the Japanese were the Sandakan Death Marches, with only 6 out of 2,345 prisoners surviving the war. After World War II, the Federated Malay States, Unfederated Malay States and the Straits Settlements of Malacca and Penang were federated to form a single British colony known as the Malayan Union, with Singapore being split off to form a separate colony. In the Malayan Union, the sultans of the various states ceded all their powers except those in religious affairs to the British crown. However, widespread opposition to the Malayan Union led the British to reconsider their position, and in 1948, the Malayan Union was replaced by the Federation of Malaya, in which the executive positions of the sultans were restored. In Borneo, the White Rajas ceded Sarawak to the British crown in 1946, making it a crown colony of the United Kingdom. [[File:Dataran Merdeka (18359791323).jpg|thumb|Malaysian flag flying in ''Dataran Merdeka'', Kuala Lumpur]] On 31 August 1957, Malaya gained independence from the British. At midnight, the Union Jack was lowered, and the Malayan flag raised in its place at what is today ''Dataran Merdeka'' (Independence Square) in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. The crowd, led by the first Prime Minister of Malaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman, then proceeded to chant "''Merdeka''" seven times. On 16 September 1963, Malaysia was formed through the merging of Malaya with the British colonies of North Borneo (now known as Sabah), Sarawak and Singapore, with Brunei deciding not to join. The first several years of the country's history were marred by the Confrontation (''Konfrontasi'') — actually a series of acts of aggression by Indonesia that ultimately ended in her defeat and a formal peace that has held ever since — and claims to Sabah from the Philippines. On 9 August 1965 Singapore was officially expelled from the federation after several bloody racial riots as Singapore's majority Chinese population and the People's Action Party, led by Lee Kuan Yew (later the long-ruling Prime Minister of Singapore), were seen as a threat to Malay dominance. There were further racial riots in 1969, which led to the forced resignation of Tunku Abdul Rahman; his replacement by Tun Abdul Razak; changes in the Malaysian Constitution that sought to prevent the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition led by the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) from ever being defeated in a future national election; and the start of the New Economic Policy, which sought to aggressively promote the economic interests of the generally poorer Malay community (and also the non-Malay indigenous peoples of East Malaysia) over those of the generally less poor Chinese community (with the poorest major ethnic group, the Indians, and also to a very large extent the Orang Asli [aboriginal people] in the Peninsula mostly ignored in the process). In 1975, boat people from across the South China Sea in [[Vietnam]] started coming, and Malaysia became one of the most important places of first refuge for Indochinese refugees, but in general, only those of the Muslim Champa minority were invited to stay permanently. Later, during the period of tremendous economic development under the long premiership of Mahathir Mohammed, a large number of immigrant workers were invited from [[Bangladesh]], [[Indonesia]], [[India]], and several other countries in the area, and even more immigrated illegally. This further increased the diversity of the population, and quite a number of the workers were reported in local newspapers to have intermarried with local women, but it also led to social strife as many Malaysian men resented the competition, and while the economy depended on immigrant workers to do jobs most Malaysians were no longer willing to do, now that their standard of living was higher, most Malaysians also did not want to permanently absorb a large and potentially almost limitless number of poor people from the much more populous countries in the region. Some immigrants were expelled and even caned for immigration violations, but the issue has never been really resolved. Things came to a head in 2015 when allegations of corruption by then-prime minister Najib Razak surfaced in connection with 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), which was originally set up to promote economic development by attracting foreign investment. The allegations led to the ''Bersih'' (Malay for "clean") rally in which protesters unsuccessfully called for Najib to step down. However, widespread discontent arising from the 1MDB corruption scandal continued to simmer, eventually leading to a shock first-ever electoral defeat for the incumbent BN coalition in the 2018 general election. === Politics === Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy consisting of 13 states and 3 federal territories, nominally headed by the king (''Yang di-Pertuan Agong'', lit. Paramount Ruler), whose position rotates among the rulers of the 9 royal states of Malaysia every five years, giving Malaysia a unique political system of rotational monarchy. In practice, the king is only the nominal head of state, while the prime minister is the one who wields the most authority in government. Malaysia's government is largely based on the British Westminster system, consisting of a bicameral national parliament. The lower house, known as the ''Dewan Rakyat'' (Hall of the People) is elected directly by the people. The upper house, known as the ''Dewan Negara'' (National Hall), consists of 26 members elected by the state governments, with each state having 2 representatives, while the remaining members are appointed by the king. The head of government is the prime minister, who is the party leader of the winning party in the lower house. At the state level, each of the states also has its own unicameral ''Dewan Undangan Negeri'' (State Legislative Assembly), with the head of the state government being the ''Menteri Besar'' (First Minister, often translated as "Chief Minister" in English-language media) in the royal states, and the ''Ketua Menteri'' (Chief Minister) in the non-royal states. === Geography === Malaysia comprises two geographic regions, Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, which are separated by the South China Sea. '''Peninsular Malaysia''' (''Semenanjung Malaysia'') occupies all of the Malay Peninsula between [[Thailand]] and [[Singapore]], and is also known as West Malaysia (''Malaysia Barat'') or the slightly archaic [[Malaya]] (''Tanah Melayu''). It's home to the bulk of Malaysia's population, the capital and the largest city [[Kuala Lumpur]], and generally more economically developed. Peninsular Malaysia consists of plains on both the East and West Coasts, separated from each other by a mountain range known as the ''Banjaran Titiwangsa'', with the West Coast being more densely populated and generally more well-developed than the East Coast. Separated some 800&nbsp;km to the east of Peninsular Malaysia is '''East Malaysia''' (''Malaysia Timur''). East Malaysia occupies the northern third of the island of [[Borneo]], shared with [[Indonesia]] and tiny [[Brunei]]. Much of the development on East Malaysia is centred around the cities of [[Kuching]], [[Miri]] and [[Kota Kinabalu]]. Outside of the major cities and smaller towns are impenetrable jungle where head hunters once roamed and coastal plains rising to mountains. East Malaysia is rich in natural resources and is very much Malaysia's hinterland for industry and tourism, though those who make the trip will find it to be a world-class ecotourism destination. ===People=== Malaysia is a multicultural society. While Malays (a branch of the [[Austronesian]] group) make up a 52% majority, 27% of Malaysians are Chinese (who are especially visible in the cities), 9% are Indians, 12% are members of aboriginal peoples (often called ''Orang Asli'', Malay for "Original People"), and there is a miscellaneous grouping of 1.5% "others", including Thai communities in northern border states and the Portuguese clan in Malacca. The majority of the population (including virtually all Malays, as well as a significant minority of Indians) adheres to [[Islam]], the state religion, and there are substantial minorities who practice [[Christianity]], [[Buddhism]], Taoism, [[Hinduism]], [[Sikhism]] and animism, which are allowed under the constitution, subject to the supremacy of Islam — for example, it is illegal to proselytize other religions to Muslims. ===Culture=== Malaysia shares many cultural similarities with its neighbours, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore due to their common history. As the first great kingdoms to emerge in the region were Hindu kingdoms with much influence from India, Malay culture has substantial Indian influences. This is most visible in Malay cuisine with its relatively heavy use of curries, albeit using local instead of Indian spices, meaning that Malay curries often have a unique local flavour that is different from their Indian counterparts. In addition, the Malay language contains quite a few loan words from Sanskrit, and traditional Malay arts show noticeable influences from Hindu mythology, albeit Islamised. Malaysia's minorities also continue to maintain their own distinct cultures, with the Chinese and Indian communities continuing to preserve the traditions brought from their ancestral homelands. In particular, Malaysia's ethnic Chinese community is considered to have preserved Chinese culture and language the best among all the overseas Chinese communities of the world. Moreover, as Malaysia was unaffected by the Cultural Revolution, the ethnic Chinese community of Malaysia has preserved many elements of traditional Chinese culture that have been lost in mainland China. ===Holidays=== {{ramadandates}} One of the significant characteristics of Malaysian culture is its celebration of various festivals and events. The year is filled with colourful, exhilarating and exciting activities. Some are religious and solemn but others are vibrant, joyous events. One interesting feature of the main festivals here is the 'open house' custom. This is when Malaysians celebrating the festival invite friends and family to come by their homes for some traditional delicacies and fellowship. Multicultural Malaysia celebrates a vast range of festivals, but the ones to look out for nationwide are Islamic holidays, most notably the fasting month of '''Ramadan'''. During its 29 or 30 days, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sex from dawn to sunset. Not all Muslims follow the tradition, or sustain the full period of Ramadan fasting, but most do make a very serious effort. Pregnant, breast feeding or menstruating women are not expected to fast, nor are the elderly, the infirm, or travellers. People get up early before sunrise for a meal (''sahur''), and take off early to get back home in time to break fast (''buka puasa'') at sunset. At the end of the month is the festival of '''Eid ul-Fitr''', known locally as '''Hari Raya Puasa''' or '''Aidilfitri''', when many locals take one to two weeks off to 'balik kampung' or return to their home towns to meet family and friends. Accordingly, this is one of the many times in a year when major cities like Kuala Lumpur have virtually no traffic congestion. Another important festival is the Muslim festival of '''Eid ul-Adha''', known locally as '''Hari Raya Haji''' or '''Aidiladha'''. It is during this festival that Muslims perform the Hajj or pilgrimage to Mecca. In local mosques, cows and goats are donated by the faithful and sacrificed, after which the meat is distributed to all. Family reunions are also celebrated during other main festivals when locals usually put on traditional costumes and finery as these festivals are an integral feature of Malaysian society. During the month of Ramadan, non-Muslims are expected to be considerate of those fasting. Non-Muslims, as well as Muslims travelling (''musafir''), are exempt from fasting but it is polite to refrain from eating or drinking in public. Public school systems also require non-Muslims to refrain from eating in front of those who are fasting. Many restaurants close during the day and those that stay open maintain a low profile. Business travellers will notice that things move rather more slowly than usual. The upside for foreign travellers are the Ramadan bazaars in every city and town, bustling with activity and bursting at the seams with great food. That said, most Chinese stalls and restaurants remain open, and you will see people eating and drinking openly in Chinese-majority areas. Hotels and restaurants also pull out all stops to put on massive spreads of food for fast-breaking feasts. During the month of Ramadan, meals at the end of fasts are usually considered grand feasts. Worldwide fast-food chain McDonald's is known for holding several all-you-can-eat Ramadan feasts during the month. {{CNYdates}} Other major holidays include '''Chinese New Year''' (around January/February), '''Deepavali''' or '''Diwali''', the Hindu festival of lights (around October/November), the Buddhist holiday of '''Wesak''' (around May/June), and '''Christmas''' (25 December). During Chinese New Year, George Town and Ipoh become the major cities as many local Chinese working and living in KL originated from there. However this situation is changing gradually, as more and more people are making Kuala Lumpur their home town. While visiting during such festivals, travellers will be able to experience many wonderful celebrations, but the downside is many ethnic shops/eateries will be closed. The best option is to visit during the period just after the first two days of the major festival (Hari Raya/Chinese New Year), when shops will open, and the festive mood has still not died down. Another major celebration is '''Deepavali''', celebrated by the Malaysian Hindus as the festival of light originating from classical India and one of the main cultural celebrations. In Malaysia, locals practice this tradition by wearing new clothes and receiving token gifts of money. This practice has been adapted by all Malaysians regardless of their religion. They distribute red packets or ''ang pow'' during Chinese New Year, green packets or 'duit raya' for Hari Raya Aidilfitri and multi-coloured packets during Deepavali. Some uniquely Malaysian festivals of note include the '''Harvest Festival''' at the end of May each year and the ''''Pesta Gawai'''' in early June, both thanksgiving celebrations held in [[East Malaysia]]. '''Thaipusam''' is a Hindu festival that falls in January or February and is one of the must-see events. The largest procession in the country takes place at Batu Caves, Selangor. Male devotees carry decorated altars or ''kavadi'' up a flight of 272 steps towards the temple, all this while also having religious spears and hooks pierced through external surfaces of their bodies. The ability is attributed to divine intervention and religious fervour. Female devotees join the procession carrying pots of milk on their head instead. === Climate === The '''climate''' in Malaysia is equatorial. The north-east monsoon (October to February) deluges Borneo and the East Coast of the Peninsula in rain and often causes flooding, while the West Coast (particularly Langkawi and Penang) escapes unscathed. The milder south-west monsoon (April to October) reverses the pattern. The southern and central parts of Peninsular Malaysia, including perennially soggy Kuala Lumpur, are exposed to both but even during the rainy season, the showers tend to be intense but brief. Malaysia is close to the equator, so warm weather is guaranteed. Temperatures generally range from 32°C (90°F) at noon to about 26°C (79°F) at midnight. But like most Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia's sun-shining days are interrupted by monsoon season every year, and night temperatures can hit a low of about 23°C (73°F) on rainy days. Temperatures tend to be cooler in the highlands, with the likes of [[Genting Highlands]], [[Cameron Highlands]] and [[Fraser's Hill]] having temperatures ranging from about 17°C (63°F) at night to about 25°C (77°F) in the day. Mount Kinabalu is known to have temperatures falling below 10°C (50°F). ===Tourist information === * [https://www.tourism.gov.my/ Malaysia Tourism Corporation] == Talk == {{seealso|Malay phrasebook}} The national-level official language of Malaysia is '''[[Malay phrasebook|Malay]]''' (officially ''Bahasa Malaysia'', sometimes also known as ''Bahasa Melayu'') and '''English''' is also the co-official language of the state of [[Sarawak]]. The [[Indonesian phrasebook|Indonesian]] language, spoken across the border in Indonesia, is similar to Malay, and speakers of both languages can generally understand each other. The main differences are in the loanwords: Malay borrowed more from English, while Indonesian borrowed more from Dutch. Some parts of Malaysia near the Thai border, most notably [[Kelantan]], have dialects of Malay which are nearly incomprehensible to speakers of standard Malay, though most people in these areas will be able to converse in standard Malay if needed. '''English''' is compulsory in all schools and widely spoken in the larger cities, among the well-educated upper class, as well as around the main tourist attractions, although in rural areas a little Malay will come in handy. There is also a local dialect of English spoken among Malaysians in urban areas, not inappropriately known as '''Manglish''', which has its own simplified grammar and a vocabulary that is mostly English but includes borrowings from Malay and several other locally-spoken languages; it takes a bit of getting used to if you intend to join in the conversation on local topics. Almost all Malaysians will not pronounce the letter "h", so "three" becomes "tree". Malaysians will almost always try to speak 'standardized English' (British) when approached by Western travellers. In general, police stations and government offices have English-speaking staff on duty. [[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]] is taught to those who attend Islamic religious schools, and many clerics as well as other very observant Muslims have a functional command of Arabic. However, it is not widely spoken, though the Malay language does have a large number of loan words from Arabic. You also might notice some examples of Malay written with Arabic letters. This is called Jawi, and it is still used for religious publications and inscriptions, especially in more conservative states like [[Kelantan]], although the Latin alphabet is much more commonly used throughout the country. The Chinese community in Malaysia speaks a wide variety of Chinese dialects including [[Cantonese phrasebook|Cantonese]], [[Teochew phrasebook|Teochew]], [[Hakka phrasebook|Hakka]], [[Hainanese phrasebook|Hainanese]], [[Fuzhou dialect phrasebook|Hokchiu]] and [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]]. [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] is taught in Chinese schools while Cantonese is commonly heard in the mass media due to the popularity of TVB serials from Hong Kong among the Chinese community, so many are conversant in both, regardless of their native dialect. Malaysian cities with large ethnic Chinese populations will often have a dialect serving as a lingua franca among that community: in Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh, this is Cantonese; in Penang and Klang, Hokkien; and in Kota Kinabalu, Hakka. The most commonly spoken Indian language is [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]]; others include [[Malayalam phrasebook|Malayalam]], [[Punjabi phrasebook|Punjabi]] and [[Telugu phrasebook|Telugu]]. In the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia bordering Thailand, there are various ethnic Thai communities, known locally as the ''Orang Siam'', who speak various dialects of [[Thai phrasebook|Thai]]. [[Malacca]] in the south is also home to a Portuguese community which speaks a [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]] based creole. The remote forest areas of Peninsular Malaysia are also home to various tribal people known as the ''Orang Asli'', who speak various indigenous languages such as Semelai, Temuan and many others. In East Malaysia several indigenous languages are also spoken, especially [[Iban phrasebook|Iban]] and Kadazan. Films and television programmes are usually shown in their original language with Malay subtitles, although some children's programmes are dubbed into Malay. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== {{VisaRestriction |Entry '''will be refused''' to citizens of [[Israel]] with an Israeli passport unless holding a letter of approval from the Malaysian Ministry of Home Affairs. Additionally citizens of Israel require an onward ticket and will be asked to purchase one or be '''refused entry'''. Malaysia is no longer concerned about other nationals' passports that show entry stamps and/or visas from Israel. |lastedit=2013-03-07 }} ====Visa==== [[Image:World map of the visa policy of Malaysia.png|thumb|375px]] Most nationalities can enter Malaysia without a visa and can reside in Malaysia for 14 to 90 days, depending on their nationality. Refer to the '''[https://www.kln.gov.my/ Ministry of Foreign Affairs]''' for current information regarding visa requirements and stay periods. The East Malaysian states of [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]] each maintains its own immigration system and separate controls: even Malaysians from other states require a passport or MyKad on arrival. Those who wish to enter Malaysia for purposes other than for a Social or Business visit still require a visa for any period except for US citizens who enter for the purpose of studying. Nationals of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Montenegro, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Serbia, and Sri Lanka need a visa but can apply for an '''e-visa''', which is valid for 3 months for a stay of up to 30 days. You'll have to print out the visa once it's issued and bring proof of sufficient funds, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation when you enter the country. Citizens of India are exempted needing to have a visa for a stay of up to 30 days until December 31, 2026. '''Overstaying''' a visa will result in a US$10, €7.50 or RM30 fine per day. However it's fairly simple to avoid overstaying a visa by doing a "visa run" to a neighbouring country overland or via a cheap flight. Malaysia may impose '''caning''' as a punishment for overstaying a visa. ====Malaysia Digital Arrival Card==== Since 2024, all foreign travellers must complete the '''[https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)]''' online for every visit to Malaysia. You can only complete this card a maximum of 3 days ahead of your arrival — in practice you can even submit it on the day of arrival while in the queue to immigration. At KLIA there are also PCs available before immigration where you can complete the card. ====Autogates==== Travellers from most visa-free countries may use the '''autogates''' to complete immigration formalities when entering and exiting Malaysia via multiple ports of entry such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and the Causeway in Johor Bahru. Your passport needs to be valid for a minimum of 6 months if entering via KLIA, or 3 months if entering by road from Singapore. Entry through any other immigration checkpoint will require you to be processed at a manned immigration counter. {{infobox|Fingerprinting at Immigration|Malaysian Immigration authorities '''fingerprint''' visitors on arrival and departure. These fingerprints may well find their way to other country's authorities or other non-state agencies.}} It is advisable to use autogates if you can, as the immigration queues can be quite brutal. If you are qualified for the autogates, you don't need to enroll. You can proceed directly to an autogate, even if it's your first visit. There is one exception: if you want to proceed to East Malaysia, you need to go to a human counter and have your passport stamped as it is required by Malaysian law. You will need to clear immigration by showing your passport with an entry stamp when you arrive at a port in East Malaysia. If you are not a Malaysian citizen and cannot use the autogates, '''ensure that your passport is stamped on entry''', or you would be considered to have entered illegally otherwise (and Malaysian immigration officials don't always give entry stamps unprompted). Fines on the order of RM3,000 will be imposed when you try to leave without the entry stamp in your passport. Also '''ensure that your passport is stamped when you leave''', or you would be considered to have left illegally otherwise, which could cause problems should you wish to visit Malaysia again in the future. ====Transit visas==== Even though citizens of Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka normally require a visa, they can transit the same airport for up to 120 hours provided they arrive and depart on the same airline, land at [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]], [[Kota Kinabalu]], [[Kuching]], [[Penang]] or [[Johor Bahru]] and present an air ticket for the onward flight. ====Customs==== Travellers are not permitted to bring more than the equivalent of US$10,000 in Malaysian ringgit per person in and out of the country. There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you can bring into or out of Malaysia, but you are required to declare to customs if the total amount of cash and traveller's cheques you are carrying exceeds the equivalent of US$10,000 per person. Non-Muslim travellers aged 21 and above are permitted to bring up to 1L of alcohol into Malaysia. There is ''no'' duty free allowance for tobacco products including cigarettes; all tobacco products must be declared and duties paid. ===By plane=== [[File:KLIA MTB&Tower.jpg|thumb|[[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]] in [[Sepang]], [[Selangor]].]] National carrier '''[https://www.malaysiaairlines.com Malaysia Airlines]''' (MAS) has extensive coverage within Asia, and intercontinental flights to Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. It regularly ranks high in airline quality assessments. Low-cost carrier '''AirAsia''' and its sister company, '''AirAsia X''', connects an ever-expanding set of countries including [[Australia]], [[China]], [[Cambodia]], [[Hong Kong]], [[India]], [[Indonesia]], [[Laos]], [[Macau]], [[New Zealand]], the [[Philippines]], [[Singapore]], [[Sri Lanka]], [[Thailand]], [[Myanmar]] and [[Vietnam]]. Emirates also flies from most cities to [[Kuala Lumpur]] via [[Dubai]], and flights to [[Perth]], [[Australia]], make a brief stop in [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport|KLIA]]. * {{listing | name=AirAsia | alt= | url=http://www.airasia.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 3 8775-4000, 1 300 88 9933 (in country only)| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Malaysia Airlines | alt= | url=http://www.malaysiaairlines.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 3 7846-3000, 1-300-88-3000 (in country only)| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Emirates Airlines | alt= | url=http://www.emirates.com/my/english/index.aspx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 36 207 4999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} Most international flights land at '''[[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]] [http://www.klia.com.my (KLIA)]''' ({{IATA|KUL}}). KLIA's predecessor, the '''Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport''' ({{IATA|SZB}}) in Subang near [[Kuala Lumpur]] handles mostly domestic turboprop fights, with limited regional services to [[Singapore]] and [[Jakarta]]. See the [[Kuala Lumpur#get in|Kuala Lumpur '''Get in''' section]] for detailed airport information. Other airports which have significant numbers of flights to regional destinations are [[Kota Kinabalu]] (Sabah), [[Penang]], [[Kuching]] (Sarawak), [[Langkawi]] and [[Johor Bahru]]. Some other smaller airports also serve limited international flights from [[Singapore]]. === By train === * '''From Singapore:''' There's a shuttle train service which runs seven times each way during the morning and evening peak periods from Woodlands Train Station (in the north of [[Singapore]]) to JB sentral in [[Johor Bahru]], costing MYR5 from the Malaysian side and SGD5 on the Singapore side. Conventional intercity trains then connect [[Johor Bahru]] with [[Gemas]] (where you can transfer to a train to [[Kuala Lumpur]]) and Tumpat, near [[Kota Bharu]]. They don't always match up to the shuttle times, so be prepared for long waiting times or get a backup plan by bus should you miss the shuttle. Early morning trains to Singapore and late evening trains to Malaysia are usually packed on the weekdays and the traffic flow reverses on the weekends. Booking online at the [http://www.ktmb.com.my KTMB website] may reserve a precious seat without hassle. When travelling from Singapore into Malaysia, both Singaporean and Malaysian immigration checks are conducted at Woodlands Train Station before boarding the train for Malaysia. In the reverse direction, Malaysian immigration checks are conducted at JB Sentral before boarding, while Singaporean immigration checks are conducted on arrival in Woodlands. * '''From Thailand:''' Trains from Thailand start and terminate at the border at [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] where Thai and Malaysian immigration formalities are all conveniently done in the station, and you can transfer between Malaysian and Thai trains. There are two Padang Besar stations; one in Thailand and one in Malaysia; be sure to get off the train only at the Padang Besar station in Malaysia, as that is where both Thai and Malaysian immigration checks are conducted, and where transfers between Malaysian and Thai trains take place. There is also a less used eastern route from [[Hat Yai]] to Thai border town [[Sungai Kolok]], but there are no through trains to the nearby Malaysian station at Wakaf Bahru (near [[Kota Bharu]]). === By bus === Long-distance buses/coaches into Malaysia run from Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. Please see the relevant city pages for more details. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — There are buses to [[Miri]] and [[Kota Kinabalu]], leaving from the waterfront in downtown [[Bandar Seri Begawan]]. There are also buses to [[Limbang]]. * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — Direct buses operate between [[Pontianak]] or [[Singkawang]] in [[West Kalimantan]] and [[Kuching]] in [[Sarawak]]. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — A multitude of bus companies operate direct routes from Singapore to various destinations in [[Peninsular Malaysia]], including [[Malacca]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Penang]], [[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] cities and even [[Petaling Jaya]] and [[Subang Jaya]]. Frequent public buses make the short run between Singapore and [[Johor Bahru]], and you can save a few bucks by changing at JB's Larkin terminal to a cheap domestic bus instead of taking a more expensive direct bus. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — Several companies operate services from [[Kuala Lumpur]] and other cities in Malaysia to [[Hat Yai]] in [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]], where direct connections are available to [[Bangkok]] and many other Thai destinations. === By taxi=== Special cross-border taxis operate between Singapore and Johor Bahru. See [[Johor_Bahru#By_taxi]] for details. === By road=== [[File:Danok Sadao Border Crossing2.jpg|thumb|Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint in [[Kedah]], on the border with [[Thailand]]]] Land crossings are possible from [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]] and Singapore into [[Peninsular Malaysia]], as well as from Brunei and [[Kalimantan]] (the Indonesian side of Borneo) into [[Sarawak]]. There is no official crossing into [[Sabah]] from Indonesia even though they share a land border. An International Drivers Permit (IDP) is required. See the respective city or state pages for more detailed information. Starting from 1st October 2024, a vehicle entry permit (VEP) is required to drive a foreign-registered car into Malaysia from Singapore. You must apply for the permit [https://vep.jpj.gov.my/ online], affix the RFID tag that will be sent to your home address to your car, and activate the tag online before you can drive into Malaysia. Unless you already have a car in Singapore, it makes more sense to cross the border first and rent much more cheaply in Malaysia. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — The main crossings are at '''Sungai Tujoh''' on the [[Miri]], [[Sarawak]], to [[Bandar Seri Begawan]] (Brunei) road, and the '''Kuala Lurah-Tedungan''' checkpoint which is used for traffic travelling between Bandar Seri Begawan and [[Limbang]] in [[Sarawak]]. You can also access the [[Temburong]] district of Brunei by road from [[Limbang]] via the Pandaruan (Puni on the Brunei side) checkpoint and [[Lawas]] via Trusan (Labu on the Brunei side). * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — The main crossing is at the '''Tebedu-Entikong''' checkpoint on the main [[Kuching]]-[[Pontianak]] road. The other two official crossings are the '''Biawak-Aruk''' crossing on the main Kuching-[[Singkawang]] road, and the more remote '''Lubok Antu-Nanga Badau''' crossing. All three crossings are between the Malaysian state of [[Sarawak]] and the Indonesian province of [[West Kalimantan]]. There are also several unofficial crossings that are used by locals, but as a foreigner, you should not use them as that is considered to be illegal entry. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — The two crossings are the '''Causeway''' which links [[Johor Bahru]] with '''Woodlands''' in Singapore, and the Malaysia-Singapore '''Second Link''' (''Linkedua'') which links [[Iskandar Puteri]] with Tuas in Singapore. See [[Johor Baru#Get in|Johor Bahru '''Get in''' section]] and [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore '''Get in''' section]] for more details. Generally speaking, the Second Link is less congested than the Causeway, and is more convenient for those who wish to drive up the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, but a lot less convenient for people who just want to visit Johor Bahru. Singapore-registered cars must have their fuel tank filled to at least ¾ full when leaving Singapore. '''Cycling into Malaysia''' is permitted only through the Causeway but not the Second Link; use the motorcycle lanes and have your entry processed at the manual motorcycle counters. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — International checkpoints (from west to east, with the Thai towns in brackets) are at '''[[Wang Kelian]]''' ([[Satun]]) and '''[[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]]''' ([[Padang Besar (Thailand)|Padang Besar]]) in [[Perlis]], '''[[Bukit Kayu Hitam]]''' ([[Sadao]]) and '''Kota Putra''' (Banprokob) in [[Kedah]], '''Pengkalan Hulu''' (Betong) in [[Perak]], and '''Bukit Bunga''' (Buketa) and '''[[Rantau Panjang]]''' ([[Sungai Kolok]]) in [[Kelantan]]. Thai immigration has long been known to demand a bribe of RM2/20 baht per person to stamp you in or out, though there has been a crackdown on this. Instead, there is now an official fee levied by Thai immigration if you are crossing the border at peak times (5AM-8:30AM, noon-1PM or 4:30PM-9PM on weekdays, and all day on weekends and both Malaysian and Thai public holidays); this is 25 baht for the driver and 5 baht for each passenger if crossing the border by car, and 10 baht for the rider and 3 baht for the pillion if crossing by motorcycle. No fee is payable if you are walking across the border. === By boat === [[File:Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal.jpg|thumb|Ferry terminal in [[Iskandar Puteri]], [[Johor]]]] Ferries connect various points in [[Peninsular Malaysia]] with [[Sumatra]] in Indonesia and [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]], [[Sarawak]] with Brunei, and [[Sabah]] with [[East Kalimantan]] in Indonesia and [[Mindanao]] in the Philippines. Luxury cruises also run from Singapore and sometimes [[Phuket]] (Thailand) to Malaysia. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — Ferries travel daily between the Muara Ferry Terminal in Brunei and [[Labuan]]. * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — The main jumping-off points from Indonesia are the [[Riau Islands]] of [[Batam]], [[Bintan]] and [[Karimun]]; [[Dumai]], [[Medan]] and [[Pekanbaru]] on the [[Sumatra]] mainland as well as [[Nunukan]] in [[East Kalimantan]]. Ferries link [[Batam]] with Batu Pahat, [[Iskandar Puteri]] and [[Johor Bahru]]; [[Bintan]] with [[Johor Bahru]]; [[Karimun]] with Batu Pahat and Kukup in [[Johor]]; Dumai with [[Malacca]], Muar in [[Johor]], Port Dickson (in [[Negeri Sembilan]]) and [[Port Klang]], the port for [[Selangor]]; Pekanbaru with [[Malacca]]. Daily ferries also link Nunukan and [[Tarakan]] with Tawau in [[Sabah]]. There are also minor crossings like between Bengkalis in [[Riau]] and Batu Pahat; [[Sumatra]] and [[Malacca]] and Muar in [[Johor]]; and Tanjung Balai Asahan in [[North Sumatra]] with [[Port Klang]], the port for [[Selangor]]. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — A daily ferry runs between Tanah Merah and [[Desaru]], and there is a weekend service between Tanah Merah and [[Pengerang]], both in [[Johor]]. See the [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore '''Get in''' section]] for details. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — Four ferries travel daily (reduced to three during Ramadan) between Tammalang at [[Satun]] and Kuah on [[Langkawi]], Malaysia. Both passenger bum boats and vehicular ferries operate between Ban Taba near [[Tak Bai]] in [[Narathiwat_(province)|Narathiwat province]] and Pengkalan Kubur in [[Kelantan]], Malaysia. === On foot === It is possible to enter Malaysia from [[Thailand]] on foot at [[Wang Kelian]] and [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] (both in [[Perlis]]), [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]] ([[Kedah]]), Pengkalan Hulu ([[Perak]]) and [[Rantau Panjang]] ([[Kelantan]]). From [[Singapore]], it is possible to cross into Malaysia on foot using the Causeway, but be prepared for a very long walk as Malaysian immigration is now located 2km inland from the border. Unlike the previous customs and immigration complex, the current one was not set up to handle pedestrian traffic, meaning that there are no pedestrian footpaths on the Malaysian side, and you have to walk on the road among vehicular traffic to get to customs and immigration. Crossing the Second Link on foot is not allowed; not that there would be any practical way to continue your journey on either side even if you did. In East Malaysia, there is a ferry from [[Kota Kinabalu]] to [[Labuan]]. == Get around == Immigration controls are in place for travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, as well as between the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. Malaysian citizens need to present their ID cards, while foreign citizens are required to present their passports in order to travel. === By plane === Flying is the only practical option for traveling between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, as well as reaching some of the more remote outposts of Borneo. Largely thanks to budget carrier '''[http://www.airasia.com AirAsia]''', Malaysia is crisscrossed by a web of affordable flights with advertised promotional prices starting at RM9 for flights booked well in advance. State carrier '''[http://www.malaysiaairlines.com Malaysia Airlines]''' also has competitive fares which now include equally or even lower-priced tickets if booked in advance through the internet, with a few more frills. Their offshoot '''[https://www.fireflyz.com.my/my/en/home.html Firefly]''' operates a handy network of turboprop flights radiating out of Penang and Kuala Lumpur's second airport Subang (Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah). In [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]], '''[http://www.maswings.com.my MASWings]''', operates turboprop services linking interior communities, including those in the [[Kelabit Highlands]], with coastal cities. === By bus === {{infobox|Report Bad Drivers|Bus drivers (especially on more "rural" routes) sometimes drive carelessly, speed like maniacs, overtake on blind corners, etc. The vast majority of journeys are problem-free. However, some horrific accidents attributed to reckless driving have led to a crackdown and a nationwide hotline, and an SMS number for reporting these drivers/vehicles has been set up. This number is conveniently pasted on the back of every single large vehicle in the country.}} [[File:Higer-RapidPenang.JPG|thumb|Public bus in Penang]] The cheapest way to travel in Malaysia is by bus. All towns of any size have a bus terminal offering connections to other parts of the country. There are many companies of varying degrees of dependability, but two of the largest and more reliable are '''[https://www.transnasional.com.my/ Transnasional]''' and '''[http://www.plusliner.com.my/ NICE/Plusliner]'''. 24-seater "luxury" buses are recommended for long-distance travel. Air conditioning on some buses can be extremely cold so don't forget to bring a good sweater, pants and socks, especially for overnight journeys on luxury buses! If travelling on holidays or even over the weekend, it is advisable to reserve your seats in advance. Many bus companies allow for you to book online directly through their website. However, some only allow online booking for individuals with Malaysian credit cards, which is not really convenient for international visitors. With some website you will still have to pay a station fee of RM2 at the bus station, with others not. At TBS (KL) it is easy to book a bus directly at the station. Often RM0.40 are charged as insurance by stations, tell them if you don't want that. The common booking websites are: * {{listing | name=Bus Online Ticket |alt=| url=https://www.busonlineticket.com/ | email=sales@busonlineticket.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+603 2027 4626 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-05-26| content= }} * {{listing | name=redBus | alt= | url=http://www.redbus.sg | email=support@redbus.sg | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+65-31582888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Easybook | alt=Easibook | url=http://www.easybook.com | email=enquiry@easybook.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 332 7718 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-03-27 | content= }} === By train === [[File:Padang Besar 4.jpg|thumb|KTM ETS train at Padang Besar station]] State operator [http://www.ktmb.com.my '''Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad''' (KTMB)] provides relatively inexpensive and generally reliable services around [[Peninsular Malaysia]] (but not [[Sabah]]/[[Sarawak]] in [[Borneo]]). The main western line connects [[Butterworth]] (Penang), [[Ipoh]], [[Kuala Lumpur]] and [[Johor Bahru]], while the eastern line branches off at [[Gemas]] and runs through [[Gua Musang]] and the [[Taman Negara]] to [[Tumpat]], near the Thai border and the [[Perhentian Islands]]. Be sure to hold on to your ticket, as it will be checked at your destination station before you are allowed to leave. The pride of KTMB's fleet is the '''ETS''' (Electric Train Service) from the Thai border at [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] to [[Segamat]], with a branch line to [[Butterworth]] (with transfers to/from [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] by ferry), running clean, punctual and modern air-conditioned trains daily at up to 140&nbsp;km/h. ETS trains are classified as '''Express''', '''Platinum''', '''Gold''' and '''Silver''', with the former the fastest and stopping only at major stations, and the latter being the slowest and stopping at every station. Seating in all four is the same but faster trains are slightly more expensive, with the fares for the popular KL-Ipoh route clocking in at 46 RM (Express) to 31 RM (Silver). Platinum trains also offer a '''business class''' cabin at extra cost, with wider seats and more leg room, and access to a business class lounge if you are departing from KL Sentral. There is no longer ETS service from Padang Besar to Butterworth; the route is served by '''KTM Komuter''' trains instead, which while also electrified and air-conditioned are designed for commuter rather than long-distance travel. The rest of the network, though, is mostly single-track, with slow diesel locos and all too frequent breakdowns and delays. In May, 2016 KTMB ceased all sleeper trains on the western line, following the electrification of the track to Gemas. An air conditioned 2nd class only, diesel shuttle train now connects the section from Gemas to JB Sentral. Electrification and double tracking of the Gemas to [[Johor Bahru]] section is expected to be completed by 2025. The '''[[Jungle Railway]]''' is the apt description for the eastern line between [[Tumpat]] (close to the Thai border) and [[Gemas]], including stops at [[Gua Musang]], [[Kuala Lipis]], [[Jerantut]] (for [[Taman Negara]]) and Wakaf Bahru (for [[Kota Bharu]] and the [[Perhentian Islands]]). The daytime services on this line use clean, modern and air-conditioned "Class 61" diesel multiple units (DMUs), which have replaced the old non-air-conditioned locomotive-hauled trains, though the seats do not recline, which can make them rather uncomfortable for longer journeys. No daytime services run along the entire line, so you will need to change trains at Kuala Lipis to travel all the way between Gemas and Tumpat. The eastern line also has one night express train (for which reservations are possible and recommended) going in each direction between Johor Bahru and Tumpat. These use older locomotive-hauled trainsets, which have air-con seats and '''Superior Night''' (ADNS) sleeper cars, which have upper and lower berths along each side, each bunk having a solid partition at each end and a side curtain for privacy. The carriages shake and rattle quite a bit but are comfortable and clean, though the toilets may come across as a little grimy. These trains have windows for both top and bottom bunks, unlike on Thai sleeper trains. A third line, known as the '''[https://www.mrl.com.my/en/ East Coast Rail Link]''' is under construction between [[Port Klang]] and [[Kota Bharu]], with plans for it to pass through [[Kuantan]] and [[Kuala Terengganu]] along the way. It is scheduled to be completed in 2027. Tickets can be booked and even printed online at KTMB's site. Enquiries and reservations can be made by phone at KTMB's call centres, {{Phone|+60 3 2267-1200}} (Malaysia) or, {{Phone|+65 6222-5165}} (Singapore). In East Malaysia, the only railway line is run by [https://railway.sabah.gov.my/ '''Jabatan Kereta Api Negeri Sabah''' (JKNS)]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Web-site in Malay only), running from Tanjung Aru near [[Kota Kinabalu]] to the town of [[Tenom]]. The '''[https://www.belmond.com/trains/asia/eastern-and-oriental-express/ Eastern & Oriental Express]''' was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and as of May 2025 only conducts luxury excursions within Malaysia. === By car === [[File:Malaysia Expressway Network.svg|thumb|A map of Malaysia's expressways (all are in Peninsular Malaysia; none are in Sabah or Sarawak), with dotted lines indicating proposed ones that have yet to be built]] {{main|Driving in Malaysia}} Malaysia has an excellent highway network with over {{km|2000}} of expressways, culminating in the '''North-South Expressway''' (''Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan'') along the West Coast from [[Johor Bahru]] at the border with [[Singapore]] all the way to [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]] in [[Kedah]] at the border with [[Thailand]]. There is also the '''East Coast Expressway''' (''Lebuhraya Pantai Timur''), crossing Peninsular Malaysia coast-to-coast from [[Kuala Lumpur]] to [[Kuantan]] before heading up north towards [[Kuala Terengganu]]. Petrol is slightly cheaper than market prices at RM1.90/litre (Ron 95) (in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak). Tolls are payable on expressways, but these are priced at varying degrees, ranging from expensive to reasonable: driving the length of the country {{km|734}} from the Thai border to Singapore costs RM108. While you can drive from Singapore to Thailand within a day on the West Coast, the highway system is considerably less developed on the East Coast, and even less so in Sabah and Sarawak, so be sure to factor in additional travel time if travelling in those areas. Toll prices for highways and causeways inside major cities, especially Kuala Lumpur, are priced exorbitantly, ranging from RM4 to RM7 for each exit. For those thinking of using GPS (Garmin, Papago, Galactio and Mio-Polnav), the Malaysia maps can be downloaded for free from http://www.malfreemaps.com/index.php{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} Garmin user lucky enough to have another choice from http://www.malsingmaps.com/portal/. Both party maps is contributed by the amazing non-profit group of people who share a common passion to make a GPS maps of Malaysia. While driving quality and habits in Malaysia are better than in most of the rest of Southeast Asia, they are not necessarily great, especially compared to what visitors from most Western countries are used to at home. Traffic in Malaysia drives on the left, a legacy left by the British. Beware reckless motorcyclists, especially at night, and especially if you are a pedestrian: locals typically disregard a red light for left turns, putting pedestrians at risk. As a motorist, at traffic lights, motorcyclists will accumulate in front of you — let them drive away first to avoid accidents. Care is needed when driving in larger cities, such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and George Town. Problems include apparently suicidal motorcyclists, congested traffic lanes throughout the day, and bewildering roads especially in the older parts of the city where planning was virtually nonexistent by the then British colonial occupiers. Out of town, however, cars and motorcycles are the best and sometimes the only way to explore the country. Some of the more rural areas have motorcycles and scooters to rent for as little as RM25/day, a great way to explore the local area or larger islands like Langkawi. As expected, most rental agencies will require a valid driving licence to be presented upon rental. Fuel levels are often compared before and after rental, and the vehicle is also checked for damage, so ensure everything is documented, and request a refund of any excess fuel if possible. The bigger car rental companies like Hertz and Avis may also require you to have a valid credit card where a deposit will be authorised but not deducted from (unless there is damage to the car). === By taxi === [[File:Taxi in Penang 02.JPG|thumb|Taxi in Penang]] Taxis are available in all cities and larger towns, although in smaller places you may have to call one (ask any shopkeeper or consult the yellow-pages). You will generally need to negotiate the fare in advance, although prepaid coupon taxis are usually available at airports. RM5 should suffice for a short cross-town trip, while RM100 is enough to hire a taxi for a full day. [[File:KotaKinabalu Sabah Taxi-waiting-for-passengers-01.jpg|thumb|Taxis in [[Kota Kinabalu]], [[Sabah]]]] Many taxis will refuse to use the meter, even though there is an official rate. Most taxis now have a sticker on the rear door informing tourists that haggling is prohibited. Taxi drivers, sensing that you are a tourist, may drive around and take a very long route to reach your destination. If you need a taxi late at night, it is best to use the dial-a-taxi service as there have been incidents in which taxis flagged down during those hours have been fake/unregistered. An unregistered taxi driver might rob or assault you with the help of other assailants. You are also more likely to get a metered taxi by flagging one at a street than at a taxi stand. It is advisable to study maps and compare fares on the internet before visiting the country. Knowing distances between places is helpful when negotiating with taxi drivers. They won't try to fool even a foreigner who demonstrates clearly that he knows the distance from point A to point B is 50 km and not 150 km. Do not accept the first rates for inter-city travels by car offered by hotels, as these could be as much as double normal prices. In this case, negotiate with a taxi driver directly for a better and fair price (for example, a hotel near Balok Beach, not very far from Kuantan, asked 800 RM for a ride to Johor Bahru, while a negotiated price with a taxi driver who could be found in downtown Kuantan came down to a normal 400 RM). But for all this you need to know the exact distance and if possible even the exact itinerary between your departure and arrival point. In Kuala Lumpur, the budget taxis are usually coloured Red and White (City taxi – these taxis are not allowed to travel out of the city e.g. to another state) or Yellow. Taxis are usually small saloons such as Proton Wira and run on NGV (Natural Gas). The Blue taxis are larger saloons or MPVs (Multi Purpose Vehicles) and more luxurious. These cost typically 25–30% more than the budget taxis & are normally available at taxi stands all over Kuala Lumpur including the major malls & hotels. The Red & White taxis can be hailed off the roads and are metered. Ensure that the taxi driver is a Malaysian (all drivers must have a taxi permit &amp; license with their photo on it) before you board, as unscrupulous taxi owners have been known to rent their taxi out to unlicensed stand-ins. All legal taxi drivers must be Malaysian citizens or permanent residents as the Malaysian government does not issue work visas to foreigners to drive taxis. Additionally, beware of unlicensed taxis ''(taxi sapu)'' at the airports. They can literally take you for a ride. There will be touts at the airports offering travellers their taxi service, even pretending to be legitimate. As unbelievable as it may sound, some have been known to rob first time visitors hundreds of ringgit for a single trip into the city, charging 100 times more than the correct fare. At the airports '''always''' get your taxi from the authorised operators' booths set up in the airport itself & '''never''' from anyone that solicits directly. They will always claim to be legitimate but are rarely licensed and may be unsafe. The taxi operator booths can provide you with receipts. Another tip is to book your taxis in advance. All good hotels' concierge will be able to assist you with this. If travelling in an unlicensed taxi you may not be covered by your travel insurance should that taxi be involved in a mishap. === By ride-hailing === The most popular ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/my/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former Southeast Asian operations. You can pay with your card (via the Grab app) or cash; most drivers have change. Rides within KL seldomly cost more than RM15. If it seems overly expensive at a certain moment, walk a little and check again — often near major points of interests ride are more expensive. ===By bicycle=== Although Malaysia's cycling infrastructure is not well developed, travelling by bicycle is a good way to enjoy the scenery while exploring rural Malaysia. Long-distance bicycle tours are sometimes organised by enthusiast groups, including some cross-border tours from Singapore. When cycling on the road, you are required to ride in a single file, and riding in the shoulder is forbidden. Cycling on pedestrian footpaths is also forbidden except for toy bicycles ridden by children under the age of 12. All bicycles must be equipped with a bell and independently-operated brakes on each wheel. A white front light and a red rear light are mandatory when cycling at night. It is legal cycle on any road unless there is a sign prohibiting it. While there is no specific law against cycling on expressways, you are highly advised not to do so for safety reasons; all PLUS expressways (including the Malaysian side of the Second Link from Singapore) and the LATAR expressway linking Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Selangor have signs prohibiting cyclists. ===By boat=== Ferries link the mainlands of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia with several outlying islands. The main ferries foreigners are likely to use are from [[Butterworth]] (for connections with the railway network) to [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] on Penang island, as well as ferries to Kuah in [[Langkawi]] from [[Kuala Perlis]] and [[Kuala Kedah]]. Direct ferries between Penang and Langkawi no longer operate. On the East Coast, ferries operate to the popular dive resort islands, including from [[Mersing]] to [[Pulau Tioman]], from [[Merang]] to [[Pulau Redang]] and from [[Kuala Besut]] to the [[Perhentian Islands]]. There are no ferries between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. ==See== [[File:Penang Malaysia Wat-Chaiya-Mangkalaram-Temple-01.jpg|thumb|Wat Chaiyamangkalaram in [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], [[Penang]]]] [[File:Cameron Highlands Tea Plantation 2012.JPG|thumb|Tea plantations in the [[Cameron Highlands]], [[Pahang]]]] Malaysia is a fascinating country with many faces. It's multi-ethnic and multi-cultural, and its attractions vary from the iconic Petronas Towers in bustling '''[[Kuala Lumpur]]''' to perfect sandy beaches lined with palm trees and dense jungles with orangutangs and tigers. There are various impressive '''national parks'''. Expeditions range from those where you hardly lose sight of the hotel to those where you are fully immersed in the jungle for weeks, with only the guide and yourself. To spot a tiger or wild elephant in its natural habitat you might have to spend more than a few days in the wild, but you'll have no trouble seeing smaller wildlife. '''[[Bako National Park]]''' is the oldest national park in Malaysia and one of the best places to see proboscis monkeys. The vast jungles of '''[[Taman Negara]]''' have become a popular destination for [[ecotourism|ecotourists]], just like the remote but gorgeous '''[[Gunung Mulu National Park]]''', a World Heritage Site famous for its limestone karst formations, stone pinnacles and huge caves. To escape from the muggy tropics, do as the English did and head up to the cool tea plantations of the '''[[Cameron Highlands]]''', the quaint Tudor-style village on '''[[Fraser's Hill]]''' or climb '''[[Mount Kinabalu]]''' in [[Sabah]]. For many people, Malaysia brings pictures of pristine beaches with great diving opportunities to mind - and for good reason. '''[[Sipadan]]''' off the coast of Sabah, and the beautiful '''[[Perhentian]]''' Islands are among the best (and most popular) places. Coastlines in the less industrialized parts of the country, in general, are well worth driving through for their natural beauty and relaxing seaside kampung (villages). Follow the crowds to the postcard perfect sands of the '''[[Langkawi]]''' Islands, where you can have a cocktail on the beach and stay in one of the many resorts. If you're most interested in taking the pulse of a city, don't miss '''[[Kuala Lumpur]]''''s crazy quilt ultra-modern skyline, including the famous Petronas Twin Towers. [[George Town (Malaysia)|'''George Town''']], the capital city of [[Penang]], is known for its great food, colonial architecture, and relatively long-standing and institutionalized Chinese, Peranakan and Indian communities, who share the city with ethnic Malays, Thais and Eurasians. '''[[Ipoh]]''' is a good choice if you enjoy a somewhat slower paced city that features elegant colonial-era buildings from about 100 years ago, and '''[[Malacca]]''' is for those who want to trace the colonial and imperial history of Malaysia several hundred years further back. For a completely different experience, head to '''[[Kota Bharu]]''' to discover a unique conservative Islamic regional culture influenced by [[Thailand]], only a few kilometres away, or visit the diverse cities of [[East Malaysia]], like '''[[Kuching]]''' and '''[[Kota Kinabalu]]'''. Especially when travelling with children, consider visiting one of the country's excellent zoos, such as [[Taiping]] Zoo, [[Kuala Lumpur]]'s Zoo Negara, [[Johor Bahru|Johor]] Zoo and [[Malacca]]'s Zoo. == Do == [[File:Perhentian Beach (106319844).jpg|thumb|A beach on [[Perhentian Islands]], [[Terengganu]].]] [[File:Amphiprion clarkii sipadan.jpg|thumb|A first glance at Sipadan's colourful underwater life]] Malaysia has excellent '''[[scuba diving]]'''. Some of the more popular spots are the islands off the [[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] of peninsular Malaysia ([[Perhentian]], [[Redang]], [[Tioman]] and many more), although the dive season is limited to April to September. However, the most famous dive site &mdash; often ranked among the best in the world &mdash; is [[Sipadan]], off the easternmost tip of [[Sabah|Malaysian Borneo]]. There are many other less well known sites, like [[Layang Layang]]. ===Whitewater Rafting=== You can find tame Grade I to incredibly difficult and dangerous Grade V rapids in Malaysia's many national parks: * Jeram Besu - Grade I-III - [[Pahang]] * [[Telom River]] - Grade V - [[Pahang]] * Kuala Perahu - [[Pahang]] * Lipis River - [[Pahang]] * Anak Jelai River - Grade I-II - [[Pahang]] * Tembeling River - Grade I-II - [[Pahang]] * Sedim River - Grade III-IV - [[Kedah]] * Sungai Selangor - Grade I-III - [[Selangor]] * Kiulu River - Grade II - [[Sabah]] * Padas River - Grade III-IV - Sabah * Sungai Itek (Kampar River) - Grade I-III - [[Perak]] * Sungkai River - Grade I-II - Perak * Singoh River - Grade V - Perak * Endau River - [[Johor]] * Nenggiri River - Grade I-III [[Kelantan]] * [[Kuala Kubu Bahru]], [[Selangor]] ===[[Martial arts]]=== [[File:Men Pencak Silat Match Malaysia vs Vietnam.jpg|thumb|A silat match taking place.]] Malaysia is home to a uniquely Malay style of martial arts known as '''silat'''. Silat tournaments are held between different schools in the country, and the Southeast Asian Games is the premier international tournament in silat, with competitors from the neighbouring countries as well. There is also an equally traditional stylised dance version of silat called ''silat gayung'', which is quite worth seeing if you have the chance. In addition, there are also many kung fu masters among the ethnic Chinese community, and Malaysia is consistently one of the top performers in international wushu competitions. ===Music=== Malaysia is home to a uniquely Malay form of singing called ''dikir barat''. Dikir barat is typically sung by a choir, though there may also be solo parts, and is also either sung ''a capella'', or accompanied only by percussion instruments. Dikir barat competitions are fairly popular among the Malay community, and are frequently broadcast on Malaysian national television. == Buy == ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malaysian ringgit | currencyCode=RM | date=January 2025 | USD=4.3 | EUR=4.6 | GBP=5.6 | SGD=3.5 | AUD=2.8 | IDR=2.8 | THB=1.3 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/myr-malaysian-ringgit XE.com] }} The Malaysian currency is the '''Malaysian ringgit''', abbreviated as '''RM''' (ISO code: '''MYR'''). It is divided into 100 '''sen''' (cents). The ringgit used to be referred to as the dollar and you may see the '$' symbol on older notes. Coins in Malaysia are issued in denominations of RM0.05 (silver), RM0.10 (silver), RM0.20 (silver or gold), and RM0.50 (silver or gold). Banknotes in Malaysia are issued in denominations of RM1 (blue), RM5 (green), RM10 (red), RM20 (orange), RM50 (green/blue) and RM100 (purple). 5 sen coins are mainly given as change in large establishments or supermarkets whereas peddlers and street vendors might be reluctant to accept them. The Singapore and Brunei dollars are also known as ''ringgit'' in Malay, so when near border areas you might want to check to be sure which currency they are quoting the price in. ====ATMs==== Widely available in cities, but do stock up on cash if heading out into the smaller islands or the jungle. Many ATMs, especially those of local banks, won't charge a fee for withdrawals in Malaysia (e.g. CIMB) — one of the upsides of Islamic banking. However, in 2024, Euronet acquired MEPS and is now the largest non-bank ATM provider in Malaysia. They are well known for their high fees and bad customer experience. Try to avoid them! Many ATMs (like Euronet) will offer to do the currency conversion for you, which is disadvantageous (often involving a markup of 4–14%) — this is how they make money. So, '''always decline [[Money#Dynamic currency conversion|currency conversion]]''' to your home currency! Due to fraud risk, many Malaysian ATMs do not allow you to withdraw using foreign debit cards. If your card is rejected, try another ATM. If you call your bank or credit company, they are often not aware of what happened because the transaction is declined by the Malaysia bank. Make sure to bring cash or other forms of money in case your debit card is rejected. ====Credit cards==== They can be used in most shops, restaurants and hotels, although '''skimming''' can be a problem in dodgier outlets. For credit card usage, make sure your credit/debit card is chip based as most merchants no longer accept '''magnetic strips''' based cards. ====Currency exchange==== Counters can easily found in major shopping areas and have a better exchange rate than in banks and airports. Be sure to say the amount you wish to exchange and ask for the 'best quote' as rates displayed on the board are often negotiable, especially for larger amounts. Large foreign banknotes, such as €500, are almost impossible to change for a good rate in some areas, especially in Sabah or Sarawak, where the banks offer a much lower rate comparing to the one you'd get if changing a banknote of smaller amount. Some money exchangers in Kota Kinabalu or Kuching even may refuse your business if you have large foreign banknotes, so the best option is to bring smaller notes unless you are willing to shop around. '''Foreign currencies''' are ''not'' generally accepted as is. The major exception is Singapore dollars, which may be accepted in Johor Bahru, but at a steep penalty. They're also accepted by KTMB and toll roads, but at an incredibly unfavorable 1:1 exchange rate, an anomaly dating back to the 1970s when the ringgit was interchangeable with the Singapore dollar. ====Banking==== Banks in Malaysia do handle international transactions. These ranges from a nominal fee if you are an account holder to a slightly more expensive amount if you are only walking in to use a certain service. British banks HSBC and Standard Chartered, and Singaporean bank UOB have a presence in Malaysia. Citibank has exited the Malaysian retail banking market, with all its retail banking assets having been taken over by UOB. Local banking giants are Maybank, RHB, Hong Leong Bank, Public Bank & CIMB Bank, & they are a very good alternative to the earlier mentioned banks, especially in terms of pricing, local knowledge & presence as well as international services available e.g. money transfers. For any enquiries and transactions, get a number, sit down and wait for your turn to be served. (There is no need to queue while you wait in air-conditioned comfort!) Banks are open Monday-Friday from 9:30AM-4PM and selected banks are open Saturday 9:30AM–11:30AM except on the first and third Saturdays of each month. In the states of Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, they are open Sunday to Thursday 9:30AM–4PM. === Costs === Most Western visitors will find Malaysia quite cheap, although it is noticeably more expensive than neighbouring Indonesia. You can live in hostel dorms and feast on hawker food for less than RM50 per day, but you'll wish to double this for comfort, particularly if travelling in more expensive East Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is also generally more expensive than the rest of the country. At the other end of the spectrum, luxury hotels and air fares are also quite affordable, with even the fanciest 5-star hotels costing less than RM400/night. [[File:Bukit bintang from kl monorail 2009.jpg|thumb|''Bukit Bintang'', a popular shopping area in [[Kuala Lumpur]]]] ===Tipping=== Tipping is not customary in Malaysia. A service charge of 10% is included in total bill in most air conditioned restaurants, but otherwise, you are not expected to pay anything more than what is stated in the bill. Most expensive restaurants, bars and hotels may indicate prices in the form of RM19++ ("plus plus"), meaning that sales tax (6%) and service charge (10%) will be added to the bill. Hotel tax of 5% may also be added to this. === Shopping === [[Kuala Lumpur]] is a shopping mecca for clothes, electronics, watches and computer goods, with very competitive prices by any standard. Local Malaysian brands include Royal Selangor pewter (thanks to KL's tin-mining heritage), British India and Eilanto. Traditional Malaysian fabrics (''batik'') are a popular souvenir. The cheapest place to easily buy ethnic souvenirs (especially wood-based) is in [[Kuching]], East Malaysia, and the most expensive place is in the major, posh [[Kuala Lumpur]] shopping centres. In fact, Malaysia has over 1000 shopping complexes, but many, especially outside the capital, have low occupancy due to oversupply. In general shops are open 10:30AM–9:30/10PM in the large cities. They open and close for business earlier in the smaller towns and rural areas. Some shops may also be closed on certain days, such as in [[Malacca]] where many shops and restaurants close on Tuesday. For great second-hand shopping from locals try [https://www.carousell.com.my/ Carousell] or [https://www.mudah.my/ Mudah.my]. If you buy too much while shopping in Malaysia (which is quite easy to do), surface postage rates are very reasonable. Excess luggage at the airport is still high but not as high as in many other countries. Check first with your airline. == Eat == [[File:Nasi Lemak dengan Chili Nasi Lemak dan Sotong Pedas, di Penang Summer Restaurant.jpg|thumb|''Nasi lemak'' coconut rice with ''sotong pedas'' (spicy squid), ''sambal'' chili paste, boiled egg, slices of cucumber, ''ikan bilis'' fried anchovies and peanuts served at a restaurant in Penang]] {{main|Cuisine of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei}} The crossroads of Malay, Chinese and [[Indian cuisine]], Malaysia is an excellent place to eat (''makan'' in Malay). Look out for regional specialities and Nyonya (Peranakan) cuisine, the fusion between Malay and [[Chinese cuisine|Chinese cooking]]. There is even unique Eurasian cooking to be found in the Portuguese Settlement in Malacca, the heartland of the Portuguese Eurasian community. Malaysians are very proud of their cooking and most towns or even villages have their own delicious specialities such as [[Penang]] ''char kway teow'', [[Kajang]] satay, [[Ipoh]] bean sprout chicken, [[Sarawak]] ''laksa'', [[Kelantan]]ese ''nasi dagang'' and [[Sabah]]an ''hinava''. Most eateries rely on word of mouth for advertising and are frequently located in the most inconvenient, out-of-the-way places, so you might want to try asking the locals for their personal recommendations. If you intend to travel around Malaysia trying out the local food, don't be fooled by the names. Sometimes two entirely different dishes from different parts of the country can be known by the same name. For example, ''laksa'' refers to completely different noodle dishes in [[Penang]] and [[Sarawak]]. Generally, you can eat pretty much anywhere in Malaysia. Food outlets are comparatively clean – the only thing you might avoid when you frequent the street or hawker stalls is ice for your drinks, since the blocks of ice used there might not be up to your hygienic standards. In actual restaurants this is not a problem. Also you might want to avoid ordering water from hawker stalls or the ''mamak'' restaurants as you may be served unboiled tap water. Cheaper places often do not display prices; most will charge tourists honestly, but check prices before ordering to make sure. Eating habits run the gamut, but most foods are eaten by '''fork and spoon''': push and cut with the fork in the left hand, and eat with the spoon in the right. As eating is a favourite 'pastime' of Malaysians, the majority are adept at using chopsticks, regardless of background. Noodles and Chinese dishes typically come with these, while Malay and Indian food is traditionally eaten by hand, though a fork and spoon are often used to eat Malay and Indian food in restaurants and can be requested if not provided. If eating by hand, '''always use only your right hand''' to handle the food, as Malays and Indians traditionally use their left hand to handle dirty things. When eating with chopsticks at Chinese restaurants, take note of the usual etiquette and most importantly, ''do not'' stick your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice. This is reminiscent of incense sticks burning at the temple and has connotations of wishing death on those around you. If eating in a group, serving dishes are always shared, but you'll get your own bowl of rice and soup. === Where to eat === [[File:Beaufort Sabah KedaiKopi-01.jpg|thumb|The interior of a kedai kopi near the railway station in [[Beaufort (Sabah)|Beaufort, Sabah]]]] The cheapest places to eat are '''hawker stalls''' and '''coffeeshops''', known as ''kedai kopi'' in Malay or ''kopitiam'' in Hokkien. These shops sell, besides coffee, many other types of food and drinks. Particularly popular and tasty are '''''mamak''''' stalls, run by Indian Muslims and serving up localized Indian fare like ''roti canai''. Most hawker stalls stay open till late and some even operate on shifts so you can find the same stall offering different food at different points throughout the day. You can also do take away from any stall: just ask for ''bungkus'' (Malay) or ''ta pao'' (Cantonese). A hawker meal will rarely cost you over RM5. Hygiene standards in Malaysia are generally good by Southeast Asian standards, and much better than in the Indian subcontinent. Just be observant, and generally speaking, if a stall is patronised by locals, it should be safe to eat there. One step up on the scale is the '''''kedai makanan''''' or the more Western-style '''''restoran'''''. A type to look out for is the '''''nasi kandar''''' restaurant, which originated in [[Penang]] but now can be found in virtually every Malaysian city, with a wide variety of Indian-style curries and toppings to ladle on top of your rice. The Malay answer to nasi kandar is known as '''''nasi campur''''', of which a subtype is '''''nasi padang''''', originating among the Minangkabau people from [[Padang]] in what is today [[Indonesia]]. The Chinese equivalent is known as '''economy rice''' or '''mixed rice''', or by its Cantonese name '''''chap fan''''' (雜飯). However, unlike nasi kandar or nasi campur, Chinese-style economy rice is typically ''not'' halal. '''Seafood restaurants''' (''makanan laut'') are comparatively pricey but still an excellent value by most standards; do check prices before ordering though. Local prawns are gigantic, Chinese-style steamed fish is a treat and crab served with sticky chilli sauce is particularly popular. Last but not least, some less adventurous options. '''Food courts''' in shopping malls are a good way to sample local delicacies in air-conditioned comfort, paying only a small premium over hawker prices. And yes, you can also find McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut and the usual suspects plus imitators throughout Malaysia. === Dietary restrictions === [[File:Su Xin Vegetarian Restaurant.jpg|thumb|A vegetarian restaurant in [[Johor Bahru]], [[Johor]].]] Being a Muslim-majority country, finding '''halal''' food in Malaysia is easy, but most Chinese stalls and restaurants, as well as those serving some indigenous ethnic groups of East Malaysia such as the Iban and Kadazan, are ''not'' halal. Ask if in doubt. Meals at Malay restaurants and Western fast food restaurants like McDonald's, Kentucky Fried Chicken and Pizza Hut are halal. Restaurants at major hotels are not certified 'Halal' as they serve alcohol as well, but with the exception of Chinese restaurants, they generally don't serve pork. Local Muslims will eat at Western, Chinese and Indian eateries if there is a halal sign on the walls. Most of the restaurants tend to display their halal certification or halal sign on their places. Halal certification is awarded and enforced by a government agency, usually JAKIM. There are ''no'' '''kosher''' establishments in Malaysia, so kosher-observant Jewish visitors will have to bring their own food with them and supplement it with fresh fruit. Kosher grocery stores and restaurants can be found in neighbouring [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], the [[Philippines]] and [[Vietnam]], so you might want to stop in one of those countries to stock up before entering Malaysia. '''Vegetarianism''' is well-understood by the Chinese and Indian communities (not so by the Muslim Malays and other indigenous minorities) and many restaurants or hawker stalls will be able to come up with something on request (DO state "no meat, no fish, no seafood – ASK for vegetables and/or eggs ONLY"), but don't rely entirely on menu descriptions: innocuous-seeming dishes like "fried vegetables" etc. will often contain shrimp paste (''belacan'', commonly used in Malay and spicy Chinese dishes), fish sauce, etc. or even pork bits or lard in non-halal Chinese restaurants, so if in doubt, ask. Indian restaurants usually have very good vegetarian selections – the ''roti'' (Indian flat bread – any kind; including roti canai, roti naan, capati, tosai) are good choices, and DO insist on being given ''dhal'' (lentil-based curry dip) lest you'll be given a fish curry dip. Purely vegetarian Chinese Buddhist restaurants (often serving remarkable "mock meat" products made from tofu, gluten etc.) are quite easy to find in big urban areas with a large ethnic Chinese population. Getting vegetarian food in rural areas, especially those near fishing villages or in Muslim/Malay-dominated regions, may be more difficult, but learning some basic Malay vocabulary will go a long way to help you get your message across – see the [[Malay phrasebook#Eating|Malay phrasebook]]. Upmarket Western restaurants, such as those serving Italian cuisine, will normally have some good vegetarian options. Be careful about Chinese bakery items too, as many seemingly vegetarian items use pork lard to make the pastry. '''Veganism''' is rarely understood in this part of the world and is largely mistaken as a synonym for vegetarianism. The safest bet for a vegan is to patronize a Chinese Buddhist vegetarian restaurant, since Chinese cuisine traditionally does not use dairy products. However, check to ensure that your dish does not contain eggs. And if you're still feeling uneasy or unsure, do not hesitate to ask. == Drink == [[File:Cheng Ho Tea House.JPG|thumb|A tea house in [[Melaka]].]] Malaysians like both coffee (''kopi'') and tea (''teh''), especially the national drink ''teh tarik'' ("pulled tea"), made by the ''Mamak'' (Indian Muslim) community, and named after the theatrical 'pulling' motion used to pour it. By default, both will be served hot, sweet and with a dose of condensed milk; request ''teh o'' to skip the milk, ''teh ais'' for iced milky tea, or ''teh o ais'' for iced milkless tea. Drinking with no sugar at all is considered odd, but asking for ''kurang manis'' (less sugar) will ease the pain. However, if you really want no sugar at all, you can try asking for "teh kosong." Malaysia produces its own tea, but little of it is exported except to neighbouring Singapore due to high domestic demand, so be sure to try some locally-grown tea when you are here. BOH, with its plantations in [[Cameron Highlands]], is Malaysia's largest tea brand. Another peculiar local favourite is the kopi tongkat ali ginseng, a mixture of coffee, a local aphrodisiacal root, and ginseng served with condensed milk that's touted as an alternative to viagra and red bull combined and is usually advertised with a picture of a bed broken in half. Other popular nonalcoholic options include the chocolate drink Milo and lime juice (''limau''). Freshly made fruit juices are also widely available, as well as a wide range of canned drinks (some familiar to many foreigners, some less so). There is also a local drink comprised of white soya milk and black grass jelly (''cincau'') called ''soya cincau''. It can be ordered at most hawker centres and local roadside cafes (''kedai kopi/kopitiam''). === Alcohol === [[Image:Gawai.JPG|thumb|Tuak is widely consumed during Gawai Dayak festival and Christmas Day.]] Although alcohol consumption is illegal for Muslims in Malaysia, licensed venues are permitted to sell alcohol to non-Muslims. With the exception of tax-free islands ([[Labuan]], [[Langkawi]], [[Tioman]]) and duty free shops (for example in [[Johor Bahru]]), prices are comparatively high, with a can of beer costing RM7.50 or more even in supermarkets or 7-Eleven stores. However, in East Malaysia, smuggled liquors are widely available. The legal drinking age in Malaysia is 21. In East Malaysia, particularly [[Sarawak]], ''tuak'' is a common affair for any celebration or festivals such as Gawai Dayak and Christmas Day. ''Tuak'' is made from fermented rice to which sugar, honey or other various condiments are sometimes added. It is normally served lukewarm without ice. Visitors can choose from 'strong' flavour of tuak (which is normally fermented for years), or 'mild' flavour (which is sometimes prepared only a week or even a day before). In [[Sabah]], cheap liquors are very widely available at most supermarkets and mini markets in the state. Other alcoholic drinks such as beer and whisky are also widely available. On the other hand, ''tuak'' in [[Kelantan]] also can be considered as a liquor since that it contains a trace amount of fermented ''nipah'' or sap juice. The alcohol content in Kelantan ''tuak'' can easily reach 50% after 3 days from the time it was extracted. [[File:Tapai peuyeum Pasar Baru.JPG|thumb|Cassava tapai is shown in plastic bags in the foreground]] ''Tapai'' consists of cassava (less often, rice) that is fermented and eaten as a food (though the liquid in the bottom can also be drunk). As it is commonly eaten during Hari Raya Puasa, the major Muslim holiday celebrating the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, it is interesting that Islamic legal authorities associated with the Islamist opposition Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) have given Muslims a special dispensation from laws against consuming alcohol, in the case of tapai. ===Water safety=== There are differences of opinion on the safety of Malaysian tap water. See [[#Stay healthy]]. == Sleep == Malaysia has ample affordable accommodations in all of its cities and towns, with full range from budget until luxury ones. Service charges and taxes are not yet part of the advertised price so be sure to add 16% to the listed price. Hotels and hostels are required to charge a '''tourism tax''' on international visitors: RM10 per room per night, which may not be included in the advertised rates. ===Budget=== Budget hotels and youth [[hostels]] are available in most cities and around most tourist destinations. As with most budget accommodations, some are more reliable than others. Be cautious when selecting budget accommodation to avoid places that house illegal vice activities. Larger cities will have YMCAs that are safe bets. Another noticeable budget hotel chain is [http://www.tunehotels.com Tune Hotels,] an affiliate of the budget airline, Air Asia. They are expanding and have hotels at numerous locations throughout the country ===Mid-range=== Mid-range hotels are readily available just about anywhere. Prices of 3–4 star hotels are upwards from RM100 and are generally reliable in terms of quality. ===Splurge=== Malaysia is home to some of the most affordable 5-star hotels, service apartments, and resorts in the world. They are found in larger cities like Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching and also in some coastal towns and areas. Also, almost all islands have upscale resorts and spas for the wealthy traveller. == Learn == Malaysia's universities are generally well-regarded and draw exchange students from near and far. Among Malaysia's universities, the undisputed most prestigious one is the '''[https://www.um.edu.my University of Malaya]''' (UM), located in Kuala Lumpur. In addition, several foreign universities have established campuses in Malaysia. == Work == Obtaining a working visa takes some effort. The easiest way to work in Malaysia is probably to work for an overseas company and get posted to Malaysia. The [https://www.imi.gov.my/ Malaysian Immigration Department website] has basic advice. In order to obtain a work permit, you need to have an offer from your future employer who will have to do the paperwork for you. It's very expensive and comes with many restrictions if a company wants to hire a foreigner and as such next to impossible. As stated above, a feasible way is to get transferred. Finding a job is otherwise unlikely unless you are married to a local and even then it remains difficult. Working days in [[Kelantan]], [[Terengganu]] and [[Kedah]] are from Sunday to Thursday, with Fridays and Saturdays being weekend holidays, similar to most Middle Eastern countries in alignment with Friday prayers of Muslims. The other states observe the normal weekend in the rest of the world. [[Johor]] adopts the Friday-Saturday weekend, though businesses may still stick to the normal week cycle to accommodate Singaporean practices. == Stay safe == {{infobox|Emergency numbers|Central emergency number '''999'''}} Though the crime rate is higher than in neighbouring Singapore, Malaysia is generally a safe country for visitors. Crimes towards tourists are usually restricted to bag-snatching, pickpocketing and petty theft. It is important to keep a close eye on valuable items. Theft is more common in crowded places, such as markets and on public transport. Generally, if you avoid deserted areas, get back to your hotel before midnight and use your common sense, you're unlikely to be assaulted. Homosexuality is a crime and gay bars may be raided by police; gay and lesbian tourists should be discreet and avoid any public displays of affection. ===Crime=== {{Cautionbox|Malaysia treats '''drug offences''' severely. With limited exceptions, the '''death penalty''' is possible for those convicted of trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting more than 15 g of heroin, 30 g of morphine, 30 g of cocaine, 500 g of cannabis, 200 g of cannabis resin and 1.2 kg of opium, and possession of these quantities is all that is needed for you to be convicted. If the death penalty is not imposed, lengthy imprisonment and mandatory whipping is still expected. Even if a person suspected of drug trafficking is acquitted, Malaysian authorities can still detain that person without any charges for 2 years. Unauthorised consumption can result in up to 10 years' jail, or a heavy fine, or both. You can be charged for unauthorised consumption as long as traces of illicit drugs are found in your system, even if you can prove that they were consumed outside the country and you can be charged for trafficking as long as drugs are found in bags that are in your possession or in your room, even if they aren't yours and regardless of whether you're aware of them - therefore be vigilant of your possessions.|lastedit=permanent}} There have been some reports of [[pickpockets]] and snatch-and-run thieves in some of the major cities like [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Petaling Jaya]] and [[Johor Bahru]]. As a general precaution, never carry your bags on the side facing the road and always walk facing the oncoming traffic. Additionally, walk a few feet deeper away from the roads. Women travellers should take extra precautions at night. Johor Bahru is known for having a relatively higher crime rate compared to the rest of Malaysia, and armed robberies and snatch thefts could happen at night in run-down areas of the city. Travel documents and valuables are best deposited in a hotel safe. In Malaysia, some crimes are punished with caning, known locally as whipping. Being convicted of rape, vandalism, illegal entry, bribery, overstaying your visa, and certain other crimes could get you caned. '''This is no slap on the wrist!''' Strokes from the thick rattan cane are ''very painful'', will take some time to heal and probably leave you with a permanent scar. Credit card fraud is a growing problem in this country, especially if you order in an on-line store during your stay. Use credit cards only in reputable shops. Look for online reviews but recognise that even these can be astroturfed to provide a higher average review than the company deserves. ===Corruption=== While not as bad as the likes of Thailand, Vietnam or Indonesia, corruption remains a significant issue in Malaysia. Traffic police have been known to pull over motorists to demand bribes of RM100-200; this tends to happen somewhat more often to those driving cars with Singapore licence plates. Nevertheless, there have been some crackdowns on this, and bribery is punishable by up to 20 years in jail. Anyone who tries to bribe public officials may be arrested on the spot and placed in a lock-up overnight to be charged for the offence in the morning. If this happens on a Friday or on eve of public holidays, you will find yourself spending a few nights in the lock-up as the courts are only open Monday to Friday. Do not let this dissuade you from requesting help — generally Malaysian police are helpful to tourists. Customs and immigration officers are comparatively cleaner than other Southeast Asian countries, though there have been isolated cases where tourists are demanded bribes from immigration officials. Do check your passport before driving off when entering by land from the Singapore border though, as immigration officers have been known to "forget" to stamp people in, and you will be subject to fines of several thousand ringgit for illegal entry when you try to leave Malaysia if your passport was not stamped on entry. * {{listing | name=Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) | alt=Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia(SPRM) | url=https://www.sprm.gov.my/ | email=info@sprm.gov.my | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1800-88-6000 | fax=+603-8870-0934 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6741935 | lastedit=2025-03-11 | content=The main anti-corruption agency for Malaysia. A list of MACC branches can be found [https://www.sprm.gov.my/index.php?id=21&page_id=75&articleid=430 here]. }} ===Traffic safety=== When on foot, be careful when crossing the street. Vehicles will often ignore pedestrian (zebra) crossings. In addition, reports of road rage during accidents are still common, so if you are involved in an accident be very careful when negotiating or dial 999 for help. ===Other=== Public demonstrations are uncommon in Malaysia due to police crackdowns. Should one occur it may be dealt with in a heavy-handed manner, so '''avoid them at all costs'''. It is generally not allowed for non-Muslims or non-Sunnis to proselytize. In particular, attempting to persuade Muslims to convert out of their religion is illegal, and if you are caught doing this, you will be expelled from the country or even face criminal responsibilities. ===Natural disasters=== Peninsular Malaysia is largely free from [[earthquakes]] as there are no nearby faultlines, though tremors can occasionally be felt in the upper storeys of tall buildings when a major quake occurs in neighbouring Indonesia. East Malaysia, on the other hand, especially the area around Mount Kinabalu, does experience occasional earthquakes (such as the fatal one occurring in 2015). [[Cyclones|Typhoons]] are also exceedingly rare, though one hit the southern part of [[Johor]] in 2001. However, the Nov-Jan monsoon season often results in flooding due to torrential rains, and landslides are known to occur, most notably on the East Coast. [[Tsunamis]] are a rare occurrence, though Penang and a few islands on the north of the West Coast were hit by the infamous tsunami in 2004. == Stay healthy == There are differences of opinion about whether and to what degree '''[[tap water]]''' is safe to drink. It is treated and monitored, but the condition of the pipes is not always reliable. Therefore, you may want to boil or filter it first just to be on the safe side, as most locals do. You can also buy bottled water, which is very inexpensive. Ice in drinks might be made from tap water, but nowadays, most restaurants and even roadside stalls use the cylindrical variety with a hollow tube down the middle that are mass-produced at ice factories and are safer to consume. Heat exhaustion is rare, but do consume lots of fluids, use a hat and sunscreen and shower often! Peninsular Malaysia is largely [[malaria]]-free, but there is a significant risk in Borneo especially in inland and rural areas. [[Dengue fever]] occurs throughout Malaysia in both urban and rural areas, and can be avoided only by preventing [[mosquito]] bites. The mosquito that transmits dengue feeds throughout the daytime, and is most active at dawn and dusk. If you experience a sudden fever with aches and lethargy, seek medical attention immediately. Aspirin and ibuprofen should not be used until dengue fever has been ruled out. Mosquito repellents (''ubat nyamuk'') are widely available. Be careful with mosquito coils, which can easily start fires: set them on a plate or other non-flammable surface and extinguish them before going to sleep. Haze from burning vegetation in neighbouring Indonesia may come and go without warning from the months of May to August so travellers with respiratory ailments should come prepared. Most public washrooms charge a small fee (generally between RM0.20-RM2.00, usually depending on the standard of the facilities), so keep some loose change to hand. If the condition of the sitting toilets is questionable, use the squatting toilets instead - both are usually available, and some believe that the latter are more hygienic and (if you can get used to them) are just as easy to use as sitting toilets. ===Healthcare=== [[File:Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital.JPG|thumb|Public hospital in [[Kuantan]], [[Pahang]]]] The standard of healthcare in Malaysia is generally high, and Malaysia is rapidly emerging as a popular destination for medical tourism, with treatment costs in general far cheaper than in neighbouring Singapore and Western countries. Almost all Malaysian doctors are able to speak English fluently, while most other medical staff are able to converse in at least basic English. Malaysia has a public and private health care system. Health services are adequate in large cities, with English-speaking doctors. Some staff have been trained abroad. In the private sector in particular, the medical staff is often made up of well-trained professionals. Outside urban areas, access to health services and the quality of care vary. Government healthcare facilities are cheap but good, though they tend to be understaffed and consequently, waiting times are long. Due to the shorter waiting times and sometimes hotel-like levels of comfort, most expatriates and visitors prefer to seek out private medical care. Dental services are readily available and prices are often lower than in western countries. However, root canal treatment is considerably more expensive than in western countries, as it is only performed by dental surgeons and not by ordinary dentists. Mental health services are available at least in the capital. In the rest of the country, they may not be available very much. Pharmacies can be found in larger shopping centres and painkillers are available in almost every shop. Prescription medicines may not be available from pharmacies at any time, but only when a pharmacist is present. He or she may be there for part of the day, usually on weekdays. When visiting a doctor, medicines are often available directly from the doctor's surgery or from the hospital pharmacy. When travelling to Malaysia, you should take out comprehensive travel insurance. Doctors and hospitals usually require payment in advance, especially for foreigners. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Keep all receipts and certificates you receive. You can apply for reimbursement afterwards from your insurance company. Services in the private sector are more expensive than in the public sector. You should check the details on the spot. Be vigilant when using private medical services. Doctors may prescribe expensive treatments, tests and medicines that are unnecessary. This is especially true for tourists. Malaysia's largest private healthcare groups are '''[https://www.parkwaypantai.com Parkway Pantai]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', which operates the well-known Gleaneagles and Pantai hospital chains, and '''[http://www.kpjhealth.com.my KPJ Healthcare]'''. Private medical costs can be high and having [[travel insurance]] is a very good idea. Public hospitals and most private hospitals offer 24-hour on-call medical services. In some Malaysian tourist resorts, you can ask for a doctor at the hotel reception. Pressure chamber treatment is available in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kuantan, Lumut, Ipoh, Sabah and Labuan. There is limited availability of rental equipment at hospitals. In most cases, assistive devices have to be purchased. ===Food=== While in general Malaysian food is not unhealthy, the fact that eateries and cafés add unnecessary amounts of sugar to drinks and snacks can be a problem. Also, the sheer amount of these places will always give you an opportunity to have an unhealthy snack or drink, no matter where you are. Be aware, and for example try to have your drinks without sugar, especially fruit shakes, which should come sweet naturally. == Respect == {{infobox|What's in a name?|*Malaysian '''Malay''' names are usually given name + ''bin'' or ''binti'' (son/daughter) + father's name. ''Mohammed bin Abdullah'' would usually be called Mohammed by his friends, and Mr. Mohammed for business. Sometimes, the person's given name appears after the Mohammed or Abdul (example: ''Mohammed Faizal bin Abdul Nasser'') so, in such a case, he would usually be addressed as Mr. Faizal.<br /> *'''Chinese''' place their family name first, so ''Tan Ah Heng'' is Mr Tan for business and Ah Heng to his friends. Many have Western names, so he may also be known as ''John Tan''.<br> *'''Indian''' names are complex, but the south Indian (Tamil) names usually found in Malaysia have two patterns: either given name + ''a/l'' or ''a/p'' (''anak lelaki'' (son of)/''anak perempuan'' (daughter of)) + father's name, or father's initial + given name. Given names are often long and may be abbreviated, so ''Thirumurugan a/l Govindasamy'' may just be addressed as Thiru by his friends and Mr Thiru for business.<br /> *'''Other ethnic minorities''', such as the Iban and Kadazan have their own naming conventions. The foolproof method, therefore, is to ''ask'' how the person would like to be addressed.}} When entering a home or a place of worship, always take off your shoes (this is often required at hostels too). Also, never eat with your left hand or give a gift with your left hand, and never point with your forefinger (you may use a closed fist with the thumb instead). Do not point with your feet or touch a person's head either. Swastikas are commonly seen in Hindu and Buddhist temples, and are regarded as a religious symbol by these communities. They emphatically do '''not''' represent Nazism or anti-Semitism. ===Politics=== As in many countries, it is best not to criticise the government or the Malaysian royal families as a visitor. You may hear Malaysians criticise their own government, but you do not need to take sides; just listen and feel free to talk about your feelings about your own government. The '''bumiputera''' policy (laws granting ethnic Malays special rights not granted to the other races) is a very polarising and sensitive issue, and best avoided as a conversation topic with Malays. Another sensitive issue to be aware of is Israel: Malaysia is one of several countries that do not recognize Israel, and Malaysian Muslims are ardent in their support for Palestine. In addition, many Malaysians associate Jews in general with Israel or otherwise have prejudices against Jews; however, these feelings do not necessarily extend to individual Jewish people, and violence against Jewish visitors is unlikely. ===Dress=== It is advisable to dress respectfully, particularly in rural areas (wearing trousers or a long skirt, not shorts and covering your shoulders is recommended but not essential). In more cosmopolitan cities such as Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Malacca, Ipoh and Johor Bahru, as well as East Malaysian states (Sabah and Sarawak) attitudes are more liberal. Women are not legally required to wear the hijab, known locally as the ''tudung'', except when entering mosques, where it is required for both Muslims and non-Muslims. ===Sexuality=== As a predominantly Muslim country, Malaysia tends to be conservative about sexuality. Public showing of affection in the more diverse, larger cities is tolerated but might invite unnecessary attention from the public. In more rural areas and in very conservative states like [[Kelantan]] and [[Terengganu]] on the East Coast of the Peninsula it is frowned upon and is best avoided. '''Don't kiss your partner in public'''; you'll inflame local sensibilities. Big cities like Kuala Lumpur have a fairly active gay scene and gay bashing is rarely heard of. However, same-sex relationships are a taboo subject and "carnal intercourse against the order of nature" is punished by up to 20 years jail and whipping (men only) under colonial era laws not usually enforced against consenting adult heterosexuals. Different states may also impose '''consecutive''' sharia law punishments of up to 3 years and six lashes against Muslims of all genders. ==Cope== ===Electricity=== Malaysian sockets are designed for the 3-pin rectangular-pronged British plug. Electricity is delivered at 240 V, 50 Hz. ===Newspapers=== Malaysia's main Malay newspapers are ''[http://www.bharian.com.my Berita Harian]'' and ''[http://www.utusan.com.my Utusan Malaysia]''. There are also numerous Chinese newspapers, the most popular ones being the ''[http://www.chinapress.com.my China Press]'' (中國報), ''[http://www.enanyang.my Nanyang Siang Pau]'' (南洋商報) and ''[http://www.sinchew.com.my Sin Chew Daily]'' (星洲日報), as well as several Tamil newspapers. Malaysia's English-language paper of record is the '''''[https://www.nst.com.my New Straits Times]''''', a splinter from the Singaporean Straits Times, which is available at most hotels and newsstands. '''''[https://www.thestar.com.my The Star]''''' and '''''[https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/ Free Malaysia Today]''''', an English-Malay bilingual online newspaper, are also available. ==Connect== === Internet === Broadband Internet is available for free in most accommodations and some restaurants, especially fast-food outlets and shopping malls, including Starbucks and Coffeebean, some McDonald's and Subway. However, not every restaurant has WiFi, especially smaller ones. Southasian restaurants have WiFi more often. Cybercafés are a thing of the past, since nowadays most people have mobile data. === Mobile and data === Malaysia was one of the first countries in the world to offer 4G connectivity. There are a lot of providers, which usually offer good coverage. The easiest SIM to get is U-mobile, from RM10, with ok-ish coverage and a 30-day package of "unlimited" or 40GB internet for RM35 or RM25 per month respectively (2025). SIMs are available in every 7-11 and in some other places. There are also other SIM cards (RM10) available in some cheaper malls and Pakistani places which have 50GB packages for RM18. If you travel to Singapore or other neighboring countries, you can buy a 14-day "unlimited" package for RM35 (Feb 2024), which works in all of them including Malaysia. Other providers have better coverage but don't offer worthwhile roaming options. === Telephone numbers === The country code for Malaysia is +60. [[File:Sandakan Sabah Public-Phone-Booths-01.jpg|thumb|Phone booths in Sabah]] [[Telephone service|To call]] a Malaysian number from abroad * '''from overseas except Singapore''' dial the international access code, the country code for Malaysia, the area or mobile operator code without the "0", and then the phone number (for 123-4567 in Kuala Lumpur, in Wikivoyage written as +60 3 123-4567, dial {{nowrap|+60 3 123 45467);}} * '''from Singapore''', dial 02, the area or mobile operator code with the "0", and then the phone number {{nowrap|(02 03 123 45467).}} To domestically call a Malaysian number, * from a mobile phone or a landline phone '''outside the local area''', dial the area or mobile operator code, including the leading "0", followed by the phone number (03 123 4567), * from '''within the local area''' just dial the phone number without any code; '''from mobile phones''', you can always include the area or operator code, although it is unnecessary between phones with the same operator (where you are is immaterial with mobile phones). '''To call a foreign number''' not in Singapore from Malaysia, use the international dialling prefix '''00''' (on mobile phones: "+"). For Singapore, instead use the pseudo area code 02 and leave out the international prefix and country code. On the Maxis network, take advantage of 50% IDD rates on international calls via IDD132. This doesn't require any registration: just dial "132" prior to the "00" (don't use "+"). Malaysia also has four '''mobile telephone''' service providers, [http://www.maxis.com.my Maxis], [http://www.digi.com.my DiGi], [http://www.celcom.com.my Celcom], and [http://www.u.com.my U Mobile] which utilise codes '''012''', '''013''', '''014''', '''016''', '''017''', '''018''', '''019''', used like area codes. Network connection in Malaysia is excellent. Mobile number portability has been implemented, meaning a code like 012 that traditionally belonged to Maxis, can now be a DiGi subscriber. Mobile networks utilize the GSM 900 and 1800 systems. 3G (WCDMA), EDGE and HSPDA networks are available in larger towns. International roaming onto these networks is possible if your operator allows it. '''Prepaid SIM cards''' for sale at airports are pretty affordable; a one-week SIM card with a good amount of data might cost about RM20-30 (2019). See also [[#SIM cards|SIM cards]] above. Malaysian '''landline telephone numbers''' have either seven or eight digits. The country is divided into areas which have been assigned two- or three-digit area codes, which have to be dialled when calling from outside the area (or from a mobile phone). The area codes are: * '''03''' — Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor (all are Klang Valley), Pahang (Genting Highlands only) * '''04''' — Kedah, Penang, Perlis * '''05''' — Perak, Pahang (Cameron Highlands only) * '''06''' — Malacca, Johor (Muar district only), Negeri Sembilan * '''07''' — Johor (all districts except for Muar) * '''082''' — Sarawak (Kuching and Samarahan districts) * '''083''' — Sarawak (Sri Aman and Betong districts) * '''084''' — Sarawak (Sarikei, Sibu and west Kapit districts) * '''085''' — Sarawak (Miri and Limbang districts) * '''086''' — Sarawak (Bintulu districts and Belaga) * '''087''' — Sabah (Interior Division), Labuan * '''088''' — Sabah (West Coast and Kudat Division) * '''089''' — Sabah (Sandakan and Tawau Division) * '''09''' — Kelantan, Pahang (all districts except Genting Highlands), Terengganu === Postal services === [[File:Pos Malaysia Arau Post Office.jpg|thumb|Post office in [[Arau]], [[Perlis]]]] Postage stamps for postcards internationally is just 0,9 RM (as of February 2024) Many international courier services, such as Fedex, DHL and UPS, are available in towns and cities, but the main postal service provider is [http://www.pos.com.my Pos Malaysia] which reliably provides postal services to most countries in the world. Postage rates in Malaysia are cheap. Much cheaper than Thailand, Singapore or Vietnam, and surface post is available as well. The mail is reliable and trustworthy. When posting a parcel, do not seal the box. This is to allow for inspection in case illegal items are posted this way (ask for help at the post office if needed). A local alternative to the international courier companies mentioned above is the Pos Laju, which provides just as reliable a service at a fraction of the cost! Non-urgent letters and postcards can be dropped in postboxes inside post offices or red postboxes found outside post offices and along main roads. If there are two slots in a postbox use the one that says "lain lain" for international post. Post offices are open M–Sa 8AM–5PM except public holidays, although a few in Klang Valley stay open until 10PM. In the states of Kedah, Kelantan, Johor and Terengganu they are closed on Fridays and public holidays. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|3|108|zoom=6}} kz1q9fxsggot0yjonrwx46t812bu005 5091280 5091279 2025-07-11T09:57:03Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091280 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner | Cameron_Highlands_Tea_Plantation_banner.jpg}} '''Malaysia''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]], on the Malay Peninsula, as well as on northern [[Borneo]]. The country is one of Asia's tiger economies, having seen great economic and human development during the last several decades. While the capital Kuala Lumpur is a cosmopolitan city, deep jungles cover vast swaths of the land, and the offshore islands are home to pristine beaches and some of the world's best scuba diving sites. Malaysia is also a foodie's paradise, with its diverse ethnic groups contributing to an incredibly rich culinary heritage. == Regions == Malaysia is divided into two main geographical regions, commonly known as Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. See [[Malaysia#Geography|Geography]] for more information. === Peninsular Malaysia === {{Mapframe|3.95|108.85|width=500|height=200|zoom=5|staticmap=Malaysia regions map.png|name=Map of Peninsular and East Malaysia}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q213467,Q188947,Q188096,Q188953,Q189710,Q1865,Q182378,Q213893,Q185221|fill=#69999f|title=[[West Coast (Malaysia)|West Coast]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q185944,Q189701,Q191346|fill=#71b37b|title=[[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q183032|fill=#d09440|title=[[Johor|South]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q179029,Q214504|fill=#867ea9|title=[[Sabah]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q170462|fill=#4f93c0|title=[[Sarawak]]}} {{Regionlist | region1name=[[West Coast (Malaysia)|West Coast]] | region1color=#69999f | region1items=[[Perlis]], [[Kedah]], [[Penang]], [[Perak]], [[Selangor]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Putrajaya]], [[Negeri Sembilan]], [[Malacca (state)|Malacca]] | region1description=The more developed region, offering the modern capital, [[Kuala Lumpur]], UNESCO World Heritage cities with colonial flair and the [[Langkawi]] archipelago. Perlis, Kedah and Perak are the gateways to [[Thailand]] overland. | region2name=[[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] | region2color=#71b37b | region2items=[[Kelantan]], [[Pahang]], [[Terengganu]] | region2description=The more traditional Muslim region, home to ''[[Taman Negara]]'' (National Park), numerous unspoilt islands and the [[Jungle Railway]], which winds through the rural hinterlands. Kelantan is the gateway to [[Thailand]] overland. | region3name=[[Johor]] | region3color=#d09440 | region3items= | region3description=Comprising just one state, two coastlines, endless palm oil plantations and the gateway to [[Singapore]] via a causeway or bridge. }} ===East Malaysia=== {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Sabah]] and [[Labuan]] | region1color=#867ea9 | region1items= | region1description=Superb scuba diving in [[Sipadan]] island plus muck diving at [[Mabul]], nature reserves, the federal enclave of [[Labuan]] and the mighty [[Mount Kinabalu]]. | region2name=[[Sarawak]] | region2color=#4f93c0 | region2items= | region2description=The southern state of East Malaysia (Borneo). Home to traditional longhouses, lush jungles and national parks in contrast to the state capital, [[Kuching]]. It is the gateway to [[Brunei]] and [[Indonesia]] overland. }} == Cities == [[File:PetronasKLCC.jpg|thumb|The iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur]] <!-- Only cities of primary importance to tourists here, maximum 9 --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuala Lumpur]]|wikidata=Q1865}} — the multi-cultural national capital, home of the Petronas Twin Towers * {{marker|type=city|name=[[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]]|wikidata=Q61092}} — the capital of [[Penang]] and hub of Malaysia's second largest metropolitan area, famed for its colonial-era architecture, multi-cultural populace, food and arts scene * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Malacca]]|wikidata=Q61089}} — the historical city of Malaysia with colonial-style architecture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ipoh]]|wikidata=Q271619}} — the capital of [[Perak]], with a historic colonial old town and tin mining area * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Johor Bahru]]|wikidata=Q231318}} — capital of [[Johor]] and Malaysia's third largest city, at the border with Singapore * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuantan]]|wikidata=Q817578}} — capital of [[Pahang]] and largest city on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kota Kinabalu]]|wikidata=Q137271}} — close to tropical islands, lush rain forest and Mount Kinabalu * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuching]]|wikidata=Q220445}} — capital of [[Sarawak]], and largest city in East Malaysia * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Miri]]|wikidata=Q986803}} — resort city of Sarawak near the border with Brunei and gateway to [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]], [[Gunung Mulu National Park]] <!-- Only cities of primary importance to tourists here, maximum 9 --> ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cameron Highlands]]|wikidata=Q1028741}} — famous for its tea plantations * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Perhentian Islands]]|wikidata=Q2070782}} (''Pulau Perhentian'') — glittering jewels off the East Coast still undiscovered by mass tourism * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Taman Negara]]|wikidata=Q728141}} — a large area of rainforest national park spanning [[Kelantan]], [[Pahang]] and [[Terengganu]] * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kinabalu National Park]]|wikidata=Q60967}} — home of Mount Kinabalu * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Langkawi]]|wikidata=Q273303}} — an archipelago of 99 islands known for its beaches, rainforest, mountains, mangrove estuaries and unique nature. It's also a duty-free island * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sipadan]]|wikidata=Q1412482}} (''Pulau Sipadan'') — one of the best dive spots in the world * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Redang]]|wikidata=Q1897123}} (''Pulau Redang'') — popular island destination for scuba divers * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Tioman]]|wikidata=Q771765}} (''Pulau Tioman'') — once nominated one of the most beautiful islands in the world * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Fraser's Hill]]|wikidata=Q3086678}} — a time warp to the colonial era == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMalaysia.png}} Malaysia is a mix of the modern world and a developing nation. With its investment in high technology industries and moderate oil wealth, it has become a rich nation in Southeast Asia. Malaysia, for most visitors, presents a happy mix: there is high-tech infrastructure and things generally work well and more or less on schedule, but prices remain more reasonable than, say, [[Singapore]]. The demographics between the rich and poor can also be quite apparent: for example, a high rise luxury condominium building built right across the street from old, rundown shop lots or flats. However, you will not find extreme rural poverty or gigantic urban slums as in most other countries of Southeast Asia. In terms of attractions, peninsular (West) Malaysia contains islands with gorgeous beaches and a fraction of visitors found in [[Thailand]]'s most popular beaches, mountain retreats surrounded by tea plantations, interesting historical cities, world-famous food, and the highly modern, multi-cultural capital of [[Kuala Lumpur]]. East Malaysia contains lush jungles with diverse native population and wildlife, as well as stunning natural attractions such as giant caves, beautiful mountains and fantastic diving sites. Notably, however, Malaysia is not as popular among backpackers as other Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand, [[Cambodia]] and [[Vietnam]], partly due to the relatively higher costs, and partly due to the more religious and conservative, albeit generally tolerant, culture. It also lacks the ancient Hindu and/or Buddhist temples and temple complexes of its neighbours, though it does have some large ones built since the 19th century. === History === [[File:Melaka-Dutch-Square-2164.jpg|thumb|The Dutch Square in Malacca]] Before the rise of the European colonial powers, the Malay Peninsula and the [[Malay Archipelago|Malay archipelago]] were home to empires such as the Srivijaya (whose capital was near modern [[Palembang]], [[Sumatra]], but which included the entire Malay Peninsula and lands further north at its greatest extent), the Majapahit (centred in [[Java]], now part of Indonesia, but believed by most scholars to have included the entire Malay Peninsula and most of coastal Borneo among its vassal states) and the [[Malacca]] Sultanate. The Srivijaya and Majapahit empires saw the spread of Hinduism to the region, and to this day, despite the fact that Malays are Muslims, many Hindu legends and traditions survive in traditional Malay culture. Mass conversion to Islam only occurred after the arrival of Arab traders during the Malacca Sultanate. [[File:Fort Cornwallis Eck.JPG|thumb|Fort Cornwallis in [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], [[Penang]] marked the site where the British colonisation of Malaya began in 1786.]] During the 16th century the Portuguese established the first European colony in Southeast Asia by defeating the Malacca Sultanate. The Portuguese were religiously intolerant and cruel, so the Sultan of Johor assisted the Dutch in defeating them, and the Netherlands took control of the city. The British also established their first colony on the Malay peninsula in [[Penang]] when it was ceded by the Sultan of Kedah in 1786. Finally, the area was divided into Dutch and British spheres of influence with the signing of the Anglo-Dutch Treaty in 1824. With this treaty, the Dutch agreed to cede Malacca to the British and in return, the British ceded all their colonies on Sumatra to the Dutch. The line of division roughly corresponds to what is today the border between Malaysia and [[Indonesia]]. Before World War II, the Malay Peninsula was governed by the British as the Federated Malay States (Selangor, Perak, Negeri Sembilan and Pahang), which were governed as a single protectorate, the Unfederated Malay States (Johor, Kedah, Perlis, Terengganu and Kelantan), which were each governed as separate protectorates. The Straits Settlements (Malacca, Penang and Singapore) were crown colonies directly administered by the British colonisers. These colonies and protectorates were collectively referred to as "[[Malaya]]". British Borneo consisted of the British colony of North Borneo, the Kingdom of Sarawak, which was ruled by a British family known as the "White Rajas", and the British protectorate of Brunei. [[Pacific War|World War II]] was disastrous for the British Malayan Command. The Japanese swept down both coasts of the Malay Peninsula and despite fierce fighting, much of the British military was tied down fighting the Germans in Europe and those that remained in Malaya simply could not cope with the Japanese onslaught. The British military equipment left to defend Malaya was outdated and no match for the modern technology used by the Japanese, and the only two British battleships based in the region, the HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse, were sunk by Japanese bombers off the East Coast of Malaya. By 31 January 1942, the British had been pushed all the way back to Singapore, which fell to the Japanese on 15 February 1942. The situation was no different on Borneo, which fell to the Japanese on 1 April 1942 after months of fierce fighting. The Japanese occupation was brutal, and many, particularly the ethnic Chinese, suffered and perished during the occupation. Among the most notorious atrocities committed by the Japanese were the Sandakan Death Marches, with only 6 out of 2,345 prisoners surviving the war. After World War II, the Federated Malay States, Unfederated Malay States and the Straits Settlements of Malacca and Penang were federated to form a single British colony known as the Malayan Union, with Singapore being split off to form a separate colony. In the Malayan Union, the sultans of the various states ceded all their powers except those in religious affairs to the British crown. However, widespread opposition to the Malayan Union led the British to reconsider their position, and in 1948, the Malayan Union was replaced by the Federation of Malaya, in which the executive positions of the sultans were restored. In Borneo, the White Rajas ceded Sarawak to the British crown in 1946, making it a crown colony of the United Kingdom. [[File:Dataran Merdeka (18359791323).jpg|thumb|Malaysian flag flying in ''Dataran Merdeka'', Kuala Lumpur]] On 31 August 1957, Malaya gained independence from the British. At midnight, the Union Jack was lowered, and the Malayan flag raised in its place at what is today ''Dataran Merdeka'' (Independence Square) in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. The crowd, led by the first Prime Minister of Malaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman, then proceeded to chant "''Merdeka''" seven times. On 16 September 1963, Malaysia was formed through the merging of Malaya with the British colonies of North Borneo (now known as Sabah), Sarawak and Singapore, with Brunei deciding not to join. The first several years of the country's history were marred by the Confrontation (''Konfrontasi'') — actually a series of acts of aggression by Indonesia that ultimately ended in her defeat and a formal peace that has held ever since — and claims to Sabah from the Philippines. On 9 August 1965 Singapore was officially expelled from the federation after several bloody racial riots as Singapore's majority Chinese population and the People's Action Party, led by Lee Kuan Yew (later the long-ruling Prime Minister of Singapore), were seen as a threat to Malay dominance. There were further racial riots in 1969, which led to the forced resignation of Tunku Abdul Rahman; his replacement by Tun Abdul Razak; changes in the Malaysian Constitution that sought to prevent the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition led by the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) from ever being defeated in a future national election; and the start of the New Economic Policy, which sought to aggressively promote the economic interests of the generally poorer Malay community (and also the non-Malay indigenous peoples of East Malaysia) over those of the generally less poor Chinese community (with the poorest major ethnic group, the Indians, and also to a very large extent the Orang Asli [aboriginal people] in the Peninsula mostly ignored in the process). In 1975, boat people from across the South China Sea in [[Vietnam]] started coming, and Malaysia became one of the most important places of first refuge for Indochinese refugees, but in general, only those of the Muslim Champa minority were invited to stay permanently. Later, during the period of tremendous economic development under the long premiership of Mahathir Mohammed, a large number of immigrant workers were invited from [[Bangladesh]], [[Indonesia]], [[India]], and several other countries in the area, and even more immigrated illegally. This further increased the diversity of the population, and quite a number of the workers were reported in local newspapers to have intermarried with local women, but it also led to social strife as many Malaysian men resented the competition, and while the economy depended on immigrant workers to do jobs most Malaysians were no longer willing to do, now that their standard of living was higher, most Malaysians also did not want to permanently absorb a large and potentially almost limitless number of poor people from the much more populous countries in the region. Some immigrants were expelled and even caned for immigration violations, but the issue has never been really resolved. Things came to a head in 2015 when allegations of corruption by then-prime minister Najib Razak surfaced in connection with 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), which was originally set up to promote economic development by attracting foreign investment. The allegations led to the ''Bersih'' (Malay for "clean") rally in which protesters unsuccessfully called for Najib to step down. However, widespread discontent arising from the 1MDB corruption scandal continued to simmer, eventually leading to a shock first-ever electoral defeat for the incumbent BN coalition in the 2018 general election. === Politics === Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy consisting of 13 states and 3 federal territories, nominally headed by the king (''Yang di-Pertuan Agong'', lit. Paramount Ruler), whose position rotates among the rulers of the 9 royal states of Malaysia every five years, giving Malaysia a unique political system of rotational monarchy. In practice, the king is only the nominal head of state, while the prime minister is the one who wields the most authority in government. Malaysia's government is largely based on the British Westminster system, consisting of a bicameral national parliament. The lower house, known as the ''Dewan Rakyat'' (Hall of the People) is elected directly by the people. The upper house, known as the ''Dewan Negara'' (National Hall), consists of 26 members elected by the state governments, with each state having 2 representatives, while the remaining members are appointed by the king. The head of government is the prime minister, who is the party leader of the winning party in the lower house. At the state level, each of the states also has its own unicameral ''Dewan Undangan Negeri'' (State Legislative Assembly), with the head of the state government being the ''Menteri Besar'' (First Minister, often translated as "Chief Minister" in English-language media) in the royal states, and the ''Ketua Menteri'' (Chief Minister) in the non-royal states. === Geography === Malaysia comprises two geographic regions, Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, which are separated by the South China Sea. '''Peninsular Malaysia''' (''Semenanjung Malaysia'') occupies all of the Malay Peninsula between [[Thailand]] and [[Singapore]], and is also known as West Malaysia (''Malaysia Barat'') or the slightly archaic [[Malaya]] (''Tanah Melayu''). It's home to the bulk of Malaysia's population, the capital and the largest city [[Kuala Lumpur]], and generally more economically developed. Peninsular Malaysia consists of plains on both the East and West Coasts, separated from each other by a mountain range known as the ''Banjaran Titiwangsa'', with the West Coast being more densely populated and generally more well-developed than the East Coast. Separated some 800&nbsp;km to the east of Peninsular Malaysia is '''East Malaysia''' (''Malaysia Timur''). East Malaysia occupies the northern third of the island of [[Borneo]], shared with [[Indonesia]] and tiny [[Brunei]]. Much of the development on East Malaysia is centred around the cities of [[Kuching]], [[Miri]] and [[Kota Kinabalu]]. Outside of the major cities and smaller towns are impenetrable jungle where head hunters once roamed and coastal plains rising to mountains. East Malaysia is rich in natural resources and is very much Malaysia's hinterland for industry and tourism, though those who make the trip will find it to be a world-class ecotourism destination. ===People=== Malaysia is a multicultural society. While Malays (a branch of the [[Austronesian]] group) make up a 52% majority, 27% of Malaysians are Chinese (who are especially visible in the cities), 9% are Indians, 12% are members of aboriginal peoples (often called ''Orang Asli'', Malay for "Original People"), and there is a miscellaneous grouping of 1.5% "others", including Thai communities in northern border states and the Portuguese clan in Malacca. The majority of the population (including virtually all Malays, as well as a significant minority of Indians) adheres to [[Islam]], the state religion, and there are substantial minorities who practice [[Christianity]], [[Buddhism]], Taoism, [[Hinduism]], [[Sikhism]] and animism, which are allowed under the constitution, subject to the supremacy of Islam — for example, it is illegal to proselytize other religions to Muslims. ===Culture=== Malaysia shares many cultural similarities with its neighbours, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore due to their common history. As the first great kingdoms to emerge in the region were Hindu kingdoms with much influence from India, Malay culture has substantial Indian influences. This is most visible in Malay cuisine with its relatively heavy use of curries, albeit using local instead of Indian spices, meaning that Malay curries often have a unique local flavour that is different from their Indian counterparts. In addition, the Malay language contains quite a few loan words from Sanskrit, and traditional Malay arts show noticeable influences from Hindu mythology, albeit Islamised. Malaysia's minorities also continue to maintain their own distinct cultures, with the Chinese and Indian communities continuing to preserve the traditions brought from their ancestral homelands. In particular, Malaysia's ethnic Chinese community is considered to have preserved Chinese culture and language the best among all the overseas Chinese communities of the world. Moreover, as Malaysia was unaffected by the Cultural Revolution, the ethnic Chinese community of Malaysia has preserved many elements of traditional Chinese culture that have been lost in mainland China. ===Holidays=== {{ramadandates}} One of the significant characteristics of Malaysian culture is its celebration of various festivals and events. The year is filled with colourful, exhilarating and exciting activities. Some are religious and solemn but others are vibrant, joyous events. One interesting feature of the main festivals here is the 'open house' custom. This is when Malaysians celebrating the festival invite friends and family to come by their homes for some traditional delicacies and fellowship. Multicultural Malaysia celebrates a vast range of festivals, but the ones to look out for nationwide are Islamic holidays, most notably the fasting month of '''Ramadan'''. During its 29 or 30 days, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sex from dawn to sunset. Not all Muslims follow the tradition, or sustain the full period of Ramadan fasting, but most do make a very serious effort. Pregnant, breast feeding or menstruating women are not expected to fast, nor are the elderly, the infirm, or travellers. People get up early before sunrise for a meal (''sahur''), and take off early to get back home in time to break fast (''buka puasa'') at sunset. At the end of the month is the festival of '''Eid ul-Fitr''', known locally as '''Hari Raya Puasa''' or '''Aidilfitri''', when many locals take one to two weeks off to 'balik kampung' or return to their home towns to meet family and friends. Accordingly, this is one of the many times in a year when major cities like Kuala Lumpur have virtually no traffic congestion. Another important festival is the Muslim festival of '''Eid ul-Adha''', known locally as '''Hari Raya Haji''' or '''Aidiladha'''. It is during this festival that Muslims perform the Hajj or pilgrimage to Mecca. In local mosques, cows and goats are donated by the faithful and sacrificed, after which the meat is distributed to all. Family reunions are also celebrated during other main festivals when locals usually put on traditional costumes and finery as these festivals are an integral feature of Malaysian society. During the month of Ramadan, non-Muslims are expected to be considerate of those fasting. Non-Muslims, as well as Muslims travelling (''musafir''), are exempt from fasting but it is polite to refrain from eating or drinking in public. Public school systems also require non-Muslims to refrain from eating in front of those who are fasting. Many restaurants close during the day and those that stay open maintain a low profile. Business travellers will notice that things move rather more slowly than usual. The upside for foreign travellers are the Ramadan bazaars in every city and town, bustling with activity and bursting at the seams with great food. That said, most Chinese stalls and restaurants remain open, and you will see people eating and drinking openly in Chinese-majority areas. Hotels and restaurants also pull out all stops to put on massive spreads of food for fast-breaking feasts. During the month of Ramadan, meals at the end of fasts are usually considered grand feasts. Worldwide fast-food chain McDonald's is known for holding several all-you-can-eat Ramadan feasts during the month. {{CNYdates}} Other major holidays include '''Chinese New Year''' (around January/February), '''Deepavali''' or '''Diwali''', the Hindu festival of lights (around October/November), the Buddhist holiday of '''Wesak''' (around May/June), and '''Christmas''' (25 December). During Chinese New Year, George Town and Ipoh become the major cities as many local Chinese working and living in KL originated from there. However this situation is changing gradually, as more and more people are making Kuala Lumpur their home town. While visiting during such festivals, travellers will be able to experience many wonderful celebrations, but the downside is many ethnic shops/eateries will be closed. The best option is to visit during the period just after the first two days of the major festival (Hari Raya/Chinese New Year), when shops will open, and the festive mood has still not died down. Another major celebration is '''Deepavali''', celebrated by the Malaysian Hindus as the festival of light originating from classical India and one of the main cultural celebrations. In Malaysia, locals practice this tradition by wearing new clothes and receiving token gifts of money. This practice has been adapted by all Malaysians regardless of their religion. They distribute red packets or ''ang pow'' during Chinese New Year, green packets or 'duit raya' for Hari Raya Aidilfitri and multi-coloured packets during Deepavali. Some uniquely Malaysian festivals of note include the '''Harvest Festival''' at the end of May each year and the ''''Pesta Gawai'''' in early June, both thanksgiving celebrations held in [[East Malaysia]]. '''Thaipusam''' is a Hindu festival that falls in January or February and is one of the must-see events. The largest procession in the country takes place at Batu Caves, Selangor. Male devotees carry decorated altars or ''kavadi'' up a flight of 272 steps towards the temple, all this while also having religious spears and hooks pierced through external surfaces of their bodies. The ability is attributed to divine intervention and religious fervour. Female devotees join the procession carrying pots of milk on their head instead. === Climate === The '''climate''' in Malaysia is equatorial. The north-east monsoon (October to February) deluges Borneo and the East Coast of the Peninsula in rain and often causes flooding, while the West Coast (particularly Langkawi and Penang) escapes unscathed. The milder south-west monsoon (April to October) reverses the pattern. The southern and central parts of Peninsular Malaysia, including perennially soggy Kuala Lumpur, are exposed to both but even during the rainy season, the showers tend to be intense but brief. Malaysia is close to the equator, so warm weather is guaranteed. Temperatures generally range from 32°C (90°F) at noon to about 26°C (79°F) at midnight. But like most Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia's sun-shining days are interrupted by monsoon season every year, and night temperatures can hit a low of about 23°C (73°F) on rainy days. Temperatures tend to be cooler in the highlands, with the likes of [[Genting Highlands]], [[Cameron Highlands]] and [[Fraser's Hill]] having temperatures ranging from about 17°C (63°F) at night to about 25°C (77°F) in the day. Mount Kinabalu is known to have temperatures falling below 10°C (50°F). ===Tourist information === * [https://www.tourism.gov.my/ Malaysia Tourism Corporation] == Talk == {{seealso|Malay phrasebook}} The national-level official language of Malaysia is '''[[Malay phrasebook|Malay]]''' (officially ''Bahasa Malaysia'', sometimes also known as ''Bahasa Melayu'') and '''English''' is also the co-official language of the state of [[Sarawak]]. The [[Indonesian phrasebook|Indonesian]] language, spoken across the border in Indonesia, is similar to Malay, and speakers of both languages can generally understand each other. The main differences are in the loanwords: Malay borrowed more from English, while Indonesian borrowed more from Dutch. Some parts of Malaysia near the Thai border, most notably [[Kelantan]], have dialects of Malay which are nearly incomprehensible to speakers of standard Malay, though most people in these areas will be able to converse in standard Malay if needed. '''English''' is compulsory in all schools and widely spoken in the larger cities, among the well-educated upper class, as well as around the main tourist attractions, although in rural areas a little Malay will come in handy. There is also a local dialect of English spoken among Malaysians in urban areas, not inappropriately known as '''Manglish''', which has its own simplified grammar and a vocabulary that is mostly English but includes borrowings from Malay and several other locally-spoken languages; it takes a bit of getting used to if you intend to join in the conversation on local topics. Almost all Malaysians will not pronounce the letter "h", so "three" becomes "tree". Malaysians will almost always try to speak 'standardized English' (British) when approached by Western travellers. In general, police stations and government offices have English-speaking staff on duty. [[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]] is taught to those who attend Islamic religious schools, and many clerics as well as other very observant Muslims have a functional command of Arabic. However, it is not widely spoken, though the Malay language does have a large number of loan words from Arabic. You also might notice some examples of Malay written with Arabic letters. This is called Jawi, and it is still used for religious publications and inscriptions, especially in more conservative states like [[Kelantan]], although the Latin alphabet is much more commonly used throughout the country. The Chinese community in Malaysia speaks a wide variety of Chinese dialects including [[Cantonese phrasebook|Cantonese]], [[Teochew phrasebook|Teochew]], [[Hakka phrasebook|Hakka]], [[Hainanese phrasebook|Hainanese]], [[Fuzhou dialect phrasebook|Hokchiu]] and [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]]. [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] is taught in Chinese schools while Cantonese is commonly heard in the mass media due to the popularity of TVB serials from Hong Kong among the Chinese community, so many are conversant in both, regardless of their native dialect. Malaysian cities with large ethnic Chinese populations will often have a dialect serving as a lingua franca among that community: in Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh, this is Cantonese; in Penang and Klang, Hokkien; and in Kota Kinabalu, Hakka. The most commonly spoken Indian language is [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]]; others include [[Malayalam phrasebook|Malayalam]], [[Punjabi phrasebook|Punjabi]] and [[Telugu phrasebook|Telugu]]. In the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia bordering Thailand, there are various ethnic Thai communities, known locally as the ''Orang Siam'', who speak various dialects of [[Thai phrasebook|Thai]]. [[Malacca]] in the south is also home to a Portuguese community which speaks a [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]] based creole. The remote forest areas of Peninsular Malaysia are also home to various tribal people known as the ''Orang Asli'', who speak various indigenous languages such as Semelai, Temuan and many others. In East Malaysia several indigenous languages are also spoken, especially [[Iban phrasebook|Iban]] and Kadazan. Films and television programmes are usually shown in their original language with Malay subtitles, although some children's programmes are dubbed into Malay. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== {{VisaRestriction |Entry '''will be refused''' to citizens of [[Israel]] with an Israeli passport unless holding a letter of approval from the Malaysian Ministry of Home Affairs. Additionally citizens of Israel require an onward ticket and will be asked to purchase one or be '''refused entry'''. Malaysia is no longer concerned about other nationals' passports that show entry stamps and/or visas from Israel. |lastedit=2013-03-07 }} ====Visa==== [[Image:World map of the visa policy of Malaysia.png|thumb|375px]] Most nationalities can enter Malaysia without a visa and can reside in Malaysia for 14 to 90 days, depending on their nationality. Refer to the '''[https://www.kln.gov.my/ Ministry of Foreign Affairs]''' for current information regarding visa requirements and stay periods. The East Malaysian states of [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]] each maintains its own immigration system and separate controls: even Malaysians from other states require a passport or MyKad on arrival. Those who wish to enter Malaysia for purposes other than for a Social or Business visit still require a visa for any period except for US citizens who enter for the purpose of studying. Nationals of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Montenegro, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Serbia, and Sri Lanka need a visa but can apply for an '''e-visa''', which is valid for 3 months for a stay of up to 30 days. You'll have to print out the visa once it's issued and bring proof of sufficient funds, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation when you enter the country. Citizens of India are exempted needing to have a visa for a stay of up to 30 days until December 31, 2026. '''Overstaying''' a visa will result in a US$10, €7.50 or RM30 fine per day. However it's fairly simple to avoid overstaying a visa by doing a "visa run" to a neighbouring country overland or via a cheap flight. Malaysia may impose '''caning''' as a punishment for overstaying a visa. ====Malaysia Digital Arrival Card==== Since 2024, all foreign travellers must complete the '''[https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)]''' online for every visit to Malaysia. You can only complete this card a maximum of 3 days ahead of your arrival — in practice you can even submit it on the day of arrival while in the queue to immigration. At KLIA there are also PCs available before immigration where you can complete the card. ====Autogates==== Travellers from most visa-free countries may use the '''autogates''' to complete immigration formalities when entering and exiting Malaysia via multiple ports of entry such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and the Causeway in Johor Bahru. Your passport needs to be valid for a minimum of 6 months if entering via KLIA, or 3 months if entering by road from Singapore. Entry through any other immigration checkpoint will require you to be processed at a manned immigration counter. {{infobox|Fingerprinting at Immigration|Malaysian Immigration authorities '''fingerprint''' visitors on arrival and departure. These fingerprints may well find their way to other country's authorities or other non-state agencies.}} It is advisable to use autogates if you can, as the immigration queues can be quite brutal. If you are qualified for the autogates, you don't need to enroll. You can proceed directly to an autogate, even if it's your first visit. There is one exception: if you want to proceed to East Malaysia, you need to go to a human counter and have your passport stamped as it is required by Malaysian law. You will need to clear immigration by showing your passport with an entry stamp when you arrive at a port in East Malaysia. If you are not a Malaysian citizen and cannot use the autogates, '''ensure that your passport is stamped on entry''', or you would be considered to have entered illegally otherwise (and Malaysian immigration officials don't always give entry stamps unprompted). Fines on the order of RM3,000 will be imposed when you try to leave without the entry stamp in your passport. Also '''ensure that your passport is stamped when you leave''', or you would be considered to have left illegally otherwise, which could cause problems should you wish to visit Malaysia again in the future. ====Transit visas==== Even though citizens of Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka normally require a visa, they can transit the same airport for up to 120 hours provided they arrive and depart on the same airline, land at [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]], [[Kota Kinabalu]], [[Kuching]], [[Penang]] or [[Johor Bahru]] and present an air ticket for the onward flight. ====Customs==== Travellers are not permitted to bring more than the equivalent of US$10,000 in Malaysian ringgit per person in and out of the country. There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you can bring into or out of Malaysia, but you are required to declare to customs if the total amount of cash and traveller's cheques you are carrying exceeds the equivalent of US$10,000 per person. Non-Muslim travellers aged 21 and above are permitted to bring up to 1L of alcohol into Malaysia. There is ''no'' duty free allowance for tobacco products including cigarettes; all tobacco products must be declared and duties paid. ===By plane=== [[File:KLIA MTB&Tower.jpg|thumb|[[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]] in [[Sepang]], [[Selangor]].]] National carrier '''[https://www.malaysiaairlines.com Malaysia Airlines]''' (MAS) has extensive coverage within Asia, and intercontinental flights to Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. It regularly ranks high in airline quality assessments. Low-cost carrier '''AirAsia''' and its sister company, '''AirAsia X''', connects an ever-expanding set of countries including [[Australia]], [[China]], [[Cambodia]], [[Hong Kong]], [[India]], [[Indonesia]], [[Laos]], [[Macau]], [[New Zealand]], the [[Philippines]], [[Singapore]], [[Sri Lanka]], [[Thailand]], [[Myanmar]] and [[Vietnam]]. Emirates also flies from most cities to [[Kuala Lumpur]] via [[Dubai]], and flights to [[Perth]], [[Australia]], make a brief stop in [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport|KLIA]]. * {{listing | name=AirAsia | alt= | url=http://www.airasia.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 3 8775-4000, 1 300 88 9933 (in country only)| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Malaysia Airlines | alt= | url=http://www.malaysiaairlines.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 3 7846-3000, 1-300-88-3000 (in country only)| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Emirates Airlines | alt= | url=http://www.emirates.com/my/english/index.aspx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 36 207 4999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} Most international flights land at '''[[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]] [http://www.klia.com.my (KLIA)]''' ({{IATA|KUL}}). KLIA's predecessor, the '''Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport''' ({{IATA|SZB}}) in Subang near [[Kuala Lumpur]] handles mostly domestic turboprop fights, with limited regional services to [[Singapore]] and [[Jakarta]]. See the [[Kuala Lumpur#get in|Kuala Lumpur '''Get in''' section]] for detailed airport information. Other airports which have significant numbers of flights to regional destinations are [[Kota Kinabalu]] (Sabah), [[Penang]], [[Kuching]] (Sarawak), [[Langkawi]] and [[Johor Bahru]]. Some other smaller airports also serve limited international flights from [[Singapore]]. === By train === * '''From Singapore:''' There's a shuttle train service which runs seven times each way during the morning and evening peak periods from Woodlands Train Station (in the north of [[Singapore]]) to JB sentral in [[Johor Bahru]], costing MYR5 from the Malaysian side and SGD5 on the Singapore side. Conventional intercity trains then connect [[Johor Bahru]] with [[Gemas]] (where you can transfer to a train to [[Kuala Lumpur]]) and Tumpat, near [[Kota Bharu]]. They don't always match up to the shuttle times, so be prepared for long waiting times or get a backup plan by bus should you miss the shuttle. Early morning trains to Singapore and late evening trains to Malaysia are usually packed on the weekdays and the traffic flow reverses on the weekends. Booking online at the [http://www.ktmb.com.my KTMB website] may reserve a precious seat without hassle. When travelling from Singapore into Malaysia, both Singaporean and Malaysian immigration checks are conducted at Woodlands Train Station before boarding the train for Malaysia. In the reverse direction, Malaysian immigration checks are conducted at JB Sentral before boarding, while Singaporean immigration checks are conducted on arrival in Woodlands. * '''From Thailand:''' Trains from Thailand start and terminate at the border at [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] where Thai and Malaysian immigration formalities are all conveniently done in the station, and you can transfer between Malaysian and Thai trains. There are two Padang Besar stations; one in Thailand and one in Malaysia; be sure to get off the train only at the Padang Besar station in Malaysia, as that is where both Thai and Malaysian immigration checks are conducted, and where transfers between Malaysian and Thai trains take place. There is also a less used eastern route from [[Hat Yai]] to Thai border town [[Sungai Kolok]], but there are no through trains to the nearby Malaysian station at Wakaf Bahru (near [[Kota Bharu]]). === By bus === Long-distance buses/coaches into Malaysia run from Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. Please see the relevant city pages for more details. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — There are buses to [[Miri]] and [[Kota Kinabalu]], leaving from the waterfront in downtown [[Bandar Seri Begawan]]. There are also buses to [[Limbang]]. * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — Direct buses operate between [[Pontianak]] or [[Singkawang]] in [[West Kalimantan]] and [[Kuching]] in [[Sarawak]]. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — A multitude of bus companies operate direct routes from Singapore to various destinations in [[Peninsular Malaysia]], including [[Malacca]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Penang]], [[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] cities and even [[Petaling Jaya]] and [[Subang Jaya]]. Frequent public buses make the short run between Singapore and [[Johor Bahru]], and you can save a few bucks by changing at JB's Larkin terminal to a cheap domestic bus instead of taking a more expensive direct bus. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — Several companies operate services from [[Kuala Lumpur]] and other cities in Malaysia to [[Hat Yai]] in [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]], where direct connections are available to [[Bangkok]] and many other Thai destinations. === By taxi=== Special cross-border taxis operate between Singapore and Johor Bahru. See [[Johor_Bahru#By_taxi]] for details. === By road=== [[File:Danok Sadao Border Crossing2.jpg|thumb|Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint in [[Kedah]], on the border with [[Thailand]]]] Land crossings are possible from [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]] and Singapore into [[Peninsular Malaysia]], as well as from Brunei and [[Kalimantan]] (the Indonesian side of Borneo) into [[Sarawak]]. There is no official crossing into [[Sabah]] from Indonesia even though they share a land border. An International Drivers Permit (IDP) is required. See the respective city or state pages for more detailed information. Starting from 1st October 2024, a vehicle entry permit (VEP) is required to drive a foreign-registered car into Malaysia from Singapore. You must apply for the permit [https://vep.jpj.gov.my/ online], affix the RFID tag that will be sent to your home address to your car, and activate the tag online before you can drive into Malaysia. Unless you already have a car in Singapore, it makes more sense to cross the border first and rent much more cheaply in Malaysia. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — The main crossings are at '''Sungai Tujoh''' on the [[Miri]], [[Sarawak]], to [[Bandar Seri Begawan]] (Brunei) road, and the '''Kuala Lurah-Tedungan''' checkpoint which is used for traffic travelling between Bandar Seri Begawan and [[Limbang]] in [[Sarawak]]. You can also access the [[Temburong]] district of Brunei by road from [[Limbang]] via the Pandaruan (Puni on the Brunei side) checkpoint and [[Lawas]] via Trusan (Labu on the Brunei side). * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — The main crossing is at the '''Tebedu-Entikong''' checkpoint on the main [[Kuching]]-[[Pontianak]] road. The other two official crossings are the '''Biawak-Aruk''' crossing on the main Kuching-[[Singkawang]] road, and the more remote '''Lubok Antu-Nanga Badau''' crossing. All three crossings are between the Malaysian state of [[Sarawak]] and the Indonesian province of [[West Kalimantan]]. There are also several unofficial crossings that are used by locals, but as a foreigner, you should not use them as that is considered to be illegal entry. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — The two crossings are the '''Causeway''' which links [[Johor Bahru]] with '''Woodlands''' in Singapore, and the Malaysia-Singapore '''Second Link''' (''Linkedua'') which links [[Iskandar Puteri]] with Tuas in Singapore. See [[Johor Baru#Get in|Johor Bahru '''Get in''' section]] and [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore '''Get in''' section]] for more details. Generally speaking, the Second Link is less congested than the Causeway, and is more convenient for those who wish to drive up the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, but a lot less convenient for people who just want to visit Johor Bahru. Singapore-registered cars must have their fuel tank filled to at least ¾ full when leaving Singapore. '''Cycling into Malaysia''' is permitted only through the Causeway but not the Second Link; use the motorcycle lanes and have your entry processed at the manual motorcycle counters. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — International checkpoints (from west to east, with the Thai towns in brackets) are at '''[[Wang Kelian]]''' ([[Satun]]) and '''[[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]]''' ([[Padang Besar (Thailand)|Padang Besar]]) in [[Perlis]], '''[[Bukit Kayu Hitam]]''' ([[Sadao]]) and '''Kota Putra''' (Banprokob) in [[Kedah]], '''Pengkalan Hulu''' (Betong) in [[Perak]], and '''Bukit Bunga''' (Buketa) and '''[[Rantau Panjang]]''' ([[Sungai Kolok]]) in [[Kelantan]]. Thai immigration has long been known to demand a bribe of RM2/20 baht per person to stamp you in or out, though there has been a crackdown on this. Instead, there is now an official fee levied by Thai immigration if you are crossing the border at peak times (5AM-8:30AM, noon-1PM or 4:30PM-9PM on weekdays, and all day on weekends and both Malaysian and Thai public holidays); this is 25 baht for the driver and 5 baht for each passenger if crossing the border by car, and 10 baht for the rider and 3 baht for the pillion if crossing by motorcycle. No fee is payable if you are walking across the border. === By boat === [[File:Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal.jpg|thumb|Ferry terminal in [[Iskandar Puteri]], [[Johor]]]] Ferries connect various points in [[Peninsular Malaysia]] with [[Sumatra]] in Indonesia and [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]], [[Sarawak]] with Brunei, and [[Sabah]] with [[East Kalimantan]] in Indonesia and [[Mindanao]] in the Philippines. Luxury cruises also run from Singapore and sometimes [[Phuket]] (Thailand) to Malaysia. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — Ferries travel daily between the Muara Ferry Terminal in Brunei and [[Labuan]]. * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — The main jumping-off points from Indonesia are the [[Riau Islands]] of [[Batam]], [[Bintan]] and [[Karimun]]; [[Dumai]], [[Medan]] and [[Pekanbaru]] on the [[Sumatra]] mainland as well as [[Nunukan]] in [[East Kalimantan]]. Ferries link [[Batam]] with Batu Pahat, [[Iskandar Puteri]] and [[Johor Bahru]]; [[Bintan]] with [[Johor Bahru]]; [[Karimun]] with Batu Pahat and Kukup in [[Johor]]; Dumai with [[Malacca]], Muar in [[Johor]], Port Dickson (in [[Negeri Sembilan]]) and [[Port Klang]], the port for [[Selangor]]; Pekanbaru with [[Malacca]]. Daily ferries also link Nunukan and [[Tarakan]] with Tawau in [[Sabah]]. There are also minor crossings like between Bengkalis in [[Riau]] and Batu Pahat; [[Sumatra]] and [[Malacca]] and Muar in [[Johor]]; and Tanjung Balai Asahan in [[North Sumatra]] with [[Port Klang]], the port for [[Selangor]]. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — A daily ferry runs between Tanah Merah and [[Desaru]], and there is a weekend service between Tanah Merah and [[Pengerang]], both in [[Johor]]. See the [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore '''Get in''' section]] for details. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — Four ferries travel daily (reduced to three during Ramadan) between Tammalang at [[Satun]] and Kuah on [[Langkawi]], Malaysia. Both passenger bum boats and vehicular ferries operate between Ban Taba near [[Tak Bai]] in [[Narathiwat_(province)|Narathiwat province]] and Pengkalan Kubur in [[Kelantan]], Malaysia. === On foot === It is possible to enter Malaysia from [[Thailand]] on foot at [[Wang Kelian]] and [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] (both in [[Perlis]]), [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]] ([[Kedah]]), Pengkalan Hulu ([[Perak]]) and [[Rantau Panjang]] ([[Kelantan]]). From [[Singapore]], it is possible to cross into Malaysia on foot using the Causeway, but be prepared for a very long walk as Malaysian immigration is now located 2km inland from the border. Unlike the previous customs and immigration complex, the current one was not set up to handle pedestrian traffic, meaning that there are no pedestrian footpaths on the Malaysian side, and you have to walk on the road among vehicular traffic to get to customs and immigration. Crossing the Second Link on foot is not allowed; not that there would be any practical way to continue your journey on either side even if you did. In East Malaysia, there is a ferry from [[Kota Kinabalu]] to [[Labuan]]. == Get around == Immigration controls are in place for travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, as well as between the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. Malaysian citizens need to present their ID cards, while foreign citizens are required to present their passports in order to travel. === By plane === Flying is the only practical option for traveling between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, as well as reaching some of the more remote outposts of Borneo. Largely thanks to budget carrier '''[http://www.airasia.com AirAsia]''', Malaysia is crisscrossed by a web of affordable flights with advertised promotional prices starting at RM9 for flights booked well in advance. State carrier '''[http://www.malaysiaairlines.com Malaysia Airlines]''' also has competitive fares which now include equally or even lower-priced tickets if booked in advance through the internet, with a few more frills. Their offshoot '''[https://www.fireflyz.com.my/my/en/home.html Firefly]''' operates a handy network of turboprop flights radiating out of Penang and Kuala Lumpur's second airport Subang (Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah). In [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]], '''[http://www.maswings.com.my MASWings]''', operates turboprop services linking interior communities, including those in the [[Kelabit Highlands]], with coastal cities. === By bus === {{infobox|Report Bad Drivers|Bus drivers (especially on more "rural" routes) sometimes drive carelessly, speed like maniacs, overtake on blind corners, etc. The vast majority of journeys are problem-free. However, some horrific accidents attributed to reckless driving have led to a crackdown and a nationwide hotline, and an SMS number for reporting these drivers/vehicles has been set up. This number is conveniently pasted on the back of every single large vehicle in the country.}} [[File:Higer-RapidPenang.JPG|thumb|Public bus in Penang]] The cheapest way to travel in Malaysia is by bus. All towns of any size have a bus terminal offering connections to other parts of the country. There are many companies of varying degrees of dependability, but two of the largest and more reliable are '''[https://www.transnasional.com.my/ Transnasional]''' and '''[http://www.plusliner.com.my/ NICE/Plusliner]'''. 24-seater "luxury" buses are recommended for long-distance travel. Air conditioning on some buses can be extremely cold so don't forget to bring a good sweater, pants and socks, especially for overnight journeys on luxury buses! If travelling on holidays or even over the weekend, it is advisable to reserve your seats in advance. Many bus companies allow for you to book online directly through their website. However, some only allow online booking for individuals with Malaysian credit cards, which is not really convenient for international visitors. With some website you will still have to pay a station fee of RM2 at the bus station, with others not. At TBS (KL) it is easy to book a bus directly at the station. Often RM0.40 are charged as insurance by stations, tell them if you don't want that. The common booking websites are: * {{listing | name=Bus Online Ticket |alt=| url=https://www.busonlineticket.com/ | email=sales@busonlineticket.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+603 2027 4626 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-05-26| content= }} * {{listing | name=redBus | alt= | url=http://www.redbus.sg | email=support@redbus.sg | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+65-31582888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Easybook | alt=Easibook | url=http://www.easybook.com | email=enquiry@easybook.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 332 7718 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-03-27 | content= }} === By train === [[File:Padang Besar 4.jpg|thumb|KTM ETS train at Padang Besar station]] State operator [http://www.ktmb.com.my '''Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad''' (KTMB)] provides relatively inexpensive and generally reliable services around [[Peninsular Malaysia]] (but not [[Sabah]]/[[Sarawak]] in [[Borneo]]). The main western line connects [[Butterworth]] (Penang), [[Ipoh]], [[Kuala Lumpur]] and [[Johor Bahru]], while the eastern line branches off at [[Gemas]] and runs through [[Gua Musang]] and the [[Taman Negara]] to [[Tumpat]], near the Thai border and the [[Perhentian Islands]]. Be sure to hold on to your ticket, as it will be checked at your destination station before you are allowed to leave. The pride of KTMB's fleet is the '''ETS''' (Electric Train Service) from the Thai border at [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] to [[Segamat]], with a branch line to [[Butterworth]] (with transfers to/from [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] by ferry), running clean, punctual and modern air-conditioned trains daily at up to 140&nbsp;km/h. ETS trains are classified as '''Express''', '''Platinum''', '''Gold''' and '''Silver''', with the former the fastest and stopping only at major stations, and the latter being the slowest and stopping at every station. Seating in all four is the same but faster trains are slightly more expensive, with the fares for the popular KL-Ipoh route clocking in at 46 RM (Express) to 31 RM (Silver). Platinum trains also offer a '''business class''' cabin at extra cost, with wider seats and more leg room, and access to a business class lounge if you are departing from KL Sentral. There is no longer ETS service from Padang Besar to Butterworth; the route is served by '''KTM Komuter''' trains instead, which while also electrified and air-conditioned are designed for commuter rather than long-distance travel. The rest of the network, though, is mostly single-track, with slow diesel locos and all too frequent breakdowns and delays. In May, 2016 KTMB ceased all sleeper trains on the western line, following the electrification of the track to Gemas. An air conditioned 2nd class only, diesel shuttle train now connects the section from Gemas to JB Sentral. Electrification and double tracking of the Gemas to [[Johor Bahru]] section is expected to be completed by 2025. The '''[[Jungle Railway]]''' is the apt description for the eastern line between [[Tumpat]] (close to the Thai border) and [[Gemas]], including stops at [[Gua Musang]], [[Kuala Lipis]], [[Jerantut]] (for [[Taman Negara]]) and Wakaf Bahru (for [[Kota Bharu]] and the [[Perhentian Islands]]). The daytime services on this line use clean, modern and air-conditioned "Class 61" diesel multiple units (DMUs), which have replaced the old non-air-conditioned locomotive-hauled trains, though the seats do not recline, which can make them rather uncomfortable for longer journeys. No daytime services run along the entire line, so you will need to change trains at Kuala Lipis to travel all the way between Gemas and Tumpat. The eastern line also has one night express train (for which reservations are possible and recommended) going in each direction between Johor Bahru and Tumpat. These use older locomotive-hauled trainsets, which have air-con seats and '''Superior Night''' (ADNS) sleeper cars, which have upper and lower berths along each side, each bunk having a solid partition at each end and a side curtain for privacy. The carriages shake and rattle quite a bit but are comfortable and clean, though the toilets may come across as a little grimy. These trains have windows for both top and bottom bunks, unlike on Thai sleeper trains. A third line, known as the '''[https://www.mrl.com.my/en/ East Coast Rail Link]''' is under construction between [[Port Klang]] and [[Kota Bharu]], with plans for it to pass through [[Kuantan]] and [[Kuala Terengganu]] along the way. It is scheduled to be completed in 2027. Tickets can be booked and even printed online at KTMB's site. Enquiries and reservations can be made by phone at KTMB's call centres, {{Phone|+60 3 2267-1200}} (Malaysia) or, {{Phone|+65 6222-5165}} (Singapore). In East Malaysia, the only railway line is run by [https://railway.sabah.gov.my/ '''Jabatan Kereta Api Negeri Sabah''' (JKNS)]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Web-site in Malay only), running from Tanjung Aru near [[Kota Kinabalu]] to the town of [[Tenom]]. The '''[https://www.belmond.com/trains/asia/eastern-and-oriental-express/ Eastern & Oriental Express]''' was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and as of May 2025 only conducts luxury excursions within Malaysia. === By car === [[File:Malaysia Expressway Network.svg|thumb|A map of Malaysia's expressways (all are in Peninsular Malaysia; none are in Sabah or Sarawak), with dotted lines indicating proposed ones that have yet to be built]] {{main|Driving in Malaysia}} Malaysia has an excellent highway network with over {{km|2000}} of expressways, culminating in the '''North-South Expressway''' (''Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan'') along the West Coast from [[Johor Bahru]] at the border with [[Singapore]] all the way to [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]] in [[Kedah]] at the border with [[Thailand]]. There is also the '''East Coast Expressway''' (''Lebuhraya Pantai Timur''), crossing Peninsular Malaysia coast-to-coast from [[Kuala Lumpur]] to [[Kuantan]] before heading up north towards [[Kuala Terengganu]]. Petrol is slightly cheaper than market prices at RM1.90/litre (Ron 95) (in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak). Tolls are payable on expressways, but these are priced at varying degrees, ranging from expensive to reasonable: driving the length of the country {{km|734}} from the Thai border to Singapore costs RM108. While you can drive from Singapore to Thailand within a day on the West Coast, the highway system is considerably less developed on the East Coast, and even less so in Sabah and Sarawak, so be sure to factor in additional travel time if travelling in those areas. Toll prices for highways and causeways inside major cities, especially Kuala Lumpur, are priced exorbitantly, ranging from RM4 to RM7 for each exit. For those thinking of using GPS (Garmin, Papago, Galactio and Mio-Polnav), the Malaysia maps can be downloaded for free from http://www.malfreemaps.com/index.php{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} Garmin user lucky enough to have another choice from http://www.malsingmaps.com/portal/. Both party maps is contributed by the amazing non-profit group of people who share a common passion to make a GPS maps of Malaysia. While driving quality and habits in Malaysia are better than in most of the rest of Southeast Asia, they are not necessarily great, especially compared to what visitors from most Western countries are used to at home. Traffic in Malaysia drives on the left, a legacy left by the British. Beware reckless motorcyclists, especially at night, and especially if you are a pedestrian: locals typically disregard a red light for left turns, putting pedestrians at risk. As a motorist, at traffic lights, motorcyclists will accumulate in front of you — let them drive away first to avoid accidents. Care is needed when driving in larger cities, such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and George Town. Problems include apparently suicidal motorcyclists, congested traffic lanes throughout the day, and bewildering roads especially in the older parts of the city where planning was virtually nonexistent by the then British colonial occupiers. Out of town, however, cars and motorcycles are the best and sometimes the only way to explore the country. Some of the more rural areas have motorcycles and scooters to rent for as little as RM25/day, a great way to explore the local area or larger islands like Langkawi. As expected, most rental agencies will require a valid driving licence to be presented upon rental. Fuel levels are often compared before and after rental, and the vehicle is also checked for damage, so ensure everything is documented, and request a refund of any excess fuel if possible. The bigger car rental companies like Hertz and Avis may also require you to have a valid credit card where a deposit will be authorised but not deducted from (unless there is damage to the car). === By taxi === [[File:Taxi in Penang 02.JPG|thumb|Taxi in Penang]] Taxis are available in all cities and larger towns, although in smaller places you may have to call one (ask any shopkeeper or consult the yellow-pages). You will generally need to negotiate the fare in advance, although prepaid coupon taxis are usually available at airports. RM5 should suffice for a short cross-town trip, while RM100 is enough to hire a taxi for a full day. [[File:KotaKinabalu Sabah Taxi-waiting-for-passengers-01.jpg|thumb|Taxis in [[Kota Kinabalu]], [[Sabah]]]] Many taxis will refuse to use the meter, even though there is an official rate. Most taxis now have a sticker on the rear door informing tourists that haggling is prohibited. Taxi drivers, sensing that you are a tourist, may drive around and take a very long route to reach your destination. If you need a taxi late at night, it is best to use the dial-a-taxi service as there have been incidents in which taxis flagged down during those hours have been fake/unregistered. An unregistered taxi driver might rob or assault you with the help of other assailants. You are also more likely to get a metered taxi by flagging one at a street than at a taxi stand. It is advisable to study maps and compare fares on the internet before visiting the country. Knowing distances between places is helpful when negotiating with taxi drivers. They won't try to fool even a foreigner who demonstrates clearly that he knows the distance from point A to point B is 50 km and not 150 km. Do not accept the first rates for inter-city travels by car offered by hotels, as these could be as much as double normal prices. In this case, negotiate with a taxi driver directly for a better and fair price (for example, a hotel near Balok Beach, not very far from Kuantan, asked 800 RM for a ride to Johor Bahru, while a negotiated price with a taxi driver who could be found in downtown Kuantan came down to a normal 400 RM). But for all this you need to know the exact distance and if possible even the exact itinerary between your departure and arrival point. In Kuala Lumpur, the budget taxis are usually coloured Red and White (City taxi – these taxis are not allowed to travel out of the city e.g. to another state) or Yellow. Taxis are usually small saloons such as Proton Wira and run on NGV (Natural Gas). The Blue taxis are larger saloons or MPVs (Multi Purpose Vehicles) and more luxurious. These cost typically 25–30% more than the budget taxis & are normally available at taxi stands all over Kuala Lumpur including the major malls & hotels. The Red & White taxis can be hailed off the roads and are metered. Ensure that the taxi driver is a Malaysian (all drivers must have a taxi permit &amp; license with their photo on it) before you board, as unscrupulous taxi owners have been known to rent their taxi out to unlicensed stand-ins. All legal taxi drivers must be Malaysian citizens or permanent residents as the Malaysian government does not issue work visas to foreigners to drive taxis. Additionally, beware of unlicensed taxis ''(taxi sapu)'' at the airports. They can literally take you for a ride. There will be touts at the airports offering travellers their taxi service, even pretending to be legitimate. As unbelievable as it may sound, some have been known to rob first time visitors hundreds of ringgit for a single trip into the city, charging 100 times more than the correct fare. At the airports '''always''' get your taxi from the authorised operators' booths set up in the airport itself & '''never''' from anyone that solicits directly. They will always claim to be legitimate but are rarely licensed and may be unsafe. The taxi operator booths can provide you with receipts. Another tip is to book your taxis in advance. All good hotels' concierge will be able to assist you with this. If travelling in an unlicensed taxi you may not be covered by your travel insurance should that taxi be involved in a mishap. === By ride-hailing === The most popular ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/my/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former Southeast Asian operations. You can pay with your card (via the Grab app) or cash; most drivers have change. Rides within KL seldomly cost more than RM15. If it seems overly expensive at a certain moment, walk a little and check again — often near major points of interests ride are more expensive. ===By bicycle=== Although Malaysia's cycling infrastructure is not well developed, travelling by bicycle is a good way to enjoy the scenery while exploring rural Malaysia. Long-distance bicycle tours are sometimes organised by enthusiast groups, including some cross-border tours from Singapore. When cycling on the road, you are required to ride in a single file, and riding in the shoulder is forbidden. Cycling on pedestrian footpaths is also forbidden except for toy bicycles ridden by children under the age of 12. All bicycles must be equipped with a bell and independently-operated brakes on each wheel. A white front light and a red rear light are mandatory when cycling at night. It is legal cycle on any road unless there is a sign prohibiting it. While there is no specific law against cycling on expressways, you are highly advised not to do so for safety reasons; all PLUS expressways (including the Malaysian side of the Second Link from Singapore) and the LATAR expressway linking Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Selangor have signs prohibiting cyclists. ===By boat=== Ferries link the mainlands of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia with several outlying islands. The main ferries foreigners are likely to use are from [[Butterworth]] (for connections with the railway network) to [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] on Penang island, as well as ferries to Kuah in [[Langkawi]] from [[Kuala Perlis]] and [[Kuala Kedah]]. Direct ferries between Penang and Langkawi no longer operate. On the East Coast, ferries operate to the popular dive resort islands, including from [[Mersing]] to [[Pulau Tioman]], from [[Merang]] to [[Pulau Redang]] and from [[Kuala Besut]] to the [[Perhentian Islands]]. There are no ferries between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. ==See== [[File:Penang Malaysia Wat-Chaiya-Mangkalaram-Temple-01.jpg|thumb|Wat Chaiyamangkalaram in [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], [[Penang]]]] [[File:Cameron Highlands Tea Plantation 2012.JPG|thumb|Tea plantations in the [[Cameron Highlands]], [[Pahang]]]] Malaysia is a fascinating country with many faces. It's multi-ethnic and multi-cultural, and its attractions vary from the iconic Petronas Towers in bustling '''[[Kuala Lumpur]]''' to perfect sandy beaches lined with palm trees and dense jungles with orangutangs and tigers. There are various impressive '''national parks'''. Expeditions range from those where you hardly lose sight of the hotel to those where you are fully immersed in the jungle for weeks, with only the guide and yourself. To spot a tiger or wild elephant in its natural habitat you might have to spend more than a few days in the wild, but you'll have no trouble seeing smaller wildlife. '''[[Bako National Park]]''' is the oldest national park in Malaysia and one of the best places to see proboscis monkeys. The vast jungles of '''[[Taman Negara]]''' have become a popular destination for [[ecotourism|ecotourists]], just like the remote but gorgeous '''[[Gunung Mulu National Park]]''', a World Heritage Site famous for its limestone karst formations, stone pinnacles and huge caves. To escape from the muggy tropics, do as the English did and head up to the cool tea plantations of the '''[[Cameron Highlands]]''', the quaint Tudor-style village on '''[[Fraser's Hill]]''' or climb '''[[Mount Kinabalu]]''' in [[Sabah]]. For many people, Malaysia brings pictures of pristine beaches with great diving opportunities to mind - and for good reason. '''[[Sipadan]]''' off the coast of Sabah, and the beautiful '''[[Perhentian]]''' Islands are among the best (and most popular) places. Coastlines in the less industrialized parts of the country, in general, are well worth driving through for their natural beauty and relaxing seaside kampung (villages). Follow the crowds to the postcard perfect sands of the '''[[Langkawi]]''' Islands, where you can have a cocktail on the beach and stay in one of the many resorts. If you're most interested in taking the pulse of a city, don't miss '''[[Kuala Lumpur]]''''s crazy quilt ultra-modern skyline, including the famous Petronas Twin Towers. [[George Town (Malaysia)|'''George Town''']], the capital city of [[Penang]], is known for its great food, colonial architecture, and relatively long-standing and institutionalized Chinese, Peranakan and Indian communities, who share the city with ethnic Malays, Thais and Eurasians. '''[[Ipoh]]''' is a good choice if you enjoy a somewhat slower paced city that features elegant colonial-era buildings from about 100 years ago, and '''[[Malacca]]''' is for those who want to trace the colonial and imperial history of Malaysia several hundred years further back. For a completely different experience, head to '''[[Kota Bharu]]''' to discover a unique conservative Islamic regional culture influenced by [[Thailand]], only a few kilometres away, or visit the diverse cities of [[East Malaysia]], like '''[[Kuching]]''' and '''[[Kota Kinabalu]]'''. Especially when travelling with children, consider visiting one of the country's excellent zoos, such as [[Taiping]] Zoo, [[Kuala Lumpur]]'s Zoo Negara, [[Johor Bahru|Johor]] Zoo and [[Malacca]]'s Zoo. == Do == [[File:Perhentian Beach (106319844).jpg|thumb|A beach on [[Perhentian Islands]], [[Terengganu]].]] [[File:Amphiprion clarkii sipadan.jpg|thumb|A first glance at Sipadan's colourful underwater life]] Malaysia has excellent '''[[scuba diving]]'''. Some of the more popular spots are the islands off the [[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] of peninsular Malaysia ([[Perhentian]], [[Redang]], [[Tioman]] and many more), although the dive season is limited to April to September. However, the most famous dive site &mdash; often ranked among the best in the world &mdash; is [[Sipadan]], off the easternmost tip of [[Sabah|Malaysian Borneo]]. There are many other less well known sites, like [[Layang Layang]]. ===Whitewater Rafting=== You can find tame Grade I to incredibly difficult and dangerous Grade V rapids in Malaysia's many national parks: * Jeram Besu - Grade I-III - [[Pahang]] * [[Telom River]] - Grade V - [[Pahang]] * Kuala Perahu - [[Pahang]] * Lipis River - [[Pahang]] * Anak Jelai River - Grade I-II - [[Pahang]] * Tembeling River - Grade I-II - [[Pahang]] * Sedim River - Grade III-IV - [[Kedah]] * Sungai Selangor - Grade I-III - [[Selangor]] * Kiulu River - Grade II - [[Sabah]] * Padas River - Grade III-IV - Sabah * Sungai Itek (Kampar River) - Grade I-III - [[Perak]] * Sungkai River - Grade I-II - Perak * Singoh River - Grade V - Perak * Endau River - [[Johor]] * Nenggiri River - Grade I-III [[Kelantan]] * [[Kuala Kubu Bahru]], [[Selangor]] ===[[Martial arts]]=== [[File:Men Pencak Silat Match Malaysia vs Vietnam.jpg|thumb|A silat match taking place.]] Malaysia is home to a uniquely Malay style of martial arts known as '''silat'''. Silat tournaments are held between different schools in the country, and the Southeast Asian Games is the premier international tournament in silat, with competitors from the neighbouring countries as well. There is also an equally traditional stylised dance version of silat called ''silat gayung'', which is quite worth seeing if you have the chance. In addition, there are also many kung fu masters among the ethnic Chinese community, and Malaysia is consistently one of the top performers in international wushu competitions. ===Music=== Malaysia is home to a uniquely Malay form of singing called ''dikir barat''. Dikir barat is typically sung by a choir, though there may also be solo parts, and is also either sung ''a capella'', or accompanied only by percussion instruments. Dikir barat competitions are fairly popular among the Malay community, and are frequently broadcast on Malaysian national television. == Buy == ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malaysian ringgit | currencyCode=RM | date=January 2025 | USD=4.3 | EUR=5.0 | GBP=5.6 | SGD=3.5 | AUD=2.8 | IDR=2.8 | THB=1.3 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/myr-malaysian-ringgit XE.com] }} The Malaysian currency is the '''Malaysian ringgit''', abbreviated as '''RM''' (ISO code: '''MYR'''). It is divided into 100 '''sen''' (cents). The ringgit used to be referred to as the dollar and you may see the '$' symbol on older notes. Coins in Malaysia are issued in denominations of RM0.05 (silver), RM0.10 (silver), RM0.20 (silver or gold), and RM0.50 (silver or gold). Banknotes in Malaysia are issued in denominations of RM1 (blue), RM5 (green), RM10 (red), RM20 (orange), RM50 (green/blue) and RM100 (purple). 5 sen coins are mainly given as change in large establishments or supermarkets whereas peddlers and street vendors might be reluctant to accept them. The Singapore and Brunei dollars are also known as ''ringgit'' in Malay, so when near border areas you might want to check to be sure which currency they are quoting the price in. ====ATMs==== Widely available in cities, but do stock up on cash if heading out into the smaller islands or the jungle. Many ATMs, especially those of local banks, won't charge a fee for withdrawals in Malaysia (e.g. CIMB) — one of the upsides of Islamic banking. However, in 2024, Euronet acquired MEPS and is now the largest non-bank ATM provider in Malaysia. They are well known for their high fees and bad customer experience. Try to avoid them! Many ATMs (like Euronet) will offer to do the currency conversion for you, which is disadvantageous (often involving a markup of 4–14%) — this is how they make money. So, '''always decline [[Money#Dynamic currency conversion|currency conversion]]''' to your home currency! Due to fraud risk, many Malaysian ATMs do not allow you to withdraw using foreign debit cards. If your card is rejected, try another ATM. If you call your bank or credit company, they are often not aware of what happened because the transaction is declined by the Malaysia bank. Make sure to bring cash or other forms of money in case your debit card is rejected. ====Credit cards==== They can be used in most shops, restaurants and hotels, although '''skimming''' can be a problem in dodgier outlets. For credit card usage, make sure your credit/debit card is chip based as most merchants no longer accept '''magnetic strips''' based cards. ====Currency exchange==== Counters can easily found in major shopping areas and have a better exchange rate than in banks and airports. Be sure to say the amount you wish to exchange and ask for the 'best quote' as rates displayed on the board are often negotiable, especially for larger amounts. Large foreign banknotes, such as €500, are almost impossible to change for a good rate in some areas, especially in Sabah or Sarawak, where the banks offer a much lower rate comparing to the one you'd get if changing a banknote of smaller amount. Some money exchangers in Kota Kinabalu or Kuching even may refuse your business if you have large foreign banknotes, so the best option is to bring smaller notes unless you are willing to shop around. '''Foreign currencies''' are ''not'' generally accepted as is. The major exception is Singapore dollars, which may be accepted in Johor Bahru, but at a steep penalty. They're also accepted by KTMB and toll roads, but at an incredibly unfavorable 1:1 exchange rate, an anomaly dating back to the 1970s when the ringgit was interchangeable with the Singapore dollar. ====Banking==== Banks in Malaysia do handle international transactions. These ranges from a nominal fee if you are an account holder to a slightly more expensive amount if you are only walking in to use a certain service. British banks HSBC and Standard Chartered, and Singaporean bank UOB have a presence in Malaysia. Citibank has exited the Malaysian retail banking market, with all its retail banking assets having been taken over by UOB. Local banking giants are Maybank, RHB, Hong Leong Bank, Public Bank & CIMB Bank, & they are a very good alternative to the earlier mentioned banks, especially in terms of pricing, local knowledge & presence as well as international services available e.g. money transfers. For any enquiries and transactions, get a number, sit down and wait for your turn to be served. (There is no need to queue while you wait in air-conditioned comfort!) Banks are open Monday-Friday from 9:30AM-4PM and selected banks are open Saturday 9:30AM–11:30AM except on the first and third Saturdays of each month. In the states of Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, they are open Sunday to Thursday 9:30AM–4PM. === Costs === Most Western visitors will find Malaysia quite cheap, although it is noticeably more expensive than neighbouring Indonesia. You can live in hostel dorms and feast on hawker food for less than RM50 per day, but you'll wish to double this for comfort, particularly if travelling in more expensive East Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is also generally more expensive than the rest of the country. At the other end of the spectrum, luxury hotels and air fares are also quite affordable, with even the fanciest 5-star hotels costing less than RM400/night. [[File:Bukit bintang from kl monorail 2009.jpg|thumb|''Bukit Bintang'', a popular shopping area in [[Kuala Lumpur]]]] ===Tipping=== Tipping is not customary in Malaysia. A service charge of 10% is included in total bill in most air conditioned restaurants, but otherwise, you are not expected to pay anything more than what is stated in the bill. Most expensive restaurants, bars and hotels may indicate prices in the form of RM19++ ("plus plus"), meaning that sales tax (6%) and service charge (10%) will be added to the bill. Hotel tax of 5% may also be added to this. === Shopping === [[Kuala Lumpur]] is a shopping mecca for clothes, electronics, watches and computer goods, with very competitive prices by any standard. Local Malaysian brands include Royal Selangor pewter (thanks to KL's tin-mining heritage), British India and Eilanto. Traditional Malaysian fabrics (''batik'') are a popular souvenir. The cheapest place to easily buy ethnic souvenirs (especially wood-based) is in [[Kuching]], East Malaysia, and the most expensive place is in the major, posh [[Kuala Lumpur]] shopping centres. In fact, Malaysia has over 1000 shopping complexes, but many, especially outside the capital, have low occupancy due to oversupply. In general shops are open 10:30AM–9:30/10PM in the large cities. They open and close for business earlier in the smaller towns and rural areas. Some shops may also be closed on certain days, such as in [[Malacca]] where many shops and restaurants close on Tuesday. For great second-hand shopping from locals try [https://www.carousell.com.my/ Carousell] or [https://www.mudah.my/ Mudah.my]. If you buy too much while shopping in Malaysia (which is quite easy to do), surface postage rates are very reasonable. Excess luggage at the airport is still high but not as high as in many other countries. Check first with your airline. == Eat == [[File:Nasi Lemak dengan Chili Nasi Lemak dan Sotong Pedas, di Penang Summer Restaurant.jpg|thumb|''Nasi lemak'' coconut rice with ''sotong pedas'' (spicy squid), ''sambal'' chili paste, boiled egg, slices of cucumber, ''ikan bilis'' fried anchovies and peanuts served at a restaurant in Penang]] {{main|Cuisine of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei}} The crossroads of Malay, Chinese and [[Indian cuisine]], Malaysia is an excellent place to eat (''makan'' in Malay). Look out for regional specialities and Nyonya (Peranakan) cuisine, the fusion between Malay and [[Chinese cuisine|Chinese cooking]]. There is even unique Eurasian cooking to be found in the Portuguese Settlement in Malacca, the heartland of the Portuguese Eurasian community. Malaysians are very proud of their cooking and most towns or even villages have their own delicious specialities such as [[Penang]] ''char kway teow'', [[Kajang]] satay, [[Ipoh]] bean sprout chicken, [[Sarawak]] ''laksa'', [[Kelantan]]ese ''nasi dagang'' and [[Sabah]]an ''hinava''. Most eateries rely on word of mouth for advertising and are frequently located in the most inconvenient, out-of-the-way places, so you might want to try asking the locals for their personal recommendations. If you intend to travel around Malaysia trying out the local food, don't be fooled by the names. Sometimes two entirely different dishes from different parts of the country can be known by the same name. For example, ''laksa'' refers to completely different noodle dishes in [[Penang]] and [[Sarawak]]. Generally, you can eat pretty much anywhere in Malaysia. Food outlets are comparatively clean – the only thing you might avoid when you frequent the street or hawker stalls is ice for your drinks, since the blocks of ice used there might not be up to your hygienic standards. In actual restaurants this is not a problem. Also you might want to avoid ordering water from hawker stalls or the ''mamak'' restaurants as you may be served unboiled tap water. Cheaper places often do not display prices; most will charge tourists honestly, but check prices before ordering to make sure. Eating habits run the gamut, but most foods are eaten by '''fork and spoon''': push and cut with the fork in the left hand, and eat with the spoon in the right. As eating is a favourite 'pastime' of Malaysians, the majority are adept at using chopsticks, regardless of background. Noodles and Chinese dishes typically come with these, while Malay and Indian food is traditionally eaten by hand, though a fork and spoon are often used to eat Malay and Indian food in restaurants and can be requested if not provided. If eating by hand, '''always use only your right hand''' to handle the food, as Malays and Indians traditionally use their left hand to handle dirty things. When eating with chopsticks at Chinese restaurants, take note of the usual etiquette and most importantly, ''do not'' stick your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice. This is reminiscent of incense sticks burning at the temple and has connotations of wishing death on those around you. If eating in a group, serving dishes are always shared, but you'll get your own bowl of rice and soup. === Where to eat === [[File:Beaufort Sabah KedaiKopi-01.jpg|thumb|The interior of a kedai kopi near the railway station in [[Beaufort (Sabah)|Beaufort, Sabah]]]] The cheapest places to eat are '''hawker stalls''' and '''coffeeshops''', known as ''kedai kopi'' in Malay or ''kopitiam'' in Hokkien. These shops sell, besides coffee, many other types of food and drinks. Particularly popular and tasty are '''''mamak''''' stalls, run by Indian Muslims and serving up localized Indian fare like ''roti canai''. Most hawker stalls stay open till late and some even operate on shifts so you can find the same stall offering different food at different points throughout the day. You can also do take away from any stall: just ask for ''bungkus'' (Malay) or ''ta pao'' (Cantonese). A hawker meal will rarely cost you over RM5. Hygiene standards in Malaysia are generally good by Southeast Asian standards, and much better than in the Indian subcontinent. Just be observant, and generally speaking, if a stall is patronised by locals, it should be safe to eat there. One step up on the scale is the '''''kedai makanan''''' or the more Western-style '''''restoran'''''. A type to look out for is the '''''nasi kandar''''' restaurant, which originated in [[Penang]] but now can be found in virtually every Malaysian city, with a wide variety of Indian-style curries and toppings to ladle on top of your rice. The Malay answer to nasi kandar is known as '''''nasi campur''''', of which a subtype is '''''nasi padang''''', originating among the Minangkabau people from [[Padang]] in what is today [[Indonesia]]. The Chinese equivalent is known as '''economy rice''' or '''mixed rice''', or by its Cantonese name '''''chap fan''''' (雜飯). However, unlike nasi kandar or nasi campur, Chinese-style economy rice is typically ''not'' halal. '''Seafood restaurants''' (''makanan laut'') are comparatively pricey but still an excellent value by most standards; do check prices before ordering though. Local prawns are gigantic, Chinese-style steamed fish is a treat and crab served with sticky chilli sauce is particularly popular. Last but not least, some less adventurous options. '''Food courts''' in shopping malls are a good way to sample local delicacies in air-conditioned comfort, paying only a small premium over hawker prices. And yes, you can also find McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut and the usual suspects plus imitators throughout Malaysia. === Dietary restrictions === [[File:Su Xin Vegetarian Restaurant.jpg|thumb|A vegetarian restaurant in [[Johor Bahru]], [[Johor]].]] Being a Muslim-majority country, finding '''halal''' food in Malaysia is easy, but most Chinese stalls and restaurants, as well as those serving some indigenous ethnic groups of East Malaysia such as the Iban and Kadazan, are ''not'' halal. Ask if in doubt. Meals at Malay restaurants and Western fast food restaurants like McDonald's, Kentucky Fried Chicken and Pizza Hut are halal. Restaurants at major hotels are not certified 'Halal' as they serve alcohol as well, but with the exception of Chinese restaurants, they generally don't serve pork. Local Muslims will eat at Western, Chinese and Indian eateries if there is a halal sign on the walls. Most of the restaurants tend to display their halal certification or halal sign on their places. Halal certification is awarded and enforced by a government agency, usually JAKIM. There are ''no'' '''kosher''' establishments in Malaysia, so kosher-observant Jewish visitors will have to bring their own food with them and supplement it with fresh fruit. Kosher grocery stores and restaurants can be found in neighbouring [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], the [[Philippines]] and [[Vietnam]], so you might want to stop in one of those countries to stock up before entering Malaysia. '''Vegetarianism''' is well-understood by the Chinese and Indian communities (not so by the Muslim Malays and other indigenous minorities) and many restaurants or hawker stalls will be able to come up with something on request (DO state "no meat, no fish, no seafood – ASK for vegetables and/or eggs ONLY"), but don't rely entirely on menu descriptions: innocuous-seeming dishes like "fried vegetables" etc. will often contain shrimp paste (''belacan'', commonly used in Malay and spicy Chinese dishes), fish sauce, etc. or even pork bits or lard in non-halal Chinese restaurants, so if in doubt, ask. Indian restaurants usually have very good vegetarian selections – the ''roti'' (Indian flat bread – any kind; including roti canai, roti naan, capati, tosai) are good choices, and DO insist on being given ''dhal'' (lentil-based curry dip) lest you'll be given a fish curry dip. Purely vegetarian Chinese Buddhist restaurants (often serving remarkable "mock meat" products made from tofu, gluten etc.) are quite easy to find in big urban areas with a large ethnic Chinese population. Getting vegetarian food in rural areas, especially those near fishing villages or in Muslim/Malay-dominated regions, may be more difficult, but learning some basic Malay vocabulary will go a long way to help you get your message across – see the [[Malay phrasebook#Eating|Malay phrasebook]]. Upmarket Western restaurants, such as those serving Italian cuisine, will normally have some good vegetarian options. Be careful about Chinese bakery items too, as many seemingly vegetarian items use pork lard to make the pastry. '''Veganism''' is rarely understood in this part of the world and is largely mistaken as a synonym for vegetarianism. The safest bet for a vegan is to patronize a Chinese Buddhist vegetarian restaurant, since Chinese cuisine traditionally does not use dairy products. However, check to ensure that your dish does not contain eggs. And if you're still feeling uneasy or unsure, do not hesitate to ask. == Drink == [[File:Cheng Ho Tea House.JPG|thumb|A tea house in [[Melaka]].]] Malaysians like both coffee (''kopi'') and tea (''teh''), especially the national drink ''teh tarik'' ("pulled tea"), made by the ''Mamak'' (Indian Muslim) community, and named after the theatrical 'pulling' motion used to pour it. By default, both will be served hot, sweet and with a dose of condensed milk; request ''teh o'' to skip the milk, ''teh ais'' for iced milky tea, or ''teh o ais'' for iced milkless tea. Drinking with no sugar at all is considered odd, but asking for ''kurang manis'' (less sugar) will ease the pain. However, if you really want no sugar at all, you can try asking for "teh kosong." Malaysia produces its own tea, but little of it is exported except to neighbouring Singapore due to high domestic demand, so be sure to try some locally-grown tea when you are here. BOH, with its plantations in [[Cameron Highlands]], is Malaysia's largest tea brand. Another peculiar local favourite is the kopi tongkat ali ginseng, a mixture of coffee, a local aphrodisiacal root, and ginseng served with condensed milk that's touted as an alternative to viagra and red bull combined and is usually advertised with a picture of a bed broken in half. Other popular nonalcoholic options include the chocolate drink Milo and lime juice (''limau''). Freshly made fruit juices are also widely available, as well as a wide range of canned drinks (some familiar to many foreigners, some less so). There is also a local drink comprised of white soya milk and black grass jelly (''cincau'') called ''soya cincau''. It can be ordered at most hawker centres and local roadside cafes (''kedai kopi/kopitiam''). === Alcohol === [[Image:Gawai.JPG|thumb|Tuak is widely consumed during Gawai Dayak festival and Christmas Day.]] Although alcohol consumption is illegal for Muslims in Malaysia, licensed venues are permitted to sell alcohol to non-Muslims. With the exception of tax-free islands ([[Labuan]], [[Langkawi]], [[Tioman]]) and duty free shops (for example in [[Johor Bahru]]), prices are comparatively high, with a can of beer costing RM7.50 or more even in supermarkets or 7-Eleven stores. However, in East Malaysia, smuggled liquors are widely available. The legal drinking age in Malaysia is 21. In East Malaysia, particularly [[Sarawak]], ''tuak'' is a common affair for any celebration or festivals such as Gawai Dayak and Christmas Day. ''Tuak'' is made from fermented rice to which sugar, honey or other various condiments are sometimes added. It is normally served lukewarm without ice. Visitors can choose from 'strong' flavour of tuak (which is normally fermented for years), or 'mild' flavour (which is sometimes prepared only a week or even a day before). In [[Sabah]], cheap liquors are very widely available at most supermarkets and mini markets in the state. Other alcoholic drinks such as beer and whisky are also widely available. On the other hand, ''tuak'' in [[Kelantan]] also can be considered as a liquor since that it contains a trace amount of fermented ''nipah'' or sap juice. The alcohol content in Kelantan ''tuak'' can easily reach 50% after 3 days from the time it was extracted. [[File:Tapai peuyeum Pasar Baru.JPG|thumb|Cassava tapai is shown in plastic bags in the foreground]] ''Tapai'' consists of cassava (less often, rice) that is fermented and eaten as a food (though the liquid in the bottom can also be drunk). As it is commonly eaten during Hari Raya Puasa, the major Muslim holiday celebrating the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, it is interesting that Islamic legal authorities associated with the Islamist opposition Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) have given Muslims a special dispensation from laws against consuming alcohol, in the case of tapai. ===Water safety=== There are differences of opinion on the safety of Malaysian tap water. See [[#Stay healthy]]. == Sleep == Malaysia has ample affordable accommodations in all of its cities and towns, with full range from budget until luxury ones. Service charges and taxes are not yet part of the advertised price so be sure to add 16% to the listed price. Hotels and hostels are required to charge a '''tourism tax''' on international visitors: RM10 per room per night, which may not be included in the advertised rates. ===Budget=== Budget hotels and youth [[hostels]] are available in most cities and around most tourist destinations. As with most budget accommodations, some are more reliable than others. Be cautious when selecting budget accommodation to avoid places that house illegal vice activities. Larger cities will have YMCAs that are safe bets. Another noticeable budget hotel chain is [http://www.tunehotels.com Tune Hotels,] an affiliate of the budget airline, Air Asia. They are expanding and have hotels at numerous locations throughout the country ===Mid-range=== Mid-range hotels are readily available just about anywhere. Prices of 3–4 star hotels are upwards from RM100 and are generally reliable in terms of quality. ===Splurge=== Malaysia is home to some of the most affordable 5-star hotels, service apartments, and resorts in the world. They are found in larger cities like Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching and also in some coastal towns and areas. Also, almost all islands have upscale resorts and spas for the wealthy traveller. == Learn == Malaysia's universities are generally well-regarded and draw exchange students from near and far. Among Malaysia's universities, the undisputed most prestigious one is the '''[https://www.um.edu.my University of Malaya]''' (UM), located in Kuala Lumpur. In addition, several foreign universities have established campuses in Malaysia. == Work == Obtaining a working visa takes some effort. The easiest way to work in Malaysia is probably to work for an overseas company and get posted to Malaysia. The [https://www.imi.gov.my/ Malaysian Immigration Department website] has basic advice. In order to obtain a work permit, you need to have an offer from your future employer who will have to do the paperwork for you. It's very expensive and comes with many restrictions if a company wants to hire a foreigner and as such next to impossible. As stated above, a feasible way is to get transferred. Finding a job is otherwise unlikely unless you are married to a local and even then it remains difficult. Working days in [[Kelantan]], [[Terengganu]] and [[Kedah]] are from Sunday to Thursday, with Fridays and Saturdays being weekend holidays, similar to most Middle Eastern countries in alignment with Friday prayers of Muslims. The other states observe the normal weekend in the rest of the world. [[Johor]] adopts the Friday-Saturday weekend, though businesses may still stick to the normal week cycle to accommodate Singaporean practices. == Stay safe == {{infobox|Emergency numbers|Central emergency number '''999'''}} Though the crime rate is higher than in neighbouring Singapore, Malaysia is generally a safe country for visitors. Crimes towards tourists are usually restricted to bag-snatching, pickpocketing and petty theft. It is important to keep a close eye on valuable items. Theft is more common in crowded places, such as markets and on public transport. Generally, if you avoid deserted areas, get back to your hotel before midnight and use your common sense, you're unlikely to be assaulted. Homosexuality is a crime and gay bars may be raided by police; gay and lesbian tourists should be discreet and avoid any public displays of affection. ===Crime=== {{Cautionbox|Malaysia treats '''drug offences''' severely. With limited exceptions, the '''death penalty''' is possible for those convicted of trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting more than 15 g of heroin, 30 g of morphine, 30 g of cocaine, 500 g of cannabis, 200 g of cannabis resin and 1.2 kg of opium, and possession of these quantities is all that is needed for you to be convicted. If the death penalty is not imposed, lengthy imprisonment and mandatory whipping is still expected. Even if a person suspected of drug trafficking is acquitted, Malaysian authorities can still detain that person without any charges for 2 years. Unauthorised consumption can result in up to 10 years' jail, or a heavy fine, or both. You can be charged for unauthorised consumption as long as traces of illicit drugs are found in your system, even if you can prove that they were consumed outside the country and you can be charged for trafficking as long as drugs are found in bags that are in your possession or in your room, even if they aren't yours and regardless of whether you're aware of them - therefore be vigilant of your possessions.|lastedit=permanent}} There have been some reports of [[pickpockets]] and snatch-and-run thieves in some of the major cities like [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Petaling Jaya]] and [[Johor Bahru]]. As a general precaution, never carry your bags on the side facing the road and always walk facing the oncoming traffic. Additionally, walk a few feet deeper away from the roads. Women travellers should take extra precautions at night. Johor Bahru is known for having a relatively higher crime rate compared to the rest of Malaysia, and armed robberies and snatch thefts could happen at night in run-down areas of the city. Travel documents and valuables are best deposited in a hotel safe. In Malaysia, some crimes are punished with caning, known locally as whipping. Being convicted of rape, vandalism, illegal entry, bribery, overstaying your visa, and certain other crimes could get you caned. '''This is no slap on the wrist!''' Strokes from the thick rattan cane are ''very painful'', will take some time to heal and probably leave you with a permanent scar. Credit card fraud is a growing problem in this country, especially if you order in an on-line store during your stay. Use credit cards only in reputable shops. Look for online reviews but recognise that even these can be astroturfed to provide a higher average review than the company deserves. ===Corruption=== While not as bad as the likes of Thailand, Vietnam or Indonesia, corruption remains a significant issue in Malaysia. Traffic police have been known to pull over motorists to demand bribes of RM100-200; this tends to happen somewhat more often to those driving cars with Singapore licence plates. Nevertheless, there have been some crackdowns on this, and bribery is punishable by up to 20 years in jail. Anyone who tries to bribe public officials may be arrested on the spot and placed in a lock-up overnight to be charged for the offence in the morning. If this happens on a Friday or on eve of public holidays, you will find yourself spending a few nights in the lock-up as the courts are only open Monday to Friday. Do not let this dissuade you from requesting help — generally Malaysian police are helpful to tourists. Customs and immigration officers are comparatively cleaner than other Southeast Asian countries, though there have been isolated cases where tourists are demanded bribes from immigration officials. Do check your passport before driving off when entering by land from the Singapore border though, as immigration officers have been known to "forget" to stamp people in, and you will be subject to fines of several thousand ringgit for illegal entry when you try to leave Malaysia if your passport was not stamped on entry. * {{listing | name=Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) | alt=Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia(SPRM) | url=https://www.sprm.gov.my/ | email=info@sprm.gov.my | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1800-88-6000 | fax=+603-8870-0934 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6741935 | lastedit=2025-03-11 | content=The main anti-corruption agency for Malaysia. A list of MACC branches can be found [https://www.sprm.gov.my/index.php?id=21&page_id=75&articleid=430 here]. }} ===Traffic safety=== When on foot, be careful when crossing the street. Vehicles will often ignore pedestrian (zebra) crossings. In addition, reports of road rage during accidents are still common, so if you are involved in an accident be very careful when negotiating or dial 999 for help. ===Other=== Public demonstrations are uncommon in Malaysia due to police crackdowns. Should one occur it may be dealt with in a heavy-handed manner, so '''avoid them at all costs'''. It is generally not allowed for non-Muslims or non-Sunnis to proselytize. In particular, attempting to persuade Muslims to convert out of their religion is illegal, and if you are caught doing this, you will be expelled from the country or even face criminal responsibilities. ===Natural disasters=== Peninsular Malaysia is largely free from [[earthquakes]] as there are no nearby faultlines, though tremors can occasionally be felt in the upper storeys of tall buildings when a major quake occurs in neighbouring Indonesia. East Malaysia, on the other hand, especially the area around Mount Kinabalu, does experience occasional earthquakes (such as the fatal one occurring in 2015). [[Cyclones|Typhoons]] are also exceedingly rare, though one hit the southern part of [[Johor]] in 2001. However, the Nov-Jan monsoon season often results in flooding due to torrential rains, and landslides are known to occur, most notably on the East Coast. [[Tsunamis]] are a rare occurrence, though Penang and a few islands on the north of the West Coast were hit by the infamous tsunami in 2004. == Stay healthy == There are differences of opinion about whether and to what degree '''[[tap water]]''' is safe to drink. It is treated and monitored, but the condition of the pipes is not always reliable. Therefore, you may want to boil or filter it first just to be on the safe side, as most locals do. You can also buy bottled water, which is very inexpensive. Ice in drinks might be made from tap water, but nowadays, most restaurants and even roadside stalls use the cylindrical variety with a hollow tube down the middle that are mass-produced at ice factories and are safer to consume. Heat exhaustion is rare, but do consume lots of fluids, use a hat and sunscreen and shower often! Peninsular Malaysia is largely [[malaria]]-free, but there is a significant risk in Borneo especially in inland and rural areas. [[Dengue fever]] occurs throughout Malaysia in both urban and rural areas, and can be avoided only by preventing [[mosquito]] bites. The mosquito that transmits dengue feeds throughout the daytime, and is most active at dawn and dusk. If you experience a sudden fever with aches and lethargy, seek medical attention immediately. Aspirin and ibuprofen should not be used until dengue fever has been ruled out. Mosquito repellents (''ubat nyamuk'') are widely available. Be careful with mosquito coils, which can easily start fires: set them on a plate or other non-flammable surface and extinguish them before going to sleep. Haze from burning vegetation in neighbouring Indonesia may come and go without warning from the months of May to August so travellers with respiratory ailments should come prepared. Most public washrooms charge a small fee (generally between RM0.20-RM2.00, usually depending on the standard of the facilities), so keep some loose change to hand. If the condition of the sitting toilets is questionable, use the squatting toilets instead - both are usually available, and some believe that the latter are more hygienic and (if you can get used to them) are just as easy to use as sitting toilets. ===Healthcare=== [[File:Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital.JPG|thumb|Public hospital in [[Kuantan]], [[Pahang]]]] The standard of healthcare in Malaysia is generally high, and Malaysia is rapidly emerging as a popular destination for medical tourism, with treatment costs in general far cheaper than in neighbouring Singapore and Western countries. Almost all Malaysian doctors are able to speak English fluently, while most other medical staff are able to converse in at least basic English. Malaysia has a public and private health care system. Health services are adequate in large cities, with English-speaking doctors. Some staff have been trained abroad. In the private sector in particular, the medical staff is often made up of well-trained professionals. Outside urban areas, access to health services and the quality of care vary. Government healthcare facilities are cheap but good, though they tend to be understaffed and consequently, waiting times are long. Due to the shorter waiting times and sometimes hotel-like levels of comfort, most expatriates and visitors prefer to seek out private medical care. Dental services are readily available and prices are often lower than in western countries. However, root canal treatment is considerably more expensive than in western countries, as it is only performed by dental surgeons and not by ordinary dentists. Mental health services are available at least in the capital. In the rest of the country, they may not be available very much. Pharmacies can be found in larger shopping centres and painkillers are available in almost every shop. Prescription medicines may not be available from pharmacies at any time, but only when a pharmacist is present. He or she may be there for part of the day, usually on weekdays. When visiting a doctor, medicines are often available directly from the doctor's surgery or from the hospital pharmacy. When travelling to Malaysia, you should take out comprehensive travel insurance. Doctors and hospitals usually require payment in advance, especially for foreigners. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Keep all receipts and certificates you receive. You can apply for reimbursement afterwards from your insurance company. Services in the private sector are more expensive than in the public sector. You should check the details on the spot. Be vigilant when using private medical services. Doctors may prescribe expensive treatments, tests and medicines that are unnecessary. This is especially true for tourists. Malaysia's largest private healthcare groups are '''[https://www.parkwaypantai.com Parkway Pantai]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', which operates the well-known Gleaneagles and Pantai hospital chains, and '''[http://www.kpjhealth.com.my KPJ Healthcare]'''. Private medical costs can be high and having [[travel insurance]] is a very good idea. Public hospitals and most private hospitals offer 24-hour on-call medical services. In some Malaysian tourist resorts, you can ask for a doctor at the hotel reception. Pressure chamber treatment is available in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kuantan, Lumut, Ipoh, Sabah and Labuan. There is limited availability of rental equipment at hospitals. In most cases, assistive devices have to be purchased. ===Food=== While in general Malaysian food is not unhealthy, the fact that eateries and cafés add unnecessary amounts of sugar to drinks and snacks can be a problem. Also, the sheer amount of these places will always give you an opportunity to have an unhealthy snack or drink, no matter where you are. Be aware, and for example try to have your drinks without sugar, especially fruit shakes, which should come sweet naturally. == Respect == {{infobox|What's in a name?|*Malaysian '''Malay''' names are usually given name + ''bin'' or ''binti'' (son/daughter) + father's name. ''Mohammed bin Abdullah'' would usually be called Mohammed by his friends, and Mr. Mohammed for business. Sometimes, the person's given name appears after the Mohammed or Abdul (example: ''Mohammed Faizal bin Abdul Nasser'') so, in such a case, he would usually be addressed as Mr. Faizal.<br /> *'''Chinese''' place their family name first, so ''Tan Ah Heng'' is Mr Tan for business and Ah Heng to his friends. Many have Western names, so he may also be known as ''John Tan''.<br> *'''Indian''' names are complex, but the south Indian (Tamil) names usually found in Malaysia have two patterns: either given name + ''a/l'' or ''a/p'' (''anak lelaki'' (son of)/''anak perempuan'' (daughter of)) + father's name, or father's initial + given name. Given names are often long and may be abbreviated, so ''Thirumurugan a/l Govindasamy'' may just be addressed as Thiru by his friends and Mr Thiru for business.<br /> *'''Other ethnic minorities''', such as the Iban and Kadazan have their own naming conventions. The foolproof method, therefore, is to ''ask'' how the person would like to be addressed.}} When entering a home or a place of worship, always take off your shoes (this is often required at hostels too). Also, never eat with your left hand or give a gift with your left hand, and never point with your forefinger (you may use a closed fist with the thumb instead). Do not point with your feet or touch a person's head either. Swastikas are commonly seen in Hindu and Buddhist temples, and are regarded as a religious symbol by these communities. They emphatically do '''not''' represent Nazism or anti-Semitism. ===Politics=== As in many countries, it is best not to criticise the government or the Malaysian royal families as a visitor. You may hear Malaysians criticise their own government, but you do not need to take sides; just listen and feel free to talk about your feelings about your own government. The '''bumiputera''' policy (laws granting ethnic Malays special rights not granted to the other races) is a very polarising and sensitive issue, and best avoided as a conversation topic with Malays. Another sensitive issue to be aware of is Israel: Malaysia is one of several countries that do not recognize Israel, and Malaysian Muslims are ardent in their support for Palestine. In addition, many Malaysians associate Jews in general with Israel or otherwise have prejudices against Jews; however, these feelings do not necessarily extend to individual Jewish people, and violence against Jewish visitors is unlikely. ===Dress=== It is advisable to dress respectfully, particularly in rural areas (wearing trousers or a long skirt, not shorts and covering your shoulders is recommended but not essential). In more cosmopolitan cities such as Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Malacca, Ipoh and Johor Bahru, as well as East Malaysian states (Sabah and Sarawak) attitudes are more liberal. Women are not legally required to wear the hijab, known locally as the ''tudung'', except when entering mosques, where it is required for both Muslims and non-Muslims. ===Sexuality=== As a predominantly Muslim country, Malaysia tends to be conservative about sexuality. Public showing of affection in the more diverse, larger cities is tolerated but might invite unnecessary attention from the public. In more rural areas and in very conservative states like [[Kelantan]] and [[Terengganu]] on the East Coast of the Peninsula it is frowned upon and is best avoided. '''Don't kiss your partner in public'''; you'll inflame local sensibilities. Big cities like Kuala Lumpur have a fairly active gay scene and gay bashing is rarely heard of. However, same-sex relationships are a taboo subject and "carnal intercourse against the order of nature" is punished by up to 20 years jail and whipping (men only) under colonial era laws not usually enforced against consenting adult heterosexuals. Different states may also impose '''consecutive''' sharia law punishments of up to 3 years and six lashes against Muslims of all genders. ==Cope== ===Electricity=== Malaysian sockets are designed for the 3-pin rectangular-pronged British plug. Electricity is delivered at 240 V, 50 Hz. ===Newspapers=== Malaysia's main Malay newspapers are ''[http://www.bharian.com.my Berita Harian]'' and ''[http://www.utusan.com.my Utusan Malaysia]''. There are also numerous Chinese newspapers, the most popular ones being the ''[http://www.chinapress.com.my China Press]'' (中國報), ''[http://www.enanyang.my Nanyang Siang Pau]'' (南洋商報) and ''[http://www.sinchew.com.my Sin Chew Daily]'' (星洲日報), as well as several Tamil newspapers. Malaysia's English-language paper of record is the '''''[https://www.nst.com.my New Straits Times]''''', a splinter from the Singaporean Straits Times, which is available at most hotels and newsstands. '''''[https://www.thestar.com.my The Star]''''' and '''''[https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/ Free Malaysia Today]''''', an English-Malay bilingual online newspaper, are also available. ==Connect== === Internet === Broadband Internet is available for free in most accommodations and some restaurants, especially fast-food outlets and shopping malls, including Starbucks and Coffeebean, some McDonald's and Subway. However, not every restaurant has WiFi, especially smaller ones. Southasian restaurants have WiFi more often. Cybercafés are a thing of the past, since nowadays most people have mobile data. === Mobile and data === Malaysia was one of the first countries in the world to offer 4G connectivity. There are a lot of providers, which usually offer good coverage. The easiest SIM to get is U-mobile, from RM10, with ok-ish coverage and a 30-day package of "unlimited" or 40GB internet for RM35 or RM25 per month respectively (2025). SIMs are available in every 7-11 and in some other places. There are also other SIM cards (RM10) available in some cheaper malls and Pakistani places which have 50GB packages for RM18. If you travel to Singapore or other neighboring countries, you can buy a 14-day "unlimited" package for RM35 (Feb 2024), which works in all of them including Malaysia. Other providers have better coverage but don't offer worthwhile roaming options. === Telephone numbers === The country code for Malaysia is +60. [[File:Sandakan Sabah Public-Phone-Booths-01.jpg|thumb|Phone booths in Sabah]] [[Telephone service|To call]] a Malaysian number from abroad * '''from overseas except Singapore''' dial the international access code, the country code for Malaysia, the area or mobile operator code without the "0", and then the phone number (for 123-4567 in Kuala Lumpur, in Wikivoyage written as +60 3 123-4567, dial {{nowrap|+60 3 123 45467);}} * '''from Singapore''', dial 02, the area or mobile operator code with the "0", and then the phone number {{nowrap|(02 03 123 45467).}} To domestically call a Malaysian number, * from a mobile phone or a landline phone '''outside the local area''', dial the area or mobile operator code, including the leading "0", followed by the phone number (03 123 4567), * from '''within the local area''' just dial the phone number without any code; '''from mobile phones''', you can always include the area or operator code, although it is unnecessary between phones with the same operator (where you are is immaterial with mobile phones). '''To call a foreign number''' not in Singapore from Malaysia, use the international dialling prefix '''00''' (on mobile phones: "+"). For Singapore, instead use the pseudo area code 02 and leave out the international prefix and country code. On the Maxis network, take advantage of 50% IDD rates on international calls via IDD132. This doesn't require any registration: just dial "132" prior to the "00" (don't use "+"). Malaysia also has four '''mobile telephone''' service providers, [http://www.maxis.com.my Maxis], [http://www.digi.com.my DiGi], [http://www.celcom.com.my Celcom], and [http://www.u.com.my U Mobile] which utilise codes '''012''', '''013''', '''014''', '''016''', '''017''', '''018''', '''019''', used like area codes. Network connection in Malaysia is excellent. Mobile number portability has been implemented, meaning a code like 012 that traditionally belonged to Maxis, can now be a DiGi subscriber. Mobile networks utilize the GSM 900 and 1800 systems. 3G (WCDMA), EDGE and HSPDA networks are available in larger towns. International roaming onto these networks is possible if your operator allows it. '''Prepaid SIM cards''' for sale at airports are pretty affordable; a one-week SIM card with a good amount of data might cost about RM20-30 (2019). See also [[#SIM cards|SIM cards]] above. Malaysian '''landline telephone numbers''' have either seven or eight digits. The country is divided into areas which have been assigned two- or three-digit area codes, which have to be dialled when calling from outside the area (or from a mobile phone). The area codes are: * '''03''' — Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor (all are Klang Valley), Pahang (Genting Highlands only) * '''04''' — Kedah, Penang, Perlis * '''05''' — Perak, Pahang (Cameron Highlands only) * '''06''' — Malacca, Johor (Muar district only), Negeri Sembilan * '''07''' — Johor (all districts except for Muar) * '''082''' — Sarawak (Kuching and Samarahan districts) * '''083''' — Sarawak (Sri Aman and Betong districts) * '''084''' — Sarawak (Sarikei, Sibu and west Kapit districts) * '''085''' — Sarawak (Miri and Limbang districts) * '''086''' — Sarawak (Bintulu districts and Belaga) * '''087''' — Sabah (Interior Division), Labuan * '''088''' — Sabah (West Coast and Kudat Division) * '''089''' — Sabah (Sandakan and Tawau Division) * '''09''' — Kelantan, Pahang (all districts except Genting Highlands), Terengganu === Postal services === [[File:Pos Malaysia Arau Post Office.jpg|thumb|Post office in [[Arau]], [[Perlis]]]] Postage stamps for postcards internationally is just 0,9 RM (as of February 2024) Many international courier services, such as Fedex, DHL and UPS, are available in towns and cities, but the main postal service provider is [http://www.pos.com.my Pos Malaysia] which reliably provides postal services to most countries in the world. Postage rates in Malaysia are cheap. Much cheaper than Thailand, Singapore or Vietnam, and surface post is available as well. The mail is reliable and trustworthy. When posting a parcel, do not seal the box. This is to allow for inspection in case illegal items are posted this way (ask for help at the post office if needed). A local alternative to the international courier companies mentioned above is the Pos Laju, which provides just as reliable a service at a fraction of the cost! Non-urgent letters and postcards can be dropped in postboxes inside post offices or red postboxes found outside post offices and along main roads. If there are two slots in a postbox use the one that says "lain lain" for international post. Post offices are open M–Sa 8AM–5PM except public holidays, although a few in Klang Valley stay open until 10PM. In the states of Kedah, Kelantan, Johor and Terengganu they are closed on Fridays and public holidays. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|3|108|zoom=6}} 127zc28figabfjvx8e30ffvv2yys5k9 5091281 5091280 2025-07-11T09:57:26Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091281 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner | Cameron_Highlands_Tea_Plantation_banner.jpg}} '''Malaysia''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]], on the Malay Peninsula, as well as on northern [[Borneo]]. The country is one of Asia's tiger economies, having seen great economic and human development during the last several decades. While the capital Kuala Lumpur is a cosmopolitan city, deep jungles cover vast swaths of the land, and the offshore islands are home to pristine beaches and some of the world's best scuba diving sites. Malaysia is also a foodie's paradise, with its diverse ethnic groups contributing to an incredibly rich culinary heritage. == Regions == Malaysia is divided into two main geographical regions, commonly known as Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. See [[Malaysia#Geography|Geography]] for more information. === Peninsular Malaysia === {{Mapframe|3.95|108.85|width=500|height=200|zoom=5|staticmap=Malaysia regions map.png|name=Map of Peninsular and East Malaysia}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q213467,Q188947,Q188096,Q188953,Q189710,Q1865,Q182378,Q213893,Q185221|fill=#69999f|title=[[West Coast (Malaysia)|West Coast]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q185944,Q189701,Q191346|fill=#71b37b|title=[[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q183032|fill=#d09440|title=[[Johor|South]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q179029,Q214504|fill=#867ea9|title=[[Sabah]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q170462|fill=#4f93c0|title=[[Sarawak]]}} {{Regionlist | region1name=[[West Coast (Malaysia)|West Coast]] | region1color=#69999f | region1items=[[Perlis]], [[Kedah]], [[Penang]], [[Perak]], [[Selangor]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Putrajaya]], [[Negeri Sembilan]], [[Malacca (state)|Malacca]] | region1description=The more developed region, offering the modern capital, [[Kuala Lumpur]], UNESCO World Heritage cities with colonial flair and the [[Langkawi]] archipelago. Perlis, Kedah and Perak are the gateways to [[Thailand]] overland. | region2name=[[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] | region2color=#71b37b | region2items=[[Kelantan]], [[Pahang]], [[Terengganu]] | region2description=The more traditional Muslim region, home to ''[[Taman Negara]]'' (National Park), numerous unspoilt islands and the [[Jungle Railway]], which winds through the rural hinterlands. Kelantan is the gateway to [[Thailand]] overland. | region3name=[[Johor]] | region3color=#d09440 | region3items= | region3description=Comprising just one state, two coastlines, endless palm oil plantations and the gateway to [[Singapore]] via a causeway or bridge. }} ===East Malaysia=== {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Sabah]] and [[Labuan]] | region1color=#867ea9 | region1items= | region1description=Superb scuba diving in [[Sipadan]] island plus muck diving at [[Mabul]], nature reserves, the federal enclave of [[Labuan]] and the mighty [[Mount Kinabalu]]. | region2name=[[Sarawak]] | region2color=#4f93c0 | region2items= | region2description=The southern state of East Malaysia (Borneo). Home to traditional longhouses, lush jungles and national parks in contrast to the state capital, [[Kuching]]. It is the gateway to [[Brunei]] and [[Indonesia]] overland. }} == Cities == [[File:PetronasKLCC.jpg|thumb|The iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur]] <!-- Only cities of primary importance to tourists here, maximum 9 --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuala Lumpur]]|wikidata=Q1865}} — the multi-cultural national capital, home of the Petronas Twin Towers * {{marker|type=city|name=[[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]]|wikidata=Q61092}} — the capital of [[Penang]] and hub of Malaysia's second largest metropolitan area, famed for its colonial-era architecture, multi-cultural populace, food and arts scene * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Malacca]]|wikidata=Q61089}} — the historical city of Malaysia with colonial-style architecture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ipoh]]|wikidata=Q271619}} — the capital of [[Perak]], with a historic colonial old town and tin mining area * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Johor Bahru]]|wikidata=Q231318}} — capital of [[Johor]] and Malaysia's third largest city, at the border with Singapore * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuantan]]|wikidata=Q817578}} — capital of [[Pahang]] and largest city on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kota Kinabalu]]|wikidata=Q137271}} — close to tropical islands, lush rain forest and Mount Kinabalu * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuching]]|wikidata=Q220445}} — capital of [[Sarawak]], and largest city in East Malaysia * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Miri]]|wikidata=Q986803}} — resort city of Sarawak near the border with Brunei and gateway to [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]], [[Gunung Mulu National Park]] <!-- Only cities of primary importance to tourists here, maximum 9 --> ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cameron Highlands]]|wikidata=Q1028741}} — famous for its tea plantations * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Perhentian Islands]]|wikidata=Q2070782}} (''Pulau Perhentian'') — glittering jewels off the East Coast still undiscovered by mass tourism * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Taman Negara]]|wikidata=Q728141}} — a large area of rainforest national park spanning [[Kelantan]], [[Pahang]] and [[Terengganu]] * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kinabalu National Park]]|wikidata=Q60967}} — home of Mount Kinabalu * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Langkawi]]|wikidata=Q273303}} — an archipelago of 99 islands known for its beaches, rainforest, mountains, mangrove estuaries and unique nature. It's also a duty-free island * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sipadan]]|wikidata=Q1412482}} (''Pulau Sipadan'') — one of the best dive spots in the world * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Redang]]|wikidata=Q1897123}} (''Pulau Redang'') — popular island destination for scuba divers * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Tioman]]|wikidata=Q771765}} (''Pulau Tioman'') — once nominated one of the most beautiful islands in the world * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Fraser's Hill]]|wikidata=Q3086678}} — a time warp to the colonial era == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMalaysia.png}} Malaysia is a mix of the modern world and a developing nation. With its investment in high technology industries and moderate oil wealth, it has become a rich nation in Southeast Asia. Malaysia, for most visitors, presents a happy mix: there is high-tech infrastructure and things generally work well and more or less on schedule, but prices remain more reasonable than, say, [[Singapore]]. The demographics between the rich and poor can also be quite apparent: for example, a high rise luxury condominium building built right across the street from old, rundown shop lots or flats. However, you will not find extreme rural poverty or gigantic urban slums as in most other countries of Southeast Asia. In terms of attractions, peninsular (West) Malaysia contains islands with gorgeous beaches and a fraction of visitors found in [[Thailand]]'s most popular beaches, mountain retreats surrounded by tea plantations, interesting historical cities, world-famous food, and the highly modern, multi-cultural capital of [[Kuala Lumpur]]. East Malaysia contains lush jungles with diverse native population and wildlife, as well as stunning natural attractions such as giant caves, beautiful mountains and fantastic diving sites. Notably, however, Malaysia is not as popular among backpackers as other Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand, [[Cambodia]] and [[Vietnam]], partly due to the relatively higher costs, and partly due to the more religious and conservative, albeit generally tolerant, culture. It also lacks the ancient Hindu and/or Buddhist temples and temple complexes of its neighbours, though it does have some large ones built since the 19th century. === History === [[File:Melaka-Dutch-Square-2164.jpg|thumb|The Dutch Square in Malacca]] Before the rise of the European colonial powers, the Malay Peninsula and the [[Malay Archipelago|Malay archipelago]] were home to empires such as the Srivijaya (whose capital was near modern [[Palembang]], [[Sumatra]], but which included the entire Malay Peninsula and lands further north at its greatest extent), the Majapahit (centred in [[Java]], now part of Indonesia, but believed by most scholars to have included the entire Malay Peninsula and most of coastal Borneo among its vassal states) and the [[Malacca]] Sultanate. The Srivijaya and Majapahit empires saw the spread of Hinduism to the region, and to this day, despite the fact that Malays are Muslims, many Hindu legends and traditions survive in traditional Malay culture. Mass conversion to Islam only occurred after the arrival of Arab traders during the Malacca Sultanate. [[File:Fort Cornwallis Eck.JPG|thumb|Fort Cornwallis in [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], [[Penang]] marked the site where the British colonisation of Malaya began in 1786.]] During the 16th century the Portuguese established the first European colony in Southeast Asia by defeating the Malacca Sultanate. The Portuguese were religiously intolerant and cruel, so the Sultan of Johor assisted the Dutch in defeating them, and the Netherlands took control of the city. The British also established their first colony on the Malay peninsula in [[Penang]] when it was ceded by the Sultan of Kedah in 1786. Finally, the area was divided into Dutch and British spheres of influence with the signing of the Anglo-Dutch Treaty in 1824. With this treaty, the Dutch agreed to cede Malacca to the British and in return, the British ceded all their colonies on Sumatra to the Dutch. The line of division roughly corresponds to what is today the border between Malaysia and [[Indonesia]]. Before World War II, the Malay Peninsula was governed by the British as the Federated Malay States (Selangor, Perak, Negeri Sembilan and Pahang), which were governed as a single protectorate, the Unfederated Malay States (Johor, Kedah, Perlis, Terengganu and Kelantan), which were each governed as separate protectorates. The Straits Settlements (Malacca, Penang and Singapore) were crown colonies directly administered by the British colonisers. These colonies and protectorates were collectively referred to as "[[Malaya]]". British Borneo consisted of the British colony of North Borneo, the Kingdom of Sarawak, which was ruled by a British family known as the "White Rajas", and the British protectorate of Brunei. [[Pacific War|World War II]] was disastrous for the British Malayan Command. The Japanese swept down both coasts of the Malay Peninsula and despite fierce fighting, much of the British military was tied down fighting the Germans in Europe and those that remained in Malaya simply could not cope with the Japanese onslaught. The British military equipment left to defend Malaya was outdated and no match for the modern technology used by the Japanese, and the only two British battleships based in the region, the HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse, were sunk by Japanese bombers off the East Coast of Malaya. By 31 January 1942, the British had been pushed all the way back to Singapore, which fell to the Japanese on 15 February 1942. The situation was no different on Borneo, which fell to the Japanese on 1 April 1942 after months of fierce fighting. The Japanese occupation was brutal, and many, particularly the ethnic Chinese, suffered and perished during the occupation. Among the most notorious atrocities committed by the Japanese were the Sandakan Death Marches, with only 6 out of 2,345 prisoners surviving the war. After World War II, the Federated Malay States, Unfederated Malay States and the Straits Settlements of Malacca and Penang were federated to form a single British colony known as the Malayan Union, with Singapore being split off to form a separate colony. In the Malayan Union, the sultans of the various states ceded all their powers except those in religious affairs to the British crown. However, widespread opposition to the Malayan Union led the British to reconsider their position, and in 1948, the Malayan Union was replaced by the Federation of Malaya, in which the executive positions of the sultans were restored. In Borneo, the White Rajas ceded Sarawak to the British crown in 1946, making it a crown colony of the United Kingdom. [[File:Dataran Merdeka (18359791323).jpg|thumb|Malaysian flag flying in ''Dataran Merdeka'', Kuala Lumpur]] On 31 August 1957, Malaya gained independence from the British. At midnight, the Union Jack was lowered, and the Malayan flag raised in its place at what is today ''Dataran Merdeka'' (Independence Square) in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. The crowd, led by the first Prime Minister of Malaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman, then proceeded to chant "''Merdeka''" seven times. On 16 September 1963, Malaysia was formed through the merging of Malaya with the British colonies of North Borneo (now known as Sabah), Sarawak and Singapore, with Brunei deciding not to join. The first several years of the country's history were marred by the Confrontation (''Konfrontasi'') — actually a series of acts of aggression by Indonesia that ultimately ended in her defeat and a formal peace that has held ever since — and claims to Sabah from the Philippines. On 9 August 1965 Singapore was officially expelled from the federation after several bloody racial riots as Singapore's majority Chinese population and the People's Action Party, led by Lee Kuan Yew (later the long-ruling Prime Minister of Singapore), were seen as a threat to Malay dominance. There were further racial riots in 1969, which led to the forced resignation of Tunku Abdul Rahman; his replacement by Tun Abdul Razak; changes in the Malaysian Constitution that sought to prevent the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition led by the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) from ever being defeated in a future national election; and the start of the New Economic Policy, which sought to aggressively promote the economic interests of the generally poorer Malay community (and also the non-Malay indigenous peoples of East Malaysia) over those of the generally less poor Chinese community (with the poorest major ethnic group, the Indians, and also to a very large extent the Orang Asli [aboriginal people] in the Peninsula mostly ignored in the process). In 1975, boat people from across the South China Sea in [[Vietnam]] started coming, and Malaysia became one of the most important places of first refuge for Indochinese refugees, but in general, only those of the Muslim Champa minority were invited to stay permanently. Later, during the period of tremendous economic development under the long premiership of Mahathir Mohammed, a large number of immigrant workers were invited from [[Bangladesh]], [[Indonesia]], [[India]], and several other countries in the area, and even more immigrated illegally. This further increased the diversity of the population, and quite a number of the workers were reported in local newspapers to have intermarried with local women, but it also led to social strife as many Malaysian men resented the competition, and while the economy depended on immigrant workers to do jobs most Malaysians were no longer willing to do, now that their standard of living was higher, most Malaysians also did not want to permanently absorb a large and potentially almost limitless number of poor people from the much more populous countries in the region. Some immigrants were expelled and even caned for immigration violations, but the issue has never been really resolved. Things came to a head in 2015 when allegations of corruption by then-prime minister Najib Razak surfaced in connection with 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), which was originally set up to promote economic development by attracting foreign investment. The allegations led to the ''Bersih'' (Malay for "clean") rally in which protesters unsuccessfully called for Najib to step down. However, widespread discontent arising from the 1MDB corruption scandal continued to simmer, eventually leading to a shock first-ever electoral defeat for the incumbent BN coalition in the 2018 general election. === Politics === Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy consisting of 13 states and 3 federal territories, nominally headed by the king (''Yang di-Pertuan Agong'', lit. Paramount Ruler), whose position rotates among the rulers of the 9 royal states of Malaysia every five years, giving Malaysia a unique political system of rotational monarchy. In practice, the king is only the nominal head of state, while the prime minister is the one who wields the most authority in government. Malaysia's government is largely based on the British Westminster system, consisting of a bicameral national parliament. The lower house, known as the ''Dewan Rakyat'' (Hall of the People) is elected directly by the people. The upper house, known as the ''Dewan Negara'' (National Hall), consists of 26 members elected by the state governments, with each state having 2 representatives, while the remaining members are appointed by the king. The head of government is the prime minister, who is the party leader of the winning party in the lower house. At the state level, each of the states also has its own unicameral ''Dewan Undangan Negeri'' (State Legislative Assembly), with the head of the state government being the ''Menteri Besar'' (First Minister, often translated as "Chief Minister" in English-language media) in the royal states, and the ''Ketua Menteri'' (Chief Minister) in the non-royal states. === Geography === Malaysia comprises two geographic regions, Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, which are separated by the South China Sea. '''Peninsular Malaysia''' (''Semenanjung Malaysia'') occupies all of the Malay Peninsula between [[Thailand]] and [[Singapore]], and is also known as West Malaysia (''Malaysia Barat'') or the slightly archaic [[Malaya]] (''Tanah Melayu''). It's home to the bulk of Malaysia's population, the capital and the largest city [[Kuala Lumpur]], and generally more economically developed. Peninsular Malaysia consists of plains on both the East and West Coasts, separated from each other by a mountain range known as the ''Banjaran Titiwangsa'', with the West Coast being more densely populated and generally more well-developed than the East Coast. Separated some 800&nbsp;km to the east of Peninsular Malaysia is '''East Malaysia''' (''Malaysia Timur''). East Malaysia occupies the northern third of the island of [[Borneo]], shared with [[Indonesia]] and tiny [[Brunei]]. Much of the development on East Malaysia is centred around the cities of [[Kuching]], [[Miri]] and [[Kota Kinabalu]]. Outside of the major cities and smaller towns are impenetrable jungle where head hunters once roamed and coastal plains rising to mountains. East Malaysia is rich in natural resources and is very much Malaysia's hinterland for industry and tourism, though those who make the trip will find it to be a world-class ecotourism destination. ===People=== Malaysia is a multicultural society. While Malays (a branch of the [[Austronesian]] group) make up a 52% majority, 27% of Malaysians are Chinese (who are especially visible in the cities), 9% are Indians, 12% are members of aboriginal peoples (often called ''Orang Asli'', Malay for "Original People"), and there is a miscellaneous grouping of 1.5% "others", including Thai communities in northern border states and the Portuguese clan in Malacca. The majority of the population (including virtually all Malays, as well as a significant minority of Indians) adheres to [[Islam]], the state religion, and there are substantial minorities who practice [[Christianity]], [[Buddhism]], Taoism, [[Hinduism]], [[Sikhism]] and animism, which are allowed under the constitution, subject to the supremacy of Islam — for example, it is illegal to proselytize other religions to Muslims. ===Culture=== Malaysia shares many cultural similarities with its neighbours, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore due to their common history. As the first great kingdoms to emerge in the region were Hindu kingdoms with much influence from India, Malay culture has substantial Indian influences. This is most visible in Malay cuisine with its relatively heavy use of curries, albeit using local instead of Indian spices, meaning that Malay curries often have a unique local flavour that is different from their Indian counterparts. In addition, the Malay language contains quite a few loan words from Sanskrit, and traditional Malay arts show noticeable influences from Hindu mythology, albeit Islamised. Malaysia's minorities also continue to maintain their own distinct cultures, with the Chinese and Indian communities continuing to preserve the traditions brought from their ancestral homelands. In particular, Malaysia's ethnic Chinese community is considered to have preserved Chinese culture and language the best among all the overseas Chinese communities of the world. Moreover, as Malaysia was unaffected by the Cultural Revolution, the ethnic Chinese community of Malaysia has preserved many elements of traditional Chinese culture that have been lost in mainland China. ===Holidays=== {{ramadandates}} One of the significant characteristics of Malaysian culture is its celebration of various festivals and events. The year is filled with colourful, exhilarating and exciting activities. Some are religious and solemn but others are vibrant, joyous events. One interesting feature of the main festivals here is the 'open house' custom. This is when Malaysians celebrating the festival invite friends and family to come by their homes for some traditional delicacies and fellowship. Multicultural Malaysia celebrates a vast range of festivals, but the ones to look out for nationwide are Islamic holidays, most notably the fasting month of '''Ramadan'''. During its 29 or 30 days, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sex from dawn to sunset. Not all Muslims follow the tradition, or sustain the full period of Ramadan fasting, but most do make a very serious effort. Pregnant, breast feeding or menstruating women are not expected to fast, nor are the elderly, the infirm, or travellers. People get up early before sunrise for a meal (''sahur''), and take off early to get back home in time to break fast (''buka puasa'') at sunset. At the end of the month is the festival of '''Eid ul-Fitr''', known locally as '''Hari Raya Puasa''' or '''Aidilfitri''', when many locals take one to two weeks off to 'balik kampung' or return to their home towns to meet family and friends. Accordingly, this is one of the many times in a year when major cities like Kuala Lumpur have virtually no traffic congestion. Another important festival is the Muslim festival of '''Eid ul-Adha''', known locally as '''Hari Raya Haji''' or '''Aidiladha'''. It is during this festival that Muslims perform the Hajj or pilgrimage to Mecca. In local mosques, cows and goats are donated by the faithful and sacrificed, after which the meat is distributed to all. Family reunions are also celebrated during other main festivals when locals usually put on traditional costumes and finery as these festivals are an integral feature of Malaysian society. During the month of Ramadan, non-Muslims are expected to be considerate of those fasting. Non-Muslims, as well as Muslims travelling (''musafir''), are exempt from fasting but it is polite to refrain from eating or drinking in public. Public school systems also require non-Muslims to refrain from eating in front of those who are fasting. Many restaurants close during the day and those that stay open maintain a low profile. Business travellers will notice that things move rather more slowly than usual. The upside for foreign travellers are the Ramadan bazaars in every city and town, bustling with activity and bursting at the seams with great food. That said, most Chinese stalls and restaurants remain open, and you will see people eating and drinking openly in Chinese-majority areas. Hotels and restaurants also pull out all stops to put on massive spreads of food for fast-breaking feasts. During the month of Ramadan, meals at the end of fasts are usually considered grand feasts. Worldwide fast-food chain McDonald's is known for holding several all-you-can-eat Ramadan feasts during the month. {{CNYdates}} Other major holidays include '''Chinese New Year''' (around January/February), '''Deepavali''' or '''Diwali''', the Hindu festival of lights (around October/November), the Buddhist holiday of '''Wesak''' (around May/June), and '''Christmas''' (25 December). During Chinese New Year, George Town and Ipoh become the major cities as many local Chinese working and living in KL originated from there. However this situation is changing gradually, as more and more people are making Kuala Lumpur their home town. While visiting during such festivals, travellers will be able to experience many wonderful celebrations, but the downside is many ethnic shops/eateries will be closed. The best option is to visit during the period just after the first two days of the major festival (Hari Raya/Chinese New Year), when shops will open, and the festive mood has still not died down. Another major celebration is '''Deepavali''', celebrated by the Malaysian Hindus as the festival of light originating from classical India and one of the main cultural celebrations. In Malaysia, locals practice this tradition by wearing new clothes and receiving token gifts of money. This practice has been adapted by all Malaysians regardless of their religion. They distribute red packets or ''ang pow'' during Chinese New Year, green packets or 'duit raya' for Hari Raya Aidilfitri and multi-coloured packets during Deepavali. Some uniquely Malaysian festivals of note include the '''Harvest Festival''' at the end of May each year and the ''''Pesta Gawai'''' in early June, both thanksgiving celebrations held in [[East Malaysia]]. '''Thaipusam''' is a Hindu festival that falls in January or February and is one of the must-see events. The largest procession in the country takes place at Batu Caves, Selangor. Male devotees carry decorated altars or ''kavadi'' up a flight of 272 steps towards the temple, all this while also having religious spears and hooks pierced through external surfaces of their bodies. The ability is attributed to divine intervention and religious fervour. Female devotees join the procession carrying pots of milk on their head instead. === Climate === The '''climate''' in Malaysia is equatorial. The north-east monsoon (October to February) deluges Borneo and the East Coast of the Peninsula in rain and often causes flooding, while the West Coast (particularly Langkawi and Penang) escapes unscathed. The milder south-west monsoon (April to October) reverses the pattern. The southern and central parts of Peninsular Malaysia, including perennially soggy Kuala Lumpur, are exposed to both but even during the rainy season, the showers tend to be intense but brief. Malaysia is close to the equator, so warm weather is guaranteed. Temperatures generally range from 32°C (90°F) at noon to about 26°C (79°F) at midnight. But like most Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia's sun-shining days are interrupted by monsoon season every year, and night temperatures can hit a low of about 23°C (73°F) on rainy days. Temperatures tend to be cooler in the highlands, with the likes of [[Genting Highlands]], [[Cameron Highlands]] and [[Fraser's Hill]] having temperatures ranging from about 17°C (63°F) at night to about 25°C (77°F) in the day. Mount Kinabalu is known to have temperatures falling below 10°C (50°F). ===Tourist information === * [https://www.tourism.gov.my/ Malaysia Tourism Corporation] == Talk == {{seealso|Malay phrasebook}} The national-level official language of Malaysia is '''[[Malay phrasebook|Malay]]''' (officially ''Bahasa Malaysia'', sometimes also known as ''Bahasa Melayu'') and '''English''' is also the co-official language of the state of [[Sarawak]]. The [[Indonesian phrasebook|Indonesian]] language, spoken across the border in Indonesia, is similar to Malay, and speakers of both languages can generally understand each other. The main differences are in the loanwords: Malay borrowed more from English, while Indonesian borrowed more from Dutch. Some parts of Malaysia near the Thai border, most notably [[Kelantan]], have dialects of Malay which are nearly incomprehensible to speakers of standard Malay, though most people in these areas will be able to converse in standard Malay if needed. '''English''' is compulsory in all schools and widely spoken in the larger cities, among the well-educated upper class, as well as around the main tourist attractions, although in rural areas a little Malay will come in handy. There is also a local dialect of English spoken among Malaysians in urban areas, not inappropriately known as '''Manglish''', which has its own simplified grammar and a vocabulary that is mostly English but includes borrowings from Malay and several other locally-spoken languages; it takes a bit of getting used to if you intend to join in the conversation on local topics. Almost all Malaysians will not pronounce the letter "h", so "three" becomes "tree". Malaysians will almost always try to speak 'standardized English' (British) when approached by Western travellers. In general, police stations and government offices have English-speaking staff on duty. [[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]] is taught to those who attend Islamic religious schools, and many clerics as well as other very observant Muslims have a functional command of Arabic. However, it is not widely spoken, though the Malay language does have a large number of loan words from Arabic. You also might notice some examples of Malay written with Arabic letters. This is called Jawi, and it is still used for religious publications and inscriptions, especially in more conservative states like [[Kelantan]], although the Latin alphabet is much more commonly used throughout the country. The Chinese community in Malaysia speaks a wide variety of Chinese dialects including [[Cantonese phrasebook|Cantonese]], [[Teochew phrasebook|Teochew]], [[Hakka phrasebook|Hakka]], [[Hainanese phrasebook|Hainanese]], [[Fuzhou dialect phrasebook|Hokchiu]] and [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]]. [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] is taught in Chinese schools while Cantonese is commonly heard in the mass media due to the popularity of TVB serials from Hong Kong among the Chinese community, so many are conversant in both, regardless of their native dialect. Malaysian cities with large ethnic Chinese populations will often have a dialect serving as a lingua franca among that community: in Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh, this is Cantonese; in Penang and Klang, Hokkien; and in Kota Kinabalu, Hakka. The most commonly spoken Indian language is [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]]; others include [[Malayalam phrasebook|Malayalam]], [[Punjabi phrasebook|Punjabi]] and [[Telugu phrasebook|Telugu]]. In the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia bordering Thailand, there are various ethnic Thai communities, known locally as the ''Orang Siam'', who speak various dialects of [[Thai phrasebook|Thai]]. [[Malacca]] in the south is also home to a Portuguese community which speaks a [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]] based creole. The remote forest areas of Peninsular Malaysia are also home to various tribal people known as the ''Orang Asli'', who speak various indigenous languages such as Semelai, Temuan and many others. In East Malaysia several indigenous languages are also spoken, especially [[Iban phrasebook|Iban]] and Kadazan. Films and television programmes are usually shown in their original language with Malay subtitles, although some children's programmes are dubbed into Malay. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== {{VisaRestriction |Entry '''will be refused''' to citizens of [[Israel]] with an Israeli passport unless holding a letter of approval from the Malaysian Ministry of Home Affairs. Additionally citizens of Israel require an onward ticket and will be asked to purchase one or be '''refused entry'''. Malaysia is no longer concerned about other nationals' passports that show entry stamps and/or visas from Israel. |lastedit=2013-03-07 }} ====Visa==== [[Image:World map of the visa policy of Malaysia.png|thumb|375px]] Most nationalities can enter Malaysia without a visa and can reside in Malaysia for 14 to 90 days, depending on their nationality. Refer to the '''[https://www.kln.gov.my/ Ministry of Foreign Affairs]''' for current information regarding visa requirements and stay periods. The East Malaysian states of [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]] each maintains its own immigration system and separate controls: even Malaysians from other states require a passport or MyKad on arrival. Those who wish to enter Malaysia for purposes other than for a Social or Business visit still require a visa for any period except for US citizens who enter for the purpose of studying. Nationals of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Montenegro, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Serbia, and Sri Lanka need a visa but can apply for an '''e-visa''', which is valid for 3 months for a stay of up to 30 days. You'll have to print out the visa once it's issued and bring proof of sufficient funds, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation when you enter the country. Citizens of India are exempted needing to have a visa for a stay of up to 30 days until December 31, 2026. '''Overstaying''' a visa will result in a US$10, €7.50 or RM30 fine per day. However it's fairly simple to avoid overstaying a visa by doing a "visa run" to a neighbouring country overland or via a cheap flight. Malaysia may impose '''caning''' as a punishment for overstaying a visa. ====Malaysia Digital Arrival Card==== Since 2024, all foreign travellers must complete the '''[https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)]''' online for every visit to Malaysia. You can only complete this card a maximum of 3 days ahead of your arrival — in practice you can even submit it on the day of arrival while in the queue to immigration. At KLIA there are also PCs available before immigration where you can complete the card. ====Autogates==== Travellers from most visa-free countries may use the '''autogates''' to complete immigration formalities when entering and exiting Malaysia via multiple ports of entry such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and the Causeway in Johor Bahru. Your passport needs to be valid for a minimum of 6 months if entering via KLIA, or 3 months if entering by road from Singapore. Entry through any other immigration checkpoint will require you to be processed at a manned immigration counter. {{infobox|Fingerprinting at Immigration|Malaysian Immigration authorities '''fingerprint''' visitors on arrival and departure. These fingerprints may well find their way to other country's authorities or other non-state agencies.}} It is advisable to use autogates if you can, as the immigration queues can be quite brutal. If you are qualified for the autogates, you don't need to enroll. You can proceed directly to an autogate, even if it's your first visit. There is one exception: if you want to proceed to East Malaysia, you need to go to a human counter and have your passport stamped as it is required by Malaysian law. You will need to clear immigration by showing your passport with an entry stamp when you arrive at a port in East Malaysia. If you are not a Malaysian citizen and cannot use the autogates, '''ensure that your passport is stamped on entry''', or you would be considered to have entered illegally otherwise (and Malaysian immigration officials don't always give entry stamps unprompted). Fines on the order of RM3,000 will be imposed when you try to leave without the entry stamp in your passport. Also '''ensure that your passport is stamped when you leave''', or you would be considered to have left illegally otherwise, which could cause problems should you wish to visit Malaysia again in the future. ====Transit visas==== Even though citizens of Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka normally require a visa, they can transit the same airport for up to 120 hours provided they arrive and depart on the same airline, land at [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]], [[Kota Kinabalu]], [[Kuching]], [[Penang]] or [[Johor Bahru]] and present an air ticket for the onward flight. ====Customs==== Travellers are not permitted to bring more than the equivalent of US$10,000 in Malaysian ringgit per person in and out of the country. There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you can bring into or out of Malaysia, but you are required to declare to customs if the total amount of cash and traveller's cheques you are carrying exceeds the equivalent of US$10,000 per person. Non-Muslim travellers aged 21 and above are permitted to bring up to 1L of alcohol into Malaysia. There is ''no'' duty free allowance for tobacco products including cigarettes; all tobacco products must be declared and duties paid. ===By plane=== [[File:KLIA MTB&Tower.jpg|thumb|[[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]] in [[Sepang]], [[Selangor]].]] National carrier '''[https://www.malaysiaairlines.com Malaysia Airlines]''' (MAS) has extensive coverage within Asia, and intercontinental flights to Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. It regularly ranks high in airline quality assessments. Low-cost carrier '''AirAsia''' and its sister company, '''AirAsia X''', connects an ever-expanding set of countries including [[Australia]], [[China]], [[Cambodia]], [[Hong Kong]], [[India]], [[Indonesia]], [[Laos]], [[Macau]], [[New Zealand]], the [[Philippines]], [[Singapore]], [[Sri Lanka]], [[Thailand]], [[Myanmar]] and [[Vietnam]]. Emirates also flies from most cities to [[Kuala Lumpur]] via [[Dubai]], and flights to [[Perth]], [[Australia]], make a brief stop in [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport|KLIA]]. * {{listing | name=AirAsia | alt= | url=http://www.airasia.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 3 8775-4000, 1 300 88 9933 (in country only)| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Malaysia Airlines | alt= | url=http://www.malaysiaairlines.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 3 7846-3000, 1-300-88-3000 (in country only)| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Emirates Airlines | alt= | url=http://www.emirates.com/my/english/index.aspx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 36 207 4999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} Most international flights land at '''[[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]] [http://www.klia.com.my (KLIA)]''' ({{IATA|KUL}}). KLIA's predecessor, the '''Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport''' ({{IATA|SZB}}) in Subang near [[Kuala Lumpur]] handles mostly domestic turboprop fights, with limited regional services to [[Singapore]] and [[Jakarta]]. See the [[Kuala Lumpur#get in|Kuala Lumpur '''Get in''' section]] for detailed airport information. Other airports which have significant numbers of flights to regional destinations are [[Kota Kinabalu]] (Sabah), [[Penang]], [[Kuching]] (Sarawak), [[Langkawi]] and [[Johor Bahru]]. Some other smaller airports also serve limited international flights from [[Singapore]]. === By train === * '''From Singapore:''' There's a shuttle train service which runs seven times each way during the morning and evening peak periods from Woodlands Train Station (in the north of [[Singapore]]) to JB sentral in [[Johor Bahru]], costing MYR5 from the Malaysian side and SGD5 on the Singapore side. Conventional intercity trains then connect [[Johor Bahru]] with [[Gemas]] (where you can transfer to a train to [[Kuala Lumpur]]) and Tumpat, near [[Kota Bharu]]. They don't always match up to the shuttle times, so be prepared for long waiting times or get a backup plan by bus should you miss the shuttle. Early morning trains to Singapore and late evening trains to Malaysia are usually packed on the weekdays and the traffic flow reverses on the weekends. Booking online at the [http://www.ktmb.com.my KTMB website] may reserve a precious seat without hassle. When travelling from Singapore into Malaysia, both Singaporean and Malaysian immigration checks are conducted at Woodlands Train Station before boarding the train for Malaysia. In the reverse direction, Malaysian immigration checks are conducted at JB Sentral before boarding, while Singaporean immigration checks are conducted on arrival in Woodlands. * '''From Thailand:''' Trains from Thailand start and terminate at the border at [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] where Thai and Malaysian immigration formalities are all conveniently done in the station, and you can transfer between Malaysian and Thai trains. There are two Padang Besar stations; one in Thailand and one in Malaysia; be sure to get off the train only at the Padang Besar station in Malaysia, as that is where both Thai and Malaysian immigration checks are conducted, and where transfers between Malaysian and Thai trains take place. There is also a less used eastern route from [[Hat Yai]] to Thai border town [[Sungai Kolok]], but there are no through trains to the nearby Malaysian station at Wakaf Bahru (near [[Kota Bharu]]). === By bus === Long-distance buses/coaches into Malaysia run from Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. Please see the relevant city pages for more details. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — There are buses to [[Miri]] and [[Kota Kinabalu]], leaving from the waterfront in downtown [[Bandar Seri Begawan]]. There are also buses to [[Limbang]]. * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — Direct buses operate between [[Pontianak]] or [[Singkawang]] in [[West Kalimantan]] and [[Kuching]] in [[Sarawak]]. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — A multitude of bus companies operate direct routes from Singapore to various destinations in [[Peninsular Malaysia]], including [[Malacca]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Penang]], [[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] cities and even [[Petaling Jaya]] and [[Subang Jaya]]. Frequent public buses make the short run between Singapore and [[Johor Bahru]], and you can save a few bucks by changing at JB's Larkin terminal to a cheap domestic bus instead of taking a more expensive direct bus. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — Several companies operate services from [[Kuala Lumpur]] and other cities in Malaysia to [[Hat Yai]] in [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]], where direct connections are available to [[Bangkok]] and many other Thai destinations. === By taxi=== Special cross-border taxis operate between Singapore and Johor Bahru. See [[Johor_Bahru#By_taxi]] for details. === By road=== [[File:Danok Sadao Border Crossing2.jpg|thumb|Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint in [[Kedah]], on the border with [[Thailand]]]] Land crossings are possible from [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]] and Singapore into [[Peninsular Malaysia]], as well as from Brunei and [[Kalimantan]] (the Indonesian side of Borneo) into [[Sarawak]]. There is no official crossing into [[Sabah]] from Indonesia even though they share a land border. An International Drivers Permit (IDP) is required. See the respective city or state pages for more detailed information. Starting from 1st October 2024, a vehicle entry permit (VEP) is required to drive a foreign-registered car into Malaysia from Singapore. You must apply for the permit [https://vep.jpj.gov.my/ online], affix the RFID tag that will be sent to your home address to your car, and activate the tag online before you can drive into Malaysia. Unless you already have a car in Singapore, it makes more sense to cross the border first and rent much more cheaply in Malaysia. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — The main crossings are at '''Sungai Tujoh''' on the [[Miri]], [[Sarawak]], to [[Bandar Seri Begawan]] (Brunei) road, and the '''Kuala Lurah-Tedungan''' checkpoint which is used for traffic travelling between Bandar Seri Begawan and [[Limbang]] in [[Sarawak]]. You can also access the [[Temburong]] district of Brunei by road from [[Limbang]] via the Pandaruan (Puni on the Brunei side) checkpoint and [[Lawas]] via Trusan (Labu on the Brunei side). * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — The main crossing is at the '''Tebedu-Entikong''' checkpoint on the main [[Kuching]]-[[Pontianak]] road. The other two official crossings are the '''Biawak-Aruk''' crossing on the main Kuching-[[Singkawang]] road, and the more remote '''Lubok Antu-Nanga Badau''' crossing. All three crossings are between the Malaysian state of [[Sarawak]] and the Indonesian province of [[West Kalimantan]]. There are also several unofficial crossings that are used by locals, but as a foreigner, you should not use them as that is considered to be illegal entry. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — The two crossings are the '''Causeway''' which links [[Johor Bahru]] with '''Woodlands''' in Singapore, and the Malaysia-Singapore '''Second Link''' (''Linkedua'') which links [[Iskandar Puteri]] with Tuas in Singapore. See [[Johor Baru#Get in|Johor Bahru '''Get in''' section]] and [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore '''Get in''' section]] for more details. Generally speaking, the Second Link is less congested than the Causeway, and is more convenient for those who wish to drive up the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, but a lot less convenient for people who just want to visit Johor Bahru. Singapore-registered cars must have their fuel tank filled to at least ¾ full when leaving Singapore. '''Cycling into Malaysia''' is permitted only through the Causeway but not the Second Link; use the motorcycle lanes and have your entry processed at the manual motorcycle counters. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — International checkpoints (from west to east, with the Thai towns in brackets) are at '''[[Wang Kelian]]''' ([[Satun]]) and '''[[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]]''' ([[Padang Besar (Thailand)|Padang Besar]]) in [[Perlis]], '''[[Bukit Kayu Hitam]]''' ([[Sadao]]) and '''Kota Putra''' (Banprokob) in [[Kedah]], '''Pengkalan Hulu''' (Betong) in [[Perak]], and '''Bukit Bunga''' (Buketa) and '''[[Rantau Panjang]]''' ([[Sungai Kolok]]) in [[Kelantan]]. Thai immigration has long been known to demand a bribe of RM2/20 baht per person to stamp you in or out, though there has been a crackdown on this. Instead, there is now an official fee levied by Thai immigration if you are crossing the border at peak times (5AM-8:30AM, noon-1PM or 4:30PM-9PM on weekdays, and all day on weekends and both Malaysian and Thai public holidays); this is 25 baht for the driver and 5 baht for each passenger if crossing the border by car, and 10 baht for the rider and 3 baht for the pillion if crossing by motorcycle. No fee is payable if you are walking across the border. === By boat === [[File:Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal.jpg|thumb|Ferry terminal in [[Iskandar Puteri]], [[Johor]]]] Ferries connect various points in [[Peninsular Malaysia]] with [[Sumatra]] in Indonesia and [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]], [[Sarawak]] with Brunei, and [[Sabah]] with [[East Kalimantan]] in Indonesia and [[Mindanao]] in the Philippines. Luxury cruises also run from Singapore and sometimes [[Phuket]] (Thailand) to Malaysia. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — Ferries travel daily between the Muara Ferry Terminal in Brunei and [[Labuan]]. * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — The main jumping-off points from Indonesia are the [[Riau Islands]] of [[Batam]], [[Bintan]] and [[Karimun]]; [[Dumai]], [[Medan]] and [[Pekanbaru]] on the [[Sumatra]] mainland as well as [[Nunukan]] in [[East Kalimantan]]. Ferries link [[Batam]] with Batu Pahat, [[Iskandar Puteri]] and [[Johor Bahru]]; [[Bintan]] with [[Johor Bahru]]; [[Karimun]] with Batu Pahat and Kukup in [[Johor]]; Dumai with [[Malacca]], Muar in [[Johor]], Port Dickson (in [[Negeri Sembilan]]) and [[Port Klang]], the port for [[Selangor]]; Pekanbaru with [[Malacca]]. Daily ferries also link Nunukan and [[Tarakan]] with Tawau in [[Sabah]]. There are also minor crossings like between Bengkalis in [[Riau]] and Batu Pahat; [[Sumatra]] and [[Malacca]] and Muar in [[Johor]]; and Tanjung Balai Asahan in [[North Sumatra]] with [[Port Klang]], the port for [[Selangor]]. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — A daily ferry runs between Tanah Merah and [[Desaru]], and there is a weekend service between Tanah Merah and [[Pengerang]], both in [[Johor]]. See the [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore '''Get in''' section]] for details. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — Four ferries travel daily (reduced to three during Ramadan) between Tammalang at [[Satun]] and Kuah on [[Langkawi]], Malaysia. Both passenger bum boats and vehicular ferries operate between Ban Taba near [[Tak Bai]] in [[Narathiwat_(province)|Narathiwat province]] and Pengkalan Kubur in [[Kelantan]], Malaysia. === On foot === It is possible to enter Malaysia from [[Thailand]] on foot at [[Wang Kelian]] and [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] (both in [[Perlis]]), [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]] ([[Kedah]]), Pengkalan Hulu ([[Perak]]) and [[Rantau Panjang]] ([[Kelantan]]). From [[Singapore]], it is possible to cross into Malaysia on foot using the Causeway, but be prepared for a very long walk as Malaysian immigration is now located 2km inland from the border. Unlike the previous customs and immigration complex, the current one was not set up to handle pedestrian traffic, meaning that there are no pedestrian footpaths on the Malaysian side, and you have to walk on the road among vehicular traffic to get to customs and immigration. Crossing the Second Link on foot is not allowed; not that there would be any practical way to continue your journey on either side even if you did. In East Malaysia, there is a ferry from [[Kota Kinabalu]] to [[Labuan]]. == Get around == Immigration controls are in place for travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, as well as between the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. Malaysian citizens need to present their ID cards, while foreign citizens are required to present their passports in order to travel. === By plane === Flying is the only practical option for traveling between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, as well as reaching some of the more remote outposts of Borneo. Largely thanks to budget carrier '''[http://www.airasia.com AirAsia]''', Malaysia is crisscrossed by a web of affordable flights with advertised promotional prices starting at RM9 for flights booked well in advance. State carrier '''[http://www.malaysiaairlines.com Malaysia Airlines]''' also has competitive fares which now include equally or even lower-priced tickets if booked in advance through the internet, with a few more frills. Their offshoot '''[https://www.fireflyz.com.my/my/en/home.html Firefly]''' operates a handy network of turboprop flights radiating out of Penang and Kuala Lumpur's second airport Subang (Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah). In [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]], '''[http://www.maswings.com.my MASWings]''', operates turboprop services linking interior communities, including those in the [[Kelabit Highlands]], with coastal cities. === By bus === {{infobox|Report Bad Drivers|Bus drivers (especially on more "rural" routes) sometimes drive carelessly, speed like maniacs, overtake on blind corners, etc. The vast majority of journeys are problem-free. However, some horrific accidents attributed to reckless driving have led to a crackdown and a nationwide hotline, and an SMS number for reporting these drivers/vehicles has been set up. This number is conveniently pasted on the back of every single large vehicle in the country.}} [[File:Higer-RapidPenang.JPG|thumb|Public bus in Penang]] The cheapest way to travel in Malaysia is by bus. All towns of any size have a bus terminal offering connections to other parts of the country. There are many companies of varying degrees of dependability, but two of the largest and more reliable are '''[https://www.transnasional.com.my/ Transnasional]''' and '''[http://www.plusliner.com.my/ NICE/Plusliner]'''. 24-seater "luxury" buses are recommended for long-distance travel. Air conditioning on some buses can be extremely cold so don't forget to bring a good sweater, pants and socks, especially for overnight journeys on luxury buses! If travelling on holidays or even over the weekend, it is advisable to reserve your seats in advance. Many bus companies allow for you to book online directly through their website. However, some only allow online booking for individuals with Malaysian credit cards, which is not really convenient for international visitors. With some website you will still have to pay a station fee of RM2 at the bus station, with others not. At TBS (KL) it is easy to book a bus directly at the station. Often RM0.40 are charged as insurance by stations, tell them if you don't want that. The common booking websites are: * {{listing | name=Bus Online Ticket |alt=| url=https://www.busonlineticket.com/ | email=sales@busonlineticket.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+603 2027 4626 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-05-26| content= }} * {{listing | name=redBus | alt= | url=http://www.redbus.sg | email=support@redbus.sg | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+65-31582888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Easybook | alt=Easibook | url=http://www.easybook.com | email=enquiry@easybook.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 332 7718 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-03-27 | content= }} === By train === [[File:Padang Besar 4.jpg|thumb|KTM ETS train at Padang Besar station]] State operator [http://www.ktmb.com.my '''Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad''' (KTMB)] provides relatively inexpensive and generally reliable services around [[Peninsular Malaysia]] (but not [[Sabah]]/[[Sarawak]] in [[Borneo]]). The main western line connects [[Butterworth]] (Penang), [[Ipoh]], [[Kuala Lumpur]] and [[Johor Bahru]], while the eastern line branches off at [[Gemas]] and runs through [[Gua Musang]] and the [[Taman Negara]] to [[Tumpat]], near the Thai border and the [[Perhentian Islands]]. Be sure to hold on to your ticket, as it will be checked at your destination station before you are allowed to leave. The pride of KTMB's fleet is the '''ETS''' (Electric Train Service) from the Thai border at [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] to [[Segamat]], with a branch line to [[Butterworth]] (with transfers to/from [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] by ferry), running clean, punctual and modern air-conditioned trains daily at up to 140&nbsp;km/h. ETS trains are classified as '''Express''', '''Platinum''', '''Gold''' and '''Silver''', with the former the fastest and stopping only at major stations, and the latter being the slowest and stopping at every station. Seating in all four is the same but faster trains are slightly more expensive, with the fares for the popular KL-Ipoh route clocking in at 46 RM (Express) to 31 RM (Silver). Platinum trains also offer a '''business class''' cabin at extra cost, with wider seats and more leg room, and access to a business class lounge if you are departing from KL Sentral. There is no longer ETS service from Padang Besar to Butterworth; the route is served by '''KTM Komuter''' trains instead, which while also electrified and air-conditioned are designed for commuter rather than long-distance travel. The rest of the network, though, is mostly single-track, with slow diesel locos and all too frequent breakdowns and delays. In May, 2016 KTMB ceased all sleeper trains on the western line, following the electrification of the track to Gemas. An air conditioned 2nd class only, diesel shuttle train now connects the section from Gemas to JB Sentral. Electrification and double tracking of the Gemas to [[Johor Bahru]] section is expected to be completed by 2025. The '''[[Jungle Railway]]''' is the apt description for the eastern line between [[Tumpat]] (close to the Thai border) and [[Gemas]], including stops at [[Gua Musang]], [[Kuala Lipis]], [[Jerantut]] (for [[Taman Negara]]) and Wakaf Bahru (for [[Kota Bharu]] and the [[Perhentian Islands]]). The daytime services on this line use clean, modern and air-conditioned "Class 61" diesel multiple units (DMUs), which have replaced the old non-air-conditioned locomotive-hauled trains, though the seats do not recline, which can make them rather uncomfortable for longer journeys. No daytime services run along the entire line, so you will need to change trains at Kuala Lipis to travel all the way between Gemas and Tumpat. The eastern line also has one night express train (for which reservations are possible and recommended) going in each direction between Johor Bahru and Tumpat. These use older locomotive-hauled trainsets, which have air-con seats and '''Superior Night''' (ADNS) sleeper cars, which have upper and lower berths along each side, each bunk having a solid partition at each end and a side curtain for privacy. The carriages shake and rattle quite a bit but are comfortable and clean, though the toilets may come across as a little grimy. These trains have windows for both top and bottom bunks, unlike on Thai sleeper trains. A third line, known as the '''[https://www.mrl.com.my/en/ East Coast Rail Link]''' is under construction between [[Port Klang]] and [[Kota Bharu]], with plans for it to pass through [[Kuantan]] and [[Kuala Terengganu]] along the way. It is scheduled to be completed in 2027. Tickets can be booked and even printed online at KTMB's site. Enquiries and reservations can be made by phone at KTMB's call centres, {{Phone|+60 3 2267-1200}} (Malaysia) or, {{Phone|+65 6222-5165}} (Singapore). In East Malaysia, the only railway line is run by [https://railway.sabah.gov.my/ '''Jabatan Kereta Api Negeri Sabah''' (JKNS)]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Web-site in Malay only), running from Tanjung Aru near [[Kota Kinabalu]] to the town of [[Tenom]]. The '''[https://www.belmond.com/trains/asia/eastern-and-oriental-express/ Eastern & Oriental Express]''' was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and as of May 2025 only conducts luxury excursions within Malaysia. === By car === [[File:Malaysia Expressway Network.svg|thumb|A map of Malaysia's expressways (all are in Peninsular Malaysia; none are in Sabah or Sarawak), with dotted lines indicating proposed ones that have yet to be built]] {{main|Driving in Malaysia}} Malaysia has an excellent highway network with over {{km|2000}} of expressways, culminating in the '''North-South Expressway''' (''Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan'') along the West Coast from [[Johor Bahru]] at the border with [[Singapore]] all the way to [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]] in [[Kedah]] at the border with [[Thailand]]. There is also the '''East Coast Expressway''' (''Lebuhraya Pantai Timur''), crossing Peninsular Malaysia coast-to-coast from [[Kuala Lumpur]] to [[Kuantan]] before heading up north towards [[Kuala Terengganu]]. Petrol is slightly cheaper than market prices at RM1.90/litre (Ron 95) (in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak). Tolls are payable on expressways, but these are priced at varying degrees, ranging from expensive to reasonable: driving the length of the country {{km|734}} from the Thai border to Singapore costs RM108. While you can drive from Singapore to Thailand within a day on the West Coast, the highway system is considerably less developed on the East Coast, and even less so in Sabah and Sarawak, so be sure to factor in additional travel time if travelling in those areas. Toll prices for highways and causeways inside major cities, especially Kuala Lumpur, are priced exorbitantly, ranging from RM4 to RM7 for each exit. For those thinking of using GPS (Garmin, Papago, Galactio and Mio-Polnav), the Malaysia maps can be downloaded for free from http://www.malfreemaps.com/index.php{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} Garmin user lucky enough to have another choice from http://www.malsingmaps.com/portal/. Both party maps is contributed by the amazing non-profit group of people who share a common passion to make a GPS maps of Malaysia. While driving quality and habits in Malaysia are better than in most of the rest of Southeast Asia, they are not necessarily great, especially compared to what visitors from most Western countries are used to at home. Traffic in Malaysia drives on the left, a legacy left by the British. Beware reckless motorcyclists, especially at night, and especially if you are a pedestrian: locals typically disregard a red light for left turns, putting pedestrians at risk. As a motorist, at traffic lights, motorcyclists will accumulate in front of you — let them drive away first to avoid accidents. Care is needed when driving in larger cities, such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and George Town. Problems include apparently suicidal motorcyclists, congested traffic lanes throughout the day, and bewildering roads especially in the older parts of the city where planning was virtually nonexistent by the then British colonial occupiers. Out of town, however, cars and motorcycles are the best and sometimes the only way to explore the country. Some of the more rural areas have motorcycles and scooters to rent for as little as RM25/day, a great way to explore the local area or larger islands like Langkawi. As expected, most rental agencies will require a valid driving licence to be presented upon rental. Fuel levels are often compared before and after rental, and the vehicle is also checked for damage, so ensure everything is documented, and request a refund of any excess fuel if possible. The bigger car rental companies like Hertz and Avis may also require you to have a valid credit card where a deposit will be authorised but not deducted from (unless there is damage to the car). === By taxi === [[File:Taxi in Penang 02.JPG|thumb|Taxi in Penang]] Taxis are available in all cities and larger towns, although in smaller places you may have to call one (ask any shopkeeper or consult the yellow-pages). You will generally need to negotiate the fare in advance, although prepaid coupon taxis are usually available at airports. RM5 should suffice for a short cross-town trip, while RM100 is enough to hire a taxi for a full day. [[File:KotaKinabalu Sabah Taxi-waiting-for-passengers-01.jpg|thumb|Taxis in [[Kota Kinabalu]], [[Sabah]]]] Many taxis will refuse to use the meter, even though there is an official rate. Most taxis now have a sticker on the rear door informing tourists that haggling is prohibited. Taxi drivers, sensing that you are a tourist, may drive around and take a very long route to reach your destination. If you need a taxi late at night, it is best to use the dial-a-taxi service as there have been incidents in which taxis flagged down during those hours have been fake/unregistered. An unregistered taxi driver might rob or assault you with the help of other assailants. You are also more likely to get a metered taxi by flagging one at a street than at a taxi stand. It is advisable to study maps and compare fares on the internet before visiting the country. Knowing distances between places is helpful when negotiating with taxi drivers. They won't try to fool even a foreigner who demonstrates clearly that he knows the distance from point A to point B is 50 km and not 150 km. Do not accept the first rates for inter-city travels by car offered by hotels, as these could be as much as double normal prices. In this case, negotiate with a taxi driver directly for a better and fair price (for example, a hotel near Balok Beach, not very far from Kuantan, asked 800 RM for a ride to Johor Bahru, while a negotiated price with a taxi driver who could be found in downtown Kuantan came down to a normal 400 RM). But for all this you need to know the exact distance and if possible even the exact itinerary between your departure and arrival point. In Kuala Lumpur, the budget taxis are usually coloured Red and White (City taxi – these taxis are not allowed to travel out of the city e.g. to another state) or Yellow. Taxis are usually small saloons such as Proton Wira and run on NGV (Natural Gas). The Blue taxis are larger saloons or MPVs (Multi Purpose Vehicles) and more luxurious. These cost typically 25–30% more than the budget taxis & are normally available at taxi stands all over Kuala Lumpur including the major malls & hotels. The Red & White taxis can be hailed off the roads and are metered. Ensure that the taxi driver is a Malaysian (all drivers must have a taxi permit &amp; license with their photo on it) before you board, as unscrupulous taxi owners have been known to rent their taxi out to unlicensed stand-ins. All legal taxi drivers must be Malaysian citizens or permanent residents as the Malaysian government does not issue work visas to foreigners to drive taxis. Additionally, beware of unlicensed taxis ''(taxi sapu)'' at the airports. They can literally take you for a ride. There will be touts at the airports offering travellers their taxi service, even pretending to be legitimate. As unbelievable as it may sound, some have been known to rob first time visitors hundreds of ringgit for a single trip into the city, charging 100 times more than the correct fare. At the airports '''always''' get your taxi from the authorised operators' booths set up in the airport itself & '''never''' from anyone that solicits directly. They will always claim to be legitimate but are rarely licensed and may be unsafe. The taxi operator booths can provide you with receipts. Another tip is to book your taxis in advance. All good hotels' concierge will be able to assist you with this. If travelling in an unlicensed taxi you may not be covered by your travel insurance should that taxi be involved in a mishap. === By ride-hailing === The most popular ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/my/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former Southeast Asian operations. You can pay with your card (via the Grab app) or cash; most drivers have change. Rides within KL seldomly cost more than RM15. If it seems overly expensive at a certain moment, walk a little and check again — often near major points of interests ride are more expensive. ===By bicycle=== Although Malaysia's cycling infrastructure is not well developed, travelling by bicycle is a good way to enjoy the scenery while exploring rural Malaysia. Long-distance bicycle tours are sometimes organised by enthusiast groups, including some cross-border tours from Singapore. When cycling on the road, you are required to ride in a single file, and riding in the shoulder is forbidden. Cycling on pedestrian footpaths is also forbidden except for toy bicycles ridden by children under the age of 12. All bicycles must be equipped with a bell and independently-operated brakes on each wheel. A white front light and a red rear light are mandatory when cycling at night. It is legal cycle on any road unless there is a sign prohibiting it. While there is no specific law against cycling on expressways, you are highly advised not to do so for safety reasons; all PLUS expressways (including the Malaysian side of the Second Link from Singapore) and the LATAR expressway linking Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Selangor have signs prohibiting cyclists. ===By boat=== Ferries link the mainlands of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia with several outlying islands. The main ferries foreigners are likely to use are from [[Butterworth]] (for connections with the railway network) to [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] on Penang island, as well as ferries to Kuah in [[Langkawi]] from [[Kuala Perlis]] and [[Kuala Kedah]]. Direct ferries between Penang and Langkawi no longer operate. On the East Coast, ferries operate to the popular dive resort islands, including from [[Mersing]] to [[Pulau Tioman]], from [[Merang]] to [[Pulau Redang]] and from [[Kuala Besut]] to the [[Perhentian Islands]]. There are no ferries between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. ==See== [[File:Penang Malaysia Wat-Chaiya-Mangkalaram-Temple-01.jpg|thumb|Wat Chaiyamangkalaram in [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], [[Penang]]]] [[File:Cameron Highlands Tea Plantation 2012.JPG|thumb|Tea plantations in the [[Cameron Highlands]], [[Pahang]]]] Malaysia is a fascinating country with many faces. It's multi-ethnic and multi-cultural, and its attractions vary from the iconic Petronas Towers in bustling '''[[Kuala Lumpur]]''' to perfect sandy beaches lined with palm trees and dense jungles with orangutangs and tigers. There are various impressive '''national parks'''. Expeditions range from those where you hardly lose sight of the hotel to those where you are fully immersed in the jungle for weeks, with only the guide and yourself. To spot a tiger or wild elephant in its natural habitat you might have to spend more than a few days in the wild, but you'll have no trouble seeing smaller wildlife. '''[[Bako National Park]]''' is the oldest national park in Malaysia and one of the best places to see proboscis monkeys. The vast jungles of '''[[Taman Negara]]''' have become a popular destination for [[ecotourism|ecotourists]], just like the remote but gorgeous '''[[Gunung Mulu National Park]]''', a World Heritage Site famous for its limestone karst formations, stone pinnacles and huge caves. To escape from the muggy tropics, do as the English did and head up to the cool tea plantations of the '''[[Cameron Highlands]]''', the quaint Tudor-style village on '''[[Fraser's Hill]]''' or climb '''[[Mount Kinabalu]]''' in [[Sabah]]. For many people, Malaysia brings pictures of pristine beaches with great diving opportunities to mind - and for good reason. '''[[Sipadan]]''' off the coast of Sabah, and the beautiful '''[[Perhentian]]''' Islands are among the best (and most popular) places. Coastlines in the less industrialized parts of the country, in general, are well worth driving through for their natural beauty and relaxing seaside kampung (villages). Follow the crowds to the postcard perfect sands of the '''[[Langkawi]]''' Islands, where you can have a cocktail on the beach and stay in one of the many resorts. If you're most interested in taking the pulse of a city, don't miss '''[[Kuala Lumpur]]''''s crazy quilt ultra-modern skyline, including the famous Petronas Twin Towers. [[George Town (Malaysia)|'''George Town''']], the capital city of [[Penang]], is known for its great food, colonial architecture, and relatively long-standing and institutionalized Chinese, Peranakan and Indian communities, who share the city with ethnic Malays, Thais and Eurasians. '''[[Ipoh]]''' is a good choice if you enjoy a somewhat slower paced city that features elegant colonial-era buildings from about 100 years ago, and '''[[Malacca]]''' is for those who want to trace the colonial and imperial history of Malaysia several hundred years further back. For a completely different experience, head to '''[[Kota Bharu]]''' to discover a unique conservative Islamic regional culture influenced by [[Thailand]], only a few kilometres away, or visit the diverse cities of [[East Malaysia]], like '''[[Kuching]]''' and '''[[Kota Kinabalu]]'''. Especially when travelling with children, consider visiting one of the country's excellent zoos, such as [[Taiping]] Zoo, [[Kuala Lumpur]]'s Zoo Negara, [[Johor Bahru|Johor]] Zoo and [[Malacca]]'s Zoo. == Do == [[File:Perhentian Beach (106319844).jpg|thumb|A beach on [[Perhentian Islands]], [[Terengganu]].]] [[File:Amphiprion clarkii sipadan.jpg|thumb|A first glance at Sipadan's colourful underwater life]] Malaysia has excellent '''[[scuba diving]]'''. Some of the more popular spots are the islands off the [[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] of peninsular Malaysia ([[Perhentian]], [[Redang]], [[Tioman]] and many more), although the dive season is limited to April to September. However, the most famous dive site &mdash; often ranked among the best in the world &mdash; is [[Sipadan]], off the easternmost tip of [[Sabah|Malaysian Borneo]]. There are many other less well known sites, like [[Layang Layang]]. ===Whitewater Rafting=== You can find tame Grade I to incredibly difficult and dangerous Grade V rapids in Malaysia's many national parks: * Jeram Besu - Grade I-III - [[Pahang]] * [[Telom River]] - Grade V - [[Pahang]] * Kuala Perahu - [[Pahang]] * Lipis River - [[Pahang]] * Anak Jelai River - Grade I-II - [[Pahang]] * Tembeling River - Grade I-II - [[Pahang]] * Sedim River - Grade III-IV - [[Kedah]] * Sungai Selangor - Grade I-III - [[Selangor]] * Kiulu River - Grade II - [[Sabah]] * Padas River - Grade III-IV - Sabah * Sungai Itek (Kampar River) - Grade I-III - [[Perak]] * Sungkai River - Grade I-II - Perak * Singoh River - Grade V - Perak * Endau River - [[Johor]] * Nenggiri River - Grade I-III [[Kelantan]] * [[Kuala Kubu Bahru]], [[Selangor]] ===[[Martial arts]]=== [[File:Men Pencak Silat Match Malaysia vs Vietnam.jpg|thumb|A silat match taking place.]] Malaysia is home to a uniquely Malay style of martial arts known as '''silat'''. Silat tournaments are held between different schools in the country, and the Southeast Asian Games is the premier international tournament in silat, with competitors from the neighbouring countries as well. There is also an equally traditional stylised dance version of silat called ''silat gayung'', which is quite worth seeing if you have the chance. In addition, there are also many kung fu masters among the ethnic Chinese community, and Malaysia is consistently one of the top performers in international wushu competitions. ===Music=== Malaysia is home to a uniquely Malay form of singing called ''dikir barat''. Dikir barat is typically sung by a choir, though there may also be solo parts, and is also either sung ''a capella'', or accompanied only by percussion instruments. Dikir barat competitions are fairly popular among the Malay community, and are frequently broadcast on Malaysian national television. == Buy == ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malaysian ringgit | currencyCode=RM | date=January 2025 | USD=4.3 | EUR=5.0 | GBP=5.8 | SGD=3.3 | AUD=2.8 | IDR=2.8 | THB=1.3 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/myr-malaysian-ringgit XE.com] }} The Malaysian currency is the '''Malaysian ringgit''', abbreviated as '''RM''' (ISO code: '''MYR'''). It is divided into 100 '''sen''' (cents). The ringgit used to be referred to as the dollar and you may see the '$' symbol on older notes. Coins in Malaysia are issued in denominations of RM0.05 (silver), RM0.10 (silver), RM0.20 (silver or gold), and RM0.50 (silver or gold). Banknotes in Malaysia are issued in denominations of RM1 (blue), RM5 (green), RM10 (red), RM20 (orange), RM50 (green/blue) and RM100 (purple). 5 sen coins are mainly given as change in large establishments or supermarkets whereas peddlers and street vendors might be reluctant to accept them. The Singapore and Brunei dollars are also known as ''ringgit'' in Malay, so when near border areas you might want to check to be sure which currency they are quoting the price in. ====ATMs==== Widely available in cities, but do stock up on cash if heading out into the smaller islands or the jungle. Many ATMs, especially those of local banks, won't charge a fee for withdrawals in Malaysia (e.g. CIMB) — one of the upsides of Islamic banking. However, in 2024, Euronet acquired MEPS and is now the largest non-bank ATM provider in Malaysia. They are well known for their high fees and bad customer experience. Try to avoid them! Many ATMs (like Euronet) will offer to do the currency conversion for you, which is disadvantageous (often involving a markup of 4–14%) — this is how they make money. So, '''always decline [[Money#Dynamic currency conversion|currency conversion]]''' to your home currency! Due to fraud risk, many Malaysian ATMs do not allow you to withdraw using foreign debit cards. If your card is rejected, try another ATM. If you call your bank or credit company, they are often not aware of what happened because the transaction is declined by the Malaysia bank. Make sure to bring cash or other forms of money in case your debit card is rejected. ====Credit cards==== They can be used in most shops, restaurants and hotels, although '''skimming''' can be a problem in dodgier outlets. For credit card usage, make sure your credit/debit card is chip based as most merchants no longer accept '''magnetic strips''' based cards. ====Currency exchange==== Counters can easily found in major shopping areas and have a better exchange rate than in banks and airports. Be sure to say the amount you wish to exchange and ask for the 'best quote' as rates displayed on the board are often negotiable, especially for larger amounts. Large foreign banknotes, such as €500, are almost impossible to change for a good rate in some areas, especially in Sabah or Sarawak, where the banks offer a much lower rate comparing to the one you'd get if changing a banknote of smaller amount. Some money exchangers in Kota Kinabalu or Kuching even may refuse your business if you have large foreign banknotes, so the best option is to bring smaller notes unless you are willing to shop around. '''Foreign currencies''' are ''not'' generally accepted as is. The major exception is Singapore dollars, which may be accepted in Johor Bahru, but at a steep penalty. They're also accepted by KTMB and toll roads, but at an incredibly unfavorable 1:1 exchange rate, an anomaly dating back to the 1970s when the ringgit was interchangeable with the Singapore dollar. ====Banking==== Banks in Malaysia do handle international transactions. These ranges from a nominal fee if you are an account holder to a slightly more expensive amount if you are only walking in to use a certain service. British banks HSBC and Standard Chartered, and Singaporean bank UOB have a presence in Malaysia. Citibank has exited the Malaysian retail banking market, with all its retail banking assets having been taken over by UOB. Local banking giants are Maybank, RHB, Hong Leong Bank, Public Bank & CIMB Bank, & they are a very good alternative to the earlier mentioned banks, especially in terms of pricing, local knowledge & presence as well as international services available e.g. money transfers. For any enquiries and transactions, get a number, sit down and wait for your turn to be served. (There is no need to queue while you wait in air-conditioned comfort!) Banks are open Monday-Friday from 9:30AM-4PM and selected banks are open Saturday 9:30AM–11:30AM except on the first and third Saturdays of each month. In the states of Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, they are open Sunday to Thursday 9:30AM–4PM. === Costs === Most Western visitors will find Malaysia quite cheap, although it is noticeably more expensive than neighbouring Indonesia. You can live in hostel dorms and feast on hawker food for less than RM50 per day, but you'll wish to double this for comfort, particularly if travelling in more expensive East Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is also generally more expensive than the rest of the country. At the other end of the spectrum, luxury hotels and air fares are also quite affordable, with even the fanciest 5-star hotels costing less than RM400/night. [[File:Bukit bintang from kl monorail 2009.jpg|thumb|''Bukit Bintang'', a popular shopping area in [[Kuala Lumpur]]]] ===Tipping=== Tipping is not customary in Malaysia. A service charge of 10% is included in total bill in most air conditioned restaurants, but otherwise, you are not expected to pay anything more than what is stated in the bill. Most expensive restaurants, bars and hotels may indicate prices in the form of RM19++ ("plus plus"), meaning that sales tax (6%) and service charge (10%) will be added to the bill. Hotel tax of 5% may also be added to this. === Shopping === [[Kuala Lumpur]] is a shopping mecca for clothes, electronics, watches and computer goods, with very competitive prices by any standard. Local Malaysian brands include Royal Selangor pewter (thanks to KL's tin-mining heritage), British India and Eilanto. Traditional Malaysian fabrics (''batik'') are a popular souvenir. The cheapest place to easily buy ethnic souvenirs (especially wood-based) is in [[Kuching]], East Malaysia, and the most expensive place is in the major, posh [[Kuala Lumpur]] shopping centres. In fact, Malaysia has over 1000 shopping complexes, but many, especially outside the capital, have low occupancy due to oversupply. In general shops are open 10:30AM–9:30/10PM in the large cities. They open and close for business earlier in the smaller towns and rural areas. Some shops may also be closed on certain days, such as in [[Malacca]] where many shops and restaurants close on Tuesday. For great second-hand shopping from locals try [https://www.carousell.com.my/ Carousell] or [https://www.mudah.my/ Mudah.my]. If you buy too much while shopping in Malaysia (which is quite easy to do), surface postage rates are very reasonable. Excess luggage at the airport is still high but not as high as in many other countries. Check first with your airline. == Eat == [[File:Nasi Lemak dengan Chili Nasi Lemak dan Sotong Pedas, di Penang Summer Restaurant.jpg|thumb|''Nasi lemak'' coconut rice with ''sotong pedas'' (spicy squid), ''sambal'' chili paste, boiled egg, slices of cucumber, ''ikan bilis'' fried anchovies and peanuts served at a restaurant in Penang]] {{main|Cuisine of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei}} The crossroads of Malay, Chinese and [[Indian cuisine]], Malaysia is an excellent place to eat (''makan'' in Malay). Look out for regional specialities and Nyonya (Peranakan) cuisine, the fusion between Malay and [[Chinese cuisine|Chinese cooking]]. There is even unique Eurasian cooking to be found in the Portuguese Settlement in Malacca, the heartland of the Portuguese Eurasian community. Malaysians are very proud of their cooking and most towns or even villages have their own delicious specialities such as [[Penang]] ''char kway teow'', [[Kajang]] satay, [[Ipoh]] bean sprout chicken, [[Sarawak]] ''laksa'', [[Kelantan]]ese ''nasi dagang'' and [[Sabah]]an ''hinava''. Most eateries rely on word of mouth for advertising and are frequently located in the most inconvenient, out-of-the-way places, so you might want to try asking the locals for their personal recommendations. If you intend to travel around Malaysia trying out the local food, don't be fooled by the names. Sometimes two entirely different dishes from different parts of the country can be known by the same name. For example, ''laksa'' refers to completely different noodle dishes in [[Penang]] and [[Sarawak]]. Generally, you can eat pretty much anywhere in Malaysia. Food outlets are comparatively clean – the only thing you might avoid when you frequent the street or hawker stalls is ice for your drinks, since the blocks of ice used there might not be up to your hygienic standards. In actual restaurants this is not a problem. Also you might want to avoid ordering water from hawker stalls or the ''mamak'' restaurants as you may be served unboiled tap water. Cheaper places often do not display prices; most will charge tourists honestly, but check prices before ordering to make sure. Eating habits run the gamut, but most foods are eaten by '''fork and spoon''': push and cut with the fork in the left hand, and eat with the spoon in the right. As eating is a favourite 'pastime' of Malaysians, the majority are adept at using chopsticks, regardless of background. Noodles and Chinese dishes typically come with these, while Malay and Indian food is traditionally eaten by hand, though a fork and spoon are often used to eat Malay and Indian food in restaurants and can be requested if not provided. If eating by hand, '''always use only your right hand''' to handle the food, as Malays and Indians traditionally use their left hand to handle dirty things. When eating with chopsticks at Chinese restaurants, take note of the usual etiquette and most importantly, ''do not'' stick your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice. This is reminiscent of incense sticks burning at the temple and has connotations of wishing death on those around you. If eating in a group, serving dishes are always shared, but you'll get your own bowl of rice and soup. === Where to eat === [[File:Beaufort Sabah KedaiKopi-01.jpg|thumb|The interior of a kedai kopi near the railway station in [[Beaufort (Sabah)|Beaufort, Sabah]]]] The cheapest places to eat are '''hawker stalls''' and '''coffeeshops''', known as ''kedai kopi'' in Malay or ''kopitiam'' in Hokkien. These shops sell, besides coffee, many other types of food and drinks. Particularly popular and tasty are '''''mamak''''' stalls, run by Indian Muslims and serving up localized Indian fare like ''roti canai''. Most hawker stalls stay open till late and some even operate on shifts so you can find the same stall offering different food at different points throughout the day. You can also do take away from any stall: just ask for ''bungkus'' (Malay) or ''ta pao'' (Cantonese). A hawker meal will rarely cost you over RM5. Hygiene standards in Malaysia are generally good by Southeast Asian standards, and much better than in the Indian subcontinent. Just be observant, and generally speaking, if a stall is patronised by locals, it should be safe to eat there. One step up on the scale is the '''''kedai makanan''''' or the more Western-style '''''restoran'''''. A type to look out for is the '''''nasi kandar''''' restaurant, which originated in [[Penang]] but now can be found in virtually every Malaysian city, with a wide variety of Indian-style curries and toppings to ladle on top of your rice. The Malay answer to nasi kandar is known as '''''nasi campur''''', of which a subtype is '''''nasi padang''''', originating among the Minangkabau people from [[Padang]] in what is today [[Indonesia]]. The Chinese equivalent is known as '''economy rice''' or '''mixed rice''', or by its Cantonese name '''''chap fan''''' (雜飯). However, unlike nasi kandar or nasi campur, Chinese-style economy rice is typically ''not'' halal. '''Seafood restaurants''' (''makanan laut'') are comparatively pricey but still an excellent value by most standards; do check prices before ordering though. Local prawns are gigantic, Chinese-style steamed fish is a treat and crab served with sticky chilli sauce is particularly popular. Last but not least, some less adventurous options. '''Food courts''' in shopping malls are a good way to sample local delicacies in air-conditioned comfort, paying only a small premium over hawker prices. And yes, you can also find McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut and the usual suspects plus imitators throughout Malaysia. === Dietary restrictions === [[File:Su Xin Vegetarian Restaurant.jpg|thumb|A vegetarian restaurant in [[Johor Bahru]], [[Johor]].]] Being a Muslim-majority country, finding '''halal''' food in Malaysia is easy, but most Chinese stalls and restaurants, as well as those serving some indigenous ethnic groups of East Malaysia such as the Iban and Kadazan, are ''not'' halal. Ask if in doubt. Meals at Malay restaurants and Western fast food restaurants like McDonald's, Kentucky Fried Chicken and Pizza Hut are halal. Restaurants at major hotels are not certified 'Halal' as they serve alcohol as well, but with the exception of Chinese restaurants, they generally don't serve pork. Local Muslims will eat at Western, Chinese and Indian eateries if there is a halal sign on the walls. Most of the restaurants tend to display their halal certification or halal sign on their places. Halal certification is awarded and enforced by a government agency, usually JAKIM. There are ''no'' '''kosher''' establishments in Malaysia, so kosher-observant Jewish visitors will have to bring their own food with them and supplement it with fresh fruit. Kosher grocery stores and restaurants can be found in neighbouring [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], the [[Philippines]] and [[Vietnam]], so you might want to stop in one of those countries to stock up before entering Malaysia. '''Vegetarianism''' is well-understood by the Chinese and Indian communities (not so by the Muslim Malays and other indigenous minorities) and many restaurants or hawker stalls will be able to come up with something on request (DO state "no meat, no fish, no seafood – ASK for vegetables and/or eggs ONLY"), but don't rely entirely on menu descriptions: innocuous-seeming dishes like "fried vegetables" etc. will often contain shrimp paste (''belacan'', commonly used in Malay and spicy Chinese dishes), fish sauce, etc. or even pork bits or lard in non-halal Chinese restaurants, so if in doubt, ask. Indian restaurants usually have very good vegetarian selections – the ''roti'' (Indian flat bread – any kind; including roti canai, roti naan, capati, tosai) are good choices, and DO insist on being given ''dhal'' (lentil-based curry dip) lest you'll be given a fish curry dip. Purely vegetarian Chinese Buddhist restaurants (often serving remarkable "mock meat" products made from tofu, gluten etc.) are quite easy to find in big urban areas with a large ethnic Chinese population. Getting vegetarian food in rural areas, especially those near fishing villages or in Muslim/Malay-dominated regions, may be more difficult, but learning some basic Malay vocabulary will go a long way to help you get your message across – see the [[Malay phrasebook#Eating|Malay phrasebook]]. Upmarket Western restaurants, such as those serving Italian cuisine, will normally have some good vegetarian options. Be careful about Chinese bakery items too, as many seemingly vegetarian items use pork lard to make the pastry. '''Veganism''' is rarely understood in this part of the world and is largely mistaken as a synonym for vegetarianism. The safest bet for a vegan is to patronize a Chinese Buddhist vegetarian restaurant, since Chinese cuisine traditionally does not use dairy products. However, check to ensure that your dish does not contain eggs. And if you're still feeling uneasy or unsure, do not hesitate to ask. == Drink == [[File:Cheng Ho Tea House.JPG|thumb|A tea house in [[Melaka]].]] Malaysians like both coffee (''kopi'') and tea (''teh''), especially the national drink ''teh tarik'' ("pulled tea"), made by the ''Mamak'' (Indian Muslim) community, and named after the theatrical 'pulling' motion used to pour it. By default, both will be served hot, sweet and with a dose of condensed milk; request ''teh o'' to skip the milk, ''teh ais'' for iced milky tea, or ''teh o ais'' for iced milkless tea. Drinking with no sugar at all is considered odd, but asking for ''kurang manis'' (less sugar) will ease the pain. However, if you really want no sugar at all, you can try asking for "teh kosong." Malaysia produces its own tea, but little of it is exported except to neighbouring Singapore due to high domestic demand, so be sure to try some locally-grown tea when you are here. BOH, with its plantations in [[Cameron Highlands]], is Malaysia's largest tea brand. Another peculiar local favourite is the kopi tongkat ali ginseng, a mixture of coffee, a local aphrodisiacal root, and ginseng served with condensed milk that's touted as an alternative to viagra and red bull combined and is usually advertised with a picture of a bed broken in half. Other popular nonalcoholic options include the chocolate drink Milo and lime juice (''limau''). Freshly made fruit juices are also widely available, as well as a wide range of canned drinks (some familiar to many foreigners, some less so). There is also a local drink comprised of white soya milk and black grass jelly (''cincau'') called ''soya cincau''. It can be ordered at most hawker centres and local roadside cafes (''kedai kopi/kopitiam''). === Alcohol === [[Image:Gawai.JPG|thumb|Tuak is widely consumed during Gawai Dayak festival and Christmas Day.]] Although alcohol consumption is illegal for Muslims in Malaysia, licensed venues are permitted to sell alcohol to non-Muslims. With the exception of tax-free islands ([[Labuan]], [[Langkawi]], [[Tioman]]) and duty free shops (for example in [[Johor Bahru]]), prices are comparatively high, with a can of beer costing RM7.50 or more even in supermarkets or 7-Eleven stores. However, in East Malaysia, smuggled liquors are widely available. The legal drinking age in Malaysia is 21. In East Malaysia, particularly [[Sarawak]], ''tuak'' is a common affair for any celebration or festivals such as Gawai Dayak and Christmas Day. ''Tuak'' is made from fermented rice to which sugar, honey or other various condiments are sometimes added. It is normally served lukewarm without ice. Visitors can choose from 'strong' flavour of tuak (which is normally fermented for years), or 'mild' flavour (which is sometimes prepared only a week or even a day before). In [[Sabah]], cheap liquors are very widely available at most supermarkets and mini markets in the state. Other alcoholic drinks such as beer and whisky are also widely available. On the other hand, ''tuak'' in [[Kelantan]] also can be considered as a liquor since that it contains a trace amount of fermented ''nipah'' or sap juice. The alcohol content in Kelantan ''tuak'' can easily reach 50% after 3 days from the time it was extracted. [[File:Tapai peuyeum Pasar Baru.JPG|thumb|Cassava tapai is shown in plastic bags in the foreground]] ''Tapai'' consists of cassava (less often, rice) that is fermented and eaten as a food (though the liquid in the bottom can also be drunk). As it is commonly eaten during Hari Raya Puasa, the major Muslim holiday celebrating the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, it is interesting that Islamic legal authorities associated with the Islamist opposition Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) have given Muslims a special dispensation from laws against consuming alcohol, in the case of tapai. ===Water safety=== There are differences of opinion on the safety of Malaysian tap water. See [[#Stay healthy]]. == Sleep == Malaysia has ample affordable accommodations in all of its cities and towns, with full range from budget until luxury ones. Service charges and taxes are not yet part of the advertised price so be sure to add 16% to the listed price. Hotels and hostels are required to charge a '''tourism tax''' on international visitors: RM10 per room per night, which may not be included in the advertised rates. ===Budget=== Budget hotels and youth [[hostels]] are available in most cities and around most tourist destinations. As with most budget accommodations, some are more reliable than others. Be cautious when selecting budget accommodation to avoid places that house illegal vice activities. Larger cities will have YMCAs that are safe bets. Another noticeable budget hotel chain is [http://www.tunehotels.com Tune Hotels,] an affiliate of the budget airline, Air Asia. They are expanding and have hotels at numerous locations throughout the country ===Mid-range=== Mid-range hotels are readily available just about anywhere. Prices of 3–4 star hotels are upwards from RM100 and are generally reliable in terms of quality. ===Splurge=== Malaysia is home to some of the most affordable 5-star hotels, service apartments, and resorts in the world. They are found in larger cities like Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching and also in some coastal towns and areas. Also, almost all islands have upscale resorts and spas for the wealthy traveller. == Learn == Malaysia's universities are generally well-regarded and draw exchange students from near and far. Among Malaysia's universities, the undisputed most prestigious one is the '''[https://www.um.edu.my University of Malaya]''' (UM), located in Kuala Lumpur. In addition, several foreign universities have established campuses in Malaysia. == Work == Obtaining a working visa takes some effort. The easiest way to work in Malaysia is probably to work for an overseas company and get posted to Malaysia. The [https://www.imi.gov.my/ Malaysian Immigration Department website] has basic advice. In order to obtain a work permit, you need to have an offer from your future employer who will have to do the paperwork for you. It's very expensive and comes with many restrictions if a company wants to hire a foreigner and as such next to impossible. As stated above, a feasible way is to get transferred. Finding a job is otherwise unlikely unless you are married to a local and even then it remains difficult. Working days in [[Kelantan]], [[Terengganu]] and [[Kedah]] are from Sunday to Thursday, with Fridays and Saturdays being weekend holidays, similar to most Middle Eastern countries in alignment with Friday prayers of Muslims. The other states observe the normal weekend in the rest of the world. [[Johor]] adopts the Friday-Saturday weekend, though businesses may still stick to the normal week cycle to accommodate Singaporean practices. == Stay safe == {{infobox|Emergency numbers|Central emergency number '''999'''}} Though the crime rate is higher than in neighbouring Singapore, Malaysia is generally a safe country for visitors. Crimes towards tourists are usually restricted to bag-snatching, pickpocketing and petty theft. It is important to keep a close eye on valuable items. Theft is more common in crowded places, such as markets and on public transport. Generally, if you avoid deserted areas, get back to your hotel before midnight and use your common sense, you're unlikely to be assaulted. Homosexuality is a crime and gay bars may be raided by police; gay and lesbian tourists should be discreet and avoid any public displays of affection. ===Crime=== {{Cautionbox|Malaysia treats '''drug offences''' severely. With limited exceptions, the '''death penalty''' is possible for those convicted of trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting more than 15 g of heroin, 30 g of morphine, 30 g of cocaine, 500 g of cannabis, 200 g of cannabis resin and 1.2 kg of opium, and possession of these quantities is all that is needed for you to be convicted. If the death penalty is not imposed, lengthy imprisonment and mandatory whipping is still expected. Even if a person suspected of drug trafficking is acquitted, Malaysian authorities can still detain that person without any charges for 2 years. Unauthorised consumption can result in up to 10 years' jail, or a heavy fine, or both. You can be charged for unauthorised consumption as long as traces of illicit drugs are found in your system, even if you can prove that they were consumed outside the country and you can be charged for trafficking as long as drugs are found in bags that are in your possession or in your room, even if they aren't yours and regardless of whether you're aware of them - therefore be vigilant of your possessions.|lastedit=permanent}} There have been some reports of [[pickpockets]] and snatch-and-run thieves in some of the major cities like [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Petaling Jaya]] and [[Johor Bahru]]. As a general precaution, never carry your bags on the side facing the road and always walk facing the oncoming traffic. Additionally, walk a few feet deeper away from the roads. Women travellers should take extra precautions at night. Johor Bahru is known for having a relatively higher crime rate compared to the rest of Malaysia, and armed robberies and snatch thefts could happen at night in run-down areas of the city. Travel documents and valuables are best deposited in a hotel safe. In Malaysia, some crimes are punished with caning, known locally as whipping. Being convicted of rape, vandalism, illegal entry, bribery, overstaying your visa, and certain other crimes could get you caned. '''This is no slap on the wrist!''' Strokes from the thick rattan cane are ''very painful'', will take some time to heal and probably leave you with a permanent scar. Credit card fraud is a growing problem in this country, especially if you order in an on-line store during your stay. Use credit cards only in reputable shops. Look for online reviews but recognise that even these can be astroturfed to provide a higher average review than the company deserves. ===Corruption=== While not as bad as the likes of Thailand, Vietnam or Indonesia, corruption remains a significant issue in Malaysia. Traffic police have been known to pull over motorists to demand bribes of RM100-200; this tends to happen somewhat more often to those driving cars with Singapore licence plates. Nevertheless, there have been some crackdowns on this, and bribery is punishable by up to 20 years in jail. Anyone who tries to bribe public officials may be arrested on the spot and placed in a lock-up overnight to be charged for the offence in the morning. If this happens on a Friday or on eve of public holidays, you will find yourself spending a few nights in the lock-up as the courts are only open Monday to Friday. Do not let this dissuade you from requesting help — generally Malaysian police are helpful to tourists. Customs and immigration officers are comparatively cleaner than other Southeast Asian countries, though there have been isolated cases where tourists are demanded bribes from immigration officials. Do check your passport before driving off when entering by land from the Singapore border though, as immigration officers have been known to "forget" to stamp people in, and you will be subject to fines of several thousand ringgit for illegal entry when you try to leave Malaysia if your passport was not stamped on entry. * {{listing | name=Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) | alt=Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia(SPRM) | url=https://www.sprm.gov.my/ | email=info@sprm.gov.my | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1800-88-6000 | fax=+603-8870-0934 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6741935 | lastedit=2025-03-11 | content=The main anti-corruption agency for Malaysia. A list of MACC branches can be found [https://www.sprm.gov.my/index.php?id=21&page_id=75&articleid=430 here]. }} ===Traffic safety=== When on foot, be careful when crossing the street. Vehicles will often ignore pedestrian (zebra) crossings. In addition, reports of road rage during accidents are still common, so if you are involved in an accident be very careful when negotiating or dial 999 for help. ===Other=== Public demonstrations are uncommon in Malaysia due to police crackdowns. Should one occur it may be dealt with in a heavy-handed manner, so '''avoid them at all costs'''. It is generally not allowed for non-Muslims or non-Sunnis to proselytize. In particular, attempting to persuade Muslims to convert out of their religion is illegal, and if you are caught doing this, you will be expelled from the country or even face criminal responsibilities. ===Natural disasters=== Peninsular Malaysia is largely free from [[earthquakes]] as there are no nearby faultlines, though tremors can occasionally be felt in the upper storeys of tall buildings when a major quake occurs in neighbouring Indonesia. East Malaysia, on the other hand, especially the area around Mount Kinabalu, does experience occasional earthquakes (such as the fatal one occurring in 2015). [[Cyclones|Typhoons]] are also exceedingly rare, though one hit the southern part of [[Johor]] in 2001. However, the Nov-Jan monsoon season often results in flooding due to torrential rains, and landslides are known to occur, most notably on the East Coast. [[Tsunamis]] are a rare occurrence, though Penang and a few islands on the north of the West Coast were hit by the infamous tsunami in 2004. == Stay healthy == There are differences of opinion about whether and to what degree '''[[tap water]]''' is safe to drink. It is treated and monitored, but the condition of the pipes is not always reliable. Therefore, you may want to boil or filter it first just to be on the safe side, as most locals do. You can also buy bottled water, which is very inexpensive. Ice in drinks might be made from tap water, but nowadays, most restaurants and even roadside stalls use the cylindrical variety with a hollow tube down the middle that are mass-produced at ice factories and are safer to consume. Heat exhaustion is rare, but do consume lots of fluids, use a hat and sunscreen and shower often! Peninsular Malaysia is largely [[malaria]]-free, but there is a significant risk in Borneo especially in inland and rural areas. [[Dengue fever]] occurs throughout Malaysia in both urban and rural areas, and can be avoided only by preventing [[mosquito]] bites. The mosquito that transmits dengue feeds throughout the daytime, and is most active at dawn and dusk. If you experience a sudden fever with aches and lethargy, seek medical attention immediately. Aspirin and ibuprofen should not be used until dengue fever has been ruled out. Mosquito repellents (''ubat nyamuk'') are widely available. Be careful with mosquito coils, which can easily start fires: set them on a plate or other non-flammable surface and extinguish them before going to sleep. Haze from burning vegetation in neighbouring Indonesia may come and go without warning from the months of May to August so travellers with respiratory ailments should come prepared. Most public washrooms charge a small fee (generally between RM0.20-RM2.00, usually depending on the standard of the facilities), so keep some loose change to hand. If the condition of the sitting toilets is questionable, use the squatting toilets instead - both are usually available, and some believe that the latter are more hygienic and (if you can get used to them) are just as easy to use as sitting toilets. ===Healthcare=== [[File:Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital.JPG|thumb|Public hospital in [[Kuantan]], [[Pahang]]]] The standard of healthcare in Malaysia is generally high, and Malaysia is rapidly emerging as a popular destination for medical tourism, with treatment costs in general far cheaper than in neighbouring Singapore and Western countries. Almost all Malaysian doctors are able to speak English fluently, while most other medical staff are able to converse in at least basic English. Malaysia has a public and private health care system. Health services are adequate in large cities, with English-speaking doctors. Some staff have been trained abroad. In the private sector in particular, the medical staff is often made up of well-trained professionals. Outside urban areas, access to health services and the quality of care vary. Government healthcare facilities are cheap but good, though they tend to be understaffed and consequently, waiting times are long. Due to the shorter waiting times and sometimes hotel-like levels of comfort, most expatriates and visitors prefer to seek out private medical care. Dental services are readily available and prices are often lower than in western countries. However, root canal treatment is considerably more expensive than in western countries, as it is only performed by dental surgeons and not by ordinary dentists. Mental health services are available at least in the capital. In the rest of the country, they may not be available very much. Pharmacies can be found in larger shopping centres and painkillers are available in almost every shop. Prescription medicines may not be available from pharmacies at any time, but only when a pharmacist is present. He or she may be there for part of the day, usually on weekdays. When visiting a doctor, medicines are often available directly from the doctor's surgery or from the hospital pharmacy. When travelling to Malaysia, you should take out comprehensive travel insurance. Doctors and hospitals usually require payment in advance, especially for foreigners. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Keep all receipts and certificates you receive. You can apply for reimbursement afterwards from your insurance company. Services in the private sector are more expensive than in the public sector. You should check the details on the spot. Be vigilant when using private medical services. Doctors may prescribe expensive treatments, tests and medicines that are unnecessary. This is especially true for tourists. Malaysia's largest private healthcare groups are '''[https://www.parkwaypantai.com Parkway Pantai]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', which operates the well-known Gleaneagles and Pantai hospital chains, and '''[http://www.kpjhealth.com.my KPJ Healthcare]'''. Private medical costs can be high and having [[travel insurance]] is a very good idea. Public hospitals and most private hospitals offer 24-hour on-call medical services. In some Malaysian tourist resorts, you can ask for a doctor at the hotel reception. Pressure chamber treatment is available in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kuantan, Lumut, Ipoh, Sabah and Labuan. There is limited availability of rental equipment at hospitals. In most cases, assistive devices have to be purchased. ===Food=== While in general Malaysian food is not unhealthy, the fact that eateries and cafés add unnecessary amounts of sugar to drinks and snacks can be a problem. Also, the sheer amount of these places will always give you an opportunity to have an unhealthy snack or drink, no matter where you are. Be aware, and for example try to have your drinks without sugar, especially fruit shakes, which should come sweet naturally. == Respect == {{infobox|What's in a name?|*Malaysian '''Malay''' names are usually given name + ''bin'' or ''binti'' (son/daughter) + father's name. ''Mohammed bin Abdullah'' would usually be called Mohammed by his friends, and Mr. Mohammed for business. Sometimes, the person's given name appears after the Mohammed or Abdul (example: ''Mohammed Faizal bin Abdul Nasser'') so, in such a case, he would usually be addressed as Mr. Faizal.<br /> *'''Chinese''' place their family name first, so ''Tan Ah Heng'' is Mr Tan for business and Ah Heng to his friends. Many have Western names, so he may also be known as ''John Tan''.<br> *'''Indian''' names are complex, but the south Indian (Tamil) names usually found in Malaysia have two patterns: either given name + ''a/l'' or ''a/p'' (''anak lelaki'' (son of)/''anak perempuan'' (daughter of)) + father's name, or father's initial + given name. Given names are often long and may be abbreviated, so ''Thirumurugan a/l Govindasamy'' may just be addressed as Thiru by his friends and Mr Thiru for business.<br /> *'''Other ethnic minorities''', such as the Iban and Kadazan have their own naming conventions. The foolproof method, therefore, is to ''ask'' how the person would like to be addressed.}} When entering a home or a place of worship, always take off your shoes (this is often required at hostels too). Also, never eat with your left hand or give a gift with your left hand, and never point with your forefinger (you may use a closed fist with the thumb instead). Do not point with your feet or touch a person's head either. Swastikas are commonly seen in Hindu and Buddhist temples, and are regarded as a religious symbol by these communities. They emphatically do '''not''' represent Nazism or anti-Semitism. ===Politics=== As in many countries, it is best not to criticise the government or the Malaysian royal families as a visitor. You may hear Malaysians criticise their own government, but you do not need to take sides; just listen and feel free to talk about your feelings about your own government. The '''bumiputera''' policy (laws granting ethnic Malays special rights not granted to the other races) is a very polarising and sensitive issue, and best avoided as a conversation topic with Malays. Another sensitive issue to be aware of is Israel: Malaysia is one of several countries that do not recognize Israel, and Malaysian Muslims are ardent in their support for Palestine. In addition, many Malaysians associate Jews in general with Israel or otherwise have prejudices against Jews; however, these feelings do not necessarily extend to individual Jewish people, and violence against Jewish visitors is unlikely. ===Dress=== It is advisable to dress respectfully, particularly in rural areas (wearing trousers or a long skirt, not shorts and covering your shoulders is recommended but not essential). In more cosmopolitan cities such as Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Malacca, Ipoh and Johor Bahru, as well as East Malaysian states (Sabah and Sarawak) attitudes are more liberal. Women are not legally required to wear the hijab, known locally as the ''tudung'', except when entering mosques, where it is required for both Muslims and non-Muslims. ===Sexuality=== As a predominantly Muslim country, Malaysia tends to be conservative about sexuality. Public showing of affection in the more diverse, larger cities is tolerated but might invite unnecessary attention from the public. In more rural areas and in very conservative states like [[Kelantan]] and [[Terengganu]] on the East Coast of the Peninsula it is frowned upon and is best avoided. '''Don't kiss your partner in public'''; you'll inflame local sensibilities. Big cities like Kuala Lumpur have a fairly active gay scene and gay bashing is rarely heard of. However, same-sex relationships are a taboo subject and "carnal intercourse against the order of nature" is punished by up to 20 years jail and whipping (men only) under colonial era laws not usually enforced against consenting adult heterosexuals. Different states may also impose '''consecutive''' sharia law punishments of up to 3 years and six lashes against Muslims of all genders. ==Cope== ===Electricity=== Malaysian sockets are designed for the 3-pin rectangular-pronged British plug. Electricity is delivered at 240 V, 50 Hz. ===Newspapers=== Malaysia's main Malay newspapers are ''[http://www.bharian.com.my Berita Harian]'' and ''[http://www.utusan.com.my Utusan Malaysia]''. There are also numerous Chinese newspapers, the most popular ones being the ''[http://www.chinapress.com.my China Press]'' (中國報), ''[http://www.enanyang.my Nanyang Siang Pau]'' (南洋商報) and ''[http://www.sinchew.com.my Sin Chew Daily]'' (星洲日報), as well as several Tamil newspapers. Malaysia's English-language paper of record is the '''''[https://www.nst.com.my New Straits Times]''''', a splinter from the Singaporean Straits Times, which is available at most hotels and newsstands. '''''[https://www.thestar.com.my The Star]''''' and '''''[https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/ Free Malaysia Today]''''', an English-Malay bilingual online newspaper, are also available. ==Connect== === Internet === Broadband Internet is available for free in most accommodations and some restaurants, especially fast-food outlets and shopping malls, including Starbucks and Coffeebean, some McDonald's and Subway. However, not every restaurant has WiFi, especially smaller ones. Southasian restaurants have WiFi more often. Cybercafés are a thing of the past, since nowadays most people have mobile data. === Mobile and data === Malaysia was one of the first countries in the world to offer 4G connectivity. There are a lot of providers, which usually offer good coverage. The easiest SIM to get is U-mobile, from RM10, with ok-ish coverage and a 30-day package of "unlimited" or 40GB internet for RM35 or RM25 per month respectively (2025). SIMs are available in every 7-11 and in some other places. There are also other SIM cards (RM10) available in some cheaper malls and Pakistani places which have 50GB packages for RM18. If you travel to Singapore or other neighboring countries, you can buy a 14-day "unlimited" package for RM35 (Feb 2024), which works in all of them including Malaysia. Other providers have better coverage but don't offer worthwhile roaming options. === Telephone numbers === The country code for Malaysia is +60. [[File:Sandakan Sabah Public-Phone-Booths-01.jpg|thumb|Phone booths in Sabah]] [[Telephone service|To call]] a Malaysian number from abroad * '''from overseas except Singapore''' dial the international access code, the country code for Malaysia, the area or mobile operator code without the "0", and then the phone number (for 123-4567 in Kuala Lumpur, in Wikivoyage written as +60 3 123-4567, dial {{nowrap|+60 3 123 45467);}} * '''from Singapore''', dial 02, the area or mobile operator code with the "0", and then the phone number {{nowrap|(02 03 123 45467).}} To domestically call a Malaysian number, * from a mobile phone or a landline phone '''outside the local area''', dial the area or mobile operator code, including the leading "0", followed by the phone number (03 123 4567), * from '''within the local area''' just dial the phone number without any code; '''from mobile phones''', you can always include the area or operator code, although it is unnecessary between phones with the same operator (where you are is immaterial with mobile phones). '''To call a foreign number''' not in Singapore from Malaysia, use the international dialling prefix '''00''' (on mobile phones: "+"). For Singapore, instead use the pseudo area code 02 and leave out the international prefix and country code. On the Maxis network, take advantage of 50% IDD rates on international calls via IDD132. This doesn't require any registration: just dial "132" prior to the "00" (don't use "+"). Malaysia also has four '''mobile telephone''' service providers, [http://www.maxis.com.my Maxis], [http://www.digi.com.my DiGi], [http://www.celcom.com.my Celcom], and [http://www.u.com.my U Mobile] which utilise codes '''012''', '''013''', '''014''', '''016''', '''017''', '''018''', '''019''', used like area codes. Network connection in Malaysia is excellent. Mobile number portability has been implemented, meaning a code like 012 that traditionally belonged to Maxis, can now be a DiGi subscriber. Mobile networks utilize the GSM 900 and 1800 systems. 3G (WCDMA), EDGE and HSPDA networks are available in larger towns. International roaming onto these networks is possible if your operator allows it. '''Prepaid SIM cards''' for sale at airports are pretty affordable; a one-week SIM card with a good amount of data might cost about RM20-30 (2019). See also [[#SIM cards|SIM cards]] above. Malaysian '''landline telephone numbers''' have either seven or eight digits. The country is divided into areas which have been assigned two- or three-digit area codes, which have to be dialled when calling from outside the area (or from a mobile phone). The area codes are: * '''03''' — Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor (all are Klang Valley), Pahang (Genting Highlands only) * '''04''' — Kedah, Penang, Perlis * '''05''' — Perak, Pahang (Cameron Highlands only) * '''06''' — Malacca, Johor (Muar district only), Negeri Sembilan * '''07''' — Johor (all districts except for Muar) * '''082''' — Sarawak (Kuching and Samarahan districts) * '''083''' — Sarawak (Sri Aman and Betong districts) * '''084''' — Sarawak (Sarikei, Sibu and west Kapit districts) * '''085''' — Sarawak (Miri and Limbang districts) * '''086''' — Sarawak (Bintulu districts and Belaga) * '''087''' — Sabah (Interior Division), Labuan * '''088''' — Sabah (West Coast and Kudat Division) * '''089''' — Sabah (Sandakan and Tawau Division) * '''09''' — Kelantan, Pahang (all districts except Genting Highlands), Terengganu === Postal services === [[File:Pos Malaysia Arau Post Office.jpg|thumb|Post office in [[Arau]], [[Perlis]]]] Postage stamps for postcards internationally is just 0,9 RM (as of February 2024) Many international courier services, such as Fedex, DHL and UPS, are available in towns and cities, but the main postal service provider is [http://www.pos.com.my Pos Malaysia] which reliably provides postal services to most countries in the world. Postage rates in Malaysia are cheap. Much cheaper than Thailand, Singapore or Vietnam, and surface post is available as well. The mail is reliable and trustworthy. When posting a parcel, do not seal the box. This is to allow for inspection in case illegal items are posted this way (ask for help at the post office if needed). A local alternative to the international courier companies mentioned above is the Pos Laju, which provides just as reliable a service at a fraction of the cost! Non-urgent letters and postcards can be dropped in postboxes inside post offices or red postboxes found outside post offices and along main roads. If there are two slots in a postbox use the one that says "lain lain" for international post. Post offices are open M–Sa 8AM–5PM except public holidays, although a few in Klang Valley stay open until 10PM. In the states of Kedah, Kelantan, Johor and Terengganu they are closed on Fridays and public holidays. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|3|108|zoom=6}} hy2xyr8ue3vohqbbl1ccqeerdoehz3w 5091282 5091281 2025-07-11T09:57:50Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091282 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner | Cameron_Highlands_Tea_Plantation_banner.jpg}} '''Malaysia''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]], on the Malay Peninsula, as well as on northern [[Borneo]]. The country is one of Asia's tiger economies, having seen great economic and human development during the last several decades. While the capital Kuala Lumpur is a cosmopolitan city, deep jungles cover vast swaths of the land, and the offshore islands are home to pristine beaches and some of the world's best scuba diving sites. Malaysia is also a foodie's paradise, with its diverse ethnic groups contributing to an incredibly rich culinary heritage. == Regions == Malaysia is divided into two main geographical regions, commonly known as Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. See [[Malaysia#Geography|Geography]] for more information. === Peninsular Malaysia === {{Mapframe|3.95|108.85|width=500|height=200|zoom=5|staticmap=Malaysia regions map.png|name=Map of Peninsular and East Malaysia}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q213467,Q188947,Q188096,Q188953,Q189710,Q1865,Q182378,Q213893,Q185221|fill=#69999f|title=[[West Coast (Malaysia)|West Coast]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q185944,Q189701,Q191346|fill=#71b37b|title=[[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q183032|fill=#d09440|title=[[Johor|South]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q179029,Q214504|fill=#867ea9|title=[[Sabah]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q170462|fill=#4f93c0|title=[[Sarawak]]}} {{Regionlist | region1name=[[West Coast (Malaysia)|West Coast]] | region1color=#69999f | region1items=[[Perlis]], [[Kedah]], [[Penang]], [[Perak]], [[Selangor]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Putrajaya]], [[Negeri Sembilan]], [[Malacca (state)|Malacca]] | region1description=The more developed region, offering the modern capital, [[Kuala Lumpur]], UNESCO World Heritage cities with colonial flair and the [[Langkawi]] archipelago. Perlis, Kedah and Perak are the gateways to [[Thailand]] overland. | region2name=[[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] | region2color=#71b37b | region2items=[[Kelantan]], [[Pahang]], [[Terengganu]] | region2description=The more traditional Muslim region, home to ''[[Taman Negara]]'' (National Park), numerous unspoilt islands and the [[Jungle Railway]], which winds through the rural hinterlands. Kelantan is the gateway to [[Thailand]] overland. | region3name=[[Johor]] | region3color=#d09440 | region3items= | region3description=Comprising just one state, two coastlines, endless palm oil plantations and the gateway to [[Singapore]] via a causeway or bridge. }} ===East Malaysia=== {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Sabah]] and [[Labuan]] | region1color=#867ea9 | region1items= | region1description=Superb scuba diving in [[Sipadan]] island plus muck diving at [[Mabul]], nature reserves, the federal enclave of [[Labuan]] and the mighty [[Mount Kinabalu]]. | region2name=[[Sarawak]] | region2color=#4f93c0 | region2items= | region2description=The southern state of East Malaysia (Borneo). Home to traditional longhouses, lush jungles and national parks in contrast to the state capital, [[Kuching]]. It is the gateway to [[Brunei]] and [[Indonesia]] overland. }} == Cities == [[File:PetronasKLCC.jpg|thumb|The iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur]] <!-- Only cities of primary importance to tourists here, maximum 9 --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuala Lumpur]]|wikidata=Q1865}} — the multi-cultural national capital, home of the Petronas Twin Towers * {{marker|type=city|name=[[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]]|wikidata=Q61092}} — the capital of [[Penang]] and hub of Malaysia's second largest metropolitan area, famed for its colonial-era architecture, multi-cultural populace, food and arts scene * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Malacca]]|wikidata=Q61089}} — the historical city of Malaysia with colonial-style architecture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ipoh]]|wikidata=Q271619}} — the capital of [[Perak]], with a historic colonial old town and tin mining area * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Johor Bahru]]|wikidata=Q231318}} — capital of [[Johor]] and Malaysia's third largest city, at the border with Singapore * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuantan]]|wikidata=Q817578}} — capital of [[Pahang]] and largest city on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kota Kinabalu]]|wikidata=Q137271}} — close to tropical islands, lush rain forest and Mount Kinabalu * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuching]]|wikidata=Q220445}} — capital of [[Sarawak]], and largest city in East Malaysia * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Miri]]|wikidata=Q986803}} — resort city of Sarawak near the border with Brunei and gateway to [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]], [[Gunung Mulu National Park]] <!-- Only cities of primary importance to tourists here, maximum 9 --> ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cameron Highlands]]|wikidata=Q1028741}} — famous for its tea plantations * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Perhentian Islands]]|wikidata=Q2070782}} (''Pulau Perhentian'') — glittering jewels off the East Coast still undiscovered by mass tourism * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Taman Negara]]|wikidata=Q728141}} — a large area of rainforest national park spanning [[Kelantan]], [[Pahang]] and [[Terengganu]] * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kinabalu National Park]]|wikidata=Q60967}} — home of Mount Kinabalu * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Langkawi]]|wikidata=Q273303}} — an archipelago of 99 islands known for its beaches, rainforest, mountains, mangrove estuaries and unique nature. It's also a duty-free island * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sipadan]]|wikidata=Q1412482}} (''Pulau Sipadan'') — one of the best dive spots in the world * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Redang]]|wikidata=Q1897123}} (''Pulau Redang'') — popular island destination for scuba divers * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Tioman]]|wikidata=Q771765}} (''Pulau Tioman'') — once nominated one of the most beautiful islands in the world * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Fraser's Hill]]|wikidata=Q3086678}} — a time warp to the colonial era == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMalaysia.png}} Malaysia is a mix of the modern world and a developing nation. With its investment in high technology industries and moderate oil wealth, it has become a rich nation in Southeast Asia. Malaysia, for most visitors, presents a happy mix: there is high-tech infrastructure and things generally work well and more or less on schedule, but prices remain more reasonable than, say, [[Singapore]]. The demographics between the rich and poor can also be quite apparent: for example, a high rise luxury condominium building built right across the street from old, rundown shop lots or flats. However, you will not find extreme rural poverty or gigantic urban slums as in most other countries of Southeast Asia. In terms of attractions, peninsular (West) Malaysia contains islands with gorgeous beaches and a fraction of visitors found in [[Thailand]]'s most popular beaches, mountain retreats surrounded by tea plantations, interesting historical cities, world-famous food, and the highly modern, multi-cultural capital of [[Kuala Lumpur]]. East Malaysia contains lush jungles with diverse native population and wildlife, as well as stunning natural attractions such as giant caves, beautiful mountains and fantastic diving sites. Notably, however, Malaysia is not as popular among backpackers as other Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand, [[Cambodia]] and [[Vietnam]], partly due to the relatively higher costs, and partly due to the more religious and conservative, albeit generally tolerant, culture. It also lacks the ancient Hindu and/or Buddhist temples and temple complexes of its neighbours, though it does have some large ones built since the 19th century. === History === [[File:Melaka-Dutch-Square-2164.jpg|thumb|The Dutch Square in Malacca]] Before the rise of the European colonial powers, the Malay Peninsula and the [[Malay Archipelago|Malay archipelago]] were home to empires such as the Srivijaya (whose capital was near modern [[Palembang]], [[Sumatra]], but which included the entire Malay Peninsula and lands further north at its greatest extent), the Majapahit (centred in [[Java]], now part of Indonesia, but believed by most scholars to have included the entire Malay Peninsula and most of coastal Borneo among its vassal states) and the [[Malacca]] Sultanate. The Srivijaya and Majapahit empires saw the spread of Hinduism to the region, and to this day, despite the fact that Malays are Muslims, many Hindu legends and traditions survive in traditional Malay culture. Mass conversion to Islam only occurred after the arrival of Arab traders during the Malacca Sultanate. [[File:Fort Cornwallis Eck.JPG|thumb|Fort Cornwallis in [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], [[Penang]] marked the site where the British colonisation of Malaya began in 1786.]] During the 16th century the Portuguese established the first European colony in Southeast Asia by defeating the Malacca Sultanate. The Portuguese were religiously intolerant and cruel, so the Sultan of Johor assisted the Dutch in defeating them, and the Netherlands took control of the city. The British also established their first colony on the Malay peninsula in [[Penang]] when it was ceded by the Sultan of Kedah in 1786. Finally, the area was divided into Dutch and British spheres of influence with the signing of the Anglo-Dutch Treaty in 1824. With this treaty, the Dutch agreed to cede Malacca to the British and in return, the British ceded all their colonies on Sumatra to the Dutch. The line of division roughly corresponds to what is today the border between Malaysia and [[Indonesia]]. Before World War II, the Malay Peninsula was governed by the British as the Federated Malay States (Selangor, Perak, Negeri Sembilan and Pahang), which were governed as a single protectorate, the Unfederated Malay States (Johor, Kedah, Perlis, Terengganu and Kelantan), which were each governed as separate protectorates. The Straits Settlements (Malacca, Penang and Singapore) were crown colonies directly administered by the British colonisers. These colonies and protectorates were collectively referred to as "[[Malaya]]". British Borneo consisted of the British colony of North Borneo, the Kingdom of Sarawak, which was ruled by a British family known as the "White Rajas", and the British protectorate of Brunei. [[Pacific War|World War II]] was disastrous for the British Malayan Command. The Japanese swept down both coasts of the Malay Peninsula and despite fierce fighting, much of the British military was tied down fighting the Germans in Europe and those that remained in Malaya simply could not cope with the Japanese onslaught. The British military equipment left to defend Malaya was outdated and no match for the modern technology used by the Japanese, and the only two British battleships based in the region, the HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse, were sunk by Japanese bombers off the East Coast of Malaya. By 31 January 1942, the British had been pushed all the way back to Singapore, which fell to the Japanese on 15 February 1942. The situation was no different on Borneo, which fell to the Japanese on 1 April 1942 after months of fierce fighting. The Japanese occupation was brutal, and many, particularly the ethnic Chinese, suffered and perished during the occupation. Among the most notorious atrocities committed by the Japanese were the Sandakan Death Marches, with only 6 out of 2,345 prisoners surviving the war. After World War II, the Federated Malay States, Unfederated Malay States and the Straits Settlements of Malacca and Penang were federated to form a single British colony known as the Malayan Union, with Singapore being split off to form a separate colony. In the Malayan Union, the sultans of the various states ceded all their powers except those in religious affairs to the British crown. However, widespread opposition to the Malayan Union led the British to reconsider their position, and in 1948, the Malayan Union was replaced by the Federation of Malaya, in which the executive positions of the sultans were restored. In Borneo, the White Rajas ceded Sarawak to the British crown in 1946, making it a crown colony of the United Kingdom. [[File:Dataran Merdeka (18359791323).jpg|thumb|Malaysian flag flying in ''Dataran Merdeka'', Kuala Lumpur]] On 31 August 1957, Malaya gained independence from the British. At midnight, the Union Jack was lowered, and the Malayan flag raised in its place at what is today ''Dataran Merdeka'' (Independence Square) in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. The crowd, led by the first Prime Minister of Malaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman, then proceeded to chant "''Merdeka''" seven times. On 16 September 1963, Malaysia was formed through the merging of Malaya with the British colonies of North Borneo (now known as Sabah), Sarawak and Singapore, with Brunei deciding not to join. The first several years of the country's history were marred by the Confrontation (''Konfrontasi'') — actually a series of acts of aggression by Indonesia that ultimately ended in her defeat and a formal peace that has held ever since — and claims to Sabah from the Philippines. On 9 August 1965 Singapore was officially expelled from the federation after several bloody racial riots as Singapore's majority Chinese population and the People's Action Party, led by Lee Kuan Yew (later the long-ruling Prime Minister of Singapore), were seen as a threat to Malay dominance. There were further racial riots in 1969, which led to the forced resignation of Tunku Abdul Rahman; his replacement by Tun Abdul Razak; changes in the Malaysian Constitution that sought to prevent the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition led by the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) from ever being defeated in a future national election; and the start of the New Economic Policy, which sought to aggressively promote the economic interests of the generally poorer Malay community (and also the non-Malay indigenous peoples of East Malaysia) over those of the generally less poor Chinese community (with the poorest major ethnic group, the Indians, and also to a very large extent the Orang Asli [aboriginal people] in the Peninsula mostly ignored in the process). In 1975, boat people from across the South China Sea in [[Vietnam]] started coming, and Malaysia became one of the most important places of first refuge for Indochinese refugees, but in general, only those of the Muslim Champa minority were invited to stay permanently. Later, during the period of tremendous economic development under the long premiership of Mahathir Mohammed, a large number of immigrant workers were invited from [[Bangladesh]], [[Indonesia]], [[India]], and several other countries in the area, and even more immigrated illegally. This further increased the diversity of the population, and quite a number of the workers were reported in local newspapers to have intermarried with local women, but it also led to social strife as many Malaysian men resented the competition, and while the economy depended on immigrant workers to do jobs most Malaysians were no longer willing to do, now that their standard of living was higher, most Malaysians also did not want to permanently absorb a large and potentially almost limitless number of poor people from the much more populous countries in the region. Some immigrants were expelled and even caned for immigration violations, but the issue has never been really resolved. Things came to a head in 2015 when allegations of corruption by then-prime minister Najib Razak surfaced in connection with 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), which was originally set up to promote economic development by attracting foreign investment. The allegations led to the ''Bersih'' (Malay for "clean") rally in which protesters unsuccessfully called for Najib to step down. However, widespread discontent arising from the 1MDB corruption scandal continued to simmer, eventually leading to a shock first-ever electoral defeat for the incumbent BN coalition in the 2018 general election. === Politics === Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy consisting of 13 states and 3 federal territories, nominally headed by the king (''Yang di-Pertuan Agong'', lit. Paramount Ruler), whose position rotates among the rulers of the 9 royal states of Malaysia every five years, giving Malaysia a unique political system of rotational monarchy. In practice, the king is only the nominal head of state, while the prime minister is the one who wields the most authority in government. Malaysia's government is largely based on the British Westminster system, consisting of a bicameral national parliament. The lower house, known as the ''Dewan Rakyat'' (Hall of the People) is elected directly by the people. The upper house, known as the ''Dewan Negara'' (National Hall), consists of 26 members elected by the state governments, with each state having 2 representatives, while the remaining members are appointed by the king. The head of government is the prime minister, who is the party leader of the winning party in the lower house. At the state level, each of the states also has its own unicameral ''Dewan Undangan Negeri'' (State Legislative Assembly), with the head of the state government being the ''Menteri Besar'' (First Minister, often translated as "Chief Minister" in English-language media) in the royal states, and the ''Ketua Menteri'' (Chief Minister) in the non-royal states. === Geography === Malaysia comprises two geographic regions, Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, which are separated by the South China Sea. '''Peninsular Malaysia''' (''Semenanjung Malaysia'') occupies all of the Malay Peninsula between [[Thailand]] and [[Singapore]], and is also known as West Malaysia (''Malaysia Barat'') or the slightly archaic [[Malaya]] (''Tanah Melayu''). It's home to the bulk of Malaysia's population, the capital and the largest city [[Kuala Lumpur]], and generally more economically developed. Peninsular Malaysia consists of plains on both the East and West Coasts, separated from each other by a mountain range known as the ''Banjaran Titiwangsa'', with the West Coast being more densely populated and generally more well-developed than the East Coast. Separated some 800&nbsp;km to the east of Peninsular Malaysia is '''East Malaysia''' (''Malaysia Timur''). East Malaysia occupies the northern third of the island of [[Borneo]], shared with [[Indonesia]] and tiny [[Brunei]]. Much of the development on East Malaysia is centred around the cities of [[Kuching]], [[Miri]] and [[Kota Kinabalu]]. Outside of the major cities and smaller towns are impenetrable jungle where head hunters once roamed and coastal plains rising to mountains. East Malaysia is rich in natural resources and is very much Malaysia's hinterland for industry and tourism, though those who make the trip will find it to be a world-class ecotourism destination. ===People=== Malaysia is a multicultural society. While Malays (a branch of the [[Austronesian]] group) make up a 52% majority, 27% of Malaysians are Chinese (who are especially visible in the cities), 9% are Indians, 12% are members of aboriginal peoples (often called ''Orang Asli'', Malay for "Original People"), and there is a miscellaneous grouping of 1.5% "others", including Thai communities in northern border states and the Portuguese clan in Malacca. The majority of the population (including virtually all Malays, as well as a significant minority of Indians) adheres to [[Islam]], the state religion, and there are substantial minorities who practice [[Christianity]], [[Buddhism]], Taoism, [[Hinduism]], [[Sikhism]] and animism, which are allowed under the constitution, subject to the supremacy of Islam — for example, it is illegal to proselytize other religions to Muslims. ===Culture=== Malaysia shares many cultural similarities with its neighbours, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore due to their common history. As the first great kingdoms to emerge in the region were Hindu kingdoms with much influence from India, Malay culture has substantial Indian influences. This is most visible in Malay cuisine with its relatively heavy use of curries, albeit using local instead of Indian spices, meaning that Malay curries often have a unique local flavour that is different from their Indian counterparts. In addition, the Malay language contains quite a few loan words from Sanskrit, and traditional Malay arts show noticeable influences from Hindu mythology, albeit Islamised. Malaysia's minorities also continue to maintain their own distinct cultures, with the Chinese and Indian communities continuing to preserve the traditions brought from their ancestral homelands. In particular, Malaysia's ethnic Chinese community is considered to have preserved Chinese culture and language the best among all the overseas Chinese communities of the world. Moreover, as Malaysia was unaffected by the Cultural Revolution, the ethnic Chinese community of Malaysia has preserved many elements of traditional Chinese culture that have been lost in mainland China. ===Holidays=== {{ramadandates}} One of the significant characteristics of Malaysian culture is its celebration of various festivals and events. The year is filled with colourful, exhilarating and exciting activities. Some are religious and solemn but others are vibrant, joyous events. One interesting feature of the main festivals here is the 'open house' custom. This is when Malaysians celebrating the festival invite friends and family to come by their homes for some traditional delicacies and fellowship. Multicultural Malaysia celebrates a vast range of festivals, but the ones to look out for nationwide are Islamic holidays, most notably the fasting month of '''Ramadan'''. During its 29 or 30 days, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sex from dawn to sunset. Not all Muslims follow the tradition, or sustain the full period of Ramadan fasting, but most do make a very serious effort. Pregnant, breast feeding or menstruating women are not expected to fast, nor are the elderly, the infirm, or travellers. People get up early before sunrise for a meal (''sahur''), and take off early to get back home in time to break fast (''buka puasa'') at sunset. At the end of the month is the festival of '''Eid ul-Fitr''', known locally as '''Hari Raya Puasa''' or '''Aidilfitri''', when many locals take one to two weeks off to 'balik kampung' or return to their home towns to meet family and friends. Accordingly, this is one of the many times in a year when major cities like Kuala Lumpur have virtually no traffic congestion. Another important festival is the Muslim festival of '''Eid ul-Adha''', known locally as '''Hari Raya Haji''' or '''Aidiladha'''. It is during this festival that Muslims perform the Hajj or pilgrimage to Mecca. In local mosques, cows and goats are donated by the faithful and sacrificed, after which the meat is distributed to all. Family reunions are also celebrated during other main festivals when locals usually put on traditional costumes and finery as these festivals are an integral feature of Malaysian society. During the month of Ramadan, non-Muslims are expected to be considerate of those fasting. Non-Muslims, as well as Muslims travelling (''musafir''), are exempt from fasting but it is polite to refrain from eating or drinking in public. Public school systems also require non-Muslims to refrain from eating in front of those who are fasting. Many restaurants close during the day and those that stay open maintain a low profile. Business travellers will notice that things move rather more slowly than usual. The upside for foreign travellers are the Ramadan bazaars in every city and town, bustling with activity and bursting at the seams with great food. That said, most Chinese stalls and restaurants remain open, and you will see people eating and drinking openly in Chinese-majority areas. Hotels and restaurants also pull out all stops to put on massive spreads of food for fast-breaking feasts. During the month of Ramadan, meals at the end of fasts are usually considered grand feasts. Worldwide fast-food chain McDonald's is known for holding several all-you-can-eat Ramadan feasts during the month. {{CNYdates}} Other major holidays include '''Chinese New Year''' (around January/February), '''Deepavali''' or '''Diwali''', the Hindu festival of lights (around October/November), the Buddhist holiday of '''Wesak''' (around May/June), and '''Christmas''' (25 December). During Chinese New Year, George Town and Ipoh become the major cities as many local Chinese working and living in KL originated from there. However this situation is changing gradually, as more and more people are making Kuala Lumpur their home town. While visiting during such festivals, travellers will be able to experience many wonderful celebrations, but the downside is many ethnic shops/eateries will be closed. The best option is to visit during the period just after the first two days of the major festival (Hari Raya/Chinese New Year), when shops will open, and the festive mood has still not died down. Another major celebration is '''Deepavali''', celebrated by the Malaysian Hindus as the festival of light originating from classical India and one of the main cultural celebrations. In Malaysia, locals practice this tradition by wearing new clothes and receiving token gifts of money. This practice has been adapted by all Malaysians regardless of their religion. They distribute red packets or ''ang pow'' during Chinese New Year, green packets or 'duit raya' for Hari Raya Aidilfitri and multi-coloured packets during Deepavali. Some uniquely Malaysian festivals of note include the '''Harvest Festival''' at the end of May each year and the ''''Pesta Gawai'''' in early June, both thanksgiving celebrations held in [[East Malaysia]]. '''Thaipusam''' is a Hindu festival that falls in January or February and is one of the must-see events. The largest procession in the country takes place at Batu Caves, Selangor. Male devotees carry decorated altars or ''kavadi'' up a flight of 272 steps towards the temple, all this while also having religious spears and hooks pierced through external surfaces of their bodies. The ability is attributed to divine intervention and religious fervour. Female devotees join the procession carrying pots of milk on their head instead. === Climate === The '''climate''' in Malaysia is equatorial. The north-east monsoon (October to February) deluges Borneo and the East Coast of the Peninsula in rain and often causes flooding, while the West Coast (particularly Langkawi and Penang) escapes unscathed. The milder south-west monsoon (April to October) reverses the pattern. The southern and central parts of Peninsular Malaysia, including perennially soggy Kuala Lumpur, are exposed to both but even during the rainy season, the showers tend to be intense but brief. Malaysia is close to the equator, so warm weather is guaranteed. Temperatures generally range from 32°C (90°F) at noon to about 26°C (79°F) at midnight. But like most Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia's sun-shining days are interrupted by monsoon season every year, and night temperatures can hit a low of about 23°C (73°F) on rainy days. Temperatures tend to be cooler in the highlands, with the likes of [[Genting Highlands]], [[Cameron Highlands]] and [[Fraser's Hill]] having temperatures ranging from about 17°C (63°F) at night to about 25°C (77°F) in the day. Mount Kinabalu is known to have temperatures falling below 10°C (50°F). ===Tourist information === * [https://www.tourism.gov.my/ Malaysia Tourism Corporation] == Talk == {{seealso|Malay phrasebook}} The national-level official language of Malaysia is '''[[Malay phrasebook|Malay]]''' (officially ''Bahasa Malaysia'', sometimes also known as ''Bahasa Melayu'') and '''English''' is also the co-official language of the state of [[Sarawak]]. The [[Indonesian phrasebook|Indonesian]] language, spoken across the border in Indonesia, is similar to Malay, and speakers of both languages can generally understand each other. The main differences are in the loanwords: Malay borrowed more from English, while Indonesian borrowed more from Dutch. Some parts of Malaysia near the Thai border, most notably [[Kelantan]], have dialects of Malay which are nearly incomprehensible to speakers of standard Malay, though most people in these areas will be able to converse in standard Malay if needed. '''English''' is compulsory in all schools and widely spoken in the larger cities, among the well-educated upper class, as well as around the main tourist attractions, although in rural areas a little Malay will come in handy. There is also a local dialect of English spoken among Malaysians in urban areas, not inappropriately known as '''Manglish''', which has its own simplified grammar and a vocabulary that is mostly English but includes borrowings from Malay and several other locally-spoken languages; it takes a bit of getting used to if you intend to join in the conversation on local topics. Almost all Malaysians will not pronounce the letter "h", so "three" becomes "tree". Malaysians will almost always try to speak 'standardized English' (British) when approached by Western travellers. In general, police stations and government offices have English-speaking staff on duty. [[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]] is taught to those who attend Islamic religious schools, and many clerics as well as other very observant Muslims have a functional command of Arabic. However, it is not widely spoken, though the Malay language does have a large number of loan words from Arabic. You also might notice some examples of Malay written with Arabic letters. This is called Jawi, and it is still used for religious publications and inscriptions, especially in more conservative states like [[Kelantan]], although the Latin alphabet is much more commonly used throughout the country. The Chinese community in Malaysia speaks a wide variety of Chinese dialects including [[Cantonese phrasebook|Cantonese]], [[Teochew phrasebook|Teochew]], [[Hakka phrasebook|Hakka]], [[Hainanese phrasebook|Hainanese]], [[Fuzhou dialect phrasebook|Hokchiu]] and [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]]. [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] is taught in Chinese schools while Cantonese is commonly heard in the mass media due to the popularity of TVB serials from Hong Kong among the Chinese community, so many are conversant in both, regardless of their native dialect. Malaysian cities with large ethnic Chinese populations will often have a dialect serving as a lingua franca among that community: in Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh, this is Cantonese; in Penang and Klang, Hokkien; and in Kota Kinabalu, Hakka. The most commonly spoken Indian language is [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]]; others include [[Malayalam phrasebook|Malayalam]], [[Punjabi phrasebook|Punjabi]] and [[Telugu phrasebook|Telugu]]. In the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia bordering Thailand, there are various ethnic Thai communities, known locally as the ''Orang Siam'', who speak various dialects of [[Thai phrasebook|Thai]]. [[Malacca]] in the south is also home to a Portuguese community which speaks a [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]] based creole. The remote forest areas of Peninsular Malaysia are also home to various tribal people known as the ''Orang Asli'', who speak various indigenous languages such as Semelai, Temuan and many others. In East Malaysia several indigenous languages are also spoken, especially [[Iban phrasebook|Iban]] and Kadazan. Films and television programmes are usually shown in their original language with Malay subtitles, although some children's programmes are dubbed into Malay. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== {{VisaRestriction |Entry '''will be refused''' to citizens of [[Israel]] with an Israeli passport unless holding a letter of approval from the Malaysian Ministry of Home Affairs. Additionally citizens of Israel require an onward ticket and will be asked to purchase one or be '''refused entry'''. Malaysia is no longer concerned about other nationals' passports that show entry stamps and/or visas from Israel. |lastedit=2013-03-07 }} ====Visa==== [[Image:World map of the visa policy of Malaysia.png|thumb|375px]] Most nationalities can enter Malaysia without a visa and can reside in Malaysia for 14 to 90 days, depending on their nationality. Refer to the '''[https://www.kln.gov.my/ Ministry of Foreign Affairs]''' for current information regarding visa requirements and stay periods. The East Malaysian states of [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]] each maintains its own immigration system and separate controls: even Malaysians from other states require a passport or MyKad on arrival. Those who wish to enter Malaysia for purposes other than for a Social or Business visit still require a visa for any period except for US citizens who enter for the purpose of studying. Nationals of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Montenegro, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Serbia, and Sri Lanka need a visa but can apply for an '''e-visa''', which is valid for 3 months for a stay of up to 30 days. You'll have to print out the visa once it's issued and bring proof of sufficient funds, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation when you enter the country. Citizens of India are exempted needing to have a visa for a stay of up to 30 days until December 31, 2026. '''Overstaying''' a visa will result in a US$10, €7.50 or RM30 fine per day. However it's fairly simple to avoid overstaying a visa by doing a "visa run" to a neighbouring country overland or via a cheap flight. Malaysia may impose '''caning''' as a punishment for overstaying a visa. ====Malaysia Digital Arrival Card==== Since 2024, all foreign travellers must complete the '''[https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)]''' online for every visit to Malaysia. You can only complete this card a maximum of 3 days ahead of your arrival — in practice you can even submit it on the day of arrival while in the queue to immigration. At KLIA there are also PCs available before immigration where you can complete the card. ====Autogates==== Travellers from most visa-free countries may use the '''autogates''' to complete immigration formalities when entering and exiting Malaysia via multiple ports of entry such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and the Causeway in Johor Bahru. Your passport needs to be valid for a minimum of 6 months if entering via KLIA, or 3 months if entering by road from Singapore. Entry through any other immigration checkpoint will require you to be processed at a manned immigration counter. {{infobox|Fingerprinting at Immigration|Malaysian Immigration authorities '''fingerprint''' visitors on arrival and departure. These fingerprints may well find their way to other country's authorities or other non-state agencies.}} It is advisable to use autogates if you can, as the immigration queues can be quite brutal. If you are qualified for the autogates, you don't need to enroll. You can proceed directly to an autogate, even if it's your first visit. There is one exception: if you want to proceed to East Malaysia, you need to go to a human counter and have your passport stamped as it is required by Malaysian law. You will need to clear immigration by showing your passport with an entry stamp when you arrive at a port in East Malaysia. If you are not a Malaysian citizen and cannot use the autogates, '''ensure that your passport is stamped on entry''', or you would be considered to have entered illegally otherwise (and Malaysian immigration officials don't always give entry stamps unprompted). Fines on the order of RM3,000 will be imposed when you try to leave without the entry stamp in your passport. Also '''ensure that your passport is stamped when you leave''', or you would be considered to have left illegally otherwise, which could cause problems should you wish to visit Malaysia again in the future. ====Transit visas==== Even though citizens of Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka normally require a visa, they can transit the same airport for up to 120 hours provided they arrive and depart on the same airline, land at [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]], [[Kota Kinabalu]], [[Kuching]], [[Penang]] or [[Johor Bahru]] and present an air ticket for the onward flight. ====Customs==== Travellers are not permitted to bring more than the equivalent of US$10,000 in Malaysian ringgit per person in and out of the country. There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you can bring into or out of Malaysia, but you are required to declare to customs if the total amount of cash and traveller's cheques you are carrying exceeds the equivalent of US$10,000 per person. Non-Muslim travellers aged 21 and above are permitted to bring up to 1L of alcohol into Malaysia. There is ''no'' duty free allowance for tobacco products including cigarettes; all tobacco products must be declared and duties paid. ===By plane=== [[File:KLIA MTB&Tower.jpg|thumb|[[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]] in [[Sepang]], [[Selangor]].]] National carrier '''[https://www.malaysiaairlines.com Malaysia Airlines]''' (MAS) has extensive coverage within Asia, and intercontinental flights to Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. It regularly ranks high in airline quality assessments. Low-cost carrier '''AirAsia''' and its sister company, '''AirAsia X''', connects an ever-expanding set of countries including [[Australia]], [[China]], [[Cambodia]], [[Hong Kong]], [[India]], [[Indonesia]], [[Laos]], [[Macau]], [[New Zealand]], the [[Philippines]], [[Singapore]], [[Sri Lanka]], [[Thailand]], [[Myanmar]] and [[Vietnam]]. Emirates also flies from most cities to [[Kuala Lumpur]] via [[Dubai]], and flights to [[Perth]], [[Australia]], make a brief stop in [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport|KLIA]]. * {{listing | name=AirAsia | alt= | url=http://www.airasia.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 3 8775-4000, 1 300 88 9933 (in country only)| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Malaysia Airlines | alt= | url=http://www.malaysiaairlines.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 3 7846-3000, 1-300-88-3000 (in country only)| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Emirates Airlines | alt= | url=http://www.emirates.com/my/english/index.aspx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 36 207 4999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} Most international flights land at '''[[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]] [http://www.klia.com.my (KLIA)]''' ({{IATA|KUL}}). KLIA's predecessor, the '''Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport''' ({{IATA|SZB}}) in Subang near [[Kuala Lumpur]] handles mostly domestic turboprop fights, with limited regional services to [[Singapore]] and [[Jakarta]]. See the [[Kuala Lumpur#get in|Kuala Lumpur '''Get in''' section]] for detailed airport information. Other airports which have significant numbers of flights to regional destinations are [[Kota Kinabalu]] (Sabah), [[Penang]], [[Kuching]] (Sarawak), [[Langkawi]] and [[Johor Bahru]]. Some other smaller airports also serve limited international flights from [[Singapore]]. === By train === * '''From Singapore:''' There's a shuttle train service which runs seven times each way during the morning and evening peak periods from Woodlands Train Station (in the north of [[Singapore]]) to JB sentral in [[Johor Bahru]], costing MYR5 from the Malaysian side and SGD5 on the Singapore side. Conventional intercity trains then connect [[Johor Bahru]] with [[Gemas]] (where you can transfer to a train to [[Kuala Lumpur]]) and Tumpat, near [[Kota Bharu]]. They don't always match up to the shuttle times, so be prepared for long waiting times or get a backup plan by bus should you miss the shuttle. Early morning trains to Singapore and late evening trains to Malaysia are usually packed on the weekdays and the traffic flow reverses on the weekends. Booking online at the [http://www.ktmb.com.my KTMB website] may reserve a precious seat without hassle. When travelling from Singapore into Malaysia, both Singaporean and Malaysian immigration checks are conducted at Woodlands Train Station before boarding the train for Malaysia. In the reverse direction, Malaysian immigration checks are conducted at JB Sentral before boarding, while Singaporean immigration checks are conducted on arrival in Woodlands. * '''From Thailand:''' Trains from Thailand start and terminate at the border at [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] where Thai and Malaysian immigration formalities are all conveniently done in the station, and you can transfer between Malaysian and Thai trains. There are two Padang Besar stations; one in Thailand and one in Malaysia; be sure to get off the train only at the Padang Besar station in Malaysia, as that is where both Thai and Malaysian immigration checks are conducted, and where transfers between Malaysian and Thai trains take place. There is also a less used eastern route from [[Hat Yai]] to Thai border town [[Sungai Kolok]], but there are no through trains to the nearby Malaysian station at Wakaf Bahru (near [[Kota Bharu]]). === By bus === Long-distance buses/coaches into Malaysia run from Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. Please see the relevant city pages for more details. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — There are buses to [[Miri]] and [[Kota Kinabalu]], leaving from the waterfront in downtown [[Bandar Seri Begawan]]. There are also buses to [[Limbang]]. * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — Direct buses operate between [[Pontianak]] or [[Singkawang]] in [[West Kalimantan]] and [[Kuching]] in [[Sarawak]]. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — A multitude of bus companies operate direct routes from Singapore to various destinations in [[Peninsular Malaysia]], including [[Malacca]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Penang]], [[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] cities and even [[Petaling Jaya]] and [[Subang Jaya]]. Frequent public buses make the short run between Singapore and [[Johor Bahru]], and you can save a few bucks by changing at JB's Larkin terminal to a cheap domestic bus instead of taking a more expensive direct bus. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — Several companies operate services from [[Kuala Lumpur]] and other cities in Malaysia to [[Hat Yai]] in [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]], where direct connections are available to [[Bangkok]] and many other Thai destinations. === By taxi=== Special cross-border taxis operate between Singapore and Johor Bahru. See [[Johor_Bahru#By_taxi]] for details. === By road=== [[File:Danok Sadao Border Crossing2.jpg|thumb|Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint in [[Kedah]], on the border with [[Thailand]]]] Land crossings are possible from [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]] and Singapore into [[Peninsular Malaysia]], as well as from Brunei and [[Kalimantan]] (the Indonesian side of Borneo) into [[Sarawak]]. There is no official crossing into [[Sabah]] from Indonesia even though they share a land border. An International Drivers Permit (IDP) is required. See the respective city or state pages for more detailed information. Starting from 1st October 2024, a vehicle entry permit (VEP) is required to drive a foreign-registered car into Malaysia from Singapore. You must apply for the permit [https://vep.jpj.gov.my/ online], affix the RFID tag that will be sent to your home address to your car, and activate the tag online before you can drive into Malaysia. Unless you already have a car in Singapore, it makes more sense to cross the border first and rent much more cheaply in Malaysia. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — The main crossings are at '''Sungai Tujoh''' on the [[Miri]], [[Sarawak]], to [[Bandar Seri Begawan]] (Brunei) road, and the '''Kuala Lurah-Tedungan''' checkpoint which is used for traffic travelling between Bandar Seri Begawan and [[Limbang]] in [[Sarawak]]. You can also access the [[Temburong]] district of Brunei by road from [[Limbang]] via the Pandaruan (Puni on the Brunei side) checkpoint and [[Lawas]] via Trusan (Labu on the Brunei side). * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — The main crossing is at the '''Tebedu-Entikong''' checkpoint on the main [[Kuching]]-[[Pontianak]] road. The other two official crossings are the '''Biawak-Aruk''' crossing on the main Kuching-[[Singkawang]] road, and the more remote '''Lubok Antu-Nanga Badau''' crossing. All three crossings are between the Malaysian state of [[Sarawak]] and the Indonesian province of [[West Kalimantan]]. There are also several unofficial crossings that are used by locals, but as a foreigner, you should not use them as that is considered to be illegal entry. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — The two crossings are the '''Causeway''' which links [[Johor Bahru]] with '''Woodlands''' in Singapore, and the Malaysia-Singapore '''Second Link''' (''Linkedua'') which links [[Iskandar Puteri]] with Tuas in Singapore. See [[Johor Baru#Get in|Johor Bahru '''Get in''' section]] and [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore '''Get in''' section]] for more details. Generally speaking, the Second Link is less congested than the Causeway, and is more convenient for those who wish to drive up the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, but a lot less convenient for people who just want to visit Johor Bahru. Singapore-registered cars must have their fuel tank filled to at least ¾ full when leaving Singapore. '''Cycling into Malaysia''' is permitted only through the Causeway but not the Second Link; use the motorcycle lanes and have your entry processed at the manual motorcycle counters. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — International checkpoints (from west to east, with the Thai towns in brackets) are at '''[[Wang Kelian]]''' ([[Satun]]) and '''[[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]]''' ([[Padang Besar (Thailand)|Padang Besar]]) in [[Perlis]], '''[[Bukit Kayu Hitam]]''' ([[Sadao]]) and '''Kota Putra''' (Banprokob) in [[Kedah]], '''Pengkalan Hulu''' (Betong) in [[Perak]], and '''Bukit Bunga''' (Buketa) and '''[[Rantau Panjang]]''' ([[Sungai Kolok]]) in [[Kelantan]]. Thai immigration has long been known to demand a bribe of RM2/20 baht per person to stamp you in or out, though there has been a crackdown on this. Instead, there is now an official fee levied by Thai immigration if you are crossing the border at peak times (5AM-8:30AM, noon-1PM or 4:30PM-9PM on weekdays, and all day on weekends and both Malaysian and Thai public holidays); this is 25 baht for the driver and 5 baht for each passenger if crossing the border by car, and 10 baht for the rider and 3 baht for the pillion if crossing by motorcycle. No fee is payable if you are walking across the border. === By boat === [[File:Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal.jpg|thumb|Ferry terminal in [[Iskandar Puteri]], [[Johor]]]] Ferries connect various points in [[Peninsular Malaysia]] with [[Sumatra]] in Indonesia and [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]], [[Sarawak]] with Brunei, and [[Sabah]] with [[East Kalimantan]] in Indonesia and [[Mindanao]] in the Philippines. Luxury cruises also run from Singapore and sometimes [[Phuket]] (Thailand) to Malaysia. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — Ferries travel daily between the Muara Ferry Terminal in Brunei and [[Labuan]]. * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — The main jumping-off points from Indonesia are the [[Riau Islands]] of [[Batam]], [[Bintan]] and [[Karimun]]; [[Dumai]], [[Medan]] and [[Pekanbaru]] on the [[Sumatra]] mainland as well as [[Nunukan]] in [[East Kalimantan]]. Ferries link [[Batam]] with Batu Pahat, [[Iskandar Puteri]] and [[Johor Bahru]]; [[Bintan]] with [[Johor Bahru]]; [[Karimun]] with Batu Pahat and Kukup in [[Johor]]; Dumai with [[Malacca]], Muar in [[Johor]], Port Dickson (in [[Negeri Sembilan]]) and [[Port Klang]], the port for [[Selangor]]; Pekanbaru with [[Malacca]]. Daily ferries also link Nunukan and [[Tarakan]] with Tawau in [[Sabah]]. There are also minor crossings like between Bengkalis in [[Riau]] and Batu Pahat; [[Sumatra]] and [[Malacca]] and Muar in [[Johor]]; and Tanjung Balai Asahan in [[North Sumatra]] with [[Port Klang]], the port for [[Selangor]]. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — A daily ferry runs between Tanah Merah and [[Desaru]], and there is a weekend service between Tanah Merah and [[Pengerang]], both in [[Johor]]. See the [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore '''Get in''' section]] for details. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — Four ferries travel daily (reduced to three during Ramadan) between Tammalang at [[Satun]] and Kuah on [[Langkawi]], Malaysia. Both passenger bum boats and vehicular ferries operate between Ban Taba near [[Tak Bai]] in [[Narathiwat_(province)|Narathiwat province]] and Pengkalan Kubur in [[Kelantan]], Malaysia. === On foot === It is possible to enter Malaysia from [[Thailand]] on foot at [[Wang Kelian]] and [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] (both in [[Perlis]]), [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]] ([[Kedah]]), Pengkalan Hulu ([[Perak]]) and [[Rantau Panjang]] ([[Kelantan]]). From [[Singapore]], it is possible to cross into Malaysia on foot using the Causeway, but be prepared for a very long walk as Malaysian immigration is now located 2km inland from the border. Unlike the previous customs and immigration complex, the current one was not set up to handle pedestrian traffic, meaning that there are no pedestrian footpaths on the Malaysian side, and you have to walk on the road among vehicular traffic to get to customs and immigration. Crossing the Second Link on foot is not allowed; not that there would be any practical way to continue your journey on either side even if you did. In East Malaysia, there is a ferry from [[Kota Kinabalu]] to [[Labuan]]. == Get around == Immigration controls are in place for travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, as well as between the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. Malaysian citizens need to present their ID cards, while foreign citizens are required to present their passports in order to travel. === By plane === Flying is the only practical option for traveling between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, as well as reaching some of the more remote outposts of Borneo. Largely thanks to budget carrier '''[http://www.airasia.com AirAsia]''', Malaysia is crisscrossed by a web of affordable flights with advertised promotional prices starting at RM9 for flights booked well in advance. State carrier '''[http://www.malaysiaairlines.com Malaysia Airlines]''' also has competitive fares which now include equally or even lower-priced tickets if booked in advance through the internet, with a few more frills. Their offshoot '''[https://www.fireflyz.com.my/my/en/home.html Firefly]''' operates a handy network of turboprop flights radiating out of Penang and Kuala Lumpur's second airport Subang (Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah). In [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]], '''[http://www.maswings.com.my MASWings]''', operates turboprop services linking interior communities, including those in the [[Kelabit Highlands]], with coastal cities. === By bus === {{infobox|Report Bad Drivers|Bus drivers (especially on more "rural" routes) sometimes drive carelessly, speed like maniacs, overtake on blind corners, etc. The vast majority of journeys are problem-free. However, some horrific accidents attributed to reckless driving have led to a crackdown and a nationwide hotline, and an SMS number for reporting these drivers/vehicles has been set up. This number is conveniently pasted on the back of every single large vehicle in the country.}} [[File:Higer-RapidPenang.JPG|thumb|Public bus in Penang]] The cheapest way to travel in Malaysia is by bus. All towns of any size have a bus terminal offering connections to other parts of the country. There are many companies of varying degrees of dependability, but two of the largest and more reliable are '''[https://www.transnasional.com.my/ Transnasional]''' and '''[http://www.plusliner.com.my/ NICE/Plusliner]'''. 24-seater "luxury" buses are recommended for long-distance travel. Air conditioning on some buses can be extremely cold so don't forget to bring a good sweater, pants and socks, especially for overnight journeys on luxury buses! If travelling on holidays or even over the weekend, it is advisable to reserve your seats in advance. Many bus companies allow for you to book online directly through their website. However, some only allow online booking for individuals with Malaysian credit cards, which is not really convenient for international visitors. With some website you will still have to pay a station fee of RM2 at the bus station, with others not. At TBS (KL) it is easy to book a bus directly at the station. Often RM0.40 are charged as insurance by stations, tell them if you don't want that. The common booking websites are: * {{listing | name=Bus Online Ticket |alt=| url=https://www.busonlineticket.com/ | email=sales@busonlineticket.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+603 2027 4626 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-05-26| content= }} * {{listing | name=redBus | alt= | url=http://www.redbus.sg | email=support@redbus.sg | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+65-31582888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Easybook | alt=Easibook | url=http://www.easybook.com | email=enquiry@easybook.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 332 7718 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-03-27 | content= }} === By train === [[File:Padang Besar 4.jpg|thumb|KTM ETS train at Padang Besar station]] State operator [http://www.ktmb.com.my '''Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad''' (KTMB)] provides relatively inexpensive and generally reliable services around [[Peninsular Malaysia]] (but not [[Sabah]]/[[Sarawak]] in [[Borneo]]). The main western line connects [[Butterworth]] (Penang), [[Ipoh]], [[Kuala Lumpur]] and [[Johor Bahru]], while the eastern line branches off at [[Gemas]] and runs through [[Gua Musang]] and the [[Taman Negara]] to [[Tumpat]], near the Thai border and the [[Perhentian Islands]]. Be sure to hold on to your ticket, as it will be checked at your destination station before you are allowed to leave. The pride of KTMB's fleet is the '''ETS''' (Electric Train Service) from the Thai border at [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] to [[Segamat]], with a branch line to [[Butterworth]] (with transfers to/from [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] by ferry), running clean, punctual and modern air-conditioned trains daily at up to 140&nbsp;km/h. ETS trains are classified as '''Express''', '''Platinum''', '''Gold''' and '''Silver''', with the former the fastest and stopping only at major stations, and the latter being the slowest and stopping at every station. Seating in all four is the same but faster trains are slightly more expensive, with the fares for the popular KL-Ipoh route clocking in at 46 RM (Express) to 31 RM (Silver). Platinum trains also offer a '''business class''' cabin at extra cost, with wider seats and more leg room, and access to a business class lounge if you are departing from KL Sentral. There is no longer ETS service from Padang Besar to Butterworth; the route is served by '''KTM Komuter''' trains instead, which while also electrified and air-conditioned are designed for commuter rather than long-distance travel. The rest of the network, though, is mostly single-track, with slow diesel locos and all too frequent breakdowns and delays. In May, 2016 KTMB ceased all sleeper trains on the western line, following the electrification of the track to Gemas. An air conditioned 2nd class only, diesel shuttle train now connects the section from Gemas to JB Sentral. Electrification and double tracking of the Gemas to [[Johor Bahru]] section is expected to be completed by 2025. The '''[[Jungle Railway]]''' is the apt description for the eastern line between [[Tumpat]] (close to the Thai border) and [[Gemas]], including stops at [[Gua Musang]], [[Kuala Lipis]], [[Jerantut]] (for [[Taman Negara]]) and Wakaf Bahru (for [[Kota Bharu]] and the [[Perhentian Islands]]). The daytime services on this line use clean, modern and air-conditioned "Class 61" diesel multiple units (DMUs), which have replaced the old non-air-conditioned locomotive-hauled trains, though the seats do not recline, which can make them rather uncomfortable for longer journeys. No daytime services run along the entire line, so you will need to change trains at Kuala Lipis to travel all the way between Gemas and Tumpat. The eastern line also has one night express train (for which reservations are possible and recommended) going in each direction between Johor Bahru and Tumpat. These use older locomotive-hauled trainsets, which have air-con seats and '''Superior Night''' (ADNS) sleeper cars, which have upper and lower berths along each side, each bunk having a solid partition at each end and a side curtain for privacy. The carriages shake and rattle quite a bit but are comfortable and clean, though the toilets may come across as a little grimy. These trains have windows for both top and bottom bunks, unlike on Thai sleeper trains. A third line, known as the '''[https://www.mrl.com.my/en/ East Coast Rail Link]''' is under construction between [[Port Klang]] and [[Kota Bharu]], with plans for it to pass through [[Kuantan]] and [[Kuala Terengganu]] along the way. It is scheduled to be completed in 2027. Tickets can be booked and even printed online at KTMB's site. Enquiries and reservations can be made by phone at KTMB's call centres, {{Phone|+60 3 2267-1200}} (Malaysia) or, {{Phone|+65 6222-5165}} (Singapore). In East Malaysia, the only railway line is run by [https://railway.sabah.gov.my/ '''Jabatan Kereta Api Negeri Sabah''' (JKNS)]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Web-site in Malay only), running from Tanjung Aru near [[Kota Kinabalu]] to the town of [[Tenom]]. The '''[https://www.belmond.com/trains/asia/eastern-and-oriental-express/ Eastern & Oriental Express]''' was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and as of May 2025 only conducts luxury excursions within Malaysia. === By car === [[File:Malaysia Expressway Network.svg|thumb|A map of Malaysia's expressways (all are in Peninsular Malaysia; none are in Sabah or Sarawak), with dotted lines indicating proposed ones that have yet to be built]] {{main|Driving in Malaysia}} Malaysia has an excellent highway network with over {{km|2000}} of expressways, culminating in the '''North-South Expressway''' (''Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan'') along the West Coast from [[Johor Bahru]] at the border with [[Singapore]] all the way to [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]] in [[Kedah]] at the border with [[Thailand]]. There is also the '''East Coast Expressway''' (''Lebuhraya Pantai Timur''), crossing Peninsular Malaysia coast-to-coast from [[Kuala Lumpur]] to [[Kuantan]] before heading up north towards [[Kuala Terengganu]]. Petrol is slightly cheaper than market prices at RM1.90/litre (Ron 95) (in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak). Tolls are payable on expressways, but these are priced at varying degrees, ranging from expensive to reasonable: driving the length of the country {{km|734}} from the Thai border to Singapore costs RM108. While you can drive from Singapore to Thailand within a day on the West Coast, the highway system is considerably less developed on the East Coast, and even less so in Sabah and Sarawak, so be sure to factor in additional travel time if travelling in those areas. Toll prices for highways and causeways inside major cities, especially Kuala Lumpur, are priced exorbitantly, ranging from RM4 to RM7 for each exit. For those thinking of using GPS (Garmin, Papago, Galactio and Mio-Polnav), the Malaysia maps can be downloaded for free from http://www.malfreemaps.com/index.php{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} Garmin user lucky enough to have another choice from http://www.malsingmaps.com/portal/. Both party maps is contributed by the amazing non-profit group of people who share a common passion to make a GPS maps of Malaysia. While driving quality and habits in Malaysia are better than in most of the rest of Southeast Asia, they are not necessarily great, especially compared to what visitors from most Western countries are used to at home. Traffic in Malaysia drives on the left, a legacy left by the British. Beware reckless motorcyclists, especially at night, and especially if you are a pedestrian: locals typically disregard a red light for left turns, putting pedestrians at risk. As a motorist, at traffic lights, motorcyclists will accumulate in front of you — let them drive away first to avoid accidents. Care is needed when driving in larger cities, such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and George Town. Problems include apparently suicidal motorcyclists, congested traffic lanes throughout the day, and bewildering roads especially in the older parts of the city where planning was virtually nonexistent by the then British colonial occupiers. Out of town, however, cars and motorcycles are the best and sometimes the only way to explore the country. Some of the more rural areas have motorcycles and scooters to rent for as little as RM25/day, a great way to explore the local area or larger islands like Langkawi. As expected, most rental agencies will require a valid driving licence to be presented upon rental. Fuel levels are often compared before and after rental, and the vehicle is also checked for damage, so ensure everything is documented, and request a refund of any excess fuel if possible. The bigger car rental companies like Hertz and Avis may also require you to have a valid credit card where a deposit will be authorised but not deducted from (unless there is damage to the car). === By taxi === [[File:Taxi in Penang 02.JPG|thumb|Taxi in Penang]] Taxis are available in all cities and larger towns, although in smaller places you may have to call one (ask any shopkeeper or consult the yellow-pages). You will generally need to negotiate the fare in advance, although prepaid coupon taxis are usually available at airports. RM5 should suffice for a short cross-town trip, while RM100 is enough to hire a taxi for a full day. [[File:KotaKinabalu Sabah Taxi-waiting-for-passengers-01.jpg|thumb|Taxis in [[Kota Kinabalu]], [[Sabah]]]] Many taxis will refuse to use the meter, even though there is an official rate. Most taxis now have a sticker on the rear door informing tourists that haggling is prohibited. Taxi drivers, sensing that you are a tourist, may drive around and take a very long route to reach your destination. If you need a taxi late at night, it is best to use the dial-a-taxi service as there have been incidents in which taxis flagged down during those hours have been fake/unregistered. An unregistered taxi driver might rob or assault you with the help of other assailants. You are also more likely to get a metered taxi by flagging one at a street than at a taxi stand. It is advisable to study maps and compare fares on the internet before visiting the country. Knowing distances between places is helpful when negotiating with taxi drivers. They won't try to fool even a foreigner who demonstrates clearly that he knows the distance from point A to point B is 50 km and not 150 km. Do not accept the first rates for inter-city travels by car offered by hotels, as these could be as much as double normal prices. In this case, negotiate with a taxi driver directly for a better and fair price (for example, a hotel near Balok Beach, not very far from Kuantan, asked 800 RM for a ride to Johor Bahru, while a negotiated price with a taxi driver who could be found in downtown Kuantan came down to a normal 400 RM). But for all this you need to know the exact distance and if possible even the exact itinerary between your departure and arrival point. In Kuala Lumpur, the budget taxis are usually coloured Red and White (City taxi – these taxis are not allowed to travel out of the city e.g. to another state) or Yellow. Taxis are usually small saloons such as Proton Wira and run on NGV (Natural Gas). The Blue taxis are larger saloons or MPVs (Multi Purpose Vehicles) and more luxurious. These cost typically 25–30% more than the budget taxis & are normally available at taxi stands all over Kuala Lumpur including the major malls & hotels. The Red & White taxis can be hailed off the roads and are metered. Ensure that the taxi driver is a Malaysian (all drivers must have a taxi permit &amp; license with their photo on it) before you board, as unscrupulous taxi owners have been known to rent their taxi out to unlicensed stand-ins. All legal taxi drivers must be Malaysian citizens or permanent residents as the Malaysian government does not issue work visas to foreigners to drive taxis. Additionally, beware of unlicensed taxis ''(taxi sapu)'' at the airports. They can literally take you for a ride. There will be touts at the airports offering travellers their taxi service, even pretending to be legitimate. As unbelievable as it may sound, some have been known to rob first time visitors hundreds of ringgit for a single trip into the city, charging 100 times more than the correct fare. At the airports '''always''' get your taxi from the authorised operators' booths set up in the airport itself & '''never''' from anyone that solicits directly. They will always claim to be legitimate but are rarely licensed and may be unsafe. The taxi operator booths can provide you with receipts. Another tip is to book your taxis in advance. All good hotels' concierge will be able to assist you with this. If travelling in an unlicensed taxi you may not be covered by your travel insurance should that taxi be involved in a mishap. === By ride-hailing === The most popular ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/my/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former Southeast Asian operations. You can pay with your card (via the Grab app) or cash; most drivers have change. Rides within KL seldomly cost more than RM15. If it seems overly expensive at a certain moment, walk a little and check again — often near major points of interests ride are more expensive. ===By bicycle=== Although Malaysia's cycling infrastructure is not well developed, travelling by bicycle is a good way to enjoy the scenery while exploring rural Malaysia. Long-distance bicycle tours are sometimes organised by enthusiast groups, including some cross-border tours from Singapore. When cycling on the road, you are required to ride in a single file, and riding in the shoulder is forbidden. Cycling on pedestrian footpaths is also forbidden except for toy bicycles ridden by children under the age of 12. All bicycles must be equipped with a bell and independently-operated brakes on each wheel. A white front light and a red rear light are mandatory when cycling at night. It is legal cycle on any road unless there is a sign prohibiting it. While there is no specific law against cycling on expressways, you are highly advised not to do so for safety reasons; all PLUS expressways (including the Malaysian side of the Second Link from Singapore) and the LATAR expressway linking Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Selangor have signs prohibiting cyclists. ===By boat=== Ferries link the mainlands of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia with several outlying islands. The main ferries foreigners are likely to use are from [[Butterworth]] (for connections with the railway network) to [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] on Penang island, as well as ferries to Kuah in [[Langkawi]] from [[Kuala Perlis]] and [[Kuala Kedah]]. Direct ferries between Penang and Langkawi no longer operate. On the East Coast, ferries operate to the popular dive resort islands, including from [[Mersing]] to [[Pulau Tioman]], from [[Merang]] to [[Pulau Redang]] and from [[Kuala Besut]] to the [[Perhentian Islands]]. There are no ferries between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. ==See== [[File:Penang Malaysia Wat-Chaiya-Mangkalaram-Temple-01.jpg|thumb|Wat Chaiyamangkalaram in [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], [[Penang]]]] [[File:Cameron Highlands Tea Plantation 2012.JPG|thumb|Tea plantations in the [[Cameron Highlands]], [[Pahang]]]] Malaysia is a fascinating country with many faces. It's multi-ethnic and multi-cultural, and its attractions vary from the iconic Petronas Towers in bustling '''[[Kuala Lumpur]]''' to perfect sandy beaches lined with palm trees and dense jungles with orangutangs and tigers. There are various impressive '''national parks'''. Expeditions range from those where you hardly lose sight of the hotel to those where you are fully immersed in the jungle for weeks, with only the guide and yourself. To spot a tiger or wild elephant in its natural habitat you might have to spend more than a few days in the wild, but you'll have no trouble seeing smaller wildlife. '''[[Bako National Park]]''' is the oldest national park in Malaysia and one of the best places to see proboscis monkeys. The vast jungles of '''[[Taman Negara]]''' have become a popular destination for [[ecotourism|ecotourists]], just like the remote but gorgeous '''[[Gunung Mulu National Park]]''', a World Heritage Site famous for its limestone karst formations, stone pinnacles and huge caves. To escape from the muggy tropics, do as the English did and head up to the cool tea plantations of the '''[[Cameron Highlands]]''', the quaint Tudor-style village on '''[[Fraser's Hill]]''' or climb '''[[Mount Kinabalu]]''' in [[Sabah]]. For many people, Malaysia brings pictures of pristine beaches with great diving opportunities to mind - and for good reason. '''[[Sipadan]]''' off the coast of Sabah, and the beautiful '''[[Perhentian]]''' Islands are among the best (and most popular) places. Coastlines in the less industrialized parts of the country, in general, are well worth driving through for their natural beauty and relaxing seaside kampung (villages). Follow the crowds to the postcard perfect sands of the '''[[Langkawi]]''' Islands, where you can have a cocktail on the beach and stay in one of the many resorts. If you're most interested in taking the pulse of a city, don't miss '''[[Kuala Lumpur]]''''s crazy quilt ultra-modern skyline, including the famous Petronas Twin Towers. [[George Town (Malaysia)|'''George Town''']], the capital city of [[Penang]], is known for its great food, colonial architecture, and relatively long-standing and institutionalized Chinese, Peranakan and Indian communities, who share the city with ethnic Malays, Thais and Eurasians. '''[[Ipoh]]''' is a good choice if you enjoy a somewhat slower paced city that features elegant colonial-era buildings from about 100 years ago, and '''[[Malacca]]''' is for those who want to trace the colonial and imperial history of Malaysia several hundred years further back. For a completely different experience, head to '''[[Kota Bharu]]''' to discover a unique conservative Islamic regional culture influenced by [[Thailand]], only a few kilometres away, or visit the diverse cities of [[East Malaysia]], like '''[[Kuching]]''' and '''[[Kota Kinabalu]]'''. Especially when travelling with children, consider visiting one of the country's excellent zoos, such as [[Taiping]] Zoo, [[Kuala Lumpur]]'s Zoo Negara, [[Johor Bahru|Johor]] Zoo and [[Malacca]]'s Zoo. == Do == [[File:Perhentian Beach (106319844).jpg|thumb|A beach on [[Perhentian Islands]], [[Terengganu]].]] [[File:Amphiprion clarkii sipadan.jpg|thumb|A first glance at Sipadan's colourful underwater life]] Malaysia has excellent '''[[scuba diving]]'''. Some of the more popular spots are the islands off the [[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] of peninsular Malaysia ([[Perhentian]], [[Redang]], [[Tioman]] and many more), although the dive season is limited to April to September. However, the most famous dive site &mdash; often ranked among the best in the world &mdash; is [[Sipadan]], off the easternmost tip of [[Sabah|Malaysian Borneo]]. There are many other less well known sites, like [[Layang Layang]]. ===Whitewater Rafting=== You can find tame Grade I to incredibly difficult and dangerous Grade V rapids in Malaysia's many national parks: * Jeram Besu - Grade I-III - [[Pahang]] * [[Telom River]] - Grade V - [[Pahang]] * Kuala Perahu - [[Pahang]] * Lipis River - [[Pahang]] * Anak Jelai River - Grade I-II - [[Pahang]] * Tembeling River - Grade I-II - [[Pahang]] * Sedim River - Grade III-IV - [[Kedah]] * Sungai Selangor - Grade I-III - [[Selangor]] * Kiulu River - Grade II - [[Sabah]] * Padas River - Grade III-IV - Sabah * Sungai Itek (Kampar River) - Grade I-III - [[Perak]] * Sungkai River - Grade I-II - Perak * Singoh River - Grade V - Perak * Endau River - [[Johor]] * Nenggiri River - Grade I-III [[Kelantan]] * [[Kuala Kubu Bahru]], [[Selangor]] ===[[Martial arts]]=== [[File:Men Pencak Silat Match Malaysia vs Vietnam.jpg|thumb|A silat match taking place.]] Malaysia is home to a uniquely Malay style of martial arts known as '''silat'''. Silat tournaments are held between different schools in the country, and the Southeast Asian Games is the premier international tournament in silat, with competitors from the neighbouring countries as well. There is also an equally traditional stylised dance version of silat called ''silat gayung'', which is quite worth seeing if you have the chance. In addition, there are also many kung fu masters among the ethnic Chinese community, and Malaysia is consistently one of the top performers in international wushu competitions. ===Music=== Malaysia is home to a uniquely Malay form of singing called ''dikir barat''. Dikir barat is typically sung by a choir, though there may also be solo parts, and is also either sung ''a capella'', or accompanied only by percussion instruments. Dikir barat competitions are fairly popular among the Malay community, and are frequently broadcast on Malaysian national television. == Buy == ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malaysian ringgit | currencyCode=RM | date=January 2025 | USD=4.3 | EUR=5.0 | GBP=5.8 | SGD=3.3 | AUD=2.8 | IDR=2.6 | THB=1.3 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/myr-malaysian-ringgit XE.com] }} The Malaysian currency is the '''Malaysian ringgit''', abbreviated as '''RM''' (ISO code: '''MYR'''). It is divided into 100 '''sen''' (cents). The ringgit used to be referred to as the dollar and you may see the '$' symbol on older notes. Coins in Malaysia are issued in denominations of RM0.05 (silver), RM0.10 (silver), RM0.20 (silver or gold), and RM0.50 (silver or gold). Banknotes in Malaysia are issued in denominations of RM1 (blue), RM5 (green), RM10 (red), RM20 (orange), RM50 (green/blue) and RM100 (purple). 5 sen coins are mainly given as change in large establishments or supermarkets whereas peddlers and street vendors might be reluctant to accept them. The Singapore and Brunei dollars are also known as ''ringgit'' in Malay, so when near border areas you might want to check to be sure which currency they are quoting the price in. ====ATMs==== Widely available in cities, but do stock up on cash if heading out into the smaller islands or the jungle. Many ATMs, especially those of local banks, won't charge a fee for withdrawals in Malaysia (e.g. CIMB) — one of the upsides of Islamic banking. However, in 2024, Euronet acquired MEPS and is now the largest non-bank ATM provider in Malaysia. They are well known for their high fees and bad customer experience. Try to avoid them! Many ATMs (like Euronet) will offer to do the currency conversion for you, which is disadvantageous (often involving a markup of 4–14%) — this is how they make money. So, '''always decline [[Money#Dynamic currency conversion|currency conversion]]''' to your home currency! Due to fraud risk, many Malaysian ATMs do not allow you to withdraw using foreign debit cards. If your card is rejected, try another ATM. If you call your bank or credit company, they are often not aware of what happened because the transaction is declined by the Malaysia bank. Make sure to bring cash or other forms of money in case your debit card is rejected. ====Credit cards==== They can be used in most shops, restaurants and hotels, although '''skimming''' can be a problem in dodgier outlets. For credit card usage, make sure your credit/debit card is chip based as most merchants no longer accept '''magnetic strips''' based cards. ====Currency exchange==== Counters can easily found in major shopping areas and have a better exchange rate than in banks and airports. Be sure to say the amount you wish to exchange and ask for the 'best quote' as rates displayed on the board are often negotiable, especially for larger amounts. Large foreign banknotes, such as €500, are almost impossible to change for a good rate in some areas, especially in Sabah or Sarawak, where the banks offer a much lower rate comparing to the one you'd get if changing a banknote of smaller amount. Some money exchangers in Kota Kinabalu or Kuching even may refuse your business if you have large foreign banknotes, so the best option is to bring smaller notes unless you are willing to shop around. '''Foreign currencies''' are ''not'' generally accepted as is. The major exception is Singapore dollars, which may be accepted in Johor Bahru, but at a steep penalty. They're also accepted by KTMB and toll roads, but at an incredibly unfavorable 1:1 exchange rate, an anomaly dating back to the 1970s when the ringgit was interchangeable with the Singapore dollar. ====Banking==== Banks in Malaysia do handle international transactions. These ranges from a nominal fee if you are an account holder to a slightly more expensive amount if you are only walking in to use a certain service. British banks HSBC and Standard Chartered, and Singaporean bank UOB have a presence in Malaysia. Citibank has exited the Malaysian retail banking market, with all its retail banking assets having been taken over by UOB. Local banking giants are Maybank, RHB, Hong Leong Bank, Public Bank & CIMB Bank, & they are a very good alternative to the earlier mentioned banks, especially in terms of pricing, local knowledge & presence as well as international services available e.g. money transfers. For any enquiries and transactions, get a number, sit down and wait for your turn to be served. (There is no need to queue while you wait in air-conditioned comfort!) Banks are open Monday-Friday from 9:30AM-4PM and selected banks are open Saturday 9:30AM–11:30AM except on the first and third Saturdays of each month. In the states of Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, they are open Sunday to Thursday 9:30AM–4PM. === Costs === Most Western visitors will find Malaysia quite cheap, although it is noticeably more expensive than neighbouring Indonesia. You can live in hostel dorms and feast on hawker food for less than RM50 per day, but you'll wish to double this for comfort, particularly if travelling in more expensive East Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is also generally more expensive than the rest of the country. At the other end of the spectrum, luxury hotels and air fares are also quite affordable, with even the fanciest 5-star hotels costing less than RM400/night. [[File:Bukit bintang from kl monorail 2009.jpg|thumb|''Bukit Bintang'', a popular shopping area in [[Kuala Lumpur]]]] ===Tipping=== Tipping is not customary in Malaysia. A service charge of 10% is included in total bill in most air conditioned restaurants, but otherwise, you are not expected to pay anything more than what is stated in the bill. Most expensive restaurants, bars and hotels may indicate prices in the form of RM19++ ("plus plus"), meaning that sales tax (6%) and service charge (10%) will be added to the bill. Hotel tax of 5% may also be added to this. === Shopping === [[Kuala Lumpur]] is a shopping mecca for clothes, electronics, watches and computer goods, with very competitive prices by any standard. Local Malaysian brands include Royal Selangor pewter (thanks to KL's tin-mining heritage), British India and Eilanto. Traditional Malaysian fabrics (''batik'') are a popular souvenir. The cheapest place to easily buy ethnic souvenirs (especially wood-based) is in [[Kuching]], East Malaysia, and the most expensive place is in the major, posh [[Kuala Lumpur]] shopping centres. In fact, Malaysia has over 1000 shopping complexes, but many, especially outside the capital, have low occupancy due to oversupply. In general shops are open 10:30AM–9:30/10PM in the large cities. They open and close for business earlier in the smaller towns and rural areas. Some shops may also be closed on certain days, such as in [[Malacca]] where many shops and restaurants close on Tuesday. For great second-hand shopping from locals try [https://www.carousell.com.my/ Carousell] or [https://www.mudah.my/ Mudah.my]. If you buy too much while shopping in Malaysia (which is quite easy to do), surface postage rates are very reasonable. Excess luggage at the airport is still high but not as high as in many other countries. Check first with your airline. == Eat == [[File:Nasi Lemak dengan Chili Nasi Lemak dan Sotong Pedas, di Penang Summer Restaurant.jpg|thumb|''Nasi lemak'' coconut rice with ''sotong pedas'' (spicy squid), ''sambal'' chili paste, boiled egg, slices of cucumber, ''ikan bilis'' fried anchovies and peanuts served at a restaurant in Penang]] {{main|Cuisine of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei}} The crossroads of Malay, Chinese and [[Indian cuisine]], Malaysia is an excellent place to eat (''makan'' in Malay). Look out for regional specialities and Nyonya (Peranakan) cuisine, the fusion between Malay and [[Chinese cuisine|Chinese cooking]]. There is even unique Eurasian cooking to be found in the Portuguese Settlement in Malacca, the heartland of the Portuguese Eurasian community. Malaysians are very proud of their cooking and most towns or even villages have their own delicious specialities such as [[Penang]] ''char kway teow'', [[Kajang]] satay, [[Ipoh]] bean sprout chicken, [[Sarawak]] ''laksa'', [[Kelantan]]ese ''nasi dagang'' and [[Sabah]]an ''hinava''. Most eateries rely on word of mouth for advertising and are frequently located in the most inconvenient, out-of-the-way places, so you might want to try asking the locals for their personal recommendations. If you intend to travel around Malaysia trying out the local food, don't be fooled by the names. Sometimes two entirely different dishes from different parts of the country can be known by the same name. For example, ''laksa'' refers to completely different noodle dishes in [[Penang]] and [[Sarawak]]. Generally, you can eat pretty much anywhere in Malaysia. Food outlets are comparatively clean – the only thing you might avoid when you frequent the street or hawker stalls is ice for your drinks, since the blocks of ice used there might not be up to your hygienic standards. In actual restaurants this is not a problem. Also you might want to avoid ordering water from hawker stalls or the ''mamak'' restaurants as you may be served unboiled tap water. Cheaper places often do not display prices; most will charge tourists honestly, but check prices before ordering to make sure. Eating habits run the gamut, but most foods are eaten by '''fork and spoon''': push and cut with the fork in the left hand, and eat with the spoon in the right. As eating is a favourite 'pastime' of Malaysians, the majority are adept at using chopsticks, regardless of background. Noodles and Chinese dishes typically come with these, while Malay and Indian food is traditionally eaten by hand, though a fork and spoon are often used to eat Malay and Indian food in restaurants and can be requested if not provided. If eating by hand, '''always use only your right hand''' to handle the food, as Malays and Indians traditionally use their left hand to handle dirty things. When eating with chopsticks at Chinese restaurants, take note of the usual etiquette and most importantly, ''do not'' stick your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice. This is reminiscent of incense sticks burning at the temple and has connotations of wishing death on those around you. If eating in a group, serving dishes are always shared, but you'll get your own bowl of rice and soup. === Where to eat === [[File:Beaufort Sabah KedaiKopi-01.jpg|thumb|The interior of a kedai kopi near the railway station in [[Beaufort (Sabah)|Beaufort, Sabah]]]] The cheapest places to eat are '''hawker stalls''' and '''coffeeshops''', known as ''kedai kopi'' in Malay or ''kopitiam'' in Hokkien. These shops sell, besides coffee, many other types of food and drinks. Particularly popular and tasty are '''''mamak''''' stalls, run by Indian Muslims and serving up localized Indian fare like ''roti canai''. Most hawker stalls stay open till late and some even operate on shifts so you can find the same stall offering different food at different points throughout the day. You can also do take away from any stall: just ask for ''bungkus'' (Malay) or ''ta pao'' (Cantonese). A hawker meal will rarely cost you over RM5. Hygiene standards in Malaysia are generally good by Southeast Asian standards, and much better than in the Indian subcontinent. Just be observant, and generally speaking, if a stall is patronised by locals, it should be safe to eat there. One step up on the scale is the '''''kedai makanan''''' or the more Western-style '''''restoran'''''. A type to look out for is the '''''nasi kandar''''' restaurant, which originated in [[Penang]] but now can be found in virtually every Malaysian city, with a wide variety of Indian-style curries and toppings to ladle on top of your rice. The Malay answer to nasi kandar is known as '''''nasi campur''''', of which a subtype is '''''nasi padang''''', originating among the Minangkabau people from [[Padang]] in what is today [[Indonesia]]. The Chinese equivalent is known as '''economy rice''' or '''mixed rice''', or by its Cantonese name '''''chap fan''''' (雜飯). However, unlike nasi kandar or nasi campur, Chinese-style economy rice is typically ''not'' halal. '''Seafood restaurants''' (''makanan laut'') are comparatively pricey but still an excellent value by most standards; do check prices before ordering though. Local prawns are gigantic, Chinese-style steamed fish is a treat and crab served with sticky chilli sauce is particularly popular. Last but not least, some less adventurous options. '''Food courts''' in shopping malls are a good way to sample local delicacies in air-conditioned comfort, paying only a small premium over hawker prices. And yes, you can also find McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut and the usual suspects plus imitators throughout Malaysia. === Dietary restrictions === [[File:Su Xin Vegetarian Restaurant.jpg|thumb|A vegetarian restaurant in [[Johor Bahru]], [[Johor]].]] Being a Muslim-majority country, finding '''halal''' food in Malaysia is easy, but most Chinese stalls and restaurants, as well as those serving some indigenous ethnic groups of East Malaysia such as the Iban and Kadazan, are ''not'' halal. Ask if in doubt. Meals at Malay restaurants and Western fast food restaurants like McDonald's, Kentucky Fried Chicken and Pizza Hut are halal. Restaurants at major hotels are not certified 'Halal' as they serve alcohol as well, but with the exception of Chinese restaurants, they generally don't serve pork. Local Muslims will eat at Western, Chinese and Indian eateries if there is a halal sign on the walls. Most of the restaurants tend to display their halal certification or halal sign on their places. Halal certification is awarded and enforced by a government agency, usually JAKIM. There are ''no'' '''kosher''' establishments in Malaysia, so kosher-observant Jewish visitors will have to bring their own food with them and supplement it with fresh fruit. Kosher grocery stores and restaurants can be found in neighbouring [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], the [[Philippines]] and [[Vietnam]], so you might want to stop in one of those countries to stock up before entering Malaysia. '''Vegetarianism''' is well-understood by the Chinese and Indian communities (not so by the Muslim Malays and other indigenous minorities) and many restaurants or hawker stalls will be able to come up with something on request (DO state "no meat, no fish, no seafood – ASK for vegetables and/or eggs ONLY"), but don't rely entirely on menu descriptions: innocuous-seeming dishes like "fried vegetables" etc. will often contain shrimp paste (''belacan'', commonly used in Malay and spicy Chinese dishes), fish sauce, etc. or even pork bits or lard in non-halal Chinese restaurants, so if in doubt, ask. Indian restaurants usually have very good vegetarian selections – the ''roti'' (Indian flat bread – any kind; including roti canai, roti naan, capati, tosai) are good choices, and DO insist on being given ''dhal'' (lentil-based curry dip) lest you'll be given a fish curry dip. Purely vegetarian Chinese Buddhist restaurants (often serving remarkable "mock meat" products made from tofu, gluten etc.) are quite easy to find in big urban areas with a large ethnic Chinese population. Getting vegetarian food in rural areas, especially those near fishing villages or in Muslim/Malay-dominated regions, may be more difficult, but learning some basic Malay vocabulary will go a long way to help you get your message across – see the [[Malay phrasebook#Eating|Malay phrasebook]]. Upmarket Western restaurants, such as those serving Italian cuisine, will normally have some good vegetarian options. Be careful about Chinese bakery items too, as many seemingly vegetarian items use pork lard to make the pastry. '''Veganism''' is rarely understood in this part of the world and is largely mistaken as a synonym for vegetarianism. The safest bet for a vegan is to patronize a Chinese Buddhist vegetarian restaurant, since Chinese cuisine traditionally does not use dairy products. However, check to ensure that your dish does not contain eggs. And if you're still feeling uneasy or unsure, do not hesitate to ask. == Drink == [[File:Cheng Ho Tea House.JPG|thumb|A tea house in [[Melaka]].]] Malaysians like both coffee (''kopi'') and tea (''teh''), especially the national drink ''teh tarik'' ("pulled tea"), made by the ''Mamak'' (Indian Muslim) community, and named after the theatrical 'pulling' motion used to pour it. By default, both will be served hot, sweet and with a dose of condensed milk; request ''teh o'' to skip the milk, ''teh ais'' for iced milky tea, or ''teh o ais'' for iced milkless tea. Drinking with no sugar at all is considered odd, but asking for ''kurang manis'' (less sugar) will ease the pain. However, if you really want no sugar at all, you can try asking for "teh kosong." Malaysia produces its own tea, but little of it is exported except to neighbouring Singapore due to high domestic demand, so be sure to try some locally-grown tea when you are here. BOH, with its plantations in [[Cameron Highlands]], is Malaysia's largest tea brand. Another peculiar local favourite is the kopi tongkat ali ginseng, a mixture of coffee, a local aphrodisiacal root, and ginseng served with condensed milk that's touted as an alternative to viagra and red bull combined and is usually advertised with a picture of a bed broken in half. Other popular nonalcoholic options include the chocolate drink Milo and lime juice (''limau''). Freshly made fruit juices are also widely available, as well as a wide range of canned drinks (some familiar to many foreigners, some less so). There is also a local drink comprised of white soya milk and black grass jelly (''cincau'') called ''soya cincau''. It can be ordered at most hawker centres and local roadside cafes (''kedai kopi/kopitiam''). === Alcohol === [[Image:Gawai.JPG|thumb|Tuak is widely consumed during Gawai Dayak festival and Christmas Day.]] Although alcohol consumption is illegal for Muslims in Malaysia, licensed venues are permitted to sell alcohol to non-Muslims. With the exception of tax-free islands ([[Labuan]], [[Langkawi]], [[Tioman]]) and duty free shops (for example in [[Johor Bahru]]), prices are comparatively high, with a can of beer costing RM7.50 or more even in supermarkets or 7-Eleven stores. However, in East Malaysia, smuggled liquors are widely available. The legal drinking age in Malaysia is 21. In East Malaysia, particularly [[Sarawak]], ''tuak'' is a common affair for any celebration or festivals such as Gawai Dayak and Christmas Day. ''Tuak'' is made from fermented rice to which sugar, honey or other various condiments are sometimes added. It is normally served lukewarm without ice. Visitors can choose from 'strong' flavour of tuak (which is normally fermented for years), or 'mild' flavour (which is sometimes prepared only a week or even a day before). In [[Sabah]], cheap liquors are very widely available at most supermarkets and mini markets in the state. Other alcoholic drinks such as beer and whisky are also widely available. On the other hand, ''tuak'' in [[Kelantan]] also can be considered as a liquor since that it contains a trace amount of fermented ''nipah'' or sap juice. The alcohol content in Kelantan ''tuak'' can easily reach 50% after 3 days from the time it was extracted. [[File:Tapai peuyeum Pasar Baru.JPG|thumb|Cassava tapai is shown in plastic bags in the foreground]] ''Tapai'' consists of cassava (less often, rice) that is fermented and eaten as a food (though the liquid in the bottom can also be drunk). As it is commonly eaten during Hari Raya Puasa, the major Muslim holiday celebrating the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, it is interesting that Islamic legal authorities associated with the Islamist opposition Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) have given Muslims a special dispensation from laws against consuming alcohol, in the case of tapai. ===Water safety=== There are differences of opinion on the safety of Malaysian tap water. See [[#Stay healthy]]. == Sleep == Malaysia has ample affordable accommodations in all of its cities and towns, with full range from budget until luxury ones. Service charges and taxes are not yet part of the advertised price so be sure to add 16% to the listed price. Hotels and hostels are required to charge a '''tourism tax''' on international visitors: RM10 per room per night, which may not be included in the advertised rates. ===Budget=== Budget hotels and youth [[hostels]] are available in most cities and around most tourist destinations. As with most budget accommodations, some are more reliable than others. Be cautious when selecting budget accommodation to avoid places that house illegal vice activities. Larger cities will have YMCAs that are safe bets. Another noticeable budget hotel chain is [http://www.tunehotels.com Tune Hotels,] an affiliate of the budget airline, Air Asia. They are expanding and have hotels at numerous locations throughout the country ===Mid-range=== Mid-range hotels are readily available just about anywhere. Prices of 3–4 star hotels are upwards from RM100 and are generally reliable in terms of quality. ===Splurge=== Malaysia is home to some of the most affordable 5-star hotels, service apartments, and resorts in the world. They are found in larger cities like Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching and also in some coastal towns and areas. Also, almost all islands have upscale resorts and spas for the wealthy traveller. == Learn == Malaysia's universities are generally well-regarded and draw exchange students from near and far. Among Malaysia's universities, the undisputed most prestigious one is the '''[https://www.um.edu.my University of Malaya]''' (UM), located in Kuala Lumpur. In addition, several foreign universities have established campuses in Malaysia. == Work == Obtaining a working visa takes some effort. The easiest way to work in Malaysia is probably to work for an overseas company and get posted to Malaysia. The [https://www.imi.gov.my/ Malaysian Immigration Department website] has basic advice. In order to obtain a work permit, you need to have an offer from your future employer who will have to do the paperwork for you. It's very expensive and comes with many restrictions if a company wants to hire a foreigner and as such next to impossible. As stated above, a feasible way is to get transferred. Finding a job is otherwise unlikely unless you are married to a local and even then it remains difficult. Working days in [[Kelantan]], [[Terengganu]] and [[Kedah]] are from Sunday to Thursday, with Fridays and Saturdays being weekend holidays, similar to most Middle Eastern countries in alignment with Friday prayers of Muslims. The other states observe the normal weekend in the rest of the world. [[Johor]] adopts the Friday-Saturday weekend, though businesses may still stick to the normal week cycle to accommodate Singaporean practices. == Stay safe == {{infobox|Emergency numbers|Central emergency number '''999'''}} Though the crime rate is higher than in neighbouring Singapore, Malaysia is generally a safe country for visitors. Crimes towards tourists are usually restricted to bag-snatching, pickpocketing and petty theft. It is important to keep a close eye on valuable items. Theft is more common in crowded places, such as markets and on public transport. Generally, if you avoid deserted areas, get back to your hotel before midnight and use your common sense, you're unlikely to be assaulted. Homosexuality is a crime and gay bars may be raided by police; gay and lesbian tourists should be discreet and avoid any public displays of affection. ===Crime=== {{Cautionbox|Malaysia treats '''drug offences''' severely. With limited exceptions, the '''death penalty''' is possible for those convicted of trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting more than 15 g of heroin, 30 g of morphine, 30 g of cocaine, 500 g of cannabis, 200 g of cannabis resin and 1.2 kg of opium, and possession of these quantities is all that is needed for you to be convicted. If the death penalty is not imposed, lengthy imprisonment and mandatory whipping is still expected. Even if a person suspected of drug trafficking is acquitted, Malaysian authorities can still detain that person without any charges for 2 years. Unauthorised consumption can result in up to 10 years' jail, or a heavy fine, or both. You can be charged for unauthorised consumption as long as traces of illicit drugs are found in your system, even if you can prove that they were consumed outside the country and you can be charged for trafficking as long as drugs are found in bags that are in your possession or in your room, even if they aren't yours and regardless of whether you're aware of them - therefore be vigilant of your possessions.|lastedit=permanent}} There have been some reports of [[pickpockets]] and snatch-and-run thieves in some of the major cities like [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Petaling Jaya]] and [[Johor Bahru]]. As a general precaution, never carry your bags on the side facing the road and always walk facing the oncoming traffic. Additionally, walk a few feet deeper away from the roads. Women travellers should take extra precautions at night. Johor Bahru is known for having a relatively higher crime rate compared to the rest of Malaysia, and armed robberies and snatch thefts could happen at night in run-down areas of the city. Travel documents and valuables are best deposited in a hotel safe. In Malaysia, some crimes are punished with caning, known locally as whipping. Being convicted of rape, vandalism, illegal entry, bribery, overstaying your visa, and certain other crimes could get you caned. '''This is no slap on the wrist!''' Strokes from the thick rattan cane are ''very painful'', will take some time to heal and probably leave you with a permanent scar. Credit card fraud is a growing problem in this country, especially if you order in an on-line store during your stay. Use credit cards only in reputable shops. Look for online reviews but recognise that even these can be astroturfed to provide a higher average review than the company deserves. ===Corruption=== While not as bad as the likes of Thailand, Vietnam or Indonesia, corruption remains a significant issue in Malaysia. Traffic police have been known to pull over motorists to demand bribes of RM100-200; this tends to happen somewhat more often to those driving cars with Singapore licence plates. Nevertheless, there have been some crackdowns on this, and bribery is punishable by up to 20 years in jail. Anyone who tries to bribe public officials may be arrested on the spot and placed in a lock-up overnight to be charged for the offence in the morning. If this happens on a Friday or on eve of public holidays, you will find yourself spending a few nights in the lock-up as the courts are only open Monday to Friday. Do not let this dissuade you from requesting help — generally Malaysian police are helpful to tourists. Customs and immigration officers are comparatively cleaner than other Southeast Asian countries, though there have been isolated cases where tourists are demanded bribes from immigration officials. Do check your passport before driving off when entering by land from the Singapore border though, as immigration officers have been known to "forget" to stamp people in, and you will be subject to fines of several thousand ringgit for illegal entry when you try to leave Malaysia if your passport was not stamped on entry. * {{listing | name=Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) | alt=Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia(SPRM) | url=https://www.sprm.gov.my/ | email=info@sprm.gov.my | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1800-88-6000 | fax=+603-8870-0934 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6741935 | lastedit=2025-03-11 | content=The main anti-corruption agency for Malaysia. A list of MACC branches can be found [https://www.sprm.gov.my/index.php?id=21&page_id=75&articleid=430 here]. }} ===Traffic safety=== When on foot, be careful when crossing the street. Vehicles will often ignore pedestrian (zebra) crossings. In addition, reports of road rage during accidents are still common, so if you are involved in an accident be very careful when negotiating or dial 999 for help. ===Other=== Public demonstrations are uncommon in Malaysia due to police crackdowns. Should one occur it may be dealt with in a heavy-handed manner, so '''avoid them at all costs'''. It is generally not allowed for non-Muslims or non-Sunnis to proselytize. In particular, attempting to persuade Muslims to convert out of their religion is illegal, and if you are caught doing this, you will be expelled from the country or even face criminal responsibilities. ===Natural disasters=== Peninsular Malaysia is largely free from [[earthquakes]] as there are no nearby faultlines, though tremors can occasionally be felt in the upper storeys of tall buildings when a major quake occurs in neighbouring Indonesia. East Malaysia, on the other hand, especially the area around Mount Kinabalu, does experience occasional earthquakes (such as the fatal one occurring in 2015). [[Cyclones|Typhoons]] are also exceedingly rare, though one hit the southern part of [[Johor]] in 2001. However, the Nov-Jan monsoon season often results in flooding due to torrential rains, and landslides are known to occur, most notably on the East Coast. [[Tsunamis]] are a rare occurrence, though Penang and a few islands on the north of the West Coast were hit by the infamous tsunami in 2004. == Stay healthy == There are differences of opinion about whether and to what degree '''[[tap water]]''' is safe to drink. It is treated and monitored, but the condition of the pipes is not always reliable. Therefore, you may want to boil or filter it first just to be on the safe side, as most locals do. You can also buy bottled water, which is very inexpensive. Ice in drinks might be made from tap water, but nowadays, most restaurants and even roadside stalls use the cylindrical variety with a hollow tube down the middle that are mass-produced at ice factories and are safer to consume. Heat exhaustion is rare, but do consume lots of fluids, use a hat and sunscreen and shower often! Peninsular Malaysia is largely [[malaria]]-free, but there is a significant risk in Borneo especially in inland and rural areas. [[Dengue fever]] occurs throughout Malaysia in both urban and rural areas, and can be avoided only by preventing [[mosquito]] bites. The mosquito that transmits dengue feeds throughout the daytime, and is most active at dawn and dusk. If you experience a sudden fever with aches and lethargy, seek medical attention immediately. Aspirin and ibuprofen should not be used until dengue fever has been ruled out. Mosquito repellents (''ubat nyamuk'') are widely available. Be careful with mosquito coils, which can easily start fires: set them on a plate or other non-flammable surface and extinguish them before going to sleep. Haze from burning vegetation in neighbouring Indonesia may come and go without warning from the months of May to August so travellers with respiratory ailments should come prepared. Most public washrooms charge a small fee (generally between RM0.20-RM2.00, usually depending on the standard of the facilities), so keep some loose change to hand. If the condition of the sitting toilets is questionable, use the squatting toilets instead - both are usually available, and some believe that the latter are more hygienic and (if you can get used to them) are just as easy to use as sitting toilets. ===Healthcare=== [[File:Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital.JPG|thumb|Public hospital in [[Kuantan]], [[Pahang]]]] The standard of healthcare in Malaysia is generally high, and Malaysia is rapidly emerging as a popular destination for medical tourism, with treatment costs in general far cheaper than in neighbouring Singapore and Western countries. Almost all Malaysian doctors are able to speak English fluently, while most other medical staff are able to converse in at least basic English. Malaysia has a public and private health care system. Health services are adequate in large cities, with English-speaking doctors. Some staff have been trained abroad. In the private sector in particular, the medical staff is often made up of well-trained professionals. Outside urban areas, access to health services and the quality of care vary. Government healthcare facilities are cheap but good, though they tend to be understaffed and consequently, waiting times are long. Due to the shorter waiting times and sometimes hotel-like levels of comfort, most expatriates and visitors prefer to seek out private medical care. Dental services are readily available and prices are often lower than in western countries. However, root canal treatment is considerably more expensive than in western countries, as it is only performed by dental surgeons and not by ordinary dentists. Mental health services are available at least in the capital. In the rest of the country, they may not be available very much. Pharmacies can be found in larger shopping centres and painkillers are available in almost every shop. Prescription medicines may not be available from pharmacies at any time, but only when a pharmacist is present. He or she may be there for part of the day, usually on weekdays. When visiting a doctor, medicines are often available directly from the doctor's surgery or from the hospital pharmacy. When travelling to Malaysia, you should take out comprehensive travel insurance. Doctors and hospitals usually require payment in advance, especially for foreigners. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Keep all receipts and certificates you receive. You can apply for reimbursement afterwards from your insurance company. Services in the private sector are more expensive than in the public sector. You should check the details on the spot. Be vigilant when using private medical services. Doctors may prescribe expensive treatments, tests and medicines that are unnecessary. This is especially true for tourists. Malaysia's largest private healthcare groups are '''[https://www.parkwaypantai.com Parkway Pantai]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', which operates the well-known Gleaneagles and Pantai hospital chains, and '''[http://www.kpjhealth.com.my KPJ Healthcare]'''. Private medical costs can be high and having [[travel insurance]] is a very good idea. Public hospitals and most private hospitals offer 24-hour on-call medical services. In some Malaysian tourist resorts, you can ask for a doctor at the hotel reception. Pressure chamber treatment is available in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kuantan, Lumut, Ipoh, Sabah and Labuan. There is limited availability of rental equipment at hospitals. In most cases, assistive devices have to be purchased. ===Food=== While in general Malaysian food is not unhealthy, the fact that eateries and cafés add unnecessary amounts of sugar to drinks and snacks can be a problem. Also, the sheer amount of these places will always give you an opportunity to have an unhealthy snack or drink, no matter where you are. Be aware, and for example try to have your drinks without sugar, especially fruit shakes, which should come sweet naturally. == Respect == {{infobox|What's in a name?|*Malaysian '''Malay''' names are usually given name + ''bin'' or ''binti'' (son/daughter) + father's name. ''Mohammed bin Abdullah'' would usually be called Mohammed by his friends, and Mr. Mohammed for business. Sometimes, the person's given name appears after the Mohammed or Abdul (example: ''Mohammed Faizal bin Abdul Nasser'') so, in such a case, he would usually be addressed as Mr. Faizal.<br /> *'''Chinese''' place their family name first, so ''Tan Ah Heng'' is Mr Tan for business and Ah Heng to his friends. Many have Western names, so he may also be known as ''John Tan''.<br> *'''Indian''' names are complex, but the south Indian (Tamil) names usually found in Malaysia have two patterns: either given name + ''a/l'' or ''a/p'' (''anak lelaki'' (son of)/''anak perempuan'' (daughter of)) + father's name, or father's initial + given name. Given names are often long and may be abbreviated, so ''Thirumurugan a/l Govindasamy'' may just be addressed as Thiru by his friends and Mr Thiru for business.<br /> *'''Other ethnic minorities''', such as the Iban and Kadazan have their own naming conventions. The foolproof method, therefore, is to ''ask'' how the person would like to be addressed.}} When entering a home or a place of worship, always take off your shoes (this is often required at hostels too). Also, never eat with your left hand or give a gift with your left hand, and never point with your forefinger (you may use a closed fist with the thumb instead). Do not point with your feet or touch a person's head either. Swastikas are commonly seen in Hindu and Buddhist temples, and are regarded as a religious symbol by these communities. They emphatically do '''not''' represent Nazism or anti-Semitism. ===Politics=== As in many countries, it is best not to criticise the government or the Malaysian royal families as a visitor. You may hear Malaysians criticise their own government, but you do not need to take sides; just listen and feel free to talk about your feelings about your own government. The '''bumiputera''' policy (laws granting ethnic Malays special rights not granted to the other races) is a very polarising and sensitive issue, and best avoided as a conversation topic with Malays. Another sensitive issue to be aware of is Israel: Malaysia is one of several countries that do not recognize Israel, and Malaysian Muslims are ardent in their support for Palestine. In addition, many Malaysians associate Jews in general with Israel or otherwise have prejudices against Jews; however, these feelings do not necessarily extend to individual Jewish people, and violence against Jewish visitors is unlikely. ===Dress=== It is advisable to dress respectfully, particularly in rural areas (wearing trousers or a long skirt, not shorts and covering your shoulders is recommended but not essential). In more cosmopolitan cities such as Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Malacca, Ipoh and Johor Bahru, as well as East Malaysian states (Sabah and Sarawak) attitudes are more liberal. Women are not legally required to wear the hijab, known locally as the ''tudung'', except when entering mosques, where it is required for both Muslims and non-Muslims. ===Sexuality=== As a predominantly Muslim country, Malaysia tends to be conservative about sexuality. Public showing of affection in the more diverse, larger cities is tolerated but might invite unnecessary attention from the public. In more rural areas and in very conservative states like [[Kelantan]] and [[Terengganu]] on the East Coast of the Peninsula it is frowned upon and is best avoided. '''Don't kiss your partner in public'''; you'll inflame local sensibilities. Big cities like Kuala Lumpur have a fairly active gay scene and gay bashing is rarely heard of. However, same-sex relationships are a taboo subject and "carnal intercourse against the order of nature" is punished by up to 20 years jail and whipping (men only) under colonial era laws not usually enforced against consenting adult heterosexuals. Different states may also impose '''consecutive''' sharia law punishments of up to 3 years and six lashes against Muslims of all genders. ==Cope== ===Electricity=== Malaysian sockets are designed for the 3-pin rectangular-pronged British plug. Electricity is delivered at 240 V, 50 Hz. ===Newspapers=== Malaysia's main Malay newspapers are ''[http://www.bharian.com.my Berita Harian]'' and ''[http://www.utusan.com.my Utusan Malaysia]''. There are also numerous Chinese newspapers, the most popular ones being the ''[http://www.chinapress.com.my China Press]'' (中國報), ''[http://www.enanyang.my Nanyang Siang Pau]'' (南洋商報) and ''[http://www.sinchew.com.my Sin Chew Daily]'' (星洲日報), as well as several Tamil newspapers. Malaysia's English-language paper of record is the '''''[https://www.nst.com.my New Straits Times]''''', a splinter from the Singaporean Straits Times, which is available at most hotels and newsstands. '''''[https://www.thestar.com.my The Star]''''' and '''''[https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/ Free Malaysia Today]''''', an English-Malay bilingual online newspaper, are also available. ==Connect== === Internet === Broadband Internet is available for free in most accommodations and some restaurants, especially fast-food outlets and shopping malls, including Starbucks and Coffeebean, some McDonald's and Subway. However, not every restaurant has WiFi, especially smaller ones. Southasian restaurants have WiFi more often. Cybercafés are a thing of the past, since nowadays most people have mobile data. === Mobile and data === Malaysia was one of the first countries in the world to offer 4G connectivity. There are a lot of providers, which usually offer good coverage. The easiest SIM to get is U-mobile, from RM10, with ok-ish coverage and a 30-day package of "unlimited" or 40GB internet for RM35 or RM25 per month respectively (2025). SIMs are available in every 7-11 and in some other places. There are also other SIM cards (RM10) available in some cheaper malls and Pakistani places which have 50GB packages for RM18. If you travel to Singapore or other neighboring countries, you can buy a 14-day "unlimited" package for RM35 (Feb 2024), which works in all of them including Malaysia. Other providers have better coverage but don't offer worthwhile roaming options. === Telephone numbers === The country code for Malaysia is +60. [[File:Sandakan Sabah Public-Phone-Booths-01.jpg|thumb|Phone booths in Sabah]] [[Telephone service|To call]] a Malaysian number from abroad * '''from overseas except Singapore''' dial the international access code, the country code for Malaysia, the area or mobile operator code without the "0", and then the phone number (for 123-4567 in Kuala Lumpur, in Wikivoyage written as +60 3 123-4567, dial {{nowrap|+60 3 123 45467);}} * '''from Singapore''', dial 02, the area or mobile operator code with the "0", and then the phone number {{nowrap|(02 03 123 45467).}} To domestically call a Malaysian number, * from a mobile phone or a landline phone '''outside the local area''', dial the area or mobile operator code, including the leading "0", followed by the phone number (03 123 4567), * from '''within the local area''' just dial the phone number without any code; '''from mobile phones''', you can always include the area or operator code, although it is unnecessary between phones with the same operator (where you are is immaterial with mobile phones). '''To call a foreign number''' not in Singapore from Malaysia, use the international dialling prefix '''00''' (on mobile phones: "+"). For Singapore, instead use the pseudo area code 02 and leave out the international prefix and country code. On the Maxis network, take advantage of 50% IDD rates on international calls via IDD132. This doesn't require any registration: just dial "132" prior to the "00" (don't use "+"). Malaysia also has four '''mobile telephone''' service providers, [http://www.maxis.com.my Maxis], [http://www.digi.com.my DiGi], [http://www.celcom.com.my Celcom], and [http://www.u.com.my U Mobile] which utilise codes '''012''', '''013''', '''014''', '''016''', '''017''', '''018''', '''019''', used like area codes. Network connection in Malaysia is excellent. Mobile number portability has been implemented, meaning a code like 012 that traditionally belonged to Maxis, can now be a DiGi subscriber. Mobile networks utilize the GSM 900 and 1800 systems. 3G (WCDMA), EDGE and HSPDA networks are available in larger towns. International roaming onto these networks is possible if your operator allows it. '''Prepaid SIM cards''' for sale at airports are pretty affordable; a one-week SIM card with a good amount of data might cost about RM20-30 (2019). See also [[#SIM cards|SIM cards]] above. Malaysian '''landline telephone numbers''' have either seven or eight digits. The country is divided into areas which have been assigned two- or three-digit area codes, which have to be dialled when calling from outside the area (or from a mobile phone). The area codes are: * '''03''' — Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor (all are Klang Valley), Pahang (Genting Highlands only) * '''04''' — Kedah, Penang, Perlis * '''05''' — Perak, Pahang (Cameron Highlands only) * '''06''' — Malacca, Johor (Muar district only), Negeri Sembilan * '''07''' — Johor (all districts except for Muar) * '''082''' — Sarawak (Kuching and Samarahan districts) * '''083''' — Sarawak (Sri Aman and Betong districts) * '''084''' — Sarawak (Sarikei, Sibu and west Kapit districts) * '''085''' — Sarawak (Miri and Limbang districts) * '''086''' — Sarawak (Bintulu districts and Belaga) * '''087''' — Sabah (Interior Division), Labuan * '''088''' — Sabah (West Coast and Kudat Division) * '''089''' — Sabah (Sandakan and Tawau Division) * '''09''' — Kelantan, Pahang (all districts except Genting Highlands), Terengganu === Postal services === [[File:Pos Malaysia Arau Post Office.jpg|thumb|Post office in [[Arau]], [[Perlis]]]] Postage stamps for postcards internationally is just 0,9 RM (as of February 2024) Many international courier services, such as Fedex, DHL and UPS, are available in towns and cities, but the main postal service provider is [http://www.pos.com.my Pos Malaysia] which reliably provides postal services to most countries in the world. Postage rates in Malaysia are cheap. Much cheaper than Thailand, Singapore or Vietnam, and surface post is available as well. The mail is reliable and trustworthy. When posting a parcel, do not seal the box. This is to allow for inspection in case illegal items are posted this way (ask for help at the post office if needed). A local alternative to the international courier companies mentioned above is the Pos Laju, which provides just as reliable a service at a fraction of the cost! Non-urgent letters and postcards can be dropped in postboxes inside post offices or red postboxes found outside post offices and along main roads. If there are two slots in a postbox use the one that says "lain lain" for international post. Post offices are open M–Sa 8AM–5PM except public holidays, although a few in Klang Valley stay open until 10PM. In the states of Kedah, Kelantan, Johor and Terengganu they are closed on Fridays and public holidays. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|3|108|zoom=6}} kwqy8y6b2zjjzajvm8j1wt6eh0cp113 5091283 5091282 2025-07-11T09:58:04Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091283 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner | Cameron_Highlands_Tea_Plantation_banner.jpg}} '''Malaysia''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]], on the Malay Peninsula, as well as on northern [[Borneo]]. The country is one of Asia's tiger economies, having seen great economic and human development during the last several decades. While the capital Kuala Lumpur is a cosmopolitan city, deep jungles cover vast swaths of the land, and the offshore islands are home to pristine beaches and some of the world's best scuba diving sites. Malaysia is also a foodie's paradise, with its diverse ethnic groups contributing to an incredibly rich culinary heritage. == Regions == Malaysia is divided into two main geographical regions, commonly known as Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. See [[Malaysia#Geography|Geography]] for more information. === Peninsular Malaysia === {{Mapframe|3.95|108.85|width=500|height=200|zoom=5|staticmap=Malaysia regions map.png|name=Map of Peninsular and East Malaysia}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q213467,Q188947,Q188096,Q188953,Q189710,Q1865,Q182378,Q213893,Q185221|fill=#69999f|title=[[West Coast (Malaysia)|West Coast]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q185944,Q189701,Q191346|fill=#71b37b|title=[[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q183032|fill=#d09440|title=[[Johor|South]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q179029,Q214504|fill=#867ea9|title=[[Sabah]]}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q170462|fill=#4f93c0|title=[[Sarawak]]}} {{Regionlist | region1name=[[West Coast (Malaysia)|West Coast]] | region1color=#69999f | region1items=[[Perlis]], [[Kedah]], [[Penang]], [[Perak]], [[Selangor]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Putrajaya]], [[Negeri Sembilan]], [[Malacca (state)|Malacca]] | region1description=The more developed region, offering the modern capital, [[Kuala Lumpur]], UNESCO World Heritage cities with colonial flair and the [[Langkawi]] archipelago. Perlis, Kedah and Perak are the gateways to [[Thailand]] overland. | region2name=[[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] | region2color=#71b37b | region2items=[[Kelantan]], [[Pahang]], [[Terengganu]] | region2description=The more traditional Muslim region, home to ''[[Taman Negara]]'' (National Park), numerous unspoilt islands and the [[Jungle Railway]], which winds through the rural hinterlands. Kelantan is the gateway to [[Thailand]] overland. | region3name=[[Johor]] | region3color=#d09440 | region3items= | region3description=Comprising just one state, two coastlines, endless palm oil plantations and the gateway to [[Singapore]] via a causeway or bridge. }} ===East Malaysia=== {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Sabah]] and [[Labuan]] | region1color=#867ea9 | region1items= | region1description=Superb scuba diving in [[Sipadan]] island plus muck diving at [[Mabul]], nature reserves, the federal enclave of [[Labuan]] and the mighty [[Mount Kinabalu]]. | region2name=[[Sarawak]] | region2color=#4f93c0 | region2items= | region2description=The southern state of East Malaysia (Borneo). Home to traditional longhouses, lush jungles and national parks in contrast to the state capital, [[Kuching]]. It is the gateway to [[Brunei]] and [[Indonesia]] overland. }} == Cities == [[File:PetronasKLCC.jpg|thumb|The iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur]] <!-- Only cities of primary importance to tourists here, maximum 9 --> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuala Lumpur]]|wikidata=Q1865}} — the multi-cultural national capital, home of the Petronas Twin Towers * {{marker|type=city|name=[[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]]|wikidata=Q61092}} — the capital of [[Penang]] and hub of Malaysia's second largest metropolitan area, famed for its colonial-era architecture, multi-cultural populace, food and arts scene * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Malacca]]|wikidata=Q61089}} — the historical city of Malaysia with colonial-style architecture * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ipoh]]|wikidata=Q271619}} — the capital of [[Perak]], with a historic colonial old town and tin mining area * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Johor Bahru]]|wikidata=Q231318}} — capital of [[Johor]] and Malaysia's third largest city, at the border with Singapore * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuantan]]|wikidata=Q817578}} — capital of [[Pahang]] and largest city on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kota Kinabalu]]|wikidata=Q137271}} — close to tropical islands, lush rain forest and Mount Kinabalu * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuching]]|wikidata=Q220445}} — capital of [[Sarawak]], and largest city in East Malaysia * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Miri]]|wikidata=Q986803}} — resort city of Sarawak near the border with Brunei and gateway to [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]], [[Gunung Mulu National Park]] <!-- Only cities of primary importance to tourists here, maximum 9 --> ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cameron Highlands]]|wikidata=Q1028741}} — famous for its tea plantations * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Perhentian Islands]]|wikidata=Q2070782}} (''Pulau Perhentian'') — glittering jewels off the East Coast still undiscovered by mass tourism * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Taman Negara]]|wikidata=Q728141}} — a large area of rainforest national park spanning [[Kelantan]], [[Pahang]] and [[Terengganu]] * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kinabalu National Park]]|wikidata=Q60967}} — home of Mount Kinabalu * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Langkawi]]|wikidata=Q273303}} — an archipelago of 99 islands known for its beaches, rainforest, mountains, mangrove estuaries and unique nature. It's also a duty-free island * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Sipadan]]|wikidata=Q1412482}} (''Pulau Sipadan'') — one of the best dive spots in the world * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Redang]]|wikidata=Q1897123}} (''Pulau Redang'') — popular island destination for scuba divers * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Tioman]]|wikidata=Q771765}} (''Pulau Tioman'') — once nominated one of the most beautiful islands in the world * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Fraser's Hill]]|wikidata=Q3086678}} — a time warp to the colonial era == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMalaysia.png}} Malaysia is a mix of the modern world and a developing nation. With its investment in high technology industries and moderate oil wealth, it has become a rich nation in Southeast Asia. Malaysia, for most visitors, presents a happy mix: there is high-tech infrastructure and things generally work well and more or less on schedule, but prices remain more reasonable than, say, [[Singapore]]. The demographics between the rich and poor can also be quite apparent: for example, a high rise luxury condominium building built right across the street from old, rundown shop lots or flats. However, you will not find extreme rural poverty or gigantic urban slums as in most other countries of Southeast Asia. In terms of attractions, peninsular (West) Malaysia contains islands with gorgeous beaches and a fraction of visitors found in [[Thailand]]'s most popular beaches, mountain retreats surrounded by tea plantations, interesting historical cities, world-famous food, and the highly modern, multi-cultural capital of [[Kuala Lumpur]]. East Malaysia contains lush jungles with diverse native population and wildlife, as well as stunning natural attractions such as giant caves, beautiful mountains and fantastic diving sites. Notably, however, Malaysia is not as popular among backpackers as other Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand, [[Cambodia]] and [[Vietnam]], partly due to the relatively higher costs, and partly due to the more religious and conservative, albeit generally tolerant, culture. It also lacks the ancient Hindu and/or Buddhist temples and temple complexes of its neighbours, though it does have some large ones built since the 19th century. === History === [[File:Melaka-Dutch-Square-2164.jpg|thumb|The Dutch Square in Malacca]] Before the rise of the European colonial powers, the Malay Peninsula and the [[Malay Archipelago|Malay archipelago]] were home to empires such as the Srivijaya (whose capital was near modern [[Palembang]], [[Sumatra]], but which included the entire Malay Peninsula and lands further north at its greatest extent), the Majapahit (centred in [[Java]], now part of Indonesia, but believed by most scholars to have included the entire Malay Peninsula and most of coastal Borneo among its vassal states) and the [[Malacca]] Sultanate. The Srivijaya and Majapahit empires saw the spread of Hinduism to the region, and to this day, despite the fact that Malays are Muslims, many Hindu legends and traditions survive in traditional Malay culture. Mass conversion to Islam only occurred after the arrival of Arab traders during the Malacca Sultanate. [[File:Fort Cornwallis Eck.JPG|thumb|Fort Cornwallis in [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], [[Penang]] marked the site where the British colonisation of Malaya began in 1786.]] During the 16th century the Portuguese established the first European colony in Southeast Asia by defeating the Malacca Sultanate. The Portuguese were religiously intolerant and cruel, so the Sultan of Johor assisted the Dutch in defeating them, and the Netherlands took control of the city. The British also established their first colony on the Malay peninsula in [[Penang]] when it was ceded by the Sultan of Kedah in 1786. Finally, the area was divided into Dutch and British spheres of influence with the signing of the Anglo-Dutch Treaty in 1824. With this treaty, the Dutch agreed to cede Malacca to the British and in return, the British ceded all their colonies on Sumatra to the Dutch. The line of division roughly corresponds to what is today the border between Malaysia and [[Indonesia]]. Before World War II, the Malay Peninsula was governed by the British as the Federated Malay States (Selangor, Perak, Negeri Sembilan and Pahang), which were governed as a single protectorate, the Unfederated Malay States (Johor, Kedah, Perlis, Terengganu and Kelantan), which were each governed as separate protectorates. The Straits Settlements (Malacca, Penang and Singapore) were crown colonies directly administered by the British colonisers. These colonies and protectorates were collectively referred to as "[[Malaya]]". British Borneo consisted of the British colony of North Borneo, the Kingdom of Sarawak, which was ruled by a British family known as the "White Rajas", and the British protectorate of Brunei. [[Pacific War|World War II]] was disastrous for the British Malayan Command. The Japanese swept down both coasts of the Malay Peninsula and despite fierce fighting, much of the British military was tied down fighting the Germans in Europe and those that remained in Malaya simply could not cope with the Japanese onslaught. The British military equipment left to defend Malaya was outdated and no match for the modern technology used by the Japanese, and the only two British battleships based in the region, the HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse, were sunk by Japanese bombers off the East Coast of Malaya. By 31 January 1942, the British had been pushed all the way back to Singapore, which fell to the Japanese on 15 February 1942. The situation was no different on Borneo, which fell to the Japanese on 1 April 1942 after months of fierce fighting. The Japanese occupation was brutal, and many, particularly the ethnic Chinese, suffered and perished during the occupation. Among the most notorious atrocities committed by the Japanese were the Sandakan Death Marches, with only 6 out of 2,345 prisoners surviving the war. After World War II, the Federated Malay States, Unfederated Malay States and the Straits Settlements of Malacca and Penang were federated to form a single British colony known as the Malayan Union, with Singapore being split off to form a separate colony. In the Malayan Union, the sultans of the various states ceded all their powers except those in religious affairs to the British crown. However, widespread opposition to the Malayan Union led the British to reconsider their position, and in 1948, the Malayan Union was replaced by the Federation of Malaya, in which the executive positions of the sultans were restored. In Borneo, the White Rajas ceded Sarawak to the British crown in 1946, making it a crown colony of the United Kingdom. [[File:Dataran Merdeka (18359791323).jpg|thumb|Malaysian flag flying in ''Dataran Merdeka'', Kuala Lumpur]] On 31 August 1957, Malaya gained independence from the British. At midnight, the Union Jack was lowered, and the Malayan flag raised in its place at what is today ''Dataran Merdeka'' (Independence Square) in [[Kuala Lumpur]]. The crowd, led by the first Prime Minister of Malaya, Tunku Abdul Rahman, then proceeded to chant "''Merdeka''" seven times. On 16 September 1963, Malaysia was formed through the merging of Malaya with the British colonies of North Borneo (now known as Sabah), Sarawak and Singapore, with Brunei deciding not to join. The first several years of the country's history were marred by the Confrontation (''Konfrontasi'') — actually a series of acts of aggression by Indonesia that ultimately ended in her defeat and a formal peace that has held ever since — and claims to Sabah from the Philippines. On 9 August 1965 Singapore was officially expelled from the federation after several bloody racial riots as Singapore's majority Chinese population and the People's Action Party, led by Lee Kuan Yew (later the long-ruling Prime Minister of Singapore), were seen as a threat to Malay dominance. There were further racial riots in 1969, which led to the forced resignation of Tunku Abdul Rahman; his replacement by Tun Abdul Razak; changes in the Malaysian Constitution that sought to prevent the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition led by the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) from ever being defeated in a future national election; and the start of the New Economic Policy, which sought to aggressively promote the economic interests of the generally poorer Malay community (and also the non-Malay indigenous peoples of East Malaysia) over those of the generally less poor Chinese community (with the poorest major ethnic group, the Indians, and also to a very large extent the Orang Asli [aboriginal people] in the Peninsula mostly ignored in the process). In 1975, boat people from across the South China Sea in [[Vietnam]] started coming, and Malaysia became one of the most important places of first refuge for Indochinese refugees, but in general, only those of the Muslim Champa minority were invited to stay permanently. Later, during the period of tremendous economic development under the long premiership of Mahathir Mohammed, a large number of immigrant workers were invited from [[Bangladesh]], [[Indonesia]], [[India]], and several other countries in the area, and even more immigrated illegally. This further increased the diversity of the population, and quite a number of the workers were reported in local newspapers to have intermarried with local women, but it also led to social strife as many Malaysian men resented the competition, and while the economy depended on immigrant workers to do jobs most Malaysians were no longer willing to do, now that their standard of living was higher, most Malaysians also did not want to permanently absorb a large and potentially almost limitless number of poor people from the much more populous countries in the region. Some immigrants were expelled and even caned for immigration violations, but the issue has never been really resolved. Things came to a head in 2015 when allegations of corruption by then-prime minister Najib Razak surfaced in connection with 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), which was originally set up to promote economic development by attracting foreign investment. The allegations led to the ''Bersih'' (Malay for "clean") rally in which protesters unsuccessfully called for Najib to step down. However, widespread discontent arising from the 1MDB corruption scandal continued to simmer, eventually leading to a shock first-ever electoral defeat for the incumbent BN coalition in the 2018 general election. === Politics === Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy consisting of 13 states and 3 federal territories, nominally headed by the king (''Yang di-Pertuan Agong'', lit. Paramount Ruler), whose position rotates among the rulers of the 9 royal states of Malaysia every five years, giving Malaysia a unique political system of rotational monarchy. In practice, the king is only the nominal head of state, while the prime minister is the one who wields the most authority in government. Malaysia's government is largely based on the British Westminster system, consisting of a bicameral national parliament. The lower house, known as the ''Dewan Rakyat'' (Hall of the People) is elected directly by the people. The upper house, known as the ''Dewan Negara'' (National Hall), consists of 26 members elected by the state governments, with each state having 2 representatives, while the remaining members are appointed by the king. The head of government is the prime minister, who is the party leader of the winning party in the lower house. At the state level, each of the states also has its own unicameral ''Dewan Undangan Negeri'' (State Legislative Assembly), with the head of the state government being the ''Menteri Besar'' (First Minister, often translated as "Chief Minister" in English-language media) in the royal states, and the ''Ketua Menteri'' (Chief Minister) in the non-royal states. === Geography === Malaysia comprises two geographic regions, Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, which are separated by the South China Sea. '''Peninsular Malaysia''' (''Semenanjung Malaysia'') occupies all of the Malay Peninsula between [[Thailand]] and [[Singapore]], and is also known as West Malaysia (''Malaysia Barat'') or the slightly archaic [[Malaya]] (''Tanah Melayu''). It's home to the bulk of Malaysia's population, the capital and the largest city [[Kuala Lumpur]], and generally more economically developed. Peninsular Malaysia consists of plains on both the East and West Coasts, separated from each other by a mountain range known as the ''Banjaran Titiwangsa'', with the West Coast being more densely populated and generally more well-developed than the East Coast. Separated some 800&nbsp;km to the east of Peninsular Malaysia is '''East Malaysia''' (''Malaysia Timur''). East Malaysia occupies the northern third of the island of [[Borneo]], shared with [[Indonesia]] and tiny [[Brunei]]. Much of the development on East Malaysia is centred around the cities of [[Kuching]], [[Miri]] and [[Kota Kinabalu]]. Outside of the major cities and smaller towns are impenetrable jungle where head hunters once roamed and coastal plains rising to mountains. East Malaysia is rich in natural resources and is very much Malaysia's hinterland for industry and tourism, though those who make the trip will find it to be a world-class ecotourism destination. ===People=== Malaysia is a multicultural society. While Malays (a branch of the [[Austronesian]] group) make up a 52% majority, 27% of Malaysians are Chinese (who are especially visible in the cities), 9% are Indians, 12% are members of aboriginal peoples (often called ''Orang Asli'', Malay for "Original People"), and there is a miscellaneous grouping of 1.5% "others", including Thai communities in northern border states and the Portuguese clan in Malacca. The majority of the population (including virtually all Malays, as well as a significant minority of Indians) adheres to [[Islam]], the state religion, and there are substantial minorities who practice [[Christianity]], [[Buddhism]], Taoism, [[Hinduism]], [[Sikhism]] and animism, which are allowed under the constitution, subject to the supremacy of Islam — for example, it is illegal to proselytize other religions to Muslims. ===Culture=== Malaysia shares many cultural similarities with its neighbours, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore due to their common history. As the first great kingdoms to emerge in the region were Hindu kingdoms with much influence from India, Malay culture has substantial Indian influences. This is most visible in Malay cuisine with its relatively heavy use of curries, albeit using local instead of Indian spices, meaning that Malay curries often have a unique local flavour that is different from their Indian counterparts. In addition, the Malay language contains quite a few loan words from Sanskrit, and traditional Malay arts show noticeable influences from Hindu mythology, albeit Islamised. Malaysia's minorities also continue to maintain their own distinct cultures, with the Chinese and Indian communities continuing to preserve the traditions brought from their ancestral homelands. In particular, Malaysia's ethnic Chinese community is considered to have preserved Chinese culture and language the best among all the overseas Chinese communities of the world. Moreover, as Malaysia was unaffected by the Cultural Revolution, the ethnic Chinese community of Malaysia has preserved many elements of traditional Chinese culture that have been lost in mainland China. ===Holidays=== {{ramadandates}} One of the significant characteristics of Malaysian culture is its celebration of various festivals and events. The year is filled with colourful, exhilarating and exciting activities. Some are religious and solemn but others are vibrant, joyous events. One interesting feature of the main festivals here is the 'open house' custom. This is when Malaysians celebrating the festival invite friends and family to come by their homes for some traditional delicacies and fellowship. Multicultural Malaysia celebrates a vast range of festivals, but the ones to look out for nationwide are Islamic holidays, most notably the fasting month of '''Ramadan'''. During its 29 or 30 days, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sex from dawn to sunset. Not all Muslims follow the tradition, or sustain the full period of Ramadan fasting, but most do make a very serious effort. Pregnant, breast feeding or menstruating women are not expected to fast, nor are the elderly, the infirm, or travellers. People get up early before sunrise for a meal (''sahur''), and take off early to get back home in time to break fast (''buka puasa'') at sunset. At the end of the month is the festival of '''Eid ul-Fitr''', known locally as '''Hari Raya Puasa''' or '''Aidilfitri''', when many locals take one to two weeks off to 'balik kampung' or return to their home towns to meet family and friends. Accordingly, this is one of the many times in a year when major cities like Kuala Lumpur have virtually no traffic congestion. Another important festival is the Muslim festival of '''Eid ul-Adha''', known locally as '''Hari Raya Haji''' or '''Aidiladha'''. It is during this festival that Muslims perform the Hajj or pilgrimage to Mecca. In local mosques, cows and goats are donated by the faithful and sacrificed, after which the meat is distributed to all. Family reunions are also celebrated during other main festivals when locals usually put on traditional costumes and finery as these festivals are an integral feature of Malaysian society. During the month of Ramadan, non-Muslims are expected to be considerate of those fasting. Non-Muslims, as well as Muslims travelling (''musafir''), are exempt from fasting but it is polite to refrain from eating or drinking in public. Public school systems also require non-Muslims to refrain from eating in front of those who are fasting. Many restaurants close during the day and those that stay open maintain a low profile. Business travellers will notice that things move rather more slowly than usual. The upside for foreign travellers are the Ramadan bazaars in every city and town, bustling with activity and bursting at the seams with great food. That said, most Chinese stalls and restaurants remain open, and you will see people eating and drinking openly in Chinese-majority areas. Hotels and restaurants also pull out all stops to put on massive spreads of food for fast-breaking feasts. During the month of Ramadan, meals at the end of fasts are usually considered grand feasts. Worldwide fast-food chain McDonald's is known for holding several all-you-can-eat Ramadan feasts during the month. {{CNYdates}} Other major holidays include '''Chinese New Year''' (around January/February), '''Deepavali''' or '''Diwali''', the Hindu festival of lights (around October/November), the Buddhist holiday of '''Wesak''' (around May/June), and '''Christmas''' (25 December). During Chinese New Year, George Town and Ipoh become the major cities as many local Chinese working and living in KL originated from there. However this situation is changing gradually, as more and more people are making Kuala Lumpur their home town. While visiting during such festivals, travellers will be able to experience many wonderful celebrations, but the downside is many ethnic shops/eateries will be closed. The best option is to visit during the period just after the first two days of the major festival (Hari Raya/Chinese New Year), when shops will open, and the festive mood has still not died down. Another major celebration is '''Deepavali''', celebrated by the Malaysian Hindus as the festival of light originating from classical India and one of the main cultural celebrations. In Malaysia, locals practice this tradition by wearing new clothes and receiving token gifts of money. This practice has been adapted by all Malaysians regardless of their religion. They distribute red packets or ''ang pow'' during Chinese New Year, green packets or 'duit raya' for Hari Raya Aidilfitri and multi-coloured packets during Deepavali. Some uniquely Malaysian festivals of note include the '''Harvest Festival''' at the end of May each year and the ''''Pesta Gawai'''' in early June, both thanksgiving celebrations held in [[East Malaysia]]. '''Thaipusam''' is a Hindu festival that falls in January or February and is one of the must-see events. The largest procession in the country takes place at Batu Caves, Selangor. Male devotees carry decorated altars or ''kavadi'' up a flight of 272 steps towards the temple, all this while also having religious spears and hooks pierced through external surfaces of their bodies. The ability is attributed to divine intervention and religious fervour. Female devotees join the procession carrying pots of milk on their head instead. === Climate === The '''climate''' in Malaysia is equatorial. The north-east monsoon (October to February) deluges Borneo and the East Coast of the Peninsula in rain and often causes flooding, while the West Coast (particularly Langkawi and Penang) escapes unscathed. The milder south-west monsoon (April to October) reverses the pattern. The southern and central parts of Peninsular Malaysia, including perennially soggy Kuala Lumpur, are exposed to both but even during the rainy season, the showers tend to be intense but brief. Malaysia is close to the equator, so warm weather is guaranteed. Temperatures generally range from 32°C (90°F) at noon to about 26°C (79°F) at midnight. But like most Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia's sun-shining days are interrupted by monsoon season every year, and night temperatures can hit a low of about 23°C (73°F) on rainy days. Temperatures tend to be cooler in the highlands, with the likes of [[Genting Highlands]], [[Cameron Highlands]] and [[Fraser's Hill]] having temperatures ranging from about 17°C (63°F) at night to about 25°C (77°F) in the day. Mount Kinabalu is known to have temperatures falling below 10°C (50°F). ===Tourist information === * [https://www.tourism.gov.my/ Malaysia Tourism Corporation] == Talk == {{seealso|Malay phrasebook}} The national-level official language of Malaysia is '''[[Malay phrasebook|Malay]]''' (officially ''Bahasa Malaysia'', sometimes also known as ''Bahasa Melayu'') and '''English''' is also the co-official language of the state of [[Sarawak]]. The [[Indonesian phrasebook|Indonesian]] language, spoken across the border in Indonesia, is similar to Malay, and speakers of both languages can generally understand each other. The main differences are in the loanwords: Malay borrowed more from English, while Indonesian borrowed more from Dutch. Some parts of Malaysia near the Thai border, most notably [[Kelantan]], have dialects of Malay which are nearly incomprehensible to speakers of standard Malay, though most people in these areas will be able to converse in standard Malay if needed. '''English''' is compulsory in all schools and widely spoken in the larger cities, among the well-educated upper class, as well as around the main tourist attractions, although in rural areas a little Malay will come in handy. There is also a local dialect of English spoken among Malaysians in urban areas, not inappropriately known as '''Manglish''', which has its own simplified grammar and a vocabulary that is mostly English but includes borrowings from Malay and several other locally-spoken languages; it takes a bit of getting used to if you intend to join in the conversation on local topics. Almost all Malaysians will not pronounce the letter "h", so "three" becomes "tree". Malaysians will almost always try to speak 'standardized English' (British) when approached by Western travellers. In general, police stations and government offices have English-speaking staff on duty. [[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]] is taught to those who attend Islamic religious schools, and many clerics as well as other very observant Muslims have a functional command of Arabic. However, it is not widely spoken, though the Malay language does have a large number of loan words from Arabic. You also might notice some examples of Malay written with Arabic letters. This is called Jawi, and it is still used for religious publications and inscriptions, especially in more conservative states like [[Kelantan]], although the Latin alphabet is much more commonly used throughout the country. The Chinese community in Malaysia speaks a wide variety of Chinese dialects including [[Cantonese phrasebook|Cantonese]], [[Teochew phrasebook|Teochew]], [[Hakka phrasebook|Hakka]], [[Hainanese phrasebook|Hainanese]], [[Fuzhou dialect phrasebook|Hokchiu]] and [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]]. [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] is taught in Chinese schools while Cantonese is commonly heard in the mass media due to the popularity of TVB serials from Hong Kong among the Chinese community, so many are conversant in both, regardless of their native dialect. Malaysian cities with large ethnic Chinese populations will often have a dialect serving as a lingua franca among that community: in Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh, this is Cantonese; in Penang and Klang, Hokkien; and in Kota Kinabalu, Hakka. The most commonly spoken Indian language is [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]]; others include [[Malayalam phrasebook|Malayalam]], [[Punjabi phrasebook|Punjabi]] and [[Telugu phrasebook|Telugu]]. In the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia bordering Thailand, there are various ethnic Thai communities, known locally as the ''Orang Siam'', who speak various dialects of [[Thai phrasebook|Thai]]. [[Malacca]] in the south is also home to a Portuguese community which speaks a [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]] based creole. The remote forest areas of Peninsular Malaysia are also home to various tribal people known as the ''Orang Asli'', who speak various indigenous languages such as Semelai, Temuan and many others. In East Malaysia several indigenous languages are also spoken, especially [[Iban phrasebook|Iban]] and Kadazan. Films and television programmes are usually shown in their original language with Malay subtitles, although some children's programmes are dubbed into Malay. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== {{VisaRestriction |Entry '''will be refused''' to citizens of [[Israel]] with an Israeli passport unless holding a letter of approval from the Malaysian Ministry of Home Affairs. Additionally citizens of Israel require an onward ticket and will be asked to purchase one or be '''refused entry'''. Malaysia is no longer concerned about other nationals' passports that show entry stamps and/or visas from Israel. |lastedit=2013-03-07 }} ====Visa==== [[Image:World map of the visa policy of Malaysia.png|thumb|375px]] Most nationalities can enter Malaysia without a visa and can reside in Malaysia for 14 to 90 days, depending on their nationality. Refer to the '''[https://www.kln.gov.my/ Ministry of Foreign Affairs]''' for current information regarding visa requirements and stay periods. The East Malaysian states of [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]] each maintains its own immigration system and separate controls: even Malaysians from other states require a passport or MyKad on arrival. Those who wish to enter Malaysia for purposes other than for a Social or Business visit still require a visa for any period except for US citizens who enter for the purpose of studying. Nationals of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Montenegro, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Serbia, and Sri Lanka need a visa but can apply for an '''e-visa''', which is valid for 3 months for a stay of up to 30 days. You'll have to print out the visa once it's issued and bring proof of sufficient funds, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation when you enter the country. Citizens of India are exempted needing to have a visa for a stay of up to 30 days until December 31, 2026. '''Overstaying''' a visa will result in a US$10, €7.50 or RM30 fine per day. However it's fairly simple to avoid overstaying a visa by doing a "visa run" to a neighbouring country overland or via a cheap flight. Malaysia may impose '''caning''' as a punishment for overstaying a visa. ====Malaysia Digital Arrival Card==== Since 2024, all foreign travellers must complete the '''[https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)]''' online for every visit to Malaysia. You can only complete this card a maximum of 3 days ahead of your arrival — in practice you can even submit it on the day of arrival while in the queue to immigration. At KLIA there are also PCs available before immigration where you can complete the card. ====Autogates==== Travellers from most visa-free countries may use the '''autogates''' to complete immigration formalities when entering and exiting Malaysia via multiple ports of entry such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and the Causeway in Johor Bahru. Your passport needs to be valid for a minimum of 6 months if entering via KLIA, or 3 months if entering by road from Singapore. Entry through any other immigration checkpoint will require you to be processed at a manned immigration counter. {{infobox|Fingerprinting at Immigration|Malaysian Immigration authorities '''fingerprint''' visitors on arrival and departure. These fingerprints may well find their way to other country's authorities or other non-state agencies.}} It is advisable to use autogates if you can, as the immigration queues can be quite brutal. If you are qualified for the autogates, you don't need to enroll. You can proceed directly to an autogate, even if it's your first visit. There is one exception: if you want to proceed to East Malaysia, you need to go to a human counter and have your passport stamped as it is required by Malaysian law. You will need to clear immigration by showing your passport with an entry stamp when you arrive at a port in East Malaysia. If you are not a Malaysian citizen and cannot use the autogates, '''ensure that your passport is stamped on entry''', or you would be considered to have entered illegally otherwise (and Malaysian immigration officials don't always give entry stamps unprompted). Fines on the order of RM3,000 will be imposed when you try to leave without the entry stamp in your passport. Also '''ensure that your passport is stamped when you leave''', or you would be considered to have left illegally otherwise, which could cause problems should you wish to visit Malaysia again in the future. ====Transit visas==== Even though citizens of Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka normally require a visa, they can transit the same airport for up to 120 hours provided they arrive and depart on the same airline, land at [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]], [[Kota Kinabalu]], [[Kuching]], [[Penang]] or [[Johor Bahru]] and present an air ticket for the onward flight. ====Customs==== Travellers are not permitted to bring more than the equivalent of US$10,000 in Malaysian ringgit per person in and out of the country. There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you can bring into or out of Malaysia, but you are required to declare to customs if the total amount of cash and traveller's cheques you are carrying exceeds the equivalent of US$10,000 per person. Non-Muslim travellers aged 21 and above are permitted to bring up to 1L of alcohol into Malaysia. There is ''no'' duty free allowance for tobacco products including cigarettes; all tobacco products must be declared and duties paid. ===By plane=== [[File:KLIA MTB&Tower.jpg|thumb|[[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]] in [[Sepang]], [[Selangor]].]] National carrier '''[https://www.malaysiaairlines.com Malaysia Airlines]''' (MAS) has extensive coverage within Asia, and intercontinental flights to Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. It regularly ranks high in airline quality assessments. Low-cost carrier '''AirAsia''' and its sister company, '''AirAsia X''', connects an ever-expanding set of countries including [[Australia]], [[China]], [[Cambodia]], [[Hong Kong]], [[India]], [[Indonesia]], [[Laos]], [[Macau]], [[New Zealand]], the [[Philippines]], [[Singapore]], [[Sri Lanka]], [[Thailand]], [[Myanmar]] and [[Vietnam]]. Emirates also flies from most cities to [[Kuala Lumpur]] via [[Dubai]], and flights to [[Perth]], [[Australia]], make a brief stop in [[Kuala Lumpur International Airport|KLIA]]. * {{listing | name=AirAsia | alt= | url=http://www.airasia.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 3 8775-4000, 1 300 88 9933 (in country only)| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Malaysia Airlines | alt= | url=http://www.malaysiaairlines.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 3 7846-3000, 1-300-88-3000 (in country only)| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Emirates Airlines | alt= | url=http://www.emirates.com/my/english/index.aspx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 36 207 4999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} Most international flights land at '''[[Kuala Lumpur International Airport]] [http://www.klia.com.my (KLIA)]''' ({{IATA|KUL}}). KLIA's predecessor, the '''Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport''' ({{IATA|SZB}}) in Subang near [[Kuala Lumpur]] handles mostly domestic turboprop fights, with limited regional services to [[Singapore]] and [[Jakarta]]. See the [[Kuala Lumpur#get in|Kuala Lumpur '''Get in''' section]] for detailed airport information. Other airports which have significant numbers of flights to regional destinations are [[Kota Kinabalu]] (Sabah), [[Penang]], [[Kuching]] (Sarawak), [[Langkawi]] and [[Johor Bahru]]. Some other smaller airports also serve limited international flights from [[Singapore]]. === By train === * '''From Singapore:''' There's a shuttle train service which runs seven times each way during the morning and evening peak periods from Woodlands Train Station (in the north of [[Singapore]]) to JB sentral in [[Johor Bahru]], costing MYR5 from the Malaysian side and SGD5 on the Singapore side. Conventional intercity trains then connect [[Johor Bahru]] with [[Gemas]] (where you can transfer to a train to [[Kuala Lumpur]]) and Tumpat, near [[Kota Bharu]]. They don't always match up to the shuttle times, so be prepared for long waiting times or get a backup plan by bus should you miss the shuttle. Early morning trains to Singapore and late evening trains to Malaysia are usually packed on the weekdays and the traffic flow reverses on the weekends. Booking online at the [http://www.ktmb.com.my KTMB website] may reserve a precious seat without hassle. When travelling from Singapore into Malaysia, both Singaporean and Malaysian immigration checks are conducted at Woodlands Train Station before boarding the train for Malaysia. In the reverse direction, Malaysian immigration checks are conducted at JB Sentral before boarding, while Singaporean immigration checks are conducted on arrival in Woodlands. * '''From Thailand:''' Trains from Thailand start and terminate at the border at [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] where Thai and Malaysian immigration formalities are all conveniently done in the station, and you can transfer between Malaysian and Thai trains. There are two Padang Besar stations; one in Thailand and one in Malaysia; be sure to get off the train only at the Padang Besar station in Malaysia, as that is where both Thai and Malaysian immigration checks are conducted, and where transfers between Malaysian and Thai trains take place. There is also a less used eastern route from [[Hat Yai]] to Thai border town [[Sungai Kolok]], but there are no through trains to the nearby Malaysian station at Wakaf Bahru (near [[Kota Bharu]]). === By bus === Long-distance buses/coaches into Malaysia run from Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. Please see the relevant city pages for more details. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — There are buses to [[Miri]] and [[Kota Kinabalu]], leaving from the waterfront in downtown [[Bandar Seri Begawan]]. There are also buses to [[Limbang]]. * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — Direct buses operate between [[Pontianak]] or [[Singkawang]] in [[West Kalimantan]] and [[Kuching]] in [[Sarawak]]. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — A multitude of bus companies operate direct routes from Singapore to various destinations in [[Peninsular Malaysia]], including [[Malacca]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Penang]], [[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] cities and even [[Petaling Jaya]] and [[Subang Jaya]]. Frequent public buses make the short run between Singapore and [[Johor Bahru]], and you can save a few bucks by changing at JB's Larkin terminal to a cheap domestic bus instead of taking a more expensive direct bus. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — Several companies operate services from [[Kuala Lumpur]] and other cities in Malaysia to [[Hat Yai]] in [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]], where direct connections are available to [[Bangkok]] and many other Thai destinations. === By taxi=== Special cross-border taxis operate between Singapore and Johor Bahru. See [[Johor_Bahru#By_taxi]] for details. === By road=== [[File:Danok Sadao Border Crossing2.jpg|thumb|Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint in [[Kedah]], on the border with [[Thailand]]]] Land crossings are possible from [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]] and Singapore into [[Peninsular Malaysia]], as well as from Brunei and [[Kalimantan]] (the Indonesian side of Borneo) into [[Sarawak]]. There is no official crossing into [[Sabah]] from Indonesia even though they share a land border. An International Drivers Permit (IDP) is required. See the respective city or state pages for more detailed information. Starting from 1st October 2024, a vehicle entry permit (VEP) is required to drive a foreign-registered car into Malaysia from Singapore. You must apply for the permit [https://vep.jpj.gov.my/ online], affix the RFID tag that will be sent to your home address to your car, and activate the tag online before you can drive into Malaysia. Unless you already have a car in Singapore, it makes more sense to cross the border first and rent much more cheaply in Malaysia. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — The main crossings are at '''Sungai Tujoh''' on the [[Miri]], [[Sarawak]], to [[Bandar Seri Begawan]] (Brunei) road, and the '''Kuala Lurah-Tedungan''' checkpoint which is used for traffic travelling between Bandar Seri Begawan and [[Limbang]] in [[Sarawak]]. You can also access the [[Temburong]] district of Brunei by road from [[Limbang]] via the Pandaruan (Puni on the Brunei side) checkpoint and [[Lawas]] via Trusan (Labu on the Brunei side). * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — The main crossing is at the '''Tebedu-Entikong''' checkpoint on the main [[Kuching]]-[[Pontianak]] road. The other two official crossings are the '''Biawak-Aruk''' crossing on the main Kuching-[[Singkawang]] road, and the more remote '''Lubok Antu-Nanga Badau''' crossing. All three crossings are between the Malaysian state of [[Sarawak]] and the Indonesian province of [[West Kalimantan]]. There are also several unofficial crossings that are used by locals, but as a foreigner, you should not use them as that is considered to be illegal entry. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — The two crossings are the '''Causeway''' which links [[Johor Bahru]] with '''Woodlands''' in Singapore, and the Malaysia-Singapore '''Second Link''' (''Linkedua'') which links [[Iskandar Puteri]] with Tuas in Singapore. See [[Johor Baru#Get in|Johor Bahru '''Get in''' section]] and [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore '''Get in''' section]] for more details. Generally speaking, the Second Link is less congested than the Causeway, and is more convenient for those who wish to drive up the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, but a lot less convenient for people who just want to visit Johor Bahru. Singapore-registered cars must have their fuel tank filled to at least ¾ full when leaving Singapore. '''Cycling into Malaysia''' is permitted only through the Causeway but not the Second Link; use the motorcycle lanes and have your entry processed at the manual motorcycle counters. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — International checkpoints (from west to east, with the Thai towns in brackets) are at '''[[Wang Kelian]]''' ([[Satun]]) and '''[[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]]''' ([[Padang Besar (Thailand)|Padang Besar]]) in [[Perlis]], '''[[Bukit Kayu Hitam]]''' ([[Sadao]]) and '''Kota Putra''' (Banprokob) in [[Kedah]], '''Pengkalan Hulu''' (Betong) in [[Perak]], and '''Bukit Bunga''' (Buketa) and '''[[Rantau Panjang]]''' ([[Sungai Kolok]]) in [[Kelantan]]. Thai immigration has long been known to demand a bribe of RM2/20 baht per person to stamp you in or out, though there has been a crackdown on this. Instead, there is now an official fee levied by Thai immigration if you are crossing the border at peak times (5AM-8:30AM, noon-1PM or 4:30PM-9PM on weekdays, and all day on weekends and both Malaysian and Thai public holidays); this is 25 baht for the driver and 5 baht for each passenger if crossing the border by car, and 10 baht for the rider and 3 baht for the pillion if crossing by motorcycle. No fee is payable if you are walking across the border. === By boat === [[File:Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal.jpg|thumb|Ferry terminal in [[Iskandar Puteri]], [[Johor]]]] Ferries connect various points in [[Peninsular Malaysia]] with [[Sumatra]] in Indonesia and [[South (Thailand)|southern Thailand]], [[Sarawak]] with Brunei, and [[Sabah]] with [[East Kalimantan]] in Indonesia and [[Mindanao]] in the Philippines. Luxury cruises also run from Singapore and sometimes [[Phuket]] (Thailand) to Malaysia. * '''[[Brunei]]''' — Ferries travel daily between the Muara Ferry Terminal in Brunei and [[Labuan]]. * '''[[Indonesia]]''' — The main jumping-off points from Indonesia are the [[Riau Islands]] of [[Batam]], [[Bintan]] and [[Karimun]]; [[Dumai]], [[Medan]] and [[Pekanbaru]] on the [[Sumatra]] mainland as well as [[Nunukan]] in [[East Kalimantan]]. Ferries link [[Batam]] with Batu Pahat, [[Iskandar Puteri]] and [[Johor Bahru]]; [[Bintan]] with [[Johor Bahru]]; [[Karimun]] with Batu Pahat and Kukup in [[Johor]]; Dumai with [[Malacca]], Muar in [[Johor]], Port Dickson (in [[Negeri Sembilan]]) and [[Port Klang]], the port for [[Selangor]]; Pekanbaru with [[Malacca]]. Daily ferries also link Nunukan and [[Tarakan]] with Tawau in [[Sabah]]. There are also minor crossings like between Bengkalis in [[Riau]] and Batu Pahat; [[Sumatra]] and [[Malacca]] and Muar in [[Johor]]; and Tanjung Balai Asahan in [[North Sumatra]] with [[Port Klang]], the port for [[Selangor]]. * '''[[Singapore]]''' — A daily ferry runs between Tanah Merah and [[Desaru]], and there is a weekend service between Tanah Merah and [[Pengerang]], both in [[Johor]]. See the [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore '''Get in''' section]] for details. * '''[[Thailand]]''' — Four ferries travel daily (reduced to three during Ramadan) between Tammalang at [[Satun]] and Kuah on [[Langkawi]], Malaysia. Both passenger bum boats and vehicular ferries operate between Ban Taba near [[Tak Bai]] in [[Narathiwat_(province)|Narathiwat province]] and Pengkalan Kubur in [[Kelantan]], Malaysia. === On foot === It is possible to enter Malaysia from [[Thailand]] on foot at [[Wang Kelian]] and [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] (both in [[Perlis]]), [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]] ([[Kedah]]), Pengkalan Hulu ([[Perak]]) and [[Rantau Panjang]] ([[Kelantan]]). From [[Singapore]], it is possible to cross into Malaysia on foot using the Causeway, but be prepared for a very long walk as Malaysian immigration is now located 2km inland from the border. Unlike the previous customs and immigration complex, the current one was not set up to handle pedestrian traffic, meaning that there are no pedestrian footpaths on the Malaysian side, and you have to walk on the road among vehicular traffic to get to customs and immigration. Crossing the Second Link on foot is not allowed; not that there would be any practical way to continue your journey on either side even if you did. In East Malaysia, there is a ferry from [[Kota Kinabalu]] to [[Labuan]]. == Get around == Immigration controls are in place for travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, as well as between the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. Malaysian citizens need to present their ID cards, while foreign citizens are required to present their passports in order to travel. === By plane === Flying is the only practical option for traveling between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, as well as reaching some of the more remote outposts of Borneo. Largely thanks to budget carrier '''[http://www.airasia.com AirAsia]''', Malaysia is crisscrossed by a web of affordable flights with advertised promotional prices starting at RM9 for flights booked well in advance. State carrier '''[http://www.malaysiaairlines.com Malaysia Airlines]''' also has competitive fares which now include equally or even lower-priced tickets if booked in advance through the internet, with a few more frills. Their offshoot '''[https://www.fireflyz.com.my/my/en/home.html Firefly]''' operates a handy network of turboprop flights radiating out of Penang and Kuala Lumpur's second airport Subang (Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah). In [[Sabah]] and [[Sarawak]], '''[http://www.maswings.com.my MASWings]''', operates turboprop services linking interior communities, including those in the [[Kelabit Highlands]], with coastal cities. === By bus === {{infobox|Report Bad Drivers|Bus drivers (especially on more "rural" routes) sometimes drive carelessly, speed like maniacs, overtake on blind corners, etc. The vast majority of journeys are problem-free. However, some horrific accidents attributed to reckless driving have led to a crackdown and a nationwide hotline, and an SMS number for reporting these drivers/vehicles has been set up. This number is conveniently pasted on the back of every single large vehicle in the country.}} [[File:Higer-RapidPenang.JPG|thumb|Public bus in Penang]] The cheapest way to travel in Malaysia is by bus. All towns of any size have a bus terminal offering connections to other parts of the country. There are many companies of varying degrees of dependability, but two of the largest and more reliable are '''[https://www.transnasional.com.my/ Transnasional]''' and '''[http://www.plusliner.com.my/ NICE/Plusliner]'''. 24-seater "luxury" buses are recommended for long-distance travel. Air conditioning on some buses can be extremely cold so don't forget to bring a good sweater, pants and socks, especially for overnight journeys on luxury buses! If travelling on holidays or even over the weekend, it is advisable to reserve your seats in advance. Many bus companies allow for you to book online directly through their website. However, some only allow online booking for individuals with Malaysian credit cards, which is not really convenient for international visitors. With some website you will still have to pay a station fee of RM2 at the bus station, with others not. At TBS (KL) it is easy to book a bus directly at the station. Often RM0.40 are charged as insurance by stations, tell them if you don't want that. The common booking websites are: * {{listing | name=Bus Online Ticket |alt=| url=https://www.busonlineticket.com/ | email=sales@busonlineticket.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+603 2027 4626 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=|lastedit=2019-05-26| content= }} * {{listing | name=redBus | alt= | url=http://www.redbus.sg | email=support@redbus.sg | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+65-31582888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Easybook | alt=Easibook | url=http://www.easybook.com | email=enquiry@easybook.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+60 4 332 7718 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-03-27 | content= }} === By train === [[File:Padang Besar 4.jpg|thumb|KTM ETS train at Padang Besar station]] State operator [http://www.ktmb.com.my '''Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad''' (KTMB)] provides relatively inexpensive and generally reliable services around [[Peninsular Malaysia]] (but not [[Sabah]]/[[Sarawak]] in [[Borneo]]). The main western line connects [[Butterworth]] (Penang), [[Ipoh]], [[Kuala Lumpur]] and [[Johor Bahru]], while the eastern line branches off at [[Gemas]] and runs through [[Gua Musang]] and the [[Taman Negara]] to [[Tumpat]], near the Thai border and the [[Perhentian Islands]]. Be sure to hold on to your ticket, as it will be checked at your destination station before you are allowed to leave. The pride of KTMB's fleet is the '''ETS''' (Electric Train Service) from the Thai border at [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] to [[Segamat]], with a branch line to [[Butterworth]] (with transfers to/from [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] by ferry), running clean, punctual and modern air-conditioned trains daily at up to 140&nbsp;km/h. ETS trains are classified as '''Express''', '''Platinum''', '''Gold''' and '''Silver''', with the former the fastest and stopping only at major stations, and the latter being the slowest and stopping at every station. Seating in all four is the same but faster trains are slightly more expensive, with the fares for the popular KL-Ipoh route clocking in at 46 RM (Express) to 31 RM (Silver). Platinum trains also offer a '''business class''' cabin at extra cost, with wider seats and more leg room, and access to a business class lounge if you are departing from KL Sentral. There is no longer ETS service from Padang Besar to Butterworth; the route is served by '''KTM Komuter''' trains instead, which while also electrified and air-conditioned are designed for commuter rather than long-distance travel. The rest of the network, though, is mostly single-track, with slow diesel locos and all too frequent breakdowns and delays. In May, 2016 KTMB ceased all sleeper trains on the western line, following the electrification of the track to Gemas. An air conditioned 2nd class only, diesel shuttle train now connects the section from Gemas to JB Sentral. Electrification and double tracking of the Gemas to [[Johor Bahru]] section is expected to be completed by 2025. The '''[[Jungle Railway]]''' is the apt description for the eastern line between [[Tumpat]] (close to the Thai border) and [[Gemas]], including stops at [[Gua Musang]], [[Kuala Lipis]], [[Jerantut]] (for [[Taman Negara]]) and Wakaf Bahru (for [[Kota Bharu]] and the [[Perhentian Islands]]). The daytime services on this line use clean, modern and air-conditioned "Class 61" diesel multiple units (DMUs), which have replaced the old non-air-conditioned locomotive-hauled trains, though the seats do not recline, which can make them rather uncomfortable for longer journeys. No daytime services run along the entire line, so you will need to change trains at Kuala Lipis to travel all the way between Gemas and Tumpat. The eastern line also has one night express train (for which reservations are possible and recommended) going in each direction between Johor Bahru and Tumpat. These use older locomotive-hauled trainsets, which have air-con seats and '''Superior Night''' (ADNS) sleeper cars, which have upper and lower berths along each side, each bunk having a solid partition at each end and a side curtain for privacy. The carriages shake and rattle quite a bit but are comfortable and clean, though the toilets may come across as a little grimy. These trains have windows for both top and bottom bunks, unlike on Thai sleeper trains. A third line, known as the '''[https://www.mrl.com.my/en/ East Coast Rail Link]''' is under construction between [[Port Klang]] and [[Kota Bharu]], with plans for it to pass through [[Kuantan]] and [[Kuala Terengganu]] along the way. It is scheduled to be completed in 2027. Tickets can be booked and even printed online at KTMB's site. Enquiries and reservations can be made by phone at KTMB's call centres, {{Phone|+60 3 2267-1200}} (Malaysia) or, {{Phone|+65 6222-5165}} (Singapore). In East Malaysia, the only railway line is run by [https://railway.sabah.gov.my/ '''Jabatan Kereta Api Negeri Sabah''' (JKNS)]{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (Web-site in Malay only), running from Tanjung Aru near [[Kota Kinabalu]] to the town of [[Tenom]]. The '''[https://www.belmond.com/trains/asia/eastern-and-oriental-express/ Eastern & Oriental Express]''' was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and as of May 2025 only conducts luxury excursions within Malaysia. === By car === [[File:Malaysia Expressway Network.svg|thumb|A map of Malaysia's expressways (all are in Peninsular Malaysia; none are in Sabah or Sarawak), with dotted lines indicating proposed ones that have yet to be built]] {{main|Driving in Malaysia}} Malaysia has an excellent highway network with over {{km|2000}} of expressways, culminating in the '''North-South Expressway''' (''Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan'') along the West Coast from [[Johor Bahru]] at the border with [[Singapore]] all the way to [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]] in [[Kedah]] at the border with [[Thailand]]. There is also the '''East Coast Expressway''' (''Lebuhraya Pantai Timur''), crossing Peninsular Malaysia coast-to-coast from [[Kuala Lumpur]] to [[Kuantan]] before heading up north towards [[Kuala Terengganu]]. Petrol is slightly cheaper than market prices at RM1.90/litre (Ron 95) (in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak). Tolls are payable on expressways, but these are priced at varying degrees, ranging from expensive to reasonable: driving the length of the country {{km|734}} from the Thai border to Singapore costs RM108. While you can drive from Singapore to Thailand within a day on the West Coast, the highway system is considerably less developed on the East Coast, and even less so in Sabah and Sarawak, so be sure to factor in additional travel time if travelling in those areas. Toll prices for highways and causeways inside major cities, especially Kuala Lumpur, are priced exorbitantly, ranging from RM4 to RM7 for each exit. For those thinking of using GPS (Garmin, Papago, Galactio and Mio-Polnav), the Malaysia maps can be downloaded for free from http://www.malfreemaps.com/index.php{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} Garmin user lucky enough to have another choice from http://www.malsingmaps.com/portal/. Both party maps is contributed by the amazing non-profit group of people who share a common passion to make a GPS maps of Malaysia. While driving quality and habits in Malaysia are better than in most of the rest of Southeast Asia, they are not necessarily great, especially compared to what visitors from most Western countries are used to at home. Traffic in Malaysia drives on the left, a legacy left by the British. Beware reckless motorcyclists, especially at night, and especially if you are a pedestrian: locals typically disregard a red light for left turns, putting pedestrians at risk. As a motorist, at traffic lights, motorcyclists will accumulate in front of you — let them drive away first to avoid accidents. Care is needed when driving in larger cities, such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and George Town. Problems include apparently suicidal motorcyclists, congested traffic lanes throughout the day, and bewildering roads especially in the older parts of the city where planning was virtually nonexistent by the then British colonial occupiers. Out of town, however, cars and motorcycles are the best and sometimes the only way to explore the country. Some of the more rural areas have motorcycles and scooters to rent for as little as RM25/day, a great way to explore the local area or larger islands like Langkawi. As expected, most rental agencies will require a valid driving licence to be presented upon rental. Fuel levels are often compared before and after rental, and the vehicle is also checked for damage, so ensure everything is documented, and request a refund of any excess fuel if possible. The bigger car rental companies like Hertz and Avis may also require you to have a valid credit card where a deposit will be authorised but not deducted from (unless there is damage to the car). === By taxi === [[File:Taxi in Penang 02.JPG|thumb|Taxi in Penang]] Taxis are available in all cities and larger towns, although in smaller places you may have to call one (ask any shopkeeper or consult the yellow-pages). You will generally need to negotiate the fare in advance, although prepaid coupon taxis are usually available at airports. RM5 should suffice for a short cross-town trip, while RM100 is enough to hire a taxi for a full day. [[File:KotaKinabalu Sabah Taxi-waiting-for-passengers-01.jpg|thumb|Taxis in [[Kota Kinabalu]], [[Sabah]]]] Many taxis will refuse to use the meter, even though there is an official rate. Most taxis now have a sticker on the rear door informing tourists that haggling is prohibited. Taxi drivers, sensing that you are a tourist, may drive around and take a very long route to reach your destination. If you need a taxi late at night, it is best to use the dial-a-taxi service as there have been incidents in which taxis flagged down during those hours have been fake/unregistered. An unregistered taxi driver might rob or assault you with the help of other assailants. You are also more likely to get a metered taxi by flagging one at a street than at a taxi stand. It is advisable to study maps and compare fares on the internet before visiting the country. Knowing distances between places is helpful when negotiating with taxi drivers. They won't try to fool even a foreigner who demonstrates clearly that he knows the distance from point A to point B is 50 km and not 150 km. Do not accept the first rates for inter-city travels by car offered by hotels, as these could be as much as double normal prices. In this case, negotiate with a taxi driver directly for a better and fair price (for example, a hotel near Balok Beach, not very far from Kuantan, asked 800 RM for a ride to Johor Bahru, while a negotiated price with a taxi driver who could be found in downtown Kuantan came down to a normal 400 RM). But for all this you need to know the exact distance and if possible even the exact itinerary between your departure and arrival point. In Kuala Lumpur, the budget taxis are usually coloured Red and White (City taxi – these taxis are not allowed to travel out of the city e.g. to another state) or Yellow. Taxis are usually small saloons such as Proton Wira and run on NGV (Natural Gas). The Blue taxis are larger saloons or MPVs (Multi Purpose Vehicles) and more luxurious. These cost typically 25–30% more than the budget taxis & are normally available at taxi stands all over Kuala Lumpur including the major malls & hotels. The Red & White taxis can be hailed off the roads and are metered. Ensure that the taxi driver is a Malaysian (all drivers must have a taxi permit &amp; license with their photo on it) before you board, as unscrupulous taxi owners have been known to rent their taxi out to unlicensed stand-ins. All legal taxi drivers must be Malaysian citizens or permanent residents as the Malaysian government does not issue work visas to foreigners to drive taxis. Additionally, beware of unlicensed taxis ''(taxi sapu)'' at the airports. They can literally take you for a ride. There will be touts at the airports offering travellers their taxi service, even pretending to be legitimate. As unbelievable as it may sound, some have been known to rob first time visitors hundreds of ringgit for a single trip into the city, charging 100 times more than the correct fare. At the airports '''always''' get your taxi from the authorised operators' booths set up in the airport itself & '''never''' from anyone that solicits directly. They will always claim to be legitimate but are rarely licensed and may be unsafe. The taxi operator booths can provide you with receipts. Another tip is to book your taxis in advance. All good hotels' concierge will be able to assist you with this. If travelling in an unlicensed taxi you may not be covered by your travel insurance should that taxi be involved in a mishap. === By ride-hailing === The most popular ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/my/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former Southeast Asian operations. You can pay with your card (via the Grab app) or cash; most drivers have change. Rides within KL seldomly cost more than RM15. If it seems overly expensive at a certain moment, walk a little and check again — often near major points of interests ride are more expensive. ===By bicycle=== Although Malaysia's cycling infrastructure is not well developed, travelling by bicycle is a good way to enjoy the scenery while exploring rural Malaysia. Long-distance bicycle tours are sometimes organised by enthusiast groups, including some cross-border tours from Singapore. When cycling on the road, you are required to ride in a single file, and riding in the shoulder is forbidden. Cycling on pedestrian footpaths is also forbidden except for toy bicycles ridden by children under the age of 12. All bicycles must be equipped with a bell and independently-operated brakes on each wheel. A white front light and a red rear light are mandatory when cycling at night. It is legal cycle on any road unless there is a sign prohibiting it. While there is no specific law against cycling on expressways, you are highly advised not to do so for safety reasons; all PLUS expressways (including the Malaysian side of the Second Link from Singapore) and the LATAR expressway linking Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Selangor have signs prohibiting cyclists. ===By boat=== Ferries link the mainlands of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia with several outlying islands. The main ferries foreigners are likely to use are from [[Butterworth]] (for connections with the railway network) to [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] on Penang island, as well as ferries to Kuah in [[Langkawi]] from [[Kuala Perlis]] and [[Kuala Kedah]]. Direct ferries between Penang and Langkawi no longer operate. On the East Coast, ferries operate to the popular dive resort islands, including from [[Mersing]] to [[Pulau Tioman]], from [[Merang]] to [[Pulau Redang]] and from [[Kuala Besut]] to the [[Perhentian Islands]]. There are no ferries between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. ==See== [[File:Penang Malaysia Wat-Chaiya-Mangkalaram-Temple-01.jpg|thumb|Wat Chaiyamangkalaram in [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], [[Penang]]]] [[File:Cameron Highlands Tea Plantation 2012.JPG|thumb|Tea plantations in the [[Cameron Highlands]], [[Pahang]]]] Malaysia is a fascinating country with many faces. It's multi-ethnic and multi-cultural, and its attractions vary from the iconic Petronas Towers in bustling '''[[Kuala Lumpur]]''' to perfect sandy beaches lined with palm trees and dense jungles with orangutangs and tigers. There are various impressive '''national parks'''. Expeditions range from those where you hardly lose sight of the hotel to those where you are fully immersed in the jungle for weeks, with only the guide and yourself. To spot a tiger or wild elephant in its natural habitat you might have to spend more than a few days in the wild, but you'll have no trouble seeing smaller wildlife. '''[[Bako National Park]]''' is the oldest national park in Malaysia and one of the best places to see proboscis monkeys. The vast jungles of '''[[Taman Negara]]''' have become a popular destination for [[ecotourism|ecotourists]], just like the remote but gorgeous '''[[Gunung Mulu National Park]]''', a World Heritage Site famous for its limestone karst formations, stone pinnacles and huge caves. To escape from the muggy tropics, do as the English did and head up to the cool tea plantations of the '''[[Cameron Highlands]]''', the quaint Tudor-style village on '''[[Fraser's Hill]]''' or climb '''[[Mount Kinabalu]]''' in [[Sabah]]. For many people, Malaysia brings pictures of pristine beaches with great diving opportunities to mind - and for good reason. '''[[Sipadan]]''' off the coast of Sabah, and the beautiful '''[[Perhentian]]''' Islands are among the best (and most popular) places. Coastlines in the less industrialized parts of the country, in general, are well worth driving through for their natural beauty and relaxing seaside kampung (villages). Follow the crowds to the postcard perfect sands of the '''[[Langkawi]]''' Islands, where you can have a cocktail on the beach and stay in one of the many resorts. If you're most interested in taking the pulse of a city, don't miss '''[[Kuala Lumpur]]''''s crazy quilt ultra-modern skyline, including the famous Petronas Twin Towers. [[George Town (Malaysia)|'''George Town''']], the capital city of [[Penang]], is known for its great food, colonial architecture, and relatively long-standing and institutionalized Chinese, Peranakan and Indian communities, who share the city with ethnic Malays, Thais and Eurasians. '''[[Ipoh]]''' is a good choice if you enjoy a somewhat slower paced city that features elegant colonial-era buildings from about 100 years ago, and '''[[Malacca]]''' is for those who want to trace the colonial and imperial history of Malaysia several hundred years further back. For a completely different experience, head to '''[[Kota Bharu]]''' to discover a unique conservative Islamic regional culture influenced by [[Thailand]], only a few kilometres away, or visit the diverse cities of [[East Malaysia]], like '''[[Kuching]]''' and '''[[Kota Kinabalu]]'''. Especially when travelling with children, consider visiting one of the country's excellent zoos, such as [[Taiping]] Zoo, [[Kuala Lumpur]]'s Zoo Negara, [[Johor Bahru|Johor]] Zoo and [[Malacca]]'s Zoo. == Do == [[File:Perhentian Beach (106319844).jpg|thumb|A beach on [[Perhentian Islands]], [[Terengganu]].]] [[File:Amphiprion clarkii sipadan.jpg|thumb|A first glance at Sipadan's colourful underwater life]] Malaysia has excellent '''[[scuba diving]]'''. Some of the more popular spots are the islands off the [[East Coast (Malaysia)|East Coast]] of peninsular Malaysia ([[Perhentian]], [[Redang]], [[Tioman]] and many more), although the dive season is limited to April to September. However, the most famous dive site &mdash; often ranked among the best in the world &mdash; is [[Sipadan]], off the easternmost tip of [[Sabah|Malaysian Borneo]]. There are many other less well known sites, like [[Layang Layang]]. ===Whitewater Rafting=== You can find tame Grade I to incredibly difficult and dangerous Grade V rapids in Malaysia's many national parks: * Jeram Besu - Grade I-III - [[Pahang]] * [[Telom River]] - Grade V - [[Pahang]] * Kuala Perahu - [[Pahang]] * Lipis River - [[Pahang]] * Anak Jelai River - Grade I-II - [[Pahang]] * Tembeling River - Grade I-II - [[Pahang]] * Sedim River - Grade III-IV - [[Kedah]] * Sungai Selangor - Grade I-III - [[Selangor]] * Kiulu River - Grade II - [[Sabah]] * Padas River - Grade III-IV - Sabah * Sungai Itek (Kampar River) - Grade I-III - [[Perak]] * Sungkai River - Grade I-II - Perak * Singoh River - Grade V - Perak * Endau River - [[Johor]] * Nenggiri River - Grade I-III [[Kelantan]] * [[Kuala Kubu Bahru]], [[Selangor]] ===[[Martial arts]]=== [[File:Men Pencak Silat Match Malaysia vs Vietnam.jpg|thumb|A silat match taking place.]] Malaysia is home to a uniquely Malay style of martial arts known as '''silat'''. Silat tournaments are held between different schools in the country, and the Southeast Asian Games is the premier international tournament in silat, with competitors from the neighbouring countries as well. There is also an equally traditional stylised dance version of silat called ''silat gayung'', which is quite worth seeing if you have the chance. In addition, there are also many kung fu masters among the ethnic Chinese community, and Malaysia is consistently one of the top performers in international wushu competitions. ===Music=== Malaysia is home to a uniquely Malay form of singing called ''dikir barat''. Dikir barat is typically sung by a choir, though there may also be solo parts, and is also either sung ''a capella'', or accompanied only by percussion instruments. Dikir barat competitions are fairly popular among the Malay community, and are frequently broadcast on Malaysian national television. == Buy == ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Malaysian ringgit | currencyCode=RM | date=July 2025 | USD=4.3 | EUR=5.0 | GBP=5.8 | SGD=3.3 | AUD=2.8 | IDR=2.6 | THB=1.3 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/myr-malaysian-ringgit XE.com] }} The Malaysian currency is the '''Malaysian ringgit''', abbreviated as '''RM''' (ISO code: '''MYR'''). It is divided into 100 '''sen''' (cents). The ringgit used to be referred to as the dollar and you may see the '$' symbol on older notes. Coins in Malaysia are issued in denominations of RM0.05 (silver), RM0.10 (silver), RM0.20 (silver or gold), and RM0.50 (silver or gold). Banknotes in Malaysia are issued in denominations of RM1 (blue), RM5 (green), RM10 (red), RM20 (orange), RM50 (green/blue) and RM100 (purple). 5 sen coins are mainly given as change in large establishments or supermarkets whereas peddlers and street vendors might be reluctant to accept them. The Singapore and Brunei dollars are also known as ''ringgit'' in Malay, so when near border areas you might want to check to be sure which currency they are quoting the price in. ====ATMs==== Widely available in cities, but do stock up on cash if heading out into the smaller islands or the jungle. Many ATMs, especially those of local banks, won't charge a fee for withdrawals in Malaysia (e.g. CIMB) — one of the upsides of Islamic banking. However, in 2024, Euronet acquired MEPS and is now the largest non-bank ATM provider in Malaysia. They are well known for their high fees and bad customer experience. Try to avoid them! Many ATMs (like Euronet) will offer to do the currency conversion for you, which is disadvantageous (often involving a markup of 4–14%) — this is how they make money. So, '''always decline [[Money#Dynamic currency conversion|currency conversion]]''' to your home currency! Due to fraud risk, many Malaysian ATMs do not allow you to withdraw using foreign debit cards. If your card is rejected, try another ATM. If you call your bank or credit company, they are often not aware of what happened because the transaction is declined by the Malaysia bank. Make sure to bring cash or other forms of money in case your debit card is rejected. ====Credit cards==== They can be used in most shops, restaurants and hotels, although '''skimming''' can be a problem in dodgier outlets. For credit card usage, make sure your credit/debit card is chip based as most merchants no longer accept '''magnetic strips''' based cards. ====Currency exchange==== Counters can easily found in major shopping areas and have a better exchange rate than in banks and airports. Be sure to say the amount you wish to exchange and ask for the 'best quote' as rates displayed on the board are often negotiable, especially for larger amounts. Large foreign banknotes, such as €500, are almost impossible to change for a good rate in some areas, especially in Sabah or Sarawak, where the banks offer a much lower rate comparing to the one you'd get if changing a banknote of smaller amount. Some money exchangers in Kota Kinabalu or Kuching even may refuse your business if you have large foreign banknotes, so the best option is to bring smaller notes unless you are willing to shop around. '''Foreign currencies''' are ''not'' generally accepted as is. The major exception is Singapore dollars, which may be accepted in Johor Bahru, but at a steep penalty. They're also accepted by KTMB and toll roads, but at an incredibly unfavorable 1:1 exchange rate, an anomaly dating back to the 1970s when the ringgit was interchangeable with the Singapore dollar. ====Banking==== Banks in Malaysia do handle international transactions. These ranges from a nominal fee if you are an account holder to a slightly more expensive amount if you are only walking in to use a certain service. British banks HSBC and Standard Chartered, and Singaporean bank UOB have a presence in Malaysia. Citibank has exited the Malaysian retail banking market, with all its retail banking assets having been taken over by UOB. Local banking giants are Maybank, RHB, Hong Leong Bank, Public Bank & CIMB Bank, & they are a very good alternative to the earlier mentioned banks, especially in terms of pricing, local knowledge & presence as well as international services available e.g. money transfers. For any enquiries and transactions, get a number, sit down and wait for your turn to be served. (There is no need to queue while you wait in air-conditioned comfort!) Banks are open Monday-Friday from 9:30AM-4PM and selected banks are open Saturday 9:30AM–11:30AM except on the first and third Saturdays of each month. In the states of Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, they are open Sunday to Thursday 9:30AM–4PM. === Costs === Most Western visitors will find Malaysia quite cheap, although it is noticeably more expensive than neighbouring Indonesia. You can live in hostel dorms and feast on hawker food for less than RM50 per day, but you'll wish to double this for comfort, particularly if travelling in more expensive East Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is also generally more expensive than the rest of the country. At the other end of the spectrum, luxury hotels and air fares are also quite affordable, with even the fanciest 5-star hotels costing less than RM400/night. [[File:Bukit bintang from kl monorail 2009.jpg|thumb|''Bukit Bintang'', a popular shopping area in [[Kuala Lumpur]]]] ===Tipping=== Tipping is not customary in Malaysia. A service charge of 10% is included in total bill in most air conditioned restaurants, but otherwise, you are not expected to pay anything more than what is stated in the bill. Most expensive restaurants, bars and hotels may indicate prices in the form of RM19++ ("plus plus"), meaning that sales tax (6%) and service charge (10%) will be added to the bill. Hotel tax of 5% may also be added to this. === Shopping === [[Kuala Lumpur]] is a shopping mecca for clothes, electronics, watches and computer goods, with very competitive prices by any standard. Local Malaysian brands include Royal Selangor pewter (thanks to KL's tin-mining heritage), British India and Eilanto. Traditional Malaysian fabrics (''batik'') are a popular souvenir. The cheapest place to easily buy ethnic souvenirs (especially wood-based) is in [[Kuching]], East Malaysia, and the most expensive place is in the major, posh [[Kuala Lumpur]] shopping centres. In fact, Malaysia has over 1000 shopping complexes, but many, especially outside the capital, have low occupancy due to oversupply. In general shops are open 10:30AM–9:30/10PM in the large cities. They open and close for business earlier in the smaller towns and rural areas. Some shops may also be closed on certain days, such as in [[Malacca]] where many shops and restaurants close on Tuesday. For great second-hand shopping from locals try [https://www.carousell.com.my/ Carousell] or [https://www.mudah.my/ Mudah.my]. If you buy too much while shopping in Malaysia (which is quite easy to do), surface postage rates are very reasonable. Excess luggage at the airport is still high but not as high as in many other countries. Check first with your airline. == Eat == [[File:Nasi Lemak dengan Chili Nasi Lemak dan Sotong Pedas, di Penang Summer Restaurant.jpg|thumb|''Nasi lemak'' coconut rice with ''sotong pedas'' (spicy squid), ''sambal'' chili paste, boiled egg, slices of cucumber, ''ikan bilis'' fried anchovies and peanuts served at a restaurant in Penang]] {{main|Cuisine of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei}} The crossroads of Malay, Chinese and [[Indian cuisine]], Malaysia is an excellent place to eat (''makan'' in Malay). Look out for regional specialities and Nyonya (Peranakan) cuisine, the fusion between Malay and [[Chinese cuisine|Chinese cooking]]. There is even unique Eurasian cooking to be found in the Portuguese Settlement in Malacca, the heartland of the Portuguese Eurasian community. Malaysians are very proud of their cooking and most towns or even villages have their own delicious specialities such as [[Penang]] ''char kway teow'', [[Kajang]] satay, [[Ipoh]] bean sprout chicken, [[Sarawak]] ''laksa'', [[Kelantan]]ese ''nasi dagang'' and [[Sabah]]an ''hinava''. Most eateries rely on word of mouth for advertising and are frequently located in the most inconvenient, out-of-the-way places, so you might want to try asking the locals for their personal recommendations. If you intend to travel around Malaysia trying out the local food, don't be fooled by the names. Sometimes two entirely different dishes from different parts of the country can be known by the same name. For example, ''laksa'' refers to completely different noodle dishes in [[Penang]] and [[Sarawak]]. Generally, you can eat pretty much anywhere in Malaysia. Food outlets are comparatively clean – the only thing you might avoid when you frequent the street or hawker stalls is ice for your drinks, since the blocks of ice used there might not be up to your hygienic standards. In actual restaurants this is not a problem. Also you might want to avoid ordering water from hawker stalls or the ''mamak'' restaurants as you may be served unboiled tap water. Cheaper places often do not display prices; most will charge tourists honestly, but check prices before ordering to make sure. Eating habits run the gamut, but most foods are eaten by '''fork and spoon''': push and cut with the fork in the left hand, and eat with the spoon in the right. As eating is a favourite 'pastime' of Malaysians, the majority are adept at using chopsticks, regardless of background. Noodles and Chinese dishes typically come with these, while Malay and Indian food is traditionally eaten by hand, though a fork and spoon are often used to eat Malay and Indian food in restaurants and can be requested if not provided. If eating by hand, '''always use only your right hand''' to handle the food, as Malays and Indians traditionally use their left hand to handle dirty things. When eating with chopsticks at Chinese restaurants, take note of the usual etiquette and most importantly, ''do not'' stick your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice. This is reminiscent of incense sticks burning at the temple and has connotations of wishing death on those around you. If eating in a group, serving dishes are always shared, but you'll get your own bowl of rice and soup. === Where to eat === [[File:Beaufort Sabah KedaiKopi-01.jpg|thumb|The interior of a kedai kopi near the railway station in [[Beaufort (Sabah)|Beaufort, Sabah]]]] The cheapest places to eat are '''hawker stalls''' and '''coffeeshops''', known as ''kedai kopi'' in Malay or ''kopitiam'' in Hokkien. These shops sell, besides coffee, many other types of food and drinks. Particularly popular and tasty are '''''mamak''''' stalls, run by Indian Muslims and serving up localized Indian fare like ''roti canai''. Most hawker stalls stay open till late and some even operate on shifts so you can find the same stall offering different food at different points throughout the day. You can also do take away from any stall: just ask for ''bungkus'' (Malay) or ''ta pao'' (Cantonese). A hawker meal will rarely cost you over RM5. Hygiene standards in Malaysia are generally good by Southeast Asian standards, and much better than in the Indian subcontinent. Just be observant, and generally speaking, if a stall is patronised by locals, it should be safe to eat there. One step up on the scale is the '''''kedai makanan''''' or the more Western-style '''''restoran'''''. A type to look out for is the '''''nasi kandar''''' restaurant, which originated in [[Penang]] but now can be found in virtually every Malaysian city, with a wide variety of Indian-style curries and toppings to ladle on top of your rice. The Malay answer to nasi kandar is known as '''''nasi campur''''', of which a subtype is '''''nasi padang''''', originating among the Minangkabau people from [[Padang]] in what is today [[Indonesia]]. The Chinese equivalent is known as '''economy rice''' or '''mixed rice''', or by its Cantonese name '''''chap fan''''' (雜飯). However, unlike nasi kandar or nasi campur, Chinese-style economy rice is typically ''not'' halal. '''Seafood restaurants''' (''makanan laut'') are comparatively pricey but still an excellent value by most standards; do check prices before ordering though. Local prawns are gigantic, Chinese-style steamed fish is a treat and crab served with sticky chilli sauce is particularly popular. Last but not least, some less adventurous options. '''Food courts''' in shopping malls are a good way to sample local delicacies in air-conditioned comfort, paying only a small premium over hawker prices. And yes, you can also find McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut and the usual suspects plus imitators throughout Malaysia. === Dietary restrictions === [[File:Su Xin Vegetarian Restaurant.jpg|thumb|A vegetarian restaurant in [[Johor Bahru]], [[Johor]].]] Being a Muslim-majority country, finding '''halal''' food in Malaysia is easy, but most Chinese stalls and restaurants, as well as those serving some indigenous ethnic groups of East Malaysia such as the Iban and Kadazan, are ''not'' halal. Ask if in doubt. Meals at Malay restaurants and Western fast food restaurants like McDonald's, Kentucky Fried Chicken and Pizza Hut are halal. Restaurants at major hotels are not certified 'Halal' as they serve alcohol as well, but with the exception of Chinese restaurants, they generally don't serve pork. Local Muslims will eat at Western, Chinese and Indian eateries if there is a halal sign on the walls. Most of the restaurants tend to display their halal certification or halal sign on their places. Halal certification is awarded and enforced by a government agency, usually JAKIM. There are ''no'' '''kosher''' establishments in Malaysia, so kosher-observant Jewish visitors will have to bring their own food with them and supplement it with fresh fruit. Kosher grocery stores and restaurants can be found in neighbouring [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], the [[Philippines]] and [[Vietnam]], so you might want to stop in one of those countries to stock up before entering Malaysia. '''Vegetarianism''' is well-understood by the Chinese and Indian communities (not so by the Muslim Malays and other indigenous minorities) and many restaurants or hawker stalls will be able to come up with something on request (DO state "no meat, no fish, no seafood – ASK for vegetables and/or eggs ONLY"), but don't rely entirely on menu descriptions: innocuous-seeming dishes like "fried vegetables" etc. will often contain shrimp paste (''belacan'', commonly used in Malay and spicy Chinese dishes), fish sauce, etc. or even pork bits or lard in non-halal Chinese restaurants, so if in doubt, ask. Indian restaurants usually have very good vegetarian selections – the ''roti'' (Indian flat bread – any kind; including roti canai, roti naan, capati, tosai) are good choices, and DO insist on being given ''dhal'' (lentil-based curry dip) lest you'll be given a fish curry dip. Purely vegetarian Chinese Buddhist restaurants (often serving remarkable "mock meat" products made from tofu, gluten etc.) are quite easy to find in big urban areas with a large ethnic Chinese population. Getting vegetarian food in rural areas, especially those near fishing villages or in Muslim/Malay-dominated regions, may be more difficult, but learning some basic Malay vocabulary will go a long way to help you get your message across – see the [[Malay phrasebook#Eating|Malay phrasebook]]. Upmarket Western restaurants, such as those serving Italian cuisine, will normally have some good vegetarian options. Be careful about Chinese bakery items too, as many seemingly vegetarian items use pork lard to make the pastry. '''Veganism''' is rarely understood in this part of the world and is largely mistaken as a synonym for vegetarianism. The safest bet for a vegan is to patronize a Chinese Buddhist vegetarian restaurant, since Chinese cuisine traditionally does not use dairy products. However, check to ensure that your dish does not contain eggs. And if you're still feeling uneasy or unsure, do not hesitate to ask. == Drink == [[File:Cheng Ho Tea House.JPG|thumb|A tea house in [[Melaka]].]] Malaysians like both coffee (''kopi'') and tea (''teh''), especially the national drink ''teh tarik'' ("pulled tea"), made by the ''Mamak'' (Indian Muslim) community, and named after the theatrical 'pulling' motion used to pour it. By default, both will be served hot, sweet and with a dose of condensed milk; request ''teh o'' to skip the milk, ''teh ais'' for iced milky tea, or ''teh o ais'' for iced milkless tea. Drinking with no sugar at all is considered odd, but asking for ''kurang manis'' (less sugar) will ease the pain. However, if you really want no sugar at all, you can try asking for "teh kosong." Malaysia produces its own tea, but little of it is exported except to neighbouring Singapore due to high domestic demand, so be sure to try some locally-grown tea when you are here. BOH, with its plantations in [[Cameron Highlands]], is Malaysia's largest tea brand. Another peculiar local favourite is the kopi tongkat ali ginseng, a mixture of coffee, a local aphrodisiacal root, and ginseng served with condensed milk that's touted as an alternative to viagra and red bull combined and is usually advertised with a picture of a bed broken in half. Other popular nonalcoholic options include the chocolate drink Milo and lime juice (''limau''). Freshly made fruit juices are also widely available, as well as a wide range of canned drinks (some familiar to many foreigners, some less so). There is also a local drink comprised of white soya milk and black grass jelly (''cincau'') called ''soya cincau''. It can be ordered at most hawker centres and local roadside cafes (''kedai kopi/kopitiam''). === Alcohol === [[Image:Gawai.JPG|thumb|Tuak is widely consumed during Gawai Dayak festival and Christmas Day.]] Although alcohol consumption is illegal for Muslims in Malaysia, licensed venues are permitted to sell alcohol to non-Muslims. With the exception of tax-free islands ([[Labuan]], [[Langkawi]], [[Tioman]]) and duty free shops (for example in [[Johor Bahru]]), prices are comparatively high, with a can of beer costing RM7.50 or more even in supermarkets or 7-Eleven stores. However, in East Malaysia, smuggled liquors are widely available. The legal drinking age in Malaysia is 21. In East Malaysia, particularly [[Sarawak]], ''tuak'' is a common affair for any celebration or festivals such as Gawai Dayak and Christmas Day. ''Tuak'' is made from fermented rice to which sugar, honey or other various condiments are sometimes added. It is normally served lukewarm without ice. Visitors can choose from 'strong' flavour of tuak (which is normally fermented for years), or 'mild' flavour (which is sometimes prepared only a week or even a day before). In [[Sabah]], cheap liquors are very widely available at most supermarkets and mini markets in the state. Other alcoholic drinks such as beer and whisky are also widely available. On the other hand, ''tuak'' in [[Kelantan]] also can be considered as a liquor since that it contains a trace amount of fermented ''nipah'' or sap juice. The alcohol content in Kelantan ''tuak'' can easily reach 50% after 3 days from the time it was extracted. [[File:Tapai peuyeum Pasar Baru.JPG|thumb|Cassava tapai is shown in plastic bags in the foreground]] ''Tapai'' consists of cassava (less often, rice) that is fermented and eaten as a food (though the liquid in the bottom can also be drunk). As it is commonly eaten during Hari Raya Puasa, the major Muslim holiday celebrating the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, it is interesting that Islamic legal authorities associated with the Islamist opposition Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) have given Muslims a special dispensation from laws against consuming alcohol, in the case of tapai. ===Water safety=== There are differences of opinion on the safety of Malaysian tap water. See [[#Stay healthy]]. == Sleep == Malaysia has ample affordable accommodations in all of its cities and towns, with full range from budget until luxury ones. Service charges and taxes are not yet part of the advertised price so be sure to add 16% to the listed price. Hotels and hostels are required to charge a '''tourism tax''' on international visitors: RM10 per room per night, which may not be included in the advertised rates. ===Budget=== Budget hotels and youth [[hostels]] are available in most cities and around most tourist destinations. As with most budget accommodations, some are more reliable than others. Be cautious when selecting budget accommodation to avoid places that house illegal vice activities. Larger cities will have YMCAs that are safe bets. Another noticeable budget hotel chain is [http://www.tunehotels.com Tune Hotels,] an affiliate of the budget airline, Air Asia. They are expanding and have hotels at numerous locations throughout the country ===Mid-range=== Mid-range hotels are readily available just about anywhere. Prices of 3–4 star hotels are upwards from RM100 and are generally reliable in terms of quality. ===Splurge=== Malaysia is home to some of the most affordable 5-star hotels, service apartments, and resorts in the world. They are found in larger cities like Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching and also in some coastal towns and areas. Also, almost all islands have upscale resorts and spas for the wealthy traveller. == Learn == Malaysia's universities are generally well-regarded and draw exchange students from near and far. Among Malaysia's universities, the undisputed most prestigious one is the '''[https://www.um.edu.my University of Malaya]''' (UM), located in Kuala Lumpur. In addition, several foreign universities have established campuses in Malaysia. == Work == Obtaining a working visa takes some effort. The easiest way to work in Malaysia is probably to work for an overseas company and get posted to Malaysia. The [https://www.imi.gov.my/ Malaysian Immigration Department website] has basic advice. In order to obtain a work permit, you need to have an offer from your future employer who will have to do the paperwork for you. It's very expensive and comes with many restrictions if a company wants to hire a foreigner and as such next to impossible. As stated above, a feasible way is to get transferred. Finding a job is otherwise unlikely unless you are married to a local and even then it remains difficult. Working days in [[Kelantan]], [[Terengganu]] and [[Kedah]] are from Sunday to Thursday, with Fridays and Saturdays being weekend holidays, similar to most Middle Eastern countries in alignment with Friday prayers of Muslims. The other states observe the normal weekend in the rest of the world. [[Johor]] adopts the Friday-Saturday weekend, though businesses may still stick to the normal week cycle to accommodate Singaporean practices. == Stay safe == {{infobox|Emergency numbers|Central emergency number '''999'''}} Though the crime rate is higher than in neighbouring Singapore, Malaysia is generally a safe country for visitors. Crimes towards tourists are usually restricted to bag-snatching, pickpocketing and petty theft. It is important to keep a close eye on valuable items. Theft is more common in crowded places, such as markets and on public transport. Generally, if you avoid deserted areas, get back to your hotel before midnight and use your common sense, you're unlikely to be assaulted. Homosexuality is a crime and gay bars may be raided by police; gay and lesbian tourists should be discreet and avoid any public displays of affection. ===Crime=== {{Cautionbox|Malaysia treats '''drug offences''' severely. With limited exceptions, the '''death penalty''' is possible for those convicted of trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting more than 15 g of heroin, 30 g of morphine, 30 g of cocaine, 500 g of cannabis, 200 g of cannabis resin and 1.2 kg of opium, and possession of these quantities is all that is needed for you to be convicted. If the death penalty is not imposed, lengthy imprisonment and mandatory whipping is still expected. Even if a person suspected of drug trafficking is acquitted, Malaysian authorities can still detain that person without any charges for 2 years. Unauthorised consumption can result in up to 10 years' jail, or a heavy fine, or both. You can be charged for unauthorised consumption as long as traces of illicit drugs are found in your system, even if you can prove that they were consumed outside the country and you can be charged for trafficking as long as drugs are found in bags that are in your possession or in your room, even if they aren't yours and regardless of whether you're aware of them - therefore be vigilant of your possessions.|lastedit=permanent}} There have been some reports of [[pickpockets]] and snatch-and-run thieves in some of the major cities like [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Petaling Jaya]] and [[Johor Bahru]]. As a general precaution, never carry your bags on the side facing the road and always walk facing the oncoming traffic. Additionally, walk a few feet deeper away from the roads. Women travellers should take extra precautions at night. Johor Bahru is known for having a relatively higher crime rate compared to the rest of Malaysia, and armed robberies and snatch thefts could happen at night in run-down areas of the city. Travel documents and valuables are best deposited in a hotel safe. In Malaysia, some crimes are punished with caning, known locally as whipping. Being convicted of rape, vandalism, illegal entry, bribery, overstaying your visa, and certain other crimes could get you caned. '''This is no slap on the wrist!''' Strokes from the thick rattan cane are ''very painful'', will take some time to heal and probably leave you with a permanent scar. Credit card fraud is a growing problem in this country, especially if you order in an on-line store during your stay. Use credit cards only in reputable shops. Look for online reviews but recognise that even these can be astroturfed to provide a higher average review than the company deserves. ===Corruption=== While not as bad as the likes of Thailand, Vietnam or Indonesia, corruption remains a significant issue in Malaysia. Traffic police have been known to pull over motorists to demand bribes of RM100-200; this tends to happen somewhat more often to those driving cars with Singapore licence plates. Nevertheless, there have been some crackdowns on this, and bribery is punishable by up to 20 years in jail. Anyone who tries to bribe public officials may be arrested on the spot and placed in a lock-up overnight to be charged for the offence in the morning. If this happens on a Friday or on eve of public holidays, you will find yourself spending a few nights in the lock-up as the courts are only open Monday to Friday. Do not let this dissuade you from requesting help — generally Malaysian police are helpful to tourists. Customs and immigration officers are comparatively cleaner than other Southeast Asian countries, though there have been isolated cases where tourists are demanded bribes from immigration officials. Do check your passport before driving off when entering by land from the Singapore border though, as immigration officers have been known to "forget" to stamp people in, and you will be subject to fines of several thousand ringgit for illegal entry when you try to leave Malaysia if your passport was not stamped on entry. * {{listing | name=Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) | alt=Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia(SPRM) | url=https://www.sprm.gov.my/ | email=info@sprm.gov.my | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1800-88-6000 | fax=+603-8870-0934 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6741935 | lastedit=2025-03-11 | content=The main anti-corruption agency for Malaysia. A list of MACC branches can be found [https://www.sprm.gov.my/index.php?id=21&page_id=75&articleid=430 here]. }} ===Traffic safety=== When on foot, be careful when crossing the street. Vehicles will often ignore pedestrian (zebra) crossings. In addition, reports of road rage during accidents are still common, so if you are involved in an accident be very careful when negotiating or dial 999 for help. ===Other=== Public demonstrations are uncommon in Malaysia due to police crackdowns. Should one occur it may be dealt with in a heavy-handed manner, so '''avoid them at all costs'''. It is generally not allowed for non-Muslims or non-Sunnis to proselytize. In particular, attempting to persuade Muslims to convert out of their religion is illegal, and if you are caught doing this, you will be expelled from the country or even face criminal responsibilities. ===Natural disasters=== Peninsular Malaysia is largely free from [[earthquakes]] as there are no nearby faultlines, though tremors can occasionally be felt in the upper storeys of tall buildings when a major quake occurs in neighbouring Indonesia. East Malaysia, on the other hand, especially the area around Mount Kinabalu, does experience occasional earthquakes (such as the fatal one occurring in 2015). [[Cyclones|Typhoons]] are also exceedingly rare, though one hit the southern part of [[Johor]] in 2001. However, the Nov-Jan monsoon season often results in flooding due to torrential rains, and landslides are known to occur, most notably on the East Coast. [[Tsunamis]] are a rare occurrence, though Penang and a few islands on the north of the West Coast were hit by the infamous tsunami in 2004. == Stay healthy == There are differences of opinion about whether and to what degree '''[[tap water]]''' is safe to drink. It is treated and monitored, but the condition of the pipes is not always reliable. Therefore, you may want to boil or filter it first just to be on the safe side, as most locals do. You can also buy bottled water, which is very inexpensive. Ice in drinks might be made from tap water, but nowadays, most restaurants and even roadside stalls use the cylindrical variety with a hollow tube down the middle that are mass-produced at ice factories and are safer to consume. Heat exhaustion is rare, but do consume lots of fluids, use a hat and sunscreen and shower often! Peninsular Malaysia is largely [[malaria]]-free, but there is a significant risk in Borneo especially in inland and rural areas. [[Dengue fever]] occurs throughout Malaysia in both urban and rural areas, and can be avoided only by preventing [[mosquito]] bites. The mosquito that transmits dengue feeds throughout the daytime, and is most active at dawn and dusk. If you experience a sudden fever with aches and lethargy, seek medical attention immediately. Aspirin and ibuprofen should not be used until dengue fever has been ruled out. Mosquito repellents (''ubat nyamuk'') are widely available. Be careful with mosquito coils, which can easily start fires: set them on a plate or other non-flammable surface and extinguish them before going to sleep. Haze from burning vegetation in neighbouring Indonesia may come and go without warning from the months of May to August so travellers with respiratory ailments should come prepared. Most public washrooms charge a small fee (generally between RM0.20-RM2.00, usually depending on the standard of the facilities), so keep some loose change to hand. If the condition of the sitting toilets is questionable, use the squatting toilets instead - both are usually available, and some believe that the latter are more hygienic and (if you can get used to them) are just as easy to use as sitting toilets. ===Healthcare=== [[File:Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital.JPG|thumb|Public hospital in [[Kuantan]], [[Pahang]]]] The standard of healthcare in Malaysia is generally high, and Malaysia is rapidly emerging as a popular destination for medical tourism, with treatment costs in general far cheaper than in neighbouring Singapore and Western countries. Almost all Malaysian doctors are able to speak English fluently, while most other medical staff are able to converse in at least basic English. Malaysia has a public and private health care system. Health services are adequate in large cities, with English-speaking doctors. Some staff have been trained abroad. In the private sector in particular, the medical staff is often made up of well-trained professionals. Outside urban areas, access to health services and the quality of care vary. Government healthcare facilities are cheap but good, though they tend to be understaffed and consequently, waiting times are long. Due to the shorter waiting times and sometimes hotel-like levels of comfort, most expatriates and visitors prefer to seek out private medical care. Dental services are readily available and prices are often lower than in western countries. However, root canal treatment is considerably more expensive than in western countries, as it is only performed by dental surgeons and not by ordinary dentists. Mental health services are available at least in the capital. In the rest of the country, they may not be available very much. Pharmacies can be found in larger shopping centres and painkillers are available in almost every shop. Prescription medicines may not be available from pharmacies at any time, but only when a pharmacist is present. He or she may be there for part of the day, usually on weekdays. When visiting a doctor, medicines are often available directly from the doctor's surgery or from the hospital pharmacy. When travelling to Malaysia, you should take out comprehensive travel insurance. Doctors and hospitals usually require payment in advance, especially for foreigners. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Keep all receipts and certificates you receive. You can apply for reimbursement afterwards from your insurance company. Services in the private sector are more expensive than in the public sector. You should check the details on the spot. Be vigilant when using private medical services. Doctors may prescribe expensive treatments, tests and medicines that are unnecessary. This is especially true for tourists. Malaysia's largest private healthcare groups are '''[https://www.parkwaypantai.com Parkway Pantai]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', which operates the well-known Gleaneagles and Pantai hospital chains, and '''[http://www.kpjhealth.com.my KPJ Healthcare]'''. Private medical costs can be high and having [[travel insurance]] is a very good idea. Public hospitals and most private hospitals offer 24-hour on-call medical services. In some Malaysian tourist resorts, you can ask for a doctor at the hotel reception. Pressure chamber treatment is available in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kuantan, Lumut, Ipoh, Sabah and Labuan. There is limited availability of rental equipment at hospitals. In most cases, assistive devices have to be purchased. ===Food=== While in general Malaysian food is not unhealthy, the fact that eateries and cafés add unnecessary amounts of sugar to drinks and snacks can be a problem. Also, the sheer amount of these places will always give you an opportunity to have an unhealthy snack or drink, no matter where you are. Be aware, and for example try to have your drinks without sugar, especially fruit shakes, which should come sweet naturally. == Respect == {{infobox|What's in a name?|*Malaysian '''Malay''' names are usually given name + ''bin'' or ''binti'' (son/daughter) + father's name. ''Mohammed bin Abdullah'' would usually be called Mohammed by his friends, and Mr. Mohammed for business. Sometimes, the person's given name appears after the Mohammed or Abdul (example: ''Mohammed Faizal bin Abdul Nasser'') so, in such a case, he would usually be addressed as Mr. Faizal.<br /> *'''Chinese''' place their family name first, so ''Tan Ah Heng'' is Mr Tan for business and Ah Heng to his friends. Many have Western names, so he may also be known as ''John Tan''.<br> *'''Indian''' names are complex, but the south Indian (Tamil) names usually found in Malaysia have two patterns: either given name + ''a/l'' or ''a/p'' (''anak lelaki'' (son of)/''anak perempuan'' (daughter of)) + father's name, or father's initial + given name. Given names are often long and may be abbreviated, so ''Thirumurugan a/l Govindasamy'' may just be addressed as Thiru by his friends and Mr Thiru for business.<br /> *'''Other ethnic minorities''', such as the Iban and Kadazan have their own naming conventions. The foolproof method, therefore, is to ''ask'' how the person would like to be addressed.}} When entering a home or a place of worship, always take off your shoes (this is often required at hostels too). Also, never eat with your left hand or give a gift with your left hand, and never point with your forefinger (you may use a closed fist with the thumb instead). Do not point with your feet or touch a person's head either. Swastikas are commonly seen in Hindu and Buddhist temples, and are regarded as a religious symbol by these communities. They emphatically do '''not''' represent Nazism or anti-Semitism. ===Politics=== As in many countries, it is best not to criticise the government or the Malaysian royal families as a visitor. You may hear Malaysians criticise their own government, but you do not need to take sides; just listen and feel free to talk about your feelings about your own government. The '''bumiputera''' policy (laws granting ethnic Malays special rights not granted to the other races) is a very polarising and sensitive issue, and best avoided as a conversation topic with Malays. Another sensitive issue to be aware of is Israel: Malaysia is one of several countries that do not recognize Israel, and Malaysian Muslims are ardent in their support for Palestine. In addition, many Malaysians associate Jews in general with Israel or otherwise have prejudices against Jews; however, these feelings do not necessarily extend to individual Jewish people, and violence against Jewish visitors is unlikely. ===Dress=== It is advisable to dress respectfully, particularly in rural areas (wearing trousers or a long skirt, not shorts and covering your shoulders is recommended but not essential). In more cosmopolitan cities such as Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Malacca, Ipoh and Johor Bahru, as well as East Malaysian states (Sabah and Sarawak) attitudes are more liberal. Women are not legally required to wear the hijab, known locally as the ''tudung'', except when entering mosques, where it is required for both Muslims and non-Muslims. ===Sexuality=== As a predominantly Muslim country, Malaysia tends to be conservative about sexuality. Public showing of affection in the more diverse, larger cities is tolerated but might invite unnecessary attention from the public. In more rural areas and in very conservative states like [[Kelantan]] and [[Terengganu]] on the East Coast of the Peninsula it is frowned upon and is best avoided. '''Don't kiss your partner in public'''; you'll inflame local sensibilities. Big cities like Kuala Lumpur have a fairly active gay scene and gay bashing is rarely heard of. However, same-sex relationships are a taboo subject and "carnal intercourse against the order of nature" is punished by up to 20 years jail and whipping (men only) under colonial era laws not usually enforced against consenting adult heterosexuals. Different states may also impose '''consecutive''' sharia law punishments of up to 3 years and six lashes against Muslims of all genders. ==Cope== ===Electricity=== Malaysian sockets are designed for the 3-pin rectangular-pronged British plug. Electricity is delivered at 240 V, 50 Hz. ===Newspapers=== Malaysia's main Malay newspapers are ''[http://www.bharian.com.my Berita Harian]'' and ''[http://www.utusan.com.my Utusan Malaysia]''. There are also numerous Chinese newspapers, the most popular ones being the ''[http://www.chinapress.com.my China Press]'' (中國報), ''[http://www.enanyang.my Nanyang Siang Pau]'' (南洋商報) and ''[http://www.sinchew.com.my Sin Chew Daily]'' (星洲日報), as well as several Tamil newspapers. Malaysia's English-language paper of record is the '''''[https://www.nst.com.my New Straits Times]''''', a splinter from the Singaporean Straits Times, which is available at most hotels and newsstands. '''''[https://www.thestar.com.my The Star]''''' and '''''[https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/ Free Malaysia Today]''''', an English-Malay bilingual online newspaper, are also available. ==Connect== === Internet === Broadband Internet is available for free in most accommodations and some restaurants, especially fast-food outlets and shopping malls, including Starbucks and Coffeebean, some McDonald's and Subway. However, not every restaurant has WiFi, especially smaller ones. Southasian restaurants have WiFi more often. Cybercafés are a thing of the past, since nowadays most people have mobile data. === Mobile and data === Malaysia was one of the first countries in the world to offer 4G connectivity. There are a lot of providers, which usually offer good coverage. The easiest SIM to get is U-mobile, from RM10, with ok-ish coverage and a 30-day package of "unlimited" or 40GB internet for RM35 or RM25 per month respectively (2025). SIMs are available in every 7-11 and in some other places. There are also other SIM cards (RM10) available in some cheaper malls and Pakistani places which have 50GB packages for RM18. If you travel to Singapore or other neighboring countries, you can buy a 14-day "unlimited" package for RM35 (Feb 2024), which works in all of them including Malaysia. Other providers have better coverage but don't offer worthwhile roaming options. === Telephone numbers === The country code for Malaysia is +60. [[File:Sandakan Sabah Public-Phone-Booths-01.jpg|thumb|Phone booths in Sabah]] [[Telephone service|To call]] a Malaysian number from abroad * '''from overseas except Singapore''' dial the international access code, the country code for Malaysia, the area or mobile operator code without the "0", and then the phone number (for 123-4567 in Kuala Lumpur, in Wikivoyage written as +60 3 123-4567, dial {{nowrap|+60 3 123 45467);}} * '''from Singapore''', dial 02, the area or mobile operator code with the "0", and then the phone number {{nowrap|(02 03 123 45467).}} To domestically call a Malaysian number, * from a mobile phone or a landline phone '''outside the local area''', dial the area or mobile operator code, including the leading "0", followed by the phone number (03 123 4567), * from '''within the local area''' just dial the phone number without any code; '''from mobile phones''', you can always include the area or operator code, although it is unnecessary between phones with the same operator (where you are is immaterial with mobile phones). '''To call a foreign number''' not in Singapore from Malaysia, use the international dialling prefix '''00''' (on mobile phones: "+"). For Singapore, instead use the pseudo area code 02 and leave out the international prefix and country code. On the Maxis network, take advantage of 50% IDD rates on international calls via IDD132. This doesn't require any registration: just dial "132" prior to the "00" (don't use "+"). Malaysia also has four '''mobile telephone''' service providers, [http://www.maxis.com.my Maxis], [http://www.digi.com.my DiGi], [http://www.celcom.com.my Celcom], and [http://www.u.com.my U Mobile] which utilise codes '''012''', '''013''', '''014''', '''016''', '''017''', '''018''', '''019''', used like area codes. Network connection in Malaysia is excellent. Mobile number portability has been implemented, meaning a code like 012 that traditionally belonged to Maxis, can now be a DiGi subscriber. Mobile networks utilize the GSM 900 and 1800 systems. 3G (WCDMA), EDGE and HSPDA networks are available in larger towns. International roaming onto these networks is possible if your operator allows it. '''Prepaid SIM cards''' for sale at airports are pretty affordable; a one-week SIM card with a good amount of data might cost about RM20-30 (2019). See also [[#SIM cards|SIM cards]] above. Malaysian '''landline telephone numbers''' have either seven or eight digits. The country is divided into areas which have been assigned two- or three-digit area codes, which have to be dialled when calling from outside the area (or from a mobile phone). The area codes are: * '''03''' — Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor (all are Klang Valley), Pahang (Genting Highlands only) * '''04''' — Kedah, Penang, Perlis * '''05''' — Perak, Pahang (Cameron Highlands only) * '''06''' — Malacca, Johor (Muar district only), Negeri Sembilan * '''07''' — Johor (all districts except for Muar) * '''082''' — Sarawak (Kuching and Samarahan districts) * '''083''' — Sarawak (Sri Aman and Betong districts) * '''084''' — Sarawak (Sarikei, Sibu and west Kapit districts) * '''085''' — Sarawak (Miri and Limbang districts) * '''086''' — Sarawak (Bintulu districts and Belaga) * '''087''' — Sabah (Interior Division), Labuan * '''088''' — Sabah (West Coast and Kudat Division) * '''089''' — Sabah (Sandakan and Tawau Division) * '''09''' — Kelantan, Pahang (all districts except Genting Highlands), Terengganu === Postal services === [[File:Pos Malaysia Arau Post Office.jpg|thumb|Post office in [[Arau]], [[Perlis]]]] Postage stamps for postcards internationally is just 0,9 RM (as of February 2024) Many international courier services, such as Fedex, DHL and UPS, are available in towns and cities, but the main postal service provider is [http://www.pos.com.my Pos Malaysia] which reliably provides postal services to most countries in the world. Postage rates in Malaysia are cheap. Much cheaper than Thailand, Singapore or Vietnam, and surface post is available as well. The mail is reliable and trustworthy. When posting a parcel, do not seal the box. This is to allow for inspection in case illegal items are posted this way (ask for help at the post office if needed). A local alternative to the international courier companies mentioned above is the Pos Laju, which provides just as reliable a service at a fraction of the cost! Non-urgent letters and postcards can be dropped in postboxes inside post offices or red postboxes found outside post offices and along main roads. If there are two slots in a postbox use the one that says "lain lain" for international post. Post offices are open M–Sa 8AM–5PM except public holidays, although a few in Klang Valley stay open until 10PM. In the states of Kedah, Kelantan, Johor and Terengganu they are closed on Fridays and public holidays. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|3|108|zoom=6}} l4qqsyg9a638xhpthadldgpp3l2sgzo 0 20986 5091284 5088775 2025-07-11T09:59:19Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091284 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Maldives banner Small island shoreline with beach.jpg}} The '''Maldives''' ([[Dhivehi phrasebook|Dhivehi]]: ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ ''Dhivehi Raajje'') are an archipelago in the [[Islands of the Indian Ocean|Indian Ocean]] with picture-perfect beaches, strikingly blue water, and luxury resorts. There are 200 inhabited islands and 165 islands with tourist resorts. Just under the surface of the beautiful blue ocean, there's a wealth of wildlife to see: over 2000 species of fish in all colours of the rainbow roam the clear waters around the islands. ==Regions== The Maldives are an archipelago of 1,192 coral islands formed of 26 atolls, or ''atholhu'' in Dhivehi &mdash; the source of the English word. These are not single islands, but giant ringlike coral formations hundreds of kilometres wide that have fragmented into countless islands. Atoll naming is complex, as the atolls have both lengthy traditional Dhivehi names like ''Maalhosmadulu Dhekunuburi'', and snappy code names like ''Baa'' that refers to administrative regions and may consist of more than one geographical atoll. The code names are the letters of Dhivehi alphabet, but being easier for non-Maldivians to remember and pronounce, the code names are popular in the travel industry and are hence also used here. Of the 21 administrative atoll groups, only (parts of) 10 are open to tourism, and from north to south these are: {{Regionlist | regionmap=Maldives regions map.png | regionmaptext=The twenty atolls of the Maldives | regionmapsize=160px | region1name=[[Lhaviyani]] | region1color=#a9d5c9 | region1items=Miladhunmadulu Uthuruburi | region1description= | region2name=[[Raa]] | region2color=#bab4c8 | region2items=Maalhosmadulu Uthuruburi | region2description= | region3name=[[Baa]] | region3color=#e8e5ba | region3items=Maalhosmadulu Dhekunuburi | region3description= | region4name=[[Kaafu]] | region4color=#d6d1e5 | region4items=North and South Malé Atoll | region4description=Site of the capital [[Malé]] and the airport, home of most Maldivian resorts. | region5name=[[Alifu]] | region5color=#a7e0e3 | region5items=Ari | region5description=To the west of Kaafu, the second most popular group. | region6name=[[Vaavu]] | region6color=#aae4b2 | region6items=Felidhu | region6description= | region7name=[[Meemu]] | region7color=#d5b7b7 | region7items=Mulak | region7description= | region8name=[[Faafu]] | region8color=#a3c9d6 | region8items=Nilandhe Atholhu Uthuruburi | region8description= | region9name=[[Dhaalu]] | region9color=#e2f2a4 | region9items=Nilandhe Atholhu Dhekunuburi | region9description= | region10name=[[Seenu]] | region10color=#8da8e6 | region10items=Addu | region10description=The southernmost atoll, the second-largest in population and site of Gan International Airport.}} The other atolls are Gaafu Alifu, Gaafu Dhaalu, Gnaviyani, Haa Alifu, Noonu, Haa Dhaalu, Laamu, Njyavinani, Shaviyani and Thaa. ==Cities== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Malé]]|wikidata=Q9347}} &mdash; the capital and by far the largest city, crammed onto a small island and by some measures the world's densest city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Addu]]|wikidata=Q4681407}} &mdash; the Maldives' second city in the far south of the archipelago, the former capital of the short-lived United Suvadive Republic * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Fuvahmulah]]|wikidata=Q2060910}} &mdash; just north of Addu, well off the beaten track * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kulhudhuffushi]]|wikidata=Q3185775}} &mdash; largest city in the northern Maldives ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Kuredu ]]|wikidata=Q4176474}} &mdash; one of the inhabited islands of [[Lhaviyani]] Atoll * {{marker|name=[[Mathiveri]]|wikidata=Q1920590}} &mdash; island belonging to [[Ari|North Ari Atoll]] * {{marker|name=[[Rasdhoo|Rasdhoo]]|wikidata=Q2053471}} &mdash; smallish inhabited island and the capital of the North Ari Atoll * {{marker|name=[[Thoddoo]]|wikidata=Q3040414}} &mdash; an isolated inhabited island that administratively belongs to [[Ari|North Ari Atoll]]. It's also the largest producer of watermelon in Maldives. * {{marker|name=[[Ukulhas]]|wikidata=Q4177376}} &mdash; smallish 1 km long island of Alif Alif Atoll ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMaldives.png}} ===History=== The heritage of the Maldives is told in legends, in records of old copperplates, coral-carved ancient scripts and echoes of traditional culture. The story tallies in known South Asian history with mentions of the great Mauryan ruler Emperor Ashoka. After being a Sultanate under Dutch and British protection, the Maldives gained independence from the British in 1965 and became a republic in 1968. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom ruled over the country with an iron fist and did not hesitate to jail dissidents. He was re-elected five times in more or less rigged elections. Resistance to his rule culminated in violent rioting in 2003 and 2004. Much to everybody's surprise, free and fair elections were held in 2008, and Maumoon conceded defeat to opposition leader Mohamed Nasheed, "Anni". By December 2011, though, the tables had turned. Most of Nasheed's allies had left his government and there were increasingly large anti-government protests. Nasheed resigned in 2012 under murky circumstances and then lost a controversial 2013 election to Maumoon's half-brother Abdulla Yameen, whose administration has cracked down on political freedom and imprisoned opposition figures. During his rule, Yameen withdrew the Maldives from the Commonwealth, and pivoted his foreign policy away from Maldives' traditional ally, India, to align more closely with China in exchange for Chinese investments. In the 2018 election, Yameen was defeated by opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Despite fears that he would refuse to step down, Yameen publicly conceded the election shortly after, and handed power peacefully to his successor on 17th November 2018. Under Solih, the Maldives re-joined the Commonwealth in 2020, and has largely pivoted Maldives' policy back to India, though it has continued to maintain cordial ties with China. [[File:Male-total.jpg|thumb|258x258px|The entirety of [[Malé]].]] The tsunami of 26 December 2004 caused extensive damage to the Maldives - of a population of only 290,000, over a third was directly affected by the tsunami and more than 15,000 people were left homeless. The economic damage alone was over 62% of the GDP or US$470 million. The immediate response from international donors and agencies mobilized more than US$400 million in aid after the disaster, much of which was used to help misplaced persons rebuild their homes and infrastructure damaged by the waves. ===Economy=== Tourism, Maldives largest industry, accounts for 28% of GDP and more than 60% of the Maldives' foreign exchange receipts. Over 90% of government tax revenue comes from import duties and tourism-related taxes. Over 1.7 million tourists visited the islands in 2019. Fishing is the second leading sector. The Maldivian government began an economic reform program in 1989 by lifting import quotas and opening some exports to the private sector. Subsequently, it has liberalized regulations to allow more foreign investment. Agriculture and manufacturing continue to play a minor role in the economy, constrained by the limited availability of cultivable land and the shortage of domestic labour. Most staple foods must be imported. Industry, which consists mainly of shipping, boat building and handicrafts, accounts for about 18% of GDP. Maldivian authorities worry about the impact of erosion and global warming on their low-lying country; 80% of the area is one metre or less above sea level. ===Culture=== Maldivians are entirely Sunni Muslim, and the local culture is a mixture of Sinhalese, South Indian and Arab influences. While alcohol, pork, dogs and public observance of non-Muslim religions are banned on the inhabited islands, the resorts are allowed to exist in a bubble where almost anything goes. Note that the weekend in the Maldives runs from Friday to Saturday, during which banks, government offices and many shops are closed. You won't notice this at the resorts though, except that lunch hours may be shifted for Friday prayers. [[File:Bathala (Maldives) 6.jpg|thumb|The view of Bathala from a boat.]] ===Climate=== The Maldives are tropical, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures around 26.4°C (79.52°F) to 31.5°C (88.7°F) throughout the year. However, rainfall increases considerably during the April-October southwest monsoon, particularly from June to November. ===Read=== * ''The Maldives: Islamic Republic, Tropical Autocracy'' by J. J. Robinson, a journalist who lived in the Maldives through some of its 21st-century political turmoil. In addition to an interesting look at what life is like for foreigners in Malé and for staff behind the scenes at the resorts, the book gives a detailed and surprisingly readable account of the complex political crises that the country experienced between 2008 and 2015. ===Official tourist guide to Maldives=== * [https://visitmaldives.com/ Visit Maldives] website ==Talk== {{Seealso|Dhivehi phrasebook}} Maldivian ('''Dhivehi'''), a close relative of [[Sinhala phrasebook|Sinhala]] (spoken in Sri Lanka) but with borrowings from Urdu, Hindi, Arabic and many other languages, is the official and national language. It is written in a remarkable hybrid script called ''Thaana'', which uses Arabic and Indic numbers as the base of the alphabet, written from right to left with Arabic vowel signs. The script is thought to have originated as a secret code for writing magical formulas so that outsiders can't read them, which would also explain why the ordering of the alphabet is, as far as linguists can tell, random. English is widely spoken, particularly by government officials and those working in the tourism industry. English is also the language of instruction in schools. "House reef" describes a coral reef accessible from the beach or jetty, thus you may hear discussions about whether an island has a good house reef or not. Since the Maldives are a popular destination for German and Italian holidaymakers, a sizeable number of local resort workers speak German and Italian. This may vary depending between resorts. ==Get in== ===Entry requirements=== {{VisaRestriction|Israeli citizens are '''banned''' from entering Maldives.|lastedit=2024-06-03}} The Maldives have a remarkably easy visa policy: ''Everybody'' gets a free 30-day visa on arrival, provided that they have a passport valid for a minimum period of 1 month from the date of entry, a return journey confirmed ticket and entry requirements to the onward destinations, a prepaid confirmed hotel booking at a registered hotel or proof of financial means for sufficient funds to support the stay in Maldives (US$100 + $50 per day). See the [https://immigration.gov.mv/tourist-visa/ Maldives Immigration website] for details. Traveller Declaration form must be filled in and submitted by all foreigners arriving to the Maldives, within 96 hours (4 days) to the flight time. The form has to be submitted electronically via [http://imuga.immigration.gov.mv/ IMUGA]. Importing explosives, weapons, firearms, ammunition, pornographic material, materials deemed contrary to Islam including ‘idols for worship’ and bibles, pork and pork products, and alcohol into the Maldives is forbidden and all luggage is X-rayed on arrival. ''Exporting sand, seashells or coral'' is forbidden. '''All dogs are banned''' from the Maldives. See the [https://www.customs.gov.mv/Individuals/Items%20for%20Personal%20Use/Individual-Prohibited-and-Restricted-Items-for-Import Maldives Customs Service website]{{Dead link|February 2023|September 2024|bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for details. ===By plane=== [[File:Male Airport 2010.jpg|thumb|Male international airport]] Practically all visitors arrive at [https://macl.aero/ '''Velana International Airport''']{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ({{IATA|MLE}}), on Hulhulé Island next to the capital city [[Malé]]. The airport is served by a wide array of flights from [[China]], [[India]], [[Sri Lanka]], [[Dubai]], major airports in [[South-East Asia]], and charters from Europe. Many flights stop in [[Colombo]] (Sri Lanka) on the way. If you want to get an amazing aerial view of the islands, try to get a seat on the left side of the flight. British Airways flies directly from London Gatwick to Malé during the winter (October to March). No direct flights operate from London Heathrow, however, it is possible to get an indirect flight via India or the UAE for example. Singapore Airlines flies daily direct from Singapore to Malé, with late night timings. '''Gan Airport''' ({{IATA|GAN}}), on the southern atoll of [[Addu]], serves a few international flights. Departure taxes are included in your ticket. ===By boat=== There are no regular passenger boats to the Maldives. Even yachts usually steer clear, as navigating around the reefs is hazardous and permits are expensive. '''Dogs''' are banned from the Maldives. Even if they remain on your boat the authorities can be ''extremely'' sketchy about this compromise, and this can put the life of your dog at risk, should the officials you are dealing with not be sympathetic to your situation. Be sensible and do ''not'' bring them into any Maldivian port. ==Get around== [[File:Ile de Kani - Atoll de Malé Nord.jpg|thumb|Ferry next to Kani island]] There are four main ways of getting around in the Maldives: '''domestic flight''', '''boat''', '''seaplane''' and '''private yacht''' (liveaboard). The boats are the Maldivian equivalent of a car, while seaplanes and private yachts (liveaboards) are mainly reserved for tourists. Seaplanes prefer not to operate at night, so if you arrive at the airport after dark and are going to a distant resort, you may have to spend the night in [[Malé]], Hulhumalé or at the airport hotel in [[Hulhulé]]. Private transfers, though expensive can be opted for resort transfers, instead of spending the whole night at Malé City. Private transfers could cost US$500-800. On the way back, there may also be a significant gap between the time your transfer arrives and your flight departure. Check with your resort or travel agent. ===By plane=== No point in the Maldives is more than 90 minutes away by plane from [[Malé]], and visitors to the more far-flung resorts use air taxi services. There are four main operators: '''[https://mantaair.mv/ Manta Air]''', '''[https://villaair.aero/ Villa Air]''' operates scheduled flights from Malé to Maamigili and Dharavandhoo, '''[https://www.transmaldivian.com/ Trans Maldivian Airways]''' which flies DHC-6 Twin Otter seaplanes that take around 15 passengers. The company schedules most planes at 6PM the previous day. Delays are frequent, it is not rare to wait for 5 hours in the TMA lounge. Seaplane scheduled in the evening has a high risk of being cancelled as delays add up and the sky becomes darker, in such cases TMA will make you take a combination of domestic flight and boat, potentially making you reach your destination well after dinner time. Scheduled inter-island services are provided by '''[https://maldivian.aero/ Maldivian]''', which flies from [[Malé]] to [[Gan]], Maafaru, Thimarafushi, Dharavandhoo, Funadhoo, Fuvahmulah, Hanimaadhoo, Ifuru, Kaadedhdhoo, Kadhdhoo, kooddoo, Kudahuvadhoo, Maavarulu, Faresmathoda, Hoarafushi, Madivaru and Kulhudhuffushi. Travel permits are no longer required. ===By boat=== The taxi boats generally take tourists to and from the islands in the North and South Malé atolls. They come in all different shapes and sizes depending on the quality of the resort you stay, and the Four Seasons has a large enclosed motor cruiser with drinks and food, while the lesser resorts have open-sided ''dhoni'' fishing boats. Public ''dhoni'' ferries and cargo boats are available for more the independent-minded and budget-conscious. The main operator is [http://www.mtcc.com.mv/content/comprehensive-transport-network MTCC], who list schedules and fares on their website. The previous system of requiring written invitations and Inter Atoll Travelling Permits (IATP) for those wishing to visit other islands has been abolished; you're now free to travel wherever you wish. IATPs are still required if you wish to dock your own yacht, see [https://www.customs.gov.mv/ Customs] for details. ===By bus=== There are a number of bus routes around the capital including those which connects with the airport. They are run by [https://rtl.mv/#/busticket RTL]. ==See== [[File:Muliaage presidential residence of maldives.jpg|thumb|Presidential residence in Malé]] Most visitors come to enjoy the countless plush resorts, excellent beaches and stunningly colourful '''underwater life'''. Due to the isolated position of the island, the number of animals on land is limited, but the ocean has a wealth of wildlife. You will likely see plenty of anemones, different kinds of rays, octopus, squid and even giant clams. Whales, dolphins and turtles are spotted often. The '''Baa Atoll''', named a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2011 and one of the richest coral reefs in the world is becoming the main tourist draw while also becoming an example of sustainable tourism in a protected area. In short; snorkelling or diving is an absolute must, see the Do-section below for more information. The gorgeous and ubiquitous '''white sand beaches''' are a sight by themselves, especially with the tropical island setting they are in. A flight to one of the many resort islands gives spectacular aerial views of these picture-perfect islets, defined by rims of white sand and wide strokes of cobalt blue water. Yet, if you can pull yourself away from your luxury holiday spot, the capital city '''[[Malé]]''' might be an interesting diversion. The bustling financial and political centre of the country has a few sights. Try the '''National Museum''' for a touch of history. While the building may not look too promising, the museum's fine collection includes beautiful Arabic and Thaana engraved woodworks, religious pieces, weaponry and other historic artefacts. The town also has a number of worthwhile mosques. The 17th-century '''Old Friday Mosque''' is the oldest one in the country, and officials are often willing to let polite and properly dressed visitors in. The '''Grand Friday Mosque & Islamic Centre''' is its 1984 modern counterpart, and dominates the city's skyline. While simple in design, the large, white marble structure and the shining gold dome is an attractive sight. ==Do== [[File:Surgeonfish Powderblue.JPG|thumb|Powderblue surgeonfish, one of the most common reef fish in the Maldives]] ===Diving and snorkelling=== {{main topic|Diving in the Maldives}} Aside from making the water bungalow rock on your honeymoon, the primary activity on the Maldives is [[scuba diving]]. The atolls are all coral reefs hundreds of kilometres away from any major landmass, meaning that water clarity is excellent and underwater life is abundant. Manta rays, sharks, even a few wrecks, you name it, you can find it in the Maldives. While diving is very good by world standards even in the immediate vicinity of Malé, visibility and the chance of encountering large pelagic fish increases as you head to the outer atolls. Many divers opt for live-aboards, which can work out much cheaper than paying high resort fees. Currents vary considerably, with generally little inside the atolls but some powerful streams to be found on the sides facing the open sea. Water in the Maldives is warm throughout the year and a 3 mm shorty or Lycra dive skin is sufficient. Diving is possible throughout the year, but rain, wind and waves are most common during the season of the southwest monsoon (June-November). The best time for scuba diving is from January to April when the sea is calm, the sun is shining and the visibility can reach 30 m. There are decompression chambers on Bandos in [[Kaafu]] (15 min from Malé), Kuredu in Lhaviyani Atoll and at Kuramathi on [[Alifu]]. The one downside to diving in the Maldives is that it's quite expensive by Asian standards. Prices vary considerably from resort to resort, with specialist dive resorts offering better prices. In general, a single boat dive with your own gear cost around US$50, and US$75 without. Beware of surcharges: you may be charged extra for boat use, guided dives, larger tanks, etc. On the upside, safety standards are usually very high, with well-maintained gear and strict adherence to protocol (check dives, maximum depth, computer use, etc.) being the rule rather than the exception. [[Baa|Hanifaru Bay]] is a protected biosphere by UNESCO and is famous for some of the largest congregations of manta rays on the planet. ===Surfing=== The Maldives is becoming an increasingly popular surfing destination. Turquoise water and perfect waves make it an ideal and uncrowded destination for surfers looking for smooth surfing conditions. [[File:Picasso triggerfish2.jpg|thumb|Scuba diving is a popular activity in the Maldives.]] The best period for surfing in the Maldives is between March and October; the biggest waves occurring in June, July and August. This paradise is exposed to the same swells as Indonesia is, except that its higher latitude and its South-East exposure offers cooler and less hardcore surfing. The O’Neil Deep Blue Contests held in the Maldives have placed Maldives firmly on the world’s surf map. While most of the recognized surf breaks are in Malé Atoll, there is certainly more to be discovered. Specialized companies organize tailored multi-day boat trips in the region, allowing surfers to move easily from one point to another and maximizing the surfing time. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Maldivian rufiyaa | currencyCode=Rf | date=January 2025 | USD=15 | EUR=18 | GBP=19 | INR=18 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mvr-maldivian-rufiyaa XE.com] }} The local currency is the '''Maldivian rufiyaa''', denoted by the symbol "'''Rf'''" or '''"MRF"''' (ISO code: '''MVR'''). It is divided into 100 laari. However by law, resorts price services in US dollars and require payment in hard currency (or credit card), so there's no need to change money if you're going to spend all your time at the resorts. Most hotels have a shop but this is limited to diving and holiday essentials (sun cream, sarongs, disposable cameras, etc.) Some excursions from resorts will take you to local islands where there are handicraft type things to buy, but they are typically made outside the Maldives and sold at significant markups. Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25 and 50 laari, 1 and 2 rufiyaa. Banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 rufiyaa. The current series of rufiyaa banknotes is printed entirely on polymer. If you are heading to Malé City or the other inhabited atolls, exchanging some rufiyaa will come in handy. The coins, in particular, are quite attractive and make an interesting souvenir in themselves, but the smaller denominations are rarely used or seen. The rufiyaa is tied to the US dollar within a 20% band but is practically 15:1. US dollars are near-universally accepted: shops usually exchange them at 15:1 or 10:1. Maldivian rufiyaa can be changed at Bank of Maldives in the arrival area of airport. If you want to change rufiyaa back to your currency before departure, you need to keep the receipt. After check in, at Bank of Maldives in the departure area of airport, you can change rufiyaa back to the currency you previously changed to rufiyaa, not exceeding the amount listed on the receipt. The Bank of Maldives may not have small notes of your original currency though. ===Tipping=== Tipping is not compulsory in the Maldives as a 10% service charge is added to everything, although it is not certain that the money is passed on to the staff. Over the years the tipping culture has changed in the Maldives, mainly due to overseas visitors giving varying amounts of cash as tips. ===Costs=== Maldives is expensive for those who have comfort and service-oriented tourism in mind. Resorts have a monopoly on services for their guests and charge accordingly: for mid-range resorts, US$1000 per week per couple is a ''conservative'' budget for meals, drinks and excursions, in addition to the cost of flights and accommodation. Practically anything, including hotel rooms if booked locally, has a 10% "service charge" added, but tips are expected on top. For an adventurous traveller who has time, Maldives can be a very affordable and rewarding experience, with prices comparable to Malaysia. A number of inhabited islands have guesthouses with typical prices €25-40 per room. On more remote islands, renting rooms in villages is possible at even less. Food is inexpensive, and fish curries are delicious. Public ferries will transfer you between different islands of the same atoll for a few US dollars (though for less obvious locations, there will typically be 1 ferry per day and no ferries on Fridays). For transfers to remote atolls, one can negotiate with cargo boats, which would often take people for €14-38, depending on the destination. Cargo boats do not have schedules and depart when loaded. One may expect 1 boat in 1-3 days for each atoll. It is important to have in mind that staying on inhabited islands implies respecting the strict Muslim norms including no alcohol, modest dress, reserved behaviour. However, the locals are very welcoming and the experience may be much deeper and more rewarding than staying in resorts. ==Eat== All the resorts are self-contained so they have at least one restaurant, which generally serves the type of cuisine expected by their guests (i.e. modern European or generic Asian). Breakfast is almost always included, and most resorts offer the option of '''half-board''', which means you get a dinner buffet, and '''full board''', which means you get a lunch and dinner buffet. These can limit the damage compared to ordering a la carte, but your options are typically very limited and drinks are often not covered, not necessarily even water. If you're planning on drinking a lot, it may be worthwhile to go '''all inclusive''', but even this typically restricts you to house drinks. The only other place to find food is [[Malé|Malé City]]. This comes in two forms. Either small restaurants aimed at the tourists (of which there are a couple of nice Thai restaurants), which are often expensive, or small cafes called ''hotaa'', selling local Maldivian food at prices as low as Rf20 (US$6) for a complete meal. ===Maldivian cuisine=== [[File:Meal Maldives.JPG|thumb|A typical Maldivian meal: ''masroshi'' pastries, ''mas riha'' fish curry, ''paaparu'', grilled fish, rice and sweet black tea.]] Maldivian food revolves largely around '''fish''' (''mas''), in particular '''tuna''' (''kandu mas''), and draws heavily from South Indian tradition, especially [[Kerala]]. Dishes are often hot, spicy and flavoured with coconut, but use very few vegetables. A traditional meal consists of rice, a clear fish broth called ''garudhiya'' and side dishes of lime, chilli and onions. Curries known as ''riha'' are also popular and the rice is often supplemented with ''roshi'', unleavened bread akin to Indian ''roti'', and ''paaparu'', the Maldivian version of crispy Indian poppadums. Some other common dishes include: * ''mas huni'' &mdash; shredded smoked fish with grated coconuts and onions, the most common Maldivian breakfast (eat it as is or wrap it in ''roshi'') * ''fihunu mas'' &mdash; barbequed fish basted with chili * ''bambukeylu hiti'' &mdash; breadfruit curry Snacks called ''hedhikaa'', almost invariably fish-based and deep-fried, can be found in any Maldivian restaurant. * ''bajiya'' &mdash; pastry stuffed with fish, coconut and onions * ''gulha'' &mdash; pastry balls stuffed with smoked fish * ''keemia'' &mdash; deep-fried fish rolls * ''kulhi borkibaa'' &mdash; spicy fish cake * ''masroshi'' &mdash; ''mas huni'' wrapped in ''roshi'' bread and baked * ''theluli mas'' &mdash; fried fish with chilli and garlic ==Drink== As the Maldives is a Muslim country, alcohol is banned from the local population, as is with the importation of such products. At Velana International Airport, customs scan baggage through x-ray screening and will confiscate any bottles of alcohol they find. They will then issue a customs receipt, which you must carry with you at all times in order to reclaim your bottles before you leave the Maldives. However, nearly all resorts, live-aboard boats and the ''[[Hulhulé]] Island Hotel'' (on the same island as the airport) are licensed to serve it, usually with a steep markup. Tap water in resorts may or may not be drinkable: check with the management. Bottled water is extortionately priced, with US$5/bottle being typical. ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under US$100|US$100-300|Over US$300}} The Maldives had a longstanding policy of keeping tourists on dedicated islands, which meant they could only stay in full-service resorts where the cost of a night's accommodation started around US$200 and went up into the stratosphere, and the vast majority of visitors continue to opt for these. However, from 2008 all the islands were opened to tourism, and backpacker-friendly guesthouses starting from US$30 a night opened on inhabited islands across the archipelago. ===Resorts=== Most resorts take up their own island (1500 x 1500m to 250 x 250m), meaning that the ratio of beach to guests must be one of the best in the world and it is hard to imagine that you would ever have to struggle to find your own private piece of beach to relax on. Many have a "no shoes" policy and with such soft sands, it is easy to love this idea. The range and themes or the resorts are impressive, and most people will find one they like. They can be grouped into three types: * '''Dive resorts''', designed primarily for divers. Geared expressly for people who want to spend most of their time underwater, facilities on land are limited, but the house reef is usually excellent. Often found in the more far-flung parts of the archipelago. * '''Holiday resorts''', designed primarily for families. These are large and have a full complement of facilities (several restaurants, day-care centres, etc.), but don't have the over-the-top luxury and have less privacy. Most of these are located on [[Kaafu]], with easy access from Malé City. * '''Luxury resorts''', designed primarily for honeymooners and the jet set. The place to be if you want designer furniture, gourmet food and a plasma TV in an overwater villa reachable only by rowboat, and are willing to pay high prices for the privilege. [[File:Thulhagiri Bungalows Row.JPG|thumb|Overwater bungalows, Thulhagiri, [[Kaafu]]]] A Maldivian classic is the '''overwater bungalow''', built on stilts directly above a lagoon. While these look fabulous and sound appealing, they have their downsides: * They're usually packed tightly together, often sharing a wall, meaning little privacy. * Especially at low tide, the water level may be too low to allow swimming or snorkelling. * Resort facilities may be a fair distance from the bungalows. * The lapping of waves is romantic enough on a calm day but can make it next to impossible to sleep if a storm blows through. These factors vary from resort to resort, so research carefully. A good one is definitely worth trying at least once, but many Maldives repeaters prefer a bungalow with a '''private beach'''. When considering where to go, factor in transport time and costs from the airport: the more far-flung resorts generally require an expensive seaplane transfer and you may have to stay overnight at the airport on the way. On the upside, the further away you are from Malé, the more peaceful the islands and the better the diving. Many resorts, especially the smaller dive-oriented ones, cater largely to a single nationality, leading to "Italian" resorts, "Dutch" resorts, "German" resorts, etc. While almost all welcome any nationality and have some English-speaking staff on hand, you may be cut off from any evening entertainment and have problems e.g. diving if you don't speak the local lingo. ===Guesthouses=== There are guesthouses on inhabited islands, and [[Maafushi]] island is popular with looking for hassle-free accommodation of this type. Low-end prices are €25-35 per night. Examples include: Equator Village on Addu Atoll, a former British Royal Air Force base converted to a 78-room hotel. The cost is around US$100-150 per person per day all-inclusive (including some alcohol). Another unique location is Keyodhoo Guest House, this guest house is on top of a recreation centre built by an Australian after the tsunami (US$20 pp/per night). Most visitors are scuba divers or adventure travellers. Other Inns/B&B can also be found on Vaavu Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll, Kaafu Atoll, North/South Malé Atoll and Ari Atoll Hangnaameedhoo. Only a few of these inns and B&Bs have their own pool. Confirm if bikinis are allowed on the beach. The distance between the inns and beaches are usually short, but visitors should still dress appropriately to Maldive customs. ===Village homestays=== More independent-minded travellers and those looking for cultural experience may consider renting rooms in villages. This will require either walking through the village and asking around if you're particularly confident of your social skills or inquiring in Malé City whether someone can put you in contact with their friends or relatives on a remote island for such an informal homestay. Prices can be as low as €15 per night for a clean functional room. ==Learn== The first university in Maldives (Maldives National University) was inaugurated on 15 February 2011. Operated under the aegis of the Department of Higher Education and Training, MCHE and the Islamic University of Maldives are the only free public degree-granting institutions on the island. The college offers a range of degrees, diplomas, and certificates, with particular emphasis on engineering, health science, education, tourism, and management. The average enrolment at MCHE is around 4,000 students in long-term (that is, more than one academic year) programs and around 2,000 in short-term (shorter than one academic year) courses. State-owned institutions such as Maldives Polytechnic and TVET Maldives offers free technical and vocational training to help develop skills for employment. Several private institutions offer internationally recognised undergraduate and postgraduate courses. ==Work== Getting a job in the Maldives can be tricky. It is not the kind of place where you can just turn up and start job hunting. Generally, the resorts take on a mix of local and international staff so you need to approach the resort Human Resources departments. There is a good mix of jobs but a lot of the roles are diving based (divemasters, instructors, photographers, etc.) Most resorts are predominately one or two nationalities so finding the resorts that match your language skills helps. After that experience always helps (especially for diving instructors as the Maldives are well known for their strong currents and half of the time the currents will take you straight out into the Indian Ocean). Generally, if you get a job with a resort then they will get you a work permit and pay for your flight, food and accommodation. They don't really have much choice, it's hardly as if you can pop out to the supermarket and pick up a pizza for dinner. ==Stay safe== [[File:Malediven Rashdoo Kuramathi.jpg|thumb|The Rasdhoo atoll from a plane]] Dial toll-free number '''1478''' or '''(+960) 9790070''' to contact the tourist police at anytime for information or assistance. Most visitors to the Maldives stay in “resort hotels” where crime levels are relatively low. Nevertheless petty crime, including the theft of goods left unattended on the beach or in hotel rooms, does occur. You should take care of your valuables and other personal possessions, especially when travelling in Malé City. Use safe deposit boxes on island resorts. The sea around the Maldives can have strong tidal currents and a number of tourists drown every year. You should always take local advice before entering the sea. You should be sensitive to local dress standards when on local islands or if staying on an island where the resort is not the exclusive property on the island – cover your shoulders and avoid short or tight-fitting shorts (men and women). Bikinis are only allowed in a designated area on some local islands. Nudism and topless sunbathing are not allowed anywhere, including on resort islands. Maldives has very strong anti-drugs laws. Importing or possessing drugs can carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment. Locals and police are likely to take seriously the possession and consumption of alcohol, as well as being intoxicated, outside resorts and on inhabited islands. Same-sex relations are illegal and convicted offenders could face lengthy prison sentences and fines. Cases of '''sexual harassment''' are not rare in Maldives. Solo female travellers should be vigilant. Blasphemy, criticism of Islam and proselytizing by non-Muslims in Maldives, including the public possession and distribution of non-Muslim religious materials (such as the Bible), is illegal. ==Stay healthy== Health facilities are established in each inhabited island with island level primary health centres, followed by a higher level of health facilities and speciality care hospitals at the atoll level, and tertiary care facilities at the urban/city level. If you fall seriously ill during your stay, you may be transported to another country for adequate medical care. There are no serious problems with diseases in the Maldives. Beware that '''[[tap water]]''' may not be drinkable at all resorts: enquire locally. The Maldives are malaria-free, but some islands do have mosquitoes and catching [[dengue fever]] from them is possible, albeit highly unlikely. For those coming from regions infected by yellow fever, an international certificate of inoculation is required. Most of the problems come from diving or sun-related injuries. Heatstroke always causes problems in the tropics but couple that with divers spending hours at a time on a boat wearing a wetsuit and overheating of one form or another is a real issue. Keeping this in mind, such injuries will be easily avoidable as long as you drink lots of water and get into the shade as much as possible. Lots of the resorts have their own doctor or nurse and most are within easy reach of the decompression chambers. Malé City has efficient and fairly modern hospitals but bear in mind that it is a long way to get medically evacuated home from. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} Much of what is considered good manners in [[South Asia]] is applicable to the Maldives. Maldives is a highly religious country and local laws reflect the fact that the country is an Islamic country. You can very easily elicit strong responses by speaking negatively about religion, especially from an agnostic point of view. ==Connect== There are two mobile operators: ''[https://www.dhiraagu.com.mv/ Dhiraagu]'' and ''[https://ooredoo.mv Ooredoo]''. Both of them sell local prepaid SIM card or eSIM with the internet connection at competitive rates. The first-mentioned of them is the leading local telecom company which has wider coverage while prices are about the same with its competitor. They both have shops right next to the airport arrivals area upon exiting. Also, both offer 3G/4G/5G data connections. Also if you plan to sail maybe you can be interested in satellite service offered by Ooredoo. Most hotels and cafés offer public Wi-Fi but connections are usually slow. A local mobile number is needed to purchase time at many Wi-Fi hotspots around the country. ===Emergency services=== Dial '''911''' for police, ambulance, fire and rescue, coast guard and '''(+960) 3322211''' for flight information. {{isPartOf|South_Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|3.2|73.22|zoom=6|layer=LM}} 342grd9vlul2xr2af49m9e34x6wfnb4 5091285 5091284 2025-07-11T10:00:14Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091285 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Maldives banner Small island shoreline with beach.jpg}} The '''Maldives''' ([[Dhivehi phrasebook|Dhivehi]]: ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ ''Dhivehi Raajje'') are an archipelago in the [[Islands of the Indian Ocean|Indian Ocean]] with picture-perfect beaches, strikingly blue water, and luxury resorts. There are 200 inhabited islands and 165 islands with tourist resorts. Just under the surface of the beautiful blue ocean, there's a wealth of wildlife to see: over 2000 species of fish in all colours of the rainbow roam the clear waters around the islands. ==Regions== The Maldives are an archipelago of 1,192 coral islands formed of 26 atolls, or ''atholhu'' in Dhivehi &mdash; the source of the English word. These are not single islands, but giant ringlike coral formations hundreds of kilometres wide that have fragmented into countless islands. Atoll naming is complex, as the atolls have both lengthy traditional Dhivehi names like ''Maalhosmadulu Dhekunuburi'', and snappy code names like ''Baa'' that refers to administrative regions and may consist of more than one geographical atoll. The code names are the letters of Dhivehi alphabet, but being easier for non-Maldivians to remember and pronounce, the code names are popular in the travel industry and are hence also used here. Of the 21 administrative atoll groups, only (parts of) 10 are open to tourism, and from north to south these are: {{Regionlist | regionmap=Maldives regions map.png | regionmaptext=The twenty atolls of the Maldives | regionmapsize=160px | region1name=[[Lhaviyani]] | region1color=#a9d5c9 | region1items=Miladhunmadulu Uthuruburi | region1description= | region2name=[[Raa]] | region2color=#bab4c8 | region2items=Maalhosmadulu Uthuruburi | region2description= | region3name=[[Baa]] | region3color=#e8e5ba | region3items=Maalhosmadulu Dhekunuburi | region3description= | region4name=[[Kaafu]] | region4color=#d6d1e5 | region4items=North and South Malé Atoll | region4description=Site of the capital [[Malé]] and the airport, home of most Maldivian resorts. | region5name=[[Alifu]] | region5color=#a7e0e3 | region5items=Ari | region5description=To the west of Kaafu, the second most popular group. | region6name=[[Vaavu]] | region6color=#aae4b2 | region6items=Felidhu | region6description= | region7name=[[Meemu]] | region7color=#d5b7b7 | region7items=Mulak | region7description= | region8name=[[Faafu]] | region8color=#a3c9d6 | region8items=Nilandhe Atholhu Uthuruburi | region8description= | region9name=[[Dhaalu]] | region9color=#e2f2a4 | region9items=Nilandhe Atholhu Dhekunuburi | region9description= | region10name=[[Seenu]] | region10color=#8da8e6 | region10items=Addu | region10description=The southernmost atoll, the second-largest in population and site of Gan International Airport.}} The other atolls are Gaafu Alifu, Gaafu Dhaalu, Gnaviyani, Haa Alifu, Noonu, Haa Dhaalu, Laamu, Njyavinani, Shaviyani and Thaa. ==Cities== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Malé]]|wikidata=Q9347}} &mdash; the capital and by far the largest city, crammed onto a small island and by some measures the world's densest city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Addu]]|wikidata=Q4681407}} &mdash; the Maldives' second city in the far south of the archipelago, the former capital of the short-lived United Suvadive Republic * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Fuvahmulah]]|wikidata=Q2060910}} &mdash; just north of Addu, well off the beaten track * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kulhudhuffushi]]|wikidata=Q3185775}} &mdash; largest city in the northern Maldives ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Kuredu ]]|wikidata=Q4176474}} &mdash; one of the inhabited islands of [[Lhaviyani]] Atoll * {{marker|name=[[Mathiveri]]|wikidata=Q1920590}} &mdash; island belonging to [[Ari|North Ari Atoll]] * {{marker|name=[[Rasdhoo|Rasdhoo]]|wikidata=Q2053471}} &mdash; smallish inhabited island and the capital of the North Ari Atoll * {{marker|name=[[Thoddoo]]|wikidata=Q3040414}} &mdash; an isolated inhabited island that administratively belongs to [[Ari|North Ari Atoll]]. It's also the largest producer of watermelon in Maldives. * {{marker|name=[[Ukulhas]]|wikidata=Q4177376}} &mdash; smallish 1 km long island of Alif Alif Atoll ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMaldives.png}} ===History=== The heritage of the Maldives is told in legends, in records of old copperplates, coral-carved ancient scripts and echoes of traditional culture. The story tallies in known South Asian history with mentions of the great Mauryan ruler Emperor Ashoka. After being a Sultanate under Dutch and British protection, the Maldives gained independence from the British in 1965 and became a republic in 1968. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom ruled over the country with an iron fist and did not hesitate to jail dissidents. He was re-elected five times in more or less rigged elections. Resistance to his rule culminated in violent rioting in 2003 and 2004. Much to everybody's surprise, free and fair elections were held in 2008, and Maumoon conceded defeat to opposition leader Mohamed Nasheed, "Anni". By December 2011, though, the tables had turned. Most of Nasheed's allies had left his government and there were increasingly large anti-government protests. Nasheed resigned in 2012 under murky circumstances and then lost a controversial 2013 election to Maumoon's half-brother Abdulla Yameen, whose administration has cracked down on political freedom and imprisoned opposition figures. During his rule, Yameen withdrew the Maldives from the Commonwealth, and pivoted his foreign policy away from Maldives' traditional ally, India, to align more closely with China in exchange for Chinese investments. In the 2018 election, Yameen was defeated by opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Despite fears that he would refuse to step down, Yameen publicly conceded the election shortly after, and handed power peacefully to his successor on 17th November 2018. Under Solih, the Maldives re-joined the Commonwealth in 2020, and has largely pivoted Maldives' policy back to India, though it has continued to maintain cordial ties with China. [[File:Male-total.jpg|thumb|258x258px|The entirety of [[Malé]].]] The tsunami of 26 December 2004 caused extensive damage to the Maldives - of a population of only 290,000, over a third was directly affected by the tsunami and more than 15,000 people were left homeless. The economic damage alone was over 62% of the GDP or US$470 million. The immediate response from international donors and agencies mobilized more than US$400 million in aid after the disaster, much of which was used to help misplaced persons rebuild their homes and infrastructure damaged by the waves. ===Economy=== Tourism, Maldives largest industry, accounts for 28% of GDP and more than 60% of the Maldives' foreign exchange receipts. Over 90% of government tax revenue comes from import duties and tourism-related taxes. Over 1.7 million tourists visited the islands in 2019. Fishing is the second leading sector. The Maldivian government began an economic reform program in 1989 by lifting import quotas and opening some exports to the private sector. Subsequently, it has liberalized regulations to allow more foreign investment. Agriculture and manufacturing continue to play a minor role in the economy, constrained by the limited availability of cultivable land and the shortage of domestic labour. Most staple foods must be imported. Industry, which consists mainly of shipping, boat building and handicrafts, accounts for about 18% of GDP. Maldivian authorities worry about the impact of erosion and global warming on their low-lying country; 80% of the area is one metre or less above sea level. ===Culture=== Maldivians are entirely Sunni Muslim, and the local culture is a mixture of Sinhalese, South Indian and Arab influences. While alcohol, pork, dogs and public observance of non-Muslim religions are banned on the inhabited islands, the resorts are allowed to exist in a bubble where almost anything goes. Note that the weekend in the Maldives runs from Friday to Saturday, during which banks, government offices and many shops are closed. You won't notice this at the resorts though, except that lunch hours may be shifted for Friday prayers. [[File:Bathala (Maldives) 6.jpg|thumb|The view of Bathala from a boat.]] ===Climate=== The Maldives are tropical, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures around 26.4°C (79.52°F) to 31.5°C (88.7°F) throughout the year. However, rainfall increases considerably during the April-October southwest monsoon, particularly from June to November. ===Read=== * ''The Maldives: Islamic Republic, Tropical Autocracy'' by J. J. Robinson, a journalist who lived in the Maldives through some of its 21st-century political turmoil. In addition to an interesting look at what life is like for foreigners in Malé and for staff behind the scenes at the resorts, the book gives a detailed and surprisingly readable account of the complex political crises that the country experienced between 2008 and 2015. ===Official tourist guide to Maldives=== * [https://visitmaldives.com/ Visit Maldives] website ==Talk== {{Seealso|Dhivehi phrasebook}} Maldivian ('''Dhivehi'''), a close relative of [[Sinhala phrasebook|Sinhala]] (spoken in Sri Lanka) but with borrowings from Urdu, Hindi, Arabic and many other languages, is the official and national language. It is written in a remarkable hybrid script called ''Thaana'', which uses Arabic and Indic numbers as the base of the alphabet, written from right to left with Arabic vowel signs. The script is thought to have originated as a secret code for writing magical formulas so that outsiders can't read them, which would also explain why the ordering of the alphabet is, as far as linguists can tell, random. English is widely spoken, particularly by government officials and those working in the tourism industry. English is also the language of instruction in schools. "House reef" describes a coral reef accessible from the beach or jetty, thus you may hear discussions about whether an island has a good house reef or not. Since the Maldives are a popular destination for German and Italian holidaymakers, a sizeable number of local resort workers speak German and Italian. This may vary depending between resorts. ==Get in== ===Entry requirements=== {{VisaRestriction|Israeli citizens are '''banned''' from entering Maldives.|lastedit=2024-06-03}} The Maldives have a remarkably easy visa policy: ''Everybody'' gets a free 30-day visa on arrival, provided that they have a passport valid for a minimum period of 1 month from the date of entry, a return journey confirmed ticket and entry requirements to the onward destinations, a prepaid confirmed hotel booking at a registered hotel or proof of financial means for sufficient funds to support the stay in Maldives (US$100 + $50 per day). See the [https://immigration.gov.mv/tourist-visa/ Maldives Immigration website] for details. Traveller Declaration form must be filled in and submitted by all foreigners arriving to the Maldives, within 96 hours (4 days) to the flight time. The form has to be submitted electronically via [http://imuga.immigration.gov.mv/ IMUGA]. Importing explosives, weapons, firearms, ammunition, pornographic material, materials deemed contrary to Islam including ‘idols for worship’ and bibles, pork and pork products, and alcohol into the Maldives is forbidden and all luggage is X-rayed on arrival. ''Exporting sand, seashells or coral'' is forbidden. '''All dogs are banned''' from the Maldives. See the [https://www.customs.gov.mv/Individuals/Items%20for%20Personal%20Use/Individual-Prohibited-and-Restricted-Items-for-Import Maldives Customs Service website]{{Dead link|February 2023|September 2024|bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for details. ===By plane=== [[File:Male Airport 2010.jpg|thumb|Male international airport]] Practically all visitors arrive at [https://macl.aero/ '''Velana International Airport''']{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ({{IATA|MLE}}), on Hulhulé Island next to the capital city [[Malé]]. The airport is served by a wide array of flights from [[China]], [[India]], [[Sri Lanka]], [[Dubai]], major airports in [[South-East Asia]], and charters from Europe. Many flights stop in [[Colombo]] (Sri Lanka) on the way. If you want to get an amazing aerial view of the islands, try to get a seat on the left side of the flight. British Airways flies directly from London Gatwick to Malé during the winter (October to March). No direct flights operate from London Heathrow, however, it is possible to get an indirect flight via India or the UAE for example. Singapore Airlines flies daily direct from Singapore to Malé, with late night timings. '''Gan Airport''' ({{IATA|GAN}}), on the southern atoll of [[Addu]], serves a few international flights. Departure taxes are included in your ticket. ===By boat=== There are no regular passenger boats to the Maldives. Even yachts usually steer clear, as navigating around the reefs is hazardous and permits are expensive. '''Dogs''' are banned from the Maldives. Even if they remain on your boat the authorities can be ''extremely'' sketchy about this compromise, and this can put the life of your dog at risk, should the officials you are dealing with not be sympathetic to your situation. Be sensible and do ''not'' bring them into any Maldivian port. ==Get around== [[File:Ile de Kani - Atoll de Malé Nord.jpg|thumb|Ferry next to Kani island]] There are four main ways of getting around in the Maldives: '''domestic flight''', '''boat''', '''seaplane''' and '''private yacht''' (liveaboard). The boats are the Maldivian equivalent of a car, while seaplanes and private yachts (liveaboards) are mainly reserved for tourists. Seaplanes prefer not to operate at night, so if you arrive at the airport after dark and are going to a distant resort, you may have to spend the night in [[Malé]], Hulhumalé or at the airport hotel in [[Hulhulé]]. Private transfers, though expensive can be opted for resort transfers, instead of spending the whole night at Malé City. Private transfers could cost US$500-800. On the way back, there may also be a significant gap between the time your transfer arrives and your flight departure. Check with your resort or travel agent. ===By plane=== No point in the Maldives is more than 90 minutes away by plane from [[Malé]], and visitors to the more far-flung resorts use air taxi services. There are four main operators: '''[https://mantaair.mv/ Manta Air]''', '''[https://villaair.aero/ Villa Air]''' operates scheduled flights from Malé to Maamigili and Dharavandhoo, '''[https://www.transmaldivian.com/ Trans Maldivian Airways]''' which flies DHC-6 Twin Otter seaplanes that take around 15 passengers. The company schedules most planes at 6PM the previous day. Delays are frequent, it is not rare to wait for 5 hours in the TMA lounge. Seaplane scheduled in the evening has a high risk of being cancelled as delays add up and the sky becomes darker, in such cases TMA will make you take a combination of domestic flight and boat, potentially making you reach your destination well after dinner time. Scheduled inter-island services are provided by '''[https://maldivian.aero/ Maldivian]''', which flies from [[Malé]] to [[Gan]], Maafaru, Thimarafushi, Dharavandhoo, Funadhoo, Fuvahmulah, Hanimaadhoo, Ifuru, Kaadedhdhoo, Kadhdhoo, kooddoo, Kudahuvadhoo, Maavarulu, Faresmathoda, Hoarafushi, Madivaru and Kulhudhuffushi. Travel permits are no longer required. ===By boat=== The taxi boats generally take tourists to and from the islands in the North and South Malé atolls. They come in all different shapes and sizes depending on the quality of the resort you stay, and the Four Seasons has a large enclosed motor cruiser with drinks and food, while the lesser resorts have open-sided ''dhoni'' fishing boats. Public ''dhoni'' ferries and cargo boats are available for more the independent-minded and budget-conscious. The main operator is [http://www.mtcc.com.mv/content/comprehensive-transport-network MTCC], who list schedules and fares on their website. The previous system of requiring written invitations and Inter Atoll Travelling Permits (IATP) for those wishing to visit other islands has been abolished; you're now free to travel wherever you wish. IATPs are still required if you wish to dock your own yacht, see [https://www.customs.gov.mv/ Customs] for details. ===By bus=== There are a number of bus routes around the capital including those which connects with the airport. They are run by [https://rtl.mv/#/busticket RTL]. ==See== [[File:Muliaage presidential residence of maldives.jpg|thumb|Presidential residence in Malé]] Most visitors come to enjoy the countless plush resorts, excellent beaches and stunningly colourful '''underwater life'''. Due to the isolated position of the island, the number of animals on land is limited, but the ocean has a wealth of wildlife. You will likely see plenty of anemones, different kinds of rays, octopus, squid and even giant clams. Whales, dolphins and turtles are spotted often. The '''Baa Atoll''', named a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2011 and one of the richest coral reefs in the world is becoming the main tourist draw while also becoming an example of sustainable tourism in a protected area. In short; snorkelling or diving is an absolute must, see the Do-section below for more information. The gorgeous and ubiquitous '''white sand beaches''' are a sight by themselves, especially with the tropical island setting they are in. A flight to one of the many resort islands gives spectacular aerial views of these picture-perfect islets, defined by rims of white sand and wide strokes of cobalt blue water. Yet, if you can pull yourself away from your luxury holiday spot, the capital city '''[[Malé]]''' might be an interesting diversion. The bustling financial and political centre of the country has a few sights. Try the '''National Museum''' for a touch of history. While the building may not look too promising, the museum's fine collection includes beautiful Arabic and Thaana engraved woodworks, religious pieces, weaponry and other historic artefacts. The town also has a number of worthwhile mosques. The 17th-century '''Old Friday Mosque''' is the oldest one in the country, and officials are often willing to let polite and properly dressed visitors in. The '''Grand Friday Mosque & Islamic Centre''' is its 1984 modern counterpart, and dominates the city's skyline. While simple in design, the large, white marble structure and the shining gold dome is an attractive sight. ==Do== [[File:Surgeonfish Powderblue.JPG|thumb|Powderblue surgeonfish, one of the most common reef fish in the Maldives]] ===Diving and snorkelling=== {{main topic|Diving in the Maldives}} Aside from making the water bungalow rock on your honeymoon, the primary activity on the Maldives is [[scuba diving]]. The atolls are all coral reefs hundreds of kilometres away from any major landmass, meaning that water clarity is excellent and underwater life is abundant. Manta rays, sharks, even a few wrecks, you name it, you can find it in the Maldives. While diving is very good by world standards even in the immediate vicinity of Malé, visibility and the chance of encountering large pelagic fish increases as you head to the outer atolls. Many divers opt for live-aboards, which can work out much cheaper than paying high resort fees. Currents vary considerably, with generally little inside the atolls but some powerful streams to be found on the sides facing the open sea. Water in the Maldives is warm throughout the year and a 3 mm shorty or Lycra dive skin is sufficient. Diving is possible throughout the year, but rain, wind and waves are most common during the season of the southwest monsoon (June-November). The best time for scuba diving is from January to April when the sea is calm, the sun is shining and the visibility can reach 30 m. There are decompression chambers on Bandos in [[Kaafu]] (15 min from Malé), Kuredu in Lhaviyani Atoll and at Kuramathi on [[Alifu]]. The one downside to diving in the Maldives is that it's quite expensive by Asian standards. Prices vary considerably from resort to resort, with specialist dive resorts offering better prices. In general, a single boat dive with your own gear cost around US$50, and US$75 without. Beware of surcharges: you may be charged extra for boat use, guided dives, larger tanks, etc. On the upside, safety standards are usually very high, with well-maintained gear and strict adherence to protocol (check dives, maximum depth, computer use, etc.) being the rule rather than the exception. [[Baa|Hanifaru Bay]] is a protected biosphere by UNESCO and is famous for some of the largest congregations of manta rays on the planet. ===Surfing=== The Maldives is becoming an increasingly popular surfing destination. Turquoise water and perfect waves make it an ideal and uncrowded destination for surfers looking for smooth surfing conditions. [[File:Picasso triggerfish2.jpg|thumb|Scuba diving is a popular activity in the Maldives.]] The best period for surfing in the Maldives is between March and October; the biggest waves occurring in June, July and August. This paradise is exposed to the same swells as Indonesia is, except that its higher latitude and its South-East exposure offers cooler and less hardcore surfing. The O’Neil Deep Blue Contests held in the Maldives have placed Maldives firmly on the world’s surf map. While most of the recognized surf breaks are in Malé Atoll, there is certainly more to be discovered. Specialized companies organize tailored multi-day boat trips in the region, allowing surfers to move easily from one point to another and maximizing the surfing time. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Maldivian rufiyaa | currencyCode=Rf | date=January 2025 | USD=15 | EUR=18 | GBP=21 | INR=18 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mvr-maldivian-rufiyaa XE.com] }} The local currency is the '''Maldivian rufiyaa''', denoted by the symbol "'''Rf'''" or '''"MRF"''' (ISO code: '''MVR'''). It is divided into 100 laari. However by law, resorts price services in US dollars and require payment in hard currency (or credit card), so there's no need to change money if you're going to spend all your time at the resorts. Most hotels have a shop but this is limited to diving and holiday essentials (sun cream, sarongs, disposable cameras, etc.) Some excursions from resorts will take you to local islands where there are handicraft type things to buy, but they are typically made outside the Maldives and sold at significant markups. Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25 and 50 laari, 1 and 2 rufiyaa. Banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 rufiyaa. The current series of rufiyaa banknotes is printed entirely on polymer. If you are heading to Malé City or the other inhabited atolls, exchanging some rufiyaa will come in handy. The coins, in particular, are quite attractive and make an interesting souvenir in themselves, but the smaller denominations are rarely used or seen. The rufiyaa is tied to the US dollar within a 20% band but is practically 15:1. US dollars are near-universally accepted: shops usually exchange them at 15:1 or 10:1. Maldivian rufiyaa can be changed at Bank of Maldives in the arrival area of airport. If you want to change rufiyaa back to your currency before departure, you need to keep the receipt. After check in, at Bank of Maldives in the departure area of airport, you can change rufiyaa back to the currency you previously changed to rufiyaa, not exceeding the amount listed on the receipt. The Bank of Maldives may not have small notes of your original currency though. ===Tipping=== Tipping is not compulsory in the Maldives as a 10% service charge is added to everything, although it is not certain that the money is passed on to the staff. Over the years the tipping culture has changed in the Maldives, mainly due to overseas visitors giving varying amounts of cash as tips. ===Costs=== Maldives is expensive for those who have comfort and service-oriented tourism in mind. Resorts have a monopoly on services for their guests and charge accordingly: for mid-range resorts, US$1000 per week per couple is a ''conservative'' budget for meals, drinks and excursions, in addition to the cost of flights and accommodation. Practically anything, including hotel rooms if booked locally, has a 10% "service charge" added, but tips are expected on top. For an adventurous traveller who has time, Maldives can be a very affordable and rewarding experience, with prices comparable to Malaysia. A number of inhabited islands have guesthouses with typical prices €25-40 per room. On more remote islands, renting rooms in villages is possible at even less. Food is inexpensive, and fish curries are delicious. Public ferries will transfer you between different islands of the same atoll for a few US dollars (though for less obvious locations, there will typically be 1 ferry per day and no ferries on Fridays). For transfers to remote atolls, one can negotiate with cargo boats, which would often take people for €14-38, depending on the destination. Cargo boats do not have schedules and depart when loaded. One may expect 1 boat in 1-3 days for each atoll. It is important to have in mind that staying on inhabited islands implies respecting the strict Muslim norms including no alcohol, modest dress, reserved behaviour. However, the locals are very welcoming and the experience may be much deeper and more rewarding than staying in resorts. ==Eat== All the resorts are self-contained so they have at least one restaurant, which generally serves the type of cuisine expected by their guests (i.e. modern European or generic Asian). Breakfast is almost always included, and most resorts offer the option of '''half-board''', which means you get a dinner buffet, and '''full board''', which means you get a lunch and dinner buffet. These can limit the damage compared to ordering a la carte, but your options are typically very limited and drinks are often not covered, not necessarily even water. If you're planning on drinking a lot, it may be worthwhile to go '''all inclusive''', but even this typically restricts you to house drinks. The only other place to find food is [[Malé|Malé City]]. This comes in two forms. Either small restaurants aimed at the tourists (of which there are a couple of nice Thai restaurants), which are often expensive, or small cafes called ''hotaa'', selling local Maldivian food at prices as low as Rf20 (US$6) for a complete meal. ===Maldivian cuisine=== [[File:Meal Maldives.JPG|thumb|A typical Maldivian meal: ''masroshi'' pastries, ''mas riha'' fish curry, ''paaparu'', grilled fish, rice and sweet black tea.]] Maldivian food revolves largely around '''fish''' (''mas''), in particular '''tuna''' (''kandu mas''), and draws heavily from South Indian tradition, especially [[Kerala]]. Dishes are often hot, spicy and flavoured with coconut, but use very few vegetables. A traditional meal consists of rice, a clear fish broth called ''garudhiya'' and side dishes of lime, chilli and onions. Curries known as ''riha'' are also popular and the rice is often supplemented with ''roshi'', unleavened bread akin to Indian ''roti'', and ''paaparu'', the Maldivian version of crispy Indian poppadums. Some other common dishes include: * ''mas huni'' &mdash; shredded smoked fish with grated coconuts and onions, the most common Maldivian breakfast (eat it as is or wrap it in ''roshi'') * ''fihunu mas'' &mdash; barbequed fish basted with chili * ''bambukeylu hiti'' &mdash; breadfruit curry Snacks called ''hedhikaa'', almost invariably fish-based and deep-fried, can be found in any Maldivian restaurant. * ''bajiya'' &mdash; pastry stuffed with fish, coconut and onions * ''gulha'' &mdash; pastry balls stuffed with smoked fish * ''keemia'' &mdash; deep-fried fish rolls * ''kulhi borkibaa'' &mdash; spicy fish cake * ''masroshi'' &mdash; ''mas huni'' wrapped in ''roshi'' bread and baked * ''theluli mas'' &mdash; fried fish with chilli and garlic ==Drink== As the Maldives is a Muslim country, alcohol is banned from the local population, as is with the importation of such products. At Velana International Airport, customs scan baggage through x-ray screening and will confiscate any bottles of alcohol they find. They will then issue a customs receipt, which you must carry with you at all times in order to reclaim your bottles before you leave the Maldives. However, nearly all resorts, live-aboard boats and the ''[[Hulhulé]] Island Hotel'' (on the same island as the airport) are licensed to serve it, usually with a steep markup. Tap water in resorts may or may not be drinkable: check with the management. Bottled water is extortionately priced, with US$5/bottle being typical. ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under US$100|US$100-300|Over US$300}} The Maldives had a longstanding policy of keeping tourists on dedicated islands, which meant they could only stay in full-service resorts where the cost of a night's accommodation started around US$200 and went up into the stratosphere, and the vast majority of visitors continue to opt for these. However, from 2008 all the islands were opened to tourism, and backpacker-friendly guesthouses starting from US$30 a night opened on inhabited islands across the archipelago. ===Resorts=== Most resorts take up their own island (1500 x 1500m to 250 x 250m), meaning that the ratio of beach to guests must be one of the best in the world and it is hard to imagine that you would ever have to struggle to find your own private piece of beach to relax on. Many have a "no shoes" policy and with such soft sands, it is easy to love this idea. The range and themes or the resorts are impressive, and most people will find one they like. They can be grouped into three types: * '''Dive resorts''', designed primarily for divers. Geared expressly for people who want to spend most of their time underwater, facilities on land are limited, but the house reef is usually excellent. Often found in the more far-flung parts of the archipelago. * '''Holiday resorts''', designed primarily for families. These are large and have a full complement of facilities (several restaurants, day-care centres, etc.), but don't have the over-the-top luxury and have less privacy. Most of these are located on [[Kaafu]], with easy access from Malé City. * '''Luxury resorts''', designed primarily for honeymooners and the jet set. The place to be if you want designer furniture, gourmet food and a plasma TV in an overwater villa reachable only by rowboat, and are willing to pay high prices for the privilege. [[File:Thulhagiri Bungalows Row.JPG|thumb|Overwater bungalows, Thulhagiri, [[Kaafu]]]] A Maldivian classic is the '''overwater bungalow''', built on stilts directly above a lagoon. While these look fabulous and sound appealing, they have their downsides: * They're usually packed tightly together, often sharing a wall, meaning little privacy. * Especially at low tide, the water level may be too low to allow swimming or snorkelling. * Resort facilities may be a fair distance from the bungalows. * The lapping of waves is romantic enough on a calm day but can make it next to impossible to sleep if a storm blows through. These factors vary from resort to resort, so research carefully. A good one is definitely worth trying at least once, but many Maldives repeaters prefer a bungalow with a '''private beach'''. When considering where to go, factor in transport time and costs from the airport: the more far-flung resorts generally require an expensive seaplane transfer and you may have to stay overnight at the airport on the way. On the upside, the further away you are from Malé, the more peaceful the islands and the better the diving. Many resorts, especially the smaller dive-oriented ones, cater largely to a single nationality, leading to "Italian" resorts, "Dutch" resorts, "German" resorts, etc. While almost all welcome any nationality and have some English-speaking staff on hand, you may be cut off from any evening entertainment and have problems e.g. diving if you don't speak the local lingo. ===Guesthouses=== There are guesthouses on inhabited islands, and [[Maafushi]] island is popular with looking for hassle-free accommodation of this type. Low-end prices are €25-35 per night. Examples include: Equator Village on Addu Atoll, a former British Royal Air Force base converted to a 78-room hotel. The cost is around US$100-150 per person per day all-inclusive (including some alcohol). Another unique location is Keyodhoo Guest House, this guest house is on top of a recreation centre built by an Australian after the tsunami (US$20 pp/per night). Most visitors are scuba divers or adventure travellers. Other Inns/B&B can also be found on Vaavu Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll, Kaafu Atoll, North/South Malé Atoll and Ari Atoll Hangnaameedhoo. Only a few of these inns and B&Bs have their own pool. Confirm if bikinis are allowed on the beach. The distance between the inns and beaches are usually short, but visitors should still dress appropriately to Maldive customs. ===Village homestays=== More independent-minded travellers and those looking for cultural experience may consider renting rooms in villages. This will require either walking through the village and asking around if you're particularly confident of your social skills or inquiring in Malé City whether someone can put you in contact with their friends or relatives on a remote island for such an informal homestay. Prices can be as low as €15 per night for a clean functional room. ==Learn== The first university in Maldives (Maldives National University) was inaugurated on 15 February 2011. Operated under the aegis of the Department of Higher Education and Training, MCHE and the Islamic University of Maldives are the only free public degree-granting institutions on the island. The college offers a range of degrees, diplomas, and certificates, with particular emphasis on engineering, health science, education, tourism, and management. The average enrolment at MCHE is around 4,000 students in long-term (that is, more than one academic year) programs and around 2,000 in short-term (shorter than one academic year) courses. State-owned institutions such as Maldives Polytechnic and TVET Maldives offers free technical and vocational training to help develop skills for employment. Several private institutions offer internationally recognised undergraduate and postgraduate courses. ==Work== Getting a job in the Maldives can be tricky. It is not the kind of place where you can just turn up and start job hunting. Generally, the resorts take on a mix of local and international staff so you need to approach the resort Human Resources departments. There is a good mix of jobs but a lot of the roles are diving based (divemasters, instructors, photographers, etc.) Most resorts are predominately one or two nationalities so finding the resorts that match your language skills helps. After that experience always helps (especially for diving instructors as the Maldives are well known for their strong currents and half of the time the currents will take you straight out into the Indian Ocean). Generally, if you get a job with a resort then they will get you a work permit and pay for your flight, food and accommodation. They don't really have much choice, it's hardly as if you can pop out to the supermarket and pick up a pizza for dinner. ==Stay safe== [[File:Malediven Rashdoo Kuramathi.jpg|thumb|The Rasdhoo atoll from a plane]] Dial toll-free number '''1478''' or '''(+960) 9790070''' to contact the tourist police at anytime for information or assistance. Most visitors to the Maldives stay in “resort hotels” where crime levels are relatively low. Nevertheless petty crime, including the theft of goods left unattended on the beach or in hotel rooms, does occur. You should take care of your valuables and other personal possessions, especially when travelling in Malé City. Use safe deposit boxes on island resorts. The sea around the Maldives can have strong tidal currents and a number of tourists drown every year. You should always take local advice before entering the sea. You should be sensitive to local dress standards when on local islands or if staying on an island where the resort is not the exclusive property on the island – cover your shoulders and avoid short or tight-fitting shorts (men and women). Bikinis are only allowed in a designated area on some local islands. Nudism and topless sunbathing are not allowed anywhere, including on resort islands. Maldives has very strong anti-drugs laws. Importing or possessing drugs can carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment. Locals and police are likely to take seriously the possession and consumption of alcohol, as well as being intoxicated, outside resorts and on inhabited islands. Same-sex relations are illegal and convicted offenders could face lengthy prison sentences and fines. Cases of '''sexual harassment''' are not rare in Maldives. Solo female travellers should be vigilant. Blasphemy, criticism of Islam and proselytizing by non-Muslims in Maldives, including the public possession and distribution of non-Muslim religious materials (such as the Bible), is illegal. ==Stay healthy== Health facilities are established in each inhabited island with island level primary health centres, followed by a higher level of health facilities and speciality care hospitals at the atoll level, and tertiary care facilities at the urban/city level. If you fall seriously ill during your stay, you may be transported to another country for adequate medical care. There are no serious problems with diseases in the Maldives. Beware that '''[[tap water]]''' may not be drinkable at all resorts: enquire locally. The Maldives are malaria-free, but some islands do have mosquitoes and catching [[dengue fever]] from them is possible, albeit highly unlikely. For those coming from regions infected by yellow fever, an international certificate of inoculation is required. Most of the problems come from diving or sun-related injuries. Heatstroke always causes problems in the tropics but couple that with divers spending hours at a time on a boat wearing a wetsuit and overheating of one form or another is a real issue. Keeping this in mind, such injuries will be easily avoidable as long as you drink lots of water and get into the shade as much as possible. Lots of the resorts have their own doctor or nurse and most are within easy reach of the decompression chambers. Malé City has efficient and fairly modern hospitals but bear in mind that it is a long way to get medically evacuated home from. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} Much of what is considered good manners in [[South Asia]] is applicable to the Maldives. Maldives is a highly religious country and local laws reflect the fact that the country is an Islamic country. You can very easily elicit strong responses by speaking negatively about religion, especially from an agnostic point of view. ==Connect== There are two mobile operators: ''[https://www.dhiraagu.com.mv/ Dhiraagu]'' and ''[https://ooredoo.mv Ooredoo]''. Both of them sell local prepaid SIM card or eSIM with the internet connection at competitive rates. The first-mentioned of them is the leading local telecom company which has wider coverage while prices are about the same with its competitor. They both have shops right next to the airport arrivals area upon exiting. Also, both offer 3G/4G/5G data connections. Also if you plan to sail maybe you can be interested in satellite service offered by Ooredoo. Most hotels and cafés offer public Wi-Fi but connections are usually slow. A local mobile number is needed to purchase time at many Wi-Fi hotspots around the country. ===Emergency services=== Dial '''911''' for police, ambulance, fire and rescue, coast guard and '''(+960) 3322211''' for flight information. {{isPartOf|South_Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|3.2|73.22|zoom=6|layer=LM}} elriwzslnpwuvr0tnwg38fu2hnrx6xc 5091286 5091285 2025-07-11T10:00:27Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091286 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Maldives banner Small island shoreline with beach.jpg}} The '''Maldives''' ([[Dhivehi phrasebook|Dhivehi]]: ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ ''Dhivehi Raajje'') are an archipelago in the [[Islands of the Indian Ocean|Indian Ocean]] with picture-perfect beaches, strikingly blue water, and luxury resorts. There are 200 inhabited islands and 165 islands with tourist resorts. Just under the surface of the beautiful blue ocean, there's a wealth of wildlife to see: over 2000 species of fish in all colours of the rainbow roam the clear waters around the islands. ==Regions== The Maldives are an archipelago of 1,192 coral islands formed of 26 atolls, or ''atholhu'' in Dhivehi &mdash; the source of the English word. These are not single islands, but giant ringlike coral formations hundreds of kilometres wide that have fragmented into countless islands. Atoll naming is complex, as the atolls have both lengthy traditional Dhivehi names like ''Maalhosmadulu Dhekunuburi'', and snappy code names like ''Baa'' that refers to administrative regions and may consist of more than one geographical atoll. The code names are the letters of Dhivehi alphabet, but being easier for non-Maldivians to remember and pronounce, the code names are popular in the travel industry and are hence also used here. Of the 21 administrative atoll groups, only (parts of) 10 are open to tourism, and from north to south these are: {{Regionlist | regionmap=Maldives regions map.png | regionmaptext=The twenty atolls of the Maldives | regionmapsize=160px | region1name=[[Lhaviyani]] | region1color=#a9d5c9 | region1items=Miladhunmadulu Uthuruburi | region1description= | region2name=[[Raa]] | region2color=#bab4c8 | region2items=Maalhosmadulu Uthuruburi | region2description= | region3name=[[Baa]] | region3color=#e8e5ba | region3items=Maalhosmadulu Dhekunuburi | region3description= | region4name=[[Kaafu]] | region4color=#d6d1e5 | region4items=North and South Malé Atoll | region4description=Site of the capital [[Malé]] and the airport, home of most Maldivian resorts. | region5name=[[Alifu]] | region5color=#a7e0e3 | region5items=Ari | region5description=To the west of Kaafu, the second most popular group. | region6name=[[Vaavu]] | region6color=#aae4b2 | region6items=Felidhu | region6description= | region7name=[[Meemu]] | region7color=#d5b7b7 | region7items=Mulak | region7description= | region8name=[[Faafu]] | region8color=#a3c9d6 | region8items=Nilandhe Atholhu Uthuruburi | region8description= | region9name=[[Dhaalu]] | region9color=#e2f2a4 | region9items=Nilandhe Atholhu Dhekunuburi | region9description= | region10name=[[Seenu]] | region10color=#8da8e6 | region10items=Addu | region10description=The southernmost atoll, the second-largest in population and site of Gan International Airport.}} The other atolls are Gaafu Alifu, Gaafu Dhaalu, Gnaviyani, Haa Alifu, Noonu, Haa Dhaalu, Laamu, Njyavinani, Shaviyani and Thaa. ==Cities== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Malé]]|wikidata=Q9347}} &mdash; the capital and by far the largest city, crammed onto a small island and by some measures the world's densest city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Addu]]|wikidata=Q4681407}} &mdash; the Maldives' second city in the far south of the archipelago, the former capital of the short-lived United Suvadive Republic * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Fuvahmulah]]|wikidata=Q2060910}} &mdash; just north of Addu, well off the beaten track * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kulhudhuffushi]]|wikidata=Q3185775}} &mdash; largest city in the northern Maldives ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Kuredu ]]|wikidata=Q4176474}} &mdash; one of the inhabited islands of [[Lhaviyani]] Atoll * {{marker|name=[[Mathiveri]]|wikidata=Q1920590}} &mdash; island belonging to [[Ari|North Ari Atoll]] * {{marker|name=[[Rasdhoo|Rasdhoo]]|wikidata=Q2053471}} &mdash; smallish inhabited island and the capital of the North Ari Atoll * {{marker|name=[[Thoddoo]]|wikidata=Q3040414}} &mdash; an isolated inhabited island that administratively belongs to [[Ari|North Ari Atoll]]. It's also the largest producer of watermelon in Maldives. * {{marker|name=[[Ukulhas]]|wikidata=Q4177376}} &mdash; smallish 1 km long island of Alif Alif Atoll ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMaldives.png}} ===History=== The heritage of the Maldives is told in legends, in records of old copperplates, coral-carved ancient scripts and echoes of traditional culture. The story tallies in known South Asian history with mentions of the great Mauryan ruler Emperor Ashoka. After being a Sultanate under Dutch and British protection, the Maldives gained independence from the British in 1965 and became a republic in 1968. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom ruled over the country with an iron fist and did not hesitate to jail dissidents. He was re-elected five times in more or less rigged elections. Resistance to his rule culminated in violent rioting in 2003 and 2004. Much to everybody's surprise, free and fair elections were held in 2008, and Maumoon conceded defeat to opposition leader Mohamed Nasheed, "Anni". By December 2011, though, the tables had turned. Most of Nasheed's allies had left his government and there were increasingly large anti-government protests. Nasheed resigned in 2012 under murky circumstances and then lost a controversial 2013 election to Maumoon's half-brother Abdulla Yameen, whose administration has cracked down on political freedom and imprisoned opposition figures. During his rule, Yameen withdrew the Maldives from the Commonwealth, and pivoted his foreign policy away from Maldives' traditional ally, India, to align more closely with China in exchange for Chinese investments. In the 2018 election, Yameen was defeated by opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Despite fears that he would refuse to step down, Yameen publicly conceded the election shortly after, and handed power peacefully to his successor on 17th November 2018. Under Solih, the Maldives re-joined the Commonwealth in 2020, and has largely pivoted Maldives' policy back to India, though it has continued to maintain cordial ties with China. [[File:Male-total.jpg|thumb|258x258px|The entirety of [[Malé]].]] The tsunami of 26 December 2004 caused extensive damage to the Maldives - of a population of only 290,000, over a third was directly affected by the tsunami and more than 15,000 people were left homeless. The economic damage alone was over 62% of the GDP or US$470 million. The immediate response from international donors and agencies mobilized more than US$400 million in aid after the disaster, much of which was used to help misplaced persons rebuild their homes and infrastructure damaged by the waves. ===Economy=== Tourism, Maldives largest industry, accounts for 28% of GDP and more than 60% of the Maldives' foreign exchange receipts. Over 90% of government tax revenue comes from import duties and tourism-related taxes. Over 1.7 million tourists visited the islands in 2019. Fishing is the second leading sector. The Maldivian government began an economic reform program in 1989 by lifting import quotas and opening some exports to the private sector. Subsequently, it has liberalized regulations to allow more foreign investment. Agriculture and manufacturing continue to play a minor role in the economy, constrained by the limited availability of cultivable land and the shortage of domestic labour. Most staple foods must be imported. Industry, which consists mainly of shipping, boat building and handicrafts, accounts for about 18% of GDP. Maldivian authorities worry about the impact of erosion and global warming on their low-lying country; 80% of the area is one metre or less above sea level. ===Culture=== Maldivians are entirely Sunni Muslim, and the local culture is a mixture of Sinhalese, South Indian and Arab influences. While alcohol, pork, dogs and public observance of non-Muslim religions are banned on the inhabited islands, the resorts are allowed to exist in a bubble where almost anything goes. Note that the weekend in the Maldives runs from Friday to Saturday, during which banks, government offices and many shops are closed. You won't notice this at the resorts though, except that lunch hours may be shifted for Friday prayers. [[File:Bathala (Maldives) 6.jpg|thumb|The view of Bathala from a boat.]] ===Climate=== The Maldives are tropical, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures around 26.4°C (79.52°F) to 31.5°C (88.7°F) throughout the year. However, rainfall increases considerably during the April-October southwest monsoon, particularly from June to November. ===Read=== * ''The Maldives: Islamic Republic, Tropical Autocracy'' by J. J. Robinson, a journalist who lived in the Maldives through some of its 21st-century political turmoil. In addition to an interesting look at what life is like for foreigners in Malé and for staff behind the scenes at the resorts, the book gives a detailed and surprisingly readable account of the complex political crises that the country experienced between 2008 and 2015. ===Official tourist guide to Maldives=== * [https://visitmaldives.com/ Visit Maldives] website ==Talk== {{Seealso|Dhivehi phrasebook}} Maldivian ('''Dhivehi'''), a close relative of [[Sinhala phrasebook|Sinhala]] (spoken in Sri Lanka) but with borrowings from Urdu, Hindi, Arabic and many other languages, is the official and national language. It is written in a remarkable hybrid script called ''Thaana'', which uses Arabic and Indic numbers as the base of the alphabet, written from right to left with Arabic vowel signs. The script is thought to have originated as a secret code for writing magical formulas so that outsiders can't read them, which would also explain why the ordering of the alphabet is, as far as linguists can tell, random. English is widely spoken, particularly by government officials and those working in the tourism industry. English is also the language of instruction in schools. "House reef" describes a coral reef accessible from the beach or jetty, thus you may hear discussions about whether an island has a good house reef or not. Since the Maldives are a popular destination for German and Italian holidaymakers, a sizeable number of local resort workers speak German and Italian. This may vary depending between resorts. ==Get in== ===Entry requirements=== {{VisaRestriction|Israeli citizens are '''banned''' from entering Maldives.|lastedit=2024-06-03}} The Maldives have a remarkably easy visa policy: ''Everybody'' gets a free 30-day visa on arrival, provided that they have a passport valid for a minimum period of 1 month from the date of entry, a return journey confirmed ticket and entry requirements to the onward destinations, a prepaid confirmed hotel booking at a registered hotel or proof of financial means for sufficient funds to support the stay in Maldives (US$100 + $50 per day). See the [https://immigration.gov.mv/tourist-visa/ Maldives Immigration website] for details. Traveller Declaration form must be filled in and submitted by all foreigners arriving to the Maldives, within 96 hours (4 days) to the flight time. The form has to be submitted electronically via [http://imuga.immigration.gov.mv/ IMUGA]. Importing explosives, weapons, firearms, ammunition, pornographic material, materials deemed contrary to Islam including ‘idols for worship’ and bibles, pork and pork products, and alcohol into the Maldives is forbidden and all luggage is X-rayed on arrival. ''Exporting sand, seashells or coral'' is forbidden. '''All dogs are banned''' from the Maldives. See the [https://www.customs.gov.mv/Individuals/Items%20for%20Personal%20Use/Individual-Prohibited-and-Restricted-Items-for-Import Maldives Customs Service website]{{Dead link|February 2023|September 2024|bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for details. ===By plane=== [[File:Male Airport 2010.jpg|thumb|Male international airport]] Practically all visitors arrive at [https://macl.aero/ '''Velana International Airport''']{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ({{IATA|MLE}}), on Hulhulé Island next to the capital city [[Malé]]. The airport is served by a wide array of flights from [[China]], [[India]], [[Sri Lanka]], [[Dubai]], major airports in [[South-East Asia]], and charters from Europe. Many flights stop in [[Colombo]] (Sri Lanka) on the way. If you want to get an amazing aerial view of the islands, try to get a seat on the left side of the flight. British Airways flies directly from London Gatwick to Malé during the winter (October to March). No direct flights operate from London Heathrow, however, it is possible to get an indirect flight via India or the UAE for example. Singapore Airlines flies daily direct from Singapore to Malé, with late night timings. '''Gan Airport''' ({{IATA|GAN}}), on the southern atoll of [[Addu]], serves a few international flights. Departure taxes are included in your ticket. ===By boat=== There are no regular passenger boats to the Maldives. Even yachts usually steer clear, as navigating around the reefs is hazardous and permits are expensive. '''Dogs''' are banned from the Maldives. Even if they remain on your boat the authorities can be ''extremely'' sketchy about this compromise, and this can put the life of your dog at risk, should the officials you are dealing with not be sympathetic to your situation. Be sensible and do ''not'' bring them into any Maldivian port. ==Get around== [[File:Ile de Kani - Atoll de Malé Nord.jpg|thumb|Ferry next to Kani island]] There are four main ways of getting around in the Maldives: '''domestic flight''', '''boat''', '''seaplane''' and '''private yacht''' (liveaboard). The boats are the Maldivian equivalent of a car, while seaplanes and private yachts (liveaboards) are mainly reserved for tourists. Seaplanes prefer not to operate at night, so if you arrive at the airport after dark and are going to a distant resort, you may have to spend the night in [[Malé]], Hulhumalé or at the airport hotel in [[Hulhulé]]. Private transfers, though expensive can be opted for resort transfers, instead of spending the whole night at Malé City. Private transfers could cost US$500-800. On the way back, there may also be a significant gap between the time your transfer arrives and your flight departure. Check with your resort or travel agent. ===By plane=== No point in the Maldives is more than 90 minutes away by plane from [[Malé]], and visitors to the more far-flung resorts use air taxi services. There are four main operators: '''[https://mantaair.mv/ Manta Air]''', '''[https://villaair.aero/ Villa Air]''' operates scheduled flights from Malé to Maamigili and Dharavandhoo, '''[https://www.transmaldivian.com/ Trans Maldivian Airways]''' which flies DHC-6 Twin Otter seaplanes that take around 15 passengers. The company schedules most planes at 6PM the previous day. Delays are frequent, it is not rare to wait for 5 hours in the TMA lounge. Seaplane scheduled in the evening has a high risk of being cancelled as delays add up and the sky becomes darker, in such cases TMA will make you take a combination of domestic flight and boat, potentially making you reach your destination well after dinner time. Scheduled inter-island services are provided by '''[https://maldivian.aero/ Maldivian]''', which flies from [[Malé]] to [[Gan]], Maafaru, Thimarafushi, Dharavandhoo, Funadhoo, Fuvahmulah, Hanimaadhoo, Ifuru, Kaadedhdhoo, Kadhdhoo, kooddoo, Kudahuvadhoo, Maavarulu, Faresmathoda, Hoarafushi, Madivaru and Kulhudhuffushi. Travel permits are no longer required. ===By boat=== The taxi boats generally take tourists to and from the islands in the North and South Malé atolls. They come in all different shapes and sizes depending on the quality of the resort you stay, and the Four Seasons has a large enclosed motor cruiser with drinks and food, while the lesser resorts have open-sided ''dhoni'' fishing boats. Public ''dhoni'' ferries and cargo boats are available for more the independent-minded and budget-conscious. The main operator is [http://www.mtcc.com.mv/content/comprehensive-transport-network MTCC], who list schedules and fares on their website. The previous system of requiring written invitations and Inter Atoll Travelling Permits (IATP) for those wishing to visit other islands has been abolished; you're now free to travel wherever you wish. IATPs are still required if you wish to dock your own yacht, see [https://www.customs.gov.mv/ Customs] for details. ===By bus=== There are a number of bus routes around the capital including those which connects with the airport. They are run by [https://rtl.mv/#/busticket RTL]. ==See== [[File:Muliaage presidential residence of maldives.jpg|thumb|Presidential residence in Malé]] Most visitors come to enjoy the countless plush resorts, excellent beaches and stunningly colourful '''underwater life'''. Due to the isolated position of the island, the number of animals on land is limited, but the ocean has a wealth of wildlife. You will likely see plenty of anemones, different kinds of rays, octopus, squid and even giant clams. Whales, dolphins and turtles are spotted often. The '''Baa Atoll''', named a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2011 and one of the richest coral reefs in the world is becoming the main tourist draw while also becoming an example of sustainable tourism in a protected area. In short; snorkelling or diving is an absolute must, see the Do-section below for more information. The gorgeous and ubiquitous '''white sand beaches''' are a sight by themselves, especially with the tropical island setting they are in. A flight to one of the many resort islands gives spectacular aerial views of these picture-perfect islets, defined by rims of white sand and wide strokes of cobalt blue water. Yet, if you can pull yourself away from your luxury holiday spot, the capital city '''[[Malé]]''' might be an interesting diversion. The bustling financial and political centre of the country has a few sights. Try the '''National Museum''' for a touch of history. While the building may not look too promising, the museum's fine collection includes beautiful Arabic and Thaana engraved woodworks, religious pieces, weaponry and other historic artefacts. The town also has a number of worthwhile mosques. The 17th-century '''Old Friday Mosque''' is the oldest one in the country, and officials are often willing to let polite and properly dressed visitors in. The '''Grand Friday Mosque & Islamic Centre''' is its 1984 modern counterpart, and dominates the city's skyline. While simple in design, the large, white marble structure and the shining gold dome is an attractive sight. ==Do== [[File:Surgeonfish Powderblue.JPG|thumb|Powderblue surgeonfish, one of the most common reef fish in the Maldives]] ===Diving and snorkelling=== {{main topic|Diving in the Maldives}} Aside from making the water bungalow rock on your honeymoon, the primary activity on the Maldives is [[scuba diving]]. The atolls are all coral reefs hundreds of kilometres away from any major landmass, meaning that water clarity is excellent and underwater life is abundant. Manta rays, sharks, even a few wrecks, you name it, you can find it in the Maldives. While diving is very good by world standards even in the immediate vicinity of Malé, visibility and the chance of encountering large pelagic fish increases as you head to the outer atolls. Many divers opt for live-aboards, which can work out much cheaper than paying high resort fees. Currents vary considerably, with generally little inside the atolls but some powerful streams to be found on the sides facing the open sea. Water in the Maldives is warm throughout the year and a 3 mm shorty or Lycra dive skin is sufficient. Diving is possible throughout the year, but rain, wind and waves are most common during the season of the southwest monsoon (June-November). The best time for scuba diving is from January to April when the sea is calm, the sun is shining and the visibility can reach 30 m. There are decompression chambers on Bandos in [[Kaafu]] (15 min from Malé), Kuredu in Lhaviyani Atoll and at Kuramathi on [[Alifu]]. The one downside to diving in the Maldives is that it's quite expensive by Asian standards. Prices vary considerably from resort to resort, with specialist dive resorts offering better prices. In general, a single boat dive with your own gear cost around US$50, and US$75 without. Beware of surcharges: you may be charged extra for boat use, guided dives, larger tanks, etc. On the upside, safety standards are usually very high, with well-maintained gear and strict adherence to protocol (check dives, maximum depth, computer use, etc.) being the rule rather than the exception. [[Baa|Hanifaru Bay]] is a protected biosphere by UNESCO and is famous for some of the largest congregations of manta rays on the planet. ===Surfing=== The Maldives is becoming an increasingly popular surfing destination. Turquoise water and perfect waves make it an ideal and uncrowded destination for surfers looking for smooth surfing conditions. [[File:Picasso triggerfish2.jpg|thumb|Scuba diving is a popular activity in the Maldives.]] The best period for surfing in the Maldives is between March and October; the biggest waves occurring in June, July and August. This paradise is exposed to the same swells as Indonesia is, except that its higher latitude and its South-East exposure offers cooler and less hardcore surfing. The O’Neil Deep Blue Contests held in the Maldives have placed Maldives firmly on the world’s surf map. While most of the recognized surf breaks are in Malé Atoll, there is certainly more to be discovered. Specialized companies organize tailored multi-day boat trips in the region, allowing surfers to move easily from one point to another and maximizing the surfing time. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Maldivian rufiyaa | currencyCode=Rf | date=July 2025 | USD=15 | EUR=18 | GBP=21 | INR=18 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mvr-maldivian-rufiyaa XE.com] }} The local currency is the '''Maldivian rufiyaa''', denoted by the symbol "'''Rf'''" or '''"MRF"''' (ISO code: '''MVR'''). It is divided into 100 laari. However by law, resorts price services in US dollars and require payment in hard currency (or credit card), so there's no need to change money if you're going to spend all your time at the resorts. Most hotels have a shop but this is limited to diving and holiday essentials (sun cream, sarongs, disposable cameras, etc.) Some excursions from resorts will take you to local islands where there are handicraft type things to buy, but they are typically made outside the Maldives and sold at significant markups. Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25 and 50 laari, 1 and 2 rufiyaa. Banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 rufiyaa. The current series of rufiyaa banknotes is printed entirely on polymer. If you are heading to Malé City or the other inhabited atolls, exchanging some rufiyaa will come in handy. The coins, in particular, are quite attractive and make an interesting souvenir in themselves, but the smaller denominations are rarely used or seen. The rufiyaa is tied to the US dollar within a 20% band but is practically 15:1. US dollars are near-universally accepted: shops usually exchange them at 15:1 or 10:1. Maldivian rufiyaa can be changed at Bank of Maldives in the arrival area of airport. If you want to change rufiyaa back to your currency before departure, you need to keep the receipt. After check in, at Bank of Maldives in the departure area of airport, you can change rufiyaa back to the currency you previously changed to rufiyaa, not exceeding the amount listed on the receipt. The Bank of Maldives may not have small notes of your original currency though. ===Tipping=== Tipping is not compulsory in the Maldives as a 10% service charge is added to everything, although it is not certain that the money is passed on to the staff. Over the years the tipping culture has changed in the Maldives, mainly due to overseas visitors giving varying amounts of cash as tips. ===Costs=== Maldives is expensive for those who have comfort and service-oriented tourism in mind. Resorts have a monopoly on services for their guests and charge accordingly: for mid-range resorts, US$1000 per week per couple is a ''conservative'' budget for meals, drinks and excursions, in addition to the cost of flights and accommodation. Practically anything, including hotel rooms if booked locally, has a 10% "service charge" added, but tips are expected on top. For an adventurous traveller who has time, Maldives can be a very affordable and rewarding experience, with prices comparable to Malaysia. A number of inhabited islands have guesthouses with typical prices €25-40 per room. On more remote islands, renting rooms in villages is possible at even less. Food is inexpensive, and fish curries are delicious. Public ferries will transfer you between different islands of the same atoll for a few US dollars (though for less obvious locations, there will typically be 1 ferry per day and no ferries on Fridays). For transfers to remote atolls, one can negotiate with cargo boats, which would often take people for €14-38, depending on the destination. Cargo boats do not have schedules and depart when loaded. One may expect 1 boat in 1-3 days for each atoll. It is important to have in mind that staying on inhabited islands implies respecting the strict Muslim norms including no alcohol, modest dress, reserved behaviour. However, the locals are very welcoming and the experience may be much deeper and more rewarding than staying in resorts. ==Eat== All the resorts are self-contained so they have at least one restaurant, which generally serves the type of cuisine expected by their guests (i.e. modern European or generic Asian). Breakfast is almost always included, and most resorts offer the option of '''half-board''', which means you get a dinner buffet, and '''full board''', which means you get a lunch and dinner buffet. These can limit the damage compared to ordering a la carte, but your options are typically very limited and drinks are often not covered, not necessarily even water. If you're planning on drinking a lot, it may be worthwhile to go '''all inclusive''', but even this typically restricts you to house drinks. The only other place to find food is [[Malé|Malé City]]. This comes in two forms. Either small restaurants aimed at the tourists (of which there are a couple of nice Thai restaurants), which are often expensive, or small cafes called ''hotaa'', selling local Maldivian food at prices as low as Rf20 (US$6) for a complete meal. ===Maldivian cuisine=== [[File:Meal Maldives.JPG|thumb|A typical Maldivian meal: ''masroshi'' pastries, ''mas riha'' fish curry, ''paaparu'', grilled fish, rice and sweet black tea.]] Maldivian food revolves largely around '''fish''' (''mas''), in particular '''tuna''' (''kandu mas''), and draws heavily from South Indian tradition, especially [[Kerala]]. Dishes are often hot, spicy and flavoured with coconut, but use very few vegetables. A traditional meal consists of rice, a clear fish broth called ''garudhiya'' and side dishes of lime, chilli and onions. Curries known as ''riha'' are also popular and the rice is often supplemented with ''roshi'', unleavened bread akin to Indian ''roti'', and ''paaparu'', the Maldivian version of crispy Indian poppadums. Some other common dishes include: * ''mas huni'' &mdash; shredded smoked fish with grated coconuts and onions, the most common Maldivian breakfast (eat it as is or wrap it in ''roshi'') * ''fihunu mas'' &mdash; barbequed fish basted with chili * ''bambukeylu hiti'' &mdash; breadfruit curry Snacks called ''hedhikaa'', almost invariably fish-based and deep-fried, can be found in any Maldivian restaurant. * ''bajiya'' &mdash; pastry stuffed with fish, coconut and onions * ''gulha'' &mdash; pastry balls stuffed with smoked fish * ''keemia'' &mdash; deep-fried fish rolls * ''kulhi borkibaa'' &mdash; spicy fish cake * ''masroshi'' &mdash; ''mas huni'' wrapped in ''roshi'' bread and baked * ''theluli mas'' &mdash; fried fish with chilli and garlic ==Drink== As the Maldives is a Muslim country, alcohol is banned from the local population, as is with the importation of such products. At Velana International Airport, customs scan baggage through x-ray screening and will confiscate any bottles of alcohol they find. They will then issue a customs receipt, which you must carry with you at all times in order to reclaim your bottles before you leave the Maldives. However, nearly all resorts, live-aboard boats and the ''[[Hulhulé]] Island Hotel'' (on the same island as the airport) are licensed to serve it, usually with a steep markup. Tap water in resorts may or may not be drinkable: check with the management. Bottled water is extortionately priced, with US$5/bottle being typical. ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under US$100|US$100-300|Over US$300}} The Maldives had a longstanding policy of keeping tourists on dedicated islands, which meant they could only stay in full-service resorts where the cost of a night's accommodation started around US$200 and went up into the stratosphere, and the vast majority of visitors continue to opt for these. However, from 2008 all the islands were opened to tourism, and backpacker-friendly guesthouses starting from US$30 a night opened on inhabited islands across the archipelago. ===Resorts=== Most resorts take up their own island (1500 x 1500m to 250 x 250m), meaning that the ratio of beach to guests must be one of the best in the world and it is hard to imagine that you would ever have to struggle to find your own private piece of beach to relax on. Many have a "no shoes" policy and with such soft sands, it is easy to love this idea. The range and themes or the resorts are impressive, and most people will find one they like. They can be grouped into three types: * '''Dive resorts''', designed primarily for divers. Geared expressly for people who want to spend most of their time underwater, facilities on land are limited, but the house reef is usually excellent. Often found in the more far-flung parts of the archipelago. * '''Holiday resorts''', designed primarily for families. These are large and have a full complement of facilities (several restaurants, day-care centres, etc.), but don't have the over-the-top luxury and have less privacy. Most of these are located on [[Kaafu]], with easy access from Malé City. * '''Luxury resorts''', designed primarily for honeymooners and the jet set. The place to be if you want designer furniture, gourmet food and a plasma TV in an overwater villa reachable only by rowboat, and are willing to pay high prices for the privilege. [[File:Thulhagiri Bungalows Row.JPG|thumb|Overwater bungalows, Thulhagiri, [[Kaafu]]]] A Maldivian classic is the '''overwater bungalow''', built on stilts directly above a lagoon. While these look fabulous and sound appealing, they have their downsides: * They're usually packed tightly together, often sharing a wall, meaning little privacy. * Especially at low tide, the water level may be too low to allow swimming or snorkelling. * Resort facilities may be a fair distance from the bungalows. * The lapping of waves is romantic enough on a calm day but can make it next to impossible to sleep if a storm blows through. These factors vary from resort to resort, so research carefully. A good one is definitely worth trying at least once, but many Maldives repeaters prefer a bungalow with a '''private beach'''. When considering where to go, factor in transport time and costs from the airport: the more far-flung resorts generally require an expensive seaplane transfer and you may have to stay overnight at the airport on the way. On the upside, the further away you are from Malé, the more peaceful the islands and the better the diving. Many resorts, especially the smaller dive-oriented ones, cater largely to a single nationality, leading to "Italian" resorts, "Dutch" resorts, "German" resorts, etc. While almost all welcome any nationality and have some English-speaking staff on hand, you may be cut off from any evening entertainment and have problems e.g. diving if you don't speak the local lingo. ===Guesthouses=== There are guesthouses on inhabited islands, and [[Maafushi]] island is popular with looking for hassle-free accommodation of this type. Low-end prices are €25-35 per night. Examples include: Equator Village on Addu Atoll, a former British Royal Air Force base converted to a 78-room hotel. The cost is around US$100-150 per person per day all-inclusive (including some alcohol). Another unique location is Keyodhoo Guest House, this guest house is on top of a recreation centre built by an Australian after the tsunami (US$20 pp/per night). Most visitors are scuba divers or adventure travellers. Other Inns/B&B can also be found on Vaavu Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll, Kaafu Atoll, North/South Malé Atoll and Ari Atoll Hangnaameedhoo. Only a few of these inns and B&Bs have their own pool. Confirm if bikinis are allowed on the beach. The distance between the inns and beaches are usually short, but visitors should still dress appropriately to Maldive customs. ===Village homestays=== More independent-minded travellers and those looking for cultural experience may consider renting rooms in villages. This will require either walking through the village and asking around if you're particularly confident of your social skills or inquiring in Malé City whether someone can put you in contact with their friends or relatives on a remote island for such an informal homestay. Prices can be as low as €15 per night for a clean functional room. ==Learn== The first university in Maldives (Maldives National University) was inaugurated on 15 February 2011. Operated under the aegis of the Department of Higher Education and Training, MCHE and the Islamic University of Maldives are the only free public degree-granting institutions on the island. The college offers a range of degrees, diplomas, and certificates, with particular emphasis on engineering, health science, education, tourism, and management. The average enrolment at MCHE is around 4,000 students in long-term (that is, more than one academic year) programs and around 2,000 in short-term (shorter than one academic year) courses. State-owned institutions such as Maldives Polytechnic and TVET Maldives offers free technical and vocational training to help develop skills for employment. Several private institutions offer internationally recognised undergraduate and postgraduate courses. ==Work== Getting a job in the Maldives can be tricky. It is not the kind of place where you can just turn up and start job hunting. Generally, the resorts take on a mix of local and international staff so you need to approach the resort Human Resources departments. There is a good mix of jobs but a lot of the roles are diving based (divemasters, instructors, photographers, etc.) Most resorts are predominately one or two nationalities so finding the resorts that match your language skills helps. After that experience always helps (especially for diving instructors as the Maldives are well known for their strong currents and half of the time the currents will take you straight out into the Indian Ocean). Generally, if you get a job with a resort then they will get you a work permit and pay for your flight, food and accommodation. They don't really have much choice, it's hardly as if you can pop out to the supermarket and pick up a pizza for dinner. ==Stay safe== [[File:Malediven Rashdoo Kuramathi.jpg|thumb|The Rasdhoo atoll from a plane]] Dial toll-free number '''1478''' or '''(+960) 9790070''' to contact the tourist police at anytime for information or assistance. Most visitors to the Maldives stay in “resort hotels” where crime levels are relatively low. Nevertheless petty crime, including the theft of goods left unattended on the beach or in hotel rooms, does occur. You should take care of your valuables and other personal possessions, especially when travelling in Malé City. Use safe deposit boxes on island resorts. The sea around the Maldives can have strong tidal currents and a number of tourists drown every year. You should always take local advice before entering the sea. You should be sensitive to local dress standards when on local islands or if staying on an island where the resort is not the exclusive property on the island – cover your shoulders and avoid short or tight-fitting shorts (men and women). Bikinis are only allowed in a designated area on some local islands. Nudism and topless sunbathing are not allowed anywhere, including on resort islands. Maldives has very strong anti-drugs laws. Importing or possessing drugs can carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment. Locals and police are likely to take seriously the possession and consumption of alcohol, as well as being intoxicated, outside resorts and on inhabited islands. Same-sex relations are illegal and convicted offenders could face lengthy prison sentences and fines. Cases of '''sexual harassment''' are not rare in Maldives. Solo female travellers should be vigilant. Blasphemy, criticism of Islam and proselytizing by non-Muslims in Maldives, including the public possession and distribution of non-Muslim religious materials (such as the Bible), is illegal. ==Stay healthy== Health facilities are established in each inhabited island with island level primary health centres, followed by a higher level of health facilities and speciality care hospitals at the atoll level, and tertiary care facilities at the urban/city level. If you fall seriously ill during your stay, you may be transported to another country for adequate medical care. There are no serious problems with diseases in the Maldives. Beware that '''[[tap water]]''' may not be drinkable at all resorts: enquire locally. The Maldives are malaria-free, but some islands do have mosquitoes and catching [[dengue fever]] from them is possible, albeit highly unlikely. For those coming from regions infected by yellow fever, an international certificate of inoculation is required. Most of the problems come from diving or sun-related injuries. Heatstroke always causes problems in the tropics but couple that with divers spending hours at a time on a boat wearing a wetsuit and overheating of one form or another is a real issue. Keeping this in mind, such injuries will be easily avoidable as long as you drink lots of water and get into the shade as much as possible. Lots of the resorts have their own doctor or nurse and most are within easy reach of the decompression chambers. Malé City has efficient and fairly modern hospitals but bear in mind that it is a long way to get medically evacuated home from. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} Much of what is considered good manners in [[South Asia]] is applicable to the Maldives. Maldives is a highly religious country and local laws reflect the fact that the country is an Islamic country. You can very easily elicit strong responses by speaking negatively about religion, especially from an agnostic point of view. ==Connect== There are two mobile operators: ''[https://www.dhiraagu.com.mv/ Dhiraagu]'' and ''[https://ooredoo.mv Ooredoo]''. Both of them sell local prepaid SIM card or eSIM with the internet connection at competitive rates. The first-mentioned of them is the leading local telecom company which has wider coverage while prices are about the same with its competitor. They both have shops right next to the airport arrivals area upon exiting. Also, both offer 3G/4G/5G data connections. Also if you plan to sail maybe you can be interested in satellite service offered by Ooredoo. Most hotels and cafés offer public Wi-Fi but connections are usually slow. A local mobile number is needed to purchase time at many Wi-Fi hotspots around the country. ===Emergency services=== Dial '''911''' for police, ambulance, fire and rescue, coast guard and '''(+960) 3322211''' for flight information. {{isPartOf|South_Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|3.2|73.22|zoom=6|layer=LM}} d0a2gxkrbj7igpy1hurzmbat756ctsq 0 21233 5091145 4962885 2025-07-11T02:04:37Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Thirupaadaleeswaram */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091145 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mena-asia_default_banner.jpg}} '''Mannargudi''' (Tamil: மன்னார்குடி) (also spelt Mannarkudi) is a municipality in Thiruvarur district (formerly part of Thanjavur district) in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is also known as Raja Mannargudi, Dakshina Dwaraka (Dwaraka of the South) or Mannai. ==Understand== ==Get in== Mannargudi can be reached by road from Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Kumbakonam and Pattukkottai which are situated around 40 km from the place. Mannargudi has its own railway station which connects it to Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruvarur and Trichy on a daily basis. ==Get around== ==See== ===Temples=== The most famous landmark in Mannargudi is the thousand-year-old Hindu temple '''Sri Rajagopala Swami Temple'''. It was built by Kulottunga Cholas 1 at 1000 CE. A festival called '''Panguni Tiruvizha''' is celebrated every year during the Tamil month of Panguni (March/April) in the Sri Rajagopala Swami Temple. People around the town gather in great numbers to celebrate this Panguni Tiruvizha. There is also Ani thirumanjanam held in Ani month (June-July). Adi-Pooram is day for the goddess, Sengamalath Taayar (Mother who sits on the Red Lotus). On this day the Goddess' Chariot (Ther) Festival being held. Other temples of importance in and around this town are * Akkarai angala parameswari temple in angalamman kovil street pudupalam. * Aangala parameswari temple in naduvaniya street. *Vishanivarthi Vinayagar Temple in East Second Street. *Sri Subramaniya Swamy Temple. *Sri Valathiyamman Temple (Melavasal) Kulandayi Mariyamman Temple. *Saethu Mariyamman Temple (at Ullikkottai) * Kaliamman temple Neduvakkottai. *Kailasanathar temple (Siva) * Meenakshi Amman Temple. * Othaistreet Ananda Vinayagar Temple *Sri Ramar Temple (at Vaduvoor). Other temples in the area: *Alangudi (Guru sthalam - one of the Navagraha Stala) Temple is about 23 km away, en route to Kumbakonam. *Sree Gnanapureeshwarar temple at Thirumakkottai. *Sri Pillayar Koil in (Kelathirupalakudi). ===Thirupaadaleeswaram=== There is a Siva temple north of Pamani river and is called '''Thirupaadaleeswaram'''. It is also known as Pamani Kovil. It is believed to be a 'swayambu' (means it came into existence of its own, not built by any known person). It is a wonderful temple which gives you peace and tranquility. You can reach this temple from the town by crossing 'Pamani' river. Much of the historical glimpses are established in an area of 2.4 ha (6 acres) with gigantic, sprawling 7 circumambulatory paths with 16 majestic towers and the typical grandeur of the stately Rajagopuram towering higher up the ethereal regions up 45 m (154 feet); the captivating marvel of a temple abides as a rare symbol of excellence. Some of the circumambulatory path like Tiruvunnazhi Prakaram, Garuda prakaram, Champaka prakaram, Kasi prakaram, Nacchiyar prakaram are enormously spacious and extensive and unique in their appearance. The seven vast splendid halls like Vallala Maharaja Mandapam, Thousand-pillared mandapam, Garuda Vahana mandapam, Yanai vahana mandapam, Lattice-window mandapa (Palakani mandapa) Butter and pot mandapa-(Vennai thazhi mandapa) Mast – Wood vehicle mandapa (Punnai vahana mandap) add the to the captivating pervasive expanse of the temple prakaras. There are 24 shrines including Perumal and Thayar shrines in the temple. The mast – wood tree Punnai is the sacred tree of the temple adored with special devotion as it is dedicated especially to the Lord. It is located in the Champaka Prakaram. This kshetra glorified as Champakaranayam, in yonder days, abounded in Champaka plants. The temple is established facing east. There is conjective among experts that the temple must have been built to face west, for the mound of mansions over the western entrance was perhaps the remnants of the palaces used by the members of the royal family for stay and rest during their visit to the temple for worship. Also the Sangu Tirtham and Chakra Tirtham are seen interchanged in their left and right positions; that is obviously due to the fact that the temple once faced west. The temple is said to possess seven circumambulatory paths; if so which is the seventh Prakara? It was customary in those days to recognize the car streets called Pralaya Kala Veedhi circumscribing the present four Gopala Samudram Car Streets. Due to ravages of time those streets had disappeared. They were, perhaps, the seventh circumambulatory path. The four car streets of Gopala Samudram are the sixth circumambulatory path.These grand streets should have been once the locations of protective and fortified moats filled with water. That is perhaps why the nomenclature-Samudram-is still sticking to this location. It is also possible to determine from the erstwhile Revenue Settlement Records that excepting the pathway leading to the main shrine all the other surrounding areas of the temple are measured and compiled as the mote. Along the Gopala Samudram car street opposite the temple there is erected a magnificent granite monolithic Garuda pillar. At the crest of the column there is a small shrine dedicated to Garuda who stands facing west with folded hands. This column is unimpaired by the ravages of nature for several centuries now. By using a mountain of cotton bales, Tirumangai Alwar contrived to sustain the vertically of this immense column of granite. On the northern side of this pillar there is a mandapa which houses the big chariot of this temple, which is next only to the chariot of Tiruvarur in its display of pomp and majesty. This is the East Gopalasamudram car street that beckons un on to Rajagopuram of the temple. There is the shrine of Sri Anjeneya at the northwest end of the car street. At the east car street there is an Agama school. Past the Garuda column is the sixteen-pillared mandapa at the magnificent main entrance of the temple. During festivities an image of the Lord is stationed here and numerous ceremonial worships are performed. On the southern side of the Sannidhi Street are the Ahobhila Mutt buildings where the darsan of Sri Narasimha and Sri Adivan Sadagopa Yatinadra Mahadesikan are practised. On the northern row of the Sannidhi street there is the Vanamamalai Mutt. Past the sixteen-pillared mandap, the towering Rajagopura extends high up and swiftly sweeps down to welcome worshippers. At the entrance in the southern side is Vira Anjeneya who is said to be proficient in extending merits to devotees. The fifth circumambulatory path is called "Nachiyar Prakaram". This is also the thoroughfare for the chariot procession of Sri Sengamala Thayar. For Sri Thayar, the Sumangali noted for refinement and moderation and gentleness of style would seldom betake herself beyond the gates of Her abode and this kind of festival of chariot procession is unique in the history of temple administration. Nowhere else is seen such a kind of festival to the deity. On the southeastern part of the circumambulatory path there is an entrance and a tower but the gateway has been shut now. In former days it was customary to fetch water from the Gopralaya Tirtha for the anointing of the deities. At the centre of the southern Prakara there is a huge gateway and tower. Opposite the enclosure wall there is also a tower. It is said that there was a Thyagaraja mandapa where in the Lord Thyagesa of Tiruvarur used to visit this mandapa and participate in festivals once every year. At the western Prakara there is a granite tower and western gopuram. There are numerous delicate works of arts and sculpture belonging to the Nayak period. The kings of Thanjavur used to visit this temple through this gopuram and perform ceremonial worship to the deities. At the northwest and there is a tank for the use of Sri Thayar. At the northern Prakara there is the northern gateway, the granite gopura and gopura built of bricks. In the northeastern portion there is the elephant mandapa and the cowshed. The gate of Tirumanjanam street and a small gopuram are established in the Prakaram. Near the elephant mandapa at the eastern Prakara the mandapa for Sri Thayar chariot is located. Westward to this mandapa is the 16-pillared mandapa and to the west of this, the shrine of Yoga Narasimha. At this 16-pillared mandapa, the Tiruvandikkappu of Sri Thayar is performed. At this entrance there is a new mandapa from which you can see the Krishna gopura. The fourth circumambulatory path is also famous as "Kasi Prakara". The path leading to the main shrine from Krishna gopura is famous as sabha. In the upper reaches of the Sabha mandapa there are beautiful sketches and drawings depicting skilled artistic acumen. South to the Sabha is the thousand-pillared mandapam. Westwards to the thousand – pillared mandapa is the Administrative Office of the temple. At the southeastern end there is mandapa from where the devotees enjoy the darsan of the Lord for Pakal Pattu and Era Pattu festival. At the Southern Prakara there is the sacred flower garden. From out of the jackfruit procured from the garden during the month of Vaikasi and coupled with Visakam constellation, the luscious delicacy of a delightful cuisine called Sahakara is prepared for the ceremonial offerings to the Lord. There is a 16-pillared mandapa at the northern Prakara famous as Tirumamani mandapa. During the Vaikuntha Ekadasi festivals the Lord would have prolonged, avowed ceremonial worships by the devotees throughout the day. Opposite this is a four-pillared mandapa where religious discourses would be held by the learned. At the eastern end of this prakara there are shrines for Kurattalwar, Udayavar and Vahana mandapa. The well opposite the shrine of Karuttalwar is open for the use of the general public for drinking. Opposite to the well by the southern side is the shrine for Sri Nigamata Maha Desikan. The third circumambulatory path is also famous as "Champaka Prakara". There is Mohini Gopuram at the entrance of this Prakara through the Sabha. At the fore part of this Prakara in the southern side, Perialwar and Kulasekhara Alwar are seen on a pedestal. Just opposite there are Flag Mast and Sacrificial Altar. Then there are the Primary Alwars shrines. At the south there is the kitchen wherein there abides the Madaipalli Nachiyar. The kitchen is also called Nachiyar Parigraham. At the southern Prakara there is the Store Room-Ugrana and nearby there are Andal, Nammalwar, Manavaala maa munigal shrines. Nearby Tirumangai Mannan and Kumudavalli icons are displayed. Adjacent to it are Anjaneya and Tondaradipodi Alwar propitiating Sri Rama padukas. Just opposite to Sri Thayar Shrine in this Prakaram there is a four-pillared mandapa in the open space and the Lord has the special ceremonial worships conducted here during Vasantha Utsava and Panguni Utsava. The shrine of Sri Sengamala Thayar abides at the southern Prakara. Entering the shrine you can see the Flag Mast and the Sacrificial Altar attended by Garuda along with his consort Suparni. When we reach the Thayar shrines and the adjacent South Prakara there is the niche for the sacred Basil Plant and opposite to it there is the glass mandapa. At the northeastern end there is the Vaikunda sabha also called Rohini mandapa at the projected stairs. Rohini Utsavam of Sri Perumal is performed in this mandapam. In the Nrithya Mandapa opposite to Sri Thayar shrine the grand Adhyayan Utsava and Ekasimhana Utsava for ten days for Sri Thayar are celebrated. In the Mattaiyadi Utsava when the Lord and Sri Thayar are seated at the same seat is called Ekasimhasanam. It is just like Sri Rangam Panguni Uttara consecrated worship. Here the famous Gadya Traya (Vaikuntha Gadyam Sri Ranga Gadyam-Saranaagata Gadyam) Chorus-cum-group recitals will be done by the learned. During Fridays in the month of Thai Thiruvolakkam for Sri Thayar will be done in this mandapa. The top of the mandapa has been fixed with brass plates. Sri Thayar is anointed every Friday in this mandapam. Next to this there is the Ardha mandapa and the shrine of Sri Thayar. Sri Sengamala Thayar and Hemabja Nayaki as the Utasvar and the Mulavar extend immense grace and benediction to the devotees. From the western Prakara and Sri Thayar Shrine junction a diversion branches as Champaka Prakaram of Sri Perumal. Northwest to this Prakara there is Sri Rams's shrine with the Nrityamandapa, Mahamandapa and Arthamandap. The sixteen – pillared mandapa otherwise called Sri Paduka mandapa abides there in the Prakara. Nearby there is Praamapada entrance and Pancha Parva Utsava mandapa. At the eastern prakara the sacred tree –the Punnai tree (the mast wood tree) and the yagasala are there. Sri Sengamala Thayar, the incarnation of Sri Mahalakhmi with four arms and two efflorescent eyes like Neelotpala, adorned with Kundalas at the ears, decked with Keyura haras and golden necklaces, decorated with white floral garland, with a countenance dazzling with the lightning of a smile amidst the coral-like red lips, with the bright tilaka on the fore head, with the locks of curling hair dense dark in hue, with the lustrous complexion flawless white in hue like pearls originated from bamboos, with form akin to Mahalakshmi abiding on the lotus and the face charming and attractive. Sri Sengamala Thayar the manifesting Viralakshmi, effulgent like the golden lotus, worshipped by all the celestials, resplendent with an ornament studded with gems at the tip of the nose, skilled in fulfilling all the aspirations on the votaries, the able and efficient consort of the manifestation of Vishnu, as Sri Vidya Rajagopala, the most indescribable and unparalleled in beauty and charm, the beloved daughter of Samudra Raja and the defender and protector of all the worlds. Just in front of Sri Perumal Sannidhi there is a grand Vadya mandapa and to the north of it, the Uttaramandapa of Vallala Maharaja and the shrine of Perarulalan. In this Mahamandapa Sri Perumal extends darsan during Pakal Pathru and so does Sri Thayar during Brahmotsava. Western to the shrine of Sri Perumal there is the chamber of rest and respite. On the pillars of Vadya mandapam, Achyutappa Nayak, Vijaya Raghava Nayak Rani Champakalakshmi is seen with folded hands. Southern to this mandapa there are steps to pass by. Higher above the Saligrama Anjaneya as consecrated at Haridranadi is also to be seen here. We have arrived at the Garuda Prakara at the entrance of the second circumambulatory path. The bronze sentinels, Jaya and Vijaya are seen to be absorbed in vigilance. Nritya mandapa of Sri Perumal abides at the Garuda Prakara and Garuda along with Ulsavamurthy has the shrines here. It is said there is a subterranean path here. From the southern part of the western prakara there are shrines for Venugopala, Lakshmi Narasimha, Ananta Padmanabha, Lakshmi Narayana and Gajendra Varada. At the northeastern end there is the shrine for Vishvaksena and Sutravati Devi. Northern to this there is the mandapa for the silver, gold vehicles to be deposited in safe custody. Now we reach the first circumambulatory path, Thiruvunnazhi. Just in front of the Perumal shrine there is the Mahamandapa, the Sabha. All the pillars there in are set with brass plates. Right to the Thiruvunnazhi Prakara and under the ceiling of the sanctum sanctorum there is Vinayaka shrines and in the northern Prakara the shrine of Durga, just as we have in Sri Rangam. Then we reach the Arthamandapa of Sri Perumal shrine. Inside the sanctum sanctorum the Supreme Deva Deva along with Sri Devi and Bhudevi, surcharged with the form of Mulavar Paravasudeva and Utsavar Sri Vidya Rajagopala consorted by Sri Rukmini and Sri Satyabhama endows the perennial wavelength of beauty and grace and at the same time dispelling all our taints and blemishes and conferring captivatingly ceremonial and fascinating darsan to the votaries. “May I ake refuge in Sri Rajagopala decorated with the feathers of peacock at the locks of hair dressed as a coil, with the lustrous tilaka of musk illumining at the forehead, with single ear-ring in one ear and a kundala at the other, dazzling with the moon light of a smile amidst the bud like pink lips embellished with numerous ornaments, adorned with fragrant sandal paste, holding the golden rod of the whip, enjoying the beloved company of Gopis, holding the lotus in the left hand, seated on the throne studded with Navaratna gems and having Champakaranya as the permanent abode.” ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Tamil Nadu South Coast}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|10.6700|79.4300}} {{style|Wikivoyage isn't intended to be a step-by-step walking tour, but to provide practical information, like how to get there, where to stay and where to eat. A summary of the tour is fine, but not this much detail.}} lw72er1fqlixk5jzp5s9f1xo1lv9fex 0 21684 5091293 5062868 2025-07-11T10:11:29Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091293 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Nouakchott (Mauritania) banner Minaret.jpg}} '''Mauritania''' ([[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]: موريتانيا, ''Mūrītānyā''; [[French phrasebook|French]]: Mauritanie) is a land of desert and ocean. It is of course no wonder that the main attractions for most tourists are the desert in Adrar and Tagant areas (around Atar), and the ocean in Banc d'Arguin (a natural reserve with dunes ending in the sea, full of millions of birds and protected by UNESCO). The Mauritanian Adrar is probably exactly how you've always imagined the [[Sahara]]: endless ''ergs'' (dunes) and ''regs'' (rocky desert) with tabular small mountains, but most tourists stay along the west coast of Mauritania. There are a few beautiful sights far into the interior (rock formations in Aioun, for example). If you decide to travel off the beaten path, leave plenty of time to get around. Mauritania is the least developed and poorest country in [[Maghreb|northwest Africa]], and extremist groups pose a danger to visitors. ==Regions== [[Image:Mauritania Regions map.png|thumb|400px|Map of Mauritania with regions colour-coded]] {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Coastal Mauritania]] | region1color=#B9AF8C | region1items= [[Nouakchott]] | region1description=the narrow coastal strip with a crashing Atlantic coastline and the capital city | region2name=[[Sahelian Mauritania]] | region2color=#9AAB61 | region2items= | region2description=semi arid region in the south including the patchily lush Senegal River valley | region3name=[[Saharan Mauritania]] | region3color=#D7D484 | region3items= | region3description=huge northern desert area which is largely very empty }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#B9AF8C|title=[[Coastal Mauritania]]|wikidata=Q14819418}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#9AAB61|title=[[Sahelian Mauritania]]|wikidata=Q14231690}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#D7D484|title=[[Saharan Mauritania]]|wikidata=Q14231683}} ==Cities== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Nouakchott]]|wikidata=Q3688}} (Arabic: '''نواكشوط''') – the capital of Mauritania and one of the largest cities in the [[Sahel]]. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Atar]]|wikidata=Q735645}} is a town in northwestern Mauritania, the capital of the Adrar Region and the main settlement on the Adrar Plateau *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chinguetti]]|wikidata=Q312357}} (Arabic: '''شنقيط''') – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of the Chinguetti Mosque. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Nouadhibou]]|wikidata=Q184184}} (Arabic: '''نواذيبو''') – the second largest city in the country. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tichit]]|wikidata=Q985527}} is a village at the foot of the Tagant Plateau in central southern Mauritania that is known for its vernacular architecture and proximity to the Dhar Tichitt archaeological sites. ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Banc d'Arguin National Park]]|wikidata=Q539518}} — a breeding site for many different species of migratory birds, this coastal national park is a [[world heritage site]]. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMauritania.png}} Southwestern Mauritania was once home to the Ghana Empire, one of the earliest urbanised civilisations to emerge in western Africa, with its capital at [[Koumbi Saleh]]. Mauritania is an Islamic Republic, and the people in the North have a reputation as being very conservative and quite reserved. The southern part of the country is filled with friendly people, and they are very welcoming, if a little unused to tourists. For people from outside the Maghreb there is a risk of kidnapping, especially in the more remote northern and eastern parts. Travelling to Mauritania is becoming easier, with charter flights from France to Atar through the winter. Guides and tourist agencies are quite easy to find. === Politics and government === Mauritania is officially known as the '''Islamic Republic of Mauritania''' ([[Arabic]]: '''الجمهورية الإسلامية الموريتانية''', ''al-Jumhūrīyah al-Islāmīyah al-Mūrītānīyah''), ([[French]]: '''République islamique de Mauritanie''') Along with [[Iran]] and [[Pakistan]], Mauritania is one of the three existing Islamic republics in the world. Mauritania is the only Islamic Republic in [[Africa]]. ===Climate=== [[File:Mauritania desert.jpg|thumb|Much of Mauritania is desert]] The climate is characterized by extremes in temperature and by meagre and irregular rainfall. Annual temperature variations are small, although diurnal variations can be extreme. The ''harmattan'', a hot, dry and often dust-laden wind, blows from the Sahara throughout the long dry season and is the prevailing wind, except along the narrow coastal strip, which is influenced by oceanic trade winds. Most rain falls during the short rainy season (''hivernage''), Jul-Sep, and average annual precipitation varies from 500 to 600 millimetres in the far south to less than 100mm in the northern two-thirds of the country. ===People=== Haratin, sometimes referred to as '''Black Moors''', are the largest single ethnic group in Mauritania, constituting 40% of the population, and are descendants of former slaves. About 30% of the population are Bidhan, also called Moors. The rest of the population mostly consists of members of peoples who also live in neighboring Sahelian countries such as Senegal and Mali, including the Fula, Soninke, Bambara and Wolof. Islam is the main religion in Mauritania and is practiced by virtually all Mauritanians. ==Talk== {{seealso|Arabic phrasebook|French phrasebook}} [[File:Corruption-Nouakchott.jpg|thumb|A billboard with French and Arabic on it]] '''[[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]''' is the official language of Mauritania. The '''Modern Standard dialect''' is the main language of the government, whereas the '''Hassaniya dialect''' is the local vernacular. Hassaniya Arabic contains many loanwords from various Berber languages and differs significantly from Modern Standard Arabic. '''[[French phrasebook|French]]''' is widely spoken, a reminder of the country's colonial heritage. It is taught from the sixth grade in Mauritanian schools and it serves as one of the main lingua francas of the country. It's widely used in everyday business and government. Most websites in Mauritania are either in Arabic or French. '''English''' is not widely spoken, but its use is gradually increasing, especially among young people. Although the government encourages its citizens to study English, many English-teaching institutions in Mauritania are poorly structured and lack direction. Still, Mauritanians see English as an important skill to have in the job market. You're likely to find an English-speaker in the capital, [[Nouakchott]]. Some of the languages spoken by Mauritania's black population in the south are '''Pulaar''', '''[[Wolof phrasebook|Wolof]]''', and '''[[Soninke phrasebook|Soninke]]''' (especially in the Guidimakha region around Selibaby). ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Mauritania.svg|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Mauritania, with countries in green having visa-free access. ]] ===Entry requirements=== Mauritania's visa policy has changed as of January 2025. Most travellers will need to apply for an E-Visa [https://anrpts.gov.mr/visa/requestvisa here]. It is normally approved within 1-3 business days, although delays can happen at any time due to corruption and the fact that tourism is really not a large priority for the government. If you are looking for a quick way to get your visa approved, it may be best to try to find a contact within the country and ask. You can, if you like, obtain a visa from a Mauritanian embassy. For instance, it can be arranged in [[Rabat]], where a single entry visa fee is 1,000 [[Morocco#Money|dirham]]. A double entry visa is also available for 1,100 dirham. Two passport-size photos are required, as well as a copy of the information pages of your passport. Visas are available on the same day in the afternoon if applied for in the morning for most nationalities. ===By plane=== '''Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport''' ({{IATA|NKC}}) is the base for Mauritania Airlines, which flies from Conakry, [[Bamako]], [[Dakar]], [[Casablanca]], [[Abidjan]], Nema, Zouerat, and [[Nouadhibou]]. It also receives flights from [[Algiers]] on Air Algérie and from [[Paris]] on [http://www.airfrance.com/indexCOM.html Air France]. Tunisair has flights from [[Tunis]], Air Senegal has flights from Dakar, Turkish airlines has flights from [[Istanbul]], Royal Air Maroc has flights from [[Casablanca]], Binter Canarias flies from [[Gran Canaria]]. '''Nouadhibou International Airport''' ({{IATA|NDB}}) receives flights from Gran Canaria with Mauritania Airlines. ===By car=== [[File:Border-Senegal-from-Mauretania.JPG|thumb|Border between Senegal and Mauritania]] Mauritania has open road borders with [[Western Sahara]], [[Mali]] and [[Senegal]]. These borders are open to crossing by private motor vehicle or bicycle but the first two are extremely dangerous. The road from the Western Sahara/[[Morocco]] enters the country near [[Nouadhibou]]. The road is paved all the way to the Moroccan border post in Fort Guerguarat, where one has to traverse about 7 km of twisting, stony, but straightforward pistes to reach the Mauritanian border, where the tarred road begins again. Although the driving is simple, care should be taken not to leave the well-worn pistes between the two border posts, because the area is a mine field. This danger is still present once you reach the tar on the Mauritanian side, and the area is not considered mine-free until you pass the railway line. The crossing formalities are straightforward. Transit visas, valid for 3 days, can no longer be bought at the border, although this may change. There is a bureau de change at the border, and a vehicle insurance office and numerous hopeful guides for making the old desert crossing to the capital. There are numerous pistes running across the Mauritanian border from Mali. These is a new tar road connecting [[Nara]] in Mali to [[Ayoun al Atrous]] in Mauritania. The border formalities in Mali are completed at various buildings around Nara town (local children will lead you to the police or customs for a small present). The Mauritanian formalities are conducted at a string of road-blocks along the border road. An alternative land route which goes direct from Mauritania to [[Timbuktu]], Mali is to travel the road Southeast from [[Néma]], which is at the end of a good tarred road from [[Nouakchott]]. This dirt road continues to [[Bassekounou]] before crossing the border near [[Léré]], Mali, where it improves to a good dirt road to [[Niafunké]] and on to Timbuktu. There is also a border crossing with [[Algeria]] between [[Zouerate]] and [[Tindouf]], but the location is ''extremely'' remote, with 700 km of Saharan desert between the two cities. As of 2024, the area is considered a military zone and travellers are rarely granted permission to use it. ===By bus/bush taxi=== *From '''Morocco''': Supratours runs a bus to the border at Guerguerat. It departs from the Dakhla waterfront at 08:00 and arrives at the frontier at 13:00 for 160 dirham, 15:00 from the frontier to Dakhla at 20:30. Access is available by hitching with overlanders from Dakhla (most can be picked up from Camping Moussafir just north of Dakhla) or from the Mauritanian embassy in [[Rabat]], or by paying for passage with Mauritanian traders. These can be found opposite the first police checkpoint north of Dakhla, the going rate is 250-380 dirham (negotiable) the ride should be started rather early and takes most of the day and border crossing is closed overnight. Cars with experienced drivers can be organized from Hotel Sahara (the budget one). This costs around 250 dirham per person. *To '''Morocco''': Cars with drivers can be arranged to cross the minefield to Mauritania from Western Sahara from hotels in Nouadhibou. *From '''Senegal''': Bush taxis can be taken from Dakar (6,000 [[Senegal#Money|CFA francs]]) and St Louis (2,000 CFA francs) (amongst others) to Rosso, where a ferry makes the trip across the Senegal river, and further bush taxis can be taken to Nouakchott (about 200 ouguiya). Be careful of bush taxis offering deals that seem too good to be true. They may be illegal taxis and could prove to be a dangerous means of transport. There will most likely be a number of drivers waiting. Ask around and find out the going rate. Other crossing points from Senegal include the Diama dam just north of St Louis, public transport also operates on this route. *From '''Mali''': Pickup trucks leave Kayes for Selibaby daily. It is also possible to enter at Nema, and across the southern border at several points. ==Get around== [[Image:Eisenerzzug.jpg|thumb|The train snakes through the Mauritanian desert.]] {{mapframe}} Make sure to have plenty of passport copies for travelling between towns. It’s not uncommon to give away up to 5-10 passport copies a day to police at checkpoints. ===By taxi=== Taxis are normally available at airports. Negotiating a good fare requires solid [[Arabic]] and/or [[French]] skills. Some countries, such as the United States, advise their citizens to not use Mauritanian taxis because they are poorly maintained. If you must get around a city, only use trusted, pre-arranged taxis. Your hotel or your tour agent may help you with this. Ride-hailing is available in Mauritania. * {{go | name=Classride | alt= | url=https://classride.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-08 | content=A Mauritanian ridesharing company. Works in [[Nouakchott]]. }} ===By train=== The Mauritanian rail network is limited and underdeveloped. As of 2023, there's only one train line linking the following cities: the [[Iron Ore Train]], between [[Nouadhibou]], [[Choum]] and [[Zouerat]]. The rail network is mainly used to transport iron ore from mines in [[Zouerat]] to the port in [[Nouadhibou]], but some people ride on it to travel to other cities. The full journey takes about twenty hours. Although this may seem like a good way to explore the Saharan desert, keep in mind that the train can be overcrowded, it can be quite uncomfortable, and that it is depressingly common for people to fall from the train. The scorching hot temperatures of the Saharan Desert can make things even more uncomfortable and difficult. If you are not acclimatised or used to travelling in difficult conditions, travelling by train is not advisable. The train departs daily from Nouadhibou at around 15:00 and arrives in Choum (for Atar) at around 02:00 the next morning. Check departure times on arrival. There is only one passenger carriage, but travel in an iron ore hopper is also possible (and may be advisable, as the passenger car is usually overcrowded and tickets are required, though as of 2024 railway authorities declared an inconsistently-enforced ban on foreign tourists travelling in the hoppers). There is also first-class accommodation, seats are limited, but they allow access to a smaller room with bunk beds. Although it does not necessarily ensure more comfort. Ticket price is 300 ouguiya (2025) for second class in the passenger carriage and travel in the hopper is free of charge. Remember to have a scarf to cover your face, as there is a lot of dust. From [[Choum]] it's possible to get to Atar with a bush taxi or minibus which often wait by the tracks when the train arrives. The journey typically takes about two hours (but could take much longer if the vehicle has a breakdown). ==See== [[Image:Chinguetti mosquee.jpg|thumb|Great Friday mosque in [[Chinguetti]].]] The '''Adrar''' massif in the north is full of stunning desert scenery. Take a 4x4 off-piste across rocky terrain and through narrow canyons to explore the lush, hidden oases which have provided water and refuge to traders crossing the Sahara for centuries. The Adrar contains two of the country's magnificent historical cities. '''Chinguetti''' was once a trading centre and centre of Islamic scholarship whose architecture remains unchanged in nearly a millennium. Along with '''Ouadane''' and a few other small towns, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And do not miss the '''world's longest train''' either just for a glimpse or to hop into an iron ore car filled with Mauritanians for the 12-hour journey from the Adrar to the coast. The remains of the Almoravid capital '''Azoughui''', and rock paintings, are draws of the Adrar. [[File:L'ancienne ville de Ouadane.jpg|thumb|Ancient city of Ouadane]] Much of the central coastline is part of '''Parc National du Banc d'Arguin''', home to millions of migrating birds each year. At Nouamgar, you can watch the unique spectacle of local tribesmen communicating with dolphins to round up teams of fish into shallow waters for them to be netted. In the southeast, the oasis city of '''Oualata''' was the southern end of most trans-Sahara trading routes in the 13th & 14th centuries. The city has colourful buildings, many of which feature intricate geometric designs. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also boasts a manuscript museum with examples of ancient scrolls in fine calligraphy. ==Do== * Visiting the '''Hamoni library''' in Chinguetti ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mauritanian ouguiya | currencyCode=UM | date=January 2025 | USD=40 | EUR=46 | GBP=50 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mru-mauritanian-ouguiya XE.com] }} The country's currency is the '''Mauritanian ouguiya''' (pron. oo-gee-ya), denoted by the symbol "'''UM'''" or "'''أوقية‎‎'''" (ISO code: '''MRU'''). It was revalued in Dec 2017: 10 old UM (ISO: MRO) = 1 new UM (MRU). Prices are occasionally still written in the old MRO system, especially in restaurants and hotels that cater to westerners, so don't be put off by the seemingly high prices. You are ''not allowed'' to take Mauritanian ouguiyas out of Mauritania. Coins are issued in denominations of 1 khoums ({{frac|5}} ouguiya), UM 1, 2, 5, 10 (silver center with yellow ring) and 20 (tri-metallic coin with a yellow center plug, silver middle ring and yellow outer ring). Banknotes are issued in denominations of UM 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000. All of the banknotes issued in 2017 are printed entirely on polymer. Mauritania is poorly connected to the international banking system. ATMs in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou now accept international Visa cards at banks such as BNP, Attijari. It is easy to change euros, US dollars and CFA francs in Nouakchott. Cash may not be available at all ATMs, especially in regional Mauritania, so don't solely rely on ATMs for currency. *'''Societe Generale''' ATMs in Nouakchott and Nouadibou accepts both international Mastercard and Visa cards for cash withdraw. ===Shopping=== [[Image:Fish market nouakchott mauritania.JPG|thumb|Fisherman's market near [[Nouakchott]].]] Souvenirs can be bought at Marché Capital or Marché Sixième in Nouakchott, or at tourist shops in the Adrar. Fabric will be sold in boutiques all over the country, but Kaedi is famous for its tie-dying. In general, the quality of most Mauritanian souvenirs is not as good as one might expect. Typical souvenirs include leather products, pipes, wooden bowls, tea pots and silver jewellery; be careful about the quality of jewellery. Fabric, however, is tie-dyed by hand and can be quite beautiful. Fabric will be sold as a mulafa (veil), usually gauzy and one piece, or as material for a boubou, with two separate pieces for a skirt and top. Fabric is sold anywhere for anything from UM 150-800, depending on the fabric quality and work involved. When buying anything in Mauritania, be sure to [[haggling|bargain]]. Sometimes the starting price will be three times the actual price. Stay friendly, but don't worry about insulting anyone by asking for a lower price. ==Eat== [[File:CouscousDromadaire.jpg|thumb|A woman with a plate of camel couscous sure to delight your taste buds!]] Mauritanian cuisine is often overlooked in favour of the more recognisable cuisines of North Africa and the Middle East. Don't let that stop you from fully experiencing Mauritanian gastronomy; Mauritanian cuisine is a unique blend of flavours and incorporates African, Arab, and French influences. There is a decent variety of restaurants in Nouakchott with dishes costing from UM100 to 250. Most restaurants in the capital offer much the same menu - simple pizzas, hamburgers, sandwiches and salads. There is a string of restaurants on the road from the Stade Olympique to the French Embassy. Good ones include Pizza Lina, Café Liban and Le Petit Café. The Sahara Café, on the other side of the stadium, is also a good place for pizza, sandwiches or Lebanese dishes, and has some of the best reasonably-priced food in town. Near Marche Capitale, there is a street of sandwich shops that offer near-identical menus, the best of which is the Prince (which taxi drivers know by name). [[File:IMG-20190510-WA0018.jpg|thumb|Tea time at home.]] Outside of Nouakchott, it is possible to find a hamburger in Atar. Otherwise, the choice is local dishes: fish and rice (chebujin) in the south and rice and meat or couscous in the north. Hole-in-the-wall restaurants can be found everywhere and serve meals from UM 20-50. Mechui, or grilled sheep, is also delicious if a little more expensive. Look for carcasses hanging by the side of the road. Some fruit can be found in most regional capitals. Most restaurants outside of Nouakchott do not have very high standards of cleanliness. Since most small restaurants go under within a few years of opening, your best bet in trying to find one in a regional capital is to just ask locals for directions to whatever is nearby. Another alternative, in the absence of a restaurant, is paying a family to prepare food for you, which should be relatively inexpensive (no more than UM 150), even if it takes a while (up to a couple hours to buy the food and prepare it). Bottled water can be bought for UM 20 and is a good idea for anyone not accustomed to Africa. If none of this sounds good, keep in mind that boutiques everywhere sell bread, cakes, biscuits and drinks if nothing else. Tea is usually served after a meal, but it is not included with the meal at restaurants. If you are offered tea in someone's home, it is impolite to leave until at least the second (of three) glasses. The whole process takes about an hour. ==Drink== Despite being an Islamic country there are a few fun bars in the capital. Drinking can be expensive, with a beer costing up to US$6. There is a nightclub inside the French Embassy compound. For the non-French, try the Salamander or the trashy (but open late) Club VIP. Next door to VIP is the Casablanca, a more low-key bar with live music on the weekends. ''It is illegal to import alcohol'' beyond 0.5 litres, which must be declared. ==Sleep== All ranges of accommodation are available, with the highest class hotels available only in Nouakchott and Atar. "Auberges" and campsites can rent beds/mattresses for as little as UM 150 in the Adrar and Nouadhibou. There is usually at least one hotel in the regional capitals in the rest of the country, although they can be expensive for what you are getting. If possible, make friends with a local and try to get invited to stay with their family. As long as you don't mind sleeping on the ground on a foam mat, sleeping/eating near animals or using a latrine, you will probably end up having a pleasant and memorable stay. ==Learn== The [http://www.una.mr/ '''University of Nouakchott Al Asriya'''] is the largest university in the country. ==Work== Mauritania is a country that has long been associated with a tradition of North-South trade and is favorable to free markets and entrepreneurship. The government welcomes businesses and individuals that can contribute to Mauritania's long-term development because the government is keen on overcoming a history of poverty and economic disarray. Although that sounds impressive, Mauritania is one of the world's poorest countries. With such high rates of poverty, bureaucratic corruption, and illiteracy, Mauritania isn't thought of as a top destination for expatriates. There are not enough jobs for everyone; the country suffers from high levels of unemployment. This is often blamed on a poorly developed educational system. Nepotism is common in the Mauritanian business world. The country's association with tribalism and tribal ties means that there are patronage networks in the country. If you have no knowledge of either [[French]], [[Arabic]], or both, expect things to be an uphill battle; very little English is spoken in Mauritania and you can expect all business transactions and communications to be conducted in either [[French]] or [[Arabic]]. The importance of having connections in the country cannot be overstated. Maintaining good contact with the Mauritanian government and having a degree of influence within the local community will help you or your business succeed in Mauritania. ==Stay safe== {{Cautionbox|Some governments advise against all non-essential travel to Mauritania and all travel to many parts of Mauritania due to the danger posed by extremist jihadist groups. Travel to the eastern and northern desert regions should be avoided. The ability of officials to provide consular assistance is extremely limited. |australia=https://smartraveller.gov.au/countries/africa/west/pages/mauritania.aspx |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mauritania |ireland=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/mauritania/ |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/mauritania |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mauritania |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mauritania-travel-advisory.html |de=https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/mauretaniensicherheit/219190 |lastedit=2023-01-06 }} [[File:PNBA 43.JPG|thumb|Fishing boats in Banc d'Arguin National Park]] The area near Western Sahara is heavily mined, and travel through this area is highly inadvisable. Border areas lining Algeria and Mali are notorious for banditry. The single paved road coming from Morocco is perilous, having been the site of Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) kidnappings. If you must travel on this path, it is best to do so in a tight caravan. In other areas, one should avoid flaunting wealth or expensive wares. Daunting though it may seem, a bit of research and common sense will ensure a pleasant trip in Mauritania. Check your embassy or consulate travel advisories carefully. Due to increasing numbers of attacks on Westerners in the past several years, most Western nations advise great caution. Resident expatriates travel between cities by day, in groups and on major routes. There are certain parts of Mauritania that have been closed to tourists by the Mauritanian armed forces (usually in the eastern and northern portions of the country). Most of these places have little to offer/interest tourists, but occasionally historic sites like [[Chinguetti]] or [[Ouadane]] are included. Check what regions are closed before you plan your trip. === Religious norms=== Mauritania is an Islamic country, and the government recognizes [[Islam]] as the sole religion of its citizens (and indeed Mauritania has one of the highest percentages of its citizens being Muslim in the world at about 99.97%). The bulk of Mauritania's legal code is based on Sharia, which is the corpus of laws established in the Islamic legal tradition. (Mauritania does not apply Sharia as strictly as some other Muslim-majority states like [[Saudi Arabia]], the [[United Arab Emirates|UAE]], or [[Afghanistan]], though.) Under current laws, Mauritanians who convert to other religions lose their citizenship. Under current laws (Article 306 of the Mauritanian penal code), the death penalty is '''statutory''' for apostasy and blasphemy, i.e., criticising or disrespecting religion. It is '''unwise''' to speak badly of Islam, hand out non-Islamic religious literature, or encourage people to participate in religious debates. === LGBT travellers === {{warningbox|Male and female '''same-sex sexual activity''' is a severe offence and is either punishable by death (for men) or a lengthy prison sentence (for women). }} While same-sex activity is illegal in Mauritania and comes with a death penalty, the country has had a moratorium on capital punishment since 1986. As of 2023 there are no known instances of anyone being judicially punished recently for same-sex activities. LGBTQ+ travelers should, however, exercise discretion and caution and avoid public acknowledgement of their sexuality/gender identity for their own safety. ==Stay healthy== For the majority of Westerners, the local [[water]] in any part of the country (including Nouakchott) is not safe to drink. Visitors should drink only bottled water if they don't have access to some type of water purifying or filtration system. The Sahara is a very dry climate. You may become dehydrated quite easily, and not be aware of it. The best rule of thumb is to be sure that you have urinated three times each day, at reasonable intervals. In the hottest part of the year, this might mean drinking several litres of water each day. '''[[Malaria]]''' is endemic in the southern part of the country, and visitors should always use a mosquito net there. Mosquitoes are less common in the dry desert in the north of the country, but exist year-round in the south, if a bit less prevalent during the dry season (December-May). ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} Learn ''Salaam alaykum'' and use it when greeting people. If you are a man, don't try to shake hands with a woman, and vice versa (note that some African women will not have a problem with shaking a man's hand, but it is best to not try to initiate contact, just follow their lead). You can, however, say hello and touch your hand over your heart. Be careful to eat with your right hand, especially outside of Nouakchott where you may not be offered cutlery. Like other places in the Arab world, the left hand is reserved for the toilet. If you're left-handed... try hard. Covering your head isn't required, but it is polite. It may cut down on the ''Madame, ou bien Mademoiselle?'' (Mrs or Miss?) question, but Westerners, especially women, will be the target of unwanted attention and minor harassment everywhere in the country. Many Mauritanians, both male and female, think that a direct gaze is a sexual invitation. There is even a phrase in Hassiniya, ''ayna m'tina'', meaning ''strong eyes'', to describe what many people feel is an aggressive act. This doesn't mean however, that the men have carte blanche to harass. Calling them on their bad behaviour, or pointing it out to the ever present bystanders, can often work. If you give respect, you can demand it also. The Moors respect women who stand up for themselves, even while they push you to see how far they can get. If you are travelling with someone of the opposite sex, avoid touching in public. It's much more common to see two men holding hands than a woman and a man. As far as dress, the more skin you show, the more negative attention you will receive. In Nouakchott, women can wear trousers, but avoid tank tops and to-the-knee skirts. Long skirts are the best choice for women. It is a good idea to cover your arms also. Trousers display the crotch area and thus are also disturbing, especially to people in the countryside who aren't as used to seeing this as the city dwellers. Most people will be very polite, and you will not know what they are thinking. If you are a female, there is no non-sexual reason, ''ever'', to go off in private with a man. If they ask you to step into an office, or back of a shop or anywhere; don't. The men are aware that that is an unreasonable request, and no one would ask you for a private chat if they meant well. If you allow yourself to be alone with a man, for however brief a time, everyone will assume you had sex, and will judge you accordingly. As a weakling, not as dissolute. '''Slavery''' is a sensitive historical and social issue in Mauritania. While there do have laws prohibiting and criminalizing slavery, such practice still persists in the local society, and there are records of government harassment. As a tourist, you are best not to be involved in the situation. If you are white, ''Nasrani'', ''Toubac'' and ''Toubab'' refers to you. Children, and sometimes rude adults, will refer to you by this name. ''Nasrani'' means a person from Nazareth. Since Christians follow Christ's teachings, and Christ is from Nazareth, then Christians are all honorary Nazarenes. Beware of people who may try to take advantage of your politeness in order to try to make a sale. Be aware that in market areas, almost everyone who tries to befriend you is trying to sell you something at an inflated price. They will try many tricks to get you to buy items from them (including "giving them to you as a gift"), and a few might even accuse you of not liking Africans if you decline to look at their souvenir shop. If someone is going beyond the normal limits to bother you, it is not impolite to tell them, without question, that you are not interested. If they ask for something that you own, just say that you need it now, and can give it to them in a month or so. ==Connect== There are three operators of GSM networks: [http://www.mattel.mr Mattel]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (excellent English website), Mauritel Mobiles and [https://www.chinguitel.mr/?lang=en Chinguitel]. Prepaid plans are available for three of them. 3G/4G is available and data speeds are good. For tours into the desert where no GSM-Network is available satellite phones are a good solution. Service providers include Thuraya, Iridium and Inmarsat. Thuraya tends to be the cheapest and the easiest to use. The equipment is also available for rent. Internet cafés with DSL internet can be found in Nouakchott and [[Nouadhibou]] for 200-300 UM/hour. Slower connections plague "cybercafés" elsewhere in the country, but it's possible to check emails. {{geo|21|-11|zoom=6}} {{IsPartOf|Sahel}} {{outlinecountry}} s3k4tapdoe4bqqiurwr5w3sdp0jk0bj 5091294 5091293 2025-07-11T10:11:40Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091294 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Nouakchott (Mauritania) banner Minaret.jpg}} '''Mauritania''' ([[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]: موريتانيا, ''Mūrītānyā''; [[French phrasebook|French]]: Mauritanie) is a land of desert and ocean. It is of course no wonder that the main attractions for most tourists are the desert in Adrar and Tagant areas (around Atar), and the ocean in Banc d'Arguin (a natural reserve with dunes ending in the sea, full of millions of birds and protected by UNESCO). The Mauritanian Adrar is probably exactly how you've always imagined the [[Sahara]]: endless ''ergs'' (dunes) and ''regs'' (rocky desert) with tabular small mountains, but most tourists stay along the west coast of Mauritania. There are a few beautiful sights far into the interior (rock formations in Aioun, for example). If you decide to travel off the beaten path, leave plenty of time to get around. Mauritania is the least developed and poorest country in [[Maghreb|northwest Africa]], and extremist groups pose a danger to visitors. ==Regions== [[Image:Mauritania Regions map.png|thumb|400px|Map of Mauritania with regions colour-coded]] {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Coastal Mauritania]] | region1color=#B9AF8C | region1items= [[Nouakchott]] | region1description=the narrow coastal strip with a crashing Atlantic coastline and the capital city | region2name=[[Sahelian Mauritania]] | region2color=#9AAB61 | region2items= | region2description=semi arid region in the south including the patchily lush Senegal River valley | region3name=[[Saharan Mauritania]] | region3color=#D7D484 | region3items= | region3description=huge northern desert area which is largely very empty }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#B9AF8C|title=[[Coastal Mauritania]]|wikidata=Q14819418}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#9AAB61|title=[[Sahelian Mauritania]]|wikidata=Q14231690}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#D7D484|title=[[Saharan Mauritania]]|wikidata=Q14231683}} ==Cities== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Nouakchott]]|wikidata=Q3688}} (Arabic: '''نواكشوط''') – the capital of Mauritania and one of the largest cities in the [[Sahel]]. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Atar]]|wikidata=Q735645}} is a town in northwestern Mauritania, the capital of the Adrar Region and the main settlement on the Adrar Plateau *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chinguetti]]|wikidata=Q312357}} (Arabic: '''شنقيط''') – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of the Chinguetti Mosque. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Nouadhibou]]|wikidata=Q184184}} (Arabic: '''نواذيبو''') – the second largest city in the country. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tichit]]|wikidata=Q985527}} is a village at the foot of the Tagant Plateau in central southern Mauritania that is known for its vernacular architecture and proximity to the Dhar Tichitt archaeological sites. ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Banc d'Arguin National Park]]|wikidata=Q539518}} — a breeding site for many different species of migratory birds, this coastal national park is a [[world heritage site]]. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMauritania.png}} Southwestern Mauritania was once home to the Ghana Empire, one of the earliest urbanised civilisations to emerge in western Africa, with its capital at [[Koumbi Saleh]]. Mauritania is an Islamic Republic, and the people in the North have a reputation as being very conservative and quite reserved. The southern part of the country is filled with friendly people, and they are very welcoming, if a little unused to tourists. For people from outside the Maghreb there is a risk of kidnapping, especially in the more remote northern and eastern parts. Travelling to Mauritania is becoming easier, with charter flights from France to Atar through the winter. Guides and tourist agencies are quite easy to find. === Politics and government === Mauritania is officially known as the '''Islamic Republic of Mauritania''' ([[Arabic]]: '''الجمهورية الإسلامية الموريتانية''', ''al-Jumhūrīyah al-Islāmīyah al-Mūrītānīyah''), ([[French]]: '''République islamique de Mauritanie''') Along with [[Iran]] and [[Pakistan]], Mauritania is one of the three existing Islamic republics in the world. Mauritania is the only Islamic Republic in [[Africa]]. ===Climate=== [[File:Mauritania desert.jpg|thumb|Much of Mauritania is desert]] The climate is characterized by extremes in temperature and by meagre and irregular rainfall. Annual temperature variations are small, although diurnal variations can be extreme. The ''harmattan'', a hot, dry and often dust-laden wind, blows from the Sahara throughout the long dry season and is the prevailing wind, except along the narrow coastal strip, which is influenced by oceanic trade winds. Most rain falls during the short rainy season (''hivernage''), Jul-Sep, and average annual precipitation varies from 500 to 600 millimetres in the far south to less than 100mm in the northern two-thirds of the country. ===People=== Haratin, sometimes referred to as '''Black Moors''', are the largest single ethnic group in Mauritania, constituting 40% of the population, and are descendants of former slaves. About 30% of the population are Bidhan, also called Moors. The rest of the population mostly consists of members of peoples who also live in neighboring Sahelian countries such as Senegal and Mali, including the Fula, Soninke, Bambara and Wolof. Islam is the main religion in Mauritania and is practiced by virtually all Mauritanians. ==Talk== {{seealso|Arabic phrasebook|French phrasebook}} [[File:Corruption-Nouakchott.jpg|thumb|A billboard with French and Arabic on it]] '''[[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]''' is the official language of Mauritania. The '''Modern Standard dialect''' is the main language of the government, whereas the '''Hassaniya dialect''' is the local vernacular. Hassaniya Arabic contains many loanwords from various Berber languages and differs significantly from Modern Standard Arabic. '''[[French phrasebook|French]]''' is widely spoken, a reminder of the country's colonial heritage. It is taught from the sixth grade in Mauritanian schools and it serves as one of the main lingua francas of the country. It's widely used in everyday business and government. Most websites in Mauritania are either in Arabic or French. '''English''' is not widely spoken, but its use is gradually increasing, especially among young people. Although the government encourages its citizens to study English, many English-teaching institutions in Mauritania are poorly structured and lack direction. Still, Mauritanians see English as an important skill to have in the job market. You're likely to find an English-speaker in the capital, [[Nouakchott]]. Some of the languages spoken by Mauritania's black population in the south are '''Pulaar''', '''[[Wolof phrasebook|Wolof]]''', and '''[[Soninke phrasebook|Soninke]]''' (especially in the Guidimakha region around Selibaby). ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Mauritania.svg|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Mauritania, with countries in green having visa-free access. ]] ===Entry requirements=== Mauritania's visa policy has changed as of January 2025. Most travellers will need to apply for an E-Visa [https://anrpts.gov.mr/visa/requestvisa here]. It is normally approved within 1-3 business days, although delays can happen at any time due to corruption and the fact that tourism is really not a large priority for the government. If you are looking for a quick way to get your visa approved, it may be best to try to find a contact within the country and ask. You can, if you like, obtain a visa from a Mauritanian embassy. For instance, it can be arranged in [[Rabat]], where a single entry visa fee is 1,000 [[Morocco#Money|dirham]]. A double entry visa is also available for 1,100 dirham. Two passport-size photos are required, as well as a copy of the information pages of your passport. Visas are available on the same day in the afternoon if applied for in the morning for most nationalities. ===By plane=== '''Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport''' ({{IATA|NKC}}) is the base for Mauritania Airlines, which flies from Conakry, [[Bamako]], [[Dakar]], [[Casablanca]], [[Abidjan]], Nema, Zouerat, and [[Nouadhibou]]. It also receives flights from [[Algiers]] on Air Algérie and from [[Paris]] on [http://www.airfrance.com/indexCOM.html Air France]. Tunisair has flights from [[Tunis]], Air Senegal has flights from Dakar, Turkish airlines has flights from [[Istanbul]], Royal Air Maroc has flights from [[Casablanca]], Binter Canarias flies from [[Gran Canaria]]. '''Nouadhibou International Airport''' ({{IATA|NDB}}) receives flights from Gran Canaria with Mauritania Airlines. ===By car=== [[File:Border-Senegal-from-Mauretania.JPG|thumb|Border between Senegal and Mauritania]] Mauritania has open road borders with [[Western Sahara]], [[Mali]] and [[Senegal]]. These borders are open to crossing by private motor vehicle or bicycle but the first two are extremely dangerous. The road from the Western Sahara/[[Morocco]] enters the country near [[Nouadhibou]]. The road is paved all the way to the Moroccan border post in Fort Guerguarat, where one has to traverse about 7 km of twisting, stony, but straightforward pistes to reach the Mauritanian border, where the tarred road begins again. Although the driving is simple, care should be taken not to leave the well-worn pistes between the two border posts, because the area is a mine field. This danger is still present once you reach the tar on the Mauritanian side, and the area is not considered mine-free until you pass the railway line. The crossing formalities are straightforward. Transit visas, valid for 3 days, can no longer be bought at the border, although this may change. There is a bureau de change at the border, and a vehicle insurance office and numerous hopeful guides for making the old desert crossing to the capital. There are numerous pistes running across the Mauritanian border from Mali. These is a new tar road connecting [[Nara]] in Mali to [[Ayoun al Atrous]] in Mauritania. The border formalities in Mali are completed at various buildings around Nara town (local children will lead you to the police or customs for a small present). The Mauritanian formalities are conducted at a string of road-blocks along the border road. An alternative land route which goes direct from Mauritania to [[Timbuktu]], Mali is to travel the road Southeast from [[Néma]], which is at the end of a good tarred road from [[Nouakchott]]. This dirt road continues to [[Bassekounou]] before crossing the border near [[Léré]], Mali, where it improves to a good dirt road to [[Niafunké]] and on to Timbuktu. There is also a border crossing with [[Algeria]] between [[Zouerate]] and [[Tindouf]], but the location is ''extremely'' remote, with 700 km of Saharan desert between the two cities. As of 2024, the area is considered a military zone and travellers are rarely granted permission to use it. ===By bus/bush taxi=== *From '''Morocco''': Supratours runs a bus to the border at Guerguerat. It departs from the Dakhla waterfront at 08:00 and arrives at the frontier at 13:00 for 160 dirham, 15:00 from the frontier to Dakhla at 20:30. Access is available by hitching with overlanders from Dakhla (most can be picked up from Camping Moussafir just north of Dakhla) or from the Mauritanian embassy in [[Rabat]], or by paying for passage with Mauritanian traders. These can be found opposite the first police checkpoint north of Dakhla, the going rate is 250-380 dirham (negotiable) the ride should be started rather early and takes most of the day and border crossing is closed overnight. Cars with experienced drivers can be organized from Hotel Sahara (the budget one). This costs around 250 dirham per person. *To '''Morocco''': Cars with drivers can be arranged to cross the minefield to Mauritania from Western Sahara from hotels in Nouadhibou. *From '''Senegal''': Bush taxis can be taken from Dakar (6,000 [[Senegal#Money|CFA francs]]) and St Louis (2,000 CFA francs) (amongst others) to Rosso, where a ferry makes the trip across the Senegal river, and further bush taxis can be taken to Nouakchott (about 200 ouguiya). Be careful of bush taxis offering deals that seem too good to be true. They may be illegal taxis and could prove to be a dangerous means of transport. There will most likely be a number of drivers waiting. Ask around and find out the going rate. Other crossing points from Senegal include the Diama dam just north of St Louis, public transport also operates on this route. *From '''Mali''': Pickup trucks leave Kayes for Selibaby daily. It is also possible to enter at Nema, and across the southern border at several points. ==Get around== [[Image:Eisenerzzug.jpg|thumb|The train snakes through the Mauritanian desert.]] {{mapframe}} Make sure to have plenty of passport copies for travelling between towns. It’s not uncommon to give away up to 5-10 passport copies a day to police at checkpoints. ===By taxi=== Taxis are normally available at airports. Negotiating a good fare requires solid [[Arabic]] and/or [[French]] skills. Some countries, such as the United States, advise their citizens to not use Mauritanian taxis because they are poorly maintained. If you must get around a city, only use trusted, pre-arranged taxis. Your hotel or your tour agent may help you with this. Ride-hailing is available in Mauritania. * {{go | name=Classride | alt= | url=https://classride.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-08 | content=A Mauritanian ridesharing company. Works in [[Nouakchott]]. }} ===By train=== The Mauritanian rail network is limited and underdeveloped. As of 2023, there's only one train line linking the following cities: the [[Iron Ore Train]], between [[Nouadhibou]], [[Choum]] and [[Zouerat]]. The rail network is mainly used to transport iron ore from mines in [[Zouerat]] to the port in [[Nouadhibou]], but some people ride on it to travel to other cities. The full journey takes about twenty hours. Although this may seem like a good way to explore the Saharan desert, keep in mind that the train can be overcrowded, it can be quite uncomfortable, and that it is depressingly common for people to fall from the train. The scorching hot temperatures of the Saharan Desert can make things even more uncomfortable and difficult. If you are not acclimatised or used to travelling in difficult conditions, travelling by train is not advisable. The train departs daily from Nouadhibou at around 15:00 and arrives in Choum (for Atar) at around 02:00 the next morning. Check departure times on arrival. There is only one passenger carriage, but travel in an iron ore hopper is also possible (and may be advisable, as the passenger car is usually overcrowded and tickets are required, though as of 2024 railway authorities declared an inconsistently-enforced ban on foreign tourists travelling in the hoppers). There is also first-class accommodation, seats are limited, but they allow access to a smaller room with bunk beds. Although it does not necessarily ensure more comfort. Ticket price is 300 ouguiya (2025) for second class in the passenger carriage and travel in the hopper is free of charge. Remember to have a scarf to cover your face, as there is a lot of dust. From [[Choum]] it's possible to get to Atar with a bush taxi or minibus which often wait by the tracks when the train arrives. The journey typically takes about two hours (but could take much longer if the vehicle has a breakdown). ==See== [[Image:Chinguetti mosquee.jpg|thumb|Great Friday mosque in [[Chinguetti]].]] The '''Adrar''' massif in the north is full of stunning desert scenery. Take a 4x4 off-piste across rocky terrain and through narrow canyons to explore the lush, hidden oases which have provided water and refuge to traders crossing the Sahara for centuries. The Adrar contains two of the country's magnificent historical cities. '''Chinguetti''' was once a trading centre and centre of Islamic scholarship whose architecture remains unchanged in nearly a millennium. Along with '''Ouadane''' and a few other small towns, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And do not miss the '''world's longest train''' either just for a glimpse or to hop into an iron ore car filled with Mauritanians for the 12-hour journey from the Adrar to the coast. The remains of the Almoravid capital '''Azoughui''', and rock paintings, are draws of the Adrar. [[File:L'ancienne ville de Ouadane.jpg|thumb|Ancient city of Ouadane]] Much of the central coastline is part of '''Parc National du Banc d'Arguin''', home to millions of migrating birds each year. At Nouamgar, you can watch the unique spectacle of local tribesmen communicating with dolphins to round up teams of fish into shallow waters for them to be netted. In the southeast, the oasis city of '''Oualata''' was the southern end of most trans-Sahara trading routes in the 13th & 14th centuries. The city has colourful buildings, many of which feature intricate geometric designs. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also boasts a manuscript museum with examples of ancient scrolls in fine calligraphy. ==Do== * Visiting the '''Hamoni library''' in Chinguetti ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mauritanian ouguiya | currencyCode=UM | date=January 2025 | USD=40 | EUR=46 | GBP=54 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mru-mauritanian-ouguiya XE.com] }} The country's currency is the '''Mauritanian ouguiya''' (pron. oo-gee-ya), denoted by the symbol "'''UM'''" or "'''أوقية‎‎'''" (ISO code: '''MRU'''). It was revalued in Dec 2017: 10 old UM (ISO: MRO) = 1 new UM (MRU). Prices are occasionally still written in the old MRO system, especially in restaurants and hotels that cater to westerners, so don't be put off by the seemingly high prices. You are ''not allowed'' to take Mauritanian ouguiyas out of Mauritania. Coins are issued in denominations of 1 khoums ({{frac|5}} ouguiya), UM 1, 2, 5, 10 (silver center with yellow ring) and 20 (tri-metallic coin with a yellow center plug, silver middle ring and yellow outer ring). Banknotes are issued in denominations of UM 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000. All of the banknotes issued in 2017 are printed entirely on polymer. Mauritania is poorly connected to the international banking system. ATMs in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou now accept international Visa cards at banks such as BNP, Attijari. It is easy to change euros, US dollars and CFA francs in Nouakchott. Cash may not be available at all ATMs, especially in regional Mauritania, so don't solely rely on ATMs for currency. *'''Societe Generale''' ATMs in Nouakchott and Nouadibou accepts both international Mastercard and Visa cards for cash withdraw. ===Shopping=== [[Image:Fish market nouakchott mauritania.JPG|thumb|Fisherman's market near [[Nouakchott]].]] Souvenirs can be bought at Marché Capital or Marché Sixième in Nouakchott, or at tourist shops in the Adrar. Fabric will be sold in boutiques all over the country, but Kaedi is famous for its tie-dying. In general, the quality of most Mauritanian souvenirs is not as good as one might expect. Typical souvenirs include leather products, pipes, wooden bowls, tea pots and silver jewellery; be careful about the quality of jewellery. Fabric, however, is tie-dyed by hand and can be quite beautiful. Fabric will be sold as a mulafa (veil), usually gauzy and one piece, or as material for a boubou, with two separate pieces for a skirt and top. Fabric is sold anywhere for anything from UM 150-800, depending on the fabric quality and work involved. When buying anything in Mauritania, be sure to [[haggling|bargain]]. Sometimes the starting price will be three times the actual price. Stay friendly, but don't worry about insulting anyone by asking for a lower price. ==Eat== [[File:CouscousDromadaire.jpg|thumb|A woman with a plate of camel couscous sure to delight your taste buds!]] Mauritanian cuisine is often overlooked in favour of the more recognisable cuisines of North Africa and the Middle East. Don't let that stop you from fully experiencing Mauritanian gastronomy; Mauritanian cuisine is a unique blend of flavours and incorporates African, Arab, and French influences. There is a decent variety of restaurants in Nouakchott with dishes costing from UM100 to 250. Most restaurants in the capital offer much the same menu - simple pizzas, hamburgers, sandwiches and salads. There is a string of restaurants on the road from the Stade Olympique to the French Embassy. Good ones include Pizza Lina, Café Liban and Le Petit Café. The Sahara Café, on the other side of the stadium, is also a good place for pizza, sandwiches or Lebanese dishes, and has some of the best reasonably-priced food in town. Near Marche Capitale, there is a street of sandwich shops that offer near-identical menus, the best of which is the Prince (which taxi drivers know by name). [[File:IMG-20190510-WA0018.jpg|thumb|Tea time at home.]] Outside of Nouakchott, it is possible to find a hamburger in Atar. Otherwise, the choice is local dishes: fish and rice (chebujin) in the south and rice and meat or couscous in the north. Hole-in-the-wall restaurants can be found everywhere and serve meals from UM 20-50. Mechui, or grilled sheep, is also delicious if a little more expensive. Look for carcasses hanging by the side of the road. Some fruit can be found in most regional capitals. Most restaurants outside of Nouakchott do not have very high standards of cleanliness. Since most small restaurants go under within a few years of opening, your best bet in trying to find one in a regional capital is to just ask locals for directions to whatever is nearby. Another alternative, in the absence of a restaurant, is paying a family to prepare food for you, which should be relatively inexpensive (no more than UM 150), even if it takes a while (up to a couple hours to buy the food and prepare it). Bottled water can be bought for UM 20 and is a good idea for anyone not accustomed to Africa. If none of this sounds good, keep in mind that boutiques everywhere sell bread, cakes, biscuits and drinks if nothing else. Tea is usually served after a meal, but it is not included with the meal at restaurants. If you are offered tea in someone's home, it is impolite to leave until at least the second (of three) glasses. The whole process takes about an hour. ==Drink== Despite being an Islamic country there are a few fun bars in the capital. Drinking can be expensive, with a beer costing up to US$6. There is a nightclub inside the French Embassy compound. For the non-French, try the Salamander or the trashy (but open late) Club VIP. Next door to VIP is the Casablanca, a more low-key bar with live music on the weekends. ''It is illegal to import alcohol'' beyond 0.5 litres, which must be declared. ==Sleep== All ranges of accommodation are available, with the highest class hotels available only in Nouakchott and Atar. "Auberges" and campsites can rent beds/mattresses for as little as UM 150 in the Adrar and Nouadhibou. There is usually at least one hotel in the regional capitals in the rest of the country, although they can be expensive for what you are getting. If possible, make friends with a local and try to get invited to stay with their family. As long as you don't mind sleeping on the ground on a foam mat, sleeping/eating near animals or using a latrine, you will probably end up having a pleasant and memorable stay. ==Learn== The [http://www.una.mr/ '''University of Nouakchott Al Asriya'''] is the largest university in the country. ==Work== Mauritania is a country that has long been associated with a tradition of North-South trade and is favorable to free markets and entrepreneurship. The government welcomes businesses and individuals that can contribute to Mauritania's long-term development because the government is keen on overcoming a history of poverty and economic disarray. Although that sounds impressive, Mauritania is one of the world's poorest countries. With such high rates of poverty, bureaucratic corruption, and illiteracy, Mauritania isn't thought of as a top destination for expatriates. There are not enough jobs for everyone; the country suffers from high levels of unemployment. This is often blamed on a poorly developed educational system. Nepotism is common in the Mauritanian business world. The country's association with tribalism and tribal ties means that there are patronage networks in the country. If you have no knowledge of either [[French]], [[Arabic]], or both, expect things to be an uphill battle; very little English is spoken in Mauritania and you can expect all business transactions and communications to be conducted in either [[French]] or [[Arabic]]. The importance of having connections in the country cannot be overstated. Maintaining good contact with the Mauritanian government and having a degree of influence within the local community will help you or your business succeed in Mauritania. ==Stay safe== {{Cautionbox|Some governments advise against all non-essential travel to Mauritania and all travel to many parts of Mauritania due to the danger posed by extremist jihadist groups. Travel to the eastern and northern desert regions should be avoided. The ability of officials to provide consular assistance is extremely limited. |australia=https://smartraveller.gov.au/countries/africa/west/pages/mauritania.aspx |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mauritania |ireland=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/mauritania/ |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/mauritania |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mauritania |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mauritania-travel-advisory.html |de=https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/mauretaniensicherheit/219190 |lastedit=2023-01-06 }} [[File:PNBA 43.JPG|thumb|Fishing boats in Banc d'Arguin National Park]] The area near Western Sahara is heavily mined, and travel through this area is highly inadvisable. Border areas lining Algeria and Mali are notorious for banditry. The single paved road coming from Morocco is perilous, having been the site of Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) kidnappings. If you must travel on this path, it is best to do so in a tight caravan. In other areas, one should avoid flaunting wealth or expensive wares. Daunting though it may seem, a bit of research and common sense will ensure a pleasant trip in Mauritania. Check your embassy or consulate travel advisories carefully. Due to increasing numbers of attacks on Westerners in the past several years, most Western nations advise great caution. Resident expatriates travel between cities by day, in groups and on major routes. There are certain parts of Mauritania that have been closed to tourists by the Mauritanian armed forces (usually in the eastern and northern portions of the country). Most of these places have little to offer/interest tourists, but occasionally historic sites like [[Chinguetti]] or [[Ouadane]] are included. Check what regions are closed before you plan your trip. === Religious norms=== Mauritania is an Islamic country, and the government recognizes [[Islam]] as the sole religion of its citizens (and indeed Mauritania has one of the highest percentages of its citizens being Muslim in the world at about 99.97%). The bulk of Mauritania's legal code is based on Sharia, which is the corpus of laws established in the Islamic legal tradition. (Mauritania does not apply Sharia as strictly as some other Muslim-majority states like [[Saudi Arabia]], the [[United Arab Emirates|UAE]], or [[Afghanistan]], though.) Under current laws, Mauritanians who convert to other religions lose their citizenship. Under current laws (Article 306 of the Mauritanian penal code), the death penalty is '''statutory''' for apostasy and blasphemy, i.e., criticising or disrespecting religion. It is '''unwise''' to speak badly of Islam, hand out non-Islamic religious literature, or encourage people to participate in religious debates. === LGBT travellers === {{warningbox|Male and female '''same-sex sexual activity''' is a severe offence and is either punishable by death (for men) or a lengthy prison sentence (for women). }} While same-sex activity is illegal in Mauritania and comes with a death penalty, the country has had a moratorium on capital punishment since 1986. As of 2023 there are no known instances of anyone being judicially punished recently for same-sex activities. LGBTQ+ travelers should, however, exercise discretion and caution and avoid public acknowledgement of their sexuality/gender identity for their own safety. ==Stay healthy== For the majority of Westerners, the local [[water]] in any part of the country (including Nouakchott) is not safe to drink. Visitors should drink only bottled water if they don't have access to some type of water purifying or filtration system. The Sahara is a very dry climate. You may become dehydrated quite easily, and not be aware of it. The best rule of thumb is to be sure that you have urinated three times each day, at reasonable intervals. In the hottest part of the year, this might mean drinking several litres of water each day. '''[[Malaria]]''' is endemic in the southern part of the country, and visitors should always use a mosquito net there. Mosquitoes are less common in the dry desert in the north of the country, but exist year-round in the south, if a bit less prevalent during the dry season (December-May). ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} Learn ''Salaam alaykum'' and use it when greeting people. If you are a man, don't try to shake hands with a woman, and vice versa (note that some African women will not have a problem with shaking a man's hand, but it is best to not try to initiate contact, just follow their lead). You can, however, say hello and touch your hand over your heart. Be careful to eat with your right hand, especially outside of Nouakchott where you may not be offered cutlery. Like other places in the Arab world, the left hand is reserved for the toilet. If you're left-handed... try hard. Covering your head isn't required, but it is polite. It may cut down on the ''Madame, ou bien Mademoiselle?'' (Mrs or Miss?) question, but Westerners, especially women, will be the target of unwanted attention and minor harassment everywhere in the country. Many Mauritanians, both male and female, think that a direct gaze is a sexual invitation. There is even a phrase in Hassiniya, ''ayna m'tina'', meaning ''strong eyes'', to describe what many people feel is an aggressive act. This doesn't mean however, that the men have carte blanche to harass. Calling them on their bad behaviour, or pointing it out to the ever present bystanders, can often work. If you give respect, you can demand it also. The Moors respect women who stand up for themselves, even while they push you to see how far they can get. If you are travelling with someone of the opposite sex, avoid touching in public. It's much more common to see two men holding hands than a woman and a man. As far as dress, the more skin you show, the more negative attention you will receive. In Nouakchott, women can wear trousers, but avoid tank tops and to-the-knee skirts. Long skirts are the best choice for women. It is a good idea to cover your arms also. Trousers display the crotch area and thus are also disturbing, especially to people in the countryside who aren't as used to seeing this as the city dwellers. Most people will be very polite, and you will not know what they are thinking. If you are a female, there is no non-sexual reason, ''ever'', to go off in private with a man. If they ask you to step into an office, or back of a shop or anywhere; don't. The men are aware that that is an unreasonable request, and no one would ask you for a private chat if they meant well. If you allow yourself to be alone with a man, for however brief a time, everyone will assume you had sex, and will judge you accordingly. As a weakling, not as dissolute. '''Slavery''' is a sensitive historical and social issue in Mauritania. While there do have laws prohibiting and criminalizing slavery, such practice still persists in the local society, and there are records of government harassment. As a tourist, you are best not to be involved in the situation. If you are white, ''Nasrani'', ''Toubac'' and ''Toubab'' refers to you. Children, and sometimes rude adults, will refer to you by this name. ''Nasrani'' means a person from Nazareth. Since Christians follow Christ's teachings, and Christ is from Nazareth, then Christians are all honorary Nazarenes. Beware of people who may try to take advantage of your politeness in order to try to make a sale. Be aware that in market areas, almost everyone who tries to befriend you is trying to sell you something at an inflated price. They will try many tricks to get you to buy items from them (including "giving them to you as a gift"), and a few might even accuse you of not liking Africans if you decline to look at their souvenir shop. If someone is going beyond the normal limits to bother you, it is not impolite to tell them, without question, that you are not interested. If they ask for something that you own, just say that you need it now, and can give it to them in a month or so. ==Connect== There are three operators of GSM networks: [http://www.mattel.mr Mattel]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (excellent English website), Mauritel Mobiles and [https://www.chinguitel.mr/?lang=en Chinguitel]. Prepaid plans are available for three of them. 3G/4G is available and data speeds are good. For tours into the desert where no GSM-Network is available satellite phones are a good solution. Service providers include Thuraya, Iridium and Inmarsat. Thuraya tends to be the cheapest and the easiest to use. The equipment is also available for rent. Internet cafés with DSL internet can be found in Nouakchott and [[Nouadhibou]] for 200-300 UM/hour. Slower connections plague "cybercafés" elsewhere in the country, but it's possible to check emails. {{geo|21|-11|zoom=6}} {{IsPartOf|Sahel}} {{outlinecountry}} pz4ry402jhhtrttmokjdo0l6q1u7qsh 5091295 5091294 2025-07-11T10:12:00Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091295 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Nouakchott (Mauritania) banner Minaret.jpg}} '''Mauritania''' ([[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]: موريتانيا, ''Mūrītānyā''; [[French phrasebook|French]]: Mauritanie) is a land of desert and ocean. It is of course no wonder that the main attractions for most tourists are the desert in Adrar and Tagant areas (around Atar), and the ocean in Banc d'Arguin (a natural reserve with dunes ending in the sea, full of millions of birds and protected by UNESCO). The Mauritanian Adrar is probably exactly how you've always imagined the [[Sahara]]: endless ''ergs'' (dunes) and ''regs'' (rocky desert) with tabular small mountains, but most tourists stay along the west coast of Mauritania. There are a few beautiful sights far into the interior (rock formations in Aioun, for example). If you decide to travel off the beaten path, leave plenty of time to get around. Mauritania is the least developed and poorest country in [[Maghreb|northwest Africa]], and extremist groups pose a danger to visitors. ==Regions== [[Image:Mauritania Regions map.png|thumb|400px|Map of Mauritania with regions colour-coded]] {{Regionlist | region1name=[[Coastal Mauritania]] | region1color=#B9AF8C | region1items= [[Nouakchott]] | region1description=the narrow coastal strip with a crashing Atlantic coastline and the capital city | region2name=[[Sahelian Mauritania]] | region2color=#9AAB61 | region2items= | region2description=semi arid region in the south including the patchily lush Senegal River valley | region3name=[[Saharan Mauritania]] | region3color=#D7D484 | region3items= | region3description=huge northern desert area which is largely very empty }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#B9AF8C|title=[[Coastal Mauritania]]|wikidata=Q14819418}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#9AAB61|title=[[Sahelian Mauritania]]|wikidata=Q14231690}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#D7D484|title=[[Saharan Mauritania]]|wikidata=Q14231683}} ==Cities== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Nouakchott]]|wikidata=Q3688}} (Arabic: '''نواكشوط''') – the capital of Mauritania and one of the largest cities in the [[Sahel]]. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Atar]]|wikidata=Q735645}} is a town in northwestern Mauritania, the capital of the Adrar Region and the main settlement on the Adrar Plateau *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chinguetti]]|wikidata=Q312357}} (Arabic: '''شنقيط''') – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of the Chinguetti Mosque. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Nouadhibou]]|wikidata=Q184184}} (Arabic: '''نواذيبو''') – the second largest city in the country. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tichit]]|wikidata=Q985527}} is a village at the foot of the Tagant Plateau in central southern Mauritania that is known for its vernacular architecture and proximity to the Dhar Tichitt archaeological sites. ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Banc d'Arguin National Park]]|wikidata=Q539518}} — a breeding site for many different species of migratory birds, this coastal national park is a [[world heritage site]]. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMauritania.png}} Southwestern Mauritania was once home to the Ghana Empire, one of the earliest urbanised civilisations to emerge in western Africa, with its capital at [[Koumbi Saleh]]. Mauritania is an Islamic Republic, and the people in the North have a reputation as being very conservative and quite reserved. The southern part of the country is filled with friendly people, and they are very welcoming, if a little unused to tourists. For people from outside the Maghreb there is a risk of kidnapping, especially in the more remote northern and eastern parts. Travelling to Mauritania is becoming easier, with charter flights from France to Atar through the winter. Guides and tourist agencies are quite easy to find. === Politics and government === Mauritania is officially known as the '''Islamic Republic of Mauritania''' ([[Arabic]]: '''الجمهورية الإسلامية الموريتانية''', ''al-Jumhūrīyah al-Islāmīyah al-Mūrītānīyah''), ([[French]]: '''République islamique de Mauritanie''') Along with [[Iran]] and [[Pakistan]], Mauritania is one of the three existing Islamic republics in the world. Mauritania is the only Islamic Republic in [[Africa]]. ===Climate=== [[File:Mauritania desert.jpg|thumb|Much of Mauritania is desert]] The climate is characterized by extremes in temperature and by meagre and irregular rainfall. Annual temperature variations are small, although diurnal variations can be extreme. The ''harmattan'', a hot, dry and often dust-laden wind, blows from the Sahara throughout the long dry season and is the prevailing wind, except along the narrow coastal strip, which is influenced by oceanic trade winds. Most rain falls during the short rainy season (''hivernage''), Jul-Sep, and average annual precipitation varies from 500 to 600 millimetres in the far south to less than 100mm in the northern two-thirds of the country. ===People=== Haratin, sometimes referred to as '''Black Moors''', are the largest single ethnic group in Mauritania, constituting 40% of the population, and are descendants of former slaves. About 30% of the population are Bidhan, also called Moors. The rest of the population mostly consists of members of peoples who also live in neighboring Sahelian countries such as Senegal and Mali, including the Fula, Soninke, Bambara and Wolof. Islam is the main religion in Mauritania and is practiced by virtually all Mauritanians. ==Talk== {{seealso|Arabic phrasebook|French phrasebook}} [[File:Corruption-Nouakchott.jpg|thumb|A billboard with French and Arabic on it]] '''[[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]''' is the official language of Mauritania. The '''Modern Standard dialect''' is the main language of the government, whereas the '''Hassaniya dialect''' is the local vernacular. Hassaniya Arabic contains many loanwords from various Berber languages and differs significantly from Modern Standard Arabic. '''[[French phrasebook|French]]''' is widely spoken, a reminder of the country's colonial heritage. It is taught from the sixth grade in Mauritanian schools and it serves as one of the main lingua francas of the country. It's widely used in everyday business and government. Most websites in Mauritania are either in Arabic or French. '''English''' is not widely spoken, but its use is gradually increasing, especially among young people. Although the government encourages its citizens to study English, many English-teaching institutions in Mauritania are poorly structured and lack direction. Still, Mauritanians see English as an important skill to have in the job market. You're likely to find an English-speaker in the capital, [[Nouakchott]]. Some of the languages spoken by Mauritania's black population in the south are '''Pulaar''', '''[[Wolof phrasebook|Wolof]]''', and '''[[Soninke phrasebook|Soninke]]''' (especially in the Guidimakha region around Selibaby). ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Mauritania.svg|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Mauritania, with countries in green having visa-free access. ]] ===Entry requirements=== Mauritania's visa policy has changed as of January 2025. Most travellers will need to apply for an E-Visa [https://anrpts.gov.mr/visa/requestvisa here]. It is normally approved within 1-3 business days, although delays can happen at any time due to corruption and the fact that tourism is really not a large priority for the government. If you are looking for a quick way to get your visa approved, it may be best to try to find a contact within the country and ask. You can, if you like, obtain a visa from a Mauritanian embassy. For instance, it can be arranged in [[Rabat]], where a single entry visa fee is 1,000 [[Morocco#Money|dirham]]. A double entry visa is also available for 1,100 dirham. Two passport-size photos are required, as well as a copy of the information pages of your passport. Visas are available on the same day in the afternoon if applied for in the morning for most nationalities. ===By plane=== '''Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport''' ({{IATA|NKC}}) is the base for Mauritania Airlines, which flies from Conakry, [[Bamako]], [[Dakar]], [[Casablanca]], [[Abidjan]], Nema, Zouerat, and [[Nouadhibou]]. It also receives flights from [[Algiers]] on Air Algérie and from [[Paris]] on [http://www.airfrance.com/indexCOM.html Air France]. Tunisair has flights from [[Tunis]], Air Senegal has flights from Dakar, Turkish airlines has flights from [[Istanbul]], Royal Air Maroc has flights from [[Casablanca]], Binter Canarias flies from [[Gran Canaria]]. '''Nouadhibou International Airport''' ({{IATA|NDB}}) receives flights from Gran Canaria with Mauritania Airlines. ===By car=== [[File:Border-Senegal-from-Mauretania.JPG|thumb|Border between Senegal and Mauritania]] Mauritania has open road borders with [[Western Sahara]], [[Mali]] and [[Senegal]]. These borders are open to crossing by private motor vehicle or bicycle but the first two are extremely dangerous. The road from the Western Sahara/[[Morocco]] enters the country near [[Nouadhibou]]. The road is paved all the way to the Moroccan border post in Fort Guerguarat, where one has to traverse about 7 km of twisting, stony, but straightforward pistes to reach the Mauritanian border, where the tarred road begins again. Although the driving is simple, care should be taken not to leave the well-worn pistes between the two border posts, because the area is a mine field. This danger is still present once you reach the tar on the Mauritanian side, and the area is not considered mine-free until you pass the railway line. The crossing formalities are straightforward. Transit visas, valid for 3 days, can no longer be bought at the border, although this may change. There is a bureau de change at the border, and a vehicle insurance office and numerous hopeful guides for making the old desert crossing to the capital. There are numerous pistes running across the Mauritanian border from Mali. These is a new tar road connecting [[Nara]] in Mali to [[Ayoun al Atrous]] in Mauritania. The border formalities in Mali are completed at various buildings around Nara town (local children will lead you to the police or customs for a small present). The Mauritanian formalities are conducted at a string of road-blocks along the border road. An alternative land route which goes direct from Mauritania to [[Timbuktu]], Mali is to travel the road Southeast from [[Néma]], which is at the end of a good tarred road from [[Nouakchott]]. This dirt road continues to [[Bassekounou]] before crossing the border near [[Léré]], Mali, where it improves to a good dirt road to [[Niafunké]] and on to Timbuktu. There is also a border crossing with [[Algeria]] between [[Zouerate]] and [[Tindouf]], but the location is ''extremely'' remote, with 700 km of Saharan desert between the two cities. As of 2024, the area is considered a military zone and travellers are rarely granted permission to use it. ===By bus/bush taxi=== *From '''Morocco''': Supratours runs a bus to the border at Guerguerat. It departs from the Dakhla waterfront at 08:00 and arrives at the frontier at 13:00 for 160 dirham, 15:00 from the frontier to Dakhla at 20:30. Access is available by hitching with overlanders from Dakhla (most can be picked up from Camping Moussafir just north of Dakhla) or from the Mauritanian embassy in [[Rabat]], or by paying for passage with Mauritanian traders. These can be found opposite the first police checkpoint north of Dakhla, the going rate is 250-380 dirham (negotiable) the ride should be started rather early and takes most of the day and border crossing is closed overnight. Cars with experienced drivers can be organized from Hotel Sahara (the budget one). This costs around 250 dirham per person. *To '''Morocco''': Cars with drivers can be arranged to cross the minefield to Mauritania from Western Sahara from hotels in Nouadhibou. *From '''Senegal''': Bush taxis can be taken from Dakar (6,000 [[Senegal#Money|CFA francs]]) and St Louis (2,000 CFA francs) (amongst others) to Rosso, where a ferry makes the trip across the Senegal river, and further bush taxis can be taken to Nouakchott (about 200 ouguiya). Be careful of bush taxis offering deals that seem too good to be true. They may be illegal taxis and could prove to be a dangerous means of transport. There will most likely be a number of drivers waiting. Ask around and find out the going rate. Other crossing points from Senegal include the Diama dam just north of St Louis, public transport also operates on this route. *From '''Mali''': Pickup trucks leave Kayes for Selibaby daily. It is also possible to enter at Nema, and across the southern border at several points. ==Get around== [[Image:Eisenerzzug.jpg|thumb|The train snakes through the Mauritanian desert.]] {{mapframe}} Make sure to have plenty of passport copies for travelling between towns. It’s not uncommon to give away up to 5-10 passport copies a day to police at checkpoints. ===By taxi=== Taxis are normally available at airports. Negotiating a good fare requires solid [[Arabic]] and/or [[French]] skills. Some countries, such as the United States, advise their citizens to not use Mauritanian taxis because they are poorly maintained. If you must get around a city, only use trusted, pre-arranged taxis. Your hotel or your tour agent may help you with this. Ride-hailing is available in Mauritania. * {{go | name=Classride | alt= | url=https://classride.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-08 | content=A Mauritanian ridesharing company. Works in [[Nouakchott]]. }} ===By train=== The Mauritanian rail network is limited and underdeveloped. As of 2023, there's only one train line linking the following cities: the [[Iron Ore Train]], between [[Nouadhibou]], [[Choum]] and [[Zouerat]]. The rail network is mainly used to transport iron ore from mines in [[Zouerat]] to the port in [[Nouadhibou]], but some people ride on it to travel to other cities. The full journey takes about twenty hours. Although this may seem like a good way to explore the Saharan desert, keep in mind that the train can be overcrowded, it can be quite uncomfortable, and that it is depressingly common for people to fall from the train. The scorching hot temperatures of the Saharan Desert can make things even more uncomfortable and difficult. If you are not acclimatised or used to travelling in difficult conditions, travelling by train is not advisable. The train departs daily from Nouadhibou at around 15:00 and arrives in Choum (for Atar) at around 02:00 the next morning. Check departure times on arrival. There is only one passenger carriage, but travel in an iron ore hopper is also possible (and may be advisable, as the passenger car is usually overcrowded and tickets are required, though as of 2024 railway authorities declared an inconsistently-enforced ban on foreign tourists travelling in the hoppers). There is also first-class accommodation, seats are limited, but they allow access to a smaller room with bunk beds. Although it does not necessarily ensure more comfort. Ticket price is 300 ouguiya (2025) for second class in the passenger carriage and travel in the hopper is free of charge. Remember to have a scarf to cover your face, as there is a lot of dust. From [[Choum]] it's possible to get to Atar with a bush taxi or minibus which often wait by the tracks when the train arrives. The journey typically takes about two hours (but could take much longer if the vehicle has a breakdown). ==See== [[Image:Chinguetti mosquee.jpg|thumb|Great Friday mosque in [[Chinguetti]].]] The '''Adrar''' massif in the north is full of stunning desert scenery. Take a 4x4 off-piste across rocky terrain and through narrow canyons to explore the lush, hidden oases which have provided water and refuge to traders crossing the Sahara for centuries. The Adrar contains two of the country's magnificent historical cities. '''Chinguetti''' was once a trading centre and centre of Islamic scholarship whose architecture remains unchanged in nearly a millennium. Along with '''Ouadane''' and a few other small towns, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And do not miss the '''world's longest train''' either just for a glimpse or to hop into an iron ore car filled with Mauritanians for the 12-hour journey from the Adrar to the coast. The remains of the Almoravid capital '''Azoughui''', and rock paintings, are draws of the Adrar. [[File:L'ancienne ville de Ouadane.jpg|thumb|Ancient city of Ouadane]] Much of the central coastline is part of '''Parc National du Banc d'Arguin''', home to millions of migrating birds each year. At Nouamgar, you can watch the unique spectacle of local tribesmen communicating with dolphins to round up teams of fish into shallow waters for them to be netted. In the southeast, the oasis city of '''Oualata''' was the southern end of most trans-Sahara trading routes in the 13th & 14th centuries. The city has colourful buildings, many of which feature intricate geometric designs. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also boasts a manuscript museum with examples of ancient scrolls in fine calligraphy. ==Do== * Visiting the '''Hamoni library''' in Chinguetti ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mauritanian ouguiya | currencyCode=UM | date=July 2025 | USD=40 | EUR=46 | GBP=54 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mru-mauritanian-ouguiya XE.com] }} The country's currency is the '''Mauritanian ouguiya''' (pron. oo-gee-ya), denoted by the symbol "'''UM'''" or "'''أوقية‎‎'''" (ISO code: '''MRU'''). It was revalued in Dec 2017: 10 old UM (ISO: MRO) = 1 new UM (MRU). Prices are occasionally still written in the old MRO system, especially in restaurants and hotels that cater to westerners, so don't be put off by the seemingly high prices. You are ''not allowed'' to take Mauritanian ouguiyas out of Mauritania. Coins are issued in denominations of 1 khoums ({{frac|5}} ouguiya), UM 1, 2, 5, 10 (silver center with yellow ring) and 20 (tri-metallic coin with a yellow center plug, silver middle ring and yellow outer ring). Banknotes are issued in denominations of UM 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000. All of the banknotes issued in 2017 are printed entirely on polymer. Mauritania is poorly connected to the international banking system. ATMs in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou now accept international Visa cards at banks such as BNP, Attijari. It is easy to change euros, US dollars and CFA francs in Nouakchott. Cash may not be available at all ATMs, especially in regional Mauritania, so don't solely rely on ATMs for currency. *'''Societe Generale''' ATMs in Nouakchott and Nouadibou accepts both international Mastercard and Visa cards for cash withdraw. ===Shopping=== [[Image:Fish market nouakchott mauritania.JPG|thumb|Fisherman's market near [[Nouakchott]].]] Souvenirs can be bought at Marché Capital or Marché Sixième in Nouakchott, or at tourist shops in the Adrar. Fabric will be sold in boutiques all over the country, but Kaedi is famous for its tie-dying. In general, the quality of most Mauritanian souvenirs is not as good as one might expect. Typical souvenirs include leather products, pipes, wooden bowls, tea pots and silver jewellery; be careful about the quality of jewellery. Fabric, however, is tie-dyed by hand and can be quite beautiful. Fabric will be sold as a mulafa (veil), usually gauzy and one piece, or as material for a boubou, with two separate pieces for a skirt and top. Fabric is sold anywhere for anything from UM 150-800, depending on the fabric quality and work involved. When buying anything in Mauritania, be sure to [[haggling|bargain]]. Sometimes the starting price will be three times the actual price. Stay friendly, but don't worry about insulting anyone by asking for a lower price. ==Eat== [[File:CouscousDromadaire.jpg|thumb|A woman with a plate of camel couscous sure to delight your taste buds!]] Mauritanian cuisine is often overlooked in favour of the more recognisable cuisines of North Africa and the Middle East. Don't let that stop you from fully experiencing Mauritanian gastronomy; Mauritanian cuisine is a unique blend of flavours and incorporates African, Arab, and French influences. There is a decent variety of restaurants in Nouakchott with dishes costing from UM100 to 250. Most restaurants in the capital offer much the same menu - simple pizzas, hamburgers, sandwiches and salads. There is a string of restaurants on the road from the Stade Olympique to the French Embassy. Good ones include Pizza Lina, Café Liban and Le Petit Café. The Sahara Café, on the other side of the stadium, is also a good place for pizza, sandwiches or Lebanese dishes, and has some of the best reasonably-priced food in town. Near Marche Capitale, there is a street of sandwich shops that offer near-identical menus, the best of which is the Prince (which taxi drivers know by name). [[File:IMG-20190510-WA0018.jpg|thumb|Tea time at home.]] Outside of Nouakchott, it is possible to find a hamburger in Atar. Otherwise, the choice is local dishes: fish and rice (chebujin) in the south and rice and meat or couscous in the north. Hole-in-the-wall restaurants can be found everywhere and serve meals from UM 20-50. Mechui, or grilled sheep, is also delicious if a little more expensive. Look for carcasses hanging by the side of the road. Some fruit can be found in most regional capitals. Most restaurants outside of Nouakchott do not have very high standards of cleanliness. Since most small restaurants go under within a few years of opening, your best bet in trying to find one in a regional capital is to just ask locals for directions to whatever is nearby. Another alternative, in the absence of a restaurant, is paying a family to prepare food for you, which should be relatively inexpensive (no more than UM 150), even if it takes a while (up to a couple hours to buy the food and prepare it). Bottled water can be bought for UM 20 and is a good idea for anyone not accustomed to Africa. If none of this sounds good, keep in mind that boutiques everywhere sell bread, cakes, biscuits and drinks if nothing else. Tea is usually served after a meal, but it is not included with the meal at restaurants. If you are offered tea in someone's home, it is impolite to leave until at least the second (of three) glasses. The whole process takes about an hour. ==Drink== Despite being an Islamic country there are a few fun bars in the capital. Drinking can be expensive, with a beer costing up to US$6. There is a nightclub inside the French Embassy compound. For the non-French, try the Salamander or the trashy (but open late) Club VIP. Next door to VIP is the Casablanca, a more low-key bar with live music on the weekends. ''It is illegal to import alcohol'' beyond 0.5 litres, which must be declared. ==Sleep== All ranges of accommodation are available, with the highest class hotels available only in Nouakchott and Atar. "Auberges" and campsites can rent beds/mattresses for as little as UM 150 in the Adrar and Nouadhibou. There is usually at least one hotel in the regional capitals in the rest of the country, although they can be expensive for what you are getting. If possible, make friends with a local and try to get invited to stay with their family. As long as you don't mind sleeping on the ground on a foam mat, sleeping/eating near animals or using a latrine, you will probably end up having a pleasant and memorable stay. ==Learn== The [http://www.una.mr/ '''University of Nouakchott Al Asriya'''] is the largest university in the country. ==Work== Mauritania is a country that has long been associated with a tradition of North-South trade and is favorable to free markets and entrepreneurship. The government welcomes businesses and individuals that can contribute to Mauritania's long-term development because the government is keen on overcoming a history of poverty and economic disarray. Although that sounds impressive, Mauritania is one of the world's poorest countries. With such high rates of poverty, bureaucratic corruption, and illiteracy, Mauritania isn't thought of as a top destination for expatriates. There are not enough jobs for everyone; the country suffers from high levels of unemployment. This is often blamed on a poorly developed educational system. Nepotism is common in the Mauritanian business world. The country's association with tribalism and tribal ties means that there are patronage networks in the country. If you have no knowledge of either [[French]], [[Arabic]], or both, expect things to be an uphill battle; very little English is spoken in Mauritania and you can expect all business transactions and communications to be conducted in either [[French]] or [[Arabic]]. The importance of having connections in the country cannot be overstated. Maintaining good contact with the Mauritanian government and having a degree of influence within the local community will help you or your business succeed in Mauritania. ==Stay safe== {{Cautionbox|Some governments advise against all non-essential travel to Mauritania and all travel to many parts of Mauritania due to the danger posed by extremist jihadist groups. Travel to the eastern and northern desert regions should be avoided. The ability of officials to provide consular assistance is extremely limited. |australia=https://smartraveller.gov.au/countries/africa/west/pages/mauritania.aspx |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mauritania |ireland=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/mauritania/ |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/mauritania |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mauritania |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mauritania-travel-advisory.html |de=https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/mauretaniensicherheit/219190 |lastedit=2023-01-06 }} [[File:PNBA 43.JPG|thumb|Fishing boats in Banc d'Arguin National Park]] The area near Western Sahara is heavily mined, and travel through this area is highly inadvisable. Border areas lining Algeria and Mali are notorious for banditry. The single paved road coming from Morocco is perilous, having been the site of Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) kidnappings. If you must travel on this path, it is best to do so in a tight caravan. In other areas, one should avoid flaunting wealth or expensive wares. Daunting though it may seem, a bit of research and common sense will ensure a pleasant trip in Mauritania. Check your embassy or consulate travel advisories carefully. Due to increasing numbers of attacks on Westerners in the past several years, most Western nations advise great caution. Resident expatriates travel between cities by day, in groups and on major routes. There are certain parts of Mauritania that have been closed to tourists by the Mauritanian armed forces (usually in the eastern and northern portions of the country). Most of these places have little to offer/interest tourists, but occasionally historic sites like [[Chinguetti]] or [[Ouadane]] are included. Check what regions are closed before you plan your trip. === Religious norms=== Mauritania is an Islamic country, and the government recognizes [[Islam]] as the sole religion of its citizens (and indeed Mauritania has one of the highest percentages of its citizens being Muslim in the world at about 99.97%). The bulk of Mauritania's legal code is based on Sharia, which is the corpus of laws established in the Islamic legal tradition. (Mauritania does not apply Sharia as strictly as some other Muslim-majority states like [[Saudi Arabia]], the [[United Arab Emirates|UAE]], or [[Afghanistan]], though.) Under current laws, Mauritanians who convert to other religions lose their citizenship. Under current laws (Article 306 of the Mauritanian penal code), the death penalty is '''statutory''' for apostasy and blasphemy, i.e., criticising or disrespecting religion. It is '''unwise''' to speak badly of Islam, hand out non-Islamic religious literature, or encourage people to participate in religious debates. === LGBT travellers === {{warningbox|Male and female '''same-sex sexual activity''' is a severe offence and is either punishable by death (for men) or a lengthy prison sentence (for women). }} While same-sex activity is illegal in Mauritania and comes with a death penalty, the country has had a moratorium on capital punishment since 1986. As of 2023 there are no known instances of anyone being judicially punished recently for same-sex activities. LGBTQ+ travelers should, however, exercise discretion and caution and avoid public acknowledgement of their sexuality/gender identity for their own safety. ==Stay healthy== For the majority of Westerners, the local [[water]] in any part of the country (including Nouakchott) is not safe to drink. Visitors should drink only bottled water if they don't have access to some type of water purifying or filtration system. The Sahara is a very dry climate. You may become dehydrated quite easily, and not be aware of it. The best rule of thumb is to be sure that you have urinated three times each day, at reasonable intervals. In the hottest part of the year, this might mean drinking several litres of water each day. '''[[Malaria]]''' is endemic in the southern part of the country, and visitors should always use a mosquito net there. Mosquitoes are less common in the dry desert in the north of the country, but exist year-round in the south, if a bit less prevalent during the dry season (December-May). ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} Learn ''Salaam alaykum'' and use it when greeting people. If you are a man, don't try to shake hands with a woman, and vice versa (note that some African women will not have a problem with shaking a man's hand, but it is best to not try to initiate contact, just follow their lead). You can, however, say hello and touch your hand over your heart. Be careful to eat with your right hand, especially outside of Nouakchott where you may not be offered cutlery. Like other places in the Arab world, the left hand is reserved for the toilet. If you're left-handed... try hard. Covering your head isn't required, but it is polite. It may cut down on the ''Madame, ou bien Mademoiselle?'' (Mrs or Miss?) question, but Westerners, especially women, will be the target of unwanted attention and minor harassment everywhere in the country. Many Mauritanians, both male and female, think that a direct gaze is a sexual invitation. There is even a phrase in Hassiniya, ''ayna m'tina'', meaning ''strong eyes'', to describe what many people feel is an aggressive act. This doesn't mean however, that the men have carte blanche to harass. Calling them on their bad behaviour, or pointing it out to the ever present bystanders, can often work. If you give respect, you can demand it also. The Moors respect women who stand up for themselves, even while they push you to see how far they can get. If you are travelling with someone of the opposite sex, avoid touching in public. It's much more common to see two men holding hands than a woman and a man. As far as dress, the more skin you show, the more negative attention you will receive. In Nouakchott, women can wear trousers, but avoid tank tops and to-the-knee skirts. Long skirts are the best choice for women. It is a good idea to cover your arms also. Trousers display the crotch area and thus are also disturbing, especially to people in the countryside who aren't as used to seeing this as the city dwellers. Most people will be very polite, and you will not know what they are thinking. If you are a female, there is no non-sexual reason, ''ever'', to go off in private with a man. If they ask you to step into an office, or back of a shop or anywhere; don't. The men are aware that that is an unreasonable request, and no one would ask you for a private chat if they meant well. If you allow yourself to be alone with a man, for however brief a time, everyone will assume you had sex, and will judge you accordingly. As a weakling, not as dissolute. '''Slavery''' is a sensitive historical and social issue in Mauritania. While there do have laws prohibiting and criminalizing slavery, such practice still persists in the local society, and there are records of government harassment. As a tourist, you are best not to be involved in the situation. If you are white, ''Nasrani'', ''Toubac'' and ''Toubab'' refers to you. Children, and sometimes rude adults, will refer to you by this name. ''Nasrani'' means a person from Nazareth. Since Christians follow Christ's teachings, and Christ is from Nazareth, then Christians are all honorary Nazarenes. Beware of people who may try to take advantage of your politeness in order to try to make a sale. Be aware that in market areas, almost everyone who tries to befriend you is trying to sell you something at an inflated price. They will try many tricks to get you to buy items from them (including "giving them to you as a gift"), and a few might even accuse you of not liking Africans if you decline to look at their souvenir shop. If someone is going beyond the normal limits to bother you, it is not impolite to tell them, without question, that you are not interested. If they ask for something that you own, just say that you need it now, and can give it to them in a month or so. ==Connect== There are three operators of GSM networks: [http://www.mattel.mr Mattel]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (excellent English website), Mauritel Mobiles and [https://www.chinguitel.mr/?lang=en Chinguitel]. Prepaid plans are available for three of them. 3G/4G is available and data speeds are good. For tours into the desert where no GSM-Network is available satellite phones are a good solution. Service providers include Thuraya, Iridium and Inmarsat. Thuraya tends to be the cheapest and the easiest to use. The equipment is also available for rent. Internet cafés with DSL internet can be found in Nouakchott and [[Nouadhibou]] for 200-300 UM/hour. Slower connections plague "cybercafés" elsewhere in the country, but it's possible to check emails. {{geo|21|-11|zoom=6}} {{IsPartOf|Sahel}} {{outlinecountry}} 34alun8k4kbkr8k806go2p919qb51pf 0 21685 5091297 5089390 2025-07-11T10:15:33Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091297 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mauritius banner Sunset.jpg|caption=|unesco=yes}} '''Mauritius''' ([[French phrasebook|French]]: ''Maurice'', Mauritian Creole: ''Moris'') is an island nation in the [[Indian Ocean]] about {{km|2300}} from the [[Africa]]n continent. Mauritius is mostly appreciated by visitors for its natural beauty and man-made attractions, multi-ethnic and cultural diversity, tropical climate, beautiful beaches and water sports. ==Cities== <!--The island is divided into nine districts plus several independent minor islands. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Map of Mauritius.png | regionmapsize=500px | region1name=[[Rivière du Rempart]] | region1color=#D5DC76 | region1items= | region1description= | region2name=[[Pamplemousses]] | region2color=#69999F | region2items= | region2description= | region3name=[[Port Louis District|Port Louis]] | region3color=#D09440 | region3items= | region3description= | region4name=[[Moka District|Moka]] | region4color=#71B37B | region4items= | region4description= | region5name=[[Flacq]] | region5color=#B5D29F | region5items= | region5description= | region6name=[[Plaines Wilhems]] | region6color=#D56D76 | region6items= | region6description= | region7name=[[Black River]] (Rivière Noire) | region7color=#B383B3 | region7items= | region7description= | region8name=[[Grand Port]] | region8color=#AC5C91 | region8items= | region8description= | region9name=[[Savanne]] | region9color=#578E86 | region9items= | region9description= | region10name=[[Rodrigues]] | region10color=#4F93C0 | region10items= | region10description= }}--> {{Mapframe|-20.25|57.55|zoom=10|height=520|width=420}}{{mapshape}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Port Louis]]|lat=-20.1667|long=57.5|wikidata=Q3929}}— capital of Mauritius *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Beau Bassin-Rose Hill]]|lat=-20.239806|long=57.471694}}, the country's second biggest settlement. *[[Bel Ombre]] *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Curepipe]]|lat=-20.318775|long=57.526294|wikidata=Q1002525}} is the largest highland city in Mauritius. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Quatre Bornes]]|lat=-20.265|long=57.479|wikidata=Q1341194}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Vacoas-Phoenix]]|lat=-20.300047|long=57.474508|wikidata=Q676724}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Blue Bay]]|lat=-20.4410|long=57.7191|wikidata=Q14202736}}, bluest water and most amazing white sand beaches you will ever see. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Centre de Flacq]]|lat=-20.2002|long=57.717658}} one of the most important villages in Mauritius. This meeting point for inhabitants of the East boasts the country's largest open air market. This extremely colourful market attracts a lot of people. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chamarel]]|lat=-20.42463|long=57.3885|wikidata=Q1060502}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Grand Bay]]|lat=-20.018394|long=57.580172|wikidata=Q992154}} ''Grand-Baie'', a shopping and leisure paradise. With adjoining '''Pereybère''' beach resort. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Flic en Flac]]|lat=-20.282|long=57.370|wikidata=Q3073702}}, a local fishing village that has expanded to become a popular destination for tourists and expats. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Mahébourg]]|lat=-20.4000|long=57.7000|wikidata=Q1291379}} is one of the main fishing villages on the island. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pamplemousses]]|lat=-20.109 | long=57.576|wikidata=Q934126}} village in the district of the same name * {{marker|type=city| name=[[Souillac]] | lat=-20.51901 | long=57.52230| wikidata=Q2215428}} A small seaside resort along the rugged coast of the Savanne district. Nearby '''La Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes'''. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tamarin (Mauritius)|Tamarin]]|lat=-20.3356 | long=57.3724|wikidata=Q2322083}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Triolet]] | lat=-20.0598 | long=57.5516|wikidata=Q641130}} The longest village on the island, Triolet offers an opportunity to visit the biggest Hindu temple, the Maheswarnath, first built in 1819 in honour of the Gods Shiva, Krishna, Vishnu, Muruga, Brahma and Ganesha. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Trou d'Eau Douce]]|lat=-20.241|long=57.786|wikidata=Q3540824}} — In the east, visitors may easily visit '''L'Ile aux Cerf''' from there *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bel Ombre]]|lat=-20.504167|long=57.413889|wikidata=Q2894141}} — A village in Savanne District. <!-- Locations with population size (should these have articles) *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bel Air Rivière Sèche]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bambous (Mauritius)]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Baie-du-Tombeau]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chemin-Grenier]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Goodlands]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Lallmatie]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Le Hochet]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Plaine Magnien]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rose-Belle]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Saint Pierre, Mauritius]]|wikidata=}} --> ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Agaléga]]|wikidata=Q196042| lat=-10.41667|long=56.58333}} — a pair of outer islands 1000 km north of the main island; home to about 300 people, and now leased to the Indian military *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Rodrigues]]|lat=-19.717|long=63.417|wikidata=Q208668}} — a separate island 500 km east of the main island, but under the political control of Mauritius * {{listing|type=vicinity | name=Black River Gorges | alt= | url=http://npcs.govmu.org/English/Pages/NPCS%20Updated/Black-River-Gorges-National-Parks.aspx | email= | address= | lat=-20.416667 | long=57.416667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Black River Gorges National Park | image=BlackRiverGorges.jpg | wikidata=Q2421766 | content=This national park of 6,574 ha (16,244 acres) was created in 1994 for the protection of Mauritius’ remaining native forests. Visitors can enjoy magnificent landscapes, with endemic plants and rare bird species. A trail leads from the Pétrin information centre to an area of typical plant life and to a conservation area. }} * {{listing|type=vicinity | name=[[Le Morne]] cultural landscape | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-20.453 | long=57.321 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q1129992|lastedit=2024-10-10| content=A peninsula and an eponymous mountain in the southwest of Mauritius. Inscribed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]]. }} * {{listing | type=vicinity | name=Domaine du Chasseur | alt= | url=http://www.mauritius-tourist-guide.mu/listings/tourist-attractions/domaine-du-chasseur/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat=-20.337688 | long=57.717555 | directions= | phone=+230 634-5011 | tollfree= | fax=+230 634-5261 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-07-27 | content=Nestled in the Anse Jonchée hills, the Domaine des Grand Bois has splendid hunting grounds covering an area of 900 ha. Stags, monkeys and boars live amidst the luxuriant vegetation of the hillside. One can watch a few species of endangered birds, including the kestrel. The Domaine contains four thatched-roof bungalows and a [http://le-domaine-du-chasseur.restaurant.mu/ restaurant] with a panoramic sea view. Take an opportunity to enjoy a meal of venison. The view is great and well worth the visit, but the food can best be described as average. The venison is very chewy. There is a steep hike up the hill from the car park to the restaurant. The restaurant offers a 4WD taxi service which is free if you eat one of their overpriced meals, but if you only want a cup of tea or dessert they charge Rs230 per person for the 5-minute ride. }} *{{listing | type=vicinity | name=Macchabée - Bel Ombre Nature Preserve | alt= | url=https://www.belombrenaturereserve.com/adventures/unesco-biosphere-reserve | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2894141 | content=UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Heart of Bel Ombre }} *Antoinette Phooliyar- This place is highly symbolic as it here that the first batch of Indian Immigrants came to Mauritius during British period also known as the great experiment. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=Mauritius island location.svg}} [[File:Chamarel Falls Mauritius 2.JPG|thumb|Chamarel Falls]] The country consists of the main island of Mauritius and the smaller islands of [[Rodrigues]], the Agalegas and the Cargados Carajos shoals. The [[British Indian Ocean Territory]] is claimed by Mauritius and recognised as part of Mauritius by the United Nations, but remains under de facto British control, so we do not cover it here. === History === The island of Mauritius was first discovered by Arab sailors in the 9th century, though the exact date is unknown. At that time the island was uninhabited and covered in a dense forest. The Arab sailors were not interested in settling on the island which they named ''Dina Arobi'' or ''Dinarobin''. Fernandez Pereira, a Portuguese sailor saw the island in 1505 and decided to give it the name of ''Cerne''. However, the Portuguese did not settle permanently on the island either. The first to colonise the island were the Dutch, who took possession of the island in 1598. The Dutch settlers landed on a bay in the southeastern part of the island which was named ''Warwyck Haven'' after the commander Van Warwijck; the bay is now known as Grand Port. Mauritius also got its modern name during this period; the island was named after the Stadtholder of Holland, Maurits van Nassau. In 1710, the Dutch abandoned the island, leaving behind macaques, the java deer, sugarcane, fugitive slaves and, also, irreversible damage to the endemic and indigenous flora and fauna of the island. The dodo was, by then, extinct due to extensive hunting, the bird being very easy to capture, while the once abundant black ebony tree population was almost completely depleted due to its timber being overexploited. The French settled on the island in 1712, also landing at the bay in the southeast. They renamed the bay Port Bourbon and renamed the island ''Ile de France''. They settled and established their main harbour on the northwestern side of the island, which was to become Port Louis, the present day capital of the country. The French colonial period led to the economic development of Mauritius. Mahé de Labourdonnais, whose statue can be seen across from the harbour in Port Louis, is known as the founder of the capital city and the island prospered under his governance from 1735 to 1746. In August 1810, the British tried to take over the island but lost after a fierce battle against the French in the famous '''Battle of Grand Port''' &ndash; the only naval victory of the French over the British during the Napoleonic period. However, the British came back in December 1810 and defeated the French. From then on, the island was renamed Mauritius and remained under British rule until it attained independence, although the British agreed to allow the locals to continue using the French language. In 1835, slavery was officially abolished and, as most of the African slaves chose to abandon the agricultural fields and move to small coastal villages, indentured labourers ("coolies") were brought in from India to work in the growing sugarcane industry. To this day, ethnic Indians form the majority in Mauritius, and Mauritius is the only country outside South Asia to have a [[Hinduism|Hindu]] majority. On 12 March 1968 Mauritius became an independent nation within the Commonwealth. Three years before though, the British separated the administration of the Chagos Archipelago from the rest of Mauritius and formed the [[British Indian Ocean Territory]]. The government of Mauritius has claimed these islands now used as a joint American and British military base ever since, making the archipelago a disputed territory. Although the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in favour of Mauritius in 2017, the British government does not accept the ruling has refused to hand the islands over to Mauritius. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam also known as the "Father of the Nation" led the island to independence and did a lot to develop the country. During his reign however, Mauritius faced economic difficulties and political turmoil following the postponement of elections for more than 9 years. On 12 March 1992, Mauritius became a republic under the leadership of the then Prime Minister Sir Aneerood Jugnauth. A stable democracy with regular free elections and a positive human rights record means that it has attracted considerable foreign investment and has one of Africa's highest per capita incomes. ===Climate=== Tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; warm, dry winter (May to November); hot, wet, humid summer (November to May); ''Natural hazards'' : Tropical cyclones can occur between November and April, however are most likely from late December until March. Mauritius has only two seasons, winter and summer. Temperatures do not differ greatly over the seasons. The climate on the central plateau is cooler than on the coastal areas. *The hottest and driest part is the west coast *The windiest and wettest part is the east coast *December to February are the hottest months of the year *The driest month of the year is October *The coolest months are from June to August *[http://metservice.intnet.mu/ Mauritius Weather] - Current weather report from the Mauritius region. ===People=== Mauritius has a population of 1 million inhabitants. While there are no indigenous people on the island, its multiethnic society comprises a mix of Creoles, Chinese, Indians and French who are descendants of colonialism and labour. Mauritius is the only country outside [[South Asia]] with a [[Hinduism|Hindu]] majority. ===Tourist information === * [https://mymauritius.travel/ Mauritius Travel] website ==Talk== {{See also|French phrasebook}} Although the official language of Mauritius is '''English''', in practice '''[[French phrasebook|French]]''' is by far the most commonly spoken language, and is widely used in professional and formal settings. English language television programmes are usually dubbed into French. Most subjects are taught in and examined in British English in the education system, meaning that you will be able to communicate with locals in English with varying levels of difficulty. '''Mauritian Creole''' is a French-based creole which has incorporated some words from diverse sources including English, Dutch and Portuguese, and has slight pronunciation differences from French. Although locals generally converse with each other in Creole, standard French is also universally spoken and understood. Virtually everyone working in the tourism industry will be able to speak fairly decent, albeit heavily accented English, and all government departments will have English-speaking staff on duty. Other languages spoken by much smaller numbers include: [[Hindi phrasebook|Hindi]], [[Urdu phrasebook|Urdu]], Hakka, Bhojpuri and [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]]. Tamils constitute around 10% of the population and speak [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]]. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Mauritius.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Mauritius]] ===Visa requirements=== Citizens of many countries, including [[Japan]], [[Malaysia]], [[Singapore]], [[New Zealand]] and most other OECD countries do not need a visa in advance. For more information, visit [https://passport.govmu.org/passport/?page_id=605 the Passport and Immigration Office website]. If you require a visa to enter Mauritius, you might be able to apply for one at a British embassy, high commission or consulate in the country where you legally reside if there is no diplomatic post of Mauritius. For example, the British embassies in [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/saudiarabia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Al Khobar], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/jordan/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Amman], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/serbia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Belgrade], [https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/guatemala Guatemala City]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/indonesia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Jakarta], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/saudiarabia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Jeddah], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/kosovo/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Pristina], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/morocco/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Rabat], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/saudiarabia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Riyadh], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/italy/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Rome] and [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/bulgaria/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Sofia] accept Mauritius visa applications (this list is ''not'' exhaustive). British diplomatic posts charge GBP50 to process a Mauritius visa application and an extra GBP70 if the authorities in Mauritius require the visa application to be referred to them. The authorities in Mauritius can also decide to charge an additional fee if they correspond with you directly. As of June 2023 visitors are required to provide a form called "Mauritius All in One", accommodation and return ticket details to the immigration service on arrival. If you arrive in Mauritius from a country where malaria is endemic, you may receive a visit from the government health service and be required to give a blood sample for malaria screening. === By plane === [[File:'Mon Choisy' approaching rwy 14 at Plaisance.jpg|thumb|Air Mauritius is the national carrier]] '''[http://www.airmauritius.com Air Mauritius]''' is the home carrier and operates a network of routes to the local islands and international destinations in Africa, Australia, Europe and Asia. Regional airlines: [http://www.air-austral.com Air Austral], [https://www.airseychelles.com/ Air Seychelles], [https://www.flysafair.co.za/ FlySafair], [https://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways] and [https://www.flysaa.com South Africa Airways] connect Mauritius with continental Africa and the surrounding islands. International airlines such as Austrian, Air Belgium, [http://www.airfrance.com Air France], [http://www.ba.com British Airways], [http://www.condor.com Condor], [http://www.corsairfly.com Corsair International], Edelweiss Air, [http://www.emirates.com Emirates], Eurowings, Evelop Airlines, Saudia, TUI Airways, Turkish Airlines and Vistara serve Mauritius from their home bases. {{listing | type=go | name=Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport | alt={{IATA|MRU}} | url=http://aml.mru.aero/ | email= | address= | lat=-20.430028 | long=57.683022 | directions=at Plaisance in the southeast of the island | phone=+230 603 6000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport | image=Mauritius 23.08.2009 11-29-57.jpg | wikidata=Q36460 | content=It is the major gateway for international travellers. }} The arrivals hall can get congested in the morning when most of the flights from Europe arrive. Immigration officers tend to be quite slow and the whole immigration process can be a frustrating experience. ===By sea=== Vessels that arrive at the port are mainly cargo ships. The ''Mauritius Pride'' and the ''[http://www.mauritiusshipping.net/ Trochetia]'' are the Mauritian vessels that usually sail to and from [[Reunion|Réunion]] Island, [[Rodrigues]] Island and [[Madagascar]]. Costa Cruises ships have started an Indian Ocean cruise including a visit to Mauritius. In 2008, one-way passage prices from Tamatave in Madagascar to Mauritius by boat were €275 first class or €255 second class. The journey takes at least four days, more if transiting through Réunion. A boat leaves every other Wednesday. If you are going directly to the port in Tamatave you can negotiate with a boat captain for a non-cabin berth. Visiting the Nautical Club in Tamatave to enquire about yachts that might be heading to Mauritius rarely yields positive results. ==Get around== ===By plane=== *[http://www.airmauritius.com Air Mauritius] operates daily flights connecting Plaisance Airport and Rodrigues (flight time - 1 hour 15 minutes). ===By boat=== * {{listing | name=Coraline | alt= | url=http://www.mauritiusshipping.intnet.mu {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=sureka.toolooa@coraline.intnet.mu | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 208 5900 | tollfree= | fax=+230 210 5176 | hours= | price= |lastedit=2024-01-24| content=Sails once a week to Rodrigues Island and to Réunion island from Port Louis Harbour. Mauritius Pride, launched in 1991, and Mauritius Trochetia, in service since 2001, are the two ships operating on the Réunion route, and also have Madagascar as a destination. Both vessels are used as passenger and container ships. }} === By train === [[File:Mauritius Metro Express Map.svg|thumb|Metro Express route map]] The modern [https://mauritiusmetroexpress.mu/ Metro Express] light rail links [[Port Louis]] and [[Curepipe]], stopping at [[Rose Hill]], [[Quatre Bornes]] and [[Vacoas-Phoenix]] along the way. Trains run every 10 minutes from 6 AM to 7 PM, taking around 40 minutes from end to end (Rs 50). ===By bus=== Several fairly good bus services ply the island. Taking the bus is the most economical way of travelling. As of 2023 one way fare costs MUR 44. Air-conditioned buses have been introduced on some routes. The major bus companies are: * {{listing | name=National Transport Corporation | alt=NTC | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 426 2938 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=United Bus Service | alt=UBS | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 212 2026 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Mauritius Bus Transport | alt=MTB | url= | email= | address=Long mountain | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 245 2539 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Triolet Bus Service | alt=TBS | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 261 6725 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Others | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Other smaller companies have amusing names such as Apollo and Turbo. In late 2014 local buses were available in the parking area of SSR airport. They are cheap and follow more interesting routes than the luxury ones, but are slower. }} Buses are manned by a driver and a conductor who walks around collecting fares and issuing tickets after passengers have boarded. Most conductors are helpful in providing directions to tourists. In the local Creole dialect, the conductors are called ''con-tro-lair'' (literally controller). Bus routes and schedules are available from the [http://nta.govmu.org/English/Procedures/Pages/Hidden/Bus-Timetable.aspx Ministry of Land Transport] and [http://www.mauritius-buses.com/ Mauritius Buses] who list all the main operators and their schedules. Keep in mind that the bus driver may skip some stops or change itinerary if the number of customers is too low. Try to pay with exact change. Intentional over-charging of tourists is not common. ===By taxi=== Taxis are the best way to tour the island. Various tours are available as from Rs2,500: The holy lake, Chamarel 7 coloured earth, Le Morne, dolphin tours in Tamarin and Ile aux cerfs are among the most appreciated by visitors. Taxis in Mauritius do not use meters. Negotiate the price of your trip before you enter a taxi; otherwise, you may be overcharged. ===By car=== [[File:Mauritius 23.08.2009 09-19-10.jpg|thumb|Maconde curved road in Baie du Cap]] One major highway runs north to south, otherwise a good network of paved, if sometimes narrow, roads cover the island. Traffic drives on the left and priority is for vehicles coming from the right. Numerous car hire firms include major international and local car rental agencies. There are various cars and vehicles for every budget. Some of the most popular rental cars categories are, compact (small Japanese cars), SUV, Sedan, 4x4 and luxury models. Car rental prices in Mauritius average around €25/day. Some unlicensed car owners can offer lower prices, but you should be wary because this is not safe and often comes with numerous additional costs. To be on the safe side, with full insurance, visitors should rent cars from companies holding a tourism enterprise license. These cars are identifiable by their yellow number plates, while private cars have black plates. If you hire a car at the airport keep in mind that you will need to pay a MUR 30 charge when you are leaving the car park, and this has to be paid in cash. Regulations: drivers are required to be over 18 years old. Most [https://crystal-carrental.com/ car rental companies in Mauritius] require 2 years of driving experience or drivers above 21 years. Speed limits are 110 km/h (68 mph) on the motorway and 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas. Seat belts are compulsory. Foreign licences are accepted but should be readable in English or French. If your driving license is in another language, a certified translation (like an International Driving Permit) may be required to rent and drive on the island. Approximate travel times from Port Louis to other major cities, towns, and resorts in Mauritius: *Curepipe 30 min *Grand Baie, North 25 min *Mahebourg, Southeast 55 min *Flic-en-Flac, West 30 min ==See== {{movetocity}} ===Northern tourist zone=== [[File:Grand Baie, view from the offshore.JPG|thumb|[[Grand Bay]] from offshore]] [[Grand Bay]] was the first area of the island to fully experience the tourist boom. A shopping and leisure paradise, Grand Bay is also where Mauritians go when they want a fun-filled night out (restaurants, bars and discos). La Cuvette beach is well worth a visit as well as the wonderful Pereybere public beach is popular because of its shopping facilities, restaurants and pubs. The SSR botanical garden, [[Pamplemousses]], is the oldest botanical garden in the Southern Hemisphere. It was founded by Pierre Poivre (1719 – 1786) in 1770, contains some flora unique to Mauritius and covers an area of around 37 ha. It also has several animals, being especially famous for its fish, deer and tortoises, as well as an old replica of a sugar mill. ===East=== The eastern part of the island is known for its long sand bank beaches and famous hotels such as "The Coco Beach Hotel" and the 5-star "Le Touessrok". [[File:Sur l'ile aux cerfs.JPG|thumb|Île aux Cerfs]] [[Centre de Flacq]] is one of the most important villages in Mauritius. This meeting point for inhabitants of the East boasts the country’s largest open air market. This extremely colourful market attracts a large number of people. Ile aux Cerfs is a paradise for water sports and has one of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius. You cannot afford to miss this tiny island, delicately poised on the ocean, a real pearl in the Mauritian landscape. Price conscious visitors would be well advised to take ample food and drink, as the only bar and restaurant on the island primarily targets well-heeled tourists. Boats depart regularly from [[Trou d'Eau Douce]] village in the East (which has some of the best seafood restaurants on the island). There is a variety of vessels that serve the route including catamarans, yachts and "pirate-ships". Some serve food (usually barbecue, especially seafood) on board included in the price and tend to take a detour to the Grand River South East waterfalls for a visit. The island also has a 5-star hotel (Le Touessrok) and a golf course. ===Southeast=== [[Mahebourg]] is one of the main fishing villages on the island. Built on the magnificent Grand Port Bay, it was founded in 1804 by the French Governor Charles Decaën. The Monday markets are among the biggest and best on the island and are held right next to the main bus station. Just of the coast, as a result of the remarkable work accomplished by the Mauritius Wildlife Fund, '''Ile aux Aigrettes''' has become an international standard for the protection of natural resources and endangered species. A few of the world’s rarest birds, including the kestrel, can be seen there. You can also see the extremely rare Pink Pigeon, the Green Gecko Phelsuma and the Aldabra giant tortoise. Also nearby at Vieux Grand Port, the oldest settlement in Mauritius, you can see the ruins of the first Dutch fortifications. [[Souillac]], a small seaside resort along the rugged coast of the Savanne district. A notable feature is the garden overlooking the sea and named after Dr Charles Telfair. A popular viewpoint at the southern end of the village, right on the cliff top: Gris Gris. [[Blue Bay]], bluest water and most amazing white sand beaches you will ever see. Take the trip across the island from Port Louis and see what this quiet place has to offer. Very busy with the locals on weekends. Try to go during the week. Glass bottom boats are an excellent outing. Part of Blue Bay has been designated a Marine Park, and the snorkelling trips by boat to this area, offered for sale on the main public beach, are well worth trying. ===West=== The west coast has some of the best and longest white sandy beaches on the island. These include Trou aux Biches, winner of the World's Best Beach in the 2011 World Travel Awards; and Le Morne Beach which is shared by a number of 5-star resorts including Paradis Hotel & Golf Club (2012 World Travel Award winner 'Mauritius Leading Golf Resort'), the all-suite Dinarobin Golf & Spa, and Lux Le Morne. There is also a dedicated public beach between Dinarobin and Lux Le Morne. (All beaches in Mauritius are public.) [[File:Sunset at Flic en Flac Beach in Mauritius (53696897952).jpg|thumb|Flic en Flac beach]] [[Flic en Flac]], a local fishing village that has expanded to become a popular destination for tourists and expats. Flic en Flac has a very long white sandy beach stretching down the west coast to Tamarin which is enjoyed by locals and tourists. While the beach is great, there are many sea urchins in the very shallow water, wear shoes. Scuba Diving is the main attraction with excellent diving just a few minutes from the beach. There is a reasonable supermarket and a variety of accommodations and restaurants to suit all budgets. At [[Tamarin (Mauritius)|Tamarin]]'s beach of white sands and crystal clear waters both novice and expert surfers visit for some of the best waves on the island. The bay also has its own dolphin pod and dramatic views across to the Montage du Rempart, an extinct volcano. Owing to the exceptional high level of sunshine the district receives, Tamarin is the heart of salt production in Mauritius. Just south in La Preneuse are the Martello Towers, a milestone in the island’s history symbolising the end of slavery and the beginning of Indian immigration. A winding road leads from Case Noyale village to the '''Seven Coloured Earths''' of [[Chamarel]], an undulating landscape of different and contrasting shades of colours. The different shades of blue, green, red and yellow are apparently the result of the erosion of the volcanic ash. The neighbouring waterfalls of Chamarel rise from the moors and the native plant life. The site possesses a rare beauty. An adventure park has also been opened at Chamarel. [[File:Aerial view of the southwesternmost point of Mauritius (53696881722).jpg|thumb|Le Morne peninsula]] * {{see | name=Casela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-20.30836 | long=57.42350 | directions= | phone=+230 452-2828 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2016-07-27| content=Situated in the Rivière Noire district, the Casela Nature & Leisure Park stretches over 25 ha. It contains more than 140 bird species from five continents and is home to many other animals including giant tortoises, zebras, a tiger and ostriches. Activities include walking with lions, Rando Fun (ziplines & hanging bridges), quad, buggy & Segway and a petting farm. |wikidata=Q107100671}} * {{see | name=Yemen | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= -20.333908 | long=57.417597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Yemen Reserve may not be the largest game reserve on the island, but there is still lots to see. You will be able to get close to the herds of deer, and admire some splendid species of Mauritian fauna. A few rustic kiosks available in the reserve provide an unobstructed view of the sea. There you can sip a local punch while watching the sun going down. }} [[Le Morne Brabant|Le Morne]] is a peninsula and an eponymous mountain in the southwest of Mauritius. Inscribed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]]. ===The interior=== * {{see | name=Eureka | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 326-4775 | tollfree= | fax=+230 326-9732 | hours= | price= |lastedit=2024-10-10| content= Is an old Creole residence built in 1830, Eureka is an essential place to visit during your stay in Mauritius if you wish to immerse yourself in tropical sweetness. Includes a tour of the colonial house with the opportunity to purchase overpriced textile products, and a tour of the gardens and a visit to the waterfalls below. |wikidata=Q124453811}} * {{see | name=Ganga Talao - Grand Bassin | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-20.418056 | long=57.491944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ganga Talao | image=GangaTalaoLake.jpg | wikidata=Q2338515 | content=Beyond La Marie and '''Mare-aux-Vacoas''' is found one of the two natural lakes of Mauritius. It rests within the crater of an extinct volcano. Ganga Talao is an important pilgrimage site and many Mauritians of the Hindu faith walk there during the Maha Shivaratri festival or the night fasting dedicated to Shiva. Gigantic eels live in the lake and are fed by the pilgrims. A walk to the top of the mount beside the lake is recommended for beautiful views over the area known as "Plaine Champagne". }} ==Do== [[File:Le Pouce, Mauritius.jpg|thumb|right|Climbing Le Pouce]] *'''Views''' &mdash; For a spectacular 360⁰ view of Port Louis and the north, climb Le Pouce or ‘the thumb', at 812 m (2,664&nbsp;ft). It is an easy 2-hour climb from the village of Petit Verger (near St. Pierre), and takes another 2 hour to walk into Port Louis ([http://www.wikiloc.com/wikiloc/view.do?id=371324 map]). The top of Signal Mountain also offers a spectacular view of Port Louis and the North. It is much easier to climb Signal Mountain from Labourdonnais Street as there is a tarred jogging track and it takes around 45 minutes to walk to the top. Starting from Saint Louis is also possible. *'''Tour the Moka mountains''' &mdash; by quad bike, horse or 4-wheel drive at the accessible 1,500-hectare (3,700-acre) nature park of Domaine Les Pailles. Travel to the sugar mill and rum distillery by train or horse-drawn carriage before dining in one of four restaurants. *'''Deep sea fishing''' &mdash; Mauritius is ideally positioned for game-fishing. Depending on the time of year it is possible to catch blue or black marlin, sailfish, wahoo, yellow fin tuna, giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, bonito, dolphinfish, sharks and many more. The majority of the big game fishing boats are well equipped with VHF radio, mobile telephone, GPS navigation system, radar, radio telephone, safety equipment, Penn International reels, life jackets, medical kits, fire extinguishers, flares, and all related fishing equipment such as fighting chairs and rods (usually 9). You can choose between half day and full day fishing trips . Big game fishing is best on the west coast of Mauritius because the currents swirl around the foot of Le Morne, creating a marine environment attractive to bait fish, which in turn attracts the larger fish. Boats usually accommodate up to 5 anglers and full day trips typically include breakfast and lunch in the price. *Head to '''Grand Baie''' &mdash; For watersports such as parasailing, an underwater walk, submarine and semi-submersible scooters, or to La Cuvette, a long beach with clear water between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux, for sailing, windsurfing and waterskiing. *'''Safari jeep trips''' &mdash; The Safari Jeep trip takes place in Yemen natural reserve park on the West Coast of Mauritius. It hosts two of the longest rivers on the island – Rivière Rempart and Tamarin River – and is a haven for all sorts of native and exotic wildlife. The actual size of this natural reserve is of around 4,500 hectares. The Yemen Park is the setting for Safari trips where you will have a thrilling ride and will be able to see many beautiful animals such as Zebras, ostriches, African antelopes, Java deer, monkeys, ducks and geese, and will see extraordinary panoramic views of this breathtaking part of the island. *'''Safari quad biking trips''' &mdash; Experience an adventurous Quad biking activity in the most amazing natural setting quad-biking activity in the 4,500 ha of Yemen natural reserve park. More than a quad bike outing as it includes a safari. During the trip it is possible to see deer, zebras, ostriches, African antelopes and wild boars. *'''Swim''' &mdash; At the northern beaches such as Trou aux Biches, shaded by casuarinas, Mont Choisy, a 2-km (1.2 mi) narrow white stretch of sand curving north from there, and Péreybère, a little cove between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux. [[File:View from the bottom of the boat Grand Baie.JPG|thumb|right|Glass bottomed boat in Grand Bay]] *'''Diving''' &mdash; When you dive in Mauritius you can explore coral reefs, multi-coloured marine life, ship wrecks dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, or some ships sunk more recently which create beautiful artificial reefs. There are numerous dive sites strewn all around the island, as well as some near the offshore island of [[Rodrigues]]. One of the well-known and popular dive sites in Mauritius is the cathedral, which is located off the Flic en Flac on the western coast of Mauritius. Other dive sites in Mauritius include the Whale Rock and Roche Zozo that is an underwater rock pinnacle, and the submerged crater near Ile Ronde. Mauritius is almost completely encircled by a barrier coral reef which is home to many sponges, sea anemones and a variety of brightly coloured fish such as Damselfish, Trumpet fish, Boxfish and clown fish, as well as the orange Mauritian scorpionfish. Most of the dive sites are located on the west coast around Flic-en-Flac or in the north, at Trou aux Biches or at the Northern Islands. The best time to go diving is from November to April with very good visibility underwater. *[[Snorkeling and freediving in Mauritius|'''Snorkeling & freediving''' in Mauritius]] offers some easy to access coral reefs in shallow water with a variety of fish. *'''Speedboat''' &mdash; Rides are available from Trou d'eau Douce to the popular island playground of Ile aux Cerfs for beaches, golf and watersports. Or, for a quieter day, a catamaran to the Northern Islands - Gabriel Island, Flat Island and Gunner's Quoin. *[[Hiking and trekking in Mauritius|'''Hiking and trekking''' in Mauritius]] with breathtaking views of mountains, rivers, and forests. Enjoy a hiking trip through the fields, trekking on a zip line or on a bike, and discover this magnificent nature paradise Mauritius being a volcanic island has several breathtaking summits and valleys to explore on foot. You can visit the Black River Gorges National Park, a 6,794-ha (16,788-acre) forest, to see indigenous plants, birds and wildlife. Black River Peak trail goes to Mauritius' highest mountain, while the Maccabee Trail starts nearby and plunges into the gorge to Black River. A challenging path follows the Tamarind waterfalls. *'''Tandem skydiving''' &mdash; Experience a {{ft|10,000}} skydive in Mauritius. Enjoy a spectacular scenic flight and a tandem skydive. Tandem skydiving refers to a type of skydiving where a student skydiver is connected via a harness to a tandem instructor. The instructor guides the student through the whole jump from exit through freefall, piloting the canopy, and landing. The student needs only minimal instruction before making a tandem jump. *'''Horse racing''' &mdash; The Mauritius horse racing club commonly called the Champ de Mars was founded in 1812, making it the oldest horse-racing club in the Southern Hemisphere. Horse racing is the most popular sport in Mauritius, and attracts about 30,000 visitors on each race day. The horse racing season usually starts in April and ends in late November. There are an average of 9 and a maximum of 12 horses per race. On average some 60 horses participate on each racing day. It is highly recommended to go and experience the electric atmosphere of horse racing in Mauritius. For those interested it is also possible have a VIP treatment in one of the VIP suites while enjoying snacks and drinks and a clear view of the race from your private balcony *'''Parasailing''' &mdash; For those looking for a fun sea-air activity, you can try parasailing. You will be rewarded with a breathtaking bird's eye view of the beautiful lagoon and beaches. The parasailing begins with a short safety briefing. Then you will be taken by boat to the launch pod where you will take off and start the parasailing. No steering is necessary as the sail follows the course of the boat *'''Water ski''' &mdash; Water-skiing is one of the most popular water sports in Mauritius. You can enjoy water skiing along several of Mauritius’ coasts or in a few of the lakes. The best area for water skiing is considered to be the north area of the island, along the coasts, where the lagoon provides full protection from the big waves of the open sea and offers ideal water skiing conditions of very calm sea *'''Watch dolphins''' &mdash; Go on a speed boat trip and watch dolphins in the open sea. You can choose between 2-hr trip, half-day and full-day trips where you will get to watch with the bottlenose dolphin and the spinner dolphin, which have made of the West Coast of Mauritius a place for them to rest before going to the deep sea for their fishing. *'''Walk with lions & cheetahs''' &mdash; Experience a one-on-one encounter with lions and cheetahs. Viewing the lions from very close, see them playing and hopping on the rocks of the river banks and scaling the trees. The lions roam freely amongst the participants giving visitors a rare opportunity of being in close contact with them. *'''Blue safari submarine''' &mdash; See the wonderful underwater tropical fish without even getting your feet wet. Going underwater to 35 m depth on board of a real submarine. You will get to visit a shipwreck, explore the rich coral reefs, and observe and encounter various species of fish. The submarine is air-conditioned with transparent-glassed cabin so you will enjoy exceptionally clear panoramic views of the extraordinary underwater world. *'''Underwater submarine scooter adventure''' &mdash; Pilot your own underwater scooter, or as a couple, to 3-4 m depth. Comfortably seated one behind the other, you breath freely and naturally in a transparent and panoramic cupola which allow you to enjoy the view of the reef and marine life. In advance you will receive a briefing about the control of the underwater scooter, and will be equipped with a diving suit. *'''Sea kayaking''' &mdash; A great way to explore the fine greenery of the lagoons, or the open waters of the Indian Ocean. It is possible to find wide range of sea kayaking trips and packages from breezy, calmer routes, to a few days trip surrounding the island in the deep ocean waters. This is also possible to have a kayak trip to any of the small islets surrounding the main island such as Ile D'Ambre Island. *'''Rock climbing''' &mdash; Rock climbing on the South West coast of Mauritius. You will get to experience rock climbing in a beautiful setting Of the Belle Vue Cliffs, where the caves of "La Pointe aux Caves" are nestled and in close proximity from the famous lighthouse of Albion. This is a great outdoor sport where you will learn the basic techniques of knots, safe climbing and rock progression from Mauritius’ top professional guides. *'''Canyoning''' &mdash; For those seeking more of an adrenalin rush and thrill, canyoning is abseiling down the steep walls of the canyons using nature watercourses and canyoning gear. The canyoning is offered in few locations in Mauritius. The canyoning (known also as canyoneering) in Mauritius consists of travelling in canyons using a variety of techniques that may include walking, climbing, jumping, abseiling, and/or swimming. Most canyoning tours will do the tamarind falls (7 cascades). You'll start at the top of the 7 waterfalls; beginner tours will go down the first 2-3 waterfalls and then walk back up for about 20 minutes to get back to the start. [[File:Rodrigues EasternSlopesOfGrandeMontagne.jpg|thumb|Eastern slopes of Grande Montagne, Rodrigues]] *'''[[Rodrigues]] island''' &mdash; Tiny, rugged, volcanic it lies 550 km (340 mi) northeast of Mauritius and is known as the ‘anti-stress' island. The capital, Port Mathurin, is only seven streets wide, with a Creole population. Rodrigues offers walking, diving, kitesurfing and deep sea fishing. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mauritian rupee | currencyCode=Rs | date=January 2025 | USD=45 | EUR=49 | GBP=59 | ZAR=2.5 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mur-mauritian-rupee XE.com] }} The '''Mauritian rupee''' (French: ''roupie mauricienne'') is denoted by the symbol "'''Rs.'''" or "'''₨'''" with or without a full stop and placed before or after the amount (ISO international currency: '''MUR'''). Banknotes come in denominations of Rs 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000. Coins come in denominations of Rs 1, 5, 10 and 20. ===Shop=== Mauritius is not at all like Bali or Thailand. Don't expect the local merchants to be interested in prolonged bargaining. Many shops will not reduce prices, and even at the markets don't expect more than a 10-20% reduction. There are some bargains however as many large brand names clothing companies manufacture in Mauritius, and you can often find over-runs or slightly flawed items at a fraction of the European prices. It is also a good place to find unusual jewellery and handicrafts such as artificial flowers, model boats and wooden art. It is possible to reach the main shopping centres by public transport, or to take a full day shopping tour which includes a driver to take you to the main centres and handicraft workshops. The Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis offers a variety of shops (including designer shops) and is an ideal place for shopping by tourists. For traditional crafts, a good place is Port Louis Central Market (Bazaar Port Louis). ==Eat== Don't hesitate to go to the various restaurants around the island. Although many of them advertise a specific ethnic cuisine, like everywhere around the world they have their own mix of traditional and local. You might discover that 'fried rice' can have more than one flavor. [[File:Bengali Rasgulla.jpg|thumb|Bengali rasagulas are very popular in Mauritius.]] Gastronomes will find a variety of flavors and aromas inherited from the different migrations through its history. Culinary traditions from France, India, China and Eastern Africa have been passed on through generations. Depending on the region, rice or a variety of flat bread called chapattis or roti, called farata (paratha) by the local people, is eaten with curries. The extensive use of spices like saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves and herbs such as thyme, basil, and curry leaves are the common ingredients that provide some powerful, yet subtle, flavor. Dal, a variety of lentil soup, are many and varied according to the type of lentil used; vegetables, beans, and pickles accompany the dishes. Dholl puri, originally an Indian delicacy, has become the fish and chips for Mauritians. Biryani from Mughal origins is a dish prepared by the Muslim community, where meat is mixed with spiced rice and potatoes. You can buy many snacks on the street including the famous gateaux piments (a variant of the Indian vadai; literally, chilly cakes), and vegetable or meat samosas (puffs), along with octopus curry in bread. The tomato and onion based dish called Rougaille (pronounced ''rooh-guy'') is a variation of the French ragoût. The dish usually consists of meat or seafood (corned beef and salted snoek fish rougaille are very popular with the locals). Mauritians eat this dish often if not daily. Mauritians have a sweet tooth and make many types of 'gateaux', as they are called. You can find a variety of cakes, including some that are very much like those in France and others similar to Indian sweets like gulab jamun and rasgulla. When leaving Mauritius, don't wait until you go through passport control if you want to have a snack. The coffee shop after passport control is expensive. You would be better off visiting the snack bar before check-in and taking your purchases with you. Remember that you can only take limited amounts of liquids through passport control. ==Drink== [[File:Phoenix Bier Mauritius 2019-09-28.jpg|thumb|160x160px|A bottle of Phoenix beer]] Mauritius produces a wide range of cane rum. It is very cheap and is a nice drink when mixed with cola and ice. A popular drink is coconut water with a dash of lime and a splash of local rum over ice. The local beer, Phoenix, costs around Rs30 for a pint. Usually served very cold. The local Black Eagle beer, brewed in Nouvelle France is also good. A local beer called Flying Dodo also offers beer with tropical fruits mix. The '''Medine Estate Refinery''' shop at Bambous (4 km from Flic en Flac), on the west of the Island, has a wide variety of locally produced rums and liquors. ==Sleep== There are many international brand hotels in Mauritius but there are some luxurious hotels which are owned by Mauritian companies. An increasing trend is for tourists to choose self-catered bungalows and apartments, many of them located directly on the beach. Foreigners can buy villas, many of them in compounds located on the beach, through the IRS or RES Scheme. ==Learn== Mauritius offers several study options for international students. The country has a growing education sector with a range of institutions offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. ===Higher education=== * '''University of Mauritius''', located in Réduit, offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in various fields including arts, science, engineering, and law. International students can obtain a postgraduate degree for approximately US$1500 per year of study, that can sometimes be completed online as well. * '''University of Technology Mauritius''', located in Pointe-aux-Sables, offers degrees in engineering, applied sciences, and management. * '''Open University of Mauritius''', located in Réduit, offers distance learning courses in a range of subjects including business, education, and science. * '''Middlesex University Mauritius''', located in Cascavelle, offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in business, law, media, and psychology. ===Language schools=== Mauritius also offers several language schools for those looking to improve their language skills. Some popular options include: * '''Alliance Française de Maurice''', located in Port Louis, offers French language courses for all levels. * '''Confucius Institute at University of Mauritius''', located in Réduit, offers Chinese language courses for all levels. * '''Mauritius Institute of Education''', located in Réduit, offers courses in English language teaching for non-native speakers. ===Study visa=== International students may require a study visa to study in Mauritius. The visa application process can be completed online through the Passport and Immigration Office website. It is important to check the visa requirements and eligibility criteria before applying. ==Stay safe== [[File:Le Morne, Mauritius.JPG|thumb|Le Morne]] The crime rate has fallen, and Mauritius is a much safer country for visitors than most other destinations. The Tourism Police and Coast Guards patrol regularly in areas frequented by tourists, and most cities, beaches and other major attractions are under camera surveillance. Nevertheless, you should look out for suspicious behavior. ===Telephone numbers=== * {{listing | name=Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=999, 112 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= | wikidata=Q208022}} * {{listing | name=Tourism Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 213 1740,+230 210 3894 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Coast guards | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 280 8317,+230 212 2747 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q130456319|lastedit=2024-10-10| content= }} * {{listing | name=Port Police | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Anti Drug Unit (ADSU) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 208 1212 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Traffic Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 211 8434,+230 211 8478 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Environment Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 210 5151, +230 210 5252 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Fire | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=115, 995 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=SAMU Ambulance | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=114 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=National Directory | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=150 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Airport of Mauritius | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 603 6000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q36460|lastedit=2024-10-10| content= }} * {{listing | name=Air Mauritius | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 207 7575 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q407556|lastedit=2024-10-10| content= }} ==Stay healthy== Mauritius is a risk area for infection with [[dengue fever]], also known as "breakbone fever" from the muscular convulsions it causes. No vaccine is available. Dengue re-emerged in 2019 after several dengue-free years, so be sure to take precautious against mosquito bites. Since 2005 during the high season a certain type of mosquito called the Aedes albopictus causes the viral illness Chikungunya and the insect is more likely to be around in the daytime. It is important to use anti-mosquito protection at all times. Mosquitoes are more prevalent in rural areas but they can also inhabit the beach in the tourist zone and may lead to swollen joints and/or rashes. Symptoms last from one week up to several months depending how seriously you are affected. Some people recover quickly but it can take several months to recover completely. In 1991 86% of the population had antibodies indicating that they had been exposed to the hepatitis A virus, following an epidemic of the disease in 1989. Hepatitis A vaccination is generally recommended for travel in East Africa (and most other places) by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Depending on the time of the year, many of the beaches are infested with sea urchins, and it is not uncommon to see broken glass on the beach or in the water. It is a very good idea to either buy or bring plastic/wet shoes when venturing into the water. This is generally not a problem at the big hotels as the designated swimming areas on the beaches are regularly cleaned of urchins and debris. Use wet shoes nonetheless. Reef fish in Mauritius have been found to contain a neurotoxin similar, but not identical, to that found in Caribbean reef fish. It is important not to eat peanuts or drink alcohol if you eat coral or reef fish like sea bass, snapper, mullet, and grouper. The fish eat the toxic algae that grows on the coral reefs. Don't eat intestines or testes of the fish as higher concentrations of the toxin collect here. The symptoms include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting and diarrhoea and sometimes loss of feeling in the limbs. The '''[[tap water]]''' is generally considered potable and most Mauritians drink it, but for visitors who aren't used to it, bottled water is recommended. At nearby island [[Réunion]] you can get treatment with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). ==Connect== Mauritius has a few telecommunications companies, the main ones being Emtel and My.t. They both sell sim card and E-sim at the airport from 700 MUR per month. Passport is required.{{isPartOf|East African Islands}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|-20.2|57.5|zoom=10}} s8btxbqpev445owwdwvcysqpevpn8ij 5091298 5091297 2025-07-11T10:15:52Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091298 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mauritius banner Sunset.jpg|caption=|unesco=yes}} '''Mauritius''' ([[French phrasebook|French]]: ''Maurice'', Mauritian Creole: ''Moris'') is an island nation in the [[Indian Ocean]] about {{km|2300}} from the [[Africa]]n continent. Mauritius is mostly appreciated by visitors for its natural beauty and man-made attractions, multi-ethnic and cultural diversity, tropical climate, beautiful beaches and water sports. ==Cities== <!--The island is divided into nine districts plus several independent minor islands. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Map of Mauritius.png | regionmapsize=500px | region1name=[[Rivière du Rempart]] | region1color=#D5DC76 | region1items= | region1description= | region2name=[[Pamplemousses]] | region2color=#69999F | region2items= | region2description= | region3name=[[Port Louis District|Port Louis]] | region3color=#D09440 | region3items= | region3description= | region4name=[[Moka District|Moka]] | region4color=#71B37B | region4items= | region4description= | region5name=[[Flacq]] | region5color=#B5D29F | region5items= | region5description= | region6name=[[Plaines Wilhems]] | region6color=#D56D76 | region6items= | region6description= | region7name=[[Black River]] (Rivière Noire) | region7color=#B383B3 | region7items= | region7description= | region8name=[[Grand Port]] | region8color=#AC5C91 | region8items= | region8description= | region9name=[[Savanne]] | region9color=#578E86 | region9items= | region9description= | region10name=[[Rodrigues]] | region10color=#4F93C0 | region10items= | region10description= }}--> {{Mapframe|-20.25|57.55|zoom=10|height=520|width=420}}{{mapshape}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Port Louis]]|lat=-20.1667|long=57.5|wikidata=Q3929}}— capital of Mauritius *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Beau Bassin-Rose Hill]]|lat=-20.239806|long=57.471694}}, the country's second biggest settlement. *[[Bel Ombre]] *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Curepipe]]|lat=-20.318775|long=57.526294|wikidata=Q1002525}} is the largest highland city in Mauritius. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Quatre Bornes]]|lat=-20.265|long=57.479|wikidata=Q1341194}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Vacoas-Phoenix]]|lat=-20.300047|long=57.474508|wikidata=Q676724}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Blue Bay]]|lat=-20.4410|long=57.7191|wikidata=Q14202736}}, bluest water and most amazing white sand beaches you will ever see. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Centre de Flacq]]|lat=-20.2002|long=57.717658}} one of the most important villages in Mauritius. This meeting point for inhabitants of the East boasts the country's largest open air market. This extremely colourful market attracts a lot of people. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chamarel]]|lat=-20.42463|long=57.3885|wikidata=Q1060502}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Grand Bay]]|lat=-20.018394|long=57.580172|wikidata=Q992154}} ''Grand-Baie'', a shopping and leisure paradise. With adjoining '''Pereybère''' beach resort. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Flic en Flac]]|lat=-20.282|long=57.370|wikidata=Q3073702}}, a local fishing village that has expanded to become a popular destination for tourists and expats. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Mahébourg]]|lat=-20.4000|long=57.7000|wikidata=Q1291379}} is one of the main fishing villages on the island. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pamplemousses]]|lat=-20.109 | long=57.576|wikidata=Q934126}} village in the district of the same name * {{marker|type=city| name=[[Souillac]] | lat=-20.51901 | long=57.52230| wikidata=Q2215428}} A small seaside resort along the rugged coast of the Savanne district. Nearby '''La Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes'''. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tamarin (Mauritius)|Tamarin]]|lat=-20.3356 | long=57.3724|wikidata=Q2322083}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Triolet]] | lat=-20.0598 | long=57.5516|wikidata=Q641130}} The longest village on the island, Triolet offers an opportunity to visit the biggest Hindu temple, the Maheswarnath, first built in 1819 in honour of the Gods Shiva, Krishna, Vishnu, Muruga, Brahma and Ganesha. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Trou d'Eau Douce]]|lat=-20.241|long=57.786|wikidata=Q3540824}} — In the east, visitors may easily visit '''L'Ile aux Cerf''' from there *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bel Ombre]]|lat=-20.504167|long=57.413889|wikidata=Q2894141}} — A village in Savanne District. <!-- Locations with population size (should these have articles) *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bel Air Rivière Sèche]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bambous (Mauritius)]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Baie-du-Tombeau]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chemin-Grenier]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Goodlands]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Lallmatie]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Le Hochet]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Plaine Magnien]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rose-Belle]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Saint Pierre, Mauritius]]|wikidata=}} --> ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Agaléga]]|wikidata=Q196042| lat=-10.41667|long=56.58333}} — a pair of outer islands 1000 km north of the main island; home to about 300 people, and now leased to the Indian military *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Rodrigues]]|lat=-19.717|long=63.417|wikidata=Q208668}} — a separate island 500 km east of the main island, but under the political control of Mauritius * {{listing|type=vicinity | name=Black River Gorges | alt= | url=http://npcs.govmu.org/English/Pages/NPCS%20Updated/Black-River-Gorges-National-Parks.aspx | email= | address= | lat=-20.416667 | long=57.416667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Black River Gorges National Park | image=BlackRiverGorges.jpg | wikidata=Q2421766 | content=This national park of 6,574 ha (16,244 acres) was created in 1994 for the protection of Mauritius’ remaining native forests. Visitors can enjoy magnificent landscapes, with endemic plants and rare bird species. A trail leads from the Pétrin information centre to an area of typical plant life and to a conservation area. }} * {{listing|type=vicinity | name=[[Le Morne]] cultural landscape | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-20.453 | long=57.321 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q1129992|lastedit=2024-10-10| content=A peninsula and an eponymous mountain in the southwest of Mauritius. Inscribed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]]. }} * {{listing | type=vicinity | name=Domaine du Chasseur | alt= | url=http://www.mauritius-tourist-guide.mu/listings/tourist-attractions/domaine-du-chasseur/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat=-20.337688 | long=57.717555 | directions= | phone=+230 634-5011 | tollfree= | fax=+230 634-5261 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-07-27 | content=Nestled in the Anse Jonchée hills, the Domaine des Grand Bois has splendid hunting grounds covering an area of 900 ha. Stags, monkeys and boars live amidst the luxuriant vegetation of the hillside. One can watch a few species of endangered birds, including the kestrel. The Domaine contains four thatched-roof bungalows and a [http://le-domaine-du-chasseur.restaurant.mu/ restaurant] with a panoramic sea view. Take an opportunity to enjoy a meal of venison. The view is great and well worth the visit, but the food can best be described as average. The venison is very chewy. There is a steep hike up the hill from the car park to the restaurant. The restaurant offers a 4WD taxi service which is free if you eat one of their overpriced meals, but if you only want a cup of tea or dessert they charge Rs230 per person for the 5-minute ride. }} *{{listing | type=vicinity | name=Macchabée - Bel Ombre Nature Preserve | alt= | url=https://www.belombrenaturereserve.com/adventures/unesco-biosphere-reserve | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2894141 | content=UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Heart of Bel Ombre }} *Antoinette Phooliyar- This place is highly symbolic as it here that the first batch of Indian Immigrants came to Mauritius during British period also known as the great experiment. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=Mauritius island location.svg}} [[File:Chamarel Falls Mauritius 2.JPG|thumb|Chamarel Falls]] The country consists of the main island of Mauritius and the smaller islands of [[Rodrigues]], the Agalegas and the Cargados Carajos shoals. The [[British Indian Ocean Territory]] is claimed by Mauritius and recognised as part of Mauritius by the United Nations, but remains under de facto British control, so we do not cover it here. === History === The island of Mauritius was first discovered by Arab sailors in the 9th century, though the exact date is unknown. At that time the island was uninhabited and covered in a dense forest. The Arab sailors were not interested in settling on the island which they named ''Dina Arobi'' or ''Dinarobin''. Fernandez Pereira, a Portuguese sailor saw the island in 1505 and decided to give it the name of ''Cerne''. However, the Portuguese did not settle permanently on the island either. The first to colonise the island were the Dutch, who took possession of the island in 1598. The Dutch settlers landed on a bay in the southeastern part of the island which was named ''Warwyck Haven'' after the commander Van Warwijck; the bay is now known as Grand Port. Mauritius also got its modern name during this period; the island was named after the Stadtholder of Holland, Maurits van Nassau. In 1710, the Dutch abandoned the island, leaving behind macaques, the java deer, sugarcane, fugitive slaves and, also, irreversible damage to the endemic and indigenous flora and fauna of the island. The dodo was, by then, extinct due to extensive hunting, the bird being very easy to capture, while the once abundant black ebony tree population was almost completely depleted due to its timber being overexploited. The French settled on the island in 1712, also landing at the bay in the southeast. They renamed the bay Port Bourbon and renamed the island ''Ile de France''. They settled and established their main harbour on the northwestern side of the island, which was to become Port Louis, the present day capital of the country. The French colonial period led to the economic development of Mauritius. Mahé de Labourdonnais, whose statue can be seen across from the harbour in Port Louis, is known as the founder of the capital city and the island prospered under his governance from 1735 to 1746. In August 1810, the British tried to take over the island but lost after a fierce battle against the French in the famous '''Battle of Grand Port''' &ndash; the only naval victory of the French over the British during the Napoleonic period. However, the British came back in December 1810 and defeated the French. From then on, the island was renamed Mauritius and remained under British rule until it attained independence, although the British agreed to allow the locals to continue using the French language. In 1835, slavery was officially abolished and, as most of the African slaves chose to abandon the agricultural fields and move to small coastal villages, indentured labourers ("coolies") were brought in from India to work in the growing sugarcane industry. To this day, ethnic Indians form the majority in Mauritius, and Mauritius is the only country outside South Asia to have a [[Hinduism|Hindu]] majority. On 12 March 1968 Mauritius became an independent nation within the Commonwealth. Three years before though, the British separated the administration of the Chagos Archipelago from the rest of Mauritius and formed the [[British Indian Ocean Territory]]. The government of Mauritius has claimed these islands now used as a joint American and British military base ever since, making the archipelago a disputed territory. Although the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in favour of Mauritius in 2017, the British government does not accept the ruling has refused to hand the islands over to Mauritius. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam also known as the "Father of the Nation" led the island to independence and did a lot to develop the country. During his reign however, Mauritius faced economic difficulties and political turmoil following the postponement of elections for more than 9 years. On 12 March 1992, Mauritius became a republic under the leadership of the then Prime Minister Sir Aneerood Jugnauth. A stable democracy with regular free elections and a positive human rights record means that it has attracted considerable foreign investment and has one of Africa's highest per capita incomes. ===Climate=== Tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; warm, dry winter (May to November); hot, wet, humid summer (November to May); ''Natural hazards'' : Tropical cyclones can occur between November and April, however are most likely from late December until March. Mauritius has only two seasons, winter and summer. Temperatures do not differ greatly over the seasons. The climate on the central plateau is cooler than on the coastal areas. *The hottest and driest part is the west coast *The windiest and wettest part is the east coast *December to February are the hottest months of the year *The driest month of the year is October *The coolest months are from June to August *[http://metservice.intnet.mu/ Mauritius Weather] - Current weather report from the Mauritius region. ===People=== Mauritius has a population of 1 million inhabitants. While there are no indigenous people on the island, its multiethnic society comprises a mix of Creoles, Chinese, Indians and French who are descendants of colonialism and labour. Mauritius is the only country outside [[South Asia]] with a [[Hinduism|Hindu]] majority. ===Tourist information === * [https://mymauritius.travel/ Mauritius Travel] website ==Talk== {{See also|French phrasebook}} Although the official language of Mauritius is '''English''', in practice '''[[French phrasebook|French]]''' is by far the most commonly spoken language, and is widely used in professional and formal settings. English language television programmes are usually dubbed into French. Most subjects are taught in and examined in British English in the education system, meaning that you will be able to communicate with locals in English with varying levels of difficulty. '''Mauritian Creole''' is a French-based creole which has incorporated some words from diverse sources including English, Dutch and Portuguese, and has slight pronunciation differences from French. Although locals generally converse with each other in Creole, standard French is also universally spoken and understood. Virtually everyone working in the tourism industry will be able to speak fairly decent, albeit heavily accented English, and all government departments will have English-speaking staff on duty. Other languages spoken by much smaller numbers include: [[Hindi phrasebook|Hindi]], [[Urdu phrasebook|Urdu]], Hakka, Bhojpuri and [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]]. Tamils constitute around 10% of the population and speak [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]]. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Mauritius.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Mauritius]] ===Visa requirements=== Citizens of many countries, including [[Japan]], [[Malaysia]], [[Singapore]], [[New Zealand]] and most other OECD countries do not need a visa in advance. For more information, visit [https://passport.govmu.org/passport/?page_id=605 the Passport and Immigration Office website]. If you require a visa to enter Mauritius, you might be able to apply for one at a British embassy, high commission or consulate in the country where you legally reside if there is no diplomatic post of Mauritius. For example, the British embassies in [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/saudiarabia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Al Khobar], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/jordan/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Amman], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/serbia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Belgrade], [https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/guatemala Guatemala City]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/indonesia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Jakarta], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/saudiarabia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Jeddah], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/kosovo/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Pristina], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/morocco/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Rabat], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/saudiarabia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Riyadh], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/italy/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Rome] and [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/bulgaria/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Sofia] accept Mauritius visa applications (this list is ''not'' exhaustive). British diplomatic posts charge GBP50 to process a Mauritius visa application and an extra GBP70 if the authorities in Mauritius require the visa application to be referred to them. The authorities in Mauritius can also decide to charge an additional fee if they correspond with you directly. As of June 2023 visitors are required to provide a form called "Mauritius All in One", accommodation and return ticket details to the immigration service on arrival. If you arrive in Mauritius from a country where malaria is endemic, you may receive a visit from the government health service and be required to give a blood sample for malaria screening. === By plane === [[File:'Mon Choisy' approaching rwy 14 at Plaisance.jpg|thumb|Air Mauritius is the national carrier]] '''[http://www.airmauritius.com Air Mauritius]''' is the home carrier and operates a network of routes to the local islands and international destinations in Africa, Australia, Europe and Asia. Regional airlines: [http://www.air-austral.com Air Austral], [https://www.airseychelles.com/ Air Seychelles], [https://www.flysafair.co.za/ FlySafair], [https://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways] and [https://www.flysaa.com South Africa Airways] connect Mauritius with continental Africa and the surrounding islands. International airlines such as Austrian, Air Belgium, [http://www.airfrance.com Air France], [http://www.ba.com British Airways], [http://www.condor.com Condor], [http://www.corsairfly.com Corsair International], Edelweiss Air, [http://www.emirates.com Emirates], Eurowings, Evelop Airlines, Saudia, TUI Airways, Turkish Airlines and Vistara serve Mauritius from their home bases. {{listing | type=go | name=Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport | alt={{IATA|MRU}} | url=http://aml.mru.aero/ | email= | address= | lat=-20.430028 | long=57.683022 | directions=at Plaisance in the southeast of the island | phone=+230 603 6000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport | image=Mauritius 23.08.2009 11-29-57.jpg | wikidata=Q36460 | content=It is the major gateway for international travellers. }} The arrivals hall can get congested in the morning when most of the flights from Europe arrive. Immigration officers tend to be quite slow and the whole immigration process can be a frustrating experience. ===By sea=== Vessels that arrive at the port are mainly cargo ships. The ''Mauritius Pride'' and the ''[http://www.mauritiusshipping.net/ Trochetia]'' are the Mauritian vessels that usually sail to and from [[Reunion|Réunion]] Island, [[Rodrigues]] Island and [[Madagascar]]. Costa Cruises ships have started an Indian Ocean cruise including a visit to Mauritius. In 2008, one-way passage prices from Tamatave in Madagascar to Mauritius by boat were €275 first class or €255 second class. The journey takes at least four days, more if transiting through Réunion. A boat leaves every other Wednesday. If you are going directly to the port in Tamatave you can negotiate with a boat captain for a non-cabin berth. Visiting the Nautical Club in Tamatave to enquire about yachts that might be heading to Mauritius rarely yields positive results. ==Get around== ===By plane=== *[http://www.airmauritius.com Air Mauritius] operates daily flights connecting Plaisance Airport and Rodrigues (flight time - 1 hour 15 minutes). ===By boat=== * {{listing | name=Coraline | alt= | url=http://www.mauritiusshipping.intnet.mu {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=sureka.toolooa@coraline.intnet.mu | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 208 5900 | tollfree= | fax=+230 210 5176 | hours= | price= |lastedit=2024-01-24| content=Sails once a week to Rodrigues Island and to Réunion island from Port Louis Harbour. Mauritius Pride, launched in 1991, and Mauritius Trochetia, in service since 2001, are the two ships operating on the Réunion route, and also have Madagascar as a destination. Both vessels are used as passenger and container ships. }} === By train === [[File:Mauritius Metro Express Map.svg|thumb|Metro Express route map]] The modern [https://mauritiusmetroexpress.mu/ Metro Express] light rail links [[Port Louis]] and [[Curepipe]], stopping at [[Rose Hill]], [[Quatre Bornes]] and [[Vacoas-Phoenix]] along the way. Trains run every 10 minutes from 6 AM to 7 PM, taking around 40 minutes from end to end (Rs 50). ===By bus=== Several fairly good bus services ply the island. Taking the bus is the most economical way of travelling. As of 2023 one way fare costs MUR 44. Air-conditioned buses have been introduced on some routes. The major bus companies are: * {{listing | name=National Transport Corporation | alt=NTC | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 426 2938 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=United Bus Service | alt=UBS | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 212 2026 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Mauritius Bus Transport | alt=MTB | url= | email= | address=Long mountain | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 245 2539 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Triolet Bus Service | alt=TBS | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 261 6725 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Others | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Other smaller companies have amusing names such as Apollo and Turbo. In late 2014 local buses were available in the parking area of SSR airport. They are cheap and follow more interesting routes than the luxury ones, but are slower. }} Buses are manned by a driver and a conductor who walks around collecting fares and issuing tickets after passengers have boarded. Most conductors are helpful in providing directions to tourists. In the local Creole dialect, the conductors are called ''con-tro-lair'' (literally controller). Bus routes and schedules are available from the [http://nta.govmu.org/English/Procedures/Pages/Hidden/Bus-Timetable.aspx Ministry of Land Transport] and [http://www.mauritius-buses.com/ Mauritius Buses] who list all the main operators and their schedules. Keep in mind that the bus driver may skip some stops or change itinerary if the number of customers is too low. Try to pay with exact change. Intentional over-charging of tourists is not common. ===By taxi=== Taxis are the best way to tour the island. Various tours are available as from Rs2,500: The holy lake, Chamarel 7 coloured earth, Le Morne, dolphin tours in Tamarin and Ile aux cerfs are among the most appreciated by visitors. Taxis in Mauritius do not use meters. Negotiate the price of your trip before you enter a taxi; otherwise, you may be overcharged. ===By car=== [[File:Mauritius 23.08.2009 09-19-10.jpg|thumb|Maconde curved road in Baie du Cap]] One major highway runs north to south, otherwise a good network of paved, if sometimes narrow, roads cover the island. Traffic drives on the left and priority is for vehicles coming from the right. Numerous car hire firms include major international and local car rental agencies. There are various cars and vehicles for every budget. Some of the most popular rental cars categories are, compact (small Japanese cars), SUV, Sedan, 4x4 and luxury models. Car rental prices in Mauritius average around €25/day. Some unlicensed car owners can offer lower prices, but you should be wary because this is not safe and often comes with numerous additional costs. To be on the safe side, with full insurance, visitors should rent cars from companies holding a tourism enterprise license. These cars are identifiable by their yellow number plates, while private cars have black plates. If you hire a car at the airport keep in mind that you will need to pay a MUR 30 charge when you are leaving the car park, and this has to be paid in cash. Regulations: drivers are required to be over 18 years old. Most [https://crystal-carrental.com/ car rental companies in Mauritius] require 2 years of driving experience or drivers above 21 years. Speed limits are 110 km/h (68 mph) on the motorway and 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas. Seat belts are compulsory. Foreign licences are accepted but should be readable in English or French. If your driving license is in another language, a certified translation (like an International Driving Permit) may be required to rent and drive on the island. Approximate travel times from Port Louis to other major cities, towns, and resorts in Mauritius: *Curepipe 30 min *Grand Baie, North 25 min *Mahebourg, Southeast 55 min *Flic-en-Flac, West 30 min ==See== {{movetocity}} ===Northern tourist zone=== [[File:Grand Baie, view from the offshore.JPG|thumb|[[Grand Bay]] from offshore]] [[Grand Bay]] was the first area of the island to fully experience the tourist boom. A shopping and leisure paradise, Grand Bay is also where Mauritians go when they want a fun-filled night out (restaurants, bars and discos). La Cuvette beach is well worth a visit as well as the wonderful Pereybere public beach is popular because of its shopping facilities, restaurants and pubs. The SSR botanical garden, [[Pamplemousses]], is the oldest botanical garden in the Southern Hemisphere. It was founded by Pierre Poivre (1719 – 1786) in 1770, contains some flora unique to Mauritius and covers an area of around 37 ha. It also has several animals, being especially famous for its fish, deer and tortoises, as well as an old replica of a sugar mill. ===East=== The eastern part of the island is known for its long sand bank beaches and famous hotels such as "The Coco Beach Hotel" and the 5-star "Le Touessrok". [[File:Sur l'ile aux cerfs.JPG|thumb|Île aux Cerfs]] [[Centre de Flacq]] is one of the most important villages in Mauritius. This meeting point for inhabitants of the East boasts the country’s largest open air market. This extremely colourful market attracts a large number of people. Ile aux Cerfs is a paradise for water sports and has one of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius. You cannot afford to miss this tiny island, delicately poised on the ocean, a real pearl in the Mauritian landscape. Price conscious visitors would be well advised to take ample food and drink, as the only bar and restaurant on the island primarily targets well-heeled tourists. Boats depart regularly from [[Trou d'Eau Douce]] village in the East (which has some of the best seafood restaurants on the island). There is a variety of vessels that serve the route including catamarans, yachts and "pirate-ships". Some serve food (usually barbecue, especially seafood) on board included in the price and tend to take a detour to the Grand River South East waterfalls for a visit. The island also has a 5-star hotel (Le Touessrok) and a golf course. ===Southeast=== [[Mahebourg]] is one of the main fishing villages on the island. Built on the magnificent Grand Port Bay, it was founded in 1804 by the French Governor Charles Decaën. The Monday markets are among the biggest and best on the island and are held right next to the main bus station. Just of the coast, as a result of the remarkable work accomplished by the Mauritius Wildlife Fund, '''Ile aux Aigrettes''' has become an international standard for the protection of natural resources and endangered species. A few of the world’s rarest birds, including the kestrel, can be seen there. You can also see the extremely rare Pink Pigeon, the Green Gecko Phelsuma and the Aldabra giant tortoise. Also nearby at Vieux Grand Port, the oldest settlement in Mauritius, you can see the ruins of the first Dutch fortifications. [[Souillac]], a small seaside resort along the rugged coast of the Savanne district. A notable feature is the garden overlooking the sea and named after Dr Charles Telfair. A popular viewpoint at the southern end of the village, right on the cliff top: Gris Gris. [[Blue Bay]], bluest water and most amazing white sand beaches you will ever see. Take the trip across the island from Port Louis and see what this quiet place has to offer. Very busy with the locals on weekends. Try to go during the week. Glass bottom boats are an excellent outing. Part of Blue Bay has been designated a Marine Park, and the snorkelling trips by boat to this area, offered for sale on the main public beach, are well worth trying. ===West=== The west coast has some of the best and longest white sandy beaches on the island. These include Trou aux Biches, winner of the World's Best Beach in the 2011 World Travel Awards; and Le Morne Beach which is shared by a number of 5-star resorts including Paradis Hotel & Golf Club (2012 World Travel Award winner 'Mauritius Leading Golf Resort'), the all-suite Dinarobin Golf & Spa, and Lux Le Morne. There is also a dedicated public beach between Dinarobin and Lux Le Morne. (All beaches in Mauritius are public.) [[File:Sunset at Flic en Flac Beach in Mauritius (53696897952).jpg|thumb|Flic en Flac beach]] [[Flic en Flac]], a local fishing village that has expanded to become a popular destination for tourists and expats. Flic en Flac has a very long white sandy beach stretching down the west coast to Tamarin which is enjoyed by locals and tourists. While the beach is great, there are many sea urchins in the very shallow water, wear shoes. Scuba Diving is the main attraction with excellent diving just a few minutes from the beach. There is a reasonable supermarket and a variety of accommodations and restaurants to suit all budgets. At [[Tamarin (Mauritius)|Tamarin]]'s beach of white sands and crystal clear waters both novice and expert surfers visit for some of the best waves on the island. The bay also has its own dolphin pod and dramatic views across to the Montage du Rempart, an extinct volcano. Owing to the exceptional high level of sunshine the district receives, Tamarin is the heart of salt production in Mauritius. Just south in La Preneuse are the Martello Towers, a milestone in the island’s history symbolising the end of slavery and the beginning of Indian immigration. A winding road leads from Case Noyale village to the '''Seven Coloured Earths''' of [[Chamarel]], an undulating landscape of different and contrasting shades of colours. The different shades of blue, green, red and yellow are apparently the result of the erosion of the volcanic ash. The neighbouring waterfalls of Chamarel rise from the moors and the native plant life. The site possesses a rare beauty. An adventure park has also been opened at Chamarel. [[File:Aerial view of the southwesternmost point of Mauritius (53696881722).jpg|thumb|Le Morne peninsula]] * {{see | name=Casela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-20.30836 | long=57.42350 | directions= | phone=+230 452-2828 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2016-07-27| content=Situated in the Rivière Noire district, the Casela Nature & Leisure Park stretches over 25 ha. It contains more than 140 bird species from five continents and is home to many other animals including giant tortoises, zebras, a tiger and ostriches. Activities include walking with lions, Rando Fun (ziplines & hanging bridges), quad, buggy & Segway and a petting farm. |wikidata=Q107100671}} * {{see | name=Yemen | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= -20.333908 | long=57.417597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Yemen Reserve may not be the largest game reserve on the island, but there is still lots to see. You will be able to get close to the herds of deer, and admire some splendid species of Mauritian fauna. A few rustic kiosks available in the reserve provide an unobstructed view of the sea. There you can sip a local punch while watching the sun going down. }} [[Le Morne Brabant|Le Morne]] is a peninsula and an eponymous mountain in the southwest of Mauritius. Inscribed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]]. ===The interior=== * {{see | name=Eureka | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 326-4775 | tollfree= | fax=+230 326-9732 | hours= | price= |lastedit=2024-10-10| content= Is an old Creole residence built in 1830, Eureka is an essential place to visit during your stay in Mauritius if you wish to immerse yourself in tropical sweetness. Includes a tour of the colonial house with the opportunity to purchase overpriced textile products, and a tour of the gardens and a visit to the waterfalls below. |wikidata=Q124453811}} * {{see | name=Ganga Talao - Grand Bassin | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-20.418056 | long=57.491944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ganga Talao | image=GangaTalaoLake.jpg | wikidata=Q2338515 | content=Beyond La Marie and '''Mare-aux-Vacoas''' is found one of the two natural lakes of Mauritius. It rests within the crater of an extinct volcano. Ganga Talao is an important pilgrimage site and many Mauritians of the Hindu faith walk there during the Maha Shivaratri festival or the night fasting dedicated to Shiva. Gigantic eels live in the lake and are fed by the pilgrims. A walk to the top of the mount beside the lake is recommended for beautiful views over the area known as "Plaine Champagne". }} ==Do== [[File:Le Pouce, Mauritius.jpg|thumb|right|Climbing Le Pouce]] *'''Views''' &mdash; For a spectacular 360⁰ view of Port Louis and the north, climb Le Pouce or ‘the thumb', at 812 m (2,664&nbsp;ft). It is an easy 2-hour climb from the village of Petit Verger (near St. Pierre), and takes another 2 hour to walk into Port Louis ([http://www.wikiloc.com/wikiloc/view.do?id=371324 map]). The top of Signal Mountain also offers a spectacular view of Port Louis and the North. It is much easier to climb Signal Mountain from Labourdonnais Street as there is a tarred jogging track and it takes around 45 minutes to walk to the top. Starting from Saint Louis is also possible. *'''Tour the Moka mountains''' &mdash; by quad bike, horse or 4-wheel drive at the accessible 1,500-hectare (3,700-acre) nature park of Domaine Les Pailles. Travel to the sugar mill and rum distillery by train or horse-drawn carriage before dining in one of four restaurants. *'''Deep sea fishing''' &mdash; Mauritius is ideally positioned for game-fishing. Depending on the time of year it is possible to catch blue or black marlin, sailfish, wahoo, yellow fin tuna, giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, bonito, dolphinfish, sharks and many more. The majority of the big game fishing boats are well equipped with VHF radio, mobile telephone, GPS navigation system, radar, radio telephone, safety equipment, Penn International reels, life jackets, medical kits, fire extinguishers, flares, and all related fishing equipment such as fighting chairs and rods (usually 9). You can choose between half day and full day fishing trips . Big game fishing is best on the west coast of Mauritius because the currents swirl around the foot of Le Morne, creating a marine environment attractive to bait fish, which in turn attracts the larger fish. Boats usually accommodate up to 5 anglers and full day trips typically include breakfast and lunch in the price. *Head to '''Grand Baie''' &mdash; For watersports such as parasailing, an underwater walk, submarine and semi-submersible scooters, or to La Cuvette, a long beach with clear water between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux, for sailing, windsurfing and waterskiing. *'''Safari jeep trips''' &mdash; The Safari Jeep trip takes place in Yemen natural reserve park on the West Coast of Mauritius. It hosts two of the longest rivers on the island – Rivière Rempart and Tamarin River – and is a haven for all sorts of native and exotic wildlife. The actual size of this natural reserve is of around 4,500 hectares. The Yemen Park is the setting for Safari trips where you will have a thrilling ride and will be able to see many beautiful animals such as Zebras, ostriches, African antelopes, Java deer, monkeys, ducks and geese, and will see extraordinary panoramic views of this breathtaking part of the island. *'''Safari quad biking trips''' &mdash; Experience an adventurous Quad biking activity in the most amazing natural setting quad-biking activity in the 4,500 ha of Yemen natural reserve park. More than a quad bike outing as it includes a safari. During the trip it is possible to see deer, zebras, ostriches, African antelopes and wild boars. *'''Swim''' &mdash; At the northern beaches such as Trou aux Biches, shaded by casuarinas, Mont Choisy, a 2-km (1.2 mi) narrow white stretch of sand curving north from there, and Péreybère, a little cove between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux. [[File:View from the bottom of the boat Grand Baie.JPG|thumb|right|Glass bottomed boat in Grand Bay]] *'''Diving''' &mdash; When you dive in Mauritius you can explore coral reefs, multi-coloured marine life, ship wrecks dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, or some ships sunk more recently which create beautiful artificial reefs. There are numerous dive sites strewn all around the island, as well as some near the offshore island of [[Rodrigues]]. One of the well-known and popular dive sites in Mauritius is the cathedral, which is located off the Flic en Flac on the western coast of Mauritius. Other dive sites in Mauritius include the Whale Rock and Roche Zozo that is an underwater rock pinnacle, and the submerged crater near Ile Ronde. Mauritius is almost completely encircled by a barrier coral reef which is home to many sponges, sea anemones and a variety of brightly coloured fish such as Damselfish, Trumpet fish, Boxfish and clown fish, as well as the orange Mauritian scorpionfish. Most of the dive sites are located on the west coast around Flic-en-Flac or in the north, at Trou aux Biches or at the Northern Islands. The best time to go diving is from November to April with very good visibility underwater. *[[Snorkeling and freediving in Mauritius|'''Snorkeling & freediving''' in Mauritius]] offers some easy to access coral reefs in shallow water with a variety of fish. *'''Speedboat''' &mdash; Rides are available from Trou d'eau Douce to the popular island playground of Ile aux Cerfs for beaches, golf and watersports. Or, for a quieter day, a catamaran to the Northern Islands - Gabriel Island, Flat Island and Gunner's Quoin. *[[Hiking and trekking in Mauritius|'''Hiking and trekking''' in Mauritius]] with breathtaking views of mountains, rivers, and forests. Enjoy a hiking trip through the fields, trekking on a zip line or on a bike, and discover this magnificent nature paradise Mauritius being a volcanic island has several breathtaking summits and valleys to explore on foot. You can visit the Black River Gorges National Park, a 6,794-ha (16,788-acre) forest, to see indigenous plants, birds and wildlife. Black River Peak trail goes to Mauritius' highest mountain, while the Maccabee Trail starts nearby and plunges into the gorge to Black River. A challenging path follows the Tamarind waterfalls. *'''Tandem skydiving''' &mdash; Experience a {{ft|10,000}} skydive in Mauritius. Enjoy a spectacular scenic flight and a tandem skydive. Tandem skydiving refers to a type of skydiving where a student skydiver is connected via a harness to a tandem instructor. The instructor guides the student through the whole jump from exit through freefall, piloting the canopy, and landing. The student needs only minimal instruction before making a tandem jump. *'''Horse racing''' &mdash; The Mauritius horse racing club commonly called the Champ de Mars was founded in 1812, making it the oldest horse-racing club in the Southern Hemisphere. Horse racing is the most popular sport in Mauritius, and attracts about 30,000 visitors on each race day. The horse racing season usually starts in April and ends in late November. There are an average of 9 and a maximum of 12 horses per race. On average some 60 horses participate on each racing day. It is highly recommended to go and experience the electric atmosphere of horse racing in Mauritius. For those interested it is also possible have a VIP treatment in one of the VIP suites while enjoying snacks and drinks and a clear view of the race from your private balcony *'''Parasailing''' &mdash; For those looking for a fun sea-air activity, you can try parasailing. You will be rewarded with a breathtaking bird's eye view of the beautiful lagoon and beaches. The parasailing begins with a short safety briefing. Then you will be taken by boat to the launch pod where you will take off and start the parasailing. No steering is necessary as the sail follows the course of the boat *'''Water ski''' &mdash; Water-skiing is one of the most popular water sports in Mauritius. You can enjoy water skiing along several of Mauritius’ coasts or in a few of the lakes. The best area for water skiing is considered to be the north area of the island, along the coasts, where the lagoon provides full protection from the big waves of the open sea and offers ideal water skiing conditions of very calm sea *'''Watch dolphins''' &mdash; Go on a speed boat trip and watch dolphins in the open sea. You can choose between 2-hr trip, half-day and full-day trips where you will get to watch with the bottlenose dolphin and the spinner dolphin, which have made of the West Coast of Mauritius a place for them to rest before going to the deep sea for their fishing. *'''Walk with lions & cheetahs''' &mdash; Experience a one-on-one encounter with lions and cheetahs. Viewing the lions from very close, see them playing and hopping on the rocks of the river banks and scaling the trees. The lions roam freely amongst the participants giving visitors a rare opportunity of being in close contact with them. *'''Blue safari submarine''' &mdash; See the wonderful underwater tropical fish without even getting your feet wet. Going underwater to 35 m depth on board of a real submarine. You will get to visit a shipwreck, explore the rich coral reefs, and observe and encounter various species of fish. The submarine is air-conditioned with transparent-glassed cabin so you will enjoy exceptionally clear panoramic views of the extraordinary underwater world. *'''Underwater submarine scooter adventure''' &mdash; Pilot your own underwater scooter, or as a couple, to 3-4 m depth. Comfortably seated one behind the other, you breath freely and naturally in a transparent and panoramic cupola which allow you to enjoy the view of the reef and marine life. In advance you will receive a briefing about the control of the underwater scooter, and will be equipped with a diving suit. *'''Sea kayaking''' &mdash; A great way to explore the fine greenery of the lagoons, or the open waters of the Indian Ocean. It is possible to find wide range of sea kayaking trips and packages from breezy, calmer routes, to a few days trip surrounding the island in the deep ocean waters. This is also possible to have a kayak trip to any of the small islets surrounding the main island such as Ile D'Ambre Island. *'''Rock climbing''' &mdash; Rock climbing on the South West coast of Mauritius. You will get to experience rock climbing in a beautiful setting Of the Belle Vue Cliffs, where the caves of "La Pointe aux Caves" are nestled and in close proximity from the famous lighthouse of Albion. This is a great outdoor sport where you will learn the basic techniques of knots, safe climbing and rock progression from Mauritius’ top professional guides. *'''Canyoning''' &mdash; For those seeking more of an adrenalin rush and thrill, canyoning is abseiling down the steep walls of the canyons using nature watercourses and canyoning gear. The canyoning is offered in few locations in Mauritius. The canyoning (known also as canyoneering) in Mauritius consists of travelling in canyons using a variety of techniques that may include walking, climbing, jumping, abseiling, and/or swimming. Most canyoning tours will do the tamarind falls (7 cascades). You'll start at the top of the 7 waterfalls; beginner tours will go down the first 2-3 waterfalls and then walk back up for about 20 minutes to get back to the start. [[File:Rodrigues EasternSlopesOfGrandeMontagne.jpg|thumb|Eastern slopes of Grande Montagne, Rodrigues]] *'''[[Rodrigues]] island''' &mdash; Tiny, rugged, volcanic it lies 550 km (340 mi) northeast of Mauritius and is known as the ‘anti-stress' island. The capital, Port Mathurin, is only seven streets wide, with a Creole population. Rodrigues offers walking, diving, kitesurfing and deep sea fishing. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mauritian rupee | currencyCode=Rs | date=January 2025 | USD=45 | EUR=53 | GBP=59 | ZAR=2.5 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mur-mauritian-rupee XE.com] }} The '''Mauritian rupee''' (French: ''roupie mauricienne'') is denoted by the symbol "'''Rs.'''" or "'''₨'''" with or without a full stop and placed before or after the amount (ISO international currency: '''MUR'''). Banknotes come in denominations of Rs 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000. Coins come in denominations of Rs 1, 5, 10 and 20. ===Shop=== Mauritius is not at all like Bali or Thailand. Don't expect the local merchants to be interested in prolonged bargaining. Many shops will not reduce prices, and even at the markets don't expect more than a 10-20% reduction. There are some bargains however as many large brand names clothing companies manufacture in Mauritius, and you can often find over-runs or slightly flawed items at a fraction of the European prices. It is also a good place to find unusual jewellery and handicrafts such as artificial flowers, model boats and wooden art. It is possible to reach the main shopping centres by public transport, or to take a full day shopping tour which includes a driver to take you to the main centres and handicraft workshops. The Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis offers a variety of shops (including designer shops) and is an ideal place for shopping by tourists. For traditional crafts, a good place is Port Louis Central Market (Bazaar Port Louis). ==Eat== Don't hesitate to go to the various restaurants around the island. Although many of them advertise a specific ethnic cuisine, like everywhere around the world they have their own mix of traditional and local. You might discover that 'fried rice' can have more than one flavor. [[File:Bengali Rasgulla.jpg|thumb|Bengali rasagulas are very popular in Mauritius.]] Gastronomes will find a variety of flavors and aromas inherited from the different migrations through its history. Culinary traditions from France, India, China and Eastern Africa have been passed on through generations. Depending on the region, rice or a variety of flat bread called chapattis or roti, called farata (paratha) by the local people, is eaten with curries. The extensive use of spices like saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves and herbs such as thyme, basil, and curry leaves are the common ingredients that provide some powerful, yet subtle, flavor. Dal, a variety of lentil soup, are many and varied according to the type of lentil used; vegetables, beans, and pickles accompany the dishes. Dholl puri, originally an Indian delicacy, has become the fish and chips for Mauritians. Biryani from Mughal origins is a dish prepared by the Muslim community, where meat is mixed with spiced rice and potatoes. You can buy many snacks on the street including the famous gateaux piments (a variant of the Indian vadai; literally, chilly cakes), and vegetable or meat samosas (puffs), along with octopus curry in bread. The tomato and onion based dish called Rougaille (pronounced ''rooh-guy'') is a variation of the French ragoût. The dish usually consists of meat or seafood (corned beef and salted snoek fish rougaille are very popular with the locals). Mauritians eat this dish often if not daily. Mauritians have a sweet tooth and make many types of 'gateaux', as they are called. You can find a variety of cakes, including some that are very much like those in France and others similar to Indian sweets like gulab jamun and rasgulla. When leaving Mauritius, don't wait until you go through passport control if you want to have a snack. The coffee shop after passport control is expensive. You would be better off visiting the snack bar before check-in and taking your purchases with you. Remember that you can only take limited amounts of liquids through passport control. ==Drink== [[File:Phoenix Bier Mauritius 2019-09-28.jpg|thumb|160x160px|A bottle of Phoenix beer]] Mauritius produces a wide range of cane rum. It is very cheap and is a nice drink when mixed with cola and ice. A popular drink is coconut water with a dash of lime and a splash of local rum over ice. The local beer, Phoenix, costs around Rs30 for a pint. Usually served very cold. The local Black Eagle beer, brewed in Nouvelle France is also good. A local beer called Flying Dodo also offers beer with tropical fruits mix. The '''Medine Estate Refinery''' shop at Bambous (4 km from Flic en Flac), on the west of the Island, has a wide variety of locally produced rums and liquors. ==Sleep== There are many international brand hotels in Mauritius but there are some luxurious hotels which are owned by Mauritian companies. An increasing trend is for tourists to choose self-catered bungalows and apartments, many of them located directly on the beach. Foreigners can buy villas, many of them in compounds located on the beach, through the IRS or RES Scheme. ==Learn== Mauritius offers several study options for international students. The country has a growing education sector with a range of institutions offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. ===Higher education=== * '''University of Mauritius''', located in Réduit, offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in various fields including arts, science, engineering, and law. International students can obtain a postgraduate degree for approximately US$1500 per year of study, that can sometimes be completed online as well. * '''University of Technology Mauritius''', located in Pointe-aux-Sables, offers degrees in engineering, applied sciences, and management. * '''Open University of Mauritius''', located in Réduit, offers distance learning courses in a range of subjects including business, education, and science. * '''Middlesex University Mauritius''', located in Cascavelle, offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in business, law, media, and psychology. ===Language schools=== Mauritius also offers several language schools for those looking to improve their language skills. Some popular options include: * '''Alliance Française de Maurice''', located in Port Louis, offers French language courses for all levels. * '''Confucius Institute at University of Mauritius''', located in Réduit, offers Chinese language courses for all levels. * '''Mauritius Institute of Education''', located in Réduit, offers courses in English language teaching for non-native speakers. ===Study visa=== International students may require a study visa to study in Mauritius. The visa application process can be completed online through the Passport and Immigration Office website. It is important to check the visa requirements and eligibility criteria before applying. ==Stay safe== [[File:Le Morne, Mauritius.JPG|thumb|Le Morne]] The crime rate has fallen, and Mauritius is a much safer country for visitors than most other destinations. The Tourism Police and Coast Guards patrol regularly in areas frequented by tourists, and most cities, beaches and other major attractions are under camera surveillance. Nevertheless, you should look out for suspicious behavior. ===Telephone numbers=== * {{listing | name=Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=999, 112 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= | wikidata=Q208022}} * {{listing | name=Tourism Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 213 1740,+230 210 3894 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Coast guards | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 280 8317,+230 212 2747 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q130456319|lastedit=2024-10-10| content= }} * {{listing | name=Port Police | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Anti Drug Unit (ADSU) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 208 1212 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Traffic Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 211 8434,+230 211 8478 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Environment Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 210 5151, +230 210 5252 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Fire | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=115, 995 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=SAMU Ambulance | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=114 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=National Directory | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=150 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Airport of Mauritius | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 603 6000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q36460|lastedit=2024-10-10| content= }} * {{listing | name=Air Mauritius | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 207 7575 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q407556|lastedit=2024-10-10| content= }} ==Stay healthy== Mauritius is a risk area for infection with [[dengue fever]], also known as "breakbone fever" from the muscular convulsions it causes. No vaccine is available. Dengue re-emerged in 2019 after several dengue-free years, so be sure to take precautious against mosquito bites. Since 2005 during the high season a certain type of mosquito called the Aedes albopictus causes the viral illness Chikungunya and the insect is more likely to be around in the daytime. It is important to use anti-mosquito protection at all times. Mosquitoes are more prevalent in rural areas but they can also inhabit the beach in the tourist zone and may lead to swollen joints and/or rashes. Symptoms last from one week up to several months depending how seriously you are affected. Some people recover quickly but it can take several months to recover completely. In 1991 86% of the population had antibodies indicating that they had been exposed to the hepatitis A virus, following an epidemic of the disease in 1989. Hepatitis A vaccination is generally recommended for travel in East Africa (and most other places) by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Depending on the time of the year, many of the beaches are infested with sea urchins, and it is not uncommon to see broken glass on the beach or in the water. It is a very good idea to either buy or bring plastic/wet shoes when venturing into the water. This is generally not a problem at the big hotels as the designated swimming areas on the beaches are regularly cleaned of urchins and debris. Use wet shoes nonetheless. Reef fish in Mauritius have been found to contain a neurotoxin similar, but not identical, to that found in Caribbean reef fish. It is important not to eat peanuts or drink alcohol if you eat coral or reef fish like sea bass, snapper, mullet, and grouper. The fish eat the toxic algae that grows on the coral reefs. Don't eat intestines or testes of the fish as higher concentrations of the toxin collect here. The symptoms include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting and diarrhoea and sometimes loss of feeling in the limbs. The '''[[tap water]]''' is generally considered potable and most Mauritians drink it, but for visitors who aren't used to it, bottled water is recommended. At nearby island [[Réunion]] you can get treatment with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). ==Connect== Mauritius has a few telecommunications companies, the main ones being Emtel and My.t. They both sell sim card and E-sim at the airport from 700 MUR per month. Passport is required.{{isPartOf|East African Islands}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|-20.2|57.5|zoom=10}} bohb1krjbb8p437pcbqe8txpmxdni8j 5091299 5091298 2025-07-11T10:16:55Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091299 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mauritius banner Sunset.jpg|caption=|unesco=yes}} '''Mauritius''' ([[French phrasebook|French]]: ''Maurice'', Mauritian Creole: ''Moris'') is an island nation in the [[Indian Ocean]] about {{km|2300}} from the [[Africa]]n continent. Mauritius is mostly appreciated by visitors for its natural beauty and man-made attractions, multi-ethnic and cultural diversity, tropical climate, beautiful beaches and water sports. ==Cities== <!--The island is divided into nine districts plus several independent minor islands. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Map of Mauritius.png | regionmapsize=500px | region1name=[[Rivière du Rempart]] | region1color=#D5DC76 | region1items= | region1description= | region2name=[[Pamplemousses]] | region2color=#69999F | region2items= | region2description= | region3name=[[Port Louis District|Port Louis]] | region3color=#D09440 | region3items= | region3description= | region4name=[[Moka District|Moka]] | region4color=#71B37B | region4items= | region4description= | region5name=[[Flacq]] | region5color=#B5D29F | region5items= | region5description= | region6name=[[Plaines Wilhems]] | region6color=#D56D76 | region6items= | region6description= | region7name=[[Black River]] (Rivière Noire) | region7color=#B383B3 | region7items= | region7description= | region8name=[[Grand Port]] | region8color=#AC5C91 | region8items= | region8description= | region9name=[[Savanne]] | region9color=#578E86 | region9items= | region9description= | region10name=[[Rodrigues]] | region10color=#4F93C0 | region10items= | region10description= }}--> {{Mapframe|-20.25|57.55|zoom=10|height=520|width=420}}{{mapshape}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Port Louis]]|lat=-20.1667|long=57.5|wikidata=Q3929}}— capital of Mauritius *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Beau Bassin-Rose Hill]]|lat=-20.239806|long=57.471694}}, the country's second biggest settlement. *[[Bel Ombre]] *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Curepipe]]|lat=-20.318775|long=57.526294|wikidata=Q1002525}} is the largest highland city in Mauritius. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Quatre Bornes]]|lat=-20.265|long=57.479|wikidata=Q1341194}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Vacoas-Phoenix]]|lat=-20.300047|long=57.474508|wikidata=Q676724}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Blue Bay]]|lat=-20.4410|long=57.7191|wikidata=Q14202736}}, bluest water and most amazing white sand beaches you will ever see. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Centre de Flacq]]|lat=-20.2002|long=57.717658}} one of the most important villages in Mauritius. This meeting point for inhabitants of the East boasts the country's largest open air market. This extremely colourful market attracts a lot of people. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chamarel]]|lat=-20.42463|long=57.3885|wikidata=Q1060502}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Grand Bay]]|lat=-20.018394|long=57.580172|wikidata=Q992154}} ''Grand-Baie'', a shopping and leisure paradise. With adjoining '''Pereybère''' beach resort. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Flic en Flac]]|lat=-20.282|long=57.370|wikidata=Q3073702}}, a local fishing village that has expanded to become a popular destination for tourists and expats. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Mahébourg]]|lat=-20.4000|long=57.7000|wikidata=Q1291379}} is one of the main fishing villages on the island. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pamplemousses]]|lat=-20.109 | long=57.576|wikidata=Q934126}} village in the district of the same name * {{marker|type=city| name=[[Souillac]] | lat=-20.51901 | long=57.52230| wikidata=Q2215428}} A small seaside resort along the rugged coast of the Savanne district. Nearby '''La Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes'''. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tamarin (Mauritius)|Tamarin]]|lat=-20.3356 | long=57.3724|wikidata=Q2322083}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Triolet]] | lat=-20.0598 | long=57.5516|wikidata=Q641130}} The longest village on the island, Triolet offers an opportunity to visit the biggest Hindu temple, the Maheswarnath, first built in 1819 in honour of the Gods Shiva, Krishna, Vishnu, Muruga, Brahma and Ganesha. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Trou d'Eau Douce]]|lat=-20.241|long=57.786|wikidata=Q3540824}} — In the east, visitors may easily visit '''L'Ile aux Cerf''' from there *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bel Ombre]]|lat=-20.504167|long=57.413889|wikidata=Q2894141}} — A village in Savanne District. <!-- Locations with population size (should these have articles) *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bel Air Rivière Sèche]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bambous (Mauritius)]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Baie-du-Tombeau]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chemin-Grenier]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Goodlands]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Lallmatie]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Le Hochet]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Plaine Magnien]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rose-Belle]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Saint Pierre, Mauritius]]|wikidata=}} --> ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Agaléga]]|wikidata=Q196042| lat=-10.41667|long=56.58333}} — a pair of outer islands 1000 km north of the main island; home to about 300 people, and now leased to the Indian military *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Rodrigues]]|lat=-19.717|long=63.417|wikidata=Q208668}} — a separate island 500 km east of the main island, but under the political control of Mauritius * {{listing|type=vicinity | name=Black River Gorges | alt= | url=http://npcs.govmu.org/English/Pages/NPCS%20Updated/Black-River-Gorges-National-Parks.aspx | email= | address= | lat=-20.416667 | long=57.416667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Black River Gorges National Park | image=BlackRiverGorges.jpg | wikidata=Q2421766 | content=This national park of 6,574 ha (16,244 acres) was created in 1994 for the protection of Mauritius’ remaining native forests. Visitors can enjoy magnificent landscapes, with endemic plants and rare bird species. A trail leads from the Pétrin information centre to an area of typical plant life and to a conservation area. }} * {{listing|type=vicinity | name=[[Le Morne]] cultural landscape | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-20.453 | long=57.321 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q1129992|lastedit=2024-10-10| content=A peninsula and an eponymous mountain in the southwest of Mauritius. Inscribed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]]. }} * {{listing | type=vicinity | name=Domaine du Chasseur | alt= | url=http://www.mauritius-tourist-guide.mu/listings/tourist-attractions/domaine-du-chasseur/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat=-20.337688 | long=57.717555 | directions= | phone=+230 634-5011 | tollfree= | fax=+230 634-5261 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-07-27 | content=Nestled in the Anse Jonchée hills, the Domaine des Grand Bois has splendid hunting grounds covering an area of 900 ha. Stags, monkeys and boars live amidst the luxuriant vegetation of the hillside. One can watch a few species of endangered birds, including the kestrel. The Domaine contains four thatched-roof bungalows and a [http://le-domaine-du-chasseur.restaurant.mu/ restaurant] with a panoramic sea view. Take an opportunity to enjoy a meal of venison. The view is great and well worth the visit, but the food can best be described as average. The venison is very chewy. There is a steep hike up the hill from the car park to the restaurant. The restaurant offers a 4WD taxi service which is free if you eat one of their overpriced meals, but if you only want a cup of tea or dessert they charge Rs230 per person for the 5-minute ride. }} *{{listing | type=vicinity | name=Macchabée - Bel Ombre Nature Preserve | alt= | url=https://www.belombrenaturereserve.com/adventures/unesco-biosphere-reserve | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2894141 | content=UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Heart of Bel Ombre }} *Antoinette Phooliyar- This place is highly symbolic as it here that the first batch of Indian Immigrants came to Mauritius during British period also known as the great experiment. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=Mauritius island location.svg}} [[File:Chamarel Falls Mauritius 2.JPG|thumb|Chamarel Falls]] The country consists of the main island of Mauritius and the smaller islands of [[Rodrigues]], the Agalegas and the Cargados Carajos shoals. The [[British Indian Ocean Territory]] is claimed by Mauritius and recognised as part of Mauritius by the United Nations, but remains under de facto British control, so we do not cover it here. === History === The island of Mauritius was first discovered by Arab sailors in the 9th century, though the exact date is unknown. At that time the island was uninhabited and covered in a dense forest. The Arab sailors were not interested in settling on the island which they named ''Dina Arobi'' or ''Dinarobin''. Fernandez Pereira, a Portuguese sailor saw the island in 1505 and decided to give it the name of ''Cerne''. However, the Portuguese did not settle permanently on the island either. The first to colonise the island were the Dutch, who took possession of the island in 1598. The Dutch settlers landed on a bay in the southeastern part of the island which was named ''Warwyck Haven'' after the commander Van Warwijck; the bay is now known as Grand Port. Mauritius also got its modern name during this period; the island was named after the Stadtholder of Holland, Maurits van Nassau. In 1710, the Dutch abandoned the island, leaving behind macaques, the java deer, sugarcane, fugitive slaves and, also, irreversible damage to the endemic and indigenous flora and fauna of the island. The dodo was, by then, extinct due to extensive hunting, the bird being very easy to capture, while the once abundant black ebony tree population was almost completely depleted due to its timber being overexploited. The French settled on the island in 1712, also landing at the bay in the southeast. They renamed the bay Port Bourbon and renamed the island ''Ile de France''. They settled and established their main harbour on the northwestern side of the island, which was to become Port Louis, the present day capital of the country. The French colonial period led to the economic development of Mauritius. Mahé de Labourdonnais, whose statue can be seen across from the harbour in Port Louis, is known as the founder of the capital city and the island prospered under his governance from 1735 to 1746. In August 1810, the British tried to take over the island but lost after a fierce battle against the French in the famous '''Battle of Grand Port''' &ndash; the only naval victory of the French over the British during the Napoleonic period. However, the British came back in December 1810 and defeated the French. From then on, the island was renamed Mauritius and remained under British rule until it attained independence, although the British agreed to allow the locals to continue using the French language. In 1835, slavery was officially abolished and, as most of the African slaves chose to abandon the agricultural fields and move to small coastal villages, indentured labourers ("coolies") were brought in from India to work in the growing sugarcane industry. To this day, ethnic Indians form the majority in Mauritius, and Mauritius is the only country outside South Asia to have a [[Hinduism|Hindu]] majority. On 12 March 1968 Mauritius became an independent nation within the Commonwealth. Three years before though, the British separated the administration of the Chagos Archipelago from the rest of Mauritius and formed the [[British Indian Ocean Territory]]. The government of Mauritius has claimed these islands now used as a joint American and British military base ever since, making the archipelago a disputed territory. Although the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in favour of Mauritius in 2017, the British government does not accept the ruling has refused to hand the islands over to Mauritius. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam also known as the "Father of the Nation" led the island to independence and did a lot to develop the country. During his reign however, Mauritius faced economic difficulties and political turmoil following the postponement of elections for more than 9 years. On 12 March 1992, Mauritius became a republic under the leadership of the then Prime Minister Sir Aneerood Jugnauth. A stable democracy with regular free elections and a positive human rights record means that it has attracted considerable foreign investment and has one of Africa's highest per capita incomes. ===Climate=== Tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; warm, dry winter (May to November); hot, wet, humid summer (November to May); ''Natural hazards'' : Tropical cyclones can occur between November and April, however are most likely from late December until March. Mauritius has only two seasons, winter and summer. Temperatures do not differ greatly over the seasons. The climate on the central plateau is cooler than on the coastal areas. *The hottest and driest part is the west coast *The windiest and wettest part is the east coast *December to February are the hottest months of the year *The driest month of the year is October *The coolest months are from June to August *[http://metservice.intnet.mu/ Mauritius Weather] - Current weather report from the Mauritius region. ===People=== Mauritius has a population of 1 million inhabitants. While there are no indigenous people on the island, its multiethnic society comprises a mix of Creoles, Chinese, Indians and French who are descendants of colonialism and labour. Mauritius is the only country outside [[South Asia]] with a [[Hinduism|Hindu]] majority. ===Tourist information === * [https://mymauritius.travel/ Mauritius Travel] website ==Talk== {{See also|French phrasebook}} Although the official language of Mauritius is '''English''', in practice '''[[French phrasebook|French]]''' is by far the most commonly spoken language, and is widely used in professional and formal settings. English language television programmes are usually dubbed into French. Most subjects are taught in and examined in British English in the education system, meaning that you will be able to communicate with locals in English with varying levels of difficulty. '''Mauritian Creole''' is a French-based creole which has incorporated some words from diverse sources including English, Dutch and Portuguese, and has slight pronunciation differences from French. Although locals generally converse with each other in Creole, standard French is also universally spoken and understood. Virtually everyone working in the tourism industry will be able to speak fairly decent, albeit heavily accented English, and all government departments will have English-speaking staff on duty. Other languages spoken by much smaller numbers include: [[Hindi phrasebook|Hindi]], [[Urdu phrasebook|Urdu]], Hakka, Bhojpuri and [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]]. Tamils constitute around 10% of the population and speak [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]]. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Mauritius.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Mauritius]] ===Visa requirements=== Citizens of many countries, including [[Japan]], [[Malaysia]], [[Singapore]], [[New Zealand]] and most other OECD countries do not need a visa in advance. For more information, visit [https://passport.govmu.org/passport/?page_id=605 the Passport and Immigration Office website]. If you require a visa to enter Mauritius, you might be able to apply for one at a British embassy, high commission or consulate in the country where you legally reside if there is no diplomatic post of Mauritius. For example, the British embassies in [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/saudiarabia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Al Khobar], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/jordan/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Amman], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/serbia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Belgrade], [https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/guatemala Guatemala City]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/indonesia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Jakarta], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/saudiarabia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Jeddah], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/kosovo/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Pristina], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/morocco/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Rabat], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/saudiarabia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Riyadh], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/italy/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Rome] and [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/bulgaria/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Sofia] accept Mauritius visa applications (this list is ''not'' exhaustive). British diplomatic posts charge GBP50 to process a Mauritius visa application and an extra GBP70 if the authorities in Mauritius require the visa application to be referred to them. The authorities in Mauritius can also decide to charge an additional fee if they correspond with you directly. As of June 2023 visitors are required to provide a form called "Mauritius All in One", accommodation and return ticket details to the immigration service on arrival. If you arrive in Mauritius from a country where malaria is endemic, you may receive a visit from the government health service and be required to give a blood sample for malaria screening. === By plane === [[File:'Mon Choisy' approaching rwy 14 at Plaisance.jpg|thumb|Air Mauritius is the national carrier]] '''[http://www.airmauritius.com Air Mauritius]''' is the home carrier and operates a network of routes to the local islands and international destinations in Africa, Australia, Europe and Asia. Regional airlines: [http://www.air-austral.com Air Austral], [https://www.airseychelles.com/ Air Seychelles], [https://www.flysafair.co.za/ FlySafair], [https://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways] and [https://www.flysaa.com South Africa Airways] connect Mauritius with continental Africa and the surrounding islands. International airlines such as Austrian, Air Belgium, [http://www.airfrance.com Air France], [http://www.ba.com British Airways], [http://www.condor.com Condor], [http://www.corsairfly.com Corsair International], Edelweiss Air, [http://www.emirates.com Emirates], Eurowings, Evelop Airlines, Saudia, TUI Airways, Turkish Airlines and Vistara serve Mauritius from their home bases. {{listing | type=go | name=Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport | alt={{IATA|MRU}} | url=http://aml.mru.aero/ | email= | address= | lat=-20.430028 | long=57.683022 | directions=at Plaisance in the southeast of the island | phone=+230 603 6000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport | image=Mauritius 23.08.2009 11-29-57.jpg | wikidata=Q36460 | content=It is the major gateway for international travellers. }} The arrivals hall can get congested in the morning when most of the flights from Europe arrive. Immigration officers tend to be quite slow and the whole immigration process can be a frustrating experience. ===By sea=== Vessels that arrive at the port are mainly cargo ships. The ''Mauritius Pride'' and the ''[http://www.mauritiusshipping.net/ Trochetia]'' are the Mauritian vessels that usually sail to and from [[Reunion|Réunion]] Island, [[Rodrigues]] Island and [[Madagascar]]. Costa Cruises ships have started an Indian Ocean cruise including a visit to Mauritius. In 2008, one-way passage prices from Tamatave in Madagascar to Mauritius by boat were €275 first class or €255 second class. The journey takes at least four days, more if transiting through Réunion. A boat leaves every other Wednesday. If you are going directly to the port in Tamatave you can negotiate with a boat captain for a non-cabin berth. Visiting the Nautical Club in Tamatave to enquire about yachts that might be heading to Mauritius rarely yields positive results. ==Get around== ===By plane=== *[http://www.airmauritius.com Air Mauritius] operates daily flights connecting Plaisance Airport and Rodrigues (flight time - 1 hour 15 minutes). ===By boat=== * {{listing | name=Coraline | alt= | url=http://www.mauritiusshipping.intnet.mu {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=sureka.toolooa@coraline.intnet.mu | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 208 5900 | tollfree= | fax=+230 210 5176 | hours= | price= |lastedit=2024-01-24| content=Sails once a week to Rodrigues Island and to Réunion island from Port Louis Harbour. Mauritius Pride, launched in 1991, and Mauritius Trochetia, in service since 2001, are the two ships operating on the Réunion route, and also have Madagascar as a destination. Both vessels are used as passenger and container ships. }} === By train === [[File:Mauritius Metro Express Map.svg|thumb|Metro Express route map]] The modern [https://mauritiusmetroexpress.mu/ Metro Express] light rail links [[Port Louis]] and [[Curepipe]], stopping at [[Rose Hill]], [[Quatre Bornes]] and [[Vacoas-Phoenix]] along the way. Trains run every 10 minutes from 6 AM to 7 PM, taking around 40 minutes from end to end (Rs 50). ===By bus=== Several fairly good bus services ply the island. Taking the bus is the most economical way of travelling. As of 2023 one way fare costs MUR 44. Air-conditioned buses have been introduced on some routes. The major bus companies are: * {{listing | name=National Transport Corporation | alt=NTC | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 426 2938 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=United Bus Service | alt=UBS | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 212 2026 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Mauritius Bus Transport | alt=MTB | url= | email= | address=Long mountain | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 245 2539 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Triolet Bus Service | alt=TBS | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 261 6725 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Others | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Other smaller companies have amusing names such as Apollo and Turbo. In late 2014 local buses were available in the parking area of SSR airport. They are cheap and follow more interesting routes than the luxury ones, but are slower. }} Buses are manned by a driver and a conductor who walks around collecting fares and issuing tickets after passengers have boarded. Most conductors are helpful in providing directions to tourists. In the local Creole dialect, the conductors are called ''con-tro-lair'' (literally controller). Bus routes and schedules are available from the [http://nta.govmu.org/English/Procedures/Pages/Hidden/Bus-Timetable.aspx Ministry of Land Transport] and [http://www.mauritius-buses.com/ Mauritius Buses] who list all the main operators and their schedules. Keep in mind that the bus driver may skip some stops or change itinerary if the number of customers is too low. Try to pay with exact change. Intentional over-charging of tourists is not common. ===By taxi=== Taxis are the best way to tour the island. Various tours are available as from Rs2,500: The holy lake, Chamarel 7 coloured earth, Le Morne, dolphin tours in Tamarin and Ile aux cerfs are among the most appreciated by visitors. Taxis in Mauritius do not use meters. Negotiate the price of your trip before you enter a taxi; otherwise, you may be overcharged. ===By car=== [[File:Mauritius 23.08.2009 09-19-10.jpg|thumb|Maconde curved road in Baie du Cap]] One major highway runs north to south, otherwise a good network of paved, if sometimes narrow, roads cover the island. Traffic drives on the left and priority is for vehicles coming from the right. Numerous car hire firms include major international and local car rental agencies. There are various cars and vehicles for every budget. Some of the most popular rental cars categories are, compact (small Japanese cars), SUV, Sedan, 4x4 and luxury models. Car rental prices in Mauritius average around €25/day. Some unlicensed car owners can offer lower prices, but you should be wary because this is not safe and often comes with numerous additional costs. To be on the safe side, with full insurance, visitors should rent cars from companies holding a tourism enterprise license. These cars are identifiable by their yellow number plates, while private cars have black plates. If you hire a car at the airport keep in mind that you will need to pay a MUR 30 charge when you are leaving the car park, and this has to be paid in cash. Regulations: drivers are required to be over 18 years old. Most [https://crystal-carrental.com/ car rental companies in Mauritius] require 2 years of driving experience or drivers above 21 years. Speed limits are 110 km/h (68 mph) on the motorway and 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas. Seat belts are compulsory. Foreign licences are accepted but should be readable in English or French. If your driving license is in another language, a certified translation (like an International Driving Permit) may be required to rent and drive on the island. Approximate travel times from Port Louis to other major cities, towns, and resorts in Mauritius: *Curepipe 30 min *Grand Baie, North 25 min *Mahebourg, Southeast 55 min *Flic-en-Flac, West 30 min ==See== {{movetocity}} ===Northern tourist zone=== [[File:Grand Baie, view from the offshore.JPG|thumb|[[Grand Bay]] from offshore]] [[Grand Bay]] was the first area of the island to fully experience the tourist boom. A shopping and leisure paradise, Grand Bay is also where Mauritians go when they want a fun-filled night out (restaurants, bars and discos). La Cuvette beach is well worth a visit as well as the wonderful Pereybere public beach is popular because of its shopping facilities, restaurants and pubs. The SSR botanical garden, [[Pamplemousses]], is the oldest botanical garden in the Southern Hemisphere. It was founded by Pierre Poivre (1719 – 1786) in 1770, contains some flora unique to Mauritius and covers an area of around 37 ha. It also has several animals, being especially famous for its fish, deer and tortoises, as well as an old replica of a sugar mill. ===East=== The eastern part of the island is known for its long sand bank beaches and famous hotels such as "The Coco Beach Hotel" and the 5-star "Le Touessrok". [[File:Sur l'ile aux cerfs.JPG|thumb|Île aux Cerfs]] [[Centre de Flacq]] is one of the most important villages in Mauritius. This meeting point for inhabitants of the East boasts the country’s largest open air market. This extremely colourful market attracts a large number of people. Ile aux Cerfs is a paradise for water sports and has one of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius. You cannot afford to miss this tiny island, delicately poised on the ocean, a real pearl in the Mauritian landscape. Price conscious visitors would be well advised to take ample food and drink, as the only bar and restaurant on the island primarily targets well-heeled tourists. Boats depart regularly from [[Trou d'Eau Douce]] village in the East (which has some of the best seafood restaurants on the island). There is a variety of vessels that serve the route including catamarans, yachts and "pirate-ships". Some serve food (usually barbecue, especially seafood) on board included in the price and tend to take a detour to the Grand River South East waterfalls for a visit. The island also has a 5-star hotel (Le Touessrok) and a golf course. ===Southeast=== [[Mahebourg]] is one of the main fishing villages on the island. Built on the magnificent Grand Port Bay, it was founded in 1804 by the French Governor Charles Decaën. The Monday markets are among the biggest and best on the island and are held right next to the main bus station. Just of the coast, as a result of the remarkable work accomplished by the Mauritius Wildlife Fund, '''Ile aux Aigrettes''' has become an international standard for the protection of natural resources and endangered species. A few of the world’s rarest birds, including the kestrel, can be seen there. You can also see the extremely rare Pink Pigeon, the Green Gecko Phelsuma and the Aldabra giant tortoise. Also nearby at Vieux Grand Port, the oldest settlement in Mauritius, you can see the ruins of the first Dutch fortifications. [[Souillac]], a small seaside resort along the rugged coast of the Savanne district. A notable feature is the garden overlooking the sea and named after Dr Charles Telfair. A popular viewpoint at the southern end of the village, right on the cliff top: Gris Gris. [[Blue Bay]], bluest water and most amazing white sand beaches you will ever see. Take the trip across the island from Port Louis and see what this quiet place has to offer. Very busy with the locals on weekends. Try to go during the week. Glass bottom boats are an excellent outing. Part of Blue Bay has been designated a Marine Park, and the snorkelling trips by boat to this area, offered for sale on the main public beach, are well worth trying. ===West=== The west coast has some of the best and longest white sandy beaches on the island. These include Trou aux Biches, winner of the World's Best Beach in the 2011 World Travel Awards; and Le Morne Beach which is shared by a number of 5-star resorts including Paradis Hotel & Golf Club (2012 World Travel Award winner 'Mauritius Leading Golf Resort'), the all-suite Dinarobin Golf & Spa, and Lux Le Morne. There is also a dedicated public beach between Dinarobin and Lux Le Morne. (All beaches in Mauritius are public.) [[File:Sunset at Flic en Flac Beach in Mauritius (53696897952).jpg|thumb|Flic en Flac beach]] [[Flic en Flac]], a local fishing village that has expanded to become a popular destination for tourists and expats. Flic en Flac has a very long white sandy beach stretching down the west coast to Tamarin which is enjoyed by locals and tourists. While the beach is great, there are many sea urchins in the very shallow water, wear shoes. Scuba Diving is the main attraction with excellent diving just a few minutes from the beach. There is a reasonable supermarket and a variety of accommodations and restaurants to suit all budgets. At [[Tamarin (Mauritius)|Tamarin]]'s beach of white sands and crystal clear waters both novice and expert surfers visit for some of the best waves on the island. The bay also has its own dolphin pod and dramatic views across to the Montage du Rempart, an extinct volcano. Owing to the exceptional high level of sunshine the district receives, Tamarin is the heart of salt production in Mauritius. Just south in La Preneuse are the Martello Towers, a milestone in the island’s history symbolising the end of slavery and the beginning of Indian immigration. A winding road leads from Case Noyale village to the '''Seven Coloured Earths''' of [[Chamarel]], an undulating landscape of different and contrasting shades of colours. The different shades of blue, green, red and yellow are apparently the result of the erosion of the volcanic ash. The neighbouring waterfalls of Chamarel rise from the moors and the native plant life. The site possesses a rare beauty. An adventure park has also been opened at Chamarel. [[File:Aerial view of the southwesternmost point of Mauritius (53696881722).jpg|thumb|Le Morne peninsula]] * {{see | name=Casela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-20.30836 | long=57.42350 | directions= | phone=+230 452-2828 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2016-07-27| content=Situated in the Rivière Noire district, the Casela Nature & Leisure Park stretches over 25 ha. It contains more than 140 bird species from five continents and is home to many other animals including giant tortoises, zebras, a tiger and ostriches. Activities include walking with lions, Rando Fun (ziplines & hanging bridges), quad, buggy & Segway and a petting farm. |wikidata=Q107100671}} * {{see | name=Yemen | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= -20.333908 | long=57.417597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Yemen Reserve may not be the largest game reserve on the island, but there is still lots to see. You will be able to get close to the herds of deer, and admire some splendid species of Mauritian fauna. A few rustic kiosks available in the reserve provide an unobstructed view of the sea. There you can sip a local punch while watching the sun going down. }} [[Le Morne Brabant|Le Morne]] is a peninsula and an eponymous mountain in the southwest of Mauritius. Inscribed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]]. ===The interior=== * {{see | name=Eureka | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 326-4775 | tollfree= | fax=+230 326-9732 | hours= | price= |lastedit=2024-10-10| content= Is an old Creole residence built in 1830, Eureka is an essential place to visit during your stay in Mauritius if you wish to immerse yourself in tropical sweetness. Includes a tour of the colonial house with the opportunity to purchase overpriced textile products, and a tour of the gardens and a visit to the waterfalls below. |wikidata=Q124453811}} * {{see | name=Ganga Talao - Grand Bassin | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-20.418056 | long=57.491944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ganga Talao | image=GangaTalaoLake.jpg | wikidata=Q2338515 | content=Beyond La Marie and '''Mare-aux-Vacoas''' is found one of the two natural lakes of Mauritius. It rests within the crater of an extinct volcano. Ganga Talao is an important pilgrimage site and many Mauritians of the Hindu faith walk there during the Maha Shivaratri festival or the night fasting dedicated to Shiva. Gigantic eels live in the lake and are fed by the pilgrims. A walk to the top of the mount beside the lake is recommended for beautiful views over the area known as "Plaine Champagne". }} ==Do== [[File:Le Pouce, Mauritius.jpg|thumb|right|Climbing Le Pouce]] *'''Views''' &mdash; For a spectacular 360⁰ view of Port Louis and the north, climb Le Pouce or ‘the thumb', at 812 m (2,664&nbsp;ft). It is an easy 2-hour climb from the village of Petit Verger (near St. Pierre), and takes another 2 hour to walk into Port Louis ([http://www.wikiloc.com/wikiloc/view.do?id=371324 map]). The top of Signal Mountain also offers a spectacular view of Port Louis and the North. It is much easier to climb Signal Mountain from Labourdonnais Street as there is a tarred jogging track and it takes around 45 minutes to walk to the top. Starting from Saint Louis is also possible. *'''Tour the Moka mountains''' &mdash; by quad bike, horse or 4-wheel drive at the accessible 1,500-hectare (3,700-acre) nature park of Domaine Les Pailles. Travel to the sugar mill and rum distillery by train or horse-drawn carriage before dining in one of four restaurants. *'''Deep sea fishing''' &mdash; Mauritius is ideally positioned for game-fishing. Depending on the time of year it is possible to catch blue or black marlin, sailfish, wahoo, yellow fin tuna, giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, bonito, dolphinfish, sharks and many more. The majority of the big game fishing boats are well equipped with VHF radio, mobile telephone, GPS navigation system, radar, radio telephone, safety equipment, Penn International reels, life jackets, medical kits, fire extinguishers, flares, and all related fishing equipment such as fighting chairs and rods (usually 9). You can choose between half day and full day fishing trips . Big game fishing is best on the west coast of Mauritius because the currents swirl around the foot of Le Morne, creating a marine environment attractive to bait fish, which in turn attracts the larger fish. Boats usually accommodate up to 5 anglers and full day trips typically include breakfast and lunch in the price. *Head to '''Grand Baie''' &mdash; For watersports such as parasailing, an underwater walk, submarine and semi-submersible scooters, or to La Cuvette, a long beach with clear water between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux, for sailing, windsurfing and waterskiing. *'''Safari jeep trips''' &mdash; The Safari Jeep trip takes place in Yemen natural reserve park on the West Coast of Mauritius. It hosts two of the longest rivers on the island – Rivière Rempart and Tamarin River – and is a haven for all sorts of native and exotic wildlife. The actual size of this natural reserve is of around 4,500 hectares. The Yemen Park is the setting for Safari trips where you will have a thrilling ride and will be able to see many beautiful animals such as Zebras, ostriches, African antelopes, Java deer, monkeys, ducks and geese, and will see extraordinary panoramic views of this breathtaking part of the island. *'''Safari quad biking trips''' &mdash; Experience an adventurous Quad biking activity in the most amazing natural setting quad-biking activity in the 4,500 ha of Yemen natural reserve park. More than a quad bike outing as it includes a safari. During the trip it is possible to see deer, zebras, ostriches, African antelopes and wild boars. *'''Swim''' &mdash; At the northern beaches such as Trou aux Biches, shaded by casuarinas, Mont Choisy, a 2-km (1.2 mi) narrow white stretch of sand curving north from there, and Péreybère, a little cove between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux. [[File:View from the bottom of the boat Grand Baie.JPG|thumb|right|Glass bottomed boat in Grand Bay]] *'''Diving''' &mdash; When you dive in Mauritius you can explore coral reefs, multi-coloured marine life, ship wrecks dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, or some ships sunk more recently which create beautiful artificial reefs. There are numerous dive sites strewn all around the island, as well as some near the offshore island of [[Rodrigues]]. One of the well-known and popular dive sites in Mauritius is the cathedral, which is located off the Flic en Flac on the western coast of Mauritius. Other dive sites in Mauritius include the Whale Rock and Roche Zozo that is an underwater rock pinnacle, and the submerged crater near Ile Ronde. Mauritius is almost completely encircled by a barrier coral reef which is home to many sponges, sea anemones and a variety of brightly coloured fish such as Damselfish, Trumpet fish, Boxfish and clown fish, as well as the orange Mauritian scorpionfish. Most of the dive sites are located on the west coast around Flic-en-Flac or in the north, at Trou aux Biches or at the Northern Islands. The best time to go diving is from November to April with very good visibility underwater. *[[Snorkeling and freediving in Mauritius|'''Snorkeling & freediving''' in Mauritius]] offers some easy to access coral reefs in shallow water with a variety of fish. *'''Speedboat''' &mdash; Rides are available from Trou d'eau Douce to the popular island playground of Ile aux Cerfs for beaches, golf and watersports. Or, for a quieter day, a catamaran to the Northern Islands - Gabriel Island, Flat Island and Gunner's Quoin. *[[Hiking and trekking in Mauritius|'''Hiking and trekking''' in Mauritius]] with breathtaking views of mountains, rivers, and forests. Enjoy a hiking trip through the fields, trekking on a zip line or on a bike, and discover this magnificent nature paradise Mauritius being a volcanic island has several breathtaking summits and valleys to explore on foot. You can visit the Black River Gorges National Park, a 6,794-ha (16,788-acre) forest, to see indigenous plants, birds and wildlife. Black River Peak trail goes to Mauritius' highest mountain, while the Maccabee Trail starts nearby and plunges into the gorge to Black River. A challenging path follows the Tamarind waterfalls. *'''Tandem skydiving''' &mdash; Experience a {{ft|10,000}} skydive in Mauritius. Enjoy a spectacular scenic flight and a tandem skydive. Tandem skydiving refers to a type of skydiving where a student skydiver is connected via a harness to a tandem instructor. The instructor guides the student through the whole jump from exit through freefall, piloting the canopy, and landing. The student needs only minimal instruction before making a tandem jump. *'''Horse racing''' &mdash; The Mauritius horse racing club commonly called the Champ de Mars was founded in 1812, making it the oldest horse-racing club in the Southern Hemisphere. Horse racing is the most popular sport in Mauritius, and attracts about 30,000 visitors on each race day. The horse racing season usually starts in April and ends in late November. There are an average of 9 and a maximum of 12 horses per race. On average some 60 horses participate on each racing day. It is highly recommended to go and experience the electric atmosphere of horse racing in Mauritius. For those interested it is also possible have a VIP treatment in one of the VIP suites while enjoying snacks and drinks and a clear view of the race from your private balcony *'''Parasailing''' &mdash; For those looking for a fun sea-air activity, you can try parasailing. You will be rewarded with a breathtaking bird's eye view of the beautiful lagoon and beaches. The parasailing begins with a short safety briefing. Then you will be taken by boat to the launch pod where you will take off and start the parasailing. No steering is necessary as the sail follows the course of the boat *'''Water ski''' &mdash; Water-skiing is one of the most popular water sports in Mauritius. You can enjoy water skiing along several of Mauritius’ coasts or in a few of the lakes. The best area for water skiing is considered to be the north area of the island, along the coasts, where the lagoon provides full protection from the big waves of the open sea and offers ideal water skiing conditions of very calm sea *'''Watch dolphins''' &mdash; Go on a speed boat trip and watch dolphins in the open sea. You can choose between 2-hr trip, half-day and full-day trips where you will get to watch with the bottlenose dolphin and the spinner dolphin, which have made of the West Coast of Mauritius a place for them to rest before going to the deep sea for their fishing. *'''Walk with lions & cheetahs''' &mdash; Experience a one-on-one encounter with lions and cheetahs. Viewing the lions from very close, see them playing and hopping on the rocks of the river banks and scaling the trees. The lions roam freely amongst the participants giving visitors a rare opportunity of being in close contact with them. *'''Blue safari submarine''' &mdash; See the wonderful underwater tropical fish without even getting your feet wet. Going underwater to 35 m depth on board of a real submarine. You will get to visit a shipwreck, explore the rich coral reefs, and observe and encounter various species of fish. The submarine is air-conditioned with transparent-glassed cabin so you will enjoy exceptionally clear panoramic views of the extraordinary underwater world. *'''Underwater submarine scooter adventure''' &mdash; Pilot your own underwater scooter, or as a couple, to 3-4 m depth. Comfortably seated one behind the other, you breath freely and naturally in a transparent and panoramic cupola which allow you to enjoy the view of the reef and marine life. In advance you will receive a briefing about the control of the underwater scooter, and will be equipped with a diving suit. *'''Sea kayaking''' &mdash; A great way to explore the fine greenery of the lagoons, or the open waters of the Indian Ocean. It is possible to find wide range of sea kayaking trips and packages from breezy, calmer routes, to a few days trip surrounding the island in the deep ocean waters. This is also possible to have a kayak trip to any of the small islets surrounding the main island such as Ile D'Ambre Island. *'''Rock climbing''' &mdash; Rock climbing on the South West coast of Mauritius. You will get to experience rock climbing in a beautiful setting Of the Belle Vue Cliffs, where the caves of "La Pointe aux Caves" are nestled and in close proximity from the famous lighthouse of Albion. This is a great outdoor sport where you will learn the basic techniques of knots, safe climbing and rock progression from Mauritius’ top professional guides. *'''Canyoning''' &mdash; For those seeking more of an adrenalin rush and thrill, canyoning is abseiling down the steep walls of the canyons using nature watercourses and canyoning gear. The canyoning is offered in few locations in Mauritius. The canyoning (known also as canyoneering) in Mauritius consists of travelling in canyons using a variety of techniques that may include walking, climbing, jumping, abseiling, and/or swimming. Most canyoning tours will do the tamarind falls (7 cascades). You'll start at the top of the 7 waterfalls; beginner tours will go down the first 2-3 waterfalls and then walk back up for about 20 minutes to get back to the start. [[File:Rodrigues EasternSlopesOfGrandeMontagne.jpg|thumb|Eastern slopes of Grande Montagne, Rodrigues]] *'''[[Rodrigues]] island''' &mdash; Tiny, rugged, volcanic it lies 550 km (340 mi) northeast of Mauritius and is known as the ‘anti-stress' island. The capital, Port Mathurin, is only seven streets wide, with a Creole population. Rodrigues offers walking, diving, kitesurfing and deep sea fishing. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mauritian rupee | currencyCode=Rs | date=January 2025 | USD=45 | EUR=53 | GBP=62 | ZAR=2.5 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mur-mauritian-rupee XE.com] }} The '''Mauritian rupee''' (French: ''roupie mauricienne'') is denoted by the symbol "'''Rs.'''" or "'''₨'''" with or without a full stop and placed before or after the amount (ISO international currency: '''MUR'''). Banknotes come in denominations of Rs 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000. Coins come in denominations of Rs 1, 5, 10 and 20. ===Shop=== Mauritius is not at all like Bali or Thailand. Don't expect the local merchants to be interested in prolonged bargaining. Many shops will not reduce prices, and even at the markets don't expect more than a 10-20% reduction. There are some bargains however as many large brand names clothing companies manufacture in Mauritius, and you can often find over-runs or slightly flawed items at a fraction of the European prices. It is also a good place to find unusual jewellery and handicrafts such as artificial flowers, model boats and wooden art. It is possible to reach the main shopping centres by public transport, or to take a full day shopping tour which includes a driver to take you to the main centres and handicraft workshops. The Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis offers a variety of shops (including designer shops) and is an ideal place for shopping by tourists. For traditional crafts, a good place is Port Louis Central Market (Bazaar Port Louis). ==Eat== Don't hesitate to go to the various restaurants around the island. Although many of them advertise a specific ethnic cuisine, like everywhere around the world they have their own mix of traditional and local. You might discover that 'fried rice' can have more than one flavor. [[File:Bengali Rasgulla.jpg|thumb|Bengali rasagulas are very popular in Mauritius.]] Gastronomes will find a variety of flavors and aromas inherited from the different migrations through its history. Culinary traditions from France, India, China and Eastern Africa have been passed on through generations. Depending on the region, rice or a variety of flat bread called chapattis or roti, called farata (paratha) by the local people, is eaten with curries. The extensive use of spices like saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves and herbs such as thyme, basil, and curry leaves are the common ingredients that provide some powerful, yet subtle, flavor. Dal, a variety of lentil soup, are many and varied according to the type of lentil used; vegetables, beans, and pickles accompany the dishes. Dholl puri, originally an Indian delicacy, has become the fish and chips for Mauritians. Biryani from Mughal origins is a dish prepared by the Muslim community, where meat is mixed with spiced rice and potatoes. You can buy many snacks on the street including the famous gateaux piments (a variant of the Indian vadai; literally, chilly cakes), and vegetable or meat samosas (puffs), along with octopus curry in bread. The tomato and onion based dish called Rougaille (pronounced ''rooh-guy'') is a variation of the French ragoût. The dish usually consists of meat or seafood (corned beef and salted snoek fish rougaille are very popular with the locals). Mauritians eat this dish often if not daily. Mauritians have a sweet tooth and make many types of 'gateaux', as they are called. You can find a variety of cakes, including some that are very much like those in France and others similar to Indian sweets like gulab jamun and rasgulla. When leaving Mauritius, don't wait until you go through passport control if you want to have a snack. The coffee shop after passport control is expensive. You would be better off visiting the snack bar before check-in and taking your purchases with you. Remember that you can only take limited amounts of liquids through passport control. ==Drink== [[File:Phoenix Bier Mauritius 2019-09-28.jpg|thumb|160x160px|A bottle of Phoenix beer]] Mauritius produces a wide range of cane rum. It is very cheap and is a nice drink when mixed with cola and ice. A popular drink is coconut water with a dash of lime and a splash of local rum over ice. The local beer, Phoenix, costs around Rs30 for a pint. Usually served very cold. The local Black Eagle beer, brewed in Nouvelle France is also good. A local beer called Flying Dodo also offers beer with tropical fruits mix. The '''Medine Estate Refinery''' shop at Bambous (4 km from Flic en Flac), on the west of the Island, has a wide variety of locally produced rums and liquors. ==Sleep== There are many international brand hotels in Mauritius but there are some luxurious hotels which are owned by Mauritian companies. An increasing trend is for tourists to choose self-catered bungalows and apartments, many of them located directly on the beach. Foreigners can buy villas, many of them in compounds located on the beach, through the IRS or RES Scheme. ==Learn== Mauritius offers several study options for international students. The country has a growing education sector with a range of institutions offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. ===Higher education=== * '''University of Mauritius''', located in Réduit, offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in various fields including arts, science, engineering, and law. International students can obtain a postgraduate degree for approximately US$1500 per year of study, that can sometimes be completed online as well. * '''University of Technology Mauritius''', located in Pointe-aux-Sables, offers degrees in engineering, applied sciences, and management. * '''Open University of Mauritius''', located in Réduit, offers distance learning courses in a range of subjects including business, education, and science. * '''Middlesex University Mauritius''', located in Cascavelle, offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in business, law, media, and psychology. ===Language schools=== Mauritius also offers several language schools for those looking to improve their language skills. Some popular options include: * '''Alliance Française de Maurice''', located in Port Louis, offers French language courses for all levels. * '''Confucius Institute at University of Mauritius''', located in Réduit, offers Chinese language courses for all levels. * '''Mauritius Institute of Education''', located in Réduit, offers courses in English language teaching for non-native speakers. ===Study visa=== International students may require a study visa to study in Mauritius. The visa application process can be completed online through the Passport and Immigration Office website. It is important to check the visa requirements and eligibility criteria before applying. ==Stay safe== [[File:Le Morne, Mauritius.JPG|thumb|Le Morne]] The crime rate has fallen, and Mauritius is a much safer country for visitors than most other destinations. The Tourism Police and Coast Guards patrol regularly in areas frequented by tourists, and most cities, beaches and other major attractions are under camera surveillance. Nevertheless, you should look out for suspicious behavior. ===Telephone numbers=== * {{listing | name=Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=999, 112 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= | wikidata=Q208022}} * {{listing | name=Tourism Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 213 1740,+230 210 3894 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Coast guards | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 280 8317,+230 212 2747 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q130456319|lastedit=2024-10-10| content= }} * {{listing | name=Port Police | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Anti Drug Unit (ADSU) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 208 1212 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Traffic Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 211 8434,+230 211 8478 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Environment Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 210 5151, +230 210 5252 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Fire | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=115, 995 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=SAMU Ambulance | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=114 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=National Directory | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=150 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Airport of Mauritius | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 603 6000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q36460|lastedit=2024-10-10| content= }} * {{listing | name=Air Mauritius | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 207 7575 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q407556|lastedit=2024-10-10| content= }} ==Stay healthy== Mauritius is a risk area for infection with [[dengue fever]], also known as "breakbone fever" from the muscular convulsions it causes. No vaccine is available. Dengue re-emerged in 2019 after several dengue-free years, so be sure to take precautious against mosquito bites. Since 2005 during the high season a certain type of mosquito called the Aedes albopictus causes the viral illness Chikungunya and the insect is more likely to be around in the daytime. It is important to use anti-mosquito protection at all times. Mosquitoes are more prevalent in rural areas but they can also inhabit the beach in the tourist zone and may lead to swollen joints and/or rashes. Symptoms last from one week up to several months depending how seriously you are affected. Some people recover quickly but it can take several months to recover completely. In 1991 86% of the population had antibodies indicating that they had been exposed to the hepatitis A virus, following an epidemic of the disease in 1989. Hepatitis A vaccination is generally recommended for travel in East Africa (and most other places) by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Depending on the time of the year, many of the beaches are infested with sea urchins, and it is not uncommon to see broken glass on the beach or in the water. It is a very good idea to either buy or bring plastic/wet shoes when venturing into the water. This is generally not a problem at the big hotels as the designated swimming areas on the beaches are regularly cleaned of urchins and debris. Use wet shoes nonetheless. Reef fish in Mauritius have been found to contain a neurotoxin similar, but not identical, to that found in Caribbean reef fish. It is important not to eat peanuts or drink alcohol if you eat coral or reef fish like sea bass, snapper, mullet, and grouper. The fish eat the toxic algae that grows on the coral reefs. Don't eat intestines or testes of the fish as higher concentrations of the toxin collect here. The symptoms include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting and diarrhoea and sometimes loss of feeling in the limbs. The '''[[tap water]]''' is generally considered potable and most Mauritians drink it, but for visitors who aren't used to it, bottled water is recommended. At nearby island [[Réunion]] you can get treatment with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). ==Connect== Mauritius has a few telecommunications companies, the main ones being Emtel and My.t. They both sell sim card and E-sim at the airport from 700 MUR per month. Passport is required.{{isPartOf|East African Islands}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|-20.2|57.5|zoom=10}} 0i8c5didx9kh6tx8171adov20mr9nl8 5091300 5091299 2025-07-11T10:17:12Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091300 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mauritius banner Sunset.jpg|caption=|unesco=yes}} '''Mauritius''' ([[French phrasebook|French]]: ''Maurice'', Mauritian Creole: ''Moris'') is an island nation in the [[Indian Ocean]] about {{km|2300}} from the [[Africa]]n continent. Mauritius is mostly appreciated by visitors for its natural beauty and man-made attractions, multi-ethnic and cultural diversity, tropical climate, beautiful beaches and water sports. ==Cities== <!--The island is divided into nine districts plus several independent minor islands. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Map of Mauritius.png | regionmapsize=500px | region1name=[[Rivière du Rempart]] | region1color=#D5DC76 | region1items= | region1description= | region2name=[[Pamplemousses]] | region2color=#69999F | region2items= | region2description= | region3name=[[Port Louis District|Port Louis]] | region3color=#D09440 | region3items= | region3description= | region4name=[[Moka District|Moka]] | region4color=#71B37B | region4items= | region4description= | region5name=[[Flacq]] | region5color=#B5D29F | region5items= | region5description= | region6name=[[Plaines Wilhems]] | region6color=#D56D76 | region6items= | region6description= | region7name=[[Black River]] (Rivière Noire) | region7color=#B383B3 | region7items= | region7description= | region8name=[[Grand Port]] | region8color=#AC5C91 | region8items= | region8description= | region9name=[[Savanne]] | region9color=#578E86 | region9items= | region9description= | region10name=[[Rodrigues]] | region10color=#4F93C0 | region10items= | region10description= }}--> {{Mapframe|-20.25|57.55|zoom=10|height=520|width=420}}{{mapshape}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Port Louis]]|lat=-20.1667|long=57.5|wikidata=Q3929}}— capital of Mauritius *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Beau Bassin-Rose Hill]]|lat=-20.239806|long=57.471694}}, the country's second biggest settlement. *[[Bel Ombre]] *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Curepipe]]|lat=-20.318775|long=57.526294|wikidata=Q1002525}} is the largest highland city in Mauritius. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Quatre Bornes]]|lat=-20.265|long=57.479|wikidata=Q1341194}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Vacoas-Phoenix]]|lat=-20.300047|long=57.474508|wikidata=Q676724}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Blue Bay]]|lat=-20.4410|long=57.7191|wikidata=Q14202736}}, bluest water and most amazing white sand beaches you will ever see. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Centre de Flacq]]|lat=-20.2002|long=57.717658}} one of the most important villages in Mauritius. This meeting point for inhabitants of the East boasts the country's largest open air market. This extremely colourful market attracts a lot of people. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chamarel]]|lat=-20.42463|long=57.3885|wikidata=Q1060502}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Grand Bay]]|lat=-20.018394|long=57.580172|wikidata=Q992154}} ''Grand-Baie'', a shopping and leisure paradise. With adjoining '''Pereybère''' beach resort. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Flic en Flac]]|lat=-20.282|long=57.370|wikidata=Q3073702}}, a local fishing village that has expanded to become a popular destination for tourists and expats. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Mahébourg]]|lat=-20.4000|long=57.7000|wikidata=Q1291379}} is one of the main fishing villages on the island. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Pamplemousses]]|lat=-20.109 | long=57.576|wikidata=Q934126}} village in the district of the same name * {{marker|type=city| name=[[Souillac]] | lat=-20.51901 | long=57.52230| wikidata=Q2215428}} A small seaside resort along the rugged coast of the Savanne district. Nearby '''La Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes'''. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tamarin (Mauritius)|Tamarin]]|lat=-20.3356 | long=57.3724|wikidata=Q2322083}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Triolet]] | lat=-20.0598 | long=57.5516|wikidata=Q641130}} The longest village on the island, Triolet offers an opportunity to visit the biggest Hindu temple, the Maheswarnath, first built in 1819 in honour of the Gods Shiva, Krishna, Vishnu, Muruga, Brahma and Ganesha. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Trou d'Eau Douce]]|lat=-20.241|long=57.786|wikidata=Q3540824}} — In the east, visitors may easily visit '''L'Ile aux Cerf''' from there *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bel Ombre]]|lat=-20.504167|long=57.413889|wikidata=Q2894141}} — A village in Savanne District. <!-- Locations with population size (should these have articles) *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bel Air Rivière Sèche]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bambous (Mauritius)]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Baie-du-Tombeau]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Chemin-Grenier]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Goodlands]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Lallmatie]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Le Hochet]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Plaine Magnien]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rose-Belle]]|wikidata=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Saint Pierre, Mauritius]]|wikidata=}} --> ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Agaléga]]|wikidata=Q196042| lat=-10.41667|long=56.58333}} — a pair of outer islands 1000 km north of the main island; home to about 300 people, and now leased to the Indian military *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Rodrigues]]|lat=-19.717|long=63.417|wikidata=Q208668}} — a separate island 500 km east of the main island, but under the political control of Mauritius * {{listing|type=vicinity | name=Black River Gorges | alt= | url=http://npcs.govmu.org/English/Pages/NPCS%20Updated/Black-River-Gorges-National-Parks.aspx | email= | address= | lat=-20.416667 | long=57.416667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Black River Gorges National Park | image=BlackRiverGorges.jpg | wikidata=Q2421766 | content=This national park of 6,574 ha (16,244 acres) was created in 1994 for the protection of Mauritius’ remaining native forests. Visitors can enjoy magnificent landscapes, with endemic plants and rare bird species. A trail leads from the Pétrin information centre to an area of typical plant life and to a conservation area. }} * {{listing|type=vicinity | name=[[Le Morne]] cultural landscape | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-20.453 | long=57.321 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q1129992|lastedit=2024-10-10| content=A peninsula and an eponymous mountain in the southwest of Mauritius. Inscribed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]]. }} * {{listing | type=vicinity | name=Domaine du Chasseur | alt= | url=http://www.mauritius-tourist-guide.mu/listings/tourist-attractions/domaine-du-chasseur/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat=-20.337688 | long=57.717555 | directions= | phone=+230 634-5011 | tollfree= | fax=+230 634-5261 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-07-27 | content=Nestled in the Anse Jonchée hills, the Domaine des Grand Bois has splendid hunting grounds covering an area of 900 ha. Stags, monkeys and boars live amidst the luxuriant vegetation of the hillside. One can watch a few species of endangered birds, including the kestrel. The Domaine contains four thatched-roof bungalows and a [http://le-domaine-du-chasseur.restaurant.mu/ restaurant] with a panoramic sea view. Take an opportunity to enjoy a meal of venison. The view is great and well worth the visit, but the food can best be described as average. The venison is very chewy. There is a steep hike up the hill from the car park to the restaurant. The restaurant offers a 4WD taxi service which is free if you eat one of their overpriced meals, but if you only want a cup of tea or dessert they charge Rs230 per person for the 5-minute ride. }} *{{listing | type=vicinity | name=Macchabée - Bel Ombre Nature Preserve | alt= | url=https://www.belombrenaturereserve.com/adventures/unesco-biosphere-reserve | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2894141 | content=UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Heart of Bel Ombre }} *Antoinette Phooliyar- This place is highly symbolic as it here that the first batch of Indian Immigrants came to Mauritius during British period also known as the great experiment. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=Mauritius island location.svg}} [[File:Chamarel Falls Mauritius 2.JPG|thumb|Chamarel Falls]] The country consists of the main island of Mauritius and the smaller islands of [[Rodrigues]], the Agalegas and the Cargados Carajos shoals. The [[British Indian Ocean Territory]] is claimed by Mauritius and recognised as part of Mauritius by the United Nations, but remains under de facto British control, so we do not cover it here. === History === The island of Mauritius was first discovered by Arab sailors in the 9th century, though the exact date is unknown. At that time the island was uninhabited and covered in a dense forest. The Arab sailors were not interested in settling on the island which they named ''Dina Arobi'' or ''Dinarobin''. Fernandez Pereira, a Portuguese sailor saw the island in 1505 and decided to give it the name of ''Cerne''. However, the Portuguese did not settle permanently on the island either. The first to colonise the island were the Dutch, who took possession of the island in 1598. The Dutch settlers landed on a bay in the southeastern part of the island which was named ''Warwyck Haven'' after the commander Van Warwijck; the bay is now known as Grand Port. Mauritius also got its modern name during this period; the island was named after the Stadtholder of Holland, Maurits van Nassau. In 1710, the Dutch abandoned the island, leaving behind macaques, the java deer, sugarcane, fugitive slaves and, also, irreversible damage to the endemic and indigenous flora and fauna of the island. The dodo was, by then, extinct due to extensive hunting, the bird being very easy to capture, while the once abundant black ebony tree population was almost completely depleted due to its timber being overexploited. The French settled on the island in 1712, also landing at the bay in the southeast. They renamed the bay Port Bourbon and renamed the island ''Ile de France''. They settled and established their main harbour on the northwestern side of the island, which was to become Port Louis, the present day capital of the country. The French colonial period led to the economic development of Mauritius. Mahé de Labourdonnais, whose statue can be seen across from the harbour in Port Louis, is known as the founder of the capital city and the island prospered under his governance from 1735 to 1746. In August 1810, the British tried to take over the island but lost after a fierce battle against the French in the famous '''Battle of Grand Port''' &ndash; the only naval victory of the French over the British during the Napoleonic period. However, the British came back in December 1810 and defeated the French. From then on, the island was renamed Mauritius and remained under British rule until it attained independence, although the British agreed to allow the locals to continue using the French language. In 1835, slavery was officially abolished and, as most of the African slaves chose to abandon the agricultural fields and move to small coastal villages, indentured labourers ("coolies") were brought in from India to work in the growing sugarcane industry. To this day, ethnic Indians form the majority in Mauritius, and Mauritius is the only country outside South Asia to have a [[Hinduism|Hindu]] majority. On 12 March 1968 Mauritius became an independent nation within the Commonwealth. Three years before though, the British separated the administration of the Chagos Archipelago from the rest of Mauritius and formed the [[British Indian Ocean Territory]]. The government of Mauritius has claimed these islands now used as a joint American and British military base ever since, making the archipelago a disputed territory. Although the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in favour of Mauritius in 2017, the British government does not accept the ruling has refused to hand the islands over to Mauritius. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam also known as the "Father of the Nation" led the island to independence and did a lot to develop the country. During his reign however, Mauritius faced economic difficulties and political turmoil following the postponement of elections for more than 9 years. On 12 March 1992, Mauritius became a republic under the leadership of the then Prime Minister Sir Aneerood Jugnauth. A stable democracy with regular free elections and a positive human rights record means that it has attracted considerable foreign investment and has one of Africa's highest per capita incomes. ===Climate=== Tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; warm, dry winter (May to November); hot, wet, humid summer (November to May); ''Natural hazards'' : Tropical cyclones can occur between November and April, however are most likely from late December until March. Mauritius has only two seasons, winter and summer. Temperatures do not differ greatly over the seasons. The climate on the central plateau is cooler than on the coastal areas. *The hottest and driest part is the west coast *The windiest and wettest part is the east coast *December to February are the hottest months of the year *The driest month of the year is October *The coolest months are from June to August *[http://metservice.intnet.mu/ Mauritius Weather] - Current weather report from the Mauritius region. ===People=== Mauritius has a population of 1 million inhabitants. While there are no indigenous people on the island, its multiethnic society comprises a mix of Creoles, Chinese, Indians and French who are descendants of colonialism and labour. Mauritius is the only country outside [[South Asia]] with a [[Hinduism|Hindu]] majority. ===Tourist information === * [https://mymauritius.travel/ Mauritius Travel] website ==Talk== {{See also|French phrasebook}} Although the official language of Mauritius is '''English''', in practice '''[[French phrasebook|French]]''' is by far the most commonly spoken language, and is widely used in professional and formal settings. English language television programmes are usually dubbed into French. Most subjects are taught in and examined in British English in the education system, meaning that you will be able to communicate with locals in English with varying levels of difficulty. '''Mauritian Creole''' is a French-based creole which has incorporated some words from diverse sources including English, Dutch and Portuguese, and has slight pronunciation differences from French. Although locals generally converse with each other in Creole, standard French is also universally spoken and understood. Virtually everyone working in the tourism industry will be able to speak fairly decent, albeit heavily accented English, and all government departments will have English-speaking staff on duty. Other languages spoken by much smaller numbers include: [[Hindi phrasebook|Hindi]], [[Urdu phrasebook|Urdu]], Hakka, Bhojpuri and [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]]. Tamils constitute around 10% of the population and speak [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]]. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Mauritius.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Mauritius]] ===Visa requirements=== Citizens of many countries, including [[Japan]], [[Malaysia]], [[Singapore]], [[New Zealand]] and most other OECD countries do not need a visa in advance. For more information, visit [https://passport.govmu.org/passport/?page_id=605 the Passport and Immigration Office website]. If you require a visa to enter Mauritius, you might be able to apply for one at a British embassy, high commission or consulate in the country where you legally reside if there is no diplomatic post of Mauritius. For example, the British embassies in [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/saudiarabia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Al Khobar], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/jordan/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Amman], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/serbia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Belgrade], [https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/guatemala Guatemala City]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/indonesia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Jakarta], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/saudiarabia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Jeddah], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/kosovo/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Pristina], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/morocco/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Rabat], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/saudiarabia/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Riyadh], [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/italy/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Rome] and [http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/countries/bulgaria/commonwealth-bots/?langname=null Sofia] accept Mauritius visa applications (this list is ''not'' exhaustive). British diplomatic posts charge GBP50 to process a Mauritius visa application and an extra GBP70 if the authorities in Mauritius require the visa application to be referred to them. The authorities in Mauritius can also decide to charge an additional fee if they correspond with you directly. As of June 2023 visitors are required to provide a form called "Mauritius All in One", accommodation and return ticket details to the immigration service on arrival. If you arrive in Mauritius from a country where malaria is endemic, you may receive a visit from the government health service and be required to give a blood sample for malaria screening. === By plane === [[File:'Mon Choisy' approaching rwy 14 at Plaisance.jpg|thumb|Air Mauritius is the national carrier]] '''[http://www.airmauritius.com Air Mauritius]''' is the home carrier and operates a network of routes to the local islands and international destinations in Africa, Australia, Europe and Asia. Regional airlines: [http://www.air-austral.com Air Austral], [https://www.airseychelles.com/ Air Seychelles], [https://www.flysafair.co.za/ FlySafair], [https://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways] and [https://www.flysaa.com South Africa Airways] connect Mauritius with continental Africa and the surrounding islands. International airlines such as Austrian, Air Belgium, [http://www.airfrance.com Air France], [http://www.ba.com British Airways], [http://www.condor.com Condor], [http://www.corsairfly.com Corsair International], Edelweiss Air, [http://www.emirates.com Emirates], Eurowings, Evelop Airlines, Saudia, TUI Airways, Turkish Airlines and Vistara serve Mauritius from their home bases. {{listing | type=go | name=Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport | alt={{IATA|MRU}} | url=http://aml.mru.aero/ | email= | address= | lat=-20.430028 | long=57.683022 | directions=at Plaisance in the southeast of the island | phone=+230 603 6000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport | image=Mauritius 23.08.2009 11-29-57.jpg | wikidata=Q36460 | content=It is the major gateway for international travellers. }} The arrivals hall can get congested in the morning when most of the flights from Europe arrive. Immigration officers tend to be quite slow and the whole immigration process can be a frustrating experience. ===By sea=== Vessels that arrive at the port are mainly cargo ships. The ''Mauritius Pride'' and the ''[http://www.mauritiusshipping.net/ Trochetia]'' are the Mauritian vessels that usually sail to and from [[Reunion|Réunion]] Island, [[Rodrigues]] Island and [[Madagascar]]. Costa Cruises ships have started an Indian Ocean cruise including a visit to Mauritius. In 2008, one-way passage prices from Tamatave in Madagascar to Mauritius by boat were €275 first class or €255 second class. The journey takes at least four days, more if transiting through Réunion. A boat leaves every other Wednesday. If you are going directly to the port in Tamatave you can negotiate with a boat captain for a non-cabin berth. Visiting the Nautical Club in Tamatave to enquire about yachts that might be heading to Mauritius rarely yields positive results. ==Get around== ===By plane=== *[http://www.airmauritius.com Air Mauritius] operates daily flights connecting Plaisance Airport and Rodrigues (flight time - 1 hour 15 minutes). ===By boat=== * {{listing | name=Coraline | alt= | url=http://www.mauritiusshipping.intnet.mu {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=sureka.toolooa@coraline.intnet.mu | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 208 5900 | tollfree= | fax=+230 210 5176 | hours= | price= |lastedit=2024-01-24| content=Sails once a week to Rodrigues Island and to Réunion island from Port Louis Harbour. Mauritius Pride, launched in 1991, and Mauritius Trochetia, in service since 2001, are the two ships operating on the Réunion route, and also have Madagascar as a destination. Both vessels are used as passenger and container ships. }} === By train === [[File:Mauritius Metro Express Map.svg|thumb|Metro Express route map]] The modern [https://mauritiusmetroexpress.mu/ Metro Express] light rail links [[Port Louis]] and [[Curepipe]], stopping at [[Rose Hill]], [[Quatre Bornes]] and [[Vacoas-Phoenix]] along the way. Trains run every 10 minutes from 6 AM to 7 PM, taking around 40 minutes from end to end (Rs 50). ===By bus=== Several fairly good bus services ply the island. Taking the bus is the most economical way of travelling. As of 2023 one way fare costs MUR 44. Air-conditioned buses have been introduced on some routes. The major bus companies are: * {{listing | name=National Transport Corporation | alt=NTC | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 426 2938 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=United Bus Service | alt=UBS | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 212 2026 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Mauritius Bus Transport | alt=MTB | url= | email= | address=Long mountain | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 245 2539 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Triolet Bus Service | alt=TBS | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 261 6725 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Others | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Other smaller companies have amusing names such as Apollo and Turbo. In late 2014 local buses were available in the parking area of SSR airport. They are cheap and follow more interesting routes than the luxury ones, but are slower. }} Buses are manned by a driver and a conductor who walks around collecting fares and issuing tickets after passengers have boarded. Most conductors are helpful in providing directions to tourists. In the local Creole dialect, the conductors are called ''con-tro-lair'' (literally controller). Bus routes and schedules are available from the [http://nta.govmu.org/English/Procedures/Pages/Hidden/Bus-Timetable.aspx Ministry of Land Transport] and [http://www.mauritius-buses.com/ Mauritius Buses] who list all the main operators and their schedules. Keep in mind that the bus driver may skip some stops or change itinerary if the number of customers is too low. Try to pay with exact change. Intentional over-charging of tourists is not common. ===By taxi=== Taxis are the best way to tour the island. Various tours are available as from Rs2,500: The holy lake, Chamarel 7 coloured earth, Le Morne, dolphin tours in Tamarin and Ile aux cerfs are among the most appreciated by visitors. Taxis in Mauritius do not use meters. Negotiate the price of your trip before you enter a taxi; otherwise, you may be overcharged. ===By car=== [[File:Mauritius 23.08.2009 09-19-10.jpg|thumb|Maconde curved road in Baie du Cap]] One major highway runs north to south, otherwise a good network of paved, if sometimes narrow, roads cover the island. Traffic drives on the left and priority is for vehicles coming from the right. Numerous car hire firms include major international and local car rental agencies. There are various cars and vehicles for every budget. Some of the most popular rental cars categories are, compact (small Japanese cars), SUV, Sedan, 4x4 and luxury models. Car rental prices in Mauritius average around €25/day. Some unlicensed car owners can offer lower prices, but you should be wary because this is not safe and often comes with numerous additional costs. To be on the safe side, with full insurance, visitors should rent cars from companies holding a tourism enterprise license. These cars are identifiable by their yellow number plates, while private cars have black plates. If you hire a car at the airport keep in mind that you will need to pay a MUR 30 charge when you are leaving the car park, and this has to be paid in cash. Regulations: drivers are required to be over 18 years old. Most [https://crystal-carrental.com/ car rental companies in Mauritius] require 2 years of driving experience or drivers above 21 years. Speed limits are 110 km/h (68 mph) on the motorway and 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas. Seat belts are compulsory. Foreign licences are accepted but should be readable in English or French. If your driving license is in another language, a certified translation (like an International Driving Permit) may be required to rent and drive on the island. Approximate travel times from Port Louis to other major cities, towns, and resorts in Mauritius: *Curepipe 30 min *Grand Baie, North 25 min *Mahebourg, Southeast 55 min *Flic-en-Flac, West 30 min ==See== {{movetocity}} ===Northern tourist zone=== [[File:Grand Baie, view from the offshore.JPG|thumb|[[Grand Bay]] from offshore]] [[Grand Bay]] was the first area of the island to fully experience the tourist boom. A shopping and leisure paradise, Grand Bay is also where Mauritians go when they want a fun-filled night out (restaurants, bars and discos). La Cuvette beach is well worth a visit as well as the wonderful Pereybere public beach is popular because of its shopping facilities, restaurants and pubs. The SSR botanical garden, [[Pamplemousses]], is the oldest botanical garden in the Southern Hemisphere. It was founded by Pierre Poivre (1719 – 1786) in 1770, contains some flora unique to Mauritius and covers an area of around 37 ha. It also has several animals, being especially famous for its fish, deer and tortoises, as well as an old replica of a sugar mill. ===East=== The eastern part of the island is known for its long sand bank beaches and famous hotels such as "The Coco Beach Hotel" and the 5-star "Le Touessrok". [[File:Sur l'ile aux cerfs.JPG|thumb|Île aux Cerfs]] [[Centre de Flacq]] is one of the most important villages in Mauritius. This meeting point for inhabitants of the East boasts the country’s largest open air market. This extremely colourful market attracts a large number of people. Ile aux Cerfs is a paradise for water sports and has one of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius. You cannot afford to miss this tiny island, delicately poised on the ocean, a real pearl in the Mauritian landscape. Price conscious visitors would be well advised to take ample food and drink, as the only bar and restaurant on the island primarily targets well-heeled tourists. Boats depart regularly from [[Trou d'Eau Douce]] village in the East (which has some of the best seafood restaurants on the island). There is a variety of vessels that serve the route including catamarans, yachts and "pirate-ships". Some serve food (usually barbecue, especially seafood) on board included in the price and tend to take a detour to the Grand River South East waterfalls for a visit. The island also has a 5-star hotel (Le Touessrok) and a golf course. ===Southeast=== [[Mahebourg]] is one of the main fishing villages on the island. Built on the magnificent Grand Port Bay, it was founded in 1804 by the French Governor Charles Decaën. The Monday markets are among the biggest and best on the island and are held right next to the main bus station. Just of the coast, as a result of the remarkable work accomplished by the Mauritius Wildlife Fund, '''Ile aux Aigrettes''' has become an international standard for the protection of natural resources and endangered species. A few of the world’s rarest birds, including the kestrel, can be seen there. You can also see the extremely rare Pink Pigeon, the Green Gecko Phelsuma and the Aldabra giant tortoise. Also nearby at Vieux Grand Port, the oldest settlement in Mauritius, you can see the ruins of the first Dutch fortifications. [[Souillac]], a small seaside resort along the rugged coast of the Savanne district. A notable feature is the garden overlooking the sea and named after Dr Charles Telfair. A popular viewpoint at the southern end of the village, right on the cliff top: Gris Gris. [[Blue Bay]], bluest water and most amazing white sand beaches you will ever see. Take the trip across the island from Port Louis and see what this quiet place has to offer. Very busy with the locals on weekends. Try to go during the week. Glass bottom boats are an excellent outing. Part of Blue Bay has been designated a Marine Park, and the snorkelling trips by boat to this area, offered for sale on the main public beach, are well worth trying. ===West=== The west coast has some of the best and longest white sandy beaches on the island. These include Trou aux Biches, winner of the World's Best Beach in the 2011 World Travel Awards; and Le Morne Beach which is shared by a number of 5-star resorts including Paradis Hotel & Golf Club (2012 World Travel Award winner 'Mauritius Leading Golf Resort'), the all-suite Dinarobin Golf & Spa, and Lux Le Morne. There is also a dedicated public beach between Dinarobin and Lux Le Morne. (All beaches in Mauritius are public.) [[File:Sunset at Flic en Flac Beach in Mauritius (53696897952).jpg|thumb|Flic en Flac beach]] [[Flic en Flac]], a local fishing village that has expanded to become a popular destination for tourists and expats. Flic en Flac has a very long white sandy beach stretching down the west coast to Tamarin which is enjoyed by locals and tourists. While the beach is great, there are many sea urchins in the very shallow water, wear shoes. Scuba Diving is the main attraction with excellent diving just a few minutes from the beach. There is a reasonable supermarket and a variety of accommodations and restaurants to suit all budgets. At [[Tamarin (Mauritius)|Tamarin]]'s beach of white sands and crystal clear waters both novice and expert surfers visit for some of the best waves on the island. The bay also has its own dolphin pod and dramatic views across to the Montage du Rempart, an extinct volcano. Owing to the exceptional high level of sunshine the district receives, Tamarin is the heart of salt production in Mauritius. Just south in La Preneuse are the Martello Towers, a milestone in the island’s history symbolising the end of slavery and the beginning of Indian immigration. A winding road leads from Case Noyale village to the '''Seven Coloured Earths''' of [[Chamarel]], an undulating landscape of different and contrasting shades of colours. The different shades of blue, green, red and yellow are apparently the result of the erosion of the volcanic ash. The neighbouring waterfalls of Chamarel rise from the moors and the native plant life. The site possesses a rare beauty. An adventure park has also been opened at Chamarel. [[File:Aerial view of the southwesternmost point of Mauritius (53696881722).jpg|thumb|Le Morne peninsula]] * {{see | name=Casela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-20.30836 | long=57.42350 | directions= | phone=+230 452-2828 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2016-07-27| content=Situated in the Rivière Noire district, the Casela Nature & Leisure Park stretches over 25 ha. It contains more than 140 bird species from five continents and is home to many other animals including giant tortoises, zebras, a tiger and ostriches. Activities include walking with lions, Rando Fun (ziplines & hanging bridges), quad, buggy & Segway and a petting farm. |wikidata=Q107100671}} * {{see | name=Yemen | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= -20.333908 | long=57.417597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Yemen Reserve may not be the largest game reserve on the island, but there is still lots to see. You will be able to get close to the herds of deer, and admire some splendid species of Mauritian fauna. A few rustic kiosks available in the reserve provide an unobstructed view of the sea. There you can sip a local punch while watching the sun going down. }} [[Le Morne Brabant|Le Morne]] is a peninsula and an eponymous mountain in the southwest of Mauritius. Inscribed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]]. ===The interior=== * {{see | name=Eureka | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 326-4775 | tollfree= | fax=+230 326-9732 | hours= | price= |lastedit=2024-10-10| content= Is an old Creole residence built in 1830, Eureka is an essential place to visit during your stay in Mauritius if you wish to immerse yourself in tropical sweetness. Includes a tour of the colonial house with the opportunity to purchase overpriced textile products, and a tour of the gardens and a visit to the waterfalls below. |wikidata=Q124453811}} * {{see | name=Ganga Talao - Grand Bassin | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-20.418056 | long=57.491944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ganga Talao | image=GangaTalaoLake.jpg | wikidata=Q2338515 | content=Beyond La Marie and '''Mare-aux-Vacoas''' is found one of the two natural lakes of Mauritius. It rests within the crater of an extinct volcano. Ganga Talao is an important pilgrimage site and many Mauritians of the Hindu faith walk there during the Maha Shivaratri festival or the night fasting dedicated to Shiva. Gigantic eels live in the lake and are fed by the pilgrims. A walk to the top of the mount beside the lake is recommended for beautiful views over the area known as "Plaine Champagne". }} ==Do== [[File:Le Pouce, Mauritius.jpg|thumb|right|Climbing Le Pouce]] *'''Views''' &mdash; For a spectacular 360⁰ view of Port Louis and the north, climb Le Pouce or ‘the thumb', at 812 m (2,664&nbsp;ft). It is an easy 2-hour climb from the village of Petit Verger (near St. Pierre), and takes another 2 hour to walk into Port Louis ([http://www.wikiloc.com/wikiloc/view.do?id=371324 map]). The top of Signal Mountain also offers a spectacular view of Port Louis and the North. It is much easier to climb Signal Mountain from Labourdonnais Street as there is a tarred jogging track and it takes around 45 minutes to walk to the top. Starting from Saint Louis is also possible. *'''Tour the Moka mountains''' &mdash; by quad bike, horse or 4-wheel drive at the accessible 1,500-hectare (3,700-acre) nature park of Domaine Les Pailles. Travel to the sugar mill and rum distillery by train or horse-drawn carriage before dining in one of four restaurants. *'''Deep sea fishing''' &mdash; Mauritius is ideally positioned for game-fishing. Depending on the time of year it is possible to catch blue or black marlin, sailfish, wahoo, yellow fin tuna, giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, bonito, dolphinfish, sharks and many more. The majority of the big game fishing boats are well equipped with VHF radio, mobile telephone, GPS navigation system, radar, radio telephone, safety equipment, Penn International reels, life jackets, medical kits, fire extinguishers, flares, and all related fishing equipment such as fighting chairs and rods (usually 9). You can choose between half day and full day fishing trips . Big game fishing is best on the west coast of Mauritius because the currents swirl around the foot of Le Morne, creating a marine environment attractive to bait fish, which in turn attracts the larger fish. Boats usually accommodate up to 5 anglers and full day trips typically include breakfast and lunch in the price. *Head to '''Grand Baie''' &mdash; For watersports such as parasailing, an underwater walk, submarine and semi-submersible scooters, or to La Cuvette, a long beach with clear water between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux, for sailing, windsurfing and waterskiing. *'''Safari jeep trips''' &mdash; The Safari Jeep trip takes place in Yemen natural reserve park on the West Coast of Mauritius. It hosts two of the longest rivers on the island – Rivière Rempart and Tamarin River – and is a haven for all sorts of native and exotic wildlife. The actual size of this natural reserve is of around 4,500 hectares. The Yemen Park is the setting for Safari trips where you will have a thrilling ride and will be able to see many beautiful animals such as Zebras, ostriches, African antelopes, Java deer, monkeys, ducks and geese, and will see extraordinary panoramic views of this breathtaking part of the island. *'''Safari quad biking trips''' &mdash; Experience an adventurous Quad biking activity in the most amazing natural setting quad-biking activity in the 4,500 ha of Yemen natural reserve park. More than a quad bike outing as it includes a safari. During the trip it is possible to see deer, zebras, ostriches, African antelopes and wild boars. *'''Swim''' &mdash; At the northern beaches such as Trou aux Biches, shaded by casuarinas, Mont Choisy, a 2-km (1.2 mi) narrow white stretch of sand curving north from there, and Péreybère, a little cove between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux. [[File:View from the bottom of the boat Grand Baie.JPG|thumb|right|Glass bottomed boat in Grand Bay]] *'''Diving''' &mdash; When you dive in Mauritius you can explore coral reefs, multi-coloured marine life, ship wrecks dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, or some ships sunk more recently which create beautiful artificial reefs. There are numerous dive sites strewn all around the island, as well as some near the offshore island of [[Rodrigues]]. One of the well-known and popular dive sites in Mauritius is the cathedral, which is located off the Flic en Flac on the western coast of Mauritius. Other dive sites in Mauritius include the Whale Rock and Roche Zozo that is an underwater rock pinnacle, and the submerged crater near Ile Ronde. Mauritius is almost completely encircled by a barrier coral reef which is home to many sponges, sea anemones and a variety of brightly coloured fish such as Damselfish, Trumpet fish, Boxfish and clown fish, as well as the orange Mauritian scorpionfish. Most of the dive sites are located on the west coast around Flic-en-Flac or in the north, at Trou aux Biches or at the Northern Islands. The best time to go diving is from November to April with very good visibility underwater. *[[Snorkeling and freediving in Mauritius|'''Snorkeling & freediving''' in Mauritius]] offers some easy to access coral reefs in shallow water with a variety of fish. *'''Speedboat''' &mdash; Rides are available from Trou d'eau Douce to the popular island playground of Ile aux Cerfs for beaches, golf and watersports. Or, for a quieter day, a catamaran to the Northern Islands - Gabriel Island, Flat Island and Gunner's Quoin. *[[Hiking and trekking in Mauritius|'''Hiking and trekking''' in Mauritius]] with breathtaking views of mountains, rivers, and forests. Enjoy a hiking trip through the fields, trekking on a zip line or on a bike, and discover this magnificent nature paradise Mauritius being a volcanic island has several breathtaking summits and valleys to explore on foot. You can visit the Black River Gorges National Park, a 6,794-ha (16,788-acre) forest, to see indigenous plants, birds and wildlife. Black River Peak trail goes to Mauritius' highest mountain, while the Maccabee Trail starts nearby and plunges into the gorge to Black River. A challenging path follows the Tamarind waterfalls. *'''Tandem skydiving''' &mdash; Experience a {{ft|10,000}} skydive in Mauritius. Enjoy a spectacular scenic flight and a tandem skydive. Tandem skydiving refers to a type of skydiving where a student skydiver is connected via a harness to a tandem instructor. The instructor guides the student through the whole jump from exit through freefall, piloting the canopy, and landing. The student needs only minimal instruction before making a tandem jump. *'''Horse racing''' &mdash; The Mauritius horse racing club commonly called the Champ de Mars was founded in 1812, making it the oldest horse-racing club in the Southern Hemisphere. Horse racing is the most popular sport in Mauritius, and attracts about 30,000 visitors on each race day. The horse racing season usually starts in April and ends in late November. There are an average of 9 and a maximum of 12 horses per race. On average some 60 horses participate on each racing day. It is highly recommended to go and experience the electric atmosphere of horse racing in Mauritius. For those interested it is also possible have a VIP treatment in one of the VIP suites while enjoying snacks and drinks and a clear view of the race from your private balcony *'''Parasailing''' &mdash; For those looking for a fun sea-air activity, you can try parasailing. You will be rewarded with a breathtaking bird's eye view of the beautiful lagoon and beaches. The parasailing begins with a short safety briefing. Then you will be taken by boat to the launch pod where you will take off and start the parasailing. No steering is necessary as the sail follows the course of the boat *'''Water ski''' &mdash; Water-skiing is one of the most popular water sports in Mauritius. You can enjoy water skiing along several of Mauritius’ coasts or in a few of the lakes. The best area for water skiing is considered to be the north area of the island, along the coasts, where the lagoon provides full protection from the big waves of the open sea and offers ideal water skiing conditions of very calm sea *'''Watch dolphins''' &mdash; Go on a speed boat trip and watch dolphins in the open sea. You can choose between 2-hr trip, half-day and full-day trips where you will get to watch with the bottlenose dolphin and the spinner dolphin, which have made of the West Coast of Mauritius a place for them to rest before going to the deep sea for their fishing. *'''Walk with lions & cheetahs''' &mdash; Experience a one-on-one encounter with lions and cheetahs. Viewing the lions from very close, see them playing and hopping on the rocks of the river banks and scaling the trees. The lions roam freely amongst the participants giving visitors a rare opportunity of being in close contact with them. *'''Blue safari submarine''' &mdash; See the wonderful underwater tropical fish without even getting your feet wet. Going underwater to 35 m depth on board of a real submarine. You will get to visit a shipwreck, explore the rich coral reefs, and observe and encounter various species of fish. The submarine is air-conditioned with transparent-glassed cabin so you will enjoy exceptionally clear panoramic views of the extraordinary underwater world. *'''Underwater submarine scooter adventure''' &mdash; Pilot your own underwater scooter, or as a couple, to 3-4 m depth. Comfortably seated one behind the other, you breath freely and naturally in a transparent and panoramic cupola which allow you to enjoy the view of the reef and marine life. In advance you will receive a briefing about the control of the underwater scooter, and will be equipped with a diving suit. *'''Sea kayaking''' &mdash; A great way to explore the fine greenery of the lagoons, or the open waters of the Indian Ocean. It is possible to find wide range of sea kayaking trips and packages from breezy, calmer routes, to a few days trip surrounding the island in the deep ocean waters. This is also possible to have a kayak trip to any of the small islets surrounding the main island such as Ile D'Ambre Island. *'''Rock climbing''' &mdash; Rock climbing on the South West coast of Mauritius. You will get to experience rock climbing in a beautiful setting Of the Belle Vue Cliffs, where the caves of "La Pointe aux Caves" are nestled and in close proximity from the famous lighthouse of Albion. This is a great outdoor sport where you will learn the basic techniques of knots, safe climbing and rock progression from Mauritius’ top professional guides. *'''Canyoning''' &mdash; For those seeking more of an adrenalin rush and thrill, canyoning is abseiling down the steep walls of the canyons using nature watercourses and canyoning gear. The canyoning is offered in few locations in Mauritius. The canyoning (known also as canyoneering) in Mauritius consists of travelling in canyons using a variety of techniques that may include walking, climbing, jumping, abseiling, and/or swimming. Most canyoning tours will do the tamarind falls (7 cascades). You'll start at the top of the 7 waterfalls; beginner tours will go down the first 2-3 waterfalls and then walk back up for about 20 minutes to get back to the start. [[File:Rodrigues EasternSlopesOfGrandeMontagne.jpg|thumb|Eastern slopes of Grande Montagne, Rodrigues]] *'''[[Rodrigues]] island''' &mdash; Tiny, rugged, volcanic it lies 550 km (340 mi) northeast of Mauritius and is known as the ‘anti-stress' island. The capital, Port Mathurin, is only seven streets wide, with a Creole population. Rodrigues offers walking, diving, kitesurfing and deep sea fishing. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mauritian rupee | currencyCode=Rs | date=July 2025 | USD=45 | EUR=53 | GBP=62 | ZAR=2.5 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mur-mauritian-rupee XE.com] }} The '''Mauritian rupee''' (French: ''roupie mauricienne'') is denoted by the symbol "'''Rs.'''" or "'''₨'''" with or without a full stop and placed before or after the amount (ISO international currency: '''MUR'''). Banknotes come in denominations of Rs 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000. Coins come in denominations of Rs 1, 5, 10 and 20. ===Shop=== Mauritius is not at all like Bali or Thailand. Don't expect the local merchants to be interested in prolonged bargaining. Many shops will not reduce prices, and even at the markets don't expect more than a 10-20% reduction. There are some bargains however as many large brand names clothing companies manufacture in Mauritius, and you can often find over-runs or slightly flawed items at a fraction of the European prices. It is also a good place to find unusual jewellery and handicrafts such as artificial flowers, model boats and wooden art. It is possible to reach the main shopping centres by public transport, or to take a full day shopping tour which includes a driver to take you to the main centres and handicraft workshops. The Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis offers a variety of shops (including designer shops) and is an ideal place for shopping by tourists. For traditional crafts, a good place is Port Louis Central Market (Bazaar Port Louis). ==Eat== Don't hesitate to go to the various restaurants around the island. Although many of them advertise a specific ethnic cuisine, like everywhere around the world they have their own mix of traditional and local. You might discover that 'fried rice' can have more than one flavor. [[File:Bengali Rasgulla.jpg|thumb|Bengali rasagulas are very popular in Mauritius.]] Gastronomes will find a variety of flavors and aromas inherited from the different migrations through its history. Culinary traditions from France, India, China and Eastern Africa have been passed on through generations. Depending on the region, rice or a variety of flat bread called chapattis or roti, called farata (paratha) by the local people, is eaten with curries. The extensive use of spices like saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves and herbs such as thyme, basil, and curry leaves are the common ingredients that provide some powerful, yet subtle, flavor. Dal, a variety of lentil soup, are many and varied according to the type of lentil used; vegetables, beans, and pickles accompany the dishes. Dholl puri, originally an Indian delicacy, has become the fish and chips for Mauritians. Biryani from Mughal origins is a dish prepared by the Muslim community, where meat is mixed with spiced rice and potatoes. You can buy many snacks on the street including the famous gateaux piments (a variant of the Indian vadai; literally, chilly cakes), and vegetable or meat samosas (puffs), along with octopus curry in bread. The tomato and onion based dish called Rougaille (pronounced ''rooh-guy'') is a variation of the French ragoût. The dish usually consists of meat or seafood (corned beef and salted snoek fish rougaille are very popular with the locals). Mauritians eat this dish often if not daily. Mauritians have a sweet tooth and make many types of 'gateaux', as they are called. You can find a variety of cakes, including some that are very much like those in France and others similar to Indian sweets like gulab jamun and rasgulla. When leaving Mauritius, don't wait until you go through passport control if you want to have a snack. The coffee shop after passport control is expensive. You would be better off visiting the snack bar before check-in and taking your purchases with you. Remember that you can only take limited amounts of liquids through passport control. ==Drink== [[File:Phoenix Bier Mauritius 2019-09-28.jpg|thumb|160x160px|A bottle of Phoenix beer]] Mauritius produces a wide range of cane rum. It is very cheap and is a nice drink when mixed with cola and ice. A popular drink is coconut water with a dash of lime and a splash of local rum over ice. The local beer, Phoenix, costs around Rs30 for a pint. Usually served very cold. The local Black Eagle beer, brewed in Nouvelle France is also good. A local beer called Flying Dodo also offers beer with tropical fruits mix. The '''Medine Estate Refinery''' shop at Bambous (4 km from Flic en Flac), on the west of the Island, has a wide variety of locally produced rums and liquors. ==Sleep== There are many international brand hotels in Mauritius but there are some luxurious hotels which are owned by Mauritian companies. An increasing trend is for tourists to choose self-catered bungalows and apartments, many of them located directly on the beach. Foreigners can buy villas, many of them in compounds located on the beach, through the IRS or RES Scheme. ==Learn== Mauritius offers several study options for international students. The country has a growing education sector with a range of institutions offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. ===Higher education=== * '''University of Mauritius''', located in Réduit, offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in various fields including arts, science, engineering, and law. International students can obtain a postgraduate degree for approximately US$1500 per year of study, that can sometimes be completed online as well. * '''University of Technology Mauritius''', located in Pointe-aux-Sables, offers degrees in engineering, applied sciences, and management. * '''Open University of Mauritius''', located in Réduit, offers distance learning courses in a range of subjects including business, education, and science. * '''Middlesex University Mauritius''', located in Cascavelle, offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in business, law, media, and psychology. ===Language schools=== Mauritius also offers several language schools for those looking to improve their language skills. Some popular options include: * '''Alliance Française de Maurice''', located in Port Louis, offers French language courses for all levels. * '''Confucius Institute at University of Mauritius''', located in Réduit, offers Chinese language courses for all levels. * '''Mauritius Institute of Education''', located in Réduit, offers courses in English language teaching for non-native speakers. ===Study visa=== International students may require a study visa to study in Mauritius. The visa application process can be completed online through the Passport and Immigration Office website. It is important to check the visa requirements and eligibility criteria before applying. ==Stay safe== [[File:Le Morne, Mauritius.JPG|thumb|Le Morne]] The crime rate has fallen, and Mauritius is a much safer country for visitors than most other destinations. The Tourism Police and Coast Guards patrol regularly in areas frequented by tourists, and most cities, beaches and other major attractions are under camera surveillance. Nevertheless, you should look out for suspicious behavior. ===Telephone numbers=== * {{listing | name=Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=999, 112 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= | wikidata=Q208022}} * {{listing | name=Tourism Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 213 1740,+230 210 3894 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Coast guards | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 280 8317,+230 212 2747 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q130456319|lastedit=2024-10-10| content= }} * {{listing | name=Port Police | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Anti Drug Unit (ADSU) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 208 1212 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Traffic Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 211 8434,+230 211 8478 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Environment Police | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 210 5151, +230 210 5252 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Fire | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=115, 995 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=SAMU Ambulance | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=114 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=National Directory | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=150 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Airport of Mauritius | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 603 6000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q36460|lastedit=2024-10-10| content= }} * {{listing | name=Air Mauritius | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+230 207 7575 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |wikidata=Q407556|lastedit=2024-10-10| content= }} ==Stay healthy== Mauritius is a risk area for infection with [[dengue fever]], also known as "breakbone fever" from the muscular convulsions it causes. No vaccine is available. Dengue re-emerged in 2019 after several dengue-free years, so be sure to take precautious against mosquito bites. Since 2005 during the high season a certain type of mosquito called the Aedes albopictus causes the viral illness Chikungunya and the insect is more likely to be around in the daytime. It is important to use anti-mosquito protection at all times. Mosquitoes are more prevalent in rural areas but they can also inhabit the beach in the tourist zone and may lead to swollen joints and/or rashes. Symptoms last from one week up to several months depending how seriously you are affected. Some people recover quickly but it can take several months to recover completely. In 1991 86% of the population had antibodies indicating that they had been exposed to the hepatitis A virus, following an epidemic of the disease in 1989. Hepatitis A vaccination is generally recommended for travel in East Africa (and most other places) by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Depending on the time of the year, many of the beaches are infested with sea urchins, and it is not uncommon to see broken glass on the beach or in the water. It is a very good idea to either buy or bring plastic/wet shoes when venturing into the water. This is generally not a problem at the big hotels as the designated swimming areas on the beaches are regularly cleaned of urchins and debris. Use wet shoes nonetheless. Reef fish in Mauritius have been found to contain a neurotoxin similar, but not identical, to that found in Caribbean reef fish. It is important not to eat peanuts or drink alcohol if you eat coral or reef fish like sea bass, snapper, mullet, and grouper. The fish eat the toxic algae that grows on the coral reefs. Don't eat intestines or testes of the fish as higher concentrations of the toxin collect here. The symptoms include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting and diarrhoea and sometimes loss of feeling in the limbs. The '''[[tap water]]''' is generally considered potable and most Mauritians drink it, but for visitors who aren't used to it, bottled water is recommended. At nearby island [[Réunion]] you can get treatment with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). ==Connect== Mauritius has a few telecommunications companies, the main ones being Emtel and My.t. They both sell sim card and E-sim at the airport from 700 MUR per month. Passport is required.{{isPartOf|East African Islands}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|-20.2|57.5|zoom=10}} hzsa684ez6opw7jw58yt0mnfuonv496 0 22133 5091303 5085842 2025-07-11T10:22:19Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ I can't realistically see many people exchanging JPY to MXN 5091303 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Teotihuacan Wikivoyage banner.jpg|pgname=Mexico|caption=Teotihuacan}} {{other uses}} '''Mexico''' ([[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]: ''México'') is known for its [[Mexican cuisine|cuisine]], art, archaeology, history, pyramids, music, museums, haciendas, 9,600 km (6,000 mi) of shoreline, superb architecture, weather from snow-capped mountains in the Sierras to rainy jungles in the southeast and desert in the northwest, many golf courses and excellent fishing. Along with [[Chile]], [[Colombia]], and [[Peru]], this once-poor nation is one of the ''Pacific Pumas'', seeing significant economic growth and improved infrastructure during the 21st century. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Mexico regions map.png | regionmaptext=Mexico's regions | regionmapsize=401px | region1name=[[Baja California]] | region1color=#65b99f | region1items=[[Baja California (state)|Baja California]], [[Baja California Sur]] | region1description=The vast western peninsula, stretching 1,200 km from Tijuana on the US border to Cabo in the south. A land of deserts and undiscovered beaches. One of the biggest whale migrations takes place here every year from December to April. Also includes the far-off-shore [[Guadalupe Island]]. | region2name=[[Northern Mexico]] | region2color=#b9ad60 | region2items=[[Chihuahua (state)|Chihuahua]], [[Coahuila]], [[Durango (state)|Durango]], [[Nuevo León]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Sonora]], [[Tamaulipas]] | region2description=The expansive deserts and mountains of the border states; mostly ignored by tourists. Culturally and physically a world away from the tropical south. Includes the bustling industrial city of Monterrey, Mexico's 3rd largest and most affluent, and Copper Canyon, the country's only railroad passing through gorges and indigenous villages. | region3name=[[Bajío|The Bajío]] | region3color=#a463ad | region3items=[[Aguascalientes (state)|Aguascalientes]], [[Guanajuato (state)|Guanajuato]], [[Zacatecas (state)|Zacatecas]], [[San Luis Potosi (state)|San Luis Potosí]], [[Querétaro (state)|Querétaro]] | region3description=The former colonial heartland, this is one of Mexico's most historic regions filled with well-preserved colonial towns that grew rich from silver mining. Includes [[San Miguel de Allende]] and [[Guanajuato]] amongst other lesser known towns. | region4name=[[Central Mexico]] | region4color=#a95858 | region4items=[[Hidalgo]], [[Mexico City]], [[Mexico State]], [[Morelos]], [[Puebla (state)|Puebla]], [[Tlaxcala (state)|Tlaxcala]], [[Veracruz (state)|Veracruz]] | region4description=Mexico City, always the political, cultural and economic center of the country with a sophisticated urban core and a huge urban sprawl surrounding it. Also includes the awesome ruins of Teotihuacan, the historic city of Puebla and Veracruz, one of the country's most overlooked regions. | region5name=[[Pacific Coast (Mexico)|Pacific Coast]] | region5color=#73abab | region5items=[[Colima (state)|Colima]], [[Guerrero]], [[Jalisco]], [[Michoacan]], [[Nayarit]], [[Oaxaca (state)|Oaxaca]] | region5description=Tropical beaches on Mexico's southern coast; Jalisco the birthplace of mariachi and Tequila; Guadalajara, the nation's second largest city; and the Oaxacan highlands, famous for their distinct cuisine. | region6name=[[Yucatán and the South]] | region6color=#67a864 | region6items=[[Campeche (state)|Campeche]], [[Chiapas]], [[Quintana Roo]], [[Tabasco]], [[Yucatán]] | region6description=Jungle and impressive Mayan archaeological sites, along with the Caribbean and Gulf coast with well-known resorts like Tulum and Cancun. The colonial city of Merida and the jungle ruins of Palenque. Geographically isolated from the rest of the country, part of Central America (the dividing line being the Isthmus of Tehuantepec), it is culturally closer to Guatemala and Belize than the rest of Mexico, where Mayan culture is very much alive. }} ==Cities== {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#65b99f|title=[[Baja California]]|wikidata=Q58731,Q46508}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b9ad60|title=[[Northern Mexico]]|wikidata=Q655,Q53079,Q79918,Q15282,Q80252,Q46422,Q80007}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a463ad|title=[[Bajío|The Bajío]]|wikidata=Q79952,Q46475,Q80269,Q78980,Q79754}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a95858|title=[[Central Mexico]]|wikidata=Q80903,Q1489,Q82112,Q66117,Q79923,Q82681,Q60130}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#73abab|title=[[Pacific Coast (Mexico)|Pacific Coast]]|wikidata=Q61309,Q60158,Q13160,Q79861,Q79920,Q34110}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#67a864|title=[[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]|wikidata=Q80908,Q60123,Q80245,Q80914,Q60176}} {{Mapframe|22.53|-102.55|zoom=4}} [[File:Plaza de la Constitucion Ciudad de Mexico City.jpg|thumbnail|Plaza de la Constitución, also known as Zocalo, Mexico City]] <includeonly>THIS LIST SHOULD ONLY INCLUDE 9 CITIES - DO NOT ADD OR REPLACE CITIES WITHOUT FIRST USING DISCUSSION</includeonly> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mexico City]]|wikidata=Q1489}} – Capital of the republic, one of the three largest cities in the world, and a sophisticated urban hub with a 700-year history. In Mexico City, you will find everything from parks, Aztec ruins, colonial architecture, museums, to nightlife and shopping. <!-- As of November 2021 there are travel warnings for Acapulco and the whole state. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Acapulco]]|wikidata=Q81398}} - A sophisticated urban beach setting known for its top-notch nightlife, elegant dining, and nightmarish traffic. Many of the older (pre-1990s) concrete structures have suffered tropical decay.--> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cancún]]|wikidata=Q8969}} – One of the world's most popular and famous beaches, known for its clear Caribbean waters, its lively party atmosphere, and its wealth of recreational facilities. During the U.S. college Spring Break (mid-Feb to the end of March) it is noted for drinking, sunburns, and debauchery. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Guadalajara]]|wikidata=Q9022}} – A traditional city, capital of [[Jalisco]] state, and the home of mariachi music and tequila. Guadalajara is blessed with perpetual spring weather and its colonial downtown is graceful and sophisticated. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mazatlan]]|wikidata=Q40194}} – Lively Pacific coast town, Mazatlan is a shipping port, a transportation hub with ferries to Baja California, and a beach resort destination with miles of sandy shore. It is a popular U.S. college Spring Break destination due to its variety of affordable lodging options. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Monterrey]]|wikidata=Q81033}} – A large modern city that is the commercial and industrial hub of Northern Mexico. Monterrey enjoys a dry, mountainous setting and is known for its high-quality educational and transportation infrastructure. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[San Luis Potosi]]|wikidata=Q204271}} – A colonial city in central Mexico that was once an important silver producer, but today, relies on manufacturing for its economic base. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taxco]]|wikidata=Q990095}} – In central Mexico west of Cuernavaca, this steep mountain town was once a major silver producer, and now has a strong place in the trade of decorative silver, from cheap fittings to the most elegant jewelry and elaborate castings. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tijuana]]|wikidata=Q124739}} – Mexico's busiest border crossing for pedestrians and private vehicles, and a long-time bargain Mecca for southern Californians due to its proximity to [[San Diego]]. ==Other destinations== [[File:Barranca del Cobre-El Divisadero17-10-2005CIMG3344.jpg|thumbnail|The moon is rising over Copper Canyon]] <!--This section is to include only destinations that are NOT cities/towns.--> * {{marker|name=[[Copper Canyon]]|wikidata=Q674485}} (Barrancas del Cobre) – An exotic destination for travelers looking for a unique remote adventure! An awesome mountain rail ride -- one of the greatest in the world -- takes you upwards over 2,440 m (8000 feet) on the CHEPE, the Chihuahua al Pacifico Railway. Hiking, horseback riding, birding, and Tarahumara Indians. Copper Canyon, the Sierra Madre and the Chihuahuan desert of Mexico. This area is designed for adventurous individuals who will tolerate some rough travel to get to their points of interest (although the famous train ride isn't demanding at all). Copper Canyon, a magnificent remote wilderness is not likely ever to become a mass market destination. * {{marker|name='''Sea of Cortez''' (Gulf of California)|wikidata=Q132811}} – See whale birthings, swim with dolphins, and sea kayak in the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez, along the eastern coast of Baja California, near La Paz. National Geographic says the sunsets at [[San Carlos (Mexico)|San Carlos]] are some of the most spectacular in the world. * {{marker|name=[[Monarch Butterfly Reserves]]|wikidata=Q852546}} – Protected natural areas in the highlands of the state of Michoacán. Millions of butterflies come to the area between November and March of each year, although numbers have declined sharply. This is a {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Chiapas|Sumidero Canyon]]|wikidata=Q60123}} – From docks on the Rio Grijalva (the only major river within Mexico) near [[Tuxtla Gutiérrez]] in Chiapas state, tour launches take you into this steep-walled [[Mexico national parks|National Park]]. You'll likely see vast flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterfowl, as well as crocodiles. * {{marker|name=[[Mexico national parks]]}} - Mexico has 67 national parks; these include protected natural areas and national monuments and historical sites ===Archaeological sites=== [[File:Palace at Palenque.jpg|thumbnail|Palenque]] * {{marker|name=[[Chichen Itza]]|wikidata=Q5859}} – Majestic Mayan city, declared a {{unesco}} in 1988 and was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. * {{marker|name=[[Ek Balam]]|wikidata=Q988570}} – A reconstructed Mayan site, famous for its unique decorated stucco and stone-carved temples that you can climb. * {{marker|name=[[El Tajín]]|wikidata=Q753895}} – In the state of Veracruz near the town of Papantla. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Monte Alban]]|wikidata=Q464899}} – In the state of Oaxaca, a Zapotec site dating from about 500 BC. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Palenque]]|wikidata=Q181427}} – Mayan city in the state of Chiapas, Palenque famous for its elaborate paintings. Also well known for having the largest tract of rainforest in Mexico located in the same area. * {{marker|name=[[Teotihuacan]]|wikidata=Q172613}} – An enormous pre-Columbian site with several large pyramids near Mexico City. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Tulum]]|wikidata=Q277408}} – Mayan coastal city with spectacular Caribbean vistas. Dates from late Mayan period. * {{marker|name=[[Uxmal]]|wikidata=Q213232}} – Impressive Mayan city-state in the Puuc Region, declared a {{unesco}} in 1996. ===Small towns=== The Mexican government has designated more than 100 scenic small towns as '''[[Pueblos Mágicos]]'''. States can apply to have towns added to the carefully curated list, but they must provide sites of genuine tourist value (historical or cultural) and guarantee adequate levels of tourism infrastructure. All Pueblos Magicos are within a few hours drive of a major city that has good airline connections. Some of the Pueblos Magicos (such as [[Tequila]]) are well-known and quite popular. Most are off the beaten path and offer rich opportunities for quiet exploration. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMexico.png}} Mexico, the '''United Mexican States''' (Spanish: ''Estados Unidos Mexicanos''), is one of the most visited countries in the world. Much of the tourist industry is centered around the beach resorts as well as the ''altiplano'' in the central part of the country. Visiting the northern interior allows visitors to get off the beaten path a bit. U.S. American tourists tend to predominate on the [[Baja California]] peninsula and the more modernized beach resorts ([[Cancún]], [[Puerto Vallarta]]), while European tourists congregate around the smaller resort areas in the south like [[Playa del Carmen]] and colonial towns [[San Cristobal de las Casas]]. Canadians often favor smaller beach resorts like [[Huatulco]] or [[Ixtapa]]. ===Climate=== Mexico uses the [[Metric and Imperial equivalents|metric system]] for all measurements. All weather forecasts are in Celsius (°C). ==== Central and southern Mexico==== April is already the hottest month, especially at the coast and on the Yucatán peninsula. Towns which aren't that hot in April and during the summer are [[Mexico City]], [[Toluca]]/[[Metepec]], [[San Cristobal de las Casas]], [[Pachuca]] and [[Zacatecas]]. Hurricanes can be common in the coastal cities specially those near the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. ====Northern Mexico ==== It gets rather cold during the winter except on the coast. There is sometimes snow in certain places like the Sierra Madre of Chihuahua, Durango, Coahuila, Nuevo León and northern Tamaulipas. Northern Mexico gets very hot during the summer with sudden violent storms in the afternoon, with heavy rain and hail. The temperatures during the day can exceed 39°C (100°F). Less hot during the summer is Tijuana. ===Landscape=== [[File:Citlalepetl2.JPG|thumbnail|Pico de Orizaba or Citlaltépetl is Mexico's highest mountain]] High, rugged mountains; low coastal plains; high plateaus; temperate plains with grasslands and Mezquite trees in the northeast, desert and even more rugged mountains in the northwest, tropical rainforests in the south and southeast [[Chiapas]], [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]] semiarid in places like [[Aguascalientes]], [[San Luis Potosí]] and temperate coniferous and deciduous forests in the central part of the country [[Mexico City]], [[Toluca]]. === Holidays === Actual non-working days may shift to the Monday before the holiday, so check an up-to-date calendar. Government offices are closed nationwide on official holidays and on election days. {| class="wikitable" !Date !Name !Things to know !Official? |- |January 1 |New Year's Day (''Año Nuevo'') | |official |- |January 6 |Epiphany (''Día de los Reyes Magos'') |Celebrating arrival of the Three Wise Men to see and bring gifts to the baby Jesus |not official |- |February 2 |Candlemas (''Día de la Candelaria'') |Catholic holiday related to Christmas |not official |- |First Monday of February |Constitution Day |For the events of 1917 |official |- |February 24 |Flag Day (''Día de la Bandera'') | |not official |- |Monday on or before March 21 |Birth of Benito Juárez |Mexico's first president of indigenous origin. |official |- |March or April |Easter (''Pascua'') |Easter is widely observed nationwide, according to the yearly Catholic calendar (the first Sunday after the first full moon in Spring). | |- |April 30 |Children's Day (''Día del Niño'') | | |- |May 1 |Labor Day (''Día del Trabajo'' ) | |official |- |May 5 |Cinco de Mayo |For the Battle of Puebla against the French army in 1862. Visitors from the U.S. may be surprised to learn that it is not a major holiday in Mexico, and is not much celebrated by locals, except in the [[Puebla (state)|state of Puebla]]. |not official |- |May 10 |Mother's Day |A particularly important family-centric holiday. Some cities hold parades. Offices may be closed, restaurants will be packed full, and mariachi bands will race from one family to the next. If you are visiting someone's home, bring flowers for the mothers and grandmothers. | |- |May 15 |Teacher's Day (''Día del Maestro'') |A day to appreciate schoolteachers. Some schools close and others have special activities. |not official |- |September 1 |Presidential Address Day | | |- |September 15 |Cry of Dolores (''Grito de Dolores'') |A patriotic holiday to celebrate the first event of the Mexican War of Independence in 1810, especially in the city of [[Dolores Hidalgo]] |not official |- |September 16 |Independence Day |Celebrates the start of the 11-year-long fight for the independence from Spain that began in 1810 |official |- |October 12 |Day of the Race (''Día de la Raza'') |Related to Columbus' arrival in the Americas in 1492 |not official |- |November 2 |[[Day of the Dead]](''Día de Muertos'') |The Mexican answer to Halloween celebrates family and friends who have died. Expect sugar candy shaped like skulls and ''pan de muerto'' (a somewhat sweet type of white bread). |not official |- |Third Monday of November |Mexican Revolution Day |For the events of 1910. |official |- |December 12 |Virgin Mary of Guadalupe Day |A Catholic religious holiday, and one of the most important Mexican holidays |not official |- |December 24 |Christmas Eve (''Nochebuena'') |Normally a full non-working day. Usually a family-centered evening. May be preceded by nine days of parties in the evenings, called ''Las Posadas'' ("the inns")''.'' |not official |- |December 25 |Christmas (''Navidad'') | |official |- |December 31 |New Year's Eve |Normally a full non-working day. Expect firecrackers and lots of noise at midnight. |not official |} ===Time=== [[File:Mexico time zones map en.svg|300px|thumbnail|Mexican time zones]] The 24-hour clock system has traditionally been used for time keeping. Today, both the 24-hour clock and the 12-hour clock are commonly used (roughtly equally), though the younger generation seems more inclined to express times using the 12-hour clock. Mexico uses these four time zones: * '''Northwest Zone''' (UTC−8, corresponds to U.S. Pacific Time): [[Baja California (state)]] * '''Pacific Zone''' (UTC−7, corresponds to U.S. Mountain Time): [[Baja California Sur]], [[Chihuahua (state)]], [[Nayarit]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Sonora]] * '''Central Zone''' (UTC−6, corresponds to U.S. Central Time): The rest of the country, except [[Quintana Roo]] * '''Southeastern Zone''' (UTC−5, corresponds to U.S. Eastern Time): [[Quintana Roo]] Most of Mexico is on standard time year round. Daylight savings time is observed only in a few places. Communities on the U.S. border, except in Sonora, observe DST on the U.S. schedule. The state of Baja California also observes DST on the U.S. schedule (but Baja California Sur does not). ===History=== ====Pre-Columbian==== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica}} Among the earliest complex civilizations in Mexico was the '''Olmec''' culture that flourished on the Gulf Coast in 1500 BCE. Olmec culture diffused through Mexico into formative era cultures in Chiapas, Oaxaca and the Valley of Mexico. In Central Mexico the height of the classical period saw the ascendancy of Teotihuacan, which formed a military and commercial empire. It had the largest structures of pyramids built in the pre-Columbian Americas. During the early post-classic Mexico was dominated by '''Toltec culture''', and the lowland '''Maya''' had important areas at Calakmul and Chichen Itza. At the end of the post-Classical period, the '''Aztecs''' built a tributary empire covering most of Central Mexico. The Mesoamerican cultural traditions ended in the 16th century and over the next centuries, Mexican indigenous cultures were under Spanish colonial rule. However, contrary to popular misconceptions neither the Maya nor the Aztec culture ever entirely "disappeared" and to this day many Mexicans trace at least part of their heritage to indigenous roots and language such as Nahuatl and numerous Maya tongues are still spoken by hundreds of thousands or even millions of Mexicans. Indigenous elements are visible even today in loanwords in Mexican Spanish, traditional dress, Mexican cuisine, architecture and even religious observances (nominally "catholic" to varying degrees). The eagle and the snake on a cactus depicted on the Mexican flag, for example, refers to an Aztec legend about the founding of Tenochtitlan, the city that now is Mexico City. ====Colonial and early independence==== {{main|Colonial Mexico}} Mexico remained under Spanish colonial rule until 1821 when it declared independence under the terms of "Plan of Iguala". After the short lived Mexican empire of 1821-1823 (former Spanish general and independence hero Augustin de Iturbide briefly declared himself emperor but was overthrown after two years) Mexico became a republic with a fragile balance of powers between liberals (allied mostly with urban merchants) and conservatives (allied with the church and big landholders) and Antonio López de Santa Anna became president several times while also being overthrown by his opponents several times thus having eight non-consecutive terms as president as well as five "permanent" exiles. ====Independent Mexico==== {{main|Mexican War of Independence}} The early Mexican state was anything but stable. Texas (under the leadership of US-American immigrants who wanted to make Texas a slave-holding state of the US) and Yucatán seceded at several points. Maya rebels fought against both the Yucatán independence movement and the federal government in the so-called "Caste war". After Texas gained ''de facto'' independence a disagreement as to its southern border (the Nueces river as claimed by Mexico or the Rio Grande as claimed by Texas) led to the involvement of the US in a brief war that ended in a devastating defeat for Mexico (the line about the "halls of Montezuma" in the marines' song refers to the presidential palace in Mexico city that was conquered by the US) and the loss of Alta California (now the US state of California), Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico as well as the definite loss of Texas north of the Rio Grande. The ceded territories were rapidly colonized by immigrants from Europe and the eastern United States; see [[Old West]]. ====French intervention and Second Mexican empire==== {{main|Post-Independence Mexico}} In 1861, when president Benito Juarez suspended the payment of Mexico's debt, France decided to invade the country in order to regain some or all of its money. This was only possible because the United States, which had declared in its Monroe Doctrine that it wouldn't tolerate any European intervention in the sovereign states of the Americas, started its [[American Civil War|Civil War]] that same year. After overthrowing the government (though Mexican resistance against the occupiers never ceased) the French installed a Habsburg prince as emperor Maximilian I to act as their puppet. While the Mexican monarchy had some support among conservatives its days were numbered when the French troops were withdrawn after the end of the American Civil war, and in 1867, Maximilian was executed by firing squad. Cinco de Mayo, which in the US is often mistaken to be "Mexican independence day", is celebrated in remembrance of the battle of [[Puebla]] that occurred during the French occupation and was decisively won by Mexican republican forces. ====Benito Juárez==== [[File:Estatua de Benito Juárez.jpg|thumb|Statue of Benito Juárez in [[Hidalgo]]]] Benito Juárez was the first president of indigenous descent in all of Latin America and is one very few figures that is still almost exclusively seen as a positive figure in Mexican history. He was president from 1858 to 1864 and again from 1867 to his death in 1872. His saying "el respeto al derecho ajeno es la paz" (respect for the rights of others is peace) is still frequently quoted. ====Porfirio Díaz==== Porfirio Díaz, a general during the French intervention rose to power shortly after the death of Juárez and ruled Mexico from 1876 to 1911. While initially willing and able to reform and modernize the country, the sheer length of his reign and his corruption led to a lot of unhappiness about his government and in 1911 the Mexican revolution broke out to unseat him from power, but it soon devolved into factional fighting between various claimants for power and attempts at radical social and economic reform. ====The Mexican Revolution==== {{main|Mexican Revolution}} The Mexican Revolution was a complex civil war and period of political intrigue and treachery. The Revolution started in 1910 with resistance against a blatantly fraudulent election manipulated by Porfirio Díaz. The Revolution really ignited into full-scale war when the elected president (Madero) was assassinated by Díaz loyalists. Several factions had different complaints about Díaz and his corrupt, never-ending dictatorship. Groups loyal to Venustiano Carranza wanted constitutional reforms. Groups loyal to Emiliano Zapata wanted land reforms and rights for the indigenous. Other groups demanded an end to resource giveaways to foreign industrial interests, while others demanded an end to excessive power of the Catholic church. The groups eventually coalesced behind the Constitutionalists and stable government was restored by 1920. ====Under the PRI==== {{main|Modern Mexico}} Once the dust of the revolution had settled the Revolutionary Institutional Party (PRI [pronounced /pree/] for its Spanish name) became the dominant political force and all presidents before the early 1990s were members of the PRI. They did not establish a one party state and other parties were still legal and participated in elections. However, the success of the PRI candidate (especially at the federal level) was almost always a given. As such, political power struggles mostly took place within the PRI, with more conservative or left wing factions gaining the upper hand from time to time. In 1988, during a presidential election that was actually close for the first time in decades, a computer that counted the votes supposedly crashed. The words with which this was announced "se cayó el sistema" are noted for their ambiguity as they can mean either "the computer broke down" or "the (political) system fell". Nonetheless, according to the official result (which was and still is doubted by many), the PRI candidate won a six-year term in office just narrowly surpassing the 50% threshold needed to avoid a runoff election. In 2000 the PRI finally lost its first presidential election when Vicente Fox of the conservative National Action Party (PAN) won a narrow victory in a three-way race. In 2006 the PAN won again with Felipe Calderon being elected president but in 2012 the PRI returned to power with Enrique Peña Nieto, who promised to end the drug war being elected to the presidency. Whether this proves temporary or the PRI has indeed regained its once dominant status, remains yet to be seen. ====Mexico today==== {{main|Modern Mexico}} Despite problems such as corruption and the drug war in the North (with some areas under ''de facto'' control of different cartels), Mexico has grown steadily, and there have been democratic multiparty elections with peaceful transition of power. A fairly stable three party system has emerged: the PAN (conservative) and PRI (centrist, catch all, sometimes leftist) have each won the presidency several times and the PRD (left of the PRI) has been a serious contender in almost all elections. The drug war is ongoing and some parts of the country are not entirely safe, but the situation has bettered a lot after the 2000s. Generally the North with cities such as Ciudad Juarez notorious for their violence is more dangerous than the south and Yucatán is among the safest regions in Latin America. For more on the effects of the drug war see the stay safe section of this article and the individual region articles. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) assumed power on December 1, 2018, after waging a populist, anti-corruption campaign and winning the 2018 election with more than a 30% margin over his next closest opponent. He is the leader of the center-left National Regeneration Movement (MORENA). Having had a reputation as a leftist firebrand in the past, AMLO has moderated his politics in order to appeal to a wider share of the electorate, though he remains a solidly left-leaning, populist politician. Under his leadership, Mexico has served as a moderator in wider Latin American politics, for example, in the Venezuelan and Bolivian crises, while also navigating relations with the United States government over trade and migrant issues. In 2024, Mexico elected Claudia Sheinbaum as its first female and first Jewish president to succeed AMLO. ===Visitor information === *[https://visitmexico.com/eng/home-2 Visit Mexico] website ==Get in== {{cautionbox| Mexico charges M$390 (2016) per person that has spent more than 7 days (inclusive) in the country, e.g., 1st to 7th is 7 days. Payable on exit whatever the mode of transportation. On entrance, officials may say that 7 days is non-inclusive but you will find out otherwise when you exit the country. If you flew into Mexico on a commercial flight, the cost of your plane ticket already included the tourism tax and you absolutely do ''not'' need to pay it again upon exiting. You will need to prove to the border officials that you have already paid, by showing the following: #Your FMM card you received upon arrival, and #An itemized receipt from your flight purchase showing the Tourism Tax Certain foreign nationals who can enter Mexico with only a passport and FMM Card, and stay up to 180 days as tourists (30 days for business travelers) are no longer granted the full 180 days by default as is it was in the past. Always check your passport stamp and FMM card upon arrival to determine how many days are granted before walking away from the immigration counter. Ask the immigration officer if you cannot read the handwriting to be sure how many days you are granted to stay in the country. NEVER assume that you are granted the full 180 days or they will automatically tell you if you are given less than 180 days. You can arbitrarily be granted any number of days from 3 to the full 180 days depending on the whim of the immigration officer who can also check for an onward ticket out of Mexico, hotel reservations, proof of funds, etc. Travelers have reported to have been detained for over-staying the less than 180 day time allotted to them when they entered and it is uncertain how long the travelers are/will be detained (at any length of time) before deportation out of Mexico. The immigration authorities and military do set up random checkpoints in the interior to stop passing traffic and check the travelers' ID cards (Mexican nationals) and the visa status of foreign nationals.}} ===Visa and other entrance requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Mexico.png|thumb|450px|Visa policy of Mexico]] [[File:Mexico entry.png|thumb|Mexican entry stamp]] According to the [http://www.sre.gob.mx/english/ Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Secretaria de Relaciones Exteriores)]{{Dead link|date=October 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, certain foreign nationals who intend to stay in Mexico fewer than 180 days for the purpose of tourism or 30 days for business can fill out a tourist card at the border or upon landing at an airport after presenting a valid passport, for US$22. If arriving via air, it is included in the price of the fare. This service is available to citizens of [[Andorra]], [[Argentina]], [[Aruba]], [[Australia]], [[Austria]], [[Bahamas]], [[Barbados]], [[Belgium]], [[Belize]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[Colombia]], [[Costa Rica]], [[Cyprus]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Denmark]], [[Estonia]], [[Finland]], [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Great Britain]], [[Greece]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Hungary]], [[Ireland]], [[Iceland]], [[Israel]], [[Italy]], [[Jamaica]], [[Japan]], [[Latvia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Lithuania]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Macau]], [[Malaysia]], [[Malta]], [[Marshall Islands]], [[Micronesia]], [[Monaco]], [[Netherlands]], [[New Zealand]], [[Norway]], [[Palau]], [[Panama]], [[Paraguay]], [[Peru]], [[Poland]], [[Portugal]], [[Puerto Rico]], [[Romania]], [[San Marino]], [[Singapore]], [[Slovakia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Spain]], [[South Korea]], [[Sweden]], [[Switzerland]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[United States of America|United States]] and [[Uruguay]] (see official list [https://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/Paises_No_Visa/en.html here]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}). Permanent residents of the United States, Canada, Japan, United Kingdom, and Schengen area countries are also eligible for visas on arrival regardless of citizenship. The Mexican tourist card is a ''Forma Migratoria Múltiple'' (Multiple Immigration Form), or FMM. It has a perforation that divides the card into two parts, of which the right side asks for some of the same information requested on the left side. At entry, after reviewing your passport and filled-out FMM, the immigration officer will stamp your passport and the FMM, separate the FMM along the perforation and give the right side of the FMM back to you with your passport. The paper tourist card is being phased out. At many ports of entry (including [[Benito Juárez International Airport|Mexico City's international airport]]), you will not have to complete a paper form. Rather, the immigration officer will stamp your passport. A digital version of the tourist card (FMMd, ''Forma Migratoria Múltiple Digital'') will be generated for you, which can be downloaded from [https://www.inm.gob.mx/spublic/portal/inmex.html the website]. If you have a paper FMM, keep it with your passport at all times. It is your responsibility to make sure the right side of the FMM is returned to the Mexican government at time of departure so that the bar code can be scanned, thus showing that you left the country on time. For example, if you are flying with Aeromexico, they will ask for your passport and FMM at check-in for your flight home, then staple your FMM to your boarding pass. You are expected to then hand the boarding pass together with your FMM to the gate agent as you board your flight. If you lose your FMM during your visit to Mexico, you may be subject to substantial delays and fines before you can leave the country. [https://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/Inicio_Autorizacion_Electronica/en.html Electronic Authorization System (SAE, Autorización Electrónica)]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for travelling to Mexico is available on the Internet for nationals from [[Russia]], [[Turkey]], and [[Ukraine]]. Russians, Ukrainians, and Turkish citizens with permanent residency or a valid visa to Canada, the US, Japan, the UK, or any Schengen country don't need an SAE. Other nationalities must contact a Mexican consulate in order to find out the requirements for citizens of their country, and may have to apply for and obtain a visa in advance of travel. If you are in need of other information, Mexico has diplomatic offices in the following cities around the world. The consulates in the USA are typically open for business to non-citizens (by telephone or in-person) only from 08:30 to 12:30. If you cross the border via road, do not expect the authorities to automatically signal you to fill out your paperwork. You will have to locate the border office yourself. The immigration officer at your point of entry into Mexico can request that you demonstrate that you have sufficient economic solvency. The immigration officer can demand a round trip ticket. Be advised if you only booked a one-way ticket to Mexico: The airline may want to see a ticket that carries you out of Mexico, especially when flying from an equally or less developed country than Mexico – also if your passport is from a highly industrialized nation. It could be that the airline wants to see that onward ticket as "early" as at the gate, where you may not have enough time to buy one. So have at least an onward ticket from specialized websites for around US$10 (Nov 2021) ready when heading to the airport for your flight for Mexico. If you do not intend to travel past the "border zone" and your stay does not exceed three days, U.S. and Canadian nationals require only a proof of citizenship. Reentry into the United States generally requires a passport, but a U.S. or Canadian Enhanced Drivers License (or Enhanced Photo ID) or U.S. passport card is acceptable for reentry by land or sea. ===By plane=== [[File:Fila Aeroméxico.JPG|thumbnail|Aeromexico planes at Benito Juarez International Airport]] ====From the United States and Canada==== There are hundreds of daily flights linking Mexico to cities large and small throughout North America. This includes legacy carriers such as Air Canada, Aeromexico, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta, and discount airlines such as JetBlue, Spirit, WestJet, and Southwest Airlines. Also to be considered are the Mexican discount carriers '''Volaris''', which operate from several major US cities through their hubs in [[Mexico City]] and [[Guadalajara]], and '''Viva Aerobus''', which also operates from several major US cities through hubs in [[Mexico City]] and [[Monterrey]]. '''United Airlines'''/'''United Express''' fly to many smaller market Mexican cities and resort areas, including Aguascaliente, Chihuahua, Ciudad de Carmen, Durango, Huatulco, Leon/Guanajuato, Oaxaca, Merida, San Luis Potosi, Torreon, Tampico, Veracruz and Villahermosa. As in the United States and Canada, you will have to clear immigration ''and'' customs at your first Mexican port of entry, even though that airport may not be your final destination. (For example, many trips on Aeromexico will involve connecting through its Mexico City hub.) You will then have to re-check your bags and go through security again to proceed to your next flight segment. ====From Australia or New Zealand==== Fly from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne or Auckland (NZ) direct to Los Angeles on American Airlines, Delta, Qantas, and United. Air New Zealand offers one-stop air service from Australia and non-stop air service from Auckland to Los Angeles. Hawaiian Airlines and Air Tahiti Nui offer one- or two-stop air service to Los Angeles from Australia and New Zealand. Many airlines continue from [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles]] to Mexico including AeroMexico/Aeromexico Connect, Alaska Airlines, Volaris, United and Virgin America, some of which have interline or alliance ticketing and baggage check through. More options are available if connecting through another US city. Also, make sure to have a good look at visas beforehand – even just for transit you will need something for the US, and if you get a visa waiver, they treat Mexico as part of the US, meaning if you stay longer than 90 days in Mexico, you will need to travel further south before returning to the US. ====From Europe==== Most commercial airlines link Mexico directly from Europe. There are direct flights to [[Benito Juarez International Airport|Mexico City]] ({{IATA|MEX}}) and [[Cancun#By plane|Cancun]] ({{IATA|CUN}}) from Paris ({{IATA|CDG}}), [[London#By plane|London]] ({{IATA|LON}}), Madrid ({{IATA|MAD}}), [[Schiphol Airport|Amsterdam]] ({{IATA|AMS}}), and [[Frankfurt airport|Frankfurt]] ({{IATA|FRA}}). Some carriers will serve both Mexico City and Cancun while others will only serve one and not the other (usually only to Cancun such as those from Russia and Italy). Additional flights to Cancun from Europe may only be available as charters and some may operate during the winter months (December–February) only. It is always worth to compare flight offers from air carriers and charter companies who can bring you to Mexico City or Cancun via many European hubs. The flight duration from those cities is always approximately 11 hours. ===By train=== From the United States to Mexico the nearest '''[http://www.amtrak.com Amtrak]''' stations are in [[San Diego#By train|San Diego]], [[Yuma#By train|Yuma]], [[Del Rio#By rail|Del Rio]] and [[El Paso#By train|El Paso]]. The frequent ''[http://www.pacificsurfliner.com Pacific Surfliner]'' connects San Diego from [[San Luis Obispo]] via [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]]; while the ''[http://www.amtrak.com/sunset-limited-train Sunset Limited]'' and ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/texas-eagle-train.html Texas Eagle]'' pass by Yuma, El Paso and Del Rio between [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Antonio]]. In San Antonio the ''Texas Eagle'' continues northwards towards [[Chicago]] while the ''Sunset Limited'' continues east to [[New Orleans#By train|New Orleans]]. Amtrak trains do not cross the border into Mexico so passengers continue to the border by local public transportation or by taxi from the Amtrak station. The '''Tren Maya''' has a station along the [[Belize]] border in the city of [[Chetumal]]. Buses are available there for onward travel to [[Mérida (Mexico)|Merida]], [[Cancún]] or other destinations in the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]. The Tren Maya also has two stops near the [[Guatemala]] border (at El Triunfo and at Boca del Cerro), but neither have scheduled transportation to any Guatemalan destinations. ===By car=== [[File:SanYsidroBorderCrossingByPhilKonstantin.jpg|thumbnail|Crossing into Mexico from the U.S. near Tijuana]] American automobile insurance is not accepted in Mexico; however, it is easy to obtain short-term or long-term tourist policies that include the mandatory liability coverage, theft and accident coverage for your vehicle, and often, legal assistance coverage. Should you decide to drive to Mexico, the [http://www.sct.gob.mx/ Transport and Communications Secretariat website] has free downloadable road maps. Foreign-plated vehicles must obtain necessary permits before being allowed into the interior of Mexico. This can be done at the border checkpoints by showing your vehicle title or registration, as well as immigration documents and a valid credit card. It is now possible to apply for your vehicle import permit online. Vehicle permits will only be issued to the registered owner of the vehicle, so the papers will have to be in the name of the applicant. The Baja California peninsula and the northern part of the State of Sonora do not require a permit. Driving a '''rental car''' from the United States into Mexico is possible with some of the large multinational companies, but the process is rather cumbersome. You will need to inform your car rental company in advance and purchase additional Mexican insurance (since U.S. car insurance does not cover Mexico), and you cannot drive beyond the border region into the interior of Mexico. You also cannot drop off a U.S. rental car in Mexico, and must return to the U.S. to drop it off. In the reverse direction, Mexican rental cars are usually not permitted to be driven into the U.S. Due to the contraband crossing the US-Mexico border (drugs and illegal immigration into the US, drug money and weapons into Mexico), expect long delays and thorough searches of vehicles when crossing the border. At some of the busiest crossings, expect a waiting time of 1–3 hours. ===By bus=== ''See main article, [[Bus travel in Mexico]]''. Buses are the most widely used transportation system in Mexico with routes going to all parts of the country. Long-distance buses are very comfortable and affordable. All border crossings have bus stations where buses can take you to interior cities, often to large bus terminals providing connections to virtually any major city or tourist destination. From the southern United States, many companies provide trans-border service with modern, comfortable buses that cross the border. You can take a bus from [[Chicago]] all the way to [[Mexico City]], though some companies will only take you to the border region where you can connect to a domestic Mexican bus company for onward travel to the interior of Mexico. A list of these companies is in [[Bus travel in Mexico]]. Buses are also available from Central America into Mexico. These buses usually go to [[Tapachula]], where you can connect to domestic Mexican bus companies for onward travel to the interior. Buses from [[Belize City]] will take you to [[Chetumal]] where you can connect to a Mexican bus or to the Tren Maya for onward rail journeys. ===By boat=== * Border crossing from [[Guatemala]]. * Cruise ships from the United States. ==Get around== Travelling in Mexico is most practical by bus, car, or air. Passenger transport by train is possible in some areas. most extensively in the Yucatán Peninsula, with its modern ''Tren Maya'' service. The '''Chihuahua del Pacifico''' railroad is one of the most scenic railroads in the world, passing through the Copper Canyon, and departing from Los Mochis on the Pacific coast, or Creel in the east. They cross each other roughly midways at '''Divisadero and Barrancas''' Copper Canyon stations at an altitude of 2100&nbsp;m (7000&nbsp;ft). ===By car=== {{main|Driving in Mexico}} [[File:Highway120PinalAmoles.JPG|thumbnail|Highway 120 passing through the village of Pinal de Amoles]] Due to a government scheme in the early 1990s to create infrastructure, the best roads are toll roads. Toll roads can be relatively costly but are much faster and better maintained. First-class buses generally travel by toll roads (and the toll is included in the ticket price). US vehicle insurance is not valid in Mexico. Mexican auto insurance has been required since 2018; if you have even a minor accident without insurance, you could land in jail. [http://www.mexipass.com/ MexiPass] and AAA offer Mexican auto insurance. When traveling on Mexican roads, especially near the borders with the United States and Guatemala, one will probably encounter several checkpoints operated by the Mexican Army searching for illegal weapons and drugs. If you are coming from the United States, you may not be used to this, and it can be intimidating. However, these are rarely a problem for honest people. Simply do what the soldiers tell you to do, and treat them with respect. The best way to show respect when entering a checkpoint is to turn your music down, lift sunglasses from your face, and be prepared to roll your window down. They should treat you with respect as well, and they usually do. If you are asked to unpack any part of your vehicle, do so without complaint. It is their right to make you completely unload in order for them to inspect your cargo. Tourists are often warned about travelling on roads at night. Although ''bandidos'' are rare in more metropolitan areas, err on the side of caution in more rural areas. The best bet is to drive during only daylight hours. Cattle, dogs, and other animals also can appear on the roadway unexpectedly, so if you do have to drive at night, be very cautious. If possible, follow a bus or truck that seems to be driving safely. Foreign drivers' licenses are recognized and recommended. Speeding tickets are common, and to ensure your presence at the hearing, the officer may choose to keep your license. He is within his rights to do so. Beware though, police officers are known to keep driver's licenses until they are given a bribe. At petrol (gas) stations, make sure the pump is zeroed out before the attendant begins pumping your gas so that you don't end up paying more than you should. Good maps are invaluable and the Mexico maps included in "North American Road Atlas" books are worse than useless. The Guia Roji maps are particularly good. If you arrive in Mexico by airplane but would like to drive around the country, all major car rental companies are present in Mexico. However, you must know that they operate under a franchise scheme, and therefore their policies and the overall way to do business are very different than those in other countries. Most of the times they will publish prices that may look very attractive, but may not include insurance, taxes and other mandatory fees, the best thing to do is call in advance to find out the final price to pay. There are some local companies which do include all bells and whistles in their rates, [https://www.veico.com/ Veico Car Rental]. [https://www.citycarrental.com/ City Car Rental] offers good prices and have rental offices as most major cities in Mexico. Throughout the mainland of North America including the Mexico, traffic moves on the right with most cars being left-hand-drive (as in Belize, Guatemala, and the United States of America). The only areas of North America that do not drive on the right are on some Caribbean Islands. ===By plane=== Major airlines hubs for all or several of the airlines are in [[Benito Juarez International Airport|Mexico City-Benito Juarez Airport]], Mexico City-Santa Lucia Airport (NLU), [[Guadalajara#By plane|Guadalajara]], [[Cancún International Airport]], and [[Monterrey#By plane|Monterrey]]. There are additional point to point services from several other cities. Budget airlines offer competitive fares that rival bus travel over long distances. The low-cost airlines are VivaAerobus and Volaris. The main airlines providing service to over 60 cities within Mexico are: * {{listing | type=listing | name=Aeromexico/Aeromexico Connect | alt= | url=http://www.aeromexico.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 5133-4000 (MX) | tollfree=+1-800-237-6639 (US) | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=It is the 'national' and 'legacy' carrier with hubs in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. It is also a member of the SkyTeam Alliance. }} * {{listing | name=Magnicharters | alt= | url=http://www.magnicharters.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 5678-1000, +52 55 5678-3600 (DF), +52 81 2282-9620, +52 2282-9621 (MTY) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-21 | content=Headquartered in Mexico City, their major hubs are in Monterrey and Mexico City. Primary destinations are resort areas preferred by leisure travelers, such as Cancun or Puerto Vallarta. They also offer flights from Las Vegas and Orlando in the U.S. and from Cancun to Havana, Cuba. }} * {{listing | name=Mexicana | alt= | url=https://www.mexicana.gob.mx/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-11-04 | content=In 2023, the Mexican government resurrected the formerly bankrupt carrier and will operate it as a state airline. Mexicana will initially focus on domestic routes only, serving all major cities and resort areas in Mexico. The airline operates on a hub and spoke model with all flights originating or ending at Mexico City - Aeropuerto Internacional Felipe Angeles (AIFA) ({{IATA|NLU}}) in the northern suburb of Santa Lucia. Additional routes will be added via a second hub at Tulum International Airport ({{IATA|TQO}}) in early 2024. }} * {{listing | name=VivaAerobus | alt= | url=http://www.vivaaerobus.com/mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Low-cost, Ryanair-like airline with hubs in Cancun, Monterrey, Mexico City and Guadalajara and new focus cities in Merida and Puebla, and service from the USA. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Volaris | alt= | url=https://www.volaris.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 1102-8000 | tollfree=+1 855 865-2747 (US) | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Hubs are in Mexico City, Tijuana and Guadalajara with focus cities in Cancun, Monterrey and Leon. They also have an additional hub in San Jose Costa Rica and a focus city in Los Angeles, outside of Mexico. They have services to cities in the U.S., Costa Rica, El Salvador and Nicaragua. }} There are also small airlines operating within certain areas such as: * {{listing | name=Aerus | alt= | url=https://flyaerus.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 811 495 5340 (only WhatsApp) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-07-12 | content=Regional airline based in [[Monterrey]] serving Northern Mexico and the Gulf Coast, including destinations in Tamaulipas, Veracruz, and Tabasco. }} * {{listing | name=Calafia Airlines | alt= | url=https://www.calafiaairlines.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 619 489-1439 (US) | tollfree=01 800 5603949 (MX) | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Operates scheduled flights between cities in the Baja California Peninsula and from the Baja California Peninsula to Chihuahua, Jalisco, Sonora and Sinaloa states. It connects the Baja California Peninsula to Leon (Guanajuato), Monterrey (Nuevo Leon), Mexico City and San Luis Potosi, all in the smaller aircraft. It connects Palenque and Tuxtla Gutierrez (Chiapas) to Mexico City and Cancun. It also offers charters and air taxi services. }} * {{listing | name=Aerotucán | alt= | url=https://www.aerotucan.com.mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 952 502-0840 | tollfree=01800 640-4148 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Flies between Oaxaca City, Ciudad Ixtepec, Huatulco and Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca state in small planes. }} * {{listing | name=Señor Air | alt= | url=https://www.senorair.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-07-24 | content=Small regional carrier based out of [[Los Cabos]] ({{IATA|SJD}}) operating a limited route map with service to mainland destinations in Chihuahua, Sinaloa and Jalisco using Embraer aircraft. }} * {{listing | name=TAR | alt= | url=http://www.tarmexico.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 2629-5272 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Hub in Queretaro with focus cities in Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Puerto Vallarta to several destinations nationwide. Operates Embraer regional jets. }} On the Viva Aerobus fares "Zero" and "Light", you cannot check in earlier than 4 hours and 8 hours before departure respectively. As of Nov 2021, the website and app won't tell you that if you try it earlier. Instead giving you a random error message or telling you to check-in at the airport for additional cost, which is not needed. ===By bus=== ==== Intercity buses==== See main article, [[Bus travel in Mexico]] Long-distance buses are an ideal way to experience Mexico. The executive and first-class buses are very modern, clean, and comfortable with bigger seats and more legroom than the first-class cabin of a modern aircraft. Costs are generally low, with first-class tickets costing only slightly more than a much slower second-class bus. All major cities and tourist destinations have good bus service. ==== City buses ==== Most larger cities have a mix of public bus services and privately run bus services. For example, in [[Mexico City]] there are several bus services that are part of the public Metro transportation including large, modern articulated buses that run in dedicated lanes on major arteries, as well as electric buses and traditional buses through most neighborhood. In the city of [[Monterrey]], there are Metrobuses that operate as part of the city's public transit network, often connecting to the Metrorrey subway/light rail stations. There are also more than a dozen private bus companies, usually providing services to a well-defined section of the city. Using the city buses can be complicated, involving various transfers and sometimes multiple providers. Information about these may be in individual destination articles here, but is more reliable in the [https://moovitapp.com/ Moovit] app (available for iPhone or Android). ==== Colectivos, combis, peseros ==== Many cities in Mexico have privately operated van or small bus services that run along popular routes. These go by various names including ''peseros'', ''colectivos'', ''urbans'', or ''combis''. Whatever you call them, they are sometimes vans and sometimes small buses with varying color codes depending on the city you are in and often identifying the operator or route. Usually the route taken is written on cardboard attached to the windshield or with wet and then dried soap or chalk on the windshield listing the local colonias (neighborhoods) and points of interest (Allende, WalMart, Soriana, malls, hospitals, universities, etc.) the routes are not numbered and the schedules are often informal. When a combi gets full, it leaves and won't pick up passengers along the way until somebody gets off. In some cities the pesero stops at marked bus stops while in others bus stops are uncommon and you are expect to signal the bus to pick you up and drop you off wherever you want. If you don't find a stop button in a pesero; just shout the word "baja!" for it to stop. Fares are cheap and vary from M$5-15 (Feb 2022) approximately. ===By carpooling === You can check, if there are rides offered for your route on Blablacar. Especially between bigger cities the chances are good. In order to see the prices in pesos, you need to (re)install the app and choose Mexican pesos. Prices are about 30-50% less than taking an intercity bus. ===By train=== [[File:Tren maya en Mérida Teya 01.jpg|thumb|Tren Maya]] Intercity trains are slowly making a comeback in Mexico, after a 25-year hiatus. The vast majority of cities are not served but as of 2025 a few lines have opened and there are plans for major expansions over the coming years. * [https://www.trenmaya.gob.mx/ ''Tren Maya''] serves the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]] and the [[Riviera Maya]]. The route goes along the Caribbean coast between [[Cancun]] and [[Chetumal]] at the Belize border. It provides access to [[Merida]] and has stations at archaeological sites like [[Chichen Itza]], [[Edzna]], [[Tulum]], and [[Palenque]]. * [https://www.pasajerosinteroceanico.com.mx/ ''Tren Interoceánico''] runs across the Tehuantepec isthmus between [[Salina Cruz]] on the Pacific Ocean and [[Coatzalcocos]] on the Gulf of Mexico coast. Tren Interoceanico has a line that connects Coatzalcocos to [[Palenque]] where passengers can transfer to the Tren Maya. * ''El Insurgente'' is an intercity train in [[Mexico State]] connecting to the [[Mexico City]] Metro at the Observatorio station. ====Tourist trains==== [[File:Copper Canyon Railway.jpg|thumb|''El Chepe'' through the Copper Canyon]] The most famous tourist train in Mexico is the [https://chepe.mx/en/ ''Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico''] (Chihuahua-Pacific Railway or ''El Chepe'') between [[Los Mochis]], [[Sinaloa]], and the town of [[Creel]], [[Chihuahua]], through the gorgeous [[Copper Canyon]]. In the state of Jalisco there are a couple of lines which travel from the state capital city of [[Guadalajara]] to the nearby tequila distilleries in the small town of Amatitlan on the [https://www.tequilaexpress.mx/ ''Tequila Express''] and to the Jose Cuervo distilleries in the town of [[Tequila]] on the [http://www.josecuervoexpress.com ''Jose Cuervo Express'']. There is also a tourist train that runs from [[Tijuana]] to [[Tecate]] (and back again) on Saturdays. ===By taxi=== Ride-hailing is available in Mexico and the following are the most anticipated providers. There may be destinations where the service is not available due to differences with local cab groups. * {{listing | type=go | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/mexico-city | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content=Works in Mexico City and other cities. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Cabify | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content= }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Didi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content= }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content=Includes three cities. }} Many drivers in Mexico do not like payment by credit card. If you're having trouble hailing a ride, try switching to cash payment. ===By thumb=== One upside of the high petroleum prices is that hitching is beginning to be more common in Mexico again, particularly the rural areas. In areas near big cities, hitching should be more difficult, and is not really advisable for security reasons. However, in village areas, this will be really possible and most likely a nice experience. Since villagers have always had a hard time affording gas, and nowadays many are turning to picking up paying hitchhikers as a way to afford the next trip into town. Baja California, the Sierra Tarahumara and Oaxaca and Chiapas all have good possibilities for the hitchhiker. [[Hitchhiking]] possibilities vary according to region. Mexican culture is often accepting of hitchhiking and it's a common practice among Mexican youngsters going to the beach in Easter vacations, though in some cases a money contribution is expected for gas because of its relatively high prices. You should make it clear that you have no money to offer before accepting the ride, if this is the case. If you're willing to pay, trucks will often provide lifts for about half the price of a bus ticket. Of course you may be able to negotiate a better deal. Hitchhiking is considered fairly safe and easy in the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]. ==Talk== {{see also|Spanish phrasebook}} '''Spanish''' is the ''de facto'' national language. Spanish is used by virtually the whole population and all public communications (signs, documents, media, etc.) are conducted in the language. Mexico has one of the richest diversity of more than 60 '''indigenous languages''' spoken with official recognition. These languages are spoken within the communities that are largely segregated from mainstream mestizo society. About 5% of Mexicans speak an indigenous language. Most of these communities are fluent in Spanish as well. Many Mexicans do not speak English, even though it is understood by many in Mexico City, tour guides, and workers in popular tourist attractions. Because of this, a good knowledge of Spanish is essential for the independent traveller. The most popular foreign languages to learn within Mexico after English are French, Italian, German and Japanese. German, French, and Russian may be known by some in the tourism industry, but among clerks, policemen, and drivers (most particularly the last) there is basically no such thing as knowledge of foreign languages. Bilingual signs in Spanish and English might be available in popular tourist destinations. ==See== [[File:Tochimilco portada.jpg|thumbnail|Popocatépetl's 16th century monasteries are World Heritage Sites]] Many travelers come to see Mexico's natural wonders, includingː * '''Copper Canyon''' - ride the train through an enormous canyon system in the northwestern mountains * '''Mesoamerican Barrier Reef''' - scuba dive the coral reefs in the warm waters of the Mexican Caribbean * '''Sea of Cortez''' - see migrating whales, sea lions, dolphins and more * '''Volcano Belt''' - climb Mexico's highest mountain peaks and see active, dormant, and inactive volcanoes There are 35 [[UNESCO World Heritage Site|UNESCO world heritage sites]] in Mexico as of 2018, more than anywhere else in the Americas. Most of them are in the cultural category and relate to either the pre-Columbian civilizations in the area or to early colonial cities established by the Spanish ''conquistadores'' and missionaries. Much of Mexico is mountainous with some mountains rising higher than 5,000 m over the sea level. Mexico is on the border of two bioregions; both [[North American wildlife]] and [[Central and South American wildlife]] can be seen in the country. A number of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are in Mexico as well as a number of RAMSAR wetlands. The Mexican Tourism Ministry (SECTUR) has a program called ''[[Pueblos Magicos]]'' to identify and develop tourist programs in smaller, lesser known destinations. Towns designated as Pueblos Magicos usually are rich in colonial heritage, maintain cultural traditions, or offer spectacular natural wonders. These towns are the kinds of places a couple would go for a romantic weekend because they often feature interesting historical sites in a quaint setting with local bed and breakfast inns, regional cuisine in the local restaurants, and good accessibility from major cities. == Do == [[Image:Mayan ruins at Tulum Mexico.jpg|thumb|300px|Mayan Ruins of Tulum]] The warm Mexican climate, spectacular nature and long coastline make the country great for [[outdoor life]], especially [[water sport]]. * '''Surfing''' – [[Baja California]], [[Vallarta]], [[Oaxaca (state)|Oaxaca]] * '''Sea kayaking''' – Baja California * '''Snorkeling''' – Baja California, Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, etc. * '''[[Diving in Mexico|Scuba diving]]''' – Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas etc., and cave diving in the cenotes of the Yucatán Peninsula. * '''Whale watching''' – Baja California, [[Guerrero Negro]], [[Mazunte]], [[Zipolite]] * '''White water rafting''' – Veracruz * '''Visit a volcano''' – Mexico, Toluca etc. * '''Take a ride on the Copper Canyon Railway''' * '''Enjoy the beautiful coast line and beaches of Oaxaca''' – [[Huatulco]], [[Mazunte]], [[Zipolite]], Puerto Angel, [[Puerto Escondido]], etc. * Go for a '''horseback ride''' in the Copper Canyon * '''Visit the archaeological sites''' like Chichen Itza, Tulum, Coba, Monte Alban, Calakmul, Palenque, etc. * '''Volunteering''' – Chiapas, Xalapa, Veracruz or many other destinations * '''Visit ecological parks''' – [[Mayan Riviera]], [[Chiapas]], [[Tamaulipas]] * '''Trekking and viewing cave paintings''' [[Baja California]] ===Sports=== '''[[Association football|Football]]''' (soccer) is Mexico's national sport, and its top men's league, the '''[http://www.ligamx.net/ Liga MX]''', is one of the best funded outside Europe. The big four teams in the Liga MX are '''[http://www.clubamerica.com.mx América]''', '''[http://www.chivasdecorazon.com.mx Chivas]''', '''[http://www.cruzazulfc.com Cruz Azul]''' and '''[http://www.pumas.mx/ Pumas]'''. The rivalry between [[Guadalajara]]'s Chivas and [[Mexico City]]'s América, known as ''El Súper Clásico'', ''El Clásico de Clásicos'' or just ''El Clásico'', is the biggest in Mexico, and fixtures between the two sides are guaranteed to draw partisan sell-out crowds. In [[Northern Mexico]], the biggest game of the year is the ''Clasico Regio'', pitting Monterrey's two top teams against each other. The Mexican national team is also a regional powerhouse, and matches against its northern neighbor, the [[United States of America|United States]], are particularly charged affairs. '''Baseball''' is the second biggest team sport in the country with two leagues, [https://www.milb.com/mexican/ Liga Mexicana de Beisbol] (LMB) and the [https://www.lmp.mx/ Liga Pacifica] (LMP)(sponsored by ARCO). The best players make it to Major League Baseball teams in the U.S., but that is not a universal goal in Mexico, where many players enjoy long careers (particularly in the Mexican League teams) and are relatively well paid. The Liga Mexicana began in 1925. It is organized as two divisions, North and South, with 18 teams playing a 114-game season, from April to September. Teams are located in many popular tourist destinations including [[Cancun]] (Tigres), [[Mexico City]] (Diablos Rojos), [[Guadalajara]] (Mariachis), [[Monterrey]] (Sultanes), and [[Tijuana]] (Toros). The LMP is a winter league with 10 teams, mostly in the states of [[Sinaloa]] and [[Sonora]], but with teams in [[Mexicali]] (Aguilas), [[Guadalajara]] (Charros), and [[Monterrey]] (Sultanes). Monterrey and Guadalajara are the two cities with teams in both leagues, so you can catch a game there at almost any time of the year. '''[[American Football]]''' has a long tradition in Mexico but has often been relegated to third fiddle by the more popular soccer and baseball. Estadio Azteca has seen a handful of NFL games (including, at a time, the best attended NFL game in league history up to that point) and besides a long-standing college league, there is now also a professional league with teams focused in and around Mexico City. '''[[Bullfighting]]''', also referred to as ''la fiesta brava'', is a popular (but declining) spectator sport with a long Hispanic tradition stretching back as far as 2,000 years. Tradition crashes headlong into the modern world when it comes to bullfighting, where animal rights activists fight a constantly escalating war against bullfighting. Proponents of bullfighting point not only to the colorful traditions, but to the fact that the "industry" supporting bullfighting creates 18,000 jobs nationwide. Activists say it's a barbaric, bloodthirsty tradition that has no place in a civilized world. The debate is ongoing and while Mexico City's first bullfight was held in 1526, many people would be happy if no 500th anniversary could take place. Mexico City's Plaza de Toros (Plaza Monumental) is the world's largest bullring and is regarded as being part of the "triple crown" of bullfighting, alongside Madrid and Sevilla. While animal rights activists succeeded in having bullfights blocked in Mexico City in 2022, the case was overturned on appeal and bullfights have resumed in the capital. Bullfights usually occur between November and March, but the season varies by location. In [[Tijuana]], bullfights occur between April and October. In some smaller towns, bullfights are held only in conjunction with large festivals. In any case, travellers who might want a genuine bullfight experience should make plans to visit Mexico soon because the tradition of bullfighting may not last forever. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mexican pesos | currencyCode=M$ | date=January 2025 | USD=21 | EUR=21 | GBP=26 | CAD=14 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mxn-mexican-peso XE.com] }} The currency of Mexico is the ''peso'', denoted in Mexico as "'''$'''" (ISO code '''MXN''') and in Wikivoyage as "'''M$'''". It is divided into 100 ''centavos''. Prices in US dollars (in tourist areas) are labeled "US$" or sport an ''S'' with a double stroke. Coins are issued in denominations of 5, 10 (steel), 20, and 50 centavos (brass; new 50-centavo coins issued from 2011 onwards are steel and smaller in size) and 1, 2, 5 (steel ring, brass center), 10, 20, 50, and 100 pesos (brass ring, steel or silver center), but it's extremely rare to find coins valued at more than 10 pesos. Banknotes are produced in denominations of 20 (blue or green and pink), 50 (pink-red or purple), 100 (red), 200 (green), 500 (brown or blue), and 1,000 (purple and pink for the latest issue, purple for older issues) pesos. The current issue of 20-, 50- and 100-peso bills are made from polymer plastic, and there are several different series of all banknotes. Ten-peso notes exist, but are very rare and no longer issued and accepted, but remain legal tender. ====Acceptance of other currency==== "Old" pesos (issued before 1993) are no longer accepted, but are usually collected by numismatists. Merchants may accept US dollars at a lower exchange rate. US dollars are sometimes accepted in border towns and in some tourist areas. Even when US dollars are accepted, pesos are preferred. Other currencies such as the euro, pound sterling, and Swiss franc are generally not accepted by merchants, and even banks headquartered in Europe may refuse to accept euros for exchange. On the other hand, most banks and exchange offices (''casas de cambio'') will accept them. If you arrive from the south and still carry Central American currency, try to exchange them as soon as possible, as outside of the immediate border area not even banks will accept them. As all Central American countries either have the US dollar as their national currency (El Salvador and Panama) or have it circulating to varying degrees as a ''de facto'' second currency and virtually all banks in Central America and most banks in Mexico accept US dollars (usually at better rates than any other currency) your best bet is to "triangulate" your money from local currency to dollars and from dollars to pesos rather than exchanging them directly, which can be difficult and expensive. Should you have forgotten to exchange your money and the banks are closed, street money changers (called ''coyotes'' or ''cambistas'') don't have fixed opening hours and often have better rates. Be careful however, as they do from time to time rip off foreign visitors with bogus calculators, wrong rates and counterfeit or outdated (and thus worthless) bills. ====Money exchange==== If you have brought cash in US dollars or euros, the best places to change your money are at an arrival airport (such as Mexico City and Cancun), where many money exchanges are located already in the arrival hall (where you can also compare some exchange rates and choose the most convenient) and, normally, at airports, the exchange rate is usually fair. Be sure to pass through Customs before looking for foreign exchange as inside the customs zone in Cancun the rate is far lower than the greediest street vendors ask. If you would like to wait until later to obtain Mexican currency, try not to change at your hotel, as the rates there tend to be extremely disadvantageous for tourists. However, some hotels provide exchanges as a courtesy, in this case it is best to ask just to make sure. Often, you can find money exchanges at strategic places in most tourist destinations and near the hotel (zones). The exchanges rates should not differ drastically from the ones at airport. If you are unfamiliar with Mexican money (bills, coins), try to stick to official foreign exchange booths. In several internationally popular beach destinations like Cancun and Los Cabos, local merchants are accustomed to US dollars and will often accept them as payment (they even have dual-currency cash registers and drawers). However, do bear in mind that the convenience of such “private” money exchange usually comes with a slightly unfavorable exchange rate. ===Shopping=== If there is no price tag, ''ask for the price first''. The simple question is "¿Cuánto cuesta?" and is easily understood by Mexicans. Some shops show the price in '''pesitos'''. That's the diminutive of peso and means the same. [[File:2013-12-27 Oaxaca Markt 03 anagoria.JPG|thumbnail|Spices for sale at a market in Oaxaca]] * Weights are measured in kilograms. Length is measured in centimeters and meters. * For clothes and shoe sizes, the "Continental" measurements are used. Merchants can be picky about the state of your paper money and may scrutinize it and reject anything with rips. Try to keep it in as pristine condition as possible. Reputedly, this is more the case the farther south you go. In any case, you can easily enter a bank with some damaged bill to get it exchanged into another one. Merchants are often reluctant to make change in smaller towns. Try to avoid paying with overly large denominations; the best customer has exact change. In rural areas, your 'change' may consist of chiclets or other small commodities. Merchants, specially those in small markets ("tianguis") and street vendors are no strangers to haggling. Try asking "¿Es lo menos?" ("Is this the smallest price?"), The more rural and less touristy the area you're likely to have more success. *'''[[Mexican Artesanias|Artesanias]]''' A visit to anywhere in Mexico will give one the opportunity to buy art made in the "old world" manner that reflects the diverse ethnicity of Mexico. Included in these articles would be textiles, wood carvings, paintings and carved masks that are used on sacred dances and burials. In many parts of Mexico, artists welcome visitors to their workshops to see how things are made and often to buy "direct from the source". *'''Timeshares''' When visiting the '''resort''' cities of Mexico (e.g. Cancun, Puerto Vallarta or similar), it is more than common to be approached on the streets, in bars, in restaurants and anywhere with offers of gifts, free rental cars, free nights, free dinners, free anything that may appeal to you, just for visiting and listening to a presentation to buy a timeshare. Unless you are severely desperate for something to do, you may want to ignore those making the offer and stay away from those ''free'' offers. While the properties are very nice, great locations and plenty of amenities, this is not the place to ''learn'' about timeshares. Do your homework before even thinking about buying a timeshare, see what the values are in the ''resale'' market and understand the ''rights'' you are buying and the future costs. Collecting on the ''free'' offers may be difficult, if not impossible. * '''Automobiles''' It's certainly worth going over and importing a car back from there, although importing it to the EU/US standards is the hard part. Recommended are the Ford Fusion (like the British Ford Mondeo, but more upmarket) and the Chrysler 200 (the 2.4 model is worth it). Volkswagens can be substantially better-equipped than European or North American counterparts. The Passat sold in Mexico is not the same car as in Europe, and is substantially bigger, however, engines are the same as in Europe, except for the 2.5 petrol. * '''Cuban cigars''' are a fun novelty for tourists from the US and are widely available. It's still illegal to bring them back to the US, although the worst that's likely to happen is they'll be confiscated by customs. ====Credit cards and debit cards==== Credit cards and debit cards (with Maestro or MasterCard/Visa affiliation) are widely accepted in Mexico. You can use them at ATMs as well as in most department stores, bigger restaurants, gas stations, but be sure that outside cities you always carry sufficient cash in pesos, and generally verify the possibility to pay with card before consumption. Smaller (often family run) businesses often accept only cash. Most of the time, an extra 5% when paying with card is added. Also, you cannot get lower prices if you haggle unless you pay cash. While many Pemex stations accept credit cards, especially in locations that have heavy tourist traffic, some do not; travellers who intend to pay by credit card should always ask the attendant if the card is accepted before pumping begins. ====ATMs==== Bank of America customers can avoid ATM fees by using Santander Serfin ATMs. Other banks may have similar policies, check with your respective institution. For example, Banamex bank is owned by Citibank/Citigroup, and Bancomer is owned by BBVA, which is related to Chase in the United States. Ask to your bank if they have relation with Mexican banks, and the advantages that such ally can provide. Otherwise, do not be surprised to find yourself with a fee for each withdrawal. ATMs ask you if you want to accept the shown fee. In some ATMs you need to put your credit card inside crosswise. 5 Lowest ATM fees used with UK issued Mastercard, January 2024: Inbursa M$22.04, BanBajio M$23.20, Banca Mifel M$26.68, BanCoppel M$29, CitiBanamex M$30.74. As of January 2024, other fees are: Banco Azteca M$34.80, Santander M$34.80, HSBC M$35.84, Banorte M$58.00, Multiva M$67.28, Banregio M$81.20, BBVA M$174 pesos There is no difference between Mastercard and Visa. ATMs in smaller towns can run out of currency; sometimes this is a regular occurrence. Check with the bank (or locals) about the best time to use the ATM and never wait until the last minute to get cash. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping]] in Mexico is similar to the United States. It is usually from 10 to 15%. Meals have a 10% to 15% tip (this includes fast food deliveries). This tip is usually left by most people in restaurants, although it is not so common in street restaurants or stands, where the tenders usually have a can or box where people deposit coins. It is generally common to leave a tip on the table after paying and therefore having small change is very useful. Mexican bars and night clubs often charge directly to the bill 15% of the total amount (taxes included). That is illegal in most cases because of the imposition of the tip and because they calculate the 15% with taxes included. In large groups, or in nightclubs the barmen expect the customers to deposit their tip in a cup left on the table before serving the drinks so the service they give is in function with the tip they received. It is also customary to give a tip to the person who sometimes guard the car as if they were valet parking; in Mexico these people are often called ''viene viene'' (literally: "comes, comes") or ''franeleros'' and usually people give them M$3-20 depending on the zone, although they sometimes ask for bigger sums of money when the car is left close to a night life area. In medium and large retail stores such as Wal-Mart there are uniformed helpers, usually children or the elderly, who bag the products just after the clerk has scanned them. This role is called ''cerillo'' (Spanish for "match"). It is common for these helpers to not have a basic salary, so all the money earned is from the tips people give them. Most customers give M$2-5 depending on the number of products. Cerillos also put the bags in the cart and if the load is large they can even help bringing it to the car and unloading the bags; in these cases, they normally receive more than M$15. Tipping is not expected in cabs or buses, except when it is a tour. In some populated Mexican restaurants wandering musicians enter, play, and expect the customers to pay something, although this is voluntary. In filling stations, the workers usually get M$2-5 for every gasoline load. In stadiums people give a small tip to the person who shows the place where they should sit. Tips are also given to bellboys, barbers and people that work in similar services. ==Eat== [[File:TacoPlacesPetatlan.JPG|thumbnail|Taco stalls]] [[File:Gordita.jpg|thumbnail|Gordita]] {{see also|Mexican cuisine}} [[Mexican cuisine]] can be described better as a collection of various regional cuisines rather than a standard list of dishes for the whole country. Because of climate, geography and ethnic differences, we can classify Mexican cuisine broadly in 4 great categories according to the region: * '''Northern''' – Mostly meat dishes done mainly from beef and goat. This includes Cabrito, Carne Asada (Barbecue) and Arrachera. Is influenced by international cuisine (mostly from the United States and Europe), but it retains the essential Mexican flavor. * '''Central''' – This region is influenced by the rest of the country, but has its own well-developed local flavor in dishes such as Pozole, Menudo and Carnitas. Dishes are mostly corn-based and with different spices. * '''Southeastern''' – Is known for its spicy vegetable and chicken-based dishes. Caribbean cuisine have influences here because of the location. * '''Coast''' – Has a strong emphasis on seafood and fish, but corn-based recipes can be easily found as well. Ask for the "platillo tipico" of the town, which is the local speciality that may not be found elsewhere, a variation, or the birthplace of a recipe. Also consider that most of the recipes change from place to place: for example, tamales in the south are made with the banana plant leaves, and in the Huasteca region tamales are very big (they are called "Zacahuil"); one is OK for a complete family. If you are travelling here from [[Spain]] or elsewhere in [[Latin America]], keep in mind that many Mexican dishes can have the same name, but be very different from their counterparts elsewhere. For instance, a Mexican ''tamal'' is very different from a Colombian ''tamal'', and a Mexican ''tortilla'' bears virtually no similarity at all to a Spanish ''tortilla''. Traditional Mexican food can often be very spicy; if you are not used to peppers, always ask if your food includes it. "(''¿Esto tiene chile? Es picante?'')." There are many [[street food|food carts]] on the streets of Mexican cities and towns. Travelers are advised to eat from these carts with caution, as hygienic preparation practices are not always reliable. You can measure the quality of food by popularity; do not eat in lonely places, even if they are restaurants or hotels. Consider that Mexicans eat their main meal in the middle of the afternoon (around 3 o'clock), with breakfast or "almuerzo", a mid-morning affair after a very light something, like a small plate of fruit or a roll with coffee, in the very early morning. Although, many Mexicans have large breakfasts in the morning. Later, at night the meal varies from very light, such as sweet rolls or breads, coffee or hot chocolate, to heavy dinner, such as pozole, tacos, and tamales. Schedule your meals accordingly and you will get a better perspective on the gauge of how busy (popular) a restaurant is. In doing so, you may (or may not) find some of the most unique and genuinely Mexican dishes you've ever had. From these vendors, you may find tacos, burgers, bread, roasted field corn or elote served with mayonnaise, or a light cream, and sprinkled with fresh white cheese, roasted sweet potato called camote, and almost any kind of food and service you would imagine. * '''Chicharrón''' – Deep fried pork skin. Quite crunchy and if well-prepared slightly oily. Heavenly spread with guacamole. Or sometimes cooked in a mild chili sauce and served with eggs. * '''Enchiladas''' – Chicken or meat stuffed soft tortillas covered with green, red or mole sauce. Some may have melted cheese inside and/or on top. * '''Tacos''' – Soft corn tortillas filled with meat (asada (steak strips), pollo (shredded chicken), carnitas (fried shredded pork), lengua (cow tongue), cabeza (meat from cow skull), sesos (cow brains), tripa (cow gut), al pastor (chili, pork, beef cut from a spit) or chorizo (pork sausage)). In the north sometimes flour tortillas are used. Do not expect the crispy taco shell anywhere. * '''Tamales''' (singular ''tamal'') – corn dough shell with meat or vegetable fillings. Tamales Dulces contain fruit and/or nuts. * '''Tortas''' – Fancy Mexican sandwich. Bread roll that is grilled lightly, meat fillings are same as tacos: lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, beans, onion, mayonnaise and avocado. One is beginning to find tortas with the American styled cold cuts available, as well, in urban areas. * '''Huitlacoche''' – (wit-la-ko-che) A fungus, much like mushrooms, found in corn. This dish is usually an additive to others. Foreigners might find it hard to stomach but Mexicans swear by it. Although most Mexicans love huitlacoche, most do not prepare it in their own home very frequently. It can be found in most markets or stores. * '''Quesadillas''' – Cheese or other ingredients grilled in between corn tortillas, heavy on cheese and lighter on other items such as chicken, pork, beans, squash flower blossoms and such. * '''Mole''' – Mild to medium chili based sauce made with cocoa and a hint of peanut over meat, usually served with shredded chicken or turkey. ('Pollo en mole' and this is known as Puebla or poblano style). There are many regional moles and some are green, yellow, black and can vary greatly in flavor depending on the artistic talent or preferences involved. * '''Pozole''' – Chicken or pork broth with hominy corn, spiced when served with oregano, lettuce, lemon juice, radish, chopped onion, dried ground chile and other ingredients such as chicken, pork, or even seafood, usually served with a side dish of tostadas, fried potato and fresh cheese tacos. Very fortifying. * '''Gorditas''' – corn patty stuffed with chicharron, chicken, cheese, etc. topped with cream, cheese and hot sauce. * '''Grillo''' – Grasshopper, usually cooked and placed inside another dish such as a quesadilla. It is frequently found in markets in the state of Morelos and other central Mexico states. This is not common in Mexico City. * '''Guacamole''' – crushed avocado sauce with green serrano chile, chopped red tomato and onion, lime juice, salt, and served with somewhat thick (1/8 inch) fried tortilla slices or "totopos". * '''Tostadas''' – fried flat tortilla topped with fried beans, lettuce, cream, fresh cheese, sliced red tomato and onion, hot sauce, and chicken or other main ingredient. Think a corn chip dippers, on low dose steroids, for salsas and as above. You do not usually get a plate of this automatically in many parts of Mexico as you would in the US, although they are starting to show up in resort areas that cater to US nationals automatically. * '''Huaraches''' – a bigger (think shoe-shaped) version of a gordita. * '''Sopes''' – corn patty topped with a wide variety of ingredients such as chicken, cheese, mashed beans, and various hot sauces. * '''Carnitas''' – deep fried pork meat served with a variety of salsa, to get them dry with less grease. * '''Chile en nogada''' – A big green Poblano chile with a beef or pork apple stuffing, covered with a white nut (usually walnut, known as ''nuez'') sauce and sprinkled with pomegranate seeds which happen to be red. The three colors represent the national flag and the dish is served nationwide around Mexican Independence Day (16 September). * '''Barbacoa''' – Sheep or goat meat cooked with maguey leaves in an oven made at a hole in the ground. Think BBQ heaven without the hickory smoke or catsup-based BBQ sauce. Served with condiments and salsas in corn tortilas and sometimes in a torta bread roll. * '''Sopa de Tortilla''' – tortilla chips soup usually of chicken broth, plain or with a touch of tomato flavor, and usually mild and not at all hot. Commonly served with diced avocado and fresh crumbled white cheese on top. * '''Chilaquiles''' – tortilla chips with a green tomatillo, or red tomato, or mild chili sauce, Usually served with chicken or eggs on top or within. Usually a mild dish. * '''Migas''' – is a typical dish in the center of the country which is a guajillo chile broth with soaked bread, which you can add the pork bones with meat or eggs. You may see a sign with '''"orden de tacos"'''. This means usually 5 pieces, if there is no other amount stated. The word ''orden'' is also used for other types of Mexican food. There is breakfast in McDonald's that you may not find in other countries. It includes:<br> • McMolletes<br> • McMuffin Huevo y Salchicha<br> • McMuffin a la Mexicana<br> • Hotcakes con Salchichas<br> • Desayuno Especial Mexicano<br> • McBurrito a la Mexicana for M$30 (Dec 2021)<br> Basic burgers you may not find in other countries during the day are for about M$30 (Dec 2021):<br> • Hamburguesa Gourmet<br> • Hamburguesa Especial con lechuga ==Drink== [[File:Venta de tequila en Tequila Jalisco México..JPG|thumbnail|Tequila store in [[Tequila]]]] Tap water is potable, but generally not recommended for drinking. Hotels usually give guests one (large) bottle of drinking water per room per night. Bottled water is also readily available in supermarkets and at tourist attractions. * Absinthe is legal in Mexico. * Tequila, distilled from Agave (a specific type of cactus) * Pulque, ferment made from Maguey * Mezcal, similar to tequila but distilled from Maguey * Raicilla, a type of mezcal made in Jalisco * Pox, whisky meets rum, distilled from grains and cane sugar, made in Chiapas * Tepache, ferment made from pineapple * Tuba, made from coconut palm tree [[File:Modelo Negra and Victoria beer bottles.jpg|thumb|A Mexican dark lager (Modelo Negra) and golden lager (Victoria)]] There are also several Mexican beers, most of which are available outside Mexico, these include Corona (popular, but not necessarily as overwhelmingly popular in Mexico as many foreigners think), Dos Equis (XX) and Modelo Especial. Lighter Mexican beers are often served with lime and salt, though many Mexicans do not drink beer in this fashion. In some places you will find beer served as a prepared drink called "Michelada" or simply "Chelada". The formula varies depending on the place, but it's usually beer mixed with lime juice and various sauces and spices on ice served in a salt rim glass. Spicy beer is available in supermarkets; try it, it will be an experience. Other variation called "Cubana" includes Clamato cocktail, soybean sauce, salt and a little bit of hot sauce. Mexico produces wine in several different areas, the most important of which is the [[Valle de Guadalupe]] in [[Baja California]], which accounts for more than 90% of Mexico's total wine production. The second largest wine region is in the Bajio state of [[Queretaro (state)|Queretaro]] centered on the town of [[Ezequiel Montes]]. Wine is also produced in the states of [[Sonora]], [[Coahuila]], and [[Guanajuato (state)|Guanajuato]]. Most Mexicans tend to prefer European or Chilean imports, but Mexican wines are becoming more popular as they continue to earn accolades in the press and in competitions. In the prestigious 2023 Concours Mundial de Bruxelles, the top point getter was Cenzontle Blanco from [[Valle de Guadalupe]], beating out thousands of wines from around the world. Non alcoholic beverages: * Chocolate * Atole * Horchata (rice based drink) * Agua de Jamaica (hibiscus iced tea, similar to karkadai in Egypt) * Licuados de fruta (fruit smoothies and milkshakes) * Champurrado (thick chocolate drink) * Refrescos (common sodas, generally sweet and made with cane sugar, not corn syrup as in the United States). [[File:Champurrado thenewplace sf.jpg|thumbnail|Champurrado]] The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18, but not strictly enforced. In many places, consumption of alcohol in public ("open container") is illegal and usually punishable by a day in jail. Be aware of waitresses and barmen, especially at night clubs. If you are not aware of your consumption and how much you already spent, they can add a few more drinks to your account. Some do this, not all. Alcoholmeters are widely used in driving roads If drinking, always have a designated driver. Driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage will result in 1 to 3 days in jail. Mexico, especially the southern state of Chiapas, produces excellent coffee. Café con leche, usually one part coffee to one part steamed milk, is very popular. Unfortunately, many places in Mexico that are not cafés serve Nescafe instant coffee, so you may have to search for the good coffee, but it's there. Mineral water is popular in many regions of Mexico. Topo Chico is the most widely available brand by a very wide margin. ==Learn== [[File:Flag of Mexico in Acapulco.jpg|thumbnail|Hornos Beach in Acapulco]] The most important Universities in Mexico include the '''UNAM''', ranked 73rd worldwide, and the best in Latin America. Its main campus is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Murals in the main campus were painted by some of the most recognized artists in Mexican history, such as Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros. '''IPN''' (Instituto Politécnico Nacional), '''ITESM''' (Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, located in Monterrey but with branch campuses in many other Mexican cities) the '''Iberoamerican University''' (Universidad Iberoamericana, part of the Jesuit University System) and '''Universidad Anahuac'''. [[File:Chichen Itza 21.JPG|thumbnail|Chichen Itza, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world]] Most of the government-funded universities on mayor cities (state capital) have short courses on history, gastronomy and cultural subjects, most of them are almost free. Other places are the "Casa de la Cultura", (house of culture) that are historical buildings used for cultural related activities (music concerts, theater, paint and other exhibits, they also have "talleres" (workshops). Most places have programs for foreigners to learn Spanish, or even study a whole degree. There are some other courses where you can learn traditional Mexican activities such as handcrafts. There are Spanish language schools throughout Mexico. The city with the most schools is Cuernavaca, with more than 50 schools. Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato also offer a number of schools to choose from. Prices vary; however, most schools are very reasonably priced. Many schools can arrange homestays with local Mexican families. ==Work== Working may require a work visa, which is difficult to get if you just want to freelance for a short time. Many important headquarters are located throughout the main cities of Mexico. Top Mexican corporations such as Televisa, Bimbo, Cemex, Telmex and Vitra are often willing to hire professionals who are native English speakers as much of their business is developed alongside North American corporations. Native English speakers can pick up work as English teachers. The upside is that English speakers with no knowledge of Spanish are appreciated, because they will force their students to practice English. The downside is that salaries are somewhat low. ==Sleep== [[File:Plazadeliberacion1.jpg|thumbnail|Plaza de liberación and the cathedral, Guadalajara]] Several hotel chains are available throughout Mexico, including Palace Resorts, Le Blanc Spa Resort, Best Western, Holiday Inn, CityExpress, Fiesta Inn, Fairmont, Hilton, Ritz, Camino Real, Marriott (Sheraton, W, Westin, Four Points) and many others. Rates have risen considerably, though most are still reasonable compared to similar U.S. or European hotels. Chain accommodations are usually clean and comfortable, good for business travelers, but not necessarily for those wanting to experience Mexico itself. There are also many all-inclusive resorts for those visiting the major beach destinations. Boutique hotels are found all over the country; price range varies but all of them are rich in Mexican traditions, elegance and charm, the perfect way to experience the cultural heritage of each state. A great source of information is Melba Levick's book ''Mexicasa,'' found in many libraries and online bookstores. Otherwise an authentic accommodation can usually be found by asking locals or gringos, especially in the smaller towns. Smaller hotels and motels along the roadside may not be safe or comfortable. If you are unsure about conditions or the safety of the room, ask to see it before paying. This will not be considered rude. Decent hotels for a low budget are usually found around the central bus station of a town. If you are going to stay at cheaper hotels in cooler areas in the winter consider bringing extra clothes, an electric blanket or a sleeping bag, as there is power, but no heat. And although it may get quite hot by afternoon outside, adobe and cement are like fridges. An electric tea kettle is also a good idea, as hot water might not be available when you want it. There is a large backpacker culture in Mexico, and there are many hostels offering dorm accommodation and private rooms. You can expect to pay M$100-300 (Nov 2021) for a night in a dorm, sometimes including breakfast. Hostels are a fantastic place to share information with fellow travelers, and you can often find people who have been to your future destinations. If you're travelling with children, use a plastic case (with wheels and a handle) as luggage, and it can be used as a bathtub for the kids if necessary. Budget hotels rarely, if ever, have bathtubs. ==Stay safe== [[File:Policia turistica ciudad mexico.jpg|thumbnail|Mounted tourist police, Mexico City]] {{cautionbox | Some governments advise that you '''should not travel''' to the following states: [[Guerrero]], [[Michoacán]], [[Colima (state)|Colima]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Tamaulipas]] and [[Zacatecas (state)|Zacatecas]]. These governments recommend against traveling to the six states mentioned above because of high levels of crime, unreliable law enforcement assistance, and violence related to drug trafficking. The Mexican government makes a considerable effort to protect visitors to major tourist destinations, and resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico generally do not see the levels of drug-related violence and crime reported in the border region and in areas along major trafficking routes. | us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html | uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mexico | canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mexico | australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/americas/mexico | lastedit=2023-12-15}} Mexico has a reputation for being a dangerous country — a reputation that's not entirely unwarranted — but the average traveller should not be too overly concerned or cautious of their surroundings. A lot of the crime occurs between those involved in the drug trade or organised crime. (See [[#Drug traffic issues|drug traffic issues]] for more information) In most cities, location is very important as security changes from place to place. Areas close to downtown (''centro'') are safer to walk at night, especially on the "Plaza", "Zócalo" or "Jardín" (main square) and areas nearby. Stay in populated areas, avoid poor neighborhoods, especially at night, and don't walk there at any time if you are alone. Vicious beatings have been reported at resorts by people who have travelled alone, so stay alert for any suspicious-looking individual. If you wish to visit one of the slums, you should only go as part of a guided tour with a reputable guide or tour company. Political violence in Chiapas and Oaxaca has abated, and is far less of a threat than drug-related crime. However, Mexican authorities do not look approvingly on foreigners who participate in demonstrations (even peaceful ones) or voice support for groups such as the Ejército Zapatista de Liberación Nacional and its leader, Subcomandante Marcos, even if their images and slogans are commonly sold on t-shirts and caps in markets. Do not wave cash or credit cards around. Use them discreetly and put them away as quickly as possible. The nationwide emergency number is '''911'''. Although Mexico has one of the largest police forces in the world, systemic corruption and low salaries often restrict the capabilities of law enforcement. Enlisting the help of the police almost always requires solid Spanish-language skills. Beggars are not usually a threat, but you will find lots in urban areas. Avoid being surrounded by them, as some can [[Pickpockets|pickpocket]] your goods. Giving away two pesos quickly can get you out of such troubles (but may also attract other beggars). Most poor and homeless Mexicans prefer to sell trinkets, gum, sing, or provide some meager service than beg outright. Larger cities, such as Guadalajara and Mexico City, are safer than most places in Mexico. However, caution is still recommended. ===Drug crimes=== [[File:Mexican States with mafia conflicts.png|thumb|States with the most conflict, marked in red (2010)]] Former president Felipe Calderon waged war on the drug cartels, and in turn, they waged war against the government (and more often, among each other). Some Mexican northern and border cities such as Tijuana, Nogales, Nuevo Laredo, Chihuahua, Culiacán, Durango, and Juárez can be dangerous if you are not familiar with them, especially at night. Most crime in the northern cities is related to the drug trade and police corruption. However, since law enforcement figures are often overwhelmed battling drug-related activities, many northern border towns that were somewhat dangerous to begin with are now a hotbed for criminals to act with impunity. Ciudad Juárez, in particular, bears the brunt of this violence, and with nearly a fourth of Mexico's overall murders, travel there requires special attention. Away from the northern states, cartel related violence is centered in specific areas, including the Pacific Coast states of Michoacán and Guerrero. However, exercise caution anywhere, especially at night or in high crime areas. Tourists and other travellers are of no interest to the drug cartels. Many popular tourist destinations like Oaxaca, Guanajuato, Los Cabos, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Cancún, Mérida, and Guadalajara are largely unaffected by this, simply because there are no borders there. Ciudad Juárez is a primary battleground in the drug war, and while foreign travellers are not often targeted, the presence of two warring cartels, many small opportunistic gangs, and armed police and soldiers has created a chaotic situation to say the least. As a rule of thumb, the further away you are from the border, and the closer you are to Mexico City, the safer you'll be. Many people go to Mexico City to seek refuge from drug-related violence as many politicians and military personnel are there. Consumption of drugs should be prohibited, although the problem of illegal medicine is serious in Mexico, this is still illegal (but consumption of drugs like cannabis or having a small amount are legal or decriminalised). Also, this can let you to be in trouble with gang. The army also sets up random checkpoints throughout all major highways in search of narcotics and weapons. Drug consumption is also opposed by a large percentage of the population. ===Advice for the beach=== ====[[Jellyfish]]==== If you see Portuguese man o' war (''Physalia physalis''), be far away from it. If a person is unluckily contacted with the jellyfish, use tweezers to remove the jellyfish's stingers, then go to hospital. ==== Stingray stings ==== Choose a place with hot water if you can, because the heat deactivates the poison. ==== [[Sunburns]] ==== Bring only reef-safe sunscreen if going to beaches because you might not find it available in some areas. ==== Riptides ==== Very dangerous, particularly during and after storms. ===Public transportation=== When in major cities &ndash; especially Mexico City &ndash; it is better to play it safe with taxis. The best options are to phone a taxi company, to request that your hotel or restaurant call a taxi for you, or to pick up a taxi from an established post (''Taxi de Sitio''). Also, taxis can be stopped in the middle of the street, which is okay for most of the country, but particularly unsafe in Mexico City. As chaotic as it might be sometimes, the [https://www.metro.cdmx.gob.mx/ Metro] is the best way to move around in Mexico City: it's cheap (M$5 for a ticket as of Feb 02, 2020), safe, has a large network covering almost anywhere you'd want to go in the city and it's extremely fast, compared to any on-street transportation, since it doesn't have to bear with the constant traffic jams. If you've never been in a crowded subway, avoid peak hours (usually from 06:00–09:00 and 17:00–20:00) and do your homework: check first which line (''línea'') and station (''estación'') you want to go to and the address of the place you're trying to reach. Your hotel can give you this information, and maps of the subway system are available on the internet and at the stations. Most stations also have maps of the vicinity. Avoid taking the subway at late hours of the night, but during the day many stations are patrolled by police officers and the subway is safer than taking the public bus. Your major concern in the subway is the pickpockets, so keep your important belongings and wallets in a safe place. A word of caution for people who are used to European or major American subway systems that operate around the clock: even in Mexico City, the last subway leaves around midnight, with service only resuming in the early morning. Taxis are priced accordingly, and you should keep your wits about you when moving around in the middle of the night. If you are travelling by bus, do not put your valuables in your big bag in the storage compartment of the bus. If the police or the military controls the luggage, they might take out what they want, especially in night buses, when passengers are most likely asleep. The use of a money belt (worn underneath the clothes and out of sight) is highly recommended. ===Driving=== * All distances on the signboards and speed limits are in metric units. * Gas is likewise sold in metric units and far cheaper than in Europe (and still a bit cheaper than in the U.S.) [[File:15-07-21-Mexico-Stadtzentrum-RalfR-N3S 9738.jpg|thumb|Downtown Mexico City]] If driving in from the [[USA]], always purchase Mexican liability insurance (legal defense coverage recommended) before crossing the border or immediately after crossing. When you are paying for your temporary import permit (for going beyond border areas), often in the same building there are several stalls selling Mexican auto insurance. Even if your American (or Canadian, etc.) insurance covers your vehicle in Mexico, it '''cannot''' (by Mexican law) cover liability (e.g., hitting something or injuring someone). You will probably spend time in a Mexican jail if you have an accident without it. And even if your own insurance does (in theory) provide liability coverage in Mexico—you'll be filing your claim from behind bars! Don't risk it, get Mexican auto insurance. Never drive above the speed limit or run stop signs/red lights, as Mexican police will use any excuse to pull over tourists and give you a ticket. In some cities, the police can not give you a ticket, but they might warn you. The fine for speeding could be as much as US$100 (M$1870)<!--shouldn't we use the exact peso amount instead of a rounded USD amount?-->, depending on the city. As of April 2011, police across the country are cracking down on drunk driving, particularly in Mexico City, the larger cities, and the beach resorts. There are random checkpoints throughout the country in which every driver has to stop and take an automated inebriation test. If you fail, you will end up in a Mexican prison. You will mostly find beggars and windshield cleaners at some traffic lights; having your windows closed at all times is especially recommendable in some areas of Mexico City. The windshield cleaners will try to clean yours: a strong and firm "no" is suggested. ===Natural disasters=== Natural disasters in Mexico include [[hurricanes]] and [[earthquakes]]. [[Mexico City]] in particular is located in a seismically active area. === Firearms === Every year a few U.S. tourists run afoul of Mexico's strict gun laws. '''Bringing guns into Mexico is illegal in most circumstances''', and this includes guns kept for personal protection on private boats. If you want to bring a firearm, see [[Recreational shooting#Mexico]]. === Hiking === Many trails are unmarked in real life, even if they are present at OpenStreetMap or a hiking app. If a local rule says to do a trail with a guide - it's much better to go with the guide, the route will be dangerous and easy to get lost. ==Stay healthy== Some parts of Mexico are known for '''[[travelers' diarrhea]]''', often called "Montezuma's Revenge" (Venganza de Moctezuma). The reason for this is not so much the spicy food but the contamination of the '''[[water]] supply''' in some of the poorer zones in Mexico. In most of the small towns that are less industrialized, only the poorest Mexicans will drink tap water. The best policy is to only drink bottled or purified water, both of which are readily available. Be sure to specify ''bottled'' water in restaurants and avoid ice (which is often not made from purified water). Just like in the US, in most major Mexican cities the water is purified at the cities' water company. In most restaurants in these poor zones, the only water served comes from large jugs of purified water. If you get sick, visit your local clinic as soon as possible. There is medicine available that will counter the bacteria. Medicine in urban areas is highly developed, public hospitals are just as good as public hospitals in US, and just as the American public hospitals, they are always full. It's recommended going to private hospitals for faster service. Before traveling to rural areas of Mexico, it might be a good idea to obtain '''anti-malarial medications''' from your health care provider. It is strongly advised that the traveler be sure that any meats they are consuming have been thoroughly cooked due to an increasing rate of '''roundworm''' infections, particularly in the Acapulco area. Along with the risk for malaria, mosquitoes have also been known to carry the '''West Nile virus'''. Be sure to bring an effective insect repellent, preferably one that contains the ingredient DEET. The rate of '''AIDS/HIV''' infection in Mexico is lower than in the US, France and most Latin American nations. However, if you plan on having sex, be sure that you use a latex condom to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading the virus. As with any western location, cases of '''hantavirus pulmonary syndrome''' have been reported throughout Mexico. This is an acute, rare (but often fatal) illness for which there is no known cure. The virus is believed to be present in animal feces, particularly feces from members of the rodent family. Therefore, do not wander into animal dens and be especially careful when entering enclosed spaces that are not well ventilated and lack sunlight. Vaccination against '''Hepatitis A & B''' and '''Typhoid fever''' is recommended. If you are bitten by an animal, assume that the animal was carrying '''rabies''' and seek medical attention immediately for treatment. In remote areas, carry a first aid kit, aspirin, and other related items that are sold without medical prescription. ==Respect== [[File:MojigangaSMA002.jpg|thumb|Festival in [[San Miguel de Allende]]]] Mexicans have a somewhat relaxed sense of time so it's vital to be patient. Arriving half an hour late is common and should not be taken in a negative light. When anyone, even a total stranger, sneezes, you always say "¡salud!" ("bless you!" or more literally, "your health!"): otherwise, it is considered rude. In rural areas, particularly in the Mexican heartland (Jalisco, Zacatecas, Aguascalientes, etc.), the even more pious "Jesús te bendiga" (May Jesus bless you) will follow a sneeze. Attitudes towards LGBT travellers can be hostile in more rural states, but [[LGBT Mexico City|Mexico City is very LGBT friendly]] as are popular beach resort areas such as [[Cancun]], [[Puerto Vallarta]], and [[Acapulco]]. By court order, all states in Mexico either allow the performance of same-sex marriages, or recognize such marriages when performed in other states. Same-sex marriage is performed in Mexico City and in the states of Aguascalientes, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Campeche, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Colima, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Morelos, Nayarit, Nuevo León, Oaxaca, Puebla, Quintana Roo, San Luis Potosí, Sinaloa, Sonora and Tlaxcala as well as in certain municipalities in Guerrero and Zacatecas. It is pending publication in Querétaro, and being prepared for legislation in Yucatán. Southern Mexico City is the best place in terms of tolerance. When entering churches, always take off any sunglasses, caps or hats. Wearing shorts is rarely a problem, but still wear a sweatshirt or sweater to your waist to avoid showing too much skin, which could be disrespectful in such places. However, away from the beaches, or northern areas, shorts are very rarely worn by Mexicans on the street and thus will attract more attention to you and make you stand out as a foreigner. === Sensitive issues === '''Show respect to Mexico's laws'''. Although corruption and bribery have long been around, a visitor behaving in a way that implies that Mexico is a lawless country is considered disrespectful. Offering a bribe to an official may get you into trouble. '''You are unlikely to cause offence by having a discussion about local politics, economics and history'''; Mexicans consider them good conversational topics and are more than happy to delight you with such discussions. This said, sensitive subjects like illegal immigration to the US, crime, or the drug war are likely to arouse strong emotions. Mexicans are well aware of their country's problems and would like to forget about them once in a while. Also, you might be surprised at how much Mexicans know about the politics of your country – especially the times in its history when they feel your country has screwed Mexico over (which applies especially for Spain, France and the U.S.). That said, Mexican history tends to be viewed as a series of shades of grey — there are those who feel the need to extol economic growth under Porfirio Díaz, just like there are those who point out anti-democratic tendencies under Benito Juarez. '''A lot of Mexicans do not have a favourable opinion of the Spanish Empire''' and the things they've done in the past. They feel that many of Mexico's problems are rooted in what the Spanish brought over. This said, there are no feelings of resentment towards Spain and Spanish people. '''Try not to assume the worst in people'''. Mexico may have a lot of social and political problems, but that does not mean that everyone is alike. '''The great majority of the population is and traditionally has been Roman Catholic''', and there is still a strong following of this faith among Mexicans from all socioeconomic backgrounds. However, there are sizeable Protestant, Evangelicial, Pentecostal communities (in part due to US missionary activity) and the country also has one of the largest Jehovah's Witnesses communities. The irreligious are a small minority and they are found mostly among college-educated urban dwellers of the middle and upper middle class. Saying anything that hints at atheism or agnosticism may simply be shrugged off, or could incite lengthy discussions or at worst, attempts at proselytizing. As a rule of thumb, try not to have religious discussions with people you're not well acquainted with. === Cultural notes === While overt racism may not be apparent, as a general rule, wealth and social status are historically tied to European ancestry and skin color. Mexican society is sharply divided by social class, with the rich, middle class, and poor often living very separate lives, and can have very distinct cultures. Social practices or tastes of one social group may not be shared by all classes. Clubs, bars, and restaurants may cater largely to one crowd or another, and a wealthier person or tourist may feel out of place or received unwanted attention in a working class cantina; a poor looking person may be blatantly refused service or get unfriendly stares at an exclusive establishment. There are many words in the country according to ethnic background: * Do not be offended to be called a "güero(a)" (blonde) and its diminutive form "güerito(a)" (blondie), as its a common way for the average Mexican citizen to refer mostly to Caucasian people, including white Mexicans. The words "gringo" and its synonym "gabacho" are used regardless of the actual nationality of the tourists and they are not meant as offensive. Actually, they are often used as terms of endearment. * If you are East Asian, you will be referred to as "Chino(a)" (Chinese) and its diminutive form "chinito(a)" regardless of whether you are Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, etc. Exceptions are in the capital, Mexicali, and in Monterrey, where a decent-sized Korean community does exist. * If you are black, "negro(a)" or "negrito(a)" may seem harsh, especially if you are from the US, but it is not a swear word. Although there are few black people in Mexico in many regions of the country (except in on the east and west coasts in the south), Mexicans, especially the younger generations, are not hateful. In fact, a revolutionary who later became the second president was a man of mixed European and African descent, Vicente Guerrero. * Historically, all Middle Easterners were referred to as "turcos" (even if they were from Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, etc.) [[File:Catedral de Guadañajara.JPG|thumb|Guadalajara cathedral]] === Other things to watch out for === If you try to use Spanish to address people, be careful about the use of "tú" (informal, friendly; the verb for calling someone "tú" is tutear) and "usted" (formal, respectful) forms. Using "tú" can be demeaning to people, since this is the form normally used for addressing children or close friends. Use "usted" unless you are sure you can use "tú"; doing so may perhaps seem a shade old-fashioned, but doing otherwise can be pretty rude and embarrassing in some situations. Always use the "usted" form to a law enforcement officer (or other person of authority), even if they may use the "tú" form to talk to you. Otherwise, you can say "tú" to children under 16, to people who genuinely are your friends and to persons who call you by your first name or explicitly have told you to do so. People address each other depending on their social status, age and friendship. To refer to a woman, always call her "señorita" (Miss) unless you are sure that she is married, then you call her "señora" (Mrs). When talking to an older man, use "señor" irrespective of his marital status. If you want to call a waiter, address him as "joven" which means "young man". You may call someone by his professional title ("ingeniero", "arquitecto", "doctor", "oficial", etc.). Actually, Mexican people will use the "tú" and "usted", "first name" or "surname" depending on their relationship, and the code is not easy to learn. While the word "güey" is equivalent to "dude" or "mate" among young people, it is still considered extremely vulgar by the older generation. This abrasive term of endearment is used only between people who have achieved a certain level of trust, so avoid using it. In Mexico, "estúpido" has a far, far worse connotation than "stupid" in English. Due to the highly matriarchal nature of Mexican culture, the combination of words "tu madre" (your mother) is cacophonous and taken offensively by residents, regardless of age or gender. To refer to somebody's mother, remember to replace it with "su señora madre" (roughly "your respected mother") in formal situations or the sweeter "tu mamá" in informal ones. Never, ever use strong language when talking to a woman. You may see displays of male chauvinism. It is falling out of favor, but it is still seen and mostly tolerated in small towns, as well as cities that receive considerable amounts of rural migrants. It can be defined as a male's strong desire for and skill of the domination and imposition of will, on a wife, sister, or any close female. It can also be identified by a strong desire to prove courage through showy bravado and status through a following of yes-men and henchmen. While it is usually not directed towards visitors, it can be in a variety of strengths. It is best to pretend not to notice it and move on. Another type of ''machismo'', which perhaps stems out of the same desires but does not carry any of the antisocial connotations, is male courteousness towards women. This is manifested in standing up when a lady enters a room, opening or holding a door, conceding preference or rights of way, giving up a seat, offering a hand when stepping down from a steep step, etc. It is generally reserved for older women, or women of great power, merit, and social stature. Rejecting these types of friendly gestures is considered arrogant or rude. ==Connect== Cell phones are the most convenient, and usually most inexpensive, way to talk. Before going to Mexico, call your cell phone provider and verify that you have international roaming enabled (and make sure you know what charges you should expect, for domestic and international voice calls and for data, since you will want to use your maps and Uber apps). You can make international calls free if you have an app like WhatsApp or Telegram and connect to Wi-fi before using it. Data rates can be high for cell phone users, but you can manage them by turning off data in your phone's settings except for when you actively want to use an app. If you're going to be in Mexico for an extended period of time, it might be cheaper to use Mexican carriers, either by buying a SIM card or a cheap throwaway phone. If you have an unlocked GSM phone, you can buy a prepaid SIM card in Mexico. The most expensive provider Telcel provides good coverage throughout the country. A SIM card for the Telcel brand amigo express is for M$29 (Nov 2021) e.g., in an Oxxo store. The first recharge must be at least M$50 (Nov 2021). The offers are amongst others:<br> • M$50: 400MB for 7 days (Nov 2021)<br> • M$100: 1,3GB for 15 days (Nov 2021)<br> You can see all rates and recharge [https://www.telcel.com/personas/telefonia/amigo/paquetes-end/paquetes-amigo-sin-limite here]. Recharging Telcel can be also done in an Oxxo. Cheaper providers unfortunately may not be worth the hassle due to slow internet and unreliable connection. Using a Mexican SIM card is often far cheaper than what hotels will charge you for outgoing calls and incoming calls may be free under certain schemes. Mexico operates on the same GSM frequency as the United States, 1900&nbsp;MHz. There's also 4G LTE, with 5G expected to be deployed in the future. Many of which are the same frequencies as in the US. There is a wireless internet connection in almost every restaurant in the big cities. If you're staying for over a week and don't have an unlocked phone, it might be a good idea to buy a cheap handset and a prepaid card. Some areas have only a few internet cafes; in others, they are plentiful. Most of the internet cafes offer calls to the US for a better rate than a payphone, usually via VoIP. You can call from public phones using ''tarjetas ladatel'' (prepaid telephone cards), bought at magazine stalls. Cards can be purchased in M$30, 50 or 100 denominations. The rate to call the US is roughly equivalent to US$0.50 per minute. Beware these are different than tarjetas ''amigo, viva,'' or ''unefon'' (these are only for cellphones). Ladatel cards are becoming increasingly difficult to find and use because public pay phones are an endangered species. While they worked great in 2002, they're seldom useful in 2022. Cell phones are the way to go today. ==Go next== ===To Belize=== There are bus services available from [[Chetumal]] to [[Belmopan]]. ===To Guatemala=== This route is not used by many and still has a touch of adventure: Over Tenosique, La Palma (near Tenosique), by boat on the river Rio San Pedro to [[El Naranjo]] in [[Guatemala]]. Stay firm when negotiating over the price. Absolutely important: Make sure you get your passport stamped before you leave El Naranjo, or you might catch one of the rare buses back and take a walk through the jungle, as the emigration office is partway up the river between the Mexican border and the village. ===To the United States=== The U.S. generally requires a passport for entry. A few express ID cards and trusted traveler cards are also acceptable. U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking entry or reentry by land or sea may use an Enhanced Driver License in place of a passport. U.S. permanent residents need their permanent resident card and may need the passport from their home country. Foreign nationals entering the United States without a permanent resident stamp, including those on the Visa Waiver Program, typically receive an I-94 Arrival-Departure Record or I-94W Visa Waiver Arrival-Departure Record upon arrival in the United States. So long as the I-94 has not expired, you can use it to re-enter the United States with your passport; however, if you hand it in upon exit, you will need to obtain a new card if your visa allows another entry or, if on the Visa Waiver Program, pay a fee of about US$6 to reenter the United States. Unless you are not going to return to the United States, '''keep your I-94 when leaving the [[United States]]''' or you will have a difficult time getting back in, and if your visa is limited to a certain number of entries, you may need to use another entry. Visa Waiver participants cannot reset the 90-day counter unless they leave North America, so ducking into Mexico will not allow you another 90 days. However, it can be reset by travelling, for example, to any Central American country or to Colombia. {{geo|21|-100|zoom=5}} {{isPartOf|North America}} {{outlinecountry}} {{related|Driving_in_Mexico}} i2t5wqymq2iqla9l578xyai116grooe 5091304 5091303 2025-07-11T10:22:57Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091304 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Teotihuacan Wikivoyage banner.jpg|pgname=Mexico|caption=Teotihuacan}} {{other uses}} '''Mexico''' ([[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]: ''México'') is known for its [[Mexican cuisine|cuisine]], art, archaeology, history, pyramids, music, museums, haciendas, 9,600 km (6,000 mi) of shoreline, superb architecture, weather from snow-capped mountains in the Sierras to rainy jungles in the southeast and desert in the northwest, many golf courses and excellent fishing. Along with [[Chile]], [[Colombia]], and [[Peru]], this once-poor nation is one of the ''Pacific Pumas'', seeing significant economic growth and improved infrastructure during the 21st century. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Mexico regions map.png | regionmaptext=Mexico's regions | regionmapsize=401px | region1name=[[Baja California]] | region1color=#65b99f | region1items=[[Baja California (state)|Baja California]], [[Baja California Sur]] | region1description=The vast western peninsula, stretching 1,200 km from Tijuana on the US border to Cabo in the south. A land of deserts and undiscovered beaches. One of the biggest whale migrations takes place here every year from December to April. Also includes the far-off-shore [[Guadalupe Island]]. | region2name=[[Northern Mexico]] | region2color=#b9ad60 | region2items=[[Chihuahua (state)|Chihuahua]], [[Coahuila]], [[Durango (state)|Durango]], [[Nuevo León]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Sonora]], [[Tamaulipas]] | region2description=The expansive deserts and mountains of the border states; mostly ignored by tourists. Culturally and physically a world away from the tropical south. Includes the bustling industrial city of Monterrey, Mexico's 3rd largest and most affluent, and Copper Canyon, the country's only railroad passing through gorges and indigenous villages. | region3name=[[Bajío|The Bajío]] | region3color=#a463ad | region3items=[[Aguascalientes (state)|Aguascalientes]], [[Guanajuato (state)|Guanajuato]], [[Zacatecas (state)|Zacatecas]], [[San Luis Potosi (state)|San Luis Potosí]], [[Querétaro (state)|Querétaro]] | region3description=The former colonial heartland, this is one of Mexico's most historic regions filled with well-preserved colonial towns that grew rich from silver mining. Includes [[San Miguel de Allende]] and [[Guanajuato]] amongst other lesser known towns. | region4name=[[Central Mexico]] | region4color=#a95858 | region4items=[[Hidalgo]], [[Mexico City]], [[Mexico State]], [[Morelos]], [[Puebla (state)|Puebla]], [[Tlaxcala (state)|Tlaxcala]], [[Veracruz (state)|Veracruz]] | region4description=Mexico City, always the political, cultural and economic center of the country with a sophisticated urban core and a huge urban sprawl surrounding it. Also includes the awesome ruins of Teotihuacan, the historic city of Puebla and Veracruz, one of the country's most overlooked regions. | region5name=[[Pacific Coast (Mexico)|Pacific Coast]] | region5color=#73abab | region5items=[[Colima (state)|Colima]], [[Guerrero]], [[Jalisco]], [[Michoacan]], [[Nayarit]], [[Oaxaca (state)|Oaxaca]] | region5description=Tropical beaches on Mexico's southern coast; Jalisco the birthplace of mariachi and Tequila; Guadalajara, the nation's second largest city; and the Oaxacan highlands, famous for their distinct cuisine. | region6name=[[Yucatán and the South]] | region6color=#67a864 | region6items=[[Campeche (state)|Campeche]], [[Chiapas]], [[Quintana Roo]], [[Tabasco]], [[Yucatán]] | region6description=Jungle and impressive Mayan archaeological sites, along with the Caribbean and Gulf coast with well-known resorts like Tulum and Cancun. The colonial city of Merida and the jungle ruins of Palenque. Geographically isolated from the rest of the country, part of Central America (the dividing line being the Isthmus of Tehuantepec), it is culturally closer to Guatemala and Belize than the rest of Mexico, where Mayan culture is very much alive. }} ==Cities== {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#65b99f|title=[[Baja California]]|wikidata=Q58731,Q46508}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b9ad60|title=[[Northern Mexico]]|wikidata=Q655,Q53079,Q79918,Q15282,Q80252,Q46422,Q80007}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a463ad|title=[[Bajío|The Bajío]]|wikidata=Q79952,Q46475,Q80269,Q78980,Q79754}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a95858|title=[[Central Mexico]]|wikidata=Q80903,Q1489,Q82112,Q66117,Q79923,Q82681,Q60130}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#73abab|title=[[Pacific Coast (Mexico)|Pacific Coast]]|wikidata=Q61309,Q60158,Q13160,Q79861,Q79920,Q34110}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#67a864|title=[[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]|wikidata=Q80908,Q60123,Q80245,Q80914,Q60176}} {{Mapframe|22.53|-102.55|zoom=4}} [[File:Plaza de la Constitucion Ciudad de Mexico City.jpg|thumbnail|Plaza de la Constitución, also known as Zocalo, Mexico City]] <includeonly>THIS LIST SHOULD ONLY INCLUDE 9 CITIES - DO NOT ADD OR REPLACE CITIES WITHOUT FIRST USING DISCUSSION</includeonly> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mexico City]]|wikidata=Q1489}} – Capital of the republic, one of the three largest cities in the world, and a sophisticated urban hub with a 700-year history. In Mexico City, you will find everything from parks, Aztec ruins, colonial architecture, museums, to nightlife and shopping. <!-- As of November 2021 there are travel warnings for Acapulco and the whole state. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Acapulco]]|wikidata=Q81398}} - A sophisticated urban beach setting known for its top-notch nightlife, elegant dining, and nightmarish traffic. Many of the older (pre-1990s) concrete structures have suffered tropical decay.--> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cancún]]|wikidata=Q8969}} – One of the world's most popular and famous beaches, known for its clear Caribbean waters, its lively party atmosphere, and its wealth of recreational facilities. During the U.S. college Spring Break (mid-Feb to the end of March) it is noted for drinking, sunburns, and debauchery. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Guadalajara]]|wikidata=Q9022}} – A traditional city, capital of [[Jalisco]] state, and the home of mariachi music and tequila. Guadalajara is blessed with perpetual spring weather and its colonial downtown is graceful and sophisticated. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mazatlan]]|wikidata=Q40194}} – Lively Pacific coast town, Mazatlan is a shipping port, a transportation hub with ferries to Baja California, and a beach resort destination with miles of sandy shore. It is a popular U.S. college Spring Break destination due to its variety of affordable lodging options. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Monterrey]]|wikidata=Q81033}} – A large modern city that is the commercial and industrial hub of Northern Mexico. Monterrey enjoys a dry, mountainous setting and is known for its high-quality educational and transportation infrastructure. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[San Luis Potosi]]|wikidata=Q204271}} – A colonial city in central Mexico that was once an important silver producer, but today, relies on manufacturing for its economic base. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taxco]]|wikidata=Q990095}} – In central Mexico west of Cuernavaca, this steep mountain town was once a major silver producer, and now has a strong place in the trade of decorative silver, from cheap fittings to the most elegant jewelry and elaborate castings. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tijuana]]|wikidata=Q124739}} – Mexico's busiest border crossing for pedestrians and private vehicles, and a long-time bargain Mecca for southern Californians due to its proximity to [[San Diego]]. ==Other destinations== [[File:Barranca del Cobre-El Divisadero17-10-2005CIMG3344.jpg|thumbnail|The moon is rising over Copper Canyon]] <!--This section is to include only destinations that are NOT cities/towns.--> * {{marker|name=[[Copper Canyon]]|wikidata=Q674485}} (Barrancas del Cobre) – An exotic destination for travelers looking for a unique remote adventure! An awesome mountain rail ride -- one of the greatest in the world -- takes you upwards over 2,440 m (8000 feet) on the CHEPE, the Chihuahua al Pacifico Railway. Hiking, horseback riding, birding, and Tarahumara Indians. Copper Canyon, the Sierra Madre and the Chihuahuan desert of Mexico. This area is designed for adventurous individuals who will tolerate some rough travel to get to their points of interest (although the famous train ride isn't demanding at all). Copper Canyon, a magnificent remote wilderness is not likely ever to become a mass market destination. * {{marker|name='''Sea of Cortez''' (Gulf of California)|wikidata=Q132811}} – See whale birthings, swim with dolphins, and sea kayak in the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez, along the eastern coast of Baja California, near La Paz. National Geographic says the sunsets at [[San Carlos (Mexico)|San Carlos]] are some of the most spectacular in the world. * {{marker|name=[[Monarch Butterfly Reserves]]|wikidata=Q852546}} – Protected natural areas in the highlands of the state of Michoacán. Millions of butterflies come to the area between November and March of each year, although numbers have declined sharply. This is a {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Chiapas|Sumidero Canyon]]|wikidata=Q60123}} – From docks on the Rio Grijalva (the only major river within Mexico) near [[Tuxtla Gutiérrez]] in Chiapas state, tour launches take you into this steep-walled [[Mexico national parks|National Park]]. You'll likely see vast flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterfowl, as well as crocodiles. * {{marker|name=[[Mexico national parks]]}} - Mexico has 67 national parks; these include protected natural areas and national monuments and historical sites ===Archaeological sites=== [[File:Palace at Palenque.jpg|thumbnail|Palenque]] * {{marker|name=[[Chichen Itza]]|wikidata=Q5859}} – Majestic Mayan city, declared a {{unesco}} in 1988 and was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. * {{marker|name=[[Ek Balam]]|wikidata=Q988570}} – A reconstructed Mayan site, famous for its unique decorated stucco and stone-carved temples that you can climb. * {{marker|name=[[El Tajín]]|wikidata=Q753895}} – In the state of Veracruz near the town of Papantla. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Monte Alban]]|wikidata=Q464899}} – In the state of Oaxaca, a Zapotec site dating from about 500 BC. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Palenque]]|wikidata=Q181427}} – Mayan city in the state of Chiapas, Palenque famous for its elaborate paintings. Also well known for having the largest tract of rainforest in Mexico located in the same area. * {{marker|name=[[Teotihuacan]]|wikidata=Q172613}} – An enormous pre-Columbian site with several large pyramids near Mexico City. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Tulum]]|wikidata=Q277408}} – Mayan coastal city with spectacular Caribbean vistas. Dates from late Mayan period. * {{marker|name=[[Uxmal]]|wikidata=Q213232}} – Impressive Mayan city-state in the Puuc Region, declared a {{unesco}} in 1996. ===Small towns=== The Mexican government has designated more than 100 scenic small towns as '''[[Pueblos Mágicos]]'''. States can apply to have towns added to the carefully curated list, but they must provide sites of genuine tourist value (historical or cultural) and guarantee adequate levels of tourism infrastructure. All Pueblos Magicos are within a few hours drive of a major city that has good airline connections. Some of the Pueblos Magicos (such as [[Tequila]]) are well-known and quite popular. Most are off the beaten path and offer rich opportunities for quiet exploration. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMexico.png}} Mexico, the '''United Mexican States''' (Spanish: ''Estados Unidos Mexicanos''), is one of the most visited countries in the world. Much of the tourist industry is centered around the beach resorts as well as the ''altiplano'' in the central part of the country. Visiting the northern interior allows visitors to get off the beaten path a bit. U.S. American tourists tend to predominate on the [[Baja California]] peninsula and the more modernized beach resorts ([[Cancún]], [[Puerto Vallarta]]), while European tourists congregate around the smaller resort areas in the south like [[Playa del Carmen]] and colonial towns [[San Cristobal de las Casas]]. Canadians often favor smaller beach resorts like [[Huatulco]] or [[Ixtapa]]. ===Climate=== Mexico uses the [[Metric and Imperial equivalents|metric system]] for all measurements. All weather forecasts are in Celsius (°C). ==== Central and southern Mexico==== April is already the hottest month, especially at the coast and on the Yucatán peninsula. Towns which aren't that hot in April and during the summer are [[Mexico City]], [[Toluca]]/[[Metepec]], [[San Cristobal de las Casas]], [[Pachuca]] and [[Zacatecas]]. Hurricanes can be common in the coastal cities specially those near the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. ====Northern Mexico ==== It gets rather cold during the winter except on the coast. There is sometimes snow in certain places like the Sierra Madre of Chihuahua, Durango, Coahuila, Nuevo León and northern Tamaulipas. Northern Mexico gets very hot during the summer with sudden violent storms in the afternoon, with heavy rain and hail. The temperatures during the day can exceed 39°C (100°F). Less hot during the summer is Tijuana. ===Landscape=== [[File:Citlalepetl2.JPG|thumbnail|Pico de Orizaba or Citlaltépetl is Mexico's highest mountain]] High, rugged mountains; low coastal plains; high plateaus; temperate plains with grasslands and Mezquite trees in the northeast, desert and even more rugged mountains in the northwest, tropical rainforests in the south and southeast [[Chiapas]], [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]] semiarid in places like [[Aguascalientes]], [[San Luis Potosí]] and temperate coniferous and deciduous forests in the central part of the country [[Mexico City]], [[Toluca]]. === Holidays === Actual non-working days may shift to the Monday before the holiday, so check an up-to-date calendar. Government offices are closed nationwide on official holidays and on election days. {| class="wikitable" !Date !Name !Things to know !Official? |- |January 1 |New Year's Day (''Año Nuevo'') | |official |- |January 6 |Epiphany (''Día de los Reyes Magos'') |Celebrating arrival of the Three Wise Men to see and bring gifts to the baby Jesus |not official |- |February 2 |Candlemas (''Día de la Candelaria'') |Catholic holiday related to Christmas |not official |- |First Monday of February |Constitution Day |For the events of 1917 |official |- |February 24 |Flag Day (''Día de la Bandera'') | |not official |- |Monday on or before March 21 |Birth of Benito Juárez |Mexico's first president of indigenous origin. |official |- |March or April |Easter (''Pascua'') |Easter is widely observed nationwide, according to the yearly Catholic calendar (the first Sunday after the first full moon in Spring). | |- |April 30 |Children's Day (''Día del Niño'') | | |- |May 1 |Labor Day (''Día del Trabajo'' ) | |official |- |May 5 |Cinco de Mayo |For the Battle of Puebla against the French army in 1862. Visitors from the U.S. may be surprised to learn that it is not a major holiday in Mexico, and is not much celebrated by locals, except in the [[Puebla (state)|state of Puebla]]. |not official |- |May 10 |Mother's Day |A particularly important family-centric holiday. Some cities hold parades. Offices may be closed, restaurants will be packed full, and mariachi bands will race from one family to the next. If you are visiting someone's home, bring flowers for the mothers and grandmothers. | |- |May 15 |Teacher's Day (''Día del Maestro'') |A day to appreciate schoolteachers. Some schools close and others have special activities. |not official |- |September 1 |Presidential Address Day | | |- |September 15 |Cry of Dolores (''Grito de Dolores'') |A patriotic holiday to celebrate the first event of the Mexican War of Independence in 1810, especially in the city of [[Dolores Hidalgo]] |not official |- |September 16 |Independence Day |Celebrates the start of the 11-year-long fight for the independence from Spain that began in 1810 |official |- |October 12 |Day of the Race (''Día de la Raza'') |Related to Columbus' arrival in the Americas in 1492 |not official |- |November 2 |[[Day of the Dead]](''Día de Muertos'') |The Mexican answer to Halloween celebrates family and friends who have died. Expect sugar candy shaped like skulls and ''pan de muerto'' (a somewhat sweet type of white bread). |not official |- |Third Monday of November |Mexican Revolution Day |For the events of 1910. |official |- |December 12 |Virgin Mary of Guadalupe Day |A Catholic religious holiday, and one of the most important Mexican holidays |not official |- |December 24 |Christmas Eve (''Nochebuena'') |Normally a full non-working day. Usually a family-centered evening. May be preceded by nine days of parties in the evenings, called ''Las Posadas'' ("the inns")''.'' |not official |- |December 25 |Christmas (''Navidad'') | |official |- |December 31 |New Year's Eve |Normally a full non-working day. Expect firecrackers and lots of noise at midnight. |not official |} ===Time=== [[File:Mexico time zones map en.svg|300px|thumbnail|Mexican time zones]] The 24-hour clock system has traditionally been used for time keeping. Today, both the 24-hour clock and the 12-hour clock are commonly used (roughtly equally), though the younger generation seems more inclined to express times using the 12-hour clock. Mexico uses these four time zones: * '''Northwest Zone''' (UTC−8, corresponds to U.S. Pacific Time): [[Baja California (state)]] * '''Pacific Zone''' (UTC−7, corresponds to U.S. Mountain Time): [[Baja California Sur]], [[Chihuahua (state)]], [[Nayarit]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Sonora]] * '''Central Zone''' (UTC−6, corresponds to U.S. Central Time): The rest of the country, except [[Quintana Roo]] * '''Southeastern Zone''' (UTC−5, corresponds to U.S. Eastern Time): [[Quintana Roo]] Most of Mexico is on standard time year round. Daylight savings time is observed only in a few places. Communities on the U.S. border, except in Sonora, observe DST on the U.S. schedule. The state of Baja California also observes DST on the U.S. schedule (but Baja California Sur does not). ===History=== ====Pre-Columbian==== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica}} Among the earliest complex civilizations in Mexico was the '''Olmec''' culture that flourished on the Gulf Coast in 1500 BCE. Olmec culture diffused through Mexico into formative era cultures in Chiapas, Oaxaca and the Valley of Mexico. In Central Mexico the height of the classical period saw the ascendancy of Teotihuacan, which formed a military and commercial empire. It had the largest structures of pyramids built in the pre-Columbian Americas. During the early post-classic Mexico was dominated by '''Toltec culture''', and the lowland '''Maya''' had important areas at Calakmul and Chichen Itza. At the end of the post-Classical period, the '''Aztecs''' built a tributary empire covering most of Central Mexico. The Mesoamerican cultural traditions ended in the 16th century and over the next centuries, Mexican indigenous cultures were under Spanish colonial rule. However, contrary to popular misconceptions neither the Maya nor the Aztec culture ever entirely "disappeared" and to this day many Mexicans trace at least part of their heritage to indigenous roots and language such as Nahuatl and numerous Maya tongues are still spoken by hundreds of thousands or even millions of Mexicans. Indigenous elements are visible even today in loanwords in Mexican Spanish, traditional dress, Mexican cuisine, architecture and even religious observances (nominally "catholic" to varying degrees). The eagle and the snake on a cactus depicted on the Mexican flag, for example, refers to an Aztec legend about the founding of Tenochtitlan, the city that now is Mexico City. ====Colonial and early independence==== {{main|Colonial Mexico}} Mexico remained under Spanish colonial rule until 1821 when it declared independence under the terms of "Plan of Iguala". After the short lived Mexican empire of 1821-1823 (former Spanish general and independence hero Augustin de Iturbide briefly declared himself emperor but was overthrown after two years) Mexico became a republic with a fragile balance of powers between liberals (allied mostly with urban merchants) and conservatives (allied with the church and big landholders) and Antonio López de Santa Anna became president several times while also being overthrown by his opponents several times thus having eight non-consecutive terms as president as well as five "permanent" exiles. ====Independent Mexico==== {{main|Mexican War of Independence}} The early Mexican state was anything but stable. Texas (under the leadership of US-American immigrants who wanted to make Texas a slave-holding state of the US) and Yucatán seceded at several points. Maya rebels fought against both the Yucatán independence movement and the federal government in the so-called "Caste war". After Texas gained ''de facto'' independence a disagreement as to its southern border (the Nueces river as claimed by Mexico or the Rio Grande as claimed by Texas) led to the involvement of the US in a brief war that ended in a devastating defeat for Mexico (the line about the "halls of Montezuma" in the marines' song refers to the presidential palace in Mexico city that was conquered by the US) and the loss of Alta California (now the US state of California), Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico as well as the definite loss of Texas north of the Rio Grande. The ceded territories were rapidly colonized by immigrants from Europe and the eastern United States; see [[Old West]]. ====French intervention and Second Mexican empire==== {{main|Post-Independence Mexico}} In 1861, when president Benito Juarez suspended the payment of Mexico's debt, France decided to invade the country in order to regain some or all of its money. This was only possible because the United States, which had declared in its Monroe Doctrine that it wouldn't tolerate any European intervention in the sovereign states of the Americas, started its [[American Civil War|Civil War]] that same year. After overthrowing the government (though Mexican resistance against the occupiers never ceased) the French installed a Habsburg prince as emperor Maximilian I to act as their puppet. While the Mexican monarchy had some support among conservatives its days were numbered when the French troops were withdrawn after the end of the American Civil war, and in 1867, Maximilian was executed by firing squad. Cinco de Mayo, which in the US is often mistaken to be "Mexican independence day", is celebrated in remembrance of the battle of [[Puebla]] that occurred during the French occupation and was decisively won by Mexican republican forces. ====Benito Juárez==== [[File:Estatua de Benito Juárez.jpg|thumb|Statue of Benito Juárez in [[Hidalgo]]]] Benito Juárez was the first president of indigenous descent in all of Latin America and is one very few figures that is still almost exclusively seen as a positive figure in Mexican history. He was president from 1858 to 1864 and again from 1867 to his death in 1872. His saying "el respeto al derecho ajeno es la paz" (respect for the rights of others is peace) is still frequently quoted. ====Porfirio Díaz==== Porfirio Díaz, a general during the French intervention rose to power shortly after the death of Juárez and ruled Mexico from 1876 to 1911. While initially willing and able to reform and modernize the country, the sheer length of his reign and his corruption led to a lot of unhappiness about his government and in 1911 the Mexican revolution broke out to unseat him from power, but it soon devolved into factional fighting between various claimants for power and attempts at radical social and economic reform. ====The Mexican Revolution==== {{main|Mexican Revolution}} The Mexican Revolution was a complex civil war and period of political intrigue and treachery. The Revolution started in 1910 with resistance against a blatantly fraudulent election manipulated by Porfirio Díaz. The Revolution really ignited into full-scale war when the elected president (Madero) was assassinated by Díaz loyalists. Several factions had different complaints about Díaz and his corrupt, never-ending dictatorship. Groups loyal to Venustiano Carranza wanted constitutional reforms. Groups loyal to Emiliano Zapata wanted land reforms and rights for the indigenous. Other groups demanded an end to resource giveaways to foreign industrial interests, while others demanded an end to excessive power of the Catholic church. The groups eventually coalesced behind the Constitutionalists and stable government was restored by 1920. ====Under the PRI==== {{main|Modern Mexico}} Once the dust of the revolution had settled the Revolutionary Institutional Party (PRI [pronounced /pree/] for its Spanish name) became the dominant political force and all presidents before the early 1990s were members of the PRI. They did not establish a one party state and other parties were still legal and participated in elections. However, the success of the PRI candidate (especially at the federal level) was almost always a given. As such, political power struggles mostly took place within the PRI, with more conservative or left wing factions gaining the upper hand from time to time. In 1988, during a presidential election that was actually close for the first time in decades, a computer that counted the votes supposedly crashed. The words with which this was announced "se cayó el sistema" are noted for their ambiguity as they can mean either "the computer broke down" or "the (political) system fell". Nonetheless, according to the official result (which was and still is doubted by many), the PRI candidate won a six-year term in office just narrowly surpassing the 50% threshold needed to avoid a runoff election. In 2000 the PRI finally lost its first presidential election when Vicente Fox of the conservative National Action Party (PAN) won a narrow victory in a three-way race. In 2006 the PAN won again with Felipe Calderon being elected president but in 2012 the PRI returned to power with Enrique Peña Nieto, who promised to end the drug war being elected to the presidency. Whether this proves temporary or the PRI has indeed regained its once dominant status, remains yet to be seen. ====Mexico today==== {{main|Modern Mexico}} Despite problems such as corruption and the drug war in the North (with some areas under ''de facto'' control of different cartels), Mexico has grown steadily, and there have been democratic multiparty elections with peaceful transition of power. A fairly stable three party system has emerged: the PAN (conservative) and PRI (centrist, catch all, sometimes leftist) have each won the presidency several times and the PRD (left of the PRI) has been a serious contender in almost all elections. The drug war is ongoing and some parts of the country are not entirely safe, but the situation has bettered a lot after the 2000s. Generally the North with cities such as Ciudad Juarez notorious for their violence is more dangerous than the south and Yucatán is among the safest regions in Latin America. For more on the effects of the drug war see the stay safe section of this article and the individual region articles. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) assumed power on December 1, 2018, after waging a populist, anti-corruption campaign and winning the 2018 election with more than a 30% margin over his next closest opponent. He is the leader of the center-left National Regeneration Movement (MORENA). Having had a reputation as a leftist firebrand in the past, AMLO has moderated his politics in order to appeal to a wider share of the electorate, though he remains a solidly left-leaning, populist politician. Under his leadership, Mexico has served as a moderator in wider Latin American politics, for example, in the Venezuelan and Bolivian crises, while also navigating relations with the United States government over trade and migrant issues. In 2024, Mexico elected Claudia Sheinbaum as its first female and first Jewish president to succeed AMLO. ===Visitor information === *[https://visitmexico.com/eng/home-2 Visit Mexico] website ==Get in== {{cautionbox| Mexico charges M$390 (2016) per person that has spent more than 7 days (inclusive) in the country, e.g., 1st to 7th is 7 days. Payable on exit whatever the mode of transportation. On entrance, officials may say that 7 days is non-inclusive but you will find out otherwise when you exit the country. If you flew into Mexico on a commercial flight, the cost of your plane ticket already included the tourism tax and you absolutely do ''not'' need to pay it again upon exiting. You will need to prove to the border officials that you have already paid, by showing the following: #Your FMM card you received upon arrival, and #An itemized receipt from your flight purchase showing the Tourism Tax Certain foreign nationals who can enter Mexico with only a passport and FMM Card, and stay up to 180 days as tourists (30 days for business travelers) are no longer granted the full 180 days by default as is it was in the past. Always check your passport stamp and FMM card upon arrival to determine how many days are granted before walking away from the immigration counter. Ask the immigration officer if you cannot read the handwriting to be sure how many days you are granted to stay in the country. NEVER assume that you are granted the full 180 days or they will automatically tell you if you are given less than 180 days. You can arbitrarily be granted any number of days from 3 to the full 180 days depending on the whim of the immigration officer who can also check for an onward ticket out of Mexico, hotel reservations, proof of funds, etc. Travelers have reported to have been detained for over-staying the less than 180 day time allotted to them when they entered and it is uncertain how long the travelers are/will be detained (at any length of time) before deportation out of Mexico. The immigration authorities and military do set up random checkpoints in the interior to stop passing traffic and check the travelers' ID cards (Mexican nationals) and the visa status of foreign nationals.}} ===Visa and other entrance requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Mexico.png|thumb|450px|Visa policy of Mexico]] [[File:Mexico entry.png|thumb|Mexican entry stamp]] According to the [http://www.sre.gob.mx/english/ Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Secretaria de Relaciones Exteriores)]{{Dead link|date=October 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, certain foreign nationals who intend to stay in Mexico fewer than 180 days for the purpose of tourism or 30 days for business can fill out a tourist card at the border or upon landing at an airport after presenting a valid passport, for US$22. If arriving via air, it is included in the price of the fare. This service is available to citizens of [[Andorra]], [[Argentina]], [[Aruba]], [[Australia]], [[Austria]], [[Bahamas]], [[Barbados]], [[Belgium]], [[Belize]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[Colombia]], [[Costa Rica]], [[Cyprus]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Denmark]], [[Estonia]], [[Finland]], [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Great Britain]], [[Greece]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Hungary]], [[Ireland]], [[Iceland]], [[Israel]], [[Italy]], [[Jamaica]], [[Japan]], [[Latvia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Lithuania]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Macau]], [[Malaysia]], [[Malta]], [[Marshall Islands]], [[Micronesia]], [[Monaco]], [[Netherlands]], [[New Zealand]], [[Norway]], [[Palau]], [[Panama]], [[Paraguay]], [[Peru]], [[Poland]], [[Portugal]], [[Puerto Rico]], [[Romania]], [[San Marino]], [[Singapore]], [[Slovakia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Spain]], [[South Korea]], [[Sweden]], [[Switzerland]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[United States of America|United States]] and [[Uruguay]] (see official list [https://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/Paises_No_Visa/en.html here]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}). Permanent residents of the United States, Canada, Japan, United Kingdom, and Schengen area countries are also eligible for visas on arrival regardless of citizenship. The Mexican tourist card is a ''Forma Migratoria Múltiple'' (Multiple Immigration Form), or FMM. It has a perforation that divides the card into two parts, of which the right side asks for some of the same information requested on the left side. At entry, after reviewing your passport and filled-out FMM, the immigration officer will stamp your passport and the FMM, separate the FMM along the perforation and give the right side of the FMM back to you with your passport. The paper tourist card is being phased out. At many ports of entry (including [[Benito Juárez International Airport|Mexico City's international airport]]), you will not have to complete a paper form. Rather, the immigration officer will stamp your passport. A digital version of the tourist card (FMMd, ''Forma Migratoria Múltiple Digital'') will be generated for you, which can be downloaded from [https://www.inm.gob.mx/spublic/portal/inmex.html the website]. If you have a paper FMM, keep it with your passport at all times. It is your responsibility to make sure the right side of the FMM is returned to the Mexican government at time of departure so that the bar code can be scanned, thus showing that you left the country on time. For example, if you are flying with Aeromexico, they will ask for your passport and FMM at check-in for your flight home, then staple your FMM to your boarding pass. You are expected to then hand the boarding pass together with your FMM to the gate agent as you board your flight. If you lose your FMM during your visit to Mexico, you may be subject to substantial delays and fines before you can leave the country. [https://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/Inicio_Autorizacion_Electronica/en.html Electronic Authorization System (SAE, Autorización Electrónica)]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for travelling to Mexico is available on the Internet for nationals from [[Russia]], [[Turkey]], and [[Ukraine]]. Russians, Ukrainians, and Turkish citizens with permanent residency or a valid visa to Canada, the US, Japan, the UK, or any Schengen country don't need an SAE. Other nationalities must contact a Mexican consulate in order to find out the requirements for citizens of their country, and may have to apply for and obtain a visa in advance of travel. If you are in need of other information, Mexico has diplomatic offices in the following cities around the world. The consulates in the USA are typically open for business to non-citizens (by telephone or in-person) only from 08:30 to 12:30. If you cross the border via road, do not expect the authorities to automatically signal you to fill out your paperwork. You will have to locate the border office yourself. The immigration officer at your point of entry into Mexico can request that you demonstrate that you have sufficient economic solvency. The immigration officer can demand a round trip ticket. Be advised if you only booked a one-way ticket to Mexico: The airline may want to see a ticket that carries you out of Mexico, especially when flying from an equally or less developed country than Mexico – also if your passport is from a highly industrialized nation. It could be that the airline wants to see that onward ticket as "early" as at the gate, where you may not have enough time to buy one. So have at least an onward ticket from specialized websites for around US$10 (Nov 2021) ready when heading to the airport for your flight for Mexico. If you do not intend to travel past the "border zone" and your stay does not exceed three days, U.S. and Canadian nationals require only a proof of citizenship. Reentry into the United States generally requires a passport, but a U.S. or Canadian Enhanced Drivers License (or Enhanced Photo ID) or U.S. passport card is acceptable for reentry by land or sea. ===By plane=== [[File:Fila Aeroméxico.JPG|thumbnail|Aeromexico planes at Benito Juarez International Airport]] ====From the United States and Canada==== There are hundreds of daily flights linking Mexico to cities large and small throughout North America. This includes legacy carriers such as Air Canada, Aeromexico, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta, and discount airlines such as JetBlue, Spirit, WestJet, and Southwest Airlines. Also to be considered are the Mexican discount carriers '''Volaris''', which operate from several major US cities through their hubs in [[Mexico City]] and [[Guadalajara]], and '''Viva Aerobus''', which also operates from several major US cities through hubs in [[Mexico City]] and [[Monterrey]]. '''United Airlines'''/'''United Express''' fly to many smaller market Mexican cities and resort areas, including Aguascaliente, Chihuahua, Ciudad de Carmen, Durango, Huatulco, Leon/Guanajuato, Oaxaca, Merida, San Luis Potosi, Torreon, Tampico, Veracruz and Villahermosa. As in the United States and Canada, you will have to clear immigration ''and'' customs at your first Mexican port of entry, even though that airport may not be your final destination. (For example, many trips on Aeromexico will involve connecting through its Mexico City hub.) You will then have to re-check your bags and go through security again to proceed to your next flight segment. ====From Australia or New Zealand==== Fly from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne or Auckland (NZ) direct to Los Angeles on American Airlines, Delta, Qantas, and United. Air New Zealand offers one-stop air service from Australia and non-stop air service from Auckland to Los Angeles. Hawaiian Airlines and Air Tahiti Nui offer one- or two-stop air service to Los Angeles from Australia and New Zealand. Many airlines continue from [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles]] to Mexico including AeroMexico/Aeromexico Connect, Alaska Airlines, Volaris, United and Virgin America, some of which have interline or alliance ticketing and baggage check through. More options are available if connecting through another US city. Also, make sure to have a good look at visas beforehand – even just for transit you will need something for the US, and if you get a visa waiver, they treat Mexico as part of the US, meaning if you stay longer than 90 days in Mexico, you will need to travel further south before returning to the US. ====From Europe==== Most commercial airlines link Mexico directly from Europe. There are direct flights to [[Benito Juarez International Airport|Mexico City]] ({{IATA|MEX}}) and [[Cancun#By plane|Cancun]] ({{IATA|CUN}}) from Paris ({{IATA|CDG}}), [[London#By plane|London]] ({{IATA|LON}}), Madrid ({{IATA|MAD}}), [[Schiphol Airport|Amsterdam]] ({{IATA|AMS}}), and [[Frankfurt airport|Frankfurt]] ({{IATA|FRA}}). Some carriers will serve both Mexico City and Cancun while others will only serve one and not the other (usually only to Cancun such as those from Russia and Italy). Additional flights to Cancun from Europe may only be available as charters and some may operate during the winter months (December–February) only. It is always worth to compare flight offers from air carriers and charter companies who can bring you to Mexico City or Cancun via many European hubs. The flight duration from those cities is always approximately 11 hours. ===By train=== From the United States to Mexico the nearest '''[http://www.amtrak.com Amtrak]''' stations are in [[San Diego#By train|San Diego]], [[Yuma#By train|Yuma]], [[Del Rio#By rail|Del Rio]] and [[El Paso#By train|El Paso]]. The frequent ''[http://www.pacificsurfliner.com Pacific Surfliner]'' connects San Diego from [[San Luis Obispo]] via [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]]; while the ''[http://www.amtrak.com/sunset-limited-train Sunset Limited]'' and ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/texas-eagle-train.html Texas Eagle]'' pass by Yuma, El Paso and Del Rio between [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Antonio]]. In San Antonio the ''Texas Eagle'' continues northwards towards [[Chicago]] while the ''Sunset Limited'' continues east to [[New Orleans#By train|New Orleans]]. Amtrak trains do not cross the border into Mexico so passengers continue to the border by local public transportation or by taxi from the Amtrak station. The '''Tren Maya''' has a station along the [[Belize]] border in the city of [[Chetumal]]. Buses are available there for onward travel to [[Mérida (Mexico)|Merida]], [[Cancún]] or other destinations in the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]. The Tren Maya also has two stops near the [[Guatemala]] border (at El Triunfo and at Boca del Cerro), but neither have scheduled transportation to any Guatemalan destinations. ===By car=== [[File:SanYsidroBorderCrossingByPhilKonstantin.jpg|thumbnail|Crossing into Mexico from the U.S. near Tijuana]] American automobile insurance is not accepted in Mexico; however, it is easy to obtain short-term or long-term tourist policies that include the mandatory liability coverage, theft and accident coverage for your vehicle, and often, legal assistance coverage. Should you decide to drive to Mexico, the [http://www.sct.gob.mx/ Transport and Communications Secretariat website] has free downloadable road maps. Foreign-plated vehicles must obtain necessary permits before being allowed into the interior of Mexico. This can be done at the border checkpoints by showing your vehicle title or registration, as well as immigration documents and a valid credit card. It is now possible to apply for your vehicle import permit online. Vehicle permits will only be issued to the registered owner of the vehicle, so the papers will have to be in the name of the applicant. The Baja California peninsula and the northern part of the State of Sonora do not require a permit. Driving a '''rental car''' from the United States into Mexico is possible with some of the large multinational companies, but the process is rather cumbersome. You will need to inform your car rental company in advance and purchase additional Mexican insurance (since U.S. car insurance does not cover Mexico), and you cannot drive beyond the border region into the interior of Mexico. You also cannot drop off a U.S. rental car in Mexico, and must return to the U.S. to drop it off. In the reverse direction, Mexican rental cars are usually not permitted to be driven into the U.S. Due to the contraband crossing the US-Mexico border (drugs and illegal immigration into the US, drug money and weapons into Mexico), expect long delays and thorough searches of vehicles when crossing the border. At some of the busiest crossings, expect a waiting time of 1–3 hours. ===By bus=== ''See main article, [[Bus travel in Mexico]]''. Buses are the most widely used transportation system in Mexico with routes going to all parts of the country. Long-distance buses are very comfortable and affordable. All border crossings have bus stations where buses can take you to interior cities, often to large bus terminals providing connections to virtually any major city or tourist destination. From the southern United States, many companies provide trans-border service with modern, comfortable buses that cross the border. You can take a bus from [[Chicago]] all the way to [[Mexico City]], though some companies will only take you to the border region where you can connect to a domestic Mexican bus company for onward travel to the interior of Mexico. A list of these companies is in [[Bus travel in Mexico]]. Buses are also available from Central America into Mexico. These buses usually go to [[Tapachula]], where you can connect to domestic Mexican bus companies for onward travel to the interior. Buses from [[Belize City]] will take you to [[Chetumal]] where you can connect to a Mexican bus or to the Tren Maya for onward rail journeys. ===By boat=== * Border crossing from [[Guatemala]]. * Cruise ships from the United States. ==Get around== Travelling in Mexico is most practical by bus, car, or air. Passenger transport by train is possible in some areas. most extensively in the Yucatán Peninsula, with its modern ''Tren Maya'' service. The '''Chihuahua del Pacifico''' railroad is one of the most scenic railroads in the world, passing through the Copper Canyon, and departing from Los Mochis on the Pacific coast, or Creel in the east. They cross each other roughly midways at '''Divisadero and Barrancas''' Copper Canyon stations at an altitude of 2100&nbsp;m (7000&nbsp;ft). ===By car=== {{main|Driving in Mexico}} [[File:Highway120PinalAmoles.JPG|thumbnail|Highway 120 passing through the village of Pinal de Amoles]] Due to a government scheme in the early 1990s to create infrastructure, the best roads are toll roads. Toll roads can be relatively costly but are much faster and better maintained. First-class buses generally travel by toll roads (and the toll is included in the ticket price). US vehicle insurance is not valid in Mexico. Mexican auto insurance has been required since 2018; if you have even a minor accident without insurance, you could land in jail. [http://www.mexipass.com/ MexiPass] and AAA offer Mexican auto insurance. When traveling on Mexican roads, especially near the borders with the United States and Guatemala, one will probably encounter several checkpoints operated by the Mexican Army searching for illegal weapons and drugs. If you are coming from the United States, you may not be used to this, and it can be intimidating. However, these are rarely a problem for honest people. Simply do what the soldiers tell you to do, and treat them with respect. The best way to show respect when entering a checkpoint is to turn your music down, lift sunglasses from your face, and be prepared to roll your window down. They should treat you with respect as well, and they usually do. If you are asked to unpack any part of your vehicle, do so without complaint. It is their right to make you completely unload in order for them to inspect your cargo. Tourists are often warned about travelling on roads at night. Although ''bandidos'' are rare in more metropolitan areas, err on the side of caution in more rural areas. The best bet is to drive during only daylight hours. Cattle, dogs, and other animals also can appear on the roadway unexpectedly, so if you do have to drive at night, be very cautious. If possible, follow a bus or truck that seems to be driving safely. Foreign drivers' licenses are recognized and recommended. Speeding tickets are common, and to ensure your presence at the hearing, the officer may choose to keep your license. He is within his rights to do so. Beware though, police officers are known to keep driver's licenses until they are given a bribe. At petrol (gas) stations, make sure the pump is zeroed out before the attendant begins pumping your gas so that you don't end up paying more than you should. Good maps are invaluable and the Mexico maps included in "North American Road Atlas" books are worse than useless. The Guia Roji maps are particularly good. If you arrive in Mexico by airplane but would like to drive around the country, all major car rental companies are present in Mexico. However, you must know that they operate under a franchise scheme, and therefore their policies and the overall way to do business are very different than those in other countries. Most of the times they will publish prices that may look very attractive, but may not include insurance, taxes and other mandatory fees, the best thing to do is call in advance to find out the final price to pay. There are some local companies which do include all bells and whistles in their rates, [https://www.veico.com/ Veico Car Rental]. [https://www.citycarrental.com/ City Car Rental] offers good prices and have rental offices as most major cities in Mexico. Throughout the mainland of North America including the Mexico, traffic moves on the right with most cars being left-hand-drive (as in Belize, Guatemala, and the United States of America). The only areas of North America that do not drive on the right are on some Caribbean Islands. ===By plane=== Major airlines hubs for all or several of the airlines are in [[Benito Juarez International Airport|Mexico City-Benito Juarez Airport]], Mexico City-Santa Lucia Airport (NLU), [[Guadalajara#By plane|Guadalajara]], [[Cancún International Airport]], and [[Monterrey#By plane|Monterrey]]. There are additional point to point services from several other cities. Budget airlines offer competitive fares that rival bus travel over long distances. The low-cost airlines are VivaAerobus and Volaris. The main airlines providing service to over 60 cities within Mexico are: * {{listing | type=listing | name=Aeromexico/Aeromexico Connect | alt= | url=http://www.aeromexico.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 5133-4000 (MX) | tollfree=+1-800-237-6639 (US) | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=It is the 'national' and 'legacy' carrier with hubs in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. It is also a member of the SkyTeam Alliance. }} * {{listing | name=Magnicharters | alt= | url=http://www.magnicharters.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 5678-1000, +52 55 5678-3600 (DF), +52 81 2282-9620, +52 2282-9621 (MTY) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-21 | content=Headquartered in Mexico City, their major hubs are in Monterrey and Mexico City. Primary destinations are resort areas preferred by leisure travelers, such as Cancun or Puerto Vallarta. They also offer flights from Las Vegas and Orlando in the U.S. and from Cancun to Havana, Cuba. }} * {{listing | name=Mexicana | alt= | url=https://www.mexicana.gob.mx/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-11-04 | content=In 2023, the Mexican government resurrected the formerly bankrupt carrier and will operate it as a state airline. Mexicana will initially focus on domestic routes only, serving all major cities and resort areas in Mexico. The airline operates on a hub and spoke model with all flights originating or ending at Mexico City - Aeropuerto Internacional Felipe Angeles (AIFA) ({{IATA|NLU}}) in the northern suburb of Santa Lucia. Additional routes will be added via a second hub at Tulum International Airport ({{IATA|TQO}}) in early 2024. }} * {{listing | name=VivaAerobus | alt= | url=http://www.vivaaerobus.com/mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Low-cost, Ryanair-like airline with hubs in Cancun, Monterrey, Mexico City and Guadalajara and new focus cities in Merida and Puebla, and service from the USA. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Volaris | alt= | url=https://www.volaris.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 1102-8000 | tollfree=+1 855 865-2747 (US) | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Hubs are in Mexico City, Tijuana and Guadalajara with focus cities in Cancun, Monterrey and Leon. They also have an additional hub in San Jose Costa Rica and a focus city in Los Angeles, outside of Mexico. They have services to cities in the U.S., Costa Rica, El Salvador and Nicaragua. }} There are also small airlines operating within certain areas such as: * {{listing | name=Aerus | alt= | url=https://flyaerus.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 811 495 5340 (only WhatsApp) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-07-12 | content=Regional airline based in [[Monterrey]] serving Northern Mexico and the Gulf Coast, including destinations in Tamaulipas, Veracruz, and Tabasco. }} * {{listing | name=Calafia Airlines | alt= | url=https://www.calafiaairlines.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 619 489-1439 (US) | tollfree=01 800 5603949 (MX) | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Operates scheduled flights between cities in the Baja California Peninsula and from the Baja California Peninsula to Chihuahua, Jalisco, Sonora and Sinaloa states. It connects the Baja California Peninsula to Leon (Guanajuato), Monterrey (Nuevo Leon), Mexico City and San Luis Potosi, all in the smaller aircraft. It connects Palenque and Tuxtla Gutierrez (Chiapas) to Mexico City and Cancun. It also offers charters and air taxi services. }} * {{listing | name=Aerotucán | alt= | url=https://www.aerotucan.com.mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 952 502-0840 | tollfree=01800 640-4148 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Flies between Oaxaca City, Ciudad Ixtepec, Huatulco and Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca state in small planes. }} * {{listing | name=Señor Air | alt= | url=https://www.senorair.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-07-24 | content=Small regional carrier based out of [[Los Cabos]] ({{IATA|SJD}}) operating a limited route map with service to mainland destinations in Chihuahua, Sinaloa and Jalisco using Embraer aircraft. }} * {{listing | name=TAR | alt= | url=http://www.tarmexico.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 2629-5272 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Hub in Queretaro with focus cities in Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Puerto Vallarta to several destinations nationwide. Operates Embraer regional jets. }} On the Viva Aerobus fares "Zero" and "Light", you cannot check in earlier than 4 hours and 8 hours before departure respectively. As of Nov 2021, the website and app won't tell you that if you try it earlier. Instead giving you a random error message or telling you to check-in at the airport for additional cost, which is not needed. ===By bus=== ==== Intercity buses==== See main article, [[Bus travel in Mexico]] Long-distance buses are an ideal way to experience Mexico. The executive and first-class buses are very modern, clean, and comfortable with bigger seats and more legroom than the first-class cabin of a modern aircraft. Costs are generally low, with first-class tickets costing only slightly more than a much slower second-class bus. All major cities and tourist destinations have good bus service. ==== City buses ==== Most larger cities have a mix of public bus services and privately run bus services. For example, in [[Mexico City]] there are several bus services that are part of the public Metro transportation including large, modern articulated buses that run in dedicated lanes on major arteries, as well as electric buses and traditional buses through most neighborhood. In the city of [[Monterrey]], there are Metrobuses that operate as part of the city's public transit network, often connecting to the Metrorrey subway/light rail stations. There are also more than a dozen private bus companies, usually providing services to a well-defined section of the city. Using the city buses can be complicated, involving various transfers and sometimes multiple providers. Information about these may be in individual destination articles here, but is more reliable in the [https://moovitapp.com/ Moovit] app (available for iPhone or Android). ==== Colectivos, combis, peseros ==== Many cities in Mexico have privately operated van or small bus services that run along popular routes. These go by various names including ''peseros'', ''colectivos'', ''urbans'', or ''combis''. Whatever you call them, they are sometimes vans and sometimes small buses with varying color codes depending on the city you are in and often identifying the operator or route. Usually the route taken is written on cardboard attached to the windshield or with wet and then dried soap or chalk on the windshield listing the local colonias (neighborhoods) and points of interest (Allende, WalMart, Soriana, malls, hospitals, universities, etc.) the routes are not numbered and the schedules are often informal. When a combi gets full, it leaves and won't pick up passengers along the way until somebody gets off. In some cities the pesero stops at marked bus stops while in others bus stops are uncommon and you are expect to signal the bus to pick you up and drop you off wherever you want. If you don't find a stop button in a pesero; just shout the word "baja!" for it to stop. Fares are cheap and vary from M$5-15 (Feb 2022) approximately. ===By carpooling === You can check, if there are rides offered for your route on Blablacar. Especially between bigger cities the chances are good. In order to see the prices in pesos, you need to (re)install the app and choose Mexican pesos. Prices are about 30-50% less than taking an intercity bus. ===By train=== [[File:Tren maya en Mérida Teya 01.jpg|thumb|Tren Maya]] Intercity trains are slowly making a comeback in Mexico, after a 25-year hiatus. The vast majority of cities are not served but as of 2025 a few lines have opened and there are plans for major expansions over the coming years. * [https://www.trenmaya.gob.mx/ ''Tren Maya''] serves the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]] and the [[Riviera Maya]]. The route goes along the Caribbean coast between [[Cancun]] and [[Chetumal]] at the Belize border. It provides access to [[Merida]] and has stations at archaeological sites like [[Chichen Itza]], [[Edzna]], [[Tulum]], and [[Palenque]]. * [https://www.pasajerosinteroceanico.com.mx/ ''Tren Interoceánico''] runs across the Tehuantepec isthmus between [[Salina Cruz]] on the Pacific Ocean and [[Coatzalcocos]] on the Gulf of Mexico coast. Tren Interoceanico has a line that connects Coatzalcocos to [[Palenque]] where passengers can transfer to the Tren Maya. * ''El Insurgente'' is an intercity train in [[Mexico State]] connecting to the [[Mexico City]] Metro at the Observatorio station. ====Tourist trains==== [[File:Copper Canyon Railway.jpg|thumb|''El Chepe'' through the Copper Canyon]] The most famous tourist train in Mexico is the [https://chepe.mx/en/ ''Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico''] (Chihuahua-Pacific Railway or ''El Chepe'') between [[Los Mochis]], [[Sinaloa]], and the town of [[Creel]], [[Chihuahua]], through the gorgeous [[Copper Canyon]]. In the state of Jalisco there are a couple of lines which travel from the state capital city of [[Guadalajara]] to the nearby tequila distilleries in the small town of Amatitlan on the [https://www.tequilaexpress.mx/ ''Tequila Express''] and to the Jose Cuervo distilleries in the town of [[Tequila]] on the [http://www.josecuervoexpress.com ''Jose Cuervo Express'']. There is also a tourist train that runs from [[Tijuana]] to [[Tecate]] (and back again) on Saturdays. ===By taxi=== Ride-hailing is available in Mexico and the following are the most anticipated providers. There may be destinations where the service is not available due to differences with local cab groups. * {{listing | type=go | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/mexico-city | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content=Works in Mexico City and other cities. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Cabify | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content= }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Didi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content= }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content=Includes three cities. }} Many drivers in Mexico do not like payment by credit card. If you're having trouble hailing a ride, try switching to cash payment. ===By thumb=== One upside of the high petroleum prices is that hitching is beginning to be more common in Mexico again, particularly the rural areas. In areas near big cities, hitching should be more difficult, and is not really advisable for security reasons. However, in village areas, this will be really possible and most likely a nice experience. Since villagers have always had a hard time affording gas, and nowadays many are turning to picking up paying hitchhikers as a way to afford the next trip into town. Baja California, the Sierra Tarahumara and Oaxaca and Chiapas all have good possibilities for the hitchhiker. [[Hitchhiking]] possibilities vary according to region. Mexican culture is often accepting of hitchhiking and it's a common practice among Mexican youngsters going to the beach in Easter vacations, though in some cases a money contribution is expected for gas because of its relatively high prices. You should make it clear that you have no money to offer before accepting the ride, if this is the case. If you're willing to pay, trucks will often provide lifts for about half the price of a bus ticket. Of course you may be able to negotiate a better deal. Hitchhiking is considered fairly safe and easy in the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]. ==Talk== {{see also|Spanish phrasebook}} '''Spanish''' is the ''de facto'' national language. Spanish is used by virtually the whole population and all public communications (signs, documents, media, etc.) are conducted in the language. Mexico has one of the richest diversity of more than 60 '''indigenous languages''' spoken with official recognition. These languages are spoken within the communities that are largely segregated from mainstream mestizo society. About 5% of Mexicans speak an indigenous language. Most of these communities are fluent in Spanish as well. Many Mexicans do not speak English, even though it is understood by many in Mexico City, tour guides, and workers in popular tourist attractions. Because of this, a good knowledge of Spanish is essential for the independent traveller. The most popular foreign languages to learn within Mexico after English are French, Italian, German and Japanese. German, French, and Russian may be known by some in the tourism industry, but among clerks, policemen, and drivers (most particularly the last) there is basically no such thing as knowledge of foreign languages. Bilingual signs in Spanish and English might be available in popular tourist destinations. ==See== [[File:Tochimilco portada.jpg|thumbnail|Popocatépetl's 16th century monasteries are World Heritage Sites]] Many travelers come to see Mexico's natural wonders, includingː * '''Copper Canyon''' - ride the train through an enormous canyon system in the northwestern mountains * '''Mesoamerican Barrier Reef''' - scuba dive the coral reefs in the warm waters of the Mexican Caribbean * '''Sea of Cortez''' - see migrating whales, sea lions, dolphins and more * '''Volcano Belt''' - climb Mexico's highest mountain peaks and see active, dormant, and inactive volcanoes There are 35 [[UNESCO World Heritage Site|UNESCO world heritage sites]] in Mexico as of 2018, more than anywhere else in the Americas. Most of them are in the cultural category and relate to either the pre-Columbian civilizations in the area or to early colonial cities established by the Spanish ''conquistadores'' and missionaries. Much of Mexico is mountainous with some mountains rising higher than 5,000 m over the sea level. Mexico is on the border of two bioregions; both [[North American wildlife]] and [[Central and South American wildlife]] can be seen in the country. A number of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are in Mexico as well as a number of RAMSAR wetlands. The Mexican Tourism Ministry (SECTUR) has a program called ''[[Pueblos Magicos]]'' to identify and develop tourist programs in smaller, lesser known destinations. Towns designated as Pueblos Magicos usually are rich in colonial heritage, maintain cultural traditions, or offer spectacular natural wonders. These towns are the kinds of places a couple would go for a romantic weekend because they often feature interesting historical sites in a quaint setting with local bed and breakfast inns, regional cuisine in the local restaurants, and good accessibility from major cities. == Do == [[Image:Mayan ruins at Tulum Mexico.jpg|thumb|300px|Mayan Ruins of Tulum]] The warm Mexican climate, spectacular nature and long coastline make the country great for [[outdoor life]], especially [[water sport]]. * '''Surfing''' – [[Baja California]], [[Vallarta]], [[Oaxaca (state)|Oaxaca]] * '''Sea kayaking''' – Baja California * '''Snorkeling''' – Baja California, Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, etc. * '''[[Diving in Mexico|Scuba diving]]''' – Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas etc., and cave diving in the cenotes of the Yucatán Peninsula. * '''Whale watching''' – Baja California, [[Guerrero Negro]], [[Mazunte]], [[Zipolite]] * '''White water rafting''' – Veracruz * '''Visit a volcano''' – Mexico, Toluca etc. * '''Take a ride on the Copper Canyon Railway''' * '''Enjoy the beautiful coast line and beaches of Oaxaca''' – [[Huatulco]], [[Mazunte]], [[Zipolite]], Puerto Angel, [[Puerto Escondido]], etc. * Go for a '''horseback ride''' in the Copper Canyon * '''Visit the archaeological sites''' like Chichen Itza, Tulum, Coba, Monte Alban, Calakmul, Palenque, etc. * '''Volunteering''' – Chiapas, Xalapa, Veracruz or many other destinations * '''Visit ecological parks''' – [[Mayan Riviera]], [[Chiapas]], [[Tamaulipas]] * '''Trekking and viewing cave paintings''' [[Baja California]] ===Sports=== '''[[Association football|Football]]''' (soccer) is Mexico's national sport, and its top men's league, the '''[http://www.ligamx.net/ Liga MX]''', is one of the best funded outside Europe. The big four teams in the Liga MX are '''[http://www.clubamerica.com.mx América]''', '''[http://www.chivasdecorazon.com.mx Chivas]''', '''[http://www.cruzazulfc.com Cruz Azul]''' and '''[http://www.pumas.mx/ Pumas]'''. The rivalry between [[Guadalajara]]'s Chivas and [[Mexico City]]'s América, known as ''El Súper Clásico'', ''El Clásico de Clásicos'' or just ''El Clásico'', is the biggest in Mexico, and fixtures between the two sides are guaranteed to draw partisan sell-out crowds. In [[Northern Mexico]], the biggest game of the year is the ''Clasico Regio'', pitting Monterrey's two top teams against each other. The Mexican national team is also a regional powerhouse, and matches against its northern neighbor, the [[United States of America|United States]], are particularly charged affairs. '''Baseball''' is the second biggest team sport in the country with two leagues, [https://www.milb.com/mexican/ Liga Mexicana de Beisbol] (LMB) and the [https://www.lmp.mx/ Liga Pacifica] (LMP)(sponsored by ARCO). The best players make it to Major League Baseball teams in the U.S., but that is not a universal goal in Mexico, where many players enjoy long careers (particularly in the Mexican League teams) and are relatively well paid. The Liga Mexicana began in 1925. It is organized as two divisions, North and South, with 18 teams playing a 114-game season, from April to September. Teams are located in many popular tourist destinations including [[Cancun]] (Tigres), [[Mexico City]] (Diablos Rojos), [[Guadalajara]] (Mariachis), [[Monterrey]] (Sultanes), and [[Tijuana]] (Toros). The LMP is a winter league with 10 teams, mostly in the states of [[Sinaloa]] and [[Sonora]], but with teams in [[Mexicali]] (Aguilas), [[Guadalajara]] (Charros), and [[Monterrey]] (Sultanes). Monterrey and Guadalajara are the two cities with teams in both leagues, so you can catch a game there at almost any time of the year. '''[[American Football]]''' has a long tradition in Mexico but has often been relegated to third fiddle by the more popular soccer and baseball. Estadio Azteca has seen a handful of NFL games (including, at a time, the best attended NFL game in league history up to that point) and besides a long-standing college league, there is now also a professional league with teams focused in and around Mexico City. '''[[Bullfighting]]''', also referred to as ''la fiesta brava'', is a popular (but declining) spectator sport with a long Hispanic tradition stretching back as far as 2,000 years. Tradition crashes headlong into the modern world when it comes to bullfighting, where animal rights activists fight a constantly escalating war against bullfighting. Proponents of bullfighting point not only to the colorful traditions, but to the fact that the "industry" supporting bullfighting creates 18,000 jobs nationwide. Activists say it's a barbaric, bloodthirsty tradition that has no place in a civilized world. The debate is ongoing and while Mexico City's first bullfight was held in 1526, many people would be happy if no 500th anniversary could take place. Mexico City's Plaza de Toros (Plaza Monumental) is the world's largest bullring and is regarded as being part of the "triple crown" of bullfighting, alongside Madrid and Sevilla. While animal rights activists succeeded in having bullfights blocked in Mexico City in 2022, the case was overturned on appeal and bullfights have resumed in the capital. Bullfights usually occur between November and March, but the season varies by location. In [[Tijuana]], bullfights occur between April and October. In some smaller towns, bullfights are held only in conjunction with large festivals. In any case, travellers who might want a genuine bullfight experience should make plans to visit Mexico soon because the tradition of bullfighting may not last forever. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mexican pesos | currencyCode=M$ | date=January 2025 | USD=19 | EUR=21 | GBP=26 | CAD=14 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mxn-mexican-peso XE.com] }} The currency of Mexico is the ''peso'', denoted in Mexico as "'''$'''" (ISO code '''MXN''') and in Wikivoyage as "'''M$'''". It is divided into 100 ''centavos''. Prices in US dollars (in tourist areas) are labeled "US$" or sport an ''S'' with a double stroke. Coins are issued in denominations of 5, 10 (steel), 20, and 50 centavos (brass; new 50-centavo coins issued from 2011 onwards are steel and smaller in size) and 1, 2, 5 (steel ring, brass center), 10, 20, 50, and 100 pesos (brass ring, steel or silver center), but it's extremely rare to find coins valued at more than 10 pesos. Banknotes are produced in denominations of 20 (blue or green and pink), 50 (pink-red or purple), 100 (red), 200 (green), 500 (brown or blue), and 1,000 (purple and pink for the latest issue, purple for older issues) pesos. The current issue of 20-, 50- and 100-peso bills are made from polymer plastic, and there are several different series of all banknotes. Ten-peso notes exist, but are very rare and no longer issued and accepted, but remain legal tender. ====Acceptance of other currency==== "Old" pesos (issued before 1993) are no longer accepted, but are usually collected by numismatists. Merchants may accept US dollars at a lower exchange rate. US dollars are sometimes accepted in border towns and in some tourist areas. Even when US dollars are accepted, pesos are preferred. Other currencies such as the euro, pound sterling, and Swiss franc are generally not accepted by merchants, and even banks headquartered in Europe may refuse to accept euros for exchange. On the other hand, most banks and exchange offices (''casas de cambio'') will accept them. If you arrive from the south and still carry Central American currency, try to exchange them as soon as possible, as outside of the immediate border area not even banks will accept them. As all Central American countries either have the US dollar as their national currency (El Salvador and Panama) or have it circulating to varying degrees as a ''de facto'' second currency and virtually all banks in Central America and most banks in Mexico accept US dollars (usually at better rates than any other currency) your best bet is to "triangulate" your money from local currency to dollars and from dollars to pesos rather than exchanging them directly, which can be difficult and expensive. Should you have forgotten to exchange your money and the banks are closed, street money changers (called ''coyotes'' or ''cambistas'') don't have fixed opening hours and often have better rates. Be careful however, as they do from time to time rip off foreign visitors with bogus calculators, wrong rates and counterfeit or outdated (and thus worthless) bills. ====Money exchange==== If you have brought cash in US dollars or euros, the best places to change your money are at an arrival airport (such as Mexico City and Cancun), where many money exchanges are located already in the arrival hall (where you can also compare some exchange rates and choose the most convenient) and, normally, at airports, the exchange rate is usually fair. Be sure to pass through Customs before looking for foreign exchange as inside the customs zone in Cancun the rate is far lower than the greediest street vendors ask. If you would like to wait until later to obtain Mexican currency, try not to change at your hotel, as the rates there tend to be extremely disadvantageous for tourists. However, some hotels provide exchanges as a courtesy, in this case it is best to ask just to make sure. Often, you can find money exchanges at strategic places in most tourist destinations and near the hotel (zones). The exchanges rates should not differ drastically from the ones at airport. If you are unfamiliar with Mexican money (bills, coins), try to stick to official foreign exchange booths. In several internationally popular beach destinations like Cancun and Los Cabos, local merchants are accustomed to US dollars and will often accept them as payment (they even have dual-currency cash registers and drawers). However, do bear in mind that the convenience of such “private” money exchange usually comes with a slightly unfavorable exchange rate. ===Shopping=== If there is no price tag, ''ask for the price first''. The simple question is "¿Cuánto cuesta?" and is easily understood by Mexicans. Some shops show the price in '''pesitos'''. That's the diminutive of peso and means the same. [[File:2013-12-27 Oaxaca Markt 03 anagoria.JPG|thumbnail|Spices for sale at a market in Oaxaca]] * Weights are measured in kilograms. Length is measured in centimeters and meters. * For clothes and shoe sizes, the "Continental" measurements are used. Merchants can be picky about the state of your paper money and may scrutinize it and reject anything with rips. Try to keep it in as pristine condition as possible. Reputedly, this is more the case the farther south you go. In any case, you can easily enter a bank with some damaged bill to get it exchanged into another one. Merchants are often reluctant to make change in smaller towns. Try to avoid paying with overly large denominations; the best customer has exact change. In rural areas, your 'change' may consist of chiclets or other small commodities. Merchants, specially those in small markets ("tianguis") and street vendors are no strangers to haggling. Try asking "¿Es lo menos?" ("Is this the smallest price?"), The more rural and less touristy the area you're likely to have more success. *'''[[Mexican Artesanias|Artesanias]]''' A visit to anywhere in Mexico will give one the opportunity to buy art made in the "old world" manner that reflects the diverse ethnicity of Mexico. Included in these articles would be textiles, wood carvings, paintings and carved masks that are used on sacred dances and burials. In many parts of Mexico, artists welcome visitors to their workshops to see how things are made and often to buy "direct from the source". *'''Timeshares''' When visiting the '''resort''' cities of Mexico (e.g. Cancun, Puerto Vallarta or similar), it is more than common to be approached on the streets, in bars, in restaurants and anywhere with offers of gifts, free rental cars, free nights, free dinners, free anything that may appeal to you, just for visiting and listening to a presentation to buy a timeshare. Unless you are severely desperate for something to do, you may want to ignore those making the offer and stay away from those ''free'' offers. While the properties are very nice, great locations and plenty of amenities, this is not the place to ''learn'' about timeshares. Do your homework before even thinking about buying a timeshare, see what the values are in the ''resale'' market and understand the ''rights'' you are buying and the future costs. Collecting on the ''free'' offers may be difficult, if not impossible. * '''Automobiles''' It's certainly worth going over and importing a car back from there, although importing it to the EU/US standards is the hard part. Recommended are the Ford Fusion (like the British Ford Mondeo, but more upmarket) and the Chrysler 200 (the 2.4 model is worth it). Volkswagens can be substantially better-equipped than European or North American counterparts. The Passat sold in Mexico is not the same car as in Europe, and is substantially bigger, however, engines are the same as in Europe, except for the 2.5 petrol. * '''Cuban cigars''' are a fun novelty for tourists from the US and are widely available. It's still illegal to bring them back to the US, although the worst that's likely to happen is they'll be confiscated by customs. ====Credit cards and debit cards==== Credit cards and debit cards (with Maestro or MasterCard/Visa affiliation) are widely accepted in Mexico. You can use them at ATMs as well as in most department stores, bigger restaurants, gas stations, but be sure that outside cities you always carry sufficient cash in pesos, and generally verify the possibility to pay with card before consumption. Smaller (often family run) businesses often accept only cash. Most of the time, an extra 5% when paying with card is added. Also, you cannot get lower prices if you haggle unless you pay cash. While many Pemex stations accept credit cards, especially in locations that have heavy tourist traffic, some do not; travellers who intend to pay by credit card should always ask the attendant if the card is accepted before pumping begins. ====ATMs==== Bank of America customers can avoid ATM fees by using Santander Serfin ATMs. Other banks may have similar policies, check with your respective institution. For example, Banamex bank is owned by Citibank/Citigroup, and Bancomer is owned by BBVA, which is related to Chase in the United States. Ask to your bank if they have relation with Mexican banks, and the advantages that such ally can provide. Otherwise, do not be surprised to find yourself with a fee for each withdrawal. ATMs ask you if you want to accept the shown fee. In some ATMs you need to put your credit card inside crosswise. 5 Lowest ATM fees used with UK issued Mastercard, January 2024: Inbursa M$22.04, BanBajio M$23.20, Banca Mifel M$26.68, BanCoppel M$29, CitiBanamex M$30.74. As of January 2024, other fees are: Banco Azteca M$34.80, Santander M$34.80, HSBC M$35.84, Banorte M$58.00, Multiva M$67.28, Banregio M$81.20, BBVA M$174 pesos There is no difference between Mastercard and Visa. ATMs in smaller towns can run out of currency; sometimes this is a regular occurrence. Check with the bank (or locals) about the best time to use the ATM and never wait until the last minute to get cash. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping]] in Mexico is similar to the United States. It is usually from 10 to 15%. Meals have a 10% to 15% tip (this includes fast food deliveries). This tip is usually left by most people in restaurants, although it is not so common in street restaurants or stands, where the tenders usually have a can or box where people deposit coins. It is generally common to leave a tip on the table after paying and therefore having small change is very useful. Mexican bars and night clubs often charge directly to the bill 15% of the total amount (taxes included). That is illegal in most cases because of the imposition of the tip and because they calculate the 15% with taxes included. In large groups, or in nightclubs the barmen expect the customers to deposit their tip in a cup left on the table before serving the drinks so the service they give is in function with the tip they received. It is also customary to give a tip to the person who sometimes guard the car as if they were valet parking; in Mexico these people are often called ''viene viene'' (literally: "comes, comes") or ''franeleros'' and usually people give them M$3-20 depending on the zone, although they sometimes ask for bigger sums of money when the car is left close to a night life area. In medium and large retail stores such as Wal-Mart there are uniformed helpers, usually children or the elderly, who bag the products just after the clerk has scanned them. This role is called ''cerillo'' (Spanish for "match"). It is common for these helpers to not have a basic salary, so all the money earned is from the tips people give them. Most customers give M$2-5 depending on the number of products. Cerillos also put the bags in the cart and if the load is large they can even help bringing it to the car and unloading the bags; in these cases, they normally receive more than M$15. Tipping is not expected in cabs or buses, except when it is a tour. In some populated Mexican restaurants wandering musicians enter, play, and expect the customers to pay something, although this is voluntary. In filling stations, the workers usually get M$2-5 for every gasoline load. In stadiums people give a small tip to the person who shows the place where they should sit. Tips are also given to bellboys, barbers and people that work in similar services. ==Eat== [[File:TacoPlacesPetatlan.JPG|thumbnail|Taco stalls]] [[File:Gordita.jpg|thumbnail|Gordita]] {{see also|Mexican cuisine}} [[Mexican cuisine]] can be described better as a collection of various regional cuisines rather than a standard list of dishes for the whole country. Because of climate, geography and ethnic differences, we can classify Mexican cuisine broadly in 4 great categories according to the region: * '''Northern''' – Mostly meat dishes done mainly from beef and goat. This includes Cabrito, Carne Asada (Barbecue) and Arrachera. Is influenced by international cuisine (mostly from the United States and Europe), but it retains the essential Mexican flavor. * '''Central''' – This region is influenced by the rest of the country, but has its own well-developed local flavor in dishes such as Pozole, Menudo and Carnitas. Dishes are mostly corn-based and with different spices. * '''Southeastern''' – Is known for its spicy vegetable and chicken-based dishes. Caribbean cuisine have influences here because of the location. * '''Coast''' – Has a strong emphasis on seafood and fish, but corn-based recipes can be easily found as well. Ask for the "platillo tipico" of the town, which is the local speciality that may not be found elsewhere, a variation, or the birthplace of a recipe. Also consider that most of the recipes change from place to place: for example, tamales in the south are made with the banana plant leaves, and in the Huasteca region tamales are very big (they are called "Zacahuil"); one is OK for a complete family. If you are travelling here from [[Spain]] or elsewhere in [[Latin America]], keep in mind that many Mexican dishes can have the same name, but be very different from their counterparts elsewhere. For instance, a Mexican ''tamal'' is very different from a Colombian ''tamal'', and a Mexican ''tortilla'' bears virtually no similarity at all to a Spanish ''tortilla''. Traditional Mexican food can often be very spicy; if you are not used to peppers, always ask if your food includes it. "(''¿Esto tiene chile? Es picante?'')." There are many [[street food|food carts]] on the streets of Mexican cities and towns. Travelers are advised to eat from these carts with caution, as hygienic preparation practices are not always reliable. You can measure the quality of food by popularity; do not eat in lonely places, even if they are restaurants or hotels. Consider that Mexicans eat their main meal in the middle of the afternoon (around 3 o'clock), with breakfast or "almuerzo", a mid-morning affair after a very light something, like a small plate of fruit or a roll with coffee, in the very early morning. Although, many Mexicans have large breakfasts in the morning. Later, at night the meal varies from very light, such as sweet rolls or breads, coffee or hot chocolate, to heavy dinner, such as pozole, tacos, and tamales. Schedule your meals accordingly and you will get a better perspective on the gauge of how busy (popular) a restaurant is. In doing so, you may (or may not) find some of the most unique and genuinely Mexican dishes you've ever had. From these vendors, you may find tacos, burgers, bread, roasted field corn or elote served with mayonnaise, or a light cream, and sprinkled with fresh white cheese, roasted sweet potato called camote, and almost any kind of food and service you would imagine. * '''Chicharrón''' – Deep fried pork skin. Quite crunchy and if well-prepared slightly oily. Heavenly spread with guacamole. Or sometimes cooked in a mild chili sauce and served with eggs. * '''Enchiladas''' – Chicken or meat stuffed soft tortillas covered with green, red or mole sauce. Some may have melted cheese inside and/or on top. * '''Tacos''' – Soft corn tortillas filled with meat (asada (steak strips), pollo (shredded chicken), carnitas (fried shredded pork), lengua (cow tongue), cabeza (meat from cow skull), sesos (cow brains), tripa (cow gut), al pastor (chili, pork, beef cut from a spit) or chorizo (pork sausage)). In the north sometimes flour tortillas are used. Do not expect the crispy taco shell anywhere. * '''Tamales''' (singular ''tamal'') – corn dough shell with meat or vegetable fillings. Tamales Dulces contain fruit and/or nuts. * '''Tortas''' – Fancy Mexican sandwich. Bread roll that is grilled lightly, meat fillings are same as tacos: lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, beans, onion, mayonnaise and avocado. One is beginning to find tortas with the American styled cold cuts available, as well, in urban areas. * '''Huitlacoche''' – (wit-la-ko-che) A fungus, much like mushrooms, found in corn. This dish is usually an additive to others. Foreigners might find it hard to stomach but Mexicans swear by it. Although most Mexicans love huitlacoche, most do not prepare it in their own home very frequently. It can be found in most markets or stores. * '''Quesadillas''' – Cheese or other ingredients grilled in between corn tortillas, heavy on cheese and lighter on other items such as chicken, pork, beans, squash flower blossoms and such. * '''Mole''' – Mild to medium chili based sauce made with cocoa and a hint of peanut over meat, usually served with shredded chicken or turkey. ('Pollo en mole' and this is known as Puebla or poblano style). There are many regional moles and some are green, yellow, black and can vary greatly in flavor depending on the artistic talent or preferences involved. * '''Pozole''' – Chicken or pork broth with hominy corn, spiced when served with oregano, lettuce, lemon juice, radish, chopped onion, dried ground chile and other ingredients such as chicken, pork, or even seafood, usually served with a side dish of tostadas, fried potato and fresh cheese tacos. Very fortifying. * '''Gorditas''' – corn patty stuffed with chicharron, chicken, cheese, etc. topped with cream, cheese and hot sauce. * '''Grillo''' – Grasshopper, usually cooked and placed inside another dish such as a quesadilla. It is frequently found in markets in the state of Morelos and other central Mexico states. This is not common in Mexico City. * '''Guacamole''' – crushed avocado sauce with green serrano chile, chopped red tomato and onion, lime juice, salt, and served with somewhat thick (1/8 inch) fried tortilla slices or "totopos". * '''Tostadas''' – fried flat tortilla topped with fried beans, lettuce, cream, fresh cheese, sliced red tomato and onion, hot sauce, and chicken or other main ingredient. Think a corn chip dippers, on low dose steroids, for salsas and as above. You do not usually get a plate of this automatically in many parts of Mexico as you would in the US, although they are starting to show up in resort areas that cater to US nationals automatically. * '''Huaraches''' – a bigger (think shoe-shaped) version of a gordita. * '''Sopes''' – corn patty topped with a wide variety of ingredients such as chicken, cheese, mashed beans, and various hot sauces. * '''Carnitas''' – deep fried pork meat served with a variety of salsa, to get them dry with less grease. * '''Chile en nogada''' – A big green Poblano chile with a beef or pork apple stuffing, covered with a white nut (usually walnut, known as ''nuez'') sauce and sprinkled with pomegranate seeds which happen to be red. The three colors represent the national flag and the dish is served nationwide around Mexican Independence Day (16 September). * '''Barbacoa''' – Sheep or goat meat cooked with maguey leaves in an oven made at a hole in the ground. Think BBQ heaven without the hickory smoke or catsup-based BBQ sauce. Served with condiments and salsas in corn tortilas and sometimes in a torta bread roll. * '''Sopa de Tortilla''' – tortilla chips soup usually of chicken broth, plain or with a touch of tomato flavor, and usually mild and not at all hot. Commonly served with diced avocado and fresh crumbled white cheese on top. * '''Chilaquiles''' – tortilla chips with a green tomatillo, or red tomato, or mild chili sauce, Usually served with chicken or eggs on top or within. Usually a mild dish. * '''Migas''' – is a typical dish in the center of the country which is a guajillo chile broth with soaked bread, which you can add the pork bones with meat or eggs. You may see a sign with '''"orden de tacos"'''. This means usually 5 pieces, if there is no other amount stated. The word ''orden'' is also used for other types of Mexican food. There is breakfast in McDonald's that you may not find in other countries. It includes:<br> • McMolletes<br> • McMuffin Huevo y Salchicha<br> • McMuffin a la Mexicana<br> • Hotcakes con Salchichas<br> • Desayuno Especial Mexicano<br> • McBurrito a la Mexicana for M$30 (Dec 2021)<br> Basic burgers you may not find in other countries during the day are for about M$30 (Dec 2021):<br> • Hamburguesa Gourmet<br> • Hamburguesa Especial con lechuga ==Drink== [[File:Venta de tequila en Tequila Jalisco México..JPG|thumbnail|Tequila store in [[Tequila]]]] Tap water is potable, but generally not recommended for drinking. Hotels usually give guests one (large) bottle of drinking water per room per night. Bottled water is also readily available in supermarkets and at tourist attractions. * Absinthe is legal in Mexico. * Tequila, distilled from Agave (a specific type of cactus) * Pulque, ferment made from Maguey * Mezcal, similar to tequila but distilled from Maguey * Raicilla, a type of mezcal made in Jalisco * Pox, whisky meets rum, distilled from grains and cane sugar, made in Chiapas * Tepache, ferment made from pineapple * Tuba, made from coconut palm tree [[File:Modelo Negra and Victoria beer bottles.jpg|thumb|A Mexican dark lager (Modelo Negra) and golden lager (Victoria)]] There are also several Mexican beers, most of which are available outside Mexico, these include Corona (popular, but not necessarily as overwhelmingly popular in Mexico as many foreigners think), Dos Equis (XX) and Modelo Especial. Lighter Mexican beers are often served with lime and salt, though many Mexicans do not drink beer in this fashion. In some places you will find beer served as a prepared drink called "Michelada" or simply "Chelada". The formula varies depending on the place, but it's usually beer mixed with lime juice and various sauces and spices on ice served in a salt rim glass. Spicy beer is available in supermarkets; try it, it will be an experience. Other variation called "Cubana" includes Clamato cocktail, soybean sauce, salt and a little bit of hot sauce. Mexico produces wine in several different areas, the most important of which is the [[Valle de Guadalupe]] in [[Baja California]], which accounts for more than 90% of Mexico's total wine production. The second largest wine region is in the Bajio state of [[Queretaro (state)|Queretaro]] centered on the town of [[Ezequiel Montes]]. Wine is also produced in the states of [[Sonora]], [[Coahuila]], and [[Guanajuato (state)|Guanajuato]]. Most Mexicans tend to prefer European or Chilean imports, but Mexican wines are becoming more popular as they continue to earn accolades in the press and in competitions. In the prestigious 2023 Concours Mundial de Bruxelles, the top point getter was Cenzontle Blanco from [[Valle de Guadalupe]], beating out thousands of wines from around the world. Non alcoholic beverages: * Chocolate * Atole * Horchata (rice based drink) * Agua de Jamaica (hibiscus iced tea, similar to karkadai in Egypt) * Licuados de fruta (fruit smoothies and milkshakes) * Champurrado (thick chocolate drink) * Refrescos (common sodas, generally sweet and made with cane sugar, not corn syrup as in the United States). [[File:Champurrado thenewplace sf.jpg|thumbnail|Champurrado]] The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18, but not strictly enforced. In many places, consumption of alcohol in public ("open container") is illegal and usually punishable by a day in jail. Be aware of waitresses and barmen, especially at night clubs. If you are not aware of your consumption and how much you already spent, they can add a few more drinks to your account. Some do this, not all. Alcoholmeters are widely used in driving roads If drinking, always have a designated driver. Driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage will result in 1 to 3 days in jail. Mexico, especially the southern state of Chiapas, produces excellent coffee. Café con leche, usually one part coffee to one part steamed milk, is very popular. Unfortunately, many places in Mexico that are not cafés serve Nescafe instant coffee, so you may have to search for the good coffee, but it's there. Mineral water is popular in many regions of Mexico. Topo Chico is the most widely available brand by a very wide margin. ==Learn== [[File:Flag of Mexico in Acapulco.jpg|thumbnail|Hornos Beach in Acapulco]] The most important Universities in Mexico include the '''UNAM''', ranked 73rd worldwide, and the best in Latin America. Its main campus is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Murals in the main campus were painted by some of the most recognized artists in Mexican history, such as Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros. '''IPN''' (Instituto Politécnico Nacional), '''ITESM''' (Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, located in Monterrey but with branch campuses in many other Mexican cities) the '''Iberoamerican University''' (Universidad Iberoamericana, part of the Jesuit University System) and '''Universidad Anahuac'''. [[File:Chichen Itza 21.JPG|thumbnail|Chichen Itza, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world]] Most of the government-funded universities on mayor cities (state capital) have short courses on history, gastronomy and cultural subjects, most of them are almost free. Other places are the "Casa de la Cultura", (house of culture) that are historical buildings used for cultural related activities (music concerts, theater, paint and other exhibits, they also have "talleres" (workshops). Most places have programs for foreigners to learn Spanish, or even study a whole degree. There are some other courses where you can learn traditional Mexican activities such as handcrafts. There are Spanish language schools throughout Mexico. The city with the most schools is Cuernavaca, with more than 50 schools. Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato also offer a number of schools to choose from. Prices vary; however, most schools are very reasonably priced. Many schools can arrange homestays with local Mexican families. ==Work== Working may require a work visa, which is difficult to get if you just want to freelance for a short time. Many important headquarters are located throughout the main cities of Mexico. Top Mexican corporations such as Televisa, Bimbo, Cemex, Telmex and Vitra are often willing to hire professionals who are native English speakers as much of their business is developed alongside North American corporations. Native English speakers can pick up work as English teachers. The upside is that English speakers with no knowledge of Spanish are appreciated, because they will force their students to practice English. The downside is that salaries are somewhat low. ==Sleep== [[File:Plazadeliberacion1.jpg|thumbnail|Plaza de liberación and the cathedral, Guadalajara]] Several hotel chains are available throughout Mexico, including Palace Resorts, Le Blanc Spa Resort, Best Western, Holiday Inn, CityExpress, Fiesta Inn, Fairmont, Hilton, Ritz, Camino Real, Marriott (Sheraton, W, Westin, Four Points) and many others. Rates have risen considerably, though most are still reasonable compared to similar U.S. or European hotels. Chain accommodations are usually clean and comfortable, good for business travelers, but not necessarily for those wanting to experience Mexico itself. There are also many all-inclusive resorts for those visiting the major beach destinations. Boutique hotels are found all over the country; price range varies but all of them are rich in Mexican traditions, elegance and charm, the perfect way to experience the cultural heritage of each state. A great source of information is Melba Levick's book ''Mexicasa,'' found in many libraries and online bookstores. Otherwise an authentic accommodation can usually be found by asking locals or gringos, especially in the smaller towns. Smaller hotels and motels along the roadside may not be safe or comfortable. If you are unsure about conditions or the safety of the room, ask to see it before paying. This will not be considered rude. Decent hotels for a low budget are usually found around the central bus station of a town. If you are going to stay at cheaper hotels in cooler areas in the winter consider bringing extra clothes, an electric blanket or a sleeping bag, as there is power, but no heat. And although it may get quite hot by afternoon outside, adobe and cement are like fridges. An electric tea kettle is also a good idea, as hot water might not be available when you want it. There is a large backpacker culture in Mexico, and there are many hostels offering dorm accommodation and private rooms. You can expect to pay M$100-300 (Nov 2021) for a night in a dorm, sometimes including breakfast. Hostels are a fantastic place to share information with fellow travelers, and you can often find people who have been to your future destinations. If you're travelling with children, use a plastic case (with wheels and a handle) as luggage, and it can be used as a bathtub for the kids if necessary. Budget hotels rarely, if ever, have bathtubs. ==Stay safe== [[File:Policia turistica ciudad mexico.jpg|thumbnail|Mounted tourist police, Mexico City]] {{cautionbox | Some governments advise that you '''should not travel''' to the following states: [[Guerrero]], [[Michoacán]], [[Colima (state)|Colima]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Tamaulipas]] and [[Zacatecas (state)|Zacatecas]]. These governments recommend against traveling to the six states mentioned above because of high levels of crime, unreliable law enforcement assistance, and violence related to drug trafficking. The Mexican government makes a considerable effort to protect visitors to major tourist destinations, and resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico generally do not see the levels of drug-related violence and crime reported in the border region and in areas along major trafficking routes. | us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html | uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mexico | canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mexico | australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/americas/mexico | lastedit=2023-12-15}} Mexico has a reputation for being a dangerous country — a reputation that's not entirely unwarranted — but the average traveller should not be too overly concerned or cautious of their surroundings. A lot of the crime occurs between those involved in the drug trade or organised crime. (See [[#Drug traffic issues|drug traffic issues]] for more information) In most cities, location is very important as security changes from place to place. Areas close to downtown (''centro'') are safer to walk at night, especially on the "Plaza", "Zócalo" or "Jardín" (main square) and areas nearby. Stay in populated areas, avoid poor neighborhoods, especially at night, and don't walk there at any time if you are alone. Vicious beatings have been reported at resorts by people who have travelled alone, so stay alert for any suspicious-looking individual. If you wish to visit one of the slums, you should only go as part of a guided tour with a reputable guide or tour company. Political violence in Chiapas and Oaxaca has abated, and is far less of a threat than drug-related crime. However, Mexican authorities do not look approvingly on foreigners who participate in demonstrations (even peaceful ones) or voice support for groups such as the Ejército Zapatista de Liberación Nacional and its leader, Subcomandante Marcos, even if their images and slogans are commonly sold on t-shirts and caps in markets. Do not wave cash or credit cards around. Use them discreetly and put them away as quickly as possible. The nationwide emergency number is '''911'''. Although Mexico has one of the largest police forces in the world, systemic corruption and low salaries often restrict the capabilities of law enforcement. Enlisting the help of the police almost always requires solid Spanish-language skills. Beggars are not usually a threat, but you will find lots in urban areas. Avoid being surrounded by them, as some can [[Pickpockets|pickpocket]] your goods. Giving away two pesos quickly can get you out of such troubles (but may also attract other beggars). Most poor and homeless Mexicans prefer to sell trinkets, gum, sing, or provide some meager service than beg outright. Larger cities, such as Guadalajara and Mexico City, are safer than most places in Mexico. However, caution is still recommended. ===Drug crimes=== [[File:Mexican States with mafia conflicts.png|thumb|States with the most conflict, marked in red (2010)]] Former president Felipe Calderon waged war on the drug cartels, and in turn, they waged war against the government (and more often, among each other). Some Mexican northern and border cities such as Tijuana, Nogales, Nuevo Laredo, Chihuahua, Culiacán, Durango, and Juárez can be dangerous if you are not familiar with them, especially at night. Most crime in the northern cities is related to the drug trade and police corruption. However, since law enforcement figures are often overwhelmed battling drug-related activities, many northern border towns that were somewhat dangerous to begin with are now a hotbed for criminals to act with impunity. Ciudad Juárez, in particular, bears the brunt of this violence, and with nearly a fourth of Mexico's overall murders, travel there requires special attention. Away from the northern states, cartel related violence is centered in specific areas, including the Pacific Coast states of Michoacán and Guerrero. However, exercise caution anywhere, especially at night or in high crime areas. Tourists and other travellers are of no interest to the drug cartels. Many popular tourist destinations like Oaxaca, Guanajuato, Los Cabos, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Cancún, Mérida, and Guadalajara are largely unaffected by this, simply because there are no borders there. Ciudad Juárez is a primary battleground in the drug war, and while foreign travellers are not often targeted, the presence of two warring cartels, many small opportunistic gangs, and armed police and soldiers has created a chaotic situation to say the least. As a rule of thumb, the further away you are from the border, and the closer you are to Mexico City, the safer you'll be. Many people go to Mexico City to seek refuge from drug-related violence as many politicians and military personnel are there. Consumption of drugs should be prohibited, although the problem of illegal medicine is serious in Mexico, this is still illegal (but consumption of drugs like cannabis or having a small amount are legal or decriminalised). Also, this can let you to be in trouble with gang. The army also sets up random checkpoints throughout all major highways in search of narcotics and weapons. Drug consumption is also opposed by a large percentage of the population. ===Advice for the beach=== ====[[Jellyfish]]==== If you see Portuguese man o' war (''Physalia physalis''), be far away from it. If a person is unluckily contacted with the jellyfish, use tweezers to remove the jellyfish's stingers, then go to hospital. ==== Stingray stings ==== Choose a place with hot water if you can, because the heat deactivates the poison. ==== [[Sunburns]] ==== Bring only reef-safe sunscreen if going to beaches because you might not find it available in some areas. ==== Riptides ==== Very dangerous, particularly during and after storms. ===Public transportation=== When in major cities &ndash; especially Mexico City &ndash; it is better to play it safe with taxis. The best options are to phone a taxi company, to request that your hotel or restaurant call a taxi for you, or to pick up a taxi from an established post (''Taxi de Sitio''). Also, taxis can be stopped in the middle of the street, which is okay for most of the country, but particularly unsafe in Mexico City. As chaotic as it might be sometimes, the [https://www.metro.cdmx.gob.mx/ Metro] is the best way to move around in Mexico City: it's cheap (M$5 for a ticket as of Feb 02, 2020), safe, has a large network covering almost anywhere you'd want to go in the city and it's extremely fast, compared to any on-street transportation, since it doesn't have to bear with the constant traffic jams. If you've never been in a crowded subway, avoid peak hours (usually from 06:00–09:00 and 17:00–20:00) and do your homework: check first which line (''línea'') and station (''estación'') you want to go to and the address of the place you're trying to reach. Your hotel can give you this information, and maps of the subway system are available on the internet and at the stations. Most stations also have maps of the vicinity. Avoid taking the subway at late hours of the night, but during the day many stations are patrolled by police officers and the subway is safer than taking the public bus. Your major concern in the subway is the pickpockets, so keep your important belongings and wallets in a safe place. A word of caution for people who are used to European or major American subway systems that operate around the clock: even in Mexico City, the last subway leaves around midnight, with service only resuming in the early morning. Taxis are priced accordingly, and you should keep your wits about you when moving around in the middle of the night. If you are travelling by bus, do not put your valuables in your big bag in the storage compartment of the bus. If the police or the military controls the luggage, they might take out what they want, especially in night buses, when passengers are most likely asleep. The use of a money belt (worn underneath the clothes and out of sight) is highly recommended. ===Driving=== * All distances on the signboards and speed limits are in metric units. * Gas is likewise sold in metric units and far cheaper than in Europe (and still a bit cheaper than in the U.S.) [[File:15-07-21-Mexico-Stadtzentrum-RalfR-N3S 9738.jpg|thumb|Downtown Mexico City]] If driving in from the [[USA]], always purchase Mexican liability insurance (legal defense coverage recommended) before crossing the border or immediately after crossing. When you are paying for your temporary import permit (for going beyond border areas), often in the same building there are several stalls selling Mexican auto insurance. Even if your American (or Canadian, etc.) insurance covers your vehicle in Mexico, it '''cannot''' (by Mexican law) cover liability (e.g., hitting something or injuring someone). You will probably spend time in a Mexican jail if you have an accident without it. And even if your own insurance does (in theory) provide liability coverage in Mexico—you'll be filing your claim from behind bars! Don't risk it, get Mexican auto insurance. Never drive above the speed limit or run stop signs/red lights, as Mexican police will use any excuse to pull over tourists and give you a ticket. In some cities, the police can not give you a ticket, but they might warn you. The fine for speeding could be as much as US$100 (M$1870)<!--shouldn't we use the exact peso amount instead of a rounded USD amount?-->, depending on the city. As of April 2011, police across the country are cracking down on drunk driving, particularly in Mexico City, the larger cities, and the beach resorts. There are random checkpoints throughout the country in which every driver has to stop and take an automated inebriation test. If you fail, you will end up in a Mexican prison. You will mostly find beggars and windshield cleaners at some traffic lights; having your windows closed at all times is especially recommendable in some areas of Mexico City. The windshield cleaners will try to clean yours: a strong and firm "no" is suggested. ===Natural disasters=== Natural disasters in Mexico include [[hurricanes]] and [[earthquakes]]. [[Mexico City]] in particular is located in a seismically active area. === Firearms === Every year a few U.S. tourists run afoul of Mexico's strict gun laws. '''Bringing guns into Mexico is illegal in most circumstances''', and this includes guns kept for personal protection on private boats. If you want to bring a firearm, see [[Recreational shooting#Mexico]]. === Hiking === Many trails are unmarked in real life, even if they are present at OpenStreetMap or a hiking app. If a local rule says to do a trail with a guide - it's much better to go with the guide, the route will be dangerous and easy to get lost. ==Stay healthy== Some parts of Mexico are known for '''[[travelers' diarrhea]]''', often called "Montezuma's Revenge" (Venganza de Moctezuma). The reason for this is not so much the spicy food but the contamination of the '''[[water]] supply''' in some of the poorer zones in Mexico. In most of the small towns that are less industrialized, only the poorest Mexicans will drink tap water. The best policy is to only drink bottled or purified water, both of which are readily available. Be sure to specify ''bottled'' water in restaurants and avoid ice (which is often not made from purified water). Just like in the US, in most major Mexican cities the water is purified at the cities' water company. In most restaurants in these poor zones, the only water served comes from large jugs of purified water. If you get sick, visit your local clinic as soon as possible. There is medicine available that will counter the bacteria. Medicine in urban areas is highly developed, public hospitals are just as good as public hospitals in US, and just as the American public hospitals, they are always full. It's recommended going to private hospitals for faster service. Before traveling to rural areas of Mexico, it might be a good idea to obtain '''anti-malarial medications''' from your health care provider. It is strongly advised that the traveler be sure that any meats they are consuming have been thoroughly cooked due to an increasing rate of '''roundworm''' infections, particularly in the Acapulco area. Along with the risk for malaria, mosquitoes have also been known to carry the '''West Nile virus'''. Be sure to bring an effective insect repellent, preferably one that contains the ingredient DEET. The rate of '''AIDS/HIV''' infection in Mexico is lower than in the US, France and most Latin American nations. However, if you plan on having sex, be sure that you use a latex condom to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading the virus. As with any western location, cases of '''hantavirus pulmonary syndrome''' have been reported throughout Mexico. This is an acute, rare (but often fatal) illness for which there is no known cure. The virus is believed to be present in animal feces, particularly feces from members of the rodent family. Therefore, do not wander into animal dens and be especially careful when entering enclosed spaces that are not well ventilated and lack sunlight. Vaccination against '''Hepatitis A & B''' and '''Typhoid fever''' is recommended. If you are bitten by an animal, assume that the animal was carrying '''rabies''' and seek medical attention immediately for treatment. In remote areas, carry a first aid kit, aspirin, and other related items that are sold without medical prescription. ==Respect== [[File:MojigangaSMA002.jpg|thumb|Festival in [[San Miguel de Allende]]]] Mexicans have a somewhat relaxed sense of time so it's vital to be patient. Arriving half an hour late is common and should not be taken in a negative light. When anyone, even a total stranger, sneezes, you always say "¡salud!" ("bless you!" or more literally, "your health!"): otherwise, it is considered rude. In rural areas, particularly in the Mexican heartland (Jalisco, Zacatecas, Aguascalientes, etc.), the even more pious "Jesús te bendiga" (May Jesus bless you) will follow a sneeze. Attitudes towards LGBT travellers can be hostile in more rural states, but [[LGBT Mexico City|Mexico City is very LGBT friendly]] as are popular beach resort areas such as [[Cancun]], [[Puerto Vallarta]], and [[Acapulco]]. By court order, all states in Mexico either allow the performance of same-sex marriages, or recognize such marriages when performed in other states. Same-sex marriage is performed in Mexico City and in the states of Aguascalientes, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Campeche, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Colima, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Morelos, Nayarit, Nuevo León, Oaxaca, Puebla, Quintana Roo, San Luis Potosí, Sinaloa, Sonora and Tlaxcala as well as in certain municipalities in Guerrero and Zacatecas. It is pending publication in Querétaro, and being prepared for legislation in Yucatán. Southern Mexico City is the best place in terms of tolerance. When entering churches, always take off any sunglasses, caps or hats. Wearing shorts is rarely a problem, but still wear a sweatshirt or sweater to your waist to avoid showing too much skin, which could be disrespectful in such places. However, away from the beaches, or northern areas, shorts are very rarely worn by Mexicans on the street and thus will attract more attention to you and make you stand out as a foreigner. === Sensitive issues === '''Show respect to Mexico's laws'''. Although corruption and bribery have long been around, a visitor behaving in a way that implies that Mexico is a lawless country is considered disrespectful. Offering a bribe to an official may get you into trouble. '''You are unlikely to cause offence by having a discussion about local politics, economics and history'''; Mexicans consider them good conversational topics and are more than happy to delight you with such discussions. This said, sensitive subjects like illegal immigration to the US, crime, or the drug war are likely to arouse strong emotions. Mexicans are well aware of their country's problems and would like to forget about them once in a while. Also, you might be surprised at how much Mexicans know about the politics of your country – especially the times in its history when they feel your country has screwed Mexico over (which applies especially for Spain, France and the U.S.). That said, Mexican history tends to be viewed as a series of shades of grey — there are those who feel the need to extol economic growth under Porfirio Díaz, just like there are those who point out anti-democratic tendencies under Benito Juarez. '''A lot of Mexicans do not have a favourable opinion of the Spanish Empire''' and the things they've done in the past. They feel that many of Mexico's problems are rooted in what the Spanish brought over. This said, there are no feelings of resentment towards Spain and Spanish people. '''Try not to assume the worst in people'''. Mexico may have a lot of social and political problems, but that does not mean that everyone is alike. '''The great majority of the population is and traditionally has been Roman Catholic''', and there is still a strong following of this faith among Mexicans from all socioeconomic backgrounds. However, there are sizeable Protestant, Evangelicial, Pentecostal communities (in part due to US missionary activity) and the country also has one of the largest Jehovah's Witnesses communities. The irreligious are a small minority and they are found mostly among college-educated urban dwellers of the middle and upper middle class. Saying anything that hints at atheism or agnosticism may simply be shrugged off, or could incite lengthy discussions or at worst, attempts at proselytizing. As a rule of thumb, try not to have religious discussions with people you're not well acquainted with. === Cultural notes === While overt racism may not be apparent, as a general rule, wealth and social status are historically tied to European ancestry and skin color. Mexican society is sharply divided by social class, with the rich, middle class, and poor often living very separate lives, and can have very distinct cultures. Social practices or tastes of one social group may not be shared by all classes. Clubs, bars, and restaurants may cater largely to one crowd or another, and a wealthier person or tourist may feel out of place or received unwanted attention in a working class cantina; a poor looking person may be blatantly refused service or get unfriendly stares at an exclusive establishment. There are many words in the country according to ethnic background: * Do not be offended to be called a "güero(a)" (blonde) and its diminutive form "güerito(a)" (blondie), as its a common way for the average Mexican citizen to refer mostly to Caucasian people, including white Mexicans. The words "gringo" and its synonym "gabacho" are used regardless of the actual nationality of the tourists and they are not meant as offensive. Actually, they are often used as terms of endearment. * If you are East Asian, you will be referred to as "Chino(a)" (Chinese) and its diminutive form "chinito(a)" regardless of whether you are Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, etc. Exceptions are in the capital, Mexicali, and in Monterrey, where a decent-sized Korean community does exist. * If you are black, "negro(a)" or "negrito(a)" may seem harsh, especially if you are from the US, but it is not a swear word. Although there are few black people in Mexico in many regions of the country (except in on the east and west coasts in the south), Mexicans, especially the younger generations, are not hateful. In fact, a revolutionary who later became the second president was a man of mixed European and African descent, Vicente Guerrero. * Historically, all Middle Easterners were referred to as "turcos" (even if they were from Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, etc.) [[File:Catedral de Guadañajara.JPG|thumb|Guadalajara cathedral]] === Other things to watch out for === If you try to use Spanish to address people, be careful about the use of "tú" (informal, friendly; the verb for calling someone "tú" is tutear) and "usted" (formal, respectful) forms. Using "tú" can be demeaning to people, since this is the form normally used for addressing children or close friends. Use "usted" unless you are sure you can use "tú"; doing so may perhaps seem a shade old-fashioned, but doing otherwise can be pretty rude and embarrassing in some situations. Always use the "usted" form to a law enforcement officer (or other person of authority), even if they may use the "tú" form to talk to you. Otherwise, you can say "tú" to children under 16, to people who genuinely are your friends and to persons who call you by your first name or explicitly have told you to do so. People address each other depending on their social status, age and friendship. To refer to a woman, always call her "señorita" (Miss) unless you are sure that she is married, then you call her "señora" (Mrs). When talking to an older man, use "señor" irrespective of his marital status. If you want to call a waiter, address him as "joven" which means "young man". You may call someone by his professional title ("ingeniero", "arquitecto", "doctor", "oficial", etc.). Actually, Mexican people will use the "tú" and "usted", "first name" or "surname" depending on their relationship, and the code is not easy to learn. While the word "güey" is equivalent to "dude" or "mate" among young people, it is still considered extremely vulgar by the older generation. This abrasive term of endearment is used only between people who have achieved a certain level of trust, so avoid using it. In Mexico, "estúpido" has a far, far worse connotation than "stupid" in English. Due to the highly matriarchal nature of Mexican culture, the combination of words "tu madre" (your mother) is cacophonous and taken offensively by residents, regardless of age or gender. To refer to somebody's mother, remember to replace it with "su señora madre" (roughly "your respected mother") in formal situations or the sweeter "tu mamá" in informal ones. Never, ever use strong language when talking to a woman. You may see displays of male chauvinism. It is falling out of favor, but it is still seen and mostly tolerated in small towns, as well as cities that receive considerable amounts of rural migrants. It can be defined as a male's strong desire for and skill of the domination and imposition of will, on a wife, sister, or any close female. It can also be identified by a strong desire to prove courage through showy bravado and status through a following of yes-men and henchmen. While it is usually not directed towards visitors, it can be in a variety of strengths. It is best to pretend not to notice it and move on. Another type of ''machismo'', which perhaps stems out of the same desires but does not carry any of the antisocial connotations, is male courteousness towards women. This is manifested in standing up when a lady enters a room, opening or holding a door, conceding preference or rights of way, giving up a seat, offering a hand when stepping down from a steep step, etc. It is generally reserved for older women, or women of great power, merit, and social stature. Rejecting these types of friendly gestures is considered arrogant or rude. ==Connect== Cell phones are the most convenient, and usually most inexpensive, way to talk. Before going to Mexico, call your cell phone provider and verify that you have international roaming enabled (and make sure you know what charges you should expect, for domestic and international voice calls and for data, since you will want to use your maps and Uber apps). You can make international calls free if you have an app like WhatsApp or Telegram and connect to Wi-fi before using it. Data rates can be high for cell phone users, but you can manage them by turning off data in your phone's settings except for when you actively want to use an app. If you're going to be in Mexico for an extended period of time, it might be cheaper to use Mexican carriers, either by buying a SIM card or a cheap throwaway phone. If you have an unlocked GSM phone, you can buy a prepaid SIM card in Mexico. The most expensive provider Telcel provides good coverage throughout the country. A SIM card for the Telcel brand amigo express is for M$29 (Nov 2021) e.g., in an Oxxo store. The first recharge must be at least M$50 (Nov 2021). The offers are amongst others:<br> • M$50: 400MB for 7 days (Nov 2021)<br> • M$100: 1,3GB for 15 days (Nov 2021)<br> You can see all rates and recharge [https://www.telcel.com/personas/telefonia/amigo/paquetes-end/paquetes-amigo-sin-limite here]. Recharging Telcel can be also done in an Oxxo. Cheaper providers unfortunately may not be worth the hassle due to slow internet and unreliable connection. Using a Mexican SIM card is often far cheaper than what hotels will charge you for outgoing calls and incoming calls may be free under certain schemes. Mexico operates on the same GSM frequency as the United States, 1900&nbsp;MHz. There's also 4G LTE, with 5G expected to be deployed in the future. Many of which are the same frequencies as in the US. There is a wireless internet connection in almost every restaurant in the big cities. If you're staying for over a week and don't have an unlocked phone, it might be a good idea to buy a cheap handset and a prepaid card. Some areas have only a few internet cafes; in others, they are plentiful. Most of the internet cafes offer calls to the US for a better rate than a payphone, usually via VoIP. You can call from public phones using ''tarjetas ladatel'' (prepaid telephone cards), bought at magazine stalls. Cards can be purchased in M$30, 50 or 100 denominations. The rate to call the US is roughly equivalent to US$0.50 per minute. Beware these are different than tarjetas ''amigo, viva,'' or ''unefon'' (these are only for cellphones). Ladatel cards are becoming increasingly difficult to find and use because public pay phones are an endangered species. While they worked great in 2002, they're seldom useful in 2022. Cell phones are the way to go today. ==Go next== ===To Belize=== There are bus services available from [[Chetumal]] to [[Belmopan]]. ===To Guatemala=== This route is not used by many and still has a touch of adventure: Over Tenosique, La Palma (near Tenosique), by boat on the river Rio San Pedro to [[El Naranjo]] in [[Guatemala]]. Stay firm when negotiating over the price. Absolutely important: Make sure you get your passport stamped before you leave El Naranjo, or you might catch one of the rare buses back and take a walk through the jungle, as the emigration office is partway up the river between the Mexican border and the village. ===To the United States=== The U.S. generally requires a passport for entry. A few express ID cards and trusted traveler cards are also acceptable. U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking entry or reentry by land or sea may use an Enhanced Driver License in place of a passport. U.S. permanent residents need their permanent resident card and may need the passport from their home country. Foreign nationals entering the United States without a permanent resident stamp, including those on the Visa Waiver Program, typically receive an I-94 Arrival-Departure Record or I-94W Visa Waiver Arrival-Departure Record upon arrival in the United States. So long as the I-94 has not expired, you can use it to re-enter the United States with your passport; however, if you hand it in upon exit, you will need to obtain a new card if your visa allows another entry or, if on the Visa Waiver Program, pay a fee of about US$6 to reenter the United States. Unless you are not going to return to the United States, '''keep your I-94 when leaving the [[United States]]''' or you will have a difficult time getting back in, and if your visa is limited to a certain number of entries, you may need to use another entry. Visa Waiver participants cannot reset the 90-day counter unless they leave North America, so ducking into Mexico will not allow you another 90 days. However, it can be reset by travelling, for example, to any Central American country or to Colombia. {{geo|21|-100|zoom=5}} {{isPartOf|North America}} {{outlinecountry}} {{related|Driving_in_Mexico}} 8znbntuy7v4ka0ychkkpzjgd98n3jna 5091305 5091304 2025-07-11T10:23:12Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091305 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Teotihuacan Wikivoyage banner.jpg|pgname=Mexico|caption=Teotihuacan}} {{other uses}} '''Mexico''' ([[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]: ''México'') is known for its [[Mexican cuisine|cuisine]], art, archaeology, history, pyramids, music, museums, haciendas, 9,600 km (6,000 mi) of shoreline, superb architecture, weather from snow-capped mountains in the Sierras to rainy jungles in the southeast and desert in the northwest, many golf courses and excellent fishing. Along with [[Chile]], [[Colombia]], and [[Peru]], this once-poor nation is one of the ''Pacific Pumas'', seeing significant economic growth and improved infrastructure during the 21st century. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Mexico regions map.png | regionmaptext=Mexico's regions | regionmapsize=401px | region1name=[[Baja California]] | region1color=#65b99f | region1items=[[Baja California (state)|Baja California]], [[Baja California Sur]] | region1description=The vast western peninsula, stretching 1,200 km from Tijuana on the US border to Cabo in the south. A land of deserts and undiscovered beaches. One of the biggest whale migrations takes place here every year from December to April. Also includes the far-off-shore [[Guadalupe Island]]. | region2name=[[Northern Mexico]] | region2color=#b9ad60 | region2items=[[Chihuahua (state)|Chihuahua]], [[Coahuila]], [[Durango (state)|Durango]], [[Nuevo León]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Sonora]], [[Tamaulipas]] | region2description=The expansive deserts and mountains of the border states; mostly ignored by tourists. Culturally and physically a world away from the tropical south. Includes the bustling industrial city of Monterrey, Mexico's 3rd largest and most affluent, and Copper Canyon, the country's only railroad passing through gorges and indigenous villages. | region3name=[[Bajío|The Bajío]] | region3color=#a463ad | region3items=[[Aguascalientes (state)|Aguascalientes]], [[Guanajuato (state)|Guanajuato]], [[Zacatecas (state)|Zacatecas]], [[San Luis Potosi (state)|San Luis Potosí]], [[Querétaro (state)|Querétaro]] | region3description=The former colonial heartland, this is one of Mexico's most historic regions filled with well-preserved colonial towns that grew rich from silver mining. Includes [[San Miguel de Allende]] and [[Guanajuato]] amongst other lesser known towns. | region4name=[[Central Mexico]] | region4color=#a95858 | region4items=[[Hidalgo]], [[Mexico City]], [[Mexico State]], [[Morelos]], [[Puebla (state)|Puebla]], [[Tlaxcala (state)|Tlaxcala]], [[Veracruz (state)|Veracruz]] | region4description=Mexico City, always the political, cultural and economic center of the country with a sophisticated urban core and a huge urban sprawl surrounding it. Also includes the awesome ruins of Teotihuacan, the historic city of Puebla and Veracruz, one of the country's most overlooked regions. | region5name=[[Pacific Coast (Mexico)|Pacific Coast]] | region5color=#73abab | region5items=[[Colima (state)|Colima]], [[Guerrero]], [[Jalisco]], [[Michoacan]], [[Nayarit]], [[Oaxaca (state)|Oaxaca]] | region5description=Tropical beaches on Mexico's southern coast; Jalisco the birthplace of mariachi and Tequila; Guadalajara, the nation's second largest city; and the Oaxacan highlands, famous for their distinct cuisine. | region6name=[[Yucatán and the South]] | region6color=#67a864 | region6items=[[Campeche (state)|Campeche]], [[Chiapas]], [[Quintana Roo]], [[Tabasco]], [[Yucatán]] | region6description=Jungle and impressive Mayan archaeological sites, along with the Caribbean and Gulf coast with well-known resorts like Tulum and Cancun. The colonial city of Merida and the jungle ruins of Palenque. Geographically isolated from the rest of the country, part of Central America (the dividing line being the Isthmus of Tehuantepec), it is culturally closer to Guatemala and Belize than the rest of Mexico, where Mayan culture is very much alive. }} ==Cities== {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#65b99f|title=[[Baja California]]|wikidata=Q58731,Q46508}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b9ad60|title=[[Northern Mexico]]|wikidata=Q655,Q53079,Q79918,Q15282,Q80252,Q46422,Q80007}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a463ad|title=[[Bajío|The Bajío]]|wikidata=Q79952,Q46475,Q80269,Q78980,Q79754}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a95858|title=[[Central Mexico]]|wikidata=Q80903,Q1489,Q82112,Q66117,Q79923,Q82681,Q60130}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#73abab|title=[[Pacific Coast (Mexico)|Pacific Coast]]|wikidata=Q61309,Q60158,Q13160,Q79861,Q79920,Q34110}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#67a864|title=[[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]|wikidata=Q80908,Q60123,Q80245,Q80914,Q60176}} {{Mapframe|22.53|-102.55|zoom=4}} [[File:Plaza de la Constitucion Ciudad de Mexico City.jpg|thumbnail|Plaza de la Constitución, also known as Zocalo, Mexico City]] <includeonly>THIS LIST SHOULD ONLY INCLUDE 9 CITIES - DO NOT ADD OR REPLACE CITIES WITHOUT FIRST USING DISCUSSION</includeonly> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mexico City]]|wikidata=Q1489}} – Capital of the republic, one of the three largest cities in the world, and a sophisticated urban hub with a 700-year history. In Mexico City, you will find everything from parks, Aztec ruins, colonial architecture, museums, to nightlife and shopping. <!-- As of November 2021 there are travel warnings for Acapulco and the whole state. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Acapulco]]|wikidata=Q81398}} - A sophisticated urban beach setting known for its top-notch nightlife, elegant dining, and nightmarish traffic. Many of the older (pre-1990s) concrete structures have suffered tropical decay.--> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cancún]]|wikidata=Q8969}} – One of the world's most popular and famous beaches, known for its clear Caribbean waters, its lively party atmosphere, and its wealth of recreational facilities. During the U.S. college Spring Break (mid-Feb to the end of March) it is noted for drinking, sunburns, and debauchery. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Guadalajara]]|wikidata=Q9022}} – A traditional city, capital of [[Jalisco]] state, and the home of mariachi music and tequila. Guadalajara is blessed with perpetual spring weather and its colonial downtown is graceful and sophisticated. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mazatlan]]|wikidata=Q40194}} – Lively Pacific coast town, Mazatlan is a shipping port, a transportation hub with ferries to Baja California, and a beach resort destination with miles of sandy shore. It is a popular U.S. college Spring Break destination due to its variety of affordable lodging options. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Monterrey]]|wikidata=Q81033}} – A large modern city that is the commercial and industrial hub of Northern Mexico. Monterrey enjoys a dry, mountainous setting and is known for its high-quality educational and transportation infrastructure. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[San Luis Potosi]]|wikidata=Q204271}} – A colonial city in central Mexico that was once an important silver producer, but today, relies on manufacturing for its economic base. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taxco]]|wikidata=Q990095}} – In central Mexico west of Cuernavaca, this steep mountain town was once a major silver producer, and now has a strong place in the trade of decorative silver, from cheap fittings to the most elegant jewelry and elaborate castings. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tijuana]]|wikidata=Q124739}} – Mexico's busiest border crossing for pedestrians and private vehicles, and a long-time bargain Mecca for southern Californians due to its proximity to [[San Diego]]. ==Other destinations== [[File:Barranca del Cobre-El Divisadero17-10-2005CIMG3344.jpg|thumbnail|The moon is rising over Copper Canyon]] <!--This section is to include only destinations that are NOT cities/towns.--> * {{marker|name=[[Copper Canyon]]|wikidata=Q674485}} (Barrancas del Cobre) – An exotic destination for travelers looking for a unique remote adventure! An awesome mountain rail ride -- one of the greatest in the world -- takes you upwards over 2,440 m (8000 feet) on the CHEPE, the Chihuahua al Pacifico Railway. Hiking, horseback riding, birding, and Tarahumara Indians. Copper Canyon, the Sierra Madre and the Chihuahuan desert of Mexico. This area is designed for adventurous individuals who will tolerate some rough travel to get to their points of interest (although the famous train ride isn't demanding at all). Copper Canyon, a magnificent remote wilderness is not likely ever to become a mass market destination. * {{marker|name='''Sea of Cortez''' (Gulf of California)|wikidata=Q132811}} – See whale birthings, swim with dolphins, and sea kayak in the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez, along the eastern coast of Baja California, near La Paz. National Geographic says the sunsets at [[San Carlos (Mexico)|San Carlos]] are some of the most spectacular in the world. * {{marker|name=[[Monarch Butterfly Reserves]]|wikidata=Q852546}} – Protected natural areas in the highlands of the state of Michoacán. Millions of butterflies come to the area between November and March of each year, although numbers have declined sharply. This is a {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Chiapas|Sumidero Canyon]]|wikidata=Q60123}} – From docks on the Rio Grijalva (the only major river within Mexico) near [[Tuxtla Gutiérrez]] in Chiapas state, tour launches take you into this steep-walled [[Mexico national parks|National Park]]. You'll likely see vast flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterfowl, as well as crocodiles. * {{marker|name=[[Mexico national parks]]}} - Mexico has 67 national parks; these include protected natural areas and national monuments and historical sites ===Archaeological sites=== [[File:Palace at Palenque.jpg|thumbnail|Palenque]] * {{marker|name=[[Chichen Itza]]|wikidata=Q5859}} – Majestic Mayan city, declared a {{unesco}} in 1988 and was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. * {{marker|name=[[Ek Balam]]|wikidata=Q988570}} – A reconstructed Mayan site, famous for its unique decorated stucco and stone-carved temples that you can climb. * {{marker|name=[[El Tajín]]|wikidata=Q753895}} – In the state of Veracruz near the town of Papantla. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Monte Alban]]|wikidata=Q464899}} – In the state of Oaxaca, a Zapotec site dating from about 500 BC. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Palenque]]|wikidata=Q181427}} – Mayan city in the state of Chiapas, Palenque famous for its elaborate paintings. Also well known for having the largest tract of rainforest in Mexico located in the same area. * {{marker|name=[[Teotihuacan]]|wikidata=Q172613}} – An enormous pre-Columbian site with several large pyramids near Mexico City. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Tulum]]|wikidata=Q277408}} – Mayan coastal city with spectacular Caribbean vistas. Dates from late Mayan period. * {{marker|name=[[Uxmal]]|wikidata=Q213232}} – Impressive Mayan city-state in the Puuc Region, declared a {{unesco}} in 1996. ===Small towns=== The Mexican government has designated more than 100 scenic small towns as '''[[Pueblos Mágicos]]'''. States can apply to have towns added to the carefully curated list, but they must provide sites of genuine tourist value (historical or cultural) and guarantee adequate levels of tourism infrastructure. All Pueblos Magicos are within a few hours drive of a major city that has good airline connections. Some of the Pueblos Magicos (such as [[Tequila]]) are well-known and quite popular. Most are off the beaten path and offer rich opportunities for quiet exploration. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMexico.png}} Mexico, the '''United Mexican States''' (Spanish: ''Estados Unidos Mexicanos''), is one of the most visited countries in the world. Much of the tourist industry is centered around the beach resorts as well as the ''altiplano'' in the central part of the country. Visiting the northern interior allows visitors to get off the beaten path a bit. U.S. American tourists tend to predominate on the [[Baja California]] peninsula and the more modernized beach resorts ([[Cancún]], [[Puerto Vallarta]]), while European tourists congregate around the smaller resort areas in the south like [[Playa del Carmen]] and colonial towns [[San Cristobal de las Casas]]. Canadians often favor smaller beach resorts like [[Huatulco]] or [[Ixtapa]]. ===Climate=== Mexico uses the [[Metric and Imperial equivalents|metric system]] for all measurements. All weather forecasts are in Celsius (°C). ==== Central and southern Mexico==== April is already the hottest month, especially at the coast and on the Yucatán peninsula. Towns which aren't that hot in April and during the summer are [[Mexico City]], [[Toluca]]/[[Metepec]], [[San Cristobal de las Casas]], [[Pachuca]] and [[Zacatecas]]. Hurricanes can be common in the coastal cities specially those near the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. ====Northern Mexico ==== It gets rather cold during the winter except on the coast. There is sometimes snow in certain places like the Sierra Madre of Chihuahua, Durango, Coahuila, Nuevo León and northern Tamaulipas. Northern Mexico gets very hot during the summer with sudden violent storms in the afternoon, with heavy rain and hail. The temperatures during the day can exceed 39°C (100°F). Less hot during the summer is Tijuana. ===Landscape=== [[File:Citlalepetl2.JPG|thumbnail|Pico de Orizaba or Citlaltépetl is Mexico's highest mountain]] High, rugged mountains; low coastal plains; high plateaus; temperate plains with grasslands and Mezquite trees in the northeast, desert and even more rugged mountains in the northwest, tropical rainforests in the south and southeast [[Chiapas]], [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]] semiarid in places like [[Aguascalientes]], [[San Luis Potosí]] and temperate coniferous and deciduous forests in the central part of the country [[Mexico City]], [[Toluca]]. === Holidays === Actual non-working days may shift to the Monday before the holiday, so check an up-to-date calendar. Government offices are closed nationwide on official holidays and on election days. {| class="wikitable" !Date !Name !Things to know !Official? |- |January 1 |New Year's Day (''Año Nuevo'') | |official |- |January 6 |Epiphany (''Día de los Reyes Magos'') |Celebrating arrival of the Three Wise Men to see and bring gifts to the baby Jesus |not official |- |February 2 |Candlemas (''Día de la Candelaria'') |Catholic holiday related to Christmas |not official |- |First Monday of February |Constitution Day |For the events of 1917 |official |- |February 24 |Flag Day (''Día de la Bandera'') | |not official |- |Monday on or before March 21 |Birth of Benito Juárez |Mexico's first president of indigenous origin. |official |- |March or April |Easter (''Pascua'') |Easter is widely observed nationwide, according to the yearly Catholic calendar (the first Sunday after the first full moon in Spring). | |- |April 30 |Children's Day (''Día del Niño'') | | |- |May 1 |Labor Day (''Día del Trabajo'' ) | |official |- |May 5 |Cinco de Mayo |For the Battle of Puebla against the French army in 1862. Visitors from the U.S. may be surprised to learn that it is not a major holiday in Mexico, and is not much celebrated by locals, except in the [[Puebla (state)|state of Puebla]]. |not official |- |May 10 |Mother's Day |A particularly important family-centric holiday. Some cities hold parades. Offices may be closed, restaurants will be packed full, and mariachi bands will race from one family to the next. If you are visiting someone's home, bring flowers for the mothers and grandmothers. | |- |May 15 |Teacher's Day (''Día del Maestro'') |A day to appreciate schoolteachers. Some schools close and others have special activities. |not official |- |September 1 |Presidential Address Day | | |- |September 15 |Cry of Dolores (''Grito de Dolores'') |A patriotic holiday to celebrate the first event of the Mexican War of Independence in 1810, especially in the city of [[Dolores Hidalgo]] |not official |- |September 16 |Independence Day |Celebrates the start of the 11-year-long fight for the independence from Spain that began in 1810 |official |- |October 12 |Day of the Race (''Día de la Raza'') |Related to Columbus' arrival in the Americas in 1492 |not official |- |November 2 |[[Day of the Dead]](''Día de Muertos'') |The Mexican answer to Halloween celebrates family and friends who have died. Expect sugar candy shaped like skulls and ''pan de muerto'' (a somewhat sweet type of white bread). |not official |- |Third Monday of November |Mexican Revolution Day |For the events of 1910. |official |- |December 12 |Virgin Mary of Guadalupe Day |A Catholic religious holiday, and one of the most important Mexican holidays |not official |- |December 24 |Christmas Eve (''Nochebuena'') |Normally a full non-working day. Usually a family-centered evening. May be preceded by nine days of parties in the evenings, called ''Las Posadas'' ("the inns")''.'' |not official |- |December 25 |Christmas (''Navidad'') | |official |- |December 31 |New Year's Eve |Normally a full non-working day. Expect firecrackers and lots of noise at midnight. |not official |} ===Time=== [[File:Mexico time zones map en.svg|300px|thumbnail|Mexican time zones]] The 24-hour clock system has traditionally been used for time keeping. Today, both the 24-hour clock and the 12-hour clock are commonly used (roughtly equally), though the younger generation seems more inclined to express times using the 12-hour clock. Mexico uses these four time zones: * '''Northwest Zone''' (UTC−8, corresponds to U.S. Pacific Time): [[Baja California (state)]] * '''Pacific Zone''' (UTC−7, corresponds to U.S. Mountain Time): [[Baja California Sur]], [[Chihuahua (state)]], [[Nayarit]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Sonora]] * '''Central Zone''' (UTC−6, corresponds to U.S. Central Time): The rest of the country, except [[Quintana Roo]] * '''Southeastern Zone''' (UTC−5, corresponds to U.S. Eastern Time): [[Quintana Roo]] Most of Mexico is on standard time year round. Daylight savings time is observed only in a few places. Communities on the U.S. border, except in Sonora, observe DST on the U.S. schedule. The state of Baja California also observes DST on the U.S. schedule (but Baja California Sur does not). ===History=== ====Pre-Columbian==== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica}} Among the earliest complex civilizations in Mexico was the '''Olmec''' culture that flourished on the Gulf Coast in 1500 BCE. Olmec culture diffused through Mexico into formative era cultures in Chiapas, Oaxaca and the Valley of Mexico. In Central Mexico the height of the classical period saw the ascendancy of Teotihuacan, which formed a military and commercial empire. It had the largest structures of pyramids built in the pre-Columbian Americas. During the early post-classic Mexico was dominated by '''Toltec culture''', and the lowland '''Maya''' had important areas at Calakmul and Chichen Itza. At the end of the post-Classical period, the '''Aztecs''' built a tributary empire covering most of Central Mexico. The Mesoamerican cultural traditions ended in the 16th century and over the next centuries, Mexican indigenous cultures were under Spanish colonial rule. However, contrary to popular misconceptions neither the Maya nor the Aztec culture ever entirely "disappeared" and to this day many Mexicans trace at least part of their heritage to indigenous roots and language such as Nahuatl and numerous Maya tongues are still spoken by hundreds of thousands or even millions of Mexicans. Indigenous elements are visible even today in loanwords in Mexican Spanish, traditional dress, Mexican cuisine, architecture and even religious observances (nominally "catholic" to varying degrees). The eagle and the snake on a cactus depicted on the Mexican flag, for example, refers to an Aztec legend about the founding of Tenochtitlan, the city that now is Mexico City. ====Colonial and early independence==== {{main|Colonial Mexico}} Mexico remained under Spanish colonial rule until 1821 when it declared independence under the terms of "Plan of Iguala". After the short lived Mexican empire of 1821-1823 (former Spanish general and independence hero Augustin de Iturbide briefly declared himself emperor but was overthrown after two years) Mexico became a republic with a fragile balance of powers between liberals (allied mostly with urban merchants) and conservatives (allied with the church and big landholders) and Antonio López de Santa Anna became president several times while also being overthrown by his opponents several times thus having eight non-consecutive terms as president as well as five "permanent" exiles. ====Independent Mexico==== {{main|Mexican War of Independence}} The early Mexican state was anything but stable. Texas (under the leadership of US-American immigrants who wanted to make Texas a slave-holding state of the US) and Yucatán seceded at several points. Maya rebels fought against both the Yucatán independence movement and the federal government in the so-called "Caste war". After Texas gained ''de facto'' independence a disagreement as to its southern border (the Nueces river as claimed by Mexico or the Rio Grande as claimed by Texas) led to the involvement of the US in a brief war that ended in a devastating defeat for Mexico (the line about the "halls of Montezuma" in the marines' song refers to the presidential palace in Mexico city that was conquered by the US) and the loss of Alta California (now the US state of California), Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico as well as the definite loss of Texas north of the Rio Grande. The ceded territories were rapidly colonized by immigrants from Europe and the eastern United States; see [[Old West]]. ====French intervention and Second Mexican empire==== {{main|Post-Independence Mexico}} In 1861, when president Benito Juarez suspended the payment of Mexico's debt, France decided to invade the country in order to regain some or all of its money. This was only possible because the United States, which had declared in its Monroe Doctrine that it wouldn't tolerate any European intervention in the sovereign states of the Americas, started its [[American Civil War|Civil War]] that same year. After overthrowing the government (though Mexican resistance against the occupiers never ceased) the French installed a Habsburg prince as emperor Maximilian I to act as their puppet. While the Mexican monarchy had some support among conservatives its days were numbered when the French troops were withdrawn after the end of the American Civil war, and in 1867, Maximilian was executed by firing squad. Cinco de Mayo, which in the US is often mistaken to be "Mexican independence day", is celebrated in remembrance of the battle of [[Puebla]] that occurred during the French occupation and was decisively won by Mexican republican forces. ====Benito Juárez==== [[File:Estatua de Benito Juárez.jpg|thumb|Statue of Benito Juárez in [[Hidalgo]]]] Benito Juárez was the first president of indigenous descent in all of Latin America and is one very few figures that is still almost exclusively seen as a positive figure in Mexican history. He was president from 1858 to 1864 and again from 1867 to his death in 1872. His saying "el respeto al derecho ajeno es la paz" (respect for the rights of others is peace) is still frequently quoted. ====Porfirio Díaz==== Porfirio Díaz, a general during the French intervention rose to power shortly after the death of Juárez and ruled Mexico from 1876 to 1911. While initially willing and able to reform and modernize the country, the sheer length of his reign and his corruption led to a lot of unhappiness about his government and in 1911 the Mexican revolution broke out to unseat him from power, but it soon devolved into factional fighting between various claimants for power and attempts at radical social and economic reform. ====The Mexican Revolution==== {{main|Mexican Revolution}} The Mexican Revolution was a complex civil war and period of political intrigue and treachery. The Revolution started in 1910 with resistance against a blatantly fraudulent election manipulated by Porfirio Díaz. The Revolution really ignited into full-scale war when the elected president (Madero) was assassinated by Díaz loyalists. Several factions had different complaints about Díaz and his corrupt, never-ending dictatorship. Groups loyal to Venustiano Carranza wanted constitutional reforms. Groups loyal to Emiliano Zapata wanted land reforms and rights for the indigenous. Other groups demanded an end to resource giveaways to foreign industrial interests, while others demanded an end to excessive power of the Catholic church. The groups eventually coalesced behind the Constitutionalists and stable government was restored by 1920. ====Under the PRI==== {{main|Modern Mexico}} Once the dust of the revolution had settled the Revolutionary Institutional Party (PRI [pronounced /pree/] for its Spanish name) became the dominant political force and all presidents before the early 1990s were members of the PRI. They did not establish a one party state and other parties were still legal and participated in elections. However, the success of the PRI candidate (especially at the federal level) was almost always a given. As such, political power struggles mostly took place within the PRI, with more conservative or left wing factions gaining the upper hand from time to time. In 1988, during a presidential election that was actually close for the first time in decades, a computer that counted the votes supposedly crashed. The words with which this was announced "se cayó el sistema" are noted for their ambiguity as they can mean either "the computer broke down" or "the (political) system fell". Nonetheless, according to the official result (which was and still is doubted by many), the PRI candidate won a six-year term in office just narrowly surpassing the 50% threshold needed to avoid a runoff election. In 2000 the PRI finally lost its first presidential election when Vicente Fox of the conservative National Action Party (PAN) won a narrow victory in a three-way race. In 2006 the PAN won again with Felipe Calderon being elected president but in 2012 the PRI returned to power with Enrique Peña Nieto, who promised to end the drug war being elected to the presidency. Whether this proves temporary or the PRI has indeed regained its once dominant status, remains yet to be seen. ====Mexico today==== {{main|Modern Mexico}} Despite problems such as corruption and the drug war in the North (with some areas under ''de facto'' control of different cartels), Mexico has grown steadily, and there have been democratic multiparty elections with peaceful transition of power. A fairly stable three party system has emerged: the PAN (conservative) and PRI (centrist, catch all, sometimes leftist) have each won the presidency several times and the PRD (left of the PRI) has been a serious contender in almost all elections. The drug war is ongoing and some parts of the country are not entirely safe, but the situation has bettered a lot after the 2000s. Generally the North with cities such as Ciudad Juarez notorious for their violence is more dangerous than the south and Yucatán is among the safest regions in Latin America. For more on the effects of the drug war see the stay safe section of this article and the individual region articles. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) assumed power on December 1, 2018, after waging a populist, anti-corruption campaign and winning the 2018 election with more than a 30% margin over his next closest opponent. He is the leader of the center-left National Regeneration Movement (MORENA). Having had a reputation as a leftist firebrand in the past, AMLO has moderated his politics in order to appeal to a wider share of the electorate, though he remains a solidly left-leaning, populist politician. Under his leadership, Mexico has served as a moderator in wider Latin American politics, for example, in the Venezuelan and Bolivian crises, while also navigating relations with the United States government over trade and migrant issues. In 2024, Mexico elected Claudia Sheinbaum as its first female and first Jewish president to succeed AMLO. ===Visitor information === *[https://visitmexico.com/eng/home-2 Visit Mexico] website ==Get in== {{cautionbox| Mexico charges M$390 (2016) per person that has spent more than 7 days (inclusive) in the country, e.g., 1st to 7th is 7 days. Payable on exit whatever the mode of transportation. On entrance, officials may say that 7 days is non-inclusive but you will find out otherwise when you exit the country. If you flew into Mexico on a commercial flight, the cost of your plane ticket already included the tourism tax and you absolutely do ''not'' need to pay it again upon exiting. You will need to prove to the border officials that you have already paid, by showing the following: #Your FMM card you received upon arrival, and #An itemized receipt from your flight purchase showing the Tourism Tax Certain foreign nationals who can enter Mexico with only a passport and FMM Card, and stay up to 180 days as tourists (30 days for business travelers) are no longer granted the full 180 days by default as is it was in the past. Always check your passport stamp and FMM card upon arrival to determine how many days are granted before walking away from the immigration counter. Ask the immigration officer if you cannot read the handwriting to be sure how many days you are granted to stay in the country. NEVER assume that you are granted the full 180 days or they will automatically tell you if you are given less than 180 days. You can arbitrarily be granted any number of days from 3 to the full 180 days depending on the whim of the immigration officer who can also check for an onward ticket out of Mexico, hotel reservations, proof of funds, etc. Travelers have reported to have been detained for over-staying the less than 180 day time allotted to them when they entered and it is uncertain how long the travelers are/will be detained (at any length of time) before deportation out of Mexico. The immigration authorities and military do set up random checkpoints in the interior to stop passing traffic and check the travelers' ID cards (Mexican nationals) and the visa status of foreign nationals.}} ===Visa and other entrance requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Mexico.png|thumb|450px|Visa policy of Mexico]] [[File:Mexico entry.png|thumb|Mexican entry stamp]] According to the [http://www.sre.gob.mx/english/ Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Secretaria de Relaciones Exteriores)]{{Dead link|date=October 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, certain foreign nationals who intend to stay in Mexico fewer than 180 days for the purpose of tourism or 30 days for business can fill out a tourist card at the border or upon landing at an airport after presenting a valid passport, for US$22. If arriving via air, it is included in the price of the fare. This service is available to citizens of [[Andorra]], [[Argentina]], [[Aruba]], [[Australia]], [[Austria]], [[Bahamas]], [[Barbados]], [[Belgium]], [[Belize]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[Colombia]], [[Costa Rica]], [[Cyprus]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Denmark]], [[Estonia]], [[Finland]], [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Great Britain]], [[Greece]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Hungary]], [[Ireland]], [[Iceland]], [[Israel]], [[Italy]], [[Jamaica]], [[Japan]], [[Latvia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Lithuania]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Macau]], [[Malaysia]], [[Malta]], [[Marshall Islands]], [[Micronesia]], [[Monaco]], [[Netherlands]], [[New Zealand]], [[Norway]], [[Palau]], [[Panama]], [[Paraguay]], [[Peru]], [[Poland]], [[Portugal]], [[Puerto Rico]], [[Romania]], [[San Marino]], [[Singapore]], [[Slovakia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Spain]], [[South Korea]], [[Sweden]], [[Switzerland]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[United States of America|United States]] and [[Uruguay]] (see official list [https://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/Paises_No_Visa/en.html here]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}). Permanent residents of the United States, Canada, Japan, United Kingdom, and Schengen area countries are also eligible for visas on arrival regardless of citizenship. The Mexican tourist card is a ''Forma Migratoria Múltiple'' (Multiple Immigration Form), or FMM. It has a perforation that divides the card into two parts, of which the right side asks for some of the same information requested on the left side. At entry, after reviewing your passport and filled-out FMM, the immigration officer will stamp your passport and the FMM, separate the FMM along the perforation and give the right side of the FMM back to you with your passport. The paper tourist card is being phased out. At many ports of entry (including [[Benito Juárez International Airport|Mexico City's international airport]]), you will not have to complete a paper form. Rather, the immigration officer will stamp your passport. A digital version of the tourist card (FMMd, ''Forma Migratoria Múltiple Digital'') will be generated for you, which can be downloaded from [https://www.inm.gob.mx/spublic/portal/inmex.html the website]. If you have a paper FMM, keep it with your passport at all times. It is your responsibility to make sure the right side of the FMM is returned to the Mexican government at time of departure so that the bar code can be scanned, thus showing that you left the country on time. For example, if you are flying with Aeromexico, they will ask for your passport and FMM at check-in for your flight home, then staple your FMM to your boarding pass. You are expected to then hand the boarding pass together with your FMM to the gate agent as you board your flight. If you lose your FMM during your visit to Mexico, you may be subject to substantial delays and fines before you can leave the country. [https://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/Inicio_Autorizacion_Electronica/en.html Electronic Authorization System (SAE, Autorización Electrónica)]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for travelling to Mexico is available on the Internet for nationals from [[Russia]], [[Turkey]], and [[Ukraine]]. Russians, Ukrainians, and Turkish citizens with permanent residency or a valid visa to Canada, the US, Japan, the UK, or any Schengen country don't need an SAE. Other nationalities must contact a Mexican consulate in order to find out the requirements for citizens of their country, and may have to apply for and obtain a visa in advance of travel. If you are in need of other information, Mexico has diplomatic offices in the following cities around the world. The consulates in the USA are typically open for business to non-citizens (by telephone or in-person) only from 08:30 to 12:30. If you cross the border via road, do not expect the authorities to automatically signal you to fill out your paperwork. You will have to locate the border office yourself. The immigration officer at your point of entry into Mexico can request that you demonstrate that you have sufficient economic solvency. The immigration officer can demand a round trip ticket. Be advised if you only booked a one-way ticket to Mexico: The airline may want to see a ticket that carries you out of Mexico, especially when flying from an equally or less developed country than Mexico – also if your passport is from a highly industrialized nation. It could be that the airline wants to see that onward ticket as "early" as at the gate, where you may not have enough time to buy one. So have at least an onward ticket from specialized websites for around US$10 (Nov 2021) ready when heading to the airport for your flight for Mexico. If you do not intend to travel past the "border zone" and your stay does not exceed three days, U.S. and Canadian nationals require only a proof of citizenship. Reentry into the United States generally requires a passport, but a U.S. or Canadian Enhanced Drivers License (or Enhanced Photo ID) or U.S. passport card is acceptable for reentry by land or sea. ===By plane=== [[File:Fila Aeroméxico.JPG|thumbnail|Aeromexico planes at Benito Juarez International Airport]] ====From the United States and Canada==== There are hundreds of daily flights linking Mexico to cities large and small throughout North America. This includes legacy carriers such as Air Canada, Aeromexico, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta, and discount airlines such as JetBlue, Spirit, WestJet, and Southwest Airlines. Also to be considered are the Mexican discount carriers '''Volaris''', which operate from several major US cities through their hubs in [[Mexico City]] and [[Guadalajara]], and '''Viva Aerobus''', which also operates from several major US cities through hubs in [[Mexico City]] and [[Monterrey]]. '''United Airlines'''/'''United Express''' fly to many smaller market Mexican cities and resort areas, including Aguascaliente, Chihuahua, Ciudad de Carmen, Durango, Huatulco, Leon/Guanajuato, Oaxaca, Merida, San Luis Potosi, Torreon, Tampico, Veracruz and Villahermosa. As in the United States and Canada, you will have to clear immigration ''and'' customs at your first Mexican port of entry, even though that airport may not be your final destination. (For example, many trips on Aeromexico will involve connecting through its Mexico City hub.) You will then have to re-check your bags and go through security again to proceed to your next flight segment. ====From Australia or New Zealand==== Fly from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne or Auckland (NZ) direct to Los Angeles on American Airlines, Delta, Qantas, and United. Air New Zealand offers one-stop air service from Australia and non-stop air service from Auckland to Los Angeles. Hawaiian Airlines and Air Tahiti Nui offer one- or two-stop air service to Los Angeles from Australia and New Zealand. Many airlines continue from [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles]] to Mexico including AeroMexico/Aeromexico Connect, Alaska Airlines, Volaris, United and Virgin America, some of which have interline or alliance ticketing and baggage check through. More options are available if connecting through another US city. Also, make sure to have a good look at visas beforehand – even just for transit you will need something for the US, and if you get a visa waiver, they treat Mexico as part of the US, meaning if you stay longer than 90 days in Mexico, you will need to travel further south before returning to the US. ====From Europe==== Most commercial airlines link Mexico directly from Europe. There are direct flights to [[Benito Juarez International Airport|Mexico City]] ({{IATA|MEX}}) and [[Cancun#By plane|Cancun]] ({{IATA|CUN}}) from Paris ({{IATA|CDG}}), [[London#By plane|London]] ({{IATA|LON}}), Madrid ({{IATA|MAD}}), [[Schiphol Airport|Amsterdam]] ({{IATA|AMS}}), and [[Frankfurt airport|Frankfurt]] ({{IATA|FRA}}). Some carriers will serve both Mexico City and Cancun while others will only serve one and not the other (usually only to Cancun such as those from Russia and Italy). Additional flights to Cancun from Europe may only be available as charters and some may operate during the winter months (December–February) only. It is always worth to compare flight offers from air carriers and charter companies who can bring you to Mexico City or Cancun via many European hubs. The flight duration from those cities is always approximately 11 hours. ===By train=== From the United States to Mexico the nearest '''[http://www.amtrak.com Amtrak]''' stations are in [[San Diego#By train|San Diego]], [[Yuma#By train|Yuma]], [[Del Rio#By rail|Del Rio]] and [[El Paso#By train|El Paso]]. The frequent ''[http://www.pacificsurfliner.com Pacific Surfliner]'' connects San Diego from [[San Luis Obispo]] via [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]]; while the ''[http://www.amtrak.com/sunset-limited-train Sunset Limited]'' and ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/texas-eagle-train.html Texas Eagle]'' pass by Yuma, El Paso and Del Rio between [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Antonio]]. In San Antonio the ''Texas Eagle'' continues northwards towards [[Chicago]] while the ''Sunset Limited'' continues east to [[New Orleans#By train|New Orleans]]. Amtrak trains do not cross the border into Mexico so passengers continue to the border by local public transportation or by taxi from the Amtrak station. The '''Tren Maya''' has a station along the [[Belize]] border in the city of [[Chetumal]]. Buses are available there for onward travel to [[Mérida (Mexico)|Merida]], [[Cancún]] or other destinations in the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]. The Tren Maya also has two stops near the [[Guatemala]] border (at El Triunfo and at Boca del Cerro), but neither have scheduled transportation to any Guatemalan destinations. ===By car=== [[File:SanYsidroBorderCrossingByPhilKonstantin.jpg|thumbnail|Crossing into Mexico from the U.S. near Tijuana]] American automobile insurance is not accepted in Mexico; however, it is easy to obtain short-term or long-term tourist policies that include the mandatory liability coverage, theft and accident coverage for your vehicle, and often, legal assistance coverage. Should you decide to drive to Mexico, the [http://www.sct.gob.mx/ Transport and Communications Secretariat website] has free downloadable road maps. Foreign-plated vehicles must obtain necessary permits before being allowed into the interior of Mexico. This can be done at the border checkpoints by showing your vehicle title or registration, as well as immigration documents and a valid credit card. It is now possible to apply for your vehicle import permit online. Vehicle permits will only be issued to the registered owner of the vehicle, so the papers will have to be in the name of the applicant. The Baja California peninsula and the northern part of the State of Sonora do not require a permit. Driving a '''rental car''' from the United States into Mexico is possible with some of the large multinational companies, but the process is rather cumbersome. You will need to inform your car rental company in advance and purchase additional Mexican insurance (since U.S. car insurance does not cover Mexico), and you cannot drive beyond the border region into the interior of Mexico. You also cannot drop off a U.S. rental car in Mexico, and must return to the U.S. to drop it off. In the reverse direction, Mexican rental cars are usually not permitted to be driven into the U.S. Due to the contraband crossing the US-Mexico border (drugs and illegal immigration into the US, drug money and weapons into Mexico), expect long delays and thorough searches of vehicles when crossing the border. At some of the busiest crossings, expect a waiting time of 1–3 hours. ===By bus=== ''See main article, [[Bus travel in Mexico]]''. Buses are the most widely used transportation system in Mexico with routes going to all parts of the country. Long-distance buses are very comfortable and affordable. All border crossings have bus stations where buses can take you to interior cities, often to large bus terminals providing connections to virtually any major city or tourist destination. From the southern United States, many companies provide trans-border service with modern, comfortable buses that cross the border. You can take a bus from [[Chicago]] all the way to [[Mexico City]], though some companies will only take you to the border region where you can connect to a domestic Mexican bus company for onward travel to the interior of Mexico. A list of these companies is in [[Bus travel in Mexico]]. Buses are also available from Central America into Mexico. These buses usually go to [[Tapachula]], where you can connect to domestic Mexican bus companies for onward travel to the interior. Buses from [[Belize City]] will take you to [[Chetumal]] where you can connect to a Mexican bus or to the Tren Maya for onward rail journeys. ===By boat=== * Border crossing from [[Guatemala]]. * Cruise ships from the United States. ==Get around== Travelling in Mexico is most practical by bus, car, or air. Passenger transport by train is possible in some areas. most extensively in the Yucatán Peninsula, with its modern ''Tren Maya'' service. The '''Chihuahua del Pacifico''' railroad is one of the most scenic railroads in the world, passing through the Copper Canyon, and departing from Los Mochis on the Pacific coast, or Creel in the east. They cross each other roughly midways at '''Divisadero and Barrancas''' Copper Canyon stations at an altitude of 2100&nbsp;m (7000&nbsp;ft). ===By car=== {{main|Driving in Mexico}} [[File:Highway120PinalAmoles.JPG|thumbnail|Highway 120 passing through the village of Pinal de Amoles]] Due to a government scheme in the early 1990s to create infrastructure, the best roads are toll roads. Toll roads can be relatively costly but are much faster and better maintained. First-class buses generally travel by toll roads (and the toll is included in the ticket price). US vehicle insurance is not valid in Mexico. Mexican auto insurance has been required since 2018; if you have even a minor accident without insurance, you could land in jail. [http://www.mexipass.com/ MexiPass] and AAA offer Mexican auto insurance. When traveling on Mexican roads, especially near the borders with the United States and Guatemala, one will probably encounter several checkpoints operated by the Mexican Army searching for illegal weapons and drugs. If you are coming from the United States, you may not be used to this, and it can be intimidating. However, these are rarely a problem for honest people. Simply do what the soldiers tell you to do, and treat them with respect. The best way to show respect when entering a checkpoint is to turn your music down, lift sunglasses from your face, and be prepared to roll your window down. They should treat you with respect as well, and they usually do. If you are asked to unpack any part of your vehicle, do so without complaint. It is their right to make you completely unload in order for them to inspect your cargo. Tourists are often warned about travelling on roads at night. Although ''bandidos'' are rare in more metropolitan areas, err on the side of caution in more rural areas. The best bet is to drive during only daylight hours. Cattle, dogs, and other animals also can appear on the roadway unexpectedly, so if you do have to drive at night, be very cautious. If possible, follow a bus or truck that seems to be driving safely. Foreign drivers' licenses are recognized and recommended. Speeding tickets are common, and to ensure your presence at the hearing, the officer may choose to keep your license. He is within his rights to do so. Beware though, police officers are known to keep driver's licenses until they are given a bribe. At petrol (gas) stations, make sure the pump is zeroed out before the attendant begins pumping your gas so that you don't end up paying more than you should. Good maps are invaluable and the Mexico maps included in "North American Road Atlas" books are worse than useless. The Guia Roji maps are particularly good. If you arrive in Mexico by airplane but would like to drive around the country, all major car rental companies are present in Mexico. However, you must know that they operate under a franchise scheme, and therefore their policies and the overall way to do business are very different than those in other countries. Most of the times they will publish prices that may look very attractive, but may not include insurance, taxes and other mandatory fees, the best thing to do is call in advance to find out the final price to pay. There are some local companies which do include all bells and whistles in their rates, [https://www.veico.com/ Veico Car Rental]. [https://www.citycarrental.com/ City Car Rental] offers good prices and have rental offices as most major cities in Mexico. Throughout the mainland of North America including the Mexico, traffic moves on the right with most cars being left-hand-drive (as in Belize, Guatemala, and the United States of America). The only areas of North America that do not drive on the right are on some Caribbean Islands. ===By plane=== Major airlines hubs for all or several of the airlines are in [[Benito Juarez International Airport|Mexico City-Benito Juarez Airport]], Mexico City-Santa Lucia Airport (NLU), [[Guadalajara#By plane|Guadalajara]], [[Cancún International Airport]], and [[Monterrey#By plane|Monterrey]]. There are additional point to point services from several other cities. Budget airlines offer competitive fares that rival bus travel over long distances. The low-cost airlines are VivaAerobus and Volaris. The main airlines providing service to over 60 cities within Mexico are: * {{listing | type=listing | name=Aeromexico/Aeromexico Connect | alt= | url=http://www.aeromexico.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 5133-4000 (MX) | tollfree=+1-800-237-6639 (US) | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=It is the 'national' and 'legacy' carrier with hubs in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. It is also a member of the SkyTeam Alliance. }} * {{listing | name=Magnicharters | alt= | url=http://www.magnicharters.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 5678-1000, +52 55 5678-3600 (DF), +52 81 2282-9620, +52 2282-9621 (MTY) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-21 | content=Headquartered in Mexico City, their major hubs are in Monterrey and Mexico City. Primary destinations are resort areas preferred by leisure travelers, such as Cancun or Puerto Vallarta. They also offer flights from Las Vegas and Orlando in the U.S. and from Cancun to Havana, Cuba. }} * {{listing | name=Mexicana | alt= | url=https://www.mexicana.gob.mx/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-11-04 | content=In 2023, the Mexican government resurrected the formerly bankrupt carrier and will operate it as a state airline. Mexicana will initially focus on domestic routes only, serving all major cities and resort areas in Mexico. The airline operates on a hub and spoke model with all flights originating or ending at Mexico City - Aeropuerto Internacional Felipe Angeles (AIFA) ({{IATA|NLU}}) in the northern suburb of Santa Lucia. Additional routes will be added via a second hub at Tulum International Airport ({{IATA|TQO}}) in early 2024. }} * {{listing | name=VivaAerobus | alt= | url=http://www.vivaaerobus.com/mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Low-cost, Ryanair-like airline with hubs in Cancun, Monterrey, Mexico City and Guadalajara and new focus cities in Merida and Puebla, and service from the USA. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Volaris | alt= | url=https://www.volaris.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 1102-8000 | tollfree=+1 855 865-2747 (US) | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Hubs are in Mexico City, Tijuana and Guadalajara with focus cities in Cancun, Monterrey and Leon. They also have an additional hub in San Jose Costa Rica and a focus city in Los Angeles, outside of Mexico. They have services to cities in the U.S., Costa Rica, El Salvador and Nicaragua. }} There are also small airlines operating within certain areas such as: * {{listing | name=Aerus | alt= | url=https://flyaerus.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 811 495 5340 (only WhatsApp) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-07-12 | content=Regional airline based in [[Monterrey]] serving Northern Mexico and the Gulf Coast, including destinations in Tamaulipas, Veracruz, and Tabasco. }} * {{listing | name=Calafia Airlines | alt= | url=https://www.calafiaairlines.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 619 489-1439 (US) | tollfree=01 800 5603949 (MX) | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Operates scheduled flights between cities in the Baja California Peninsula and from the Baja California Peninsula to Chihuahua, Jalisco, Sonora and Sinaloa states. It connects the Baja California Peninsula to Leon (Guanajuato), Monterrey (Nuevo Leon), Mexico City and San Luis Potosi, all in the smaller aircraft. It connects Palenque and Tuxtla Gutierrez (Chiapas) to Mexico City and Cancun. It also offers charters and air taxi services. }} * {{listing | name=Aerotucán | alt= | url=https://www.aerotucan.com.mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 952 502-0840 | tollfree=01800 640-4148 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Flies between Oaxaca City, Ciudad Ixtepec, Huatulco and Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca state in small planes. }} * {{listing | name=Señor Air | alt= | url=https://www.senorair.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-07-24 | content=Small regional carrier based out of [[Los Cabos]] ({{IATA|SJD}}) operating a limited route map with service to mainland destinations in Chihuahua, Sinaloa and Jalisco using Embraer aircraft. }} * {{listing | name=TAR | alt= | url=http://www.tarmexico.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 2629-5272 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Hub in Queretaro with focus cities in Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Puerto Vallarta to several destinations nationwide. Operates Embraer regional jets. }} On the Viva Aerobus fares "Zero" and "Light", you cannot check in earlier than 4 hours and 8 hours before departure respectively. As of Nov 2021, the website and app won't tell you that if you try it earlier. Instead giving you a random error message or telling you to check-in at the airport for additional cost, which is not needed. ===By bus=== ==== Intercity buses==== See main article, [[Bus travel in Mexico]] Long-distance buses are an ideal way to experience Mexico. The executive and first-class buses are very modern, clean, and comfortable with bigger seats and more legroom than the first-class cabin of a modern aircraft. Costs are generally low, with first-class tickets costing only slightly more than a much slower second-class bus. All major cities and tourist destinations have good bus service. ==== City buses ==== Most larger cities have a mix of public bus services and privately run bus services. For example, in [[Mexico City]] there are several bus services that are part of the public Metro transportation including large, modern articulated buses that run in dedicated lanes on major arteries, as well as electric buses and traditional buses through most neighborhood. In the city of [[Monterrey]], there are Metrobuses that operate as part of the city's public transit network, often connecting to the Metrorrey subway/light rail stations. There are also more than a dozen private bus companies, usually providing services to a well-defined section of the city. Using the city buses can be complicated, involving various transfers and sometimes multiple providers. Information about these may be in individual destination articles here, but is more reliable in the [https://moovitapp.com/ Moovit] app (available for iPhone or Android). ==== Colectivos, combis, peseros ==== Many cities in Mexico have privately operated van or small bus services that run along popular routes. These go by various names including ''peseros'', ''colectivos'', ''urbans'', or ''combis''. Whatever you call them, they are sometimes vans and sometimes small buses with varying color codes depending on the city you are in and often identifying the operator or route. Usually the route taken is written on cardboard attached to the windshield or with wet and then dried soap or chalk on the windshield listing the local colonias (neighborhoods) and points of interest (Allende, WalMart, Soriana, malls, hospitals, universities, etc.) the routes are not numbered and the schedules are often informal. When a combi gets full, it leaves and won't pick up passengers along the way until somebody gets off. In some cities the pesero stops at marked bus stops while in others bus stops are uncommon and you are expect to signal the bus to pick you up and drop you off wherever you want. If you don't find a stop button in a pesero; just shout the word "baja!" for it to stop. Fares are cheap and vary from M$5-15 (Feb 2022) approximately. ===By carpooling === You can check, if there are rides offered for your route on Blablacar. Especially between bigger cities the chances are good. In order to see the prices in pesos, you need to (re)install the app and choose Mexican pesos. Prices are about 30-50% less than taking an intercity bus. ===By train=== [[File:Tren maya en Mérida Teya 01.jpg|thumb|Tren Maya]] Intercity trains are slowly making a comeback in Mexico, after a 25-year hiatus. The vast majority of cities are not served but as of 2025 a few lines have opened and there are plans for major expansions over the coming years. * [https://www.trenmaya.gob.mx/ ''Tren Maya''] serves the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]] and the [[Riviera Maya]]. The route goes along the Caribbean coast between [[Cancun]] and [[Chetumal]] at the Belize border. It provides access to [[Merida]] and has stations at archaeological sites like [[Chichen Itza]], [[Edzna]], [[Tulum]], and [[Palenque]]. * [https://www.pasajerosinteroceanico.com.mx/ ''Tren Interoceánico''] runs across the Tehuantepec isthmus between [[Salina Cruz]] on the Pacific Ocean and [[Coatzalcocos]] on the Gulf of Mexico coast. Tren Interoceanico has a line that connects Coatzalcocos to [[Palenque]] where passengers can transfer to the Tren Maya. * ''El Insurgente'' is an intercity train in [[Mexico State]] connecting to the [[Mexico City]] Metro at the Observatorio station. ====Tourist trains==== [[File:Copper Canyon Railway.jpg|thumb|''El Chepe'' through the Copper Canyon]] The most famous tourist train in Mexico is the [https://chepe.mx/en/ ''Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico''] (Chihuahua-Pacific Railway or ''El Chepe'') between [[Los Mochis]], [[Sinaloa]], and the town of [[Creel]], [[Chihuahua]], through the gorgeous [[Copper Canyon]]. In the state of Jalisco there are a couple of lines which travel from the state capital city of [[Guadalajara]] to the nearby tequila distilleries in the small town of Amatitlan on the [https://www.tequilaexpress.mx/ ''Tequila Express''] and to the Jose Cuervo distilleries in the town of [[Tequila]] on the [http://www.josecuervoexpress.com ''Jose Cuervo Express'']. There is also a tourist train that runs from [[Tijuana]] to [[Tecate]] (and back again) on Saturdays. ===By taxi=== Ride-hailing is available in Mexico and the following are the most anticipated providers. There may be destinations where the service is not available due to differences with local cab groups. * {{listing | type=go | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/mexico-city | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content=Works in Mexico City and other cities. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Cabify | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content= }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Didi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content= }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content=Includes three cities. }} Many drivers in Mexico do not like payment by credit card. If you're having trouble hailing a ride, try switching to cash payment. ===By thumb=== One upside of the high petroleum prices is that hitching is beginning to be more common in Mexico again, particularly the rural areas. In areas near big cities, hitching should be more difficult, and is not really advisable for security reasons. However, in village areas, this will be really possible and most likely a nice experience. Since villagers have always had a hard time affording gas, and nowadays many are turning to picking up paying hitchhikers as a way to afford the next trip into town. Baja California, the Sierra Tarahumara and Oaxaca and Chiapas all have good possibilities for the hitchhiker. [[Hitchhiking]] possibilities vary according to region. Mexican culture is often accepting of hitchhiking and it's a common practice among Mexican youngsters going to the beach in Easter vacations, though in some cases a money contribution is expected for gas because of its relatively high prices. You should make it clear that you have no money to offer before accepting the ride, if this is the case. If you're willing to pay, trucks will often provide lifts for about half the price of a bus ticket. Of course you may be able to negotiate a better deal. Hitchhiking is considered fairly safe and easy in the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]. ==Talk== {{see also|Spanish phrasebook}} '''Spanish''' is the ''de facto'' national language. Spanish is used by virtually the whole population and all public communications (signs, documents, media, etc.) are conducted in the language. Mexico has one of the richest diversity of more than 60 '''indigenous languages''' spoken with official recognition. These languages are spoken within the communities that are largely segregated from mainstream mestizo society. About 5% of Mexicans speak an indigenous language. Most of these communities are fluent in Spanish as well. Many Mexicans do not speak English, even though it is understood by many in Mexico City, tour guides, and workers in popular tourist attractions. Because of this, a good knowledge of Spanish is essential for the independent traveller. The most popular foreign languages to learn within Mexico after English are French, Italian, German and Japanese. German, French, and Russian may be known by some in the tourism industry, but among clerks, policemen, and drivers (most particularly the last) there is basically no such thing as knowledge of foreign languages. Bilingual signs in Spanish and English might be available in popular tourist destinations. ==See== [[File:Tochimilco portada.jpg|thumbnail|Popocatépetl's 16th century monasteries are World Heritage Sites]] Many travelers come to see Mexico's natural wonders, includingː * '''Copper Canyon''' - ride the train through an enormous canyon system in the northwestern mountains * '''Mesoamerican Barrier Reef''' - scuba dive the coral reefs in the warm waters of the Mexican Caribbean * '''Sea of Cortez''' - see migrating whales, sea lions, dolphins and more * '''Volcano Belt''' - climb Mexico's highest mountain peaks and see active, dormant, and inactive volcanoes There are 35 [[UNESCO World Heritage Site|UNESCO world heritage sites]] in Mexico as of 2018, more than anywhere else in the Americas. Most of them are in the cultural category and relate to either the pre-Columbian civilizations in the area or to early colonial cities established by the Spanish ''conquistadores'' and missionaries. Much of Mexico is mountainous with some mountains rising higher than 5,000 m over the sea level. Mexico is on the border of two bioregions; both [[North American wildlife]] and [[Central and South American wildlife]] can be seen in the country. A number of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are in Mexico as well as a number of RAMSAR wetlands. The Mexican Tourism Ministry (SECTUR) has a program called ''[[Pueblos Magicos]]'' to identify and develop tourist programs in smaller, lesser known destinations. Towns designated as Pueblos Magicos usually are rich in colonial heritage, maintain cultural traditions, or offer spectacular natural wonders. These towns are the kinds of places a couple would go for a romantic weekend because they often feature interesting historical sites in a quaint setting with local bed and breakfast inns, regional cuisine in the local restaurants, and good accessibility from major cities. == Do == [[Image:Mayan ruins at Tulum Mexico.jpg|thumb|300px|Mayan Ruins of Tulum]] The warm Mexican climate, spectacular nature and long coastline make the country great for [[outdoor life]], especially [[water sport]]. * '''Surfing''' – [[Baja California]], [[Vallarta]], [[Oaxaca (state)|Oaxaca]] * '''Sea kayaking''' – Baja California * '''Snorkeling''' – Baja California, Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, etc. * '''[[Diving in Mexico|Scuba diving]]''' – Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas etc., and cave diving in the cenotes of the Yucatán Peninsula. * '''Whale watching''' – Baja California, [[Guerrero Negro]], [[Mazunte]], [[Zipolite]] * '''White water rafting''' – Veracruz * '''Visit a volcano''' – Mexico, Toluca etc. * '''Take a ride on the Copper Canyon Railway''' * '''Enjoy the beautiful coast line and beaches of Oaxaca''' – [[Huatulco]], [[Mazunte]], [[Zipolite]], Puerto Angel, [[Puerto Escondido]], etc. * Go for a '''horseback ride''' in the Copper Canyon * '''Visit the archaeological sites''' like Chichen Itza, Tulum, Coba, Monte Alban, Calakmul, Palenque, etc. * '''Volunteering''' – Chiapas, Xalapa, Veracruz or many other destinations * '''Visit ecological parks''' – [[Mayan Riviera]], [[Chiapas]], [[Tamaulipas]] * '''Trekking and viewing cave paintings''' [[Baja California]] ===Sports=== '''[[Association football|Football]]''' (soccer) is Mexico's national sport, and its top men's league, the '''[http://www.ligamx.net/ Liga MX]''', is one of the best funded outside Europe. The big four teams in the Liga MX are '''[http://www.clubamerica.com.mx América]''', '''[http://www.chivasdecorazon.com.mx Chivas]''', '''[http://www.cruzazulfc.com Cruz Azul]''' and '''[http://www.pumas.mx/ Pumas]'''. The rivalry between [[Guadalajara]]'s Chivas and [[Mexico City]]'s América, known as ''El Súper Clásico'', ''El Clásico de Clásicos'' or just ''El Clásico'', is the biggest in Mexico, and fixtures between the two sides are guaranteed to draw partisan sell-out crowds. In [[Northern Mexico]], the biggest game of the year is the ''Clasico Regio'', pitting Monterrey's two top teams against each other. The Mexican national team is also a regional powerhouse, and matches against its northern neighbor, the [[United States of America|United States]], are particularly charged affairs. '''Baseball''' is the second biggest team sport in the country with two leagues, [https://www.milb.com/mexican/ Liga Mexicana de Beisbol] (LMB) and the [https://www.lmp.mx/ Liga Pacifica] (LMP)(sponsored by ARCO). The best players make it to Major League Baseball teams in the U.S., but that is not a universal goal in Mexico, where many players enjoy long careers (particularly in the Mexican League teams) and are relatively well paid. The Liga Mexicana began in 1925. It is organized as two divisions, North and South, with 18 teams playing a 114-game season, from April to September. Teams are located in many popular tourist destinations including [[Cancun]] (Tigres), [[Mexico City]] (Diablos Rojos), [[Guadalajara]] (Mariachis), [[Monterrey]] (Sultanes), and [[Tijuana]] (Toros). The LMP is a winter league with 10 teams, mostly in the states of [[Sinaloa]] and [[Sonora]], but with teams in [[Mexicali]] (Aguilas), [[Guadalajara]] (Charros), and [[Monterrey]] (Sultanes). Monterrey and Guadalajara are the two cities with teams in both leagues, so you can catch a game there at almost any time of the year. '''[[American Football]]''' has a long tradition in Mexico but has often been relegated to third fiddle by the more popular soccer and baseball. Estadio Azteca has seen a handful of NFL games (including, at a time, the best attended NFL game in league history up to that point) and besides a long-standing college league, there is now also a professional league with teams focused in and around Mexico City. '''[[Bullfighting]]''', also referred to as ''la fiesta brava'', is a popular (but declining) spectator sport with a long Hispanic tradition stretching back as far as 2,000 years. Tradition crashes headlong into the modern world when it comes to bullfighting, where animal rights activists fight a constantly escalating war against bullfighting. Proponents of bullfighting point not only to the colorful traditions, but to the fact that the "industry" supporting bullfighting creates 18,000 jobs nationwide. Activists say it's a barbaric, bloodthirsty tradition that has no place in a civilized world. The debate is ongoing and while Mexico City's first bullfight was held in 1526, many people would be happy if no 500th anniversary could take place. Mexico City's Plaza de Toros (Plaza Monumental) is the world's largest bullring and is regarded as being part of the "triple crown" of bullfighting, alongside Madrid and Sevilla. While animal rights activists succeeded in having bullfights blocked in Mexico City in 2022, the case was overturned on appeal and bullfights have resumed in the capital. Bullfights usually occur between November and March, but the season varies by location. In [[Tijuana]], bullfights occur between April and October. In some smaller towns, bullfights are held only in conjunction with large festivals. In any case, travellers who might want a genuine bullfight experience should make plans to visit Mexico soon because the tradition of bullfighting may not last forever. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mexican pesos | currencyCode=M$ | date=January 2025 | USD=19 | EUR=22 | GBP=26 | CAD=14 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mxn-mexican-peso XE.com] }} The currency of Mexico is the ''peso'', denoted in Mexico as "'''$'''" (ISO code '''MXN''') and in Wikivoyage as "'''M$'''". It is divided into 100 ''centavos''. Prices in US dollars (in tourist areas) are labeled "US$" or sport an ''S'' with a double stroke. Coins are issued in denominations of 5, 10 (steel), 20, and 50 centavos (brass; new 50-centavo coins issued from 2011 onwards are steel and smaller in size) and 1, 2, 5 (steel ring, brass center), 10, 20, 50, and 100 pesos (brass ring, steel or silver center), but it's extremely rare to find coins valued at more than 10 pesos. Banknotes are produced in denominations of 20 (blue or green and pink), 50 (pink-red or purple), 100 (red), 200 (green), 500 (brown or blue), and 1,000 (purple and pink for the latest issue, purple for older issues) pesos. The current issue of 20-, 50- and 100-peso bills are made from polymer plastic, and there are several different series of all banknotes. Ten-peso notes exist, but are very rare and no longer issued and accepted, but remain legal tender. ====Acceptance of other currency==== "Old" pesos (issued before 1993) are no longer accepted, but are usually collected by numismatists. Merchants may accept US dollars at a lower exchange rate. US dollars are sometimes accepted in border towns and in some tourist areas. Even when US dollars are accepted, pesos are preferred. Other currencies such as the euro, pound sterling, and Swiss franc are generally not accepted by merchants, and even banks headquartered in Europe may refuse to accept euros for exchange. On the other hand, most banks and exchange offices (''casas de cambio'') will accept them. If you arrive from the south and still carry Central American currency, try to exchange them as soon as possible, as outside of the immediate border area not even banks will accept them. As all Central American countries either have the US dollar as their national currency (El Salvador and Panama) or have it circulating to varying degrees as a ''de facto'' second currency and virtually all banks in Central America and most banks in Mexico accept US dollars (usually at better rates than any other currency) your best bet is to "triangulate" your money from local currency to dollars and from dollars to pesos rather than exchanging them directly, which can be difficult and expensive. Should you have forgotten to exchange your money and the banks are closed, street money changers (called ''coyotes'' or ''cambistas'') don't have fixed opening hours and often have better rates. Be careful however, as they do from time to time rip off foreign visitors with bogus calculators, wrong rates and counterfeit or outdated (and thus worthless) bills. ====Money exchange==== If you have brought cash in US dollars or euros, the best places to change your money are at an arrival airport (such as Mexico City and Cancun), where many money exchanges are located already in the arrival hall (where you can also compare some exchange rates and choose the most convenient) and, normally, at airports, the exchange rate is usually fair. Be sure to pass through Customs before looking for foreign exchange as inside the customs zone in Cancun the rate is far lower than the greediest street vendors ask. If you would like to wait until later to obtain Mexican currency, try not to change at your hotel, as the rates there tend to be extremely disadvantageous for tourists. However, some hotels provide exchanges as a courtesy, in this case it is best to ask just to make sure. Often, you can find money exchanges at strategic places in most tourist destinations and near the hotel (zones). The exchanges rates should not differ drastically from the ones at airport. If you are unfamiliar with Mexican money (bills, coins), try to stick to official foreign exchange booths. In several internationally popular beach destinations like Cancun and Los Cabos, local merchants are accustomed to US dollars and will often accept them as payment (they even have dual-currency cash registers and drawers). However, do bear in mind that the convenience of such “private” money exchange usually comes with a slightly unfavorable exchange rate. ===Shopping=== If there is no price tag, ''ask for the price first''. The simple question is "¿Cuánto cuesta?" and is easily understood by Mexicans. Some shops show the price in '''pesitos'''. That's the diminutive of peso and means the same. [[File:2013-12-27 Oaxaca Markt 03 anagoria.JPG|thumbnail|Spices for sale at a market in Oaxaca]] * Weights are measured in kilograms. Length is measured in centimeters and meters. * For clothes and shoe sizes, the "Continental" measurements are used. Merchants can be picky about the state of your paper money and may scrutinize it and reject anything with rips. Try to keep it in as pristine condition as possible. Reputedly, this is more the case the farther south you go. In any case, you can easily enter a bank with some damaged bill to get it exchanged into another one. Merchants are often reluctant to make change in smaller towns. Try to avoid paying with overly large denominations; the best customer has exact change. In rural areas, your 'change' may consist of chiclets or other small commodities. Merchants, specially those in small markets ("tianguis") and street vendors are no strangers to haggling. Try asking "¿Es lo menos?" ("Is this the smallest price?"), The more rural and less touristy the area you're likely to have more success. *'''[[Mexican Artesanias|Artesanias]]''' A visit to anywhere in Mexico will give one the opportunity to buy art made in the "old world" manner that reflects the diverse ethnicity of Mexico. Included in these articles would be textiles, wood carvings, paintings and carved masks that are used on sacred dances and burials. In many parts of Mexico, artists welcome visitors to their workshops to see how things are made and often to buy "direct from the source". *'''Timeshares''' When visiting the '''resort''' cities of Mexico (e.g. Cancun, Puerto Vallarta or similar), it is more than common to be approached on the streets, in bars, in restaurants and anywhere with offers of gifts, free rental cars, free nights, free dinners, free anything that may appeal to you, just for visiting and listening to a presentation to buy a timeshare. Unless you are severely desperate for something to do, you may want to ignore those making the offer and stay away from those ''free'' offers. While the properties are very nice, great locations and plenty of amenities, this is not the place to ''learn'' about timeshares. Do your homework before even thinking about buying a timeshare, see what the values are in the ''resale'' market and understand the ''rights'' you are buying and the future costs. Collecting on the ''free'' offers may be difficult, if not impossible. * '''Automobiles''' It's certainly worth going over and importing a car back from there, although importing it to the EU/US standards is the hard part. Recommended are the Ford Fusion (like the British Ford Mondeo, but more upmarket) and the Chrysler 200 (the 2.4 model is worth it). Volkswagens can be substantially better-equipped than European or North American counterparts. The Passat sold in Mexico is not the same car as in Europe, and is substantially bigger, however, engines are the same as in Europe, except for the 2.5 petrol. * '''Cuban cigars''' are a fun novelty for tourists from the US and are widely available. It's still illegal to bring them back to the US, although the worst that's likely to happen is they'll be confiscated by customs. ====Credit cards and debit cards==== Credit cards and debit cards (with Maestro or MasterCard/Visa affiliation) are widely accepted in Mexico. You can use them at ATMs as well as in most department stores, bigger restaurants, gas stations, but be sure that outside cities you always carry sufficient cash in pesos, and generally verify the possibility to pay with card before consumption. Smaller (often family run) businesses often accept only cash. Most of the time, an extra 5% when paying with card is added. Also, you cannot get lower prices if you haggle unless you pay cash. While many Pemex stations accept credit cards, especially in locations that have heavy tourist traffic, some do not; travellers who intend to pay by credit card should always ask the attendant if the card is accepted before pumping begins. ====ATMs==== Bank of America customers can avoid ATM fees by using Santander Serfin ATMs. Other banks may have similar policies, check with your respective institution. For example, Banamex bank is owned by Citibank/Citigroup, and Bancomer is owned by BBVA, which is related to Chase in the United States. Ask to your bank if they have relation with Mexican banks, and the advantages that such ally can provide. Otherwise, do not be surprised to find yourself with a fee for each withdrawal. ATMs ask you if you want to accept the shown fee. In some ATMs you need to put your credit card inside crosswise. 5 Lowest ATM fees used with UK issued Mastercard, January 2024: Inbursa M$22.04, BanBajio M$23.20, Banca Mifel M$26.68, BanCoppel M$29, CitiBanamex M$30.74. As of January 2024, other fees are: Banco Azteca M$34.80, Santander M$34.80, HSBC M$35.84, Banorte M$58.00, Multiva M$67.28, Banregio M$81.20, BBVA M$174 pesos There is no difference between Mastercard and Visa. ATMs in smaller towns can run out of currency; sometimes this is a regular occurrence. Check with the bank (or locals) about the best time to use the ATM and never wait until the last minute to get cash. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping]] in Mexico is similar to the United States. It is usually from 10 to 15%. Meals have a 10% to 15% tip (this includes fast food deliveries). This tip is usually left by most people in restaurants, although it is not so common in street restaurants or stands, where the tenders usually have a can or box where people deposit coins. It is generally common to leave a tip on the table after paying and therefore having small change is very useful. Mexican bars and night clubs often charge directly to the bill 15% of the total amount (taxes included). That is illegal in most cases because of the imposition of the tip and because they calculate the 15% with taxes included. In large groups, or in nightclubs the barmen expect the customers to deposit their tip in a cup left on the table before serving the drinks so the service they give is in function with the tip they received. It is also customary to give a tip to the person who sometimes guard the car as if they were valet parking; in Mexico these people are often called ''viene viene'' (literally: "comes, comes") or ''franeleros'' and usually people give them M$3-20 depending on the zone, although they sometimes ask for bigger sums of money when the car is left close to a night life area. In medium and large retail stores such as Wal-Mart there are uniformed helpers, usually children or the elderly, who bag the products just after the clerk has scanned them. This role is called ''cerillo'' (Spanish for "match"). It is common for these helpers to not have a basic salary, so all the money earned is from the tips people give them. Most customers give M$2-5 depending on the number of products. Cerillos also put the bags in the cart and if the load is large they can even help bringing it to the car and unloading the bags; in these cases, they normally receive more than M$15. Tipping is not expected in cabs or buses, except when it is a tour. In some populated Mexican restaurants wandering musicians enter, play, and expect the customers to pay something, although this is voluntary. In filling stations, the workers usually get M$2-5 for every gasoline load. In stadiums people give a small tip to the person who shows the place where they should sit. Tips are also given to bellboys, barbers and people that work in similar services. ==Eat== [[File:TacoPlacesPetatlan.JPG|thumbnail|Taco stalls]] [[File:Gordita.jpg|thumbnail|Gordita]] {{see also|Mexican cuisine}} [[Mexican cuisine]] can be described better as a collection of various regional cuisines rather than a standard list of dishes for the whole country. Because of climate, geography and ethnic differences, we can classify Mexican cuisine broadly in 4 great categories according to the region: * '''Northern''' – Mostly meat dishes done mainly from beef and goat. This includes Cabrito, Carne Asada (Barbecue) and Arrachera. Is influenced by international cuisine (mostly from the United States and Europe), but it retains the essential Mexican flavor. * '''Central''' – This region is influenced by the rest of the country, but has its own well-developed local flavor in dishes such as Pozole, Menudo and Carnitas. Dishes are mostly corn-based and with different spices. * '''Southeastern''' – Is known for its spicy vegetable and chicken-based dishes. Caribbean cuisine have influences here because of the location. * '''Coast''' – Has a strong emphasis on seafood and fish, but corn-based recipes can be easily found as well. Ask for the "platillo tipico" of the town, which is the local speciality that may not be found elsewhere, a variation, or the birthplace of a recipe. Also consider that most of the recipes change from place to place: for example, tamales in the south are made with the banana plant leaves, and in the Huasteca region tamales are very big (they are called "Zacahuil"); one is OK for a complete family. If you are travelling here from [[Spain]] or elsewhere in [[Latin America]], keep in mind that many Mexican dishes can have the same name, but be very different from their counterparts elsewhere. For instance, a Mexican ''tamal'' is very different from a Colombian ''tamal'', and a Mexican ''tortilla'' bears virtually no similarity at all to a Spanish ''tortilla''. Traditional Mexican food can often be very spicy; if you are not used to peppers, always ask if your food includes it. "(''¿Esto tiene chile? Es picante?'')." There are many [[street food|food carts]] on the streets of Mexican cities and towns. Travelers are advised to eat from these carts with caution, as hygienic preparation practices are not always reliable. You can measure the quality of food by popularity; do not eat in lonely places, even if they are restaurants or hotels. Consider that Mexicans eat their main meal in the middle of the afternoon (around 3 o'clock), with breakfast or "almuerzo", a mid-morning affair after a very light something, like a small plate of fruit or a roll with coffee, in the very early morning. Although, many Mexicans have large breakfasts in the morning. Later, at night the meal varies from very light, such as sweet rolls or breads, coffee or hot chocolate, to heavy dinner, such as pozole, tacos, and tamales. Schedule your meals accordingly and you will get a better perspective on the gauge of how busy (popular) a restaurant is. In doing so, you may (or may not) find some of the most unique and genuinely Mexican dishes you've ever had. From these vendors, you may find tacos, burgers, bread, roasted field corn or elote served with mayonnaise, or a light cream, and sprinkled with fresh white cheese, roasted sweet potato called camote, and almost any kind of food and service you would imagine. * '''Chicharrón''' – Deep fried pork skin. Quite crunchy and if well-prepared slightly oily. Heavenly spread with guacamole. Or sometimes cooked in a mild chili sauce and served with eggs. * '''Enchiladas''' – Chicken or meat stuffed soft tortillas covered with green, red or mole sauce. Some may have melted cheese inside and/or on top. * '''Tacos''' – Soft corn tortillas filled with meat (asada (steak strips), pollo (shredded chicken), carnitas (fried shredded pork), lengua (cow tongue), cabeza (meat from cow skull), sesos (cow brains), tripa (cow gut), al pastor (chili, pork, beef cut from a spit) or chorizo (pork sausage)). In the north sometimes flour tortillas are used. Do not expect the crispy taco shell anywhere. * '''Tamales''' (singular ''tamal'') – corn dough shell with meat or vegetable fillings. Tamales Dulces contain fruit and/or nuts. * '''Tortas''' – Fancy Mexican sandwich. Bread roll that is grilled lightly, meat fillings are same as tacos: lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, beans, onion, mayonnaise and avocado. One is beginning to find tortas with the American styled cold cuts available, as well, in urban areas. * '''Huitlacoche''' – (wit-la-ko-che) A fungus, much like mushrooms, found in corn. This dish is usually an additive to others. Foreigners might find it hard to stomach but Mexicans swear by it. Although most Mexicans love huitlacoche, most do not prepare it in their own home very frequently. It can be found in most markets or stores. * '''Quesadillas''' – Cheese or other ingredients grilled in between corn tortillas, heavy on cheese and lighter on other items such as chicken, pork, beans, squash flower blossoms and such. * '''Mole''' – Mild to medium chili based sauce made with cocoa and a hint of peanut over meat, usually served with shredded chicken or turkey. ('Pollo en mole' and this is known as Puebla or poblano style). There are many regional moles and some are green, yellow, black and can vary greatly in flavor depending on the artistic talent or preferences involved. * '''Pozole''' – Chicken or pork broth with hominy corn, spiced when served with oregano, lettuce, lemon juice, radish, chopped onion, dried ground chile and other ingredients such as chicken, pork, or even seafood, usually served with a side dish of tostadas, fried potato and fresh cheese tacos. Very fortifying. * '''Gorditas''' – corn patty stuffed with chicharron, chicken, cheese, etc. topped with cream, cheese and hot sauce. * '''Grillo''' – Grasshopper, usually cooked and placed inside another dish such as a quesadilla. It is frequently found in markets in the state of Morelos and other central Mexico states. This is not common in Mexico City. * '''Guacamole''' – crushed avocado sauce with green serrano chile, chopped red tomato and onion, lime juice, salt, and served with somewhat thick (1/8 inch) fried tortilla slices or "totopos". * '''Tostadas''' – fried flat tortilla topped with fried beans, lettuce, cream, fresh cheese, sliced red tomato and onion, hot sauce, and chicken or other main ingredient. Think a corn chip dippers, on low dose steroids, for salsas and as above. You do not usually get a plate of this automatically in many parts of Mexico as you would in the US, although they are starting to show up in resort areas that cater to US nationals automatically. * '''Huaraches''' – a bigger (think shoe-shaped) version of a gordita. * '''Sopes''' – corn patty topped with a wide variety of ingredients such as chicken, cheese, mashed beans, and various hot sauces. * '''Carnitas''' – deep fried pork meat served with a variety of salsa, to get them dry with less grease. * '''Chile en nogada''' – A big green Poblano chile with a beef or pork apple stuffing, covered with a white nut (usually walnut, known as ''nuez'') sauce and sprinkled with pomegranate seeds which happen to be red. The three colors represent the national flag and the dish is served nationwide around Mexican Independence Day (16 September). * '''Barbacoa''' – Sheep or goat meat cooked with maguey leaves in an oven made at a hole in the ground. Think BBQ heaven without the hickory smoke or catsup-based BBQ sauce. Served with condiments and salsas in corn tortilas and sometimes in a torta bread roll. * '''Sopa de Tortilla''' – tortilla chips soup usually of chicken broth, plain or with a touch of tomato flavor, and usually mild and not at all hot. Commonly served with diced avocado and fresh crumbled white cheese on top. * '''Chilaquiles''' – tortilla chips with a green tomatillo, or red tomato, or mild chili sauce, Usually served with chicken or eggs on top or within. Usually a mild dish. * '''Migas''' – is a typical dish in the center of the country which is a guajillo chile broth with soaked bread, which you can add the pork bones with meat or eggs. You may see a sign with '''"orden de tacos"'''. This means usually 5 pieces, if there is no other amount stated. The word ''orden'' is also used for other types of Mexican food. There is breakfast in McDonald's that you may not find in other countries. It includes:<br> • McMolletes<br> • McMuffin Huevo y Salchicha<br> • McMuffin a la Mexicana<br> • Hotcakes con Salchichas<br> • Desayuno Especial Mexicano<br> • McBurrito a la Mexicana for M$30 (Dec 2021)<br> Basic burgers you may not find in other countries during the day are for about M$30 (Dec 2021):<br> • Hamburguesa Gourmet<br> • Hamburguesa Especial con lechuga ==Drink== [[File:Venta de tequila en Tequila Jalisco México..JPG|thumbnail|Tequila store in [[Tequila]]]] Tap water is potable, but generally not recommended for drinking. Hotels usually give guests one (large) bottle of drinking water per room per night. Bottled water is also readily available in supermarkets and at tourist attractions. * Absinthe is legal in Mexico. * Tequila, distilled from Agave (a specific type of cactus) * Pulque, ferment made from Maguey * Mezcal, similar to tequila but distilled from Maguey * Raicilla, a type of mezcal made in Jalisco * Pox, whisky meets rum, distilled from grains and cane sugar, made in Chiapas * Tepache, ferment made from pineapple * Tuba, made from coconut palm tree [[File:Modelo Negra and Victoria beer bottles.jpg|thumb|A Mexican dark lager (Modelo Negra) and golden lager (Victoria)]] There are also several Mexican beers, most of which are available outside Mexico, these include Corona (popular, but not necessarily as overwhelmingly popular in Mexico as many foreigners think), Dos Equis (XX) and Modelo Especial. Lighter Mexican beers are often served with lime and salt, though many Mexicans do not drink beer in this fashion. In some places you will find beer served as a prepared drink called "Michelada" or simply "Chelada". The formula varies depending on the place, but it's usually beer mixed with lime juice and various sauces and spices on ice served in a salt rim glass. Spicy beer is available in supermarkets; try it, it will be an experience. Other variation called "Cubana" includes Clamato cocktail, soybean sauce, salt and a little bit of hot sauce. Mexico produces wine in several different areas, the most important of which is the [[Valle de Guadalupe]] in [[Baja California]], which accounts for more than 90% of Mexico's total wine production. The second largest wine region is in the Bajio state of [[Queretaro (state)|Queretaro]] centered on the town of [[Ezequiel Montes]]. Wine is also produced in the states of [[Sonora]], [[Coahuila]], and [[Guanajuato (state)|Guanajuato]]. Most Mexicans tend to prefer European or Chilean imports, but Mexican wines are becoming more popular as they continue to earn accolades in the press and in competitions. In the prestigious 2023 Concours Mundial de Bruxelles, the top point getter was Cenzontle Blanco from [[Valle de Guadalupe]], beating out thousands of wines from around the world. Non alcoholic beverages: * Chocolate * Atole * Horchata (rice based drink) * Agua de Jamaica (hibiscus iced tea, similar to karkadai in Egypt) * Licuados de fruta (fruit smoothies and milkshakes) * Champurrado (thick chocolate drink) * Refrescos (common sodas, generally sweet and made with cane sugar, not corn syrup as in the United States). [[File:Champurrado thenewplace sf.jpg|thumbnail|Champurrado]] The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18, but not strictly enforced. In many places, consumption of alcohol in public ("open container") is illegal and usually punishable by a day in jail. Be aware of waitresses and barmen, especially at night clubs. If you are not aware of your consumption and how much you already spent, they can add a few more drinks to your account. Some do this, not all. Alcoholmeters are widely used in driving roads If drinking, always have a designated driver. Driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage will result in 1 to 3 days in jail. Mexico, especially the southern state of Chiapas, produces excellent coffee. Café con leche, usually one part coffee to one part steamed milk, is very popular. Unfortunately, many places in Mexico that are not cafés serve Nescafe instant coffee, so you may have to search for the good coffee, but it's there. Mineral water is popular in many regions of Mexico. Topo Chico is the most widely available brand by a very wide margin. ==Learn== [[File:Flag of Mexico in Acapulco.jpg|thumbnail|Hornos Beach in Acapulco]] The most important Universities in Mexico include the '''UNAM''', ranked 73rd worldwide, and the best in Latin America. Its main campus is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Murals in the main campus were painted by some of the most recognized artists in Mexican history, such as Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros. '''IPN''' (Instituto Politécnico Nacional), '''ITESM''' (Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, located in Monterrey but with branch campuses in many other Mexican cities) the '''Iberoamerican University''' (Universidad Iberoamericana, part of the Jesuit University System) and '''Universidad Anahuac'''. [[File:Chichen Itza 21.JPG|thumbnail|Chichen Itza, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world]] Most of the government-funded universities on mayor cities (state capital) have short courses on history, gastronomy and cultural subjects, most of them are almost free. Other places are the "Casa de la Cultura", (house of culture) that are historical buildings used for cultural related activities (music concerts, theater, paint and other exhibits, they also have "talleres" (workshops). Most places have programs for foreigners to learn Spanish, or even study a whole degree. There are some other courses where you can learn traditional Mexican activities such as handcrafts. There are Spanish language schools throughout Mexico. The city with the most schools is Cuernavaca, with more than 50 schools. Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato also offer a number of schools to choose from. Prices vary; however, most schools are very reasonably priced. Many schools can arrange homestays with local Mexican families. ==Work== Working may require a work visa, which is difficult to get if you just want to freelance for a short time. Many important headquarters are located throughout the main cities of Mexico. Top Mexican corporations such as Televisa, Bimbo, Cemex, Telmex and Vitra are often willing to hire professionals who are native English speakers as much of their business is developed alongside North American corporations. Native English speakers can pick up work as English teachers. The upside is that English speakers with no knowledge of Spanish are appreciated, because they will force their students to practice English. The downside is that salaries are somewhat low. ==Sleep== [[File:Plazadeliberacion1.jpg|thumbnail|Plaza de liberación and the cathedral, Guadalajara]] Several hotel chains are available throughout Mexico, including Palace Resorts, Le Blanc Spa Resort, Best Western, Holiday Inn, CityExpress, Fiesta Inn, Fairmont, Hilton, Ritz, Camino Real, Marriott (Sheraton, W, Westin, Four Points) and many others. Rates have risen considerably, though most are still reasonable compared to similar U.S. or European hotels. Chain accommodations are usually clean and comfortable, good for business travelers, but not necessarily for those wanting to experience Mexico itself. There are also many all-inclusive resorts for those visiting the major beach destinations. Boutique hotels are found all over the country; price range varies but all of them are rich in Mexican traditions, elegance and charm, the perfect way to experience the cultural heritage of each state. A great source of information is Melba Levick's book ''Mexicasa,'' found in many libraries and online bookstores. Otherwise an authentic accommodation can usually be found by asking locals or gringos, especially in the smaller towns. Smaller hotels and motels along the roadside may not be safe or comfortable. If you are unsure about conditions or the safety of the room, ask to see it before paying. This will not be considered rude. Decent hotels for a low budget are usually found around the central bus station of a town. If you are going to stay at cheaper hotels in cooler areas in the winter consider bringing extra clothes, an electric blanket or a sleeping bag, as there is power, but no heat. And although it may get quite hot by afternoon outside, adobe and cement are like fridges. An electric tea kettle is also a good idea, as hot water might not be available when you want it. There is a large backpacker culture in Mexico, and there are many hostels offering dorm accommodation and private rooms. You can expect to pay M$100-300 (Nov 2021) for a night in a dorm, sometimes including breakfast. Hostels are a fantastic place to share information with fellow travelers, and you can often find people who have been to your future destinations. If you're travelling with children, use a plastic case (with wheels and a handle) as luggage, and it can be used as a bathtub for the kids if necessary. Budget hotels rarely, if ever, have bathtubs. ==Stay safe== [[File:Policia turistica ciudad mexico.jpg|thumbnail|Mounted tourist police, Mexico City]] {{cautionbox | Some governments advise that you '''should not travel''' to the following states: [[Guerrero]], [[Michoacán]], [[Colima (state)|Colima]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Tamaulipas]] and [[Zacatecas (state)|Zacatecas]]. These governments recommend against traveling to the six states mentioned above because of high levels of crime, unreliable law enforcement assistance, and violence related to drug trafficking. The Mexican government makes a considerable effort to protect visitors to major tourist destinations, and resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico generally do not see the levels of drug-related violence and crime reported in the border region and in areas along major trafficking routes. | us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html | uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mexico | canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mexico | australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/americas/mexico | lastedit=2023-12-15}} Mexico has a reputation for being a dangerous country — a reputation that's not entirely unwarranted — but the average traveller should not be too overly concerned or cautious of their surroundings. A lot of the crime occurs between those involved in the drug trade or organised crime. (See [[#Drug traffic issues|drug traffic issues]] for more information) In most cities, location is very important as security changes from place to place. Areas close to downtown (''centro'') are safer to walk at night, especially on the "Plaza", "Zócalo" or "Jardín" (main square) and areas nearby. Stay in populated areas, avoid poor neighborhoods, especially at night, and don't walk there at any time if you are alone. Vicious beatings have been reported at resorts by people who have travelled alone, so stay alert for any suspicious-looking individual. If you wish to visit one of the slums, you should only go as part of a guided tour with a reputable guide or tour company. Political violence in Chiapas and Oaxaca has abated, and is far less of a threat than drug-related crime. However, Mexican authorities do not look approvingly on foreigners who participate in demonstrations (even peaceful ones) or voice support for groups such as the Ejército Zapatista de Liberación Nacional and its leader, Subcomandante Marcos, even if their images and slogans are commonly sold on t-shirts and caps in markets. Do not wave cash or credit cards around. Use them discreetly and put them away as quickly as possible. The nationwide emergency number is '''911'''. Although Mexico has one of the largest police forces in the world, systemic corruption and low salaries often restrict the capabilities of law enforcement. Enlisting the help of the police almost always requires solid Spanish-language skills. Beggars are not usually a threat, but you will find lots in urban areas. Avoid being surrounded by them, as some can [[Pickpockets|pickpocket]] your goods. Giving away two pesos quickly can get you out of such troubles (but may also attract other beggars). Most poor and homeless Mexicans prefer to sell trinkets, gum, sing, or provide some meager service than beg outright. Larger cities, such as Guadalajara and Mexico City, are safer than most places in Mexico. However, caution is still recommended. ===Drug crimes=== [[File:Mexican States with mafia conflicts.png|thumb|States with the most conflict, marked in red (2010)]] Former president Felipe Calderon waged war on the drug cartels, and in turn, they waged war against the government (and more often, among each other). Some Mexican northern and border cities such as Tijuana, Nogales, Nuevo Laredo, Chihuahua, Culiacán, Durango, and Juárez can be dangerous if you are not familiar with them, especially at night. Most crime in the northern cities is related to the drug trade and police corruption. However, since law enforcement figures are often overwhelmed battling drug-related activities, many northern border towns that were somewhat dangerous to begin with are now a hotbed for criminals to act with impunity. Ciudad Juárez, in particular, bears the brunt of this violence, and with nearly a fourth of Mexico's overall murders, travel there requires special attention. Away from the northern states, cartel related violence is centered in specific areas, including the Pacific Coast states of Michoacán and Guerrero. However, exercise caution anywhere, especially at night or in high crime areas. Tourists and other travellers are of no interest to the drug cartels. Many popular tourist destinations like Oaxaca, Guanajuato, Los Cabos, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Cancún, Mérida, and Guadalajara are largely unaffected by this, simply because there are no borders there. Ciudad Juárez is a primary battleground in the drug war, and while foreign travellers are not often targeted, the presence of two warring cartels, many small opportunistic gangs, and armed police and soldiers has created a chaotic situation to say the least. As a rule of thumb, the further away you are from the border, and the closer you are to Mexico City, the safer you'll be. Many people go to Mexico City to seek refuge from drug-related violence as many politicians and military personnel are there. Consumption of drugs should be prohibited, although the problem of illegal medicine is serious in Mexico, this is still illegal (but consumption of drugs like cannabis or having a small amount are legal or decriminalised). Also, this can let you to be in trouble with gang. The army also sets up random checkpoints throughout all major highways in search of narcotics and weapons. Drug consumption is also opposed by a large percentage of the population. ===Advice for the beach=== ====[[Jellyfish]]==== If you see Portuguese man o' war (''Physalia physalis''), be far away from it. If a person is unluckily contacted with the jellyfish, use tweezers to remove the jellyfish's stingers, then go to hospital. ==== Stingray stings ==== Choose a place with hot water if you can, because the heat deactivates the poison. ==== [[Sunburns]] ==== Bring only reef-safe sunscreen if going to beaches because you might not find it available in some areas. ==== Riptides ==== Very dangerous, particularly during and after storms. ===Public transportation=== When in major cities &ndash; especially Mexico City &ndash; it is better to play it safe with taxis. The best options are to phone a taxi company, to request that your hotel or restaurant call a taxi for you, or to pick up a taxi from an established post (''Taxi de Sitio''). Also, taxis can be stopped in the middle of the street, which is okay for most of the country, but particularly unsafe in Mexico City. As chaotic as it might be sometimes, the [https://www.metro.cdmx.gob.mx/ Metro] is the best way to move around in Mexico City: it's cheap (M$5 for a ticket as of Feb 02, 2020), safe, has a large network covering almost anywhere you'd want to go in the city and it's extremely fast, compared to any on-street transportation, since it doesn't have to bear with the constant traffic jams. If you've never been in a crowded subway, avoid peak hours (usually from 06:00–09:00 and 17:00–20:00) and do your homework: check first which line (''línea'') and station (''estación'') you want to go to and the address of the place you're trying to reach. Your hotel can give you this information, and maps of the subway system are available on the internet and at the stations. Most stations also have maps of the vicinity. Avoid taking the subway at late hours of the night, but during the day many stations are patrolled by police officers and the subway is safer than taking the public bus. Your major concern in the subway is the pickpockets, so keep your important belongings and wallets in a safe place. A word of caution for people who are used to European or major American subway systems that operate around the clock: even in Mexico City, the last subway leaves around midnight, with service only resuming in the early morning. Taxis are priced accordingly, and you should keep your wits about you when moving around in the middle of the night. If you are travelling by bus, do not put your valuables in your big bag in the storage compartment of the bus. If the police or the military controls the luggage, they might take out what they want, especially in night buses, when passengers are most likely asleep. The use of a money belt (worn underneath the clothes and out of sight) is highly recommended. ===Driving=== * All distances on the signboards and speed limits are in metric units. * Gas is likewise sold in metric units and far cheaper than in Europe (and still a bit cheaper than in the U.S.) [[File:15-07-21-Mexico-Stadtzentrum-RalfR-N3S 9738.jpg|thumb|Downtown Mexico City]] If driving in from the [[USA]], always purchase Mexican liability insurance (legal defense coverage recommended) before crossing the border or immediately after crossing. When you are paying for your temporary import permit (for going beyond border areas), often in the same building there are several stalls selling Mexican auto insurance. Even if your American (or Canadian, etc.) insurance covers your vehicle in Mexico, it '''cannot''' (by Mexican law) cover liability (e.g., hitting something or injuring someone). You will probably spend time in a Mexican jail if you have an accident without it. And even if your own insurance does (in theory) provide liability coverage in Mexico—you'll be filing your claim from behind bars! Don't risk it, get Mexican auto insurance. Never drive above the speed limit or run stop signs/red lights, as Mexican police will use any excuse to pull over tourists and give you a ticket. In some cities, the police can not give you a ticket, but they might warn you. The fine for speeding could be as much as US$100 (M$1870)<!--shouldn't we use the exact peso amount instead of a rounded USD amount?-->, depending on the city. As of April 2011, police across the country are cracking down on drunk driving, particularly in Mexico City, the larger cities, and the beach resorts. There are random checkpoints throughout the country in which every driver has to stop and take an automated inebriation test. If you fail, you will end up in a Mexican prison. You will mostly find beggars and windshield cleaners at some traffic lights; having your windows closed at all times is especially recommendable in some areas of Mexico City. The windshield cleaners will try to clean yours: a strong and firm "no" is suggested. ===Natural disasters=== Natural disasters in Mexico include [[hurricanes]] and [[earthquakes]]. [[Mexico City]] in particular is located in a seismically active area. === Firearms === Every year a few U.S. tourists run afoul of Mexico's strict gun laws. '''Bringing guns into Mexico is illegal in most circumstances''', and this includes guns kept for personal protection on private boats. If you want to bring a firearm, see [[Recreational shooting#Mexico]]. === Hiking === Many trails are unmarked in real life, even if they are present at OpenStreetMap or a hiking app. If a local rule says to do a trail with a guide - it's much better to go with the guide, the route will be dangerous and easy to get lost. ==Stay healthy== Some parts of Mexico are known for '''[[travelers' diarrhea]]''', often called "Montezuma's Revenge" (Venganza de Moctezuma). The reason for this is not so much the spicy food but the contamination of the '''[[water]] supply''' in some of the poorer zones in Mexico. In most of the small towns that are less industrialized, only the poorest Mexicans will drink tap water. The best policy is to only drink bottled or purified water, both of which are readily available. Be sure to specify ''bottled'' water in restaurants and avoid ice (which is often not made from purified water). Just like in the US, in most major Mexican cities the water is purified at the cities' water company. In most restaurants in these poor zones, the only water served comes from large jugs of purified water. If you get sick, visit your local clinic as soon as possible. There is medicine available that will counter the bacteria. Medicine in urban areas is highly developed, public hospitals are just as good as public hospitals in US, and just as the American public hospitals, they are always full. It's recommended going to private hospitals for faster service. Before traveling to rural areas of Mexico, it might be a good idea to obtain '''anti-malarial medications''' from your health care provider. It is strongly advised that the traveler be sure that any meats they are consuming have been thoroughly cooked due to an increasing rate of '''roundworm''' infections, particularly in the Acapulco area. Along with the risk for malaria, mosquitoes have also been known to carry the '''West Nile virus'''. Be sure to bring an effective insect repellent, preferably one that contains the ingredient DEET. The rate of '''AIDS/HIV''' infection in Mexico is lower than in the US, France and most Latin American nations. However, if you plan on having sex, be sure that you use a latex condom to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading the virus. As with any western location, cases of '''hantavirus pulmonary syndrome''' have been reported throughout Mexico. This is an acute, rare (but often fatal) illness for which there is no known cure. The virus is believed to be present in animal feces, particularly feces from members of the rodent family. Therefore, do not wander into animal dens and be especially careful when entering enclosed spaces that are not well ventilated and lack sunlight. Vaccination against '''Hepatitis A & B''' and '''Typhoid fever''' is recommended. If you are bitten by an animal, assume that the animal was carrying '''rabies''' and seek medical attention immediately for treatment. In remote areas, carry a first aid kit, aspirin, and other related items that are sold without medical prescription. ==Respect== [[File:MojigangaSMA002.jpg|thumb|Festival in [[San Miguel de Allende]]]] Mexicans have a somewhat relaxed sense of time so it's vital to be patient. Arriving half an hour late is common and should not be taken in a negative light. When anyone, even a total stranger, sneezes, you always say "¡salud!" ("bless you!" or more literally, "your health!"): otherwise, it is considered rude. In rural areas, particularly in the Mexican heartland (Jalisco, Zacatecas, Aguascalientes, etc.), the even more pious "Jesús te bendiga" (May Jesus bless you) will follow a sneeze. Attitudes towards LGBT travellers can be hostile in more rural states, but [[LGBT Mexico City|Mexico City is very LGBT friendly]] as are popular beach resort areas such as [[Cancun]], [[Puerto Vallarta]], and [[Acapulco]]. By court order, all states in Mexico either allow the performance of same-sex marriages, or recognize such marriages when performed in other states. Same-sex marriage is performed in Mexico City and in the states of Aguascalientes, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Campeche, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Colima, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Morelos, Nayarit, Nuevo León, Oaxaca, Puebla, Quintana Roo, San Luis Potosí, Sinaloa, Sonora and Tlaxcala as well as in certain municipalities in Guerrero and Zacatecas. It is pending publication in Querétaro, and being prepared for legislation in Yucatán. Southern Mexico City is the best place in terms of tolerance. When entering churches, always take off any sunglasses, caps or hats. Wearing shorts is rarely a problem, but still wear a sweatshirt or sweater to your waist to avoid showing too much skin, which could be disrespectful in such places. However, away from the beaches, or northern areas, shorts are very rarely worn by Mexicans on the street and thus will attract more attention to you and make you stand out as a foreigner. === Sensitive issues === '''Show respect to Mexico's laws'''. Although corruption and bribery have long been around, a visitor behaving in a way that implies that Mexico is a lawless country is considered disrespectful. Offering a bribe to an official may get you into trouble. '''You are unlikely to cause offence by having a discussion about local politics, economics and history'''; Mexicans consider them good conversational topics and are more than happy to delight you with such discussions. This said, sensitive subjects like illegal immigration to the US, crime, or the drug war are likely to arouse strong emotions. Mexicans are well aware of their country's problems and would like to forget about them once in a while. Also, you might be surprised at how much Mexicans know about the politics of your country – especially the times in its history when they feel your country has screwed Mexico over (which applies especially for Spain, France and the U.S.). That said, Mexican history tends to be viewed as a series of shades of grey — there are those who feel the need to extol economic growth under Porfirio Díaz, just like there are those who point out anti-democratic tendencies under Benito Juarez. '''A lot of Mexicans do not have a favourable opinion of the Spanish Empire''' and the things they've done in the past. They feel that many of Mexico's problems are rooted in what the Spanish brought over. This said, there are no feelings of resentment towards Spain and Spanish people. '''Try not to assume the worst in people'''. Mexico may have a lot of social and political problems, but that does not mean that everyone is alike. '''The great majority of the population is and traditionally has been Roman Catholic''', and there is still a strong following of this faith among Mexicans from all socioeconomic backgrounds. However, there are sizeable Protestant, Evangelicial, Pentecostal communities (in part due to US missionary activity) and the country also has one of the largest Jehovah's Witnesses communities. The irreligious are a small minority and they are found mostly among college-educated urban dwellers of the middle and upper middle class. Saying anything that hints at atheism or agnosticism may simply be shrugged off, or could incite lengthy discussions or at worst, attempts at proselytizing. As a rule of thumb, try not to have religious discussions with people you're not well acquainted with. === Cultural notes === While overt racism may not be apparent, as a general rule, wealth and social status are historically tied to European ancestry and skin color. Mexican society is sharply divided by social class, with the rich, middle class, and poor often living very separate lives, and can have very distinct cultures. Social practices or tastes of one social group may not be shared by all classes. Clubs, bars, and restaurants may cater largely to one crowd or another, and a wealthier person or tourist may feel out of place or received unwanted attention in a working class cantina; a poor looking person may be blatantly refused service or get unfriendly stares at an exclusive establishment. There are many words in the country according to ethnic background: * Do not be offended to be called a "güero(a)" (blonde) and its diminutive form "güerito(a)" (blondie), as its a common way for the average Mexican citizen to refer mostly to Caucasian people, including white Mexicans. The words "gringo" and its synonym "gabacho" are used regardless of the actual nationality of the tourists and they are not meant as offensive. Actually, they are often used as terms of endearment. * If you are East Asian, you will be referred to as "Chino(a)" (Chinese) and its diminutive form "chinito(a)" regardless of whether you are Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, etc. Exceptions are in the capital, Mexicali, and in Monterrey, where a decent-sized Korean community does exist. * If you are black, "negro(a)" or "negrito(a)" may seem harsh, especially if you are from the US, but it is not a swear word. Although there are few black people in Mexico in many regions of the country (except in on the east and west coasts in the south), Mexicans, especially the younger generations, are not hateful. In fact, a revolutionary who later became the second president was a man of mixed European and African descent, Vicente Guerrero. * Historically, all Middle Easterners were referred to as "turcos" (even if they were from Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, etc.) [[File:Catedral de Guadañajara.JPG|thumb|Guadalajara cathedral]] === Other things to watch out for === If you try to use Spanish to address people, be careful about the use of "tú" (informal, friendly; the verb for calling someone "tú" is tutear) and "usted" (formal, respectful) forms. Using "tú" can be demeaning to people, since this is the form normally used for addressing children or close friends. Use "usted" unless you are sure you can use "tú"; doing so may perhaps seem a shade old-fashioned, but doing otherwise can be pretty rude and embarrassing in some situations. Always use the "usted" form to a law enforcement officer (or other person of authority), even if they may use the "tú" form to talk to you. Otherwise, you can say "tú" to children under 16, to people who genuinely are your friends and to persons who call you by your first name or explicitly have told you to do so. People address each other depending on their social status, age and friendship. To refer to a woman, always call her "señorita" (Miss) unless you are sure that she is married, then you call her "señora" (Mrs). When talking to an older man, use "señor" irrespective of his marital status. If you want to call a waiter, address him as "joven" which means "young man". You may call someone by his professional title ("ingeniero", "arquitecto", "doctor", "oficial", etc.). Actually, Mexican people will use the "tú" and "usted", "first name" or "surname" depending on their relationship, and the code is not easy to learn. While the word "güey" is equivalent to "dude" or "mate" among young people, it is still considered extremely vulgar by the older generation. This abrasive term of endearment is used only between people who have achieved a certain level of trust, so avoid using it. In Mexico, "estúpido" has a far, far worse connotation than "stupid" in English. Due to the highly matriarchal nature of Mexican culture, the combination of words "tu madre" (your mother) is cacophonous and taken offensively by residents, regardless of age or gender. To refer to somebody's mother, remember to replace it with "su señora madre" (roughly "your respected mother") in formal situations or the sweeter "tu mamá" in informal ones. Never, ever use strong language when talking to a woman. You may see displays of male chauvinism. It is falling out of favor, but it is still seen and mostly tolerated in small towns, as well as cities that receive considerable amounts of rural migrants. It can be defined as a male's strong desire for and skill of the domination and imposition of will, on a wife, sister, or any close female. It can also be identified by a strong desire to prove courage through showy bravado and status through a following of yes-men and henchmen. While it is usually not directed towards visitors, it can be in a variety of strengths. It is best to pretend not to notice it and move on. Another type of ''machismo'', which perhaps stems out of the same desires but does not carry any of the antisocial connotations, is male courteousness towards women. This is manifested in standing up when a lady enters a room, opening or holding a door, conceding preference or rights of way, giving up a seat, offering a hand when stepping down from a steep step, etc. It is generally reserved for older women, or women of great power, merit, and social stature. Rejecting these types of friendly gestures is considered arrogant or rude. ==Connect== Cell phones are the most convenient, and usually most inexpensive, way to talk. Before going to Mexico, call your cell phone provider and verify that you have international roaming enabled (and make sure you know what charges you should expect, for domestic and international voice calls and for data, since you will want to use your maps and Uber apps). You can make international calls free if you have an app like WhatsApp or Telegram and connect to Wi-fi before using it. Data rates can be high for cell phone users, but you can manage them by turning off data in your phone's settings except for when you actively want to use an app. If you're going to be in Mexico for an extended period of time, it might be cheaper to use Mexican carriers, either by buying a SIM card or a cheap throwaway phone. If you have an unlocked GSM phone, you can buy a prepaid SIM card in Mexico. The most expensive provider Telcel provides good coverage throughout the country. A SIM card for the Telcel brand amigo express is for M$29 (Nov 2021) e.g., in an Oxxo store. The first recharge must be at least M$50 (Nov 2021). The offers are amongst others:<br> • M$50: 400MB for 7 days (Nov 2021)<br> • M$100: 1,3GB for 15 days (Nov 2021)<br> You can see all rates and recharge [https://www.telcel.com/personas/telefonia/amigo/paquetes-end/paquetes-amigo-sin-limite here]. Recharging Telcel can be also done in an Oxxo. Cheaper providers unfortunately may not be worth the hassle due to slow internet and unreliable connection. Using a Mexican SIM card is often far cheaper than what hotels will charge you for outgoing calls and incoming calls may be free under certain schemes. Mexico operates on the same GSM frequency as the United States, 1900&nbsp;MHz. There's also 4G LTE, with 5G expected to be deployed in the future. Many of which are the same frequencies as in the US. There is a wireless internet connection in almost every restaurant in the big cities. If you're staying for over a week and don't have an unlocked phone, it might be a good idea to buy a cheap handset and a prepaid card. Some areas have only a few internet cafes; in others, they are plentiful. Most of the internet cafes offer calls to the US for a better rate than a payphone, usually via VoIP. You can call from public phones using ''tarjetas ladatel'' (prepaid telephone cards), bought at magazine stalls. Cards can be purchased in M$30, 50 or 100 denominations. The rate to call the US is roughly equivalent to US$0.50 per minute. Beware these are different than tarjetas ''amigo, viva,'' or ''unefon'' (these are only for cellphones). Ladatel cards are becoming increasingly difficult to find and use because public pay phones are an endangered species. While they worked great in 2002, they're seldom useful in 2022. Cell phones are the way to go today. ==Go next== ===To Belize=== There are bus services available from [[Chetumal]] to [[Belmopan]]. ===To Guatemala=== This route is not used by many and still has a touch of adventure: Over Tenosique, La Palma (near Tenosique), by boat on the river Rio San Pedro to [[El Naranjo]] in [[Guatemala]]. Stay firm when negotiating over the price. Absolutely important: Make sure you get your passport stamped before you leave El Naranjo, or you might catch one of the rare buses back and take a walk through the jungle, as the emigration office is partway up the river between the Mexican border and the village. ===To the United States=== The U.S. generally requires a passport for entry. A few express ID cards and trusted traveler cards are also acceptable. U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking entry or reentry by land or sea may use an Enhanced Driver License in place of a passport. U.S. permanent residents need their permanent resident card and may need the passport from their home country. Foreign nationals entering the United States without a permanent resident stamp, including those on the Visa Waiver Program, typically receive an I-94 Arrival-Departure Record or I-94W Visa Waiver Arrival-Departure Record upon arrival in the United States. So long as the I-94 has not expired, you can use it to re-enter the United States with your passport; however, if you hand it in upon exit, you will need to obtain a new card if your visa allows another entry or, if on the Visa Waiver Program, pay a fee of about US$6 to reenter the United States. Unless you are not going to return to the United States, '''keep your I-94 when leaving the [[United States]]''' or you will have a difficult time getting back in, and if your visa is limited to a certain number of entries, you may need to use another entry. Visa Waiver participants cannot reset the 90-day counter unless they leave North America, so ducking into Mexico will not allow you another 90 days. However, it can be reset by travelling, for example, to any Central American country or to Colombia. {{geo|21|-100|zoom=5}} {{isPartOf|North America}} {{outlinecountry}} {{related|Driving_in_Mexico}} 61hy2p0e84ec0oqb5aev1onfir3er4y 5091306 5091305 2025-07-11T10:23:25Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091306 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Teotihuacan Wikivoyage banner.jpg|pgname=Mexico|caption=Teotihuacan}} {{other uses}} '''Mexico''' ([[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]: ''México'') is known for its [[Mexican cuisine|cuisine]], art, archaeology, history, pyramids, music, museums, haciendas, 9,600 km (6,000 mi) of shoreline, superb architecture, weather from snow-capped mountains in the Sierras to rainy jungles in the southeast and desert in the northwest, many golf courses and excellent fishing. Along with [[Chile]], [[Colombia]], and [[Peru]], this once-poor nation is one of the ''Pacific Pumas'', seeing significant economic growth and improved infrastructure during the 21st century. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Mexico regions map.png | regionmaptext=Mexico's regions | regionmapsize=401px | region1name=[[Baja California]] | region1color=#65b99f | region1items=[[Baja California (state)|Baja California]], [[Baja California Sur]] | region1description=The vast western peninsula, stretching 1,200 km from Tijuana on the US border to Cabo in the south. A land of deserts and undiscovered beaches. One of the biggest whale migrations takes place here every year from December to April. Also includes the far-off-shore [[Guadalupe Island]]. | region2name=[[Northern Mexico]] | region2color=#b9ad60 | region2items=[[Chihuahua (state)|Chihuahua]], [[Coahuila]], [[Durango (state)|Durango]], [[Nuevo León]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Sonora]], [[Tamaulipas]] | region2description=The expansive deserts and mountains of the border states; mostly ignored by tourists. Culturally and physically a world away from the tropical south. Includes the bustling industrial city of Monterrey, Mexico's 3rd largest and most affluent, and Copper Canyon, the country's only railroad passing through gorges and indigenous villages. | region3name=[[Bajío|The Bajío]] | region3color=#a463ad | region3items=[[Aguascalientes (state)|Aguascalientes]], [[Guanajuato (state)|Guanajuato]], [[Zacatecas (state)|Zacatecas]], [[San Luis Potosi (state)|San Luis Potosí]], [[Querétaro (state)|Querétaro]] | region3description=The former colonial heartland, this is one of Mexico's most historic regions filled with well-preserved colonial towns that grew rich from silver mining. Includes [[San Miguel de Allende]] and [[Guanajuato]] amongst other lesser known towns. | region4name=[[Central Mexico]] | region4color=#a95858 | region4items=[[Hidalgo]], [[Mexico City]], [[Mexico State]], [[Morelos]], [[Puebla (state)|Puebla]], [[Tlaxcala (state)|Tlaxcala]], [[Veracruz (state)|Veracruz]] | region4description=Mexico City, always the political, cultural and economic center of the country with a sophisticated urban core and a huge urban sprawl surrounding it. Also includes the awesome ruins of Teotihuacan, the historic city of Puebla and Veracruz, one of the country's most overlooked regions. | region5name=[[Pacific Coast (Mexico)|Pacific Coast]] | region5color=#73abab | region5items=[[Colima (state)|Colima]], [[Guerrero]], [[Jalisco]], [[Michoacan]], [[Nayarit]], [[Oaxaca (state)|Oaxaca]] | region5description=Tropical beaches on Mexico's southern coast; Jalisco the birthplace of mariachi and Tequila; Guadalajara, the nation's second largest city; and the Oaxacan highlands, famous for their distinct cuisine. | region6name=[[Yucatán and the South]] | region6color=#67a864 | region6items=[[Campeche (state)|Campeche]], [[Chiapas]], [[Quintana Roo]], [[Tabasco]], [[Yucatán]] | region6description=Jungle and impressive Mayan archaeological sites, along with the Caribbean and Gulf coast with well-known resorts like Tulum and Cancun. The colonial city of Merida and the jungle ruins of Palenque. Geographically isolated from the rest of the country, part of Central America (the dividing line being the Isthmus of Tehuantepec), it is culturally closer to Guatemala and Belize than the rest of Mexico, where Mayan culture is very much alive. }} ==Cities== {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#65b99f|title=[[Baja California]]|wikidata=Q58731,Q46508}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b9ad60|title=[[Northern Mexico]]|wikidata=Q655,Q53079,Q79918,Q15282,Q80252,Q46422,Q80007}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a463ad|title=[[Bajío|The Bajío]]|wikidata=Q79952,Q46475,Q80269,Q78980,Q79754}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a95858|title=[[Central Mexico]]|wikidata=Q80903,Q1489,Q82112,Q66117,Q79923,Q82681,Q60130}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#73abab|title=[[Pacific Coast (Mexico)|Pacific Coast]]|wikidata=Q61309,Q60158,Q13160,Q79861,Q79920,Q34110}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#67a864|title=[[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]|wikidata=Q80908,Q60123,Q80245,Q80914,Q60176}} {{Mapframe|22.53|-102.55|zoom=4}} [[File:Plaza de la Constitucion Ciudad de Mexico City.jpg|thumbnail|Plaza de la Constitución, also known as Zocalo, Mexico City]] <includeonly>THIS LIST SHOULD ONLY INCLUDE 9 CITIES - DO NOT ADD OR REPLACE CITIES WITHOUT FIRST USING DISCUSSION</includeonly> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mexico City]]|wikidata=Q1489}} – Capital of the republic, one of the three largest cities in the world, and a sophisticated urban hub with a 700-year history. In Mexico City, you will find everything from parks, Aztec ruins, colonial architecture, museums, to nightlife and shopping. <!-- As of November 2021 there are travel warnings for Acapulco and the whole state. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Acapulco]]|wikidata=Q81398}} - A sophisticated urban beach setting known for its top-notch nightlife, elegant dining, and nightmarish traffic. Many of the older (pre-1990s) concrete structures have suffered tropical decay.--> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cancún]]|wikidata=Q8969}} – One of the world's most popular and famous beaches, known for its clear Caribbean waters, its lively party atmosphere, and its wealth of recreational facilities. During the U.S. college Spring Break (mid-Feb to the end of March) it is noted for drinking, sunburns, and debauchery. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Guadalajara]]|wikidata=Q9022}} – A traditional city, capital of [[Jalisco]] state, and the home of mariachi music and tequila. Guadalajara is blessed with perpetual spring weather and its colonial downtown is graceful and sophisticated. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mazatlan]]|wikidata=Q40194}} – Lively Pacific coast town, Mazatlan is a shipping port, a transportation hub with ferries to Baja California, and a beach resort destination with miles of sandy shore. It is a popular U.S. college Spring Break destination due to its variety of affordable lodging options. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Monterrey]]|wikidata=Q81033}} – A large modern city that is the commercial and industrial hub of Northern Mexico. Monterrey enjoys a dry, mountainous setting and is known for its high-quality educational and transportation infrastructure. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[San Luis Potosi]]|wikidata=Q204271}} – A colonial city in central Mexico that was once an important silver producer, but today, relies on manufacturing for its economic base. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taxco]]|wikidata=Q990095}} – In central Mexico west of Cuernavaca, this steep mountain town was once a major silver producer, and now has a strong place in the trade of decorative silver, from cheap fittings to the most elegant jewelry and elaborate castings. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tijuana]]|wikidata=Q124739}} – Mexico's busiest border crossing for pedestrians and private vehicles, and a long-time bargain Mecca for southern Californians due to its proximity to [[San Diego]]. ==Other destinations== [[File:Barranca del Cobre-El Divisadero17-10-2005CIMG3344.jpg|thumbnail|The moon is rising over Copper Canyon]] <!--This section is to include only destinations that are NOT cities/towns.--> * {{marker|name=[[Copper Canyon]]|wikidata=Q674485}} (Barrancas del Cobre) – An exotic destination for travelers looking for a unique remote adventure! An awesome mountain rail ride -- one of the greatest in the world -- takes you upwards over 2,440 m (8000 feet) on the CHEPE, the Chihuahua al Pacifico Railway. Hiking, horseback riding, birding, and Tarahumara Indians. Copper Canyon, the Sierra Madre and the Chihuahuan desert of Mexico. This area is designed for adventurous individuals who will tolerate some rough travel to get to their points of interest (although the famous train ride isn't demanding at all). Copper Canyon, a magnificent remote wilderness is not likely ever to become a mass market destination. * {{marker|name='''Sea of Cortez''' (Gulf of California)|wikidata=Q132811}} – See whale birthings, swim with dolphins, and sea kayak in the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez, along the eastern coast of Baja California, near La Paz. National Geographic says the sunsets at [[San Carlos (Mexico)|San Carlos]] are some of the most spectacular in the world. * {{marker|name=[[Monarch Butterfly Reserves]]|wikidata=Q852546}} – Protected natural areas in the highlands of the state of Michoacán. Millions of butterflies come to the area between November and March of each year, although numbers have declined sharply. This is a {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Chiapas|Sumidero Canyon]]|wikidata=Q60123}} – From docks on the Rio Grijalva (the only major river within Mexico) near [[Tuxtla Gutiérrez]] in Chiapas state, tour launches take you into this steep-walled [[Mexico national parks|National Park]]. You'll likely see vast flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterfowl, as well as crocodiles. * {{marker|name=[[Mexico national parks]]}} - Mexico has 67 national parks; these include protected natural areas and national monuments and historical sites ===Archaeological sites=== [[File:Palace at Palenque.jpg|thumbnail|Palenque]] * {{marker|name=[[Chichen Itza]]|wikidata=Q5859}} – Majestic Mayan city, declared a {{unesco}} in 1988 and was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. * {{marker|name=[[Ek Balam]]|wikidata=Q988570}} – A reconstructed Mayan site, famous for its unique decorated stucco and stone-carved temples that you can climb. * {{marker|name=[[El Tajín]]|wikidata=Q753895}} – In the state of Veracruz near the town of Papantla. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Monte Alban]]|wikidata=Q464899}} – In the state of Oaxaca, a Zapotec site dating from about 500 BC. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Palenque]]|wikidata=Q181427}} – Mayan city in the state of Chiapas, Palenque famous for its elaborate paintings. Also well known for having the largest tract of rainforest in Mexico located in the same area. * {{marker|name=[[Teotihuacan]]|wikidata=Q172613}} – An enormous pre-Columbian site with several large pyramids near Mexico City. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Tulum]]|wikidata=Q277408}} – Mayan coastal city with spectacular Caribbean vistas. Dates from late Mayan period. * {{marker|name=[[Uxmal]]|wikidata=Q213232}} – Impressive Mayan city-state in the Puuc Region, declared a {{unesco}} in 1996. ===Small towns=== The Mexican government has designated more than 100 scenic small towns as '''[[Pueblos Mágicos]]'''. States can apply to have towns added to the carefully curated list, but they must provide sites of genuine tourist value (historical or cultural) and guarantee adequate levels of tourism infrastructure. All Pueblos Magicos are within a few hours drive of a major city that has good airline connections. Some of the Pueblos Magicos (such as [[Tequila]]) are well-known and quite popular. Most are off the beaten path and offer rich opportunities for quiet exploration. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMexico.png}} Mexico, the '''United Mexican States''' (Spanish: ''Estados Unidos Mexicanos''), is one of the most visited countries in the world. Much of the tourist industry is centered around the beach resorts as well as the ''altiplano'' in the central part of the country. Visiting the northern interior allows visitors to get off the beaten path a bit. U.S. American tourists tend to predominate on the [[Baja California]] peninsula and the more modernized beach resorts ([[Cancún]], [[Puerto Vallarta]]), while European tourists congregate around the smaller resort areas in the south like [[Playa del Carmen]] and colonial towns [[San Cristobal de las Casas]]. Canadians often favor smaller beach resorts like [[Huatulco]] or [[Ixtapa]]. ===Climate=== Mexico uses the [[Metric and Imperial equivalents|metric system]] for all measurements. All weather forecasts are in Celsius (°C). ==== Central and southern Mexico==== April is already the hottest month, especially at the coast and on the Yucatán peninsula. Towns which aren't that hot in April and during the summer are [[Mexico City]], [[Toluca]]/[[Metepec]], [[San Cristobal de las Casas]], [[Pachuca]] and [[Zacatecas]]. Hurricanes can be common in the coastal cities specially those near the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. ====Northern Mexico ==== It gets rather cold during the winter except on the coast. There is sometimes snow in certain places like the Sierra Madre of Chihuahua, Durango, Coahuila, Nuevo León and northern Tamaulipas. Northern Mexico gets very hot during the summer with sudden violent storms in the afternoon, with heavy rain and hail. The temperatures during the day can exceed 39°C (100°F). Less hot during the summer is Tijuana. ===Landscape=== [[File:Citlalepetl2.JPG|thumbnail|Pico de Orizaba or Citlaltépetl is Mexico's highest mountain]] High, rugged mountains; low coastal plains; high plateaus; temperate plains with grasslands and Mezquite trees in the northeast, desert and even more rugged mountains in the northwest, tropical rainforests in the south and southeast [[Chiapas]], [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]] semiarid in places like [[Aguascalientes]], [[San Luis Potosí]] and temperate coniferous and deciduous forests in the central part of the country [[Mexico City]], [[Toluca]]. === Holidays === Actual non-working days may shift to the Monday before the holiday, so check an up-to-date calendar. Government offices are closed nationwide on official holidays and on election days. {| class="wikitable" !Date !Name !Things to know !Official? |- |January 1 |New Year's Day (''Año Nuevo'') | |official |- |January 6 |Epiphany (''Día de los Reyes Magos'') |Celebrating arrival of the Three Wise Men to see and bring gifts to the baby Jesus |not official |- |February 2 |Candlemas (''Día de la Candelaria'') |Catholic holiday related to Christmas |not official |- |First Monday of February |Constitution Day |For the events of 1917 |official |- |February 24 |Flag Day (''Día de la Bandera'') | |not official |- |Monday on or before March 21 |Birth of Benito Juárez |Mexico's first president of indigenous origin. |official |- |March or April |Easter (''Pascua'') |Easter is widely observed nationwide, according to the yearly Catholic calendar (the first Sunday after the first full moon in Spring). | |- |April 30 |Children's Day (''Día del Niño'') | | |- |May 1 |Labor Day (''Día del Trabajo'' ) | |official |- |May 5 |Cinco de Mayo |For the Battle of Puebla against the French army in 1862. Visitors from the U.S. may be surprised to learn that it is not a major holiday in Mexico, and is not much celebrated by locals, except in the [[Puebla (state)|state of Puebla]]. |not official |- |May 10 |Mother's Day |A particularly important family-centric holiday. Some cities hold parades. Offices may be closed, restaurants will be packed full, and mariachi bands will race from one family to the next. If you are visiting someone's home, bring flowers for the mothers and grandmothers. | |- |May 15 |Teacher's Day (''Día del Maestro'') |A day to appreciate schoolteachers. Some schools close and others have special activities. |not official |- |September 1 |Presidential Address Day | | |- |September 15 |Cry of Dolores (''Grito de Dolores'') |A patriotic holiday to celebrate the first event of the Mexican War of Independence in 1810, especially in the city of [[Dolores Hidalgo]] |not official |- |September 16 |Independence Day |Celebrates the start of the 11-year-long fight for the independence from Spain that began in 1810 |official |- |October 12 |Day of the Race (''Día de la Raza'') |Related to Columbus' arrival in the Americas in 1492 |not official |- |November 2 |[[Day of the Dead]](''Día de Muertos'') |The Mexican answer to Halloween celebrates family and friends who have died. Expect sugar candy shaped like skulls and ''pan de muerto'' (a somewhat sweet type of white bread). |not official |- |Third Monday of November |Mexican Revolution Day |For the events of 1910. |official |- |December 12 |Virgin Mary of Guadalupe Day |A Catholic religious holiday, and one of the most important Mexican holidays |not official |- |December 24 |Christmas Eve (''Nochebuena'') |Normally a full non-working day. Usually a family-centered evening. May be preceded by nine days of parties in the evenings, called ''Las Posadas'' ("the inns")''.'' |not official |- |December 25 |Christmas (''Navidad'') | |official |- |December 31 |New Year's Eve |Normally a full non-working day. Expect firecrackers and lots of noise at midnight. |not official |} ===Time=== [[File:Mexico time zones map en.svg|300px|thumbnail|Mexican time zones]] The 24-hour clock system has traditionally been used for time keeping. Today, both the 24-hour clock and the 12-hour clock are commonly used (roughtly equally), though the younger generation seems more inclined to express times using the 12-hour clock. Mexico uses these four time zones: * '''Northwest Zone''' (UTC−8, corresponds to U.S. Pacific Time): [[Baja California (state)]] * '''Pacific Zone''' (UTC−7, corresponds to U.S. Mountain Time): [[Baja California Sur]], [[Chihuahua (state)]], [[Nayarit]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Sonora]] * '''Central Zone''' (UTC−6, corresponds to U.S. Central Time): The rest of the country, except [[Quintana Roo]] * '''Southeastern Zone''' (UTC−5, corresponds to U.S. Eastern Time): [[Quintana Roo]] Most of Mexico is on standard time year round. Daylight savings time is observed only in a few places. Communities on the U.S. border, except in Sonora, observe DST on the U.S. schedule. The state of Baja California also observes DST on the U.S. schedule (but Baja California Sur does not). ===History=== ====Pre-Columbian==== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica}} Among the earliest complex civilizations in Mexico was the '''Olmec''' culture that flourished on the Gulf Coast in 1500 BCE. Olmec culture diffused through Mexico into formative era cultures in Chiapas, Oaxaca and the Valley of Mexico. In Central Mexico the height of the classical period saw the ascendancy of Teotihuacan, which formed a military and commercial empire. It had the largest structures of pyramids built in the pre-Columbian Americas. During the early post-classic Mexico was dominated by '''Toltec culture''', and the lowland '''Maya''' had important areas at Calakmul and Chichen Itza. At the end of the post-Classical period, the '''Aztecs''' built a tributary empire covering most of Central Mexico. The Mesoamerican cultural traditions ended in the 16th century and over the next centuries, Mexican indigenous cultures were under Spanish colonial rule. However, contrary to popular misconceptions neither the Maya nor the Aztec culture ever entirely "disappeared" and to this day many Mexicans trace at least part of their heritage to indigenous roots and language such as Nahuatl and numerous Maya tongues are still spoken by hundreds of thousands or even millions of Mexicans. Indigenous elements are visible even today in loanwords in Mexican Spanish, traditional dress, Mexican cuisine, architecture and even religious observances (nominally "catholic" to varying degrees). The eagle and the snake on a cactus depicted on the Mexican flag, for example, refers to an Aztec legend about the founding of Tenochtitlan, the city that now is Mexico City. ====Colonial and early independence==== {{main|Colonial Mexico}} Mexico remained under Spanish colonial rule until 1821 when it declared independence under the terms of "Plan of Iguala". After the short lived Mexican empire of 1821-1823 (former Spanish general and independence hero Augustin de Iturbide briefly declared himself emperor but was overthrown after two years) Mexico became a republic with a fragile balance of powers between liberals (allied mostly with urban merchants) and conservatives (allied with the church and big landholders) and Antonio López de Santa Anna became president several times while also being overthrown by his opponents several times thus having eight non-consecutive terms as president as well as five "permanent" exiles. ====Independent Mexico==== {{main|Mexican War of Independence}} The early Mexican state was anything but stable. Texas (under the leadership of US-American immigrants who wanted to make Texas a slave-holding state of the US) and Yucatán seceded at several points. Maya rebels fought against both the Yucatán independence movement and the federal government in the so-called "Caste war". After Texas gained ''de facto'' independence a disagreement as to its southern border (the Nueces river as claimed by Mexico or the Rio Grande as claimed by Texas) led to the involvement of the US in a brief war that ended in a devastating defeat for Mexico (the line about the "halls of Montezuma" in the marines' song refers to the presidential palace in Mexico city that was conquered by the US) and the loss of Alta California (now the US state of California), Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico as well as the definite loss of Texas north of the Rio Grande. The ceded territories were rapidly colonized by immigrants from Europe and the eastern United States; see [[Old West]]. ====French intervention and Second Mexican empire==== {{main|Post-Independence Mexico}} In 1861, when president Benito Juarez suspended the payment of Mexico's debt, France decided to invade the country in order to regain some or all of its money. This was only possible because the United States, which had declared in its Monroe Doctrine that it wouldn't tolerate any European intervention in the sovereign states of the Americas, started its [[American Civil War|Civil War]] that same year. After overthrowing the government (though Mexican resistance against the occupiers never ceased) the French installed a Habsburg prince as emperor Maximilian I to act as their puppet. While the Mexican monarchy had some support among conservatives its days were numbered when the French troops were withdrawn after the end of the American Civil war, and in 1867, Maximilian was executed by firing squad. Cinco de Mayo, which in the US is often mistaken to be "Mexican independence day", is celebrated in remembrance of the battle of [[Puebla]] that occurred during the French occupation and was decisively won by Mexican republican forces. ====Benito Juárez==== [[File:Estatua de Benito Juárez.jpg|thumb|Statue of Benito Juárez in [[Hidalgo]]]] Benito Juárez was the first president of indigenous descent in all of Latin America and is one very few figures that is still almost exclusively seen as a positive figure in Mexican history. He was president from 1858 to 1864 and again from 1867 to his death in 1872. His saying "el respeto al derecho ajeno es la paz" (respect for the rights of others is peace) is still frequently quoted. ====Porfirio Díaz==== Porfirio Díaz, a general during the French intervention rose to power shortly after the death of Juárez and ruled Mexico from 1876 to 1911. While initially willing and able to reform and modernize the country, the sheer length of his reign and his corruption led to a lot of unhappiness about his government and in 1911 the Mexican revolution broke out to unseat him from power, but it soon devolved into factional fighting between various claimants for power and attempts at radical social and economic reform. ====The Mexican Revolution==== {{main|Mexican Revolution}} The Mexican Revolution was a complex civil war and period of political intrigue and treachery. The Revolution started in 1910 with resistance against a blatantly fraudulent election manipulated by Porfirio Díaz. The Revolution really ignited into full-scale war when the elected president (Madero) was assassinated by Díaz loyalists. Several factions had different complaints about Díaz and his corrupt, never-ending dictatorship. Groups loyal to Venustiano Carranza wanted constitutional reforms. Groups loyal to Emiliano Zapata wanted land reforms and rights for the indigenous. Other groups demanded an end to resource giveaways to foreign industrial interests, while others demanded an end to excessive power of the Catholic church. The groups eventually coalesced behind the Constitutionalists and stable government was restored by 1920. ====Under the PRI==== {{main|Modern Mexico}} Once the dust of the revolution had settled the Revolutionary Institutional Party (PRI [pronounced /pree/] for its Spanish name) became the dominant political force and all presidents before the early 1990s were members of the PRI. They did not establish a one party state and other parties were still legal and participated in elections. However, the success of the PRI candidate (especially at the federal level) was almost always a given. As such, political power struggles mostly took place within the PRI, with more conservative or left wing factions gaining the upper hand from time to time. In 1988, during a presidential election that was actually close for the first time in decades, a computer that counted the votes supposedly crashed. The words with which this was announced "se cayó el sistema" are noted for their ambiguity as they can mean either "the computer broke down" or "the (political) system fell". Nonetheless, according to the official result (which was and still is doubted by many), the PRI candidate won a six-year term in office just narrowly surpassing the 50% threshold needed to avoid a runoff election. In 2000 the PRI finally lost its first presidential election when Vicente Fox of the conservative National Action Party (PAN) won a narrow victory in a three-way race. In 2006 the PAN won again with Felipe Calderon being elected president but in 2012 the PRI returned to power with Enrique Peña Nieto, who promised to end the drug war being elected to the presidency. Whether this proves temporary or the PRI has indeed regained its once dominant status, remains yet to be seen. ====Mexico today==== {{main|Modern Mexico}} Despite problems such as corruption and the drug war in the North (with some areas under ''de facto'' control of different cartels), Mexico has grown steadily, and there have been democratic multiparty elections with peaceful transition of power. A fairly stable three party system has emerged: the PAN (conservative) and PRI (centrist, catch all, sometimes leftist) have each won the presidency several times and the PRD (left of the PRI) has been a serious contender in almost all elections. The drug war is ongoing and some parts of the country are not entirely safe, but the situation has bettered a lot after the 2000s. Generally the North with cities such as Ciudad Juarez notorious for their violence is more dangerous than the south and Yucatán is among the safest regions in Latin America. For more on the effects of the drug war see the stay safe section of this article and the individual region articles. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) assumed power on December 1, 2018, after waging a populist, anti-corruption campaign and winning the 2018 election with more than a 30% margin over his next closest opponent. He is the leader of the center-left National Regeneration Movement (MORENA). Having had a reputation as a leftist firebrand in the past, AMLO has moderated his politics in order to appeal to a wider share of the electorate, though he remains a solidly left-leaning, populist politician. Under his leadership, Mexico has served as a moderator in wider Latin American politics, for example, in the Venezuelan and Bolivian crises, while also navigating relations with the United States government over trade and migrant issues. In 2024, Mexico elected Claudia Sheinbaum as its first female and first Jewish president to succeed AMLO. ===Visitor information === *[https://visitmexico.com/eng/home-2 Visit Mexico] website ==Get in== {{cautionbox| Mexico charges M$390 (2016) per person that has spent more than 7 days (inclusive) in the country, e.g., 1st to 7th is 7 days. Payable on exit whatever the mode of transportation. On entrance, officials may say that 7 days is non-inclusive but you will find out otherwise when you exit the country. If you flew into Mexico on a commercial flight, the cost of your plane ticket already included the tourism tax and you absolutely do ''not'' need to pay it again upon exiting. You will need to prove to the border officials that you have already paid, by showing the following: #Your FMM card you received upon arrival, and #An itemized receipt from your flight purchase showing the Tourism Tax Certain foreign nationals who can enter Mexico with only a passport and FMM Card, and stay up to 180 days as tourists (30 days for business travelers) are no longer granted the full 180 days by default as is it was in the past. Always check your passport stamp and FMM card upon arrival to determine how many days are granted before walking away from the immigration counter. Ask the immigration officer if you cannot read the handwriting to be sure how many days you are granted to stay in the country. NEVER assume that you are granted the full 180 days or they will automatically tell you if you are given less than 180 days. You can arbitrarily be granted any number of days from 3 to the full 180 days depending on the whim of the immigration officer who can also check for an onward ticket out of Mexico, hotel reservations, proof of funds, etc. Travelers have reported to have been detained for over-staying the less than 180 day time allotted to them when they entered and it is uncertain how long the travelers are/will be detained (at any length of time) before deportation out of Mexico. The immigration authorities and military do set up random checkpoints in the interior to stop passing traffic and check the travelers' ID cards (Mexican nationals) and the visa status of foreign nationals.}} ===Visa and other entrance requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Mexico.png|thumb|450px|Visa policy of Mexico]] [[File:Mexico entry.png|thumb|Mexican entry stamp]] According to the [http://www.sre.gob.mx/english/ Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Secretaria de Relaciones Exteriores)]{{Dead link|date=October 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, certain foreign nationals who intend to stay in Mexico fewer than 180 days for the purpose of tourism or 30 days for business can fill out a tourist card at the border or upon landing at an airport after presenting a valid passport, for US$22. If arriving via air, it is included in the price of the fare. This service is available to citizens of [[Andorra]], [[Argentina]], [[Aruba]], [[Australia]], [[Austria]], [[Bahamas]], [[Barbados]], [[Belgium]], [[Belize]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[Colombia]], [[Costa Rica]], [[Cyprus]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Denmark]], [[Estonia]], [[Finland]], [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Great Britain]], [[Greece]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Hungary]], [[Ireland]], [[Iceland]], [[Israel]], [[Italy]], [[Jamaica]], [[Japan]], [[Latvia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Lithuania]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Macau]], [[Malaysia]], [[Malta]], [[Marshall Islands]], [[Micronesia]], [[Monaco]], [[Netherlands]], [[New Zealand]], [[Norway]], [[Palau]], [[Panama]], [[Paraguay]], [[Peru]], [[Poland]], [[Portugal]], [[Puerto Rico]], [[Romania]], [[San Marino]], [[Singapore]], [[Slovakia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Spain]], [[South Korea]], [[Sweden]], [[Switzerland]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[United States of America|United States]] and [[Uruguay]] (see official list [https://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/Paises_No_Visa/en.html here]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}). Permanent residents of the United States, Canada, Japan, United Kingdom, and Schengen area countries are also eligible for visas on arrival regardless of citizenship. The Mexican tourist card is a ''Forma Migratoria Múltiple'' (Multiple Immigration Form), or FMM. It has a perforation that divides the card into two parts, of which the right side asks for some of the same information requested on the left side. At entry, after reviewing your passport and filled-out FMM, the immigration officer will stamp your passport and the FMM, separate the FMM along the perforation and give the right side of the FMM back to you with your passport. The paper tourist card is being phased out. At many ports of entry (including [[Benito Juárez International Airport|Mexico City's international airport]]), you will not have to complete a paper form. Rather, the immigration officer will stamp your passport. A digital version of the tourist card (FMMd, ''Forma Migratoria Múltiple Digital'') will be generated for you, which can be downloaded from [https://www.inm.gob.mx/spublic/portal/inmex.html the website]. If you have a paper FMM, keep it with your passport at all times. It is your responsibility to make sure the right side of the FMM is returned to the Mexican government at time of departure so that the bar code can be scanned, thus showing that you left the country on time. For example, if you are flying with Aeromexico, they will ask for your passport and FMM at check-in for your flight home, then staple your FMM to your boarding pass. You are expected to then hand the boarding pass together with your FMM to the gate agent as you board your flight. If you lose your FMM during your visit to Mexico, you may be subject to substantial delays and fines before you can leave the country. [https://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/Inicio_Autorizacion_Electronica/en.html Electronic Authorization System (SAE, Autorización Electrónica)]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for travelling to Mexico is available on the Internet for nationals from [[Russia]], [[Turkey]], and [[Ukraine]]. Russians, Ukrainians, and Turkish citizens with permanent residency or a valid visa to Canada, the US, Japan, the UK, or any Schengen country don't need an SAE. Other nationalities must contact a Mexican consulate in order to find out the requirements for citizens of their country, and may have to apply for and obtain a visa in advance of travel. If you are in need of other information, Mexico has diplomatic offices in the following cities around the world. The consulates in the USA are typically open for business to non-citizens (by telephone or in-person) only from 08:30 to 12:30. If you cross the border via road, do not expect the authorities to automatically signal you to fill out your paperwork. You will have to locate the border office yourself. The immigration officer at your point of entry into Mexico can request that you demonstrate that you have sufficient economic solvency. The immigration officer can demand a round trip ticket. Be advised if you only booked a one-way ticket to Mexico: The airline may want to see a ticket that carries you out of Mexico, especially when flying from an equally or less developed country than Mexico – also if your passport is from a highly industrialized nation. It could be that the airline wants to see that onward ticket as "early" as at the gate, where you may not have enough time to buy one. So have at least an onward ticket from specialized websites for around US$10 (Nov 2021) ready when heading to the airport for your flight for Mexico. If you do not intend to travel past the "border zone" and your stay does not exceed three days, U.S. and Canadian nationals require only a proof of citizenship. Reentry into the United States generally requires a passport, but a U.S. or Canadian Enhanced Drivers License (or Enhanced Photo ID) or U.S. passport card is acceptable for reentry by land or sea. ===By plane=== [[File:Fila Aeroméxico.JPG|thumbnail|Aeromexico planes at Benito Juarez International Airport]] ====From the United States and Canada==== There are hundreds of daily flights linking Mexico to cities large and small throughout North America. This includes legacy carriers such as Air Canada, Aeromexico, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta, and discount airlines such as JetBlue, Spirit, WestJet, and Southwest Airlines. Also to be considered are the Mexican discount carriers '''Volaris''', which operate from several major US cities through their hubs in [[Mexico City]] and [[Guadalajara]], and '''Viva Aerobus''', which also operates from several major US cities through hubs in [[Mexico City]] and [[Monterrey]]. '''United Airlines'''/'''United Express''' fly to many smaller market Mexican cities and resort areas, including Aguascaliente, Chihuahua, Ciudad de Carmen, Durango, Huatulco, Leon/Guanajuato, Oaxaca, Merida, San Luis Potosi, Torreon, Tampico, Veracruz and Villahermosa. As in the United States and Canada, you will have to clear immigration ''and'' customs at your first Mexican port of entry, even though that airport may not be your final destination. (For example, many trips on Aeromexico will involve connecting through its Mexico City hub.) You will then have to re-check your bags and go through security again to proceed to your next flight segment. ====From Australia or New Zealand==== Fly from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne or Auckland (NZ) direct to Los Angeles on American Airlines, Delta, Qantas, and United. Air New Zealand offers one-stop air service from Australia and non-stop air service from Auckland to Los Angeles. Hawaiian Airlines and Air Tahiti Nui offer one- or two-stop air service to Los Angeles from Australia and New Zealand. Many airlines continue from [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles]] to Mexico including AeroMexico/Aeromexico Connect, Alaska Airlines, Volaris, United and Virgin America, some of which have interline or alliance ticketing and baggage check through. More options are available if connecting through another US city. Also, make sure to have a good look at visas beforehand – even just for transit you will need something for the US, and if you get a visa waiver, they treat Mexico as part of the US, meaning if you stay longer than 90 days in Mexico, you will need to travel further south before returning to the US. ====From Europe==== Most commercial airlines link Mexico directly from Europe. There are direct flights to [[Benito Juarez International Airport|Mexico City]] ({{IATA|MEX}}) and [[Cancun#By plane|Cancun]] ({{IATA|CUN}}) from Paris ({{IATA|CDG}}), [[London#By plane|London]] ({{IATA|LON}}), Madrid ({{IATA|MAD}}), [[Schiphol Airport|Amsterdam]] ({{IATA|AMS}}), and [[Frankfurt airport|Frankfurt]] ({{IATA|FRA}}). Some carriers will serve both Mexico City and Cancun while others will only serve one and not the other (usually only to Cancun such as those from Russia and Italy). Additional flights to Cancun from Europe may only be available as charters and some may operate during the winter months (December–February) only. It is always worth to compare flight offers from air carriers and charter companies who can bring you to Mexico City or Cancun via many European hubs. The flight duration from those cities is always approximately 11 hours. ===By train=== From the United States to Mexico the nearest '''[http://www.amtrak.com Amtrak]''' stations are in [[San Diego#By train|San Diego]], [[Yuma#By train|Yuma]], [[Del Rio#By rail|Del Rio]] and [[El Paso#By train|El Paso]]. The frequent ''[http://www.pacificsurfliner.com Pacific Surfliner]'' connects San Diego from [[San Luis Obispo]] via [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]]; while the ''[http://www.amtrak.com/sunset-limited-train Sunset Limited]'' and ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/texas-eagle-train.html Texas Eagle]'' pass by Yuma, El Paso and Del Rio between [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Antonio]]. In San Antonio the ''Texas Eagle'' continues northwards towards [[Chicago]] while the ''Sunset Limited'' continues east to [[New Orleans#By train|New Orleans]]. Amtrak trains do not cross the border into Mexico so passengers continue to the border by local public transportation or by taxi from the Amtrak station. The '''Tren Maya''' has a station along the [[Belize]] border in the city of [[Chetumal]]. Buses are available there for onward travel to [[Mérida (Mexico)|Merida]], [[Cancún]] or other destinations in the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]. The Tren Maya also has two stops near the [[Guatemala]] border (at El Triunfo and at Boca del Cerro), but neither have scheduled transportation to any Guatemalan destinations. ===By car=== [[File:SanYsidroBorderCrossingByPhilKonstantin.jpg|thumbnail|Crossing into Mexico from the U.S. near Tijuana]] American automobile insurance is not accepted in Mexico; however, it is easy to obtain short-term or long-term tourist policies that include the mandatory liability coverage, theft and accident coverage for your vehicle, and often, legal assistance coverage. Should you decide to drive to Mexico, the [http://www.sct.gob.mx/ Transport and Communications Secretariat website] has free downloadable road maps. Foreign-plated vehicles must obtain necessary permits before being allowed into the interior of Mexico. This can be done at the border checkpoints by showing your vehicle title or registration, as well as immigration documents and a valid credit card. It is now possible to apply for your vehicle import permit online. Vehicle permits will only be issued to the registered owner of the vehicle, so the papers will have to be in the name of the applicant. The Baja California peninsula and the northern part of the State of Sonora do not require a permit. Driving a '''rental car''' from the United States into Mexico is possible with some of the large multinational companies, but the process is rather cumbersome. You will need to inform your car rental company in advance and purchase additional Mexican insurance (since U.S. car insurance does not cover Mexico), and you cannot drive beyond the border region into the interior of Mexico. You also cannot drop off a U.S. rental car in Mexico, and must return to the U.S. to drop it off. In the reverse direction, Mexican rental cars are usually not permitted to be driven into the U.S. Due to the contraband crossing the US-Mexico border (drugs and illegal immigration into the US, drug money and weapons into Mexico), expect long delays and thorough searches of vehicles when crossing the border. At some of the busiest crossings, expect a waiting time of 1–3 hours. ===By bus=== ''See main article, [[Bus travel in Mexico]]''. Buses are the most widely used transportation system in Mexico with routes going to all parts of the country. Long-distance buses are very comfortable and affordable. All border crossings have bus stations where buses can take you to interior cities, often to large bus terminals providing connections to virtually any major city or tourist destination. From the southern United States, many companies provide trans-border service with modern, comfortable buses that cross the border. You can take a bus from [[Chicago]] all the way to [[Mexico City]], though some companies will only take you to the border region where you can connect to a domestic Mexican bus company for onward travel to the interior of Mexico. A list of these companies is in [[Bus travel in Mexico]]. Buses are also available from Central America into Mexico. These buses usually go to [[Tapachula]], where you can connect to domestic Mexican bus companies for onward travel to the interior. Buses from [[Belize City]] will take you to [[Chetumal]] where you can connect to a Mexican bus or to the Tren Maya for onward rail journeys. ===By boat=== * Border crossing from [[Guatemala]]. * Cruise ships from the United States. ==Get around== Travelling in Mexico is most practical by bus, car, or air. Passenger transport by train is possible in some areas. most extensively in the Yucatán Peninsula, with its modern ''Tren Maya'' service. The '''Chihuahua del Pacifico''' railroad is one of the most scenic railroads in the world, passing through the Copper Canyon, and departing from Los Mochis on the Pacific coast, or Creel in the east. They cross each other roughly midways at '''Divisadero and Barrancas''' Copper Canyon stations at an altitude of 2100&nbsp;m (7000&nbsp;ft). ===By car=== {{main|Driving in Mexico}} [[File:Highway120PinalAmoles.JPG|thumbnail|Highway 120 passing through the village of Pinal de Amoles]] Due to a government scheme in the early 1990s to create infrastructure, the best roads are toll roads. Toll roads can be relatively costly but are much faster and better maintained. First-class buses generally travel by toll roads (and the toll is included in the ticket price). US vehicle insurance is not valid in Mexico. Mexican auto insurance has been required since 2018; if you have even a minor accident without insurance, you could land in jail. [http://www.mexipass.com/ MexiPass] and AAA offer Mexican auto insurance. When traveling on Mexican roads, especially near the borders with the United States and Guatemala, one will probably encounter several checkpoints operated by the Mexican Army searching for illegal weapons and drugs. If you are coming from the United States, you may not be used to this, and it can be intimidating. However, these are rarely a problem for honest people. Simply do what the soldiers tell you to do, and treat them with respect. The best way to show respect when entering a checkpoint is to turn your music down, lift sunglasses from your face, and be prepared to roll your window down. They should treat you with respect as well, and they usually do. If you are asked to unpack any part of your vehicle, do so without complaint. It is their right to make you completely unload in order for them to inspect your cargo. Tourists are often warned about travelling on roads at night. Although ''bandidos'' are rare in more metropolitan areas, err on the side of caution in more rural areas. The best bet is to drive during only daylight hours. Cattle, dogs, and other animals also can appear on the roadway unexpectedly, so if you do have to drive at night, be very cautious. If possible, follow a bus or truck that seems to be driving safely. Foreign drivers' licenses are recognized and recommended. Speeding tickets are common, and to ensure your presence at the hearing, the officer may choose to keep your license. He is within his rights to do so. Beware though, police officers are known to keep driver's licenses until they are given a bribe. At petrol (gas) stations, make sure the pump is zeroed out before the attendant begins pumping your gas so that you don't end up paying more than you should. Good maps are invaluable and the Mexico maps included in "North American Road Atlas" books are worse than useless. The Guia Roji maps are particularly good. If you arrive in Mexico by airplane but would like to drive around the country, all major car rental companies are present in Mexico. However, you must know that they operate under a franchise scheme, and therefore their policies and the overall way to do business are very different than those in other countries. Most of the times they will publish prices that may look very attractive, but may not include insurance, taxes and other mandatory fees, the best thing to do is call in advance to find out the final price to pay. There are some local companies which do include all bells and whistles in their rates, [https://www.veico.com/ Veico Car Rental]. [https://www.citycarrental.com/ City Car Rental] offers good prices and have rental offices as most major cities in Mexico. Throughout the mainland of North America including the Mexico, traffic moves on the right with most cars being left-hand-drive (as in Belize, Guatemala, and the United States of America). The only areas of North America that do not drive on the right are on some Caribbean Islands. ===By plane=== Major airlines hubs for all or several of the airlines are in [[Benito Juarez International Airport|Mexico City-Benito Juarez Airport]], Mexico City-Santa Lucia Airport (NLU), [[Guadalajara#By plane|Guadalajara]], [[Cancún International Airport]], and [[Monterrey#By plane|Monterrey]]. There are additional point to point services from several other cities. Budget airlines offer competitive fares that rival bus travel over long distances. The low-cost airlines are VivaAerobus and Volaris. The main airlines providing service to over 60 cities within Mexico are: * {{listing | type=listing | name=Aeromexico/Aeromexico Connect | alt= | url=http://www.aeromexico.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 5133-4000 (MX) | tollfree=+1-800-237-6639 (US) | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=It is the 'national' and 'legacy' carrier with hubs in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. It is also a member of the SkyTeam Alliance. }} * {{listing | name=Magnicharters | alt= | url=http://www.magnicharters.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 5678-1000, +52 55 5678-3600 (DF), +52 81 2282-9620, +52 2282-9621 (MTY) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-21 | content=Headquartered in Mexico City, their major hubs are in Monterrey and Mexico City. Primary destinations are resort areas preferred by leisure travelers, such as Cancun or Puerto Vallarta. They also offer flights from Las Vegas and Orlando in the U.S. and from Cancun to Havana, Cuba. }} * {{listing | name=Mexicana | alt= | url=https://www.mexicana.gob.mx/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-11-04 | content=In 2023, the Mexican government resurrected the formerly bankrupt carrier and will operate it as a state airline. Mexicana will initially focus on domestic routes only, serving all major cities and resort areas in Mexico. The airline operates on a hub and spoke model with all flights originating or ending at Mexico City - Aeropuerto Internacional Felipe Angeles (AIFA) ({{IATA|NLU}}) in the northern suburb of Santa Lucia. Additional routes will be added via a second hub at Tulum International Airport ({{IATA|TQO}}) in early 2024. }} * {{listing | name=VivaAerobus | alt= | url=http://www.vivaaerobus.com/mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Low-cost, Ryanair-like airline with hubs in Cancun, Monterrey, Mexico City and Guadalajara and new focus cities in Merida and Puebla, and service from the USA. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Volaris | alt= | url=https://www.volaris.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 1102-8000 | tollfree=+1 855 865-2747 (US) | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Hubs are in Mexico City, Tijuana and Guadalajara with focus cities in Cancun, Monterrey and Leon. They also have an additional hub in San Jose Costa Rica and a focus city in Los Angeles, outside of Mexico. They have services to cities in the U.S., Costa Rica, El Salvador and Nicaragua. }} There are also small airlines operating within certain areas such as: * {{listing | name=Aerus | alt= | url=https://flyaerus.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 811 495 5340 (only WhatsApp) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-07-12 | content=Regional airline based in [[Monterrey]] serving Northern Mexico and the Gulf Coast, including destinations in Tamaulipas, Veracruz, and Tabasco. }} * {{listing | name=Calafia Airlines | alt= | url=https://www.calafiaairlines.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 619 489-1439 (US) | tollfree=01 800 5603949 (MX) | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Operates scheduled flights between cities in the Baja California Peninsula and from the Baja California Peninsula to Chihuahua, Jalisco, Sonora and Sinaloa states. It connects the Baja California Peninsula to Leon (Guanajuato), Monterrey (Nuevo Leon), Mexico City and San Luis Potosi, all in the smaller aircraft. It connects Palenque and Tuxtla Gutierrez (Chiapas) to Mexico City and Cancun. It also offers charters and air taxi services. }} * {{listing | name=Aerotucán | alt= | url=https://www.aerotucan.com.mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 952 502-0840 | tollfree=01800 640-4148 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Flies between Oaxaca City, Ciudad Ixtepec, Huatulco and Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca state in small planes. }} * {{listing | name=Señor Air | alt= | url=https://www.senorair.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-07-24 | content=Small regional carrier based out of [[Los Cabos]] ({{IATA|SJD}}) operating a limited route map with service to mainland destinations in Chihuahua, Sinaloa and Jalisco using Embraer aircraft. }} * {{listing | name=TAR | alt= | url=http://www.tarmexico.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 2629-5272 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Hub in Queretaro with focus cities in Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Puerto Vallarta to several destinations nationwide. Operates Embraer regional jets. }} On the Viva Aerobus fares "Zero" and "Light", you cannot check in earlier than 4 hours and 8 hours before departure respectively. As of Nov 2021, the website and app won't tell you that if you try it earlier. Instead giving you a random error message or telling you to check-in at the airport for additional cost, which is not needed. ===By bus=== ==== Intercity buses==== See main article, [[Bus travel in Mexico]] Long-distance buses are an ideal way to experience Mexico. The executive and first-class buses are very modern, clean, and comfortable with bigger seats and more legroom than the first-class cabin of a modern aircraft. Costs are generally low, with first-class tickets costing only slightly more than a much slower second-class bus. All major cities and tourist destinations have good bus service. ==== City buses ==== Most larger cities have a mix of public bus services and privately run bus services. For example, in [[Mexico City]] there are several bus services that are part of the public Metro transportation including large, modern articulated buses that run in dedicated lanes on major arteries, as well as electric buses and traditional buses through most neighborhood. In the city of [[Monterrey]], there are Metrobuses that operate as part of the city's public transit network, often connecting to the Metrorrey subway/light rail stations. There are also more than a dozen private bus companies, usually providing services to a well-defined section of the city. Using the city buses can be complicated, involving various transfers and sometimes multiple providers. Information about these may be in individual destination articles here, but is more reliable in the [https://moovitapp.com/ Moovit] app (available for iPhone or Android). ==== Colectivos, combis, peseros ==== Many cities in Mexico have privately operated van or small bus services that run along popular routes. These go by various names including ''peseros'', ''colectivos'', ''urbans'', or ''combis''. Whatever you call them, they are sometimes vans and sometimes small buses with varying color codes depending on the city you are in and often identifying the operator or route. Usually the route taken is written on cardboard attached to the windshield or with wet and then dried soap or chalk on the windshield listing the local colonias (neighborhoods) and points of interest (Allende, WalMart, Soriana, malls, hospitals, universities, etc.) the routes are not numbered and the schedules are often informal. When a combi gets full, it leaves and won't pick up passengers along the way until somebody gets off. In some cities the pesero stops at marked bus stops while in others bus stops are uncommon and you are expect to signal the bus to pick you up and drop you off wherever you want. If you don't find a stop button in a pesero; just shout the word "baja!" for it to stop. Fares are cheap and vary from M$5-15 (Feb 2022) approximately. ===By carpooling === You can check, if there are rides offered for your route on Blablacar. Especially between bigger cities the chances are good. In order to see the prices in pesos, you need to (re)install the app and choose Mexican pesos. Prices are about 30-50% less than taking an intercity bus. ===By train=== [[File:Tren maya en Mérida Teya 01.jpg|thumb|Tren Maya]] Intercity trains are slowly making a comeback in Mexico, after a 25-year hiatus. The vast majority of cities are not served but as of 2025 a few lines have opened and there are plans for major expansions over the coming years. * [https://www.trenmaya.gob.mx/ ''Tren Maya''] serves the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]] and the [[Riviera Maya]]. The route goes along the Caribbean coast between [[Cancun]] and [[Chetumal]] at the Belize border. It provides access to [[Merida]] and has stations at archaeological sites like [[Chichen Itza]], [[Edzna]], [[Tulum]], and [[Palenque]]. * [https://www.pasajerosinteroceanico.com.mx/ ''Tren Interoceánico''] runs across the Tehuantepec isthmus between [[Salina Cruz]] on the Pacific Ocean and [[Coatzalcocos]] on the Gulf of Mexico coast. Tren Interoceanico has a line that connects Coatzalcocos to [[Palenque]] where passengers can transfer to the Tren Maya. * ''El Insurgente'' is an intercity train in [[Mexico State]] connecting to the [[Mexico City]] Metro at the Observatorio station. ====Tourist trains==== [[File:Copper Canyon Railway.jpg|thumb|''El Chepe'' through the Copper Canyon]] The most famous tourist train in Mexico is the [https://chepe.mx/en/ ''Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico''] (Chihuahua-Pacific Railway or ''El Chepe'') between [[Los Mochis]], [[Sinaloa]], and the town of [[Creel]], [[Chihuahua]], through the gorgeous [[Copper Canyon]]. In the state of Jalisco there are a couple of lines which travel from the state capital city of [[Guadalajara]] to the nearby tequila distilleries in the small town of Amatitlan on the [https://www.tequilaexpress.mx/ ''Tequila Express''] and to the Jose Cuervo distilleries in the town of [[Tequila]] on the [http://www.josecuervoexpress.com ''Jose Cuervo Express'']. There is also a tourist train that runs from [[Tijuana]] to [[Tecate]] (and back again) on Saturdays. ===By taxi=== Ride-hailing is available in Mexico and the following are the most anticipated providers. There may be destinations where the service is not available due to differences with local cab groups. * {{listing | type=go | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/mexico-city | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content=Works in Mexico City and other cities. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Cabify | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content= }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Didi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content= }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content=Includes three cities. }} Many drivers in Mexico do not like payment by credit card. If you're having trouble hailing a ride, try switching to cash payment. ===By thumb=== One upside of the high petroleum prices is that hitching is beginning to be more common in Mexico again, particularly the rural areas. In areas near big cities, hitching should be more difficult, and is not really advisable for security reasons. However, in village areas, this will be really possible and most likely a nice experience. Since villagers have always had a hard time affording gas, and nowadays many are turning to picking up paying hitchhikers as a way to afford the next trip into town. Baja California, the Sierra Tarahumara and Oaxaca and Chiapas all have good possibilities for the hitchhiker. [[Hitchhiking]] possibilities vary according to region. Mexican culture is often accepting of hitchhiking and it's a common practice among Mexican youngsters going to the beach in Easter vacations, though in some cases a money contribution is expected for gas because of its relatively high prices. You should make it clear that you have no money to offer before accepting the ride, if this is the case. If you're willing to pay, trucks will often provide lifts for about half the price of a bus ticket. Of course you may be able to negotiate a better deal. Hitchhiking is considered fairly safe and easy in the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]. ==Talk== {{see also|Spanish phrasebook}} '''Spanish''' is the ''de facto'' national language. Spanish is used by virtually the whole population and all public communications (signs, documents, media, etc.) are conducted in the language. Mexico has one of the richest diversity of more than 60 '''indigenous languages''' spoken with official recognition. These languages are spoken within the communities that are largely segregated from mainstream mestizo society. About 5% of Mexicans speak an indigenous language. Most of these communities are fluent in Spanish as well. Many Mexicans do not speak English, even though it is understood by many in Mexico City, tour guides, and workers in popular tourist attractions. Because of this, a good knowledge of Spanish is essential for the independent traveller. The most popular foreign languages to learn within Mexico after English are French, Italian, German and Japanese. German, French, and Russian may be known by some in the tourism industry, but among clerks, policemen, and drivers (most particularly the last) there is basically no such thing as knowledge of foreign languages. Bilingual signs in Spanish and English might be available in popular tourist destinations. ==See== [[File:Tochimilco portada.jpg|thumbnail|Popocatépetl's 16th century monasteries are World Heritage Sites]] Many travelers come to see Mexico's natural wonders, includingː * '''Copper Canyon''' - ride the train through an enormous canyon system in the northwestern mountains * '''Mesoamerican Barrier Reef''' - scuba dive the coral reefs in the warm waters of the Mexican Caribbean * '''Sea of Cortez''' - see migrating whales, sea lions, dolphins and more * '''Volcano Belt''' - climb Mexico's highest mountain peaks and see active, dormant, and inactive volcanoes There are 35 [[UNESCO World Heritage Site|UNESCO world heritage sites]] in Mexico as of 2018, more than anywhere else in the Americas. Most of them are in the cultural category and relate to either the pre-Columbian civilizations in the area or to early colonial cities established by the Spanish ''conquistadores'' and missionaries. Much of Mexico is mountainous with some mountains rising higher than 5,000 m over the sea level. Mexico is on the border of two bioregions; both [[North American wildlife]] and [[Central and South American wildlife]] can be seen in the country. A number of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are in Mexico as well as a number of RAMSAR wetlands. The Mexican Tourism Ministry (SECTUR) has a program called ''[[Pueblos Magicos]]'' to identify and develop tourist programs in smaller, lesser known destinations. Towns designated as Pueblos Magicos usually are rich in colonial heritage, maintain cultural traditions, or offer spectacular natural wonders. These towns are the kinds of places a couple would go for a romantic weekend because they often feature interesting historical sites in a quaint setting with local bed and breakfast inns, regional cuisine in the local restaurants, and good accessibility from major cities. == Do == [[Image:Mayan ruins at Tulum Mexico.jpg|thumb|300px|Mayan Ruins of Tulum]] The warm Mexican climate, spectacular nature and long coastline make the country great for [[outdoor life]], especially [[water sport]]. * '''Surfing''' – [[Baja California]], [[Vallarta]], [[Oaxaca (state)|Oaxaca]] * '''Sea kayaking''' – Baja California * '''Snorkeling''' – Baja California, Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, etc. * '''[[Diving in Mexico|Scuba diving]]''' – Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas etc., and cave diving in the cenotes of the Yucatán Peninsula. * '''Whale watching''' – Baja California, [[Guerrero Negro]], [[Mazunte]], [[Zipolite]] * '''White water rafting''' – Veracruz * '''Visit a volcano''' – Mexico, Toluca etc. * '''Take a ride on the Copper Canyon Railway''' * '''Enjoy the beautiful coast line and beaches of Oaxaca''' – [[Huatulco]], [[Mazunte]], [[Zipolite]], Puerto Angel, [[Puerto Escondido]], etc. * Go for a '''horseback ride''' in the Copper Canyon * '''Visit the archaeological sites''' like Chichen Itza, Tulum, Coba, Monte Alban, Calakmul, Palenque, etc. * '''Volunteering''' – Chiapas, Xalapa, Veracruz or many other destinations * '''Visit ecological parks''' – [[Mayan Riviera]], [[Chiapas]], [[Tamaulipas]] * '''Trekking and viewing cave paintings''' [[Baja California]] ===Sports=== '''[[Association football|Football]]''' (soccer) is Mexico's national sport, and its top men's league, the '''[http://www.ligamx.net/ Liga MX]''', is one of the best funded outside Europe. The big four teams in the Liga MX are '''[http://www.clubamerica.com.mx América]''', '''[http://www.chivasdecorazon.com.mx Chivas]''', '''[http://www.cruzazulfc.com Cruz Azul]''' and '''[http://www.pumas.mx/ Pumas]'''. The rivalry between [[Guadalajara]]'s Chivas and [[Mexico City]]'s América, known as ''El Súper Clásico'', ''El Clásico de Clásicos'' or just ''El Clásico'', is the biggest in Mexico, and fixtures between the two sides are guaranteed to draw partisan sell-out crowds. In [[Northern Mexico]], the biggest game of the year is the ''Clasico Regio'', pitting Monterrey's two top teams against each other. The Mexican national team is also a regional powerhouse, and matches against its northern neighbor, the [[United States of America|United States]], are particularly charged affairs. '''Baseball''' is the second biggest team sport in the country with two leagues, [https://www.milb.com/mexican/ Liga Mexicana de Beisbol] (LMB) and the [https://www.lmp.mx/ Liga Pacifica] (LMP)(sponsored by ARCO). The best players make it to Major League Baseball teams in the U.S., but that is not a universal goal in Mexico, where many players enjoy long careers (particularly in the Mexican League teams) and are relatively well paid. The Liga Mexicana began in 1925. It is organized as two divisions, North and South, with 18 teams playing a 114-game season, from April to September. Teams are located in many popular tourist destinations including [[Cancun]] (Tigres), [[Mexico City]] (Diablos Rojos), [[Guadalajara]] (Mariachis), [[Monterrey]] (Sultanes), and [[Tijuana]] (Toros). The LMP is a winter league with 10 teams, mostly in the states of [[Sinaloa]] and [[Sonora]], but with teams in [[Mexicali]] (Aguilas), [[Guadalajara]] (Charros), and [[Monterrey]] (Sultanes). Monterrey and Guadalajara are the two cities with teams in both leagues, so you can catch a game there at almost any time of the year. '''[[American Football]]''' has a long tradition in Mexico but has often been relegated to third fiddle by the more popular soccer and baseball. Estadio Azteca has seen a handful of NFL games (including, at a time, the best attended NFL game in league history up to that point) and besides a long-standing college league, there is now also a professional league with teams focused in and around Mexico City. '''[[Bullfighting]]''', also referred to as ''la fiesta brava'', is a popular (but declining) spectator sport with a long Hispanic tradition stretching back as far as 2,000 years. Tradition crashes headlong into the modern world when it comes to bullfighting, where animal rights activists fight a constantly escalating war against bullfighting. Proponents of bullfighting point not only to the colorful traditions, but to the fact that the "industry" supporting bullfighting creates 18,000 jobs nationwide. Activists say it's a barbaric, bloodthirsty tradition that has no place in a civilized world. The debate is ongoing and while Mexico City's first bullfight was held in 1526, many people would be happy if no 500th anniversary could take place. Mexico City's Plaza de Toros (Plaza Monumental) is the world's largest bullring and is regarded as being part of the "triple crown" of bullfighting, alongside Madrid and Sevilla. While animal rights activists succeeded in having bullfights blocked in Mexico City in 2022, the case was overturned on appeal and bullfights have resumed in the capital. Bullfights usually occur between November and March, but the season varies by location. In [[Tijuana]], bullfights occur between April and October. In some smaller towns, bullfights are held only in conjunction with large festivals. In any case, travellers who might want a genuine bullfight experience should make plans to visit Mexico soon because the tradition of bullfighting may not last forever. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mexican pesos | currencyCode=M$ | date=January 2025 | USD=19 | EUR=22 | GBP=25 | CAD=14 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mxn-mexican-peso XE.com] }} The currency of Mexico is the ''peso'', denoted in Mexico as "'''$'''" (ISO code '''MXN''') and in Wikivoyage as "'''M$'''". It is divided into 100 ''centavos''. Prices in US dollars (in tourist areas) are labeled "US$" or sport an ''S'' with a double stroke. Coins are issued in denominations of 5, 10 (steel), 20, and 50 centavos (brass; new 50-centavo coins issued from 2011 onwards are steel and smaller in size) and 1, 2, 5 (steel ring, brass center), 10, 20, 50, and 100 pesos (brass ring, steel or silver center), but it's extremely rare to find coins valued at more than 10 pesos. Banknotes are produced in denominations of 20 (blue or green and pink), 50 (pink-red or purple), 100 (red), 200 (green), 500 (brown or blue), and 1,000 (purple and pink for the latest issue, purple for older issues) pesos. The current issue of 20-, 50- and 100-peso bills are made from polymer plastic, and there are several different series of all banknotes. Ten-peso notes exist, but are very rare and no longer issued and accepted, but remain legal tender. ====Acceptance of other currency==== "Old" pesos (issued before 1993) are no longer accepted, but are usually collected by numismatists. Merchants may accept US dollars at a lower exchange rate. US dollars are sometimes accepted in border towns and in some tourist areas. Even when US dollars are accepted, pesos are preferred. Other currencies such as the euro, pound sterling, and Swiss franc are generally not accepted by merchants, and even banks headquartered in Europe may refuse to accept euros for exchange. On the other hand, most banks and exchange offices (''casas de cambio'') will accept them. If you arrive from the south and still carry Central American currency, try to exchange them as soon as possible, as outside of the immediate border area not even banks will accept them. As all Central American countries either have the US dollar as their national currency (El Salvador and Panama) or have it circulating to varying degrees as a ''de facto'' second currency and virtually all banks in Central America and most banks in Mexico accept US dollars (usually at better rates than any other currency) your best bet is to "triangulate" your money from local currency to dollars and from dollars to pesos rather than exchanging them directly, which can be difficult and expensive. Should you have forgotten to exchange your money and the banks are closed, street money changers (called ''coyotes'' or ''cambistas'') don't have fixed opening hours and often have better rates. Be careful however, as they do from time to time rip off foreign visitors with bogus calculators, wrong rates and counterfeit or outdated (and thus worthless) bills. ====Money exchange==== If you have brought cash in US dollars or euros, the best places to change your money are at an arrival airport (such as Mexico City and Cancun), where many money exchanges are located already in the arrival hall (where you can also compare some exchange rates and choose the most convenient) and, normally, at airports, the exchange rate is usually fair. Be sure to pass through Customs before looking for foreign exchange as inside the customs zone in Cancun the rate is far lower than the greediest street vendors ask. If you would like to wait until later to obtain Mexican currency, try not to change at your hotel, as the rates there tend to be extremely disadvantageous for tourists. However, some hotels provide exchanges as a courtesy, in this case it is best to ask just to make sure. Often, you can find money exchanges at strategic places in most tourist destinations and near the hotel (zones). The exchanges rates should not differ drastically from the ones at airport. If you are unfamiliar with Mexican money (bills, coins), try to stick to official foreign exchange booths. In several internationally popular beach destinations like Cancun and Los Cabos, local merchants are accustomed to US dollars and will often accept them as payment (they even have dual-currency cash registers and drawers). However, do bear in mind that the convenience of such “private” money exchange usually comes with a slightly unfavorable exchange rate. ===Shopping=== If there is no price tag, ''ask for the price first''. The simple question is "¿Cuánto cuesta?" and is easily understood by Mexicans. Some shops show the price in '''pesitos'''. That's the diminutive of peso and means the same. [[File:2013-12-27 Oaxaca Markt 03 anagoria.JPG|thumbnail|Spices for sale at a market in Oaxaca]] * Weights are measured in kilograms. Length is measured in centimeters and meters. * For clothes and shoe sizes, the "Continental" measurements are used. Merchants can be picky about the state of your paper money and may scrutinize it and reject anything with rips. Try to keep it in as pristine condition as possible. Reputedly, this is more the case the farther south you go. In any case, you can easily enter a bank with some damaged bill to get it exchanged into another one. Merchants are often reluctant to make change in smaller towns. Try to avoid paying with overly large denominations; the best customer has exact change. In rural areas, your 'change' may consist of chiclets or other small commodities. Merchants, specially those in small markets ("tianguis") and street vendors are no strangers to haggling. Try asking "¿Es lo menos?" ("Is this the smallest price?"), The more rural and less touristy the area you're likely to have more success. *'''[[Mexican Artesanias|Artesanias]]''' A visit to anywhere in Mexico will give one the opportunity to buy art made in the "old world" manner that reflects the diverse ethnicity of Mexico. Included in these articles would be textiles, wood carvings, paintings and carved masks that are used on sacred dances and burials. In many parts of Mexico, artists welcome visitors to their workshops to see how things are made and often to buy "direct from the source". *'''Timeshares''' When visiting the '''resort''' cities of Mexico (e.g. Cancun, Puerto Vallarta or similar), it is more than common to be approached on the streets, in bars, in restaurants and anywhere with offers of gifts, free rental cars, free nights, free dinners, free anything that may appeal to you, just for visiting and listening to a presentation to buy a timeshare. Unless you are severely desperate for something to do, you may want to ignore those making the offer and stay away from those ''free'' offers. While the properties are very nice, great locations and plenty of amenities, this is not the place to ''learn'' about timeshares. Do your homework before even thinking about buying a timeshare, see what the values are in the ''resale'' market and understand the ''rights'' you are buying and the future costs. Collecting on the ''free'' offers may be difficult, if not impossible. * '''Automobiles''' It's certainly worth going over and importing a car back from there, although importing it to the EU/US standards is the hard part. Recommended are the Ford Fusion (like the British Ford Mondeo, but more upmarket) and the Chrysler 200 (the 2.4 model is worth it). Volkswagens can be substantially better-equipped than European or North American counterparts. The Passat sold in Mexico is not the same car as in Europe, and is substantially bigger, however, engines are the same as in Europe, except for the 2.5 petrol. * '''Cuban cigars''' are a fun novelty for tourists from the US and are widely available. It's still illegal to bring them back to the US, although the worst that's likely to happen is they'll be confiscated by customs. ====Credit cards and debit cards==== Credit cards and debit cards (with Maestro or MasterCard/Visa affiliation) are widely accepted in Mexico. You can use them at ATMs as well as in most department stores, bigger restaurants, gas stations, but be sure that outside cities you always carry sufficient cash in pesos, and generally verify the possibility to pay with card before consumption. Smaller (often family run) businesses often accept only cash. Most of the time, an extra 5% when paying with card is added. Also, you cannot get lower prices if you haggle unless you pay cash. While many Pemex stations accept credit cards, especially in locations that have heavy tourist traffic, some do not; travellers who intend to pay by credit card should always ask the attendant if the card is accepted before pumping begins. ====ATMs==== Bank of America customers can avoid ATM fees by using Santander Serfin ATMs. Other banks may have similar policies, check with your respective institution. For example, Banamex bank is owned by Citibank/Citigroup, and Bancomer is owned by BBVA, which is related to Chase in the United States. Ask to your bank if they have relation with Mexican banks, and the advantages that such ally can provide. Otherwise, do not be surprised to find yourself with a fee for each withdrawal. ATMs ask you if you want to accept the shown fee. In some ATMs you need to put your credit card inside crosswise. 5 Lowest ATM fees used with UK issued Mastercard, January 2024: Inbursa M$22.04, BanBajio M$23.20, Banca Mifel M$26.68, BanCoppel M$29, CitiBanamex M$30.74. As of January 2024, other fees are: Banco Azteca M$34.80, Santander M$34.80, HSBC M$35.84, Banorte M$58.00, Multiva M$67.28, Banregio M$81.20, BBVA M$174 pesos There is no difference between Mastercard and Visa. ATMs in smaller towns can run out of currency; sometimes this is a regular occurrence. Check with the bank (or locals) about the best time to use the ATM and never wait until the last minute to get cash. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping]] in Mexico is similar to the United States. It is usually from 10 to 15%. Meals have a 10% to 15% tip (this includes fast food deliveries). This tip is usually left by most people in restaurants, although it is not so common in street restaurants or stands, where the tenders usually have a can or box where people deposit coins. It is generally common to leave a tip on the table after paying and therefore having small change is very useful. Mexican bars and night clubs often charge directly to the bill 15% of the total amount (taxes included). That is illegal in most cases because of the imposition of the tip and because they calculate the 15% with taxes included. In large groups, or in nightclubs the barmen expect the customers to deposit their tip in a cup left on the table before serving the drinks so the service they give is in function with the tip they received. It is also customary to give a tip to the person who sometimes guard the car as if they were valet parking; in Mexico these people are often called ''viene viene'' (literally: "comes, comes") or ''franeleros'' and usually people give them M$3-20 depending on the zone, although they sometimes ask for bigger sums of money when the car is left close to a night life area. In medium and large retail stores such as Wal-Mart there are uniformed helpers, usually children or the elderly, who bag the products just after the clerk has scanned them. This role is called ''cerillo'' (Spanish for "match"). It is common for these helpers to not have a basic salary, so all the money earned is from the tips people give them. Most customers give M$2-5 depending on the number of products. Cerillos also put the bags in the cart and if the load is large they can even help bringing it to the car and unloading the bags; in these cases, they normally receive more than M$15. Tipping is not expected in cabs or buses, except when it is a tour. In some populated Mexican restaurants wandering musicians enter, play, and expect the customers to pay something, although this is voluntary. In filling stations, the workers usually get M$2-5 for every gasoline load. In stadiums people give a small tip to the person who shows the place where they should sit. Tips are also given to bellboys, barbers and people that work in similar services. ==Eat== [[File:TacoPlacesPetatlan.JPG|thumbnail|Taco stalls]] [[File:Gordita.jpg|thumbnail|Gordita]] {{see also|Mexican cuisine}} [[Mexican cuisine]] can be described better as a collection of various regional cuisines rather than a standard list of dishes for the whole country. Because of climate, geography and ethnic differences, we can classify Mexican cuisine broadly in 4 great categories according to the region: * '''Northern''' – Mostly meat dishes done mainly from beef and goat. This includes Cabrito, Carne Asada (Barbecue) and Arrachera. Is influenced by international cuisine (mostly from the United States and Europe), but it retains the essential Mexican flavor. * '''Central''' – This region is influenced by the rest of the country, but has its own well-developed local flavor in dishes such as Pozole, Menudo and Carnitas. Dishes are mostly corn-based and with different spices. * '''Southeastern''' – Is known for its spicy vegetable and chicken-based dishes. Caribbean cuisine have influences here because of the location. * '''Coast''' – Has a strong emphasis on seafood and fish, but corn-based recipes can be easily found as well. Ask for the "platillo tipico" of the town, which is the local speciality that may not be found elsewhere, a variation, or the birthplace of a recipe. Also consider that most of the recipes change from place to place: for example, tamales in the south are made with the banana plant leaves, and in the Huasteca region tamales are very big (they are called "Zacahuil"); one is OK for a complete family. If you are travelling here from [[Spain]] or elsewhere in [[Latin America]], keep in mind that many Mexican dishes can have the same name, but be very different from their counterparts elsewhere. For instance, a Mexican ''tamal'' is very different from a Colombian ''tamal'', and a Mexican ''tortilla'' bears virtually no similarity at all to a Spanish ''tortilla''. Traditional Mexican food can often be very spicy; if you are not used to peppers, always ask if your food includes it. "(''¿Esto tiene chile? Es picante?'')." There are many [[street food|food carts]] on the streets of Mexican cities and towns. Travelers are advised to eat from these carts with caution, as hygienic preparation practices are not always reliable. You can measure the quality of food by popularity; do not eat in lonely places, even if they are restaurants or hotels. Consider that Mexicans eat their main meal in the middle of the afternoon (around 3 o'clock), with breakfast or "almuerzo", a mid-morning affair after a very light something, like a small plate of fruit or a roll with coffee, in the very early morning. Although, many Mexicans have large breakfasts in the morning. Later, at night the meal varies from very light, such as sweet rolls or breads, coffee or hot chocolate, to heavy dinner, such as pozole, tacos, and tamales. Schedule your meals accordingly and you will get a better perspective on the gauge of how busy (popular) a restaurant is. In doing so, you may (or may not) find some of the most unique and genuinely Mexican dishes you've ever had. From these vendors, you may find tacos, burgers, bread, roasted field corn or elote served with mayonnaise, or a light cream, and sprinkled with fresh white cheese, roasted sweet potato called camote, and almost any kind of food and service you would imagine. * '''Chicharrón''' – Deep fried pork skin. Quite crunchy and if well-prepared slightly oily. Heavenly spread with guacamole. Or sometimes cooked in a mild chili sauce and served with eggs. * '''Enchiladas''' – Chicken or meat stuffed soft tortillas covered with green, red or mole sauce. Some may have melted cheese inside and/or on top. * '''Tacos''' – Soft corn tortillas filled with meat (asada (steak strips), pollo (shredded chicken), carnitas (fried shredded pork), lengua (cow tongue), cabeza (meat from cow skull), sesos (cow brains), tripa (cow gut), al pastor (chili, pork, beef cut from a spit) or chorizo (pork sausage)). In the north sometimes flour tortillas are used. Do not expect the crispy taco shell anywhere. * '''Tamales''' (singular ''tamal'') – corn dough shell with meat or vegetable fillings. Tamales Dulces contain fruit and/or nuts. * '''Tortas''' – Fancy Mexican sandwich. Bread roll that is grilled lightly, meat fillings are same as tacos: lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, beans, onion, mayonnaise and avocado. One is beginning to find tortas with the American styled cold cuts available, as well, in urban areas. * '''Huitlacoche''' – (wit-la-ko-che) A fungus, much like mushrooms, found in corn. This dish is usually an additive to others. Foreigners might find it hard to stomach but Mexicans swear by it. Although most Mexicans love huitlacoche, most do not prepare it in their own home very frequently. It can be found in most markets or stores. * '''Quesadillas''' – Cheese or other ingredients grilled in between corn tortillas, heavy on cheese and lighter on other items such as chicken, pork, beans, squash flower blossoms and such. * '''Mole''' – Mild to medium chili based sauce made with cocoa and a hint of peanut over meat, usually served with shredded chicken or turkey. ('Pollo en mole' and this is known as Puebla or poblano style). There are many regional moles and some are green, yellow, black and can vary greatly in flavor depending on the artistic talent or preferences involved. * '''Pozole''' – Chicken or pork broth with hominy corn, spiced when served with oregano, lettuce, lemon juice, radish, chopped onion, dried ground chile and other ingredients such as chicken, pork, or even seafood, usually served with a side dish of tostadas, fried potato and fresh cheese tacos. Very fortifying. * '''Gorditas''' – corn patty stuffed with chicharron, chicken, cheese, etc. topped with cream, cheese and hot sauce. * '''Grillo''' – Grasshopper, usually cooked and placed inside another dish such as a quesadilla. It is frequently found in markets in the state of Morelos and other central Mexico states. This is not common in Mexico City. * '''Guacamole''' – crushed avocado sauce with green serrano chile, chopped red tomato and onion, lime juice, salt, and served with somewhat thick (1/8 inch) fried tortilla slices or "totopos". * '''Tostadas''' – fried flat tortilla topped with fried beans, lettuce, cream, fresh cheese, sliced red tomato and onion, hot sauce, and chicken or other main ingredient. Think a corn chip dippers, on low dose steroids, for salsas and as above. You do not usually get a plate of this automatically in many parts of Mexico as you would in the US, although they are starting to show up in resort areas that cater to US nationals automatically. * '''Huaraches''' – a bigger (think shoe-shaped) version of a gordita. * '''Sopes''' – corn patty topped with a wide variety of ingredients such as chicken, cheese, mashed beans, and various hot sauces. * '''Carnitas''' – deep fried pork meat served with a variety of salsa, to get them dry with less grease. * '''Chile en nogada''' – A big green Poblano chile with a beef or pork apple stuffing, covered with a white nut (usually walnut, known as ''nuez'') sauce and sprinkled with pomegranate seeds which happen to be red. The three colors represent the national flag and the dish is served nationwide around Mexican Independence Day (16 September). * '''Barbacoa''' – Sheep or goat meat cooked with maguey leaves in an oven made at a hole in the ground. Think BBQ heaven without the hickory smoke or catsup-based BBQ sauce. Served with condiments and salsas in corn tortilas and sometimes in a torta bread roll. * '''Sopa de Tortilla''' – tortilla chips soup usually of chicken broth, plain or with a touch of tomato flavor, and usually mild and not at all hot. Commonly served with diced avocado and fresh crumbled white cheese on top. * '''Chilaquiles''' – tortilla chips with a green tomatillo, or red tomato, or mild chili sauce, Usually served with chicken or eggs on top or within. Usually a mild dish. * '''Migas''' – is a typical dish in the center of the country which is a guajillo chile broth with soaked bread, which you can add the pork bones with meat or eggs. You may see a sign with '''"orden de tacos"'''. This means usually 5 pieces, if there is no other amount stated. The word ''orden'' is also used for other types of Mexican food. There is breakfast in McDonald's that you may not find in other countries. It includes:<br> • McMolletes<br> • McMuffin Huevo y Salchicha<br> • McMuffin a la Mexicana<br> • Hotcakes con Salchichas<br> • Desayuno Especial Mexicano<br> • McBurrito a la Mexicana for M$30 (Dec 2021)<br> Basic burgers you may not find in other countries during the day are for about M$30 (Dec 2021):<br> • Hamburguesa Gourmet<br> • Hamburguesa Especial con lechuga ==Drink== [[File:Venta de tequila en Tequila Jalisco México..JPG|thumbnail|Tequila store in [[Tequila]]]] Tap water is potable, but generally not recommended for drinking. Hotels usually give guests one (large) bottle of drinking water per room per night. Bottled water is also readily available in supermarkets and at tourist attractions. * Absinthe is legal in Mexico. * Tequila, distilled from Agave (a specific type of cactus) * Pulque, ferment made from Maguey * Mezcal, similar to tequila but distilled from Maguey * Raicilla, a type of mezcal made in Jalisco * Pox, whisky meets rum, distilled from grains and cane sugar, made in Chiapas * Tepache, ferment made from pineapple * Tuba, made from coconut palm tree [[File:Modelo Negra and Victoria beer bottles.jpg|thumb|A Mexican dark lager (Modelo Negra) and golden lager (Victoria)]] There are also several Mexican beers, most of which are available outside Mexico, these include Corona (popular, but not necessarily as overwhelmingly popular in Mexico as many foreigners think), Dos Equis (XX) and Modelo Especial. Lighter Mexican beers are often served with lime and salt, though many Mexicans do not drink beer in this fashion. In some places you will find beer served as a prepared drink called "Michelada" or simply "Chelada". The formula varies depending on the place, but it's usually beer mixed with lime juice and various sauces and spices on ice served in a salt rim glass. Spicy beer is available in supermarkets; try it, it will be an experience. Other variation called "Cubana" includes Clamato cocktail, soybean sauce, salt and a little bit of hot sauce. Mexico produces wine in several different areas, the most important of which is the [[Valle de Guadalupe]] in [[Baja California]], which accounts for more than 90% of Mexico's total wine production. The second largest wine region is in the Bajio state of [[Queretaro (state)|Queretaro]] centered on the town of [[Ezequiel Montes]]. Wine is also produced in the states of [[Sonora]], [[Coahuila]], and [[Guanajuato (state)|Guanajuato]]. Most Mexicans tend to prefer European or Chilean imports, but Mexican wines are becoming more popular as they continue to earn accolades in the press and in competitions. In the prestigious 2023 Concours Mundial de Bruxelles, the top point getter was Cenzontle Blanco from [[Valle de Guadalupe]], beating out thousands of wines from around the world. Non alcoholic beverages: * Chocolate * Atole * Horchata (rice based drink) * Agua de Jamaica (hibiscus iced tea, similar to karkadai in Egypt) * Licuados de fruta (fruit smoothies and milkshakes) * Champurrado (thick chocolate drink) * Refrescos (common sodas, generally sweet and made with cane sugar, not corn syrup as in the United States). [[File:Champurrado thenewplace sf.jpg|thumbnail|Champurrado]] The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18, but not strictly enforced. In many places, consumption of alcohol in public ("open container") is illegal and usually punishable by a day in jail. Be aware of waitresses and barmen, especially at night clubs. If you are not aware of your consumption and how much you already spent, they can add a few more drinks to your account. Some do this, not all. Alcoholmeters are widely used in driving roads If drinking, always have a designated driver. Driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage will result in 1 to 3 days in jail. Mexico, especially the southern state of Chiapas, produces excellent coffee. Café con leche, usually one part coffee to one part steamed milk, is very popular. Unfortunately, many places in Mexico that are not cafés serve Nescafe instant coffee, so you may have to search for the good coffee, but it's there. Mineral water is popular in many regions of Mexico. Topo Chico is the most widely available brand by a very wide margin. ==Learn== [[File:Flag of Mexico in Acapulco.jpg|thumbnail|Hornos Beach in Acapulco]] The most important Universities in Mexico include the '''UNAM''', ranked 73rd worldwide, and the best in Latin America. Its main campus is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Murals in the main campus were painted by some of the most recognized artists in Mexican history, such as Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros. '''IPN''' (Instituto Politécnico Nacional), '''ITESM''' (Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, located in Monterrey but with branch campuses in many other Mexican cities) the '''Iberoamerican University''' (Universidad Iberoamericana, part of the Jesuit University System) and '''Universidad Anahuac'''. [[File:Chichen Itza 21.JPG|thumbnail|Chichen Itza, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world]] Most of the government-funded universities on mayor cities (state capital) have short courses on history, gastronomy and cultural subjects, most of them are almost free. Other places are the "Casa de la Cultura", (house of culture) that are historical buildings used for cultural related activities (music concerts, theater, paint and other exhibits, they also have "talleres" (workshops). Most places have programs for foreigners to learn Spanish, or even study a whole degree. There are some other courses where you can learn traditional Mexican activities such as handcrafts. There are Spanish language schools throughout Mexico. The city with the most schools is Cuernavaca, with more than 50 schools. Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato also offer a number of schools to choose from. Prices vary; however, most schools are very reasonably priced. Many schools can arrange homestays with local Mexican families. ==Work== Working may require a work visa, which is difficult to get if you just want to freelance for a short time. Many important headquarters are located throughout the main cities of Mexico. Top Mexican corporations such as Televisa, Bimbo, Cemex, Telmex and Vitra are often willing to hire professionals who are native English speakers as much of their business is developed alongside North American corporations. Native English speakers can pick up work as English teachers. The upside is that English speakers with no knowledge of Spanish are appreciated, because they will force their students to practice English. The downside is that salaries are somewhat low. ==Sleep== [[File:Plazadeliberacion1.jpg|thumbnail|Plaza de liberación and the cathedral, Guadalajara]] Several hotel chains are available throughout Mexico, including Palace Resorts, Le Blanc Spa Resort, Best Western, Holiday Inn, CityExpress, Fiesta Inn, Fairmont, Hilton, Ritz, Camino Real, Marriott (Sheraton, W, Westin, Four Points) and many others. Rates have risen considerably, though most are still reasonable compared to similar U.S. or European hotels. Chain accommodations are usually clean and comfortable, good for business travelers, but not necessarily for those wanting to experience Mexico itself. There are also many all-inclusive resorts for those visiting the major beach destinations. Boutique hotels are found all over the country; price range varies but all of them are rich in Mexican traditions, elegance and charm, the perfect way to experience the cultural heritage of each state. A great source of information is Melba Levick's book ''Mexicasa,'' found in many libraries and online bookstores. Otherwise an authentic accommodation can usually be found by asking locals or gringos, especially in the smaller towns. Smaller hotels and motels along the roadside may not be safe or comfortable. If you are unsure about conditions or the safety of the room, ask to see it before paying. This will not be considered rude. Decent hotels for a low budget are usually found around the central bus station of a town. If you are going to stay at cheaper hotels in cooler areas in the winter consider bringing extra clothes, an electric blanket or a sleeping bag, as there is power, but no heat. And although it may get quite hot by afternoon outside, adobe and cement are like fridges. An electric tea kettle is also a good idea, as hot water might not be available when you want it. There is a large backpacker culture in Mexico, and there are many hostels offering dorm accommodation and private rooms. You can expect to pay M$100-300 (Nov 2021) for a night in a dorm, sometimes including breakfast. Hostels are a fantastic place to share information with fellow travelers, and you can often find people who have been to your future destinations. If you're travelling with children, use a plastic case (with wheels and a handle) as luggage, and it can be used as a bathtub for the kids if necessary. Budget hotels rarely, if ever, have bathtubs. ==Stay safe== [[File:Policia turistica ciudad mexico.jpg|thumbnail|Mounted tourist police, Mexico City]] {{cautionbox | Some governments advise that you '''should not travel''' to the following states: [[Guerrero]], [[Michoacán]], [[Colima (state)|Colima]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Tamaulipas]] and [[Zacatecas (state)|Zacatecas]]. These governments recommend against traveling to the six states mentioned above because of high levels of crime, unreliable law enforcement assistance, and violence related to drug trafficking. The Mexican government makes a considerable effort to protect visitors to major tourist destinations, and resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico generally do not see the levels of drug-related violence and crime reported in the border region and in areas along major trafficking routes. | us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html | uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mexico | canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mexico | australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/americas/mexico | lastedit=2023-12-15}} Mexico has a reputation for being a dangerous country — a reputation that's not entirely unwarranted — but the average traveller should not be too overly concerned or cautious of their surroundings. A lot of the crime occurs between those involved in the drug trade or organised crime. (See [[#Drug traffic issues|drug traffic issues]] for more information) In most cities, location is very important as security changes from place to place. Areas close to downtown (''centro'') are safer to walk at night, especially on the "Plaza", "Zócalo" or "Jardín" (main square) and areas nearby. Stay in populated areas, avoid poor neighborhoods, especially at night, and don't walk there at any time if you are alone. Vicious beatings have been reported at resorts by people who have travelled alone, so stay alert for any suspicious-looking individual. If you wish to visit one of the slums, you should only go as part of a guided tour with a reputable guide or tour company. Political violence in Chiapas and Oaxaca has abated, and is far less of a threat than drug-related crime. However, Mexican authorities do not look approvingly on foreigners who participate in demonstrations (even peaceful ones) or voice support for groups such as the Ejército Zapatista de Liberación Nacional and its leader, Subcomandante Marcos, even if their images and slogans are commonly sold on t-shirts and caps in markets. Do not wave cash or credit cards around. Use them discreetly and put them away as quickly as possible. The nationwide emergency number is '''911'''. Although Mexico has one of the largest police forces in the world, systemic corruption and low salaries often restrict the capabilities of law enforcement. Enlisting the help of the police almost always requires solid Spanish-language skills. Beggars are not usually a threat, but you will find lots in urban areas. Avoid being surrounded by them, as some can [[Pickpockets|pickpocket]] your goods. Giving away two pesos quickly can get you out of such troubles (but may also attract other beggars). Most poor and homeless Mexicans prefer to sell trinkets, gum, sing, or provide some meager service than beg outright. Larger cities, such as Guadalajara and Mexico City, are safer than most places in Mexico. However, caution is still recommended. ===Drug crimes=== [[File:Mexican States with mafia conflicts.png|thumb|States with the most conflict, marked in red (2010)]] Former president Felipe Calderon waged war on the drug cartels, and in turn, they waged war against the government (and more often, among each other). Some Mexican northern and border cities such as Tijuana, Nogales, Nuevo Laredo, Chihuahua, Culiacán, Durango, and Juárez can be dangerous if you are not familiar with them, especially at night. Most crime in the northern cities is related to the drug trade and police corruption. However, since law enforcement figures are often overwhelmed battling drug-related activities, many northern border towns that were somewhat dangerous to begin with are now a hotbed for criminals to act with impunity. Ciudad Juárez, in particular, bears the brunt of this violence, and with nearly a fourth of Mexico's overall murders, travel there requires special attention. Away from the northern states, cartel related violence is centered in specific areas, including the Pacific Coast states of Michoacán and Guerrero. However, exercise caution anywhere, especially at night or in high crime areas. Tourists and other travellers are of no interest to the drug cartels. Many popular tourist destinations like Oaxaca, Guanajuato, Los Cabos, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Cancún, Mérida, and Guadalajara are largely unaffected by this, simply because there are no borders there. Ciudad Juárez is a primary battleground in the drug war, and while foreign travellers are not often targeted, the presence of two warring cartels, many small opportunistic gangs, and armed police and soldiers has created a chaotic situation to say the least. As a rule of thumb, the further away you are from the border, and the closer you are to Mexico City, the safer you'll be. Many people go to Mexico City to seek refuge from drug-related violence as many politicians and military personnel are there. Consumption of drugs should be prohibited, although the problem of illegal medicine is serious in Mexico, this is still illegal (but consumption of drugs like cannabis or having a small amount are legal or decriminalised). Also, this can let you to be in trouble with gang. The army also sets up random checkpoints throughout all major highways in search of narcotics and weapons. Drug consumption is also opposed by a large percentage of the population. ===Advice for the beach=== ====[[Jellyfish]]==== If you see Portuguese man o' war (''Physalia physalis''), be far away from it. If a person is unluckily contacted with the jellyfish, use tweezers to remove the jellyfish's stingers, then go to hospital. ==== Stingray stings ==== Choose a place with hot water if you can, because the heat deactivates the poison. ==== [[Sunburns]] ==== Bring only reef-safe sunscreen if going to beaches because you might not find it available in some areas. ==== Riptides ==== Very dangerous, particularly during and after storms. ===Public transportation=== When in major cities &ndash; especially Mexico City &ndash; it is better to play it safe with taxis. The best options are to phone a taxi company, to request that your hotel or restaurant call a taxi for you, or to pick up a taxi from an established post (''Taxi de Sitio''). Also, taxis can be stopped in the middle of the street, which is okay for most of the country, but particularly unsafe in Mexico City. As chaotic as it might be sometimes, the [https://www.metro.cdmx.gob.mx/ Metro] is the best way to move around in Mexico City: it's cheap (M$5 for a ticket as of Feb 02, 2020), safe, has a large network covering almost anywhere you'd want to go in the city and it's extremely fast, compared to any on-street transportation, since it doesn't have to bear with the constant traffic jams. If you've never been in a crowded subway, avoid peak hours (usually from 06:00–09:00 and 17:00–20:00) and do your homework: check first which line (''línea'') and station (''estación'') you want to go to and the address of the place you're trying to reach. Your hotel can give you this information, and maps of the subway system are available on the internet and at the stations. Most stations also have maps of the vicinity. Avoid taking the subway at late hours of the night, but during the day many stations are patrolled by police officers and the subway is safer than taking the public bus. Your major concern in the subway is the pickpockets, so keep your important belongings and wallets in a safe place. A word of caution for people who are used to European or major American subway systems that operate around the clock: even in Mexico City, the last subway leaves around midnight, with service only resuming in the early morning. Taxis are priced accordingly, and you should keep your wits about you when moving around in the middle of the night. If you are travelling by bus, do not put your valuables in your big bag in the storage compartment of the bus. If the police or the military controls the luggage, they might take out what they want, especially in night buses, when passengers are most likely asleep. The use of a money belt (worn underneath the clothes and out of sight) is highly recommended. ===Driving=== * All distances on the signboards and speed limits are in metric units. * Gas is likewise sold in metric units and far cheaper than in Europe (and still a bit cheaper than in the U.S.) [[File:15-07-21-Mexico-Stadtzentrum-RalfR-N3S 9738.jpg|thumb|Downtown Mexico City]] If driving in from the [[USA]], always purchase Mexican liability insurance (legal defense coverage recommended) before crossing the border or immediately after crossing. When you are paying for your temporary import permit (for going beyond border areas), often in the same building there are several stalls selling Mexican auto insurance. Even if your American (or Canadian, etc.) insurance covers your vehicle in Mexico, it '''cannot''' (by Mexican law) cover liability (e.g., hitting something or injuring someone). You will probably spend time in a Mexican jail if you have an accident without it. And even if your own insurance does (in theory) provide liability coverage in Mexico—you'll be filing your claim from behind bars! Don't risk it, get Mexican auto insurance. Never drive above the speed limit or run stop signs/red lights, as Mexican police will use any excuse to pull over tourists and give you a ticket. In some cities, the police can not give you a ticket, but they might warn you. The fine for speeding could be as much as US$100 (M$1870)<!--shouldn't we use the exact peso amount instead of a rounded USD amount?-->, depending on the city. As of April 2011, police across the country are cracking down on drunk driving, particularly in Mexico City, the larger cities, and the beach resorts. There are random checkpoints throughout the country in which every driver has to stop and take an automated inebriation test. If you fail, you will end up in a Mexican prison. You will mostly find beggars and windshield cleaners at some traffic lights; having your windows closed at all times is especially recommendable in some areas of Mexico City. The windshield cleaners will try to clean yours: a strong and firm "no" is suggested. ===Natural disasters=== Natural disasters in Mexico include [[hurricanes]] and [[earthquakes]]. [[Mexico City]] in particular is located in a seismically active area. === Firearms === Every year a few U.S. tourists run afoul of Mexico's strict gun laws. '''Bringing guns into Mexico is illegal in most circumstances''', and this includes guns kept for personal protection on private boats. If you want to bring a firearm, see [[Recreational shooting#Mexico]]. === Hiking === Many trails are unmarked in real life, even if they are present at OpenStreetMap or a hiking app. If a local rule says to do a trail with a guide - it's much better to go with the guide, the route will be dangerous and easy to get lost. ==Stay healthy== Some parts of Mexico are known for '''[[travelers' diarrhea]]''', often called "Montezuma's Revenge" (Venganza de Moctezuma). The reason for this is not so much the spicy food but the contamination of the '''[[water]] supply''' in some of the poorer zones in Mexico. In most of the small towns that are less industrialized, only the poorest Mexicans will drink tap water. The best policy is to only drink bottled or purified water, both of which are readily available. Be sure to specify ''bottled'' water in restaurants and avoid ice (which is often not made from purified water). Just like in the US, in most major Mexican cities the water is purified at the cities' water company. In most restaurants in these poor zones, the only water served comes from large jugs of purified water. If you get sick, visit your local clinic as soon as possible. There is medicine available that will counter the bacteria. Medicine in urban areas is highly developed, public hospitals are just as good as public hospitals in US, and just as the American public hospitals, they are always full. It's recommended going to private hospitals for faster service. Before traveling to rural areas of Mexico, it might be a good idea to obtain '''anti-malarial medications''' from your health care provider. It is strongly advised that the traveler be sure that any meats they are consuming have been thoroughly cooked due to an increasing rate of '''roundworm''' infections, particularly in the Acapulco area. Along with the risk for malaria, mosquitoes have also been known to carry the '''West Nile virus'''. Be sure to bring an effective insect repellent, preferably one that contains the ingredient DEET. The rate of '''AIDS/HIV''' infection in Mexico is lower than in the US, France and most Latin American nations. However, if you plan on having sex, be sure that you use a latex condom to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading the virus. As with any western location, cases of '''hantavirus pulmonary syndrome''' have been reported throughout Mexico. This is an acute, rare (but often fatal) illness for which there is no known cure. The virus is believed to be present in animal feces, particularly feces from members of the rodent family. Therefore, do not wander into animal dens and be especially careful when entering enclosed spaces that are not well ventilated and lack sunlight. Vaccination against '''Hepatitis A & B''' and '''Typhoid fever''' is recommended. If you are bitten by an animal, assume that the animal was carrying '''rabies''' and seek medical attention immediately for treatment. In remote areas, carry a first aid kit, aspirin, and other related items that are sold without medical prescription. ==Respect== [[File:MojigangaSMA002.jpg|thumb|Festival in [[San Miguel de Allende]]]] Mexicans have a somewhat relaxed sense of time so it's vital to be patient. Arriving half an hour late is common and should not be taken in a negative light. When anyone, even a total stranger, sneezes, you always say "¡salud!" ("bless you!" or more literally, "your health!"): otherwise, it is considered rude. In rural areas, particularly in the Mexican heartland (Jalisco, Zacatecas, Aguascalientes, etc.), the even more pious "Jesús te bendiga" (May Jesus bless you) will follow a sneeze. Attitudes towards LGBT travellers can be hostile in more rural states, but [[LGBT Mexico City|Mexico City is very LGBT friendly]] as are popular beach resort areas such as [[Cancun]], [[Puerto Vallarta]], and [[Acapulco]]. By court order, all states in Mexico either allow the performance of same-sex marriages, or recognize such marriages when performed in other states. Same-sex marriage is performed in Mexico City and in the states of Aguascalientes, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Campeche, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Colima, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Morelos, Nayarit, Nuevo León, Oaxaca, Puebla, Quintana Roo, San Luis Potosí, Sinaloa, Sonora and Tlaxcala as well as in certain municipalities in Guerrero and Zacatecas. It is pending publication in Querétaro, and being prepared for legislation in Yucatán. Southern Mexico City is the best place in terms of tolerance. When entering churches, always take off any sunglasses, caps or hats. Wearing shorts is rarely a problem, but still wear a sweatshirt or sweater to your waist to avoid showing too much skin, which could be disrespectful in such places. However, away from the beaches, or northern areas, shorts are very rarely worn by Mexicans on the street and thus will attract more attention to you and make you stand out as a foreigner. === Sensitive issues === '''Show respect to Mexico's laws'''. Although corruption and bribery have long been around, a visitor behaving in a way that implies that Mexico is a lawless country is considered disrespectful. Offering a bribe to an official may get you into trouble. '''You are unlikely to cause offence by having a discussion about local politics, economics and history'''; Mexicans consider them good conversational topics and are more than happy to delight you with such discussions. This said, sensitive subjects like illegal immigration to the US, crime, or the drug war are likely to arouse strong emotions. Mexicans are well aware of their country's problems and would like to forget about them once in a while. Also, you might be surprised at how much Mexicans know about the politics of your country – especially the times in its history when they feel your country has screwed Mexico over (which applies especially for Spain, France and the U.S.). That said, Mexican history tends to be viewed as a series of shades of grey — there are those who feel the need to extol economic growth under Porfirio Díaz, just like there are those who point out anti-democratic tendencies under Benito Juarez. '''A lot of Mexicans do not have a favourable opinion of the Spanish Empire''' and the things they've done in the past. They feel that many of Mexico's problems are rooted in what the Spanish brought over. This said, there are no feelings of resentment towards Spain and Spanish people. '''Try not to assume the worst in people'''. Mexico may have a lot of social and political problems, but that does not mean that everyone is alike. '''The great majority of the population is and traditionally has been Roman Catholic''', and there is still a strong following of this faith among Mexicans from all socioeconomic backgrounds. However, there are sizeable Protestant, Evangelicial, Pentecostal communities (in part due to US missionary activity) and the country also has one of the largest Jehovah's Witnesses communities. The irreligious are a small minority and they are found mostly among college-educated urban dwellers of the middle and upper middle class. Saying anything that hints at atheism or agnosticism may simply be shrugged off, or could incite lengthy discussions or at worst, attempts at proselytizing. As a rule of thumb, try not to have religious discussions with people you're not well acquainted with. === Cultural notes === While overt racism may not be apparent, as a general rule, wealth and social status are historically tied to European ancestry and skin color. Mexican society is sharply divided by social class, with the rich, middle class, and poor often living very separate lives, and can have very distinct cultures. Social practices or tastes of one social group may not be shared by all classes. Clubs, bars, and restaurants may cater largely to one crowd or another, and a wealthier person or tourist may feel out of place or received unwanted attention in a working class cantina; a poor looking person may be blatantly refused service or get unfriendly stares at an exclusive establishment. There are many words in the country according to ethnic background: * Do not be offended to be called a "güero(a)" (blonde) and its diminutive form "güerito(a)" (blondie), as its a common way for the average Mexican citizen to refer mostly to Caucasian people, including white Mexicans. The words "gringo" and its synonym "gabacho" are used regardless of the actual nationality of the tourists and they are not meant as offensive. Actually, they are often used as terms of endearment. * If you are East Asian, you will be referred to as "Chino(a)" (Chinese) and its diminutive form "chinito(a)" regardless of whether you are Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, etc. Exceptions are in the capital, Mexicali, and in Monterrey, where a decent-sized Korean community does exist. * If you are black, "negro(a)" or "negrito(a)" may seem harsh, especially if you are from the US, but it is not a swear word. Although there are few black people in Mexico in many regions of the country (except in on the east and west coasts in the south), Mexicans, especially the younger generations, are not hateful. In fact, a revolutionary who later became the second president was a man of mixed European and African descent, Vicente Guerrero. * Historically, all Middle Easterners were referred to as "turcos" (even if they were from Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, etc.) [[File:Catedral de Guadañajara.JPG|thumb|Guadalajara cathedral]] === Other things to watch out for === If you try to use Spanish to address people, be careful about the use of "tú" (informal, friendly; the verb for calling someone "tú" is tutear) and "usted" (formal, respectful) forms. Using "tú" can be demeaning to people, since this is the form normally used for addressing children or close friends. Use "usted" unless you are sure you can use "tú"; doing so may perhaps seem a shade old-fashioned, but doing otherwise can be pretty rude and embarrassing in some situations. Always use the "usted" form to a law enforcement officer (or other person of authority), even if they may use the "tú" form to talk to you. Otherwise, you can say "tú" to children under 16, to people who genuinely are your friends and to persons who call you by your first name or explicitly have told you to do so. People address each other depending on their social status, age and friendship. To refer to a woman, always call her "señorita" (Miss) unless you are sure that she is married, then you call her "señora" (Mrs). When talking to an older man, use "señor" irrespective of his marital status. If you want to call a waiter, address him as "joven" which means "young man". You may call someone by his professional title ("ingeniero", "arquitecto", "doctor", "oficial", etc.). Actually, Mexican people will use the "tú" and "usted", "first name" or "surname" depending on their relationship, and the code is not easy to learn. While the word "güey" is equivalent to "dude" or "mate" among young people, it is still considered extremely vulgar by the older generation. This abrasive term of endearment is used only between people who have achieved a certain level of trust, so avoid using it. In Mexico, "estúpido" has a far, far worse connotation than "stupid" in English. Due to the highly matriarchal nature of Mexican culture, the combination of words "tu madre" (your mother) is cacophonous and taken offensively by residents, regardless of age or gender. To refer to somebody's mother, remember to replace it with "su señora madre" (roughly "your respected mother") in formal situations or the sweeter "tu mamá" in informal ones. Never, ever use strong language when talking to a woman. You may see displays of male chauvinism. It is falling out of favor, but it is still seen and mostly tolerated in small towns, as well as cities that receive considerable amounts of rural migrants. It can be defined as a male's strong desire for and skill of the domination and imposition of will, on a wife, sister, or any close female. It can also be identified by a strong desire to prove courage through showy bravado and status through a following of yes-men and henchmen. While it is usually not directed towards visitors, it can be in a variety of strengths. It is best to pretend not to notice it and move on. Another type of ''machismo'', which perhaps stems out of the same desires but does not carry any of the antisocial connotations, is male courteousness towards women. This is manifested in standing up when a lady enters a room, opening or holding a door, conceding preference or rights of way, giving up a seat, offering a hand when stepping down from a steep step, etc. It is generally reserved for older women, or women of great power, merit, and social stature. Rejecting these types of friendly gestures is considered arrogant or rude. ==Connect== Cell phones are the most convenient, and usually most inexpensive, way to talk. Before going to Mexico, call your cell phone provider and verify that you have international roaming enabled (and make sure you know what charges you should expect, for domestic and international voice calls and for data, since you will want to use your maps and Uber apps). You can make international calls free if you have an app like WhatsApp or Telegram and connect to Wi-fi before using it. Data rates can be high for cell phone users, but you can manage them by turning off data in your phone's settings except for when you actively want to use an app. If you're going to be in Mexico for an extended period of time, it might be cheaper to use Mexican carriers, either by buying a SIM card or a cheap throwaway phone. If you have an unlocked GSM phone, you can buy a prepaid SIM card in Mexico. The most expensive provider Telcel provides good coverage throughout the country. A SIM card for the Telcel brand amigo express is for M$29 (Nov 2021) e.g., in an Oxxo store. The first recharge must be at least M$50 (Nov 2021). The offers are amongst others:<br> • M$50: 400MB for 7 days (Nov 2021)<br> • M$100: 1,3GB for 15 days (Nov 2021)<br> You can see all rates and recharge [https://www.telcel.com/personas/telefonia/amigo/paquetes-end/paquetes-amigo-sin-limite here]. Recharging Telcel can be also done in an Oxxo. Cheaper providers unfortunately may not be worth the hassle due to slow internet and unreliable connection. Using a Mexican SIM card is often far cheaper than what hotels will charge you for outgoing calls and incoming calls may be free under certain schemes. Mexico operates on the same GSM frequency as the United States, 1900&nbsp;MHz. There's also 4G LTE, with 5G expected to be deployed in the future. Many of which are the same frequencies as in the US. There is a wireless internet connection in almost every restaurant in the big cities. If you're staying for over a week and don't have an unlocked phone, it might be a good idea to buy a cheap handset and a prepaid card. Some areas have only a few internet cafes; in others, they are plentiful. Most of the internet cafes offer calls to the US for a better rate than a payphone, usually via VoIP. You can call from public phones using ''tarjetas ladatel'' (prepaid telephone cards), bought at magazine stalls. Cards can be purchased in M$30, 50 or 100 denominations. The rate to call the US is roughly equivalent to US$0.50 per minute. Beware these are different than tarjetas ''amigo, viva,'' or ''unefon'' (these are only for cellphones). Ladatel cards are becoming increasingly difficult to find and use because public pay phones are an endangered species. While they worked great in 2002, they're seldom useful in 2022. Cell phones are the way to go today. ==Go next== ===To Belize=== There are bus services available from [[Chetumal]] to [[Belmopan]]. ===To Guatemala=== This route is not used by many and still has a touch of adventure: Over Tenosique, La Palma (near Tenosique), by boat on the river Rio San Pedro to [[El Naranjo]] in [[Guatemala]]. Stay firm when negotiating over the price. Absolutely important: Make sure you get your passport stamped before you leave El Naranjo, or you might catch one of the rare buses back and take a walk through the jungle, as the emigration office is partway up the river between the Mexican border and the village. ===To the United States=== The U.S. generally requires a passport for entry. A few express ID cards and trusted traveler cards are also acceptable. U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking entry or reentry by land or sea may use an Enhanced Driver License in place of a passport. U.S. permanent residents need their permanent resident card and may need the passport from their home country. Foreign nationals entering the United States without a permanent resident stamp, including those on the Visa Waiver Program, typically receive an I-94 Arrival-Departure Record or I-94W Visa Waiver Arrival-Departure Record upon arrival in the United States. So long as the I-94 has not expired, you can use it to re-enter the United States with your passport; however, if you hand it in upon exit, you will need to obtain a new card if your visa allows another entry or, if on the Visa Waiver Program, pay a fee of about US$6 to reenter the United States. Unless you are not going to return to the United States, '''keep your I-94 when leaving the [[United States]]''' or you will have a difficult time getting back in, and if your visa is limited to a certain number of entries, you may need to use another entry. Visa Waiver participants cannot reset the 90-day counter unless they leave North America, so ducking into Mexico will not allow you another 90 days. However, it can be reset by travelling, for example, to any Central American country or to Colombia. {{geo|21|-100|zoom=5}} {{isPartOf|North America}} {{outlinecountry}} {{related|Driving_in_Mexico}} tj23jcsgekqjgj9nbrzuozrfg3ruta2 5091307 5091306 2025-07-11T10:23:41Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091307 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Teotihuacan Wikivoyage banner.jpg|pgname=Mexico|caption=Teotihuacan}} {{other uses}} '''Mexico''' ([[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]: ''México'') is known for its [[Mexican cuisine|cuisine]], art, archaeology, history, pyramids, music, museums, haciendas, 9,600 km (6,000 mi) of shoreline, superb architecture, weather from snow-capped mountains in the Sierras to rainy jungles in the southeast and desert in the northwest, many golf courses and excellent fishing. Along with [[Chile]], [[Colombia]], and [[Peru]], this once-poor nation is one of the ''Pacific Pumas'', seeing significant economic growth and improved infrastructure during the 21st century. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Mexico regions map.png | regionmaptext=Mexico's regions | regionmapsize=401px | region1name=[[Baja California]] | region1color=#65b99f | region1items=[[Baja California (state)|Baja California]], [[Baja California Sur]] | region1description=The vast western peninsula, stretching 1,200 km from Tijuana on the US border to Cabo in the south. A land of deserts and undiscovered beaches. One of the biggest whale migrations takes place here every year from December to April. Also includes the far-off-shore [[Guadalupe Island]]. | region2name=[[Northern Mexico]] | region2color=#b9ad60 | region2items=[[Chihuahua (state)|Chihuahua]], [[Coahuila]], [[Durango (state)|Durango]], [[Nuevo León]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Sonora]], [[Tamaulipas]] | region2description=The expansive deserts and mountains of the border states; mostly ignored by tourists. Culturally and physically a world away from the tropical south. Includes the bustling industrial city of Monterrey, Mexico's 3rd largest and most affluent, and Copper Canyon, the country's only railroad passing through gorges and indigenous villages. | region3name=[[Bajío|The Bajío]] | region3color=#a463ad | region3items=[[Aguascalientes (state)|Aguascalientes]], [[Guanajuato (state)|Guanajuato]], [[Zacatecas (state)|Zacatecas]], [[San Luis Potosi (state)|San Luis Potosí]], [[Querétaro (state)|Querétaro]] | region3description=The former colonial heartland, this is one of Mexico's most historic regions filled with well-preserved colonial towns that grew rich from silver mining. Includes [[San Miguel de Allende]] and [[Guanajuato]] amongst other lesser known towns. | region4name=[[Central Mexico]] | region4color=#a95858 | region4items=[[Hidalgo]], [[Mexico City]], [[Mexico State]], [[Morelos]], [[Puebla (state)|Puebla]], [[Tlaxcala (state)|Tlaxcala]], [[Veracruz (state)|Veracruz]] | region4description=Mexico City, always the political, cultural and economic center of the country with a sophisticated urban core and a huge urban sprawl surrounding it. Also includes the awesome ruins of Teotihuacan, the historic city of Puebla and Veracruz, one of the country's most overlooked regions. | region5name=[[Pacific Coast (Mexico)|Pacific Coast]] | region5color=#73abab | region5items=[[Colima (state)|Colima]], [[Guerrero]], [[Jalisco]], [[Michoacan]], [[Nayarit]], [[Oaxaca (state)|Oaxaca]] | region5description=Tropical beaches on Mexico's southern coast; Jalisco the birthplace of mariachi and Tequila; Guadalajara, the nation's second largest city; and the Oaxacan highlands, famous for their distinct cuisine. | region6name=[[Yucatán and the South]] | region6color=#67a864 | region6items=[[Campeche (state)|Campeche]], [[Chiapas]], [[Quintana Roo]], [[Tabasco]], [[Yucatán]] | region6description=Jungle and impressive Mayan archaeological sites, along with the Caribbean and Gulf coast with well-known resorts like Tulum and Cancun. The colonial city of Merida and the jungle ruins of Palenque. Geographically isolated from the rest of the country, part of Central America (the dividing line being the Isthmus of Tehuantepec), it is culturally closer to Guatemala and Belize than the rest of Mexico, where Mayan culture is very much alive. }} ==Cities== {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#65b99f|title=[[Baja California]]|wikidata=Q58731,Q46508}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b9ad60|title=[[Northern Mexico]]|wikidata=Q655,Q53079,Q79918,Q15282,Q80252,Q46422,Q80007}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a463ad|title=[[Bajío|The Bajío]]|wikidata=Q79952,Q46475,Q80269,Q78980,Q79754}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a95858|title=[[Central Mexico]]|wikidata=Q80903,Q1489,Q82112,Q66117,Q79923,Q82681,Q60130}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#73abab|title=[[Pacific Coast (Mexico)|Pacific Coast]]|wikidata=Q61309,Q60158,Q13160,Q79861,Q79920,Q34110}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#67a864|title=[[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]|wikidata=Q80908,Q60123,Q80245,Q80914,Q60176}} {{Mapframe|22.53|-102.55|zoom=4}} [[File:Plaza de la Constitucion Ciudad de Mexico City.jpg|thumbnail|Plaza de la Constitución, also known as Zocalo, Mexico City]] <includeonly>THIS LIST SHOULD ONLY INCLUDE 9 CITIES - DO NOT ADD OR REPLACE CITIES WITHOUT FIRST USING DISCUSSION</includeonly> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mexico City]]|wikidata=Q1489}} – Capital of the republic, one of the three largest cities in the world, and a sophisticated urban hub with a 700-year history. In Mexico City, you will find everything from parks, Aztec ruins, colonial architecture, museums, to nightlife and shopping. <!-- As of November 2021 there are travel warnings for Acapulco and the whole state. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Acapulco]]|wikidata=Q81398}} - A sophisticated urban beach setting known for its top-notch nightlife, elegant dining, and nightmarish traffic. Many of the older (pre-1990s) concrete structures have suffered tropical decay.--> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cancún]]|wikidata=Q8969}} – One of the world's most popular and famous beaches, known for its clear Caribbean waters, its lively party atmosphere, and its wealth of recreational facilities. During the U.S. college Spring Break (mid-Feb to the end of March) it is noted for drinking, sunburns, and debauchery. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Guadalajara]]|wikidata=Q9022}} – A traditional city, capital of [[Jalisco]] state, and the home of mariachi music and tequila. Guadalajara is blessed with perpetual spring weather and its colonial downtown is graceful and sophisticated. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mazatlan]]|wikidata=Q40194}} – Lively Pacific coast town, Mazatlan is a shipping port, a transportation hub with ferries to Baja California, and a beach resort destination with miles of sandy shore. It is a popular U.S. college Spring Break destination due to its variety of affordable lodging options. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Monterrey]]|wikidata=Q81033}} – A large modern city that is the commercial and industrial hub of Northern Mexico. Monterrey enjoys a dry, mountainous setting and is known for its high-quality educational and transportation infrastructure. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[San Luis Potosi]]|wikidata=Q204271}} – A colonial city in central Mexico that was once an important silver producer, but today, relies on manufacturing for its economic base. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taxco]]|wikidata=Q990095}} – In central Mexico west of Cuernavaca, this steep mountain town was once a major silver producer, and now has a strong place in the trade of decorative silver, from cheap fittings to the most elegant jewelry and elaborate castings. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tijuana]]|wikidata=Q124739}} – Mexico's busiest border crossing for pedestrians and private vehicles, and a long-time bargain Mecca for southern Californians due to its proximity to [[San Diego]]. ==Other destinations== [[File:Barranca del Cobre-El Divisadero17-10-2005CIMG3344.jpg|thumbnail|The moon is rising over Copper Canyon]] <!--This section is to include only destinations that are NOT cities/towns.--> * {{marker|name=[[Copper Canyon]]|wikidata=Q674485}} (Barrancas del Cobre) – An exotic destination for travelers looking for a unique remote adventure! An awesome mountain rail ride -- one of the greatest in the world -- takes you upwards over 2,440 m (8000 feet) on the CHEPE, the Chihuahua al Pacifico Railway. Hiking, horseback riding, birding, and Tarahumara Indians. Copper Canyon, the Sierra Madre and the Chihuahuan desert of Mexico. This area is designed for adventurous individuals who will tolerate some rough travel to get to their points of interest (although the famous train ride isn't demanding at all). Copper Canyon, a magnificent remote wilderness is not likely ever to become a mass market destination. * {{marker|name='''Sea of Cortez''' (Gulf of California)|wikidata=Q132811}} – See whale birthings, swim with dolphins, and sea kayak in the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez, along the eastern coast of Baja California, near La Paz. National Geographic says the sunsets at [[San Carlos (Mexico)|San Carlos]] are some of the most spectacular in the world. * {{marker|name=[[Monarch Butterfly Reserves]]|wikidata=Q852546}} – Protected natural areas in the highlands of the state of Michoacán. Millions of butterflies come to the area between November and March of each year, although numbers have declined sharply. This is a {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Chiapas|Sumidero Canyon]]|wikidata=Q60123}} – From docks on the Rio Grijalva (the only major river within Mexico) near [[Tuxtla Gutiérrez]] in Chiapas state, tour launches take you into this steep-walled [[Mexico national parks|National Park]]. You'll likely see vast flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterfowl, as well as crocodiles. * {{marker|name=[[Mexico national parks]]}} - Mexico has 67 national parks; these include protected natural areas and national monuments and historical sites ===Archaeological sites=== [[File:Palace at Palenque.jpg|thumbnail|Palenque]] * {{marker|name=[[Chichen Itza]]|wikidata=Q5859}} – Majestic Mayan city, declared a {{unesco}} in 1988 and was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. * {{marker|name=[[Ek Balam]]|wikidata=Q988570}} – A reconstructed Mayan site, famous for its unique decorated stucco and stone-carved temples that you can climb. * {{marker|name=[[El Tajín]]|wikidata=Q753895}} – In the state of Veracruz near the town of Papantla. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Monte Alban]]|wikidata=Q464899}} – In the state of Oaxaca, a Zapotec site dating from about 500 BC. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Palenque]]|wikidata=Q181427}} – Mayan city in the state of Chiapas, Palenque famous for its elaborate paintings. Also well known for having the largest tract of rainforest in Mexico located in the same area. * {{marker|name=[[Teotihuacan]]|wikidata=Q172613}} – An enormous pre-Columbian site with several large pyramids near Mexico City. A {{unesco}}. * {{marker|name=[[Tulum]]|wikidata=Q277408}} – Mayan coastal city with spectacular Caribbean vistas. Dates from late Mayan period. * {{marker|name=[[Uxmal]]|wikidata=Q213232}} – Impressive Mayan city-state in the Puuc Region, declared a {{unesco}} in 1996. ===Small towns=== The Mexican government has designated more than 100 scenic small towns as '''[[Pueblos Mágicos]]'''. States can apply to have towns added to the carefully curated list, but they must provide sites of genuine tourist value (historical or cultural) and guarantee adequate levels of tourism infrastructure. All Pueblos Magicos are within a few hours drive of a major city that has good airline connections. Some of the Pueblos Magicos (such as [[Tequila]]) are well-known and quite popular. Most are off the beaten path and offer rich opportunities for quiet exploration. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMexico.png}} Mexico, the '''United Mexican States''' (Spanish: ''Estados Unidos Mexicanos''), is one of the most visited countries in the world. Much of the tourist industry is centered around the beach resorts as well as the ''altiplano'' in the central part of the country. Visiting the northern interior allows visitors to get off the beaten path a bit. U.S. American tourists tend to predominate on the [[Baja California]] peninsula and the more modernized beach resorts ([[Cancún]], [[Puerto Vallarta]]), while European tourists congregate around the smaller resort areas in the south like [[Playa del Carmen]] and colonial towns [[San Cristobal de las Casas]]. Canadians often favor smaller beach resorts like [[Huatulco]] or [[Ixtapa]]. ===Climate=== Mexico uses the [[Metric and Imperial equivalents|metric system]] for all measurements. All weather forecasts are in Celsius (°C). ==== Central and southern Mexico==== April is already the hottest month, especially at the coast and on the Yucatán peninsula. Towns which aren't that hot in April and during the summer are [[Mexico City]], [[Toluca]]/[[Metepec]], [[San Cristobal de las Casas]], [[Pachuca]] and [[Zacatecas]]. Hurricanes can be common in the coastal cities specially those near the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. ====Northern Mexico ==== It gets rather cold during the winter except on the coast. There is sometimes snow in certain places like the Sierra Madre of Chihuahua, Durango, Coahuila, Nuevo León and northern Tamaulipas. Northern Mexico gets very hot during the summer with sudden violent storms in the afternoon, with heavy rain and hail. The temperatures during the day can exceed 39°C (100°F). Less hot during the summer is Tijuana. ===Landscape=== [[File:Citlalepetl2.JPG|thumbnail|Pico de Orizaba or Citlaltépetl is Mexico's highest mountain]] High, rugged mountains; low coastal plains; high plateaus; temperate plains with grasslands and Mezquite trees in the northeast, desert and even more rugged mountains in the northwest, tropical rainforests in the south and southeast [[Chiapas]], [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]] semiarid in places like [[Aguascalientes]], [[San Luis Potosí]] and temperate coniferous and deciduous forests in the central part of the country [[Mexico City]], [[Toluca]]. === Holidays === Actual non-working days may shift to the Monday before the holiday, so check an up-to-date calendar. Government offices are closed nationwide on official holidays and on election days. {| class="wikitable" !Date !Name !Things to know !Official? |- |January 1 |New Year's Day (''Año Nuevo'') | |official |- |January 6 |Epiphany (''Día de los Reyes Magos'') |Celebrating arrival of the Three Wise Men to see and bring gifts to the baby Jesus |not official |- |February 2 |Candlemas (''Día de la Candelaria'') |Catholic holiday related to Christmas |not official |- |First Monday of February |Constitution Day |For the events of 1917 |official |- |February 24 |Flag Day (''Día de la Bandera'') | |not official |- |Monday on or before March 21 |Birth of Benito Juárez |Mexico's first president of indigenous origin. |official |- |March or April |Easter (''Pascua'') |Easter is widely observed nationwide, according to the yearly Catholic calendar (the first Sunday after the first full moon in Spring). | |- |April 30 |Children's Day (''Día del Niño'') | | |- |May 1 |Labor Day (''Día del Trabajo'' ) | |official |- |May 5 |Cinco de Mayo |For the Battle of Puebla against the French army in 1862. Visitors from the U.S. may be surprised to learn that it is not a major holiday in Mexico, and is not much celebrated by locals, except in the [[Puebla (state)|state of Puebla]]. |not official |- |May 10 |Mother's Day |A particularly important family-centric holiday. Some cities hold parades. Offices may be closed, restaurants will be packed full, and mariachi bands will race from one family to the next. If you are visiting someone's home, bring flowers for the mothers and grandmothers. | |- |May 15 |Teacher's Day (''Día del Maestro'') |A day to appreciate schoolteachers. Some schools close and others have special activities. |not official |- |September 1 |Presidential Address Day | | |- |September 15 |Cry of Dolores (''Grito de Dolores'') |A patriotic holiday to celebrate the first event of the Mexican War of Independence in 1810, especially in the city of [[Dolores Hidalgo]] |not official |- |September 16 |Independence Day |Celebrates the start of the 11-year-long fight for the independence from Spain that began in 1810 |official |- |October 12 |Day of the Race (''Día de la Raza'') |Related to Columbus' arrival in the Americas in 1492 |not official |- |November 2 |[[Day of the Dead]](''Día de Muertos'') |The Mexican answer to Halloween celebrates family and friends who have died. Expect sugar candy shaped like skulls and ''pan de muerto'' (a somewhat sweet type of white bread). |not official |- |Third Monday of November |Mexican Revolution Day |For the events of 1910. |official |- |December 12 |Virgin Mary of Guadalupe Day |A Catholic religious holiday, and one of the most important Mexican holidays |not official |- |December 24 |Christmas Eve (''Nochebuena'') |Normally a full non-working day. Usually a family-centered evening. May be preceded by nine days of parties in the evenings, called ''Las Posadas'' ("the inns")''.'' |not official |- |December 25 |Christmas (''Navidad'') | |official |- |December 31 |New Year's Eve |Normally a full non-working day. Expect firecrackers and lots of noise at midnight. |not official |} ===Time=== [[File:Mexico time zones map en.svg|300px|thumbnail|Mexican time zones]] The 24-hour clock system has traditionally been used for time keeping. Today, both the 24-hour clock and the 12-hour clock are commonly used (roughtly equally), though the younger generation seems more inclined to express times using the 12-hour clock. Mexico uses these four time zones: * '''Northwest Zone''' (UTC−8, corresponds to U.S. Pacific Time): [[Baja California (state)]] * '''Pacific Zone''' (UTC−7, corresponds to U.S. Mountain Time): [[Baja California Sur]], [[Chihuahua (state)]], [[Nayarit]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Sonora]] * '''Central Zone''' (UTC−6, corresponds to U.S. Central Time): The rest of the country, except [[Quintana Roo]] * '''Southeastern Zone''' (UTC−5, corresponds to U.S. Eastern Time): [[Quintana Roo]] Most of Mexico is on standard time year round. Daylight savings time is observed only in a few places. Communities on the U.S. border, except in Sonora, observe DST on the U.S. schedule. The state of Baja California also observes DST on the U.S. schedule (but Baja California Sur does not). ===History=== ====Pre-Columbian==== {{see also|Indigenous cultures of North America|Indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica}} Among the earliest complex civilizations in Mexico was the '''Olmec''' culture that flourished on the Gulf Coast in 1500 BCE. Olmec culture diffused through Mexico into formative era cultures in Chiapas, Oaxaca and the Valley of Mexico. In Central Mexico the height of the classical period saw the ascendancy of Teotihuacan, which formed a military and commercial empire. It had the largest structures of pyramids built in the pre-Columbian Americas. During the early post-classic Mexico was dominated by '''Toltec culture''', and the lowland '''Maya''' had important areas at Calakmul and Chichen Itza. At the end of the post-Classical period, the '''Aztecs''' built a tributary empire covering most of Central Mexico. The Mesoamerican cultural traditions ended in the 16th century and over the next centuries, Mexican indigenous cultures were under Spanish colonial rule. However, contrary to popular misconceptions neither the Maya nor the Aztec culture ever entirely "disappeared" and to this day many Mexicans trace at least part of their heritage to indigenous roots and language such as Nahuatl and numerous Maya tongues are still spoken by hundreds of thousands or even millions of Mexicans. Indigenous elements are visible even today in loanwords in Mexican Spanish, traditional dress, Mexican cuisine, architecture and even religious observances (nominally "catholic" to varying degrees). The eagle and the snake on a cactus depicted on the Mexican flag, for example, refers to an Aztec legend about the founding of Tenochtitlan, the city that now is Mexico City. ====Colonial and early independence==== {{main|Colonial Mexico}} Mexico remained under Spanish colonial rule until 1821 when it declared independence under the terms of "Plan of Iguala". After the short lived Mexican empire of 1821-1823 (former Spanish general and independence hero Augustin de Iturbide briefly declared himself emperor but was overthrown after two years) Mexico became a republic with a fragile balance of powers between liberals (allied mostly with urban merchants) and conservatives (allied with the church and big landholders) and Antonio López de Santa Anna became president several times while also being overthrown by his opponents several times thus having eight non-consecutive terms as president as well as five "permanent" exiles. ====Independent Mexico==== {{main|Mexican War of Independence}} The early Mexican state was anything but stable. Texas (under the leadership of US-American immigrants who wanted to make Texas a slave-holding state of the US) and Yucatán seceded at several points. Maya rebels fought against both the Yucatán independence movement and the federal government in the so-called "Caste war". After Texas gained ''de facto'' independence a disagreement as to its southern border (the Nueces river as claimed by Mexico or the Rio Grande as claimed by Texas) led to the involvement of the US in a brief war that ended in a devastating defeat for Mexico (the line about the "halls of Montezuma" in the marines' song refers to the presidential palace in Mexico city that was conquered by the US) and the loss of Alta California (now the US state of California), Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico as well as the definite loss of Texas north of the Rio Grande. The ceded territories were rapidly colonized by immigrants from Europe and the eastern United States; see [[Old West]]. ====French intervention and Second Mexican empire==== {{main|Post-Independence Mexico}} In 1861, when president Benito Juarez suspended the payment of Mexico's debt, France decided to invade the country in order to regain some or all of its money. This was only possible because the United States, which had declared in its Monroe Doctrine that it wouldn't tolerate any European intervention in the sovereign states of the Americas, started its [[American Civil War|Civil War]] that same year. After overthrowing the government (though Mexican resistance against the occupiers never ceased) the French installed a Habsburg prince as emperor Maximilian I to act as their puppet. While the Mexican monarchy had some support among conservatives its days were numbered when the French troops were withdrawn after the end of the American Civil war, and in 1867, Maximilian was executed by firing squad. Cinco de Mayo, which in the US is often mistaken to be "Mexican independence day", is celebrated in remembrance of the battle of [[Puebla]] that occurred during the French occupation and was decisively won by Mexican republican forces. ====Benito Juárez==== [[File:Estatua de Benito Juárez.jpg|thumb|Statue of Benito Juárez in [[Hidalgo]]]] Benito Juárez was the first president of indigenous descent in all of Latin America and is one very few figures that is still almost exclusively seen as a positive figure in Mexican history. He was president from 1858 to 1864 and again from 1867 to his death in 1872. His saying "el respeto al derecho ajeno es la paz" (respect for the rights of others is peace) is still frequently quoted. ====Porfirio Díaz==== Porfirio Díaz, a general during the French intervention rose to power shortly after the death of Juárez and ruled Mexico from 1876 to 1911. While initially willing and able to reform and modernize the country, the sheer length of his reign and his corruption led to a lot of unhappiness about his government and in 1911 the Mexican revolution broke out to unseat him from power, but it soon devolved into factional fighting between various claimants for power and attempts at radical social and economic reform. ====The Mexican Revolution==== {{main|Mexican Revolution}} The Mexican Revolution was a complex civil war and period of political intrigue and treachery. The Revolution started in 1910 with resistance against a blatantly fraudulent election manipulated by Porfirio Díaz. The Revolution really ignited into full-scale war when the elected president (Madero) was assassinated by Díaz loyalists. Several factions had different complaints about Díaz and his corrupt, never-ending dictatorship. Groups loyal to Venustiano Carranza wanted constitutional reforms. Groups loyal to Emiliano Zapata wanted land reforms and rights for the indigenous. Other groups demanded an end to resource giveaways to foreign industrial interests, while others demanded an end to excessive power of the Catholic church. The groups eventually coalesced behind the Constitutionalists and stable government was restored by 1920. ====Under the PRI==== {{main|Modern Mexico}} Once the dust of the revolution had settled the Revolutionary Institutional Party (PRI [pronounced /pree/] for its Spanish name) became the dominant political force and all presidents before the early 1990s were members of the PRI. They did not establish a one party state and other parties were still legal and participated in elections. However, the success of the PRI candidate (especially at the federal level) was almost always a given. As such, political power struggles mostly took place within the PRI, with more conservative or left wing factions gaining the upper hand from time to time. In 1988, during a presidential election that was actually close for the first time in decades, a computer that counted the votes supposedly crashed. The words with which this was announced "se cayó el sistema" are noted for their ambiguity as they can mean either "the computer broke down" or "the (political) system fell". Nonetheless, according to the official result (which was and still is doubted by many), the PRI candidate won a six-year term in office just narrowly surpassing the 50% threshold needed to avoid a runoff election. In 2000 the PRI finally lost its first presidential election when Vicente Fox of the conservative National Action Party (PAN) won a narrow victory in a three-way race. In 2006 the PAN won again with Felipe Calderon being elected president but in 2012 the PRI returned to power with Enrique Peña Nieto, who promised to end the drug war being elected to the presidency. Whether this proves temporary or the PRI has indeed regained its once dominant status, remains yet to be seen. ====Mexico today==== {{main|Modern Mexico}} Despite problems such as corruption and the drug war in the North (with some areas under ''de facto'' control of different cartels), Mexico has grown steadily, and there have been democratic multiparty elections with peaceful transition of power. A fairly stable three party system has emerged: the PAN (conservative) and PRI (centrist, catch all, sometimes leftist) have each won the presidency several times and the PRD (left of the PRI) has been a serious contender in almost all elections. The drug war is ongoing and some parts of the country are not entirely safe, but the situation has bettered a lot after the 2000s. Generally the North with cities such as Ciudad Juarez notorious for their violence is more dangerous than the south and Yucatán is among the safest regions in Latin America. For more on the effects of the drug war see the stay safe section of this article and the individual region articles. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) assumed power on December 1, 2018, after waging a populist, anti-corruption campaign and winning the 2018 election with more than a 30% margin over his next closest opponent. He is the leader of the center-left National Regeneration Movement (MORENA). Having had a reputation as a leftist firebrand in the past, AMLO has moderated his politics in order to appeal to a wider share of the electorate, though he remains a solidly left-leaning, populist politician. Under his leadership, Mexico has served as a moderator in wider Latin American politics, for example, in the Venezuelan and Bolivian crises, while also navigating relations with the United States government over trade and migrant issues. In 2024, Mexico elected Claudia Sheinbaum as its first female and first Jewish president to succeed AMLO. ===Visitor information === *[https://visitmexico.com/eng/home-2 Visit Mexico] website ==Get in== {{cautionbox| Mexico charges M$390 (2016) per person that has spent more than 7 days (inclusive) in the country, e.g., 1st to 7th is 7 days. Payable on exit whatever the mode of transportation. On entrance, officials may say that 7 days is non-inclusive but you will find out otherwise when you exit the country. If you flew into Mexico on a commercial flight, the cost of your plane ticket already included the tourism tax and you absolutely do ''not'' need to pay it again upon exiting. You will need to prove to the border officials that you have already paid, by showing the following: #Your FMM card you received upon arrival, and #An itemized receipt from your flight purchase showing the Tourism Tax Certain foreign nationals who can enter Mexico with only a passport and FMM Card, and stay up to 180 days as tourists (30 days for business travelers) are no longer granted the full 180 days by default as is it was in the past. Always check your passport stamp and FMM card upon arrival to determine how many days are granted before walking away from the immigration counter. Ask the immigration officer if you cannot read the handwriting to be sure how many days you are granted to stay in the country. NEVER assume that you are granted the full 180 days or they will automatically tell you if you are given less than 180 days. You can arbitrarily be granted any number of days from 3 to the full 180 days depending on the whim of the immigration officer who can also check for an onward ticket out of Mexico, hotel reservations, proof of funds, etc. Travelers have reported to have been detained for over-staying the less than 180 day time allotted to them when they entered and it is uncertain how long the travelers are/will be detained (at any length of time) before deportation out of Mexico. The immigration authorities and military do set up random checkpoints in the interior to stop passing traffic and check the travelers' ID cards (Mexican nationals) and the visa status of foreign nationals.}} ===Visa and other entrance requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Mexico.png|thumb|450px|Visa policy of Mexico]] [[File:Mexico entry.png|thumb|Mexican entry stamp]] According to the [http://www.sre.gob.mx/english/ Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Secretaria de Relaciones Exteriores)]{{Dead link|date=October 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, certain foreign nationals who intend to stay in Mexico fewer than 180 days for the purpose of tourism or 30 days for business can fill out a tourist card at the border or upon landing at an airport after presenting a valid passport, for US$22. If arriving via air, it is included in the price of the fare. This service is available to citizens of [[Andorra]], [[Argentina]], [[Aruba]], [[Australia]], [[Austria]], [[Bahamas]], [[Barbados]], [[Belgium]], [[Belize]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[Colombia]], [[Costa Rica]], [[Cyprus]], [[Czech Republic]], [[Denmark]], [[Estonia]], [[Finland]], [[France]], [[Germany]], [[Great Britain]], [[Greece]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Hungary]], [[Ireland]], [[Iceland]], [[Israel]], [[Italy]], [[Jamaica]], [[Japan]], [[Latvia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Lithuania]], [[Luxembourg]], [[Macau]], [[Malaysia]], [[Malta]], [[Marshall Islands]], [[Micronesia]], [[Monaco]], [[Netherlands]], [[New Zealand]], [[Norway]], [[Palau]], [[Panama]], [[Paraguay]], [[Peru]], [[Poland]], [[Portugal]], [[Puerto Rico]], [[Romania]], [[San Marino]], [[Singapore]], [[Slovakia]], [[Slovenia]], [[Spain]], [[South Korea]], [[Sweden]], [[Switzerland]], [[Trinidad and Tobago]], [[United States of America|United States]] and [[Uruguay]] (see official list [https://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/Paises_No_Visa/en.html here]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}). Permanent residents of the United States, Canada, Japan, United Kingdom, and Schengen area countries are also eligible for visas on arrival regardless of citizenship. The Mexican tourist card is a ''Forma Migratoria Múltiple'' (Multiple Immigration Form), or FMM. It has a perforation that divides the card into two parts, of which the right side asks for some of the same information requested on the left side. At entry, after reviewing your passport and filled-out FMM, the immigration officer will stamp your passport and the FMM, separate the FMM along the perforation and give the right side of the FMM back to you with your passport. The paper tourist card is being phased out. At many ports of entry (including [[Benito Juárez International Airport|Mexico City's international airport]]), you will not have to complete a paper form. Rather, the immigration officer will stamp your passport. A digital version of the tourist card (FMMd, ''Forma Migratoria Múltiple Digital'') will be generated for you, which can be downloaded from [https://www.inm.gob.mx/spublic/portal/inmex.html the website]. If you have a paper FMM, keep it with your passport at all times. It is your responsibility to make sure the right side of the FMM is returned to the Mexican government at time of departure so that the bar code can be scanned, thus showing that you left the country on time. For example, if you are flying with Aeromexico, they will ask for your passport and FMM at check-in for your flight home, then staple your FMM to your boarding pass. You are expected to then hand the boarding pass together with your FMM to the gate agent as you board your flight. If you lose your FMM during your visit to Mexico, you may be subject to substantial delays and fines before you can leave the country. [https://www.inm.gob.mx/index.php/page/Inicio_Autorizacion_Electronica/en.html Electronic Authorization System (SAE, Autorización Electrónica)]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for travelling to Mexico is available on the Internet for nationals from [[Russia]], [[Turkey]], and [[Ukraine]]. Russians, Ukrainians, and Turkish citizens with permanent residency or a valid visa to Canada, the US, Japan, the UK, or any Schengen country don't need an SAE. Other nationalities must contact a Mexican consulate in order to find out the requirements for citizens of their country, and may have to apply for and obtain a visa in advance of travel. If you are in need of other information, Mexico has diplomatic offices in the following cities around the world. The consulates in the USA are typically open for business to non-citizens (by telephone or in-person) only from 08:30 to 12:30. If you cross the border via road, do not expect the authorities to automatically signal you to fill out your paperwork. You will have to locate the border office yourself. The immigration officer at your point of entry into Mexico can request that you demonstrate that you have sufficient economic solvency. The immigration officer can demand a round trip ticket. Be advised if you only booked a one-way ticket to Mexico: The airline may want to see a ticket that carries you out of Mexico, especially when flying from an equally or less developed country than Mexico – also if your passport is from a highly industrialized nation. It could be that the airline wants to see that onward ticket as "early" as at the gate, where you may not have enough time to buy one. So have at least an onward ticket from specialized websites for around US$10 (Nov 2021) ready when heading to the airport for your flight for Mexico. If you do not intend to travel past the "border zone" and your stay does not exceed three days, U.S. and Canadian nationals require only a proof of citizenship. Reentry into the United States generally requires a passport, but a U.S. or Canadian Enhanced Drivers License (or Enhanced Photo ID) or U.S. passport card is acceptable for reentry by land or sea. ===By plane=== [[File:Fila Aeroméxico.JPG|thumbnail|Aeromexico planes at Benito Juarez International Airport]] ====From the United States and Canada==== There are hundreds of daily flights linking Mexico to cities large and small throughout North America. This includes legacy carriers such as Air Canada, Aeromexico, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta, and discount airlines such as JetBlue, Spirit, WestJet, and Southwest Airlines. Also to be considered are the Mexican discount carriers '''Volaris''', which operate from several major US cities through their hubs in [[Mexico City]] and [[Guadalajara]], and '''Viva Aerobus''', which also operates from several major US cities through hubs in [[Mexico City]] and [[Monterrey]]. '''United Airlines'''/'''United Express''' fly to many smaller market Mexican cities and resort areas, including Aguascaliente, Chihuahua, Ciudad de Carmen, Durango, Huatulco, Leon/Guanajuato, Oaxaca, Merida, San Luis Potosi, Torreon, Tampico, Veracruz and Villahermosa. As in the United States and Canada, you will have to clear immigration ''and'' customs at your first Mexican port of entry, even though that airport may not be your final destination. (For example, many trips on Aeromexico will involve connecting through its Mexico City hub.) You will then have to re-check your bags and go through security again to proceed to your next flight segment. ====From Australia or New Zealand==== Fly from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne or Auckland (NZ) direct to Los Angeles on American Airlines, Delta, Qantas, and United. Air New Zealand offers one-stop air service from Australia and non-stop air service from Auckland to Los Angeles. Hawaiian Airlines and Air Tahiti Nui offer one- or two-stop air service to Los Angeles from Australia and New Zealand. Many airlines continue from [[Los Angeles International Airport|Los Angeles]] to Mexico including AeroMexico/Aeromexico Connect, Alaska Airlines, Volaris, United and Virgin America, some of which have interline or alliance ticketing and baggage check through. More options are available if connecting through another US city. Also, make sure to have a good look at visas beforehand – even just for transit you will need something for the US, and if you get a visa waiver, they treat Mexico as part of the US, meaning if you stay longer than 90 days in Mexico, you will need to travel further south before returning to the US. ====From Europe==== Most commercial airlines link Mexico directly from Europe. There are direct flights to [[Benito Juarez International Airport|Mexico City]] ({{IATA|MEX}}) and [[Cancun#By plane|Cancun]] ({{IATA|CUN}}) from Paris ({{IATA|CDG}}), [[London#By plane|London]] ({{IATA|LON}}), Madrid ({{IATA|MAD}}), [[Schiphol Airport|Amsterdam]] ({{IATA|AMS}}), and [[Frankfurt airport|Frankfurt]] ({{IATA|FRA}}). Some carriers will serve both Mexico City and Cancun while others will only serve one and not the other (usually only to Cancun such as those from Russia and Italy). Additional flights to Cancun from Europe may only be available as charters and some may operate during the winter months (December–February) only. It is always worth to compare flight offers from air carriers and charter companies who can bring you to Mexico City or Cancun via many European hubs. The flight duration from those cities is always approximately 11 hours. ===By train=== From the United States to Mexico the nearest '''[http://www.amtrak.com Amtrak]''' stations are in [[San Diego#By train|San Diego]], [[Yuma#By train|Yuma]], [[Del Rio#By rail|Del Rio]] and [[El Paso#By train|El Paso]]. The frequent ''[http://www.pacificsurfliner.com Pacific Surfliner]'' connects San Diego from [[San Luis Obispo]] via [[Los Angeles#By train|Los Angeles]]; while the ''[http://www.amtrak.com/sunset-limited-train Sunset Limited]'' and ''[https://www.amtrak.com/routes/texas-eagle-train.html Texas Eagle]'' pass by Yuma, El Paso and Del Rio between [[Los Angeles]] and [[San Antonio]]. In San Antonio the ''Texas Eagle'' continues northwards towards [[Chicago]] while the ''Sunset Limited'' continues east to [[New Orleans#By train|New Orleans]]. Amtrak trains do not cross the border into Mexico so passengers continue to the border by local public transportation or by taxi from the Amtrak station. The '''Tren Maya''' has a station along the [[Belize]] border in the city of [[Chetumal]]. Buses are available there for onward travel to [[Mérida (Mexico)|Merida]], [[Cancún]] or other destinations in the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]. The Tren Maya also has two stops near the [[Guatemala]] border (at El Triunfo and at Boca del Cerro), but neither have scheduled transportation to any Guatemalan destinations. ===By car=== [[File:SanYsidroBorderCrossingByPhilKonstantin.jpg|thumbnail|Crossing into Mexico from the U.S. near Tijuana]] American automobile insurance is not accepted in Mexico; however, it is easy to obtain short-term or long-term tourist policies that include the mandatory liability coverage, theft and accident coverage for your vehicle, and often, legal assistance coverage. Should you decide to drive to Mexico, the [http://www.sct.gob.mx/ Transport and Communications Secretariat website] has free downloadable road maps. Foreign-plated vehicles must obtain necessary permits before being allowed into the interior of Mexico. This can be done at the border checkpoints by showing your vehicle title or registration, as well as immigration documents and a valid credit card. It is now possible to apply for your vehicle import permit online. Vehicle permits will only be issued to the registered owner of the vehicle, so the papers will have to be in the name of the applicant. The Baja California peninsula and the northern part of the State of Sonora do not require a permit. Driving a '''rental car''' from the United States into Mexico is possible with some of the large multinational companies, but the process is rather cumbersome. You will need to inform your car rental company in advance and purchase additional Mexican insurance (since U.S. car insurance does not cover Mexico), and you cannot drive beyond the border region into the interior of Mexico. You also cannot drop off a U.S. rental car in Mexico, and must return to the U.S. to drop it off. In the reverse direction, Mexican rental cars are usually not permitted to be driven into the U.S. Due to the contraband crossing the US-Mexico border (drugs and illegal immigration into the US, drug money and weapons into Mexico), expect long delays and thorough searches of vehicles when crossing the border. At some of the busiest crossings, expect a waiting time of 1–3 hours. ===By bus=== ''See main article, [[Bus travel in Mexico]]''. Buses are the most widely used transportation system in Mexico with routes going to all parts of the country. Long-distance buses are very comfortable and affordable. All border crossings have bus stations where buses can take you to interior cities, often to large bus terminals providing connections to virtually any major city or tourist destination. From the southern United States, many companies provide trans-border service with modern, comfortable buses that cross the border. You can take a bus from [[Chicago]] all the way to [[Mexico City]], though some companies will only take you to the border region where you can connect to a domestic Mexican bus company for onward travel to the interior of Mexico. A list of these companies is in [[Bus travel in Mexico]]. Buses are also available from Central America into Mexico. These buses usually go to [[Tapachula]], where you can connect to domestic Mexican bus companies for onward travel to the interior. Buses from [[Belize City]] will take you to [[Chetumal]] where you can connect to a Mexican bus or to the Tren Maya for onward rail journeys. ===By boat=== * Border crossing from [[Guatemala]]. * Cruise ships from the United States. ==Get around== Travelling in Mexico is most practical by bus, car, or air. Passenger transport by train is possible in some areas. most extensively in the Yucatán Peninsula, with its modern ''Tren Maya'' service. The '''Chihuahua del Pacifico''' railroad is one of the most scenic railroads in the world, passing through the Copper Canyon, and departing from Los Mochis on the Pacific coast, or Creel in the east. They cross each other roughly midways at '''Divisadero and Barrancas''' Copper Canyon stations at an altitude of 2100&nbsp;m (7000&nbsp;ft). ===By car=== {{main|Driving in Mexico}} [[File:Highway120PinalAmoles.JPG|thumbnail|Highway 120 passing through the village of Pinal de Amoles]] Due to a government scheme in the early 1990s to create infrastructure, the best roads are toll roads. Toll roads can be relatively costly but are much faster and better maintained. First-class buses generally travel by toll roads (and the toll is included in the ticket price). US vehicle insurance is not valid in Mexico. Mexican auto insurance has been required since 2018; if you have even a minor accident without insurance, you could land in jail. [http://www.mexipass.com/ MexiPass] and AAA offer Mexican auto insurance. When traveling on Mexican roads, especially near the borders with the United States and Guatemala, one will probably encounter several checkpoints operated by the Mexican Army searching for illegal weapons and drugs. If you are coming from the United States, you may not be used to this, and it can be intimidating. However, these are rarely a problem for honest people. Simply do what the soldiers tell you to do, and treat them with respect. The best way to show respect when entering a checkpoint is to turn your music down, lift sunglasses from your face, and be prepared to roll your window down. They should treat you with respect as well, and they usually do. If you are asked to unpack any part of your vehicle, do so without complaint. It is their right to make you completely unload in order for them to inspect your cargo. Tourists are often warned about travelling on roads at night. Although ''bandidos'' are rare in more metropolitan areas, err on the side of caution in more rural areas. The best bet is to drive during only daylight hours. Cattle, dogs, and other animals also can appear on the roadway unexpectedly, so if you do have to drive at night, be very cautious. If possible, follow a bus or truck that seems to be driving safely. Foreign drivers' licenses are recognized and recommended. Speeding tickets are common, and to ensure your presence at the hearing, the officer may choose to keep your license. He is within his rights to do so. Beware though, police officers are known to keep driver's licenses until they are given a bribe. At petrol (gas) stations, make sure the pump is zeroed out before the attendant begins pumping your gas so that you don't end up paying more than you should. Good maps are invaluable and the Mexico maps included in "North American Road Atlas" books are worse than useless. The Guia Roji maps are particularly good. If you arrive in Mexico by airplane but would like to drive around the country, all major car rental companies are present in Mexico. However, you must know that they operate under a franchise scheme, and therefore their policies and the overall way to do business are very different than those in other countries. Most of the times they will publish prices that may look very attractive, but may not include insurance, taxes and other mandatory fees, the best thing to do is call in advance to find out the final price to pay. There are some local companies which do include all bells and whistles in their rates, [https://www.veico.com/ Veico Car Rental]. [https://www.citycarrental.com/ City Car Rental] offers good prices and have rental offices as most major cities in Mexico. Throughout the mainland of North America including the Mexico, traffic moves on the right with most cars being left-hand-drive (as in Belize, Guatemala, and the United States of America). The only areas of North America that do not drive on the right are on some Caribbean Islands. ===By plane=== Major airlines hubs for all or several of the airlines are in [[Benito Juarez International Airport|Mexico City-Benito Juarez Airport]], Mexico City-Santa Lucia Airport (NLU), [[Guadalajara#By plane|Guadalajara]], [[Cancún International Airport]], and [[Monterrey#By plane|Monterrey]]. There are additional point to point services from several other cities. Budget airlines offer competitive fares that rival bus travel over long distances. The low-cost airlines are VivaAerobus and Volaris. The main airlines providing service to over 60 cities within Mexico are: * {{listing | type=listing | name=Aeromexico/Aeromexico Connect | alt= | url=http://www.aeromexico.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 5133-4000 (MX) | tollfree=+1-800-237-6639 (US) | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=It is the 'national' and 'legacy' carrier with hubs in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. It is also a member of the SkyTeam Alliance. }} * {{listing | name=Magnicharters | alt= | url=http://www.magnicharters.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 5678-1000, +52 55 5678-3600 (DF), +52 81 2282-9620, +52 2282-9621 (MTY) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-21 | content=Headquartered in Mexico City, their major hubs are in Monterrey and Mexico City. Primary destinations are resort areas preferred by leisure travelers, such as Cancun or Puerto Vallarta. They also offer flights from Las Vegas and Orlando in the U.S. and from Cancun to Havana, Cuba. }} * {{listing | name=Mexicana | alt= | url=https://www.mexicana.gob.mx/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-11-04 | content=In 2023, the Mexican government resurrected the formerly bankrupt carrier and will operate it as a state airline. Mexicana will initially focus on domestic routes only, serving all major cities and resort areas in Mexico. The airline operates on a hub and spoke model with all flights originating or ending at Mexico City - Aeropuerto Internacional Felipe Angeles (AIFA) ({{IATA|NLU}}) in the northern suburb of Santa Lucia. Additional routes will be added via a second hub at Tulum International Airport ({{IATA|TQO}}) in early 2024. }} * {{listing | name=VivaAerobus | alt= | url=http://www.vivaaerobus.com/mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Low-cost, Ryanair-like airline with hubs in Cancun, Monterrey, Mexico City and Guadalajara and new focus cities in Merida and Puebla, and service from the USA. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Volaris | alt= | url=https://www.volaris.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 1102-8000 | tollfree=+1 855 865-2747 (US) | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Hubs are in Mexico City, Tijuana and Guadalajara with focus cities in Cancun, Monterrey and Leon. They also have an additional hub in San Jose Costa Rica and a focus city in Los Angeles, outside of Mexico. They have services to cities in the U.S., Costa Rica, El Salvador and Nicaragua. }} There are also small airlines operating within certain areas such as: * {{listing | name=Aerus | alt= | url=https://flyaerus.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 811 495 5340 (only WhatsApp) | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-07-12 | content=Regional airline based in [[Monterrey]] serving Northern Mexico and the Gulf Coast, including destinations in Tamaulipas, Veracruz, and Tabasco. }} * {{listing | name=Calafia Airlines | alt= | url=https://www.calafiaairlines.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 619 489-1439 (US) | tollfree=01 800 5603949 (MX) | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-22 | content=Operates scheduled flights between cities in the Baja California Peninsula and from the Baja California Peninsula to Chihuahua, Jalisco, Sonora and Sinaloa states. It connects the Baja California Peninsula to Leon (Guanajuato), Monterrey (Nuevo Leon), Mexico City and San Luis Potosi, all in the smaller aircraft. It connects Palenque and Tuxtla Gutierrez (Chiapas) to Mexico City and Cancun. It also offers charters and air taxi services. }} * {{listing | name=Aerotucán | alt= | url=https://www.aerotucan.com.mx | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 952 502-0840 | tollfree=01800 640-4148 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Flies between Oaxaca City, Ciudad Ixtepec, Huatulco and Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca state in small planes. }} * {{listing | name=Señor Air | alt= | url=https://www.senorair.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-07-24 | content=Small regional carrier based out of [[Los Cabos]] ({{IATA|SJD}}) operating a limited route map with service to mainland destinations in Chihuahua, Sinaloa and Jalisco using Embraer aircraft. }} * {{listing | name=TAR | alt= | url=http://www.tarmexico.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 2629-5272 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Hub in Queretaro with focus cities in Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Puerto Vallarta to several destinations nationwide. Operates Embraer regional jets. }} On the Viva Aerobus fares "Zero" and "Light", you cannot check in earlier than 4 hours and 8 hours before departure respectively. As of Nov 2021, the website and app won't tell you that if you try it earlier. Instead giving you a random error message or telling you to check-in at the airport for additional cost, which is not needed. ===By bus=== ==== Intercity buses==== See main article, [[Bus travel in Mexico]] Long-distance buses are an ideal way to experience Mexico. The executive and first-class buses are very modern, clean, and comfortable with bigger seats and more legroom than the first-class cabin of a modern aircraft. Costs are generally low, with first-class tickets costing only slightly more than a much slower second-class bus. All major cities and tourist destinations have good bus service. ==== City buses ==== Most larger cities have a mix of public bus services and privately run bus services. For example, in [[Mexico City]] there are several bus services that are part of the public Metro transportation including large, modern articulated buses that run in dedicated lanes on major arteries, as well as electric buses and traditional buses through most neighborhood. In the city of [[Monterrey]], there are Metrobuses that operate as part of the city's public transit network, often connecting to the Metrorrey subway/light rail stations. There are also more than a dozen private bus companies, usually providing services to a well-defined section of the city. Using the city buses can be complicated, involving various transfers and sometimes multiple providers. Information about these may be in individual destination articles here, but is more reliable in the [https://moovitapp.com/ Moovit] app (available for iPhone or Android). ==== Colectivos, combis, peseros ==== Many cities in Mexico have privately operated van or small bus services that run along popular routes. These go by various names including ''peseros'', ''colectivos'', ''urbans'', or ''combis''. Whatever you call them, they are sometimes vans and sometimes small buses with varying color codes depending on the city you are in and often identifying the operator or route. Usually the route taken is written on cardboard attached to the windshield or with wet and then dried soap or chalk on the windshield listing the local colonias (neighborhoods) and points of interest (Allende, WalMart, Soriana, malls, hospitals, universities, etc.) the routes are not numbered and the schedules are often informal. When a combi gets full, it leaves and won't pick up passengers along the way until somebody gets off. In some cities the pesero stops at marked bus stops while in others bus stops are uncommon and you are expect to signal the bus to pick you up and drop you off wherever you want. If you don't find a stop button in a pesero; just shout the word "baja!" for it to stop. Fares are cheap and vary from M$5-15 (Feb 2022) approximately. ===By carpooling === You can check, if there are rides offered for your route on Blablacar. Especially between bigger cities the chances are good. In order to see the prices in pesos, you need to (re)install the app and choose Mexican pesos. Prices are about 30-50% less than taking an intercity bus. ===By train=== [[File:Tren maya en Mérida Teya 01.jpg|thumb|Tren Maya]] Intercity trains are slowly making a comeback in Mexico, after a 25-year hiatus. The vast majority of cities are not served but as of 2025 a few lines have opened and there are plans for major expansions over the coming years. * [https://www.trenmaya.gob.mx/ ''Tren Maya''] serves the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]] and the [[Riviera Maya]]. The route goes along the Caribbean coast between [[Cancun]] and [[Chetumal]] at the Belize border. It provides access to [[Merida]] and has stations at archaeological sites like [[Chichen Itza]], [[Edzna]], [[Tulum]], and [[Palenque]]. * [https://www.pasajerosinteroceanico.com.mx/ ''Tren Interoceánico''] runs across the Tehuantepec isthmus between [[Salina Cruz]] on the Pacific Ocean and [[Coatzalcocos]] on the Gulf of Mexico coast. Tren Interoceanico has a line that connects Coatzalcocos to [[Palenque]] where passengers can transfer to the Tren Maya. * ''El Insurgente'' is an intercity train in [[Mexico State]] connecting to the [[Mexico City]] Metro at the Observatorio station. ====Tourist trains==== [[File:Copper Canyon Railway.jpg|thumb|''El Chepe'' through the Copper Canyon]] The most famous tourist train in Mexico is the [https://chepe.mx/en/ ''Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico''] (Chihuahua-Pacific Railway or ''El Chepe'') between [[Los Mochis]], [[Sinaloa]], and the town of [[Creel]], [[Chihuahua]], through the gorgeous [[Copper Canyon]]. In the state of Jalisco there are a couple of lines which travel from the state capital city of [[Guadalajara]] to the nearby tequila distilleries in the small town of Amatitlan on the [https://www.tequilaexpress.mx/ ''Tequila Express''] and to the Jose Cuervo distilleries in the town of [[Tequila]] on the [http://www.josecuervoexpress.com ''Jose Cuervo Express'']. There is also a tourist train that runs from [[Tijuana]] to [[Tecate]] (and back again) on Saturdays. ===By taxi=== Ride-hailing is available in Mexico and the following are the most anticipated providers. There may be destinations where the service is not available due to differences with local cab groups. * {{listing | type=go | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/mexico-city | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content=Works in Mexico City and other cities. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Cabify | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content= }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Didi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content= }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-05-31 | content=Includes three cities. }} Many drivers in Mexico do not like payment by credit card. If you're having trouble hailing a ride, try switching to cash payment. ===By thumb=== One upside of the high petroleum prices is that hitching is beginning to be more common in Mexico again, particularly the rural areas. In areas near big cities, hitching should be more difficult, and is not really advisable for security reasons. However, in village areas, this will be really possible and most likely a nice experience. Since villagers have always had a hard time affording gas, and nowadays many are turning to picking up paying hitchhikers as a way to afford the next trip into town. Baja California, the Sierra Tarahumara and Oaxaca and Chiapas all have good possibilities for the hitchhiker. [[Hitchhiking]] possibilities vary according to region. Mexican culture is often accepting of hitchhiking and it's a common practice among Mexican youngsters going to the beach in Easter vacations, though in some cases a money contribution is expected for gas because of its relatively high prices. You should make it clear that you have no money to offer before accepting the ride, if this is the case. If you're willing to pay, trucks will often provide lifts for about half the price of a bus ticket. Of course you may be able to negotiate a better deal. Hitchhiking is considered fairly safe and easy in the [[Yucatán and the South|Yucatán Peninsula]]. ==Talk== {{see also|Spanish phrasebook}} '''Spanish''' is the ''de facto'' national language. Spanish is used by virtually the whole population and all public communications (signs, documents, media, etc.) are conducted in the language. Mexico has one of the richest diversity of more than 60 '''indigenous languages''' spoken with official recognition. These languages are spoken within the communities that are largely segregated from mainstream mestizo society. About 5% of Mexicans speak an indigenous language. Most of these communities are fluent in Spanish as well. Many Mexicans do not speak English, even though it is understood by many in Mexico City, tour guides, and workers in popular tourist attractions. Because of this, a good knowledge of Spanish is essential for the independent traveller. The most popular foreign languages to learn within Mexico after English are French, Italian, German and Japanese. German, French, and Russian may be known by some in the tourism industry, but among clerks, policemen, and drivers (most particularly the last) there is basically no such thing as knowledge of foreign languages. Bilingual signs in Spanish and English might be available in popular tourist destinations. ==See== [[File:Tochimilco portada.jpg|thumbnail|Popocatépetl's 16th century monasteries are World Heritage Sites]] Many travelers come to see Mexico's natural wonders, includingː * '''Copper Canyon''' - ride the train through an enormous canyon system in the northwestern mountains * '''Mesoamerican Barrier Reef''' - scuba dive the coral reefs in the warm waters of the Mexican Caribbean * '''Sea of Cortez''' - see migrating whales, sea lions, dolphins and more * '''Volcano Belt''' - climb Mexico's highest mountain peaks and see active, dormant, and inactive volcanoes There are 35 [[UNESCO World Heritage Site|UNESCO world heritage sites]] in Mexico as of 2018, more than anywhere else in the Americas. Most of them are in the cultural category and relate to either the pre-Columbian civilizations in the area or to early colonial cities established by the Spanish ''conquistadores'' and missionaries. Much of Mexico is mountainous with some mountains rising higher than 5,000 m over the sea level. Mexico is on the border of two bioregions; both [[North American wildlife]] and [[Central and South American wildlife]] can be seen in the country. A number of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are in Mexico as well as a number of RAMSAR wetlands. The Mexican Tourism Ministry (SECTUR) has a program called ''[[Pueblos Magicos]]'' to identify and develop tourist programs in smaller, lesser known destinations. Towns designated as Pueblos Magicos usually are rich in colonial heritage, maintain cultural traditions, or offer spectacular natural wonders. These towns are the kinds of places a couple would go for a romantic weekend because they often feature interesting historical sites in a quaint setting with local bed and breakfast inns, regional cuisine in the local restaurants, and good accessibility from major cities. == Do == [[Image:Mayan ruins at Tulum Mexico.jpg|thumb|300px|Mayan Ruins of Tulum]] The warm Mexican climate, spectacular nature and long coastline make the country great for [[outdoor life]], especially [[water sport]]. * '''Surfing''' – [[Baja California]], [[Vallarta]], [[Oaxaca (state)|Oaxaca]] * '''Sea kayaking''' – Baja California * '''Snorkeling''' – Baja California, Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, etc. * '''[[Diving in Mexico|Scuba diving]]''' – Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas etc., and cave diving in the cenotes of the Yucatán Peninsula. * '''Whale watching''' – Baja California, [[Guerrero Negro]], [[Mazunte]], [[Zipolite]] * '''White water rafting''' – Veracruz * '''Visit a volcano''' – Mexico, Toluca etc. * '''Take a ride on the Copper Canyon Railway''' * '''Enjoy the beautiful coast line and beaches of Oaxaca''' – [[Huatulco]], [[Mazunte]], [[Zipolite]], Puerto Angel, [[Puerto Escondido]], etc. * Go for a '''horseback ride''' in the Copper Canyon * '''Visit the archaeological sites''' like Chichen Itza, Tulum, Coba, Monte Alban, Calakmul, Palenque, etc. * '''Volunteering''' – Chiapas, Xalapa, Veracruz or many other destinations * '''Visit ecological parks''' – [[Mayan Riviera]], [[Chiapas]], [[Tamaulipas]] * '''Trekking and viewing cave paintings''' [[Baja California]] ===Sports=== '''[[Association football|Football]]''' (soccer) is Mexico's national sport, and its top men's league, the '''[http://www.ligamx.net/ Liga MX]''', is one of the best funded outside Europe. The big four teams in the Liga MX are '''[http://www.clubamerica.com.mx América]''', '''[http://www.chivasdecorazon.com.mx Chivas]''', '''[http://www.cruzazulfc.com Cruz Azul]''' and '''[http://www.pumas.mx/ Pumas]'''. The rivalry between [[Guadalajara]]'s Chivas and [[Mexico City]]'s América, known as ''El Súper Clásico'', ''El Clásico de Clásicos'' or just ''El Clásico'', is the biggest in Mexico, and fixtures between the two sides are guaranteed to draw partisan sell-out crowds. In [[Northern Mexico]], the biggest game of the year is the ''Clasico Regio'', pitting Monterrey's two top teams against each other. The Mexican national team is also a regional powerhouse, and matches against its northern neighbor, the [[United States of America|United States]], are particularly charged affairs. '''Baseball''' is the second biggest team sport in the country with two leagues, [https://www.milb.com/mexican/ Liga Mexicana de Beisbol] (LMB) and the [https://www.lmp.mx/ Liga Pacifica] (LMP)(sponsored by ARCO). The best players make it to Major League Baseball teams in the U.S., but that is not a universal goal in Mexico, where many players enjoy long careers (particularly in the Mexican League teams) and are relatively well paid. The Liga Mexicana began in 1925. It is organized as two divisions, North and South, with 18 teams playing a 114-game season, from April to September. Teams are located in many popular tourist destinations including [[Cancun]] (Tigres), [[Mexico City]] (Diablos Rojos), [[Guadalajara]] (Mariachis), [[Monterrey]] (Sultanes), and [[Tijuana]] (Toros). The LMP is a winter league with 10 teams, mostly in the states of [[Sinaloa]] and [[Sonora]], but with teams in [[Mexicali]] (Aguilas), [[Guadalajara]] (Charros), and [[Monterrey]] (Sultanes). Monterrey and Guadalajara are the two cities with teams in both leagues, so you can catch a game there at almost any time of the year. '''[[American Football]]''' has a long tradition in Mexico but has often been relegated to third fiddle by the more popular soccer and baseball. Estadio Azteca has seen a handful of NFL games (including, at a time, the best attended NFL game in league history up to that point) and besides a long-standing college league, there is now also a professional league with teams focused in and around Mexico City. '''[[Bullfighting]]''', also referred to as ''la fiesta brava'', is a popular (but declining) spectator sport with a long Hispanic tradition stretching back as far as 2,000 years. Tradition crashes headlong into the modern world when it comes to bullfighting, where animal rights activists fight a constantly escalating war against bullfighting. Proponents of bullfighting point not only to the colorful traditions, but to the fact that the "industry" supporting bullfighting creates 18,000 jobs nationwide. Activists say it's a barbaric, bloodthirsty tradition that has no place in a civilized world. The debate is ongoing and while Mexico City's first bullfight was held in 1526, many people would be happy if no 500th anniversary could take place. Mexico City's Plaza de Toros (Plaza Monumental) is the world's largest bullring and is regarded as being part of the "triple crown" of bullfighting, alongside Madrid and Sevilla. While animal rights activists succeeded in having bullfights blocked in Mexico City in 2022, the case was overturned on appeal and bullfights have resumed in the capital. Bullfights usually occur between November and March, but the season varies by location. In [[Tijuana]], bullfights occur between April and October. In some smaller towns, bullfights are held only in conjunction with large festivals. In any case, travellers who might want a genuine bullfight experience should make plans to visit Mexico soon because the tradition of bullfighting may not last forever. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mexican pesos | currencyCode=M$ | date=July 2025 | USD=19 | EUR=22 | GBP=25 | CAD=14 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mxn-mexican-peso XE.com] }} The currency of Mexico is the ''peso'', denoted in Mexico as "'''$'''" (ISO code '''MXN''') and in Wikivoyage as "'''M$'''". It is divided into 100 ''centavos''. Prices in US dollars (in tourist areas) are labeled "US$" or sport an ''S'' with a double stroke. Coins are issued in denominations of 5, 10 (steel), 20, and 50 centavos (brass; new 50-centavo coins issued from 2011 onwards are steel and smaller in size) and 1, 2, 5 (steel ring, brass center), 10, 20, 50, and 100 pesos (brass ring, steel or silver center), but it's extremely rare to find coins valued at more than 10 pesos. Banknotes are produced in denominations of 20 (blue or green and pink), 50 (pink-red or purple), 100 (red), 200 (green), 500 (brown or blue), and 1,000 (purple and pink for the latest issue, purple for older issues) pesos. The current issue of 20-, 50- and 100-peso bills are made from polymer plastic, and there are several different series of all banknotes. Ten-peso notes exist, but are very rare and no longer issued and accepted, but remain legal tender. ====Acceptance of other currency==== "Old" pesos (issued before 1993) are no longer accepted, but are usually collected by numismatists. Merchants may accept US dollars at a lower exchange rate. US dollars are sometimes accepted in border towns and in some tourist areas. Even when US dollars are accepted, pesos are preferred. Other currencies such as the euro, pound sterling, and Swiss franc are generally not accepted by merchants, and even banks headquartered in Europe may refuse to accept euros for exchange. On the other hand, most banks and exchange offices (''casas de cambio'') will accept them. If you arrive from the south and still carry Central American currency, try to exchange them as soon as possible, as outside of the immediate border area not even banks will accept them. As all Central American countries either have the US dollar as their national currency (El Salvador and Panama) or have it circulating to varying degrees as a ''de facto'' second currency and virtually all banks in Central America and most banks in Mexico accept US dollars (usually at better rates than any other currency) your best bet is to "triangulate" your money from local currency to dollars and from dollars to pesos rather than exchanging them directly, which can be difficult and expensive. Should you have forgotten to exchange your money and the banks are closed, street money changers (called ''coyotes'' or ''cambistas'') don't have fixed opening hours and often have better rates. Be careful however, as they do from time to time rip off foreign visitors with bogus calculators, wrong rates and counterfeit or outdated (and thus worthless) bills. ====Money exchange==== If you have brought cash in US dollars or euros, the best places to change your money are at an arrival airport (such as Mexico City and Cancun), where many money exchanges are located already in the arrival hall (where you can also compare some exchange rates and choose the most convenient) and, normally, at airports, the exchange rate is usually fair. Be sure to pass through Customs before looking for foreign exchange as inside the customs zone in Cancun the rate is far lower than the greediest street vendors ask. If you would like to wait until later to obtain Mexican currency, try not to change at your hotel, as the rates there tend to be extremely disadvantageous for tourists. However, some hotels provide exchanges as a courtesy, in this case it is best to ask just to make sure. Often, you can find money exchanges at strategic places in most tourist destinations and near the hotel (zones). The exchanges rates should not differ drastically from the ones at airport. If you are unfamiliar with Mexican money (bills, coins), try to stick to official foreign exchange booths. In several internationally popular beach destinations like Cancun and Los Cabos, local merchants are accustomed to US dollars and will often accept them as payment (they even have dual-currency cash registers and drawers). However, do bear in mind that the convenience of such “private” money exchange usually comes with a slightly unfavorable exchange rate. ===Shopping=== If there is no price tag, ''ask for the price first''. The simple question is "¿Cuánto cuesta?" and is easily understood by Mexicans. Some shops show the price in '''pesitos'''. That's the diminutive of peso and means the same. [[File:2013-12-27 Oaxaca Markt 03 anagoria.JPG|thumbnail|Spices for sale at a market in Oaxaca]] * Weights are measured in kilograms. Length is measured in centimeters and meters. * For clothes and shoe sizes, the "Continental" measurements are used. Merchants can be picky about the state of your paper money and may scrutinize it and reject anything with rips. Try to keep it in as pristine condition as possible. Reputedly, this is more the case the farther south you go. In any case, you can easily enter a bank with some damaged bill to get it exchanged into another one. Merchants are often reluctant to make change in smaller towns. Try to avoid paying with overly large denominations; the best customer has exact change. In rural areas, your 'change' may consist of chiclets or other small commodities. Merchants, specially those in small markets ("tianguis") and street vendors are no strangers to haggling. Try asking "¿Es lo menos?" ("Is this the smallest price?"), The more rural and less touristy the area you're likely to have more success. *'''[[Mexican Artesanias|Artesanias]]''' A visit to anywhere in Mexico will give one the opportunity to buy art made in the "old world" manner that reflects the diverse ethnicity of Mexico. Included in these articles would be textiles, wood carvings, paintings and carved masks that are used on sacred dances and burials. In many parts of Mexico, artists welcome visitors to their workshops to see how things are made and often to buy "direct from the source". *'''Timeshares''' When visiting the '''resort''' cities of Mexico (e.g. Cancun, Puerto Vallarta or similar), it is more than common to be approached on the streets, in bars, in restaurants and anywhere with offers of gifts, free rental cars, free nights, free dinners, free anything that may appeal to you, just for visiting and listening to a presentation to buy a timeshare. Unless you are severely desperate for something to do, you may want to ignore those making the offer and stay away from those ''free'' offers. While the properties are very nice, great locations and plenty of amenities, this is not the place to ''learn'' about timeshares. Do your homework before even thinking about buying a timeshare, see what the values are in the ''resale'' market and understand the ''rights'' you are buying and the future costs. Collecting on the ''free'' offers may be difficult, if not impossible. * '''Automobiles''' It's certainly worth going over and importing a car back from there, although importing it to the EU/US standards is the hard part. Recommended are the Ford Fusion (like the British Ford Mondeo, but more upmarket) and the Chrysler 200 (the 2.4 model is worth it). Volkswagens can be substantially better-equipped than European or North American counterparts. The Passat sold in Mexico is not the same car as in Europe, and is substantially bigger, however, engines are the same as in Europe, except for the 2.5 petrol. * '''Cuban cigars''' are a fun novelty for tourists from the US and are widely available. It's still illegal to bring them back to the US, although the worst that's likely to happen is they'll be confiscated by customs. ====Credit cards and debit cards==== Credit cards and debit cards (with Maestro or MasterCard/Visa affiliation) are widely accepted in Mexico. You can use them at ATMs as well as in most department stores, bigger restaurants, gas stations, but be sure that outside cities you always carry sufficient cash in pesos, and generally verify the possibility to pay with card before consumption. Smaller (often family run) businesses often accept only cash. Most of the time, an extra 5% when paying with card is added. Also, you cannot get lower prices if you haggle unless you pay cash. While many Pemex stations accept credit cards, especially in locations that have heavy tourist traffic, some do not; travellers who intend to pay by credit card should always ask the attendant if the card is accepted before pumping begins. ====ATMs==== Bank of America customers can avoid ATM fees by using Santander Serfin ATMs. Other banks may have similar policies, check with your respective institution. For example, Banamex bank is owned by Citibank/Citigroup, and Bancomer is owned by BBVA, which is related to Chase in the United States. Ask to your bank if they have relation with Mexican banks, and the advantages that such ally can provide. Otherwise, do not be surprised to find yourself with a fee for each withdrawal. ATMs ask you if you want to accept the shown fee. In some ATMs you need to put your credit card inside crosswise. 5 Lowest ATM fees used with UK issued Mastercard, January 2024: Inbursa M$22.04, BanBajio M$23.20, Banca Mifel M$26.68, BanCoppel M$29, CitiBanamex M$30.74. As of January 2024, other fees are: Banco Azteca M$34.80, Santander M$34.80, HSBC M$35.84, Banorte M$58.00, Multiva M$67.28, Banregio M$81.20, BBVA M$174 pesos There is no difference between Mastercard and Visa. ATMs in smaller towns can run out of currency; sometimes this is a regular occurrence. Check with the bank (or locals) about the best time to use the ATM and never wait until the last minute to get cash. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping]] in Mexico is similar to the United States. It is usually from 10 to 15%. Meals have a 10% to 15% tip (this includes fast food deliveries). This tip is usually left by most people in restaurants, although it is not so common in street restaurants or stands, where the tenders usually have a can or box where people deposit coins. It is generally common to leave a tip on the table after paying and therefore having small change is very useful. Mexican bars and night clubs often charge directly to the bill 15% of the total amount (taxes included). That is illegal in most cases because of the imposition of the tip and because they calculate the 15% with taxes included. In large groups, or in nightclubs the barmen expect the customers to deposit their tip in a cup left on the table before serving the drinks so the service they give is in function with the tip they received. It is also customary to give a tip to the person who sometimes guard the car as if they were valet parking; in Mexico these people are often called ''viene viene'' (literally: "comes, comes") or ''franeleros'' and usually people give them M$3-20 depending on the zone, although they sometimes ask for bigger sums of money when the car is left close to a night life area. In medium and large retail stores such as Wal-Mart there are uniformed helpers, usually children or the elderly, who bag the products just after the clerk has scanned them. This role is called ''cerillo'' (Spanish for "match"). It is common for these helpers to not have a basic salary, so all the money earned is from the tips people give them. Most customers give M$2-5 depending on the number of products. Cerillos also put the bags in the cart and if the load is large they can even help bringing it to the car and unloading the bags; in these cases, they normally receive more than M$15. Tipping is not expected in cabs or buses, except when it is a tour. In some populated Mexican restaurants wandering musicians enter, play, and expect the customers to pay something, although this is voluntary. In filling stations, the workers usually get M$2-5 for every gasoline load. In stadiums people give a small tip to the person who shows the place where they should sit. Tips are also given to bellboys, barbers and people that work in similar services. ==Eat== [[File:TacoPlacesPetatlan.JPG|thumbnail|Taco stalls]] [[File:Gordita.jpg|thumbnail|Gordita]] {{see also|Mexican cuisine}} [[Mexican cuisine]] can be described better as a collection of various regional cuisines rather than a standard list of dishes for the whole country. Because of climate, geography and ethnic differences, we can classify Mexican cuisine broadly in 4 great categories according to the region: * '''Northern''' – Mostly meat dishes done mainly from beef and goat. This includes Cabrito, Carne Asada (Barbecue) and Arrachera. Is influenced by international cuisine (mostly from the United States and Europe), but it retains the essential Mexican flavor. * '''Central''' – This region is influenced by the rest of the country, but has its own well-developed local flavor in dishes such as Pozole, Menudo and Carnitas. Dishes are mostly corn-based and with different spices. * '''Southeastern''' – Is known for its spicy vegetable and chicken-based dishes. Caribbean cuisine have influences here because of the location. * '''Coast''' – Has a strong emphasis on seafood and fish, but corn-based recipes can be easily found as well. Ask for the "platillo tipico" of the town, which is the local speciality that may not be found elsewhere, a variation, or the birthplace of a recipe. Also consider that most of the recipes change from place to place: for example, tamales in the south are made with the banana plant leaves, and in the Huasteca region tamales are very big (they are called "Zacahuil"); one is OK for a complete family. If you are travelling here from [[Spain]] or elsewhere in [[Latin America]], keep in mind that many Mexican dishes can have the same name, but be very different from their counterparts elsewhere. For instance, a Mexican ''tamal'' is very different from a Colombian ''tamal'', and a Mexican ''tortilla'' bears virtually no similarity at all to a Spanish ''tortilla''. Traditional Mexican food can often be very spicy; if you are not used to peppers, always ask if your food includes it. "(''¿Esto tiene chile? Es picante?'')." There are many [[street food|food carts]] on the streets of Mexican cities and towns. Travelers are advised to eat from these carts with caution, as hygienic preparation practices are not always reliable. You can measure the quality of food by popularity; do not eat in lonely places, even if they are restaurants or hotels. Consider that Mexicans eat their main meal in the middle of the afternoon (around 3 o'clock), with breakfast or "almuerzo", a mid-morning affair after a very light something, like a small plate of fruit or a roll with coffee, in the very early morning. Although, many Mexicans have large breakfasts in the morning. Later, at night the meal varies from very light, such as sweet rolls or breads, coffee or hot chocolate, to heavy dinner, such as pozole, tacos, and tamales. Schedule your meals accordingly and you will get a better perspective on the gauge of how busy (popular) a restaurant is. In doing so, you may (or may not) find some of the most unique and genuinely Mexican dishes you've ever had. From these vendors, you may find tacos, burgers, bread, roasted field corn or elote served with mayonnaise, or a light cream, and sprinkled with fresh white cheese, roasted sweet potato called camote, and almost any kind of food and service you would imagine. * '''Chicharrón''' – Deep fried pork skin. Quite crunchy and if well-prepared slightly oily. Heavenly spread with guacamole. Or sometimes cooked in a mild chili sauce and served with eggs. * '''Enchiladas''' – Chicken or meat stuffed soft tortillas covered with green, red or mole sauce. Some may have melted cheese inside and/or on top. * '''Tacos''' – Soft corn tortillas filled with meat (asada (steak strips), pollo (shredded chicken), carnitas (fried shredded pork), lengua (cow tongue), cabeza (meat from cow skull), sesos (cow brains), tripa (cow gut), al pastor (chili, pork, beef cut from a spit) or chorizo (pork sausage)). In the north sometimes flour tortillas are used. Do not expect the crispy taco shell anywhere. * '''Tamales''' (singular ''tamal'') – corn dough shell with meat or vegetable fillings. Tamales Dulces contain fruit and/or nuts. * '''Tortas''' – Fancy Mexican sandwich. Bread roll that is grilled lightly, meat fillings are same as tacos: lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, beans, onion, mayonnaise and avocado. One is beginning to find tortas with the American styled cold cuts available, as well, in urban areas. * '''Huitlacoche''' – (wit-la-ko-che) A fungus, much like mushrooms, found in corn. This dish is usually an additive to others. Foreigners might find it hard to stomach but Mexicans swear by it. Although most Mexicans love huitlacoche, most do not prepare it in their own home very frequently. It can be found in most markets or stores. * '''Quesadillas''' – Cheese or other ingredients grilled in between corn tortillas, heavy on cheese and lighter on other items such as chicken, pork, beans, squash flower blossoms and such. * '''Mole''' – Mild to medium chili based sauce made with cocoa and a hint of peanut over meat, usually served with shredded chicken or turkey. ('Pollo en mole' and this is known as Puebla or poblano style). There are many regional moles and some are green, yellow, black and can vary greatly in flavor depending on the artistic talent or preferences involved. * '''Pozole''' – Chicken or pork broth with hominy corn, spiced when served with oregano, lettuce, lemon juice, radish, chopped onion, dried ground chile and other ingredients such as chicken, pork, or even seafood, usually served with a side dish of tostadas, fried potato and fresh cheese tacos. Very fortifying. * '''Gorditas''' – corn patty stuffed with chicharron, chicken, cheese, etc. topped with cream, cheese and hot sauce. * '''Grillo''' – Grasshopper, usually cooked and placed inside another dish such as a quesadilla. It is frequently found in markets in the state of Morelos and other central Mexico states. This is not common in Mexico City. * '''Guacamole''' – crushed avocado sauce with green serrano chile, chopped red tomato and onion, lime juice, salt, and served with somewhat thick (1/8 inch) fried tortilla slices or "totopos". * '''Tostadas''' – fried flat tortilla topped with fried beans, lettuce, cream, fresh cheese, sliced red tomato and onion, hot sauce, and chicken or other main ingredient. Think a corn chip dippers, on low dose steroids, for salsas and as above. You do not usually get a plate of this automatically in many parts of Mexico as you would in the US, although they are starting to show up in resort areas that cater to US nationals automatically. * '''Huaraches''' – a bigger (think shoe-shaped) version of a gordita. * '''Sopes''' – corn patty topped with a wide variety of ingredients such as chicken, cheese, mashed beans, and various hot sauces. * '''Carnitas''' – deep fried pork meat served with a variety of salsa, to get them dry with less grease. * '''Chile en nogada''' – A big green Poblano chile with a beef or pork apple stuffing, covered with a white nut (usually walnut, known as ''nuez'') sauce and sprinkled with pomegranate seeds which happen to be red. The three colors represent the national flag and the dish is served nationwide around Mexican Independence Day (16 September). * '''Barbacoa''' – Sheep or goat meat cooked with maguey leaves in an oven made at a hole in the ground. Think BBQ heaven without the hickory smoke or catsup-based BBQ sauce. Served with condiments and salsas in corn tortilas and sometimes in a torta bread roll. * '''Sopa de Tortilla''' – tortilla chips soup usually of chicken broth, plain or with a touch of tomato flavor, and usually mild and not at all hot. Commonly served with diced avocado and fresh crumbled white cheese on top. * '''Chilaquiles''' – tortilla chips with a green tomatillo, or red tomato, or mild chili sauce, Usually served with chicken or eggs on top or within. Usually a mild dish. * '''Migas''' – is a typical dish in the center of the country which is a guajillo chile broth with soaked bread, which you can add the pork bones with meat or eggs. You may see a sign with '''"orden de tacos"'''. This means usually 5 pieces, if there is no other amount stated. The word ''orden'' is also used for other types of Mexican food. There is breakfast in McDonald's that you may not find in other countries. It includes:<br> • McMolletes<br> • McMuffin Huevo y Salchicha<br> • McMuffin a la Mexicana<br> • Hotcakes con Salchichas<br> • Desayuno Especial Mexicano<br> • McBurrito a la Mexicana for M$30 (Dec 2021)<br> Basic burgers you may not find in other countries during the day are for about M$30 (Dec 2021):<br> • Hamburguesa Gourmet<br> • Hamburguesa Especial con lechuga ==Drink== [[File:Venta de tequila en Tequila Jalisco México..JPG|thumbnail|Tequila store in [[Tequila]]]] Tap water is potable, but generally not recommended for drinking. Hotels usually give guests one (large) bottle of drinking water per room per night. Bottled water is also readily available in supermarkets and at tourist attractions. * Absinthe is legal in Mexico. * Tequila, distilled from Agave (a specific type of cactus) * Pulque, ferment made from Maguey * Mezcal, similar to tequila but distilled from Maguey * Raicilla, a type of mezcal made in Jalisco * Pox, whisky meets rum, distilled from grains and cane sugar, made in Chiapas * Tepache, ferment made from pineapple * Tuba, made from coconut palm tree [[File:Modelo Negra and Victoria beer bottles.jpg|thumb|A Mexican dark lager (Modelo Negra) and golden lager (Victoria)]] There are also several Mexican beers, most of which are available outside Mexico, these include Corona (popular, but not necessarily as overwhelmingly popular in Mexico as many foreigners think), Dos Equis (XX) and Modelo Especial. Lighter Mexican beers are often served with lime and salt, though many Mexicans do not drink beer in this fashion. In some places you will find beer served as a prepared drink called "Michelada" or simply "Chelada". The formula varies depending on the place, but it's usually beer mixed with lime juice and various sauces and spices on ice served in a salt rim glass. Spicy beer is available in supermarkets; try it, it will be an experience. Other variation called "Cubana" includes Clamato cocktail, soybean sauce, salt and a little bit of hot sauce. Mexico produces wine in several different areas, the most important of which is the [[Valle de Guadalupe]] in [[Baja California]], which accounts for more than 90% of Mexico's total wine production. The second largest wine region is in the Bajio state of [[Queretaro (state)|Queretaro]] centered on the town of [[Ezequiel Montes]]. Wine is also produced in the states of [[Sonora]], [[Coahuila]], and [[Guanajuato (state)|Guanajuato]]. Most Mexicans tend to prefer European or Chilean imports, but Mexican wines are becoming more popular as they continue to earn accolades in the press and in competitions. In the prestigious 2023 Concours Mundial de Bruxelles, the top point getter was Cenzontle Blanco from [[Valle de Guadalupe]], beating out thousands of wines from around the world. Non alcoholic beverages: * Chocolate * Atole * Horchata (rice based drink) * Agua de Jamaica (hibiscus iced tea, similar to karkadai in Egypt) * Licuados de fruta (fruit smoothies and milkshakes) * Champurrado (thick chocolate drink) * Refrescos (common sodas, generally sweet and made with cane sugar, not corn syrup as in the United States). [[File:Champurrado thenewplace sf.jpg|thumbnail|Champurrado]] The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18, but not strictly enforced. In many places, consumption of alcohol in public ("open container") is illegal and usually punishable by a day in jail. Be aware of waitresses and barmen, especially at night clubs. If you are not aware of your consumption and how much you already spent, they can add a few more drinks to your account. Some do this, not all. Alcoholmeters are widely used in driving roads If drinking, always have a designated driver. Driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage will result in 1 to 3 days in jail. Mexico, especially the southern state of Chiapas, produces excellent coffee. Café con leche, usually one part coffee to one part steamed milk, is very popular. Unfortunately, many places in Mexico that are not cafés serve Nescafe instant coffee, so you may have to search for the good coffee, but it's there. Mineral water is popular in many regions of Mexico. Topo Chico is the most widely available brand by a very wide margin. ==Learn== [[File:Flag of Mexico in Acapulco.jpg|thumbnail|Hornos Beach in Acapulco]] The most important Universities in Mexico include the '''UNAM''', ranked 73rd worldwide, and the best in Latin America. Its main campus is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Murals in the main campus were painted by some of the most recognized artists in Mexican history, such as Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros. '''IPN''' (Instituto Politécnico Nacional), '''ITESM''' (Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, located in Monterrey but with branch campuses in many other Mexican cities) the '''Iberoamerican University''' (Universidad Iberoamericana, part of the Jesuit University System) and '''Universidad Anahuac'''. [[File:Chichen Itza 21.JPG|thumbnail|Chichen Itza, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world]] Most of the government-funded universities on mayor cities (state capital) have short courses on history, gastronomy and cultural subjects, most of them are almost free. Other places are the "Casa de la Cultura", (house of culture) that are historical buildings used for cultural related activities (music concerts, theater, paint and other exhibits, they also have "talleres" (workshops). Most places have programs for foreigners to learn Spanish, or even study a whole degree. There are some other courses where you can learn traditional Mexican activities such as handcrafts. There are Spanish language schools throughout Mexico. The city with the most schools is Cuernavaca, with more than 50 schools. Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato also offer a number of schools to choose from. Prices vary; however, most schools are very reasonably priced. Many schools can arrange homestays with local Mexican families. ==Work== Working may require a work visa, which is difficult to get if you just want to freelance for a short time. Many important headquarters are located throughout the main cities of Mexico. Top Mexican corporations such as Televisa, Bimbo, Cemex, Telmex and Vitra are often willing to hire professionals who are native English speakers as much of their business is developed alongside North American corporations. Native English speakers can pick up work as English teachers. The upside is that English speakers with no knowledge of Spanish are appreciated, because they will force their students to practice English. The downside is that salaries are somewhat low. ==Sleep== [[File:Plazadeliberacion1.jpg|thumbnail|Plaza de liberación and the cathedral, Guadalajara]] Several hotel chains are available throughout Mexico, including Palace Resorts, Le Blanc Spa Resort, Best Western, Holiday Inn, CityExpress, Fiesta Inn, Fairmont, Hilton, Ritz, Camino Real, Marriott (Sheraton, W, Westin, Four Points) and many others. Rates have risen considerably, though most are still reasonable compared to similar U.S. or European hotels. Chain accommodations are usually clean and comfortable, good for business travelers, but not necessarily for those wanting to experience Mexico itself. There are also many all-inclusive resorts for those visiting the major beach destinations. Boutique hotels are found all over the country; price range varies but all of them are rich in Mexican traditions, elegance and charm, the perfect way to experience the cultural heritage of each state. A great source of information is Melba Levick's book ''Mexicasa,'' found in many libraries and online bookstores. Otherwise an authentic accommodation can usually be found by asking locals or gringos, especially in the smaller towns. Smaller hotels and motels along the roadside may not be safe or comfortable. If you are unsure about conditions or the safety of the room, ask to see it before paying. This will not be considered rude. Decent hotels for a low budget are usually found around the central bus station of a town. If you are going to stay at cheaper hotels in cooler areas in the winter consider bringing extra clothes, an electric blanket or a sleeping bag, as there is power, but no heat. And although it may get quite hot by afternoon outside, adobe and cement are like fridges. An electric tea kettle is also a good idea, as hot water might not be available when you want it. There is a large backpacker culture in Mexico, and there are many hostels offering dorm accommodation and private rooms. You can expect to pay M$100-300 (Nov 2021) for a night in a dorm, sometimes including breakfast. Hostels are a fantastic place to share information with fellow travelers, and you can often find people who have been to your future destinations. If you're travelling with children, use a plastic case (with wheels and a handle) as luggage, and it can be used as a bathtub for the kids if necessary. Budget hotels rarely, if ever, have bathtubs. ==Stay safe== [[File:Policia turistica ciudad mexico.jpg|thumbnail|Mounted tourist police, Mexico City]] {{cautionbox | Some governments advise that you '''should not travel''' to the following states: [[Guerrero]], [[Michoacán]], [[Colima (state)|Colima]], [[Sinaloa]], [[Tamaulipas]] and [[Zacatecas (state)|Zacatecas]]. These governments recommend against traveling to the six states mentioned above because of high levels of crime, unreliable law enforcement assistance, and violence related to drug trafficking. The Mexican government makes a considerable effort to protect visitors to major tourist destinations, and resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico generally do not see the levels of drug-related violence and crime reported in the border region and in areas along major trafficking routes. | us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html | uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mexico | canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mexico | australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/americas/mexico | lastedit=2023-12-15}} Mexico has a reputation for being a dangerous country — a reputation that's not entirely unwarranted — but the average traveller should not be too overly concerned or cautious of their surroundings. A lot of the crime occurs between those involved in the drug trade or organised crime. (See [[#Drug traffic issues|drug traffic issues]] for more information) In most cities, location is very important as security changes from place to place. Areas close to downtown (''centro'') are safer to walk at night, especially on the "Plaza", "Zócalo" or "Jardín" (main square) and areas nearby. Stay in populated areas, avoid poor neighborhoods, especially at night, and don't walk there at any time if you are alone. Vicious beatings have been reported at resorts by people who have travelled alone, so stay alert for any suspicious-looking individual. If you wish to visit one of the slums, you should only go as part of a guided tour with a reputable guide or tour company. Political violence in Chiapas and Oaxaca has abated, and is far less of a threat than drug-related crime. However, Mexican authorities do not look approvingly on foreigners who participate in demonstrations (even peaceful ones) or voice support for groups such as the Ejército Zapatista de Liberación Nacional and its leader, Subcomandante Marcos, even if their images and slogans are commonly sold on t-shirts and caps in markets. Do not wave cash or credit cards around. Use them discreetly and put them away as quickly as possible. The nationwide emergency number is '''911'''. Although Mexico has one of the largest police forces in the world, systemic corruption and low salaries often restrict the capabilities of law enforcement. Enlisting the help of the police almost always requires solid Spanish-language skills. Beggars are not usually a threat, but you will find lots in urban areas. Avoid being surrounded by them, as some can [[Pickpockets|pickpocket]] your goods. Giving away two pesos quickly can get you out of such troubles (but may also attract other beggars). Most poor and homeless Mexicans prefer to sell trinkets, gum, sing, or provide some meager service than beg outright. Larger cities, such as Guadalajara and Mexico City, are safer than most places in Mexico. However, caution is still recommended. ===Drug crimes=== [[File:Mexican States with mafia conflicts.png|thumb|States with the most conflict, marked in red (2010)]] Former president Felipe Calderon waged war on the drug cartels, and in turn, they waged war against the government (and more often, among each other). Some Mexican northern and border cities such as Tijuana, Nogales, Nuevo Laredo, Chihuahua, Culiacán, Durango, and Juárez can be dangerous if you are not familiar with them, especially at night. Most crime in the northern cities is related to the drug trade and police corruption. However, since law enforcement figures are often overwhelmed battling drug-related activities, many northern border towns that were somewhat dangerous to begin with are now a hotbed for criminals to act with impunity. Ciudad Juárez, in particular, bears the brunt of this violence, and with nearly a fourth of Mexico's overall murders, travel there requires special attention. Away from the northern states, cartel related violence is centered in specific areas, including the Pacific Coast states of Michoacán and Guerrero. However, exercise caution anywhere, especially at night or in high crime areas. Tourists and other travellers are of no interest to the drug cartels. Many popular tourist destinations like Oaxaca, Guanajuato, Los Cabos, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Cancún, Mérida, and Guadalajara are largely unaffected by this, simply because there are no borders there. Ciudad Juárez is a primary battleground in the drug war, and while foreign travellers are not often targeted, the presence of two warring cartels, many small opportunistic gangs, and armed police and soldiers has created a chaotic situation to say the least. As a rule of thumb, the further away you are from the border, and the closer you are to Mexico City, the safer you'll be. Many people go to Mexico City to seek refuge from drug-related violence as many politicians and military personnel are there. Consumption of drugs should be prohibited, although the problem of illegal medicine is serious in Mexico, this is still illegal (but consumption of drugs like cannabis or having a small amount are legal or decriminalised). Also, this can let you to be in trouble with gang. The army also sets up random checkpoints throughout all major highways in search of narcotics and weapons. Drug consumption is also opposed by a large percentage of the population. ===Advice for the beach=== ====[[Jellyfish]]==== If you see Portuguese man o' war (''Physalia physalis''), be far away from it. If a person is unluckily contacted with the jellyfish, use tweezers to remove the jellyfish's stingers, then go to hospital. ==== Stingray stings ==== Choose a place with hot water if you can, because the heat deactivates the poison. ==== [[Sunburns]] ==== Bring only reef-safe sunscreen if going to beaches because you might not find it available in some areas. ==== Riptides ==== Very dangerous, particularly during and after storms. ===Public transportation=== When in major cities &ndash; especially Mexico City &ndash; it is better to play it safe with taxis. The best options are to phone a taxi company, to request that your hotel or restaurant call a taxi for you, or to pick up a taxi from an established post (''Taxi de Sitio''). Also, taxis can be stopped in the middle of the street, which is okay for most of the country, but particularly unsafe in Mexico City. As chaotic as it might be sometimes, the [https://www.metro.cdmx.gob.mx/ Metro] is the best way to move around in Mexico City: it's cheap (M$5 for a ticket as of Feb 02, 2020), safe, has a large network covering almost anywhere you'd want to go in the city and it's extremely fast, compared to any on-street transportation, since it doesn't have to bear with the constant traffic jams. If you've never been in a crowded subway, avoid peak hours (usually from 06:00–09:00 and 17:00–20:00) and do your homework: check first which line (''línea'') and station (''estación'') you want to go to and the address of the place you're trying to reach. Your hotel can give you this information, and maps of the subway system are available on the internet and at the stations. Most stations also have maps of the vicinity. Avoid taking the subway at late hours of the night, but during the day many stations are patrolled by police officers and the subway is safer than taking the public bus. Your major concern in the subway is the pickpockets, so keep your important belongings and wallets in a safe place. A word of caution for people who are used to European or major American subway systems that operate around the clock: even in Mexico City, the last subway leaves around midnight, with service only resuming in the early morning. Taxis are priced accordingly, and you should keep your wits about you when moving around in the middle of the night. If you are travelling by bus, do not put your valuables in your big bag in the storage compartment of the bus. If the police or the military controls the luggage, they might take out what they want, especially in night buses, when passengers are most likely asleep. The use of a money belt (worn underneath the clothes and out of sight) is highly recommended. ===Driving=== * All distances on the signboards and speed limits are in metric units. * Gas is likewise sold in metric units and far cheaper than in Europe (and still a bit cheaper than in the U.S.) [[File:15-07-21-Mexico-Stadtzentrum-RalfR-N3S 9738.jpg|thumb|Downtown Mexico City]] If driving in from the [[USA]], always purchase Mexican liability insurance (legal defense coverage recommended) before crossing the border or immediately after crossing. When you are paying for your temporary import permit (for going beyond border areas), often in the same building there are several stalls selling Mexican auto insurance. Even if your American (or Canadian, etc.) insurance covers your vehicle in Mexico, it '''cannot''' (by Mexican law) cover liability (e.g., hitting something or injuring someone). You will probably spend time in a Mexican jail if you have an accident without it. And even if your own insurance does (in theory) provide liability coverage in Mexico—you'll be filing your claim from behind bars! Don't risk it, get Mexican auto insurance. Never drive above the speed limit or run stop signs/red lights, as Mexican police will use any excuse to pull over tourists and give you a ticket. In some cities, the police can not give you a ticket, but they might warn you. The fine for speeding could be as much as US$100 (M$1870)<!--shouldn't we use the exact peso amount instead of a rounded USD amount?-->, depending on the city. As of April 2011, police across the country are cracking down on drunk driving, particularly in Mexico City, the larger cities, and the beach resorts. There are random checkpoints throughout the country in which every driver has to stop and take an automated inebriation test. If you fail, you will end up in a Mexican prison. You will mostly find beggars and windshield cleaners at some traffic lights; having your windows closed at all times is especially recommendable in some areas of Mexico City. The windshield cleaners will try to clean yours: a strong and firm "no" is suggested. ===Natural disasters=== Natural disasters in Mexico include [[hurricanes]] and [[earthquakes]]. [[Mexico City]] in particular is located in a seismically active area. === Firearms === Every year a few U.S. tourists run afoul of Mexico's strict gun laws. '''Bringing guns into Mexico is illegal in most circumstances''', and this includes guns kept for personal protection on private boats. If you want to bring a firearm, see [[Recreational shooting#Mexico]]. === Hiking === Many trails are unmarked in real life, even if they are present at OpenStreetMap or a hiking app. If a local rule says to do a trail with a guide - it's much better to go with the guide, the route will be dangerous and easy to get lost. ==Stay healthy== Some parts of Mexico are known for '''[[travelers' diarrhea]]''', often called "Montezuma's Revenge" (Venganza de Moctezuma). The reason for this is not so much the spicy food but the contamination of the '''[[water]] supply''' in some of the poorer zones in Mexico. In most of the small towns that are less industrialized, only the poorest Mexicans will drink tap water. The best policy is to only drink bottled or purified water, both of which are readily available. Be sure to specify ''bottled'' water in restaurants and avoid ice (which is often not made from purified water). Just like in the US, in most major Mexican cities the water is purified at the cities' water company. In most restaurants in these poor zones, the only water served comes from large jugs of purified water. If you get sick, visit your local clinic as soon as possible. There is medicine available that will counter the bacteria. Medicine in urban areas is highly developed, public hospitals are just as good as public hospitals in US, and just as the American public hospitals, they are always full. It's recommended going to private hospitals for faster service. Before traveling to rural areas of Mexico, it might be a good idea to obtain '''anti-malarial medications''' from your health care provider. It is strongly advised that the traveler be sure that any meats they are consuming have been thoroughly cooked due to an increasing rate of '''roundworm''' infections, particularly in the Acapulco area. Along with the risk for malaria, mosquitoes have also been known to carry the '''West Nile virus'''. Be sure to bring an effective insect repellent, preferably one that contains the ingredient DEET. The rate of '''AIDS/HIV''' infection in Mexico is lower than in the US, France and most Latin American nations. However, if you plan on having sex, be sure that you use a latex condom to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading the virus. As with any western location, cases of '''hantavirus pulmonary syndrome''' have been reported throughout Mexico. This is an acute, rare (but often fatal) illness for which there is no known cure. The virus is believed to be present in animal feces, particularly feces from members of the rodent family. Therefore, do not wander into animal dens and be especially careful when entering enclosed spaces that are not well ventilated and lack sunlight. Vaccination against '''Hepatitis A & B''' and '''Typhoid fever''' is recommended. If you are bitten by an animal, assume that the animal was carrying '''rabies''' and seek medical attention immediately for treatment. In remote areas, carry a first aid kit, aspirin, and other related items that are sold without medical prescription. ==Respect== [[File:MojigangaSMA002.jpg|thumb|Festival in [[San Miguel de Allende]]]] Mexicans have a somewhat relaxed sense of time so it's vital to be patient. Arriving half an hour late is common and should not be taken in a negative light. When anyone, even a total stranger, sneezes, you always say "¡salud!" ("bless you!" or more literally, "your health!"): otherwise, it is considered rude. In rural areas, particularly in the Mexican heartland (Jalisco, Zacatecas, Aguascalientes, etc.), the even more pious "Jesús te bendiga" (May Jesus bless you) will follow a sneeze. Attitudes towards LGBT travellers can be hostile in more rural states, but [[LGBT Mexico City|Mexico City is very LGBT friendly]] as are popular beach resort areas such as [[Cancun]], [[Puerto Vallarta]], and [[Acapulco]]. By court order, all states in Mexico either allow the performance of same-sex marriages, or recognize such marriages when performed in other states. Same-sex marriage is performed in Mexico City and in the states of Aguascalientes, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Campeche, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Colima, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Morelos, Nayarit, Nuevo León, Oaxaca, Puebla, Quintana Roo, San Luis Potosí, Sinaloa, Sonora and Tlaxcala as well as in certain municipalities in Guerrero and Zacatecas. It is pending publication in Querétaro, and being prepared for legislation in Yucatán. Southern Mexico City is the best place in terms of tolerance. When entering churches, always take off any sunglasses, caps or hats. Wearing shorts is rarely a problem, but still wear a sweatshirt or sweater to your waist to avoid showing too much skin, which could be disrespectful in such places. However, away from the beaches, or northern areas, shorts are very rarely worn by Mexicans on the street and thus will attract more attention to you and make you stand out as a foreigner. === Sensitive issues === '''Show respect to Mexico's laws'''. Although corruption and bribery have long been around, a visitor behaving in a way that implies that Mexico is a lawless country is considered disrespectful. Offering a bribe to an official may get you into trouble. '''You are unlikely to cause offence by having a discussion about local politics, economics and history'''; Mexicans consider them good conversational topics and are more than happy to delight you with such discussions. This said, sensitive subjects like illegal immigration to the US, crime, or the drug war are likely to arouse strong emotions. Mexicans are well aware of their country's problems and would like to forget about them once in a while. Also, you might be surprised at how much Mexicans know about the politics of your country – especially the times in its history when they feel your country has screwed Mexico over (which applies especially for Spain, France and the U.S.). That said, Mexican history tends to be viewed as a series of shades of grey — there are those who feel the need to extol economic growth under Porfirio Díaz, just like there are those who point out anti-democratic tendencies under Benito Juarez. '''A lot of Mexicans do not have a favourable opinion of the Spanish Empire''' and the things they've done in the past. They feel that many of Mexico's problems are rooted in what the Spanish brought over. This said, there are no feelings of resentment towards Spain and Spanish people. '''Try not to assume the worst in people'''. Mexico may have a lot of social and political problems, but that does not mean that everyone is alike. '''The great majority of the population is and traditionally has been Roman Catholic''', and there is still a strong following of this faith among Mexicans from all socioeconomic backgrounds. However, there are sizeable Protestant, Evangelicial, Pentecostal communities (in part due to US missionary activity) and the country also has one of the largest Jehovah's Witnesses communities. The irreligious are a small minority and they are found mostly among college-educated urban dwellers of the middle and upper middle class. Saying anything that hints at atheism or agnosticism may simply be shrugged off, or could incite lengthy discussions or at worst, attempts at proselytizing. As a rule of thumb, try not to have religious discussions with people you're not well acquainted with. === Cultural notes === While overt racism may not be apparent, as a general rule, wealth and social status are historically tied to European ancestry and skin color. Mexican society is sharply divided by social class, with the rich, middle class, and poor often living very separate lives, and can have very distinct cultures. Social practices or tastes of one social group may not be shared by all classes. Clubs, bars, and restaurants may cater largely to one crowd or another, and a wealthier person or tourist may feel out of place or received unwanted attention in a working class cantina; a poor looking person may be blatantly refused service or get unfriendly stares at an exclusive establishment. There are many words in the country according to ethnic background: * Do not be offended to be called a "güero(a)" (blonde) and its diminutive form "güerito(a)" (blondie), as its a common way for the average Mexican citizen to refer mostly to Caucasian people, including white Mexicans. The words "gringo" and its synonym "gabacho" are used regardless of the actual nationality of the tourists and they are not meant as offensive. Actually, they are often used as terms of endearment. * If you are East Asian, you will be referred to as "Chino(a)" (Chinese) and its diminutive form "chinito(a)" regardless of whether you are Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, etc. Exceptions are in the capital, Mexicali, and in Monterrey, where a decent-sized Korean community does exist. * If you are black, "negro(a)" or "negrito(a)" may seem harsh, especially if you are from the US, but it is not a swear word. Although there are few black people in Mexico in many regions of the country (except in on the east and west coasts in the south), Mexicans, especially the younger generations, are not hateful. In fact, a revolutionary who later became the second president was a man of mixed European and African descent, Vicente Guerrero. * Historically, all Middle Easterners were referred to as "turcos" (even if they were from Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, etc.) [[File:Catedral de Guadañajara.JPG|thumb|Guadalajara cathedral]] === Other things to watch out for === If you try to use Spanish to address people, be careful about the use of "tú" (informal, friendly; the verb for calling someone "tú" is tutear) and "usted" (formal, respectful) forms. Using "tú" can be demeaning to people, since this is the form normally used for addressing children or close friends. Use "usted" unless you are sure you can use "tú"; doing so may perhaps seem a shade old-fashioned, but doing otherwise can be pretty rude and embarrassing in some situations. Always use the "usted" form to a law enforcement officer (or other person of authority), even if they may use the "tú" form to talk to you. Otherwise, you can say "tú" to children under 16, to people who genuinely are your friends and to persons who call you by your first name or explicitly have told you to do so. People address each other depending on their social status, age and friendship. To refer to a woman, always call her "señorita" (Miss) unless you are sure that she is married, then you call her "señora" (Mrs). When talking to an older man, use "señor" irrespective of his marital status. If you want to call a waiter, address him as "joven" which means "young man". You may call someone by his professional title ("ingeniero", "arquitecto", "doctor", "oficial", etc.). Actually, Mexican people will use the "tú" and "usted", "first name" or "surname" depending on their relationship, and the code is not easy to learn. While the word "güey" is equivalent to "dude" or "mate" among young people, it is still considered extremely vulgar by the older generation. This abrasive term of endearment is used only between people who have achieved a certain level of trust, so avoid using it. In Mexico, "estúpido" has a far, far worse connotation than "stupid" in English. Due to the highly matriarchal nature of Mexican culture, the combination of words "tu madre" (your mother) is cacophonous and taken offensively by residents, regardless of age or gender. To refer to somebody's mother, remember to replace it with "su señora madre" (roughly "your respected mother") in formal situations or the sweeter "tu mamá" in informal ones. Never, ever use strong language when talking to a woman. You may see displays of male chauvinism. It is falling out of favor, but it is still seen and mostly tolerated in small towns, as well as cities that receive considerable amounts of rural migrants. It can be defined as a male's strong desire for and skill of the domination and imposition of will, on a wife, sister, or any close female. It can also be identified by a strong desire to prove courage through showy bravado and status through a following of yes-men and henchmen. While it is usually not directed towards visitors, it can be in a variety of strengths. It is best to pretend not to notice it and move on. Another type of ''machismo'', which perhaps stems out of the same desires but does not carry any of the antisocial connotations, is male courteousness towards women. This is manifested in standing up when a lady enters a room, opening or holding a door, conceding preference or rights of way, giving up a seat, offering a hand when stepping down from a steep step, etc. It is generally reserved for older women, or women of great power, merit, and social stature. Rejecting these types of friendly gestures is considered arrogant or rude. ==Connect== Cell phones are the most convenient, and usually most inexpensive, way to talk. Before going to Mexico, call your cell phone provider and verify that you have international roaming enabled (and make sure you know what charges you should expect, for domestic and international voice calls and for data, since you will want to use your maps and Uber apps). You can make international calls free if you have an app like WhatsApp or Telegram and connect to Wi-fi before using it. Data rates can be high for cell phone users, but you can manage them by turning off data in your phone's settings except for when you actively want to use an app. If you're going to be in Mexico for an extended period of time, it might be cheaper to use Mexican carriers, either by buying a SIM card or a cheap throwaway phone. If you have an unlocked GSM phone, you can buy a prepaid SIM card in Mexico. The most expensive provider Telcel provides good coverage throughout the country. A SIM card for the Telcel brand amigo express is for M$29 (Nov 2021) e.g., in an Oxxo store. The first recharge must be at least M$50 (Nov 2021). The offers are amongst others:<br> • M$50: 400MB for 7 days (Nov 2021)<br> • M$100: 1,3GB for 15 days (Nov 2021)<br> You can see all rates and recharge [https://www.telcel.com/personas/telefonia/amigo/paquetes-end/paquetes-amigo-sin-limite here]. Recharging Telcel can be also done in an Oxxo. Cheaper providers unfortunately may not be worth the hassle due to slow internet and unreliable connection. Using a Mexican SIM card is often far cheaper than what hotels will charge you for outgoing calls and incoming calls may be free under certain schemes. Mexico operates on the same GSM frequency as the United States, 1900&nbsp;MHz. There's also 4G LTE, with 5G expected to be deployed in the future. Many of which are the same frequencies as in the US. There is a wireless internet connection in almost every restaurant in the big cities. If you're staying for over a week and don't have an unlocked phone, it might be a good idea to buy a cheap handset and a prepaid card. Some areas have only a few internet cafes; in others, they are plentiful. Most of the internet cafes offer calls to the US for a better rate than a payphone, usually via VoIP. You can call from public phones using ''tarjetas ladatel'' (prepaid telephone cards), bought at magazine stalls. Cards can be purchased in M$30, 50 or 100 denominations. The rate to call the US is roughly equivalent to US$0.50 per minute. Beware these are different than tarjetas ''amigo, viva,'' or ''unefon'' (these are only for cellphones). Ladatel cards are becoming increasingly difficult to find and use because public pay phones are an endangered species. While they worked great in 2002, they're seldom useful in 2022. Cell phones are the way to go today. ==Go next== ===To Belize=== There are bus services available from [[Chetumal]] to [[Belmopan]]. ===To Guatemala=== This route is not used by many and still has a touch of adventure: Over Tenosique, La Palma (near Tenosique), by boat on the river Rio San Pedro to [[El Naranjo]] in [[Guatemala]]. Stay firm when negotiating over the price. Absolutely important: Make sure you get your passport stamped before you leave El Naranjo, or you might catch one of the rare buses back and take a walk through the jungle, as the emigration office is partway up the river between the Mexican border and the village. ===To the United States=== The U.S. generally requires a passport for entry. A few express ID cards and trusted traveler cards are also acceptable. U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking entry or reentry by land or sea may use an Enhanced Driver License in place of a passport. U.S. permanent residents need their permanent resident card and may need the passport from their home country. Foreign nationals entering the United States without a permanent resident stamp, including those on the Visa Waiver Program, typically receive an I-94 Arrival-Departure Record or I-94W Visa Waiver Arrival-Departure Record upon arrival in the United States. So long as the I-94 has not expired, you can use it to re-enter the United States with your passport; however, if you hand it in upon exit, you will need to obtain a new card if your visa allows another entry or, if on the Visa Waiver Program, pay a fee of about US$6 to reenter the United States. Unless you are not going to return to the United States, '''keep your I-94 when leaving the [[United States]]''' or you will have a difficult time getting back in, and if your visa is limited to a certain number of entries, you may need to use another entry. Visa Waiver participants cannot reset the 90-day counter unless they leave North America, so ducking into Mexico will not allow you another 90 days. However, it can be reset by travelling, for example, to any Central American country or to Colombia. {{geo|21|-100|zoom=5}} {{isPartOf|North America}} {{outlinecountry}} {{related|Driving_in_Mexico}} 9hptzuch095fnlguov4j4tfrkonpdpg 0 22141 5091227 5083362 2025-07-11T07:10:05Z DaGizza 162256 /* Stay safe */ 5091227 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mexico Centro Banner.jpg|pgname=Centro Histórico|caption=The Zócalo as seen from the rooftop of the Holiday Inn|unesco_whs=yes|unesco_ich=yes}} [[File:Catedral de México.jpg|thumb|300px|The Cathedral]] The old city center or ''Centro Histórico'' of [[Mexico City]], around the Plaza de la Constitución, is an area clearly different from the rest of the city. Its colonial and European architecture and narrow cobblestone streets set it apart from the rest of Mexico City. It has an enormous number of stores, street vendors, and especially crowds. Without a doubt, this area is one of the most popular areas in Mexico City. ==Understand== [[File:Organ Grinder in Centro - Mexico City - Mexico (45241335795).jpg|thumb|Organ grinder in Mexico City's Centro Historico]] The Centro Histórico, the original foundation of Mexico City, was built on the ruins of Tenochtitlan, the Aztec empire capital established in 1325 and destroyed by the Spanish in 1521. It contains a lot of old buildings that date back to the 16th century. Due to its importance, it was designated as a {{unesco}} in 1987. The designated historic area comprises more than 9,000 buildings, almost a quarter of which are historically significant structures. While many of the buildings are from the [[Colonial Mexico|colonial era]], many others were significant during the [[Mexican War of Independence]], the [[Post-Independence Mexico|Post-Independence era]], or even opulent art deco buildings from the time of the [[Mexican Revolution]]. ===Organ grinders=== The streets of the Centro Historico often resound with the nostalgic sound of organ grinder, cranking away on their historic instruments that have typically been handed down through generations of grinders. The tradition began more than 130 years ago, during the [[Post-Independence Mexico|Porfiriato era]]. According to local lore, Porfirio Diaz wanted Mexico to emulate European traditions, one of which was the sound of street music in Berlin coming from a seemingly endless number of organ grinders. The organ grinders adopted to the khaki uniform style of Diaz's soldiers and the people of Mexico enjoyed the sounds of the small organs as they strolled downtown streets. [[File:Dancer, Mexico City (2105531959).jpg|thumb|Aztec dancers at the Zocalo in Centro Historico]] Organ grinders are considered part of the city's intangible culture. Although they can be found in cities across Mexico, it's in the capital where most still ply their trade, particularly in Centro Historico. The tradition is slowly dying though. Fewer organ grinders walk the streets than they once did. Youngsters rarely want to follow in their fathers' footsteps and new organs are almost unheard of since most of the [[Musical instruments|instruments]] were manufactured in Germany, which hasn't exported the organs since World War II. If you hear the quaint sound of a street organ, understand that you are hearing a tradition with more than 130 years behind it. If you appreciate it, throw a few pesos in the hat of the organ grinder. He's working for tips! ===Aztec dancers=== Traditional Aztec dancers are a fixture in the Centro Historico, especially in the Zocalo between the Catedral Metropolitano and the Templo Mayor. The dancers are called ''concheros'', and while their dances are not necessarily based on oral tradition passed down through the local indigenous community, they take their dancing seriously and try their best to learn as much as they can about instruments, music, costumes, dances, and astronomical and religious events that mattered to the Aztecs, so that what you see and hear is as close to an authentic Aztec cultural experience as most tourists are likely to experience. Watch, appreciate, and tip the performers! ==Get in== {{infobox|Bike Day|Every Sunday Avenida Reforma is closed to motor vehicles due to "bike" day (confined streets for bicycle use only). It is strongly advised to avoid driving that brings you close to Avenida Reforma. If you are staying at any of the hotels in this area and have a flight scheduled on Sunday, it is advised to allow enough time to get out of the area if you're using a taxi. An alternative to get in and out of the area is the Metro (Subway).}} ===By Metro=== This is probably the best way to reach the Centro Histórico, however, all the stations in the area are consistently crowded, so be prepared and alert for pickpockets. There are various Metro lines that connect the Centro Histórico with the rest of the city. * Line '''1''' (pink): {{marker|type=go|name=Pino Suarez|lat=19.4259|long=-99.1330}}, {{marker|type=go|name=Isabel La Católica|lat=19.4263|long=-99.1378}} and {{marker|type=go|name=Salto del Agua|lat=19.4268|long=-99.1424}} stations. * Line '''2''' (blue): '''Pino Suarez''', {{marker|type=go|name=Zocalo|lat=19.43228|long=-99.13233}} (your best choice for direct access), {{marker|type=go|name=Allende|lat=19.4355|long=-99.1369}}, {{marker|type=go|name=Bellas Artes|lat=19.4359|long=-99.1406}}, {{marker|type=go|name=Hidalgo|lat=19.4372|long=-99.1468}} and {{marker|type=go|name=Revolucion|lat=19.4390|long=-99.1539}} stations. * Line '''3''' (light green): '''Hidalgo''', {{marker|type=go|name=Juárez|lat=19.4331|long=-99.1477}} and {{marker|type=go|name=Balderas|lat=19.4273|long=-99.1490}} stations. * Line '''8''' (dark green): {{marker|type=go|name=Garibaldi|lat=19.4436|long=-99.1391}}, '''Bellas Artes''', {{marker|type=go|name=San Juan de Letrán|lat=19.4313|long=-99.1413}} and '''Salto del Agua''' stations. ===By Turibus=== The hop-in hop-off double-decker bus makes a stop just north of the Zócalo in Monte de Piedad street in the west side of the cathedral. The one-day pass costs M$140 (M$160 for English version of the excursion – do not forget to ask for your headphone!) ===By Metrobús=== '''Line 4''' (orange) of the Metrobús system has two branches that ride through the Centro Histórico. Both branches run from the {{marker|type=go|name=Estación Buenavista|lat=19.44623|long=-99.15179|image=Estacion Buenavista 13.JPG}} (''Buenavista train station'') to the {{marker|type=go|name=Estación San Lázaro|lat=19.43077|long=-99.11496|image=Estacion San Lazaro 02.jpg}} (''San Lazáro station'') adjacent to the East Bus Terminal (TAPO). In both branches there are a few specially-marked buses that continue beyond San Lazáro to Mexico City's airport, serving both terminals. Buses going to or coming from the airport charge M$30 instead of the regular Metrobús fare (M$6), and you must have a travel card which can be purchased in 7-Elevens and in machines if you can find them (the one at the airport are near the exits). ===By train=== Commuter trains from communities in [[Mexico State|Estado de Mexico]] provide fast transport to the heart of the city. The ''Tren Suburbano'' routes end at '''Estacion Buenavista''', which is also the terminus of Metro Line B and a major Metrobus stop with buses traveling along Av. Insurgentes. ===By trolley bus=== The Trolley Bus rides along Eje Central Avenue. Ask the driver to drop you off at Madero street. ===By car=== This is the least recommended way to get around Centro Histórico since the streets are always jammed with hundreds of cars especially during weekdays. Many downtown streets are closed to vehicles on Sunday when bicycling is encouraged (free loaner bikes on Paseo de la Reforma). Most streets are one-way only and many are permanently closed to car traffic. If you dare to enter the area by car, you can do so from the west through Reforma and turning right at Avenida Juárez, or if you're coming from the south, you can reach the Centro Historico through Calzada de Tlalpan which later becomes Avenida 20 de Noviembre. There are several parking lots in the area (valet service) that charge M$14 an hour. A non-valet but expensive {{marker|name=parking lot|lat=19.43474|long=-99.14196}} is available at Bellas Artes. ==Get around== {{mapframe|19.433| -99.1358235|zoom=15|name=The middle of the centro}} ===On foot=== The best way to get around the Centro Histórico is definitely by foot. All tourist attractions are within walking distance. Because of traffic and the distance between metro stops, walking is generally the fastest way to explore the area. ===By tourist trolley=== This trolley (in Spanish Tranvia Turístico) departs from Avenida Juarez 66, between the Alameda and the Palacio de Bellas Artes. The ride lasts 45 minutes around many interesting spots in the area. Operating hours daily 10:00-17:00. ===By pedicab=== There are a few pedicabs that can carry you within the Centro Histórico. ==See== ===Historic sites=== [[File:Plaza de la Constitución desde el Edificio de Gobierno.jpg|thumb|Plaza de la Constitución (''Zócalo'')]] [[File:Recinto Templo Mayor.JPG|thumb|Templo Mayor of Tenochtitlan]] [[File:Palacio Nacional Murals view.JPG|thumb|Diego Rivera murals at the Palacio Nacional]] [[File:Palacio de Iturbide.jpg|thumb|Palacio de Iturbide]] * {{see | name=Plaza de la Constitución | alt=El Zócalo | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.43267 | long=-99.13317 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Zócalo | image=Plaza de la Constitución desde el Edificio de Gobierno.jpg | wikidata=Q1348507 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=Measuring 240m long on either side, the ''Zócalo'' is one of the largest squares in the world. It is flanked by the Metropolitan Cathedral and ''Sagrario'' to the north, and the National Palace to the east, as well as a number of other historic buildings. A huge Mexican flag occupies the center, which is ceremoniously lowered and re-raised each day at 18:00. A wide variety of events may be hosted here, including concerts, demonstrations or other more typical social gatherings. On New Year's Day, practitioners of Mexico's indigenous religions gather to bless believers for the coming year; Mexican independence is celebrated in the plaza on 15 and 16 September. During the month of December, through the miracle of modern refrigeration, the entire Zocalo is transformed into an ice skating rink. }} * {{see | name=Templo Mayor | alt= | url=https://www.templomayor.inah.gob.mx/ | email=difusion.mntm@inah.gob.mx | address=C/ Seminario 8 | lat=19.43483 | long=-99.13104 | directions=north-east corner of the Zócalo | phone=+52 55 4040 5600 ext 412930 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 09:00-17:00 | price=M$59, free for children under 12 and students with valid ID | wikipedia=Templo Mayor | image=Recinto Templo Mayor.JPG | wikidata=Q774021 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=The site of the main Aztec temple of Tenochtitlan, it was destroyed by Spanish conquistadors in 1521, who then promptly erected the Cathedral roughly over it – but not quite. Centuries later, nearly completely forgotten, its actual location was discovered by accident in 1978 when electrical workers found a piece of a large stone disc depicting the goddess Coyolxauhqui. This sets off a few furious years of archaeological digging, resulting in a rather surprising (and extremely significant) discovery that nested underneath the original Aztec temple was six distinct smaller, older temples. You can see each layer walking through the dig site. }} ** {{see | name=Museo del Templo Mayor | alt= | url=http://www.inah.gob.mx/paseos/templomayor/ | email= | address= | lat=19.43489 | long=-99.13029 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Coyolxauhqui 4095977415 b89d64f008-2.jpg | wikidata=Q3330387 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=This excellent four-story museum was designed by Mexican architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, and built in 1987 to showcase the many artifacts found on the site. Highlights include the Coyolxauhqui disc as well as the many thousands of offerings found during the still-ongoing excavation. }} * {{see | name=Palacio Nacional | alt=National Palace | url= | email= | address=Plaza de la Constitución s/n | lat=19.43254 | long=-99.13158 | directions=east side of the Zócalo | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 09:00-17:00 | price=Free admission with photo ID (national driver's license is acceptable) | wikipedia=National Palace (Mexico) | image=MexCity-palacio 1.jpg | wikidata=Q1517884 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=The palace in its current form began construction in 1693 and served as the Palace of the Viceroy of New Spain until the Mexican War of Independence, when it became the executive seat of the President (though today it is no longer his official residence). The walls inside the palace display murals by Diego Rivera depicting the history of Mexico from the pre-Columbian age to the Mexican Revolution. You can also visit the ''Recinto Legislativo'', a replica of the first Mexican Congress, and tour the home of Benito Juárez. Tours in English are free; ask for one at the information desk. }} * {{see | name=Palacio de Iturbide | alt=Palacio de Cultura Banamex / Palace of Iturbide | url=http://fomentoculturalbanamex.org/ | email= | address=Francisco I Madero 17 | lat=19.43361 | long=-99.13897 | directions= | phone=+52 55 1226 0004 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00-19:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=Palace of Iturbide | image=Palacio de Iturbide.jpg | wikidata=Q130898 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=One of the oldest buildings in town, built in the late 16th century, it was first home to the local nobility and later the residence of Mexican Emperor Agustin de Iturbide. The building is owned today by the Cultural Trust of Banco Nacional de Mexico, the Mexican branch of Citibank. }} * {{see | name=Plaza de la Fundación | alt=Plaza de Tenochtitlán | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.43124 | long=-99.13244 | directions=Pino Suarez and Venustiano Carranza | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This place is allegedly where the Aztecs found the eagle eating a snake on top of a cactus (nopal), the divine sign of the gods to settle down and establish the city of Tenochtitlán. It features a sculpture by Juan Olaguibel made in 1970. }} * {{see | name=Nacional Monte de Piedad | alt= | url= | email= | address=Monte de Piedad and Cinco de Mayo | lat=19.4344 | long=-99.1345 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 08:30-18:00, Sa 08:30-15:30 | price= | wikipedia=Nacional Monte de Piedad | image=RoomNMPDF1.JPG | wikidata=Q3402106 | content=This building, which was completed in 1758, was built on the grounds of the house of Aztec emperor Moctezuma and later the residence of the Spanish conqueror Hernán Cortés. The building was acquired in 1838 by the Nacional Monte de Piedad, a pawn shop established in 1775 that still operates today. }} * {{see | name=Casa de la Primera Imprenta de América | alt=House of the First Print Shop in the Americas | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Casa-de-la-Primera-Imprenta-de-Am%C3%A9rica/144480592260073?sk=timeline&ref=page_internal | email=igcarrion@correo.uam.mx | address=Lic Francisco Primo de Verdad 10 | lat=19.43367 | long=-99.13079 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5522 1535 | tollfree= | fax=+52 55 5522 1675 | hours=M-F 10:00-17:00, Sa 10:00-15:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=House of the First Print Shop in the Americas | image=PatioPrintShopDF1.JPG | wikidata=Q5915612 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=This building, which dates from 1524, housed the first printing press in the New World, which operated from 1539 until 1560. After this time the building was used for a number of purposes until it was restored by the ''Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana'' (UAM) in 1989; it now houses a museum displaying some of the first books printed in Mexico. }} * {{see | name=Casa Rivas Mercado | alt= | url=https://casarivasmercado.com/ | email=visitas@casarivasmercado.com | address=Calle Heroes 45, Guerrero | lat=19.441239 | long=-99.146738 | directions=Metro to Hidalgo, then walk 250 meters north on Calle Heroes | phone=+52 55 2591 6666 | tollfree= | hours=Sa-Su 10:00-11:30 and 12:00-13:30, closed M-F | price=M$200 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=Architecturally unique and utterly fascinating restored neoclassical mansion from the Porfiriato era of the 19th century with period furnishings. Guided tours (in Spanish). }} ===Religious buildings=== *{{see | name=Catedral Metropolitana de México | alt=Metropolitan Cathedral | url=http://www.catedralmetropolitanademexico.mx/apps/publications/info/?a=32&z=8 | email= | address= | lat=19.43434 | long=-99.13307 | directions=north side of the Zócalo | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:00-19:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral | image=Mexico Dic 06 045 1.jpg | wikidata=Q610961 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=The largest cathedral in the American continent. Designed by Claudio de Arcinieaga, construction started in 1537 and lasted for 250 years. Be sure to check out the side chapels where parishioners leave offerings for the various saints. For a bird's-eye view of the plaza, you can take a 40-minute tour (Spanish language only) of the upper levels and bell towers of the cathedral (M$12). }} ** {{see | name=Sagrario Metropolitano | alt= | url=http://www.catedralmetropolitanademexico.mx/apps/publications/info/?a=56&z=13 | email= | address= | lat=19.43393 | long=-99.13262 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=El Sagrario Metropolitano.JPG | hours=Daily 07:00-19:00 | price= | content=A side chapel next to the Cathedral completed in 1769. The façade is an excellent example of Mexican Churrigueresque architecture. }} * {{see | name=Templo de San Francisco | alt= | url= | email= | address=Francisco I Madero 7 | lat=19.43347 | long=-99.14005 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Segunda sección capilla de San Francisco 1.JPG | hours= | price= | content=This church was started in the 16th century and completed in the 19th century; it was built in the grounds of the zoo of Aztec Emperor Moctezuma. }} * {{see | name=Templo Expiatorio Nacional de San Felipe de Jesús | alt= | url= | email= | address=Francisco I Madero 9 | lat=19.43379 | long=-99.13985 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Fachada del Templo de San Felipe de JesúsD.jpg | wikidata=Q17374444 | content=Built in 1897 on the site of the former Vasque Church of Aranzazu. }} * {{see | name=Santa Teresa La Antigua | alt=Iglesia de Santa Teresa | url= | email= | address=Licenciado Verdad 6 | lat=19.43399 | long=-99.13062 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Santa Teresa la Antigua | image=Fachada y campanario del Ex Convento de Santa Teresa.JPG | wikidata=Q7419961 | content=Built in 1678 and refurbished in 1845. }} * {{see | name=Templo de la Enseñanza | alt=La Enseñanza Church | url= | email= | address=Donceles 104 | lat=19.43602 | long=-99.13224 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 08:00-20:00, Su 10:00-17:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=La Enseñanza Church | image=ADENTRO DEL TEMPLO.JPG | wikidata=Q6462320 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=Tucked away on a side street, this very narrow gem of a church was built in the 1770s and is notable for being an outstanding example of Mexican Churrigueresque architecture. Even more remarkable than the façade, however, are the nine gilt retablos inside. }} * {{see | name=Templo y Convento de Regina Coeli | alt=Parroquia de la Natividad de María Santísima | url=https://www.facebook.com/ParroquiaReginaCoeliDF/ | email= | address=Regina 3 | lat=19.428118 | long=-99.138974 | directions=Metro to Isabel la Catolica | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-07 | content=Huge historic church known for its opulent baroque interior. Part of a large Conceptionist convent founded in 1573. The statues and artwork is spectacular as is the gilded altar. }} ===Plazas=== [[File:Fuente de la Plaza de Santo Domingo.JPG|thumb|Plaza de Santo Domingo]] [[File:Escultura Carlos IV + Palacio de Minería.jpg|thumb|Plaza Manuel Tolsá]] [[File:TlatelolcoSite15.JPG|thumb|Zona Arquelógica Tlatelolco]] * {{see | name=Plaza de Santo Domingo | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.43728 | long=-99.13384 | directions=Between the streets of República de Cuba, Brasil and Belisario Dominguez | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Fuente de la Plaza de Santo Domingo.JPG | wikidata=Q9060963 | content=The second largest square in Centro Histórico after the Zócalo. It is surrounded by various important buildings such as the Palacio de la Inquisición, Santo Domingo convent and the old Customs House. }} ** {{see | name=Museo de la Medicina Mexicana | alt=Antiguo Palacio de la Inquisición / Palace of the Inquisition | url=http://pem.facmed.unam.mx/ | email=palaciodemedicina@gmail.com | address=República de Brasil 33 | lat=19.43795 | long=-99.13307 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5623 3123 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 09:00-13:00 | price=Free (photo ID required) | wikipedia=Palace of the Inquisition | image=MedPlantsMedMuseumDF.JPG | wikidata=Q7126272 | content=This museum managed by the Medicine Faculty of the National University now shows the history of health care in Mexico since the 19th century. Features a great replica of an old pharmacy. It is housed in the Inquisition Palace, built between 1732 and 1737, which was the head office of the Holy Inquisition, the religious authority famous for torturing heretic people. }} * {{see | name=Plaza Manuel Gamio | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.43414 | long=-99.13204 | directions=Seminario between Moneda and Guatemala streets | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Plaza Manuel Gamio - 2.JPG | wikidata=Q21680735 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=Features an open-air diorama of the old Tenochtitlán. }} * {{see | name=Plaza Manuel Tolsá | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tacuba 8 | lat=19.43609 | long=-99.13946 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Estatua del Caballito en la Plaza Manuel Tolsá Noche y Luna.JPG | wikidata=Q516715 | content=In this beautiful square you can find the '''Palacio de Minería''', the '''National Art Museum''' and the statue of Spanish king Charles IV also known as ''El Caballito'' (the little horse). }} ** {{see | name=Museo Nacional de Arte | alt=MUNAL / National Art Museum | url=http://www.munal.mx/munal/ | email= | address=Tacuba 8 | lat=19.43646 | long=-99.13942 | directions= | phone=+52 55 8647 5430 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-17:30 | price=M$38 (adults), free (concessions); free admission on Sundays | wikipedia=Museo Nacional de Arte | image=MUNAL.jpg | wikidata=Q1138147 | lastedit=2023-04-06 | content=Housed in the former Palace of Telecommunications, this beautiful Porfirian-style building was built in 1904 by architect Silvio Contri. The museum presents a permanent collection of paintings and sculptures from the 16th century through the early 20th century, including a large number of very early Mexican paintings. The museum is famous for its enormous and ostentatiously decorated Reception Hall and for its Patio de los Leones, which houses much of its sculpture collection. The museum is very large with over 3,000 objects on display. It often hosts temporary exhibits on special subjects. Allow at least a half day to fully explore its many galleries. }} ** {{see | name=Palacio de Minería | alt=Palace of Mining | url=http://www.palaciomineria.unam.mx/ | email= | address=Tacuba 5 | lat=19.43546 | long=-99.13959 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5623 2929 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Guided tours on Sa Su 11:00 and13:00 | price=M$30 | wikipedia=Palacio de Minería | image=Palacio de Mineria.jpg | wikidata=Q3431087 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=Formerly the Mining College, this building dated from 1792 features an old library and a chapel. It serves as venue for the yearly Mexico City Book Fair. }} *{{see | name=Plaza de las Tres Culturas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lázaro Cárdenas Eje | lat= | long= | directions=between cross streets Av Ricardo Flores Magón and Manuel González Eje; from the Metro, exit from Garibaldi station (line 8) and walk north on Lázaro Cárdenas, or from Tlatelolco station (line 3) and walk east on Manuel González | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Plaza de las Tres Culturas | wikidata=Q1851912 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=So called because in one city square you can see three different time periods of Mexico City's development mixed together: the pre-hispanic Aztec temple grounds of '''Tlatelolco''', the 16th-century Spanish '''Church of Santiago''', and a modern 20th-century skyscraper, now home of the '''University Cultural Center Tlatelolco''' (CCUT) for UNAM. }} ** {{see | name=Zona Arquelógica Tlatelolco | alt=Tlatelolco Archaeological Site | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.45141 | long=-99.13755 | directions=entrance is on Lázaro Cárdenas | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily English language tours at 13:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=Tlatelolco (archaeological site) | image=TlatelolcoSite15.JPG | wikidata=Q14623034 | content=The temple, like Tenochtitlan's Templo Mayor, was built in several layers and is now the site of continuing archaeological exploration; it occupies the largest amount of area, on the north and west side of the plaza. If you're not around for the tour, you can guide yourself along the path (complete with English plaques) that takes you through the ruins, which deposits you in front of the Church of Santiago, on the east side of the plaza. }} ** {{see | name=Templo de Santiago | alt=Church of Santiago | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.45107 | long=-99.13667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Iglesia de Santiago Tlatelolco, México D.F., México, 2013-10-16, DD 38.JPG | hours= | price= | content=The colonial church, built by Spaniards immediately after destroying the temple in their conquest of Aztec lands, was constructed using stones "borrowed" from the temple itself. Despite its weathered appearance, the interior is well-maintained and should still hold regular Mass, although doors may not always be open to the public. }} ** {{see | name=Centro Cultural Universitario Tlatelolco | alt= | url=http://www.tlatelolco.unam.mx/ | email=ccutlatelolco@gmail.com | address=Ricardo Flores Magón 1 | lat=19.45012 | long=-99.13702 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5117 2818 x49646 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Ccut proceso134.jpg | wikidata=Q6408610 | lastedit=2016-05-27 | content=To the south, you'll see the modern-day tower and its adjacent buildings, which were built for the Secretary of External Relations (SRE), now headquartered across the street (though they still have offices in the church's adjoining cloister). UNAM runs the building as a conference hall and cultural center, and has a few exhibits open to the public: '''Memorial 68''' (see Museums, below) and the '''Blaisten Collection''', showcasing modern art. }} ===Museums=== {{infobox|Noche de Museos|On the last Wednesday of the month, museums stay open extra late (sometimes until midnight), offer free admission, and present special events like live music, wine tastings, guest lectures, or film screenings (hopefully no Ben Stiller comedies).}} [[File:ApothecaryDisplayMayer1.jpg|thumb|Apothecary display at Museo Franz Mayer]] [[File:Museo de la Ciudad de México, México D.F., México, 2013-10-16, DD 130.JPG|thumb|Museo de la Ciudad de México]] Mexico City prides itself in having the largest number of museums in the world, and most of these museums are in Centro Historico. Highly recommended are the Museo Nacional de Arte, Museo del Templo Mayor and Museo Franz Mayer. Remember most museums are closed on Mondays. ====Art museums==== * {{see | name= Museo de Arte Popular| alt=Museum of Folk Art | url= https://www.map.cdmx.gob.mx| email= | address= Revillagigedo 11| lat=19.4336 | long=-99.1463 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5510 2201 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Su 10:00-18:00| price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-02 | content=The Museo de Arte Popular in Mexico City is a vibrant showcase of folk art from every Mexican state, housed in a stunning 1920s art deco former fire station designed by Vicente Mendiola. Spread across three levels and five thematic halls, it displays crafts like Chiapas carnaval masks, Oaxaca alebrijes, regional costumes, and Day of the Dead artifacts. An illustrated wall map highlights Mexico’s regional traditions. Even museum skeptics and kids love its colorful exhibits, and the ground-level shop offers unique, high-quality handicrafts. }} * {{see | name=Museo Franz Mayer | alt=Franz Mayer Museum | url=https://franzmayer.org.mx/ | email=museo@franzmayer.org.mx | address=Hidalgo 45 | lat=19.43727 | long=-99.14331 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5518 2266 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-19:00 | price=M$45 (adults), M$25 (students/teachers), free (seniors/children under 12/museum members) | wikipedia=Franz Mayer Museum | image=ApothecaryDisplayMayer1.jpg | wikidata=Q1148324 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=Housed in a 18th century building, houses the largest and finest collection of decorative arts in Mexico. The collection, including objects from Mexico, Europe and Asia ranging from the 16th to the 19th century was a donation of German-Mexican philantropist Franz Mayer. }} * {{see | name=Museo José Luis Cuevas | alt=Museo JLC / José Luis Cuevas Museum | url=http://www.museojoseluiscuevas.com.mx/ | email= | address=Academía 13 | lat=19.43365 | long=-99.12914 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5522 0156 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 10:00-19:00 (closed Sa Su) | price=M$40 (adults), M$20 (students/teachers) | wikipedia=José Luis Cuevas Museum | image=CourtyardJLCMuseumDF.JPG | wikidata=Q6292752 | lastedit=2023-09-28 | content=Housed in the former convent of Santa Ines built in 1600. The museum's collection features works by Mexican artist Jose Luis Cuevas as well as other modern artists, it also presents works (especially [[Sculpture|sculptures]]) from European artists such as Picasso and Rembrandt. The museum's courtyard features an enormous statue called, appropriately enough, ''La Gigantesca''. }} * {{see | name=Academía de San Carlos | alt=Museo Nacional de San Carlos / Academy of San Carlos | url=http://www.artesvisuales.unam.mx/ | email= | address=Academía 22 | lat=19.43308 | long=-99.12868 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5522 0630 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Academy of San Carlos | image=San Carlos (3186678949).jpg | wikidata=Q337267 | lastedit=2023-04-13 | content=Housed in a building dated 1785 that was conceived as the Royal Academy of Beaux Arts. It is administered by the National University and features permanent and temporary painting collections. This is the oldest arts academy in the Americas and has trained large number of Mexico's most famous artists. Today, the academy is part of the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico (UNAM) and only graduate courses are taught in the historic centro. }} * {{see | name=Museo Mural Diego Rivera | alt= | url=http://www.museomuraldiegorivera.bellasartes.gob.mx/ | email=mmdr.informes@inba.gob.mx | address=Puente de Alvarado 50 | lat=19.43614 | long=-99.14680 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5512 0754 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=M$35 (adults), free (students/teachers), photo permit M$5 | image=Museo Mural Diego Rivera.jpg | wikidata=Q6033558 | lastedit=2018-01-18 | content=This museum was built to house Diego Rivera's famous mural ''Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central'' ('Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda Central'), which the painter created for the Hotel del Prado in 1947-1948. The hotel was destroyed in the earthquake of 1985, but the mural survived and was moved to this location. The museum also hosts permanent and temporary exhibits. }} * {{see | name=Museo Nacional de la Estampa | alt=MUNAE / Museum of Graphic Arts | url=http://www.museonacionaldelaestampa.bellasartes.gob.mx/ | email= | address=Avda Hidalgo 39 | lat=19.43703 | long=-99.14272 | directions=Plaza de la Santa Veracruz | phone=+52 55 5510 4905 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=M$45 (adults), free (students/teachers/INAPAM members); free admission on Sundays | wikipedia=Museo de la Estampa | image=De noche fuera del Museo Nacional de la Estampa.JPG | wikidata=Q2893965 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=Features a collection of old engravings and other graphic arts. }} * {{see | name=Museo Kaluz | alt= | url=https://museokaluz.org | email= | address=Hidalgo 85 | lat=19.438300 | long=-99.145847 | directions=corner of Hidalgo and Reforma, at the edge of the Alameda; use Metro to Hidalgo or Bellas Artes | phone=+52 55 2345 3168 | tollfree= | hours=W-M 10:00 - 18:00, closed Tu | price=M$90 (foreigners), M$60 (Mexican citizens) | lastedit=2023-11-11 | content=Eclectic art museum that straddles the line between traditional artistic styles and the worlds of modern and contemporary art. The museum focuses on works that reflect the history and changing cultural values of Mexico City, a unique collection in a city crowded with outstanding arts venues. The museum itself is housed in a historic building, originally the Hospedería de Santo Tomás de Villanueva, but known to generations of Mexicans as the Hotel Cortes, the building was extensively restored and updated prior to the opening of Museo Kaluz in 2021. Roof top terrace with peaceful gardens and a popular cafe. }} * {{see | name=Museo de la Arte de SHCP | alt=Antiguo Palacio del Arzobispado | url=https://www.shcp.gob.mx | email= | address=Moneda 4 | lat=19.43378189835445 | long=-99.13129303366622 | directions=20 meters off the Zocalo, near Palacio Nacional | phone=+52 55 3688 1248 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00 - 17:00, closed M | price=Free | lastedit=2024-01-06 | content=Eclectic art collection owned by the government's Finance ministry. Mexico has an innovative tax program that allows collectors and artists to pay tax debts by donating significant artworks. The collection includes works by famous artists like Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and Rufino Tamayo as well as many cutting-edge contemporary works. }} ====History museums==== * {{see | name=Museo de la Ciudad de México | alt=Museum of the City of Mexico | url=https://www.facebook.com/museodelaciudadmx/ | email=atencionapublico.mcm@gmail.com | address=José María Pino Suárez 30 | lat=19.42926 | long=-99.13214 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5522 9936 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-18:00 | price=M$29 (adults), M$14.50 (students/teachers/INAPAM members); free on W | wikipedia=Museum of the City of Mexico | image=Museo de la Ciudad de México, México D.F., México, 2013-10-16, DD 130.JPG | wikidata=Q1402600 | lastedit=2016-05-27 | content=This museum presents the history of the city in an 18th century mansion; the building itself is possibly more interesting than the contents. It is believed that a conquistador's house was previously on the site, as evidenced by the southwest cornerstone of an Aztec serpent head likely taken from the Templo Mayor. }} *{{see | name=Memorial del 68 | alt= | url=http://sic.gob.mx/ficha.php?table=museo&table_id=1600 | email= | address=Avda Ricardo Flores Magón 1 | lat=19.44978 | long=-99.13664 | directions=cross street Lázaro Cárdenas Eje; from the metro, exit from Garibaldi station (line 8) and walk north on Lázaro Cárdenas, or from Tlatelolco station (line 3) and walk east on Manuel González | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=M$30 (adults), M$15 (students), free (children under 6); free admission on Su | image=Memorial 2.JPG | wikidata=Q5406027 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=In UNAM's University Cultural Center Tlatelolco (CCUT) at the Plaza de las Tres Culturas (see Landmarks, above), Memorial 68 is a well-put together museum chronicling the events surrounding the police massacre of student protesters at Tlatelolco in 1968, around the time of the Summer Olympics, which were hosted in Mexico City that year. It's definitely worth a look, but all explanatory text and video interviews are in Spanish only, so brush up your vocabulary or bring a translator. }} * {{see | name=Museo Memoria y Tolerancia | alt=Museum of Memory and Tolerance | url=http://www.myt.org.mx/ | email=info@myt.org.mx | address=Plaza Juárez | lat=19.43418 | long=-99.14462 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5130 5555 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 09:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-19:00; last tickets sold ½ hr before closing | price=M$75 (adults), M$60 (students/teachers/seniors); temporary exhibits: M$30 (adults), M$15 (concessions) | image=Museo Memoria y Tolerancia 43.JPG | wikidata=Q6033509 | lastedit=2024-02-11 | content=Opened in 2010, this museum is dedicated to the remembrance of genocides and crimes against humanity committed around the globe, with the goal of promoting peace and tolerance. Separate sections of the museum are devoted to the Holocaust, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Rwanda, the Khmer Rouge, Darfur, Armenia, and Guatemala. Genocide is only one of the issues the museum confronts. Exhibits also explore hate crimes committed in the name of religion, racial purity, and especially sexual orientation, with a number of exhibits and lectures exploring LGBT issues (in Mexico, they tend to add a ''lot'' of extra letters so that you might see it as LGBTTTQIA). }} ====Garment museums==== * {{see | name=Museo de la Indumentaria Mexicana | alt= | url= | email= | address=Izazaga and 5 de Febrero | lat=19.42654 | long=-99.13645 | directions=In Universidad del Claustro de Sor Juana | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5556764 | content=Collection of traditional Mexican clothing. }} * {{see | name=Museo del Calzado El Borceguí | alt=El Borceguí Shoe Museum | url=http://www.elborcegui.com.mx/museo.htm | email= | address=C/ Bolivar 27, 1st Floor | lat=19.433111 | long=-99.138501 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-14:00 15:00-18:00, Sa 10:00-18:00 | price=Free | image=Borcegui 21.jpg | wikidata=Q17374405 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=Private collection of old shoes from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. The museum belongs to the shoe store ''El Borcegui'', established in 1865 and still selling shoes today. }} ====Other museums==== * {{see | name=Museo Nacional de las Culturas | alt=National Museum of Cultures | url=https://www.inah.gob.mx/red-de-museos/315-museo-nacional-de-las-culturas | email=direccion.mnc@inah.gob.mx | address=C/ Moneda 13 | lat=19.43305 | long=-99.13040 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5542 0187 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=Museo Nacional de las Culturas | image=Museo Nacional de las Culturas.JPG | wikidata=Q6940503 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=Housed in the former Mint building built in 1734. The museum is dedicated to anthropology of the world. }} * {{see | name=Museo Archivo de la Fotografia | url=https://www.cultura.cdmx.gob.mx/recintos/maf | address=Republica de Guatemala 34 | lat=19.43516784998736 | long=-99.13217331828216 | phone=+52 55 2616 7057 | hours=Tu-Su 10:00 - 17:00, closed M | price= | lastedit=2024-01-28 | content=Housed in the historic 16th century Casa de las Ajaracas, it is a rare survivor on a street that has seen other historic structures knocked down to explore the Templo Mayor site. The museum is home to a huge collection of historical photographs from the 19th and 20th century (and beyond), documenting the constantly changing cityscape of Mexico City. }} * {{see | name=Centro Cultural de España en México | alt=CCEMx / Cultural Center of Spain in Mexico | url=http://ccemx.org/ | email=info@ccemx.org | address=República de Guatemala 18 | lat=19.43517 | long=-99.13291 | directions= | phone=+52 5521 1925 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-F 11:00-21:00, Sa 10:00-21:00, Su 10:00-16:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=Centro Cultural de España | image=CCEMEXFacade01.JPG | wikidata=Q5062814 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=This is the official cultural center from the Spanish Embassy and features temporary exhibits. }} * {{see | name=Museo de San Ildefonso | alt=Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso / San Ildefonso College | url=http://www.sanildefonso.org.mx/ | email=servicios@sanildefonso.org.mx | address=Justo Sierra 16 | lat=19.43605 | long=-99.13066 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5702 2991 | tollfree= | hours=Tu 10:00-20:00, W-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=M$50 (adults), M$25 (students/teachers), free (children under 12); free admission on Tu | wikipedia=San Ildefonso College | image=PortalColegioGrandeSIDF.JPG | wikidata=Q2297137 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=Managed by the National University, this museum features some stunning murals and hosts great permanent and temporary art exhibits. }} * {{see | name=Museo del Estanquillo | alt=Museum of the Little Shop | url=http://www.museodelestanquillo.com/ | email= | address=Isabel La Católica 26 | lat=19.43330 | long=-99.13615 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5521 3052 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-M 10:00-18:00 | price= | wikipedia=Museo del Estanquillo | image=Museo del Estanquillo de Noche.jpg | wikidata=Q6034430 | content=One of the newest museums in the city, this contains the personal collection of paintings, photography, and books of the Mexican journalist and writer Carlos Monsivais. }} * {{see | name=Museo de la Caricatura | alt=Caricature Museum | url=http://museodelacaricatura.org/ | email= | address=C/ Donceles 99 | lat=19.43565 | long=-99.13266 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5702 9256 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00-18:00 | price=M$20 (adults), M$10 (students/teachers) | wikipedia=Caricature Museum, Mexico City | image=EntranceCaricatureMusDF.JPG | wikidata=Q5039534 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=Depicting the history of Mexican cartoons (political and amusing cartoons). }} * {{see | name=Museo de la Luz | alt=Museum of Light | url=http://www.museodelaluz.unam.mx/ | email=museoluz@unam.mx | address=El Carmen 31 | lat=19.43656 | long=-99.12933 | directions=corner with San Ildefonso | phone=+52 55 5702 4129 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-17:00, Sa Su and holidays 10:00-17:00 | price=M$35 (adults), M$25 (concessions), free (children under 2) | wikipedia=Museum of Light, Mexico City | image=FacadeMuseoLuzDF.JPG | wikidata=Q15260374 | lastedit=2017-01-28 | content=Managed by the National University, this museum is mostly for students on everything to do with light (photography, electricity, vision, etc). }} * {{see | name=Museo de la Charrería | alt=Ex Templo de Nuestra Señora de Montserrat | url= | email= | address=José María Izazaga 89 | lat=19.42604 | long=-99.13714 | directions=near Isabel La Católica | phone=+52 55 5709 4793 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Museo de Charrería | image=Templo Montserrat.jpg | wikidata=Q9047058 | content=This museum features everything about the Mexican Cowboy, known as Charro. }} * {{see | name=Museo Legislativo | alt=Mexico Congress | url=http://museolegislativo.diputados.gob.mx/ | email= | address=Honorable Congreso de la Unión #66, Col. Delegacion | lat=19.430240 | long=-99.117393 | directions=Metro line 1 or B to San Lazaro or line 1 or 4 to Candelaria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 10:00 - 18:00, closed Sa-Su | price=Free | lastedit=2024-01-09 | content=Museum dedicated to Mexico's Congress, with exhibits about the legislative process and the two houses: the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies. The building houses the legislative chamber of the larger house (Chamber of Deputies). The Senate conducts sessions in a different building on Av. Reforma. Congressional tours are conducted through the museum and include the opportunity to enter the Chamber of Deputies. This building is equivalent to Parliament in London or the Capitol in Washington D.C. }} ===Other attractions=== [[File:Palacio de Bellas Artes.jpg|thumb|Palacio de Bellas Artes]] [[File:Palacio Postal, México D.F., México, 2013-10-16, DD 52.JPG|thumb|Palacio Postal]] [[File:Diego Rivera Murals - Secretaria de Educacion Publica (SEP).jpg|thumb|124 Diego Rivera murals line the walls on 3 floors of the SEP building]] * {{see | name=Palacio de Bellas Artes | alt=Palace of Fine Arts | url=http://www.palacio.bellasartes.gob.mx/ | email=gpba.palaciodebellasartes@inba.gob.mx | address=Avenida Juárez and Eje Central | lat=19.43550 | long=-99.14126 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5512 2593 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00; last admission ½ hr before closing | price=Free (lobby), M$60 for mezzanine with murals and galleries; $M30 photography permit; free admission on Sundays | wikipedia=Palacio de Bellas Artes | image=Palacio de Bellas Artes.jpg | wikidata=Q1139081 | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=Designed by Italian architect Adamo Boari. Construction started in 1905, however due to the Revolution War, it was not completed until 1934. The building is so heavy that it has sunk 4½m into the former lakebed. It is considered to be one of the best examples of Mexican Art Deco architecture; architectural and interior features include its copper cupolas and a Tiffany stained-glass stage curtain designed by Mexican painter Gerardo Murillo (commonly known as Dr. Atl).}} **The main attraction for visitors is the building's collection of large murals on the 2nd and 3rd floors, by David Siqueiros, Diego Rivera, Rufino Tamayo, and Juan O'Gorman. Of these, highlights include Siqueiros' masterpiece ''Nueva democracia'' and Rivera's ''El hombre contralor del Universo'', a reproduction of the original commissioned and destroyed by Nelson Rockefeller in New York. **''Ballet Folklorico de Amalia Hernandez'' is a renowned dance theatre show that performs regularly in the Palacio de Bellas Artes when the show is not touring internationally. The theatre is a stunning art deco venue with a stained glass curtain created by Dr. Atl. Show times and tickets are available on TicketMaster. * {{see | name=Secretaría de Educación Pública | alt=SEP, Ministry of Public Education | url= | email= | address=Republica de Argentina 28 | lat=19.4371 | long=-99.1322 | directions= | phone=+52 55 3601 1000 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-17:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=Secretariat of Public Education (Mexico) | image=Diego Rivera Murals - Secretaria de Educacion Publica (SEP).jpg | wikidata=Q750196 | content=This former convent, built in 1729 and now housing the Education Secretariat, should not be missed by Diego Rivera fans. The building has 124 mural panels extending over two city blocks and filling three levels, with the most elaborate panels of traditional Mexican life on the ground floor, state seals on the second floor, and themes of revolution and class inequality on the third level. The works on level one and three pack the most punch. There is also a David Alfaro Siqueiros mural in the main stairwell. Photography permitted, no flash. }} * {{see | name=Palacio Postal | alt=Palacio de Correos / Correos Mayor | url= | email= | address=Tacuba 1 | lat=19.43562 | long=-99.14028 | directions=corner of Eje Central and Tacuba. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 08:00-21:00, Sa 08:00-18:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=Palacio de Correos de Mexico | image=Palacio Postal, México D.F., México, 2013-10-16, DD 52.JPG | wikidata=Q978161 | content=One of the most beautiful buildings in the country and considered a National Heritage Building. Built in 1906, this European style building houses the main post office. Most of the materials used to build it were brought from Italy. }} ** {{see | name=Museo Postal | url= | email= | address=Tacuba 1 | lat=19.43577 | long=-99.14027 | directions=Palacio Postal | phone=+52 55 5510 2999 | tollfree= | fax= | image=ClockPalPostalDF.JPG | hours=Daily 10:00-18:00 | price= | content=Housed in the Postal Palace, features old postal stationery and mail boxes. }} * {{see | name=Torre Latinoamericana | alt=Latinoamericana Tower | url=http://torrelatinoamericana.com.mx/ | email= | address=Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas 2 | lat=19.43389 | long=-99.14061 | directions=corner of Francisco I Madero St | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-22:00 | price=M$120 (observatory) | wikipedia=Torre Latinoamericana | image=Torre Latino.jpg | wikidata=Q947870 | content=Construction started in 1948 and was completed in 1956. This was Mexico's first skyscraper, boasting 44 floors and 182 meters. There is an observatory in the 42nd floor. }} * {{see | name=Banco de México | alt=Bank of Mexico | url= | email= | address=Cinco de Mayo and Avda Eje Central | lat=19.43505 | long=-99.14041 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bank of Mexico | image=Banco de México & INBA.jpg | wikidata=Q806208 | content=Office of the Mexican Central Bank, built in 1925. }} * {{see | name=Suprema Corte de Justicia de la Nación | alt=Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.43112 | long=-99.13168 | directions=Pino Suarez and Corregidora | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation | image=Suprema Corte de Justicia de la Nación de México - frontispicio.jpg | wikidata=Q130925 | content=This building was completed in 1945 and was designed by architect Antonio Muñoz Garcia. }} * {{see | name=Centro de la Imagen | alt= | url=https://centrodelaimagen.cultura.gob.mx/ | email=cimagen@mail.internet.com.mx | address=Plaza de la Ciudadela 2 | lat=19.4292 | long=-99.1488 | directions=entrance on Calle Balderas | phone=+52 55 4155 0850 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-18:00 | price=Free | image=Centro de la Imagen, México.jpg | wikidata=Q5762082 | content=This is one of Mexico City's premier exhibition spaces for photography, with rotating exhibits of work by Mexican and international photographers. The center also has a small bookstore. }} * {{see | name=Biblioteca Miguel Lerdo de Tejada | alt=Library of Miguel Lerdo de Tejada | url=http://www.hacienda.gob.mx/cultura/museo_virtual_biblioteca_lerdo/index.htm | email= | address=República de El Salvador 49 | lat=19.42969 | long=-99.13780 | directions= | phone=+52 55 3688 9837 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-17:30 | price=Free | image=Biblioteca Miguel Lerdo de Tejada.jpg | wikidata=Q16489693 | content=This Baroque building was built as a church, but in the 1960s was repurposed to house a library. For visitors the primary interest is a series of enormous murals painted by the Russian emigré painter Vladimir Kibalchich Russakov (known in Mexico simply as Vlady). The murals in the main room are titled ''La Revolución y los Elementos'' (or 'Revolution and the Elements'). They required eight years to complete and are considered to be among the artist's most well-known works. }} * {{see | name=Biblioteca de México José Vasconcelos | alt= | url=http://www.bibliotecademexico.gob.mx | email= | address=Plaza de la Ciudadela No 4 | lat=19.42865 | long=-99.14967 | directions= | phone=+52 55 4155 0830 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:30-19:30 | price=Free | image=EntranceMexicoCityLibrary.JPG | wikidata=Q5727809 | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=Located in a former tobacco factory, it is one of the largest libraries in the city. It contains several beautiful courtyards and smaller libraries decorated according to the character of different Mexican authors who donated their book collections to the library. }} [[File:Vasconcelos library.jpg|thumb|Inside the Biblioteca Vasconcelos]] * {{see | name=Biblioteca Vasconcelos | alt=Megabiblioteca | url=http://www.bibliotecavasconcelos.gob.mx/ | email=contactobvasconcelos@conaculta.gob.mx | address=Eje 1 norte Mosqueta s/n | lat=19.44741 | long=-99.15081 | directions=corner of Aldama | phone=+52 55 9157 2800 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:30-19:30 | price=Free | wikipedia=Biblioteca Vasconcelos | image=Biblioteca Vasconcelos, Ciudad de México, México, 2015-07-20, DD 04-06 HDR.JPG | wikidata=Q6294156 | lastedit=2023-11-11 | content=Next to Buenavista train station, it is the largest library in Mexico and functions as a central library for other libraries in the country. It is housed in an impressive modern building designed by architects Alberto Kalach and Juan Palomar. It is a must for visitors with an interest in architecture, not only for its stunning exterior design, but for its famous "floating stacks" that create the illusion of book shelves hanging from the ceiling. The library also houses a large contemporary art collection. The ground floor houses free temporary exhibits and the grounds include a botanical garden with native plants. }} ===Other interesting adjacent neighborhoods=== * {{see | name=Colonia San Rafael | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Colonia San Rafael | wikidata=Q5148254 | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=Colonia San Rafael is just 1 km west of the historic city center. It was established in the late 19th century as one of the first formal neighborhoods outside of the city center and initially catered to the wealthy of the Porfirio Díaz era. These early residents built large mansions, many with French influence, and many still remain. This neighbourhood has now a large number of movie theatres and Museums ([http://www.eleco.unam.mx El eco], El Chopo, [http://mnsancarlos.com El Museo Nacional San Carlos]) and galleries [http://www.yau.com.mx Yautepec], [http://www.facebook.com/galeriala77 La 77], [http://www.elpatio77.com @ El patio 77 B&B], [http://www.galeriahilariogalguera.com Hilario Galguera]. }} * {{see | name=Colonia Santa María la Ribera | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Colonia Santa María la Ribera | wikidata=Q5148257 | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=A colonia in the Cuauhtémoc borough of Mexico City, 2 km west of the historic center. This area was designated as a "Barrio Mágico" by the city in 2011 and it was created in the late 19th century. The colonia reached its height between 1910 and 1930. In the 1930s, the middle class moved in and a new era of construction began. Today, the colonia is a mix of old mansions and homes (with over 1,000 categorized has having architectural or historic value), small shops and businesses, tenements and abandoned buildings. }} ** {{see | name=Alameda de Santa María la Ribera | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Salvador Díaz Mirón | lat=19.4503 | long=-99.1572 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q54820837 | lastedit=2025-06-02 | content=This historic park, established in 1861, is the heart of Santa María la Ribera. Its centerpiece is the Kiosco Morisco, an Art Nouveau pavilion built in 1884 for the New Orleans World’s Fair and relocated here in 1910. Surrounded by jacaranda trees and tiled fountains, it hosts dance classes, markets, and music on weekends.}} ** {{see | name=Museo del Instituto de Geología de la UNAM | alt= | url=http://www.geologia.unam.mx/igl/museo | email=musgeologia1906@gmail.com | address=Jaime Torres Bodet 176 | lat=19.4502 | long=-99.1576 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5547 3948 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-17:00 | price=M$30 (general), M$25 (students, teachers, seniors) | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-02 | content=Housed in a 1906 Porfirian building in Santa María la Ribera, this museum showcases Mexico’s geological heritage with a mammoth skeleton, the dinosaur Isauria, and extensive mineral and fossil collections. Interactive exhibits and José María Velasco’s paintings enhance the experience. }} ** {{see | name=Parroquia Josefina de la Sagrada Familia | alt= | url= | email=musgeologia1906@gmail.com | address=Santa María la Ribera 69 | lat=19.4445 | long=-99.157773 | directions= | phone=+52 55 7314 4793 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-13:00, 16:00-19:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-02 | content=This late 19th-century Byzantine-style church in Santa María la Ribera, designed by Carlos Herrera, is a hidden gem. Its vibrant interior features murals by Pedro Cruz depicting the life of St. Joseph, Christ’s birth, and the flight to Egypt, alongside stunning stained-glass windows and unique woodwork. A serene space for reflection, it’s a cultural treasure in one of Mexico City’s historic neighborhoods. }} ** {{see | name=Museo Universitario del Chopo | alt= | url=http://www.chopo.unam.mx | email=contacto@chopo.unam.mx | address=Dr. Enrique González Martínez 10 | lat=19.4421 | long=-99.1567 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5546 8490 | tollfree= | hours=W-Su 11:30-18:00 | price=M$40 (general), M$20 (students, teachers, seniors) | wikidata=Q1954283 | lastedit=2025-06-02 | content=Housed in a striking 1902 iron-and-glass building by Enrique Norten, this UNAM-managed museum in Santa María la Ribera focuses on contemporary art. It features rotating exhibits of avant-garde works, performances, and workshops. A cultural hub with a modernist vibe. }} ==Do== ===Bicycling=== [[File:Bicicletas Paseo de la Reforma - TurismoCDMX - 39.jpg|thumb|Free bikes on Paseo de la Reforma]] Bicycle your way through the city center on Sunday morning. Paseo de la Reforma is closed to vehicle traffic and so are a lot of other downtown streets. The Mexico City government makes it easy to join in the fun. Go to Glorieta de las Palmas on Paseo Reforma and look for the big tents. There you'll find bikes you can borrow for up to 2 hours --- no charge --- just show your ID and fill out a form. Bikes are available starting at 8am and must be returned by 14:00. ===Performing arts=== [[File:Teatro de la Ciudad "Esperanza Iris" 20170323- DSC1493-Pano (32979415734).jpg|thumb|Inside Teatro de la Ciudad]] * {{do | name=Teatro de la Ciudad | alt=Esperanza Iris | url=http://www.teatros.cultura.cdmx.gob.mx/ | email= | address=Doncelos 36 | lat=19.4366 | long=-99.1373 | directions=take Metro to Allende | phone=+52 55 1719 3000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7691977 | content=Historic theatre that was built to resemble La Scala in Milan. It is a huge theatre with stacks of balcony levels looking onto the stage below. The best seats are on the 1st balcony level (better than main level seats). The theatre hosts a range of performances, many plays, but also dance, music, and other forms. }} * {{do | name=Balet Folklorico | alt= | url=https://balletfolkloricodemexico.com.mx/ | email= | address=Palacio de Bellas Artes (see below) | lat= | long= | directions=Metro to Bellas Artes | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-10-23 | content=Iconic performances of regional traditional dance and music from all parts of Mexico. The performance hall itself is a spectacular example of [[Art Deco architecture]] and features a stained glass curtain designed by famed muralist Dr. Atl. }} ==Buy== Until the 1950s the Centro Histórico was the main shopping district of the city. Many of the prestigious department stores of the country such as Liverpool and El Palacio de Hierro opened their first stores here. Today, the area is still one of the busiest shopping areas of the city. The area has several streets dedicated to a particular kind of shopping, something inherited from the Spanish. Shopping in the Centro is a real back-in-time experience as many of the spaces where the stores are located are truly historic. ===Markets=== [[File:Hall2MercedDF.JPG|thumb|La Merced]] [[File:Mercado de Sonora México DF 20 04 07.jpg|thumb|Santa Muerte items for sale at Mercado de Sonora]] * {{buy | name=Mercado de la Merced | alt=La Merced Market | url= | email= | address=bounded by Santa Escuela, General Anaya, Rosario, and Cerrado del Rosario | lat=19.4262 | long=-99.1239 | directions=metro line 1 (pink) to La Merced | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 06:00-18:00 | price= | wikipedia=La Merced Market | image=Hall2MercedDF.JPG | wikidata=Q3377015 | lastedit=2024-04-26 | content=One of the largest and most famous markets in Mexico, La Merced was built in 1860 and covers several blocks with tianguis style vendors lining nearby streets. The market mainly sells food and household items; if you're looking to cook for yourself or just want to wander aisles of stalls selling cheap limes or huitlacoche, this is the place to go. Many vendors offer tastings. Foreigners will stick out a bit, but not excessively. Vendors are honest, at least for Spanish speakers, and may accommodate some bargaining although prices are fair. Local tour guides offer half-day tours of the market (yes, it's ''that'' big!). Vendors with the best food usually have the longest lines. }} * {{buy | name=Mercado de Sonora | alt=Witches' Market | url= | email= | address=Av Fray Servando Teresa de Mier | lat=19.4221 | long=-99.1249 | directions=corner of Calz de la Viga | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-17:00 | price= | wikipedia=Mercado de Sonora | image=Mercado de Sonora México DF 20 04 07.jpg | wikidata=Q5548562 |lastedit=2020-03-11| content=One of the more interesting markets, this specializes in traditional medicines, as well as paraphernalia for Santa Muerte and voodoo. Endangered animals are also sold here, and the market is regularly raided by the police. The area is not as safe as the higher-class neighborhoods to the west; exercise caution. }} * {{buy | name=Mercado de San Juan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.42995 | long=-99.14465 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily | price= | image=DeliSanJuanDF.JPG | wikidata=Q28517857 | content=Specializing in gourmet foods, this market is frequented by many of Mexico City's top chefs. On offer are many foods imported from Europe and elsewhere, including such specialties as European cheeses, Spanish and Italian sausage, and pre-Hispanic foods. }} * {{buy | name=Mercado de Artesanías de San Juan | alt=San Juan Arts and Crafts Market | url=https://www.facebook.com/sjcdmx/ | email= | address=Ayuntamiento s/n | lat=19.43026 | long=-99.14305 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5521 7846 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Mercado artesanias san Juan.jpg | hours=Daily 10:00-16:00 | price= | content=Vendors here sell a full range of Mexican handicrafts from across the country, including pottery, textiles, carving, leatherwork, and jewelry. }} * {{buy | name=Mercado de la Ciudadela | alt=Ciudadela Market | url=http://laciudadela.com.mx/ | email= | address=C Balderas 97 | lat=19.43082 | long=-99.14917 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5510 1828 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-19:00, Su 09:00-18:00 | price= | wikipedia=Ciudadela Market | image=ArtesaniasCiudadela.JPG | wikidata=Q18347778 |lastedit=2020-03-11| content=Tourist-oriented handicrafts market, cleaner, emptier, and more expensive than the other markets in the city, with crafts from all over Mexico. }} * {{buy | name=Mercado Lagunilla | alt=La Lagunilla | url= | email= | address=Prolongación Paseo de la Reforma and Francisco Bocanegra | lat=19.44311 | long=-99.13634 | directions=just past Eje 1 Norte | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su 10:00-16:00 | price= | image=Lagunilla ropa.jpg | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=This huge street market features antiques and other new goods such as clothing, crafts, food, jewelry and toys. It is considered safe to stroll in this street market, but try to remain in the streets near Francisco Bocanegra and Comonfor, because beyond that the market eventually blends into Tepito, another market which is a lot less safe. }} ===Specialized streets=== * {{do | name=Avenida de República de Salvador | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-13 | content=The first half of the street (from Avenida Eje Central Avenue to Avenida Isabel la Católica) specializes in all sorts of electronics. From spare parts (speakers, wiring, transistors) to complete home theater systems, audio mixers and lighting for dance clubs. The other half of the street (from Isabel la Católica) specializes in stationery and paper. }} * {{buy | name=Avenida Eje Central | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=You will notice that this street is full of street vendors. Be careful, the area is extremely crowded making it a paradise for pickpockets. Between the streets of República del Salvador and República de Uruguay, there is a shopping center known as {{marker|type=buy|name=Plaza de la Tecnología|url=http://www.plazadelatecnologia.com/|lat=19.43147 | long=-99.14113}} as well as the {{marker|type=buy|name=Plaza de Computación|lat=19.43151|long=-99.14165}}. Both are enormous indoor markets of little stalls hawking computer parts and electronics. }} * {{do | name=Calle del Artículo 123 | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=Specializes in appliances, from spare parts to industrial vacuums and blenders. }} * {{buy | name=Calle Victoria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=Specializes in lighting, from wiring and electric outlets to chandeliers and lamps. }} * {{buy | name=Calle de Donceles | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5740823 | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=Specializes in photography. }} * {{buy | name=Calle de República de Cuba | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17623546 | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=Specializes in printing (books, posters, thesis). In this street there are a few libraries selling very old books (18th and 19th centuries). }} * {{buy | name=Barrio Chino | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Dolores | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Barrio Chino (Mexico City) | wikidata=Q5100149 | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=This street has become a pedestrian-only street full of Chinese restaurants and stores. }} * {{buy | name=Calle Tacuba | alt= | url= | email= | address=C. Tacuba 46 | lat= | long= | directions=Metro to the Allende station | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-04-06 | content=Eyeglasses, contact lenses, and dozens of opticians. }} ===Department stores=== [[File:Casa de Azulejos 3.jpg|thumb|The original Sanborns store, in the historic ''Casa de los Azulejos'']] * {{buy | name=Liverpool | alt=originally El Puerto de Liverpool | url=http://www.liverpool.com.mx/tienda | email= | address=Venustiano Carranza 92 | lat=19.43116 | long=-99.13322 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5133 2800 | tollfree= | fax= | image=LiverpoolStoreDF.JPG | hours=M-Sa 11:00-21:00, Su 11:00-20:30 | price= | content=This department store is housed in an Art-Deco building that was built in the late 1920s. }} * {{buy | name=El Palacio de Hierro | alt= | url=http://www.elpalaciodehierro.com/ | email= | address=Avda 20 de Noviembre 3 | lat=19.43125 | long=-99.13408 | directions=on the corner of Venustiano Carranza | phone=+52 55 5229 3154 | tollfree=+52 800 9075 300 | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=El Palacio de Hierro | wikidata=Q5351735 |image=Palacio de Hierro Centro.jpg | content=This department store was established in 1891. The name of this store, (The Iron Palace) was named like that after it was the first iron and steel building in the city. }} * {{buy | name=Sanborns | alt=Casa de los Azulejos | url=http://www.sanborns.com.mx/Paginas/Inicio.aspx?usgr=normal | email= | address=Francisco I Madero 4 | lat=19.43434 | long=-99.14014 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5512 1331 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily | price= | wikipedia=Casa de los Azulejos | image=Casa de los azulejos.jpg | wikidata=Q1267814 | content=This department store and restaurant is housed in the former residency of the Counts of the Valley of Orizaba, and is a must-see for any visitor to Mexico City. Revolutionist Emiliano Zapata had breakfast here during his entrance to Mexico City in September 1916. This was the first store of the Mexican Sanborns chain, founded by the Sanborn brothers, American immigrants in Mexico City and later sold to Walgreens in 1946 and then to Grupo Carso in 1985. There are more than 100 Sanborns stores in the country today. }} * {{buy | name=Sanborns | alt=Casa Boker | url= | email= | address=Isabel la Católica 35 | lat=19.43244 | long=-99.13663 | directions=corner of 16 de Septiembre | phone=+52 55 5518 1038 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily | price= | image=Casa boker.JPG | wikidata=Q21484077 | content=This department store is housed in a building completed in 1900 named 'Casa Boker' after a warehouse store with that name that still occupies part of the building. }} * {{buy | name=El Nuevo Mundo | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/elnuevomundomx/ | email= | address=Venustiano Carranza 72 | lat=19.43131 | long=-99.13470 | directions=corner of 5 de Febrero | phone=+52 55 5130 0353 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Still contains old fashioned practices such as old-style shopping processes. When decide to buying something, the salesman will prepare a small receipt, then you take it to the cashier to pay. }} * {{buy | name=C&A | alt= | url=http://www.cyamoda.com/ | email= | address=Venustiano Carranza 79 | lat=19.43089 | long=-99.13432 | directions=corner of 5 de Febrero | phone=+52 55 5130 0360 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 11:00-21:00 | price= | content=Netherlands-based department store fashion retailer. }} ===Bakeries=== [[File:Pasteleria Ideal Exhibit.jpg|thumb|Cakes on display at Pasteleria Ideal]] * {{buy | name=Pastelería Ideal | alt= | url=http://pasteleriaideal.com.mx/ | email= | address=República de Uruguay 74 | lat=19.43044 | long=-99.13532 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5512 2522 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Pasteleriaideal.JPG | hours=Daily 06:30-21:30 | price= | content=Established in 1927. This is a good place for traditional bread, pastries and desserts. Ask for ''Danes de Chocolate'', the place's delicacy. There is another branch at Av 16 de Septiembre 18 which makes cakes on commission. }} * {{buy | name=Pasteleria Madrid | alt= | url=https://pasteleria-madrid.negocio.site/ | address=Calle 5 de Febrero 25 | lat=19.42994649180818 | long=-99.13489160483107 | directions=one block south off the main plaza in downtown Mexico | phone=+52 55 5518 2950 | hours=M-Sa 07:30-21:00, Su 08:00 - 20:00 | content=This is a very old and typical bakery, they will usually have fresh bread twice a day, but if there are a lot of customers they will bake as many as four times a day. Also serves breakfast platters, pastries and pan dulce. }} ===Shopping malls=== There are a few shopping malls in and around the Centro Histórico. * {{buy | name=Forum Buenavista | alt= | url=http://www.forumbuenavista.mx/content/ | email= | address=Avda Insurgentes | lat=19.4492 | long=-99.1518 | directions=corner of Eje 1; metro Buenavista | phone=+52 5541 4533 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-10-23 | content=The largest shopping mall close to the centro. Includes a large supermarket, a Sears department store, and a Cinepolis cinema complex. This mall is inside the Buenavista train station, which has frequent train service provided by Ferrocarril Suburbano as well as three Metro subway lines and numerous Metrobus connections. }} * {{buy | name=Patio Juárez | alt= | url= | email= | address=Avda Juárez | lat=19.43421 | long=-99.14330 | directions=just across from the Alameda Central Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=A small shopping mall. }} ==Eat== [[File:Cafe de Tacuba 02.jpg|thumb|Café de Tacuba]] [[File:Hostería de Santo Domingo 1.jpg|thumb|Chiles en nogada, one of the signature dishes of Hostería de Santo Domingo]] ===Street food=== There are many places of street food in the center. * {{eat | name=Street Food alley | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.4383747 | long=99.1536558 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content=There is a big variety of street food. They are open daily between 08:00 and 20:00}} * {{eat | name=Food stall market | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.4369346 | long=-99.1420613 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content=At different times there are other food stalls open.}} * {{eat | name=Cocuyo's | alt= | url= | address=Bolivar 59 | lat=19.43054187297953 | long=-99.13881984711838 | directions=Metro to San Juan de Letran | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:00 - 05:00 (yes, they only close for 3 hours) | price=M$100 | lastedit=2024-01-28 | content=One of Mexico City's ''many'' famous taco stands, Cocuyo's has been featured on international food shows including Anthony Bourdain's ''No Reservations'' and the Netflix series, ''Taco Chronicles''. The place has changed since Bourdain visited. They now have a dining room so you no longer have to stand on the street while you eat your taco, but the tacos are big and tasty as ever and they're still open in the wee hours of the night when those 3am munchies strike. Feel free to be adventurous and try something you've never heard of, but do be aware that some of those "unusual sounding" tacos contain gizzards, tongue, ears or other parts of the animal unfamiliar to foreign visitors. They might be delicious, but are you bold enough to find out? }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Don Toribio | alt= | url= | email= | address=Simon Bolivar 31 | lat=19.432991 | long=-99.138691 | directions=Metro to Allende (line 2) | phone=+52 55 5510 9198 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00 - 18:00 | price=M$100 | lastedit=2024-01-12 | content=Delicious traditional Mexican cuisine at some of the best prices in Centro. }} * {{eat | name=Roldan 37 | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Roldan37/ | email= | address=Calle Roldan 37 | lat=19.428971 | long=-99.127119 | directions=Metro to Pino Suarez or Merced | phone=+52 55 5542 1951 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 12:00 - 19:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-01-28 | content=Cozy upstairs restaurant specializing in chiles rellenos, including the national dish of chile en nogada. Very authentic cooking with several regional dishes based on indigenous traditions, and sometimes unusual ingredients that will offend the tastes of unsuspecting foreigners who might not appreciate the chance to eat grasshoppers. Though rest assured, there are plenty of "normal" dishes to choose from. }} * {{eat | name=Cafe el Popular | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. 5 de Mayo 50 y 52 | lat=19.434502 | long=-99.135495 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5518 6081 | tollfree= | hours=Open 24 hours | price= | lastedit=2024-01-28 | content=Long-time fixture in the heart of downtown, about a block from the Zocalo and the Catedral. Traditional homemade Mexican food including fresh baked breads, though the restaurant is historically Chinese and once served hybrid Mexicanized Chinese dishes. The place is known for its coffee and of course is a dependable source of good, hearty food when the midnight munchies strike. }} ===Barrio Chino (Chinatown)=== Mexico City's Barrio Chino (Chinatown) is in the Centro Historico near the Palacio de Bellas Artes. Mexican-style Chinese food is quite good and is an affordable lunch for before or after a visit to Palacio de Bellas Artes or the Museo Nacional de Arte. Restaurants in Barrio China include: * {{eat | name=Chung King | address=Dolores 27, Centro | lat=19.432618629205628 | long=-99.14291483481755 | phone=+52 55 5510 3355 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:00 - 20:00 | price= | lasted it=2024-10-21 | content=Generous plates, many of which are ramen. Spicy red chili sauce is provided for people who want to take the flavor up a notch. }} * {{eat | name=Kang Qing | address=Av Independencia 19, Colonia Centro | lat=19.433397686433516 | long=-99.14255005439284 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:30 - 18:30, Su 13:00 - 17:00 | price=M$65 | lasted it=2024-10-21 | content=Buffet style restaurant with to-go service at 65 pesos, making it very cheap for a lot of food. }} * {{eat | name=Bufet Comida China | address=C. López 12-14, Colonia Centro | lat=19.433812507588524 | long=-99.14192778190365 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:00 - 20:00 | price=M$100 | lasted it=2024-10-21 | content=Chinese buffet serving lots of food at low prices. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=El Huequito Bolivar | url=https://es-la.facebook.com/pages/El-Huequito-MR/232928666766936 | email=tacosysalsas@elhuequito.com.mx | address=República de El Salvador 42 D| lat=19.43008 | long=-99.13870 | directions=corner of Republica del Salvador | phone=+52 55 5510 4199 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-23:00 | price= | content=This taco joint is good if you want to try ''tacos al pastor'', as featured in Anthony Bourdain's Mexico show. }} * {{eat | name=Cafeteria El Cuadrilatero | alt= | url=https://es-es.facebook.com/pages/cafeteria-el-cuadrilatero/149151765160753 | email=ferraripom_619@hotmail.com | address=Luis Moya 73 | lat=19.4305 | long=-99.1457 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5510 2856 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 07:00-20:00 | price=M$50+ | image=Cafeteria El Cuadrilatero.jpg | content=This torteria is owned by former luchador Super Astro, and serves not only tortas but also standard Mexican fare. Their enormous torta ''Super Gladiator'' is free if you can eat the whole thing in 15 minutes. }} * {{eat | name=La Opera Bar | url=http://laoperabar.com/ | email= | address=Cinco de Mayo 10 | lat=19.43454 | long=-99.13735 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5512 8959 | tollfree= | fax= | image=La Opera Bar.jpg | hours=M-Sa 13:00-24:00, Su 13:00-18:00 | price= | content=This restaurant has been serving Mexican food since the early 1900s and retains the same furniture since then. When you get there, look up to the ceiling, as you will see the famous gun shot accidentally fired by Pancho Villa. }} * {{eat | name=Café el Popular | url=https://m.facebook.com/Caf%C3%A9-El-Popular-Restaurante-133538756708877/ | email= | address=Cinco de Mayo 52 | lat=19.43427 | long=-99.13528 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5518 6081 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Café El Popular.jpg | hours=Daily 24 hrs | price= | content=A quintessential breakfast joint offering a range of tasty egg dishes for well under US$4 and surrealistically low chrome ceilings. }} * {{eat | name=El Ehden | alt= | url= | email= | address=Venustiano Carranza 148, 2nd floor | lat=19.43065 | long=-99.12922 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5542 2320 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 13:00-18:00 | price= | content=This restaurant is favored by the local Mexican-Lebanese community, many of whom still own the small businesses and textile shops in the immediate area. It serves a range of standard Lebanese dishes, including an excellent mezze. }} * {{eat | name=El Mayor | alt= | url=http://elmayor.com.mx/ | email=elmayor@porrua.com | address=Calle República de Argentina #15 | lat=19.43583 | long=-99.13145 | directions=entrance via a lift by the gift shop on the ground floor | phone=+52 55 5704 7580, +52 55 5704 7584 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-18:30, Su 10:00-18:30 | price=M$150+ mains | lastedit=2016-05-27 | content=A newer rooftop establishment with great seating overlooking the Templo Mayor, this restaurant specializes in creative twists to traditional Mexican dishes. It's very popular for lunch, so it's best to arrive early. }} * {{eat | name=Hostería de Santo Domingo | alt= | url= | email= | address=Belisario Domínguez 70-72 | lat=19.43806 | long=-99.13497 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5510 1434 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-22:30, Su 09:00-21:00 | price=M$120+ mains | image=Hostería de Santo Domingo 1.jpg | content=Housed in a former inn, this restaurant opened in 1860 and is the oldest restaurant in Mexico City. It serves classic traditional Mexican dishes in a lively atmosphere, and is very popular with residents. }} * {{eat | name=El Cardenal | alt= | url=http://www.restauranteelcardenal.com/ | email= | address=Calle de la Palma 23, Centro Histórico | lat=19.433842 | long=-99.135413 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5521 3080 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:00 - 18:30 | price= | lastedit=2024-01-27 | content=Upscale dining room serving outstanding regional and traditional Mexican cuisine. The restaurant has been a favorite of businessmen and politicos for generations. The food is always excellent, as is the service. They bake their own breads, offer several moles, offer unusual entrees, and are famous for their hot chocolate. Can be crowded weekdays for lunch and Sunday mornings. This listing is near the Zocalo, other locations are 1) about 100 meters from Palacio de Bellas Artes at Marconi 2, and 2) at the Sheraton hotel. }} * {{eat | name=Dulcería de Celaya | url=http://www.dulceriadecelaya.com/Dulceria_de_Celaya/INICIO.html | email= | address=Cinco de Mayo 39 | lat=19.43419 | long=-99.13664 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5521 1787 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Dulcería de Celaya.jpg | hours=Daily 10:30-19:30 | price= | content=This confectionery shop sells old fashioned sweets. It was established in 1874 and still has its original cabinets from that age. }} * {{eat | name=Limosneros | alt= | url=https://limosneros.com.mx/?lang=en | email= | address=Ignacio Allende 3 | lat=19.436249 | long=-99.137897 | directions=Metro station Allende | phone=+52 55 5521 5576 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 13:30 - 22:00, Su 13:00 - 17:00 | price=M$250 | lastedit=2024-01-27 | content=Elegantly rustic dining room with innovative regional cuisine and a full bar with a variety of mezcals, tequilas, and an excellent wine list featuring many great Baja vintages. Adventurous palates shouild try the carnitas de conejo. }} * {{eat | name=Paxia | alt= | url=https://bullandtank.com/paxia | email= | address=Venustiano Carranza 69 | lat=19.431341 | long=-99.135726 | directions=rooftop of the Umbral Hotel | phone=+52 55 2289 6295 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 13:00 - 23:00, Su 13:00 - 19:00, closed M | price=M$300 | lastedit=2024-01-28 | content=Elegant rooftop restaurant with innovative nuevo Mexican cuisine and spectacular views of the historic downtown area. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Café de Tacuba | alt= | url=https://cafedetacuba.info/ | email=mflores@cafedetacuba.com.mx | address=Calle de Tacuba 28 | lat=19.43576 | long=-99.13762 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5521 2048 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-23:30 | price=M$115-180 (mains) | image=Cafe de Tacuba 02.jpg | wikidata=Q5739201 | content=Housed in a former convent, this institution serves up tasty Mexican dishes all day for reasonable prices. It is very popular so arrive early. Menu is in English and Spanish. }} * {{eat | name=La Terraza | alt= | url=http://hotelmajestic.com.mx/HotelMajestic/Restaurante | email= | address=Francisco I Madero 73 | lat=19.43298 | long=-99.13434 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5521 8600 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:00-23:00 | price= | content=Restaurant on the roof of the Hotel Majestic overlooking the Zócalo, with stunning panoramic views of the city. }} * {{eat | name=Los Girasoles | alt= | url=https://losgirasolesmexico.com/ | email= | address=Xicoténcatl 1 | lat=19.436181 | long=-99.138179 | directions=on the plaza next to Museo Nacional de Arte | phone=+52 55 5510 0630 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-03 | content=Traditional Mexican cuisine from various regions. Expect dishes like mole oaxqueno and if you're adventurous, chapulines. Pleasant outdoor patio on a plaza made for people watching. Mariachis on weekends. }} * {{eat | name=Miralto | alt= | url=http://miralto.com.mx/ | email= | address=Torre Latinoamericana, 41st floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+52 55 5518 1710 | tollfree= | hours=Su-M 09:00 - 22:00, Tu-Th 09:00 - 23:00, F-Sa 09:00 - 00:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-02-09 | content=Many places in the Centro Historico boast of the views from their rooftop dining rooms, but Miralto in the 41st floor of the Torre Latinoamericana looks down on all of them. Best views of any dining room in the city. Traditional Mexican cuisine is good, but unexceptional compared to the city's top restaurants. }} * {{eat | name=Azul Histórico | alt= | url=https://www.azul.rest | email= | address=Isabel La Católica 30 | lat=19.432819 | long=-99.135983 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5510 1316 | tollfree= | hours=09:00-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-06-02 | content=Azul offers upscale Mexican cuisine in a romantic Centro courtyard with lush trees and stone archways. }} * {{eat | name=Masala y Maiz | alt= | url=https://www.masalaymaiz.com/ | email= | address=C. Artículo 123 #116, Colonia Centro, Centro | lat=19.433198 | long=-99.148983 | directions= | phone=+52 55 6227 9468 | tollfree= | hours=W-M 12:00 - 18:00, closed Tu | price=M$1000 | lastedit=2025-06-05 | content=Elegant restaurant serving a fusion of contemporary Mexican cuisine with flavors and ingredients from Africa and India. Dishes are often unusual combinations like a paratha quesadilla, or a chai tres leches. Service is top notch. Reservations recommended. The restaurant was awarded a Michelin star in 2025. }} ==Drink== The Centro Histórico is the best place to partake in traditional cantina fare, including drinks where light meals and appetizers, called botanas, are served alongside for free. There are cantinas everywhere in the neighborhood, all with interesting historical significance, live music, and interesting business types from the area. They are typically a male hangout, but women are accepted and safe, just be prepared to get some special attention if you show up. For nonalcoholic refreshments, juguerias selling twenty kinds of smoothies from M$25 are found on nearly every block during the day. For a genuine Mexican experience, visit a ''pulqueria'' and try a traditional regional drink made from fermented agave --- only in Mexico! * {{drink | name=Salón Tenampa | alt= | url=http://www.salontenampa.com/ | email= | address=Plaza Garibaldi 12 | lat=19.44106 | long=-99.13896 | directions=in the corner of Plaza Garibaldi | phone=+52 55 5526 6176 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 13:00-01:00, F Sa 13:00-02:00 | price= | image=GaribaldiNight04.JPG | lastedit=2017-01-29 | content=The original and most famous Mexican cantina, traditional home to the bohemians and mariachis of the 40s and 50s. Huge selection of tequila and mezcal, light Mexican food, and mariachi bands. }} * {{drink | name=La Opera | alt= | url=https://www.laoperabar.com/ | email= | address=Av. 5 de Mayo 10, Historico Centro | lat=19.434910 | long=-99.138922 | directions=1 block south of Museo de Arte or Palacio Postal, 2 blocks east of the Alameda | phone=+52 55 5512 8959 | tollfree= | hours=13:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-11-03 | content=Traditional bar dating back to the Porfiriato era (est. 1870), it's ornate and impressive to see, but a fun place to have a beer or a cocktail. Serves food. }} * {{drink | name=Salón España | alt= | url= | email= | address=Republica Argentina 25 | lat=19.436725 | long=-99.131707 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-28 | content=Old school traditional cantina where the tequila is strong and the men drink lots of it. They have mezcal and other liquors as well, but tequila is king here with more than 150 brands at your call! Free botanas (including tacos and quesadillas) while you continue drinking. }} * {{drink | name=Bar La Giaconda | alt= | url= | email= | address=C. de Filomeno Mata 18-E, Centro Histórico | lat=19.434939 | long=-99.139137 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5518 7823 | tollfree= | hours=15:00 - 23:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-04-06 | content=Casual place with good baguette sandwiches and dark draft beer. }} * {{drink | name=Sunday Sunday | address=Tabaqueros 16 | lat=19.43058640187497|long=-99.13149803613913 | hours=15:00 - 02:00 Sunday only, Closed M-Sa | lastedig=2023-10-04 | content=While the lightweights are nursing their hangovers on Sunday, the hardcore head to Mexico City's biggest Sunday night party where the house keeps rocking until 2am. The biggest crowds hit after midnight. }} * {{drink | name=Salon Corona | alt= | url=http://www.saloncorona.com.mx/ | email= | address=Bolivar 24 | lat=19.433649 | long=-99.138249 | directions=around the corner from Palacio de Iturbide, nearest Metro station is Allende | phone=+52 55 5512 5725 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10:00 - 23:00, F-Sa 10:00 - 02:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-01-28 | content=Friendly traditional cantina since 1928. Popular place to watch a soccer game or hang out and drink beer. Serves traditional Mexican food. }} * {{drink | name=La Faena | alt= | url= | email= | address=Venustiano Carranza 49 | lat=19.431642 | long=-99.137621 | directions=Metro to San Juan de Letran, (inside Mancera Bar) | phone=+52 55 5510 4417 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 13:00 - 20:00, F-Sa 13:00 - 10:30 (yep, they close for 2-1/2 hours to clean up) | price= | lastedit=2024-01-28 | content=Old school cantina that celebrates the hispanic tradition of [[Bullfighting|bullfighting]]. Campy wall decorations, a great jukebox full of classic Mexican rancheras, rock en espanol, and pop hits of the 90s. Cheap tacos, great variety of mezcal and tequila drinks, and a very lively crowd. }} * {{drink | name=Bosforo | alt= | url= | email= | address=Luis Moya 31 | lat=19.433499 | long=-99.145176 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Th-Sa 19:00 - 02:30, Tu 19:00 - 01:30, W 19:00 - 23:00, closed Su-M | price= | lastedit=2024-02-09 | content=Dim, smoky bar with a hipster crowd. No sign, so you need to know where it is then look for the curtain across the doorway. Go in and join the crowd in sampling one of the city's widest selection of mezcals. }} * {{drink | name=Cantina Tio Pepe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Independencia 26 | lat=19.433216 | long=-99.142861 | directions=Metro to Bella Artes | phone=+52 55 5521 9136 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 12:00 - 22:00, Sa 12:00 - 23:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-10-21 | content=Traditional cantina with an early 20th century vibe. Friendly atmosphere, occasional mariachis. In the Barrio Chino (Chinatown area). }} ====Pulquerias==== * {{drink | name=Pulquería Las Duelistas | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/PulqueriaLasDuelistas/ | email= | address=Aranda 28 | lat=19.430464 | long=-99.142737 | directions= | phone=+52 55 1394 0958 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:00 - 21:00, closed Su | price= | lastedit=2024-01-28 | content=Friendly and colorful traditional pulqueria (one of the most popular in the city) with murals on the ceiling and walls. Serves cured and white (blanco) pulques. Try a natural pulque to taste pure agave flavor, or try one of the fruit or spiced flavors. The celery (apio) is recommended. }} * {{drink | name=La Joya | alt= | url=https://pulquerialajoya.com.mx/ | address=Eligio Ancona 122, Santa Maria La Ribera | lat=19.452565060847384 | long=-99.15677137529288 | phone=+52 55 3148 7761 | hours=Th-M 12:00 - 23:00, closed Tu-W | price=M$200 | lastedit=2024-10-26 | content=This used to be the Xochitl Pulqueria, but it changed hands in 2020 while keeping the tacky decor and the limited menu of just the pulques, only the pulques, and nothing but pulques, so help me God. Natural and curadas are available with flavors that include spices, fruits, and nuts. }} ====[[LGBT Mexico City|LGBTQ+]]==== * {{drink | name=Marrakech Salon | alt=El Marra | url= | email= | address=República de Cuba 18 | lat=19.437762 | long=-99.138411 | directions=from Palacio de Bellas Artes, walk 2 blocks on Lazaro Cardenas to Rep.Cuba where you'll make a right and walk about 100 m | phone=+52 55 5518 3711 | tollfree= | hours=18:00 - 02:30, Thursday-Saturday only | price= | lastedit=2023-01-11 | content=Wonderfully tacky flaming gay bar with drag queens and strippers for entertainment, no cover charge for anyone, and some delicious house mezcal drinks. Try the El Mayate --- minty and refreshing! }} * {{drink | name=La Purisima | alt= | url= | email= | address=Republica de Cuba 17 | lat=19.437762 | long=-99.138411 | directions=across the street from Marrakech Salon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=18:00 - 03:00, Thursday-Saturday only | price=no cover | lastedit=2024-04-09 | content=Delightfully tacky strip shows and disco balls. ''Very'' friendly crowd. }} ====Coffee==== * {{drink | name=Cafe Equis | alt=X, La Casa del Cafe | address=Calle de Roldán 16, Centro Histórico | lat=19.430453691089138 | long=-99.12682970412797 | phone=+52 55 5522 4263 | hours=Tu-Su 10:00 - 14:00 and 14:30 - 17:00, closed M | price=M$100 | lastedit=2025-05-13 | content=In business at the same location since 1930, this is Mexico City's oldest coffee house. They roast their own beans, specializing in organic Mexican-grown coffees. Cups of joe are also available for as little as M$15. The Cafe Veracruzano is sinfully delicious with a flavor of caramelized burnt sugar. Cash only. }} * {{drink | name=Cafe Regina | alt= | url= | address=Regina 24, Centro Historico | lat=19.42841930799818 | long=-99.13784489051588 | phone=+52 55 5709 2436 | hours=M-Th 08:30 - 18:00, F-Sa 08:30 - 20:00, Su 09:00 - 13:00 | lastedit=2025-05-13 | content=Good coffee drinks plus hot chocolate and tea. Light food available including baked goods and vegetarian dishes like ratatouille. }} * {{drink | name=Café La Habana | alt= | url= | email= | address=Av. Morelos 62, Colonia Juárez, Cuauhtémoc | lat=19.43257 | long=-99.15132 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5535 2620 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 07:00-00:00, Su 08:00-23:00 | price=M$69–140 for breakfast packages, coffee from M$30 | lastedit=2025-06-02 | content=Opened in 1952, this iconic café is a nostalgic gem, steeped in history as a meeting place for revolutionaries like Fidel Castro and Che Guevara, who reportedly planned the Cuban Revolution here, and literary giants like Gabriel García Márquez and Roberto Bolaño, who frequented it during the 1970s infrarrealist movement. With its high ceilings, sepia-toned photos of Havana, and vintage coffee machine, it retains a 1950s ambiance. The menu features classic Mexican dishes like enchiladas and chilaquiles, but the coffee—especially the café lechero (espresso with hot milk) or café bombón (double espresso with ground coffee)—is the star. While food quality varies, the historic atmosphere makes it a must-visit. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== There are several low-priced decent hotels with hot water and private bathroom for around M$320 (April 2022). ====in the middle of the centro:==== * {{sleep | name=Hotel San Francisco | alt= | url=http://www.hotelsanfranciscomexico.mx/ | email= | address=Luis Moya 11, Centro | lat=19.434381 | long=-99.144981 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5521 8960 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$700 | lastedit=2023-04-06 | content=Sparsely furnished, inexpensive rooms across the street from the Alameda and around the corner from the Museo Memoria y Tolerancia. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Tuxpan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Republica de Colombia | lat=19.4383415| long= -99.1326528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content=A very good deal that is only a few blocks to the Zocalo. Clean with cable TV, nice restrooms, and mirrors on the ceiling.}} * {{sleep | name=Mexico City Hostel | alt= | url=http://www.mexicocityhostel.com/ | email=reservaciones@mexicocityhostel.com | address=República de Brasil #8 | lat=19.435647 | long=-99.133791 | directions=northwest corner of Catedral Metropolitana, metro Allende or Zócalo, line #2 blue | phone=+52 55 5512-3666, +52 55 5512-7731 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=M$500 | lastedit=2023-04-06 | content=Close to the Zócalo in the Historic Center. Breakfast included, Internet, laundry, lockers, tours and tourist information. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Altanta | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.4380823| long= -99.1376099 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content=}} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Dos Naciones | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.4388433 | long= -99.1413938 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-12 | content=}} ====in the east of centro:==== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Tampico | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.4293656 | long= -99.1244590 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content=}} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Nevada | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.4323978 | long=-99.1274775 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content=}} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Universo | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.4296938 | long= -99.1251886 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content=}} ====in the west of the centro:==== * {{sleep | name=Hotel San Fernando | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.4386925 | long= -99.1477962| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content=}} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Savoy | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaragoza 10, Buenavista | lat=19.438579 | long=-99.150488 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5566 4611 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=M$850 | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel "Viva Maria" | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.4378455| long= -99.1531429 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content=}} * {{sleep | name= Hotel Oxford| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.4374936 | long= -99.1518920 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content=}} * {{sleep | name=Hotel La Fuente | alt= | url= | email= | address=C. Orozco y Berra 10, Guerrero | lat=19.439167 | long=-99.149468 | directions=west of the Alameda | phone=+52 55 5566 9122 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Casa de los Amigos | alt= | url=http://www.casadelosamigos.org/ | email=amigos@casadelosamigos.org | address=Ignacio Mariscal 132, Col Tabacalera | lat=19.438102 | long=-99.154549 | directions=one block south of Metro station Revolución, line #2 blue | phone=+52 55 5705 0521, +52 55 5705 0646 | tollfree= | fax=+52 55 5705 0771 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content=Established in the 1950s by the Quaker community in Mexico City, the Casa continues to be actively involved in local activities with a stated mission of promoting peace and international understanding. They run an affordable guest house (with either private rooms or dorm beds) with a two-night minimum, and is popular with international students or volunteers on extended stays, though there are still many who are "just tourists." }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral | alt= | url=http://www.mundojovenhostels.com/ | email=catedral@mundojovenhostels.com | address=República de Guatemala 4 | lat=19.435208 | long=-99.133684 | directions=north side of Catedral main square, metro Zócalo, line #2 blue | phone=+52 55 5518 1726 | tollfree=01 800 823 2410 | fax= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=11:00| price= | lastedit=2022-04-14 | content=A clean and safe upscale hostel. Some rooms have partial views of the rear of the cathedral, but these are noisy due to the church bells. Discount with a Hosteling International card. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Juarez | alt= | url=http://www.hoteljuarez.com.mx/ | email= | address=1A Cjon De Cinco de Mayo 17 | lat=19.434777 | long=-99.135336 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5512 0568 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$500 | lastedit=2023-04-06 | content=Just east of the intersection of 5 de Mayo and Isabel la Catolica, a well taken care of hotel. Large rooms, TV, phone (free local calls) and private bathroom, very central location, 2-minute walk to Zocalo and Catedral Metropolitano. Rooms may not all have windows. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Principal | alt= | url= | email=reservacion@hotelprincipal.com | address=Calle de Bolívar 29 | lat=19.432912 | long=-99.138705 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5521 1333 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Clean, friendly, and well run hotel with a range of rooms. Most overlook a quiet inner courtyard. }} * {{sleep | name=Cadillac Hotel Boutique | alt= | url=https://cadillacdowntown.mx/ | email= | address=Izazaga 35, Centro | lat=19.426317 | long=-99.140080 | directions= | phone=+52 55 1106 8621 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$1000 | lastedit=2023-04-06 | content=Stylish artsy place, very modern with excellent free breakfast. No A/C so better choice for winter than summer. Easy walking distance to historical sites and museums. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Metropol | alt= | url=http://www.hotelmetropol.com.mx/ | email= | address=Luis Moya 39, Centro | lat=19.433218 | long=-99.145164 | directions=1 block south of the Alameda | phone=+52 55 1085 0830 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=M$1200 | lastedit=2023-04-06 | content=Dated hotel that could use some redecorating tips, but rooms are spacious, they serve a buffet breakfast and the location is convenient: 5-minute walk to Juarez Metro station, 5-minute walk to the Alameda or Palacio de Bellas Artes. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Gran Vitral Tiffany del Hotel Ciudad de Mexico - panoramio.jpg|thumb|Tiffany glass ceiling in the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico]] *{{sleep | name=Gran Hotel Ciudad de México | url=https://granhoteldelaciudaddemexico.com.mx/en/ | email= | address=82 Av. 16 de Septiembre | lat=19.43208 | long=-99.13459 | directions= | phone=+52 55 1083 7700 | tollfree=+1 844-324-5006 | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Also known as "Centro Mercantil", this building built in 1899 was once a luxurious shopping center. It was converted into a hotel in 1966. The lobby of this place was featured in the film "Frida". }} *{{sleep | name=El patio 77 | alt= | url=http://www.elpatio77.com/ | email=elpatio77@gmail.com | address=García Icazbalceta, 77, Col San Rafael | lat=19.441769 | long=-99.164162 | directions=3 blocks from metro station San Cosme, line #2 blue | phone=+52 55 55928452, +52 15554550332 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=M$1400+ | content=El patio 77 is the first eco-friendly B&B in Mexico City. This only 8 rooms' eco-friendly B&B is a huge French style mansion from the 19th century. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western Hotel Majestic | alt= | url=https://hotelmajestic.com.mx/HotelMajestic/Inicio/ | email=reservaciones@hotelmajestic.com.mx | address=Av Madero 73 | lat=19.43293 | long=-99.13439 | directions= | phone=+52 55 5521 8600 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=M$1400 | lastedit=2023-04-06 | content=The location is great, the rooms are clean and comfortable but the service is vaudevillian. The restaurant on the top floor has a superb view of the Cathedral and Presidential Palace but the food isn't worthy of the atmosphere. }} ==Stay safe== Overall, walking in the Centro Historico is safe, but it's an area where you need to keep your eyes open, and be aware of your surroundings. The shopping streets and old department stores are fun, but be aware that shops close down noticeably earlier than in other places, and the streets begin to become quiet by 21:00 most nights. The Centro becomes ritzier going west toward the Zona Rosa, and grittier going east toward the Merced and Sonora markets. A conservative suggestion would be to avoid the areas east of the Zócalo after dark and avoid the Tepito neighborhood at all times (locals go there for cheap bootleg goods, but foreigners are more likely to have their pockets picked than to get a bargain). Plaza Garibaldi has been a sketchy place, but since 2020 the city has stepped up police presence there and has been cleaning up the plaza after several years of declining tourist traffic. There's still plenty of mariachis there and plenty of tequila and tacos, but it's another area where you might want to visit during daylight hours, stick to places with lots of people, and avoid excessive drinking. ==Connect== Cell phone services in Mexico City are excellent. 5G coverage is the norm as of 2023, particularly with Telcel, and dark spots with no coverage are virtually unheard of in Centro Historico. Free Wifi is available at most hotels, restaurants and other tourist spots. The city government provides free Wifi service to everyone in public parks and plazas, including the Alameda in Centro Historico. {{guidedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Mexico City}} {{geo|19.432778|-99.133222}} cqmpyiorihuyhdmn75ny522iorlcuvp 0 22332 5091164 4978711 2025-07-11T02:57:09Z DaGizza 162256 /* See */ Updated listing for Caves of the old Forge 5091164 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Mijas town view.jpg}} '''Mijas''' is a town and municipality in the [[Costa del Sol]] in southern [[Spain]]. It consists of ''Mijas Pueblo'' a typically Andalusian white-washed village located at the mountain side of Sierra de Mijas 428 m above mean sea level. ==Understand== [[File:Mijas_10.jpg|thumb|300px|Mijas.]] Everything outside Mijas Pueblo is called ''Mijas Costa'', the main villages: the more industrial area ''Las Lagunas'' that's the most populated part of Mijas and it is totally integrated with [[Fuengirola]]. ''La Cala de Mijas'' is the main beach resort. Other smaller beach resorts are ''Riviera del Sol'' and ''Calahonda''. According to the INE census of 2017, Mijas has 77,151 inhabitants, which makes it the fourth largest municipality of the province. This is concentrated in three main urban centres: Mijas Pueblo, on the hillside of the Sierra de Mijas, the historic centre of the municipality; Las Lagunas, in the area called Mijas Costa, is part of the urban continuum of the city of Fuengirola; and La Cala de Mijas, a coastal town. The surface of the municipal term is of 148 km ² and it extends from the coastal saws of the Penibética to the Mediterranean Sea. Its history dates back to antiquity, with Phoenician and Roman remains, however, in modernity Mijas was a small town dedicated mainly to agriculture and fishing until the explosion of the tourist boom in the 1950s. Since then, the activity tourist and the construction sector have been the engines of the local economy, shooting at the same time population and per capita income. Today it is a multicultural municipality with a percentage of residents of foreign origin and one of the main centres of residential tourism in Andalusia. ==Get in== {{mapframe}} From the main bus station in [[Fuengirola]] there are various ways you can get to Mijas and Mijas Costa. Mijas is served by a regular bus service (bus number 122 which terminates in Mijas village itself or number 221 which continues on to Coín) from the main bus station in Fuengirola. The cost of the journey is €1.30. To travel to Mijas Costa or La Cala De Mijas catch the Marbella bus No 220 which stops in La Cala De Mijas, and various other parts of Mijas Costa, Calahonda, Riviera Del Sol and [[Miraflores]]. Again the cost of the journey is approx €1.50. == Get around == == See == * {{See|name=Tourist information office|lat=36.596031819639876|long=-4.636409204246978|directions=Pueblo: Central tourist area, near donkeys and horses.|lastedit=2024-02-08|content=English speaking staff are helpful, get the free map of the highlights of the town in multiple languages, great view nearby, donkey monument is popular photo opportunity.}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Mijas Pueblo | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.5998 | long=-4.6322| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Donkey cart ride sign shows E15 for single, E20 for couple. | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-02-08 | content=Spectacular views of the African coastline, the Atlas mountains, Gibraltar and a good part of the Costa del Sol. The historical fort ruins offer a beautiful walk, with gardens, church, and ampitheatre. There is also the Mijas traditional bull ring and the famous plaza in the centre of the town where little donkey/horse trolleys can take you on a small trip around the village. There are hiking trails up the mountain to shrines. }} * {{see | name=Caves of the old Forge | alt= | url= | email= | address=C. Bo. de Santana, 4, 29650 Mijas, Málaga | lat=36.594339 | long=-4.642381 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | lastedit=2024-02-08 | content=Caves of the old forge / Cuevas de la Antigua Fragua. Three small caves with an anvil. It's an illustration of the actual caves that many of the original homes used in ancient times for stables or storage rooms which had a stable temperature. }} * '''Flamenco Dancers''' perform for an hour, on some days, in the public Plaza Virgen de la Peña near the donkeys. Check with the tourist bureau. * '''Hermitage of Our Lady of the Remedies''': Raised at the beginning of the 18th century, the reduced church presents a single ship with armor of parhilera, that becomes the greater chapel in vault of edge. Very restored, it keeps the sculpture of dress of the Virgen de los Remedios of the 18th century. * '''Hermitage of the Virgin of the Rock''': it is a cave hermitage excavated in the rock by a Carmelite brother between 1656 and 1682, to which a sacristy of irregular stone has been added, trying to simulate a natural work. The exterior of the feet made with the same intention, has access of half a point and small bulrush. In an irregular niche carved in the front is the Virgen de la Peña, patron saint of Mijas. * '''Church of San Sebastian''': its construction corresponds to the late seventeenth century, renovated on numerous occasions. It appears with a nave covered with a truss armor, a square main chapel with a hemispherical vault, and an arched vault with wall paintings of angels. * '''Parochial Church of the Immaculate Conception''' The Parochial Church of the Immaculate Conception was consecrated in 1631, it is in the upper area of ​​the town and on the ruins of the old mosque from which its Mudejar tower was used to fulfill the functions of a belfry. * '''Hermitage of Calvary''': built around 1710 at the foot of the Sierra de Mijas, the removal of the Carmelite monks who lived in the hospice and the Monastery of Compás. * '''Hermitage of San Antón:''' a single ship built in the 18th century. The size of the Saint is made of polychrome wood from the same period. It opens to the public on January 17, patron saint of San Antón. * '''The Gardens of the Wall''' in Mijas is about gardens built on the remains of the old fortress that surrounded the town. [[File:Church_of_Santa_Ana,_Mijas.jpg|thumb| Church in Mijas]] * '''The Max Carrousel of Mijas''': Miniatures Museum collects a collection of miniature items that includes a "Head of a white man reduced by the gíbaros", the portrait of "Abraham Lincoln" made in painting on the head of a pin, the "Our Father" written on the chant of a business card, the representation of "The Seven Wonders of the World" carved on a toothpick and the "Last Supper of Leonardo Da Vinci" on a bead of rice, among other things. * '''The Historical Museum of Mijas''': inaugurated in 1995, it contains a collection of farming tools, fishing, oil mills, a winery, typical Mijeña cuisine, etc. In addition, itinerant art collections and local crafts are also exhibited. * '''Mirajas Towers of Mijas''' are four towers beacons that were part of an old coastal defensive line along the Andalusian Mediterranean coast. '''From east to west''': Torre de Calaburras, Torre Nueva of La Cala del Moral, Battery Tower of La Cala del Moral and Torre de Calahonda. * {{see | name=Torres Vigía Interpretation Centre | alt=Coastal Mijas | url= | email= | address=C. Moclinejo del Faro, s/n, 29649 Las Lagunas de Mijas, Málaga | lat=36.511155 | long=-4.639407 | directions= | phone=+34 685549894 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-08 | content=in the New Tower of La Cala del Moral: it contains a sample of the origin of the surveillance of the coastline, the resources used, reproductions at the scale of the 4 Mijas towers and historical texts. The towers of Calaburras in Spain were part of a coastal defense system that was built to protect the area from the attacks of pirates and invaders from North Africa. The towers were used to communicate with each other by fire signals, and later by cannons, to warn of the presence of enemy ships and to coordinate the response of the coastal guards. The towers also served as lookout posts and shelters for the soldiers and tower keepers who manned them. The towers of Calaburras date back to the 16th century,. }} == Beaches == These beaches pertain to the coastal part of Mijas not to be confused with the Pueblo Mijas. * '''Beaches''' - the 12-km coastline offers nine beaches, with those in La Cala the Mijas having the blue European quality flag. Mijas is up in the sierra mountains but the beach can be accessed by driving down to town of Fuengirola which is right at the coastline. The trip down is around 15 km. * '''Cala de Mijas''': The Cala de Mijas is an urban beach with dark, medium-grained sand and some rocky areas and a high degree of occupation. It measures 1.6 km in length and it waves the blue flag. * '''Cabo Rocoso beach in Mijas''': Cabo Rocoso beach in Mijas is a beach of dark sand of medium grain and moderate waves. It is a semiurban beach with a low occupation degree and about 100 m in length. You can practice windsurfing, sailing and diving. * '''Calahonda Beach''': One of the best beaches on the Costa del Sol, Calahonda beach, you can practice diving and fishing for its crystal clear waters. On the beach of Calahonda. We will find a golden sand of medium grain and calm waters. It is a semi-urban beach with a high occupation gradient and about 4.5 km in length. * '''Playa del Bombo ''' emi-urban beach with dark sand next to a cliff, making it ideal for scuba diving. It is 1.1 km long and a high degree of occupation. * '''Playa del Chaparral ''' Chaparral Beach is a semi-urban beach with rocks and moderate waves. It has an average occupation degree and 4.4 km in length. Possibility of windsurfing, sailing and diving. * '''Playa del Faro''': Rocky enclave with multiple coves of fine sand. Fishing underwater and with cane is practiced. It is 1.4 km long and has a low occupancy level. == Do == * '''Rock climbing/Bouldering''' Parque Miralla, Mijas pueblo * '''Plaza de Toros/Bullring''' Mijas pueblo * '''Ethnological Museum of Mijas''' Mijas pueblo * '''Golf''' - Mijas has 7 Gglf courses and more are under construction. * '''Mijas Aqua Park''' in Las Lagunas. * '''Rent pedal boats, jet skis, parascending on the beach.''' * '''Visit the Roman ruins''' at the Torreblanca end of Los Boliches * '''[[Benalmádena]] port and the aquarium (about 10 km away).''' * '''Train ride to Málaga.''' * '''Ferry cruise''' to [[Benalmádena]] [http://en.costasolcruceros.com/boat-excursions/services/] {{dead link|December 2020}}. * '''Feria week''' in mid-October every year. A mixture of music, flamenco, religion, horses, eating and drinking See the Spanish at play, when they party they do it seriously. * '''Play golf''' at one of the many courses within easy reach.No absolutely no to any 26 handicapers, bandits * '''Mijas Burrotaxis''': If you go to Mijas you can not miss the Burrotaxis. Burrotaxis is a peculiar transport method of Mijas, which appeared at the end of the 1950s, as a result of the fact that some workers from the quarries who returned to their homes on donkeys, were required by tourists to take photographs or take a walk. * '''Biennial of the Villa de Mijas art''' that is celebrated between October and November the first and in June the second. * '''Villa de Mijas theater festival''', which is held in June the second. * '''Flamenco Festival''', in August * '''Latin Night''' in August * '''Calapop Festival''' in August * '''Celtic Night''', in August bands of bagpipes from Gibraltar and northern Spain play. * '''Mijas Jazz Festival''', in autumn. * '''Other cultural events ''' are the Fair of Tales, the Literary Contest of Love Letters, the Market of the Senses and the International Day of the Peoples. * '''Beach activities:''' on the beaches you can practice water sports, rent water bikes, pedal boats, etc. == Buy == * '''Mijas Town''' - Mijas has many little independent traditional shops which sell mainly artisian decoration and decort such as hand made pottery, paintings, lots of souvenirs from Spain, and leather jackets and clothing. The shops have there displays outside on the white streets which makes Mijas also so very touristic and attractive. == Eat == There are lots of Spanish tapa bars in the area. You may need to look in the small corridors and streets for traditional good Mediterranean food. * '''Mirlo Blanco Restarante''' * '''Los Arcos''' == Drink == [[File:Calahonda,_Spain_2005_2.jpg|thumb|Sohail Castle]] '''Cruzcampo''' which is the traditional Spanish beer is served everywhere as is various Spanish wines. Again, lots of places to drink and eat. Mijas is not really a place for a mad drunken sleazy night out (the nearby town of Fuengirola is better for that), however there are many smaller bars and cafes where one can have a civilised drink. The Boveda del Flamenco bar is a fantastic little place, which used to be the old village jail. It is excellent to sit outside in the summer and watch the world going by. Although many local Spanish residents have their own ways of hanging out in Mijas, discothèques and others are not in the area except nearby cities. If you fancy something to eat or have a nice meal, there are many restaurants about. == Sleep == There are many other places where you can sleep or look for accommodation since everything is very nearby. * {{sleep | name=Hotel Mijas | alt= | url=http://www.hoteltrhmijas.com/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Provides superb accommodation. }} *'''[http://www.hoteltamisagolf.com/ Hotel Tamisa Golf]''' If you are looking for golfing accommodations in the area of Mijas, there is the Mijas golf course. * {{sleep | name=Casa Caleta | alt= | url=http://www.casacaleta.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Excellent family-run B&B in a Finca with fantastic views. }} * {{sleep | name = Apartamentos Torrenueva Park | url = https://www.torrenuevapark.com | address= Urb. Torrenueva Park Ctra. de Cádiz, Km 200 | content= | phone=+34 952 49 40 77 }} * {{sleep | name=Mijas costa Oasis Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.mijascostaoasis.com/ | email= | address=Calle Opalo, s/n | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 952 93 19 80 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel IPV Beatriz | alt=Hotel IPV Palace & Spa | url=http://www.hotelipvbeatrizpalace.com/en/ | email=reservas@hotelesipv.com | address=Ctra. A7. Km. 207 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 902 10 10 12 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-29 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Las piramides | alt= | url=http://www.hotellaspiramides.com/en/ | email=reservas@hotellaspiramides.com | address=C/ Miguel Marquez, 43 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 952 470 600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-29 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Apartments Ronda4 | alt= | url=http://www.apartamentosronda4.com/en/ | email=info@apartamentosronda4.com | address=Paseo Marítimo Rey de España, 96 CP 29640 Los Boliches, Fuengirola| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 952660716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-29 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Apartamentos Nuriasol | alt= | url=http://www.apartamentosnuriasol.com/en/ | email=reservas@apartamentosnuriasol.es | address=Avd. Francisco Rivera "Paquirri" 23-25 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 952663864 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-29 | content= }} *There are many options to rental self-catering villas in the area. You can check the [http://www.mijaslanueva.com/ following option] {{dead link|August 2018|December 2020}}. == Connect == As of Dec 2024, Mijas and its approach roads have 4G from MasMovil, Movistar and Orange, and 5G from Movistar. == Go next == {{outlinecity}} {{IsPartOf|Costa del Sol}} {{geo|36.595|-4.637}} dgjles95105a0h07h5l3oz380lxf05m 5091165 5091164 2025-07-11T02:57:35Z DaGizza 162256 /* See */ Updated listing for Tourist information office 5091165 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Mijas town view.jpg}} '''Mijas''' is a town and municipality in the [[Costa del Sol]] in southern [[Spain]]. It consists of ''Mijas Pueblo'' a typically Andalusian white-washed village located at the mountain side of Sierra de Mijas 428 m above mean sea level. ==Understand== [[File:Mijas_10.jpg|thumb|300px|Mijas.]] Everything outside Mijas Pueblo is called ''Mijas Costa'', the main villages: the more industrial area ''Las Lagunas'' that's the most populated part of Mijas and it is totally integrated with [[Fuengirola]]. ''La Cala de Mijas'' is the main beach resort. Other smaller beach resorts are ''Riviera del Sol'' and ''Calahonda''. According to the INE census of 2017, Mijas has 77,151 inhabitants, which makes it the fourth largest municipality of the province. This is concentrated in three main urban centres: Mijas Pueblo, on the hillside of the Sierra de Mijas, the historic centre of the municipality; Las Lagunas, in the area called Mijas Costa, is part of the urban continuum of the city of Fuengirola; and La Cala de Mijas, a coastal town. The surface of the municipal term is of 148 km ² and it extends from the coastal saws of the Penibética to the Mediterranean Sea. Its history dates back to antiquity, with Phoenician and Roman remains, however, in modernity Mijas was a small town dedicated mainly to agriculture and fishing until the explosion of the tourist boom in the 1950s. Since then, the activity tourist and the construction sector have been the engines of the local economy, shooting at the same time population and per capita income. Today it is a multicultural municipality with a percentage of residents of foreign origin and one of the main centres of residential tourism in Andalusia. ==Get in== {{mapframe}} From the main bus station in [[Fuengirola]] there are various ways you can get to Mijas and Mijas Costa. Mijas is served by a regular bus service (bus number 122 which terminates in Mijas village itself or number 221 which continues on to Coín) from the main bus station in Fuengirola. The cost of the journey is €1.30. To travel to Mijas Costa or La Cala De Mijas catch the Marbella bus No 220 which stops in La Cala De Mijas, and various other parts of Mijas Costa, Calahonda, Riviera Del Sol and [[Miraflores]]. Again the cost of the journey is approx €1.50. == Get around == == See == * {{see | name=Tourist information office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.596032 | long=-4.636409 | directions=Pueblo: Central tourist area, near donkeys and horses. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-08 | content=English speaking staff are helpful, get the free map of the highlights of the town in multiple languages, great view nearby, donkey monument is popular photo opportunity. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Mijas Pueblo | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.5998 | long=-4.6322| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Donkey cart ride sign shows E15 for single, E20 for couple. | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-02-08 | content=Spectacular views of the African coastline, the Atlas mountains, Gibraltar and a good part of the Costa del Sol. The historical fort ruins offer a beautiful walk, with gardens, church, and ampitheatre. There is also the Mijas traditional bull ring and the famous plaza in the centre of the town where little donkey/horse trolleys can take you on a small trip around the village. There are hiking trails up the mountain to shrines. }} * {{see | name=Caves of the old Forge | alt= | url= | email= | address=C. Bo. de Santana, 4, 29650 Mijas, Málaga | lat=36.594339 | long=-4.642381 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | lastedit=2024-02-08 | content=Caves of the old forge / Cuevas de la Antigua Fragua. Three small caves with an anvil. It's an illustration of the actual caves that many of the original homes used in ancient times for stables or storage rooms which had a stable temperature. }} * '''Flamenco Dancers''' perform for an hour, on some days, in the public Plaza Virgen de la Peña near the donkeys. Check with the tourist bureau. * '''Hermitage of Our Lady of the Remedies''': Raised at the beginning of the 18th century, the reduced church presents a single ship with armor of parhilera, that becomes the greater chapel in vault of edge. Very restored, it keeps the sculpture of dress of the Virgen de los Remedios of the 18th century. * '''Hermitage of the Virgin of the Rock''': it is a cave hermitage excavated in the rock by a Carmelite brother between 1656 and 1682, to which a sacristy of irregular stone has been added, trying to simulate a natural work. The exterior of the feet made with the same intention, has access of half a point and small bulrush. In an irregular niche carved in the front is the Virgen de la Peña, patron saint of Mijas. * '''Church of San Sebastian''': its construction corresponds to the late seventeenth century, renovated on numerous occasions. It appears with a nave covered with a truss armor, a square main chapel with a hemispherical vault, and an arched vault with wall paintings of angels. * '''Parochial Church of the Immaculate Conception''' The Parochial Church of the Immaculate Conception was consecrated in 1631, it is in the upper area of ​​the town and on the ruins of the old mosque from which its Mudejar tower was used to fulfill the functions of a belfry. * '''Hermitage of Calvary''': built around 1710 at the foot of the Sierra de Mijas, the removal of the Carmelite monks who lived in the hospice and the Monastery of Compás. * '''Hermitage of San Antón:''' a single ship built in the 18th century. The size of the Saint is made of polychrome wood from the same period. It opens to the public on January 17, patron saint of San Antón. * '''The Gardens of the Wall''' in Mijas is about gardens built on the remains of the old fortress that surrounded the town. [[File:Church_of_Santa_Ana,_Mijas.jpg|thumb| Church in Mijas]] * '''The Max Carrousel of Mijas''': Miniatures Museum collects a collection of miniature items that includes a "Head of a white man reduced by the gíbaros", the portrait of "Abraham Lincoln" made in painting on the head of a pin, the "Our Father" written on the chant of a business card, the representation of "The Seven Wonders of the World" carved on a toothpick and the "Last Supper of Leonardo Da Vinci" on a bead of rice, among other things. * '''The Historical Museum of Mijas''': inaugurated in 1995, it contains a collection of farming tools, fishing, oil mills, a winery, typical Mijeña cuisine, etc. In addition, itinerant art collections and local crafts are also exhibited. * '''Mirajas Towers of Mijas''' are four towers beacons that were part of an old coastal defensive line along the Andalusian Mediterranean coast. '''From east to west''': Torre de Calaburras, Torre Nueva of La Cala del Moral, Battery Tower of La Cala del Moral and Torre de Calahonda. * {{see | name=Torres Vigía Interpretation Centre | alt=Coastal Mijas | url= | email= | address=C. Moclinejo del Faro, s/n, 29649 Las Lagunas de Mijas, Málaga | lat=36.511155 | long=-4.639407 | directions= | phone=+34 685549894 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-08 | content=in the New Tower of La Cala del Moral: it contains a sample of the origin of the surveillance of the coastline, the resources used, reproductions at the scale of the 4 Mijas towers and historical texts. The towers of Calaburras in Spain were part of a coastal defense system that was built to protect the area from the attacks of pirates and invaders from North Africa. The towers were used to communicate with each other by fire signals, and later by cannons, to warn of the presence of enemy ships and to coordinate the response of the coastal guards. The towers also served as lookout posts and shelters for the soldiers and tower keepers who manned them. The towers of Calaburras date back to the 16th century,. }} == Beaches == These beaches pertain to the coastal part of Mijas not to be confused with the Pueblo Mijas. * '''Beaches''' - the 12-km coastline offers nine beaches, with those in La Cala the Mijas having the blue European quality flag. Mijas is up in the sierra mountains but the beach can be accessed by driving down to town of Fuengirola which is right at the coastline. The trip down is around 15 km. * '''Cala de Mijas''': The Cala de Mijas is an urban beach with dark, medium-grained sand and some rocky areas and a high degree of occupation. It measures 1.6 km in length and it waves the blue flag. * '''Cabo Rocoso beach in Mijas''': Cabo Rocoso beach in Mijas is a beach of dark sand of medium grain and moderate waves. It is a semiurban beach with a low occupation degree and about 100 m in length. You can practice windsurfing, sailing and diving. * '''Calahonda Beach''': One of the best beaches on the Costa del Sol, Calahonda beach, you can practice diving and fishing for its crystal clear waters. On the beach of Calahonda. We will find a golden sand of medium grain and calm waters. It is a semi-urban beach with a high occupation gradient and about 4.5 km in length. * '''Playa del Bombo ''' emi-urban beach with dark sand next to a cliff, making it ideal for scuba diving. It is 1.1 km long and a high degree of occupation. * '''Playa del Chaparral ''' Chaparral Beach is a semi-urban beach with rocks and moderate waves. It has an average occupation degree and 4.4 km in length. Possibility of windsurfing, sailing and diving. * '''Playa del Faro''': Rocky enclave with multiple coves of fine sand. Fishing underwater and with cane is practiced. It is 1.4 km long and has a low occupancy level. == Do == * '''Rock climbing/Bouldering''' Parque Miralla, Mijas pueblo * '''Plaza de Toros/Bullring''' Mijas pueblo * '''Ethnological Museum of Mijas''' Mijas pueblo * '''Golf''' - Mijas has 7 Gglf courses and more are under construction. * '''Mijas Aqua Park''' in Las Lagunas. * '''Rent pedal boats, jet skis, parascending on the beach.''' * '''Visit the Roman ruins''' at the Torreblanca end of Los Boliches * '''[[Benalmádena]] port and the aquarium (about 10 km away).''' * '''Train ride to Málaga.''' * '''Ferry cruise''' to [[Benalmádena]] [http://en.costasolcruceros.com/boat-excursions/services/] {{dead link|December 2020}}. * '''Feria week''' in mid-October every year. A mixture of music, flamenco, religion, horses, eating and drinking See the Spanish at play, when they party they do it seriously. * '''Play golf''' at one of the many courses within easy reach.No absolutely no to any 26 handicapers, bandits * '''Mijas Burrotaxis''': If you go to Mijas you can not miss the Burrotaxis. Burrotaxis is a peculiar transport method of Mijas, which appeared at the end of the 1950s, as a result of the fact that some workers from the quarries who returned to their homes on donkeys, were required by tourists to take photographs or take a walk. * '''Biennial of the Villa de Mijas art''' that is celebrated between October and November the first and in June the second. * '''Villa de Mijas theater festival''', which is held in June the second. * '''Flamenco Festival''', in August * '''Latin Night''' in August * '''Calapop Festival''' in August * '''Celtic Night''', in August bands of bagpipes from Gibraltar and northern Spain play. * '''Mijas Jazz Festival''', in autumn. * '''Other cultural events ''' are the Fair of Tales, the Literary Contest of Love Letters, the Market of the Senses and the International Day of the Peoples. * '''Beach activities:''' on the beaches you can practice water sports, rent water bikes, pedal boats, etc. == Buy == * '''Mijas Town''' - Mijas has many little independent traditional shops which sell mainly artisian decoration and decort such as hand made pottery, paintings, lots of souvenirs from Spain, and leather jackets and clothing. The shops have there displays outside on the white streets which makes Mijas also so very touristic and attractive. == Eat == There are lots of Spanish tapa bars in the area. You may need to look in the small corridors and streets for traditional good Mediterranean food. * '''Mirlo Blanco Restarante''' * '''Los Arcos''' == Drink == [[File:Calahonda,_Spain_2005_2.jpg|thumb|Sohail Castle]] '''Cruzcampo''' which is the traditional Spanish beer is served everywhere as is various Spanish wines. Again, lots of places to drink and eat. Mijas is not really a place for a mad drunken sleazy night out (the nearby town of Fuengirola is better for that), however there are many smaller bars and cafes where one can have a civilised drink. The Boveda del Flamenco bar is a fantastic little place, which used to be the old village jail. It is excellent to sit outside in the summer and watch the world going by. Although many local Spanish residents have their own ways of hanging out in Mijas, discothèques and others are not in the area except nearby cities. If you fancy something to eat or have a nice meal, there are many restaurants about. == Sleep == There are many other places where you can sleep or look for accommodation since everything is very nearby. * {{sleep | name=Hotel Mijas | alt= | url=http://www.hoteltrhmijas.com/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Provides superb accommodation. }} *'''[http://www.hoteltamisagolf.com/ Hotel Tamisa Golf]''' If you are looking for golfing accommodations in the area of Mijas, there is the Mijas golf course. * {{sleep | name=Casa Caleta | alt= | url=http://www.casacaleta.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Excellent family-run B&B in a Finca with fantastic views. }} * {{sleep | name = Apartamentos Torrenueva Park | url = https://www.torrenuevapark.com | address= Urb. Torrenueva Park Ctra. de Cádiz, Km 200 | content= | phone=+34 952 49 40 77 }} * {{sleep | name=Mijas costa Oasis Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.mijascostaoasis.com/ | email= | address=Calle Opalo, s/n | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 952 93 19 80 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel IPV Beatriz | alt=Hotel IPV Palace & Spa | url=http://www.hotelipvbeatrizpalace.com/en/ | email=reservas@hotelesipv.com | address=Ctra. A7. Km. 207 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 902 10 10 12 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-29 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Las piramides | alt= | url=http://www.hotellaspiramides.com/en/ | email=reservas@hotellaspiramides.com | address=C/ Miguel Marquez, 43 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 952 470 600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-29 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Apartments Ronda4 | alt= | url=http://www.apartamentosronda4.com/en/ | email=info@apartamentosronda4.com | address=Paseo Marítimo Rey de España, 96 CP 29640 Los Boliches, Fuengirola| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 952660716 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-29 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Apartamentos Nuriasol | alt= | url=http://www.apartamentosnuriasol.com/en/ | email=reservas@apartamentosnuriasol.es | address=Avd. Francisco Rivera "Paquirri" 23-25 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 952663864 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-29 | content= }} *There are many options to rental self-catering villas in the area. You can check the [http://www.mijaslanueva.com/ following option] {{dead link|August 2018|December 2020}}. == Connect == As of Dec 2024, Mijas and its approach roads have 4G from MasMovil, Movistar and Orange, and 5G from Movistar. == Go next == {{outlinecity}} {{IsPartOf|Costa del Sol}} {{geo|36.595|-4.637}} 8o22b2lryjepd2awj77ie86lmvr1d6l 0 22661 5091131 4880396 2025-07-11T01:37:35Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Go next */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091131 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mojave National Preserve banner Joshua Trees.JPG}} '''Mojave National Preserve''' is an area of stark, quiet desert landscapes in the [[Desert (California)|southeastern desert]] of [[California]]. Protected as a [[National scenic areas in the United States|United States national preserve]], it is part of the [[United States National Park System|National Park System]]. ==Understand== ===History=== ===Landscape=== [[File:Mojave preserve kelso dunes.jpg|300px|thumb|right|The massive Kelso Dune complex, home of the singing sand dunes]] [[File:Clark Mountain from Cima Dome 2.jpg|300px|thumb|right|Clark Mountain, seen from Cima Dome]] Mojave National Preserve's vast expanse of desert lands include elements of three of the four major North American deserts: the Mojave, Great Basin, and Sonoran. The preserve's unique ecology is attributed to its remarkable geology. The desert is a land of old mountain ranges, sand dunes, great mesas and volcanic features such as cinder cones, domes, and lava flows; these features contribute to the remarkable beauty of the landscape. The most ancient rocks in the preserve, found in the Clark Mountains, are 2.5 billion years old. ===Flora and fauna=== Changes in elevation and soil type, combined with dozens of seeps and springs, many in sheltered canyons, create a wide range of microhabitats that support a rich diversity of plants and animals. Some species are only found in this area. Notable plant assemblages include one of the largest and most dense Joshua Tree forests, cactus gardens, and reelect plant communities of white fir and chaparral. Signs of animal life are subtle and easily overlooked. Birds and lizards are seen most frequently, but time of day, weather, and season all play a role in determining which animals are active. A large percentage of desert animals are nocturnal: being active at night rather than during daylight hours allows them to avoid high daytime temperatures and predators. Typical nocturnal animals include most desert rodents, bats, owls, mountain lion, skunks, and foxes. Other animals are crepuscular, active at dawn and dusk, and include coyotes, bighorn sheep and jackrabbits. Diurnal animals, those active during the day, are the most dynamic in that their activity periods will change based on temperature and season. ===Climate=== <!-- climate data for Mitchell Caverns --> {{climate | units = imperial | janhigh = 53 | febhigh = 55 | marhigh = 61 | aprhigh = 68 | mayhigh = 78 | junhigh = 87 | julhigh = 92 | aughigh = 90 | sephigh = 84 | octhigh = 73 | novhigh = 61 | dechigh = 53 | janlow = 39 | feblow = 41 | marlow = 44 | aprlow = 49 | maylow = 58 | junlow = 67 | jullow = 73 | auglow = 72 | seplow = 65 | octlow = 56 | novlow = 45 | declow = 38 | janprecip = 1.3 | febprecip = 1.8 | marprecip = 1.5 | aprprecip = 0.6 | mayprecip = 0.2 | junprecip = 0.1 | julprecip = 1.0 | augprecip = 1.3 | sepprecip = 1.0 | octprecip = 0.8 | novprecip = 0.6 | decprecip = 1.4 | description = {{ForecastNOAA|Mojave National Preserve|34.9436|-115.5469}} &#160;&#160; Data from [http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/cdo-web/datatools/normals NOAA (1981-2010)] }} The weather is generally most comfortable in the spring and fall. Temperatures vary greatly by elevation. At low elevations, daytime highs are in the 70s (°F) in March; lows are in the 40s. Highs over {{F|100}} typically begin in May and can last into October. In the mountains, daytime highs are in the 70s in May; lows are in the 50s. Winters can bring freezing temperatures and occasional snows, with daytime highs in the 50s and 60s. Annual precipitation ranges from {{inch|3.5}} at lower elevations to nearly 10 inches in the mountains. Most rain falls between November and April; summer thunderstorms may bring sudden, heavy rainfall. The driest months are May and June. Winds are a prominent feature of Mojave Desert weather. Strong winds occur in fall, late winter, and early spring months. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nps.gov/moja/index.htm Park website] * {{listing | name=Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm | email= | address=2 Black Canyon Road, Essex | lat=35.0426 | long=-115.3959 | directions= | phone=+1 760-252-6100 | tollfree= | hours=F-Mo 10AM-4PM | price= | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content=This information center offers basic orientation, and a 12-minute film about the preserve. There is also a bookstore, restroom, water and telephone available. Exhibits under renovation. }} * {{listing | name=Kelso Depot Visitor Center | alt= | url=https://home.nps.gov/moja/learn/historyculture/kelso-depot.htm | email= | address=90942 Kelso-Cima Road, Kelso | lat=35.012222 | long=-115.6525 | directions= | phone=+1 760-252-6100 | tollfree= | hours=('''closed for repairs'''; expected to reopen Spring 2023)| price= | wikipedia=Kelso Depot | image=Kelso railroad depot.jpg | wikidata=Q6386536 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content=Opened in 1924 as a train station, Kelso Depot is an old two-story Union Pacific station built in the Spanish style. The depot narrowly escaped demolition in the 1980s before being taken over by the National Park Service, renovated, and reopened in 2005 as the visitor center for Mojave National Preserve. Former dormitory rooms contain exhibits describing the cultural and natural history of the surrounding desert. The baggage room, ticket office, and two dormitory rooms have been historically furnished to illustrate life in the depot in the first half of the 20th century. A 20-minute orientation film is shown in the theater. Downstairs. the Desert Light Gallery features rotating fine art collections by local artists, focusing on the cultural history and natural splendors of Mojave National Preserve. }} ==Get in== {{mapframe|35.12|-115.55|zoom=9|width=450|height=450}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== The preserve is easily reached via I-15 or I-40 east of '''[[Barstow]]''', and west of '''[[Needles]]''' and '''[[Las Vegas]]'''. There are six freeway exits that provide visitor access. ===By train and bus=== '''[[Baker (California)|Baker]]''', the northwest entrance to the preserve, is served by Amtrak's bus service, providing connections to Amtrak trains. ===By plane=== The nearest airport is north in: * [[Las Vegas]] at '''[[Harry Reid International Airport]]''' ({{IATA|LAS}}), {{mi|60}} from the eastern boundary of the preserve. A little further away to the southwest is: * [[Palm Springs]] at '''[[Palm Springs#By plane|Palm Springs International Airport]]''' ({{IATA|PSP}}) &mdash; {{convert|125-175|mi|km}} from the western boundaries of the preserve. * [[Ontario (California)|Ontario]] at '''[[Ontario (California)#By plane|Ontario International Airport]]''' ({{IATA|ONT}}) &mdash; {{convert|140-160|mi|km}} from the western boundaries of the preserve. ==Fees and permits== There are no entrance fees to the preserve, but some of the preserve's campgrounds do charge a usage fee for overnight camping. ==Get around== Road conditions vary from paved, two-lane highways to rugged 4-wheel drive roads. Access is possible on foot, by bike, by horse, or by car. ==See== [[File:KelsoDunesMarch2010.JPG|thumb|Kelso Dunes (Can you spot the hikers partway up?)]] * {{see | name=Cima Dome | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/cima-road.htm | email= | address= | lat=35.2895 | long=-115.5854 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cima volcanic field | wikidata=Q5120409 | content=A broad sloping upland dome, the erosional remnant of granite plutons that formed deep under the Earth's surface. Best viewed from Teutonia Peak Trail that leads through the what was once the densest concentration of Joshua Trees in the world (severely damaged in a 2020 fire). }} * {{see | name=Ivanpah Lake | alt=Ivanpah Windsailing Special Recreation Management Area | url=https://www.blm.gov/visit/ivanpah-windsailing-special-recreation-management-area | email=blm_ca_ne_all@blm.gov | address= | lat=35.5506 | long=-115.3959 | directions= | phone=+1 760-326-7000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=(Permit required for individual use of the dry lake bed for non-motorized sport; special permit required for commercial, organized groups, competitive events and film). | wikipedia=Ivanpah Lake | image=Ivanpah Lake 4.jpg | wikidata=Q7334253 | lastedit=2022-07-28 | content=A dry lake bed used for land sailing located just outside of the preserve boundaries on BLM managed land }} * {{see | name=Kelso Dunes | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/moja/kelso-dunes.htm | email= | address= | lat=34.90913 | long=-115.7694 | directions=Kelso Dunes Rd off Kelbaker Rd | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13576949 | content=The massive Kelso Dunes are easily accessible by car (no four-wheel-drive needed). Second highest sand dunes in California, up to {{feet|700}}. They are created from wind that carries dust and is reflected off a mountain. The top of the highest dune has beautiful views of the surrounding desert. Beyond their large size, these dunes also have a phenomenon called "singing" or "booming" dunes. When the moisture content is right in the sands, they emit a low thrumming sound as sand slides down the slope. Try running down the slope of a dune to trigger the sound. From the parking area, the dunes do not appear to be very far away or very large. This is an optical illusion. The hike is about 3 miles (5 km) round trip with a roughly 600-foot (180-meter) elevation gain, and hiking in sand is a lot more work than on solid ground. Allow 2–3 hours to climb to the top of the dunes and back, bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and take off your shoes or prepare to get sand in them. }} * {{see | name=Lava tube | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/lava-tube.htm | email= | address= | lat= 35.216319 | long=-115.751506 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-11-23 | content=Formed by lava 27,000 years ago. Bring a flashlight. }} * {{see | name=Mitchell Caverns | alt= | url=http://www.parks.ca.gov/ProvidenceMountains/ | email= | address= | lat=34.940825 | long=-115.514436 | directions= | phone=+1 760-928-2586 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=F-M 8AM-5PM Sep-Jun; closed Jul & Aug | price=(park day use: $10/vehicle; tours additional: $10/adult; $9/seniors; $5/children) | wikipedia=Mitchell Caverns | image=Mitchell_Caverns_Entrance.jpg | wikidata=Q6881162 | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content=Available only by guided tours at 11AM and 2PM. Cave tours at the Mitchell Caverns in the Providence Mountains State Recreation Area (administratively not part of the preserve, but entirely surrounded by it). }} ==Do== ===Biking=== * '''Mountain biking''' &mdash; Seasoned mountain bikers will enjoy the challenges of some of the preserve's backcountry roads. [http://mojave2008.priss.org/ Bicycle Camping in and around Mojave National Preserve] provides a travelogue of a sample bicycle trip in the area. ===Four-wheel driving=== * '''Four-wheel-driving''' &mdash; The multi-day drive along the historic Mojave Road is a favorite of serious four-wheel-drive enthusiasts (off-road riding not permitted however). ===Hiking=== * {{do | name=Barber Peak Trail | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/barber-peak-trail.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-11-23 | content={{convert|6|miles}}. }} * '''Kelso Dunes Trail''', (refer to ''See'' section above). * {{do | name=Hole-in-the-Wall Nature Trail | alt= | url= https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/hole-in-the-wall-nature-trail.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=trailhead at the Hole-in-the-Wall information Center | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-11-23 | content=An easy hike, {{convert|0.5|miles}}. }} * {{do | name=Mid Hills to Hole-in-the-Wall Trail | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/mid-hills-to-hole-in-the-wall-trail.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Mid Hills Campground | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-11-23 | content={{convert|8|miles}} one way. The trail may be difficult to navigate; bring a map and pay attention to it. }} * {{do | name=Rings Loop | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/rings-loop.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-11-23 | content=A loop trail, {{convert|1.5|miles}}, which goes through Banshee Canyon and past ancient rock art; you climb out of the canyon using metal rings attached to the rock. }} * {{do | name=Rock Springs Trail | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/rock-springs-trail.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-11-23 | content={{convert|1|mile}}. Trail with information about the area's mining and military history. }} * {{do | name=Teutonia Peak Trail | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/teutonia-peak-trail.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-11-23 | content={{convert|3|miles}}, about 2–3 hours. Goes through an area that was once home to a Joshua tree forest, but it was severely affected by the 2020 Dome Fire. The landscape is expected to change significantly as the fire-damaged trees die and grasses colonize the area. }} ==Buy== The Kelso Depot Visitor Center and Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center have bookshops specializing in books related to desert topics. ==Eat== There are no restaurants in Mojave National Preserve. Restaurants are available in Baker, California. El Oasis Cafe at Nipton, on the northern edge of the preserve, provides home-cooked food six days a week. ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== There is no commercial lodging inside the preserve. Motels are available at '''[[Primm]]''', [[Nevada]] and a small, antique bed-and-breakfast is available at '''Nipton''' on the preserve's northern edge. ===Camping=== Car camping is available both in developed campgrounds or along roads in sites that have traditionally been used for that purpose. Do not camp along paved roads, and never camp within 200 yards of water sources. If a fire-ring is already there, camping is permitted. It appears that the rangers have built fire-rings in many obvious camping sites. Do not build a new fire-ring. Firewood collecting is not allowed in the preserve, nor is firewood available for sale. * {{sleep | name=Black Canyon Equestrian & Group Campground | url=https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/camping-groups.htm | email= | address= | lat=35.04901 | long=-115.38277 | directions=across the road from Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center | phone=+1 760-252-6100 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=($25 per group per night; reservations required) | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content=(year round) Facilities include pit toilets, water, and a picnic shelter with tables. }} * {{sleep | name=Hole-in-the-Wall Campground | url=https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/campgrounds.htm | email= | address= | lat=35.0453 | long=-115.3933 | directions= | phone=+1 760-252-6100 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=($12 per site per night; $6 per site per night for Golden Age/Access Passport holders) | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content=(year round) First-come first-serve; resevations not accepted. Surrounded by sculptured volcanic rock walls, the Hole-in-the-Wall Campground is at 4,400 feet elevation. The 35 campsites are large enough for motorhomes and trailers. Two walk-in tent sites are also available. Facilities include pit toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and trashcans. There are no utility hookups but there is a dump station. }} * {{sleep | name=Mid Hills Campground | url=https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/campgrounds.htm | email= | address= | lat=35.13165 | long=-115.43557 | directions=access road is unpaved; not recommended for motorhomes or trailers | phone=+1 760-252-6100 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=($12 per site per night; $6 per site per night for Golden Age/Access Passport holders) | lastedit=2022-07-29 | content=No water. First-come first-serve; resevations not accepted. Nestled in pinyon pine and juniper trees at 5,600 feet, Mid Hills Campground is much cooler than the desert floor below. The road to the campground is not paved and is not recommended for motorhomes or trailers. There are 26 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. Pit toilets, trashcans, fire rings, picnic tables. }} * {{sleep | name=Providence Mountains State Recreation Area (Mitchell Caverns) | url=http://www.parks.ca.gov/ProvidenceMountains/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 760-928-2586 | tollfree= | fax= | lastedit=2022-07-29 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Offers six campsites on a first-come, first-served basis. Cave tours of the Mitchell Caverns attract many people. This is a small campground that is entirely surrounded by the preserve, though administratively not part of it. The location is on an east-facing mountain ledge with beautiful views and sunrises, where the wind can sometimes be quite fierce. }} ===Backcountry=== The preserve also offers [https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/undeveloped-campsites.htm undeveloped or dispersed camping] and [https://www.nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm backcountry camping] opportunities. Much of the preserve is federally designated wilderness, where mechanized travel by car or bicycle is prohibited. Only travel by horse or foot is allowed in these areas. A network of backcountry roads, often suitable only for four-wheel-drive vehicles or, sometimes, well-equipped mountain bikes, provides access to many of these areas. Campsites are often found sporadically along backcountry roads in the preserve. If a fire-ring is already present, camping is permitted. ==Stay safe== Carry lots of water. There is very little water available in the preserve. Bottled water can be purchased at the Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center, along I-15 in Baker and at the gas station and store at I-15/Cima Road, at the general store in Nipton, at the Cima store (which isn't always open), and at the gas station in Fenner near the junction of I-40 and old [[Route 66]] on the south side of the preserve. Public drinking water is available at the Mid Hills and Hole in the Wall campgrounds, at Mitchell Caverns campground (Providence Mountains State Recreation Area), and from water fountains at Kelso Depot visitor center washrooms (open 24 hours a day) or inside Kelso Depot during open hours. In the backcountry, water is often available from the cistern at Marl Springs along the old Mojave Road (needs to be filtered or treated). Numerous small springs with varying (and sometimes non-existent) quantities of water exist throughout the preserve for folks with water filters, such as [http://mojave2008.priss.org/butcher-knife-canyon/00106-butcher-knife-canyon-stream-550px.jpg.html Butcher Knife Spring]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Research prior to travel relying on such springs is required. For example, a tiny stream of filterable water was available during one camper's visit at [http://mojave2007.priss.org/cane-spring/06510-indian-springs-water-550px.jpg.html Indian Springs off Kelbaker Road]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} a day after Christmas 2007. Cellular phone service is "sporatic and unreliable; generally, it is better within view of the two highways", per the [https://home.nps.gov/moja/faqs.htm NPS], so don't count on being able to use it in an emergency. You may be able to call 911 from some locations, but there is no guarantee. However, in an emergency always try 911: even if you have no service it may connect with another carrier. If using maps on your phone, download maps before you go. Take a paper map with you, and know how to read it. ==Go next== * '''[[Baker (California)|Baker]]''' &mdash; A tiny town on the park's northwestern border, Baker is the only significant town on I-15 in the remote desert stretch between [[Barstow]] and the [[Nevada]] border. It offers food, fuel and lodging, is home to the world's tallest thermometer, and is the starting point for those journeying north to '''[[Death Valley National Park]]'''. * '''[[Las Vegas]]''', north &mdash; {{convert|60|miles|}} from the park's eastern border, Sin City is America's playground. * '''[[Amboy]]''' and '''[[Route 66]]''', south &mdash; The Mother Road routes through the California desert through the ghost town of Amboy. * '''[[Twentynine Palms]]''' and '''[[Joshua Tree National Park]]''', south of Amboy &mdash; This large national park south of the town is home to two desert ecosystems and is a favorite for campers, hikers, and rock-climbers. {{usablepark}} {{IsPartOf|Desert (California)}} {{geo|35.12|-115.55|zoom=10}} {{related|United States national parks}} 6poi098da319p9g4azo21kzi03adcwx 0 22671 5091309 5075070 2025-07-11T10:24:45Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Buy */ once again I cannot see CHF being useful in Moldova 5091309 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} {{confused|the neighbouring [[Romania]]n region of [[Moldavia]]}} '''Moldova''' is a small, landlocked country nestled between [[Romania]] and [[Ukraine]]. Moldova is one of the least visited countries in Europe, but adventurous travellers will find some rewarding experiences. Moldova is famous for its wines and its monasteries. You can get winery tours and monastery tours from Chișinău, the capital. == Regions == [[File:Moldova Regions map.png|thumb|right|410px|Map of Moldova]] {{Regionlist|region1name=[[Moldova]]|region1description=Rolling hills and valleys between Dniester and Prut rivers controlled by the Moldovan Government.|region1color=#a9bd9b|region2color=#71b37b|region2name=[[Transnistria]]|region2description=An unrecognized but sovereign and independent territory. Its Soviet-style monuments and statues draw visitors interested in getting a glimpse of life in the old Soviet Union.}} {{disclaimerbox|'''[[Transnistria]]''' is covered in a separate article. While the legitimacy of the Transnistrian government is not recognised by any UN member, for visitors that government has ''de facto'' control of the area (separate visas, laws, currency, etc.) This is not a political endorsement of claims by either side in the dispute.}} ==Cities== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chișinău]]|wikidata=Q21197}} — the capital is a nice city to go and visit for some days, and to walk around in * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bălţi]]|wikidata=Q37801}} — the second largest city, features a pedestrian zone around the central square and a historic city centre * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Soroca]]|wikidata=Q853785}} — known as the "Romani (Gypsy) capital of Moldova", also boasts the Soroca fort built by Stephen the Great in 1499 * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ungheni]]|wikidata=Q858713}} — a border town to Romania with a bridge over the Prut river designed by architect Gustave Eiffel * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Comrat]]|wikidata=Q241122}} — the capital of the territory of Gagauzia, known for wine specific to the southern part of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cahul]]|wikidata=Q503469}} — historically the site of many battles, now known for its spas * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Orhei]]|wikidata=Q423258}} — fortified since the 6th century BC, also famous for its monastery ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gagauzia]]|wikidata=Q164819}}, an autonomous region within Moldova. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Orhei National Park]]|wikidata=Q15838244}} — Moldova's only national park ==Understand== [[File:Chisinau Stefan cel Mare monument.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|A statue of Stephen the Great (1433–1504), the Prince of Moldavia, in Chișinău.]] One of the smallest states of the former USSR, Moldova has been part of two historical empires: the [[Ottoman Empire]] and the [[Russian Empire]]. For several centuries, the country was under Ottoman influence but that all changed during the 1800s when the Russians took control of it. In the years to follow, Moldova became a part of the Russian Empire and later on, the [[Soviet Union]], before declaring independence in the 1990s. Its fertile soils led to Moldova being dubbed "the garden" of the Soviet Union. Moldova is one of the least visited countries on the planet. You are likely to attract intrigued looks from locals curious of what you are doing in the country. Since independence, Moldova has faced numerous difficulties, especially inter-ethnic conflict. Inter-ethnic tensions led to the creation of the proclaimed [[Transnistria]] Republic in eastern Moldova, which has its own government and currency but is not recognised by any UN member country. Economic links have been re-established between these two parts of Moldova despite the failure in political negotiations. Similar to [[Switzerland]], Moldova is committed to neutrality, and has decent relations with virtually every country in the world. Despite Moldova's vast political and economic problems, Moldovans try to be happy and make the most of their situation. ===Climate=== Despite its proximity to the Black Sea, Moldova experiences continental cold and snowy winters, mild springs and autumns, and warm to hot summers. ===Terrain=== Moldova, a landlocked country, mostly consists of rolling steppe, gradually sloping south towards the Black Sea. The country is only slightly hilly: its highest point is Bălănești Hill at 430&nbsp;m. ===History=== {{quickbar|location=LocationMoldova.png}} It was a principality under the suzerainty (protection) of the Ottoman Empire, then part of the Russian Empire after 1811, then part of Romania after World War I. Moldova was forcibly incorporated into the Soviet Union during World War II. * '''Independence Day''' — 27 August 1991 (from Soviet Union) * '''Constitution''' — new constitution adopted 28 July 1994; replaces old Soviet constitution of 1979 Although independent from the Soviet Union since 1991, Russian forces have remained on Moldovan territory east of the Dniester River supporting the Slavic population, mostly Ukrainians and Russians, who have proclaimed the breakaway republic of Transnistria. The poorest nation in Europe, Moldova became the first former Soviet state to elect a communist government and president in 2001. Despite subsequent losses, the Communist Party remains powerful in local politics. Mass protests erupted in April 2009 in the wake of parliamentary elections that resulted in the election of a communist government, which were widely seen as fraudulent. The protests, widely dubbed the "Grape Revolution" or the "Twitter Revolution", failed to result in the immediate resignation of the Moldovan government, but it succeeded in new snap parliamentary elections being called in July 2009, which were won by a coalition of pro-EU parties and firmly placed in country in the pro-Western camp. In 2024, a referendum was held, resulting in a slight majority voting to add a clause to the Moldovan constitution that requires the government to pursue [[European Union]] membership. ===Culture=== Geographically located at the crossroads of Latin, Slavic and other cultures, Moldova has enriched its own culture by adopting and maintaining some of the traditions of its neighbours and of other influences. Moldova has a distinct culture, but has heavy influences from Russia, Romania and Ukraine. These influences are most visible in the cuisine in Moldova. While Moldova has its own culinary style, including Mamaliga, Zeama, Placinta and other traditional dishes, a lot of the food eaten or sold here originated from Russia or Romania. Moldovan music has a distinctive flair, but is what you might expect in eastern Europe. There are a lot of accordions, and the traditional costumes and dances are similar to Romanian traditional ones. ===Maps=== Moldova is one of the least visited countries in Europe, so tourist information desks are still very rare. You can't depend only on the usual online maps, especially if you need to find an address in a rural area. What is probably the best online map of Moldova is found at [http://www.map.md map.md] In some kiosks you can buy a two-sided map called "Republic of Moldova: Topographical map, 1:200 000" (Республика Молдова: Топографическая карта, 1:200 000, {{ISBN|9789664970621}} which is based on older Soviet military maps. You can download these in advance and print them, or you can browse them in many apps. ===Visitor information === * [https://moldova.travel/en/ Experience Moldova] tourism information ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of the Republic of Moldova.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Moldova.]] {{VisaRestriction|Entry and transit will be refused to citizens of Taiwan.|lastedit=2025-02-15}} ===Entry requirements=== Citizens of Canada, CIS countries, the EU, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, UK and the US do not need a visa to enter Moldova and can stay in the country for up to 90 days within a six-month period [http://www.mfa.gov.md/entry-visas-moldova/ without registration]. Citizens of other countries must either obtain a visa in the nearest Moldovan embassy or alternatively could obtain a visa on arrival in Chișinău airport and on some land border crossings provided that an officially endorsed invitation letter from Moldova is obtained beforehand. By entering into Moldova via [[Ukraine]], you may be crossing [[Transnistria]]. Some buses from [[Odesa]] go through [[Tiraspol]], while others go around, exchanging the two border crossings with more time on the road. Transnistria is an unrecognised state in the east of Moldova bordering Ukraine, which broke off from the country after a war in 1992. There are generally few issues for Westerners in crossing Transnistrian borders by bus, although foreign travellers have experienced problems in the past. There is, however, a small chance that foreign tourists may be asked to pay bribes, although the buses which travel between Ukraine, Transnistria and the rest of Moldova usually handle negotiations at the border well, collecting passports and negotiating with Transnistrian authorities. Also, there is no Moldovan border check between Transnistria and the rest of Moldova as Moldova does not recognise Transnistria as a state, so you might have some explaining to do when you try to leave Moldova without an entrance stamp. ===By plane=== {{cautionbox|As a result of the war in Ukraine, flights to Moldova may be suspended, particularly if conflict erupts in Transnistria or neighboring areas of Ukraine. Flights to Russia and Ukraine remain suspended. |lastedit=17 April 2022}} [[File:19-01-19-Chișinău RRK0221.jpg|thumb|300px|Chișinău airport]] The main international airport is {{marker|type=go|name=Chișinău International Airport|wikidata=Q844951}} ({{IATA|RMO}}). Airlines that serve several destinations from Chisinau are Wizz Air, HiSky and Fly One{{Go|lastedit=2024-02-11}} Nearby airports are in [[Iași]] ({{IATA|IAS}}) and [[Bacău]] ({{IATA|BCM}}). ===By train=== [[File:Moldova trein.jpg|thumb|300px|Train from Moscow to Chișinău travelling through Moldovan countryside]] Possibly the cheapest way to get into the country is to take the overnight train. There are daily trains from Romania. The train from Bucharest leaves at 19:10 and arrives at about 08:45 and the train from Chișinău leaves at 16:55 arriving at 06:47 in Bucharest. A ticket in a 2nd class, 4-berth sleeper is 593 [[Moldova#Money|Moldovan lei]] (~€28), or 685 Moldovan lei in a 1st class, 2-berth sleeper (2018). Since flights into Bucharest may be cheaper than those into Moldova, this may be an option if you have the time. It is now possible to [http://tracer.railway.md:10000/?lang=ro '''buy tickets online''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} up to two weeks before departure (website in Romanian/Russian only). Just show your printout to the conductor when boarding. At the border crossing the carriages are lifted individually onto larger gauge wheels to fit Moldovan tracks. Crossing the border from Ukraine is smoother, as both countries use the same track gauge. ===By car=== When coming by car use a border crossing with a (non-stop) visa issuing office. You will have to pay a small road tax at the border. A person driving a car which is not registered in their own name must carry a letter of authority from the registered owner. ===By bus=== There are [http://www.autogara.md/ regular buses] connecting [[Chișinău]] with Bucharest, Kyiv and most major Romanian and Ukrainian cities. There are 5-6 buses per day to and from Bucharest. Due to a longer stay at the border the trip takes around 10&nbsp;hours. There is a basic toilet at the border, however most coaches do not make any other stops. You will also be able to travel to most European cities by bus with Moldovan bus companies. When coming by bus one should be sure to use a frontier with a (non-stop) visa issuing office. *[[Kyiv]], 2 daily, 250 lei, 12&nbsp;hours *[[Moscow]], 4 daily, 700 lei, 30&nbsp;hours *[[Odesa]], 20 daily, 90 lei, 5&nbsp;hours *[[Sevastopol]], daily, 430 lei, 18&nbsp;hours *[[Brasov]], 5 daily, 200 lei, 12&nbsp;hours ===By boat=== Although the country is landlocked, there is a ferry service between [[Giurgiulesti|Giurgiulești]] in Moldova and [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]], plying the river Danube to reach the Black Sea. They leave Giurgiulesti every Monday and arrive at Istanbul the following Wednesday. It's not certain if this ferry service is only limited to the high season. ==Get around== [[File:Kišiněv, letiště, AKSM-321 (2019-03-17; 02).jpg|thumb|300px|Trolleybus in Chișinău]] Moldova is small enough to be explored very quickly. For example, a long walk to [[Chișinău]] from Bolhrad − even though that sounds highly impractical − will take you about 34 hours. The most reliable way of getting around the country is by bus. Buses can get you to most parts of the country. You can find information about long-distance bus services in Moldova on the [https://autogari.md/ Autogari] website, for example. This site contains information on bus stations in Moldova, timetables and routes between cities. Chișinău is the main transportation hub for the country. The three bus stations serve every city and town in Moldova. The fastest form of transport are small minibuses which seat around 15 people. Larger buses are also used and are marginally safer, because they travel at slower speeds. In Chișinău there is a state run trolleybus system which includes many new vehicles. Fare is 6 lei; a conductor collects fares and issues tickets. There is also a 'bus service which operates with fewer routes. Minibuses (''rutiere'' in Moldovan Romanian; ''marshrutki'' in Russian) are available in most cities. They are privately operated and are called by requesting the vehicle to stop, however can often be very crowded. Drivers should be paid on boarding (3 lei in Chișinău), however some insist on sitting down first and passing the money to the person in front of them to pass to the driver, so don't be alarmed if people behind you start handing you money. [[File:Moldova road sign 5.1.svg|thumb|Speed limits in Moldova]] ==Talk== {{seealso|Romanian phrasebook}} The official language of the country is '''[[Romanian phrasebook|Romanian]]'''. Since 2023, it has been the state language of the country. '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' is widely spoken in the country, both as a first and second language. If you don't know any Romanian, communicating in Russian should be no problem. '''[[Gagauz phrasebook|Gagauz]]''', a Turkic language, is a language of [[Gagauzia]]. It is closely related to Azerbaijani, Turkish, and Turkmen. If you know either of those three languages, you shouldn't have a problem picking up Gagauz. '''[[Ukrainian phrasebook|Ukrainian]]''' is spoken by the Ukrainian minority and in parts of [[Transnistria]]. '''English''' has been taught in Moldova since the 1990s, but few people speak it well enough to have a full conversation. Therefore, knowledge of Romanian and/or Russian is useful to get around the country independently. Language can be a sensitive issue in this country, and the name of the native language is a source of endless political controversy. Some refer to Romanian as Romanian (''limba română''), while some refer to the same language as Moldovan (''limba moldovenească''), and others prefer to speak Russian. ==See== [[File:The Soroca fortress.jpg|thumb|300px|Soroca fortress]] [[File:Caves Milestii Mici Moldavie.jpg|thumb|300px|Mileștii Mici]] ===Museums=== There are several museums in central [[Chișinău]], including the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, the Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of Fine Arts. ===Wine=== Moldova is famous for its wines, and high-quality wines at inexpensive prices are Moldova’s main tourist attraction. * {{marker|type=see|name=Mileștii Mici|wikidata=Q15625039|url=https://www.milestii-mici.md/en/}} - With over 200&nbsp;kilometres (125&nbsp;miles) of underground roadways, Mileștii Mici is registered in the Guinness World Records as the biggest wine collection in the world. It may be easier to book a tour through a travel agency as one must provide a car for the tour. +373 22 382 333. * {{marker|type=see|name=Cricova|wikidata=Q15212003}} - Moldova's second largest wine cellar has over 120&nbsp;kilometres (75&nbsp;miles) of underground roads. 15&nbsp;minutes drive from Chișinău, it is a favourite of tourists. +373 22-277 378. * {{marker|type=see|name=Purcari|wikidata=Q7260900}} - One of the oldest wineries in Moldova, Purcari wine has been drunk by Russian Emperor Nicolai II and his first cousin, the British King George V. * '''Brănești''' - A smaller and reasonably priced wine cellar. It lies close to Orheiul Vechi Monastery which makes it perfect for combining a monastery tour with wine tasting. ===Monasteries=== * {{marker|type=see|name=[[Orhei|Orheiul Vechi]]|wikidata=Q2382751}} - Moldova's best known sight is a 13th-century Cave Monastery located about a half-hour drive from Chișinău. Just up the road is a tourist centre with a small museum, restaurant and hotel. Call ahead to make sure it's open at +373 235 34 242. The cost to enter the complex is 20 lei or 15 if you are a student, but none of the locals seem to bother to stop to pay. Six marshrutka services run between Chișinău central bus station and the tourist complex every day. In the vicinity are huge cliffs that contain another six complexes of interlocking caves. It is strongly advised to explore them with an experienced guide. The remains of a Turkish bath house is also just off the river. * {{marker|type=see|name=Căpriana Monastery|wikidata=Q1692322}} - One of Moldova’s most prominent monasteries only 40&nbsp;km (25&nbsp;miles) from Chișinău. Buses run hourly in the morning from Calea Ieşilor in the Sculeni part of Chișinău. * {{marker|type=see|name=Bender|wikidata=Q192176}} (or '''Tighina''' in Romanian) - Another fortification is The Fortress of Bender, however it is being used as a military training ground and is off limits. The best views are from the bridge going towards Tiraspol. * {{marker|type=see|name=Tipova Monastery|wikidata=Q3815738}} - Rock monastery situated by Nistru river in mid-eastern Moldova. * {{marker|type=see|name=Saharna Monastery|wikidata=Q675184}} ==Do== * Visit wine cellars * {{do | name=Orhei National Park | alt=Parcul Național Orhei | url=https://www.facebook.com/ParculNationalOrhei | email= | address= | lat=47.3 | long=28.966667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15838244 | lastedit=2019-06-18 | content=A 337 km² national park protected since 2012. }} ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Moldova lei | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;lei | date=January 2025 | USD=18 | EUR=19 | GBP=23 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mdl-moldovan-leu XE.com] }} [[File:MD 1 leu av.jpg|thumb|300px|Moldovan 1 Leu banknote]] The '''leu''' (plural: '''lei''') is the currency of Moldova (ISO 4217 code '''MDL''') . Like the Romanian leu, the Moldovan leu is subdivided into 100 bani (singular: ban). The name of the currency originates in Romania, and means "lion". Banknotes are in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 lei. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 bani, 1, 2, 5 and 10 lei. ===Shopping=== Local wine is of superb quality and cheap in comparison to other countries, but for political reasons is mostly unknown in Western Europe. === Tipping === Moldovans are not accustomed to tipping. ==Eat== Chișinău is a good place for gourmands. There are a lot of good places to eat all over Chișinău. Cheap, tasty food that is very popular with the locals is served in most places. For better service and more diverse food, there are a lot of small restaurants and cafés. Good restaurants have prices comparable to those elsewhere in Europe. For a quick lunch, fast food and pizza shops are recommended; these can be found at nearly every corner. For groceries, there are small shops all over. Some are even in front of apartment blocks just a few steps away from the entrances. For harder-to-find items, go to the supermarkets. For fresh fruits and vegetables, markets are a great place to shop. Most of the products are local, but there are a lot of sellers who to sell imported stuff, mostly oranges, bananas and other tropical fruits and vegetables. Meat and meat products are best purchased from supermarkets or shops. The quality is much better than from the market, and the prices aren't much higher. While in Moldova, make sure you try at least some of the traditional dishes: Mămăligă, plăcintă and sarmale are essential for a complete experience during your visit to Moldova. For the full experience these should be accompanied by homemade wine. ==Drink== [[File:Mileștii Mici Wine Fountain.jpg|thumb|300px|Wine fountain at Mileștii Mici]] Moldova has a long tradition of local [[wine]]. The reds are especially popular throughout the country. Most Moldovan villagers grow their own grapes and press their own wine, and many standard rural households will press thousands of litres per year. The nightlife of Chișinău is also quite spectacular compared to what could be expected. It is the host of many clubs and bars that are equal in every aspect to many other places throughout Eastern Europe. ==Sleep== Accommodation in Chișinău is surprisingly expensive and there is no shortage of €100 a night options. Most hotel prices are listed in euros but some are listed in US dollars. Many smaller towns will have a Soviet relic hotel complete with service with a frown. Rates will be high for what you're getting. In many places it's possible to pay about €10 to stay in a local's house. This is an informal arrangement and can only be organized by talking to people upon arrival but it is well worth considering if you want to get out into the countryside. '''Hostels'''. Hostelling is still in its infancy in Moldova, but there are a few nice hostels to be found in Chișinău. Amongst others Chișinău Hostel and Central Youth Hostel. Prices range from US$10–20. '''Apartments'''. Many people in Chișinău rent out apartments. The location and quality can vary. Many are also not very modern. You may want to use a booking company as it may be hard to find people who speak English. Price €20–50. ==Learn== While none are internationally accredited, there are universities in Chișinău, Bălți and Cahul. ==Work== The unemployment rate in Moldova is one of the highest in Europe. In addition, salaries are very low. Many Moldovans go to work overseas. For foreigners, it may be interesting to work in highly qualified industries, where, nevertheless, salaries are not as high as in most of Europe, although it is easy to get a work visa or work permit. The minimum wage here is about €125, and the average salary is €250-300. Good doctors (especially dentists), IT specialists, economists, teachers of English, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, German, Polish, Turkish are especially appreciated here. To teach languages, you must know Romanian or Russian. ==Stay safe== {{warningbox|Due to the war in Ukraine, many governments '''advise against travel''' to areas near the Moldovan-Ukrainian border and Transnistria. For more information on how to protect yourself while in a war zone, see [[war zone safety]].|lastedit=2025-05-24}} [[File:Mounted Moldavian police in a park.jpg|thumb|300px|Mounted police in Chișinău]] Visitors to Moldova for business or romance should be aware of the potential risk of scams, particularly if first contact was made on the Internet. See [https://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/financial_scams/financial_scams_3155.html International financial scams]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and [https://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_2088.html Russian Internet dating schemes]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Corrupt police and border guards may try to extort bribe money but 'normal' crime rates are low. Locals are generally very friendly and will go to great lengths to provide hospitality to foreigners. You can expect a lengthy, and inevitably boozy, meal to be offered to you just in your honour. Conservative dress must be worn at religious sites. Shorts are forbidden and women must cover their heads inside monasteries and churches. While bribery and police corruption are still problems in Moldova, the situation is improving. It is still advised that tourists have the number of their embassy and the contact information of where they are staying. Foreigners are also required to have their passports on them at all times. There is however usually no one checking this in any normal setting. Alcohol consumption can also be a problem. Running into drunks especially at night is common. Most are friendly; they often come off as aggressive and will invade your personal space. This can be scary the first couple of times. Politely walking away normally works. People coming from a country where less alcohol is consumed can find themselves becoming the drunks. There are few natural hazards in the country. Landslides, mainly due to erosion from poor farming methods, sometimes occur. ==Stay healthy== Very few healthcare facilities are on par with Western standards, and accessibility may be hindered if you're not proficient in Romanian and/or Russian. In the event of a serious medical emergency, it is strongly recommended that you make every effort to seek medical care elsewhere. Neighbouring [[Romania]] may have better healthcare facilities than neighbouring [[Ukraine]]. The US Embassy in Moldova maintains a list of facilities that provide services in English. Refer to [https://md.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/doctors/] for more information. The heavy use of agricultural chemicals, including banned pesticides such as DDT, has contaminated soil and groundwater. If you are concerned, '''[[water]]''' for drinking, cooking and oral hygiene should be taken from a known safe source, as ordinary water treatment, including boiling, does not remove such chemical contamination. ==Respect== Tourists are likely to attract stares from the locals. Do not be alarmed or surprised; this doesn't indicate hostility, but rather, curiosity. This may cause some to treat you as a "walking wallet" or someone who is "wealthy". If you feel like you are about to be scammed by someone, simply ignore them or tell them to go away. Don't feel the need to be polite with scammers; nobody should put up with such behavior. === Women === Women are widely respected in Moldovan society, perhaps more so than any other country in [[Europe]]. There are many female mayors in Moldova and there are many women who have high positions in the government, including the president since 2020. As is the case throughout the former [[USSR]], women are traditionally treated with chivalry in Moldova. Women should not be surprised or alarmed if their male Moldovan friends take the initiative to pay the bills at a restaurant, open every door in front of them, and/or help them carry items or objects. Men should understand that these nuances will be expected by Moldovan women. In rural areas, it is a social taboo for women to smoke or drink alcohol. === Sensitive issues === ==== Politics ==== Moldovan political discourse tends to be polarizing. Moldovans are divided into three opposing camps − those who favor closer ties with the [[European Union]], those who favor closer ties with [[Russia]], and those who want Moldova to be committed to neutrality. You should be mindful of discussing the following political subjects: * '''The possibility of Romania and Moldova unifying''' is a sensitive issue in certain circles, especially among pro-Russian Moldovans. * '''Avoid bringing up the [[Transnistria]] conflict'''; it can be a very sensitive topic of discussion and many Moldovans are opposed to Transnistrian independence. * '''Moldova's relationship with [[Russia]]''' is a complex topic of conversation; while some in [[Gagauzia]] and [[Transnistria]] have favorable opinions of Russia, some pro-European Moldovans, especially supporters of the Sandu administration, do not have positive opinions of the Russian government. Some Moldovans feel that Russia hasn't done enough to acknowledge the role the Soviets played in causing the mass famine in the country during the mid-1940s. * '''The possibility of Moldova joining the [[European Union]]''' is a highly sensitive and polarizing issue. Avoid bringing it up in front of people in [[Gagauzia]] and [[Transnistria]] where pro-Russian sentiment is popular. * '''Identity''' can be a highly sensitive issue in Moldova; most identify as "Moldovan", while some identify as "Romanian" (common among pro-European and unionist Moldovans). This also applies to language as well; even though Romanian is the official language of Moldova, some refer to it as "Moldovan". The foolproof method is to ask someone what they identify as, if they're comfortable discussing it, that is. {{isPartOf|Balkans}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|47|28|zoom=7}} tax5s4y2090ri6x745xjo14h3fgf2pl 5091310 5091309 2025-07-11T10:25:15Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091310 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} {{confused|the neighbouring [[Romania]]n region of [[Moldavia]]}} '''Moldova''' is a small, landlocked country nestled between [[Romania]] and [[Ukraine]]. Moldova is one of the least visited countries in Europe, but adventurous travellers will find some rewarding experiences. Moldova is famous for its wines and its monasteries. You can get winery tours and monastery tours from Chișinău, the capital. == Regions == [[File:Moldova Regions map.png|thumb|right|410px|Map of Moldova]] {{Regionlist|region1name=[[Moldova]]|region1description=Rolling hills and valleys between Dniester and Prut rivers controlled by the Moldovan Government.|region1color=#a9bd9b|region2color=#71b37b|region2name=[[Transnistria]]|region2description=An unrecognized but sovereign and independent territory. Its Soviet-style monuments and statues draw visitors interested in getting a glimpse of life in the old Soviet Union.}} {{disclaimerbox|'''[[Transnistria]]''' is covered in a separate article. While the legitimacy of the Transnistrian government is not recognised by any UN member, for visitors that government has ''de facto'' control of the area (separate visas, laws, currency, etc.) This is not a political endorsement of claims by either side in the dispute.}} ==Cities== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chișinău]]|wikidata=Q21197}} — the capital is a nice city to go and visit for some days, and to walk around in * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bălţi]]|wikidata=Q37801}} — the second largest city, features a pedestrian zone around the central square and a historic city centre * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Soroca]]|wikidata=Q853785}} — known as the "Romani (Gypsy) capital of Moldova", also boasts the Soroca fort built by Stephen the Great in 1499 * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ungheni]]|wikidata=Q858713}} — a border town to Romania with a bridge over the Prut river designed by architect Gustave Eiffel * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Comrat]]|wikidata=Q241122}} — the capital of the territory of Gagauzia, known for wine specific to the southern part of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cahul]]|wikidata=Q503469}} — historically the site of many battles, now known for its spas * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Orhei]]|wikidata=Q423258}} — fortified since the 6th century BC, also famous for its monastery ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gagauzia]]|wikidata=Q164819}}, an autonomous region within Moldova. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Orhei National Park]]|wikidata=Q15838244}} — Moldova's only national park ==Understand== [[File:Chisinau Stefan cel Mare monument.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|A statue of Stephen the Great (1433–1504), the Prince of Moldavia, in Chișinău.]] One of the smallest states of the former USSR, Moldova has been part of two historical empires: the [[Ottoman Empire]] and the [[Russian Empire]]. For several centuries, the country was under Ottoman influence but that all changed during the 1800s when the Russians took control of it. In the years to follow, Moldova became a part of the Russian Empire and later on, the [[Soviet Union]], before declaring independence in the 1990s. Its fertile soils led to Moldova being dubbed "the garden" of the Soviet Union. Moldova is one of the least visited countries on the planet. You are likely to attract intrigued looks from locals curious of what you are doing in the country. Since independence, Moldova has faced numerous difficulties, especially inter-ethnic conflict. Inter-ethnic tensions led to the creation of the proclaimed [[Transnistria]] Republic in eastern Moldova, which has its own government and currency but is not recognised by any UN member country. Economic links have been re-established between these two parts of Moldova despite the failure in political negotiations. Similar to [[Switzerland]], Moldova is committed to neutrality, and has decent relations with virtually every country in the world. Despite Moldova's vast political and economic problems, Moldovans try to be happy and make the most of their situation. ===Climate=== Despite its proximity to the Black Sea, Moldova experiences continental cold and snowy winters, mild springs and autumns, and warm to hot summers. ===Terrain=== Moldova, a landlocked country, mostly consists of rolling steppe, gradually sloping south towards the Black Sea. The country is only slightly hilly: its highest point is Bălănești Hill at 430&nbsp;m. ===History=== {{quickbar|location=LocationMoldova.png}} It was a principality under the suzerainty (protection) of the Ottoman Empire, then part of the Russian Empire after 1811, then part of Romania after World War I. Moldova was forcibly incorporated into the Soviet Union during World War II. * '''Independence Day''' — 27 August 1991 (from Soviet Union) * '''Constitution''' — new constitution adopted 28 July 1994; replaces old Soviet constitution of 1979 Although independent from the Soviet Union since 1991, Russian forces have remained on Moldovan territory east of the Dniester River supporting the Slavic population, mostly Ukrainians and Russians, who have proclaimed the breakaway republic of Transnistria. The poorest nation in Europe, Moldova became the first former Soviet state to elect a communist government and president in 2001. Despite subsequent losses, the Communist Party remains powerful in local politics. Mass protests erupted in April 2009 in the wake of parliamentary elections that resulted in the election of a communist government, which were widely seen as fraudulent. The protests, widely dubbed the "Grape Revolution" or the "Twitter Revolution", failed to result in the immediate resignation of the Moldovan government, but it succeeded in new snap parliamentary elections being called in July 2009, which were won by a coalition of pro-EU parties and firmly placed in country in the pro-Western camp. In 2024, a referendum was held, resulting in a slight majority voting to add a clause to the Moldovan constitution that requires the government to pursue [[European Union]] membership. ===Culture=== Geographically located at the crossroads of Latin, Slavic and other cultures, Moldova has enriched its own culture by adopting and maintaining some of the traditions of its neighbours and of other influences. Moldova has a distinct culture, but has heavy influences from Russia, Romania and Ukraine. These influences are most visible in the cuisine in Moldova. While Moldova has its own culinary style, including Mamaliga, Zeama, Placinta and other traditional dishes, a lot of the food eaten or sold here originated from Russia or Romania. Moldovan music has a distinctive flair, but is what you might expect in eastern Europe. There are a lot of accordions, and the traditional costumes and dances are similar to Romanian traditional ones. ===Maps=== Moldova is one of the least visited countries in Europe, so tourist information desks are still very rare. You can't depend only on the usual online maps, especially if you need to find an address in a rural area. What is probably the best online map of Moldova is found at [http://www.map.md map.md] In some kiosks you can buy a two-sided map called "Republic of Moldova: Topographical map, 1:200 000" (Республика Молдова: Топографическая карта, 1:200 000, {{ISBN|9789664970621}} which is based on older Soviet military maps. You can download these in advance and print them, or you can browse them in many apps. ===Visitor information === * [https://moldova.travel/en/ Experience Moldova] tourism information ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of the Republic of Moldova.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Moldova.]] {{VisaRestriction|Entry and transit will be refused to citizens of Taiwan.|lastedit=2025-02-15}} ===Entry requirements=== Citizens of Canada, CIS countries, the EU, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, UK and the US do not need a visa to enter Moldova and can stay in the country for up to 90 days within a six-month period [http://www.mfa.gov.md/entry-visas-moldova/ without registration]. Citizens of other countries must either obtain a visa in the nearest Moldovan embassy or alternatively could obtain a visa on arrival in Chișinău airport and on some land border crossings provided that an officially endorsed invitation letter from Moldova is obtained beforehand. By entering into Moldova via [[Ukraine]], you may be crossing [[Transnistria]]. Some buses from [[Odesa]] go through [[Tiraspol]], while others go around, exchanging the two border crossings with more time on the road. Transnistria is an unrecognised state in the east of Moldova bordering Ukraine, which broke off from the country after a war in 1992. There are generally few issues for Westerners in crossing Transnistrian borders by bus, although foreign travellers have experienced problems in the past. There is, however, a small chance that foreign tourists may be asked to pay bribes, although the buses which travel between Ukraine, Transnistria and the rest of Moldova usually handle negotiations at the border well, collecting passports and negotiating with Transnistrian authorities. Also, there is no Moldovan border check between Transnistria and the rest of Moldova as Moldova does not recognise Transnistria as a state, so you might have some explaining to do when you try to leave Moldova without an entrance stamp. ===By plane=== {{cautionbox|As a result of the war in Ukraine, flights to Moldova may be suspended, particularly if conflict erupts in Transnistria or neighboring areas of Ukraine. Flights to Russia and Ukraine remain suspended. |lastedit=17 April 2022}} [[File:19-01-19-Chișinău RRK0221.jpg|thumb|300px|Chișinău airport]] The main international airport is {{marker|type=go|name=Chișinău International Airport|wikidata=Q844951}} ({{IATA|RMO}}). Airlines that serve several destinations from Chisinau are Wizz Air, HiSky and Fly One{{Go|lastedit=2024-02-11}} Nearby airports are in [[Iași]] ({{IATA|IAS}}) and [[Bacău]] ({{IATA|BCM}}). ===By train=== [[File:Moldova trein.jpg|thumb|300px|Train from Moscow to Chișinău travelling through Moldovan countryside]] Possibly the cheapest way to get into the country is to take the overnight train. There are daily trains from Romania. The train from Bucharest leaves at 19:10 and arrives at about 08:45 and the train from Chișinău leaves at 16:55 arriving at 06:47 in Bucharest. A ticket in a 2nd class, 4-berth sleeper is 593 [[Moldova#Money|Moldovan lei]] (~€28), or 685 Moldovan lei in a 1st class, 2-berth sleeper (2018). Since flights into Bucharest may be cheaper than those into Moldova, this may be an option if you have the time. It is now possible to [http://tracer.railway.md:10000/?lang=ro '''buy tickets online''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} up to two weeks before departure (website in Romanian/Russian only). Just show your printout to the conductor when boarding. At the border crossing the carriages are lifted individually onto larger gauge wheels to fit Moldovan tracks. Crossing the border from Ukraine is smoother, as both countries use the same track gauge. ===By car=== When coming by car use a border crossing with a (non-stop) visa issuing office. You will have to pay a small road tax at the border. A person driving a car which is not registered in their own name must carry a letter of authority from the registered owner. ===By bus=== There are [http://www.autogara.md/ regular buses] connecting [[Chișinău]] with Bucharest, Kyiv and most major Romanian and Ukrainian cities. There are 5-6 buses per day to and from Bucharest. Due to a longer stay at the border the trip takes around 10&nbsp;hours. There is a basic toilet at the border, however most coaches do not make any other stops. You will also be able to travel to most European cities by bus with Moldovan bus companies. When coming by bus one should be sure to use a frontier with a (non-stop) visa issuing office. *[[Kyiv]], 2 daily, 250 lei, 12&nbsp;hours *[[Moscow]], 4 daily, 700 lei, 30&nbsp;hours *[[Odesa]], 20 daily, 90 lei, 5&nbsp;hours *[[Sevastopol]], daily, 430 lei, 18&nbsp;hours *[[Brasov]], 5 daily, 200 lei, 12&nbsp;hours ===By boat=== Although the country is landlocked, there is a ferry service between [[Giurgiulesti|Giurgiulești]] in Moldova and [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]], plying the river Danube to reach the Black Sea. They leave Giurgiulesti every Monday and arrive at Istanbul the following Wednesday. It's not certain if this ferry service is only limited to the high season. ==Get around== [[File:Kišiněv, letiště, AKSM-321 (2019-03-17; 02).jpg|thumb|300px|Trolleybus in Chișinău]] Moldova is small enough to be explored very quickly. For example, a long walk to [[Chișinău]] from Bolhrad − even though that sounds highly impractical − will take you about 34 hours. The most reliable way of getting around the country is by bus. Buses can get you to most parts of the country. You can find information about long-distance bus services in Moldova on the [https://autogari.md/ Autogari] website, for example. This site contains information on bus stations in Moldova, timetables and routes between cities. Chișinău is the main transportation hub for the country. The three bus stations serve every city and town in Moldova. The fastest form of transport are small minibuses which seat around 15 people. Larger buses are also used and are marginally safer, because they travel at slower speeds. In Chișinău there is a state run trolleybus system which includes many new vehicles. Fare is 6 lei; a conductor collects fares and issues tickets. There is also a 'bus service which operates with fewer routes. Minibuses (''rutiere'' in Moldovan Romanian; ''marshrutki'' in Russian) are available in most cities. They are privately operated and are called by requesting the vehicle to stop, however can often be very crowded. Drivers should be paid on boarding (3 lei in Chișinău), however some insist on sitting down first and passing the money to the person in front of them to pass to the driver, so don't be alarmed if people behind you start handing you money. [[File:Moldova road sign 5.1.svg|thumb|Speed limits in Moldova]] ==Talk== {{seealso|Romanian phrasebook}} The official language of the country is '''[[Romanian phrasebook|Romanian]]'''. Since 2023, it has been the state language of the country. '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' is widely spoken in the country, both as a first and second language. If you don't know any Romanian, communicating in Russian should be no problem. '''[[Gagauz phrasebook|Gagauz]]''', a Turkic language, is a language of [[Gagauzia]]. It is closely related to Azerbaijani, Turkish, and Turkmen. If you know either of those three languages, you shouldn't have a problem picking up Gagauz. '''[[Ukrainian phrasebook|Ukrainian]]''' is spoken by the Ukrainian minority and in parts of [[Transnistria]]. '''English''' has been taught in Moldova since the 1990s, but few people speak it well enough to have a full conversation. Therefore, knowledge of Romanian and/or Russian is useful to get around the country independently. Language can be a sensitive issue in this country, and the name of the native language is a source of endless political controversy. Some refer to Romanian as Romanian (''limba română''), while some refer to the same language as Moldovan (''limba moldovenească''), and others prefer to speak Russian. ==See== [[File:The Soroca fortress.jpg|thumb|300px|Soroca fortress]] [[File:Caves Milestii Mici Moldavie.jpg|thumb|300px|Mileștii Mici]] ===Museums=== There are several museums in central [[Chișinău]], including the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, the Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of Fine Arts. ===Wine=== Moldova is famous for its wines, and high-quality wines at inexpensive prices are Moldova’s main tourist attraction. * {{marker|type=see|name=Mileștii Mici|wikidata=Q15625039|url=https://www.milestii-mici.md/en/}} - With over 200&nbsp;kilometres (125&nbsp;miles) of underground roadways, Mileștii Mici is registered in the Guinness World Records as the biggest wine collection in the world. It may be easier to book a tour through a travel agency as one must provide a car for the tour. +373 22 382 333. * {{marker|type=see|name=Cricova|wikidata=Q15212003}} - Moldova's second largest wine cellar has over 120&nbsp;kilometres (75&nbsp;miles) of underground roads. 15&nbsp;minutes drive from Chișinău, it is a favourite of tourists. +373 22-277 378. * {{marker|type=see|name=Purcari|wikidata=Q7260900}} - One of the oldest wineries in Moldova, Purcari wine has been drunk by Russian Emperor Nicolai II and his first cousin, the British King George V. * '''Brănești''' - A smaller and reasonably priced wine cellar. It lies close to Orheiul Vechi Monastery which makes it perfect for combining a monastery tour with wine tasting. ===Monasteries=== * {{marker|type=see|name=[[Orhei|Orheiul Vechi]]|wikidata=Q2382751}} - Moldova's best known sight is a 13th-century Cave Monastery located about a half-hour drive from Chișinău. Just up the road is a tourist centre with a small museum, restaurant and hotel. Call ahead to make sure it's open at +373 235 34 242. The cost to enter the complex is 20 lei or 15 if you are a student, but none of the locals seem to bother to stop to pay. Six marshrutka services run between Chișinău central bus station and the tourist complex every day. In the vicinity are huge cliffs that contain another six complexes of interlocking caves. It is strongly advised to explore them with an experienced guide. The remains of a Turkish bath house is also just off the river. * {{marker|type=see|name=Căpriana Monastery|wikidata=Q1692322}} - One of Moldova’s most prominent monasteries only 40&nbsp;km (25&nbsp;miles) from Chișinău. Buses run hourly in the morning from Calea Ieşilor in the Sculeni part of Chișinău. * {{marker|type=see|name=Bender|wikidata=Q192176}} (or '''Tighina''' in Romanian) - Another fortification is The Fortress of Bender, however it is being used as a military training ground and is off limits. The best views are from the bridge going towards Tiraspol. * {{marker|type=see|name=Tipova Monastery|wikidata=Q3815738}} - Rock monastery situated by Nistru river in mid-eastern Moldova. * {{marker|type=see|name=Saharna Monastery|wikidata=Q675184}} ==Do== * Visit wine cellars * {{do | name=Orhei National Park | alt=Parcul Național Orhei | url=https://www.facebook.com/ParculNationalOrhei | email= | address= | lat=47.3 | long=28.966667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15838244 | lastedit=2019-06-18 | content=A 337 km² national park protected since 2012. }} ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Moldova lei | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;lei | date=January 2025 | USD=17 | EUR=19 | GBP=23 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mdl-moldovan-leu XE.com] }} [[File:MD 1 leu av.jpg|thumb|300px|Moldovan 1 Leu banknote]] The '''leu''' (plural: '''lei''') is the currency of Moldova (ISO 4217 code '''MDL''') . Like the Romanian leu, the Moldovan leu is subdivided into 100 bani (singular: ban). The name of the currency originates in Romania, and means "lion". Banknotes are in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 lei. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 bani, 1, 2, 5 and 10 lei. ===Shopping=== Local wine is of superb quality and cheap in comparison to other countries, but for political reasons is mostly unknown in Western Europe. === Tipping === Moldovans are not accustomed to tipping. ==Eat== Chișinău is a good place for gourmands. There are a lot of good places to eat all over Chișinău. Cheap, tasty food that is very popular with the locals is served in most places. For better service and more diverse food, there are a lot of small restaurants and cafés. Good restaurants have prices comparable to those elsewhere in Europe. For a quick lunch, fast food and pizza shops are recommended; these can be found at nearly every corner. For groceries, there are small shops all over. Some are even in front of apartment blocks just a few steps away from the entrances. For harder-to-find items, go to the supermarkets. For fresh fruits and vegetables, markets are a great place to shop. Most of the products are local, but there are a lot of sellers who to sell imported stuff, mostly oranges, bananas and other tropical fruits and vegetables. Meat and meat products are best purchased from supermarkets or shops. The quality is much better than from the market, and the prices aren't much higher. While in Moldova, make sure you try at least some of the traditional dishes: Mămăligă, plăcintă and sarmale are essential for a complete experience during your visit to Moldova. For the full experience these should be accompanied by homemade wine. ==Drink== [[File:Mileștii Mici Wine Fountain.jpg|thumb|300px|Wine fountain at Mileștii Mici]] Moldova has a long tradition of local [[wine]]. The reds are especially popular throughout the country. Most Moldovan villagers grow their own grapes and press their own wine, and many standard rural households will press thousands of litres per year. The nightlife of Chișinău is also quite spectacular compared to what could be expected. It is the host of many clubs and bars that are equal in every aspect to many other places throughout Eastern Europe. ==Sleep== Accommodation in Chișinău is surprisingly expensive and there is no shortage of €100 a night options. Most hotel prices are listed in euros but some are listed in US dollars. Many smaller towns will have a Soviet relic hotel complete with service with a frown. Rates will be high for what you're getting. In many places it's possible to pay about €10 to stay in a local's house. This is an informal arrangement and can only be organized by talking to people upon arrival but it is well worth considering if you want to get out into the countryside. '''Hostels'''. Hostelling is still in its infancy in Moldova, but there are a few nice hostels to be found in Chișinău. Amongst others Chișinău Hostel and Central Youth Hostel. Prices range from US$10–20. '''Apartments'''. Many people in Chișinău rent out apartments. The location and quality can vary. Many are also not very modern. You may want to use a booking company as it may be hard to find people who speak English. Price €20–50. ==Learn== While none are internationally accredited, there are universities in Chișinău, Bălți and Cahul. ==Work== The unemployment rate in Moldova is one of the highest in Europe. In addition, salaries are very low. Many Moldovans go to work overseas. For foreigners, it may be interesting to work in highly qualified industries, where, nevertheless, salaries are not as high as in most of Europe, although it is easy to get a work visa or work permit. The minimum wage here is about €125, and the average salary is €250-300. Good doctors (especially dentists), IT specialists, economists, teachers of English, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, German, Polish, Turkish are especially appreciated here. To teach languages, you must know Romanian or Russian. ==Stay safe== {{warningbox|Due to the war in Ukraine, many governments '''advise against travel''' to areas near the Moldovan-Ukrainian border and Transnistria. For more information on how to protect yourself while in a war zone, see [[war zone safety]].|lastedit=2025-05-24}} [[File:Mounted Moldavian police in a park.jpg|thumb|300px|Mounted police in Chișinău]] Visitors to Moldova for business or romance should be aware of the potential risk of scams, particularly if first contact was made on the Internet. See [https://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/financial_scams/financial_scams_3155.html International financial scams]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and [https://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_2088.html Russian Internet dating schemes]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Corrupt police and border guards may try to extort bribe money but 'normal' crime rates are low. Locals are generally very friendly and will go to great lengths to provide hospitality to foreigners. You can expect a lengthy, and inevitably boozy, meal to be offered to you just in your honour. Conservative dress must be worn at religious sites. Shorts are forbidden and women must cover their heads inside monasteries and churches. While bribery and police corruption are still problems in Moldova, the situation is improving. It is still advised that tourists have the number of their embassy and the contact information of where they are staying. Foreigners are also required to have their passports on them at all times. There is however usually no one checking this in any normal setting. Alcohol consumption can also be a problem. Running into drunks especially at night is common. Most are friendly; they often come off as aggressive and will invade your personal space. This can be scary the first couple of times. Politely walking away normally works. People coming from a country where less alcohol is consumed can find themselves becoming the drunks. There are few natural hazards in the country. Landslides, mainly due to erosion from poor farming methods, sometimes occur. ==Stay healthy== Very few healthcare facilities are on par with Western standards, and accessibility may be hindered if you're not proficient in Romanian and/or Russian. In the event of a serious medical emergency, it is strongly recommended that you make every effort to seek medical care elsewhere. Neighbouring [[Romania]] may have better healthcare facilities than neighbouring [[Ukraine]]. The US Embassy in Moldova maintains a list of facilities that provide services in English. Refer to [https://md.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/doctors/] for more information. The heavy use of agricultural chemicals, including banned pesticides such as DDT, has contaminated soil and groundwater. If you are concerned, '''[[water]]''' for drinking, cooking and oral hygiene should be taken from a known safe source, as ordinary water treatment, including boiling, does not remove such chemical contamination. ==Respect== Tourists are likely to attract stares from the locals. Do not be alarmed or surprised; this doesn't indicate hostility, but rather, curiosity. This may cause some to treat you as a "walking wallet" or someone who is "wealthy". If you feel like you are about to be scammed by someone, simply ignore them or tell them to go away. Don't feel the need to be polite with scammers; nobody should put up with such behavior. === Women === Women are widely respected in Moldovan society, perhaps more so than any other country in [[Europe]]. There are many female mayors in Moldova and there are many women who have high positions in the government, including the president since 2020. As is the case throughout the former [[USSR]], women are traditionally treated with chivalry in Moldova. Women should not be surprised or alarmed if their male Moldovan friends take the initiative to pay the bills at a restaurant, open every door in front of them, and/or help them carry items or objects. Men should understand that these nuances will be expected by Moldovan women. In rural areas, it is a social taboo for women to smoke or drink alcohol. === Sensitive issues === ==== Politics ==== Moldovan political discourse tends to be polarizing. Moldovans are divided into three opposing camps − those who favor closer ties with the [[European Union]], those who favor closer ties with [[Russia]], and those who want Moldova to be committed to neutrality. You should be mindful of discussing the following political subjects: * '''The possibility of Romania and Moldova unifying''' is a sensitive issue in certain circles, especially among pro-Russian Moldovans. * '''Avoid bringing up the [[Transnistria]] conflict'''; it can be a very sensitive topic of discussion and many Moldovans are opposed to Transnistrian independence. * '''Moldova's relationship with [[Russia]]''' is a complex topic of conversation; while some in [[Gagauzia]] and [[Transnistria]] have favorable opinions of Russia, some pro-European Moldovans, especially supporters of the Sandu administration, do not have positive opinions of the Russian government. Some Moldovans feel that Russia hasn't done enough to acknowledge the role the Soviets played in causing the mass famine in the country during the mid-1940s. * '''The possibility of Moldova joining the [[European Union]]''' is a highly sensitive and polarizing issue. Avoid bringing it up in front of people in [[Gagauzia]] and [[Transnistria]] where pro-Russian sentiment is popular. * '''Identity''' can be a highly sensitive issue in Moldova; most identify as "Moldovan", while some identify as "Romanian" (common among pro-European and unionist Moldovans). This also applies to language as well; even though Romanian is the official language of Moldova, some refer to it as "Moldovan". The foolproof method is to ask someone what they identify as, if they're comfortable discussing it, that is. {{isPartOf|Balkans}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|47|28|zoom=7}} 3baplcxo85kaz22mffn0o69j4stkl4z 5091311 5091310 2025-07-11T10:25:24Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091311 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} {{confused|the neighbouring [[Romania]]n region of [[Moldavia]]}} '''Moldova''' is a small, landlocked country nestled between [[Romania]] and [[Ukraine]]. Moldova is one of the least visited countries in Europe, but adventurous travellers will find some rewarding experiences. Moldova is famous for its wines and its monasteries. You can get winery tours and monastery tours from Chișinău, the capital. == Regions == [[File:Moldova Regions map.png|thumb|right|410px|Map of Moldova]] {{Regionlist|region1name=[[Moldova]]|region1description=Rolling hills and valleys between Dniester and Prut rivers controlled by the Moldovan Government.|region1color=#a9bd9b|region2color=#71b37b|region2name=[[Transnistria]]|region2description=An unrecognized but sovereign and independent territory. Its Soviet-style monuments and statues draw visitors interested in getting a glimpse of life in the old Soviet Union.}} {{disclaimerbox|'''[[Transnistria]]''' is covered in a separate article. While the legitimacy of the Transnistrian government is not recognised by any UN member, for visitors that government has ''de facto'' control of the area (separate visas, laws, currency, etc.) This is not a political endorsement of claims by either side in the dispute.}} ==Cities== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chișinău]]|wikidata=Q21197}} — the capital is a nice city to go and visit for some days, and to walk around in * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bălţi]]|wikidata=Q37801}} — the second largest city, features a pedestrian zone around the central square and a historic city centre * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Soroca]]|wikidata=Q853785}} — known as the "Romani (Gypsy) capital of Moldova", also boasts the Soroca fort built by Stephen the Great in 1499 * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ungheni]]|wikidata=Q858713}} — a border town to Romania with a bridge over the Prut river designed by architect Gustave Eiffel * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Comrat]]|wikidata=Q241122}} — the capital of the territory of Gagauzia, known for wine specific to the southern part of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cahul]]|wikidata=Q503469}} — historically the site of many battles, now known for its spas * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Orhei]]|wikidata=Q423258}} — fortified since the 6th century BC, also famous for its monastery ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gagauzia]]|wikidata=Q164819}}, an autonomous region within Moldova. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Orhei National Park]]|wikidata=Q15838244}} — Moldova's only national park ==Understand== [[File:Chisinau Stefan cel Mare monument.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|A statue of Stephen the Great (1433–1504), the Prince of Moldavia, in Chișinău.]] One of the smallest states of the former USSR, Moldova has been part of two historical empires: the [[Ottoman Empire]] and the [[Russian Empire]]. For several centuries, the country was under Ottoman influence but that all changed during the 1800s when the Russians took control of it. In the years to follow, Moldova became a part of the Russian Empire and later on, the [[Soviet Union]], before declaring independence in the 1990s. Its fertile soils led to Moldova being dubbed "the garden" of the Soviet Union. Moldova is one of the least visited countries on the planet. You are likely to attract intrigued looks from locals curious of what you are doing in the country. Since independence, Moldova has faced numerous difficulties, especially inter-ethnic conflict. Inter-ethnic tensions led to the creation of the proclaimed [[Transnistria]] Republic in eastern Moldova, which has its own government and currency but is not recognised by any UN member country. Economic links have been re-established between these two parts of Moldova despite the failure in political negotiations. Similar to [[Switzerland]], Moldova is committed to neutrality, and has decent relations with virtually every country in the world. Despite Moldova's vast political and economic problems, Moldovans try to be happy and make the most of their situation. ===Climate=== Despite its proximity to the Black Sea, Moldova experiences continental cold and snowy winters, mild springs and autumns, and warm to hot summers. ===Terrain=== Moldova, a landlocked country, mostly consists of rolling steppe, gradually sloping south towards the Black Sea. The country is only slightly hilly: its highest point is Bălănești Hill at 430&nbsp;m. ===History=== {{quickbar|location=LocationMoldova.png}} It was a principality under the suzerainty (protection) of the Ottoman Empire, then part of the Russian Empire after 1811, then part of Romania after World War I. Moldova was forcibly incorporated into the Soviet Union during World War II. * '''Independence Day''' — 27 August 1991 (from Soviet Union) * '''Constitution''' — new constitution adopted 28 July 1994; replaces old Soviet constitution of 1979 Although independent from the Soviet Union since 1991, Russian forces have remained on Moldovan territory east of the Dniester River supporting the Slavic population, mostly Ukrainians and Russians, who have proclaimed the breakaway republic of Transnistria. The poorest nation in Europe, Moldova became the first former Soviet state to elect a communist government and president in 2001. Despite subsequent losses, the Communist Party remains powerful in local politics. Mass protests erupted in April 2009 in the wake of parliamentary elections that resulted in the election of a communist government, which were widely seen as fraudulent. The protests, widely dubbed the "Grape Revolution" or the "Twitter Revolution", failed to result in the immediate resignation of the Moldovan government, but it succeeded in new snap parliamentary elections being called in July 2009, which were won by a coalition of pro-EU parties and firmly placed in country in the pro-Western camp. In 2024, a referendum was held, resulting in a slight majority voting to add a clause to the Moldovan constitution that requires the government to pursue [[European Union]] membership. ===Culture=== Geographically located at the crossroads of Latin, Slavic and other cultures, Moldova has enriched its own culture by adopting and maintaining some of the traditions of its neighbours and of other influences. Moldova has a distinct culture, but has heavy influences from Russia, Romania and Ukraine. These influences are most visible in the cuisine in Moldova. While Moldova has its own culinary style, including Mamaliga, Zeama, Placinta and other traditional dishes, a lot of the food eaten or sold here originated from Russia or Romania. Moldovan music has a distinctive flair, but is what you might expect in eastern Europe. There are a lot of accordions, and the traditional costumes and dances are similar to Romanian traditional ones. ===Maps=== Moldova is one of the least visited countries in Europe, so tourist information desks are still very rare. You can't depend only on the usual online maps, especially if you need to find an address in a rural area. What is probably the best online map of Moldova is found at [http://www.map.md map.md] In some kiosks you can buy a two-sided map called "Republic of Moldova: Topographical map, 1:200 000" (Республика Молдова: Топографическая карта, 1:200 000, {{ISBN|9789664970621}} which is based on older Soviet military maps. You can download these in advance and print them, or you can browse them in many apps. ===Visitor information === * [https://moldova.travel/en/ Experience Moldova] tourism information ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of the Republic of Moldova.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Moldova.]] {{VisaRestriction|Entry and transit will be refused to citizens of Taiwan.|lastedit=2025-02-15}} ===Entry requirements=== Citizens of Canada, CIS countries, the EU, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, UK and the US do not need a visa to enter Moldova and can stay in the country for up to 90 days within a six-month period [http://www.mfa.gov.md/entry-visas-moldova/ without registration]. Citizens of other countries must either obtain a visa in the nearest Moldovan embassy or alternatively could obtain a visa on arrival in Chișinău airport and on some land border crossings provided that an officially endorsed invitation letter from Moldova is obtained beforehand. By entering into Moldova via [[Ukraine]], you may be crossing [[Transnistria]]. Some buses from [[Odesa]] go through [[Tiraspol]], while others go around, exchanging the two border crossings with more time on the road. Transnistria is an unrecognised state in the east of Moldova bordering Ukraine, which broke off from the country after a war in 1992. There are generally few issues for Westerners in crossing Transnistrian borders by bus, although foreign travellers have experienced problems in the past. There is, however, a small chance that foreign tourists may be asked to pay bribes, although the buses which travel between Ukraine, Transnistria and the rest of Moldova usually handle negotiations at the border well, collecting passports and negotiating with Transnistrian authorities. Also, there is no Moldovan border check between Transnistria and the rest of Moldova as Moldova does not recognise Transnistria as a state, so you might have some explaining to do when you try to leave Moldova without an entrance stamp. ===By plane=== {{cautionbox|As a result of the war in Ukraine, flights to Moldova may be suspended, particularly if conflict erupts in Transnistria or neighboring areas of Ukraine. Flights to Russia and Ukraine remain suspended. |lastedit=17 April 2022}} [[File:19-01-19-Chișinău RRK0221.jpg|thumb|300px|Chișinău airport]] The main international airport is {{marker|type=go|name=Chișinău International Airport|wikidata=Q844951}} ({{IATA|RMO}}). Airlines that serve several destinations from Chisinau are Wizz Air, HiSky and Fly One{{Go|lastedit=2024-02-11}} Nearby airports are in [[Iași]] ({{IATA|IAS}}) and [[Bacău]] ({{IATA|BCM}}). ===By train=== [[File:Moldova trein.jpg|thumb|300px|Train from Moscow to Chișinău travelling through Moldovan countryside]] Possibly the cheapest way to get into the country is to take the overnight train. There are daily trains from Romania. The train from Bucharest leaves at 19:10 and arrives at about 08:45 and the train from Chișinău leaves at 16:55 arriving at 06:47 in Bucharest. A ticket in a 2nd class, 4-berth sleeper is 593 [[Moldova#Money|Moldovan lei]] (~€28), or 685 Moldovan lei in a 1st class, 2-berth sleeper (2018). Since flights into Bucharest may be cheaper than those into Moldova, this may be an option if you have the time. It is now possible to [http://tracer.railway.md:10000/?lang=ro '''buy tickets online''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} up to two weeks before departure (website in Romanian/Russian only). Just show your printout to the conductor when boarding. At the border crossing the carriages are lifted individually onto larger gauge wheels to fit Moldovan tracks. Crossing the border from Ukraine is smoother, as both countries use the same track gauge. ===By car=== When coming by car use a border crossing with a (non-stop) visa issuing office. You will have to pay a small road tax at the border. A person driving a car which is not registered in their own name must carry a letter of authority from the registered owner. ===By bus=== There are [http://www.autogara.md/ regular buses] connecting [[Chișinău]] with Bucharest, Kyiv and most major Romanian and Ukrainian cities. There are 5-6 buses per day to and from Bucharest. Due to a longer stay at the border the trip takes around 10&nbsp;hours. There is a basic toilet at the border, however most coaches do not make any other stops. You will also be able to travel to most European cities by bus with Moldovan bus companies. When coming by bus one should be sure to use a frontier with a (non-stop) visa issuing office. *[[Kyiv]], 2 daily, 250 lei, 12&nbsp;hours *[[Moscow]], 4 daily, 700 lei, 30&nbsp;hours *[[Odesa]], 20 daily, 90 lei, 5&nbsp;hours *[[Sevastopol]], daily, 430 lei, 18&nbsp;hours *[[Brasov]], 5 daily, 200 lei, 12&nbsp;hours ===By boat=== Although the country is landlocked, there is a ferry service between [[Giurgiulesti|Giurgiulești]] in Moldova and [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]], plying the river Danube to reach the Black Sea. They leave Giurgiulesti every Monday and arrive at Istanbul the following Wednesday. It's not certain if this ferry service is only limited to the high season. ==Get around== [[File:Kišiněv, letiště, AKSM-321 (2019-03-17; 02).jpg|thumb|300px|Trolleybus in Chișinău]] Moldova is small enough to be explored very quickly. For example, a long walk to [[Chișinău]] from Bolhrad − even though that sounds highly impractical − will take you about 34 hours. The most reliable way of getting around the country is by bus. Buses can get you to most parts of the country. You can find information about long-distance bus services in Moldova on the [https://autogari.md/ Autogari] website, for example. This site contains information on bus stations in Moldova, timetables and routes between cities. Chișinău is the main transportation hub for the country. The three bus stations serve every city and town in Moldova. The fastest form of transport are small minibuses which seat around 15 people. Larger buses are also used and are marginally safer, because they travel at slower speeds. In Chișinău there is a state run trolleybus system which includes many new vehicles. Fare is 6 lei; a conductor collects fares and issues tickets. There is also a 'bus service which operates with fewer routes. Minibuses (''rutiere'' in Moldovan Romanian; ''marshrutki'' in Russian) are available in most cities. They are privately operated and are called by requesting the vehicle to stop, however can often be very crowded. Drivers should be paid on boarding (3 lei in Chișinău), however some insist on sitting down first and passing the money to the person in front of them to pass to the driver, so don't be alarmed if people behind you start handing you money. [[File:Moldova road sign 5.1.svg|thumb|Speed limits in Moldova]] ==Talk== {{seealso|Romanian phrasebook}} The official language of the country is '''[[Romanian phrasebook|Romanian]]'''. Since 2023, it has been the state language of the country. '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' is widely spoken in the country, both as a first and second language. If you don't know any Romanian, communicating in Russian should be no problem. '''[[Gagauz phrasebook|Gagauz]]''', a Turkic language, is a language of [[Gagauzia]]. It is closely related to Azerbaijani, Turkish, and Turkmen. If you know either of those three languages, you shouldn't have a problem picking up Gagauz. '''[[Ukrainian phrasebook|Ukrainian]]''' is spoken by the Ukrainian minority and in parts of [[Transnistria]]. '''English''' has been taught in Moldova since the 1990s, but few people speak it well enough to have a full conversation. Therefore, knowledge of Romanian and/or Russian is useful to get around the country independently. Language can be a sensitive issue in this country, and the name of the native language is a source of endless political controversy. Some refer to Romanian as Romanian (''limba română''), while some refer to the same language as Moldovan (''limba moldovenească''), and others prefer to speak Russian. ==See== [[File:The Soroca fortress.jpg|thumb|300px|Soroca fortress]] [[File:Caves Milestii Mici Moldavie.jpg|thumb|300px|Mileștii Mici]] ===Museums=== There are several museums in central [[Chișinău]], including the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, the Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of Fine Arts. ===Wine=== Moldova is famous for its wines, and high-quality wines at inexpensive prices are Moldova’s main tourist attraction. * {{marker|type=see|name=Mileștii Mici|wikidata=Q15625039|url=https://www.milestii-mici.md/en/}} - With over 200&nbsp;kilometres (125&nbsp;miles) of underground roadways, Mileștii Mici is registered in the Guinness World Records as the biggest wine collection in the world. It may be easier to book a tour through a travel agency as one must provide a car for the tour. +373 22 382 333. * {{marker|type=see|name=Cricova|wikidata=Q15212003}} - Moldova's second largest wine cellar has over 120&nbsp;kilometres (75&nbsp;miles) of underground roads. 15&nbsp;minutes drive from Chișinău, it is a favourite of tourists. +373 22-277 378. * {{marker|type=see|name=Purcari|wikidata=Q7260900}} - One of the oldest wineries in Moldova, Purcari wine has been drunk by Russian Emperor Nicolai II and his first cousin, the British King George V. * '''Brănești''' - A smaller and reasonably priced wine cellar. It lies close to Orheiul Vechi Monastery which makes it perfect for combining a monastery tour with wine tasting. ===Monasteries=== * {{marker|type=see|name=[[Orhei|Orheiul Vechi]]|wikidata=Q2382751}} - Moldova's best known sight is a 13th-century Cave Monastery located about a half-hour drive from Chișinău. Just up the road is a tourist centre with a small museum, restaurant and hotel. Call ahead to make sure it's open at +373 235 34 242. The cost to enter the complex is 20 lei or 15 if you are a student, but none of the locals seem to bother to stop to pay. Six marshrutka services run between Chișinău central bus station and the tourist complex every day. In the vicinity are huge cliffs that contain another six complexes of interlocking caves. It is strongly advised to explore them with an experienced guide. The remains of a Turkish bath house is also just off the river. * {{marker|type=see|name=Căpriana Monastery|wikidata=Q1692322}} - One of Moldova’s most prominent monasteries only 40&nbsp;km (25&nbsp;miles) from Chișinău. Buses run hourly in the morning from Calea Ieşilor in the Sculeni part of Chișinău. * {{marker|type=see|name=Bender|wikidata=Q192176}} (or '''Tighina''' in Romanian) - Another fortification is The Fortress of Bender, however it is being used as a military training ground and is off limits. The best views are from the bridge going towards Tiraspol. * {{marker|type=see|name=Tipova Monastery|wikidata=Q3815738}} - Rock monastery situated by Nistru river in mid-eastern Moldova. * {{marker|type=see|name=Saharna Monastery|wikidata=Q675184}} ==Do== * Visit wine cellars * {{do | name=Orhei National Park | alt=Parcul Național Orhei | url=https://www.facebook.com/ParculNationalOrhei | email= | address= | lat=47.3 | long=28.966667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15838244 | lastedit=2019-06-18 | content=A 337 km² national park protected since 2012. }} ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Moldova lei | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;lei | date=January 2025 | USD=17 | EUR=20 | GBP=23 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mdl-moldovan-leu XE.com] }} [[File:MD 1 leu av.jpg|thumb|300px|Moldovan 1 Leu banknote]] The '''leu''' (plural: '''lei''') is the currency of Moldova (ISO 4217 code '''MDL''') . Like the Romanian leu, the Moldovan leu is subdivided into 100 bani (singular: ban). The name of the currency originates in Romania, and means "lion". Banknotes are in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 lei. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 bani, 1, 2, 5 and 10 lei. ===Shopping=== Local wine is of superb quality and cheap in comparison to other countries, but for political reasons is mostly unknown in Western Europe. === Tipping === Moldovans are not accustomed to tipping. ==Eat== Chișinău is a good place for gourmands. There are a lot of good places to eat all over Chișinău. Cheap, tasty food that is very popular with the locals is served in most places. For better service and more diverse food, there are a lot of small restaurants and cafés. Good restaurants have prices comparable to those elsewhere in Europe. For a quick lunch, fast food and pizza shops are recommended; these can be found at nearly every corner. For groceries, there are small shops all over. Some are even in front of apartment blocks just a few steps away from the entrances. For harder-to-find items, go to the supermarkets. For fresh fruits and vegetables, markets are a great place to shop. Most of the products are local, but there are a lot of sellers who to sell imported stuff, mostly oranges, bananas and other tropical fruits and vegetables. Meat and meat products are best purchased from supermarkets or shops. The quality is much better than from the market, and the prices aren't much higher. While in Moldova, make sure you try at least some of the traditional dishes: Mămăligă, plăcintă and sarmale are essential for a complete experience during your visit to Moldova. For the full experience these should be accompanied by homemade wine. ==Drink== [[File:Mileștii Mici Wine Fountain.jpg|thumb|300px|Wine fountain at Mileștii Mici]] Moldova has a long tradition of local [[wine]]. The reds are especially popular throughout the country. Most Moldovan villagers grow their own grapes and press their own wine, and many standard rural households will press thousands of litres per year. The nightlife of Chișinău is also quite spectacular compared to what could be expected. It is the host of many clubs and bars that are equal in every aspect to many other places throughout Eastern Europe. ==Sleep== Accommodation in Chișinău is surprisingly expensive and there is no shortage of €100 a night options. Most hotel prices are listed in euros but some are listed in US dollars. Many smaller towns will have a Soviet relic hotel complete with service with a frown. Rates will be high for what you're getting. In many places it's possible to pay about €10 to stay in a local's house. This is an informal arrangement and can only be organized by talking to people upon arrival but it is well worth considering if you want to get out into the countryside. '''Hostels'''. Hostelling is still in its infancy in Moldova, but there are a few nice hostels to be found in Chișinău. Amongst others Chișinău Hostel and Central Youth Hostel. Prices range from US$10–20. '''Apartments'''. Many people in Chișinău rent out apartments. The location and quality can vary. Many are also not very modern. You may want to use a booking company as it may be hard to find people who speak English. Price €20–50. ==Learn== While none are internationally accredited, there are universities in Chișinău, Bălți and Cahul. ==Work== The unemployment rate in Moldova is one of the highest in Europe. In addition, salaries are very low. Many Moldovans go to work overseas. For foreigners, it may be interesting to work in highly qualified industries, where, nevertheless, salaries are not as high as in most of Europe, although it is easy to get a work visa or work permit. The minimum wage here is about €125, and the average salary is €250-300. Good doctors (especially dentists), IT specialists, economists, teachers of English, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, German, Polish, Turkish are especially appreciated here. To teach languages, you must know Romanian or Russian. ==Stay safe== {{warningbox|Due to the war in Ukraine, many governments '''advise against travel''' to areas near the Moldovan-Ukrainian border and Transnistria. For more information on how to protect yourself while in a war zone, see [[war zone safety]].|lastedit=2025-05-24}} [[File:Mounted Moldavian police in a park.jpg|thumb|300px|Mounted police in Chișinău]] Visitors to Moldova for business or romance should be aware of the potential risk of scams, particularly if first contact was made on the Internet. See [https://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/financial_scams/financial_scams_3155.html International financial scams]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and [https://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_2088.html Russian Internet dating schemes]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Corrupt police and border guards may try to extort bribe money but 'normal' crime rates are low. Locals are generally very friendly and will go to great lengths to provide hospitality to foreigners. You can expect a lengthy, and inevitably boozy, meal to be offered to you just in your honour. Conservative dress must be worn at religious sites. Shorts are forbidden and women must cover their heads inside monasteries and churches. While bribery and police corruption are still problems in Moldova, the situation is improving. It is still advised that tourists have the number of their embassy and the contact information of where they are staying. Foreigners are also required to have their passports on them at all times. There is however usually no one checking this in any normal setting. Alcohol consumption can also be a problem. Running into drunks especially at night is common. Most are friendly; they often come off as aggressive and will invade your personal space. This can be scary the first couple of times. Politely walking away normally works. People coming from a country where less alcohol is consumed can find themselves becoming the drunks. There are few natural hazards in the country. Landslides, mainly due to erosion from poor farming methods, sometimes occur. ==Stay healthy== Very few healthcare facilities are on par with Western standards, and accessibility may be hindered if you're not proficient in Romanian and/or Russian. In the event of a serious medical emergency, it is strongly recommended that you make every effort to seek medical care elsewhere. Neighbouring [[Romania]] may have better healthcare facilities than neighbouring [[Ukraine]]. The US Embassy in Moldova maintains a list of facilities that provide services in English. Refer to [https://md.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/doctors/] for more information. The heavy use of agricultural chemicals, including banned pesticides such as DDT, has contaminated soil and groundwater. If you are concerned, '''[[water]]''' for drinking, cooking and oral hygiene should be taken from a known safe source, as ordinary water treatment, including boiling, does not remove such chemical contamination. ==Respect== Tourists are likely to attract stares from the locals. Do not be alarmed or surprised; this doesn't indicate hostility, but rather, curiosity. This may cause some to treat you as a "walking wallet" or someone who is "wealthy". If you feel like you are about to be scammed by someone, simply ignore them or tell them to go away. Don't feel the need to be polite with scammers; nobody should put up with such behavior. === Women === Women are widely respected in Moldovan society, perhaps more so than any other country in [[Europe]]. There are many female mayors in Moldova and there are many women who have high positions in the government, including the president since 2020. As is the case throughout the former [[USSR]], women are traditionally treated with chivalry in Moldova. Women should not be surprised or alarmed if their male Moldovan friends take the initiative to pay the bills at a restaurant, open every door in front of them, and/or help them carry items or objects. Men should understand that these nuances will be expected by Moldovan women. In rural areas, it is a social taboo for women to smoke or drink alcohol. === Sensitive issues === ==== Politics ==== Moldovan political discourse tends to be polarizing. Moldovans are divided into three opposing camps − those who favor closer ties with the [[European Union]], those who favor closer ties with [[Russia]], and those who want Moldova to be committed to neutrality. You should be mindful of discussing the following political subjects: * '''The possibility of Romania and Moldova unifying''' is a sensitive issue in certain circles, especially among pro-Russian Moldovans. * '''Avoid bringing up the [[Transnistria]] conflict'''; it can be a very sensitive topic of discussion and many Moldovans are opposed to Transnistrian independence. * '''Moldova's relationship with [[Russia]]''' is a complex topic of conversation; while some in [[Gagauzia]] and [[Transnistria]] have favorable opinions of Russia, some pro-European Moldovans, especially supporters of the Sandu administration, do not have positive opinions of the Russian government. Some Moldovans feel that Russia hasn't done enough to acknowledge the role the Soviets played in causing the mass famine in the country during the mid-1940s. * '''The possibility of Moldova joining the [[European Union]]''' is a highly sensitive and polarizing issue. Avoid bringing it up in front of people in [[Gagauzia]] and [[Transnistria]] where pro-Russian sentiment is popular. * '''Identity''' can be a highly sensitive issue in Moldova; most identify as "Moldovan", while some identify as "Romanian" (common among pro-European and unionist Moldovans). This also applies to language as well; even though Romanian is the official language of Moldova, some refer to it as "Moldovan". The foolproof method is to ask someone what they identify as, if they're comfortable discussing it, that is. {{isPartOf|Balkans}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|47|28|zoom=7}} ih16u64l1g69g12yprp2bgq0y8gxx8y 5091313 5091311 2025-07-11T10:25:37Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091313 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} {{confused|the neighbouring [[Romania]]n region of [[Moldavia]]}} '''Moldova''' is a small, landlocked country nestled between [[Romania]] and [[Ukraine]]. Moldova is one of the least visited countries in Europe, but adventurous travellers will find some rewarding experiences. Moldova is famous for its wines and its monasteries. You can get winery tours and monastery tours from Chișinău, the capital. == Regions == [[File:Moldova Regions map.png|thumb|right|410px|Map of Moldova]] {{Regionlist|region1name=[[Moldova]]|region1description=Rolling hills and valleys between Dniester and Prut rivers controlled by the Moldovan Government.|region1color=#a9bd9b|region2color=#71b37b|region2name=[[Transnistria]]|region2description=An unrecognized but sovereign and independent territory. Its Soviet-style monuments and statues draw visitors interested in getting a glimpse of life in the old Soviet Union.}} {{disclaimerbox|'''[[Transnistria]]''' is covered in a separate article. While the legitimacy of the Transnistrian government is not recognised by any UN member, for visitors that government has ''de facto'' control of the area (separate visas, laws, currency, etc.) This is not a political endorsement of claims by either side in the dispute.}} ==Cities== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chișinău]]|wikidata=Q21197}} — the capital is a nice city to go and visit for some days, and to walk around in * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bălţi]]|wikidata=Q37801}} — the second largest city, features a pedestrian zone around the central square and a historic city centre * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Soroca]]|wikidata=Q853785}} — known as the "Romani (Gypsy) capital of Moldova", also boasts the Soroca fort built by Stephen the Great in 1499 * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ungheni]]|wikidata=Q858713}} — a border town to Romania with a bridge over the Prut river designed by architect Gustave Eiffel * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Comrat]]|wikidata=Q241122}} — the capital of the territory of Gagauzia, known for wine specific to the southern part of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cahul]]|wikidata=Q503469}} — historically the site of many battles, now known for its spas * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Orhei]]|wikidata=Q423258}} — fortified since the 6th century BC, also famous for its monastery ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gagauzia]]|wikidata=Q164819}}, an autonomous region within Moldova. * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Orhei National Park]]|wikidata=Q15838244}} — Moldova's only national park ==Understand== [[File:Chisinau Stefan cel Mare monument.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|A statue of Stephen the Great (1433–1504), the Prince of Moldavia, in Chișinău.]] One of the smallest states of the former USSR, Moldova has been part of two historical empires: the [[Ottoman Empire]] and the [[Russian Empire]]. For several centuries, the country was under Ottoman influence but that all changed during the 1800s when the Russians took control of it. In the years to follow, Moldova became a part of the Russian Empire and later on, the [[Soviet Union]], before declaring independence in the 1990s. Its fertile soils led to Moldova being dubbed "the garden" of the Soviet Union. Moldova is one of the least visited countries on the planet. You are likely to attract intrigued looks from locals curious of what you are doing in the country. Since independence, Moldova has faced numerous difficulties, especially inter-ethnic conflict. Inter-ethnic tensions led to the creation of the proclaimed [[Transnistria]] Republic in eastern Moldova, which has its own government and currency but is not recognised by any UN member country. Economic links have been re-established between these two parts of Moldova despite the failure in political negotiations. Similar to [[Switzerland]], Moldova is committed to neutrality, and has decent relations with virtually every country in the world. Despite Moldova's vast political and economic problems, Moldovans try to be happy and make the most of their situation. ===Climate=== Despite its proximity to the Black Sea, Moldova experiences continental cold and snowy winters, mild springs and autumns, and warm to hot summers. ===Terrain=== Moldova, a landlocked country, mostly consists of rolling steppe, gradually sloping south towards the Black Sea. The country is only slightly hilly: its highest point is Bălănești Hill at 430&nbsp;m. ===History=== {{quickbar|location=LocationMoldova.png}} It was a principality under the suzerainty (protection) of the Ottoman Empire, then part of the Russian Empire after 1811, then part of Romania after World War I. Moldova was forcibly incorporated into the Soviet Union during World War II. * '''Independence Day''' — 27 August 1991 (from Soviet Union) * '''Constitution''' — new constitution adopted 28 July 1994; replaces old Soviet constitution of 1979 Although independent from the Soviet Union since 1991, Russian forces have remained on Moldovan territory east of the Dniester River supporting the Slavic population, mostly Ukrainians and Russians, who have proclaimed the breakaway republic of Transnistria. The poorest nation in Europe, Moldova became the first former Soviet state to elect a communist government and president in 2001. Despite subsequent losses, the Communist Party remains powerful in local politics. Mass protests erupted in April 2009 in the wake of parliamentary elections that resulted in the election of a communist government, which were widely seen as fraudulent. The protests, widely dubbed the "Grape Revolution" or the "Twitter Revolution", failed to result in the immediate resignation of the Moldovan government, but it succeeded in new snap parliamentary elections being called in July 2009, which were won by a coalition of pro-EU parties and firmly placed in country in the pro-Western camp. In 2024, a referendum was held, resulting in a slight majority voting to add a clause to the Moldovan constitution that requires the government to pursue [[European Union]] membership. ===Culture=== Geographically located at the crossroads of Latin, Slavic and other cultures, Moldova has enriched its own culture by adopting and maintaining some of the traditions of its neighbours and of other influences. Moldova has a distinct culture, but has heavy influences from Russia, Romania and Ukraine. These influences are most visible in the cuisine in Moldova. While Moldova has its own culinary style, including Mamaliga, Zeama, Placinta and other traditional dishes, a lot of the food eaten or sold here originated from Russia or Romania. Moldovan music has a distinctive flair, but is what you might expect in eastern Europe. There are a lot of accordions, and the traditional costumes and dances are similar to Romanian traditional ones. ===Maps=== Moldova is one of the least visited countries in Europe, so tourist information desks are still very rare. You can't depend only on the usual online maps, especially if you need to find an address in a rural area. What is probably the best online map of Moldova is found at [http://www.map.md map.md] In some kiosks you can buy a two-sided map called "Republic of Moldova: Topographical map, 1:200 000" (Республика Молдова: Топографическая карта, 1:200 000, {{ISBN|9789664970621}} which is based on older Soviet military maps. You can download these in advance and print them, or you can browse them in many apps. ===Visitor information === * [https://moldova.travel/en/ Experience Moldova] tourism information ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of the Republic of Moldova.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Moldova.]] {{VisaRestriction|Entry and transit will be refused to citizens of Taiwan.|lastedit=2025-02-15}} ===Entry requirements=== Citizens of Canada, CIS countries, the EU, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, UK and the US do not need a visa to enter Moldova and can stay in the country for up to 90 days within a six-month period [http://www.mfa.gov.md/entry-visas-moldova/ without registration]. Citizens of other countries must either obtain a visa in the nearest Moldovan embassy or alternatively could obtain a visa on arrival in Chișinău airport and on some land border crossings provided that an officially endorsed invitation letter from Moldova is obtained beforehand. By entering into Moldova via [[Ukraine]], you may be crossing [[Transnistria]]. Some buses from [[Odesa]] go through [[Tiraspol]], while others go around, exchanging the two border crossings with more time on the road. Transnistria is an unrecognised state in the east of Moldova bordering Ukraine, which broke off from the country after a war in 1992. There are generally few issues for Westerners in crossing Transnistrian borders by bus, although foreign travellers have experienced problems in the past. There is, however, a small chance that foreign tourists may be asked to pay bribes, although the buses which travel between Ukraine, Transnistria and the rest of Moldova usually handle negotiations at the border well, collecting passports and negotiating with Transnistrian authorities. Also, there is no Moldovan border check between Transnistria and the rest of Moldova as Moldova does not recognise Transnistria as a state, so you might have some explaining to do when you try to leave Moldova without an entrance stamp. ===By plane=== {{cautionbox|As a result of the war in Ukraine, flights to Moldova may be suspended, particularly if conflict erupts in Transnistria or neighboring areas of Ukraine. Flights to Russia and Ukraine remain suspended. |lastedit=17 April 2022}} [[File:19-01-19-Chișinău RRK0221.jpg|thumb|300px|Chișinău airport]] The main international airport is {{marker|type=go|name=Chișinău International Airport|wikidata=Q844951}} ({{IATA|RMO}}). Airlines that serve several destinations from Chisinau are Wizz Air, HiSky and Fly One{{Go|lastedit=2024-02-11}} Nearby airports are in [[Iași]] ({{IATA|IAS}}) and [[Bacău]] ({{IATA|BCM}}). ===By train=== [[File:Moldova trein.jpg|thumb|300px|Train from Moscow to Chișinău travelling through Moldovan countryside]] Possibly the cheapest way to get into the country is to take the overnight train. There are daily trains from Romania. The train from Bucharest leaves at 19:10 and arrives at about 08:45 and the train from Chișinău leaves at 16:55 arriving at 06:47 in Bucharest. A ticket in a 2nd class, 4-berth sleeper is 593 [[Moldova#Money|Moldovan lei]] (~€28), or 685 Moldovan lei in a 1st class, 2-berth sleeper (2018). Since flights into Bucharest may be cheaper than those into Moldova, this may be an option if you have the time. It is now possible to [http://tracer.railway.md:10000/?lang=ro '''buy tickets online''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} up to two weeks before departure (website in Romanian/Russian only). Just show your printout to the conductor when boarding. At the border crossing the carriages are lifted individually onto larger gauge wheels to fit Moldovan tracks. Crossing the border from Ukraine is smoother, as both countries use the same track gauge. ===By car=== When coming by car use a border crossing with a (non-stop) visa issuing office. You will have to pay a small road tax at the border. A person driving a car which is not registered in their own name must carry a letter of authority from the registered owner. ===By bus=== There are [http://www.autogara.md/ regular buses] connecting [[Chișinău]] with Bucharest, Kyiv and most major Romanian and Ukrainian cities. There are 5-6 buses per day to and from Bucharest. Due to a longer stay at the border the trip takes around 10&nbsp;hours. There is a basic toilet at the border, however most coaches do not make any other stops. You will also be able to travel to most European cities by bus with Moldovan bus companies. When coming by bus one should be sure to use a frontier with a (non-stop) visa issuing office. *[[Kyiv]], 2 daily, 250 lei, 12&nbsp;hours *[[Moscow]], 4 daily, 700 lei, 30&nbsp;hours *[[Odesa]], 20 daily, 90 lei, 5&nbsp;hours *[[Sevastopol]], daily, 430 lei, 18&nbsp;hours *[[Brasov]], 5 daily, 200 lei, 12&nbsp;hours ===By boat=== Although the country is landlocked, there is a ferry service between [[Giurgiulesti|Giurgiulești]] in Moldova and [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]], plying the river Danube to reach the Black Sea. They leave Giurgiulesti every Monday and arrive at Istanbul the following Wednesday. It's not certain if this ferry service is only limited to the high season. ==Get around== [[File:Kišiněv, letiště, AKSM-321 (2019-03-17; 02).jpg|thumb|300px|Trolleybus in Chișinău]] Moldova is small enough to be explored very quickly. For example, a long walk to [[Chișinău]] from Bolhrad − even though that sounds highly impractical − will take you about 34 hours. The most reliable way of getting around the country is by bus. Buses can get you to most parts of the country. You can find information about long-distance bus services in Moldova on the [https://autogari.md/ Autogari] website, for example. This site contains information on bus stations in Moldova, timetables and routes between cities. Chișinău is the main transportation hub for the country. The three bus stations serve every city and town in Moldova. The fastest form of transport are small minibuses which seat around 15 people. Larger buses are also used and are marginally safer, because they travel at slower speeds. In Chișinău there is a state run trolleybus system which includes many new vehicles. Fare is 6 lei; a conductor collects fares and issues tickets. There is also a 'bus service which operates with fewer routes. Minibuses (''rutiere'' in Moldovan Romanian; ''marshrutki'' in Russian) are available in most cities. They are privately operated and are called by requesting the vehicle to stop, however can often be very crowded. Drivers should be paid on boarding (3 lei in Chișinău), however some insist on sitting down first and passing the money to the person in front of them to pass to the driver, so don't be alarmed if people behind you start handing you money. [[File:Moldova road sign 5.1.svg|thumb|Speed limits in Moldova]] ==Talk== {{seealso|Romanian phrasebook}} The official language of the country is '''[[Romanian phrasebook|Romanian]]'''. Since 2023, it has been the state language of the country. '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' is widely spoken in the country, both as a first and second language. If you don't know any Romanian, communicating in Russian should be no problem. '''[[Gagauz phrasebook|Gagauz]]''', a Turkic language, is a language of [[Gagauzia]]. It is closely related to Azerbaijani, Turkish, and Turkmen. If you know either of those three languages, you shouldn't have a problem picking up Gagauz. '''[[Ukrainian phrasebook|Ukrainian]]''' is spoken by the Ukrainian minority and in parts of [[Transnistria]]. '''English''' has been taught in Moldova since the 1990s, but few people speak it well enough to have a full conversation. Therefore, knowledge of Romanian and/or Russian is useful to get around the country independently. Language can be a sensitive issue in this country, and the name of the native language is a source of endless political controversy. Some refer to Romanian as Romanian (''limba română''), while some refer to the same language as Moldovan (''limba moldovenească''), and others prefer to speak Russian. ==See== [[File:The Soroca fortress.jpg|thumb|300px|Soroca fortress]] [[File:Caves Milestii Mici Moldavie.jpg|thumb|300px|Mileștii Mici]] ===Museums=== There are several museums in central [[Chișinău]], including the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, the Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of Fine Arts. ===Wine=== Moldova is famous for its wines, and high-quality wines at inexpensive prices are Moldova’s main tourist attraction. * {{marker|type=see|name=Mileștii Mici|wikidata=Q15625039|url=https://www.milestii-mici.md/en/}} - With over 200&nbsp;kilometres (125&nbsp;miles) of underground roadways, Mileștii Mici is registered in the Guinness World Records as the biggest wine collection in the world. It may be easier to book a tour through a travel agency as one must provide a car for the tour. +373 22 382 333. * {{marker|type=see|name=Cricova|wikidata=Q15212003}} - Moldova's second largest wine cellar has over 120&nbsp;kilometres (75&nbsp;miles) of underground roads. 15&nbsp;minutes drive from Chișinău, it is a favourite of tourists. +373 22-277 378. * {{marker|type=see|name=Purcari|wikidata=Q7260900}} - One of the oldest wineries in Moldova, Purcari wine has been drunk by Russian Emperor Nicolai II and his first cousin, the British King George V. * '''Brănești''' - A smaller and reasonably priced wine cellar. It lies close to Orheiul Vechi Monastery which makes it perfect for combining a monastery tour with wine tasting. ===Monasteries=== * {{marker|type=see|name=[[Orhei|Orheiul Vechi]]|wikidata=Q2382751}} - Moldova's best known sight is a 13th-century Cave Monastery located about a half-hour drive from Chișinău. Just up the road is a tourist centre with a small museum, restaurant and hotel. Call ahead to make sure it's open at +373 235 34 242. The cost to enter the complex is 20 lei or 15 if you are a student, but none of the locals seem to bother to stop to pay. Six marshrutka services run between Chișinău central bus station and the tourist complex every day. In the vicinity are huge cliffs that contain another six complexes of interlocking caves. It is strongly advised to explore them with an experienced guide. The remains of a Turkish bath house is also just off the river. * {{marker|type=see|name=Căpriana Monastery|wikidata=Q1692322}} - One of Moldova’s most prominent monasteries only 40&nbsp;km (25&nbsp;miles) from Chișinău. Buses run hourly in the morning from Calea Ieşilor in the Sculeni part of Chișinău. * {{marker|type=see|name=Bender|wikidata=Q192176}} (or '''Tighina''' in Romanian) - Another fortification is The Fortress of Bender, however it is being used as a military training ground and is off limits. The best views are from the bridge going towards Tiraspol. * {{marker|type=see|name=Tipova Monastery|wikidata=Q3815738}} - Rock monastery situated by Nistru river in mid-eastern Moldova. * {{marker|type=see|name=Saharna Monastery|wikidata=Q675184}} ==Do== * Visit wine cellars * {{do | name=Orhei National Park | alt=Parcul Național Orhei | url=https://www.facebook.com/ParculNationalOrhei | email= | address= | lat=47.3 | long=28.966667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15838244 | lastedit=2019-06-18 | content=A 337 km² national park protected since 2012. }} ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Moldova lei | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;lei | date=July 2025 | USD=17 | EUR=20 | GBP=23 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mdl-moldovan-leu XE.com] }} [[File:MD 1 leu av.jpg|thumb|300px|Moldovan 1 Leu banknote]] The '''leu''' (plural: '''lei''') is the currency of Moldova (ISO 4217 code '''MDL''') . Like the Romanian leu, the Moldovan leu is subdivided into 100 bani (singular: ban). The name of the currency originates in Romania, and means "lion". Banknotes are in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 lei. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 bani, 1, 2, 5 and 10 lei. ===Shopping=== Local wine is of superb quality and cheap in comparison to other countries, but for political reasons is mostly unknown in Western Europe. === Tipping === Moldovans are not accustomed to tipping. ==Eat== Chișinău is a good place for gourmands. There are a lot of good places to eat all over Chișinău. Cheap, tasty food that is very popular with the locals is served in most places. For better service and more diverse food, there are a lot of small restaurants and cafés. Good restaurants have prices comparable to those elsewhere in Europe. For a quick lunch, fast food and pizza shops are recommended; these can be found at nearly every corner. For groceries, there are small shops all over. Some are even in front of apartment blocks just a few steps away from the entrances. For harder-to-find items, go to the supermarkets. For fresh fruits and vegetables, markets are a great place to shop. Most of the products are local, but there are a lot of sellers who to sell imported stuff, mostly oranges, bananas and other tropical fruits and vegetables. Meat and meat products are best purchased from supermarkets or shops. The quality is much better than from the market, and the prices aren't much higher. While in Moldova, make sure you try at least some of the traditional dishes: Mămăligă, plăcintă and sarmale are essential for a complete experience during your visit to Moldova. For the full experience these should be accompanied by homemade wine. ==Drink== [[File:Mileștii Mici Wine Fountain.jpg|thumb|300px|Wine fountain at Mileștii Mici]] Moldova has a long tradition of local [[wine]]. The reds are especially popular throughout the country. Most Moldovan villagers grow their own grapes and press their own wine, and many standard rural households will press thousands of litres per year. The nightlife of Chișinău is also quite spectacular compared to what could be expected. It is the host of many clubs and bars that are equal in every aspect to many other places throughout Eastern Europe. ==Sleep== Accommodation in Chișinău is surprisingly expensive and there is no shortage of €100 a night options. Most hotel prices are listed in euros but some are listed in US dollars. Many smaller towns will have a Soviet relic hotel complete with service with a frown. Rates will be high for what you're getting. In many places it's possible to pay about €10 to stay in a local's house. This is an informal arrangement and can only be organized by talking to people upon arrival but it is well worth considering if you want to get out into the countryside. '''Hostels'''. Hostelling is still in its infancy in Moldova, but there are a few nice hostels to be found in Chișinău. Amongst others Chișinău Hostel and Central Youth Hostel. Prices range from US$10–20. '''Apartments'''. Many people in Chișinău rent out apartments. The location and quality can vary. Many are also not very modern. You may want to use a booking company as it may be hard to find people who speak English. Price €20–50. ==Learn== While none are internationally accredited, there are universities in Chișinău, Bălți and Cahul. ==Work== The unemployment rate in Moldova is one of the highest in Europe. In addition, salaries are very low. Many Moldovans go to work overseas. For foreigners, it may be interesting to work in highly qualified industries, where, nevertheless, salaries are not as high as in most of Europe, although it is easy to get a work visa or work permit. The minimum wage here is about €125, and the average salary is €250-300. Good doctors (especially dentists), IT specialists, economists, teachers of English, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, German, Polish, Turkish are especially appreciated here. To teach languages, you must know Romanian or Russian. ==Stay safe== {{warningbox|Due to the war in Ukraine, many governments '''advise against travel''' to areas near the Moldovan-Ukrainian border and Transnistria. For more information on how to protect yourself while in a war zone, see [[war zone safety]].|lastedit=2025-05-24}} [[File:Mounted Moldavian police in a park.jpg|thumb|300px|Mounted police in Chișinău]] Visitors to Moldova for business or romance should be aware of the potential risk of scams, particularly if first contact was made on the Internet. See [https://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/financial_scams/financial_scams_3155.html International financial scams]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and [https://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_2088.html Russian Internet dating schemes]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. Corrupt police and border guards may try to extort bribe money but 'normal' crime rates are low. Locals are generally very friendly and will go to great lengths to provide hospitality to foreigners. You can expect a lengthy, and inevitably boozy, meal to be offered to you just in your honour. Conservative dress must be worn at religious sites. Shorts are forbidden and women must cover their heads inside monasteries and churches. While bribery and police corruption are still problems in Moldova, the situation is improving. It is still advised that tourists have the number of their embassy and the contact information of where they are staying. Foreigners are also required to have their passports on them at all times. There is however usually no one checking this in any normal setting. Alcohol consumption can also be a problem. Running into drunks especially at night is common. Most are friendly; they often come off as aggressive and will invade your personal space. This can be scary the first couple of times. Politely walking away normally works. People coming from a country where less alcohol is consumed can find themselves becoming the drunks. There are few natural hazards in the country. Landslides, mainly due to erosion from poor farming methods, sometimes occur. ==Stay healthy== Very few healthcare facilities are on par with Western standards, and accessibility may be hindered if you're not proficient in Romanian and/or Russian. In the event of a serious medical emergency, it is strongly recommended that you make every effort to seek medical care elsewhere. Neighbouring [[Romania]] may have better healthcare facilities than neighbouring [[Ukraine]]. The US Embassy in Moldova maintains a list of facilities that provide services in English. Refer to [https://md.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/doctors/] for more information. The heavy use of agricultural chemicals, including banned pesticides such as DDT, has contaminated soil and groundwater. If you are concerned, '''[[water]]''' for drinking, cooking and oral hygiene should be taken from a known safe source, as ordinary water treatment, including boiling, does not remove such chemical contamination. ==Respect== Tourists are likely to attract stares from the locals. Do not be alarmed or surprised; this doesn't indicate hostility, but rather, curiosity. This may cause some to treat you as a "walking wallet" or someone who is "wealthy". If you feel like you are about to be scammed by someone, simply ignore them or tell them to go away. Don't feel the need to be polite with scammers; nobody should put up with such behavior. === Women === Women are widely respected in Moldovan society, perhaps more so than any other country in [[Europe]]. There are many female mayors in Moldova and there are many women who have high positions in the government, including the president since 2020. As is the case throughout the former [[USSR]], women are traditionally treated with chivalry in Moldova. Women should not be surprised or alarmed if their male Moldovan friends take the initiative to pay the bills at a restaurant, open every door in front of them, and/or help them carry items or objects. Men should understand that these nuances will be expected by Moldovan women. In rural areas, it is a social taboo for women to smoke or drink alcohol. === Sensitive issues === ==== Politics ==== Moldovan political discourse tends to be polarizing. Moldovans are divided into three opposing camps − those who favor closer ties with the [[European Union]], those who favor closer ties with [[Russia]], and those who want Moldova to be committed to neutrality. You should be mindful of discussing the following political subjects: * '''The possibility of Romania and Moldova unifying''' is a sensitive issue in certain circles, especially among pro-Russian Moldovans. * '''Avoid bringing up the [[Transnistria]] conflict'''; it can be a very sensitive topic of discussion and many Moldovans are opposed to Transnistrian independence. * '''Moldova's relationship with [[Russia]]''' is a complex topic of conversation; while some in [[Gagauzia]] and [[Transnistria]] have favorable opinions of Russia, some pro-European Moldovans, especially supporters of the Sandu administration, do not have positive opinions of the Russian government. Some Moldovans feel that Russia hasn't done enough to acknowledge the role the Soviets played in causing the mass famine in the country during the mid-1940s. * '''The possibility of Moldova joining the [[European Union]]''' is a highly sensitive and polarizing issue. Avoid bringing it up in front of people in [[Gagauzia]] and [[Transnistria]] where pro-Russian sentiment is popular. * '''Identity''' can be a highly sensitive issue in Moldova; most identify as "Moldovan", while some identify as "Romanian" (common among pro-European and unionist Moldovans). This also applies to language as well; even though Romanian is the official language of Moldova, some refer to it as "Moldovan". The foolproof method is to ask someone what they identify as, if they're comfortable discussing it, that is. {{isPartOf|Balkans}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|47|28|zoom=7}} lo61iazs26jnxdssx11uaejbe86wc0c 0 22715 5091315 5086967 2025-07-11T10:27:06Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ -KRW and JPY, +CNY 5091315 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mongolian_landscape_banner.jpg|disambig=yes}} '''Mongolia''' ([[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]: Монгол улс, Traditional Mongolian: [[File:Monggol_ulus.svg|40px]]) has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Its vast and majestic emptiness is the country's enduring appeal: it brings the traveller into a close communion with nature and its nomadic inhabitants. It is one of the last places on earth where nomadic life lives on. The most memorable part of a trip to Mongolia will be its hospitable people. Mongolian culture has much in common with the cultures of [[Central Asia]]. Mongolia offers great opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing, fishing and photography. Traveling across this huge country is often an adventure in itself. ==Regions== The country can be categorised into five regions based on culture and geography. These regions are further divided into 21 provinces (aimags) and one provincial municipality. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Mongolia regions map.png | regionmaptext=Mongolia regions | regionmapsize=450px | region1name=[[Central Mongolia]] | region1color=#72b970 | region1description=Includes [[Ulaanbaatar]] and the popular tourist region of [[Arkhangai]]. | region2name=[[Eastern Mongolia]] | region2color=#c16161 | region2description=The birthplace of Genghis Khan and heart of the Mongolian steppe. | region3name=[[Gobi]] | region3color=#d0c56c | region3description=As the name implies, home to the immense Gobi Desert. | region4name=[[Northern Mongolia]] | region4color=#7db1de | region4description=Contains many of Mongolia's forests and the massive [[Lake Khövsgöl]]. | region5name=[[Western Mongolia]] | region5color=#a77da5 | region5description=Home of Lake Uvs Nuur and Tavan Bogd Mountains, is also the most diverse region with a dozen different tribes including the Kazakhs. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#72b970|title=[[Central Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207809,Q234713,Q276195,Q23430}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c16161|title=[[Eastern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207795,Q239040,Q244804}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d0c56c|title=[[Gobi]]|wikidata=Q276200,Q213272,Q211835,Q192945,Q236333,Q235579}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#7db1de|title=[[Northern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q209774,Q18827,Q244788,Q234710,Q234680}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a77da5|title=[[Western Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q191792,Q194098,Q192942,Q167764}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|46.46|103.71|zoom=4|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ulaanbaatar]]|url=|lat=47.92|long=106.92|wikidata=Q23430}} (''Ulan Bator'', [[Mongolian]]: '''Улаанбаатар''') – the capital city and starting point for most travel in this country. Half the population lives here. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Choibalsan]]|url=|lat=48.078333|long=114.535|wikidata=Q318245}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чойбалсан''') – large industrial city in the east *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Erdenet]]|url=|lat=49.027778|long=104.044444|wikidata=Q230628}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Эрдэнэт''') – Mongolia's second largest city and home to one of the world's biggest copper mines and a famous carpet factory *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hovd]]|url=|lat=48.004167|long=91.640556|wikidata=Q731256}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Ховд''') – a historic city at the crossroads of traditional Mongol and Kazakh culture *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Karakorum]]|url=|lat=47.210278|long=102.847778|wikidata=Q62677}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Хархорум''') – the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, established by Genghis' son Ogedei *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Mörön]]|url=|lat=49.635556|long=100.155556|wikidata=Q572951}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Мөрөн''') – a stopover for those visiting [[Hövsgöl]] province, it has several museums and a large collection of deer stones outside of town *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ölgii]]|url=|lat= 48.968333|long=89.968611|wikidata=Q297060}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Өлгий''') – a town in Mongolia's far western corner, the starting point for visiting Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Tsambagarav National Park and the eagle hunters who live *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Öndörkhaan|Chinggis]]|url=|lat=47.323333|long=110.661111}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чингис''') – near the birthplace (and possible burial site) of Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tsetserleg]]|url=|lat=47.476944|long=101.450278|wikidata=Q529834}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Цэцэрлэг''') – the most pleasant of Mongolia's provincial capitals sits in a beautiful forested valley in the Khangay mountains ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khogno Khan National Park]]|wikidata=Q93828284}} — a beautiful, and calm area boasting cultural sites such as Kharkhorin, the capital of the Mongolian Empire after Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]|lat=48.55|long=88.616667|wikidata=Q932232}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Алтай Таван богд байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — the tallest mountain and largest glacier in Mongolia, with Kazakh '''Eagle Hunters''' living in its shadow and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Petroglyphs]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Uvs Nuur Lake|lat=50.3|long=92.7}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Увс нуур''), [[Uvs|Uvs province]] — the largest lake in Mongolia and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Uvs Lake]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve]]|lat=47.541|long=108.343|wikidata=Q5618269}} — an ecotourism destination *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]|url=|lat=48.150204|long=107.576006|wikidata=Q1266074}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Горхи-Тэрэлж'') — a national park 70 km east of Ulaanbaatar *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Khövsgöl]]|lat=51.1|long=100.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Хөвсгөл нуур'') — a large freshwater alpine lake *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Darhad Valley|lat=51.166667|long=99.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Дархадын хотгор'') — home to the Reindeer people *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khustain Nuruu National Park]]|lat=47.765|long=105.878333|wikidata=Q1639106}} (Mongolian: ''Хустайн нуруу'') — Khustain Nuruu or Hustai National Park is home to the Takhi wild horses (also known as Przewalski's Horse). These are true wild horses which have never been domesticated. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park]]|lat=43.802729|long=101.589663|wikidata=Q1533528}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Говь гурван сайхан байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — Khongor Sand dunes, Yol Canyon, Bayanzag-Red Flaming Cliffs, and Khermen Tsav ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMongolia.png}} {{quote|Everybody needs to go to Mongolia just to see what it is to be a human being again.|author=Milla Jovovich, American actress.}} Mongolia is one of the world's largest landlocked countries, second only to [[Kazakhstan]] and is surrounded by two of the world's largest countries: [[China]] and [[Russia]]. It was the center of the [[Mongol Empire]], the largest contiguous empire in world history. With only 1.7 people per square kilometre, Mongolia has the lowest population density of any independent country. The country is nicknamed the "Land of Blue Skies," and with good reason. There are said to be about 250 sunny days throughout each year. The weather is bitterly cold during the winter, dropping down to -40°C in some parts. With many types of terrain — from desert to verdant mountains — the weather during the summer varies from region to region, but is generally hot. Outside of the Gobi desert, this time of year is marked with much rain in some areas, and it can become quite cool at night. For several letters, the ISO&nbsp;9 standard '''transliteration''' of Cyrillic is not widely used and there is no consensus either in Mongolia nor in Wikivoyage. Particularly, the same Cyrillic letter "х" is transliterated "h" or "kh", the letter "ө" is transliterated "ô", "ö", "o" or "u", but Latin "o" is also the transliteration of the Cyrillic "о", and Latin "u" is also the transliteration of Cyrillic "у" and "ү" (the latter should be transliterated "ù" according to ISO&nbsp;9, but this is rarely done). So, if you can't find a name as you wrote it, try other spellings. ''Mongolia'' may have geopolitical, cultural and geographical meanings. Modern-day Mongolia consists of what was historically ''Outer Mongolia'' (so-called when it was part of China). [[Inner Mongolia]] is politically separate and remains a province of China, sharing a border and a common cultural heritage with modern-day Mongolia. ===History=== {{see also|Mongol Empire|Imperial China}} [[File:USMC-100903-M-1294R-001.jpg|thumb|300px|Statue of Chinggis Khan outside the capital]] The recorded history of ancient Mongolia dates to the third century BC when the Xiongnu came to power among many other nomadic tribes. Due to illiteracy and their nomadic lifestyle, little was recorded by the Xiongnu of themselves; they first appear in recorded Chinese history as "barbarians" against whom the walls were built. Those walls later became known as the [[Great Wall of China]]. The Xiongnu were eventually defeated by China's Han Dynasty in AD 89. Xiongnu history is controversial. Different historians attribute them to several quite different ethnic groups. Some claim that Xiongnu is cognate to Hun Nu or even that these are basically the same group known as Huns centuries later in Europe, but both claims are contested. There have been several empires in Mongolia after the Xiongnu. The first strong state to emerge was the First Turkic Khaganate in AD 552 with its capital at Ötüken (modern-day [[Ordu-Baliq]]). However, due to political infighting, this empire fragmented into the Eastern Turkic Khaganate with its capital at Ötüken, and the Western Turkic Khaganate with its capital at [[Suyab]] (near [[Bishkek]] in modern-day [[Kyrgyzstan]]), in AD 603. Both of these states were eventually defeated by China's Tang Dynasty; the Eastern Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 630, while the Western Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 657. The next strong empire to emerge was the Uyghur Khaganate, with its capital Har Bulgas (Khar Bulgas or Xar Bulgas) near Har Horin. The Khitans who controlled northern China around AD 1000 as the Liao Dynasty had an administrative centre (Har Bukh) 120&nbsp;km to the northeast. The Turkish government has been promoting some Turkish Empire monuments and there is a museum full of artifacts at the Bilge Khaan site. The struggle for mere existence and power over other tribes continued until the time of Genghis Khan. Chinggis Khan, as he is known in Mongolia, born with the name Temüjin, came to power and united the warring tribes under the Great Mongol Empire in 1206. He was proclaimed Genghis Khan (Chingis Haan), meaning ruler of all Mongol tribes, and to this day, Mongolians consider him to be the father of their nation. The Mongol Empire was extended all the way to what is now [[Poland]] and [[Hungary]] in [[Europe]] under Genghis Khan, and they also conquered the Jurchen Jin Dynasty that then ruled northern China. His grandson, Kublai Khan, subsequently defeated the Chinese Song Dynasty and completed the conquest of China, establishing the Yuan Dynasty. [[Marco Polo]] travelled through much of the Mongol Empire in Kublai Khan's time. The Mongols were, however, driven back to the steppes by the Chinese Ming Dynasty under Emperor Hongwu. They were later progressively conquered by the Manchu Qing Dynasty in the 17th century, and played an important role in the Manchu conquest of China. An independent Mongol nation only reemerged in 1924. It was not recognised by China until 1945, as the Chinese were forced to grant independence to Outer Mongolia by the Soviet Union, in exchange for Soviet assistance in fighting the Japanese invasion. Thus, the historic region of Mongolia was split into two, with Outer Mongolia becoming the independent nation of Mongolia, while [[Inner Mongolia]] remained a province of China. Since that time, Mongolia has had a close relationship with the Soviet Union (and [[Russia]] after the breakup of the Soviet Union), with Russian becoming the most widely-spoken foreign language in Mongolia. Mongolia even replaced its traditional script with the Cyrillic alphabet. (The traditional script, however, continues to be used by ethnic Mongols in China.) Inner Mongolia was the more populated area before the partition, and the number of ethnic Mongols living in China still outnumbers the population of Mongolia. Following independence, the Soviet Union installed a communist government in Mongolia. Following the fall of communism in Europe, Mongolia enacted democratic reforms, which resulted in the first democratic multiparty elections in 1990. The democratic reforms culminated with the first peaceful transfer of power in 1996, when the incumbent Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party lost the elections, and handed power to the victorious Democratic Union. Mongolia's vast collection of natural resources such as gold, copper, and coal can very easily make it one of the wealthiest countries on the planet, but due to its landlocked geography, dependence on the goodwill of [[China]] and Russia, governmental and bureaucratic inefficiencies, Mongolia remains one of the least developed countries in Asia. ''The Secret History of the Mongols'' is one of the great recordings of Mongolian history. Every Mongolian reads the book in the modern Mongolian language. This is one of the oldest books in the Mongolian language. There are vivid similarities with the Bible in literary style, wording and story-telling. It is speculated that the author could have been a Christian or at least was very knowledgeable about the Bible. According to Hugh Kemp, Qadag is the most likely candidate for authorship of ''Secret History of the Mongols''. He writes about the history of ancient Mongolia and connects the modern reality with the ancient world. Even though the book is about the history of Christianity in Mongolia, it paints a view of ancient Mongolia from the height of 21st century. The ''History of Mongolia'' by B. Baabar is a good source for the modern history of Mongolia. [[On the trail of Marco Polo]] covers some travel through the Mongol Empire in the time of Genghis' grandson, Kublai Khan. ===People=== Mongolia is more than twice as big as Texas and nearly the same size as Alaska. Its area is 1.6 million km² (603,000 square miles), four times the size of Japan and larger than Spain, France and Germany combined. This makes Mongolia the sixth-largest country in Asia and 19th in the world, but the population is only 3.4 million (as of 2020), which makes Mongolia one of the least densely populated areas in Asia. Considering that half of the population lives in the capital city of Ulan Bator or Ulaanbaatar ("UB") that leaves lots of room for you to travel in the outback. Of course, the Gobi is even less dense. Almost another 40% of the population are scattered all over Mongolia with their 56 million head of sheep, goats, cattle, horses and camels. There are 21 provinces, called ''aimag''. Each ''aimag'' has a central city or town and about 15-22 sub-provinces called ''soum'', so you will know which ''aimag'' and which soum you are in. 70% of Mongolia is under the age of 35. The gender ratio is close to 1:1. It is home to various ethnic groups: 84% Khalkha Mongols, 6% Kazakhs and 10% other groups. More than 50% will say they are Buddhists, which is very much mixed with Shamanism, close to 10% will claim to be Christians of all forms and 4% follow Islam, the remainder will say that they are atheists. Mongolian Buddhism is part of the Vajrayana school, which is also dominant in [[Tibet]] and [[Bhutan]]. Almost all the Kazakhs and Muslims live in [[Bayan-Ölgii|Bayan-Ölgii province]]. === Economy === Mongolia possesses abundant deposits of copper, coal, tin, tungsten, molybdenum, and gold. The cashmere industry is also an important industry; Mongolia and its neighbour, China, are responsible for 85% of the world's cashmere supply. Although that sounds impressive, Mongolia is a relatively poor and undeveloped country. With an economy that depends heavily on the mining sector and on the goodwill of its two large neighbours, the country's economy is highly vulnerable to external shocks. When the Soviet Union disintegrated in 1991, the Mongolian economy lost a third of its GDP overnight, plunging the country into a state of disarray. ===Holidays and festivals=== [[Image:Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Naadam festival celebrations]] The annual '''Naadam festival''' (11–13 July) is the biggest day in many Mongols' calendars. It is when Mongolia celebrates its "three manly sports": wrestling, horse racing, and archery by either watching the festivities in Ulaanbaatar or by following them on television or radio. Many other smaller Naadam festivals are also held in different aimags (provinces) throughout July, and these more intimate festivals may let you get much closer to the action. The Naadam celebrations are said to have started with the rise of the Great Mongolian Empire. Chinggis (a.k.a. Genghis) Khan used them to keep his warriors strictly fit. After the fall of the empire, the contests were held during religious festivals, and since the communist revolution it was celebrated on its anniversary. Legend has it that a woman once dressed like man and won the wrestling competition. That is why the long-sleeved wrestling costumes, called "zodog", have open chests - to show that every participant is male. Wrestlers wear short trunks, "shuudag", and Mongolian boots, "gutal". The yellow stripes on tales of wrestlers' hats will indicate the number of times the wrestler became a champion in Naadam. {{CNYdates}} Only Naadam gives official titles to the wrestlers. Mongolian wrestling tournaments have 9 or 10 rounds depending on the number of 512 or 1024 wrestlers registered for the competition that year. If the wrestler wins 5 rounds, he will be awarded title "Nachin" (bird), 6 rounds - Hartsaga (hawk), 7 rounds - Zaan (elephant), 8 rounds - Garuda (Eagle), 9 rounds - Arslan (lion) and 10 - Avarga (Titan). In 2006, Zaan (Elephant) Sumyabazar won 9 rounds that made him Garuda but that year 1024 wrestlers had 10 rounds which he won all. This entitled him to Avarga. Or Arslan (Lion) must win 2 in a row to become Avarga (Titan). The titles are for life. If Avarga (Titan) keeps winning at Naadam more and more attributes will be added to his title. There are no weight categories in Mongolian Wrestling tournaments but there is a time limit of 30 minutes, if the wrestlers can not overthrow each other, referees use lots for better position which often settles the match. One who falls or whose body touches the ground loses the match. Mongolian wrestling matches are attended by seconds whose role is to assist their wrestlers in all matters and to encourage them to win by spanking on their butts. They also sing praise songs and titles to the leading wrestlers of both wings, west and east, after 5 and 7 rounds. The referees monitor the rules but the people and the fans are the final judges. They will speak and spread the word of mouth about who is who till the next year. ====Smaller festivals==== *'''Tsagaan Sar''' (White moon) - starts on the Lunar New Year and is a 3-day public holiday. Its not big with tourists for the obvious reason of being during the coldest month of the year. A time when families reunite and have a large meal of sheep's tail, mutton, rice with curds, dairy products, and buuz. It is also typical to drink airag and exchange gifts. *'''Golden Eagle Festival''' in [[Ölgii]] on October 5th and 6th is the world's largest gathering of eagle hunters. The event typically has 60 to 70 Kazakh eagle hunters displaying their skills. The events include having their golden eagles fly to them on command and catching a fox fur being pulled by a horse from a perch on a nearby mountain. The event also features traditional Kazakh games including Kokpar (tug-of-war over a goat carcass while on horseback), Tiyn Teru (a timed race to pick up a coin on the ground while on horseback), and Kyz Kuar ("girl chase" a race between a man and woman where the woman whips the man while he tries to hold on). The festival also has a traditional Kazakh concert, camel race, and displays of Kazakh art. A smaller eagle festival is held on Sept 22nd in the nearby village of Sagsai. *'''Nauryz''' also in [[Ölgii]] is the traditional new year's celebration of Kazakhs held on 22 March. There is a parade, concert, and horse races during the several days of celebrating. Though most of the celebration involves visiting friends and relatives to eat Nauryz Koje (soup) and boiled mutton and horse meat. *'''Ice Festival''' is held on the frozen surface of Lake Hövsgöl outside of [[Mörön]] each February. The 2-day festival includes wrestling, reindeer sleighs and riding, ice skating, shaman rituals, folk concert, and cultural events of the Tsagaan reindeer people. You should be warned; It is ''very cold'' in Northern Mongolia in February. *'''Yak Festival''' on July 23rd in between [[Karakorum]] and [[Arvayheer]]. The festival celebrates this large mammal that thrives in the cold Mongolian winters with a full day of yak races, a rodeo, and other competitions. There is a market, tourist gers, and a whole temporary village set up in the middle of the steppe. *'''Camel Festival''' in South Gobi province: A local non-governmental organization that aims to protect and preserve the Bactrian camel population organizes "The Thousand Camel Festival" in Bulgan County, South Gobi Province. The festival includes two types of camel races, camel-polo, and some other competitions related to camel breeders' cultural heritage such as training of untamed camels, making ropes from camel wool and loading. There is also a folk concert by school children from the countryside. The festival is held annually March 6–7 for 2 days. ====Public holidays==== While most business still takes place on most holidays, Tsagaan Sar and Naadam tend to last much longer than the official 3 days. Work may stop for weeks in the countryside for Tsagaan Sar. Also, election days are always public holidays and dry days. Alcohol is not sold on election days or the 1st of each month nationwide. * New Years – January 1 * Tsagaan Sar – January/February (3 days, depends on Lunar New Year) * International Women's Day – March 8 * Soldiers' Day – March 18 (not a day off, just lots of parades) * Mothers' and Children's' Day – June 1 * Naadam Festival – July 11–13 * Genghis Khan's Birthday – November 14 * Independence Day – November 26 (no longer a day off, replaced by Genghis Khan's Birthday) '''Working hours''' are almost always posted in 24 hours. Shops are usually open 10:00 to 21:00 or 22:00, and sometimes closed or shortened hours on Sunday or Monday. Banks usually open 08:00 or 09:00 to 17:00, though often closed for an hour for lunch. However, posted times are not always reliable, especially in the countryside. Expect shops to open at maybe 10:15 or 10:30 more often than not. Restaurants typically close around 22:00, while bars stay open until midnight or later. There are a few fast food restaurants in the capital that stay open until 03:00, but no shops open past midnight. ===Climate=== [[File:Khövsgöl Aimag12.JPG|thumb|Steppe in [[Hovsgol]] — if you want to experience desolate landscapes, Mongolia has plenty of them.]] The ideal Mongolia travel season starts in May and peaks in July, during the Naadam holiday, and in August when the weather is most favourable for travelling. This is the best time if you like the culture and can bear the crowds of other tourists. It is not a good time to get away from your busy lifestyle because of the traffic, busy schedules, waiting in lines, etc. September is also a very good time to visit, and October is not too late to travel to Mongolia. It is still warm during the days but a bit chilly during the nights. In the autumn, Mongolia is not very crowded, and this is time for late-comers and last-minute, unplanned trips. You will get to sightsee, enjoy the culture, and taste mare's milk, a bitter and at first somewhat unpleasant drink, throughout the country. For visitors not afraid of cold or fermented mare's milk, travelling to Mongolia from November till the Lunar New Year remains an option. Winter tourism is a developing area of the Mongolian tourism industry. The most rewarding experience will be visiting the nomads, as this is the time when you will experience their culture first-hand during "Tsagaan Sar" or the traditional (Lunar) New Year celebration. Cultural activities including singing, dancing, wrestling, and winter horse racing are available to tourists. Mongolia is known to have 250-260 sunny days throughout the year, so you will need good [[Sunburn and sun protection|UV protection]]. During winter, protect your eyes, and during summer, protect your skin. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.mongolia.travel/ Mongolia Travel] website ==Talk== {{see also|Mongolian phrasebook|Russian phrasebook}} The official language of Mongolia is '''[[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]'''. Mongolian in Mongolia is written using the '''Cyrillic alphabet''', which was introduced around the 1940s. Mongolian Cyrillic uses all the letters used in the [[Russian]] alphabet and has two extra letters: '''Ө''' and '''Ү'''. Very few people know how to read and write Mongolian using the '''traditional Mongolian script''' (written from top to bottom, and still widely used by ethnic Mongols in China), although since the 1990s, it has been gradually regaining popularity. Mongolian belongs to the Mongolic family of languages, which also includes some minority languages of Russia such as Buryat and Kalmyk, and is not known to be related to any other language family. That being said, Mongolian shares a decent amount of words and grammar structures with the Turkic languages (Turkish, Uzbek, Kazakh, etc.) due to historical proximity, so speakers of a Turkic language will have a somewhat easier time navigating Mongolian. Loanwords from languages such as Sanskrit, [[Russian]], English, and [[Persian]] are common and are used in everyday conversations. Mongolian is widely regarded as a very difficult language for an English-speaker to learn. It is an agglutinative language that makes extensive use of suffixing, makes use of nine grammatical cases, and has a number of pronunciation rules and differences. Don't let this intimidate you, though; Mongolians will appreciate your efforts to speak their language, even if your knowledge of it is rudimentary. If you speak Japanese, Korean, Manchu or a Turkic language, some aspects of Mongolian grammar will be familiar to you. '''[[Kazakh phrasebook|Kazakh]]''' is spoken in the westernmost province of the country and by the small but growing population of ethnic Kazakhs living in Ulaanbaatar. Due to Mongolia's longstanding alliance with the [[Soviet Union]] (and [[Russia]] since the fall of the Soviet Union), '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' is spoken by many older Mongolians, although proficiency drops drastically outside Ulaanbaatar. '''English''' is the most popular foreign language among younger Mongolians, and is widely taught in schools. Outside the capital, little of it is spoken. ==Get in== Historically, Mongolia had a reputation for being a very difficult country to visit. Until the mid-1990s, you had to solicit an invitation letter from someone living in Mongolia to visit Mongolia. Lately, the visa rules have been relaxed and most people can enter the country without a visa. The Mongolian government declared the 2023-2024 tourist season the "Year of Mongolia", relaxing visa requirements for many countries, including all major Western nations. Whether this will become a permanent change is yet to be seen. ===Entry requirements=== [[File:New visa policy of Mongolia 2023.png|thumb|375px|Visa policy of Mongolia {{legend|#ed1c24|Mongolia}} {{legend|#22b14c|Visa-free (90 days)}} {{legend|#79d343|Visa-free (30 days)}} {{legend|#b5e61d|Visa-free (21 days)}} {{legend|#ffb583|Visa-free (14 days)}} {{legend|#ffd000|Visa on arrival (30 days)}} {{legend|#a1d4b0|eVisa (30 days)}} {{legend|#ababab|Visa required in advance}}]] Citizens of [https://en.consul.mn/visa/c/83 the following countries/territories]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} can enter Mongolia '''visa-free''': *'''For up to 90 days:''' [[Argentina]], [[Belarus]], [[Brazil]], [[Chile]], [[Ecuador]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Kyrgyzstan]], [[Macau]], [[Peru]], [[Serbia]], [[South Korea]], [[Ukraine]] (with an "official invitation") and [[United States]] *'''For up to 30 days:''' Citizens of [[Canada]], [[Germany]], [[Israel]], [[Japan]], [[Laos]], [[Malaysia]], [[Russia]], [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], [[Turkey]], [[Uruguay]], and [[Uzbekistan]], as well as the following for tourism until the end of 2025: [[European Union]] member states, [[Australia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Monaco]], [[New Zealand]], [[Norway]], [[Switzerland]], and [[United Kingdom]] *'''For up to 21 days:''' [[Philippines]] *'''For up to 14 days:''' [[Hong Kong]] Everyone else, however, must apply for a visa. Obtaining a visa — by default, the Mongolian authorities issue '''thirty-day visas''' to all tourists — is relatively straightforward and effortless. ==== Applying for a Mongolian visa ==== Although requirements vary from diplomatic post to diplomatic post, you are normally asked to submit the following to obtain a Mongolian visa: * A visa application form * A passport-sized photo * A passport with a validity of more than six months * A copy of your travel itinerary * A copy of your hotel reservation * A copy of your bank statement * A letter of invitation (if you intend to stay longer than 30 days in Mongolia) * A letter of approval from the government (only required if you plan to study, work, or live in Mongolia) Also, it is possible to acquire an expedited visa in a matter of hours at the Mongolian consulate in Erlian, though there is a steep US$50 fee for this service. A similar service is available in the Mongolian consulate in the Russian city of [[Irkutsk]]. The [http://www.embassyofmongolia.co.uk/ Embassy of Mongolia in the UK website] is useful for updates, with the [http://embassyofmongolia.co.uk/?p=186&lang=en visa page]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offering information on visa applications at the embassy. [http://beijing.mfa.gov.mn/?lang=en The Embassy of Mongolia in China website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} hosts the form you will need to apply for your Mongolian visa in China, although the consulate does have them. To stay more than 30 days, you have to register at the Mongolia Immigration. ===By plane=== [[image:MIAT Boeing 737-800 at ULN.jpg|thumb|MIAT plane in Ulaanbaatar]] Thanks to a booming mining sector, '''Chinggis Khaan International Airport''' ({{IATA|UBN}}) in [[Ulaanbaatar]] is now connected to some major airport hubs in eastern Asia and Istanbul and Frankfurt. Flag carrier [http://www.miat.com/ MIAT Mongolian Airlines]{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operates daily flights (during some peak season - twice a day) from [[Beijing]] and [[Seoul]], twice a week flights from [[Hong Kong]], [[Moscow]] and [[Tokyo]] (during some peak season - from Narita). During peak summer season it increases flight frequencies and operates flights from [[Busan]] and [[Osaka]]. There are branch offices in Berlin, Moscow, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo and Beijing. Mongolia-based [http://www.hunnuair.com/ Hunnu Air] flies 3 times a week from [[Bangkok]] and 5 flights a week from Hong Kong. There are almost daily flights from Seoul on Korean Air as well as other flights through Beijing, and 3 flights a week to [[Istanbul]]. It is also possible to fly to Ulaanbaatar through Tokyo's Narita Airport. ===By train=== [[image:Trans Mongolian Train 01.jpg|thumb|Trans-Mongolian train]] {{main|Trans-Siberian Railway}} The '''Trans-Mongolian Line''' of the legendary [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] links [[Ulaanbaatar]] with [[Moscow]], [[Russia]] and [[Beijing]], [[China]]. The Mongolian line branches from the main Trans-Siberian at [[Ulan-Ude]], so you'll need to break your journey there if coming from points east like [[Vladivostok]]. There is a small water boiler at the end of each train car which dispenses free hot water, so it's a good idea to stock up on instant noodles and tea for the trip. Also, don't expect to encounter any English-speaking staff on the train or in the stations. ====From Russia==== The Trans-Siberian train crosses the Russia/Mongolia border at the town of [[Naushki]], Russia. Trains start from [[Moscow]] or [[Irkutsk]] going to either Ulaanbaatar or Beijing, with several stops on both sides of the border. Between Irkutsk and the border are [[Ulan-Ude]], Naushki, Dozornoe, and Khoit. Between the Russian border and Ulaanbaatar are [[Sühbaatar]], [[Darkhan (city)|Darkhan]], and Zuunkharaa, with possible stops in [[Erdenet]] and Salkhit. ====From China==== [[image:WheelChanging.jpg|thumb|Changing wheels at the Chinese border]] Second class (hard sleeper) costs about US$200 (2011) from [[Beijing]] to [[Ulaanbaatar]], crossing the border at [[Erlian]]/[[Zamiin-Üüd]]. There are two trains a week and the ride takes almost 30 hours, including a mandatory stop of 3-4 hours at Erlian while the train bogies are switched between Russian broad gauge and Chinese standard gauge. You will have to take all your belongings and leave the train for this operation, and will be confined to the waiting area at Erlian station, even if you're inbound to China and have already passed through immigration. You can, however, ask staff for a free ticket that will let you step outside to raid the nearby shops and restaurants for supplies. =====Beijing to the border===== If the [[Beijing]] - [[Ulaanbaatar]] train is sold out, as seems to be common, or you need a more frequent option, you can make your way from Beijing to the border at [[Erlian]] by '''local train''' as described below, and then on to Ulaanbaatar by bus and train. As of March 2011, there are morning flights from Beijing to Erlian out of Capital Airport Terminal 1 costing only ¥160, which is cheaper than the bus. Trains run daily from Beijing to [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]] or [[Hohhot]]. You can change there for a train to the border town of [[Erlian]] near the Mongolian-Chinese border. The K89 leaves Beijing in the morning and arrives at Jining in the evening. Jining has many hotels near the train station and has karaoke bars to keep you entertained while you wait. From Jining to Erlian there is a slow train that leaves in the morning, passes the Great Wall multiple times, and arrives in the early evening. This will take a night longer than getting the sleeper bus as described in "By bus". =====Crossing the border===== Be wary of scams at the border where people in uniform will attempt to sell you "required travel insurance." There is no such thing and you can safely ignore them. You should then cross the border from [[Erlian]] in China to [[Zamiin-Uud]] in Mongolia as described in [[Erlian#To and from Mongolia|Erlian to and from Mongolia]]. Once you have crossed the border, you will need to get from Zamiin-Uud to Ulaanbaatar as described in [[Zamiin-Uud#Get in|Zamiin-Uud get in]]. ===By car=== Many adventurous people drive to Mongolia, usually starting somewhere in Europe. [http://www.theadventurists.com/the-adventures/mongol-rally The Mongol Rally] and [http://mongolia.charityrallies.org/ Mongol Charity Rally]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} sponsor many of them. Driving to Mongolia can be extremely challenging in many respects. Not only are there virtually no roads in the western half of Mongolia, but vehicle registration, import fees and paperwork, visas and everything have to be ready for every country along the way. For those who still wish to make the journey by car, there are 4 land border crossings with Russia and 3 with China. Though it is much more expensive and difficult to drive through, into, or out of China in your own car. :*See '''[[Driving in China]]''' for issues for driving to Mongolia from China. ====From Russia==== The main border is in Altanbulag-Kyakhta ([[Sühbaatar]]), nearest to the capital, is open 24 hours a day. In the far west is the Tsagaannuur-Tashanta crossing in [[Bayan-Olgii]], is open Monday to Saturday 09:00-18:00 and is the most popular with adventure drivers. Also in the west is Borshoo-Khandgait crossing between [[Uvs]] and [[Tuva| Tuva Republic]], is open Monday to Friday 09:00-18:00. In the east, Ereentsav-Solovyovsk crossing near [[Choibalsan]] is open daily 09:00-18:00. ===By bus=== There is a paved road connecting Ulaanbaatar to the Chinese border, and one between UB and Russia. ====From Russia==== *Those interested in saving money can book one-way elektrichka (regional train) tickets from Irkutsk or Ulan Ude to Naushki. In Naushki, one can spend the night in the train resting rooms (komnati otdikha) for US$0.50 per hour. From there, it is possible to take a marshrutka to the land border crossing town of [[Kyakhta]], Russia. Walking across the border is prohibited, but travellers have no problems arranging for Mongolia-bound cars to take them across the border, for either a small fee or free. Upon crossing into Mongolia it is relatively easy to hitchhike, taxi, or bus to [[Sühbaatar]] or UB, as all southbound traffic is headed towards those cities. *From the west, from Russia, it is possible to cross at the land border in Tsagaannuur, Bayan-Olgii. There are daily petrol and wheat-carrying Russian Kamaz trucks headed to Olgii and it is possible to hitchhike to Tsagaannuur or even [[Olgii]]. Regular buses and marshrutkas also operate from the border, though service is unpredictable due to the lack of a schedule. There is also a bus every 10 days between either [[Astana]] or [[Almaty]], [[Kazakhstan]] and Olgii. ====From China==== * Liuliqiao long-distance bus station (六里桥客运主枢纽 or lìu lǐ qiáo kè yùn zhǔ shū nǐu), phone +86 10 8383–1716, address: A1, Liuliqiao Nan Li, Fengtai District. Departure at 16:30. These are supposed to run daily, but may not. You can phone at 10:00 on the morning of departure to see if the bus is running and to reserve a place. * Muxiyuan long-distance bus station (木樨园才华长途汽车站), phone +86 10 6726–7149, location: go to Liujiayao Metro Station and get a cab. Departs at 17:00. * Lizeqiao long-distance bus station (丽泽桥长途汽车站), phone (丽泽桥长途汽车站) Address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东 +86 10 6340–3408, address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东. Location is difficult to get to. Departs at 17:00. From [[Hohhot]] by bus costs 88 Chinese yuan and takes 6-7 hr. There are several daily buses. Once in Erlian, follow the '''Crossing the border''' and '''From the border to Ulaanbaatar''' steps above. Should you be travelling at a busy time (e.g., around Naadam on the 11th and 12th July) and want to be sure of getting tickets for the last leg of the trip in Mongolia, you could take one of the packages from the guesthouses in Beijing. These cost around 570 yuan (July 2009) and include a taxi to the coach station in Beijing, Beijing to [[Erlian]] by sleeper coach, a bed in the hotel in the bus station for a few hours, a bus from Erlian to [[Zamiin-Üüd]] across the border, then soft sleeper overnight from Zamiin-Üüd to [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Purchased separately, the tickets cost about 360 yuan. The Saga guesthouse in Beijing sells these, and although they insist till they're blue in the face that the train is a hard sleeper, it's actually a soft sleeper! ===By bicycle=== At Zamiin-Uud you have to put your bicycle in a car. You are not allowed to cycle through the 3-km-wide border area. Prepare to bargain. They will start at US$100 and more. You should be able to get them down to US$20 or less. If you are lucky and get up early, you might catch a truck. They will take you for free. Usually you have better chances with Mongol drivers, if you want to cross into Mongolia. At Altanbulag you also have to put the bicycle in a car, but prices are reasonable and usually fixed. Enjoy watching your driver smuggle goods in or out of Mongolia. ===By thumb or foot=== The road passes through the border town of [[Zamiin-Üüd]] and continues to Ulaanbaatar. Hitchhiking in Mongolia is not easy and a little bit of money for the driver is expected. There is an average of one car every hour heading into the desert. Rules at the border require that you ride a bus or car across the border, not walk across. However, they do not care how you get there or where you go afterwards. ==Get around== If you plan to travel around the countryside without a guide, take a [[GPS]] and some maps. The "Mongolia Road Atlas" is available in many book shops, it has over 60 pages and covers the whole country: there is a Latin-character version and Cyrillic-character version, in the countryside most people won't understand the Latin version. More detailed maps are available at the Mongolian Government Map Store. These maps are 1:500,000. Also, some other special-purpose maps and a good map of downtown Ulaanbaatar. The map store is on Ih Toiruu St. Go west from the State Department Store on the main street, called Peace, Peace and Friendship, or Ekhtavan Ave., two blocks to the large intersection with traffic lights, turn right (north) and the map store is about halfway along the block. There is an Elba electronic appliance store set back from the street, a yellow and blue building, the next building is a 4-story, Russian-style office building, the map store entrance is on the west side, toward the south end of the building. It lines up with the north wall of the Elba building. Whichever the method of long-distance travel, keep in mind that everything in Mongolia has a tendency to break down. Don't be shocked if part of the suspension breaks and the driver jerry-rigs a carved wooden block in the place of a mount. For more serious breakdowns, it can easily take an entire day or longer for somebody to come along and help, so leave plenty of slack in itineraries. Finally, Mongolians are rather notorious for being late. A bus that is scheduled to leave at 08:00 will probably not be out of the city until almost 11:00. The entirety of the country is public property, and - especially in the winter - drivers will simply peel off the paved roads and chart their own paths to get to a certain destination. Often, many of the destinations are not near any permanent roads, requiring this off-roading to get to them. If driving off-road, take extra care to ensure that you have the proper supplies and knowledge to survive in the event your vehicle breaks down or gets stuck. It is also highly recommended to have a guide who knows the area and/or a strong knowledge of Mongolian with which you can converse with local nomads to inquire where exactly your destination is and how to get to it. ===By plane=== [[image:AeroMongoliaFokker50.jpg|thumb|An AeroMongolia plane]] The easiest way to travel long distance is via one of the domestic airlines: AeroMongolia or Hunnu Air. Almost all flights are between Ulaanbaatar and the Aimag centers. Except for mines in the south Govi and [[Choibalsan]], which use Boeing 737s, most flights use turboprop regional planes. AeroMongolia uses a two-tier price structure, charging foreigners significantly more than locals, while Hunnu has only one price. Other than price, there is little difference between the airlines. Air travel agents, guest houses and hotels can help you to obtain domestic air tickets in Mongolia. *{{listing | name=AeroMongolia | url=http://aeromongolia.mn/ | email=reservation@aeromongolia.mn | address= | lat= | long= | directions=1st floor, Monnis tower, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 11 330373 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-18:00; Sa 10:00-18:00 | price= | content= It is generally cheaper, but uses older planes and charges foreigners double the local rate. }} *{{listing | name=Hunnu Air | url=http://hunnuair.com/ | email=info@hunnuair.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= Chinggis avenue 10-1, Sukhbaatar district, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 7000 1111 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Formerly Mongolian Airlines. }} ===By train=== There is only one railway company in Mongolia, owned by the Russian and Mongolian governments, "Mongolian Railway". It is probably the best way to experience something of the communist time, even if it has evolved a bit since then. Ulaanbaatar railway agents more often consider the passenger as a potential rulebreaker than as a client. The railway network is poor, consisting mainly of the Irkutsk-Ulaanbaatar-Beijing Trans-Mongolian way with a few extensions. Trains are extremely slow. They usually leave on time, and arrive on time or less than 20 minutes late. Intercity bus routes on the roughly parallel paved roads will get you there much faster. The local trains stop at many small stations in the countryside. For example, there is the small town of Batsumber, located about 34 km north of Ulaanbaatar (as the crow flies), longer on the train. Take your camping gear and hike to the mountains about 10 km east of the town. There are two streams flowing west out of the mountains, hike and camp along the streams. There is a small restaurant, and food shops in the town. ====Train tickets==== It's possible to pay for train tickets by credit card. For online booking of train tickets, go to the [https://eticket.ubtz.mn/ official website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (an English version is available, but not all the information is translated). The website is not the most user-friendly, but fortunately [http://wandersimply.com/how-to-buy-mongolian-train-tickets-online/ Wander Simply] has a good write-up on how to navigate the site and buy tickets. Alternatively, contact the company [http://www.traintomongolia.com Train to Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to buy tickets at a commission. You pay an extra fee if you book in advance, and also an extra fee if you buy it in the train, which is the only possibility left if there are less than 10 minutes left before the train departure. Your passport is required to buy a ticket, but you can buy several people's tickets with one passport. There are 3 classes: "coupé", "sleeping", and "public" (translated into English by "economic" by the company). "Coupé" is the only one with doors. In "public" it's possible to have to spend the night sitting and even with little space on crowded days. The tickets are numbered, but, when the seats are exhausted, the company overbooks public seats with tickets numbered "0", at the same price. The "public" seats tickets are much cheaper (and much slower) than the coach, minivan and taxi competitors. In a coupé at night, you'll be charged for compulsory additional bed sheets inside the train. ====Inside a train==== You will be proposed drinks and Mongolian food inside the train, both by official sellers of the company and, at the big stations with long stops, by private people entering the train for that purpose. There are many conductors. Don't expect them to speak anything other than Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. Theft is rare on Mongolian trains, but keeping an eye on your belongings is generally a good idea. There are police on every train. On a long trip, your ticket will be checked repeatedly, and you'll be awakened throughout the night for that. However, nobody will wake you if you have to get off during the trip, but if you get off at the terminus, you'll be awakened, even more than one hour before arrival, depending on the agent. The '''train toilets''' close 30 minutes before the terminus, and sometimes even before that. ===By bus=== [[File:Juulchin Tourism Corp 12.JPG|thumb|Tourist bus in the [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]]] Travelling by local bus is also an option, though these buses tend to only connect the provincial capital with UB, and it is quite difficult to find any public transportation linking one provincial capital with another. Lately the bus situation has improved. Most cities and towns are referred to in two ways, their name or the name of the Aimag (province) or Soum (county), e.g. Dornod or Dornod Aimag or Choibalsan (the actual city name). Most buses have their destination on a card in the front window. If you have either name written down in Mongolian Cyrillic, show it to the drivers or helpers and they will get you on the right bus. There are two types of buses, microvans and large buses (some large buses are old Russian types and some are modern western types), depending on the road. The large buses run on schedule, but the micro-buses are much more lax. In Ulaanbaatar, there are two bus stations, one on the west near the Dragon Shopping Center and one on the East near the Botanical Gardens. Both stations are on Peace Avenue on opposite sides of the city. Multiple buses run between them. Get local to write directions. For the large buses buy your tickets the day before. In the Aimag centres, there will be service to Ulaanbaatar and to local soums (small county seats) and usually the next Aimag center. However, all locations may not be available at one location. Ask for help from the locals. For example, in Ondorkhaan, the capital of Khentii Province, there is a bus service between Ondorkhaan and UB from a central bus station, however the through buses going to/from UB to Dornod and Sukhbaatar Aimags (Choybalsan and Baruun-Urt) will stop at a gas station on the north side of the city. ====Bus tickets==== Tickets are sold in the station, not in the coach. Don't expect any cashier, driver or conductor to speak anything but Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. It's not possible to pay by credit card. Your passport is required to buy a ticket. If you have a luggage exceeding the standard (written in your ticket) in weight or size, you'll be asked for an extra fee by the conductor. You can negotiate this one. ====Inside a bus==== On some routes, the driver and the conductor illegally add extra passengers and pocket the cash. They might even try to make 3 people sit on 2 seats, for instance: you can protest in such a case. Your ticket gives you the right to a full seat and this is what you get in most coaches. The coach will usually stop for a rather quick lunch or dinner at a local snackshop or canteen. ===By minivan=== Public countryside taxis and minivans, often called purgon or mekr, offer more destinations than coaches and many more than train, especially between provinces. They are more dangerous than coaches and trains, and always overloaded. Most drivers don't respect the traffic rules. Countryside taxis and minivans leave when full. They always say they will go "now" ("odo") despite often departing hours later. See how many people are already sitting inside the vehicle to have an idea of how long you'll wait. Drivers also usually promise to pick up additional passengers and cargo before leaving town. ===By chartered jeep=== [[image:Mongol cable ferry.jpg|thumb|River ferry in Hovsgol]] It is also possible to charter a Jeep and driver for private use. Prices are typically negotiated by the kilometre. While far more expensive than sharing a ride with the locals, this means of transport is considerably more convenient and allows you to visit more remote sites. It can also be quite convenient to hire a guide to use during the length of your stay. Doing so can allow you to travel without worrying about taxi drivers overcharging by up to 10x for being a foreigner. ===By car=== One of the most convenient ways to get around is by car. This isn't to say that it's completely safe, however. Road accidents are very common in Mongolia, largely because of reckless driving habits. Drivers do not obey traffic rules and speeding is common. Many cars are in poor condition and not all of them are fitted with seat belts. The road network is narrow and generally in poor condition. Avoid driving at night, as most roads are unlit and may have obstacles and potholes. ===By taxi=== In the cities, taxis should charge about 1500&nbsp;₮ per km. The drivers will set their trip meter and charge accordingly. ===By horse=== For local travel, horse-back is a good option. Mongolians ride on wooden saddles, so if you value your buttocks it's probably a good idea to pick up a leather, Russian saddle in UB. ===By foot=== Walking is another great alternative. Since camping is possible anywhere, resting is never a problem. Wherever there is water, there are nomads, and if you stick to the major dirt roads you will encounter plenty of guanz, which can provide huge cheap meals to keep you going. Adopting the Mongolian style of sleeping outdoors is also an option: wrap yourself in wool blankets and then cover yourself with a Russian raincoat (essentially a tarpaulin in the form of a trench coat), and simply plop yourself down on the ground. One night sleeping this way gives a whole new appreciation for the wonders of sleeping bags and bivvy sacks/tents. ==See== [[image:Gandan Monastery 10.JPG|thumb|Monk at the Gandan Monastery]] Mongolia is a big country that has been beyond the reach of travellers and the normal trappings of civilization until the 21st century. Even today it can be difficult to travel between the few places that 'exist'. There is little noteworthy architecture in the country. Except for the short-lived capital of the Mongol Empire at '''[[Karakorum]] (Kharkhorin)''', the descendants of Genghis Khan left little evidence of their power inside their native homeland. Genghis Khan, who leveled cities from the Yellow Sea to the Caspian, was said to have only built one permanent building during his life, a warehouse to store his stupendous amount of loot. ====Archaeology==== [[File:BuddhaErdeneZuuMonasteryMongolia.JPG|thumb|Buddha at Erdene Zuu]] Though this structure no longer exists, the capital built by his son, Ögedei, does, as do countless artifacts in the National Museum in [[Ulaanbaatar]], and thousands of stone monuments and drawings spread throughout the country, some dating back thousands of years. After the gradual disintegration of the Mongol Empire, many Tibetan Buddhist monasteries were built, providing the most visible signs of Mongolia's history. Today only a few still stand after Stalinist religious purges. Of particular note is the '''[[Northern Mongolia|Amarbaysgalant Monastery]]''' in Selenge, the '''Erdene Zuu Monastery''' in Kharkhorin, and '''Gandan Monastery''' in Ulaanbaatar, all active religious sites with large numbers of resident lamas. During the communist era, the Soviets helped establish large modern cities and modern industries, which aren't very pretty, but are of some interest, particularly the biggest open-pit copper mine in Asia at [[Erdenet]]. For a country that prides itself on its nomadic heritage, there are a surprising amount of ruins of stone structures (and even cities) scattered about Mongolia. With the exception of Kharkhorin, practically none of these are anywhere near a paved road, but their isolation makes their grandeur even more impressive. People interested in the ethnogenesis of the Turkic peoples will not want to miss the '''Orkhon Inscriptions''' in the Orkhon Valley (about a 40 minute drive north of Kharkhorin). These two massive stone stelae contain the oldest written Turkic language, and serve as a sort of Rosetta Stone for the reconstruction of both Old Turkic and Proto-Turkic. The Turkish government has funded a nice museum on the site and a paved road from the museum to Kharkhorin, making the inscriptions easily accessible to travellers. =====Monasteries===== Before the religious purges, Mongolia had around 750 monasteries and was a theocracy. Many were destroyed, while some were turned into museums by the communists to display Mongolian art or the opulence of the former religious leaders. Today the '''Choijin Lama Monastery''' and the '''Bogd Khan Winter Palace''' are preserved as museums for the art of the Lamas and the toys of the former king. Other ancient monasteries are slowly reopening and recovering like the Amarbaysalant in Selenge Province or the Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar. Most monasteries today are small, newly built temples in towns that didn't even exist before the purges. =====Museums===== Besides the monastery museums, Ulaanbaatar hosts several interesting and noteworthy museums to see before going off to the countryside. The best one by far is the '''National Museum of Mongolia''' with large collections of artifacts from the Mongol Empire through the Democratic Revolution of 1990. The '''Chinggis Khaan Museum''' in Ulaanbaatar offers an even larger collection, although it only spans prehistory to the Qing Empire. Several other good art museums and lesser history and nature museums also exist in the city if you will be there for an extended time. Outside of the capital, every provincial center also has a small museum usually built by the communists and mostly not updated since they left. These museums are cheap and do have useful displays on local cultures and history. There are also some '''communist-era sites'''. ====Nature==== One thing that does look much the same as it always has is the unspoiled nature of Mongolia. Due to its very low population density, the lowest in the world, it is possible to travel days with only seeing the occasional nomadic herder interrupting endless rolling steppes, the vast [[Gobi]] desert, or the snow-capped Altai Mountains. Up north, Siberian forests surround the 2nd largest freshwater lake in Asia by volume, Hôvsgôl (or "Hövsgöl") lake, in [[Hövsgöl]] province, which is very beautiful. The '''Flaming Cliffs''' near [[Dalanzadgad]] are stunning just to see, but also contain some of the earliest and most important dinosaur discoveries. ====People==== The most memorable part of any trip to Mongolia, regardless of what drew you here, will certainly be the people. Mongolians are incredibly hospitable to guests. No trip here is complete without having dinner or staying the night with '''nomadic herders'''. Around a third of the population still earns a living as semi-nomadic herders living in gers (yurts) on the open steppe. While their diets are not very diverse, consisting of meat, flour, and dairy, they will seek to serve guests a feast of boiled or fried meat and hot milky tea, with traditional entertainments of music, singing, and maybe dance. There is some variation depending on which tribe or region, with Kazakhs near [[Ölgii]] being the most different with different language, diet, and dress, including the practice of '''eagle hunting'''. While the Tuvans have a beautiful, eerie singing style of throat-singing, and the Tsaatan people live isolated lives herding reindeer near Lake Hövsgöl. Then there are the Lama monks who are increasingly common in monasteries and elsewhere, and the '''Shaman priests''', who practice the ancient animist religions of worshiping nature and the earth, and are widely respected in Mongolia. ==Do== [[image:Mongolian honor guard procession.jpg|thumb|Mongolian honor guard]] Experiencing the culture and having a meal or spending the night with a nomadic family are authentic Mongolian experiences. Whether you go just outside of the capital or fly to the far corners of the country, this is the most memorable part of any trip. There are some variations on the experience, depending on the tribal group. The '''[[Trans-Siberian Railway]]''' passes through the country. Also follow the path of [[On the trail of Marco Polo|Marco Polo]] across Europe and Asia into Mongolia to visit the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in [[Karakorum]]. Mongolia is the least densely populated country in the world and has very little development of any kind outside of the capital and a few small towns. There often aren't even roads connecting these towns. This pristine setting means that Mongolia has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Traveling across this vast country is often an adventure in itself with tourists and adventurers alike going by car, motorcycle, bike, horse, camel, or foot. Most often this means camping on the shore of a river or with a nomadic family or in small roadside hotels in provincial towns. Along the way or on one of the many wild rivers and nature preserves, there is great fishing, particularly fly-fishing during the summer. Climbing the mountains in the west is popular as well as photographing the wildlife, flora, or the multitude of birds living or migrating through Mongolia. * Canoe down some of Mongolia's major rivers. * Listen to traditional Mongolian '''throat singing'''. * Visit reindeer herders, such as the Tsaatan Community, which is west of Khovsgol lake. Several tour companies sell tours to visit the reindeer herders living in high alpine mountains. To get there, ride horses from Tsagaannuur or Rinchinlhumbe. You need to get a border permit in UB or Murun before starting the tour. Most licensed tour companies can get the border permit if you provide your travel details in advance. Horse-trekking can be hard and long. But it's worth traveling there. * Local Bonda Lake Camp in Khatgal village near Lake Khovsgol offers fishing, hiking, winter tours, nomad visits, horseback riding, visiting reindeer herders and the Darhad valley. Horse riding, you can discover Lake Khovsgol and its beautiful waters, meet Tsataan (nomadic reindeer herders) living in gers in the north of Khovsgol area. This region is incredibly scenic, perched at 1645 m altitude in green mountains, covered with thick pine forests and lush meadows with grazing yaks and horses, and rich with wildlife: the lake has 9 species of fish and its surroundings are full of sheep, goats, elk and more than 430 species of birds. There are 5 Mongolian tribes nearby: Khalh, Darhad, Buriad, Hotgoid, and Urianhai. The camp has a hot shower, sauna, internet and a restaurant with Mongolian and European meals. *{{do | name=Mountain Climbing | alt= | url= | email= | address=All over Mongolia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Best to climb the highest peaks in July and August | price= | content=While much of the country is rolling steppe, there are several mountain ranges. The Altai Mountains in the west have several peaks of over {{ft|13,000}} up to {{ft|14,201}} in [[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]. The highest mountains have snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and require special equipment and experienced guides. Smaller mountains throughout the country can be hiked in an afternoon, including many surrounding the capital of Ulaanbaatar. }} ===Winter activities=== *{{listing | type=do | name=Join Kazakh eagle hunters on a hunt | alt= | url= | email= | address=In [[Western Mongolia]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=During the cold winter months, the Kazakhs in western Mongolia use eagles to hunt for foxes and hares, which are easier to see against the snow. Freezing temperatures and long days on Mongolian or Kazakh horses discourage most people from attempting this adventure. For those who do, seeing an eagle released from a man's forearm swoop down and kill a fox a mile away is an unforgettable experience. }} *Skiing: There is one ski resort outside of Ulaanbaatar with a ski lift, equipment rentals, instructors, and all the other features of a ski resort. The lift may be slow, and the runs a bit hard, but it does provide good entertainment for those visiting UB during the long, cold winter months. For more adventurous types, western Mongolia's large mountain ranges provide great '''back-country skiing'''. The spring months of April and May get the most snow and make the best skiing. Either join a tour or lug all of your own equipment. There aren't any ski shops in the nearby villages. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mongolian tögrög | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;₮ | date=January 2025 | USD=3,435 | EUR=3,550 | GBP=4,300 | CNY= | RUB=3,362 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mnt-mongolian-tughrik/ XE.com] }} The Mongolian currency is the '''tögrög''' (also spelled "tugrik", "tugrug" etc.; Mongol: төгрөг), denoted by the sign "'''₮'''" (ISO international currency code: '''MNT'''). You may also see the notations "tg" and "T". Banknote denominations in circulation are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000&nbsp;₮. It is virtually impossible to exchange tögrög outside the country, so don't exchange too much. US dollars are widely accepted in the tourist industry, especially for larger payments (hotels, guides, etc.), but are not usable in the countryside. ===Tipping=== In Mongolia tipping is rarely expected except in tourism-related services like tour guides. Waiters, taxis, and hotel attendants do not expect tips. Sometimes taxis will attempt to overcharge you by refusing to give change back, but this has nothing to do with gratuity. Some nicer restaurants and hotels in the capital do often add fees to the bill for service, especially for larger groups. ===Shopping=== *Mongolian cashmere is known as the best in the world, so consider buying garments and blankets from one of the many stores selling cashmere products. *Mongolia is famous for its copper mines Erdenet and Oyu Tolgoi. A copper bookmark might make an ideal souvenir and you can easily find this US$1 metal souvenir in Ulaanbaatar souvenir shops. *'''Kazakh embroideries''' made in [[Ölgii]] using traditional Kazakh designs are sold in many gift shops in Ulaanbaatar. *'''Paintings''' by local artists are excellent buys in Mongolia. *You can find '''felt poker-work''' in [[Erdenet]]. *It is illegal to take '''antiques''' out of the country without a special permit. *The huge open-air market, '''Narantuul''' ("The Black Market") in Ulaanbaatar offers the lowest prices on just about anything you could want. Beware of the many pickpockets and even attackers there. This can be a great place to get a good pair of ''riding boots''. You can opt for a variety of Mongolian styles, from fancy to the more practical, or even get a good set of Russian-style boots. *Mongolia is justly famous for its [[carpets]]. [[Erdenet]] is home to Mongolia's largest carpet factory, also making and selling slippers made of carpet, though its carpets are made by machine, not traditional methods. For traditional carpets, visit a local market, including the famous Black Market in [[Ulaanbaatar]]. ===Grocery shopping=== ''Prices as of April 2018:'' * Bread (1 loaf) - 1,600 ₮ * Bottled water (0.5 liter) - 600 ₮ * Beef (1kg) - 9,500 ₮ * Yogurt (0.45kg) - 1,600 ₮ * Beer (0.5 liter) - 2,000 ₮ to 5,000 ₮ * Milk (1 liter) - 2,350 ₮ * Potato (1kg) - 1,050 ₮ * Onion (1kg) - 1,550 ₮ * Coffee (0.8kg) - 12,000 ₮ * Banana (1kg) - 4,500 ₮ * Grape (1kg) - 11,000 ₮ * Apple juice (2 liters) - 5,000 ₮ * Eggs (10) - 4,450 ₮ ==Eat== {{infobox|Un-Mongolian barbecue|Boiled mutton? Aren't Mongolians famous for barbecue? Sadly, no: "Mongolian BBQ" was invented in Taiwan in the 1970s. Due to tourist demand, there is one Mongolian BBQ place in Ulaanbaatar now, but it's run by an American!}} [[File:Dishes_of_Mongolian_cuisine.jpg|thumb|The Mongolian trifecta: ''khuushuur'' fried dumplings on the left, ''buuz'' steamed dumplings on the right, and pieces of boiled mutton on top]] Anywhere you find people in Mongolia, you will also smell the scent of '''boiled mutton''', the principal dish of Mongolia. A typical herder in the countryside will eat little else, flavored only with a little salt. Vegetables and spices are very limited, and even flour may be in short supply, since the climate is poorly suited to agriculture. Restaurants, canteens and tea shops in Mongolia also have a mutton-centric menu, revolving around three dishes: * ''buuz'' (бууз) &mdash; Steamed dumplings stuffed with meat, often called the national dish of Mongolia. Derived from the Chinese ''baozi''. A set of 6 usually costs 1,200-2,000&nbsp;₮. * ''khuushuur'' (хуушууp) &mdash; Deep-fried stuffed flatbread with meat and onion, originally a festive dish but now ubiquitous. 3 or 4 will fill you up. * ''tsuivan'' (цуйван) &mdash; Fried noodles with meat and a few token vegetables, often served with ketchup on the side. Around 2,000-4,000&nbsp;₮ a serve. Horse, yak and beef are also eaten, and dairy products like ''byaslag'' (бяслаг), a mild, paneer-like fresh cheese, and ''öröm'' (өрөм), clotted cream, are also common. ''Aaruul'' (ааруул) dried curds are also a common snack: these are typically rock hard and have to be eaten by ''slowly'' dissolving them in your mouth, which eventually turns them into lumps of cheesy putty. [[File:Boodog made from a marmot.JPG|thumb|Preparing a marmot as ''boodog'']] For special occasions, ''boodog'' (боодог) or goat/marmot barbecue, is particularly worth experiencing. For about 15,000-20,000&nbsp;₮, a nomad will head out with his gun, shoot a marmot or a goat, and then cook it for you without a pot: the meat, vegetables, water and stones are cooked inside the skin of the animal. They skin it very carefully, and then tie off the holes at the legs and back side, put the food and hot stones inside, tie off the throat, and let it cook for about 30 minutes. Though rare, with only 692 cases of marmot plague recorded between 1928 to 2018, the Tarbagan marmot is known to carry the bubonic plague, but fatal cases tend to be those that partake in the consumption of raw marmot organs that are sometimes eatern separately from the ''boodog.'' Along the same lines is ''khorkhog'' (xopxoг), made of mutton, which is prepared like so: build a fire; toss stones into fire until red hot; place water, hot stones, onions, potatoes, carrots, and, finally, mutton chops, into a large vacuum-sealed kettle; let the kettle simmer over a fire for 30-60 minutes; open kettle carefully, as the top will inevitably explode, sending hot juices flying everywhere; once the kettle is opened, and all injuries have been tended to, eat contents of kettle, including the salty broth. This cooking method makes mutton taste tender and juicy, like slow-roasted turkey. Ask your guide if he or she can arrange one (but only during summer). ===Where to eat=== Ulaanbaatar has a cosmopolitan scene with plenty of international options, ranging from fine dining at the Kempinski to fast-food dumplings at [https://www.khaanbuuz.mn/ Khaan Buuz], the country's answer to McDonalds. The many Korean restaurants in particular are worth exploring. It is also the only place in the country where vegetarians can fairly easily find food, although tour agents can usually arrange vegetarian meals elsewhere with sufficient notice. In the countryside, the only dining option is often the ''guanz'' (гуанз), a roadside ''ger'' tent offering a simple menu, often only ''tsuivan'' noodles and salted milk tea. ==Drink== [[File:Mongolia 105.JPG|thumb|A milk pail in Mongolia]] The most common drink in Mongolia is '''salted milk tea''' (сүүтэй цай ''süütei tsai''), which is essentially a cup of boiled milk and water, sometimes with a couple pieces of tea leaf and/or a pinch of salt thrown in for good measure. A cup of this and a bowl of dried snacks is the first thing served when you visit a ''ger'', and it accompanies food at restaurants as well. The tea can be bulked up into a meal by adding in some toasted millet, rice, meat or bansh. You might want to build up your tolerance by drinking lots of milk in preparation for your stay because they don't drink much else, except perhaps boiled water if you specially request it during a longer stay. Also, most traditional nomadic foods such as dried yogurt and the like require acclimatization to milk as well. Cold drinks don't actually exist in the countryside (unless you intend to drink straight out of a river, generally not recommended). [[File:Homemade airag in Mongolia.jpg|thumb|A glass of homemade ''airag'', prepared in the blue plastic barrel in the background]] The national drink, though, is '''''airag''''' (айраг). Essentially the same as the Central Asian ''kumiss'', this is a summer seasonal drink made from fermented mare's milk, and is certainly an acquired taste. The alcohol content is less than that of beer, but can have noticeable effects. Be careful, if you aren't accustomed to drinking sour milk products, the first time might give you diarrhea as your stomach gets accustomed to it. This should only happen the first time though. Once you've completed the ritual, your digestive system shouldn't complain again. There are numerous ways to describe the taste, from bile-like to a mixture of lemonade and sour cream. The texture can also be offsetting to some people since it can be slightly gritty. It is worth keeping in mind that Airag is milk and a source of nutrients. After a day of riding it can actually be quite refreshing, once acquiring a taste for it. ''Airag'' is "microbrewed" locally, not commercially produced, but in season it's sold at stands including Gandantegchinlen Monastery and at the West Market in Ulaanbaatar. Much stronger than ''airag'' is '''''arkhi''''' (архи), a strong liquor distilled from milk and often called "milk vodka". Like vodka, the taste is quite neutral, and after you have your first shot of the vodka you won't feel anything, but a few minutes later it will get to your head. Most people in Mongolia usually drink this for medical reasons. First you heat up the vodka then put in a little bit of special oil which is also made from milk. Careful don't overheat it, you might get blind. Mongolians call their national vodka ''nermel arkhi'' ("distilled vodka") or ''changa yum'' ("tight stuff"). Many Russian-style vodkas are sold throughout the country. The best are '''Chinggis Khaan vodka''', '''Soyombo''' and '''Golden Chinggis'''. In Ulaanbaatar you can find most Western beers, from Miller to Heineken. They sell Budweiser -- not American Bud but the [[Czech Republic|Czech]] Budweiser. Local beer, such as Chingis, Gem Grand, Borgio or Sengur is fine. ==Sleep== Some '''western-style accommodation''' is available in [[Ulaanbaatar]], but it goes for western prices. There are a few nice guest houses in UB for less than US$10 per night (even as cheap as 3,000&nbsp;₮ if you're willing to share a room), but they are crowded during the tourist season and hard to get into. Out in the countryside, most of the hotels are rundown Soviet-era leftovers. A better option is tourist ''ger'', set up by entrepreneurial locals. Staying at one of these costs about ₮5000 per person per night. They often include breakfast and dinner as well. When staying in one of these guest ger, the usual gift-giving customs can be skipped. Finally, there are also '''ger-camps'''. Set up by tour companies, they do occasionally rent out space to independent travellers. Unfortunately, they tend to be both expensive (US$35 per person per night with 3 meals) and out of the way. To stay at a ger camp, use the online booking portals [https://ihotel.mn/ iHotel] and [http://www.mongoliagercamps.net Mongolian Ger Camps Network]. Except for the cities and larger towns, all land is publicly owned. This means you can '''pitch a tent''' pretty much anywhere. Courtesy dictates that you keep your distance from existing nomad encampments. Common sense dictates that you don't pitch a tent in the middle of or too close to a road. Nowadays, there are more than 300 hotels in Mongolia and these are graded between 1 and 5 stars. Hotels holding 3 stars or more are for tourist service and must obtain permission in order to operate. The Accommodation Grading Committee, consisting of the Ministry, travel industry associations and tourism researchers, rate an accommodation according to Mongolian standards. ==Learn== There are some '''language schools''' in the capital. The two most known to foreigners are Bridge School and Friends School. Both offer group study classes and individual tutors. Also, the [http://www.num.edu.mn/en/ National University of Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offers courses. It usually takes westerners about 9 to 18 months before they acquire good conversational abilities in Mongolian. Speakers of Korean, Japanese, and Turkic languages, like Turkish and Kazakh, tend to learn more quickly due to the similarities in grammatical structure. A Mongolian language school with a website is [http://mongolianlanguage.mn '''Nomiin Ger''']. ==Work== It can be difficult to find employment as a foreigner in Mongolia. Obtaining a work permit requires being sponsored by a Mongolian company and every company has a strict quota on the number of foreign nationals they may employ. Foreign nationals are not allowed to comprise more than 20% of a Mongolian company's workforce. This is as good as saying that the Mongolian government is reluctant to let foreigner workers compete with Mongolians. There is a huge demand for native English speakers as English teachers. Anyone who is interested in [[teaching English]] will have no trouble getting employment and a work visa through a school or organization. However, the pay is generally lower than in other countries. Though it'll usually be just enough for room and board plus a little extra. Local English-language media hire native speakers as editors, proof-readers and photojournalists. Volunteer work is available teaching English, assisting with charity work and joining archaeological digs. These jobs are easy to find and very rewarding. ==Stay safe== [[File:Sunset in Ulaanbaatar (6216619493).jpg|thumb|Sunset in Ulaanbaatar]] Mongolia is mostly a safe country to visit, but take care in nights and when alcohol is involved, and if venturing out away from shelter with risks of harsh weather. Women should be aware of problems common in conservative regions. [[Aggressive dogs]] may run in packs. Be wary of them since they are not likely to be as tame as domestic dogs elsewhere. Most fenced yards and gers have a guard dog that is usually all bark and no bite, though it is advised to make it aware of you so as to not surprise it, and carry a rock in case it does charge you. Manhole covers — or more precisely, the lack of such covers — is a surprisingly common cause of injuries among foreigners and (especially drunk) tourists. In smaller cities and outlying areas of the capital, there are many missing or poorly placed covers. Avoid stepping on any manhole and pay attention to where you walk. ===Crime and harassment=== Apart from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia is generally a safe place to travel. However, incidents of [[pickpockets|pickpocketing]] and bag slashing have occurred, so always keep your personal belongings in a safe place (money belts are highly recommended), especially in crowded areas or in places where your attention is diverted. Notorious places for theft are the Black Market (bazaar), the railway station and crowded bus stops. Unfortunately, xenophobia and violence towards foreigners is common. Alcoholism is a huge social problem and Mongolia has the highest rate of liver cancer in the world<!--according to www.wcrf.org and most other reputable sources-->. Do not acknowledge or approach any Mongolian man under the influence of alcohol. Many foreigners who go to bars and clubs at night report assault and general aggression. Mongolians are quite open people and tend to be curious and ask many questions just to be friendly. Try to answer diplomatically, and vaguely, especially relating to any perceived negative aspect of Mongolia. Violent crime is also common outside the capital city (Darkhan especially), so caution is required at night. In particular, dark or deserted alleys and streets should be avoided. Generally, if walking past 22:00, avoid people if at all possible. Mongolians can be very friendly, but their emotions and motives can change quite quickly. Someone who may genuinely just want to have a couple drinks with you may suddenly become aggressive regardless of your respect and polite actions. Corruption is a huge problem in Mongolia, and locals are convinced that the police are not to be trusted. There are small bands of Mongolian ultra-nationalist thugs that style themselves as neo-Nazis and have assaulted foreigners including whites, blacks, and particularly, Chinese. They are especially provoked by foreigner interaction with Mongolian women. They are mostly found in the capital, especially in the cheaper bars and nightclubs. Lone or female travelers need to exercise a higher degree of awareness of their surroundings, as getting groped in the chest or behind is not uncommon. Some actions like dancing close to a man will be seen as an open invitation, as Mongolians generally don't dance this way. === Weather conditions === Perhaps the biggest danger in Mongolia is the extreme weather. Owing to its large size, high elevation, proximity to [[Siberia]] in Russia, and its landlocked geography, Mongolian winters are incredibly harsh and temperatures can fall as low as -40° Celsius. That's why [[Ulaanbaatar]] is often dubbed the coldest capital city in the world. When visiting Mongolia in the winter, layer every article of clothing you own and '''do not''' walk around too much in the open. Frostbite is a real risk, and freezing to death is a possibility. If you are unprepared to deal with such weather conditions, visit Mongolia during the summer. === Driving === Driving in Mongolia can be dangerous, especially for those who are not used to driving in developing countries. Roads outside the capital tend to be in poor condition, and incredibly harsh weather makes things all the more difficult. In the capital, motorists can be aggressive and drunk driving is common. Take care when crossing roads or busy intersections. If you have little to no knowledge of Mongolian roads and driving around in isolated areas, it is '''strongly recommended''' that you do not drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Outside the capital, help is incredibly limited and you can get lost if you don't know what you're doing. If you must drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]], consider informing a trusted local about your plans. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Air pollution in ulaanbaatar.jpg|thumb|Air pollution in Ulaanbaatar]] * Nomads' dogs may have '''rabies'''. As a precaution, consider having a rabies shot before coming. * Marmots should not be eaten at certain times of the year because they can carry '''bubonic plague'''. That said, the disease is carried by the marmot's fleas so the afflicted tend to be fur traders, and marmot is not a mainstream dish even in Mongolia. * Hepatitis and tuberculosis are common throughout Mongolia. * '''[[Tap water]]''' is unsafe to drink. === Pollution === [[Ulaanbaatar]] has polluted air, largely due to pervasive coal-burning for domestic heating. If you suffer from a respiratory disease and plan to visit Mongolia in winter, consult a medical professional for advice. ==Respect== [[File:Jurte in der Mongolei.JPG|thumb|A common sight in the Mongolian countryside. If you have been invited to go inside one, accept it.]] Compared to other countries in Asia, Mongolians are generally straightforward. Expect someone to tell you exactly what they think and feel. Anti-China sentiment is high in Mongolia due to historiographical and cultural disputes, and because China is seen by Mongolians as a colonial oppressor. As such, refrain from wearing anything associated with China, and refrain from talking about China. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia is referred to as "southern Mongolia" by most Mongolians. Many Mongolians consider it to be Mongolian territory under Chinese occupation. Mongols traditionally live on the steppes, breeding horses, just like their ancestor Genghis Khan. Not surprisingly, following Western pleasantries will mostly not have the intended effect in Mongolia. Instead, try to follow local good manners. Always receive items with the '''right hand''', palm facing up. Drink from the right hand with the palm up as well. It is very rude to refuse a gift. If offered a plate of hospitality munchies, take at least a small nibble from something. Never point at anyone with your index finger since it implies disrespect. Whenever you approach a nomadic family, or enter a ger, you will, without knowing, break one or several of the many traditional, religious and superstitious customs. If you do become confused, don't panic, minor indiscretions will be tolerated and forgiven. The following do's and don'ts will help avoid offending anyone. === What to do=== * Say hello (sain bainuu) upon arriving (but repeating it when you see the same person is considered strange) * Take at least a sip, or a nibble, of the delicacies offered. * Pick up everything with an open hand, with your palm facing upwards. * Hold a cup by the bottom, and not by the top rim. * If by accident you tap someone's foot with yours, immediately shake hands with them (failing to do so will be seen as an insult). * Exchange pleasantries and engage in some small talk before asking someone for something. * Discuss one's family and the weather. In nomadic areas, asking about a nomad's animals is customary. * Discuss where you're from and what you're doing in Mongolia/the place you're visiting. * Show respect to elders and figures of authority. === What not to do === * Lean against a support column * Whistle inside a ger * Stand on, or lean over, the threshold * Stamp out a fire, or put water or any rubbish on it (fire is sacred to Mongolians) * Walk in front of an older person; or turn your back to the altar, or religious objects (except when leaving) * Take food from a communal plate with your left hand * Touch other people's hats * Do not have a long conversation in your own language in front of your hosts; make an effort to include your hosts. * Do not reject an invitation to visit a ger; hospitality is a cornerstone in the nomadic parts of Mongolia and outright rejecting an invitation will seriously offend the nomads. * Refuse food and drink offered by your hosts; as is the case in many Asian cultures, it is ''very rude'' to do this in Mongolia and shows no respect to your hosts. * Not finishing the food that has been offered to you; as is the case in many Asian cultures, wasting food is ''frowned upon''. * Urinate in lakes or bodies of water; water is considered sacred and holy in Mongolia. * Speak negatively about Genghis Khan. Most Mongolians revere him, and he is regarded as a national hero and the father of their nation. ==Connect== '''Internet cafés''' are less common than they were, but nicer restaurants provide Wi-Fi in the capital. The postal service is slow and most people have a PO Box if they want to get anything. It is possible to buy phone cards that can be used to call abroad very cheaply from domestic phones, but not all phones can do this. (You can ask for MiCom or MobiCom cards). In the countryside, cell phone carriers cover random villages. Between Mobicom, Unitel, and GMobile, all villages or Soum centers are covered. Internet cafés are plentiful in Aimag centers (provincial capitals) now, with all Aimag post offices having one, plus many smaller cafés. There is Internet in some Soums (villages), but this is rare, slow, and prone to frequent outages. To make local calls in Ulaanbaatar, use a phone of one of the many entrepreneurs with cellular telephones on the street corners. Expect to pay 150-200&nbsp;₮ per minute (June 2009 prices). ==Go next== ===To [[China]]=== From Ulaanbaatar, there are several options: Firstly, the international train. Tickets are sold in the ticket office in the VIP lounge on the second floor of the international ticket office across the street from the train station. The second option is to board the Hohhot international train and transfer at [[Erlian]] or [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]]. See the travel agency located on the 1st (ground) floor of the international ticket office for details. The third option is to take the daily train to [[Zamiin-Üüd]], Mongolia at the border and take a bus or jeep to China, then go to the bus or train station in [[Erlian]], China. ===To [[Russia]]=== There are buses and trains to [[Ulan Ude]], from where you can explore the [[Lake Baikal]] region or board the [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] in either direction. {{isPartOf|East_Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|47|104|zoom=5}} i207z5etix2wimb1f5gsh8erg43pia1 5091317 5091315 2025-07-11T10:28:23Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091317 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mongolian_landscape_banner.jpg|disambig=yes}} '''Mongolia''' ([[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]: Монгол улс, Traditional Mongolian: [[File:Monggol_ulus.svg|40px]]) has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Its vast and majestic emptiness is the country's enduring appeal: it brings the traveller into a close communion with nature and its nomadic inhabitants. It is one of the last places on earth where nomadic life lives on. The most memorable part of a trip to Mongolia will be its hospitable people. Mongolian culture has much in common with the cultures of [[Central Asia]]. Mongolia offers great opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing, fishing and photography. Traveling across this huge country is often an adventure in itself. ==Regions== The country can be categorised into five regions based on culture and geography. These regions are further divided into 21 provinces (aimags) and one provincial municipality. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Mongolia regions map.png | regionmaptext=Mongolia regions | regionmapsize=450px | region1name=[[Central Mongolia]] | region1color=#72b970 | region1description=Includes [[Ulaanbaatar]] and the popular tourist region of [[Arkhangai]]. | region2name=[[Eastern Mongolia]] | region2color=#c16161 | region2description=The birthplace of Genghis Khan and heart of the Mongolian steppe. | region3name=[[Gobi]] | region3color=#d0c56c | region3description=As the name implies, home to the immense Gobi Desert. | region4name=[[Northern Mongolia]] | region4color=#7db1de | region4description=Contains many of Mongolia's forests and the massive [[Lake Khövsgöl]]. | region5name=[[Western Mongolia]] | region5color=#a77da5 | region5description=Home of Lake Uvs Nuur and Tavan Bogd Mountains, is also the most diverse region with a dozen different tribes including the Kazakhs. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#72b970|title=[[Central Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207809,Q234713,Q276195,Q23430}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c16161|title=[[Eastern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207795,Q239040,Q244804}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d0c56c|title=[[Gobi]]|wikidata=Q276200,Q213272,Q211835,Q192945,Q236333,Q235579}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#7db1de|title=[[Northern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q209774,Q18827,Q244788,Q234710,Q234680}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a77da5|title=[[Western Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q191792,Q194098,Q192942,Q167764}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|46.46|103.71|zoom=4|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ulaanbaatar]]|url=|lat=47.92|long=106.92|wikidata=Q23430}} (''Ulan Bator'', [[Mongolian]]: '''Улаанбаатар''') – the capital city and starting point for most travel in this country. Half the population lives here. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Choibalsan]]|url=|lat=48.078333|long=114.535|wikidata=Q318245}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чойбалсан''') – large industrial city in the east *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Erdenet]]|url=|lat=49.027778|long=104.044444|wikidata=Q230628}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Эрдэнэт''') – Mongolia's second largest city and home to one of the world's biggest copper mines and a famous carpet factory *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hovd]]|url=|lat=48.004167|long=91.640556|wikidata=Q731256}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Ховд''') – a historic city at the crossroads of traditional Mongol and Kazakh culture *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Karakorum]]|url=|lat=47.210278|long=102.847778|wikidata=Q62677}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Хархорум''') – the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, established by Genghis' son Ogedei *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Mörön]]|url=|lat=49.635556|long=100.155556|wikidata=Q572951}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Мөрөн''') – a stopover for those visiting [[Hövsgöl]] province, it has several museums and a large collection of deer stones outside of town *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ölgii]]|url=|lat= 48.968333|long=89.968611|wikidata=Q297060}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Өлгий''') – a town in Mongolia's far western corner, the starting point for visiting Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Tsambagarav National Park and the eagle hunters who live *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Öndörkhaan|Chinggis]]|url=|lat=47.323333|long=110.661111}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чингис''') – near the birthplace (and possible burial site) of Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tsetserleg]]|url=|lat=47.476944|long=101.450278|wikidata=Q529834}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Цэцэрлэг''') – the most pleasant of Mongolia's provincial capitals sits in a beautiful forested valley in the Khangay mountains ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khogno Khan National Park]]|wikidata=Q93828284}} — a beautiful, and calm area boasting cultural sites such as Kharkhorin, the capital of the Mongolian Empire after Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]|lat=48.55|long=88.616667|wikidata=Q932232}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Алтай Таван богд байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — the tallest mountain and largest glacier in Mongolia, with Kazakh '''Eagle Hunters''' living in its shadow and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Petroglyphs]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Uvs Nuur Lake|lat=50.3|long=92.7}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Увс нуур''), [[Uvs|Uvs province]] — the largest lake in Mongolia and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Uvs Lake]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve]]|lat=47.541|long=108.343|wikidata=Q5618269}} — an ecotourism destination *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]|url=|lat=48.150204|long=107.576006|wikidata=Q1266074}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Горхи-Тэрэлж'') — a national park 70 km east of Ulaanbaatar *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Khövsgöl]]|lat=51.1|long=100.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Хөвсгөл нуур'') — a large freshwater alpine lake *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Darhad Valley|lat=51.166667|long=99.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Дархадын хотгор'') — home to the Reindeer people *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khustain Nuruu National Park]]|lat=47.765|long=105.878333|wikidata=Q1639106}} (Mongolian: ''Хустайн нуруу'') — Khustain Nuruu or Hustai National Park is home to the Takhi wild horses (also known as Przewalski's Horse). These are true wild horses which have never been domesticated. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park]]|lat=43.802729|long=101.589663|wikidata=Q1533528}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Говь гурван сайхан байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — Khongor Sand dunes, Yol Canyon, Bayanzag-Red Flaming Cliffs, and Khermen Tsav ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMongolia.png}} {{quote|Everybody needs to go to Mongolia just to see what it is to be a human being again.|author=Milla Jovovich, American actress.}} Mongolia is one of the world's largest landlocked countries, second only to [[Kazakhstan]] and is surrounded by two of the world's largest countries: [[China]] and [[Russia]]. It was the center of the [[Mongol Empire]], the largest contiguous empire in world history. With only 1.7 people per square kilometre, Mongolia has the lowest population density of any independent country. The country is nicknamed the "Land of Blue Skies," and with good reason. There are said to be about 250 sunny days throughout each year. The weather is bitterly cold during the winter, dropping down to -40°C in some parts. With many types of terrain — from desert to verdant mountains — the weather during the summer varies from region to region, but is generally hot. Outside of the Gobi desert, this time of year is marked with much rain in some areas, and it can become quite cool at night. For several letters, the ISO&nbsp;9 standard '''transliteration''' of Cyrillic is not widely used and there is no consensus either in Mongolia nor in Wikivoyage. Particularly, the same Cyrillic letter "х" is transliterated "h" or "kh", the letter "ө" is transliterated "ô", "ö", "o" or "u", but Latin "o" is also the transliteration of the Cyrillic "о", and Latin "u" is also the transliteration of Cyrillic "у" and "ү" (the latter should be transliterated "ù" according to ISO&nbsp;9, but this is rarely done). So, if you can't find a name as you wrote it, try other spellings. ''Mongolia'' may have geopolitical, cultural and geographical meanings. Modern-day Mongolia consists of what was historically ''Outer Mongolia'' (so-called when it was part of China). [[Inner Mongolia]] is politically separate and remains a province of China, sharing a border and a common cultural heritage with modern-day Mongolia. ===History=== {{see also|Mongol Empire|Imperial China}} [[File:USMC-100903-M-1294R-001.jpg|thumb|300px|Statue of Chinggis Khan outside the capital]] The recorded history of ancient Mongolia dates to the third century BC when the Xiongnu came to power among many other nomadic tribes. Due to illiteracy and their nomadic lifestyle, little was recorded by the Xiongnu of themselves; they first appear in recorded Chinese history as "barbarians" against whom the walls were built. Those walls later became known as the [[Great Wall of China]]. The Xiongnu were eventually defeated by China's Han Dynasty in AD 89. Xiongnu history is controversial. Different historians attribute them to several quite different ethnic groups. Some claim that Xiongnu is cognate to Hun Nu or even that these are basically the same group known as Huns centuries later in Europe, but both claims are contested. There have been several empires in Mongolia after the Xiongnu. The first strong state to emerge was the First Turkic Khaganate in AD 552 with its capital at Ötüken (modern-day [[Ordu-Baliq]]). However, due to political infighting, this empire fragmented into the Eastern Turkic Khaganate with its capital at Ötüken, and the Western Turkic Khaganate with its capital at [[Suyab]] (near [[Bishkek]] in modern-day [[Kyrgyzstan]]), in AD 603. Both of these states were eventually defeated by China's Tang Dynasty; the Eastern Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 630, while the Western Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 657. The next strong empire to emerge was the Uyghur Khaganate, with its capital Har Bulgas (Khar Bulgas or Xar Bulgas) near Har Horin. The Khitans who controlled northern China around AD 1000 as the Liao Dynasty had an administrative centre (Har Bukh) 120&nbsp;km to the northeast. The Turkish government has been promoting some Turkish Empire monuments and there is a museum full of artifacts at the Bilge Khaan site. The struggle for mere existence and power over other tribes continued until the time of Genghis Khan. Chinggis Khan, as he is known in Mongolia, born with the name Temüjin, came to power and united the warring tribes under the Great Mongol Empire in 1206. He was proclaimed Genghis Khan (Chingis Haan), meaning ruler of all Mongol tribes, and to this day, Mongolians consider him to be the father of their nation. The Mongol Empire was extended all the way to what is now [[Poland]] and [[Hungary]] in [[Europe]] under Genghis Khan, and they also conquered the Jurchen Jin Dynasty that then ruled northern China. His grandson, Kublai Khan, subsequently defeated the Chinese Song Dynasty and completed the conquest of China, establishing the Yuan Dynasty. [[Marco Polo]] travelled through much of the Mongol Empire in Kublai Khan's time. The Mongols were, however, driven back to the steppes by the Chinese Ming Dynasty under Emperor Hongwu. They were later progressively conquered by the Manchu Qing Dynasty in the 17th century, and played an important role in the Manchu conquest of China. An independent Mongol nation only reemerged in 1924. It was not recognised by China until 1945, as the Chinese were forced to grant independence to Outer Mongolia by the Soviet Union, in exchange for Soviet assistance in fighting the Japanese invasion. Thus, the historic region of Mongolia was split into two, with Outer Mongolia becoming the independent nation of Mongolia, while [[Inner Mongolia]] remained a province of China. Since that time, Mongolia has had a close relationship with the Soviet Union (and [[Russia]] after the breakup of the Soviet Union), with Russian becoming the most widely-spoken foreign language in Mongolia. Mongolia even replaced its traditional script with the Cyrillic alphabet. (The traditional script, however, continues to be used by ethnic Mongols in China.) Inner Mongolia was the more populated area before the partition, and the number of ethnic Mongols living in China still outnumbers the population of Mongolia. Following independence, the Soviet Union installed a communist government in Mongolia. Following the fall of communism in Europe, Mongolia enacted democratic reforms, which resulted in the first democratic multiparty elections in 1990. The democratic reforms culminated with the first peaceful transfer of power in 1996, when the incumbent Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party lost the elections, and handed power to the victorious Democratic Union. Mongolia's vast collection of natural resources such as gold, copper, and coal can very easily make it one of the wealthiest countries on the planet, but due to its landlocked geography, dependence on the goodwill of [[China]] and Russia, governmental and bureaucratic inefficiencies, Mongolia remains one of the least developed countries in Asia. ''The Secret History of the Mongols'' is one of the great recordings of Mongolian history. Every Mongolian reads the book in the modern Mongolian language. This is one of the oldest books in the Mongolian language. There are vivid similarities with the Bible in literary style, wording and story-telling. It is speculated that the author could have been a Christian or at least was very knowledgeable about the Bible. According to Hugh Kemp, Qadag is the most likely candidate for authorship of ''Secret History of the Mongols''. He writes about the history of ancient Mongolia and connects the modern reality with the ancient world. Even though the book is about the history of Christianity in Mongolia, it paints a view of ancient Mongolia from the height of 21st century. The ''History of Mongolia'' by B. Baabar is a good source for the modern history of Mongolia. [[On the trail of Marco Polo]] covers some travel through the Mongol Empire in the time of Genghis' grandson, Kublai Khan. ===People=== Mongolia is more than twice as big as Texas and nearly the same size as Alaska. Its area is 1.6 million km² (603,000 square miles), four times the size of Japan and larger than Spain, France and Germany combined. This makes Mongolia the sixth-largest country in Asia and 19th in the world, but the population is only 3.4 million (as of 2020), which makes Mongolia one of the least densely populated areas in Asia. Considering that half of the population lives in the capital city of Ulan Bator or Ulaanbaatar ("UB") that leaves lots of room for you to travel in the outback. Of course, the Gobi is even less dense. Almost another 40% of the population are scattered all over Mongolia with their 56 million head of sheep, goats, cattle, horses and camels. There are 21 provinces, called ''aimag''. Each ''aimag'' has a central city or town and about 15-22 sub-provinces called ''soum'', so you will know which ''aimag'' and which soum you are in. 70% of Mongolia is under the age of 35. The gender ratio is close to 1:1. It is home to various ethnic groups: 84% Khalkha Mongols, 6% Kazakhs and 10% other groups. More than 50% will say they are Buddhists, which is very much mixed with Shamanism, close to 10% will claim to be Christians of all forms and 4% follow Islam, the remainder will say that they are atheists. Mongolian Buddhism is part of the Vajrayana school, which is also dominant in [[Tibet]] and [[Bhutan]]. Almost all the Kazakhs and Muslims live in [[Bayan-Ölgii|Bayan-Ölgii province]]. === Economy === Mongolia possesses abundant deposits of copper, coal, tin, tungsten, molybdenum, and gold. The cashmere industry is also an important industry; Mongolia and its neighbour, China, are responsible for 85% of the world's cashmere supply. Although that sounds impressive, Mongolia is a relatively poor and undeveloped country. With an economy that depends heavily on the mining sector and on the goodwill of its two large neighbours, the country's economy is highly vulnerable to external shocks. When the Soviet Union disintegrated in 1991, the Mongolian economy lost a third of its GDP overnight, plunging the country into a state of disarray. ===Holidays and festivals=== [[Image:Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Naadam festival celebrations]] The annual '''Naadam festival''' (11–13 July) is the biggest day in many Mongols' calendars. It is when Mongolia celebrates its "three manly sports": wrestling, horse racing, and archery by either watching the festivities in Ulaanbaatar or by following them on television or radio. Many other smaller Naadam festivals are also held in different aimags (provinces) throughout July, and these more intimate festivals may let you get much closer to the action. The Naadam celebrations are said to have started with the rise of the Great Mongolian Empire. Chinggis (a.k.a. Genghis) Khan used them to keep his warriors strictly fit. After the fall of the empire, the contests were held during religious festivals, and since the communist revolution it was celebrated on its anniversary. Legend has it that a woman once dressed like man and won the wrestling competition. That is why the long-sleeved wrestling costumes, called "zodog", have open chests - to show that every participant is male. Wrestlers wear short trunks, "shuudag", and Mongolian boots, "gutal". The yellow stripes on tales of wrestlers' hats will indicate the number of times the wrestler became a champion in Naadam. {{CNYdates}} Only Naadam gives official titles to the wrestlers. Mongolian wrestling tournaments have 9 or 10 rounds depending on the number of 512 or 1024 wrestlers registered for the competition that year. If the wrestler wins 5 rounds, he will be awarded title "Nachin" (bird), 6 rounds - Hartsaga (hawk), 7 rounds - Zaan (elephant), 8 rounds - Garuda (Eagle), 9 rounds - Arslan (lion) and 10 - Avarga (Titan). In 2006, Zaan (Elephant) Sumyabazar won 9 rounds that made him Garuda but that year 1024 wrestlers had 10 rounds which he won all. This entitled him to Avarga. Or Arslan (Lion) must win 2 in a row to become Avarga (Titan). The titles are for life. If Avarga (Titan) keeps winning at Naadam more and more attributes will be added to his title. There are no weight categories in Mongolian Wrestling tournaments but there is a time limit of 30 minutes, if the wrestlers can not overthrow each other, referees use lots for better position which often settles the match. One who falls or whose body touches the ground loses the match. Mongolian wrestling matches are attended by seconds whose role is to assist their wrestlers in all matters and to encourage them to win by spanking on their butts. They also sing praise songs and titles to the leading wrestlers of both wings, west and east, after 5 and 7 rounds. The referees monitor the rules but the people and the fans are the final judges. They will speak and spread the word of mouth about who is who till the next year. ====Smaller festivals==== *'''Tsagaan Sar''' (White moon) - starts on the Lunar New Year and is a 3-day public holiday. Its not big with tourists for the obvious reason of being during the coldest month of the year. A time when families reunite and have a large meal of sheep's tail, mutton, rice with curds, dairy products, and buuz. It is also typical to drink airag and exchange gifts. *'''Golden Eagle Festival''' in [[Ölgii]] on October 5th and 6th is the world's largest gathering of eagle hunters. The event typically has 60 to 70 Kazakh eagle hunters displaying their skills. The events include having their golden eagles fly to them on command and catching a fox fur being pulled by a horse from a perch on a nearby mountain. The event also features traditional Kazakh games including Kokpar (tug-of-war over a goat carcass while on horseback), Tiyn Teru (a timed race to pick up a coin on the ground while on horseback), and Kyz Kuar ("girl chase" a race between a man and woman where the woman whips the man while he tries to hold on). The festival also has a traditional Kazakh concert, camel race, and displays of Kazakh art. A smaller eagle festival is held on Sept 22nd in the nearby village of Sagsai. *'''Nauryz''' also in [[Ölgii]] is the traditional new year's celebration of Kazakhs held on 22 March. There is a parade, concert, and horse races during the several days of celebrating. Though most of the celebration involves visiting friends and relatives to eat Nauryz Koje (soup) and boiled mutton and horse meat. *'''Ice Festival''' is held on the frozen surface of Lake Hövsgöl outside of [[Mörön]] each February. The 2-day festival includes wrestling, reindeer sleighs and riding, ice skating, shaman rituals, folk concert, and cultural events of the Tsagaan reindeer people. You should be warned; It is ''very cold'' in Northern Mongolia in February. *'''Yak Festival''' on July 23rd in between [[Karakorum]] and [[Arvayheer]]. The festival celebrates this large mammal that thrives in the cold Mongolian winters with a full day of yak races, a rodeo, and other competitions. There is a market, tourist gers, and a whole temporary village set up in the middle of the steppe. *'''Camel Festival''' in South Gobi province: A local non-governmental organization that aims to protect and preserve the Bactrian camel population organizes "The Thousand Camel Festival" in Bulgan County, South Gobi Province. The festival includes two types of camel races, camel-polo, and some other competitions related to camel breeders' cultural heritage such as training of untamed camels, making ropes from camel wool and loading. There is also a folk concert by school children from the countryside. The festival is held annually March 6–7 for 2 days. ====Public holidays==== While most business still takes place on most holidays, Tsagaan Sar and Naadam tend to last much longer than the official 3 days. Work may stop for weeks in the countryside for Tsagaan Sar. Also, election days are always public holidays and dry days. Alcohol is not sold on election days or the 1st of each month nationwide. * New Years – January 1 * Tsagaan Sar – January/February (3 days, depends on Lunar New Year) * International Women's Day – March 8 * Soldiers' Day – March 18 (not a day off, just lots of parades) * Mothers' and Children's' Day – June 1 * Naadam Festival – July 11–13 * Genghis Khan's Birthday – November 14 * Independence Day – November 26 (no longer a day off, replaced by Genghis Khan's Birthday) '''Working hours''' are almost always posted in 24 hours. Shops are usually open 10:00 to 21:00 or 22:00, and sometimes closed or shortened hours on Sunday or Monday. Banks usually open 08:00 or 09:00 to 17:00, though often closed for an hour for lunch. However, posted times are not always reliable, especially in the countryside. Expect shops to open at maybe 10:15 or 10:30 more often than not. Restaurants typically close around 22:00, while bars stay open until midnight or later. There are a few fast food restaurants in the capital that stay open until 03:00, but no shops open past midnight. ===Climate=== [[File:Khövsgöl Aimag12.JPG|thumb|Steppe in [[Hovsgol]] — if you want to experience desolate landscapes, Mongolia has plenty of them.]] The ideal Mongolia travel season starts in May and peaks in July, during the Naadam holiday, and in August when the weather is most favourable for travelling. This is the best time if you like the culture and can bear the crowds of other tourists. It is not a good time to get away from your busy lifestyle because of the traffic, busy schedules, waiting in lines, etc. September is also a very good time to visit, and October is not too late to travel to Mongolia. It is still warm during the days but a bit chilly during the nights. In the autumn, Mongolia is not very crowded, and this is time for late-comers and last-minute, unplanned trips. You will get to sightsee, enjoy the culture, and taste mare's milk, a bitter and at first somewhat unpleasant drink, throughout the country. For visitors not afraid of cold or fermented mare's milk, travelling to Mongolia from November till the Lunar New Year remains an option. Winter tourism is a developing area of the Mongolian tourism industry. The most rewarding experience will be visiting the nomads, as this is the time when you will experience their culture first-hand during "Tsagaan Sar" or the traditional (Lunar) New Year celebration. Cultural activities including singing, dancing, wrestling, and winter horse racing are available to tourists. Mongolia is known to have 250-260 sunny days throughout the year, so you will need good [[Sunburn and sun protection|UV protection]]. During winter, protect your eyes, and during summer, protect your skin. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.mongolia.travel/ Mongolia Travel] website ==Talk== {{see also|Mongolian phrasebook|Russian phrasebook}} The official language of Mongolia is '''[[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]'''. Mongolian in Mongolia is written using the '''Cyrillic alphabet''', which was introduced around the 1940s. Mongolian Cyrillic uses all the letters used in the [[Russian]] alphabet and has two extra letters: '''Ө''' and '''Ү'''. Very few people know how to read and write Mongolian using the '''traditional Mongolian script''' (written from top to bottom, and still widely used by ethnic Mongols in China), although since the 1990s, it has been gradually regaining popularity. Mongolian belongs to the Mongolic family of languages, which also includes some minority languages of Russia such as Buryat and Kalmyk, and is not known to be related to any other language family. That being said, Mongolian shares a decent amount of words and grammar structures with the Turkic languages (Turkish, Uzbek, Kazakh, etc.) due to historical proximity, so speakers of a Turkic language will have a somewhat easier time navigating Mongolian. Loanwords from languages such as Sanskrit, [[Russian]], English, and [[Persian]] are common and are used in everyday conversations. Mongolian is widely regarded as a very difficult language for an English-speaker to learn. It is an agglutinative language that makes extensive use of suffixing, makes use of nine grammatical cases, and has a number of pronunciation rules and differences. Don't let this intimidate you, though; Mongolians will appreciate your efforts to speak their language, even if your knowledge of it is rudimentary. If you speak Japanese, Korean, Manchu or a Turkic language, some aspects of Mongolian grammar will be familiar to you. '''[[Kazakh phrasebook|Kazakh]]''' is spoken in the westernmost province of the country and by the small but growing population of ethnic Kazakhs living in Ulaanbaatar. Due to Mongolia's longstanding alliance with the [[Soviet Union]] (and [[Russia]] since the fall of the Soviet Union), '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' is spoken by many older Mongolians, although proficiency drops drastically outside Ulaanbaatar. '''English''' is the most popular foreign language among younger Mongolians, and is widely taught in schools. Outside the capital, little of it is spoken. ==Get in== Historically, Mongolia had a reputation for being a very difficult country to visit. Until the mid-1990s, you had to solicit an invitation letter from someone living in Mongolia to visit Mongolia. Lately, the visa rules have been relaxed and most people can enter the country without a visa. The Mongolian government declared the 2023-2024 tourist season the "Year of Mongolia", relaxing visa requirements for many countries, including all major Western nations. Whether this will become a permanent change is yet to be seen. ===Entry requirements=== [[File:New visa policy of Mongolia 2023.png|thumb|375px|Visa policy of Mongolia {{legend|#ed1c24|Mongolia}} {{legend|#22b14c|Visa-free (90 days)}} {{legend|#79d343|Visa-free (30 days)}} {{legend|#b5e61d|Visa-free (21 days)}} {{legend|#ffb583|Visa-free (14 days)}} {{legend|#ffd000|Visa on arrival (30 days)}} {{legend|#a1d4b0|eVisa (30 days)}} {{legend|#ababab|Visa required in advance}}]] Citizens of [https://en.consul.mn/visa/c/83 the following countries/territories]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} can enter Mongolia '''visa-free''': *'''For up to 90 days:''' [[Argentina]], [[Belarus]], [[Brazil]], [[Chile]], [[Ecuador]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Kyrgyzstan]], [[Macau]], [[Peru]], [[Serbia]], [[South Korea]], [[Ukraine]] (with an "official invitation") and [[United States]] *'''For up to 30 days:''' Citizens of [[Canada]], [[Germany]], [[Israel]], [[Japan]], [[Laos]], [[Malaysia]], [[Russia]], [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], [[Turkey]], [[Uruguay]], and [[Uzbekistan]], as well as the following for tourism until the end of 2025: [[European Union]] member states, [[Australia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Monaco]], [[New Zealand]], [[Norway]], [[Switzerland]], and [[United Kingdom]] *'''For up to 21 days:''' [[Philippines]] *'''For up to 14 days:''' [[Hong Kong]] Everyone else, however, must apply for a visa. Obtaining a visa — by default, the Mongolian authorities issue '''thirty-day visas''' to all tourists — is relatively straightforward and effortless. ==== Applying for a Mongolian visa ==== Although requirements vary from diplomatic post to diplomatic post, you are normally asked to submit the following to obtain a Mongolian visa: * A visa application form * A passport-sized photo * A passport with a validity of more than six months * A copy of your travel itinerary * A copy of your hotel reservation * A copy of your bank statement * A letter of invitation (if you intend to stay longer than 30 days in Mongolia) * A letter of approval from the government (only required if you plan to study, work, or live in Mongolia) Also, it is possible to acquire an expedited visa in a matter of hours at the Mongolian consulate in Erlian, though there is a steep US$50 fee for this service. A similar service is available in the Mongolian consulate in the Russian city of [[Irkutsk]]. The [http://www.embassyofmongolia.co.uk/ Embassy of Mongolia in the UK website] is useful for updates, with the [http://embassyofmongolia.co.uk/?p=186&lang=en visa page]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offering information on visa applications at the embassy. [http://beijing.mfa.gov.mn/?lang=en The Embassy of Mongolia in China website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} hosts the form you will need to apply for your Mongolian visa in China, although the consulate does have them. To stay more than 30 days, you have to register at the Mongolia Immigration. ===By plane=== [[image:MIAT Boeing 737-800 at ULN.jpg|thumb|MIAT plane in Ulaanbaatar]] Thanks to a booming mining sector, '''Chinggis Khaan International Airport''' ({{IATA|UBN}}) in [[Ulaanbaatar]] is now connected to some major airport hubs in eastern Asia and Istanbul and Frankfurt. Flag carrier [http://www.miat.com/ MIAT Mongolian Airlines]{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operates daily flights (during some peak season - twice a day) from [[Beijing]] and [[Seoul]], twice a week flights from [[Hong Kong]], [[Moscow]] and [[Tokyo]] (during some peak season - from Narita). During peak summer season it increases flight frequencies and operates flights from [[Busan]] and [[Osaka]]. There are branch offices in Berlin, Moscow, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo and Beijing. Mongolia-based [http://www.hunnuair.com/ Hunnu Air] flies 3 times a week from [[Bangkok]] and 5 flights a week from Hong Kong. There are almost daily flights from Seoul on Korean Air as well as other flights through Beijing, and 3 flights a week to [[Istanbul]]. It is also possible to fly to Ulaanbaatar through Tokyo's Narita Airport. ===By train=== [[image:Trans Mongolian Train 01.jpg|thumb|Trans-Mongolian train]] {{main|Trans-Siberian Railway}} The '''Trans-Mongolian Line''' of the legendary [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] links [[Ulaanbaatar]] with [[Moscow]], [[Russia]] and [[Beijing]], [[China]]. The Mongolian line branches from the main Trans-Siberian at [[Ulan-Ude]], so you'll need to break your journey there if coming from points east like [[Vladivostok]]. There is a small water boiler at the end of each train car which dispenses free hot water, so it's a good idea to stock up on instant noodles and tea for the trip. Also, don't expect to encounter any English-speaking staff on the train or in the stations. ====From Russia==== The Trans-Siberian train crosses the Russia/Mongolia border at the town of [[Naushki]], Russia. Trains start from [[Moscow]] or [[Irkutsk]] going to either Ulaanbaatar or Beijing, with several stops on both sides of the border. Between Irkutsk and the border are [[Ulan-Ude]], Naushki, Dozornoe, and Khoit. Between the Russian border and Ulaanbaatar are [[Sühbaatar]], [[Darkhan (city)|Darkhan]], and Zuunkharaa, with possible stops in [[Erdenet]] and Salkhit. ====From China==== [[image:WheelChanging.jpg|thumb|Changing wheels at the Chinese border]] Second class (hard sleeper) costs about US$200 (2011) from [[Beijing]] to [[Ulaanbaatar]], crossing the border at [[Erlian]]/[[Zamiin-Üüd]]. There are two trains a week and the ride takes almost 30 hours, including a mandatory stop of 3-4 hours at Erlian while the train bogies are switched between Russian broad gauge and Chinese standard gauge. You will have to take all your belongings and leave the train for this operation, and will be confined to the waiting area at Erlian station, even if you're inbound to China and have already passed through immigration. You can, however, ask staff for a free ticket that will let you step outside to raid the nearby shops and restaurants for supplies. =====Beijing to the border===== If the [[Beijing]] - [[Ulaanbaatar]] train is sold out, as seems to be common, or you need a more frequent option, you can make your way from Beijing to the border at [[Erlian]] by '''local train''' as described below, and then on to Ulaanbaatar by bus and train. As of March 2011, there are morning flights from Beijing to Erlian out of Capital Airport Terminal 1 costing only ¥160, which is cheaper than the bus. Trains run daily from Beijing to [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]] or [[Hohhot]]. You can change there for a train to the border town of [[Erlian]] near the Mongolian-Chinese border. The K89 leaves Beijing in the morning and arrives at Jining in the evening. Jining has many hotels near the train station and has karaoke bars to keep you entertained while you wait. From Jining to Erlian there is a slow train that leaves in the morning, passes the Great Wall multiple times, and arrives in the early evening. This will take a night longer than getting the sleeper bus as described in "By bus". =====Crossing the border===== Be wary of scams at the border where people in uniform will attempt to sell you "required travel insurance." There is no such thing and you can safely ignore them. You should then cross the border from [[Erlian]] in China to [[Zamiin-Uud]] in Mongolia as described in [[Erlian#To and from Mongolia|Erlian to and from Mongolia]]. Once you have crossed the border, you will need to get from Zamiin-Uud to Ulaanbaatar as described in [[Zamiin-Uud#Get in|Zamiin-Uud get in]]. ===By car=== Many adventurous people drive to Mongolia, usually starting somewhere in Europe. [http://www.theadventurists.com/the-adventures/mongol-rally The Mongol Rally] and [http://mongolia.charityrallies.org/ Mongol Charity Rally]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} sponsor many of them. Driving to Mongolia can be extremely challenging in many respects. Not only are there virtually no roads in the western half of Mongolia, but vehicle registration, import fees and paperwork, visas and everything have to be ready for every country along the way. For those who still wish to make the journey by car, there are 4 land border crossings with Russia and 3 with China. Though it is much more expensive and difficult to drive through, into, or out of China in your own car. :*See '''[[Driving in China]]''' for issues for driving to Mongolia from China. ====From Russia==== The main border is in Altanbulag-Kyakhta ([[Sühbaatar]]), nearest to the capital, is open 24 hours a day. In the far west is the Tsagaannuur-Tashanta crossing in [[Bayan-Olgii]], is open Monday to Saturday 09:00-18:00 and is the most popular with adventure drivers. Also in the west is Borshoo-Khandgait crossing between [[Uvs]] and [[Tuva| Tuva Republic]], is open Monday to Friday 09:00-18:00. In the east, Ereentsav-Solovyovsk crossing near [[Choibalsan]] is open daily 09:00-18:00. ===By bus=== There is a paved road connecting Ulaanbaatar to the Chinese border, and one between UB and Russia. ====From Russia==== *Those interested in saving money can book one-way elektrichka (regional train) tickets from Irkutsk or Ulan Ude to Naushki. In Naushki, one can spend the night in the train resting rooms (komnati otdikha) for US$0.50 per hour. From there, it is possible to take a marshrutka to the land border crossing town of [[Kyakhta]], Russia. Walking across the border is prohibited, but travellers have no problems arranging for Mongolia-bound cars to take them across the border, for either a small fee or free. Upon crossing into Mongolia it is relatively easy to hitchhike, taxi, or bus to [[Sühbaatar]] or UB, as all southbound traffic is headed towards those cities. *From the west, from Russia, it is possible to cross at the land border in Tsagaannuur, Bayan-Olgii. There are daily petrol and wheat-carrying Russian Kamaz trucks headed to Olgii and it is possible to hitchhike to Tsagaannuur or even [[Olgii]]. Regular buses and marshrutkas also operate from the border, though service is unpredictable due to the lack of a schedule. There is also a bus every 10 days between either [[Astana]] or [[Almaty]], [[Kazakhstan]] and Olgii. ====From China==== * Liuliqiao long-distance bus station (六里桥客运主枢纽 or lìu lǐ qiáo kè yùn zhǔ shū nǐu), phone +86 10 8383–1716, address: A1, Liuliqiao Nan Li, Fengtai District. Departure at 16:30. These are supposed to run daily, but may not. You can phone at 10:00 on the morning of departure to see if the bus is running and to reserve a place. * Muxiyuan long-distance bus station (木樨园才华长途汽车站), phone +86 10 6726–7149, location: go to Liujiayao Metro Station and get a cab. Departs at 17:00. * Lizeqiao long-distance bus station (丽泽桥长途汽车站), phone (丽泽桥长途汽车站) Address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东 +86 10 6340–3408, address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东. Location is difficult to get to. Departs at 17:00. From [[Hohhot]] by bus costs 88 Chinese yuan and takes 6-7 hr. There are several daily buses. Once in Erlian, follow the '''Crossing the border''' and '''From the border to Ulaanbaatar''' steps above. Should you be travelling at a busy time (e.g., around Naadam on the 11th and 12th July) and want to be sure of getting tickets for the last leg of the trip in Mongolia, you could take one of the packages from the guesthouses in Beijing. These cost around 570 yuan (July 2009) and include a taxi to the coach station in Beijing, Beijing to [[Erlian]] by sleeper coach, a bed in the hotel in the bus station for a few hours, a bus from Erlian to [[Zamiin-Üüd]] across the border, then soft sleeper overnight from Zamiin-Üüd to [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Purchased separately, the tickets cost about 360 yuan. The Saga guesthouse in Beijing sells these, and although they insist till they're blue in the face that the train is a hard sleeper, it's actually a soft sleeper! ===By bicycle=== At Zamiin-Uud you have to put your bicycle in a car. You are not allowed to cycle through the 3-km-wide border area. Prepare to bargain. They will start at US$100 and more. You should be able to get them down to US$20 or less. If you are lucky and get up early, you might catch a truck. They will take you for free. Usually you have better chances with Mongol drivers, if you want to cross into Mongolia. At Altanbulag you also have to put the bicycle in a car, but prices are reasonable and usually fixed. Enjoy watching your driver smuggle goods in or out of Mongolia. ===By thumb or foot=== The road passes through the border town of [[Zamiin-Üüd]] and continues to Ulaanbaatar. Hitchhiking in Mongolia is not easy and a little bit of money for the driver is expected. There is an average of one car every hour heading into the desert. Rules at the border require that you ride a bus or car across the border, not walk across. However, they do not care how you get there or where you go afterwards. ==Get around== If you plan to travel around the countryside without a guide, take a [[GPS]] and some maps. The "Mongolia Road Atlas" is available in many book shops, it has over 60 pages and covers the whole country: there is a Latin-character version and Cyrillic-character version, in the countryside most people won't understand the Latin version. More detailed maps are available at the Mongolian Government Map Store. These maps are 1:500,000. Also, some other special-purpose maps and a good map of downtown Ulaanbaatar. The map store is on Ih Toiruu St. Go west from the State Department Store on the main street, called Peace, Peace and Friendship, or Ekhtavan Ave., two blocks to the large intersection with traffic lights, turn right (north) and the map store is about halfway along the block. There is an Elba electronic appliance store set back from the street, a yellow and blue building, the next building is a 4-story, Russian-style office building, the map store entrance is on the west side, toward the south end of the building. It lines up with the north wall of the Elba building. Whichever the method of long-distance travel, keep in mind that everything in Mongolia has a tendency to break down. Don't be shocked if part of the suspension breaks and the driver jerry-rigs a carved wooden block in the place of a mount. For more serious breakdowns, it can easily take an entire day or longer for somebody to come along and help, so leave plenty of slack in itineraries. Finally, Mongolians are rather notorious for being late. A bus that is scheduled to leave at 08:00 will probably not be out of the city until almost 11:00. The entirety of the country is public property, and - especially in the winter - drivers will simply peel off the paved roads and chart their own paths to get to a certain destination. Often, many of the destinations are not near any permanent roads, requiring this off-roading to get to them. If driving off-road, take extra care to ensure that you have the proper supplies and knowledge to survive in the event your vehicle breaks down or gets stuck. It is also highly recommended to have a guide who knows the area and/or a strong knowledge of Mongolian with which you can converse with local nomads to inquire where exactly your destination is and how to get to it. ===By plane=== [[image:AeroMongoliaFokker50.jpg|thumb|An AeroMongolia plane]] The easiest way to travel long distance is via one of the domestic airlines: AeroMongolia or Hunnu Air. Almost all flights are between Ulaanbaatar and the Aimag centers. Except for mines in the south Govi and [[Choibalsan]], which use Boeing 737s, most flights use turboprop regional planes. AeroMongolia uses a two-tier price structure, charging foreigners significantly more than locals, while Hunnu has only one price. Other than price, there is little difference between the airlines. Air travel agents, guest houses and hotels can help you to obtain domestic air tickets in Mongolia. *{{listing | name=AeroMongolia | url=http://aeromongolia.mn/ | email=reservation@aeromongolia.mn | address= | lat= | long= | directions=1st floor, Monnis tower, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 11 330373 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-18:00; Sa 10:00-18:00 | price= | content= It is generally cheaper, but uses older planes and charges foreigners double the local rate. }} *{{listing | name=Hunnu Air | url=http://hunnuair.com/ | email=info@hunnuair.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= Chinggis avenue 10-1, Sukhbaatar district, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 7000 1111 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Formerly Mongolian Airlines. }} ===By train=== There is only one railway company in Mongolia, owned by the Russian and Mongolian governments, "Mongolian Railway". It is probably the best way to experience something of the communist time, even if it has evolved a bit since then. Ulaanbaatar railway agents more often consider the passenger as a potential rulebreaker than as a client. The railway network is poor, consisting mainly of the Irkutsk-Ulaanbaatar-Beijing Trans-Mongolian way with a few extensions. Trains are extremely slow. They usually leave on time, and arrive on time or less than 20 minutes late. Intercity bus routes on the roughly parallel paved roads will get you there much faster. The local trains stop at many small stations in the countryside. For example, there is the small town of Batsumber, located about 34 km north of Ulaanbaatar (as the crow flies), longer on the train. Take your camping gear and hike to the mountains about 10 km east of the town. There are two streams flowing west out of the mountains, hike and camp along the streams. There is a small restaurant, and food shops in the town. ====Train tickets==== It's possible to pay for train tickets by credit card. For online booking of train tickets, go to the [https://eticket.ubtz.mn/ official website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (an English version is available, but not all the information is translated). The website is not the most user-friendly, but fortunately [http://wandersimply.com/how-to-buy-mongolian-train-tickets-online/ Wander Simply] has a good write-up on how to navigate the site and buy tickets. Alternatively, contact the company [http://www.traintomongolia.com Train to Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to buy tickets at a commission. You pay an extra fee if you book in advance, and also an extra fee if you buy it in the train, which is the only possibility left if there are less than 10 minutes left before the train departure. Your passport is required to buy a ticket, but you can buy several people's tickets with one passport. There are 3 classes: "coupé", "sleeping", and "public" (translated into English by "economic" by the company). "Coupé" is the only one with doors. In "public" it's possible to have to spend the night sitting and even with little space on crowded days. The tickets are numbered, but, when the seats are exhausted, the company overbooks public seats with tickets numbered "0", at the same price. The "public" seats tickets are much cheaper (and much slower) than the coach, minivan and taxi competitors. In a coupé at night, you'll be charged for compulsory additional bed sheets inside the train. ====Inside a train==== You will be proposed drinks and Mongolian food inside the train, both by official sellers of the company and, at the big stations with long stops, by private people entering the train for that purpose. There are many conductors. Don't expect them to speak anything other than Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. Theft is rare on Mongolian trains, but keeping an eye on your belongings is generally a good idea. There are police on every train. On a long trip, your ticket will be checked repeatedly, and you'll be awakened throughout the night for that. However, nobody will wake you if you have to get off during the trip, but if you get off at the terminus, you'll be awakened, even more than one hour before arrival, depending on the agent. The '''train toilets''' close 30 minutes before the terminus, and sometimes even before that. ===By bus=== [[File:Juulchin Tourism Corp 12.JPG|thumb|Tourist bus in the [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]]] Travelling by local bus is also an option, though these buses tend to only connect the provincial capital with UB, and it is quite difficult to find any public transportation linking one provincial capital with another. Lately the bus situation has improved. Most cities and towns are referred to in two ways, their name or the name of the Aimag (province) or Soum (county), e.g. Dornod or Dornod Aimag or Choibalsan (the actual city name). Most buses have their destination on a card in the front window. If you have either name written down in Mongolian Cyrillic, show it to the drivers or helpers and they will get you on the right bus. There are two types of buses, microvans and large buses (some large buses are old Russian types and some are modern western types), depending on the road. The large buses run on schedule, but the micro-buses are much more lax. In Ulaanbaatar, there are two bus stations, one on the west near the Dragon Shopping Center and one on the East near the Botanical Gardens. Both stations are on Peace Avenue on opposite sides of the city. Multiple buses run between them. Get local to write directions. For the large buses buy your tickets the day before. In the Aimag centres, there will be service to Ulaanbaatar and to local soums (small county seats) and usually the next Aimag center. However, all locations may not be available at one location. Ask for help from the locals. For example, in Ondorkhaan, the capital of Khentii Province, there is a bus service between Ondorkhaan and UB from a central bus station, however the through buses going to/from UB to Dornod and Sukhbaatar Aimags (Choybalsan and Baruun-Urt) will stop at a gas station on the north side of the city. ====Bus tickets==== Tickets are sold in the station, not in the coach. Don't expect any cashier, driver or conductor to speak anything but Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. It's not possible to pay by credit card. Your passport is required to buy a ticket. If you have a luggage exceeding the standard (written in your ticket) in weight or size, you'll be asked for an extra fee by the conductor. You can negotiate this one. ====Inside a bus==== On some routes, the driver and the conductor illegally add extra passengers and pocket the cash. They might even try to make 3 people sit on 2 seats, for instance: you can protest in such a case. Your ticket gives you the right to a full seat and this is what you get in most coaches. The coach will usually stop for a rather quick lunch or dinner at a local snackshop or canteen. ===By minivan=== Public countryside taxis and minivans, often called purgon or mekr, offer more destinations than coaches and many more than train, especially between provinces. They are more dangerous than coaches and trains, and always overloaded. Most drivers don't respect the traffic rules. Countryside taxis and minivans leave when full. They always say they will go "now" ("odo") despite often departing hours later. See how many people are already sitting inside the vehicle to have an idea of how long you'll wait. Drivers also usually promise to pick up additional passengers and cargo before leaving town. ===By chartered jeep=== [[image:Mongol cable ferry.jpg|thumb|River ferry in Hovsgol]] It is also possible to charter a Jeep and driver for private use. Prices are typically negotiated by the kilometre. While far more expensive than sharing a ride with the locals, this means of transport is considerably more convenient and allows you to visit more remote sites. It can also be quite convenient to hire a guide to use during the length of your stay. Doing so can allow you to travel without worrying about taxi drivers overcharging by up to 10x for being a foreigner. ===By car=== One of the most convenient ways to get around is by car. This isn't to say that it's completely safe, however. Road accidents are very common in Mongolia, largely because of reckless driving habits. Drivers do not obey traffic rules and speeding is common. Many cars are in poor condition and not all of them are fitted with seat belts. The road network is narrow and generally in poor condition. Avoid driving at night, as most roads are unlit and may have obstacles and potholes. ===By taxi=== In the cities, taxis should charge about 1500&nbsp;₮ per km. The drivers will set their trip meter and charge accordingly. ===By horse=== For local travel, horse-back is a good option. Mongolians ride on wooden saddles, so if you value your buttocks it's probably a good idea to pick up a leather, Russian saddle in UB. ===By foot=== Walking is another great alternative. Since camping is possible anywhere, resting is never a problem. Wherever there is water, there are nomads, and if you stick to the major dirt roads you will encounter plenty of guanz, which can provide huge cheap meals to keep you going. Adopting the Mongolian style of sleeping outdoors is also an option: wrap yourself in wool blankets and then cover yourself with a Russian raincoat (essentially a tarpaulin in the form of a trench coat), and simply plop yourself down on the ground. One night sleeping this way gives a whole new appreciation for the wonders of sleeping bags and bivvy sacks/tents. ==See== [[image:Gandan Monastery 10.JPG|thumb|Monk at the Gandan Monastery]] Mongolia is a big country that has been beyond the reach of travellers and the normal trappings of civilization until the 21st century. Even today it can be difficult to travel between the few places that 'exist'. There is little noteworthy architecture in the country. Except for the short-lived capital of the Mongol Empire at '''[[Karakorum]] (Kharkhorin)''', the descendants of Genghis Khan left little evidence of their power inside their native homeland. Genghis Khan, who leveled cities from the Yellow Sea to the Caspian, was said to have only built one permanent building during his life, a warehouse to store his stupendous amount of loot. ====Archaeology==== [[File:BuddhaErdeneZuuMonasteryMongolia.JPG|thumb|Buddha at Erdene Zuu]] Though this structure no longer exists, the capital built by his son, Ögedei, does, as do countless artifacts in the National Museum in [[Ulaanbaatar]], and thousands of stone monuments and drawings spread throughout the country, some dating back thousands of years. After the gradual disintegration of the Mongol Empire, many Tibetan Buddhist monasteries were built, providing the most visible signs of Mongolia's history. Today only a few still stand after Stalinist religious purges. Of particular note is the '''[[Northern Mongolia|Amarbaysgalant Monastery]]''' in Selenge, the '''Erdene Zuu Monastery''' in Kharkhorin, and '''Gandan Monastery''' in Ulaanbaatar, all active religious sites with large numbers of resident lamas. During the communist era, the Soviets helped establish large modern cities and modern industries, which aren't very pretty, but are of some interest, particularly the biggest open-pit copper mine in Asia at [[Erdenet]]. For a country that prides itself on its nomadic heritage, there are a surprising amount of ruins of stone structures (and even cities) scattered about Mongolia. With the exception of Kharkhorin, practically none of these are anywhere near a paved road, but their isolation makes their grandeur even more impressive. People interested in the ethnogenesis of the Turkic peoples will not want to miss the '''Orkhon Inscriptions''' in the Orkhon Valley (about a 40 minute drive north of Kharkhorin). These two massive stone stelae contain the oldest written Turkic language, and serve as a sort of Rosetta Stone for the reconstruction of both Old Turkic and Proto-Turkic. The Turkish government has funded a nice museum on the site and a paved road from the museum to Kharkhorin, making the inscriptions easily accessible to travellers. =====Monasteries===== Before the religious purges, Mongolia had around 750 monasteries and was a theocracy. Many were destroyed, while some were turned into museums by the communists to display Mongolian art or the opulence of the former religious leaders. Today the '''Choijin Lama Monastery''' and the '''Bogd Khan Winter Palace''' are preserved as museums for the art of the Lamas and the toys of the former king. Other ancient monasteries are slowly reopening and recovering like the Amarbaysalant in Selenge Province or the Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar. Most monasteries today are small, newly built temples in towns that didn't even exist before the purges. =====Museums===== Besides the monastery museums, Ulaanbaatar hosts several interesting and noteworthy museums to see before going off to the countryside. The best one by far is the '''National Museum of Mongolia''' with large collections of artifacts from the Mongol Empire through the Democratic Revolution of 1990. The '''Chinggis Khaan Museum''' in Ulaanbaatar offers an even larger collection, although it only spans prehistory to the Qing Empire. Several other good art museums and lesser history and nature museums also exist in the city if you will be there for an extended time. Outside of the capital, every provincial center also has a small museum usually built by the communists and mostly not updated since they left. These museums are cheap and do have useful displays on local cultures and history. There are also some '''communist-era sites'''. ====Nature==== One thing that does look much the same as it always has is the unspoiled nature of Mongolia. Due to its very low population density, the lowest in the world, it is possible to travel days with only seeing the occasional nomadic herder interrupting endless rolling steppes, the vast [[Gobi]] desert, or the snow-capped Altai Mountains. Up north, Siberian forests surround the 2nd largest freshwater lake in Asia by volume, Hôvsgôl (or "Hövsgöl") lake, in [[Hövsgöl]] province, which is very beautiful. The '''Flaming Cliffs''' near [[Dalanzadgad]] are stunning just to see, but also contain some of the earliest and most important dinosaur discoveries. ====People==== The most memorable part of any trip to Mongolia, regardless of what drew you here, will certainly be the people. Mongolians are incredibly hospitable to guests. No trip here is complete without having dinner or staying the night with '''nomadic herders'''. Around a third of the population still earns a living as semi-nomadic herders living in gers (yurts) on the open steppe. While their diets are not very diverse, consisting of meat, flour, and dairy, they will seek to serve guests a feast of boiled or fried meat and hot milky tea, with traditional entertainments of music, singing, and maybe dance. There is some variation depending on which tribe or region, with Kazakhs near [[Ölgii]] being the most different with different language, diet, and dress, including the practice of '''eagle hunting'''. While the Tuvans have a beautiful, eerie singing style of throat-singing, and the Tsaatan people live isolated lives herding reindeer near Lake Hövsgöl. Then there are the Lama monks who are increasingly common in monasteries and elsewhere, and the '''Shaman priests''', who practice the ancient animist religions of worshiping nature and the earth, and are widely respected in Mongolia. ==Do== [[image:Mongolian honor guard procession.jpg|thumb|Mongolian honor guard]] Experiencing the culture and having a meal or spending the night with a nomadic family are authentic Mongolian experiences. Whether you go just outside of the capital or fly to the far corners of the country, this is the most memorable part of any trip. There are some variations on the experience, depending on the tribal group. The '''[[Trans-Siberian Railway]]''' passes through the country. Also follow the path of [[On the trail of Marco Polo|Marco Polo]] across Europe and Asia into Mongolia to visit the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in [[Karakorum]]. Mongolia is the least densely populated country in the world and has very little development of any kind outside of the capital and a few small towns. There often aren't even roads connecting these towns. This pristine setting means that Mongolia has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Traveling across this vast country is often an adventure in itself with tourists and adventurers alike going by car, motorcycle, bike, horse, camel, or foot. Most often this means camping on the shore of a river or with a nomadic family or in small roadside hotels in provincial towns. Along the way or on one of the many wild rivers and nature preserves, there is great fishing, particularly fly-fishing during the summer. Climbing the mountains in the west is popular as well as photographing the wildlife, flora, or the multitude of birds living or migrating through Mongolia. * Canoe down some of Mongolia's major rivers. * Listen to traditional Mongolian '''throat singing'''. * Visit reindeer herders, such as the Tsaatan Community, which is west of Khovsgol lake. Several tour companies sell tours to visit the reindeer herders living in high alpine mountains. To get there, ride horses from Tsagaannuur or Rinchinlhumbe. You need to get a border permit in UB or Murun before starting the tour. Most licensed tour companies can get the border permit if you provide your travel details in advance. Horse-trekking can be hard and long. But it's worth traveling there. * Local Bonda Lake Camp in Khatgal village near Lake Khovsgol offers fishing, hiking, winter tours, nomad visits, horseback riding, visiting reindeer herders and the Darhad valley. Horse riding, you can discover Lake Khovsgol and its beautiful waters, meet Tsataan (nomadic reindeer herders) living in gers in the north of Khovsgol area. This region is incredibly scenic, perched at 1645 m altitude in green mountains, covered with thick pine forests and lush meadows with grazing yaks and horses, and rich with wildlife: the lake has 9 species of fish and its surroundings are full of sheep, goats, elk and more than 430 species of birds. There are 5 Mongolian tribes nearby: Khalh, Darhad, Buriad, Hotgoid, and Urianhai. The camp has a hot shower, sauna, internet and a restaurant with Mongolian and European meals. *{{do | name=Mountain Climbing | alt= | url= | email= | address=All over Mongolia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Best to climb the highest peaks in July and August | price= | content=While much of the country is rolling steppe, there are several mountain ranges. The Altai Mountains in the west have several peaks of over {{ft|13,000}} up to {{ft|14,201}} in [[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]. The highest mountains have snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and require special equipment and experienced guides. Smaller mountains throughout the country can be hiked in an afternoon, including many surrounding the capital of Ulaanbaatar. }} ===Winter activities=== *{{listing | type=do | name=Join Kazakh eagle hunters on a hunt | alt= | url= | email= | address=In [[Western Mongolia]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=During the cold winter months, the Kazakhs in western Mongolia use eagles to hunt for foxes and hares, which are easier to see against the snow. Freezing temperatures and long days on Mongolian or Kazakh horses discourage most people from attempting this adventure. For those who do, seeing an eagle released from a man's forearm swoop down and kill a fox a mile away is an unforgettable experience. }} *Skiing: There is one ski resort outside of Ulaanbaatar with a ski lift, equipment rentals, instructors, and all the other features of a ski resort. The lift may be slow, and the runs a bit hard, but it does provide good entertainment for those visiting UB during the long, cold winter months. For more adventurous types, western Mongolia's large mountain ranges provide great '''back-country skiing'''. The spring months of April and May get the most snow and make the best skiing. Either join a tour or lug all of your own equipment. There aren't any ski shops in the nearby villages. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mongolian tögrög | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;₮ | date=January 2025 | USD=3,600 | EUR=3,550 | GBP=4,300 | CNY= | RUB=3,362 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mnt-mongolian-tughrik/ XE.com] }} The Mongolian currency is the '''tögrög''' (also spelled "tugrik", "tugrug" etc.; Mongol: төгрөг), denoted by the sign "'''₮'''" (ISO international currency code: '''MNT'''). You may also see the notations "tg" and "T". Banknote denominations in circulation are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000&nbsp;₮. It is virtually impossible to exchange tögrög outside the country, so don't exchange too much. US dollars are widely accepted in the tourist industry, especially for larger payments (hotels, guides, etc.), but are not usable in the countryside. ===Tipping=== In Mongolia tipping is rarely expected except in tourism-related services like tour guides. Waiters, taxis, and hotel attendants do not expect tips. Sometimes taxis will attempt to overcharge you by refusing to give change back, but this has nothing to do with gratuity. Some nicer restaurants and hotels in the capital do often add fees to the bill for service, especially for larger groups. ===Shopping=== *Mongolian cashmere is known as the best in the world, so consider buying garments and blankets from one of the many stores selling cashmere products. *Mongolia is famous for its copper mines Erdenet and Oyu Tolgoi. A copper bookmark might make an ideal souvenir and you can easily find this US$1 metal souvenir in Ulaanbaatar souvenir shops. *'''Kazakh embroideries''' made in [[Ölgii]] using traditional Kazakh designs are sold in many gift shops in Ulaanbaatar. *'''Paintings''' by local artists are excellent buys in Mongolia. *You can find '''felt poker-work''' in [[Erdenet]]. *It is illegal to take '''antiques''' out of the country without a special permit. *The huge open-air market, '''Narantuul''' ("The Black Market") in Ulaanbaatar offers the lowest prices on just about anything you could want. Beware of the many pickpockets and even attackers there. This can be a great place to get a good pair of ''riding boots''. You can opt for a variety of Mongolian styles, from fancy to the more practical, or even get a good set of Russian-style boots. *Mongolia is justly famous for its [[carpets]]. [[Erdenet]] is home to Mongolia's largest carpet factory, also making and selling slippers made of carpet, though its carpets are made by machine, not traditional methods. For traditional carpets, visit a local market, including the famous Black Market in [[Ulaanbaatar]]. ===Grocery shopping=== ''Prices as of April 2018:'' * Bread (1 loaf) - 1,600 ₮ * Bottled water (0.5 liter) - 600 ₮ * Beef (1kg) - 9,500 ₮ * Yogurt (0.45kg) - 1,600 ₮ * Beer (0.5 liter) - 2,000 ₮ to 5,000 ₮ * Milk (1 liter) - 2,350 ₮ * Potato (1kg) - 1,050 ₮ * Onion (1kg) - 1,550 ₮ * Coffee (0.8kg) - 12,000 ₮ * Banana (1kg) - 4,500 ₮ * Grape (1kg) - 11,000 ₮ * Apple juice (2 liters) - 5,000 ₮ * Eggs (10) - 4,450 ₮ ==Eat== {{infobox|Un-Mongolian barbecue|Boiled mutton? Aren't Mongolians famous for barbecue? Sadly, no: "Mongolian BBQ" was invented in Taiwan in the 1970s. Due to tourist demand, there is one Mongolian BBQ place in Ulaanbaatar now, but it's run by an American!}} [[File:Dishes_of_Mongolian_cuisine.jpg|thumb|The Mongolian trifecta: ''khuushuur'' fried dumplings on the left, ''buuz'' steamed dumplings on the right, and pieces of boiled mutton on top]] Anywhere you find people in Mongolia, you will also smell the scent of '''boiled mutton''', the principal dish of Mongolia. A typical herder in the countryside will eat little else, flavored only with a little salt. Vegetables and spices are very limited, and even flour may be in short supply, since the climate is poorly suited to agriculture. Restaurants, canteens and tea shops in Mongolia also have a mutton-centric menu, revolving around three dishes: * ''buuz'' (бууз) &mdash; Steamed dumplings stuffed with meat, often called the national dish of Mongolia. Derived from the Chinese ''baozi''. A set of 6 usually costs 1,200-2,000&nbsp;₮. * ''khuushuur'' (хуушууp) &mdash; Deep-fried stuffed flatbread with meat and onion, originally a festive dish but now ubiquitous. 3 or 4 will fill you up. * ''tsuivan'' (цуйван) &mdash; Fried noodles with meat and a few token vegetables, often served with ketchup on the side. Around 2,000-4,000&nbsp;₮ a serve. Horse, yak and beef are also eaten, and dairy products like ''byaslag'' (бяслаг), a mild, paneer-like fresh cheese, and ''öröm'' (өрөм), clotted cream, are also common. ''Aaruul'' (ааруул) dried curds are also a common snack: these are typically rock hard and have to be eaten by ''slowly'' dissolving them in your mouth, which eventually turns them into lumps of cheesy putty. [[File:Boodog made from a marmot.JPG|thumb|Preparing a marmot as ''boodog'']] For special occasions, ''boodog'' (боодог) or goat/marmot barbecue, is particularly worth experiencing. For about 15,000-20,000&nbsp;₮, a nomad will head out with his gun, shoot a marmot or a goat, and then cook it for you without a pot: the meat, vegetables, water and stones are cooked inside the skin of the animal. They skin it very carefully, and then tie off the holes at the legs and back side, put the food and hot stones inside, tie off the throat, and let it cook for about 30 minutes. Though rare, with only 692 cases of marmot plague recorded between 1928 to 2018, the Tarbagan marmot is known to carry the bubonic plague, but fatal cases tend to be those that partake in the consumption of raw marmot organs that are sometimes eatern separately from the ''boodog.'' Along the same lines is ''khorkhog'' (xopxoг), made of mutton, which is prepared like so: build a fire; toss stones into fire until red hot; place water, hot stones, onions, potatoes, carrots, and, finally, mutton chops, into a large vacuum-sealed kettle; let the kettle simmer over a fire for 30-60 minutes; open kettle carefully, as the top will inevitably explode, sending hot juices flying everywhere; once the kettle is opened, and all injuries have been tended to, eat contents of kettle, including the salty broth. This cooking method makes mutton taste tender and juicy, like slow-roasted turkey. Ask your guide if he or she can arrange one (but only during summer). ===Where to eat=== Ulaanbaatar has a cosmopolitan scene with plenty of international options, ranging from fine dining at the Kempinski to fast-food dumplings at [https://www.khaanbuuz.mn/ Khaan Buuz], the country's answer to McDonalds. The many Korean restaurants in particular are worth exploring. It is also the only place in the country where vegetarians can fairly easily find food, although tour agents can usually arrange vegetarian meals elsewhere with sufficient notice. In the countryside, the only dining option is often the ''guanz'' (гуанз), a roadside ''ger'' tent offering a simple menu, often only ''tsuivan'' noodles and salted milk tea. ==Drink== [[File:Mongolia 105.JPG|thumb|A milk pail in Mongolia]] The most common drink in Mongolia is '''salted milk tea''' (сүүтэй цай ''süütei tsai''), which is essentially a cup of boiled milk and water, sometimes with a couple pieces of tea leaf and/or a pinch of salt thrown in for good measure. A cup of this and a bowl of dried snacks is the first thing served when you visit a ''ger'', and it accompanies food at restaurants as well. The tea can be bulked up into a meal by adding in some toasted millet, rice, meat or bansh. You might want to build up your tolerance by drinking lots of milk in preparation for your stay because they don't drink much else, except perhaps boiled water if you specially request it during a longer stay. Also, most traditional nomadic foods such as dried yogurt and the like require acclimatization to milk as well. Cold drinks don't actually exist in the countryside (unless you intend to drink straight out of a river, generally not recommended). [[File:Homemade airag in Mongolia.jpg|thumb|A glass of homemade ''airag'', prepared in the blue plastic barrel in the background]] The national drink, though, is '''''airag''''' (айраг). Essentially the same as the Central Asian ''kumiss'', this is a summer seasonal drink made from fermented mare's milk, and is certainly an acquired taste. The alcohol content is less than that of beer, but can have noticeable effects. Be careful, if you aren't accustomed to drinking sour milk products, the first time might give you diarrhea as your stomach gets accustomed to it. This should only happen the first time though. Once you've completed the ritual, your digestive system shouldn't complain again. There are numerous ways to describe the taste, from bile-like to a mixture of lemonade and sour cream. The texture can also be offsetting to some people since it can be slightly gritty. It is worth keeping in mind that Airag is milk and a source of nutrients. After a day of riding it can actually be quite refreshing, once acquiring a taste for it. ''Airag'' is "microbrewed" locally, not commercially produced, but in season it's sold at stands including Gandantegchinlen Monastery and at the West Market in Ulaanbaatar. Much stronger than ''airag'' is '''''arkhi''''' (архи), a strong liquor distilled from milk and often called "milk vodka". Like vodka, the taste is quite neutral, and after you have your first shot of the vodka you won't feel anything, but a few minutes later it will get to your head. Most people in Mongolia usually drink this for medical reasons. First you heat up the vodka then put in a little bit of special oil which is also made from milk. Careful don't overheat it, you might get blind. Mongolians call their national vodka ''nermel arkhi'' ("distilled vodka") or ''changa yum'' ("tight stuff"). Many Russian-style vodkas are sold throughout the country. The best are '''Chinggis Khaan vodka''', '''Soyombo''' and '''Golden Chinggis'''. In Ulaanbaatar you can find most Western beers, from Miller to Heineken. They sell Budweiser -- not American Bud but the [[Czech Republic|Czech]] Budweiser. Local beer, such as Chingis, Gem Grand, Borgio or Sengur is fine. ==Sleep== Some '''western-style accommodation''' is available in [[Ulaanbaatar]], but it goes for western prices. There are a few nice guest houses in UB for less than US$10 per night (even as cheap as 3,000&nbsp;₮ if you're willing to share a room), but they are crowded during the tourist season and hard to get into. Out in the countryside, most of the hotels are rundown Soviet-era leftovers. A better option is tourist ''ger'', set up by entrepreneurial locals. Staying at one of these costs about ₮5000 per person per night. They often include breakfast and dinner as well. When staying in one of these guest ger, the usual gift-giving customs can be skipped. Finally, there are also '''ger-camps'''. Set up by tour companies, they do occasionally rent out space to independent travellers. Unfortunately, they tend to be both expensive (US$35 per person per night with 3 meals) and out of the way. To stay at a ger camp, use the online booking portals [https://ihotel.mn/ iHotel] and [http://www.mongoliagercamps.net Mongolian Ger Camps Network]. Except for the cities and larger towns, all land is publicly owned. This means you can '''pitch a tent''' pretty much anywhere. Courtesy dictates that you keep your distance from existing nomad encampments. Common sense dictates that you don't pitch a tent in the middle of or too close to a road. Nowadays, there are more than 300 hotels in Mongolia and these are graded between 1 and 5 stars. Hotels holding 3 stars or more are for tourist service and must obtain permission in order to operate. The Accommodation Grading Committee, consisting of the Ministry, travel industry associations and tourism researchers, rate an accommodation according to Mongolian standards. ==Learn== There are some '''language schools''' in the capital. The two most known to foreigners are Bridge School and Friends School. Both offer group study classes and individual tutors. Also, the [http://www.num.edu.mn/en/ National University of Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offers courses. It usually takes westerners about 9 to 18 months before they acquire good conversational abilities in Mongolian. Speakers of Korean, Japanese, and Turkic languages, like Turkish and Kazakh, tend to learn more quickly due to the similarities in grammatical structure. A Mongolian language school with a website is [http://mongolianlanguage.mn '''Nomiin Ger''']. ==Work== It can be difficult to find employment as a foreigner in Mongolia. Obtaining a work permit requires being sponsored by a Mongolian company and every company has a strict quota on the number of foreign nationals they may employ. Foreign nationals are not allowed to comprise more than 20% of a Mongolian company's workforce. This is as good as saying that the Mongolian government is reluctant to let foreigner workers compete with Mongolians. There is a huge demand for native English speakers as English teachers. Anyone who is interested in [[teaching English]] will have no trouble getting employment and a work visa through a school or organization. However, the pay is generally lower than in other countries. Though it'll usually be just enough for room and board plus a little extra. Local English-language media hire native speakers as editors, proof-readers and photojournalists. Volunteer work is available teaching English, assisting with charity work and joining archaeological digs. These jobs are easy to find and very rewarding. ==Stay safe== [[File:Sunset in Ulaanbaatar (6216619493).jpg|thumb|Sunset in Ulaanbaatar]] Mongolia is mostly a safe country to visit, but take care in nights and when alcohol is involved, and if venturing out away from shelter with risks of harsh weather. Women should be aware of problems common in conservative regions. [[Aggressive dogs]] may run in packs. Be wary of them since they are not likely to be as tame as domestic dogs elsewhere. Most fenced yards and gers have a guard dog that is usually all bark and no bite, though it is advised to make it aware of you so as to not surprise it, and carry a rock in case it does charge you. Manhole covers — or more precisely, the lack of such covers — is a surprisingly common cause of injuries among foreigners and (especially drunk) tourists. In smaller cities and outlying areas of the capital, there are many missing or poorly placed covers. Avoid stepping on any manhole and pay attention to where you walk. ===Crime and harassment=== Apart from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia is generally a safe place to travel. However, incidents of [[pickpockets|pickpocketing]] and bag slashing have occurred, so always keep your personal belongings in a safe place (money belts are highly recommended), especially in crowded areas or in places where your attention is diverted. Notorious places for theft are the Black Market (bazaar), the railway station and crowded bus stops. Unfortunately, xenophobia and violence towards foreigners is common. Alcoholism is a huge social problem and Mongolia has the highest rate of liver cancer in the world<!--according to www.wcrf.org and most other reputable sources-->. Do not acknowledge or approach any Mongolian man under the influence of alcohol. Many foreigners who go to bars and clubs at night report assault and general aggression. Mongolians are quite open people and tend to be curious and ask many questions just to be friendly. Try to answer diplomatically, and vaguely, especially relating to any perceived negative aspect of Mongolia. Violent crime is also common outside the capital city (Darkhan especially), so caution is required at night. In particular, dark or deserted alleys and streets should be avoided. Generally, if walking past 22:00, avoid people if at all possible. Mongolians can be very friendly, but their emotions and motives can change quite quickly. Someone who may genuinely just want to have a couple drinks with you may suddenly become aggressive regardless of your respect and polite actions. Corruption is a huge problem in Mongolia, and locals are convinced that the police are not to be trusted. There are small bands of Mongolian ultra-nationalist thugs that style themselves as neo-Nazis and have assaulted foreigners including whites, blacks, and particularly, Chinese. They are especially provoked by foreigner interaction with Mongolian women. They are mostly found in the capital, especially in the cheaper bars and nightclubs. Lone or female travelers need to exercise a higher degree of awareness of their surroundings, as getting groped in the chest or behind is not uncommon. Some actions like dancing close to a man will be seen as an open invitation, as Mongolians generally don't dance this way. === Weather conditions === Perhaps the biggest danger in Mongolia is the extreme weather. Owing to its large size, high elevation, proximity to [[Siberia]] in Russia, and its landlocked geography, Mongolian winters are incredibly harsh and temperatures can fall as low as -40° Celsius. That's why [[Ulaanbaatar]] is often dubbed the coldest capital city in the world. When visiting Mongolia in the winter, layer every article of clothing you own and '''do not''' walk around too much in the open. Frostbite is a real risk, and freezing to death is a possibility. If you are unprepared to deal with such weather conditions, visit Mongolia during the summer. === Driving === Driving in Mongolia can be dangerous, especially for those who are not used to driving in developing countries. Roads outside the capital tend to be in poor condition, and incredibly harsh weather makes things all the more difficult. In the capital, motorists can be aggressive and drunk driving is common. Take care when crossing roads or busy intersections. If you have little to no knowledge of Mongolian roads and driving around in isolated areas, it is '''strongly recommended''' that you do not drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Outside the capital, help is incredibly limited and you can get lost if you don't know what you're doing. If you must drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]], consider informing a trusted local about your plans. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Air pollution in ulaanbaatar.jpg|thumb|Air pollution in Ulaanbaatar]] * Nomads' dogs may have '''rabies'''. As a precaution, consider having a rabies shot before coming. * Marmots should not be eaten at certain times of the year because they can carry '''bubonic plague'''. That said, the disease is carried by the marmot's fleas so the afflicted tend to be fur traders, and marmot is not a mainstream dish even in Mongolia. * Hepatitis and tuberculosis are common throughout Mongolia. * '''[[Tap water]]''' is unsafe to drink. === Pollution === [[Ulaanbaatar]] has polluted air, largely due to pervasive coal-burning for domestic heating. If you suffer from a respiratory disease and plan to visit Mongolia in winter, consult a medical professional for advice. ==Respect== [[File:Jurte in der Mongolei.JPG|thumb|A common sight in the Mongolian countryside. If you have been invited to go inside one, accept it.]] Compared to other countries in Asia, Mongolians are generally straightforward. Expect someone to tell you exactly what they think and feel. Anti-China sentiment is high in Mongolia due to historiographical and cultural disputes, and because China is seen by Mongolians as a colonial oppressor. As such, refrain from wearing anything associated with China, and refrain from talking about China. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia is referred to as "southern Mongolia" by most Mongolians. Many Mongolians consider it to be Mongolian territory under Chinese occupation. Mongols traditionally live on the steppes, breeding horses, just like their ancestor Genghis Khan. Not surprisingly, following Western pleasantries will mostly not have the intended effect in Mongolia. Instead, try to follow local good manners. Always receive items with the '''right hand''', palm facing up. Drink from the right hand with the palm up as well. It is very rude to refuse a gift. If offered a plate of hospitality munchies, take at least a small nibble from something. Never point at anyone with your index finger since it implies disrespect. Whenever you approach a nomadic family, or enter a ger, you will, without knowing, break one or several of the many traditional, religious and superstitious customs. If you do become confused, don't panic, minor indiscretions will be tolerated and forgiven. The following do's and don'ts will help avoid offending anyone. === What to do=== * Say hello (sain bainuu) upon arriving (but repeating it when you see the same person is considered strange) * Take at least a sip, or a nibble, of the delicacies offered. * Pick up everything with an open hand, with your palm facing upwards. * Hold a cup by the bottom, and not by the top rim. * If by accident you tap someone's foot with yours, immediately shake hands with them (failing to do so will be seen as an insult). * Exchange pleasantries and engage in some small talk before asking someone for something. * Discuss one's family and the weather. In nomadic areas, asking about a nomad's animals is customary. * Discuss where you're from and what you're doing in Mongolia/the place you're visiting. * Show respect to elders and figures of authority. === What not to do === * Lean against a support column * Whistle inside a ger * Stand on, or lean over, the threshold * Stamp out a fire, or put water or any rubbish on it (fire is sacred to Mongolians) * Walk in front of an older person; or turn your back to the altar, or religious objects (except when leaving) * Take food from a communal plate with your left hand * Touch other people's hats * Do not have a long conversation in your own language in front of your hosts; make an effort to include your hosts. * Do not reject an invitation to visit a ger; hospitality is a cornerstone in the nomadic parts of Mongolia and outright rejecting an invitation will seriously offend the nomads. * Refuse food and drink offered by your hosts; as is the case in many Asian cultures, it is ''very rude'' to do this in Mongolia and shows no respect to your hosts. * Not finishing the food that has been offered to you; as is the case in many Asian cultures, wasting food is ''frowned upon''. * Urinate in lakes or bodies of water; water is considered sacred and holy in Mongolia. * Speak negatively about Genghis Khan. Most Mongolians revere him, and he is regarded as a national hero and the father of their nation. ==Connect== '''Internet cafés''' are less common than they were, but nicer restaurants provide Wi-Fi in the capital. The postal service is slow and most people have a PO Box if they want to get anything. It is possible to buy phone cards that can be used to call abroad very cheaply from domestic phones, but not all phones can do this. (You can ask for MiCom or MobiCom cards). In the countryside, cell phone carriers cover random villages. Between Mobicom, Unitel, and GMobile, all villages or Soum centers are covered. Internet cafés are plentiful in Aimag centers (provincial capitals) now, with all Aimag post offices having one, plus many smaller cafés. There is Internet in some Soums (villages), but this is rare, slow, and prone to frequent outages. To make local calls in Ulaanbaatar, use a phone of one of the many entrepreneurs with cellular telephones on the street corners. Expect to pay 150-200&nbsp;₮ per minute (June 2009 prices). ==Go next== ===To [[China]]=== From Ulaanbaatar, there are several options: Firstly, the international train. Tickets are sold in the ticket office in the VIP lounge on the second floor of the international ticket office across the street from the train station. The second option is to board the Hohhot international train and transfer at [[Erlian]] or [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]]. See the travel agency located on the 1st (ground) floor of the international ticket office for details. The third option is to take the daily train to [[Zamiin-Üüd]], Mongolia at the border and take a bus or jeep to China, then go to the bus or train station in [[Erlian]], China. ===To [[Russia]]=== There are buses and trains to [[Ulan Ude]], from where you can explore the [[Lake Baikal]] region or board the [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] in either direction. {{isPartOf|East_Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|47|104|zoom=5}} 5v68s2rbgl7c6mrgluai1raquv60zj2 5091319 5091317 2025-07-11T10:28:44Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091319 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mongolian_landscape_banner.jpg|disambig=yes}} '''Mongolia''' ([[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]: Монгол улс, Traditional Mongolian: [[File:Monggol_ulus.svg|40px]]) has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Its vast and majestic emptiness is the country's enduring appeal: it brings the traveller into a close communion with nature and its nomadic inhabitants. It is one of the last places on earth where nomadic life lives on. The most memorable part of a trip to Mongolia will be its hospitable people. Mongolian culture has much in common with the cultures of [[Central Asia]]. Mongolia offers great opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing, fishing and photography. Traveling across this huge country is often an adventure in itself. ==Regions== The country can be categorised into five regions based on culture and geography. These regions are further divided into 21 provinces (aimags) and one provincial municipality. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Mongolia regions map.png | regionmaptext=Mongolia regions | regionmapsize=450px | region1name=[[Central Mongolia]] | region1color=#72b970 | region1description=Includes [[Ulaanbaatar]] and the popular tourist region of [[Arkhangai]]. | region2name=[[Eastern Mongolia]] | region2color=#c16161 | region2description=The birthplace of Genghis Khan and heart of the Mongolian steppe. | region3name=[[Gobi]] | region3color=#d0c56c | region3description=As the name implies, home to the immense Gobi Desert. | region4name=[[Northern Mongolia]] | region4color=#7db1de | region4description=Contains many of Mongolia's forests and the massive [[Lake Khövsgöl]]. | region5name=[[Western Mongolia]] | region5color=#a77da5 | region5description=Home of Lake Uvs Nuur and Tavan Bogd Mountains, is also the most diverse region with a dozen different tribes including the Kazakhs. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#72b970|title=[[Central Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207809,Q234713,Q276195,Q23430}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c16161|title=[[Eastern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207795,Q239040,Q244804}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d0c56c|title=[[Gobi]]|wikidata=Q276200,Q213272,Q211835,Q192945,Q236333,Q235579}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#7db1de|title=[[Northern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q209774,Q18827,Q244788,Q234710,Q234680}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a77da5|title=[[Western Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q191792,Q194098,Q192942,Q167764}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|46.46|103.71|zoom=4|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ulaanbaatar]]|url=|lat=47.92|long=106.92|wikidata=Q23430}} (''Ulan Bator'', [[Mongolian]]: '''Улаанбаатар''') – the capital city and starting point for most travel in this country. Half the population lives here. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Choibalsan]]|url=|lat=48.078333|long=114.535|wikidata=Q318245}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чойбалсан''') – large industrial city in the east *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Erdenet]]|url=|lat=49.027778|long=104.044444|wikidata=Q230628}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Эрдэнэт''') – Mongolia's second largest city and home to one of the world's biggest copper mines and a famous carpet factory *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hovd]]|url=|lat=48.004167|long=91.640556|wikidata=Q731256}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Ховд''') – a historic city at the crossroads of traditional Mongol and Kazakh culture *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Karakorum]]|url=|lat=47.210278|long=102.847778|wikidata=Q62677}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Хархорум''') – the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, established by Genghis' son Ogedei *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Mörön]]|url=|lat=49.635556|long=100.155556|wikidata=Q572951}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Мөрөн''') – a stopover for those visiting [[Hövsgöl]] province, it has several museums and a large collection of deer stones outside of town *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ölgii]]|url=|lat= 48.968333|long=89.968611|wikidata=Q297060}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Өлгий''') – a town in Mongolia's far western corner, the starting point for visiting Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Tsambagarav National Park and the eagle hunters who live *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Öndörkhaan|Chinggis]]|url=|lat=47.323333|long=110.661111}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чингис''') – near the birthplace (and possible burial site) of Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tsetserleg]]|url=|lat=47.476944|long=101.450278|wikidata=Q529834}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Цэцэрлэг''') – the most pleasant of Mongolia's provincial capitals sits in a beautiful forested valley in the Khangay mountains ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khogno Khan National Park]]|wikidata=Q93828284}} — a beautiful, and calm area boasting cultural sites such as Kharkhorin, the capital of the Mongolian Empire after Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]|lat=48.55|long=88.616667|wikidata=Q932232}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Алтай Таван богд байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — the tallest mountain and largest glacier in Mongolia, with Kazakh '''Eagle Hunters''' living in its shadow and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Petroglyphs]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Uvs Nuur Lake|lat=50.3|long=92.7}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Увс нуур''), [[Uvs|Uvs province]] — the largest lake in Mongolia and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Uvs Lake]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve]]|lat=47.541|long=108.343|wikidata=Q5618269}} — an ecotourism destination *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]|url=|lat=48.150204|long=107.576006|wikidata=Q1266074}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Горхи-Тэрэлж'') — a national park 70 km east of Ulaanbaatar *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Khövsgöl]]|lat=51.1|long=100.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Хөвсгөл нуур'') — a large freshwater alpine lake *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Darhad Valley|lat=51.166667|long=99.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Дархадын хотгор'') — home to the Reindeer people *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khustain Nuruu National Park]]|lat=47.765|long=105.878333|wikidata=Q1639106}} (Mongolian: ''Хустайн нуруу'') — Khustain Nuruu or Hustai National Park is home to the Takhi wild horses (also known as Przewalski's Horse). These are true wild horses which have never been domesticated. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park]]|lat=43.802729|long=101.589663|wikidata=Q1533528}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Говь гурван сайхан байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — Khongor Sand dunes, Yol Canyon, Bayanzag-Red Flaming Cliffs, and Khermen Tsav ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMongolia.png}} {{quote|Everybody needs to go to Mongolia just to see what it is to be a human being again.|author=Milla Jovovich, American actress.}} Mongolia is one of the world's largest landlocked countries, second only to [[Kazakhstan]] and is surrounded by two of the world's largest countries: [[China]] and [[Russia]]. It was the center of the [[Mongol Empire]], the largest contiguous empire in world history. With only 1.7 people per square kilometre, Mongolia has the lowest population density of any independent country. The country is nicknamed the "Land of Blue Skies," and with good reason. There are said to be about 250 sunny days throughout each year. The weather is bitterly cold during the winter, dropping down to -40°C in some parts. With many types of terrain — from desert to verdant mountains — the weather during the summer varies from region to region, but is generally hot. Outside of the Gobi desert, this time of year is marked with much rain in some areas, and it can become quite cool at night. For several letters, the ISO&nbsp;9 standard '''transliteration''' of Cyrillic is not widely used and there is no consensus either in Mongolia nor in Wikivoyage. Particularly, the same Cyrillic letter "х" is transliterated "h" or "kh", the letter "ө" is transliterated "ô", "ö", "o" or "u", but Latin "o" is also the transliteration of the Cyrillic "о", and Latin "u" is also the transliteration of Cyrillic "у" and "ү" (the latter should be transliterated "ù" according to ISO&nbsp;9, but this is rarely done). So, if you can't find a name as you wrote it, try other spellings. ''Mongolia'' may have geopolitical, cultural and geographical meanings. Modern-day Mongolia consists of what was historically ''Outer Mongolia'' (so-called when it was part of China). [[Inner Mongolia]] is politically separate and remains a province of China, sharing a border and a common cultural heritage with modern-day Mongolia. ===History=== {{see also|Mongol Empire|Imperial China}} [[File:USMC-100903-M-1294R-001.jpg|thumb|300px|Statue of Chinggis Khan outside the capital]] The recorded history of ancient Mongolia dates to the third century BC when the Xiongnu came to power among many other nomadic tribes. Due to illiteracy and their nomadic lifestyle, little was recorded by the Xiongnu of themselves; they first appear in recorded Chinese history as "barbarians" against whom the walls were built. Those walls later became known as the [[Great Wall of China]]. The Xiongnu were eventually defeated by China's Han Dynasty in AD 89. Xiongnu history is controversial. Different historians attribute them to several quite different ethnic groups. Some claim that Xiongnu is cognate to Hun Nu or even that these are basically the same group known as Huns centuries later in Europe, but both claims are contested. There have been several empires in Mongolia after the Xiongnu. The first strong state to emerge was the First Turkic Khaganate in AD 552 with its capital at Ötüken (modern-day [[Ordu-Baliq]]). However, due to political infighting, this empire fragmented into the Eastern Turkic Khaganate with its capital at Ötüken, and the Western Turkic Khaganate with its capital at [[Suyab]] (near [[Bishkek]] in modern-day [[Kyrgyzstan]]), in AD 603. Both of these states were eventually defeated by China's Tang Dynasty; the Eastern Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 630, while the Western Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 657. The next strong empire to emerge was the Uyghur Khaganate, with its capital Har Bulgas (Khar Bulgas or Xar Bulgas) near Har Horin. The Khitans who controlled northern China around AD 1000 as the Liao Dynasty had an administrative centre (Har Bukh) 120&nbsp;km to the northeast. The Turkish government has been promoting some Turkish Empire monuments and there is a museum full of artifacts at the Bilge Khaan site. The struggle for mere existence and power over other tribes continued until the time of Genghis Khan. Chinggis Khan, as he is known in Mongolia, born with the name Temüjin, came to power and united the warring tribes under the Great Mongol Empire in 1206. He was proclaimed Genghis Khan (Chingis Haan), meaning ruler of all Mongol tribes, and to this day, Mongolians consider him to be the father of their nation. The Mongol Empire was extended all the way to what is now [[Poland]] and [[Hungary]] in [[Europe]] under Genghis Khan, and they also conquered the Jurchen Jin Dynasty that then ruled northern China. His grandson, Kublai Khan, subsequently defeated the Chinese Song Dynasty and completed the conquest of China, establishing the Yuan Dynasty. [[Marco Polo]] travelled through much of the Mongol Empire in Kublai Khan's time. The Mongols were, however, driven back to the steppes by the Chinese Ming Dynasty under Emperor Hongwu. They were later progressively conquered by the Manchu Qing Dynasty in the 17th century, and played an important role in the Manchu conquest of China. An independent Mongol nation only reemerged in 1924. It was not recognised by China until 1945, as the Chinese were forced to grant independence to Outer Mongolia by the Soviet Union, in exchange for Soviet assistance in fighting the Japanese invasion. Thus, the historic region of Mongolia was split into two, with Outer Mongolia becoming the independent nation of Mongolia, while [[Inner Mongolia]] remained a province of China. Since that time, Mongolia has had a close relationship with the Soviet Union (and [[Russia]] after the breakup of the Soviet Union), with Russian becoming the most widely-spoken foreign language in Mongolia. Mongolia even replaced its traditional script with the Cyrillic alphabet. (The traditional script, however, continues to be used by ethnic Mongols in China.) Inner Mongolia was the more populated area before the partition, and the number of ethnic Mongols living in China still outnumbers the population of Mongolia. Following independence, the Soviet Union installed a communist government in Mongolia. Following the fall of communism in Europe, Mongolia enacted democratic reforms, which resulted in the first democratic multiparty elections in 1990. The democratic reforms culminated with the first peaceful transfer of power in 1996, when the incumbent Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party lost the elections, and handed power to the victorious Democratic Union. Mongolia's vast collection of natural resources such as gold, copper, and coal can very easily make it one of the wealthiest countries on the planet, but due to its landlocked geography, dependence on the goodwill of [[China]] and Russia, governmental and bureaucratic inefficiencies, Mongolia remains one of the least developed countries in Asia. ''The Secret History of the Mongols'' is one of the great recordings of Mongolian history. Every Mongolian reads the book in the modern Mongolian language. This is one of the oldest books in the Mongolian language. There are vivid similarities with the Bible in literary style, wording and story-telling. It is speculated that the author could have been a Christian or at least was very knowledgeable about the Bible. According to Hugh Kemp, Qadag is the most likely candidate for authorship of ''Secret History of the Mongols''. He writes about the history of ancient Mongolia and connects the modern reality with the ancient world. Even though the book is about the history of Christianity in Mongolia, it paints a view of ancient Mongolia from the height of 21st century. The ''History of Mongolia'' by B. Baabar is a good source for the modern history of Mongolia. [[On the trail of Marco Polo]] covers some travel through the Mongol Empire in the time of Genghis' grandson, Kublai Khan. ===People=== Mongolia is more than twice as big as Texas and nearly the same size as Alaska. Its area is 1.6 million km² (603,000 square miles), four times the size of Japan and larger than Spain, France and Germany combined. This makes Mongolia the sixth-largest country in Asia and 19th in the world, but the population is only 3.4 million (as of 2020), which makes Mongolia one of the least densely populated areas in Asia. Considering that half of the population lives in the capital city of Ulan Bator or Ulaanbaatar ("UB") that leaves lots of room for you to travel in the outback. Of course, the Gobi is even less dense. Almost another 40% of the population are scattered all over Mongolia with their 56 million head of sheep, goats, cattle, horses and camels. There are 21 provinces, called ''aimag''. Each ''aimag'' has a central city or town and about 15-22 sub-provinces called ''soum'', so you will know which ''aimag'' and which soum you are in. 70% of Mongolia is under the age of 35. The gender ratio is close to 1:1. It is home to various ethnic groups: 84% Khalkha Mongols, 6% Kazakhs and 10% other groups. More than 50% will say they are Buddhists, which is very much mixed with Shamanism, close to 10% will claim to be Christians of all forms and 4% follow Islam, the remainder will say that they are atheists. Mongolian Buddhism is part of the Vajrayana school, which is also dominant in [[Tibet]] and [[Bhutan]]. Almost all the Kazakhs and Muslims live in [[Bayan-Ölgii|Bayan-Ölgii province]]. === Economy === Mongolia possesses abundant deposits of copper, coal, tin, tungsten, molybdenum, and gold. The cashmere industry is also an important industry; Mongolia and its neighbour, China, are responsible for 85% of the world's cashmere supply. Although that sounds impressive, Mongolia is a relatively poor and undeveloped country. With an economy that depends heavily on the mining sector and on the goodwill of its two large neighbours, the country's economy is highly vulnerable to external shocks. When the Soviet Union disintegrated in 1991, the Mongolian economy lost a third of its GDP overnight, plunging the country into a state of disarray. ===Holidays and festivals=== [[Image:Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Naadam festival celebrations]] The annual '''Naadam festival''' (11–13 July) is the biggest day in many Mongols' calendars. It is when Mongolia celebrates its "three manly sports": wrestling, horse racing, and archery by either watching the festivities in Ulaanbaatar or by following them on television or radio. Many other smaller Naadam festivals are also held in different aimags (provinces) throughout July, and these more intimate festivals may let you get much closer to the action. The Naadam celebrations are said to have started with the rise of the Great Mongolian Empire. Chinggis (a.k.a. Genghis) Khan used them to keep his warriors strictly fit. After the fall of the empire, the contests were held during religious festivals, and since the communist revolution it was celebrated on its anniversary. Legend has it that a woman once dressed like man and won the wrestling competition. That is why the long-sleeved wrestling costumes, called "zodog", have open chests - to show that every participant is male. Wrestlers wear short trunks, "shuudag", and Mongolian boots, "gutal". The yellow stripes on tales of wrestlers' hats will indicate the number of times the wrestler became a champion in Naadam. {{CNYdates}} Only Naadam gives official titles to the wrestlers. Mongolian wrestling tournaments have 9 or 10 rounds depending on the number of 512 or 1024 wrestlers registered for the competition that year. If the wrestler wins 5 rounds, he will be awarded title "Nachin" (bird), 6 rounds - Hartsaga (hawk), 7 rounds - Zaan (elephant), 8 rounds - Garuda (Eagle), 9 rounds - Arslan (lion) and 10 - Avarga (Titan). In 2006, Zaan (Elephant) Sumyabazar won 9 rounds that made him Garuda but that year 1024 wrestlers had 10 rounds which he won all. This entitled him to Avarga. Or Arslan (Lion) must win 2 in a row to become Avarga (Titan). The titles are for life. If Avarga (Titan) keeps winning at Naadam more and more attributes will be added to his title. There are no weight categories in Mongolian Wrestling tournaments but there is a time limit of 30 minutes, if the wrestlers can not overthrow each other, referees use lots for better position which often settles the match. One who falls or whose body touches the ground loses the match. Mongolian wrestling matches are attended by seconds whose role is to assist their wrestlers in all matters and to encourage them to win by spanking on their butts. They also sing praise songs and titles to the leading wrestlers of both wings, west and east, after 5 and 7 rounds. The referees monitor the rules but the people and the fans are the final judges. They will speak and spread the word of mouth about who is who till the next year. ====Smaller festivals==== *'''Tsagaan Sar''' (White moon) - starts on the Lunar New Year and is a 3-day public holiday. Its not big with tourists for the obvious reason of being during the coldest month of the year. A time when families reunite and have a large meal of sheep's tail, mutton, rice with curds, dairy products, and buuz. It is also typical to drink airag and exchange gifts. *'''Golden Eagle Festival''' in [[Ölgii]] on October 5th and 6th is the world's largest gathering of eagle hunters. The event typically has 60 to 70 Kazakh eagle hunters displaying their skills. The events include having their golden eagles fly to them on command and catching a fox fur being pulled by a horse from a perch on a nearby mountain. The event also features traditional Kazakh games including Kokpar (tug-of-war over a goat carcass while on horseback), Tiyn Teru (a timed race to pick up a coin on the ground while on horseback), and Kyz Kuar ("girl chase" a race between a man and woman where the woman whips the man while he tries to hold on). The festival also has a traditional Kazakh concert, camel race, and displays of Kazakh art. A smaller eagle festival is held on Sept 22nd in the nearby village of Sagsai. *'''Nauryz''' also in [[Ölgii]] is the traditional new year's celebration of Kazakhs held on 22 March. There is a parade, concert, and horse races during the several days of celebrating. Though most of the celebration involves visiting friends and relatives to eat Nauryz Koje (soup) and boiled mutton and horse meat. *'''Ice Festival''' is held on the frozen surface of Lake Hövsgöl outside of [[Mörön]] each February. The 2-day festival includes wrestling, reindeer sleighs and riding, ice skating, shaman rituals, folk concert, and cultural events of the Tsagaan reindeer people. You should be warned; It is ''very cold'' in Northern Mongolia in February. *'''Yak Festival''' on July 23rd in between [[Karakorum]] and [[Arvayheer]]. The festival celebrates this large mammal that thrives in the cold Mongolian winters with a full day of yak races, a rodeo, and other competitions. There is a market, tourist gers, and a whole temporary village set up in the middle of the steppe. *'''Camel Festival''' in South Gobi province: A local non-governmental organization that aims to protect and preserve the Bactrian camel population organizes "The Thousand Camel Festival" in Bulgan County, South Gobi Province. The festival includes two types of camel races, camel-polo, and some other competitions related to camel breeders' cultural heritage such as training of untamed camels, making ropes from camel wool and loading. There is also a folk concert by school children from the countryside. The festival is held annually March 6–7 for 2 days. ====Public holidays==== While most business still takes place on most holidays, Tsagaan Sar and Naadam tend to last much longer than the official 3 days. Work may stop for weeks in the countryside for Tsagaan Sar. Also, election days are always public holidays and dry days. Alcohol is not sold on election days or the 1st of each month nationwide. * New Years – January 1 * Tsagaan Sar – January/February (3 days, depends on Lunar New Year) * International Women's Day – March 8 * Soldiers' Day – March 18 (not a day off, just lots of parades) * Mothers' and Children's' Day – June 1 * Naadam Festival – July 11–13 * Genghis Khan's Birthday – November 14 * Independence Day – November 26 (no longer a day off, replaced by Genghis Khan's Birthday) '''Working hours''' are almost always posted in 24 hours. Shops are usually open 10:00 to 21:00 or 22:00, and sometimes closed or shortened hours on Sunday or Monday. Banks usually open 08:00 or 09:00 to 17:00, though often closed for an hour for lunch. However, posted times are not always reliable, especially in the countryside. Expect shops to open at maybe 10:15 or 10:30 more often than not. Restaurants typically close around 22:00, while bars stay open until midnight or later. There are a few fast food restaurants in the capital that stay open until 03:00, but no shops open past midnight. ===Climate=== [[File:Khövsgöl Aimag12.JPG|thumb|Steppe in [[Hovsgol]] — if you want to experience desolate landscapes, Mongolia has plenty of them.]] The ideal Mongolia travel season starts in May and peaks in July, during the Naadam holiday, and in August when the weather is most favourable for travelling. This is the best time if you like the culture and can bear the crowds of other tourists. It is not a good time to get away from your busy lifestyle because of the traffic, busy schedules, waiting in lines, etc. September is also a very good time to visit, and October is not too late to travel to Mongolia. It is still warm during the days but a bit chilly during the nights. In the autumn, Mongolia is not very crowded, and this is time for late-comers and last-minute, unplanned trips. You will get to sightsee, enjoy the culture, and taste mare's milk, a bitter and at first somewhat unpleasant drink, throughout the country. For visitors not afraid of cold or fermented mare's milk, travelling to Mongolia from November till the Lunar New Year remains an option. Winter tourism is a developing area of the Mongolian tourism industry. The most rewarding experience will be visiting the nomads, as this is the time when you will experience their culture first-hand during "Tsagaan Sar" or the traditional (Lunar) New Year celebration. Cultural activities including singing, dancing, wrestling, and winter horse racing are available to tourists. Mongolia is known to have 250-260 sunny days throughout the year, so you will need good [[Sunburn and sun protection|UV protection]]. During winter, protect your eyes, and during summer, protect your skin. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.mongolia.travel/ Mongolia Travel] website ==Talk== {{see also|Mongolian phrasebook|Russian phrasebook}} The official language of Mongolia is '''[[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]'''. Mongolian in Mongolia is written using the '''Cyrillic alphabet''', which was introduced around the 1940s. Mongolian Cyrillic uses all the letters used in the [[Russian]] alphabet and has two extra letters: '''Ө''' and '''Ү'''. Very few people know how to read and write Mongolian using the '''traditional Mongolian script''' (written from top to bottom, and still widely used by ethnic Mongols in China), although since the 1990s, it has been gradually regaining popularity. Mongolian belongs to the Mongolic family of languages, which also includes some minority languages of Russia such as Buryat and Kalmyk, and is not known to be related to any other language family. That being said, Mongolian shares a decent amount of words and grammar structures with the Turkic languages (Turkish, Uzbek, Kazakh, etc.) due to historical proximity, so speakers of a Turkic language will have a somewhat easier time navigating Mongolian. Loanwords from languages such as Sanskrit, [[Russian]], English, and [[Persian]] are common and are used in everyday conversations. Mongolian is widely regarded as a very difficult language for an English-speaker to learn. It is an agglutinative language that makes extensive use of suffixing, makes use of nine grammatical cases, and has a number of pronunciation rules and differences. Don't let this intimidate you, though; Mongolians will appreciate your efforts to speak their language, even if your knowledge of it is rudimentary. If you speak Japanese, Korean, Manchu or a Turkic language, some aspects of Mongolian grammar will be familiar to you. '''[[Kazakh phrasebook|Kazakh]]''' is spoken in the westernmost province of the country and by the small but growing population of ethnic Kazakhs living in Ulaanbaatar. Due to Mongolia's longstanding alliance with the [[Soviet Union]] (and [[Russia]] since the fall of the Soviet Union), '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' is spoken by many older Mongolians, although proficiency drops drastically outside Ulaanbaatar. '''English''' is the most popular foreign language among younger Mongolians, and is widely taught in schools. Outside the capital, little of it is spoken. ==Get in== Historically, Mongolia had a reputation for being a very difficult country to visit. Until the mid-1990s, you had to solicit an invitation letter from someone living in Mongolia to visit Mongolia. Lately, the visa rules have been relaxed and most people can enter the country without a visa. The Mongolian government declared the 2023-2024 tourist season the "Year of Mongolia", relaxing visa requirements for many countries, including all major Western nations. Whether this will become a permanent change is yet to be seen. ===Entry requirements=== [[File:New visa policy of Mongolia 2023.png|thumb|375px|Visa policy of Mongolia {{legend|#ed1c24|Mongolia}} {{legend|#22b14c|Visa-free (90 days)}} {{legend|#79d343|Visa-free (30 days)}} {{legend|#b5e61d|Visa-free (21 days)}} {{legend|#ffb583|Visa-free (14 days)}} {{legend|#ffd000|Visa on arrival (30 days)}} {{legend|#a1d4b0|eVisa (30 days)}} {{legend|#ababab|Visa required in advance}}]] Citizens of [https://en.consul.mn/visa/c/83 the following countries/territories]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} can enter Mongolia '''visa-free''': *'''For up to 90 days:''' [[Argentina]], [[Belarus]], [[Brazil]], [[Chile]], [[Ecuador]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Kyrgyzstan]], [[Macau]], [[Peru]], [[Serbia]], [[South Korea]], [[Ukraine]] (with an "official invitation") and [[United States]] *'''For up to 30 days:''' Citizens of [[Canada]], [[Germany]], [[Israel]], [[Japan]], [[Laos]], [[Malaysia]], [[Russia]], [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], [[Turkey]], [[Uruguay]], and [[Uzbekistan]], as well as the following for tourism until the end of 2025: [[European Union]] member states, [[Australia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Monaco]], [[New Zealand]], [[Norway]], [[Switzerland]], and [[United Kingdom]] *'''For up to 21 days:''' [[Philippines]] *'''For up to 14 days:''' [[Hong Kong]] Everyone else, however, must apply for a visa. Obtaining a visa — by default, the Mongolian authorities issue '''thirty-day visas''' to all tourists — is relatively straightforward and effortless. ==== Applying for a Mongolian visa ==== Although requirements vary from diplomatic post to diplomatic post, you are normally asked to submit the following to obtain a Mongolian visa: * A visa application form * A passport-sized photo * A passport with a validity of more than six months * A copy of your travel itinerary * A copy of your hotel reservation * A copy of your bank statement * A letter of invitation (if you intend to stay longer than 30 days in Mongolia) * A letter of approval from the government (only required if you plan to study, work, or live in Mongolia) Also, it is possible to acquire an expedited visa in a matter of hours at the Mongolian consulate in Erlian, though there is a steep US$50 fee for this service. A similar service is available in the Mongolian consulate in the Russian city of [[Irkutsk]]. The [http://www.embassyofmongolia.co.uk/ Embassy of Mongolia in the UK website] is useful for updates, with the [http://embassyofmongolia.co.uk/?p=186&lang=en visa page]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offering information on visa applications at the embassy. [http://beijing.mfa.gov.mn/?lang=en The Embassy of Mongolia in China website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} hosts the form you will need to apply for your Mongolian visa in China, although the consulate does have them. To stay more than 30 days, you have to register at the Mongolia Immigration. ===By plane=== [[image:MIAT Boeing 737-800 at ULN.jpg|thumb|MIAT plane in Ulaanbaatar]] Thanks to a booming mining sector, '''Chinggis Khaan International Airport''' ({{IATA|UBN}}) in [[Ulaanbaatar]] is now connected to some major airport hubs in eastern Asia and Istanbul and Frankfurt. Flag carrier [http://www.miat.com/ MIAT Mongolian Airlines]{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operates daily flights (during some peak season - twice a day) from [[Beijing]] and [[Seoul]], twice a week flights from [[Hong Kong]], [[Moscow]] and [[Tokyo]] (during some peak season - from Narita). During peak summer season it increases flight frequencies and operates flights from [[Busan]] and [[Osaka]]. There are branch offices in Berlin, Moscow, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo and Beijing. Mongolia-based [http://www.hunnuair.com/ Hunnu Air] flies 3 times a week from [[Bangkok]] and 5 flights a week from Hong Kong. There are almost daily flights from Seoul on Korean Air as well as other flights through Beijing, and 3 flights a week to [[Istanbul]]. It is also possible to fly to Ulaanbaatar through Tokyo's Narita Airport. ===By train=== [[image:Trans Mongolian Train 01.jpg|thumb|Trans-Mongolian train]] {{main|Trans-Siberian Railway}} The '''Trans-Mongolian Line''' of the legendary [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] links [[Ulaanbaatar]] with [[Moscow]], [[Russia]] and [[Beijing]], [[China]]. The Mongolian line branches from the main Trans-Siberian at [[Ulan-Ude]], so you'll need to break your journey there if coming from points east like [[Vladivostok]]. There is a small water boiler at the end of each train car which dispenses free hot water, so it's a good idea to stock up on instant noodles and tea for the trip. Also, don't expect to encounter any English-speaking staff on the train or in the stations. ====From Russia==== The Trans-Siberian train crosses the Russia/Mongolia border at the town of [[Naushki]], Russia. Trains start from [[Moscow]] or [[Irkutsk]] going to either Ulaanbaatar or Beijing, with several stops on both sides of the border. Between Irkutsk and the border are [[Ulan-Ude]], Naushki, Dozornoe, and Khoit. Between the Russian border and Ulaanbaatar are [[Sühbaatar]], [[Darkhan (city)|Darkhan]], and Zuunkharaa, with possible stops in [[Erdenet]] and Salkhit. ====From China==== [[image:WheelChanging.jpg|thumb|Changing wheels at the Chinese border]] Second class (hard sleeper) costs about US$200 (2011) from [[Beijing]] to [[Ulaanbaatar]], crossing the border at [[Erlian]]/[[Zamiin-Üüd]]. There are two trains a week and the ride takes almost 30 hours, including a mandatory stop of 3-4 hours at Erlian while the train bogies are switched between Russian broad gauge and Chinese standard gauge. You will have to take all your belongings and leave the train for this operation, and will be confined to the waiting area at Erlian station, even if you're inbound to China and have already passed through immigration. You can, however, ask staff for a free ticket that will let you step outside to raid the nearby shops and restaurants for supplies. =====Beijing to the border===== If the [[Beijing]] - [[Ulaanbaatar]] train is sold out, as seems to be common, or you need a more frequent option, you can make your way from Beijing to the border at [[Erlian]] by '''local train''' as described below, and then on to Ulaanbaatar by bus and train. As of March 2011, there are morning flights from Beijing to Erlian out of Capital Airport Terminal 1 costing only ¥160, which is cheaper than the bus. Trains run daily from Beijing to [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]] or [[Hohhot]]. You can change there for a train to the border town of [[Erlian]] near the Mongolian-Chinese border. The K89 leaves Beijing in the morning and arrives at Jining in the evening. Jining has many hotels near the train station and has karaoke bars to keep you entertained while you wait. From Jining to Erlian there is a slow train that leaves in the morning, passes the Great Wall multiple times, and arrives in the early evening. This will take a night longer than getting the sleeper bus as described in "By bus". =====Crossing the border===== Be wary of scams at the border where people in uniform will attempt to sell you "required travel insurance." There is no such thing and you can safely ignore them. You should then cross the border from [[Erlian]] in China to [[Zamiin-Uud]] in Mongolia as described in [[Erlian#To and from Mongolia|Erlian to and from Mongolia]]. Once you have crossed the border, you will need to get from Zamiin-Uud to Ulaanbaatar as described in [[Zamiin-Uud#Get in|Zamiin-Uud get in]]. ===By car=== Many adventurous people drive to Mongolia, usually starting somewhere in Europe. [http://www.theadventurists.com/the-adventures/mongol-rally The Mongol Rally] and [http://mongolia.charityrallies.org/ Mongol Charity Rally]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} sponsor many of them. Driving to Mongolia can be extremely challenging in many respects. Not only are there virtually no roads in the western half of Mongolia, but vehicle registration, import fees and paperwork, visas and everything have to be ready for every country along the way. For those who still wish to make the journey by car, there are 4 land border crossings with Russia and 3 with China. Though it is much more expensive and difficult to drive through, into, or out of China in your own car. :*See '''[[Driving in China]]''' for issues for driving to Mongolia from China. ====From Russia==== The main border is in Altanbulag-Kyakhta ([[Sühbaatar]]), nearest to the capital, is open 24 hours a day. In the far west is the Tsagaannuur-Tashanta crossing in [[Bayan-Olgii]], is open Monday to Saturday 09:00-18:00 and is the most popular with adventure drivers. Also in the west is Borshoo-Khandgait crossing between [[Uvs]] and [[Tuva| Tuva Republic]], is open Monday to Friday 09:00-18:00. In the east, Ereentsav-Solovyovsk crossing near [[Choibalsan]] is open daily 09:00-18:00. ===By bus=== There is a paved road connecting Ulaanbaatar to the Chinese border, and one between UB and Russia. ====From Russia==== *Those interested in saving money can book one-way elektrichka (regional train) tickets from Irkutsk or Ulan Ude to Naushki. In Naushki, one can spend the night in the train resting rooms (komnati otdikha) for US$0.50 per hour. From there, it is possible to take a marshrutka to the land border crossing town of [[Kyakhta]], Russia. Walking across the border is prohibited, but travellers have no problems arranging for Mongolia-bound cars to take them across the border, for either a small fee or free. Upon crossing into Mongolia it is relatively easy to hitchhike, taxi, or bus to [[Sühbaatar]] or UB, as all southbound traffic is headed towards those cities. *From the west, from Russia, it is possible to cross at the land border in Tsagaannuur, Bayan-Olgii. There are daily petrol and wheat-carrying Russian Kamaz trucks headed to Olgii and it is possible to hitchhike to Tsagaannuur or even [[Olgii]]. Regular buses and marshrutkas also operate from the border, though service is unpredictable due to the lack of a schedule. There is also a bus every 10 days between either [[Astana]] or [[Almaty]], [[Kazakhstan]] and Olgii. ====From China==== * Liuliqiao long-distance bus station (六里桥客运主枢纽 or lìu lǐ qiáo kè yùn zhǔ shū nǐu), phone +86 10 8383–1716, address: A1, Liuliqiao Nan Li, Fengtai District. Departure at 16:30. These are supposed to run daily, but may not. You can phone at 10:00 on the morning of departure to see if the bus is running and to reserve a place. * Muxiyuan long-distance bus station (木樨园才华长途汽车站), phone +86 10 6726–7149, location: go to Liujiayao Metro Station and get a cab. Departs at 17:00. * Lizeqiao long-distance bus station (丽泽桥长途汽车站), phone (丽泽桥长途汽车站) Address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东 +86 10 6340–3408, address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东. Location is difficult to get to. Departs at 17:00. From [[Hohhot]] by bus costs 88 Chinese yuan and takes 6-7 hr. There are several daily buses. Once in Erlian, follow the '''Crossing the border''' and '''From the border to Ulaanbaatar''' steps above. Should you be travelling at a busy time (e.g., around Naadam on the 11th and 12th July) and want to be sure of getting tickets for the last leg of the trip in Mongolia, you could take one of the packages from the guesthouses in Beijing. These cost around 570 yuan (July 2009) and include a taxi to the coach station in Beijing, Beijing to [[Erlian]] by sleeper coach, a bed in the hotel in the bus station for a few hours, a bus from Erlian to [[Zamiin-Üüd]] across the border, then soft sleeper overnight from Zamiin-Üüd to [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Purchased separately, the tickets cost about 360 yuan. The Saga guesthouse in Beijing sells these, and although they insist till they're blue in the face that the train is a hard sleeper, it's actually a soft sleeper! ===By bicycle=== At Zamiin-Uud you have to put your bicycle in a car. You are not allowed to cycle through the 3-km-wide border area. Prepare to bargain. They will start at US$100 and more. You should be able to get them down to US$20 or less. If you are lucky and get up early, you might catch a truck. They will take you for free. Usually you have better chances with Mongol drivers, if you want to cross into Mongolia. At Altanbulag you also have to put the bicycle in a car, but prices are reasonable and usually fixed. Enjoy watching your driver smuggle goods in or out of Mongolia. ===By thumb or foot=== The road passes through the border town of [[Zamiin-Üüd]] and continues to Ulaanbaatar. Hitchhiking in Mongolia is not easy and a little bit of money for the driver is expected. There is an average of one car every hour heading into the desert. Rules at the border require that you ride a bus or car across the border, not walk across. However, they do not care how you get there or where you go afterwards. ==Get around== If you plan to travel around the countryside without a guide, take a [[GPS]] and some maps. The "Mongolia Road Atlas" is available in many book shops, it has over 60 pages and covers the whole country: there is a Latin-character version and Cyrillic-character version, in the countryside most people won't understand the Latin version. More detailed maps are available at the Mongolian Government Map Store. These maps are 1:500,000. Also, some other special-purpose maps and a good map of downtown Ulaanbaatar. The map store is on Ih Toiruu St. Go west from the State Department Store on the main street, called Peace, Peace and Friendship, or Ekhtavan Ave., two blocks to the large intersection with traffic lights, turn right (north) and the map store is about halfway along the block. There is an Elba electronic appliance store set back from the street, a yellow and blue building, the next building is a 4-story, Russian-style office building, the map store entrance is on the west side, toward the south end of the building. It lines up with the north wall of the Elba building. Whichever the method of long-distance travel, keep in mind that everything in Mongolia has a tendency to break down. Don't be shocked if part of the suspension breaks and the driver jerry-rigs a carved wooden block in the place of a mount. For more serious breakdowns, it can easily take an entire day or longer for somebody to come along and help, so leave plenty of slack in itineraries. Finally, Mongolians are rather notorious for being late. A bus that is scheduled to leave at 08:00 will probably not be out of the city until almost 11:00. The entirety of the country is public property, and - especially in the winter - drivers will simply peel off the paved roads and chart their own paths to get to a certain destination. Often, many of the destinations are not near any permanent roads, requiring this off-roading to get to them. If driving off-road, take extra care to ensure that you have the proper supplies and knowledge to survive in the event your vehicle breaks down or gets stuck. It is also highly recommended to have a guide who knows the area and/or a strong knowledge of Mongolian with which you can converse with local nomads to inquire where exactly your destination is and how to get to it. ===By plane=== [[image:AeroMongoliaFokker50.jpg|thumb|An AeroMongolia plane]] The easiest way to travel long distance is via one of the domestic airlines: AeroMongolia or Hunnu Air. Almost all flights are between Ulaanbaatar and the Aimag centers. Except for mines in the south Govi and [[Choibalsan]], which use Boeing 737s, most flights use turboprop regional planes. AeroMongolia uses a two-tier price structure, charging foreigners significantly more than locals, while Hunnu has only one price. Other than price, there is little difference between the airlines. Air travel agents, guest houses and hotels can help you to obtain domestic air tickets in Mongolia. *{{listing | name=AeroMongolia | url=http://aeromongolia.mn/ | email=reservation@aeromongolia.mn | address= | lat= | long= | directions=1st floor, Monnis tower, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 11 330373 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-18:00; Sa 10:00-18:00 | price= | content= It is generally cheaper, but uses older planes and charges foreigners double the local rate. }} *{{listing | name=Hunnu Air | url=http://hunnuair.com/ | email=info@hunnuair.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= Chinggis avenue 10-1, Sukhbaatar district, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 7000 1111 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Formerly Mongolian Airlines. }} ===By train=== There is only one railway company in Mongolia, owned by the Russian and Mongolian governments, "Mongolian Railway". It is probably the best way to experience something of the communist time, even if it has evolved a bit since then. Ulaanbaatar railway agents more often consider the passenger as a potential rulebreaker than as a client. The railway network is poor, consisting mainly of the Irkutsk-Ulaanbaatar-Beijing Trans-Mongolian way with a few extensions. Trains are extremely slow. They usually leave on time, and arrive on time or less than 20 minutes late. Intercity bus routes on the roughly parallel paved roads will get you there much faster. The local trains stop at many small stations in the countryside. For example, there is the small town of Batsumber, located about 34 km north of Ulaanbaatar (as the crow flies), longer on the train. Take your camping gear and hike to the mountains about 10 km east of the town. There are two streams flowing west out of the mountains, hike and camp along the streams. There is a small restaurant, and food shops in the town. ====Train tickets==== It's possible to pay for train tickets by credit card. For online booking of train tickets, go to the [https://eticket.ubtz.mn/ official website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (an English version is available, but not all the information is translated). The website is not the most user-friendly, but fortunately [http://wandersimply.com/how-to-buy-mongolian-train-tickets-online/ Wander Simply] has a good write-up on how to navigate the site and buy tickets. Alternatively, contact the company [http://www.traintomongolia.com Train to Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to buy tickets at a commission. You pay an extra fee if you book in advance, and also an extra fee if you buy it in the train, which is the only possibility left if there are less than 10 minutes left before the train departure. Your passport is required to buy a ticket, but you can buy several people's tickets with one passport. There are 3 classes: "coupé", "sleeping", and "public" (translated into English by "economic" by the company). "Coupé" is the only one with doors. In "public" it's possible to have to spend the night sitting and even with little space on crowded days. The tickets are numbered, but, when the seats are exhausted, the company overbooks public seats with tickets numbered "0", at the same price. The "public" seats tickets are much cheaper (and much slower) than the coach, minivan and taxi competitors. In a coupé at night, you'll be charged for compulsory additional bed sheets inside the train. ====Inside a train==== You will be proposed drinks and Mongolian food inside the train, both by official sellers of the company and, at the big stations with long stops, by private people entering the train for that purpose. There are many conductors. Don't expect them to speak anything other than Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. Theft is rare on Mongolian trains, but keeping an eye on your belongings is generally a good idea. There are police on every train. On a long trip, your ticket will be checked repeatedly, and you'll be awakened throughout the night for that. However, nobody will wake you if you have to get off during the trip, but if you get off at the terminus, you'll be awakened, even more than one hour before arrival, depending on the agent. The '''train toilets''' close 30 minutes before the terminus, and sometimes even before that. ===By bus=== [[File:Juulchin Tourism Corp 12.JPG|thumb|Tourist bus in the [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]]] Travelling by local bus is also an option, though these buses tend to only connect the provincial capital with UB, and it is quite difficult to find any public transportation linking one provincial capital with another. Lately the bus situation has improved. Most cities and towns are referred to in two ways, their name or the name of the Aimag (province) or Soum (county), e.g. Dornod or Dornod Aimag or Choibalsan (the actual city name). Most buses have their destination on a card in the front window. If you have either name written down in Mongolian Cyrillic, show it to the drivers or helpers and they will get you on the right bus. There are two types of buses, microvans and large buses (some large buses are old Russian types and some are modern western types), depending on the road. The large buses run on schedule, but the micro-buses are much more lax. In Ulaanbaatar, there are two bus stations, one on the west near the Dragon Shopping Center and one on the East near the Botanical Gardens. Both stations are on Peace Avenue on opposite sides of the city. Multiple buses run between them. Get local to write directions. For the large buses buy your tickets the day before. In the Aimag centres, there will be service to Ulaanbaatar and to local soums (small county seats) and usually the next Aimag center. However, all locations may not be available at one location. Ask for help from the locals. For example, in Ondorkhaan, the capital of Khentii Province, there is a bus service between Ondorkhaan and UB from a central bus station, however the through buses going to/from UB to Dornod and Sukhbaatar Aimags (Choybalsan and Baruun-Urt) will stop at a gas station on the north side of the city. ====Bus tickets==== Tickets are sold in the station, not in the coach. Don't expect any cashier, driver or conductor to speak anything but Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. It's not possible to pay by credit card. Your passport is required to buy a ticket. If you have a luggage exceeding the standard (written in your ticket) in weight or size, you'll be asked for an extra fee by the conductor. You can negotiate this one. ====Inside a bus==== On some routes, the driver and the conductor illegally add extra passengers and pocket the cash. They might even try to make 3 people sit on 2 seats, for instance: you can protest in such a case. Your ticket gives you the right to a full seat and this is what you get in most coaches. The coach will usually stop for a rather quick lunch or dinner at a local snackshop or canteen. ===By minivan=== Public countryside taxis and minivans, often called purgon or mekr, offer more destinations than coaches and many more than train, especially between provinces. They are more dangerous than coaches and trains, and always overloaded. Most drivers don't respect the traffic rules. Countryside taxis and minivans leave when full. They always say they will go "now" ("odo") despite often departing hours later. See how many people are already sitting inside the vehicle to have an idea of how long you'll wait. Drivers also usually promise to pick up additional passengers and cargo before leaving town. ===By chartered jeep=== [[image:Mongol cable ferry.jpg|thumb|River ferry in Hovsgol]] It is also possible to charter a Jeep and driver for private use. Prices are typically negotiated by the kilometre. While far more expensive than sharing a ride with the locals, this means of transport is considerably more convenient and allows you to visit more remote sites. It can also be quite convenient to hire a guide to use during the length of your stay. Doing so can allow you to travel without worrying about taxi drivers overcharging by up to 10x for being a foreigner. ===By car=== One of the most convenient ways to get around is by car. This isn't to say that it's completely safe, however. Road accidents are very common in Mongolia, largely because of reckless driving habits. Drivers do not obey traffic rules and speeding is common. Many cars are in poor condition and not all of them are fitted with seat belts. The road network is narrow and generally in poor condition. Avoid driving at night, as most roads are unlit and may have obstacles and potholes. ===By taxi=== In the cities, taxis should charge about 1500&nbsp;₮ per km. The drivers will set their trip meter and charge accordingly. ===By horse=== For local travel, horse-back is a good option. Mongolians ride on wooden saddles, so if you value your buttocks it's probably a good idea to pick up a leather, Russian saddle in UB. ===By foot=== Walking is another great alternative. Since camping is possible anywhere, resting is never a problem. Wherever there is water, there are nomads, and if you stick to the major dirt roads you will encounter plenty of guanz, which can provide huge cheap meals to keep you going. Adopting the Mongolian style of sleeping outdoors is also an option: wrap yourself in wool blankets and then cover yourself with a Russian raincoat (essentially a tarpaulin in the form of a trench coat), and simply plop yourself down on the ground. One night sleeping this way gives a whole new appreciation for the wonders of sleeping bags and bivvy sacks/tents. ==See== [[image:Gandan Monastery 10.JPG|thumb|Monk at the Gandan Monastery]] Mongolia is a big country that has been beyond the reach of travellers and the normal trappings of civilization until the 21st century. Even today it can be difficult to travel between the few places that 'exist'. There is little noteworthy architecture in the country. Except for the short-lived capital of the Mongol Empire at '''[[Karakorum]] (Kharkhorin)''', the descendants of Genghis Khan left little evidence of their power inside their native homeland. Genghis Khan, who leveled cities from the Yellow Sea to the Caspian, was said to have only built one permanent building during his life, a warehouse to store his stupendous amount of loot. ====Archaeology==== [[File:BuddhaErdeneZuuMonasteryMongolia.JPG|thumb|Buddha at Erdene Zuu]] Though this structure no longer exists, the capital built by his son, Ögedei, does, as do countless artifacts in the National Museum in [[Ulaanbaatar]], and thousands of stone monuments and drawings spread throughout the country, some dating back thousands of years. After the gradual disintegration of the Mongol Empire, many Tibetan Buddhist monasteries were built, providing the most visible signs of Mongolia's history. Today only a few still stand after Stalinist religious purges. Of particular note is the '''[[Northern Mongolia|Amarbaysgalant Monastery]]''' in Selenge, the '''Erdene Zuu Monastery''' in Kharkhorin, and '''Gandan Monastery''' in Ulaanbaatar, all active religious sites with large numbers of resident lamas. During the communist era, the Soviets helped establish large modern cities and modern industries, which aren't very pretty, but are of some interest, particularly the biggest open-pit copper mine in Asia at [[Erdenet]]. For a country that prides itself on its nomadic heritage, there are a surprising amount of ruins of stone structures (and even cities) scattered about Mongolia. With the exception of Kharkhorin, practically none of these are anywhere near a paved road, but their isolation makes their grandeur even more impressive. People interested in the ethnogenesis of the Turkic peoples will not want to miss the '''Orkhon Inscriptions''' in the Orkhon Valley (about a 40 minute drive north of Kharkhorin). These two massive stone stelae contain the oldest written Turkic language, and serve as a sort of Rosetta Stone for the reconstruction of both Old Turkic and Proto-Turkic. The Turkish government has funded a nice museum on the site and a paved road from the museum to Kharkhorin, making the inscriptions easily accessible to travellers. =====Monasteries===== Before the religious purges, Mongolia had around 750 monasteries and was a theocracy. Many were destroyed, while some were turned into museums by the communists to display Mongolian art or the opulence of the former religious leaders. Today the '''Choijin Lama Monastery''' and the '''Bogd Khan Winter Palace''' are preserved as museums for the art of the Lamas and the toys of the former king. Other ancient monasteries are slowly reopening and recovering like the Amarbaysalant in Selenge Province or the Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar. Most monasteries today are small, newly built temples in towns that didn't even exist before the purges. =====Museums===== Besides the monastery museums, Ulaanbaatar hosts several interesting and noteworthy museums to see before going off to the countryside. The best one by far is the '''National Museum of Mongolia''' with large collections of artifacts from the Mongol Empire through the Democratic Revolution of 1990. The '''Chinggis Khaan Museum''' in Ulaanbaatar offers an even larger collection, although it only spans prehistory to the Qing Empire. Several other good art museums and lesser history and nature museums also exist in the city if you will be there for an extended time. Outside of the capital, every provincial center also has a small museum usually built by the communists and mostly not updated since they left. These museums are cheap and do have useful displays on local cultures and history. There are also some '''communist-era sites'''. ====Nature==== One thing that does look much the same as it always has is the unspoiled nature of Mongolia. Due to its very low population density, the lowest in the world, it is possible to travel days with only seeing the occasional nomadic herder interrupting endless rolling steppes, the vast [[Gobi]] desert, or the snow-capped Altai Mountains. Up north, Siberian forests surround the 2nd largest freshwater lake in Asia by volume, Hôvsgôl (or "Hövsgöl") lake, in [[Hövsgöl]] province, which is very beautiful. The '''Flaming Cliffs''' near [[Dalanzadgad]] are stunning just to see, but also contain some of the earliest and most important dinosaur discoveries. ====People==== The most memorable part of any trip to Mongolia, regardless of what drew you here, will certainly be the people. Mongolians are incredibly hospitable to guests. No trip here is complete without having dinner or staying the night with '''nomadic herders'''. Around a third of the population still earns a living as semi-nomadic herders living in gers (yurts) on the open steppe. While their diets are not very diverse, consisting of meat, flour, and dairy, they will seek to serve guests a feast of boiled or fried meat and hot milky tea, with traditional entertainments of music, singing, and maybe dance. There is some variation depending on which tribe or region, with Kazakhs near [[Ölgii]] being the most different with different language, diet, and dress, including the practice of '''eagle hunting'''. While the Tuvans have a beautiful, eerie singing style of throat-singing, and the Tsaatan people live isolated lives herding reindeer near Lake Hövsgöl. Then there are the Lama monks who are increasingly common in monasteries and elsewhere, and the '''Shaman priests''', who practice the ancient animist religions of worshiping nature and the earth, and are widely respected in Mongolia. ==Do== [[image:Mongolian honor guard procession.jpg|thumb|Mongolian honor guard]] Experiencing the culture and having a meal or spending the night with a nomadic family are authentic Mongolian experiences. Whether you go just outside of the capital or fly to the far corners of the country, this is the most memorable part of any trip. There are some variations on the experience, depending on the tribal group. The '''[[Trans-Siberian Railway]]''' passes through the country. Also follow the path of [[On the trail of Marco Polo|Marco Polo]] across Europe and Asia into Mongolia to visit the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in [[Karakorum]]. Mongolia is the least densely populated country in the world and has very little development of any kind outside of the capital and a few small towns. There often aren't even roads connecting these towns. This pristine setting means that Mongolia has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Traveling across this vast country is often an adventure in itself with tourists and adventurers alike going by car, motorcycle, bike, horse, camel, or foot. Most often this means camping on the shore of a river or with a nomadic family or in small roadside hotels in provincial towns. Along the way or on one of the many wild rivers and nature preserves, there is great fishing, particularly fly-fishing during the summer. Climbing the mountains in the west is popular as well as photographing the wildlife, flora, or the multitude of birds living or migrating through Mongolia. * Canoe down some of Mongolia's major rivers. * Listen to traditional Mongolian '''throat singing'''. * Visit reindeer herders, such as the Tsaatan Community, which is west of Khovsgol lake. Several tour companies sell tours to visit the reindeer herders living in high alpine mountains. To get there, ride horses from Tsagaannuur or Rinchinlhumbe. You need to get a border permit in UB or Murun before starting the tour. Most licensed tour companies can get the border permit if you provide your travel details in advance. Horse-trekking can be hard and long. But it's worth traveling there. * Local Bonda Lake Camp in Khatgal village near Lake Khovsgol offers fishing, hiking, winter tours, nomad visits, horseback riding, visiting reindeer herders and the Darhad valley. Horse riding, you can discover Lake Khovsgol and its beautiful waters, meet Tsataan (nomadic reindeer herders) living in gers in the north of Khovsgol area. This region is incredibly scenic, perched at 1645 m altitude in green mountains, covered with thick pine forests and lush meadows with grazing yaks and horses, and rich with wildlife: the lake has 9 species of fish and its surroundings are full of sheep, goats, elk and more than 430 species of birds. There are 5 Mongolian tribes nearby: Khalh, Darhad, Buriad, Hotgoid, and Urianhai. The camp has a hot shower, sauna, internet and a restaurant with Mongolian and European meals. *{{do | name=Mountain Climbing | alt= | url= | email= | address=All over Mongolia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Best to climb the highest peaks in July and August | price= | content=While much of the country is rolling steppe, there are several mountain ranges. The Altai Mountains in the west have several peaks of over {{ft|13,000}} up to {{ft|14,201}} in [[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]. The highest mountains have snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and require special equipment and experienced guides. Smaller mountains throughout the country can be hiked in an afternoon, including many surrounding the capital of Ulaanbaatar. }} ===Winter activities=== *{{listing | type=do | name=Join Kazakh eagle hunters on a hunt | alt= | url= | email= | address=In [[Western Mongolia]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=During the cold winter months, the Kazakhs in western Mongolia use eagles to hunt for foxes and hares, which are easier to see against the snow. Freezing temperatures and long days on Mongolian or Kazakh horses discourage most people from attempting this adventure. For those who do, seeing an eagle released from a man's forearm swoop down and kill a fox a mile away is an unforgettable experience. }} *Skiing: There is one ski resort outside of Ulaanbaatar with a ski lift, equipment rentals, instructors, and all the other features of a ski resort. The lift may be slow, and the runs a bit hard, but it does provide good entertainment for those visiting UB during the long, cold winter months. For more adventurous types, western Mongolia's large mountain ranges provide great '''back-country skiing'''. The spring months of April and May get the most snow and make the best skiing. Either join a tour or lug all of your own equipment. There aren't any ski shops in the nearby villages. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mongolian tögrög | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;₮ | date=January 2025 | USD=3,600 | EUR=4,200 | GBP=4,300 | CNY= | RUB=3,362 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mnt-mongolian-tughrik/ XE.com] }} The Mongolian currency is the '''tögrög''' (also spelled "tugrik", "tugrug" etc.; Mongol: төгрөг), denoted by the sign "'''₮'''" (ISO international currency code: '''MNT'''). You may also see the notations "tg" and "T". Banknote denominations in circulation are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000&nbsp;₮. It is virtually impossible to exchange tögrög outside the country, so don't exchange too much. US dollars are widely accepted in the tourist industry, especially for larger payments (hotels, guides, etc.), but are not usable in the countryside. ===Tipping=== In Mongolia tipping is rarely expected except in tourism-related services like tour guides. Waiters, taxis, and hotel attendants do not expect tips. Sometimes taxis will attempt to overcharge you by refusing to give change back, but this has nothing to do with gratuity. Some nicer restaurants and hotels in the capital do often add fees to the bill for service, especially for larger groups. ===Shopping=== *Mongolian cashmere is known as the best in the world, so consider buying garments and blankets from one of the many stores selling cashmere products. *Mongolia is famous for its copper mines Erdenet and Oyu Tolgoi. A copper bookmark might make an ideal souvenir and you can easily find this US$1 metal souvenir in Ulaanbaatar souvenir shops. *'''Kazakh embroideries''' made in [[Ölgii]] using traditional Kazakh designs are sold in many gift shops in Ulaanbaatar. *'''Paintings''' by local artists are excellent buys in Mongolia. *You can find '''felt poker-work''' in [[Erdenet]]. *It is illegal to take '''antiques''' out of the country without a special permit. *The huge open-air market, '''Narantuul''' ("The Black Market") in Ulaanbaatar offers the lowest prices on just about anything you could want. Beware of the many pickpockets and even attackers there. This can be a great place to get a good pair of ''riding boots''. You can opt for a variety of Mongolian styles, from fancy to the more practical, or even get a good set of Russian-style boots. *Mongolia is justly famous for its [[carpets]]. [[Erdenet]] is home to Mongolia's largest carpet factory, also making and selling slippers made of carpet, though its carpets are made by machine, not traditional methods. For traditional carpets, visit a local market, including the famous Black Market in [[Ulaanbaatar]]. ===Grocery shopping=== ''Prices as of April 2018:'' * Bread (1 loaf) - 1,600 ₮ * Bottled water (0.5 liter) - 600 ₮ * Beef (1kg) - 9,500 ₮ * Yogurt (0.45kg) - 1,600 ₮ * Beer (0.5 liter) - 2,000 ₮ to 5,000 ₮ * Milk (1 liter) - 2,350 ₮ * Potato (1kg) - 1,050 ₮ * Onion (1kg) - 1,550 ₮ * Coffee (0.8kg) - 12,000 ₮ * Banana (1kg) - 4,500 ₮ * Grape (1kg) - 11,000 ₮ * Apple juice (2 liters) - 5,000 ₮ * Eggs (10) - 4,450 ₮ ==Eat== {{infobox|Un-Mongolian barbecue|Boiled mutton? Aren't Mongolians famous for barbecue? Sadly, no: "Mongolian BBQ" was invented in Taiwan in the 1970s. Due to tourist demand, there is one Mongolian BBQ place in Ulaanbaatar now, but it's run by an American!}} [[File:Dishes_of_Mongolian_cuisine.jpg|thumb|The Mongolian trifecta: ''khuushuur'' fried dumplings on the left, ''buuz'' steamed dumplings on the right, and pieces of boiled mutton on top]] Anywhere you find people in Mongolia, you will also smell the scent of '''boiled mutton''', the principal dish of Mongolia. A typical herder in the countryside will eat little else, flavored only with a little salt. Vegetables and spices are very limited, and even flour may be in short supply, since the climate is poorly suited to agriculture. Restaurants, canteens and tea shops in Mongolia also have a mutton-centric menu, revolving around three dishes: * ''buuz'' (бууз) &mdash; Steamed dumplings stuffed with meat, often called the national dish of Mongolia. Derived from the Chinese ''baozi''. A set of 6 usually costs 1,200-2,000&nbsp;₮. * ''khuushuur'' (хуушууp) &mdash; Deep-fried stuffed flatbread with meat and onion, originally a festive dish but now ubiquitous. 3 or 4 will fill you up. * ''tsuivan'' (цуйван) &mdash; Fried noodles with meat and a few token vegetables, often served with ketchup on the side. Around 2,000-4,000&nbsp;₮ a serve. Horse, yak and beef are also eaten, and dairy products like ''byaslag'' (бяслаг), a mild, paneer-like fresh cheese, and ''öröm'' (өрөм), clotted cream, are also common. ''Aaruul'' (ааруул) dried curds are also a common snack: these are typically rock hard and have to be eaten by ''slowly'' dissolving them in your mouth, which eventually turns them into lumps of cheesy putty. [[File:Boodog made from a marmot.JPG|thumb|Preparing a marmot as ''boodog'']] For special occasions, ''boodog'' (боодог) or goat/marmot barbecue, is particularly worth experiencing. For about 15,000-20,000&nbsp;₮, a nomad will head out with his gun, shoot a marmot or a goat, and then cook it for you without a pot: the meat, vegetables, water and stones are cooked inside the skin of the animal. They skin it very carefully, and then tie off the holes at the legs and back side, put the food and hot stones inside, tie off the throat, and let it cook for about 30 minutes. Though rare, with only 692 cases of marmot plague recorded between 1928 to 2018, the Tarbagan marmot is known to carry the bubonic plague, but fatal cases tend to be those that partake in the consumption of raw marmot organs that are sometimes eatern separately from the ''boodog.'' Along the same lines is ''khorkhog'' (xopxoг), made of mutton, which is prepared like so: build a fire; toss stones into fire until red hot; place water, hot stones, onions, potatoes, carrots, and, finally, mutton chops, into a large vacuum-sealed kettle; let the kettle simmer over a fire for 30-60 minutes; open kettle carefully, as the top will inevitably explode, sending hot juices flying everywhere; once the kettle is opened, and all injuries have been tended to, eat contents of kettle, including the salty broth. This cooking method makes mutton taste tender and juicy, like slow-roasted turkey. Ask your guide if he or she can arrange one (but only during summer). ===Where to eat=== Ulaanbaatar has a cosmopolitan scene with plenty of international options, ranging from fine dining at the Kempinski to fast-food dumplings at [https://www.khaanbuuz.mn/ Khaan Buuz], the country's answer to McDonalds. The many Korean restaurants in particular are worth exploring. It is also the only place in the country where vegetarians can fairly easily find food, although tour agents can usually arrange vegetarian meals elsewhere with sufficient notice. In the countryside, the only dining option is often the ''guanz'' (гуанз), a roadside ''ger'' tent offering a simple menu, often only ''tsuivan'' noodles and salted milk tea. ==Drink== [[File:Mongolia 105.JPG|thumb|A milk pail in Mongolia]] The most common drink in Mongolia is '''salted milk tea''' (сүүтэй цай ''süütei tsai''), which is essentially a cup of boiled milk and water, sometimes with a couple pieces of tea leaf and/or a pinch of salt thrown in for good measure. A cup of this and a bowl of dried snacks is the first thing served when you visit a ''ger'', and it accompanies food at restaurants as well. The tea can be bulked up into a meal by adding in some toasted millet, rice, meat or bansh. You might want to build up your tolerance by drinking lots of milk in preparation for your stay because they don't drink much else, except perhaps boiled water if you specially request it during a longer stay. Also, most traditional nomadic foods such as dried yogurt and the like require acclimatization to milk as well. Cold drinks don't actually exist in the countryside (unless you intend to drink straight out of a river, generally not recommended). [[File:Homemade airag in Mongolia.jpg|thumb|A glass of homemade ''airag'', prepared in the blue plastic barrel in the background]] The national drink, though, is '''''airag''''' (айраг). Essentially the same as the Central Asian ''kumiss'', this is a summer seasonal drink made from fermented mare's milk, and is certainly an acquired taste. The alcohol content is less than that of beer, but can have noticeable effects. Be careful, if you aren't accustomed to drinking sour milk products, the first time might give you diarrhea as your stomach gets accustomed to it. This should only happen the first time though. Once you've completed the ritual, your digestive system shouldn't complain again. There are numerous ways to describe the taste, from bile-like to a mixture of lemonade and sour cream. The texture can also be offsetting to some people since it can be slightly gritty. It is worth keeping in mind that Airag is milk and a source of nutrients. After a day of riding it can actually be quite refreshing, once acquiring a taste for it. ''Airag'' is "microbrewed" locally, not commercially produced, but in season it's sold at stands including Gandantegchinlen Monastery and at the West Market in Ulaanbaatar. Much stronger than ''airag'' is '''''arkhi''''' (архи), a strong liquor distilled from milk and often called "milk vodka". Like vodka, the taste is quite neutral, and after you have your first shot of the vodka you won't feel anything, but a few minutes later it will get to your head. Most people in Mongolia usually drink this for medical reasons. First you heat up the vodka then put in a little bit of special oil which is also made from milk. Careful don't overheat it, you might get blind. Mongolians call their national vodka ''nermel arkhi'' ("distilled vodka") or ''changa yum'' ("tight stuff"). Many Russian-style vodkas are sold throughout the country. The best are '''Chinggis Khaan vodka''', '''Soyombo''' and '''Golden Chinggis'''. In Ulaanbaatar you can find most Western beers, from Miller to Heineken. They sell Budweiser -- not American Bud but the [[Czech Republic|Czech]] Budweiser. Local beer, such as Chingis, Gem Grand, Borgio or Sengur is fine. ==Sleep== Some '''western-style accommodation''' is available in [[Ulaanbaatar]], but it goes for western prices. There are a few nice guest houses in UB for less than US$10 per night (even as cheap as 3,000&nbsp;₮ if you're willing to share a room), but they are crowded during the tourist season and hard to get into. Out in the countryside, most of the hotels are rundown Soviet-era leftovers. A better option is tourist ''ger'', set up by entrepreneurial locals. Staying at one of these costs about ₮5000 per person per night. They often include breakfast and dinner as well. When staying in one of these guest ger, the usual gift-giving customs can be skipped. Finally, there are also '''ger-camps'''. Set up by tour companies, they do occasionally rent out space to independent travellers. Unfortunately, they tend to be both expensive (US$35 per person per night with 3 meals) and out of the way. To stay at a ger camp, use the online booking portals [https://ihotel.mn/ iHotel] and [http://www.mongoliagercamps.net Mongolian Ger Camps Network]. Except for the cities and larger towns, all land is publicly owned. This means you can '''pitch a tent''' pretty much anywhere. Courtesy dictates that you keep your distance from existing nomad encampments. Common sense dictates that you don't pitch a tent in the middle of or too close to a road. Nowadays, there are more than 300 hotels in Mongolia and these are graded between 1 and 5 stars. Hotels holding 3 stars or more are for tourist service and must obtain permission in order to operate. The Accommodation Grading Committee, consisting of the Ministry, travel industry associations and tourism researchers, rate an accommodation according to Mongolian standards. ==Learn== There are some '''language schools''' in the capital. The two most known to foreigners are Bridge School and Friends School. Both offer group study classes and individual tutors. Also, the [http://www.num.edu.mn/en/ National University of Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offers courses. It usually takes westerners about 9 to 18 months before they acquire good conversational abilities in Mongolian. Speakers of Korean, Japanese, and Turkic languages, like Turkish and Kazakh, tend to learn more quickly due to the similarities in grammatical structure. A Mongolian language school with a website is [http://mongolianlanguage.mn '''Nomiin Ger''']. ==Work== It can be difficult to find employment as a foreigner in Mongolia. Obtaining a work permit requires being sponsored by a Mongolian company and every company has a strict quota on the number of foreign nationals they may employ. Foreign nationals are not allowed to comprise more than 20% of a Mongolian company's workforce. This is as good as saying that the Mongolian government is reluctant to let foreigner workers compete with Mongolians. There is a huge demand for native English speakers as English teachers. Anyone who is interested in [[teaching English]] will have no trouble getting employment and a work visa through a school or organization. However, the pay is generally lower than in other countries. Though it'll usually be just enough for room and board plus a little extra. Local English-language media hire native speakers as editors, proof-readers and photojournalists. Volunteer work is available teaching English, assisting with charity work and joining archaeological digs. These jobs are easy to find and very rewarding. ==Stay safe== [[File:Sunset in Ulaanbaatar (6216619493).jpg|thumb|Sunset in Ulaanbaatar]] Mongolia is mostly a safe country to visit, but take care in nights and when alcohol is involved, and if venturing out away from shelter with risks of harsh weather. Women should be aware of problems common in conservative regions. [[Aggressive dogs]] may run in packs. Be wary of them since they are not likely to be as tame as domestic dogs elsewhere. Most fenced yards and gers have a guard dog that is usually all bark and no bite, though it is advised to make it aware of you so as to not surprise it, and carry a rock in case it does charge you. Manhole covers — or more precisely, the lack of such covers — is a surprisingly common cause of injuries among foreigners and (especially drunk) tourists. In smaller cities and outlying areas of the capital, there are many missing or poorly placed covers. Avoid stepping on any manhole and pay attention to where you walk. ===Crime and harassment=== Apart from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia is generally a safe place to travel. However, incidents of [[pickpockets|pickpocketing]] and bag slashing have occurred, so always keep your personal belongings in a safe place (money belts are highly recommended), especially in crowded areas or in places where your attention is diverted. Notorious places for theft are the Black Market (bazaar), the railway station and crowded bus stops. Unfortunately, xenophobia and violence towards foreigners is common. Alcoholism is a huge social problem and Mongolia has the highest rate of liver cancer in the world<!--according to www.wcrf.org and most other reputable sources-->. Do not acknowledge or approach any Mongolian man under the influence of alcohol. Many foreigners who go to bars and clubs at night report assault and general aggression. Mongolians are quite open people and tend to be curious and ask many questions just to be friendly. Try to answer diplomatically, and vaguely, especially relating to any perceived negative aspect of Mongolia. Violent crime is also common outside the capital city (Darkhan especially), so caution is required at night. In particular, dark or deserted alleys and streets should be avoided. Generally, if walking past 22:00, avoid people if at all possible. Mongolians can be very friendly, but their emotions and motives can change quite quickly. Someone who may genuinely just want to have a couple drinks with you may suddenly become aggressive regardless of your respect and polite actions. Corruption is a huge problem in Mongolia, and locals are convinced that the police are not to be trusted. There are small bands of Mongolian ultra-nationalist thugs that style themselves as neo-Nazis and have assaulted foreigners including whites, blacks, and particularly, Chinese. They are especially provoked by foreigner interaction with Mongolian women. They are mostly found in the capital, especially in the cheaper bars and nightclubs. Lone or female travelers need to exercise a higher degree of awareness of their surroundings, as getting groped in the chest or behind is not uncommon. Some actions like dancing close to a man will be seen as an open invitation, as Mongolians generally don't dance this way. === Weather conditions === Perhaps the biggest danger in Mongolia is the extreme weather. Owing to its large size, high elevation, proximity to [[Siberia]] in Russia, and its landlocked geography, Mongolian winters are incredibly harsh and temperatures can fall as low as -40° Celsius. That's why [[Ulaanbaatar]] is often dubbed the coldest capital city in the world. When visiting Mongolia in the winter, layer every article of clothing you own and '''do not''' walk around too much in the open. Frostbite is a real risk, and freezing to death is a possibility. If you are unprepared to deal with such weather conditions, visit Mongolia during the summer. === Driving === Driving in Mongolia can be dangerous, especially for those who are not used to driving in developing countries. Roads outside the capital tend to be in poor condition, and incredibly harsh weather makes things all the more difficult. In the capital, motorists can be aggressive and drunk driving is common. Take care when crossing roads or busy intersections. If you have little to no knowledge of Mongolian roads and driving around in isolated areas, it is '''strongly recommended''' that you do not drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Outside the capital, help is incredibly limited and you can get lost if you don't know what you're doing. If you must drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]], consider informing a trusted local about your plans. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Air pollution in ulaanbaatar.jpg|thumb|Air pollution in Ulaanbaatar]] * Nomads' dogs may have '''rabies'''. As a precaution, consider having a rabies shot before coming. * Marmots should not be eaten at certain times of the year because they can carry '''bubonic plague'''. That said, the disease is carried by the marmot's fleas so the afflicted tend to be fur traders, and marmot is not a mainstream dish even in Mongolia. * Hepatitis and tuberculosis are common throughout Mongolia. * '''[[Tap water]]''' is unsafe to drink. === Pollution === [[Ulaanbaatar]] has polluted air, largely due to pervasive coal-burning for domestic heating. If you suffer from a respiratory disease and plan to visit Mongolia in winter, consult a medical professional for advice. ==Respect== [[File:Jurte in der Mongolei.JPG|thumb|A common sight in the Mongolian countryside. If you have been invited to go inside one, accept it.]] Compared to other countries in Asia, Mongolians are generally straightforward. Expect someone to tell you exactly what they think and feel. Anti-China sentiment is high in Mongolia due to historiographical and cultural disputes, and because China is seen by Mongolians as a colonial oppressor. As such, refrain from wearing anything associated with China, and refrain from talking about China. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia is referred to as "southern Mongolia" by most Mongolians. Many Mongolians consider it to be Mongolian territory under Chinese occupation. Mongols traditionally live on the steppes, breeding horses, just like their ancestor Genghis Khan. Not surprisingly, following Western pleasantries will mostly not have the intended effect in Mongolia. Instead, try to follow local good manners. Always receive items with the '''right hand''', palm facing up. Drink from the right hand with the palm up as well. It is very rude to refuse a gift. If offered a plate of hospitality munchies, take at least a small nibble from something. Never point at anyone with your index finger since it implies disrespect. Whenever you approach a nomadic family, or enter a ger, you will, without knowing, break one or several of the many traditional, religious and superstitious customs. If you do become confused, don't panic, minor indiscretions will be tolerated and forgiven. The following do's and don'ts will help avoid offending anyone. === What to do=== * Say hello (sain bainuu) upon arriving (but repeating it when you see the same person is considered strange) * Take at least a sip, or a nibble, of the delicacies offered. * Pick up everything with an open hand, with your palm facing upwards. * Hold a cup by the bottom, and not by the top rim. * If by accident you tap someone's foot with yours, immediately shake hands with them (failing to do so will be seen as an insult). * Exchange pleasantries and engage in some small talk before asking someone for something. * Discuss one's family and the weather. In nomadic areas, asking about a nomad's animals is customary. * Discuss where you're from and what you're doing in Mongolia/the place you're visiting. * Show respect to elders and figures of authority. === What not to do === * Lean against a support column * Whistle inside a ger * Stand on, or lean over, the threshold * Stamp out a fire, or put water or any rubbish on it (fire is sacred to Mongolians) * Walk in front of an older person; or turn your back to the altar, or religious objects (except when leaving) * Take food from a communal plate with your left hand * Touch other people's hats * Do not have a long conversation in your own language in front of your hosts; make an effort to include your hosts. * Do not reject an invitation to visit a ger; hospitality is a cornerstone in the nomadic parts of Mongolia and outright rejecting an invitation will seriously offend the nomads. * Refuse food and drink offered by your hosts; as is the case in many Asian cultures, it is ''very rude'' to do this in Mongolia and shows no respect to your hosts. * Not finishing the food that has been offered to you; as is the case in many Asian cultures, wasting food is ''frowned upon''. * Urinate in lakes or bodies of water; water is considered sacred and holy in Mongolia. * Speak negatively about Genghis Khan. Most Mongolians revere him, and he is regarded as a national hero and the father of their nation. ==Connect== '''Internet cafés''' are less common than they were, but nicer restaurants provide Wi-Fi in the capital. The postal service is slow and most people have a PO Box if they want to get anything. It is possible to buy phone cards that can be used to call abroad very cheaply from domestic phones, but not all phones can do this. (You can ask for MiCom or MobiCom cards). In the countryside, cell phone carriers cover random villages. Between Mobicom, Unitel, and GMobile, all villages or Soum centers are covered. Internet cafés are plentiful in Aimag centers (provincial capitals) now, with all Aimag post offices having one, plus many smaller cafés. There is Internet in some Soums (villages), but this is rare, slow, and prone to frequent outages. To make local calls in Ulaanbaatar, use a phone of one of the many entrepreneurs with cellular telephones on the street corners. Expect to pay 150-200&nbsp;₮ per minute (June 2009 prices). ==Go next== ===To [[China]]=== From Ulaanbaatar, there are several options: Firstly, the international train. Tickets are sold in the ticket office in the VIP lounge on the second floor of the international ticket office across the street from the train station. The second option is to board the Hohhot international train and transfer at [[Erlian]] or [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]]. See the travel agency located on the 1st (ground) floor of the international ticket office for details. The third option is to take the daily train to [[Zamiin-Üüd]], Mongolia at the border and take a bus or jeep to China, then go to the bus or train station in [[Erlian]], China. ===To [[Russia]]=== There are buses and trains to [[Ulan Ude]], from where you can explore the [[Lake Baikal]] region or board the [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] in either direction. {{isPartOf|East_Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|47|104|zoom=5}} eq63sw613ic0egyf3fqdp01dl8yk7ae 5091321 5091319 2025-07-11T10:28:59Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091321 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mongolian_landscape_banner.jpg|disambig=yes}} '''Mongolia''' ([[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]: Монгол улс, Traditional Mongolian: [[File:Monggol_ulus.svg|40px]]) has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Its vast and majestic emptiness is the country's enduring appeal: it brings the traveller into a close communion with nature and its nomadic inhabitants. It is one of the last places on earth where nomadic life lives on. The most memorable part of a trip to Mongolia will be its hospitable people. Mongolian culture has much in common with the cultures of [[Central Asia]]. Mongolia offers great opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing, fishing and photography. Traveling across this huge country is often an adventure in itself. ==Regions== The country can be categorised into five regions based on culture and geography. These regions are further divided into 21 provinces (aimags) and one provincial municipality. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Mongolia regions map.png | regionmaptext=Mongolia regions | regionmapsize=450px | region1name=[[Central Mongolia]] | region1color=#72b970 | region1description=Includes [[Ulaanbaatar]] and the popular tourist region of [[Arkhangai]]. | region2name=[[Eastern Mongolia]] | region2color=#c16161 | region2description=The birthplace of Genghis Khan and heart of the Mongolian steppe. | region3name=[[Gobi]] | region3color=#d0c56c | region3description=As the name implies, home to the immense Gobi Desert. | region4name=[[Northern Mongolia]] | region4color=#7db1de | region4description=Contains many of Mongolia's forests and the massive [[Lake Khövsgöl]]. | region5name=[[Western Mongolia]] | region5color=#a77da5 | region5description=Home of Lake Uvs Nuur and Tavan Bogd Mountains, is also the most diverse region with a dozen different tribes including the Kazakhs. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#72b970|title=[[Central Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207809,Q234713,Q276195,Q23430}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c16161|title=[[Eastern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207795,Q239040,Q244804}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d0c56c|title=[[Gobi]]|wikidata=Q276200,Q213272,Q211835,Q192945,Q236333,Q235579}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#7db1de|title=[[Northern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q209774,Q18827,Q244788,Q234710,Q234680}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a77da5|title=[[Western Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q191792,Q194098,Q192942,Q167764}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|46.46|103.71|zoom=4|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ulaanbaatar]]|url=|lat=47.92|long=106.92|wikidata=Q23430}} (''Ulan Bator'', [[Mongolian]]: '''Улаанбаатар''') – the capital city and starting point for most travel in this country. Half the population lives here. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Choibalsan]]|url=|lat=48.078333|long=114.535|wikidata=Q318245}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чойбалсан''') – large industrial city in the east *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Erdenet]]|url=|lat=49.027778|long=104.044444|wikidata=Q230628}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Эрдэнэт''') – Mongolia's second largest city and home to one of the world's biggest copper mines and a famous carpet factory *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hovd]]|url=|lat=48.004167|long=91.640556|wikidata=Q731256}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Ховд''') – a historic city at the crossroads of traditional Mongol and Kazakh culture *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Karakorum]]|url=|lat=47.210278|long=102.847778|wikidata=Q62677}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Хархорум''') – the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, established by Genghis' son Ogedei *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Mörön]]|url=|lat=49.635556|long=100.155556|wikidata=Q572951}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Мөрөн''') – a stopover for those visiting [[Hövsgöl]] province, it has several museums and a large collection of deer stones outside of town *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ölgii]]|url=|lat= 48.968333|long=89.968611|wikidata=Q297060}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Өлгий''') – a town in Mongolia's far western corner, the starting point for visiting Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Tsambagarav National Park and the eagle hunters who live *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Öndörkhaan|Chinggis]]|url=|lat=47.323333|long=110.661111}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чингис''') – near the birthplace (and possible burial site) of Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tsetserleg]]|url=|lat=47.476944|long=101.450278|wikidata=Q529834}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Цэцэрлэг''') – the most pleasant of Mongolia's provincial capitals sits in a beautiful forested valley in the Khangay mountains ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khogno Khan National Park]]|wikidata=Q93828284}} — a beautiful, and calm area boasting cultural sites such as Kharkhorin, the capital of the Mongolian Empire after Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]|lat=48.55|long=88.616667|wikidata=Q932232}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Алтай Таван богд байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — the tallest mountain and largest glacier in Mongolia, with Kazakh '''Eagle Hunters''' living in its shadow and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Petroglyphs]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Uvs Nuur Lake|lat=50.3|long=92.7}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Увс нуур''), [[Uvs|Uvs province]] — the largest lake in Mongolia and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Uvs Lake]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve]]|lat=47.541|long=108.343|wikidata=Q5618269}} — an ecotourism destination *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]|url=|lat=48.150204|long=107.576006|wikidata=Q1266074}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Горхи-Тэрэлж'') — a national park 70 km east of Ulaanbaatar *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Khövsgöl]]|lat=51.1|long=100.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Хөвсгөл нуур'') — a large freshwater alpine lake *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Darhad Valley|lat=51.166667|long=99.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Дархадын хотгор'') — home to the Reindeer people *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khustain Nuruu National Park]]|lat=47.765|long=105.878333|wikidata=Q1639106}} (Mongolian: ''Хустайн нуруу'') — Khustain Nuruu or Hustai National Park is home to the Takhi wild horses (also known as Przewalski's Horse). These are true wild horses which have never been domesticated. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park]]|lat=43.802729|long=101.589663|wikidata=Q1533528}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Говь гурван сайхан байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — Khongor Sand dunes, Yol Canyon, Bayanzag-Red Flaming Cliffs, and Khermen Tsav ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMongolia.png}} {{quote|Everybody needs to go to Mongolia just to see what it is to be a human being again.|author=Milla Jovovich, American actress.}} Mongolia is one of the world's largest landlocked countries, second only to [[Kazakhstan]] and is surrounded by two of the world's largest countries: [[China]] and [[Russia]]. It was the center of the [[Mongol Empire]], the largest contiguous empire in world history. With only 1.7 people per square kilometre, Mongolia has the lowest population density of any independent country. The country is nicknamed the "Land of Blue Skies," and with good reason. There are said to be about 250 sunny days throughout each year. The weather is bitterly cold during the winter, dropping down to -40°C in some parts. With many types of terrain — from desert to verdant mountains — the weather during the summer varies from region to region, but is generally hot. Outside of the Gobi desert, this time of year is marked with much rain in some areas, and it can become quite cool at night. For several letters, the ISO&nbsp;9 standard '''transliteration''' of Cyrillic is not widely used and there is no consensus either in Mongolia nor in Wikivoyage. Particularly, the same Cyrillic letter "х" is transliterated "h" or "kh", the letter "ө" is transliterated "ô", "ö", "o" or "u", but Latin "o" is also the transliteration of the Cyrillic "о", and Latin "u" is also the transliteration of Cyrillic "у" and "ү" (the latter should be transliterated "ù" according to ISO&nbsp;9, but this is rarely done). So, if you can't find a name as you wrote it, try other spellings. ''Mongolia'' may have geopolitical, cultural and geographical meanings. Modern-day Mongolia consists of what was historically ''Outer Mongolia'' (so-called when it was part of China). [[Inner Mongolia]] is politically separate and remains a province of China, sharing a border and a common cultural heritage with modern-day Mongolia. ===History=== {{see also|Mongol Empire|Imperial China}} [[File:USMC-100903-M-1294R-001.jpg|thumb|300px|Statue of Chinggis Khan outside the capital]] The recorded history of ancient Mongolia dates to the third century BC when the Xiongnu came to power among many other nomadic tribes. Due to illiteracy and their nomadic lifestyle, little was recorded by the Xiongnu of themselves; they first appear in recorded Chinese history as "barbarians" against whom the walls were built. Those walls later became known as the [[Great Wall of China]]. The Xiongnu were eventually defeated by China's Han Dynasty in AD 89. Xiongnu history is controversial. Different historians attribute them to several quite different ethnic groups. Some claim that Xiongnu is cognate to Hun Nu or even that these are basically the same group known as Huns centuries later in Europe, but both claims are contested. There have been several empires in Mongolia after the Xiongnu. The first strong state to emerge was the First Turkic Khaganate in AD 552 with its capital at Ötüken (modern-day [[Ordu-Baliq]]). However, due to political infighting, this empire fragmented into the Eastern Turkic Khaganate with its capital at Ötüken, and the Western Turkic Khaganate with its capital at [[Suyab]] (near [[Bishkek]] in modern-day [[Kyrgyzstan]]), in AD 603. Both of these states were eventually defeated by China's Tang Dynasty; the Eastern Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 630, while the Western Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 657. The next strong empire to emerge was the Uyghur Khaganate, with its capital Har Bulgas (Khar Bulgas or Xar Bulgas) near Har Horin. The Khitans who controlled northern China around AD 1000 as the Liao Dynasty had an administrative centre (Har Bukh) 120&nbsp;km to the northeast. The Turkish government has been promoting some Turkish Empire monuments and there is a museum full of artifacts at the Bilge Khaan site. The struggle for mere existence and power over other tribes continued until the time of Genghis Khan. Chinggis Khan, as he is known in Mongolia, born with the name Temüjin, came to power and united the warring tribes under the Great Mongol Empire in 1206. He was proclaimed Genghis Khan (Chingis Haan), meaning ruler of all Mongol tribes, and to this day, Mongolians consider him to be the father of their nation. The Mongol Empire was extended all the way to what is now [[Poland]] and [[Hungary]] in [[Europe]] under Genghis Khan, and they also conquered the Jurchen Jin Dynasty that then ruled northern China. His grandson, Kublai Khan, subsequently defeated the Chinese Song Dynasty and completed the conquest of China, establishing the Yuan Dynasty. [[Marco Polo]] travelled through much of the Mongol Empire in Kublai Khan's time. The Mongols were, however, driven back to the steppes by the Chinese Ming Dynasty under Emperor Hongwu. They were later progressively conquered by the Manchu Qing Dynasty in the 17th century, and played an important role in the Manchu conquest of China. An independent Mongol nation only reemerged in 1924. It was not recognised by China until 1945, as the Chinese were forced to grant independence to Outer Mongolia by the Soviet Union, in exchange for Soviet assistance in fighting the Japanese invasion. Thus, the historic region of Mongolia was split into two, with Outer Mongolia becoming the independent nation of Mongolia, while [[Inner Mongolia]] remained a province of China. Since that time, Mongolia has had a close relationship with the Soviet Union (and [[Russia]] after the breakup of the Soviet Union), with Russian becoming the most widely-spoken foreign language in Mongolia. Mongolia even replaced its traditional script with the Cyrillic alphabet. (The traditional script, however, continues to be used by ethnic Mongols in China.) Inner Mongolia was the more populated area before the partition, and the number of ethnic Mongols living in China still outnumbers the population of Mongolia. Following independence, the Soviet Union installed a communist government in Mongolia. Following the fall of communism in Europe, Mongolia enacted democratic reforms, which resulted in the first democratic multiparty elections in 1990. The democratic reforms culminated with the first peaceful transfer of power in 1996, when the incumbent Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party lost the elections, and handed power to the victorious Democratic Union. Mongolia's vast collection of natural resources such as gold, copper, and coal can very easily make it one of the wealthiest countries on the planet, but due to its landlocked geography, dependence on the goodwill of [[China]] and Russia, governmental and bureaucratic inefficiencies, Mongolia remains one of the least developed countries in Asia. ''The Secret History of the Mongols'' is one of the great recordings of Mongolian history. Every Mongolian reads the book in the modern Mongolian language. This is one of the oldest books in the Mongolian language. There are vivid similarities with the Bible in literary style, wording and story-telling. It is speculated that the author could have been a Christian or at least was very knowledgeable about the Bible. According to Hugh Kemp, Qadag is the most likely candidate for authorship of ''Secret History of the Mongols''. He writes about the history of ancient Mongolia and connects the modern reality with the ancient world. Even though the book is about the history of Christianity in Mongolia, it paints a view of ancient Mongolia from the height of 21st century. The ''History of Mongolia'' by B. Baabar is a good source for the modern history of Mongolia. [[On the trail of Marco Polo]] covers some travel through the Mongol Empire in the time of Genghis' grandson, Kublai Khan. ===People=== Mongolia is more than twice as big as Texas and nearly the same size as Alaska. Its area is 1.6 million km² (603,000 square miles), four times the size of Japan and larger than Spain, France and Germany combined. This makes Mongolia the sixth-largest country in Asia and 19th in the world, but the population is only 3.4 million (as of 2020), which makes Mongolia one of the least densely populated areas in Asia. Considering that half of the population lives in the capital city of Ulan Bator or Ulaanbaatar ("UB") that leaves lots of room for you to travel in the outback. Of course, the Gobi is even less dense. Almost another 40% of the population are scattered all over Mongolia with their 56 million head of sheep, goats, cattle, horses and camels. There are 21 provinces, called ''aimag''. Each ''aimag'' has a central city or town and about 15-22 sub-provinces called ''soum'', so you will know which ''aimag'' and which soum you are in. 70% of Mongolia is under the age of 35. The gender ratio is close to 1:1. It is home to various ethnic groups: 84% Khalkha Mongols, 6% Kazakhs and 10% other groups. More than 50% will say they are Buddhists, which is very much mixed with Shamanism, close to 10% will claim to be Christians of all forms and 4% follow Islam, the remainder will say that they are atheists. Mongolian Buddhism is part of the Vajrayana school, which is also dominant in [[Tibet]] and [[Bhutan]]. Almost all the Kazakhs and Muslims live in [[Bayan-Ölgii|Bayan-Ölgii province]]. === Economy === Mongolia possesses abundant deposits of copper, coal, tin, tungsten, molybdenum, and gold. The cashmere industry is also an important industry; Mongolia and its neighbour, China, are responsible for 85% of the world's cashmere supply. Although that sounds impressive, Mongolia is a relatively poor and undeveloped country. With an economy that depends heavily on the mining sector and on the goodwill of its two large neighbours, the country's economy is highly vulnerable to external shocks. When the Soviet Union disintegrated in 1991, the Mongolian economy lost a third of its GDP overnight, plunging the country into a state of disarray. ===Holidays and festivals=== [[Image:Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Naadam festival celebrations]] The annual '''Naadam festival''' (11–13 July) is the biggest day in many Mongols' calendars. It is when Mongolia celebrates its "three manly sports": wrestling, horse racing, and archery by either watching the festivities in Ulaanbaatar or by following them on television or radio. Many other smaller Naadam festivals are also held in different aimags (provinces) throughout July, and these more intimate festivals may let you get much closer to the action. The Naadam celebrations are said to have started with the rise of the Great Mongolian Empire. Chinggis (a.k.a. Genghis) Khan used them to keep his warriors strictly fit. After the fall of the empire, the contests were held during religious festivals, and since the communist revolution it was celebrated on its anniversary. Legend has it that a woman once dressed like man and won the wrestling competition. That is why the long-sleeved wrestling costumes, called "zodog", have open chests - to show that every participant is male. Wrestlers wear short trunks, "shuudag", and Mongolian boots, "gutal". The yellow stripes on tales of wrestlers' hats will indicate the number of times the wrestler became a champion in Naadam. {{CNYdates}} Only Naadam gives official titles to the wrestlers. Mongolian wrestling tournaments have 9 or 10 rounds depending on the number of 512 or 1024 wrestlers registered for the competition that year. If the wrestler wins 5 rounds, he will be awarded title "Nachin" (bird), 6 rounds - Hartsaga (hawk), 7 rounds - Zaan (elephant), 8 rounds - Garuda (Eagle), 9 rounds - Arslan (lion) and 10 - Avarga (Titan). In 2006, Zaan (Elephant) Sumyabazar won 9 rounds that made him Garuda but that year 1024 wrestlers had 10 rounds which he won all. This entitled him to Avarga. Or Arslan (Lion) must win 2 in a row to become Avarga (Titan). The titles are for life. If Avarga (Titan) keeps winning at Naadam more and more attributes will be added to his title. There are no weight categories in Mongolian Wrestling tournaments but there is a time limit of 30 minutes, if the wrestlers can not overthrow each other, referees use lots for better position which often settles the match. One who falls or whose body touches the ground loses the match. Mongolian wrestling matches are attended by seconds whose role is to assist their wrestlers in all matters and to encourage them to win by spanking on their butts. They also sing praise songs and titles to the leading wrestlers of both wings, west and east, after 5 and 7 rounds. The referees monitor the rules but the people and the fans are the final judges. They will speak and spread the word of mouth about who is who till the next year. ====Smaller festivals==== *'''Tsagaan Sar''' (White moon) - starts on the Lunar New Year and is a 3-day public holiday. Its not big with tourists for the obvious reason of being during the coldest month of the year. A time when families reunite and have a large meal of sheep's tail, mutton, rice with curds, dairy products, and buuz. It is also typical to drink airag and exchange gifts. *'''Golden Eagle Festival''' in [[Ölgii]] on October 5th and 6th is the world's largest gathering of eagle hunters. The event typically has 60 to 70 Kazakh eagle hunters displaying their skills. The events include having their golden eagles fly to them on command and catching a fox fur being pulled by a horse from a perch on a nearby mountain. The event also features traditional Kazakh games including Kokpar (tug-of-war over a goat carcass while on horseback), Tiyn Teru (a timed race to pick up a coin on the ground while on horseback), and Kyz Kuar ("girl chase" a race between a man and woman where the woman whips the man while he tries to hold on). The festival also has a traditional Kazakh concert, camel race, and displays of Kazakh art. A smaller eagle festival is held on Sept 22nd in the nearby village of Sagsai. *'''Nauryz''' also in [[Ölgii]] is the traditional new year's celebration of Kazakhs held on 22 March. There is a parade, concert, and horse races during the several days of celebrating. Though most of the celebration involves visiting friends and relatives to eat Nauryz Koje (soup) and boiled mutton and horse meat. *'''Ice Festival''' is held on the frozen surface of Lake Hövsgöl outside of [[Mörön]] each February. The 2-day festival includes wrestling, reindeer sleighs and riding, ice skating, shaman rituals, folk concert, and cultural events of the Tsagaan reindeer people. You should be warned; It is ''very cold'' in Northern Mongolia in February. *'''Yak Festival''' on July 23rd in between [[Karakorum]] and [[Arvayheer]]. The festival celebrates this large mammal that thrives in the cold Mongolian winters with a full day of yak races, a rodeo, and other competitions. There is a market, tourist gers, and a whole temporary village set up in the middle of the steppe. *'''Camel Festival''' in South Gobi province: A local non-governmental organization that aims to protect and preserve the Bactrian camel population organizes "The Thousand Camel Festival" in Bulgan County, South Gobi Province. The festival includes two types of camel races, camel-polo, and some other competitions related to camel breeders' cultural heritage such as training of untamed camels, making ropes from camel wool and loading. There is also a folk concert by school children from the countryside. The festival is held annually March 6–7 for 2 days. ====Public holidays==== While most business still takes place on most holidays, Tsagaan Sar and Naadam tend to last much longer than the official 3 days. Work may stop for weeks in the countryside for Tsagaan Sar. Also, election days are always public holidays and dry days. Alcohol is not sold on election days or the 1st of each month nationwide. * New Years – January 1 * Tsagaan Sar – January/February (3 days, depends on Lunar New Year) * International Women's Day – March 8 * Soldiers' Day – March 18 (not a day off, just lots of parades) * Mothers' and Children's' Day – June 1 * Naadam Festival – July 11–13 * Genghis Khan's Birthday – November 14 * Independence Day – November 26 (no longer a day off, replaced by Genghis Khan's Birthday) '''Working hours''' are almost always posted in 24 hours. Shops are usually open 10:00 to 21:00 or 22:00, and sometimes closed or shortened hours on Sunday or Monday. Banks usually open 08:00 or 09:00 to 17:00, though often closed for an hour for lunch. However, posted times are not always reliable, especially in the countryside. Expect shops to open at maybe 10:15 or 10:30 more often than not. Restaurants typically close around 22:00, while bars stay open until midnight or later. There are a few fast food restaurants in the capital that stay open until 03:00, but no shops open past midnight. ===Climate=== [[File:Khövsgöl Aimag12.JPG|thumb|Steppe in [[Hovsgol]] — if you want to experience desolate landscapes, Mongolia has plenty of them.]] The ideal Mongolia travel season starts in May and peaks in July, during the Naadam holiday, and in August when the weather is most favourable for travelling. This is the best time if you like the culture and can bear the crowds of other tourists. It is not a good time to get away from your busy lifestyle because of the traffic, busy schedules, waiting in lines, etc. September is also a very good time to visit, and October is not too late to travel to Mongolia. It is still warm during the days but a bit chilly during the nights. In the autumn, Mongolia is not very crowded, and this is time for late-comers and last-minute, unplanned trips. You will get to sightsee, enjoy the culture, and taste mare's milk, a bitter and at first somewhat unpleasant drink, throughout the country. For visitors not afraid of cold or fermented mare's milk, travelling to Mongolia from November till the Lunar New Year remains an option. Winter tourism is a developing area of the Mongolian tourism industry. The most rewarding experience will be visiting the nomads, as this is the time when you will experience their culture first-hand during "Tsagaan Sar" or the traditional (Lunar) New Year celebration. Cultural activities including singing, dancing, wrestling, and winter horse racing are available to tourists. Mongolia is known to have 250-260 sunny days throughout the year, so you will need good [[Sunburn and sun protection|UV protection]]. During winter, protect your eyes, and during summer, protect your skin. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.mongolia.travel/ Mongolia Travel] website ==Talk== {{see also|Mongolian phrasebook|Russian phrasebook}} The official language of Mongolia is '''[[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]'''. Mongolian in Mongolia is written using the '''Cyrillic alphabet''', which was introduced around the 1940s. Mongolian Cyrillic uses all the letters used in the [[Russian]] alphabet and has two extra letters: '''Ө''' and '''Ү'''. Very few people know how to read and write Mongolian using the '''traditional Mongolian script''' (written from top to bottom, and still widely used by ethnic Mongols in China), although since the 1990s, it has been gradually regaining popularity. Mongolian belongs to the Mongolic family of languages, which also includes some minority languages of Russia such as Buryat and Kalmyk, and is not known to be related to any other language family. That being said, Mongolian shares a decent amount of words and grammar structures with the Turkic languages (Turkish, Uzbek, Kazakh, etc.) due to historical proximity, so speakers of a Turkic language will have a somewhat easier time navigating Mongolian. Loanwords from languages such as Sanskrit, [[Russian]], English, and [[Persian]] are common and are used in everyday conversations. Mongolian is widely regarded as a very difficult language for an English-speaker to learn. It is an agglutinative language that makes extensive use of suffixing, makes use of nine grammatical cases, and has a number of pronunciation rules and differences. Don't let this intimidate you, though; Mongolians will appreciate your efforts to speak their language, even if your knowledge of it is rudimentary. If you speak Japanese, Korean, Manchu or a Turkic language, some aspects of Mongolian grammar will be familiar to you. '''[[Kazakh phrasebook|Kazakh]]''' is spoken in the westernmost province of the country and by the small but growing population of ethnic Kazakhs living in Ulaanbaatar. Due to Mongolia's longstanding alliance with the [[Soviet Union]] (and [[Russia]] since the fall of the Soviet Union), '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' is spoken by many older Mongolians, although proficiency drops drastically outside Ulaanbaatar. '''English''' is the most popular foreign language among younger Mongolians, and is widely taught in schools. Outside the capital, little of it is spoken. ==Get in== Historically, Mongolia had a reputation for being a very difficult country to visit. Until the mid-1990s, you had to solicit an invitation letter from someone living in Mongolia to visit Mongolia. Lately, the visa rules have been relaxed and most people can enter the country without a visa. The Mongolian government declared the 2023-2024 tourist season the "Year of Mongolia", relaxing visa requirements for many countries, including all major Western nations. Whether this will become a permanent change is yet to be seen. ===Entry requirements=== [[File:New visa policy of Mongolia 2023.png|thumb|375px|Visa policy of Mongolia {{legend|#ed1c24|Mongolia}} {{legend|#22b14c|Visa-free (90 days)}} {{legend|#79d343|Visa-free (30 days)}} {{legend|#b5e61d|Visa-free (21 days)}} {{legend|#ffb583|Visa-free (14 days)}} {{legend|#ffd000|Visa on arrival (30 days)}} {{legend|#a1d4b0|eVisa (30 days)}} {{legend|#ababab|Visa required in advance}}]] Citizens of [https://en.consul.mn/visa/c/83 the following countries/territories]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} can enter Mongolia '''visa-free''': *'''For up to 90 days:''' [[Argentina]], [[Belarus]], [[Brazil]], [[Chile]], [[Ecuador]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Kyrgyzstan]], [[Macau]], [[Peru]], [[Serbia]], [[South Korea]], [[Ukraine]] (with an "official invitation") and [[United States]] *'''For up to 30 days:''' Citizens of [[Canada]], [[Germany]], [[Israel]], [[Japan]], [[Laos]], [[Malaysia]], [[Russia]], [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], [[Turkey]], [[Uruguay]], and [[Uzbekistan]], as well as the following for tourism until the end of 2025: [[European Union]] member states, [[Australia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Monaco]], [[New Zealand]], [[Norway]], [[Switzerland]], and [[United Kingdom]] *'''For up to 21 days:''' [[Philippines]] *'''For up to 14 days:''' [[Hong Kong]] Everyone else, however, must apply for a visa. Obtaining a visa — by default, the Mongolian authorities issue '''thirty-day visas''' to all tourists — is relatively straightforward and effortless. ==== Applying for a Mongolian visa ==== Although requirements vary from diplomatic post to diplomatic post, you are normally asked to submit the following to obtain a Mongolian visa: * A visa application form * A passport-sized photo * A passport with a validity of more than six months * A copy of your travel itinerary * A copy of your hotel reservation * A copy of your bank statement * A letter of invitation (if you intend to stay longer than 30 days in Mongolia) * A letter of approval from the government (only required if you plan to study, work, or live in Mongolia) Also, it is possible to acquire an expedited visa in a matter of hours at the Mongolian consulate in Erlian, though there is a steep US$50 fee for this service. A similar service is available in the Mongolian consulate in the Russian city of [[Irkutsk]]. The [http://www.embassyofmongolia.co.uk/ Embassy of Mongolia in the UK website] is useful for updates, with the [http://embassyofmongolia.co.uk/?p=186&lang=en visa page]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offering information on visa applications at the embassy. [http://beijing.mfa.gov.mn/?lang=en The Embassy of Mongolia in China website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} hosts the form you will need to apply for your Mongolian visa in China, although the consulate does have them. To stay more than 30 days, you have to register at the Mongolia Immigration. ===By plane=== [[image:MIAT Boeing 737-800 at ULN.jpg|thumb|MIAT plane in Ulaanbaatar]] Thanks to a booming mining sector, '''Chinggis Khaan International Airport''' ({{IATA|UBN}}) in [[Ulaanbaatar]] is now connected to some major airport hubs in eastern Asia and Istanbul and Frankfurt. Flag carrier [http://www.miat.com/ MIAT Mongolian Airlines]{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operates daily flights (during some peak season - twice a day) from [[Beijing]] and [[Seoul]], twice a week flights from [[Hong Kong]], [[Moscow]] and [[Tokyo]] (during some peak season - from Narita). During peak summer season it increases flight frequencies and operates flights from [[Busan]] and [[Osaka]]. There are branch offices in Berlin, Moscow, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo and Beijing. Mongolia-based [http://www.hunnuair.com/ Hunnu Air] flies 3 times a week from [[Bangkok]] and 5 flights a week from Hong Kong. There are almost daily flights from Seoul on Korean Air as well as other flights through Beijing, and 3 flights a week to [[Istanbul]]. It is also possible to fly to Ulaanbaatar through Tokyo's Narita Airport. ===By train=== [[image:Trans Mongolian Train 01.jpg|thumb|Trans-Mongolian train]] {{main|Trans-Siberian Railway}} The '''Trans-Mongolian Line''' of the legendary [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] links [[Ulaanbaatar]] with [[Moscow]], [[Russia]] and [[Beijing]], [[China]]. The Mongolian line branches from the main Trans-Siberian at [[Ulan-Ude]], so you'll need to break your journey there if coming from points east like [[Vladivostok]]. There is a small water boiler at the end of each train car which dispenses free hot water, so it's a good idea to stock up on instant noodles and tea for the trip. Also, don't expect to encounter any English-speaking staff on the train or in the stations. ====From Russia==== The Trans-Siberian train crosses the Russia/Mongolia border at the town of [[Naushki]], Russia. Trains start from [[Moscow]] or [[Irkutsk]] going to either Ulaanbaatar or Beijing, with several stops on both sides of the border. Between Irkutsk and the border are [[Ulan-Ude]], Naushki, Dozornoe, and Khoit. Between the Russian border and Ulaanbaatar are [[Sühbaatar]], [[Darkhan (city)|Darkhan]], and Zuunkharaa, with possible stops in [[Erdenet]] and Salkhit. ====From China==== [[image:WheelChanging.jpg|thumb|Changing wheels at the Chinese border]] Second class (hard sleeper) costs about US$200 (2011) from [[Beijing]] to [[Ulaanbaatar]], crossing the border at [[Erlian]]/[[Zamiin-Üüd]]. There are two trains a week and the ride takes almost 30 hours, including a mandatory stop of 3-4 hours at Erlian while the train bogies are switched between Russian broad gauge and Chinese standard gauge. You will have to take all your belongings and leave the train for this operation, and will be confined to the waiting area at Erlian station, even if you're inbound to China and have already passed through immigration. You can, however, ask staff for a free ticket that will let you step outside to raid the nearby shops and restaurants for supplies. =====Beijing to the border===== If the [[Beijing]] - [[Ulaanbaatar]] train is sold out, as seems to be common, or you need a more frequent option, you can make your way from Beijing to the border at [[Erlian]] by '''local train''' as described below, and then on to Ulaanbaatar by bus and train. As of March 2011, there are morning flights from Beijing to Erlian out of Capital Airport Terminal 1 costing only ¥160, which is cheaper than the bus. Trains run daily from Beijing to [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]] or [[Hohhot]]. You can change there for a train to the border town of [[Erlian]] near the Mongolian-Chinese border. The K89 leaves Beijing in the morning and arrives at Jining in the evening. Jining has many hotels near the train station and has karaoke bars to keep you entertained while you wait. From Jining to Erlian there is a slow train that leaves in the morning, passes the Great Wall multiple times, and arrives in the early evening. This will take a night longer than getting the sleeper bus as described in "By bus". =====Crossing the border===== Be wary of scams at the border where people in uniform will attempt to sell you "required travel insurance." There is no such thing and you can safely ignore them. You should then cross the border from [[Erlian]] in China to [[Zamiin-Uud]] in Mongolia as described in [[Erlian#To and from Mongolia|Erlian to and from Mongolia]]. Once you have crossed the border, you will need to get from Zamiin-Uud to Ulaanbaatar as described in [[Zamiin-Uud#Get in|Zamiin-Uud get in]]. ===By car=== Many adventurous people drive to Mongolia, usually starting somewhere in Europe. [http://www.theadventurists.com/the-adventures/mongol-rally The Mongol Rally] and [http://mongolia.charityrallies.org/ Mongol Charity Rally]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} sponsor many of them. Driving to Mongolia can be extremely challenging in many respects. Not only are there virtually no roads in the western half of Mongolia, but vehicle registration, import fees and paperwork, visas and everything have to be ready for every country along the way. For those who still wish to make the journey by car, there are 4 land border crossings with Russia and 3 with China. Though it is much more expensive and difficult to drive through, into, or out of China in your own car. :*See '''[[Driving in China]]''' for issues for driving to Mongolia from China. ====From Russia==== The main border is in Altanbulag-Kyakhta ([[Sühbaatar]]), nearest to the capital, is open 24 hours a day. In the far west is the Tsagaannuur-Tashanta crossing in [[Bayan-Olgii]], is open Monday to Saturday 09:00-18:00 and is the most popular with adventure drivers. Also in the west is Borshoo-Khandgait crossing between [[Uvs]] and [[Tuva| Tuva Republic]], is open Monday to Friday 09:00-18:00. In the east, Ereentsav-Solovyovsk crossing near [[Choibalsan]] is open daily 09:00-18:00. ===By bus=== There is a paved road connecting Ulaanbaatar to the Chinese border, and one between UB and Russia. ====From Russia==== *Those interested in saving money can book one-way elektrichka (regional train) tickets from Irkutsk or Ulan Ude to Naushki. In Naushki, one can spend the night in the train resting rooms (komnati otdikha) for US$0.50 per hour. From there, it is possible to take a marshrutka to the land border crossing town of [[Kyakhta]], Russia. Walking across the border is prohibited, but travellers have no problems arranging for Mongolia-bound cars to take them across the border, for either a small fee or free. Upon crossing into Mongolia it is relatively easy to hitchhike, taxi, or bus to [[Sühbaatar]] or UB, as all southbound traffic is headed towards those cities. *From the west, from Russia, it is possible to cross at the land border in Tsagaannuur, Bayan-Olgii. There are daily petrol and wheat-carrying Russian Kamaz trucks headed to Olgii and it is possible to hitchhike to Tsagaannuur or even [[Olgii]]. Regular buses and marshrutkas also operate from the border, though service is unpredictable due to the lack of a schedule. There is also a bus every 10 days between either [[Astana]] or [[Almaty]], [[Kazakhstan]] and Olgii. ====From China==== * Liuliqiao long-distance bus station (六里桥客运主枢纽 or lìu lǐ qiáo kè yùn zhǔ shū nǐu), phone +86 10 8383–1716, address: A1, Liuliqiao Nan Li, Fengtai District. Departure at 16:30. These are supposed to run daily, but may not. You can phone at 10:00 on the morning of departure to see if the bus is running and to reserve a place. * Muxiyuan long-distance bus station (木樨园才华长途汽车站), phone +86 10 6726–7149, location: go to Liujiayao Metro Station and get a cab. Departs at 17:00. * Lizeqiao long-distance bus station (丽泽桥长途汽车站), phone (丽泽桥长途汽车站) Address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东 +86 10 6340–3408, address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东. Location is difficult to get to. Departs at 17:00. From [[Hohhot]] by bus costs 88 Chinese yuan and takes 6-7 hr. There are several daily buses. Once in Erlian, follow the '''Crossing the border''' and '''From the border to Ulaanbaatar''' steps above. Should you be travelling at a busy time (e.g., around Naadam on the 11th and 12th July) and want to be sure of getting tickets for the last leg of the trip in Mongolia, you could take one of the packages from the guesthouses in Beijing. These cost around 570 yuan (July 2009) and include a taxi to the coach station in Beijing, Beijing to [[Erlian]] by sleeper coach, a bed in the hotel in the bus station for a few hours, a bus from Erlian to [[Zamiin-Üüd]] across the border, then soft sleeper overnight from Zamiin-Üüd to [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Purchased separately, the tickets cost about 360 yuan. The Saga guesthouse in Beijing sells these, and although they insist till they're blue in the face that the train is a hard sleeper, it's actually a soft sleeper! ===By bicycle=== At Zamiin-Uud you have to put your bicycle in a car. You are not allowed to cycle through the 3-km-wide border area. Prepare to bargain. They will start at US$100 and more. You should be able to get them down to US$20 or less. If you are lucky and get up early, you might catch a truck. They will take you for free. Usually you have better chances with Mongol drivers, if you want to cross into Mongolia. At Altanbulag you also have to put the bicycle in a car, but prices are reasonable and usually fixed. Enjoy watching your driver smuggle goods in or out of Mongolia. ===By thumb or foot=== The road passes through the border town of [[Zamiin-Üüd]] and continues to Ulaanbaatar. Hitchhiking in Mongolia is not easy and a little bit of money for the driver is expected. There is an average of one car every hour heading into the desert. Rules at the border require that you ride a bus or car across the border, not walk across. However, they do not care how you get there or where you go afterwards. ==Get around== If you plan to travel around the countryside without a guide, take a [[GPS]] and some maps. The "Mongolia Road Atlas" is available in many book shops, it has over 60 pages and covers the whole country: there is a Latin-character version and Cyrillic-character version, in the countryside most people won't understand the Latin version. More detailed maps are available at the Mongolian Government Map Store. These maps are 1:500,000. Also, some other special-purpose maps and a good map of downtown Ulaanbaatar. The map store is on Ih Toiruu St. Go west from the State Department Store on the main street, called Peace, Peace and Friendship, or Ekhtavan Ave., two blocks to the large intersection with traffic lights, turn right (north) and the map store is about halfway along the block. There is an Elba electronic appliance store set back from the street, a yellow and blue building, the next building is a 4-story, Russian-style office building, the map store entrance is on the west side, toward the south end of the building. It lines up with the north wall of the Elba building. Whichever the method of long-distance travel, keep in mind that everything in Mongolia has a tendency to break down. Don't be shocked if part of the suspension breaks and the driver jerry-rigs a carved wooden block in the place of a mount. For more serious breakdowns, it can easily take an entire day or longer for somebody to come along and help, so leave plenty of slack in itineraries. Finally, Mongolians are rather notorious for being late. A bus that is scheduled to leave at 08:00 will probably not be out of the city until almost 11:00. The entirety of the country is public property, and - especially in the winter - drivers will simply peel off the paved roads and chart their own paths to get to a certain destination. Often, many of the destinations are not near any permanent roads, requiring this off-roading to get to them. If driving off-road, take extra care to ensure that you have the proper supplies and knowledge to survive in the event your vehicle breaks down or gets stuck. It is also highly recommended to have a guide who knows the area and/or a strong knowledge of Mongolian with which you can converse with local nomads to inquire where exactly your destination is and how to get to it. ===By plane=== [[image:AeroMongoliaFokker50.jpg|thumb|An AeroMongolia plane]] The easiest way to travel long distance is via one of the domestic airlines: AeroMongolia or Hunnu Air. Almost all flights are between Ulaanbaatar and the Aimag centers. Except for mines in the south Govi and [[Choibalsan]], which use Boeing 737s, most flights use turboprop regional planes. AeroMongolia uses a two-tier price structure, charging foreigners significantly more than locals, while Hunnu has only one price. Other than price, there is little difference between the airlines. Air travel agents, guest houses and hotels can help you to obtain domestic air tickets in Mongolia. *{{listing | name=AeroMongolia | url=http://aeromongolia.mn/ | email=reservation@aeromongolia.mn | address= | lat= | long= | directions=1st floor, Monnis tower, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 11 330373 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-18:00; Sa 10:00-18:00 | price= | content= It is generally cheaper, but uses older planes and charges foreigners double the local rate. }} *{{listing | name=Hunnu Air | url=http://hunnuair.com/ | email=info@hunnuair.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= Chinggis avenue 10-1, Sukhbaatar district, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 7000 1111 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Formerly Mongolian Airlines. }} ===By train=== There is only one railway company in Mongolia, owned by the Russian and Mongolian governments, "Mongolian Railway". It is probably the best way to experience something of the communist time, even if it has evolved a bit since then. Ulaanbaatar railway agents more often consider the passenger as a potential rulebreaker than as a client. The railway network is poor, consisting mainly of the Irkutsk-Ulaanbaatar-Beijing Trans-Mongolian way with a few extensions. Trains are extremely slow. They usually leave on time, and arrive on time or less than 20 minutes late. Intercity bus routes on the roughly parallel paved roads will get you there much faster. The local trains stop at many small stations in the countryside. For example, there is the small town of Batsumber, located about 34 km north of Ulaanbaatar (as the crow flies), longer on the train. Take your camping gear and hike to the mountains about 10 km east of the town. There are two streams flowing west out of the mountains, hike and camp along the streams. There is a small restaurant, and food shops in the town. ====Train tickets==== It's possible to pay for train tickets by credit card. For online booking of train tickets, go to the [https://eticket.ubtz.mn/ official website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (an English version is available, but not all the information is translated). The website is not the most user-friendly, but fortunately [http://wandersimply.com/how-to-buy-mongolian-train-tickets-online/ Wander Simply] has a good write-up on how to navigate the site and buy tickets. Alternatively, contact the company [http://www.traintomongolia.com Train to Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to buy tickets at a commission. You pay an extra fee if you book in advance, and also an extra fee if you buy it in the train, which is the only possibility left if there are less than 10 minutes left before the train departure. Your passport is required to buy a ticket, but you can buy several people's tickets with one passport. There are 3 classes: "coupé", "sleeping", and "public" (translated into English by "economic" by the company). "Coupé" is the only one with doors. In "public" it's possible to have to spend the night sitting and even with little space on crowded days. The tickets are numbered, but, when the seats are exhausted, the company overbooks public seats with tickets numbered "0", at the same price. The "public" seats tickets are much cheaper (and much slower) than the coach, minivan and taxi competitors. In a coupé at night, you'll be charged for compulsory additional bed sheets inside the train. ====Inside a train==== You will be proposed drinks and Mongolian food inside the train, both by official sellers of the company and, at the big stations with long stops, by private people entering the train for that purpose. There are many conductors. Don't expect them to speak anything other than Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. Theft is rare on Mongolian trains, but keeping an eye on your belongings is generally a good idea. There are police on every train. On a long trip, your ticket will be checked repeatedly, and you'll be awakened throughout the night for that. However, nobody will wake you if you have to get off during the trip, but if you get off at the terminus, you'll be awakened, even more than one hour before arrival, depending on the agent. The '''train toilets''' close 30 minutes before the terminus, and sometimes even before that. ===By bus=== [[File:Juulchin Tourism Corp 12.JPG|thumb|Tourist bus in the [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]]] Travelling by local bus is also an option, though these buses tend to only connect the provincial capital with UB, and it is quite difficult to find any public transportation linking one provincial capital with another. Lately the bus situation has improved. Most cities and towns are referred to in two ways, their name or the name of the Aimag (province) or Soum (county), e.g. Dornod or Dornod Aimag or Choibalsan (the actual city name). Most buses have their destination on a card in the front window. If you have either name written down in Mongolian Cyrillic, show it to the drivers or helpers and they will get you on the right bus. There are two types of buses, microvans and large buses (some large buses are old Russian types and some are modern western types), depending on the road. The large buses run on schedule, but the micro-buses are much more lax. In Ulaanbaatar, there are two bus stations, one on the west near the Dragon Shopping Center and one on the East near the Botanical Gardens. Both stations are on Peace Avenue on opposite sides of the city. Multiple buses run between them. Get local to write directions. For the large buses buy your tickets the day before. In the Aimag centres, there will be service to Ulaanbaatar and to local soums (small county seats) and usually the next Aimag center. However, all locations may not be available at one location. Ask for help from the locals. For example, in Ondorkhaan, the capital of Khentii Province, there is a bus service between Ondorkhaan and UB from a central bus station, however the through buses going to/from UB to Dornod and Sukhbaatar Aimags (Choybalsan and Baruun-Urt) will stop at a gas station on the north side of the city. ====Bus tickets==== Tickets are sold in the station, not in the coach. Don't expect any cashier, driver or conductor to speak anything but Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. It's not possible to pay by credit card. Your passport is required to buy a ticket. If you have a luggage exceeding the standard (written in your ticket) in weight or size, you'll be asked for an extra fee by the conductor. You can negotiate this one. ====Inside a bus==== On some routes, the driver and the conductor illegally add extra passengers and pocket the cash. They might even try to make 3 people sit on 2 seats, for instance: you can protest in such a case. Your ticket gives you the right to a full seat and this is what you get in most coaches. The coach will usually stop for a rather quick lunch or dinner at a local snackshop or canteen. ===By minivan=== Public countryside taxis and minivans, often called purgon or mekr, offer more destinations than coaches and many more than train, especially between provinces. They are more dangerous than coaches and trains, and always overloaded. Most drivers don't respect the traffic rules. Countryside taxis and minivans leave when full. They always say they will go "now" ("odo") despite often departing hours later. See how many people are already sitting inside the vehicle to have an idea of how long you'll wait. Drivers also usually promise to pick up additional passengers and cargo before leaving town. ===By chartered jeep=== [[image:Mongol cable ferry.jpg|thumb|River ferry in Hovsgol]] It is also possible to charter a Jeep and driver for private use. Prices are typically negotiated by the kilometre. While far more expensive than sharing a ride with the locals, this means of transport is considerably more convenient and allows you to visit more remote sites. It can also be quite convenient to hire a guide to use during the length of your stay. Doing so can allow you to travel without worrying about taxi drivers overcharging by up to 10x for being a foreigner. ===By car=== One of the most convenient ways to get around is by car. This isn't to say that it's completely safe, however. Road accidents are very common in Mongolia, largely because of reckless driving habits. Drivers do not obey traffic rules and speeding is common. Many cars are in poor condition and not all of them are fitted with seat belts. The road network is narrow and generally in poor condition. Avoid driving at night, as most roads are unlit and may have obstacles and potholes. ===By taxi=== In the cities, taxis should charge about 1500&nbsp;₮ per km. The drivers will set their trip meter and charge accordingly. ===By horse=== For local travel, horse-back is a good option. Mongolians ride on wooden saddles, so if you value your buttocks it's probably a good idea to pick up a leather, Russian saddle in UB. ===By foot=== Walking is another great alternative. Since camping is possible anywhere, resting is never a problem. Wherever there is water, there are nomads, and if you stick to the major dirt roads you will encounter plenty of guanz, which can provide huge cheap meals to keep you going. Adopting the Mongolian style of sleeping outdoors is also an option: wrap yourself in wool blankets and then cover yourself with a Russian raincoat (essentially a tarpaulin in the form of a trench coat), and simply plop yourself down on the ground. One night sleeping this way gives a whole new appreciation for the wonders of sleeping bags and bivvy sacks/tents. ==See== [[image:Gandan Monastery 10.JPG|thumb|Monk at the Gandan Monastery]] Mongolia is a big country that has been beyond the reach of travellers and the normal trappings of civilization until the 21st century. Even today it can be difficult to travel between the few places that 'exist'. There is little noteworthy architecture in the country. Except for the short-lived capital of the Mongol Empire at '''[[Karakorum]] (Kharkhorin)''', the descendants of Genghis Khan left little evidence of their power inside their native homeland. Genghis Khan, who leveled cities from the Yellow Sea to the Caspian, was said to have only built one permanent building during his life, a warehouse to store his stupendous amount of loot. ====Archaeology==== [[File:BuddhaErdeneZuuMonasteryMongolia.JPG|thumb|Buddha at Erdene Zuu]] Though this structure no longer exists, the capital built by his son, Ögedei, does, as do countless artifacts in the National Museum in [[Ulaanbaatar]], and thousands of stone monuments and drawings spread throughout the country, some dating back thousands of years. After the gradual disintegration of the Mongol Empire, many Tibetan Buddhist monasteries were built, providing the most visible signs of Mongolia's history. Today only a few still stand after Stalinist religious purges. Of particular note is the '''[[Northern Mongolia|Amarbaysgalant Monastery]]''' in Selenge, the '''Erdene Zuu Monastery''' in Kharkhorin, and '''Gandan Monastery''' in Ulaanbaatar, all active religious sites with large numbers of resident lamas. During the communist era, the Soviets helped establish large modern cities and modern industries, which aren't very pretty, but are of some interest, particularly the biggest open-pit copper mine in Asia at [[Erdenet]]. For a country that prides itself on its nomadic heritage, there are a surprising amount of ruins of stone structures (and even cities) scattered about Mongolia. With the exception of Kharkhorin, practically none of these are anywhere near a paved road, but their isolation makes their grandeur even more impressive. People interested in the ethnogenesis of the Turkic peoples will not want to miss the '''Orkhon Inscriptions''' in the Orkhon Valley (about a 40 minute drive north of Kharkhorin). These two massive stone stelae contain the oldest written Turkic language, and serve as a sort of Rosetta Stone for the reconstruction of both Old Turkic and Proto-Turkic. The Turkish government has funded a nice museum on the site and a paved road from the museum to Kharkhorin, making the inscriptions easily accessible to travellers. =====Monasteries===== Before the religious purges, Mongolia had around 750 monasteries and was a theocracy. Many were destroyed, while some were turned into museums by the communists to display Mongolian art or the opulence of the former religious leaders. Today the '''Choijin Lama Monastery''' and the '''Bogd Khan Winter Palace''' are preserved as museums for the art of the Lamas and the toys of the former king. Other ancient monasteries are slowly reopening and recovering like the Amarbaysalant in Selenge Province or the Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar. Most monasteries today are small, newly built temples in towns that didn't even exist before the purges. =====Museums===== Besides the monastery museums, Ulaanbaatar hosts several interesting and noteworthy museums to see before going off to the countryside. The best one by far is the '''National Museum of Mongolia''' with large collections of artifacts from the Mongol Empire through the Democratic Revolution of 1990. The '''Chinggis Khaan Museum''' in Ulaanbaatar offers an even larger collection, although it only spans prehistory to the Qing Empire. Several other good art museums and lesser history and nature museums also exist in the city if you will be there for an extended time. Outside of the capital, every provincial center also has a small museum usually built by the communists and mostly not updated since they left. These museums are cheap and do have useful displays on local cultures and history. There are also some '''communist-era sites'''. ====Nature==== One thing that does look much the same as it always has is the unspoiled nature of Mongolia. Due to its very low population density, the lowest in the world, it is possible to travel days with only seeing the occasional nomadic herder interrupting endless rolling steppes, the vast [[Gobi]] desert, or the snow-capped Altai Mountains. Up north, Siberian forests surround the 2nd largest freshwater lake in Asia by volume, Hôvsgôl (or "Hövsgöl") lake, in [[Hövsgöl]] province, which is very beautiful. The '''Flaming Cliffs''' near [[Dalanzadgad]] are stunning just to see, but also contain some of the earliest and most important dinosaur discoveries. ====People==== The most memorable part of any trip to Mongolia, regardless of what drew you here, will certainly be the people. Mongolians are incredibly hospitable to guests. No trip here is complete without having dinner or staying the night with '''nomadic herders'''. Around a third of the population still earns a living as semi-nomadic herders living in gers (yurts) on the open steppe. While their diets are not very diverse, consisting of meat, flour, and dairy, they will seek to serve guests a feast of boiled or fried meat and hot milky tea, with traditional entertainments of music, singing, and maybe dance. There is some variation depending on which tribe or region, with Kazakhs near [[Ölgii]] being the most different with different language, diet, and dress, including the practice of '''eagle hunting'''. While the Tuvans have a beautiful, eerie singing style of throat-singing, and the Tsaatan people live isolated lives herding reindeer near Lake Hövsgöl. Then there are the Lama monks who are increasingly common in monasteries and elsewhere, and the '''Shaman priests''', who practice the ancient animist religions of worshiping nature and the earth, and are widely respected in Mongolia. ==Do== [[image:Mongolian honor guard procession.jpg|thumb|Mongolian honor guard]] Experiencing the culture and having a meal or spending the night with a nomadic family are authentic Mongolian experiences. Whether you go just outside of the capital or fly to the far corners of the country, this is the most memorable part of any trip. There are some variations on the experience, depending on the tribal group. The '''[[Trans-Siberian Railway]]''' passes through the country. Also follow the path of [[On the trail of Marco Polo|Marco Polo]] across Europe and Asia into Mongolia to visit the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in [[Karakorum]]. Mongolia is the least densely populated country in the world and has very little development of any kind outside of the capital and a few small towns. There often aren't even roads connecting these towns. This pristine setting means that Mongolia has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Traveling across this vast country is often an adventure in itself with tourists and adventurers alike going by car, motorcycle, bike, horse, camel, or foot. Most often this means camping on the shore of a river or with a nomadic family or in small roadside hotels in provincial towns. Along the way or on one of the many wild rivers and nature preserves, there is great fishing, particularly fly-fishing during the summer. Climbing the mountains in the west is popular as well as photographing the wildlife, flora, or the multitude of birds living or migrating through Mongolia. * Canoe down some of Mongolia's major rivers. * Listen to traditional Mongolian '''throat singing'''. * Visit reindeer herders, such as the Tsaatan Community, which is west of Khovsgol lake. Several tour companies sell tours to visit the reindeer herders living in high alpine mountains. To get there, ride horses from Tsagaannuur or Rinchinlhumbe. You need to get a border permit in UB or Murun before starting the tour. Most licensed tour companies can get the border permit if you provide your travel details in advance. Horse-trekking can be hard and long. But it's worth traveling there. * Local Bonda Lake Camp in Khatgal village near Lake Khovsgol offers fishing, hiking, winter tours, nomad visits, horseback riding, visiting reindeer herders and the Darhad valley. Horse riding, you can discover Lake Khovsgol and its beautiful waters, meet Tsataan (nomadic reindeer herders) living in gers in the north of Khovsgol area. This region is incredibly scenic, perched at 1645 m altitude in green mountains, covered with thick pine forests and lush meadows with grazing yaks and horses, and rich with wildlife: the lake has 9 species of fish and its surroundings are full of sheep, goats, elk and more than 430 species of birds. There are 5 Mongolian tribes nearby: Khalh, Darhad, Buriad, Hotgoid, and Urianhai. The camp has a hot shower, sauna, internet and a restaurant with Mongolian and European meals. *{{do | name=Mountain Climbing | alt= | url= | email= | address=All over Mongolia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Best to climb the highest peaks in July and August | price= | content=While much of the country is rolling steppe, there are several mountain ranges. The Altai Mountains in the west have several peaks of over {{ft|13,000}} up to {{ft|14,201}} in [[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]. The highest mountains have snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and require special equipment and experienced guides. Smaller mountains throughout the country can be hiked in an afternoon, including many surrounding the capital of Ulaanbaatar. }} ===Winter activities=== *{{listing | type=do | name=Join Kazakh eagle hunters on a hunt | alt= | url= | email= | address=In [[Western Mongolia]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=During the cold winter months, the Kazakhs in western Mongolia use eagles to hunt for foxes and hares, which are easier to see against the snow. Freezing temperatures and long days on Mongolian or Kazakh horses discourage most people from attempting this adventure. For those who do, seeing an eagle released from a man's forearm swoop down and kill a fox a mile away is an unforgettable experience. }} *Skiing: There is one ski resort outside of Ulaanbaatar with a ski lift, equipment rentals, instructors, and all the other features of a ski resort. The lift may be slow, and the runs a bit hard, but it does provide good entertainment for those visiting UB during the long, cold winter months. For more adventurous types, western Mongolia's large mountain ranges provide great '''back-country skiing'''. The spring months of April and May get the most snow and make the best skiing. Either join a tour or lug all of your own equipment. There aren't any ski shops in the nearby villages. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mongolian tögrög | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;₮ | date=January 2025 | USD=3,600 | EUR=4,200 | GBP=4,900 | CNY= | RUB=3,362 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mnt-mongolian-tughrik/ XE.com] }} The Mongolian currency is the '''tögrög''' (also spelled "tugrik", "tugrug" etc.; Mongol: төгрөг), denoted by the sign "'''₮'''" (ISO international currency code: '''MNT'''). You may also see the notations "tg" and "T". Banknote denominations in circulation are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000&nbsp;₮. It is virtually impossible to exchange tögrög outside the country, so don't exchange too much. US dollars are widely accepted in the tourist industry, especially for larger payments (hotels, guides, etc.), but are not usable in the countryside. ===Tipping=== In Mongolia tipping is rarely expected except in tourism-related services like tour guides. Waiters, taxis, and hotel attendants do not expect tips. Sometimes taxis will attempt to overcharge you by refusing to give change back, but this has nothing to do with gratuity. Some nicer restaurants and hotels in the capital do often add fees to the bill for service, especially for larger groups. ===Shopping=== *Mongolian cashmere is known as the best in the world, so consider buying garments and blankets from one of the many stores selling cashmere products. *Mongolia is famous for its copper mines Erdenet and Oyu Tolgoi. A copper bookmark might make an ideal souvenir and you can easily find this US$1 metal souvenir in Ulaanbaatar souvenir shops. *'''Kazakh embroideries''' made in [[Ölgii]] using traditional Kazakh designs are sold in many gift shops in Ulaanbaatar. *'''Paintings''' by local artists are excellent buys in Mongolia. *You can find '''felt poker-work''' in [[Erdenet]]. *It is illegal to take '''antiques''' out of the country without a special permit. *The huge open-air market, '''Narantuul''' ("The Black Market") in Ulaanbaatar offers the lowest prices on just about anything you could want. Beware of the many pickpockets and even attackers there. This can be a great place to get a good pair of ''riding boots''. You can opt for a variety of Mongolian styles, from fancy to the more practical, or even get a good set of Russian-style boots. *Mongolia is justly famous for its [[carpets]]. [[Erdenet]] is home to Mongolia's largest carpet factory, also making and selling slippers made of carpet, though its carpets are made by machine, not traditional methods. For traditional carpets, visit a local market, including the famous Black Market in [[Ulaanbaatar]]. ===Grocery shopping=== ''Prices as of April 2018:'' * Bread (1 loaf) - 1,600 ₮ * Bottled water (0.5 liter) - 600 ₮ * Beef (1kg) - 9,500 ₮ * Yogurt (0.45kg) - 1,600 ₮ * Beer (0.5 liter) - 2,000 ₮ to 5,000 ₮ * Milk (1 liter) - 2,350 ₮ * Potato (1kg) - 1,050 ₮ * Onion (1kg) - 1,550 ₮ * Coffee (0.8kg) - 12,000 ₮ * Banana (1kg) - 4,500 ₮ * Grape (1kg) - 11,000 ₮ * Apple juice (2 liters) - 5,000 ₮ * Eggs (10) - 4,450 ₮ ==Eat== {{infobox|Un-Mongolian barbecue|Boiled mutton? Aren't Mongolians famous for barbecue? Sadly, no: "Mongolian BBQ" was invented in Taiwan in the 1970s. Due to tourist demand, there is one Mongolian BBQ place in Ulaanbaatar now, but it's run by an American!}} [[File:Dishes_of_Mongolian_cuisine.jpg|thumb|The Mongolian trifecta: ''khuushuur'' fried dumplings on the left, ''buuz'' steamed dumplings on the right, and pieces of boiled mutton on top]] Anywhere you find people in Mongolia, you will also smell the scent of '''boiled mutton''', the principal dish of Mongolia. A typical herder in the countryside will eat little else, flavored only with a little salt. Vegetables and spices are very limited, and even flour may be in short supply, since the climate is poorly suited to agriculture. Restaurants, canteens and tea shops in Mongolia also have a mutton-centric menu, revolving around three dishes: * ''buuz'' (бууз) &mdash; Steamed dumplings stuffed with meat, often called the national dish of Mongolia. Derived from the Chinese ''baozi''. A set of 6 usually costs 1,200-2,000&nbsp;₮. * ''khuushuur'' (хуушууp) &mdash; Deep-fried stuffed flatbread with meat and onion, originally a festive dish but now ubiquitous. 3 or 4 will fill you up. * ''tsuivan'' (цуйван) &mdash; Fried noodles with meat and a few token vegetables, often served with ketchup on the side. Around 2,000-4,000&nbsp;₮ a serve. Horse, yak and beef are also eaten, and dairy products like ''byaslag'' (бяслаг), a mild, paneer-like fresh cheese, and ''öröm'' (өрөм), clotted cream, are also common. ''Aaruul'' (ааруул) dried curds are also a common snack: these are typically rock hard and have to be eaten by ''slowly'' dissolving them in your mouth, which eventually turns them into lumps of cheesy putty. [[File:Boodog made from a marmot.JPG|thumb|Preparing a marmot as ''boodog'']] For special occasions, ''boodog'' (боодог) or goat/marmot barbecue, is particularly worth experiencing. For about 15,000-20,000&nbsp;₮, a nomad will head out with his gun, shoot a marmot or a goat, and then cook it for you without a pot: the meat, vegetables, water and stones are cooked inside the skin of the animal. They skin it very carefully, and then tie off the holes at the legs and back side, put the food and hot stones inside, tie off the throat, and let it cook for about 30 minutes. Though rare, with only 692 cases of marmot plague recorded between 1928 to 2018, the Tarbagan marmot is known to carry the bubonic plague, but fatal cases tend to be those that partake in the consumption of raw marmot organs that are sometimes eatern separately from the ''boodog.'' Along the same lines is ''khorkhog'' (xopxoг), made of mutton, which is prepared like so: build a fire; toss stones into fire until red hot; place water, hot stones, onions, potatoes, carrots, and, finally, mutton chops, into a large vacuum-sealed kettle; let the kettle simmer over a fire for 30-60 minutes; open kettle carefully, as the top will inevitably explode, sending hot juices flying everywhere; once the kettle is opened, and all injuries have been tended to, eat contents of kettle, including the salty broth. This cooking method makes mutton taste tender and juicy, like slow-roasted turkey. Ask your guide if he or she can arrange one (but only during summer). ===Where to eat=== Ulaanbaatar has a cosmopolitan scene with plenty of international options, ranging from fine dining at the Kempinski to fast-food dumplings at [https://www.khaanbuuz.mn/ Khaan Buuz], the country's answer to McDonalds. The many Korean restaurants in particular are worth exploring. It is also the only place in the country where vegetarians can fairly easily find food, although tour agents can usually arrange vegetarian meals elsewhere with sufficient notice. In the countryside, the only dining option is often the ''guanz'' (гуанз), a roadside ''ger'' tent offering a simple menu, often only ''tsuivan'' noodles and salted milk tea. ==Drink== [[File:Mongolia 105.JPG|thumb|A milk pail in Mongolia]] The most common drink in Mongolia is '''salted milk tea''' (сүүтэй цай ''süütei tsai''), which is essentially a cup of boiled milk and water, sometimes with a couple pieces of tea leaf and/or a pinch of salt thrown in for good measure. A cup of this and a bowl of dried snacks is the first thing served when you visit a ''ger'', and it accompanies food at restaurants as well. The tea can be bulked up into a meal by adding in some toasted millet, rice, meat or bansh. You might want to build up your tolerance by drinking lots of milk in preparation for your stay because they don't drink much else, except perhaps boiled water if you specially request it during a longer stay. Also, most traditional nomadic foods such as dried yogurt and the like require acclimatization to milk as well. Cold drinks don't actually exist in the countryside (unless you intend to drink straight out of a river, generally not recommended). [[File:Homemade airag in Mongolia.jpg|thumb|A glass of homemade ''airag'', prepared in the blue plastic barrel in the background]] The national drink, though, is '''''airag''''' (айраг). Essentially the same as the Central Asian ''kumiss'', this is a summer seasonal drink made from fermented mare's milk, and is certainly an acquired taste. The alcohol content is less than that of beer, but can have noticeable effects. Be careful, if you aren't accustomed to drinking sour milk products, the first time might give you diarrhea as your stomach gets accustomed to it. This should only happen the first time though. Once you've completed the ritual, your digestive system shouldn't complain again. There are numerous ways to describe the taste, from bile-like to a mixture of lemonade and sour cream. The texture can also be offsetting to some people since it can be slightly gritty. It is worth keeping in mind that Airag is milk and a source of nutrients. After a day of riding it can actually be quite refreshing, once acquiring a taste for it. ''Airag'' is "microbrewed" locally, not commercially produced, but in season it's sold at stands including Gandantegchinlen Monastery and at the West Market in Ulaanbaatar. Much stronger than ''airag'' is '''''arkhi''''' (архи), a strong liquor distilled from milk and often called "milk vodka". Like vodka, the taste is quite neutral, and after you have your first shot of the vodka you won't feel anything, but a few minutes later it will get to your head. Most people in Mongolia usually drink this for medical reasons. First you heat up the vodka then put in a little bit of special oil which is also made from milk. Careful don't overheat it, you might get blind. Mongolians call their national vodka ''nermel arkhi'' ("distilled vodka") or ''changa yum'' ("tight stuff"). Many Russian-style vodkas are sold throughout the country. The best are '''Chinggis Khaan vodka''', '''Soyombo''' and '''Golden Chinggis'''. In Ulaanbaatar you can find most Western beers, from Miller to Heineken. They sell Budweiser -- not American Bud but the [[Czech Republic|Czech]] Budweiser. Local beer, such as Chingis, Gem Grand, Borgio or Sengur is fine. ==Sleep== Some '''western-style accommodation''' is available in [[Ulaanbaatar]], but it goes for western prices. There are a few nice guest houses in UB for less than US$10 per night (even as cheap as 3,000&nbsp;₮ if you're willing to share a room), but they are crowded during the tourist season and hard to get into. Out in the countryside, most of the hotels are rundown Soviet-era leftovers. A better option is tourist ''ger'', set up by entrepreneurial locals. Staying at one of these costs about ₮5000 per person per night. They often include breakfast and dinner as well. When staying in one of these guest ger, the usual gift-giving customs can be skipped. Finally, there are also '''ger-camps'''. Set up by tour companies, they do occasionally rent out space to independent travellers. Unfortunately, they tend to be both expensive (US$35 per person per night with 3 meals) and out of the way. To stay at a ger camp, use the online booking portals [https://ihotel.mn/ iHotel] and [http://www.mongoliagercamps.net Mongolian Ger Camps Network]. Except for the cities and larger towns, all land is publicly owned. This means you can '''pitch a tent''' pretty much anywhere. Courtesy dictates that you keep your distance from existing nomad encampments. Common sense dictates that you don't pitch a tent in the middle of or too close to a road. Nowadays, there are more than 300 hotels in Mongolia and these are graded between 1 and 5 stars. Hotels holding 3 stars or more are for tourist service and must obtain permission in order to operate. The Accommodation Grading Committee, consisting of the Ministry, travel industry associations and tourism researchers, rate an accommodation according to Mongolian standards. ==Learn== There are some '''language schools''' in the capital. The two most known to foreigners are Bridge School and Friends School. Both offer group study classes and individual tutors. Also, the [http://www.num.edu.mn/en/ National University of Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offers courses. It usually takes westerners about 9 to 18 months before they acquire good conversational abilities in Mongolian. Speakers of Korean, Japanese, and Turkic languages, like Turkish and Kazakh, tend to learn more quickly due to the similarities in grammatical structure. A Mongolian language school with a website is [http://mongolianlanguage.mn '''Nomiin Ger''']. ==Work== It can be difficult to find employment as a foreigner in Mongolia. Obtaining a work permit requires being sponsored by a Mongolian company and every company has a strict quota on the number of foreign nationals they may employ. Foreign nationals are not allowed to comprise more than 20% of a Mongolian company's workforce. This is as good as saying that the Mongolian government is reluctant to let foreigner workers compete with Mongolians. There is a huge demand for native English speakers as English teachers. Anyone who is interested in [[teaching English]] will have no trouble getting employment and a work visa through a school or organization. However, the pay is generally lower than in other countries. Though it'll usually be just enough for room and board plus a little extra. Local English-language media hire native speakers as editors, proof-readers and photojournalists. Volunteer work is available teaching English, assisting with charity work and joining archaeological digs. These jobs are easy to find and very rewarding. ==Stay safe== [[File:Sunset in Ulaanbaatar (6216619493).jpg|thumb|Sunset in Ulaanbaatar]] Mongolia is mostly a safe country to visit, but take care in nights and when alcohol is involved, and if venturing out away from shelter with risks of harsh weather. Women should be aware of problems common in conservative regions. [[Aggressive dogs]] may run in packs. Be wary of them since they are not likely to be as tame as domestic dogs elsewhere. Most fenced yards and gers have a guard dog that is usually all bark and no bite, though it is advised to make it aware of you so as to not surprise it, and carry a rock in case it does charge you. Manhole covers — or more precisely, the lack of such covers — is a surprisingly common cause of injuries among foreigners and (especially drunk) tourists. In smaller cities and outlying areas of the capital, there are many missing or poorly placed covers. Avoid stepping on any manhole and pay attention to where you walk. ===Crime and harassment=== Apart from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia is generally a safe place to travel. However, incidents of [[pickpockets|pickpocketing]] and bag slashing have occurred, so always keep your personal belongings in a safe place (money belts are highly recommended), especially in crowded areas or in places where your attention is diverted. Notorious places for theft are the Black Market (bazaar), the railway station and crowded bus stops. Unfortunately, xenophobia and violence towards foreigners is common. Alcoholism is a huge social problem and Mongolia has the highest rate of liver cancer in the world<!--according to www.wcrf.org and most other reputable sources-->. Do not acknowledge or approach any Mongolian man under the influence of alcohol. Many foreigners who go to bars and clubs at night report assault and general aggression. Mongolians are quite open people and tend to be curious and ask many questions just to be friendly. Try to answer diplomatically, and vaguely, especially relating to any perceived negative aspect of Mongolia. Violent crime is also common outside the capital city (Darkhan especially), so caution is required at night. In particular, dark or deserted alleys and streets should be avoided. Generally, if walking past 22:00, avoid people if at all possible. Mongolians can be very friendly, but their emotions and motives can change quite quickly. Someone who may genuinely just want to have a couple drinks with you may suddenly become aggressive regardless of your respect and polite actions. Corruption is a huge problem in Mongolia, and locals are convinced that the police are not to be trusted. There are small bands of Mongolian ultra-nationalist thugs that style themselves as neo-Nazis and have assaulted foreigners including whites, blacks, and particularly, Chinese. They are especially provoked by foreigner interaction with Mongolian women. They are mostly found in the capital, especially in the cheaper bars and nightclubs. Lone or female travelers need to exercise a higher degree of awareness of their surroundings, as getting groped in the chest or behind is not uncommon. Some actions like dancing close to a man will be seen as an open invitation, as Mongolians generally don't dance this way. === Weather conditions === Perhaps the biggest danger in Mongolia is the extreme weather. Owing to its large size, high elevation, proximity to [[Siberia]] in Russia, and its landlocked geography, Mongolian winters are incredibly harsh and temperatures can fall as low as -40° Celsius. That's why [[Ulaanbaatar]] is often dubbed the coldest capital city in the world. When visiting Mongolia in the winter, layer every article of clothing you own and '''do not''' walk around too much in the open. Frostbite is a real risk, and freezing to death is a possibility. If you are unprepared to deal with such weather conditions, visit Mongolia during the summer. === Driving === Driving in Mongolia can be dangerous, especially for those who are not used to driving in developing countries. Roads outside the capital tend to be in poor condition, and incredibly harsh weather makes things all the more difficult. In the capital, motorists can be aggressive and drunk driving is common. Take care when crossing roads or busy intersections. If you have little to no knowledge of Mongolian roads and driving around in isolated areas, it is '''strongly recommended''' that you do not drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Outside the capital, help is incredibly limited and you can get lost if you don't know what you're doing. If you must drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]], consider informing a trusted local about your plans. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Air pollution in ulaanbaatar.jpg|thumb|Air pollution in Ulaanbaatar]] * Nomads' dogs may have '''rabies'''. As a precaution, consider having a rabies shot before coming. * Marmots should not be eaten at certain times of the year because they can carry '''bubonic plague'''. That said, the disease is carried by the marmot's fleas so the afflicted tend to be fur traders, and marmot is not a mainstream dish even in Mongolia. * Hepatitis and tuberculosis are common throughout Mongolia. * '''[[Tap water]]''' is unsafe to drink. === Pollution === [[Ulaanbaatar]] has polluted air, largely due to pervasive coal-burning for domestic heating. If you suffer from a respiratory disease and plan to visit Mongolia in winter, consult a medical professional for advice. ==Respect== [[File:Jurte in der Mongolei.JPG|thumb|A common sight in the Mongolian countryside. If you have been invited to go inside one, accept it.]] Compared to other countries in Asia, Mongolians are generally straightforward. Expect someone to tell you exactly what they think and feel. Anti-China sentiment is high in Mongolia due to historiographical and cultural disputes, and because China is seen by Mongolians as a colonial oppressor. As such, refrain from wearing anything associated with China, and refrain from talking about China. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia is referred to as "southern Mongolia" by most Mongolians. Many Mongolians consider it to be Mongolian territory under Chinese occupation. Mongols traditionally live on the steppes, breeding horses, just like their ancestor Genghis Khan. Not surprisingly, following Western pleasantries will mostly not have the intended effect in Mongolia. Instead, try to follow local good manners. Always receive items with the '''right hand''', palm facing up. Drink from the right hand with the palm up as well. It is very rude to refuse a gift. If offered a plate of hospitality munchies, take at least a small nibble from something. Never point at anyone with your index finger since it implies disrespect. Whenever you approach a nomadic family, or enter a ger, you will, without knowing, break one or several of the many traditional, religious and superstitious customs. If you do become confused, don't panic, minor indiscretions will be tolerated and forgiven. The following do's and don'ts will help avoid offending anyone. === What to do=== * Say hello (sain bainuu) upon arriving (but repeating it when you see the same person is considered strange) * Take at least a sip, or a nibble, of the delicacies offered. * Pick up everything with an open hand, with your palm facing upwards. * Hold a cup by the bottom, and not by the top rim. * If by accident you tap someone's foot with yours, immediately shake hands with them (failing to do so will be seen as an insult). * Exchange pleasantries and engage in some small talk before asking someone for something. * Discuss one's family and the weather. In nomadic areas, asking about a nomad's animals is customary. * Discuss where you're from and what you're doing in Mongolia/the place you're visiting. * Show respect to elders and figures of authority. === What not to do === * Lean against a support column * Whistle inside a ger * Stand on, or lean over, the threshold * Stamp out a fire, or put water or any rubbish on it (fire is sacred to Mongolians) * Walk in front of an older person; or turn your back to the altar, or religious objects (except when leaving) * Take food from a communal plate with your left hand * Touch other people's hats * Do not have a long conversation in your own language in front of your hosts; make an effort to include your hosts. * Do not reject an invitation to visit a ger; hospitality is a cornerstone in the nomadic parts of Mongolia and outright rejecting an invitation will seriously offend the nomads. * Refuse food and drink offered by your hosts; as is the case in many Asian cultures, it is ''very rude'' to do this in Mongolia and shows no respect to your hosts. * Not finishing the food that has been offered to you; as is the case in many Asian cultures, wasting food is ''frowned upon''. * Urinate in lakes or bodies of water; water is considered sacred and holy in Mongolia. * Speak negatively about Genghis Khan. Most Mongolians revere him, and he is regarded as a national hero and the father of their nation. ==Connect== '''Internet cafés''' are less common than they were, but nicer restaurants provide Wi-Fi in the capital. The postal service is slow and most people have a PO Box if they want to get anything. It is possible to buy phone cards that can be used to call abroad very cheaply from domestic phones, but not all phones can do this. (You can ask for MiCom or MobiCom cards). In the countryside, cell phone carriers cover random villages. Between Mobicom, Unitel, and GMobile, all villages or Soum centers are covered. Internet cafés are plentiful in Aimag centers (provincial capitals) now, with all Aimag post offices having one, plus many smaller cafés. There is Internet in some Soums (villages), but this is rare, slow, and prone to frequent outages. To make local calls in Ulaanbaatar, use a phone of one of the many entrepreneurs with cellular telephones on the street corners. Expect to pay 150-200&nbsp;₮ per minute (June 2009 prices). ==Go next== ===To [[China]]=== From Ulaanbaatar, there are several options: Firstly, the international train. Tickets are sold in the ticket office in the VIP lounge on the second floor of the international ticket office across the street from the train station. The second option is to board the Hohhot international train and transfer at [[Erlian]] or [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]]. See the travel agency located on the 1st (ground) floor of the international ticket office for details. The third option is to take the daily train to [[Zamiin-Üüd]], Mongolia at the border and take a bus or jeep to China, then go to the bus or train station in [[Erlian]], China. ===To [[Russia]]=== There are buses and trains to [[Ulan Ude]], from where you can explore the [[Lake Baikal]] region or board the [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] in either direction. {{isPartOf|East_Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|47|104|zoom=5}} qdtv7w2wxq9ye21b5356sy5jbo19vpc 5091322 5091321 2025-07-11T10:29:18Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091322 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mongolian_landscape_banner.jpg|disambig=yes}} '''Mongolia''' ([[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]: Монгол улс, Traditional Mongolian: [[File:Monggol_ulus.svg|40px]]) has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Its vast and majestic emptiness is the country's enduring appeal: it brings the traveller into a close communion with nature and its nomadic inhabitants. It is one of the last places on earth where nomadic life lives on. The most memorable part of a trip to Mongolia will be its hospitable people. Mongolian culture has much in common with the cultures of [[Central Asia]]. Mongolia offers great opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing, fishing and photography. Traveling across this huge country is often an adventure in itself. ==Regions== The country can be categorised into five regions based on culture and geography. These regions are further divided into 21 provinces (aimags) and one provincial municipality. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Mongolia regions map.png | regionmaptext=Mongolia regions | regionmapsize=450px | region1name=[[Central Mongolia]] | region1color=#72b970 | region1description=Includes [[Ulaanbaatar]] and the popular tourist region of [[Arkhangai]]. | region2name=[[Eastern Mongolia]] | region2color=#c16161 | region2description=The birthplace of Genghis Khan and heart of the Mongolian steppe. | region3name=[[Gobi]] | region3color=#d0c56c | region3description=As the name implies, home to the immense Gobi Desert. | region4name=[[Northern Mongolia]] | region4color=#7db1de | region4description=Contains many of Mongolia's forests and the massive [[Lake Khövsgöl]]. | region5name=[[Western Mongolia]] | region5color=#a77da5 | region5description=Home of Lake Uvs Nuur and Tavan Bogd Mountains, is also the most diverse region with a dozen different tribes including the Kazakhs. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#72b970|title=[[Central Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207809,Q234713,Q276195,Q23430}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c16161|title=[[Eastern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207795,Q239040,Q244804}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d0c56c|title=[[Gobi]]|wikidata=Q276200,Q213272,Q211835,Q192945,Q236333,Q235579}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#7db1de|title=[[Northern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q209774,Q18827,Q244788,Q234710,Q234680}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a77da5|title=[[Western Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q191792,Q194098,Q192942,Q167764}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|46.46|103.71|zoom=4|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ulaanbaatar]]|url=|lat=47.92|long=106.92|wikidata=Q23430}} (''Ulan Bator'', [[Mongolian]]: '''Улаанбаатар''') – the capital city and starting point for most travel in this country. Half the population lives here. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Choibalsan]]|url=|lat=48.078333|long=114.535|wikidata=Q318245}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чойбалсан''') – large industrial city in the east *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Erdenet]]|url=|lat=49.027778|long=104.044444|wikidata=Q230628}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Эрдэнэт''') – Mongolia's second largest city and home to one of the world's biggest copper mines and a famous carpet factory *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hovd]]|url=|lat=48.004167|long=91.640556|wikidata=Q731256}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Ховд''') – a historic city at the crossroads of traditional Mongol and Kazakh culture *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Karakorum]]|url=|lat=47.210278|long=102.847778|wikidata=Q62677}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Хархорум''') – the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, established by Genghis' son Ogedei *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Mörön]]|url=|lat=49.635556|long=100.155556|wikidata=Q572951}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Мөрөн''') – a stopover for those visiting [[Hövsgöl]] province, it has several museums and a large collection of deer stones outside of town *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ölgii]]|url=|lat= 48.968333|long=89.968611|wikidata=Q297060}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Өлгий''') – a town in Mongolia's far western corner, the starting point for visiting Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Tsambagarav National Park and the eagle hunters who live *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Öndörkhaan|Chinggis]]|url=|lat=47.323333|long=110.661111}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чингис''') – near the birthplace (and possible burial site) of Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tsetserleg]]|url=|lat=47.476944|long=101.450278|wikidata=Q529834}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Цэцэрлэг''') – the most pleasant of Mongolia's provincial capitals sits in a beautiful forested valley in the Khangay mountains ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khogno Khan National Park]]|wikidata=Q93828284}} — a beautiful, and calm area boasting cultural sites such as Kharkhorin, the capital of the Mongolian Empire after Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]|lat=48.55|long=88.616667|wikidata=Q932232}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Алтай Таван богд байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — the tallest mountain and largest glacier in Mongolia, with Kazakh '''Eagle Hunters''' living in its shadow and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Petroglyphs]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Uvs Nuur Lake|lat=50.3|long=92.7}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Увс нуур''), [[Uvs|Uvs province]] — the largest lake in Mongolia and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Uvs Lake]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve]]|lat=47.541|long=108.343|wikidata=Q5618269}} — an ecotourism destination *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]|url=|lat=48.150204|long=107.576006|wikidata=Q1266074}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Горхи-Тэрэлж'') — a national park 70 km east of Ulaanbaatar *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Khövsgöl]]|lat=51.1|long=100.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Хөвсгөл нуур'') — a large freshwater alpine lake *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Darhad Valley|lat=51.166667|long=99.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Дархадын хотгор'') — home to the Reindeer people *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khustain Nuruu National Park]]|lat=47.765|long=105.878333|wikidata=Q1639106}} (Mongolian: ''Хустайн нуруу'') — Khustain Nuruu or Hustai National Park is home to the Takhi wild horses (also known as Przewalski's Horse). These are true wild horses which have never been domesticated. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park]]|lat=43.802729|long=101.589663|wikidata=Q1533528}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Говь гурван сайхан байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — Khongor Sand dunes, Yol Canyon, Bayanzag-Red Flaming Cliffs, and Khermen Tsav ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMongolia.png}} {{quote|Everybody needs to go to Mongolia just to see what it is to be a human being again.|author=Milla Jovovich, American actress.}} Mongolia is one of the world's largest landlocked countries, second only to [[Kazakhstan]] and is surrounded by two of the world's largest countries: [[China]] and [[Russia]]. It was the center of the [[Mongol Empire]], the largest contiguous empire in world history. With only 1.7 people per square kilometre, Mongolia has the lowest population density of any independent country. The country is nicknamed the "Land of Blue Skies," and with good reason. There are said to be about 250 sunny days throughout each year. The weather is bitterly cold during the winter, dropping down to -40°C in some parts. With many types of terrain — from desert to verdant mountains — the weather during the summer varies from region to region, but is generally hot. Outside of the Gobi desert, this time of year is marked with much rain in some areas, and it can become quite cool at night. For several letters, the ISO&nbsp;9 standard '''transliteration''' of Cyrillic is not widely used and there is no consensus either in Mongolia nor in Wikivoyage. Particularly, the same Cyrillic letter "х" is transliterated "h" or "kh", the letter "ө" is transliterated "ô", "ö", "o" or "u", but Latin "o" is also the transliteration of the Cyrillic "о", and Latin "u" is also the transliteration of Cyrillic "у" and "ү" (the latter should be transliterated "ù" according to ISO&nbsp;9, but this is rarely done). So, if you can't find a name as you wrote it, try other spellings. ''Mongolia'' may have geopolitical, cultural and geographical meanings. Modern-day Mongolia consists of what was historically ''Outer Mongolia'' (so-called when it was part of China). [[Inner Mongolia]] is politically separate and remains a province of China, sharing a border and a common cultural heritage with modern-day Mongolia. ===History=== {{see also|Mongol Empire|Imperial China}} [[File:USMC-100903-M-1294R-001.jpg|thumb|300px|Statue of Chinggis Khan outside the capital]] The recorded history of ancient Mongolia dates to the third century BC when the Xiongnu came to power among many other nomadic tribes. Due to illiteracy and their nomadic lifestyle, little was recorded by the Xiongnu of themselves; they first appear in recorded Chinese history as "barbarians" against whom the walls were built. Those walls later became known as the [[Great Wall of China]]. The Xiongnu were eventually defeated by China's Han Dynasty in AD 89. Xiongnu history is controversial. Different historians attribute them to several quite different ethnic groups. Some claim that Xiongnu is cognate to Hun Nu or even that these are basically the same group known as Huns centuries later in Europe, but both claims are contested. There have been several empires in Mongolia after the Xiongnu. The first strong state to emerge was the First Turkic Khaganate in AD 552 with its capital at Ötüken (modern-day [[Ordu-Baliq]]). However, due to political infighting, this empire fragmented into the Eastern Turkic Khaganate with its capital at Ötüken, and the Western Turkic Khaganate with its capital at [[Suyab]] (near [[Bishkek]] in modern-day [[Kyrgyzstan]]), in AD 603. Both of these states were eventually defeated by China's Tang Dynasty; the Eastern Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 630, while the Western Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 657. The next strong empire to emerge was the Uyghur Khaganate, with its capital Har Bulgas (Khar Bulgas or Xar Bulgas) near Har Horin. The Khitans who controlled northern China around AD 1000 as the Liao Dynasty had an administrative centre (Har Bukh) 120&nbsp;km to the northeast. The Turkish government has been promoting some Turkish Empire monuments and there is a museum full of artifacts at the Bilge Khaan site. The struggle for mere existence and power over other tribes continued until the time of Genghis Khan. Chinggis Khan, as he is known in Mongolia, born with the name Temüjin, came to power and united the warring tribes under the Great Mongol Empire in 1206. He was proclaimed Genghis Khan (Chingis Haan), meaning ruler of all Mongol tribes, and to this day, Mongolians consider him to be the father of their nation. The Mongol Empire was extended all the way to what is now [[Poland]] and [[Hungary]] in [[Europe]] under Genghis Khan, and they also conquered the Jurchen Jin Dynasty that then ruled northern China. His grandson, Kublai Khan, subsequently defeated the Chinese Song Dynasty and completed the conquest of China, establishing the Yuan Dynasty. [[Marco Polo]] travelled through much of the Mongol Empire in Kublai Khan's time. The Mongols were, however, driven back to the steppes by the Chinese Ming Dynasty under Emperor Hongwu. They were later progressively conquered by the Manchu Qing Dynasty in the 17th century, and played an important role in the Manchu conquest of China. An independent Mongol nation only reemerged in 1924. It was not recognised by China until 1945, as the Chinese were forced to grant independence to Outer Mongolia by the Soviet Union, in exchange for Soviet assistance in fighting the Japanese invasion. Thus, the historic region of Mongolia was split into two, with Outer Mongolia becoming the independent nation of Mongolia, while [[Inner Mongolia]] remained a province of China. Since that time, Mongolia has had a close relationship with the Soviet Union (and [[Russia]] after the breakup of the Soviet Union), with Russian becoming the most widely-spoken foreign language in Mongolia. Mongolia even replaced its traditional script with the Cyrillic alphabet. (The traditional script, however, continues to be used by ethnic Mongols in China.) Inner Mongolia was the more populated area before the partition, and the number of ethnic Mongols living in China still outnumbers the population of Mongolia. Following independence, the Soviet Union installed a communist government in Mongolia. Following the fall of communism in Europe, Mongolia enacted democratic reforms, which resulted in the first democratic multiparty elections in 1990. The democratic reforms culminated with the first peaceful transfer of power in 1996, when the incumbent Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party lost the elections, and handed power to the victorious Democratic Union. Mongolia's vast collection of natural resources such as gold, copper, and coal can very easily make it one of the wealthiest countries on the planet, but due to its landlocked geography, dependence on the goodwill of [[China]] and Russia, governmental and bureaucratic inefficiencies, Mongolia remains one of the least developed countries in Asia. ''The Secret History of the Mongols'' is one of the great recordings of Mongolian history. Every Mongolian reads the book in the modern Mongolian language. This is one of the oldest books in the Mongolian language. There are vivid similarities with the Bible in literary style, wording and story-telling. It is speculated that the author could have been a Christian or at least was very knowledgeable about the Bible. According to Hugh Kemp, Qadag is the most likely candidate for authorship of ''Secret History of the Mongols''. He writes about the history of ancient Mongolia and connects the modern reality with the ancient world. Even though the book is about the history of Christianity in Mongolia, it paints a view of ancient Mongolia from the height of 21st century. The ''History of Mongolia'' by B. Baabar is a good source for the modern history of Mongolia. [[On the trail of Marco Polo]] covers some travel through the Mongol Empire in the time of Genghis' grandson, Kublai Khan. ===People=== Mongolia is more than twice as big as Texas and nearly the same size as Alaska. Its area is 1.6 million km² (603,000 square miles), four times the size of Japan and larger than Spain, France and Germany combined. This makes Mongolia the sixth-largest country in Asia and 19th in the world, but the population is only 3.4 million (as of 2020), which makes Mongolia one of the least densely populated areas in Asia. Considering that half of the population lives in the capital city of Ulan Bator or Ulaanbaatar ("UB") that leaves lots of room for you to travel in the outback. Of course, the Gobi is even less dense. Almost another 40% of the population are scattered all over Mongolia with their 56 million head of sheep, goats, cattle, horses and camels. There are 21 provinces, called ''aimag''. Each ''aimag'' has a central city or town and about 15-22 sub-provinces called ''soum'', so you will know which ''aimag'' and which soum you are in. 70% of Mongolia is under the age of 35. The gender ratio is close to 1:1. It is home to various ethnic groups: 84% Khalkha Mongols, 6% Kazakhs and 10% other groups. More than 50% will say they are Buddhists, which is very much mixed with Shamanism, close to 10% will claim to be Christians of all forms and 4% follow Islam, the remainder will say that they are atheists. Mongolian Buddhism is part of the Vajrayana school, which is also dominant in [[Tibet]] and [[Bhutan]]. Almost all the Kazakhs and Muslims live in [[Bayan-Ölgii|Bayan-Ölgii province]]. === Economy === Mongolia possesses abundant deposits of copper, coal, tin, tungsten, molybdenum, and gold. The cashmere industry is also an important industry; Mongolia and its neighbour, China, are responsible for 85% of the world's cashmere supply. Although that sounds impressive, Mongolia is a relatively poor and undeveloped country. With an economy that depends heavily on the mining sector and on the goodwill of its two large neighbours, the country's economy is highly vulnerable to external shocks. When the Soviet Union disintegrated in 1991, the Mongolian economy lost a third of its GDP overnight, plunging the country into a state of disarray. ===Holidays and festivals=== [[Image:Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Naadam festival celebrations]] The annual '''Naadam festival''' (11–13 July) is the biggest day in many Mongols' calendars. It is when Mongolia celebrates its "three manly sports": wrestling, horse racing, and archery by either watching the festivities in Ulaanbaatar or by following them on television or radio. Many other smaller Naadam festivals are also held in different aimags (provinces) throughout July, and these more intimate festivals may let you get much closer to the action. The Naadam celebrations are said to have started with the rise of the Great Mongolian Empire. Chinggis (a.k.a. Genghis) Khan used them to keep his warriors strictly fit. After the fall of the empire, the contests were held during religious festivals, and since the communist revolution it was celebrated on its anniversary. Legend has it that a woman once dressed like man and won the wrestling competition. That is why the long-sleeved wrestling costumes, called "zodog", have open chests - to show that every participant is male. Wrestlers wear short trunks, "shuudag", and Mongolian boots, "gutal". The yellow stripes on tales of wrestlers' hats will indicate the number of times the wrestler became a champion in Naadam. {{CNYdates}} Only Naadam gives official titles to the wrestlers. Mongolian wrestling tournaments have 9 or 10 rounds depending on the number of 512 or 1024 wrestlers registered for the competition that year. If the wrestler wins 5 rounds, he will be awarded title "Nachin" (bird), 6 rounds - Hartsaga (hawk), 7 rounds - Zaan (elephant), 8 rounds - Garuda (Eagle), 9 rounds - Arslan (lion) and 10 - Avarga (Titan). In 2006, Zaan (Elephant) Sumyabazar won 9 rounds that made him Garuda but that year 1024 wrestlers had 10 rounds which he won all. This entitled him to Avarga. Or Arslan (Lion) must win 2 in a row to become Avarga (Titan). The titles are for life. If Avarga (Titan) keeps winning at Naadam more and more attributes will be added to his title. There are no weight categories in Mongolian Wrestling tournaments but there is a time limit of 30 minutes, if the wrestlers can not overthrow each other, referees use lots for better position which often settles the match. One who falls or whose body touches the ground loses the match. Mongolian wrestling matches are attended by seconds whose role is to assist their wrestlers in all matters and to encourage them to win by spanking on their butts. They also sing praise songs and titles to the leading wrestlers of both wings, west and east, after 5 and 7 rounds. The referees monitor the rules but the people and the fans are the final judges. They will speak and spread the word of mouth about who is who till the next year. ====Smaller festivals==== *'''Tsagaan Sar''' (White moon) - starts on the Lunar New Year and is a 3-day public holiday. Its not big with tourists for the obvious reason of being during the coldest month of the year. A time when families reunite and have a large meal of sheep's tail, mutton, rice with curds, dairy products, and buuz. It is also typical to drink airag and exchange gifts. *'''Golden Eagle Festival''' in [[Ölgii]] on October 5th and 6th is the world's largest gathering of eagle hunters. The event typically has 60 to 70 Kazakh eagle hunters displaying their skills. The events include having their golden eagles fly to them on command and catching a fox fur being pulled by a horse from a perch on a nearby mountain. The event also features traditional Kazakh games including Kokpar (tug-of-war over a goat carcass while on horseback), Tiyn Teru (a timed race to pick up a coin on the ground while on horseback), and Kyz Kuar ("girl chase" a race between a man and woman where the woman whips the man while he tries to hold on). The festival also has a traditional Kazakh concert, camel race, and displays of Kazakh art. A smaller eagle festival is held on Sept 22nd in the nearby village of Sagsai. *'''Nauryz''' also in [[Ölgii]] is the traditional new year's celebration of Kazakhs held on 22 March. There is a parade, concert, and horse races during the several days of celebrating. Though most of the celebration involves visiting friends and relatives to eat Nauryz Koje (soup) and boiled mutton and horse meat. *'''Ice Festival''' is held on the frozen surface of Lake Hövsgöl outside of [[Mörön]] each February. The 2-day festival includes wrestling, reindeer sleighs and riding, ice skating, shaman rituals, folk concert, and cultural events of the Tsagaan reindeer people. You should be warned; It is ''very cold'' in Northern Mongolia in February. *'''Yak Festival''' on July 23rd in between [[Karakorum]] and [[Arvayheer]]. The festival celebrates this large mammal that thrives in the cold Mongolian winters with a full day of yak races, a rodeo, and other competitions. There is a market, tourist gers, and a whole temporary village set up in the middle of the steppe. *'''Camel Festival''' in South Gobi province: A local non-governmental organization that aims to protect and preserve the Bactrian camel population organizes "The Thousand Camel Festival" in Bulgan County, South Gobi Province. The festival includes two types of camel races, camel-polo, and some other competitions related to camel breeders' cultural heritage such as training of untamed camels, making ropes from camel wool and loading. There is also a folk concert by school children from the countryside. The festival is held annually March 6–7 for 2 days. ====Public holidays==== While most business still takes place on most holidays, Tsagaan Sar and Naadam tend to last much longer than the official 3 days. Work may stop for weeks in the countryside for Tsagaan Sar. Also, election days are always public holidays and dry days. Alcohol is not sold on election days or the 1st of each month nationwide. * New Years – January 1 * Tsagaan Sar – January/February (3 days, depends on Lunar New Year) * International Women's Day – March 8 * Soldiers' Day – March 18 (not a day off, just lots of parades) * Mothers' and Children's' Day – June 1 * Naadam Festival – July 11–13 * Genghis Khan's Birthday – November 14 * Independence Day – November 26 (no longer a day off, replaced by Genghis Khan's Birthday) '''Working hours''' are almost always posted in 24 hours. Shops are usually open 10:00 to 21:00 or 22:00, and sometimes closed or shortened hours on Sunday or Monday. Banks usually open 08:00 or 09:00 to 17:00, though often closed for an hour for lunch. However, posted times are not always reliable, especially in the countryside. Expect shops to open at maybe 10:15 or 10:30 more often than not. Restaurants typically close around 22:00, while bars stay open until midnight or later. There are a few fast food restaurants in the capital that stay open until 03:00, but no shops open past midnight. ===Climate=== [[File:Khövsgöl Aimag12.JPG|thumb|Steppe in [[Hovsgol]] — if you want to experience desolate landscapes, Mongolia has plenty of them.]] The ideal Mongolia travel season starts in May and peaks in July, during the Naadam holiday, and in August when the weather is most favourable for travelling. This is the best time if you like the culture and can bear the crowds of other tourists. It is not a good time to get away from your busy lifestyle because of the traffic, busy schedules, waiting in lines, etc. September is also a very good time to visit, and October is not too late to travel to Mongolia. It is still warm during the days but a bit chilly during the nights. In the autumn, Mongolia is not very crowded, and this is time for late-comers and last-minute, unplanned trips. You will get to sightsee, enjoy the culture, and taste mare's milk, a bitter and at first somewhat unpleasant drink, throughout the country. For visitors not afraid of cold or fermented mare's milk, travelling to Mongolia from November till the Lunar New Year remains an option. Winter tourism is a developing area of the Mongolian tourism industry. The most rewarding experience will be visiting the nomads, as this is the time when you will experience their culture first-hand during "Tsagaan Sar" or the traditional (Lunar) New Year celebration. Cultural activities including singing, dancing, wrestling, and winter horse racing are available to tourists. Mongolia is known to have 250-260 sunny days throughout the year, so you will need good [[Sunburn and sun protection|UV protection]]. During winter, protect your eyes, and during summer, protect your skin. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.mongolia.travel/ Mongolia Travel] website ==Talk== {{see also|Mongolian phrasebook|Russian phrasebook}} The official language of Mongolia is '''[[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]'''. Mongolian in Mongolia is written using the '''Cyrillic alphabet''', which was introduced around the 1940s. Mongolian Cyrillic uses all the letters used in the [[Russian]] alphabet and has two extra letters: '''Ө''' and '''Ү'''. Very few people know how to read and write Mongolian using the '''traditional Mongolian script''' (written from top to bottom, and still widely used by ethnic Mongols in China), although since the 1990s, it has been gradually regaining popularity. Mongolian belongs to the Mongolic family of languages, which also includes some minority languages of Russia such as Buryat and Kalmyk, and is not known to be related to any other language family. That being said, Mongolian shares a decent amount of words and grammar structures with the Turkic languages (Turkish, Uzbek, Kazakh, etc.) due to historical proximity, so speakers of a Turkic language will have a somewhat easier time navigating Mongolian. Loanwords from languages such as Sanskrit, [[Russian]], English, and [[Persian]] are common and are used in everyday conversations. Mongolian is widely regarded as a very difficult language for an English-speaker to learn. It is an agglutinative language that makes extensive use of suffixing, makes use of nine grammatical cases, and has a number of pronunciation rules and differences. Don't let this intimidate you, though; Mongolians will appreciate your efforts to speak their language, even if your knowledge of it is rudimentary. If you speak Japanese, Korean, Manchu or a Turkic language, some aspects of Mongolian grammar will be familiar to you. '''[[Kazakh phrasebook|Kazakh]]''' is spoken in the westernmost province of the country and by the small but growing population of ethnic Kazakhs living in Ulaanbaatar. Due to Mongolia's longstanding alliance with the [[Soviet Union]] (and [[Russia]] since the fall of the Soviet Union), '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' is spoken by many older Mongolians, although proficiency drops drastically outside Ulaanbaatar. '''English''' is the most popular foreign language among younger Mongolians, and is widely taught in schools. Outside the capital, little of it is spoken. ==Get in== Historically, Mongolia had a reputation for being a very difficult country to visit. Until the mid-1990s, you had to solicit an invitation letter from someone living in Mongolia to visit Mongolia. Lately, the visa rules have been relaxed and most people can enter the country without a visa. The Mongolian government declared the 2023-2024 tourist season the "Year of Mongolia", relaxing visa requirements for many countries, including all major Western nations. Whether this will become a permanent change is yet to be seen. ===Entry requirements=== [[File:New visa policy of Mongolia 2023.png|thumb|375px|Visa policy of Mongolia {{legend|#ed1c24|Mongolia}} {{legend|#22b14c|Visa-free (90 days)}} {{legend|#79d343|Visa-free (30 days)}} {{legend|#b5e61d|Visa-free (21 days)}} {{legend|#ffb583|Visa-free (14 days)}} {{legend|#ffd000|Visa on arrival (30 days)}} {{legend|#a1d4b0|eVisa (30 days)}} {{legend|#ababab|Visa required in advance}}]] Citizens of [https://en.consul.mn/visa/c/83 the following countries/territories]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} can enter Mongolia '''visa-free''': *'''For up to 90 days:''' [[Argentina]], [[Belarus]], [[Brazil]], [[Chile]], [[Ecuador]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Kyrgyzstan]], [[Macau]], [[Peru]], [[Serbia]], [[South Korea]], [[Ukraine]] (with an "official invitation") and [[United States]] *'''For up to 30 days:''' Citizens of [[Canada]], [[Germany]], [[Israel]], [[Japan]], [[Laos]], [[Malaysia]], [[Russia]], [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], [[Turkey]], [[Uruguay]], and [[Uzbekistan]], as well as the following for tourism until the end of 2025: [[European Union]] member states, [[Australia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Monaco]], [[New Zealand]], [[Norway]], [[Switzerland]], and [[United Kingdom]] *'''For up to 21 days:''' [[Philippines]] *'''For up to 14 days:''' [[Hong Kong]] Everyone else, however, must apply for a visa. Obtaining a visa — by default, the Mongolian authorities issue '''thirty-day visas''' to all tourists — is relatively straightforward and effortless. ==== Applying for a Mongolian visa ==== Although requirements vary from diplomatic post to diplomatic post, you are normally asked to submit the following to obtain a Mongolian visa: * A visa application form * A passport-sized photo * A passport with a validity of more than six months * A copy of your travel itinerary * A copy of your hotel reservation * A copy of your bank statement * A letter of invitation (if you intend to stay longer than 30 days in Mongolia) * A letter of approval from the government (only required if you plan to study, work, or live in Mongolia) Also, it is possible to acquire an expedited visa in a matter of hours at the Mongolian consulate in Erlian, though there is a steep US$50 fee for this service. A similar service is available in the Mongolian consulate in the Russian city of [[Irkutsk]]. The [http://www.embassyofmongolia.co.uk/ Embassy of Mongolia in the UK website] is useful for updates, with the [http://embassyofmongolia.co.uk/?p=186&lang=en visa page]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offering information on visa applications at the embassy. [http://beijing.mfa.gov.mn/?lang=en The Embassy of Mongolia in China website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} hosts the form you will need to apply for your Mongolian visa in China, although the consulate does have them. To stay more than 30 days, you have to register at the Mongolia Immigration. ===By plane=== [[image:MIAT Boeing 737-800 at ULN.jpg|thumb|MIAT plane in Ulaanbaatar]] Thanks to a booming mining sector, '''Chinggis Khaan International Airport''' ({{IATA|UBN}}) in [[Ulaanbaatar]] is now connected to some major airport hubs in eastern Asia and Istanbul and Frankfurt. Flag carrier [http://www.miat.com/ MIAT Mongolian Airlines]{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operates daily flights (during some peak season - twice a day) from [[Beijing]] and [[Seoul]], twice a week flights from [[Hong Kong]], [[Moscow]] and [[Tokyo]] (during some peak season - from Narita). During peak summer season it increases flight frequencies and operates flights from [[Busan]] and [[Osaka]]. There are branch offices in Berlin, Moscow, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo and Beijing. Mongolia-based [http://www.hunnuair.com/ Hunnu Air] flies 3 times a week from [[Bangkok]] and 5 flights a week from Hong Kong. There are almost daily flights from Seoul on Korean Air as well as other flights through Beijing, and 3 flights a week to [[Istanbul]]. It is also possible to fly to Ulaanbaatar through Tokyo's Narita Airport. ===By train=== [[image:Trans Mongolian Train 01.jpg|thumb|Trans-Mongolian train]] {{main|Trans-Siberian Railway}} The '''Trans-Mongolian Line''' of the legendary [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] links [[Ulaanbaatar]] with [[Moscow]], [[Russia]] and [[Beijing]], [[China]]. The Mongolian line branches from the main Trans-Siberian at [[Ulan-Ude]], so you'll need to break your journey there if coming from points east like [[Vladivostok]]. There is a small water boiler at the end of each train car which dispenses free hot water, so it's a good idea to stock up on instant noodles and tea for the trip. Also, don't expect to encounter any English-speaking staff on the train or in the stations. ====From Russia==== The Trans-Siberian train crosses the Russia/Mongolia border at the town of [[Naushki]], Russia. Trains start from [[Moscow]] or [[Irkutsk]] going to either Ulaanbaatar or Beijing, with several stops on both sides of the border. Between Irkutsk and the border are [[Ulan-Ude]], Naushki, Dozornoe, and Khoit. Between the Russian border and Ulaanbaatar are [[Sühbaatar]], [[Darkhan (city)|Darkhan]], and Zuunkharaa, with possible stops in [[Erdenet]] and Salkhit. ====From China==== [[image:WheelChanging.jpg|thumb|Changing wheels at the Chinese border]] Second class (hard sleeper) costs about US$200 (2011) from [[Beijing]] to [[Ulaanbaatar]], crossing the border at [[Erlian]]/[[Zamiin-Üüd]]. There are two trains a week and the ride takes almost 30 hours, including a mandatory stop of 3-4 hours at Erlian while the train bogies are switched between Russian broad gauge and Chinese standard gauge. You will have to take all your belongings and leave the train for this operation, and will be confined to the waiting area at Erlian station, even if you're inbound to China and have already passed through immigration. You can, however, ask staff for a free ticket that will let you step outside to raid the nearby shops and restaurants for supplies. =====Beijing to the border===== If the [[Beijing]] - [[Ulaanbaatar]] train is sold out, as seems to be common, or you need a more frequent option, you can make your way from Beijing to the border at [[Erlian]] by '''local train''' as described below, and then on to Ulaanbaatar by bus and train. As of March 2011, there are morning flights from Beijing to Erlian out of Capital Airport Terminal 1 costing only ¥160, which is cheaper than the bus. Trains run daily from Beijing to [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]] or [[Hohhot]]. You can change there for a train to the border town of [[Erlian]] near the Mongolian-Chinese border. The K89 leaves Beijing in the morning and arrives at Jining in the evening. Jining has many hotels near the train station and has karaoke bars to keep you entertained while you wait. From Jining to Erlian there is a slow train that leaves in the morning, passes the Great Wall multiple times, and arrives in the early evening. This will take a night longer than getting the sleeper bus as described in "By bus". =====Crossing the border===== Be wary of scams at the border where people in uniform will attempt to sell you "required travel insurance." There is no such thing and you can safely ignore them. You should then cross the border from [[Erlian]] in China to [[Zamiin-Uud]] in Mongolia as described in [[Erlian#To and from Mongolia|Erlian to and from Mongolia]]. Once you have crossed the border, you will need to get from Zamiin-Uud to Ulaanbaatar as described in [[Zamiin-Uud#Get in|Zamiin-Uud get in]]. ===By car=== Many adventurous people drive to Mongolia, usually starting somewhere in Europe. [http://www.theadventurists.com/the-adventures/mongol-rally The Mongol Rally] and [http://mongolia.charityrallies.org/ Mongol Charity Rally]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} sponsor many of them. Driving to Mongolia can be extremely challenging in many respects. Not only are there virtually no roads in the western half of Mongolia, but vehicle registration, import fees and paperwork, visas and everything have to be ready for every country along the way. For those who still wish to make the journey by car, there are 4 land border crossings with Russia and 3 with China. Though it is much more expensive and difficult to drive through, into, or out of China in your own car. :*See '''[[Driving in China]]''' for issues for driving to Mongolia from China. ====From Russia==== The main border is in Altanbulag-Kyakhta ([[Sühbaatar]]), nearest to the capital, is open 24 hours a day. In the far west is the Tsagaannuur-Tashanta crossing in [[Bayan-Olgii]], is open Monday to Saturday 09:00-18:00 and is the most popular with adventure drivers. Also in the west is Borshoo-Khandgait crossing between [[Uvs]] and [[Tuva| Tuva Republic]], is open Monday to Friday 09:00-18:00. In the east, Ereentsav-Solovyovsk crossing near [[Choibalsan]] is open daily 09:00-18:00. ===By bus=== There is a paved road connecting Ulaanbaatar to the Chinese border, and one between UB and Russia. ====From Russia==== *Those interested in saving money can book one-way elektrichka (regional train) tickets from Irkutsk or Ulan Ude to Naushki. In Naushki, one can spend the night in the train resting rooms (komnati otdikha) for US$0.50 per hour. From there, it is possible to take a marshrutka to the land border crossing town of [[Kyakhta]], Russia. Walking across the border is prohibited, but travellers have no problems arranging for Mongolia-bound cars to take them across the border, for either a small fee or free. Upon crossing into Mongolia it is relatively easy to hitchhike, taxi, or bus to [[Sühbaatar]] or UB, as all southbound traffic is headed towards those cities. *From the west, from Russia, it is possible to cross at the land border in Tsagaannuur, Bayan-Olgii. There are daily petrol and wheat-carrying Russian Kamaz trucks headed to Olgii and it is possible to hitchhike to Tsagaannuur or even [[Olgii]]. Regular buses and marshrutkas also operate from the border, though service is unpredictable due to the lack of a schedule. There is also a bus every 10 days between either [[Astana]] or [[Almaty]], [[Kazakhstan]] and Olgii. ====From China==== * Liuliqiao long-distance bus station (六里桥客运主枢纽 or lìu lǐ qiáo kè yùn zhǔ shū nǐu), phone +86 10 8383–1716, address: A1, Liuliqiao Nan Li, Fengtai District. Departure at 16:30. These are supposed to run daily, but may not. You can phone at 10:00 on the morning of departure to see if the bus is running and to reserve a place. * Muxiyuan long-distance bus station (木樨园才华长途汽车站), phone +86 10 6726–7149, location: go to Liujiayao Metro Station and get a cab. Departs at 17:00. * Lizeqiao long-distance bus station (丽泽桥长途汽车站), phone (丽泽桥长途汽车站) Address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东 +86 10 6340–3408, address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东. Location is difficult to get to. Departs at 17:00. From [[Hohhot]] by bus costs 88 Chinese yuan and takes 6-7 hr. There are several daily buses. Once in Erlian, follow the '''Crossing the border''' and '''From the border to Ulaanbaatar''' steps above. Should you be travelling at a busy time (e.g., around Naadam on the 11th and 12th July) and want to be sure of getting tickets for the last leg of the trip in Mongolia, you could take one of the packages from the guesthouses in Beijing. These cost around 570 yuan (July 2009) and include a taxi to the coach station in Beijing, Beijing to [[Erlian]] by sleeper coach, a bed in the hotel in the bus station for a few hours, a bus from Erlian to [[Zamiin-Üüd]] across the border, then soft sleeper overnight from Zamiin-Üüd to [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Purchased separately, the tickets cost about 360 yuan. The Saga guesthouse in Beijing sells these, and although they insist till they're blue in the face that the train is a hard sleeper, it's actually a soft sleeper! ===By bicycle=== At Zamiin-Uud you have to put your bicycle in a car. You are not allowed to cycle through the 3-km-wide border area. Prepare to bargain. They will start at US$100 and more. You should be able to get them down to US$20 or less. If you are lucky and get up early, you might catch a truck. They will take you for free. Usually you have better chances with Mongol drivers, if you want to cross into Mongolia. At Altanbulag you also have to put the bicycle in a car, but prices are reasonable and usually fixed. Enjoy watching your driver smuggle goods in or out of Mongolia. ===By thumb or foot=== The road passes through the border town of [[Zamiin-Üüd]] and continues to Ulaanbaatar. Hitchhiking in Mongolia is not easy and a little bit of money for the driver is expected. There is an average of one car every hour heading into the desert. Rules at the border require that you ride a bus or car across the border, not walk across. However, they do not care how you get there or where you go afterwards. ==Get around== If you plan to travel around the countryside without a guide, take a [[GPS]] and some maps. The "Mongolia Road Atlas" is available in many book shops, it has over 60 pages and covers the whole country: there is a Latin-character version and Cyrillic-character version, in the countryside most people won't understand the Latin version. More detailed maps are available at the Mongolian Government Map Store. These maps are 1:500,000. Also, some other special-purpose maps and a good map of downtown Ulaanbaatar. The map store is on Ih Toiruu St. Go west from the State Department Store on the main street, called Peace, Peace and Friendship, or Ekhtavan Ave., two blocks to the large intersection with traffic lights, turn right (north) and the map store is about halfway along the block. There is an Elba electronic appliance store set back from the street, a yellow and blue building, the next building is a 4-story, Russian-style office building, the map store entrance is on the west side, toward the south end of the building. It lines up with the north wall of the Elba building. Whichever the method of long-distance travel, keep in mind that everything in Mongolia has a tendency to break down. Don't be shocked if part of the suspension breaks and the driver jerry-rigs a carved wooden block in the place of a mount. For more serious breakdowns, it can easily take an entire day or longer for somebody to come along and help, so leave plenty of slack in itineraries. Finally, Mongolians are rather notorious for being late. A bus that is scheduled to leave at 08:00 will probably not be out of the city until almost 11:00. The entirety of the country is public property, and - especially in the winter - drivers will simply peel off the paved roads and chart their own paths to get to a certain destination. Often, many of the destinations are not near any permanent roads, requiring this off-roading to get to them. If driving off-road, take extra care to ensure that you have the proper supplies and knowledge to survive in the event your vehicle breaks down or gets stuck. It is also highly recommended to have a guide who knows the area and/or a strong knowledge of Mongolian with which you can converse with local nomads to inquire where exactly your destination is and how to get to it. ===By plane=== [[image:AeroMongoliaFokker50.jpg|thumb|An AeroMongolia plane]] The easiest way to travel long distance is via one of the domestic airlines: AeroMongolia or Hunnu Air. Almost all flights are between Ulaanbaatar and the Aimag centers. Except for mines in the south Govi and [[Choibalsan]], which use Boeing 737s, most flights use turboprop regional planes. AeroMongolia uses a two-tier price structure, charging foreigners significantly more than locals, while Hunnu has only one price. Other than price, there is little difference between the airlines. Air travel agents, guest houses and hotels can help you to obtain domestic air tickets in Mongolia. *{{listing | name=AeroMongolia | url=http://aeromongolia.mn/ | email=reservation@aeromongolia.mn | address= | lat= | long= | directions=1st floor, Monnis tower, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 11 330373 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-18:00; Sa 10:00-18:00 | price= | content= It is generally cheaper, but uses older planes and charges foreigners double the local rate. }} *{{listing | name=Hunnu Air | url=http://hunnuair.com/ | email=info@hunnuair.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= Chinggis avenue 10-1, Sukhbaatar district, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 7000 1111 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Formerly Mongolian Airlines. }} ===By train=== There is only one railway company in Mongolia, owned by the Russian and Mongolian governments, "Mongolian Railway". It is probably the best way to experience something of the communist time, even if it has evolved a bit since then. Ulaanbaatar railway agents more often consider the passenger as a potential rulebreaker than as a client. The railway network is poor, consisting mainly of the Irkutsk-Ulaanbaatar-Beijing Trans-Mongolian way with a few extensions. Trains are extremely slow. They usually leave on time, and arrive on time or less than 20 minutes late. Intercity bus routes on the roughly parallel paved roads will get you there much faster. The local trains stop at many small stations in the countryside. For example, there is the small town of Batsumber, located about 34 km north of Ulaanbaatar (as the crow flies), longer on the train. Take your camping gear and hike to the mountains about 10 km east of the town. There are two streams flowing west out of the mountains, hike and camp along the streams. There is a small restaurant, and food shops in the town. ====Train tickets==== It's possible to pay for train tickets by credit card. For online booking of train tickets, go to the [https://eticket.ubtz.mn/ official website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (an English version is available, but not all the information is translated). The website is not the most user-friendly, but fortunately [http://wandersimply.com/how-to-buy-mongolian-train-tickets-online/ Wander Simply] has a good write-up on how to navigate the site and buy tickets. Alternatively, contact the company [http://www.traintomongolia.com Train to Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to buy tickets at a commission. You pay an extra fee if you book in advance, and also an extra fee if you buy it in the train, which is the only possibility left if there are less than 10 minutes left before the train departure. Your passport is required to buy a ticket, but you can buy several people's tickets with one passport. There are 3 classes: "coupé", "sleeping", and "public" (translated into English by "economic" by the company). "Coupé" is the only one with doors. In "public" it's possible to have to spend the night sitting and even with little space on crowded days. The tickets are numbered, but, when the seats are exhausted, the company overbooks public seats with tickets numbered "0", at the same price. The "public" seats tickets are much cheaper (and much slower) than the coach, minivan and taxi competitors. In a coupé at night, you'll be charged for compulsory additional bed sheets inside the train. ====Inside a train==== You will be proposed drinks and Mongolian food inside the train, both by official sellers of the company and, at the big stations with long stops, by private people entering the train for that purpose. There are many conductors. Don't expect them to speak anything other than Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. Theft is rare on Mongolian trains, but keeping an eye on your belongings is generally a good idea. There are police on every train. On a long trip, your ticket will be checked repeatedly, and you'll be awakened throughout the night for that. However, nobody will wake you if you have to get off during the trip, but if you get off at the terminus, you'll be awakened, even more than one hour before arrival, depending on the agent. The '''train toilets''' close 30 minutes before the terminus, and sometimes even before that. ===By bus=== [[File:Juulchin Tourism Corp 12.JPG|thumb|Tourist bus in the [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]]] Travelling by local bus is also an option, though these buses tend to only connect the provincial capital with UB, and it is quite difficult to find any public transportation linking one provincial capital with another. Lately the bus situation has improved. Most cities and towns are referred to in two ways, their name or the name of the Aimag (province) or Soum (county), e.g. Dornod or Dornod Aimag or Choibalsan (the actual city name). Most buses have their destination on a card in the front window. If you have either name written down in Mongolian Cyrillic, show it to the drivers or helpers and they will get you on the right bus. There are two types of buses, microvans and large buses (some large buses are old Russian types and some are modern western types), depending on the road. The large buses run on schedule, but the micro-buses are much more lax. In Ulaanbaatar, there are two bus stations, one on the west near the Dragon Shopping Center and one on the East near the Botanical Gardens. Both stations are on Peace Avenue on opposite sides of the city. Multiple buses run between them. Get local to write directions. For the large buses buy your tickets the day before. In the Aimag centres, there will be service to Ulaanbaatar and to local soums (small county seats) and usually the next Aimag center. However, all locations may not be available at one location. Ask for help from the locals. For example, in Ondorkhaan, the capital of Khentii Province, there is a bus service between Ondorkhaan and UB from a central bus station, however the through buses going to/from UB to Dornod and Sukhbaatar Aimags (Choybalsan and Baruun-Urt) will stop at a gas station on the north side of the city. ====Bus tickets==== Tickets are sold in the station, not in the coach. Don't expect any cashier, driver or conductor to speak anything but Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. It's not possible to pay by credit card. Your passport is required to buy a ticket. If you have a luggage exceeding the standard (written in your ticket) in weight or size, you'll be asked for an extra fee by the conductor. You can negotiate this one. ====Inside a bus==== On some routes, the driver and the conductor illegally add extra passengers and pocket the cash. They might even try to make 3 people sit on 2 seats, for instance: you can protest in such a case. Your ticket gives you the right to a full seat and this is what you get in most coaches. The coach will usually stop for a rather quick lunch or dinner at a local snackshop or canteen. ===By minivan=== Public countryside taxis and minivans, often called purgon or mekr, offer more destinations than coaches and many more than train, especially between provinces. They are more dangerous than coaches and trains, and always overloaded. Most drivers don't respect the traffic rules. Countryside taxis and minivans leave when full. They always say they will go "now" ("odo") despite often departing hours later. See how many people are already sitting inside the vehicle to have an idea of how long you'll wait. Drivers also usually promise to pick up additional passengers and cargo before leaving town. ===By chartered jeep=== [[image:Mongol cable ferry.jpg|thumb|River ferry in Hovsgol]] It is also possible to charter a Jeep and driver for private use. Prices are typically negotiated by the kilometre. While far more expensive than sharing a ride with the locals, this means of transport is considerably more convenient and allows you to visit more remote sites. It can also be quite convenient to hire a guide to use during the length of your stay. Doing so can allow you to travel without worrying about taxi drivers overcharging by up to 10x for being a foreigner. ===By car=== One of the most convenient ways to get around is by car. This isn't to say that it's completely safe, however. Road accidents are very common in Mongolia, largely because of reckless driving habits. Drivers do not obey traffic rules and speeding is common. Many cars are in poor condition and not all of them are fitted with seat belts. The road network is narrow and generally in poor condition. Avoid driving at night, as most roads are unlit and may have obstacles and potholes. ===By taxi=== In the cities, taxis should charge about 1500&nbsp;₮ per km. The drivers will set their trip meter and charge accordingly. ===By horse=== For local travel, horse-back is a good option. Mongolians ride on wooden saddles, so if you value your buttocks it's probably a good idea to pick up a leather, Russian saddle in UB. ===By foot=== Walking is another great alternative. Since camping is possible anywhere, resting is never a problem. Wherever there is water, there are nomads, and if you stick to the major dirt roads you will encounter plenty of guanz, which can provide huge cheap meals to keep you going. Adopting the Mongolian style of sleeping outdoors is also an option: wrap yourself in wool blankets and then cover yourself with a Russian raincoat (essentially a tarpaulin in the form of a trench coat), and simply plop yourself down on the ground. One night sleeping this way gives a whole new appreciation for the wonders of sleeping bags and bivvy sacks/tents. ==See== [[image:Gandan Monastery 10.JPG|thumb|Monk at the Gandan Monastery]] Mongolia is a big country that has been beyond the reach of travellers and the normal trappings of civilization until the 21st century. Even today it can be difficult to travel between the few places that 'exist'. There is little noteworthy architecture in the country. Except for the short-lived capital of the Mongol Empire at '''[[Karakorum]] (Kharkhorin)''', the descendants of Genghis Khan left little evidence of their power inside their native homeland. Genghis Khan, who leveled cities from the Yellow Sea to the Caspian, was said to have only built one permanent building during his life, a warehouse to store his stupendous amount of loot. ====Archaeology==== [[File:BuddhaErdeneZuuMonasteryMongolia.JPG|thumb|Buddha at Erdene Zuu]] Though this structure no longer exists, the capital built by his son, Ögedei, does, as do countless artifacts in the National Museum in [[Ulaanbaatar]], and thousands of stone monuments and drawings spread throughout the country, some dating back thousands of years. After the gradual disintegration of the Mongol Empire, many Tibetan Buddhist monasteries were built, providing the most visible signs of Mongolia's history. Today only a few still stand after Stalinist religious purges. Of particular note is the '''[[Northern Mongolia|Amarbaysgalant Monastery]]''' in Selenge, the '''Erdene Zuu Monastery''' in Kharkhorin, and '''Gandan Monastery''' in Ulaanbaatar, all active religious sites with large numbers of resident lamas. During the communist era, the Soviets helped establish large modern cities and modern industries, which aren't very pretty, but are of some interest, particularly the biggest open-pit copper mine in Asia at [[Erdenet]]. For a country that prides itself on its nomadic heritage, there are a surprising amount of ruins of stone structures (and even cities) scattered about Mongolia. With the exception of Kharkhorin, practically none of these are anywhere near a paved road, but their isolation makes their grandeur even more impressive. People interested in the ethnogenesis of the Turkic peoples will not want to miss the '''Orkhon Inscriptions''' in the Orkhon Valley (about a 40 minute drive north of Kharkhorin). These two massive stone stelae contain the oldest written Turkic language, and serve as a sort of Rosetta Stone for the reconstruction of both Old Turkic and Proto-Turkic. The Turkish government has funded a nice museum on the site and a paved road from the museum to Kharkhorin, making the inscriptions easily accessible to travellers. =====Monasteries===== Before the religious purges, Mongolia had around 750 monasteries and was a theocracy. Many were destroyed, while some were turned into museums by the communists to display Mongolian art or the opulence of the former religious leaders. Today the '''Choijin Lama Monastery''' and the '''Bogd Khan Winter Palace''' are preserved as museums for the art of the Lamas and the toys of the former king. Other ancient monasteries are slowly reopening and recovering like the Amarbaysalant in Selenge Province or the Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar. Most monasteries today are small, newly built temples in towns that didn't even exist before the purges. =====Museums===== Besides the monastery museums, Ulaanbaatar hosts several interesting and noteworthy museums to see before going off to the countryside. The best one by far is the '''National Museum of Mongolia''' with large collections of artifacts from the Mongol Empire through the Democratic Revolution of 1990. The '''Chinggis Khaan Museum''' in Ulaanbaatar offers an even larger collection, although it only spans prehistory to the Qing Empire. Several other good art museums and lesser history and nature museums also exist in the city if you will be there for an extended time. Outside of the capital, every provincial center also has a small museum usually built by the communists and mostly not updated since they left. These museums are cheap and do have useful displays on local cultures and history. There are also some '''communist-era sites'''. ====Nature==== One thing that does look much the same as it always has is the unspoiled nature of Mongolia. Due to its very low population density, the lowest in the world, it is possible to travel days with only seeing the occasional nomadic herder interrupting endless rolling steppes, the vast [[Gobi]] desert, or the snow-capped Altai Mountains. Up north, Siberian forests surround the 2nd largest freshwater lake in Asia by volume, Hôvsgôl (or "Hövsgöl") lake, in [[Hövsgöl]] province, which is very beautiful. The '''Flaming Cliffs''' near [[Dalanzadgad]] are stunning just to see, but also contain some of the earliest and most important dinosaur discoveries. ====People==== The most memorable part of any trip to Mongolia, regardless of what drew you here, will certainly be the people. Mongolians are incredibly hospitable to guests. No trip here is complete without having dinner or staying the night with '''nomadic herders'''. Around a third of the population still earns a living as semi-nomadic herders living in gers (yurts) on the open steppe. While their diets are not very diverse, consisting of meat, flour, and dairy, they will seek to serve guests a feast of boiled or fried meat and hot milky tea, with traditional entertainments of music, singing, and maybe dance. There is some variation depending on which tribe or region, with Kazakhs near [[Ölgii]] being the most different with different language, diet, and dress, including the practice of '''eagle hunting'''. While the Tuvans have a beautiful, eerie singing style of throat-singing, and the Tsaatan people live isolated lives herding reindeer near Lake Hövsgöl. Then there are the Lama monks who are increasingly common in monasteries and elsewhere, and the '''Shaman priests''', who practice the ancient animist religions of worshiping nature and the earth, and are widely respected in Mongolia. ==Do== [[image:Mongolian honor guard procession.jpg|thumb|Mongolian honor guard]] Experiencing the culture and having a meal or spending the night with a nomadic family are authentic Mongolian experiences. Whether you go just outside of the capital or fly to the far corners of the country, this is the most memorable part of any trip. There are some variations on the experience, depending on the tribal group. The '''[[Trans-Siberian Railway]]''' passes through the country. Also follow the path of [[On the trail of Marco Polo|Marco Polo]] across Europe and Asia into Mongolia to visit the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in [[Karakorum]]. Mongolia is the least densely populated country in the world and has very little development of any kind outside of the capital and a few small towns. There often aren't even roads connecting these towns. This pristine setting means that Mongolia has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Traveling across this vast country is often an adventure in itself with tourists and adventurers alike going by car, motorcycle, bike, horse, camel, or foot. Most often this means camping on the shore of a river or with a nomadic family or in small roadside hotels in provincial towns. Along the way or on one of the many wild rivers and nature preserves, there is great fishing, particularly fly-fishing during the summer. Climbing the mountains in the west is popular as well as photographing the wildlife, flora, or the multitude of birds living or migrating through Mongolia. * Canoe down some of Mongolia's major rivers. * Listen to traditional Mongolian '''throat singing'''. * Visit reindeer herders, such as the Tsaatan Community, which is west of Khovsgol lake. Several tour companies sell tours to visit the reindeer herders living in high alpine mountains. To get there, ride horses from Tsagaannuur or Rinchinlhumbe. You need to get a border permit in UB or Murun before starting the tour. Most licensed tour companies can get the border permit if you provide your travel details in advance. Horse-trekking can be hard and long. But it's worth traveling there. * Local Bonda Lake Camp in Khatgal village near Lake Khovsgol offers fishing, hiking, winter tours, nomad visits, horseback riding, visiting reindeer herders and the Darhad valley. Horse riding, you can discover Lake Khovsgol and its beautiful waters, meet Tsataan (nomadic reindeer herders) living in gers in the north of Khovsgol area. This region is incredibly scenic, perched at 1645 m altitude in green mountains, covered with thick pine forests and lush meadows with grazing yaks and horses, and rich with wildlife: the lake has 9 species of fish and its surroundings are full of sheep, goats, elk and more than 430 species of birds. There are 5 Mongolian tribes nearby: Khalh, Darhad, Buriad, Hotgoid, and Urianhai. The camp has a hot shower, sauna, internet and a restaurant with Mongolian and European meals. *{{do | name=Mountain Climbing | alt= | url= | email= | address=All over Mongolia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Best to climb the highest peaks in July and August | price= | content=While much of the country is rolling steppe, there are several mountain ranges. The Altai Mountains in the west have several peaks of over {{ft|13,000}} up to {{ft|14,201}} in [[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]. The highest mountains have snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and require special equipment and experienced guides. Smaller mountains throughout the country can be hiked in an afternoon, including many surrounding the capital of Ulaanbaatar. }} ===Winter activities=== *{{listing | type=do | name=Join Kazakh eagle hunters on a hunt | alt= | url= | email= | address=In [[Western Mongolia]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=During the cold winter months, the Kazakhs in western Mongolia use eagles to hunt for foxes and hares, which are easier to see against the snow. Freezing temperatures and long days on Mongolian or Kazakh horses discourage most people from attempting this adventure. For those who do, seeing an eagle released from a man's forearm swoop down and kill a fox a mile away is an unforgettable experience. }} *Skiing: There is one ski resort outside of Ulaanbaatar with a ski lift, equipment rentals, instructors, and all the other features of a ski resort. The lift may be slow, and the runs a bit hard, but it does provide good entertainment for those visiting UB during the long, cold winter months. For more adventurous types, western Mongolia's large mountain ranges provide great '''back-country skiing'''. The spring months of April and May get the most snow and make the best skiing. Either join a tour or lug all of your own equipment. There aren't any ski shops in the nearby villages. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mongolian tögrög | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;₮ | date=January 2025 | USD=3,600 | EUR=4,200 | GBP=4,900 | CNY=500 | RUB=3,362 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mnt-mongolian-tughrik/ XE.com] }} The Mongolian currency is the '''tögrög''' (also spelled "tugrik", "tugrug" etc.; Mongol: төгрөг), denoted by the sign "'''₮'''" (ISO international currency code: '''MNT'''). You may also see the notations "tg" and "T". Banknote denominations in circulation are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000&nbsp;₮. It is virtually impossible to exchange tögrög outside the country, so don't exchange too much. US dollars are widely accepted in the tourist industry, especially for larger payments (hotels, guides, etc.), but are not usable in the countryside. ===Tipping=== In Mongolia tipping is rarely expected except in tourism-related services like tour guides. Waiters, taxis, and hotel attendants do not expect tips. Sometimes taxis will attempt to overcharge you by refusing to give change back, but this has nothing to do with gratuity. Some nicer restaurants and hotels in the capital do often add fees to the bill for service, especially for larger groups. ===Shopping=== *Mongolian cashmere is known as the best in the world, so consider buying garments and blankets from one of the many stores selling cashmere products. *Mongolia is famous for its copper mines Erdenet and Oyu Tolgoi. A copper bookmark might make an ideal souvenir and you can easily find this US$1 metal souvenir in Ulaanbaatar souvenir shops. *'''Kazakh embroideries''' made in [[Ölgii]] using traditional Kazakh designs are sold in many gift shops in Ulaanbaatar. *'''Paintings''' by local artists are excellent buys in Mongolia. *You can find '''felt poker-work''' in [[Erdenet]]. *It is illegal to take '''antiques''' out of the country without a special permit. *The huge open-air market, '''Narantuul''' ("The Black Market") in Ulaanbaatar offers the lowest prices on just about anything you could want. Beware of the many pickpockets and even attackers there. This can be a great place to get a good pair of ''riding boots''. You can opt for a variety of Mongolian styles, from fancy to the more practical, or even get a good set of Russian-style boots. *Mongolia is justly famous for its [[carpets]]. [[Erdenet]] is home to Mongolia's largest carpet factory, also making and selling slippers made of carpet, though its carpets are made by machine, not traditional methods. For traditional carpets, visit a local market, including the famous Black Market in [[Ulaanbaatar]]. ===Grocery shopping=== ''Prices as of April 2018:'' * Bread (1 loaf) - 1,600 ₮ * Bottled water (0.5 liter) - 600 ₮ * Beef (1kg) - 9,500 ₮ * Yogurt (0.45kg) - 1,600 ₮ * Beer (0.5 liter) - 2,000 ₮ to 5,000 ₮ * Milk (1 liter) - 2,350 ₮ * Potato (1kg) - 1,050 ₮ * Onion (1kg) - 1,550 ₮ * Coffee (0.8kg) - 12,000 ₮ * Banana (1kg) - 4,500 ₮ * Grape (1kg) - 11,000 ₮ * Apple juice (2 liters) - 5,000 ₮ * Eggs (10) - 4,450 ₮ ==Eat== {{infobox|Un-Mongolian barbecue|Boiled mutton? Aren't Mongolians famous for barbecue? Sadly, no: "Mongolian BBQ" was invented in Taiwan in the 1970s. Due to tourist demand, there is one Mongolian BBQ place in Ulaanbaatar now, but it's run by an American!}} [[File:Dishes_of_Mongolian_cuisine.jpg|thumb|The Mongolian trifecta: ''khuushuur'' fried dumplings on the left, ''buuz'' steamed dumplings on the right, and pieces of boiled mutton on top]] Anywhere you find people in Mongolia, you will also smell the scent of '''boiled mutton''', the principal dish of Mongolia. A typical herder in the countryside will eat little else, flavored only with a little salt. Vegetables and spices are very limited, and even flour may be in short supply, since the climate is poorly suited to agriculture. Restaurants, canteens and tea shops in Mongolia also have a mutton-centric menu, revolving around three dishes: * ''buuz'' (бууз) &mdash; Steamed dumplings stuffed with meat, often called the national dish of Mongolia. Derived from the Chinese ''baozi''. A set of 6 usually costs 1,200-2,000&nbsp;₮. * ''khuushuur'' (хуушууp) &mdash; Deep-fried stuffed flatbread with meat and onion, originally a festive dish but now ubiquitous. 3 or 4 will fill you up. * ''tsuivan'' (цуйван) &mdash; Fried noodles with meat and a few token vegetables, often served with ketchup on the side. Around 2,000-4,000&nbsp;₮ a serve. Horse, yak and beef are also eaten, and dairy products like ''byaslag'' (бяслаг), a mild, paneer-like fresh cheese, and ''öröm'' (өрөм), clotted cream, are also common. ''Aaruul'' (ааруул) dried curds are also a common snack: these are typically rock hard and have to be eaten by ''slowly'' dissolving them in your mouth, which eventually turns them into lumps of cheesy putty. [[File:Boodog made from a marmot.JPG|thumb|Preparing a marmot as ''boodog'']] For special occasions, ''boodog'' (боодог) or goat/marmot barbecue, is particularly worth experiencing. For about 15,000-20,000&nbsp;₮, a nomad will head out with his gun, shoot a marmot or a goat, and then cook it for you without a pot: the meat, vegetables, water and stones are cooked inside the skin of the animal. They skin it very carefully, and then tie off the holes at the legs and back side, put the food and hot stones inside, tie off the throat, and let it cook for about 30 minutes. Though rare, with only 692 cases of marmot plague recorded between 1928 to 2018, the Tarbagan marmot is known to carry the bubonic plague, but fatal cases tend to be those that partake in the consumption of raw marmot organs that are sometimes eatern separately from the ''boodog.'' Along the same lines is ''khorkhog'' (xopxoг), made of mutton, which is prepared like so: build a fire; toss stones into fire until red hot; place water, hot stones, onions, potatoes, carrots, and, finally, mutton chops, into a large vacuum-sealed kettle; let the kettle simmer over a fire for 30-60 minutes; open kettle carefully, as the top will inevitably explode, sending hot juices flying everywhere; once the kettle is opened, and all injuries have been tended to, eat contents of kettle, including the salty broth. This cooking method makes mutton taste tender and juicy, like slow-roasted turkey. Ask your guide if he or she can arrange one (but only during summer). ===Where to eat=== Ulaanbaatar has a cosmopolitan scene with plenty of international options, ranging from fine dining at the Kempinski to fast-food dumplings at [https://www.khaanbuuz.mn/ Khaan Buuz], the country's answer to McDonalds. The many Korean restaurants in particular are worth exploring. It is also the only place in the country where vegetarians can fairly easily find food, although tour agents can usually arrange vegetarian meals elsewhere with sufficient notice. In the countryside, the only dining option is often the ''guanz'' (гуанз), a roadside ''ger'' tent offering a simple menu, often only ''tsuivan'' noodles and salted milk tea. ==Drink== [[File:Mongolia 105.JPG|thumb|A milk pail in Mongolia]] The most common drink in Mongolia is '''salted milk tea''' (сүүтэй цай ''süütei tsai''), which is essentially a cup of boiled milk and water, sometimes with a couple pieces of tea leaf and/or a pinch of salt thrown in for good measure. A cup of this and a bowl of dried snacks is the first thing served when you visit a ''ger'', and it accompanies food at restaurants as well. The tea can be bulked up into a meal by adding in some toasted millet, rice, meat or bansh. You might want to build up your tolerance by drinking lots of milk in preparation for your stay because they don't drink much else, except perhaps boiled water if you specially request it during a longer stay. Also, most traditional nomadic foods such as dried yogurt and the like require acclimatization to milk as well. Cold drinks don't actually exist in the countryside (unless you intend to drink straight out of a river, generally not recommended). [[File:Homemade airag in Mongolia.jpg|thumb|A glass of homemade ''airag'', prepared in the blue plastic barrel in the background]] The national drink, though, is '''''airag''''' (айраг). Essentially the same as the Central Asian ''kumiss'', this is a summer seasonal drink made from fermented mare's milk, and is certainly an acquired taste. The alcohol content is less than that of beer, but can have noticeable effects. Be careful, if you aren't accustomed to drinking sour milk products, the first time might give you diarrhea as your stomach gets accustomed to it. This should only happen the first time though. Once you've completed the ritual, your digestive system shouldn't complain again. There are numerous ways to describe the taste, from bile-like to a mixture of lemonade and sour cream. The texture can also be offsetting to some people since it can be slightly gritty. It is worth keeping in mind that Airag is milk and a source of nutrients. After a day of riding it can actually be quite refreshing, once acquiring a taste for it. ''Airag'' is "microbrewed" locally, not commercially produced, but in season it's sold at stands including Gandantegchinlen Monastery and at the West Market in Ulaanbaatar. Much stronger than ''airag'' is '''''arkhi''''' (архи), a strong liquor distilled from milk and often called "milk vodka". Like vodka, the taste is quite neutral, and after you have your first shot of the vodka you won't feel anything, but a few minutes later it will get to your head. Most people in Mongolia usually drink this for medical reasons. First you heat up the vodka then put in a little bit of special oil which is also made from milk. Careful don't overheat it, you might get blind. Mongolians call their national vodka ''nermel arkhi'' ("distilled vodka") or ''changa yum'' ("tight stuff"). Many Russian-style vodkas are sold throughout the country. The best are '''Chinggis Khaan vodka''', '''Soyombo''' and '''Golden Chinggis'''. In Ulaanbaatar you can find most Western beers, from Miller to Heineken. They sell Budweiser -- not American Bud but the [[Czech Republic|Czech]] Budweiser. Local beer, such as Chingis, Gem Grand, Borgio or Sengur is fine. ==Sleep== Some '''western-style accommodation''' is available in [[Ulaanbaatar]], but it goes for western prices. There are a few nice guest houses in UB for less than US$10 per night (even as cheap as 3,000&nbsp;₮ if you're willing to share a room), but they are crowded during the tourist season and hard to get into. Out in the countryside, most of the hotels are rundown Soviet-era leftovers. A better option is tourist ''ger'', set up by entrepreneurial locals. Staying at one of these costs about ₮5000 per person per night. They often include breakfast and dinner as well. When staying in one of these guest ger, the usual gift-giving customs can be skipped. Finally, there are also '''ger-camps'''. Set up by tour companies, they do occasionally rent out space to independent travellers. Unfortunately, they tend to be both expensive (US$35 per person per night with 3 meals) and out of the way. To stay at a ger camp, use the online booking portals [https://ihotel.mn/ iHotel] and [http://www.mongoliagercamps.net Mongolian Ger Camps Network]. Except for the cities and larger towns, all land is publicly owned. This means you can '''pitch a tent''' pretty much anywhere. Courtesy dictates that you keep your distance from existing nomad encampments. Common sense dictates that you don't pitch a tent in the middle of or too close to a road. Nowadays, there are more than 300 hotels in Mongolia and these are graded between 1 and 5 stars. Hotels holding 3 stars or more are for tourist service and must obtain permission in order to operate. The Accommodation Grading Committee, consisting of the Ministry, travel industry associations and tourism researchers, rate an accommodation according to Mongolian standards. ==Learn== There are some '''language schools''' in the capital. The two most known to foreigners are Bridge School and Friends School. Both offer group study classes and individual tutors. Also, the [http://www.num.edu.mn/en/ National University of Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offers courses. It usually takes westerners about 9 to 18 months before they acquire good conversational abilities in Mongolian. Speakers of Korean, Japanese, and Turkic languages, like Turkish and Kazakh, tend to learn more quickly due to the similarities in grammatical structure. A Mongolian language school with a website is [http://mongolianlanguage.mn '''Nomiin Ger''']. ==Work== It can be difficult to find employment as a foreigner in Mongolia. Obtaining a work permit requires being sponsored by a Mongolian company and every company has a strict quota on the number of foreign nationals they may employ. Foreign nationals are not allowed to comprise more than 20% of a Mongolian company's workforce. This is as good as saying that the Mongolian government is reluctant to let foreigner workers compete with Mongolians. There is a huge demand for native English speakers as English teachers. Anyone who is interested in [[teaching English]] will have no trouble getting employment and a work visa through a school or organization. However, the pay is generally lower than in other countries. Though it'll usually be just enough for room and board plus a little extra. Local English-language media hire native speakers as editors, proof-readers and photojournalists. Volunteer work is available teaching English, assisting with charity work and joining archaeological digs. These jobs are easy to find and very rewarding. ==Stay safe== [[File:Sunset in Ulaanbaatar (6216619493).jpg|thumb|Sunset in Ulaanbaatar]] Mongolia is mostly a safe country to visit, but take care in nights and when alcohol is involved, and if venturing out away from shelter with risks of harsh weather. Women should be aware of problems common in conservative regions. [[Aggressive dogs]] may run in packs. Be wary of them since they are not likely to be as tame as domestic dogs elsewhere. Most fenced yards and gers have a guard dog that is usually all bark and no bite, though it is advised to make it aware of you so as to not surprise it, and carry a rock in case it does charge you. Manhole covers — or more precisely, the lack of such covers — is a surprisingly common cause of injuries among foreigners and (especially drunk) tourists. In smaller cities and outlying areas of the capital, there are many missing or poorly placed covers. Avoid stepping on any manhole and pay attention to where you walk. ===Crime and harassment=== Apart from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia is generally a safe place to travel. However, incidents of [[pickpockets|pickpocketing]] and bag slashing have occurred, so always keep your personal belongings in a safe place (money belts are highly recommended), especially in crowded areas or in places where your attention is diverted. Notorious places for theft are the Black Market (bazaar), the railway station and crowded bus stops. Unfortunately, xenophobia and violence towards foreigners is common. Alcoholism is a huge social problem and Mongolia has the highest rate of liver cancer in the world<!--according to www.wcrf.org and most other reputable sources-->. Do not acknowledge or approach any Mongolian man under the influence of alcohol. Many foreigners who go to bars and clubs at night report assault and general aggression. Mongolians are quite open people and tend to be curious and ask many questions just to be friendly. Try to answer diplomatically, and vaguely, especially relating to any perceived negative aspect of Mongolia. Violent crime is also common outside the capital city (Darkhan especially), so caution is required at night. In particular, dark or deserted alleys and streets should be avoided. Generally, if walking past 22:00, avoid people if at all possible. Mongolians can be very friendly, but their emotions and motives can change quite quickly. Someone who may genuinely just want to have a couple drinks with you may suddenly become aggressive regardless of your respect and polite actions. Corruption is a huge problem in Mongolia, and locals are convinced that the police are not to be trusted. There are small bands of Mongolian ultra-nationalist thugs that style themselves as neo-Nazis and have assaulted foreigners including whites, blacks, and particularly, Chinese. They are especially provoked by foreigner interaction with Mongolian women. They are mostly found in the capital, especially in the cheaper bars and nightclubs. Lone or female travelers need to exercise a higher degree of awareness of their surroundings, as getting groped in the chest or behind is not uncommon. Some actions like dancing close to a man will be seen as an open invitation, as Mongolians generally don't dance this way. === Weather conditions === Perhaps the biggest danger in Mongolia is the extreme weather. Owing to its large size, high elevation, proximity to [[Siberia]] in Russia, and its landlocked geography, Mongolian winters are incredibly harsh and temperatures can fall as low as -40° Celsius. That's why [[Ulaanbaatar]] is often dubbed the coldest capital city in the world. When visiting Mongolia in the winter, layer every article of clothing you own and '''do not''' walk around too much in the open. Frostbite is a real risk, and freezing to death is a possibility. If you are unprepared to deal with such weather conditions, visit Mongolia during the summer. === Driving === Driving in Mongolia can be dangerous, especially for those who are not used to driving in developing countries. Roads outside the capital tend to be in poor condition, and incredibly harsh weather makes things all the more difficult. In the capital, motorists can be aggressive and drunk driving is common. Take care when crossing roads or busy intersections. If you have little to no knowledge of Mongolian roads and driving around in isolated areas, it is '''strongly recommended''' that you do not drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Outside the capital, help is incredibly limited and you can get lost if you don't know what you're doing. If you must drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]], consider informing a trusted local about your plans. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Air pollution in ulaanbaatar.jpg|thumb|Air pollution in Ulaanbaatar]] * Nomads' dogs may have '''rabies'''. As a precaution, consider having a rabies shot before coming. * Marmots should not be eaten at certain times of the year because they can carry '''bubonic plague'''. That said, the disease is carried by the marmot's fleas so the afflicted tend to be fur traders, and marmot is not a mainstream dish even in Mongolia. * Hepatitis and tuberculosis are common throughout Mongolia. * '''[[Tap water]]''' is unsafe to drink. === Pollution === [[Ulaanbaatar]] has polluted air, largely due to pervasive coal-burning for domestic heating. If you suffer from a respiratory disease and plan to visit Mongolia in winter, consult a medical professional for advice. ==Respect== [[File:Jurte in der Mongolei.JPG|thumb|A common sight in the Mongolian countryside. If you have been invited to go inside one, accept it.]] Compared to other countries in Asia, Mongolians are generally straightforward. Expect someone to tell you exactly what they think and feel. Anti-China sentiment is high in Mongolia due to historiographical and cultural disputes, and because China is seen by Mongolians as a colonial oppressor. As such, refrain from wearing anything associated with China, and refrain from talking about China. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia is referred to as "southern Mongolia" by most Mongolians. Many Mongolians consider it to be Mongolian territory under Chinese occupation. Mongols traditionally live on the steppes, breeding horses, just like their ancestor Genghis Khan. Not surprisingly, following Western pleasantries will mostly not have the intended effect in Mongolia. Instead, try to follow local good manners. Always receive items with the '''right hand''', palm facing up. Drink from the right hand with the palm up as well. It is very rude to refuse a gift. If offered a plate of hospitality munchies, take at least a small nibble from something. Never point at anyone with your index finger since it implies disrespect. Whenever you approach a nomadic family, or enter a ger, you will, without knowing, break one or several of the many traditional, religious and superstitious customs. If you do become confused, don't panic, minor indiscretions will be tolerated and forgiven. The following do's and don'ts will help avoid offending anyone. === What to do=== * Say hello (sain bainuu) upon arriving (but repeating it when you see the same person is considered strange) * Take at least a sip, or a nibble, of the delicacies offered. * Pick up everything with an open hand, with your palm facing upwards. * Hold a cup by the bottom, and not by the top rim. * If by accident you tap someone's foot with yours, immediately shake hands with them (failing to do so will be seen as an insult). * Exchange pleasantries and engage in some small talk before asking someone for something. * Discuss one's family and the weather. In nomadic areas, asking about a nomad's animals is customary. * Discuss where you're from and what you're doing in Mongolia/the place you're visiting. * Show respect to elders and figures of authority. === What not to do === * Lean against a support column * Whistle inside a ger * Stand on, or lean over, the threshold * Stamp out a fire, or put water or any rubbish on it (fire is sacred to Mongolians) * Walk in front of an older person; or turn your back to the altar, or religious objects (except when leaving) * Take food from a communal plate with your left hand * Touch other people's hats * Do not have a long conversation in your own language in front of your hosts; make an effort to include your hosts. * Do not reject an invitation to visit a ger; hospitality is a cornerstone in the nomadic parts of Mongolia and outright rejecting an invitation will seriously offend the nomads. * Refuse food and drink offered by your hosts; as is the case in many Asian cultures, it is ''very rude'' to do this in Mongolia and shows no respect to your hosts. * Not finishing the food that has been offered to you; as is the case in many Asian cultures, wasting food is ''frowned upon''. * Urinate in lakes or bodies of water; water is considered sacred and holy in Mongolia. * Speak negatively about Genghis Khan. Most Mongolians revere him, and he is regarded as a national hero and the father of their nation. ==Connect== '''Internet cafés''' are less common than they were, but nicer restaurants provide Wi-Fi in the capital. The postal service is slow and most people have a PO Box if they want to get anything. It is possible to buy phone cards that can be used to call abroad very cheaply from domestic phones, but not all phones can do this. (You can ask for MiCom or MobiCom cards). In the countryside, cell phone carriers cover random villages. Between Mobicom, Unitel, and GMobile, all villages or Soum centers are covered. Internet cafés are plentiful in Aimag centers (provincial capitals) now, with all Aimag post offices having one, plus many smaller cafés. There is Internet in some Soums (villages), but this is rare, slow, and prone to frequent outages. To make local calls in Ulaanbaatar, use a phone of one of the many entrepreneurs with cellular telephones on the street corners. Expect to pay 150-200&nbsp;₮ per minute (June 2009 prices). ==Go next== ===To [[China]]=== From Ulaanbaatar, there are several options: Firstly, the international train. Tickets are sold in the ticket office in the VIP lounge on the second floor of the international ticket office across the street from the train station. The second option is to board the Hohhot international train and transfer at [[Erlian]] or [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]]. See the travel agency located on the 1st (ground) floor of the international ticket office for details. The third option is to take the daily train to [[Zamiin-Üüd]], Mongolia at the border and take a bus or jeep to China, then go to the bus or train station in [[Erlian]], China. ===To [[Russia]]=== There are buses and trains to [[Ulan Ude]], from where you can explore the [[Lake Baikal]] region or board the [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] in either direction. {{isPartOf|East_Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|47|104|zoom=5}} oc3qu03dxpwgwikeoide55md6752als 5091323 5091322 2025-07-11T10:29:39Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091323 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mongolian_landscape_banner.jpg|disambig=yes}} '''Mongolia''' ([[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]: Монгол улс, Traditional Mongolian: [[File:Monggol_ulus.svg|40px]]) has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Its vast and majestic emptiness is the country's enduring appeal: it brings the traveller into a close communion with nature and its nomadic inhabitants. It is one of the last places on earth where nomadic life lives on. The most memorable part of a trip to Mongolia will be its hospitable people. Mongolian culture has much in common with the cultures of [[Central Asia]]. Mongolia offers great opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing, fishing and photography. Traveling across this huge country is often an adventure in itself. ==Regions== The country can be categorised into five regions based on culture and geography. These regions are further divided into 21 provinces (aimags) and one provincial municipality. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Mongolia regions map.png | regionmaptext=Mongolia regions | regionmapsize=450px | region1name=[[Central Mongolia]] | region1color=#72b970 | region1description=Includes [[Ulaanbaatar]] and the popular tourist region of [[Arkhangai]]. | region2name=[[Eastern Mongolia]] | region2color=#c16161 | region2description=The birthplace of Genghis Khan and heart of the Mongolian steppe. | region3name=[[Gobi]] | region3color=#d0c56c | region3description=As the name implies, home to the immense Gobi Desert. | region4name=[[Northern Mongolia]] | region4color=#7db1de | region4description=Contains many of Mongolia's forests and the massive [[Lake Khövsgöl]]. | region5name=[[Western Mongolia]] | region5color=#a77da5 | region5description=Home of Lake Uvs Nuur and Tavan Bogd Mountains, is also the most diverse region with a dozen different tribes including the Kazakhs. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#72b970|title=[[Central Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207809,Q234713,Q276195,Q23430}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c16161|title=[[Eastern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207795,Q239040,Q244804}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d0c56c|title=[[Gobi]]|wikidata=Q276200,Q213272,Q211835,Q192945,Q236333,Q235579}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#7db1de|title=[[Northern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q209774,Q18827,Q244788,Q234710,Q234680}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a77da5|title=[[Western Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q191792,Q194098,Q192942,Q167764}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|46.46|103.71|zoom=4|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ulaanbaatar]]|url=|lat=47.92|long=106.92|wikidata=Q23430}} (''Ulan Bator'', [[Mongolian]]: '''Улаанбаатар''') – the capital city and starting point for most travel in this country. Half the population lives here. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Choibalsan]]|url=|lat=48.078333|long=114.535|wikidata=Q318245}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чойбалсан''') – large industrial city in the east *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Erdenet]]|url=|lat=49.027778|long=104.044444|wikidata=Q230628}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Эрдэнэт''') – Mongolia's second largest city and home to one of the world's biggest copper mines and a famous carpet factory *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hovd]]|url=|lat=48.004167|long=91.640556|wikidata=Q731256}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Ховд''') – a historic city at the crossroads of traditional Mongol and Kazakh culture *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Karakorum]]|url=|lat=47.210278|long=102.847778|wikidata=Q62677}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Хархорум''') – the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, established by Genghis' son Ogedei *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Mörön]]|url=|lat=49.635556|long=100.155556|wikidata=Q572951}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Мөрөн''') – a stopover for those visiting [[Hövsgöl]] province, it has several museums and a large collection of deer stones outside of town *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ölgii]]|url=|lat= 48.968333|long=89.968611|wikidata=Q297060}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Өлгий''') – a town in Mongolia's far western corner, the starting point for visiting Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Tsambagarav National Park and the eagle hunters who live *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Öndörkhaan|Chinggis]]|url=|lat=47.323333|long=110.661111}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чингис''') – near the birthplace (and possible burial site) of Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tsetserleg]]|url=|lat=47.476944|long=101.450278|wikidata=Q529834}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Цэцэрлэг''') – the most pleasant of Mongolia's provincial capitals sits in a beautiful forested valley in the Khangay mountains ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khogno Khan National Park]]|wikidata=Q93828284}} — a beautiful, and calm area boasting cultural sites such as Kharkhorin, the capital of the Mongolian Empire after Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]|lat=48.55|long=88.616667|wikidata=Q932232}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Алтай Таван богд байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — the tallest mountain and largest glacier in Mongolia, with Kazakh '''Eagle Hunters''' living in its shadow and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Petroglyphs]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Uvs Nuur Lake|lat=50.3|long=92.7}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Увс нуур''), [[Uvs|Uvs province]] — the largest lake in Mongolia and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Uvs Lake]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve]]|lat=47.541|long=108.343|wikidata=Q5618269}} — an ecotourism destination *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]|url=|lat=48.150204|long=107.576006|wikidata=Q1266074}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Горхи-Тэрэлж'') — a national park 70 km east of Ulaanbaatar *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Khövsgöl]]|lat=51.1|long=100.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Хөвсгөл нуур'') — a large freshwater alpine lake *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Darhad Valley|lat=51.166667|long=99.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Дархадын хотгор'') — home to the Reindeer people *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khustain Nuruu National Park]]|lat=47.765|long=105.878333|wikidata=Q1639106}} (Mongolian: ''Хустайн нуруу'') — Khustain Nuruu or Hustai National Park is home to the Takhi wild horses (also known as Przewalski's Horse). These are true wild horses which have never been domesticated. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park]]|lat=43.802729|long=101.589663|wikidata=Q1533528}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Говь гурван сайхан байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — Khongor Sand dunes, Yol Canyon, Bayanzag-Red Flaming Cliffs, and Khermen Tsav ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMongolia.png}} {{quote|Everybody needs to go to Mongolia just to see what it is to be a human being again.|author=Milla Jovovich, American actress.}} Mongolia is one of the world's largest landlocked countries, second only to [[Kazakhstan]] and is surrounded by two of the world's largest countries: [[China]] and [[Russia]]. It was the center of the [[Mongol Empire]], the largest contiguous empire in world history. With only 1.7 people per square kilometre, Mongolia has the lowest population density of any independent country. The country is nicknamed the "Land of Blue Skies," and with good reason. There are said to be about 250 sunny days throughout each year. The weather is bitterly cold during the winter, dropping down to -40°C in some parts. With many types of terrain — from desert to verdant mountains — the weather during the summer varies from region to region, but is generally hot. Outside of the Gobi desert, this time of year is marked with much rain in some areas, and it can become quite cool at night. For several letters, the ISO&nbsp;9 standard '''transliteration''' of Cyrillic is not widely used and there is no consensus either in Mongolia nor in Wikivoyage. Particularly, the same Cyrillic letter "х" is transliterated "h" or "kh", the letter "ө" is transliterated "ô", "ö", "o" or "u", but Latin "o" is also the transliteration of the Cyrillic "о", and Latin "u" is also the transliteration of Cyrillic "у" and "ү" (the latter should be transliterated "ù" according to ISO&nbsp;9, but this is rarely done). So, if you can't find a name as you wrote it, try other spellings. ''Mongolia'' may have geopolitical, cultural and geographical meanings. Modern-day Mongolia consists of what was historically ''Outer Mongolia'' (so-called when it was part of China). [[Inner Mongolia]] is politically separate and remains a province of China, sharing a border and a common cultural heritage with modern-day Mongolia. ===History=== {{see also|Mongol Empire|Imperial China}} [[File:USMC-100903-M-1294R-001.jpg|thumb|300px|Statue of Chinggis Khan outside the capital]] The recorded history of ancient Mongolia dates to the third century BC when the Xiongnu came to power among many other nomadic tribes. Due to illiteracy and their nomadic lifestyle, little was recorded by the Xiongnu of themselves; they first appear in recorded Chinese history as "barbarians" against whom the walls were built. Those walls later became known as the [[Great Wall of China]]. The Xiongnu were eventually defeated by China's Han Dynasty in AD 89. Xiongnu history is controversial. Different historians attribute them to several quite different ethnic groups. Some claim that Xiongnu is cognate to Hun Nu or even that these are basically the same group known as Huns centuries later in Europe, but both claims are contested. There have been several empires in Mongolia after the Xiongnu. The first strong state to emerge was the First Turkic Khaganate in AD 552 with its capital at Ötüken (modern-day [[Ordu-Baliq]]). However, due to political infighting, this empire fragmented into the Eastern Turkic Khaganate with its capital at Ötüken, and the Western Turkic Khaganate with its capital at [[Suyab]] (near [[Bishkek]] in modern-day [[Kyrgyzstan]]), in AD 603. Both of these states were eventually defeated by China's Tang Dynasty; the Eastern Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 630, while the Western Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 657. The next strong empire to emerge was the Uyghur Khaganate, with its capital Har Bulgas (Khar Bulgas or Xar Bulgas) near Har Horin. The Khitans who controlled northern China around AD 1000 as the Liao Dynasty had an administrative centre (Har Bukh) 120&nbsp;km to the northeast. The Turkish government has been promoting some Turkish Empire monuments and there is a museum full of artifacts at the Bilge Khaan site. The struggle for mere existence and power over other tribes continued until the time of Genghis Khan. Chinggis Khan, as he is known in Mongolia, born with the name Temüjin, came to power and united the warring tribes under the Great Mongol Empire in 1206. He was proclaimed Genghis Khan (Chingis Haan), meaning ruler of all Mongol tribes, and to this day, Mongolians consider him to be the father of their nation. The Mongol Empire was extended all the way to what is now [[Poland]] and [[Hungary]] in [[Europe]] under Genghis Khan, and they also conquered the Jurchen Jin Dynasty that then ruled northern China. His grandson, Kublai Khan, subsequently defeated the Chinese Song Dynasty and completed the conquest of China, establishing the Yuan Dynasty. [[Marco Polo]] travelled through much of the Mongol Empire in Kublai Khan's time. The Mongols were, however, driven back to the steppes by the Chinese Ming Dynasty under Emperor Hongwu. They were later progressively conquered by the Manchu Qing Dynasty in the 17th century, and played an important role in the Manchu conquest of China. An independent Mongol nation only reemerged in 1924. It was not recognised by China until 1945, as the Chinese were forced to grant independence to Outer Mongolia by the Soviet Union, in exchange for Soviet assistance in fighting the Japanese invasion. Thus, the historic region of Mongolia was split into two, with Outer Mongolia becoming the independent nation of Mongolia, while [[Inner Mongolia]] remained a province of China. Since that time, Mongolia has had a close relationship with the Soviet Union (and [[Russia]] after the breakup of the Soviet Union), with Russian becoming the most widely-spoken foreign language in Mongolia. Mongolia even replaced its traditional script with the Cyrillic alphabet. (The traditional script, however, continues to be used by ethnic Mongols in China.) Inner Mongolia was the more populated area before the partition, and the number of ethnic Mongols living in China still outnumbers the population of Mongolia. Following independence, the Soviet Union installed a communist government in Mongolia. Following the fall of communism in Europe, Mongolia enacted democratic reforms, which resulted in the first democratic multiparty elections in 1990. The democratic reforms culminated with the first peaceful transfer of power in 1996, when the incumbent Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party lost the elections, and handed power to the victorious Democratic Union. Mongolia's vast collection of natural resources such as gold, copper, and coal can very easily make it one of the wealthiest countries on the planet, but due to its landlocked geography, dependence on the goodwill of [[China]] and Russia, governmental and bureaucratic inefficiencies, Mongolia remains one of the least developed countries in Asia. ''The Secret History of the Mongols'' is one of the great recordings of Mongolian history. Every Mongolian reads the book in the modern Mongolian language. This is one of the oldest books in the Mongolian language. There are vivid similarities with the Bible in literary style, wording and story-telling. It is speculated that the author could have been a Christian or at least was very knowledgeable about the Bible. According to Hugh Kemp, Qadag is the most likely candidate for authorship of ''Secret History of the Mongols''. He writes about the history of ancient Mongolia and connects the modern reality with the ancient world. Even though the book is about the history of Christianity in Mongolia, it paints a view of ancient Mongolia from the height of 21st century. The ''History of Mongolia'' by B. Baabar is a good source for the modern history of Mongolia. [[On the trail of Marco Polo]] covers some travel through the Mongol Empire in the time of Genghis' grandson, Kublai Khan. ===People=== Mongolia is more than twice as big as Texas and nearly the same size as Alaska. Its area is 1.6 million km² (603,000 square miles), four times the size of Japan and larger than Spain, France and Germany combined. This makes Mongolia the sixth-largest country in Asia and 19th in the world, but the population is only 3.4 million (as of 2020), which makes Mongolia one of the least densely populated areas in Asia. Considering that half of the population lives in the capital city of Ulan Bator or Ulaanbaatar ("UB") that leaves lots of room for you to travel in the outback. Of course, the Gobi is even less dense. Almost another 40% of the population are scattered all over Mongolia with their 56 million head of sheep, goats, cattle, horses and camels. There are 21 provinces, called ''aimag''. Each ''aimag'' has a central city or town and about 15-22 sub-provinces called ''soum'', so you will know which ''aimag'' and which soum you are in. 70% of Mongolia is under the age of 35. The gender ratio is close to 1:1. It is home to various ethnic groups: 84% Khalkha Mongols, 6% Kazakhs and 10% other groups. More than 50% will say they are Buddhists, which is very much mixed with Shamanism, close to 10% will claim to be Christians of all forms and 4% follow Islam, the remainder will say that they are atheists. Mongolian Buddhism is part of the Vajrayana school, which is also dominant in [[Tibet]] and [[Bhutan]]. Almost all the Kazakhs and Muslims live in [[Bayan-Ölgii|Bayan-Ölgii province]]. === Economy === Mongolia possesses abundant deposits of copper, coal, tin, tungsten, molybdenum, and gold. The cashmere industry is also an important industry; Mongolia and its neighbour, China, are responsible for 85% of the world's cashmere supply. Although that sounds impressive, Mongolia is a relatively poor and undeveloped country. With an economy that depends heavily on the mining sector and on the goodwill of its two large neighbours, the country's economy is highly vulnerable to external shocks. When the Soviet Union disintegrated in 1991, the Mongolian economy lost a third of its GDP overnight, plunging the country into a state of disarray. ===Holidays and festivals=== [[Image:Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Naadam festival celebrations]] The annual '''Naadam festival''' (11–13 July) is the biggest day in many Mongols' calendars. It is when Mongolia celebrates its "three manly sports": wrestling, horse racing, and archery by either watching the festivities in Ulaanbaatar or by following them on television or radio. Many other smaller Naadam festivals are also held in different aimags (provinces) throughout July, and these more intimate festivals may let you get much closer to the action. The Naadam celebrations are said to have started with the rise of the Great Mongolian Empire. Chinggis (a.k.a. Genghis) Khan used them to keep his warriors strictly fit. After the fall of the empire, the contests were held during religious festivals, and since the communist revolution it was celebrated on its anniversary. Legend has it that a woman once dressed like man and won the wrestling competition. That is why the long-sleeved wrestling costumes, called "zodog", have open chests - to show that every participant is male. Wrestlers wear short trunks, "shuudag", and Mongolian boots, "gutal". The yellow stripes on tales of wrestlers' hats will indicate the number of times the wrestler became a champion in Naadam. {{CNYdates}} Only Naadam gives official titles to the wrestlers. Mongolian wrestling tournaments have 9 or 10 rounds depending on the number of 512 or 1024 wrestlers registered for the competition that year. If the wrestler wins 5 rounds, he will be awarded title "Nachin" (bird), 6 rounds - Hartsaga (hawk), 7 rounds - Zaan (elephant), 8 rounds - Garuda (Eagle), 9 rounds - Arslan (lion) and 10 - Avarga (Titan). In 2006, Zaan (Elephant) Sumyabazar won 9 rounds that made him Garuda but that year 1024 wrestlers had 10 rounds which he won all. This entitled him to Avarga. Or Arslan (Lion) must win 2 in a row to become Avarga (Titan). The titles are for life. If Avarga (Titan) keeps winning at Naadam more and more attributes will be added to his title. There are no weight categories in Mongolian Wrestling tournaments but there is a time limit of 30 minutes, if the wrestlers can not overthrow each other, referees use lots for better position which often settles the match. One who falls or whose body touches the ground loses the match. Mongolian wrestling matches are attended by seconds whose role is to assist their wrestlers in all matters and to encourage them to win by spanking on their butts. They also sing praise songs and titles to the leading wrestlers of both wings, west and east, after 5 and 7 rounds. The referees monitor the rules but the people and the fans are the final judges. They will speak and spread the word of mouth about who is who till the next year. ====Smaller festivals==== *'''Tsagaan Sar''' (White moon) - starts on the Lunar New Year and is a 3-day public holiday. Its not big with tourists for the obvious reason of being during the coldest month of the year. A time when families reunite and have a large meal of sheep's tail, mutton, rice with curds, dairy products, and buuz. It is also typical to drink airag and exchange gifts. *'''Golden Eagle Festival''' in [[Ölgii]] on October 5th and 6th is the world's largest gathering of eagle hunters. The event typically has 60 to 70 Kazakh eagle hunters displaying their skills. The events include having their golden eagles fly to them on command and catching a fox fur being pulled by a horse from a perch on a nearby mountain. The event also features traditional Kazakh games including Kokpar (tug-of-war over a goat carcass while on horseback), Tiyn Teru (a timed race to pick up a coin on the ground while on horseback), and Kyz Kuar ("girl chase" a race between a man and woman where the woman whips the man while he tries to hold on). The festival also has a traditional Kazakh concert, camel race, and displays of Kazakh art. A smaller eagle festival is held on Sept 22nd in the nearby village of Sagsai. *'''Nauryz''' also in [[Ölgii]] is the traditional new year's celebration of Kazakhs held on 22 March. There is a parade, concert, and horse races during the several days of celebrating. Though most of the celebration involves visiting friends and relatives to eat Nauryz Koje (soup) and boiled mutton and horse meat. *'''Ice Festival''' is held on the frozen surface of Lake Hövsgöl outside of [[Mörön]] each February. The 2-day festival includes wrestling, reindeer sleighs and riding, ice skating, shaman rituals, folk concert, and cultural events of the Tsagaan reindeer people. You should be warned; It is ''very cold'' in Northern Mongolia in February. *'''Yak Festival''' on July 23rd in between [[Karakorum]] and [[Arvayheer]]. The festival celebrates this large mammal that thrives in the cold Mongolian winters with a full day of yak races, a rodeo, and other competitions. There is a market, tourist gers, and a whole temporary village set up in the middle of the steppe. *'''Camel Festival''' in South Gobi province: A local non-governmental organization that aims to protect and preserve the Bactrian camel population organizes "The Thousand Camel Festival" in Bulgan County, South Gobi Province. The festival includes two types of camel races, camel-polo, and some other competitions related to camel breeders' cultural heritage such as training of untamed camels, making ropes from camel wool and loading. There is also a folk concert by school children from the countryside. The festival is held annually March 6–7 for 2 days. ====Public holidays==== While most business still takes place on most holidays, Tsagaan Sar and Naadam tend to last much longer than the official 3 days. Work may stop for weeks in the countryside for Tsagaan Sar. Also, election days are always public holidays and dry days. Alcohol is not sold on election days or the 1st of each month nationwide. * New Years – January 1 * Tsagaan Sar – January/February (3 days, depends on Lunar New Year) * International Women's Day – March 8 * Soldiers' Day – March 18 (not a day off, just lots of parades) * Mothers' and Children's' Day – June 1 * Naadam Festival – July 11–13 * Genghis Khan's Birthday – November 14 * Independence Day – November 26 (no longer a day off, replaced by Genghis Khan's Birthday) '''Working hours''' are almost always posted in 24 hours. Shops are usually open 10:00 to 21:00 or 22:00, and sometimes closed or shortened hours on Sunday or Monday. Banks usually open 08:00 or 09:00 to 17:00, though often closed for an hour for lunch. However, posted times are not always reliable, especially in the countryside. Expect shops to open at maybe 10:15 or 10:30 more often than not. Restaurants typically close around 22:00, while bars stay open until midnight or later. There are a few fast food restaurants in the capital that stay open until 03:00, but no shops open past midnight. ===Climate=== [[File:Khövsgöl Aimag12.JPG|thumb|Steppe in [[Hovsgol]] — if you want to experience desolate landscapes, Mongolia has plenty of them.]] The ideal Mongolia travel season starts in May and peaks in July, during the Naadam holiday, and in August when the weather is most favourable for travelling. This is the best time if you like the culture and can bear the crowds of other tourists. It is not a good time to get away from your busy lifestyle because of the traffic, busy schedules, waiting in lines, etc. September is also a very good time to visit, and October is not too late to travel to Mongolia. It is still warm during the days but a bit chilly during the nights. In the autumn, Mongolia is not very crowded, and this is time for late-comers and last-minute, unplanned trips. You will get to sightsee, enjoy the culture, and taste mare's milk, a bitter and at first somewhat unpleasant drink, throughout the country. For visitors not afraid of cold or fermented mare's milk, travelling to Mongolia from November till the Lunar New Year remains an option. Winter tourism is a developing area of the Mongolian tourism industry. The most rewarding experience will be visiting the nomads, as this is the time when you will experience their culture first-hand during "Tsagaan Sar" or the traditional (Lunar) New Year celebration. Cultural activities including singing, dancing, wrestling, and winter horse racing are available to tourists. Mongolia is known to have 250-260 sunny days throughout the year, so you will need good [[Sunburn and sun protection|UV protection]]. During winter, protect your eyes, and during summer, protect your skin. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.mongolia.travel/ Mongolia Travel] website ==Talk== {{see also|Mongolian phrasebook|Russian phrasebook}} The official language of Mongolia is '''[[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]'''. Mongolian in Mongolia is written using the '''Cyrillic alphabet''', which was introduced around the 1940s. Mongolian Cyrillic uses all the letters used in the [[Russian]] alphabet and has two extra letters: '''Ө''' and '''Ү'''. Very few people know how to read and write Mongolian using the '''traditional Mongolian script''' (written from top to bottom, and still widely used by ethnic Mongols in China), although since the 1990s, it has been gradually regaining popularity. Mongolian belongs to the Mongolic family of languages, which also includes some minority languages of Russia such as Buryat and Kalmyk, and is not known to be related to any other language family. That being said, Mongolian shares a decent amount of words and grammar structures with the Turkic languages (Turkish, Uzbek, Kazakh, etc.) due to historical proximity, so speakers of a Turkic language will have a somewhat easier time navigating Mongolian. Loanwords from languages such as Sanskrit, [[Russian]], English, and [[Persian]] are common and are used in everyday conversations. Mongolian is widely regarded as a very difficult language for an English-speaker to learn. It is an agglutinative language that makes extensive use of suffixing, makes use of nine grammatical cases, and has a number of pronunciation rules and differences. Don't let this intimidate you, though; Mongolians will appreciate your efforts to speak their language, even if your knowledge of it is rudimentary. If you speak Japanese, Korean, Manchu or a Turkic language, some aspects of Mongolian grammar will be familiar to you. '''[[Kazakh phrasebook|Kazakh]]''' is spoken in the westernmost province of the country and by the small but growing population of ethnic Kazakhs living in Ulaanbaatar. Due to Mongolia's longstanding alliance with the [[Soviet Union]] (and [[Russia]] since the fall of the Soviet Union), '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' is spoken by many older Mongolians, although proficiency drops drastically outside Ulaanbaatar. '''English''' is the most popular foreign language among younger Mongolians, and is widely taught in schools. Outside the capital, little of it is spoken. ==Get in== Historically, Mongolia had a reputation for being a very difficult country to visit. Until the mid-1990s, you had to solicit an invitation letter from someone living in Mongolia to visit Mongolia. Lately, the visa rules have been relaxed and most people can enter the country without a visa. The Mongolian government declared the 2023-2024 tourist season the "Year of Mongolia", relaxing visa requirements for many countries, including all major Western nations. Whether this will become a permanent change is yet to be seen. ===Entry requirements=== [[File:New visa policy of Mongolia 2023.png|thumb|375px|Visa policy of Mongolia {{legend|#ed1c24|Mongolia}} {{legend|#22b14c|Visa-free (90 days)}} {{legend|#79d343|Visa-free (30 days)}} {{legend|#b5e61d|Visa-free (21 days)}} {{legend|#ffb583|Visa-free (14 days)}} {{legend|#ffd000|Visa on arrival (30 days)}} {{legend|#a1d4b0|eVisa (30 days)}} {{legend|#ababab|Visa required in advance}}]] Citizens of [https://en.consul.mn/visa/c/83 the following countries/territories]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} can enter Mongolia '''visa-free''': *'''For up to 90 days:''' [[Argentina]], [[Belarus]], [[Brazil]], [[Chile]], [[Ecuador]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Kyrgyzstan]], [[Macau]], [[Peru]], [[Serbia]], [[South Korea]], [[Ukraine]] (with an "official invitation") and [[United States]] *'''For up to 30 days:''' Citizens of [[Canada]], [[Germany]], [[Israel]], [[Japan]], [[Laos]], [[Malaysia]], [[Russia]], [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], [[Turkey]], [[Uruguay]], and [[Uzbekistan]], as well as the following for tourism until the end of 2025: [[European Union]] member states, [[Australia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Monaco]], [[New Zealand]], [[Norway]], [[Switzerland]], and [[United Kingdom]] *'''For up to 21 days:''' [[Philippines]] *'''For up to 14 days:''' [[Hong Kong]] Everyone else, however, must apply for a visa. Obtaining a visa — by default, the Mongolian authorities issue '''thirty-day visas''' to all tourists — is relatively straightforward and effortless. ==== Applying for a Mongolian visa ==== Although requirements vary from diplomatic post to diplomatic post, you are normally asked to submit the following to obtain a Mongolian visa: * A visa application form * A passport-sized photo * A passport with a validity of more than six months * A copy of your travel itinerary * A copy of your hotel reservation * A copy of your bank statement * A letter of invitation (if you intend to stay longer than 30 days in Mongolia) * A letter of approval from the government (only required if you plan to study, work, or live in Mongolia) Also, it is possible to acquire an expedited visa in a matter of hours at the Mongolian consulate in Erlian, though there is a steep US$50 fee for this service. A similar service is available in the Mongolian consulate in the Russian city of [[Irkutsk]]. The [http://www.embassyofmongolia.co.uk/ Embassy of Mongolia in the UK website] is useful for updates, with the [http://embassyofmongolia.co.uk/?p=186&lang=en visa page]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offering information on visa applications at the embassy. [http://beijing.mfa.gov.mn/?lang=en The Embassy of Mongolia in China website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} hosts the form you will need to apply for your Mongolian visa in China, although the consulate does have them. To stay more than 30 days, you have to register at the Mongolia Immigration. ===By plane=== [[image:MIAT Boeing 737-800 at ULN.jpg|thumb|MIAT plane in Ulaanbaatar]] Thanks to a booming mining sector, '''Chinggis Khaan International Airport''' ({{IATA|UBN}}) in [[Ulaanbaatar]] is now connected to some major airport hubs in eastern Asia and Istanbul and Frankfurt. Flag carrier [http://www.miat.com/ MIAT Mongolian Airlines]{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operates daily flights (during some peak season - twice a day) from [[Beijing]] and [[Seoul]], twice a week flights from [[Hong Kong]], [[Moscow]] and [[Tokyo]] (during some peak season - from Narita). During peak summer season it increases flight frequencies and operates flights from [[Busan]] and [[Osaka]]. There are branch offices in Berlin, Moscow, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo and Beijing. Mongolia-based [http://www.hunnuair.com/ Hunnu Air] flies 3 times a week from [[Bangkok]] and 5 flights a week from Hong Kong. There are almost daily flights from Seoul on Korean Air as well as other flights through Beijing, and 3 flights a week to [[Istanbul]]. It is also possible to fly to Ulaanbaatar through Tokyo's Narita Airport. ===By train=== [[image:Trans Mongolian Train 01.jpg|thumb|Trans-Mongolian train]] {{main|Trans-Siberian Railway}} The '''Trans-Mongolian Line''' of the legendary [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] links [[Ulaanbaatar]] with [[Moscow]], [[Russia]] and [[Beijing]], [[China]]. The Mongolian line branches from the main Trans-Siberian at [[Ulan-Ude]], so you'll need to break your journey there if coming from points east like [[Vladivostok]]. There is a small water boiler at the end of each train car which dispenses free hot water, so it's a good idea to stock up on instant noodles and tea for the trip. Also, don't expect to encounter any English-speaking staff on the train or in the stations. ====From Russia==== The Trans-Siberian train crosses the Russia/Mongolia border at the town of [[Naushki]], Russia. Trains start from [[Moscow]] or [[Irkutsk]] going to either Ulaanbaatar or Beijing, with several stops on both sides of the border. Between Irkutsk and the border are [[Ulan-Ude]], Naushki, Dozornoe, and Khoit. Between the Russian border and Ulaanbaatar are [[Sühbaatar]], [[Darkhan (city)|Darkhan]], and Zuunkharaa, with possible stops in [[Erdenet]] and Salkhit. ====From China==== [[image:WheelChanging.jpg|thumb|Changing wheels at the Chinese border]] Second class (hard sleeper) costs about US$200 (2011) from [[Beijing]] to [[Ulaanbaatar]], crossing the border at [[Erlian]]/[[Zamiin-Üüd]]. There are two trains a week and the ride takes almost 30 hours, including a mandatory stop of 3-4 hours at Erlian while the train bogies are switched between Russian broad gauge and Chinese standard gauge. You will have to take all your belongings and leave the train for this operation, and will be confined to the waiting area at Erlian station, even if you're inbound to China and have already passed through immigration. You can, however, ask staff for a free ticket that will let you step outside to raid the nearby shops and restaurants for supplies. =====Beijing to the border===== If the [[Beijing]] - [[Ulaanbaatar]] train is sold out, as seems to be common, or you need a more frequent option, you can make your way from Beijing to the border at [[Erlian]] by '''local train''' as described below, and then on to Ulaanbaatar by bus and train. As of March 2011, there are morning flights from Beijing to Erlian out of Capital Airport Terminal 1 costing only ¥160, which is cheaper than the bus. Trains run daily from Beijing to [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]] or [[Hohhot]]. You can change there for a train to the border town of [[Erlian]] near the Mongolian-Chinese border. The K89 leaves Beijing in the morning and arrives at Jining in the evening. Jining has many hotels near the train station and has karaoke bars to keep you entertained while you wait. From Jining to Erlian there is a slow train that leaves in the morning, passes the Great Wall multiple times, and arrives in the early evening. This will take a night longer than getting the sleeper bus as described in "By bus". =====Crossing the border===== Be wary of scams at the border where people in uniform will attempt to sell you "required travel insurance." There is no such thing and you can safely ignore them. You should then cross the border from [[Erlian]] in China to [[Zamiin-Uud]] in Mongolia as described in [[Erlian#To and from Mongolia|Erlian to and from Mongolia]]. Once you have crossed the border, you will need to get from Zamiin-Uud to Ulaanbaatar as described in [[Zamiin-Uud#Get in|Zamiin-Uud get in]]. ===By car=== Many adventurous people drive to Mongolia, usually starting somewhere in Europe. [http://www.theadventurists.com/the-adventures/mongol-rally The Mongol Rally] and [http://mongolia.charityrallies.org/ Mongol Charity Rally]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} sponsor many of them. Driving to Mongolia can be extremely challenging in many respects. Not only are there virtually no roads in the western half of Mongolia, but vehicle registration, import fees and paperwork, visas and everything have to be ready for every country along the way. For those who still wish to make the journey by car, there are 4 land border crossings with Russia and 3 with China. Though it is much more expensive and difficult to drive through, into, or out of China in your own car. :*See '''[[Driving in China]]''' for issues for driving to Mongolia from China. ====From Russia==== The main border is in Altanbulag-Kyakhta ([[Sühbaatar]]), nearest to the capital, is open 24 hours a day. In the far west is the Tsagaannuur-Tashanta crossing in [[Bayan-Olgii]], is open Monday to Saturday 09:00-18:00 and is the most popular with adventure drivers. Also in the west is Borshoo-Khandgait crossing between [[Uvs]] and [[Tuva| Tuva Republic]], is open Monday to Friday 09:00-18:00. In the east, Ereentsav-Solovyovsk crossing near [[Choibalsan]] is open daily 09:00-18:00. ===By bus=== There is a paved road connecting Ulaanbaatar to the Chinese border, and one between UB and Russia. ====From Russia==== *Those interested in saving money can book one-way elektrichka (regional train) tickets from Irkutsk or Ulan Ude to Naushki. In Naushki, one can spend the night in the train resting rooms (komnati otdikha) for US$0.50 per hour. From there, it is possible to take a marshrutka to the land border crossing town of [[Kyakhta]], Russia. Walking across the border is prohibited, but travellers have no problems arranging for Mongolia-bound cars to take them across the border, for either a small fee or free. Upon crossing into Mongolia it is relatively easy to hitchhike, taxi, or bus to [[Sühbaatar]] or UB, as all southbound traffic is headed towards those cities. *From the west, from Russia, it is possible to cross at the land border in Tsagaannuur, Bayan-Olgii. There are daily petrol and wheat-carrying Russian Kamaz trucks headed to Olgii and it is possible to hitchhike to Tsagaannuur or even [[Olgii]]. Regular buses and marshrutkas also operate from the border, though service is unpredictable due to the lack of a schedule. There is also a bus every 10 days between either [[Astana]] or [[Almaty]], [[Kazakhstan]] and Olgii. ====From China==== * Liuliqiao long-distance bus station (六里桥客运主枢纽 or lìu lǐ qiáo kè yùn zhǔ shū nǐu), phone +86 10 8383–1716, address: A1, Liuliqiao Nan Li, Fengtai District. Departure at 16:30. These are supposed to run daily, but may not. You can phone at 10:00 on the morning of departure to see if the bus is running and to reserve a place. * Muxiyuan long-distance bus station (木樨园才华长途汽车站), phone +86 10 6726–7149, location: go to Liujiayao Metro Station and get a cab. Departs at 17:00. * Lizeqiao long-distance bus station (丽泽桥长途汽车站), phone (丽泽桥长途汽车站) Address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东 +86 10 6340–3408, address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东. Location is difficult to get to. Departs at 17:00. From [[Hohhot]] by bus costs 88 Chinese yuan and takes 6-7 hr. There are several daily buses. Once in Erlian, follow the '''Crossing the border''' and '''From the border to Ulaanbaatar''' steps above. Should you be travelling at a busy time (e.g., around Naadam on the 11th and 12th July) and want to be sure of getting tickets for the last leg of the trip in Mongolia, you could take one of the packages from the guesthouses in Beijing. These cost around 570 yuan (July 2009) and include a taxi to the coach station in Beijing, Beijing to [[Erlian]] by sleeper coach, a bed in the hotel in the bus station for a few hours, a bus from Erlian to [[Zamiin-Üüd]] across the border, then soft sleeper overnight from Zamiin-Üüd to [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Purchased separately, the tickets cost about 360 yuan. The Saga guesthouse in Beijing sells these, and although they insist till they're blue in the face that the train is a hard sleeper, it's actually a soft sleeper! ===By bicycle=== At Zamiin-Uud you have to put your bicycle in a car. You are not allowed to cycle through the 3-km-wide border area. Prepare to bargain. They will start at US$100 and more. You should be able to get them down to US$20 or less. If you are lucky and get up early, you might catch a truck. They will take you for free. Usually you have better chances with Mongol drivers, if you want to cross into Mongolia. At Altanbulag you also have to put the bicycle in a car, but prices are reasonable and usually fixed. Enjoy watching your driver smuggle goods in or out of Mongolia. ===By thumb or foot=== The road passes through the border town of [[Zamiin-Üüd]] and continues to Ulaanbaatar. Hitchhiking in Mongolia is not easy and a little bit of money for the driver is expected. There is an average of one car every hour heading into the desert. Rules at the border require that you ride a bus or car across the border, not walk across. However, they do not care how you get there or where you go afterwards. ==Get around== If you plan to travel around the countryside without a guide, take a [[GPS]] and some maps. The "Mongolia Road Atlas" is available in many book shops, it has over 60 pages and covers the whole country: there is a Latin-character version and Cyrillic-character version, in the countryside most people won't understand the Latin version. More detailed maps are available at the Mongolian Government Map Store. These maps are 1:500,000. Also, some other special-purpose maps and a good map of downtown Ulaanbaatar. The map store is on Ih Toiruu St. Go west from the State Department Store on the main street, called Peace, Peace and Friendship, or Ekhtavan Ave., two blocks to the large intersection with traffic lights, turn right (north) and the map store is about halfway along the block. There is an Elba electronic appliance store set back from the street, a yellow and blue building, the next building is a 4-story, Russian-style office building, the map store entrance is on the west side, toward the south end of the building. It lines up with the north wall of the Elba building. Whichever the method of long-distance travel, keep in mind that everything in Mongolia has a tendency to break down. Don't be shocked if part of the suspension breaks and the driver jerry-rigs a carved wooden block in the place of a mount. For more serious breakdowns, it can easily take an entire day or longer for somebody to come along and help, so leave plenty of slack in itineraries. Finally, Mongolians are rather notorious for being late. A bus that is scheduled to leave at 08:00 will probably not be out of the city until almost 11:00. The entirety of the country is public property, and - especially in the winter - drivers will simply peel off the paved roads and chart their own paths to get to a certain destination. Often, many of the destinations are not near any permanent roads, requiring this off-roading to get to them. If driving off-road, take extra care to ensure that you have the proper supplies and knowledge to survive in the event your vehicle breaks down or gets stuck. It is also highly recommended to have a guide who knows the area and/or a strong knowledge of Mongolian with which you can converse with local nomads to inquire where exactly your destination is and how to get to it. ===By plane=== [[image:AeroMongoliaFokker50.jpg|thumb|An AeroMongolia plane]] The easiest way to travel long distance is via one of the domestic airlines: AeroMongolia or Hunnu Air. Almost all flights are between Ulaanbaatar and the Aimag centers. Except for mines in the south Govi and [[Choibalsan]], which use Boeing 737s, most flights use turboprop regional planes. AeroMongolia uses a two-tier price structure, charging foreigners significantly more than locals, while Hunnu has only one price. Other than price, there is little difference between the airlines. Air travel agents, guest houses and hotels can help you to obtain domestic air tickets in Mongolia. *{{listing | name=AeroMongolia | url=http://aeromongolia.mn/ | email=reservation@aeromongolia.mn | address= | lat= | long= | directions=1st floor, Monnis tower, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 11 330373 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-18:00; Sa 10:00-18:00 | price= | content= It is generally cheaper, but uses older planes and charges foreigners double the local rate. }} *{{listing | name=Hunnu Air | url=http://hunnuair.com/ | email=info@hunnuair.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= Chinggis avenue 10-1, Sukhbaatar district, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 7000 1111 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Formerly Mongolian Airlines. }} ===By train=== There is only one railway company in Mongolia, owned by the Russian and Mongolian governments, "Mongolian Railway". It is probably the best way to experience something of the communist time, even if it has evolved a bit since then. Ulaanbaatar railway agents more often consider the passenger as a potential rulebreaker than as a client. The railway network is poor, consisting mainly of the Irkutsk-Ulaanbaatar-Beijing Trans-Mongolian way with a few extensions. Trains are extremely slow. They usually leave on time, and arrive on time or less than 20 minutes late. Intercity bus routes on the roughly parallel paved roads will get you there much faster. The local trains stop at many small stations in the countryside. For example, there is the small town of Batsumber, located about 34 km north of Ulaanbaatar (as the crow flies), longer on the train. Take your camping gear and hike to the mountains about 10 km east of the town. There are two streams flowing west out of the mountains, hike and camp along the streams. There is a small restaurant, and food shops in the town. ====Train tickets==== It's possible to pay for train tickets by credit card. For online booking of train tickets, go to the [https://eticket.ubtz.mn/ official website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (an English version is available, but not all the information is translated). The website is not the most user-friendly, but fortunately [http://wandersimply.com/how-to-buy-mongolian-train-tickets-online/ Wander Simply] has a good write-up on how to navigate the site and buy tickets. Alternatively, contact the company [http://www.traintomongolia.com Train to Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to buy tickets at a commission. You pay an extra fee if you book in advance, and also an extra fee if you buy it in the train, which is the only possibility left if there are less than 10 minutes left before the train departure. Your passport is required to buy a ticket, but you can buy several people's tickets with one passport. There are 3 classes: "coupé", "sleeping", and "public" (translated into English by "economic" by the company). "Coupé" is the only one with doors. In "public" it's possible to have to spend the night sitting and even with little space on crowded days. The tickets are numbered, but, when the seats are exhausted, the company overbooks public seats with tickets numbered "0", at the same price. The "public" seats tickets are much cheaper (and much slower) than the coach, minivan and taxi competitors. In a coupé at night, you'll be charged for compulsory additional bed sheets inside the train. ====Inside a train==== You will be proposed drinks and Mongolian food inside the train, both by official sellers of the company and, at the big stations with long stops, by private people entering the train for that purpose. There are many conductors. Don't expect them to speak anything other than Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. Theft is rare on Mongolian trains, but keeping an eye on your belongings is generally a good idea. There are police on every train. On a long trip, your ticket will be checked repeatedly, and you'll be awakened throughout the night for that. However, nobody will wake you if you have to get off during the trip, but if you get off at the terminus, you'll be awakened, even more than one hour before arrival, depending on the agent. The '''train toilets''' close 30 minutes before the terminus, and sometimes even before that. ===By bus=== [[File:Juulchin Tourism Corp 12.JPG|thumb|Tourist bus in the [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]]] Travelling by local bus is also an option, though these buses tend to only connect the provincial capital with UB, and it is quite difficult to find any public transportation linking one provincial capital with another. Lately the bus situation has improved. Most cities and towns are referred to in two ways, their name or the name of the Aimag (province) or Soum (county), e.g. Dornod or Dornod Aimag or Choibalsan (the actual city name). Most buses have their destination on a card in the front window. If you have either name written down in Mongolian Cyrillic, show it to the drivers or helpers and they will get you on the right bus. There are two types of buses, microvans and large buses (some large buses are old Russian types and some are modern western types), depending on the road. The large buses run on schedule, but the micro-buses are much more lax. In Ulaanbaatar, there are two bus stations, one on the west near the Dragon Shopping Center and one on the East near the Botanical Gardens. Both stations are on Peace Avenue on opposite sides of the city. Multiple buses run between them. Get local to write directions. For the large buses buy your tickets the day before. In the Aimag centres, there will be service to Ulaanbaatar and to local soums (small county seats) and usually the next Aimag center. However, all locations may not be available at one location. Ask for help from the locals. For example, in Ondorkhaan, the capital of Khentii Province, there is a bus service between Ondorkhaan and UB from a central bus station, however the through buses going to/from UB to Dornod and Sukhbaatar Aimags (Choybalsan and Baruun-Urt) will stop at a gas station on the north side of the city. ====Bus tickets==== Tickets are sold in the station, not in the coach. Don't expect any cashier, driver or conductor to speak anything but Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. It's not possible to pay by credit card. Your passport is required to buy a ticket. If you have a luggage exceeding the standard (written in your ticket) in weight or size, you'll be asked for an extra fee by the conductor. You can negotiate this one. ====Inside a bus==== On some routes, the driver and the conductor illegally add extra passengers and pocket the cash. They might even try to make 3 people sit on 2 seats, for instance: you can protest in such a case. Your ticket gives you the right to a full seat and this is what you get in most coaches. The coach will usually stop for a rather quick lunch or dinner at a local snackshop or canteen. ===By minivan=== Public countryside taxis and minivans, often called purgon or mekr, offer more destinations than coaches and many more than train, especially between provinces. They are more dangerous than coaches and trains, and always overloaded. Most drivers don't respect the traffic rules. Countryside taxis and minivans leave when full. They always say they will go "now" ("odo") despite often departing hours later. See how many people are already sitting inside the vehicle to have an idea of how long you'll wait. Drivers also usually promise to pick up additional passengers and cargo before leaving town. ===By chartered jeep=== [[image:Mongol cable ferry.jpg|thumb|River ferry in Hovsgol]] It is also possible to charter a Jeep and driver for private use. Prices are typically negotiated by the kilometre. While far more expensive than sharing a ride with the locals, this means of transport is considerably more convenient and allows you to visit more remote sites. It can also be quite convenient to hire a guide to use during the length of your stay. Doing so can allow you to travel without worrying about taxi drivers overcharging by up to 10x for being a foreigner. ===By car=== One of the most convenient ways to get around is by car. This isn't to say that it's completely safe, however. Road accidents are very common in Mongolia, largely because of reckless driving habits. Drivers do not obey traffic rules and speeding is common. Many cars are in poor condition and not all of them are fitted with seat belts. The road network is narrow and generally in poor condition. Avoid driving at night, as most roads are unlit and may have obstacles and potholes. ===By taxi=== In the cities, taxis should charge about 1500&nbsp;₮ per km. The drivers will set their trip meter and charge accordingly. ===By horse=== For local travel, horse-back is a good option. Mongolians ride on wooden saddles, so if you value your buttocks it's probably a good idea to pick up a leather, Russian saddle in UB. ===By foot=== Walking is another great alternative. Since camping is possible anywhere, resting is never a problem. Wherever there is water, there are nomads, and if you stick to the major dirt roads you will encounter plenty of guanz, which can provide huge cheap meals to keep you going. Adopting the Mongolian style of sleeping outdoors is also an option: wrap yourself in wool blankets and then cover yourself with a Russian raincoat (essentially a tarpaulin in the form of a trench coat), and simply plop yourself down on the ground. One night sleeping this way gives a whole new appreciation for the wonders of sleeping bags and bivvy sacks/tents. ==See== [[image:Gandan Monastery 10.JPG|thumb|Monk at the Gandan Monastery]] Mongolia is a big country that has been beyond the reach of travellers and the normal trappings of civilization until the 21st century. Even today it can be difficult to travel between the few places that 'exist'. There is little noteworthy architecture in the country. Except for the short-lived capital of the Mongol Empire at '''[[Karakorum]] (Kharkhorin)''', the descendants of Genghis Khan left little evidence of their power inside their native homeland. Genghis Khan, who leveled cities from the Yellow Sea to the Caspian, was said to have only built one permanent building during his life, a warehouse to store his stupendous amount of loot. ====Archaeology==== [[File:BuddhaErdeneZuuMonasteryMongolia.JPG|thumb|Buddha at Erdene Zuu]] Though this structure no longer exists, the capital built by his son, Ögedei, does, as do countless artifacts in the National Museum in [[Ulaanbaatar]], and thousands of stone monuments and drawings spread throughout the country, some dating back thousands of years. After the gradual disintegration of the Mongol Empire, many Tibetan Buddhist monasteries were built, providing the most visible signs of Mongolia's history. Today only a few still stand after Stalinist religious purges. Of particular note is the '''[[Northern Mongolia|Amarbaysgalant Monastery]]''' in Selenge, the '''Erdene Zuu Monastery''' in Kharkhorin, and '''Gandan Monastery''' in Ulaanbaatar, all active religious sites with large numbers of resident lamas. During the communist era, the Soviets helped establish large modern cities and modern industries, which aren't very pretty, but are of some interest, particularly the biggest open-pit copper mine in Asia at [[Erdenet]]. For a country that prides itself on its nomadic heritage, there are a surprising amount of ruins of stone structures (and even cities) scattered about Mongolia. With the exception of Kharkhorin, practically none of these are anywhere near a paved road, but their isolation makes their grandeur even more impressive. People interested in the ethnogenesis of the Turkic peoples will not want to miss the '''Orkhon Inscriptions''' in the Orkhon Valley (about a 40 minute drive north of Kharkhorin). These two massive stone stelae contain the oldest written Turkic language, and serve as a sort of Rosetta Stone for the reconstruction of both Old Turkic and Proto-Turkic. The Turkish government has funded a nice museum on the site and a paved road from the museum to Kharkhorin, making the inscriptions easily accessible to travellers. =====Monasteries===== Before the religious purges, Mongolia had around 750 monasteries and was a theocracy. Many were destroyed, while some were turned into museums by the communists to display Mongolian art or the opulence of the former religious leaders. Today the '''Choijin Lama Monastery''' and the '''Bogd Khan Winter Palace''' are preserved as museums for the art of the Lamas and the toys of the former king. Other ancient monasteries are slowly reopening and recovering like the Amarbaysalant in Selenge Province or the Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar. Most monasteries today are small, newly built temples in towns that didn't even exist before the purges. =====Museums===== Besides the monastery museums, Ulaanbaatar hosts several interesting and noteworthy museums to see before going off to the countryside. The best one by far is the '''National Museum of Mongolia''' with large collections of artifacts from the Mongol Empire through the Democratic Revolution of 1990. The '''Chinggis Khaan Museum''' in Ulaanbaatar offers an even larger collection, although it only spans prehistory to the Qing Empire. Several other good art museums and lesser history and nature museums also exist in the city if you will be there for an extended time. Outside of the capital, every provincial center also has a small museum usually built by the communists and mostly not updated since they left. These museums are cheap and do have useful displays on local cultures and history. There are also some '''communist-era sites'''. ====Nature==== One thing that does look much the same as it always has is the unspoiled nature of Mongolia. Due to its very low population density, the lowest in the world, it is possible to travel days with only seeing the occasional nomadic herder interrupting endless rolling steppes, the vast [[Gobi]] desert, or the snow-capped Altai Mountains. Up north, Siberian forests surround the 2nd largest freshwater lake in Asia by volume, Hôvsgôl (or "Hövsgöl") lake, in [[Hövsgöl]] province, which is very beautiful. The '''Flaming Cliffs''' near [[Dalanzadgad]] are stunning just to see, but also contain some of the earliest and most important dinosaur discoveries. ====People==== The most memorable part of any trip to Mongolia, regardless of what drew you here, will certainly be the people. Mongolians are incredibly hospitable to guests. No trip here is complete without having dinner or staying the night with '''nomadic herders'''. Around a third of the population still earns a living as semi-nomadic herders living in gers (yurts) on the open steppe. While their diets are not very diverse, consisting of meat, flour, and dairy, they will seek to serve guests a feast of boiled or fried meat and hot milky tea, with traditional entertainments of music, singing, and maybe dance. There is some variation depending on which tribe or region, with Kazakhs near [[Ölgii]] being the most different with different language, diet, and dress, including the practice of '''eagle hunting'''. While the Tuvans have a beautiful, eerie singing style of throat-singing, and the Tsaatan people live isolated lives herding reindeer near Lake Hövsgöl. Then there are the Lama monks who are increasingly common in monasteries and elsewhere, and the '''Shaman priests''', who practice the ancient animist religions of worshiping nature and the earth, and are widely respected in Mongolia. ==Do== [[image:Mongolian honor guard procession.jpg|thumb|Mongolian honor guard]] Experiencing the culture and having a meal or spending the night with a nomadic family are authentic Mongolian experiences. Whether you go just outside of the capital or fly to the far corners of the country, this is the most memorable part of any trip. There are some variations on the experience, depending on the tribal group. The '''[[Trans-Siberian Railway]]''' passes through the country. Also follow the path of [[On the trail of Marco Polo|Marco Polo]] across Europe and Asia into Mongolia to visit the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in [[Karakorum]]. Mongolia is the least densely populated country in the world and has very little development of any kind outside of the capital and a few small towns. There often aren't even roads connecting these towns. This pristine setting means that Mongolia has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Traveling across this vast country is often an adventure in itself with tourists and adventurers alike going by car, motorcycle, bike, horse, camel, or foot. Most often this means camping on the shore of a river or with a nomadic family or in small roadside hotels in provincial towns. Along the way or on one of the many wild rivers and nature preserves, there is great fishing, particularly fly-fishing during the summer. Climbing the mountains in the west is popular as well as photographing the wildlife, flora, or the multitude of birds living or migrating through Mongolia. * Canoe down some of Mongolia's major rivers. * Listen to traditional Mongolian '''throat singing'''. * Visit reindeer herders, such as the Tsaatan Community, which is west of Khovsgol lake. Several tour companies sell tours to visit the reindeer herders living in high alpine mountains. To get there, ride horses from Tsagaannuur or Rinchinlhumbe. You need to get a border permit in UB or Murun before starting the tour. Most licensed tour companies can get the border permit if you provide your travel details in advance. Horse-trekking can be hard and long. But it's worth traveling there. * Local Bonda Lake Camp in Khatgal village near Lake Khovsgol offers fishing, hiking, winter tours, nomad visits, horseback riding, visiting reindeer herders and the Darhad valley. Horse riding, you can discover Lake Khovsgol and its beautiful waters, meet Tsataan (nomadic reindeer herders) living in gers in the north of Khovsgol area. This region is incredibly scenic, perched at 1645 m altitude in green mountains, covered with thick pine forests and lush meadows with grazing yaks and horses, and rich with wildlife: the lake has 9 species of fish and its surroundings are full of sheep, goats, elk and more than 430 species of birds. There are 5 Mongolian tribes nearby: Khalh, Darhad, Buriad, Hotgoid, and Urianhai. The camp has a hot shower, sauna, internet and a restaurant with Mongolian and European meals. *{{do | name=Mountain Climbing | alt= | url= | email= | address=All over Mongolia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Best to climb the highest peaks in July and August | price= | content=While much of the country is rolling steppe, there are several mountain ranges. The Altai Mountains in the west have several peaks of over {{ft|13,000}} up to {{ft|14,201}} in [[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]. The highest mountains have snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and require special equipment and experienced guides. Smaller mountains throughout the country can be hiked in an afternoon, including many surrounding the capital of Ulaanbaatar. }} ===Winter activities=== *{{listing | type=do | name=Join Kazakh eagle hunters on a hunt | alt= | url= | email= | address=In [[Western Mongolia]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=During the cold winter months, the Kazakhs in western Mongolia use eagles to hunt for foxes and hares, which are easier to see against the snow. Freezing temperatures and long days on Mongolian or Kazakh horses discourage most people from attempting this adventure. For those who do, seeing an eagle released from a man's forearm swoop down and kill a fox a mile away is an unforgettable experience. }} *Skiing: There is one ski resort outside of Ulaanbaatar with a ski lift, equipment rentals, instructors, and all the other features of a ski resort. The lift may be slow, and the runs a bit hard, but it does provide good entertainment for those visiting UB during the long, cold winter months. For more adventurous types, western Mongolia's large mountain ranges provide great '''back-country skiing'''. The spring months of April and May get the most snow and make the best skiing. Either join a tour or lug all of your own equipment. There aren't any ski shops in the nearby villages. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mongolian tögrög | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;₮ | date=January 2025 | USD=3,600 | EUR=4,200 | GBP=4,900 | CNY=500 | RUB=4,600 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mnt-mongolian-tughrik/ XE.com] }} The Mongolian currency is the '''tögrög''' (also spelled "tugrik", "tugrug" etc.; Mongol: төгрөг), denoted by the sign "'''₮'''" (ISO international currency code: '''MNT'''). You may also see the notations "tg" and "T". Banknote denominations in circulation are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000&nbsp;₮. It is virtually impossible to exchange tögrög outside the country, so don't exchange too much. US dollars are widely accepted in the tourist industry, especially for larger payments (hotels, guides, etc.), but are not usable in the countryside. ===Tipping=== In Mongolia tipping is rarely expected except in tourism-related services like tour guides. Waiters, taxis, and hotel attendants do not expect tips. Sometimes taxis will attempt to overcharge you by refusing to give change back, but this has nothing to do with gratuity. Some nicer restaurants and hotels in the capital do often add fees to the bill for service, especially for larger groups. ===Shopping=== *Mongolian cashmere is known as the best in the world, so consider buying garments and blankets from one of the many stores selling cashmere products. *Mongolia is famous for its copper mines Erdenet and Oyu Tolgoi. A copper bookmark might make an ideal souvenir and you can easily find this US$1 metal souvenir in Ulaanbaatar souvenir shops. *'''Kazakh embroideries''' made in [[Ölgii]] using traditional Kazakh designs are sold in many gift shops in Ulaanbaatar. *'''Paintings''' by local artists are excellent buys in Mongolia. *You can find '''felt poker-work''' in [[Erdenet]]. *It is illegal to take '''antiques''' out of the country without a special permit. *The huge open-air market, '''Narantuul''' ("The Black Market") in Ulaanbaatar offers the lowest prices on just about anything you could want. Beware of the many pickpockets and even attackers there. This can be a great place to get a good pair of ''riding boots''. You can opt for a variety of Mongolian styles, from fancy to the more practical, or even get a good set of Russian-style boots. *Mongolia is justly famous for its [[carpets]]. [[Erdenet]] is home to Mongolia's largest carpet factory, also making and selling slippers made of carpet, though its carpets are made by machine, not traditional methods. For traditional carpets, visit a local market, including the famous Black Market in [[Ulaanbaatar]]. ===Grocery shopping=== ''Prices as of April 2018:'' * Bread (1 loaf) - 1,600 ₮ * Bottled water (0.5 liter) - 600 ₮ * Beef (1kg) - 9,500 ₮ * Yogurt (0.45kg) - 1,600 ₮ * Beer (0.5 liter) - 2,000 ₮ to 5,000 ₮ * Milk (1 liter) - 2,350 ₮ * Potato (1kg) - 1,050 ₮ * Onion (1kg) - 1,550 ₮ * Coffee (0.8kg) - 12,000 ₮ * Banana (1kg) - 4,500 ₮ * Grape (1kg) - 11,000 ₮ * Apple juice (2 liters) - 5,000 ₮ * Eggs (10) - 4,450 ₮ ==Eat== {{infobox|Un-Mongolian barbecue|Boiled mutton? Aren't Mongolians famous for barbecue? Sadly, no: "Mongolian BBQ" was invented in Taiwan in the 1970s. Due to tourist demand, there is one Mongolian BBQ place in Ulaanbaatar now, but it's run by an American!}} [[File:Dishes_of_Mongolian_cuisine.jpg|thumb|The Mongolian trifecta: ''khuushuur'' fried dumplings on the left, ''buuz'' steamed dumplings on the right, and pieces of boiled mutton on top]] Anywhere you find people in Mongolia, you will also smell the scent of '''boiled mutton''', the principal dish of Mongolia. A typical herder in the countryside will eat little else, flavored only with a little salt. Vegetables and spices are very limited, and even flour may be in short supply, since the climate is poorly suited to agriculture. Restaurants, canteens and tea shops in Mongolia also have a mutton-centric menu, revolving around three dishes: * ''buuz'' (бууз) &mdash; Steamed dumplings stuffed with meat, often called the national dish of Mongolia. Derived from the Chinese ''baozi''. A set of 6 usually costs 1,200-2,000&nbsp;₮. * ''khuushuur'' (хуушууp) &mdash; Deep-fried stuffed flatbread with meat and onion, originally a festive dish but now ubiquitous. 3 or 4 will fill you up. * ''tsuivan'' (цуйван) &mdash; Fried noodles with meat and a few token vegetables, often served with ketchup on the side. Around 2,000-4,000&nbsp;₮ a serve. Horse, yak and beef are also eaten, and dairy products like ''byaslag'' (бяслаг), a mild, paneer-like fresh cheese, and ''öröm'' (өрөм), clotted cream, are also common. ''Aaruul'' (ааруул) dried curds are also a common snack: these are typically rock hard and have to be eaten by ''slowly'' dissolving them in your mouth, which eventually turns them into lumps of cheesy putty. [[File:Boodog made from a marmot.JPG|thumb|Preparing a marmot as ''boodog'']] For special occasions, ''boodog'' (боодог) or goat/marmot barbecue, is particularly worth experiencing. For about 15,000-20,000&nbsp;₮, a nomad will head out with his gun, shoot a marmot or a goat, and then cook it for you without a pot: the meat, vegetables, water and stones are cooked inside the skin of the animal. They skin it very carefully, and then tie off the holes at the legs and back side, put the food and hot stones inside, tie off the throat, and let it cook for about 30 minutes. Though rare, with only 692 cases of marmot plague recorded between 1928 to 2018, the Tarbagan marmot is known to carry the bubonic plague, but fatal cases tend to be those that partake in the consumption of raw marmot organs that are sometimes eatern separately from the ''boodog.'' Along the same lines is ''khorkhog'' (xopxoг), made of mutton, which is prepared like so: build a fire; toss stones into fire until red hot; place water, hot stones, onions, potatoes, carrots, and, finally, mutton chops, into a large vacuum-sealed kettle; let the kettle simmer over a fire for 30-60 minutes; open kettle carefully, as the top will inevitably explode, sending hot juices flying everywhere; once the kettle is opened, and all injuries have been tended to, eat contents of kettle, including the salty broth. This cooking method makes mutton taste tender and juicy, like slow-roasted turkey. Ask your guide if he or she can arrange one (but only during summer). ===Where to eat=== Ulaanbaatar has a cosmopolitan scene with plenty of international options, ranging from fine dining at the Kempinski to fast-food dumplings at [https://www.khaanbuuz.mn/ Khaan Buuz], the country's answer to McDonalds. The many Korean restaurants in particular are worth exploring. It is also the only place in the country where vegetarians can fairly easily find food, although tour agents can usually arrange vegetarian meals elsewhere with sufficient notice. In the countryside, the only dining option is often the ''guanz'' (гуанз), a roadside ''ger'' tent offering a simple menu, often only ''tsuivan'' noodles and salted milk tea. ==Drink== [[File:Mongolia 105.JPG|thumb|A milk pail in Mongolia]] The most common drink in Mongolia is '''salted milk tea''' (сүүтэй цай ''süütei tsai''), which is essentially a cup of boiled milk and water, sometimes with a couple pieces of tea leaf and/or a pinch of salt thrown in for good measure. A cup of this and a bowl of dried snacks is the first thing served when you visit a ''ger'', and it accompanies food at restaurants as well. The tea can be bulked up into a meal by adding in some toasted millet, rice, meat or bansh. You might want to build up your tolerance by drinking lots of milk in preparation for your stay because they don't drink much else, except perhaps boiled water if you specially request it during a longer stay. Also, most traditional nomadic foods such as dried yogurt and the like require acclimatization to milk as well. Cold drinks don't actually exist in the countryside (unless you intend to drink straight out of a river, generally not recommended). [[File:Homemade airag in Mongolia.jpg|thumb|A glass of homemade ''airag'', prepared in the blue plastic barrel in the background]] The national drink, though, is '''''airag''''' (айраг). Essentially the same as the Central Asian ''kumiss'', this is a summer seasonal drink made from fermented mare's milk, and is certainly an acquired taste. The alcohol content is less than that of beer, but can have noticeable effects. Be careful, if you aren't accustomed to drinking sour milk products, the first time might give you diarrhea as your stomach gets accustomed to it. This should only happen the first time though. Once you've completed the ritual, your digestive system shouldn't complain again. There are numerous ways to describe the taste, from bile-like to a mixture of lemonade and sour cream. The texture can also be offsetting to some people since it can be slightly gritty. It is worth keeping in mind that Airag is milk and a source of nutrients. After a day of riding it can actually be quite refreshing, once acquiring a taste for it. ''Airag'' is "microbrewed" locally, not commercially produced, but in season it's sold at stands including Gandantegchinlen Monastery and at the West Market in Ulaanbaatar. Much stronger than ''airag'' is '''''arkhi''''' (архи), a strong liquor distilled from milk and often called "milk vodka". Like vodka, the taste is quite neutral, and after you have your first shot of the vodka you won't feel anything, but a few minutes later it will get to your head. Most people in Mongolia usually drink this for medical reasons. First you heat up the vodka then put in a little bit of special oil which is also made from milk. Careful don't overheat it, you might get blind. Mongolians call their national vodka ''nermel arkhi'' ("distilled vodka") or ''changa yum'' ("tight stuff"). Many Russian-style vodkas are sold throughout the country. The best are '''Chinggis Khaan vodka''', '''Soyombo''' and '''Golden Chinggis'''. In Ulaanbaatar you can find most Western beers, from Miller to Heineken. They sell Budweiser -- not American Bud but the [[Czech Republic|Czech]] Budweiser. Local beer, such as Chingis, Gem Grand, Borgio or Sengur is fine. ==Sleep== Some '''western-style accommodation''' is available in [[Ulaanbaatar]], but it goes for western prices. There are a few nice guest houses in UB for less than US$10 per night (even as cheap as 3,000&nbsp;₮ if you're willing to share a room), but they are crowded during the tourist season and hard to get into. Out in the countryside, most of the hotels are rundown Soviet-era leftovers. A better option is tourist ''ger'', set up by entrepreneurial locals. Staying at one of these costs about ₮5000 per person per night. They often include breakfast and dinner as well. When staying in one of these guest ger, the usual gift-giving customs can be skipped. Finally, there are also '''ger-camps'''. Set up by tour companies, they do occasionally rent out space to independent travellers. Unfortunately, they tend to be both expensive (US$35 per person per night with 3 meals) and out of the way. To stay at a ger camp, use the online booking portals [https://ihotel.mn/ iHotel] and [http://www.mongoliagercamps.net Mongolian Ger Camps Network]. Except for the cities and larger towns, all land is publicly owned. This means you can '''pitch a tent''' pretty much anywhere. Courtesy dictates that you keep your distance from existing nomad encampments. Common sense dictates that you don't pitch a tent in the middle of or too close to a road. Nowadays, there are more than 300 hotels in Mongolia and these are graded between 1 and 5 stars. Hotels holding 3 stars or more are for tourist service and must obtain permission in order to operate. The Accommodation Grading Committee, consisting of the Ministry, travel industry associations and tourism researchers, rate an accommodation according to Mongolian standards. ==Learn== There are some '''language schools''' in the capital. The two most known to foreigners are Bridge School and Friends School. Both offer group study classes and individual tutors. Also, the [http://www.num.edu.mn/en/ National University of Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offers courses. It usually takes westerners about 9 to 18 months before they acquire good conversational abilities in Mongolian. Speakers of Korean, Japanese, and Turkic languages, like Turkish and Kazakh, tend to learn more quickly due to the similarities in grammatical structure. A Mongolian language school with a website is [http://mongolianlanguage.mn '''Nomiin Ger''']. ==Work== It can be difficult to find employment as a foreigner in Mongolia. Obtaining a work permit requires being sponsored by a Mongolian company and every company has a strict quota on the number of foreign nationals they may employ. Foreign nationals are not allowed to comprise more than 20% of a Mongolian company's workforce. This is as good as saying that the Mongolian government is reluctant to let foreigner workers compete with Mongolians. There is a huge demand for native English speakers as English teachers. Anyone who is interested in [[teaching English]] will have no trouble getting employment and a work visa through a school or organization. However, the pay is generally lower than in other countries. Though it'll usually be just enough for room and board plus a little extra. Local English-language media hire native speakers as editors, proof-readers and photojournalists. Volunteer work is available teaching English, assisting with charity work and joining archaeological digs. These jobs are easy to find and very rewarding. ==Stay safe== [[File:Sunset in Ulaanbaatar (6216619493).jpg|thumb|Sunset in Ulaanbaatar]] Mongolia is mostly a safe country to visit, but take care in nights and when alcohol is involved, and if venturing out away from shelter with risks of harsh weather. Women should be aware of problems common in conservative regions. [[Aggressive dogs]] may run in packs. Be wary of them since they are not likely to be as tame as domestic dogs elsewhere. Most fenced yards and gers have a guard dog that is usually all bark and no bite, though it is advised to make it aware of you so as to not surprise it, and carry a rock in case it does charge you. Manhole covers — or more precisely, the lack of such covers — is a surprisingly common cause of injuries among foreigners and (especially drunk) tourists. In smaller cities and outlying areas of the capital, there are many missing or poorly placed covers. Avoid stepping on any manhole and pay attention to where you walk. ===Crime and harassment=== Apart from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia is generally a safe place to travel. However, incidents of [[pickpockets|pickpocketing]] and bag slashing have occurred, so always keep your personal belongings in a safe place (money belts are highly recommended), especially in crowded areas or in places where your attention is diverted. Notorious places for theft are the Black Market (bazaar), the railway station and crowded bus stops. Unfortunately, xenophobia and violence towards foreigners is common. Alcoholism is a huge social problem and Mongolia has the highest rate of liver cancer in the world<!--according to www.wcrf.org and most other reputable sources-->. Do not acknowledge or approach any Mongolian man under the influence of alcohol. Many foreigners who go to bars and clubs at night report assault and general aggression. Mongolians are quite open people and tend to be curious and ask many questions just to be friendly. Try to answer diplomatically, and vaguely, especially relating to any perceived negative aspect of Mongolia. Violent crime is also common outside the capital city (Darkhan especially), so caution is required at night. In particular, dark or deserted alleys and streets should be avoided. Generally, if walking past 22:00, avoid people if at all possible. Mongolians can be very friendly, but their emotions and motives can change quite quickly. Someone who may genuinely just want to have a couple drinks with you may suddenly become aggressive regardless of your respect and polite actions. Corruption is a huge problem in Mongolia, and locals are convinced that the police are not to be trusted. There are small bands of Mongolian ultra-nationalist thugs that style themselves as neo-Nazis and have assaulted foreigners including whites, blacks, and particularly, Chinese. They are especially provoked by foreigner interaction with Mongolian women. They are mostly found in the capital, especially in the cheaper bars and nightclubs. Lone or female travelers need to exercise a higher degree of awareness of their surroundings, as getting groped in the chest or behind is not uncommon. Some actions like dancing close to a man will be seen as an open invitation, as Mongolians generally don't dance this way. === Weather conditions === Perhaps the biggest danger in Mongolia is the extreme weather. Owing to its large size, high elevation, proximity to [[Siberia]] in Russia, and its landlocked geography, Mongolian winters are incredibly harsh and temperatures can fall as low as -40° Celsius. That's why [[Ulaanbaatar]] is often dubbed the coldest capital city in the world. When visiting Mongolia in the winter, layer every article of clothing you own and '''do not''' walk around too much in the open. Frostbite is a real risk, and freezing to death is a possibility. If you are unprepared to deal with such weather conditions, visit Mongolia during the summer. === Driving === Driving in Mongolia can be dangerous, especially for those who are not used to driving in developing countries. Roads outside the capital tend to be in poor condition, and incredibly harsh weather makes things all the more difficult. In the capital, motorists can be aggressive and drunk driving is common. Take care when crossing roads or busy intersections. If you have little to no knowledge of Mongolian roads and driving around in isolated areas, it is '''strongly recommended''' that you do not drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Outside the capital, help is incredibly limited and you can get lost if you don't know what you're doing. If you must drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]], consider informing a trusted local about your plans. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Air pollution in ulaanbaatar.jpg|thumb|Air pollution in Ulaanbaatar]] * Nomads' dogs may have '''rabies'''. As a precaution, consider having a rabies shot before coming. * Marmots should not be eaten at certain times of the year because they can carry '''bubonic plague'''. That said, the disease is carried by the marmot's fleas so the afflicted tend to be fur traders, and marmot is not a mainstream dish even in Mongolia. * Hepatitis and tuberculosis are common throughout Mongolia. * '''[[Tap water]]''' is unsafe to drink. === Pollution === [[Ulaanbaatar]] has polluted air, largely due to pervasive coal-burning for domestic heating. If you suffer from a respiratory disease and plan to visit Mongolia in winter, consult a medical professional for advice. ==Respect== [[File:Jurte in der Mongolei.JPG|thumb|A common sight in the Mongolian countryside. If you have been invited to go inside one, accept it.]] Compared to other countries in Asia, Mongolians are generally straightforward. Expect someone to tell you exactly what they think and feel. Anti-China sentiment is high in Mongolia due to historiographical and cultural disputes, and because China is seen by Mongolians as a colonial oppressor. As such, refrain from wearing anything associated with China, and refrain from talking about China. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia is referred to as "southern Mongolia" by most Mongolians. Many Mongolians consider it to be Mongolian territory under Chinese occupation. Mongols traditionally live on the steppes, breeding horses, just like their ancestor Genghis Khan. Not surprisingly, following Western pleasantries will mostly not have the intended effect in Mongolia. Instead, try to follow local good manners. Always receive items with the '''right hand''', palm facing up. Drink from the right hand with the palm up as well. It is very rude to refuse a gift. If offered a plate of hospitality munchies, take at least a small nibble from something. Never point at anyone with your index finger since it implies disrespect. Whenever you approach a nomadic family, or enter a ger, you will, without knowing, break one or several of the many traditional, religious and superstitious customs. If you do become confused, don't panic, minor indiscretions will be tolerated and forgiven. The following do's and don'ts will help avoid offending anyone. === What to do=== * Say hello (sain bainuu) upon arriving (but repeating it when you see the same person is considered strange) * Take at least a sip, or a nibble, of the delicacies offered. * Pick up everything with an open hand, with your palm facing upwards. * Hold a cup by the bottom, and not by the top rim. * If by accident you tap someone's foot with yours, immediately shake hands with them (failing to do so will be seen as an insult). * Exchange pleasantries and engage in some small talk before asking someone for something. * Discuss one's family and the weather. In nomadic areas, asking about a nomad's animals is customary. * Discuss where you're from and what you're doing in Mongolia/the place you're visiting. * Show respect to elders and figures of authority. === What not to do === * Lean against a support column * Whistle inside a ger * Stand on, or lean over, the threshold * Stamp out a fire, or put water or any rubbish on it (fire is sacred to Mongolians) * Walk in front of an older person; or turn your back to the altar, or religious objects (except when leaving) * Take food from a communal plate with your left hand * Touch other people's hats * Do not have a long conversation in your own language in front of your hosts; make an effort to include your hosts. * Do not reject an invitation to visit a ger; hospitality is a cornerstone in the nomadic parts of Mongolia and outright rejecting an invitation will seriously offend the nomads. * Refuse food and drink offered by your hosts; as is the case in many Asian cultures, it is ''very rude'' to do this in Mongolia and shows no respect to your hosts. * Not finishing the food that has been offered to you; as is the case in many Asian cultures, wasting food is ''frowned upon''. * Urinate in lakes or bodies of water; water is considered sacred and holy in Mongolia. * Speak negatively about Genghis Khan. Most Mongolians revere him, and he is regarded as a national hero and the father of their nation. ==Connect== '''Internet cafés''' are less common than they were, but nicer restaurants provide Wi-Fi in the capital. The postal service is slow and most people have a PO Box if they want to get anything. It is possible to buy phone cards that can be used to call abroad very cheaply from domestic phones, but not all phones can do this. (You can ask for MiCom or MobiCom cards). In the countryside, cell phone carriers cover random villages. Between Mobicom, Unitel, and GMobile, all villages or Soum centers are covered. Internet cafés are plentiful in Aimag centers (provincial capitals) now, with all Aimag post offices having one, plus many smaller cafés. There is Internet in some Soums (villages), but this is rare, slow, and prone to frequent outages. To make local calls in Ulaanbaatar, use a phone of one of the many entrepreneurs with cellular telephones on the street corners. Expect to pay 150-200&nbsp;₮ per minute (June 2009 prices). ==Go next== ===To [[China]]=== From Ulaanbaatar, there are several options: Firstly, the international train. Tickets are sold in the ticket office in the VIP lounge on the second floor of the international ticket office across the street from the train station. The second option is to board the Hohhot international train and transfer at [[Erlian]] or [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]]. See the travel agency located on the 1st (ground) floor of the international ticket office for details. The third option is to take the daily train to [[Zamiin-Üüd]], Mongolia at the border and take a bus or jeep to China, then go to the bus or train station in [[Erlian]], China. ===To [[Russia]]=== There are buses and trains to [[Ulan Ude]], from where you can explore the [[Lake Baikal]] region or board the [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] in either direction. {{isPartOf|East_Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|47|104|zoom=5}} mnnovav25ltjk53b00v5g2r5dmls286 5091324 5091323 2025-07-11T10:30:04Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091324 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mongolian_landscape_banner.jpg|disambig=yes}} '''Mongolia''' ([[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]: Монгол улс, Traditional Mongolian: [[File:Monggol_ulus.svg|40px]]) has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Its vast and majestic emptiness is the country's enduring appeal: it brings the traveller into a close communion with nature and its nomadic inhabitants. It is one of the last places on earth where nomadic life lives on. The most memorable part of a trip to Mongolia will be its hospitable people. Mongolian culture has much in common with the cultures of [[Central Asia]]. Mongolia offers great opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing, fishing and photography. Traveling across this huge country is often an adventure in itself. ==Regions== The country can be categorised into five regions based on culture and geography. These regions are further divided into 21 provinces (aimags) and one provincial municipality. {{Regionlist | regionmap=Mongolia regions map.png | regionmaptext=Mongolia regions | regionmapsize=450px | region1name=[[Central Mongolia]] | region1color=#72b970 | region1description=Includes [[Ulaanbaatar]] and the popular tourist region of [[Arkhangai]]. | region2name=[[Eastern Mongolia]] | region2color=#c16161 | region2description=The birthplace of Genghis Khan and heart of the Mongolian steppe. | region3name=[[Gobi]] | region3color=#d0c56c | region3description=As the name implies, home to the immense Gobi Desert. | region4name=[[Northern Mongolia]] | region4color=#7db1de | region4description=Contains many of Mongolia's forests and the massive [[Lake Khövsgöl]]. | region5name=[[Western Mongolia]] | region5color=#a77da5 | region5description=Home of Lake Uvs Nuur and Tavan Bogd Mountains, is also the most diverse region with a dozen different tribes including the Kazakhs. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#72b970|title=[[Central Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207809,Q234713,Q276195,Q23430}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c16161|title=[[Eastern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q207795,Q239040,Q244804}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d0c56c|title=[[Gobi]]|wikidata=Q276200,Q213272,Q211835,Q192945,Q236333,Q235579}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#7db1de|title=[[Northern Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q209774,Q18827,Q244788,Q234710,Q234680}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a77da5|title=[[Western Mongolia]]|wikidata=Q191792,Q194098,Q192942,Q167764}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|46.46|103.71|zoom=4|height=|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ulaanbaatar]]|url=|lat=47.92|long=106.92|wikidata=Q23430}} (''Ulan Bator'', [[Mongolian]]: '''Улаанбаатар''') – the capital city and starting point for most travel in this country. Half the population lives here. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Choibalsan]]|url=|lat=48.078333|long=114.535|wikidata=Q318245}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чойбалсан''') – large industrial city in the east *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Erdenet]]|url=|lat=49.027778|long=104.044444|wikidata=Q230628}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Эрдэнэт''') – Mongolia's second largest city and home to one of the world's biggest copper mines and a famous carpet factory *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hovd]]|url=|lat=48.004167|long=91.640556|wikidata=Q731256}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Ховд''') – a historic city at the crossroads of traditional Mongol and Kazakh culture *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Karakorum]]|url=|lat=47.210278|long=102.847778|wikidata=Q62677}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Хархорум''') – the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, established by Genghis' son Ogedei *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Mörön]]|url=|lat=49.635556|long=100.155556|wikidata=Q572951}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Мөрөн''') – a stopover for those visiting [[Hövsgöl]] province, it has several museums and a large collection of deer stones outside of town *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ölgii]]|url=|lat= 48.968333|long=89.968611|wikidata=Q297060}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Өлгий''') – a town in Mongolia's far western corner, the starting point for visiting Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Tsambagarav National Park and the eagle hunters who live *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Öndörkhaan|Chinggis]]|url=|lat=47.323333|long=110.661111}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Чингис''') – near the birthplace (and possible burial site) of Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tsetserleg]]|url=|lat=47.476944|long=101.450278|wikidata=Q529834}} ([[Mongolian]]: '''Цэцэрлэг''') – the most pleasant of Mongolia's provincial capitals sits in a beautiful forested valley in the Khangay mountains ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khogno Khan National Park]]|wikidata=Q93828284}} — a beautiful, and calm area boasting cultural sites such as Kharkhorin, the capital of the Mongolian Empire after Genghis Khan *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]|lat=48.55|long=88.616667|wikidata=Q932232}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Алтай Таван богд байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — the tallest mountain and largest glacier in Mongolia, with Kazakh '''Eagle Hunters''' living in its shadow and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Petroglyphs]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Uvs Nuur Lake|lat=50.3|long=92.7}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Увс нуур''), [[Uvs|Uvs province]] — the largest lake in Mongolia and a [[UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage Site: Uvs Lake]] *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve]]|lat=47.541|long=108.343|wikidata=Q5618269}} — an ecotourism destination *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]|url=|lat=48.150204|long=107.576006|wikidata=Q1266074}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Горхи-Тэрэлж'') — a national park 70 km east of Ulaanbaatar *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lake Khövsgöl]]|lat=51.1|long=100.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Хөвсгөл нуур'') — a large freshwater alpine lake *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=Darhad Valley|lat=51.166667|long=99.5}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Дархадын хотгор'') — home to the Reindeer people *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Khustain Nuruu National Park]]|lat=47.765|long=105.878333|wikidata=Q1639106}} (Mongolian: ''Хустайн нуруу'') — Khustain Nuruu or Hustai National Park is home to the Takhi wild horses (also known as Przewalski's Horse). These are true wild horses which have never been domesticated. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park]]|lat=43.802729|long=101.589663|wikidata=Q1533528}} (Mongolian Cyrillic: ''Говь гурван сайхан байгалийн цогцолбор газар'') — Khongor Sand dunes, Yol Canyon, Bayanzag-Red Flaming Cliffs, and Khermen Tsav ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMongolia.png}} {{quote|Everybody needs to go to Mongolia just to see what it is to be a human being again.|author=Milla Jovovich, American actress.}} Mongolia is one of the world's largest landlocked countries, second only to [[Kazakhstan]] and is surrounded by two of the world's largest countries: [[China]] and [[Russia]]. It was the center of the [[Mongol Empire]], the largest contiguous empire in world history. With only 1.7 people per square kilometre, Mongolia has the lowest population density of any independent country. The country is nicknamed the "Land of Blue Skies," and with good reason. There are said to be about 250 sunny days throughout each year. The weather is bitterly cold during the winter, dropping down to -40°C in some parts. With many types of terrain — from desert to verdant mountains — the weather during the summer varies from region to region, but is generally hot. Outside of the Gobi desert, this time of year is marked with much rain in some areas, and it can become quite cool at night. For several letters, the ISO&nbsp;9 standard '''transliteration''' of Cyrillic is not widely used and there is no consensus either in Mongolia nor in Wikivoyage. Particularly, the same Cyrillic letter "х" is transliterated "h" or "kh", the letter "ө" is transliterated "ô", "ö", "o" or "u", but Latin "o" is also the transliteration of the Cyrillic "о", and Latin "u" is also the transliteration of Cyrillic "у" and "ү" (the latter should be transliterated "ù" according to ISO&nbsp;9, but this is rarely done). So, if you can't find a name as you wrote it, try other spellings. ''Mongolia'' may have geopolitical, cultural and geographical meanings. Modern-day Mongolia consists of what was historically ''Outer Mongolia'' (so-called when it was part of China). [[Inner Mongolia]] is politically separate and remains a province of China, sharing a border and a common cultural heritage with modern-day Mongolia. ===History=== {{see also|Mongol Empire|Imperial China}} [[File:USMC-100903-M-1294R-001.jpg|thumb|300px|Statue of Chinggis Khan outside the capital]] The recorded history of ancient Mongolia dates to the third century BC when the Xiongnu came to power among many other nomadic tribes. Due to illiteracy and their nomadic lifestyle, little was recorded by the Xiongnu of themselves; they first appear in recorded Chinese history as "barbarians" against whom the walls were built. Those walls later became known as the [[Great Wall of China]]. The Xiongnu were eventually defeated by China's Han Dynasty in AD 89. Xiongnu history is controversial. Different historians attribute them to several quite different ethnic groups. Some claim that Xiongnu is cognate to Hun Nu or even that these are basically the same group known as Huns centuries later in Europe, but both claims are contested. There have been several empires in Mongolia after the Xiongnu. The first strong state to emerge was the First Turkic Khaganate in AD 552 with its capital at Ötüken (modern-day [[Ordu-Baliq]]). However, due to political infighting, this empire fragmented into the Eastern Turkic Khaganate with its capital at Ötüken, and the Western Turkic Khaganate with its capital at [[Suyab]] (near [[Bishkek]] in modern-day [[Kyrgyzstan]]), in AD 603. Both of these states were eventually defeated by China's Tang Dynasty; the Eastern Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 630, while the Western Turkic Khaganate fell in AD 657. The next strong empire to emerge was the Uyghur Khaganate, with its capital Har Bulgas (Khar Bulgas or Xar Bulgas) near Har Horin. The Khitans who controlled northern China around AD 1000 as the Liao Dynasty had an administrative centre (Har Bukh) 120&nbsp;km to the northeast. The Turkish government has been promoting some Turkish Empire monuments and there is a museum full of artifacts at the Bilge Khaan site. The struggle for mere existence and power over other tribes continued until the time of Genghis Khan. Chinggis Khan, as he is known in Mongolia, born with the name Temüjin, came to power and united the warring tribes under the Great Mongol Empire in 1206. He was proclaimed Genghis Khan (Chingis Haan), meaning ruler of all Mongol tribes, and to this day, Mongolians consider him to be the father of their nation. The Mongol Empire was extended all the way to what is now [[Poland]] and [[Hungary]] in [[Europe]] under Genghis Khan, and they also conquered the Jurchen Jin Dynasty that then ruled northern China. His grandson, Kublai Khan, subsequently defeated the Chinese Song Dynasty and completed the conquest of China, establishing the Yuan Dynasty. [[Marco Polo]] travelled through much of the Mongol Empire in Kublai Khan's time. The Mongols were, however, driven back to the steppes by the Chinese Ming Dynasty under Emperor Hongwu. They were later progressively conquered by the Manchu Qing Dynasty in the 17th century, and played an important role in the Manchu conquest of China. An independent Mongol nation only reemerged in 1924. It was not recognised by China until 1945, as the Chinese were forced to grant independence to Outer Mongolia by the Soviet Union, in exchange for Soviet assistance in fighting the Japanese invasion. Thus, the historic region of Mongolia was split into two, with Outer Mongolia becoming the independent nation of Mongolia, while [[Inner Mongolia]] remained a province of China. Since that time, Mongolia has had a close relationship with the Soviet Union (and [[Russia]] after the breakup of the Soviet Union), with Russian becoming the most widely-spoken foreign language in Mongolia. Mongolia even replaced its traditional script with the Cyrillic alphabet. (The traditional script, however, continues to be used by ethnic Mongols in China.) Inner Mongolia was the more populated area before the partition, and the number of ethnic Mongols living in China still outnumbers the population of Mongolia. Following independence, the Soviet Union installed a communist government in Mongolia. Following the fall of communism in Europe, Mongolia enacted democratic reforms, which resulted in the first democratic multiparty elections in 1990. The democratic reforms culminated with the first peaceful transfer of power in 1996, when the incumbent Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party lost the elections, and handed power to the victorious Democratic Union. Mongolia's vast collection of natural resources such as gold, copper, and coal can very easily make it one of the wealthiest countries on the planet, but due to its landlocked geography, dependence on the goodwill of [[China]] and Russia, governmental and bureaucratic inefficiencies, Mongolia remains one of the least developed countries in Asia. ''The Secret History of the Mongols'' is one of the great recordings of Mongolian history. Every Mongolian reads the book in the modern Mongolian language. This is one of the oldest books in the Mongolian language. There are vivid similarities with the Bible in literary style, wording and story-telling. It is speculated that the author could have been a Christian or at least was very knowledgeable about the Bible. According to Hugh Kemp, Qadag is the most likely candidate for authorship of ''Secret History of the Mongols''. He writes about the history of ancient Mongolia and connects the modern reality with the ancient world. Even though the book is about the history of Christianity in Mongolia, it paints a view of ancient Mongolia from the height of 21st century. The ''History of Mongolia'' by B. Baabar is a good source for the modern history of Mongolia. [[On the trail of Marco Polo]] covers some travel through the Mongol Empire in the time of Genghis' grandson, Kublai Khan. ===People=== Mongolia is more than twice as big as Texas and nearly the same size as Alaska. Its area is 1.6 million km² (603,000 square miles), four times the size of Japan and larger than Spain, France and Germany combined. This makes Mongolia the sixth-largest country in Asia and 19th in the world, but the population is only 3.4 million (as of 2020), which makes Mongolia one of the least densely populated areas in Asia. Considering that half of the population lives in the capital city of Ulan Bator or Ulaanbaatar ("UB") that leaves lots of room for you to travel in the outback. Of course, the Gobi is even less dense. Almost another 40% of the population are scattered all over Mongolia with their 56 million head of sheep, goats, cattle, horses and camels. There are 21 provinces, called ''aimag''. Each ''aimag'' has a central city or town and about 15-22 sub-provinces called ''soum'', so you will know which ''aimag'' and which soum you are in. 70% of Mongolia is under the age of 35. The gender ratio is close to 1:1. It is home to various ethnic groups: 84% Khalkha Mongols, 6% Kazakhs and 10% other groups. More than 50% will say they are Buddhists, which is very much mixed with Shamanism, close to 10% will claim to be Christians of all forms and 4% follow Islam, the remainder will say that they are atheists. Mongolian Buddhism is part of the Vajrayana school, which is also dominant in [[Tibet]] and [[Bhutan]]. Almost all the Kazakhs and Muslims live in [[Bayan-Ölgii|Bayan-Ölgii province]]. === Economy === Mongolia possesses abundant deposits of copper, coal, tin, tungsten, molybdenum, and gold. The cashmere industry is also an important industry; Mongolia and its neighbour, China, are responsible for 85% of the world's cashmere supply. Although that sounds impressive, Mongolia is a relatively poor and undeveloped country. With an economy that depends heavily on the mining sector and on the goodwill of its two large neighbours, the country's economy is highly vulnerable to external shocks. When the Soviet Union disintegrated in 1991, the Mongolian economy lost a third of its GDP overnight, plunging the country into a state of disarray. ===Holidays and festivals=== [[Image:Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Naadam festival celebrations]] The annual '''Naadam festival''' (11–13 July) is the biggest day in many Mongols' calendars. It is when Mongolia celebrates its "three manly sports": wrestling, horse racing, and archery by either watching the festivities in Ulaanbaatar or by following them on television or radio. Many other smaller Naadam festivals are also held in different aimags (provinces) throughout July, and these more intimate festivals may let you get much closer to the action. The Naadam celebrations are said to have started with the rise of the Great Mongolian Empire. Chinggis (a.k.a. Genghis) Khan used them to keep his warriors strictly fit. After the fall of the empire, the contests were held during religious festivals, and since the communist revolution it was celebrated on its anniversary. Legend has it that a woman once dressed like man and won the wrestling competition. That is why the long-sleeved wrestling costumes, called "zodog", have open chests - to show that every participant is male. Wrestlers wear short trunks, "shuudag", and Mongolian boots, "gutal". The yellow stripes on tales of wrestlers' hats will indicate the number of times the wrestler became a champion in Naadam. {{CNYdates}} Only Naadam gives official titles to the wrestlers. Mongolian wrestling tournaments have 9 or 10 rounds depending on the number of 512 or 1024 wrestlers registered for the competition that year. If the wrestler wins 5 rounds, he will be awarded title "Nachin" (bird), 6 rounds - Hartsaga (hawk), 7 rounds - Zaan (elephant), 8 rounds - Garuda (Eagle), 9 rounds - Arslan (lion) and 10 - Avarga (Titan). In 2006, Zaan (Elephant) Sumyabazar won 9 rounds that made him Garuda but that year 1024 wrestlers had 10 rounds which he won all. This entitled him to Avarga. Or Arslan (Lion) must win 2 in a row to become Avarga (Titan). The titles are for life. If Avarga (Titan) keeps winning at Naadam more and more attributes will be added to his title. There are no weight categories in Mongolian Wrestling tournaments but there is a time limit of 30 minutes, if the wrestlers can not overthrow each other, referees use lots for better position which often settles the match. One who falls or whose body touches the ground loses the match. Mongolian wrestling matches are attended by seconds whose role is to assist their wrestlers in all matters and to encourage them to win by spanking on their butts. They also sing praise songs and titles to the leading wrestlers of both wings, west and east, after 5 and 7 rounds. The referees monitor the rules but the people and the fans are the final judges. They will speak and spread the word of mouth about who is who till the next year. ====Smaller festivals==== *'''Tsagaan Sar''' (White moon) - starts on the Lunar New Year and is a 3-day public holiday. Its not big with tourists for the obvious reason of being during the coldest month of the year. A time when families reunite and have a large meal of sheep's tail, mutton, rice with curds, dairy products, and buuz. It is also typical to drink airag and exchange gifts. *'''Golden Eagle Festival''' in [[Ölgii]] on October 5th and 6th is the world's largest gathering of eagle hunters. The event typically has 60 to 70 Kazakh eagle hunters displaying their skills. The events include having their golden eagles fly to them on command and catching a fox fur being pulled by a horse from a perch on a nearby mountain. The event also features traditional Kazakh games including Kokpar (tug-of-war over a goat carcass while on horseback), Tiyn Teru (a timed race to pick up a coin on the ground while on horseback), and Kyz Kuar ("girl chase" a race between a man and woman where the woman whips the man while he tries to hold on). The festival also has a traditional Kazakh concert, camel race, and displays of Kazakh art. A smaller eagle festival is held on Sept 22nd in the nearby village of Sagsai. *'''Nauryz''' also in [[Ölgii]] is the traditional new year's celebration of Kazakhs held on 22 March. There is a parade, concert, and horse races during the several days of celebrating. Though most of the celebration involves visiting friends and relatives to eat Nauryz Koje (soup) and boiled mutton and horse meat. *'''Ice Festival''' is held on the frozen surface of Lake Hövsgöl outside of [[Mörön]] each February. The 2-day festival includes wrestling, reindeer sleighs and riding, ice skating, shaman rituals, folk concert, and cultural events of the Tsagaan reindeer people. You should be warned; It is ''very cold'' in Northern Mongolia in February. *'''Yak Festival''' on July 23rd in between [[Karakorum]] and [[Arvayheer]]. The festival celebrates this large mammal that thrives in the cold Mongolian winters with a full day of yak races, a rodeo, and other competitions. There is a market, tourist gers, and a whole temporary village set up in the middle of the steppe. *'''Camel Festival''' in South Gobi province: A local non-governmental organization that aims to protect and preserve the Bactrian camel population organizes "The Thousand Camel Festival" in Bulgan County, South Gobi Province. The festival includes two types of camel races, camel-polo, and some other competitions related to camel breeders' cultural heritage such as training of untamed camels, making ropes from camel wool and loading. There is also a folk concert by school children from the countryside. The festival is held annually March 6–7 for 2 days. ====Public holidays==== While most business still takes place on most holidays, Tsagaan Sar and Naadam tend to last much longer than the official 3 days. Work may stop for weeks in the countryside for Tsagaan Sar. Also, election days are always public holidays and dry days. Alcohol is not sold on election days or the 1st of each month nationwide. * New Years – January 1 * Tsagaan Sar – January/February (3 days, depends on Lunar New Year) * International Women's Day – March 8 * Soldiers' Day – March 18 (not a day off, just lots of parades) * Mothers' and Children's' Day – June 1 * Naadam Festival – July 11–13 * Genghis Khan's Birthday – November 14 * Independence Day – November 26 (no longer a day off, replaced by Genghis Khan's Birthday) '''Working hours''' are almost always posted in 24 hours. Shops are usually open 10:00 to 21:00 or 22:00, and sometimes closed or shortened hours on Sunday or Monday. Banks usually open 08:00 or 09:00 to 17:00, though often closed for an hour for lunch. However, posted times are not always reliable, especially in the countryside. Expect shops to open at maybe 10:15 or 10:30 more often than not. Restaurants typically close around 22:00, while bars stay open until midnight or later. There are a few fast food restaurants in the capital that stay open until 03:00, but no shops open past midnight. ===Climate=== [[File:Khövsgöl Aimag12.JPG|thumb|Steppe in [[Hovsgol]] — if you want to experience desolate landscapes, Mongolia has plenty of them.]] The ideal Mongolia travel season starts in May and peaks in July, during the Naadam holiday, and in August when the weather is most favourable for travelling. This is the best time if you like the culture and can bear the crowds of other tourists. It is not a good time to get away from your busy lifestyle because of the traffic, busy schedules, waiting in lines, etc. September is also a very good time to visit, and October is not too late to travel to Mongolia. It is still warm during the days but a bit chilly during the nights. In the autumn, Mongolia is not very crowded, and this is time for late-comers and last-minute, unplanned trips. You will get to sightsee, enjoy the culture, and taste mare's milk, a bitter and at first somewhat unpleasant drink, throughout the country. For visitors not afraid of cold or fermented mare's milk, travelling to Mongolia from November till the Lunar New Year remains an option. Winter tourism is a developing area of the Mongolian tourism industry. The most rewarding experience will be visiting the nomads, as this is the time when you will experience their culture first-hand during "Tsagaan Sar" or the traditional (Lunar) New Year celebration. Cultural activities including singing, dancing, wrestling, and winter horse racing are available to tourists. Mongolia is known to have 250-260 sunny days throughout the year, so you will need good [[Sunburn and sun protection|UV protection]]. During winter, protect your eyes, and during summer, protect your skin. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.mongolia.travel/ Mongolia Travel] website ==Talk== {{see also|Mongolian phrasebook|Russian phrasebook}} The official language of Mongolia is '''[[Mongolian phrasebook|Mongolian]]'''. Mongolian in Mongolia is written using the '''Cyrillic alphabet''', which was introduced around the 1940s. Mongolian Cyrillic uses all the letters used in the [[Russian]] alphabet and has two extra letters: '''Ө''' and '''Ү'''. Very few people know how to read and write Mongolian using the '''traditional Mongolian script''' (written from top to bottom, and still widely used by ethnic Mongols in China), although since the 1990s, it has been gradually regaining popularity. Mongolian belongs to the Mongolic family of languages, which also includes some minority languages of Russia such as Buryat and Kalmyk, and is not known to be related to any other language family. That being said, Mongolian shares a decent amount of words and grammar structures with the Turkic languages (Turkish, Uzbek, Kazakh, etc.) due to historical proximity, so speakers of a Turkic language will have a somewhat easier time navigating Mongolian. Loanwords from languages such as Sanskrit, [[Russian]], English, and [[Persian]] are common and are used in everyday conversations. Mongolian is widely regarded as a very difficult language for an English-speaker to learn. It is an agglutinative language that makes extensive use of suffixing, makes use of nine grammatical cases, and has a number of pronunciation rules and differences. Don't let this intimidate you, though; Mongolians will appreciate your efforts to speak their language, even if your knowledge of it is rudimentary. If you speak Japanese, Korean, Manchu or a Turkic language, some aspects of Mongolian grammar will be familiar to you. '''[[Kazakh phrasebook|Kazakh]]''' is spoken in the westernmost province of the country and by the small but growing population of ethnic Kazakhs living in Ulaanbaatar. Due to Mongolia's longstanding alliance with the [[Soviet Union]] (and [[Russia]] since the fall of the Soviet Union), '''[[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]''' is spoken by many older Mongolians, although proficiency drops drastically outside Ulaanbaatar. '''English''' is the most popular foreign language among younger Mongolians, and is widely taught in schools. Outside the capital, little of it is spoken. ==Get in== Historically, Mongolia had a reputation for being a very difficult country to visit. Until the mid-1990s, you had to solicit an invitation letter from someone living in Mongolia to visit Mongolia. Lately, the visa rules have been relaxed and most people can enter the country without a visa. The Mongolian government declared the 2023-2024 tourist season the "Year of Mongolia", relaxing visa requirements for many countries, including all major Western nations. Whether this will become a permanent change is yet to be seen. ===Entry requirements=== [[File:New visa policy of Mongolia 2023.png|thumb|375px|Visa policy of Mongolia {{legend|#ed1c24|Mongolia}} {{legend|#22b14c|Visa-free (90 days)}} {{legend|#79d343|Visa-free (30 days)}} {{legend|#b5e61d|Visa-free (21 days)}} {{legend|#ffb583|Visa-free (14 days)}} {{legend|#ffd000|Visa on arrival (30 days)}} {{legend|#a1d4b0|eVisa (30 days)}} {{legend|#ababab|Visa required in advance}}]] Citizens of [https://en.consul.mn/visa/c/83 the following countries/territories]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} can enter Mongolia '''visa-free''': *'''For up to 90 days:''' [[Argentina]], [[Belarus]], [[Brazil]], [[Chile]], [[Ecuador]], [[Kazakhstan]], [[Kyrgyzstan]], [[Macau]], [[Peru]], [[Serbia]], [[South Korea]], [[Ukraine]] (with an "official invitation") and [[United States]] *'''For up to 30 days:''' Citizens of [[Canada]], [[Germany]], [[Israel]], [[Japan]], [[Laos]], [[Malaysia]], [[Russia]], [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], [[Turkey]], [[Uruguay]], and [[Uzbekistan]], as well as the following for tourism until the end of 2025: [[European Union]] member states, [[Australia]], [[Liechtenstein]], [[Monaco]], [[New Zealand]], [[Norway]], [[Switzerland]], and [[United Kingdom]] *'''For up to 21 days:''' [[Philippines]] *'''For up to 14 days:''' [[Hong Kong]] Everyone else, however, must apply for a visa. Obtaining a visa — by default, the Mongolian authorities issue '''thirty-day visas''' to all tourists — is relatively straightforward and effortless. ==== Applying for a Mongolian visa ==== Although requirements vary from diplomatic post to diplomatic post, you are normally asked to submit the following to obtain a Mongolian visa: * A visa application form * A passport-sized photo * A passport with a validity of more than six months * A copy of your travel itinerary * A copy of your hotel reservation * A copy of your bank statement * A letter of invitation (if you intend to stay longer than 30 days in Mongolia) * A letter of approval from the government (only required if you plan to study, work, or live in Mongolia) Also, it is possible to acquire an expedited visa in a matter of hours at the Mongolian consulate in Erlian, though there is a steep US$50 fee for this service. A similar service is available in the Mongolian consulate in the Russian city of [[Irkutsk]]. The [http://www.embassyofmongolia.co.uk/ Embassy of Mongolia in the UK website] is useful for updates, with the [http://embassyofmongolia.co.uk/?p=186&lang=en visa page]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offering information on visa applications at the embassy. [http://beijing.mfa.gov.mn/?lang=en The Embassy of Mongolia in China website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} hosts the form you will need to apply for your Mongolian visa in China, although the consulate does have them. To stay more than 30 days, you have to register at the Mongolia Immigration. ===By plane=== [[image:MIAT Boeing 737-800 at ULN.jpg|thumb|MIAT plane in Ulaanbaatar]] Thanks to a booming mining sector, '''Chinggis Khaan International Airport''' ({{IATA|UBN}}) in [[Ulaanbaatar]] is now connected to some major airport hubs in eastern Asia and Istanbul and Frankfurt. Flag carrier [http://www.miat.com/ MIAT Mongolian Airlines]{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operates daily flights (during some peak season - twice a day) from [[Beijing]] and [[Seoul]], twice a week flights from [[Hong Kong]], [[Moscow]] and [[Tokyo]] (during some peak season - from Narita). During peak summer season it increases flight frequencies and operates flights from [[Busan]] and [[Osaka]]. There are branch offices in Berlin, Moscow, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo and Beijing. Mongolia-based [http://www.hunnuair.com/ Hunnu Air] flies 3 times a week from [[Bangkok]] and 5 flights a week from Hong Kong. There are almost daily flights from Seoul on Korean Air as well as other flights through Beijing, and 3 flights a week to [[Istanbul]]. It is also possible to fly to Ulaanbaatar through Tokyo's Narita Airport. ===By train=== [[image:Trans Mongolian Train 01.jpg|thumb|Trans-Mongolian train]] {{main|Trans-Siberian Railway}} The '''Trans-Mongolian Line''' of the legendary [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] links [[Ulaanbaatar]] with [[Moscow]], [[Russia]] and [[Beijing]], [[China]]. The Mongolian line branches from the main Trans-Siberian at [[Ulan-Ude]], so you'll need to break your journey there if coming from points east like [[Vladivostok]]. There is a small water boiler at the end of each train car which dispenses free hot water, so it's a good idea to stock up on instant noodles and tea for the trip. Also, don't expect to encounter any English-speaking staff on the train or in the stations. ====From Russia==== The Trans-Siberian train crosses the Russia/Mongolia border at the town of [[Naushki]], Russia. Trains start from [[Moscow]] or [[Irkutsk]] going to either Ulaanbaatar or Beijing, with several stops on both sides of the border. Between Irkutsk and the border are [[Ulan-Ude]], Naushki, Dozornoe, and Khoit. Between the Russian border and Ulaanbaatar are [[Sühbaatar]], [[Darkhan (city)|Darkhan]], and Zuunkharaa, with possible stops in [[Erdenet]] and Salkhit. ====From China==== [[image:WheelChanging.jpg|thumb|Changing wheels at the Chinese border]] Second class (hard sleeper) costs about US$200 (2011) from [[Beijing]] to [[Ulaanbaatar]], crossing the border at [[Erlian]]/[[Zamiin-Üüd]]. There are two trains a week and the ride takes almost 30 hours, including a mandatory stop of 3-4 hours at Erlian while the train bogies are switched between Russian broad gauge and Chinese standard gauge. You will have to take all your belongings and leave the train for this operation, and will be confined to the waiting area at Erlian station, even if you're inbound to China and have already passed through immigration. You can, however, ask staff for a free ticket that will let you step outside to raid the nearby shops and restaurants for supplies. =====Beijing to the border===== If the [[Beijing]] - [[Ulaanbaatar]] train is sold out, as seems to be common, or you need a more frequent option, you can make your way from Beijing to the border at [[Erlian]] by '''local train''' as described below, and then on to Ulaanbaatar by bus and train. As of March 2011, there are morning flights from Beijing to Erlian out of Capital Airport Terminal 1 costing only ¥160, which is cheaper than the bus. Trains run daily from Beijing to [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]] or [[Hohhot]]. You can change there for a train to the border town of [[Erlian]] near the Mongolian-Chinese border. The K89 leaves Beijing in the morning and arrives at Jining in the evening. Jining has many hotels near the train station and has karaoke bars to keep you entertained while you wait. From Jining to Erlian there is a slow train that leaves in the morning, passes the Great Wall multiple times, and arrives in the early evening. This will take a night longer than getting the sleeper bus as described in "By bus". =====Crossing the border===== Be wary of scams at the border where people in uniform will attempt to sell you "required travel insurance." There is no such thing and you can safely ignore them. You should then cross the border from [[Erlian]] in China to [[Zamiin-Uud]] in Mongolia as described in [[Erlian#To and from Mongolia|Erlian to and from Mongolia]]. Once you have crossed the border, you will need to get from Zamiin-Uud to Ulaanbaatar as described in [[Zamiin-Uud#Get in|Zamiin-Uud get in]]. ===By car=== Many adventurous people drive to Mongolia, usually starting somewhere in Europe. [http://www.theadventurists.com/the-adventures/mongol-rally The Mongol Rally] and [http://mongolia.charityrallies.org/ Mongol Charity Rally]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} sponsor many of them. Driving to Mongolia can be extremely challenging in many respects. Not only are there virtually no roads in the western half of Mongolia, but vehicle registration, import fees and paperwork, visas and everything have to be ready for every country along the way. For those who still wish to make the journey by car, there are 4 land border crossings with Russia and 3 with China. Though it is much more expensive and difficult to drive through, into, or out of China in your own car. :*See '''[[Driving in China]]''' for issues for driving to Mongolia from China. ====From Russia==== The main border is in Altanbulag-Kyakhta ([[Sühbaatar]]), nearest to the capital, is open 24 hours a day. In the far west is the Tsagaannuur-Tashanta crossing in [[Bayan-Olgii]], is open Monday to Saturday 09:00-18:00 and is the most popular with adventure drivers. Also in the west is Borshoo-Khandgait crossing between [[Uvs]] and [[Tuva| Tuva Republic]], is open Monday to Friday 09:00-18:00. In the east, Ereentsav-Solovyovsk crossing near [[Choibalsan]] is open daily 09:00-18:00. ===By bus=== There is a paved road connecting Ulaanbaatar to the Chinese border, and one between UB and Russia. ====From Russia==== *Those interested in saving money can book one-way elektrichka (regional train) tickets from Irkutsk or Ulan Ude to Naushki. In Naushki, one can spend the night in the train resting rooms (komnati otdikha) for US$0.50 per hour. From there, it is possible to take a marshrutka to the land border crossing town of [[Kyakhta]], Russia. Walking across the border is prohibited, but travellers have no problems arranging for Mongolia-bound cars to take them across the border, for either a small fee or free. Upon crossing into Mongolia it is relatively easy to hitchhike, taxi, or bus to [[Sühbaatar]] or UB, as all southbound traffic is headed towards those cities. *From the west, from Russia, it is possible to cross at the land border in Tsagaannuur, Bayan-Olgii. There are daily petrol and wheat-carrying Russian Kamaz trucks headed to Olgii and it is possible to hitchhike to Tsagaannuur or even [[Olgii]]. Regular buses and marshrutkas also operate from the border, though service is unpredictable due to the lack of a schedule. There is also a bus every 10 days between either [[Astana]] or [[Almaty]], [[Kazakhstan]] and Olgii. ====From China==== * Liuliqiao long-distance bus station (六里桥客运主枢纽 or lìu lǐ qiáo kè yùn zhǔ shū nǐu), phone +86 10 8383–1716, address: A1, Liuliqiao Nan Li, Fengtai District. Departure at 16:30. These are supposed to run daily, but may not. You can phone at 10:00 on the morning of departure to see if the bus is running and to reserve a place. * Muxiyuan long-distance bus station (木樨园才华长途汽车站), phone +86 10 6726–7149, location: go to Liujiayao Metro Station and get a cab. Departs at 17:00. * Lizeqiao long-distance bus station (丽泽桥长途汽车站), phone (丽泽桥长途汽车站) Address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东 +86 10 6340–3408, address 中国, 北京市丰台区北京市丰台区西三环丽泽桥东. Location is difficult to get to. Departs at 17:00. From [[Hohhot]] by bus costs 88 Chinese yuan and takes 6-7 hr. There are several daily buses. Once in Erlian, follow the '''Crossing the border''' and '''From the border to Ulaanbaatar''' steps above. Should you be travelling at a busy time (e.g., around Naadam on the 11th and 12th July) and want to be sure of getting tickets for the last leg of the trip in Mongolia, you could take one of the packages from the guesthouses in Beijing. These cost around 570 yuan (July 2009) and include a taxi to the coach station in Beijing, Beijing to [[Erlian]] by sleeper coach, a bed in the hotel in the bus station for a few hours, a bus from Erlian to [[Zamiin-Üüd]] across the border, then soft sleeper overnight from Zamiin-Üüd to [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Purchased separately, the tickets cost about 360 yuan. The Saga guesthouse in Beijing sells these, and although they insist till they're blue in the face that the train is a hard sleeper, it's actually a soft sleeper! ===By bicycle=== At Zamiin-Uud you have to put your bicycle in a car. You are not allowed to cycle through the 3-km-wide border area. Prepare to bargain. They will start at US$100 and more. You should be able to get them down to US$20 or less. If you are lucky and get up early, you might catch a truck. They will take you for free. Usually you have better chances with Mongol drivers, if you want to cross into Mongolia. At Altanbulag you also have to put the bicycle in a car, but prices are reasonable and usually fixed. Enjoy watching your driver smuggle goods in or out of Mongolia. ===By thumb or foot=== The road passes through the border town of [[Zamiin-Üüd]] and continues to Ulaanbaatar. Hitchhiking in Mongolia is not easy and a little bit of money for the driver is expected. There is an average of one car every hour heading into the desert. Rules at the border require that you ride a bus or car across the border, not walk across. However, they do not care how you get there or where you go afterwards. ==Get around== If you plan to travel around the countryside without a guide, take a [[GPS]] and some maps. The "Mongolia Road Atlas" is available in many book shops, it has over 60 pages and covers the whole country: there is a Latin-character version and Cyrillic-character version, in the countryside most people won't understand the Latin version. More detailed maps are available at the Mongolian Government Map Store. These maps are 1:500,000. Also, some other special-purpose maps and a good map of downtown Ulaanbaatar. The map store is on Ih Toiruu St. Go west from the State Department Store on the main street, called Peace, Peace and Friendship, or Ekhtavan Ave., two blocks to the large intersection with traffic lights, turn right (north) and the map store is about halfway along the block. There is an Elba electronic appliance store set back from the street, a yellow and blue building, the next building is a 4-story, Russian-style office building, the map store entrance is on the west side, toward the south end of the building. It lines up with the north wall of the Elba building. Whichever the method of long-distance travel, keep in mind that everything in Mongolia has a tendency to break down. Don't be shocked if part of the suspension breaks and the driver jerry-rigs a carved wooden block in the place of a mount. For more serious breakdowns, it can easily take an entire day or longer for somebody to come along and help, so leave plenty of slack in itineraries. Finally, Mongolians are rather notorious for being late. A bus that is scheduled to leave at 08:00 will probably not be out of the city until almost 11:00. The entirety of the country is public property, and - especially in the winter - drivers will simply peel off the paved roads and chart their own paths to get to a certain destination. Often, many of the destinations are not near any permanent roads, requiring this off-roading to get to them. If driving off-road, take extra care to ensure that you have the proper supplies and knowledge to survive in the event your vehicle breaks down or gets stuck. It is also highly recommended to have a guide who knows the area and/or a strong knowledge of Mongolian with which you can converse with local nomads to inquire where exactly your destination is and how to get to it. ===By plane=== [[image:AeroMongoliaFokker50.jpg|thumb|An AeroMongolia plane]] The easiest way to travel long distance is via one of the domestic airlines: AeroMongolia or Hunnu Air. Almost all flights are between Ulaanbaatar and the Aimag centers. Except for mines in the south Govi and [[Choibalsan]], which use Boeing 737s, most flights use turboprop regional planes. AeroMongolia uses a two-tier price structure, charging foreigners significantly more than locals, while Hunnu has only one price. Other than price, there is little difference between the airlines. Air travel agents, guest houses and hotels can help you to obtain domestic air tickets in Mongolia. *{{listing | name=AeroMongolia | url=http://aeromongolia.mn/ | email=reservation@aeromongolia.mn | address= | lat= | long= | directions=1st floor, Monnis tower, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 11 330373 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-18:00; Sa 10:00-18:00 | price= | content= It is generally cheaper, but uses older planes and charges foreigners double the local rate. }} *{{listing | name=Hunnu Air | url=http://hunnuair.com/ | email=info@hunnuair.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= Chinggis avenue 10-1, Sukhbaatar district, Ulaanbaatar | phone=+976 7000 1111 (Ulaanbaatar) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Formerly Mongolian Airlines. }} ===By train=== There is only one railway company in Mongolia, owned by the Russian and Mongolian governments, "Mongolian Railway". It is probably the best way to experience something of the communist time, even if it has evolved a bit since then. Ulaanbaatar railway agents more often consider the passenger as a potential rulebreaker than as a client. The railway network is poor, consisting mainly of the Irkutsk-Ulaanbaatar-Beijing Trans-Mongolian way with a few extensions. Trains are extremely slow. They usually leave on time, and arrive on time or less than 20 minutes late. Intercity bus routes on the roughly parallel paved roads will get you there much faster. The local trains stop at many small stations in the countryside. For example, there is the small town of Batsumber, located about 34 km north of Ulaanbaatar (as the crow flies), longer on the train. Take your camping gear and hike to the mountains about 10 km east of the town. There are two streams flowing west out of the mountains, hike and camp along the streams. There is a small restaurant, and food shops in the town. ====Train tickets==== It's possible to pay for train tickets by credit card. For online booking of train tickets, go to the [https://eticket.ubtz.mn/ official website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (an English version is available, but not all the information is translated). The website is not the most user-friendly, but fortunately [http://wandersimply.com/how-to-buy-mongolian-train-tickets-online/ Wander Simply] has a good write-up on how to navigate the site and buy tickets. Alternatively, contact the company [http://www.traintomongolia.com Train to Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} to buy tickets at a commission. You pay an extra fee if you book in advance, and also an extra fee if you buy it in the train, which is the only possibility left if there are less than 10 minutes left before the train departure. Your passport is required to buy a ticket, but you can buy several people's tickets with one passport. There are 3 classes: "coupé", "sleeping", and "public" (translated into English by "economic" by the company). "Coupé" is the only one with doors. In "public" it's possible to have to spend the night sitting and even with little space on crowded days. The tickets are numbered, but, when the seats are exhausted, the company overbooks public seats with tickets numbered "0", at the same price. The "public" seats tickets are much cheaper (and much slower) than the coach, minivan and taxi competitors. In a coupé at night, you'll be charged for compulsory additional bed sheets inside the train. ====Inside a train==== You will be proposed drinks and Mongolian food inside the train, both by official sellers of the company and, at the big stations with long stops, by private people entering the train for that purpose. There are many conductors. Don't expect them to speak anything other than Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. Theft is rare on Mongolian trains, but keeping an eye on your belongings is generally a good idea. There are police on every train. On a long trip, your ticket will be checked repeatedly, and you'll be awakened throughout the night for that. However, nobody will wake you if you have to get off during the trip, but if you get off at the terminus, you'll be awakened, even more than one hour before arrival, depending on the agent. The '''train toilets''' close 30 minutes before the terminus, and sometimes even before that. ===By bus=== [[File:Juulchin Tourism Corp 12.JPG|thumb|Tourist bus in the [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]]]] Travelling by local bus is also an option, though these buses tend to only connect the provincial capital with UB, and it is quite difficult to find any public transportation linking one provincial capital with another. Lately the bus situation has improved. Most cities and towns are referred to in two ways, their name or the name of the Aimag (province) or Soum (county), e.g. Dornod or Dornod Aimag or Choibalsan (the actual city name). Most buses have their destination on a card in the front window. If you have either name written down in Mongolian Cyrillic, show it to the drivers or helpers and they will get you on the right bus. There are two types of buses, microvans and large buses (some large buses are old Russian types and some are modern western types), depending on the road. The large buses run on schedule, but the micro-buses are much more lax. In Ulaanbaatar, there are two bus stations, one on the west near the Dragon Shopping Center and one on the East near the Botanical Gardens. Both stations are on Peace Avenue on opposite sides of the city. Multiple buses run between them. Get local to write directions. For the large buses buy your tickets the day before. In the Aimag centres, there will be service to Ulaanbaatar and to local soums (small county seats) and usually the next Aimag center. However, all locations may not be available at one location. Ask for help from the locals. For example, in Ondorkhaan, the capital of Khentii Province, there is a bus service between Ondorkhaan and UB from a central bus station, however the through buses going to/from UB to Dornod and Sukhbaatar Aimags (Choybalsan and Baruun-Urt) will stop at a gas station on the north side of the city. ====Bus tickets==== Tickets are sold in the station, not in the coach. Don't expect any cashier, driver or conductor to speak anything but Mongolian and, possibly, Russian. It's not possible to pay by credit card. Your passport is required to buy a ticket. If you have a luggage exceeding the standard (written in your ticket) in weight or size, you'll be asked for an extra fee by the conductor. You can negotiate this one. ====Inside a bus==== On some routes, the driver and the conductor illegally add extra passengers and pocket the cash. They might even try to make 3 people sit on 2 seats, for instance: you can protest in such a case. Your ticket gives you the right to a full seat and this is what you get in most coaches. The coach will usually stop for a rather quick lunch or dinner at a local snackshop or canteen. ===By minivan=== Public countryside taxis and minivans, often called purgon or mekr, offer more destinations than coaches and many more than train, especially between provinces. They are more dangerous than coaches and trains, and always overloaded. Most drivers don't respect the traffic rules. Countryside taxis and minivans leave when full. They always say they will go "now" ("odo") despite often departing hours later. See how many people are already sitting inside the vehicle to have an idea of how long you'll wait. Drivers also usually promise to pick up additional passengers and cargo before leaving town. ===By chartered jeep=== [[image:Mongol cable ferry.jpg|thumb|River ferry in Hovsgol]] It is also possible to charter a Jeep and driver for private use. Prices are typically negotiated by the kilometre. While far more expensive than sharing a ride with the locals, this means of transport is considerably more convenient and allows you to visit more remote sites. It can also be quite convenient to hire a guide to use during the length of your stay. Doing so can allow you to travel without worrying about taxi drivers overcharging by up to 10x for being a foreigner. ===By car=== One of the most convenient ways to get around is by car. This isn't to say that it's completely safe, however. Road accidents are very common in Mongolia, largely because of reckless driving habits. Drivers do not obey traffic rules and speeding is common. Many cars are in poor condition and not all of them are fitted with seat belts. The road network is narrow and generally in poor condition. Avoid driving at night, as most roads are unlit and may have obstacles and potholes. ===By taxi=== In the cities, taxis should charge about 1500&nbsp;₮ per km. The drivers will set their trip meter and charge accordingly. ===By horse=== For local travel, horse-back is a good option. Mongolians ride on wooden saddles, so if you value your buttocks it's probably a good idea to pick up a leather, Russian saddle in UB. ===By foot=== Walking is another great alternative. Since camping is possible anywhere, resting is never a problem. Wherever there is water, there are nomads, and if you stick to the major dirt roads you will encounter plenty of guanz, which can provide huge cheap meals to keep you going. Adopting the Mongolian style of sleeping outdoors is also an option: wrap yourself in wool blankets and then cover yourself with a Russian raincoat (essentially a tarpaulin in the form of a trench coat), and simply plop yourself down on the ground. One night sleeping this way gives a whole new appreciation for the wonders of sleeping bags and bivvy sacks/tents. ==See== [[image:Gandan Monastery 10.JPG|thumb|Monk at the Gandan Monastery]] Mongolia is a big country that has been beyond the reach of travellers and the normal trappings of civilization until the 21st century. Even today it can be difficult to travel between the few places that 'exist'. There is little noteworthy architecture in the country. Except for the short-lived capital of the Mongol Empire at '''[[Karakorum]] (Kharkhorin)''', the descendants of Genghis Khan left little evidence of their power inside their native homeland. Genghis Khan, who leveled cities from the Yellow Sea to the Caspian, was said to have only built one permanent building during his life, a warehouse to store his stupendous amount of loot. ====Archaeology==== [[File:BuddhaErdeneZuuMonasteryMongolia.JPG|thumb|Buddha at Erdene Zuu]] Though this structure no longer exists, the capital built by his son, Ögedei, does, as do countless artifacts in the National Museum in [[Ulaanbaatar]], and thousands of stone monuments and drawings spread throughout the country, some dating back thousands of years. After the gradual disintegration of the Mongol Empire, many Tibetan Buddhist monasteries were built, providing the most visible signs of Mongolia's history. Today only a few still stand after Stalinist religious purges. Of particular note is the '''[[Northern Mongolia|Amarbaysgalant Monastery]]''' in Selenge, the '''Erdene Zuu Monastery''' in Kharkhorin, and '''Gandan Monastery''' in Ulaanbaatar, all active religious sites with large numbers of resident lamas. During the communist era, the Soviets helped establish large modern cities and modern industries, which aren't very pretty, but are of some interest, particularly the biggest open-pit copper mine in Asia at [[Erdenet]]. For a country that prides itself on its nomadic heritage, there are a surprising amount of ruins of stone structures (and even cities) scattered about Mongolia. With the exception of Kharkhorin, practically none of these are anywhere near a paved road, but their isolation makes their grandeur even more impressive. People interested in the ethnogenesis of the Turkic peoples will not want to miss the '''Orkhon Inscriptions''' in the Orkhon Valley (about a 40 minute drive north of Kharkhorin). These two massive stone stelae contain the oldest written Turkic language, and serve as a sort of Rosetta Stone for the reconstruction of both Old Turkic and Proto-Turkic. The Turkish government has funded a nice museum on the site and a paved road from the museum to Kharkhorin, making the inscriptions easily accessible to travellers. =====Monasteries===== Before the religious purges, Mongolia had around 750 monasteries and was a theocracy. Many were destroyed, while some were turned into museums by the communists to display Mongolian art or the opulence of the former religious leaders. Today the '''Choijin Lama Monastery''' and the '''Bogd Khan Winter Palace''' are preserved as museums for the art of the Lamas and the toys of the former king. Other ancient monasteries are slowly reopening and recovering like the Amarbaysalant in Selenge Province or the Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar. Most monasteries today are small, newly built temples in towns that didn't even exist before the purges. =====Museums===== Besides the monastery museums, Ulaanbaatar hosts several interesting and noteworthy museums to see before going off to the countryside. The best one by far is the '''National Museum of Mongolia''' with large collections of artifacts from the Mongol Empire through the Democratic Revolution of 1990. The '''Chinggis Khaan Museum''' in Ulaanbaatar offers an even larger collection, although it only spans prehistory to the Qing Empire. Several other good art museums and lesser history and nature museums also exist in the city if you will be there for an extended time. Outside of the capital, every provincial center also has a small museum usually built by the communists and mostly not updated since they left. These museums are cheap and do have useful displays on local cultures and history. There are also some '''communist-era sites'''. ====Nature==== One thing that does look much the same as it always has is the unspoiled nature of Mongolia. Due to its very low population density, the lowest in the world, it is possible to travel days with only seeing the occasional nomadic herder interrupting endless rolling steppes, the vast [[Gobi]] desert, or the snow-capped Altai Mountains. Up north, Siberian forests surround the 2nd largest freshwater lake in Asia by volume, Hôvsgôl (or "Hövsgöl") lake, in [[Hövsgöl]] province, which is very beautiful. The '''Flaming Cliffs''' near [[Dalanzadgad]] are stunning just to see, but also contain some of the earliest and most important dinosaur discoveries. ====People==== The most memorable part of any trip to Mongolia, regardless of what drew you here, will certainly be the people. Mongolians are incredibly hospitable to guests. No trip here is complete without having dinner or staying the night with '''nomadic herders'''. Around a third of the population still earns a living as semi-nomadic herders living in gers (yurts) on the open steppe. While their diets are not very diverse, consisting of meat, flour, and dairy, they will seek to serve guests a feast of boiled or fried meat and hot milky tea, with traditional entertainments of music, singing, and maybe dance. There is some variation depending on which tribe or region, with Kazakhs near [[Ölgii]] being the most different with different language, diet, and dress, including the practice of '''eagle hunting'''. While the Tuvans have a beautiful, eerie singing style of throat-singing, and the Tsaatan people live isolated lives herding reindeer near Lake Hövsgöl. Then there are the Lama monks who are increasingly common in monasteries and elsewhere, and the '''Shaman priests''', who practice the ancient animist religions of worshiping nature and the earth, and are widely respected in Mongolia. ==Do== [[image:Mongolian honor guard procession.jpg|thumb|Mongolian honor guard]] Experiencing the culture and having a meal or spending the night with a nomadic family are authentic Mongolian experiences. Whether you go just outside of the capital or fly to the far corners of the country, this is the most memorable part of any trip. There are some variations on the experience, depending on the tribal group. The '''[[Trans-Siberian Railway]]''' passes through the country. Also follow the path of [[On the trail of Marco Polo|Marco Polo]] across Europe and Asia into Mongolia to visit the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in [[Karakorum]]. Mongolia is the least densely populated country in the world and has very little development of any kind outside of the capital and a few small towns. There often aren't even roads connecting these towns. This pristine setting means that Mongolia has wide open spaces for experiencing the outdoors for those who want adventure. Traveling across this vast country is often an adventure in itself with tourists and adventurers alike going by car, motorcycle, bike, horse, camel, or foot. Most often this means camping on the shore of a river or with a nomadic family or in small roadside hotels in provincial towns. Along the way or on one of the many wild rivers and nature preserves, there is great fishing, particularly fly-fishing during the summer. Climbing the mountains in the west is popular as well as photographing the wildlife, flora, or the multitude of birds living or migrating through Mongolia. * Canoe down some of Mongolia's major rivers. * Listen to traditional Mongolian '''throat singing'''. * Visit reindeer herders, such as the Tsaatan Community, which is west of Khovsgol lake. Several tour companies sell tours to visit the reindeer herders living in high alpine mountains. To get there, ride horses from Tsagaannuur or Rinchinlhumbe. You need to get a border permit in UB or Murun before starting the tour. Most licensed tour companies can get the border permit if you provide your travel details in advance. Horse-trekking can be hard and long. But it's worth traveling there. * Local Bonda Lake Camp in Khatgal village near Lake Khovsgol offers fishing, hiking, winter tours, nomad visits, horseback riding, visiting reindeer herders and the Darhad valley. Horse riding, you can discover Lake Khovsgol and its beautiful waters, meet Tsataan (nomadic reindeer herders) living in gers in the north of Khovsgol area. This region is incredibly scenic, perched at 1645 m altitude in green mountains, covered with thick pine forests and lush meadows with grazing yaks and horses, and rich with wildlife: the lake has 9 species of fish and its surroundings are full of sheep, goats, elk and more than 430 species of birds. There are 5 Mongolian tribes nearby: Khalh, Darhad, Buriad, Hotgoid, and Urianhai. The camp has a hot shower, sauna, internet and a restaurant with Mongolian and European meals. *{{do | name=Mountain Climbing | alt= | url= | email= | address=All over Mongolia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Best to climb the highest peaks in July and August | price= | content=While much of the country is rolling steppe, there are several mountain ranges. The Altai Mountains in the west have several peaks of over {{ft|13,000}} up to {{ft|14,201}} in [[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]. The highest mountains have snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and require special equipment and experienced guides. Smaller mountains throughout the country can be hiked in an afternoon, including many surrounding the capital of Ulaanbaatar. }} ===Winter activities=== *{{listing | type=do | name=Join Kazakh eagle hunters on a hunt | alt= | url= | email= | address=In [[Western Mongolia]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=During the cold winter months, the Kazakhs in western Mongolia use eagles to hunt for foxes and hares, which are easier to see against the snow. Freezing temperatures and long days on Mongolian or Kazakh horses discourage most people from attempting this adventure. For those who do, seeing an eagle released from a man's forearm swoop down and kill a fox a mile away is an unforgettable experience. }} *Skiing: There is one ski resort outside of Ulaanbaatar with a ski lift, equipment rentals, instructors, and all the other features of a ski resort. The lift may be slow, and the runs a bit hard, but it does provide good entertainment for those visiting UB during the long, cold winter months. For more adventurous types, western Mongolia's large mountain ranges provide great '''back-country skiing'''. The spring months of April and May get the most snow and make the best skiing. Either join a tour or lug all of your own equipment. There aren't any ski shops in the nearby villages. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mongolian tögrög | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;₮ | date=July 2025 | USD=3,600 | EUR=4,200 | GBP=4,900 | CNY=500 | RUB=4,600 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mnt-mongolian-tughrik/ XE.com] }} The Mongolian currency is the '''tögrög''' (also spelled "tugrik", "tugrug" etc.; Mongol: төгрөг), denoted by the sign "'''₮'''" (ISO international currency code: '''MNT'''). You may also see the notations "tg" and "T". Banknote denominations in circulation are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 20,000&nbsp;₮. It is virtually impossible to exchange tögrög outside the country, so don't exchange too much. US dollars are widely accepted in the tourist industry, especially for larger payments (hotels, guides, etc.), but are not usable in the countryside. ===Tipping=== In Mongolia tipping is rarely expected except in tourism-related services like tour guides. Waiters, taxis, and hotel attendants do not expect tips. Sometimes taxis will attempt to overcharge you by refusing to give change back, but this has nothing to do with gratuity. Some nicer restaurants and hotels in the capital do often add fees to the bill for service, especially for larger groups. ===Shopping=== *Mongolian cashmere is known as the best in the world, so consider buying garments and blankets from one of the many stores selling cashmere products. *Mongolia is famous for its copper mines Erdenet and Oyu Tolgoi. A copper bookmark might make an ideal souvenir and you can easily find this US$1 metal souvenir in Ulaanbaatar souvenir shops. *'''Kazakh embroideries''' made in [[Ölgii]] using traditional Kazakh designs are sold in many gift shops in Ulaanbaatar. *'''Paintings''' by local artists are excellent buys in Mongolia. *You can find '''felt poker-work''' in [[Erdenet]]. *It is illegal to take '''antiques''' out of the country without a special permit. *The huge open-air market, '''Narantuul''' ("The Black Market") in Ulaanbaatar offers the lowest prices on just about anything you could want. Beware of the many pickpockets and even attackers there. This can be a great place to get a good pair of ''riding boots''. You can opt for a variety of Mongolian styles, from fancy to the more practical, or even get a good set of Russian-style boots. *Mongolia is justly famous for its [[carpets]]. [[Erdenet]] is home to Mongolia's largest carpet factory, also making and selling slippers made of carpet, though its carpets are made by machine, not traditional methods. For traditional carpets, visit a local market, including the famous Black Market in [[Ulaanbaatar]]. ===Grocery shopping=== ''Prices as of April 2018:'' * Bread (1 loaf) - 1,600 ₮ * Bottled water (0.5 liter) - 600 ₮ * Beef (1kg) - 9,500 ₮ * Yogurt (0.45kg) - 1,600 ₮ * Beer (0.5 liter) - 2,000 ₮ to 5,000 ₮ * Milk (1 liter) - 2,350 ₮ * Potato (1kg) - 1,050 ₮ * Onion (1kg) - 1,550 ₮ * Coffee (0.8kg) - 12,000 ₮ * Banana (1kg) - 4,500 ₮ * Grape (1kg) - 11,000 ₮ * Apple juice (2 liters) - 5,000 ₮ * Eggs (10) - 4,450 ₮ ==Eat== {{infobox|Un-Mongolian barbecue|Boiled mutton? Aren't Mongolians famous for barbecue? Sadly, no: "Mongolian BBQ" was invented in Taiwan in the 1970s. Due to tourist demand, there is one Mongolian BBQ place in Ulaanbaatar now, but it's run by an American!}} [[File:Dishes_of_Mongolian_cuisine.jpg|thumb|The Mongolian trifecta: ''khuushuur'' fried dumplings on the left, ''buuz'' steamed dumplings on the right, and pieces of boiled mutton on top]] Anywhere you find people in Mongolia, you will also smell the scent of '''boiled mutton''', the principal dish of Mongolia. A typical herder in the countryside will eat little else, flavored only with a little salt. Vegetables and spices are very limited, and even flour may be in short supply, since the climate is poorly suited to agriculture. Restaurants, canteens and tea shops in Mongolia also have a mutton-centric menu, revolving around three dishes: * ''buuz'' (бууз) &mdash; Steamed dumplings stuffed with meat, often called the national dish of Mongolia. Derived from the Chinese ''baozi''. A set of 6 usually costs 1,200-2,000&nbsp;₮. * ''khuushuur'' (хуушууp) &mdash; Deep-fried stuffed flatbread with meat and onion, originally a festive dish but now ubiquitous. 3 or 4 will fill you up. * ''tsuivan'' (цуйван) &mdash; Fried noodles with meat and a few token vegetables, often served with ketchup on the side. Around 2,000-4,000&nbsp;₮ a serve. Horse, yak and beef are also eaten, and dairy products like ''byaslag'' (бяслаг), a mild, paneer-like fresh cheese, and ''öröm'' (өрөм), clotted cream, are also common. ''Aaruul'' (ааруул) dried curds are also a common snack: these are typically rock hard and have to be eaten by ''slowly'' dissolving them in your mouth, which eventually turns them into lumps of cheesy putty. [[File:Boodog made from a marmot.JPG|thumb|Preparing a marmot as ''boodog'']] For special occasions, ''boodog'' (боодог) or goat/marmot barbecue, is particularly worth experiencing. For about 15,000-20,000&nbsp;₮, a nomad will head out with his gun, shoot a marmot or a goat, and then cook it for you without a pot: the meat, vegetables, water and stones are cooked inside the skin of the animal. They skin it very carefully, and then tie off the holes at the legs and back side, put the food and hot stones inside, tie off the throat, and let it cook for about 30 minutes. Though rare, with only 692 cases of marmot plague recorded between 1928 to 2018, the Tarbagan marmot is known to carry the bubonic plague, but fatal cases tend to be those that partake in the consumption of raw marmot organs that are sometimes eatern separately from the ''boodog.'' Along the same lines is ''khorkhog'' (xopxoг), made of mutton, which is prepared like so: build a fire; toss stones into fire until red hot; place water, hot stones, onions, potatoes, carrots, and, finally, mutton chops, into a large vacuum-sealed kettle; let the kettle simmer over a fire for 30-60 minutes; open kettle carefully, as the top will inevitably explode, sending hot juices flying everywhere; once the kettle is opened, and all injuries have been tended to, eat contents of kettle, including the salty broth. This cooking method makes mutton taste tender and juicy, like slow-roasted turkey. Ask your guide if he or she can arrange one (but only during summer). ===Where to eat=== Ulaanbaatar has a cosmopolitan scene with plenty of international options, ranging from fine dining at the Kempinski to fast-food dumplings at [https://www.khaanbuuz.mn/ Khaan Buuz], the country's answer to McDonalds. The many Korean restaurants in particular are worth exploring. It is also the only place in the country where vegetarians can fairly easily find food, although tour agents can usually arrange vegetarian meals elsewhere with sufficient notice. In the countryside, the only dining option is often the ''guanz'' (гуанз), a roadside ''ger'' tent offering a simple menu, often only ''tsuivan'' noodles and salted milk tea. ==Drink== [[File:Mongolia 105.JPG|thumb|A milk pail in Mongolia]] The most common drink in Mongolia is '''salted milk tea''' (сүүтэй цай ''süütei tsai''), which is essentially a cup of boiled milk and water, sometimes with a couple pieces of tea leaf and/or a pinch of salt thrown in for good measure. A cup of this and a bowl of dried snacks is the first thing served when you visit a ''ger'', and it accompanies food at restaurants as well. The tea can be bulked up into a meal by adding in some toasted millet, rice, meat or bansh. You might want to build up your tolerance by drinking lots of milk in preparation for your stay because they don't drink much else, except perhaps boiled water if you specially request it during a longer stay. Also, most traditional nomadic foods such as dried yogurt and the like require acclimatization to milk as well. Cold drinks don't actually exist in the countryside (unless you intend to drink straight out of a river, generally not recommended). [[File:Homemade airag in Mongolia.jpg|thumb|A glass of homemade ''airag'', prepared in the blue plastic barrel in the background]] The national drink, though, is '''''airag''''' (айраг). Essentially the same as the Central Asian ''kumiss'', this is a summer seasonal drink made from fermented mare's milk, and is certainly an acquired taste. The alcohol content is less than that of beer, but can have noticeable effects. Be careful, if you aren't accustomed to drinking sour milk products, the first time might give you diarrhea as your stomach gets accustomed to it. This should only happen the first time though. Once you've completed the ritual, your digestive system shouldn't complain again. There are numerous ways to describe the taste, from bile-like to a mixture of lemonade and sour cream. The texture can also be offsetting to some people since it can be slightly gritty. It is worth keeping in mind that Airag is milk and a source of nutrients. After a day of riding it can actually be quite refreshing, once acquiring a taste for it. ''Airag'' is "microbrewed" locally, not commercially produced, but in season it's sold at stands including Gandantegchinlen Monastery and at the West Market in Ulaanbaatar. Much stronger than ''airag'' is '''''arkhi''''' (архи), a strong liquor distilled from milk and often called "milk vodka". Like vodka, the taste is quite neutral, and after you have your first shot of the vodka you won't feel anything, but a few minutes later it will get to your head. Most people in Mongolia usually drink this for medical reasons. First you heat up the vodka then put in a little bit of special oil which is also made from milk. Careful don't overheat it, you might get blind. Mongolians call their national vodka ''nermel arkhi'' ("distilled vodka") or ''changa yum'' ("tight stuff"). Many Russian-style vodkas are sold throughout the country. The best are '''Chinggis Khaan vodka''', '''Soyombo''' and '''Golden Chinggis'''. In Ulaanbaatar you can find most Western beers, from Miller to Heineken. They sell Budweiser -- not American Bud but the [[Czech Republic|Czech]] Budweiser. Local beer, such as Chingis, Gem Grand, Borgio or Sengur is fine. ==Sleep== Some '''western-style accommodation''' is available in [[Ulaanbaatar]], but it goes for western prices. There are a few nice guest houses in UB for less than US$10 per night (even as cheap as 3,000&nbsp;₮ if you're willing to share a room), but they are crowded during the tourist season and hard to get into. Out in the countryside, most of the hotels are rundown Soviet-era leftovers. A better option is tourist ''ger'', set up by entrepreneurial locals. Staying at one of these costs about ₮5000 per person per night. They often include breakfast and dinner as well. When staying in one of these guest ger, the usual gift-giving customs can be skipped. Finally, there are also '''ger-camps'''. Set up by tour companies, they do occasionally rent out space to independent travellers. Unfortunately, they tend to be both expensive (US$35 per person per night with 3 meals) and out of the way. To stay at a ger camp, use the online booking portals [https://ihotel.mn/ iHotel] and [http://www.mongoliagercamps.net Mongolian Ger Camps Network]. Except for the cities and larger towns, all land is publicly owned. This means you can '''pitch a tent''' pretty much anywhere. Courtesy dictates that you keep your distance from existing nomad encampments. Common sense dictates that you don't pitch a tent in the middle of or too close to a road. Nowadays, there are more than 300 hotels in Mongolia and these are graded between 1 and 5 stars. Hotels holding 3 stars or more are for tourist service and must obtain permission in order to operate. The Accommodation Grading Committee, consisting of the Ministry, travel industry associations and tourism researchers, rate an accommodation according to Mongolian standards. ==Learn== There are some '''language schools''' in the capital. The two most known to foreigners are Bridge School and Friends School. Both offer group study classes and individual tutors. Also, the [http://www.num.edu.mn/en/ National University of Mongolia]{{Dead link|date=September 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offers courses. It usually takes westerners about 9 to 18 months before they acquire good conversational abilities in Mongolian. Speakers of Korean, Japanese, and Turkic languages, like Turkish and Kazakh, tend to learn more quickly due to the similarities in grammatical structure. A Mongolian language school with a website is [http://mongolianlanguage.mn '''Nomiin Ger''']. ==Work== It can be difficult to find employment as a foreigner in Mongolia. Obtaining a work permit requires being sponsored by a Mongolian company and every company has a strict quota on the number of foreign nationals they may employ. Foreign nationals are not allowed to comprise more than 20% of a Mongolian company's workforce. This is as good as saying that the Mongolian government is reluctant to let foreigner workers compete with Mongolians. There is a huge demand for native English speakers as English teachers. Anyone who is interested in [[teaching English]] will have no trouble getting employment and a work visa through a school or organization. However, the pay is generally lower than in other countries. Though it'll usually be just enough for room and board plus a little extra. Local English-language media hire native speakers as editors, proof-readers and photojournalists. Volunteer work is available teaching English, assisting with charity work and joining archaeological digs. These jobs are easy to find and very rewarding. ==Stay safe== [[File:Sunset in Ulaanbaatar (6216619493).jpg|thumb|Sunset in Ulaanbaatar]] Mongolia is mostly a safe country to visit, but take care in nights and when alcohol is involved, and if venturing out away from shelter with risks of harsh weather. Women should be aware of problems common in conservative regions. [[Aggressive dogs]] may run in packs. Be wary of them since they are not likely to be as tame as domestic dogs elsewhere. Most fenced yards and gers have a guard dog that is usually all bark and no bite, though it is advised to make it aware of you so as to not surprise it, and carry a rock in case it does charge you. Manhole covers — or more precisely, the lack of such covers — is a surprisingly common cause of injuries among foreigners and (especially drunk) tourists. In smaller cities and outlying areas of the capital, there are many missing or poorly placed covers. Avoid stepping on any manhole and pay attention to where you walk. ===Crime and harassment=== Apart from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia is generally a safe place to travel. However, incidents of [[pickpockets|pickpocketing]] and bag slashing have occurred, so always keep your personal belongings in a safe place (money belts are highly recommended), especially in crowded areas or in places where your attention is diverted. Notorious places for theft are the Black Market (bazaar), the railway station and crowded bus stops. Unfortunately, xenophobia and violence towards foreigners is common. Alcoholism is a huge social problem and Mongolia has the highest rate of liver cancer in the world<!--according to www.wcrf.org and most other reputable sources-->. Do not acknowledge or approach any Mongolian man under the influence of alcohol. Many foreigners who go to bars and clubs at night report assault and general aggression. Mongolians are quite open people and tend to be curious and ask many questions just to be friendly. Try to answer diplomatically, and vaguely, especially relating to any perceived negative aspect of Mongolia. Violent crime is also common outside the capital city (Darkhan especially), so caution is required at night. In particular, dark or deserted alleys and streets should be avoided. Generally, if walking past 22:00, avoid people if at all possible. Mongolians can be very friendly, but their emotions and motives can change quite quickly. Someone who may genuinely just want to have a couple drinks with you may suddenly become aggressive regardless of your respect and polite actions. Corruption is a huge problem in Mongolia, and locals are convinced that the police are not to be trusted. There are small bands of Mongolian ultra-nationalist thugs that style themselves as neo-Nazis and have assaulted foreigners including whites, blacks, and particularly, Chinese. They are especially provoked by foreigner interaction with Mongolian women. They are mostly found in the capital, especially in the cheaper bars and nightclubs. Lone or female travelers need to exercise a higher degree of awareness of their surroundings, as getting groped in the chest or behind is not uncommon. Some actions like dancing close to a man will be seen as an open invitation, as Mongolians generally don't dance this way. === Weather conditions === Perhaps the biggest danger in Mongolia is the extreme weather. Owing to its large size, high elevation, proximity to [[Siberia]] in Russia, and its landlocked geography, Mongolian winters are incredibly harsh and temperatures can fall as low as -40° Celsius. That's why [[Ulaanbaatar]] is often dubbed the coldest capital city in the world. When visiting Mongolia in the winter, layer every article of clothing you own and '''do not''' walk around too much in the open. Frostbite is a real risk, and freezing to death is a possibility. If you are unprepared to deal with such weather conditions, visit Mongolia during the summer. === Driving === Driving in Mongolia can be dangerous, especially for those who are not used to driving in developing countries. Roads outside the capital tend to be in poor condition, and incredibly harsh weather makes things all the more difficult. In the capital, motorists can be aggressive and drunk driving is common. Take care when crossing roads or busy intersections. If you have little to no knowledge of Mongolian roads and driving around in isolated areas, it is '''strongly recommended''' that you do not drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]]. Outside the capital, help is incredibly limited and you can get lost if you don't know what you're doing. If you must drive outside [[Ulaanbaatar]], consider informing a trusted local about your plans. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Air pollution in ulaanbaatar.jpg|thumb|Air pollution in Ulaanbaatar]] * Nomads' dogs may have '''rabies'''. As a precaution, consider having a rabies shot before coming. * Marmots should not be eaten at certain times of the year because they can carry '''bubonic plague'''. That said, the disease is carried by the marmot's fleas so the afflicted tend to be fur traders, and marmot is not a mainstream dish even in Mongolia. * Hepatitis and tuberculosis are common throughout Mongolia. * '''[[Tap water]]''' is unsafe to drink. === Pollution === [[Ulaanbaatar]] has polluted air, largely due to pervasive coal-burning for domestic heating. If you suffer from a respiratory disease and plan to visit Mongolia in winter, consult a medical professional for advice. ==Respect== [[File:Jurte in der Mongolei.JPG|thumb|A common sight in the Mongolian countryside. If you have been invited to go inside one, accept it.]] Compared to other countries in Asia, Mongolians are generally straightforward. Expect someone to tell you exactly what they think and feel. Anti-China sentiment is high in Mongolia due to historiographical and cultural disputes, and because China is seen by Mongolians as a colonial oppressor. As such, refrain from wearing anything associated with China, and refrain from talking about China. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia is referred to as "southern Mongolia" by most Mongolians. Many Mongolians consider it to be Mongolian territory under Chinese occupation. Mongols traditionally live on the steppes, breeding horses, just like their ancestor Genghis Khan. Not surprisingly, following Western pleasantries will mostly not have the intended effect in Mongolia. Instead, try to follow local good manners. Always receive items with the '''right hand''', palm facing up. Drink from the right hand with the palm up as well. It is very rude to refuse a gift. If offered a plate of hospitality munchies, take at least a small nibble from something. Never point at anyone with your index finger since it implies disrespect. Whenever you approach a nomadic family, or enter a ger, you will, without knowing, break one or several of the many traditional, religious and superstitious customs. If you do become confused, don't panic, minor indiscretions will be tolerated and forgiven. The following do's and don'ts will help avoid offending anyone. === What to do=== * Say hello (sain bainuu) upon arriving (but repeating it when you see the same person is considered strange) * Take at least a sip, or a nibble, of the delicacies offered. * Pick up everything with an open hand, with your palm facing upwards. * Hold a cup by the bottom, and not by the top rim. * If by accident you tap someone's foot with yours, immediately shake hands with them (failing to do so will be seen as an insult). * Exchange pleasantries and engage in some small talk before asking someone for something. * Discuss one's family and the weather. In nomadic areas, asking about a nomad's animals is customary. * Discuss where you're from and what you're doing in Mongolia/the place you're visiting. * Show respect to elders and figures of authority. === What not to do === * Lean against a support column * Whistle inside a ger * Stand on, or lean over, the threshold * Stamp out a fire, or put water or any rubbish on it (fire is sacred to Mongolians) * Walk in front of an older person; or turn your back to the altar, or religious objects (except when leaving) * Take food from a communal plate with your left hand * Touch other people's hats * Do not have a long conversation in your own language in front of your hosts; make an effort to include your hosts. * Do not reject an invitation to visit a ger; hospitality is a cornerstone in the nomadic parts of Mongolia and outright rejecting an invitation will seriously offend the nomads. * Refuse food and drink offered by your hosts; as is the case in many Asian cultures, it is ''very rude'' to do this in Mongolia and shows no respect to your hosts. * Not finishing the food that has been offered to you; as is the case in many Asian cultures, wasting food is ''frowned upon''. * Urinate in lakes or bodies of water; water is considered sacred and holy in Mongolia. * Speak negatively about Genghis Khan. Most Mongolians revere him, and he is regarded as a national hero and the father of their nation. ==Connect== '''Internet cafés''' are less common than they were, but nicer restaurants provide Wi-Fi in the capital. The postal service is slow and most people have a PO Box if they want to get anything. It is possible to buy phone cards that can be used to call abroad very cheaply from domestic phones, but not all phones can do this. (You can ask for MiCom or MobiCom cards). In the countryside, cell phone carriers cover random villages. Between Mobicom, Unitel, and GMobile, all villages or Soum centers are covered. Internet cafés are plentiful in Aimag centers (provincial capitals) now, with all Aimag post offices having one, plus many smaller cafés. There is Internet in some Soums (villages), but this is rare, slow, and prone to frequent outages. To make local calls in Ulaanbaatar, use a phone of one of the many entrepreneurs with cellular telephones on the street corners. Expect to pay 150-200&nbsp;₮ per minute (June 2009 prices). ==Go next== ===To [[China]]=== From Ulaanbaatar, there are several options: Firstly, the international train. Tickets are sold in the ticket office in the VIP lounge on the second floor of the international ticket office across the street from the train station. The second option is to board the Hohhot international train and transfer at [[Erlian]] or [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)]]. See the travel agency located on the 1st (ground) floor of the international ticket office for details. The third option is to take the daily train to [[Zamiin-Üüd]], Mongolia at the border and take a bus or jeep to China, then go to the bus or train station in [[Erlian]], China. ===To [[Russia]]=== There are buses and trains to [[Ulan Ude]], from where you can explore the [[Lake Baikal]] region or board the [[Trans-Siberian Railway]] in either direction. {{isPartOf|East_Asia}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|47|104|zoom=5}} 388mgzuie5sua3qoma9t90e2z85if5z 0 22870 5091361 5086735 2025-07-11T11:07:32Z WereSpielChequers 35579 typo 5091361 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner|Montreal banner Twilight.jpg|caption=A panoramic view of Montreal from the top of Mount Royal|unesco_cc=yes}} {{printDistricts}} '''Montreal''' ([[French]]: ''Montréal'') is the largest city in the Canadian province of [[Quebec]]. While Quebec City is the political capital, Montreal is the cultural and economic centre, and the main entry point to the province. With 1.8 million residents in the city (2021), and 4 million in the urban area, Montreal is Canada's second largest city. and the largest francophone city in the Americas. Most Francophones are conversant in English to varying degrees of fluency. [[Montreal/Old Montreal|Old Montreal]] has a heritage of colonial times. Though a large city, Montreal gives opportunities for [[outdoor life]], and for watching the legendary Montréal Canadiens ice hockey team. ==Districts== ===Central Montreal=== ====Ville-Marie borough==== Neighbourhoods from west to east: {{Regionlist | regionmap=Montreal WV districts map 2024.svg | regionmaptext=Montreal districts map | regionmapsize=440px | region1name=[[Montreal/Downtown|Downtown]] | region1color=#FC57DA | region1items= | region1description=Skyscrapers, shopping, museums, and the Parc du Mont-Royal. | region2name=[[Montreal/Old Montreal|Old Montreal]] | region2color=#11F5CC | region2items= | region2description=The historic riverfront Old Town and Old Port manages to retain a quaint feel despite being mobbed by hordes of tourists. | region3name=[[Montreal/Quartier Latin-Le Village|Quartier Latin-Le Village]] | region3color=#8783A5 | region3items= | region3description=Restaurants, boutiques, cafes, pubs near UQAM in the Quartier Latin, gay bars and clubs in Le Village, and the working-class neighbourhood of Sainte-Marie. | region4name=[[Montreal/Parc Jean-Drapeau|Parc Jean-Drapeau]] | region4color=#ACC492 | region4items= | region4description=The islands of Île Sainte-Helene and Île Notre-Dame and the Montreal Casino. |regionInteractiveMap=map1|regionmapLat=45.5520|regionmapLong=-73.6953|regionmapZoom=10}} ====Plateau Mont-Royal district==== {{Regionlist | regionmap= | regionmaptext= | regionmapsize= | region1name=[[Montreal/Plateau|The Plateau]] | region1color=#E9AFAE | region1items= | region1description=Trendy area north of downtown and east of Parc du Mont-Royal. | region2name=[[Montreal/Mile-End|Mile End]] | region2color=#066CF2 | region2items= | region2description=Bagels, restaurants, coffee shops, the Rialto Theatre, and boutiques. }} ===Other Montreal districts and Montreal Island towns=== {{Regionlist | regionmap= | regionmaptext= | regionmapsize= | region1name=[[Montreal/Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie|Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie]] | region1color=#DA6D7A | region1items= | region1description=Little Italy and Jean-Talon market. | region2name=[[Montreal/Westmount–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce|Westmount–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce]] | region2color=#6997A5 | region2items= | region2description=The upscale anglophone enclave of Westmount and the more down to earth and diverse neighbourhood of Notre-Dame-de-Grâce. | region3name=[[Montreal/Hochelaga-Maisonneuve|Hochelaga-Maisonneuve]] | region3color=#AB5D8F | region3items= | region3description=Olympic Park, Botanical Gardens. | region4name=[[Montreal/Côte-des-Neiges|Côte-des-Neiges]] | region4color=#73B27B | region4items= | region4description=Multicultural neighbourhood northwest of the mountain. | region5name=[[Montreal/Outremont|Outremont]] | region5color=#C86E2A | region5items= | region5description=Upscale francophone neighbourhood. | region6name=[[Montreal/South West|South West]] | region6color=#CC9241 | region6items= | region6description=Including Lachine canal, Atwater Market (a must!), gentrifying St. Henri, and the historically black enclave, but now very trendy area of, Petite-Bourgogne (Little Burgundy). | region7name=[[Montreal/Verdun|Verdun]] | region7color=#4F93C0 | region7items= | region7description=Quiet neighbourhood with emerging cuisine scene and activities along the river. }} ===Elsewhere on the island=== {{Regionlist | regionmap= | regionmaptext= | regionmapsize= | region1name=[[Montreal/West Island|West Island]] | region1color=#D5DB76 | region1items= | region1description=the western part of the island of Montreal. It is mainly a residential suburb of the city of Montreal. It is the location of Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport and McGill University's MacDonald Campus. The residents are mostly English speakers (or "anglophones"), in contrast to the mostly French speaking residents of the rest of Montreal (excluding Westmount). (About 55% of the population is anglophone, 20% is francophone, and 25% is "other".) | region2name=[[Montreal/North Island|North Island]] | region2color=#B383B3 | region2items= | region2description= | region3name=[[Montreal/East End|East End]] | region3color=#00FF02 | region3items= | region3description= is composed of the city of Montreal East and the Montreal boroughs of Rivière-des-Prairies–Pointe-aux-Trembles, Anjou, Montreal North, Saint Leonard, Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve and Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie }} ==Understand== [[File:Old_Port_of_Montreal_(French-_Vieux-Port_de_Montréal).jpg|thumb|280px|Montreal Old Port]] [[File:Place d'Armes August 2017 02.jpg|alt=|thumb|200x200px|Place d'Armes in Old Montreal]] On an island in the St. Lawrence River at the historically highest navigable point, Montreal has been a strategic location since before the arrival of Europeans in Canada. A thriving Iroquoian town called Hochelaga was on the site of present-day Montreal when explorer Jacques Cartier first visited in 1535. In 1642, the tiny town of Ville-Marie was founded as a Catholic mission by Paul Chomedey, sieur de Maisonneuve. It soon became a centre of the fur trade. After its capture by the English in 1762, Montreal remained (until the 1970s) the most important city in Canada and was briefly capital of the province in the 1840s. Prohibition on sales of alcohol in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s made Montreal a destination for cross-border fun seekers from nearby New England and New York. The city built up a seedy, yet playful, industry in alcohol, burlesque, and other vices. In the 1960s, an urban renewal drive centred on Expo 67. The World's Fair in Montreal brought a subway system (the métro) and attractive urban parks and is considered to be one of the most successful World Fairs. Over 50 million visitors gathered in Montreal during this memorable summer. The 1976 Olympics left a strikingly idiosyncratic stadium and many other urban improvements. The opening of the Saint Lawrence Seaway in 1959, though much-lauded as an economic boom, spelled the beginning of the end for Montreal's economic dominance in Canada. Once the transition point between western railways and eastern sea carriers, Montreal watched helplessly as some of this business moved farther west, up the now navigable seaway, to ports in Ontario and on Lake Superior. The Quebec sovereignty movement, which began to pick up steam in the 1960s, further chilled the atmosphere for Canada-wide businesses, many of which moved their headquarters to Toronto. Following an economic depression in the 1980s and 1990s, Montreal became more secure in its place in North America and the world. It remains a centre of culture, arts, computer technology, aerospace, the biotech industry, and media for all of Canada. ===Language === 47% of Montrealers speak French as their only mother tongue, while around 13% of the population speak English as their mother language, and 33% speak something else. It is considered to be polite to start a conversation in French, but Montrealers will generally switch easily to English when they realize you don't speak French. At a minimum, start with "''Bonjour'', can we speak English?" ===Orientation=== [[File:Montreal WV.png|thumb|200px|right|As the world sees Montreal - Assuming north is up]] [[File:montreal rt.png|thumb|200px|right|As we see ourselves - Assuming north is up]] :''It has been said that Montréal is the only city in the world where the sun "rises in the south"''. Montrealers use an unconventional compass, using the river and the mountain as cardinal points. When you are downtown, the St Lawrence River is “south” and Mount Royal is “north”; making the West Island and the East End correct in both their names and orientations. This tends to confuse visitors because the “East” End is really north and the “South” Shore is east, and the St Lawrence River runs almost north-south at this location. Most local maps use this convention as do the highways around the city. For example, Autoroute 15 north actually runs northwest and Autoroute 40 east runs northeast. To underscore this fact, a Montreal map will show that the "south end" of Victoria Bridge is in fact further north than the "north end". ===Gay Montreal=== Montreal is an extremely inviting destination for gay and lesbian tourists. Canada's contributions to gay rights have become widely known, but Quebec was the first province in Canada to pass a non-discrimination law for sexual orientation and to provide same-sex civil unions (although [[Toronto]] was the first municipality in Canada to do so). Same-sex marriage is legal in Quebec (neither residency nor citizenship are required for a marriage licence, but there is a three-week waiting period after you receive the licence) as it is in the rest of Canada. Canadian and Quebec immigration law allow residents to sponsor their same-sex partners or spouses. The métro station in the Gay Village, Beaudry, is marked with rainbow pillars. '''Montreal's pride celebration''' (last week of July, first week of August) is the second-largest in Canada after [[Toronto]]'s. ===Climate=== {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = -5.0 | febhigh = -3.4 | marhigh = 2.4 | aprhigh = 11.3 | mayhigh = 19.4 | junhigh = 24.2 | julhigh = 26.7 | aughigh = 25.7 | sephigh = 21.1 | octhigh = 13.2 | novhigh = 6.1 | dechigh = -1.2 | janlow = -13.5 | feblow = -12.4 | marlow = -6.5 | aprlow = 1.1 | maylow = 8.3 | junlow = 13.8 | jullow = 16.7 | auglow = 15.6 | seplow = 10.9 | octlow = 4.5 | novlow = -1.7 | declow = -8.7 | janprecip = 85.8 | febprecip = 65.5 | marprecip = 77.2 | aprprecip = 90.0 | mayprecip = 85.6 | junprecip = 83.6 | julprecip = 91.1 | augprecip = 93.6 | sepprecip = 89.2 | octprecip = 103.1 | novprecip = 84.2 | decprecip = 91.9 | description = See the Montreal 7 day forecast at [https://www.weather.gc.ca/city/pages/qc-147_metric_e.html Environment Canada] }} The climate of Montreal is a true humid continental climate with 4 distinct seasons. The city has warm—and occasionally hot & humid—summers. Typical summer temperatures average around {{c|26.7}} in the day and {{c|18}} at night. A heat wave in the summer could see temperatures rising upwards to or even exceeding {{c|32}} and not going below {{c|22}} at night, alongside humid conditions. Springs and autumns are generally mild, and winters are often very cold & snowy. Montreal gets over 2,000 hours of sunshine annually, daylight hours range from 05:15-20:45 in early summer, to 07:30-16:15 in the December. Precipitation is moderate throughout the year, with around 2 metres of snow per season. ===Visitor information=== * {{listing | name=Centre Infotouriste de Montréal | alt= | url=https://www.quebecoriginal.com/en/listing/tourist-information/offices/centre-infotouriste-de-montreal-1971117 | email=info@bonjourquebec.com | address=1255 rue Peel, bureau 100 | lat=45.5003 | long=-73.5717 | directions=At rue Sainte-Catherine; metro Peel | phone=+1 514 873-2015 | tollfree=+1-877-266-5687 | hours=Apr 1-May 7: 09:00-17:00; May 8-Oct 4: 09:00-18:00; Oct 5-Mar 31: 09:00-17:00; Closed: Dec 25 & Jan 1 | price= | lastedit=2022-08-24 | content= }} * [https://www.mtl.org/en Visitor information] from MTL.org ==Get in== {{IATA|YMQ}} is used as the metropolitan area airport code for the airport and rail station. ===By plane=== {{seealso|Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport}} * {{marker|type=go|name=Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport|lat=45.4581|long=-73.7520|url=https://www.admtl.com/en}} ({{IATA|YUL}}) ({{phone|+1 514-633-3333}} / {{phone|+1 800-465-1213}} ), also known to locals as Dorval Airport, is west of the city centre on Expressway (''Autoroute'') 20. It is well-connected domestically, and to Europe and the United States, but connections to the rest of the world are much more limited. Travel time to the airport from the city centre can be as much as an hour, depending on traffic. ==== Other airports ==== [[Plattsburgh#By plane|'''Plattsburgh International Airport''']] and [[Burlington (Vermont)#By plane|'''Burlington International Airport''']], in the United States, are 1 hr 20 min and 1 hr 50 min away, respectively, by car from Montreal. Adirondack Trailways offers a bus service from Plattsburgh International Airport to Montreal. Greyhound offers a bus service from Burlington International Airport to Montreal. For travellers from the US, these airports may offer a significant cost savings compared to Trudeau but at the added inconvenience of arranging ground transportation between the US and Canada. ===By car=== From [[Toronto]], take Highway 401 east about 5 hr until it becomes Autoroute (freeway) 20 on the Quebec side of the border. It will then take about an hour to get to downtown. Be alert for frequent speed-limit changes along this road. To reach downtown follow the Centre-Ville signs and take Autoroute 720 (Autoroute 20 continues over the Pont Champlain bridge to the South Shore). {{infobox|Rideshare|Save money with a rideshare. There are daily rides from Toronto to Montreal and back for $30-50, which is cheaper than any other means of transportation between the two cities. A good website for ridesharing in Canada and the USA is [http://craigslist.com Craigslist]. Dedicated rideshare sites include [http://www.liftsurfer.com LiftSurfer] and [http://www.erideshare.com eRideShare] Warning: Advertisement for a van (with a DVD player) that offers rides to Montreal and back every day has drivers that hardly speak any English at all (nor French). The service provider is '''unreliable'''. Service is also very poor.}} From [[Ottawa]], it's about 2 hours east along Highway 417 (which becomes Autoroute 40 in Quebec) to Montreal. The portions of Highway 417 and Autoroute 40 between Ottawa and Montreal (west of the Autoroute 40 interchange with Autoroute 25) are part of the [[Trans-Canada Highway]]. From [[Quebec City]], it's about 3 hours west on either Autoroute 40, or Autoroute 20 followed by Autoroute 25. Autoroute 20 west of [[Rivière-du-Loup]] and Montreal area portions of Autoroute 25 between Autoroute 40 and Autoroute 20 are parts of the Trans-Canada Highway. From [[New York City]], take Interstate 87 north through [[Albany (New York)|Albany]] and the eastern half of New York State for about six hours. After the border crossing near [[Plattsburgh]], the freeway becomes Autoroute 15, which leads directly into downtown Montreal over the Pont Champlain, the most beautiful approach to the city. The drive time from Plattsburgh to downtown Montreal is approximately one hour. From [[Boston]], take Interstate 93 to Interstate 89 after you cross into New Hampshire. Follow Interstate 89 north to and through Vermont to the border crossing, where it turns into Highway 133. This secondary road continues to Autoroute 10, which leads directly into downtown Montreal. The whole trip takes about 5 hours. Once you cross the border it is about 1½ hours to Montreal. From [[Rouyn-Noranda]], [[Val-d'Or]], and [[Mont-Tremblant]], take route 117, and transfer on to Autoroute 15. Route 117 is part of a branch of the [[Trans-Canada Highway]], that starts from its interchange with Autoroute 40 (Trans-Canada Highway's main route) in [[Montreal]], which becomes Highway 66 in Ontario. Highway 66 ends as part of the Trans-Canada Highway about 14 km west of [[Kirkland Lake]], where Highway 66 intersects with Highway 11, which is another branch of the Trans-Canada Highway. ===By train=== {{Seealso|Rail travel in Canada}}[[File:Inside the Gare Centrale du CN, CN Central Station.jpg|thumb|Montreal Central Station]] {{Go|name=Montreal Central Station (''Gare Centrale'')|alt=({{IATA|YMY}})|url=https://www.viarail.ca/en/explore-our-destinations/stations/quebec/montreal/station|address=895 rue de la Gauchetière Ouest|lat=45.5000|long=-73.5667|directions=one block west of rue University, and is served by the Bonaventure metro (subway) station|lastedit=2023-10-07|content=Train operators stopping at this station are listed below.|wikipedia=Montreal Central Station|wikidata=Q1148666}} ==== Trains from within Canada ==== {{listing | name=VIA Rail Canada | alt= | url=https://www.viarail.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-842-7245 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Via Rail | wikidata=Q876720 | lastedit=2022-03-31 | content=Operates train routes from Canada's west coast and east coast. }} VIA Rail operates fast and comfortable passenger trains to Montreal along the busy Quebec-Ontario corridor and from destinations in northern Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. All fares below are five-day advance booking prices for one-way travel in "Comfort" (coach/economy) class, expect to pay almost 50% more if you book on the day of travel. Check the Via website for "[http://www.viarail.ca/en/deals express deals]", which are posted every Tuesday. Highly discounted tickets are available, typically for long distance train routes or short distance trips at non-peak hours. Express deals on short distance trips (e.g. Montreal-Toronto) are typically offered only for the upcoming weeks, whereas long distance deals (e.g. Winnipeg to Montreal) may be available several weeks in advance. Business Class is available for a premium and includes a meal, alcoholic refreshments, snacks, and free wireless internet in station lounges and on board the train. An ISIC student card can obtain a discount on Via, and on Amtrak in the USA. Bicycles can also be brought aboard as is on certain Corridor trains during the summer months. See [[Rail travel in Canada]] for more information. VIA Rail Canada train routes serving Montreal: * Between [[Quebec City]] and [[Ottawa]] including stops in [[Drummondville]], [[Saint-Hyacinthe]], [[Saint-Lambert]], Montreal, [[Montreal/West Island|Dorval]], and [[Alexandria (Ontario)|Alexandria]]. Multiple trains daily travel the entire route and some additional trains travel daily between Montreal and Ottawa. Travel time to Montreal from Ottawa is 2 hours (from $35), from Drummonville is 1.25 hours, and from Quebec City is 3.25-3.5 hours (from $47). * Between Montreal and [[Toronto]] including stops in [[Montreal/West Island|Dorval]], [[Cornwall (Ontario)|Cornwall]], [[Brockville]], [[Kingston (Ontario)|Kingston]], [[Belleville (Ontario)|Belleville]], [[Cobourg]], and [[Oshawa]]. Operates 6 trains daily. Travel time to Montreal from Toronto is 5.25 hours (from $85) and from Kingston is 2.25-2.5 hours. * Between [[Halifax]] and Montreal on [[The Ocean]] route, including stops in [[Moncton]] and Sainte-Foy (near [[Quebec City|Q]]<nowiki/>[[Quebec City|ue]]<nowiki/>[[Quebec City|bec City]]). Operates 3 evenings per week. Travel time to Montreal from Halifax is 22 hours (from $133 coach, $187 upper berth, $245 bedroom)), from Moncton is 17.5 hours (from $110 coach, $162 upper berth, $219 bedroom), and from Sainte-Foy is 3.5 hours. A shuttle between Sainte-Foy and Quebec City's train station is available for The Ocean trains, but must be reserved in advance. The choice of sleeping accommodation varies according to the season. Along with trains between Montreal and Quebec, the Ocean is now almost exclusively operated by modern Renaissance trains that were built for the aborted Channel Tunnel sleeper services between [[Great Britain]] and [[France]]. * Between [[Jonquière]] (in the [[Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean]] region) and Montreal including stops in [[Lac-aux-Sables|Hervey-Jonction]], [[Shawinigan]], [[Saint-Paulin]], [[Saint-Justin]], and Joliette. Travel time to Montreal from Jonquière is 9 hours (from $55) and from Shawinigan is 2.5 hours. Operates three days per week. Route operates as a wilderness service: a request stop may be made at any point along the route for those who want to hike and kayak in the remoter regions of Quebec that the train passes through. * Between [[Senneterre]] (in the [[Abitibi-Témiscamingue|Abitibi]] region) and Montreal including stops in [[La Tuque]], Hervey-Jonction, Shawinigan, Saint-Paulin, Saint-Justin, and Joliette. Travel time to Montreal from Seneterre is 11.5 hours (from $81), from La Tuque is 5.5 hours, and from Shawinigan is 2.5 hours. Operates three days per week. Route operates as a wilderness service: a request stop may be made at any point along the route for those who want to hike and kayak in the remoter regions of Quebec that the train passes through. <!-- commenting out until service is restored:Three evenings a week, the Ocean also pulls the "Chaleur" train as far as [[Matapedia]]. The train divides in the early morning and the Chaleur follows the southern shore of the Gaspé Peninsula as far as [[Gaspé]] (17½ hr, from $106 coach, $165 upper berth, $215 bedroom). However, the service to Gaspe has been suspended with no confirmation of restarting it.--> ==== Trains from the United States ==== {{listing|name=Amtrak|alt=|url=https://www.amtrak.com/|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+1 215-856-7924|tollfree=+1-800-872-7245|hours=|price=|wikipedia=Amtrak|wikidata=Q23239|lastedit=2022-03-31|content=}} Operates the [https://www.amtrak.com/adirondack-train Adirondack] daily between Montreal and [[New York City]] including stops along the way in [[Saint-Lambert]], [[Champlain and Rouses Point|Rouses Point]], [[Plattsburgh]], [[Westport (New York)|Westport]], [[Ticonderoga]], [[Saratoga Springs]], [[Schenectady]], Albany ([[Rensselaer (New York)|Rensselaer]]), [[Hudson (New York)|Hudson]], [[Rhinecliff]], [[Poughkeepsie]], [[Croton-on-Hudson]], and [[Yonkers]]. Travel time to Montreal from Plattsburgh is 4.25 hours, from Albany (Rensselaer) is 8.5 hours, and from New York City is 11.5 hours (from US$61). There are connection at Schenectady to (but not from) Chicago (24 hr, US$114) and in New York to Philadelphia (14 hr, US$97) and Washington, DC (16 hr, US$120). The train also passes through much of upstate [[New York (state)|New York]] and hugs Lake Champlain for a large part of the trip. South of Albany, the route follows the Hudson River and passes a number of historic sites. Reliability of the service has improved greatly since an extra hour was added to the previous 10-hr schedule, but one should still factor in the frequent possibility of arriving an hour later than scheduled. The journey to New York is cheaper but slower than by bus (see below), but it makes up for it with superior comfort, extra legroom, the ability to walk around the train and visit the cafe car for food and drink at your leisure, and the good view from the train of the Lake Champlain and Hudson River scenery. Train passengers leaving from Boston may take the Regional Service to Penn Station, New York City, and transfer to the Adirondack line to Montreal, but this method requires significant layover times in New York. The train station has no permanent lockers but it's usually possible to keep it guarded by Via Rail for less than a day if travelling with it. There is Wifi and a few power outlets. ===By bus=== Buses arrive and depart from the ''[http://www.gamtl.com/en/Bienvenue/default.aspx Gare d'autocars de Montreal]'' (not to be confused with the ''Gare Centrale'' or central train station) at 1717 Berri Street (adjacent to the Berri-UQAM metro station). Call [tel:+1&#x20;514-842-2281 +1 514-842-2281] for schedules and prices. Intercity operators include: * {{Listing|name=Autobus Galland|url=https://www.galland-bus.com/|phone=+1-450-687-8666|tollfree=+1 877-806-8666|lastedit=2022-05-19|content=Operates bus service in [[Quebec]].}} Operates bus service between Mont-Laurier and Montreal and including stops in [[Mont-Tremblant]], [[Saint-Jérôme]], [[Mirabel]], and [[Laval]]. Travel time to Montreal from Mont-Laurier is 4.75-5 hours and from Mont-Tremblant is 2.75-3 hours, and from Saint-Jérôme is 1.25-1.5 hours. Operates several days per week between Mont-Laurier and Montreal. There are additional trips between Mont-Tremblant and Montreal, resulting in daily service along that part of the route. * {{Listing|name=Autobus Maheux|url=https://autobusmaheux.com/|email=service_client@autobusmaheux.com|phone=|tollfree=+1-866-863-6066|lastedit=2022-05-01|content=Operates bus routes within [[Quebec]] with some connections to [[Ontario]].}} Operates the following routes to Montreal: ** Between [[Rouyn-Noranda]] and Montreal including stops in [[Val-d'Or]], Grand-Remous, Mont-Laurier, [[Mont-Tremblant]], [[Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts]], [[Saint-Jérôme]], and [[Laval]]. Stops between Mont-Laurier and Montreal are drop off only on the way to Montreal and pick up only on the way to Rouyn-Noranda. Travel time to Montreal from Rouyn-Norand is 9-9.5 hours, from Val-d'Or is 7-7.5 hours, and from Grand-Remous is 4.25-4.75. Operates daily. From Rouyn-Noranda there is service to [[North Bay (Ontario)|North Bay]]. ** Between [[Ottawa]] and Montreal including stops in [[Gatineau]] and [[Laval]]. Travel time to Montreal from Ottawa is 3.5 hours. Operates daily. *{{Listing|name=Autocars Skyport|url=https://www.skyportinternational.com/|email=reservation@keolis.ca|phone=+1-514-631-1155|tollfree=+1-800-471-1155|price=$95 per adult one-way, $161 per adult round trip, $65.50 per child (2-11 years old) one-way, $111 per child round trip|lastedit=2022-05-19|content=During ski season (December to April), operates a multiple times per day non-stop route between Montreal International Airport and [[Mont-Tremblant]], where it stops at various hotels.}} * {{listing | name=Greyhound | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-214-849-8100 | tollfree=+1-800-231-2222 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Greyhound Lines | wikidata=Q755309 | lastedit=2022-04-23 | content=Operates bus service across the [[United States of America]]. }} Operates the following routes to Montreal: ** From [[New York City]] including stops in [[Albany (New York)|Albany]], [[Saratoga Springs]], and [[Plattsburgh]]. Travel time to Montreal from New York City is 8.25-9.5 hours, from Albany is 5.75-6.25 hours, and from Plattsburgh is 2.25-2.5 hours. ** From [[Boston]] including stops in [[Manchester (New Hampshire)|Manchester]], [[Concord (New Hampshire)|Concord]], [[Hanover (New Hampshire)|Hanover]], [[White River Junction]], and [[Burlington (Vermont)|Burlington]]. Travel time to Montreal from Boston is 8.5 hours, from Manchester is 7 hours, from Concord is 6.5 hours, and from Burlington is 3 hours. * {{listing | name=Intercar | alt= | url=https://intercar.ca/ | email=serviceclient@intercar.ca | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-418-547-2167 | tollfree=+1-800-806-2167 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Intercar | wikidata=Q3153098 | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Operates bus routes within [[Quebec]]. }} **From [[Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean|Dolbeau]] to Montreal including stops in [[Val-Jalbert]], Alma, and Quebec City. Travel time to Montreal from Dolbeau is 9 hours, from Val-Jalbert is 7.25 hours, from Alma is 6.25 hours, and from Quebec City is 3.5 hours. Operates several days per week. **From [[Jonquière]] to Montreal including stops in [[Chicoutimi]] and Quebec City. Travel time to Montreal from Jonquière is 6.75 hours, from Chicoutimi is 6.5 hours, and from Quebec City is 4 hours. Operates daily. **From [[Baie-Comeau]] to Montreal including stops in [[Forestville (Quebec)|Forestville]], [[Tadoussac]], [[Baie-Sainte-Catherine]], [[Saint-Siméon]], [[La Malbaie]], [[Clermont (Quebec)|Clermont]], [[Saint-Hilarion]], [[Baie-Saint-Paul]], [[Saint-Tite-des-Caps]], [[Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré]], [[Boischatel]], and [[Quebec City]]. Trips to Baie-Comeau start from Quebec City, and do not include a stop in Montreal. Travel time to Montreal from Baie-Comeau is 11.25 hours, from Forestville is 9.5 hours, from Saint-Siméon is 7.25 hours, from La Malbaie is 6.25 hours, and from Baie-Saint-Paul is 5.25 hours, and from Quebec City is 4 hours. Operates daily. ***Several days per week there a same day connection to and from [[Sept-Îles]] involving a transfer in Baie-Comeau. Travel time to Montreal from Sept-Îles is 14.5 hours. * {{Listing|name=Limocar by Transdev|url=https://limocar.ca/|email=sac@limocar.ca|phone=+1-819-562-8899|tollfree=+1-866-692-8899|lastedit=2022-05-01|content=Operates bus routes in [[Quebec]].}} Operates the following bus routes to Montreal: ** Between Montreal and [[Granby (Quebec)|Granby]] (1.5 hours if direct, 1.75 hours if transfer required in Bromont). ** Between Montreal and [[Sherbrooke]] with stops in [[Longueuil]], Bromont, and [[Magog]]. Travel time to Montreal from Longueuil is 15 minutes, from Magog is 1.5-1.75 hours, and from Sherbrooke is 2-2.25 hours. Operates multiple times daily. * {{listing | name=Megabus | alt=Coach Canada | url=https://ca.megabus.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-866-488-4452 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Megabus (North America) | wikidata=Q6808155 | lastedit=2022-04-22 | content=Service from [[Toronto]] via [[Kingston (Ontario)|Kingston]]. This route does not use the downtown bus terminal, but rather a street stop at 997 Saint-Antoine Ouest, near Metro Bonaventure. Travel time to Montreal from Toronto is 5.75-7.25 hours and from Kingston is 3.25-3.75 hours. }} * {{go | name=Orléans Express | alt= | url=https://www.orleansexpress.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-450-640-1477 | tollfree=+1-833-449-6444 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Orléans Express | wikidata=Q3356500 | lastedit=2022-04-22 | content=Operates bus routes within [[Quebec]] and to [[Ottawa]]. }} Bus routes to Montreal: ** From [[Gatineau]] via [[Ottawa]]. Travel time to Montreal from Gatineau is 2.75-3 hours and from Ottawa is 2.25-2.5 hours. *** Travellers from [[Toronto]] and [[Kingston (Ontario)|Kingston]] can reach Montreal by transferring in Ottawa. ** From [[Quebec City]] via [[Drummondville]]. Travel time to Montreal from Quebec City is 3-3.25 hours and from Drummondville is 1.25 hours. Operates multiple trips daily. Most trips do not stop in Drummondville, but at least one trip per day stops in each direction. ** From Quebec City via [[Saint-Hyacinthe]], [[Drummondville]] and [[Victoriaville]]. Travel time to Montreal from Quebec City is 4.25 hours and from Drummondville is 1.5 hours. Operates two days per week. For Victoriaville stop, it is drop off only for trips to Quebec City and pick up only for trips to Montreal. ** From Quebec City via [[Trois-Rivières]]. Travel time to Montreal from Quebec City is 3.75 hours and from Trois-Rivières is 1.75-2 hours. Operates multiple times daily. ** Timed connections in Quebec City enable same day trips to and from [[Rimouski]] via [[Rivière-du-Loup]]. Travel time to Montreal from Rimouski is 6.25-7.75 hours and from Rivière-du-Loup is 4.5-6 hours. ** Timed connections in Quebec City and Rimouski enable same day trips to and from [[Gaspé]], [[Percé]], and Pointe-à-la-Croix. Travel time to Montreal from Gaspé is 13.75 hours, from Percé is 14.5 hours, and from Pointe-à-la-Croix is 9.5 hours. *** Pointe-à-la-Croix is 4km away from Campbellton, NB, which is connected to destinations in [[New Brunswick]], [[Nova Scotia]], and [[Prince Edward Island]] via [https://www.maritimebus.com/ Maritime Bus]. Travel to Montreal from the Maritimes is possible only with an overnight layover in Campbellton. <!-- This is an unregulated jitney service, there are better options * {{go | name=Tour Express | alt= | url=https://tourexpress.ca/ | email=info@tourexpress.ca | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-514-228-2303 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-07-26 | content=Intercity service Montréal-Ottawa and Montréal-Gatineau. Travel time to Montreal from [[Ottawa]] is 2 hours. }} --> ===By bicycle=== Montreal is an island in the middle of the Saint Lawrence River, accessible only by bridge. Not all bridges are bike accessible; however, several are, including the breathtaking Jacques Cartier bridge. Prominent bike lanes exist throughout the city, most notably along the Lachine Canal, Rue Rachel, boulevard de Maisonneuve, rue Brébeuf, rue Berri, rue Cherrier and along rue Laurier. The Plateau-Mont-Royal is where most of these bike paths are and is the neighbourhood, along with neighbouring Mile-End, where there are the most people who cycle and walk as a means of day to day transport. It has the highest density population wise and the lowest car ownership rate per household. However, bike theft is an issue, especially in the Plateau. Most locals can recall a time when they witnessed bike theft, though the situation is getting better now that the public bike share program, Bixi, has been implemented. It was not uncommon to have somebody offer you a stolen bike for sale on the street. Be equally aware of the peripheral articles of your bicycle; seats, baskets, and wheels can often be easily detached if not properly secured to the bike's frame or locked with a u-lock. ====From Montreal Central Station (''Gare Centrale'')==== Upon disembarking the train, go to the baggage claim area and wait there for a baggage attendant to bring your bicycle to you. If you have checked other baggage, claim it at the conveyor belt. The easiest way to exit the station is at the main entrance near the baggage claim through the parking garage onto rue de la Gauchetière. All other exits require you to carry your bike up flights of stairs. At the west side of the station is the entrance to the Underground City and access to Bonaventure metro station on the Orange line. However, there is no elevator access to the metro from the train station, which means that you have to carry your bike and luggage down several flights of stairs. ====From Montreal-Trudeau International Airport==== The [http://www.admtl.com/ airport] is on the western part of the island. From the main terminal, exit onto the main access road and turn right. Wind along the access road until the first major interchange and turn right. You will reach Albert de Niverville Boulevard and be forced to turn left (south) towards the main highway (Autoroute 20). At the end of this Boulevard, turn right on Cardinal Avenue. To your right, you will come to a pedestrian underpass that takes you under the railway tracks and leads to the Dorval Circle, a very busy traffic circle. This looks intimidating, but the traffic lights will allow you to ride safely under Autoroute 20 to Dorval Boulevard ''(Boulevard Dorval)''. Continue south down Dorval Boulevard until the end. Turn left on Lakeshore Drive ''(Chemin Lakeshore)'' towards the city. This road turns into Boulevard St. Joseph. You will eventually come to a bike path to your right that winds along the shores of Lac-Saint Louis (part of the Saint Lawrence river) through the town of Lachine. Continue down this path until you reach the entrance of the Lachine Canal. Cross the canal and continue down the Lachine Canal Bike Path (Piste Cyclable Canal Lachine) and follow the signs to the Old Port (Vieux Port) in Old Montreal (Vieux Montreal). The Lachine Canal Bike Path can be quite busy on weekends and holidays, so be ready to take your time. It is paved over its entire length. ====From Ontario==== Cyclists approaching Montreal from the west must take secondary highways to Dorion, where Autoroute 20, inaccessible to bicycles over most of its length, becomes accessible as it crosses bridges first to Île Perrot (Perrot Island) and then to the Island of Montreal (at Saine-Anne-de-Bellevue). Bicycles should use the sidewalk on these bridges as traffic is usually heavy. From here, cyclists may take Lakeshore Boulevard and the Lachine Canal Bike Path (see Airport section above) to Old Montreal and the downtown core. The Isle-aux-Tourtes Bridge on Autoroute 40 is not accessible by bicycle. ====From the United States==== Cyclists approaching Montreal from the South Shore to the south and east of Montreal may access the Island of Montreal a number of ways (see [http://www.parcjeandrapeau.com/ map]). The surest (but not foolproof) way is using the sidewalk Jacques Cartier Bridge. When it is not closed for repairs, it is open year round and all day. A paved bike path along the shores of the Saint Lawrence River provides the most scenic approach to the bridge. The new (Samuel-de) Champlain Bridge (built in 2019) has [https://www.samueldechamplainbridge.ca/pedestrians-and-cyclists/ an excellent cyclist-and-pedestrian path] that will take you from Brossard to Nun's Island (and from there, give you easy access to the Pointe-Saint-Charles or Verdun neighbourhoods of Montreal). An equally popular route is [http://www.parcjeandrapeau.com/en/south-shore-bike-link-route-verte-montreal/ from the Saint Lambert Locks (Ecluses Saint-Lambert) of the Saint Lawrence Seaway near the Victoria Bridge (Pont Victoria) east of Montreal]. The bike drawbridge may be blocked by the entertaining spectacle of a ship passing through the seaway. From here, cyclists take the Grand Prix racing track (Gilles-Villeneuve circuit) on Île Notre Dame to the Concord Bridge to Montreal. This route is [http://www.parcjeandrapeau.com/Default.aspx?tabid=78 closed sometimes for car racing events or construction]{{Dead link|date=December 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. In this case, cyclists can take a circuitous detour down a gravel causeway dividing the seaway and river to the Estacade, an ice boom that crosses the river parallel to the Champlain Bridge to Nun's Island and eventually Montreal. A lesser known crossing involves one at the Sainte Catherine Locks (Ecluses Sainte-Catherine) at Saint-Catherine south of Montreal. These bridges cross the seaway to the same causeway as the Saint Lambert locks. In this case, the road to the Estacade ice boom is paved. The Mercier bridge and Lafontaine Tunnel are definitely inaccessible to bicycles. These can be dangerous, even in a car. There is no bicycle path crossing the Mercier Bridge. ==== In winter ==== The Jacques-Cartier bridge operates on a winter schedule when the society that manages the bridge decides conditions are no longer adequate. This means access is closed at night as well as during snow removal operations. The new Champlain bridge bike path is open except during snow removal operations. The Saint-Lambert Locks south shore link [http://www.parcjeandrapeau.com/en/south-shore-bike-link-route-verte-montreal/ closes from about November 15th to April 15th]. ==Get around== {{Mapshape|wikidata=Q340|type=geomask}} Montreal has historically been divided into east and west by boulevard Saint-Laurent, with the west side traditionally being Anglophone and the east side traditionally being Francophone. Numbered addresses on streets that cross Saint-Laurent start there and increase in either direction; most addresses are given as "rue ____ Ouest" (west) or "rue ____ Est" (east). Many streets are named after Catholic saints and figures from local history, both well-known and obscure. In Montreal street names, "east" and "west" refer to the direction parallel to the St. Lawrence River, and "north" and "south" refer to the direction perpendicular to the St. Lawrence River. Because the St. Lawrence River runs almost north-south near downtown Montreal, "east", "west", "north", and "south" are actually northeast, southwest, northwest and southeast respectively. Confusingly, most maps displayed in the city have "Montreal north" on top which can be confusing with a satellite navigation that uses pole north. Also, don't try to navigate by looking at the sun! ===On foot=== Walking is a favoured way to get around the densely packed downtown and the narrow streets of Old Montreal, especially during the warmer months. However, beware during winter months, as sidewalks can be icy and extremely hazardous after winter snow and ice storms. Winter boots with good grip are essential for surviving pavements that have not been cleared. Beware also (as much as you can) of thawing ice falling from overhanging balconies and roofs. But you can always take the stairs down to Montreal's famous "Underground City" (''Montréal souterrain''), called RÉSO, a network of pedestrian corridors connecting Métro stations, shopping centres, and office complexes. Jaywalking is widespread and rarely punished. However, drivers will usually not stop or even slow down if a pedestrian steps out in front of them, even at marked crosswalks. At an intersection, however, a pedestrian will have right of passage before turning traffic and most drivers respect this. Despite Montreal drivers' poor reputation for aggressiveness, they generally respect pedestrians. Rue Sainte-Catherine is Montreal's main commercial artery and busiest pedestrian thoroughfare. The "Underground City" and the Green Line (or line 1) of Montreal's Metro is easily accessible from all the major office complexes, shopping malls, department stores, and theatre complexes that line it. Smaller chain stores and restaurants also vie for valuable commercial space. Well-kept historic churches with green space provide quiet oasis and contrast with the giant neon signs of strip clubs. Major hotels can generally be found one or two blocks north and south of Sainte-Catherine in the downtown core. Bars, restaurants, and dance clubs cluster within a block of Sainte-Catherine around Crescent and Bishop, catering to a mostly English-speaking clientele. Rue Saint-Denis, farther east, and the Gay Village between Berri and de Lormier, even more to the east, are mostly French-speaking. McGill College Boulevard in the downtown core from Saine-Catherine offers an open view of Mount Royal to the north and an impressive view of the Place Ville-Marie skyscraper to the south. Keep your head up and beware of following the flow of the crowd on this street: throngs of pedestrians often walk across cross streets against red lights, risking life and limb. Rue Prince-Arthur, east of Saint-Laurent, is for pedestrians only. Another pedestrian-only locale is Montreal's Chinatown, on Rue de la Gauchtière Est between Saint-Urbain and Saint-Laurent. A good trick for navigating downtown Montreal is to remember that streets slope up toward Mount Royal, which is just north of downtown and easy to see from most locations. The districts surrounding downtown Montreal are especially delightful on foot. To the south is [[Montreal/Old Montreal|Old Montreal]] (Le Vieux-Montréal) (its narrow streets and buildings dating from the 17th and 18th centuries really can make you feel like you're in Old Europe) and the Old Port (Le Vieux-Port), a waterfront strolling park with exhibits and boat tours, is very popular with the locals. To the north, the Golden Square Mile and the McGill University Campus is wedged between Mount Royal and Sherbrooke Street on the southern slope of the mountain. Old Victorian mansions and townhouses can be found along the sloping streets, many now housing McGill University's offices and libraries. Just west of downtown is affluent Westmount, a perfect example of 19th-century English-style homes and gardens (inhabited to a great extent by English-speaking people) climbing the slopes of Mount Royal's western part (the higher you climb, the larger the old mansions). Just east and northeast of downtown are the mostly French-speaking Gay Village (Le Village Gai) and Plateau (Plateau Mont-Royal) districts. Street after street displays turn-of-the-19th-century row duplexes and triplexes, replete with famous Montreal outdoor staircases, overflowing front gardens (or snow-covered gables, depending on the time of year), and tiny shops tucked into every nook and cranny. For people who like to see a culture where it lives, Le Plateau is the place to wander about in. Mount Royal (Mont-Royal) is also accessible from the urban core on foot. Fit pedestrians can climb Rue Peel to the southern edge of the park. A series of renovated staircases will take you directly to the Chalet near the top of the mountain, with its classic view of the downtown core. A more leisurely climb to the top awaits those on Olmsted Road (6.5&nbsp;km), a wide, gently sloping bike and footpath accessible from the Plateau in Parc Jeanne-Mance (also known as Fletcher's Field). Smaller footpaths serendipitously branch off from this road. A cross-country ski path also winds to the top in the wintertime. Mount Royal's park was designed by Frederick Olmsted, a landscape architect who lived from 1822 to 1903 and was also responsible for the design of Central Park in [[New York City]] and the Emerald Necklace in [[Boston]]. ===By car=== Driving ([http://www.saaq.gouv.qc.ca/ SAAQ]) in Montreal can be a challenge for many North American motorists. Although turning right on a red light is allowed across the rest of Quebec (except at intersections where a sign indicates this is not permitted), right turns on red are strictly prohibited on the island of Montreal. The stop lights at most of downtown intersections are on the opposite side of the intersection, not at the stop line as in some of Europe. The use of road salt to keep roads ice-free during severe winters takes its toll on the roadways, which are either heavily potholed or subject to perpetual construction. Downtown traffic is dense. Street parking can be difficult. Parking meters are in use seven days a week in most districts (M-F 09:00-21:00, Sa 09:00-18:00, Su 13:00-18:00), including statutory holidays. The standard parking ticket cost is $52. Parking tickets may be appealed in court only by the owner of the car that was subject to the infraction, so if a rented car is ticketed, the person who rented may be unable to contest the charge. Car parking downtown is expensive at around $3 an hour at parking meters or $25 per day at commercial parking lots. Parking signs are all in French, and will describe a day and hour (based on 24-hr clock) along with conditions for parking. Many arterial roads prohibit parking on one side during rush hour, and vehicles are subject to $150 fine plus towing costs and other fees. Montreal does not paint curbs red next to fire hydrants, but it is still illegal to park there. {{infobox|Days of the week |lundi — Monday<br> mardi — Tuesday<br> mercredi — Wednesday<br> jeudi — Thursday<br> vendredi — Friday<br> samedi — Saturday<br> dimanche — Sunday}} There are also many private and public parking lots, and their prices vary widely. There may even be $15–20 differences between two parking lots just a few blocks from each other. {{infobox|Sign Language |North — Nord<br> East — Est<br> South — Sud<br> West — Ouest<br> Exit — Sortie<br> Bridge — Pont}} During the winter months, heavy snowfalls are common. In the aftermath of a snowstorm, an intensively-prepared "déneigement" (snow removal) process begins with intimidatingly large snow plows and trucks clearing, chewing up, and transporting away the snow. If you leave your car parked on a street, pay close attention to any orange "no parking" signs that will appear on roads to be cleared. Tow trucks will sound a loud 2-tone horn siren just before clearing. This is an announcement that a street is about to be cleared and that all parked cars will be cited/and or towed if they are not moved. For this reason it's important to be able to check your vehicle at least once daily after a snowfall. It is best to use indoor or underground parking if snow clearing is likely. Many downtown streets are one way, which can complicate getting around. If you see a sign at an intersection that has direction arrows in a green circle, that means those are the only directions you are allowed to turn. Left turns are allowed on a green light provided there are no other signs prohibiting. Visitors should be familiar with the ''flashing green'' light, which indicates a protected left-turn (priority), which is equivalent to a green arrow in other parts of the world. Some signals are green arrows that flash, this is the same meaning. Autoroutes (expressways or freeways) can be challenging for visitors, as most signs are French, but most symbols are the same as in English Canada and the United States. ===By bike=== [[File:Bixi St-Laurent.jpg|300px|thumb|Bixi bike stand]] Cycling is the best way to visit the city, especially its central neighbourhoods like the Plateau Mont-Royal; it is a very popular mode of transportation once the coldest winter weather is over. The city is criss-crossed by more than 900 km of cycle paths, and the network is rapidly expanding. In the past few years there has been a major improvement in the quantity of safer separated bike lanes, with new lanes popping up in every neighbourhood. Montreal has become one of the best cities in North America for urban cycling. The [https://montreal.ca/en/articles/ebn-montreals-express-bike-network-4666 '''Réseau express vélo (REV)'''] provides safe, separated and mostly direct bike lanes in key locations and is best for riding across different parts of the city in a very efficient way. Montreal City Council publish an [http://ville.montreal.qc.ca/portal/page?_pageid=8957,99693747&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL interactive map] of the cycle route network. One of the nicest path is the Lachine Canal path that stretches from Lachine, along Lac St-Louis, down to Old Montreal along the canal. You can cross over to the South Shore either on the Samuel-de Champlain Bridge, Jacques Cartier Bridge, Île Notre-Dame, or via the Estacade ice bridge from Île des Sœurs. Even if you are on a bike path, beware of drivers especially if they are turning, as lines of visibility at intersections are not well enforced in the city. Generally Montreal drivers in the central neighbourhoods are used to sharing the road with bikes and so are courteous, there are always a few, usually from outlying neighbourhoods, who give all drivers a bad name. Some downtown bike paths are separated from the road by parked cars, which decreases visibility, both yours and the driver's. The often crowded bike path on rue Rachel one is the worst for this, however the Plateau part of the path will be renovated soon to make it safer and greener. If one is comfortable driving in Montreal, one generally can feel comfortable biking there as well. Montreal pedestrians are known for not waiting for a light to change if there are no cars coming; cyclists are a bit like that too and often treat the many stop signs on residential streets more as yield signs than as stop signs. Wearing a helmet is not required under the law, though, for children especially, it's better to be safe than sorry. The [http://montreal.bixi.com/ '''Bixi''' system] is a public bike-share system. Rated the best in the world, it was designed and developed in Montreal and has since been exported to many cities around the world including London, UK and Sydney, Australia. Major credit cards are accepted. The Bixi was conceived for local active transit but is accessible to tourists as well. For a flat $5 fee, you can use Bixi bikes as much as you like for 24 hours provided you don't use a particular bixi bike for more than 30 minutes at a time before returning it to a docking station. After returning the bike to a docking station, you can get another bike (even at the same station) after a 2-minute waiting period. As of 2023 there are over 830 Bixi stations with over 10000 bikes, including 2300 e-bikes, covering much of the city and some suburbs. The tourist information centre has maps of the stations. Helmets and locks are not provided. You could use your own lock, but there is usually a station not more than a block away on a commercial strip so returning the Bixi to the nearest stand is always the safest and most cost-effective choice. Stations fill up and empty quickly; you may have to bike to the next station to find an empty docking spot. If you have a smartphone, there is an app that shows you real-time the nearest stations, how many bikes are docked, or whether there is a free docking spot available. Be aware that a helmet is mandatory under the law if riding an electric bike. Police has been known to give fines. Skate and bike rental shops are common, particularly in the Old Port and the Plateau. Visit La Maison des Cyclistes (the cyclists' house) at 1251 rue Rachel Est for all info on cycling in Montreal. (See Do for specific bike paths). ==== In winter ==== Montreal, however does a fair job of clearing snow on a select number of bike paths in the city, including the REV, the de Maisonneuve bike path, Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Rachel and Clark bike paths. Painted bike lanes, on the other hand are often badly cleared, resulting in dangerous ice build up. The popular Lachine Canal bike path, however, does not have snow removal which makes it very difficult to ride on in winter. The [https://jacquescartierchamplain.ca/en/active-mobility/jacques-cartier-bridge-multipurpose-path/ Jacques-Cartier bridge multipurpose path], on the upstream side of the bridge, is closed at night during winter to cyclists and pedestrians. The de la Concorde bridge bike path, however, is open all year long. Starting in the fall of 2023, Bixi will operate its bike-share service all winter as part of a pilot, although only at a select number of stations, mostly in the denser inner-city boroughs. === By public transit === ==== By metro and bus ==== {{infobox|Fanfare for Copland|The sounds produced by electrical equipment when a Montreal Metro train is departing are the first three notes of ''Fanfare for the Common Man'' by Aaron Copland, although this is really just a coincidence.}} [[File:Montrealmetromap.svg|thumb|250px|Map of Metro stations]] [[File:MontrealMetroTires.JPG|thumb|250px|Montreal Metro train at Place-des-Arts station]] {{Listing|name=Société de transport de Montréal|alt=STM|url=https://www.stm.info/en|phone=+1-514 786-4636|lastedit=2024-01-27}} STM is safe, efficient, and is overall pleasant to use. Tickets have been replaced by cards with magnetic stripe containing one trip, called an ''à la carte'' ticket. These are valid for one trip (including unlimited transfers in the same way for 120 min) on the metro and buses, costing $3.75 each (exact fare in coins is required on the buses but not on the metro) but are also available for less when you purchase two for $6.00 or ten for $27.00 (OPUS card required) either from the metro agent or the automatic fare vending machine in metro stations. Signs and announcements are only in French, though ticket machines are bilingual in French and English. Many metro counter staff are also able to speak English. The Metro is entirely underground. Montreal metro stations and train cars do not have air conditioning. This means the Metro can sometimes get uncomfortably hot, in every season. It is, however, still the best transport option in the city. Only certain metro tickets are valid in [[Laval]] and [[Longueuil]]. You will need to buy an All Modes AB ticket for $4.50. A full listing of all types of tickets and their validity can be found [https://www.artm.quebec/en/fares here.] You must keep your payment card as it is your transfer and your proof of payment (''correspondance''); fare inspectors may give you a large fine if you are unable to show it when they request it. If you are using cash to pay your fare on the bus, it is important to have the exact fare, since the driver does not give change. Transfers are not provided when paying in cash. Tourist passes offer unlimited travel on the bus and metro for periods of one day ($11) or three days ($21.25) and are well worth it to avoid fumbling for change, checking transfer times and restrictions, and worrying about getting off at the wrong stop and having to repay. There is also an option for unlimited evenings ($5.75), valid between 18:00 and 05:00 the next morning, which can be practical on a night out, since it's cheaper than buying a two-way ticket (which would cost $6). They are available for purchase at all metro stations (pay cash or use Canadian credit or debit cards only). Weekly ($29, valid for one calendar week running Monday through Sunday) and monthly ($94, valid by calendar month) passes are also available; unlike one day and three day passes, weekly and monthly passes must be loaded onto an OPUS card (see below) and are not available in paper ticket form. The OPUS card is a smart card with a chip that contains your fare and transfer information. The OPUS card can be purchased at all metro stations and transit fare points of sale. As of January 2017, the card costs $6. OPUS cards can be refilled at metro stations using the automated machines or at the ticket booth. At each metro station, directions are not indicated by compass directions, such as westbound or eastbound. Instead, trains go in the direction of a metro line's terminus. The ''green line'' runs from Angrignon in the west to Honoré-Beaugrand in the east. If you were to travel eastbound, for example, you would look for ''Honoré-Beaugrand'' on the platform. If you were to travel westbound, you would look for ''Angrignon''. There are four interchange stations at which commuters can change subway lines without extra charge: Snowdon (blue/orange), Lionel-Groulx (orange/green), Berri-UQAM (green/yellow/orange), and Jean-Talon (orange/blue). Bicycles are permitted aboard metro trains outside of the rush hours such as: before 7:00, from 9:30 to 15:30 and from 18:00 to end of service on weekdays and all day Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays. Bikes are only allowed in all cars of the train but are asked to not use the lead car, up to a maximum of 2 per car. STM staff may deny bikes aboard the metro for safety reasons such as special events that might generate a high level of ridership. Lists of such events are posted on the STM website and at the entrances to metro. During festival season in Montreal, bikes are sometimes restricted. Bike riding inside stations or the Underground City is strictly prohibited. ==== By train ==== {{listing | name=Exo | alt= | url=https://exo.quebec/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-833-255-6396 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Exo (public transit) | wikidata=Q392496 | lastedit=2022-05-24 | content=Operates commuter trains in the Montreal area. }} Most trains terminate at Montreal Central Station (Gare Central) and at Lucien-L'Allier (both are accessible from the metro). Commuter trains are handy for getting to suburbs and neighbouring towns. Routes include: * Line 11 - Vaudreuil–Hudson between Montreal and [[Hudson (Quebec)|Hudson]] including [[Montreal/West Island|Montreal-Ouest]] and [[Vaudreuil-Dorion]]. Service is available daily, though almost all trips are between Montreal and Vaudreil. The only trips to or from Hudson are from Monday to Friday with 2 morning trips from Hudson and 2 afternoon trips to Hudson. * Line 12 - Saint-Jérôme between Montreal and [[Saint-Jérôme]] including stops in [[Laval]], [[Blainville]], and Mirabel. Service is available daily, though on Saturdays and Sundays, the service only travels between De la Concorde and Saint-Jérôme. Transfers from Montreal's Metro are available at Montreal's Lucien-L'Allier station (weekday rush hours and evenings only), Vendôme station (weekday rush hours and evenings only) and Parc station (weekdays only), and Laval's De la Concorde station (every day). * Three other exo lines operate, but only Monday to Friday. Commuter train stations are divided into three zones that radiate out from downtown. Stations have automated machines from which you must purchase a ticket appropriate to the zones of the station you are traveling to or from, whichever is farther (for example, a trip from Zone A to Zone B or vice versa would require a All Modes AB ticket). A pre-purchased ticket card (L'occasionelle) must be validated at the card scanners at the entrance to the platform. In general, reduced fares (for students and seniors) require ID that is not available to travellers, but if you are staying in the area, ask an employee for more details as the rules are complicated, but you can get good savings. There are no ticket machines on the train and ticket inspections are random. Incorrect tickets sometimes go unnoticed because inspectors check only occasionally. However, it is best to avoid taking chances as if the ticket is not valid, the customer can get a fine of $400. The ticket machines should now all be bilingual in English and French. The two downtown stations have staffed ticket booths Monday to Friday, but not in the evenings. Other stations may also have booths but generally only during either the morning or afternoon rush hour. ===By taxi=== * {{Listing|name=Taxi MonTaxi|url=https://montaxi.ca|phone=+1 514-322-1322|hours=24/7|lastedit=2024-02-27|content=Professional Taxi Service in Montréal}} * {{Listing|name=Taxi Bonjour Montreal|url=https://bonjour.taxi/en/|phone=+1 514-366-3333|lastedit=2022-07-31}} * {{Listing|name=Taxi Champlain|url=https://taxichamplain.com/index-en|phone=+1 514-271-1111|lastedit=2022-07-31}} * {{listing | name=Taxi Co-op | alt= | url=https://www.taxi-coop.com/en | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 514-725-9885 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-31 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Taxi Diamond Montreal | alt= | url=https://taxidiamond.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+ 514-836-0000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-31 | content= }} === By ride hailing === * {{Listing|name=Uber|url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/montreal/|lastedit=2022-07-31}} ===Map=== MapArt produces an excellent map in book-form of downtown Montreal and environs, including Vieux Montréal, Mount Royal, the Plateau, and areas as far north as the University of Montreal and as far south as Parc Jean-Drapeau. That form is handy as you can avoid always folding a map of the whole island. Below is a basic map of the primary areas of interest to visitors. [[File:central montreal map.png|right|350px]] ==See== [[File:Marché Bonsecours and Foliage.jpg|thumb|The dome of the Marché Bonsecours in Old Montréal]] === Architecture === Many notable historical buildings and churches are located in Montreal, the vast majority of which are in [[Montreal/Old City#See|old Montréal]]. Most of these date from the 17th to the 19th century, showcasing the variety of architectural styles seen in these periods. At night, several of the buildings are beautifully illuminated, seemingly glowing from within. A Tourist Welcome Office brochure from Bonjour Québec lays out a walking map. It is worthwhile to follow the map twice, once during the day, and again at night. * Of the four Roman Catholic Basilicas in Montreal, the '''Notre-Dame Basilica''' (Basilique de Notre-Dame) at Place d'Armes is undoubtedly the most famous church in Montreal. This architectural marvel is known throughout the world for its lavishly decorated and colourful interior. This basilica, splendidly exemplifying the Gothic Revival style, is an extremely popular tourist attraction. * Although rather small and not a basilica, another notable church located in Old Montreal is the '''Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel''' (Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours) near the Bonsecours Market, the first church to be founded in Montreal. It is known for its maritime theme and beautiful frescoes on the inside walls and ceilings. * [[Montreal/Downtown|Downtown Montreal]] houses Saint Joseph's Oratory (Oratoire Saint-Joseph), the largest church in Canada. Stylistically based on elements of the Italian Renaissance, it features the third highest dome in the world, and acts as the highest point in all of [[Montreal/Downtown|Montreal]]. * [[Montreal/Downtown|Downtown Montreal]] is also home to the opulent Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral (Cathédrale Marie-Reine-du-Monde), a National Historic Site of Canada modeled on St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and Saint Patrick's Basilica (Basilique Saint-Patrick), which was built to serve Montreal's Anglophone Catholic community. * Aside from churches, a main architectural feature of downtown is '''[https://www.habitat67.com/en/ Habitat 67]''', a residential complex built from interlocking modular forms, giving a result that somewhat resembles a pile of Lego bricks. It is the only intact pavilion remaining from Expo 67 and is known around the world as an excellent example of post-modern and minimalist architecture. Its conception has had an incalculable impact on later development of modular homes. Located at Cité-du-Havre, near the Old Port (Vieux-Port). Guided tours are available; tickets must be booked online in advance. Adults $50; children under 12 free. === Landmarks === * [[Montreal/Plateau#See|Le Plateau]] combines scenic residential streets with hip shopping and dining. * '''Vieux-Port''' (Old Port), is located south of rue Saint-Antoine between rue McGill and rue Berri (metro Champ-de-Mars or Place-d'Armes). The Old Port is a large waterfront green space with attractions such as Cirque du Soleil, the Montreal Science Center, the Labyrinth, the Clock Tower, and a large outdoor audio-visual stage which is the site for the Canada Day fireworks. It is a vibrant place to visit during the day and the evening. ☏ +1 514-496-7678, toll-free: +1 800-971-7678, information@oldportofmontreal.com. 6AM-Midnight. * [[Montreal/Downtown#See|Downtown]] Montreal has skyscrapers, the enormous McGill university campus, churches, and museums. Several blocks are connected by the famed 30 km of underground arcades and malls, allowing comfortable walking and shopping when the weather is foul. * [[Montreal/Parc Jean-Drapeau|Parc Jean-Drapeau]], site of the 1967 World Fair, now devoted to green spaces and a large outdoor concert venue. The Gilles-Villeneuve racing circuit, home of the Montreal Formula 1 Grand Prix. An artificial beach, a huge outdoor pool complex, and the Montreal Casino are also in or around the park. * A few kilometres to the north, [[Montreal/Hochelaga-Maisonneuve#See|Hochelaga-Maisonneuve]] offers the '''Olympic Stadium''', the '''Insectarium''', the '''Jardin Botanique''', and the '''Biodôme'''. This diverse range of activities and environments offer something for all ages. When planning a trip, allow four hours to see all four. === Museums === Montreal contains a wide variety of museums - over 50 in total, both well known and hidden gems. Both types are well worth visiting, and will provide a worthwhile experience. * Featuring dozens of exhibitions and over 44,000 works spread over 5 enormous pavilions, the '''[https://www.mbam.qc.ca/en/ Montreal Museum of Fine Arts]''' (Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal), in [[Montreal/Downtown|Downtown]], is the largest museum in Canada, and one of the largest in the world. Having many prominent travelling exhibits, it is both the oldest and most visited museum in Canada, and as such, is a wonderful experience. * The [https://www.cca.qc.ca/en/ '''Canadian Centre for Architecture'''], also known as the CCA, is a research center and museum providing Montrealers, tourists and researchers alike a great place to visit and learn about structures and spaces that surrounds up. To learn more about upcoming exhibits, check out the [https://www.cca.qc.ca/en/calendar/ calendar]. [[File:"Phonographs and gramophones in the musée des ondes Emile Berliner.jpg".jpg|thumb|Phonographs and gramophones in the permanent exhibit of the Musée des ondes Emile Berliner ]] * A hidden gem in the old RCA Victor factory complex in St-Henri, the '''Musée des ondes Emile Berliner''', in [[Montreal/South_West|Saint-Henri]], is a science and history museum dedicated to communicating the heritage of the audio industry in Canada and the world. In line with this, it pays tribute to Emile Berliner, the inventor of the gramophone, and his descendants’ contributions to the evolution of sound recording. Moreover, the museum looks at the roles and noteworthy contributions of Canadian companies in the 19th and 20th centuries, highlighting the role of Montreal companies and RCA Victor in the creation of satellites and the Canadarm. This makes it a worthwhile experience for those interested in science and technology, as well as Canadian history. * The '''[https://www.mcgill.ca/redpath/ Redpath Museum]''' (Musée Redpath), is located [[Montreal/Downtown|Downtown]] at the heart of the McGill University campus, is a fascinating museum of natural history. Open Tu-Sa. * The '''McCord Museum''' (Musée McCord), in [[Montreal/Downtown|Downtown]], is a museum dedicated to exploring Canadian history. ==Do== In [[Montreal/Parc Jean-Drapeau]], you will find the '''Casino de Montréal''' and the '''La Ronde''', a Six Flags family amusement park. ===Cross-country skiing=== During the winter, many parks offer the possibility to do cross-country skiing with groomed paths, including '''Parc regional de l'Ile-de-la-Visitation''' (ski rental available), '''Parc du Mont-Royal''' (ski rental available and usually the best ski conditions, and '''Parc Maisonneuve and Jardin Botanique''' (no ski rental). ===Ice skating=== There is year-round ice-skating at 1000, rue De La Gauchetière (metro Bonaventure). There is free skating at Lac aux Castors Beaver Lake in the Parc Mont-Royal, in the connected ponds of Lafontaine Park in Plateau Mont-Royal, and in the Vieux-Port in front of the Bonsecours Market and many parks. {{infobox|Montreal Island's Grands Parcs|The greater Montreal area offers large parks for year-round outdoor recreation. The most accessible are Parc du Mont Royal and Parc Lafontaine in the [[Montreal/Plateau|Plateau]], [[Montreal/Parc Jean-Drapeau|Parc Jean-Drapeau]] offers the closest beach park, and Parc Maisonneuve, next to the Olympic Sports complex and Botanical Gardens. Further afield, Parc des Rapids and Parc Angrignon are in [[Montreal/Le Sud-Ouest|Le Sud-Ouest]] and Parc René-Lévesque further West, with miles of bike paths and access to river surfing.}} ===Water sports=== *'''River surfing''' — Although the Saint Lawrence River is frozen nearly solid for four to five months out of the year, the waterway has become a magnet for aficionados of this new sport. Unlike their oceanic brethren, river surfers ride the standing waves in fresh waterways. The Saint Lawrence has two main hot spots for the sport: Habitat 67 is close to the bridge between Montreal and Île des Soeurs, the site of the 1967 Expo and the Montreal Casino. (This wave is also known as Expo 67.) The Surf 66 Boardshop at the 1952 rue Cabot offers lessons. *'''Kayaking''' — Just off the shore of the park in Lasalle are the Lachine Rapids. Huge waves, fast water, and loads of fun for kayaks. Lessons are available on site in the huge eddy formed by the peninsula. Annual surf (rodeo) competitions at "Big Joe" (still called "Beneath the Wheel" by old schoolers). Other famous play waves on this set of rapids on the St. Lawrence river are, Istambul and Constantinople, Pyramid, Slice and Dice, Black and Decker, and HMF on the other side of the islands. For those seeking less of an adrenaline rush, there is always the Bunny Wave (La Vague a Guy) upstream near the bike path at Park Rene Lesvesque. Rafting these same rapids is also a fun option. ===Bike=== A map of the cycle path network is available from [https://www.velo.qc.ca/en/toolkits/greater-montreal-bikeway-map/ Vélo Québec]. Particularly pleasant places to cycle and skate include: *'''Parc Maisonneuve''' — A large park with smooth paths. *'''Parc Jean-Drapeau''' — Particularly the Île Notre-Dame on the Formula One race track: a fantastic view across the water to downtown Montreal. *'''Lachine Canal''' — Bike paths west of the Old Port. *'''Rivière-des-Prairies''' — You can ride across Montreal Island from west to east along the river on the north of Montreal. Many sites have incredible views. A stop at Perry Island is a must. ===Parks=== *'''Square Saint-Louis''', corner of rue Saint-Denis and rue Prince-Arthur, slightly north of rue Sherbrooke (metro Sherbrooke). A charming little park with majestic trees and a lovely fountain, lined with charming houses on three sides (the Institute of Hotel Techniques of Quebec hotel school is the fourth side). This was the site of the first water reservoir in Montreal. *'''Parc Jean Drapeau''' — The former Expo 67 fairgrounds, Parc Jean Drapeau is spread across two islands (Ile Ste-Helene and Ile Notre Dame) in the Saint Lawrence River. On Sundays in the summer, join thousands of Montrealers revelling in the sunshine and music outdoors at Piknik Électronique. People enjoy riding a bicycle around the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve race track on Île Notre Dame. La Ronde and the Montreal Biosphere are here. (metro Parc Jean Drapeau) *'''Parc Lafontaine''', from avenue Papineau to avenue du Parc Lafontaine and from rue Rachel to rue Sherbrooke. Ice skating on the lake in the winter, baseball, boules, and outdoor theatre in the summer. (metro Sherbrooke) [[File:Fall colours at Beaver Lake.jpg|alt=|thumb|400x400px|Fall colours at Beaver Lake, Parc du Mont-Royal<br />]] * {{do | name=Parc Maisonneuve and Jardin Botanique de Montreal | alt= | url=http://www2.ville.montreal.qc.ca/jardin/jardin.htm | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=from rue Sherbrooke to boulevard Rosemont and from boulevard Pie-IX to avenue Viau (metro Pie-IX or Viau) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Jardin Botanique is one of the largest botanical gardens in the world and features the First Nations Garden, the Insectarium, the Tree House, and 16 different themed gardens and greenhouses. }} * {{do | name=Parc du Mont-Royal | alt= | url= | email=info@lemontroyal.qc.ca | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 514-843-8240 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=North of avenue des Pins, between avenue du Parc and chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges. This beautiful, immense urban park tops the "mountain" (at {{m|232}}, it's more like a hill) that overlooks all of Montreal and lends the city its name. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, creator of Central Park and Prospect Park in New York, the park is elegant and accessible, and has hundreds of nooks and crannies to explore. A broad and gradual 8-km (5-mile) bike and pedestrian path begins at the Monument Georges-Étienne Cartier (on Avenue du Parc, opposite the western end of rue Rachel, where the bike path continues), winding its way around the mountain and culminating at the Belvédère (lookout) and Chalet Mont-Royal, with incredible views of downtown, the St. Lawrence river, and the Eastern Townships. The Belevedere and Chalet are also accessible from downtown by the newly restored staircase, access via the path at the top of rue Peel. Many smaller paths and trails crisscross the park. For lazy visitors, or those with limited mobility, you can enjoy a wonderful view from the mountain by taking bus route 11, which stops at the lookout on Chemin Remembrance, and at Beaver Lake. Every Sunday during the summer, thousands of people get together at the monument on Avenue du Parc to enjoy the big tam-tam jam. }} *'''Parc Jeanne-Mance''', bordered by avenue du Parc, avenue Duluth (with a small extension south as far as avenue des Pins), rue de l'Esplanade and avenue Mont-Royal, directly across from Parc du Mont-Royal. Includes tennis courts, baseball/softball diamonds, a soccer/football pitch, beach volleyball courts, a skating rink in winter. Also a very popular dog-walking venue. * {{do | name=Parc de l'Ile-de-la-Visitation | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 514 280-6733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Rue d'Iberville and boulevard Gouin, (metro Henri-Bourassa, Bus 69 east). This regional park is along the Rivière-des-Prairies. Quiet and enjoyable place to bring a lunch and relax for an afternoon. Good starting point for a cycling tour along the river. }} * '''Parc Daisy Peterson Sweeney''', near Marché Atwater ( an incredible year-round market filled with indoor merchants specializing in fresh meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, flowers and baked goods.) and the Lachine Canal ( a beautiful canal with a bike path and several parcs along side it), is one of the [https://chessseed.com/blogs/news/best-places-to-play-chess-in-montreal-ultimate-guide best places to visit to play chess] during the summer. On Tuesdays 4pm to 8pm, Saturdays 11am to 5pm and Sundays 11am to 5pm there are chess games organized by the city where people of all ages like to gather for free! ===Festivals=== Montreal has a bewildering variety of festivals, ranging from one-day ethnic fairs to huge international productions running two weeks or more. They are generally held in the summer and autumn, though increasingly they can be found throughout the year. Here are some of the larger ones: * {{do | name=Just For Laughs Festival | alt= | url=http://www.hahaha.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Comedy festival with three main components: indoor paid shows (usually stand-up, but not always), free street theatre/comedy, and a mini film festival called Comedia. July. }} * {{do | name=Shakespeare-in-the-Park | alt= | url=http://www.repercussiontheatre.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=During the summer in parks around Montreal, Repercussion Theatre puts on outdoor performances of Shakespeare plays free of charge. }} *{{do | name=Festival du Monde Arabe | url=| email= | address= | lat=| long= | directions=| phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= In November, an annual festival celebrating the music and culture of the Arab world takes place in Montreal. Many Arab performers, traditional and modern, take the stage. }} * {{do | name=Festival Mondiale de la bière | alt= | url=https://festivalmondialbiere.qc.ca/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Annually, in June: several days of tasting beers, ciders, and other beverages from all over Quebec, Canada and further afield. The event typically offers over 500 different beverages, from over 70 brewers, from many countries. There is no admission fee, and samples typically sell for 2-8 tickets ($1 a ticket) for a 150-200 ml sample. There are also musical performances and food kiosks. The festival can get very busy at peak times (Friday and Saturday evening of the event), so it is advisable to arrive early to avoid possible long queues. }} * {{do | name=Montréal en lumière | alt= | url=http://www.montrealenlumiere.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A relatively new wintertime affair, attempting to transplant the city's festival magic to the cold season. Includes three main categories of activities: food and wine, performing arts, and free activities both indoor and outdoor. February. }} * {{do | name=Montreal International Fireworks Competition | alt= | url= | email=info@internationaldesfeuxloto-quebec.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 514-397-2000 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=In La Ronde amusement park (in Parc Jean-Drapeau). This fantastic festival features full-length fireworks displays, accompanied by orchestral music, by national teams from about a dozen countries around the world. Although the hot seats are inside the La Ronde theme park, the fireworks are visible from pretty much any clear space or rooftop in the centre of the city. Pedestrians can watch from Jacques Cartier Bridge, which is closed from 20:00 on fireworks nights. Another good spot is the promenade west of the Old Port. $35–45 (''seats in La Ronde, free everywhere else''). Saturdays 22:00 from mid-June to late July, and Wednesdays 22:00 from mid-July on. }} * {{do | name=Fete de St-Jean-Baptiste | url=| email= | address= | lat=| long= | directions=| phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= June 24 is Quebec's national holiday (''Fête nationale''). During the evening, a huge show takes place at Maisonneuve park. This is the show to go to hear made-in-Quebec music. Free. Street parties can also be found all over the city. }} * {{do | name=International Festival of Film on Art | alt= | url=http://www.artfifa.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3070809 | content=Devoted to the promotion and presentation of the finest productions on art and media art. A ten-day competitive festival, it is the most important annual event of its kind in the world. FIFA has become a focal point for artists and artisans from the art and film communities, and for art and cinema enthusiasts. }} ====Music festivals==== [[File:FIJM 2017 014.jpg|thumb|250x250px|Festival International de Jazz de Montréal]] * {{do | name=Montreal International Jazz Festival | alt=Festival International de Jazz de Montréal | url=http://www.montrealjazzfest.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2022-10-22| content=The world's largest jazz festival, this festival is a major international event, attracting many big name artists. Many streets in downtown Montreal are closed off to traffic for two weeks and several concert stages are set up. There are many free outdoor shows and indoor concerts (paid). Late June - early July. }} * {{do | name=POP Montréal International Music Festival | alt= | url=http://www.popmontreal.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 514-842-1919 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A massive feast of up-and-coming bands in a variety of popular genres. In early fall, host to more than 80 events, more than 300 artists, a conference, and an arts fair. POP Montreal showcases emerging and innovative artists alongside rising international stars and is committed to encouraging vibrant indie communities. }} * {{do | name=Francofolies | alt= | url=http://www.francofolies.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Les Francos de Montréal | wikidata=Q3850493 | lastedit=2024-01-11 | content=A festival celebrating French-language music from around the world. Similarly to the jazz festival, many free outdoor concerts are offered in a section of downtown that is closed off to traffic for a week. Mid-June. }} * {{do | name=MUTEK | alt= | url=https://montreal.mutek.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=An annual gathering, held in Montreal. The MUTEK festival showcases emerging forms of electronic music and the latest trends in sound creation. }} * {{do | name=Heavy Montréal | alt= | url=http://www.heavymontreal.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A two-day heavy music festival taking place in [[Montreal/Parc Jean-Drapeau|Parc Jean-Drapeau]] on Île Sainte-Hélène. }} * {{do | name=Osheaga Music and Arts Festival | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | content=A three-day indie & alternative rock festival held annually in [[Montreal/Parc Jean-Drapeau|Parc Jean-Drapeau]] on Île Sainte-Hélène at the end of July/beginning of August. }} ====Film festivals==== * {{do | name=Fantasia | alt=Asian and fantasy | url=http://www.fantasiafestival.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=July. }} * {{do | name=Image + Nation | alt=Gay and lesbian | url=http://www.image-nation.org | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=November/December. }} * {{do | name=Festival du nouveau cinéma de Montréal | alt=new filmmakers, well-known auteurs, new media | url=http://www.nouveaucinema.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Festival du nouveau cinéma | wikidata=Q3070535 | content=October. }} * {{do | name=Cinémania | alt=French cinema with English subtitles | url=http://www.cinemaniafilmfestival.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cinemania (film festival) | wikidata=Q2972781 | content=November. }} * {{do | name=Les Rencontres internationales du documentaire de Montréal | alt=documentaries | url=https://ridm.ca/en | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Rencontres internationales du documentaire de Montréal | wikidata=Q3425197 | content=November. }} * {{do | name=Les Rendez-vous du cinéma québécois | alt=Quebec cinema | url=http://www.rvcq.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Rendez-vous du cinéma québécois | wikidata=Q3235139 | content=February. }} ===Sports to watch=== * '''[https://www.nhl.com/canadiens Canadiens]''', Ice hockey, Canada's national winter sport: Bell Centre (''Centre Bell''), 1260 rue De La Gauchetière (metro Lucien-L'Allier or Bonaventure). One of the greatest institutions in Quebec culture. If you want to see a game, it helps to know someone with tickets, as they generally sell out within minutes of going on sale. They are widely available through unofficial channels and scalpers, but be prepared to shell out as they don't come cheap! You can also get cheaper tickets if you're a resident of the HI youth hostel. You can also stay in front of the hostel and ask a resident to buy a ticket for you if you aren't staying at the hostel! * '''[http://www.montrealalouettes.com Alouettes]''', Football (Canadian Football League), Percival Molson Stadium (''Stade Percival-Molson''), avenue des Pins at University (playoffs: Olympic Stadium), . A dominant team in the last part of the 2000s, but now somewhat less so, the Als have won the Grey Cup four times since being reborn in 1996, including back-to-back in 2009 and 2010 and most recently in 2023. Molson Stadium is an excellent place to see a game; tickets can be hard to come by when the team is doing well. * '''[https://en.cfmontreal.com Club de Foot Montréal]''', Association football (soccer), Saputo Stadium (''Stade Saputo'') at 4750 Sherbrooke street East and Viau in the Olympic Park (metro Viau). Formerly known as '''Montreal Impact''', it is one of the newer teams in Major League Soccer, and the league's third team in Canada, joined MLS in 2012. The previous version of the Impact/CF Montréal was a consistent contender in several different leagues (including three in the last three seasons before the team joined MLS) at the U.S./Canada second level. CFM occasionally use nearby Olympic Stadium for matches that are expected to draw unusually large crowds or if the weather restricts outdoor play. * '''Tennis''' — Montreal hosts an ATP Tour Masters 1000 event (men) every odd-numbered year. In even-numbered years, Montreal hosts a WTA Premier 5 event (women). The tournaments are held at IGA Stadium (''Stade IGA'') in Parc Jarry in the North End. The main stadium is of special historic interest to baseball fans—part of its seating is the former backstop grandstand of the stadium that hosted the Montreal Expos (now the Washington Nationals) before they moved to Olympic Stadium. * '''[https://www.gpcanada.ca/ Canadian Grand Prix]:''' This [[Formula One]] race is staged at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve on Île Notre-Dame, with the next on 22-24 May 2026. * '''[https://www.thepwhl.com/en/teams/montreal-victoire Montréal Victoire]''' (''Victoire de Montréal''), women's ice hockey: Members of the Professional Women's Hockey League, the Victoire plays home games off-island at Place Bell in [[Laval]]. ==Learn== ===Language classes=== Montreal is a popular destination for language-immersion programs in French and English. Many schools arrange accommodations — either in dorms or with a family and provide cultural programs with trips around the city and beyond. Prices are usually higher for non-Québécois and higher-still for non-Canadians. Most are in Downtown and the Old City. Intensive, non-resident programs are also offered by the YMCA and Quebec government. ===Universities=== Montreal is home to one of Canada's oldest and most prestigious universities, '''[https://www.mcgill.ca/ McGill University]'''. McGill is consistently ranked as one of the top 20 universities in the world, but not each faculty. It is a university with a huge endowment fund. '''Concordia University''' is the city's other English-language university, the largest east of Toronto, and has over 40,000 students. Though Concordia lacks a medical school and law school, it still has a world class business school and its arts and sciences programs are top tier. Its student population is generally more multicultural than McGill's and the school's origins in and continuing emphasis on adult education make it popular for mature students, since it holds many graduate-level courses at night. Both universities are research focused. The '''Université du Québec à Montreal (UQAM)''' and the '''Université de Montréal''' cater mainly to Francophone students. The Université de Montréal is the second largest French-language university in the world, after the Sorbonne in [[Paris]] and is one of the largest research institutions in Canada. The Université de Montréal has two affiliated schools, Polytechnique Montréal (engineering), and HEC Montréal (business school) that offer undergraduate and graduate studies. '''Université Laval''', '''Université de [[Sherbrooke]]''', and '''Universté du Québec à [[Chicoutimi]]''', all Francophone, also have campuses in the Montreal area. Every university, with the exception of Laval, lends its name to a metro stop to indicate the university's approximate location. For example, the Guy-Concordia subway station, at the intersection of Rue Guy and boulevard de la Maisonneuve ouest, is no more than two minutes away from its namesake university (Concordia). ==Work== As Montreal is in the province of Quebec, which has its own immigration policies, those wishing to work in Montreal will have to go through two processes, once with the Quebec government, then with the Canadian government after the Quebec government has approved your application. If you are employed with a foreign company which has a Montreal office, you can seek a transfer. You can also seek a job with a Montreal employer and they can sponsor you for a temporary work visa. If you are a skilled worker (see CIC website) you can immigrate based on your own skills. French language ability is a requirement for most jobs, as businesses are required by provincial law to greet and serve clients in French. Jobs that do not require prior French language ability are mostly IT jobs, and academic jobs at Montreal's two Anglophone universities. The Quebec provincial government provides free French language courses for newly-arrived expatriates and immigrants who speak little to no French, and you are highly advised to sign up for one of these courses as soon as you arrive to aid your integration into society. The United States–Mexico–Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA) allows skilled U.S. and Mexican professionals to obtain a Canadian work visa provided they are qualified in certain professions. If you are a U.S. citizen aged 18–30 and a full-time student, you may qualify for a Canadian work visa valid for six months. Students from France, Britain, New Zealand, and Australia can also benefit from work programs. As well, if you obtain a degree from a Canadian university, you are eligible to remain in Montreal and work for up to one year. For anyone else, the [http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/index.asp Immigration Canada (CIC) website] explains a number of ways foreigners can legally work in Canada. Student jobs include babysitting, painting during the summer, and moving furniture in June. McGill and Montreal universities are always in search of research subjects and so are Montreal's many biotech firms. Montreal also has many call centres, which constantly seek to hire new employees and offer flexible working hours. ==Buy== [[File:Montreal DelicesdelErable.JPG|thumb|240px|Maple syrup in Old Montreal]] Although Montreal's economy has been booming, the city remains remarkably affordable compared to other major cities in Canada and the United States. Shopping in Montreal ranges from eclectic budget stores to high-end fashion, with a wide spectrum in between. ===General=== Rue Ste-Catherine, between rue Guy and boulevard St-Laurent, has many of the big department and chain stores as well as a few major malls. Avenue Mont-Royal has funky consignment and gothic clothing stores from boulevard St-Laurent to rue Saint-Denis and a mixed bag of neighbourhood stores, used record shops, and gentrified boutiques heading east towards avenue Papineau. Rue St-Viateur is one of the city's most interesting streets, with its amazingly varied range of businesses crammed into the short stretch between Boulevard St-Laurent and Avenue du Parc. St-Laurent remains one of the city's prime shopping streets, more or less along its whole length. Just about anything can be found there, with different blocks having different clusters of businesses (Asian groceries and housewares near de La Gauchetière, cheap electronics a little farther up, hip boutiques between Prince-Arthur and Mount Royal, anything and everything Italian between Saint-Zotique and Jean-Talon). Rue Sherbrooke ouest, west of the Autoroute Décarie, has an increasingly interesting concentration of largely food-oriented businesses. Jean-Talon market, near the intersection of Jean-Talon and St-Laurent, has a wide variety of local produce and food products (maple syrup, cheese, etc.) at very good prices. For electronic stuff, the largest chain store is BestBuy. You can also find many smaller ones on Boulevard St-Laurent (between Ontario and Sherbrooke). ===Budget=== * {{buy | name=Village des Valeurs | alt= | url=http://www.villagedesvaleurs.com/ | email= | address=2033 Pie IX | lat= | long= | directions=Métro Pie IX | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-08-12 | content=Second hand store providing montrealers with shops inside and outside of Montreal. }} * {{buy | name=Le coffre aux trésors "Chainon" | alt= | url=http://www.lechainon.org/en/ | email= | address=4375 Boulevard St Laurent | lat= | long= | directions=Métro Sherbrooke | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=L'Aubainerie Concept Mode | alt= | url=http://www.aubainerieconceptmode.com/ | email= | address=1490, av du Mont-Royal E | lat= | long= | directions=metro mont royal | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Friperie St. Laurent | alt= | url= | email= | address=Friperie St. Laurent | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 514-842-3893 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * Some military equipment shops around St-Laurent and Ste-Catherine. For trekking and outdoor, you also have many options * {{buy | name=MEC | alt= | url=http://www.mec.ca/ | email= | address=8989, boulevard de l'Acadie | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 514-788-5878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mountain Equipment Co-op is a co-operative with staff who know the stores merchandise well. }} * {{buy | name=La cordée | alt= | url=http://www.lacordee.com/ | email= | address=rue Ste-Catherine | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-08-12 | content=Great store to stock up on your favorite or some essential gear for your next outdoor activity. }} * {{buy | name=Kanuk | alt= | url=http://new.kanuk.com/ | email= | address=485 Rachel St E | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-08-12 | content=Kanuk are best known for their winter coats and parkas. }} ===Splurge=== Trendier boutiques can be found on rue Saint-Denis, north of rue Sherbrooke and south of avenue Mont-Royal est, and on rue Saint-Laurent (continuing as far north as Bernard). The latter is becoming more upscale, so the range of shopping is highly variable and lower in density as one goes north of Mont-Royal. Rue Sherbrooke has a number of high-end stores (notably Holt Renfrew) and commercial art galleries in a short strip running approximately from McGill University west to rue Guy. Farther west, Sherbrooke intersects with Greene Avenue in Westmount, which has a short, but luxurious retail strip. Avenue Laurier, between St-Laurent and its western end, is one of the city's prime spots for eating and shopping in high style, though there are still a few affordable spots here and there. ===Furniture and antiques=== On boul. St-Laurent, a cluster of high-end home furnishing stores. It starts roughly at the corner of rue Marie-Anne and is very prominent in the block between rue Marie-Anne and avenue Mont-Royal, with sparser, but still interesting stores as far north as rue Saint Viateur. Antique buffs will find interesting stores all over the city, but they'll want to make a special pilgrimage to rue Notre-Dame Ouest, when you head east from avenue Atwater. Rue Amherst, in the Gay Village, also has a significant concentration of antique dealers. ==Eat== [[File:Sign WingsNouilles.JPG|thumb|240px|Wing's Chinese Noodles, Chinatown]] Montreal is a culinary mecca and has a huge variety of food options, from diners and fast food to low-cost ethnic restaurants to ''haute cuisine''. The city was ranked 2nd best dining city in North America<!-- By whom?--> after San Francisco and ahead of New York. The large local Jewish population has contributed local specialties including huge smoked meat sandwiches (beef brisket) (Schwartz's is the most authentic smoked meat restaurant, though this title has been challenged by a gradual slip in quality in the early 2020s) and small, crusty bagels (the undisputed classic bagel places are St-Viateur's and Fairmount Bagels). Other specialties are "all-dressed" pizza (pepperoni, mushrooms and green peppers), pizza and spaghetti with smoked meat, and Québécois favourites like split pea soup and poutine. {{infobox|Poutine|[[File:Food Poutine Closeup.JPG|100px|right]] <br> No visit to Montreal is complete without at least one plate of poutine. This unique dish is a plate of french fries drowned in gravy and topped with chewy curds of white cheddar. There are variations on the theme — adding chicken, beef, vegetables, or sausage, or replacing the gravy with tomato sauce (''poutine italienne''). Every Montrealer has their favourite poutine restaurant where it says that you can get "the real stuff", but La Banquise, on the [[Montreal/Plateau#Eat|Plateau]] at 994 rue Rachel est, usually tops the list.}} Many Montreal restaurants are "apportez votre vin" (''bring your own wine''). This may sound like a hassle, but you end up paying much less for wine with dinner if you bring it yourself. There's usually a SAQ (government liquor store) or a ''dépanneur'' (convenience store, with a limited selection of typically inexpensive wine) nearby; ask your waiter where it is. Your waiter will open your wine for you; corkage fees are rare, but don't forget to factor this service into your tip so make sure to ask. If you are driving from the United States, you may find Canadian liquor prices quite frightening. Even the duty-free shops along the border are rarely cheaper than an American liquor store (although these are still cheaper than the SAQ). Visitors can bring in 40oz of hard alcohol, 1.5L of wine, or a 24-pack of beer. Separate bills (''la facture'' in French) are common and you may be asked ''ensemble ou séparément?'' (together or separately?) The standard tip for acceptable restaurant service is 15% and is not included. Never call a waiter "garçon"! Use "monsieur" or "madame". ===Montreal specialties=== There are several foods that are specialties of the city: *The Montreal-style bagel, where bagel worshippers flock to '''St-Viateur Bagel''' and '''Fairmount Bagel''', and pontificate about which is better. Both are within blocks of each other in the Plateau Mont-Royal district, on Saint-Viateur and Fairmount streets, respectively. *Montreal-style '''smoked meat''', a type of corned beef, distinct from other forms such as pastrami, is available at many restaurants, but by far the most highly esteemed is that available at '''Schwartz's''' on the Main (Boulevard Saint-Laurent) in the Plateau Mont-Royal district. Traditionally it's served as a sandwich, in heaping portions and slathered with mustard, but you'll also see it as a topping on pizza, poutine, hot dogs, or spaghetti, or even incorporated into Chinese-style egg rolls (a specialty of '''Chenoy's''', a local chain of delis). Other well-known local smoked meat restaurants include '''Main Deli Steak House''' (across the street from Schwartz's) and '''Lesters Deli''' (in Outremont). *Steamé (steamie), a steamed hotdog on steamed bun, with mustard, sauerkraut and onions. Some locations may replace sauerkraut with coleslaw. * Poutine is popular across Quebec (and Canada), and Montreal is a great place to sample this gooey mess of French fries, melted cheese curds, and beef gravy. ===Ethnic restaurants=== As Montreal has a very ethnically diverse population, it has various quality ethnic restaurants. *Indian: The Indian community in Montreal is around Parc metro station where many Indian restaurants can be found. An example is Bombay Mahal. *Portuguese: Around Little Portugal, near the intersection of Saint-Laurent and Rachel. *Persian: An Iranian cafe-resto is Byblos cafe. *Arabic *Haitian *Chinese: Mainly in Chinatown (near Place d'Armes metro), and near the Anglophone universities. *Japanese: A Japanese non-sushi restaurant is Kazu. ===Markets=== To buy your own food or regional products, the public market at Jean-Talon, 7075 avenue Casgrain (metro Jean-Talon or De Castelnau), is the place to go. Open daily 08:00-18:00, the market is especially noteworthy for its selection of produce. Even though they're not strictly part of the market, the many stores lining it on the north and south sides complete it wonderfully with superb selections of cheese, meat, and just about anything edible. The surrounding streets are heavily Italian-flavoured and have excellent grocery stores, butchers, bakeries, and restaurants. Across town, the Atwater Market is also superb, though quite different from (and much smaller than) Jean-Talon. Here, you'll find the city's best butchers, and good selections of cheese, fish, and produce. It is on avenue Atwater, just south of rue Notre-Dame Lionel-Groulx station ===Restaurants=== Montreal claims to have the most restaurants per capita in North America. With delis and bakeries and diners galore, Montreal offers great budget dining. Venues are scattered all over the city, but the largest concentration of restaurants is along boul Saint-Laurent, rue Saint-Denis and ave du Mont-Royal in the [[Montreal/Plateau|Plateau]]. Tasty and cheap ethnic food, lots of Indian buffets, can be found around the [[Montreal/Mile End|Jean-Talon market]]. Two Montreal classics, poutine and the smoked meat sandwich, can make a filling meal for under $20. Pizza by the slice can be had for a toonie ($2), and there's always the option of rolling your own picnic with fresh produce from Atwater Market or Jean-Talon Market. Several kosher restaurants can be found within a few blocks of each other on Queen Mary road not far from the Snowdon Métro station in and boul Décarie near Villa-Maria-des-Neiges in [[Montreal/Côte-des-Neiges|Côte-des-Neiges]]. The other greatest concentration of kosher food in along Bernard in [[Montreal/Outremont|Outremont]]. Smoked-meat and sausage poutine aside, Montreal is vegetarian-friendly with several veggie and vegan restaurants and veggie options on most menus. Montreal has excellent ice cream parlours, many of which make their own ice cream. There are also restaurants dedicated to desserts. ===Restaurant chains=== Local restaurant chains that travellers might not be familiar with, with various locations throughout the city, include: *{{eat | name=Brasserie La Cage | alt= | url=https://www.cage.ca/en/home | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Sports bar and grill. Great place to watch Montreal Canadiens hockey games, the atmosphere gets crazy during the NHL playoffs! }} *{{eat | name=Les Trois Brasseurs | alt=The Three Brewers | url=http://les3brasseurs.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Microbrewery with a pub-style menu and a European flair. }} * {{eat | name=Juliette et chocolat | url=http://www.julietteetchocolat.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialised in chocolate desserts and famed for its very rich drinking chocolate. }} * {{eat | name=Rockaberry | url=http://www.rockaberry.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Enormous portions of cakes, pies, crumbles and brownies. }} * {{eat | name=Copper Branch | url=http://www.copperbranch.ca/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Vegan chain serving sandwiches, wraps, soups and some desserts. }} ===Alternate=== If you are really on budget, there are a few community restaurants (like [http://www.chicrestopop.com/restaurant-communautaire/ Chicrestopop]) which serve very cheap meals. Usually these locations are reserved for the homeless. If you are staying in Montreal, there are several collective cooking locations where a group of people cook larger portions to freeze and stock for worker's lunch breaks. ==Drink== The legal age to purchase alcohol in Quebec is 18 and the Québécois are now much more rigid in enforcing this age limit. All retail alcohol sales stop at 23:00 and bars and clubs stop serving at 03:00. Quality wine and liquor (but only a small selection of imported beers) can only be purchased at SAQ shops, most of which are open until 18:00 Sunday to Wednesdays and 20:00 or 21:00 on other days; the smaller SAQ Express outlets are open daily from 11:00 to 22:00. Beer and a small selection of lower-quality wine are also sold at convenience stores (dépanneurs) and grocery stores. Some supermarkets have partnered with the SAQ to offer a few selection bottles, so if you are caught outside business hours or are in a hurry, places like ''IGA Extra'' and ''Métro'' generally offer a better variety of wine than the local ''dépanneur''. The selection of beer to be found in grocery stores and even the humble corner store have exploded in the last decade in and around greater Montreal. Two micro-breweries in particular are world-class: ''McAuslan'' (brands include St-Ambroise and Griffon) and ''Unibroue'' (Belgian-style ales such as Blanche de Chambly, Maudite, La Fin du Monde, and simpler, more affordable U lagers). ''Boréale'' makes a good, if unspectacular range of brews, while ''Rickard's'' and ''Alexander Keith's'' domestics are gaining popularity among locals. Most stores also sell a few major imports such as Stella Artois, Sapporo, Guinness, Leffe and of course, Heineken. ===Bars=== Montreal has three main strips for bar-hopping. Rue Crescent, in the western part of [[Montreal/Downtown|downtown]], caters mostly to Anglophones and tourists. It tends to be trendy and expensive. On the edge of the bar-heavy [[Montreal/Plateau|Plateau]], Boulevard Saint-Laurent gets extremely busy when McGill and Concordia students are back in town for a new session. Between rue Sherbrooke and avenue des Pins you'll find trendy clubs and bars with more of a Francophone clientele. Farther up St-Laurent, it's relatively downscale and linguistically mixed. Rue Saint-Denis, between rue Sherbrooke and de Maisonneuve, is the strip with the strongest Francophone feel. There are also many good bars away from the main strips, like on Avenue Mont-Royal, and even nowadays on Rue Masson et Rue Ontario in the eastern part of town. You should never have to line up to go have a drink, because there's virtually an unlimited choice. Depending on the day of the week, the best events vary. For example, on Tuesday you should go to Les Foufounes Électriques for cheap beer and a unique experience in a Montréal institution. ===Dance clubs=== Dance clubs can be found all over the [[Montreal/Downtown#Dance clubs|downtown]] area, with hotspots on boulevard Saint-Laurent and rue Crescent. Check out the [[Montreal/Plateau#Dance clubs|Plateau]], too. ===After-hours clubs=== After-hours clubs, for those who aren't tired out by 03:00, are open to 10:00. They do not, by law, serve alcohol at this time. '''Stereo''', in [[Montreal/Quartier Latin-Le Village#After hours|Quartier Latin]], was once voted #5 of the top 10 clubs in the world by ''Muzik'' magazine. '''Circus''' , also in the Quartier Latin, is a luxuriously decorated after-hour in Montreal. ===Karaoke=== There are a couple of Karaoke places [[Montreal/Downtown#Karaoke|Downtown]]. ===Gay and lesbian=== Montreal has as many gay and lesbian bars as San Francisco. Every October on Canadian Thanksgiving (Columbus Day in the U.S.) hosts the "Black and Blue" circuit party, attracting thousands to enjoy the thrill of harder dance music and hordes of pretty, shirtless men. Most popular gay bars can be found in the city's [[Montreal/Gay Village|Gay Village]], on the eastern stretch of Ste-Catherine and easily accessible by the Beaudry metro, between Amherst and Papineau. '''Unity''', '''Apollon''', and '''Sky''' are the dance club favourites, while Cabaret Mado offers excellent drag performances. There are also pubs, male strippers, restaurants, saunas, and karaoke in the area. The four main stripper bars are '''Stock''', '''Campus''', '''Taboo''', and '''Adonis'''. The most popular sauna is '''Oasis'''. ==Sleep== For the budget traveller, Montreal offers youth hostels with dorms or private rooms and budget bed and breakfasts (sometimes with very skimpy breakfasts). The densest collection of budget hotels are in the [[Montreal/Quartier Latin-Le Village#Sleep|Latin Quarter]], in the streets east of Berri-UQAM metro and the intercity bus station. [[Montreal/Old Montreal#Sleep|Old Montreal]] has a couple of quality hostels, but you'll pay more to be there. Montreal is also the city with the most [[hospitality exchange|Couch Surfing]] members, so it is easy to find a hospitable local host for a few nights. As with most major Canadian cities, another option is to stay at a hostel or hotel in an adjacent suburb; [[Laval]] and [[Longueuil]] are good choices for these due to their connection to the city's subway network. Mid-range options include [[Montreal/Downtown|Downtown]] chain hotels to "gîtes", guest houses that range from a single room in an apartment to elegant historic homes with three to five rooms. Gîtes are usually found in the more residential neighbourhoods like the [[Montreal/Plateau|Plateau]]. On the upper-end, four and five-star luxury and boutique hotels are mostly concentrated in [[Montreal/Old Montreal|Old Montreal]] and [[Montreal/Downtown|Downtown]]. Montreal is home to four major universities and numerous smaller schools. Students routinely sublet apartments in the summer months. ==Connect== ===Phone=== Montreal has four area codes: the long-standing 514, the newer 438, 450 and 579 for surrounding, off-island areas. The area code must be used for all calls: even if it's the same one you're calling from and even if calling next door. For example, calling a 514 number from within 514, use "[tel:514-123-4567 514-123-4567]". Dialling the same number long-distance would be [tel:1-514-123-4567 1-514-123-4567]. ===Internet=== Montreal's free public Wi-Fi network, "[https://montreal.ca/en/programs/mtlwifi MTLWiFi]" is available at over 800 locations, such as public buildings, libraries, busy streets, and open areas. In the downtown, nearly every major intersection has a hotspot. The Grande Bibliothèque (Great Library) has many free Internet terminals, which require a library card (free to Québec residents with proof of address). Montreal library branches also provide computer access; non-residents pay a fee for a library card which provides access. Photocopy shops often have internet terminals available, as do many cafés and some bookstores. There are also long-standing cyber/internet cafés (minus the café part) such as ''Battelnet 24'' at many locations in Montreal including one at mezzanine level in the rue Guy entrance of Guy-Concordia metro. ===Mail=== Red Canada Post mailboxes are found along most main streets. Post offices are often inside pharmacies: look for the Canada Post logo. ==Stay safe== For emergencies call '''9-1-1'''. Although Montreal is Canada's second largest city, it shares Canada's low violent crime rates making it relatively safe. However, property crimes, including car theft, are remarkably high: make sure to lock your doors and keep your valuables with you. Take extra care if you want to visit Montréal-Nord or Saint-Michel. These neighbourhoods are the worst of the city and shootings are not unheard of in these areas. There is, however, little for tourists to do and they are unlikely to enter by accident. Part of Montreal's Sainte-Catherine downtown corridor is arguably where crime is common in the city, especially east of Place des Arts. There are homeless people panhandling during the summer and fall. Although most of them are polite, there are some that are more aggressive. Avoid individuals wandering on the streets that appear intoxicated. The street is at its most dangerous around 03:00 when closing clubs and bars empty their drunken crowds into the street. You may also come across occasional pockets of street prostitution, especially around strip clubs. In Montreal, [[pickpockets]] are not very common, but keep an eye on things when watching street performances in the Old City or in other crowds. If you are concerned about safety on the metro, use the first metro car where the driver is. Emergency intercoms are on every metro car. Emergency phone booths are on every platform throughout the metro system, which is generally safe. While written instructions are in both English and French, most announcements (usually about delays) are in French only so if you think you heard something in the announcement that may affect you, just try asking a fellow passenger for a translation. The STM offers a "between stops" (''entre deux arrêts'') service that allows women travelling alone at night to get off the bus between two regularly designated stops if the bus driver feels they can stop the bus safely. Pedestrians and bike-riders should be especially careful. Crosswalks are rarely respected. Motorists have a general contempt for pedestrians, especially when they are trying to make a right turn at an intersection. Wasps are a considerable menace during the height of summer. Consider carrying vinegar with you in case of stings to help neutralize the sting. Otherwise, see below if you are allergic for the nearest hospital. ===Weather=== Montreal is often icy and cold in winter, be careful by dressing appropriately for the conditions and be mindful of ice or snow anytime you are driving or walking. Street clearing of snow is generally effective. Summers are warm to hot and can be quite humid. Being surrounded by rivers adds to this effect. ===Hospital=== The closest hospital to Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport is the Lakeshore General Hospital at 160 avenue Stillview in Pointe-Claire. ([tel:+1&#x20;514-630-2225 +1 514-630-2225]) The Montreal General Hospital is at 1650 avenue Cedar. ([tel:+1&#x20;514-934-1934 +1 514-934-1934]) The McGill University Hospital (Glen site) ([https://muhc.ca/ MUHC]) is at 1001 Decarie Boulevard ([tel:+1-514&#x20;934-1934 +1-514 934-1934]). The [https://www.jgh.ca/ Jewish General Hospital] is at 3755 rue Côte Ste-Catherine. ([tel:+1&#x20;514-340-8222 +1 514-340-8222]) If you do not have Quebec Health Insurance, be prepared to pay by credit card at the door as it does not accept traveller's insurance (but you may be reimbursed when you return home). Several hospitals offer service in French and English. ==Cope== ===Consulates=== * {{flag|Egypt}} {{listing | name=Egypt | url=http://www.mfa.gov.eg/english/embassies/Egyptian_Consulate_Canada/Pages/default.aspx | email=egypt.consulate@videotron.ca | address=1000 De La Gauchetiere Ouest | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 514-866-8455 | tollfree= | fax=+1 514-866-0835 | hours=09:00-15:30| price= | content= }} * {{flag|Greece}} {{listing | name=Greece | url=http://www.grconsulatemtl.net | email=info@grconsulatemtl.net | address=1170 Place du Frere Andre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 514-875-2119 | tollfree= | fax=+1 514-875-8781 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Romania}} {{listing | name=Romania | url=http://montreal.mae.ro/ | email=montreal.cg@mae.ro | address=să: 1010 rue Sherbrooke Ouest, bureau 610, etaj 6, H3A 2R7 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 514-876-1792, +1 514-876-1095 | tollfree= | fax=+1 514-876-1797 | hours= | price= | content=General consulate }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | alt= | url=https://ca.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/montreal/ | email=Montreal-ACS@state.gov | address=1155 rue Saint-Alexandre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 514-398-9695 | tollfree=+1-844-277-8805 | fax=+1 514-398-0973 | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Newspapers=== ''[https://montrealgazette.com/ The Gazette]'' is the city's English-language daily. If you have some French, hit the [http://www.voir.ca voir.ca] website for good restaurant reviews and an overview of what is happening. ==Respect== {{See also|Quebec#Talk|Quebec#Respect|French phrasebook}} As in the rest of [[Quebec]], language politics and Quebec sovereignty are contentious issues in Montreal. Don't make the assumption that all French Canadians are in favour of Quebec's separation from Canada as many (especially in bilingual Montreal) are against it. Also, while most Francophones in other parts of Quebec identify solely as Québécois and not Canadian, many Francophones in Montreal identify as both Québécois and Canadian. If you really want to discuss those topics with locals, be sure you are well-informed. It is still safer to avoid the subject, as it is still a very emotional issue. Use common sense and be respectful. The main language in Montreal, as in the rest of Quebec, is French. Making an attempt to use the language is a great way to show respect for locals, whether or not they can speak English, even if you can manage only a few words with a very strong accent. However, Montreal is considered to be one of the world's most bilingual cities with many residents whose primary language is English, and you will often hear locals code switching between French and English when having a conversation. In case of doubt, you may want to open with a warm "Bonjour!" (''Good day'') and see what language is used in response. Most likely you will be answered in English, if your French accent does not sound local. Don't be offended if you are trying to speak French and locals respond to you in English. Since most Montrealers speak both French and English, they are simply trying to make things easier for you. Many people working in the tourist and service industries are completely bilingual without accents. But don't make jokes about French people (especially since Francophones in Montreal are mostly Québécois with a few Acadiens and Franco-Ontariens, all of whom consider themselves different from the French from France and from one another). Also, do not assume that all Québécois are Francophones. Montreal has a significant English-speaking community with a long history in Quebec and many immigrants whose first language is neither English nor French ("Allophones"). ==Go next== Montreal makes an excellent entryway for visiting other cities and destinations in [[Quebec]] and the northern [[United States of America|United States]]. You will have to pass the border control if you go to the US, and arm yourself with the appropriate visas and papers. Add at least one extra hour for the border control. * The [[Adirondacks]] are a 2½-hour drive to the south. These mountains make up the largest park in the contiguous US and offer outdoor activities like hiking, rafting and skiing. * [[Boston]] is a 5-hour drive to the southeast. * [[Mont Tremblant]] lies less than two hours north in the [[Laurentides]]. * The [[Eastern Townships]] are two to three hours straight east. * The Laurentians and in the Eastern Townships between December and March offer good downhill skiing. There are some very good night-skiing centres such as Ski Bromont and Mont-St-Sauveur. * The [[Monteregie]] townships, a short drive east of Montreal. * [[New York City]] is a 6½-hour drive directly south. * [[Ottawa]] is two hours west by car. * [[Quebec City]], about 3 hours to the north east on Highway 40, is almost but not quite a day trip. You'll want to stay over, anyway. * [[Tadoussac]], about 6 hours away by car, has great whale-watching * [[Toronto]] is more distant, but still a doable 6-hour drive (or a faster 4½-hour train trip). {{routebox | placename=Montreal (intercity rail) | image1=VIA Rail Ocean icon.png | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=W | majorl1=END | minorl1= | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Sainte-Foy]] | minorr1=[[Saint-Lambert]] | image2=VIA Rail Montreal Quebec icon.png | imagesize2=100 | link2=Windsor-Quebec corridor | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Ottawa]] | minorl2=[[Dorval]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Quebec City]] | minorr2=[[Saint-Lambert]] | image3=VIA Rail Toronto Montreal icon.png | imagesize3=100 | link3=Windsor-Quebec corridor | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Toronto]] | minorl3=[[Montreal/West Island|Dorval]] | directionr3=E | majorr3=END | minorr3= | image4=VIA Rail Montreal Senneterre icon 02.png | imagesize4=100 | image4a=VIA Rail Montreal Senneterre icon 01.png | imagesize4a=100 | directionl4=&nbsp;N | majorl4=[[Shawinigan]] | minorl4=[[Saint-Justin]] | directionr4=S | majorr4=END | minorr4= | image5=Amtrak Adirondack icon.png | imagesize5=100 | directionl5=&nbsp;N | majorl5=END | minorl5= | directionr5=S | majorr5=Albany ([[Rensselaer (New York)|Rensselaer]]) | minorr5=[[Saint-Lambert]] → [[File:Aiga immigration.svg|18px]] |link1=The Ocean|majorl6=|image6=|imagesize6=|minorr6=|majorr6=|directionr6=|directionl6=}} {{routebox | placename=Montreal (regional rail) | image1=Mtl Train CA.png | imagesize1=75 | caption1=AMT Candiac Line | directionl1=W | majorl1=END | minorl1=Candiac | directionr1=E | majorr1=END | minorr1= | image3=Mtl Train MA.png | imagesize3=75 | caption3=AMT Mascouche Line | directionl3=&nbsp;N | majorl3=Mascouche | minorl3=[[Repentigny]] | directionr3=S | majorr3=END | minorr3= | image4=Mtl Train SH.png | imagesize4=75 | caption4=AMT Mont-Saint-Hilaire Line | directionl4=W | majorl4=END | minorl4= | directionr4=E | majorr4=[[Mont-Saint-Hilaire]] | minorr4=[[Longueuil]] | image5=Mtl Train SJ.png | imagesize5=75 | caption5=AMT Saint-Jérôme Line | directionl5=&nbsp;N | majorl5=[[Saint-Jérôme]] | minorl5=[[Laval]] | directionr5=S | majorr5=END | minorr5= | image6=Mtl Train VH.png | imagesize6=75 | caption6=AMT Vaudreuil–Hudson Line | directionl6=W | majorl6=[[Hudson (Quebec)|Hudson]] | minorl6=[[Vaudreuil-Dorion]] | directionr6=E | majorr6=END | minorr6= }} <!--Light rail transit that only connects to one other article. {{routebox | placename=Montreal (express rail) | image1=Montreal_public_transit_icons_-_REM_A_dark.svg | imagesize1=25 | caption1=Main line | directionl1=W | majorl1=END | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Longueuil]] → [[Brossard]] | minorr1= }} --> {{routebox | placename=Montreal (road) | image1=Trans-Canada Highway Quebec.svg | link1=Trans-Canada Highway | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Ottawa]] | minorl1=[[Vaudreuil-Dorion]] ← [[File:Quebec Autoroute 40.svg|16px|link=]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Quebec City]] ([[Lévis]]) | minorr1=[[File:Quebec Autoroute 25.svg|16px|link=]] → [[Boucherville Islands National Park|Boucherville Islands]] | image2=Quebec Autoroute 10.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=END | minorl2= | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Sherbrooke]] / [[Burlington (Vermont)|Burlington]] via [[File:Quebec Autoroute 35.svg|16px|link=]][[File:I-89.svg|18px|link=]] | minorr2=[[Brossard]] | image3=Quebec Autoroute 13.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=N | majorl3=[[Boisbriand]] | minorl3=[[Laval]] | directionr3=S | majorr3=[[Montreal]] (Lachine sector) | minorr3=[[Dorval]] | image4=Quebec Autoroute 15.svg | imagesize4=22 | image4a=Trans-Canada Highway Quebec.svg | imagesize4a=22 | link4=Trans-Canada Highway | directionl4=&thinsp;N | majorl4=[[Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts]] | minorl4=[[Laval]] | directionr4=S | majorr4=[[Albany (New York)|Albany]] via [[File:I-87.svg|18px|link=]] | minorr4='''[[File:Trans-Canada Highway Quebec.svg|16px|link=Trans-Canada Highway]] ENDS at [[File:Quebec Autoroute 40.svg|16px|link=]]''' → [[Brossard]] | image5=Quebec Autoroute 20.svg | imagesize5=22 | directionl5=W | majorl5=[[Kingston (Ontario)|Kingston]] via [[File:Ontario 401.svg|16px|link=]] | minorl5=[[Vaudreuil-Dorion]] | directionr5=E | majorr5=[[Quebec City]] ([[Lévis]]) | minorr5=[[Brossard]] | image6=Quebec Autoroute 25.svg | imagesize6=22 | directionl6=&thinsp;N | majorl6=[[Terrebonne]] | minorl6=[[Laval]] | directionr6=S | majorr6=[[Quebec City]] ([[Lévis]]) via [[File:Quebec Autoroute 20.svg|16px|link=]] | minorr6=[[Boucherville Islands National Park|Boucherville Islands]] | image7=Quebec Autoroute 40.svg | imagesize7=22 | directionl7=W | majorl7=[[Ottawa]] via [[File:Ontario 417.svg|16px|link=]] | minorl7=[[Vaudreuil-Dorion]] | directionr7=E | majorr7=[[Quebec City]] | minorr7=[[Repentigny]] | image8=Quebec Autoroute 520.svg | imagesize8=22 | directionl8=W | majorl8=[[Dorval]] | minorl8= | directionr8=E | majorr8=[[Montreal]] | minorr8= | image9=Qc112.svg | imagesize9=22 | directionl9=W | majorl9=END | minorl9= | directionr9=E | majorr9=[[Sherbrooke]] | minorr9=[[Saint-Lambert]] | image10=Qc117.svg | imagesize10=22 | directionl10=W | majorl10=[[Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts]] | minorl10=[[Laval]] | directionr10=E | majorr10=END | minorr10= | image11=Qc134.svg | imagesize11=22 | directionl11=W | majorl11=END | minorl11= | directionr11=E | majorr11=[[La Prairie]] | minorr11=[[Longueuil]] | image12=Qc138.svg | imagesize12=22 | directionl12=W | majorl12=[[Malone (New York)|Malone]] via [[File:NY-30.svg|18px|link=]] | minorl12=[[Huntingdon (Quebec)|Huntingdon]] | directionr12=E | majorr12=[[Trois-Rivières]] | minorr12=[[Repentigny]] }} {{related|UNESCO_Creative_Cities}} {{geo|45.5|-73.6|zoom=11}} {{IsPartOf|Southwestern Quebec}} {{usablecity}} 4uh4b8aueflcup8046eajw7b6x421wb 0 23012 5090868 5090654 2025-07-10T14:36:28Z 92.21.137.132 Fix errors [[Category:Listing with phone missing country code]]. Add +1 country code. Remove brackets from area code. 5090868 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Morgan-Hill-banner-01.jpg}}'''[https://www.morganhill.ca.gov/ Morgan Hill]''' is a city in [[Santa Clara County]], [[California]], at the southern tip of [[Silicon Valley]], in the [[San Francisco Bay Area]]. Morgan Hill is primarily an affluent residential community for Silicon Valley, as well as the seat for several high-tech companies. ==Get in== {{mapframe|37.126667|-121.643056|zoom=13}} Morgan Hill sits astride US 101, a major north-south highway that spans the Pacific coast from [[San Diego]] to [[Seattle]]. Commercial air service is via [http://www.sjc.org/ Mineta San Jose International Airport], approximately 20 miles to the north. Morgan Hill also is connected to [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] and [[San Francisco]] by [https://www.caltrain.com/ Caltrain] service, but only during peak commute hours. [https://www.caltrain.com/station/morganhill Time Table] * {{listing | type=go | name=Morgan Hill railway station | alt= | url=http://www.caltrain.com/stations/morganhillstation.html | email= | address=17300 Depot St | lat=37.129727 | long=-121.650561 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Morgan Hill station | wikidata=Q6911695 | lastedit=2019-05-22 | content= }} ==Get around== Santa Clara Valley bus service [https://www.vta.org/go/routes schedule]. For getting around the city, Morgan Hill offers a rideshare system named [https://www.morganhill.ca.gov/2329/MoGo MoGo]. ==See== * {{see | name=[[Henry Coe State Park]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2024-06-23| content=The largest state park in northern California. It is open year-round for hikers, mountain bikers, backpackers, equestrians, car campers, picnickers, and photographers. }} * {{see | name=Anderson Lake County Park | alt= | url=https://parks.sccgov.org/santa-clara-county-parks/anderson-lake-county-park | email= | address=19245 Malaguerra Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 779-3634 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Park office:. It is great for hiking, running, biking, and skating on paved trails. The lake is open for boating and fishing. Jet-ski's and float tubes are permitted. }} ==Do== ===Wineries & Vineyards=== * {{do | name=Guglielmo Winery | alt= | url=http://www.guglielmowinery.com/ | email= | address=1480 E Main Ave | lat= | long= | directions=across from Live Oak HS | phone=+1 408 779-2145 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Morgan Hill Cellars | alt= | url=http://www.morganhillcellars.com/ | email=wines@morganhillcellars.com | address=1645 San Pedro Winery | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408-779-7389 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Mohi Ranch | url=https://www.liveloveleal.com/experience/mohi-ranch | email= | address=12775 Uvas Road | lat= | long= | directions=west of Morgan Hill on Sycamore Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2025-07-10| content= }} * {{do | name=Kirigins Winery | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=west of Morgan Hill on Uvas Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=EmmaLily Vineyards | alt= | url=http://www.emmalilyvineyards.com | email= | address=2105 Dahlberg Dr | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 655 9197 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-08-12 | content= }} ===Entertainment=== * {{do | name=Cinelux Theaters | url=https://www.cineluxtheatres.com/cinelux-tennant-station | email= | address=750 Tennant Station Way | lat=37.11366 | long=-121.63798 | directions=Off of Tennant Street, between Monterey and 101 | phone=+1 408 265-7373 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2024-06-23| content= }} ==Buy== Shopping areas include downtown and the Cochrane area (known as Cochrane Commons). There are plenty of Starbucks stores, and a Target superstore is in Cochrane Commons. ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Betsy's Restaurant & Lounge | url= | email= | address=650 Tennant Station | lat= | long= | directions=in the bowling alley | phone=+1 408 779-3721 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great food and some of the best prime rib served on weekends. }} * {{eat | name=Golden China | alt= | url= | email= | address=16965 Monterey St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 778-1878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese food. Also includes free eggroll. Cheap. }} * {{eat | name=Maurizio's | alt= | url= | email= | address=25 E. First St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 782-7550 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2024-06-23| content=Italian cuisine & seafood. Hidden gem. }} * {{eat | name=Moon's Kitchen | alt= | url= | email= | address=16985 Monterey St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 778-3883 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Asian cuisine. }} * {{Eat|name=O'Henry's Donuts|url=https://www.ohenrysdonuts.com/|email=info@ohenrysdonuts.com|address=500 Vineyard Town Center|phone=+1 408 778-5955|hours=Mon-Sat 5:00AM-4:00PM; Sun 5:30AM-3:30PM|lastedit=2025-07-10|content=Burgers served from 10:00AM-3:00PM.}} * {{eat | name=Rosy's at the Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=17320 Monterey St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 778-0551 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=California cuisine; seafood. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=Sinaloa Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=17535 Monterey Highway | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 779-9740 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Mexican cuisine. }} *{{eat | name=Mr. Falafel | alt= | url=http://www.mrfalafel.net | email= | address=17455 Monterey St | lat= | long= | directions=Downtown Morgan Hill | phone=+1 408 778-7777 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-10PM | price= | content=Mediterranean and Vegetarian food prepared to order. Sharwma, Kefta Kabob, Hummus, Baba Ganoush and tabbouleh salads. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Boxseat Sports Grill | alt= | url= | email= | address=15650 Vineyard Blvd, Suite F | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 778-7102 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Comfort Inn | url=http://www.comfortinnmorganhill.com | email= | address=16225 Condit Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-208-5964 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Courtyard San Jose South/Morgan Hill | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/property/propertypage/SJCMH | email= | address=18610 Madrone Parkway | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 782-6034 | tollfree= | fax=+1 408 782-1064 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Extended Stay America | alt= | url=http://www.extendedstayamerica.com/minisite/default.asp?hotelID=602=null | email= | address=605 Jarvis Dr | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 779-9660 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites | alt= | url=http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/ex/1/en/hd/sjcmh | email= | address=17035 Condit Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 776-7676 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Residence Inn San Jose South/Morgan Hill | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/property/propertypage/SJCMO | email= | address=18620 Madrone Parkway | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 782-8311 | tollfree= | fax=+1 408 782-8322 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=San Jose/Morgan Hill Microtel Inn & Suites | alt= | url=http://www.morganhillhotel.com | email= | address=16245 Condit Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 408 782-5000 | tollfree= | fax=+1 408 782-6633 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hampton Inn Morgan Hill | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/sjccrhx-hampton-morgan-hill/ | email= | address=16115 Condit Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2020-08-14 | content= }} ==Stay safe== Be careful to check for [[ticks]] after hiking in fields in the bay area. There is a high rate of lyme disease transmission in the Bay Area. If a bulls' eye rash develops at the tick bite site, immediately seek medical help and treatment with antibiotics. ==Go next== *'''[[Henry Coe State Park]]''' *[[San Jose (California)|'''San Jose''']] *'''[[Gilroy (California)|Gilroy]]''' {{routebox | image1=US_101.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Gilroy]] | image2=Caltrain_logo.svg | imagesize2=50 | directionl2=N | majorl2=[[San Francisco]] | minorl2=[[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] | directionr2=S | majorr2=END | minorr2=[[Gilroy (California)|Gilroy]] }} {{geo|37.126667|-121.643056|zoom=14}} {{IsPartOf|South Bay}} {{usablecity}} 59zyzkb7tyemzl99t64p68x2ko2o3dr 0 23033 5091325 5089144 2025-07-11T10:35:02Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ probs not needed 5091325 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Aït Arbi (Maroc) banner Vallée des Gorges du Dadès.jpg|caption=The village of Aït Arbi in Saharan Morocco}} '''Morocco''' ([[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]: المغرب, ''Al-Maghrib''; [[Berber phrasebook|Berber]]: ⵍⵎⴰⵖⵔⵉⴱ, ''Elmaɣrib''; [[French phrasebook|French]]: ''Maroc'') is the northwesternmost country in [[Africa]]. Morocco has, for most people, been the gateway to [[Africa]]. With plenty of attractive locations, historical sights, and unique cultural traditions, there's lots to see and do in this beautiful, mesmerising country. At just a few hours from the main European cities, Morocco has everything to overwhelm you with the amazing colours, smells and sounds of Islamic Africa. Imagine bustling souqs and spice markets, stunning mosques, white-washed sea side towns and medieval city centres. With panoramic views varying from snow-covered peaks in the High Atlas to the endless sand dunes of the Sahara, no-one ever has to be bored in this beautiful country. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Map of Morocco.png | regionmaptext=Map of Morocco | regionmapsize=350px | region1name=[[Mediterranean Morocco]] | region1color=#d5b66b | region1items= | region1description= Home to several [[Spain|Spanish]] enclaves and serves as the country's main access point to the sea. | region2name=[[North Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|North Atlantic Coast]] | region2color=#d5dc76 | region2items= | region2description= Home of the [[Rabat|capital]] and [[Casablanca]]. The first entry point for the traveller. | region3name=[[South Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|South Atlantic Coast]] | region3color=#4da9c4 | region3items= | region3description=Home to gorgeous beach towns like [[Essaouira]] and [[Agadir]]. | region4name=[[High Atlas]] | region4color=#b383b3 | region4items= | region4description= Home to major cities like [[Marrakech]] and much of the ethnic Berber population. | region5name=[[Middle Atlas]] | region5color=#71b37b | region5items= | region5description=covering the Middle Atlas mountains and the surrounding areas including Fez and Meknes | region6name=[[Saharan Morocco]] | region6color=#d56d76 | region6items= | region6description= The vast desert region of Morocco and the country's least populated region. Offers the traveller a chance to explore a slice of the vast Saharan desert. | region7name=[[Anti Atlas]] | region7color=#a78379 | region7items= | region7description= Home of [[Taroudant]] and offers the traveller another chance to explore another slice of the vast Saharan desert. }} * '''[[Spanish North Africa]]''' includes [[Ceuta]], [[Melilla]] and a few other small territories at the Mediterranean sea, which are part of [[Spain]]. {{disclaimerbox|As travel conditions in the '''[[Western Sahara]]''' are remarkably different from a traveller's point of view, it is treated as its own entity. This '''should not''' be interpreted as a political endorsement of claims by any side in the sovereignty dispute.}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5b66b|title=[[Mediterranean Morocco]]|wikidata=Q14207241}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5dc76|title=[[North Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|North Atlantic Coast]]|wikidata=Q14204012}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#4da9c4|title=[[South Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|South Atlantic Coast]]|wikidata=Q14204036}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b383b3|title=[[High Atlas]]|wikidata=Q584279}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Middle Atlas]]|wikidata=Q1433137}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d56d76|title=[[Saharan Morocco]]|wikidata=Q14207244}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a78379|title=[[Anti Atlas]]|wikidata=Q574853}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|31.368|-5.587|zoom=6|height=600|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rabat]]|url=|lat=34.020882|long=-6.84165|wikidata=Q3551}} (Arabic: '''الرِّبَاط''', Berber: ⵕⵕⴱⴰⵟ) – the capital of Morocco; very relaxed and hassle-free, highlights include a 12th-century tower and minaret. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Agadir]]|url=|lat=30.433333|long=-9.6|wikidata=Q170525}} (Arabic: '''اكادير''', Berber: ⴰⴳⴰⴷⵉⵔ) – the town is a nice example of modern Morocco, best known for its beaches, with less emphasis on history and culture. Take the local bus for a few cents and go 2 or 3 villages north, where there are additional beaches. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Casablanca]]|url=|lat=33.533333|long=-7.583333|wikidata=Q7903}} (Arabic: '''الدار البيضاء''', Berber: ⴰⵏⴼⴰ) – this modern city by the sea is a starting point for visitors flying into the country. If you have the time, both the historical medina and the contemporary mosque (the third largest in the world) are well worth an afternoon. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fez]]|url=|lat=34.033333|long=-5|wikidata=Q80985}} (Arabic: '''فاس‎‎''', Berber: ⴼⴰⵙ) – the former capital of Morocco and home to the oldest university in the world, the Qarawiyyin University, in its well preserved old city. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Marrakech]]|url=|lat=31.63|long=-8.008889|wikidata=Q101625}} (Arabic: '''مراكش'''‎‎, Berber: ⴰⵎⵓⵔⴰⴽⵓⵛ) – a perfect combination of old and new Morocco. Plan to spend at least a few days wandering the huge maze of souks and ruins in the medina. The great plaza of Djeema El Fna at dusk is not to be missed. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Meknes]]|url=|lat=33.895|long=-5.554722|wikidata=Q178663}} (Arabic: '''مكناس''', Berber: ⴰⵎⴽⵏⴰⵙ) – a modern, laid-back city that offers a welcome break from the tourist crush of neighbouring [[Fez]]. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ouarzazate]]|url=|lat=30.916667|long=-6.916667|wikidata=Q505208}} (Arabic: '''ورزازات'''‎‎, Berber: ⵡⴰⵔⵣⴰⵣⴰⵜ) – considered the capital of the South, Ouarzazate is a great example of preservation and tourism that hasn't destroyed the feel of a fantastic and ancient city. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tangier]]|url=|lat=35.766667|long=-5.8|wikidata=Q126148}} (Arabic: '''طنجة'''‎‎, Berber: ⵜⵉⵏⴳⵉ) – the starting point for most visitors arriving by ferry from Spain. An enigmatic charm which has attracted numerous artists (Henri Matisse), musicians (Jimi Hendrix), politicians (Winston Churchill), writers (William S. Burroughs, Mark Twain) and others (Malcolm Forbes). *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tetouan]]|url=|lat=35.566667|long=-5.366667|wikidata=Q185157}} (Arabic: '''تطوان''', Berber: ⵜⵉⵟⵟⴰⵡⵉⵏ) – nice beaches and is the gateway to the Rif Mountains. ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[High Atlas]]|url=|lat=31.433333|long=-6.933333|wikidata=Q584279}} (Arabic: '''الاطلس الكبير''', Berber: ⴰⴷⵔⴰⵔ ⵏ ⴷⵔⵏ) – regular destination for mountain hikers, ski enthusiasts, or travellers interested in the indigenous Berber culture *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Merzouga]]|url=|lat=31.099167|long=-4.011667|wikidata=Q1922278}} (Arabic: '''مرزوقة''', Berber: ⵎⴰⵔⵣⵓⴳⴰ) and {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[M'Hamid]]|url=|lat=29.822222|long=-5.720833|wikidata=Q1014625}} (Arabic: '''محاميد الغزلان''', Berber: ⵜⴰⵔⴰⴳⴰⵍⵜ) – from either of these two settlements at the edge of the Sahara, ride a camel or 4x4 into the desert for a night (or a week) among the dunes and under the stars *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Tinerhir]]|url=|lat=31.514722|long=-5.532778|wikidata=Q335141}} (Arabic: '''تنغير''', Berber: ⵜⵉⵏⵖⵉⵔ) – desert oasis and access point to the stunning High Atlas *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Volubilis]]|url=|lat=34.071111|long=-5.553611|wikidata=Q391215}} (Arabic: '''وليلي''', Berber: ⵡⴰⵍⵉⵍⵉ) – the biggest Roman ruins in Morocco, 30 km north of [[Meknes]], next to the holy town of [[Moulay Idriss]] ==Understand== [[File:Morocco close location (orthographic).svg|thumb]] === Politics and government === The only constitutional monarchy in [[North Africa]], the '''Kingdom of Morocco''' is made up of 12 regions. It has one of the largest economies in Africa, and is an important player in Arab affairs, . ==== Name transcriptions ==== * [[Arabic]]: '''المملكة المغربية''', ''al-mamlaka al-maḡribiyya'' * [[Berber phrasebook|Berber]]: '''ⵜⴰⴳⵍⴷⵉⵜ ⵏ ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ''', ''Tageldit n lmeɣrib'' * [[French]]: '''Royaume du Maroc''' ===History=== {{see also|Islamic Golden Age}} The earliest known independent state of Morocco was the '''Berber Kingdom of Mauretania''' under King Baga. This kingdom dates back at least to 300 BCE. From the 1st century BCE, Morocco was part of the [[Roman Empire]] as '''Mauretania Tingitana'''. Christianity was introduced in the 2nd century CE and gained converts in the Roman towns, among slaves and Berber farmers. In the 5th century CE, as the Roman Empire declined, the region was invaded from the north by the Vandals and later the Visigoths. In the 6th century, northern Morocco became part of the Byzantine Empire. Throughout this time, however, the Berber inhabitants in the high mountains of the interior remained independent. In 670 CE, the first Islamic conquest of the North African coastal plain took place under Uqba ibn Nafi, a general serving under the Umayyads. The indigenous Berber tribes adopted [[Islam]], but retained their customary laws. They also paid taxes and tribute to the new Muslim administration. The first independent Muslim state in the area of modern Morocco was the Kingdom of Nekor, an emirate in the Rif Mountains. It was founded by Salih I ibn Mansur in 710, as a client state. After the outbreak of the Berber Revolt in 739, the Berbers formed other independent states such as the '''Miknasa''' of Sijilmasa and the '''Barghawata'''. According to medieval legend, Idris Ibn Abdallah fled to Morocco after the Abbasids' massacre of the tribes in Iraq. He convinced the Awraba tribes to break the allegiance to distant Abbasid caliphs in Baghdad and he founded the '''Idrisid Dynasty''' in 788. The Idrisids established Fez as their capital and Morocco became a centre of Muslim learning and major regional power. The Idrisids were ousted in 927 by the Fatimid Caliphate and their Miknasa allies. After Miknasa broke off relations with the Fatimids in 932, they were removed from power by the Maghrawa of Sijilmasa in 980. From the 11th century to the early 20th century onwards, a series of dynasties including the '''Almoravids''', '''Almohads''', '''Marinids''', '''Wattasids''', '''Saadis''' and '''Alaouites''' ruled Morocco until it was controlled by the Spanish and French. During World War II, Morocco became an Axis puppet under Vichy France in 1940, and became a refuge for affluent Europeans, famous through the film ''Casablanca''. Morocco was liberated in 1942 by American troops in Operation Torch (see [[World War II in Africa]]) and hosted the 1943 Casablanca conference. Morocco's long struggle for independence from France ended in 1956. The internationalized city of Tangier was turned over to the new country that same year. Morocco annexed [[Western Sahara]] during the late 1970s, and even though the status of the territory remains unresolved, all maps in Morocco show Western Sahara as an integrated part of Morocco. Gradual political reforms in the 1990s resulted in the establishment of a bicameral legislature in 1997, although the king still possesses the actual political power. The press is mostly state controlled even though there are free newspapers, and clampdowns have occurred following criticism of the authorities or articles concerning the Western Sahara situation. ===Culture=== Morocco has 34 million inhabitants. It's a good place to see varied cultural heritages including those with African, Arabic, Berber, Moorish and Western influences. Islam is by far the dominant religion, with 99% of the population being at least nominally Muslim. Christianity is the second largest religion, but most Christians in Morocco are expatriates from Western countries. Morocco used to have a large Jewish community, most of whom were Sephardic Jews whose ancestors fled the Spanish and Portuguese inquisitions, though the vast majority of them fled to Israel in the second half of the 20th century, and only a small community remains in Morocco today. Nevertheless, Morocco's Jewish community is the largest remaining one in an Arab country. ===Electricity and voltage=== {{see also|Electrical systems}} The voltage in Morocco is generally '''220 V''' (partly 127 V) 50 Hz, and outlets will fit the two-pin plug known as the ''Europlug'', probably the most commonly used international plug and included in most international plug adapter kits. It is ungrounded and designed for at most 2.5 A. American and Canadian appliances, which are built to use 110 V, may be damaged if they're plugged into a 220 V unless your appliance is "dual-voltage" (designed for both 110 and 220 V). If not, you'll need a '''transformer''' or '''converter''' (depending on the device) as well as an adapter. ===Holidays=== The biggest event on the Moroccan calendar is the month of [[Ramadan]], during which Muslims fast during the day time and break the fast at sunset. Most restaurants are closed for lunch (with the exception of those catering specifically to tourists), and things generally slow down. Travelling during this time is entirely possible, and the restrictions don't apply to non-Muslims, but it's respectful to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during the fast. At the end of the month is the holiday of '''Eid al-Fitr''', when practically everything closes for as long as a week and transport is packed as everybody heads back home. Alcohol consumption is not prohibited for tourists during Ramadan; there are a few restaurants and bars serving alcohol. Also, alcohol can be purchased in a supermarket, but only if a tourist shows their passport to the staff, as Moroccans are not allowed to buy or consume alcohol during the holy month. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.visitmorocco.com/ Visit Morocco] If you are adventurous at heart, a good time to visit Morocco for trekking in the desert is February. You can enjoy coastal areas or beaches at Essaouira in July. April is the best time to visit the imperial towns in Morocco. The peak tourist season in Morocco is July and August. {{clear|right}} ==Talk== [[File:Amz-plake province Tiznite.JPG|thumbnail|Road sign in Arabic, Berber and French]] {{See also|Moroccan Arabic phrasebook|Arabic phrasebook|Tashelhit phrasebook|French phrasebook}} {{infobox|Some common phrases in Moroccan Arabic:|* Salam: Hello * B'Saha: Good health to you (commonly used expression in Morocco) * Shukran: Thank you * Tanmirt: Thank you (in Tamazight) * Insha Allah: God willing }} The official languages of Morocco are '''[[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]] and [[Berber phrasebook|Berber]]'''. Many Moroccans are multilingual. As for European languages, younger people and people working in touristic areas are more likely to speak English, while older people and those in smaller towns might be more likely to speak some French. Mileage may vary though, of course, and knowing basics in both does help. If you are unsure, just ask which language someone prefers. '''[[Moroccan Arabic phrasebook|Moroccan Arabic]]''' (also known as '''Darija'''), the local vernacular, is spoken natively by about 91% of the population. The dialect is one of the toughest Arabic dialects to learn; native speakers of Arabic outside of Morocco often have trouble understanding the way Moroccans speak. Some consider the dialect a different language altogether. If you don't know the local dialect, do not despair: all Moroccans learn '''Modern Standard Arabic''' at school, so you should have no problems communicating in large cities. [[Tashelhit phrasebook|'''Tashelhit''']] and '''Central Morocco Tamazight''' are the most commonly spoken Berber languages. Tashelhit is mostly spoken in southwestern Morocco, whereas Central Morocco Tamazight is spoken in the Atlas Mountains region of central Morocco. '''[[French phrasebook|French]]''', although it has no official status in the country, is a second language for a lot of Moroccans. The language is held in high regard; French is taught in Moroccan schools from a young age and the language is used in many avenues such as business, government, and commerce. French is often used to transliterate Arabic words. For example, the name Abdullah is transliterated as Abdellah. '''[[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]''' is spoken by some Moroccans living in [[Mediterranean Morocco]]. Moroccans born during and before the 1950s – parts of Morocco were under the administration of [[Spain]] back then – are more likely to be competent in Spanish than their juniors. '''English''' is increasingly becoming popular in Morocco and the Moroccan government is keen on promoting the language. This being said, English is not widely spoken in Morocco and not everyone is happy with the government's decision to espouse English. Tourist destinations that have become popular with Northern European visitors, like [[Taghazout]] or [[Marrakech]], are where you will likely find the most English-speaking Moroccans. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Morocco.svg|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Morocco, with countries in green having visa-free access]] ===Entry requirements=== Morocco's visa policy is relatively liberal compared to other African countries; the country has numerous visa-free arrangements. Nationals of the following countries can enter Morocco visa-free: [[Europe#Get in|Schengen member states]], [[Algeria]], [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[Bahrain]], [[Brazil]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[China]], [[Côte d'Ivoire]], [[Croatia]], [[Republic of Congo]], [[Guinea]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Indonesia]], [[Ireland]], [[Japan]], [[Kuwait]], [[Libya]], [[Macau]], [[Malaysia]], [[Mali]], [[Mexico]], [[New Zealand]], [[Niger]], [[Oman]], [[Peru]], [[Philippines]], [[Qatar]], [[Russia]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Senegal]], [[Singapore]], [[South Korea]], [[Tunisia]], [[Turkey]], [[United Arab Emirates]], [[United Kingdom]], [[United States of America|United States]]. The Moroccan Embassy is usually the first port of call for tourists from countries needing a visa to enter Morocco. They charge the equivalent of UK £17 for a single entry and £26 for double or multiple entries. (Double or Multiple entries will be issued at the embassy's discretion). Visas are usually valid for three months and take around 5-6 working days to process. Visa requirements are completed application forms; four passport-size photos taken within the previous six months; a valid passport with at least one blank page and with a photocopy of the relevant data pages; Fee, payable by postal order only; a photocopy of all flight bookings and a photocopy of hotel reservation. Tourists can stay for up to 90 days, and visa extensions can be frustrating and time-consuming. (You may find it easier to duck into the Spanish-controlled [[Ceuta]] or [[Melilla]] and then re-enter Morocco for a new stamp). Anti-cholera '''vaccination certificates''' may be required of visitors coming from areas where this disease is prevalent and pets need a health certificate less than ten days old, and an anti-rabies certificate less than six months old. ===By plane=== [[File:ROYAL AIR MAROC BOEING 737-800 AND ATR72 AT MARRAKECH MENARA AIRPORT MOROCCO APRIL 2013 (8696076081).jpg|thumb|300px|Planes of the flag carrier Royal Air Maroc at [[Marrakech]] airport]] Major airlines that serve Morocco would most likely be landing at [[Casablanca]]. In addition to destinations across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, one can also fly intercontinental from [[New York City|New York]], [[Washington, D.C.]], [[Miami]], [[Montreal]], [[Rio de Janeiro]] and [[Sao Paulo]]. Other popular entry points include [[Marrakesh]], [[Agadir]], [[Fes]], [[Rabat]], and [[Tangier]], to which many European low-cost carriers fly either year-round or seasonally. '''[http://www.easyjet.com Easyjet]''' &mdash; Now fly at budget prices from [[London]] and [[Manchester]] to [[Marrakech]] and [[Casablanca]]. Another option is from [[CDG|Paris - Charles de Gaulle]] to [[Casablanca]]. '''[http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair]''' &mdash; flies to Morocco from [[Bergamo]], [[Girona]], [[Reus]], [[Madrid]], [[Brussels]], "Frankfurt"-[[Hahn]], Eindhoven, [[London]], [[Porto]]. Flying to [[Fez]] 3 times per week. Flights to Marrakesh are also available. '''[http://www.RoyalAirMaroc.com Royal Air Maroc]''' &mdash; The state airline, which drastically needs a price cut. '''Air Arabia Maroc''' owned by Air Arabia, is another low-cost carrier which flies to other Moroccan destinations, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Tunisia and Turkey. '''[http://www.bintercanarias.com Binter Canarias]''' &mdash; Flights from Canary Islands to Marrakesh. '''[http://www.emirates.com Emirates]''' &mdash; Flights from Dubai to Casablanca. Many visitors also fly to [[Gibraltar]] or [[Malaga]] (which are often considerably cheaper to get to) and take a ferry from [[Algeciras]], [[Tarifa]] or Gibraltar to [[Tangier]]. This is not recommended in summer as literally millions of Moroccans living in [[Europe]] use this passage during the summer holidays. ===By car=== You can enter via ferry or via the two only open border posts on land connected to the Spanish enclaves of [[Ceuta]] and [[Melilla]]. The frontier with Algeria has been closed since 1994. For the closest maritime connection you head for [[Algeciras]] or [[Tarifa]] in southern [[Spain]]. At Algeciras there are ferry services to Ceuta and [[Tangier]] that carry cars. Tarifa has a similar service to Tangier and this is the shortest and fastest route, just 35 minutes. It's possible also to enter by car from [[Mauritania]] via [[Dakhla]]. It might be hard to get into Morocco with a commercial vehicle. Camper vans are acceptable (but they must look like a camper van), but other commercial vehicles might get turned around and prevented from travelling onwards. If you want to take a commercial vehicle, and there is more than one person travelling, it may be worthwhile if a French-speaking person travels to any international border with Morocco of your choice and meets with the head of Customs before you bring in a commercial vehicle. ===By boat=== [[File:Intershipping Detroit Jet.JPG|thumbnail|Boarding a Tarifa - Tangier ferry]] There are several ferry connections to Morocco, mainly from [[Spain]]. The most popular one is from [[Algeciras]] to [[Tangier]], €37, approx 1 hr trip, another one is from the small port of [[Tarifa]], on the southernmost tip of mainland Spain. A free shuttle bus between Tarifa and Algeciras (25 min) is provided for all ferry passengers, so you will have no problems getting to the Algeciras train station. Other Spanish ports with connections to Morocco are [[Malaga]] and [[Almeria]] with departures to [[Melilla]] and the adjacent Moroccan town of [[Nador]]. Ferries from [[Marseille]] and the port of [[Sète]] near [[Montpellier]] in [[France]] also go to Tangier. However, they are rather expensive. The Italian towns of [[Genoa]] and [[Naples]] also have direct connections to Tangier. The British dependency of [[Gibraltar]] has irregular ferries to Tangier (no more than 2 departures per month). Ensure your ticket takes you to the right port, as for instance {{marker|type=go|name=Tanger Med port|lat=35.876528|long=-5.516655}} is 50 km from Tangier city. From the south of Spain (Estepona) a sailing yacht will take you for a few days to the north east of Morocco (Smir). ==Get around== With an area of 446,300 square kilometres (172,300 sq mi), Morocco is a relatively easy country to get around in. A trip from [[Taroudant]] to [[Rabat]] will easily take you 5½ hours by car, depending on traffic conditions. ===By train=== [[File:The train to Fes (3092552771).jpg|thumbnail|Moroccan intercity train]] [[File:Railways Morocco.png|thumb|350px]] Trains are generally the best option because of their speed, frequency and comfort. However, the network is limited, though it travels to many of the main tourist destinations. Two of the main lines, which both operate hourly most of the day are the following: * Al Boraq [[high speed rail]] train, traveling between [[Tangier]] and [[Casablanca]] via [[Rabat]] and Kenitra. Between Tangier and Casablanca, trains take about 2 hours 20 minutes to complete the journey. Until further construction takes place, only the portion between Tangier and Kenitra is along high speed rail, where it travels at 300 km/h, and otherwise the trains travel around 160 km/h. * Line between [[Marrakech]], Casablanca, Rabat, Kenitra, [[Meknes]], and [[Fez]]. While this is not a high speed train, much of journey is at 160 km/h. A branch line to Oujda starts at [[Sidi Kachem]] linking [[Meknes]] and [[Fez]] to the main lines. The rail network is operated by '''[https://www.oncf-voyages.ma/ ONCF]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. Tickets can be purchased both online and at stations and they are very cheap compared to Europe. For examples, Casablanca to Marrakech: 146 dirham for second class, 180 first, 2 hours 39 minutes. The only drawback with Moroccan trains are that they are very frequently delayed, so don't count on the timetables if you are in a hurry. People are incredibly sociable and friendly on the trains in Morocco and you will find yourself perpetually talking to strangers about your journey. Each new person will advise you on some new place you should go or invite you to their home for couscous. Stations in smaller cities are often poorly marked, and your fellow passengers will be more than happy to let you know where you are and when you should get off. It's expected to greet (''Salam'') new passengers entering your compartment, and if you bring fruit, cake, etc., it's common to offer the other passengers something as well. If you spend a little extra for 1st class you increase your chances of meeting someone proficient in many languages. There are three daily departures from Tangier, bound for either [[Oujda]] or Marrakech, although all of them can be used to reach either destination as there are corresponding trains in Sidi Kachem using the opposite branch of the train coming from Tangier. The night trains between Tangier and Marrakech offer couchettes for an extra 100 dirham. This is the only option if you would like to lie down sleeping as there are obstacles between the seats in regular compartments. In summer, train compartments can be hot, with passengers standing everywhere when all seats are taken. First class train cars are supposed to have working air conditioning, however, not all train cars with air conditioning have it in working mode, so it's advisable to bring with you plenty of water (there are no vending machines on [https://www.oncf-voyages.ma/ ONCF]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} trains, unlike SNCF or TrenItalia trains, and the conductor with a vending cart is not often easy to find). For example, the travel time between Tangier and Fez is about 5 hours and with no AC and no water, the ride can become unbearable in the summer desert heat. When you arrive at a station, to reaching the platform you'll need to validate your ticket (checkpoint at the entrance). ===By bus=== Luxury '''buses''' are the next best bet, with almost universal coverage, if somewhat odd departure times in some places. [http://www.ctm.ma/ '''CTM'''], [http://www.supratours.ma/ '''Supratours'''] and some smaller companies provide good comfort with reasonable prices. Supratours buses offer specific tickets to link with the rail system and are bookable on the train company website as Supratours is run by it. All bus companies charge for baggage separately, however CTM is the only one that does this officially and provides baggage receipts. On Supratours, whoever takes your bag will demand up to 20 dirham (pay no more than 5 dirham). Do not pay for luggage that you can take aboard with you and that fits in the overhead locker of between your feet. Touts will try to charge you for that, strongly refuse. Nearly every city has a central bus station (''Gare Routière'') where you can buy tickets to travel from region to region (and in some cities certain companies run their own stations - mostly that applies to the operators CTM (''Gare Voyage'') and partly Supratours). You can either choose the buses for tourists with air-conditioning and a TV. Or you can also take the local buses which cost only 25-50% of the tourist buses and are much more fun. They are not very comfortable, but you can get in contact with the local people and learn a lot about the country. The buses often take longer routes than the big ones, so you can see villages you would never get to as a "normal" tourist. For heat-sensitive people this is not advisable though, as locals may tell you that 35 degrees is "cool" and no reason for opening a window. The route from Rissani, Erfoud, and Er Rachidia to Meknes and Fez, while long, runs through the Middle and High Atlas and is particularly scenic. At the large bus stations (''Gare Routière''), always buy your ticket at the ticket window inside of the bus station. Otherwise you will mostly overpay. Several touts will approach you as you enter the bus station, and try to sell you a ticket. While a local will get a proper ticket with them (because they know the prices), tourists will most certainly be overcharged. Also, the ticket windows often (must) have prices and time tables displayed. You might get the ticket with the same guy that approached you in the beginning, but it will consequently be much cheaper. Local intercity buses can be entered along the highway or main road, where you will pay the conductor. Always ask for the price before entering, and if too high, refuse. At least the conductors will understand, that you will not board if too high and give you a good price. Supratours and CTM buses will not stop anywhere for you to enter except for the main bus stations&mdash;the driver is not allowed to sell tickets. Luxury buses operated by [http://www.ctm.ma CTM] are also inexpensive and offer an easier travelling experience than local buses. [http://www.supratours.ma/ Supratours], a major rival of CTM, complements the train network to Essaouira and all major Atlantic-coast towns south to Marrakech. CTM and Supratours tickets can often not be booked online directly with the bus operator using a foreign bank card. In this case, they can either be bought in person at the bus stations, or using [https://www.marrakechtickets.co.uk/ Marrakech Tickets]. Note that Marrakech Tickets will charge a significant fee and take a few hours (or even days) to process your request, which involves sending you an invoice by email. '''Local intercity buses''' are a completely valid choice for the hardier traveller, and often even have more leg room than the luxury buses although this may be just because the seat in front of you is disintegrating. They can be extraordinarily slow as they will stop for anyone, anywhere, and only luxury buses are air conditioned (and locals hate open windows). Although, one exception seems to be the [[Agadir]]-[[Essaouira]] route, where even local buses are very fast. Probably due to the number of buses on this route and the desire to pick up as many passengers as possible along the way (not going to happen if overtaken by another company). ===By e-hailing=== You can hail a taxi or private car with the apps of Careem, Heetch, Roby and InDrive. Uber stopped operations in Morocco in 2018{{go|lastedit=2024-05-21}} ===By taxi=== [[File:Grand Taxi Ait Melloul.jpg|thumb|Grand taxi]] Travel by taxi is common in Morocco. There are two sorts: *''Petit taxi'' used only within the area of the town *''Grand taxi'' can be used for trips between towns, and for larger groups ====Petit taxi==== Prices for petit taxi are reasonable, and it's the law that taxis in town should have a meter&mdash;although they are not always on. Insist that the driver starts the meter, although in the more touristy cities drivers will refuse point-blank. If not, ask for the fare before getting in (but it will be more expensive). You can and should bargain the fare down, ideally to an amount for which you have exact change, as the driver often doesn't have it. There often is a minimum fare for trips during the day and another during the night, both listed on a sticker along with other prices in the taxi. And because in some small cities, the metered fare is always lower than the minimum fare, trips are not metered there, and the price is fixed at the minimum fare. In such cities without metered taxis, those stickers are sometimes missing as well. Ask an uninvolved local whether there is such a minimum fare and how high it is (7 dirham is reasonable during the day, 10 at night). Petit taxis are not allowed to leave the city borders and is thus not an option for travelling between cities. ====Grand taxi==== [[File:Morocco, Souss-Massa-Draa Region, Ouarzazate Province, Tazenakht (4).JPG|thumbnail|Grand taxis are often 1970s and 1980s Peugeots and Mercedes]] The grand taxi is a shared, generally long-distance taxi, with a fixed rate for specific route; the driver stopping and picking up passengers like a bus. Grand taxis are usually found near main bus stops. Negotiate on price if you want a journey to yourself and this will be based on distance travelled and whether you are returning—but price per taxi should not depend on the number of passengers in your group. When sharing grand taxi with others, drivers may cheat tourist-looking passengers charging higher—look how much locals around you pay; don't worry to ask other passengers about the normal price, before boarding or even when you're in. Fares are semi-fixed and shared equally between passengers. However, there are six passenger seats per car not four (this is for the ubiquitous Mercedes, there are 8 or 9 seats in the bigger Peugeots in the southeast). Two people are expected to share the front seat, with four across the back. If you want to leave immediately or you want extra space you can pay for any additional empty seats. Grand taxis generally cost less than a luxury bus but more than the local bus. Late at night, expect to be charged a little more than at daytime, and also to pay for all the seats in the car as other customers probably won't show up that late. Grand taxis formerly were 10-year-old Mercedes, regular saloon cars that in Europe are used for up to 4 passengers plus driver. However, nowadays they are replaced more and more by Peugeot vans. For a grand taxi, it is normal to share a car between up to 6 passengers. The front seat is normally given to two women. Some travellers often pay for 2 seats that remain unoccupied to travel with more space inside, and hence comfort. Beware, some taxi drivers will refuse to drive off until the taxi is full, potentially causing you delays. Alternatively, for a relatively reasonable sum (depending on the driver), you can hire a grand taxi in Marrakech for the entire day, allowing you to explore the sights of the surrounding region. Most grand taxis operate only on a single route and that for trips outside of their licensed route they need to get permission from police first. Taxi owners vie with each other to add extras such as sunshades. A clean vehicle and smart driver is usually a good sign of a well maintained vehicle. Grand taxis can also be hired '''privately''' for approximately the price of two petit taxis for shorter trips. This is useful if your party is of four or more. If you plan to take a grand taxi for a custom tour it is best to book one day ahead to give the driver time to get this permission. ===By plane=== Domestic flying is not a popular means of transportation; however, Royal Air Maroc, the national flag carrier, has an excellent but expensive network to most cities. Air Arabia is another choice. Starting in 2024, European low-cost carrier [https://www.ryanair.com Ryanair] operates 11 domestic routes in Morocco between several cities for fares starting as low as 190 dirham, and may even beat the train on both speed and price in some cases, though with limited frequency and baggage allowances. ===By tramway=== The [http://www.casatramway.ma/ Casablanca tramway] is 30 km long, with 49 stops, and Y-shaped. Tickets cost 6 dirham; buy your ticket before boarding. You have a choice between a rechargeable ticket valid for 10 journeys only, or a rechargeable card, valid for 4 years. This is, after the [http://www.tram-way.ma Rabat-Salé tramway]{{Dead link|date=July 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, the second tram system in Morocco, but also the largest system in number of stations and the length of the route. ===By car=== {{see also|Driving in Morocco}} In many ways the traffic culture is different from what you would experience in western countries. The main road network is in good condition but due to the lack of dedicated cycling lanes and pedestrian paths in all but the largest cities, they are shared by many cyclists, pedestrians and horse-drawn vehicles. Roads have a good surface, although some are very narrow, in most cases only one narrow lane in each direction. Many roads in the south marked as sealed actually have only a central strip, one lane wide, sealed with wide shoulders to be used every time you meet oncoming traffic and this is a sensible economic solution in these areas of sparse traffic and long straight roads – except when you can not see oncoming traffic because of windblown dust! Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly illegal even if you drink just one beer. ===By thumb=== Hitching is a routine form of travel in Morocco. Particularly in large farm trucks which supplement income by picking up paying passengers. Price is about half that of a grand taxi. Expect to ride in the back with lots of locals. ==See== [[File:Maroc Marrakech Jemaa-el-Fna Luc Viatour.JPG|thumbnail|Jemaa-el-Fna square in Marrakech]] [[File:Chefchaouen, Morocco (5409528959) (3).jpg|thumbnail|Chefchaouen]] [[File:02-beach-agadir-morocco.JPG|thumbnail|At the beach of Agadir]] Movie-famous '''[[Casablanca]]''' might be the most famous of Moroccan cities and is home to the huge '''Hassan II mosque''', the second largest mosque in the world with only the Grand Mosque of Mecca surpassing it. Many travellers quickly leave this vibrant and modernist metropolis on a search for a more traditional Moroccan experience, but admiring the impressive colonial architecture, Hispano-Moorish and art-deco outlook of the city centre is actually time well spent. '''[[Marrakesh]]''', known as the "Red City" and probably the most prominent former imperial capital, will leave you with memories to cherish for life. Spend your days wandering through the lively souqs, admiring the old '''gates and defense walls''', see the Saadian Tombs, the remnants of the El Badi Palace and visit the Koutoubia Mosque with its 12th century minaret. However, when evening falls make sure to head back to '''Jamaa el-Fnaa''', the largest square in Africa, as it fills up with steam-producing food stalls. Indulge in the bustling activity there, listen to Arabic story tellers, watch magicians and Chleuh dancers. '''[[Fez]]''', once Morocco's capital, is another gorgeous imperial city. Get lost in its lovely labyrinth of narrow Medieval streets, enjoy its huge medina, see the beautiful city gates, the ancient '''University of Al-Karaouine''' and the '''Bou Inania Madrasa'''. Also, make sure to visit a traditional '''leather tanning factory'''. The city of '''[[Meknes]]''' is often called the "Versailles of Morocco" for its beauty. Its lovely Spanish-Moorish style centre is surrounded by tall city walls with impressive gates and you'll be able to see the 17th century blend of European and Islamic cultures even today. For a more laid-back experience of medina life, catch a sea breeze at the coastal towns of '''[[Asilah]]''' or lovely '''[[Essaouira]]'''. The blue-washed town of '''[[Chefchaouen]]''' is an old time travellers' favourite and a great starting point to explore the Rif Mountains. Other impressive mountain scenery can be in found in the Atlas Mountains. On your way to the desert, make sure not to miss the stunning '''Todra gorge''' near [[Tinghir]]. The ancient fortified city of '''[[Aït-Benhaddou]]''' is another must-see sight. Although rainstorms damage the mud-brick kasbahs time and again, this mostly abandoned village remains an impressive sight and has been the décor for a range of movies, including ''Lawrence of Arabia'' and ''Gladiator''. The Kingdom of Morocco retains a number of '''royal residential palaces''' dating to the late 12th century. They are often known as '''Dar al-Makhzen''', in reference to its monarchical institution. ==Do== ===Trekking=== Climb North Africa's highest mountain '''Mt. Toubkal''' (''Jebel Toubkal'') from [[Imlil]], passing lovely adobe villages and exploring the gorgeous Ourika and Amizmiz valleys on the way. Or just trek the [[High Atlas]] mountains. The stunning panoramic views from the top will make it worth every bit of your effort to get there. Other praised hiking routes lead through the beautiful Ameln Valley in the Anti-Atlas and the forests of the '''[[Middle Atlas]]'''. ===Tourist tours=== Marrakech can make a good base for tours all over Morocco, from exploring the [[High Atlas]], over riding the camel or quad, to 1-4 days '''Sahara treks'''. A sheer endless number of tour providers are waiting for the willing-to-pay tourist. Hop on a camel back for a trip through the golden '''Sahara sand dunes''' at [[Erg Chebbi]], near [[Merzouga]]. Spend the night in a desert tent, under the incredibly starred sky. Somewhat less easy to reach but therefor also less crowded are the dunes of [[Erg Chigaga]] near [[M'hamid]]. ===Hammams=== [[File:2006 Chefchaouen-Hamam.jpg|thumbnail|Hammam in Chefchaouen]] There are two types of Hammam (steam baths) across Morocco. The first is the '''tourist hammam''', where you can go and be pampered and scrubbed by an experienced staff member. As these are promoted only to tourists, they are the more expensive option with pricing usually around 150 dirham for a hammam. They are not proper hammams, but they are nonetheless enjoyable, especially for the timid. Your hotel can recommend a good one. The second option is to visit a '''"popular" Hammam'''. Popular hammams are the places where the locals go. Ask the staff at your hotel where they would go. At the popular hammams, you do it all yourself. To make the most of a popular hammam, you need to take a scrubbing mitten (available cheap in the souks), a towel, and some extra underwear (otherwise, you will be going home without any, as it will be sopping wet). Popular hammams are often only identified by tiles around a door and entrance way. If you do not speak French or Arabic, it could be a daunting, or at least a very memorable, experience. Men & women have either separate session times or separate hammams. '''Nudity in a popular hammam is strictly forbidden''' for men, so be prepared to wear your underwear or a bathing suit. For women, you'll see some wearing underwear and some going naked. Whilst in a popular hammam, you may be offered help and a massage from another person. It is essential to remember that this '''massage is nothing but a massage''', with no other intentions. Sexual contact or presumption of sexual contact does not occur in these places. If you accept a massage, be prepared to return the favour. Normal entrance prices for a popular hammam are {{MAD|7-15}}, a scrub will cost around {{MAD|30}}, and a massage another {{MAD|30}}. === Sports === * '''Football:''' the men's national soccer team play internationals at various venues. The top tiers for clubs are Botola 1 and 2, each with 16 teams, and an August-May playing season as in Europe. : Africa Cup of Nations is staged in Morocco 21 Dec 2025 – 18 Jan 2026, with 16 national men's teams competing. The host cities are Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Marrakesh, Agadir and Fez. European clubs are grumbling at this timing as they have to release their African star players for a month. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Moroccan dirham | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;dirham | date=January 2025 | USD=10 | EUR=10.5 | GBP=12.5 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mad-moroccan-dirham XE.com] }} [[File:Moroccan dirham.jpg|thumb|Dirham banknotes, with Hassan Tower in the background ([[Rabat]])]] The local currency is the '''Moroccan dirham''', sometimes symbolised as "'''Dh'''", "'''Dhs''', "'''DH'''", "'''درهم''', or the plural form of "'''دراهم'''" or "'''Dhm'''" (ISO code: '''MAD'''). Wikivoyage articles will use ''dirham'' to denote the currency. It's divided into 100 santime or centimes (c). There are coins in denominations of 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, 1, 2, 5 and 10 dirham, although coins smaller than 20c are rarely seen in circulation these days. Banknotes are available in denominations of 20, 50, 100 and 200 dirham. While the dirham is the only currency officially accepted in Morocco, some hotels may accept your euros and US dollars unofficially. Try to have as many small notes as possible, even accommodations tend to never have any change ready. But also in general, keep larger bills hidden separately, just in case. Prices in Morocco are quite stable, i.e. the references you find in this guide, even if a couple of years old, are very reliable. '''Note:''' Dirham may generally not be exported or imported. A tolerance of 2,000 dirham applies to tourists; more information can be found at the [http://www.douane.gov.ma/ Moroccan customs website]. ==== Money exchange ==== It is illegal to take more than 2,000 dirham of local currency out of the country, so you can't buy dirham outside of Morocco. Airport security conduct periodic currency checks and will confiscate dirham to be taken out of the country. By law, exchange rates should be the same at all banks and official exchanges. Make a note of the exact rates before you go to make sure you're getting a fair deal. Besides banks and dedicated exchange offices, major post offices provide exchange, and work until late hours. Don't expect to see many banks in the ''souqs'' or ''medinas'', although in larger cities there is often an ATM near the main gates, and even one or two inside the large souqs (if you manage to find your way). You may also encounter "helpful" people who will exchange US dollars or euros for dirham. Unofficial exchange on the streets outside souqs or medinas doesn't seem to exist. While changing money from a common widely used currency (e.g. USD or Euros) to dirhams will be easy in cities regularly visited by tourists, changing from dirhams to another currency due to a number of barriers, which include: * For foreigners, the Official "Bureau de Change" won't change dirhams to other currency unless the foreigner has a receipt showing they changed at least that amount of currency into dirhams through a money changer. An ATM withdrawal receipt will not be accepted as proof of currency conversion. * Except at Morocco's international airports, money changers are not permitted to change dirhams into a foreign currency, unless the person seeking the money change has a Moroccan identification card. * If you are flying in the early morning or late evening, money changers at the airport may all be closed. For instance at Rabat airport, money changers do not open until 7 am. * On Sundays, if you are changing money to dirhams, non-bank money changers may not issue receipts. Due to these barriers, it is recommended that you: * If possible, take flights out of the country during the daytime or early to mid evening. * Bring some foreign currency and change it in Morocco, so that you can change what you have leftover at the end of your trip out of dirhams. * Prior to changing money to dirhams, confirm that you will receive a receipt. * Minimize the amount of cash in dirhams that you will have at the end of your trip. ==== ATMs ==== ATMs can be found near tourist hotels and in the modern ''ville nouvelle'' shopping districts. Make sure that the ATM accepts foreign cards (look for the Maestro, Cirrus or Plus logos) ''before'' you put your card in. Also be aware that they are not refilled during weekends in smaller towns, so get enough cash for the weekend on Friday or Saturday morning. As of March 2024, the Al Barid bank does not charge '''ATM fees'''. Also for local banks it's more likely that withdrawing money is for free (apart from the fee your bank charges). About 30 dirham are charged for withdrawals by some banks like Société Générale, BCME, Bank Populaire, BMCI (BNP Paribas), Attijariwafa and others. It could happen that an ATM does not display any fees, you don't get a receipt and on your bank account you notice that they charged anyhow. Talk to your bank and try to reject these fees to make this practice harder in the future. For buying something: If there is no price tag, '''ask for the price first'''. ==== Payment at the airport ==== In event that you plan on spending your remaining dirhams at a Moroccan airport, please note that: * Prices at the stores are shown in Euros, not dirhams. * Expect that some stores will not accept dirhams and some may only accept dirhams for select items in the store. * Like many countries' airports, the cost of some purchases may be multiple times the cost of buying it elsewhere. ===Shopping=== {{infobox|What does it cost? (May 2019)|* Oranges: 4 dirham/kg * Bananas: 8-10 dirham/kg * Melon: 8 dirham/kg * Dates: 10-30 dirham/kg, depending on the quality * Dried Curcuma roots: 50 dirham/kg * Water 1.5 l: 5-6 dirham * Coke 0.5 l: 5.50 dirham * Thé a la menthe / cafe noir: 6-8 dirham * Tagin or couscous: 25-60 dirham, depending on how touristy * Grand taxi: 50-60 dirham / 100 km * Bus: 20-30 dirham / 100 km * Double room: from 170-300 dirham * Pack of Marlboros: 35 dirham * Tobacco for shisha: 20 dirham * Argan oil: from 20 dirham / 100 ml * Rhassoul/ghassoul ½ kg: 8 dirham * Small "silver" teapot (2-3 cups): 10-15 dirham + 30 dirham for heat glove |}} ====What to buy==== [[File:Souks Marrakech 039.JPG|thumbnail|Souvenir shop in the souq of Marrakech]] Apart from classic tourist souvenirs like postcards and trinkets, here are some things from this region that are hard to find elsewhere, or even unique: * '''Birad''' &ndash; Classic Moroccan tea pots. * '''Carpets''' &ndash; Genuine handmade Berber carpets can be purchased direct from the artisans who weave them. If you go to small villages, such as Anzal, in the province of Ouarzazate, you can visit the weavers, watch them work, and they will happily serve you tea and show you their products. * '''Dates''' &ndash; 10 dirham for an orange box seems an adequate price after some bargaining. However, in Europe dates are quite cheap as well, especially when bought at Middle Eastern or Turkish shops. In the end, how much sugar is really good for you? * '''Djellabah''' &ndash; Classic Moroccan designer robe with a hood. Often come in intricate designs and some are suited for warm weather while other heavier styles are for the cold. * '''Leatherware''' &ndash; Morocco has a really huge production of leather goods. Markets are full of mediocre models (you will notice that they use the same cuts and zippers for all the different types of cloths) and designer shops are hard to find. Instead, maybe you want to opt for pure leather itself and do the good work yourself back home&mdash;purses, vests, whatever ... stitching and sewing is becoming more and more popular in Europe again. * '''Rhassoul/ghassoul''' &ndash; Also called wash soil in Europe, where it costs about 10 times as much as in Morocco. * '''T-shirts''' &ndash; If you're looking for T-shirts, consider designer items by Kawibi&mdash;they look much more inspiring than boring traditional set of themes. They are available in duty-free stores, Atlas Airport Hotel near Casablanca and other places. * '''Spices and black soap:''' Morocco is famous for its spices and you will see black soap at every herbs shops in the Medinas. Although spices markets are beautiful and perfect for pictures, the cheapest place to buy them is probably Carrefour. If you get the chance, go to the big supermarkets 5 - 10 km outside the centre of the cities, where you will find the same spices they sell in the Medina, but for one tenth of the price! ====What not to buy==== * '''Geodes''' &ndash; Pink and purple dyed quartz are widely sold along with fake galena geodes which are often described as "cobalt geodes". * '''Trilobite fossils''' &ndash; Unless you are an expert, you will most likely be buying a fake. * '''Artisanal''' or '''cooperative''' &ndash; These are catch phrases put up for tourists and just mean an increased price, but not necessarily higher quality or higher sustainability. Such facts can barely be verified and whether an oil is good or not is a poker game. Either way, you are always better off buying where locals do, because there you can expect quality also locals would go for. Get advice from your ho(s)tel staff where to buy good quality and at what price, but never let them show you directly. And if they say it is their cousin or friend, it is better to avoid it. Then go around the market for even more asking and checking of the lower price barrier of the merchants. Only after that decide what to buy and at what price. * '''Argan oil''' &ndash; Forget about it. It is impossible to tell whether you got something proper. Just because a lady in the shop is kneading stuff in oil, doesn't mean it is anyhow related to the oil they sell. Just because a pressing machine is inside the shop, and they claim to use it to get the oil, it does not mean they actually do so. Just because your guide or the shop owner claim it is the best Argan oil around, doesn't mean it is. Just because they claim it is locally produced, organic (bio), artesanal, from a collective or has fancy logos and graphics, does not mean it is actually genuine&mdash;there is no such thing as a proper Moroccan certification. And just because the price is high does not mean either, it is good quality. Margins for Argan Oil are high, it is hard to identify genuine oil, and tourists are begging to be ripped off ... it only makes sense that this is a big scam you should avoid. Nevertheless, if you are really keen on getting some oil, look up the price for Argan oil in Europe&mdash;it is about €16/250 ml. Only this is what you should use as a base for bargaining. But you are probably better off not paying more than half than that in Morocco. Probably buying in a regular supermarket would be the best idea. Note that of course 100 ml bottles are sold at a far higher price (for tourists in little shops), because they can be carried as hand luggage .... so, what is really the point in the end in paying more than at home, and not even being sure about the product's quality? ===Bargaining=== [[File:Tangier Medina 4.JPG|thumbnail|Artisan in the medina of Tangier]] Remember that [[haggle|bargaining]] in the souks is expected. It is not really possible to give an accurate indication of how much to start the bargaining at in relation to the initial asking price, but a general idea would be to aim for approximately 50% off. Prices are set on a daily, even hourly, basis, depending on how much has been sold on a given day (or period of hours), while also reflecting the vendor's personal estimation of the potential client. The souks are often a good reflection of the basic economic principles of supply and demand, particularly with regard to the demand side. If a lot of products have been sold by a particular merchant he/she will raise the price, and may refuse to sell any more products for the rest of that day (or for days) unless the price is much higher than usual. If there are many tourists around prices go higher and bargaining even small amounts off the asking price becomes quite difficult. In addition, the seller will generally inspect the client, whose dress and possessions (particularly if the potential client sports an expensive Swiss watch, camera, etc.) are usually the main indication of how high the price may be set above the usual. However, the potential client's attitude is also taken into consideration. Taking all this and other factors into account (such as the time of day, day of the week, and season), initial prices may be up to 50 times or more in excess of normal prices, especially for more expensive items, such as carpets. '''Carpets''', however, are a very specialized item and it is necessary to have at least a cursory understanding of production techniques and qualities. If possible, an ability to distinguish between hand-made and machine-made carpets, hand-dyes, and the like is helpful to avoid being utterly duped. '''Bargaining is an enjoyable experience for most vendors''' and they prefer clients that don't appear hurried and are willing to take the time to negotiate. It is most often actually necessary to give reasons why you believe the price should be lower. The reasons you might give are limited only by your imagination and often lead to some very entertaining discussions. Common reasons may include: the price of the item elsewhere, the item not being exactly what you are after, the fact that you have purchased other items from the stall/store, that you have built a rapport with the vendor after discussing football and so forth. On the other hand, '''if there is little movement in the price after some time, the best advice is to begin leaving''', this often has the result of kick-starting the bidding anew, and if not, it is likely that the merchant is actually unwilling to go further below a given price, however absurd. It is also important to '''show a genuine interest in the workmanship''' of the product for sale, no matter how uninterested you may actually be in what you are buying. This does not, however, mean that you should appear over-enthusiastic, as this will encourage the vendor to hold his or her price. Rather, it is important to project a critical appreciation for each article/object. Any defects are either unacceptable or a further opportunity to bargain the price down. You should take caution to never begin bidding for unwanted items or to give the vendor a price you are unwilling or unable (with cash on hand) to pay. Try to avoid paying by credit card at all costs. In the event you do pay by credit card, never let it out of your sight and demand as many receipts as possible. There is typically a credit card carbon copy and an official shop receipt. '''Never tell a vendor where you are staying''' and '''never tell a vendor how much you paid for any other purchases'''. Just say you got a good price and you want a good price from him or her too. It's best to be politely passive aggressive, sometimes for hours if you really want to save a few dirhams. And, above all, never be afraid to say 'No'. It must also be said that, as is true for buyers, not all sellers are actually very good at what they do. A vendor that is completely uninterested or even aggressive is unlikely to give a good price. Move on. Last but not least, when you spend all of your holiday in the same place, especially in smaller, touristy towns: Vendors deal with tourists all the time. Most tourists buy souvenirs just before flying home, most tourists try the "walk out" trick as part of their bargaining strategies. It is not unheard of that tourists haggle for a carpet on a Friday, walk out and when they come back the next day, expecting a lower offer, the price actually increases. The vendor knows that you are likely to catch a flight the same day and that your second visit is actually your last chance to buy the carpet. ==Eat== [[File:Casa didier55 009.jpg|thumb|Casablanca's ''souk'']] {{see also|North African cuisine}} Moroccan cuisine is often reputed to be some of the best in the world, with countless dishes and variations proudly bearing the country's colonial and Arabic influences; see [[French cuisine]] and [[Middle Eastern cuisine]]. Unfortunately as a tourist through Morocco, especially if you're on a budget, you'll be limited to the handful of dishes that seem to have a monopoly on cafe and restaurant menus throughout the country. Most restaurants serve dishes foreign to Morocco considering that Moroccans can eat their domestic dishes at home. Apart from major cities, Moroccans do not generally eat out in restaurants so choice is generally limited to international fare such as French, Italian and Chinese cuisine. ===Traditional cuisine=== * '''''Bissara''''', a thick glop made from split peas and a generous wallop of olive oil can be found bubbling away near markets and in medinas in the mornings. Rarely available in touristy places. * '''Couscous''', made from semolina grains and steamed in a colander-like dish known as a ''couscoussière'' is a staple food for most North Africans. It can be served as an accompaniment to a stew or ''tagine'', or mixed with meat and vegetables and presented as a main course. Manual preparation (i.e. not "instant couscous") takes hours. Any restaurant that has couscous on the regular menu should be avoided, it will not be the real thing. But lots of restaurants serve couscous once a week (usually Fridays) for lunch and advertise this widely - they tend to make real couscous and often for much better prices. * '''Fish''' on southern beaches is usually very fresh (caught the same day) and cheap. A mixed fish plate comes for about 25 dirham at stalls in the markets of fishing villages, a huge plate of grilled sardines is 15-20 dirham. If bought fresh at the fish market, a kilogram of fish is 5-20 dirham (the latter for a small kind of tuna). Most restaurants in fishing towns have a BBQ in front and will grill any fish you bring them for 30 dirham (includes fries, a salad and bread). Fish is gutted on demand at the markets, just tell them how you want to prepare it (for a BBQ you get a nice butterfly cut, for tagine it is just gutted). A small tip of 1-2 dirham is appropriate for the gutting. * '''''Ghoulal''''': Land snails in a delicious, rich broth can be found at least as far south as Marrakesh at street food stalls. Servings start as low as 3 dirham, in Marrakesh's main square at 10 for the first serving, 5 for every subsequent serving. * '''''Harira''''' is a simple soup made from lentils, chick peas, lamb stock, tomatoes and vegetables, that is nourishing but light on the stomach and can be eaten as part of any meal. Most Moroccans have it at least once a week, many every day. It is even part of the traditional first meal after sunset during Ramadan in Morocco: dates, followed by harira. A serving starts at 3 dirham; on menus it is often referred to as just ''moroccan soup'' or in French, ''soupe marocaine''. It is probably the most "Moroccan" dish of all and one cannot really claim to have been to Morocco without having tried it at least once. * '''''Khlea''''' (also: '''''kaliya''''') might be more on the adventurous side, taste-wise: meat preserved in fat (mostly lamb, but camel too is produced on industrial scale), usually prepared in a tagine with egg and tomato. The result is very fatty, the meat has a very intense taste and is usually quite chewy. The upside: Starting at 15 dirham, this will get you going for half a day at least. Might be hard to get in touristy restaurants. * '''''Pastilla''''' is a popular delicacy in Morocco: Pulled meat in a flaky dough, topped with sugar and cinnamon. Originally made with pigeon fledglings, nowadays the most common variety is made with chicken, though lamb, beef or fish are sometimes used as well. It is sometimes available as a starter on demand, but the real thing is the size of a proper pie and takes hours to prepare. A proper, pre-ordered pigeon fledgling pastilla is at least 200 dirham, 300 to 400 dirham in most touristy places. A large pastilla serves 2 to 4 people. * '''''Sfenj''''': These deep fried donuts from unsweetened yeast dough, dusted with sugar, are a popular and very filling snack that can be found throughout the country for 1 dirham per piece. They want to be eaten very fresh. Look out for stalls with a huge bowl of hot oil. [[File:Tajine Moroccan.jpg|thumb|Tagine]] *'''Tagine''' (or ''tajine''): One cannot be in the country without seeing a "tagine the dish" on the menu or a "tagine, the cooking ware" in the wild at least once. The very short version is: a "tagine de ..." on a menu is a "steamed ... in a clay pot". Everything can go into a tagine, but restaurants offer only very few dishes using the same spice formulas, which might become boring soon - albeit, with some luck pigeon or khlea can be found: ** tagine de kefta: meatballs, usually with an egg and anything from "a few" to "lots of" vegetables; can be rather spicy ** tagine de légumes: vegetables only (but don't count on vegetarian broth) ** tagine de poulet: chicken, usually with preserved lemons ("en citron") ** tagine aux pruneaux: lamb or, rarely, beef, with prunes and almonds ** tagine de bœuf/agneau/dromadaire/chèvre: beef/lamb/camel/goat with vegetables ** tagine de(s) poisson/crevettes/poulpe: fish/shrimp/octopus (in coastal regions) ** * '''Msemen:''' kind of puff pastry pancakes that you can buy everywhere on the street. They can be sided to savory or sweet dishes. Most likely you will find msemen for breakfast, with boiled or smashed eggs, with spreadable cheese or with honey and jam. Something you can also find the stuffed version, with vegetables like tomato and onions. * Many cafés (see Drink) and restaurants also offer good value '''''petit déjeuner''''' breakfast deals, which basically include a tea or coffee, orange juice (''jus d'orange'') and a croissant or bread with marmalade from 10 dirham. * At many cheap eating places stews like loubia (white beans), adassa (lentils) and ker ain (sheep foot with chickpeas) are on offer. ===Snacks and fast food=== Snackers and budget watchers are well catered for in Morocco. '''Rotisserie chicken''' shops abound, where you can get a quarter chicken served with fries and salad for around 20 dirham. '''Sandwiches''' (from 10 dirham) served from rotisserie chicken shops or hole-in-the-wall establishments are also popular. These fresh crusty baguettes are stuffed with any number of fillings including tuna, chicken, ''brochettes'' and a variety of salads. This is all usually topped off with the obligatory wad of French fries stuffed into the sandwich and lashings of mayonnaise squeezed on top. You may also see hawkers and vendors selling a variety of '''nuts''', steamed '''broad beans''' and barbecued '''corn cobs'''. ==Drink== [[File:The menthe.jpg|thumbnail|A glass of mint tea]] === Water === Bottled water is widely available. Popular brands of water include Oulmes (sparkling) and Sidi Ali, Sidi Harazem and Ain Saiss Danone (still). The latter has a slightly mineral and metallic taste. Nothing with a high mineralization produced. As a rule, do not drink tap water at all in Morocco, even in hotels, unless your stomach is "trained": Overall the quality is excellent until it reaches the house and if there is a problem the government issues warnings in time, but how water is stored in the house and the condition of the plumbing is questionable. Since a 1l bottle of water is only 5 to 7 dirham, most travelers will prefer to stick to it instead of taking the risk of 2 days of diarrhea. === Tea === Any traveller will be offered '''mint tea''' at least once a day. Even the most financially modest Moroccan is equipped with a tea pot and a few glasses. Although sometimes the offer is more of a lure into a shop than a hospitable gesture, it is polite to accept. Before drinking, look the host in the eye and say ''"ba saha ou raha"'' or just '''saha''''. It means enjoy and relax and any local will be impressed with your language skills. Be aware, that this is not pure mint tea: It is green tea (gunpowder) to which mint is added after an initial steeping. As such, it can be pretty strong, especially if one is not used to caffeine. In deserts, it tends to be really strong. Varieties are tea with '''chiba''' (wormwood), available in the winter in the north and with safron, in the region of Ouarzazate. === Juice === Juice stands are everywhere in the towns, especially Marrakech, with a remarkable variety. Orange (''limon'') is most popular, but depending on the season vendors will sell nearly every fruit in existence. Pomegranate (''rumman'') is a winter favorite. In general the equipment and glasses are clean and the juice is safe to drink, but nothing is guaranteed. === Alcohol === Although a predominantly Muslim country, Morocco is '''not dry'''. Alcohol is available in some restaurants, bars, supermarkets (Carrefour and Attacadao), clubs, hotels and discos; some (not strictly legal) liquor stores can be found as well with some research. Lots of Moroccans enjoy a drink although it is disapproved of in public places. The local brew of choice carries the highly original name of Casablanca Beer. It is a full flavored lager and enjoyable with the local cuisine or as a refreshment. The other two major Moroccan beers are Flag Special and Stork. Also you can find local judeo-berber vodka, mild anise flavored and brewed from figs (beware, though, none is produced legally and quality control is non-existent - if the taste reminds you of furniture polish, stay away). Morocco also produces various wines - some of remarkable quality. A bottle in supermarkets start at 35 dirham and go up to 1,000 dirham; a good quality wine can already be had for 50 dirham. In most riads or hotels that serve food but no alcohol, explicitly asking for a bottle of wine will magically make it appear 20 minutes later, though with a markup of at least 100%. '''Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal even if you drank just one beer'''. === Places === Cafes and bars are mostly visited by men only, a solo woman may feel more comfortable having a drink or snack at a pastry shop or restaurant. This doesn't apply to couples though. ==Sleep== [[File:HOTEL CONTINENTAL TANGER MOROCCO APRIL 2013 (8735610038).jpg|thumbnail|Inside Hotel Continental, the grand old hotel of Tangier]] There are the usual more modern '''hotels''' or equivalent found anywhere in the big cities and larger towns around Morocco. On the lower end of the budget scale, HI-affiliated '''[[Hostels|youth hostels]]''' can be found in the major cities (dorm beds from around 50 dirham) while the cheapest '''budget hotels''' (singles from around 65 dirham) are usually located in the ''medina''. Newer, cleaner and slightly more expensive budget (singles from around 75 dirham) and mid-range hotels that are sprinkled throughout the ''ville nouvelles''. Hotels can sometimes be very basic and often lack hot water and showers, while others will charge you 5-10 dirham for a hot water shower. With the exception of large high end hotels, expect the hot water supply in hotels to not be as stable as in more established countries. In Marrakech, MHamid, near Ourzazate and possibly other places, the hot water temperature varies dramatically while you take a shower. Instead, consider public ''hammams'' as there are quite a lot of them in the ''medina'' and in rural areas. Hotels in Morocco are a matter of choice and fit every budget. Classified hotels are 1-star (simple) to 5-star (luxury), and are classified as an ''auberge'', ''riad'', rural ''gîtes d'étape'' or hotel. Stays usually include breakfast, and many include dinner. '''''Auberges''''' are found in the country or in rural small towns, and are built in the traditional mud (''kasbah'') style, many with wood burning fireplaces and salons or roof terraces for taking meals. Auberge are very comfortable, small and usually family run and owned. '''Riads''' are traditional Moroccan-style housing with a rectangular, multi-storey building and an enclosed interior courtyard/garden. They have thick walls which can serve to moderate the outside temperature fluctuations, making them cooler during the day. Riads are popular in [[Marrakech]], [[Essaouira]] and [[Fes]], or anywhere there is a medina (old city). They are usually small (about 6 rooms or less), clean and charming, often with to a lovely walled garden where breakfast is served on an inner patio or up on a roof terrace. Riads are usually too small to have a swimming pool, but may have what is called a tiny plunge pool to cool off in during summer months. Some riads are in former merchant houses or palaces and may have large opulent rooms and gardens. (Note, riads are constructed adjacent to one another, and often have smaller windows, letting in less sunshine, both of which can exacerbate '''bed bug''' infestations and make extermination difficult. Best to check mattress crevices/seams for bugs/carcasses or feces (which present as black dots). Mosquito repellents such as DEET can repel bed bugs to an extent, but do not kill them upon contact, like [[Permethrin]].) By the way, a '''dar''' is similar, but often has a closed roof. '''''Gîtes d'étape''''' are simple country inns and hostel style places, where mountain trekkers can grab a hot shower, a good meal, and have a roof over their head for one night. Because coastal towns and villages are the destinations of choice for Moroccans to escape the heat from July to early September and because most Moroccans prefer '''furnished apartments''' over hotels, those towns are swamped with apartments. In the summer months and at peak season for Europeans (Easter, Autumn Holidays and from Christmas until mid-February) people will wait at the roadside at the village entrance, waving with keys. In low season you'll have to ask around (any random person on the street will do). Prices range from 75-200 dirham in low season but can be a multiple in high season. If you want to spend more than just a few days, shop around: Within villages the prices don't vary much for comparable places, but quality of furniture, kitchen equipment, internet connection and TV do a lot. Desert '''bivouacs''' are traditional nomad carpeted wool tents with a mattress, sheets and blankets. You can shower at the auberge where you will also have breakfast. Many hotels, especially those in the ''medina'' have delightful roof terraces, both in cities and the countryside, where you can sleep if the weather's too hot. This will normally cost you 20-25 dirham and you're provided with mattresses and a warm blanket. Just ask the receptionist in the hotel/auberge/gite. If you want to ask in French, which works fairly well, you can say ''ca sera possible de dormir sur la terrace, s'il vous plait?'' Often you can bargain on the price and if it's more than 30 dirham you should bargain. For those looking to '''camp''', almost every town and city has a campground, although these can often be some way out of the centre. Many of these grounds have water, electricity and cafes. In rural areas and villages, locals are usually more than happy to let you camp on their property; just make sure you ask first. Wild camping is illegal and the fines are steep; though a friendly request to the local police chief will usually get you the permission. ==Learn== Most foreigners looking to study in Morocco are seeking either Arabic or French '''language courses'''. All major cities have language centres, and some will even arrange homestays with an Arabic-speaking family during your course. ==Work== Although Morocco has a highly diversified economy and encourages foreign participation in its economy, finding a job in Morocco can be difficult. With a very high rate of unemployment (12.9% as of May 2023), there is not enough work for people. Still, having a background an education different from that of most of the local workforce may give you an advantage. Much work is informal or seasonal, which is a problem for locals, but not necessarily for you. It will be very difficult to manage life in the country without knowing [[Arabic]], [[French]], or both, so try to acquire the necessary language skills if you wish to give working in Morocco a try. Further, networking matters greatly in Morocco and the importance of having connections in the country cannot be overstated. Try to find people who can help you out. As is the case throughout North Africa, the Middle East, and the Arab world, Moroccans take business relationships seriously and expect you to demonstrate sincere and genuine interest. ==Cope== [[File:Souk, Marrakech (2242326899).jpg|thumbnail|In medinas and souqs you may meet persistent touts and shopkeepers]] Some Moroccans that you meet on the streets have come up with dozens of ways to part you from your money. Keep your wits about you, but don't let your wariness stop you from accepting any offers of generous Moroccan hospitality. Put on a smile and greet everybody that greets you, but still be firm if you are not interested. This will leave you significantly better off than just ignoring them. ===Touts=== ''Faux guides'' and touts congregate around tourist areas and will offer to show you around the ''medinas'', help you find accommodation, take you to a handicraft warehouse, or even score some drugs. While these men can often be harmless, never accept drugs or other products from them. Be polite, but make it clear if you're not interested in their services, and if they get too persistent, head for a taxi, ''salon de thé'', or into the nearest shop - the shopkeeper will show the faux guide away. Though, if it's a shop frequented by tourists, the shopkeeper may be equally eager to get you to buy something. The best way to avoid Faux guides and touts is to avoid eye contact and ignore them, this will generally discourage them as they will try ''to invest'' their time in bothering another more willing tourist. Another way is to walk quickly; if eye contact happens just give them a smile, preferably a ''strong'' and ''beaming'' one rather than a ''shy'' one meaning ''no! thanks''. Responding to everything with a polite but firm ''la shokran'' (Arabic for "no, thank you") can be particularly effective, since it doesn't reveal your native language and is understood by bystanders whose attention the tout usually does not want; they might even tell him to leave you alone. Simply ''la'' would be considered rude in this context, but can be warranted as well. Pretending you only speak some exotic language and don't understand whatever they say can be an option, too. If you engage in arguing or a conversation with them, you will have a hell of time getting rid of them, as they are incredibly persistent and are masters in harassment, nothing really embarrasses them as they consider this being their way of earning their living. Some of the more common tactics to be aware of are as follows. *Many ''Faux guides'' will pretend they are students when they approach you and that they just want to practice their English and learn about your culture, invariably if you follow them, there is a big chance you will end up in a carpet or souvenirs shop. A variant is they will show you an English letter and will ask you to translate it for them, or will ask for your help to their English-speaking friend/cousin/relative etc. abroad. *In areas of the medina with much accommodation, many young touts will wait for tourists to show them to you their hotel, just to get some dirham. They will claim GPS is not working in the medina and routes are closed. Do not believe them, never tell them the name of your place, ignore them or try to walk them out. Often your accommodation is right where you expect it just a few meters apart from where you are intercepted by the touts. *Expect to be told that anywhere and everywhere is 'close' or they shout "medina there" (even though you are right in the middle of it). Invariably, this is just a way to lull you into trusting them and a con to get you to follow them instead. Do not do this! *Do not accept 'free gifts' from vendors. You will find that a group of people will approach you accusing you of stealing it, and will extort the price from you. *Always insist that prices are fixed beforehand. This is especially true for taxi fares, where trips around a city should cost no more than 20 dirham, in general, or be done on the meter. This cannot be stressed enough. In ''all'' situations (including Henna tattoos) always agree on a price before! ===Bargaining and getting fooled=== * When [[bargaining]], never name a price that you are not willing to pay. * At bus/train stations, people will tell you that there have been cancellations, and that you won't be able to get a bus/train. Again, this is almost always a con to get you to accept a hyped-up taxi fare. * In general, do not accept the services of people who approach you. * Never be afraid to say no. Do just not fall or give in to any tout behaviour, even if it is just a few euros. This makes it harder for future tourists, and it basically identifies you as being stupid, not knowing local customs and behaviour. ===Drugs=== Another favourite of scam artists. In cities around the Rif Mountains, especially [[Tetouan]] and [[Chefchaouen]], you will almost certainly be offered ''kif'' (dope). Some dealers will sell you the dope, then turn you in to the police for a cut of the ''baksheesh'' you pay to bribe your way out, while others will get you stoned before selling you lawn clippings in plasticine. ===Ticket inspectors=== On trains inspectors have reportedly attempted to extricate a few extra dirham from unsuspecting tourists by finding something 'wrong' with their tickets. Make sure your tickets are in order before you board, and if you find yourself being hassled, insist on taking the matter up with the station manager at your destination. ===Toilets=== Moroccan toilets, even those in hotels or restaurants, might lack '''toilet paper'''. It is worth buying a roll (French: "'''papier hygienique'''"). ===Talk=== Try to learn at least a phrasebook level of competency in French or Arabic (Spanish may help you in the North - but not largely). Just being able to say ''"Ith'hab!" or "Seer f'halek"'' ("Go Away!") may be useful to you... Many locals (especially the nice ones who are not trying to take advantage of you) will speak limited English. Making a real effort to speak Arabic or Moroccan Arabic means a great deal to many Moroccans, including the majority who are multilingual, and puts you at an advantage as regards scams and bargaining. If you can at least verify prices in French with locals, you could end up saving a lot of money. ===What to wear=== You won't need high and heavy mountain boots unless you go in the coldest time of the year like February: it's quite warm in the country even when it's heavily raining in November. For trekking in valleys, low trekking shoes will likely be enough. Even in medinas, streets are paved if not asphalted—just be sure your footwear is not toeless in the medina, as garbage services are limited and fish scraps from the markets and the like tend to end up on the street. However, many Moroccan homes, most cheaper hotels, and nearly all buses have no heating, and winter nights drop to zero; you may need more layers than you will expect. For a desert trip to dunes, ensure your pockets can be easily shaken out as sand gets in there very quickly. Laundry services are exceptionally few and far between, although some hotels will provide them for a price and dry cleaners are plentiful. A few laundromats or similar do exist in newer sections of some cities, but are hard to find. It won't save you money to buy new clothes instead of washing your old ones, but it's a close thing. ===Time=== Morocco operates Daylight Saving Time except for during Ramadan. The further south you go, the more people refuse to use daylight saving time (also called "political time" in contrast to "wild time"); state-run places there will always obey DST, merchants not necessarily. ==Stay safe== [[File:Camel guard at Mausoleum Mohammad V.JPG|thumbnail|upright|"Camel guard" on horse at Mausoleum Mohammad V, Rabat]] Overall, Morocco remains a relatively safe place. Like any country, Morocco has its share of problems. Many can be easily avoided by following common sense. Avoid dark alleys. Travel in a group whenever possible. Keep money and passports in a safety wallet or in a hotel safety deposit box. Keep backpacks and purses with you at all times. Make sure there is nothing important in outside or back pockets. Drug laws are incredibly harsh in Morocco, as are the laws against prostitution and the importation, distribution and production of pornography. === Religious matters === Although the Moroccan constitution allows for freedom of religion, the clause on religious freedom is loosely defined and widely open to interpretation. It is unwise to speak badly of [[Islam]], hand out non-Islamic religious literature, or encourage Moroccans to participate in religious debates. Such actions will attract unwanted attention from the authorities and people, including expatriates, have been arrested for engaging in such activities. Attempting to preach or proselytise is also unwise, and you can expect to be heavily punished by the Moroccan authorities for doing so. There's nothing wrong with bringing bibles and other religious texts into the country so long as you use them for personal use. === Women travellers === Women especially will experience constant harassment if alone, but this is usually just cat-calls and (disturbingly) hisses. Dark sunglasses make it easier to avoid eye contact. If someone won't leave you alone, don't feel the need to be polite, look for families, a busy shop, or a local woman and don't be afraid to ask for help. If you are so inclined, you could wear a ''hijab'' (headscarf), but this is not necessary. Morocco can be a liberal country and many Moroccan women do not wear headscarves. However, women should ''always'' dress conservatively (no low-cut tops, midriffs, or shorts), out of respect for the local culture. In cities, women can wear more revealing clothing, but as a general rule they should follow the lead from local women. Locals will also assume that Moroccan women venturing into ''ville nouvelle'' nightclubs or bars alone are prostitutes in search of clientèle. Foreign women entering such places will not be so considered but will be thought of as approachable. === Major annoyances === Be careful about being drugged, especially as a solo traveller. The common and easy-to-make drug GHB only lasts 3 hours and is undetectable in the body after 7 hours, so take action immediately if you are attacked. Hustlers can be a big problem for people travelling to Morocco, and Tangier in particular. It's often difficult to walk down the street without being accosted by somebody offering to give you directions or sell you something. Your best bet is to politely refuse their services and keep walking, as all they are after is money. There are some legitimate tour guides, but your guide will receive a commission on anything you buy while you're with them, so don't let yourself be pressured into purchasing anything you don't want. In certain places, hustlers will do their best to intimidate you, and they can be very clingy, insisting that you give them money or offering their 'services'. Don't be intimidated by this; usually a firm "No" does the trick. Some of them can get nasty and abusive but before it gets to that stage walk towards a shop or crowd. Most Moroccans would immediately tell the person off if they see that you are being harassed. === Dangerous areas === Armed fighting in the disputed areas of the Western Sahara is less frequent now, but clashes between government forces and the Polisario Front still occur. Don't wander too far off the beaten path either, as this region is also '''heavily-mined'''. Don't get too close to the Mauritanian border due to terrorism, kidnapping, and murder. === Dual nationals === Dual citizenship is recognised by Morocco. If you are regarded as Moroccan by the authorities, such as by being a dual citizen or having a Moroccan father, you will be treated as a Moroccan citizen. In the unlikely event you get arrested, run into any kind of legal trouble, or get detained, your embassy will have little influence in assisting you. === Natural disasters === {{see also|Earthquakes}} The country is located near the boundary between the African Plate and the Eurasian Plate, which is a seismically active zone. However, most earthquakes in Morocco are small and cause little damage. The last major earthquake – thought to be the deadliest since the 1960 Agadir earthquake – occurred in September 2023, culminating in thousands of deaths and injuries. Morocco's building standards are poor; many buildings are poorly constructed and are not able to withstand the full force of a major earthquake. === LGBT travellers === Morocco is ''not a safe'' destination for [[LGBT travel|gay and lesbian travellers]]; Morocco's cultural and legal systems view homosexuality as immoral and anti-LGBT sentiments are common among the population. Same-sex sexual activity is punishable by 6 months to 3 years imprisonment and a fine of up to 1000 dirhams. In 2014, a gay British traveller was prosecuted and imprisoned for four months after police found incriminating photographs on his phone. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Spice Market, Marakech (2242330035).jpg|thumbnail|Spices for sale]] ===General concerns=== *'''Inoculations''': No particular inoculations are needed for Morocco under normal circumstances, but check with the [http://www.cdc.gov/travel/ US's Centre for Disease Control (CDC) travel web pages] for any recent disease outbreaks. As with most travel, it makes good sense to have a recent tetanus immunization. Consider Hepatitis A and B inoculations. *'''Food and drink''': Avoid uncooked fruits and vegetables that you can not peel. Avoid any food that is not prepared when you order it (e.g. buffets). Usually fried and boiled foods are safe. Some travellers have also had problems with unrefrigerated condiments (such as mayonnaise) used in fast food outlets. *'''Water''': It is advisable to drink bottled water (check that the cap is sealed - some people might try to sell you tap water in recycled bottles). Be wary of ice or cordials that may be made with tap water. Some hotels provide free bottled water to guests and its wise to keep a supply in your room so as not to be tempted with tap water. *'''Shoes''': Keep your sandals for the beach. Moroccan streets double as garbage disposal areas and you may not want to wade through fish heads and chicken parts with open-toe shoes. *'''[[Malaria]]''': Present in the northern, coastal areas of the country but not a major problem. Take the usual precautions against being bitten (light coloured clothing, insect repellent, etc.) and if you are really worried see your doctor about anti-malarial medication before your departure. ===Medical help=== Morocco has a public and private health care system. Most of the private sector health services are located in Casablanca, Rabat and other larger cities. Outside the major cities, health services are limited. The level of healthcare is not at the same level as in Europe. There can be large differences between private and public hospitals. Medical treatment can be obtained from self-employed doctors, clinics and hospitals. Most general practitioners, specialists, and dentists are self-employed; look for signs saying "Docteur". An average doctor's check-up in a city costs 150-300 dirham. In general, the quality of their work is decent, but you can try to ask some locals for advice and recommendations. Specialist health care services are not always available. Dental care is of a reasonable standard and prices are in line with those in western countries. Staff in private and public hospitals are highly educated, but English is poorly spoken or not spoken at all. Doctors and nursing staff often speak French. In private clinics, language skills are more common. In public hospitals, emergency care is free of charge, but in practice foreigners are always required to pay for treatment, for example for overnight stays. Moroccan private hospitals offer a higher standard of care than the public sector and, if possible, it is advisable to go directly to a private clinic. If your condition in Morocco requires more complex treatment, it is advisable to seek the opinion of two different doctors. Payments for medical and hospital services are required from foreigners in cash. The possibility of payment by credit card is rare. Ambulance services may have to be paid in advance. Travellers to Morocco are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance. Hotels in major tourist areas may have their own clinic or doctor. They also provide treatment outside office hours. There are also doctors in Morocco who make home visits. If you are in northern Morocco near the Spanish regions of Ceuta or Melilla on the African continent, you can move to the Spanish side, where you can get treatment with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Morocco has a very large number of pharmacies in both urban and rural areas. You can usually find the contact details of the pharmacy on duty on the doors of pharmacies or by using internet search services. Pharmacies are denoted by a green cross, usually in neon. They sell medicines, contraceptives, and often beauty and related products. For minor problems, they double as a medical advisor. Be prepared to describe your problem even when you know exactly what you need. Most common prescription and over-the-counter medicines are readily available, but specialised medicines can be difficult to obtain. Sometimes pharmacies can order the medicine you need with short delivery times. Pharmacies can also provide information about medical services in your area. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} As in all of North Africa, the dominant religion is Islam, therefore, appropriate religious prohibitions and attitudes should be in order. If visiting a mosque, for example, be sure to be dressed conservatively and remove your shoes before entering it. === Social etiquette === * '''Moroccans are indirect communicators'''. They are tempered by the need to save face and protect and honour and they will avoid saying anything that could be construed as judgemental or negative. One's point is expressed in a roundabout way. * '''Do not beckon a Moroccan person directly''', even if they've done something wrong in your opinion. It is considered impolite. Under Moroccan law, you can be taken to court for this. * '''Kissing cheeks''' is practiced between members of the same gender, close friends, and family. You should not do this to someone of the opposite gender unless you're close to them. If in doubt, a '''handshake''' is the way to go. One way to demonstrate respect and sincerity: Touch your heart with your right hand after shaking someone's hand. * When greeting someone you don't know, '''always say "Salaam Alaykum"''' ("peace upon you"), which is the standard, formal greeting. In informal settings, people often greet each other with "Salaam". * '''The left hand is considered unhygienic'''. Try not to shake hands or accept something from someone with your left hand as it is considered impolite. * '''Moroccans respect their elders'''. If you come across someone who is older than you, give up your seat on public transportation for them. If you're waiting for a taxi, allow someone older to take your spot. You are expected to act politely around someone older than you, and it would be seen as rude manners if you attempt to challenge someone older than you. * Smoking kif or [[hashish]] is part of Moroccan culture and widely tolerated (though officially illegal). This said, it's frowned upon to smoke on crowded beaches or in cafes or restaurants without the owner's consent - it is OK, even expected, to ask for permission. * '''Dress smartly and conservatively in public'''. For men, it's advisable to wear long trousers and sleeved shirts, and women shouldn't wear see-through dresses. In hotels and beach clubs, there's no issue with donning swimsuits, bikinis, and shorts. * '''Public displays of affection aren't socially accepted'''. People can get arrested for doing this. === Things to avoid === Moroccans will understand that you are not fully aware of what's considered appropriate/inappropriate in their country, and they will usually be tolerant of your blunders. This said, there are some things which will be met with disapproval and you should avoid doing the following during your stay in the country. ====Politics==== * Political discourse tends to be highly sensitive in Morocco and some have been arrested for speaking out against the government and state institutions. Keep your political views to yourself. * The Moroccan royal family is protected by strict lèse–majesté laws and the constitution states that the reigning monarch is "inviolable". In other words, insulting, making fun of them, questioning their rule (this also includes advocating for republicanism), or speaking out against them is punishable by up to '''five years of imprisonment'''. * It is a social faux pas to discuss the royal family's economic power and involvement in the business world. * Avoid talking about [[Western Sahara]] and Sahrawi nationalism. Doing so could get you into trouble with the authorities. * Avoid talking about [[Algeria]]. Since the 1960s, the two countries have had strained relations and some Moroccans, particularly the older generations, harbor strong feelings towards Algeria and Algerian people. In 1975, Algeria expelled thousands of Moroccans from Algeria, separating many Moroccans from their family members. ====Symbols==== * According to the Moroccan penal code, it is '''illegal''' to show contempt – satirising, desecrating, and so on – for the symbols (the flag, the coat of arms, the national motto) of Morocco. ====Religion==== * [[Islam]] is the dominant religion in Morocco, and Islam plays an essential role in the lives of every Moroccan. During [[Ramadan]], you should refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing in public. Not doing so would be seen as highly disrespectful. The Jewish and Christian minorities are generally free to practise their religions. It is illegal to attempt to convert someone to any religion other than Islam. * Refrain from criticising or speaking badly about religion, and refrain from talking about religion from an agnostic point of view. Even highly educated Moroccans won't appreciate it. ==Connect== ===Telephone=== '''Public telephones''' can be found in city centres, but private '''telephone offices''' (also known as ''teleboutiques'' or ''telekiosques'') are also commonly used. The international dialling prefix (to dial ''out'' of the country) is 00. All normal numbers are ten digits long, counting the initial ''0'' (area code prefix) and the whole number must be dialled even for local calls within the same area code. ====Useful numbers==== :Police: '''19'''. Moroccan Royal Gendarmerie: '''17''' :Fire Service: '''15''' :Highway Emergency Service: '''177''' :Domestic directory: 160 :International directory: 120 :Telegrams and telephone: 140 :Intercity operator: 100 ====Mobile==== The mobile telephone network in Morocco can be accessed via one of the major operators: [http://www.orange.ma Orange], [http://www.inwi.ma Inwi] or [https://www.iam.ma/ Maroc Telecom] (IAM - ''Ittisalat Al Maghrib'', owned by Etisalat). Network coverage is generally good in populated areas and mostly also in the countryside. According to OpenSignal, all three providers are similarly good. Maroc Telecom has the best coverage in rural areas (including most parts of [[Western Sahara]]). The network of Maroc Telecom has also the best consistent quality. (updated September 2022) The three operators also each operate lower-budget virtual carriers: [https://win.ma/en win] (using Inwi's network), [https://www.yoxo.ma/ Yoxo] (using Orange's network), and [https://www.injoy.ma inJoy] (using IAM's network) (updated June 2025) More information on available services, coverage and roaming partners are available at: [http://www.gsmworld.com/roaming/gsminfo/cou_ma.shtml GSMWorld]. Beware that roaming with international cards from most countries is very expensive, so think about buying a local card. ====SIM cards==== SIM cards can be purchased, though some vendors require an ID; the card itself is free, the fee paid is credited to the account. The fee credited to the account is sufficient to make a few brief phone calls. They can be purchased in various shops that sport the official logo but not in all (rule of thumb: not in a kiosk, but any electronics shop works and of course the official stores of the companies). Some places that sell houseware goods may sell SIM, just ask the cashier. Arabic and French both use "SIM", repeating the word will either get you the SIM or directions to the next shop where you can get one. eSIM cards are available to purchase and activate entirely online for those phones which are compatible. As of May 2025, Maroc Telecom are offering an eSIM with unlimited 4G data over 14 days for 320.00 MAD. To activate the eSIM you need to complete set-up and then call '555'. Once activated, to finally get online, you need to text 'Internet' to 505, and your data will be connected within moments. The three virtual networks all also offer eSIMs: win by inwi in particular offers very good-value customisable plans and has a website fully available in English. (Yoko also has some competitive plans, but be warned of its more arduous cancellation policies than win.) '''Top-ups''' come in the form of scratch cards for 5 to 100 dirham which can be purchased anywhere, just look for the logo of the phone company. Many convenience stores that sell bottled water will also sell top-ups. The cards are used by sending the scratch code to some number which is explained on the scratch card itself: 555 for Maroc Telecom and Orange, 120 for INWI. When calling in to apply the top up to your account, keep in mind that the prompts will be in French or Arabic, so if you do not understand either, make arrangements for someone to assist you. Also keep in mind that when topping up, you will be given the option of applying the top up to data or to call time. '''Data plans''' are available for as little as 5 dirham per 500 MB. But 17 GB and 2 hr call, or 15 GB and 5 hr call can be had for as little as 100 dirham. While you can buy SIM cards at some Moroccan international airports from stalls operated by the major operators, the price is considerably higher than elsewhere, for instance in December 2024, the lowest price plan at Marrakech airport was 20 Euros (about 200 dirhams) for 20 GB and 5 hours talk talk. In contrast, a 30 dirham SIM card and a 50 dirham top up card, were sufficient in December 2024 to provide 7.5 GB of data and a brief amount of call time. ===Post=== [[File:L169 - Boîte aux lettres - Maroc.JPG|thumb|Moroccan letterbox]] The Moroccan postal service is generally reliable and offers a ''post restante'' service in major cities for a small fee. You will need some identification (preferably your passport) to collect your mail. Items shipped as '''freight''' are inspected at the post office before they are sent, so wait until this has been done before you seal the box. ===Email and internet=== Moroccans have really taken to the internet. '''Internet cafes''' are open late and are numerous in cities and smaller towns that see significant tourist traffic. Rates are 3-4 dirham per hour and they are often located next to, above, or below the ''telekiosque'' offices. Speeds are acceptable to excellent in the north, but can be a little on the slow side in rural areas. Most internet cafes will allow you to print and burn CDs for a small charge. Almost every restaurant and cafe offers wifi for free with usually acceptable speed. Moroccans have also really taken to 3G and 4G/LTE coverage. There is a good access to email and the internet via Mobile Phones and it is relatively inexpensive. There is 3G access even in the desert, as well as in all cities. You can easily use the mobile internet network by buying a prepaid card (see mobile section). For Maroc Telecom, data-only packages can be purchased by appending "*3" to the top-up code. As of 2017, fiber connections are rolled out throughout the country, with newly installed 4G-towers as backup. ==Go next== The land border can be crossed to Spain ([[Ceuta]] and [[Melilla]]) and to [[Mauretania]]. The border crossings to Algeria are generally closed. There are ferries to the [[Spain|Spanish mainland]]. {{isPartOf|North Africa}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|32|-6|zoom=6}} 0wgryd6jybqmxiocfjmtb8go61qpi3g 5091328 5091325 2025-07-11T10:35:40Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091328 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Aït Arbi (Maroc) banner Vallée des Gorges du Dadès.jpg|caption=The village of Aït Arbi in Saharan Morocco}} '''Morocco''' ([[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]: المغرب, ''Al-Maghrib''; [[Berber phrasebook|Berber]]: ⵍⵎⴰⵖⵔⵉⴱ, ''Elmaɣrib''; [[French phrasebook|French]]: ''Maroc'') is the northwesternmost country in [[Africa]]. Morocco has, for most people, been the gateway to [[Africa]]. With plenty of attractive locations, historical sights, and unique cultural traditions, there's lots to see and do in this beautiful, mesmerising country. At just a few hours from the main European cities, Morocco has everything to overwhelm you with the amazing colours, smells and sounds of Islamic Africa. Imagine bustling souqs and spice markets, stunning mosques, white-washed sea side towns and medieval city centres. With panoramic views varying from snow-covered peaks in the High Atlas to the endless sand dunes of the Sahara, no-one ever has to be bored in this beautiful country. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Map of Morocco.png | regionmaptext=Map of Morocco | regionmapsize=350px | region1name=[[Mediterranean Morocco]] | region1color=#d5b66b | region1items= | region1description= Home to several [[Spain|Spanish]] enclaves and serves as the country's main access point to the sea. | region2name=[[North Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|North Atlantic Coast]] | region2color=#d5dc76 | region2items= | region2description= Home of the [[Rabat|capital]] and [[Casablanca]]. The first entry point for the traveller. | region3name=[[South Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|South Atlantic Coast]] | region3color=#4da9c4 | region3items= | region3description=Home to gorgeous beach towns like [[Essaouira]] and [[Agadir]]. | region4name=[[High Atlas]] | region4color=#b383b3 | region4items= | region4description= Home to major cities like [[Marrakech]] and much of the ethnic Berber population. | region5name=[[Middle Atlas]] | region5color=#71b37b | region5items= | region5description=covering the Middle Atlas mountains and the surrounding areas including Fez and Meknes | region6name=[[Saharan Morocco]] | region6color=#d56d76 | region6items= | region6description= The vast desert region of Morocco and the country's least populated region. Offers the traveller a chance to explore a slice of the vast Saharan desert. | region7name=[[Anti Atlas]] | region7color=#a78379 | region7items= | region7description= Home of [[Taroudant]] and offers the traveller another chance to explore another slice of the vast Saharan desert. }} * '''[[Spanish North Africa]]''' includes [[Ceuta]], [[Melilla]] and a few other small territories at the Mediterranean sea, which are part of [[Spain]]. {{disclaimerbox|As travel conditions in the '''[[Western Sahara]]''' are remarkably different from a traveller's point of view, it is treated as its own entity. This '''should not''' be interpreted as a political endorsement of claims by any side in the sovereignty dispute.}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5b66b|title=[[Mediterranean Morocco]]|wikidata=Q14207241}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5dc76|title=[[North Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|North Atlantic Coast]]|wikidata=Q14204012}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#4da9c4|title=[[South Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|South Atlantic Coast]]|wikidata=Q14204036}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b383b3|title=[[High Atlas]]|wikidata=Q584279}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Middle Atlas]]|wikidata=Q1433137}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d56d76|title=[[Saharan Morocco]]|wikidata=Q14207244}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a78379|title=[[Anti Atlas]]|wikidata=Q574853}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|31.368|-5.587|zoom=6|height=600|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rabat]]|url=|lat=34.020882|long=-6.84165|wikidata=Q3551}} (Arabic: '''الرِّبَاط''', Berber: ⵕⵕⴱⴰⵟ) – the capital of Morocco; very relaxed and hassle-free, highlights include a 12th-century tower and minaret. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Agadir]]|url=|lat=30.433333|long=-9.6|wikidata=Q170525}} (Arabic: '''اكادير''', Berber: ⴰⴳⴰⴷⵉⵔ) – the town is a nice example of modern Morocco, best known for its beaches, with less emphasis on history and culture. Take the local bus for a few cents and go 2 or 3 villages north, where there are additional beaches. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Casablanca]]|url=|lat=33.533333|long=-7.583333|wikidata=Q7903}} (Arabic: '''الدار البيضاء''', Berber: ⴰⵏⴼⴰ) – this modern city by the sea is a starting point for visitors flying into the country. If you have the time, both the historical medina and the contemporary mosque (the third largest in the world) are well worth an afternoon. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fez]]|url=|lat=34.033333|long=-5|wikidata=Q80985}} (Arabic: '''فاس‎‎''', Berber: ⴼⴰⵙ) – the former capital of Morocco and home to the oldest university in the world, the Qarawiyyin University, in its well preserved old city. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Marrakech]]|url=|lat=31.63|long=-8.008889|wikidata=Q101625}} (Arabic: '''مراكش'''‎‎, Berber: ⴰⵎⵓⵔⴰⴽⵓⵛ) – a perfect combination of old and new Morocco. Plan to spend at least a few days wandering the huge maze of souks and ruins in the medina. The great plaza of Djeema El Fna at dusk is not to be missed. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Meknes]]|url=|lat=33.895|long=-5.554722|wikidata=Q178663}} (Arabic: '''مكناس''', Berber: ⴰⵎⴽⵏⴰⵙ) – a modern, laid-back city that offers a welcome break from the tourist crush of neighbouring [[Fez]]. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ouarzazate]]|url=|lat=30.916667|long=-6.916667|wikidata=Q505208}} (Arabic: '''ورزازات'''‎‎, Berber: ⵡⴰⵔⵣⴰⵣⴰⵜ) – considered the capital of the South, Ouarzazate is a great example of preservation and tourism that hasn't destroyed the feel of a fantastic and ancient city. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tangier]]|url=|lat=35.766667|long=-5.8|wikidata=Q126148}} (Arabic: '''طنجة'''‎‎, Berber: ⵜⵉⵏⴳⵉ) – the starting point for most visitors arriving by ferry from Spain. An enigmatic charm which has attracted numerous artists (Henri Matisse), musicians (Jimi Hendrix), politicians (Winston Churchill), writers (William S. Burroughs, Mark Twain) and others (Malcolm Forbes). *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tetouan]]|url=|lat=35.566667|long=-5.366667|wikidata=Q185157}} (Arabic: '''تطوان''', Berber: ⵜⵉⵟⵟⴰⵡⵉⵏ) – nice beaches and is the gateway to the Rif Mountains. ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[High Atlas]]|url=|lat=31.433333|long=-6.933333|wikidata=Q584279}} (Arabic: '''الاطلس الكبير''', Berber: ⴰⴷⵔⴰⵔ ⵏ ⴷⵔⵏ) – regular destination for mountain hikers, ski enthusiasts, or travellers interested in the indigenous Berber culture *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Merzouga]]|url=|lat=31.099167|long=-4.011667|wikidata=Q1922278}} (Arabic: '''مرزوقة''', Berber: ⵎⴰⵔⵣⵓⴳⴰ) and {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[M'Hamid]]|url=|lat=29.822222|long=-5.720833|wikidata=Q1014625}} (Arabic: '''محاميد الغزلان''', Berber: ⵜⴰⵔⴰⴳⴰⵍⵜ) – from either of these two settlements at the edge of the Sahara, ride a camel or 4x4 into the desert for a night (or a week) among the dunes and under the stars *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Tinerhir]]|url=|lat=31.514722|long=-5.532778|wikidata=Q335141}} (Arabic: '''تنغير''', Berber: ⵜⵉⵏⵖⵉⵔ) – desert oasis and access point to the stunning High Atlas *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Volubilis]]|url=|lat=34.071111|long=-5.553611|wikidata=Q391215}} (Arabic: '''وليلي''', Berber: ⵡⴰⵍⵉⵍⵉ) – the biggest Roman ruins in Morocco, 30 km north of [[Meknes]], next to the holy town of [[Moulay Idriss]] ==Understand== [[File:Morocco close location (orthographic).svg|thumb]] === Politics and government === The only constitutional monarchy in [[North Africa]], the '''Kingdom of Morocco''' is made up of 12 regions. It has one of the largest economies in Africa, and is an important player in Arab affairs, . ==== Name transcriptions ==== * [[Arabic]]: '''المملكة المغربية''', ''al-mamlaka al-maḡribiyya'' * [[Berber phrasebook|Berber]]: '''ⵜⴰⴳⵍⴷⵉⵜ ⵏ ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ''', ''Tageldit n lmeɣrib'' * [[French]]: '''Royaume du Maroc''' ===History=== {{see also|Islamic Golden Age}} The earliest known independent state of Morocco was the '''Berber Kingdom of Mauretania''' under King Baga. This kingdom dates back at least to 300 BCE. From the 1st century BCE, Morocco was part of the [[Roman Empire]] as '''Mauretania Tingitana'''. Christianity was introduced in the 2nd century CE and gained converts in the Roman towns, among slaves and Berber farmers. In the 5th century CE, as the Roman Empire declined, the region was invaded from the north by the Vandals and later the Visigoths. In the 6th century, northern Morocco became part of the Byzantine Empire. Throughout this time, however, the Berber inhabitants in the high mountains of the interior remained independent. In 670 CE, the first Islamic conquest of the North African coastal plain took place under Uqba ibn Nafi, a general serving under the Umayyads. The indigenous Berber tribes adopted [[Islam]], but retained their customary laws. They also paid taxes and tribute to the new Muslim administration. The first independent Muslim state in the area of modern Morocco was the Kingdom of Nekor, an emirate in the Rif Mountains. It was founded by Salih I ibn Mansur in 710, as a client state. After the outbreak of the Berber Revolt in 739, the Berbers formed other independent states such as the '''Miknasa''' of Sijilmasa and the '''Barghawata'''. According to medieval legend, Idris Ibn Abdallah fled to Morocco after the Abbasids' massacre of the tribes in Iraq. He convinced the Awraba tribes to break the allegiance to distant Abbasid caliphs in Baghdad and he founded the '''Idrisid Dynasty''' in 788. The Idrisids established Fez as their capital and Morocco became a centre of Muslim learning and major regional power. The Idrisids were ousted in 927 by the Fatimid Caliphate and their Miknasa allies. After Miknasa broke off relations with the Fatimids in 932, they were removed from power by the Maghrawa of Sijilmasa in 980. From the 11th century to the early 20th century onwards, a series of dynasties including the '''Almoravids''', '''Almohads''', '''Marinids''', '''Wattasids''', '''Saadis''' and '''Alaouites''' ruled Morocco until it was controlled by the Spanish and French. During World War II, Morocco became an Axis puppet under Vichy France in 1940, and became a refuge for affluent Europeans, famous through the film ''Casablanca''. Morocco was liberated in 1942 by American troops in Operation Torch (see [[World War II in Africa]]) and hosted the 1943 Casablanca conference. Morocco's long struggle for independence from France ended in 1956. The internationalized city of Tangier was turned over to the new country that same year. Morocco annexed [[Western Sahara]] during the late 1970s, and even though the status of the territory remains unresolved, all maps in Morocco show Western Sahara as an integrated part of Morocco. Gradual political reforms in the 1990s resulted in the establishment of a bicameral legislature in 1997, although the king still possesses the actual political power. The press is mostly state controlled even though there are free newspapers, and clampdowns have occurred following criticism of the authorities or articles concerning the Western Sahara situation. ===Culture=== Morocco has 34 million inhabitants. It's a good place to see varied cultural heritages including those with African, Arabic, Berber, Moorish and Western influences. Islam is by far the dominant religion, with 99% of the population being at least nominally Muslim. Christianity is the second largest religion, but most Christians in Morocco are expatriates from Western countries. Morocco used to have a large Jewish community, most of whom were Sephardic Jews whose ancestors fled the Spanish and Portuguese inquisitions, though the vast majority of them fled to Israel in the second half of the 20th century, and only a small community remains in Morocco today. Nevertheless, Morocco's Jewish community is the largest remaining one in an Arab country. ===Electricity and voltage=== {{see also|Electrical systems}} The voltage in Morocco is generally '''220 V''' (partly 127 V) 50 Hz, and outlets will fit the two-pin plug known as the ''Europlug'', probably the most commonly used international plug and included in most international plug adapter kits. It is ungrounded and designed for at most 2.5 A. American and Canadian appliances, which are built to use 110 V, may be damaged if they're plugged into a 220 V unless your appliance is "dual-voltage" (designed for both 110 and 220 V). If not, you'll need a '''transformer''' or '''converter''' (depending on the device) as well as an adapter. ===Holidays=== The biggest event on the Moroccan calendar is the month of [[Ramadan]], during which Muslims fast during the day time and break the fast at sunset. Most restaurants are closed for lunch (with the exception of those catering specifically to tourists), and things generally slow down. Travelling during this time is entirely possible, and the restrictions don't apply to non-Muslims, but it's respectful to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during the fast. At the end of the month is the holiday of '''Eid al-Fitr''', when practically everything closes for as long as a week and transport is packed as everybody heads back home. Alcohol consumption is not prohibited for tourists during Ramadan; there are a few restaurants and bars serving alcohol. Also, alcohol can be purchased in a supermarket, but only if a tourist shows their passport to the staff, as Moroccans are not allowed to buy or consume alcohol during the holy month. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.visitmorocco.com/ Visit Morocco] If you are adventurous at heart, a good time to visit Morocco for trekking in the desert is February. You can enjoy coastal areas or beaches at Essaouira in July. April is the best time to visit the imperial towns in Morocco. The peak tourist season in Morocco is July and August. {{clear|right}} ==Talk== [[File:Amz-plake province Tiznite.JPG|thumbnail|Road sign in Arabic, Berber and French]] {{See also|Moroccan Arabic phrasebook|Arabic phrasebook|Tashelhit phrasebook|French phrasebook}} {{infobox|Some common phrases in Moroccan Arabic:|* Salam: Hello * B'Saha: Good health to you (commonly used expression in Morocco) * Shukran: Thank you * Tanmirt: Thank you (in Tamazight) * Insha Allah: God willing }} The official languages of Morocco are '''[[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]] and [[Berber phrasebook|Berber]]'''. Many Moroccans are multilingual. As for European languages, younger people and people working in touristic areas are more likely to speak English, while older people and those in smaller towns might be more likely to speak some French. Mileage may vary though, of course, and knowing basics in both does help. If you are unsure, just ask which language someone prefers. '''[[Moroccan Arabic phrasebook|Moroccan Arabic]]''' (also known as '''Darija'''), the local vernacular, is spoken natively by about 91% of the population. The dialect is one of the toughest Arabic dialects to learn; native speakers of Arabic outside of Morocco often have trouble understanding the way Moroccans speak. Some consider the dialect a different language altogether. If you don't know the local dialect, do not despair: all Moroccans learn '''Modern Standard Arabic''' at school, so you should have no problems communicating in large cities. [[Tashelhit phrasebook|'''Tashelhit''']] and '''Central Morocco Tamazight''' are the most commonly spoken Berber languages. Tashelhit is mostly spoken in southwestern Morocco, whereas Central Morocco Tamazight is spoken in the Atlas Mountains region of central Morocco. '''[[French phrasebook|French]]''', although it has no official status in the country, is a second language for a lot of Moroccans. The language is held in high regard; French is taught in Moroccan schools from a young age and the language is used in many avenues such as business, government, and commerce. French is often used to transliterate Arabic words. For example, the name Abdullah is transliterated as Abdellah. '''[[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]''' is spoken by some Moroccans living in [[Mediterranean Morocco]]. Moroccans born during and before the 1950s – parts of Morocco were under the administration of [[Spain]] back then – are more likely to be competent in Spanish than their juniors. '''English''' is increasingly becoming popular in Morocco and the Moroccan government is keen on promoting the language. This being said, English is not widely spoken in Morocco and not everyone is happy with the government's decision to espouse English. Tourist destinations that have become popular with Northern European visitors, like [[Taghazout]] or [[Marrakech]], are where you will likely find the most English-speaking Moroccans. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Morocco.svg|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Morocco, with countries in green having visa-free access]] ===Entry requirements=== Morocco's visa policy is relatively liberal compared to other African countries; the country has numerous visa-free arrangements. Nationals of the following countries can enter Morocco visa-free: [[Europe#Get in|Schengen member states]], [[Algeria]], [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[Bahrain]], [[Brazil]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[China]], [[Côte d'Ivoire]], [[Croatia]], [[Republic of Congo]], [[Guinea]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Indonesia]], [[Ireland]], [[Japan]], [[Kuwait]], [[Libya]], [[Macau]], [[Malaysia]], [[Mali]], [[Mexico]], [[New Zealand]], [[Niger]], [[Oman]], [[Peru]], [[Philippines]], [[Qatar]], [[Russia]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Senegal]], [[Singapore]], [[South Korea]], [[Tunisia]], [[Turkey]], [[United Arab Emirates]], [[United Kingdom]], [[United States of America|United States]]. The Moroccan Embassy is usually the first port of call for tourists from countries needing a visa to enter Morocco. They charge the equivalent of UK £17 for a single entry and £26 for double or multiple entries. (Double or Multiple entries will be issued at the embassy's discretion). Visas are usually valid for three months and take around 5-6 working days to process. Visa requirements are completed application forms; four passport-size photos taken within the previous six months; a valid passport with at least one blank page and with a photocopy of the relevant data pages; Fee, payable by postal order only; a photocopy of all flight bookings and a photocopy of hotel reservation. Tourists can stay for up to 90 days, and visa extensions can be frustrating and time-consuming. (You may find it easier to duck into the Spanish-controlled [[Ceuta]] or [[Melilla]] and then re-enter Morocco for a new stamp). Anti-cholera '''vaccination certificates''' may be required of visitors coming from areas where this disease is prevalent and pets need a health certificate less than ten days old, and an anti-rabies certificate less than six months old. ===By plane=== [[File:ROYAL AIR MAROC BOEING 737-800 AND ATR72 AT MARRAKECH MENARA AIRPORT MOROCCO APRIL 2013 (8696076081).jpg|thumb|300px|Planes of the flag carrier Royal Air Maroc at [[Marrakech]] airport]] Major airlines that serve Morocco would most likely be landing at [[Casablanca]]. In addition to destinations across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, one can also fly intercontinental from [[New York City|New York]], [[Washington, D.C.]], [[Miami]], [[Montreal]], [[Rio de Janeiro]] and [[Sao Paulo]]. Other popular entry points include [[Marrakesh]], [[Agadir]], [[Fes]], [[Rabat]], and [[Tangier]], to which many European low-cost carriers fly either year-round or seasonally. '''[http://www.easyjet.com Easyjet]''' &mdash; Now fly at budget prices from [[London]] and [[Manchester]] to [[Marrakech]] and [[Casablanca]]. Another option is from [[CDG|Paris - Charles de Gaulle]] to [[Casablanca]]. '''[http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair]''' &mdash; flies to Morocco from [[Bergamo]], [[Girona]], [[Reus]], [[Madrid]], [[Brussels]], "Frankfurt"-[[Hahn]], Eindhoven, [[London]], [[Porto]]. Flying to [[Fez]] 3 times per week. Flights to Marrakesh are also available. '''[http://www.RoyalAirMaroc.com Royal Air Maroc]''' &mdash; The state airline, which drastically needs a price cut. '''Air Arabia Maroc''' owned by Air Arabia, is another low-cost carrier which flies to other Moroccan destinations, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Tunisia and Turkey. '''[http://www.bintercanarias.com Binter Canarias]''' &mdash; Flights from Canary Islands to Marrakesh. '''[http://www.emirates.com Emirates]''' &mdash; Flights from Dubai to Casablanca. Many visitors also fly to [[Gibraltar]] or [[Malaga]] (which are often considerably cheaper to get to) and take a ferry from [[Algeciras]], [[Tarifa]] or Gibraltar to [[Tangier]]. This is not recommended in summer as literally millions of Moroccans living in [[Europe]] use this passage during the summer holidays. ===By car=== You can enter via ferry or via the two only open border posts on land connected to the Spanish enclaves of [[Ceuta]] and [[Melilla]]. The frontier with Algeria has been closed since 1994. For the closest maritime connection you head for [[Algeciras]] or [[Tarifa]] in southern [[Spain]]. At Algeciras there are ferry services to Ceuta and [[Tangier]] that carry cars. Tarifa has a similar service to Tangier and this is the shortest and fastest route, just 35 minutes. It's possible also to enter by car from [[Mauritania]] via [[Dakhla]]. It might be hard to get into Morocco with a commercial vehicle. Camper vans are acceptable (but they must look like a camper van), but other commercial vehicles might get turned around and prevented from travelling onwards. If you want to take a commercial vehicle, and there is more than one person travelling, it may be worthwhile if a French-speaking person travels to any international border with Morocco of your choice and meets with the head of Customs before you bring in a commercial vehicle. ===By boat=== [[File:Intershipping Detroit Jet.JPG|thumbnail|Boarding a Tarifa - Tangier ferry]] There are several ferry connections to Morocco, mainly from [[Spain]]. The most popular one is from [[Algeciras]] to [[Tangier]], €37, approx 1 hr trip, another one is from the small port of [[Tarifa]], on the southernmost tip of mainland Spain. A free shuttle bus between Tarifa and Algeciras (25 min) is provided for all ferry passengers, so you will have no problems getting to the Algeciras train station. Other Spanish ports with connections to Morocco are [[Malaga]] and [[Almeria]] with departures to [[Melilla]] and the adjacent Moroccan town of [[Nador]]. Ferries from [[Marseille]] and the port of [[Sète]] near [[Montpellier]] in [[France]] also go to Tangier. However, they are rather expensive. The Italian towns of [[Genoa]] and [[Naples]] also have direct connections to Tangier. The British dependency of [[Gibraltar]] has irregular ferries to Tangier (no more than 2 departures per month). Ensure your ticket takes you to the right port, as for instance {{marker|type=go|name=Tanger Med port|lat=35.876528|long=-5.516655}} is 50 km from Tangier city. From the south of Spain (Estepona) a sailing yacht will take you for a few days to the north east of Morocco (Smir). ==Get around== With an area of 446,300 square kilometres (172,300 sq mi), Morocco is a relatively easy country to get around in. A trip from [[Taroudant]] to [[Rabat]] will easily take you 5½ hours by car, depending on traffic conditions. ===By train=== [[File:The train to Fes (3092552771).jpg|thumbnail|Moroccan intercity train]] [[File:Railways Morocco.png|thumb|350px]] Trains are generally the best option because of their speed, frequency and comfort. However, the network is limited, though it travels to many of the main tourist destinations. Two of the main lines, which both operate hourly most of the day are the following: * Al Boraq [[high speed rail]] train, traveling between [[Tangier]] and [[Casablanca]] via [[Rabat]] and Kenitra. Between Tangier and Casablanca, trains take about 2 hours 20 minutes to complete the journey. Until further construction takes place, only the portion between Tangier and Kenitra is along high speed rail, where it travels at 300 km/h, and otherwise the trains travel around 160 km/h. * Line between [[Marrakech]], Casablanca, Rabat, Kenitra, [[Meknes]], and [[Fez]]. While this is not a high speed train, much of journey is at 160 km/h. A branch line to Oujda starts at [[Sidi Kachem]] linking [[Meknes]] and [[Fez]] to the main lines. The rail network is operated by '''[https://www.oncf-voyages.ma/ ONCF]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. Tickets can be purchased both online and at stations and they are very cheap compared to Europe. For examples, Casablanca to Marrakech: 146 dirham for second class, 180 first, 2 hours 39 minutes. The only drawback with Moroccan trains are that they are very frequently delayed, so don't count on the timetables if you are in a hurry. People are incredibly sociable and friendly on the trains in Morocco and you will find yourself perpetually talking to strangers about your journey. Each new person will advise you on some new place you should go or invite you to their home for couscous. Stations in smaller cities are often poorly marked, and your fellow passengers will be more than happy to let you know where you are and when you should get off. It's expected to greet (''Salam'') new passengers entering your compartment, and if you bring fruit, cake, etc., it's common to offer the other passengers something as well. If you spend a little extra for 1st class you increase your chances of meeting someone proficient in many languages. There are three daily departures from Tangier, bound for either [[Oujda]] or Marrakech, although all of them can be used to reach either destination as there are corresponding trains in Sidi Kachem using the opposite branch of the train coming from Tangier. The night trains between Tangier and Marrakech offer couchettes for an extra 100 dirham. This is the only option if you would like to lie down sleeping as there are obstacles between the seats in regular compartments. In summer, train compartments can be hot, with passengers standing everywhere when all seats are taken. First class train cars are supposed to have working air conditioning, however, not all train cars with air conditioning have it in working mode, so it's advisable to bring with you plenty of water (there are no vending machines on [https://www.oncf-voyages.ma/ ONCF]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} trains, unlike SNCF or TrenItalia trains, and the conductor with a vending cart is not often easy to find). For example, the travel time between Tangier and Fez is about 5 hours and with no AC and no water, the ride can become unbearable in the summer desert heat. When you arrive at a station, to reaching the platform you'll need to validate your ticket (checkpoint at the entrance). ===By bus=== Luxury '''buses''' are the next best bet, with almost universal coverage, if somewhat odd departure times in some places. [http://www.ctm.ma/ '''CTM'''], [http://www.supratours.ma/ '''Supratours'''] and some smaller companies provide good comfort with reasonable prices. Supratours buses offer specific tickets to link with the rail system and are bookable on the train company website as Supratours is run by it. All bus companies charge for baggage separately, however CTM is the only one that does this officially and provides baggage receipts. On Supratours, whoever takes your bag will demand up to 20 dirham (pay no more than 5 dirham). Do not pay for luggage that you can take aboard with you and that fits in the overhead locker of between your feet. Touts will try to charge you for that, strongly refuse. Nearly every city has a central bus station (''Gare Routière'') where you can buy tickets to travel from region to region (and in some cities certain companies run their own stations - mostly that applies to the operators CTM (''Gare Voyage'') and partly Supratours). You can either choose the buses for tourists with air-conditioning and a TV. Or you can also take the local buses which cost only 25-50% of the tourist buses and are much more fun. They are not very comfortable, but you can get in contact with the local people and learn a lot about the country. The buses often take longer routes than the big ones, so you can see villages you would never get to as a "normal" tourist. For heat-sensitive people this is not advisable though, as locals may tell you that 35 degrees is "cool" and no reason for opening a window. The route from Rissani, Erfoud, and Er Rachidia to Meknes and Fez, while long, runs through the Middle and High Atlas and is particularly scenic. At the large bus stations (''Gare Routière''), always buy your ticket at the ticket window inside of the bus station. Otherwise you will mostly overpay. Several touts will approach you as you enter the bus station, and try to sell you a ticket. While a local will get a proper ticket with them (because they know the prices), tourists will most certainly be overcharged. Also, the ticket windows often (must) have prices and time tables displayed. You might get the ticket with the same guy that approached you in the beginning, but it will consequently be much cheaper. Local intercity buses can be entered along the highway or main road, where you will pay the conductor. Always ask for the price before entering, and if too high, refuse. At least the conductors will understand, that you will not board if too high and give you a good price. Supratours and CTM buses will not stop anywhere for you to enter except for the main bus stations&mdash;the driver is not allowed to sell tickets. Luxury buses operated by [http://www.ctm.ma CTM] are also inexpensive and offer an easier travelling experience than local buses. [http://www.supratours.ma/ Supratours], a major rival of CTM, complements the train network to Essaouira and all major Atlantic-coast towns south to Marrakech. CTM and Supratours tickets can often not be booked online directly with the bus operator using a foreign bank card. In this case, they can either be bought in person at the bus stations, or using [https://www.marrakechtickets.co.uk/ Marrakech Tickets]. Note that Marrakech Tickets will charge a significant fee and take a few hours (or even days) to process your request, which involves sending you an invoice by email. '''Local intercity buses''' are a completely valid choice for the hardier traveller, and often even have more leg room than the luxury buses although this may be just because the seat in front of you is disintegrating. They can be extraordinarily slow as they will stop for anyone, anywhere, and only luxury buses are air conditioned (and locals hate open windows). Although, one exception seems to be the [[Agadir]]-[[Essaouira]] route, where even local buses are very fast. Probably due to the number of buses on this route and the desire to pick up as many passengers as possible along the way (not going to happen if overtaken by another company). ===By e-hailing=== You can hail a taxi or private car with the apps of Careem, Heetch, Roby and InDrive. Uber stopped operations in Morocco in 2018{{go|lastedit=2024-05-21}} ===By taxi=== [[File:Grand Taxi Ait Melloul.jpg|thumb|Grand taxi]] Travel by taxi is common in Morocco. There are two sorts: *''Petit taxi'' used only within the area of the town *''Grand taxi'' can be used for trips between towns, and for larger groups ====Petit taxi==== Prices for petit taxi are reasonable, and it's the law that taxis in town should have a meter&mdash;although they are not always on. Insist that the driver starts the meter, although in the more touristy cities drivers will refuse point-blank. If not, ask for the fare before getting in (but it will be more expensive). You can and should bargain the fare down, ideally to an amount for which you have exact change, as the driver often doesn't have it. There often is a minimum fare for trips during the day and another during the night, both listed on a sticker along with other prices in the taxi. And because in some small cities, the metered fare is always lower than the minimum fare, trips are not metered there, and the price is fixed at the minimum fare. In such cities without metered taxis, those stickers are sometimes missing as well. Ask an uninvolved local whether there is such a minimum fare and how high it is (7 dirham is reasonable during the day, 10 at night). Petit taxis are not allowed to leave the city borders and is thus not an option for travelling between cities. ====Grand taxi==== [[File:Morocco, Souss-Massa-Draa Region, Ouarzazate Province, Tazenakht (4).JPG|thumbnail|Grand taxis are often 1970s and 1980s Peugeots and Mercedes]] The grand taxi is a shared, generally long-distance taxi, with a fixed rate for specific route; the driver stopping and picking up passengers like a bus. Grand taxis are usually found near main bus stops. Negotiate on price if you want a journey to yourself and this will be based on distance travelled and whether you are returning—but price per taxi should not depend on the number of passengers in your group. When sharing grand taxi with others, drivers may cheat tourist-looking passengers charging higher—look how much locals around you pay; don't worry to ask other passengers about the normal price, before boarding or even when you're in. Fares are semi-fixed and shared equally between passengers. However, there are six passenger seats per car not four (this is for the ubiquitous Mercedes, there are 8 or 9 seats in the bigger Peugeots in the southeast). Two people are expected to share the front seat, with four across the back. If you want to leave immediately or you want extra space you can pay for any additional empty seats. Grand taxis generally cost less than a luxury bus but more than the local bus. Late at night, expect to be charged a little more than at daytime, and also to pay for all the seats in the car as other customers probably won't show up that late. Grand taxis formerly were 10-year-old Mercedes, regular saloon cars that in Europe are used for up to 4 passengers plus driver. However, nowadays they are replaced more and more by Peugeot vans. For a grand taxi, it is normal to share a car between up to 6 passengers. The front seat is normally given to two women. Some travellers often pay for 2 seats that remain unoccupied to travel with more space inside, and hence comfort. Beware, some taxi drivers will refuse to drive off until the taxi is full, potentially causing you delays. Alternatively, for a relatively reasonable sum (depending on the driver), you can hire a grand taxi in Marrakech for the entire day, allowing you to explore the sights of the surrounding region. Most grand taxis operate only on a single route and that for trips outside of their licensed route they need to get permission from police first. Taxi owners vie with each other to add extras such as sunshades. A clean vehicle and smart driver is usually a good sign of a well maintained vehicle. Grand taxis can also be hired '''privately''' for approximately the price of two petit taxis for shorter trips. This is useful if your party is of four or more. If you plan to take a grand taxi for a custom tour it is best to book one day ahead to give the driver time to get this permission. ===By plane=== Domestic flying is not a popular means of transportation; however, Royal Air Maroc, the national flag carrier, has an excellent but expensive network to most cities. Air Arabia is another choice. Starting in 2024, European low-cost carrier [https://www.ryanair.com Ryanair] operates 11 domestic routes in Morocco between several cities for fares starting as low as 190 dirham, and may even beat the train on both speed and price in some cases, though with limited frequency and baggage allowances. ===By tramway=== The [http://www.casatramway.ma/ Casablanca tramway] is 30 km long, with 49 stops, and Y-shaped. Tickets cost 6 dirham; buy your ticket before boarding. You have a choice between a rechargeable ticket valid for 10 journeys only, or a rechargeable card, valid for 4 years. This is, after the [http://www.tram-way.ma Rabat-Salé tramway]{{Dead link|date=July 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, the second tram system in Morocco, but also the largest system in number of stations and the length of the route. ===By car=== {{see also|Driving in Morocco}} In many ways the traffic culture is different from what you would experience in western countries. The main road network is in good condition but due to the lack of dedicated cycling lanes and pedestrian paths in all but the largest cities, they are shared by many cyclists, pedestrians and horse-drawn vehicles. Roads have a good surface, although some are very narrow, in most cases only one narrow lane in each direction. Many roads in the south marked as sealed actually have only a central strip, one lane wide, sealed with wide shoulders to be used every time you meet oncoming traffic and this is a sensible economic solution in these areas of sparse traffic and long straight roads – except when you can not see oncoming traffic because of windblown dust! Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly illegal even if you drink just one beer. ===By thumb=== Hitching is a routine form of travel in Morocco. Particularly in large farm trucks which supplement income by picking up paying passengers. Price is about half that of a grand taxi. Expect to ride in the back with lots of locals. ==See== [[File:Maroc Marrakech Jemaa-el-Fna Luc Viatour.JPG|thumbnail|Jemaa-el-Fna square in Marrakech]] [[File:Chefchaouen, Morocco (5409528959) (3).jpg|thumbnail|Chefchaouen]] [[File:02-beach-agadir-morocco.JPG|thumbnail|At the beach of Agadir]] Movie-famous '''[[Casablanca]]''' might be the most famous of Moroccan cities and is home to the huge '''Hassan II mosque''', the second largest mosque in the world with only the Grand Mosque of Mecca surpassing it. Many travellers quickly leave this vibrant and modernist metropolis on a search for a more traditional Moroccan experience, but admiring the impressive colonial architecture, Hispano-Moorish and art-deco outlook of the city centre is actually time well spent. '''[[Marrakesh]]''', known as the "Red City" and probably the most prominent former imperial capital, will leave you with memories to cherish for life. Spend your days wandering through the lively souqs, admiring the old '''gates and defense walls''', see the Saadian Tombs, the remnants of the El Badi Palace and visit the Koutoubia Mosque with its 12th century minaret. However, when evening falls make sure to head back to '''Jamaa el-Fnaa''', the largest square in Africa, as it fills up with steam-producing food stalls. Indulge in the bustling activity there, listen to Arabic story tellers, watch magicians and Chleuh dancers. '''[[Fez]]''', once Morocco's capital, is another gorgeous imperial city. Get lost in its lovely labyrinth of narrow Medieval streets, enjoy its huge medina, see the beautiful city gates, the ancient '''University of Al-Karaouine''' and the '''Bou Inania Madrasa'''. Also, make sure to visit a traditional '''leather tanning factory'''. The city of '''[[Meknes]]''' is often called the "Versailles of Morocco" for its beauty. Its lovely Spanish-Moorish style centre is surrounded by tall city walls with impressive gates and you'll be able to see the 17th century blend of European and Islamic cultures even today. For a more laid-back experience of medina life, catch a sea breeze at the coastal towns of '''[[Asilah]]''' or lovely '''[[Essaouira]]'''. The blue-washed town of '''[[Chefchaouen]]''' is an old time travellers' favourite and a great starting point to explore the Rif Mountains. Other impressive mountain scenery can be in found in the Atlas Mountains. On your way to the desert, make sure not to miss the stunning '''Todra gorge''' near [[Tinghir]]. The ancient fortified city of '''[[Aït-Benhaddou]]''' is another must-see sight. Although rainstorms damage the mud-brick kasbahs time and again, this mostly abandoned village remains an impressive sight and has been the décor for a range of movies, including ''Lawrence of Arabia'' and ''Gladiator''. The Kingdom of Morocco retains a number of '''royal residential palaces''' dating to the late 12th century. They are often known as '''Dar al-Makhzen''', in reference to its monarchical institution. ==Do== ===Trekking=== Climb North Africa's highest mountain '''Mt. Toubkal''' (''Jebel Toubkal'') from [[Imlil]], passing lovely adobe villages and exploring the gorgeous Ourika and Amizmiz valleys on the way. Or just trek the [[High Atlas]] mountains. The stunning panoramic views from the top will make it worth every bit of your effort to get there. Other praised hiking routes lead through the beautiful Ameln Valley in the Anti-Atlas and the forests of the '''[[Middle Atlas]]'''. ===Tourist tours=== Marrakech can make a good base for tours all over Morocco, from exploring the [[High Atlas]], over riding the camel or quad, to 1-4 days '''Sahara treks'''. A sheer endless number of tour providers are waiting for the willing-to-pay tourist. Hop on a camel back for a trip through the golden '''Sahara sand dunes''' at [[Erg Chebbi]], near [[Merzouga]]. Spend the night in a desert tent, under the incredibly starred sky. Somewhat less easy to reach but therefor also less crowded are the dunes of [[Erg Chigaga]] near [[M'hamid]]. ===Hammams=== [[File:2006 Chefchaouen-Hamam.jpg|thumbnail|Hammam in Chefchaouen]] There are two types of Hammam (steam baths) across Morocco. The first is the '''tourist hammam''', where you can go and be pampered and scrubbed by an experienced staff member. As these are promoted only to tourists, they are the more expensive option with pricing usually around 150 dirham for a hammam. They are not proper hammams, but they are nonetheless enjoyable, especially for the timid. Your hotel can recommend a good one. The second option is to visit a '''"popular" Hammam'''. Popular hammams are the places where the locals go. Ask the staff at your hotel where they would go. At the popular hammams, you do it all yourself. To make the most of a popular hammam, you need to take a scrubbing mitten (available cheap in the souks), a towel, and some extra underwear (otherwise, you will be going home without any, as it will be sopping wet). Popular hammams are often only identified by tiles around a door and entrance way. If you do not speak French or Arabic, it could be a daunting, or at least a very memorable, experience. Men & women have either separate session times or separate hammams. '''Nudity in a popular hammam is strictly forbidden''' for men, so be prepared to wear your underwear or a bathing suit. For women, you'll see some wearing underwear and some going naked. Whilst in a popular hammam, you may be offered help and a massage from another person. It is essential to remember that this '''massage is nothing but a massage''', with no other intentions. Sexual contact or presumption of sexual contact does not occur in these places. If you accept a massage, be prepared to return the favour. Normal entrance prices for a popular hammam are {{MAD|7-15}}, a scrub will cost around {{MAD|30}}, and a massage another {{MAD|30}}. === Sports === * '''Football:''' the men's national soccer team play internationals at various venues. The top tiers for clubs are Botola 1 and 2, each with 16 teams, and an August-May playing season as in Europe. : Africa Cup of Nations is staged in Morocco 21 Dec 2025 – 18 Jan 2026, with 16 national men's teams competing. The host cities are Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Marrakesh, Agadir and Fez. European clubs are grumbling at this timing as they have to release their African star players for a month. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Moroccan dirham | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;dirham | date=January 2025 | USD=9.0 | EUR=10.5 | GBP=12.5 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mad-moroccan-dirham XE.com] }} [[File:Moroccan dirham.jpg|thumb|Dirham banknotes, with Hassan Tower in the background ([[Rabat]])]] The local currency is the '''Moroccan dirham''', sometimes symbolised as "'''Dh'''", "'''Dhs''', "'''DH'''", "'''درهم''', or the plural form of "'''دراهم'''" or "'''Dhm'''" (ISO code: '''MAD'''). Wikivoyage articles will use ''dirham'' to denote the currency. It's divided into 100 santime or centimes (c). There are coins in denominations of 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, 1, 2, 5 and 10 dirham, although coins smaller than 20c are rarely seen in circulation these days. Banknotes are available in denominations of 20, 50, 100 and 200 dirham. While the dirham is the only currency officially accepted in Morocco, some hotels may accept your euros and US dollars unofficially. Try to have as many small notes as possible, even accommodations tend to never have any change ready. But also in general, keep larger bills hidden separately, just in case. Prices in Morocco are quite stable, i.e. the references you find in this guide, even if a couple of years old, are very reliable. '''Note:''' Dirham may generally not be exported or imported. A tolerance of 2,000 dirham applies to tourists; more information can be found at the [http://www.douane.gov.ma/ Moroccan customs website]. ==== Money exchange ==== It is illegal to take more than 2,000 dirham of local currency out of the country, so you can't buy dirham outside of Morocco. Airport security conduct periodic currency checks and will confiscate dirham to be taken out of the country. By law, exchange rates should be the same at all banks and official exchanges. Make a note of the exact rates before you go to make sure you're getting a fair deal. Besides banks and dedicated exchange offices, major post offices provide exchange, and work until late hours. Don't expect to see many banks in the ''souqs'' or ''medinas'', although in larger cities there is often an ATM near the main gates, and even one or two inside the large souqs (if you manage to find your way). You may also encounter "helpful" people who will exchange US dollars or euros for dirham. Unofficial exchange on the streets outside souqs or medinas doesn't seem to exist. While changing money from a common widely used currency (e.g. USD or Euros) to dirhams will be easy in cities regularly visited by tourists, changing from dirhams to another currency due to a number of barriers, which include: * For foreigners, the Official "Bureau de Change" won't change dirhams to other currency unless the foreigner has a receipt showing they changed at least that amount of currency into dirhams through a money changer. An ATM withdrawal receipt will not be accepted as proof of currency conversion. * Except at Morocco's international airports, money changers are not permitted to change dirhams into a foreign currency, unless the person seeking the money change has a Moroccan identification card. * If you are flying in the early morning or late evening, money changers at the airport may all be closed. For instance at Rabat airport, money changers do not open until 7 am. * On Sundays, if you are changing money to dirhams, non-bank money changers may not issue receipts. Due to these barriers, it is recommended that you: * If possible, take flights out of the country during the daytime or early to mid evening. * Bring some foreign currency and change it in Morocco, so that you can change what you have leftover at the end of your trip out of dirhams. * Prior to changing money to dirhams, confirm that you will receive a receipt. * Minimize the amount of cash in dirhams that you will have at the end of your trip. ==== ATMs ==== ATMs can be found near tourist hotels and in the modern ''ville nouvelle'' shopping districts. Make sure that the ATM accepts foreign cards (look for the Maestro, Cirrus or Plus logos) ''before'' you put your card in. Also be aware that they are not refilled during weekends in smaller towns, so get enough cash for the weekend on Friday or Saturday morning. As of March 2024, the Al Barid bank does not charge '''ATM fees'''. Also for local banks it's more likely that withdrawing money is for free (apart from the fee your bank charges). About 30 dirham are charged for withdrawals by some banks like Société Générale, BCME, Bank Populaire, BMCI (BNP Paribas), Attijariwafa and others. It could happen that an ATM does not display any fees, you don't get a receipt and on your bank account you notice that they charged anyhow. Talk to your bank and try to reject these fees to make this practice harder in the future. For buying something: If there is no price tag, '''ask for the price first'''. ==== Payment at the airport ==== In event that you plan on spending your remaining dirhams at a Moroccan airport, please note that: * Prices at the stores are shown in Euros, not dirhams. * Expect that some stores will not accept dirhams and some may only accept dirhams for select items in the store. * Like many countries' airports, the cost of some purchases may be multiple times the cost of buying it elsewhere. ===Shopping=== {{infobox|What does it cost? (May 2019)|* Oranges: 4 dirham/kg * Bananas: 8-10 dirham/kg * Melon: 8 dirham/kg * Dates: 10-30 dirham/kg, depending on the quality * Dried Curcuma roots: 50 dirham/kg * Water 1.5 l: 5-6 dirham * Coke 0.5 l: 5.50 dirham * Thé a la menthe / cafe noir: 6-8 dirham * Tagin or couscous: 25-60 dirham, depending on how touristy * Grand taxi: 50-60 dirham / 100 km * Bus: 20-30 dirham / 100 km * Double room: from 170-300 dirham * Pack of Marlboros: 35 dirham * Tobacco for shisha: 20 dirham * Argan oil: from 20 dirham / 100 ml * Rhassoul/ghassoul ½ kg: 8 dirham * Small "silver" teapot (2-3 cups): 10-15 dirham + 30 dirham for heat glove |}} ====What to buy==== [[File:Souks Marrakech 039.JPG|thumbnail|Souvenir shop in the souq of Marrakech]] Apart from classic tourist souvenirs like postcards and trinkets, here are some things from this region that are hard to find elsewhere, or even unique: * '''Birad''' &ndash; Classic Moroccan tea pots. * '''Carpets''' &ndash; Genuine handmade Berber carpets can be purchased direct from the artisans who weave them. If you go to small villages, such as Anzal, in the province of Ouarzazate, you can visit the weavers, watch them work, and they will happily serve you tea and show you their products. * '''Dates''' &ndash; 10 dirham for an orange box seems an adequate price after some bargaining. However, in Europe dates are quite cheap as well, especially when bought at Middle Eastern or Turkish shops. In the end, how much sugar is really good for you? * '''Djellabah''' &ndash; Classic Moroccan designer robe with a hood. Often come in intricate designs and some are suited for warm weather while other heavier styles are for the cold. * '''Leatherware''' &ndash; Morocco has a really huge production of leather goods. Markets are full of mediocre models (you will notice that they use the same cuts and zippers for all the different types of cloths) and designer shops are hard to find. Instead, maybe you want to opt for pure leather itself and do the good work yourself back home&mdash;purses, vests, whatever ... stitching and sewing is becoming more and more popular in Europe again. * '''Rhassoul/ghassoul''' &ndash; Also called wash soil in Europe, where it costs about 10 times as much as in Morocco. * '''T-shirts''' &ndash; If you're looking for T-shirts, consider designer items by Kawibi&mdash;they look much more inspiring than boring traditional set of themes. They are available in duty-free stores, Atlas Airport Hotel near Casablanca and other places. * '''Spices and black soap:''' Morocco is famous for its spices and you will see black soap at every herbs shops in the Medinas. Although spices markets are beautiful and perfect for pictures, the cheapest place to buy them is probably Carrefour. If you get the chance, go to the big supermarkets 5 - 10 km outside the centre of the cities, where you will find the same spices they sell in the Medina, but for one tenth of the price! ====What not to buy==== * '''Geodes''' &ndash; Pink and purple dyed quartz are widely sold along with fake galena geodes which are often described as "cobalt geodes". * '''Trilobite fossils''' &ndash; Unless you are an expert, you will most likely be buying a fake. * '''Artisanal''' or '''cooperative''' &ndash; These are catch phrases put up for tourists and just mean an increased price, but not necessarily higher quality or higher sustainability. Such facts can barely be verified and whether an oil is good or not is a poker game. Either way, you are always better off buying where locals do, because there you can expect quality also locals would go for. Get advice from your ho(s)tel staff where to buy good quality and at what price, but never let them show you directly. And if they say it is their cousin or friend, it is better to avoid it. Then go around the market for even more asking and checking of the lower price barrier of the merchants. Only after that decide what to buy and at what price. * '''Argan oil''' &ndash; Forget about it. It is impossible to tell whether you got something proper. Just because a lady in the shop is kneading stuff in oil, doesn't mean it is anyhow related to the oil they sell. Just because a pressing machine is inside the shop, and they claim to use it to get the oil, it does not mean they actually do so. Just because your guide or the shop owner claim it is the best Argan oil around, doesn't mean it is. Just because they claim it is locally produced, organic (bio), artesanal, from a collective or has fancy logos and graphics, does not mean it is actually genuine&mdash;there is no such thing as a proper Moroccan certification. And just because the price is high does not mean either, it is good quality. Margins for Argan Oil are high, it is hard to identify genuine oil, and tourists are begging to be ripped off ... it only makes sense that this is a big scam you should avoid. Nevertheless, if you are really keen on getting some oil, look up the price for Argan oil in Europe&mdash;it is about €16/250 ml. Only this is what you should use as a base for bargaining. But you are probably better off not paying more than half than that in Morocco. Probably buying in a regular supermarket would be the best idea. Note that of course 100 ml bottles are sold at a far higher price (for tourists in little shops), because they can be carried as hand luggage .... so, what is really the point in the end in paying more than at home, and not even being sure about the product's quality? ===Bargaining=== [[File:Tangier Medina 4.JPG|thumbnail|Artisan in the medina of Tangier]] Remember that [[haggle|bargaining]] in the souks is expected. It is not really possible to give an accurate indication of how much to start the bargaining at in relation to the initial asking price, but a general idea would be to aim for approximately 50% off. Prices are set on a daily, even hourly, basis, depending on how much has been sold on a given day (or period of hours), while also reflecting the vendor's personal estimation of the potential client. The souks are often a good reflection of the basic economic principles of supply and demand, particularly with regard to the demand side. If a lot of products have been sold by a particular merchant he/she will raise the price, and may refuse to sell any more products for the rest of that day (or for days) unless the price is much higher than usual. If there are many tourists around prices go higher and bargaining even small amounts off the asking price becomes quite difficult. In addition, the seller will generally inspect the client, whose dress and possessions (particularly if the potential client sports an expensive Swiss watch, camera, etc.) are usually the main indication of how high the price may be set above the usual. However, the potential client's attitude is also taken into consideration. Taking all this and other factors into account (such as the time of day, day of the week, and season), initial prices may be up to 50 times or more in excess of normal prices, especially for more expensive items, such as carpets. '''Carpets''', however, are a very specialized item and it is necessary to have at least a cursory understanding of production techniques and qualities. If possible, an ability to distinguish between hand-made and machine-made carpets, hand-dyes, and the like is helpful to avoid being utterly duped. '''Bargaining is an enjoyable experience for most vendors''' and they prefer clients that don't appear hurried and are willing to take the time to negotiate. It is most often actually necessary to give reasons why you believe the price should be lower. The reasons you might give are limited only by your imagination and often lead to some very entertaining discussions. Common reasons may include: the price of the item elsewhere, the item not being exactly what you are after, the fact that you have purchased other items from the stall/store, that you have built a rapport with the vendor after discussing football and so forth. On the other hand, '''if there is little movement in the price after some time, the best advice is to begin leaving''', this often has the result of kick-starting the bidding anew, and if not, it is likely that the merchant is actually unwilling to go further below a given price, however absurd. It is also important to '''show a genuine interest in the workmanship''' of the product for sale, no matter how uninterested you may actually be in what you are buying. This does not, however, mean that you should appear over-enthusiastic, as this will encourage the vendor to hold his or her price. Rather, it is important to project a critical appreciation for each article/object. Any defects are either unacceptable or a further opportunity to bargain the price down. You should take caution to never begin bidding for unwanted items or to give the vendor a price you are unwilling or unable (with cash on hand) to pay. Try to avoid paying by credit card at all costs. In the event you do pay by credit card, never let it out of your sight and demand as many receipts as possible. There is typically a credit card carbon copy and an official shop receipt. '''Never tell a vendor where you are staying''' and '''never tell a vendor how much you paid for any other purchases'''. Just say you got a good price and you want a good price from him or her too. It's best to be politely passive aggressive, sometimes for hours if you really want to save a few dirhams. And, above all, never be afraid to say 'No'. It must also be said that, as is true for buyers, not all sellers are actually very good at what they do. A vendor that is completely uninterested or even aggressive is unlikely to give a good price. Move on. Last but not least, when you spend all of your holiday in the same place, especially in smaller, touristy towns: Vendors deal with tourists all the time. Most tourists buy souvenirs just before flying home, most tourists try the "walk out" trick as part of their bargaining strategies. It is not unheard of that tourists haggle for a carpet on a Friday, walk out and when they come back the next day, expecting a lower offer, the price actually increases. The vendor knows that you are likely to catch a flight the same day and that your second visit is actually your last chance to buy the carpet. ==Eat== [[File:Casa didier55 009.jpg|thumb|Casablanca's ''souk'']] {{see also|North African cuisine}} Moroccan cuisine is often reputed to be some of the best in the world, with countless dishes and variations proudly bearing the country's colonial and Arabic influences; see [[French cuisine]] and [[Middle Eastern cuisine]]. Unfortunately as a tourist through Morocco, especially if you're on a budget, you'll be limited to the handful of dishes that seem to have a monopoly on cafe and restaurant menus throughout the country. Most restaurants serve dishes foreign to Morocco considering that Moroccans can eat their domestic dishes at home. Apart from major cities, Moroccans do not generally eat out in restaurants so choice is generally limited to international fare such as French, Italian and Chinese cuisine. ===Traditional cuisine=== * '''''Bissara''''', a thick glop made from split peas and a generous wallop of olive oil can be found bubbling away near markets and in medinas in the mornings. Rarely available in touristy places. * '''Couscous''', made from semolina grains and steamed in a colander-like dish known as a ''couscoussière'' is a staple food for most North Africans. It can be served as an accompaniment to a stew or ''tagine'', or mixed with meat and vegetables and presented as a main course. Manual preparation (i.e. not "instant couscous") takes hours. Any restaurant that has couscous on the regular menu should be avoided, it will not be the real thing. But lots of restaurants serve couscous once a week (usually Fridays) for lunch and advertise this widely - they tend to make real couscous and often for much better prices. * '''Fish''' on southern beaches is usually very fresh (caught the same day) and cheap. A mixed fish plate comes for about 25 dirham at stalls in the markets of fishing villages, a huge plate of grilled sardines is 15-20 dirham. If bought fresh at the fish market, a kilogram of fish is 5-20 dirham (the latter for a small kind of tuna). Most restaurants in fishing towns have a BBQ in front and will grill any fish you bring them for 30 dirham (includes fries, a salad and bread). Fish is gutted on demand at the markets, just tell them how you want to prepare it (for a BBQ you get a nice butterfly cut, for tagine it is just gutted). A small tip of 1-2 dirham is appropriate for the gutting. * '''''Ghoulal''''': Land snails in a delicious, rich broth can be found at least as far south as Marrakesh at street food stalls. Servings start as low as 3 dirham, in Marrakesh's main square at 10 for the first serving, 5 for every subsequent serving. * '''''Harira''''' is a simple soup made from lentils, chick peas, lamb stock, tomatoes and vegetables, that is nourishing but light on the stomach and can be eaten as part of any meal. Most Moroccans have it at least once a week, many every day. It is even part of the traditional first meal after sunset during Ramadan in Morocco: dates, followed by harira. A serving starts at 3 dirham; on menus it is often referred to as just ''moroccan soup'' or in French, ''soupe marocaine''. It is probably the most "Moroccan" dish of all and one cannot really claim to have been to Morocco without having tried it at least once. * '''''Khlea''''' (also: '''''kaliya''''') might be more on the adventurous side, taste-wise: meat preserved in fat (mostly lamb, but camel too is produced on industrial scale), usually prepared in a tagine with egg and tomato. The result is very fatty, the meat has a very intense taste and is usually quite chewy. The upside: Starting at 15 dirham, this will get you going for half a day at least. Might be hard to get in touristy restaurants. * '''''Pastilla''''' is a popular delicacy in Morocco: Pulled meat in a flaky dough, topped with sugar and cinnamon. Originally made with pigeon fledglings, nowadays the most common variety is made with chicken, though lamb, beef or fish are sometimes used as well. It is sometimes available as a starter on demand, but the real thing is the size of a proper pie and takes hours to prepare. A proper, pre-ordered pigeon fledgling pastilla is at least 200 dirham, 300 to 400 dirham in most touristy places. A large pastilla serves 2 to 4 people. * '''''Sfenj''''': These deep fried donuts from unsweetened yeast dough, dusted with sugar, are a popular and very filling snack that can be found throughout the country for 1 dirham per piece. They want to be eaten very fresh. Look out for stalls with a huge bowl of hot oil. [[File:Tajine Moroccan.jpg|thumb|Tagine]] *'''Tagine''' (or ''tajine''): One cannot be in the country without seeing a "tagine the dish" on the menu or a "tagine, the cooking ware" in the wild at least once. The very short version is: a "tagine de ..." on a menu is a "steamed ... in a clay pot". Everything can go into a tagine, but restaurants offer only very few dishes using the same spice formulas, which might become boring soon - albeit, with some luck pigeon or khlea can be found: ** tagine de kefta: meatballs, usually with an egg and anything from "a few" to "lots of" vegetables; can be rather spicy ** tagine de légumes: vegetables only (but don't count on vegetarian broth) ** tagine de poulet: chicken, usually with preserved lemons ("en citron") ** tagine aux pruneaux: lamb or, rarely, beef, with prunes and almonds ** tagine de bœuf/agneau/dromadaire/chèvre: beef/lamb/camel/goat with vegetables ** tagine de(s) poisson/crevettes/poulpe: fish/shrimp/octopus (in coastal regions) ** * '''Msemen:''' kind of puff pastry pancakes that you can buy everywhere on the street. They can be sided to savory or sweet dishes. Most likely you will find msemen for breakfast, with boiled or smashed eggs, with spreadable cheese or with honey and jam. Something you can also find the stuffed version, with vegetables like tomato and onions. * Many cafés (see Drink) and restaurants also offer good value '''''petit déjeuner''''' breakfast deals, which basically include a tea or coffee, orange juice (''jus d'orange'') and a croissant or bread with marmalade from 10 dirham. * At many cheap eating places stews like loubia (white beans), adassa (lentils) and ker ain (sheep foot with chickpeas) are on offer. ===Snacks and fast food=== Snackers and budget watchers are well catered for in Morocco. '''Rotisserie chicken''' shops abound, where you can get a quarter chicken served with fries and salad for around 20 dirham. '''Sandwiches''' (from 10 dirham) served from rotisserie chicken shops or hole-in-the-wall establishments are also popular. These fresh crusty baguettes are stuffed with any number of fillings including tuna, chicken, ''brochettes'' and a variety of salads. This is all usually topped off with the obligatory wad of French fries stuffed into the sandwich and lashings of mayonnaise squeezed on top. You may also see hawkers and vendors selling a variety of '''nuts''', steamed '''broad beans''' and barbecued '''corn cobs'''. ==Drink== [[File:The menthe.jpg|thumbnail|A glass of mint tea]] === Water === Bottled water is widely available. Popular brands of water include Oulmes (sparkling) and Sidi Ali, Sidi Harazem and Ain Saiss Danone (still). The latter has a slightly mineral and metallic taste. Nothing with a high mineralization produced. As a rule, do not drink tap water at all in Morocco, even in hotels, unless your stomach is "trained": Overall the quality is excellent until it reaches the house and if there is a problem the government issues warnings in time, but how water is stored in the house and the condition of the plumbing is questionable. Since a 1l bottle of water is only 5 to 7 dirham, most travelers will prefer to stick to it instead of taking the risk of 2 days of diarrhea. === Tea === Any traveller will be offered '''mint tea''' at least once a day. Even the most financially modest Moroccan is equipped with a tea pot and a few glasses. Although sometimes the offer is more of a lure into a shop than a hospitable gesture, it is polite to accept. Before drinking, look the host in the eye and say ''"ba saha ou raha"'' or just '''saha''''. It means enjoy and relax and any local will be impressed with your language skills. Be aware, that this is not pure mint tea: It is green tea (gunpowder) to which mint is added after an initial steeping. As such, it can be pretty strong, especially if one is not used to caffeine. In deserts, it tends to be really strong. Varieties are tea with '''chiba''' (wormwood), available in the winter in the north and with safron, in the region of Ouarzazate. === Juice === Juice stands are everywhere in the towns, especially Marrakech, with a remarkable variety. Orange (''limon'') is most popular, but depending on the season vendors will sell nearly every fruit in existence. Pomegranate (''rumman'') is a winter favorite. In general the equipment and glasses are clean and the juice is safe to drink, but nothing is guaranteed. === Alcohol === Although a predominantly Muslim country, Morocco is '''not dry'''. Alcohol is available in some restaurants, bars, supermarkets (Carrefour and Attacadao), clubs, hotels and discos; some (not strictly legal) liquor stores can be found as well with some research. Lots of Moroccans enjoy a drink although it is disapproved of in public places. The local brew of choice carries the highly original name of Casablanca Beer. It is a full flavored lager and enjoyable with the local cuisine or as a refreshment. The other two major Moroccan beers are Flag Special and Stork. Also you can find local judeo-berber vodka, mild anise flavored and brewed from figs (beware, though, none is produced legally and quality control is non-existent - if the taste reminds you of furniture polish, stay away). Morocco also produces various wines - some of remarkable quality. A bottle in supermarkets start at 35 dirham and go up to 1,000 dirham; a good quality wine can already be had for 50 dirham. In most riads or hotels that serve food but no alcohol, explicitly asking for a bottle of wine will magically make it appear 20 minutes later, though with a markup of at least 100%. '''Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal even if you drank just one beer'''. === Places === Cafes and bars are mostly visited by men only, a solo woman may feel more comfortable having a drink or snack at a pastry shop or restaurant. This doesn't apply to couples though. ==Sleep== [[File:HOTEL CONTINENTAL TANGER MOROCCO APRIL 2013 (8735610038).jpg|thumbnail|Inside Hotel Continental, the grand old hotel of Tangier]] There are the usual more modern '''hotels''' or equivalent found anywhere in the big cities and larger towns around Morocco. On the lower end of the budget scale, HI-affiliated '''[[Hostels|youth hostels]]''' can be found in the major cities (dorm beds from around 50 dirham) while the cheapest '''budget hotels''' (singles from around 65 dirham) are usually located in the ''medina''. Newer, cleaner and slightly more expensive budget (singles from around 75 dirham) and mid-range hotels that are sprinkled throughout the ''ville nouvelles''. Hotels can sometimes be very basic and often lack hot water and showers, while others will charge you 5-10 dirham for a hot water shower. With the exception of large high end hotels, expect the hot water supply in hotels to not be as stable as in more established countries. In Marrakech, MHamid, near Ourzazate and possibly other places, the hot water temperature varies dramatically while you take a shower. Instead, consider public ''hammams'' as there are quite a lot of them in the ''medina'' and in rural areas. Hotels in Morocco are a matter of choice and fit every budget. Classified hotels are 1-star (simple) to 5-star (luxury), and are classified as an ''auberge'', ''riad'', rural ''gîtes d'étape'' or hotel. Stays usually include breakfast, and many include dinner. '''''Auberges''''' are found in the country or in rural small towns, and are built in the traditional mud (''kasbah'') style, many with wood burning fireplaces and salons or roof terraces for taking meals. Auberge are very comfortable, small and usually family run and owned. '''Riads''' are traditional Moroccan-style housing with a rectangular, multi-storey building and an enclosed interior courtyard/garden. They have thick walls which can serve to moderate the outside temperature fluctuations, making them cooler during the day. Riads are popular in [[Marrakech]], [[Essaouira]] and [[Fes]], or anywhere there is a medina (old city). They are usually small (about 6 rooms or less), clean and charming, often with to a lovely walled garden where breakfast is served on an inner patio or up on a roof terrace. Riads are usually too small to have a swimming pool, but may have what is called a tiny plunge pool to cool off in during summer months. Some riads are in former merchant houses or palaces and may have large opulent rooms and gardens. (Note, riads are constructed adjacent to one another, and often have smaller windows, letting in less sunshine, both of which can exacerbate '''bed bug''' infestations and make extermination difficult. Best to check mattress crevices/seams for bugs/carcasses or feces (which present as black dots). Mosquito repellents such as DEET can repel bed bugs to an extent, but do not kill them upon contact, like [[Permethrin]].) By the way, a '''dar''' is similar, but often has a closed roof. '''''Gîtes d'étape''''' are simple country inns and hostel style places, where mountain trekkers can grab a hot shower, a good meal, and have a roof over their head for one night. Because coastal towns and villages are the destinations of choice for Moroccans to escape the heat from July to early September and because most Moroccans prefer '''furnished apartments''' over hotels, those towns are swamped with apartments. In the summer months and at peak season for Europeans (Easter, Autumn Holidays and from Christmas until mid-February) people will wait at the roadside at the village entrance, waving with keys. In low season you'll have to ask around (any random person on the street will do). Prices range from 75-200 dirham in low season but can be a multiple in high season. If you want to spend more than just a few days, shop around: Within villages the prices don't vary much for comparable places, but quality of furniture, kitchen equipment, internet connection and TV do a lot. Desert '''bivouacs''' are traditional nomad carpeted wool tents with a mattress, sheets and blankets. You can shower at the auberge where you will also have breakfast. Many hotels, especially those in the ''medina'' have delightful roof terraces, both in cities and the countryside, where you can sleep if the weather's too hot. This will normally cost you 20-25 dirham and you're provided with mattresses and a warm blanket. Just ask the receptionist in the hotel/auberge/gite. If you want to ask in French, which works fairly well, you can say ''ca sera possible de dormir sur la terrace, s'il vous plait?'' Often you can bargain on the price and if it's more than 30 dirham you should bargain. For those looking to '''camp''', almost every town and city has a campground, although these can often be some way out of the centre. Many of these grounds have water, electricity and cafes. In rural areas and villages, locals are usually more than happy to let you camp on their property; just make sure you ask first. Wild camping is illegal and the fines are steep; though a friendly request to the local police chief will usually get you the permission. ==Learn== Most foreigners looking to study in Morocco are seeking either Arabic or French '''language courses'''. All major cities have language centres, and some will even arrange homestays with an Arabic-speaking family during your course. ==Work== Although Morocco has a highly diversified economy and encourages foreign participation in its economy, finding a job in Morocco can be difficult. With a very high rate of unemployment (12.9% as of May 2023), there is not enough work for people. Still, having a background an education different from that of most of the local workforce may give you an advantage. Much work is informal or seasonal, which is a problem for locals, but not necessarily for you. It will be very difficult to manage life in the country without knowing [[Arabic]], [[French]], or both, so try to acquire the necessary language skills if you wish to give working in Morocco a try. Further, networking matters greatly in Morocco and the importance of having connections in the country cannot be overstated. Try to find people who can help you out. As is the case throughout North Africa, the Middle East, and the Arab world, Moroccans take business relationships seriously and expect you to demonstrate sincere and genuine interest. ==Cope== [[File:Souk, Marrakech (2242326899).jpg|thumbnail|In medinas and souqs you may meet persistent touts and shopkeepers]] Some Moroccans that you meet on the streets have come up with dozens of ways to part you from your money. Keep your wits about you, but don't let your wariness stop you from accepting any offers of generous Moroccan hospitality. Put on a smile and greet everybody that greets you, but still be firm if you are not interested. This will leave you significantly better off than just ignoring them. ===Touts=== ''Faux guides'' and touts congregate around tourist areas and will offer to show you around the ''medinas'', help you find accommodation, take you to a handicraft warehouse, or even score some drugs. While these men can often be harmless, never accept drugs or other products from them. Be polite, but make it clear if you're not interested in their services, and if they get too persistent, head for a taxi, ''salon de thé'', or into the nearest shop - the shopkeeper will show the faux guide away. Though, if it's a shop frequented by tourists, the shopkeeper may be equally eager to get you to buy something. The best way to avoid Faux guides and touts is to avoid eye contact and ignore them, this will generally discourage them as they will try ''to invest'' their time in bothering another more willing tourist. Another way is to walk quickly; if eye contact happens just give them a smile, preferably a ''strong'' and ''beaming'' one rather than a ''shy'' one meaning ''no! thanks''. Responding to everything with a polite but firm ''la shokran'' (Arabic for "no, thank you") can be particularly effective, since it doesn't reveal your native language and is understood by bystanders whose attention the tout usually does not want; they might even tell him to leave you alone. Simply ''la'' would be considered rude in this context, but can be warranted as well. Pretending you only speak some exotic language and don't understand whatever they say can be an option, too. If you engage in arguing or a conversation with them, you will have a hell of time getting rid of them, as they are incredibly persistent and are masters in harassment, nothing really embarrasses them as they consider this being their way of earning their living. Some of the more common tactics to be aware of are as follows. *Many ''Faux guides'' will pretend they are students when they approach you and that they just want to practice their English and learn about your culture, invariably if you follow them, there is a big chance you will end up in a carpet or souvenirs shop. A variant is they will show you an English letter and will ask you to translate it for them, or will ask for your help to their English-speaking friend/cousin/relative etc. abroad. *In areas of the medina with much accommodation, many young touts will wait for tourists to show them to you their hotel, just to get some dirham. They will claim GPS is not working in the medina and routes are closed. Do not believe them, never tell them the name of your place, ignore them or try to walk them out. Often your accommodation is right where you expect it just a few meters apart from where you are intercepted by the touts. *Expect to be told that anywhere and everywhere is 'close' or they shout "medina there" (even though you are right in the middle of it). Invariably, this is just a way to lull you into trusting them and a con to get you to follow them instead. Do not do this! *Do not accept 'free gifts' from vendors. You will find that a group of people will approach you accusing you of stealing it, and will extort the price from you. *Always insist that prices are fixed beforehand. This is especially true for taxi fares, where trips around a city should cost no more than 20 dirham, in general, or be done on the meter. This cannot be stressed enough. In ''all'' situations (including Henna tattoos) always agree on a price before! ===Bargaining and getting fooled=== * When [[bargaining]], never name a price that you are not willing to pay. * At bus/train stations, people will tell you that there have been cancellations, and that you won't be able to get a bus/train. Again, this is almost always a con to get you to accept a hyped-up taxi fare. * In general, do not accept the services of people who approach you. * Never be afraid to say no. Do just not fall or give in to any tout behaviour, even if it is just a few euros. This makes it harder for future tourists, and it basically identifies you as being stupid, not knowing local customs and behaviour. ===Drugs=== Another favourite of scam artists. In cities around the Rif Mountains, especially [[Tetouan]] and [[Chefchaouen]], you will almost certainly be offered ''kif'' (dope). Some dealers will sell you the dope, then turn you in to the police for a cut of the ''baksheesh'' you pay to bribe your way out, while others will get you stoned before selling you lawn clippings in plasticine. ===Ticket inspectors=== On trains inspectors have reportedly attempted to extricate a few extra dirham from unsuspecting tourists by finding something 'wrong' with their tickets. Make sure your tickets are in order before you board, and if you find yourself being hassled, insist on taking the matter up with the station manager at your destination. ===Toilets=== Moroccan toilets, even those in hotels or restaurants, might lack '''toilet paper'''. It is worth buying a roll (French: "'''papier hygienique'''"). ===Talk=== Try to learn at least a phrasebook level of competency in French or Arabic (Spanish may help you in the North - but not largely). Just being able to say ''"Ith'hab!" or "Seer f'halek"'' ("Go Away!") may be useful to you... Many locals (especially the nice ones who are not trying to take advantage of you) will speak limited English. Making a real effort to speak Arabic or Moroccan Arabic means a great deal to many Moroccans, including the majority who are multilingual, and puts you at an advantage as regards scams and bargaining. If you can at least verify prices in French with locals, you could end up saving a lot of money. ===What to wear=== You won't need high and heavy mountain boots unless you go in the coldest time of the year like February: it's quite warm in the country even when it's heavily raining in November. For trekking in valleys, low trekking shoes will likely be enough. Even in medinas, streets are paved if not asphalted—just be sure your footwear is not toeless in the medina, as garbage services are limited and fish scraps from the markets and the like tend to end up on the street. However, many Moroccan homes, most cheaper hotels, and nearly all buses have no heating, and winter nights drop to zero; you may need more layers than you will expect. For a desert trip to dunes, ensure your pockets can be easily shaken out as sand gets in there very quickly. Laundry services are exceptionally few and far between, although some hotels will provide them for a price and dry cleaners are plentiful. A few laundromats or similar do exist in newer sections of some cities, but are hard to find. It won't save you money to buy new clothes instead of washing your old ones, but it's a close thing. ===Time=== Morocco operates Daylight Saving Time except for during Ramadan. The further south you go, the more people refuse to use daylight saving time (also called "political time" in contrast to "wild time"); state-run places there will always obey DST, merchants not necessarily. ==Stay safe== [[File:Camel guard at Mausoleum Mohammad V.JPG|thumbnail|upright|"Camel guard" on horse at Mausoleum Mohammad V, Rabat]] Overall, Morocco remains a relatively safe place. Like any country, Morocco has its share of problems. Many can be easily avoided by following common sense. Avoid dark alleys. Travel in a group whenever possible. Keep money and passports in a safety wallet or in a hotel safety deposit box. Keep backpacks and purses with you at all times. Make sure there is nothing important in outside or back pockets. Drug laws are incredibly harsh in Morocco, as are the laws against prostitution and the importation, distribution and production of pornography. === Religious matters === Although the Moroccan constitution allows for freedom of religion, the clause on religious freedom is loosely defined and widely open to interpretation. It is unwise to speak badly of [[Islam]], hand out non-Islamic religious literature, or encourage Moroccans to participate in religious debates. Such actions will attract unwanted attention from the authorities and people, including expatriates, have been arrested for engaging in such activities. Attempting to preach or proselytise is also unwise, and you can expect to be heavily punished by the Moroccan authorities for doing so. There's nothing wrong with bringing bibles and other religious texts into the country so long as you use them for personal use. === Women travellers === Women especially will experience constant harassment if alone, but this is usually just cat-calls and (disturbingly) hisses. Dark sunglasses make it easier to avoid eye contact. If someone won't leave you alone, don't feel the need to be polite, look for families, a busy shop, or a local woman and don't be afraid to ask for help. If you are so inclined, you could wear a ''hijab'' (headscarf), but this is not necessary. Morocco can be a liberal country and many Moroccan women do not wear headscarves. However, women should ''always'' dress conservatively (no low-cut tops, midriffs, or shorts), out of respect for the local culture. In cities, women can wear more revealing clothing, but as a general rule they should follow the lead from local women. Locals will also assume that Moroccan women venturing into ''ville nouvelle'' nightclubs or bars alone are prostitutes in search of clientèle. Foreign women entering such places will not be so considered but will be thought of as approachable. === Major annoyances === Be careful about being drugged, especially as a solo traveller. The common and easy-to-make drug GHB only lasts 3 hours and is undetectable in the body after 7 hours, so take action immediately if you are attacked. Hustlers can be a big problem for people travelling to Morocco, and Tangier in particular. It's often difficult to walk down the street without being accosted by somebody offering to give you directions or sell you something. Your best bet is to politely refuse their services and keep walking, as all they are after is money. There are some legitimate tour guides, but your guide will receive a commission on anything you buy while you're with them, so don't let yourself be pressured into purchasing anything you don't want. In certain places, hustlers will do their best to intimidate you, and they can be very clingy, insisting that you give them money or offering their 'services'. Don't be intimidated by this; usually a firm "No" does the trick. Some of them can get nasty and abusive but before it gets to that stage walk towards a shop or crowd. Most Moroccans would immediately tell the person off if they see that you are being harassed. === Dangerous areas === Armed fighting in the disputed areas of the Western Sahara is less frequent now, but clashes between government forces and the Polisario Front still occur. Don't wander too far off the beaten path either, as this region is also '''heavily-mined'''. Don't get too close to the Mauritanian border due to terrorism, kidnapping, and murder. === Dual nationals === Dual citizenship is recognised by Morocco. If you are regarded as Moroccan by the authorities, such as by being a dual citizen or having a Moroccan father, you will be treated as a Moroccan citizen. In the unlikely event you get arrested, run into any kind of legal trouble, or get detained, your embassy will have little influence in assisting you. === Natural disasters === {{see also|Earthquakes}} The country is located near the boundary between the African Plate and the Eurasian Plate, which is a seismically active zone. However, most earthquakes in Morocco are small and cause little damage. The last major earthquake – thought to be the deadliest since the 1960 Agadir earthquake – occurred in September 2023, culminating in thousands of deaths and injuries. Morocco's building standards are poor; many buildings are poorly constructed and are not able to withstand the full force of a major earthquake. === LGBT travellers === Morocco is ''not a safe'' destination for [[LGBT travel|gay and lesbian travellers]]; Morocco's cultural and legal systems view homosexuality as immoral and anti-LGBT sentiments are common among the population. Same-sex sexual activity is punishable by 6 months to 3 years imprisonment and a fine of up to 1000 dirhams. In 2014, a gay British traveller was prosecuted and imprisoned for four months after police found incriminating photographs on his phone. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Spice Market, Marakech (2242330035).jpg|thumbnail|Spices for sale]] ===General concerns=== *'''Inoculations''': No particular inoculations are needed for Morocco under normal circumstances, but check with the [http://www.cdc.gov/travel/ US's Centre for Disease Control (CDC) travel web pages] for any recent disease outbreaks. As with most travel, it makes good sense to have a recent tetanus immunization. Consider Hepatitis A and B inoculations. *'''Food and drink''': Avoid uncooked fruits and vegetables that you can not peel. Avoid any food that is not prepared when you order it (e.g. buffets). Usually fried and boiled foods are safe. Some travellers have also had problems with unrefrigerated condiments (such as mayonnaise) used in fast food outlets. *'''Water''': It is advisable to drink bottled water (check that the cap is sealed - some people might try to sell you tap water in recycled bottles). Be wary of ice or cordials that may be made with tap water. Some hotels provide free bottled water to guests and its wise to keep a supply in your room so as not to be tempted with tap water. *'''Shoes''': Keep your sandals for the beach. Moroccan streets double as garbage disposal areas and you may not want to wade through fish heads and chicken parts with open-toe shoes. *'''[[Malaria]]''': Present in the northern, coastal areas of the country but not a major problem. Take the usual precautions against being bitten (light coloured clothing, insect repellent, etc.) and if you are really worried see your doctor about anti-malarial medication before your departure. ===Medical help=== Morocco has a public and private health care system. Most of the private sector health services are located in Casablanca, Rabat and other larger cities. Outside the major cities, health services are limited. The level of healthcare is not at the same level as in Europe. There can be large differences between private and public hospitals. Medical treatment can be obtained from self-employed doctors, clinics and hospitals. Most general practitioners, specialists, and dentists are self-employed; look for signs saying "Docteur". An average doctor's check-up in a city costs 150-300 dirham. In general, the quality of their work is decent, but you can try to ask some locals for advice and recommendations. Specialist health care services are not always available. Dental care is of a reasonable standard and prices are in line with those in western countries. Staff in private and public hospitals are highly educated, but English is poorly spoken or not spoken at all. Doctors and nursing staff often speak French. In private clinics, language skills are more common. In public hospitals, emergency care is free of charge, but in practice foreigners are always required to pay for treatment, for example for overnight stays. Moroccan private hospitals offer a higher standard of care than the public sector and, if possible, it is advisable to go directly to a private clinic. If your condition in Morocco requires more complex treatment, it is advisable to seek the opinion of two different doctors. Payments for medical and hospital services are required from foreigners in cash. The possibility of payment by credit card is rare. Ambulance services may have to be paid in advance. Travellers to Morocco are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance. Hotels in major tourist areas may have their own clinic or doctor. They also provide treatment outside office hours. There are also doctors in Morocco who make home visits. If you are in northern Morocco near the Spanish regions of Ceuta or Melilla on the African continent, you can move to the Spanish side, where you can get treatment with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Morocco has a very large number of pharmacies in both urban and rural areas. You can usually find the contact details of the pharmacy on duty on the doors of pharmacies or by using internet search services. Pharmacies are denoted by a green cross, usually in neon. They sell medicines, contraceptives, and often beauty and related products. For minor problems, they double as a medical advisor. Be prepared to describe your problem even when you know exactly what you need. Most common prescription and over-the-counter medicines are readily available, but specialised medicines can be difficult to obtain. Sometimes pharmacies can order the medicine you need with short delivery times. Pharmacies can also provide information about medical services in your area. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} As in all of North Africa, the dominant religion is Islam, therefore, appropriate religious prohibitions and attitudes should be in order. If visiting a mosque, for example, be sure to be dressed conservatively and remove your shoes before entering it. === Social etiquette === * '''Moroccans are indirect communicators'''. They are tempered by the need to save face and protect and honour and they will avoid saying anything that could be construed as judgemental or negative. One's point is expressed in a roundabout way. * '''Do not beckon a Moroccan person directly''', even if they've done something wrong in your opinion. It is considered impolite. Under Moroccan law, you can be taken to court for this. * '''Kissing cheeks''' is practiced between members of the same gender, close friends, and family. You should not do this to someone of the opposite gender unless you're close to them. If in doubt, a '''handshake''' is the way to go. One way to demonstrate respect and sincerity: Touch your heart with your right hand after shaking someone's hand. * When greeting someone you don't know, '''always say "Salaam Alaykum"''' ("peace upon you"), which is the standard, formal greeting. In informal settings, people often greet each other with "Salaam". * '''The left hand is considered unhygienic'''. Try not to shake hands or accept something from someone with your left hand as it is considered impolite. * '''Moroccans respect their elders'''. If you come across someone who is older than you, give up your seat on public transportation for them. If you're waiting for a taxi, allow someone older to take your spot. You are expected to act politely around someone older than you, and it would be seen as rude manners if you attempt to challenge someone older than you. * Smoking kif or [[hashish]] is part of Moroccan culture and widely tolerated (though officially illegal). This said, it's frowned upon to smoke on crowded beaches or in cafes or restaurants without the owner's consent - it is OK, even expected, to ask for permission. * '''Dress smartly and conservatively in public'''. For men, it's advisable to wear long trousers and sleeved shirts, and women shouldn't wear see-through dresses. In hotels and beach clubs, there's no issue with donning swimsuits, bikinis, and shorts. * '''Public displays of affection aren't socially accepted'''. People can get arrested for doing this. === Things to avoid === Moroccans will understand that you are not fully aware of what's considered appropriate/inappropriate in their country, and they will usually be tolerant of your blunders. This said, there are some things which will be met with disapproval and you should avoid doing the following during your stay in the country. ====Politics==== * Political discourse tends to be highly sensitive in Morocco and some have been arrested for speaking out against the government and state institutions. Keep your political views to yourself. * The Moroccan royal family is protected by strict lèse–majesté laws and the constitution states that the reigning monarch is "inviolable". In other words, insulting, making fun of them, questioning their rule (this also includes advocating for republicanism), or speaking out against them is punishable by up to '''five years of imprisonment'''. * It is a social faux pas to discuss the royal family's economic power and involvement in the business world. * Avoid talking about [[Western Sahara]] and Sahrawi nationalism. Doing so could get you into trouble with the authorities. * Avoid talking about [[Algeria]]. Since the 1960s, the two countries have had strained relations and some Moroccans, particularly the older generations, harbor strong feelings towards Algeria and Algerian people. In 1975, Algeria expelled thousands of Moroccans from Algeria, separating many Moroccans from their family members. ====Symbols==== * According to the Moroccan penal code, it is '''illegal''' to show contempt – satirising, desecrating, and so on – for the symbols (the flag, the coat of arms, the national motto) of Morocco. ====Religion==== * [[Islam]] is the dominant religion in Morocco, and Islam plays an essential role in the lives of every Moroccan. During [[Ramadan]], you should refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing in public. Not doing so would be seen as highly disrespectful. The Jewish and Christian minorities are generally free to practise their religions. It is illegal to attempt to convert someone to any religion other than Islam. * Refrain from criticising or speaking badly about religion, and refrain from talking about religion from an agnostic point of view. Even highly educated Moroccans won't appreciate it. ==Connect== ===Telephone=== '''Public telephones''' can be found in city centres, but private '''telephone offices''' (also known as ''teleboutiques'' or ''telekiosques'') are also commonly used. The international dialling prefix (to dial ''out'' of the country) is 00. All normal numbers are ten digits long, counting the initial ''0'' (area code prefix) and the whole number must be dialled even for local calls within the same area code. ====Useful numbers==== :Police: '''19'''. Moroccan Royal Gendarmerie: '''17''' :Fire Service: '''15''' :Highway Emergency Service: '''177''' :Domestic directory: 160 :International directory: 120 :Telegrams and telephone: 140 :Intercity operator: 100 ====Mobile==== The mobile telephone network in Morocco can be accessed via one of the major operators: [http://www.orange.ma Orange], [http://www.inwi.ma Inwi] or [https://www.iam.ma/ Maroc Telecom] (IAM - ''Ittisalat Al Maghrib'', owned by Etisalat). Network coverage is generally good in populated areas and mostly also in the countryside. According to OpenSignal, all three providers are similarly good. Maroc Telecom has the best coverage in rural areas (including most parts of [[Western Sahara]]). The network of Maroc Telecom has also the best consistent quality. (updated September 2022) The three operators also each operate lower-budget virtual carriers: [https://win.ma/en win] (using Inwi's network), [https://www.yoxo.ma/ Yoxo] (using Orange's network), and [https://www.injoy.ma inJoy] (using IAM's network) (updated June 2025) More information on available services, coverage and roaming partners are available at: [http://www.gsmworld.com/roaming/gsminfo/cou_ma.shtml GSMWorld]. Beware that roaming with international cards from most countries is very expensive, so think about buying a local card. ====SIM cards==== SIM cards can be purchased, though some vendors require an ID; the card itself is free, the fee paid is credited to the account. The fee credited to the account is sufficient to make a few brief phone calls. They can be purchased in various shops that sport the official logo but not in all (rule of thumb: not in a kiosk, but any electronics shop works and of course the official stores of the companies). Some places that sell houseware goods may sell SIM, just ask the cashier. Arabic and French both use "SIM", repeating the word will either get you the SIM or directions to the next shop where you can get one. eSIM cards are available to purchase and activate entirely online for those phones which are compatible. As of May 2025, Maroc Telecom are offering an eSIM with unlimited 4G data over 14 days for 320.00 MAD. To activate the eSIM you need to complete set-up and then call '555'. Once activated, to finally get online, you need to text 'Internet' to 505, and your data will be connected within moments. The three virtual networks all also offer eSIMs: win by inwi in particular offers very good-value customisable plans and has a website fully available in English. (Yoko also has some competitive plans, but be warned of its more arduous cancellation policies than win.) '''Top-ups''' come in the form of scratch cards for 5 to 100 dirham which can be purchased anywhere, just look for the logo of the phone company. Many convenience stores that sell bottled water will also sell top-ups. The cards are used by sending the scratch code to some number which is explained on the scratch card itself: 555 for Maroc Telecom and Orange, 120 for INWI. When calling in to apply the top up to your account, keep in mind that the prompts will be in French or Arabic, so if you do not understand either, make arrangements for someone to assist you. Also keep in mind that when topping up, you will be given the option of applying the top up to data or to call time. '''Data plans''' are available for as little as 5 dirham per 500 MB. But 17 GB and 2 hr call, or 15 GB and 5 hr call can be had for as little as 100 dirham. While you can buy SIM cards at some Moroccan international airports from stalls operated by the major operators, the price is considerably higher than elsewhere, for instance in December 2024, the lowest price plan at Marrakech airport was 20 Euros (about 200 dirhams) for 20 GB and 5 hours talk talk. In contrast, a 30 dirham SIM card and a 50 dirham top up card, were sufficient in December 2024 to provide 7.5 GB of data and a brief amount of call time. ===Post=== [[File:L169 - Boîte aux lettres - Maroc.JPG|thumb|Moroccan letterbox]] The Moroccan postal service is generally reliable and offers a ''post restante'' service in major cities for a small fee. You will need some identification (preferably your passport) to collect your mail. Items shipped as '''freight''' are inspected at the post office before they are sent, so wait until this has been done before you seal the box. ===Email and internet=== Moroccans have really taken to the internet. '''Internet cafes''' are open late and are numerous in cities and smaller towns that see significant tourist traffic. Rates are 3-4 dirham per hour and they are often located next to, above, or below the ''telekiosque'' offices. Speeds are acceptable to excellent in the north, but can be a little on the slow side in rural areas. Most internet cafes will allow you to print and burn CDs for a small charge. Almost every restaurant and cafe offers wifi for free with usually acceptable speed. Moroccans have also really taken to 3G and 4G/LTE coverage. There is a good access to email and the internet via Mobile Phones and it is relatively inexpensive. There is 3G access even in the desert, as well as in all cities. You can easily use the mobile internet network by buying a prepaid card (see mobile section). For Maroc Telecom, data-only packages can be purchased by appending "*3" to the top-up code. As of 2017, fiber connections are rolled out throughout the country, with newly installed 4G-towers as backup. ==Go next== The land border can be crossed to Spain ([[Ceuta]] and [[Melilla]]) and to [[Mauretania]]. The border crossings to Algeria are generally closed. There are ferries to the [[Spain|Spanish mainland]]. {{isPartOf|North Africa}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|32|-6|zoom=6}} t4my2zz0zc1c9h3xaup6nr5zruq4qfx 5091329 5091328 2025-07-11T10:36:02Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091329 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Aït Arbi (Maroc) banner Vallée des Gorges du Dadès.jpg|caption=The village of Aït Arbi in Saharan Morocco}} '''Morocco''' ([[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]: المغرب, ''Al-Maghrib''; [[Berber phrasebook|Berber]]: ⵍⵎⴰⵖⵔⵉⴱ, ''Elmaɣrib''; [[French phrasebook|French]]: ''Maroc'') is the northwesternmost country in [[Africa]]. Morocco has, for most people, been the gateway to [[Africa]]. With plenty of attractive locations, historical sights, and unique cultural traditions, there's lots to see and do in this beautiful, mesmerising country. At just a few hours from the main European cities, Morocco has everything to overwhelm you with the amazing colours, smells and sounds of Islamic Africa. Imagine bustling souqs and spice markets, stunning mosques, white-washed sea side towns and medieval city centres. With panoramic views varying from snow-covered peaks in the High Atlas to the endless sand dunes of the Sahara, no-one ever has to be bored in this beautiful country. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Map of Morocco.png | regionmaptext=Map of Morocco | regionmapsize=350px | region1name=[[Mediterranean Morocco]] | region1color=#d5b66b | region1items= | region1description= Home to several [[Spain|Spanish]] enclaves and serves as the country's main access point to the sea. | region2name=[[North Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|North Atlantic Coast]] | region2color=#d5dc76 | region2items= | region2description= Home of the [[Rabat|capital]] and [[Casablanca]]. The first entry point for the traveller. | region3name=[[South Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|South Atlantic Coast]] | region3color=#4da9c4 | region3items= | region3description=Home to gorgeous beach towns like [[Essaouira]] and [[Agadir]]. | region4name=[[High Atlas]] | region4color=#b383b3 | region4items= | region4description= Home to major cities like [[Marrakech]] and much of the ethnic Berber population. | region5name=[[Middle Atlas]] | region5color=#71b37b | region5items= | region5description=covering the Middle Atlas mountains and the surrounding areas including Fez and Meknes | region6name=[[Saharan Morocco]] | region6color=#d56d76 | region6items= | region6description= The vast desert region of Morocco and the country's least populated region. Offers the traveller a chance to explore a slice of the vast Saharan desert. | region7name=[[Anti Atlas]] | region7color=#a78379 | region7items= | region7description= Home of [[Taroudant]] and offers the traveller another chance to explore another slice of the vast Saharan desert. }} * '''[[Spanish North Africa]]''' includes [[Ceuta]], [[Melilla]] and a few other small territories at the Mediterranean sea, which are part of [[Spain]]. {{disclaimerbox|As travel conditions in the '''[[Western Sahara]]''' are remarkably different from a traveller's point of view, it is treated as its own entity. This '''should not''' be interpreted as a political endorsement of claims by any side in the sovereignty dispute.}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5b66b|title=[[Mediterranean Morocco]]|wikidata=Q14207241}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5dc76|title=[[North Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|North Atlantic Coast]]|wikidata=Q14204012}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#4da9c4|title=[[South Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|South Atlantic Coast]]|wikidata=Q14204036}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b383b3|title=[[High Atlas]]|wikidata=Q584279}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Middle Atlas]]|wikidata=Q1433137}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d56d76|title=[[Saharan Morocco]]|wikidata=Q14207244}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a78379|title=[[Anti Atlas]]|wikidata=Q574853}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|31.368|-5.587|zoom=6|height=600|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rabat]]|url=|lat=34.020882|long=-6.84165|wikidata=Q3551}} (Arabic: '''الرِّبَاط''', Berber: ⵕⵕⴱⴰⵟ) – the capital of Morocco; very relaxed and hassle-free, highlights include a 12th-century tower and minaret. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Agadir]]|url=|lat=30.433333|long=-9.6|wikidata=Q170525}} (Arabic: '''اكادير''', Berber: ⴰⴳⴰⴷⵉⵔ) – the town is a nice example of modern Morocco, best known for its beaches, with less emphasis on history and culture. Take the local bus for a few cents and go 2 or 3 villages north, where there are additional beaches. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Casablanca]]|url=|lat=33.533333|long=-7.583333|wikidata=Q7903}} (Arabic: '''الدار البيضاء''', Berber: ⴰⵏⴼⴰ) – this modern city by the sea is a starting point for visitors flying into the country. If you have the time, both the historical medina and the contemporary mosque (the third largest in the world) are well worth an afternoon. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fez]]|url=|lat=34.033333|long=-5|wikidata=Q80985}} (Arabic: '''فاس‎‎''', Berber: ⴼⴰⵙ) – the former capital of Morocco and home to the oldest university in the world, the Qarawiyyin University, in its well preserved old city. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Marrakech]]|url=|lat=31.63|long=-8.008889|wikidata=Q101625}} (Arabic: '''مراكش'''‎‎, Berber: ⴰⵎⵓⵔⴰⴽⵓⵛ) – a perfect combination of old and new Morocco. Plan to spend at least a few days wandering the huge maze of souks and ruins in the medina. The great plaza of Djeema El Fna at dusk is not to be missed. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Meknes]]|url=|lat=33.895|long=-5.554722|wikidata=Q178663}} (Arabic: '''مكناس''', Berber: ⴰⵎⴽⵏⴰⵙ) – a modern, laid-back city that offers a welcome break from the tourist crush of neighbouring [[Fez]]. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ouarzazate]]|url=|lat=30.916667|long=-6.916667|wikidata=Q505208}} (Arabic: '''ورزازات'''‎‎, Berber: ⵡⴰⵔⵣⴰⵣⴰⵜ) – considered the capital of the South, Ouarzazate is a great example of preservation and tourism that hasn't destroyed the feel of a fantastic and ancient city. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tangier]]|url=|lat=35.766667|long=-5.8|wikidata=Q126148}} (Arabic: '''طنجة'''‎‎, Berber: ⵜⵉⵏⴳⵉ) – the starting point for most visitors arriving by ferry from Spain. An enigmatic charm which has attracted numerous artists (Henri Matisse), musicians (Jimi Hendrix), politicians (Winston Churchill), writers (William S. Burroughs, Mark Twain) and others (Malcolm Forbes). *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tetouan]]|url=|lat=35.566667|long=-5.366667|wikidata=Q185157}} (Arabic: '''تطوان''', Berber: ⵜⵉⵟⵟⴰⵡⵉⵏ) – nice beaches and is the gateway to the Rif Mountains. ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[High Atlas]]|url=|lat=31.433333|long=-6.933333|wikidata=Q584279}} (Arabic: '''الاطلس الكبير''', Berber: ⴰⴷⵔⴰⵔ ⵏ ⴷⵔⵏ) – regular destination for mountain hikers, ski enthusiasts, or travellers interested in the indigenous Berber culture *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Merzouga]]|url=|lat=31.099167|long=-4.011667|wikidata=Q1922278}} (Arabic: '''مرزوقة''', Berber: ⵎⴰⵔⵣⵓⴳⴰ) and {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[M'Hamid]]|url=|lat=29.822222|long=-5.720833|wikidata=Q1014625}} (Arabic: '''محاميد الغزلان''', Berber: ⵜⴰⵔⴰⴳⴰⵍⵜ) – from either of these two settlements at the edge of the Sahara, ride a camel or 4x4 into the desert for a night (or a week) among the dunes and under the stars *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Tinerhir]]|url=|lat=31.514722|long=-5.532778|wikidata=Q335141}} (Arabic: '''تنغير''', Berber: ⵜⵉⵏⵖⵉⵔ) – desert oasis and access point to the stunning High Atlas *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Volubilis]]|url=|lat=34.071111|long=-5.553611|wikidata=Q391215}} (Arabic: '''وليلي''', Berber: ⵡⴰⵍⵉⵍⵉ) – the biggest Roman ruins in Morocco, 30 km north of [[Meknes]], next to the holy town of [[Moulay Idriss]] ==Understand== [[File:Morocco close location (orthographic).svg|thumb]] === Politics and government === The only constitutional monarchy in [[North Africa]], the '''Kingdom of Morocco''' is made up of 12 regions. It has one of the largest economies in Africa, and is an important player in Arab affairs, . ==== Name transcriptions ==== * [[Arabic]]: '''المملكة المغربية''', ''al-mamlaka al-maḡribiyya'' * [[Berber phrasebook|Berber]]: '''ⵜⴰⴳⵍⴷⵉⵜ ⵏ ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ''', ''Tageldit n lmeɣrib'' * [[French]]: '''Royaume du Maroc''' ===History=== {{see also|Islamic Golden Age}} The earliest known independent state of Morocco was the '''Berber Kingdom of Mauretania''' under King Baga. This kingdom dates back at least to 300 BCE. From the 1st century BCE, Morocco was part of the [[Roman Empire]] as '''Mauretania Tingitana'''. Christianity was introduced in the 2nd century CE and gained converts in the Roman towns, among slaves and Berber farmers. In the 5th century CE, as the Roman Empire declined, the region was invaded from the north by the Vandals and later the Visigoths. In the 6th century, northern Morocco became part of the Byzantine Empire. Throughout this time, however, the Berber inhabitants in the high mountains of the interior remained independent. In 670 CE, the first Islamic conquest of the North African coastal plain took place under Uqba ibn Nafi, a general serving under the Umayyads. The indigenous Berber tribes adopted [[Islam]], but retained their customary laws. They also paid taxes and tribute to the new Muslim administration. The first independent Muslim state in the area of modern Morocco was the Kingdom of Nekor, an emirate in the Rif Mountains. It was founded by Salih I ibn Mansur in 710, as a client state. After the outbreak of the Berber Revolt in 739, the Berbers formed other independent states such as the '''Miknasa''' of Sijilmasa and the '''Barghawata'''. According to medieval legend, Idris Ibn Abdallah fled to Morocco after the Abbasids' massacre of the tribes in Iraq. He convinced the Awraba tribes to break the allegiance to distant Abbasid caliphs in Baghdad and he founded the '''Idrisid Dynasty''' in 788. The Idrisids established Fez as their capital and Morocco became a centre of Muslim learning and major regional power. The Idrisids were ousted in 927 by the Fatimid Caliphate and their Miknasa allies. After Miknasa broke off relations with the Fatimids in 932, they were removed from power by the Maghrawa of Sijilmasa in 980. From the 11th century to the early 20th century onwards, a series of dynasties including the '''Almoravids''', '''Almohads''', '''Marinids''', '''Wattasids''', '''Saadis''' and '''Alaouites''' ruled Morocco until it was controlled by the Spanish and French. During World War II, Morocco became an Axis puppet under Vichy France in 1940, and became a refuge for affluent Europeans, famous through the film ''Casablanca''. Morocco was liberated in 1942 by American troops in Operation Torch (see [[World War II in Africa]]) and hosted the 1943 Casablanca conference. Morocco's long struggle for independence from France ended in 1956. The internationalized city of Tangier was turned over to the new country that same year. Morocco annexed [[Western Sahara]] during the late 1970s, and even though the status of the territory remains unresolved, all maps in Morocco show Western Sahara as an integrated part of Morocco. Gradual political reforms in the 1990s resulted in the establishment of a bicameral legislature in 1997, although the king still possesses the actual political power. The press is mostly state controlled even though there are free newspapers, and clampdowns have occurred following criticism of the authorities or articles concerning the Western Sahara situation. ===Culture=== Morocco has 34 million inhabitants. It's a good place to see varied cultural heritages including those with African, Arabic, Berber, Moorish and Western influences. Islam is by far the dominant religion, with 99% of the population being at least nominally Muslim. Christianity is the second largest religion, but most Christians in Morocco are expatriates from Western countries. Morocco used to have a large Jewish community, most of whom were Sephardic Jews whose ancestors fled the Spanish and Portuguese inquisitions, though the vast majority of them fled to Israel in the second half of the 20th century, and only a small community remains in Morocco today. Nevertheless, Morocco's Jewish community is the largest remaining one in an Arab country. ===Electricity and voltage=== {{see also|Electrical systems}} The voltage in Morocco is generally '''220 V''' (partly 127 V) 50 Hz, and outlets will fit the two-pin plug known as the ''Europlug'', probably the most commonly used international plug and included in most international plug adapter kits. It is ungrounded and designed for at most 2.5 A. American and Canadian appliances, which are built to use 110 V, may be damaged if they're plugged into a 220 V unless your appliance is "dual-voltage" (designed for both 110 and 220 V). If not, you'll need a '''transformer''' or '''converter''' (depending on the device) as well as an adapter. ===Holidays=== The biggest event on the Moroccan calendar is the month of [[Ramadan]], during which Muslims fast during the day time and break the fast at sunset. Most restaurants are closed for lunch (with the exception of those catering specifically to tourists), and things generally slow down. Travelling during this time is entirely possible, and the restrictions don't apply to non-Muslims, but it's respectful to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during the fast. At the end of the month is the holiday of '''Eid al-Fitr''', when practically everything closes for as long as a week and transport is packed as everybody heads back home. Alcohol consumption is not prohibited for tourists during Ramadan; there are a few restaurants and bars serving alcohol. Also, alcohol can be purchased in a supermarket, but only if a tourist shows their passport to the staff, as Moroccans are not allowed to buy or consume alcohol during the holy month. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.visitmorocco.com/ Visit Morocco] If you are adventurous at heart, a good time to visit Morocco for trekking in the desert is February. You can enjoy coastal areas or beaches at Essaouira in July. April is the best time to visit the imperial towns in Morocco. The peak tourist season in Morocco is July and August. {{clear|right}} ==Talk== [[File:Amz-plake province Tiznite.JPG|thumbnail|Road sign in Arabic, Berber and French]] {{See also|Moroccan Arabic phrasebook|Arabic phrasebook|Tashelhit phrasebook|French phrasebook}} {{infobox|Some common phrases in Moroccan Arabic:|* Salam: Hello * B'Saha: Good health to you (commonly used expression in Morocco) * Shukran: Thank you * Tanmirt: Thank you (in Tamazight) * Insha Allah: God willing }} The official languages of Morocco are '''[[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]] and [[Berber phrasebook|Berber]]'''. Many Moroccans are multilingual. As for European languages, younger people and people working in touristic areas are more likely to speak English, while older people and those in smaller towns might be more likely to speak some French. Mileage may vary though, of course, and knowing basics in both does help. If you are unsure, just ask which language someone prefers. '''[[Moroccan Arabic phrasebook|Moroccan Arabic]]''' (also known as '''Darija'''), the local vernacular, is spoken natively by about 91% of the population. The dialect is one of the toughest Arabic dialects to learn; native speakers of Arabic outside of Morocco often have trouble understanding the way Moroccans speak. Some consider the dialect a different language altogether. If you don't know the local dialect, do not despair: all Moroccans learn '''Modern Standard Arabic''' at school, so you should have no problems communicating in large cities. [[Tashelhit phrasebook|'''Tashelhit''']] and '''Central Morocco Tamazight''' are the most commonly spoken Berber languages. Tashelhit is mostly spoken in southwestern Morocco, whereas Central Morocco Tamazight is spoken in the Atlas Mountains region of central Morocco. '''[[French phrasebook|French]]''', although it has no official status in the country, is a second language for a lot of Moroccans. The language is held in high regard; French is taught in Moroccan schools from a young age and the language is used in many avenues such as business, government, and commerce. French is often used to transliterate Arabic words. For example, the name Abdullah is transliterated as Abdellah. '''[[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]''' is spoken by some Moroccans living in [[Mediterranean Morocco]]. Moroccans born during and before the 1950s – parts of Morocco were under the administration of [[Spain]] back then – are more likely to be competent in Spanish than their juniors. '''English''' is increasingly becoming popular in Morocco and the Moroccan government is keen on promoting the language. This being said, English is not widely spoken in Morocco and not everyone is happy with the government's decision to espouse English. Tourist destinations that have become popular with Northern European visitors, like [[Taghazout]] or [[Marrakech]], are where you will likely find the most English-speaking Moroccans. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Morocco.svg|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Morocco, with countries in green having visa-free access]] ===Entry requirements=== Morocco's visa policy is relatively liberal compared to other African countries; the country has numerous visa-free arrangements. Nationals of the following countries can enter Morocco visa-free: [[Europe#Get in|Schengen member states]], [[Algeria]], [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[Bahrain]], [[Brazil]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[China]], [[Côte d'Ivoire]], [[Croatia]], [[Republic of Congo]], [[Guinea]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Indonesia]], [[Ireland]], [[Japan]], [[Kuwait]], [[Libya]], [[Macau]], [[Malaysia]], [[Mali]], [[Mexico]], [[New Zealand]], [[Niger]], [[Oman]], [[Peru]], [[Philippines]], [[Qatar]], [[Russia]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Senegal]], [[Singapore]], [[South Korea]], [[Tunisia]], [[Turkey]], [[United Arab Emirates]], [[United Kingdom]], [[United States of America|United States]]. The Moroccan Embassy is usually the first port of call for tourists from countries needing a visa to enter Morocco. They charge the equivalent of UK £17 for a single entry and £26 for double or multiple entries. (Double or Multiple entries will be issued at the embassy's discretion). Visas are usually valid for three months and take around 5-6 working days to process. Visa requirements are completed application forms; four passport-size photos taken within the previous six months; a valid passport with at least one blank page and with a photocopy of the relevant data pages; Fee, payable by postal order only; a photocopy of all flight bookings and a photocopy of hotel reservation. Tourists can stay for up to 90 days, and visa extensions can be frustrating and time-consuming. (You may find it easier to duck into the Spanish-controlled [[Ceuta]] or [[Melilla]] and then re-enter Morocco for a new stamp). Anti-cholera '''vaccination certificates''' may be required of visitors coming from areas where this disease is prevalent and pets need a health certificate less than ten days old, and an anti-rabies certificate less than six months old. ===By plane=== [[File:ROYAL AIR MAROC BOEING 737-800 AND ATR72 AT MARRAKECH MENARA AIRPORT MOROCCO APRIL 2013 (8696076081).jpg|thumb|300px|Planes of the flag carrier Royal Air Maroc at [[Marrakech]] airport]] Major airlines that serve Morocco would most likely be landing at [[Casablanca]]. In addition to destinations across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, one can also fly intercontinental from [[New York City|New York]], [[Washington, D.C.]], [[Miami]], [[Montreal]], [[Rio de Janeiro]] and [[Sao Paulo]]. Other popular entry points include [[Marrakesh]], [[Agadir]], [[Fes]], [[Rabat]], and [[Tangier]], to which many European low-cost carriers fly either year-round or seasonally. '''[http://www.easyjet.com Easyjet]''' &mdash; Now fly at budget prices from [[London]] and [[Manchester]] to [[Marrakech]] and [[Casablanca]]. Another option is from [[CDG|Paris - Charles de Gaulle]] to [[Casablanca]]. '''[http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair]''' &mdash; flies to Morocco from [[Bergamo]], [[Girona]], [[Reus]], [[Madrid]], [[Brussels]], "Frankfurt"-[[Hahn]], Eindhoven, [[London]], [[Porto]]. Flying to [[Fez]] 3 times per week. Flights to Marrakesh are also available. '''[http://www.RoyalAirMaroc.com Royal Air Maroc]''' &mdash; The state airline, which drastically needs a price cut. '''Air Arabia Maroc''' owned by Air Arabia, is another low-cost carrier which flies to other Moroccan destinations, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Tunisia and Turkey. '''[http://www.bintercanarias.com Binter Canarias]''' &mdash; Flights from Canary Islands to Marrakesh. '''[http://www.emirates.com Emirates]''' &mdash; Flights from Dubai to Casablanca. Many visitors also fly to [[Gibraltar]] or [[Malaga]] (which are often considerably cheaper to get to) and take a ferry from [[Algeciras]], [[Tarifa]] or Gibraltar to [[Tangier]]. This is not recommended in summer as literally millions of Moroccans living in [[Europe]] use this passage during the summer holidays. ===By car=== You can enter via ferry or via the two only open border posts on land connected to the Spanish enclaves of [[Ceuta]] and [[Melilla]]. The frontier with Algeria has been closed since 1994. For the closest maritime connection you head for [[Algeciras]] or [[Tarifa]] in southern [[Spain]]. At Algeciras there are ferry services to Ceuta and [[Tangier]] that carry cars. Tarifa has a similar service to Tangier and this is the shortest and fastest route, just 35 minutes. It's possible also to enter by car from [[Mauritania]] via [[Dakhla]]. It might be hard to get into Morocco with a commercial vehicle. Camper vans are acceptable (but they must look like a camper van), but other commercial vehicles might get turned around and prevented from travelling onwards. If you want to take a commercial vehicle, and there is more than one person travelling, it may be worthwhile if a French-speaking person travels to any international border with Morocco of your choice and meets with the head of Customs before you bring in a commercial vehicle. ===By boat=== [[File:Intershipping Detroit Jet.JPG|thumbnail|Boarding a Tarifa - Tangier ferry]] There are several ferry connections to Morocco, mainly from [[Spain]]. The most popular one is from [[Algeciras]] to [[Tangier]], €37, approx 1 hr trip, another one is from the small port of [[Tarifa]], on the southernmost tip of mainland Spain. A free shuttle bus between Tarifa and Algeciras (25 min) is provided for all ferry passengers, so you will have no problems getting to the Algeciras train station. Other Spanish ports with connections to Morocco are [[Malaga]] and [[Almeria]] with departures to [[Melilla]] and the adjacent Moroccan town of [[Nador]]. Ferries from [[Marseille]] and the port of [[Sète]] near [[Montpellier]] in [[France]] also go to Tangier. However, they are rather expensive. The Italian towns of [[Genoa]] and [[Naples]] also have direct connections to Tangier. The British dependency of [[Gibraltar]] has irregular ferries to Tangier (no more than 2 departures per month). Ensure your ticket takes you to the right port, as for instance {{marker|type=go|name=Tanger Med port|lat=35.876528|long=-5.516655}} is 50 km from Tangier city. From the south of Spain (Estepona) a sailing yacht will take you for a few days to the north east of Morocco (Smir). ==Get around== With an area of 446,300 square kilometres (172,300 sq mi), Morocco is a relatively easy country to get around in. A trip from [[Taroudant]] to [[Rabat]] will easily take you 5½ hours by car, depending on traffic conditions. ===By train=== [[File:The train to Fes (3092552771).jpg|thumbnail|Moroccan intercity train]] [[File:Railways Morocco.png|thumb|350px]] Trains are generally the best option because of their speed, frequency and comfort. However, the network is limited, though it travels to many of the main tourist destinations. Two of the main lines, which both operate hourly most of the day are the following: * Al Boraq [[high speed rail]] train, traveling between [[Tangier]] and [[Casablanca]] via [[Rabat]] and Kenitra. Between Tangier and Casablanca, trains take about 2 hours 20 minutes to complete the journey. Until further construction takes place, only the portion between Tangier and Kenitra is along high speed rail, where it travels at 300 km/h, and otherwise the trains travel around 160 km/h. * Line between [[Marrakech]], Casablanca, Rabat, Kenitra, [[Meknes]], and [[Fez]]. While this is not a high speed train, much of journey is at 160 km/h. A branch line to Oujda starts at [[Sidi Kachem]] linking [[Meknes]] and [[Fez]] to the main lines. The rail network is operated by '''[https://www.oncf-voyages.ma/ ONCF]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. Tickets can be purchased both online and at stations and they are very cheap compared to Europe. For examples, Casablanca to Marrakech: 146 dirham for second class, 180 first, 2 hours 39 minutes. The only drawback with Moroccan trains are that they are very frequently delayed, so don't count on the timetables if you are in a hurry. People are incredibly sociable and friendly on the trains in Morocco and you will find yourself perpetually talking to strangers about your journey. Each new person will advise you on some new place you should go or invite you to their home for couscous. Stations in smaller cities are often poorly marked, and your fellow passengers will be more than happy to let you know where you are and when you should get off. It's expected to greet (''Salam'') new passengers entering your compartment, and if you bring fruit, cake, etc., it's common to offer the other passengers something as well. If you spend a little extra for 1st class you increase your chances of meeting someone proficient in many languages. There are three daily departures from Tangier, bound for either [[Oujda]] or Marrakech, although all of them can be used to reach either destination as there are corresponding trains in Sidi Kachem using the opposite branch of the train coming from Tangier. The night trains between Tangier and Marrakech offer couchettes for an extra 100 dirham. This is the only option if you would like to lie down sleeping as there are obstacles between the seats in regular compartments. In summer, train compartments can be hot, with passengers standing everywhere when all seats are taken. First class train cars are supposed to have working air conditioning, however, not all train cars with air conditioning have it in working mode, so it's advisable to bring with you plenty of water (there are no vending machines on [https://www.oncf-voyages.ma/ ONCF]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} trains, unlike SNCF or TrenItalia trains, and the conductor with a vending cart is not often easy to find). For example, the travel time between Tangier and Fez is about 5 hours and with no AC and no water, the ride can become unbearable in the summer desert heat. When you arrive at a station, to reaching the platform you'll need to validate your ticket (checkpoint at the entrance). ===By bus=== Luxury '''buses''' are the next best bet, with almost universal coverage, if somewhat odd departure times in some places. [http://www.ctm.ma/ '''CTM'''], [http://www.supratours.ma/ '''Supratours'''] and some smaller companies provide good comfort with reasonable prices. Supratours buses offer specific tickets to link with the rail system and are bookable on the train company website as Supratours is run by it. All bus companies charge for baggage separately, however CTM is the only one that does this officially and provides baggage receipts. On Supratours, whoever takes your bag will demand up to 20 dirham (pay no more than 5 dirham). Do not pay for luggage that you can take aboard with you and that fits in the overhead locker of between your feet. Touts will try to charge you for that, strongly refuse. Nearly every city has a central bus station (''Gare Routière'') where you can buy tickets to travel from region to region (and in some cities certain companies run their own stations - mostly that applies to the operators CTM (''Gare Voyage'') and partly Supratours). You can either choose the buses for tourists with air-conditioning and a TV. Or you can also take the local buses which cost only 25-50% of the tourist buses and are much more fun. They are not very comfortable, but you can get in contact with the local people and learn a lot about the country. The buses often take longer routes than the big ones, so you can see villages you would never get to as a "normal" tourist. For heat-sensitive people this is not advisable though, as locals may tell you that 35 degrees is "cool" and no reason for opening a window. The route from Rissani, Erfoud, and Er Rachidia to Meknes and Fez, while long, runs through the Middle and High Atlas and is particularly scenic. At the large bus stations (''Gare Routière''), always buy your ticket at the ticket window inside of the bus station. Otherwise you will mostly overpay. Several touts will approach you as you enter the bus station, and try to sell you a ticket. While a local will get a proper ticket with them (because they know the prices), tourists will most certainly be overcharged. Also, the ticket windows often (must) have prices and time tables displayed. You might get the ticket with the same guy that approached you in the beginning, but it will consequently be much cheaper. Local intercity buses can be entered along the highway or main road, where you will pay the conductor. Always ask for the price before entering, and if too high, refuse. At least the conductors will understand, that you will not board if too high and give you a good price. Supratours and CTM buses will not stop anywhere for you to enter except for the main bus stations&mdash;the driver is not allowed to sell tickets. Luxury buses operated by [http://www.ctm.ma CTM] are also inexpensive and offer an easier travelling experience than local buses. [http://www.supratours.ma/ Supratours], a major rival of CTM, complements the train network to Essaouira and all major Atlantic-coast towns south to Marrakech. CTM and Supratours tickets can often not be booked online directly with the bus operator using a foreign bank card. In this case, they can either be bought in person at the bus stations, or using [https://www.marrakechtickets.co.uk/ Marrakech Tickets]. Note that Marrakech Tickets will charge a significant fee and take a few hours (or even days) to process your request, which involves sending you an invoice by email. '''Local intercity buses''' are a completely valid choice for the hardier traveller, and often even have more leg room than the luxury buses although this may be just because the seat in front of you is disintegrating. They can be extraordinarily slow as they will stop for anyone, anywhere, and only luxury buses are air conditioned (and locals hate open windows). Although, one exception seems to be the [[Agadir]]-[[Essaouira]] route, where even local buses are very fast. Probably due to the number of buses on this route and the desire to pick up as many passengers as possible along the way (not going to happen if overtaken by another company). ===By e-hailing=== You can hail a taxi or private car with the apps of Careem, Heetch, Roby and InDrive. Uber stopped operations in Morocco in 2018{{go|lastedit=2024-05-21}} ===By taxi=== [[File:Grand Taxi Ait Melloul.jpg|thumb|Grand taxi]] Travel by taxi is common in Morocco. There are two sorts: *''Petit taxi'' used only within the area of the town *''Grand taxi'' can be used for trips between towns, and for larger groups ====Petit taxi==== Prices for petit taxi are reasonable, and it's the law that taxis in town should have a meter&mdash;although they are not always on. Insist that the driver starts the meter, although in the more touristy cities drivers will refuse point-blank. If not, ask for the fare before getting in (but it will be more expensive). You can and should bargain the fare down, ideally to an amount for which you have exact change, as the driver often doesn't have it. There often is a minimum fare for trips during the day and another during the night, both listed on a sticker along with other prices in the taxi. And because in some small cities, the metered fare is always lower than the minimum fare, trips are not metered there, and the price is fixed at the minimum fare. In such cities without metered taxis, those stickers are sometimes missing as well. Ask an uninvolved local whether there is such a minimum fare and how high it is (7 dirham is reasonable during the day, 10 at night). Petit taxis are not allowed to leave the city borders and is thus not an option for travelling between cities. ====Grand taxi==== [[File:Morocco, Souss-Massa-Draa Region, Ouarzazate Province, Tazenakht (4).JPG|thumbnail|Grand taxis are often 1970s and 1980s Peugeots and Mercedes]] The grand taxi is a shared, generally long-distance taxi, with a fixed rate for specific route; the driver stopping and picking up passengers like a bus. Grand taxis are usually found near main bus stops. Negotiate on price if you want a journey to yourself and this will be based on distance travelled and whether you are returning—but price per taxi should not depend on the number of passengers in your group. When sharing grand taxi with others, drivers may cheat tourist-looking passengers charging higher—look how much locals around you pay; don't worry to ask other passengers about the normal price, before boarding or even when you're in. Fares are semi-fixed and shared equally between passengers. However, there are six passenger seats per car not four (this is for the ubiquitous Mercedes, there are 8 or 9 seats in the bigger Peugeots in the southeast). Two people are expected to share the front seat, with four across the back. If you want to leave immediately or you want extra space you can pay for any additional empty seats. Grand taxis generally cost less than a luxury bus but more than the local bus. Late at night, expect to be charged a little more than at daytime, and also to pay for all the seats in the car as other customers probably won't show up that late. Grand taxis formerly were 10-year-old Mercedes, regular saloon cars that in Europe are used for up to 4 passengers plus driver. However, nowadays they are replaced more and more by Peugeot vans. For a grand taxi, it is normal to share a car between up to 6 passengers. The front seat is normally given to two women. Some travellers often pay for 2 seats that remain unoccupied to travel with more space inside, and hence comfort. Beware, some taxi drivers will refuse to drive off until the taxi is full, potentially causing you delays. Alternatively, for a relatively reasonable sum (depending on the driver), you can hire a grand taxi in Marrakech for the entire day, allowing you to explore the sights of the surrounding region. Most grand taxis operate only on a single route and that for trips outside of their licensed route they need to get permission from police first. Taxi owners vie with each other to add extras such as sunshades. A clean vehicle and smart driver is usually a good sign of a well maintained vehicle. Grand taxis can also be hired '''privately''' for approximately the price of two petit taxis for shorter trips. This is useful if your party is of four or more. If you plan to take a grand taxi for a custom tour it is best to book one day ahead to give the driver time to get this permission. ===By plane=== Domestic flying is not a popular means of transportation; however, Royal Air Maroc, the national flag carrier, has an excellent but expensive network to most cities. Air Arabia is another choice. Starting in 2024, European low-cost carrier [https://www.ryanair.com Ryanair] operates 11 domestic routes in Morocco between several cities for fares starting as low as 190 dirham, and may even beat the train on both speed and price in some cases, though with limited frequency and baggage allowances. ===By tramway=== The [http://www.casatramway.ma/ Casablanca tramway] is 30 km long, with 49 stops, and Y-shaped. Tickets cost 6 dirham; buy your ticket before boarding. You have a choice between a rechargeable ticket valid for 10 journeys only, or a rechargeable card, valid for 4 years. This is, after the [http://www.tram-way.ma Rabat-Salé tramway]{{Dead link|date=July 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, the second tram system in Morocco, but also the largest system in number of stations and the length of the route. ===By car=== {{see also|Driving in Morocco}} In many ways the traffic culture is different from what you would experience in western countries. The main road network is in good condition but due to the lack of dedicated cycling lanes and pedestrian paths in all but the largest cities, they are shared by many cyclists, pedestrians and horse-drawn vehicles. Roads have a good surface, although some are very narrow, in most cases only one narrow lane in each direction. Many roads in the south marked as sealed actually have only a central strip, one lane wide, sealed with wide shoulders to be used every time you meet oncoming traffic and this is a sensible economic solution in these areas of sparse traffic and long straight roads – except when you can not see oncoming traffic because of windblown dust! Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly illegal even if you drink just one beer. ===By thumb=== Hitching is a routine form of travel in Morocco. Particularly in large farm trucks which supplement income by picking up paying passengers. Price is about half that of a grand taxi. Expect to ride in the back with lots of locals. ==See== [[File:Maroc Marrakech Jemaa-el-Fna Luc Viatour.JPG|thumbnail|Jemaa-el-Fna square in Marrakech]] [[File:Chefchaouen, Morocco (5409528959) (3).jpg|thumbnail|Chefchaouen]] [[File:02-beach-agadir-morocco.JPG|thumbnail|At the beach of Agadir]] Movie-famous '''[[Casablanca]]''' might be the most famous of Moroccan cities and is home to the huge '''Hassan II mosque''', the second largest mosque in the world with only the Grand Mosque of Mecca surpassing it. Many travellers quickly leave this vibrant and modernist metropolis on a search for a more traditional Moroccan experience, but admiring the impressive colonial architecture, Hispano-Moorish and art-deco outlook of the city centre is actually time well spent. '''[[Marrakesh]]''', known as the "Red City" and probably the most prominent former imperial capital, will leave you with memories to cherish for life. Spend your days wandering through the lively souqs, admiring the old '''gates and defense walls''', see the Saadian Tombs, the remnants of the El Badi Palace and visit the Koutoubia Mosque with its 12th century minaret. However, when evening falls make sure to head back to '''Jamaa el-Fnaa''', the largest square in Africa, as it fills up with steam-producing food stalls. Indulge in the bustling activity there, listen to Arabic story tellers, watch magicians and Chleuh dancers. '''[[Fez]]''', once Morocco's capital, is another gorgeous imperial city. Get lost in its lovely labyrinth of narrow Medieval streets, enjoy its huge medina, see the beautiful city gates, the ancient '''University of Al-Karaouine''' and the '''Bou Inania Madrasa'''. Also, make sure to visit a traditional '''leather tanning factory'''. The city of '''[[Meknes]]''' is often called the "Versailles of Morocco" for its beauty. Its lovely Spanish-Moorish style centre is surrounded by tall city walls with impressive gates and you'll be able to see the 17th century blend of European and Islamic cultures even today. For a more laid-back experience of medina life, catch a sea breeze at the coastal towns of '''[[Asilah]]''' or lovely '''[[Essaouira]]'''. The blue-washed town of '''[[Chefchaouen]]''' is an old time travellers' favourite and a great starting point to explore the Rif Mountains. Other impressive mountain scenery can be in found in the Atlas Mountains. On your way to the desert, make sure not to miss the stunning '''Todra gorge''' near [[Tinghir]]. The ancient fortified city of '''[[Aït-Benhaddou]]''' is another must-see sight. Although rainstorms damage the mud-brick kasbahs time and again, this mostly abandoned village remains an impressive sight and has been the décor for a range of movies, including ''Lawrence of Arabia'' and ''Gladiator''. The Kingdom of Morocco retains a number of '''royal residential palaces''' dating to the late 12th century. They are often known as '''Dar al-Makhzen''', in reference to its monarchical institution. ==Do== ===Trekking=== Climb North Africa's highest mountain '''Mt. Toubkal''' (''Jebel Toubkal'') from [[Imlil]], passing lovely adobe villages and exploring the gorgeous Ourika and Amizmiz valleys on the way. Or just trek the [[High Atlas]] mountains. The stunning panoramic views from the top will make it worth every bit of your effort to get there. Other praised hiking routes lead through the beautiful Ameln Valley in the Anti-Atlas and the forests of the '''[[Middle Atlas]]'''. ===Tourist tours=== Marrakech can make a good base for tours all over Morocco, from exploring the [[High Atlas]], over riding the camel or quad, to 1-4 days '''Sahara treks'''. A sheer endless number of tour providers are waiting for the willing-to-pay tourist. Hop on a camel back for a trip through the golden '''Sahara sand dunes''' at [[Erg Chebbi]], near [[Merzouga]]. Spend the night in a desert tent, under the incredibly starred sky. Somewhat less easy to reach but therefor also less crowded are the dunes of [[Erg Chigaga]] near [[M'hamid]]. ===Hammams=== [[File:2006 Chefchaouen-Hamam.jpg|thumbnail|Hammam in Chefchaouen]] There are two types of Hammam (steam baths) across Morocco. The first is the '''tourist hammam''', where you can go and be pampered and scrubbed by an experienced staff member. As these are promoted only to tourists, they are the more expensive option with pricing usually around 150 dirham for a hammam. They are not proper hammams, but they are nonetheless enjoyable, especially for the timid. Your hotel can recommend a good one. The second option is to visit a '''"popular" Hammam'''. Popular hammams are the places where the locals go. Ask the staff at your hotel where they would go. At the popular hammams, you do it all yourself. To make the most of a popular hammam, you need to take a scrubbing mitten (available cheap in the souks), a towel, and some extra underwear (otherwise, you will be going home without any, as it will be sopping wet). Popular hammams are often only identified by tiles around a door and entrance way. If you do not speak French or Arabic, it could be a daunting, or at least a very memorable, experience. Men & women have either separate session times or separate hammams. '''Nudity in a popular hammam is strictly forbidden''' for men, so be prepared to wear your underwear or a bathing suit. For women, you'll see some wearing underwear and some going naked. Whilst in a popular hammam, you may be offered help and a massage from another person. It is essential to remember that this '''massage is nothing but a massage''', with no other intentions. Sexual contact or presumption of sexual contact does not occur in these places. If you accept a massage, be prepared to return the favour. Normal entrance prices for a popular hammam are {{MAD|7-15}}, a scrub will cost around {{MAD|30}}, and a massage another {{MAD|30}}. === Sports === * '''Football:''' the men's national soccer team play internationals at various venues. The top tiers for clubs are Botola 1 and 2, each with 16 teams, and an August-May playing season as in Europe. : Africa Cup of Nations is staged in Morocco 21 Dec 2025 – 18 Jan 2026, with 16 national men's teams competing. The host cities are Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Marrakesh, Agadir and Fez. European clubs are grumbling at this timing as they have to release their African star players for a month. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Moroccan dirham | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;dirham | date=January 2025 | USD=9.0 | EUR=10.5 | GBP=12.0 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mad-moroccan-dirham XE.com] }} [[File:Moroccan dirham.jpg|thumb|Dirham banknotes, with Hassan Tower in the background ([[Rabat]])]] The local currency is the '''Moroccan dirham''', sometimes symbolised as "'''Dh'''", "'''Dhs''', "'''DH'''", "'''درهم''', or the plural form of "'''دراهم'''" or "'''Dhm'''" (ISO code: '''MAD'''). Wikivoyage articles will use ''dirham'' to denote the currency. It's divided into 100 santime or centimes (c). There are coins in denominations of 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, 1, 2, 5 and 10 dirham, although coins smaller than 20c are rarely seen in circulation these days. Banknotes are available in denominations of 20, 50, 100 and 200 dirham. While the dirham is the only currency officially accepted in Morocco, some hotels may accept your euros and US dollars unofficially. Try to have as many small notes as possible, even accommodations tend to never have any change ready. But also in general, keep larger bills hidden separately, just in case. Prices in Morocco are quite stable, i.e. the references you find in this guide, even if a couple of years old, are very reliable. '''Note:''' Dirham may generally not be exported or imported. A tolerance of 2,000 dirham applies to tourists; more information can be found at the [http://www.douane.gov.ma/ Moroccan customs website]. ==== Money exchange ==== It is illegal to take more than 2,000 dirham of local currency out of the country, so you can't buy dirham outside of Morocco. Airport security conduct periodic currency checks and will confiscate dirham to be taken out of the country. By law, exchange rates should be the same at all banks and official exchanges. Make a note of the exact rates before you go to make sure you're getting a fair deal. Besides banks and dedicated exchange offices, major post offices provide exchange, and work until late hours. Don't expect to see many banks in the ''souqs'' or ''medinas'', although in larger cities there is often an ATM near the main gates, and even one or two inside the large souqs (if you manage to find your way). You may also encounter "helpful" people who will exchange US dollars or euros for dirham. Unofficial exchange on the streets outside souqs or medinas doesn't seem to exist. While changing money from a common widely used currency (e.g. USD or Euros) to dirhams will be easy in cities regularly visited by tourists, changing from dirhams to another currency due to a number of barriers, which include: * For foreigners, the Official "Bureau de Change" won't change dirhams to other currency unless the foreigner has a receipt showing they changed at least that amount of currency into dirhams through a money changer. An ATM withdrawal receipt will not be accepted as proof of currency conversion. * Except at Morocco's international airports, money changers are not permitted to change dirhams into a foreign currency, unless the person seeking the money change has a Moroccan identification card. * If you are flying in the early morning or late evening, money changers at the airport may all be closed. For instance at Rabat airport, money changers do not open until 7 am. * On Sundays, if you are changing money to dirhams, non-bank money changers may not issue receipts. Due to these barriers, it is recommended that you: * If possible, take flights out of the country during the daytime or early to mid evening. * Bring some foreign currency and change it in Morocco, so that you can change what you have leftover at the end of your trip out of dirhams. * Prior to changing money to dirhams, confirm that you will receive a receipt. * Minimize the amount of cash in dirhams that you will have at the end of your trip. ==== ATMs ==== ATMs can be found near tourist hotels and in the modern ''ville nouvelle'' shopping districts. Make sure that the ATM accepts foreign cards (look for the Maestro, Cirrus or Plus logos) ''before'' you put your card in. Also be aware that they are not refilled during weekends in smaller towns, so get enough cash for the weekend on Friday or Saturday morning. As of March 2024, the Al Barid bank does not charge '''ATM fees'''. Also for local banks it's more likely that withdrawing money is for free (apart from the fee your bank charges). About 30 dirham are charged for withdrawals by some banks like Société Générale, BCME, Bank Populaire, BMCI (BNP Paribas), Attijariwafa and others. It could happen that an ATM does not display any fees, you don't get a receipt and on your bank account you notice that they charged anyhow. Talk to your bank and try to reject these fees to make this practice harder in the future. For buying something: If there is no price tag, '''ask for the price first'''. ==== Payment at the airport ==== In event that you plan on spending your remaining dirhams at a Moroccan airport, please note that: * Prices at the stores are shown in Euros, not dirhams. * Expect that some stores will not accept dirhams and some may only accept dirhams for select items in the store. * Like many countries' airports, the cost of some purchases may be multiple times the cost of buying it elsewhere. ===Shopping=== {{infobox|What does it cost? (May 2019)|* Oranges: 4 dirham/kg * Bananas: 8-10 dirham/kg * Melon: 8 dirham/kg * Dates: 10-30 dirham/kg, depending on the quality * Dried Curcuma roots: 50 dirham/kg * Water 1.5 l: 5-6 dirham * Coke 0.5 l: 5.50 dirham * Thé a la menthe / cafe noir: 6-8 dirham * Tagin or couscous: 25-60 dirham, depending on how touristy * Grand taxi: 50-60 dirham / 100 km * Bus: 20-30 dirham / 100 km * Double room: from 170-300 dirham * Pack of Marlboros: 35 dirham * Tobacco for shisha: 20 dirham * Argan oil: from 20 dirham / 100 ml * Rhassoul/ghassoul ½ kg: 8 dirham * Small "silver" teapot (2-3 cups): 10-15 dirham + 30 dirham for heat glove |}} ====What to buy==== [[File:Souks Marrakech 039.JPG|thumbnail|Souvenir shop in the souq of Marrakech]] Apart from classic tourist souvenirs like postcards and trinkets, here are some things from this region that are hard to find elsewhere, or even unique: * '''Birad''' &ndash; Classic Moroccan tea pots. * '''Carpets''' &ndash; Genuine handmade Berber carpets can be purchased direct from the artisans who weave them. If you go to small villages, such as Anzal, in the province of Ouarzazate, you can visit the weavers, watch them work, and they will happily serve you tea and show you their products. * '''Dates''' &ndash; 10 dirham for an orange box seems an adequate price after some bargaining. However, in Europe dates are quite cheap as well, especially when bought at Middle Eastern or Turkish shops. In the end, how much sugar is really good for you? * '''Djellabah''' &ndash; Classic Moroccan designer robe with a hood. Often come in intricate designs and some are suited for warm weather while other heavier styles are for the cold. * '''Leatherware''' &ndash; Morocco has a really huge production of leather goods. Markets are full of mediocre models (you will notice that they use the same cuts and zippers for all the different types of cloths) and designer shops are hard to find. Instead, maybe you want to opt for pure leather itself and do the good work yourself back home&mdash;purses, vests, whatever ... stitching and sewing is becoming more and more popular in Europe again. * '''Rhassoul/ghassoul''' &ndash; Also called wash soil in Europe, where it costs about 10 times as much as in Morocco. * '''T-shirts''' &ndash; If you're looking for T-shirts, consider designer items by Kawibi&mdash;they look much more inspiring than boring traditional set of themes. They are available in duty-free stores, Atlas Airport Hotel near Casablanca and other places. * '''Spices and black soap:''' Morocco is famous for its spices and you will see black soap at every herbs shops in the Medinas. Although spices markets are beautiful and perfect for pictures, the cheapest place to buy them is probably Carrefour. If you get the chance, go to the big supermarkets 5 - 10 km outside the centre of the cities, where you will find the same spices they sell in the Medina, but for one tenth of the price! ====What not to buy==== * '''Geodes''' &ndash; Pink and purple dyed quartz are widely sold along with fake galena geodes which are often described as "cobalt geodes". * '''Trilobite fossils''' &ndash; Unless you are an expert, you will most likely be buying a fake. * '''Artisanal''' or '''cooperative''' &ndash; These are catch phrases put up for tourists and just mean an increased price, but not necessarily higher quality or higher sustainability. Such facts can barely be verified and whether an oil is good or not is a poker game. Either way, you are always better off buying where locals do, because there you can expect quality also locals would go for. Get advice from your ho(s)tel staff where to buy good quality and at what price, but never let them show you directly. And if they say it is their cousin or friend, it is better to avoid it. Then go around the market for even more asking and checking of the lower price barrier of the merchants. Only after that decide what to buy and at what price. * '''Argan oil''' &ndash; Forget about it. It is impossible to tell whether you got something proper. Just because a lady in the shop is kneading stuff in oil, doesn't mean it is anyhow related to the oil they sell. Just because a pressing machine is inside the shop, and they claim to use it to get the oil, it does not mean they actually do so. Just because your guide or the shop owner claim it is the best Argan oil around, doesn't mean it is. Just because they claim it is locally produced, organic (bio), artesanal, from a collective or has fancy logos and graphics, does not mean it is actually genuine&mdash;there is no such thing as a proper Moroccan certification. And just because the price is high does not mean either, it is good quality. Margins for Argan Oil are high, it is hard to identify genuine oil, and tourists are begging to be ripped off ... it only makes sense that this is a big scam you should avoid. Nevertheless, if you are really keen on getting some oil, look up the price for Argan oil in Europe&mdash;it is about €16/250 ml. Only this is what you should use as a base for bargaining. But you are probably better off not paying more than half than that in Morocco. Probably buying in a regular supermarket would be the best idea. Note that of course 100 ml bottles are sold at a far higher price (for tourists in little shops), because they can be carried as hand luggage .... so, what is really the point in the end in paying more than at home, and not even being sure about the product's quality? ===Bargaining=== [[File:Tangier Medina 4.JPG|thumbnail|Artisan in the medina of Tangier]] Remember that [[haggle|bargaining]] in the souks is expected. It is not really possible to give an accurate indication of how much to start the bargaining at in relation to the initial asking price, but a general idea would be to aim for approximately 50% off. Prices are set on a daily, even hourly, basis, depending on how much has been sold on a given day (or period of hours), while also reflecting the vendor's personal estimation of the potential client. The souks are often a good reflection of the basic economic principles of supply and demand, particularly with regard to the demand side. If a lot of products have been sold by a particular merchant he/she will raise the price, and may refuse to sell any more products for the rest of that day (or for days) unless the price is much higher than usual. If there are many tourists around prices go higher and bargaining even small amounts off the asking price becomes quite difficult. In addition, the seller will generally inspect the client, whose dress and possessions (particularly if the potential client sports an expensive Swiss watch, camera, etc.) are usually the main indication of how high the price may be set above the usual. However, the potential client's attitude is also taken into consideration. Taking all this and other factors into account (such as the time of day, day of the week, and season), initial prices may be up to 50 times or more in excess of normal prices, especially for more expensive items, such as carpets. '''Carpets''', however, are a very specialized item and it is necessary to have at least a cursory understanding of production techniques and qualities. If possible, an ability to distinguish between hand-made and machine-made carpets, hand-dyes, and the like is helpful to avoid being utterly duped. '''Bargaining is an enjoyable experience for most vendors''' and they prefer clients that don't appear hurried and are willing to take the time to negotiate. It is most often actually necessary to give reasons why you believe the price should be lower. The reasons you might give are limited only by your imagination and often lead to some very entertaining discussions. Common reasons may include: the price of the item elsewhere, the item not being exactly what you are after, the fact that you have purchased other items from the stall/store, that you have built a rapport with the vendor after discussing football and so forth. On the other hand, '''if there is little movement in the price after some time, the best advice is to begin leaving''', this often has the result of kick-starting the bidding anew, and if not, it is likely that the merchant is actually unwilling to go further below a given price, however absurd. It is also important to '''show a genuine interest in the workmanship''' of the product for sale, no matter how uninterested you may actually be in what you are buying. This does not, however, mean that you should appear over-enthusiastic, as this will encourage the vendor to hold his or her price. Rather, it is important to project a critical appreciation for each article/object. Any defects are either unacceptable or a further opportunity to bargain the price down. You should take caution to never begin bidding for unwanted items or to give the vendor a price you are unwilling or unable (with cash on hand) to pay. Try to avoid paying by credit card at all costs. In the event you do pay by credit card, never let it out of your sight and demand as many receipts as possible. There is typically a credit card carbon copy and an official shop receipt. '''Never tell a vendor where you are staying''' and '''never tell a vendor how much you paid for any other purchases'''. Just say you got a good price and you want a good price from him or her too. It's best to be politely passive aggressive, sometimes for hours if you really want to save a few dirhams. And, above all, never be afraid to say 'No'. It must also be said that, as is true for buyers, not all sellers are actually very good at what they do. A vendor that is completely uninterested or even aggressive is unlikely to give a good price. Move on. Last but not least, when you spend all of your holiday in the same place, especially in smaller, touristy towns: Vendors deal with tourists all the time. Most tourists buy souvenirs just before flying home, most tourists try the "walk out" trick as part of their bargaining strategies. It is not unheard of that tourists haggle for a carpet on a Friday, walk out and when they come back the next day, expecting a lower offer, the price actually increases. The vendor knows that you are likely to catch a flight the same day and that your second visit is actually your last chance to buy the carpet. ==Eat== [[File:Casa didier55 009.jpg|thumb|Casablanca's ''souk'']] {{see also|North African cuisine}} Moroccan cuisine is often reputed to be some of the best in the world, with countless dishes and variations proudly bearing the country's colonial and Arabic influences; see [[French cuisine]] and [[Middle Eastern cuisine]]. Unfortunately as a tourist through Morocco, especially if you're on a budget, you'll be limited to the handful of dishes that seem to have a monopoly on cafe and restaurant menus throughout the country. Most restaurants serve dishes foreign to Morocco considering that Moroccans can eat their domestic dishes at home. Apart from major cities, Moroccans do not generally eat out in restaurants so choice is generally limited to international fare such as French, Italian and Chinese cuisine. ===Traditional cuisine=== * '''''Bissara''''', a thick glop made from split peas and a generous wallop of olive oil can be found bubbling away near markets and in medinas in the mornings. Rarely available in touristy places. * '''Couscous''', made from semolina grains and steamed in a colander-like dish known as a ''couscoussière'' is a staple food for most North Africans. It can be served as an accompaniment to a stew or ''tagine'', or mixed with meat and vegetables and presented as a main course. Manual preparation (i.e. not "instant couscous") takes hours. Any restaurant that has couscous on the regular menu should be avoided, it will not be the real thing. But lots of restaurants serve couscous once a week (usually Fridays) for lunch and advertise this widely - they tend to make real couscous and often for much better prices. * '''Fish''' on southern beaches is usually very fresh (caught the same day) and cheap. A mixed fish plate comes for about 25 dirham at stalls in the markets of fishing villages, a huge plate of grilled sardines is 15-20 dirham. If bought fresh at the fish market, a kilogram of fish is 5-20 dirham (the latter for a small kind of tuna). Most restaurants in fishing towns have a BBQ in front and will grill any fish you bring them for 30 dirham (includes fries, a salad and bread). Fish is gutted on demand at the markets, just tell them how you want to prepare it (for a BBQ you get a nice butterfly cut, for tagine it is just gutted). A small tip of 1-2 dirham is appropriate for the gutting. * '''''Ghoulal''''': Land snails in a delicious, rich broth can be found at least as far south as Marrakesh at street food stalls. Servings start as low as 3 dirham, in Marrakesh's main square at 10 for the first serving, 5 for every subsequent serving. * '''''Harira''''' is a simple soup made from lentils, chick peas, lamb stock, tomatoes and vegetables, that is nourishing but light on the stomach and can be eaten as part of any meal. Most Moroccans have it at least once a week, many every day. It is even part of the traditional first meal after sunset during Ramadan in Morocco: dates, followed by harira. A serving starts at 3 dirham; on menus it is often referred to as just ''moroccan soup'' or in French, ''soupe marocaine''. It is probably the most "Moroccan" dish of all and one cannot really claim to have been to Morocco without having tried it at least once. * '''''Khlea''''' (also: '''''kaliya''''') might be more on the adventurous side, taste-wise: meat preserved in fat (mostly lamb, but camel too is produced on industrial scale), usually prepared in a tagine with egg and tomato. The result is very fatty, the meat has a very intense taste and is usually quite chewy. The upside: Starting at 15 dirham, this will get you going for half a day at least. Might be hard to get in touristy restaurants. * '''''Pastilla''''' is a popular delicacy in Morocco: Pulled meat in a flaky dough, topped with sugar and cinnamon. Originally made with pigeon fledglings, nowadays the most common variety is made with chicken, though lamb, beef or fish are sometimes used as well. It is sometimes available as a starter on demand, but the real thing is the size of a proper pie and takes hours to prepare. A proper, pre-ordered pigeon fledgling pastilla is at least 200 dirham, 300 to 400 dirham in most touristy places. A large pastilla serves 2 to 4 people. * '''''Sfenj''''': These deep fried donuts from unsweetened yeast dough, dusted with sugar, are a popular and very filling snack that can be found throughout the country for 1 dirham per piece. They want to be eaten very fresh. Look out for stalls with a huge bowl of hot oil. [[File:Tajine Moroccan.jpg|thumb|Tagine]] *'''Tagine''' (or ''tajine''): One cannot be in the country without seeing a "tagine the dish" on the menu or a "tagine, the cooking ware" in the wild at least once. The very short version is: a "tagine de ..." on a menu is a "steamed ... in a clay pot". Everything can go into a tagine, but restaurants offer only very few dishes using the same spice formulas, which might become boring soon - albeit, with some luck pigeon or khlea can be found: ** tagine de kefta: meatballs, usually with an egg and anything from "a few" to "lots of" vegetables; can be rather spicy ** tagine de légumes: vegetables only (but don't count on vegetarian broth) ** tagine de poulet: chicken, usually with preserved lemons ("en citron") ** tagine aux pruneaux: lamb or, rarely, beef, with prunes and almonds ** tagine de bœuf/agneau/dromadaire/chèvre: beef/lamb/camel/goat with vegetables ** tagine de(s) poisson/crevettes/poulpe: fish/shrimp/octopus (in coastal regions) ** * '''Msemen:''' kind of puff pastry pancakes that you can buy everywhere on the street. They can be sided to savory or sweet dishes. Most likely you will find msemen for breakfast, with boiled or smashed eggs, with spreadable cheese or with honey and jam. Something you can also find the stuffed version, with vegetables like tomato and onions. * Many cafés (see Drink) and restaurants also offer good value '''''petit déjeuner''''' breakfast deals, which basically include a tea or coffee, orange juice (''jus d'orange'') and a croissant or bread with marmalade from 10 dirham. * At many cheap eating places stews like loubia (white beans), adassa (lentils) and ker ain (sheep foot with chickpeas) are on offer. ===Snacks and fast food=== Snackers and budget watchers are well catered for in Morocco. '''Rotisserie chicken''' shops abound, where you can get a quarter chicken served with fries and salad for around 20 dirham. '''Sandwiches''' (from 10 dirham) served from rotisserie chicken shops or hole-in-the-wall establishments are also popular. These fresh crusty baguettes are stuffed with any number of fillings including tuna, chicken, ''brochettes'' and a variety of salads. This is all usually topped off with the obligatory wad of French fries stuffed into the sandwich and lashings of mayonnaise squeezed on top. You may also see hawkers and vendors selling a variety of '''nuts''', steamed '''broad beans''' and barbecued '''corn cobs'''. ==Drink== [[File:The menthe.jpg|thumbnail|A glass of mint tea]] === Water === Bottled water is widely available. Popular brands of water include Oulmes (sparkling) and Sidi Ali, Sidi Harazem and Ain Saiss Danone (still). The latter has a slightly mineral and metallic taste. Nothing with a high mineralization produced. As a rule, do not drink tap water at all in Morocco, even in hotels, unless your stomach is "trained": Overall the quality is excellent until it reaches the house and if there is a problem the government issues warnings in time, but how water is stored in the house and the condition of the plumbing is questionable. Since a 1l bottle of water is only 5 to 7 dirham, most travelers will prefer to stick to it instead of taking the risk of 2 days of diarrhea. === Tea === Any traveller will be offered '''mint tea''' at least once a day. Even the most financially modest Moroccan is equipped with a tea pot and a few glasses. Although sometimes the offer is more of a lure into a shop than a hospitable gesture, it is polite to accept. Before drinking, look the host in the eye and say ''"ba saha ou raha"'' or just '''saha''''. It means enjoy and relax and any local will be impressed with your language skills. Be aware, that this is not pure mint tea: It is green tea (gunpowder) to which mint is added after an initial steeping. As such, it can be pretty strong, especially if one is not used to caffeine. In deserts, it tends to be really strong. Varieties are tea with '''chiba''' (wormwood), available in the winter in the north and with safron, in the region of Ouarzazate. === Juice === Juice stands are everywhere in the towns, especially Marrakech, with a remarkable variety. Orange (''limon'') is most popular, but depending on the season vendors will sell nearly every fruit in existence. Pomegranate (''rumman'') is a winter favorite. In general the equipment and glasses are clean and the juice is safe to drink, but nothing is guaranteed. === Alcohol === Although a predominantly Muslim country, Morocco is '''not dry'''. Alcohol is available in some restaurants, bars, supermarkets (Carrefour and Attacadao), clubs, hotels and discos; some (not strictly legal) liquor stores can be found as well with some research. Lots of Moroccans enjoy a drink although it is disapproved of in public places. The local brew of choice carries the highly original name of Casablanca Beer. It is a full flavored lager and enjoyable with the local cuisine or as a refreshment. The other two major Moroccan beers are Flag Special and Stork. Also you can find local judeo-berber vodka, mild anise flavored and brewed from figs (beware, though, none is produced legally and quality control is non-existent - if the taste reminds you of furniture polish, stay away). Morocco also produces various wines - some of remarkable quality. A bottle in supermarkets start at 35 dirham and go up to 1,000 dirham; a good quality wine can already be had for 50 dirham. In most riads or hotels that serve food but no alcohol, explicitly asking for a bottle of wine will magically make it appear 20 minutes later, though with a markup of at least 100%. '''Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal even if you drank just one beer'''. === Places === Cafes and bars are mostly visited by men only, a solo woman may feel more comfortable having a drink or snack at a pastry shop or restaurant. This doesn't apply to couples though. ==Sleep== [[File:HOTEL CONTINENTAL TANGER MOROCCO APRIL 2013 (8735610038).jpg|thumbnail|Inside Hotel Continental, the grand old hotel of Tangier]] There are the usual more modern '''hotels''' or equivalent found anywhere in the big cities and larger towns around Morocco. On the lower end of the budget scale, HI-affiliated '''[[Hostels|youth hostels]]''' can be found in the major cities (dorm beds from around 50 dirham) while the cheapest '''budget hotels''' (singles from around 65 dirham) are usually located in the ''medina''. Newer, cleaner and slightly more expensive budget (singles from around 75 dirham) and mid-range hotels that are sprinkled throughout the ''ville nouvelles''. Hotels can sometimes be very basic and often lack hot water and showers, while others will charge you 5-10 dirham for a hot water shower. With the exception of large high end hotels, expect the hot water supply in hotels to not be as stable as in more established countries. In Marrakech, MHamid, near Ourzazate and possibly other places, the hot water temperature varies dramatically while you take a shower. Instead, consider public ''hammams'' as there are quite a lot of them in the ''medina'' and in rural areas. Hotels in Morocco are a matter of choice and fit every budget. Classified hotels are 1-star (simple) to 5-star (luxury), and are classified as an ''auberge'', ''riad'', rural ''gîtes d'étape'' or hotel. Stays usually include breakfast, and many include dinner. '''''Auberges''''' are found in the country or in rural small towns, and are built in the traditional mud (''kasbah'') style, many with wood burning fireplaces and salons or roof terraces for taking meals. Auberge are very comfortable, small and usually family run and owned. '''Riads''' are traditional Moroccan-style housing with a rectangular, multi-storey building and an enclosed interior courtyard/garden. They have thick walls which can serve to moderate the outside temperature fluctuations, making them cooler during the day. Riads are popular in [[Marrakech]], [[Essaouira]] and [[Fes]], or anywhere there is a medina (old city). They are usually small (about 6 rooms or less), clean and charming, often with to a lovely walled garden where breakfast is served on an inner patio or up on a roof terrace. Riads are usually too small to have a swimming pool, but may have what is called a tiny plunge pool to cool off in during summer months. Some riads are in former merchant houses or palaces and may have large opulent rooms and gardens. (Note, riads are constructed adjacent to one another, and often have smaller windows, letting in less sunshine, both of which can exacerbate '''bed bug''' infestations and make extermination difficult. Best to check mattress crevices/seams for bugs/carcasses or feces (which present as black dots). Mosquito repellents such as DEET can repel bed bugs to an extent, but do not kill them upon contact, like [[Permethrin]].) By the way, a '''dar''' is similar, but often has a closed roof. '''''Gîtes d'étape''''' are simple country inns and hostel style places, where mountain trekkers can grab a hot shower, a good meal, and have a roof over their head for one night. Because coastal towns and villages are the destinations of choice for Moroccans to escape the heat from July to early September and because most Moroccans prefer '''furnished apartments''' over hotels, those towns are swamped with apartments. In the summer months and at peak season for Europeans (Easter, Autumn Holidays and from Christmas until mid-February) people will wait at the roadside at the village entrance, waving with keys. In low season you'll have to ask around (any random person on the street will do). Prices range from 75-200 dirham in low season but can be a multiple in high season. If you want to spend more than just a few days, shop around: Within villages the prices don't vary much for comparable places, but quality of furniture, kitchen equipment, internet connection and TV do a lot. Desert '''bivouacs''' are traditional nomad carpeted wool tents with a mattress, sheets and blankets. You can shower at the auberge where you will also have breakfast. Many hotels, especially those in the ''medina'' have delightful roof terraces, both in cities and the countryside, where you can sleep if the weather's too hot. This will normally cost you 20-25 dirham and you're provided with mattresses and a warm blanket. Just ask the receptionist in the hotel/auberge/gite. If you want to ask in French, which works fairly well, you can say ''ca sera possible de dormir sur la terrace, s'il vous plait?'' Often you can bargain on the price and if it's more than 30 dirham you should bargain. For those looking to '''camp''', almost every town and city has a campground, although these can often be some way out of the centre. Many of these grounds have water, electricity and cafes. In rural areas and villages, locals are usually more than happy to let you camp on their property; just make sure you ask first. Wild camping is illegal and the fines are steep; though a friendly request to the local police chief will usually get you the permission. ==Learn== Most foreigners looking to study in Morocco are seeking either Arabic or French '''language courses'''. All major cities have language centres, and some will even arrange homestays with an Arabic-speaking family during your course. ==Work== Although Morocco has a highly diversified economy and encourages foreign participation in its economy, finding a job in Morocco can be difficult. With a very high rate of unemployment (12.9% as of May 2023), there is not enough work for people. Still, having a background an education different from that of most of the local workforce may give you an advantage. Much work is informal or seasonal, which is a problem for locals, but not necessarily for you. It will be very difficult to manage life in the country without knowing [[Arabic]], [[French]], or both, so try to acquire the necessary language skills if you wish to give working in Morocco a try. Further, networking matters greatly in Morocco and the importance of having connections in the country cannot be overstated. Try to find people who can help you out. As is the case throughout North Africa, the Middle East, and the Arab world, Moroccans take business relationships seriously and expect you to demonstrate sincere and genuine interest. ==Cope== [[File:Souk, Marrakech (2242326899).jpg|thumbnail|In medinas and souqs you may meet persistent touts and shopkeepers]] Some Moroccans that you meet on the streets have come up with dozens of ways to part you from your money. Keep your wits about you, but don't let your wariness stop you from accepting any offers of generous Moroccan hospitality. Put on a smile and greet everybody that greets you, but still be firm if you are not interested. This will leave you significantly better off than just ignoring them. ===Touts=== ''Faux guides'' and touts congregate around tourist areas and will offer to show you around the ''medinas'', help you find accommodation, take you to a handicraft warehouse, or even score some drugs. While these men can often be harmless, never accept drugs or other products from them. Be polite, but make it clear if you're not interested in their services, and if they get too persistent, head for a taxi, ''salon de thé'', or into the nearest shop - the shopkeeper will show the faux guide away. Though, if it's a shop frequented by tourists, the shopkeeper may be equally eager to get you to buy something. The best way to avoid Faux guides and touts is to avoid eye contact and ignore them, this will generally discourage them as they will try ''to invest'' their time in bothering another more willing tourist. Another way is to walk quickly; if eye contact happens just give them a smile, preferably a ''strong'' and ''beaming'' one rather than a ''shy'' one meaning ''no! thanks''. Responding to everything with a polite but firm ''la shokran'' (Arabic for "no, thank you") can be particularly effective, since it doesn't reveal your native language and is understood by bystanders whose attention the tout usually does not want; they might even tell him to leave you alone. Simply ''la'' would be considered rude in this context, but can be warranted as well. Pretending you only speak some exotic language and don't understand whatever they say can be an option, too. If you engage in arguing or a conversation with them, you will have a hell of time getting rid of them, as they are incredibly persistent and are masters in harassment, nothing really embarrasses them as they consider this being their way of earning their living. Some of the more common tactics to be aware of are as follows. *Many ''Faux guides'' will pretend they are students when they approach you and that they just want to practice their English and learn about your culture, invariably if you follow them, there is a big chance you will end up in a carpet or souvenirs shop. A variant is they will show you an English letter and will ask you to translate it for them, or will ask for your help to their English-speaking friend/cousin/relative etc. abroad. *In areas of the medina with much accommodation, many young touts will wait for tourists to show them to you their hotel, just to get some dirham. They will claim GPS is not working in the medina and routes are closed. Do not believe them, never tell them the name of your place, ignore them or try to walk them out. Often your accommodation is right where you expect it just a few meters apart from where you are intercepted by the touts. *Expect to be told that anywhere and everywhere is 'close' or they shout "medina there" (even though you are right in the middle of it). Invariably, this is just a way to lull you into trusting them and a con to get you to follow them instead. Do not do this! *Do not accept 'free gifts' from vendors. You will find that a group of people will approach you accusing you of stealing it, and will extort the price from you. *Always insist that prices are fixed beforehand. This is especially true for taxi fares, where trips around a city should cost no more than 20 dirham, in general, or be done on the meter. This cannot be stressed enough. In ''all'' situations (including Henna tattoos) always agree on a price before! ===Bargaining and getting fooled=== * When [[bargaining]], never name a price that you are not willing to pay. * At bus/train stations, people will tell you that there have been cancellations, and that you won't be able to get a bus/train. Again, this is almost always a con to get you to accept a hyped-up taxi fare. * In general, do not accept the services of people who approach you. * Never be afraid to say no. Do just not fall or give in to any tout behaviour, even if it is just a few euros. This makes it harder for future tourists, and it basically identifies you as being stupid, not knowing local customs and behaviour. ===Drugs=== Another favourite of scam artists. In cities around the Rif Mountains, especially [[Tetouan]] and [[Chefchaouen]], you will almost certainly be offered ''kif'' (dope). Some dealers will sell you the dope, then turn you in to the police for a cut of the ''baksheesh'' you pay to bribe your way out, while others will get you stoned before selling you lawn clippings in plasticine. ===Ticket inspectors=== On trains inspectors have reportedly attempted to extricate a few extra dirham from unsuspecting tourists by finding something 'wrong' with their tickets. Make sure your tickets are in order before you board, and if you find yourself being hassled, insist on taking the matter up with the station manager at your destination. ===Toilets=== Moroccan toilets, even those in hotels or restaurants, might lack '''toilet paper'''. It is worth buying a roll (French: "'''papier hygienique'''"). ===Talk=== Try to learn at least a phrasebook level of competency in French or Arabic (Spanish may help you in the North - but not largely). Just being able to say ''"Ith'hab!" or "Seer f'halek"'' ("Go Away!") may be useful to you... Many locals (especially the nice ones who are not trying to take advantage of you) will speak limited English. Making a real effort to speak Arabic or Moroccan Arabic means a great deal to many Moroccans, including the majority who are multilingual, and puts you at an advantage as regards scams and bargaining. If you can at least verify prices in French with locals, you could end up saving a lot of money. ===What to wear=== You won't need high and heavy mountain boots unless you go in the coldest time of the year like February: it's quite warm in the country even when it's heavily raining in November. For trekking in valleys, low trekking shoes will likely be enough. Even in medinas, streets are paved if not asphalted—just be sure your footwear is not toeless in the medina, as garbage services are limited and fish scraps from the markets and the like tend to end up on the street. However, many Moroccan homes, most cheaper hotels, and nearly all buses have no heating, and winter nights drop to zero; you may need more layers than you will expect. For a desert trip to dunes, ensure your pockets can be easily shaken out as sand gets in there very quickly. Laundry services are exceptionally few and far between, although some hotels will provide them for a price and dry cleaners are plentiful. A few laundromats or similar do exist in newer sections of some cities, but are hard to find. It won't save you money to buy new clothes instead of washing your old ones, but it's a close thing. ===Time=== Morocco operates Daylight Saving Time except for during Ramadan. The further south you go, the more people refuse to use daylight saving time (also called "political time" in contrast to "wild time"); state-run places there will always obey DST, merchants not necessarily. ==Stay safe== [[File:Camel guard at Mausoleum Mohammad V.JPG|thumbnail|upright|"Camel guard" on horse at Mausoleum Mohammad V, Rabat]] Overall, Morocco remains a relatively safe place. Like any country, Morocco has its share of problems. Many can be easily avoided by following common sense. Avoid dark alleys. Travel in a group whenever possible. Keep money and passports in a safety wallet or in a hotel safety deposit box. Keep backpacks and purses with you at all times. Make sure there is nothing important in outside or back pockets. Drug laws are incredibly harsh in Morocco, as are the laws against prostitution and the importation, distribution and production of pornography. === Religious matters === Although the Moroccan constitution allows for freedom of religion, the clause on religious freedom is loosely defined and widely open to interpretation. It is unwise to speak badly of [[Islam]], hand out non-Islamic religious literature, or encourage Moroccans to participate in religious debates. Such actions will attract unwanted attention from the authorities and people, including expatriates, have been arrested for engaging in such activities. Attempting to preach or proselytise is also unwise, and you can expect to be heavily punished by the Moroccan authorities for doing so. There's nothing wrong with bringing bibles and other religious texts into the country so long as you use them for personal use. === Women travellers === Women especially will experience constant harassment if alone, but this is usually just cat-calls and (disturbingly) hisses. Dark sunglasses make it easier to avoid eye contact. If someone won't leave you alone, don't feel the need to be polite, look for families, a busy shop, or a local woman and don't be afraid to ask for help. If you are so inclined, you could wear a ''hijab'' (headscarf), but this is not necessary. Morocco can be a liberal country and many Moroccan women do not wear headscarves. However, women should ''always'' dress conservatively (no low-cut tops, midriffs, or shorts), out of respect for the local culture. In cities, women can wear more revealing clothing, but as a general rule they should follow the lead from local women. Locals will also assume that Moroccan women venturing into ''ville nouvelle'' nightclubs or bars alone are prostitutes in search of clientèle. Foreign women entering such places will not be so considered but will be thought of as approachable. === Major annoyances === Be careful about being drugged, especially as a solo traveller. The common and easy-to-make drug GHB only lasts 3 hours and is undetectable in the body after 7 hours, so take action immediately if you are attacked. Hustlers can be a big problem for people travelling to Morocco, and Tangier in particular. It's often difficult to walk down the street without being accosted by somebody offering to give you directions or sell you something. Your best bet is to politely refuse their services and keep walking, as all they are after is money. There are some legitimate tour guides, but your guide will receive a commission on anything you buy while you're with them, so don't let yourself be pressured into purchasing anything you don't want. In certain places, hustlers will do their best to intimidate you, and they can be very clingy, insisting that you give them money or offering their 'services'. Don't be intimidated by this; usually a firm "No" does the trick. Some of them can get nasty and abusive but before it gets to that stage walk towards a shop or crowd. Most Moroccans would immediately tell the person off if they see that you are being harassed. === Dangerous areas === Armed fighting in the disputed areas of the Western Sahara is less frequent now, but clashes between government forces and the Polisario Front still occur. Don't wander too far off the beaten path either, as this region is also '''heavily-mined'''. Don't get too close to the Mauritanian border due to terrorism, kidnapping, and murder. === Dual nationals === Dual citizenship is recognised by Morocco. If you are regarded as Moroccan by the authorities, such as by being a dual citizen or having a Moroccan father, you will be treated as a Moroccan citizen. In the unlikely event you get arrested, run into any kind of legal trouble, or get detained, your embassy will have little influence in assisting you. === Natural disasters === {{see also|Earthquakes}} The country is located near the boundary between the African Plate and the Eurasian Plate, which is a seismically active zone. However, most earthquakes in Morocco are small and cause little damage. The last major earthquake – thought to be the deadliest since the 1960 Agadir earthquake – occurred in September 2023, culminating in thousands of deaths and injuries. Morocco's building standards are poor; many buildings are poorly constructed and are not able to withstand the full force of a major earthquake. === LGBT travellers === Morocco is ''not a safe'' destination for [[LGBT travel|gay and lesbian travellers]]; Morocco's cultural and legal systems view homosexuality as immoral and anti-LGBT sentiments are common among the population. Same-sex sexual activity is punishable by 6 months to 3 years imprisonment and a fine of up to 1000 dirhams. In 2014, a gay British traveller was prosecuted and imprisoned for four months after police found incriminating photographs on his phone. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Spice Market, Marakech (2242330035).jpg|thumbnail|Spices for sale]] ===General concerns=== *'''Inoculations''': No particular inoculations are needed for Morocco under normal circumstances, but check with the [http://www.cdc.gov/travel/ US's Centre for Disease Control (CDC) travel web pages] for any recent disease outbreaks. As with most travel, it makes good sense to have a recent tetanus immunization. Consider Hepatitis A and B inoculations. *'''Food and drink''': Avoid uncooked fruits and vegetables that you can not peel. Avoid any food that is not prepared when you order it (e.g. buffets). Usually fried and boiled foods are safe. Some travellers have also had problems with unrefrigerated condiments (such as mayonnaise) used in fast food outlets. *'''Water''': It is advisable to drink bottled water (check that the cap is sealed - some people might try to sell you tap water in recycled bottles). Be wary of ice or cordials that may be made with tap water. Some hotels provide free bottled water to guests and its wise to keep a supply in your room so as not to be tempted with tap water. *'''Shoes''': Keep your sandals for the beach. Moroccan streets double as garbage disposal areas and you may not want to wade through fish heads and chicken parts with open-toe shoes. *'''[[Malaria]]''': Present in the northern, coastal areas of the country but not a major problem. Take the usual precautions against being bitten (light coloured clothing, insect repellent, etc.) and if you are really worried see your doctor about anti-malarial medication before your departure. ===Medical help=== Morocco has a public and private health care system. Most of the private sector health services are located in Casablanca, Rabat and other larger cities. Outside the major cities, health services are limited. The level of healthcare is not at the same level as in Europe. There can be large differences between private and public hospitals. Medical treatment can be obtained from self-employed doctors, clinics and hospitals. Most general practitioners, specialists, and dentists are self-employed; look for signs saying "Docteur". An average doctor's check-up in a city costs 150-300 dirham. In general, the quality of their work is decent, but you can try to ask some locals for advice and recommendations. Specialist health care services are not always available. Dental care is of a reasonable standard and prices are in line with those in western countries. Staff in private and public hospitals are highly educated, but English is poorly spoken or not spoken at all. Doctors and nursing staff often speak French. In private clinics, language skills are more common. In public hospitals, emergency care is free of charge, but in practice foreigners are always required to pay for treatment, for example for overnight stays. Moroccan private hospitals offer a higher standard of care than the public sector and, if possible, it is advisable to go directly to a private clinic. If your condition in Morocco requires more complex treatment, it is advisable to seek the opinion of two different doctors. Payments for medical and hospital services are required from foreigners in cash. The possibility of payment by credit card is rare. Ambulance services may have to be paid in advance. Travellers to Morocco are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance. Hotels in major tourist areas may have their own clinic or doctor. They also provide treatment outside office hours. There are also doctors in Morocco who make home visits. If you are in northern Morocco near the Spanish regions of Ceuta or Melilla on the African continent, you can move to the Spanish side, where you can get treatment with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Morocco has a very large number of pharmacies in both urban and rural areas. You can usually find the contact details of the pharmacy on duty on the doors of pharmacies or by using internet search services. Pharmacies are denoted by a green cross, usually in neon. They sell medicines, contraceptives, and often beauty and related products. For minor problems, they double as a medical advisor. Be prepared to describe your problem even when you know exactly what you need. Most common prescription and over-the-counter medicines are readily available, but specialised medicines can be difficult to obtain. Sometimes pharmacies can order the medicine you need with short delivery times. Pharmacies can also provide information about medical services in your area. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} As in all of North Africa, the dominant religion is Islam, therefore, appropriate religious prohibitions and attitudes should be in order. If visiting a mosque, for example, be sure to be dressed conservatively and remove your shoes before entering it. === Social etiquette === * '''Moroccans are indirect communicators'''. They are tempered by the need to save face and protect and honour and they will avoid saying anything that could be construed as judgemental or negative. One's point is expressed in a roundabout way. * '''Do not beckon a Moroccan person directly''', even if they've done something wrong in your opinion. It is considered impolite. Under Moroccan law, you can be taken to court for this. * '''Kissing cheeks''' is practiced between members of the same gender, close friends, and family. You should not do this to someone of the opposite gender unless you're close to them. If in doubt, a '''handshake''' is the way to go. One way to demonstrate respect and sincerity: Touch your heart with your right hand after shaking someone's hand. * When greeting someone you don't know, '''always say "Salaam Alaykum"''' ("peace upon you"), which is the standard, formal greeting. In informal settings, people often greet each other with "Salaam". * '''The left hand is considered unhygienic'''. Try not to shake hands or accept something from someone with your left hand as it is considered impolite. * '''Moroccans respect their elders'''. If you come across someone who is older than you, give up your seat on public transportation for them. If you're waiting for a taxi, allow someone older to take your spot. You are expected to act politely around someone older than you, and it would be seen as rude manners if you attempt to challenge someone older than you. * Smoking kif or [[hashish]] is part of Moroccan culture and widely tolerated (though officially illegal). This said, it's frowned upon to smoke on crowded beaches or in cafes or restaurants without the owner's consent - it is OK, even expected, to ask for permission. * '''Dress smartly and conservatively in public'''. For men, it's advisable to wear long trousers and sleeved shirts, and women shouldn't wear see-through dresses. In hotels and beach clubs, there's no issue with donning swimsuits, bikinis, and shorts. * '''Public displays of affection aren't socially accepted'''. People can get arrested for doing this. === Things to avoid === Moroccans will understand that you are not fully aware of what's considered appropriate/inappropriate in their country, and they will usually be tolerant of your blunders. This said, there are some things which will be met with disapproval and you should avoid doing the following during your stay in the country. ====Politics==== * Political discourse tends to be highly sensitive in Morocco and some have been arrested for speaking out against the government and state institutions. Keep your political views to yourself. * The Moroccan royal family is protected by strict lèse–majesté laws and the constitution states that the reigning monarch is "inviolable". In other words, insulting, making fun of them, questioning their rule (this also includes advocating for republicanism), or speaking out against them is punishable by up to '''five years of imprisonment'''. * It is a social faux pas to discuss the royal family's economic power and involvement in the business world. * Avoid talking about [[Western Sahara]] and Sahrawi nationalism. Doing so could get you into trouble with the authorities. * Avoid talking about [[Algeria]]. Since the 1960s, the two countries have had strained relations and some Moroccans, particularly the older generations, harbor strong feelings towards Algeria and Algerian people. In 1975, Algeria expelled thousands of Moroccans from Algeria, separating many Moroccans from their family members. ====Symbols==== * According to the Moroccan penal code, it is '''illegal''' to show contempt – satirising, desecrating, and so on – for the symbols (the flag, the coat of arms, the national motto) of Morocco. ====Religion==== * [[Islam]] is the dominant religion in Morocco, and Islam plays an essential role in the lives of every Moroccan. During [[Ramadan]], you should refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing in public. Not doing so would be seen as highly disrespectful. The Jewish and Christian minorities are generally free to practise their religions. It is illegal to attempt to convert someone to any religion other than Islam. * Refrain from criticising or speaking badly about religion, and refrain from talking about religion from an agnostic point of view. Even highly educated Moroccans won't appreciate it. ==Connect== ===Telephone=== '''Public telephones''' can be found in city centres, but private '''telephone offices''' (also known as ''teleboutiques'' or ''telekiosques'') are also commonly used. The international dialling prefix (to dial ''out'' of the country) is 00. All normal numbers are ten digits long, counting the initial ''0'' (area code prefix) and the whole number must be dialled even for local calls within the same area code. ====Useful numbers==== :Police: '''19'''. Moroccan Royal Gendarmerie: '''17''' :Fire Service: '''15''' :Highway Emergency Service: '''177''' :Domestic directory: 160 :International directory: 120 :Telegrams and telephone: 140 :Intercity operator: 100 ====Mobile==== The mobile telephone network in Morocco can be accessed via one of the major operators: [http://www.orange.ma Orange], [http://www.inwi.ma Inwi] or [https://www.iam.ma/ Maroc Telecom] (IAM - ''Ittisalat Al Maghrib'', owned by Etisalat). Network coverage is generally good in populated areas and mostly also in the countryside. According to OpenSignal, all three providers are similarly good. Maroc Telecom has the best coverage in rural areas (including most parts of [[Western Sahara]]). The network of Maroc Telecom has also the best consistent quality. (updated September 2022) The three operators also each operate lower-budget virtual carriers: [https://win.ma/en win] (using Inwi's network), [https://www.yoxo.ma/ Yoxo] (using Orange's network), and [https://www.injoy.ma inJoy] (using IAM's network) (updated June 2025) More information on available services, coverage and roaming partners are available at: [http://www.gsmworld.com/roaming/gsminfo/cou_ma.shtml GSMWorld]. Beware that roaming with international cards from most countries is very expensive, so think about buying a local card. ====SIM cards==== SIM cards can be purchased, though some vendors require an ID; the card itself is free, the fee paid is credited to the account. The fee credited to the account is sufficient to make a few brief phone calls. They can be purchased in various shops that sport the official logo but not in all (rule of thumb: not in a kiosk, but any electronics shop works and of course the official stores of the companies). Some places that sell houseware goods may sell SIM, just ask the cashier. Arabic and French both use "SIM", repeating the word will either get you the SIM or directions to the next shop where you can get one. eSIM cards are available to purchase and activate entirely online for those phones which are compatible. As of May 2025, Maroc Telecom are offering an eSIM with unlimited 4G data over 14 days for 320.00 MAD. To activate the eSIM you need to complete set-up and then call '555'. Once activated, to finally get online, you need to text 'Internet' to 505, and your data will be connected within moments. The three virtual networks all also offer eSIMs: win by inwi in particular offers very good-value customisable plans and has a website fully available in English. (Yoko also has some competitive plans, but be warned of its more arduous cancellation policies than win.) '''Top-ups''' come in the form of scratch cards for 5 to 100 dirham which can be purchased anywhere, just look for the logo of the phone company. Many convenience stores that sell bottled water will also sell top-ups. The cards are used by sending the scratch code to some number which is explained on the scratch card itself: 555 for Maroc Telecom and Orange, 120 for INWI. When calling in to apply the top up to your account, keep in mind that the prompts will be in French or Arabic, so if you do not understand either, make arrangements for someone to assist you. Also keep in mind that when topping up, you will be given the option of applying the top up to data or to call time. '''Data plans''' are available for as little as 5 dirham per 500 MB. But 17 GB and 2 hr call, or 15 GB and 5 hr call can be had for as little as 100 dirham. While you can buy SIM cards at some Moroccan international airports from stalls operated by the major operators, the price is considerably higher than elsewhere, for instance in December 2024, the lowest price plan at Marrakech airport was 20 Euros (about 200 dirhams) for 20 GB and 5 hours talk talk. In contrast, a 30 dirham SIM card and a 50 dirham top up card, were sufficient in December 2024 to provide 7.5 GB of data and a brief amount of call time. ===Post=== [[File:L169 - Boîte aux lettres - Maroc.JPG|thumb|Moroccan letterbox]] The Moroccan postal service is generally reliable and offers a ''post restante'' service in major cities for a small fee. You will need some identification (preferably your passport) to collect your mail. Items shipped as '''freight''' are inspected at the post office before they are sent, so wait until this has been done before you seal the box. ===Email and internet=== Moroccans have really taken to the internet. '''Internet cafes''' are open late and are numerous in cities and smaller towns that see significant tourist traffic. Rates are 3-4 dirham per hour and they are often located next to, above, or below the ''telekiosque'' offices. Speeds are acceptable to excellent in the north, but can be a little on the slow side in rural areas. Most internet cafes will allow you to print and burn CDs for a small charge. Almost every restaurant and cafe offers wifi for free with usually acceptable speed. Moroccans have also really taken to 3G and 4G/LTE coverage. There is a good access to email and the internet via Mobile Phones and it is relatively inexpensive. There is 3G access even in the desert, as well as in all cities. You can easily use the mobile internet network by buying a prepaid card (see mobile section). For Maroc Telecom, data-only packages can be purchased by appending "*3" to the top-up code. As of 2017, fiber connections are rolled out throughout the country, with newly installed 4G-towers as backup. ==Go next== The land border can be crossed to Spain ([[Ceuta]] and [[Melilla]]) and to [[Mauretania]]. The border crossings to Algeria are generally closed. There are ferries to the [[Spain|Spanish mainland]]. {{isPartOf|North Africa}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|32|-6|zoom=6}} el8td9ck2wjjnuozd26di19nk5v3k6d 5091330 5091329 2025-07-11T10:36:19Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091330 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Aït Arbi (Maroc) banner Vallée des Gorges du Dadès.jpg|caption=The village of Aït Arbi in Saharan Morocco}} '''Morocco''' ([[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]]: المغرب, ''Al-Maghrib''; [[Berber phrasebook|Berber]]: ⵍⵎⴰⵖⵔⵉⴱ, ''Elmaɣrib''; [[French phrasebook|French]]: ''Maroc'') is the northwesternmost country in [[Africa]]. Morocco has, for most people, been the gateway to [[Africa]]. With plenty of attractive locations, historical sights, and unique cultural traditions, there's lots to see and do in this beautiful, mesmerising country. At just a few hours from the main European cities, Morocco has everything to overwhelm you with the amazing colours, smells and sounds of Islamic Africa. Imagine bustling souqs and spice markets, stunning mosques, white-washed sea side towns and medieval city centres. With panoramic views varying from snow-covered peaks in the High Atlas to the endless sand dunes of the Sahara, no-one ever has to be bored in this beautiful country. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Map of Morocco.png | regionmaptext=Map of Morocco | regionmapsize=350px | region1name=[[Mediterranean Morocco]] | region1color=#d5b66b | region1items= | region1description= Home to several [[Spain|Spanish]] enclaves and serves as the country's main access point to the sea. | region2name=[[North Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|North Atlantic Coast]] | region2color=#d5dc76 | region2items= | region2description= Home of the [[Rabat|capital]] and [[Casablanca]]. The first entry point for the traveller. | region3name=[[South Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|South Atlantic Coast]] | region3color=#4da9c4 | region3items= | region3description=Home to gorgeous beach towns like [[Essaouira]] and [[Agadir]]. | region4name=[[High Atlas]] | region4color=#b383b3 | region4items= | region4description= Home to major cities like [[Marrakech]] and much of the ethnic Berber population. | region5name=[[Middle Atlas]] | region5color=#71b37b | region5items= | region5description=covering the Middle Atlas mountains and the surrounding areas including Fez and Meknes | region6name=[[Saharan Morocco]] | region6color=#d56d76 | region6items= | region6description= The vast desert region of Morocco and the country's least populated region. Offers the traveller a chance to explore a slice of the vast Saharan desert. | region7name=[[Anti Atlas]] | region7color=#a78379 | region7items= | region7description= Home of [[Taroudant]] and offers the traveller another chance to explore another slice of the vast Saharan desert. }} * '''[[Spanish North Africa]]''' includes [[Ceuta]], [[Melilla]] and a few other small territories at the Mediterranean sea, which are part of [[Spain]]. {{disclaimerbox|As travel conditions in the '''[[Western Sahara]]''' are remarkably different from a traveller's point of view, it is treated as its own entity. This '''should not''' be interpreted as a political endorsement of claims by any side in the sovereignty dispute.}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5b66b|title=[[Mediterranean Morocco]]|wikidata=Q14207241}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d5dc76|title=[[North Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|North Atlantic Coast]]|wikidata=Q14204012}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#4da9c4|title=[[South Atlantic Coast (Morocco)|South Atlantic Coast]]|wikidata=Q14204036}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b383b3|title=[[High Atlas]]|wikidata=Q584279}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Middle Atlas]]|wikidata=Q1433137}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d56d76|title=[[Saharan Morocco]]|wikidata=Q14207244}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a78379|title=[[Anti Atlas]]|wikidata=Q574853}} ==Cities== {{Mapframe|31.368|-5.587|zoom=6|height=600|width=|layer=M|staticmap=|align=}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rabat]]|url=|lat=34.020882|long=-6.84165|wikidata=Q3551}} (Arabic: '''الرِّبَاط''', Berber: ⵕⵕⴱⴰⵟ) – the capital of Morocco; very relaxed and hassle-free, highlights include a 12th-century tower and minaret. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Agadir]]|url=|lat=30.433333|long=-9.6|wikidata=Q170525}} (Arabic: '''اكادير''', Berber: ⴰⴳⴰⴷⵉⵔ) – the town is a nice example of modern Morocco, best known for its beaches, with less emphasis on history and culture. Take the local bus for a few cents and go 2 or 3 villages north, where there are additional beaches. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Casablanca]]|url=|lat=33.533333|long=-7.583333|wikidata=Q7903}} (Arabic: '''الدار البيضاء''', Berber: ⴰⵏⴼⴰ) – this modern city by the sea is a starting point for visitors flying into the country. If you have the time, both the historical medina and the contemporary mosque (the third largest in the world) are well worth an afternoon. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Fez]]|url=|lat=34.033333|long=-5|wikidata=Q80985}} (Arabic: '''فاس‎‎''', Berber: ⴼⴰⵙ) – the former capital of Morocco and home to the oldest university in the world, the Qarawiyyin University, in its well preserved old city. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Marrakech]]|url=|lat=31.63|long=-8.008889|wikidata=Q101625}} (Arabic: '''مراكش'''‎‎, Berber: ⴰⵎⵓⵔⴰⴽⵓⵛ) – a perfect combination of old and new Morocco. Plan to spend at least a few days wandering the huge maze of souks and ruins in the medina. The great plaza of Djeema El Fna at dusk is not to be missed. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Meknes]]|url=|lat=33.895|long=-5.554722|wikidata=Q178663}} (Arabic: '''مكناس''', Berber: ⴰⵎⴽⵏⴰⵙ) – a modern, laid-back city that offers a welcome break from the tourist crush of neighbouring [[Fez]]. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ouarzazate]]|url=|lat=30.916667|long=-6.916667|wikidata=Q505208}} (Arabic: '''ورزازات'''‎‎, Berber: ⵡⴰⵔⵣⴰⵣⴰⵜ) – considered the capital of the South, Ouarzazate is a great example of preservation and tourism that hasn't destroyed the feel of a fantastic and ancient city. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tangier]]|url=|lat=35.766667|long=-5.8|wikidata=Q126148}} (Arabic: '''طنجة'''‎‎, Berber: ⵜⵉⵏⴳⵉ) – the starting point for most visitors arriving by ferry from Spain. An enigmatic charm which has attracted numerous artists (Henri Matisse), musicians (Jimi Hendrix), politicians (Winston Churchill), writers (William S. Burroughs, Mark Twain) and others (Malcolm Forbes). *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Tetouan]]|url=|lat=35.566667|long=-5.366667|wikidata=Q185157}} (Arabic: '''تطوان''', Berber: ⵜⵉⵟⵟⴰⵡⵉⵏ) – nice beaches and is the gateway to the Rif Mountains. ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[High Atlas]]|url=|lat=31.433333|long=-6.933333|wikidata=Q584279}} (Arabic: '''الاطلس الكبير''', Berber: ⴰⴷⵔⴰⵔ ⵏ ⴷⵔⵏ) – regular destination for mountain hikers, ski enthusiasts, or travellers interested in the indigenous Berber culture *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Merzouga]]|url=|lat=31.099167|long=-4.011667|wikidata=Q1922278}} (Arabic: '''مرزوقة''', Berber: ⵎⴰⵔⵣⵓⴳⴰ) and {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[M'Hamid]]|url=|lat=29.822222|long=-5.720833|wikidata=Q1014625}} (Arabic: '''محاميد الغزلان''', Berber: ⵜⴰⵔⴰⴳⴰⵍⵜ) – from either of these two settlements at the edge of the Sahara, ride a camel or 4x4 into the desert for a night (or a week) among the dunes and under the stars *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Tinerhir]]|url=|lat=31.514722|long=-5.532778|wikidata=Q335141}} (Arabic: '''تنغير''', Berber: ⵜⵉⵏⵖⵉⵔ) – desert oasis and access point to the stunning High Atlas *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Volubilis]]|url=|lat=34.071111|long=-5.553611|wikidata=Q391215}} (Arabic: '''وليلي''', Berber: ⵡⴰⵍⵉⵍⵉ) – the biggest Roman ruins in Morocco, 30 km north of [[Meknes]], next to the holy town of [[Moulay Idriss]] ==Understand== [[File:Morocco close location (orthographic).svg|thumb]] === Politics and government === The only constitutional monarchy in [[North Africa]], the '''Kingdom of Morocco''' is made up of 12 regions. It has one of the largest economies in Africa, and is an important player in Arab affairs, . ==== Name transcriptions ==== * [[Arabic]]: '''المملكة المغربية''', ''al-mamlaka al-maḡribiyya'' * [[Berber phrasebook|Berber]]: '''ⵜⴰⴳⵍⴷⵉⵜ ⵏ ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ''', ''Tageldit n lmeɣrib'' * [[French]]: '''Royaume du Maroc''' ===History=== {{see also|Islamic Golden Age}} The earliest known independent state of Morocco was the '''Berber Kingdom of Mauretania''' under King Baga. This kingdom dates back at least to 300 BCE. From the 1st century BCE, Morocco was part of the [[Roman Empire]] as '''Mauretania Tingitana'''. Christianity was introduced in the 2nd century CE and gained converts in the Roman towns, among slaves and Berber farmers. In the 5th century CE, as the Roman Empire declined, the region was invaded from the north by the Vandals and later the Visigoths. In the 6th century, northern Morocco became part of the Byzantine Empire. Throughout this time, however, the Berber inhabitants in the high mountains of the interior remained independent. In 670 CE, the first Islamic conquest of the North African coastal plain took place under Uqba ibn Nafi, a general serving under the Umayyads. The indigenous Berber tribes adopted [[Islam]], but retained their customary laws. They also paid taxes and tribute to the new Muslim administration. The first independent Muslim state in the area of modern Morocco was the Kingdom of Nekor, an emirate in the Rif Mountains. It was founded by Salih I ibn Mansur in 710, as a client state. After the outbreak of the Berber Revolt in 739, the Berbers formed other independent states such as the '''Miknasa''' of Sijilmasa and the '''Barghawata'''. According to medieval legend, Idris Ibn Abdallah fled to Morocco after the Abbasids' massacre of the tribes in Iraq. He convinced the Awraba tribes to break the allegiance to distant Abbasid caliphs in Baghdad and he founded the '''Idrisid Dynasty''' in 788. The Idrisids established Fez as their capital and Morocco became a centre of Muslim learning and major regional power. The Idrisids were ousted in 927 by the Fatimid Caliphate and their Miknasa allies. After Miknasa broke off relations with the Fatimids in 932, they were removed from power by the Maghrawa of Sijilmasa in 980. From the 11th century to the early 20th century onwards, a series of dynasties including the '''Almoravids''', '''Almohads''', '''Marinids''', '''Wattasids''', '''Saadis''' and '''Alaouites''' ruled Morocco until it was controlled by the Spanish and French. During World War II, Morocco became an Axis puppet under Vichy France in 1940, and became a refuge for affluent Europeans, famous through the film ''Casablanca''. Morocco was liberated in 1942 by American troops in Operation Torch (see [[World War II in Africa]]) and hosted the 1943 Casablanca conference. Morocco's long struggle for independence from France ended in 1956. The internationalized city of Tangier was turned over to the new country that same year. Morocco annexed [[Western Sahara]] during the late 1970s, and even though the status of the territory remains unresolved, all maps in Morocco show Western Sahara as an integrated part of Morocco. Gradual political reforms in the 1990s resulted in the establishment of a bicameral legislature in 1997, although the king still possesses the actual political power. The press is mostly state controlled even though there are free newspapers, and clampdowns have occurred following criticism of the authorities or articles concerning the Western Sahara situation. ===Culture=== Morocco has 34 million inhabitants. It's a good place to see varied cultural heritages including those with African, Arabic, Berber, Moorish and Western influences. Islam is by far the dominant religion, with 99% of the population being at least nominally Muslim. Christianity is the second largest religion, but most Christians in Morocco are expatriates from Western countries. Morocco used to have a large Jewish community, most of whom were Sephardic Jews whose ancestors fled the Spanish and Portuguese inquisitions, though the vast majority of them fled to Israel in the second half of the 20th century, and only a small community remains in Morocco today. Nevertheless, Morocco's Jewish community is the largest remaining one in an Arab country. ===Electricity and voltage=== {{see also|Electrical systems}} The voltage in Morocco is generally '''220 V''' (partly 127 V) 50 Hz, and outlets will fit the two-pin plug known as the ''Europlug'', probably the most commonly used international plug and included in most international plug adapter kits. It is ungrounded and designed for at most 2.5 A. American and Canadian appliances, which are built to use 110 V, may be damaged if they're plugged into a 220 V unless your appliance is "dual-voltage" (designed for both 110 and 220 V). If not, you'll need a '''transformer''' or '''converter''' (depending on the device) as well as an adapter. ===Holidays=== The biggest event on the Moroccan calendar is the month of [[Ramadan]], during which Muslims fast during the day time and break the fast at sunset. Most restaurants are closed for lunch (with the exception of those catering specifically to tourists), and things generally slow down. Travelling during this time is entirely possible, and the restrictions don't apply to non-Muslims, but it's respectful to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during the fast. At the end of the month is the holiday of '''Eid al-Fitr''', when practically everything closes for as long as a week and transport is packed as everybody heads back home. Alcohol consumption is not prohibited for tourists during Ramadan; there are a few restaurants and bars serving alcohol. Also, alcohol can be purchased in a supermarket, but only if a tourist shows their passport to the staff, as Moroccans are not allowed to buy or consume alcohol during the holy month. ===Visitor information === * [https://www.visitmorocco.com/ Visit Morocco] If you are adventurous at heart, a good time to visit Morocco for trekking in the desert is February. You can enjoy coastal areas or beaches at Essaouira in July. April is the best time to visit the imperial towns in Morocco. The peak tourist season in Morocco is July and August. {{clear|right}} ==Talk== [[File:Amz-plake province Tiznite.JPG|thumbnail|Road sign in Arabic, Berber and French]] {{See also|Moroccan Arabic phrasebook|Arabic phrasebook|Tashelhit phrasebook|French phrasebook}} {{infobox|Some common phrases in Moroccan Arabic:|* Salam: Hello * B'Saha: Good health to you (commonly used expression in Morocco) * Shukran: Thank you * Tanmirt: Thank you (in Tamazight) * Insha Allah: God willing }} The official languages of Morocco are '''[[Arabic phrasebook|Arabic]] and [[Berber phrasebook|Berber]]'''. Many Moroccans are multilingual. As for European languages, younger people and people working in touristic areas are more likely to speak English, while older people and those in smaller towns might be more likely to speak some French. Mileage may vary though, of course, and knowing basics in both does help. If you are unsure, just ask which language someone prefers. '''[[Moroccan Arabic phrasebook|Moroccan Arabic]]''' (also known as '''Darija'''), the local vernacular, is spoken natively by about 91% of the population. The dialect is one of the toughest Arabic dialects to learn; native speakers of Arabic outside of Morocco often have trouble understanding the way Moroccans speak. Some consider the dialect a different language altogether. If you don't know the local dialect, do not despair: all Moroccans learn '''Modern Standard Arabic''' at school, so you should have no problems communicating in large cities. [[Tashelhit phrasebook|'''Tashelhit''']] and '''Central Morocco Tamazight''' are the most commonly spoken Berber languages. Tashelhit is mostly spoken in southwestern Morocco, whereas Central Morocco Tamazight is spoken in the Atlas Mountains region of central Morocco. '''[[French phrasebook|French]]''', although it has no official status in the country, is a second language for a lot of Moroccans. The language is held in high regard; French is taught in Moroccan schools from a young age and the language is used in many avenues such as business, government, and commerce. French is often used to transliterate Arabic words. For example, the name Abdullah is transliterated as Abdellah. '''[[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]''' is spoken by some Moroccans living in [[Mediterranean Morocco]]. Moroccans born during and before the 1950s – parts of Morocco were under the administration of [[Spain]] back then – are more likely to be competent in Spanish than their juniors. '''English''' is increasingly becoming popular in Morocco and the Moroccan government is keen on promoting the language. This being said, English is not widely spoken in Morocco and not everyone is happy with the government's decision to espouse English. Tourist destinations that have become popular with Northern European visitors, like [[Taghazout]] or [[Marrakech]], are where you will likely find the most English-speaking Moroccans. ==Get in== [[File:Visa policy of Morocco.svg|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Morocco, with countries in green having visa-free access]] ===Entry requirements=== Morocco's visa policy is relatively liberal compared to other African countries; the country has numerous visa-free arrangements. Nationals of the following countries can enter Morocco visa-free: [[Europe#Get in|Schengen member states]], [[Algeria]], [[Argentina]], [[Australia]], [[Bahrain]], [[Brazil]], [[Bulgaria]], [[Canada]], [[Chile]], [[China]], [[Côte d'Ivoire]], [[Croatia]], [[Republic of Congo]], [[Guinea]], [[Hong Kong]], [[Indonesia]], [[Ireland]], [[Japan]], [[Kuwait]], [[Libya]], [[Macau]], [[Malaysia]], [[Mali]], [[Mexico]], [[New Zealand]], [[Niger]], [[Oman]], [[Peru]], [[Philippines]], [[Qatar]], [[Russia]], [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Senegal]], [[Singapore]], [[South Korea]], [[Tunisia]], [[Turkey]], [[United Arab Emirates]], [[United Kingdom]], [[United States of America|United States]]. The Moroccan Embassy is usually the first port of call for tourists from countries needing a visa to enter Morocco. They charge the equivalent of UK £17 for a single entry and £26 for double or multiple entries. (Double or Multiple entries will be issued at the embassy's discretion). Visas are usually valid for three months and take around 5-6 working days to process. Visa requirements are completed application forms; four passport-size photos taken within the previous six months; a valid passport with at least one blank page and with a photocopy of the relevant data pages; Fee, payable by postal order only; a photocopy of all flight bookings and a photocopy of hotel reservation. Tourists can stay for up to 90 days, and visa extensions can be frustrating and time-consuming. (You may find it easier to duck into the Spanish-controlled [[Ceuta]] or [[Melilla]] and then re-enter Morocco for a new stamp). Anti-cholera '''vaccination certificates''' may be required of visitors coming from areas where this disease is prevalent and pets need a health certificate less than ten days old, and an anti-rabies certificate less than six months old. ===By plane=== [[File:ROYAL AIR MAROC BOEING 737-800 AND ATR72 AT MARRAKECH MENARA AIRPORT MOROCCO APRIL 2013 (8696076081).jpg|thumb|300px|Planes of the flag carrier Royal Air Maroc at [[Marrakech]] airport]] Major airlines that serve Morocco would most likely be landing at [[Casablanca]]. In addition to destinations across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, one can also fly intercontinental from [[New York City|New York]], [[Washington, D.C.]], [[Miami]], [[Montreal]], [[Rio de Janeiro]] and [[Sao Paulo]]. Other popular entry points include [[Marrakesh]], [[Agadir]], [[Fes]], [[Rabat]], and [[Tangier]], to which many European low-cost carriers fly either year-round or seasonally. '''[http://www.easyjet.com Easyjet]''' &mdash; Now fly at budget prices from [[London]] and [[Manchester]] to [[Marrakech]] and [[Casablanca]]. Another option is from [[CDG|Paris - Charles de Gaulle]] to [[Casablanca]]. '''[http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair]''' &mdash; flies to Morocco from [[Bergamo]], [[Girona]], [[Reus]], [[Madrid]], [[Brussels]], "Frankfurt"-[[Hahn]], Eindhoven, [[London]], [[Porto]]. Flying to [[Fez]] 3 times per week. Flights to Marrakesh are also available. '''[http://www.RoyalAirMaroc.com Royal Air Maroc]''' &mdash; The state airline, which drastically needs a price cut. '''Air Arabia Maroc''' owned by Air Arabia, is another low-cost carrier which flies to other Moroccan destinations, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Tunisia and Turkey. '''[http://www.bintercanarias.com Binter Canarias]''' &mdash; Flights from Canary Islands to Marrakesh. '''[http://www.emirates.com Emirates]''' &mdash; Flights from Dubai to Casablanca. Many visitors also fly to [[Gibraltar]] or [[Malaga]] (which are often considerably cheaper to get to) and take a ferry from [[Algeciras]], [[Tarifa]] or Gibraltar to [[Tangier]]. This is not recommended in summer as literally millions of Moroccans living in [[Europe]] use this passage during the summer holidays. ===By car=== You can enter via ferry or via the two only open border posts on land connected to the Spanish enclaves of [[Ceuta]] and [[Melilla]]. The frontier with Algeria has been closed since 1994. For the closest maritime connection you head for [[Algeciras]] or [[Tarifa]] in southern [[Spain]]. At Algeciras there are ferry services to Ceuta and [[Tangier]] that carry cars. Tarifa has a similar service to Tangier and this is the shortest and fastest route, just 35 minutes. It's possible also to enter by car from [[Mauritania]] via [[Dakhla]]. It might be hard to get into Morocco with a commercial vehicle. Camper vans are acceptable (but they must look like a camper van), but other commercial vehicles might get turned around and prevented from travelling onwards. If you want to take a commercial vehicle, and there is more than one person travelling, it may be worthwhile if a French-speaking person travels to any international border with Morocco of your choice and meets with the head of Customs before you bring in a commercial vehicle. ===By boat=== [[File:Intershipping Detroit Jet.JPG|thumbnail|Boarding a Tarifa - Tangier ferry]] There are several ferry connections to Morocco, mainly from [[Spain]]. The most popular one is from [[Algeciras]] to [[Tangier]], €37, approx 1 hr trip, another one is from the small port of [[Tarifa]], on the southernmost tip of mainland Spain. A free shuttle bus between Tarifa and Algeciras (25 min) is provided for all ferry passengers, so you will have no problems getting to the Algeciras train station. Other Spanish ports with connections to Morocco are [[Malaga]] and [[Almeria]] with departures to [[Melilla]] and the adjacent Moroccan town of [[Nador]]. Ferries from [[Marseille]] and the port of [[Sète]] near [[Montpellier]] in [[France]] also go to Tangier. However, they are rather expensive. The Italian towns of [[Genoa]] and [[Naples]] also have direct connections to Tangier. The British dependency of [[Gibraltar]] has irregular ferries to Tangier (no more than 2 departures per month). Ensure your ticket takes you to the right port, as for instance {{marker|type=go|name=Tanger Med port|lat=35.876528|long=-5.516655}} is 50 km from Tangier city. From the south of Spain (Estepona) a sailing yacht will take you for a few days to the north east of Morocco (Smir). ==Get around== With an area of 446,300 square kilometres (172,300 sq mi), Morocco is a relatively easy country to get around in. A trip from [[Taroudant]] to [[Rabat]] will easily take you 5½ hours by car, depending on traffic conditions. ===By train=== [[File:The train to Fes (3092552771).jpg|thumbnail|Moroccan intercity train]] [[File:Railways Morocco.png|thumb|350px]] Trains are generally the best option because of their speed, frequency and comfort. However, the network is limited, though it travels to many of the main tourist destinations. Two of the main lines, which both operate hourly most of the day are the following: * Al Boraq [[high speed rail]] train, traveling between [[Tangier]] and [[Casablanca]] via [[Rabat]] and Kenitra. Between Tangier and Casablanca, trains take about 2 hours 20 minutes to complete the journey. Until further construction takes place, only the portion between Tangier and Kenitra is along high speed rail, where it travels at 300 km/h, and otherwise the trains travel around 160 km/h. * Line between [[Marrakech]], Casablanca, Rabat, Kenitra, [[Meknes]], and [[Fez]]. While this is not a high speed train, much of journey is at 160 km/h. A branch line to Oujda starts at [[Sidi Kachem]] linking [[Meknes]] and [[Fez]] to the main lines. The rail network is operated by '''[https://www.oncf-voyages.ma/ ONCF]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. Tickets can be purchased both online and at stations and they are very cheap compared to Europe. For examples, Casablanca to Marrakech: 146 dirham for second class, 180 first, 2 hours 39 minutes. The only drawback with Moroccan trains are that they are very frequently delayed, so don't count on the timetables if you are in a hurry. People are incredibly sociable and friendly on the trains in Morocco and you will find yourself perpetually talking to strangers about your journey. Each new person will advise you on some new place you should go or invite you to their home for couscous. Stations in smaller cities are often poorly marked, and your fellow passengers will be more than happy to let you know where you are and when you should get off. It's expected to greet (''Salam'') new passengers entering your compartment, and if you bring fruit, cake, etc., it's common to offer the other passengers something as well. If you spend a little extra for 1st class you increase your chances of meeting someone proficient in many languages. There are three daily departures from Tangier, bound for either [[Oujda]] or Marrakech, although all of them can be used to reach either destination as there are corresponding trains in Sidi Kachem using the opposite branch of the train coming from Tangier. The night trains between Tangier and Marrakech offer couchettes for an extra 100 dirham. This is the only option if you would like to lie down sleeping as there are obstacles between the seats in regular compartments. In summer, train compartments can be hot, with passengers standing everywhere when all seats are taken. First class train cars are supposed to have working air conditioning, however, not all train cars with air conditioning have it in working mode, so it's advisable to bring with you plenty of water (there are no vending machines on [https://www.oncf-voyages.ma/ ONCF]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} trains, unlike SNCF or TrenItalia trains, and the conductor with a vending cart is not often easy to find). For example, the travel time between Tangier and Fez is about 5 hours and with no AC and no water, the ride can become unbearable in the summer desert heat. When you arrive at a station, to reaching the platform you'll need to validate your ticket (checkpoint at the entrance). ===By bus=== Luxury '''buses''' are the next best bet, with almost universal coverage, if somewhat odd departure times in some places. [http://www.ctm.ma/ '''CTM'''], [http://www.supratours.ma/ '''Supratours'''] and some smaller companies provide good comfort with reasonable prices. Supratours buses offer specific tickets to link with the rail system and are bookable on the train company website as Supratours is run by it. All bus companies charge for baggage separately, however CTM is the only one that does this officially and provides baggage receipts. On Supratours, whoever takes your bag will demand up to 20 dirham (pay no more than 5 dirham). Do not pay for luggage that you can take aboard with you and that fits in the overhead locker of between your feet. Touts will try to charge you for that, strongly refuse. Nearly every city has a central bus station (''Gare Routière'') where you can buy tickets to travel from region to region (and in some cities certain companies run their own stations - mostly that applies to the operators CTM (''Gare Voyage'') and partly Supratours). You can either choose the buses for tourists with air-conditioning and a TV. Or you can also take the local buses which cost only 25-50% of the tourist buses and are much more fun. They are not very comfortable, but you can get in contact with the local people and learn a lot about the country. The buses often take longer routes than the big ones, so you can see villages you would never get to as a "normal" tourist. For heat-sensitive people this is not advisable though, as locals may tell you that 35 degrees is "cool" and no reason for opening a window. The route from Rissani, Erfoud, and Er Rachidia to Meknes and Fez, while long, runs through the Middle and High Atlas and is particularly scenic. At the large bus stations (''Gare Routière''), always buy your ticket at the ticket window inside of the bus station. Otherwise you will mostly overpay. Several touts will approach you as you enter the bus station, and try to sell you a ticket. While a local will get a proper ticket with them (because they know the prices), tourists will most certainly be overcharged. Also, the ticket windows often (must) have prices and time tables displayed. You might get the ticket with the same guy that approached you in the beginning, but it will consequently be much cheaper. Local intercity buses can be entered along the highway or main road, where you will pay the conductor. Always ask for the price before entering, and if too high, refuse. At least the conductors will understand, that you will not board if too high and give you a good price. Supratours and CTM buses will not stop anywhere for you to enter except for the main bus stations&mdash;the driver is not allowed to sell tickets. Luxury buses operated by [http://www.ctm.ma CTM] are also inexpensive and offer an easier travelling experience than local buses. [http://www.supratours.ma/ Supratours], a major rival of CTM, complements the train network to Essaouira and all major Atlantic-coast towns south to Marrakech. CTM and Supratours tickets can often not be booked online directly with the bus operator using a foreign bank card. In this case, they can either be bought in person at the bus stations, or using [https://www.marrakechtickets.co.uk/ Marrakech Tickets]. Note that Marrakech Tickets will charge a significant fee and take a few hours (or even days) to process your request, which involves sending you an invoice by email. '''Local intercity buses''' are a completely valid choice for the hardier traveller, and often even have more leg room than the luxury buses although this may be just because the seat in front of you is disintegrating. They can be extraordinarily slow as they will stop for anyone, anywhere, and only luxury buses are air conditioned (and locals hate open windows). Although, one exception seems to be the [[Agadir]]-[[Essaouira]] route, where even local buses are very fast. Probably due to the number of buses on this route and the desire to pick up as many passengers as possible along the way (not going to happen if overtaken by another company). ===By e-hailing=== You can hail a taxi or private car with the apps of Careem, Heetch, Roby and InDrive. Uber stopped operations in Morocco in 2018{{go|lastedit=2024-05-21}} ===By taxi=== [[File:Grand Taxi Ait Melloul.jpg|thumb|Grand taxi]] Travel by taxi is common in Morocco. There are two sorts: *''Petit taxi'' used only within the area of the town *''Grand taxi'' can be used for trips between towns, and for larger groups ====Petit taxi==== Prices for petit taxi are reasonable, and it's the law that taxis in town should have a meter&mdash;although they are not always on. Insist that the driver starts the meter, although in the more touristy cities drivers will refuse point-blank. If not, ask for the fare before getting in (but it will be more expensive). You can and should bargain the fare down, ideally to an amount for which you have exact change, as the driver often doesn't have it. There often is a minimum fare for trips during the day and another during the night, both listed on a sticker along with other prices in the taxi. And because in some small cities, the metered fare is always lower than the minimum fare, trips are not metered there, and the price is fixed at the minimum fare. In such cities without metered taxis, those stickers are sometimes missing as well. Ask an uninvolved local whether there is such a minimum fare and how high it is (7 dirham is reasonable during the day, 10 at night). Petit taxis are not allowed to leave the city borders and is thus not an option for travelling between cities. ====Grand taxi==== [[File:Morocco, Souss-Massa-Draa Region, Ouarzazate Province, Tazenakht (4).JPG|thumbnail|Grand taxis are often 1970s and 1980s Peugeots and Mercedes]] The grand taxi is a shared, generally long-distance taxi, with a fixed rate for specific route; the driver stopping and picking up passengers like a bus. Grand taxis are usually found near main bus stops. Negotiate on price if you want a journey to yourself and this will be based on distance travelled and whether you are returning—but price per taxi should not depend on the number of passengers in your group. When sharing grand taxi with others, drivers may cheat tourist-looking passengers charging higher—look how much locals around you pay; don't worry to ask other passengers about the normal price, before boarding or even when you're in. Fares are semi-fixed and shared equally between passengers. However, there are six passenger seats per car not four (this is for the ubiquitous Mercedes, there are 8 or 9 seats in the bigger Peugeots in the southeast). Two people are expected to share the front seat, with four across the back. If you want to leave immediately or you want extra space you can pay for any additional empty seats. Grand taxis generally cost less than a luxury bus but more than the local bus. Late at night, expect to be charged a little more than at daytime, and also to pay for all the seats in the car as other customers probably won't show up that late. Grand taxis formerly were 10-year-old Mercedes, regular saloon cars that in Europe are used for up to 4 passengers plus driver. However, nowadays they are replaced more and more by Peugeot vans. For a grand taxi, it is normal to share a car between up to 6 passengers. The front seat is normally given to two women. Some travellers often pay for 2 seats that remain unoccupied to travel with more space inside, and hence comfort. Beware, some taxi drivers will refuse to drive off until the taxi is full, potentially causing you delays. Alternatively, for a relatively reasonable sum (depending on the driver), you can hire a grand taxi in Marrakech for the entire day, allowing you to explore the sights of the surrounding region. Most grand taxis operate only on a single route and that for trips outside of their licensed route they need to get permission from police first. Taxi owners vie with each other to add extras such as sunshades. A clean vehicle and smart driver is usually a good sign of a well maintained vehicle. Grand taxis can also be hired '''privately''' for approximately the price of two petit taxis for shorter trips. This is useful if your party is of four or more. If you plan to take a grand taxi for a custom tour it is best to book one day ahead to give the driver time to get this permission. ===By plane=== Domestic flying is not a popular means of transportation; however, Royal Air Maroc, the national flag carrier, has an excellent but expensive network to most cities. Air Arabia is another choice. Starting in 2024, European low-cost carrier [https://www.ryanair.com Ryanair] operates 11 domestic routes in Morocco between several cities for fares starting as low as 190 dirham, and may even beat the train on both speed and price in some cases, though with limited frequency and baggage allowances. ===By tramway=== The [http://www.casatramway.ma/ Casablanca tramway] is 30 km long, with 49 stops, and Y-shaped. Tickets cost 6 dirham; buy your ticket before boarding. You have a choice between a rechargeable ticket valid for 10 journeys only, or a rechargeable card, valid for 4 years. This is, after the [http://www.tram-way.ma Rabat-Salé tramway]{{Dead link|date=July 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, the second tram system in Morocco, but also the largest system in number of stations and the length of the route. ===By car=== {{see also|Driving in Morocco}} In many ways the traffic culture is different from what you would experience in western countries. The main road network is in good condition but due to the lack of dedicated cycling lanes and pedestrian paths in all but the largest cities, they are shared by many cyclists, pedestrians and horse-drawn vehicles. Roads have a good surface, although some are very narrow, in most cases only one narrow lane in each direction. Many roads in the south marked as sealed actually have only a central strip, one lane wide, sealed with wide shoulders to be used every time you meet oncoming traffic and this is a sensible economic solution in these areas of sparse traffic and long straight roads – except when you can not see oncoming traffic because of windblown dust! Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly illegal even if you drink just one beer. ===By thumb=== Hitching is a routine form of travel in Morocco. Particularly in large farm trucks which supplement income by picking up paying passengers. Price is about half that of a grand taxi. Expect to ride in the back with lots of locals. ==See== [[File:Maroc Marrakech Jemaa-el-Fna Luc Viatour.JPG|thumbnail|Jemaa-el-Fna square in Marrakech]] [[File:Chefchaouen, Morocco (5409528959) (3).jpg|thumbnail|Chefchaouen]] [[File:02-beach-agadir-morocco.JPG|thumbnail|At the beach of Agadir]] Movie-famous '''[[Casablanca]]''' might be the most famous of Moroccan cities and is home to the huge '''Hassan II mosque''', the second largest mosque in the world with only the Grand Mosque of Mecca surpassing it. Many travellers quickly leave this vibrant and modernist metropolis on a search for a more traditional Moroccan experience, but admiring the impressive colonial architecture, Hispano-Moorish and art-deco outlook of the city centre is actually time well spent. '''[[Marrakesh]]''', known as the "Red City" and probably the most prominent former imperial capital, will leave you with memories to cherish for life. Spend your days wandering through the lively souqs, admiring the old '''gates and defense walls''', see the Saadian Tombs, the remnants of the El Badi Palace and visit the Koutoubia Mosque with its 12th century minaret. However, when evening falls make sure to head back to '''Jamaa el-Fnaa''', the largest square in Africa, as it fills up with steam-producing food stalls. Indulge in the bustling activity there, listen to Arabic story tellers, watch magicians and Chleuh dancers. '''[[Fez]]''', once Morocco's capital, is another gorgeous imperial city. Get lost in its lovely labyrinth of narrow Medieval streets, enjoy its huge medina, see the beautiful city gates, the ancient '''University of Al-Karaouine''' and the '''Bou Inania Madrasa'''. Also, make sure to visit a traditional '''leather tanning factory'''. The city of '''[[Meknes]]''' is often called the "Versailles of Morocco" for its beauty. Its lovely Spanish-Moorish style centre is surrounded by tall city walls with impressive gates and you'll be able to see the 17th century blend of European and Islamic cultures even today. For a more laid-back experience of medina life, catch a sea breeze at the coastal towns of '''[[Asilah]]''' or lovely '''[[Essaouira]]'''. The blue-washed town of '''[[Chefchaouen]]''' is an old time travellers' favourite and a great starting point to explore the Rif Mountains. Other impressive mountain scenery can be in found in the Atlas Mountains. On your way to the desert, make sure not to miss the stunning '''Todra gorge''' near [[Tinghir]]. The ancient fortified city of '''[[Aït-Benhaddou]]''' is another must-see sight. Although rainstorms damage the mud-brick kasbahs time and again, this mostly abandoned village remains an impressive sight and has been the décor for a range of movies, including ''Lawrence of Arabia'' and ''Gladiator''. The Kingdom of Morocco retains a number of '''royal residential palaces''' dating to the late 12th century. They are often known as '''Dar al-Makhzen''', in reference to its monarchical institution. ==Do== ===Trekking=== Climb North Africa's highest mountain '''Mt. Toubkal''' (''Jebel Toubkal'') from [[Imlil]], passing lovely adobe villages and exploring the gorgeous Ourika and Amizmiz valleys on the way. Or just trek the [[High Atlas]] mountains. The stunning panoramic views from the top will make it worth every bit of your effort to get there. Other praised hiking routes lead through the beautiful Ameln Valley in the Anti-Atlas and the forests of the '''[[Middle Atlas]]'''. ===Tourist tours=== Marrakech can make a good base for tours all over Morocco, from exploring the [[High Atlas]], over riding the camel or quad, to 1-4 days '''Sahara treks'''. A sheer endless number of tour providers are waiting for the willing-to-pay tourist. Hop on a camel back for a trip through the golden '''Sahara sand dunes''' at [[Erg Chebbi]], near [[Merzouga]]. Spend the night in a desert tent, under the incredibly starred sky. Somewhat less easy to reach but therefor also less crowded are the dunes of [[Erg Chigaga]] near [[M'hamid]]. ===Hammams=== [[File:2006 Chefchaouen-Hamam.jpg|thumbnail|Hammam in Chefchaouen]] There are two types of Hammam (steam baths) across Morocco. The first is the '''tourist hammam''', where you can go and be pampered and scrubbed by an experienced staff member. As these are promoted only to tourists, they are the more expensive option with pricing usually around 150 dirham for a hammam. They are not proper hammams, but they are nonetheless enjoyable, especially for the timid. Your hotel can recommend a good one. The second option is to visit a '''"popular" Hammam'''. Popular hammams are the places where the locals go. Ask the staff at your hotel where they would go. At the popular hammams, you do it all yourself. To make the most of a popular hammam, you need to take a scrubbing mitten (available cheap in the souks), a towel, and some extra underwear (otherwise, you will be going home without any, as it will be sopping wet). Popular hammams are often only identified by tiles around a door and entrance way. If you do not speak French or Arabic, it could be a daunting, or at least a very memorable, experience. Men & women have either separate session times or separate hammams. '''Nudity in a popular hammam is strictly forbidden''' for men, so be prepared to wear your underwear or a bathing suit. For women, you'll see some wearing underwear and some going naked. Whilst in a popular hammam, you may be offered help and a massage from another person. It is essential to remember that this '''massage is nothing but a massage''', with no other intentions. Sexual contact or presumption of sexual contact does not occur in these places. If you accept a massage, be prepared to return the favour. Normal entrance prices for a popular hammam are {{MAD|7-15}}, a scrub will cost around {{MAD|30}}, and a massage another {{MAD|30}}. === Sports === * '''Football:''' the men's national soccer team play internationals at various venues. The top tiers for clubs are Botola 1 and 2, each with 16 teams, and an August-May playing season as in Europe. : Africa Cup of Nations is staged in Morocco 21 Dec 2025 – 18 Jan 2026, with 16 national men's teams competing. The host cities are Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Marrakesh, Agadir and Fez. European clubs are grumbling at this timing as they have to release their African star players for a month. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Moroccan dirham | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;dirham | date=July 2025 | USD=9.0 | EUR=10.5 | GBP=12.0 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mad-moroccan-dirham XE.com] }} [[File:Moroccan dirham.jpg|thumb|Dirham banknotes, with Hassan Tower in the background ([[Rabat]])]] The local currency is the '''Moroccan dirham''', sometimes symbolised as "'''Dh'''", "'''Dhs''', "'''DH'''", "'''درهم''', or the plural form of "'''دراهم'''" or "'''Dhm'''" (ISO code: '''MAD'''). Wikivoyage articles will use ''dirham'' to denote the currency. It's divided into 100 santime or centimes (c). There are coins in denominations of 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, 1, 2, 5 and 10 dirham, although coins smaller than 20c are rarely seen in circulation these days. Banknotes are available in denominations of 20, 50, 100 and 200 dirham. While the dirham is the only currency officially accepted in Morocco, some hotels may accept your euros and US dollars unofficially. Try to have as many small notes as possible, even accommodations tend to never have any change ready. But also in general, keep larger bills hidden separately, just in case. Prices in Morocco are quite stable, i.e. the references you find in this guide, even if a couple of years old, are very reliable. '''Note:''' Dirham may generally not be exported or imported. A tolerance of 2,000 dirham applies to tourists; more information can be found at the [http://www.douane.gov.ma/ Moroccan customs website]. ==== Money exchange ==== It is illegal to take more than 2,000 dirham of local currency out of the country, so you can't buy dirham outside of Morocco. Airport security conduct periodic currency checks and will confiscate dirham to be taken out of the country. By law, exchange rates should be the same at all banks and official exchanges. Make a note of the exact rates before you go to make sure you're getting a fair deal. Besides banks and dedicated exchange offices, major post offices provide exchange, and work until late hours. Don't expect to see many banks in the ''souqs'' or ''medinas'', although in larger cities there is often an ATM near the main gates, and even one or two inside the large souqs (if you manage to find your way). You may also encounter "helpful" people who will exchange US dollars or euros for dirham. Unofficial exchange on the streets outside souqs or medinas doesn't seem to exist. While changing money from a common widely used currency (e.g. USD or Euros) to dirhams will be easy in cities regularly visited by tourists, changing from dirhams to another currency due to a number of barriers, which include: * For foreigners, the Official "Bureau de Change" won't change dirhams to other currency unless the foreigner has a receipt showing they changed at least that amount of currency into dirhams through a money changer. An ATM withdrawal receipt will not be accepted as proof of currency conversion. * Except at Morocco's international airports, money changers are not permitted to change dirhams into a foreign currency, unless the person seeking the money change has a Moroccan identification card. * If you are flying in the early morning or late evening, money changers at the airport may all be closed. For instance at Rabat airport, money changers do not open until 7 am. * On Sundays, if you are changing money to dirhams, non-bank money changers may not issue receipts. Due to these barriers, it is recommended that you: * If possible, take flights out of the country during the daytime or early to mid evening. * Bring some foreign currency and change it in Morocco, so that you can change what you have leftover at the end of your trip out of dirhams. * Prior to changing money to dirhams, confirm that you will receive a receipt. * Minimize the amount of cash in dirhams that you will have at the end of your trip. ==== ATMs ==== ATMs can be found near tourist hotels and in the modern ''ville nouvelle'' shopping districts. Make sure that the ATM accepts foreign cards (look for the Maestro, Cirrus or Plus logos) ''before'' you put your card in. Also be aware that they are not refilled during weekends in smaller towns, so get enough cash for the weekend on Friday or Saturday morning. As of March 2024, the Al Barid bank does not charge '''ATM fees'''. Also for local banks it's more likely that withdrawing money is for free (apart from the fee your bank charges). About 30 dirham are charged for withdrawals by some banks like Société Générale, BCME, Bank Populaire, BMCI (BNP Paribas), Attijariwafa and others. It could happen that an ATM does not display any fees, you don't get a receipt and on your bank account you notice that they charged anyhow. Talk to your bank and try to reject these fees to make this practice harder in the future. For buying something: If there is no price tag, '''ask for the price first'''. ==== Payment at the airport ==== In event that you plan on spending your remaining dirhams at a Moroccan airport, please note that: * Prices at the stores are shown in Euros, not dirhams. * Expect that some stores will not accept dirhams and some may only accept dirhams for select items in the store. * Like many countries' airports, the cost of some purchases may be multiple times the cost of buying it elsewhere. ===Shopping=== {{infobox|What does it cost? (May 2019)|* Oranges: 4 dirham/kg * Bananas: 8-10 dirham/kg * Melon: 8 dirham/kg * Dates: 10-30 dirham/kg, depending on the quality * Dried Curcuma roots: 50 dirham/kg * Water 1.5 l: 5-6 dirham * Coke 0.5 l: 5.50 dirham * Thé a la menthe / cafe noir: 6-8 dirham * Tagin or couscous: 25-60 dirham, depending on how touristy * Grand taxi: 50-60 dirham / 100 km * Bus: 20-30 dirham / 100 km * Double room: from 170-300 dirham * Pack of Marlboros: 35 dirham * Tobacco for shisha: 20 dirham * Argan oil: from 20 dirham / 100 ml * Rhassoul/ghassoul ½ kg: 8 dirham * Small "silver" teapot (2-3 cups): 10-15 dirham + 30 dirham for heat glove |}} ====What to buy==== [[File:Souks Marrakech 039.JPG|thumbnail|Souvenir shop in the souq of Marrakech]] Apart from classic tourist souvenirs like postcards and trinkets, here are some things from this region that are hard to find elsewhere, or even unique: * '''Birad''' &ndash; Classic Moroccan tea pots. * '''Carpets''' &ndash; Genuine handmade Berber carpets can be purchased direct from the artisans who weave them. If you go to small villages, such as Anzal, in the province of Ouarzazate, you can visit the weavers, watch them work, and they will happily serve you tea and show you their products. * '''Dates''' &ndash; 10 dirham for an orange box seems an adequate price after some bargaining. However, in Europe dates are quite cheap as well, especially when bought at Middle Eastern or Turkish shops. In the end, how much sugar is really good for you? * '''Djellabah''' &ndash; Classic Moroccan designer robe with a hood. Often come in intricate designs and some are suited for warm weather while other heavier styles are for the cold. * '''Leatherware''' &ndash; Morocco has a really huge production of leather goods. Markets are full of mediocre models (you will notice that they use the same cuts and zippers for all the different types of cloths) and designer shops are hard to find. Instead, maybe you want to opt for pure leather itself and do the good work yourself back home&mdash;purses, vests, whatever ... stitching and sewing is becoming more and more popular in Europe again. * '''Rhassoul/ghassoul''' &ndash; Also called wash soil in Europe, where it costs about 10 times as much as in Morocco. * '''T-shirts''' &ndash; If you're looking for T-shirts, consider designer items by Kawibi&mdash;they look much more inspiring than boring traditional set of themes. They are available in duty-free stores, Atlas Airport Hotel near Casablanca and other places. * '''Spices and black soap:''' Morocco is famous for its spices and you will see black soap at every herbs shops in the Medinas. Although spices markets are beautiful and perfect for pictures, the cheapest place to buy them is probably Carrefour. If you get the chance, go to the big supermarkets 5 - 10 km outside the centre of the cities, where you will find the same spices they sell in the Medina, but for one tenth of the price! ====What not to buy==== * '''Geodes''' &ndash; Pink and purple dyed quartz are widely sold along with fake galena geodes which are often described as "cobalt geodes". * '''Trilobite fossils''' &ndash; Unless you are an expert, you will most likely be buying a fake. * '''Artisanal''' or '''cooperative''' &ndash; These are catch phrases put up for tourists and just mean an increased price, but not necessarily higher quality or higher sustainability. Such facts can barely be verified and whether an oil is good or not is a poker game. Either way, you are always better off buying where locals do, because there you can expect quality also locals would go for. Get advice from your ho(s)tel staff where to buy good quality and at what price, but never let them show you directly. And if they say it is their cousin or friend, it is better to avoid it. Then go around the market for even more asking and checking of the lower price barrier of the merchants. Only after that decide what to buy and at what price. * '''Argan oil''' &ndash; Forget about it. It is impossible to tell whether you got something proper. Just because a lady in the shop is kneading stuff in oil, doesn't mean it is anyhow related to the oil they sell. Just because a pressing machine is inside the shop, and they claim to use it to get the oil, it does not mean they actually do so. Just because your guide or the shop owner claim it is the best Argan oil around, doesn't mean it is. Just because they claim it is locally produced, organic (bio), artesanal, from a collective or has fancy logos and graphics, does not mean it is actually genuine&mdash;there is no such thing as a proper Moroccan certification. And just because the price is high does not mean either, it is good quality. Margins for Argan Oil are high, it is hard to identify genuine oil, and tourists are begging to be ripped off ... it only makes sense that this is a big scam you should avoid. Nevertheless, if you are really keen on getting some oil, look up the price for Argan oil in Europe&mdash;it is about €16/250 ml. Only this is what you should use as a base for bargaining. But you are probably better off not paying more than half than that in Morocco. Probably buying in a regular supermarket would be the best idea. Note that of course 100 ml bottles are sold at a far higher price (for tourists in little shops), because they can be carried as hand luggage .... so, what is really the point in the end in paying more than at home, and not even being sure about the product's quality? ===Bargaining=== [[File:Tangier Medina 4.JPG|thumbnail|Artisan in the medina of Tangier]] Remember that [[haggle|bargaining]] in the souks is expected. It is not really possible to give an accurate indication of how much to start the bargaining at in relation to the initial asking price, but a general idea would be to aim for approximately 50% off. Prices are set on a daily, even hourly, basis, depending on how much has been sold on a given day (or period of hours), while also reflecting the vendor's personal estimation of the potential client. The souks are often a good reflection of the basic economic principles of supply and demand, particularly with regard to the demand side. If a lot of products have been sold by a particular merchant he/she will raise the price, and may refuse to sell any more products for the rest of that day (or for days) unless the price is much higher than usual. If there are many tourists around prices go higher and bargaining even small amounts off the asking price becomes quite difficult. In addition, the seller will generally inspect the client, whose dress and possessions (particularly if the potential client sports an expensive Swiss watch, camera, etc.) are usually the main indication of how high the price may be set above the usual. However, the potential client's attitude is also taken into consideration. Taking all this and other factors into account (such as the time of day, day of the week, and season), initial prices may be up to 50 times or more in excess of normal prices, especially for more expensive items, such as carpets. '''Carpets''', however, are a very specialized item and it is necessary to have at least a cursory understanding of production techniques and qualities. If possible, an ability to distinguish between hand-made and machine-made carpets, hand-dyes, and the like is helpful to avoid being utterly duped. '''Bargaining is an enjoyable experience for most vendors''' and they prefer clients that don't appear hurried and are willing to take the time to negotiate. It is most often actually necessary to give reasons why you believe the price should be lower. The reasons you might give are limited only by your imagination and often lead to some very entertaining discussions. Common reasons may include: the price of the item elsewhere, the item not being exactly what you are after, the fact that you have purchased other items from the stall/store, that you have built a rapport with the vendor after discussing football and so forth. On the other hand, '''if there is little movement in the price after some time, the best advice is to begin leaving''', this often has the result of kick-starting the bidding anew, and if not, it is likely that the merchant is actually unwilling to go further below a given price, however absurd. It is also important to '''show a genuine interest in the workmanship''' of the product for sale, no matter how uninterested you may actually be in what you are buying. This does not, however, mean that you should appear over-enthusiastic, as this will encourage the vendor to hold his or her price. Rather, it is important to project a critical appreciation for each article/object. Any defects are either unacceptable or a further opportunity to bargain the price down. You should take caution to never begin bidding for unwanted items or to give the vendor a price you are unwilling or unable (with cash on hand) to pay. Try to avoid paying by credit card at all costs. In the event you do pay by credit card, never let it out of your sight and demand as many receipts as possible. There is typically a credit card carbon copy and an official shop receipt. '''Never tell a vendor where you are staying''' and '''never tell a vendor how much you paid for any other purchases'''. Just say you got a good price and you want a good price from him or her too. It's best to be politely passive aggressive, sometimes for hours if you really want to save a few dirhams. And, above all, never be afraid to say 'No'. It must also be said that, as is true for buyers, not all sellers are actually very good at what they do. A vendor that is completely uninterested or even aggressive is unlikely to give a good price. Move on. Last but not least, when you spend all of your holiday in the same place, especially in smaller, touristy towns: Vendors deal with tourists all the time. Most tourists buy souvenirs just before flying home, most tourists try the "walk out" trick as part of their bargaining strategies. It is not unheard of that tourists haggle for a carpet on a Friday, walk out and when they come back the next day, expecting a lower offer, the price actually increases. The vendor knows that you are likely to catch a flight the same day and that your second visit is actually your last chance to buy the carpet. ==Eat== [[File:Casa didier55 009.jpg|thumb|Casablanca's ''souk'']] {{see also|North African cuisine}} Moroccan cuisine is often reputed to be some of the best in the world, with countless dishes and variations proudly bearing the country's colonial and Arabic influences; see [[French cuisine]] and [[Middle Eastern cuisine]]. Unfortunately as a tourist through Morocco, especially if you're on a budget, you'll be limited to the handful of dishes that seem to have a monopoly on cafe and restaurant menus throughout the country. Most restaurants serve dishes foreign to Morocco considering that Moroccans can eat their domestic dishes at home. Apart from major cities, Moroccans do not generally eat out in restaurants so choice is generally limited to international fare such as French, Italian and Chinese cuisine. ===Traditional cuisine=== * '''''Bissara''''', a thick glop made from split peas and a generous wallop of olive oil can be found bubbling away near markets and in medinas in the mornings. Rarely available in touristy places. * '''Couscous''', made from semolina grains and steamed in a colander-like dish known as a ''couscoussière'' is a staple food for most North Africans. It can be served as an accompaniment to a stew or ''tagine'', or mixed with meat and vegetables and presented as a main course. Manual preparation (i.e. not "instant couscous") takes hours. Any restaurant that has couscous on the regular menu should be avoided, it will not be the real thing. But lots of restaurants serve couscous once a week (usually Fridays) for lunch and advertise this widely - they tend to make real couscous and often for much better prices. * '''Fish''' on southern beaches is usually very fresh (caught the same day) and cheap. A mixed fish plate comes for about 25 dirham at stalls in the markets of fishing villages, a huge plate of grilled sardines is 15-20 dirham. If bought fresh at the fish market, a kilogram of fish is 5-20 dirham (the latter for a small kind of tuna). Most restaurants in fishing towns have a BBQ in front and will grill any fish you bring them for 30 dirham (includes fries, a salad and bread). Fish is gutted on demand at the markets, just tell them how you want to prepare it (for a BBQ you get a nice butterfly cut, for tagine it is just gutted). A small tip of 1-2 dirham is appropriate for the gutting. * '''''Ghoulal''''': Land snails in a delicious, rich broth can be found at least as far south as Marrakesh at street food stalls. Servings start as low as 3 dirham, in Marrakesh's main square at 10 for the first serving, 5 for every subsequent serving. * '''''Harira''''' is a simple soup made from lentils, chick peas, lamb stock, tomatoes and vegetables, that is nourishing but light on the stomach and can be eaten as part of any meal. Most Moroccans have it at least once a week, many every day. It is even part of the traditional first meal after sunset during Ramadan in Morocco: dates, followed by harira. A serving starts at 3 dirham; on menus it is often referred to as just ''moroccan soup'' or in French, ''soupe marocaine''. It is probably the most "Moroccan" dish of all and one cannot really claim to have been to Morocco without having tried it at least once. * '''''Khlea''''' (also: '''''kaliya''''') might be more on the adventurous side, taste-wise: meat preserved in fat (mostly lamb, but camel too is produced on industrial scale), usually prepared in a tagine with egg and tomato. The result is very fatty, the meat has a very intense taste and is usually quite chewy. The upside: Starting at 15 dirham, this will get you going for half a day at least. Might be hard to get in touristy restaurants. * '''''Pastilla''''' is a popular delicacy in Morocco: Pulled meat in a flaky dough, topped with sugar and cinnamon. Originally made with pigeon fledglings, nowadays the most common variety is made with chicken, though lamb, beef or fish are sometimes used as well. It is sometimes available as a starter on demand, but the real thing is the size of a proper pie and takes hours to prepare. A proper, pre-ordered pigeon fledgling pastilla is at least 200 dirham, 300 to 400 dirham in most touristy places. A large pastilla serves 2 to 4 people. * '''''Sfenj''''': These deep fried donuts from unsweetened yeast dough, dusted with sugar, are a popular and very filling snack that can be found throughout the country for 1 dirham per piece. They want to be eaten very fresh. Look out for stalls with a huge bowl of hot oil. [[File:Tajine Moroccan.jpg|thumb|Tagine]] *'''Tagine''' (or ''tajine''): One cannot be in the country without seeing a "tagine the dish" on the menu or a "tagine, the cooking ware" in the wild at least once. The very short version is: a "tagine de ..." on a menu is a "steamed ... in a clay pot". Everything can go into a tagine, but restaurants offer only very few dishes using the same spice formulas, which might become boring soon - albeit, with some luck pigeon or khlea can be found: ** tagine de kefta: meatballs, usually with an egg and anything from "a few" to "lots of" vegetables; can be rather spicy ** tagine de légumes: vegetables only (but don't count on vegetarian broth) ** tagine de poulet: chicken, usually with preserved lemons ("en citron") ** tagine aux pruneaux: lamb or, rarely, beef, with prunes and almonds ** tagine de bœuf/agneau/dromadaire/chèvre: beef/lamb/camel/goat with vegetables ** tagine de(s) poisson/crevettes/poulpe: fish/shrimp/octopus (in coastal regions) ** * '''Msemen:''' kind of puff pastry pancakes that you can buy everywhere on the street. They can be sided to savory or sweet dishes. Most likely you will find msemen for breakfast, with boiled or smashed eggs, with spreadable cheese or with honey and jam. Something you can also find the stuffed version, with vegetables like tomato and onions. * Many cafés (see Drink) and restaurants also offer good value '''''petit déjeuner''''' breakfast deals, which basically include a tea or coffee, orange juice (''jus d'orange'') and a croissant or bread with marmalade from 10 dirham. * At many cheap eating places stews like loubia (white beans), adassa (lentils) and ker ain (sheep foot with chickpeas) are on offer. ===Snacks and fast food=== Snackers and budget watchers are well catered for in Morocco. '''Rotisserie chicken''' shops abound, where you can get a quarter chicken served with fries and salad for around 20 dirham. '''Sandwiches''' (from 10 dirham) served from rotisserie chicken shops or hole-in-the-wall establishments are also popular. These fresh crusty baguettes are stuffed with any number of fillings including tuna, chicken, ''brochettes'' and a variety of salads. This is all usually topped off with the obligatory wad of French fries stuffed into the sandwich and lashings of mayonnaise squeezed on top. You may also see hawkers and vendors selling a variety of '''nuts''', steamed '''broad beans''' and barbecued '''corn cobs'''. ==Drink== [[File:The menthe.jpg|thumbnail|A glass of mint tea]] === Water === Bottled water is widely available. Popular brands of water include Oulmes (sparkling) and Sidi Ali, Sidi Harazem and Ain Saiss Danone (still). The latter has a slightly mineral and metallic taste. Nothing with a high mineralization produced. As a rule, do not drink tap water at all in Morocco, even in hotels, unless your stomach is "trained": Overall the quality is excellent until it reaches the house and if there is a problem the government issues warnings in time, but how water is stored in the house and the condition of the plumbing is questionable. Since a 1l bottle of water is only 5 to 7 dirham, most travelers will prefer to stick to it instead of taking the risk of 2 days of diarrhea. === Tea === Any traveller will be offered '''mint tea''' at least once a day. Even the most financially modest Moroccan is equipped with a tea pot and a few glasses. Although sometimes the offer is more of a lure into a shop than a hospitable gesture, it is polite to accept. Before drinking, look the host in the eye and say ''"ba saha ou raha"'' or just '''saha''''. It means enjoy and relax and any local will be impressed with your language skills. Be aware, that this is not pure mint tea: It is green tea (gunpowder) to which mint is added after an initial steeping. As such, it can be pretty strong, especially if one is not used to caffeine. In deserts, it tends to be really strong. Varieties are tea with '''chiba''' (wormwood), available in the winter in the north and with safron, in the region of Ouarzazate. === Juice === Juice stands are everywhere in the towns, especially Marrakech, with a remarkable variety. Orange (''limon'') is most popular, but depending on the season vendors will sell nearly every fruit in existence. Pomegranate (''rumman'') is a winter favorite. In general the equipment and glasses are clean and the juice is safe to drink, but nothing is guaranteed. === Alcohol === Although a predominantly Muslim country, Morocco is '''not dry'''. Alcohol is available in some restaurants, bars, supermarkets (Carrefour and Attacadao), clubs, hotels and discos; some (not strictly legal) liquor stores can be found as well with some research. Lots of Moroccans enjoy a drink although it is disapproved of in public places. The local brew of choice carries the highly original name of Casablanca Beer. It is a full flavored lager and enjoyable with the local cuisine or as a refreshment. The other two major Moroccan beers are Flag Special and Stork. Also you can find local judeo-berber vodka, mild anise flavored and brewed from figs (beware, though, none is produced legally and quality control is non-existent - if the taste reminds you of furniture polish, stay away). Morocco also produces various wines - some of remarkable quality. A bottle in supermarkets start at 35 dirham and go up to 1,000 dirham; a good quality wine can already be had for 50 dirham. In most riads or hotels that serve food but no alcohol, explicitly asking for a bottle of wine will magically make it appear 20 minutes later, though with a markup of at least 100%. '''Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal even if you drank just one beer'''. === Places === Cafes and bars are mostly visited by men only, a solo woman may feel more comfortable having a drink or snack at a pastry shop or restaurant. This doesn't apply to couples though. ==Sleep== [[File:HOTEL CONTINENTAL TANGER MOROCCO APRIL 2013 (8735610038).jpg|thumbnail|Inside Hotel Continental, the grand old hotel of Tangier]] There are the usual more modern '''hotels''' or equivalent found anywhere in the big cities and larger towns around Morocco. On the lower end of the budget scale, HI-affiliated '''[[Hostels|youth hostels]]''' can be found in the major cities (dorm beds from around 50 dirham) while the cheapest '''budget hotels''' (singles from around 65 dirham) are usually located in the ''medina''. Newer, cleaner and slightly more expensive budget (singles from around 75 dirham) and mid-range hotels that are sprinkled throughout the ''ville nouvelles''. Hotels can sometimes be very basic and often lack hot water and showers, while others will charge you 5-10 dirham for a hot water shower. With the exception of large high end hotels, expect the hot water supply in hotels to not be as stable as in more established countries. In Marrakech, MHamid, near Ourzazate and possibly other places, the hot water temperature varies dramatically while you take a shower. Instead, consider public ''hammams'' as there are quite a lot of them in the ''medina'' and in rural areas. Hotels in Morocco are a matter of choice and fit every budget. Classified hotels are 1-star (simple) to 5-star (luxury), and are classified as an ''auberge'', ''riad'', rural ''gîtes d'étape'' or hotel. Stays usually include breakfast, and many include dinner. '''''Auberges''''' are found in the country or in rural small towns, and are built in the traditional mud (''kasbah'') style, many with wood burning fireplaces and salons or roof terraces for taking meals. Auberge are very comfortable, small and usually family run and owned. '''Riads''' are traditional Moroccan-style housing with a rectangular, multi-storey building and an enclosed interior courtyard/garden. They have thick walls which can serve to moderate the outside temperature fluctuations, making them cooler during the day. Riads are popular in [[Marrakech]], [[Essaouira]] and [[Fes]], or anywhere there is a medina (old city). They are usually small (about 6 rooms or less), clean and charming, often with to a lovely walled garden where breakfast is served on an inner patio or up on a roof terrace. Riads are usually too small to have a swimming pool, but may have what is called a tiny plunge pool to cool off in during summer months. Some riads are in former merchant houses or palaces and may have large opulent rooms and gardens. (Note, riads are constructed adjacent to one another, and often have smaller windows, letting in less sunshine, both of which can exacerbate '''bed bug''' infestations and make extermination difficult. Best to check mattress crevices/seams for bugs/carcasses or feces (which present as black dots). Mosquito repellents such as DEET can repel bed bugs to an extent, but do not kill them upon contact, like [[Permethrin]].) By the way, a '''dar''' is similar, but often has a closed roof. '''''Gîtes d'étape''''' are simple country inns and hostel style places, where mountain trekkers can grab a hot shower, a good meal, and have a roof over their head for one night. Because coastal towns and villages are the destinations of choice for Moroccans to escape the heat from July to early September and because most Moroccans prefer '''furnished apartments''' over hotels, those towns are swamped with apartments. In the summer months and at peak season for Europeans (Easter, Autumn Holidays and from Christmas until mid-February) people will wait at the roadside at the village entrance, waving with keys. In low season you'll have to ask around (any random person on the street will do). Prices range from 75-200 dirham in low season but can be a multiple in high season. If you want to spend more than just a few days, shop around: Within villages the prices don't vary much for comparable places, but quality of furniture, kitchen equipment, internet connection and TV do a lot. Desert '''bivouacs''' are traditional nomad carpeted wool tents with a mattress, sheets and blankets. You can shower at the auberge where you will also have breakfast. Many hotels, especially those in the ''medina'' have delightful roof terraces, both in cities and the countryside, where you can sleep if the weather's too hot. This will normally cost you 20-25 dirham and you're provided with mattresses and a warm blanket. Just ask the receptionist in the hotel/auberge/gite. If you want to ask in French, which works fairly well, you can say ''ca sera possible de dormir sur la terrace, s'il vous plait?'' Often you can bargain on the price and if it's more than 30 dirham you should bargain. For those looking to '''camp''', almost every town and city has a campground, although these can often be some way out of the centre. Many of these grounds have water, electricity and cafes. In rural areas and villages, locals are usually more than happy to let you camp on their property; just make sure you ask first. Wild camping is illegal and the fines are steep; though a friendly request to the local police chief will usually get you the permission. ==Learn== Most foreigners looking to study in Morocco are seeking either Arabic or French '''language courses'''. All major cities have language centres, and some will even arrange homestays with an Arabic-speaking family during your course. ==Work== Although Morocco has a highly diversified economy and encourages foreign participation in its economy, finding a job in Morocco can be difficult. With a very high rate of unemployment (12.9% as of May 2023), there is not enough work for people. Still, having a background an education different from that of most of the local workforce may give you an advantage. Much work is informal or seasonal, which is a problem for locals, but not necessarily for you. It will be very difficult to manage life in the country without knowing [[Arabic]], [[French]], or both, so try to acquire the necessary language skills if you wish to give working in Morocco a try. Further, networking matters greatly in Morocco and the importance of having connections in the country cannot be overstated. Try to find people who can help you out. As is the case throughout North Africa, the Middle East, and the Arab world, Moroccans take business relationships seriously and expect you to demonstrate sincere and genuine interest. ==Cope== [[File:Souk, Marrakech (2242326899).jpg|thumbnail|In medinas and souqs you may meet persistent touts and shopkeepers]] Some Moroccans that you meet on the streets have come up with dozens of ways to part you from your money. Keep your wits about you, but don't let your wariness stop you from accepting any offers of generous Moroccan hospitality. Put on a smile and greet everybody that greets you, but still be firm if you are not interested. This will leave you significantly better off than just ignoring them. ===Touts=== ''Faux guides'' and touts congregate around tourist areas and will offer to show you around the ''medinas'', help you find accommodation, take you to a handicraft warehouse, or even score some drugs. While these men can often be harmless, never accept drugs or other products from them. Be polite, but make it clear if you're not interested in their services, and if they get too persistent, head for a taxi, ''salon de thé'', or into the nearest shop - the shopkeeper will show the faux guide away. Though, if it's a shop frequented by tourists, the shopkeeper may be equally eager to get you to buy something. The best way to avoid Faux guides and touts is to avoid eye contact and ignore them, this will generally discourage them as they will try ''to invest'' their time in bothering another more willing tourist. Another way is to walk quickly; if eye contact happens just give them a smile, preferably a ''strong'' and ''beaming'' one rather than a ''shy'' one meaning ''no! thanks''. Responding to everything with a polite but firm ''la shokran'' (Arabic for "no, thank you") can be particularly effective, since it doesn't reveal your native language and is understood by bystanders whose attention the tout usually does not want; they might even tell him to leave you alone. Simply ''la'' would be considered rude in this context, but can be warranted as well. Pretending you only speak some exotic language and don't understand whatever they say can be an option, too. If you engage in arguing or a conversation with them, you will have a hell of time getting rid of them, as they are incredibly persistent and are masters in harassment, nothing really embarrasses them as they consider this being their way of earning their living. Some of the more common tactics to be aware of are as follows. *Many ''Faux guides'' will pretend they are students when they approach you and that they just want to practice their English and learn about your culture, invariably if you follow them, there is a big chance you will end up in a carpet or souvenirs shop. A variant is they will show you an English letter and will ask you to translate it for them, or will ask for your help to their English-speaking friend/cousin/relative etc. abroad. *In areas of the medina with much accommodation, many young touts will wait for tourists to show them to you their hotel, just to get some dirham. They will claim GPS is not working in the medina and routes are closed. Do not believe them, never tell them the name of your place, ignore them or try to walk them out. Often your accommodation is right where you expect it just a few meters apart from where you are intercepted by the touts. *Expect to be told that anywhere and everywhere is 'close' or they shout "medina there" (even though you are right in the middle of it). Invariably, this is just a way to lull you into trusting them and a con to get you to follow them instead. Do not do this! *Do not accept 'free gifts' from vendors. You will find that a group of people will approach you accusing you of stealing it, and will extort the price from you. *Always insist that prices are fixed beforehand. This is especially true for taxi fares, where trips around a city should cost no more than 20 dirham, in general, or be done on the meter. This cannot be stressed enough. In ''all'' situations (including Henna tattoos) always agree on a price before! ===Bargaining and getting fooled=== * When [[bargaining]], never name a price that you are not willing to pay. * At bus/train stations, people will tell you that there have been cancellations, and that you won't be able to get a bus/train. Again, this is almost always a con to get you to accept a hyped-up taxi fare. * In general, do not accept the services of people who approach you. * Never be afraid to say no. Do just not fall or give in to any tout behaviour, even if it is just a few euros. This makes it harder for future tourists, and it basically identifies you as being stupid, not knowing local customs and behaviour. ===Drugs=== Another favourite of scam artists. In cities around the Rif Mountains, especially [[Tetouan]] and [[Chefchaouen]], you will almost certainly be offered ''kif'' (dope). Some dealers will sell you the dope, then turn you in to the police for a cut of the ''baksheesh'' you pay to bribe your way out, while others will get you stoned before selling you lawn clippings in plasticine. ===Ticket inspectors=== On trains inspectors have reportedly attempted to extricate a few extra dirham from unsuspecting tourists by finding something 'wrong' with their tickets. Make sure your tickets are in order before you board, and if you find yourself being hassled, insist on taking the matter up with the station manager at your destination. ===Toilets=== Moroccan toilets, even those in hotels or restaurants, might lack '''toilet paper'''. It is worth buying a roll (French: "'''papier hygienique'''"). ===Talk=== Try to learn at least a phrasebook level of competency in French or Arabic (Spanish may help you in the North - but not largely). Just being able to say ''"Ith'hab!" or "Seer f'halek"'' ("Go Away!") may be useful to you... Many locals (especially the nice ones who are not trying to take advantage of you) will speak limited English. Making a real effort to speak Arabic or Moroccan Arabic means a great deal to many Moroccans, including the majority who are multilingual, and puts you at an advantage as regards scams and bargaining. If you can at least verify prices in French with locals, you could end up saving a lot of money. ===What to wear=== You won't need high and heavy mountain boots unless you go in the coldest time of the year like February: it's quite warm in the country even when it's heavily raining in November. For trekking in valleys, low trekking shoes will likely be enough. Even in medinas, streets are paved if not asphalted—just be sure your footwear is not toeless in the medina, as garbage services are limited and fish scraps from the markets and the like tend to end up on the street. However, many Moroccan homes, most cheaper hotels, and nearly all buses have no heating, and winter nights drop to zero; you may need more layers than you will expect. For a desert trip to dunes, ensure your pockets can be easily shaken out as sand gets in there very quickly. Laundry services are exceptionally few and far between, although some hotels will provide them for a price and dry cleaners are plentiful. A few laundromats or similar do exist in newer sections of some cities, but are hard to find. It won't save you money to buy new clothes instead of washing your old ones, but it's a close thing. ===Time=== Morocco operates Daylight Saving Time except for during Ramadan. The further south you go, the more people refuse to use daylight saving time (also called "political time" in contrast to "wild time"); state-run places there will always obey DST, merchants not necessarily. ==Stay safe== [[File:Camel guard at Mausoleum Mohammad V.JPG|thumbnail|upright|"Camel guard" on horse at Mausoleum Mohammad V, Rabat]] Overall, Morocco remains a relatively safe place. Like any country, Morocco has its share of problems. Many can be easily avoided by following common sense. Avoid dark alleys. Travel in a group whenever possible. Keep money and passports in a safety wallet or in a hotel safety deposit box. Keep backpacks and purses with you at all times. Make sure there is nothing important in outside or back pockets. Drug laws are incredibly harsh in Morocco, as are the laws against prostitution and the importation, distribution and production of pornography. === Religious matters === Although the Moroccan constitution allows for freedom of religion, the clause on religious freedom is loosely defined and widely open to interpretation. It is unwise to speak badly of [[Islam]], hand out non-Islamic religious literature, or encourage Moroccans to participate in religious debates. Such actions will attract unwanted attention from the authorities and people, including expatriates, have been arrested for engaging in such activities. Attempting to preach or proselytise is also unwise, and you can expect to be heavily punished by the Moroccan authorities for doing so. There's nothing wrong with bringing bibles and other religious texts into the country so long as you use them for personal use. === Women travellers === Women especially will experience constant harassment if alone, but this is usually just cat-calls and (disturbingly) hisses. Dark sunglasses make it easier to avoid eye contact. If someone won't leave you alone, don't feel the need to be polite, look for families, a busy shop, or a local woman and don't be afraid to ask for help. If you are so inclined, you could wear a ''hijab'' (headscarf), but this is not necessary. Morocco can be a liberal country and many Moroccan women do not wear headscarves. However, women should ''always'' dress conservatively (no low-cut tops, midriffs, or shorts), out of respect for the local culture. In cities, women can wear more revealing clothing, but as a general rule they should follow the lead from local women. Locals will also assume that Moroccan women venturing into ''ville nouvelle'' nightclubs or bars alone are prostitutes in search of clientèle. Foreign women entering such places will not be so considered but will be thought of as approachable. === Major annoyances === Be careful about being drugged, especially as a solo traveller. The common and easy-to-make drug GHB only lasts 3 hours and is undetectable in the body after 7 hours, so take action immediately if you are attacked. Hustlers can be a big problem for people travelling to Morocco, and Tangier in particular. It's often difficult to walk down the street without being accosted by somebody offering to give you directions or sell you something. Your best bet is to politely refuse their services and keep walking, as all they are after is money. There are some legitimate tour guides, but your guide will receive a commission on anything you buy while you're with them, so don't let yourself be pressured into purchasing anything you don't want. In certain places, hustlers will do their best to intimidate you, and they can be very clingy, insisting that you give them money or offering their 'services'. Don't be intimidated by this; usually a firm "No" does the trick. Some of them can get nasty and abusive but before it gets to that stage walk towards a shop or crowd. Most Moroccans would immediately tell the person off if they see that you are being harassed. === Dangerous areas === Armed fighting in the disputed areas of the Western Sahara is less frequent now, but clashes between government forces and the Polisario Front still occur. Don't wander too far off the beaten path either, as this region is also '''heavily-mined'''. Don't get too close to the Mauritanian border due to terrorism, kidnapping, and murder. === Dual nationals === Dual citizenship is recognised by Morocco. If you are regarded as Moroccan by the authorities, such as by being a dual citizen or having a Moroccan father, you will be treated as a Moroccan citizen. In the unlikely event you get arrested, run into any kind of legal trouble, or get detained, your embassy will have little influence in assisting you. === Natural disasters === {{see also|Earthquakes}} The country is located near the boundary between the African Plate and the Eurasian Plate, which is a seismically active zone. However, most earthquakes in Morocco are small and cause little damage. The last major earthquake – thought to be the deadliest since the 1960 Agadir earthquake – occurred in September 2023, culminating in thousands of deaths and injuries. Morocco's building standards are poor; many buildings are poorly constructed and are not able to withstand the full force of a major earthquake. === LGBT travellers === Morocco is ''not a safe'' destination for [[LGBT travel|gay and lesbian travellers]]; Morocco's cultural and legal systems view homosexuality as immoral and anti-LGBT sentiments are common among the population. Same-sex sexual activity is punishable by 6 months to 3 years imprisonment and a fine of up to 1000 dirhams. In 2014, a gay British traveller was prosecuted and imprisoned for four months after police found incriminating photographs on his phone. ==Stay healthy== [[File:Spice Market, Marakech (2242330035).jpg|thumbnail|Spices for sale]] ===General concerns=== *'''Inoculations''': No particular inoculations are needed for Morocco under normal circumstances, but check with the [http://www.cdc.gov/travel/ US's Centre for Disease Control (CDC) travel web pages] for any recent disease outbreaks. As with most travel, it makes good sense to have a recent tetanus immunization. Consider Hepatitis A and B inoculations. *'''Food and drink''': Avoid uncooked fruits and vegetables that you can not peel. Avoid any food that is not prepared when you order it (e.g. buffets). Usually fried and boiled foods are safe. Some travellers have also had problems with unrefrigerated condiments (such as mayonnaise) used in fast food outlets. *'''Water''': It is advisable to drink bottled water (check that the cap is sealed - some people might try to sell you tap water in recycled bottles). Be wary of ice or cordials that may be made with tap water. Some hotels provide free bottled water to guests and its wise to keep a supply in your room so as not to be tempted with tap water. *'''Shoes''': Keep your sandals for the beach. Moroccan streets double as garbage disposal areas and you may not want to wade through fish heads and chicken parts with open-toe shoes. *'''[[Malaria]]''': Present in the northern, coastal areas of the country but not a major problem. Take the usual precautions against being bitten (light coloured clothing, insect repellent, etc.) and if you are really worried see your doctor about anti-malarial medication before your departure. ===Medical help=== Morocco has a public and private health care system. Most of the private sector health services are located in Casablanca, Rabat and other larger cities. Outside the major cities, health services are limited. The level of healthcare is not at the same level as in Europe. There can be large differences between private and public hospitals. Medical treatment can be obtained from self-employed doctors, clinics and hospitals. Most general practitioners, specialists, and dentists are self-employed; look for signs saying "Docteur". An average doctor's check-up in a city costs 150-300 dirham. In general, the quality of their work is decent, but you can try to ask some locals for advice and recommendations. Specialist health care services are not always available. Dental care is of a reasonable standard and prices are in line with those in western countries. Staff in private and public hospitals are highly educated, but English is poorly spoken or not spoken at all. Doctors and nursing staff often speak French. In private clinics, language skills are more common. In public hospitals, emergency care is free of charge, but in practice foreigners are always required to pay for treatment, for example for overnight stays. Moroccan private hospitals offer a higher standard of care than the public sector and, if possible, it is advisable to go directly to a private clinic. If your condition in Morocco requires more complex treatment, it is advisable to seek the opinion of two different doctors. Payments for medical and hospital services are required from foreigners in cash. The possibility of payment by credit card is rare. Ambulance services may have to be paid in advance. Travellers to Morocco are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance. Hotels in major tourist areas may have their own clinic or doctor. They also provide treatment outside office hours. There are also doctors in Morocco who make home visits. If you are in northern Morocco near the Spanish regions of Ceuta or Melilla on the African continent, you can move to the Spanish side, where you can get treatment with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Morocco has a very large number of pharmacies in both urban and rural areas. You can usually find the contact details of the pharmacy on duty on the doors of pharmacies or by using internet search services. Pharmacies are denoted by a green cross, usually in neon. They sell medicines, contraceptives, and often beauty and related products. For minor problems, they double as a medical advisor. Be prepared to describe your problem even when you know exactly what you need. Most common prescription and over-the-counter medicines are readily available, but specialised medicines can be difficult to obtain. Sometimes pharmacies can order the medicine you need with short delivery times. Pharmacies can also provide information about medical services in your area. ==Respect== {{ramadandates}} As in all of North Africa, the dominant religion is Islam, therefore, appropriate religious prohibitions and attitudes should be in order. If visiting a mosque, for example, be sure to be dressed conservatively and remove your shoes before entering it. === Social etiquette === * '''Moroccans are indirect communicators'''. They are tempered by the need to save face and protect and honour and they will avoid saying anything that could be construed as judgemental or negative. One's point is expressed in a roundabout way. * '''Do not beckon a Moroccan person directly''', even if they've done something wrong in your opinion. It is considered impolite. Under Moroccan law, you can be taken to court for this. * '''Kissing cheeks''' is practiced between members of the same gender, close friends, and family. You should not do this to someone of the opposite gender unless you're close to them. If in doubt, a '''handshake''' is the way to go. One way to demonstrate respect and sincerity: Touch your heart with your right hand after shaking someone's hand. * When greeting someone you don't know, '''always say "Salaam Alaykum"''' ("peace upon you"), which is the standard, formal greeting. In informal settings, people often greet each other with "Salaam". * '''The left hand is considered unhygienic'''. Try not to shake hands or accept something from someone with your left hand as it is considered impolite. * '''Moroccans respect their elders'''. If you come across someone who is older than you, give up your seat on public transportation for them. If you're waiting for a taxi, allow someone older to take your spot. You are expected to act politely around someone older than you, and it would be seen as rude manners if you attempt to challenge someone older than you. * Smoking kif or [[hashish]] is part of Moroccan culture and widely tolerated (though officially illegal). This said, it's frowned upon to smoke on crowded beaches or in cafes or restaurants without the owner's consent - it is OK, even expected, to ask for permission. * '''Dress smartly and conservatively in public'''. For men, it's advisable to wear long trousers and sleeved shirts, and women shouldn't wear see-through dresses. In hotels and beach clubs, there's no issue with donning swimsuits, bikinis, and shorts. * '''Public displays of affection aren't socially accepted'''. People can get arrested for doing this. === Things to avoid === Moroccans will understand that you are not fully aware of what's considered appropriate/inappropriate in their country, and they will usually be tolerant of your blunders. This said, there are some things which will be met with disapproval and you should avoid doing the following during your stay in the country. ====Politics==== * Political discourse tends to be highly sensitive in Morocco and some have been arrested for speaking out against the government and state institutions. Keep your political views to yourself. * The Moroccan royal family is protected by strict lèse–majesté laws and the constitution states that the reigning monarch is "inviolable". In other words, insulting, making fun of them, questioning their rule (this also includes advocating for republicanism), or speaking out against them is punishable by up to '''five years of imprisonment'''. * It is a social faux pas to discuss the royal family's economic power and involvement in the business world. * Avoid talking about [[Western Sahara]] and Sahrawi nationalism. Doing so could get you into trouble with the authorities. * Avoid talking about [[Algeria]]. Since the 1960s, the two countries have had strained relations and some Moroccans, particularly the older generations, harbor strong feelings towards Algeria and Algerian people. In 1975, Algeria expelled thousands of Moroccans from Algeria, separating many Moroccans from their family members. ====Symbols==== * According to the Moroccan penal code, it is '''illegal''' to show contempt – satirising, desecrating, and so on – for the symbols (the flag, the coat of arms, the national motto) of Morocco. ====Religion==== * [[Islam]] is the dominant religion in Morocco, and Islam plays an essential role in the lives of every Moroccan. During [[Ramadan]], you should refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing in public. Not doing so would be seen as highly disrespectful. The Jewish and Christian minorities are generally free to practise their religions. It is illegal to attempt to convert someone to any religion other than Islam. * Refrain from criticising or speaking badly about religion, and refrain from talking about religion from an agnostic point of view. Even highly educated Moroccans won't appreciate it. ==Connect== ===Telephone=== '''Public telephones''' can be found in city centres, but private '''telephone offices''' (also known as ''teleboutiques'' or ''telekiosques'') are also commonly used. The international dialling prefix (to dial ''out'' of the country) is 00. All normal numbers are ten digits long, counting the initial ''0'' (area code prefix) and the whole number must be dialled even for local calls within the same area code. ====Useful numbers==== :Police: '''19'''. Moroccan Royal Gendarmerie: '''17''' :Fire Service: '''15''' :Highway Emergency Service: '''177''' :Domestic directory: 160 :International directory: 120 :Telegrams and telephone: 140 :Intercity operator: 100 ====Mobile==== The mobile telephone network in Morocco can be accessed via one of the major operators: [http://www.orange.ma Orange], [http://www.inwi.ma Inwi] or [https://www.iam.ma/ Maroc Telecom] (IAM - ''Ittisalat Al Maghrib'', owned by Etisalat). Network coverage is generally good in populated areas and mostly also in the countryside. According to OpenSignal, all three providers are similarly good. Maroc Telecom has the best coverage in rural areas (including most parts of [[Western Sahara]]). The network of Maroc Telecom has also the best consistent quality. (updated September 2022) The three operators also each operate lower-budget virtual carriers: [https://win.ma/en win] (using Inwi's network), [https://www.yoxo.ma/ Yoxo] (using Orange's network), and [https://www.injoy.ma inJoy] (using IAM's network) (updated June 2025) More information on available services, coverage and roaming partners are available at: [http://www.gsmworld.com/roaming/gsminfo/cou_ma.shtml GSMWorld]. Beware that roaming with international cards from most countries is very expensive, so think about buying a local card. ====SIM cards==== SIM cards can be purchased, though some vendors require an ID; the card itself is free, the fee paid is credited to the account. The fee credited to the account is sufficient to make a few brief phone calls. They can be purchased in various shops that sport the official logo but not in all (rule of thumb: not in a kiosk, but any electronics shop works and of course the official stores of the companies). Some places that sell houseware goods may sell SIM, just ask the cashier. Arabic and French both use "SIM", repeating the word will either get you the SIM or directions to the next shop where you can get one. eSIM cards are available to purchase and activate entirely online for those phones which are compatible. As of May 2025, Maroc Telecom are offering an eSIM with unlimited 4G data over 14 days for 320.00 MAD. To activate the eSIM you need to complete set-up and then call '555'. Once activated, to finally get online, you need to text 'Internet' to 505, and your data will be connected within moments. The three virtual networks all also offer eSIMs: win by inwi in particular offers very good-value customisable plans and has a website fully available in English. (Yoko also has some competitive plans, but be warned of its more arduous cancellation policies than win.) '''Top-ups''' come in the form of scratch cards for 5 to 100 dirham which can be purchased anywhere, just look for the logo of the phone company. Many convenience stores that sell bottled water will also sell top-ups. The cards are used by sending the scratch code to some number which is explained on the scratch card itself: 555 for Maroc Telecom and Orange, 120 for INWI. When calling in to apply the top up to your account, keep in mind that the prompts will be in French or Arabic, so if you do not understand either, make arrangements for someone to assist you. Also keep in mind that when topping up, you will be given the option of applying the top up to data or to call time. '''Data plans''' are available for as little as 5 dirham per 500 MB. But 17 GB and 2 hr call, or 15 GB and 5 hr call can be had for as little as 100 dirham. While you can buy SIM cards at some Moroccan international airports from stalls operated by the major operators, the price is considerably higher than elsewhere, for instance in December 2024, the lowest price plan at Marrakech airport was 20 Euros (about 200 dirhams) for 20 GB and 5 hours talk talk. In contrast, a 30 dirham SIM card and a 50 dirham top up card, were sufficient in December 2024 to provide 7.5 GB of data and a brief amount of call time. ===Post=== [[File:L169 - Boîte aux lettres - Maroc.JPG|thumb|Moroccan letterbox]] The Moroccan postal service is generally reliable and offers a ''post restante'' service in major cities for a small fee. You will need some identification (preferably your passport) to collect your mail. Items shipped as '''freight''' are inspected at the post office before they are sent, so wait until this has been done before you seal the box. ===Email and internet=== Moroccans have really taken to the internet. '''Internet cafes''' are open late and are numerous in cities and smaller towns that see significant tourist traffic. Rates are 3-4 dirham per hour and they are often located next to, above, or below the ''telekiosque'' offices. Speeds are acceptable to excellent in the north, but can be a little on the slow side in rural areas. Most internet cafes will allow you to print and burn CDs for a small charge. Almost every restaurant and cafe offers wifi for free with usually acceptable speed. Moroccans have also really taken to 3G and 4G/LTE coverage. There is a good access to email and the internet via Mobile Phones and it is relatively inexpensive. There is 3G access even in the desert, as well as in all cities. You can easily use the mobile internet network by buying a prepaid card (see mobile section). For Maroc Telecom, data-only packages can be purchased by appending "*3" to the top-up code. As of 2017, fiber connections are rolled out throughout the country, with newly installed 4G-towers as backup. ==Go next== The land border can be crossed to Spain ([[Ceuta]] and [[Melilla]]) and to [[Mauretania]]. The border crossings to Algeria are generally closed. There are ferries to the [[Spain|Spanish mainland]]. {{isPartOf|North Africa}} {{outlinecountry}} {{geo|32|-6|zoom=6}} 8qqjywyi0zwfbab24b8x9skgua3efnr 0 23040 5091137 5061693 2025-07-11T01:48:42Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Restaurants */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091137 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Moroni_banner.jpg|pgname=Moroni}} [[File:Moroni-Harbour.jpg|thumb|upright 1.4|Moroni Harbour]] '''Moroni''' (in Arabic موروني Mūrūnī) is the capital and largest city of the [[Comoros]]. It is a lively city and an ideal base to organise trips around the island, as there are several travel agencies and you can find any kind of service you may need by asking people around. The downside is that there is a lot of garbage all over the coast, and in many other places around the city. ==Understand== Moroni has been the capital of the Comoros since 1962. It is on the western coast of Grande Comore island. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport | alt={{IATA|HAH}} | url=http://www.beit-salam.km/ | email= | address= | lat=-11.536667 | long=43.271389 | directions=20 km north of the city, in the village of Hahaia | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q653299 | content=The airport receives a number of international flights, including frequent direct flights from [[Dar es Salaam]] in Tanzania and [[Nosy Be]] in Madagascar. There are also internal flights to [[Moheli]] and [[Anjouan]], with prices around €50. Flights are often cancelled, delayed or even depart earlier than the expected time. }} The easiest way to get there is by taxi. You can either stop an empty one heading north on the corniche or take one at the taxi stop opposite Volo Volo market. The ride to the airport costs no more than [[Comoros#Money|CF]]500. {{mapframe|-11.694|43.256}} ===By boat=== Moroni is connected by boat to every other island in Comoros, to [[Dar es Salaam]] in [[Tanzania]] and to [[Mahajanga]] in [[Madagascar]]. There are no official passenger services beyond the Comoros archipelago, but travelling in a cargo vessel is doable. There are boats of different sizes and normally they don't have cabins, so you will need to find a place to lay down if your trip is overnight. This can be a seat or bench if you are lucky or even the merchandise the boat is transporting. It is always wise to ask to see the boat before buying the ticket. Basic meals are served on international routes, but again, ask first. There are at least two frequent international routes, one to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and another one to [[Mahajanga]] in Madagascar. * For '''Mahajanga''', the transport agency in charge is called '''Agency Hishma'''. It is on Itsambuni street, very close to the port. Departures are once per week and it takes 2 or 3 days, depending on the boat. One-way ticket costs €140 (the same trip leaving from Mahajanga costs €100). * To travel to '''Dar Es Salaam''', there are different agencies in charge. There is one in place Europe behind the gas station, and several in Bacha neighbourhood — just opposite the port — including '''Agency Massive''', '''Ismaili Boat''' and '''Hidaya Shipping'''. They all seem to be just different agents fir the same boat, though. To find them, leave the port from the workers gate and head to the street behind the KomoCash Centre supermarket. Tickets cost around €100 and travel time is 2-3 days. To travel among the islands, you have several options. The company '''Maria Galanta''' travels to '''Moutsamoudou''' in Anjouan (and further to Mayotte) twice per week. As of October 2018, it leaves Moroni Thursdays and Sundays, and returns Wednesdays and Saturdays. It takes 5 hours to reach Anjouan and it costs €36 one way. === By road === There are at least three different bus stations with services to different points on the island. There is no fixed schedule, but most buses run only in the morning. If there is no bus, you can probably catch a taxi there, although it might be more expensive. The stations are: ==== To the north ==== Travellers heading to Mitsamihuli, or further, should head to the Gare du Nord to take a taxi, to the neighbourhood of Salimamoud direction Hamahamet or to the Volo Volo Market stop if travelling to Mbude. ==== To the south ==== Those people travelling to Mdé, Iconi, Selea or Hambou should take a taxi in the stop of Gobadjou near Bambao. Otherwise, travellers going to Mbadijini, Fomboni, Chindini or Male can take a taxi in Karthala (do not confuse this with Hotel Karthala, which is much further east). ==== To the east ==== In order to get to Oichilli or Dimani take a taxi in the roundabout in Culée. Travellers aiming for Chomoni can find taxis in the stop of Chalma. ==Get around== There is no bus service in Moroni; everyone travels within the city by shared taxi. You can stop a taxi anywhere in the city and ask if your destination matches with the driver's route. A ride within the city costs CF200 per person, CF250 for further destinations like Iconi or Itsandra and no more than CF500 to the airport. ==See== [[File:Flickr - Woodlouse - Old Friday Mosque and harbour, Moroni.jpg|thumb|300px|Old Friday Mosque and harbour]] * {{listing | type=see | name=Volo Volo Market | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-11.6984085 | long=43.2548963 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa from sunrise to sunset | price= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content=Volo Volo market is the biggest in the city, and the island. It will give you an insight into local culture and life. It's better to visit in the morning when it is bursting with energy. Maybe put some eucalyptus or sniffing salts under your nose. }} * {{see | name= Public Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=north of the city | lat= | long= | directions=behind the Blue Lagoon restaurant | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content=Don't miss the opportunity to visit it after work time or Sundays, when it gets full of locals looking for fun and relaxation. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Old Friday Mosque | alt=Ancienne Mosquée du Vendredi | url= | email= | address= | lat=-11.7047151 | long=43.2511547 | directions=facing the sea | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content=A popular tourist spot. }} * {{see | name=Medina| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content=La Medina of Moroni is the perfect off-the-beaten track attraction. The old Arabic town is rich in unrestored carved wooden doors and you can also find the vestiges of the old bangwe. Bangwees are public discussion places, everyday men used to meet here to discuss about life or play boardgames. One can say that the bangwee is the homologue of the agora. The labyrinth of narrow and paved streets will give you the feeling of having travelled back in time. The architecture and fountains will shelter you from the sun. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=National Museum of the Comoros | alt=Le musée national des Comores | url=http://www.cndrs.km/musee.php | email= | address= | lat=-11.7020689 | long=43.2567186 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 07:30-12:30, 13:30-16:45; F 07:30-11:00; Sa 08:00-12:00 | price= | content=Established in 1989, this national museum has four exhibit rooms devoted to the preservation of Comoros' cultural heritage. Exhibit halls include history, archeology, art, and religion; social anthropology and culture; oceanography and natural sciences; and volcanology and earth sciences. }} ==Do== ==Buy== There are two main markets, Volo Volo and Chalma, where you can find anything you may wish, particularly fruit and vegetables that are often missing in supermarkets. Supermarkets are open until at least 21:00 and are well supplied, and there are also many convenience stores (''épiceries'') all around the city. ==Eat== There are plenty of options to eat in Moroni, although it is a bit more expensive than other places in the island or even in the country still it is possible to stay on a budget. ===Street food=== To have an inexpensive lunch the best options is the Volo Volo market; in the heart of the market you will find small and simple restaurants. The usual menu is either fried fish and bananas or rice with meat, it costs less than CF1000 per meal. When the sun sets it is easy to find street barbecues with brochettes, chicken wings, sweet potatoes, bananas and mandioc. Particularly the barbecues proliferate around Volo Volo market, but for a better ambiance during dinner head to Karthala, officially called place du Mahoriens, or River Gauche. River Gauche in the Corniche is named after the beauty shop in front of it; the views over the port and the families that meet there make it all a nice experience. ===Fast food=== * {{see | name=Wasta fast food | alt= | url= | email= | address=in the neighbourhood of Asgaraly | lat= | long= | directions=next to the Mag supermarket | phone= | tollfree= | hours=open from breakfast until 01:00 | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content= Fast food is served all day long.}} * {{see | name=Coraya Express | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=just on the side of L'école Abdulhamid | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Hamburgers around CF3000 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content=Kitchen always open. It offers hamburgers, crepes, pizzas, very good sandwiches and all kind of fast food. }} ===Restaurants=== * {{see | name= The New Select | alt= | url= | email= | address= Place des Banques | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Around CF1500, and keeps open for lunch/dinner mains from CF4000 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content=This popular place has a terrace from which you can contemplate people passing by. It opens early in the morning for breakfast. }} * {{see | name= Cafe de la Medina| alt= | url= | email= | address=Badjanani | lat= | long= | directions=in front of the mosque, inside the medina | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Only opens for breakfast time | price=CF1500 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content= Small café with a welcoming environment: the locals enjoy talking to tourists. }} * {{see | name=Zara Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rue de l'Union Africaine | lat= | long= | directions=just in front of Auberge Palace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Mains around CF3000 | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content=It is more popular during lunch time and more quiet at dinner, but an excellent choice in both cases. }} * {{see | name= Le Jardin de la Paix| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Mains from CF4500 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content=The restaurant hotel offers a high quality of meals, with a menu including delicious fresh fish and seafood, prepared in the Comoros fusion style. There are also a couple of Western dishes. }} * {{see | name= Le Lagon Blue| alt=the Din Sim | url= | email= | address=Rue Ahmed Djoumoi | lat= | long= | directions=halfway to Itsandra | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Mains from CF4500 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content= Beach restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Tennis Club | alt=Club House | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=It's got a number of signature dishes one can try including the spaghetti and smoked swordfish. It's also one of the few places to get alcohol in Moroni. }} ==Drink== Moroni may not look like a place to party but there are more than a couple of clubs to dance all night long. The party starts late after midnight and finishes with the sunrise. What most locals do to be full of energy is have a long nap before going clubbing. Drinking alcohol is not generally accepted in Comoros, although it is commonly seen in clubs. * {{see | name=VIP club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Route de la Corniche | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Friday and Saturday nights | price=Entrance fee KMF5000 | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=The basement of this unfinished building host a dance floor in which dancing begins late. Outside there is also a bar and a patio to take a breath. The entrance fee gets you an armband and a drink at the bar. }} * {{see | name= Le Rose Noir| alt= | url= | email= | address=Route de la Corniche | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open every Saturday night | price=Entrance fee applicable | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content=A night club in Moroni. Very European, the club-goers are not inhibited by Muslim values: there are scantily clad women, men and women dancing together, and locals drinking. }} ==Sleep== Accommodation is expensive in Moroni. If you plan to stay for more than couple of days renting an apartment may be a better option. But if you look for a hotel or pension to stay just couple of nights you still can find a wide range of possibilities: * {{sleep | name=Guesthouse Le Rapido| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= Route de l’Alliance Française| phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Rooms CF7500 shared toilet, CF10,000 en suite | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content= This may not be the most fanciest guesthouse, but it is cheap. No internet, no breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name= Pension Faida| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Route de l’Alliance Française | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Rooms CF12,500 fan, CF15,000 air-conditioned | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content= Family guesthouse, clean and comfortable. With an open patio in the back to chill. No internet connection }} * {{sleep | name=Pension Le Gambussi| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= Route de l’Alliance Française| phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Rooms CF10, 000 shared toilet, CF12,500 en suite | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content= Small pension, rooms are a bit dark. No internet connection. }} * {{sleep | name= Farida Lodge| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Rooms €30-44 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content= Breakfast not included. Farida has three rooms in her place to sublet. Internet works just near the router. The room with sea views, €44, has shared toilet. You can book from Airbnb, Booking or Agoda.}} * {{sleep | name=Auberge Palace| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Rond-Point Salimoud | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Rooms €40| wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content= This is a really good deal. Breakfast included, good internet connection and really friendly and helpful staff.}} * {{sleep | name=Jardin de la Paix| alt= | url=http://comores-jardindelapaix.com | email=info@comores-jardindelapaix.com | address=| lat= | long= | directions=Ahmed Djoumoi, Quartier Ambassadeur | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Rooms from €30| wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content= Great value. Jardin de la Paix is a charming place to stay, nicely decorated it gives always good feelings. Breakfasts included, good internet connection, very friendly staff and beautiful rooms. The restaurant serves excellent meals. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel La Grillade Moroni| alt= | url= | email= | address=| lat= | long= | directions= La Corniche | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Rooms €67 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-11-06 | content= Big and comfortable hotel with sea views, breakfast included and good internet connection.}} ==Connect== ==Go next== Most travellers visit outside the city Itsandra and Iconi. * '''Iconi''' is a beautiful village with longstanding traditions and ancient monuments, 3 km south of Moroni. To reach Iconi stop a shared taxi, check go around section. It is possible also going by foot, it is just not a very attractive walk. Iconi was the home of the last sultanate in Grand Comore, therefore the village is full of history. Indeed the remaining ruins Kapviridjeo Palace, where the Sultan Tibe Mlanaoand his wife lived, and their tombs are visitable. There are no explicatory panels but positively you will find a local willing to give you some explanations about the palace Kapviridjeo. Right in front of the palace you can see the magnificent Friday's Mosque, and in between the natural pool that fills and empties with the ties. Don't miss the joyful children playing in the pool after school is finished. Right in the centre of the Medina is the best preserved, and still in use, bangwee. Bangwees are public discussion places, everyday men meet here to discuss about life or play boardgames. One can say that the bangwee is the homologue of the agora. Finally, visit the famous volcano Djabal, from which the women of Iconi thought themselves to the emptiness under the threat of being kidnapped and sold as slaves by Malagasy pirates. It can be easily climb up in less than half day and it will reward you with beautiful views over the coast and Iconi. There are no restaurants in Iconi, so bring your own picnic if necessary. * '''Itsandra''' is 3 km to the north, the distance can be easily done in a walk. The village is full of restaurants, but most people visit it to relax at the beach. The public beach besides Le Sim Sim restaurant is very popular during afternoons and Sundays. Itsandra also has its own beautiful Medina. {{IsPartOf|Grand Comore}} {{usablecity}} {{geo|-11.7036111|43.2536111}} l1a572hljmc32k9flelezjkz8dbizpn 0 23300 5091333 5089454 2025-07-11T10:40:17Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Buy */ 5091333 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Island of Mozambique banner Small boats.jpg|caption=Boats outside Ilha de Mozambique}} '''Mozambique''' (Portuguese: ''Moçambique'') is a country on the Indian Ocean coast of [[Southern Africa]]. From the Monte Binga peak, {{m|2,436}} high, to the stunning beaches along the coast, Mozambique is a country of contrasts. As well as some of the best colonial era architecture and relics to be found on the continent, Mozambique has also preserved its African cultural heritage, which can be experienced through art, music and food. Its eastern coastline along the Indian Ocean is more than 1,000 km long, a fantastic draw for scuba divers, fishermen, sailors and beach lovers. ==Regions== Mozambique has 10 provinces that can be grouped into the following three regions: {{Regionlist| regionmap=Mozambique regions.svg | regionmapsize=400px | region1name=[[Northern Mozambique]] | region1color=#71b37b | region1items= | region1description=Cabo Delgado, Nampula and Niassa provinces| region2name=[[Central Mozambique]] | region2color=#8a84a3 | region2items= | region2description=Manica, Sofala, Tete and Zambézia provinces| region4name=[[Southern Mozambique]] | region4color=#d09440 | region4items= | region4description=Gaza, Inhambane and Maputo provinces, and the Bazaruto National Sea Park| }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Northern Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q14227435}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#8a84a3|title=[[Central Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q14210533}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d09440|title=[[Southern Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q14234730}} ==Cities== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Maputo]]|wikidata=Q3889}} - the thriving capital in the far south of the country. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Beira]]|wikidata=Q211563}} - a busy port town and capital of Sofala Province. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ilha de Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q331099}} - a [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]] and the former capital under Portuguese rule. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Inhambane]]|wikidata=Q456577}} - a pretty historic town on a bay. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Nampula]]|wikidata=Q323801}} - an industrial city in the north and capital of Nampula Province. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pemba]]|wikidata=Q498048}} - in Northern Mozambique, a popular holiday destination for Mozambicans, although its isolation has kept it off the tourist route for most European visitors. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chimoio]]|wikidata=Q498048}} - in Central Mozambique, capital of Manica Province, point of departure to visit Chimanimani National Park and Mount Binga (tallest peak in Mozambique), transitional point to Zimbabwe and Malawi. ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Bazaruto Archipelago]]|wikidata=Q2860206}} &mdash; a beautiful island resort and underwater marine park with great diving, geared to high-end tourism. * {{marker|name=[[Cahora Bassa]]|wikidata=Q755015}} dam &mdash; hydro-electric dam on the Zambezi river and the second largest man-made lake in Africa. * {{marker|name=[[Gorongosa National Park]]|wikidata=Q113952}} * {{marker|name=[[Ilha de Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q331099}} &mdash; Former colonial capital with a historical heritage that's among the most well kept in Mozambique, and indeed in all of Africa. A [[UNESCO World Heritage site]] since 1991. * {{marker|name=[[Limpopo National Park]]|wikidata=Q1968897}} * {{marker|name=[[Ponta d'Ouro]]|wikidata=Q2043834}} &mdash; a great dive spot, more easily accessible from South Africa than from Maputo. * {{marker|name=[[Quirimbas Islands|Quirimbas Archipelago and National Park]]|wikidata=Q1546990}} &mdash; at the north of the country, a scenic and secluded holiday destination off the beaten track with lush African bush on the mainland and white sand beaches/crystal blue water in the Archipelago and on the coast. Accessible through [[Pemba]]. * {{marker|name=[[Tofo Beach]]|wikidata=Q3530336}} &mdash; a backpacker haven on the coastline east of Inhambane with excellent diving. And whalesharks!! * {{marker|name=[[Vilanculos]]|wikidata=Q2006546}} /Vilankulo &mdash; a popular holiday destination and gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMozambique.png}} ===Geography=== Mozambique stretches for 1,535 mi (2,470 km) along Africa's southeast coast. It is nearly twice the size of California. Tanzania is to the north; Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe to the west; and South Africa and Eswatini to the south. The country is generally a low-lying plateau broken up by 25 sizable rivers that flow into the Indian Ocean. The largest is the Zambezi, which provides access to central Africa. In the interior, several chains of mountains form the backbone of the country. ===History=== [[File:Fortaleza de São Sebastião-01.jpg|thumb|Fortaleza de São Sebastião, [[Ilha de Mozambique]], among the oldest surviving European buildings in the Southern Hemisphere]] Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama reached Mozambique in 1498, as a waypoint on the [[Cape Route]] to [[India]]. In 1500, the Portuguese established a string of forts and posts up and down the coast, starting with present day ''Ilha de Moçambique'' or Mozambique Island (at that time simply known as Mozambique and where the country gets its modern name), where the Portuguese plied the spice and slave routes from Mozambique up until 1891. After [[World War I]], Portuguese investment in commercial, industrial, agricultural, educational, transportation, and health care infrastructure for the indigenous population started providing for better social and economic possibilities and these continued to gain pace up until independence in 1975. In 1962, several anti-colonial political groups formed the Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO), which initiated an armed campaign against Portuguese colonial rule. Mozambique became independent after ten years of sporadic warfare on June 25, 1975. FRELIMO took complete control of the territory after a transition period and within a year of independence, almost all the Portuguese colonists had left Mozambique – some expelled by the new government of Mozambique, some fleeing in fear. Upon independence, Mozambique had fewer than 5 engineers in the entire country and the previous colonial infrastructure investments stopped entirely resulting in the rapid disintegration of much of Mozambique's infrastructure. FRELIMO responded to their lack of resources and the Cold War politics of the mid-1970s by moving into alignment with the Soviet Union and its allies. FRELIMO established a one-party Socialist state, and quickly received substantial international aid from Cuba and the Soviet bloc nations. In 1975, the Mozambican National Resistance (RENAMO), an anti-communist group sponsored by the Rhodesian Intelligence Service, the apartheid government in South Africa and the United States after Zimbabwe's independence, was founded and launched a series of attacks on transport routes, schools and health clinics, and the country descended into civil war; see also [[20th-century South Africa]]. In 1990, with apartheid crumbling in South Africa, and support for RENAMO drying up in South Africa and in the United States, the first direct talks between the FRELIMO government and Renamo were held. In November 1990, a new constitution was adopted. Mozambique was now a multiparty state, with periodic elections, and guaranteed democratic rights. With the signing of the Rome General Peace Accords, the civil war ended on October 15, 1992. ===Climate=== {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = 30 | febhigh = 30 | marhigh = 30 | aprhigh = 29 | mayhigh = 27 | junhigh = 25 | julhigh = 25 | aughigh = 26 | sephigh = 27 | octhigh = 28 | novhigh = 29 | dechigh = 30 | janlow = 22 | feblow = 22 | marlow = 21 | aprlow = 19 | maylow = 16 | junlow = 14 | jullow = 14 | auglow = 15 | seplow = 16 | octlow = 18 | novlow = 20 | declow = 21 | janprecip = 130 | febprecip = 124 | marprecip = 97 | aprprecip = 64 | mayprecip = 28 | junprecip = 27 | julprecip = 13 | augprecip = 13 | sepprecip = 38 | octprecip = 46 | novprecip = 86 | decprecip = 103 }} Almost all of Mozambique is within the tropics, so Mozambique features a mostly tropical climate. Along the coast Mozambique has a warm, tropical climate. Evenings are rarely cold, except for a few nights in June and July and the rainfall isn't too high. In summer, temperatures can soar and the humidity levels rise. Temperatures are typically higher in the north, around Pemba, and around the Zambezi. The interior plains generally have a higher temperature than that of the coast and have higher rainfall throughout the year. The mountainous regions generally remain cool throughout the year. For up-to date weather forecasts and tide tables visit http://www.climateandweather.com/weather-in-mozambique{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ===Public holidays=== [[File:Church in Monapo, Mozambique.jpg|thumb|Church in Monapo]] The public holidays in Mozambique are: * '''1 January''' New Year's Day. * '''3 February''' Heroes' Day. * '''7 April''' Woman's Day. * '''1 May''' Workers' Day. * '''25 June''' Independence Day. * '''7 September''' Lusaka Agreement Day. * '''25 September''' Armed Forces Day. * '''4 October''' Peace Day. * '''25 December''' Family Day. ===Smoking=== Smoking in all public places was banned in Mozambique in 2007. However, many restaurants and bars have ignored this ban as it is almost entirely unenforced. ===People=== The '''Makua''' is the largest ethnic group that dominate in the northern part of Mozambique. the '''Sena''' and '''Ndau''' in the Zambezi valley, and the '''Shangaan''' dominate in the southern part of Mozambique. ==Get in== As it is impossible to exchange meticais outside of Mozambique it is advisable to change a small amount of currency if arriving at a land border in mid to late afternoon to cover taxis and meals for the first night, currency exchanges generally close at 18:00 and due to sporadic ATM failures access to currency is by no means guaranteed out of hours. When accepted by merchants foreign currency has an extremely poor exchange rate. ===Visas and border fees=== [[File:Visa policy of Mozambique.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Mozambique, with countries in green having visa-free access. Countries in yellow having visa on arrival]] [[File:Giriyondo Border Post South Africa Mozambique (5132904810).jpg|thumb|Giriyondo border post in Kruger National Park (border with South Africa)]] All visitors (except citizens of Angola, Eswatini, South Africa, Tanzania, Botswana, Malawi, Mauritius, Zambia and Zimbabwe) require a visa, which can now be obtained on arrival at most major entry points including Maputo Airport, the Port of Maputo, Ressano Garcia, Goba, Ponto D'ouro, Giriyondo, Vilanculos Airport, Inhambane Airport, Beira Airport, Pemba Airport and Nampula Airport. The cost of receiving the tourist visa on arrival is US$95 as of January 2024, with no additional documentation required (at least at Maputo Airport). They ask for printed Hotel booking at Eswatini border posts. South Africa's currency is accepted, the officers will not provide change though. Land borders may also charge a stamping fee on entry, which is generally US$2, but is often waived if you buy your visa at the border. In addition, you must use the visa forms provided at the consulate or border as self-printed versions will not be accepted; at borders, these are free, but Mozambican embassies/consulates generally charge US$1 for the form. A '''tourist visa''' is valid for 90 days after issue and permits a 30-day stay. It can be extended by a further 30 days at immigration offices in provincial capitals. There is a US$100 a day fine for overstaying a visa. ===By plane=== Most international flights arrive from [[South Africa]], although direct international routes also exist between Mozambique and [[Zimbabwe]], [[Tanzania]], [[Kenya]], [[Portugal]], [[Qatar]], [[Istanbul]], and [[Addis Ababa]]. There are several flights daily from [[Johannesburg]] to [[Maputo]], operated by [http://www.flysaa.com South African Airways (SAA)] and the Mozambican flag-carrier [http://www.lam.co.mz Linhas Aereas de Moçambique (LAM)]. [http://www.fedair.com/ Federal Air] fly daily direct to Vilanculos International airport. Other airlines that fly to the country include Airlinkk, Qatar airways, Turkish airlines, Ethiopian airlines, Malawi airlines, [http://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways], and [http://www.tap.pt TAP Portugal]. There are also several flights during the week from Johannesburg, [[Dar es Salaam]], and [[Nairobi]] to [[Pemba]] in the north, operated by either South African Airlink (SAA) or LAM. If you make a telephone booking with LAM and will not be paying for your flight until check-in you must reconfirm the flight 72 hours before departure or they are liable to cancel it. After checking in you need to get a tax stamp on your boarding card. For internal flights the tax is 200 MT and for international flights 500 MT to be paid in cash. ===By train=== The railways in Mozambique are in poor shape and mainly used for freight; however, there are some opportunities for the intrepid traveller to travel by train. While there are no international connections per se, some border cities have rail connections. There are three train lines: one is in the far north of the country, travelling from [[Nampula]] to [[Cuamba]] near the [[Malawi]]an border; another runs from [[Maputo]] to [[Chicualacuala]] at the border with Zimbabwe; and the last one connects Maputo with the border to [[South Africa]]. ==== From Malawi==== This line connects [[Nampula]] with [[Cuamba]] (near the Malawi border). The train carries first, second and third-class passengers and is usually packed. From Nampula, the train leaves around 05:00-06:00, although you should arrive earlier to buy tickets from the booking office at the station. The area is packed with people traveling towards Malawi so expect queues. Once on board the journey is long and slow but fairly efficient and will get to Cuamba mid-afternoon. From here ''chapas'' will take you to the border (Entre Lagos) as only freight trains use this bit of the line. Even hardened African travelers will likely find this stretch of road very rough: expect it to take a fair amount of time. Once at Entre Lagos, the border formalities are in the station building (easy to find as the town is a typical small border town). The process can take some time as this is a little-used crossing. From here it is about a 1-km walk to the Malawi side of the border. The Malawi border closes before the Mozambique one, although there is a guesthouse if you get trapped. The easiest way to get from here to Liwonde is by train - sweet-talk the guards and they may let you share their compartment. ==== From South Africa ==== There are daily trains to [[Maputo]] from the border town of [[Ressano Garcia]] and the Lebombo border crossing. [[Komatipoort]], located just across the border in [[South Africa]] sees multiple trains from [[Johannesburg]] and [[Pretoria]] every week. ==== From Zimbabwe ==== A train runs from [[Bulawayo]] to the border town of Chicualacuala, where there is a connecting train to Maputo. ===By car=== In order to enter Mozambique by car you will need the original registration documents and if it is not your vehicle a letter from the owner granting permission to take the vehicle in to Mozambique. All foreign vehicles are required to have third party insurance, which is available at many borders for 150 South African rand, and also to pay road tax which of 26.50 MT. ====From South Africa==== * {{listing | name=Johannesburg (Lebombo/Ressano Garcia) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=N4 towards Mbombela, follow it until you reach the border just after Komatipoort | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open 06:00-19:00 (occasionally open 24 hours during busy periods) | price= | content=On the Mozambican side follow the EN4 for a further 100 km to reach Maputo. The stretch of the EN4 after the border leading up to the border has two toll stations that can be paid in US dollars, euros, South African rand or meticales. Change is provided in meticais. }} * {{listing | name=Kruger Park (Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Enter Kruger Park from Phalaborwa Gate and follow the signs for 95km to the Giriyondo Border Post. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open Apr-Sep 08:00 to 15:00, and Oct-Mar 08:00 to 16:00 | price= | content='''Caution 4WD only.''' On entering Mozambique you will be charged a conservation fee for entering Parque Nacional do Limpopo which is 200 MT/R67/USD10 per person and per vehicle. You do not need 3rd party insurance unless you exit Parque Nacional do Limpopo but this can be purchased at the park exit gate to Massingir. }} * {{listing | name=Kosi Bay | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Follow the R22 from Kosi Bay to the Mozambique border (signed as Ponta d'Ouro) and then take the right road as you leave the border then keep left until Ponta d'Ouro | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 07:30 to 17:30 | price= | content=The Kosi Bay Border is 630 km from Joburg or 460 km from Durban and is open 7 days a week. It closes at 17:00 (Google has this as 16:00, and some people are told it is 18:00). It borders the Ponta do Ouro border post in Mozambique 'Caution 4WD only'. Due to the use of seasonal dirt roads after the border it is advisable to use a GPS route provided by someone who has recently completed the journey. Access to Maputo used to be via a ferry service (R45) in Catembe. The new Maputo-Katembe Bridge linking KwaZulu-Natal and Mozambique, which at 3,041 m is the longest suspension bridge in Africa, reduces the travel time between Kosi Bay (on the KZN border) & Maputo from six hours to just 90 minutes. It opens up into the Mozambican National Park which has many speed bumps and changing speed zones which you need to be cognisant of if you want to avoid being stopped or fine }} ====From Eswatini==== * {{listing | name=Mhlumeni | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:00-18:00 | price= | content=Easily one the quietest and easiest of all the Mozambique borders to pass through, it is deserted most of the time. Getting a visa and 3rd party insurance at this border can be problematic so arrange ahead of time. If coming from Johannesburg and traveling over the weekend or during South African holidays you can expect to save at least an hour transiting via Eswatini to this border compared to using Ressano Garcia. }} * {{listing | name=Namaacha | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:00-20:00 | price= | content=The busier of the two Eswatini/Mozambique border posts and is very busy over weekend and holiday periods. }} ===By bus=== [[File:Public transport Muidumbe - Mueda (7660759658).jpg|thumb|Public transport in the north of the country]] ====From Malawi==== There are a number of border crossings to/from Malawi. By far the easiest and most frequently plied is at [[Zobue|Zóbuè]]. The road is in good condition. Daily ''chapas'' run to/from [[Tete]] to the border, where you will have to walk about 300 m to get to Malawian transport. Daily through buses from [[Chimoio]] and [[Beira]] also use this crossing. There is another border crossing to the north, at [[Dedza]], which may be more convenient for [[Lilongwe]] but the public transport on either side can be sporadic. To leave/enter Malawi to the east, there are two crossings, [[Milange]] and [[Mandimba]]. Milange is in the south-east of Malawi, and to get there you need to catch one of the daily vehicles that run between [[Mocuba]] and Milange. At Milange there is a 2-km walk to the border, and then another 1km to where Malawian transport leaves. Mandimba is further north, used mainly to get to Malawi from [[Lichinga]]. Several vehicles run daily between Lichinga and Mandimba, from where it is another 7 km to the border. Hitching is relatively easy, or bicycle-taxis do the trip for about US$1. It is also possible to cross the Lake - see [[#By boat]] below. ====From South Africa==== You can take the '''[http://www.intercape.co.za/ Intercape Mainliner]''', {{phone|+27 861 287 287}}, from [[Johannesburg]] to [[Maputo]]. These buses run in both directions on a regular basis, one in the morning, and another overnight, and are safe and affordable. Other carriers include '''[http://www.greyhound.co.za Greyhound]''' and '''[http://www.translux.co.za Translux]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. If you intend on obtaining a visa at the border you should only purchase a ticket as far as the border, bus companies will not permit you to board with a ticket to Maputo if you are not in possession of a visa. If you ask the bus conductor they will help you obtain a visa at the border and avoid the usually extremely long wait at the Mozambique side. Once through immigration either re board the bus and pay the fare to Maputo on board or pick up a minibus taxi to Maputo from the border. Three times per week there are bus connections to and from [[Durban]] (via [[Big Bend (Eswatini)|Big Bend]], [[Eswatini]]). There is also a service from [[Mbombela]] and [[Komatipoort]] to Maputo. There are the "taxis" to and from any destination in South Africa at affordable prices from 04:00 to 00:00. ====From Eswatini==== Chapas leave from both [[Manzini]] and [[Mbabane]] to Maputo via Goba typically around 11:00. Usefully they arrive in to Baixa (and can drop you at 24 de Julho) so you are within walking distance of both Fatima's and Base. The fare is R150 as of January 2024. ====From Tanzania==== The border between Mozambique and Tanzania is formed by the River Rovuma. Daily pick-ups connect [[Moçimboa da Praia]] with [[Palma]] and [[Namiranga]], the border post on the Mozambique side. The main route runs from [[Moçimboa da Praia]] (on the Mozambiquan side), via [[Palma]] (Mozambique), to [[Mtwara]] (on the Tanzanian side) and vice versa. It is recommended to take 2 days over this trip due to the low quality of the roads on the Mozambique side, and the low level of traffic. When coming from Tanzania, lifts depart from [[Mtwara]] and [[Kilambo]] to the Rovuma river. Kilambo is a small place with one road running through it, so lifts should be easy to find. Mtwara is much larger however, so ask the locals where and when lifts leave from. When coming from Mozambique, your lift to the river will normally start from either Palma (more likely), or - if you're lucky - [[Moçimboa da Praia]] and go to the border post at Namiranga. It will generally wait for you to have your passport stamped at the border post (a mud hut in Namiranga). During the wet season, your lift will then probably drive to the banks of the Rovuma. During the dry season it will drive you to the end of the road, from which there is a walk of between 1 and 2 km (depending on the water level that day) to the Rovuma river. There is an unreliable ferry that goes across the river. Typically however, the crossing is done by dugout canoes or slightly larger wooden motorboats. The trip across the river shouldn't cost more than around US$8, but can only normally be paid for using Tanzanian shillings, although if you find yourself without these, there are plenty of locals who will offer you "generous" exchange rates for your hard-earned Dollars and Meticais. If water levels are low you may have to wade to get to and from your boat on the Tanzanian side, so possessing a heavy-duty waterproof sack may be a good idea, but it is by no means essential. On the Tanzanian side you will often find yourself mobbed by people offering you transport. Pick-pocketing is common on both sides of the river, so care must be taken whilst finding transport to the nearby towns, a good method of reducing your trouble is to befriend a local on the boatride over, you will find most of your fellow travellers are willing to help you in one way or another. Transport then carries you on to the Tanzanian border post at Kilambo, and normally, further on to Mtwara, the capital of Southern Tanzania. For further information and up-to-date news on this crossing, go to "Russell's Place" (also known as Cashew Camp) in Pemba. There are other crossings to Tanzania, but these all require long walks. Ask around for local information. ====From Zambia==== The main crossing is at [[Cassacatiza]], north-west of [[Tete]]. This border is in good condition, but lightly traveled. Daily chapas run between Tete and Matema, from there the public transport is sporadic. The best way to travel from Mozambique to Zambia is to go via Malawi. ====From Zimbabwe==== There are two crossings - [[Nyamapanda]] (south-west of [[Tete]]), and [[Machipanda]] (west of [[Chimoio]]). Both are heavily traveled, especially Machipanda due to its location at the end of the Beira Corridor. ===By boat=== [[File:Mozambique Island Bridge.jpg|thumb|Bridge to Ilha de Mozambique]] There is no scheduled sea travel to and from Mozambique. ====Tanzania==== Outside of monsoon season it may be possible to hire a dhow from [[Tanzania]] down to Mozambique but this will generally be extremely expensive. The Tanzanian ports of [[Mikindani]], [[Mtwara]] and [[Msimbati]] are all within range of Mozambique and will be the best places to secure dhow transport. In reverse the ports of [[Moçimboa da Praia]] and [[Palma]] are the two best ports on the Mozambique side to find a dhow to Tanzania. ====Malawi==== The MV Ilala operates across [[Lake Malawi]] from [[Monkey Bay]], [[Chilumba]], [[Nkhata Bay]] to [[Likoma Island]]. From [[Likoma Island]] it is a 3-km boat ride to the Mozambique border at [[Cobue]]. It is possible to travel across Lake Niassa (Lake Malawi), though international travelers must legally enter through a border post and have the appropriate documentation (visas, etc. depending on nationality). Once on the Mozambique side, local transport would need to be arranged. Taking the Ilala ferry is certainly a once in a lifetime experience. Sleeping on the upper deck of this second world war ferry and watching the sunrise over far rolling hills along the Mozambican and Malawian coast is breath taking. You can enter the ferry from any of the harbors where the ferry arrives. IF you plan to travel on to Malawi, you should get on the ferry at the harbor in Metangula. ==Get around== ===By car=== Traffic is left-handed, cars are often in poor conditio, and drivers may not know or respect traffic rules. Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs is common, especially at night and on weekends. Driving after dark outside the city is not recommended. Keep car windows closed and doors locked, especially when stopping at intersections. Driving can lead to being stopped by the police for bribes. There have also been cases of carjacking. It is not a good idea to pick up strangers.[[File:Estrada Nacional EN12 (5983637047).jpg|thumb|EN12 highway]] The EN1 runs the length of the country generally staying close to the coast from Maputo up. Roads throughout the country are generally in poor condition, especially when compared to South Africa, although the stretch of the EN1 between Maputo and Inchope is in decent condition with the exception of the 120 km directly north of Vilankulo and the last 100 km south of Inchope which are still in decrepit condition and pose a serious challenge to any driver in a low clearance vehicle. The EN1 from Mocuba to Nampula and further to Ilha de Moçambique is in good condition. The EN6 between the Machipanda border crossing with Zimbabwe and Inchope is in good condition, but deteriorates considerably between Inchope and Beira, becoming almost impassable at points. North of Vilankulo service stations are scarce - motorists may go 150 km between service stations so fill up at every opportunity. South African company [https://bushlore.com Bushlore] rents 4x4 vehicles and campers and will facilitate cross-border trips with flexible pick-ups and drop-offs. ===Chapas and buses=== '''Buses''' and '''chapas''' leave early in Mozambique: 04:00 is not unusual, particularly as you go further north. Chapas take the form of both mini & midi buses but often pick up trucks and cargo trucks will offer a ride for the same fare as a chapa. Government and privately owned buses ply the same routes as Chapas but typically stop a great deal more often so are inadvisable for anything other than short journeys. The chapas themselves, particularly on shorter routes, are generally in shockingly poor condition. Expect seats, doors and interiors falling apart. The Mozambican government regulates prices on key routes which means chapa travel in Mozambique is extremely good value. In larger cities this translates to signs with destinations and prices in chapa stations (EG - Junta in Maputo), these prices will not come down no matter how hard you negotiate but many an enterprising chapa conductor/navigator/bouncer will try to extort you if you are silly enough to ask what a price is. If in doubt ask at your hotel, a local or as a last resort simply hand them a large note; often they will assume you know the correct fare and give you the correct change. There are government registered chapas and unregistered chapas. While both are unsafe and are in many accidents each year, always take the government chapas. These can be recognized by being the large buses. These buses are newer and thus slightly safer. They cost slightly more (at the time this was written they were 10 MT a journey, and unregistered were 5). Unregistered chapas though are extremely dangerous and overcrowded and should never be used if you can help it. ===Taxis=== Once only found in [[Maputo]] taxis can now be found in many cities throughout the country. They never have meters so you must negotiate regarding cost before your journey. Taxis are often in as perilous condition as chapas (from balding tires to someone sitting in the passenger seat holding a plastic gas can with the cars fuel line going in to it) and breakdowns should be considered likely. Never pay for your journey until you reach your destination. If you are female, never take a taxi alone, especially not one found on the side of the road. If you must, ask around for the number of a trusted taxi driver who will come pick you up and can usually be there in under half an hour depending on how far away they are. Always add ten minutes or more to how long they say they will take to collect you though. In Maputo there is a flat rate of 200 MT for any journey in the city center. Longer journeys (EG to Junta) cost 400 MT and up. In the early morning they will often attempt to gouge you, doubling the price to 400 MT, as there are often very few taxis about at this time. Chapas can also be rented as taxis but are typically more expensive and far less comfortable. ===Air=== Domestic '''flights''' are the fastest and most sane way to get around the country if you can afford it. [http://www.lam.co.mz Linhas Aereas de Moçambique] flies between the major cities. The flights themselves are actually on extremely modern, clean and well maintained planes and are a stark contrast to the other transport options in the country. However, be warned that all airlines from the country including LAM are listed on the [http://ec.europa.eu/transport/modes/air/safety/air-ban/doc/list_en.pdf EU air safety list] as of June 2015 and are therefore banned from operating in the European airspace. LAM operate an old style booking system where you can reserve a flight over the telephone and then pay for it on check in. If you do use this facility ensure that you confirm your flight 72 hours before departure or your reservation will likely be canceled. Alternatively all LAM offices in towns and airports can book and receive payment for flights throughout the country. It is not advisable to pay using credit card due to the level of corruption present in all state enterprises including LAM. ===Rail=== '''Trains''' aren't really very useful, considering there's only one and it's in the far north of the country traveling from [[Nampula]] to [[Cuamba]] near the [[Malawi]]an border. See ''get in'' above for more details. Mine clearance from the old coastal railway running the length of the country has been finished in many areas but with the costs involved and the level of corruption in the country it will be decades before any rail service with reasonable coverage arrives in the country. ==Talk== The official language of Mozambique is [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]], though many people speak English in the capital Maputo and in touristy areas. The further north you travel the less likely you are to encounter English speakers, and as you enter more rural areas even Portuguese is limited. Mozambicans speak standard Portuguese (European Portuguese), and it is spoken as a lingua franca or second language of speakers of various native languages. [[Swahili phrasebook|Swahili]] is useful in the far north of the country as you get close to Tanzania, especially along the coast, and [[Nyanja phrasebook|Nyanja]] is spoken near the border with Malawi and Zambia. Some native words from the Shona language can be useful if you are traveling near Cabora Bassa. ==See== [[File:Maputo-aerial.jpg|thumb|Maputo]] * [[Ilha de Mozambique]], i.e. Mozambique Island is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mozambique. The island boasts colonial architecture including probably the oldest European building in the Southern Hemisphere and beaches. * The historic town of [[Inhambane]]. * Sites from the civil war all over the country and the Museum of Revolution in [[Maputo]] to learn more about recent events in the country's history * Wildlife and nature in [[Gorongosa National Park]]. ==Do== * '''Dive''', see [[Diving in Mozambique]] for details. * '''Tours and Safaris''', a number of tour operators can help you reach Mozambique's highlights. The most reputable as per guide books Lonely Planet and Bradt are Mozaic Travel [http://www.mozaictravel.com]{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Dana Tours in the south, and Kaskazini in the north. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mozambican meticais | currencyCode=MT | date=January 2025 | USD=64 | EUR=75 | GBP=79 | ZAR=3.4 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mzn-mozambican-metical XE.com] }} The currency of Mozambique is the '''new metical''' (plural ''meticais'', pronounced 'meta-caysh'), denoted by the symbol "'''MT'''" (ISO code: '''MZN'''). It may also be called ''Meticais Nova Família''. It is notionally divided into 100 centavos. Three zeroes were dropped from the currency in 2006. Old currency can no longer be exchanged at banks. People will occasionally still refer to the old currency, so if someone asks for "1 million", they generally mean one thousand new meticais. Coins of Mozambique are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 centavos, 1, 2, 5 and 10 meticais. Banknotes of Mozambique are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 meticais. Many businesses in the tourist centers are run by [[South Africa]]ns and prices are often quoted in rand (for which the usual abbreviation is ZAR). In this guide prices are also quoted in rand when applicable. US dollars, rand, British pounds and Euros are freely convertible at commercial rates at any bank or exchange. Other currencies such as Canadian or Australian dollars or Japanese yen, are not accepted anywhere, even at official banks and exchanges. There is very little black market currency exchange, since the commercial exchanges offer the best market rate. You cannot exchange meticais outside Mozambique, but you can convert them back at exchanges prior to leaving the country. Also you cannot buy meticais outside Moçambique. '''ATMs''' are present throughout the country; '''BCI, Standard Bank''', '''Eco Bank''', '''Millennium BIM''' are the banks you are most likely to run in to. BCI, Standard and Eco Bank accepts Visa & MasterCard, Millennium accepts all international cards including Maestro/Cirrus cards. ATMs have transaction limits on withdrawals, which vary with the bank. Millennium bank limits withdrawals to 3,000 MT, and Standard Bank and Eco Bank to 10,000 MT; you can always insert your card again to withdraw more money. BCI and Ecobank atms have no withdraw fee for overseas cards. ===Shopping=== Everything in Mozambique that does not have a price attached can be bargained down to whatever you consider a reasonable price to be. Remember that while laughing when they give you an insane price is perfectly OK you should not get outwardly angry or hostile, you will be unlikely to get a reasonable price if you do. If in doubt about what a fair price is ask your hotel. No one in Mozambique, including often backpacker lodges, have change. The 1000 MT and 500 MT are almost impossible to use day to day, so change them down in to more manageable notes in any bank. The one exception to this rule is chapa drivers, if you find yourself running low on small bills pay for your 15 MT fare with a 100 MT note. ==Eat== [[File:Lobster night.jpg|thumb|Lobsters!]] As a country the [[Portugal|Portuguese ]]<nowiki/>occupation has a profound impact on local foods that has produced some of the most unique and interesting cuisine within Southern Africa. Towards the coast a great deal of seafood is used within even the most basic of dishes, however, in land the maize based partridges common throughout Africa becomes staple but with some Portuguese flair. * '''Piri-Piri''', also known as the '''African bird's-eye chili''' this extremely strong chili is common in sauce form throughout the country. * '''Pãozinho ''', also known as '''Portuguese rolls''' or '''Prego (beef) no pão and bifana (fried pork) '''. A floury and often semi-sweet bread roll, typically served with meat in the center. * '''Matapa''', a seafood (clam, crab or prawn) stew made with cassava leaves and generally served over rice. This is one of the Mozambique staples. * '''Camarão National''', are Mozambican prawns marinaded in a Piri-Piri, garlic, onion, lemon and vinegar. * '''Cray fish''' and '''other seafood'''. These are caught off the beach throughout the country and will generally be prepared with a piri-piri marinade, served with rice and matapa. * '''Kakana''' This is a bitter tasting local vegetable. ==Drink== <!--DO NOT add any bar or club listings to the country article. They belong in the relevant city article---> All tap water in Mozambique should be assumed to be unsafe to drink, even if it is not harmful it usually has some sediment that your stomach will not be used to. Most western oriented lodgings either provide a fresh water source or sell bottled water. ===Beer=== In Mozambique '''Cervejas de Mocambique''' have a virtual monopoly on beer brewing. The three most popular brands are 2M (remember to pronounce it doysh-em or you will end up with an extra beer), Laurentina Clara and Manica. Other local African beers such as Castle and Windhoek are reasonably widely available but are not as popular as in neighboring countries due to the high quality of the local brews. ===Liquors=== Locally produced spirits such as vodka and gin are relatively common throughout the country and are relatively inexpensive. The local drink is Cashu made of the peel from the cashew nut. According to the locals it's very good for a man's libido. It has a sour taste. Many chain and local supermarkets do not sell alcohol in Mozambique: you will need to find a specific liquor store close by. <!--DO NOT add any bar or club listings to the country article. They belong in the relevant city article---> ==Sleep== Accommodation ranges from inexpensive guesthouses and backpacker-oriented accommodation through to some of the most expensive resort accommodation in the region. [[File:Un bungalow - 2012-06-13 - 75154600.jpg|thumb|Bungalow]] ===Hotels=== Hotels in Mozambique are generally ungraded and, particularly in the less traveled parts of the country, have not been updated since independence. In some cases you can pay up to $50USD a night for a hotel room that should be in the US$5–10 range based on facilities. On the other end of the scale Mozambique hosts some of the most incredible, and expensive, hotels and resorts in the world. ===Backpacker lodges=== [[Maputo]], [[Tofo Beach]], [[Vilanculos]], [[Chimoio]] and [[Pemba]] have backpacker lodges and are geared up for the budget traveler. There are some backpacker options elsewhere in the country but often the only option for a budget traveler will be transient labor guesthouses or cheap hotels. ===Self-catering=== In most major tourist areas many self-catering options exist. If you do bring your own gas based cooking equipment, keep in mind that the typical backpacker Lindal valve gas canisters are not available anywhere in the country. ===Camping and caravaning=== Dedicated camp sites with security are available in almost all coastal towns and you can often camp in rural areas with a village chief's blessing (If you do decide to use this option a small offering such as food, liquor or cigarettes can be very useful). If taking a caravan keep in mind that a great deal of roads in Mozambique degenerate in to sandy paths that require 4WD, it is advisable to only stick to popular areas along the EN1. ===Purchasing land or property=== If someone offers to "sell" you land in Mozambique walk away immediately, it is a scam. Private ownership of land in Mozambique is impossible, all land is owned by the government and will only be provided for foreign use, under a 99-year lease, under very specific circumstances. ==Learn== * '''Universidade Eduardo Mondlane''', [http://www.uem.mz] is the oldest and largest university in the country. ==Work== * You may be able to find work '''teaching''' at a school such as The American International School of Mozambique [http://www.aism-moz.com/?Page=Employment]. * If you're a certified divemaster or instructor you could try helping out at one of the '''dive shops''' in [[Tofo Beach]], [[Vilanculos]] or [[Ponta d'Ouro]]. ==Stay safe== [[File:Lighthouse (8541084669).jpg|thumb|Lighthouse in Beira]] Risks are much the same as many other countries in Africa (and significantly less than some, including parts of South Africa). Nevertheless muggings, robberies, rape and murder do occur, so the normal precautions should be taken. Women absolutely should never walk alone on beaches. Attacks on women have grown in tourist areas. In particular it's worth checking with local hostels and other tourists as to where dangerous areas are. But in general the Mozambican people are extremely warm and friendly and you will encounter far less hassle than in almost all of the countries surrounding it. ===Police=== In Mozambique the police do not exist to help you, only to try and extort money from you. Do not trust them under any circumstances. Insisting on being taken to a police station is unlikely to improve your situation, with the exception of in Maputo, the police have been known to rob tourists blind and throw them in a cell. Instead mention contacting your embassy or the anti-corruption hot line to verify a fine and always ask for a receipt. If you have cause to go to a police station (''e.g.'', filing a police report for insurance purposes after a theft), do not take any valuables or excessive currency with you and try to ''always'' go with someone else. '''At airports:''' While airport security personnel typically prioritize ensuring the safety of passengers and aircraft, there have been reported cases of opportunistic individuals taking advantage of their position to pilfer travelers' belongings, including cash, credit cards, and other valuables. To minimize the risk of becoming a victim of such theft, it's crucial to adopt precautionary measures. # Travel with a minimum of cash: Only carry the amount of cash you'll need for immediate expenses, such as transportation, meals, and incidentals. # Employ travel cards instead of cash: Travel cards, including credit cards and debit cards, offer greater protection than cash. They're linked to your bank account and can be used to make purchases and withdraw cash from ATMs. However, inform your bank of your travel itinerary beforehand to prevent your card from being flagged for suspicious activity. # Explore digital payment methods: Mobile wallets and other digital payment methods are becoming increasingly popular and convenient for travelers. These methods allow for contactless payments without the need to carry cash or cards. # Stay vigilant: Maintain constant vigilance over your belongings. ====Speed limits==== In Mozambique the speed limit in town is 60 km/h (unless there are road signs to the contrary ) and 100 km/h elsewhere. There are mobile speed traps on the EN1 which specifically target foreign visitors. ====Bribery==== When dealing with the Mozambican police never suggest a bribe, simply listen to whatever lecture they care to give and ask "What can we do about this?" Often they will simply let you go, if they do ask for a bribe the amount is entirely negotiable and can range from a bottle of coke (carrying no identification) through to several hundred US dollars (minor drug infractions). ====Identification==== By law you must carry a form of identification with you at all times and present it to the police on request. As a result you should always carry a notarized copy of your passport photo page, visa and entry stamp with you at all times. Ask your hotel where to locate a notary or contact your local embassy as soon as you enter the country. In Maputo, there is one on Av. Lenine, close to Mimmo's, and another on Av. Armando Tivane (one block west of Av. Nyerere) between Av. Mao Tse-Tung and Av. 24 de Julho. They are not particularly easy to find, ask around. If you are asked for identification by the police and you do not have a notarized copy under no circumstances give them your passport, if you do then it will likely cost you a great deal of money to get it back; often simply talking to them a while will get them to go away. ===Land mines=== While most of the country has been cleared there is still an on-going risk in rural areas away from the EN1 in Sofala, Tete, Manica, Gaza, Inhambane and Maputo provinces. Only 2 or 3 incidents a year occur with landmines and they are all well outside the tourist trail. ==Stay healthy== * '''Malarial prophylaxis''' is essential in all parts of Mozambique. Chloroquine/Paludrine are now as ineffective as in other parts of east Africa, and it's worth going to see your doctor to get decent protection. If you are in country and suspect you have malaria there are clinics in every town that will administer a test for approximately 50 MT, the treatment also costs 50 MT if you have malaria. * '''Get all your vaccinations before arriving''' Medical facilities in Mozambique are now generally reasonably stocked, but it is always worth getting a range of vaccinations before you leave. Prevention is better than cure. It is worth considering carrying some clean needles/sterile set if you are visiting out of the way areas, purely as remote medical facilities may have problems getting hold of them. [[File:Nshima and mice.JPG|thumb|Mice, anyone?]] * '''Mind what you eat.''' As common in most countries in the world, if you are concerned about the standards of hygiene in a place, don't eat there. * '''Do not have unprotected sex.''' As in many parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, there is a very high HIV incidence, at 12.5% ([https://phia.icap.columbia.edu/countries/mozambique/#:~:text=The%20Mozambique%20PHIA%20survey%2C%20also,and%20interviewed%20over%2017%2C000%20participants. National HIV Survey, 2021]) * '''Do not drink tap water or use any ice.''' South of the Zambezi river that divides the country, Mozambique is much more developed, especially around Maputo, tourist areas such as Inhambane and the industrial city of Beira. Here, especially in built-up areas, it is safe to drink the tap water, hence water in this area is marketed as "mineral water" and not "drinking water" and is sold at an inflated price as a semi-luxury item (sometimes for as much as 50 or 60 MT in backpackers lodges and restaurants). The infrastructure in the north of the country is much less developed and, as such, caution must be exercised, especially in rural areas and the area near Palma and bordering Tanzania. The tap water is usually safe to drink in the main cities such as Nampula and Pemba, and on Mozambique Island. If you are ever unsure about the quality of the tap water, water-purifying liquids (normally chlorine-based) are widely available and very cheap, costing around 40 cents for a large bottle - the most popular brand is "Certeza" and it is easy to find. You could also consider bringing puri-tabs if you are planning on going well off the "beaten track". * '''Private clinics.''' There are a few private health clinics in Maputo that will also arrange repatriation in emergencies. Clinica da Sommerschield (tel: 21 493924) Clinica Suedoise (tel: 21 492922). *'''Electric showers'''. In any accommodation, check the shower fitting. A rather dangerous type manufactured in Brazil is popular: it contains an ungrounded 4 kW electric heater. Do not touch the fitting when in use, as they have been known to give severe electric shocks. Better still, switch the power off (there should be a nearby circuit breaker) and have a cold shower. Be similarly cautious with any other type of electrical shower heater. ==Connect== ===Mobile phones=== [https://movitel.co.mz/ '''Movitel'''] is becoming the most popular carrier in the country. There is also the South-African owned '''[https://www.vm.co.mz/ Vodacom Mozambique]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''Vodacom have 4G in many towns and GPRS Edge elsewhere. The APN is internet. Check your phone manual for setting instructions. The mCel service is not entirely reliable, especially outside Maputo. Vodacom is generally very good. Many Mozambicans think Movitel has the fastest internet, especially outside Maputo. While it is OK to buy credit from the hundreds of vendors roaming the streets wearing mCel or Vodacom shirts you should never buy SIM cards and starter packs, in many cases they sell them at hugely inflated prices and often they will be from one of the many recalled batches that no longer work. Any mobile phone store can sell you a working starter pack for around 50 MT. ===Internet=== Internet is widely available in Maputo, with many internet cafes and all major hotels having internet access. The cell phone providers - mCel, Vodacom, and Movitel - have introduced internet to cellphone and USB modems. See above for further information. Outside Maputo internet coverage is sporadic and mostly available in places frequented by tourists. Local Telecommunication de Mozambique (TDM) offices almost always have internet although speed and availability can be problematic. ===Radio=== There are many FM stations in Maputo, offering a variety of music and speech. Away from the capital, Radio Mozambique will be heard in many places and BBC World Service have their English/Portuguese service in the main cities. There are numerous small community radio stations serving smaller towns/villages. A new radio station called LM Radio (Lifetime Music Radio), broadcasts in English on 87.8 FM in Maputo and Matola. The radio station offers a wide range of music from the 1960s, 70s and 80s together with a blend of modern day music in the same style and flavor. The radio station also provides regular travel and safety tips for visitors to Mozambique. {{geo|-19|35|zoom=6}} {{isPartOf|Southern Africa}} {{outlinecountry}} {{related|African_National_Parks}} {{related|African_flora_and_fauna}} {{related|Discount_airlines_in_Africa}} 8d4ntbpar1qos67575vbsp9rvjsoy3h 5091335 5091333 2025-07-11T10:40:40Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091335 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Island of Mozambique banner Small boats.jpg|caption=Boats outside Ilha de Mozambique}} '''Mozambique''' (Portuguese: ''Moçambique'') is a country on the Indian Ocean coast of [[Southern Africa]]. From the Monte Binga peak, {{m|2,436}} high, to the stunning beaches along the coast, Mozambique is a country of contrasts. As well as some of the best colonial era architecture and relics to be found on the continent, Mozambique has also preserved its African cultural heritage, which can be experienced through art, music and food. Its eastern coastline along the Indian Ocean is more than 1,000 km long, a fantastic draw for scuba divers, fishermen, sailors and beach lovers. ==Regions== Mozambique has 10 provinces that can be grouped into the following three regions: {{Regionlist| regionmap=Mozambique regions.svg | regionmapsize=400px | region1name=[[Northern Mozambique]] | region1color=#71b37b | region1items= | region1description=Cabo Delgado, Nampula and Niassa provinces| region2name=[[Central Mozambique]] | region2color=#8a84a3 | region2items= | region2description=Manica, Sofala, Tete and Zambézia provinces| region4name=[[Southern Mozambique]] | region4color=#d09440 | region4items= | region4description=Gaza, Inhambane and Maputo provinces, and the Bazaruto National Sea Park| }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Northern Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q14227435}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#8a84a3|title=[[Central Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q14210533}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d09440|title=[[Southern Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q14234730}} ==Cities== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Maputo]]|wikidata=Q3889}} - the thriving capital in the far south of the country. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Beira]]|wikidata=Q211563}} - a busy port town and capital of Sofala Province. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ilha de Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q331099}} - a [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]] and the former capital under Portuguese rule. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Inhambane]]|wikidata=Q456577}} - a pretty historic town on a bay. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Nampula]]|wikidata=Q323801}} - an industrial city in the north and capital of Nampula Province. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pemba]]|wikidata=Q498048}} - in Northern Mozambique, a popular holiday destination for Mozambicans, although its isolation has kept it off the tourist route for most European visitors. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chimoio]]|wikidata=Q498048}} - in Central Mozambique, capital of Manica Province, point of departure to visit Chimanimani National Park and Mount Binga (tallest peak in Mozambique), transitional point to Zimbabwe and Malawi. ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Bazaruto Archipelago]]|wikidata=Q2860206}} &mdash; a beautiful island resort and underwater marine park with great diving, geared to high-end tourism. * {{marker|name=[[Cahora Bassa]]|wikidata=Q755015}} dam &mdash; hydro-electric dam on the Zambezi river and the second largest man-made lake in Africa. * {{marker|name=[[Gorongosa National Park]]|wikidata=Q113952}} * {{marker|name=[[Ilha de Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q331099}} &mdash; Former colonial capital with a historical heritage that's among the most well kept in Mozambique, and indeed in all of Africa. A [[UNESCO World Heritage site]] since 1991. * {{marker|name=[[Limpopo National Park]]|wikidata=Q1968897}} * {{marker|name=[[Ponta d'Ouro]]|wikidata=Q2043834}} &mdash; a great dive spot, more easily accessible from South Africa than from Maputo. * {{marker|name=[[Quirimbas Islands|Quirimbas Archipelago and National Park]]|wikidata=Q1546990}} &mdash; at the north of the country, a scenic and secluded holiday destination off the beaten track with lush African bush on the mainland and white sand beaches/crystal blue water in the Archipelago and on the coast. Accessible through [[Pemba]]. * {{marker|name=[[Tofo Beach]]|wikidata=Q3530336}} &mdash; a backpacker haven on the coastline east of Inhambane with excellent diving. And whalesharks!! * {{marker|name=[[Vilanculos]]|wikidata=Q2006546}} /Vilankulo &mdash; a popular holiday destination and gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMozambique.png}} ===Geography=== Mozambique stretches for 1,535 mi (2,470 km) along Africa's southeast coast. It is nearly twice the size of California. Tanzania is to the north; Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe to the west; and South Africa and Eswatini to the south. The country is generally a low-lying plateau broken up by 25 sizable rivers that flow into the Indian Ocean. The largest is the Zambezi, which provides access to central Africa. In the interior, several chains of mountains form the backbone of the country. ===History=== [[File:Fortaleza de São Sebastião-01.jpg|thumb|Fortaleza de São Sebastião, [[Ilha de Mozambique]], among the oldest surviving European buildings in the Southern Hemisphere]] Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama reached Mozambique in 1498, as a waypoint on the [[Cape Route]] to [[India]]. In 1500, the Portuguese established a string of forts and posts up and down the coast, starting with present day ''Ilha de Moçambique'' or Mozambique Island (at that time simply known as Mozambique and where the country gets its modern name), where the Portuguese plied the spice and slave routes from Mozambique up until 1891. After [[World War I]], Portuguese investment in commercial, industrial, agricultural, educational, transportation, and health care infrastructure for the indigenous population started providing for better social and economic possibilities and these continued to gain pace up until independence in 1975. In 1962, several anti-colonial political groups formed the Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO), which initiated an armed campaign against Portuguese colonial rule. Mozambique became independent after ten years of sporadic warfare on June 25, 1975. FRELIMO took complete control of the territory after a transition period and within a year of independence, almost all the Portuguese colonists had left Mozambique – some expelled by the new government of Mozambique, some fleeing in fear. Upon independence, Mozambique had fewer than 5 engineers in the entire country and the previous colonial infrastructure investments stopped entirely resulting in the rapid disintegration of much of Mozambique's infrastructure. FRELIMO responded to their lack of resources and the Cold War politics of the mid-1970s by moving into alignment with the Soviet Union and its allies. FRELIMO established a one-party Socialist state, and quickly received substantial international aid from Cuba and the Soviet bloc nations. In 1975, the Mozambican National Resistance (RENAMO), an anti-communist group sponsored by the Rhodesian Intelligence Service, the apartheid government in South Africa and the United States after Zimbabwe's independence, was founded and launched a series of attacks on transport routes, schools and health clinics, and the country descended into civil war; see also [[20th-century South Africa]]. In 1990, with apartheid crumbling in South Africa, and support for RENAMO drying up in South Africa and in the United States, the first direct talks between the FRELIMO government and Renamo were held. In November 1990, a new constitution was adopted. Mozambique was now a multiparty state, with periodic elections, and guaranteed democratic rights. With the signing of the Rome General Peace Accords, the civil war ended on October 15, 1992. ===Climate=== {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = 30 | febhigh = 30 | marhigh = 30 | aprhigh = 29 | mayhigh = 27 | junhigh = 25 | julhigh = 25 | aughigh = 26 | sephigh = 27 | octhigh = 28 | novhigh = 29 | dechigh = 30 | janlow = 22 | feblow = 22 | marlow = 21 | aprlow = 19 | maylow = 16 | junlow = 14 | jullow = 14 | auglow = 15 | seplow = 16 | octlow = 18 | novlow = 20 | declow = 21 | janprecip = 130 | febprecip = 124 | marprecip = 97 | aprprecip = 64 | mayprecip = 28 | junprecip = 27 | julprecip = 13 | augprecip = 13 | sepprecip = 38 | octprecip = 46 | novprecip = 86 | decprecip = 103 }} Almost all of Mozambique is within the tropics, so Mozambique features a mostly tropical climate. Along the coast Mozambique has a warm, tropical climate. Evenings are rarely cold, except for a few nights in June and July and the rainfall isn't too high. In summer, temperatures can soar and the humidity levels rise. Temperatures are typically higher in the north, around Pemba, and around the Zambezi. The interior plains generally have a higher temperature than that of the coast and have higher rainfall throughout the year. The mountainous regions generally remain cool throughout the year. For up-to date weather forecasts and tide tables visit http://www.climateandweather.com/weather-in-mozambique{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ===Public holidays=== [[File:Church in Monapo, Mozambique.jpg|thumb|Church in Monapo]] The public holidays in Mozambique are: * '''1 January''' New Year's Day. * '''3 February''' Heroes' Day. * '''7 April''' Woman's Day. * '''1 May''' Workers' Day. * '''25 June''' Independence Day. * '''7 September''' Lusaka Agreement Day. * '''25 September''' Armed Forces Day. * '''4 October''' Peace Day. * '''25 December''' Family Day. ===Smoking=== Smoking in all public places was banned in Mozambique in 2007. However, many restaurants and bars have ignored this ban as it is almost entirely unenforced. ===People=== The '''Makua''' is the largest ethnic group that dominate in the northern part of Mozambique. the '''Sena''' and '''Ndau''' in the Zambezi valley, and the '''Shangaan''' dominate in the southern part of Mozambique. ==Get in== As it is impossible to exchange meticais outside of Mozambique it is advisable to change a small amount of currency if arriving at a land border in mid to late afternoon to cover taxis and meals for the first night, currency exchanges generally close at 18:00 and due to sporadic ATM failures access to currency is by no means guaranteed out of hours. When accepted by merchants foreign currency has an extremely poor exchange rate. ===Visas and border fees=== [[File:Visa policy of Mozambique.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Mozambique, with countries in green having visa-free access. Countries in yellow having visa on arrival]] [[File:Giriyondo Border Post South Africa Mozambique (5132904810).jpg|thumb|Giriyondo border post in Kruger National Park (border with South Africa)]] All visitors (except citizens of Angola, Eswatini, South Africa, Tanzania, Botswana, Malawi, Mauritius, Zambia and Zimbabwe) require a visa, which can now be obtained on arrival at most major entry points including Maputo Airport, the Port of Maputo, Ressano Garcia, Goba, Ponto D'ouro, Giriyondo, Vilanculos Airport, Inhambane Airport, Beira Airport, Pemba Airport and Nampula Airport. The cost of receiving the tourist visa on arrival is US$95 as of January 2024, with no additional documentation required (at least at Maputo Airport). They ask for printed Hotel booking at Eswatini border posts. South Africa's currency is accepted, the officers will not provide change though. Land borders may also charge a stamping fee on entry, which is generally US$2, but is often waived if you buy your visa at the border. In addition, you must use the visa forms provided at the consulate or border as self-printed versions will not be accepted; at borders, these are free, but Mozambican embassies/consulates generally charge US$1 for the form. A '''tourist visa''' is valid for 90 days after issue and permits a 30-day stay. It can be extended by a further 30 days at immigration offices in provincial capitals. There is a US$100 a day fine for overstaying a visa. ===By plane=== Most international flights arrive from [[South Africa]], although direct international routes also exist between Mozambique and [[Zimbabwe]], [[Tanzania]], [[Kenya]], [[Portugal]], [[Qatar]], [[Istanbul]], and [[Addis Ababa]]. There are several flights daily from [[Johannesburg]] to [[Maputo]], operated by [http://www.flysaa.com South African Airways (SAA)] and the Mozambican flag-carrier [http://www.lam.co.mz Linhas Aereas de Moçambique (LAM)]. [http://www.fedair.com/ Federal Air] fly daily direct to Vilanculos International airport. Other airlines that fly to the country include Airlinkk, Qatar airways, Turkish airlines, Ethiopian airlines, Malawi airlines, [http://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways], and [http://www.tap.pt TAP Portugal]. There are also several flights during the week from Johannesburg, [[Dar es Salaam]], and [[Nairobi]] to [[Pemba]] in the north, operated by either South African Airlink (SAA) or LAM. If you make a telephone booking with LAM and will not be paying for your flight until check-in you must reconfirm the flight 72 hours before departure or they are liable to cancel it. After checking in you need to get a tax stamp on your boarding card. For internal flights the tax is 200 MT and for international flights 500 MT to be paid in cash. ===By train=== The railways in Mozambique are in poor shape and mainly used for freight; however, there are some opportunities for the intrepid traveller to travel by train. While there are no international connections per se, some border cities have rail connections. There are three train lines: one is in the far north of the country, travelling from [[Nampula]] to [[Cuamba]] near the [[Malawi]]an border; another runs from [[Maputo]] to [[Chicualacuala]] at the border with Zimbabwe; and the last one connects Maputo with the border to [[South Africa]]. ==== From Malawi==== This line connects [[Nampula]] with [[Cuamba]] (near the Malawi border). The train carries first, second and third-class passengers and is usually packed. From Nampula, the train leaves around 05:00-06:00, although you should arrive earlier to buy tickets from the booking office at the station. The area is packed with people traveling towards Malawi so expect queues. Once on board the journey is long and slow but fairly efficient and will get to Cuamba mid-afternoon. From here ''chapas'' will take you to the border (Entre Lagos) as only freight trains use this bit of the line. Even hardened African travelers will likely find this stretch of road very rough: expect it to take a fair amount of time. Once at Entre Lagos, the border formalities are in the station building (easy to find as the town is a typical small border town). The process can take some time as this is a little-used crossing. From here it is about a 1-km walk to the Malawi side of the border. The Malawi border closes before the Mozambique one, although there is a guesthouse if you get trapped. The easiest way to get from here to Liwonde is by train - sweet-talk the guards and they may let you share their compartment. ==== From South Africa ==== There are daily trains to [[Maputo]] from the border town of [[Ressano Garcia]] and the Lebombo border crossing. [[Komatipoort]], located just across the border in [[South Africa]] sees multiple trains from [[Johannesburg]] and [[Pretoria]] every week. ==== From Zimbabwe ==== A train runs from [[Bulawayo]] to the border town of Chicualacuala, where there is a connecting train to Maputo. ===By car=== In order to enter Mozambique by car you will need the original registration documents and if it is not your vehicle a letter from the owner granting permission to take the vehicle in to Mozambique. All foreign vehicles are required to have third party insurance, which is available at many borders for 150 South African rand, and also to pay road tax which of 26.50 MT. ====From South Africa==== * {{listing | name=Johannesburg (Lebombo/Ressano Garcia) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=N4 towards Mbombela, follow it until you reach the border just after Komatipoort | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open 06:00-19:00 (occasionally open 24 hours during busy periods) | price= | content=On the Mozambican side follow the EN4 for a further 100 km to reach Maputo. The stretch of the EN4 after the border leading up to the border has two toll stations that can be paid in US dollars, euros, South African rand or meticales. Change is provided in meticais. }} * {{listing | name=Kruger Park (Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Enter Kruger Park from Phalaborwa Gate and follow the signs for 95km to the Giriyondo Border Post. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open Apr-Sep 08:00 to 15:00, and Oct-Mar 08:00 to 16:00 | price= | content='''Caution 4WD only.''' On entering Mozambique you will be charged a conservation fee for entering Parque Nacional do Limpopo which is 200 MT/R67/USD10 per person and per vehicle. You do not need 3rd party insurance unless you exit Parque Nacional do Limpopo but this can be purchased at the park exit gate to Massingir. }} * {{listing | name=Kosi Bay | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Follow the R22 from Kosi Bay to the Mozambique border (signed as Ponta d'Ouro) and then take the right road as you leave the border then keep left until Ponta d'Ouro | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 07:30 to 17:30 | price= | content=The Kosi Bay Border is 630 km from Joburg or 460 km from Durban and is open 7 days a week. It closes at 17:00 (Google has this as 16:00, and some people are told it is 18:00). It borders the Ponta do Ouro border post in Mozambique 'Caution 4WD only'. Due to the use of seasonal dirt roads after the border it is advisable to use a GPS route provided by someone who has recently completed the journey. Access to Maputo used to be via a ferry service (R45) in Catembe. The new Maputo-Katembe Bridge linking KwaZulu-Natal and Mozambique, which at 3,041 m is the longest suspension bridge in Africa, reduces the travel time between Kosi Bay (on the KZN border) & Maputo from six hours to just 90 minutes. It opens up into the Mozambican National Park which has many speed bumps and changing speed zones which you need to be cognisant of if you want to avoid being stopped or fine }} ====From Eswatini==== * {{listing | name=Mhlumeni | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:00-18:00 | price= | content=Easily one the quietest and easiest of all the Mozambique borders to pass through, it is deserted most of the time. Getting a visa and 3rd party insurance at this border can be problematic so arrange ahead of time. If coming from Johannesburg and traveling over the weekend or during South African holidays you can expect to save at least an hour transiting via Eswatini to this border compared to using Ressano Garcia. }} * {{listing | name=Namaacha | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:00-20:00 | price= | content=The busier of the two Eswatini/Mozambique border posts and is very busy over weekend and holiday periods. }} ===By bus=== [[File:Public transport Muidumbe - Mueda (7660759658).jpg|thumb|Public transport in the north of the country]] ====From Malawi==== There are a number of border crossings to/from Malawi. By far the easiest and most frequently plied is at [[Zobue|Zóbuè]]. The road is in good condition. Daily ''chapas'' run to/from [[Tete]] to the border, where you will have to walk about 300 m to get to Malawian transport. Daily through buses from [[Chimoio]] and [[Beira]] also use this crossing. There is another border crossing to the north, at [[Dedza]], which may be more convenient for [[Lilongwe]] but the public transport on either side can be sporadic. To leave/enter Malawi to the east, there are two crossings, [[Milange]] and [[Mandimba]]. Milange is in the south-east of Malawi, and to get there you need to catch one of the daily vehicles that run between [[Mocuba]] and Milange. At Milange there is a 2-km walk to the border, and then another 1km to where Malawian transport leaves. Mandimba is further north, used mainly to get to Malawi from [[Lichinga]]. Several vehicles run daily between Lichinga and Mandimba, from where it is another 7 km to the border. Hitching is relatively easy, or bicycle-taxis do the trip for about US$1. It is also possible to cross the Lake - see [[#By boat]] below. ====From South Africa==== You can take the '''[http://www.intercape.co.za/ Intercape Mainliner]''', {{phone|+27 861 287 287}}, from [[Johannesburg]] to [[Maputo]]. These buses run in both directions on a regular basis, one in the morning, and another overnight, and are safe and affordable. Other carriers include '''[http://www.greyhound.co.za Greyhound]''' and '''[http://www.translux.co.za Translux]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. If you intend on obtaining a visa at the border you should only purchase a ticket as far as the border, bus companies will not permit you to board with a ticket to Maputo if you are not in possession of a visa. If you ask the bus conductor they will help you obtain a visa at the border and avoid the usually extremely long wait at the Mozambique side. Once through immigration either re board the bus and pay the fare to Maputo on board or pick up a minibus taxi to Maputo from the border. Three times per week there are bus connections to and from [[Durban]] (via [[Big Bend (Eswatini)|Big Bend]], [[Eswatini]]). There is also a service from [[Mbombela]] and [[Komatipoort]] to Maputo. There are the "taxis" to and from any destination in South Africa at affordable prices from 04:00 to 00:00. ====From Eswatini==== Chapas leave from both [[Manzini]] and [[Mbabane]] to Maputo via Goba typically around 11:00. Usefully they arrive in to Baixa (and can drop you at 24 de Julho) so you are within walking distance of both Fatima's and Base. The fare is R150 as of January 2024. ====From Tanzania==== The border between Mozambique and Tanzania is formed by the River Rovuma. Daily pick-ups connect [[Moçimboa da Praia]] with [[Palma]] and [[Namiranga]], the border post on the Mozambique side. The main route runs from [[Moçimboa da Praia]] (on the Mozambiquan side), via [[Palma]] (Mozambique), to [[Mtwara]] (on the Tanzanian side) and vice versa. It is recommended to take 2 days over this trip due to the low quality of the roads on the Mozambique side, and the low level of traffic. When coming from Tanzania, lifts depart from [[Mtwara]] and [[Kilambo]] to the Rovuma river. Kilambo is a small place with one road running through it, so lifts should be easy to find. Mtwara is much larger however, so ask the locals where and when lifts leave from. When coming from Mozambique, your lift to the river will normally start from either Palma (more likely), or - if you're lucky - [[Moçimboa da Praia]] and go to the border post at Namiranga. It will generally wait for you to have your passport stamped at the border post (a mud hut in Namiranga). During the wet season, your lift will then probably drive to the banks of the Rovuma. During the dry season it will drive you to the end of the road, from which there is a walk of between 1 and 2 km (depending on the water level that day) to the Rovuma river. There is an unreliable ferry that goes across the river. Typically however, the crossing is done by dugout canoes or slightly larger wooden motorboats. The trip across the river shouldn't cost more than around US$8, but can only normally be paid for using Tanzanian shillings, although if you find yourself without these, there are plenty of locals who will offer you "generous" exchange rates for your hard-earned Dollars and Meticais. If water levels are low you may have to wade to get to and from your boat on the Tanzanian side, so possessing a heavy-duty waterproof sack may be a good idea, but it is by no means essential. On the Tanzanian side you will often find yourself mobbed by people offering you transport. Pick-pocketing is common on both sides of the river, so care must be taken whilst finding transport to the nearby towns, a good method of reducing your trouble is to befriend a local on the boatride over, you will find most of your fellow travellers are willing to help you in one way or another. Transport then carries you on to the Tanzanian border post at Kilambo, and normally, further on to Mtwara, the capital of Southern Tanzania. For further information and up-to-date news on this crossing, go to "Russell's Place" (also known as Cashew Camp) in Pemba. There are other crossings to Tanzania, but these all require long walks. Ask around for local information. ====From Zambia==== The main crossing is at [[Cassacatiza]], north-west of [[Tete]]. This border is in good condition, but lightly traveled. Daily chapas run between Tete and Matema, from there the public transport is sporadic. The best way to travel from Mozambique to Zambia is to go via Malawi. ====From Zimbabwe==== There are two crossings - [[Nyamapanda]] (south-west of [[Tete]]), and [[Machipanda]] (west of [[Chimoio]]). Both are heavily traveled, especially Machipanda due to its location at the end of the Beira Corridor. ===By boat=== [[File:Mozambique Island Bridge.jpg|thumb|Bridge to Ilha de Mozambique]] There is no scheduled sea travel to and from Mozambique. ====Tanzania==== Outside of monsoon season it may be possible to hire a dhow from [[Tanzania]] down to Mozambique but this will generally be extremely expensive. The Tanzanian ports of [[Mikindani]], [[Mtwara]] and [[Msimbati]] are all within range of Mozambique and will be the best places to secure dhow transport. In reverse the ports of [[Moçimboa da Praia]] and [[Palma]] are the two best ports on the Mozambique side to find a dhow to Tanzania. ====Malawi==== The MV Ilala operates across [[Lake Malawi]] from [[Monkey Bay]], [[Chilumba]], [[Nkhata Bay]] to [[Likoma Island]]. From [[Likoma Island]] it is a 3-km boat ride to the Mozambique border at [[Cobue]]. It is possible to travel across Lake Niassa (Lake Malawi), though international travelers must legally enter through a border post and have the appropriate documentation (visas, etc. depending on nationality). Once on the Mozambique side, local transport would need to be arranged. Taking the Ilala ferry is certainly a once in a lifetime experience. Sleeping on the upper deck of this second world war ferry and watching the sunrise over far rolling hills along the Mozambican and Malawian coast is breath taking. You can enter the ferry from any of the harbors where the ferry arrives. IF you plan to travel on to Malawi, you should get on the ferry at the harbor in Metangula. ==Get around== ===By car=== Traffic is left-handed, cars are often in poor conditio, and drivers may not know or respect traffic rules. Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs is common, especially at night and on weekends. Driving after dark outside the city is not recommended. Keep car windows closed and doors locked, especially when stopping at intersections. Driving can lead to being stopped by the police for bribes. There have also been cases of carjacking. It is not a good idea to pick up strangers.[[File:Estrada Nacional EN12 (5983637047).jpg|thumb|EN12 highway]] The EN1 runs the length of the country generally staying close to the coast from Maputo up. Roads throughout the country are generally in poor condition, especially when compared to South Africa, although the stretch of the EN1 between Maputo and Inchope is in decent condition with the exception of the 120 km directly north of Vilankulo and the last 100 km south of Inchope which are still in decrepit condition and pose a serious challenge to any driver in a low clearance vehicle. The EN1 from Mocuba to Nampula and further to Ilha de Moçambique is in good condition. The EN6 between the Machipanda border crossing with Zimbabwe and Inchope is in good condition, but deteriorates considerably between Inchope and Beira, becoming almost impassable at points. North of Vilankulo service stations are scarce - motorists may go 150 km between service stations so fill up at every opportunity. South African company [https://bushlore.com Bushlore] rents 4x4 vehicles and campers and will facilitate cross-border trips with flexible pick-ups and drop-offs. ===Chapas and buses=== '''Buses''' and '''chapas''' leave early in Mozambique: 04:00 is not unusual, particularly as you go further north. Chapas take the form of both mini & midi buses but often pick up trucks and cargo trucks will offer a ride for the same fare as a chapa. Government and privately owned buses ply the same routes as Chapas but typically stop a great deal more often so are inadvisable for anything other than short journeys. The chapas themselves, particularly on shorter routes, are generally in shockingly poor condition. Expect seats, doors and interiors falling apart. The Mozambican government regulates prices on key routes which means chapa travel in Mozambique is extremely good value. In larger cities this translates to signs with destinations and prices in chapa stations (EG - Junta in Maputo), these prices will not come down no matter how hard you negotiate but many an enterprising chapa conductor/navigator/bouncer will try to extort you if you are silly enough to ask what a price is. If in doubt ask at your hotel, a local or as a last resort simply hand them a large note; often they will assume you know the correct fare and give you the correct change. There are government registered chapas and unregistered chapas. While both are unsafe and are in many accidents each year, always take the government chapas. These can be recognized by being the large buses. These buses are newer and thus slightly safer. They cost slightly more (at the time this was written they were 10 MT a journey, and unregistered were 5). Unregistered chapas though are extremely dangerous and overcrowded and should never be used if you can help it. ===Taxis=== Once only found in [[Maputo]] taxis can now be found in many cities throughout the country. They never have meters so you must negotiate regarding cost before your journey. Taxis are often in as perilous condition as chapas (from balding tires to someone sitting in the passenger seat holding a plastic gas can with the cars fuel line going in to it) and breakdowns should be considered likely. Never pay for your journey until you reach your destination. If you are female, never take a taxi alone, especially not one found on the side of the road. If you must, ask around for the number of a trusted taxi driver who will come pick you up and can usually be there in under half an hour depending on how far away they are. Always add ten minutes or more to how long they say they will take to collect you though. In Maputo there is a flat rate of 200 MT for any journey in the city center. Longer journeys (EG to Junta) cost 400 MT and up. In the early morning they will often attempt to gouge you, doubling the price to 400 MT, as there are often very few taxis about at this time. Chapas can also be rented as taxis but are typically more expensive and far less comfortable. ===Air=== Domestic '''flights''' are the fastest and most sane way to get around the country if you can afford it. [http://www.lam.co.mz Linhas Aereas de Moçambique] flies between the major cities. The flights themselves are actually on extremely modern, clean and well maintained planes and are a stark contrast to the other transport options in the country. However, be warned that all airlines from the country including LAM are listed on the [http://ec.europa.eu/transport/modes/air/safety/air-ban/doc/list_en.pdf EU air safety list] as of June 2015 and are therefore banned from operating in the European airspace. LAM operate an old style booking system where you can reserve a flight over the telephone and then pay for it on check in. If you do use this facility ensure that you confirm your flight 72 hours before departure or your reservation will likely be canceled. Alternatively all LAM offices in towns and airports can book and receive payment for flights throughout the country. It is not advisable to pay using credit card due to the level of corruption present in all state enterprises including LAM. ===Rail=== '''Trains''' aren't really very useful, considering there's only one and it's in the far north of the country traveling from [[Nampula]] to [[Cuamba]] near the [[Malawi]]an border. See ''get in'' above for more details. Mine clearance from the old coastal railway running the length of the country has been finished in many areas but with the costs involved and the level of corruption in the country it will be decades before any rail service with reasonable coverage arrives in the country. ==Talk== The official language of Mozambique is [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]], though many people speak English in the capital Maputo and in touristy areas. The further north you travel the less likely you are to encounter English speakers, and as you enter more rural areas even Portuguese is limited. Mozambicans speak standard Portuguese (European Portuguese), and it is spoken as a lingua franca or second language of speakers of various native languages. [[Swahili phrasebook|Swahili]] is useful in the far north of the country as you get close to Tanzania, especially along the coast, and [[Nyanja phrasebook|Nyanja]] is spoken near the border with Malawi and Zambia. Some native words from the Shona language can be useful if you are traveling near Cabora Bassa. ==See== [[File:Maputo-aerial.jpg|thumb|Maputo]] * [[Ilha de Mozambique]], i.e. Mozambique Island is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mozambique. The island boasts colonial architecture including probably the oldest European building in the Southern Hemisphere and beaches. * The historic town of [[Inhambane]]. * Sites from the civil war all over the country and the Museum of Revolution in [[Maputo]] to learn more about recent events in the country's history * Wildlife and nature in [[Gorongosa National Park]]. ==Do== * '''Dive''', see [[Diving in Mozambique]] for details. * '''Tours and Safaris''', a number of tour operators can help you reach Mozambique's highlights. The most reputable as per guide books Lonely Planet and Bradt are Mozaic Travel [http://www.mozaictravel.com]{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Dana Tours in the south, and Kaskazini in the north. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mozambican meticais | currencyCode=MT | date=January 2025 | USD=64 | EUR=75 | GBP=87 | ZAR=3.4 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mzn-mozambican-metical XE.com] }} The currency of Mozambique is the '''new metical''' (plural ''meticais'', pronounced 'meta-caysh'), denoted by the symbol "'''MT'''" (ISO code: '''MZN'''). It may also be called ''Meticais Nova Família''. It is notionally divided into 100 centavos. Three zeroes were dropped from the currency in 2006. Old currency can no longer be exchanged at banks. People will occasionally still refer to the old currency, so if someone asks for "1 million", they generally mean one thousand new meticais. Coins of Mozambique are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 centavos, 1, 2, 5 and 10 meticais. Banknotes of Mozambique are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 meticais. Many businesses in the tourist centers are run by [[South Africa]]ns and prices are often quoted in rand (for which the usual abbreviation is ZAR). In this guide prices are also quoted in rand when applicable. US dollars, rand, British pounds and Euros are freely convertible at commercial rates at any bank or exchange. Other currencies such as Canadian or Australian dollars or Japanese yen, are not accepted anywhere, even at official banks and exchanges. There is very little black market currency exchange, since the commercial exchanges offer the best market rate. You cannot exchange meticais outside Mozambique, but you can convert them back at exchanges prior to leaving the country. Also you cannot buy meticais outside Moçambique. '''ATMs''' are present throughout the country; '''BCI, Standard Bank''', '''Eco Bank''', '''Millennium BIM''' are the banks you are most likely to run in to. BCI, Standard and Eco Bank accepts Visa & MasterCard, Millennium accepts all international cards including Maestro/Cirrus cards. ATMs have transaction limits on withdrawals, which vary with the bank. Millennium bank limits withdrawals to 3,000 MT, and Standard Bank and Eco Bank to 10,000 MT; you can always insert your card again to withdraw more money. BCI and Ecobank atms have no withdraw fee for overseas cards. ===Shopping=== Everything in Mozambique that does not have a price attached can be bargained down to whatever you consider a reasonable price to be. Remember that while laughing when they give you an insane price is perfectly OK you should not get outwardly angry or hostile, you will be unlikely to get a reasonable price if you do. If in doubt about what a fair price is ask your hotel. No one in Mozambique, including often backpacker lodges, have change. The 1000 MT and 500 MT are almost impossible to use day to day, so change them down in to more manageable notes in any bank. The one exception to this rule is chapa drivers, if you find yourself running low on small bills pay for your 15 MT fare with a 100 MT note. ==Eat== [[File:Lobster night.jpg|thumb|Lobsters!]] As a country the [[Portugal|Portuguese ]]<nowiki/>occupation has a profound impact on local foods that has produced some of the most unique and interesting cuisine within Southern Africa. Towards the coast a great deal of seafood is used within even the most basic of dishes, however, in land the maize based partridges common throughout Africa becomes staple but with some Portuguese flair. * '''Piri-Piri''', also known as the '''African bird's-eye chili''' this extremely strong chili is common in sauce form throughout the country. * '''Pãozinho ''', also known as '''Portuguese rolls''' or '''Prego (beef) no pão and bifana (fried pork) '''. A floury and often semi-sweet bread roll, typically served with meat in the center. * '''Matapa''', a seafood (clam, crab or prawn) stew made with cassava leaves and generally served over rice. This is one of the Mozambique staples. * '''Camarão National''', are Mozambican prawns marinaded in a Piri-Piri, garlic, onion, lemon and vinegar. * '''Cray fish''' and '''other seafood'''. These are caught off the beach throughout the country and will generally be prepared with a piri-piri marinade, served with rice and matapa. * '''Kakana''' This is a bitter tasting local vegetable. ==Drink== <!--DO NOT add any bar or club listings to the country article. They belong in the relevant city article---> All tap water in Mozambique should be assumed to be unsafe to drink, even if it is not harmful it usually has some sediment that your stomach will not be used to. Most western oriented lodgings either provide a fresh water source or sell bottled water. ===Beer=== In Mozambique '''Cervejas de Mocambique''' have a virtual monopoly on beer brewing. The three most popular brands are 2M (remember to pronounce it doysh-em or you will end up with an extra beer), Laurentina Clara and Manica. Other local African beers such as Castle and Windhoek are reasonably widely available but are not as popular as in neighboring countries due to the high quality of the local brews. ===Liquors=== Locally produced spirits such as vodka and gin are relatively common throughout the country and are relatively inexpensive. The local drink is Cashu made of the peel from the cashew nut. According to the locals it's very good for a man's libido. It has a sour taste. Many chain and local supermarkets do not sell alcohol in Mozambique: you will need to find a specific liquor store close by. <!--DO NOT add any bar or club listings to the country article. They belong in the relevant city article---> ==Sleep== Accommodation ranges from inexpensive guesthouses and backpacker-oriented accommodation through to some of the most expensive resort accommodation in the region. [[File:Un bungalow - 2012-06-13 - 75154600.jpg|thumb|Bungalow]] ===Hotels=== Hotels in Mozambique are generally ungraded and, particularly in the less traveled parts of the country, have not been updated since independence. In some cases you can pay up to $50USD a night for a hotel room that should be in the US$5–10 range based on facilities. On the other end of the scale Mozambique hosts some of the most incredible, and expensive, hotels and resorts in the world. ===Backpacker lodges=== [[Maputo]], [[Tofo Beach]], [[Vilanculos]], [[Chimoio]] and [[Pemba]] have backpacker lodges and are geared up for the budget traveler. There are some backpacker options elsewhere in the country but often the only option for a budget traveler will be transient labor guesthouses or cheap hotels. ===Self-catering=== In most major tourist areas many self-catering options exist. If you do bring your own gas based cooking equipment, keep in mind that the typical backpacker Lindal valve gas canisters are not available anywhere in the country. ===Camping and caravaning=== Dedicated camp sites with security are available in almost all coastal towns and you can often camp in rural areas with a village chief's blessing (If you do decide to use this option a small offering such as food, liquor or cigarettes can be very useful). If taking a caravan keep in mind that a great deal of roads in Mozambique degenerate in to sandy paths that require 4WD, it is advisable to only stick to popular areas along the EN1. ===Purchasing land or property=== If someone offers to "sell" you land in Mozambique walk away immediately, it is a scam. Private ownership of land in Mozambique is impossible, all land is owned by the government and will only be provided for foreign use, under a 99-year lease, under very specific circumstances. ==Learn== * '''Universidade Eduardo Mondlane''', [http://www.uem.mz] is the oldest and largest university in the country. ==Work== * You may be able to find work '''teaching''' at a school such as The American International School of Mozambique [http://www.aism-moz.com/?Page=Employment]. * If you're a certified divemaster or instructor you could try helping out at one of the '''dive shops''' in [[Tofo Beach]], [[Vilanculos]] or [[Ponta d'Ouro]]. ==Stay safe== [[File:Lighthouse (8541084669).jpg|thumb|Lighthouse in Beira]] Risks are much the same as many other countries in Africa (and significantly less than some, including parts of South Africa). Nevertheless muggings, robberies, rape and murder do occur, so the normal precautions should be taken. Women absolutely should never walk alone on beaches. Attacks on women have grown in tourist areas. In particular it's worth checking with local hostels and other tourists as to where dangerous areas are. But in general the Mozambican people are extremely warm and friendly and you will encounter far less hassle than in almost all of the countries surrounding it. ===Police=== In Mozambique the police do not exist to help you, only to try and extort money from you. Do not trust them under any circumstances. Insisting on being taken to a police station is unlikely to improve your situation, with the exception of in Maputo, the police have been known to rob tourists blind and throw them in a cell. Instead mention contacting your embassy or the anti-corruption hot line to verify a fine and always ask for a receipt. If you have cause to go to a police station (''e.g.'', filing a police report for insurance purposes after a theft), do not take any valuables or excessive currency with you and try to ''always'' go with someone else. '''At airports:''' While airport security personnel typically prioritize ensuring the safety of passengers and aircraft, there have been reported cases of opportunistic individuals taking advantage of their position to pilfer travelers' belongings, including cash, credit cards, and other valuables. To minimize the risk of becoming a victim of such theft, it's crucial to adopt precautionary measures. # Travel with a minimum of cash: Only carry the amount of cash you'll need for immediate expenses, such as transportation, meals, and incidentals. # Employ travel cards instead of cash: Travel cards, including credit cards and debit cards, offer greater protection than cash. They're linked to your bank account and can be used to make purchases and withdraw cash from ATMs. However, inform your bank of your travel itinerary beforehand to prevent your card from being flagged for suspicious activity. # Explore digital payment methods: Mobile wallets and other digital payment methods are becoming increasingly popular and convenient for travelers. These methods allow for contactless payments without the need to carry cash or cards. # Stay vigilant: Maintain constant vigilance over your belongings. ====Speed limits==== In Mozambique the speed limit in town is 60 km/h (unless there are road signs to the contrary ) and 100 km/h elsewhere. There are mobile speed traps on the EN1 which specifically target foreign visitors. ====Bribery==== When dealing with the Mozambican police never suggest a bribe, simply listen to whatever lecture they care to give and ask "What can we do about this?" Often they will simply let you go, if they do ask for a bribe the amount is entirely negotiable and can range from a bottle of coke (carrying no identification) through to several hundred US dollars (minor drug infractions). ====Identification==== By law you must carry a form of identification with you at all times and present it to the police on request. As a result you should always carry a notarized copy of your passport photo page, visa and entry stamp with you at all times. Ask your hotel where to locate a notary or contact your local embassy as soon as you enter the country. In Maputo, there is one on Av. Lenine, close to Mimmo's, and another on Av. Armando Tivane (one block west of Av. Nyerere) between Av. Mao Tse-Tung and Av. 24 de Julho. They are not particularly easy to find, ask around. If you are asked for identification by the police and you do not have a notarized copy under no circumstances give them your passport, if you do then it will likely cost you a great deal of money to get it back; often simply talking to them a while will get them to go away. ===Land mines=== While most of the country has been cleared there is still an on-going risk in rural areas away from the EN1 in Sofala, Tete, Manica, Gaza, Inhambane and Maputo provinces. Only 2 or 3 incidents a year occur with landmines and they are all well outside the tourist trail. ==Stay healthy== * '''Malarial prophylaxis''' is essential in all parts of Mozambique. Chloroquine/Paludrine are now as ineffective as in other parts of east Africa, and it's worth going to see your doctor to get decent protection. If you are in country and suspect you have malaria there are clinics in every town that will administer a test for approximately 50 MT, the treatment also costs 50 MT if you have malaria. * '''Get all your vaccinations before arriving''' Medical facilities in Mozambique are now generally reasonably stocked, but it is always worth getting a range of vaccinations before you leave. Prevention is better than cure. It is worth considering carrying some clean needles/sterile set if you are visiting out of the way areas, purely as remote medical facilities may have problems getting hold of them. [[File:Nshima and mice.JPG|thumb|Mice, anyone?]] * '''Mind what you eat.''' As common in most countries in the world, if you are concerned about the standards of hygiene in a place, don't eat there. * '''Do not have unprotected sex.''' As in many parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, there is a very high HIV incidence, at 12.5% ([https://phia.icap.columbia.edu/countries/mozambique/#:~:text=The%20Mozambique%20PHIA%20survey%2C%20also,and%20interviewed%20over%2017%2C000%20participants. National HIV Survey, 2021]) * '''Do not drink tap water or use any ice.''' South of the Zambezi river that divides the country, Mozambique is much more developed, especially around Maputo, tourist areas such as Inhambane and the industrial city of Beira. Here, especially in built-up areas, it is safe to drink the tap water, hence water in this area is marketed as "mineral water" and not "drinking water" and is sold at an inflated price as a semi-luxury item (sometimes for as much as 50 or 60 MT in backpackers lodges and restaurants). The infrastructure in the north of the country is much less developed and, as such, caution must be exercised, especially in rural areas and the area near Palma and bordering Tanzania. The tap water is usually safe to drink in the main cities such as Nampula and Pemba, and on Mozambique Island. If you are ever unsure about the quality of the tap water, water-purifying liquids (normally chlorine-based) are widely available and very cheap, costing around 40 cents for a large bottle - the most popular brand is "Certeza" and it is easy to find. You could also consider bringing puri-tabs if you are planning on going well off the "beaten track". * '''Private clinics.''' There are a few private health clinics in Maputo that will also arrange repatriation in emergencies. Clinica da Sommerschield (tel: 21 493924) Clinica Suedoise (tel: 21 492922). *'''Electric showers'''. In any accommodation, check the shower fitting. A rather dangerous type manufactured in Brazil is popular: it contains an ungrounded 4 kW electric heater. Do not touch the fitting when in use, as they have been known to give severe electric shocks. Better still, switch the power off (there should be a nearby circuit breaker) and have a cold shower. Be similarly cautious with any other type of electrical shower heater. ==Connect== ===Mobile phones=== [https://movitel.co.mz/ '''Movitel'''] is becoming the most popular carrier in the country. There is also the South-African owned '''[https://www.vm.co.mz/ Vodacom Mozambique]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''Vodacom have 4G in many towns and GPRS Edge elsewhere. The APN is internet. Check your phone manual for setting instructions. The mCel service is not entirely reliable, especially outside Maputo. Vodacom is generally very good. Many Mozambicans think Movitel has the fastest internet, especially outside Maputo. While it is OK to buy credit from the hundreds of vendors roaming the streets wearing mCel or Vodacom shirts you should never buy SIM cards and starter packs, in many cases they sell them at hugely inflated prices and often they will be from one of the many recalled batches that no longer work. Any mobile phone store can sell you a working starter pack for around 50 MT. ===Internet=== Internet is widely available in Maputo, with many internet cafes and all major hotels having internet access. The cell phone providers - mCel, Vodacom, and Movitel - have introduced internet to cellphone and USB modems. See above for further information. Outside Maputo internet coverage is sporadic and mostly available in places frequented by tourists. Local Telecommunication de Mozambique (TDM) offices almost always have internet although speed and availability can be problematic. ===Radio=== There are many FM stations in Maputo, offering a variety of music and speech. Away from the capital, Radio Mozambique will be heard in many places and BBC World Service have their English/Portuguese service in the main cities. There are numerous small community radio stations serving smaller towns/villages. A new radio station called LM Radio (Lifetime Music Radio), broadcasts in English on 87.8 FM in Maputo and Matola. The radio station offers a wide range of music from the 1960s, 70s and 80s together with a blend of modern day music in the same style and flavor. The radio station also provides regular travel and safety tips for visitors to Mozambique. {{geo|-19|35|zoom=6}} {{isPartOf|Southern Africa}} {{outlinecountry}} {{related|African_National_Parks}} {{related|African_flora_and_fauna}} {{related|Discount_airlines_in_Africa}} agq334xbg3fc1cnvqw4q5e47tuyfds7 5091336 5091335 2025-07-11T10:40:54Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091336 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Island of Mozambique banner Small boats.jpg|caption=Boats outside Ilha de Mozambique}} '''Mozambique''' (Portuguese: ''Moçambique'') is a country on the Indian Ocean coast of [[Southern Africa]]. From the Monte Binga peak, {{m|2,436}} high, to the stunning beaches along the coast, Mozambique is a country of contrasts. As well as some of the best colonial era architecture and relics to be found on the continent, Mozambique has also preserved its African cultural heritage, which can be experienced through art, music and food. Its eastern coastline along the Indian Ocean is more than 1,000 km long, a fantastic draw for scuba divers, fishermen, sailors and beach lovers. ==Regions== Mozambique has 10 provinces that can be grouped into the following three regions: {{Regionlist| regionmap=Mozambique regions.svg | regionmapsize=400px | region1name=[[Northern Mozambique]] | region1color=#71b37b | region1items= | region1description=Cabo Delgado, Nampula and Niassa provinces| region2name=[[Central Mozambique]] | region2color=#8a84a3 | region2items= | region2description=Manica, Sofala, Tete and Zambézia provinces| region4name=[[Southern Mozambique]] | region4color=#d09440 | region4items= | region4description=Gaza, Inhambane and Maputo provinces, and the Bazaruto National Sea Park| }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Northern Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q14227435}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#8a84a3|title=[[Central Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q14210533}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d09440|title=[[Southern Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q14234730}} ==Cities== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Maputo]]|wikidata=Q3889}} - the thriving capital in the far south of the country. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Beira]]|wikidata=Q211563}} - a busy port town and capital of Sofala Province. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ilha de Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q331099}} - a [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]] and the former capital under Portuguese rule. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Inhambane]]|wikidata=Q456577}} - a pretty historic town on a bay. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Nampula]]|wikidata=Q323801}} - an industrial city in the north and capital of Nampula Province. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pemba]]|wikidata=Q498048}} - in Northern Mozambique, a popular holiday destination for Mozambicans, although its isolation has kept it off the tourist route for most European visitors. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chimoio]]|wikidata=Q498048}} - in Central Mozambique, capital of Manica Province, point of departure to visit Chimanimani National Park and Mount Binga (tallest peak in Mozambique), transitional point to Zimbabwe and Malawi. ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Bazaruto Archipelago]]|wikidata=Q2860206}} &mdash; a beautiful island resort and underwater marine park with great diving, geared to high-end tourism. * {{marker|name=[[Cahora Bassa]]|wikidata=Q755015}} dam &mdash; hydro-electric dam on the Zambezi river and the second largest man-made lake in Africa. * {{marker|name=[[Gorongosa National Park]]|wikidata=Q113952}} * {{marker|name=[[Ilha de Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q331099}} &mdash; Former colonial capital with a historical heritage that's among the most well kept in Mozambique, and indeed in all of Africa. A [[UNESCO World Heritage site]] since 1991. * {{marker|name=[[Limpopo National Park]]|wikidata=Q1968897}} * {{marker|name=[[Ponta d'Ouro]]|wikidata=Q2043834}} &mdash; a great dive spot, more easily accessible from South Africa than from Maputo. * {{marker|name=[[Quirimbas Islands|Quirimbas Archipelago and National Park]]|wikidata=Q1546990}} &mdash; at the north of the country, a scenic and secluded holiday destination off the beaten track with lush African bush on the mainland and white sand beaches/crystal blue water in the Archipelago and on the coast. Accessible through [[Pemba]]. * {{marker|name=[[Tofo Beach]]|wikidata=Q3530336}} &mdash; a backpacker haven on the coastline east of Inhambane with excellent diving. And whalesharks!! * {{marker|name=[[Vilanculos]]|wikidata=Q2006546}} /Vilankulo &mdash; a popular holiday destination and gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMozambique.png}} ===Geography=== Mozambique stretches for 1,535 mi (2,470 km) along Africa's southeast coast. It is nearly twice the size of California. Tanzania is to the north; Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe to the west; and South Africa and Eswatini to the south. The country is generally a low-lying plateau broken up by 25 sizable rivers that flow into the Indian Ocean. The largest is the Zambezi, which provides access to central Africa. In the interior, several chains of mountains form the backbone of the country. ===History=== [[File:Fortaleza de São Sebastião-01.jpg|thumb|Fortaleza de São Sebastião, [[Ilha de Mozambique]], among the oldest surviving European buildings in the Southern Hemisphere]] Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama reached Mozambique in 1498, as a waypoint on the [[Cape Route]] to [[India]]. In 1500, the Portuguese established a string of forts and posts up and down the coast, starting with present day ''Ilha de Moçambique'' or Mozambique Island (at that time simply known as Mozambique and where the country gets its modern name), where the Portuguese plied the spice and slave routes from Mozambique up until 1891. After [[World War I]], Portuguese investment in commercial, industrial, agricultural, educational, transportation, and health care infrastructure for the indigenous population started providing for better social and economic possibilities and these continued to gain pace up until independence in 1975. In 1962, several anti-colonial political groups formed the Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO), which initiated an armed campaign against Portuguese colonial rule. Mozambique became independent after ten years of sporadic warfare on June 25, 1975. FRELIMO took complete control of the territory after a transition period and within a year of independence, almost all the Portuguese colonists had left Mozambique – some expelled by the new government of Mozambique, some fleeing in fear. Upon independence, Mozambique had fewer than 5 engineers in the entire country and the previous colonial infrastructure investments stopped entirely resulting in the rapid disintegration of much of Mozambique's infrastructure. FRELIMO responded to their lack of resources and the Cold War politics of the mid-1970s by moving into alignment with the Soviet Union and its allies. FRELIMO established a one-party Socialist state, and quickly received substantial international aid from Cuba and the Soviet bloc nations. In 1975, the Mozambican National Resistance (RENAMO), an anti-communist group sponsored by the Rhodesian Intelligence Service, the apartheid government in South Africa and the United States after Zimbabwe's independence, was founded and launched a series of attacks on transport routes, schools and health clinics, and the country descended into civil war; see also [[20th-century South Africa]]. In 1990, with apartheid crumbling in South Africa, and support for RENAMO drying up in South Africa and in the United States, the first direct talks between the FRELIMO government and Renamo were held. In November 1990, a new constitution was adopted. Mozambique was now a multiparty state, with periodic elections, and guaranteed democratic rights. With the signing of the Rome General Peace Accords, the civil war ended on October 15, 1992. ===Climate=== {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = 30 | febhigh = 30 | marhigh = 30 | aprhigh = 29 | mayhigh = 27 | junhigh = 25 | julhigh = 25 | aughigh = 26 | sephigh = 27 | octhigh = 28 | novhigh = 29 | dechigh = 30 | janlow = 22 | feblow = 22 | marlow = 21 | aprlow = 19 | maylow = 16 | junlow = 14 | jullow = 14 | auglow = 15 | seplow = 16 | octlow = 18 | novlow = 20 | declow = 21 | janprecip = 130 | febprecip = 124 | marprecip = 97 | aprprecip = 64 | mayprecip = 28 | junprecip = 27 | julprecip = 13 | augprecip = 13 | sepprecip = 38 | octprecip = 46 | novprecip = 86 | decprecip = 103 }} Almost all of Mozambique is within the tropics, so Mozambique features a mostly tropical climate. Along the coast Mozambique has a warm, tropical climate. Evenings are rarely cold, except for a few nights in June and July and the rainfall isn't too high. In summer, temperatures can soar and the humidity levels rise. Temperatures are typically higher in the north, around Pemba, and around the Zambezi. The interior plains generally have a higher temperature than that of the coast and have higher rainfall throughout the year. The mountainous regions generally remain cool throughout the year. For up-to date weather forecasts and tide tables visit http://www.climateandweather.com/weather-in-mozambique{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ===Public holidays=== [[File:Church in Monapo, Mozambique.jpg|thumb|Church in Monapo]] The public holidays in Mozambique are: * '''1 January''' New Year's Day. * '''3 February''' Heroes' Day. * '''7 April''' Woman's Day. * '''1 May''' Workers' Day. * '''25 June''' Independence Day. * '''7 September''' Lusaka Agreement Day. * '''25 September''' Armed Forces Day. * '''4 October''' Peace Day. * '''25 December''' Family Day. ===Smoking=== Smoking in all public places was banned in Mozambique in 2007. However, many restaurants and bars have ignored this ban as it is almost entirely unenforced. ===People=== The '''Makua''' is the largest ethnic group that dominate in the northern part of Mozambique. the '''Sena''' and '''Ndau''' in the Zambezi valley, and the '''Shangaan''' dominate in the southern part of Mozambique. ==Get in== As it is impossible to exchange meticais outside of Mozambique it is advisable to change a small amount of currency if arriving at a land border in mid to late afternoon to cover taxis and meals for the first night, currency exchanges generally close at 18:00 and due to sporadic ATM failures access to currency is by no means guaranteed out of hours. When accepted by merchants foreign currency has an extremely poor exchange rate. ===Visas and border fees=== [[File:Visa policy of Mozambique.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Mozambique, with countries in green having visa-free access. Countries in yellow having visa on arrival]] [[File:Giriyondo Border Post South Africa Mozambique (5132904810).jpg|thumb|Giriyondo border post in Kruger National Park (border with South Africa)]] All visitors (except citizens of Angola, Eswatini, South Africa, Tanzania, Botswana, Malawi, Mauritius, Zambia and Zimbabwe) require a visa, which can now be obtained on arrival at most major entry points including Maputo Airport, the Port of Maputo, Ressano Garcia, Goba, Ponto D'ouro, Giriyondo, Vilanculos Airport, Inhambane Airport, Beira Airport, Pemba Airport and Nampula Airport. The cost of receiving the tourist visa on arrival is US$95 as of January 2024, with no additional documentation required (at least at Maputo Airport). They ask for printed Hotel booking at Eswatini border posts. South Africa's currency is accepted, the officers will not provide change though. Land borders may also charge a stamping fee on entry, which is generally US$2, but is often waived if you buy your visa at the border. In addition, you must use the visa forms provided at the consulate or border as self-printed versions will not be accepted; at borders, these are free, but Mozambican embassies/consulates generally charge US$1 for the form. A '''tourist visa''' is valid for 90 days after issue and permits a 30-day stay. It can be extended by a further 30 days at immigration offices in provincial capitals. There is a US$100 a day fine for overstaying a visa. ===By plane=== Most international flights arrive from [[South Africa]], although direct international routes also exist between Mozambique and [[Zimbabwe]], [[Tanzania]], [[Kenya]], [[Portugal]], [[Qatar]], [[Istanbul]], and [[Addis Ababa]]. There are several flights daily from [[Johannesburg]] to [[Maputo]], operated by [http://www.flysaa.com South African Airways (SAA)] and the Mozambican flag-carrier [http://www.lam.co.mz Linhas Aereas de Moçambique (LAM)]. [http://www.fedair.com/ Federal Air] fly daily direct to Vilanculos International airport. Other airlines that fly to the country include Airlinkk, Qatar airways, Turkish airlines, Ethiopian airlines, Malawi airlines, [http://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways], and [http://www.tap.pt TAP Portugal]. There are also several flights during the week from Johannesburg, [[Dar es Salaam]], and [[Nairobi]] to [[Pemba]] in the north, operated by either South African Airlink (SAA) or LAM. If you make a telephone booking with LAM and will not be paying for your flight until check-in you must reconfirm the flight 72 hours before departure or they are liable to cancel it. After checking in you need to get a tax stamp on your boarding card. For internal flights the tax is 200 MT and for international flights 500 MT to be paid in cash. ===By train=== The railways in Mozambique are in poor shape and mainly used for freight; however, there are some opportunities for the intrepid traveller to travel by train. While there are no international connections per se, some border cities have rail connections. There are three train lines: one is in the far north of the country, travelling from [[Nampula]] to [[Cuamba]] near the [[Malawi]]an border; another runs from [[Maputo]] to [[Chicualacuala]] at the border with Zimbabwe; and the last one connects Maputo with the border to [[South Africa]]. ==== From Malawi==== This line connects [[Nampula]] with [[Cuamba]] (near the Malawi border). The train carries first, second and third-class passengers and is usually packed. From Nampula, the train leaves around 05:00-06:00, although you should arrive earlier to buy tickets from the booking office at the station. The area is packed with people traveling towards Malawi so expect queues. Once on board the journey is long and slow but fairly efficient and will get to Cuamba mid-afternoon. From here ''chapas'' will take you to the border (Entre Lagos) as only freight trains use this bit of the line. Even hardened African travelers will likely find this stretch of road very rough: expect it to take a fair amount of time. Once at Entre Lagos, the border formalities are in the station building (easy to find as the town is a typical small border town). The process can take some time as this is a little-used crossing. From here it is about a 1-km walk to the Malawi side of the border. The Malawi border closes before the Mozambique one, although there is a guesthouse if you get trapped. The easiest way to get from here to Liwonde is by train - sweet-talk the guards and they may let you share their compartment. ==== From South Africa ==== There are daily trains to [[Maputo]] from the border town of [[Ressano Garcia]] and the Lebombo border crossing. [[Komatipoort]], located just across the border in [[South Africa]] sees multiple trains from [[Johannesburg]] and [[Pretoria]] every week. ==== From Zimbabwe ==== A train runs from [[Bulawayo]] to the border town of Chicualacuala, where there is a connecting train to Maputo. ===By car=== In order to enter Mozambique by car you will need the original registration documents and if it is not your vehicle a letter from the owner granting permission to take the vehicle in to Mozambique. All foreign vehicles are required to have third party insurance, which is available at many borders for 150 South African rand, and also to pay road tax which of 26.50 MT. ====From South Africa==== * {{listing | name=Johannesburg (Lebombo/Ressano Garcia) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=N4 towards Mbombela, follow it until you reach the border just after Komatipoort | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open 06:00-19:00 (occasionally open 24 hours during busy periods) | price= | content=On the Mozambican side follow the EN4 for a further 100 km to reach Maputo. The stretch of the EN4 after the border leading up to the border has two toll stations that can be paid in US dollars, euros, South African rand or meticales. Change is provided in meticais. }} * {{listing | name=Kruger Park (Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Enter Kruger Park from Phalaborwa Gate and follow the signs for 95km to the Giriyondo Border Post. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open Apr-Sep 08:00 to 15:00, and Oct-Mar 08:00 to 16:00 | price= | content='''Caution 4WD only.''' On entering Mozambique you will be charged a conservation fee for entering Parque Nacional do Limpopo which is 200 MT/R67/USD10 per person and per vehicle. You do not need 3rd party insurance unless you exit Parque Nacional do Limpopo but this can be purchased at the park exit gate to Massingir. }} * {{listing | name=Kosi Bay | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Follow the R22 from Kosi Bay to the Mozambique border (signed as Ponta d'Ouro) and then take the right road as you leave the border then keep left until Ponta d'Ouro | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 07:30 to 17:30 | price= | content=The Kosi Bay Border is 630 km from Joburg or 460 km from Durban and is open 7 days a week. It closes at 17:00 (Google has this as 16:00, and some people are told it is 18:00). It borders the Ponta do Ouro border post in Mozambique 'Caution 4WD only'. Due to the use of seasonal dirt roads after the border it is advisable to use a GPS route provided by someone who has recently completed the journey. Access to Maputo used to be via a ferry service (R45) in Catembe. The new Maputo-Katembe Bridge linking KwaZulu-Natal and Mozambique, which at 3,041 m is the longest suspension bridge in Africa, reduces the travel time between Kosi Bay (on the KZN border) & Maputo from six hours to just 90 minutes. It opens up into the Mozambican National Park which has many speed bumps and changing speed zones which you need to be cognisant of if you want to avoid being stopped or fine }} ====From Eswatini==== * {{listing | name=Mhlumeni | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:00-18:00 | price= | content=Easily one the quietest and easiest of all the Mozambique borders to pass through, it is deserted most of the time. Getting a visa and 3rd party insurance at this border can be problematic so arrange ahead of time. If coming from Johannesburg and traveling over the weekend or during South African holidays you can expect to save at least an hour transiting via Eswatini to this border compared to using Ressano Garcia. }} * {{listing | name=Namaacha | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:00-20:00 | price= | content=The busier of the two Eswatini/Mozambique border posts and is very busy over weekend and holiday periods. }} ===By bus=== [[File:Public transport Muidumbe - Mueda (7660759658).jpg|thumb|Public transport in the north of the country]] ====From Malawi==== There are a number of border crossings to/from Malawi. By far the easiest and most frequently plied is at [[Zobue|Zóbuè]]. The road is in good condition. Daily ''chapas'' run to/from [[Tete]] to the border, where you will have to walk about 300 m to get to Malawian transport. Daily through buses from [[Chimoio]] and [[Beira]] also use this crossing. There is another border crossing to the north, at [[Dedza]], which may be more convenient for [[Lilongwe]] but the public transport on either side can be sporadic. To leave/enter Malawi to the east, there are two crossings, [[Milange]] and [[Mandimba]]. Milange is in the south-east of Malawi, and to get there you need to catch one of the daily vehicles that run between [[Mocuba]] and Milange. At Milange there is a 2-km walk to the border, and then another 1km to where Malawian transport leaves. Mandimba is further north, used mainly to get to Malawi from [[Lichinga]]. Several vehicles run daily between Lichinga and Mandimba, from where it is another 7 km to the border. Hitching is relatively easy, or bicycle-taxis do the trip for about US$1. It is also possible to cross the Lake - see [[#By boat]] below. ====From South Africa==== You can take the '''[http://www.intercape.co.za/ Intercape Mainliner]''', {{phone|+27 861 287 287}}, from [[Johannesburg]] to [[Maputo]]. These buses run in both directions on a regular basis, one in the morning, and another overnight, and are safe and affordable. Other carriers include '''[http://www.greyhound.co.za Greyhound]''' and '''[http://www.translux.co.za Translux]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. If you intend on obtaining a visa at the border you should only purchase a ticket as far as the border, bus companies will not permit you to board with a ticket to Maputo if you are not in possession of a visa. If you ask the bus conductor they will help you obtain a visa at the border and avoid the usually extremely long wait at the Mozambique side. Once through immigration either re board the bus and pay the fare to Maputo on board or pick up a minibus taxi to Maputo from the border. Three times per week there are bus connections to and from [[Durban]] (via [[Big Bend (Eswatini)|Big Bend]], [[Eswatini]]). There is also a service from [[Mbombela]] and [[Komatipoort]] to Maputo. There are the "taxis" to and from any destination in South Africa at affordable prices from 04:00 to 00:00. ====From Eswatini==== Chapas leave from both [[Manzini]] and [[Mbabane]] to Maputo via Goba typically around 11:00. Usefully they arrive in to Baixa (and can drop you at 24 de Julho) so you are within walking distance of both Fatima's and Base. The fare is R150 as of January 2024. ====From Tanzania==== The border between Mozambique and Tanzania is formed by the River Rovuma. Daily pick-ups connect [[Moçimboa da Praia]] with [[Palma]] and [[Namiranga]], the border post on the Mozambique side. The main route runs from [[Moçimboa da Praia]] (on the Mozambiquan side), via [[Palma]] (Mozambique), to [[Mtwara]] (on the Tanzanian side) and vice versa. It is recommended to take 2 days over this trip due to the low quality of the roads on the Mozambique side, and the low level of traffic. When coming from Tanzania, lifts depart from [[Mtwara]] and [[Kilambo]] to the Rovuma river. Kilambo is a small place with one road running through it, so lifts should be easy to find. Mtwara is much larger however, so ask the locals where and when lifts leave from. When coming from Mozambique, your lift to the river will normally start from either Palma (more likely), or - if you're lucky - [[Moçimboa da Praia]] and go to the border post at Namiranga. It will generally wait for you to have your passport stamped at the border post (a mud hut in Namiranga). During the wet season, your lift will then probably drive to the banks of the Rovuma. During the dry season it will drive you to the end of the road, from which there is a walk of between 1 and 2 km (depending on the water level that day) to the Rovuma river. There is an unreliable ferry that goes across the river. Typically however, the crossing is done by dugout canoes or slightly larger wooden motorboats. The trip across the river shouldn't cost more than around US$8, but can only normally be paid for using Tanzanian shillings, although if you find yourself without these, there are plenty of locals who will offer you "generous" exchange rates for your hard-earned Dollars and Meticais. If water levels are low you may have to wade to get to and from your boat on the Tanzanian side, so possessing a heavy-duty waterproof sack may be a good idea, but it is by no means essential. On the Tanzanian side you will often find yourself mobbed by people offering you transport. Pick-pocketing is common on both sides of the river, so care must be taken whilst finding transport to the nearby towns, a good method of reducing your trouble is to befriend a local on the boatride over, you will find most of your fellow travellers are willing to help you in one way or another. Transport then carries you on to the Tanzanian border post at Kilambo, and normally, further on to Mtwara, the capital of Southern Tanzania. For further information and up-to-date news on this crossing, go to "Russell's Place" (also known as Cashew Camp) in Pemba. There are other crossings to Tanzania, but these all require long walks. Ask around for local information. ====From Zambia==== The main crossing is at [[Cassacatiza]], north-west of [[Tete]]. This border is in good condition, but lightly traveled. Daily chapas run between Tete and Matema, from there the public transport is sporadic. The best way to travel from Mozambique to Zambia is to go via Malawi. ====From Zimbabwe==== There are two crossings - [[Nyamapanda]] (south-west of [[Tete]]), and [[Machipanda]] (west of [[Chimoio]]). Both are heavily traveled, especially Machipanda due to its location at the end of the Beira Corridor. ===By boat=== [[File:Mozambique Island Bridge.jpg|thumb|Bridge to Ilha de Mozambique]] There is no scheduled sea travel to and from Mozambique. ====Tanzania==== Outside of monsoon season it may be possible to hire a dhow from [[Tanzania]] down to Mozambique but this will generally be extremely expensive. The Tanzanian ports of [[Mikindani]], [[Mtwara]] and [[Msimbati]] are all within range of Mozambique and will be the best places to secure dhow transport. In reverse the ports of [[Moçimboa da Praia]] and [[Palma]] are the two best ports on the Mozambique side to find a dhow to Tanzania. ====Malawi==== The MV Ilala operates across [[Lake Malawi]] from [[Monkey Bay]], [[Chilumba]], [[Nkhata Bay]] to [[Likoma Island]]. From [[Likoma Island]] it is a 3-km boat ride to the Mozambique border at [[Cobue]]. It is possible to travel across Lake Niassa (Lake Malawi), though international travelers must legally enter through a border post and have the appropriate documentation (visas, etc. depending on nationality). Once on the Mozambique side, local transport would need to be arranged. Taking the Ilala ferry is certainly a once in a lifetime experience. Sleeping on the upper deck of this second world war ferry and watching the sunrise over far rolling hills along the Mozambican and Malawian coast is breath taking. You can enter the ferry from any of the harbors where the ferry arrives. IF you plan to travel on to Malawi, you should get on the ferry at the harbor in Metangula. ==Get around== ===By car=== Traffic is left-handed, cars are often in poor conditio, and drivers may not know or respect traffic rules. Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs is common, especially at night and on weekends. Driving after dark outside the city is not recommended. Keep car windows closed and doors locked, especially when stopping at intersections. Driving can lead to being stopped by the police for bribes. There have also been cases of carjacking. It is not a good idea to pick up strangers.[[File:Estrada Nacional EN12 (5983637047).jpg|thumb|EN12 highway]] The EN1 runs the length of the country generally staying close to the coast from Maputo up. Roads throughout the country are generally in poor condition, especially when compared to South Africa, although the stretch of the EN1 between Maputo and Inchope is in decent condition with the exception of the 120 km directly north of Vilankulo and the last 100 km south of Inchope which are still in decrepit condition and pose a serious challenge to any driver in a low clearance vehicle. The EN1 from Mocuba to Nampula and further to Ilha de Moçambique is in good condition. The EN6 between the Machipanda border crossing with Zimbabwe and Inchope is in good condition, but deteriorates considerably between Inchope and Beira, becoming almost impassable at points. North of Vilankulo service stations are scarce - motorists may go 150 km between service stations so fill up at every opportunity. South African company [https://bushlore.com Bushlore] rents 4x4 vehicles and campers and will facilitate cross-border trips with flexible pick-ups and drop-offs. ===Chapas and buses=== '''Buses''' and '''chapas''' leave early in Mozambique: 04:00 is not unusual, particularly as you go further north. Chapas take the form of both mini & midi buses but often pick up trucks and cargo trucks will offer a ride for the same fare as a chapa. Government and privately owned buses ply the same routes as Chapas but typically stop a great deal more often so are inadvisable for anything other than short journeys. The chapas themselves, particularly on shorter routes, are generally in shockingly poor condition. Expect seats, doors and interiors falling apart. The Mozambican government regulates prices on key routes which means chapa travel in Mozambique is extremely good value. In larger cities this translates to signs with destinations and prices in chapa stations (EG - Junta in Maputo), these prices will not come down no matter how hard you negotiate but many an enterprising chapa conductor/navigator/bouncer will try to extort you if you are silly enough to ask what a price is. If in doubt ask at your hotel, a local or as a last resort simply hand them a large note; often they will assume you know the correct fare and give you the correct change. There are government registered chapas and unregistered chapas. While both are unsafe and are in many accidents each year, always take the government chapas. These can be recognized by being the large buses. These buses are newer and thus slightly safer. They cost slightly more (at the time this was written they were 10 MT a journey, and unregistered were 5). Unregistered chapas though are extremely dangerous and overcrowded and should never be used if you can help it. ===Taxis=== Once only found in [[Maputo]] taxis can now be found in many cities throughout the country. They never have meters so you must negotiate regarding cost before your journey. Taxis are often in as perilous condition as chapas (from balding tires to someone sitting in the passenger seat holding a plastic gas can with the cars fuel line going in to it) and breakdowns should be considered likely. Never pay for your journey until you reach your destination. If you are female, never take a taxi alone, especially not one found on the side of the road. If you must, ask around for the number of a trusted taxi driver who will come pick you up and can usually be there in under half an hour depending on how far away they are. Always add ten minutes or more to how long they say they will take to collect you though. In Maputo there is a flat rate of 200 MT for any journey in the city center. Longer journeys (EG to Junta) cost 400 MT and up. In the early morning they will often attempt to gouge you, doubling the price to 400 MT, as there are often very few taxis about at this time. Chapas can also be rented as taxis but are typically more expensive and far less comfortable. ===Air=== Domestic '''flights''' are the fastest and most sane way to get around the country if you can afford it. [http://www.lam.co.mz Linhas Aereas de Moçambique] flies between the major cities. The flights themselves are actually on extremely modern, clean and well maintained planes and are a stark contrast to the other transport options in the country. However, be warned that all airlines from the country including LAM are listed on the [http://ec.europa.eu/transport/modes/air/safety/air-ban/doc/list_en.pdf EU air safety list] as of June 2015 and are therefore banned from operating in the European airspace. LAM operate an old style booking system where you can reserve a flight over the telephone and then pay for it on check in. If you do use this facility ensure that you confirm your flight 72 hours before departure or your reservation will likely be canceled. Alternatively all LAM offices in towns and airports can book and receive payment for flights throughout the country. It is not advisable to pay using credit card due to the level of corruption present in all state enterprises including LAM. ===Rail=== '''Trains''' aren't really very useful, considering there's only one and it's in the far north of the country traveling from [[Nampula]] to [[Cuamba]] near the [[Malawi]]an border. See ''get in'' above for more details. Mine clearance from the old coastal railway running the length of the country has been finished in many areas but with the costs involved and the level of corruption in the country it will be decades before any rail service with reasonable coverage arrives in the country. ==Talk== The official language of Mozambique is [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]], though many people speak English in the capital Maputo and in touristy areas. The further north you travel the less likely you are to encounter English speakers, and as you enter more rural areas even Portuguese is limited. Mozambicans speak standard Portuguese (European Portuguese), and it is spoken as a lingua franca or second language of speakers of various native languages. [[Swahili phrasebook|Swahili]] is useful in the far north of the country as you get close to Tanzania, especially along the coast, and [[Nyanja phrasebook|Nyanja]] is spoken near the border with Malawi and Zambia. Some native words from the Shona language can be useful if you are traveling near Cabora Bassa. ==See== [[File:Maputo-aerial.jpg|thumb|Maputo]] * [[Ilha de Mozambique]], i.e. Mozambique Island is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mozambique. The island boasts colonial architecture including probably the oldest European building in the Southern Hemisphere and beaches. * The historic town of [[Inhambane]]. * Sites from the civil war all over the country and the Museum of Revolution in [[Maputo]] to learn more about recent events in the country's history * Wildlife and nature in [[Gorongosa National Park]]. ==Do== * '''Dive''', see [[Diving in Mozambique]] for details. * '''Tours and Safaris''', a number of tour operators can help you reach Mozambique's highlights. The most reputable as per guide books Lonely Planet and Bradt are Mozaic Travel [http://www.mozaictravel.com]{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Dana Tours in the south, and Kaskazini in the north. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mozambican meticais | currencyCode=MT | date=January 2025 | USD=64 | EUR=75 | GBP=87 | ZAR=3.6 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mzn-mozambican-metical XE.com] }} The currency of Mozambique is the '''new metical''' (plural ''meticais'', pronounced 'meta-caysh'), denoted by the symbol "'''MT'''" (ISO code: '''MZN'''). It may also be called ''Meticais Nova Família''. It is notionally divided into 100 centavos. Three zeroes were dropped from the currency in 2006. Old currency can no longer be exchanged at banks. People will occasionally still refer to the old currency, so if someone asks for "1 million", they generally mean one thousand new meticais. Coins of Mozambique are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 centavos, 1, 2, 5 and 10 meticais. Banknotes of Mozambique are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 meticais. Many businesses in the tourist centers are run by [[South Africa]]ns and prices are often quoted in rand (for which the usual abbreviation is ZAR). In this guide prices are also quoted in rand when applicable. US dollars, rand, British pounds and Euros are freely convertible at commercial rates at any bank or exchange. Other currencies such as Canadian or Australian dollars or Japanese yen, are not accepted anywhere, even at official banks and exchanges. There is very little black market currency exchange, since the commercial exchanges offer the best market rate. You cannot exchange meticais outside Mozambique, but you can convert them back at exchanges prior to leaving the country. Also you cannot buy meticais outside Moçambique. '''ATMs''' are present throughout the country; '''BCI, Standard Bank''', '''Eco Bank''', '''Millennium BIM''' are the banks you are most likely to run in to. BCI, Standard and Eco Bank accepts Visa & MasterCard, Millennium accepts all international cards including Maestro/Cirrus cards. ATMs have transaction limits on withdrawals, which vary with the bank. Millennium bank limits withdrawals to 3,000 MT, and Standard Bank and Eco Bank to 10,000 MT; you can always insert your card again to withdraw more money. BCI and Ecobank atms have no withdraw fee for overseas cards. ===Shopping=== Everything in Mozambique that does not have a price attached can be bargained down to whatever you consider a reasonable price to be. Remember that while laughing when they give you an insane price is perfectly OK you should not get outwardly angry or hostile, you will be unlikely to get a reasonable price if you do. If in doubt about what a fair price is ask your hotel. No one in Mozambique, including often backpacker lodges, have change. The 1000 MT and 500 MT are almost impossible to use day to day, so change them down in to more manageable notes in any bank. The one exception to this rule is chapa drivers, if you find yourself running low on small bills pay for your 15 MT fare with a 100 MT note. ==Eat== [[File:Lobster night.jpg|thumb|Lobsters!]] As a country the [[Portugal|Portuguese ]]<nowiki/>occupation has a profound impact on local foods that has produced some of the most unique and interesting cuisine within Southern Africa. Towards the coast a great deal of seafood is used within even the most basic of dishes, however, in land the maize based partridges common throughout Africa becomes staple but with some Portuguese flair. * '''Piri-Piri''', also known as the '''African bird's-eye chili''' this extremely strong chili is common in sauce form throughout the country. * '''Pãozinho ''', also known as '''Portuguese rolls''' or '''Prego (beef) no pão and bifana (fried pork) '''. A floury and often semi-sweet bread roll, typically served with meat in the center. * '''Matapa''', a seafood (clam, crab or prawn) stew made with cassava leaves and generally served over rice. This is one of the Mozambique staples. * '''Camarão National''', are Mozambican prawns marinaded in a Piri-Piri, garlic, onion, lemon and vinegar. * '''Cray fish''' and '''other seafood'''. These are caught off the beach throughout the country and will generally be prepared with a piri-piri marinade, served with rice and matapa. * '''Kakana''' This is a bitter tasting local vegetable. ==Drink== <!--DO NOT add any bar or club listings to the country article. They belong in the relevant city article---> All tap water in Mozambique should be assumed to be unsafe to drink, even if it is not harmful it usually has some sediment that your stomach will not be used to. Most western oriented lodgings either provide a fresh water source or sell bottled water. ===Beer=== In Mozambique '''Cervejas de Mocambique''' have a virtual monopoly on beer brewing. The three most popular brands are 2M (remember to pronounce it doysh-em or you will end up with an extra beer), Laurentina Clara and Manica. Other local African beers such as Castle and Windhoek are reasonably widely available but are not as popular as in neighboring countries due to the high quality of the local brews. ===Liquors=== Locally produced spirits such as vodka and gin are relatively common throughout the country and are relatively inexpensive. The local drink is Cashu made of the peel from the cashew nut. According to the locals it's very good for a man's libido. It has a sour taste. Many chain and local supermarkets do not sell alcohol in Mozambique: you will need to find a specific liquor store close by. <!--DO NOT add any bar or club listings to the country article. They belong in the relevant city article---> ==Sleep== Accommodation ranges from inexpensive guesthouses and backpacker-oriented accommodation through to some of the most expensive resort accommodation in the region. [[File:Un bungalow - 2012-06-13 - 75154600.jpg|thumb|Bungalow]] ===Hotels=== Hotels in Mozambique are generally ungraded and, particularly in the less traveled parts of the country, have not been updated since independence. In some cases you can pay up to $50USD a night for a hotel room that should be in the US$5–10 range based on facilities. On the other end of the scale Mozambique hosts some of the most incredible, and expensive, hotels and resorts in the world. ===Backpacker lodges=== [[Maputo]], [[Tofo Beach]], [[Vilanculos]], [[Chimoio]] and [[Pemba]] have backpacker lodges and are geared up for the budget traveler. There are some backpacker options elsewhere in the country but often the only option for a budget traveler will be transient labor guesthouses or cheap hotels. ===Self-catering=== In most major tourist areas many self-catering options exist. If you do bring your own gas based cooking equipment, keep in mind that the typical backpacker Lindal valve gas canisters are not available anywhere in the country. ===Camping and caravaning=== Dedicated camp sites with security are available in almost all coastal towns and you can often camp in rural areas with a village chief's blessing (If you do decide to use this option a small offering such as food, liquor or cigarettes can be very useful). If taking a caravan keep in mind that a great deal of roads in Mozambique degenerate in to sandy paths that require 4WD, it is advisable to only stick to popular areas along the EN1. ===Purchasing land or property=== If someone offers to "sell" you land in Mozambique walk away immediately, it is a scam. Private ownership of land in Mozambique is impossible, all land is owned by the government and will only be provided for foreign use, under a 99-year lease, under very specific circumstances. ==Learn== * '''Universidade Eduardo Mondlane''', [http://www.uem.mz] is the oldest and largest university in the country. ==Work== * You may be able to find work '''teaching''' at a school such as The American International School of Mozambique [http://www.aism-moz.com/?Page=Employment]. * If you're a certified divemaster or instructor you could try helping out at one of the '''dive shops''' in [[Tofo Beach]], [[Vilanculos]] or [[Ponta d'Ouro]]. ==Stay safe== [[File:Lighthouse (8541084669).jpg|thumb|Lighthouse in Beira]] Risks are much the same as many other countries in Africa (and significantly less than some, including parts of South Africa). Nevertheless muggings, robberies, rape and murder do occur, so the normal precautions should be taken. Women absolutely should never walk alone on beaches. Attacks on women have grown in tourist areas. In particular it's worth checking with local hostels and other tourists as to where dangerous areas are. But in general the Mozambican people are extremely warm and friendly and you will encounter far less hassle than in almost all of the countries surrounding it. ===Police=== In Mozambique the police do not exist to help you, only to try and extort money from you. Do not trust them under any circumstances. Insisting on being taken to a police station is unlikely to improve your situation, with the exception of in Maputo, the police have been known to rob tourists blind and throw them in a cell. Instead mention contacting your embassy or the anti-corruption hot line to verify a fine and always ask for a receipt. If you have cause to go to a police station (''e.g.'', filing a police report for insurance purposes after a theft), do not take any valuables or excessive currency with you and try to ''always'' go with someone else. '''At airports:''' While airport security personnel typically prioritize ensuring the safety of passengers and aircraft, there have been reported cases of opportunistic individuals taking advantage of their position to pilfer travelers' belongings, including cash, credit cards, and other valuables. To minimize the risk of becoming a victim of such theft, it's crucial to adopt precautionary measures. # Travel with a minimum of cash: Only carry the amount of cash you'll need for immediate expenses, such as transportation, meals, and incidentals. # Employ travel cards instead of cash: Travel cards, including credit cards and debit cards, offer greater protection than cash. They're linked to your bank account and can be used to make purchases and withdraw cash from ATMs. However, inform your bank of your travel itinerary beforehand to prevent your card from being flagged for suspicious activity. # Explore digital payment methods: Mobile wallets and other digital payment methods are becoming increasingly popular and convenient for travelers. These methods allow for contactless payments without the need to carry cash or cards. # Stay vigilant: Maintain constant vigilance over your belongings. ====Speed limits==== In Mozambique the speed limit in town is 60 km/h (unless there are road signs to the contrary ) and 100 km/h elsewhere. There are mobile speed traps on the EN1 which specifically target foreign visitors. ====Bribery==== When dealing with the Mozambican police never suggest a bribe, simply listen to whatever lecture they care to give and ask "What can we do about this?" Often they will simply let you go, if they do ask for a bribe the amount is entirely negotiable and can range from a bottle of coke (carrying no identification) through to several hundred US dollars (minor drug infractions). ====Identification==== By law you must carry a form of identification with you at all times and present it to the police on request. As a result you should always carry a notarized copy of your passport photo page, visa and entry stamp with you at all times. Ask your hotel where to locate a notary or contact your local embassy as soon as you enter the country. In Maputo, there is one on Av. Lenine, close to Mimmo's, and another on Av. Armando Tivane (one block west of Av. Nyerere) between Av. Mao Tse-Tung and Av. 24 de Julho. They are not particularly easy to find, ask around. If you are asked for identification by the police and you do not have a notarized copy under no circumstances give them your passport, if you do then it will likely cost you a great deal of money to get it back; often simply talking to them a while will get them to go away. ===Land mines=== While most of the country has been cleared there is still an on-going risk in rural areas away from the EN1 in Sofala, Tete, Manica, Gaza, Inhambane and Maputo provinces. Only 2 or 3 incidents a year occur with landmines and they are all well outside the tourist trail. ==Stay healthy== * '''Malarial prophylaxis''' is essential in all parts of Mozambique. Chloroquine/Paludrine are now as ineffective as in other parts of east Africa, and it's worth going to see your doctor to get decent protection. If you are in country and suspect you have malaria there are clinics in every town that will administer a test for approximately 50 MT, the treatment also costs 50 MT if you have malaria. * '''Get all your vaccinations before arriving''' Medical facilities in Mozambique are now generally reasonably stocked, but it is always worth getting a range of vaccinations before you leave. Prevention is better than cure. It is worth considering carrying some clean needles/sterile set if you are visiting out of the way areas, purely as remote medical facilities may have problems getting hold of them. [[File:Nshima and mice.JPG|thumb|Mice, anyone?]] * '''Mind what you eat.''' As common in most countries in the world, if you are concerned about the standards of hygiene in a place, don't eat there. * '''Do not have unprotected sex.''' As in many parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, there is a very high HIV incidence, at 12.5% ([https://phia.icap.columbia.edu/countries/mozambique/#:~:text=The%20Mozambique%20PHIA%20survey%2C%20also,and%20interviewed%20over%2017%2C000%20participants. National HIV Survey, 2021]) * '''Do not drink tap water or use any ice.''' South of the Zambezi river that divides the country, Mozambique is much more developed, especially around Maputo, tourist areas such as Inhambane and the industrial city of Beira. Here, especially in built-up areas, it is safe to drink the tap water, hence water in this area is marketed as "mineral water" and not "drinking water" and is sold at an inflated price as a semi-luxury item (sometimes for as much as 50 or 60 MT in backpackers lodges and restaurants). The infrastructure in the north of the country is much less developed and, as such, caution must be exercised, especially in rural areas and the area near Palma and bordering Tanzania. The tap water is usually safe to drink in the main cities such as Nampula and Pemba, and on Mozambique Island. If you are ever unsure about the quality of the tap water, water-purifying liquids (normally chlorine-based) are widely available and very cheap, costing around 40 cents for a large bottle - the most popular brand is "Certeza" and it is easy to find. You could also consider bringing puri-tabs if you are planning on going well off the "beaten track". * '''Private clinics.''' There are a few private health clinics in Maputo that will also arrange repatriation in emergencies. Clinica da Sommerschield (tel: 21 493924) Clinica Suedoise (tel: 21 492922). *'''Electric showers'''. In any accommodation, check the shower fitting. A rather dangerous type manufactured in Brazil is popular: it contains an ungrounded 4 kW electric heater. Do not touch the fitting when in use, as they have been known to give severe electric shocks. Better still, switch the power off (there should be a nearby circuit breaker) and have a cold shower. Be similarly cautious with any other type of electrical shower heater. ==Connect== ===Mobile phones=== [https://movitel.co.mz/ '''Movitel'''] is becoming the most popular carrier in the country. There is also the South-African owned '''[https://www.vm.co.mz/ Vodacom Mozambique]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''Vodacom have 4G in many towns and GPRS Edge elsewhere. The APN is internet. Check your phone manual for setting instructions. The mCel service is not entirely reliable, especially outside Maputo. Vodacom is generally very good. Many Mozambicans think Movitel has the fastest internet, especially outside Maputo. While it is OK to buy credit from the hundreds of vendors roaming the streets wearing mCel or Vodacom shirts you should never buy SIM cards and starter packs, in many cases they sell them at hugely inflated prices and often they will be from one of the many recalled batches that no longer work. Any mobile phone store can sell you a working starter pack for around 50 MT. ===Internet=== Internet is widely available in Maputo, with many internet cafes and all major hotels having internet access. The cell phone providers - mCel, Vodacom, and Movitel - have introduced internet to cellphone and USB modems. See above for further information. Outside Maputo internet coverage is sporadic and mostly available in places frequented by tourists. Local Telecommunication de Mozambique (TDM) offices almost always have internet although speed and availability can be problematic. ===Radio=== There are many FM stations in Maputo, offering a variety of music and speech. Away from the capital, Radio Mozambique will be heard in many places and BBC World Service have their English/Portuguese service in the main cities. There are numerous small community radio stations serving smaller towns/villages. A new radio station called LM Radio (Lifetime Music Radio), broadcasts in English on 87.8 FM in Maputo and Matola. The radio station offers a wide range of music from the 1960s, 70s and 80s together with a blend of modern day music in the same style and flavor. The radio station also provides regular travel and safety tips for visitors to Mozambique. {{geo|-19|35|zoom=6}} {{isPartOf|Southern Africa}} {{outlinecountry}} {{related|African_National_Parks}} {{related|African_flora_and_fauna}} {{related|Discount_airlines_in_Africa}} 9g9a62wbo7vhacaf5remy1fsf5oqtw8 5091337 5091336 2025-07-11T10:41:06Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091337 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Island of Mozambique banner Small boats.jpg|caption=Boats outside Ilha de Mozambique}} '''Mozambique''' (Portuguese: ''Moçambique'') is a country on the Indian Ocean coast of [[Southern Africa]]. From the Monte Binga peak, {{m|2,436}} high, to the stunning beaches along the coast, Mozambique is a country of contrasts. As well as some of the best colonial era architecture and relics to be found on the continent, Mozambique has also preserved its African cultural heritage, which can be experienced through art, music and food. Its eastern coastline along the Indian Ocean is more than 1,000 km long, a fantastic draw for scuba divers, fishermen, sailors and beach lovers. ==Regions== Mozambique has 10 provinces that can be grouped into the following three regions: {{Regionlist| regionmap=Mozambique regions.svg | regionmapsize=400px | region1name=[[Northern Mozambique]] | region1color=#71b37b | region1items= | region1description=Cabo Delgado, Nampula and Niassa provinces| region2name=[[Central Mozambique]] | region2color=#8a84a3 | region2items= | region2description=Manica, Sofala, Tete and Zambézia provinces| region4name=[[Southern Mozambique]] | region4color=#d09440 | region4items= | region4description=Gaza, Inhambane and Maputo provinces, and the Bazaruto National Sea Park| }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Northern Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q14227435}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#8a84a3|title=[[Central Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q14210533}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d09440|title=[[Southern Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q14234730}} ==Cities== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Maputo]]|wikidata=Q3889}} - the thriving capital in the far south of the country. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Beira]]|wikidata=Q211563}} - a busy port town and capital of Sofala Province. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ilha de Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q331099}} - a [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]] and the former capital under Portuguese rule. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Inhambane]]|wikidata=Q456577}} - a pretty historic town on a bay. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Nampula]]|wikidata=Q323801}} - an industrial city in the north and capital of Nampula Province. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pemba]]|wikidata=Q498048}} - in Northern Mozambique, a popular holiday destination for Mozambicans, although its isolation has kept it off the tourist route for most European visitors. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chimoio]]|wikidata=Q498048}} - in Central Mozambique, capital of Manica Province, point of departure to visit Chimanimani National Park and Mount Binga (tallest peak in Mozambique), transitional point to Zimbabwe and Malawi. ==Other destinations== * {{marker|name=[[Bazaruto Archipelago]]|wikidata=Q2860206}} &mdash; a beautiful island resort and underwater marine park with great diving, geared to high-end tourism. * {{marker|name=[[Cahora Bassa]]|wikidata=Q755015}} dam &mdash; hydro-electric dam on the Zambezi river and the second largest man-made lake in Africa. * {{marker|name=[[Gorongosa National Park]]|wikidata=Q113952}} * {{marker|name=[[Ilha de Mozambique]]|wikidata=Q331099}} &mdash; Former colonial capital with a historical heritage that's among the most well kept in Mozambique, and indeed in all of Africa. A [[UNESCO World Heritage site]] since 1991. * {{marker|name=[[Limpopo National Park]]|wikidata=Q1968897}} * {{marker|name=[[Ponta d'Ouro]]|wikidata=Q2043834}} &mdash; a great dive spot, more easily accessible from South Africa than from Maputo. * {{marker|name=[[Quirimbas Islands|Quirimbas Archipelago and National Park]]|wikidata=Q1546990}} &mdash; at the north of the country, a scenic and secluded holiday destination off the beaten track with lush African bush on the mainland and white sand beaches/crystal blue water in the Archipelago and on the coast. Accessible through [[Pemba]]. * {{marker|name=[[Tofo Beach]]|wikidata=Q3530336}} &mdash; a backpacker haven on the coastline east of Inhambane with excellent diving. And whalesharks!! * {{marker|name=[[Vilanculos]]|wikidata=Q2006546}} /Vilankulo &mdash; a popular holiday destination and gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago. ==Understand== {{quickbar|location=LocationMozambique.png}} ===Geography=== Mozambique stretches for 1,535 mi (2,470 km) along Africa's southeast coast. It is nearly twice the size of California. Tanzania is to the north; Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe to the west; and South Africa and Eswatini to the south. The country is generally a low-lying plateau broken up by 25 sizable rivers that flow into the Indian Ocean. The largest is the Zambezi, which provides access to central Africa. In the interior, several chains of mountains form the backbone of the country. ===History=== [[File:Fortaleza de São Sebastião-01.jpg|thumb|Fortaleza de São Sebastião, [[Ilha de Mozambique]], among the oldest surviving European buildings in the Southern Hemisphere]] Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama reached Mozambique in 1498, as a waypoint on the [[Cape Route]] to [[India]]. In 1500, the Portuguese established a string of forts and posts up and down the coast, starting with present day ''Ilha de Moçambique'' or Mozambique Island (at that time simply known as Mozambique and where the country gets its modern name), where the Portuguese plied the spice and slave routes from Mozambique up until 1891. After [[World War I]], Portuguese investment in commercial, industrial, agricultural, educational, transportation, and health care infrastructure for the indigenous population started providing for better social and economic possibilities and these continued to gain pace up until independence in 1975. In 1962, several anti-colonial political groups formed the Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO), which initiated an armed campaign against Portuguese colonial rule. Mozambique became independent after ten years of sporadic warfare on June 25, 1975. FRELIMO took complete control of the territory after a transition period and within a year of independence, almost all the Portuguese colonists had left Mozambique – some expelled by the new government of Mozambique, some fleeing in fear. Upon independence, Mozambique had fewer than 5 engineers in the entire country and the previous colonial infrastructure investments stopped entirely resulting in the rapid disintegration of much of Mozambique's infrastructure. FRELIMO responded to their lack of resources and the Cold War politics of the mid-1970s by moving into alignment with the Soviet Union and its allies. FRELIMO established a one-party Socialist state, and quickly received substantial international aid from Cuba and the Soviet bloc nations. In 1975, the Mozambican National Resistance (RENAMO), an anti-communist group sponsored by the Rhodesian Intelligence Service, the apartheid government in South Africa and the United States after Zimbabwe's independence, was founded and launched a series of attacks on transport routes, schools and health clinics, and the country descended into civil war; see also [[20th-century South Africa]]. In 1990, with apartheid crumbling in South Africa, and support for RENAMO drying up in South Africa and in the United States, the first direct talks between the FRELIMO government and Renamo were held. In November 1990, a new constitution was adopted. Mozambique was now a multiparty state, with periodic elections, and guaranteed democratic rights. With the signing of the Rome General Peace Accords, the civil war ended on October 15, 1992. ===Climate=== {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = 30 | febhigh = 30 | marhigh = 30 | aprhigh = 29 | mayhigh = 27 | junhigh = 25 | julhigh = 25 | aughigh = 26 | sephigh = 27 | octhigh = 28 | novhigh = 29 | dechigh = 30 | janlow = 22 | feblow = 22 | marlow = 21 | aprlow = 19 | maylow = 16 | junlow = 14 | jullow = 14 | auglow = 15 | seplow = 16 | octlow = 18 | novlow = 20 | declow = 21 | janprecip = 130 | febprecip = 124 | marprecip = 97 | aprprecip = 64 | mayprecip = 28 | junprecip = 27 | julprecip = 13 | augprecip = 13 | sepprecip = 38 | octprecip = 46 | novprecip = 86 | decprecip = 103 }} Almost all of Mozambique is within the tropics, so Mozambique features a mostly tropical climate. Along the coast Mozambique has a warm, tropical climate. Evenings are rarely cold, except for a few nights in June and July and the rainfall isn't too high. In summer, temperatures can soar and the humidity levels rise. Temperatures are typically higher in the north, around Pemba, and around the Zambezi. The interior plains generally have a higher temperature than that of the coast and have higher rainfall throughout the year. The mountainous regions generally remain cool throughout the year. For up-to date weather forecasts and tide tables visit http://www.climateandweather.com/weather-in-mozambique{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ===Public holidays=== [[File:Church in Monapo, Mozambique.jpg|thumb|Church in Monapo]] The public holidays in Mozambique are: * '''1 January''' New Year's Day. * '''3 February''' Heroes' Day. * '''7 April''' Woman's Day. * '''1 May''' Workers' Day. * '''25 June''' Independence Day. * '''7 September''' Lusaka Agreement Day. * '''25 September''' Armed Forces Day. * '''4 October''' Peace Day. * '''25 December''' Family Day. ===Smoking=== Smoking in all public places was banned in Mozambique in 2007. However, many restaurants and bars have ignored this ban as it is almost entirely unenforced. ===People=== The '''Makua''' is the largest ethnic group that dominate in the northern part of Mozambique. the '''Sena''' and '''Ndau''' in the Zambezi valley, and the '''Shangaan''' dominate in the southern part of Mozambique. ==Get in== As it is impossible to exchange meticais outside of Mozambique it is advisable to change a small amount of currency if arriving at a land border in mid to late afternoon to cover taxis and meals for the first night, currency exchanges generally close at 18:00 and due to sporadic ATM failures access to currency is by no means guaranteed out of hours. When accepted by merchants foreign currency has an extremely poor exchange rate. ===Visas and border fees=== [[File:Visa policy of Mozambique.png|thumb|375px|A map showing the visa requirements of Mozambique, with countries in green having visa-free access. Countries in yellow having visa on arrival]] [[File:Giriyondo Border Post South Africa Mozambique (5132904810).jpg|thumb|Giriyondo border post in Kruger National Park (border with South Africa)]] All visitors (except citizens of Angola, Eswatini, South Africa, Tanzania, Botswana, Malawi, Mauritius, Zambia and Zimbabwe) require a visa, which can now be obtained on arrival at most major entry points including Maputo Airport, the Port of Maputo, Ressano Garcia, Goba, Ponto D'ouro, Giriyondo, Vilanculos Airport, Inhambane Airport, Beira Airport, Pemba Airport and Nampula Airport. The cost of receiving the tourist visa on arrival is US$95 as of January 2024, with no additional documentation required (at least at Maputo Airport). They ask for printed Hotel booking at Eswatini border posts. South Africa's currency is accepted, the officers will not provide change though. Land borders may also charge a stamping fee on entry, which is generally US$2, but is often waived if you buy your visa at the border. In addition, you must use the visa forms provided at the consulate or border as self-printed versions will not be accepted; at borders, these are free, but Mozambican embassies/consulates generally charge US$1 for the form. A '''tourist visa''' is valid for 90 days after issue and permits a 30-day stay. It can be extended by a further 30 days at immigration offices in provincial capitals. There is a US$100 a day fine for overstaying a visa. ===By plane=== Most international flights arrive from [[South Africa]], although direct international routes also exist between Mozambique and [[Zimbabwe]], [[Tanzania]], [[Kenya]], [[Portugal]], [[Qatar]], [[Istanbul]], and [[Addis Ababa]]. There are several flights daily from [[Johannesburg]] to [[Maputo]], operated by [http://www.flysaa.com South African Airways (SAA)] and the Mozambican flag-carrier [http://www.lam.co.mz Linhas Aereas de Moçambique (LAM)]. [http://www.fedair.com/ Federal Air] fly daily direct to Vilanculos International airport. Other airlines that fly to the country include Airlinkk, Qatar airways, Turkish airlines, Ethiopian airlines, Malawi airlines, [http://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways], and [http://www.tap.pt TAP Portugal]. There are also several flights during the week from Johannesburg, [[Dar es Salaam]], and [[Nairobi]] to [[Pemba]] in the north, operated by either South African Airlink (SAA) or LAM. If you make a telephone booking with LAM and will not be paying for your flight until check-in you must reconfirm the flight 72 hours before departure or they are liable to cancel it. After checking in you need to get a tax stamp on your boarding card. For internal flights the tax is 200 MT and for international flights 500 MT to be paid in cash. ===By train=== The railways in Mozambique are in poor shape and mainly used for freight; however, there are some opportunities for the intrepid traveller to travel by train. While there are no international connections per se, some border cities have rail connections. There are three train lines: one is in the far north of the country, travelling from [[Nampula]] to [[Cuamba]] near the [[Malawi]]an border; another runs from [[Maputo]] to [[Chicualacuala]] at the border with Zimbabwe; and the last one connects Maputo with the border to [[South Africa]]. ==== From Malawi==== This line connects [[Nampula]] with [[Cuamba]] (near the Malawi border). The train carries first, second and third-class passengers and is usually packed. From Nampula, the train leaves around 05:00-06:00, although you should arrive earlier to buy tickets from the booking office at the station. The area is packed with people traveling towards Malawi so expect queues. Once on board the journey is long and slow but fairly efficient and will get to Cuamba mid-afternoon. From here ''chapas'' will take you to the border (Entre Lagos) as only freight trains use this bit of the line. Even hardened African travelers will likely find this stretch of road very rough: expect it to take a fair amount of time. Once at Entre Lagos, the border formalities are in the station building (easy to find as the town is a typical small border town). The process can take some time as this is a little-used crossing. From here it is about a 1-km walk to the Malawi side of the border. The Malawi border closes before the Mozambique one, although there is a guesthouse if you get trapped. The easiest way to get from here to Liwonde is by train - sweet-talk the guards and they may let you share their compartment. ==== From South Africa ==== There are daily trains to [[Maputo]] from the border town of [[Ressano Garcia]] and the Lebombo border crossing. [[Komatipoort]], located just across the border in [[South Africa]] sees multiple trains from [[Johannesburg]] and [[Pretoria]] every week. ==== From Zimbabwe ==== A train runs from [[Bulawayo]] to the border town of Chicualacuala, where there is a connecting train to Maputo. ===By car=== In order to enter Mozambique by car you will need the original registration documents and if it is not your vehicle a letter from the owner granting permission to take the vehicle in to Mozambique. All foreign vehicles are required to have third party insurance, which is available at many borders for 150 South African rand, and also to pay road tax which of 26.50 MT. ====From South Africa==== * {{listing | name=Johannesburg (Lebombo/Ressano Garcia) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=N4 towards Mbombela, follow it until you reach the border just after Komatipoort | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open 06:00-19:00 (occasionally open 24 hours during busy periods) | price= | content=On the Mozambican side follow the EN4 for a further 100 km to reach Maputo. The stretch of the EN4 after the border leading up to the border has two toll stations that can be paid in US dollars, euros, South African rand or meticales. Change is provided in meticais. }} * {{listing | name=Kruger Park (Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park) | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Enter Kruger Park from Phalaborwa Gate and follow the signs for 95km to the Giriyondo Border Post. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open Apr-Sep 08:00 to 15:00, and Oct-Mar 08:00 to 16:00 | price= | content='''Caution 4WD only.''' On entering Mozambique you will be charged a conservation fee for entering Parque Nacional do Limpopo which is 200 MT/R67/USD10 per person and per vehicle. You do not need 3rd party insurance unless you exit Parque Nacional do Limpopo but this can be purchased at the park exit gate to Massingir. }} * {{listing | name=Kosi Bay | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Follow the R22 from Kosi Bay to the Mozambique border (signed as Ponta d'Ouro) and then take the right road as you leave the border then keep left until Ponta d'Ouro | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 07:30 to 17:30 | price= | content=The Kosi Bay Border is 630 km from Joburg or 460 km from Durban and is open 7 days a week. It closes at 17:00 (Google has this as 16:00, and some people are told it is 18:00). It borders the Ponta do Ouro border post in Mozambique 'Caution 4WD only'. Due to the use of seasonal dirt roads after the border it is advisable to use a GPS route provided by someone who has recently completed the journey. Access to Maputo used to be via a ferry service (R45) in Catembe. The new Maputo-Katembe Bridge linking KwaZulu-Natal and Mozambique, which at 3,041 m is the longest suspension bridge in Africa, reduces the travel time between Kosi Bay (on the KZN border) & Maputo from six hours to just 90 minutes. It opens up into the Mozambican National Park which has many speed bumps and changing speed zones which you need to be cognisant of if you want to avoid being stopped or fine }} ====From Eswatini==== * {{listing | name=Mhlumeni | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:00-18:00 | price= | content=Easily one the quietest and easiest of all the Mozambique borders to pass through, it is deserted most of the time. Getting a visa and 3rd party insurance at this border can be problematic so arrange ahead of time. If coming from Johannesburg and traveling over the weekend or during South African holidays you can expect to save at least an hour transiting via Eswatini to this border compared to using Ressano Garcia. }} * {{listing | name=Namaacha | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:00-20:00 | price= | content=The busier of the two Eswatini/Mozambique border posts and is very busy over weekend and holiday periods. }} ===By bus=== [[File:Public transport Muidumbe - Mueda (7660759658).jpg|thumb|Public transport in the north of the country]] ====From Malawi==== There are a number of border crossings to/from Malawi. By far the easiest and most frequently plied is at [[Zobue|Zóbuè]]. The road is in good condition. Daily ''chapas'' run to/from [[Tete]] to the border, where you will have to walk about 300 m to get to Malawian transport. Daily through buses from [[Chimoio]] and [[Beira]] also use this crossing. There is another border crossing to the north, at [[Dedza]], which may be more convenient for [[Lilongwe]] but the public transport on either side can be sporadic. To leave/enter Malawi to the east, there are two crossings, [[Milange]] and [[Mandimba]]. Milange is in the south-east of Malawi, and to get there you need to catch one of the daily vehicles that run between [[Mocuba]] and Milange. At Milange there is a 2-km walk to the border, and then another 1km to where Malawian transport leaves. Mandimba is further north, used mainly to get to Malawi from [[Lichinga]]. Several vehicles run daily between Lichinga and Mandimba, from where it is another 7 km to the border. Hitching is relatively easy, or bicycle-taxis do the trip for about US$1. It is also possible to cross the Lake - see [[#By boat]] below. ====From South Africa==== You can take the '''[http://www.intercape.co.za/ Intercape Mainliner]''', {{phone|+27 861 287 287}}, from [[Johannesburg]] to [[Maputo]]. These buses run in both directions on a regular basis, one in the morning, and another overnight, and are safe and affordable. Other carriers include '''[http://www.greyhound.co.za Greyhound]''' and '''[http://www.translux.co.za Translux]{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. If you intend on obtaining a visa at the border you should only purchase a ticket as far as the border, bus companies will not permit you to board with a ticket to Maputo if you are not in possession of a visa. If you ask the bus conductor they will help you obtain a visa at the border and avoid the usually extremely long wait at the Mozambique side. Once through immigration either re board the bus and pay the fare to Maputo on board or pick up a minibus taxi to Maputo from the border. Three times per week there are bus connections to and from [[Durban]] (via [[Big Bend (Eswatini)|Big Bend]], [[Eswatini]]). There is also a service from [[Mbombela]] and [[Komatipoort]] to Maputo. There are the "taxis" to and from any destination in South Africa at affordable prices from 04:00 to 00:00. ====From Eswatini==== Chapas leave from both [[Manzini]] and [[Mbabane]] to Maputo via Goba typically around 11:00. Usefully they arrive in to Baixa (and can drop you at 24 de Julho) so you are within walking distance of both Fatima's and Base. The fare is R150 as of January 2024. ====From Tanzania==== The border between Mozambique and Tanzania is formed by the River Rovuma. Daily pick-ups connect [[Moçimboa da Praia]] with [[Palma]] and [[Namiranga]], the border post on the Mozambique side. The main route runs from [[Moçimboa da Praia]] (on the Mozambiquan side), via [[Palma]] (Mozambique), to [[Mtwara]] (on the Tanzanian side) and vice versa. It is recommended to take 2 days over this trip due to the low quality of the roads on the Mozambique side, and the low level of traffic. When coming from Tanzania, lifts depart from [[Mtwara]] and [[Kilambo]] to the Rovuma river. Kilambo is a small place with one road running through it, so lifts should be easy to find. Mtwara is much larger however, so ask the locals where and when lifts leave from. When coming from Mozambique, your lift to the river will normally start from either Palma (more likely), or - if you're lucky - [[Moçimboa da Praia]] and go to the border post at Namiranga. It will generally wait for you to have your passport stamped at the border post (a mud hut in Namiranga). During the wet season, your lift will then probably drive to the banks of the Rovuma. During the dry season it will drive you to the end of the road, from which there is a walk of between 1 and 2 km (depending on the water level that day) to the Rovuma river. There is an unreliable ferry that goes across the river. Typically however, the crossing is done by dugout canoes or slightly larger wooden motorboats. The trip across the river shouldn't cost more than around US$8, but can only normally be paid for using Tanzanian shillings, although if you find yourself without these, there are plenty of locals who will offer you "generous" exchange rates for your hard-earned Dollars and Meticais. If water levels are low you may have to wade to get to and from your boat on the Tanzanian side, so possessing a heavy-duty waterproof sack may be a good idea, but it is by no means essential. On the Tanzanian side you will often find yourself mobbed by people offering you transport. Pick-pocketing is common on both sides of the river, so care must be taken whilst finding transport to the nearby towns, a good method of reducing your trouble is to befriend a local on the boatride over, you will find most of your fellow travellers are willing to help you in one way or another. Transport then carries you on to the Tanzanian border post at Kilambo, and normally, further on to Mtwara, the capital of Southern Tanzania. For further information and up-to-date news on this crossing, go to "Russell's Place" (also known as Cashew Camp) in Pemba. There are other crossings to Tanzania, but these all require long walks. Ask around for local information. ====From Zambia==== The main crossing is at [[Cassacatiza]], north-west of [[Tete]]. This border is in good condition, but lightly traveled. Daily chapas run between Tete and Matema, from there the public transport is sporadic. The best way to travel from Mozambique to Zambia is to go via Malawi. ====From Zimbabwe==== There are two crossings - [[Nyamapanda]] (south-west of [[Tete]]), and [[Machipanda]] (west of [[Chimoio]]). Both are heavily traveled, especially Machipanda due to its location at the end of the Beira Corridor. ===By boat=== [[File:Mozambique Island Bridge.jpg|thumb|Bridge to Ilha de Mozambique]] There is no scheduled sea travel to and from Mozambique. ====Tanzania==== Outside of monsoon season it may be possible to hire a dhow from [[Tanzania]] down to Mozambique but this will generally be extremely expensive. The Tanzanian ports of [[Mikindani]], [[Mtwara]] and [[Msimbati]] are all within range of Mozambique and will be the best places to secure dhow transport. In reverse the ports of [[Moçimboa da Praia]] and [[Palma]] are the two best ports on the Mozambique side to find a dhow to Tanzania. ====Malawi==== The MV Ilala operates across [[Lake Malawi]] from [[Monkey Bay]], [[Chilumba]], [[Nkhata Bay]] to [[Likoma Island]]. From [[Likoma Island]] it is a 3-km boat ride to the Mozambique border at [[Cobue]]. It is possible to travel across Lake Niassa (Lake Malawi), though international travelers must legally enter through a border post and have the appropriate documentation (visas, etc. depending on nationality). Once on the Mozambique side, local transport would need to be arranged. Taking the Ilala ferry is certainly a once in a lifetime experience. Sleeping on the upper deck of this second world war ferry and watching the sunrise over far rolling hills along the Mozambican and Malawian coast is breath taking. You can enter the ferry from any of the harbors where the ferry arrives. IF you plan to travel on to Malawi, you should get on the ferry at the harbor in Metangula. ==Get around== ===By car=== Traffic is left-handed, cars are often in poor conditio, and drivers may not know or respect traffic rules. Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs is common, especially at night and on weekends. Driving after dark outside the city is not recommended. Keep car windows closed and doors locked, especially when stopping at intersections. Driving can lead to being stopped by the police for bribes. There have also been cases of carjacking. It is not a good idea to pick up strangers.[[File:Estrada Nacional EN12 (5983637047).jpg|thumb|EN12 highway]] The EN1 runs the length of the country generally staying close to the coast from Maputo up. Roads throughout the country are generally in poor condition, especially when compared to South Africa, although the stretch of the EN1 between Maputo and Inchope is in decent condition with the exception of the 120 km directly north of Vilankulo and the last 100 km south of Inchope which are still in decrepit condition and pose a serious challenge to any driver in a low clearance vehicle. The EN1 from Mocuba to Nampula and further to Ilha de Moçambique is in good condition. The EN6 between the Machipanda border crossing with Zimbabwe and Inchope is in good condition, but deteriorates considerably between Inchope and Beira, becoming almost impassable at points. North of Vilankulo service stations are scarce - motorists may go 150 km between service stations so fill up at every opportunity. South African company [https://bushlore.com Bushlore] rents 4x4 vehicles and campers and will facilitate cross-border trips with flexible pick-ups and drop-offs. ===Chapas and buses=== '''Buses''' and '''chapas''' leave early in Mozambique: 04:00 is not unusual, particularly as you go further north. Chapas take the form of both mini & midi buses but often pick up trucks and cargo trucks will offer a ride for the same fare as a chapa. Government and privately owned buses ply the same routes as Chapas but typically stop a great deal more often so are inadvisable for anything other than short journeys. The chapas themselves, particularly on shorter routes, are generally in shockingly poor condition. Expect seats, doors and interiors falling apart. The Mozambican government regulates prices on key routes which means chapa travel in Mozambique is extremely good value. In larger cities this translates to signs with destinations and prices in chapa stations (EG - Junta in Maputo), these prices will not come down no matter how hard you negotiate but many an enterprising chapa conductor/navigator/bouncer will try to extort you if you are silly enough to ask what a price is. If in doubt ask at your hotel, a local or as a last resort simply hand them a large note; often they will assume you know the correct fare and give you the correct change. There are government registered chapas and unregistered chapas. While both are unsafe and are in many accidents each year, always take the government chapas. These can be recognized by being the large buses. These buses are newer and thus slightly safer. They cost slightly more (at the time this was written they were 10 MT a journey, and unregistered were 5). Unregistered chapas though are extremely dangerous and overcrowded and should never be used if you can help it. ===Taxis=== Once only found in [[Maputo]] taxis can now be found in many cities throughout the country. They never have meters so you must negotiate regarding cost before your journey. Taxis are often in as perilous condition as chapas (from balding tires to someone sitting in the passenger seat holding a plastic gas can with the cars fuel line going in to it) and breakdowns should be considered likely. Never pay for your journey until you reach your destination. If you are female, never take a taxi alone, especially not one found on the side of the road. If you must, ask around for the number of a trusted taxi driver who will come pick you up and can usually be there in under half an hour depending on how far away they are. Always add ten minutes or more to how long they say they will take to collect you though. In Maputo there is a flat rate of 200 MT for any journey in the city center. Longer journeys (EG to Junta) cost 400 MT and up. In the early morning they will often attempt to gouge you, doubling the price to 400 MT, as there are often very few taxis about at this time. Chapas can also be rented as taxis but are typically more expensive and far less comfortable. ===Air=== Domestic '''flights''' are the fastest and most sane way to get around the country if you can afford it. [http://www.lam.co.mz Linhas Aereas de Moçambique] flies between the major cities. The flights themselves are actually on extremely modern, clean and well maintained planes and are a stark contrast to the other transport options in the country. However, be warned that all airlines from the country including LAM are listed on the [http://ec.europa.eu/transport/modes/air/safety/air-ban/doc/list_en.pdf EU air safety list] as of June 2015 and are therefore banned from operating in the European airspace. LAM operate an old style booking system where you can reserve a flight over the telephone and then pay for it on check in. If you do use this facility ensure that you confirm your flight 72 hours before departure or your reservation will likely be canceled. Alternatively all LAM offices in towns and airports can book and receive payment for flights throughout the country. It is not advisable to pay using credit card due to the level of corruption present in all state enterprises including LAM. ===Rail=== '''Trains''' aren't really very useful, considering there's only one and it's in the far north of the country traveling from [[Nampula]] to [[Cuamba]] near the [[Malawi]]an border. See ''get in'' above for more details. Mine clearance from the old coastal railway running the length of the country has been finished in many areas but with the costs involved and the level of corruption in the country it will be decades before any rail service with reasonable coverage arrives in the country. ==Talk== The official language of Mozambique is [[Portuguese phrasebook|Portuguese]], though many people speak English in the capital Maputo and in touristy areas. The further north you travel the less likely you are to encounter English speakers, and as you enter more rural areas even Portuguese is limited. Mozambicans speak standard Portuguese (European Portuguese), and it is spoken as a lingua franca or second language of speakers of various native languages. [[Swahili phrasebook|Swahili]] is useful in the far north of the country as you get close to Tanzania, especially along the coast, and [[Nyanja phrasebook|Nyanja]] is spoken near the border with Malawi and Zambia. Some native words from the Shona language can be useful if you are traveling near Cabora Bassa. ==See== [[File:Maputo-aerial.jpg|thumb|Maputo]] * [[Ilha de Mozambique]], i.e. Mozambique Island is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mozambique. The island boasts colonial architecture including probably the oldest European building in the Southern Hemisphere and beaches. * The historic town of [[Inhambane]]. * Sites from the civil war all over the country and the Museum of Revolution in [[Maputo]] to learn more about recent events in the country's history * Wildlife and nature in [[Gorongosa National Park]]. ==Do== * '''Dive''', see [[Diving in Mozambique]] for details. * '''Tours and Safaris''', a number of tour operators can help you reach Mozambique's highlights. The most reputable as per guide books Lonely Planet and Bradt are Mozaic Travel [http://www.mozaictravel.com]{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} and Dana Tours in the south, and Kaskazini in the north. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Mozambican meticais | currencyCode=MT | date=July 2025 | USD=64 | EUR=75 | GBP=87 | ZAR=3.6 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mzn-mozambican-metical XE.com] }} The currency of Mozambique is the '''new metical''' (plural ''meticais'', pronounced 'meta-caysh'), denoted by the symbol "'''MT'''" (ISO code: '''MZN'''). It may also be called ''Meticais Nova Família''. It is notionally divided into 100 centavos. Three zeroes were dropped from the currency in 2006. Old currency can no longer be exchanged at banks. People will occasionally still refer to the old currency, so if someone asks for "1 million", they generally mean one thousand new meticais. Coins of Mozambique are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 centavos, 1, 2, 5 and 10 meticais. Banknotes of Mozambique are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 meticais. Many businesses in the tourist centers are run by [[South Africa]]ns and prices are often quoted in rand (for which the usual abbreviation is ZAR). In this guide prices are also quoted in rand when applicable. US dollars, rand, British pounds and Euros are freely convertible at commercial rates at any bank or exchange. Other currencies such as Canadian or Australian dollars or Japanese yen, are not accepted anywhere, even at official banks and exchanges. There is very little black market currency exchange, since the commercial exchanges offer the best market rate. You cannot exchange meticais outside Mozambique, but you can convert them back at exchanges prior to leaving the country. Also you cannot buy meticais outside Moçambique. '''ATMs''' are present throughout the country; '''BCI, Standard Bank''', '''Eco Bank''', '''Millennium BIM''' are the banks you are most likely to run in to. BCI, Standard and Eco Bank accepts Visa & MasterCard, Millennium accepts all international cards including Maestro/Cirrus cards. ATMs have transaction limits on withdrawals, which vary with the bank. Millennium bank limits withdrawals to 3,000 MT, and Standard Bank and Eco Bank to 10,000 MT; you can always insert your card again to withdraw more money. BCI and Ecobank atms have no withdraw fee for overseas cards. ===Shopping=== Everything in Mozambique that does not have a price attached can be bargained down to whatever you consider a reasonable price to be. Remember that while laughing when they give you an insane price is perfectly OK you should not get outwardly angry or hostile, you will be unlikely to get a reasonable price if you do. If in doubt about what a fair price is ask your hotel. No one in Mozambique, including often backpacker lodges, have change. The 1000 MT and 500 MT are almost impossible to use day to day, so change them down in to more manageable notes in any bank. The one exception to this rule is chapa drivers, if you find yourself running low on small bills pay for your 15 MT fare with a 100 MT note. ==Eat== [[File:Lobster night.jpg|thumb|Lobsters!]] As a country the [[Portugal|Portuguese ]]<nowiki/>occupation has a profound impact on local foods that has produced some of the most unique and interesting cuisine within Southern Africa. Towards the coast a great deal of seafood is used within even the most basic of dishes, however, in land the maize based partridges common throughout Africa becomes staple but with some Portuguese flair. * '''Piri-Piri''', also known as the '''African bird's-eye chili''' this extremely strong chili is common in sauce form throughout the country. * '''Pãozinho ''', also known as '''Portuguese rolls''' or '''Prego (beef) no pão and bifana (fried pork) '''. A floury and often semi-sweet bread roll, typically served with meat in the center. * '''Matapa''', a seafood (clam, crab or prawn) stew made with cassava leaves and generally served over rice. This is one of the Mozambique staples. * '''Camarão National''', are Mozambican prawns marinaded in a Piri-Piri, garlic, onion, lemon and vinegar. * '''Cray fish''' and '''other seafood'''. These are caught off the beach throughout the country and will generally be prepared with a piri-piri marinade, served with rice and matapa. * '''Kakana''' This is a bitter tasting local vegetable. ==Drink== <!--DO NOT add any bar or club listings to the country article. They belong in the relevant city article---> All tap water in Mozambique should be assumed to be unsafe to drink, even if it is not harmful it usually has some sediment that your stomach will not be used to. Most western oriented lodgings either provide a fresh water source or sell bottled water. ===Beer=== In Mozambique '''Cervejas de Mocambique''' have a virtual monopoly on beer brewing. The three most popular brands are 2M (remember to pronounce it doysh-em or you will end up with an extra beer), Laurentina Clara and Manica. Other local African beers such as Castle and Windhoek are reasonably widely available but are not as popular as in neighboring countries due to the high quality of the local brews. ===Liquors=== Locally produced spirits such as vodka and gin are relatively common throughout the country and are relatively inexpensive. The local drink is Cashu made of the peel from the cashew nut. According to the locals it's very good for a man's libido. It has a sour taste. Many chain and local supermarkets do not sell alcohol in Mozambique: you will need to find a specific liquor store close by. <!--DO NOT add any bar or club listings to the country article. They belong in the relevant city article---> ==Sleep== Accommodation ranges from inexpensive guesthouses and backpacker-oriented accommodation through to some of the most expensive resort accommodation in the region. [[File:Un bungalow - 2012-06-13 - 75154600.jpg|thumb|Bungalow]] ===Hotels=== Hotels in Mozambique are generally ungraded and, particularly in the less traveled parts of the country, have not been updated since independence. In some cases you can pay up to $50USD a night for a hotel room that should be in the US$5–10 range based on facilities. On the other end of the scale Mozambique hosts some of the most incredible, and expensive, hotels and resorts in the world. ===Backpacker lodges=== [[Maputo]], [[Tofo Beach]], [[Vilanculos]], [[Chimoio]] and [[Pemba]] have backpacker lodges and are geared up for the budget traveler. There are some backpacker options elsewhere in the country but often the only option for a budget traveler will be transient labor guesthouses or cheap hotels. ===Self-catering=== In most major tourist areas many self-catering options exist. If you do bring your own gas based cooking equipment, keep in mind that the typical backpacker Lindal valve gas canisters are not available anywhere in the country. ===Camping and caravaning=== Dedicated camp sites with security are available in almost all coastal towns and you can often camp in rural areas with a village chief's blessing (If you do decide to use this option a small offering such as food, liquor or cigarettes can be very useful). If taking a caravan keep in mind that a great deal of roads in Mozambique degenerate in to sandy paths that require 4WD, it is advisable to only stick to popular areas along the EN1. ===Purchasing land or property=== If someone offers to "sell" you land in Mozambique walk away immediately, it is a scam. Private ownership of land in Mozambique is impossible, all land is owned by the government and will only be provided for foreign use, under a 99-year lease, under very specific circumstances. ==Learn== * '''Universidade Eduardo Mondlane''', [http://www.uem.mz] is the oldest and largest university in the country. ==Work== * You may be able to find work '''teaching''' at a school such as The American International School of Mozambique [http://www.aism-moz.com/?Page=Employment]. * If you're a certified divemaster or instructor you could try helping out at one of the '''dive shops''' in [[Tofo Beach]], [[Vilanculos]] or [[Ponta d'Ouro]]. ==Stay safe== [[File:Lighthouse (8541084669).jpg|thumb|Lighthouse in Beira]] Risks are much the same as many other countries in Africa (and significantly less than some, including parts of South Africa). Nevertheless muggings, robberies, rape and murder do occur, so the normal precautions should be taken. Women absolutely should never walk alone on beaches. Attacks on women have grown in tourist areas. In particular it's worth checking with local hostels and other tourists as to where dangerous areas are. But in general the Mozambican people are extremely warm and friendly and you will encounter far less hassle than in almost all of the countries surrounding it. ===Police=== In Mozambique the police do not exist to help you, only to try and extort money from you. Do not trust them under any circumstances. Insisting on being taken to a police station is unlikely to improve your situation, with the exception of in Maputo, the police have been known to rob tourists blind and throw them in a cell. Instead mention contacting your embassy or the anti-corruption hot line to verify a fine and always ask for a receipt. If you have cause to go to a police station (''e.g.'', filing a police report for insurance purposes after a theft), do not take any valuables or excessive currency with you and try to ''always'' go with someone else. '''At airports:''' While airport security personnel typically prioritize ensuring the safety of passengers and aircraft, there have been reported cases of opportunistic individuals taking advantage of their position to pilfer travelers' belongings, including cash, credit cards, and other valuables. To minimize the risk of becoming a victim of such theft, it's crucial to adopt precautionary measures. # Travel with a minimum of cash: Only carry the amount of cash you'll need for immediate expenses, such as transportation, meals, and incidentals. # Employ travel cards instead of cash: Travel cards, including credit cards and debit cards, offer greater protection than cash. They're linked to your bank account and can be used to make purchases and withdraw cash from ATMs. However, inform your bank of your travel itinerary beforehand to prevent your card from being flagged for suspicious activity. # Explore digital payment methods: Mobile wallets and other digital payment methods are becoming increasingly popular and convenient for travelers. These methods allow for contactless payments without the need to carry cash or cards. # Stay vigilant: Maintain constant vigilance over your belongings. ====Speed limits==== In Mozambique the speed limit in town is 60 km/h (unless there are road signs to the contrary ) and 100 km/h elsewhere. There are mobile speed traps on the EN1 which specifically target foreign visitors. ====Bribery==== When dealing with the Mozambican police never suggest a bribe, simply listen to whatever lecture they care to give and ask "What can we do about this?" Often they will simply let you go, if they do ask for a bribe the amount is entirely negotiable and can range from a bottle of coke (carrying no identification) through to several hundred US dollars (minor drug infractions). ====Identification==== By law you must carry a form of identification with you at all times and present it to the police on request. As a result you should always carry a notarized copy of your passport photo page, visa and entry stamp with you at all times. Ask your hotel where to locate a notary or contact your local embassy as soon as you enter the country. In Maputo, there is one on Av. Lenine, close to Mimmo's, and another on Av. Armando Tivane (one block west of Av. Nyerere) between Av. Mao Tse-Tung and Av. 24 de Julho. They are not particularly easy to find, ask around. If you are asked for identification by the police and you do not have a notarized copy under no circumstances give them your passport, if you do then it will likely cost you a great deal of money to get it back; often simply talking to them a while will get them to go away. ===Land mines=== While most of the country has been cleared there is still an on-going risk in rural areas away from the EN1 in Sofala, Tete, Manica, Gaza, Inhambane and Maputo provinces. Only 2 or 3 incidents a year occur with landmines and they are all well outside the tourist trail. ==Stay healthy== * '''Malarial prophylaxis''' is essential in all parts of Mozambique. Chloroquine/Paludrine are now as ineffective as in other parts of east Africa, and it's worth going to see your doctor to get decent protection. If you are in country and suspect you have malaria there are clinics in every town that will administer a test for approximately 50 MT, the treatment also costs 50 MT if you have malaria. * '''Get all your vaccinations before arriving''' Medical facilities in Mozambique are now generally reasonably stocked, but it is always worth getting a range of vaccinations before you leave. Prevention is better than cure. It is worth considering carrying some clean needles/sterile set if you are visiting out of the way areas, purely as remote medical facilities may have problems getting hold of them. [[File:Nshima and mice.JPG|thumb|Mice, anyone?]] * '''Mind what you eat.''' As common in most countries in the world, if you are concerned about the standards of hygiene in a place, don't eat there. * '''Do not have unprotected sex.''' As in many parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, there is a very high HIV incidence, at 12.5% ([https://phia.icap.columbia.edu/countries/mozambique/#:~:text=The%20Mozambique%20PHIA%20survey%2C%20also,and%20interviewed%20over%2017%2C000%20participants. National HIV Survey, 2021]) * '''Do not drink tap water or use any ice.''' South of the Zambezi river that divides the country, Mozambique is much more developed, especially around Maputo, tourist areas such as Inhambane and the industrial city of Beira. Here, especially in built-up areas, it is safe to drink the tap water, hence water in this area is marketed as "mineral water" and not "drinking water" and is sold at an inflated price as a semi-luxury item (sometimes for as much as 50 or 60 MT in backpackers lodges and restaurants). The infrastructure in the north of the country is much less developed and, as such, caution must be exercised, especially in rural areas and the area near Palma and bordering Tanzania. The tap water is usually safe to drink in the main cities such as Nampula and Pemba, and on Mozambique Island. If you are ever unsure about the quality of the tap water, water-purifying liquids (normally chlorine-based) are widely available and very cheap, costing around 40 cents for a large bottle - the most popular brand is "Certeza" and it is easy to find. You could also consider bringing puri-tabs if you are planning on going well off the "beaten track". * '''Private clinics.''' There are a few private health clinics in Maputo that will also arrange repatriation in emergencies. Clinica da Sommerschield (tel: 21 493924) Clinica Suedoise (tel: 21 492922). *'''Electric showers'''. In any accommodation, check the shower fitting. A rather dangerous type manufactured in Brazil is popular: it contains an ungrounded 4 kW electric heater. Do not touch the fitting when in use, as they have been known to give severe electric shocks. Better still, switch the power off (there should be a nearby circuit breaker) and have a cold shower. Be similarly cautious with any other type of electrical shower heater. ==Connect== ===Mobile phones=== [https://movitel.co.mz/ '''Movitel'''] is becoming the most popular carrier in the country. There is also the South-African owned '''[https://www.vm.co.mz/ Vodacom Mozambique]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''Vodacom have 4G in many towns and GPRS Edge elsewhere. The APN is internet. Check your phone manual for setting instructions. The mCel service is not entirely reliable, especially outside Maputo. Vodacom is generally very good. Many Mozambicans think Movitel has the fastest internet, especially outside Maputo. While it is OK to buy credit from the hundreds of vendors roaming the streets wearing mCel or Vodacom shirts you should never buy SIM cards and starter packs, in many cases they sell them at hugely inflated prices and often they will be from one of the many recalled batches that no longer work. Any mobile phone store can sell you a working starter pack for around 50 MT. ===Internet=== Internet is widely available in Maputo, with many internet cafes and all major hotels having internet access. The cell phone providers - mCel, Vodacom, and Movitel - have introduced internet to cellphone and USB modems. See above for further information. Outside Maputo internet coverage is sporadic and mostly available in places frequented by tourists. Local Telecommunication de Mozambique (TDM) offices almost always have internet although speed and availability can be problematic. ===Radio=== There are many FM stations in Maputo, offering a variety of music and speech. Away from the capital, Radio Mozambique will be heard in many places and BBC World Service have their English/Portuguese service in the main cities. There are numerous small community radio stations serving smaller towns/villages. A new radio station called LM Radio (Lifetime Music Radio), broadcasts in English on 87.8 FM in Maputo and Matola. The radio station offers a wide range of music from the 1960s, 70s and 80s together with a blend of modern day music in the same style and flavor. The radio station also provides regular travel and safety tips for visitors to Mozambique. {{geo|-19|35|zoom=6}} {{isPartOf|Southern Africa}} {{outlinecountry}} {{related|African_National_Parks}} {{related|African_flora_and_fauna}} {{related|Discount_airlines_in_Africa}} jwm4519gbl3e3ctpf7vfufxrgfncc6z 0 23565 5091169 5066571 2025-07-11T02:59:34Z DaGizza 162256 /* Sleep */ Updated listing for Broadway 5091169 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mena-asia_default_banner.jpg}} '''[https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in/destination/mussoorie/ Mussoorie]''' is a [[Hill stations in India|hill station]] in the [[Garhwal]] region of [[Uttarakhand]]. ==Understand== [[File:Beautiful_Mussoorie.jpg|thumb|View of the hills in Mussoorie towards sunset]] With its green hills and varied flora and fauna, Mussoorie is a fascinating hill resort and a fabulous honeymoon spot. Commanding a wonderful view of extensive Himalayan snow ranges to the northeast and glittering views of the Doon Valley, [[Roorkee]], [[Saharanpur]] and [[Haridwar]] to the South, the town presents a fairyland atmosphere to tourists. Its history dates back to 1827 when Captain Young, an adventurous military officer, explored the site and laid the foundation of this holiday town. ===Climate=== At an altitude of over {{m|2000}}, Mussoorie is a popular retreat from the heat of the plains. In winter (Dec-Feb) you can expect freezing weather and snow. The monsoon arrives in July and stays through to mid-September. == Get in == === By bus === Buses leave from [[Dehradun]] train station. There are two buses which go to opposite ends of the Mussoorie Mall, Library and Picture Palace. It is quite a hike from one to the other, so make sure you catch the right one. To reach Kempty Falls directly from Dehradun catch a bus from the Dehradun Railway station Hill Bus Services Section or take a taxi. You should look for buses heading for destinations like Barkot, Nainbagh, Yamunotri, and Purola (Caution: sometimes Purola buses go via Vikas nagar which may take you off the route completely). You can also take a bus to the Library end of Mussoorie and walk to the Kempty Bus stop and take a bus or taxi or a milkvan or even hitch a ride with a tourist going in that direction!! Bus fee for Library end or Kulri end (from Dehradun) is ₹47. Toll Tax is payable on entering Kempty Village per bus/taxi/car/scooter. Bus fare from library end to Kempty is around ₹15. === By taxi === It is possible to hire a taxi for the trip up to Mussoorie. Rates are ₹610 per taxi and ₹50 extra for the night charges but you can pay per seat as well in a shared taxi which normally accommodates up to five passengers. Shared or chartered taxis too are available near the same Hill Section Bus terminal and the rates are controlled by the taxi union. These rates are generally displayed on a board outside their office. Mussoorie is just 38&nbsp;km from Dehradun and you can reach here by taxis and buses. It takes approximately 1.5 hours and ₹47 for the regular buses to reach Mussoorie. From the Dehradun railway station, taxis charge around ₹610. Shared taxis charging a little over ₹100 per person are also available. == Get around == {{Mapframe|30.458511|78.073720|zoom=14}} [[File:Rickshaw 2.jpg|thumb|Tourist enjoy a rickshaw ride on Mall Road]] Once in Mussoorie, the affordable and effective way to get around the city by bus or cycle rickshaws. Cycle rickshaws for traveling within city may cost approximately ₹20. However, it may get crowded, especially during peak hours. For the most part, you will want to get around on foot. The Mall is closed to most vehicles. === By rickshaw === A relatively flat section of the Mall allows a fleet of rickshaws to ply their trade. You can catch a ride from the Library end of the Mall to about the midpoint. A full day of Mussoorie sightseeing by rickshaw is cheaper than private cabs and taxis, albeit time-consuming. === By taxi === Taxis are not a useful form of transport within Mussoorie. If you are heading up to Landour with luggage, it would be wise to catch a ride. They can also be hired for outings to places such as Kempty Falls or Happy Valley. There are taxi stands at both ends of the Mall. Many locals offer 'taxi' services, and if you are staying longer you will likely find these (slightly cheaper) alternatives. But all the taxis are under a union, so the rates do not vary. One has to hire them through one of the union offices at library end, mall road, Kempty bus stand etc. You can also rent a private car, which will cost more but less time-consuming. A complete day of sightseeing around the city by taxi including Dhanoltri and Kempty Falls costs around ₹1800. ==See== [[File:Kempty Falls02.jpg|thumb|right|Kempty Falls]] [[Image:Dhanaulti.jpg|thumb|right|Misty Eco Park 1]] * {{see | name=Bhatta falls | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.438933 | long=78.074389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the way back to [[Dehradun]] from Mussoorie take the opportunity to see Bhatta Falls. 2-km trek, 3&nbsp;km away from Mussoorie. Mussoorie Lake is also another site to relax that is located on the same route. Boating is available there. }} * {{see | name=Camty Fall | alt=Kempty Falls | url= | email= | address=Mussoorie road teen pani | lat=30.488146 | long=78.037015 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Kempty_Water_Fall_Mussoorie.jpg | content=About 15 km from Mussoorie, this now over-built spot is a popular tourist destination. Catch a taxi or a bus from the Library stand. }} * {{see | name=Company Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.458511 | long=78.073720 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It is a government initiative, a man made beautiful park with artificial falls and fun rides. From Gun Hill Point rickshaws are available. It costs 100/- fixed rate per person round trip. }} * {{see | name=Gun Hill Point | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.459184 | long=78.073302 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Honeymooning_couple_on_top_of_gunhill_in_mussourie.jpg | content=You can enjoy the trolley ride to '''Gun Hill''' to view the splendid view of all the city and ice capped Himalaya. Trolley charge is ₹55/- round trip. Lots of photographic opportunities available as traditional dress being worn by populace is common. Up there, it is like a small fair with lots of stalls for games, snacks and nick-knacks. }} * {{see | name=Happy Valley | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.472887 | long=78.045221 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A couple kilometres from the Library end of the Mall, Happy Valley is a 5,000 strong Tibetan settlement. This is a beautiful spot for a short hike. Taxis and possibly bicycle rickshaws ply this route. }} * {{see | name=Himalayan Weavers | alt= | url=https://www.himalayanweavers.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=below the Himalayan Guest house | phone=+91 9759009830 | tollfree= | hours=10AM to 5PM | price= | content=An interesting place on the way to [[Dhanaulti]] which uses natural dyes to produce hand-woven shawls, scarves and throws from wool, eri silk and pashmina. They have a shop 8 km from Mussoorie on the Mussoorie-Dhanaulti Road. }} * {{see | name=Jawahar Aquarium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.457722 | long=78.074413 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Located on Mall Road, Jawahar Aquarium has a very nice collection of fish. Entry ticket is only ₹15. }} * {{see | name=Jhari Pani Falls | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.458511 | long=78.073720 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It is 5&nbsp;km away from the library bus stand. From Dehradun to Mussoorie, for Jharipani one has to take a right turn 11&nbsp;km before Mussoorie. Motorable roads are nicely maintained by the government. To reach the falls from main road. It's a 2-km trek. }} * {{see | name=Lake Mist | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.458511 | long=78.073720 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=About 5 km before Kempty Falls on the Mussoorie-Kempty road is a good picnic spot with accommodation and restaurant facilities; boating is also available. With the Kempty river flowing through it, Lake Mist has many small waterfalls made by the river. }} * {{see | name=Lal Tibba | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.466743 | long=78.095053 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A scenic 5 km uphill walk from Picture Palace to the highest point in Mussoorie. Passes through Landour Bazaar.Old light house is the nice thing to see there. It's a long walk to Lal Tibba from Picture Palace, about 2 to 3 hours. }} * {{see | name=Tibetan Buddhist Temple | alt=Shedup Choepelling temple | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.458511 | long=78.073720 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It is located on the '''Happy Valley''' road close to the IAS Academy. The temple can be visited between 07:00 to 17:00. Mussoorie was the Dalai Lama's first place of refuge when he fled Tibet, before he was granted land in [[Dharamshala]] by then Prime Minister ''Jawaharlal Nehru''. }} * {{see | name=The Mall road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.454893 | long=78.08378 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2025-05-02| content=The mall road is long stretch of road surrounded by shops, restaurants, and hotels. }} * {{see | name=George Everest House | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.459102 | long=78.022885 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-08 | content= }} * {{see | name=Hawa Mahal View Point | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.464204 | long=78.071402 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-04 | content= }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Cambridge Book Depot | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Mall Rd | lat=30.4561 | long=78.0778 | directions=Opposite State Bank of India | phone=+91 135 263 2224 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-12 | content=The oldest book shop in the area, the well-read and the owner of the shop is genial and helpful. }} * {{do | name=Landour Language School | alt= | url=http://landourlanguageschool.com/ | email=info@landourlanguageschool.com | address=41/2 Landour Cantt | lat= | long= | directions=about 2 km above Landour Bazaar | phone=+91 135 2631487 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The school offers classes in Hindi, Urdu, Sanskrit and the local dialect of Garhwali. }} *{{do | name=The Walks of Mussoorie | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Mussoorie itself offer some walks around the town. On walk you can take from Library Point to Landhaur Market via camel's back road. It is still free from noise and offers beautiful views. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Branded Stores | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A variety of branded store like, Reebok, Liberty, Koutons, Music world, PlanetM and Wingsfield have come up on the main mall road. }} * {{buy | name=G. Dass & Co. | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mall Road | lat= | long= | directions=opp. Clarks Hotel | phone=+91 135-2632154 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The oldest photography shop in Mussoorie. This shop offers facilities such as printing photographs. }} *{{buy | name=Om Gift Emporium | url= | email= | address=80 Kulri Bazar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 135-2630501 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} *{{buy | name=Standard Dry Cleaners | url= | email= | address=The mall Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Wooden Handicrafts | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 135-2631373 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hilly Cottage Industries(Ropeways Shopping Centre, The Mall Road, is one of the famous shops on The Mall Road. Here you can choose from a wide variety of wooden walking sticks, hand carved jewellery boxes, magazine racks, wooden bowls & trays. }} * {{buy | name=Omi Sweet Shop | alt= | url=http://www.mussoorie.info | email=mittalashwani@hotmail.com | address=Landour Bazaar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9837171819 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-03-15 | content=Bal mithai and chocolate barfi. The shop is more than 150 years old and locally famous for Gulab Jamuns, Son Halwa, Balushai, Ghewar, Singori, Pan Gilori, variety of Mathries, etc. They also send Bal Mithai and Pure Chocolate Barfi by courier, all across India. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Clark's Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Mall Rd | lat=30.455342 | long=78.078255 | directions= | phone=+91 135 263 2393 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-20:00 | price= | content=Kurli This multi-cuisine place has a bar and a bakery that are part of the menu. }} *{{eat | name=Four Seasons | url= | email= | address=Kulri Bazar, The Mall | lat= | long= | directions=near Picture Palace on the Mall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-23:00 | price=₹200-₹500 pp | content=Great place to have Indian, Chinese and Continental food. It is most famous for its Chinese cuisine and is cherished by the regular tourists as well as the locals. }} * {{eat | name=Green Vegetarian | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kurli | lat=30.455781 | long=78.080352 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An amazing biryani from locally grown basmati rice makes it a treat to dine here. The Chinese food comes as a close second favourite. }} *{{eat | name=Kalsang Chinese & Thai Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=near Cafe Coffee Day, nearer to BSNL office | lat=30.456133 | long=78.077614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-22:00 | price= | content=A restaurant that provides authentic Tibetan, Chinese and Thai dishes. This restaurant is run by Tibetan family who is the youngest brother of six sibling. }} * {{eat | name=Laxmi Mistan | alt= | url= | email= | address=at Gandhi Chowk | lat=30.459812 | long=78.064484 | directions= | phone=+91 97583 47742 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=07:00-20:00 | price= | content=An amazing candy shop joint which serves lovely paranthas. }} * {{eat | name=Lovely Omelette Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.455353 | long=78.079286 | directions=on the mall road at Kulri Bazaar | phone=+91 135 263 1120 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=08:00-21:00 | price= | content=Probably serves the best omelettes in Mussoorie. This hundred square foot outlet is a favourite with students and ex-student tourists. }} * {{eat | name=Madras Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=at Kulri Bazaar | lat=30.455787 | long=78.080650 | directions= | phone=+91 98373 71084 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-20:00 | price= | content=Serves piping hot '''Dosas''' (spicy crisp vegetarian crepe). }} *{{eat | name=Omi Sweet Shop | url=http://www.mussoorie.info | email=ashwani@mussoorie.info | address=Landour Bazaar | lat=30.462005 | long=78.071048 | directions=200 mtrs ahead of Clock Tower | phone=+91 2632445 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Oldest sweet shop of Uttarakhand. Serving quality sweets from last 151 years. The shop was established in 1860 during the British period. Gulab jamuns, pure chocolate barfi, kalakand, sonhalwa are among the favourites. }} * {{eat | name=Raj Kamal | alt= | url= | email= | address=Library Bazar, The Mall Rd | lat=30.460051 | long=78.065132 | directions= | phone=+91 135 263 1266 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=· 08:00-22:00 | price= | content=Nice place to dine specially north Indian food. It is located on the mall road near Uphaar. Very well behaved waiters. }} * {{eat | name=Rice Bowl | url= | email= | address=Mall Rd | lat=30.456174 | long=78.078209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Chinese and Tibetan food restaurant run by a very friendly Tibetan family. The food is delicious and cheap. }} * {{eat | name=Uphar Vegetarian, | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mall Road few feet away from Laxmi Mistan | lat=30.459974 | long=78.065036 | directions= | phone=+91 135 263 0342 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=08:30-23:00 | price= | content= }} ===Cup of coffee=== * {{eat | name=Cafe Coffee Day | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(on the Mall near the Bank of India) Not-quite-Western prices, this chain cafe will offer you a brief respite from the surrounding sea of chai. }} *{{eat | name=Dominos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In the same building of Cafe Coffee Day. }} ==Drink== ===Pubs & bars === The alcohol is not easily available in the city, so the list of pubs and bars is very short. * {{drink | name= | url= | email= | address=Jaypee Manor Residency, Barlowganj, Dehradun District | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Tavern Restaurant and Bar | url= | email= | address=The Mall, Picture Palace, Dehradun District | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is one of the very rare bars in Mussoorie which offers an experience of drinking with live music. }} * {{drink | name=The Victorian Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Clarides Nabha Residence, Airfield Barlowgunj, Mussoorie 248179 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 135-2631426-427 | tollfree= | hours= | price=150000 | content=The bar has lots of variety of cocktails, mocktails and other alcohol. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Avalon Resorts | alt= | url=http://www.avalonresorts.com/ | email= | address=at Gun Hill | lat=30.459261 | long=78.074723 | directions= | phone=+91 135-2632-892 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | extraphone=+91 135-2632-972 | content=High end - amazing views and lovely cottages. Friendly service. Pick up and drop from Mall road for a fee }} * {{sleep | name=Broadway | alt= | url= | email= | address=Camels Back Rd | lat=30.456892 | long=78.080384 | directions= | phone=+91 135 263 2243 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Although Broadway is very close to the Mall and all it's attractions, it is in a quiet spot (except for the call to prayer from the nearby masjid) overlooking the valley. It offers reasonable rates, and friendly staff.Starting ₹500 (off season) }} * {{sleep | name=Country Inn and Suites by Carlson | alt= | url=http://www.countryinns.com/mussoorie-hotel-in-248179/indcimu | email= | address=Convent Rd | lat=30.450468 | long=78.082535 | directions=Around 1 km from Library Chowk | phone=+91 135 263 5601 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Part of the Country Inn and Suites chain, a little away from Mall Road. Going to Mall Road requires a trip over steep terrain, but the hotel provides pickup/dropoff so guests don't have to negotiate the terrain by themselves. Snow capped peaks might be visible from hotel compound on clear days. }} * {{sleep | name=Country Inn Mussoorie | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91-0135-2631 196 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Kincreg, Dehradun Credit cards: not accepted Tariff: ₹1,150 (non air-conditioned double room), ₹1,650 (air-conditioned double room), ₹1,850 (suite) }} * {{sleep | name=Honeymoon Inn | alt= | url=http://www.hotelhoneymooninn.net | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 135 2632 378 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=The Mall, Tariff: ₹1,500 (double room) in off season. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Ashoka Continental | alt= | url= | email=uhl@uttrakhandhotels.com | address=The Mall, Library Chowk | lat=30.460502 | long=78.064974 | directions= | phone=+91 11 4622 3300 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Situated in the heart of the City Hotel Ashoka offers a panoramic view of hills and valley, most enchanting view of sun kissing Shivalik Peaks. Tariff Ranges from ₹1350-₹2500. Tel : +91 11-42437263-66, Fax : +91 11-26133299, }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Dwaper | alt= | url= | email=mittalashwani@hotmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Opp. Kempty Taxi Stand - 150 mtrs from THE MALL, LIBRARY | phone=+91 135 263 2925, +91 135 263 0825 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Roof Top Parking with Homely Food and good budget rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Emerald Heights | alt= | url=https://www.hotelemeraldheights.in/ | email= | address=Camel Back Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 135-2713826, +91 135-2631346 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A nature friendly hotel offering rooms and cottage. }} * {{sleep | name=H. Grand | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near to Honeymoon Inn on the opposite side of the street, opposite to the aquarium | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Its an old (100yrs+) hotel/building, the rooms are large, clean but basic. Room rents are low at ₹500 for double room. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Parkwood | url= | email= | address=Kulri Bazar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=10:00 | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nand Residency | url=http://www.nandresidency.com | email= | address=The Mall, Kulri, Mussoorie - 248179 | lat= | long= | directions=In the centre of the town, approx. 60 metres from The Mall Opp State Bank Of India | phone=+91 135-2632088, +91 135-2631442, +91 135-265929 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=10:00 | price=3000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Jaypee Residency Manor | alt= | url=https://www.jaypeehotels.com/hotel/jaypee-residency-manor-mussoorie | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 135 6602261 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2020-04-29 | content=On a hilltop. Signature dishes of [https://www.jaypeehotels.com/dining/jaypee-residency-manor-mussoorie/regency Regency restaurant]: Bhatti Da Murgh, Matar Wali Tikki, Bhuni Chaat, Dal Regency, Oven Roasted Fish. [https://www.jaypeehotels.com/dining/jaypee-residency-manor-mussoorie/cafe-manor Cafe Manor] at the Valley View tower (open 8AM-11PM) offers a mix of international flavors. They also have bars called [https://www.jaypeehotels.com/dining/jaypee-residency-manor-mussoorie/marshal-s-lounge Marshals Lounge] (open noon to 11PM). }} * {{sleep | name=Shiva Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kulri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Near the main mall road away from the daily commotion. Nice food, and good rooms. }} ==Stay safe== Crime is low in Mussoorie. If you are travelling alone then it is advisable to stay in a hotel in Mussoorie itself and not in a remote area. ==Connect== === Mobile phones === You need to provide a Photo ID and a photograph to subscribe for either a postpaid or prepaid mobile phone connection. * {{listing | name=Airtel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=GSM Triband }} * {{listing | name=Cellone | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=GSM Triband }} * {{listing | name=Idea Cellular | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=GSM Triband has very good connectivity throughout Mussoorie }} * {{listing | name=Vodafone | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=GSM Triband }} === Internet === * {{listing | name = Banaras Cyber Cafe | url = | email = | address = | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +91-0135-2633 703 | tollfree = | fax = | hours = | price = | lastedit = 2025-05-02 | content = (Next to Green Vegetarian restaurant, Kulri, desktops and laser printers. }} * {{listing | name = FastTrack Cyber Cafe | url = | email = | address = | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +91-0135-2632 154 | tollfree = | fax = | hours = | price = | lastedit = 2025-05-02 | content = Opp. Clarks Hotel, Mall Road }} * {{listing | name = OM Cyber Cafe | alt = | url = | email = | address = | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +91-0135-2630501 | tollfree = | hours = | price = | lastedit = 2025-05-02 | content = Near Bata Company, Kulri, Has a nice fast connection, and also offers wireless, so you can also bring your own laptop. All systems have headsets }} * {{listing | name = Sahney's Internet Cafe | alt = | url = | email = | address = | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +91-0135-2632 510 | tollfree = | hours = | price = | lastedit = 2025-05-02 | content = Landour Bazaar near Gurudwara, Sahney's has a nice fast connection, and also offers wireless. All systems have headsets }} ==Go next== * {{listing | name=[[Dhanaulti]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.423000 | long=78.248000 | directions=About 28&nbsp;km from Mussoorie | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Dhanaulti.jpg | content=A quiet forest area converted into two eco-parks by the government. Don't miss the forest trails (one inside the Eco Park 2 and the other just outside it). Catch a taxi (approx ₹900) from the Library stand. }} *'''Kanatal''' – It is located around 33&nbsp;km from Mussoorie and now emerging as one of the popular destinations in Uttarakhand. The peacefulness of this place attracts many domestic tourists. *'''Lakha Mandal''' - 80&nbsp;km from Mussoorie, archaeologically important. *'''Naga Tibba ''' - Around 55&nbsp;km away from Mussoorie, it is highly exciting place for trekkers. Naga Tibba is highest peak around the city with height of 3,000 m. In order to reach such an adventurous place, one has to drive 35&nbsp;km and then travel remaining distance doing the trek. Visitors also get an opportunity to interact with locals of Garhwali villages while doing the trek. *'''Surkhanda Devi Temple''' - Around 35&nbsp;km from the city, the temple demands a stiff climbing of more than 2 km from devotees. The road to Surkhanda Devi temple passes through highly dense forest having rich flora and fauna. While doing the trek, you can get majestic view of panoramic snow along the spectacular Himalayan range. *[[Yamunotri]]- A great pilgrim temple 4,000 metres above sea level. You can do a trek to Dodital from Hanumanchatti nearby. {{usablecity}} {{Geo|30.45|78.08}} {{isPartOf|Garhwal}} f9ecky98z87d8t30x7gah5w47nsn7kl 5091225 5091169 2025-07-11T07:09:31Z DaGizza 162256 /* Sleep */ Updated listing for H. Grand 5091225 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mena-asia_default_banner.jpg}} '''[https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in/destination/mussoorie/ Mussoorie]''' is a [[Hill stations in India|hill station]] in the [[Garhwal]] region of [[Uttarakhand]]. ==Understand== [[File:Beautiful_Mussoorie.jpg|thumb|View of the hills in Mussoorie towards sunset]] With its green hills and varied flora and fauna, Mussoorie is a fascinating hill resort and a fabulous honeymoon spot. Commanding a wonderful view of extensive Himalayan snow ranges to the northeast and glittering views of the Doon Valley, [[Roorkee]], [[Saharanpur]] and [[Haridwar]] to the South, the town presents a fairyland atmosphere to tourists. Its history dates back to 1827 when Captain Young, an adventurous military officer, explored the site and laid the foundation of this holiday town. ===Climate=== At an altitude of over {{m|2000}}, Mussoorie is a popular retreat from the heat of the plains. In winter (Dec-Feb) you can expect freezing weather and snow. The monsoon arrives in July and stays through to mid-September. == Get in == === By bus === Buses leave from [[Dehradun]] train station. There are two buses which go to opposite ends of the Mussoorie Mall, Library and Picture Palace. It is quite a hike from one to the other, so make sure you catch the right one. To reach Kempty Falls directly from Dehradun catch a bus from the Dehradun Railway station Hill Bus Services Section or take a taxi. You should look for buses heading for destinations like Barkot, Nainbagh, Yamunotri, and Purola (Caution: sometimes Purola buses go via Vikas nagar which may take you off the route completely). You can also take a bus to the Library end of Mussoorie and walk to the Kempty Bus stop and take a bus or taxi or a milkvan or even hitch a ride with a tourist going in that direction!! Bus fee for Library end or Kulri end (from Dehradun) is ₹47. Toll Tax is payable on entering Kempty Village per bus/taxi/car/scooter. Bus fare from library end to Kempty is around ₹15. === By taxi === It is possible to hire a taxi for the trip up to Mussoorie. Rates are ₹610 per taxi and ₹50 extra for the night charges but you can pay per seat as well in a shared taxi which normally accommodates up to five passengers. Shared or chartered taxis too are available near the same Hill Section Bus terminal and the rates are controlled by the taxi union. These rates are generally displayed on a board outside their office. Mussoorie is just 38&nbsp;km from Dehradun and you can reach here by taxis and buses. It takes approximately 1.5 hours and ₹47 for the regular buses to reach Mussoorie. From the Dehradun railway station, taxis charge around ₹610. Shared taxis charging a little over ₹100 per person are also available. == Get around == {{Mapframe|30.458511|78.073720|zoom=14}} [[File:Rickshaw 2.jpg|thumb|Tourist enjoy a rickshaw ride on Mall Road]] Once in Mussoorie, the affordable and effective way to get around the city by bus or cycle rickshaws. Cycle rickshaws for traveling within city may cost approximately ₹20. However, it may get crowded, especially during peak hours. For the most part, you will want to get around on foot. The Mall is closed to most vehicles. === By rickshaw === A relatively flat section of the Mall allows a fleet of rickshaws to ply their trade. You can catch a ride from the Library end of the Mall to about the midpoint. A full day of Mussoorie sightseeing by rickshaw is cheaper than private cabs and taxis, albeit time-consuming. === By taxi === Taxis are not a useful form of transport within Mussoorie. If you are heading up to Landour with luggage, it would be wise to catch a ride. They can also be hired for outings to places such as Kempty Falls or Happy Valley. There are taxi stands at both ends of the Mall. Many locals offer 'taxi' services, and if you are staying longer you will likely find these (slightly cheaper) alternatives. But all the taxis are under a union, so the rates do not vary. One has to hire them through one of the union offices at library end, mall road, Kempty bus stand etc. You can also rent a private car, which will cost more but less time-consuming. A complete day of sightseeing around the city by taxi including Dhanoltri and Kempty Falls costs around ₹1800. ==See== [[File:Kempty Falls02.jpg|thumb|right|Kempty Falls]] [[Image:Dhanaulti.jpg|thumb|right|Misty Eco Park 1]] * {{see | name=Bhatta falls | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.438933 | long=78.074389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the way back to [[Dehradun]] from Mussoorie take the opportunity to see Bhatta Falls. 2-km trek, 3&nbsp;km away from Mussoorie. Mussoorie Lake is also another site to relax that is located on the same route. Boating is available there. }} * {{see | name=Camty Fall | alt=Kempty Falls | url= | email= | address=Mussoorie road teen pani | lat=30.488146 | long=78.037015 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Kempty_Water_Fall_Mussoorie.jpg | content=About 15 km from Mussoorie, this now over-built spot is a popular tourist destination. Catch a taxi or a bus from the Library stand. }} * {{see | name=Company Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.458511 | long=78.073720 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It is a government initiative, a man made beautiful park with artificial falls and fun rides. From Gun Hill Point rickshaws are available. It costs 100/- fixed rate per person round trip. }} * {{see | name=Gun Hill Point | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.459184 | long=78.073302 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Honeymooning_couple_on_top_of_gunhill_in_mussourie.jpg | content=You can enjoy the trolley ride to '''Gun Hill''' to view the splendid view of all the city and ice capped Himalaya. Trolley charge is ₹55/- round trip. Lots of photographic opportunities available as traditional dress being worn by populace is common. Up there, it is like a small fair with lots of stalls for games, snacks and nick-knacks. }} * {{see | name=Happy Valley | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.472887 | long=78.045221 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A couple kilometres from the Library end of the Mall, Happy Valley is a 5,000 strong Tibetan settlement. This is a beautiful spot for a short hike. Taxis and possibly bicycle rickshaws ply this route. }} * {{see | name=Himalayan Weavers | alt= | url=https://www.himalayanweavers.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=below the Himalayan Guest house | phone=+91 9759009830 | tollfree= | hours=10AM to 5PM | price= | content=An interesting place on the way to [[Dhanaulti]] which uses natural dyes to produce hand-woven shawls, scarves and throws from wool, eri silk and pashmina. They have a shop 8 km from Mussoorie on the Mussoorie-Dhanaulti Road. }} * {{see | name=Jawahar Aquarium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.457722 | long=78.074413 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Located on Mall Road, Jawahar Aquarium has a very nice collection of fish. Entry ticket is only ₹15. }} * {{see | name=Jhari Pani Falls | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.458511 | long=78.073720 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It is 5&nbsp;km away from the library bus stand. From Dehradun to Mussoorie, for Jharipani one has to take a right turn 11&nbsp;km before Mussoorie. Motorable roads are nicely maintained by the government. To reach the falls from main road. It's a 2-km trek. }} * {{see | name=Lake Mist | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.458511 | long=78.073720 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=About 5 km before Kempty Falls on the Mussoorie-Kempty road is a good picnic spot with accommodation and restaurant facilities; boating is also available. With the Kempty river flowing through it, Lake Mist has many small waterfalls made by the river. }} * {{see | name=Lal Tibba | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.466743 | long=78.095053 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A scenic 5 km uphill walk from Picture Palace to the highest point in Mussoorie. Passes through Landour Bazaar.Old light house is the nice thing to see there. It's a long walk to Lal Tibba from Picture Palace, about 2 to 3 hours. }} * {{see | name=Tibetan Buddhist Temple | alt=Shedup Choepelling temple | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.458511 | long=78.073720 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It is located on the '''Happy Valley''' road close to the IAS Academy. The temple can be visited between 07:00 to 17:00. Mussoorie was the Dalai Lama's first place of refuge when he fled Tibet, before he was granted land in [[Dharamshala]] by then Prime Minister ''Jawaharlal Nehru''. }} * {{see | name=The Mall road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.454893 | long=78.08378 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2025-05-02| content=The mall road is long stretch of road surrounded by shops, restaurants, and hotels. }} * {{see | name=George Everest House | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.459102 | long=78.022885 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-03-08 | content= }} * {{see | name=Hawa Mahal View Point | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.464204 | long=78.071402 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-04 | content= }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Cambridge Book Depot | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Mall Rd | lat=30.4561 | long=78.0778 | directions=Opposite State Bank of India | phone=+91 135 263 2224 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-12 | content=The oldest book shop in the area, the well-read and the owner of the shop is genial and helpful. }} * {{do | name=Landour Language School | alt= | url=http://landourlanguageschool.com/ | email=info@landourlanguageschool.com | address=41/2 Landour Cantt | lat= | long= | directions=about 2 km above Landour Bazaar | phone=+91 135 2631487 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The school offers classes in Hindi, Urdu, Sanskrit and the local dialect of Garhwali. }} *{{do | name=The Walks of Mussoorie | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Mussoorie itself offer some walks around the town. On walk you can take from Library Point to Landhaur Market via camel's back road. It is still free from noise and offers beautiful views. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Branded Stores | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A variety of branded store like, Reebok, Liberty, Koutons, Music world, PlanetM and Wingsfield have come up on the main mall road. }} * {{buy | name=G. Dass & Co. | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mall Road | lat= | long= | directions=opp. Clarks Hotel | phone=+91 135-2632154 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The oldest photography shop in Mussoorie. This shop offers facilities such as printing photographs. }} *{{buy | name=Om Gift Emporium | url= | email= | address=80 Kulri Bazar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 135-2630501 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} *{{buy | name=Standard Dry Cleaners | url= | email= | address=The mall Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Wooden Handicrafts | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 135-2631373 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hilly Cottage Industries(Ropeways Shopping Centre, The Mall Road, is one of the famous shops on The Mall Road. Here you can choose from a wide variety of wooden walking sticks, hand carved jewellery boxes, magazine racks, wooden bowls & trays. }} * {{buy | name=Omi Sweet Shop | alt= | url=http://www.mussoorie.info | email=mittalashwani@hotmail.com | address=Landour Bazaar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9837171819 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-03-15 | content=Bal mithai and chocolate barfi. The shop is more than 150 years old and locally famous for Gulab Jamuns, Son Halwa, Balushai, Ghewar, Singori, Pan Gilori, variety of Mathries, etc. They also send Bal Mithai and Pure Chocolate Barfi by courier, all across India. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Clark's Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Mall Rd | lat=30.455342 | long=78.078255 | directions= | phone=+91 135 263 2393 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-20:00 | price= | content=Kurli This multi-cuisine place has a bar and a bakery that are part of the menu. }} *{{eat | name=Four Seasons | url= | email= | address=Kulri Bazar, The Mall | lat= | long= | directions=near Picture Palace on the Mall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-23:00 | price=₹200-₹500 pp | content=Great place to have Indian, Chinese and Continental food. It is most famous for its Chinese cuisine and is cherished by the regular tourists as well as the locals. }} * {{eat | name=Green Vegetarian | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kurli | lat=30.455781 | long=78.080352 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An amazing biryani from locally grown basmati rice makes it a treat to dine here. The Chinese food comes as a close second favourite. }} *{{eat | name=Kalsang Chinese & Thai Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=near Cafe Coffee Day, nearer to BSNL office | lat=30.456133 | long=78.077614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-22:00 | price= | content=A restaurant that provides authentic Tibetan, Chinese and Thai dishes. This restaurant is run by Tibetan family who is the youngest brother of six sibling. }} * {{eat | name=Laxmi Mistan | alt= | url= | email= | address=at Gandhi Chowk | lat=30.459812 | long=78.064484 | directions= | phone=+91 97583 47742 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=07:00-20:00 | price= | content=An amazing candy shop joint which serves lovely paranthas. }} * {{eat | name=Lovely Omelette Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.455353 | long=78.079286 | directions=on the mall road at Kulri Bazaar | phone=+91 135 263 1120 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=08:00-21:00 | price= | content=Probably serves the best omelettes in Mussoorie. This hundred square foot outlet is a favourite with students and ex-student tourists. }} * {{eat | name=Madras Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=at Kulri Bazaar | lat=30.455787 | long=78.080650 | directions= | phone=+91 98373 71084 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-20:00 | price= | content=Serves piping hot '''Dosas''' (spicy crisp vegetarian crepe). }} *{{eat | name=Omi Sweet Shop | url=http://www.mussoorie.info | email=ashwani@mussoorie.info | address=Landour Bazaar | lat=30.462005 | long=78.071048 | directions=200 mtrs ahead of Clock Tower | phone=+91 2632445 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Oldest sweet shop of Uttarakhand. Serving quality sweets from last 151 years. The shop was established in 1860 during the British period. Gulab jamuns, pure chocolate barfi, kalakand, sonhalwa are among the favourites. }} * {{eat | name=Raj Kamal | alt= | url= | email= | address=Library Bazar, The Mall Rd | lat=30.460051 | long=78.065132 | directions= | phone=+91 135 263 1266 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=· 08:00-22:00 | price= | content=Nice place to dine specially north Indian food. It is located on the mall road near Uphaar. Very well behaved waiters. }} * {{eat | name=Rice Bowl | url= | email= | address=Mall Rd | lat=30.456174 | long=78.078209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Chinese and Tibetan food restaurant run by a very friendly Tibetan family. The food is delicious and cheap. }} * {{eat | name=Uphar Vegetarian, | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mall Road few feet away from Laxmi Mistan | lat=30.459974 | long=78.065036 | directions= | phone=+91 135 263 0342 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=08:30-23:00 | price= | content= }} ===Cup of coffee=== * {{eat | name=Cafe Coffee Day | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(on the Mall near the Bank of India) Not-quite-Western prices, this chain cafe will offer you a brief respite from the surrounding sea of chai. }} *{{eat | name=Dominos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In the same building of Cafe Coffee Day. }} ==Drink== ===Pubs & bars === The alcohol is not easily available in the city, so the list of pubs and bars is very short. * {{drink | name= | url= | email= | address=Jaypee Manor Residency, Barlowganj, Dehradun District | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Tavern Restaurant and Bar | url= | email= | address=The Mall, Picture Palace, Dehradun District | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is one of the very rare bars in Mussoorie which offers an experience of drinking with live music. }} * {{drink | name=The Victorian Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Clarides Nabha Residence, Airfield Barlowgunj, Mussoorie 248179 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 135-2631426-427 | tollfree= | hours= | price=150000 | content=The bar has lots of variety of cocktails, mocktails and other alcohol. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Avalon Resorts | alt= | url=http://www.avalonresorts.com/ | email= | address=at Gun Hill | lat=30.459261 | long=78.074723 | directions= | phone=+91 135-2632-892 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | extraphone=+91 135-2632-972 | content=High end - amazing views and lovely cottages. Friendly service. Pick up and drop from Mall road for a fee }} * {{sleep | name=Broadway | alt= | url= | email= | address=Camels Back Rd | lat=30.456892 | long=78.080384 | directions= | phone=+91 135 263 2243 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Although Broadway is very close to the Mall and all it's attractions, it is in a quiet spot (except for the call to prayer from the nearby masjid) overlooking the valley. It offers reasonable rates, and friendly staff.Starting ₹500 (off season) }} * {{sleep | name=Country Inn and Suites by Carlson | alt= | url=http://www.countryinns.com/mussoorie-hotel-in-248179/indcimu | email= | address=Convent Rd | lat=30.450468 | long=78.082535 | directions=Around 1 km from Library Chowk | phone=+91 135 263 5601 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Part of the Country Inn and Suites chain, a little away from Mall Road. Going to Mall Road requires a trip over steep terrain, but the hotel provides pickup/dropoff so guests don't have to negotiate the terrain by themselves. Snow capped peaks might be visible from hotel compound on clear days. }} * {{sleep | name=Country Inn Mussoorie | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91-0135-2631 196 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Kincreg, Dehradun Credit cards: not accepted Tariff: ₹1,150 (non air-conditioned double room), ₹1,650 (air-conditioned double room), ₹1,850 (suite) }} * {{sleep | name=Honeymoon Inn | alt= | url=http://www.hotelhoneymooninn.net | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 135 2632 378 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=The Mall, Tariff: ₹1,500 (double room) in off season. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Ashoka Continental | alt= | url= | email=uhl@uttrakhandhotels.com | address=The Mall, Library Chowk | lat=30.460502 | long=78.064974 | directions= | phone=+91 11 4622 3300 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Situated in the heart of the City Hotel Ashoka offers a panoramic view of hills and valley, most enchanting view of sun kissing Shivalik Peaks. Tariff Ranges from ₹1350-₹2500. Tel : +91 11-42437263-66, Fax : +91 11-26133299, }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Dwaper | alt= | url= | email=mittalashwani@hotmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Opp. Kempty Taxi Stand - 150 mtrs from THE MALL, LIBRARY | phone=+91 135 263 2925, +91 135 263 0825 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Roof Top Parking with Homely Food and good budget rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Emerald Heights | alt= | url=https://www.hotelemeraldheights.in/ | email= | address=Camel Back Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 135-2713826, +91 135-2631346 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A nature friendly hotel offering rooms and cottage. }} * {{sleep | name=H. Grand | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near to Honeymoon Inn on the opposite side of the street, opposite to the aquarium | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=It's an old (100yrs+) hotel/building, the rooms are large, clean but basic. Room rents are low at ₹500 for double room. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Parkwood | url= | email= | address=Kulri Bazar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=10:00 | price= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Nand Residency | url=http://www.nandresidency.com | email= | address=The Mall, Kulri, Mussoorie - 248179 | lat= | long= | directions=In the centre of the town, approx. 60 metres from The Mall Opp State Bank Of India | phone=+91 135-2632088, +91 135-2631442, +91 135-265929 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=10:00 | price=3000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Jaypee Residency Manor | alt= | url=https://www.jaypeehotels.com/hotel/jaypee-residency-manor-mussoorie | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 135 6602261 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2020-04-29 | content=On a hilltop. Signature dishes of [https://www.jaypeehotels.com/dining/jaypee-residency-manor-mussoorie/regency Regency restaurant]: Bhatti Da Murgh, Matar Wali Tikki, Bhuni Chaat, Dal Regency, Oven Roasted Fish. [https://www.jaypeehotels.com/dining/jaypee-residency-manor-mussoorie/cafe-manor Cafe Manor] at the Valley View tower (open 8AM-11PM) offers a mix of international flavors. They also have bars called [https://www.jaypeehotels.com/dining/jaypee-residency-manor-mussoorie/marshal-s-lounge Marshals Lounge] (open noon to 11PM). }} * {{sleep | name=Shiva Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kulri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Near the main mall road away from the daily commotion. Nice food, and good rooms. }} ==Stay safe== Crime is low in Mussoorie. If you are travelling alone then it is advisable to stay in a hotel in Mussoorie itself and not in a remote area. ==Connect== === Mobile phones === You need to provide a Photo ID and a photograph to subscribe for either a postpaid or prepaid mobile phone connection. * {{listing | name=Airtel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=GSM Triband }} * {{listing | name=Cellone | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=GSM Triband }} * {{listing | name=Idea Cellular | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=GSM Triband has very good connectivity throughout Mussoorie }} * {{listing | name=Vodafone | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=GSM Triband }} === Internet === * {{listing | name = Banaras Cyber Cafe | url = | email = | address = | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +91-0135-2633 703 | tollfree = | fax = | hours = | price = | lastedit = 2025-05-02 | content = (Next to Green Vegetarian restaurant, Kulri, desktops and laser printers. }} * {{listing | name = FastTrack Cyber Cafe | url = | email = | address = | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +91-0135-2632 154 | tollfree = | fax = | hours = | price = | lastedit = 2025-05-02 | content = Opp. Clarks Hotel, Mall Road }} * {{listing | name = OM Cyber Cafe | alt = | url = | email = | address = | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +91-0135-2630501 | tollfree = | hours = | price = | lastedit = 2025-05-02 | content = Near Bata Company, Kulri, Has a nice fast connection, and also offers wireless, so you can also bring your own laptop. All systems have headsets }} * {{listing | name = Sahney's Internet Cafe | alt = | url = | email = | address = | lat = | long = | directions = | phone = +91-0135-2632 510 | tollfree = | hours = | price = | lastedit = 2025-05-02 | content = Landour Bazaar near Gurudwara, Sahney's has a nice fast connection, and also offers wireless. All systems have headsets }} ==Go next== * {{listing | name=[[Dhanaulti]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.423000 | long=78.248000 | directions=About 28&nbsp;km from Mussoorie | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Dhanaulti.jpg | content=A quiet forest area converted into two eco-parks by the government. Don't miss the forest trails (one inside the Eco Park 2 and the other just outside it). Catch a taxi (approx ₹900) from the Library stand. }} *'''Kanatal''' – It is located around 33&nbsp;km from Mussoorie and now emerging as one of the popular destinations in Uttarakhand. The peacefulness of this place attracts many domestic tourists. *'''Lakha Mandal''' - 80&nbsp;km from Mussoorie, archaeologically important. *'''Naga Tibba ''' - Around 55&nbsp;km away from Mussoorie, it is highly exciting place for trekkers. Naga Tibba is highest peak around the city with height of 3,000 m. In order to reach such an adventurous place, one has to drive 35&nbsp;km and then travel remaining distance doing the trek. Visitors also get an opportunity to interact with locals of Garhwali villages while doing the trek. *'''Surkhanda Devi Temple''' - Around 35&nbsp;km from the city, the temple demands a stiff climbing of more than 2 km from devotees. The road to Surkhanda Devi temple passes through highly dense forest having rich flora and fauna. While doing the trek, you can get majestic view of panoramic snow along the spectacular Himalayan range. *[[Yamunotri]]- A great pilgrim temple 4,000 metres above sea level. You can do a trek to Dodital from Hanumanchatti nearby. {{usablecity}} {{Geo|30.45|78.08}} {{isPartOf|Garhwal}} mlg0tp373ys7wlouxcl3enplu9hq2tk 0 23598 5091339 5048070 2025-07-11T10:42:29Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ rm JPY 5091339 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bagan (Myanmar) banner Sunset.jpg|caption=The temples of Bagan at dawn}} {{Warningbox| A nationwide state of emergency remains in force, with nighttime curfews enforced in many cities including Yangon. <!--- Mainland Chinese visitors should be extra careful due to hostility from protesters, and should avoid speaking Mandarin near protest venues.---> Avoid facilities and vehicles linked to security forces and military administration, monitor local media closely, and keep in regular contact with your embassy. Ethnic armed organisations are waging a large-scale offensive in [[Northern Myanmar|Northern]] and [[Eastern Myanmar]] from the Chinese-Myanmar border. Martial law is imposed in part of Shan State, and border crossings along the Chinese-Myanmar border are suspended. There are reports that the prices of many necessities is soaring. Many governments advise against all travel to Myanmar, though the main tourist circuit comprising of [[Yangon]], [[Mandalay]], [[Bagan]] and [[Inle Lake]] is far-removed from the violence and generally safe to visit — corroborated by the UK government's travel advice. A massive earthquake hit the area near Sagaing on 28th March 2025, and a state of emergency has been declared. The earthquake tremors could be felt as far as Hanoi, Vietnam. Many governments advise against all travel to Mandalay and nearby areas. |australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/myanmar |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/myanmar |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar |ie=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/myanmar-burma |sg=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/countries-regions/m/myanmar/travel-page |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/myanmar |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/burma-travel-advisory.html |lastedit=2025-03-31 }} '''Myanmar''' (မြန်မာ ''myanma''), or '''Burma''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]]. The country features awe-inspiring ancient temples, lively local markets, and captivating landscapes, such as unspoiled beaches, picturesque hills, and verdant forests. The genuine warmth of the Burmese people, combined with delectable cuisine, creates an ideal destination for gastronomes and culture aficionados alike. Since the 1960s, the country has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. For a considerable period, Myanmar has been afflicted with political instability, sectarian violence, corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and a prolonged history of colonial exploitation that paid scant attention to human development. == Regions == {{Regionlist | regionmap=Burma Regions Map.png | regionmapsize=425px | region1name=[[Southern Myanmar]] | region1items=''Ayeyarwady, Bago, Yangon'' | region1color=#CAA7C9 | region1description=The lowlands of the Irrawaddy Delta with the largest city and former capital Yangon. | region2name=[[Central Myanmar]] | region2items=''Magway, Mandalay, Naypyitaw'' | region2color=#E5B775 | region2description=Mandalay, historical and archaeological sites and cool hill towns. | region3name=[[Western Myanmar]] | region3items=''Rakhine, Chin'' | region3color=#A4C78A | region3description=Remote mountainous regions and some lovely beaches on the Bay of Bengal. | region4name=[[Northern Myanmar]] | region4items=''Sagaing, Kachin'' | region4color=#d17c82 | region4description=A huge, fractious region including the southern reaches of the Himalayas and many tribes. | region5name=[[Eastern Myanmar]] | region5items=''Shan, Kayah'' | region5color=#76AED2 | region5description=The infamous Golden Triangle and a bewildering number of ethnic groups. | region6name=[[Southeastern Myanmar]] | region6items=''Tanintharyi, Mon, Kayin'' | region6color=#DDE28E | region6description=The southern coastal stretch bordering Thailand with a vast number of offshore islands. }} == Cities == * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Naypyidaw]]|wikidata=Q37400}} (''formerly Pyinmana'') — newly designated capital of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]|wikidata=Q800122}} (''formerly Pegu'') — historic city near Yangon full of Buddhist sights * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kawthaung]]|wikidata=Q978611}} — beach town in the far south which is as much like Thailand as Myanmar gets * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mandalay]]|wikidata=Q185518}} — former capital of the Konbaung Dynasty built around the Mandalay Royal Palace and main commercial centre of Upper Myanmar * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mawlamyine]]|wikidata=Q685941}} (''Moulmein'') — capital of Mon State and the third largest city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pyin U Lwin]]|wikidata=Q1360318}} (''Maymyo'') — a cool town (in both temperature and attractions) which is a former British colonial hill station * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taunggyi]]|wikidata=Q1075566}} — capital of Shan State in the heart of the Golden Triangle * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Twante]]|wikidata=Q7857423}} — a delta town that is famous for pottery * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Yangon]]|wikidata=Q37995}} (''formerly Rangoon'') — the economic centre, known for its pagodas and colonial architecture == Other destinations == <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bagan]]|wikidata=Q29317}} — an archaeological zone with thousands of ancient pagodas near the banks of the Irrawaddy River, and a {{UNESCO}} * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Inle Lake]]|wikidata=Q1043461}} — a large shallow lake famous for boat trips, visiting floating villages inhabited by the Intha people, hiking, and also a source of excellent silk * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kengtung]]|wikidata=Q1027111}} — between [[Mong La]] (on the border with China) and [[Tachileik]] (on the border with Thailand) in the Golden Triangle, known for the ''Ann'' (black teeth people) and ''Akha'' tribes and trekking * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kyaiktiyo]]|wikidata=Q6450666}} — a gold-gilded rock sitting atop a cliff and a major pilgrimage site * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mount Popa]]|wikidata=Q1150764}} — an extinct volcano regarded as the Mount Olympus of Myanmar, a green oasis high above the hot plains and an easy day trip from Bagan * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mrauk U]]|wikidata=Q1951490}} — former capital of the Rakhine Kingdom, with many ancient pagodas that serve as a reminder of that era * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngapali]]|wikidata=Q19701446}} — beach resort in western [[Rakhine State]], on the Bay of Bengal * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngwe Saung]]|wikidata=Q7023181}} — longest stretch of beach in Ayeyarwaddy (English: Irrawaddy) Division, white sandy beach and crystal clear water are the features of Ngwe Saung Beach * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pyay]]|wikidata=Q691747}} — a town on the Irrawaddy River midway between Yangon and Bagan, known for its archaeological site ''Sri Kittara'', the ancient Pyu capital from 2 to 9 CE * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pathein]]|wikidata=Q870103}} — a river town in the Irrawaddy delta, known for manufacture of umbrellas, gateway to Chuang Tha and Ngwe Saung Beaches == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMyanmar.png}} === History === Like most of Southeast Asia's countries, Myanmar's people and history is a glorious mishmash of settlers and invaders from all fronts. The Mon and the Pyu are thought to have come from [[India]], while the now dominant Bamar (Burmese) migrated through [[Tibet]] and, by 849, had founded a powerful kingdom centred on [[Bagan]]. The ethnic diversity of the region, and the dominance of the Bamar people in the central plains, set up the geopolitical struggles between them and the multitude of smaller ethnic groups surrounding, which have continued unabated until the present day. From the 9th century to the 19th century, the Burmese empire grew through conquests of [[Thailand]] ([[Ayutthaya]]) and India ([[Manipur]]), and shrank under attacks from [[China]] and internal rebellions. [[File:Bago, Myanmar (Burma) - panoramio (44).jpg|thumb|Resting Buddha statue in Bago]] Eventually, [[United Kingdom|Britain]] conquered Burma over a period of 62 years (1824-1886) and incorporated it into its Indian Empire, and King Thibaw, the last Burmese monarch, was exiled to [[Ratnagiri]] in what is today [[India]]. Like in their other colonies, the British maintained control partly through a "divide and conquer" strategy, in which they deliberately stoked tensions between different ethnic and religious groups, resulting in ethnic and religious conflicts that have never been resolved. For example, bureaucrats were imported from India, and other government positions tended to be manned by locals from the smaller ethnic groups. Burma was administered as a province of India until 1937 when it became a separate colony. During the Second World War, Burma was a major battleground as the Allies fought the Japanese for dominance over Asia. The [[Burma Road]] was built to get supplies to China. The Thailand-Burma railway (the so-called "Death Railway") from [[Kanchanaburi]] in Thailand over the River Kwai to Burma was built by the Japanese using forced labour &mdash; Allied prisoners-of-war, indentured Thai labourers, Burmese people and other Southeast Asians. They had to work in appalling conditions and a great number of them died (estimated at 80,000) during construction of the railway. Large parts of Western Burma, particularly the hilly areas bordering India and the city of [[Mandalay]], were severely damaged during the war. Burmese independence fighters led by '''General Aung San''' cooperated with the Japanese to oust the British at first; the Japanese promised to grant independence to Burma in exchange. However, life under Japanese occupation was even more brutal than life under British colonialism, and many Burmese were killed, such as in the Kalagong massacre. Aung San subsequently switched allegiance and helped the allies win Burma back from the Japanese. Aung San subsequently led negotiations with the British for Burmese independence after the end of World War II, and the British agreed in 1947 to grant independence to Burma the following year, though Aung San himself was assassinated later in 1947 and never lived to see his dream come true. Independence from the British under the name '''Union of Burma''' was finally attained on 4 January 1948, and General Aung San is regarded by most Burmese people to be their father of independence. The new union brought together various states defined by ethnic identity, many of whom had centuries-long histories of autonomy from and struggles against each other. In the interest of securing their collective independence from Britain, the tribes reached an agreement to submit to collective governance—with power sharing among the ethnicities and states—for ten years, after which each tribe would be afforded the right to secede from the union. The terms of this "Pinlon Agreement" were enshrined in the 1947/1948 constitution of the new Union of Burma. The new central government of the nation quickly worked to consolidate its power, marginalising and angering tribal leaders and setting off ethnic armed conflict that has continued unabated until the present day. In 1961, more than 200 ethnic leaders from the Shan people, Kachin people, Red Karen, Karen people, Chin peoples, Mon people and Rakhine people met with ethnic Bamar (Burmese) central government authorities to draft a new form of government which would ensure the tribes both autonomy and self-determination within a federal system. [[File:Aung San Suu Kyi December 2011 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Aung San Suu Kyi]] The new government was never formed. Nevertheless, up until Ne Win's coup in 1962, Burma was regarded as one of the most developed and fastest growing economies in Asia, and widely touted as a contender to be the next Japan. Military leader General Ne Win led a coup d'état which ousted the democratically elected government in 1962, and installed himself as leader. General Ne Win dominated the government from 1962 to 1988, first as military ruler, then as self-appointed president, and later as political kingpin. Under Ne Win's rule, widespread corruption and nepotism led the Burmese economy into a downward spiral from which it has never fully recovered. Pro-democracy demonstrations in 1988 were violently crushed, with general Saw Maung taking over in a coup and installing the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) to rule the country, now renamed '''Myanmar'''. Multiparty legislative elections were held in 1990, with the main opposition party - the National League for Democracy (NLD) - winning a landslide victory (392 of 489 seats). But SLORC refused to hand over power, instead placing NLD leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi (daughter of national hero Aung San) under house arrest, which she has endured for 14 of the last 20 years. Today Myanmar, a resource-rich country, suffers from pervasive government controls, inefficient economic policies, and rural poverty. What was once one of the richest and most developed countries in Asia has since slumped into poverty due to widespread corruption. The junta took steps in the early 1990s to liberalise price controls after decades of failure under the "Burmese Way to Socialism," but had to reinstate subsidised prices on staples in the face of food riots, upon which the democracy movement grafted its agenda. The government called out troops and the rioters were defiant until the monks intervened: standing between both sides, they told everyone to go home and they did. The riots caused overseas development assistance to cease and the government subsequently nullified the results of the 1990 legislative elections. In response to the government's attack in May 2003 on Aung San Suu Kyi and her convoy, the [[USA]] imposed new economic sanctions against Myanmar, including bans on imports of products from Myanmar and on provision of financial services by US citizens. [[File:NLD Flag from car Yangon.png|thumb|A National League for Democracy supporter in Yangon]] The summer of 2007 was marked by demonstrations against the military government which were again brutally suppressed. The demonstrations started in August, apparently in an uncoordinated manner, as a protest against a stiff hike in the price of petrol, but morphed into a more serious challenge to the government after three monks were beaten at a protest march in the town of Pakokku. The monks demanded an apology but none was forthcoming and soon processions of monks with begging bowls held upside down filled many cities (including [[Sittwe]], [[Mandalay]] and [[Yangon]]). Yangon, particularly the area around Sule Pagoda in the downtown area, became the centre of these protests. While the monks marched, and many ordinary citizens came out in support of the monks, the world watched as pictures, videos, and blogs flooded the Internet. However, the government soon suppressed the protests by firing on crowds, arresting monks and closing monasteries, and temporarily shut down Internet communications with the rest of the world. This led the US, [[Australia]], [[Canada]] and the [[European Union]] to impose additional sanctions, some targeting the families and finances of the military leaders. [[File:Protesters against the military coup.jpg|thumb|Protesters demonstrating against the 2021 military coup]] Following elections in 2010, Burma began a process of liberalisation that has led to a reduction or removal of sanctions by many nations including the United States. In 2012, Aung San Suu Kyi was elected to the Burmese parliament and allowed to travel to Europe and North America. Censorship of foreign and local news was also suspended. In November 2015, Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won a landslide victory in the nationwide legislative elections and Htin Kyaw, a close ally of Aung San Suu Kyi, became president. In April 2016, Aung San Suu Kyi took office as State Counsellor, a post equivalent to prime minister, making her Myanmar's ''de facto'' head of government. In February 2021, the military once again took power in a coup d'état after a landslide victory by the NLD. Country-wide mass protests and a civil disobedience movement sprung up in the aftermath; protests were brutally crushed as the army killed hundreds of NLD supporters and democratic activists. Thousands of NLD and other pro-democracy politicians, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and community leaders were arrested. Peaceful protests still occur sporadically while other groups of protesters have taken up arms against the military regime, particularly in the border regions. Western countries have re-imposed economic sanctions on Myanmar as a result of the coup. As of mid-2024, the junta controls less than half of the area of the country, and Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) have been successfully mounting co-ordinated attacks with increasing confidence. However, this brutal civil war still has no end in sight. ===Culture=== Myanmar's culture is largely a result of Indian influences intertwined with local traditions and Chinese influences. This can be seen in the various stupas and temples throughout the country, which bear a distinct resemblance to those in northern India. As in neighbouring [[Thailand]], Theravada Buddhism is the single largest religion. 88% of the population follows these Buddhist practices, and even some of the most remote villages will have a temple for people to pray at. Other religions which exist in smaller numbers include Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Animism and ancestor worship can also be found around the country, especially in the more distant, hill tribe regions. One pre-Buddhist tradition that survives in Myanmar is the worship of the '''''Nats''''', or traditional Burmese spirits, and you will see many spirit houses throughout the country dedicated to their worship. Following the spread of Theravada Buddhism, the worship of the Nats was incorporated into Burmese Buddhism, and they are today regarded as subordinates of the Buddha. ===People=== [[File:Burmese people 01.jpg|thumb|Boys in Yangon with thanaka paste on their faces]] The dominant ethnic group in Myanmar is known as the Bamar, from which the original English name of the country, Burma, was derived. Besides the Bamar, Myanmar is also home to many minority ethnic groups and nationalities which have their own distinct cultures and languages. In addition to the native ethnic minorities, Myanmar is also home to ethnic Chinese and Indians whose ancestors migrated to Myanmar during the colonial period, most visible in the cities of Yangon and Mandalay. Myanmar is divided into fourteen administrative divisions, seven regions and seven states; generally speaking, the regions are Bamar-dominated, while the states are dominated by the respective ethnic minorities. The government has been condemned by other nations for violence against the Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, which borders Bangladesh. The government does not recognise them as citizens of Myanmar, but instead claims they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, a narrative embraced by the vast majority of Burmese despite the Rohingya's presence in Rakhine going back generations. Forced to flee to Bangladesh in large numbers, where they are also regarded as foreigners, many have lost their lives trying to seek refuge and work in Malaysia. Generally speaking, most Myanmar people are incredibly friendly and polite, and will do their best to make you feel welcome in their country. ===Politics=== Myanmar, officially the '''Republic of the Union of Myanmar''' (ပြည်ထောင်​စု သမ္မတ မြန်မာ​နိုင်​ငံတော်), is a presidential republic, with the president, who is appointed by the legislature, serving as both head of state and ''de jure'' head of government. He and his cabinet form the executive branch. The legislature is composed of the bicameral ''Pyidaungsu Hluttaw'' (Assembly of the Union), consisting of an upper ''Amyotha Hluttaw'' (House of Nationalities), and a lower ''Pyithu Hluttaw'' (House of Representatives). While a majority of the members of the legislature are popularly elected by the people, a quarter the seats are reserved for appointees from the military. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won a majority of seats in the 2015 election. As she is constitutionally barred from the presidency (by virtue of having married a foreigner), she instead served as the ''de facto'' head of government in the role of State Counsellor. As of February 2021, Myanmar is ruled by a military dictatorship. === Climate === Myanmar is considered to have 3 seasons. The hot season is usually from Mar–Apr. Temperatures then cool off during the rainy season from May–Oct. The peak tourism season is the cool season from Nov–Feb. Temperatures can climb as high as 36°C in Yangon in the hot season while in the cool season, noontime temperatures are usually a more bearable 32°C, with night temperatures falling to around 19°C. Mandalay is slightly cooler in the cool season, with temperatures falling as low as 13°C, while temperatures in the hot season can go as high as 37°C. Generally, Lower Myanmar, the area around Yangon, receives more rainfall than the drier Upper Myanmar (around Mandalay). In the highlands such as [[Inle Lake]] and [[Pyin U Lwin]], winter temperatures can fall below 10°C at night, while daytime temperatures tend to be very pleasant. Even in the summer, temperatures rarely climb above 32°C. Near the Indian border in [[Kachin State]], there are permanently snow-capped mountains. === Read === [[File:Haridaung-Mrauk U-Aussicht-06-Pagoden im Dunst-gje.jpg|thumb|View of Mrauk U]] * ''From the Land of the Green Ghosts'' by Pascal Khoo Thwe. A Cambridge-educated writer gives a touching account of his growing up as a Paduang-Hilltribe-Guyand in the difficult political environment before becoming a rebel. ({{ISBN|0007116829}}) * ''The Glass Palace'' by Amitav Ghosh. A novel that spans a century, from British conquest to the modern day. A compelling account of how a family adapted to the changing times; provides much insight into Burmese culture. * ''The River of Lost Footsteps'' by Thant Myint-U. Easily the most accessible history of Myanmar available. Read it before you go and you will marvel at how the once great and rich cities (like Martaban, Syriam, and [[Mrauk U|Mrauk-U]]) have become the dingy and smoky villages of today. ({{ISBN|0374163421}}) * ''The Trouser People'' by Andrew Marshall. The author follows in the footsteps of Victorian explorer, Sir George Scott. This book looks at lost British heritage as well as the Burmese tragedies occurring in the present. ({{ISBN|0140294457}}) * ''Finding George Orwell in Burma'' by Emma Larkin. The pseudonymous author, a journalist, posed as a tourist to travel around Myanmar in the early 2000s, before the government opened up the country to the world. She documents a country trapped in the past, attempts to distinguish sympathetic storytellers from police informants, and retraces Orwell's life in Myanmar, who went on to give the world the vocabulary to criticise the repressive police state which the country had since become. ({{ISBN|1594200521}}) * ''Burma Chronicles'' by Guy Delisle. A whimsical and humorous graphic novel about a family who moves to Yangon on assignment with an NGO in the mid-2000s. The protagonist, a stay-at-home dad, adapts to life in Burma with his infant son while his wife works long hours. An enjoyable and light read, this work does not dwell on human rights under the dictatorship, but rather focusses on the day-to-day life of the protagonist and the characters he meets. ({{ISBN|9781897299500}}) === Listen === * [https://insightmyanmar.org/ ''Insight Myanmar''] used to be a podcast about religion and spirituality, but it pivoted to providing news and interviews with experts following the military coup of February 2021. * ''[https://www.myanmarmusings.com/ Myanmar Musings]'' is the podcast of the [https://myanmar.anu.edu.au/ Myanmar Research Centre] at the Australian National University, Canberra. While much more academic than ''Insight Myanmar'', it still features interviews with a variety of experts on a range of historical and present-day topics relating to research on Myanmar. * [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-happening-in-myanmar/id1777519120 ''What's Happening in Myanmar''] is a news podcast that is useful for keeping up with the ever-changing political and military situation on the ground in Myanmar. === Holidays === * 4 January: Independence Day * January: Kayin New Year Day - 1st waxing of Pyatho * 12 February: Union Day * March: Full Moon Day of Tabaung * 27 March: Armed Forces Day * April: Thingyan (Burmese New Year) — the most important festival in Myanmar, in which people splash water at each other. Also known as the Water Festival, and similar to Songkran in neighbouring Thailand * May: Full Moon Day of Kason * July: Full Moon Day of Waso * October: Full Moon Day of Thadingyut * 19 July: Martyrs Day * November: National Day - 10 st waning of the moon of Tazaungmon * 25 December: Christmas Day === Units of measure === {{See also|Metric and Imperial equivalents}} Since 2013, Myanmar has begun adopting the '''metric system''' (SI), which is now used for weather reports, petrol prices, and speed limits, and ''new'' road signs. However, much usage of '''imperial system''' and the traditional '''Burmese units of measurement''' persist. Old road signs may use miles and miles per hour, and government websites inconsistently convert Burmese units to metric or Imperial. ===Tourist information === * [https://tourism.gov.mm/ Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website == Talk == {{see also|Burmese phrasebook}} [[File:Vendeurs de plantes médicinales vers Kyaiktiyo Paya.jpg|thumb|Burmese signs at a market]] The official language of Myanmar is '''[[Burmese phrasebook|Burmese]]''' (မြန်မာစကား ''mien ma za ga'') (known by the government as Myanmar), a Sino-Tibetan language related to Chinese and hence tonal (word pitch matters) and analytic (most words are one syllable long). It is written using the Burmese script, based on the ancient Pali script. Bilingual signs (English and Burmese) are available in most tourist spots. Numbers often are also written in Burmese script. Much vocabulary is derived from another ancient languages of Pali (at the time of Buddha) and [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]]. There are also many other ethnic groups in Myanmar such as the Mon, Shan, Pa-O, Rohingya and many others who continue to speak their own languages. While Burmese serves as the lingua franca in government-controlled areas, it may not be spoken at all in some separatist-controlled areas. There is also a sizeable ethnic Chinese community who speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] and/or various Chinese dialects. In Yangon, most of the Chinese are descendants from migrants from Fujian and Guangdong, and hence speak mainly [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]] or Taishanese, while in Mandalay, the Chinese are mostly descendants of migrants from Yunnan, and mainly speak the Yunnan dialect of Mandarin. Some areas are also home to various ethnic Indian communities who continue to speak various Indian languages. Myanmar is a former British colony and many Burmese understand at least some rudimentary English. Most well-educated upper class Burmese speak English fluently, while any educated Burmese will know at least the basics. Hotel and airline staff, as well as people working in the tourism industry generally speak a good level of English. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Myanmar.png|450px|thumbnail|right|Visa policy of Myanmar {{legend|#ED1C24|Myanmar}} {{legend|#22B14C|Visa free & eVisa}} {{legend|#FF7F27|eVisa (Business & Tourism)}} {{legend|#FFB583|eVisa (Business)}} {{legend|#FFC90D|eVisa (Tourism)}} {{legend|#ABABAB|Visa required in advance}}]] The visa situation in Myanmar is changing quickly and this has caused confusion even among immigration staff, and many guides and official websites are out of date. Check Wikipedia for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Myanmar visa policy]. ====Visa-free==== Citizens of the following countries may visit Myanmar without a visa for tourism provided they enter '''by air''', and their stay does not exceed the following number of days: *14 days: [[Brunei]], [[Cambodia]], [[Laos]], [[Philippines]], [[Thailand]] *30 days: [[Russia]], [[Vietnam]] Citizens of [[Singapore]] may visit Myanmar without a visa for up to 30 days regardless of mode of entry. These visa exemptions are strictly not extendable. All other travelers are required to apply for a visa in advance. ====E-Visa==== [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ E-Visa] are available for visitors from many countries, including most Western countries for US$50/tourist and US$70/business travelers (as of Jan 2020) through the [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ Myanmar Immigration's web-site], which take 3 days to process. However, there is also an express tourist e-Visa service available on the governments website for US$56 (rather than the standard US$50) taking 24 hr (though sometimes just a few hours). Check the e-Visa website for details on which nationalities this is available for. The visa is valid for 28 day for stays beginning up to 90 days from the date of issue, and is single entry only. In order to apply, you will need to upload a passport-sized colour photo, and payment which is only accepted by credit card. Permitted entry points are: Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, Nay Pyi Taw International Airport, and the longtail boat crossing from Ranong, Thailand at [[Kawthaung]] Tourist visas are valid for 3 months. The visa is valid for a stay of up to four weeks (from date of entry), although you can overstay if you are willing to pay a US$3 a day fee upon departure. Employment is ''not'' allowed on a tourist visa, and working runs you the risk of being arrested and deported. Successful applicants will also be issued an "Arrival Form", which will be stapled into your passport and must be presented on arrival in Myanmar, along with your passport containing the visa sticker. ====Visa on arrival==== As of October 2019, [http://www.mip.gov.mm/on-arrival-visa/ visas on arrival] are available for tourist and business visitors of some nationalities at Yangon, Mandalay and Naypyidaw airports. You must bring two passport-sized colour photos, and a letter of invitation from the company sponsoring your visa (for business visas). There is still some confusion at airports about this because official resources are not being updated to match changes but most tourists are not experiencing difficult- if you experience any insist you are eligible for a visa and ask for a senior staff member. Note: In August 2022 a directive from Myanmar to airline staff immediately (and inexplicably) suspended the Tourist Visa on Arrival for all nationalities. This has not been updated on government websites. Check well in advance at the check-in counter what the status is, and consider playing it safe with an e-visa. ====Visa at an embassy or consulate==== You can apply for all kinds of visas in a Myanmar embassy or consulate in many capitals and large cities around the world. See specific details like contacts, hours, etc. there&mdash;especially for [[Bangkok#Embassies|Bangkok]] and [[Chiang Mai#Consulates|Chiang Mai]] in Thailand, [[Delhi#Cope|Delhi]] in India, [[Hong Kong#Consulates|Hong Kong]] in China, and [[Washington, D.C.#Embassies|Washington D.C.]] in the US. Generally the visa application requires a completed visa form (available from the Myanmar embassy), a completed arrival form (again, from the embassy), a photocopy of the photo page from your passport, two passport-sized photos, proof of your occupation, and the applicable fee. === By plane === Myanmar's main international airport is located at '''[[Yangon]]''', the largest city and main economic centre. There are regular scheduled flights from Yangon to many major Asian cities. For travellers from outside the region, the easiest way to get into Myanmar will be to catch a flight from either [[Singapore]] or [[Bangkok]], both of which have large overseas Burmese populations, and are served by several daily flights into Yangon. Myanmar also has a second international airport at '''[[Mandalay]]''', which is served by several flights to the neighbouring countries. For a current list of airlines and destinations, see [https://www.yangonairport.aero/index.php/en/ Airport of Yangon]. The two main international airlines based out of Yangon are flag carrier '''[http://flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airines]''' and privately owned '''[http://www.maiair.com/ Myanmar Airways International]'''. ===By land=== Myanmar borders five countries: China, India, Bangladesh, Thailand and Laos. Foreigners are free to travel overland from Thailand into the Burmese heartland provided their Burmese visa is in order. Entering Myanmar from the other land border crossings, though, is a different story. At the very least, you must apply for special permits in advance, and you may need to join a guided tour in order for the permit to be granted. ====Thailand==== Four border crossings exist between Myanmar and [[Thailand]] at [[Tachileik]]/[[Mae Sai]], [[Myawaddy]]/[[Mae Sot]], [[Htee Kee]]/[[Ban Phunamron]] and the [[Three Pagoda Pass]]. The former three are open to foreigners, and there are no restrictions on foreigners travelling into the Burmese heartland from Myawaddy or Htee Kee. From Tachileik, travel beyond Keng Tung is not possible overland unless you are on a guided tour with a special permit. No visa-on-arrival is available though, so ensure that your Thai (if required) and Burmese visas are in order. ====China==== Foreigners can enter Myanmar at [[Muse (Myanmar)|Muse]] via [[Ruili]] (in [[Yunnan]]), although a permit (as well as a visa) and a guide are needed. You will most likely need to join an organized tour. Crossing in the opposite direction is more difficult to arrange and details are uncertain; however, it's possible to fly from [[Mandalay]] to [[Kunming]], and there's even a Chinese consulate that issues visas in Mandalay. ====India==== A land border crossing exists between [[India]] and Myanmar at Moreh/[[Tamu]] and is open to tourists who have vehicles and who are on foot or who have tours. As of 2023, Myanmar eVisas are ''not'' valid for entry at this border, so you'll need to get a visa in advance. This border is in politically unstable territory and there have been protests and two bomb blasts in the Indian town of Moreh (Oct 2019) which briefly closed the border. Tourists are generally advised not to loiter in Moreh, especially late at night- and to stay in Tamu on the Myanmar side if possible. It is no longer required to have a permit to visit the Indian state of [[Manipur]] which borders Myanmar. ====Laos==== The Myanmar-Laos Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River is the sole official border crossing between Myanmar and Laos. The bridge connects [[Shan State]] in Myanmar with [[Luang Namtha|Luang Namtha Province]] in [[Laos]], in a ''very'' remote region for both countries, and information on when (or whether) the crossing is operating is hard to find. As eVisas are not accepted for entry at this crossing, you'll need to get a visa in advance. ====Bangladesh==== It is not feasible to cross the border between Myanmar and [[Bangladesh]] independently. No border crossings exist between the two nations, and the Myanmar army has planted [[landmines]] along the frontier to discourage smugglers. ===By boat=== Small wooden longtail boats shuttle between [[Ranong]], [[Thailand]] and [[Kawthaung]], Myanmar. There is no fixed schedule; you just negotiate directly with one of the boat operators, and they will leave once a price is agreed on. Be sure to bargain hard or you might get ripped off. Boat operators may try you hustle you onto their boat before you find the immigration building to get stamped out; be firm and insist on going through immigration, or you will be considered to have left the country illegally. You will need to pay a US$10 or 500 Thai baht "stamping fee" to Myanmar immigration when entering or leaving via this checkpoint. If choosing to pay by U.S. dollars, be sure your bills are in pristine condition; even slight creases will cause your bills to be rejected. == Get around == Myanmar's infrastructure is in poor shape. Travel to certain regions is prohibited; for others, special permits must be obtained, and a guide/interpreter/minder may be mandatory - although whether these "guides" accompany you to look after you, or to keep you from going to places the government doesn't want you to see, is a question best discussed elsewhere. However, travel between the main tourist sites, namely Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon, is fairly straightforward. ===Restricted areas=== Much of Myanmar is closed to foreign travellers, and many land routes to far-flung areas are also closed (for example, to [[Mrauk U]], [[Kalewa]], [[Putao]], [[Kengtung]]). Due to longstanding ethnic conflicts, many ethnic minority areas are controlled by armed separatist groups and remain outside the control of the central government. Thus, while tourists can travel freely in the Bamar-majority Burmese heartland, travel tends to be restricted or circumscribed in ethnic minority areas. In theory, any tourist can apply for a permit to visit any restricted area or to travel on any restricted land route. In practice, it is unlikely that any such permit will be issued in a reasonable amount of time, or at all. Permit requests can be made locally in some cases (for example, requests for the land route to [[Kalewa]] can be made in [[Shwebo]]) but, in most cases, the request has to be made in [[Yangon]]. Requests to visit restricted areas must be made at the [http://myanmartravelsandtours.com/ MTT (Myanmar Travel and Tours)] office in Yangon (Number 77–91, Sule Pagoda Rd, Yangon). Applications for local permits can often be made at a local MTT office or at a police station. Local permits are available only for the following places & routes: *[[File:Pa-O women at restaurant stall, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Pa-O women at a restaurant stall]][[Kengtung]] - [[Tachilek]]. This used to be straightforward but the availability is now uncertain. *[[Mrauk U]] Chin/Zomi village tours. Easily available in Mrauk U, but must visit with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Myitkyina]] - [[Indawgyi Lake]]. Easily available in Myitkyina but must travel with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Shwebo]] - [[Kalewa]]. A permit is necessary if going by road. It is uncertain whether one is required if going by boat. *[[Pa-O Self-Administered Zone]] in [[Shan State]] (including the Kakku Pagodas). Available in [[Taunggyi]], but must be accompanied by a local Pa-O guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this. All other permits must be obtained in Yangon. Permits for some places, such as Putao, are obtainable but need to be applied for well in advance Myanmar is not [[North Korea]], and you are free to walk around, go to shops and interact with the locals. However, with many of the more far flung places, and places restricted to foreigners, it is better to arrange your internal visa in advance. Companies that can help with internal visas: *[http://www.mrmyanmartravel.com Mr Myanmar Travel] *[http://www.remoteasia.com Remote Asia Travel] *[http://www.travelmyanmar.com Travel Myanmar] ===By plane=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Sample fares between important destinations (through local tourist agency)''' ! From !! To !! Approximate fare |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || US$95 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || US$85 |- | [[Bagan]] || [[Heho]] || US$65 |- | [[Heho]] || [[Yangon]] || US$85 |} The poor state of Myanmar's roads and railways make flying by far the least uncomfortable option when travelling long distances. Flag carrier '''[https://www.flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airlines]''' operates a network of domestic flights to many destinations across Myanmar from its hub in Yangon International Airport. Long known for its poor safety record, it has improved dramatically with the purchase of newer aircraft, and these days compares favourably with many of the private airlines in terms of both service and safety. There are also several private airlines operating domestic flights from Yangon. The private airline companies are usually on time, and even depart early (10-20 min), so be on time and reconfirm your flight and flight time 1–2 days before departure. Sometimes the itinerary might be altered some days before departure (meaning that you will still fly to your final destination on the scheduled time, but with an added or removed in between stop, e.g., Yangon-Bagan becomes Yangon-Mandalay-Bagan). This usually only affects your arrival time. En route stops have only 10-20 min ground time, and if it is not your final destination, you can stay inside the plane during the stop. All domestic flight from Yangon depart from Terminal 3, while international flights depart from Terminals 1 & 2. When taking a taxi from downtown to the airport, mention to the driver that you are on a domestic flight so you'll not end up in the wrong terminal. ===By train=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Train travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Ordinary || Upper || Sleeper |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 16 hr || 4,600&nbsp;kyat || 9,300&nbsp;kyat || 13,000&nbsp;kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 6 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,500&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 4 hr || 550&nbsp;kyat || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 7 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,750&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Lashio]] || 16 hr || 1,900&nbsp;kyat || 4,400&nbsp;kyat || None |} Myanmar has an extensive rail network, a relic of British rule. Unfortunately, there has been little maintenance or growth since the British left. Trains are slow, noisy, uncomfortable, and prone to delays. Electrical blackouts are becoming rare but nonetheless never assume that air conditioners, fans or the electrical supply itself will be working throughout the whole journey. Most trains have upper class and ordinary class. Ordinary class has wide open windows, benches and can be packed with locals transporting their goods. Upper class has upholstered chairs, fans and is less crowded. Be careful putting your head out of the window as it is likely to be hit by a branch. Vegetation grows so close to the tracks that you can reach out and touch it. Tickets are cheap and tourists pay the same price as locals, but tourists cannot buy tickets on the train. At smaller stations, you may have to seek the stationmaster or use an interpreter to buy a ticket. Your passport is required when purchasing. [[File:Gokteik Viaduct, Southbound.jpg|thumb|The famous Gokteik Viaduct dates from 1899]] A journey on a train is a great way to see the country and meet people. The rail journey from [[Mandalay]], up hairpin bends to [[Pyin U Lwin]], and then across the mountains and the famous bridge at Gokteik, is one of the great railway journeys of the world. Trains in lower Mandalay, Yangon-Pathein and Yangon-Mawlymaing, are little communities of their own with hawkers selling everything imaginable. Sleepers are available on many overnight express trains, although in the high season you may want to reserve a few days in advance. Tickets go on sale three days in advance. At some stations there is a separate counter for advance bookings, or even a separate building (e.g., in Yangon). Food service is available on the express in both directions between Yangon and Mandalay. Except for the new bridge and rail line that connects [[Mawlamyine]] to points on the west side of the Salween River, the rail network is exactly the way it was in British times. The most-used line is the 325km line from Yangon to Mandalay with several trains a day. It is the only double line in Myanmar, and also the only one that is competitive in time with buses. The fastest trains take 15 hr for the 385km run, an effective rate of 25km/hour. A second line connects Yangon with Pyay, 9 hr for the 175&nbsp;km journey, with a branch heading off into the delta region town of Pathein. These tracks, the earliest constructed, are in poor shape. With the construction of the bridge across the Salween, it is now possible to go by train from Yangon to Mawlamyine, 8 hr for the 200km journey, and on to Ye and Dawei. From Mandalay, trains continue on to Myitkyina in Kachin State, 350km in 24 hr, and to Lashio. There are also rail connections between Yangon-Bagan and Mandalay-Bagan, but bus or ferry are better alternatives: the 175km from Mandalay to Bagan takes 10 hours. There is railway service between Yangon-Bagan. 16 hr, first class US$30, upper class US$40, sleeper US$50. (check new prices) Train tickets cannot be paid in dollars any more, and the government has abandoned the former dual-pricing structure that saw tourists pay inflated prices. === By boat === There is also a large river ferry network. Both are to a large extent run by the government, although there are now some private ferry services. The trip from Mandalay to Bagan takes the better part of a day, from Bagan to Yangon is several days. === By bus === {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ ''' Bus travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 11 hr || 10,400 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || 10 hr || 12,000 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 4 hr || 6,000 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 2 hr || 1,500 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 5.5 hr || 4,500 |} Buses of all types ply the roads of Myanmar. Luxury (relatively speaking) buses do the Mandalay-Yangon run while lesser vehicles can get travellers to other places. Fares are reasonable and in kyat and buses are faster than the trains. Many long-distance buses assign seats, so it is best to book seats at least a day in advance. Because the roads are bad, avoid the rear of the bus and try to sit as far up front as you can. Long-distance buses also have an extra jump seat that blocks the aisle and, because it is not well secured to the chassis, can be uncomfortable (which also means that there is no such thing as a side seat where taller people can stretch their legs). A window near the front of the bus is always the best option. Even budget travellers will find themselves buying more tickets via their hotel or an agency rather than going to the bus company to buy it directly. Their offices are often located far from any tourist place and the cost of going there and back will most likely exceed the commission your hotel will get for selling you the ticket. Shop around and compare prices before buying your ticket as some vendors include a free pick-up from your hotel. A bus ticket scam seems to be popular in Yangon. While many make a stopover in Bago, they are told at their guesthouse or at the bus station it's not possible to buy tickets there in the direction to Mandalay. In a country where everything might be possible when it comes to transport, some people fall for this. Actually, this is not the case and tracking back to Yangon for a bus ticket up north is not necessary at all. Bago has a bus terminal with several bus offices. Buying your ticket at Bago might be slightly cheaper (depending upon your bargaining skills) and gives you more freedom for the rest of your journey. The adjoining table summarises travel times and approximate fares between important tourist destinations in Myanmar. Most bus fares have gone up with the fuel price rises, so the fares listed are rough estimates. === By pick-up === Old pick-up trucks run everywhere in Myanmar, cheaply ferrying men, women, children, and monks from one place to another. The rear of the truck is converted into a canvas-covered sitting area with three benches, one on each side and one running along the centre of the truck (some smaller trucks have only two rows), and the running board is lowered and fixed into place providing room for six or more people to stand on (holding on to the truck frame). Pick-ups are ubiquitous in Myanmar and every town has a central point somewhere from where they depart to places both near and far. Tourists who go off the beaten track will find them indispensable because often the only alternative is an expensive taxi or private car. The basics of pickups are fairly straightforward, wait till it is reasonably full before heading out. On well-travelled routes (Mandalay-Pyin U Lwin, for example), they fill up quickly and the journey is quick. On less well-travelled routes ([[Bhamo]]-[[Katha]], for example), passengers arrive (early, usually around 06:00), mark their place, and then hang around drinking tea and chatting until the truck fills up. When the pick-up does get moving, it may linger or go out of its way in the hope of picking up more passengers. The inside of a pick-up can be hot and uncomfortable. Passengers, packed in like sardines, face away from the windows (which are tiny) and into the truck. Standing on the running board can be tiring and tough on the arms. The window side seat next to the driver is very comfortable and well-worth the little extra that you have to pay, so it is best to go early and reserve that seat. === By car === [[File:20160729 traffic in Mandalay 5761.jpg|thumb|Busy street in Mandalay]] You can hire a private car and driver at reasonable rates to tour independently. The licensed guides at Shwedagon Paya in Yangon can arrange to have a driver with a car meet you at your hotel. Another way is to arrange for a car through a travel agency, though it can be quite expensive. You can "test" the driver and the car by driving around the city for 10 or 15 minutes. If you are satisfied, a departure date and time and per diem rates (inclusive of petrol) can be negotiated. Some guides are willing to travel with you to serve as interpreters. Traffic drives on the '''right''' in Myanmar, but confusingly, Myanmar has a mixture of left- and right-hand-drive cars, with the majority of vehicles being right-hand-drive as a result of being second-hand imports from Japan or Thailand. Road travel to tourist destinations is generally safe, although some roads may be rough. Highways are often 2-lane, and cars often pass one another recklessly. That being said, driving habits are not quite as aggressive as say, [[Vietnam]]. Allow two days to drive from Yangon to Bagan in fair weather. Pyay is a good stopover point. Allow a day to drive from Bagan to Inle Lake. In cities, it is considered illegal to cross an amber light without stopping. Despite having crossed 3/4 of the way, you will be required to stop in the middle of the road and make your way back in reverse! Accidents and fatalities are common. Night-time road travel is not recommended, and medical facilities are limited in rural areas. At government hospitals, bribes may be required for services. Make sure needles are new or carry your own. HIV is a major problem in Myanmar. ===By taxi=== All taxis (and by extension all vehicles for transport of people and goods) have red/white licence plates, while private vehicles have a black/white licence plate. Tourist agency-owned cars have a blue/white licence plate. ===By ride-hailing=== The main ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/mm/en/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former South-east Asian operations, including that of Myanmar. Uber's short-lived venture into Myanmar occurred just one year prior to its takeover by Grab. In common with Grab's operations elsewhere in Southeast Asia, cash is not required as you can use the Grab app to pay with your card, though cash remains readily accepted. === By motorbike === In Yangon, riding motorcycles is illegal. Mandalay's streets, on the other hand, are filled with them. === By bicycle === In many places you can easily rent a bicycle for about 1,500 kyat per day to move around in your own pace. Around Inle Lake, cycling is a relaxing way to get to the next village or lake viewpoint. Mandalay is laid out on a grid which makes it very easy to navigate while cycling. Tourists used to pedal bicycles around the sights of Bagan, across difficult sandy paths under the hot sun, however electric bicycles are now the norm. At around ten times the price of a conventional bicycle, they are well worth the money. === On foot === Cars and pedestrians may not follow the established rules, and crossing the road can be difficult. Drivers will almost never yield to pedestrians, even on striped pedestrian crossings. ==See== [[File:InleRowing.jpg|300px|thumb|Leg rowing, Inle Lake]] Myanmar has not been a popular destination in Southeast Asia as visitors have been largely deterred by the country's volatile politics and restrictions placed on travel. But the political and travel situation has been improving notably since 2015. The country is a true, unspoiled treasure trove, and should capture the imagination of anyone interested in culture and history. Walking around [[Yangon]] brings you back to the time of 19th-century British colonial rule. Sparkling-clean parks and temples stand side by side decayed colonial-style buildings and deep potholes. Its cultural and religious attractions, like the '''Shwedagon Pagoda''', add to the city's feel of exoticism, as do the smiles of the locals. Every street corner brings something new—and a short ferry over the river even gives you a glimpse of rural life in the country. Cities of cultural and historical interest close to Yangon are [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] with its Buddhist sights, the delta town of [[Twante]] known for its pottery, and the pilgrimage site of [[Kyaiktiyo]] with its gold-gilded rock balancing precariously over a cliff. It's definitely worth it to further explore the Bamar heartland. Unfortunately some outer fringes of the country are off-limits to foreigners, but it's always worth checking the latest situation with people on the ground as things move so fast that the Internet rarely if ever has correct information. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703742020).jpg|thumb|Pyin U Lwin]] The former city of [[Bagan]] is a gem, and gives a glimpse of what life in the 11th and 12th centuries here must have been like. Marco Polo described it as the "gilded city alive with tinkling bells and the swishing sounds of monks' robes". It is the largest and densest concentration of Buddhist temples, pagodas, stupas and ruins in the world. [[Mrauk U]] is a sleepy village today but its crumbling pagodas and temples remind of the early modern period, when it was the capital city of an empire involved in extensive maritime trade with Portuguese, Dutch, French and Arab traders. Within a daytrip from [[Mandalay]] is [[Inwa]], another former capital where ruins remain to remind visitors of its former glory. Also don't miss [[Pyin U Lwin]], a former British hill station with somewhat cooler temperatures. The country has its fair share of '''natural attractions'''. [[Inle Lake]] is popular with backpackers, and it is one of the few places that is starting to feel like a tourist trap. Still, a trip to Myanmar is not complete without a boat trip on the lake. It has a unique vibe with tribes living in stilt houses and paddling their traditional wooden boats with one leg. The country's long southwestern coastline also has a few '''beaches''', such as [[Chaung Tha]] and [[Ngapali]]. If you visit outside of the traditional holiday season, you might just have a beautiful white sand beach for yourself. Myanmar is a country inhabited with dozens of ethnic groups, but sites from the major '''independent Burmese kingdoms''' dating from the 9th century can be seen in sections of the country. ==Do== [[File:Chinlone Burma.jpg|thumb|Burmese men playing chinlone]] Myanmar is an excellent country for '''trekking'''. [[Kalaw]] is a centre for trekking, and has miles and miles of trails through mountains and hill tribe villages. [[Kengtung]] is also known for its hiking paths to hill tribe villages, while [[Hsipaw]] has some great treks to waterfalls. '''Birdwatching''' can be done around [[Inle Lake]]. Myanmar's national sport is '''chinlone''', played with a small rattan ball. The objective of the game is to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible without using one's arms or hands, and to do it as beautifully as possible. Spectacular '''scuba diving''' and unspoiled beaches abound in the Mergui Archipelago in [[southeastern Myanmar]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Myanmar kyat (official rates) | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;kyat | date=January 2025 | USD=2,100 | EUR=2,150 | GBP=2,600 | CNY=285 | INR=25 | THB=605 | SGD=1,530 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mmk-burmese-kyat]}} {{infobox|Currency Games |Myanmar is still predominantly a cash economy. However, ATMs are widespread. In a misguided attempt to fight rampant black marketeering, the Myanmar government has a habit of ''declaring notes to be worthless'': this happened first in 1964. In 1985, the 20, 50, and 100 kyat notes were withdrawn again and replaced with new kyat notes in the unusual denominations of 25, 35, and 75, possibly chosen because of dictator general Ne Win's predilection for numerology; the 75-kyat note was introduced on his 75th birthday. In 1987, the government demonetized the 25, 35, and 75 kyat notes with no prior warning, rendering some 75% of the country's currency worthless. A new series of 15, 45, and 90-kyat notes was issued, incorporating Ne Win's favourite number 9. The resulting economic disturbances led to serious riots and eventually the 1989 coup by General Saw Maung. The post-coup notes come in more normal denominations from 1–1,000 kyat, and this time the old ones remain legal tender, so far.}} Myanmar's currency is the '''kyat''', pronounced "chat". Prices may be shown locally using the abbreviation of '''K''' (singular or plural) or '''Ks''' (plural) either before or after the amount and depending very much on who is doing the sign writing. The ISO abbreviation is '''MMK'''. Wikivoyage articles will use ''kyat'' to denote the currency. ''Pya'' are coins, and are rarely seen since their value has become increasingly insignificant with even the largest 50 pya coin worth less than US$0.001. Banknotes of Myanmar are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 kyats. You may also come across 20, 10, 5, and 1 ''kyat'' and 50 ''pya'' banknotes. They are valid but rarely found and best held onto as souvenirs. Older banknotes in strange denominations are sold to tourists and, while typically genuine, are rarely if ever valuable. The notes of 50 kyat, 100 kyat, 200 kyat, and 500 kyat are usually in a horrible condition, but are generally accepted when making small purchases. The 1,000 kyat notes are slightly better. 5,000 and 10,000 kyat notes always appear new after exchanging foreign currencies. When exchanging money, check that the banknotes you receive are in a generally good condition. If the exchange gives you kyat notes in horrible condition, you can ask them to exchange them for notes in better condition. Dispose of remaining kyat before leaving. Outside of Myanmar, kyat is almost worthless but do make nice souvenirs. Kyat cannot be legally exchanged abroad, though some money changers in places with large overseas Burmese populations such as [[Singapore]] will exchange anyway, but at terrible rates. Kyat can be exchanged on departure from Yangon Airport at decent rates. ====US dollars==== {{infobox|Is it safe?|So, you're travelling around carrying hundreds, if not thousands, of U.S. dollars stuffed into your pockets in a country where most people subsist on a few dollars a day. Everyone around you knows that if they could get their hands on the money in your pockets, they will be rich for life. What, you may ask, are the odds that someone will try to relieve you of your money? The answer: almost nil. There have been very few instances of a tourist being mugged and only the rare cases of pilfering. Myanmar is an extremely safe country for travellers. Some say it is because of the nature of the people. Others say it is because the punishment for robbing from a foreigner is draconian, whilst others say it is because of Buddhism, which prohibits people from taking what is not given.}} Foreigners are no longer required to pay in U.S. dollars for hotels, tourist attractions, rail and air tickets, ferry travel and for bus tickets. As of 2015, foreign currency instability and the weakening kyat means that many venues will state prices in U.S. dollars, even though it is illegal to do so. Expat restaurants still often quote in U.S. dollars despite actions from the Central Bank prohibiting excess dollar usage. It is illegal for a Myanmar citizen to accept (or hold) U.S. dollars without a licence, but this law is mostly ignored and U.S. dollars are generally accepted. Never insist, though, because it may be dangerous for the receiver. Bring very clean, unfolded U.S. dollars (or they will not be accepted by hotels, restaurants and money changers). Even small imperfections can be cause to reject a U.S. banknote. Keep all U.S. dollars in impeccable condition, and do not fold them. If you do end up with a few, try using them for purchases rather than exchange, or try to exchange them in a few different places. ====ATMs==== There are plenty of ATMs all across the country accepting international Visa and MasterCard. The bigger and more touristic the place the more ATMs it has. Smaller tourist destinations also have ATMs (Bagu, Hpa-An, etc.), but not so many. Make sure to carry a buffer outside of major tourist hotspots. If an ATM does not work, try the next one. Usual withdrawal limit is 300,000 kyat with a processing fee of 5,000 kyat. In case you run out of money, ask your taxi driver to drive you to the CB Bank ATM. '''Note''': Your bank may refuse to process ATM transactions with some/all banks in Myanmar, even if the ATM accepts Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank prior to entering the country. ====Credit cards==== Upmarket tourist places (hotels, agencies, restaurants) are accepting credit cards (and will surcharge accordingly). So you can even pay with mastercard in a store in the middle of Inle Lake for purchases value more than US$100. But nonetheless paper money is the only way to pay in most places. Beside the ATMs, there are places (e.g. hotels in Yangon) where cash can be obtained with a credit card (''cash advance''), but the rates are extremely uncompetitive (with premiums certainly no lower than around 7%, and with quotes of 30% and more frequently reported). Also, they may need to see your passport to process the transaction. For US citizens, it is also possible to receive funds from friends or relatives in an emergencies through the US Embassy. ====Money exchange==== The foreign currency of choice in Myanmar is the US dollar, though you can readily also exchange euros and Singapore dollars in Yangon and Mandalay, but perhaps not beyond. Other options are the Chinese Yuan and Thai Baht. The best rates are in Yangon and Mandalay. Major foreign currencies need to be in good condition—other currencies like rupees and baht are often accepted even if worn out. The military junta re-imposed currency controls in 2021, again leading to a yawning gap between the official rate (fixed at 2100 kyat/dollar) and the black market rate, which ranged from 3,400 to 5,600/dollar in 2024. Banks and money changers only sell kyat at the official rate. Exchanging on the '''black market is illegal''': sellers risking jail time and the junta periodically cracks down. Especially on holidays and Sundays, all your necessary money should be changed at the airport as banks in town are closed. Money changers offer significantly lower rates (5-10% lower) for changing US dollars and euros. The most hassle-free option is to change all your required money at the airport, depending on the rate to change it back. Look around different banks for the best exchange rate. Be sure to bring a mix of foreign denominations when visiting Myanmar because money changers will sometimes not give change and smaller notes (in good condition) are useful for some entry fees and transport. Even though, larger bills give the best exchange rates at banks. Ensure that foreign notes are: * Unmarked – No stamps, anti-counterfeit pen, ink or any other mark on them at all. Pencil can be removed with a good eraser, but any permanent marks will greatly decrease a note's value and ability to be exchanged. * Fresh, crisp and as close to brand new as possible – Moneychangers have been known to reject notes just for being creased and/or lightly worn. * Undamaged – No tears, missing bits and pieces, holes, repairs or anything of that sort. * Preferably of the new design, with the larger portrait, and the multiple-colour prints. Although, old-style US$1 are still commonly traded. * For US$100 bills, have no serial numbers starting "CB". This is because they are associated with a counterfeit "superbill" which was in circulation some time ago. '''Scams''': * There are a number of tricks and scams running around Myanmar trapping tourists who are carrying US dollars. Sometimes, guesthouses or traders will try and pass you damaged or nonexchangeable bills in change. Always inspect all notes when making a purchase and request that the vendor swap any notes you think you will have trouble using down the track—this is perfectly acceptable behaviour for both vendors and customers, so don't be shy. * Some money changers will also attempt sleight of hand tricks to either swap your good banknotes for damaged, or lower denomination notes. Other reports suggest that the kyats may be counted and then somehow, some disappear from the table during the transaction. For example, after going through an elaborate counting process for piles of ten 1,000 kyat notes, some money changers will pull some notes out as they count the piles of ten. * When changing money, be sure that, after any money is counted, it is not touched by anyone until the deal is sealed. Also do not allow your dollars or major foreign currencies to be removed from your sight until all is agreed; in fact, it is not even necessary to pull out your US dollars until your are paying for the kyats you received. It sounds extreme, but ending up in a country where you cannot access whatever savings you have, and having a good portion of your budget rendered useless (until you get to more relaxed changers in Bangkok) can really put a dampener on your plans. ====Travellers cheques==== Travellers cheques are '''not accepted''' in Myanmar. The only exception might be some especially shady money changer, but be prepared to pay an astronomical commission (30% is not uncommon). ===Shopping=== When visiting tourist attractions, you will likely be swarmed by local hawkers, many of them children, trying to sell you souvenirs. Be sure to [[Bargaining|bargain]] hard should you decide to buy from them. Owing to decades of repressive military rule, a great many service and travel-oriented companies have strong links to the military. These are vital ways for the military to earn money, particularly foreign currency. If you wish to avoid spending money at military-owned or military-associated businesses, download the [https://waywaynay.com/ Way Way Nay Boycott app]. ====Tipping==== Tipping is generally not practised by the Burmese themselves. However, given widespread poverty in the country, tips are certainly appreciated if you have been provided with exemplary service. Tips that are charged to a credit card almost never make it to the service staff, so if you wish to tip, make sure you hand it over in cash to the person who served you. ====Costs==== Despite being less developed, Myanmar is expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or Vietnam. This is particularly true of hotel prices in the main tourists areas, as demand far outstrips supply. Similarly, the lack of competition from budget airlines has also made domestic flights rather expensive. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703766279).jpg|thumb|Night market in Pyin U Lwin]] It's not possible to be comfortable on less than US$25/day (May 2013). Foreigners will likely be charged fees, including video camera, camera, entrance, parking and zone fees. Most managed tourist site charge for carrying cameras of any sort into the area. Double rooms with private bathroom are nearly always more than US$20, in Yangon a double room without bathroom costs US$20. Dorm beds are around US$10 (or US$8 if you accept to lose a lot of value) (Sep 2015). While you cannot save on accommodation, you can save on food. Street food can get as low as US$0.30 for 2 small curries with 2 Indian breads, US$1 for a normal (vegetarian) dish. Even in touristy places like Bagan dishes cost under US$1 (vegetarian) and US$2 (meat). A draught Myanmar beer (5%) is around 600 kyat, a bottle of Myanmar beer (650 ml) is around 1,700 kyat, a bottle of Mandalay beer (6.5%, 650 ml) around 1,200 kyat. ====What to buy==== * '''Antiques''' – Purchasing antiquities and antiques in Myanmar is at best a legal grey area with the 2015 passage of the new Antiquities Law, and often illegal for any item over 100 years old. Penalties include prison and fines. It is recommended to avoid purchasing antiques as a tourist, unless you're willing to get an export permit from the Ministry of Culture on your way out and you have enough knowledge to avoid the fakes. Replicas and fakes are rife in Bogyoke market and other anitque stores frequented by tourists. It is against the law to export religious antiques (manuscripts, Buddhas, etc.) * '''Art''' – The Myanmar Art market has exploded, with local artists' works going for good values in Yangon and Mandalay. Visit the numerous galleries in Yangon to get a feel for available works. Art is often related to Buddhism and the difficult socio-political situation, as well as more traditional Victorian-influenced subjects like markets, old women smoking cigars, tribal members, and monks. There is a lot of cheap/mass-painted and derivative works at Bogyoke Market. * '''[[Gemstones]]''' – Myanmar is best known as for its [[jade]] and [[rubies]] (the granting of a license to the French over the ruby mines in [[Mogok]] was one of the causes leading to the Third Burmese War), and also produces some really fine [[sapphires]]. These can be obtained at a fraction of what it would cost in the West. There are a lot of fakes for sale amid the genuine stuff and, unless you know your gems, buy from an official government store or risk being cheated. Bogoyoke Aung San Market and the Myanmar Gems Museum in [[Yangon]] has many licensed shops and is generally a safe place for the purchase of these stones. The jade market in [[Mandalay]] is also worth a visit, where most of the jade is brought from the mines to be sold to merchants, and you can observe merchants haggling over the prices of both raw jade and various jade items in all stages of the production process. You can also purchase some jade trinkets yourself, but be prepared to haggle, and make sure you do your homework before buying or you risk getting ripped off. * '''Lacquerware''' – A popular purchase, which is made into bowls, cups, vases, tables and various items, and is available almost anywhere. The traditional centre of lacquerware production is [[Bagan]] in [[Central Myanmar]], and most tours include a stop at one of the local lacquerware factories where you can purchase one of these. Beware of fraudulent lacquer ware, though, which is poorly made, but looks authentic. As a guide, the stiffer the lacquer, the poorer the quality; the more you can bend and twist it, the finer the quality. * '''Tapestries''' – Known as ''kalaga'', or ''shwe chi doe''. There is a long tradition of weaving tapestries in Burma. These are decorated with gold and silver thread and sequins and usually depict tales from the Buddhist scriptures (the ''jatakas'') or other non-secular objects from Burmese Buddhism (mythical animals, the ''hintha'', and the ''kalong'' are also popular subjects). The tapestry tradition is dying out but many are made for tourists and are available in Mandalay and Yangon. Burmese tapestries don't last long, so be warned if someone tries to sell you an antique ''shwe chi doe''! * '''Textiles''' – Textiles in Myanmar are stunning. Each region and each ethnic group has its own style. Chin fabrics are particularly stunning. They are handwoven in intricate geometric patterns, often in deep reds and mossy greens and white. They can be quite pricey, perhaps US$20 for the cloth to make a longyi (sarong). ==Eat== [[File:Outdoor café, Yangon, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Outdoor café in Yangon]] Burmese food is influenced by that of India and China, yet unique. Apart from Burmese food, other ethnic traditional foods such as Shan food, Rakhine food, and Myeik food are also distinct. Rice is at the core of Burmese food, and good vegetarian food is widely available. Burmese food is often extremely pungent. Similar to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, '''fish sauce''' (ငံပြာရည် ''ngan bya yay'') is a very popular condiment in Myanmar, and is used to flavour many dishes. Food is inexpensive at most restaurants (priced at 500–3,000 kyat per item at most local restaurants, but can go as high as 8,000 kyat at posh restaurants). There are many up-market restaurants in Yangon and Mandalay. The majority of low-to-mid-priced restaurants use a cheap blend of palm oil for cooking. This oil may be unhealthy, and common roadside restaurants should be avoided if you are at the slightest risk for hypertension, heart disease, or other fat- or cholesterol-related conditions. Higher class restaurants may use peanut oil instead. Specific dishes include: [[File:Chapati and mutton curry.JPG|thumb|Chapati and mutton curry]] * '''Curry''' &ndash; Burmese people have a very different definition of curry than other countries. It is very spicy compared to Indian and Thai options, and although you may find it served at room temperature in cheaper restaurants, in a typical Burmese home all curry dishes are served hot. Burmese curry does not contain coconut milk, unlike its other SE Asian counterparts, and has a large quantity of onion or tomato depending on region and cook's preference. Myanmar is the highest per-capita consumer of onions in the world. Quite often Burmese curries are cooked with lots of oil, much more than other regional curries. * '''Samosa thoke''' (samosa salad) &ndash; A popular street dish of chickpeas, potatoes, tomato, cabbage, mint and a smashed samosa. * '''Mohinga''' (pronounced ''mo-HIN-ga'') &ndash; A dish of rice vermicelli with fish chowder, usually accompanied by coriander and chili powder. Its taste can range from sweet to spicy, and is usually eaten at breakfast. It is considered by many to be the national dish, and is widely available throughout the country, albeit in different styles in different regions. * '''Mote lin-mayar''' (Couples snacks) &ndash; Small tiny pancakes with chives, chickpeas or quail eggs. * '''Sticky rice''' &ndash; Served plain or with turmeric or black rice * '''Nan Gyi Thoke''' (pronounced ''nan gyi thou'') &ndash; A special dish of rice noodle salad with chicken sauce. It is mostly eaten in mid-Myanmar. * '''Onnokauswe''' (pronounced ''oun-NO-kao-sui'') &ndash; A dish of thicker noodles in a thick soup of coconut milk with chicken. It is served with a variety of condiments accompanying it, ranging from fried fruit fritters to solidified duck blood. "Khao soi"("noodle" in Shan), often found on the streets of Chiang Mai, is derived from this Burmese counterpart. It is also comparable to the spicier laksa often found in peninsular SE countries like Malaysia and Singapore. * '''Shan food''' &ndash; The Shan are an ethnic group who inhabit Shan State around Inle lake, near the Thai border. Their food is marvelous. It can be found in Yangon easily. :* '''Shan tofu''' &ndash; Made with mung beans instead of soya beans these yellow blocks are served fried or in a cold noodle salad. :* '''Laphet thote''' (pronounced ''la-peh THOU'') &ndash; A salad of fermented tea leaves and a variety of fried nuts. It is commonly mixed with sliced lettuce, and is eaten with rice. * '''Chinese food''' &ndash; Available in most cities and usually authentic, if plain. * '''Kachin food''' &ndash; Mainly available in Kachin State, though a number of Kachin restaurants can be found in Yangon and Mandalay. Kachin food is less oily and uses less MSG than Burmese food, and you may find it a good alternative if Burmese curries are not to your liking. == Drink == '''Tap water''' in Myanmar is not safe to drink, however factory-made ice in restaurants and other shops is OK. '''Bottled water''' is readily available. You can also safely drink from the many clay jars dotted around the country, or find safe drinking water in temples. Just look for the large steel tanks with cups tied to the spigots. Water in the clay jars is filtered and many Myanmar people use them. Owners of the jars fill them up with water as a way to make merit. Similar to Chinese tea, ''Yenwejan'' is usually provided free at restaurant tables. While not flavourful, it is boiled water, and so safe to drink (do not drink plain water - even in restaurants - unless it is bottled water). Dried tea leaves similar to Laphet thote's tea leaves (except these are wet) are added to the boiled water to give ''Yenwejan''. Be sure to order it with ''Laphet thote'' (customary/good combination). '''Milk tea''' (လက်ဖက်ရည် ''La-Phet-Yay'') is also popular in Myanmar and widely available in the local markets and teahouses but beware: the Burmese like their milk teas very, ''very'' sweet. '''Alcohol''' is frowned upon by conservative Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, but consumed widely, mostly among men. Myanmar Beer is most popular in the country. Other variants, including Mandalay Beer exist. However, many of such companies are government-owned and/or have links to the drug trade. '''Toddy juice''' (''ta-YEI'') is popular in central Myanmar, and is made from fermented palm sugar. An alcoholic drink popular in the Shan State is '''Shwe le maw''', and is reportedly very strong. It is also possible to buy full strength Beer Chang imported from Thailand; exports to most countries are not nearly as strong. Beware of alcoholic drinks served in the far northern states. The locals refer to it as '''alcohol which does not burn''' when lit, and it is widely suspected to be an opiate concoction rather than a fermented beverage. There are a lot of nightclubs, including those attached to the five star hotels (e.g. Grand Plaza), and also local entertainment centres (e.g. JJs, Asia plaza). === Teahouses === [[File:Myanmar Tea House Food.jpg|thumb|Tea and snacks at a tea house]] Teahouses are important places of social gathering and popular throughout the country. They look like restaurants but if you watch closely you will notice that people are drinking a lot of Chinese tea (free), light brown tea and are mainly snacking. Some teahouses also offer simple dishes as fried rice or noodles. Once seated they will expect you to order coffee but that's not what you should go for as it is almost always instant coffee. Order tea, a type of black tea with milk that differ in strength and sweetness: *''bone mahn'': balanced *''cho seh'': sweet *''kyaw p'daung'': sweeter *''pan brown'': bitter and sweet *''jah hseent'': light, with milk, not strong *''pancho'': strong *''bow hseent'': less strong *''noe hseent dee'': milk tea without sugar You will completely mispronounce the tea names (second and sixth are relatively easy) and people might not get what you want at all since it's rare for foreigners to order these teas. So it's better to ask your hotel or any local speaking English to write down the names in Burmese. Since you are a foreigner they will assume that you want your tea ''sheh'' - special - which means it will come with condensed milk. It's also possible to order a ''tankie'' and so the tea will come in a big pot. A simple cup of tea costs 200-400 kyat. Small snacks like samosas, cakes or sweet balls are readily available at the table. If not, ask. At the end you will only pay for the number of pieces eaten. Foodies should check out the type of snacks before deciding on a teahouse. It is not impolite at all to bring your own food, as long as you order at least ''something''. == Sleep == [[File:Sule-Pagoda by-Night.jpg|thumb|Night in Yangon]] Myanmar has good hotel accommodation, particularly in major cities and the main tourist areas, though prices are substantially higher than in [[Thailand]] or [[Vietnam]]. Rooms with attached bath are available for under US$10 everywhere except Yangon and with shared bath for anywhere from US$3–6 in most places. Almost every hotel licensed for foreigners has running hot water (though, in remote areas, availability may be restricted to certain hours of the day). Hotels, with a few exceptions, are usually clean. At the budget end, sheets and blankets may be threadbare and the rooms may be poorly ventilated. A few low-end hotels, particularly in Yangon and other large cities, specialize in cubicle rooms, small single rooms with no windows which, while cheap and clean, are not for the claustrophobic. Rates are quoted as single/double, but the rooms are usually the same whether one person or two stay in the room, making good hotels a real bargain if travelling as a couple. Except at the top-end, breakfast is always included in the price of the room. The tourism boom in Myanmar has left its infrastructure struggling to cope with the increased numbers of visitors. Hotel rooms tend to sell out really fast, and those in popular tourist destinations often sell out months in advance. As a result of the lack of supply, prices have also increased substantially. You should make your hotel bookings well in advance of your planned trip to Myanmar in order not to be stranded when you arrive. Wild camping is not legal in Myanmar. Myanmar has a problem providing enough electricity to its people and power supply is severely restricted everywhere. In many places, electricity may be available only for a few hours each evening or, in some cases, only every alternate evening. If you don't want to spend your nights without a fan or air conditioning, ask if the hotel has a generator (most mid-priced hotels do). On generator nights, the air conditioning in your room may not work (the price is usually lower as well). Even if a hotel has a generator, there is no guarantee that it will be used to provide you electricity at the times you require, so be ready for blackouts at any time of day or night. Major tourist hotels in Yangon and Mandalay have near-uninterrupted electricity supply, but can cost anywhere from US$80–300 per night. At the top-end, Myanmar has some excellent hotels including one or two great ones (The Strand in Yangon and Kandawgyi Palace Hotel in Yangon). The Myanmar government runs many hotels, including some beautiful colonial era ones (though not the two listed in the previous sentence). A percentage of all accommodation payments goes to the government, no matter where you choose to stay, and it is not possible to run a successful business in Myanmar without some relationship or payment arrangement with the military. == Work == {{overseasjobscam|Myanmar, particularly in the areas along the Thai border. In many cases, victims are lured to Thailand with a job offer, then trafficked across the border into Myanmar}} Work in Myanmar for foreigners is hard to come by. NGOs and other aid groups operate in the capital and remote rural areas but may require specific skill sets to hire you. Another option is European and Asian companies, mostly operating on a small scale. Teaching English is feasible in private schools but many foreigners have reported unreasonable contracts, such as withholding pay and refusing to pay those who resign early. The education ministry only hires citizens with teaching certification. If you would like to work and assist Burmese refugees, certain NGOs work in neighbouring [[Thailand]]. == Stay safe == === Crime === The government punishes crime, particularly against tourists, severely; as a result, as far as crime and personal safety go, Myanmar is extremely safe for tourists, and it is generally safe to walk on the streets alone at night. In fact, you are less likely to be a victim of crime in Myanmar than in [[Thailand]] or [[Malaysia]]. However, as with anywhere else, little crime does not mean no crime and it is still no excuse to ditch your common sense. As a foreigner, the most common crime you should be worried about is petty theft, so keep your belongings secured. Physical and verbal harassment towards foreigners is uncommon, even on urban walks near bars. Since 2005, [[Yangon]] and [[Mandalay]] have seen a barely perceptible rise in the very low level of street robberies. There were isolated bombings in 2005 in Mandalay and Yangon, and in 2006 in [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]. === Illegal substances === {{Warningbox|Drug offences are '''''severely punished''''' by the Burmese authorities. Convicted offenders can expect to face lengthy prison sentences. |us = https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Burma.html |canada = https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar }} ===Begging=== Despite traditional taboos against it, [[begging]] has become a major problem in the main tourist areas such as [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] and [[Bagan]]. Children and "mothers" carrying babies are often the ones who beg as they are more effective at soliciting pity. Most beggars are part of larger begging syndicates or just after easy money, as tourists are usually seen to be rich. In addition, the poor can always obtain food for free from the nearest monastery if they can't afford to pay for it, so begging is not necessary for their survival. If you choose to give, note that most Burmese earn only US$40 a month doing manual labour and so giving US$1 to a beggar is ''very'' generous. ===Fake monks=== Theravada Buddhism is the main religion in Myanmar, and it is customary for monks to go on alms rounds in the morning. Unfortunately, there are also many bogus monks who hang out around the main tourist attractions preying on unsuspecting visitors. Alms rounds are solely for the purpose of collecting food: genuine monks are forbidden from accepting, or even touching money. Monks are forbidden from eating after noon, and are also not allowed to sell items or use high pressure tactics to solicit donations. Authentic monks are often found in single file lines with their alms bowls. If you see a single monk requesting money from foreigners he is a fraud. === Corruption === Myanmar is one of the world's most corrupt countries. Officials and other civil servants may discreetly ask you for a bribe, or invent issues (missing forms, closed offices, etc.) in order to get you to suggest one. Pretending not to understand or asking to speak to a superior may work. However, white visitors are rarely targeted, while those of Asian descent (including South Asians and East Asians) may be forced to give bribes, but the brunt of the problem hits normal Burmese. Westerners are very rarely asked for bribes, although most bribes are a US dollar or less, and requested by people earning as little as US$30/month. === Driving conditions === [[File:Jampacked car in Kalaw (Myanmar 2013) (11773361556).jpg|thumb|One of many right-hand drive vehicles imported from Japan into Myanmar. These cause inherent visibility problems when driving on the right side of the road]] The poor road infrastructure, and a mixture of extremely ancient vehicles on the country's roads are all what best describe the road conditions. However, driving habits are not very aggressive compared to say, [[Vietnam]], which does make the safety of the roads comfortable for almost everyone. Although rare, youths sometimes compete against each other on the roads, which has led to some casualties over the past few years. Bus drivers are among the worst dangers, although this is somewhat less of an issue since 2010 due to new, very harsh penalties imposed on bus drivers involved in accidents. Surprisingly, Burma has a mixture of both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, with the majority being right-hand drive (used imports from Japan) but driving is generally done on the right side of the roads. Unless you have experience driving in countries with poorly disciplined drivers and very shabby vehicles, try to avoid driving in Myanmar; alternatively, arrange for a local driver to take you around. === Civil conflict === Various insurgent groups continue to operate in the '''Mon, and Chin (Zomi), states''' of Myanmar, along the Thai and Chinese borders. Travel to these regions generally requires a government permit. The government also sometimes restricts travel to '''Kayah State, Rakhine State, and Kachin State''' due to insurgent activity. However travel is entirely unrestricted to the districts of Yangon, Bago, Ayeyarwady, Sagaing, Taninthayi, Mandalay, and Magwe. Some areas that have been reported as closed have become open without notice, and areas previously regarded as open can become closed with no warning. In addition, local immigration offices may have their own interpretations of regulations. === Politics === [[File:Propaganda, Myanmar 2.jpg|thumb|"Tatmadaw [Armed Forces] and the people in eternal unity. Anyone attempting to divide them is our enemy."]] Myanmar is again under harsh military rule as it was from 1962 - 2012, with a reputation for repressing dissent, as in the case of the house arrest of democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi. There used to be more than 1,500 political prisoners (sentences of 65 years and hard labor in remote camps were given to leaders of the Saffron Revolution), although some have been released. When in Myanmar, abstain from political activities and don't insult the government. Discuss politics, if you must, with people who have had time to get a feel for you. The danger, however, is primarily posed to those you speak with, so let them lead the conversation. Also, realize that many phone lines are tapped. And if you absolutely must wave a democracy banner on the street, you'll simply find yourself on the next outbound flight. Between 2012–2020, liberty in general increased under the new government. A few politically critical articles have been published in government newspapers and a satirical film deriding the government's film censorship policy has been released, neither of which would have been possible even in 2010. Returning visitors to Myanmar may find that locals have become ever so slightly more open to discussions regarding politics. However, under any circumstances avoid doing things that might make the military or police feel uncomfortable, such as taking pictures of police and police buildings or vehicles. == Stay healthy == Hygiene in Myanmar may seem terrible to the average Westerner but it is possible to stay healthy with some basic precautions such as prophylactic medication, care choosing food and water, and antibacterial ointment. '''Never drink [[tap water]]'''. Restaurants are legally required to use ice made and sold by bottled water companies, so ordering ice is usually safe in major places. Always drink bottled water and check that the cap is sealed on, not simply screwed on. Diseases such as [[dengue fever]], [[Japanese encephalitis]] and [[malaria]] are endemic. Drug-resistant strains of malaria and tuberculosis are common in many areas. Hepatitis vaccinations are highly recommended and the cholera oral vaccine is worthwhile. At the dinner table, Burmese use a spoon and fork, or their fingers when this is more convenient. You might feel better rinsing all of them before meals. Antibacterial wipes or alcohol hand-rub is a good idea at regular intervals. As in many developing countries: "if you can't fry, roast, peel or boil it - then forget it". ===HIV=== The rate of HIV infection in Myanmar is high by Western and Asian standards (0.7% of the population in 2019). ===Healthcare=== Myanmar's healthcare system is poorly funded. If you should fall sick in Myanmar, you can visit the doctor in major cities for minor ailments. However, for more serious medical care, hospital conditions tend to be unsanitary and there is often a shortage of medical supplies. The only hospital that comes close to modern developed standards is Pun Hlaing Hospital, a privately owned hospital which is in a remote township of Yangon called Hlaing Thar Yar, and one should expect very high expenses there. Most of the hospitals are government owned, which means poorly funded. Most of the government officials and rich locals go to [[Thailand]] or [[Singapore]] for more serious medical treatment and hospitalisation, and you will be better off doing so too. Make sure you get travel insurance as arranging to be airlifted in an emergency is rather costly. The clinic formerly operated by the Australian Embassy in Yangon closed in 2018. There is a good [https://myanmarmix.com/en/directory/international-sos-clinic-yangon international medical clinic] at the Inya Lake Hotel in Yangon for consulting, testing, radiology and minor surgery. == Respect == {{infobox|Naming conventions|Unlike in many other cultures, there is generally no concept of a family name, patronymic or matronymic in Burmese culture, and most individuals only have a given name. For example, the 8th President, '''Htin Kyaw''', only has a given name with no family name, patronymic or matronymic, and would be addressed as Mr Htin Kyaw by most English speakers. Often, a Burmese honorific, usually '''U''' (ဦး) for men or '''Daw''' (ဒေါ်) for women, may be added to the beginning of the name, so he may be addressed as ''U Htin Kyaw''.}} [[File:Mrauk U - 0002.jpg|thumb|400px|[[Mrauk U]], the old capital of Rakhine in Myanmar]] Modest clothing is highly appreciated everywhere except nightclubs, and practically required in religious places such as pagodas, temples and monasteries (of which there are thousands). Miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed in consecrated areas, where you also have to remove your footwear, so loafers and flip-flops that you can slip on and off at the entrance are preferable. Myanmar has some of the most stunning temples in Asia and you will be tempted to visit more than you think. In Myanmar, you have to remove your footwear before entering the entire temple complex, including in outdoor areas. You might want to bring some wet wipes so you can clean your feet after visiting. Burmese people generally do not engage in public display of affection, even among married couples, and it is generally considered distasteful and should be avoided. Both men and women wear a ''longyi'', a sort of sarong sold everywhere, and it is not unusual to see Caucasian foreigners walking around in them. They are wrapped in different ways for men and women, so find out how to tie yours. If you turn up at a temple in inappropriate dress, you can always rent a longyi for a pittance. When giving and receiving '''business cards''', always use your right hand with the palm facing up, and your left hand supporting your right elbow. As the left hand is traditionally reserved for dirty things, handling business cards with it is considered to be very rude. Tourists of Caucasian descent are commonly referred to as ''bo'', which translates to "officer", a linguistic relic of colonization. Address elders with ''U'' (pronounced "oo", as in s'''oo'''n) or "Uncle" for men, and ''Daw'' or "Auntie" for women. Generally speaking, despite the common negative perception of the government, most ordinary Burmese people are incredibly friendly and polite as long as you respect their local customs. Customer service is in general very good (some say better than in [[Thailand]]) but customer service staff are invariably poorly paid, so you might wish to tip service staff generously to ensure your money goes into the right hands. ===Politics=== Avoid discussing relations with the Rohingya and the ongoing ethnic cleansing as this is a very sensitive and emotive issue that can potentially escalate into a confrontation. The vast majority of Burmese people regard the Rohingya as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh who have no right to be in Myanmar, and their Muslim religion is seen by many as a threat to Buddhism. Most Burmese people are offended when the Rohingya are referred to as such, and will insist that you use the term "Bengali" to refer to them instead. Tread carefully when discussing relations with [[China]]. Even though both the military junta and Aung San Suu Kyi had developed close ties with China and invited Chinese investment in Myanmar's infrastructure, this is strongly opposed by many pro-democracy activists. While the pro-democracy view on China have largely improved due to alleged Chinese support towards anti-junta ethnic armed organisations, China's policy has equally dissatisfied or even angered pro-junta groups. ===Religion=== {{see also|Buddhism#Respect}} Buddhism is the largest religion in the country, followed by roughly 80-90% of the population. Many Burmese people are religious and fundamentalist Buddhism has seen growing support in the 21st century. As in neighbouring Thailand, monks collect alms in the morning and adhere to strict rules such as abstaining from physical contact with women and not touching money. It is customary for Burmese men to spend time living as a monk at least once in their lifetime. Donations to monks should be spontaneous and given in the form of food only, not money; monetary donations should be placed in donation boxes in temples. If you see a monk with money in his alms bowl, he is fake. Monks are not allowed to eat after noon, so if you see a monk going on alms round after noon, he is fake. Buddhist monks are highly respected, and it is essential to show them respect. Always ask for permission before taking a photograph or touching a monk. It is also important to behave appropriately in their presence. If you are on public transportation, it is customary to give up your seat for them as a sign of respect. Showing any form of disrespect to Buddhism is taken '''very seriously''' in Myanmar and you can expect to be treated with '''no degree of leniency''' if you've been accused of disrespecting Buddhism. Disrespecting Buddhism encompasses things like wearing something with Buddha on it, having a tattoo of Buddha, depicting Buddha in an inappropriate way, and so on. Foreigners have been jailed for disrespecting Buddhism, so be careful about what you say and what you do. Do not speak negatively about religion; it is illegal, under Burmese law, to "insult" religion. What counts as "insulting" religion is very broadly defined and open to interpretation. Refrain from engaging in religious discussions with the Burmese. Swastikas are commonly seen in Buddhist temples and '''should not''' be conflated with anti-Semitism and Nazism. ==Connect== === Telephone === Country Code: +95 International Call Prefix: 00 Phone numbers in Myanmar have the format <code>+95 1 234-5678</code> where "95" is the country code for Myanmar, the next one, two, three or four digits are the area code and the remaining 6, 7 or 8 digits are the "local" part of the subscriber number. You can buy GSM/4G sim cards at International airports or any convenience store. Standard sim card costs around 1500 Ks. Some operators may offer special sim for tourists. There are 4 mobile operators in Myanmar, MPT (Government+KDDI), Telenor, Ooredoo and MyTel (Military+VietTel). MPT in the largest in Myanmar in terms of network coverage and user. Operators offer similar price plans. Generally, standard plan offers voice calls for 20 Ks - 25Ks/min, SMS at 15 Ks - 20 Ks/message. Pay as you go data plan offers around 7 Ks/MB but specific data plan will offer around 1000 Ks/GB or cheaper. Prices for IDD and roaming service vary depending on the operators and destination countries. If you are going to use in urban area only for local call and data, there is not much difference between operators. If you are going to visit remote area, please check which operator is available at there. If you are going to use IDD or roaming, you may wisely choose by checking offering price at their websites. === Mail === International mail out of Myanmar is reportedly quite efficient, despite what some hotels might tell you. As elsewhere, there is always a risk if you send valuables as ordinary parcels. Use EMS for fast, and relatively cheap international parcels. === Internet === Country's telecommunication sector was revolutionized in 2013 and speed is steadily increasing and price become cheaper. As of 2020, free Wi-fi is available at almost every Hotels. Unlike other countries, Myanmar hugely rely on 4G Internet than cable or Wi-fi. Surprisingly, Yangon has 4th-fastest 4G speeds in East Asia despite the fact that it had slowest speeds in Asia before 2013. Seamless 4G Internet is available in every city, town and along major highway roads. Even a small village is likely to be covered with at least 3G Internet unless it is in highly remote or armed conflict area. Data costs are around 1000 kyat ($0.8)/GB. There are also cheaper fancy data plans depending on operators. MPT is largest mobile operator and Telenor is second. 4G sim cards are available at International airports and any convenience store. With the extended coverage of 4G and smart phones, once dominant Internet cafes are getting out of business and turn into gaming stations. In case of you need to access Internet urgently, you can use at those gaming stations but extensive file downloading is not welcome for it can effect their gaming experience. Facebook and Viber are the most used apps and services in Myanmar. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|22|96|zoom=5}} qsx6vs5g5d8t7xusxw1orp4k36cxc6r 5091340 5091339 2025-07-11T10:42:43Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091340 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bagan (Myanmar) banner Sunset.jpg|caption=The temples of Bagan at dawn}} {{Warningbox| A nationwide state of emergency remains in force, with nighttime curfews enforced in many cities including Yangon. <!--- Mainland Chinese visitors should be extra careful due to hostility from protesters, and should avoid speaking Mandarin near protest venues.---> Avoid facilities and vehicles linked to security forces and military administration, monitor local media closely, and keep in regular contact with your embassy. Ethnic armed organisations are waging a large-scale offensive in [[Northern Myanmar|Northern]] and [[Eastern Myanmar]] from the Chinese-Myanmar border. Martial law is imposed in part of Shan State, and border crossings along the Chinese-Myanmar border are suspended. There are reports that the prices of many necessities is soaring. Many governments advise against all travel to Myanmar, though the main tourist circuit comprising of [[Yangon]], [[Mandalay]], [[Bagan]] and [[Inle Lake]] is far-removed from the violence and generally safe to visit — corroborated by the UK government's travel advice. A massive earthquake hit the area near Sagaing on 28th March 2025, and a state of emergency has been declared. The earthquake tremors could be felt as far as Hanoi, Vietnam. Many governments advise against all travel to Mandalay and nearby areas. |australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/myanmar |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/myanmar |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar |ie=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/myanmar-burma |sg=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/countries-regions/m/myanmar/travel-page |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/myanmar |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/burma-travel-advisory.html |lastedit=2025-03-31 }} '''Myanmar''' (မြန်မာ ''myanma''), or '''Burma''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]]. The country features awe-inspiring ancient temples, lively local markets, and captivating landscapes, such as unspoiled beaches, picturesque hills, and verdant forests. The genuine warmth of the Burmese people, combined with delectable cuisine, creates an ideal destination for gastronomes and culture aficionados alike. Since the 1960s, the country has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. For a considerable period, Myanmar has been afflicted with political instability, sectarian violence, corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and a prolonged history of colonial exploitation that paid scant attention to human development. == Regions == {{Regionlist | regionmap=Burma Regions Map.png | regionmapsize=425px | region1name=[[Southern Myanmar]] | region1items=''Ayeyarwady, Bago, Yangon'' | region1color=#CAA7C9 | region1description=The lowlands of the Irrawaddy Delta with the largest city and former capital Yangon. | region2name=[[Central Myanmar]] | region2items=''Magway, Mandalay, Naypyitaw'' | region2color=#E5B775 | region2description=Mandalay, historical and archaeological sites and cool hill towns. | region3name=[[Western Myanmar]] | region3items=''Rakhine, Chin'' | region3color=#A4C78A | region3description=Remote mountainous regions and some lovely beaches on the Bay of Bengal. | region4name=[[Northern Myanmar]] | region4items=''Sagaing, Kachin'' | region4color=#d17c82 | region4description=A huge, fractious region including the southern reaches of the Himalayas and many tribes. | region5name=[[Eastern Myanmar]] | region5items=''Shan, Kayah'' | region5color=#76AED2 | region5description=The infamous Golden Triangle and a bewildering number of ethnic groups. | region6name=[[Southeastern Myanmar]] | region6items=''Tanintharyi, Mon, Kayin'' | region6color=#DDE28E | region6description=The southern coastal stretch bordering Thailand with a vast number of offshore islands. }} == Cities == * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Naypyidaw]]|wikidata=Q37400}} (''formerly Pyinmana'') — newly designated capital of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]|wikidata=Q800122}} (''formerly Pegu'') — historic city near Yangon full of Buddhist sights * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kawthaung]]|wikidata=Q978611}} — beach town in the far south which is as much like Thailand as Myanmar gets * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mandalay]]|wikidata=Q185518}} — former capital of the Konbaung Dynasty built around the Mandalay Royal Palace and main commercial centre of Upper Myanmar * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mawlamyine]]|wikidata=Q685941}} (''Moulmein'') — capital of Mon State and the third largest city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pyin U Lwin]]|wikidata=Q1360318}} (''Maymyo'') — a cool town (in both temperature and attractions) which is a former British colonial hill station * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taunggyi]]|wikidata=Q1075566}} — capital of Shan State in the heart of the Golden Triangle * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Twante]]|wikidata=Q7857423}} — a delta town that is famous for pottery * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Yangon]]|wikidata=Q37995}} (''formerly Rangoon'') — the economic centre, known for its pagodas and colonial architecture == Other destinations == <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bagan]]|wikidata=Q29317}} — an archaeological zone with thousands of ancient pagodas near the banks of the Irrawaddy River, and a {{UNESCO}} * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Inle Lake]]|wikidata=Q1043461}} — a large shallow lake famous for boat trips, visiting floating villages inhabited by the Intha people, hiking, and also a source of excellent silk * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kengtung]]|wikidata=Q1027111}} — between [[Mong La]] (on the border with China) and [[Tachileik]] (on the border with Thailand) in the Golden Triangle, known for the ''Ann'' (black teeth people) and ''Akha'' tribes and trekking * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kyaiktiyo]]|wikidata=Q6450666}} — a gold-gilded rock sitting atop a cliff and a major pilgrimage site * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mount Popa]]|wikidata=Q1150764}} — an extinct volcano regarded as the Mount Olympus of Myanmar, a green oasis high above the hot plains and an easy day trip from Bagan * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mrauk U]]|wikidata=Q1951490}} — former capital of the Rakhine Kingdom, with many ancient pagodas that serve as a reminder of that era * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngapali]]|wikidata=Q19701446}} — beach resort in western [[Rakhine State]], on the Bay of Bengal * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngwe Saung]]|wikidata=Q7023181}} — longest stretch of beach in Ayeyarwaddy (English: Irrawaddy) Division, white sandy beach and crystal clear water are the features of Ngwe Saung Beach * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pyay]]|wikidata=Q691747}} — a town on the Irrawaddy River midway between Yangon and Bagan, known for its archaeological site ''Sri Kittara'', the ancient Pyu capital from 2 to 9 CE * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pathein]]|wikidata=Q870103}} — a river town in the Irrawaddy delta, known for manufacture of umbrellas, gateway to Chuang Tha and Ngwe Saung Beaches == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMyanmar.png}} === History === Like most of Southeast Asia's countries, Myanmar's people and history is a glorious mishmash of settlers and invaders from all fronts. The Mon and the Pyu are thought to have come from [[India]], while the now dominant Bamar (Burmese) migrated through [[Tibet]] and, by 849, had founded a powerful kingdom centred on [[Bagan]]. The ethnic diversity of the region, and the dominance of the Bamar people in the central plains, set up the geopolitical struggles between them and the multitude of smaller ethnic groups surrounding, which have continued unabated until the present day. From the 9th century to the 19th century, the Burmese empire grew through conquests of [[Thailand]] ([[Ayutthaya]]) and India ([[Manipur]]), and shrank under attacks from [[China]] and internal rebellions. [[File:Bago, Myanmar (Burma) - panoramio (44).jpg|thumb|Resting Buddha statue in Bago]] Eventually, [[United Kingdom|Britain]] conquered Burma over a period of 62 years (1824-1886) and incorporated it into its Indian Empire, and King Thibaw, the last Burmese monarch, was exiled to [[Ratnagiri]] in what is today [[India]]. Like in their other colonies, the British maintained control partly through a "divide and conquer" strategy, in which they deliberately stoked tensions between different ethnic and religious groups, resulting in ethnic and religious conflicts that have never been resolved. For example, bureaucrats were imported from India, and other government positions tended to be manned by locals from the smaller ethnic groups. Burma was administered as a province of India until 1937 when it became a separate colony. During the Second World War, Burma was a major battleground as the Allies fought the Japanese for dominance over Asia. The [[Burma Road]] was built to get supplies to China. The Thailand-Burma railway (the so-called "Death Railway") from [[Kanchanaburi]] in Thailand over the River Kwai to Burma was built by the Japanese using forced labour &mdash; Allied prisoners-of-war, indentured Thai labourers, Burmese people and other Southeast Asians. They had to work in appalling conditions and a great number of them died (estimated at 80,000) during construction of the railway. Large parts of Western Burma, particularly the hilly areas bordering India and the city of [[Mandalay]], were severely damaged during the war. Burmese independence fighters led by '''General Aung San''' cooperated with the Japanese to oust the British at first; the Japanese promised to grant independence to Burma in exchange. However, life under Japanese occupation was even more brutal than life under British colonialism, and many Burmese were killed, such as in the Kalagong massacre. Aung San subsequently switched allegiance and helped the allies win Burma back from the Japanese. Aung San subsequently led negotiations with the British for Burmese independence after the end of World War II, and the British agreed in 1947 to grant independence to Burma the following year, though Aung San himself was assassinated later in 1947 and never lived to see his dream come true. Independence from the British under the name '''Union of Burma''' was finally attained on 4 January 1948, and General Aung San is regarded by most Burmese people to be their father of independence. The new union brought together various states defined by ethnic identity, many of whom had centuries-long histories of autonomy from and struggles against each other. In the interest of securing their collective independence from Britain, the tribes reached an agreement to submit to collective governance—with power sharing among the ethnicities and states—for ten years, after which each tribe would be afforded the right to secede from the union. The terms of this "Pinlon Agreement" were enshrined in the 1947/1948 constitution of the new Union of Burma. The new central government of the nation quickly worked to consolidate its power, marginalising and angering tribal leaders and setting off ethnic armed conflict that has continued unabated until the present day. In 1961, more than 200 ethnic leaders from the Shan people, Kachin people, Red Karen, Karen people, Chin peoples, Mon people and Rakhine people met with ethnic Bamar (Burmese) central government authorities to draft a new form of government which would ensure the tribes both autonomy and self-determination within a federal system. [[File:Aung San Suu Kyi December 2011 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Aung San Suu Kyi]] The new government was never formed. Nevertheless, up until Ne Win's coup in 1962, Burma was regarded as one of the most developed and fastest growing economies in Asia, and widely touted as a contender to be the next Japan. Military leader General Ne Win led a coup d'état which ousted the democratically elected government in 1962, and installed himself as leader. General Ne Win dominated the government from 1962 to 1988, first as military ruler, then as self-appointed president, and later as political kingpin. Under Ne Win's rule, widespread corruption and nepotism led the Burmese economy into a downward spiral from which it has never fully recovered. Pro-democracy demonstrations in 1988 were violently crushed, with general Saw Maung taking over in a coup and installing the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) to rule the country, now renamed '''Myanmar'''. Multiparty legislative elections were held in 1990, with the main opposition party - the National League for Democracy (NLD) - winning a landslide victory (392 of 489 seats). But SLORC refused to hand over power, instead placing NLD leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi (daughter of national hero Aung San) under house arrest, which she has endured for 14 of the last 20 years. Today Myanmar, a resource-rich country, suffers from pervasive government controls, inefficient economic policies, and rural poverty. What was once one of the richest and most developed countries in Asia has since slumped into poverty due to widespread corruption. The junta took steps in the early 1990s to liberalise price controls after decades of failure under the "Burmese Way to Socialism," but had to reinstate subsidised prices on staples in the face of food riots, upon which the democracy movement grafted its agenda. The government called out troops and the rioters were defiant until the monks intervened: standing between both sides, they told everyone to go home and they did. The riots caused overseas development assistance to cease and the government subsequently nullified the results of the 1990 legislative elections. In response to the government's attack in May 2003 on Aung San Suu Kyi and her convoy, the [[USA]] imposed new economic sanctions against Myanmar, including bans on imports of products from Myanmar and on provision of financial services by US citizens. [[File:NLD Flag from car Yangon.png|thumb|A National League for Democracy supporter in Yangon]] The summer of 2007 was marked by demonstrations against the military government which were again brutally suppressed. The demonstrations started in August, apparently in an uncoordinated manner, as a protest against a stiff hike in the price of petrol, but morphed into a more serious challenge to the government after three monks were beaten at a protest march in the town of Pakokku. The monks demanded an apology but none was forthcoming and soon processions of monks with begging bowls held upside down filled many cities (including [[Sittwe]], [[Mandalay]] and [[Yangon]]). Yangon, particularly the area around Sule Pagoda in the downtown area, became the centre of these protests. While the monks marched, and many ordinary citizens came out in support of the monks, the world watched as pictures, videos, and blogs flooded the Internet. However, the government soon suppressed the protests by firing on crowds, arresting monks and closing monasteries, and temporarily shut down Internet communications with the rest of the world. This led the US, [[Australia]], [[Canada]] and the [[European Union]] to impose additional sanctions, some targeting the families and finances of the military leaders. [[File:Protesters against the military coup.jpg|thumb|Protesters demonstrating against the 2021 military coup]] Following elections in 2010, Burma began a process of liberalisation that has led to a reduction or removal of sanctions by many nations including the United States. In 2012, Aung San Suu Kyi was elected to the Burmese parliament and allowed to travel to Europe and North America. Censorship of foreign and local news was also suspended. In November 2015, Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won a landslide victory in the nationwide legislative elections and Htin Kyaw, a close ally of Aung San Suu Kyi, became president. In April 2016, Aung San Suu Kyi took office as State Counsellor, a post equivalent to prime minister, making her Myanmar's ''de facto'' head of government. In February 2021, the military once again took power in a coup d'état after a landslide victory by the NLD. Country-wide mass protests and a civil disobedience movement sprung up in the aftermath; protests were brutally crushed as the army killed hundreds of NLD supporters and democratic activists. Thousands of NLD and other pro-democracy politicians, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and community leaders were arrested. Peaceful protests still occur sporadically while other groups of protesters have taken up arms against the military regime, particularly in the border regions. Western countries have re-imposed economic sanctions on Myanmar as a result of the coup. As of mid-2024, the junta controls less than half of the area of the country, and Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) have been successfully mounting co-ordinated attacks with increasing confidence. However, this brutal civil war still has no end in sight. ===Culture=== Myanmar's culture is largely a result of Indian influences intertwined with local traditions and Chinese influences. This can be seen in the various stupas and temples throughout the country, which bear a distinct resemblance to those in northern India. As in neighbouring [[Thailand]], Theravada Buddhism is the single largest religion. 88% of the population follows these Buddhist practices, and even some of the most remote villages will have a temple for people to pray at. Other religions which exist in smaller numbers include Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Animism and ancestor worship can also be found around the country, especially in the more distant, hill tribe regions. One pre-Buddhist tradition that survives in Myanmar is the worship of the '''''Nats''''', or traditional Burmese spirits, and you will see many spirit houses throughout the country dedicated to their worship. Following the spread of Theravada Buddhism, the worship of the Nats was incorporated into Burmese Buddhism, and they are today regarded as subordinates of the Buddha. ===People=== [[File:Burmese people 01.jpg|thumb|Boys in Yangon with thanaka paste on their faces]] The dominant ethnic group in Myanmar is known as the Bamar, from which the original English name of the country, Burma, was derived. Besides the Bamar, Myanmar is also home to many minority ethnic groups and nationalities which have their own distinct cultures and languages. In addition to the native ethnic minorities, Myanmar is also home to ethnic Chinese and Indians whose ancestors migrated to Myanmar during the colonial period, most visible in the cities of Yangon and Mandalay. Myanmar is divided into fourteen administrative divisions, seven regions and seven states; generally speaking, the regions are Bamar-dominated, while the states are dominated by the respective ethnic minorities. The government has been condemned by other nations for violence against the Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, which borders Bangladesh. The government does not recognise them as citizens of Myanmar, but instead claims they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, a narrative embraced by the vast majority of Burmese despite the Rohingya's presence in Rakhine going back generations. Forced to flee to Bangladesh in large numbers, where they are also regarded as foreigners, many have lost their lives trying to seek refuge and work in Malaysia. Generally speaking, most Myanmar people are incredibly friendly and polite, and will do their best to make you feel welcome in their country. ===Politics=== Myanmar, officially the '''Republic of the Union of Myanmar''' (ပြည်ထောင်​စု သမ္မတ မြန်မာ​နိုင်​ငံတော်), is a presidential republic, with the president, who is appointed by the legislature, serving as both head of state and ''de jure'' head of government. He and his cabinet form the executive branch. The legislature is composed of the bicameral ''Pyidaungsu Hluttaw'' (Assembly of the Union), consisting of an upper ''Amyotha Hluttaw'' (House of Nationalities), and a lower ''Pyithu Hluttaw'' (House of Representatives). While a majority of the members of the legislature are popularly elected by the people, a quarter the seats are reserved for appointees from the military. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won a majority of seats in the 2015 election. As she is constitutionally barred from the presidency (by virtue of having married a foreigner), she instead served as the ''de facto'' head of government in the role of State Counsellor. As of February 2021, Myanmar is ruled by a military dictatorship. === Climate === Myanmar is considered to have 3 seasons. The hot season is usually from Mar–Apr. Temperatures then cool off during the rainy season from May–Oct. The peak tourism season is the cool season from Nov–Feb. Temperatures can climb as high as 36°C in Yangon in the hot season while in the cool season, noontime temperatures are usually a more bearable 32°C, with night temperatures falling to around 19°C. Mandalay is slightly cooler in the cool season, with temperatures falling as low as 13°C, while temperatures in the hot season can go as high as 37°C. Generally, Lower Myanmar, the area around Yangon, receives more rainfall than the drier Upper Myanmar (around Mandalay). In the highlands such as [[Inle Lake]] and [[Pyin U Lwin]], winter temperatures can fall below 10°C at night, while daytime temperatures tend to be very pleasant. Even in the summer, temperatures rarely climb above 32°C. Near the Indian border in [[Kachin State]], there are permanently snow-capped mountains. === Read === [[File:Haridaung-Mrauk U-Aussicht-06-Pagoden im Dunst-gje.jpg|thumb|View of Mrauk U]] * ''From the Land of the Green Ghosts'' by Pascal Khoo Thwe. A Cambridge-educated writer gives a touching account of his growing up as a Paduang-Hilltribe-Guyand in the difficult political environment before becoming a rebel. ({{ISBN|0007116829}}) * ''The Glass Palace'' by Amitav Ghosh. A novel that spans a century, from British conquest to the modern day. A compelling account of how a family adapted to the changing times; provides much insight into Burmese culture. * ''The River of Lost Footsteps'' by Thant Myint-U. Easily the most accessible history of Myanmar available. Read it before you go and you will marvel at how the once great and rich cities (like Martaban, Syriam, and [[Mrauk U|Mrauk-U]]) have become the dingy and smoky villages of today. ({{ISBN|0374163421}}) * ''The Trouser People'' by Andrew Marshall. The author follows in the footsteps of Victorian explorer, Sir George Scott. This book looks at lost British heritage as well as the Burmese tragedies occurring in the present. ({{ISBN|0140294457}}) * ''Finding George Orwell in Burma'' by Emma Larkin. The pseudonymous author, a journalist, posed as a tourist to travel around Myanmar in the early 2000s, before the government opened up the country to the world. She documents a country trapped in the past, attempts to distinguish sympathetic storytellers from police informants, and retraces Orwell's life in Myanmar, who went on to give the world the vocabulary to criticise the repressive police state which the country had since become. ({{ISBN|1594200521}}) * ''Burma Chronicles'' by Guy Delisle. A whimsical and humorous graphic novel about a family who moves to Yangon on assignment with an NGO in the mid-2000s. The protagonist, a stay-at-home dad, adapts to life in Burma with his infant son while his wife works long hours. An enjoyable and light read, this work does not dwell on human rights under the dictatorship, but rather focusses on the day-to-day life of the protagonist and the characters he meets. ({{ISBN|9781897299500}}) === Listen === * [https://insightmyanmar.org/ ''Insight Myanmar''] used to be a podcast about religion and spirituality, but it pivoted to providing news and interviews with experts following the military coup of February 2021. * ''[https://www.myanmarmusings.com/ Myanmar Musings]'' is the podcast of the [https://myanmar.anu.edu.au/ Myanmar Research Centre] at the Australian National University, Canberra. While much more academic than ''Insight Myanmar'', it still features interviews with a variety of experts on a range of historical and present-day topics relating to research on Myanmar. * [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-happening-in-myanmar/id1777519120 ''What's Happening in Myanmar''] is a news podcast that is useful for keeping up with the ever-changing political and military situation on the ground in Myanmar. === Holidays === * 4 January: Independence Day * January: Kayin New Year Day - 1st waxing of Pyatho * 12 February: Union Day * March: Full Moon Day of Tabaung * 27 March: Armed Forces Day * April: Thingyan (Burmese New Year) — the most important festival in Myanmar, in which people splash water at each other. Also known as the Water Festival, and similar to Songkran in neighbouring Thailand * May: Full Moon Day of Kason * July: Full Moon Day of Waso * October: Full Moon Day of Thadingyut * 19 July: Martyrs Day * November: National Day - 10 st waning of the moon of Tazaungmon * 25 December: Christmas Day === Units of measure === {{See also|Metric and Imperial equivalents}} Since 2013, Myanmar has begun adopting the '''metric system''' (SI), which is now used for weather reports, petrol prices, and speed limits, and ''new'' road signs. However, much usage of '''imperial system''' and the traditional '''Burmese units of measurement''' persist. Old road signs may use miles and miles per hour, and government websites inconsistently convert Burmese units to metric or Imperial. ===Tourist information === * [https://tourism.gov.mm/ Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website == Talk == {{see also|Burmese phrasebook}} [[File:Vendeurs de plantes médicinales vers Kyaiktiyo Paya.jpg|thumb|Burmese signs at a market]] The official language of Myanmar is '''[[Burmese phrasebook|Burmese]]''' (မြန်မာစကား ''mien ma za ga'') (known by the government as Myanmar), a Sino-Tibetan language related to Chinese and hence tonal (word pitch matters) and analytic (most words are one syllable long). It is written using the Burmese script, based on the ancient Pali script. Bilingual signs (English and Burmese) are available in most tourist spots. Numbers often are also written in Burmese script. Much vocabulary is derived from another ancient languages of Pali (at the time of Buddha) and [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]]. There are also many other ethnic groups in Myanmar such as the Mon, Shan, Pa-O, Rohingya and many others who continue to speak their own languages. While Burmese serves as the lingua franca in government-controlled areas, it may not be spoken at all in some separatist-controlled areas. There is also a sizeable ethnic Chinese community who speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] and/or various Chinese dialects. In Yangon, most of the Chinese are descendants from migrants from Fujian and Guangdong, and hence speak mainly [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]] or Taishanese, while in Mandalay, the Chinese are mostly descendants of migrants from Yunnan, and mainly speak the Yunnan dialect of Mandarin. Some areas are also home to various ethnic Indian communities who continue to speak various Indian languages. Myanmar is a former British colony and many Burmese understand at least some rudimentary English. Most well-educated upper class Burmese speak English fluently, while any educated Burmese will know at least the basics. Hotel and airline staff, as well as people working in the tourism industry generally speak a good level of English. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Myanmar.png|450px|thumbnail|right|Visa policy of Myanmar {{legend|#ED1C24|Myanmar}} {{legend|#22B14C|Visa free & eVisa}} {{legend|#FF7F27|eVisa (Business & Tourism)}} {{legend|#FFB583|eVisa (Business)}} {{legend|#FFC90D|eVisa (Tourism)}} {{legend|#ABABAB|Visa required in advance}}]] The visa situation in Myanmar is changing quickly and this has caused confusion even among immigration staff, and many guides and official websites are out of date. Check Wikipedia for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Myanmar visa policy]. ====Visa-free==== Citizens of the following countries may visit Myanmar without a visa for tourism provided they enter '''by air''', and their stay does not exceed the following number of days: *14 days: [[Brunei]], [[Cambodia]], [[Laos]], [[Philippines]], [[Thailand]] *30 days: [[Russia]], [[Vietnam]] Citizens of [[Singapore]] may visit Myanmar without a visa for up to 30 days regardless of mode of entry. These visa exemptions are strictly not extendable. All other travelers are required to apply for a visa in advance. ====E-Visa==== [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ E-Visa] are available for visitors from many countries, including most Western countries for US$50/tourist and US$70/business travelers (as of Jan 2020) through the [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ Myanmar Immigration's web-site], which take 3 days to process. However, there is also an express tourist e-Visa service available on the governments website for US$56 (rather than the standard US$50) taking 24 hr (though sometimes just a few hours). Check the e-Visa website for details on which nationalities this is available for. The visa is valid for 28 day for stays beginning up to 90 days from the date of issue, and is single entry only. In order to apply, you will need to upload a passport-sized colour photo, and payment which is only accepted by credit card. Permitted entry points are: Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, Nay Pyi Taw International Airport, and the longtail boat crossing from Ranong, Thailand at [[Kawthaung]] Tourist visas are valid for 3 months. The visa is valid for a stay of up to four weeks (from date of entry), although you can overstay if you are willing to pay a US$3 a day fee upon departure. Employment is ''not'' allowed on a tourist visa, and working runs you the risk of being arrested and deported. Successful applicants will also be issued an "Arrival Form", which will be stapled into your passport and must be presented on arrival in Myanmar, along with your passport containing the visa sticker. ====Visa on arrival==== As of October 2019, [http://www.mip.gov.mm/on-arrival-visa/ visas on arrival] are available for tourist and business visitors of some nationalities at Yangon, Mandalay and Naypyidaw airports. You must bring two passport-sized colour photos, and a letter of invitation from the company sponsoring your visa (for business visas). There is still some confusion at airports about this because official resources are not being updated to match changes but most tourists are not experiencing difficult- if you experience any insist you are eligible for a visa and ask for a senior staff member. Note: In August 2022 a directive from Myanmar to airline staff immediately (and inexplicably) suspended the Tourist Visa on Arrival for all nationalities. This has not been updated on government websites. Check well in advance at the check-in counter what the status is, and consider playing it safe with an e-visa. ====Visa at an embassy or consulate==== You can apply for all kinds of visas in a Myanmar embassy or consulate in many capitals and large cities around the world. See specific details like contacts, hours, etc. there&mdash;especially for [[Bangkok#Embassies|Bangkok]] and [[Chiang Mai#Consulates|Chiang Mai]] in Thailand, [[Delhi#Cope|Delhi]] in India, [[Hong Kong#Consulates|Hong Kong]] in China, and [[Washington, D.C.#Embassies|Washington D.C.]] in the US. Generally the visa application requires a completed visa form (available from the Myanmar embassy), a completed arrival form (again, from the embassy), a photocopy of the photo page from your passport, two passport-sized photos, proof of your occupation, and the applicable fee. === By plane === Myanmar's main international airport is located at '''[[Yangon]]''', the largest city and main economic centre. There are regular scheduled flights from Yangon to many major Asian cities. For travellers from outside the region, the easiest way to get into Myanmar will be to catch a flight from either [[Singapore]] or [[Bangkok]], both of which have large overseas Burmese populations, and are served by several daily flights into Yangon. Myanmar also has a second international airport at '''[[Mandalay]]''', which is served by several flights to the neighbouring countries. For a current list of airlines and destinations, see [https://www.yangonairport.aero/index.php/en/ Airport of Yangon]. The two main international airlines based out of Yangon are flag carrier '''[http://flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airines]''' and privately owned '''[http://www.maiair.com/ Myanmar Airways International]'''. ===By land=== Myanmar borders five countries: China, India, Bangladesh, Thailand and Laos. Foreigners are free to travel overland from Thailand into the Burmese heartland provided their Burmese visa is in order. Entering Myanmar from the other land border crossings, though, is a different story. At the very least, you must apply for special permits in advance, and you may need to join a guided tour in order for the permit to be granted. ====Thailand==== Four border crossings exist between Myanmar and [[Thailand]] at [[Tachileik]]/[[Mae Sai]], [[Myawaddy]]/[[Mae Sot]], [[Htee Kee]]/[[Ban Phunamron]] and the [[Three Pagoda Pass]]. The former three are open to foreigners, and there are no restrictions on foreigners travelling into the Burmese heartland from Myawaddy or Htee Kee. From Tachileik, travel beyond Keng Tung is not possible overland unless you are on a guided tour with a special permit. No visa-on-arrival is available though, so ensure that your Thai (if required) and Burmese visas are in order. ====China==== Foreigners can enter Myanmar at [[Muse (Myanmar)|Muse]] via [[Ruili]] (in [[Yunnan]]), although a permit (as well as a visa) and a guide are needed. You will most likely need to join an organized tour. Crossing in the opposite direction is more difficult to arrange and details are uncertain; however, it's possible to fly from [[Mandalay]] to [[Kunming]], and there's even a Chinese consulate that issues visas in Mandalay. ====India==== A land border crossing exists between [[India]] and Myanmar at Moreh/[[Tamu]] and is open to tourists who have vehicles and who are on foot or who have tours. As of 2023, Myanmar eVisas are ''not'' valid for entry at this border, so you'll need to get a visa in advance. This border is in politically unstable territory and there have been protests and two bomb blasts in the Indian town of Moreh (Oct 2019) which briefly closed the border. Tourists are generally advised not to loiter in Moreh, especially late at night- and to stay in Tamu on the Myanmar side if possible. It is no longer required to have a permit to visit the Indian state of [[Manipur]] which borders Myanmar. ====Laos==== The Myanmar-Laos Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River is the sole official border crossing between Myanmar and Laos. The bridge connects [[Shan State]] in Myanmar with [[Luang Namtha|Luang Namtha Province]] in [[Laos]], in a ''very'' remote region for both countries, and information on when (or whether) the crossing is operating is hard to find. As eVisas are not accepted for entry at this crossing, you'll need to get a visa in advance. ====Bangladesh==== It is not feasible to cross the border between Myanmar and [[Bangladesh]] independently. No border crossings exist between the two nations, and the Myanmar army has planted [[landmines]] along the frontier to discourage smugglers. ===By boat=== Small wooden longtail boats shuttle between [[Ranong]], [[Thailand]] and [[Kawthaung]], Myanmar. There is no fixed schedule; you just negotiate directly with one of the boat operators, and they will leave once a price is agreed on. Be sure to bargain hard or you might get ripped off. Boat operators may try you hustle you onto their boat before you find the immigration building to get stamped out; be firm and insist on going through immigration, or you will be considered to have left the country illegally. You will need to pay a US$10 or 500 Thai baht "stamping fee" to Myanmar immigration when entering or leaving via this checkpoint. If choosing to pay by U.S. dollars, be sure your bills are in pristine condition; even slight creases will cause your bills to be rejected. == Get around == Myanmar's infrastructure is in poor shape. Travel to certain regions is prohibited; for others, special permits must be obtained, and a guide/interpreter/minder may be mandatory - although whether these "guides" accompany you to look after you, or to keep you from going to places the government doesn't want you to see, is a question best discussed elsewhere. However, travel between the main tourist sites, namely Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon, is fairly straightforward. ===Restricted areas=== Much of Myanmar is closed to foreign travellers, and many land routes to far-flung areas are also closed (for example, to [[Mrauk U]], [[Kalewa]], [[Putao]], [[Kengtung]]). Due to longstanding ethnic conflicts, many ethnic minority areas are controlled by armed separatist groups and remain outside the control of the central government. Thus, while tourists can travel freely in the Bamar-majority Burmese heartland, travel tends to be restricted or circumscribed in ethnic minority areas. In theory, any tourist can apply for a permit to visit any restricted area or to travel on any restricted land route. In practice, it is unlikely that any such permit will be issued in a reasonable amount of time, or at all. Permit requests can be made locally in some cases (for example, requests for the land route to [[Kalewa]] can be made in [[Shwebo]]) but, in most cases, the request has to be made in [[Yangon]]. Requests to visit restricted areas must be made at the [http://myanmartravelsandtours.com/ MTT (Myanmar Travel and Tours)] office in Yangon (Number 77–91, Sule Pagoda Rd, Yangon). Applications for local permits can often be made at a local MTT office or at a police station. Local permits are available only for the following places & routes: *[[File:Pa-O women at restaurant stall, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Pa-O women at a restaurant stall]][[Kengtung]] - [[Tachilek]]. This used to be straightforward but the availability is now uncertain. *[[Mrauk U]] Chin/Zomi village tours. Easily available in Mrauk U, but must visit with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Myitkyina]] - [[Indawgyi Lake]]. Easily available in Myitkyina but must travel with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Shwebo]] - [[Kalewa]]. A permit is necessary if going by road. It is uncertain whether one is required if going by boat. *[[Pa-O Self-Administered Zone]] in [[Shan State]] (including the Kakku Pagodas). Available in [[Taunggyi]], but must be accompanied by a local Pa-O guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this. All other permits must be obtained in Yangon. Permits for some places, such as Putao, are obtainable but need to be applied for well in advance Myanmar is not [[North Korea]], and you are free to walk around, go to shops and interact with the locals. However, with many of the more far flung places, and places restricted to foreigners, it is better to arrange your internal visa in advance. Companies that can help with internal visas: *[http://www.mrmyanmartravel.com Mr Myanmar Travel] *[http://www.remoteasia.com Remote Asia Travel] *[http://www.travelmyanmar.com Travel Myanmar] ===By plane=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Sample fares between important destinations (through local tourist agency)''' ! From !! To !! Approximate fare |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || US$95 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || US$85 |- | [[Bagan]] || [[Heho]] || US$65 |- | [[Heho]] || [[Yangon]] || US$85 |} The poor state of Myanmar's roads and railways make flying by far the least uncomfortable option when travelling long distances. Flag carrier '''[https://www.flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airlines]''' operates a network of domestic flights to many destinations across Myanmar from its hub in Yangon International Airport. Long known for its poor safety record, it has improved dramatically with the purchase of newer aircraft, and these days compares favourably with many of the private airlines in terms of both service and safety. There are also several private airlines operating domestic flights from Yangon. The private airline companies are usually on time, and even depart early (10-20 min), so be on time and reconfirm your flight and flight time 1–2 days before departure. Sometimes the itinerary might be altered some days before departure (meaning that you will still fly to your final destination on the scheduled time, but with an added or removed in between stop, e.g., Yangon-Bagan becomes Yangon-Mandalay-Bagan). This usually only affects your arrival time. En route stops have only 10-20 min ground time, and if it is not your final destination, you can stay inside the plane during the stop. All domestic flight from Yangon depart from Terminal 3, while international flights depart from Terminals 1 & 2. When taking a taxi from downtown to the airport, mention to the driver that you are on a domestic flight so you'll not end up in the wrong terminal. ===By train=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Train travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Ordinary || Upper || Sleeper |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 16 hr || 4,600&nbsp;kyat || 9,300&nbsp;kyat || 13,000&nbsp;kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 6 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,500&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 4 hr || 550&nbsp;kyat || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 7 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,750&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Lashio]] || 16 hr || 1,900&nbsp;kyat || 4,400&nbsp;kyat || None |} Myanmar has an extensive rail network, a relic of British rule. Unfortunately, there has been little maintenance or growth since the British left. Trains are slow, noisy, uncomfortable, and prone to delays. Electrical blackouts are becoming rare but nonetheless never assume that air conditioners, fans or the electrical supply itself will be working throughout the whole journey. Most trains have upper class and ordinary class. Ordinary class has wide open windows, benches and can be packed with locals transporting their goods. Upper class has upholstered chairs, fans and is less crowded. Be careful putting your head out of the window as it is likely to be hit by a branch. Vegetation grows so close to the tracks that you can reach out and touch it. Tickets are cheap and tourists pay the same price as locals, but tourists cannot buy tickets on the train. At smaller stations, you may have to seek the stationmaster or use an interpreter to buy a ticket. Your passport is required when purchasing. [[File:Gokteik Viaduct, Southbound.jpg|thumb|The famous Gokteik Viaduct dates from 1899]] A journey on a train is a great way to see the country and meet people. The rail journey from [[Mandalay]], up hairpin bends to [[Pyin U Lwin]], and then across the mountains and the famous bridge at Gokteik, is one of the great railway journeys of the world. Trains in lower Mandalay, Yangon-Pathein and Yangon-Mawlymaing, are little communities of their own with hawkers selling everything imaginable. Sleepers are available on many overnight express trains, although in the high season you may want to reserve a few days in advance. Tickets go on sale three days in advance. At some stations there is a separate counter for advance bookings, or even a separate building (e.g., in Yangon). Food service is available on the express in both directions between Yangon and Mandalay. Except for the new bridge and rail line that connects [[Mawlamyine]] to points on the west side of the Salween River, the rail network is exactly the way it was in British times. The most-used line is the 325km line from Yangon to Mandalay with several trains a day. It is the only double line in Myanmar, and also the only one that is competitive in time with buses. The fastest trains take 15 hr for the 385km run, an effective rate of 25km/hour. A second line connects Yangon with Pyay, 9 hr for the 175&nbsp;km journey, with a branch heading off into the delta region town of Pathein. These tracks, the earliest constructed, are in poor shape. With the construction of the bridge across the Salween, it is now possible to go by train from Yangon to Mawlamyine, 8 hr for the 200km journey, and on to Ye and Dawei. From Mandalay, trains continue on to Myitkyina in Kachin State, 350km in 24 hr, and to Lashio. There are also rail connections between Yangon-Bagan and Mandalay-Bagan, but bus or ferry are better alternatives: the 175km from Mandalay to Bagan takes 10 hours. There is railway service between Yangon-Bagan. 16 hr, first class US$30, upper class US$40, sleeper US$50. (check new prices) Train tickets cannot be paid in dollars any more, and the government has abandoned the former dual-pricing structure that saw tourists pay inflated prices. === By boat === There is also a large river ferry network. Both are to a large extent run by the government, although there are now some private ferry services. The trip from Mandalay to Bagan takes the better part of a day, from Bagan to Yangon is several days. === By bus === {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ ''' Bus travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 11 hr || 10,400 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || 10 hr || 12,000 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 4 hr || 6,000 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 2 hr || 1,500 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 5.5 hr || 4,500 |} Buses of all types ply the roads of Myanmar. Luxury (relatively speaking) buses do the Mandalay-Yangon run while lesser vehicles can get travellers to other places. Fares are reasonable and in kyat and buses are faster than the trains. Many long-distance buses assign seats, so it is best to book seats at least a day in advance. Because the roads are bad, avoid the rear of the bus and try to sit as far up front as you can. Long-distance buses also have an extra jump seat that blocks the aisle and, because it is not well secured to the chassis, can be uncomfortable (which also means that there is no such thing as a side seat where taller people can stretch their legs). A window near the front of the bus is always the best option. Even budget travellers will find themselves buying more tickets via their hotel or an agency rather than going to the bus company to buy it directly. Their offices are often located far from any tourist place and the cost of going there and back will most likely exceed the commission your hotel will get for selling you the ticket. Shop around and compare prices before buying your ticket as some vendors include a free pick-up from your hotel. A bus ticket scam seems to be popular in Yangon. While many make a stopover in Bago, they are told at their guesthouse or at the bus station it's not possible to buy tickets there in the direction to Mandalay. In a country where everything might be possible when it comes to transport, some people fall for this. Actually, this is not the case and tracking back to Yangon for a bus ticket up north is not necessary at all. Bago has a bus terminal with several bus offices. Buying your ticket at Bago might be slightly cheaper (depending upon your bargaining skills) and gives you more freedom for the rest of your journey. The adjoining table summarises travel times and approximate fares between important tourist destinations in Myanmar. Most bus fares have gone up with the fuel price rises, so the fares listed are rough estimates. === By pick-up === Old pick-up trucks run everywhere in Myanmar, cheaply ferrying men, women, children, and monks from one place to another. The rear of the truck is converted into a canvas-covered sitting area with three benches, one on each side and one running along the centre of the truck (some smaller trucks have only two rows), and the running board is lowered and fixed into place providing room for six or more people to stand on (holding on to the truck frame). Pick-ups are ubiquitous in Myanmar and every town has a central point somewhere from where they depart to places both near and far. Tourists who go off the beaten track will find them indispensable because often the only alternative is an expensive taxi or private car. The basics of pickups are fairly straightforward, wait till it is reasonably full before heading out. On well-travelled routes (Mandalay-Pyin U Lwin, for example), they fill up quickly and the journey is quick. On less well-travelled routes ([[Bhamo]]-[[Katha]], for example), passengers arrive (early, usually around 06:00), mark their place, and then hang around drinking tea and chatting until the truck fills up. When the pick-up does get moving, it may linger or go out of its way in the hope of picking up more passengers. The inside of a pick-up can be hot and uncomfortable. Passengers, packed in like sardines, face away from the windows (which are tiny) and into the truck. Standing on the running board can be tiring and tough on the arms. The window side seat next to the driver is very comfortable and well-worth the little extra that you have to pay, so it is best to go early and reserve that seat. === By car === [[File:20160729 traffic in Mandalay 5761.jpg|thumb|Busy street in Mandalay]] You can hire a private car and driver at reasonable rates to tour independently. The licensed guides at Shwedagon Paya in Yangon can arrange to have a driver with a car meet you at your hotel. Another way is to arrange for a car through a travel agency, though it can be quite expensive. You can "test" the driver and the car by driving around the city for 10 or 15 minutes. If you are satisfied, a departure date and time and per diem rates (inclusive of petrol) can be negotiated. Some guides are willing to travel with you to serve as interpreters. Traffic drives on the '''right''' in Myanmar, but confusingly, Myanmar has a mixture of left- and right-hand-drive cars, with the majority of vehicles being right-hand-drive as a result of being second-hand imports from Japan or Thailand. Road travel to tourist destinations is generally safe, although some roads may be rough. Highways are often 2-lane, and cars often pass one another recklessly. That being said, driving habits are not quite as aggressive as say, [[Vietnam]]. Allow two days to drive from Yangon to Bagan in fair weather. Pyay is a good stopover point. Allow a day to drive from Bagan to Inle Lake. In cities, it is considered illegal to cross an amber light without stopping. Despite having crossed 3/4 of the way, you will be required to stop in the middle of the road and make your way back in reverse! Accidents and fatalities are common. Night-time road travel is not recommended, and medical facilities are limited in rural areas. At government hospitals, bribes may be required for services. Make sure needles are new or carry your own. HIV is a major problem in Myanmar. ===By taxi=== All taxis (and by extension all vehicles for transport of people and goods) have red/white licence plates, while private vehicles have a black/white licence plate. Tourist agency-owned cars have a blue/white licence plate. ===By ride-hailing=== The main ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/mm/en/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former South-east Asian operations, including that of Myanmar. Uber's short-lived venture into Myanmar occurred just one year prior to its takeover by Grab. In common with Grab's operations elsewhere in Southeast Asia, cash is not required as you can use the Grab app to pay with your card, though cash remains readily accepted. === By motorbike === In Yangon, riding motorcycles is illegal. Mandalay's streets, on the other hand, are filled with them. === By bicycle === In many places you can easily rent a bicycle for about 1,500 kyat per day to move around in your own pace. Around Inle Lake, cycling is a relaxing way to get to the next village or lake viewpoint. Mandalay is laid out on a grid which makes it very easy to navigate while cycling. Tourists used to pedal bicycles around the sights of Bagan, across difficult sandy paths under the hot sun, however electric bicycles are now the norm. At around ten times the price of a conventional bicycle, they are well worth the money. === On foot === Cars and pedestrians may not follow the established rules, and crossing the road can be difficult. Drivers will almost never yield to pedestrians, even on striped pedestrian crossings. ==See== [[File:InleRowing.jpg|300px|thumb|Leg rowing, Inle Lake]] Myanmar has not been a popular destination in Southeast Asia as visitors have been largely deterred by the country's volatile politics and restrictions placed on travel. But the political and travel situation has been improving notably since 2015. The country is a true, unspoiled treasure trove, and should capture the imagination of anyone interested in culture and history. Walking around [[Yangon]] brings you back to the time of 19th-century British colonial rule. Sparkling-clean parks and temples stand side by side decayed colonial-style buildings and deep potholes. Its cultural and religious attractions, like the '''Shwedagon Pagoda''', add to the city's feel of exoticism, as do the smiles of the locals. Every street corner brings something new—and a short ferry over the river even gives you a glimpse of rural life in the country. Cities of cultural and historical interest close to Yangon are [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] with its Buddhist sights, the delta town of [[Twante]] known for its pottery, and the pilgrimage site of [[Kyaiktiyo]] with its gold-gilded rock balancing precariously over a cliff. It's definitely worth it to further explore the Bamar heartland. Unfortunately some outer fringes of the country are off-limits to foreigners, but it's always worth checking the latest situation with people on the ground as things move so fast that the Internet rarely if ever has correct information. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703742020).jpg|thumb|Pyin U Lwin]] The former city of [[Bagan]] is a gem, and gives a glimpse of what life in the 11th and 12th centuries here must have been like. Marco Polo described it as the "gilded city alive with tinkling bells and the swishing sounds of monks' robes". It is the largest and densest concentration of Buddhist temples, pagodas, stupas and ruins in the world. [[Mrauk U]] is a sleepy village today but its crumbling pagodas and temples remind of the early modern period, when it was the capital city of an empire involved in extensive maritime trade with Portuguese, Dutch, French and Arab traders. Within a daytrip from [[Mandalay]] is [[Inwa]], another former capital where ruins remain to remind visitors of its former glory. Also don't miss [[Pyin U Lwin]], a former British hill station with somewhat cooler temperatures. The country has its fair share of '''natural attractions'''. [[Inle Lake]] is popular with backpackers, and it is one of the few places that is starting to feel like a tourist trap. Still, a trip to Myanmar is not complete without a boat trip on the lake. It has a unique vibe with tribes living in stilt houses and paddling their traditional wooden boats with one leg. The country's long southwestern coastline also has a few '''beaches''', such as [[Chaung Tha]] and [[Ngapali]]. If you visit outside of the traditional holiday season, you might just have a beautiful white sand beach for yourself. Myanmar is a country inhabited with dozens of ethnic groups, but sites from the major '''independent Burmese kingdoms''' dating from the 9th century can be seen in sections of the country. ==Do== [[File:Chinlone Burma.jpg|thumb|Burmese men playing chinlone]] Myanmar is an excellent country for '''trekking'''. [[Kalaw]] is a centre for trekking, and has miles and miles of trails through mountains and hill tribe villages. [[Kengtung]] is also known for its hiking paths to hill tribe villages, while [[Hsipaw]] has some great treks to waterfalls. '''Birdwatching''' can be done around [[Inle Lake]]. Myanmar's national sport is '''chinlone''', played with a small rattan ball. The objective of the game is to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible without using one's arms or hands, and to do it as beautifully as possible. Spectacular '''scuba diving''' and unspoiled beaches abound in the Mergui Archipelago in [[southeastern Myanmar]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Myanmar kyat (official rates) | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;kyat | date=January 2025 | USD=2,100 | EUR=2,150 | GBP=2,600 | CNY=285 | INR=25 | THB=605 | SGD=1,530 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mmk-burmese-kyat xe.com]}} {{infobox|Currency Games |Myanmar is still predominantly a cash economy. However, ATMs are widespread. In a misguided attempt to fight rampant black marketeering, the Myanmar government has a habit of ''declaring notes to be worthless'': this happened first in 1964. In 1985, the 20, 50, and 100 kyat notes were withdrawn again and replaced with new kyat notes in the unusual denominations of 25, 35, and 75, possibly chosen because of dictator general Ne Win's predilection for numerology; the 75-kyat note was introduced on his 75th birthday. In 1987, the government demonetized the 25, 35, and 75 kyat notes with no prior warning, rendering some 75% of the country's currency worthless. A new series of 15, 45, and 90-kyat notes was issued, incorporating Ne Win's favourite number 9. The resulting economic disturbances led to serious riots and eventually the 1989 coup by General Saw Maung. The post-coup notes come in more normal denominations from 1–1,000 kyat, and this time the old ones remain legal tender, so far.}} Myanmar's currency is the '''kyat''', pronounced "chat". Prices may be shown locally using the abbreviation of '''K''' (singular or plural) or '''Ks''' (plural) either before or after the amount and depending very much on who is doing the sign writing. The ISO abbreviation is '''MMK'''. Wikivoyage articles will use ''kyat'' to denote the currency. ''Pya'' are coins, and are rarely seen since their value has become increasingly insignificant with even the largest 50 pya coin worth less than US$0.001. Banknotes of Myanmar are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 kyats. You may also come across 20, 10, 5, and 1 ''kyat'' and 50 ''pya'' banknotes. They are valid but rarely found and best held onto as souvenirs. Older banknotes in strange denominations are sold to tourists and, while typically genuine, are rarely if ever valuable. The notes of 50 kyat, 100 kyat, 200 kyat, and 500 kyat are usually in a horrible condition, but are generally accepted when making small purchases. The 1,000 kyat notes are slightly better. 5,000 and 10,000 kyat notes always appear new after exchanging foreign currencies. When exchanging money, check that the banknotes you receive are in a generally good condition. If the exchange gives you kyat notes in horrible condition, you can ask them to exchange them for notes in better condition. Dispose of remaining kyat before leaving. Outside of Myanmar, kyat is almost worthless but do make nice souvenirs. Kyat cannot be legally exchanged abroad, though some money changers in places with large overseas Burmese populations such as [[Singapore]] will exchange anyway, but at terrible rates. Kyat can be exchanged on departure from Yangon Airport at decent rates. ====US dollars==== {{infobox|Is it safe?|So, you're travelling around carrying hundreds, if not thousands, of U.S. dollars stuffed into your pockets in a country where most people subsist on a few dollars a day. Everyone around you knows that if they could get their hands on the money in your pockets, they will be rich for life. What, you may ask, are the odds that someone will try to relieve you of your money? The answer: almost nil. There have been very few instances of a tourist being mugged and only the rare cases of pilfering. Myanmar is an extremely safe country for travellers. Some say it is because of the nature of the people. Others say it is because the punishment for robbing from a foreigner is draconian, whilst others say it is because of Buddhism, which prohibits people from taking what is not given.}} Foreigners are no longer required to pay in U.S. dollars for hotels, tourist attractions, rail and air tickets, ferry travel and for bus tickets. As of 2015, foreign currency instability and the weakening kyat means that many venues will state prices in U.S. dollars, even though it is illegal to do so. Expat restaurants still often quote in U.S. dollars despite actions from the Central Bank prohibiting excess dollar usage. It is illegal for a Myanmar citizen to accept (or hold) U.S. dollars without a licence, but this law is mostly ignored and U.S. dollars are generally accepted. Never insist, though, because it may be dangerous for the receiver. Bring very clean, unfolded U.S. dollars (or they will not be accepted by hotels, restaurants and money changers). Even small imperfections can be cause to reject a U.S. banknote. Keep all U.S. dollars in impeccable condition, and do not fold them. If you do end up with a few, try using them for purchases rather than exchange, or try to exchange them in a few different places. ====ATMs==== There are plenty of ATMs all across the country accepting international Visa and MasterCard. The bigger and more touristic the place the more ATMs it has. Smaller tourist destinations also have ATMs (Bagu, Hpa-An, etc.), but not so many. Make sure to carry a buffer outside of major tourist hotspots. If an ATM does not work, try the next one. Usual withdrawal limit is 300,000 kyat with a processing fee of 5,000 kyat. In case you run out of money, ask your taxi driver to drive you to the CB Bank ATM. '''Note''': Your bank may refuse to process ATM transactions with some/all banks in Myanmar, even if the ATM accepts Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank prior to entering the country. ====Credit cards==== Upmarket tourist places (hotels, agencies, restaurants) are accepting credit cards (and will surcharge accordingly). So you can even pay with mastercard in a store in the middle of Inle Lake for purchases value more than US$100. But nonetheless paper money is the only way to pay in most places. Beside the ATMs, there are places (e.g. hotels in Yangon) where cash can be obtained with a credit card (''cash advance''), but the rates are extremely uncompetitive (with premiums certainly no lower than around 7%, and with quotes of 30% and more frequently reported). Also, they may need to see your passport to process the transaction. For US citizens, it is also possible to receive funds from friends or relatives in an emergencies through the US Embassy. ====Money exchange==== The foreign currency of choice in Myanmar is the US dollar, though you can readily also exchange euros and Singapore dollars in Yangon and Mandalay, but perhaps not beyond. Other options are the Chinese Yuan and Thai Baht. The best rates are in Yangon and Mandalay. Major foreign currencies need to be in good condition—other currencies like rupees and baht are often accepted even if worn out. The military junta re-imposed currency controls in 2021, again leading to a yawning gap between the official rate (fixed at 2100 kyat/dollar) and the black market rate, which ranged from 3,400 to 5,600/dollar in 2024. Banks and money changers only sell kyat at the official rate. Exchanging on the '''black market is illegal''': sellers risking jail time and the junta periodically cracks down. Especially on holidays and Sundays, all your necessary money should be changed at the airport as banks in town are closed. Money changers offer significantly lower rates (5-10% lower) for changing US dollars and euros. The most hassle-free option is to change all your required money at the airport, depending on the rate to change it back. Look around different banks for the best exchange rate. Be sure to bring a mix of foreign denominations when visiting Myanmar because money changers will sometimes not give change and smaller notes (in good condition) are useful for some entry fees and transport. Even though, larger bills give the best exchange rates at banks. Ensure that foreign notes are: * Unmarked – No stamps, anti-counterfeit pen, ink or any other mark on them at all. Pencil can be removed with a good eraser, but any permanent marks will greatly decrease a note's value and ability to be exchanged. * Fresh, crisp and as close to brand new as possible – Moneychangers have been known to reject notes just for being creased and/or lightly worn. * Undamaged – No tears, missing bits and pieces, holes, repairs or anything of that sort. * Preferably of the new design, with the larger portrait, and the multiple-colour prints. Although, old-style US$1 are still commonly traded. * For US$100 bills, have no serial numbers starting "CB". This is because they are associated with a counterfeit "superbill" which was in circulation some time ago. '''Scams''': * There are a number of tricks and scams running around Myanmar trapping tourists who are carrying US dollars. Sometimes, guesthouses or traders will try and pass you damaged or nonexchangeable bills in change. Always inspect all notes when making a purchase and request that the vendor swap any notes you think you will have trouble using down the track—this is perfectly acceptable behaviour for both vendors and customers, so don't be shy. * Some money changers will also attempt sleight of hand tricks to either swap your good banknotes for damaged, or lower denomination notes. Other reports suggest that the kyats may be counted and then somehow, some disappear from the table during the transaction. For example, after going through an elaborate counting process for piles of ten 1,000 kyat notes, some money changers will pull some notes out as they count the piles of ten. * When changing money, be sure that, after any money is counted, it is not touched by anyone until the deal is sealed. Also do not allow your dollars or major foreign currencies to be removed from your sight until all is agreed; in fact, it is not even necessary to pull out your US dollars until your are paying for the kyats you received. It sounds extreme, but ending up in a country where you cannot access whatever savings you have, and having a good portion of your budget rendered useless (until you get to more relaxed changers in Bangkok) can really put a dampener on your plans. ====Travellers cheques==== Travellers cheques are '''not accepted''' in Myanmar. The only exception might be some especially shady money changer, but be prepared to pay an astronomical commission (30% is not uncommon). ===Shopping=== When visiting tourist attractions, you will likely be swarmed by local hawkers, many of them children, trying to sell you souvenirs. Be sure to [[Bargaining|bargain]] hard should you decide to buy from them. Owing to decades of repressive military rule, a great many service and travel-oriented companies have strong links to the military. These are vital ways for the military to earn money, particularly foreign currency. If you wish to avoid spending money at military-owned or military-associated businesses, download the [https://waywaynay.com/ Way Way Nay Boycott app]. ====Tipping==== Tipping is generally not practised by the Burmese themselves. However, given widespread poverty in the country, tips are certainly appreciated if you have been provided with exemplary service. Tips that are charged to a credit card almost never make it to the service staff, so if you wish to tip, make sure you hand it over in cash to the person who served you. ====Costs==== Despite being less developed, Myanmar is expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or Vietnam. This is particularly true of hotel prices in the main tourists areas, as demand far outstrips supply. Similarly, the lack of competition from budget airlines has also made domestic flights rather expensive. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703766279).jpg|thumb|Night market in Pyin U Lwin]] It's not possible to be comfortable on less than US$25/day (May 2013). Foreigners will likely be charged fees, including video camera, camera, entrance, parking and zone fees. Most managed tourist site charge for carrying cameras of any sort into the area. Double rooms with private bathroom are nearly always more than US$20, in Yangon a double room without bathroom costs US$20. Dorm beds are around US$10 (or US$8 if you accept to lose a lot of value) (Sep 2015). While you cannot save on accommodation, you can save on food. Street food can get as low as US$0.30 for 2 small curries with 2 Indian breads, US$1 for a normal (vegetarian) dish. Even in touristy places like Bagan dishes cost under US$1 (vegetarian) and US$2 (meat). A draught Myanmar beer (5%) is around 600 kyat, a bottle of Myanmar beer (650 ml) is around 1,700 kyat, a bottle of Mandalay beer (6.5%, 650 ml) around 1,200 kyat. ====What to buy==== * '''Antiques''' – Purchasing antiquities and antiques in Myanmar is at best a legal grey area with the 2015 passage of the new Antiquities Law, and often illegal for any item over 100 years old. Penalties include prison and fines. It is recommended to avoid purchasing antiques as a tourist, unless you're willing to get an export permit from the Ministry of Culture on your way out and you have enough knowledge to avoid the fakes. Replicas and fakes are rife in Bogyoke market and other anitque stores frequented by tourists. It is against the law to export religious antiques (manuscripts, Buddhas, etc.) * '''Art''' – The Myanmar Art market has exploded, with local artists' works going for good values in Yangon and Mandalay. Visit the numerous galleries in Yangon to get a feel for available works. Art is often related to Buddhism and the difficult socio-political situation, as well as more traditional Victorian-influenced subjects like markets, old women smoking cigars, tribal members, and monks. There is a lot of cheap/mass-painted and derivative works at Bogyoke Market. * '''[[Gemstones]]''' – Myanmar is best known as for its [[jade]] and [[rubies]] (the granting of a license to the French over the ruby mines in [[Mogok]] was one of the causes leading to the Third Burmese War), and also produces some really fine [[sapphires]]. These can be obtained at a fraction of what it would cost in the West. There are a lot of fakes for sale amid the genuine stuff and, unless you know your gems, buy from an official government store or risk being cheated. Bogoyoke Aung San Market and the Myanmar Gems Museum in [[Yangon]] has many licensed shops and is generally a safe place for the purchase of these stones. The jade market in [[Mandalay]] is also worth a visit, where most of the jade is brought from the mines to be sold to merchants, and you can observe merchants haggling over the prices of both raw jade and various jade items in all stages of the production process. You can also purchase some jade trinkets yourself, but be prepared to haggle, and make sure you do your homework before buying or you risk getting ripped off. * '''Lacquerware''' – A popular purchase, which is made into bowls, cups, vases, tables and various items, and is available almost anywhere. The traditional centre of lacquerware production is [[Bagan]] in [[Central Myanmar]], and most tours include a stop at one of the local lacquerware factories where you can purchase one of these. Beware of fraudulent lacquer ware, though, which is poorly made, but looks authentic. As a guide, the stiffer the lacquer, the poorer the quality; the more you can bend and twist it, the finer the quality. * '''Tapestries''' – Known as ''kalaga'', or ''shwe chi doe''. There is a long tradition of weaving tapestries in Burma. These are decorated with gold and silver thread and sequins and usually depict tales from the Buddhist scriptures (the ''jatakas'') or other non-secular objects from Burmese Buddhism (mythical animals, the ''hintha'', and the ''kalong'' are also popular subjects). The tapestry tradition is dying out but many are made for tourists and are available in Mandalay and Yangon. Burmese tapestries don't last long, so be warned if someone tries to sell you an antique ''shwe chi doe''! * '''Textiles''' – Textiles in Myanmar are stunning. Each region and each ethnic group has its own style. Chin fabrics are particularly stunning. They are handwoven in intricate geometric patterns, often in deep reds and mossy greens and white. They can be quite pricey, perhaps US$20 for the cloth to make a longyi (sarong). ==Eat== [[File:Outdoor café, Yangon, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Outdoor café in Yangon]] Burmese food is influenced by that of India and China, yet unique. Apart from Burmese food, other ethnic traditional foods such as Shan food, Rakhine food, and Myeik food are also distinct. Rice is at the core of Burmese food, and good vegetarian food is widely available. Burmese food is often extremely pungent. Similar to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, '''fish sauce''' (ငံပြာရည် ''ngan bya yay'') is a very popular condiment in Myanmar, and is used to flavour many dishes. Food is inexpensive at most restaurants (priced at 500–3,000 kyat per item at most local restaurants, but can go as high as 8,000 kyat at posh restaurants). There are many up-market restaurants in Yangon and Mandalay. The majority of low-to-mid-priced restaurants use a cheap blend of palm oil for cooking. This oil may be unhealthy, and common roadside restaurants should be avoided if you are at the slightest risk for hypertension, heart disease, or other fat- or cholesterol-related conditions. Higher class restaurants may use peanut oil instead. Specific dishes include: [[File:Chapati and mutton curry.JPG|thumb|Chapati and mutton curry]] * '''Curry''' &ndash; Burmese people have a very different definition of curry than other countries. It is very spicy compared to Indian and Thai options, and although you may find it served at room temperature in cheaper restaurants, in a typical Burmese home all curry dishes are served hot. Burmese curry does not contain coconut milk, unlike its other SE Asian counterparts, and has a large quantity of onion or tomato depending on region and cook's preference. Myanmar is the highest per-capita consumer of onions in the world. Quite often Burmese curries are cooked with lots of oil, much more than other regional curries. * '''Samosa thoke''' (samosa salad) &ndash; A popular street dish of chickpeas, potatoes, tomato, cabbage, mint and a smashed samosa. * '''Mohinga''' (pronounced ''mo-HIN-ga'') &ndash; A dish of rice vermicelli with fish chowder, usually accompanied by coriander and chili powder. Its taste can range from sweet to spicy, and is usually eaten at breakfast. It is considered by many to be the national dish, and is widely available throughout the country, albeit in different styles in different regions. * '''Mote lin-mayar''' (Couples snacks) &ndash; Small tiny pancakes with chives, chickpeas or quail eggs. * '''Sticky rice''' &ndash; Served plain or with turmeric or black rice * '''Nan Gyi Thoke''' (pronounced ''nan gyi thou'') &ndash; A special dish of rice noodle salad with chicken sauce. It is mostly eaten in mid-Myanmar. * '''Onnokauswe''' (pronounced ''oun-NO-kao-sui'') &ndash; A dish of thicker noodles in a thick soup of coconut milk with chicken. It is served with a variety of condiments accompanying it, ranging from fried fruit fritters to solidified duck blood. "Khao soi"("noodle" in Shan), often found on the streets of Chiang Mai, is derived from this Burmese counterpart. It is also comparable to the spicier laksa often found in peninsular SE countries like Malaysia and Singapore. * '''Shan food''' &ndash; The Shan are an ethnic group who inhabit Shan State around Inle lake, near the Thai border. Their food is marvelous. It can be found in Yangon easily. :* '''Shan tofu''' &ndash; Made with mung beans instead of soya beans these yellow blocks are served fried or in a cold noodle salad. :* '''Laphet thote''' (pronounced ''la-peh THOU'') &ndash; A salad of fermented tea leaves and a variety of fried nuts. It is commonly mixed with sliced lettuce, and is eaten with rice. * '''Chinese food''' &ndash; Available in most cities and usually authentic, if plain. * '''Kachin food''' &ndash; Mainly available in Kachin State, though a number of Kachin restaurants can be found in Yangon and Mandalay. Kachin food is less oily and uses less MSG than Burmese food, and you may find it a good alternative if Burmese curries are not to your liking. == Drink == '''Tap water''' in Myanmar is not safe to drink, however factory-made ice in restaurants and other shops is OK. '''Bottled water''' is readily available. You can also safely drink from the many clay jars dotted around the country, or find safe drinking water in temples. Just look for the large steel tanks with cups tied to the spigots. Water in the clay jars is filtered and many Myanmar people use them. Owners of the jars fill them up with water as a way to make merit. Similar to Chinese tea, ''Yenwejan'' is usually provided free at restaurant tables. While not flavourful, it is boiled water, and so safe to drink (do not drink plain water - even in restaurants - unless it is bottled water). Dried tea leaves similar to Laphet thote's tea leaves (except these are wet) are added to the boiled water to give ''Yenwejan''. Be sure to order it with ''Laphet thote'' (customary/good combination). '''Milk tea''' (လက်ဖက်ရည် ''La-Phet-Yay'') is also popular in Myanmar and widely available in the local markets and teahouses but beware: the Burmese like their milk teas very, ''very'' sweet. '''Alcohol''' is frowned upon by conservative Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, but consumed widely, mostly among men. Myanmar Beer is most popular in the country. Other variants, including Mandalay Beer exist. However, many of such companies are government-owned and/or have links to the drug trade. '''Toddy juice''' (''ta-YEI'') is popular in central Myanmar, and is made from fermented palm sugar. An alcoholic drink popular in the Shan State is '''Shwe le maw''', and is reportedly very strong. It is also possible to buy full strength Beer Chang imported from Thailand; exports to most countries are not nearly as strong. Beware of alcoholic drinks served in the far northern states. The locals refer to it as '''alcohol which does not burn''' when lit, and it is widely suspected to be an opiate concoction rather than a fermented beverage. There are a lot of nightclubs, including those attached to the five star hotels (e.g. Grand Plaza), and also local entertainment centres (e.g. JJs, Asia plaza). === Teahouses === [[File:Myanmar Tea House Food.jpg|thumb|Tea and snacks at a tea house]] Teahouses are important places of social gathering and popular throughout the country. They look like restaurants but if you watch closely you will notice that people are drinking a lot of Chinese tea (free), light brown tea and are mainly snacking. Some teahouses also offer simple dishes as fried rice or noodles. Once seated they will expect you to order coffee but that's not what you should go for as it is almost always instant coffee. Order tea, a type of black tea with milk that differ in strength and sweetness: *''bone mahn'': balanced *''cho seh'': sweet *''kyaw p'daung'': sweeter *''pan brown'': bitter and sweet *''jah hseent'': light, with milk, not strong *''pancho'': strong *''bow hseent'': less strong *''noe hseent dee'': milk tea without sugar You will completely mispronounce the tea names (second and sixth are relatively easy) and people might not get what you want at all since it's rare for foreigners to order these teas. So it's better to ask your hotel or any local speaking English to write down the names in Burmese. Since you are a foreigner they will assume that you want your tea ''sheh'' - special - which means it will come with condensed milk. It's also possible to order a ''tankie'' and so the tea will come in a big pot. A simple cup of tea costs 200-400 kyat. Small snacks like samosas, cakes or sweet balls are readily available at the table. If not, ask. At the end you will only pay for the number of pieces eaten. Foodies should check out the type of snacks before deciding on a teahouse. It is not impolite at all to bring your own food, as long as you order at least ''something''. == Sleep == [[File:Sule-Pagoda by-Night.jpg|thumb|Night in Yangon]] Myanmar has good hotel accommodation, particularly in major cities and the main tourist areas, though prices are substantially higher than in [[Thailand]] or [[Vietnam]]. Rooms with attached bath are available for under US$10 everywhere except Yangon and with shared bath for anywhere from US$3–6 in most places. Almost every hotel licensed for foreigners has running hot water (though, in remote areas, availability may be restricted to certain hours of the day). Hotels, with a few exceptions, are usually clean. At the budget end, sheets and blankets may be threadbare and the rooms may be poorly ventilated. A few low-end hotels, particularly in Yangon and other large cities, specialize in cubicle rooms, small single rooms with no windows which, while cheap and clean, are not for the claustrophobic. Rates are quoted as single/double, but the rooms are usually the same whether one person or two stay in the room, making good hotels a real bargain if travelling as a couple. Except at the top-end, breakfast is always included in the price of the room. The tourism boom in Myanmar has left its infrastructure struggling to cope with the increased numbers of visitors. Hotel rooms tend to sell out really fast, and those in popular tourist destinations often sell out months in advance. As a result of the lack of supply, prices have also increased substantially. You should make your hotel bookings well in advance of your planned trip to Myanmar in order not to be stranded when you arrive. Wild camping is not legal in Myanmar. Myanmar has a problem providing enough electricity to its people and power supply is severely restricted everywhere. In many places, electricity may be available only for a few hours each evening or, in some cases, only every alternate evening. If you don't want to spend your nights without a fan or air conditioning, ask if the hotel has a generator (most mid-priced hotels do). On generator nights, the air conditioning in your room may not work (the price is usually lower as well). Even if a hotel has a generator, there is no guarantee that it will be used to provide you electricity at the times you require, so be ready for blackouts at any time of day or night. Major tourist hotels in Yangon and Mandalay have near-uninterrupted electricity supply, but can cost anywhere from US$80–300 per night. At the top-end, Myanmar has some excellent hotels including one or two great ones (The Strand in Yangon and Kandawgyi Palace Hotel in Yangon). The Myanmar government runs many hotels, including some beautiful colonial era ones (though not the two listed in the previous sentence). A percentage of all accommodation payments goes to the government, no matter where you choose to stay, and it is not possible to run a successful business in Myanmar without some relationship or payment arrangement with the military. == Work == {{overseasjobscam|Myanmar, particularly in the areas along the Thai border. In many cases, victims are lured to Thailand with a job offer, then trafficked across the border into Myanmar}} Work in Myanmar for foreigners is hard to come by. NGOs and other aid groups operate in the capital and remote rural areas but may require specific skill sets to hire you. Another option is European and Asian companies, mostly operating on a small scale. Teaching English is feasible in private schools but many foreigners have reported unreasonable contracts, such as withholding pay and refusing to pay those who resign early. The education ministry only hires citizens with teaching certification. If you would like to work and assist Burmese refugees, certain NGOs work in neighbouring [[Thailand]]. == Stay safe == === Crime === The government punishes crime, particularly against tourists, severely; as a result, as far as crime and personal safety go, Myanmar is extremely safe for tourists, and it is generally safe to walk on the streets alone at night. In fact, you are less likely to be a victim of crime in Myanmar than in [[Thailand]] or [[Malaysia]]. However, as with anywhere else, little crime does not mean no crime and it is still no excuse to ditch your common sense. As a foreigner, the most common crime you should be worried about is petty theft, so keep your belongings secured. Physical and verbal harassment towards foreigners is uncommon, even on urban walks near bars. Since 2005, [[Yangon]] and [[Mandalay]] have seen a barely perceptible rise in the very low level of street robberies. There were isolated bombings in 2005 in Mandalay and Yangon, and in 2006 in [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]. === Illegal substances === {{Warningbox|Drug offences are '''''severely punished''''' by the Burmese authorities. Convicted offenders can expect to face lengthy prison sentences. |us = https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Burma.html |canada = https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar }} ===Begging=== Despite traditional taboos against it, [[begging]] has become a major problem in the main tourist areas such as [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] and [[Bagan]]. Children and "mothers" carrying babies are often the ones who beg as they are more effective at soliciting pity. Most beggars are part of larger begging syndicates or just after easy money, as tourists are usually seen to be rich. In addition, the poor can always obtain food for free from the nearest monastery if they can't afford to pay for it, so begging is not necessary for their survival. If you choose to give, note that most Burmese earn only US$40 a month doing manual labour and so giving US$1 to a beggar is ''very'' generous. ===Fake monks=== Theravada Buddhism is the main religion in Myanmar, and it is customary for monks to go on alms rounds in the morning. Unfortunately, there are also many bogus monks who hang out around the main tourist attractions preying on unsuspecting visitors. Alms rounds are solely for the purpose of collecting food: genuine monks are forbidden from accepting, or even touching money. Monks are forbidden from eating after noon, and are also not allowed to sell items or use high pressure tactics to solicit donations. Authentic monks are often found in single file lines with their alms bowls. If you see a single monk requesting money from foreigners he is a fraud. === Corruption === Myanmar is one of the world's most corrupt countries. Officials and other civil servants may discreetly ask you for a bribe, or invent issues (missing forms, closed offices, etc.) in order to get you to suggest one. Pretending not to understand or asking to speak to a superior may work. However, white visitors are rarely targeted, while those of Asian descent (including South Asians and East Asians) may be forced to give bribes, but the brunt of the problem hits normal Burmese. Westerners are very rarely asked for bribes, although most bribes are a US dollar or less, and requested by people earning as little as US$30/month. === Driving conditions === [[File:Jampacked car in Kalaw (Myanmar 2013) (11773361556).jpg|thumb|One of many right-hand drive vehicles imported from Japan into Myanmar. These cause inherent visibility problems when driving on the right side of the road]] The poor road infrastructure, and a mixture of extremely ancient vehicles on the country's roads are all what best describe the road conditions. However, driving habits are not very aggressive compared to say, [[Vietnam]], which does make the safety of the roads comfortable for almost everyone. Although rare, youths sometimes compete against each other on the roads, which has led to some casualties over the past few years. Bus drivers are among the worst dangers, although this is somewhat less of an issue since 2010 due to new, very harsh penalties imposed on bus drivers involved in accidents. Surprisingly, Burma has a mixture of both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, with the majority being right-hand drive (used imports from Japan) but driving is generally done on the right side of the roads. Unless you have experience driving in countries with poorly disciplined drivers and very shabby vehicles, try to avoid driving in Myanmar; alternatively, arrange for a local driver to take you around. === Civil conflict === Various insurgent groups continue to operate in the '''Mon, and Chin (Zomi), states''' of Myanmar, along the Thai and Chinese borders. Travel to these regions generally requires a government permit. The government also sometimes restricts travel to '''Kayah State, Rakhine State, and Kachin State''' due to insurgent activity. However travel is entirely unrestricted to the districts of Yangon, Bago, Ayeyarwady, Sagaing, Taninthayi, Mandalay, and Magwe. Some areas that have been reported as closed have become open without notice, and areas previously regarded as open can become closed with no warning. In addition, local immigration offices may have their own interpretations of regulations. === Politics === [[File:Propaganda, Myanmar 2.jpg|thumb|"Tatmadaw [Armed Forces] and the people in eternal unity. Anyone attempting to divide them is our enemy."]] Myanmar is again under harsh military rule as it was from 1962 - 2012, with a reputation for repressing dissent, as in the case of the house arrest of democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi. There used to be more than 1,500 political prisoners (sentences of 65 years and hard labor in remote camps were given to leaders of the Saffron Revolution), although some have been released. When in Myanmar, abstain from political activities and don't insult the government. Discuss politics, if you must, with people who have had time to get a feel for you. The danger, however, is primarily posed to those you speak with, so let them lead the conversation. Also, realize that many phone lines are tapped. And if you absolutely must wave a democracy banner on the street, you'll simply find yourself on the next outbound flight. Between 2012–2020, liberty in general increased under the new government. A few politically critical articles have been published in government newspapers and a satirical film deriding the government's film censorship policy has been released, neither of which would have been possible even in 2010. Returning visitors to Myanmar may find that locals have become ever so slightly more open to discussions regarding politics. However, under any circumstances avoid doing things that might make the military or police feel uncomfortable, such as taking pictures of police and police buildings or vehicles. == Stay healthy == Hygiene in Myanmar may seem terrible to the average Westerner but it is possible to stay healthy with some basic precautions such as prophylactic medication, care choosing food and water, and antibacterial ointment. '''Never drink [[tap water]]'''. Restaurants are legally required to use ice made and sold by bottled water companies, so ordering ice is usually safe in major places. Always drink bottled water and check that the cap is sealed on, not simply screwed on. Diseases such as [[dengue fever]], [[Japanese encephalitis]] and [[malaria]] are endemic. Drug-resistant strains of malaria and tuberculosis are common in many areas. Hepatitis vaccinations are highly recommended and the cholera oral vaccine is worthwhile. At the dinner table, Burmese use a spoon and fork, or their fingers when this is more convenient. You might feel better rinsing all of them before meals. Antibacterial wipes or alcohol hand-rub is a good idea at regular intervals. As in many developing countries: "if you can't fry, roast, peel or boil it - then forget it". ===HIV=== The rate of HIV infection in Myanmar is high by Western and Asian standards (0.7% of the population in 2019). ===Healthcare=== Myanmar's healthcare system is poorly funded. If you should fall sick in Myanmar, you can visit the doctor in major cities for minor ailments. However, for more serious medical care, hospital conditions tend to be unsanitary and there is often a shortage of medical supplies. The only hospital that comes close to modern developed standards is Pun Hlaing Hospital, a privately owned hospital which is in a remote township of Yangon called Hlaing Thar Yar, and one should expect very high expenses there. Most of the hospitals are government owned, which means poorly funded. Most of the government officials and rich locals go to [[Thailand]] or [[Singapore]] for more serious medical treatment and hospitalisation, and you will be better off doing so too. Make sure you get travel insurance as arranging to be airlifted in an emergency is rather costly. The clinic formerly operated by the Australian Embassy in Yangon closed in 2018. There is a good [https://myanmarmix.com/en/directory/international-sos-clinic-yangon international medical clinic] at the Inya Lake Hotel in Yangon for consulting, testing, radiology and minor surgery. == Respect == {{infobox|Naming conventions|Unlike in many other cultures, there is generally no concept of a family name, patronymic or matronymic in Burmese culture, and most individuals only have a given name. For example, the 8th President, '''Htin Kyaw''', only has a given name with no family name, patronymic or matronymic, and would be addressed as Mr Htin Kyaw by most English speakers. Often, a Burmese honorific, usually '''U''' (ဦး) for men or '''Daw''' (ဒေါ်) for women, may be added to the beginning of the name, so he may be addressed as ''U Htin Kyaw''.}} [[File:Mrauk U - 0002.jpg|thumb|400px|[[Mrauk U]], the old capital of Rakhine in Myanmar]] Modest clothing is highly appreciated everywhere except nightclubs, and practically required in religious places such as pagodas, temples and monasteries (of which there are thousands). Miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed in consecrated areas, where you also have to remove your footwear, so loafers and flip-flops that you can slip on and off at the entrance are preferable. Myanmar has some of the most stunning temples in Asia and you will be tempted to visit more than you think. In Myanmar, you have to remove your footwear before entering the entire temple complex, including in outdoor areas. You might want to bring some wet wipes so you can clean your feet after visiting. Burmese people generally do not engage in public display of affection, even among married couples, and it is generally considered distasteful and should be avoided. Both men and women wear a ''longyi'', a sort of sarong sold everywhere, and it is not unusual to see Caucasian foreigners walking around in them. They are wrapped in different ways for men and women, so find out how to tie yours. If you turn up at a temple in inappropriate dress, you can always rent a longyi for a pittance. When giving and receiving '''business cards''', always use your right hand with the palm facing up, and your left hand supporting your right elbow. As the left hand is traditionally reserved for dirty things, handling business cards with it is considered to be very rude. Tourists of Caucasian descent are commonly referred to as ''bo'', which translates to "officer", a linguistic relic of colonization. Address elders with ''U'' (pronounced "oo", as in s'''oo'''n) or "Uncle" for men, and ''Daw'' or "Auntie" for women. Generally speaking, despite the common negative perception of the government, most ordinary Burmese people are incredibly friendly and polite as long as you respect their local customs. Customer service is in general very good (some say better than in [[Thailand]]) but customer service staff are invariably poorly paid, so you might wish to tip service staff generously to ensure your money goes into the right hands. ===Politics=== Avoid discussing relations with the Rohingya and the ongoing ethnic cleansing as this is a very sensitive and emotive issue that can potentially escalate into a confrontation. The vast majority of Burmese people regard the Rohingya as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh who have no right to be in Myanmar, and their Muslim religion is seen by many as a threat to Buddhism. Most Burmese people are offended when the Rohingya are referred to as such, and will insist that you use the term "Bengali" to refer to them instead. Tread carefully when discussing relations with [[China]]. Even though both the military junta and Aung San Suu Kyi had developed close ties with China and invited Chinese investment in Myanmar's infrastructure, this is strongly opposed by many pro-democracy activists. While the pro-democracy view on China have largely improved due to alleged Chinese support towards anti-junta ethnic armed organisations, China's policy has equally dissatisfied or even angered pro-junta groups. ===Religion=== {{see also|Buddhism#Respect}} Buddhism is the largest religion in the country, followed by roughly 80-90% of the population. Many Burmese people are religious and fundamentalist Buddhism has seen growing support in the 21st century. As in neighbouring Thailand, monks collect alms in the morning and adhere to strict rules such as abstaining from physical contact with women and not touching money. It is customary for Burmese men to spend time living as a monk at least once in their lifetime. Donations to monks should be spontaneous and given in the form of food only, not money; monetary donations should be placed in donation boxes in temples. If you see a monk with money in his alms bowl, he is fake. Monks are not allowed to eat after noon, so if you see a monk going on alms round after noon, he is fake. Buddhist monks are highly respected, and it is essential to show them respect. Always ask for permission before taking a photograph or touching a monk. It is also important to behave appropriately in their presence. If you are on public transportation, it is customary to give up your seat for them as a sign of respect. Showing any form of disrespect to Buddhism is taken '''very seriously''' in Myanmar and you can expect to be treated with '''no degree of leniency''' if you've been accused of disrespecting Buddhism. Disrespecting Buddhism encompasses things like wearing something with Buddha on it, having a tattoo of Buddha, depicting Buddha in an inappropriate way, and so on. Foreigners have been jailed for disrespecting Buddhism, so be careful about what you say and what you do. Do not speak negatively about religion; it is illegal, under Burmese law, to "insult" religion. What counts as "insulting" religion is very broadly defined and open to interpretation. Refrain from engaging in religious discussions with the Burmese. Swastikas are commonly seen in Buddhist temples and '''should not''' be conflated with anti-Semitism and Nazism. ==Connect== === Telephone === Country Code: +95 International Call Prefix: 00 Phone numbers in Myanmar have the format <code>+95 1 234-5678</code> where "95" is the country code for Myanmar, the next one, two, three or four digits are the area code and the remaining 6, 7 or 8 digits are the "local" part of the subscriber number. You can buy GSM/4G sim cards at International airports or any convenience store. Standard sim card costs around 1500 Ks. Some operators may offer special sim for tourists. There are 4 mobile operators in Myanmar, MPT (Government+KDDI), Telenor, Ooredoo and MyTel (Military+VietTel). MPT in the largest in Myanmar in terms of network coverage and user. Operators offer similar price plans. Generally, standard plan offers voice calls for 20 Ks - 25Ks/min, SMS at 15 Ks - 20 Ks/message. Pay as you go data plan offers around 7 Ks/MB but specific data plan will offer around 1000 Ks/GB or cheaper. Prices for IDD and roaming service vary depending on the operators and destination countries. If you are going to use in urban area only for local call and data, there is not much difference between operators. If you are going to visit remote area, please check which operator is available at there. If you are going to use IDD or roaming, you may wisely choose by checking offering price at their websites. === Mail === International mail out of Myanmar is reportedly quite efficient, despite what some hotels might tell you. As elsewhere, there is always a risk if you send valuables as ordinary parcels. Use EMS for fast, and relatively cheap international parcels. === Internet === Country's telecommunication sector was revolutionized in 2013 and speed is steadily increasing and price become cheaper. As of 2020, free Wi-fi is available at almost every Hotels. Unlike other countries, Myanmar hugely rely on 4G Internet than cable or Wi-fi. Surprisingly, Yangon has 4th-fastest 4G speeds in East Asia despite the fact that it had slowest speeds in Asia before 2013. Seamless 4G Internet is available in every city, town and along major highway roads. Even a small village is likely to be covered with at least 3G Internet unless it is in highly remote or armed conflict area. Data costs are around 1000 kyat ($0.8)/GB. There are also cheaper fancy data plans depending on operators. MPT is largest mobile operator and Telenor is second. 4G sim cards are available at International airports and any convenience store. With the extended coverage of 4G and smart phones, once dominant Internet cafes are getting out of business and turn into gaming stations. In case of you need to access Internet urgently, you can use at those gaming stations but extensive file downloading is not welcome for it can effect their gaming experience. Facebook and Viber are the most used apps and services in Myanmar. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|22|96|zoom=5}} tqn7gf3m8dkzs6mi6kinv7ogs2cn9of 5091341 5091340 2025-07-11T10:43:55Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091341 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bagan (Myanmar) banner Sunset.jpg|caption=The temples of Bagan at dawn}} {{Warningbox| A nationwide state of emergency remains in force, with nighttime curfews enforced in many cities including Yangon. <!--- Mainland Chinese visitors should be extra careful due to hostility from protesters, and should avoid speaking Mandarin near protest venues.---> Avoid facilities and vehicles linked to security forces and military administration, monitor local media closely, and keep in regular contact with your embassy. Ethnic armed organisations are waging a large-scale offensive in [[Northern Myanmar|Northern]] and [[Eastern Myanmar]] from the Chinese-Myanmar border. Martial law is imposed in part of Shan State, and border crossings along the Chinese-Myanmar border are suspended. There are reports that the prices of many necessities is soaring. Many governments advise against all travel to Myanmar, though the main tourist circuit comprising of [[Yangon]], [[Mandalay]], [[Bagan]] and [[Inle Lake]] is far-removed from the violence and generally safe to visit — corroborated by the UK government's travel advice. A massive earthquake hit the area near Sagaing on 28th March 2025, and a state of emergency has been declared. The earthquake tremors could be felt as far as Hanoi, Vietnam. Many governments advise against all travel to Mandalay and nearby areas. |australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/myanmar |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/myanmar |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar |ie=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/myanmar-burma |sg=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/countries-regions/m/myanmar/travel-page |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/myanmar |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/burma-travel-advisory.html |lastedit=2025-03-31 }} '''Myanmar''' (မြန်မာ ''myanma''), or '''Burma''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]]. The country features awe-inspiring ancient temples, lively local markets, and captivating landscapes, such as unspoiled beaches, picturesque hills, and verdant forests. The genuine warmth of the Burmese people, combined with delectable cuisine, creates an ideal destination for gastronomes and culture aficionados alike. Since the 1960s, the country has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. For a considerable period, Myanmar has been afflicted with political instability, sectarian violence, corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and a prolonged history of colonial exploitation that paid scant attention to human development. == Regions == {{Regionlist | regionmap=Burma Regions Map.png | regionmapsize=425px | region1name=[[Southern Myanmar]] | region1items=''Ayeyarwady, Bago, Yangon'' | region1color=#CAA7C9 | region1description=The lowlands of the Irrawaddy Delta with the largest city and former capital Yangon. | region2name=[[Central Myanmar]] | region2items=''Magway, Mandalay, Naypyitaw'' | region2color=#E5B775 | region2description=Mandalay, historical and archaeological sites and cool hill towns. | region3name=[[Western Myanmar]] | region3items=''Rakhine, Chin'' | region3color=#A4C78A | region3description=Remote mountainous regions and some lovely beaches on the Bay of Bengal. | region4name=[[Northern Myanmar]] | region4items=''Sagaing, Kachin'' | region4color=#d17c82 | region4description=A huge, fractious region including the southern reaches of the Himalayas and many tribes. | region5name=[[Eastern Myanmar]] | region5items=''Shan, Kayah'' | region5color=#76AED2 | region5description=The infamous Golden Triangle and a bewildering number of ethnic groups. | region6name=[[Southeastern Myanmar]] | region6items=''Tanintharyi, Mon, Kayin'' | region6color=#DDE28E | region6description=The southern coastal stretch bordering Thailand with a vast number of offshore islands. }} == Cities == * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Naypyidaw]]|wikidata=Q37400}} (''formerly Pyinmana'') — newly designated capital of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]|wikidata=Q800122}} (''formerly Pegu'') — historic city near Yangon full of Buddhist sights * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kawthaung]]|wikidata=Q978611}} — beach town in the far south which is as much like Thailand as Myanmar gets * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mandalay]]|wikidata=Q185518}} — former capital of the Konbaung Dynasty built around the Mandalay Royal Palace and main commercial centre of Upper Myanmar * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mawlamyine]]|wikidata=Q685941}} (''Moulmein'') — capital of Mon State and the third largest city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pyin U Lwin]]|wikidata=Q1360318}} (''Maymyo'') — a cool town (in both temperature and attractions) which is a former British colonial hill station * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taunggyi]]|wikidata=Q1075566}} — capital of Shan State in the heart of the Golden Triangle * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Twante]]|wikidata=Q7857423}} — a delta town that is famous for pottery * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Yangon]]|wikidata=Q37995}} (''formerly Rangoon'') — the economic centre, known for its pagodas and colonial architecture == Other destinations == <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bagan]]|wikidata=Q29317}} — an archaeological zone with thousands of ancient pagodas near the banks of the Irrawaddy River, and a {{UNESCO}} * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Inle Lake]]|wikidata=Q1043461}} — a large shallow lake famous for boat trips, visiting floating villages inhabited by the Intha people, hiking, and also a source of excellent silk * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kengtung]]|wikidata=Q1027111}} — between [[Mong La]] (on the border with China) and [[Tachileik]] (on the border with Thailand) in the Golden Triangle, known for the ''Ann'' (black teeth people) and ''Akha'' tribes and trekking * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kyaiktiyo]]|wikidata=Q6450666}} — a gold-gilded rock sitting atop a cliff and a major pilgrimage site * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mount Popa]]|wikidata=Q1150764}} — an extinct volcano regarded as the Mount Olympus of Myanmar, a green oasis high above the hot plains and an easy day trip from Bagan * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mrauk U]]|wikidata=Q1951490}} — former capital of the Rakhine Kingdom, with many ancient pagodas that serve as a reminder of that era * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngapali]]|wikidata=Q19701446}} — beach resort in western [[Rakhine State]], on the Bay of Bengal * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngwe Saung]]|wikidata=Q7023181}} — longest stretch of beach in Ayeyarwaddy (English: Irrawaddy) Division, white sandy beach and crystal clear water are the features of Ngwe Saung Beach * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pyay]]|wikidata=Q691747}} — a town on the Irrawaddy River midway between Yangon and Bagan, known for its archaeological site ''Sri Kittara'', the ancient Pyu capital from 2 to 9 CE * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pathein]]|wikidata=Q870103}} — a river town in the Irrawaddy delta, known for manufacture of umbrellas, gateway to Chuang Tha and Ngwe Saung Beaches == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMyanmar.png}} === History === Like most of Southeast Asia's countries, Myanmar's people and history is a glorious mishmash of settlers and invaders from all fronts. The Mon and the Pyu are thought to have come from [[India]], while the now dominant Bamar (Burmese) migrated through [[Tibet]] and, by 849, had founded a powerful kingdom centred on [[Bagan]]. The ethnic diversity of the region, and the dominance of the Bamar people in the central plains, set up the geopolitical struggles between them and the multitude of smaller ethnic groups surrounding, which have continued unabated until the present day. From the 9th century to the 19th century, the Burmese empire grew through conquests of [[Thailand]] ([[Ayutthaya]]) and India ([[Manipur]]), and shrank under attacks from [[China]] and internal rebellions. [[File:Bago, Myanmar (Burma) - panoramio (44).jpg|thumb|Resting Buddha statue in Bago]] Eventually, [[United Kingdom|Britain]] conquered Burma over a period of 62 years (1824-1886) and incorporated it into its Indian Empire, and King Thibaw, the last Burmese monarch, was exiled to [[Ratnagiri]] in what is today [[India]]. Like in their other colonies, the British maintained control partly through a "divide and conquer" strategy, in which they deliberately stoked tensions between different ethnic and religious groups, resulting in ethnic and religious conflicts that have never been resolved. For example, bureaucrats were imported from India, and other government positions tended to be manned by locals from the smaller ethnic groups. Burma was administered as a province of India until 1937 when it became a separate colony. During the Second World War, Burma was a major battleground as the Allies fought the Japanese for dominance over Asia. The [[Burma Road]] was built to get supplies to China. The Thailand-Burma railway (the so-called "Death Railway") from [[Kanchanaburi]] in Thailand over the River Kwai to Burma was built by the Japanese using forced labour &mdash; Allied prisoners-of-war, indentured Thai labourers, Burmese people and other Southeast Asians. They had to work in appalling conditions and a great number of them died (estimated at 80,000) during construction of the railway. Large parts of Western Burma, particularly the hilly areas bordering India and the city of [[Mandalay]], were severely damaged during the war. Burmese independence fighters led by '''General Aung San''' cooperated with the Japanese to oust the British at first; the Japanese promised to grant independence to Burma in exchange. However, life under Japanese occupation was even more brutal than life under British colonialism, and many Burmese were killed, such as in the Kalagong massacre. Aung San subsequently switched allegiance and helped the allies win Burma back from the Japanese. Aung San subsequently led negotiations with the British for Burmese independence after the end of World War II, and the British agreed in 1947 to grant independence to Burma the following year, though Aung San himself was assassinated later in 1947 and never lived to see his dream come true. Independence from the British under the name '''Union of Burma''' was finally attained on 4 January 1948, and General Aung San is regarded by most Burmese people to be their father of independence. The new union brought together various states defined by ethnic identity, many of whom had centuries-long histories of autonomy from and struggles against each other. In the interest of securing their collective independence from Britain, the tribes reached an agreement to submit to collective governance—with power sharing among the ethnicities and states—for ten years, after which each tribe would be afforded the right to secede from the union. The terms of this "Pinlon Agreement" were enshrined in the 1947/1948 constitution of the new Union of Burma. The new central government of the nation quickly worked to consolidate its power, marginalising and angering tribal leaders and setting off ethnic armed conflict that has continued unabated until the present day. In 1961, more than 200 ethnic leaders from the Shan people, Kachin people, Red Karen, Karen people, Chin peoples, Mon people and Rakhine people met with ethnic Bamar (Burmese) central government authorities to draft a new form of government which would ensure the tribes both autonomy and self-determination within a federal system. [[File:Aung San Suu Kyi December 2011 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Aung San Suu Kyi]] The new government was never formed. Nevertheless, up until Ne Win's coup in 1962, Burma was regarded as one of the most developed and fastest growing economies in Asia, and widely touted as a contender to be the next Japan. Military leader General Ne Win led a coup d'état which ousted the democratically elected government in 1962, and installed himself as leader. General Ne Win dominated the government from 1962 to 1988, first as military ruler, then as self-appointed president, and later as political kingpin. Under Ne Win's rule, widespread corruption and nepotism led the Burmese economy into a downward spiral from which it has never fully recovered. Pro-democracy demonstrations in 1988 were violently crushed, with general Saw Maung taking over in a coup and installing the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) to rule the country, now renamed '''Myanmar'''. Multiparty legislative elections were held in 1990, with the main opposition party - the National League for Democracy (NLD) - winning a landslide victory (392 of 489 seats). But SLORC refused to hand over power, instead placing NLD leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi (daughter of national hero Aung San) under house arrest, which she has endured for 14 of the last 20 years. Today Myanmar, a resource-rich country, suffers from pervasive government controls, inefficient economic policies, and rural poverty. What was once one of the richest and most developed countries in Asia has since slumped into poverty due to widespread corruption. The junta took steps in the early 1990s to liberalise price controls after decades of failure under the "Burmese Way to Socialism," but had to reinstate subsidised prices on staples in the face of food riots, upon which the democracy movement grafted its agenda. The government called out troops and the rioters were defiant until the monks intervened: standing between both sides, they told everyone to go home and they did. The riots caused overseas development assistance to cease and the government subsequently nullified the results of the 1990 legislative elections. In response to the government's attack in May 2003 on Aung San Suu Kyi and her convoy, the [[USA]] imposed new economic sanctions against Myanmar, including bans on imports of products from Myanmar and on provision of financial services by US citizens. [[File:NLD Flag from car Yangon.png|thumb|A National League for Democracy supporter in Yangon]] The summer of 2007 was marked by demonstrations against the military government which were again brutally suppressed. The demonstrations started in August, apparently in an uncoordinated manner, as a protest against a stiff hike in the price of petrol, but morphed into a more serious challenge to the government after three monks were beaten at a protest march in the town of Pakokku. The monks demanded an apology but none was forthcoming and soon processions of monks with begging bowls held upside down filled many cities (including [[Sittwe]], [[Mandalay]] and [[Yangon]]). Yangon, particularly the area around Sule Pagoda in the downtown area, became the centre of these protests. While the monks marched, and many ordinary citizens came out in support of the monks, the world watched as pictures, videos, and blogs flooded the Internet. However, the government soon suppressed the protests by firing on crowds, arresting monks and closing monasteries, and temporarily shut down Internet communications with the rest of the world. This led the US, [[Australia]], [[Canada]] and the [[European Union]] to impose additional sanctions, some targeting the families and finances of the military leaders. [[File:Protesters against the military coup.jpg|thumb|Protesters demonstrating against the 2021 military coup]] Following elections in 2010, Burma began a process of liberalisation that has led to a reduction or removal of sanctions by many nations including the United States. In 2012, Aung San Suu Kyi was elected to the Burmese parliament and allowed to travel to Europe and North America. Censorship of foreign and local news was also suspended. In November 2015, Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won a landslide victory in the nationwide legislative elections and Htin Kyaw, a close ally of Aung San Suu Kyi, became president. In April 2016, Aung San Suu Kyi took office as State Counsellor, a post equivalent to prime minister, making her Myanmar's ''de facto'' head of government. In February 2021, the military once again took power in a coup d'état after a landslide victory by the NLD. Country-wide mass protests and a civil disobedience movement sprung up in the aftermath; protests were brutally crushed as the army killed hundreds of NLD supporters and democratic activists. Thousands of NLD and other pro-democracy politicians, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and community leaders were arrested. Peaceful protests still occur sporadically while other groups of protesters have taken up arms against the military regime, particularly in the border regions. Western countries have re-imposed economic sanctions on Myanmar as a result of the coup. As of mid-2024, the junta controls less than half of the area of the country, and Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) have been successfully mounting co-ordinated attacks with increasing confidence. However, this brutal civil war still has no end in sight. ===Culture=== Myanmar's culture is largely a result of Indian influences intertwined with local traditions and Chinese influences. This can be seen in the various stupas and temples throughout the country, which bear a distinct resemblance to those in northern India. As in neighbouring [[Thailand]], Theravada Buddhism is the single largest religion. 88% of the population follows these Buddhist practices, and even some of the most remote villages will have a temple for people to pray at. Other religions which exist in smaller numbers include Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Animism and ancestor worship can also be found around the country, especially in the more distant, hill tribe regions. One pre-Buddhist tradition that survives in Myanmar is the worship of the '''''Nats''''', or traditional Burmese spirits, and you will see many spirit houses throughout the country dedicated to their worship. Following the spread of Theravada Buddhism, the worship of the Nats was incorporated into Burmese Buddhism, and they are today regarded as subordinates of the Buddha. ===People=== [[File:Burmese people 01.jpg|thumb|Boys in Yangon with thanaka paste on their faces]] The dominant ethnic group in Myanmar is known as the Bamar, from which the original English name of the country, Burma, was derived. Besides the Bamar, Myanmar is also home to many minority ethnic groups and nationalities which have their own distinct cultures and languages. In addition to the native ethnic minorities, Myanmar is also home to ethnic Chinese and Indians whose ancestors migrated to Myanmar during the colonial period, most visible in the cities of Yangon and Mandalay. Myanmar is divided into fourteen administrative divisions, seven regions and seven states; generally speaking, the regions are Bamar-dominated, while the states are dominated by the respective ethnic minorities. The government has been condemned by other nations for violence against the Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, which borders Bangladesh. The government does not recognise them as citizens of Myanmar, but instead claims they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, a narrative embraced by the vast majority of Burmese despite the Rohingya's presence in Rakhine going back generations. Forced to flee to Bangladesh in large numbers, where they are also regarded as foreigners, many have lost their lives trying to seek refuge and work in Malaysia. Generally speaking, most Myanmar people are incredibly friendly and polite, and will do their best to make you feel welcome in their country. ===Politics=== Myanmar, officially the '''Republic of the Union of Myanmar''' (ပြည်ထောင်​စု သမ္မတ မြန်မာ​နိုင်​ငံတော်), is a presidential republic, with the president, who is appointed by the legislature, serving as both head of state and ''de jure'' head of government. He and his cabinet form the executive branch. The legislature is composed of the bicameral ''Pyidaungsu Hluttaw'' (Assembly of the Union), consisting of an upper ''Amyotha Hluttaw'' (House of Nationalities), and a lower ''Pyithu Hluttaw'' (House of Representatives). While a majority of the members of the legislature are popularly elected by the people, a quarter the seats are reserved for appointees from the military. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won a majority of seats in the 2015 election. As she is constitutionally barred from the presidency (by virtue of having married a foreigner), she instead served as the ''de facto'' head of government in the role of State Counsellor. As of February 2021, Myanmar is ruled by a military dictatorship. === Climate === Myanmar is considered to have 3 seasons. The hot season is usually from Mar–Apr. Temperatures then cool off during the rainy season from May–Oct. The peak tourism season is the cool season from Nov–Feb. Temperatures can climb as high as 36°C in Yangon in the hot season while in the cool season, noontime temperatures are usually a more bearable 32°C, with night temperatures falling to around 19°C. Mandalay is slightly cooler in the cool season, with temperatures falling as low as 13°C, while temperatures in the hot season can go as high as 37°C. Generally, Lower Myanmar, the area around Yangon, receives more rainfall than the drier Upper Myanmar (around Mandalay). In the highlands such as [[Inle Lake]] and [[Pyin U Lwin]], winter temperatures can fall below 10°C at night, while daytime temperatures tend to be very pleasant. Even in the summer, temperatures rarely climb above 32°C. Near the Indian border in [[Kachin State]], there are permanently snow-capped mountains. === Read === [[File:Haridaung-Mrauk U-Aussicht-06-Pagoden im Dunst-gje.jpg|thumb|View of Mrauk U]] * ''From the Land of the Green Ghosts'' by Pascal Khoo Thwe. A Cambridge-educated writer gives a touching account of his growing up as a Paduang-Hilltribe-Guyand in the difficult political environment before becoming a rebel. ({{ISBN|0007116829}}) * ''The Glass Palace'' by Amitav Ghosh. A novel that spans a century, from British conquest to the modern day. A compelling account of how a family adapted to the changing times; provides much insight into Burmese culture. * ''The River of Lost Footsteps'' by Thant Myint-U. Easily the most accessible history of Myanmar available. Read it before you go and you will marvel at how the once great and rich cities (like Martaban, Syriam, and [[Mrauk U|Mrauk-U]]) have become the dingy and smoky villages of today. ({{ISBN|0374163421}}) * ''The Trouser People'' by Andrew Marshall. The author follows in the footsteps of Victorian explorer, Sir George Scott. This book looks at lost British heritage as well as the Burmese tragedies occurring in the present. ({{ISBN|0140294457}}) * ''Finding George Orwell in Burma'' by Emma Larkin. The pseudonymous author, a journalist, posed as a tourist to travel around Myanmar in the early 2000s, before the government opened up the country to the world. She documents a country trapped in the past, attempts to distinguish sympathetic storytellers from police informants, and retraces Orwell's life in Myanmar, who went on to give the world the vocabulary to criticise the repressive police state which the country had since become. ({{ISBN|1594200521}}) * ''Burma Chronicles'' by Guy Delisle. A whimsical and humorous graphic novel about a family who moves to Yangon on assignment with an NGO in the mid-2000s. The protagonist, a stay-at-home dad, adapts to life in Burma with his infant son while his wife works long hours. An enjoyable and light read, this work does not dwell on human rights under the dictatorship, but rather focusses on the day-to-day life of the protagonist and the characters he meets. ({{ISBN|9781897299500}}) === Listen === * [https://insightmyanmar.org/ ''Insight Myanmar''] used to be a podcast about religion and spirituality, but it pivoted to providing news and interviews with experts following the military coup of February 2021. * ''[https://www.myanmarmusings.com/ Myanmar Musings]'' is the podcast of the [https://myanmar.anu.edu.au/ Myanmar Research Centre] at the Australian National University, Canberra. While much more academic than ''Insight Myanmar'', it still features interviews with a variety of experts on a range of historical and present-day topics relating to research on Myanmar. * [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-happening-in-myanmar/id1777519120 ''What's Happening in Myanmar''] is a news podcast that is useful for keeping up with the ever-changing political and military situation on the ground in Myanmar. === Holidays === * 4 January: Independence Day * January: Kayin New Year Day - 1st waxing of Pyatho * 12 February: Union Day * March: Full Moon Day of Tabaung * 27 March: Armed Forces Day * April: Thingyan (Burmese New Year) — the most important festival in Myanmar, in which people splash water at each other. Also known as the Water Festival, and similar to Songkran in neighbouring Thailand * May: Full Moon Day of Kason * July: Full Moon Day of Waso * October: Full Moon Day of Thadingyut * 19 July: Martyrs Day * November: National Day - 10 st waning of the moon of Tazaungmon * 25 December: Christmas Day === Units of measure === {{See also|Metric and Imperial equivalents}} Since 2013, Myanmar has begun adopting the '''metric system''' (SI), which is now used for weather reports, petrol prices, and speed limits, and ''new'' road signs. However, much usage of '''imperial system''' and the traditional '''Burmese units of measurement''' persist. Old road signs may use miles and miles per hour, and government websites inconsistently convert Burmese units to metric or Imperial. ===Tourist information === * [https://tourism.gov.mm/ Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website == Talk == {{see also|Burmese phrasebook}} [[File:Vendeurs de plantes médicinales vers Kyaiktiyo Paya.jpg|thumb|Burmese signs at a market]] The official language of Myanmar is '''[[Burmese phrasebook|Burmese]]''' (မြန်မာစကား ''mien ma za ga'') (known by the government as Myanmar), a Sino-Tibetan language related to Chinese and hence tonal (word pitch matters) and analytic (most words are one syllable long). It is written using the Burmese script, based on the ancient Pali script. Bilingual signs (English and Burmese) are available in most tourist spots. Numbers often are also written in Burmese script. Much vocabulary is derived from another ancient languages of Pali (at the time of Buddha) and [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]]. There are also many other ethnic groups in Myanmar such as the Mon, Shan, Pa-O, Rohingya and many others who continue to speak their own languages. While Burmese serves as the lingua franca in government-controlled areas, it may not be spoken at all in some separatist-controlled areas. There is also a sizeable ethnic Chinese community who speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] and/or various Chinese dialects. In Yangon, most of the Chinese are descendants from migrants from Fujian and Guangdong, and hence speak mainly [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]] or Taishanese, while in Mandalay, the Chinese are mostly descendants of migrants from Yunnan, and mainly speak the Yunnan dialect of Mandarin. Some areas are also home to various ethnic Indian communities who continue to speak various Indian languages. Myanmar is a former British colony and many Burmese understand at least some rudimentary English. Most well-educated upper class Burmese speak English fluently, while any educated Burmese will know at least the basics. Hotel and airline staff, as well as people working in the tourism industry generally speak a good level of English. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Myanmar.png|450px|thumbnail|right|Visa policy of Myanmar {{legend|#ED1C24|Myanmar}} {{legend|#22B14C|Visa free & eVisa}} {{legend|#FF7F27|eVisa (Business & Tourism)}} {{legend|#FFB583|eVisa (Business)}} {{legend|#FFC90D|eVisa (Tourism)}} {{legend|#ABABAB|Visa required in advance}}]] The visa situation in Myanmar is changing quickly and this has caused confusion even among immigration staff, and many guides and official websites are out of date. Check Wikipedia for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Myanmar visa policy]. ====Visa-free==== Citizens of the following countries may visit Myanmar without a visa for tourism provided they enter '''by air''', and their stay does not exceed the following number of days: *14 days: [[Brunei]], [[Cambodia]], [[Laos]], [[Philippines]], [[Thailand]] *30 days: [[Russia]], [[Vietnam]] Citizens of [[Singapore]] may visit Myanmar without a visa for up to 30 days regardless of mode of entry. These visa exemptions are strictly not extendable. All other travelers are required to apply for a visa in advance. ====E-Visa==== [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ E-Visa] are available for visitors from many countries, including most Western countries for US$50/tourist and US$70/business travelers (as of Jan 2020) through the [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ Myanmar Immigration's web-site], which take 3 days to process. However, there is also an express tourist e-Visa service available on the governments website for US$56 (rather than the standard US$50) taking 24 hr (though sometimes just a few hours). Check the e-Visa website for details on which nationalities this is available for. The visa is valid for 28 day for stays beginning up to 90 days from the date of issue, and is single entry only. In order to apply, you will need to upload a passport-sized colour photo, and payment which is only accepted by credit card. Permitted entry points are: Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, Nay Pyi Taw International Airport, and the longtail boat crossing from Ranong, Thailand at [[Kawthaung]] Tourist visas are valid for 3 months. The visa is valid for a stay of up to four weeks (from date of entry), although you can overstay if you are willing to pay a US$3 a day fee upon departure. Employment is ''not'' allowed on a tourist visa, and working runs you the risk of being arrested and deported. Successful applicants will also be issued an "Arrival Form", which will be stapled into your passport and must be presented on arrival in Myanmar, along with your passport containing the visa sticker. ====Visa on arrival==== As of October 2019, [http://www.mip.gov.mm/on-arrival-visa/ visas on arrival] are available for tourist and business visitors of some nationalities at Yangon, Mandalay and Naypyidaw airports. You must bring two passport-sized colour photos, and a letter of invitation from the company sponsoring your visa (for business visas). There is still some confusion at airports about this because official resources are not being updated to match changes but most tourists are not experiencing difficult- if you experience any insist you are eligible for a visa and ask for a senior staff member. Note: In August 2022 a directive from Myanmar to airline staff immediately (and inexplicably) suspended the Tourist Visa on Arrival for all nationalities. This has not been updated on government websites. Check well in advance at the check-in counter what the status is, and consider playing it safe with an e-visa. ====Visa at an embassy or consulate==== You can apply for all kinds of visas in a Myanmar embassy or consulate in many capitals and large cities around the world. See specific details like contacts, hours, etc. there&mdash;especially for [[Bangkok#Embassies|Bangkok]] and [[Chiang Mai#Consulates|Chiang Mai]] in Thailand, [[Delhi#Cope|Delhi]] in India, [[Hong Kong#Consulates|Hong Kong]] in China, and [[Washington, D.C.#Embassies|Washington D.C.]] in the US. Generally the visa application requires a completed visa form (available from the Myanmar embassy), a completed arrival form (again, from the embassy), a photocopy of the photo page from your passport, two passport-sized photos, proof of your occupation, and the applicable fee. === By plane === Myanmar's main international airport is located at '''[[Yangon]]''', the largest city and main economic centre. There are regular scheduled flights from Yangon to many major Asian cities. For travellers from outside the region, the easiest way to get into Myanmar will be to catch a flight from either [[Singapore]] or [[Bangkok]], both of which have large overseas Burmese populations, and are served by several daily flights into Yangon. Myanmar also has a second international airport at '''[[Mandalay]]''', which is served by several flights to the neighbouring countries. For a current list of airlines and destinations, see [https://www.yangonairport.aero/index.php/en/ Airport of Yangon]. The two main international airlines based out of Yangon are flag carrier '''[http://flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airines]''' and privately owned '''[http://www.maiair.com/ Myanmar Airways International]'''. ===By land=== Myanmar borders five countries: China, India, Bangladesh, Thailand and Laos. Foreigners are free to travel overland from Thailand into the Burmese heartland provided their Burmese visa is in order. Entering Myanmar from the other land border crossings, though, is a different story. At the very least, you must apply for special permits in advance, and you may need to join a guided tour in order for the permit to be granted. ====Thailand==== Four border crossings exist between Myanmar and [[Thailand]] at [[Tachileik]]/[[Mae Sai]], [[Myawaddy]]/[[Mae Sot]], [[Htee Kee]]/[[Ban Phunamron]] and the [[Three Pagoda Pass]]. The former three are open to foreigners, and there are no restrictions on foreigners travelling into the Burmese heartland from Myawaddy or Htee Kee. From Tachileik, travel beyond Keng Tung is not possible overland unless you are on a guided tour with a special permit. No visa-on-arrival is available though, so ensure that your Thai (if required) and Burmese visas are in order. ====China==== Foreigners can enter Myanmar at [[Muse (Myanmar)|Muse]] via [[Ruili]] (in [[Yunnan]]), although a permit (as well as a visa) and a guide are needed. You will most likely need to join an organized tour. Crossing in the opposite direction is more difficult to arrange and details are uncertain; however, it's possible to fly from [[Mandalay]] to [[Kunming]], and there's even a Chinese consulate that issues visas in Mandalay. ====India==== A land border crossing exists between [[India]] and Myanmar at Moreh/[[Tamu]] and is open to tourists who have vehicles and who are on foot or who have tours. As of 2023, Myanmar eVisas are ''not'' valid for entry at this border, so you'll need to get a visa in advance. This border is in politically unstable territory and there have been protests and two bomb blasts in the Indian town of Moreh (Oct 2019) which briefly closed the border. Tourists are generally advised not to loiter in Moreh, especially late at night- and to stay in Tamu on the Myanmar side if possible. It is no longer required to have a permit to visit the Indian state of [[Manipur]] which borders Myanmar. ====Laos==== The Myanmar-Laos Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River is the sole official border crossing between Myanmar and Laos. The bridge connects [[Shan State]] in Myanmar with [[Luang Namtha|Luang Namtha Province]] in [[Laos]], in a ''very'' remote region for both countries, and information on when (or whether) the crossing is operating is hard to find. As eVisas are not accepted for entry at this crossing, you'll need to get a visa in advance. ====Bangladesh==== It is not feasible to cross the border between Myanmar and [[Bangladesh]] independently. No border crossings exist between the two nations, and the Myanmar army has planted [[landmines]] along the frontier to discourage smugglers. ===By boat=== Small wooden longtail boats shuttle between [[Ranong]], [[Thailand]] and [[Kawthaung]], Myanmar. There is no fixed schedule; you just negotiate directly with one of the boat operators, and they will leave once a price is agreed on. Be sure to bargain hard or you might get ripped off. Boat operators may try you hustle you onto their boat before you find the immigration building to get stamped out; be firm and insist on going through immigration, or you will be considered to have left the country illegally. You will need to pay a US$10 or 500 Thai baht "stamping fee" to Myanmar immigration when entering or leaving via this checkpoint. If choosing to pay by U.S. dollars, be sure your bills are in pristine condition; even slight creases will cause your bills to be rejected. == Get around == Myanmar's infrastructure is in poor shape. Travel to certain regions is prohibited; for others, special permits must be obtained, and a guide/interpreter/minder may be mandatory - although whether these "guides" accompany you to look after you, or to keep you from going to places the government doesn't want you to see, is a question best discussed elsewhere. However, travel between the main tourist sites, namely Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon, is fairly straightforward. ===Restricted areas=== Much of Myanmar is closed to foreign travellers, and many land routes to far-flung areas are also closed (for example, to [[Mrauk U]], [[Kalewa]], [[Putao]], [[Kengtung]]). Due to longstanding ethnic conflicts, many ethnic minority areas are controlled by armed separatist groups and remain outside the control of the central government. Thus, while tourists can travel freely in the Bamar-majority Burmese heartland, travel tends to be restricted or circumscribed in ethnic minority areas. In theory, any tourist can apply for a permit to visit any restricted area or to travel on any restricted land route. In practice, it is unlikely that any such permit will be issued in a reasonable amount of time, or at all. Permit requests can be made locally in some cases (for example, requests for the land route to [[Kalewa]] can be made in [[Shwebo]]) but, in most cases, the request has to be made in [[Yangon]]. Requests to visit restricted areas must be made at the [http://myanmartravelsandtours.com/ MTT (Myanmar Travel and Tours)] office in Yangon (Number 77–91, Sule Pagoda Rd, Yangon). Applications for local permits can often be made at a local MTT office or at a police station. Local permits are available only for the following places & routes: *[[File:Pa-O women at restaurant stall, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Pa-O women at a restaurant stall]][[Kengtung]] - [[Tachilek]]. This used to be straightforward but the availability is now uncertain. *[[Mrauk U]] Chin/Zomi village tours. Easily available in Mrauk U, but must visit with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Myitkyina]] - [[Indawgyi Lake]]. Easily available in Myitkyina but must travel with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Shwebo]] - [[Kalewa]]. A permit is necessary if going by road. It is uncertain whether one is required if going by boat. *[[Pa-O Self-Administered Zone]] in [[Shan State]] (including the Kakku Pagodas). Available in [[Taunggyi]], but must be accompanied by a local Pa-O guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this. All other permits must be obtained in Yangon. Permits for some places, such as Putao, are obtainable but need to be applied for well in advance Myanmar is not [[North Korea]], and you are free to walk around, go to shops and interact with the locals. However, with many of the more far flung places, and places restricted to foreigners, it is better to arrange your internal visa in advance. Companies that can help with internal visas: *[http://www.mrmyanmartravel.com Mr Myanmar Travel] *[http://www.remoteasia.com Remote Asia Travel] *[http://www.travelmyanmar.com Travel Myanmar] ===By plane=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Sample fares between important destinations (through local tourist agency)''' ! From !! To !! Approximate fare |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || US$95 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || US$85 |- | [[Bagan]] || [[Heho]] || US$65 |- | [[Heho]] || [[Yangon]] || US$85 |} The poor state of Myanmar's roads and railways make flying by far the least uncomfortable option when travelling long distances. Flag carrier '''[https://www.flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airlines]''' operates a network of domestic flights to many destinations across Myanmar from its hub in Yangon International Airport. Long known for its poor safety record, it has improved dramatically with the purchase of newer aircraft, and these days compares favourably with many of the private airlines in terms of both service and safety. There are also several private airlines operating domestic flights from Yangon. The private airline companies are usually on time, and even depart early (10-20 min), so be on time and reconfirm your flight and flight time 1–2 days before departure. Sometimes the itinerary might be altered some days before departure (meaning that you will still fly to your final destination on the scheduled time, but with an added or removed in between stop, e.g., Yangon-Bagan becomes Yangon-Mandalay-Bagan). This usually only affects your arrival time. En route stops have only 10-20 min ground time, and if it is not your final destination, you can stay inside the plane during the stop. All domestic flight from Yangon depart from Terminal 3, while international flights depart from Terminals 1 & 2. When taking a taxi from downtown to the airport, mention to the driver that you are on a domestic flight so you'll not end up in the wrong terminal. ===By train=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Train travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Ordinary || Upper || Sleeper |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 16 hr || 4,600&nbsp;kyat || 9,300&nbsp;kyat || 13,000&nbsp;kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 6 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,500&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 4 hr || 550&nbsp;kyat || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 7 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,750&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Lashio]] || 16 hr || 1,900&nbsp;kyat || 4,400&nbsp;kyat || None |} Myanmar has an extensive rail network, a relic of British rule. Unfortunately, there has been little maintenance or growth since the British left. Trains are slow, noisy, uncomfortable, and prone to delays. Electrical blackouts are becoming rare but nonetheless never assume that air conditioners, fans or the electrical supply itself will be working throughout the whole journey. Most trains have upper class and ordinary class. Ordinary class has wide open windows, benches and can be packed with locals transporting their goods. Upper class has upholstered chairs, fans and is less crowded. Be careful putting your head out of the window as it is likely to be hit by a branch. Vegetation grows so close to the tracks that you can reach out and touch it. Tickets are cheap and tourists pay the same price as locals, but tourists cannot buy tickets on the train. At smaller stations, you may have to seek the stationmaster or use an interpreter to buy a ticket. Your passport is required when purchasing. [[File:Gokteik Viaduct, Southbound.jpg|thumb|The famous Gokteik Viaduct dates from 1899]] A journey on a train is a great way to see the country and meet people. The rail journey from [[Mandalay]], up hairpin bends to [[Pyin U Lwin]], and then across the mountains and the famous bridge at Gokteik, is one of the great railway journeys of the world. Trains in lower Mandalay, Yangon-Pathein and Yangon-Mawlymaing, are little communities of their own with hawkers selling everything imaginable. Sleepers are available on many overnight express trains, although in the high season you may want to reserve a few days in advance. Tickets go on sale three days in advance. At some stations there is a separate counter for advance bookings, or even a separate building (e.g., in Yangon). Food service is available on the express in both directions between Yangon and Mandalay. Except for the new bridge and rail line that connects [[Mawlamyine]] to points on the west side of the Salween River, the rail network is exactly the way it was in British times. The most-used line is the 325km line from Yangon to Mandalay with several trains a day. It is the only double line in Myanmar, and also the only one that is competitive in time with buses. The fastest trains take 15 hr for the 385km run, an effective rate of 25km/hour. A second line connects Yangon with Pyay, 9 hr for the 175&nbsp;km journey, with a branch heading off into the delta region town of Pathein. These tracks, the earliest constructed, are in poor shape. With the construction of the bridge across the Salween, it is now possible to go by train from Yangon to Mawlamyine, 8 hr for the 200km journey, and on to Ye and Dawei. From Mandalay, trains continue on to Myitkyina in Kachin State, 350km in 24 hr, and to Lashio. There are also rail connections between Yangon-Bagan and Mandalay-Bagan, but bus or ferry are better alternatives: the 175km from Mandalay to Bagan takes 10 hours. There is railway service between Yangon-Bagan. 16 hr, first class US$30, upper class US$40, sleeper US$50. (check new prices) Train tickets cannot be paid in dollars any more, and the government has abandoned the former dual-pricing structure that saw tourists pay inflated prices. === By boat === There is also a large river ferry network. Both are to a large extent run by the government, although there are now some private ferry services. The trip from Mandalay to Bagan takes the better part of a day, from Bagan to Yangon is several days. === By bus === {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ ''' Bus travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 11 hr || 10,400 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || 10 hr || 12,000 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 4 hr || 6,000 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 2 hr || 1,500 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 5.5 hr || 4,500 |} Buses of all types ply the roads of Myanmar. Luxury (relatively speaking) buses do the Mandalay-Yangon run while lesser vehicles can get travellers to other places. Fares are reasonable and in kyat and buses are faster than the trains. Many long-distance buses assign seats, so it is best to book seats at least a day in advance. Because the roads are bad, avoid the rear of the bus and try to sit as far up front as you can. Long-distance buses also have an extra jump seat that blocks the aisle and, because it is not well secured to the chassis, can be uncomfortable (which also means that there is no such thing as a side seat where taller people can stretch their legs). A window near the front of the bus is always the best option. Even budget travellers will find themselves buying more tickets via their hotel or an agency rather than going to the bus company to buy it directly. Their offices are often located far from any tourist place and the cost of going there and back will most likely exceed the commission your hotel will get for selling you the ticket. Shop around and compare prices before buying your ticket as some vendors include a free pick-up from your hotel. A bus ticket scam seems to be popular in Yangon. While many make a stopover in Bago, they are told at their guesthouse or at the bus station it's not possible to buy tickets there in the direction to Mandalay. In a country where everything might be possible when it comes to transport, some people fall for this. Actually, this is not the case and tracking back to Yangon for a bus ticket up north is not necessary at all. Bago has a bus terminal with several bus offices. Buying your ticket at Bago might be slightly cheaper (depending upon your bargaining skills) and gives you more freedom for the rest of your journey. The adjoining table summarises travel times and approximate fares between important tourist destinations in Myanmar. Most bus fares have gone up with the fuel price rises, so the fares listed are rough estimates. === By pick-up === Old pick-up trucks run everywhere in Myanmar, cheaply ferrying men, women, children, and monks from one place to another. The rear of the truck is converted into a canvas-covered sitting area with three benches, one on each side and one running along the centre of the truck (some smaller trucks have only two rows), and the running board is lowered and fixed into place providing room for six or more people to stand on (holding on to the truck frame). Pick-ups are ubiquitous in Myanmar and every town has a central point somewhere from where they depart to places both near and far. Tourists who go off the beaten track will find them indispensable because often the only alternative is an expensive taxi or private car. The basics of pickups are fairly straightforward, wait till it is reasonably full before heading out. On well-travelled routes (Mandalay-Pyin U Lwin, for example), they fill up quickly and the journey is quick. On less well-travelled routes ([[Bhamo]]-[[Katha]], for example), passengers arrive (early, usually around 06:00), mark their place, and then hang around drinking tea and chatting until the truck fills up. When the pick-up does get moving, it may linger or go out of its way in the hope of picking up more passengers. The inside of a pick-up can be hot and uncomfortable. Passengers, packed in like sardines, face away from the windows (which are tiny) and into the truck. Standing on the running board can be tiring and tough on the arms. The window side seat next to the driver is very comfortable and well-worth the little extra that you have to pay, so it is best to go early and reserve that seat. === By car === [[File:20160729 traffic in Mandalay 5761.jpg|thumb|Busy street in Mandalay]] You can hire a private car and driver at reasonable rates to tour independently. The licensed guides at Shwedagon Paya in Yangon can arrange to have a driver with a car meet you at your hotel. Another way is to arrange for a car through a travel agency, though it can be quite expensive. You can "test" the driver and the car by driving around the city for 10 or 15 minutes. If you are satisfied, a departure date and time and per diem rates (inclusive of petrol) can be negotiated. Some guides are willing to travel with you to serve as interpreters. Traffic drives on the '''right''' in Myanmar, but confusingly, Myanmar has a mixture of left- and right-hand-drive cars, with the majority of vehicles being right-hand-drive as a result of being second-hand imports from Japan or Thailand. Road travel to tourist destinations is generally safe, although some roads may be rough. Highways are often 2-lane, and cars often pass one another recklessly. That being said, driving habits are not quite as aggressive as say, [[Vietnam]]. Allow two days to drive from Yangon to Bagan in fair weather. Pyay is a good stopover point. Allow a day to drive from Bagan to Inle Lake. In cities, it is considered illegal to cross an amber light without stopping. Despite having crossed 3/4 of the way, you will be required to stop in the middle of the road and make your way back in reverse! Accidents and fatalities are common. Night-time road travel is not recommended, and medical facilities are limited in rural areas. At government hospitals, bribes may be required for services. Make sure needles are new or carry your own. HIV is a major problem in Myanmar. ===By taxi=== All taxis (and by extension all vehicles for transport of people and goods) have red/white licence plates, while private vehicles have a black/white licence plate. Tourist agency-owned cars have a blue/white licence plate. ===By ride-hailing=== The main ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/mm/en/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former South-east Asian operations, including that of Myanmar. Uber's short-lived venture into Myanmar occurred just one year prior to its takeover by Grab. In common with Grab's operations elsewhere in Southeast Asia, cash is not required as you can use the Grab app to pay with your card, though cash remains readily accepted. === By motorbike === In Yangon, riding motorcycles is illegal. Mandalay's streets, on the other hand, are filled with them. === By bicycle === In many places you can easily rent a bicycle for about 1,500 kyat per day to move around in your own pace. Around Inle Lake, cycling is a relaxing way to get to the next village or lake viewpoint. Mandalay is laid out on a grid which makes it very easy to navigate while cycling. Tourists used to pedal bicycles around the sights of Bagan, across difficult sandy paths under the hot sun, however electric bicycles are now the norm. At around ten times the price of a conventional bicycle, they are well worth the money. === On foot === Cars and pedestrians may not follow the established rules, and crossing the road can be difficult. Drivers will almost never yield to pedestrians, even on striped pedestrian crossings. ==See== [[File:InleRowing.jpg|300px|thumb|Leg rowing, Inle Lake]] Myanmar has not been a popular destination in Southeast Asia as visitors have been largely deterred by the country's volatile politics and restrictions placed on travel. But the political and travel situation has been improving notably since 2015. The country is a true, unspoiled treasure trove, and should capture the imagination of anyone interested in culture and history. Walking around [[Yangon]] brings you back to the time of 19th-century British colonial rule. Sparkling-clean parks and temples stand side by side decayed colonial-style buildings and deep potholes. Its cultural and religious attractions, like the '''Shwedagon Pagoda''', add to the city's feel of exoticism, as do the smiles of the locals. Every street corner brings something new—and a short ferry over the river even gives you a glimpse of rural life in the country. Cities of cultural and historical interest close to Yangon are [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] with its Buddhist sights, the delta town of [[Twante]] known for its pottery, and the pilgrimage site of [[Kyaiktiyo]] with its gold-gilded rock balancing precariously over a cliff. It's definitely worth it to further explore the Bamar heartland. Unfortunately some outer fringes of the country are off-limits to foreigners, but it's always worth checking the latest situation with people on the ground as things move so fast that the Internet rarely if ever has correct information. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703742020).jpg|thumb|Pyin U Lwin]] The former city of [[Bagan]] is a gem, and gives a glimpse of what life in the 11th and 12th centuries here must have been like. Marco Polo described it as the "gilded city alive with tinkling bells and the swishing sounds of monks' robes". It is the largest and densest concentration of Buddhist temples, pagodas, stupas and ruins in the world. [[Mrauk U]] is a sleepy village today but its crumbling pagodas and temples remind of the early modern period, when it was the capital city of an empire involved in extensive maritime trade with Portuguese, Dutch, French and Arab traders. Within a daytrip from [[Mandalay]] is [[Inwa]], another former capital where ruins remain to remind visitors of its former glory. Also don't miss [[Pyin U Lwin]], a former British hill station with somewhat cooler temperatures. The country has its fair share of '''natural attractions'''. [[Inle Lake]] is popular with backpackers, and it is one of the few places that is starting to feel like a tourist trap. Still, a trip to Myanmar is not complete without a boat trip on the lake. It has a unique vibe with tribes living in stilt houses and paddling their traditional wooden boats with one leg. The country's long southwestern coastline also has a few '''beaches''', such as [[Chaung Tha]] and [[Ngapali]]. If you visit outside of the traditional holiday season, you might just have a beautiful white sand beach for yourself. Myanmar is a country inhabited with dozens of ethnic groups, but sites from the major '''independent Burmese kingdoms''' dating from the 9th century can be seen in sections of the country. ==Do== [[File:Chinlone Burma.jpg|thumb|Burmese men playing chinlone]] Myanmar is an excellent country for '''trekking'''. [[Kalaw]] is a centre for trekking, and has miles and miles of trails through mountains and hill tribe villages. [[Kengtung]] is also known for its hiking paths to hill tribe villages, while [[Hsipaw]] has some great treks to waterfalls. '''Birdwatching''' can be done around [[Inle Lake]]. Myanmar's national sport is '''chinlone''', played with a small rattan ball. The objective of the game is to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible without using one's arms or hands, and to do it as beautifully as possible. Spectacular '''scuba diving''' and unspoiled beaches abound in the Mergui Archipelago in [[southeastern Myanmar]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Myanmar kyat (official rates) | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;kyat | date=January 2025 | USD=2,100 | EUR=2,500 | GBP=2,600 | CNY=285 | INR=25 | THB=605 | SGD=1,530 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mmk-burmese-kyat xe.com]}} {{infobox|Currency Games |Myanmar is still predominantly a cash economy. However, ATMs are widespread. In a misguided attempt to fight rampant black marketeering, the Myanmar government has a habit of ''declaring notes to be worthless'': this happened first in 1964. In 1985, the 20, 50, and 100 kyat notes were withdrawn again and replaced with new kyat notes in the unusual denominations of 25, 35, and 75, possibly chosen because of dictator general Ne Win's predilection for numerology; the 75-kyat note was introduced on his 75th birthday. In 1987, the government demonetized the 25, 35, and 75 kyat notes with no prior warning, rendering some 75% of the country's currency worthless. A new series of 15, 45, and 90-kyat notes was issued, incorporating Ne Win's favourite number 9. The resulting economic disturbances led to serious riots and eventually the 1989 coup by General Saw Maung. The post-coup notes come in more normal denominations from 1–1,000 kyat, and this time the old ones remain legal tender, so far.}} Myanmar's currency is the '''kyat''', pronounced "chat". Prices may be shown locally using the abbreviation of '''K''' (singular or plural) or '''Ks''' (plural) either before or after the amount and depending very much on who is doing the sign writing. The ISO abbreviation is '''MMK'''. Wikivoyage articles will use ''kyat'' to denote the currency. ''Pya'' are coins, and are rarely seen since their value has become increasingly insignificant with even the largest 50 pya coin worth less than US$0.001. Banknotes of Myanmar are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 kyats. You may also come across 20, 10, 5, and 1 ''kyat'' and 50 ''pya'' banknotes. They are valid but rarely found and best held onto as souvenirs. Older banknotes in strange denominations are sold to tourists and, while typically genuine, are rarely if ever valuable. The notes of 50 kyat, 100 kyat, 200 kyat, and 500 kyat are usually in a horrible condition, but are generally accepted when making small purchases. The 1,000 kyat notes are slightly better. 5,000 and 10,000 kyat notes always appear new after exchanging foreign currencies. When exchanging money, check that the banknotes you receive are in a generally good condition. If the exchange gives you kyat notes in horrible condition, you can ask them to exchange them for notes in better condition. Dispose of remaining kyat before leaving. Outside of Myanmar, kyat is almost worthless but do make nice souvenirs. Kyat cannot be legally exchanged abroad, though some money changers in places with large overseas Burmese populations such as [[Singapore]] will exchange anyway, but at terrible rates. Kyat can be exchanged on departure from Yangon Airport at decent rates. ====US dollars==== {{infobox|Is it safe?|So, you're travelling around carrying hundreds, if not thousands, of U.S. dollars stuffed into your pockets in a country where most people subsist on a few dollars a day. Everyone around you knows that if they could get their hands on the money in your pockets, they will be rich for life. What, you may ask, are the odds that someone will try to relieve you of your money? The answer: almost nil. There have been very few instances of a tourist being mugged and only the rare cases of pilfering. Myanmar is an extremely safe country for travellers. Some say it is because of the nature of the people. Others say it is because the punishment for robbing from a foreigner is draconian, whilst others say it is because of Buddhism, which prohibits people from taking what is not given.}} Foreigners are no longer required to pay in U.S. dollars for hotels, tourist attractions, rail and air tickets, ferry travel and for bus tickets. As of 2015, foreign currency instability and the weakening kyat means that many venues will state prices in U.S. dollars, even though it is illegal to do so. Expat restaurants still often quote in U.S. dollars despite actions from the Central Bank prohibiting excess dollar usage. It is illegal for a Myanmar citizen to accept (or hold) U.S. dollars without a licence, but this law is mostly ignored and U.S. dollars are generally accepted. Never insist, though, because it may be dangerous for the receiver. Bring very clean, unfolded U.S. dollars (or they will not be accepted by hotels, restaurants and money changers). Even small imperfections can be cause to reject a U.S. banknote. Keep all U.S. dollars in impeccable condition, and do not fold them. If you do end up with a few, try using them for purchases rather than exchange, or try to exchange them in a few different places. ====ATMs==== There are plenty of ATMs all across the country accepting international Visa and MasterCard. The bigger and more touristic the place the more ATMs it has. Smaller tourist destinations also have ATMs (Bagu, Hpa-An, etc.), but not so many. Make sure to carry a buffer outside of major tourist hotspots. If an ATM does not work, try the next one. Usual withdrawal limit is 300,000 kyat with a processing fee of 5,000 kyat. In case you run out of money, ask your taxi driver to drive you to the CB Bank ATM. '''Note''': Your bank may refuse to process ATM transactions with some/all banks in Myanmar, even if the ATM accepts Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank prior to entering the country. ====Credit cards==== Upmarket tourist places (hotels, agencies, restaurants) are accepting credit cards (and will surcharge accordingly). So you can even pay with mastercard in a store in the middle of Inle Lake for purchases value more than US$100. But nonetheless paper money is the only way to pay in most places. Beside the ATMs, there are places (e.g. hotels in Yangon) where cash can be obtained with a credit card (''cash advance''), but the rates are extremely uncompetitive (with premiums certainly no lower than around 7%, and with quotes of 30% and more frequently reported). Also, they may need to see your passport to process the transaction. For US citizens, it is also possible to receive funds from friends or relatives in an emergencies through the US Embassy. ====Money exchange==== The foreign currency of choice in Myanmar is the US dollar, though you can readily also exchange euros and Singapore dollars in Yangon and Mandalay, but perhaps not beyond. Other options are the Chinese Yuan and Thai Baht. The best rates are in Yangon and Mandalay. Major foreign currencies need to be in good condition—other currencies like rupees and baht are often accepted even if worn out. The military junta re-imposed currency controls in 2021, again leading to a yawning gap between the official rate (fixed at 2100 kyat/dollar) and the black market rate, which ranged from 3,400 to 5,600/dollar in 2024. Banks and money changers only sell kyat at the official rate. Exchanging on the '''black market is illegal''': sellers risking jail time and the junta periodically cracks down. Especially on holidays and Sundays, all your necessary money should be changed at the airport as banks in town are closed. Money changers offer significantly lower rates (5-10% lower) for changing US dollars and euros. The most hassle-free option is to change all your required money at the airport, depending on the rate to change it back. Look around different banks for the best exchange rate. Be sure to bring a mix of foreign denominations when visiting Myanmar because money changers will sometimes not give change and smaller notes (in good condition) are useful for some entry fees and transport. Even though, larger bills give the best exchange rates at banks. Ensure that foreign notes are: * Unmarked – No stamps, anti-counterfeit pen, ink or any other mark on them at all. Pencil can be removed with a good eraser, but any permanent marks will greatly decrease a note's value and ability to be exchanged. * Fresh, crisp and as close to brand new as possible – Moneychangers have been known to reject notes just for being creased and/or lightly worn. * Undamaged – No tears, missing bits and pieces, holes, repairs or anything of that sort. * Preferably of the new design, with the larger portrait, and the multiple-colour prints. Although, old-style US$1 are still commonly traded. * For US$100 bills, have no serial numbers starting "CB". This is because they are associated with a counterfeit "superbill" which was in circulation some time ago. '''Scams''': * There are a number of tricks and scams running around Myanmar trapping tourists who are carrying US dollars. Sometimes, guesthouses or traders will try and pass you damaged or nonexchangeable bills in change. Always inspect all notes when making a purchase and request that the vendor swap any notes you think you will have trouble using down the track—this is perfectly acceptable behaviour for both vendors and customers, so don't be shy. * Some money changers will also attempt sleight of hand tricks to either swap your good banknotes for damaged, or lower denomination notes. Other reports suggest that the kyats may be counted and then somehow, some disappear from the table during the transaction. For example, after going through an elaborate counting process for piles of ten 1,000 kyat notes, some money changers will pull some notes out as they count the piles of ten. * When changing money, be sure that, after any money is counted, it is not touched by anyone until the deal is sealed. Also do not allow your dollars or major foreign currencies to be removed from your sight until all is agreed; in fact, it is not even necessary to pull out your US dollars until your are paying for the kyats you received. It sounds extreme, but ending up in a country where you cannot access whatever savings you have, and having a good portion of your budget rendered useless (until you get to more relaxed changers in Bangkok) can really put a dampener on your plans. ====Travellers cheques==== Travellers cheques are '''not accepted''' in Myanmar. The only exception might be some especially shady money changer, but be prepared to pay an astronomical commission (30% is not uncommon). ===Shopping=== When visiting tourist attractions, you will likely be swarmed by local hawkers, many of them children, trying to sell you souvenirs. Be sure to [[Bargaining|bargain]] hard should you decide to buy from them. Owing to decades of repressive military rule, a great many service and travel-oriented companies have strong links to the military. These are vital ways for the military to earn money, particularly foreign currency. If you wish to avoid spending money at military-owned or military-associated businesses, download the [https://waywaynay.com/ Way Way Nay Boycott app]. ====Tipping==== Tipping is generally not practised by the Burmese themselves. However, given widespread poverty in the country, tips are certainly appreciated if you have been provided with exemplary service. Tips that are charged to a credit card almost never make it to the service staff, so if you wish to tip, make sure you hand it over in cash to the person who served you. ====Costs==== Despite being less developed, Myanmar is expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or Vietnam. This is particularly true of hotel prices in the main tourists areas, as demand far outstrips supply. Similarly, the lack of competition from budget airlines has also made domestic flights rather expensive. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703766279).jpg|thumb|Night market in Pyin U Lwin]] It's not possible to be comfortable on less than US$25/day (May 2013). Foreigners will likely be charged fees, including video camera, camera, entrance, parking and zone fees. Most managed tourist site charge for carrying cameras of any sort into the area. Double rooms with private bathroom are nearly always more than US$20, in Yangon a double room without bathroom costs US$20. Dorm beds are around US$10 (or US$8 if you accept to lose a lot of value) (Sep 2015). While you cannot save on accommodation, you can save on food. Street food can get as low as US$0.30 for 2 small curries with 2 Indian breads, US$1 for a normal (vegetarian) dish. Even in touristy places like Bagan dishes cost under US$1 (vegetarian) and US$2 (meat). A draught Myanmar beer (5%) is around 600 kyat, a bottle of Myanmar beer (650 ml) is around 1,700 kyat, a bottle of Mandalay beer (6.5%, 650 ml) around 1,200 kyat. ====What to buy==== * '''Antiques''' – Purchasing antiquities and antiques in Myanmar is at best a legal grey area with the 2015 passage of the new Antiquities Law, and often illegal for any item over 100 years old. Penalties include prison and fines. It is recommended to avoid purchasing antiques as a tourist, unless you're willing to get an export permit from the Ministry of Culture on your way out and you have enough knowledge to avoid the fakes. Replicas and fakes are rife in Bogyoke market and other anitque stores frequented by tourists. It is against the law to export religious antiques (manuscripts, Buddhas, etc.) * '''Art''' – The Myanmar Art market has exploded, with local artists' works going for good values in Yangon and Mandalay. Visit the numerous galleries in Yangon to get a feel for available works. Art is often related to Buddhism and the difficult socio-political situation, as well as more traditional Victorian-influenced subjects like markets, old women smoking cigars, tribal members, and monks. There is a lot of cheap/mass-painted and derivative works at Bogyoke Market. * '''[[Gemstones]]''' – Myanmar is best known as for its [[jade]] and [[rubies]] (the granting of a license to the French over the ruby mines in [[Mogok]] was one of the causes leading to the Third Burmese War), and also produces some really fine [[sapphires]]. These can be obtained at a fraction of what it would cost in the West. There are a lot of fakes for sale amid the genuine stuff and, unless you know your gems, buy from an official government store or risk being cheated. Bogoyoke Aung San Market and the Myanmar Gems Museum in [[Yangon]] has many licensed shops and is generally a safe place for the purchase of these stones. The jade market in [[Mandalay]] is also worth a visit, where most of the jade is brought from the mines to be sold to merchants, and you can observe merchants haggling over the prices of both raw jade and various jade items in all stages of the production process. You can also purchase some jade trinkets yourself, but be prepared to haggle, and make sure you do your homework before buying or you risk getting ripped off. * '''Lacquerware''' – A popular purchase, which is made into bowls, cups, vases, tables and various items, and is available almost anywhere. The traditional centre of lacquerware production is [[Bagan]] in [[Central Myanmar]], and most tours include a stop at one of the local lacquerware factories where you can purchase one of these. Beware of fraudulent lacquer ware, though, which is poorly made, but looks authentic. As a guide, the stiffer the lacquer, the poorer the quality; the more you can bend and twist it, the finer the quality. * '''Tapestries''' – Known as ''kalaga'', or ''shwe chi doe''. There is a long tradition of weaving tapestries in Burma. These are decorated with gold and silver thread and sequins and usually depict tales from the Buddhist scriptures (the ''jatakas'') or other non-secular objects from Burmese Buddhism (mythical animals, the ''hintha'', and the ''kalong'' are also popular subjects). The tapestry tradition is dying out but many are made for tourists and are available in Mandalay and Yangon. Burmese tapestries don't last long, so be warned if someone tries to sell you an antique ''shwe chi doe''! * '''Textiles''' – Textiles in Myanmar are stunning. Each region and each ethnic group has its own style. Chin fabrics are particularly stunning. They are handwoven in intricate geometric patterns, often in deep reds and mossy greens and white. They can be quite pricey, perhaps US$20 for the cloth to make a longyi (sarong). ==Eat== [[File:Outdoor café, Yangon, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Outdoor café in Yangon]] Burmese food is influenced by that of India and China, yet unique. Apart from Burmese food, other ethnic traditional foods such as Shan food, Rakhine food, and Myeik food are also distinct. Rice is at the core of Burmese food, and good vegetarian food is widely available. Burmese food is often extremely pungent. Similar to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, '''fish sauce''' (ငံပြာရည် ''ngan bya yay'') is a very popular condiment in Myanmar, and is used to flavour many dishes. Food is inexpensive at most restaurants (priced at 500–3,000 kyat per item at most local restaurants, but can go as high as 8,000 kyat at posh restaurants). There are many up-market restaurants in Yangon and Mandalay. The majority of low-to-mid-priced restaurants use a cheap blend of palm oil for cooking. This oil may be unhealthy, and common roadside restaurants should be avoided if you are at the slightest risk for hypertension, heart disease, or other fat- or cholesterol-related conditions. Higher class restaurants may use peanut oil instead. Specific dishes include: [[File:Chapati and mutton curry.JPG|thumb|Chapati and mutton curry]] * '''Curry''' &ndash; Burmese people have a very different definition of curry than other countries. It is very spicy compared to Indian and Thai options, and although you may find it served at room temperature in cheaper restaurants, in a typical Burmese home all curry dishes are served hot. Burmese curry does not contain coconut milk, unlike its other SE Asian counterparts, and has a large quantity of onion or tomato depending on region and cook's preference. Myanmar is the highest per-capita consumer of onions in the world. Quite often Burmese curries are cooked with lots of oil, much more than other regional curries. * '''Samosa thoke''' (samosa salad) &ndash; A popular street dish of chickpeas, potatoes, tomato, cabbage, mint and a smashed samosa. * '''Mohinga''' (pronounced ''mo-HIN-ga'') &ndash; A dish of rice vermicelli with fish chowder, usually accompanied by coriander and chili powder. Its taste can range from sweet to spicy, and is usually eaten at breakfast. It is considered by many to be the national dish, and is widely available throughout the country, albeit in different styles in different regions. * '''Mote lin-mayar''' (Couples snacks) &ndash; Small tiny pancakes with chives, chickpeas or quail eggs. * '''Sticky rice''' &ndash; Served plain or with turmeric or black rice * '''Nan Gyi Thoke''' (pronounced ''nan gyi thou'') &ndash; A special dish of rice noodle salad with chicken sauce. It is mostly eaten in mid-Myanmar. * '''Onnokauswe''' (pronounced ''oun-NO-kao-sui'') &ndash; A dish of thicker noodles in a thick soup of coconut milk with chicken. It is served with a variety of condiments accompanying it, ranging from fried fruit fritters to solidified duck blood. "Khao soi"("noodle" in Shan), often found on the streets of Chiang Mai, is derived from this Burmese counterpart. It is also comparable to the spicier laksa often found in peninsular SE countries like Malaysia and Singapore. * '''Shan food''' &ndash; The Shan are an ethnic group who inhabit Shan State around Inle lake, near the Thai border. Their food is marvelous. It can be found in Yangon easily. :* '''Shan tofu''' &ndash; Made with mung beans instead of soya beans these yellow blocks are served fried or in a cold noodle salad. :* '''Laphet thote''' (pronounced ''la-peh THOU'') &ndash; A salad of fermented tea leaves and a variety of fried nuts. It is commonly mixed with sliced lettuce, and is eaten with rice. * '''Chinese food''' &ndash; Available in most cities and usually authentic, if plain. * '''Kachin food''' &ndash; Mainly available in Kachin State, though a number of Kachin restaurants can be found in Yangon and Mandalay. Kachin food is less oily and uses less MSG than Burmese food, and you may find it a good alternative if Burmese curries are not to your liking. == Drink == '''Tap water''' in Myanmar is not safe to drink, however factory-made ice in restaurants and other shops is OK. '''Bottled water''' is readily available. You can also safely drink from the many clay jars dotted around the country, or find safe drinking water in temples. Just look for the large steel tanks with cups tied to the spigots. Water in the clay jars is filtered and many Myanmar people use them. Owners of the jars fill them up with water as a way to make merit. Similar to Chinese tea, ''Yenwejan'' is usually provided free at restaurant tables. While not flavourful, it is boiled water, and so safe to drink (do not drink plain water - even in restaurants - unless it is bottled water). Dried tea leaves similar to Laphet thote's tea leaves (except these are wet) are added to the boiled water to give ''Yenwejan''. Be sure to order it with ''Laphet thote'' (customary/good combination). '''Milk tea''' (လက်ဖက်ရည် ''La-Phet-Yay'') is also popular in Myanmar and widely available in the local markets and teahouses but beware: the Burmese like their milk teas very, ''very'' sweet. '''Alcohol''' is frowned upon by conservative Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, but consumed widely, mostly among men. Myanmar Beer is most popular in the country. Other variants, including Mandalay Beer exist. However, many of such companies are government-owned and/or have links to the drug trade. '''Toddy juice''' (''ta-YEI'') is popular in central Myanmar, and is made from fermented palm sugar. An alcoholic drink popular in the Shan State is '''Shwe le maw''', and is reportedly very strong. It is also possible to buy full strength Beer Chang imported from Thailand; exports to most countries are not nearly as strong. Beware of alcoholic drinks served in the far northern states. The locals refer to it as '''alcohol which does not burn''' when lit, and it is widely suspected to be an opiate concoction rather than a fermented beverage. There are a lot of nightclubs, including those attached to the five star hotels (e.g. Grand Plaza), and also local entertainment centres (e.g. JJs, Asia plaza). === Teahouses === [[File:Myanmar Tea House Food.jpg|thumb|Tea and snacks at a tea house]] Teahouses are important places of social gathering and popular throughout the country. They look like restaurants but if you watch closely you will notice that people are drinking a lot of Chinese tea (free), light brown tea and are mainly snacking. Some teahouses also offer simple dishes as fried rice or noodles. Once seated they will expect you to order coffee but that's not what you should go for as it is almost always instant coffee. Order tea, a type of black tea with milk that differ in strength and sweetness: *''bone mahn'': balanced *''cho seh'': sweet *''kyaw p'daung'': sweeter *''pan brown'': bitter and sweet *''jah hseent'': light, with milk, not strong *''pancho'': strong *''bow hseent'': less strong *''noe hseent dee'': milk tea without sugar You will completely mispronounce the tea names (second and sixth are relatively easy) and people might not get what you want at all since it's rare for foreigners to order these teas. So it's better to ask your hotel or any local speaking English to write down the names in Burmese. Since you are a foreigner they will assume that you want your tea ''sheh'' - special - which means it will come with condensed milk. It's also possible to order a ''tankie'' and so the tea will come in a big pot. A simple cup of tea costs 200-400 kyat. Small snacks like samosas, cakes or sweet balls are readily available at the table. If not, ask. At the end you will only pay for the number of pieces eaten. Foodies should check out the type of snacks before deciding on a teahouse. It is not impolite at all to bring your own food, as long as you order at least ''something''. == Sleep == [[File:Sule-Pagoda by-Night.jpg|thumb|Night in Yangon]] Myanmar has good hotel accommodation, particularly in major cities and the main tourist areas, though prices are substantially higher than in [[Thailand]] or [[Vietnam]]. Rooms with attached bath are available for under US$10 everywhere except Yangon and with shared bath for anywhere from US$3–6 in most places. Almost every hotel licensed for foreigners has running hot water (though, in remote areas, availability may be restricted to certain hours of the day). Hotels, with a few exceptions, are usually clean. At the budget end, sheets and blankets may be threadbare and the rooms may be poorly ventilated. A few low-end hotels, particularly in Yangon and other large cities, specialize in cubicle rooms, small single rooms with no windows which, while cheap and clean, are not for the claustrophobic. Rates are quoted as single/double, but the rooms are usually the same whether one person or two stay in the room, making good hotels a real bargain if travelling as a couple. Except at the top-end, breakfast is always included in the price of the room. The tourism boom in Myanmar has left its infrastructure struggling to cope with the increased numbers of visitors. Hotel rooms tend to sell out really fast, and those in popular tourist destinations often sell out months in advance. As a result of the lack of supply, prices have also increased substantially. You should make your hotel bookings well in advance of your planned trip to Myanmar in order not to be stranded when you arrive. Wild camping is not legal in Myanmar. Myanmar has a problem providing enough electricity to its people and power supply is severely restricted everywhere. In many places, electricity may be available only for a few hours each evening or, in some cases, only every alternate evening. If you don't want to spend your nights without a fan or air conditioning, ask if the hotel has a generator (most mid-priced hotels do). On generator nights, the air conditioning in your room may not work (the price is usually lower as well). Even if a hotel has a generator, there is no guarantee that it will be used to provide you electricity at the times you require, so be ready for blackouts at any time of day or night. Major tourist hotels in Yangon and Mandalay have near-uninterrupted electricity supply, but can cost anywhere from US$80–300 per night. At the top-end, Myanmar has some excellent hotels including one or two great ones (The Strand in Yangon and Kandawgyi Palace Hotel in Yangon). The Myanmar government runs many hotels, including some beautiful colonial era ones (though not the two listed in the previous sentence). A percentage of all accommodation payments goes to the government, no matter where you choose to stay, and it is not possible to run a successful business in Myanmar without some relationship or payment arrangement with the military. == Work == {{overseasjobscam|Myanmar, particularly in the areas along the Thai border. In many cases, victims are lured to Thailand with a job offer, then trafficked across the border into Myanmar}} Work in Myanmar for foreigners is hard to come by. NGOs and other aid groups operate in the capital and remote rural areas but may require specific skill sets to hire you. Another option is European and Asian companies, mostly operating on a small scale. Teaching English is feasible in private schools but many foreigners have reported unreasonable contracts, such as withholding pay and refusing to pay those who resign early. The education ministry only hires citizens with teaching certification. If you would like to work and assist Burmese refugees, certain NGOs work in neighbouring [[Thailand]]. == Stay safe == === Crime === The government punishes crime, particularly against tourists, severely; as a result, as far as crime and personal safety go, Myanmar is extremely safe for tourists, and it is generally safe to walk on the streets alone at night. In fact, you are less likely to be a victim of crime in Myanmar than in [[Thailand]] or [[Malaysia]]. However, as with anywhere else, little crime does not mean no crime and it is still no excuse to ditch your common sense. As a foreigner, the most common crime you should be worried about is petty theft, so keep your belongings secured. Physical and verbal harassment towards foreigners is uncommon, even on urban walks near bars. Since 2005, [[Yangon]] and [[Mandalay]] have seen a barely perceptible rise in the very low level of street robberies. There were isolated bombings in 2005 in Mandalay and Yangon, and in 2006 in [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]. === Illegal substances === {{Warningbox|Drug offences are '''''severely punished''''' by the Burmese authorities. Convicted offenders can expect to face lengthy prison sentences. |us = https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Burma.html |canada = https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar }} ===Begging=== Despite traditional taboos against it, [[begging]] has become a major problem in the main tourist areas such as [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] and [[Bagan]]. Children and "mothers" carrying babies are often the ones who beg as they are more effective at soliciting pity. Most beggars are part of larger begging syndicates or just after easy money, as tourists are usually seen to be rich. In addition, the poor can always obtain food for free from the nearest monastery if they can't afford to pay for it, so begging is not necessary for their survival. If you choose to give, note that most Burmese earn only US$40 a month doing manual labour and so giving US$1 to a beggar is ''very'' generous. ===Fake monks=== Theravada Buddhism is the main religion in Myanmar, and it is customary for monks to go on alms rounds in the morning. Unfortunately, there are also many bogus monks who hang out around the main tourist attractions preying on unsuspecting visitors. Alms rounds are solely for the purpose of collecting food: genuine monks are forbidden from accepting, or even touching money. Monks are forbidden from eating after noon, and are also not allowed to sell items or use high pressure tactics to solicit donations. Authentic monks are often found in single file lines with their alms bowls. If you see a single monk requesting money from foreigners he is a fraud. === Corruption === Myanmar is one of the world's most corrupt countries. Officials and other civil servants may discreetly ask you for a bribe, or invent issues (missing forms, closed offices, etc.) in order to get you to suggest one. Pretending not to understand or asking to speak to a superior may work. However, white visitors are rarely targeted, while those of Asian descent (including South Asians and East Asians) may be forced to give bribes, but the brunt of the problem hits normal Burmese. Westerners are very rarely asked for bribes, although most bribes are a US dollar or less, and requested by people earning as little as US$30/month. === Driving conditions === [[File:Jampacked car in Kalaw (Myanmar 2013) (11773361556).jpg|thumb|One of many right-hand drive vehicles imported from Japan into Myanmar. These cause inherent visibility problems when driving on the right side of the road]] The poor road infrastructure, and a mixture of extremely ancient vehicles on the country's roads are all what best describe the road conditions. However, driving habits are not very aggressive compared to say, [[Vietnam]], which does make the safety of the roads comfortable for almost everyone. Although rare, youths sometimes compete against each other on the roads, which has led to some casualties over the past few years. Bus drivers are among the worst dangers, although this is somewhat less of an issue since 2010 due to new, very harsh penalties imposed on bus drivers involved in accidents. Surprisingly, Burma has a mixture of both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, with the majority being right-hand drive (used imports from Japan) but driving is generally done on the right side of the roads. Unless you have experience driving in countries with poorly disciplined drivers and very shabby vehicles, try to avoid driving in Myanmar; alternatively, arrange for a local driver to take you around. === Civil conflict === Various insurgent groups continue to operate in the '''Mon, and Chin (Zomi), states''' of Myanmar, along the Thai and Chinese borders. Travel to these regions generally requires a government permit. The government also sometimes restricts travel to '''Kayah State, Rakhine State, and Kachin State''' due to insurgent activity. However travel is entirely unrestricted to the districts of Yangon, Bago, Ayeyarwady, Sagaing, Taninthayi, Mandalay, and Magwe. Some areas that have been reported as closed have become open without notice, and areas previously regarded as open can become closed with no warning. In addition, local immigration offices may have their own interpretations of regulations. === Politics === [[File:Propaganda, Myanmar 2.jpg|thumb|"Tatmadaw [Armed Forces] and the people in eternal unity. Anyone attempting to divide them is our enemy."]] Myanmar is again under harsh military rule as it was from 1962 - 2012, with a reputation for repressing dissent, as in the case of the house arrest of democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi. There used to be more than 1,500 political prisoners (sentences of 65 years and hard labor in remote camps were given to leaders of the Saffron Revolution), although some have been released. When in Myanmar, abstain from political activities and don't insult the government. Discuss politics, if you must, with people who have had time to get a feel for you. The danger, however, is primarily posed to those you speak with, so let them lead the conversation. Also, realize that many phone lines are tapped. And if you absolutely must wave a democracy banner on the street, you'll simply find yourself on the next outbound flight. Between 2012–2020, liberty in general increased under the new government. A few politically critical articles have been published in government newspapers and a satirical film deriding the government's film censorship policy has been released, neither of which would have been possible even in 2010. Returning visitors to Myanmar may find that locals have become ever so slightly more open to discussions regarding politics. However, under any circumstances avoid doing things that might make the military or police feel uncomfortable, such as taking pictures of police and police buildings or vehicles. == Stay healthy == Hygiene in Myanmar may seem terrible to the average Westerner but it is possible to stay healthy with some basic precautions such as prophylactic medication, care choosing food and water, and antibacterial ointment. '''Never drink [[tap water]]'''. Restaurants are legally required to use ice made and sold by bottled water companies, so ordering ice is usually safe in major places. Always drink bottled water and check that the cap is sealed on, not simply screwed on. Diseases such as [[dengue fever]], [[Japanese encephalitis]] and [[malaria]] are endemic. Drug-resistant strains of malaria and tuberculosis are common in many areas. Hepatitis vaccinations are highly recommended and the cholera oral vaccine is worthwhile. At the dinner table, Burmese use a spoon and fork, or their fingers when this is more convenient. You might feel better rinsing all of them before meals. Antibacterial wipes or alcohol hand-rub is a good idea at regular intervals. As in many developing countries: "if you can't fry, roast, peel or boil it - then forget it". ===HIV=== The rate of HIV infection in Myanmar is high by Western and Asian standards (0.7% of the population in 2019). ===Healthcare=== Myanmar's healthcare system is poorly funded. If you should fall sick in Myanmar, you can visit the doctor in major cities for minor ailments. However, for more serious medical care, hospital conditions tend to be unsanitary and there is often a shortage of medical supplies. The only hospital that comes close to modern developed standards is Pun Hlaing Hospital, a privately owned hospital which is in a remote township of Yangon called Hlaing Thar Yar, and one should expect very high expenses there. Most of the hospitals are government owned, which means poorly funded. Most of the government officials and rich locals go to [[Thailand]] or [[Singapore]] for more serious medical treatment and hospitalisation, and you will be better off doing so too. Make sure you get travel insurance as arranging to be airlifted in an emergency is rather costly. The clinic formerly operated by the Australian Embassy in Yangon closed in 2018. There is a good [https://myanmarmix.com/en/directory/international-sos-clinic-yangon international medical clinic] at the Inya Lake Hotel in Yangon for consulting, testing, radiology and minor surgery. == Respect == {{infobox|Naming conventions|Unlike in many other cultures, there is generally no concept of a family name, patronymic or matronymic in Burmese culture, and most individuals only have a given name. For example, the 8th President, '''Htin Kyaw''', only has a given name with no family name, patronymic or matronymic, and would be addressed as Mr Htin Kyaw by most English speakers. Often, a Burmese honorific, usually '''U''' (ဦး) for men or '''Daw''' (ဒေါ်) for women, may be added to the beginning of the name, so he may be addressed as ''U Htin Kyaw''.}} [[File:Mrauk U - 0002.jpg|thumb|400px|[[Mrauk U]], the old capital of Rakhine in Myanmar]] Modest clothing is highly appreciated everywhere except nightclubs, and practically required in religious places such as pagodas, temples and monasteries (of which there are thousands). Miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed in consecrated areas, where you also have to remove your footwear, so loafers and flip-flops that you can slip on and off at the entrance are preferable. Myanmar has some of the most stunning temples in Asia and you will be tempted to visit more than you think. In Myanmar, you have to remove your footwear before entering the entire temple complex, including in outdoor areas. You might want to bring some wet wipes so you can clean your feet after visiting. Burmese people generally do not engage in public display of affection, even among married couples, and it is generally considered distasteful and should be avoided. Both men and women wear a ''longyi'', a sort of sarong sold everywhere, and it is not unusual to see Caucasian foreigners walking around in them. They are wrapped in different ways for men and women, so find out how to tie yours. If you turn up at a temple in inappropriate dress, you can always rent a longyi for a pittance. When giving and receiving '''business cards''', always use your right hand with the palm facing up, and your left hand supporting your right elbow. As the left hand is traditionally reserved for dirty things, handling business cards with it is considered to be very rude. Tourists of Caucasian descent are commonly referred to as ''bo'', which translates to "officer", a linguistic relic of colonization. Address elders with ''U'' (pronounced "oo", as in s'''oo'''n) or "Uncle" for men, and ''Daw'' or "Auntie" for women. Generally speaking, despite the common negative perception of the government, most ordinary Burmese people are incredibly friendly and polite as long as you respect their local customs. Customer service is in general very good (some say better than in [[Thailand]]) but customer service staff are invariably poorly paid, so you might wish to tip service staff generously to ensure your money goes into the right hands. ===Politics=== Avoid discussing relations with the Rohingya and the ongoing ethnic cleansing as this is a very sensitive and emotive issue that can potentially escalate into a confrontation. The vast majority of Burmese people regard the Rohingya as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh who have no right to be in Myanmar, and their Muslim religion is seen by many as a threat to Buddhism. Most Burmese people are offended when the Rohingya are referred to as such, and will insist that you use the term "Bengali" to refer to them instead. Tread carefully when discussing relations with [[China]]. Even though both the military junta and Aung San Suu Kyi had developed close ties with China and invited Chinese investment in Myanmar's infrastructure, this is strongly opposed by many pro-democracy activists. While the pro-democracy view on China have largely improved due to alleged Chinese support towards anti-junta ethnic armed organisations, China's policy has equally dissatisfied or even angered pro-junta groups. ===Religion=== {{see also|Buddhism#Respect}} Buddhism is the largest religion in the country, followed by roughly 80-90% of the population. Many Burmese people are religious and fundamentalist Buddhism has seen growing support in the 21st century. As in neighbouring Thailand, monks collect alms in the morning and adhere to strict rules such as abstaining from physical contact with women and not touching money. It is customary for Burmese men to spend time living as a monk at least once in their lifetime. Donations to monks should be spontaneous and given in the form of food only, not money; monetary donations should be placed in donation boxes in temples. If you see a monk with money in his alms bowl, he is fake. Monks are not allowed to eat after noon, so if you see a monk going on alms round after noon, he is fake. Buddhist monks are highly respected, and it is essential to show them respect. Always ask for permission before taking a photograph or touching a monk. It is also important to behave appropriately in their presence. If you are on public transportation, it is customary to give up your seat for them as a sign of respect. Showing any form of disrespect to Buddhism is taken '''very seriously''' in Myanmar and you can expect to be treated with '''no degree of leniency''' if you've been accused of disrespecting Buddhism. Disrespecting Buddhism encompasses things like wearing something with Buddha on it, having a tattoo of Buddha, depicting Buddha in an inappropriate way, and so on. Foreigners have been jailed for disrespecting Buddhism, so be careful about what you say and what you do. Do not speak negatively about religion; it is illegal, under Burmese law, to "insult" religion. What counts as "insulting" religion is very broadly defined and open to interpretation. Refrain from engaging in religious discussions with the Burmese. Swastikas are commonly seen in Buddhist temples and '''should not''' be conflated with anti-Semitism and Nazism. ==Connect== === Telephone === Country Code: +95 International Call Prefix: 00 Phone numbers in Myanmar have the format <code>+95 1 234-5678</code> where "95" is the country code for Myanmar, the next one, two, three or four digits are the area code and the remaining 6, 7 or 8 digits are the "local" part of the subscriber number. You can buy GSM/4G sim cards at International airports or any convenience store. Standard sim card costs around 1500 Ks. Some operators may offer special sim for tourists. There are 4 mobile operators in Myanmar, MPT (Government+KDDI), Telenor, Ooredoo and MyTel (Military+VietTel). MPT in the largest in Myanmar in terms of network coverage and user. Operators offer similar price plans. Generally, standard plan offers voice calls for 20 Ks - 25Ks/min, SMS at 15 Ks - 20 Ks/message. Pay as you go data plan offers around 7 Ks/MB but specific data plan will offer around 1000 Ks/GB or cheaper. Prices for IDD and roaming service vary depending on the operators and destination countries. If you are going to use in urban area only for local call and data, there is not much difference between operators. If you are going to visit remote area, please check which operator is available at there. If you are going to use IDD or roaming, you may wisely choose by checking offering price at their websites. === Mail === International mail out of Myanmar is reportedly quite efficient, despite what some hotels might tell you. As elsewhere, there is always a risk if you send valuables as ordinary parcels. Use EMS for fast, and relatively cheap international parcels. === Internet === Country's telecommunication sector was revolutionized in 2013 and speed is steadily increasing and price become cheaper. As of 2020, free Wi-fi is available at almost every Hotels. Unlike other countries, Myanmar hugely rely on 4G Internet than cable or Wi-fi. Surprisingly, Yangon has 4th-fastest 4G speeds in East Asia despite the fact that it had slowest speeds in Asia before 2013. Seamless 4G Internet is available in every city, town and along major highway roads. Even a small village is likely to be covered with at least 3G Internet unless it is in highly remote or armed conflict area. Data costs are around 1000 kyat ($0.8)/GB. There are also cheaper fancy data plans depending on operators. MPT is largest mobile operator and Telenor is second. 4G sim cards are available at International airports and any convenience store. With the extended coverage of 4G and smart phones, once dominant Internet cafes are getting out of business and turn into gaming stations. In case of you need to access Internet urgently, you can use at those gaming stations but extensive file downloading is not welcome for it can effect their gaming experience. Facebook and Viber are the most used apps and services in Myanmar. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|22|96|zoom=5}} amsi3mgtgo0ko90pvrqg4wulxxtdsig 5091342 5091341 2025-07-11T10:44:14Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091342 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bagan (Myanmar) banner Sunset.jpg|caption=The temples of Bagan at dawn}} {{Warningbox| A nationwide state of emergency remains in force, with nighttime curfews enforced in many cities including Yangon. <!--- Mainland Chinese visitors should be extra careful due to hostility from protesters, and should avoid speaking Mandarin near protest venues.---> Avoid facilities and vehicles linked to security forces and military administration, monitor local media closely, and keep in regular contact with your embassy. Ethnic armed organisations are waging a large-scale offensive in [[Northern Myanmar|Northern]] and [[Eastern Myanmar]] from the Chinese-Myanmar border. Martial law is imposed in part of Shan State, and border crossings along the Chinese-Myanmar border are suspended. There are reports that the prices of many necessities is soaring. Many governments advise against all travel to Myanmar, though the main tourist circuit comprising of [[Yangon]], [[Mandalay]], [[Bagan]] and [[Inle Lake]] is far-removed from the violence and generally safe to visit — corroborated by the UK government's travel advice. A massive earthquake hit the area near Sagaing on 28th March 2025, and a state of emergency has been declared. The earthquake tremors could be felt as far as Hanoi, Vietnam. Many governments advise against all travel to Mandalay and nearby areas. |australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/myanmar |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/myanmar |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar |ie=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/myanmar-burma |sg=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/countries-regions/m/myanmar/travel-page |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/myanmar |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/burma-travel-advisory.html |lastedit=2025-03-31 }} '''Myanmar''' (မြန်မာ ''myanma''), or '''Burma''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]]. The country features awe-inspiring ancient temples, lively local markets, and captivating landscapes, such as unspoiled beaches, picturesque hills, and verdant forests. The genuine warmth of the Burmese people, combined with delectable cuisine, creates an ideal destination for gastronomes and culture aficionados alike. Since the 1960s, the country has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. For a considerable period, Myanmar has been afflicted with political instability, sectarian violence, corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and a prolonged history of colonial exploitation that paid scant attention to human development. == Regions == {{Regionlist | regionmap=Burma Regions Map.png | regionmapsize=425px | region1name=[[Southern Myanmar]] | region1items=''Ayeyarwady, Bago, Yangon'' | region1color=#CAA7C9 | region1description=The lowlands of the Irrawaddy Delta with the largest city and former capital Yangon. | region2name=[[Central Myanmar]] | region2items=''Magway, Mandalay, Naypyitaw'' | region2color=#E5B775 | region2description=Mandalay, historical and archaeological sites and cool hill towns. | region3name=[[Western Myanmar]] | region3items=''Rakhine, Chin'' | region3color=#A4C78A | region3description=Remote mountainous regions and some lovely beaches on the Bay of Bengal. | region4name=[[Northern Myanmar]] | region4items=''Sagaing, Kachin'' | region4color=#d17c82 | region4description=A huge, fractious region including the southern reaches of the Himalayas and many tribes. | region5name=[[Eastern Myanmar]] | region5items=''Shan, Kayah'' | region5color=#76AED2 | region5description=The infamous Golden Triangle and a bewildering number of ethnic groups. | region6name=[[Southeastern Myanmar]] | region6items=''Tanintharyi, Mon, Kayin'' | region6color=#DDE28E | region6description=The southern coastal stretch bordering Thailand with a vast number of offshore islands. }} == Cities == * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Naypyidaw]]|wikidata=Q37400}} (''formerly Pyinmana'') — newly designated capital of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]|wikidata=Q800122}} (''formerly Pegu'') — historic city near Yangon full of Buddhist sights * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kawthaung]]|wikidata=Q978611}} — beach town in the far south which is as much like Thailand as Myanmar gets * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mandalay]]|wikidata=Q185518}} — former capital of the Konbaung Dynasty built around the Mandalay Royal Palace and main commercial centre of Upper Myanmar * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mawlamyine]]|wikidata=Q685941}} (''Moulmein'') — capital of Mon State and the third largest city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pyin U Lwin]]|wikidata=Q1360318}} (''Maymyo'') — a cool town (in both temperature and attractions) which is a former British colonial hill station * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taunggyi]]|wikidata=Q1075566}} — capital of Shan State in the heart of the Golden Triangle * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Twante]]|wikidata=Q7857423}} — a delta town that is famous for pottery * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Yangon]]|wikidata=Q37995}} (''formerly Rangoon'') — the economic centre, known for its pagodas and colonial architecture == Other destinations == <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bagan]]|wikidata=Q29317}} — an archaeological zone with thousands of ancient pagodas near the banks of the Irrawaddy River, and a {{UNESCO}} * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Inle Lake]]|wikidata=Q1043461}} — a large shallow lake famous for boat trips, visiting floating villages inhabited by the Intha people, hiking, and also a source of excellent silk * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kengtung]]|wikidata=Q1027111}} — between [[Mong La]] (on the border with China) and [[Tachileik]] (on the border with Thailand) in the Golden Triangle, known for the ''Ann'' (black teeth people) and ''Akha'' tribes and trekking * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kyaiktiyo]]|wikidata=Q6450666}} — a gold-gilded rock sitting atop a cliff and a major pilgrimage site * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mount Popa]]|wikidata=Q1150764}} — an extinct volcano regarded as the Mount Olympus of Myanmar, a green oasis high above the hot plains and an easy day trip from Bagan * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mrauk U]]|wikidata=Q1951490}} — former capital of the Rakhine Kingdom, with many ancient pagodas that serve as a reminder of that era * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngapali]]|wikidata=Q19701446}} — beach resort in western [[Rakhine State]], on the Bay of Bengal * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngwe Saung]]|wikidata=Q7023181}} — longest stretch of beach in Ayeyarwaddy (English: Irrawaddy) Division, white sandy beach and crystal clear water are the features of Ngwe Saung Beach * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pyay]]|wikidata=Q691747}} — a town on the Irrawaddy River midway between Yangon and Bagan, known for its archaeological site ''Sri Kittara'', the ancient Pyu capital from 2 to 9 CE * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pathein]]|wikidata=Q870103}} — a river town in the Irrawaddy delta, known for manufacture of umbrellas, gateway to Chuang Tha and Ngwe Saung Beaches == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMyanmar.png}} === History === Like most of Southeast Asia's countries, Myanmar's people and history is a glorious mishmash of settlers and invaders from all fronts. The Mon and the Pyu are thought to have come from [[India]], while the now dominant Bamar (Burmese) migrated through [[Tibet]] and, by 849, had founded a powerful kingdom centred on [[Bagan]]. The ethnic diversity of the region, and the dominance of the Bamar people in the central plains, set up the geopolitical struggles between them and the multitude of smaller ethnic groups surrounding, which have continued unabated until the present day. From the 9th century to the 19th century, the Burmese empire grew through conquests of [[Thailand]] ([[Ayutthaya]]) and India ([[Manipur]]), and shrank under attacks from [[China]] and internal rebellions. [[File:Bago, Myanmar (Burma) - panoramio (44).jpg|thumb|Resting Buddha statue in Bago]] Eventually, [[United Kingdom|Britain]] conquered Burma over a period of 62 years (1824-1886) and incorporated it into its Indian Empire, and King Thibaw, the last Burmese monarch, was exiled to [[Ratnagiri]] in what is today [[India]]. Like in their other colonies, the British maintained control partly through a "divide and conquer" strategy, in which they deliberately stoked tensions between different ethnic and religious groups, resulting in ethnic and religious conflicts that have never been resolved. For example, bureaucrats were imported from India, and other government positions tended to be manned by locals from the smaller ethnic groups. Burma was administered as a province of India until 1937 when it became a separate colony. During the Second World War, Burma was a major battleground as the Allies fought the Japanese for dominance over Asia. The [[Burma Road]] was built to get supplies to China. The Thailand-Burma railway (the so-called "Death Railway") from [[Kanchanaburi]] in Thailand over the River Kwai to Burma was built by the Japanese using forced labour &mdash; Allied prisoners-of-war, indentured Thai labourers, Burmese people and other Southeast Asians. They had to work in appalling conditions and a great number of them died (estimated at 80,000) during construction of the railway. Large parts of Western Burma, particularly the hilly areas bordering India and the city of [[Mandalay]], were severely damaged during the war. Burmese independence fighters led by '''General Aung San''' cooperated with the Japanese to oust the British at first; the Japanese promised to grant independence to Burma in exchange. However, life under Japanese occupation was even more brutal than life under British colonialism, and many Burmese were killed, such as in the Kalagong massacre. Aung San subsequently switched allegiance and helped the allies win Burma back from the Japanese. Aung San subsequently led negotiations with the British for Burmese independence after the end of World War II, and the British agreed in 1947 to grant independence to Burma the following year, though Aung San himself was assassinated later in 1947 and never lived to see his dream come true. Independence from the British under the name '''Union of Burma''' was finally attained on 4 January 1948, and General Aung San is regarded by most Burmese people to be their father of independence. The new union brought together various states defined by ethnic identity, many of whom had centuries-long histories of autonomy from and struggles against each other. In the interest of securing their collective independence from Britain, the tribes reached an agreement to submit to collective governance—with power sharing among the ethnicities and states—for ten years, after which each tribe would be afforded the right to secede from the union. The terms of this "Pinlon Agreement" were enshrined in the 1947/1948 constitution of the new Union of Burma. The new central government of the nation quickly worked to consolidate its power, marginalising and angering tribal leaders and setting off ethnic armed conflict that has continued unabated until the present day. In 1961, more than 200 ethnic leaders from the Shan people, Kachin people, Red Karen, Karen people, Chin peoples, Mon people and Rakhine people met with ethnic Bamar (Burmese) central government authorities to draft a new form of government which would ensure the tribes both autonomy and self-determination within a federal system. [[File:Aung San Suu Kyi December 2011 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Aung San Suu Kyi]] The new government was never formed. Nevertheless, up until Ne Win's coup in 1962, Burma was regarded as one of the most developed and fastest growing economies in Asia, and widely touted as a contender to be the next Japan. Military leader General Ne Win led a coup d'état which ousted the democratically elected government in 1962, and installed himself as leader. General Ne Win dominated the government from 1962 to 1988, first as military ruler, then as self-appointed president, and later as political kingpin. Under Ne Win's rule, widespread corruption and nepotism led the Burmese economy into a downward spiral from which it has never fully recovered. Pro-democracy demonstrations in 1988 were violently crushed, with general Saw Maung taking over in a coup and installing the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) to rule the country, now renamed '''Myanmar'''. Multiparty legislative elections were held in 1990, with the main opposition party - the National League for Democracy (NLD) - winning a landslide victory (392 of 489 seats). But SLORC refused to hand over power, instead placing NLD leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi (daughter of national hero Aung San) under house arrest, which she has endured for 14 of the last 20 years. Today Myanmar, a resource-rich country, suffers from pervasive government controls, inefficient economic policies, and rural poverty. What was once one of the richest and most developed countries in Asia has since slumped into poverty due to widespread corruption. The junta took steps in the early 1990s to liberalise price controls after decades of failure under the "Burmese Way to Socialism," but had to reinstate subsidised prices on staples in the face of food riots, upon which the democracy movement grafted its agenda. The government called out troops and the rioters were defiant until the monks intervened: standing between both sides, they told everyone to go home and they did. The riots caused overseas development assistance to cease and the government subsequently nullified the results of the 1990 legislative elections. In response to the government's attack in May 2003 on Aung San Suu Kyi and her convoy, the [[USA]] imposed new economic sanctions against Myanmar, including bans on imports of products from Myanmar and on provision of financial services by US citizens. [[File:NLD Flag from car Yangon.png|thumb|A National League for Democracy supporter in Yangon]] The summer of 2007 was marked by demonstrations against the military government which were again brutally suppressed. The demonstrations started in August, apparently in an uncoordinated manner, as a protest against a stiff hike in the price of petrol, but morphed into a more serious challenge to the government after three monks were beaten at a protest march in the town of Pakokku. The monks demanded an apology but none was forthcoming and soon processions of monks with begging bowls held upside down filled many cities (including [[Sittwe]], [[Mandalay]] and [[Yangon]]). Yangon, particularly the area around Sule Pagoda in the downtown area, became the centre of these protests. While the monks marched, and many ordinary citizens came out in support of the monks, the world watched as pictures, videos, and blogs flooded the Internet. However, the government soon suppressed the protests by firing on crowds, arresting monks and closing monasteries, and temporarily shut down Internet communications with the rest of the world. This led the US, [[Australia]], [[Canada]] and the [[European Union]] to impose additional sanctions, some targeting the families and finances of the military leaders. [[File:Protesters against the military coup.jpg|thumb|Protesters demonstrating against the 2021 military coup]] Following elections in 2010, Burma began a process of liberalisation that has led to a reduction or removal of sanctions by many nations including the United States. In 2012, Aung San Suu Kyi was elected to the Burmese parliament and allowed to travel to Europe and North America. Censorship of foreign and local news was also suspended. In November 2015, Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won a landslide victory in the nationwide legislative elections and Htin Kyaw, a close ally of Aung San Suu Kyi, became president. In April 2016, Aung San Suu Kyi took office as State Counsellor, a post equivalent to prime minister, making her Myanmar's ''de facto'' head of government. In February 2021, the military once again took power in a coup d'état after a landslide victory by the NLD. Country-wide mass protests and a civil disobedience movement sprung up in the aftermath; protests were brutally crushed as the army killed hundreds of NLD supporters and democratic activists. Thousands of NLD and other pro-democracy politicians, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and community leaders were arrested. Peaceful protests still occur sporadically while other groups of protesters have taken up arms against the military regime, particularly in the border regions. Western countries have re-imposed economic sanctions on Myanmar as a result of the coup. As of mid-2024, the junta controls less than half of the area of the country, and Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) have been successfully mounting co-ordinated attacks with increasing confidence. However, this brutal civil war still has no end in sight. ===Culture=== Myanmar's culture is largely a result of Indian influences intertwined with local traditions and Chinese influences. This can be seen in the various stupas and temples throughout the country, which bear a distinct resemblance to those in northern India. As in neighbouring [[Thailand]], Theravada Buddhism is the single largest religion. 88% of the population follows these Buddhist practices, and even some of the most remote villages will have a temple for people to pray at. Other religions which exist in smaller numbers include Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Animism and ancestor worship can also be found around the country, especially in the more distant, hill tribe regions. One pre-Buddhist tradition that survives in Myanmar is the worship of the '''''Nats''''', or traditional Burmese spirits, and you will see many spirit houses throughout the country dedicated to their worship. Following the spread of Theravada Buddhism, the worship of the Nats was incorporated into Burmese Buddhism, and they are today regarded as subordinates of the Buddha. ===People=== [[File:Burmese people 01.jpg|thumb|Boys in Yangon with thanaka paste on their faces]] The dominant ethnic group in Myanmar is known as the Bamar, from which the original English name of the country, Burma, was derived. Besides the Bamar, Myanmar is also home to many minority ethnic groups and nationalities which have their own distinct cultures and languages. In addition to the native ethnic minorities, Myanmar is also home to ethnic Chinese and Indians whose ancestors migrated to Myanmar during the colonial period, most visible in the cities of Yangon and Mandalay. Myanmar is divided into fourteen administrative divisions, seven regions and seven states; generally speaking, the regions are Bamar-dominated, while the states are dominated by the respective ethnic minorities. The government has been condemned by other nations for violence against the Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, which borders Bangladesh. The government does not recognise them as citizens of Myanmar, but instead claims they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, a narrative embraced by the vast majority of Burmese despite the Rohingya's presence in Rakhine going back generations. Forced to flee to Bangladesh in large numbers, where they are also regarded as foreigners, many have lost their lives trying to seek refuge and work in Malaysia. Generally speaking, most Myanmar people are incredibly friendly and polite, and will do their best to make you feel welcome in their country. ===Politics=== Myanmar, officially the '''Republic of the Union of Myanmar''' (ပြည်ထောင်​စု သမ္မတ မြန်မာ​နိုင်​ငံတော်), is a presidential republic, with the president, who is appointed by the legislature, serving as both head of state and ''de jure'' head of government. He and his cabinet form the executive branch. The legislature is composed of the bicameral ''Pyidaungsu Hluttaw'' (Assembly of the Union), consisting of an upper ''Amyotha Hluttaw'' (House of Nationalities), and a lower ''Pyithu Hluttaw'' (House of Representatives). While a majority of the members of the legislature are popularly elected by the people, a quarter the seats are reserved for appointees from the military. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won a majority of seats in the 2015 election. As she is constitutionally barred from the presidency (by virtue of having married a foreigner), she instead served as the ''de facto'' head of government in the role of State Counsellor. As of February 2021, Myanmar is ruled by a military dictatorship. === Climate === Myanmar is considered to have 3 seasons. The hot season is usually from Mar–Apr. Temperatures then cool off during the rainy season from May–Oct. The peak tourism season is the cool season from Nov–Feb. Temperatures can climb as high as 36°C in Yangon in the hot season while in the cool season, noontime temperatures are usually a more bearable 32°C, with night temperatures falling to around 19°C. Mandalay is slightly cooler in the cool season, with temperatures falling as low as 13°C, while temperatures in the hot season can go as high as 37°C. Generally, Lower Myanmar, the area around Yangon, receives more rainfall than the drier Upper Myanmar (around Mandalay). In the highlands such as [[Inle Lake]] and [[Pyin U Lwin]], winter temperatures can fall below 10°C at night, while daytime temperatures tend to be very pleasant. Even in the summer, temperatures rarely climb above 32°C. Near the Indian border in [[Kachin State]], there are permanently snow-capped mountains. === Read === [[File:Haridaung-Mrauk U-Aussicht-06-Pagoden im Dunst-gje.jpg|thumb|View of Mrauk U]] * ''From the Land of the Green Ghosts'' by Pascal Khoo Thwe. A Cambridge-educated writer gives a touching account of his growing up as a Paduang-Hilltribe-Guyand in the difficult political environment before becoming a rebel. ({{ISBN|0007116829}}) * ''The Glass Palace'' by Amitav Ghosh. A novel that spans a century, from British conquest to the modern day. A compelling account of how a family adapted to the changing times; provides much insight into Burmese culture. * ''The River of Lost Footsteps'' by Thant Myint-U. Easily the most accessible history of Myanmar available. Read it before you go and you will marvel at how the once great and rich cities (like Martaban, Syriam, and [[Mrauk U|Mrauk-U]]) have become the dingy and smoky villages of today. ({{ISBN|0374163421}}) * ''The Trouser People'' by Andrew Marshall. The author follows in the footsteps of Victorian explorer, Sir George Scott. This book looks at lost British heritage as well as the Burmese tragedies occurring in the present. ({{ISBN|0140294457}}) * ''Finding George Orwell in Burma'' by Emma Larkin. The pseudonymous author, a journalist, posed as a tourist to travel around Myanmar in the early 2000s, before the government opened up the country to the world. She documents a country trapped in the past, attempts to distinguish sympathetic storytellers from police informants, and retraces Orwell's life in Myanmar, who went on to give the world the vocabulary to criticise the repressive police state which the country had since become. ({{ISBN|1594200521}}) * ''Burma Chronicles'' by Guy Delisle. A whimsical and humorous graphic novel about a family who moves to Yangon on assignment with an NGO in the mid-2000s. The protagonist, a stay-at-home dad, adapts to life in Burma with his infant son while his wife works long hours. An enjoyable and light read, this work does not dwell on human rights under the dictatorship, but rather focusses on the day-to-day life of the protagonist and the characters he meets. ({{ISBN|9781897299500}}) === Listen === * [https://insightmyanmar.org/ ''Insight Myanmar''] used to be a podcast about religion and spirituality, but it pivoted to providing news and interviews with experts following the military coup of February 2021. * ''[https://www.myanmarmusings.com/ Myanmar Musings]'' is the podcast of the [https://myanmar.anu.edu.au/ Myanmar Research Centre] at the Australian National University, Canberra. While much more academic than ''Insight Myanmar'', it still features interviews with a variety of experts on a range of historical and present-day topics relating to research on Myanmar. * [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-happening-in-myanmar/id1777519120 ''What's Happening in Myanmar''] is a news podcast that is useful for keeping up with the ever-changing political and military situation on the ground in Myanmar. === Holidays === * 4 January: Independence Day * January: Kayin New Year Day - 1st waxing of Pyatho * 12 February: Union Day * March: Full Moon Day of Tabaung * 27 March: Armed Forces Day * April: Thingyan (Burmese New Year) — the most important festival in Myanmar, in which people splash water at each other. Also known as the Water Festival, and similar to Songkran in neighbouring Thailand * May: Full Moon Day of Kason * July: Full Moon Day of Waso * October: Full Moon Day of Thadingyut * 19 July: Martyrs Day * November: National Day - 10 st waning of the moon of Tazaungmon * 25 December: Christmas Day === Units of measure === {{See also|Metric and Imperial equivalents}} Since 2013, Myanmar has begun adopting the '''metric system''' (SI), which is now used for weather reports, petrol prices, and speed limits, and ''new'' road signs. However, much usage of '''imperial system''' and the traditional '''Burmese units of measurement''' persist. Old road signs may use miles and miles per hour, and government websites inconsistently convert Burmese units to metric or Imperial. ===Tourist information === * [https://tourism.gov.mm/ Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website == Talk == {{see also|Burmese phrasebook}} [[File:Vendeurs de plantes médicinales vers Kyaiktiyo Paya.jpg|thumb|Burmese signs at a market]] The official language of Myanmar is '''[[Burmese phrasebook|Burmese]]''' (မြန်မာစကား ''mien ma za ga'') (known by the government as Myanmar), a Sino-Tibetan language related to Chinese and hence tonal (word pitch matters) and analytic (most words are one syllable long). It is written using the Burmese script, based on the ancient Pali script. Bilingual signs (English and Burmese) are available in most tourist spots. Numbers often are also written in Burmese script. Much vocabulary is derived from another ancient languages of Pali (at the time of Buddha) and [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]]. There are also many other ethnic groups in Myanmar such as the Mon, Shan, Pa-O, Rohingya and many others who continue to speak their own languages. While Burmese serves as the lingua franca in government-controlled areas, it may not be spoken at all in some separatist-controlled areas. There is also a sizeable ethnic Chinese community who speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] and/or various Chinese dialects. In Yangon, most of the Chinese are descendants from migrants from Fujian and Guangdong, and hence speak mainly [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]] or Taishanese, while in Mandalay, the Chinese are mostly descendants of migrants from Yunnan, and mainly speak the Yunnan dialect of Mandarin. Some areas are also home to various ethnic Indian communities who continue to speak various Indian languages. Myanmar is a former British colony and many Burmese understand at least some rudimentary English. Most well-educated upper class Burmese speak English fluently, while any educated Burmese will know at least the basics. Hotel and airline staff, as well as people working in the tourism industry generally speak a good level of English. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Myanmar.png|450px|thumbnail|right|Visa policy of Myanmar {{legend|#ED1C24|Myanmar}} {{legend|#22B14C|Visa free & eVisa}} {{legend|#FF7F27|eVisa (Business & Tourism)}} {{legend|#FFB583|eVisa (Business)}} {{legend|#FFC90D|eVisa (Tourism)}} {{legend|#ABABAB|Visa required in advance}}]] The visa situation in Myanmar is changing quickly and this has caused confusion even among immigration staff, and many guides and official websites are out of date. Check Wikipedia for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Myanmar visa policy]. ====Visa-free==== Citizens of the following countries may visit Myanmar without a visa for tourism provided they enter '''by air''', and their stay does not exceed the following number of days: *14 days: [[Brunei]], [[Cambodia]], [[Laos]], [[Philippines]], [[Thailand]] *30 days: [[Russia]], [[Vietnam]] Citizens of [[Singapore]] may visit Myanmar without a visa for up to 30 days regardless of mode of entry. These visa exemptions are strictly not extendable. All other travelers are required to apply for a visa in advance. ====E-Visa==== [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ E-Visa] are available for visitors from many countries, including most Western countries for US$50/tourist and US$70/business travelers (as of Jan 2020) through the [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ Myanmar Immigration's web-site], which take 3 days to process. However, there is also an express tourist e-Visa service available on the governments website for US$56 (rather than the standard US$50) taking 24 hr (though sometimes just a few hours). Check the e-Visa website for details on which nationalities this is available for. The visa is valid for 28 day for stays beginning up to 90 days from the date of issue, and is single entry only. In order to apply, you will need to upload a passport-sized colour photo, and payment which is only accepted by credit card. Permitted entry points are: Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, Nay Pyi Taw International Airport, and the longtail boat crossing from Ranong, Thailand at [[Kawthaung]] Tourist visas are valid for 3 months. The visa is valid for a stay of up to four weeks (from date of entry), although you can overstay if you are willing to pay a US$3 a day fee upon departure. Employment is ''not'' allowed on a tourist visa, and working runs you the risk of being arrested and deported. Successful applicants will also be issued an "Arrival Form", which will be stapled into your passport and must be presented on arrival in Myanmar, along with your passport containing the visa sticker. ====Visa on arrival==== As of October 2019, [http://www.mip.gov.mm/on-arrival-visa/ visas on arrival] are available for tourist and business visitors of some nationalities at Yangon, Mandalay and Naypyidaw airports. You must bring two passport-sized colour photos, and a letter of invitation from the company sponsoring your visa (for business visas). There is still some confusion at airports about this because official resources are not being updated to match changes but most tourists are not experiencing difficult- if you experience any insist you are eligible for a visa and ask for a senior staff member. Note: In August 2022 a directive from Myanmar to airline staff immediately (and inexplicably) suspended the Tourist Visa on Arrival for all nationalities. This has not been updated on government websites. Check well in advance at the check-in counter what the status is, and consider playing it safe with an e-visa. ====Visa at an embassy or consulate==== You can apply for all kinds of visas in a Myanmar embassy or consulate in many capitals and large cities around the world. See specific details like contacts, hours, etc. there&mdash;especially for [[Bangkok#Embassies|Bangkok]] and [[Chiang Mai#Consulates|Chiang Mai]] in Thailand, [[Delhi#Cope|Delhi]] in India, [[Hong Kong#Consulates|Hong Kong]] in China, and [[Washington, D.C.#Embassies|Washington D.C.]] in the US. Generally the visa application requires a completed visa form (available from the Myanmar embassy), a completed arrival form (again, from the embassy), a photocopy of the photo page from your passport, two passport-sized photos, proof of your occupation, and the applicable fee. === By plane === Myanmar's main international airport is located at '''[[Yangon]]''', the largest city and main economic centre. There are regular scheduled flights from Yangon to many major Asian cities. For travellers from outside the region, the easiest way to get into Myanmar will be to catch a flight from either [[Singapore]] or [[Bangkok]], both of which have large overseas Burmese populations, and are served by several daily flights into Yangon. Myanmar also has a second international airport at '''[[Mandalay]]''', which is served by several flights to the neighbouring countries. For a current list of airlines and destinations, see [https://www.yangonairport.aero/index.php/en/ Airport of Yangon]. The two main international airlines based out of Yangon are flag carrier '''[http://flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airines]''' and privately owned '''[http://www.maiair.com/ Myanmar Airways International]'''. ===By land=== Myanmar borders five countries: China, India, Bangladesh, Thailand and Laos. Foreigners are free to travel overland from Thailand into the Burmese heartland provided their Burmese visa is in order. Entering Myanmar from the other land border crossings, though, is a different story. At the very least, you must apply for special permits in advance, and you may need to join a guided tour in order for the permit to be granted. ====Thailand==== Four border crossings exist between Myanmar and [[Thailand]] at [[Tachileik]]/[[Mae Sai]], [[Myawaddy]]/[[Mae Sot]], [[Htee Kee]]/[[Ban Phunamron]] and the [[Three Pagoda Pass]]. The former three are open to foreigners, and there are no restrictions on foreigners travelling into the Burmese heartland from Myawaddy or Htee Kee. From Tachileik, travel beyond Keng Tung is not possible overland unless you are on a guided tour with a special permit. No visa-on-arrival is available though, so ensure that your Thai (if required) and Burmese visas are in order. ====China==== Foreigners can enter Myanmar at [[Muse (Myanmar)|Muse]] via [[Ruili]] (in [[Yunnan]]), although a permit (as well as a visa) and a guide are needed. You will most likely need to join an organized tour. Crossing in the opposite direction is more difficult to arrange and details are uncertain; however, it's possible to fly from [[Mandalay]] to [[Kunming]], and there's even a Chinese consulate that issues visas in Mandalay. ====India==== A land border crossing exists between [[India]] and Myanmar at Moreh/[[Tamu]] and is open to tourists who have vehicles and who are on foot or who have tours. As of 2023, Myanmar eVisas are ''not'' valid for entry at this border, so you'll need to get a visa in advance. This border is in politically unstable territory and there have been protests and two bomb blasts in the Indian town of Moreh (Oct 2019) which briefly closed the border. Tourists are generally advised not to loiter in Moreh, especially late at night- and to stay in Tamu on the Myanmar side if possible. It is no longer required to have a permit to visit the Indian state of [[Manipur]] which borders Myanmar. ====Laos==== The Myanmar-Laos Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River is the sole official border crossing between Myanmar and Laos. The bridge connects [[Shan State]] in Myanmar with [[Luang Namtha|Luang Namtha Province]] in [[Laos]], in a ''very'' remote region for both countries, and information on when (or whether) the crossing is operating is hard to find. As eVisas are not accepted for entry at this crossing, you'll need to get a visa in advance. ====Bangladesh==== It is not feasible to cross the border between Myanmar and [[Bangladesh]] independently. No border crossings exist between the two nations, and the Myanmar army has planted [[landmines]] along the frontier to discourage smugglers. ===By boat=== Small wooden longtail boats shuttle between [[Ranong]], [[Thailand]] and [[Kawthaung]], Myanmar. There is no fixed schedule; you just negotiate directly with one of the boat operators, and they will leave once a price is agreed on. Be sure to bargain hard or you might get ripped off. Boat operators may try you hustle you onto their boat before you find the immigration building to get stamped out; be firm and insist on going through immigration, or you will be considered to have left the country illegally. You will need to pay a US$10 or 500 Thai baht "stamping fee" to Myanmar immigration when entering or leaving via this checkpoint. If choosing to pay by U.S. dollars, be sure your bills are in pristine condition; even slight creases will cause your bills to be rejected. == Get around == Myanmar's infrastructure is in poor shape. Travel to certain regions is prohibited; for others, special permits must be obtained, and a guide/interpreter/minder may be mandatory - although whether these "guides" accompany you to look after you, or to keep you from going to places the government doesn't want you to see, is a question best discussed elsewhere. However, travel between the main tourist sites, namely Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon, is fairly straightforward. ===Restricted areas=== Much of Myanmar is closed to foreign travellers, and many land routes to far-flung areas are also closed (for example, to [[Mrauk U]], [[Kalewa]], [[Putao]], [[Kengtung]]). Due to longstanding ethnic conflicts, many ethnic minority areas are controlled by armed separatist groups and remain outside the control of the central government. Thus, while tourists can travel freely in the Bamar-majority Burmese heartland, travel tends to be restricted or circumscribed in ethnic minority areas. In theory, any tourist can apply for a permit to visit any restricted area or to travel on any restricted land route. In practice, it is unlikely that any such permit will be issued in a reasonable amount of time, or at all. Permit requests can be made locally in some cases (for example, requests for the land route to [[Kalewa]] can be made in [[Shwebo]]) but, in most cases, the request has to be made in [[Yangon]]. Requests to visit restricted areas must be made at the [http://myanmartravelsandtours.com/ MTT (Myanmar Travel and Tours)] office in Yangon (Number 77–91, Sule Pagoda Rd, Yangon). Applications for local permits can often be made at a local MTT office or at a police station. Local permits are available only for the following places & routes: *[[File:Pa-O women at restaurant stall, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Pa-O women at a restaurant stall]][[Kengtung]] - [[Tachilek]]. This used to be straightforward but the availability is now uncertain. *[[Mrauk U]] Chin/Zomi village tours. Easily available in Mrauk U, but must visit with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Myitkyina]] - [[Indawgyi Lake]]. Easily available in Myitkyina but must travel with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Shwebo]] - [[Kalewa]]. A permit is necessary if going by road. It is uncertain whether one is required if going by boat. *[[Pa-O Self-Administered Zone]] in [[Shan State]] (including the Kakku Pagodas). Available in [[Taunggyi]], but must be accompanied by a local Pa-O guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this. All other permits must be obtained in Yangon. Permits for some places, such as Putao, are obtainable but need to be applied for well in advance Myanmar is not [[North Korea]], and you are free to walk around, go to shops and interact with the locals. However, with many of the more far flung places, and places restricted to foreigners, it is better to arrange your internal visa in advance. Companies that can help with internal visas: *[http://www.mrmyanmartravel.com Mr Myanmar Travel] *[http://www.remoteasia.com Remote Asia Travel] *[http://www.travelmyanmar.com Travel Myanmar] ===By plane=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Sample fares between important destinations (through local tourist agency)''' ! From !! To !! Approximate fare |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || US$95 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || US$85 |- | [[Bagan]] || [[Heho]] || US$65 |- | [[Heho]] || [[Yangon]] || US$85 |} The poor state of Myanmar's roads and railways make flying by far the least uncomfortable option when travelling long distances. Flag carrier '''[https://www.flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airlines]''' operates a network of domestic flights to many destinations across Myanmar from its hub in Yangon International Airport. Long known for its poor safety record, it has improved dramatically with the purchase of newer aircraft, and these days compares favourably with many of the private airlines in terms of both service and safety. There are also several private airlines operating domestic flights from Yangon. The private airline companies are usually on time, and even depart early (10-20 min), so be on time and reconfirm your flight and flight time 1–2 days before departure. Sometimes the itinerary might be altered some days before departure (meaning that you will still fly to your final destination on the scheduled time, but with an added or removed in between stop, e.g., Yangon-Bagan becomes Yangon-Mandalay-Bagan). This usually only affects your arrival time. En route stops have only 10-20 min ground time, and if it is not your final destination, you can stay inside the plane during the stop. All domestic flight from Yangon depart from Terminal 3, while international flights depart from Terminals 1 & 2. When taking a taxi from downtown to the airport, mention to the driver that you are on a domestic flight so you'll not end up in the wrong terminal. ===By train=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Train travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Ordinary || Upper || Sleeper |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 16 hr || 4,600&nbsp;kyat || 9,300&nbsp;kyat || 13,000&nbsp;kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 6 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,500&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 4 hr || 550&nbsp;kyat || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 7 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,750&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Lashio]] || 16 hr || 1,900&nbsp;kyat || 4,400&nbsp;kyat || None |} Myanmar has an extensive rail network, a relic of British rule. Unfortunately, there has been little maintenance or growth since the British left. Trains are slow, noisy, uncomfortable, and prone to delays. Electrical blackouts are becoming rare but nonetheless never assume that air conditioners, fans or the electrical supply itself will be working throughout the whole journey. Most trains have upper class and ordinary class. Ordinary class has wide open windows, benches and can be packed with locals transporting their goods. Upper class has upholstered chairs, fans and is less crowded. Be careful putting your head out of the window as it is likely to be hit by a branch. Vegetation grows so close to the tracks that you can reach out and touch it. Tickets are cheap and tourists pay the same price as locals, but tourists cannot buy tickets on the train. At smaller stations, you may have to seek the stationmaster or use an interpreter to buy a ticket. Your passport is required when purchasing. [[File:Gokteik Viaduct, Southbound.jpg|thumb|The famous Gokteik Viaduct dates from 1899]] A journey on a train is a great way to see the country and meet people. The rail journey from [[Mandalay]], up hairpin bends to [[Pyin U Lwin]], and then across the mountains and the famous bridge at Gokteik, is one of the great railway journeys of the world. Trains in lower Mandalay, Yangon-Pathein and Yangon-Mawlymaing, are little communities of their own with hawkers selling everything imaginable. Sleepers are available on many overnight express trains, although in the high season you may want to reserve a few days in advance. Tickets go on sale three days in advance. At some stations there is a separate counter for advance bookings, or even a separate building (e.g., in Yangon). Food service is available on the express in both directions between Yangon and Mandalay. Except for the new bridge and rail line that connects [[Mawlamyine]] to points on the west side of the Salween River, the rail network is exactly the way it was in British times. The most-used line is the 325km line from Yangon to Mandalay with several trains a day. It is the only double line in Myanmar, and also the only one that is competitive in time with buses. The fastest trains take 15 hr for the 385km run, an effective rate of 25km/hour. A second line connects Yangon with Pyay, 9 hr for the 175&nbsp;km journey, with a branch heading off into the delta region town of Pathein. These tracks, the earliest constructed, are in poor shape. With the construction of the bridge across the Salween, it is now possible to go by train from Yangon to Mawlamyine, 8 hr for the 200km journey, and on to Ye and Dawei. From Mandalay, trains continue on to Myitkyina in Kachin State, 350km in 24 hr, and to Lashio. There are also rail connections between Yangon-Bagan and Mandalay-Bagan, but bus or ferry are better alternatives: the 175km from Mandalay to Bagan takes 10 hours. There is railway service between Yangon-Bagan. 16 hr, first class US$30, upper class US$40, sleeper US$50. (check new prices) Train tickets cannot be paid in dollars any more, and the government has abandoned the former dual-pricing structure that saw tourists pay inflated prices. === By boat === There is also a large river ferry network. Both are to a large extent run by the government, although there are now some private ferry services. The trip from Mandalay to Bagan takes the better part of a day, from Bagan to Yangon is several days. === By bus === {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ ''' Bus travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 11 hr || 10,400 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || 10 hr || 12,000 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 4 hr || 6,000 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 2 hr || 1,500 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 5.5 hr || 4,500 |} Buses of all types ply the roads of Myanmar. Luxury (relatively speaking) buses do the Mandalay-Yangon run while lesser vehicles can get travellers to other places. Fares are reasonable and in kyat and buses are faster than the trains. Many long-distance buses assign seats, so it is best to book seats at least a day in advance. Because the roads are bad, avoid the rear of the bus and try to sit as far up front as you can. Long-distance buses also have an extra jump seat that blocks the aisle and, because it is not well secured to the chassis, can be uncomfortable (which also means that there is no such thing as a side seat where taller people can stretch their legs). A window near the front of the bus is always the best option. Even budget travellers will find themselves buying more tickets via their hotel or an agency rather than going to the bus company to buy it directly. Their offices are often located far from any tourist place and the cost of going there and back will most likely exceed the commission your hotel will get for selling you the ticket. Shop around and compare prices before buying your ticket as some vendors include a free pick-up from your hotel. A bus ticket scam seems to be popular in Yangon. While many make a stopover in Bago, they are told at their guesthouse or at the bus station it's not possible to buy tickets there in the direction to Mandalay. In a country where everything might be possible when it comes to transport, some people fall for this. Actually, this is not the case and tracking back to Yangon for a bus ticket up north is not necessary at all. Bago has a bus terminal with several bus offices. Buying your ticket at Bago might be slightly cheaper (depending upon your bargaining skills) and gives you more freedom for the rest of your journey. The adjoining table summarises travel times and approximate fares between important tourist destinations in Myanmar. Most bus fares have gone up with the fuel price rises, so the fares listed are rough estimates. === By pick-up === Old pick-up trucks run everywhere in Myanmar, cheaply ferrying men, women, children, and monks from one place to another. The rear of the truck is converted into a canvas-covered sitting area with three benches, one on each side and one running along the centre of the truck (some smaller trucks have only two rows), and the running board is lowered and fixed into place providing room for six or more people to stand on (holding on to the truck frame). Pick-ups are ubiquitous in Myanmar and every town has a central point somewhere from where they depart to places both near and far. Tourists who go off the beaten track will find them indispensable because often the only alternative is an expensive taxi or private car. The basics of pickups are fairly straightforward, wait till it is reasonably full before heading out. On well-travelled routes (Mandalay-Pyin U Lwin, for example), they fill up quickly and the journey is quick. On less well-travelled routes ([[Bhamo]]-[[Katha]], for example), passengers arrive (early, usually around 06:00), mark their place, and then hang around drinking tea and chatting until the truck fills up. When the pick-up does get moving, it may linger or go out of its way in the hope of picking up more passengers. The inside of a pick-up can be hot and uncomfortable. Passengers, packed in like sardines, face away from the windows (which are tiny) and into the truck. Standing on the running board can be tiring and tough on the arms. The window side seat next to the driver is very comfortable and well-worth the little extra that you have to pay, so it is best to go early and reserve that seat. === By car === [[File:20160729 traffic in Mandalay 5761.jpg|thumb|Busy street in Mandalay]] You can hire a private car and driver at reasonable rates to tour independently. The licensed guides at Shwedagon Paya in Yangon can arrange to have a driver with a car meet you at your hotel. Another way is to arrange for a car through a travel agency, though it can be quite expensive. You can "test" the driver and the car by driving around the city for 10 or 15 minutes. If you are satisfied, a departure date and time and per diem rates (inclusive of petrol) can be negotiated. Some guides are willing to travel with you to serve as interpreters. Traffic drives on the '''right''' in Myanmar, but confusingly, Myanmar has a mixture of left- and right-hand-drive cars, with the majority of vehicles being right-hand-drive as a result of being second-hand imports from Japan or Thailand. Road travel to tourist destinations is generally safe, although some roads may be rough. Highways are often 2-lane, and cars often pass one another recklessly. That being said, driving habits are not quite as aggressive as say, [[Vietnam]]. Allow two days to drive from Yangon to Bagan in fair weather. Pyay is a good stopover point. Allow a day to drive from Bagan to Inle Lake. In cities, it is considered illegal to cross an amber light without stopping. Despite having crossed 3/4 of the way, you will be required to stop in the middle of the road and make your way back in reverse! Accidents and fatalities are common. Night-time road travel is not recommended, and medical facilities are limited in rural areas. At government hospitals, bribes may be required for services. Make sure needles are new or carry your own. HIV is a major problem in Myanmar. ===By taxi=== All taxis (and by extension all vehicles for transport of people and goods) have red/white licence plates, while private vehicles have a black/white licence plate. Tourist agency-owned cars have a blue/white licence plate. ===By ride-hailing=== The main ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/mm/en/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former South-east Asian operations, including that of Myanmar. Uber's short-lived venture into Myanmar occurred just one year prior to its takeover by Grab. In common with Grab's operations elsewhere in Southeast Asia, cash is not required as you can use the Grab app to pay with your card, though cash remains readily accepted. === By motorbike === In Yangon, riding motorcycles is illegal. Mandalay's streets, on the other hand, are filled with them. === By bicycle === In many places you can easily rent a bicycle for about 1,500 kyat per day to move around in your own pace. Around Inle Lake, cycling is a relaxing way to get to the next village or lake viewpoint. Mandalay is laid out on a grid which makes it very easy to navigate while cycling. Tourists used to pedal bicycles around the sights of Bagan, across difficult sandy paths under the hot sun, however electric bicycles are now the norm. At around ten times the price of a conventional bicycle, they are well worth the money. === On foot === Cars and pedestrians may not follow the established rules, and crossing the road can be difficult. Drivers will almost never yield to pedestrians, even on striped pedestrian crossings. ==See== [[File:InleRowing.jpg|300px|thumb|Leg rowing, Inle Lake]] Myanmar has not been a popular destination in Southeast Asia as visitors have been largely deterred by the country's volatile politics and restrictions placed on travel. But the political and travel situation has been improving notably since 2015. The country is a true, unspoiled treasure trove, and should capture the imagination of anyone interested in culture and history. Walking around [[Yangon]] brings you back to the time of 19th-century British colonial rule. Sparkling-clean parks and temples stand side by side decayed colonial-style buildings and deep potholes. Its cultural and religious attractions, like the '''Shwedagon Pagoda''', add to the city's feel of exoticism, as do the smiles of the locals. Every street corner brings something new—and a short ferry over the river even gives you a glimpse of rural life in the country. Cities of cultural and historical interest close to Yangon are [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] with its Buddhist sights, the delta town of [[Twante]] known for its pottery, and the pilgrimage site of [[Kyaiktiyo]] with its gold-gilded rock balancing precariously over a cliff. It's definitely worth it to further explore the Bamar heartland. Unfortunately some outer fringes of the country are off-limits to foreigners, but it's always worth checking the latest situation with people on the ground as things move so fast that the Internet rarely if ever has correct information. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703742020).jpg|thumb|Pyin U Lwin]] The former city of [[Bagan]] is a gem, and gives a glimpse of what life in the 11th and 12th centuries here must have been like. Marco Polo described it as the "gilded city alive with tinkling bells and the swishing sounds of monks' robes". It is the largest and densest concentration of Buddhist temples, pagodas, stupas and ruins in the world. [[Mrauk U]] is a sleepy village today but its crumbling pagodas and temples remind of the early modern period, when it was the capital city of an empire involved in extensive maritime trade with Portuguese, Dutch, French and Arab traders. Within a daytrip from [[Mandalay]] is [[Inwa]], another former capital where ruins remain to remind visitors of its former glory. Also don't miss [[Pyin U Lwin]], a former British hill station with somewhat cooler temperatures. The country has its fair share of '''natural attractions'''. [[Inle Lake]] is popular with backpackers, and it is one of the few places that is starting to feel like a tourist trap. Still, a trip to Myanmar is not complete without a boat trip on the lake. It has a unique vibe with tribes living in stilt houses and paddling their traditional wooden boats with one leg. The country's long southwestern coastline also has a few '''beaches''', such as [[Chaung Tha]] and [[Ngapali]]. If you visit outside of the traditional holiday season, you might just have a beautiful white sand beach for yourself. Myanmar is a country inhabited with dozens of ethnic groups, but sites from the major '''independent Burmese kingdoms''' dating from the 9th century can be seen in sections of the country. ==Do== [[File:Chinlone Burma.jpg|thumb|Burmese men playing chinlone]] Myanmar is an excellent country for '''trekking'''. [[Kalaw]] is a centre for trekking, and has miles and miles of trails through mountains and hill tribe villages. [[Kengtung]] is also known for its hiking paths to hill tribe villages, while [[Hsipaw]] has some great treks to waterfalls. '''Birdwatching''' can be done around [[Inle Lake]]. Myanmar's national sport is '''chinlone''', played with a small rattan ball. The objective of the game is to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible without using one's arms or hands, and to do it as beautifully as possible. Spectacular '''scuba diving''' and unspoiled beaches abound in the Mergui Archipelago in [[southeastern Myanmar]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Myanmar kyat (official rates) | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;kyat | date=January 2025 | USD=2,100 | EUR=2,500 | GBP=2,800 | CNY=285 | INR=25 | THB=605 | SGD=1,530 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mmk-burmese-kyat xe.com]}} {{infobox|Currency Games |Myanmar is still predominantly a cash economy. However, ATMs are widespread. In a misguided attempt to fight rampant black marketeering, the Myanmar government has a habit of ''declaring notes to be worthless'': this happened first in 1964. In 1985, the 20, 50, and 100 kyat notes were withdrawn again and replaced with new kyat notes in the unusual denominations of 25, 35, and 75, possibly chosen because of dictator general Ne Win's predilection for numerology; the 75-kyat note was introduced on his 75th birthday. In 1987, the government demonetized the 25, 35, and 75 kyat notes with no prior warning, rendering some 75% of the country's currency worthless. A new series of 15, 45, and 90-kyat notes was issued, incorporating Ne Win's favourite number 9. The resulting economic disturbances led to serious riots and eventually the 1989 coup by General Saw Maung. The post-coup notes come in more normal denominations from 1–1,000 kyat, and this time the old ones remain legal tender, so far.}} Myanmar's currency is the '''kyat''', pronounced "chat". Prices may be shown locally using the abbreviation of '''K''' (singular or plural) or '''Ks''' (plural) either before or after the amount and depending very much on who is doing the sign writing. The ISO abbreviation is '''MMK'''. Wikivoyage articles will use ''kyat'' to denote the currency. ''Pya'' are coins, and are rarely seen since their value has become increasingly insignificant with even the largest 50 pya coin worth less than US$0.001. Banknotes of Myanmar are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 kyats. You may also come across 20, 10, 5, and 1 ''kyat'' and 50 ''pya'' banknotes. They are valid but rarely found and best held onto as souvenirs. Older banknotes in strange denominations are sold to tourists and, while typically genuine, are rarely if ever valuable. The notes of 50 kyat, 100 kyat, 200 kyat, and 500 kyat are usually in a horrible condition, but are generally accepted when making small purchases. The 1,000 kyat notes are slightly better. 5,000 and 10,000 kyat notes always appear new after exchanging foreign currencies. When exchanging money, check that the banknotes you receive are in a generally good condition. If the exchange gives you kyat notes in horrible condition, you can ask them to exchange them for notes in better condition. Dispose of remaining kyat before leaving. Outside of Myanmar, kyat is almost worthless but do make nice souvenirs. Kyat cannot be legally exchanged abroad, though some money changers in places with large overseas Burmese populations such as [[Singapore]] will exchange anyway, but at terrible rates. Kyat can be exchanged on departure from Yangon Airport at decent rates. ====US dollars==== {{infobox|Is it safe?|So, you're travelling around carrying hundreds, if not thousands, of U.S. dollars stuffed into your pockets in a country where most people subsist on a few dollars a day. Everyone around you knows that if they could get their hands on the money in your pockets, they will be rich for life. What, you may ask, are the odds that someone will try to relieve you of your money? The answer: almost nil. There have been very few instances of a tourist being mugged and only the rare cases of pilfering. Myanmar is an extremely safe country for travellers. Some say it is because of the nature of the people. Others say it is because the punishment for robbing from a foreigner is draconian, whilst others say it is because of Buddhism, which prohibits people from taking what is not given.}} Foreigners are no longer required to pay in U.S. dollars for hotels, tourist attractions, rail and air tickets, ferry travel and for bus tickets. As of 2015, foreign currency instability and the weakening kyat means that many venues will state prices in U.S. dollars, even though it is illegal to do so. Expat restaurants still often quote in U.S. dollars despite actions from the Central Bank prohibiting excess dollar usage. It is illegal for a Myanmar citizen to accept (or hold) U.S. dollars without a licence, but this law is mostly ignored and U.S. dollars are generally accepted. Never insist, though, because it may be dangerous for the receiver. Bring very clean, unfolded U.S. dollars (or they will not be accepted by hotels, restaurants and money changers). Even small imperfections can be cause to reject a U.S. banknote. Keep all U.S. dollars in impeccable condition, and do not fold them. If you do end up with a few, try using them for purchases rather than exchange, or try to exchange them in a few different places. ====ATMs==== There are plenty of ATMs all across the country accepting international Visa and MasterCard. The bigger and more touristic the place the more ATMs it has. Smaller tourist destinations also have ATMs (Bagu, Hpa-An, etc.), but not so many. Make sure to carry a buffer outside of major tourist hotspots. If an ATM does not work, try the next one. Usual withdrawal limit is 300,000 kyat with a processing fee of 5,000 kyat. In case you run out of money, ask your taxi driver to drive you to the CB Bank ATM. '''Note''': Your bank may refuse to process ATM transactions with some/all banks in Myanmar, even if the ATM accepts Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank prior to entering the country. ====Credit cards==== Upmarket tourist places (hotels, agencies, restaurants) are accepting credit cards (and will surcharge accordingly). So you can even pay with mastercard in a store in the middle of Inle Lake for purchases value more than US$100. But nonetheless paper money is the only way to pay in most places. Beside the ATMs, there are places (e.g. hotels in Yangon) where cash can be obtained with a credit card (''cash advance''), but the rates are extremely uncompetitive (with premiums certainly no lower than around 7%, and with quotes of 30% and more frequently reported). Also, they may need to see your passport to process the transaction. For US citizens, it is also possible to receive funds from friends or relatives in an emergencies through the US Embassy. ====Money exchange==== The foreign currency of choice in Myanmar is the US dollar, though you can readily also exchange euros and Singapore dollars in Yangon and Mandalay, but perhaps not beyond. Other options are the Chinese Yuan and Thai Baht. The best rates are in Yangon and Mandalay. Major foreign currencies need to be in good condition—other currencies like rupees and baht are often accepted even if worn out. The military junta re-imposed currency controls in 2021, again leading to a yawning gap between the official rate (fixed at 2100 kyat/dollar) and the black market rate, which ranged from 3,400 to 5,600/dollar in 2024. Banks and money changers only sell kyat at the official rate. Exchanging on the '''black market is illegal''': sellers risking jail time and the junta periodically cracks down. Especially on holidays and Sundays, all your necessary money should be changed at the airport as banks in town are closed. Money changers offer significantly lower rates (5-10% lower) for changing US dollars and euros. The most hassle-free option is to change all your required money at the airport, depending on the rate to change it back. Look around different banks for the best exchange rate. Be sure to bring a mix of foreign denominations when visiting Myanmar because money changers will sometimes not give change and smaller notes (in good condition) are useful for some entry fees and transport. Even though, larger bills give the best exchange rates at banks. Ensure that foreign notes are: * Unmarked – No stamps, anti-counterfeit pen, ink or any other mark on them at all. Pencil can be removed with a good eraser, but any permanent marks will greatly decrease a note's value and ability to be exchanged. * Fresh, crisp and as close to brand new as possible – Moneychangers have been known to reject notes just for being creased and/or lightly worn. * Undamaged – No tears, missing bits and pieces, holes, repairs or anything of that sort. * Preferably of the new design, with the larger portrait, and the multiple-colour prints. Although, old-style US$1 are still commonly traded. * For US$100 bills, have no serial numbers starting "CB". This is because they are associated with a counterfeit "superbill" which was in circulation some time ago. '''Scams''': * There are a number of tricks and scams running around Myanmar trapping tourists who are carrying US dollars. Sometimes, guesthouses or traders will try and pass you damaged or nonexchangeable bills in change. Always inspect all notes when making a purchase and request that the vendor swap any notes you think you will have trouble using down the track—this is perfectly acceptable behaviour for both vendors and customers, so don't be shy. * Some money changers will also attempt sleight of hand tricks to either swap your good banknotes for damaged, or lower denomination notes. Other reports suggest that the kyats may be counted and then somehow, some disappear from the table during the transaction. For example, after going through an elaborate counting process for piles of ten 1,000 kyat notes, some money changers will pull some notes out as they count the piles of ten. * When changing money, be sure that, after any money is counted, it is not touched by anyone until the deal is sealed. Also do not allow your dollars or major foreign currencies to be removed from your sight until all is agreed; in fact, it is not even necessary to pull out your US dollars until your are paying for the kyats you received. It sounds extreme, but ending up in a country where you cannot access whatever savings you have, and having a good portion of your budget rendered useless (until you get to more relaxed changers in Bangkok) can really put a dampener on your plans. ====Travellers cheques==== Travellers cheques are '''not accepted''' in Myanmar. The only exception might be some especially shady money changer, but be prepared to pay an astronomical commission (30% is not uncommon). ===Shopping=== When visiting tourist attractions, you will likely be swarmed by local hawkers, many of them children, trying to sell you souvenirs. Be sure to [[Bargaining|bargain]] hard should you decide to buy from them. Owing to decades of repressive military rule, a great many service and travel-oriented companies have strong links to the military. These are vital ways for the military to earn money, particularly foreign currency. If you wish to avoid spending money at military-owned or military-associated businesses, download the [https://waywaynay.com/ Way Way Nay Boycott app]. ====Tipping==== Tipping is generally not practised by the Burmese themselves. However, given widespread poverty in the country, tips are certainly appreciated if you have been provided with exemplary service. Tips that are charged to a credit card almost never make it to the service staff, so if you wish to tip, make sure you hand it over in cash to the person who served you. ====Costs==== Despite being less developed, Myanmar is expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or Vietnam. This is particularly true of hotel prices in the main tourists areas, as demand far outstrips supply. Similarly, the lack of competition from budget airlines has also made domestic flights rather expensive. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703766279).jpg|thumb|Night market in Pyin U Lwin]] It's not possible to be comfortable on less than US$25/day (May 2013). Foreigners will likely be charged fees, including video camera, camera, entrance, parking and zone fees. Most managed tourist site charge for carrying cameras of any sort into the area. Double rooms with private bathroom are nearly always more than US$20, in Yangon a double room without bathroom costs US$20. Dorm beds are around US$10 (or US$8 if you accept to lose a lot of value) (Sep 2015). While you cannot save on accommodation, you can save on food. Street food can get as low as US$0.30 for 2 small curries with 2 Indian breads, US$1 for a normal (vegetarian) dish. Even in touristy places like Bagan dishes cost under US$1 (vegetarian) and US$2 (meat). A draught Myanmar beer (5%) is around 600 kyat, a bottle of Myanmar beer (650 ml) is around 1,700 kyat, a bottle of Mandalay beer (6.5%, 650 ml) around 1,200 kyat. ====What to buy==== * '''Antiques''' – Purchasing antiquities and antiques in Myanmar is at best a legal grey area with the 2015 passage of the new Antiquities Law, and often illegal for any item over 100 years old. Penalties include prison and fines. It is recommended to avoid purchasing antiques as a tourist, unless you're willing to get an export permit from the Ministry of Culture on your way out and you have enough knowledge to avoid the fakes. Replicas and fakes are rife in Bogyoke market and other anitque stores frequented by tourists. It is against the law to export religious antiques (manuscripts, Buddhas, etc.) * '''Art''' – The Myanmar Art market has exploded, with local artists' works going for good values in Yangon and Mandalay. Visit the numerous galleries in Yangon to get a feel for available works. Art is often related to Buddhism and the difficult socio-political situation, as well as more traditional Victorian-influenced subjects like markets, old women smoking cigars, tribal members, and monks. There is a lot of cheap/mass-painted and derivative works at Bogyoke Market. * '''[[Gemstones]]''' – Myanmar is best known as for its [[jade]] and [[rubies]] (the granting of a license to the French over the ruby mines in [[Mogok]] was one of the causes leading to the Third Burmese War), and also produces some really fine [[sapphires]]. These can be obtained at a fraction of what it would cost in the West. There are a lot of fakes for sale amid the genuine stuff and, unless you know your gems, buy from an official government store or risk being cheated. Bogoyoke Aung San Market and the Myanmar Gems Museum in [[Yangon]] has many licensed shops and is generally a safe place for the purchase of these stones. The jade market in [[Mandalay]] is also worth a visit, where most of the jade is brought from the mines to be sold to merchants, and you can observe merchants haggling over the prices of both raw jade and various jade items in all stages of the production process. You can also purchase some jade trinkets yourself, but be prepared to haggle, and make sure you do your homework before buying or you risk getting ripped off. * '''Lacquerware''' – A popular purchase, which is made into bowls, cups, vases, tables and various items, and is available almost anywhere. The traditional centre of lacquerware production is [[Bagan]] in [[Central Myanmar]], and most tours include a stop at one of the local lacquerware factories where you can purchase one of these. Beware of fraudulent lacquer ware, though, which is poorly made, but looks authentic. As a guide, the stiffer the lacquer, the poorer the quality; the more you can bend and twist it, the finer the quality. * '''Tapestries''' – Known as ''kalaga'', or ''shwe chi doe''. There is a long tradition of weaving tapestries in Burma. These are decorated with gold and silver thread and sequins and usually depict tales from the Buddhist scriptures (the ''jatakas'') or other non-secular objects from Burmese Buddhism (mythical animals, the ''hintha'', and the ''kalong'' are also popular subjects). The tapestry tradition is dying out but many are made for tourists and are available in Mandalay and Yangon. Burmese tapestries don't last long, so be warned if someone tries to sell you an antique ''shwe chi doe''! * '''Textiles''' – Textiles in Myanmar are stunning. Each region and each ethnic group has its own style. Chin fabrics are particularly stunning. They are handwoven in intricate geometric patterns, often in deep reds and mossy greens and white. They can be quite pricey, perhaps US$20 for the cloth to make a longyi (sarong). ==Eat== [[File:Outdoor café, Yangon, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Outdoor café in Yangon]] Burmese food is influenced by that of India and China, yet unique. Apart from Burmese food, other ethnic traditional foods such as Shan food, Rakhine food, and Myeik food are also distinct. Rice is at the core of Burmese food, and good vegetarian food is widely available. Burmese food is often extremely pungent. Similar to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, '''fish sauce''' (ငံပြာရည် ''ngan bya yay'') is a very popular condiment in Myanmar, and is used to flavour many dishes. Food is inexpensive at most restaurants (priced at 500–3,000 kyat per item at most local restaurants, but can go as high as 8,000 kyat at posh restaurants). There are many up-market restaurants in Yangon and Mandalay. The majority of low-to-mid-priced restaurants use a cheap blend of palm oil for cooking. This oil may be unhealthy, and common roadside restaurants should be avoided if you are at the slightest risk for hypertension, heart disease, or other fat- or cholesterol-related conditions. Higher class restaurants may use peanut oil instead. Specific dishes include: [[File:Chapati and mutton curry.JPG|thumb|Chapati and mutton curry]] * '''Curry''' &ndash; Burmese people have a very different definition of curry than other countries. It is very spicy compared to Indian and Thai options, and although you may find it served at room temperature in cheaper restaurants, in a typical Burmese home all curry dishes are served hot. Burmese curry does not contain coconut milk, unlike its other SE Asian counterparts, and has a large quantity of onion or tomato depending on region and cook's preference. Myanmar is the highest per-capita consumer of onions in the world. Quite often Burmese curries are cooked with lots of oil, much more than other regional curries. * '''Samosa thoke''' (samosa salad) &ndash; A popular street dish of chickpeas, potatoes, tomato, cabbage, mint and a smashed samosa. * '''Mohinga''' (pronounced ''mo-HIN-ga'') &ndash; A dish of rice vermicelli with fish chowder, usually accompanied by coriander and chili powder. Its taste can range from sweet to spicy, and is usually eaten at breakfast. It is considered by many to be the national dish, and is widely available throughout the country, albeit in different styles in different regions. * '''Mote lin-mayar''' (Couples snacks) &ndash; Small tiny pancakes with chives, chickpeas or quail eggs. * '''Sticky rice''' &ndash; Served plain or with turmeric or black rice * '''Nan Gyi Thoke''' (pronounced ''nan gyi thou'') &ndash; A special dish of rice noodle salad with chicken sauce. It is mostly eaten in mid-Myanmar. * '''Onnokauswe''' (pronounced ''oun-NO-kao-sui'') &ndash; A dish of thicker noodles in a thick soup of coconut milk with chicken. It is served with a variety of condiments accompanying it, ranging from fried fruit fritters to solidified duck blood. "Khao soi"("noodle" in Shan), often found on the streets of Chiang Mai, is derived from this Burmese counterpart. It is also comparable to the spicier laksa often found in peninsular SE countries like Malaysia and Singapore. * '''Shan food''' &ndash; The Shan are an ethnic group who inhabit Shan State around Inle lake, near the Thai border. Their food is marvelous. It can be found in Yangon easily. :* '''Shan tofu''' &ndash; Made with mung beans instead of soya beans these yellow blocks are served fried or in a cold noodle salad. :* '''Laphet thote''' (pronounced ''la-peh THOU'') &ndash; A salad of fermented tea leaves and a variety of fried nuts. It is commonly mixed with sliced lettuce, and is eaten with rice. * '''Chinese food''' &ndash; Available in most cities and usually authentic, if plain. * '''Kachin food''' &ndash; Mainly available in Kachin State, though a number of Kachin restaurants can be found in Yangon and Mandalay. Kachin food is less oily and uses less MSG than Burmese food, and you may find it a good alternative if Burmese curries are not to your liking. == Drink == '''Tap water''' in Myanmar is not safe to drink, however factory-made ice in restaurants and other shops is OK. '''Bottled water''' is readily available. You can also safely drink from the many clay jars dotted around the country, or find safe drinking water in temples. Just look for the large steel tanks with cups tied to the spigots. Water in the clay jars is filtered and many Myanmar people use them. Owners of the jars fill them up with water as a way to make merit. Similar to Chinese tea, ''Yenwejan'' is usually provided free at restaurant tables. While not flavourful, it is boiled water, and so safe to drink (do not drink plain water - even in restaurants - unless it is bottled water). Dried tea leaves similar to Laphet thote's tea leaves (except these are wet) are added to the boiled water to give ''Yenwejan''. Be sure to order it with ''Laphet thote'' (customary/good combination). '''Milk tea''' (လက်ဖက်ရည် ''La-Phet-Yay'') is also popular in Myanmar and widely available in the local markets and teahouses but beware: the Burmese like their milk teas very, ''very'' sweet. '''Alcohol''' is frowned upon by conservative Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, but consumed widely, mostly among men. Myanmar Beer is most popular in the country. Other variants, including Mandalay Beer exist. However, many of such companies are government-owned and/or have links to the drug trade. '''Toddy juice''' (''ta-YEI'') is popular in central Myanmar, and is made from fermented palm sugar. An alcoholic drink popular in the Shan State is '''Shwe le maw''', and is reportedly very strong. It is also possible to buy full strength Beer Chang imported from Thailand; exports to most countries are not nearly as strong. Beware of alcoholic drinks served in the far northern states. The locals refer to it as '''alcohol which does not burn''' when lit, and it is widely suspected to be an opiate concoction rather than a fermented beverage. There are a lot of nightclubs, including those attached to the five star hotels (e.g. Grand Plaza), and also local entertainment centres (e.g. JJs, Asia plaza). === Teahouses === [[File:Myanmar Tea House Food.jpg|thumb|Tea and snacks at a tea house]] Teahouses are important places of social gathering and popular throughout the country. They look like restaurants but if you watch closely you will notice that people are drinking a lot of Chinese tea (free), light brown tea and are mainly snacking. Some teahouses also offer simple dishes as fried rice or noodles. Once seated they will expect you to order coffee but that's not what you should go for as it is almost always instant coffee. Order tea, a type of black tea with milk that differ in strength and sweetness: *''bone mahn'': balanced *''cho seh'': sweet *''kyaw p'daung'': sweeter *''pan brown'': bitter and sweet *''jah hseent'': light, with milk, not strong *''pancho'': strong *''bow hseent'': less strong *''noe hseent dee'': milk tea without sugar You will completely mispronounce the tea names (second and sixth are relatively easy) and people might not get what you want at all since it's rare for foreigners to order these teas. So it's better to ask your hotel or any local speaking English to write down the names in Burmese. Since you are a foreigner they will assume that you want your tea ''sheh'' - special - which means it will come with condensed milk. It's also possible to order a ''tankie'' and so the tea will come in a big pot. A simple cup of tea costs 200-400 kyat. Small snacks like samosas, cakes or sweet balls are readily available at the table. If not, ask. At the end you will only pay for the number of pieces eaten. Foodies should check out the type of snacks before deciding on a teahouse. It is not impolite at all to bring your own food, as long as you order at least ''something''. == Sleep == [[File:Sule-Pagoda by-Night.jpg|thumb|Night in Yangon]] Myanmar has good hotel accommodation, particularly in major cities and the main tourist areas, though prices are substantially higher than in [[Thailand]] or [[Vietnam]]. Rooms with attached bath are available for under US$10 everywhere except Yangon and with shared bath for anywhere from US$3–6 in most places. Almost every hotel licensed for foreigners has running hot water (though, in remote areas, availability may be restricted to certain hours of the day). Hotels, with a few exceptions, are usually clean. At the budget end, sheets and blankets may be threadbare and the rooms may be poorly ventilated. A few low-end hotels, particularly in Yangon and other large cities, specialize in cubicle rooms, small single rooms with no windows which, while cheap and clean, are not for the claustrophobic. Rates are quoted as single/double, but the rooms are usually the same whether one person or two stay in the room, making good hotels a real bargain if travelling as a couple. Except at the top-end, breakfast is always included in the price of the room. The tourism boom in Myanmar has left its infrastructure struggling to cope with the increased numbers of visitors. Hotel rooms tend to sell out really fast, and those in popular tourist destinations often sell out months in advance. As a result of the lack of supply, prices have also increased substantially. You should make your hotel bookings well in advance of your planned trip to Myanmar in order not to be stranded when you arrive. Wild camping is not legal in Myanmar. Myanmar has a problem providing enough electricity to its people and power supply is severely restricted everywhere. In many places, electricity may be available only for a few hours each evening or, in some cases, only every alternate evening. If you don't want to spend your nights without a fan or air conditioning, ask if the hotel has a generator (most mid-priced hotels do). On generator nights, the air conditioning in your room may not work (the price is usually lower as well). Even if a hotel has a generator, there is no guarantee that it will be used to provide you electricity at the times you require, so be ready for blackouts at any time of day or night. Major tourist hotels in Yangon and Mandalay have near-uninterrupted electricity supply, but can cost anywhere from US$80–300 per night. At the top-end, Myanmar has some excellent hotels including one or two great ones (The Strand in Yangon and Kandawgyi Palace Hotel in Yangon). The Myanmar government runs many hotels, including some beautiful colonial era ones (though not the two listed in the previous sentence). A percentage of all accommodation payments goes to the government, no matter where you choose to stay, and it is not possible to run a successful business in Myanmar without some relationship or payment arrangement with the military. == Work == {{overseasjobscam|Myanmar, particularly in the areas along the Thai border. In many cases, victims are lured to Thailand with a job offer, then trafficked across the border into Myanmar}} Work in Myanmar for foreigners is hard to come by. NGOs and other aid groups operate in the capital and remote rural areas but may require specific skill sets to hire you. Another option is European and Asian companies, mostly operating on a small scale. Teaching English is feasible in private schools but many foreigners have reported unreasonable contracts, such as withholding pay and refusing to pay those who resign early. The education ministry only hires citizens with teaching certification. If you would like to work and assist Burmese refugees, certain NGOs work in neighbouring [[Thailand]]. == Stay safe == === Crime === The government punishes crime, particularly against tourists, severely; as a result, as far as crime and personal safety go, Myanmar is extremely safe for tourists, and it is generally safe to walk on the streets alone at night. In fact, you are less likely to be a victim of crime in Myanmar than in [[Thailand]] or [[Malaysia]]. However, as with anywhere else, little crime does not mean no crime and it is still no excuse to ditch your common sense. As a foreigner, the most common crime you should be worried about is petty theft, so keep your belongings secured. Physical and verbal harassment towards foreigners is uncommon, even on urban walks near bars. Since 2005, [[Yangon]] and [[Mandalay]] have seen a barely perceptible rise in the very low level of street robberies. There were isolated bombings in 2005 in Mandalay and Yangon, and in 2006 in [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]. === Illegal substances === {{Warningbox|Drug offences are '''''severely punished''''' by the Burmese authorities. Convicted offenders can expect to face lengthy prison sentences. |us = https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Burma.html |canada = https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar }} ===Begging=== Despite traditional taboos against it, [[begging]] has become a major problem in the main tourist areas such as [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] and [[Bagan]]. Children and "mothers" carrying babies are often the ones who beg as they are more effective at soliciting pity. Most beggars are part of larger begging syndicates or just after easy money, as tourists are usually seen to be rich. In addition, the poor can always obtain food for free from the nearest monastery if they can't afford to pay for it, so begging is not necessary for their survival. If you choose to give, note that most Burmese earn only US$40 a month doing manual labour and so giving US$1 to a beggar is ''very'' generous. ===Fake monks=== Theravada Buddhism is the main religion in Myanmar, and it is customary for monks to go on alms rounds in the morning. Unfortunately, there are also many bogus monks who hang out around the main tourist attractions preying on unsuspecting visitors. Alms rounds are solely for the purpose of collecting food: genuine monks are forbidden from accepting, or even touching money. Monks are forbidden from eating after noon, and are also not allowed to sell items or use high pressure tactics to solicit donations. Authentic monks are often found in single file lines with their alms bowls. If you see a single monk requesting money from foreigners he is a fraud. === Corruption === Myanmar is one of the world's most corrupt countries. Officials and other civil servants may discreetly ask you for a bribe, or invent issues (missing forms, closed offices, etc.) in order to get you to suggest one. Pretending not to understand or asking to speak to a superior may work. However, white visitors are rarely targeted, while those of Asian descent (including South Asians and East Asians) may be forced to give bribes, but the brunt of the problem hits normal Burmese. Westerners are very rarely asked for bribes, although most bribes are a US dollar or less, and requested by people earning as little as US$30/month. === Driving conditions === [[File:Jampacked car in Kalaw (Myanmar 2013) (11773361556).jpg|thumb|One of many right-hand drive vehicles imported from Japan into Myanmar. These cause inherent visibility problems when driving on the right side of the road]] The poor road infrastructure, and a mixture of extremely ancient vehicles on the country's roads are all what best describe the road conditions. However, driving habits are not very aggressive compared to say, [[Vietnam]], which does make the safety of the roads comfortable for almost everyone. Although rare, youths sometimes compete against each other on the roads, which has led to some casualties over the past few years. Bus drivers are among the worst dangers, although this is somewhat less of an issue since 2010 due to new, very harsh penalties imposed on bus drivers involved in accidents. Surprisingly, Burma has a mixture of both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, with the majority being right-hand drive (used imports from Japan) but driving is generally done on the right side of the roads. Unless you have experience driving in countries with poorly disciplined drivers and very shabby vehicles, try to avoid driving in Myanmar; alternatively, arrange for a local driver to take you around. === Civil conflict === Various insurgent groups continue to operate in the '''Mon, and Chin (Zomi), states''' of Myanmar, along the Thai and Chinese borders. Travel to these regions generally requires a government permit. The government also sometimes restricts travel to '''Kayah State, Rakhine State, and Kachin State''' due to insurgent activity. However travel is entirely unrestricted to the districts of Yangon, Bago, Ayeyarwady, Sagaing, Taninthayi, Mandalay, and Magwe. Some areas that have been reported as closed have become open without notice, and areas previously regarded as open can become closed with no warning. In addition, local immigration offices may have their own interpretations of regulations. === Politics === [[File:Propaganda, Myanmar 2.jpg|thumb|"Tatmadaw [Armed Forces] and the people in eternal unity. Anyone attempting to divide them is our enemy."]] Myanmar is again under harsh military rule as it was from 1962 - 2012, with a reputation for repressing dissent, as in the case of the house arrest of democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi. There used to be more than 1,500 political prisoners (sentences of 65 years and hard labor in remote camps were given to leaders of the Saffron Revolution), although some have been released. When in Myanmar, abstain from political activities and don't insult the government. Discuss politics, if you must, with people who have had time to get a feel for you. The danger, however, is primarily posed to those you speak with, so let them lead the conversation. Also, realize that many phone lines are tapped. And if you absolutely must wave a democracy banner on the street, you'll simply find yourself on the next outbound flight. Between 2012–2020, liberty in general increased under the new government. A few politically critical articles have been published in government newspapers and a satirical film deriding the government's film censorship policy has been released, neither of which would have been possible even in 2010. Returning visitors to Myanmar may find that locals have become ever so slightly more open to discussions regarding politics. However, under any circumstances avoid doing things that might make the military or police feel uncomfortable, such as taking pictures of police and police buildings or vehicles. == Stay healthy == Hygiene in Myanmar may seem terrible to the average Westerner but it is possible to stay healthy with some basic precautions such as prophylactic medication, care choosing food and water, and antibacterial ointment. '''Never drink [[tap water]]'''. Restaurants are legally required to use ice made and sold by bottled water companies, so ordering ice is usually safe in major places. Always drink bottled water and check that the cap is sealed on, not simply screwed on. Diseases such as [[dengue fever]], [[Japanese encephalitis]] and [[malaria]] are endemic. Drug-resistant strains of malaria and tuberculosis are common in many areas. Hepatitis vaccinations are highly recommended and the cholera oral vaccine is worthwhile. At the dinner table, Burmese use a spoon and fork, or their fingers when this is more convenient. You might feel better rinsing all of them before meals. Antibacterial wipes or alcohol hand-rub is a good idea at regular intervals. As in many developing countries: "if you can't fry, roast, peel or boil it - then forget it". ===HIV=== The rate of HIV infection in Myanmar is high by Western and Asian standards (0.7% of the population in 2019). ===Healthcare=== Myanmar's healthcare system is poorly funded. If you should fall sick in Myanmar, you can visit the doctor in major cities for minor ailments. However, for more serious medical care, hospital conditions tend to be unsanitary and there is often a shortage of medical supplies. The only hospital that comes close to modern developed standards is Pun Hlaing Hospital, a privately owned hospital which is in a remote township of Yangon called Hlaing Thar Yar, and one should expect very high expenses there. Most of the hospitals are government owned, which means poorly funded. Most of the government officials and rich locals go to [[Thailand]] or [[Singapore]] for more serious medical treatment and hospitalisation, and you will be better off doing so too. Make sure you get travel insurance as arranging to be airlifted in an emergency is rather costly. The clinic formerly operated by the Australian Embassy in Yangon closed in 2018. There is a good [https://myanmarmix.com/en/directory/international-sos-clinic-yangon international medical clinic] at the Inya Lake Hotel in Yangon for consulting, testing, radiology and minor surgery. == Respect == {{infobox|Naming conventions|Unlike in many other cultures, there is generally no concept of a family name, patronymic or matronymic in Burmese culture, and most individuals only have a given name. For example, the 8th President, '''Htin Kyaw''', only has a given name with no family name, patronymic or matronymic, and would be addressed as Mr Htin Kyaw by most English speakers. Often, a Burmese honorific, usually '''U''' (ဦး) for men or '''Daw''' (ဒေါ်) for women, may be added to the beginning of the name, so he may be addressed as ''U Htin Kyaw''.}} [[File:Mrauk U - 0002.jpg|thumb|400px|[[Mrauk U]], the old capital of Rakhine in Myanmar]] Modest clothing is highly appreciated everywhere except nightclubs, and practically required in religious places such as pagodas, temples and monasteries (of which there are thousands). Miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed in consecrated areas, where you also have to remove your footwear, so loafers and flip-flops that you can slip on and off at the entrance are preferable. Myanmar has some of the most stunning temples in Asia and you will be tempted to visit more than you think. In Myanmar, you have to remove your footwear before entering the entire temple complex, including in outdoor areas. You might want to bring some wet wipes so you can clean your feet after visiting. Burmese people generally do not engage in public display of affection, even among married couples, and it is generally considered distasteful and should be avoided. Both men and women wear a ''longyi'', a sort of sarong sold everywhere, and it is not unusual to see Caucasian foreigners walking around in them. They are wrapped in different ways for men and women, so find out how to tie yours. If you turn up at a temple in inappropriate dress, you can always rent a longyi for a pittance. When giving and receiving '''business cards''', always use your right hand with the palm facing up, and your left hand supporting your right elbow. As the left hand is traditionally reserved for dirty things, handling business cards with it is considered to be very rude. Tourists of Caucasian descent are commonly referred to as ''bo'', which translates to "officer", a linguistic relic of colonization. Address elders with ''U'' (pronounced "oo", as in s'''oo'''n) or "Uncle" for men, and ''Daw'' or "Auntie" for women. Generally speaking, despite the common negative perception of the government, most ordinary Burmese people are incredibly friendly and polite as long as you respect their local customs. Customer service is in general very good (some say better than in [[Thailand]]) but customer service staff are invariably poorly paid, so you might wish to tip service staff generously to ensure your money goes into the right hands. ===Politics=== Avoid discussing relations with the Rohingya and the ongoing ethnic cleansing as this is a very sensitive and emotive issue that can potentially escalate into a confrontation. The vast majority of Burmese people regard the Rohingya as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh who have no right to be in Myanmar, and their Muslim religion is seen by many as a threat to Buddhism. Most Burmese people are offended when the Rohingya are referred to as such, and will insist that you use the term "Bengali" to refer to them instead. Tread carefully when discussing relations with [[China]]. Even though both the military junta and Aung San Suu Kyi had developed close ties with China and invited Chinese investment in Myanmar's infrastructure, this is strongly opposed by many pro-democracy activists. While the pro-democracy view on China have largely improved due to alleged Chinese support towards anti-junta ethnic armed organisations, China's policy has equally dissatisfied or even angered pro-junta groups. ===Religion=== {{see also|Buddhism#Respect}} Buddhism is the largest religion in the country, followed by roughly 80-90% of the population. Many Burmese people are religious and fundamentalist Buddhism has seen growing support in the 21st century. As in neighbouring Thailand, monks collect alms in the morning and adhere to strict rules such as abstaining from physical contact with women and not touching money. It is customary for Burmese men to spend time living as a monk at least once in their lifetime. Donations to monks should be spontaneous and given in the form of food only, not money; monetary donations should be placed in donation boxes in temples. If you see a monk with money in his alms bowl, he is fake. Monks are not allowed to eat after noon, so if you see a monk going on alms round after noon, he is fake. Buddhist monks are highly respected, and it is essential to show them respect. Always ask for permission before taking a photograph or touching a monk. It is also important to behave appropriately in their presence. If you are on public transportation, it is customary to give up your seat for them as a sign of respect. Showing any form of disrespect to Buddhism is taken '''very seriously''' in Myanmar and you can expect to be treated with '''no degree of leniency''' if you've been accused of disrespecting Buddhism. Disrespecting Buddhism encompasses things like wearing something with Buddha on it, having a tattoo of Buddha, depicting Buddha in an inappropriate way, and so on. Foreigners have been jailed for disrespecting Buddhism, so be careful about what you say and what you do. Do not speak negatively about religion; it is illegal, under Burmese law, to "insult" religion. What counts as "insulting" religion is very broadly defined and open to interpretation. Refrain from engaging in religious discussions with the Burmese. Swastikas are commonly seen in Buddhist temples and '''should not''' be conflated with anti-Semitism and Nazism. ==Connect== === Telephone === Country Code: +95 International Call Prefix: 00 Phone numbers in Myanmar have the format <code>+95 1 234-5678</code> where "95" is the country code for Myanmar, the next one, two, three or four digits are the area code and the remaining 6, 7 or 8 digits are the "local" part of the subscriber number. You can buy GSM/4G sim cards at International airports or any convenience store. Standard sim card costs around 1500 Ks. Some operators may offer special sim for tourists. There are 4 mobile operators in Myanmar, MPT (Government+KDDI), Telenor, Ooredoo and MyTel (Military+VietTel). MPT in the largest in Myanmar in terms of network coverage and user. Operators offer similar price plans. Generally, standard plan offers voice calls for 20 Ks - 25Ks/min, SMS at 15 Ks - 20 Ks/message. Pay as you go data plan offers around 7 Ks/MB but specific data plan will offer around 1000 Ks/GB or cheaper. Prices for IDD and roaming service vary depending on the operators and destination countries. If you are going to use in urban area only for local call and data, there is not much difference between operators. If you are going to visit remote area, please check which operator is available at there. If you are going to use IDD or roaming, you may wisely choose by checking offering price at their websites. === Mail === International mail out of Myanmar is reportedly quite efficient, despite what some hotels might tell you. As elsewhere, there is always a risk if you send valuables as ordinary parcels. Use EMS for fast, and relatively cheap international parcels. === Internet === Country's telecommunication sector was revolutionized in 2013 and speed is steadily increasing and price become cheaper. As of 2020, free Wi-fi is available at almost every Hotels. Unlike other countries, Myanmar hugely rely on 4G Internet than cable or Wi-fi. Surprisingly, Yangon has 4th-fastest 4G speeds in East Asia despite the fact that it had slowest speeds in Asia before 2013. Seamless 4G Internet is available in every city, town and along major highway roads. Even a small village is likely to be covered with at least 3G Internet unless it is in highly remote or armed conflict area. Data costs are around 1000 kyat ($0.8)/GB. There are also cheaper fancy data plans depending on operators. MPT is largest mobile operator and Telenor is second. 4G sim cards are available at International airports and any convenience store. With the extended coverage of 4G and smart phones, once dominant Internet cafes are getting out of business and turn into gaming stations. In case of you need to access Internet urgently, you can use at those gaming stations but extensive file downloading is not welcome for it can effect their gaming experience. Facebook and Viber are the most used apps and services in Myanmar. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|22|96|zoom=5}} h2xfakkupgfv2sxp3ed5ave8vywqjat 5091343 5091342 2025-07-11T10:44:30Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091343 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bagan (Myanmar) banner Sunset.jpg|caption=The temples of Bagan at dawn}} {{Warningbox| A nationwide state of emergency remains in force, with nighttime curfews enforced in many cities including Yangon. <!--- Mainland Chinese visitors should be extra careful due to hostility from protesters, and should avoid speaking Mandarin near protest venues.---> Avoid facilities and vehicles linked to security forces and military administration, monitor local media closely, and keep in regular contact with your embassy. Ethnic armed organisations are waging a large-scale offensive in [[Northern Myanmar|Northern]] and [[Eastern Myanmar]] from the Chinese-Myanmar border. Martial law is imposed in part of Shan State, and border crossings along the Chinese-Myanmar border are suspended. There are reports that the prices of many necessities is soaring. Many governments advise against all travel to Myanmar, though the main tourist circuit comprising of [[Yangon]], [[Mandalay]], [[Bagan]] and [[Inle Lake]] is far-removed from the violence and generally safe to visit — corroborated by the UK government's travel advice. A massive earthquake hit the area near Sagaing on 28th March 2025, and a state of emergency has been declared. The earthquake tremors could be felt as far as Hanoi, Vietnam. Many governments advise against all travel to Mandalay and nearby areas. |australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/myanmar |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/myanmar |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar |ie=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/myanmar-burma |sg=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/countries-regions/m/myanmar/travel-page |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/myanmar |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/burma-travel-advisory.html |lastedit=2025-03-31 }} '''Myanmar''' (မြန်မာ ''myanma''), or '''Burma''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]]. The country features awe-inspiring ancient temples, lively local markets, and captivating landscapes, such as unspoiled beaches, picturesque hills, and verdant forests. The genuine warmth of the Burmese people, combined with delectable cuisine, creates an ideal destination for gastronomes and culture aficionados alike. Since the 1960s, the country has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. For a considerable period, Myanmar has been afflicted with political instability, sectarian violence, corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and a prolonged history of colonial exploitation that paid scant attention to human development. == Regions == {{Regionlist | regionmap=Burma Regions Map.png | regionmapsize=425px | region1name=[[Southern Myanmar]] | region1items=''Ayeyarwady, Bago, Yangon'' | region1color=#CAA7C9 | region1description=The lowlands of the Irrawaddy Delta with the largest city and former capital Yangon. | region2name=[[Central Myanmar]] | region2items=''Magway, Mandalay, Naypyitaw'' | region2color=#E5B775 | region2description=Mandalay, historical and archaeological sites and cool hill towns. | region3name=[[Western Myanmar]] | region3items=''Rakhine, Chin'' | region3color=#A4C78A | region3description=Remote mountainous regions and some lovely beaches on the Bay of Bengal. | region4name=[[Northern Myanmar]] | region4items=''Sagaing, Kachin'' | region4color=#d17c82 | region4description=A huge, fractious region including the southern reaches of the Himalayas and many tribes. | region5name=[[Eastern Myanmar]] | region5items=''Shan, Kayah'' | region5color=#76AED2 | region5description=The infamous Golden Triangle and a bewildering number of ethnic groups. | region6name=[[Southeastern Myanmar]] | region6items=''Tanintharyi, Mon, Kayin'' | region6color=#DDE28E | region6description=The southern coastal stretch bordering Thailand with a vast number of offshore islands. }} == Cities == * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Naypyidaw]]|wikidata=Q37400}} (''formerly Pyinmana'') — newly designated capital of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]|wikidata=Q800122}} (''formerly Pegu'') — historic city near Yangon full of Buddhist sights * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kawthaung]]|wikidata=Q978611}} — beach town in the far south which is as much like Thailand as Myanmar gets * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mandalay]]|wikidata=Q185518}} — former capital of the Konbaung Dynasty built around the Mandalay Royal Palace and main commercial centre of Upper Myanmar * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mawlamyine]]|wikidata=Q685941}} (''Moulmein'') — capital of Mon State and the third largest city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pyin U Lwin]]|wikidata=Q1360318}} (''Maymyo'') — a cool town (in both temperature and attractions) which is a former British colonial hill station * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taunggyi]]|wikidata=Q1075566}} — capital of Shan State in the heart of the Golden Triangle * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Twante]]|wikidata=Q7857423}} — a delta town that is famous for pottery * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Yangon]]|wikidata=Q37995}} (''formerly Rangoon'') — the economic centre, known for its pagodas and colonial architecture == Other destinations == <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bagan]]|wikidata=Q29317}} — an archaeological zone with thousands of ancient pagodas near the banks of the Irrawaddy River, and a {{UNESCO}} * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Inle Lake]]|wikidata=Q1043461}} — a large shallow lake famous for boat trips, visiting floating villages inhabited by the Intha people, hiking, and also a source of excellent silk * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kengtung]]|wikidata=Q1027111}} — between [[Mong La]] (on the border with China) and [[Tachileik]] (on the border with Thailand) in the Golden Triangle, known for the ''Ann'' (black teeth people) and ''Akha'' tribes and trekking * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kyaiktiyo]]|wikidata=Q6450666}} — a gold-gilded rock sitting atop a cliff and a major pilgrimage site * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mount Popa]]|wikidata=Q1150764}} — an extinct volcano regarded as the Mount Olympus of Myanmar, a green oasis high above the hot plains and an easy day trip from Bagan * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mrauk U]]|wikidata=Q1951490}} — former capital of the Rakhine Kingdom, with many ancient pagodas that serve as a reminder of that era * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngapali]]|wikidata=Q19701446}} — beach resort in western [[Rakhine State]], on the Bay of Bengal * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngwe Saung]]|wikidata=Q7023181}} — longest stretch of beach in Ayeyarwaddy (English: Irrawaddy) Division, white sandy beach and crystal clear water are the features of Ngwe Saung Beach * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pyay]]|wikidata=Q691747}} — a town on the Irrawaddy River midway between Yangon and Bagan, known for its archaeological site ''Sri Kittara'', the ancient Pyu capital from 2 to 9 CE * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pathein]]|wikidata=Q870103}} — a river town in the Irrawaddy delta, known for manufacture of umbrellas, gateway to Chuang Tha and Ngwe Saung Beaches == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMyanmar.png}} === History === Like most of Southeast Asia's countries, Myanmar's people and history is a glorious mishmash of settlers and invaders from all fronts. The Mon and the Pyu are thought to have come from [[India]], while the now dominant Bamar (Burmese) migrated through [[Tibet]] and, by 849, had founded a powerful kingdom centred on [[Bagan]]. The ethnic diversity of the region, and the dominance of the Bamar people in the central plains, set up the geopolitical struggles between them and the multitude of smaller ethnic groups surrounding, which have continued unabated until the present day. From the 9th century to the 19th century, the Burmese empire grew through conquests of [[Thailand]] ([[Ayutthaya]]) and India ([[Manipur]]), and shrank under attacks from [[China]] and internal rebellions. [[File:Bago, Myanmar (Burma) - panoramio (44).jpg|thumb|Resting Buddha statue in Bago]] Eventually, [[United Kingdom|Britain]] conquered Burma over a period of 62 years (1824-1886) and incorporated it into its Indian Empire, and King Thibaw, the last Burmese monarch, was exiled to [[Ratnagiri]] in what is today [[India]]. Like in their other colonies, the British maintained control partly through a "divide and conquer" strategy, in which they deliberately stoked tensions between different ethnic and religious groups, resulting in ethnic and religious conflicts that have never been resolved. For example, bureaucrats were imported from India, and other government positions tended to be manned by locals from the smaller ethnic groups. Burma was administered as a province of India until 1937 when it became a separate colony. During the Second World War, Burma was a major battleground as the Allies fought the Japanese for dominance over Asia. The [[Burma Road]] was built to get supplies to China. The Thailand-Burma railway (the so-called "Death Railway") from [[Kanchanaburi]] in Thailand over the River Kwai to Burma was built by the Japanese using forced labour &mdash; Allied prisoners-of-war, indentured Thai labourers, Burmese people and other Southeast Asians. They had to work in appalling conditions and a great number of them died (estimated at 80,000) during construction of the railway. Large parts of Western Burma, particularly the hilly areas bordering India and the city of [[Mandalay]], were severely damaged during the war. Burmese independence fighters led by '''General Aung San''' cooperated with the Japanese to oust the British at first; the Japanese promised to grant independence to Burma in exchange. However, life under Japanese occupation was even more brutal than life under British colonialism, and many Burmese were killed, such as in the Kalagong massacre. Aung San subsequently switched allegiance and helped the allies win Burma back from the Japanese. Aung San subsequently led negotiations with the British for Burmese independence after the end of World War II, and the British agreed in 1947 to grant independence to Burma the following year, though Aung San himself was assassinated later in 1947 and never lived to see his dream come true. Independence from the British under the name '''Union of Burma''' was finally attained on 4 January 1948, and General Aung San is regarded by most Burmese people to be their father of independence. The new union brought together various states defined by ethnic identity, many of whom had centuries-long histories of autonomy from and struggles against each other. In the interest of securing their collective independence from Britain, the tribes reached an agreement to submit to collective governance—with power sharing among the ethnicities and states—for ten years, after which each tribe would be afforded the right to secede from the union. The terms of this "Pinlon Agreement" were enshrined in the 1947/1948 constitution of the new Union of Burma. The new central government of the nation quickly worked to consolidate its power, marginalising and angering tribal leaders and setting off ethnic armed conflict that has continued unabated until the present day. In 1961, more than 200 ethnic leaders from the Shan people, Kachin people, Red Karen, Karen people, Chin peoples, Mon people and Rakhine people met with ethnic Bamar (Burmese) central government authorities to draft a new form of government which would ensure the tribes both autonomy and self-determination within a federal system. [[File:Aung San Suu Kyi December 2011 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Aung San Suu Kyi]] The new government was never formed. Nevertheless, up until Ne Win's coup in 1962, Burma was regarded as one of the most developed and fastest growing economies in Asia, and widely touted as a contender to be the next Japan. Military leader General Ne Win led a coup d'état which ousted the democratically elected government in 1962, and installed himself as leader. General Ne Win dominated the government from 1962 to 1988, first as military ruler, then as self-appointed president, and later as political kingpin. Under Ne Win's rule, widespread corruption and nepotism led the Burmese economy into a downward spiral from which it has never fully recovered. Pro-democracy demonstrations in 1988 were violently crushed, with general Saw Maung taking over in a coup and installing the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) to rule the country, now renamed '''Myanmar'''. Multiparty legislative elections were held in 1990, with the main opposition party - the National League for Democracy (NLD) - winning a landslide victory (392 of 489 seats). But SLORC refused to hand over power, instead placing NLD leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi (daughter of national hero Aung San) under house arrest, which she has endured for 14 of the last 20 years. Today Myanmar, a resource-rich country, suffers from pervasive government controls, inefficient economic policies, and rural poverty. What was once one of the richest and most developed countries in Asia has since slumped into poverty due to widespread corruption. The junta took steps in the early 1990s to liberalise price controls after decades of failure under the "Burmese Way to Socialism," but had to reinstate subsidised prices on staples in the face of food riots, upon which the democracy movement grafted its agenda. The government called out troops and the rioters were defiant until the monks intervened: standing between both sides, they told everyone to go home and they did. The riots caused overseas development assistance to cease and the government subsequently nullified the results of the 1990 legislative elections. In response to the government's attack in May 2003 on Aung San Suu Kyi and her convoy, the [[USA]] imposed new economic sanctions against Myanmar, including bans on imports of products from Myanmar and on provision of financial services by US citizens. [[File:NLD Flag from car Yangon.png|thumb|A National League for Democracy supporter in Yangon]] The summer of 2007 was marked by demonstrations against the military government which were again brutally suppressed. The demonstrations started in August, apparently in an uncoordinated manner, as a protest against a stiff hike in the price of petrol, but morphed into a more serious challenge to the government after three monks were beaten at a protest march in the town of Pakokku. The monks demanded an apology but none was forthcoming and soon processions of monks with begging bowls held upside down filled many cities (including [[Sittwe]], [[Mandalay]] and [[Yangon]]). Yangon, particularly the area around Sule Pagoda in the downtown area, became the centre of these protests. While the monks marched, and many ordinary citizens came out in support of the monks, the world watched as pictures, videos, and blogs flooded the Internet. However, the government soon suppressed the protests by firing on crowds, arresting monks and closing monasteries, and temporarily shut down Internet communications with the rest of the world. This led the US, [[Australia]], [[Canada]] and the [[European Union]] to impose additional sanctions, some targeting the families and finances of the military leaders. [[File:Protesters against the military coup.jpg|thumb|Protesters demonstrating against the 2021 military coup]] Following elections in 2010, Burma began a process of liberalisation that has led to a reduction or removal of sanctions by many nations including the United States. In 2012, Aung San Suu Kyi was elected to the Burmese parliament and allowed to travel to Europe and North America. Censorship of foreign and local news was also suspended. In November 2015, Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won a landslide victory in the nationwide legislative elections and Htin Kyaw, a close ally of Aung San Suu Kyi, became president. In April 2016, Aung San Suu Kyi took office as State Counsellor, a post equivalent to prime minister, making her Myanmar's ''de facto'' head of government. In February 2021, the military once again took power in a coup d'état after a landslide victory by the NLD. Country-wide mass protests and a civil disobedience movement sprung up in the aftermath; protests were brutally crushed as the army killed hundreds of NLD supporters and democratic activists. Thousands of NLD and other pro-democracy politicians, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and community leaders were arrested. Peaceful protests still occur sporadically while other groups of protesters have taken up arms against the military regime, particularly in the border regions. Western countries have re-imposed economic sanctions on Myanmar as a result of the coup. As of mid-2024, the junta controls less than half of the area of the country, and Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) have been successfully mounting co-ordinated attacks with increasing confidence. However, this brutal civil war still has no end in sight. ===Culture=== Myanmar's culture is largely a result of Indian influences intertwined with local traditions and Chinese influences. This can be seen in the various stupas and temples throughout the country, which bear a distinct resemblance to those in northern India. As in neighbouring [[Thailand]], Theravada Buddhism is the single largest religion. 88% of the population follows these Buddhist practices, and even some of the most remote villages will have a temple for people to pray at. Other religions which exist in smaller numbers include Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Animism and ancestor worship can also be found around the country, especially in the more distant, hill tribe regions. One pre-Buddhist tradition that survives in Myanmar is the worship of the '''''Nats''''', or traditional Burmese spirits, and you will see many spirit houses throughout the country dedicated to their worship. Following the spread of Theravada Buddhism, the worship of the Nats was incorporated into Burmese Buddhism, and they are today regarded as subordinates of the Buddha. ===People=== [[File:Burmese people 01.jpg|thumb|Boys in Yangon with thanaka paste on their faces]] The dominant ethnic group in Myanmar is known as the Bamar, from which the original English name of the country, Burma, was derived. Besides the Bamar, Myanmar is also home to many minority ethnic groups and nationalities which have their own distinct cultures and languages. In addition to the native ethnic minorities, Myanmar is also home to ethnic Chinese and Indians whose ancestors migrated to Myanmar during the colonial period, most visible in the cities of Yangon and Mandalay. Myanmar is divided into fourteen administrative divisions, seven regions and seven states; generally speaking, the regions are Bamar-dominated, while the states are dominated by the respective ethnic minorities. The government has been condemned by other nations for violence against the Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, which borders Bangladesh. The government does not recognise them as citizens of Myanmar, but instead claims they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, a narrative embraced by the vast majority of Burmese despite the Rohingya's presence in Rakhine going back generations. Forced to flee to Bangladesh in large numbers, where they are also regarded as foreigners, many have lost their lives trying to seek refuge and work in Malaysia. Generally speaking, most Myanmar people are incredibly friendly and polite, and will do their best to make you feel welcome in their country. ===Politics=== Myanmar, officially the '''Republic of the Union of Myanmar''' (ပြည်ထောင်​စု သမ္မတ မြန်မာ​နိုင်​ငံတော်), is a presidential republic, with the president, who is appointed by the legislature, serving as both head of state and ''de jure'' head of government. He and his cabinet form the executive branch. The legislature is composed of the bicameral ''Pyidaungsu Hluttaw'' (Assembly of the Union), consisting of an upper ''Amyotha Hluttaw'' (House of Nationalities), and a lower ''Pyithu Hluttaw'' (House of Representatives). While a majority of the members of the legislature are popularly elected by the people, a quarter the seats are reserved for appointees from the military. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won a majority of seats in the 2015 election. As she is constitutionally barred from the presidency (by virtue of having married a foreigner), she instead served as the ''de facto'' head of government in the role of State Counsellor. As of February 2021, Myanmar is ruled by a military dictatorship. === Climate === Myanmar is considered to have 3 seasons. The hot season is usually from Mar–Apr. Temperatures then cool off during the rainy season from May–Oct. The peak tourism season is the cool season from Nov–Feb. Temperatures can climb as high as 36°C in Yangon in the hot season while in the cool season, noontime temperatures are usually a more bearable 32°C, with night temperatures falling to around 19°C. Mandalay is slightly cooler in the cool season, with temperatures falling as low as 13°C, while temperatures in the hot season can go as high as 37°C. Generally, Lower Myanmar, the area around Yangon, receives more rainfall than the drier Upper Myanmar (around Mandalay). In the highlands such as [[Inle Lake]] and [[Pyin U Lwin]], winter temperatures can fall below 10°C at night, while daytime temperatures tend to be very pleasant. Even in the summer, temperatures rarely climb above 32°C. Near the Indian border in [[Kachin State]], there are permanently snow-capped mountains. === Read === [[File:Haridaung-Mrauk U-Aussicht-06-Pagoden im Dunst-gje.jpg|thumb|View of Mrauk U]] * ''From the Land of the Green Ghosts'' by Pascal Khoo Thwe. A Cambridge-educated writer gives a touching account of his growing up as a Paduang-Hilltribe-Guyand in the difficult political environment before becoming a rebel. ({{ISBN|0007116829}}) * ''The Glass Palace'' by Amitav Ghosh. A novel that spans a century, from British conquest to the modern day. A compelling account of how a family adapted to the changing times; provides much insight into Burmese culture. * ''The River of Lost Footsteps'' by Thant Myint-U. Easily the most accessible history of Myanmar available. Read it before you go and you will marvel at how the once great and rich cities (like Martaban, Syriam, and [[Mrauk U|Mrauk-U]]) have become the dingy and smoky villages of today. ({{ISBN|0374163421}}) * ''The Trouser People'' by Andrew Marshall. The author follows in the footsteps of Victorian explorer, Sir George Scott. This book looks at lost British heritage as well as the Burmese tragedies occurring in the present. ({{ISBN|0140294457}}) * ''Finding George Orwell in Burma'' by Emma Larkin. The pseudonymous author, a journalist, posed as a tourist to travel around Myanmar in the early 2000s, before the government opened up the country to the world. She documents a country trapped in the past, attempts to distinguish sympathetic storytellers from police informants, and retraces Orwell's life in Myanmar, who went on to give the world the vocabulary to criticise the repressive police state which the country had since become. ({{ISBN|1594200521}}) * ''Burma Chronicles'' by Guy Delisle. A whimsical and humorous graphic novel about a family who moves to Yangon on assignment with an NGO in the mid-2000s. The protagonist, a stay-at-home dad, adapts to life in Burma with his infant son while his wife works long hours. An enjoyable and light read, this work does not dwell on human rights under the dictatorship, but rather focusses on the day-to-day life of the protagonist and the characters he meets. ({{ISBN|9781897299500}}) === Listen === * [https://insightmyanmar.org/ ''Insight Myanmar''] used to be a podcast about religion and spirituality, but it pivoted to providing news and interviews with experts following the military coup of February 2021. * ''[https://www.myanmarmusings.com/ Myanmar Musings]'' is the podcast of the [https://myanmar.anu.edu.au/ Myanmar Research Centre] at the Australian National University, Canberra. While much more academic than ''Insight Myanmar'', it still features interviews with a variety of experts on a range of historical and present-day topics relating to research on Myanmar. * [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-happening-in-myanmar/id1777519120 ''What's Happening in Myanmar''] is a news podcast that is useful for keeping up with the ever-changing political and military situation on the ground in Myanmar. === Holidays === * 4 January: Independence Day * January: Kayin New Year Day - 1st waxing of Pyatho * 12 February: Union Day * March: Full Moon Day of Tabaung * 27 March: Armed Forces Day * April: Thingyan (Burmese New Year) — the most important festival in Myanmar, in which people splash water at each other. Also known as the Water Festival, and similar to Songkran in neighbouring Thailand * May: Full Moon Day of Kason * July: Full Moon Day of Waso * October: Full Moon Day of Thadingyut * 19 July: Martyrs Day * November: National Day - 10 st waning of the moon of Tazaungmon * 25 December: Christmas Day === Units of measure === {{See also|Metric and Imperial equivalents}} Since 2013, Myanmar has begun adopting the '''metric system''' (SI), which is now used for weather reports, petrol prices, and speed limits, and ''new'' road signs. However, much usage of '''imperial system''' and the traditional '''Burmese units of measurement''' persist. Old road signs may use miles and miles per hour, and government websites inconsistently convert Burmese units to metric or Imperial. ===Tourist information === * [https://tourism.gov.mm/ Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website == Talk == {{see also|Burmese phrasebook}} [[File:Vendeurs de plantes médicinales vers Kyaiktiyo Paya.jpg|thumb|Burmese signs at a market]] The official language of Myanmar is '''[[Burmese phrasebook|Burmese]]''' (မြန်မာစကား ''mien ma za ga'') (known by the government as Myanmar), a Sino-Tibetan language related to Chinese and hence tonal (word pitch matters) and analytic (most words are one syllable long). It is written using the Burmese script, based on the ancient Pali script. Bilingual signs (English and Burmese) are available in most tourist spots. Numbers often are also written in Burmese script. Much vocabulary is derived from another ancient languages of Pali (at the time of Buddha) and [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]]. There are also many other ethnic groups in Myanmar such as the Mon, Shan, Pa-O, Rohingya and many others who continue to speak their own languages. While Burmese serves as the lingua franca in government-controlled areas, it may not be spoken at all in some separatist-controlled areas. There is also a sizeable ethnic Chinese community who speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] and/or various Chinese dialects. In Yangon, most of the Chinese are descendants from migrants from Fujian and Guangdong, and hence speak mainly [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]] or Taishanese, while in Mandalay, the Chinese are mostly descendants of migrants from Yunnan, and mainly speak the Yunnan dialect of Mandarin. Some areas are also home to various ethnic Indian communities who continue to speak various Indian languages. Myanmar is a former British colony and many Burmese understand at least some rudimentary English. Most well-educated upper class Burmese speak English fluently, while any educated Burmese will know at least the basics. Hotel and airline staff, as well as people working in the tourism industry generally speak a good level of English. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Myanmar.png|450px|thumbnail|right|Visa policy of Myanmar {{legend|#ED1C24|Myanmar}} {{legend|#22B14C|Visa free & eVisa}} {{legend|#FF7F27|eVisa (Business & Tourism)}} {{legend|#FFB583|eVisa (Business)}} {{legend|#FFC90D|eVisa (Tourism)}} {{legend|#ABABAB|Visa required in advance}}]] The visa situation in Myanmar is changing quickly and this has caused confusion even among immigration staff, and many guides and official websites are out of date. Check Wikipedia for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Myanmar visa policy]. ====Visa-free==== Citizens of the following countries may visit Myanmar without a visa for tourism provided they enter '''by air''', and their stay does not exceed the following number of days: *14 days: [[Brunei]], [[Cambodia]], [[Laos]], [[Philippines]], [[Thailand]] *30 days: [[Russia]], [[Vietnam]] Citizens of [[Singapore]] may visit Myanmar without a visa for up to 30 days regardless of mode of entry. These visa exemptions are strictly not extendable. All other travelers are required to apply for a visa in advance. ====E-Visa==== [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ E-Visa] are available for visitors from many countries, including most Western countries for US$50/tourist and US$70/business travelers (as of Jan 2020) through the [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ Myanmar Immigration's web-site], which take 3 days to process. However, there is also an express tourist e-Visa service available on the governments website for US$56 (rather than the standard US$50) taking 24 hr (though sometimes just a few hours). Check the e-Visa website for details on which nationalities this is available for. The visa is valid for 28 day for stays beginning up to 90 days from the date of issue, and is single entry only. In order to apply, you will need to upload a passport-sized colour photo, and payment which is only accepted by credit card. Permitted entry points are: Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, Nay Pyi Taw International Airport, and the longtail boat crossing from Ranong, Thailand at [[Kawthaung]] Tourist visas are valid for 3 months. The visa is valid for a stay of up to four weeks (from date of entry), although you can overstay if you are willing to pay a US$3 a day fee upon departure. Employment is ''not'' allowed on a tourist visa, and working runs you the risk of being arrested and deported. Successful applicants will also be issued an "Arrival Form", which will be stapled into your passport and must be presented on arrival in Myanmar, along with your passport containing the visa sticker. ====Visa on arrival==== As of October 2019, [http://www.mip.gov.mm/on-arrival-visa/ visas on arrival] are available for tourist and business visitors of some nationalities at Yangon, Mandalay and Naypyidaw airports. You must bring two passport-sized colour photos, and a letter of invitation from the company sponsoring your visa (for business visas). There is still some confusion at airports about this because official resources are not being updated to match changes but most tourists are not experiencing difficult- if you experience any insist you are eligible for a visa and ask for a senior staff member. Note: In August 2022 a directive from Myanmar to airline staff immediately (and inexplicably) suspended the Tourist Visa on Arrival for all nationalities. This has not been updated on government websites. Check well in advance at the check-in counter what the status is, and consider playing it safe with an e-visa. ====Visa at an embassy or consulate==== You can apply for all kinds of visas in a Myanmar embassy or consulate in many capitals and large cities around the world. See specific details like contacts, hours, etc. there&mdash;especially for [[Bangkok#Embassies|Bangkok]] and [[Chiang Mai#Consulates|Chiang Mai]] in Thailand, [[Delhi#Cope|Delhi]] in India, [[Hong Kong#Consulates|Hong Kong]] in China, and [[Washington, D.C.#Embassies|Washington D.C.]] in the US. Generally the visa application requires a completed visa form (available from the Myanmar embassy), a completed arrival form (again, from the embassy), a photocopy of the photo page from your passport, two passport-sized photos, proof of your occupation, and the applicable fee. === By plane === Myanmar's main international airport is located at '''[[Yangon]]''', the largest city and main economic centre. There are regular scheduled flights from Yangon to many major Asian cities. For travellers from outside the region, the easiest way to get into Myanmar will be to catch a flight from either [[Singapore]] or [[Bangkok]], both of which have large overseas Burmese populations, and are served by several daily flights into Yangon. Myanmar also has a second international airport at '''[[Mandalay]]''', which is served by several flights to the neighbouring countries. For a current list of airlines and destinations, see [https://www.yangonairport.aero/index.php/en/ Airport of Yangon]. The two main international airlines based out of Yangon are flag carrier '''[http://flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airines]''' and privately owned '''[http://www.maiair.com/ Myanmar Airways International]'''. ===By land=== Myanmar borders five countries: China, India, Bangladesh, Thailand and Laos. Foreigners are free to travel overland from Thailand into the Burmese heartland provided their Burmese visa is in order. Entering Myanmar from the other land border crossings, though, is a different story. At the very least, you must apply for special permits in advance, and you may need to join a guided tour in order for the permit to be granted. ====Thailand==== Four border crossings exist between Myanmar and [[Thailand]] at [[Tachileik]]/[[Mae Sai]], [[Myawaddy]]/[[Mae Sot]], [[Htee Kee]]/[[Ban Phunamron]] and the [[Three Pagoda Pass]]. The former three are open to foreigners, and there are no restrictions on foreigners travelling into the Burmese heartland from Myawaddy or Htee Kee. From Tachileik, travel beyond Keng Tung is not possible overland unless you are on a guided tour with a special permit. No visa-on-arrival is available though, so ensure that your Thai (if required) and Burmese visas are in order. ====China==== Foreigners can enter Myanmar at [[Muse (Myanmar)|Muse]] via [[Ruili]] (in [[Yunnan]]), although a permit (as well as a visa) and a guide are needed. You will most likely need to join an organized tour. Crossing in the opposite direction is more difficult to arrange and details are uncertain; however, it's possible to fly from [[Mandalay]] to [[Kunming]], and there's even a Chinese consulate that issues visas in Mandalay. ====India==== A land border crossing exists between [[India]] and Myanmar at Moreh/[[Tamu]] and is open to tourists who have vehicles and who are on foot or who have tours. As of 2023, Myanmar eVisas are ''not'' valid for entry at this border, so you'll need to get a visa in advance. This border is in politically unstable territory and there have been protests and two bomb blasts in the Indian town of Moreh (Oct 2019) which briefly closed the border. Tourists are generally advised not to loiter in Moreh, especially late at night- and to stay in Tamu on the Myanmar side if possible. It is no longer required to have a permit to visit the Indian state of [[Manipur]] which borders Myanmar. ====Laos==== The Myanmar-Laos Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River is the sole official border crossing between Myanmar and Laos. The bridge connects [[Shan State]] in Myanmar with [[Luang Namtha|Luang Namtha Province]] in [[Laos]], in a ''very'' remote region for both countries, and information on when (or whether) the crossing is operating is hard to find. As eVisas are not accepted for entry at this crossing, you'll need to get a visa in advance. ====Bangladesh==== It is not feasible to cross the border between Myanmar and [[Bangladesh]] independently. No border crossings exist between the two nations, and the Myanmar army has planted [[landmines]] along the frontier to discourage smugglers. ===By boat=== Small wooden longtail boats shuttle between [[Ranong]], [[Thailand]] and [[Kawthaung]], Myanmar. There is no fixed schedule; you just negotiate directly with one of the boat operators, and they will leave once a price is agreed on. Be sure to bargain hard or you might get ripped off. Boat operators may try you hustle you onto their boat before you find the immigration building to get stamped out; be firm and insist on going through immigration, or you will be considered to have left the country illegally. You will need to pay a US$10 or 500 Thai baht "stamping fee" to Myanmar immigration when entering or leaving via this checkpoint. If choosing to pay by U.S. dollars, be sure your bills are in pristine condition; even slight creases will cause your bills to be rejected. == Get around == Myanmar's infrastructure is in poor shape. Travel to certain regions is prohibited; for others, special permits must be obtained, and a guide/interpreter/minder may be mandatory - although whether these "guides" accompany you to look after you, or to keep you from going to places the government doesn't want you to see, is a question best discussed elsewhere. However, travel between the main tourist sites, namely Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon, is fairly straightforward. ===Restricted areas=== Much of Myanmar is closed to foreign travellers, and many land routes to far-flung areas are also closed (for example, to [[Mrauk U]], [[Kalewa]], [[Putao]], [[Kengtung]]). Due to longstanding ethnic conflicts, many ethnic minority areas are controlled by armed separatist groups and remain outside the control of the central government. Thus, while tourists can travel freely in the Bamar-majority Burmese heartland, travel tends to be restricted or circumscribed in ethnic minority areas. In theory, any tourist can apply for a permit to visit any restricted area or to travel on any restricted land route. In practice, it is unlikely that any such permit will be issued in a reasonable amount of time, or at all. Permit requests can be made locally in some cases (for example, requests for the land route to [[Kalewa]] can be made in [[Shwebo]]) but, in most cases, the request has to be made in [[Yangon]]. Requests to visit restricted areas must be made at the [http://myanmartravelsandtours.com/ MTT (Myanmar Travel and Tours)] office in Yangon (Number 77–91, Sule Pagoda Rd, Yangon). Applications for local permits can often be made at a local MTT office or at a police station. Local permits are available only for the following places & routes: *[[File:Pa-O women at restaurant stall, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Pa-O women at a restaurant stall]][[Kengtung]] - [[Tachilek]]. This used to be straightforward but the availability is now uncertain. *[[Mrauk U]] Chin/Zomi village tours. Easily available in Mrauk U, but must visit with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Myitkyina]] - [[Indawgyi Lake]]. Easily available in Myitkyina but must travel with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Shwebo]] - [[Kalewa]]. A permit is necessary if going by road. It is uncertain whether one is required if going by boat. *[[Pa-O Self-Administered Zone]] in [[Shan State]] (including the Kakku Pagodas). Available in [[Taunggyi]], but must be accompanied by a local Pa-O guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this. All other permits must be obtained in Yangon. Permits for some places, such as Putao, are obtainable but need to be applied for well in advance Myanmar is not [[North Korea]], and you are free to walk around, go to shops and interact with the locals. However, with many of the more far flung places, and places restricted to foreigners, it is better to arrange your internal visa in advance. Companies that can help with internal visas: *[http://www.mrmyanmartravel.com Mr Myanmar Travel] *[http://www.remoteasia.com Remote Asia Travel] *[http://www.travelmyanmar.com Travel Myanmar] ===By plane=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Sample fares between important destinations (through local tourist agency)''' ! From !! To !! Approximate fare |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || US$95 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || US$85 |- | [[Bagan]] || [[Heho]] || US$65 |- | [[Heho]] || [[Yangon]] || US$85 |} The poor state of Myanmar's roads and railways make flying by far the least uncomfortable option when travelling long distances. Flag carrier '''[https://www.flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airlines]''' operates a network of domestic flights to many destinations across Myanmar from its hub in Yangon International Airport. Long known for its poor safety record, it has improved dramatically with the purchase of newer aircraft, and these days compares favourably with many of the private airlines in terms of both service and safety. There are also several private airlines operating domestic flights from Yangon. The private airline companies are usually on time, and even depart early (10-20 min), so be on time and reconfirm your flight and flight time 1–2 days before departure. Sometimes the itinerary might be altered some days before departure (meaning that you will still fly to your final destination on the scheduled time, but with an added or removed in between stop, e.g., Yangon-Bagan becomes Yangon-Mandalay-Bagan). This usually only affects your arrival time. En route stops have only 10-20 min ground time, and if it is not your final destination, you can stay inside the plane during the stop. All domestic flight from Yangon depart from Terminal 3, while international flights depart from Terminals 1 & 2. When taking a taxi from downtown to the airport, mention to the driver that you are on a domestic flight so you'll not end up in the wrong terminal. ===By train=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Train travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Ordinary || Upper || Sleeper |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 16 hr || 4,600&nbsp;kyat || 9,300&nbsp;kyat || 13,000&nbsp;kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 6 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,500&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 4 hr || 550&nbsp;kyat || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 7 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,750&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Lashio]] || 16 hr || 1,900&nbsp;kyat || 4,400&nbsp;kyat || None |} Myanmar has an extensive rail network, a relic of British rule. Unfortunately, there has been little maintenance or growth since the British left. Trains are slow, noisy, uncomfortable, and prone to delays. Electrical blackouts are becoming rare but nonetheless never assume that air conditioners, fans or the electrical supply itself will be working throughout the whole journey. Most trains have upper class and ordinary class. Ordinary class has wide open windows, benches and can be packed with locals transporting their goods. Upper class has upholstered chairs, fans and is less crowded. Be careful putting your head out of the window as it is likely to be hit by a branch. Vegetation grows so close to the tracks that you can reach out and touch it. Tickets are cheap and tourists pay the same price as locals, but tourists cannot buy tickets on the train. At smaller stations, you may have to seek the stationmaster or use an interpreter to buy a ticket. Your passport is required when purchasing. [[File:Gokteik Viaduct, Southbound.jpg|thumb|The famous Gokteik Viaduct dates from 1899]] A journey on a train is a great way to see the country and meet people. The rail journey from [[Mandalay]], up hairpin bends to [[Pyin U Lwin]], and then across the mountains and the famous bridge at Gokteik, is one of the great railway journeys of the world. Trains in lower Mandalay, Yangon-Pathein and Yangon-Mawlymaing, are little communities of their own with hawkers selling everything imaginable. Sleepers are available on many overnight express trains, although in the high season you may want to reserve a few days in advance. Tickets go on sale three days in advance. At some stations there is a separate counter for advance bookings, or even a separate building (e.g., in Yangon). Food service is available on the express in both directions between Yangon and Mandalay. Except for the new bridge and rail line that connects [[Mawlamyine]] to points on the west side of the Salween River, the rail network is exactly the way it was in British times. The most-used line is the 325km line from Yangon to Mandalay with several trains a day. It is the only double line in Myanmar, and also the only one that is competitive in time with buses. The fastest trains take 15 hr for the 385km run, an effective rate of 25km/hour. A second line connects Yangon with Pyay, 9 hr for the 175&nbsp;km journey, with a branch heading off into the delta region town of Pathein. These tracks, the earliest constructed, are in poor shape. With the construction of the bridge across the Salween, it is now possible to go by train from Yangon to Mawlamyine, 8 hr for the 200km journey, and on to Ye and Dawei. From Mandalay, trains continue on to Myitkyina in Kachin State, 350km in 24 hr, and to Lashio. There are also rail connections between Yangon-Bagan and Mandalay-Bagan, but bus or ferry are better alternatives: the 175km from Mandalay to Bagan takes 10 hours. There is railway service between Yangon-Bagan. 16 hr, first class US$30, upper class US$40, sleeper US$50. (check new prices) Train tickets cannot be paid in dollars any more, and the government has abandoned the former dual-pricing structure that saw tourists pay inflated prices. === By boat === There is also a large river ferry network. Both are to a large extent run by the government, although there are now some private ferry services. The trip from Mandalay to Bagan takes the better part of a day, from Bagan to Yangon is several days. === By bus === {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ ''' Bus travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 11 hr || 10,400 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || 10 hr || 12,000 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 4 hr || 6,000 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 2 hr || 1,500 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 5.5 hr || 4,500 |} Buses of all types ply the roads of Myanmar. Luxury (relatively speaking) buses do the Mandalay-Yangon run while lesser vehicles can get travellers to other places. Fares are reasonable and in kyat and buses are faster than the trains. Many long-distance buses assign seats, so it is best to book seats at least a day in advance. Because the roads are bad, avoid the rear of the bus and try to sit as far up front as you can. Long-distance buses also have an extra jump seat that blocks the aisle and, because it is not well secured to the chassis, can be uncomfortable (which also means that there is no such thing as a side seat where taller people can stretch their legs). A window near the front of the bus is always the best option. Even budget travellers will find themselves buying more tickets via their hotel or an agency rather than going to the bus company to buy it directly. Their offices are often located far from any tourist place and the cost of going there and back will most likely exceed the commission your hotel will get for selling you the ticket. Shop around and compare prices before buying your ticket as some vendors include a free pick-up from your hotel. A bus ticket scam seems to be popular in Yangon. While many make a stopover in Bago, they are told at their guesthouse or at the bus station it's not possible to buy tickets there in the direction to Mandalay. In a country where everything might be possible when it comes to transport, some people fall for this. Actually, this is not the case and tracking back to Yangon for a bus ticket up north is not necessary at all. Bago has a bus terminal with several bus offices. Buying your ticket at Bago might be slightly cheaper (depending upon your bargaining skills) and gives you more freedom for the rest of your journey. The adjoining table summarises travel times and approximate fares between important tourist destinations in Myanmar. Most bus fares have gone up with the fuel price rises, so the fares listed are rough estimates. === By pick-up === Old pick-up trucks run everywhere in Myanmar, cheaply ferrying men, women, children, and monks from one place to another. The rear of the truck is converted into a canvas-covered sitting area with three benches, one on each side and one running along the centre of the truck (some smaller trucks have only two rows), and the running board is lowered and fixed into place providing room for six or more people to stand on (holding on to the truck frame). Pick-ups are ubiquitous in Myanmar and every town has a central point somewhere from where they depart to places both near and far. Tourists who go off the beaten track will find them indispensable because often the only alternative is an expensive taxi or private car. The basics of pickups are fairly straightforward, wait till it is reasonably full before heading out. On well-travelled routes (Mandalay-Pyin U Lwin, for example), they fill up quickly and the journey is quick. On less well-travelled routes ([[Bhamo]]-[[Katha]], for example), passengers arrive (early, usually around 06:00), mark their place, and then hang around drinking tea and chatting until the truck fills up. When the pick-up does get moving, it may linger or go out of its way in the hope of picking up more passengers. The inside of a pick-up can be hot and uncomfortable. Passengers, packed in like sardines, face away from the windows (which are tiny) and into the truck. Standing on the running board can be tiring and tough on the arms. The window side seat next to the driver is very comfortable and well-worth the little extra that you have to pay, so it is best to go early and reserve that seat. === By car === [[File:20160729 traffic in Mandalay 5761.jpg|thumb|Busy street in Mandalay]] You can hire a private car and driver at reasonable rates to tour independently. The licensed guides at Shwedagon Paya in Yangon can arrange to have a driver with a car meet you at your hotel. Another way is to arrange for a car through a travel agency, though it can be quite expensive. You can "test" the driver and the car by driving around the city for 10 or 15 minutes. If you are satisfied, a departure date and time and per diem rates (inclusive of petrol) can be negotiated. Some guides are willing to travel with you to serve as interpreters. Traffic drives on the '''right''' in Myanmar, but confusingly, Myanmar has a mixture of left- and right-hand-drive cars, with the majority of vehicles being right-hand-drive as a result of being second-hand imports from Japan or Thailand. Road travel to tourist destinations is generally safe, although some roads may be rough. Highways are often 2-lane, and cars often pass one another recklessly. That being said, driving habits are not quite as aggressive as say, [[Vietnam]]. Allow two days to drive from Yangon to Bagan in fair weather. Pyay is a good stopover point. Allow a day to drive from Bagan to Inle Lake. In cities, it is considered illegal to cross an amber light without stopping. Despite having crossed 3/4 of the way, you will be required to stop in the middle of the road and make your way back in reverse! Accidents and fatalities are common. Night-time road travel is not recommended, and medical facilities are limited in rural areas. At government hospitals, bribes may be required for services. Make sure needles are new or carry your own. HIV is a major problem in Myanmar. ===By taxi=== All taxis (and by extension all vehicles for transport of people and goods) have red/white licence plates, while private vehicles have a black/white licence plate. Tourist agency-owned cars have a blue/white licence plate. ===By ride-hailing=== The main ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/mm/en/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former South-east Asian operations, including that of Myanmar. Uber's short-lived venture into Myanmar occurred just one year prior to its takeover by Grab. In common with Grab's operations elsewhere in Southeast Asia, cash is not required as you can use the Grab app to pay with your card, though cash remains readily accepted. === By motorbike === In Yangon, riding motorcycles is illegal. Mandalay's streets, on the other hand, are filled with them. === By bicycle === In many places you can easily rent a bicycle for about 1,500 kyat per day to move around in your own pace. Around Inle Lake, cycling is a relaxing way to get to the next village or lake viewpoint. Mandalay is laid out on a grid which makes it very easy to navigate while cycling. Tourists used to pedal bicycles around the sights of Bagan, across difficult sandy paths under the hot sun, however electric bicycles are now the norm. At around ten times the price of a conventional bicycle, they are well worth the money. === On foot === Cars and pedestrians may not follow the established rules, and crossing the road can be difficult. Drivers will almost never yield to pedestrians, even on striped pedestrian crossings. ==See== [[File:InleRowing.jpg|300px|thumb|Leg rowing, Inle Lake]] Myanmar has not been a popular destination in Southeast Asia as visitors have been largely deterred by the country's volatile politics and restrictions placed on travel. But the political and travel situation has been improving notably since 2015. The country is a true, unspoiled treasure trove, and should capture the imagination of anyone interested in culture and history. Walking around [[Yangon]] brings you back to the time of 19th-century British colonial rule. Sparkling-clean parks and temples stand side by side decayed colonial-style buildings and deep potholes. Its cultural and religious attractions, like the '''Shwedagon Pagoda''', add to the city's feel of exoticism, as do the smiles of the locals. Every street corner brings something new—and a short ferry over the river even gives you a glimpse of rural life in the country. Cities of cultural and historical interest close to Yangon are [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] with its Buddhist sights, the delta town of [[Twante]] known for its pottery, and the pilgrimage site of [[Kyaiktiyo]] with its gold-gilded rock balancing precariously over a cliff. It's definitely worth it to further explore the Bamar heartland. Unfortunately some outer fringes of the country are off-limits to foreigners, but it's always worth checking the latest situation with people on the ground as things move so fast that the Internet rarely if ever has correct information. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703742020).jpg|thumb|Pyin U Lwin]] The former city of [[Bagan]] is a gem, and gives a glimpse of what life in the 11th and 12th centuries here must have been like. Marco Polo described it as the "gilded city alive with tinkling bells and the swishing sounds of monks' robes". It is the largest and densest concentration of Buddhist temples, pagodas, stupas and ruins in the world. [[Mrauk U]] is a sleepy village today but its crumbling pagodas and temples remind of the early modern period, when it was the capital city of an empire involved in extensive maritime trade with Portuguese, Dutch, French and Arab traders. Within a daytrip from [[Mandalay]] is [[Inwa]], another former capital where ruins remain to remind visitors of its former glory. Also don't miss [[Pyin U Lwin]], a former British hill station with somewhat cooler temperatures. The country has its fair share of '''natural attractions'''. [[Inle Lake]] is popular with backpackers, and it is one of the few places that is starting to feel like a tourist trap. Still, a trip to Myanmar is not complete without a boat trip on the lake. It has a unique vibe with tribes living in stilt houses and paddling their traditional wooden boats with one leg. The country's long southwestern coastline also has a few '''beaches''', such as [[Chaung Tha]] and [[Ngapali]]. If you visit outside of the traditional holiday season, you might just have a beautiful white sand beach for yourself. Myanmar is a country inhabited with dozens of ethnic groups, but sites from the major '''independent Burmese kingdoms''' dating from the 9th century can be seen in sections of the country. ==Do== [[File:Chinlone Burma.jpg|thumb|Burmese men playing chinlone]] Myanmar is an excellent country for '''trekking'''. [[Kalaw]] is a centre for trekking, and has miles and miles of trails through mountains and hill tribe villages. [[Kengtung]] is also known for its hiking paths to hill tribe villages, while [[Hsipaw]] has some great treks to waterfalls. '''Birdwatching''' can be done around [[Inle Lake]]. Myanmar's national sport is '''chinlone''', played with a small rattan ball. The objective of the game is to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible without using one's arms or hands, and to do it as beautifully as possible. Spectacular '''scuba diving''' and unspoiled beaches abound in the Mergui Archipelago in [[southeastern Myanmar]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Myanmar kyat (official rates) | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;kyat | date=January 2025 | USD=2,100 | EUR=2,500 | GBP=2,800 | CNY=300 | INR=25 | THB=605 | SGD=1,530 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mmk-burmese-kyat xe.com]}} {{infobox|Currency Games |Myanmar is still predominantly a cash economy. However, ATMs are widespread. In a misguided attempt to fight rampant black marketeering, the Myanmar government has a habit of ''declaring notes to be worthless'': this happened first in 1964. In 1985, the 20, 50, and 100 kyat notes were withdrawn again and replaced with new kyat notes in the unusual denominations of 25, 35, and 75, possibly chosen because of dictator general Ne Win's predilection for numerology; the 75-kyat note was introduced on his 75th birthday. In 1987, the government demonetized the 25, 35, and 75 kyat notes with no prior warning, rendering some 75% of the country's currency worthless. A new series of 15, 45, and 90-kyat notes was issued, incorporating Ne Win's favourite number 9. The resulting economic disturbances led to serious riots and eventually the 1989 coup by General Saw Maung. The post-coup notes come in more normal denominations from 1–1,000 kyat, and this time the old ones remain legal tender, so far.}} Myanmar's currency is the '''kyat''', pronounced "chat". Prices may be shown locally using the abbreviation of '''K''' (singular or plural) or '''Ks''' (plural) either before or after the amount and depending very much on who is doing the sign writing. The ISO abbreviation is '''MMK'''. Wikivoyage articles will use ''kyat'' to denote the currency. ''Pya'' are coins, and are rarely seen since their value has become increasingly insignificant with even the largest 50 pya coin worth less than US$0.001. Banknotes of Myanmar are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 kyats. You may also come across 20, 10, 5, and 1 ''kyat'' and 50 ''pya'' banknotes. They are valid but rarely found and best held onto as souvenirs. Older banknotes in strange denominations are sold to tourists and, while typically genuine, are rarely if ever valuable. The notes of 50 kyat, 100 kyat, 200 kyat, and 500 kyat are usually in a horrible condition, but are generally accepted when making small purchases. The 1,000 kyat notes are slightly better. 5,000 and 10,000 kyat notes always appear new after exchanging foreign currencies. When exchanging money, check that the banknotes you receive are in a generally good condition. If the exchange gives you kyat notes in horrible condition, you can ask them to exchange them for notes in better condition. Dispose of remaining kyat before leaving. Outside of Myanmar, kyat is almost worthless but do make nice souvenirs. Kyat cannot be legally exchanged abroad, though some money changers in places with large overseas Burmese populations such as [[Singapore]] will exchange anyway, but at terrible rates. Kyat can be exchanged on departure from Yangon Airport at decent rates. ====US dollars==== {{infobox|Is it safe?|So, you're travelling around carrying hundreds, if not thousands, of U.S. dollars stuffed into your pockets in a country where most people subsist on a few dollars a day. Everyone around you knows that if they could get their hands on the money in your pockets, they will be rich for life. What, you may ask, are the odds that someone will try to relieve you of your money? The answer: almost nil. There have been very few instances of a tourist being mugged and only the rare cases of pilfering. Myanmar is an extremely safe country for travellers. Some say it is because of the nature of the people. Others say it is because the punishment for robbing from a foreigner is draconian, whilst others say it is because of Buddhism, which prohibits people from taking what is not given.}} Foreigners are no longer required to pay in U.S. dollars for hotels, tourist attractions, rail and air tickets, ferry travel and for bus tickets. As of 2015, foreign currency instability and the weakening kyat means that many venues will state prices in U.S. dollars, even though it is illegal to do so. Expat restaurants still often quote in U.S. dollars despite actions from the Central Bank prohibiting excess dollar usage. It is illegal for a Myanmar citizen to accept (or hold) U.S. dollars without a licence, but this law is mostly ignored and U.S. dollars are generally accepted. Never insist, though, because it may be dangerous for the receiver. Bring very clean, unfolded U.S. dollars (or they will not be accepted by hotels, restaurants and money changers). Even small imperfections can be cause to reject a U.S. banknote. Keep all U.S. dollars in impeccable condition, and do not fold them. If you do end up with a few, try using them for purchases rather than exchange, or try to exchange them in a few different places. ====ATMs==== There are plenty of ATMs all across the country accepting international Visa and MasterCard. The bigger and more touristic the place the more ATMs it has. Smaller tourist destinations also have ATMs (Bagu, Hpa-An, etc.), but not so many. Make sure to carry a buffer outside of major tourist hotspots. If an ATM does not work, try the next one. Usual withdrawal limit is 300,000 kyat with a processing fee of 5,000 kyat. In case you run out of money, ask your taxi driver to drive you to the CB Bank ATM. '''Note''': Your bank may refuse to process ATM transactions with some/all banks in Myanmar, even if the ATM accepts Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank prior to entering the country. ====Credit cards==== Upmarket tourist places (hotels, agencies, restaurants) are accepting credit cards (and will surcharge accordingly). So you can even pay with mastercard in a store in the middle of Inle Lake for purchases value more than US$100. But nonetheless paper money is the only way to pay in most places. Beside the ATMs, there are places (e.g. hotels in Yangon) where cash can be obtained with a credit card (''cash advance''), but the rates are extremely uncompetitive (with premiums certainly no lower than around 7%, and with quotes of 30% and more frequently reported). Also, they may need to see your passport to process the transaction. For US citizens, it is also possible to receive funds from friends or relatives in an emergencies through the US Embassy. ====Money exchange==== The foreign currency of choice in Myanmar is the US dollar, though you can readily also exchange euros and Singapore dollars in Yangon and Mandalay, but perhaps not beyond. Other options are the Chinese Yuan and Thai Baht. The best rates are in Yangon and Mandalay. Major foreign currencies need to be in good condition—other currencies like rupees and baht are often accepted even if worn out. The military junta re-imposed currency controls in 2021, again leading to a yawning gap between the official rate (fixed at 2100 kyat/dollar) and the black market rate, which ranged from 3,400 to 5,600/dollar in 2024. Banks and money changers only sell kyat at the official rate. Exchanging on the '''black market is illegal''': sellers risking jail time and the junta periodically cracks down. Especially on holidays and Sundays, all your necessary money should be changed at the airport as banks in town are closed. Money changers offer significantly lower rates (5-10% lower) for changing US dollars and euros. The most hassle-free option is to change all your required money at the airport, depending on the rate to change it back. Look around different banks for the best exchange rate. Be sure to bring a mix of foreign denominations when visiting Myanmar because money changers will sometimes not give change and smaller notes (in good condition) are useful for some entry fees and transport. Even though, larger bills give the best exchange rates at banks. Ensure that foreign notes are: * Unmarked – No stamps, anti-counterfeit pen, ink or any other mark on them at all. Pencil can be removed with a good eraser, but any permanent marks will greatly decrease a note's value and ability to be exchanged. * Fresh, crisp and as close to brand new as possible – Moneychangers have been known to reject notes just for being creased and/or lightly worn. * Undamaged – No tears, missing bits and pieces, holes, repairs or anything of that sort. * Preferably of the new design, with the larger portrait, and the multiple-colour prints. Although, old-style US$1 are still commonly traded. * For US$100 bills, have no serial numbers starting "CB". This is because they are associated with a counterfeit "superbill" which was in circulation some time ago. '''Scams''': * There are a number of tricks and scams running around Myanmar trapping tourists who are carrying US dollars. Sometimes, guesthouses or traders will try and pass you damaged or nonexchangeable bills in change. Always inspect all notes when making a purchase and request that the vendor swap any notes you think you will have trouble using down the track—this is perfectly acceptable behaviour for both vendors and customers, so don't be shy. * Some money changers will also attempt sleight of hand tricks to either swap your good banknotes for damaged, or lower denomination notes. Other reports suggest that the kyats may be counted and then somehow, some disappear from the table during the transaction. For example, after going through an elaborate counting process for piles of ten 1,000 kyat notes, some money changers will pull some notes out as they count the piles of ten. * When changing money, be sure that, after any money is counted, it is not touched by anyone until the deal is sealed. Also do not allow your dollars or major foreign currencies to be removed from your sight until all is agreed; in fact, it is not even necessary to pull out your US dollars until your are paying for the kyats you received. It sounds extreme, but ending up in a country where you cannot access whatever savings you have, and having a good portion of your budget rendered useless (until you get to more relaxed changers in Bangkok) can really put a dampener on your plans. ====Travellers cheques==== Travellers cheques are '''not accepted''' in Myanmar. The only exception might be some especially shady money changer, but be prepared to pay an astronomical commission (30% is not uncommon). ===Shopping=== When visiting tourist attractions, you will likely be swarmed by local hawkers, many of them children, trying to sell you souvenirs. Be sure to [[Bargaining|bargain]] hard should you decide to buy from them. Owing to decades of repressive military rule, a great many service and travel-oriented companies have strong links to the military. These are vital ways for the military to earn money, particularly foreign currency. If you wish to avoid spending money at military-owned or military-associated businesses, download the [https://waywaynay.com/ Way Way Nay Boycott app]. ====Tipping==== Tipping is generally not practised by the Burmese themselves. However, given widespread poverty in the country, tips are certainly appreciated if you have been provided with exemplary service. Tips that are charged to a credit card almost never make it to the service staff, so if you wish to tip, make sure you hand it over in cash to the person who served you. ====Costs==== Despite being less developed, Myanmar is expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or Vietnam. This is particularly true of hotel prices in the main tourists areas, as demand far outstrips supply. Similarly, the lack of competition from budget airlines has also made domestic flights rather expensive. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703766279).jpg|thumb|Night market in Pyin U Lwin]] It's not possible to be comfortable on less than US$25/day (May 2013). Foreigners will likely be charged fees, including video camera, camera, entrance, parking and zone fees. Most managed tourist site charge for carrying cameras of any sort into the area. Double rooms with private bathroom are nearly always more than US$20, in Yangon a double room without bathroom costs US$20. Dorm beds are around US$10 (or US$8 if you accept to lose a lot of value) (Sep 2015). While you cannot save on accommodation, you can save on food. Street food can get as low as US$0.30 for 2 small curries with 2 Indian breads, US$1 for a normal (vegetarian) dish. Even in touristy places like Bagan dishes cost under US$1 (vegetarian) and US$2 (meat). A draught Myanmar beer (5%) is around 600 kyat, a bottle of Myanmar beer (650 ml) is around 1,700 kyat, a bottle of Mandalay beer (6.5%, 650 ml) around 1,200 kyat. ====What to buy==== * '''Antiques''' – Purchasing antiquities and antiques in Myanmar is at best a legal grey area with the 2015 passage of the new Antiquities Law, and often illegal for any item over 100 years old. Penalties include prison and fines. It is recommended to avoid purchasing antiques as a tourist, unless you're willing to get an export permit from the Ministry of Culture on your way out and you have enough knowledge to avoid the fakes. Replicas and fakes are rife in Bogyoke market and other anitque stores frequented by tourists. It is against the law to export religious antiques (manuscripts, Buddhas, etc.) * '''Art''' – The Myanmar Art market has exploded, with local artists' works going for good values in Yangon and Mandalay. Visit the numerous galleries in Yangon to get a feel for available works. Art is often related to Buddhism and the difficult socio-political situation, as well as more traditional Victorian-influenced subjects like markets, old women smoking cigars, tribal members, and monks. There is a lot of cheap/mass-painted and derivative works at Bogyoke Market. * '''[[Gemstones]]''' – Myanmar is best known as for its [[jade]] and [[rubies]] (the granting of a license to the French over the ruby mines in [[Mogok]] was one of the causes leading to the Third Burmese War), and also produces some really fine [[sapphires]]. These can be obtained at a fraction of what it would cost in the West. There are a lot of fakes for sale amid the genuine stuff and, unless you know your gems, buy from an official government store or risk being cheated. Bogoyoke Aung San Market and the Myanmar Gems Museum in [[Yangon]] has many licensed shops and is generally a safe place for the purchase of these stones. The jade market in [[Mandalay]] is also worth a visit, where most of the jade is brought from the mines to be sold to merchants, and you can observe merchants haggling over the prices of both raw jade and various jade items in all stages of the production process. You can also purchase some jade trinkets yourself, but be prepared to haggle, and make sure you do your homework before buying or you risk getting ripped off. * '''Lacquerware''' – A popular purchase, which is made into bowls, cups, vases, tables and various items, and is available almost anywhere. The traditional centre of lacquerware production is [[Bagan]] in [[Central Myanmar]], and most tours include a stop at one of the local lacquerware factories where you can purchase one of these. Beware of fraudulent lacquer ware, though, which is poorly made, but looks authentic. As a guide, the stiffer the lacquer, the poorer the quality; the more you can bend and twist it, the finer the quality. * '''Tapestries''' – Known as ''kalaga'', or ''shwe chi doe''. There is a long tradition of weaving tapestries in Burma. These are decorated with gold and silver thread and sequins and usually depict tales from the Buddhist scriptures (the ''jatakas'') or other non-secular objects from Burmese Buddhism (mythical animals, the ''hintha'', and the ''kalong'' are also popular subjects). The tapestry tradition is dying out but many are made for tourists and are available in Mandalay and Yangon. Burmese tapestries don't last long, so be warned if someone tries to sell you an antique ''shwe chi doe''! * '''Textiles''' – Textiles in Myanmar are stunning. Each region and each ethnic group has its own style. Chin fabrics are particularly stunning. They are handwoven in intricate geometric patterns, often in deep reds and mossy greens and white. They can be quite pricey, perhaps US$20 for the cloth to make a longyi (sarong). ==Eat== [[File:Outdoor café, Yangon, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Outdoor café in Yangon]] Burmese food is influenced by that of India and China, yet unique. Apart from Burmese food, other ethnic traditional foods such as Shan food, Rakhine food, and Myeik food are also distinct. Rice is at the core of Burmese food, and good vegetarian food is widely available. Burmese food is often extremely pungent. Similar to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, '''fish sauce''' (ငံပြာရည် ''ngan bya yay'') is a very popular condiment in Myanmar, and is used to flavour many dishes. Food is inexpensive at most restaurants (priced at 500–3,000 kyat per item at most local restaurants, but can go as high as 8,000 kyat at posh restaurants). There are many up-market restaurants in Yangon and Mandalay. The majority of low-to-mid-priced restaurants use a cheap blend of palm oil for cooking. This oil may be unhealthy, and common roadside restaurants should be avoided if you are at the slightest risk for hypertension, heart disease, or other fat- or cholesterol-related conditions. Higher class restaurants may use peanut oil instead. Specific dishes include: [[File:Chapati and mutton curry.JPG|thumb|Chapati and mutton curry]] * '''Curry''' &ndash; Burmese people have a very different definition of curry than other countries. It is very spicy compared to Indian and Thai options, and although you may find it served at room temperature in cheaper restaurants, in a typical Burmese home all curry dishes are served hot. Burmese curry does not contain coconut milk, unlike its other SE Asian counterparts, and has a large quantity of onion or tomato depending on region and cook's preference. Myanmar is the highest per-capita consumer of onions in the world. Quite often Burmese curries are cooked with lots of oil, much more than other regional curries. * '''Samosa thoke''' (samosa salad) &ndash; A popular street dish of chickpeas, potatoes, tomato, cabbage, mint and a smashed samosa. * '''Mohinga''' (pronounced ''mo-HIN-ga'') &ndash; A dish of rice vermicelli with fish chowder, usually accompanied by coriander and chili powder. Its taste can range from sweet to spicy, and is usually eaten at breakfast. It is considered by many to be the national dish, and is widely available throughout the country, albeit in different styles in different regions. * '''Mote lin-mayar''' (Couples snacks) &ndash; Small tiny pancakes with chives, chickpeas or quail eggs. * '''Sticky rice''' &ndash; Served plain or with turmeric or black rice * '''Nan Gyi Thoke''' (pronounced ''nan gyi thou'') &ndash; A special dish of rice noodle salad with chicken sauce. It is mostly eaten in mid-Myanmar. * '''Onnokauswe''' (pronounced ''oun-NO-kao-sui'') &ndash; A dish of thicker noodles in a thick soup of coconut milk with chicken. It is served with a variety of condiments accompanying it, ranging from fried fruit fritters to solidified duck blood. "Khao soi"("noodle" in Shan), often found on the streets of Chiang Mai, is derived from this Burmese counterpart. It is also comparable to the spicier laksa often found in peninsular SE countries like Malaysia and Singapore. * '''Shan food''' &ndash; The Shan are an ethnic group who inhabit Shan State around Inle lake, near the Thai border. Their food is marvelous. It can be found in Yangon easily. :* '''Shan tofu''' &ndash; Made with mung beans instead of soya beans these yellow blocks are served fried or in a cold noodle salad. :* '''Laphet thote''' (pronounced ''la-peh THOU'') &ndash; A salad of fermented tea leaves and a variety of fried nuts. It is commonly mixed with sliced lettuce, and is eaten with rice. * '''Chinese food''' &ndash; Available in most cities and usually authentic, if plain. * '''Kachin food''' &ndash; Mainly available in Kachin State, though a number of Kachin restaurants can be found in Yangon and Mandalay. Kachin food is less oily and uses less MSG than Burmese food, and you may find it a good alternative if Burmese curries are not to your liking. == Drink == '''Tap water''' in Myanmar is not safe to drink, however factory-made ice in restaurants and other shops is OK. '''Bottled water''' is readily available. You can also safely drink from the many clay jars dotted around the country, or find safe drinking water in temples. Just look for the large steel tanks with cups tied to the spigots. Water in the clay jars is filtered and many Myanmar people use them. Owners of the jars fill them up with water as a way to make merit. Similar to Chinese tea, ''Yenwejan'' is usually provided free at restaurant tables. While not flavourful, it is boiled water, and so safe to drink (do not drink plain water - even in restaurants - unless it is bottled water). Dried tea leaves similar to Laphet thote's tea leaves (except these are wet) are added to the boiled water to give ''Yenwejan''. Be sure to order it with ''Laphet thote'' (customary/good combination). '''Milk tea''' (လက်ဖက်ရည် ''La-Phet-Yay'') is also popular in Myanmar and widely available in the local markets and teahouses but beware: the Burmese like their milk teas very, ''very'' sweet. '''Alcohol''' is frowned upon by conservative Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, but consumed widely, mostly among men. Myanmar Beer is most popular in the country. Other variants, including Mandalay Beer exist. However, many of such companies are government-owned and/or have links to the drug trade. '''Toddy juice''' (''ta-YEI'') is popular in central Myanmar, and is made from fermented palm sugar. An alcoholic drink popular in the Shan State is '''Shwe le maw''', and is reportedly very strong. It is also possible to buy full strength Beer Chang imported from Thailand; exports to most countries are not nearly as strong. Beware of alcoholic drinks served in the far northern states. The locals refer to it as '''alcohol which does not burn''' when lit, and it is widely suspected to be an opiate concoction rather than a fermented beverage. There are a lot of nightclubs, including those attached to the five star hotels (e.g. Grand Plaza), and also local entertainment centres (e.g. JJs, Asia plaza). === Teahouses === [[File:Myanmar Tea House Food.jpg|thumb|Tea and snacks at a tea house]] Teahouses are important places of social gathering and popular throughout the country. They look like restaurants but if you watch closely you will notice that people are drinking a lot of Chinese tea (free), light brown tea and are mainly snacking. Some teahouses also offer simple dishes as fried rice or noodles. Once seated they will expect you to order coffee but that's not what you should go for as it is almost always instant coffee. Order tea, a type of black tea with milk that differ in strength and sweetness: *''bone mahn'': balanced *''cho seh'': sweet *''kyaw p'daung'': sweeter *''pan brown'': bitter and sweet *''jah hseent'': light, with milk, not strong *''pancho'': strong *''bow hseent'': less strong *''noe hseent dee'': milk tea without sugar You will completely mispronounce the tea names (second and sixth are relatively easy) and people might not get what you want at all since it's rare for foreigners to order these teas. So it's better to ask your hotel or any local speaking English to write down the names in Burmese. Since you are a foreigner they will assume that you want your tea ''sheh'' - special - which means it will come with condensed milk. It's also possible to order a ''tankie'' and so the tea will come in a big pot. A simple cup of tea costs 200-400 kyat. Small snacks like samosas, cakes or sweet balls are readily available at the table. If not, ask. At the end you will only pay for the number of pieces eaten. Foodies should check out the type of snacks before deciding on a teahouse. It is not impolite at all to bring your own food, as long as you order at least ''something''. == Sleep == [[File:Sule-Pagoda by-Night.jpg|thumb|Night in Yangon]] Myanmar has good hotel accommodation, particularly in major cities and the main tourist areas, though prices are substantially higher than in [[Thailand]] or [[Vietnam]]. Rooms with attached bath are available for under US$10 everywhere except Yangon and with shared bath for anywhere from US$3–6 in most places. Almost every hotel licensed for foreigners has running hot water (though, in remote areas, availability may be restricted to certain hours of the day). Hotels, with a few exceptions, are usually clean. At the budget end, sheets and blankets may be threadbare and the rooms may be poorly ventilated. A few low-end hotels, particularly in Yangon and other large cities, specialize in cubicle rooms, small single rooms with no windows which, while cheap and clean, are not for the claustrophobic. Rates are quoted as single/double, but the rooms are usually the same whether one person or two stay in the room, making good hotels a real bargain if travelling as a couple. Except at the top-end, breakfast is always included in the price of the room. The tourism boom in Myanmar has left its infrastructure struggling to cope with the increased numbers of visitors. Hotel rooms tend to sell out really fast, and those in popular tourist destinations often sell out months in advance. As a result of the lack of supply, prices have also increased substantially. You should make your hotel bookings well in advance of your planned trip to Myanmar in order not to be stranded when you arrive. Wild camping is not legal in Myanmar. Myanmar has a problem providing enough electricity to its people and power supply is severely restricted everywhere. In many places, electricity may be available only for a few hours each evening or, in some cases, only every alternate evening. If you don't want to spend your nights without a fan or air conditioning, ask if the hotel has a generator (most mid-priced hotels do). On generator nights, the air conditioning in your room may not work (the price is usually lower as well). Even if a hotel has a generator, there is no guarantee that it will be used to provide you electricity at the times you require, so be ready for blackouts at any time of day or night. Major tourist hotels in Yangon and Mandalay have near-uninterrupted electricity supply, but can cost anywhere from US$80–300 per night. At the top-end, Myanmar has some excellent hotels including one or two great ones (The Strand in Yangon and Kandawgyi Palace Hotel in Yangon). The Myanmar government runs many hotels, including some beautiful colonial era ones (though not the two listed in the previous sentence). A percentage of all accommodation payments goes to the government, no matter where you choose to stay, and it is not possible to run a successful business in Myanmar without some relationship or payment arrangement with the military. == Work == {{overseasjobscam|Myanmar, particularly in the areas along the Thai border. In many cases, victims are lured to Thailand with a job offer, then trafficked across the border into Myanmar}} Work in Myanmar for foreigners is hard to come by. NGOs and other aid groups operate in the capital and remote rural areas but may require specific skill sets to hire you. Another option is European and Asian companies, mostly operating on a small scale. Teaching English is feasible in private schools but many foreigners have reported unreasonable contracts, such as withholding pay and refusing to pay those who resign early. The education ministry only hires citizens with teaching certification. If you would like to work and assist Burmese refugees, certain NGOs work in neighbouring [[Thailand]]. == Stay safe == === Crime === The government punishes crime, particularly against tourists, severely; as a result, as far as crime and personal safety go, Myanmar is extremely safe for tourists, and it is generally safe to walk on the streets alone at night. In fact, you are less likely to be a victim of crime in Myanmar than in [[Thailand]] or [[Malaysia]]. However, as with anywhere else, little crime does not mean no crime and it is still no excuse to ditch your common sense. As a foreigner, the most common crime you should be worried about is petty theft, so keep your belongings secured. Physical and verbal harassment towards foreigners is uncommon, even on urban walks near bars. Since 2005, [[Yangon]] and [[Mandalay]] have seen a barely perceptible rise in the very low level of street robberies. There were isolated bombings in 2005 in Mandalay and Yangon, and in 2006 in [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]. === Illegal substances === {{Warningbox|Drug offences are '''''severely punished''''' by the Burmese authorities. Convicted offenders can expect to face lengthy prison sentences. |us = https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Burma.html |canada = https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar }} ===Begging=== Despite traditional taboos against it, [[begging]] has become a major problem in the main tourist areas such as [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] and [[Bagan]]. Children and "mothers" carrying babies are often the ones who beg as they are more effective at soliciting pity. Most beggars are part of larger begging syndicates or just after easy money, as tourists are usually seen to be rich. In addition, the poor can always obtain food for free from the nearest monastery if they can't afford to pay for it, so begging is not necessary for their survival. If you choose to give, note that most Burmese earn only US$40 a month doing manual labour and so giving US$1 to a beggar is ''very'' generous. ===Fake monks=== Theravada Buddhism is the main religion in Myanmar, and it is customary for monks to go on alms rounds in the morning. Unfortunately, there are also many bogus monks who hang out around the main tourist attractions preying on unsuspecting visitors. Alms rounds are solely for the purpose of collecting food: genuine monks are forbidden from accepting, or even touching money. Monks are forbidden from eating after noon, and are also not allowed to sell items or use high pressure tactics to solicit donations. Authentic monks are often found in single file lines with their alms bowls. If you see a single monk requesting money from foreigners he is a fraud. === Corruption === Myanmar is one of the world's most corrupt countries. Officials and other civil servants may discreetly ask you for a bribe, or invent issues (missing forms, closed offices, etc.) in order to get you to suggest one. Pretending not to understand or asking to speak to a superior may work. However, white visitors are rarely targeted, while those of Asian descent (including South Asians and East Asians) may be forced to give bribes, but the brunt of the problem hits normal Burmese. Westerners are very rarely asked for bribes, although most bribes are a US dollar or less, and requested by people earning as little as US$30/month. === Driving conditions === [[File:Jampacked car in Kalaw (Myanmar 2013) (11773361556).jpg|thumb|One of many right-hand drive vehicles imported from Japan into Myanmar. These cause inherent visibility problems when driving on the right side of the road]] The poor road infrastructure, and a mixture of extremely ancient vehicles on the country's roads are all what best describe the road conditions. However, driving habits are not very aggressive compared to say, [[Vietnam]], which does make the safety of the roads comfortable for almost everyone. Although rare, youths sometimes compete against each other on the roads, which has led to some casualties over the past few years. Bus drivers are among the worst dangers, although this is somewhat less of an issue since 2010 due to new, very harsh penalties imposed on bus drivers involved in accidents. Surprisingly, Burma has a mixture of both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, with the majority being right-hand drive (used imports from Japan) but driving is generally done on the right side of the roads. Unless you have experience driving in countries with poorly disciplined drivers and very shabby vehicles, try to avoid driving in Myanmar; alternatively, arrange for a local driver to take you around. === Civil conflict === Various insurgent groups continue to operate in the '''Mon, and Chin (Zomi), states''' of Myanmar, along the Thai and Chinese borders. Travel to these regions generally requires a government permit. The government also sometimes restricts travel to '''Kayah State, Rakhine State, and Kachin State''' due to insurgent activity. However travel is entirely unrestricted to the districts of Yangon, Bago, Ayeyarwady, Sagaing, Taninthayi, Mandalay, and Magwe. Some areas that have been reported as closed have become open without notice, and areas previously regarded as open can become closed with no warning. In addition, local immigration offices may have their own interpretations of regulations. === Politics === [[File:Propaganda, Myanmar 2.jpg|thumb|"Tatmadaw [Armed Forces] and the people in eternal unity. Anyone attempting to divide them is our enemy."]] Myanmar is again under harsh military rule as it was from 1962 - 2012, with a reputation for repressing dissent, as in the case of the house arrest of democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi. There used to be more than 1,500 political prisoners (sentences of 65 years and hard labor in remote camps were given to leaders of the Saffron Revolution), although some have been released. When in Myanmar, abstain from political activities and don't insult the government. Discuss politics, if you must, with people who have had time to get a feel for you. The danger, however, is primarily posed to those you speak with, so let them lead the conversation. Also, realize that many phone lines are tapped. And if you absolutely must wave a democracy banner on the street, you'll simply find yourself on the next outbound flight. Between 2012–2020, liberty in general increased under the new government. A few politically critical articles have been published in government newspapers and a satirical film deriding the government's film censorship policy has been released, neither of which would have been possible even in 2010. Returning visitors to Myanmar may find that locals have become ever so slightly more open to discussions regarding politics. However, under any circumstances avoid doing things that might make the military or police feel uncomfortable, such as taking pictures of police and police buildings or vehicles. == Stay healthy == Hygiene in Myanmar may seem terrible to the average Westerner but it is possible to stay healthy with some basic precautions such as prophylactic medication, care choosing food and water, and antibacterial ointment. '''Never drink [[tap water]]'''. Restaurants are legally required to use ice made and sold by bottled water companies, so ordering ice is usually safe in major places. Always drink bottled water and check that the cap is sealed on, not simply screwed on. Diseases such as [[dengue fever]], [[Japanese encephalitis]] and [[malaria]] are endemic. Drug-resistant strains of malaria and tuberculosis are common in many areas. Hepatitis vaccinations are highly recommended and the cholera oral vaccine is worthwhile. At the dinner table, Burmese use a spoon and fork, or their fingers when this is more convenient. You might feel better rinsing all of them before meals. Antibacterial wipes or alcohol hand-rub is a good idea at regular intervals. As in many developing countries: "if you can't fry, roast, peel or boil it - then forget it". ===HIV=== The rate of HIV infection in Myanmar is high by Western and Asian standards (0.7% of the population in 2019). ===Healthcare=== Myanmar's healthcare system is poorly funded. If you should fall sick in Myanmar, you can visit the doctor in major cities for minor ailments. However, for more serious medical care, hospital conditions tend to be unsanitary and there is often a shortage of medical supplies. The only hospital that comes close to modern developed standards is Pun Hlaing Hospital, a privately owned hospital which is in a remote township of Yangon called Hlaing Thar Yar, and one should expect very high expenses there. Most of the hospitals are government owned, which means poorly funded. Most of the government officials and rich locals go to [[Thailand]] or [[Singapore]] for more serious medical treatment and hospitalisation, and you will be better off doing so too. Make sure you get travel insurance as arranging to be airlifted in an emergency is rather costly. The clinic formerly operated by the Australian Embassy in Yangon closed in 2018. There is a good [https://myanmarmix.com/en/directory/international-sos-clinic-yangon international medical clinic] at the Inya Lake Hotel in Yangon for consulting, testing, radiology and minor surgery. == Respect == {{infobox|Naming conventions|Unlike in many other cultures, there is generally no concept of a family name, patronymic or matronymic in Burmese culture, and most individuals only have a given name. For example, the 8th President, '''Htin Kyaw''', only has a given name with no family name, patronymic or matronymic, and would be addressed as Mr Htin Kyaw by most English speakers. Often, a Burmese honorific, usually '''U''' (ဦး) for men or '''Daw''' (ဒေါ်) for women, may be added to the beginning of the name, so he may be addressed as ''U Htin Kyaw''.}} [[File:Mrauk U - 0002.jpg|thumb|400px|[[Mrauk U]], the old capital of Rakhine in Myanmar]] Modest clothing is highly appreciated everywhere except nightclubs, and practically required in religious places such as pagodas, temples and monasteries (of which there are thousands). Miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed in consecrated areas, where you also have to remove your footwear, so loafers and flip-flops that you can slip on and off at the entrance are preferable. Myanmar has some of the most stunning temples in Asia and you will be tempted to visit more than you think. In Myanmar, you have to remove your footwear before entering the entire temple complex, including in outdoor areas. You might want to bring some wet wipes so you can clean your feet after visiting. Burmese people generally do not engage in public display of affection, even among married couples, and it is generally considered distasteful and should be avoided. Both men and women wear a ''longyi'', a sort of sarong sold everywhere, and it is not unusual to see Caucasian foreigners walking around in them. They are wrapped in different ways for men and women, so find out how to tie yours. If you turn up at a temple in inappropriate dress, you can always rent a longyi for a pittance. When giving and receiving '''business cards''', always use your right hand with the palm facing up, and your left hand supporting your right elbow. As the left hand is traditionally reserved for dirty things, handling business cards with it is considered to be very rude. Tourists of Caucasian descent are commonly referred to as ''bo'', which translates to "officer", a linguistic relic of colonization. Address elders with ''U'' (pronounced "oo", as in s'''oo'''n) or "Uncle" for men, and ''Daw'' or "Auntie" for women. Generally speaking, despite the common negative perception of the government, most ordinary Burmese people are incredibly friendly and polite as long as you respect their local customs. Customer service is in general very good (some say better than in [[Thailand]]) but customer service staff are invariably poorly paid, so you might wish to tip service staff generously to ensure your money goes into the right hands. ===Politics=== Avoid discussing relations with the Rohingya and the ongoing ethnic cleansing as this is a very sensitive and emotive issue that can potentially escalate into a confrontation. The vast majority of Burmese people regard the Rohingya as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh who have no right to be in Myanmar, and their Muslim religion is seen by many as a threat to Buddhism. Most Burmese people are offended when the Rohingya are referred to as such, and will insist that you use the term "Bengali" to refer to them instead. Tread carefully when discussing relations with [[China]]. Even though both the military junta and Aung San Suu Kyi had developed close ties with China and invited Chinese investment in Myanmar's infrastructure, this is strongly opposed by many pro-democracy activists. While the pro-democracy view on China have largely improved due to alleged Chinese support towards anti-junta ethnic armed organisations, China's policy has equally dissatisfied or even angered pro-junta groups. ===Religion=== {{see also|Buddhism#Respect}} Buddhism is the largest religion in the country, followed by roughly 80-90% of the population. Many Burmese people are religious and fundamentalist Buddhism has seen growing support in the 21st century. As in neighbouring Thailand, monks collect alms in the morning and adhere to strict rules such as abstaining from physical contact with women and not touching money. It is customary for Burmese men to spend time living as a monk at least once in their lifetime. Donations to monks should be spontaneous and given in the form of food only, not money; monetary donations should be placed in donation boxes in temples. If you see a monk with money in his alms bowl, he is fake. Monks are not allowed to eat after noon, so if you see a monk going on alms round after noon, he is fake. Buddhist monks are highly respected, and it is essential to show them respect. Always ask for permission before taking a photograph or touching a monk. It is also important to behave appropriately in their presence. If you are on public transportation, it is customary to give up your seat for them as a sign of respect. Showing any form of disrespect to Buddhism is taken '''very seriously''' in Myanmar and you can expect to be treated with '''no degree of leniency''' if you've been accused of disrespecting Buddhism. Disrespecting Buddhism encompasses things like wearing something with Buddha on it, having a tattoo of Buddha, depicting Buddha in an inappropriate way, and so on. Foreigners have been jailed for disrespecting Buddhism, so be careful about what you say and what you do. Do not speak negatively about religion; it is illegal, under Burmese law, to "insult" religion. What counts as "insulting" religion is very broadly defined and open to interpretation. Refrain from engaging in religious discussions with the Burmese. Swastikas are commonly seen in Buddhist temples and '''should not''' be conflated with anti-Semitism and Nazism. ==Connect== === Telephone === Country Code: +95 International Call Prefix: 00 Phone numbers in Myanmar have the format <code>+95 1 234-5678</code> where "95" is the country code for Myanmar, the next one, two, three or four digits are the area code and the remaining 6, 7 or 8 digits are the "local" part of the subscriber number. You can buy GSM/4G sim cards at International airports or any convenience store. Standard sim card costs around 1500 Ks. Some operators may offer special sim for tourists. There are 4 mobile operators in Myanmar, MPT (Government+KDDI), Telenor, Ooredoo and MyTel (Military+VietTel). MPT in the largest in Myanmar in terms of network coverage and user. Operators offer similar price plans. Generally, standard plan offers voice calls for 20 Ks - 25Ks/min, SMS at 15 Ks - 20 Ks/message. Pay as you go data plan offers around 7 Ks/MB but specific data plan will offer around 1000 Ks/GB or cheaper. Prices for IDD and roaming service vary depending on the operators and destination countries. If you are going to use in urban area only for local call and data, there is not much difference between operators. If you are going to visit remote area, please check which operator is available at there. If you are going to use IDD or roaming, you may wisely choose by checking offering price at their websites. === Mail === International mail out of Myanmar is reportedly quite efficient, despite what some hotels might tell you. As elsewhere, there is always a risk if you send valuables as ordinary parcels. Use EMS for fast, and relatively cheap international parcels. === Internet === Country's telecommunication sector was revolutionized in 2013 and speed is steadily increasing and price become cheaper. As of 2020, free Wi-fi is available at almost every Hotels. Unlike other countries, Myanmar hugely rely on 4G Internet than cable or Wi-fi. Surprisingly, Yangon has 4th-fastest 4G speeds in East Asia despite the fact that it had slowest speeds in Asia before 2013. Seamless 4G Internet is available in every city, town and along major highway roads. Even a small village is likely to be covered with at least 3G Internet unless it is in highly remote or armed conflict area. Data costs are around 1000 kyat ($0.8)/GB. There are also cheaper fancy data plans depending on operators. MPT is largest mobile operator and Telenor is second. 4G sim cards are available at International airports and any convenience store. With the extended coverage of 4G and smart phones, once dominant Internet cafes are getting out of business and turn into gaming stations. In case of you need to access Internet urgently, you can use at those gaming stations but extensive file downloading is not welcome for it can effect their gaming experience. Facebook and Viber are the most used apps and services in Myanmar. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|22|96|zoom=5}} 842buidvs0f7f90fkhauz140yyqt1ht 5091344 5091343 2025-07-11T10:44:42Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091344 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bagan (Myanmar) banner Sunset.jpg|caption=The temples of Bagan at dawn}} {{Warningbox| A nationwide state of emergency remains in force, with nighttime curfews enforced in many cities including Yangon. <!--- Mainland Chinese visitors should be extra careful due to hostility from protesters, and should avoid speaking Mandarin near protest venues.---> Avoid facilities and vehicles linked to security forces and military administration, monitor local media closely, and keep in regular contact with your embassy. Ethnic armed organisations are waging a large-scale offensive in [[Northern Myanmar|Northern]] and [[Eastern Myanmar]] from the Chinese-Myanmar border. Martial law is imposed in part of Shan State, and border crossings along the Chinese-Myanmar border are suspended. There are reports that the prices of many necessities is soaring. Many governments advise against all travel to Myanmar, though the main tourist circuit comprising of [[Yangon]], [[Mandalay]], [[Bagan]] and [[Inle Lake]] is far-removed from the violence and generally safe to visit — corroborated by the UK government's travel advice. A massive earthquake hit the area near Sagaing on 28th March 2025, and a state of emergency has been declared. The earthquake tremors could be felt as far as Hanoi, Vietnam. Many governments advise against all travel to Mandalay and nearby areas. |australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/myanmar |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/myanmar |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar |ie=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/myanmar-burma |sg=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/countries-regions/m/myanmar/travel-page |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/myanmar |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/burma-travel-advisory.html |lastedit=2025-03-31 }} '''Myanmar''' (မြန်မာ ''myanma''), or '''Burma''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]]. The country features awe-inspiring ancient temples, lively local markets, and captivating landscapes, such as unspoiled beaches, picturesque hills, and verdant forests. The genuine warmth of the Burmese people, combined with delectable cuisine, creates an ideal destination for gastronomes and culture aficionados alike. Since the 1960s, the country has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. For a considerable period, Myanmar has been afflicted with political instability, sectarian violence, corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and a prolonged history of colonial exploitation that paid scant attention to human development. == Regions == {{Regionlist | regionmap=Burma Regions Map.png | regionmapsize=425px | region1name=[[Southern Myanmar]] | region1items=''Ayeyarwady, Bago, Yangon'' | region1color=#CAA7C9 | region1description=The lowlands of the Irrawaddy Delta with the largest city and former capital Yangon. | region2name=[[Central Myanmar]] | region2items=''Magway, Mandalay, Naypyitaw'' | region2color=#E5B775 | region2description=Mandalay, historical and archaeological sites and cool hill towns. | region3name=[[Western Myanmar]] | region3items=''Rakhine, Chin'' | region3color=#A4C78A | region3description=Remote mountainous regions and some lovely beaches on the Bay of Bengal. | region4name=[[Northern Myanmar]] | region4items=''Sagaing, Kachin'' | region4color=#d17c82 | region4description=A huge, fractious region including the southern reaches of the Himalayas and many tribes. | region5name=[[Eastern Myanmar]] | region5items=''Shan, Kayah'' | region5color=#76AED2 | region5description=The infamous Golden Triangle and a bewildering number of ethnic groups. | region6name=[[Southeastern Myanmar]] | region6items=''Tanintharyi, Mon, Kayin'' | region6color=#DDE28E | region6description=The southern coastal stretch bordering Thailand with a vast number of offshore islands. }} == Cities == * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Naypyidaw]]|wikidata=Q37400}} (''formerly Pyinmana'') — newly designated capital of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]|wikidata=Q800122}} (''formerly Pegu'') — historic city near Yangon full of Buddhist sights * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kawthaung]]|wikidata=Q978611}} — beach town in the far south which is as much like Thailand as Myanmar gets * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mandalay]]|wikidata=Q185518}} — former capital of the Konbaung Dynasty built around the Mandalay Royal Palace and main commercial centre of Upper Myanmar * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mawlamyine]]|wikidata=Q685941}} (''Moulmein'') — capital of Mon State and the third largest city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pyin U Lwin]]|wikidata=Q1360318}} (''Maymyo'') — a cool town (in both temperature and attractions) which is a former British colonial hill station * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taunggyi]]|wikidata=Q1075566}} — capital of Shan State in the heart of the Golden Triangle * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Twante]]|wikidata=Q7857423}} — a delta town that is famous for pottery * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Yangon]]|wikidata=Q37995}} (''formerly Rangoon'') — the economic centre, known for its pagodas and colonial architecture == Other destinations == <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bagan]]|wikidata=Q29317}} — an archaeological zone with thousands of ancient pagodas near the banks of the Irrawaddy River, and a {{UNESCO}} * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Inle Lake]]|wikidata=Q1043461}} — a large shallow lake famous for boat trips, visiting floating villages inhabited by the Intha people, hiking, and also a source of excellent silk * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kengtung]]|wikidata=Q1027111}} — between [[Mong La]] (on the border with China) and [[Tachileik]] (on the border with Thailand) in the Golden Triangle, known for the ''Ann'' (black teeth people) and ''Akha'' tribes and trekking * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kyaiktiyo]]|wikidata=Q6450666}} — a gold-gilded rock sitting atop a cliff and a major pilgrimage site * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mount Popa]]|wikidata=Q1150764}} — an extinct volcano regarded as the Mount Olympus of Myanmar, a green oasis high above the hot plains and an easy day trip from Bagan * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mrauk U]]|wikidata=Q1951490}} — former capital of the Rakhine Kingdom, with many ancient pagodas that serve as a reminder of that era * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngapali]]|wikidata=Q19701446}} — beach resort in western [[Rakhine State]], on the Bay of Bengal * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngwe Saung]]|wikidata=Q7023181}} — longest stretch of beach in Ayeyarwaddy (English: Irrawaddy) Division, white sandy beach and crystal clear water are the features of Ngwe Saung Beach * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pyay]]|wikidata=Q691747}} — a town on the Irrawaddy River midway between Yangon and Bagan, known for its archaeological site ''Sri Kittara'', the ancient Pyu capital from 2 to 9 CE * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pathein]]|wikidata=Q870103}} — a river town in the Irrawaddy delta, known for manufacture of umbrellas, gateway to Chuang Tha and Ngwe Saung Beaches == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMyanmar.png}} === History === Like most of Southeast Asia's countries, Myanmar's people and history is a glorious mishmash of settlers and invaders from all fronts. The Mon and the Pyu are thought to have come from [[India]], while the now dominant Bamar (Burmese) migrated through [[Tibet]] and, by 849, had founded a powerful kingdom centred on [[Bagan]]. The ethnic diversity of the region, and the dominance of the Bamar people in the central plains, set up the geopolitical struggles between them and the multitude of smaller ethnic groups surrounding, which have continued unabated until the present day. From the 9th century to the 19th century, the Burmese empire grew through conquests of [[Thailand]] ([[Ayutthaya]]) and India ([[Manipur]]), and shrank under attacks from [[China]] and internal rebellions. [[File:Bago, Myanmar (Burma) - panoramio (44).jpg|thumb|Resting Buddha statue in Bago]] Eventually, [[United Kingdom|Britain]] conquered Burma over a period of 62 years (1824-1886) and incorporated it into its Indian Empire, and King Thibaw, the last Burmese monarch, was exiled to [[Ratnagiri]] in what is today [[India]]. Like in their other colonies, the British maintained control partly through a "divide and conquer" strategy, in which they deliberately stoked tensions between different ethnic and religious groups, resulting in ethnic and religious conflicts that have never been resolved. For example, bureaucrats were imported from India, and other government positions tended to be manned by locals from the smaller ethnic groups. Burma was administered as a province of India until 1937 when it became a separate colony. During the Second World War, Burma was a major battleground as the Allies fought the Japanese for dominance over Asia. The [[Burma Road]] was built to get supplies to China. The Thailand-Burma railway (the so-called "Death Railway") from [[Kanchanaburi]] in Thailand over the River Kwai to Burma was built by the Japanese using forced labour &mdash; Allied prisoners-of-war, indentured Thai labourers, Burmese people and other Southeast Asians. They had to work in appalling conditions and a great number of them died (estimated at 80,000) during construction of the railway. Large parts of Western Burma, particularly the hilly areas bordering India and the city of [[Mandalay]], were severely damaged during the war. Burmese independence fighters led by '''General Aung San''' cooperated with the Japanese to oust the British at first; the Japanese promised to grant independence to Burma in exchange. However, life under Japanese occupation was even more brutal than life under British colonialism, and many Burmese were killed, such as in the Kalagong massacre. Aung San subsequently switched allegiance and helped the allies win Burma back from the Japanese. Aung San subsequently led negotiations with the British for Burmese independence after the end of World War II, and the British agreed in 1947 to grant independence to Burma the following year, though Aung San himself was assassinated later in 1947 and never lived to see his dream come true. Independence from the British under the name '''Union of Burma''' was finally attained on 4 January 1948, and General Aung San is regarded by most Burmese people to be their father of independence. The new union brought together various states defined by ethnic identity, many of whom had centuries-long histories of autonomy from and struggles against each other. In the interest of securing their collective independence from Britain, the tribes reached an agreement to submit to collective governance—with power sharing among the ethnicities and states—for ten years, after which each tribe would be afforded the right to secede from the union. The terms of this "Pinlon Agreement" were enshrined in the 1947/1948 constitution of the new Union of Burma. The new central government of the nation quickly worked to consolidate its power, marginalising and angering tribal leaders and setting off ethnic armed conflict that has continued unabated until the present day. In 1961, more than 200 ethnic leaders from the Shan people, Kachin people, Red Karen, Karen people, Chin peoples, Mon people and Rakhine people met with ethnic Bamar (Burmese) central government authorities to draft a new form of government which would ensure the tribes both autonomy and self-determination within a federal system. [[File:Aung San Suu Kyi December 2011 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Aung San Suu Kyi]] The new government was never formed. Nevertheless, up until Ne Win's coup in 1962, Burma was regarded as one of the most developed and fastest growing economies in Asia, and widely touted as a contender to be the next Japan. Military leader General Ne Win led a coup d'état which ousted the democratically elected government in 1962, and installed himself as leader. General Ne Win dominated the government from 1962 to 1988, first as military ruler, then as self-appointed president, and later as political kingpin. Under Ne Win's rule, widespread corruption and nepotism led the Burmese economy into a downward spiral from which it has never fully recovered. Pro-democracy demonstrations in 1988 were violently crushed, with general Saw Maung taking over in a coup and installing the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) to rule the country, now renamed '''Myanmar'''. Multiparty legislative elections were held in 1990, with the main opposition party - the National League for Democracy (NLD) - winning a landslide victory (392 of 489 seats). But SLORC refused to hand over power, instead placing NLD leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi (daughter of national hero Aung San) under house arrest, which she has endured for 14 of the last 20 years. Today Myanmar, a resource-rich country, suffers from pervasive government controls, inefficient economic policies, and rural poverty. What was once one of the richest and most developed countries in Asia has since slumped into poverty due to widespread corruption. The junta took steps in the early 1990s to liberalise price controls after decades of failure under the "Burmese Way to Socialism," but had to reinstate subsidised prices on staples in the face of food riots, upon which the democracy movement grafted its agenda. The government called out troops and the rioters were defiant until the monks intervened: standing between both sides, they told everyone to go home and they did. The riots caused overseas development assistance to cease and the government subsequently nullified the results of the 1990 legislative elections. In response to the government's attack in May 2003 on Aung San Suu Kyi and her convoy, the [[USA]] imposed new economic sanctions against Myanmar, including bans on imports of products from Myanmar and on provision of financial services by US citizens. [[File:NLD Flag from car Yangon.png|thumb|A National League for Democracy supporter in Yangon]] The summer of 2007 was marked by demonstrations against the military government which were again brutally suppressed. The demonstrations started in August, apparently in an uncoordinated manner, as a protest against a stiff hike in the price of petrol, but morphed into a more serious challenge to the government after three monks were beaten at a protest march in the town of Pakokku. The monks demanded an apology but none was forthcoming and soon processions of monks with begging bowls held upside down filled many cities (including [[Sittwe]], [[Mandalay]] and [[Yangon]]). Yangon, particularly the area around Sule Pagoda in the downtown area, became the centre of these protests. While the monks marched, and many ordinary citizens came out in support of the monks, the world watched as pictures, videos, and blogs flooded the Internet. However, the government soon suppressed the protests by firing on crowds, arresting monks and closing monasteries, and temporarily shut down Internet communications with the rest of the world. This led the US, [[Australia]], [[Canada]] and the [[European Union]] to impose additional sanctions, some targeting the families and finances of the military leaders. [[File:Protesters against the military coup.jpg|thumb|Protesters demonstrating against the 2021 military coup]] Following elections in 2010, Burma began a process of liberalisation that has led to a reduction or removal of sanctions by many nations including the United States. In 2012, Aung San Suu Kyi was elected to the Burmese parliament and allowed to travel to Europe and North America. Censorship of foreign and local news was also suspended. In November 2015, Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won a landslide victory in the nationwide legislative elections and Htin Kyaw, a close ally of Aung San Suu Kyi, became president. In April 2016, Aung San Suu Kyi took office as State Counsellor, a post equivalent to prime minister, making her Myanmar's ''de facto'' head of government. In February 2021, the military once again took power in a coup d'état after a landslide victory by the NLD. Country-wide mass protests and a civil disobedience movement sprung up in the aftermath; protests were brutally crushed as the army killed hundreds of NLD supporters and democratic activists. Thousands of NLD and other pro-democracy politicians, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and community leaders were arrested. Peaceful protests still occur sporadically while other groups of protesters have taken up arms against the military regime, particularly in the border regions. Western countries have re-imposed economic sanctions on Myanmar as a result of the coup. As of mid-2024, the junta controls less than half of the area of the country, and Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) have been successfully mounting co-ordinated attacks with increasing confidence. However, this brutal civil war still has no end in sight. ===Culture=== Myanmar's culture is largely a result of Indian influences intertwined with local traditions and Chinese influences. This can be seen in the various stupas and temples throughout the country, which bear a distinct resemblance to those in northern India. As in neighbouring [[Thailand]], Theravada Buddhism is the single largest religion. 88% of the population follows these Buddhist practices, and even some of the most remote villages will have a temple for people to pray at. Other religions which exist in smaller numbers include Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Animism and ancestor worship can also be found around the country, especially in the more distant, hill tribe regions. One pre-Buddhist tradition that survives in Myanmar is the worship of the '''''Nats''''', or traditional Burmese spirits, and you will see many spirit houses throughout the country dedicated to their worship. Following the spread of Theravada Buddhism, the worship of the Nats was incorporated into Burmese Buddhism, and they are today regarded as subordinates of the Buddha. ===People=== [[File:Burmese people 01.jpg|thumb|Boys in Yangon with thanaka paste on their faces]] The dominant ethnic group in Myanmar is known as the Bamar, from which the original English name of the country, Burma, was derived. Besides the Bamar, Myanmar is also home to many minority ethnic groups and nationalities which have their own distinct cultures and languages. In addition to the native ethnic minorities, Myanmar is also home to ethnic Chinese and Indians whose ancestors migrated to Myanmar during the colonial period, most visible in the cities of Yangon and Mandalay. Myanmar is divided into fourteen administrative divisions, seven regions and seven states; generally speaking, the regions are Bamar-dominated, while the states are dominated by the respective ethnic minorities. The government has been condemned by other nations for violence against the Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, which borders Bangladesh. The government does not recognise them as citizens of Myanmar, but instead claims they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, a narrative embraced by the vast majority of Burmese despite the Rohingya's presence in Rakhine going back generations. Forced to flee to Bangladesh in large numbers, where they are also regarded as foreigners, many have lost their lives trying to seek refuge and work in Malaysia. Generally speaking, most Myanmar people are incredibly friendly and polite, and will do their best to make you feel welcome in their country. ===Politics=== Myanmar, officially the '''Republic of the Union of Myanmar''' (ပြည်ထောင်​စု သမ္မတ မြန်မာ​နိုင်​ငံတော်), is a presidential republic, with the president, who is appointed by the legislature, serving as both head of state and ''de jure'' head of government. He and his cabinet form the executive branch. The legislature is composed of the bicameral ''Pyidaungsu Hluttaw'' (Assembly of the Union), consisting of an upper ''Amyotha Hluttaw'' (House of Nationalities), and a lower ''Pyithu Hluttaw'' (House of Representatives). While a majority of the members of the legislature are popularly elected by the people, a quarter the seats are reserved for appointees from the military. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won a majority of seats in the 2015 election. As she is constitutionally barred from the presidency (by virtue of having married a foreigner), she instead served as the ''de facto'' head of government in the role of State Counsellor. As of February 2021, Myanmar is ruled by a military dictatorship. === Climate === Myanmar is considered to have 3 seasons. The hot season is usually from Mar–Apr. Temperatures then cool off during the rainy season from May–Oct. The peak tourism season is the cool season from Nov–Feb. Temperatures can climb as high as 36°C in Yangon in the hot season while in the cool season, noontime temperatures are usually a more bearable 32°C, with night temperatures falling to around 19°C. Mandalay is slightly cooler in the cool season, with temperatures falling as low as 13°C, while temperatures in the hot season can go as high as 37°C. Generally, Lower Myanmar, the area around Yangon, receives more rainfall than the drier Upper Myanmar (around Mandalay). In the highlands such as [[Inle Lake]] and [[Pyin U Lwin]], winter temperatures can fall below 10°C at night, while daytime temperatures tend to be very pleasant. Even in the summer, temperatures rarely climb above 32°C. Near the Indian border in [[Kachin State]], there are permanently snow-capped mountains. === Read === [[File:Haridaung-Mrauk U-Aussicht-06-Pagoden im Dunst-gje.jpg|thumb|View of Mrauk U]] * ''From the Land of the Green Ghosts'' by Pascal Khoo Thwe. A Cambridge-educated writer gives a touching account of his growing up as a Paduang-Hilltribe-Guyand in the difficult political environment before becoming a rebel. ({{ISBN|0007116829}}) * ''The Glass Palace'' by Amitav Ghosh. A novel that spans a century, from British conquest to the modern day. A compelling account of how a family adapted to the changing times; provides much insight into Burmese culture. * ''The River of Lost Footsteps'' by Thant Myint-U. Easily the most accessible history of Myanmar available. Read it before you go and you will marvel at how the once great and rich cities (like Martaban, Syriam, and [[Mrauk U|Mrauk-U]]) have become the dingy and smoky villages of today. ({{ISBN|0374163421}}) * ''The Trouser People'' by Andrew Marshall. The author follows in the footsteps of Victorian explorer, Sir George Scott. This book looks at lost British heritage as well as the Burmese tragedies occurring in the present. ({{ISBN|0140294457}}) * ''Finding George Orwell in Burma'' by Emma Larkin. The pseudonymous author, a journalist, posed as a tourist to travel around Myanmar in the early 2000s, before the government opened up the country to the world. She documents a country trapped in the past, attempts to distinguish sympathetic storytellers from police informants, and retraces Orwell's life in Myanmar, who went on to give the world the vocabulary to criticise the repressive police state which the country had since become. ({{ISBN|1594200521}}) * ''Burma Chronicles'' by Guy Delisle. A whimsical and humorous graphic novel about a family who moves to Yangon on assignment with an NGO in the mid-2000s. The protagonist, a stay-at-home dad, adapts to life in Burma with his infant son while his wife works long hours. An enjoyable and light read, this work does not dwell on human rights under the dictatorship, but rather focusses on the day-to-day life of the protagonist and the characters he meets. ({{ISBN|9781897299500}}) === Listen === * [https://insightmyanmar.org/ ''Insight Myanmar''] used to be a podcast about religion and spirituality, but it pivoted to providing news and interviews with experts following the military coup of February 2021. * ''[https://www.myanmarmusings.com/ Myanmar Musings]'' is the podcast of the [https://myanmar.anu.edu.au/ Myanmar Research Centre] at the Australian National University, Canberra. While much more academic than ''Insight Myanmar'', it still features interviews with a variety of experts on a range of historical and present-day topics relating to research on Myanmar. * [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-happening-in-myanmar/id1777519120 ''What's Happening in Myanmar''] is a news podcast that is useful for keeping up with the ever-changing political and military situation on the ground in Myanmar. === Holidays === * 4 January: Independence Day * January: Kayin New Year Day - 1st waxing of Pyatho * 12 February: Union Day * March: Full Moon Day of Tabaung * 27 March: Armed Forces Day * April: Thingyan (Burmese New Year) — the most important festival in Myanmar, in which people splash water at each other. Also known as the Water Festival, and similar to Songkran in neighbouring Thailand * May: Full Moon Day of Kason * July: Full Moon Day of Waso * October: Full Moon Day of Thadingyut * 19 July: Martyrs Day * November: National Day - 10 st waning of the moon of Tazaungmon * 25 December: Christmas Day === Units of measure === {{See also|Metric and Imperial equivalents}} Since 2013, Myanmar has begun adopting the '''metric system''' (SI), which is now used for weather reports, petrol prices, and speed limits, and ''new'' road signs. However, much usage of '''imperial system''' and the traditional '''Burmese units of measurement''' persist. Old road signs may use miles and miles per hour, and government websites inconsistently convert Burmese units to metric or Imperial. ===Tourist information === * [https://tourism.gov.mm/ Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website == Talk == {{see also|Burmese phrasebook}} [[File:Vendeurs de plantes médicinales vers Kyaiktiyo Paya.jpg|thumb|Burmese signs at a market]] The official language of Myanmar is '''[[Burmese phrasebook|Burmese]]''' (မြန်မာစကား ''mien ma za ga'') (known by the government as Myanmar), a Sino-Tibetan language related to Chinese and hence tonal (word pitch matters) and analytic (most words are one syllable long). It is written using the Burmese script, based on the ancient Pali script. Bilingual signs (English and Burmese) are available in most tourist spots. Numbers often are also written in Burmese script. Much vocabulary is derived from another ancient languages of Pali (at the time of Buddha) and [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]]. There are also many other ethnic groups in Myanmar such as the Mon, Shan, Pa-O, Rohingya and many others who continue to speak their own languages. While Burmese serves as the lingua franca in government-controlled areas, it may not be spoken at all in some separatist-controlled areas. There is also a sizeable ethnic Chinese community who speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] and/or various Chinese dialects. In Yangon, most of the Chinese are descendants from migrants from Fujian and Guangdong, and hence speak mainly [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]] or Taishanese, while in Mandalay, the Chinese are mostly descendants of migrants from Yunnan, and mainly speak the Yunnan dialect of Mandarin. Some areas are also home to various ethnic Indian communities who continue to speak various Indian languages. Myanmar is a former British colony and many Burmese understand at least some rudimentary English. Most well-educated upper class Burmese speak English fluently, while any educated Burmese will know at least the basics. Hotel and airline staff, as well as people working in the tourism industry generally speak a good level of English. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Myanmar.png|450px|thumbnail|right|Visa policy of Myanmar {{legend|#ED1C24|Myanmar}} {{legend|#22B14C|Visa free & eVisa}} {{legend|#FF7F27|eVisa (Business & Tourism)}} {{legend|#FFB583|eVisa (Business)}} {{legend|#FFC90D|eVisa (Tourism)}} {{legend|#ABABAB|Visa required in advance}}]] The visa situation in Myanmar is changing quickly and this has caused confusion even among immigration staff, and many guides and official websites are out of date. Check Wikipedia for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Myanmar visa policy]. ====Visa-free==== Citizens of the following countries may visit Myanmar without a visa for tourism provided they enter '''by air''', and their stay does not exceed the following number of days: *14 days: [[Brunei]], [[Cambodia]], [[Laos]], [[Philippines]], [[Thailand]] *30 days: [[Russia]], [[Vietnam]] Citizens of [[Singapore]] may visit Myanmar without a visa for up to 30 days regardless of mode of entry. These visa exemptions are strictly not extendable. All other travelers are required to apply for a visa in advance. ====E-Visa==== [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ E-Visa] are available for visitors from many countries, including most Western countries for US$50/tourist and US$70/business travelers (as of Jan 2020) through the [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ Myanmar Immigration's web-site], which take 3 days to process. However, there is also an express tourist e-Visa service available on the governments website for US$56 (rather than the standard US$50) taking 24 hr (though sometimes just a few hours). Check the e-Visa website for details on which nationalities this is available for. The visa is valid for 28 day for stays beginning up to 90 days from the date of issue, and is single entry only. In order to apply, you will need to upload a passport-sized colour photo, and payment which is only accepted by credit card. Permitted entry points are: Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, Nay Pyi Taw International Airport, and the longtail boat crossing from Ranong, Thailand at [[Kawthaung]] Tourist visas are valid for 3 months. The visa is valid for a stay of up to four weeks (from date of entry), although you can overstay if you are willing to pay a US$3 a day fee upon departure. Employment is ''not'' allowed on a tourist visa, and working runs you the risk of being arrested and deported. Successful applicants will also be issued an "Arrival Form", which will be stapled into your passport and must be presented on arrival in Myanmar, along with your passport containing the visa sticker. ====Visa on arrival==== As of October 2019, [http://www.mip.gov.mm/on-arrival-visa/ visas on arrival] are available for tourist and business visitors of some nationalities at Yangon, Mandalay and Naypyidaw airports. You must bring two passport-sized colour photos, and a letter of invitation from the company sponsoring your visa (for business visas). There is still some confusion at airports about this because official resources are not being updated to match changes but most tourists are not experiencing difficult- if you experience any insist you are eligible for a visa and ask for a senior staff member. Note: In August 2022 a directive from Myanmar to airline staff immediately (and inexplicably) suspended the Tourist Visa on Arrival for all nationalities. This has not been updated on government websites. Check well in advance at the check-in counter what the status is, and consider playing it safe with an e-visa. ====Visa at an embassy or consulate==== You can apply for all kinds of visas in a Myanmar embassy or consulate in many capitals and large cities around the world. See specific details like contacts, hours, etc. there&mdash;especially for [[Bangkok#Embassies|Bangkok]] and [[Chiang Mai#Consulates|Chiang Mai]] in Thailand, [[Delhi#Cope|Delhi]] in India, [[Hong Kong#Consulates|Hong Kong]] in China, and [[Washington, D.C.#Embassies|Washington D.C.]] in the US. Generally the visa application requires a completed visa form (available from the Myanmar embassy), a completed arrival form (again, from the embassy), a photocopy of the photo page from your passport, two passport-sized photos, proof of your occupation, and the applicable fee. === By plane === Myanmar's main international airport is located at '''[[Yangon]]''', the largest city and main economic centre. There are regular scheduled flights from Yangon to many major Asian cities. For travellers from outside the region, the easiest way to get into Myanmar will be to catch a flight from either [[Singapore]] or [[Bangkok]], both of which have large overseas Burmese populations, and are served by several daily flights into Yangon. Myanmar also has a second international airport at '''[[Mandalay]]''', which is served by several flights to the neighbouring countries. For a current list of airlines and destinations, see [https://www.yangonairport.aero/index.php/en/ Airport of Yangon]. The two main international airlines based out of Yangon are flag carrier '''[http://flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airines]''' and privately owned '''[http://www.maiair.com/ Myanmar Airways International]'''. ===By land=== Myanmar borders five countries: China, India, Bangladesh, Thailand and Laos. Foreigners are free to travel overland from Thailand into the Burmese heartland provided their Burmese visa is in order. Entering Myanmar from the other land border crossings, though, is a different story. At the very least, you must apply for special permits in advance, and you may need to join a guided tour in order for the permit to be granted. ====Thailand==== Four border crossings exist between Myanmar and [[Thailand]] at [[Tachileik]]/[[Mae Sai]], [[Myawaddy]]/[[Mae Sot]], [[Htee Kee]]/[[Ban Phunamron]] and the [[Three Pagoda Pass]]. The former three are open to foreigners, and there are no restrictions on foreigners travelling into the Burmese heartland from Myawaddy or Htee Kee. From Tachileik, travel beyond Keng Tung is not possible overland unless you are on a guided tour with a special permit. No visa-on-arrival is available though, so ensure that your Thai (if required) and Burmese visas are in order. ====China==== Foreigners can enter Myanmar at [[Muse (Myanmar)|Muse]] via [[Ruili]] (in [[Yunnan]]), although a permit (as well as a visa) and a guide are needed. You will most likely need to join an organized tour. Crossing in the opposite direction is more difficult to arrange and details are uncertain; however, it's possible to fly from [[Mandalay]] to [[Kunming]], and there's even a Chinese consulate that issues visas in Mandalay. ====India==== A land border crossing exists between [[India]] and Myanmar at Moreh/[[Tamu]] and is open to tourists who have vehicles and who are on foot or who have tours. As of 2023, Myanmar eVisas are ''not'' valid for entry at this border, so you'll need to get a visa in advance. This border is in politically unstable territory and there have been protests and two bomb blasts in the Indian town of Moreh (Oct 2019) which briefly closed the border. Tourists are generally advised not to loiter in Moreh, especially late at night- and to stay in Tamu on the Myanmar side if possible. It is no longer required to have a permit to visit the Indian state of [[Manipur]] which borders Myanmar. ====Laos==== The Myanmar-Laos Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River is the sole official border crossing between Myanmar and Laos. The bridge connects [[Shan State]] in Myanmar with [[Luang Namtha|Luang Namtha Province]] in [[Laos]], in a ''very'' remote region for both countries, and information on when (or whether) the crossing is operating is hard to find. As eVisas are not accepted for entry at this crossing, you'll need to get a visa in advance. ====Bangladesh==== It is not feasible to cross the border between Myanmar and [[Bangladesh]] independently. No border crossings exist between the two nations, and the Myanmar army has planted [[landmines]] along the frontier to discourage smugglers. ===By boat=== Small wooden longtail boats shuttle between [[Ranong]], [[Thailand]] and [[Kawthaung]], Myanmar. There is no fixed schedule; you just negotiate directly with one of the boat operators, and they will leave once a price is agreed on. Be sure to bargain hard or you might get ripped off. Boat operators may try you hustle you onto their boat before you find the immigration building to get stamped out; be firm and insist on going through immigration, or you will be considered to have left the country illegally. You will need to pay a US$10 or 500 Thai baht "stamping fee" to Myanmar immigration when entering or leaving via this checkpoint. If choosing to pay by U.S. dollars, be sure your bills are in pristine condition; even slight creases will cause your bills to be rejected. == Get around == Myanmar's infrastructure is in poor shape. Travel to certain regions is prohibited; for others, special permits must be obtained, and a guide/interpreter/minder may be mandatory - although whether these "guides" accompany you to look after you, or to keep you from going to places the government doesn't want you to see, is a question best discussed elsewhere. However, travel between the main tourist sites, namely Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon, is fairly straightforward. ===Restricted areas=== Much of Myanmar is closed to foreign travellers, and many land routes to far-flung areas are also closed (for example, to [[Mrauk U]], [[Kalewa]], [[Putao]], [[Kengtung]]). Due to longstanding ethnic conflicts, many ethnic minority areas are controlled by armed separatist groups and remain outside the control of the central government. Thus, while tourists can travel freely in the Bamar-majority Burmese heartland, travel tends to be restricted or circumscribed in ethnic minority areas. In theory, any tourist can apply for a permit to visit any restricted area or to travel on any restricted land route. In practice, it is unlikely that any such permit will be issued in a reasonable amount of time, or at all. Permit requests can be made locally in some cases (for example, requests for the land route to [[Kalewa]] can be made in [[Shwebo]]) but, in most cases, the request has to be made in [[Yangon]]. Requests to visit restricted areas must be made at the [http://myanmartravelsandtours.com/ MTT (Myanmar Travel and Tours)] office in Yangon (Number 77–91, Sule Pagoda Rd, Yangon). Applications for local permits can often be made at a local MTT office or at a police station. Local permits are available only for the following places & routes: *[[File:Pa-O women at restaurant stall, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Pa-O women at a restaurant stall]][[Kengtung]] - [[Tachilek]]. This used to be straightforward but the availability is now uncertain. *[[Mrauk U]] Chin/Zomi village tours. Easily available in Mrauk U, but must visit with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Myitkyina]] - [[Indawgyi Lake]]. Easily available in Myitkyina but must travel with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Shwebo]] - [[Kalewa]]. A permit is necessary if going by road. It is uncertain whether one is required if going by boat. *[[Pa-O Self-Administered Zone]] in [[Shan State]] (including the Kakku Pagodas). Available in [[Taunggyi]], but must be accompanied by a local Pa-O guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this. All other permits must be obtained in Yangon. Permits for some places, such as Putao, are obtainable but need to be applied for well in advance Myanmar is not [[North Korea]], and you are free to walk around, go to shops and interact with the locals. However, with many of the more far flung places, and places restricted to foreigners, it is better to arrange your internal visa in advance. Companies that can help with internal visas: *[http://www.mrmyanmartravel.com Mr Myanmar Travel] *[http://www.remoteasia.com Remote Asia Travel] *[http://www.travelmyanmar.com Travel Myanmar] ===By plane=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Sample fares between important destinations (through local tourist agency)''' ! From !! To !! Approximate fare |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || US$95 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || US$85 |- | [[Bagan]] || [[Heho]] || US$65 |- | [[Heho]] || [[Yangon]] || US$85 |} The poor state of Myanmar's roads and railways make flying by far the least uncomfortable option when travelling long distances. Flag carrier '''[https://www.flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airlines]''' operates a network of domestic flights to many destinations across Myanmar from its hub in Yangon International Airport. Long known for its poor safety record, it has improved dramatically with the purchase of newer aircraft, and these days compares favourably with many of the private airlines in terms of both service and safety. There are also several private airlines operating domestic flights from Yangon. The private airline companies are usually on time, and even depart early (10-20 min), so be on time and reconfirm your flight and flight time 1–2 days before departure. Sometimes the itinerary might be altered some days before departure (meaning that you will still fly to your final destination on the scheduled time, but with an added or removed in between stop, e.g., Yangon-Bagan becomes Yangon-Mandalay-Bagan). This usually only affects your arrival time. En route stops have only 10-20 min ground time, and if it is not your final destination, you can stay inside the plane during the stop. All domestic flight from Yangon depart from Terminal 3, while international flights depart from Terminals 1 & 2. When taking a taxi from downtown to the airport, mention to the driver that you are on a domestic flight so you'll not end up in the wrong terminal. ===By train=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Train travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Ordinary || Upper || Sleeper |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 16 hr || 4,600&nbsp;kyat || 9,300&nbsp;kyat || 13,000&nbsp;kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 6 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,500&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 4 hr || 550&nbsp;kyat || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 7 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,750&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Lashio]] || 16 hr || 1,900&nbsp;kyat || 4,400&nbsp;kyat || None |} Myanmar has an extensive rail network, a relic of British rule. Unfortunately, there has been little maintenance or growth since the British left. Trains are slow, noisy, uncomfortable, and prone to delays. Electrical blackouts are becoming rare but nonetheless never assume that air conditioners, fans or the electrical supply itself will be working throughout the whole journey. Most trains have upper class and ordinary class. Ordinary class has wide open windows, benches and can be packed with locals transporting their goods. Upper class has upholstered chairs, fans and is less crowded. Be careful putting your head out of the window as it is likely to be hit by a branch. Vegetation grows so close to the tracks that you can reach out and touch it. Tickets are cheap and tourists pay the same price as locals, but tourists cannot buy tickets on the train. At smaller stations, you may have to seek the stationmaster or use an interpreter to buy a ticket. Your passport is required when purchasing. [[File:Gokteik Viaduct, Southbound.jpg|thumb|The famous Gokteik Viaduct dates from 1899]] A journey on a train is a great way to see the country and meet people. The rail journey from [[Mandalay]], up hairpin bends to [[Pyin U Lwin]], and then across the mountains and the famous bridge at Gokteik, is one of the great railway journeys of the world. Trains in lower Mandalay, Yangon-Pathein and Yangon-Mawlymaing, are little communities of their own with hawkers selling everything imaginable. Sleepers are available on many overnight express trains, although in the high season you may want to reserve a few days in advance. Tickets go on sale three days in advance. At some stations there is a separate counter for advance bookings, or even a separate building (e.g., in Yangon). Food service is available on the express in both directions between Yangon and Mandalay. Except for the new bridge and rail line that connects [[Mawlamyine]] to points on the west side of the Salween River, the rail network is exactly the way it was in British times. The most-used line is the 325km line from Yangon to Mandalay with several trains a day. It is the only double line in Myanmar, and also the only one that is competitive in time with buses. The fastest trains take 15 hr for the 385km run, an effective rate of 25km/hour. A second line connects Yangon with Pyay, 9 hr for the 175&nbsp;km journey, with a branch heading off into the delta region town of Pathein. These tracks, the earliest constructed, are in poor shape. With the construction of the bridge across the Salween, it is now possible to go by train from Yangon to Mawlamyine, 8 hr for the 200km journey, and on to Ye and Dawei. From Mandalay, trains continue on to Myitkyina in Kachin State, 350km in 24 hr, and to Lashio. There are also rail connections between Yangon-Bagan and Mandalay-Bagan, but bus or ferry are better alternatives: the 175km from Mandalay to Bagan takes 10 hours. There is railway service between Yangon-Bagan. 16 hr, first class US$30, upper class US$40, sleeper US$50. (check new prices) Train tickets cannot be paid in dollars any more, and the government has abandoned the former dual-pricing structure that saw tourists pay inflated prices. === By boat === There is also a large river ferry network. Both are to a large extent run by the government, although there are now some private ferry services. The trip from Mandalay to Bagan takes the better part of a day, from Bagan to Yangon is several days. === By bus === {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ ''' Bus travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 11 hr || 10,400 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || 10 hr || 12,000 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 4 hr || 6,000 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 2 hr || 1,500 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 5.5 hr || 4,500 |} Buses of all types ply the roads of Myanmar. Luxury (relatively speaking) buses do the Mandalay-Yangon run while lesser vehicles can get travellers to other places. Fares are reasonable and in kyat and buses are faster than the trains. Many long-distance buses assign seats, so it is best to book seats at least a day in advance. Because the roads are bad, avoid the rear of the bus and try to sit as far up front as you can. Long-distance buses also have an extra jump seat that blocks the aisle and, because it is not well secured to the chassis, can be uncomfortable (which also means that there is no such thing as a side seat where taller people can stretch their legs). A window near the front of the bus is always the best option. Even budget travellers will find themselves buying more tickets via their hotel or an agency rather than going to the bus company to buy it directly. Their offices are often located far from any tourist place and the cost of going there and back will most likely exceed the commission your hotel will get for selling you the ticket. Shop around and compare prices before buying your ticket as some vendors include a free pick-up from your hotel. A bus ticket scam seems to be popular in Yangon. While many make a stopover in Bago, they are told at their guesthouse or at the bus station it's not possible to buy tickets there in the direction to Mandalay. In a country where everything might be possible when it comes to transport, some people fall for this. Actually, this is not the case and tracking back to Yangon for a bus ticket up north is not necessary at all. Bago has a bus terminal with several bus offices. Buying your ticket at Bago might be slightly cheaper (depending upon your bargaining skills) and gives you more freedom for the rest of your journey. The adjoining table summarises travel times and approximate fares between important tourist destinations in Myanmar. Most bus fares have gone up with the fuel price rises, so the fares listed are rough estimates. === By pick-up === Old pick-up trucks run everywhere in Myanmar, cheaply ferrying men, women, children, and monks from one place to another. The rear of the truck is converted into a canvas-covered sitting area with three benches, one on each side and one running along the centre of the truck (some smaller trucks have only two rows), and the running board is lowered and fixed into place providing room for six or more people to stand on (holding on to the truck frame). Pick-ups are ubiquitous in Myanmar and every town has a central point somewhere from where they depart to places both near and far. Tourists who go off the beaten track will find them indispensable because often the only alternative is an expensive taxi or private car. The basics of pickups are fairly straightforward, wait till it is reasonably full before heading out. On well-travelled routes (Mandalay-Pyin U Lwin, for example), they fill up quickly and the journey is quick. On less well-travelled routes ([[Bhamo]]-[[Katha]], for example), passengers arrive (early, usually around 06:00), mark their place, and then hang around drinking tea and chatting until the truck fills up. When the pick-up does get moving, it may linger or go out of its way in the hope of picking up more passengers. The inside of a pick-up can be hot and uncomfortable. Passengers, packed in like sardines, face away from the windows (which are tiny) and into the truck. Standing on the running board can be tiring and tough on the arms. The window side seat next to the driver is very comfortable and well-worth the little extra that you have to pay, so it is best to go early and reserve that seat. === By car === [[File:20160729 traffic in Mandalay 5761.jpg|thumb|Busy street in Mandalay]] You can hire a private car and driver at reasonable rates to tour independently. The licensed guides at Shwedagon Paya in Yangon can arrange to have a driver with a car meet you at your hotel. Another way is to arrange for a car through a travel agency, though it can be quite expensive. You can "test" the driver and the car by driving around the city for 10 or 15 minutes. If you are satisfied, a departure date and time and per diem rates (inclusive of petrol) can be negotiated. Some guides are willing to travel with you to serve as interpreters. Traffic drives on the '''right''' in Myanmar, but confusingly, Myanmar has a mixture of left- and right-hand-drive cars, with the majority of vehicles being right-hand-drive as a result of being second-hand imports from Japan or Thailand. Road travel to tourist destinations is generally safe, although some roads may be rough. Highways are often 2-lane, and cars often pass one another recklessly. That being said, driving habits are not quite as aggressive as say, [[Vietnam]]. Allow two days to drive from Yangon to Bagan in fair weather. Pyay is a good stopover point. Allow a day to drive from Bagan to Inle Lake. In cities, it is considered illegal to cross an amber light without stopping. Despite having crossed 3/4 of the way, you will be required to stop in the middle of the road and make your way back in reverse! Accidents and fatalities are common. Night-time road travel is not recommended, and medical facilities are limited in rural areas. At government hospitals, bribes may be required for services. Make sure needles are new or carry your own. HIV is a major problem in Myanmar. ===By taxi=== All taxis (and by extension all vehicles for transport of people and goods) have red/white licence plates, while private vehicles have a black/white licence plate. Tourist agency-owned cars have a blue/white licence plate. ===By ride-hailing=== The main ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/mm/en/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former South-east Asian operations, including that of Myanmar. Uber's short-lived venture into Myanmar occurred just one year prior to its takeover by Grab. In common with Grab's operations elsewhere in Southeast Asia, cash is not required as you can use the Grab app to pay with your card, though cash remains readily accepted. === By motorbike === In Yangon, riding motorcycles is illegal. Mandalay's streets, on the other hand, are filled with them. === By bicycle === In many places you can easily rent a bicycle for about 1,500 kyat per day to move around in your own pace. Around Inle Lake, cycling is a relaxing way to get to the next village or lake viewpoint. Mandalay is laid out on a grid which makes it very easy to navigate while cycling. Tourists used to pedal bicycles around the sights of Bagan, across difficult sandy paths under the hot sun, however electric bicycles are now the norm. At around ten times the price of a conventional bicycle, they are well worth the money. === On foot === Cars and pedestrians may not follow the established rules, and crossing the road can be difficult. Drivers will almost never yield to pedestrians, even on striped pedestrian crossings. ==See== [[File:InleRowing.jpg|300px|thumb|Leg rowing, Inle Lake]] Myanmar has not been a popular destination in Southeast Asia as visitors have been largely deterred by the country's volatile politics and restrictions placed on travel. But the political and travel situation has been improving notably since 2015. The country is a true, unspoiled treasure trove, and should capture the imagination of anyone interested in culture and history. Walking around [[Yangon]] brings you back to the time of 19th-century British colonial rule. Sparkling-clean parks and temples stand side by side decayed colonial-style buildings and deep potholes. Its cultural and religious attractions, like the '''Shwedagon Pagoda''', add to the city's feel of exoticism, as do the smiles of the locals. Every street corner brings something new—and a short ferry over the river even gives you a glimpse of rural life in the country. Cities of cultural and historical interest close to Yangon are [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] with its Buddhist sights, the delta town of [[Twante]] known for its pottery, and the pilgrimage site of [[Kyaiktiyo]] with its gold-gilded rock balancing precariously over a cliff. It's definitely worth it to further explore the Bamar heartland. Unfortunately some outer fringes of the country are off-limits to foreigners, but it's always worth checking the latest situation with people on the ground as things move so fast that the Internet rarely if ever has correct information. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703742020).jpg|thumb|Pyin U Lwin]] The former city of [[Bagan]] is a gem, and gives a glimpse of what life in the 11th and 12th centuries here must have been like. Marco Polo described it as the "gilded city alive with tinkling bells and the swishing sounds of monks' robes". It is the largest and densest concentration of Buddhist temples, pagodas, stupas and ruins in the world. [[Mrauk U]] is a sleepy village today but its crumbling pagodas and temples remind of the early modern period, when it was the capital city of an empire involved in extensive maritime trade with Portuguese, Dutch, French and Arab traders. Within a daytrip from [[Mandalay]] is [[Inwa]], another former capital where ruins remain to remind visitors of its former glory. Also don't miss [[Pyin U Lwin]], a former British hill station with somewhat cooler temperatures. The country has its fair share of '''natural attractions'''. [[Inle Lake]] is popular with backpackers, and it is one of the few places that is starting to feel like a tourist trap. Still, a trip to Myanmar is not complete without a boat trip on the lake. It has a unique vibe with tribes living in stilt houses and paddling their traditional wooden boats with one leg. The country's long southwestern coastline also has a few '''beaches''', such as [[Chaung Tha]] and [[Ngapali]]. If you visit outside of the traditional holiday season, you might just have a beautiful white sand beach for yourself. Myanmar is a country inhabited with dozens of ethnic groups, but sites from the major '''independent Burmese kingdoms''' dating from the 9th century can be seen in sections of the country. ==Do== [[File:Chinlone Burma.jpg|thumb|Burmese men playing chinlone]] Myanmar is an excellent country for '''trekking'''. [[Kalaw]] is a centre for trekking, and has miles and miles of trails through mountains and hill tribe villages. [[Kengtung]] is also known for its hiking paths to hill tribe villages, while [[Hsipaw]] has some great treks to waterfalls. '''Birdwatching''' can be done around [[Inle Lake]]. Myanmar's national sport is '''chinlone''', played with a small rattan ball. The objective of the game is to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible without using one's arms or hands, and to do it as beautifully as possible. Spectacular '''scuba diving''' and unspoiled beaches abound in the Mergui Archipelago in [[southeastern Myanmar]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Myanmar kyat (official rates) | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;kyat | date=January 2025 | USD=2,100 | EUR=2,500 | GBP=2,800 | CNY=300 | INR=25 | THB=650 | SGD=1,530 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mmk-burmese-kyat xe.com]}} {{infobox|Currency Games |Myanmar is still predominantly a cash economy. However, ATMs are widespread. In a misguided attempt to fight rampant black marketeering, the Myanmar government has a habit of ''declaring notes to be worthless'': this happened first in 1964. In 1985, the 20, 50, and 100 kyat notes were withdrawn again and replaced with new kyat notes in the unusual denominations of 25, 35, and 75, possibly chosen because of dictator general Ne Win's predilection for numerology; the 75-kyat note was introduced on his 75th birthday. In 1987, the government demonetized the 25, 35, and 75 kyat notes with no prior warning, rendering some 75% of the country's currency worthless. A new series of 15, 45, and 90-kyat notes was issued, incorporating Ne Win's favourite number 9. The resulting economic disturbances led to serious riots and eventually the 1989 coup by General Saw Maung. The post-coup notes come in more normal denominations from 1–1,000 kyat, and this time the old ones remain legal tender, so far.}} Myanmar's currency is the '''kyat''', pronounced "chat". Prices may be shown locally using the abbreviation of '''K''' (singular or plural) or '''Ks''' (plural) either before or after the amount and depending very much on who is doing the sign writing. The ISO abbreviation is '''MMK'''. Wikivoyage articles will use ''kyat'' to denote the currency. ''Pya'' are coins, and are rarely seen since their value has become increasingly insignificant with even the largest 50 pya coin worth less than US$0.001. Banknotes of Myanmar are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 kyats. You may also come across 20, 10, 5, and 1 ''kyat'' and 50 ''pya'' banknotes. They are valid but rarely found and best held onto as souvenirs. Older banknotes in strange denominations are sold to tourists and, while typically genuine, are rarely if ever valuable. The notes of 50 kyat, 100 kyat, 200 kyat, and 500 kyat are usually in a horrible condition, but are generally accepted when making small purchases. The 1,000 kyat notes are slightly better. 5,000 and 10,000 kyat notes always appear new after exchanging foreign currencies. When exchanging money, check that the banknotes you receive are in a generally good condition. If the exchange gives you kyat notes in horrible condition, you can ask them to exchange them for notes in better condition. Dispose of remaining kyat before leaving. Outside of Myanmar, kyat is almost worthless but do make nice souvenirs. Kyat cannot be legally exchanged abroad, though some money changers in places with large overseas Burmese populations such as [[Singapore]] will exchange anyway, but at terrible rates. Kyat can be exchanged on departure from Yangon Airport at decent rates. ====US dollars==== {{infobox|Is it safe?|So, you're travelling around carrying hundreds, if not thousands, of U.S. dollars stuffed into your pockets in a country where most people subsist on a few dollars a day. Everyone around you knows that if they could get their hands on the money in your pockets, they will be rich for life. What, you may ask, are the odds that someone will try to relieve you of your money? The answer: almost nil. There have been very few instances of a tourist being mugged and only the rare cases of pilfering. Myanmar is an extremely safe country for travellers. Some say it is because of the nature of the people. Others say it is because the punishment for robbing from a foreigner is draconian, whilst others say it is because of Buddhism, which prohibits people from taking what is not given.}} Foreigners are no longer required to pay in U.S. dollars for hotels, tourist attractions, rail and air tickets, ferry travel and for bus tickets. As of 2015, foreign currency instability and the weakening kyat means that many venues will state prices in U.S. dollars, even though it is illegal to do so. Expat restaurants still often quote in U.S. dollars despite actions from the Central Bank prohibiting excess dollar usage. It is illegal for a Myanmar citizen to accept (or hold) U.S. dollars without a licence, but this law is mostly ignored and U.S. dollars are generally accepted. Never insist, though, because it may be dangerous for the receiver. Bring very clean, unfolded U.S. dollars (or they will not be accepted by hotels, restaurants and money changers). Even small imperfections can be cause to reject a U.S. banknote. Keep all U.S. dollars in impeccable condition, and do not fold them. If you do end up with a few, try using them for purchases rather than exchange, or try to exchange them in a few different places. ====ATMs==== There are plenty of ATMs all across the country accepting international Visa and MasterCard. The bigger and more touristic the place the more ATMs it has. Smaller tourist destinations also have ATMs (Bagu, Hpa-An, etc.), but not so many. Make sure to carry a buffer outside of major tourist hotspots. If an ATM does not work, try the next one. Usual withdrawal limit is 300,000 kyat with a processing fee of 5,000 kyat. In case you run out of money, ask your taxi driver to drive you to the CB Bank ATM. '''Note''': Your bank may refuse to process ATM transactions with some/all banks in Myanmar, even if the ATM accepts Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank prior to entering the country. ====Credit cards==== Upmarket tourist places (hotels, agencies, restaurants) are accepting credit cards (and will surcharge accordingly). So you can even pay with mastercard in a store in the middle of Inle Lake for purchases value more than US$100. But nonetheless paper money is the only way to pay in most places. Beside the ATMs, there are places (e.g. hotels in Yangon) where cash can be obtained with a credit card (''cash advance''), but the rates are extremely uncompetitive (with premiums certainly no lower than around 7%, and with quotes of 30% and more frequently reported). Also, they may need to see your passport to process the transaction. For US citizens, it is also possible to receive funds from friends or relatives in an emergencies through the US Embassy. ====Money exchange==== The foreign currency of choice in Myanmar is the US dollar, though you can readily also exchange euros and Singapore dollars in Yangon and Mandalay, but perhaps not beyond. Other options are the Chinese Yuan and Thai Baht. The best rates are in Yangon and Mandalay. Major foreign currencies need to be in good condition—other currencies like rupees and baht are often accepted even if worn out. The military junta re-imposed currency controls in 2021, again leading to a yawning gap between the official rate (fixed at 2100 kyat/dollar) and the black market rate, which ranged from 3,400 to 5,600/dollar in 2024. Banks and money changers only sell kyat at the official rate. Exchanging on the '''black market is illegal''': sellers risking jail time and the junta periodically cracks down. Especially on holidays and Sundays, all your necessary money should be changed at the airport as banks in town are closed. Money changers offer significantly lower rates (5-10% lower) for changing US dollars and euros. The most hassle-free option is to change all your required money at the airport, depending on the rate to change it back. Look around different banks for the best exchange rate. Be sure to bring a mix of foreign denominations when visiting Myanmar because money changers will sometimes not give change and smaller notes (in good condition) are useful for some entry fees and transport. Even though, larger bills give the best exchange rates at banks. Ensure that foreign notes are: * Unmarked – No stamps, anti-counterfeit pen, ink or any other mark on them at all. Pencil can be removed with a good eraser, but any permanent marks will greatly decrease a note's value and ability to be exchanged. * Fresh, crisp and as close to brand new as possible – Moneychangers have been known to reject notes just for being creased and/or lightly worn. * Undamaged – No tears, missing bits and pieces, holes, repairs or anything of that sort. * Preferably of the new design, with the larger portrait, and the multiple-colour prints. Although, old-style US$1 are still commonly traded. * For US$100 bills, have no serial numbers starting "CB". This is because they are associated with a counterfeit "superbill" which was in circulation some time ago. '''Scams''': * There are a number of tricks and scams running around Myanmar trapping tourists who are carrying US dollars. Sometimes, guesthouses or traders will try and pass you damaged or nonexchangeable bills in change. Always inspect all notes when making a purchase and request that the vendor swap any notes you think you will have trouble using down the track—this is perfectly acceptable behaviour for both vendors and customers, so don't be shy. * Some money changers will also attempt sleight of hand tricks to either swap your good banknotes for damaged, or lower denomination notes. Other reports suggest that the kyats may be counted and then somehow, some disappear from the table during the transaction. For example, after going through an elaborate counting process for piles of ten 1,000 kyat notes, some money changers will pull some notes out as they count the piles of ten. * When changing money, be sure that, after any money is counted, it is not touched by anyone until the deal is sealed. Also do not allow your dollars or major foreign currencies to be removed from your sight until all is agreed; in fact, it is not even necessary to pull out your US dollars until your are paying for the kyats you received. It sounds extreme, but ending up in a country where you cannot access whatever savings you have, and having a good portion of your budget rendered useless (until you get to more relaxed changers in Bangkok) can really put a dampener on your plans. ====Travellers cheques==== Travellers cheques are '''not accepted''' in Myanmar. The only exception might be some especially shady money changer, but be prepared to pay an astronomical commission (30% is not uncommon). ===Shopping=== When visiting tourist attractions, you will likely be swarmed by local hawkers, many of them children, trying to sell you souvenirs. Be sure to [[Bargaining|bargain]] hard should you decide to buy from them. Owing to decades of repressive military rule, a great many service and travel-oriented companies have strong links to the military. These are vital ways for the military to earn money, particularly foreign currency. If you wish to avoid spending money at military-owned or military-associated businesses, download the [https://waywaynay.com/ Way Way Nay Boycott app]. ====Tipping==== Tipping is generally not practised by the Burmese themselves. However, given widespread poverty in the country, tips are certainly appreciated if you have been provided with exemplary service. Tips that are charged to a credit card almost never make it to the service staff, so if you wish to tip, make sure you hand it over in cash to the person who served you. ====Costs==== Despite being less developed, Myanmar is expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or Vietnam. This is particularly true of hotel prices in the main tourists areas, as demand far outstrips supply. Similarly, the lack of competition from budget airlines has also made domestic flights rather expensive. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703766279).jpg|thumb|Night market in Pyin U Lwin]] It's not possible to be comfortable on less than US$25/day (May 2013). Foreigners will likely be charged fees, including video camera, camera, entrance, parking and zone fees. Most managed tourist site charge for carrying cameras of any sort into the area. Double rooms with private bathroom are nearly always more than US$20, in Yangon a double room without bathroom costs US$20. Dorm beds are around US$10 (or US$8 if you accept to lose a lot of value) (Sep 2015). While you cannot save on accommodation, you can save on food. Street food can get as low as US$0.30 for 2 small curries with 2 Indian breads, US$1 for a normal (vegetarian) dish. Even in touristy places like Bagan dishes cost under US$1 (vegetarian) and US$2 (meat). A draught Myanmar beer (5%) is around 600 kyat, a bottle of Myanmar beer (650 ml) is around 1,700 kyat, a bottle of Mandalay beer (6.5%, 650 ml) around 1,200 kyat. ====What to buy==== * '''Antiques''' – Purchasing antiquities and antiques in Myanmar is at best a legal grey area with the 2015 passage of the new Antiquities Law, and often illegal for any item over 100 years old. Penalties include prison and fines. It is recommended to avoid purchasing antiques as a tourist, unless you're willing to get an export permit from the Ministry of Culture on your way out and you have enough knowledge to avoid the fakes. Replicas and fakes are rife in Bogyoke market and other anitque stores frequented by tourists. It is against the law to export religious antiques (manuscripts, Buddhas, etc.) * '''Art''' – The Myanmar Art market has exploded, with local artists' works going for good values in Yangon and Mandalay. Visit the numerous galleries in Yangon to get a feel for available works. Art is often related to Buddhism and the difficult socio-political situation, as well as more traditional Victorian-influenced subjects like markets, old women smoking cigars, tribal members, and monks. There is a lot of cheap/mass-painted and derivative works at Bogyoke Market. * '''[[Gemstones]]''' – Myanmar is best known as for its [[jade]] and [[rubies]] (the granting of a license to the French over the ruby mines in [[Mogok]] was one of the causes leading to the Third Burmese War), and also produces some really fine [[sapphires]]. These can be obtained at a fraction of what it would cost in the West. There are a lot of fakes for sale amid the genuine stuff and, unless you know your gems, buy from an official government store or risk being cheated. Bogoyoke Aung San Market and the Myanmar Gems Museum in [[Yangon]] has many licensed shops and is generally a safe place for the purchase of these stones. The jade market in [[Mandalay]] is also worth a visit, where most of the jade is brought from the mines to be sold to merchants, and you can observe merchants haggling over the prices of both raw jade and various jade items in all stages of the production process. You can also purchase some jade trinkets yourself, but be prepared to haggle, and make sure you do your homework before buying or you risk getting ripped off. * '''Lacquerware''' – A popular purchase, which is made into bowls, cups, vases, tables and various items, and is available almost anywhere. The traditional centre of lacquerware production is [[Bagan]] in [[Central Myanmar]], and most tours include a stop at one of the local lacquerware factories where you can purchase one of these. Beware of fraudulent lacquer ware, though, which is poorly made, but looks authentic. As a guide, the stiffer the lacquer, the poorer the quality; the more you can bend and twist it, the finer the quality. * '''Tapestries''' – Known as ''kalaga'', or ''shwe chi doe''. There is a long tradition of weaving tapestries in Burma. These are decorated with gold and silver thread and sequins and usually depict tales from the Buddhist scriptures (the ''jatakas'') or other non-secular objects from Burmese Buddhism (mythical animals, the ''hintha'', and the ''kalong'' are also popular subjects). The tapestry tradition is dying out but many are made for tourists and are available in Mandalay and Yangon. Burmese tapestries don't last long, so be warned if someone tries to sell you an antique ''shwe chi doe''! * '''Textiles''' – Textiles in Myanmar are stunning. Each region and each ethnic group has its own style. Chin fabrics are particularly stunning. They are handwoven in intricate geometric patterns, often in deep reds and mossy greens and white. They can be quite pricey, perhaps US$20 for the cloth to make a longyi (sarong). ==Eat== [[File:Outdoor café, Yangon, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Outdoor café in Yangon]] Burmese food is influenced by that of India and China, yet unique. Apart from Burmese food, other ethnic traditional foods such as Shan food, Rakhine food, and Myeik food are also distinct. Rice is at the core of Burmese food, and good vegetarian food is widely available. Burmese food is often extremely pungent. Similar to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, '''fish sauce''' (ငံပြာရည် ''ngan bya yay'') is a very popular condiment in Myanmar, and is used to flavour many dishes. Food is inexpensive at most restaurants (priced at 500–3,000 kyat per item at most local restaurants, but can go as high as 8,000 kyat at posh restaurants). There are many up-market restaurants in Yangon and Mandalay. The majority of low-to-mid-priced restaurants use a cheap blend of palm oil for cooking. This oil may be unhealthy, and common roadside restaurants should be avoided if you are at the slightest risk for hypertension, heart disease, or other fat- or cholesterol-related conditions. Higher class restaurants may use peanut oil instead. Specific dishes include: [[File:Chapati and mutton curry.JPG|thumb|Chapati and mutton curry]] * '''Curry''' &ndash; Burmese people have a very different definition of curry than other countries. It is very spicy compared to Indian and Thai options, and although you may find it served at room temperature in cheaper restaurants, in a typical Burmese home all curry dishes are served hot. Burmese curry does not contain coconut milk, unlike its other SE Asian counterparts, and has a large quantity of onion or tomato depending on region and cook's preference. Myanmar is the highest per-capita consumer of onions in the world. Quite often Burmese curries are cooked with lots of oil, much more than other regional curries. * '''Samosa thoke''' (samosa salad) &ndash; A popular street dish of chickpeas, potatoes, tomato, cabbage, mint and a smashed samosa. * '''Mohinga''' (pronounced ''mo-HIN-ga'') &ndash; A dish of rice vermicelli with fish chowder, usually accompanied by coriander and chili powder. Its taste can range from sweet to spicy, and is usually eaten at breakfast. It is considered by many to be the national dish, and is widely available throughout the country, albeit in different styles in different regions. * '''Mote lin-mayar''' (Couples snacks) &ndash; Small tiny pancakes with chives, chickpeas or quail eggs. * '''Sticky rice''' &ndash; Served plain or with turmeric or black rice * '''Nan Gyi Thoke''' (pronounced ''nan gyi thou'') &ndash; A special dish of rice noodle salad with chicken sauce. It is mostly eaten in mid-Myanmar. * '''Onnokauswe''' (pronounced ''oun-NO-kao-sui'') &ndash; A dish of thicker noodles in a thick soup of coconut milk with chicken. It is served with a variety of condiments accompanying it, ranging from fried fruit fritters to solidified duck blood. "Khao soi"("noodle" in Shan), often found on the streets of Chiang Mai, is derived from this Burmese counterpart. It is also comparable to the spicier laksa often found in peninsular SE countries like Malaysia and Singapore. * '''Shan food''' &ndash; The Shan are an ethnic group who inhabit Shan State around Inle lake, near the Thai border. Their food is marvelous. It can be found in Yangon easily. :* '''Shan tofu''' &ndash; Made with mung beans instead of soya beans these yellow blocks are served fried or in a cold noodle salad. :* '''Laphet thote''' (pronounced ''la-peh THOU'') &ndash; A salad of fermented tea leaves and a variety of fried nuts. It is commonly mixed with sliced lettuce, and is eaten with rice. * '''Chinese food''' &ndash; Available in most cities and usually authentic, if plain. * '''Kachin food''' &ndash; Mainly available in Kachin State, though a number of Kachin restaurants can be found in Yangon and Mandalay. Kachin food is less oily and uses less MSG than Burmese food, and you may find it a good alternative if Burmese curries are not to your liking. == Drink == '''Tap water''' in Myanmar is not safe to drink, however factory-made ice in restaurants and other shops is OK. '''Bottled water''' is readily available. You can also safely drink from the many clay jars dotted around the country, or find safe drinking water in temples. Just look for the large steel tanks with cups tied to the spigots. Water in the clay jars is filtered and many Myanmar people use them. Owners of the jars fill them up with water as a way to make merit. Similar to Chinese tea, ''Yenwejan'' is usually provided free at restaurant tables. While not flavourful, it is boiled water, and so safe to drink (do not drink plain water - even in restaurants - unless it is bottled water). Dried tea leaves similar to Laphet thote's tea leaves (except these are wet) are added to the boiled water to give ''Yenwejan''. Be sure to order it with ''Laphet thote'' (customary/good combination). '''Milk tea''' (လက်ဖက်ရည် ''La-Phet-Yay'') is also popular in Myanmar and widely available in the local markets and teahouses but beware: the Burmese like their milk teas very, ''very'' sweet. '''Alcohol''' is frowned upon by conservative Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, but consumed widely, mostly among men. Myanmar Beer is most popular in the country. Other variants, including Mandalay Beer exist. However, many of such companies are government-owned and/or have links to the drug trade. '''Toddy juice''' (''ta-YEI'') is popular in central Myanmar, and is made from fermented palm sugar. An alcoholic drink popular in the Shan State is '''Shwe le maw''', and is reportedly very strong. It is also possible to buy full strength Beer Chang imported from Thailand; exports to most countries are not nearly as strong. Beware of alcoholic drinks served in the far northern states. The locals refer to it as '''alcohol which does not burn''' when lit, and it is widely suspected to be an opiate concoction rather than a fermented beverage. There are a lot of nightclubs, including those attached to the five star hotels (e.g. Grand Plaza), and also local entertainment centres (e.g. JJs, Asia plaza). === Teahouses === [[File:Myanmar Tea House Food.jpg|thumb|Tea and snacks at a tea house]] Teahouses are important places of social gathering and popular throughout the country. They look like restaurants but if you watch closely you will notice that people are drinking a lot of Chinese tea (free), light brown tea and are mainly snacking. Some teahouses also offer simple dishes as fried rice or noodles. Once seated they will expect you to order coffee but that's not what you should go for as it is almost always instant coffee. Order tea, a type of black tea with milk that differ in strength and sweetness: *''bone mahn'': balanced *''cho seh'': sweet *''kyaw p'daung'': sweeter *''pan brown'': bitter and sweet *''jah hseent'': light, with milk, not strong *''pancho'': strong *''bow hseent'': less strong *''noe hseent dee'': milk tea without sugar You will completely mispronounce the tea names (second and sixth are relatively easy) and people might not get what you want at all since it's rare for foreigners to order these teas. So it's better to ask your hotel or any local speaking English to write down the names in Burmese. Since you are a foreigner they will assume that you want your tea ''sheh'' - special - which means it will come with condensed milk. It's also possible to order a ''tankie'' and so the tea will come in a big pot. A simple cup of tea costs 200-400 kyat. Small snacks like samosas, cakes or sweet balls are readily available at the table. If not, ask. At the end you will only pay for the number of pieces eaten. Foodies should check out the type of snacks before deciding on a teahouse. It is not impolite at all to bring your own food, as long as you order at least ''something''. == Sleep == [[File:Sule-Pagoda by-Night.jpg|thumb|Night in Yangon]] Myanmar has good hotel accommodation, particularly in major cities and the main tourist areas, though prices are substantially higher than in [[Thailand]] or [[Vietnam]]. Rooms with attached bath are available for under US$10 everywhere except Yangon and with shared bath for anywhere from US$3–6 in most places. Almost every hotel licensed for foreigners has running hot water (though, in remote areas, availability may be restricted to certain hours of the day). Hotels, with a few exceptions, are usually clean. At the budget end, sheets and blankets may be threadbare and the rooms may be poorly ventilated. A few low-end hotels, particularly in Yangon and other large cities, specialize in cubicle rooms, small single rooms with no windows which, while cheap and clean, are not for the claustrophobic. Rates are quoted as single/double, but the rooms are usually the same whether one person or two stay in the room, making good hotels a real bargain if travelling as a couple. Except at the top-end, breakfast is always included in the price of the room. The tourism boom in Myanmar has left its infrastructure struggling to cope with the increased numbers of visitors. Hotel rooms tend to sell out really fast, and those in popular tourist destinations often sell out months in advance. As a result of the lack of supply, prices have also increased substantially. You should make your hotel bookings well in advance of your planned trip to Myanmar in order not to be stranded when you arrive. Wild camping is not legal in Myanmar. Myanmar has a problem providing enough electricity to its people and power supply is severely restricted everywhere. In many places, electricity may be available only for a few hours each evening or, in some cases, only every alternate evening. If you don't want to spend your nights without a fan or air conditioning, ask if the hotel has a generator (most mid-priced hotels do). On generator nights, the air conditioning in your room may not work (the price is usually lower as well). Even if a hotel has a generator, there is no guarantee that it will be used to provide you electricity at the times you require, so be ready for blackouts at any time of day or night. Major tourist hotels in Yangon and Mandalay have near-uninterrupted electricity supply, but can cost anywhere from US$80–300 per night. At the top-end, Myanmar has some excellent hotels including one or two great ones (The Strand in Yangon and Kandawgyi Palace Hotel in Yangon). The Myanmar government runs many hotels, including some beautiful colonial era ones (though not the two listed in the previous sentence). A percentage of all accommodation payments goes to the government, no matter where you choose to stay, and it is not possible to run a successful business in Myanmar without some relationship or payment arrangement with the military. == Work == {{overseasjobscam|Myanmar, particularly in the areas along the Thai border. In many cases, victims are lured to Thailand with a job offer, then trafficked across the border into Myanmar}} Work in Myanmar for foreigners is hard to come by. NGOs and other aid groups operate in the capital and remote rural areas but may require specific skill sets to hire you. Another option is European and Asian companies, mostly operating on a small scale. Teaching English is feasible in private schools but many foreigners have reported unreasonable contracts, such as withholding pay and refusing to pay those who resign early. The education ministry only hires citizens with teaching certification. If you would like to work and assist Burmese refugees, certain NGOs work in neighbouring [[Thailand]]. == Stay safe == === Crime === The government punishes crime, particularly against tourists, severely; as a result, as far as crime and personal safety go, Myanmar is extremely safe for tourists, and it is generally safe to walk on the streets alone at night. In fact, you are less likely to be a victim of crime in Myanmar than in [[Thailand]] or [[Malaysia]]. However, as with anywhere else, little crime does not mean no crime and it is still no excuse to ditch your common sense. As a foreigner, the most common crime you should be worried about is petty theft, so keep your belongings secured. Physical and verbal harassment towards foreigners is uncommon, even on urban walks near bars. Since 2005, [[Yangon]] and [[Mandalay]] have seen a barely perceptible rise in the very low level of street robberies. There were isolated bombings in 2005 in Mandalay and Yangon, and in 2006 in [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]. === Illegal substances === {{Warningbox|Drug offences are '''''severely punished''''' by the Burmese authorities. Convicted offenders can expect to face lengthy prison sentences. |us = https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Burma.html |canada = https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar }} ===Begging=== Despite traditional taboos against it, [[begging]] has become a major problem in the main tourist areas such as [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] and [[Bagan]]. Children and "mothers" carrying babies are often the ones who beg as they are more effective at soliciting pity. Most beggars are part of larger begging syndicates or just after easy money, as tourists are usually seen to be rich. In addition, the poor can always obtain food for free from the nearest monastery if they can't afford to pay for it, so begging is not necessary for their survival. If you choose to give, note that most Burmese earn only US$40 a month doing manual labour and so giving US$1 to a beggar is ''very'' generous. ===Fake monks=== Theravada Buddhism is the main religion in Myanmar, and it is customary for monks to go on alms rounds in the morning. Unfortunately, there are also many bogus monks who hang out around the main tourist attractions preying on unsuspecting visitors. Alms rounds are solely for the purpose of collecting food: genuine monks are forbidden from accepting, or even touching money. Monks are forbidden from eating after noon, and are also not allowed to sell items or use high pressure tactics to solicit donations. Authentic monks are often found in single file lines with their alms bowls. If you see a single monk requesting money from foreigners he is a fraud. === Corruption === Myanmar is one of the world's most corrupt countries. Officials and other civil servants may discreetly ask you for a bribe, or invent issues (missing forms, closed offices, etc.) in order to get you to suggest one. Pretending not to understand or asking to speak to a superior may work. However, white visitors are rarely targeted, while those of Asian descent (including South Asians and East Asians) may be forced to give bribes, but the brunt of the problem hits normal Burmese. Westerners are very rarely asked for bribes, although most bribes are a US dollar or less, and requested by people earning as little as US$30/month. === Driving conditions === [[File:Jampacked car in Kalaw (Myanmar 2013) (11773361556).jpg|thumb|One of many right-hand drive vehicles imported from Japan into Myanmar. These cause inherent visibility problems when driving on the right side of the road]] The poor road infrastructure, and a mixture of extremely ancient vehicles on the country's roads are all what best describe the road conditions. However, driving habits are not very aggressive compared to say, [[Vietnam]], which does make the safety of the roads comfortable for almost everyone. Although rare, youths sometimes compete against each other on the roads, which has led to some casualties over the past few years. Bus drivers are among the worst dangers, although this is somewhat less of an issue since 2010 due to new, very harsh penalties imposed on bus drivers involved in accidents. Surprisingly, Burma has a mixture of both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, with the majority being right-hand drive (used imports from Japan) but driving is generally done on the right side of the roads. Unless you have experience driving in countries with poorly disciplined drivers and very shabby vehicles, try to avoid driving in Myanmar; alternatively, arrange for a local driver to take you around. === Civil conflict === Various insurgent groups continue to operate in the '''Mon, and Chin (Zomi), states''' of Myanmar, along the Thai and Chinese borders. Travel to these regions generally requires a government permit. The government also sometimes restricts travel to '''Kayah State, Rakhine State, and Kachin State''' due to insurgent activity. However travel is entirely unrestricted to the districts of Yangon, Bago, Ayeyarwady, Sagaing, Taninthayi, Mandalay, and Magwe. Some areas that have been reported as closed have become open without notice, and areas previously regarded as open can become closed with no warning. In addition, local immigration offices may have their own interpretations of regulations. === Politics === [[File:Propaganda, Myanmar 2.jpg|thumb|"Tatmadaw [Armed Forces] and the people in eternal unity. Anyone attempting to divide them is our enemy."]] Myanmar is again under harsh military rule as it was from 1962 - 2012, with a reputation for repressing dissent, as in the case of the house arrest of democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi. There used to be more than 1,500 political prisoners (sentences of 65 years and hard labor in remote camps were given to leaders of the Saffron Revolution), although some have been released. When in Myanmar, abstain from political activities and don't insult the government. Discuss politics, if you must, with people who have had time to get a feel for you. The danger, however, is primarily posed to those you speak with, so let them lead the conversation. Also, realize that many phone lines are tapped. And if you absolutely must wave a democracy banner on the street, you'll simply find yourself on the next outbound flight. Between 2012–2020, liberty in general increased under the new government. A few politically critical articles have been published in government newspapers and a satirical film deriding the government's film censorship policy has been released, neither of which would have been possible even in 2010. Returning visitors to Myanmar may find that locals have become ever so slightly more open to discussions regarding politics. However, under any circumstances avoid doing things that might make the military or police feel uncomfortable, such as taking pictures of police and police buildings or vehicles. == Stay healthy == Hygiene in Myanmar may seem terrible to the average Westerner but it is possible to stay healthy with some basic precautions such as prophylactic medication, care choosing food and water, and antibacterial ointment. '''Never drink [[tap water]]'''. Restaurants are legally required to use ice made and sold by bottled water companies, so ordering ice is usually safe in major places. Always drink bottled water and check that the cap is sealed on, not simply screwed on. Diseases such as [[dengue fever]], [[Japanese encephalitis]] and [[malaria]] are endemic. Drug-resistant strains of malaria and tuberculosis are common in many areas. Hepatitis vaccinations are highly recommended and the cholera oral vaccine is worthwhile. At the dinner table, Burmese use a spoon and fork, or their fingers when this is more convenient. You might feel better rinsing all of them before meals. Antibacterial wipes or alcohol hand-rub is a good idea at regular intervals. As in many developing countries: "if you can't fry, roast, peel or boil it - then forget it". ===HIV=== The rate of HIV infection in Myanmar is high by Western and Asian standards (0.7% of the population in 2019). ===Healthcare=== Myanmar's healthcare system is poorly funded. If you should fall sick in Myanmar, you can visit the doctor in major cities for minor ailments. However, for more serious medical care, hospital conditions tend to be unsanitary and there is often a shortage of medical supplies. The only hospital that comes close to modern developed standards is Pun Hlaing Hospital, a privately owned hospital which is in a remote township of Yangon called Hlaing Thar Yar, and one should expect very high expenses there. Most of the hospitals are government owned, which means poorly funded. Most of the government officials and rich locals go to [[Thailand]] or [[Singapore]] for more serious medical treatment and hospitalisation, and you will be better off doing so too. Make sure you get travel insurance as arranging to be airlifted in an emergency is rather costly. The clinic formerly operated by the Australian Embassy in Yangon closed in 2018. There is a good [https://myanmarmix.com/en/directory/international-sos-clinic-yangon international medical clinic] at the Inya Lake Hotel in Yangon for consulting, testing, radiology and minor surgery. == Respect == {{infobox|Naming conventions|Unlike in many other cultures, there is generally no concept of a family name, patronymic or matronymic in Burmese culture, and most individuals only have a given name. For example, the 8th President, '''Htin Kyaw''', only has a given name with no family name, patronymic or matronymic, and would be addressed as Mr Htin Kyaw by most English speakers. Often, a Burmese honorific, usually '''U''' (ဦး) for men or '''Daw''' (ဒေါ်) for women, may be added to the beginning of the name, so he may be addressed as ''U Htin Kyaw''.}} [[File:Mrauk U - 0002.jpg|thumb|400px|[[Mrauk U]], the old capital of Rakhine in Myanmar]] Modest clothing is highly appreciated everywhere except nightclubs, and practically required in religious places such as pagodas, temples and monasteries (of which there are thousands). Miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed in consecrated areas, where you also have to remove your footwear, so loafers and flip-flops that you can slip on and off at the entrance are preferable. Myanmar has some of the most stunning temples in Asia and you will be tempted to visit more than you think. In Myanmar, you have to remove your footwear before entering the entire temple complex, including in outdoor areas. You might want to bring some wet wipes so you can clean your feet after visiting. Burmese people generally do not engage in public display of affection, even among married couples, and it is generally considered distasteful and should be avoided. Both men and women wear a ''longyi'', a sort of sarong sold everywhere, and it is not unusual to see Caucasian foreigners walking around in them. They are wrapped in different ways for men and women, so find out how to tie yours. If you turn up at a temple in inappropriate dress, you can always rent a longyi for a pittance. When giving and receiving '''business cards''', always use your right hand with the palm facing up, and your left hand supporting your right elbow. As the left hand is traditionally reserved for dirty things, handling business cards with it is considered to be very rude. Tourists of Caucasian descent are commonly referred to as ''bo'', which translates to "officer", a linguistic relic of colonization. Address elders with ''U'' (pronounced "oo", as in s'''oo'''n) or "Uncle" for men, and ''Daw'' or "Auntie" for women. Generally speaking, despite the common negative perception of the government, most ordinary Burmese people are incredibly friendly and polite as long as you respect their local customs. Customer service is in general very good (some say better than in [[Thailand]]) but customer service staff are invariably poorly paid, so you might wish to tip service staff generously to ensure your money goes into the right hands. ===Politics=== Avoid discussing relations with the Rohingya and the ongoing ethnic cleansing as this is a very sensitive and emotive issue that can potentially escalate into a confrontation. The vast majority of Burmese people regard the Rohingya as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh who have no right to be in Myanmar, and their Muslim religion is seen by many as a threat to Buddhism. Most Burmese people are offended when the Rohingya are referred to as such, and will insist that you use the term "Bengali" to refer to them instead. Tread carefully when discussing relations with [[China]]. Even though both the military junta and Aung San Suu Kyi had developed close ties with China and invited Chinese investment in Myanmar's infrastructure, this is strongly opposed by many pro-democracy activists. While the pro-democracy view on China have largely improved due to alleged Chinese support towards anti-junta ethnic armed organisations, China's policy has equally dissatisfied or even angered pro-junta groups. ===Religion=== {{see also|Buddhism#Respect}} Buddhism is the largest religion in the country, followed by roughly 80-90% of the population. Many Burmese people are religious and fundamentalist Buddhism has seen growing support in the 21st century. As in neighbouring Thailand, monks collect alms in the morning and adhere to strict rules such as abstaining from physical contact with women and not touching money. It is customary for Burmese men to spend time living as a monk at least once in their lifetime. Donations to monks should be spontaneous and given in the form of food only, not money; monetary donations should be placed in donation boxes in temples. If you see a monk with money in his alms bowl, he is fake. Monks are not allowed to eat after noon, so if you see a monk going on alms round after noon, he is fake. Buddhist monks are highly respected, and it is essential to show them respect. Always ask for permission before taking a photograph or touching a monk. It is also important to behave appropriately in their presence. If you are on public transportation, it is customary to give up your seat for them as a sign of respect. Showing any form of disrespect to Buddhism is taken '''very seriously''' in Myanmar and you can expect to be treated with '''no degree of leniency''' if you've been accused of disrespecting Buddhism. Disrespecting Buddhism encompasses things like wearing something with Buddha on it, having a tattoo of Buddha, depicting Buddha in an inappropriate way, and so on. Foreigners have been jailed for disrespecting Buddhism, so be careful about what you say and what you do. Do not speak negatively about religion; it is illegal, under Burmese law, to "insult" religion. What counts as "insulting" religion is very broadly defined and open to interpretation. Refrain from engaging in religious discussions with the Burmese. Swastikas are commonly seen in Buddhist temples and '''should not''' be conflated with anti-Semitism and Nazism. ==Connect== === Telephone === Country Code: +95 International Call Prefix: 00 Phone numbers in Myanmar have the format <code>+95 1 234-5678</code> where "95" is the country code for Myanmar, the next one, two, three or four digits are the area code and the remaining 6, 7 or 8 digits are the "local" part of the subscriber number. You can buy GSM/4G sim cards at International airports or any convenience store. Standard sim card costs around 1500 Ks. Some operators may offer special sim for tourists. There are 4 mobile operators in Myanmar, MPT (Government+KDDI), Telenor, Ooredoo and MyTel (Military+VietTel). MPT in the largest in Myanmar in terms of network coverage and user. Operators offer similar price plans. Generally, standard plan offers voice calls for 20 Ks - 25Ks/min, SMS at 15 Ks - 20 Ks/message. Pay as you go data plan offers around 7 Ks/MB but specific data plan will offer around 1000 Ks/GB or cheaper. Prices for IDD and roaming service vary depending on the operators and destination countries. If you are going to use in urban area only for local call and data, there is not much difference between operators. If you are going to visit remote area, please check which operator is available at there. If you are going to use IDD or roaming, you may wisely choose by checking offering price at their websites. === Mail === International mail out of Myanmar is reportedly quite efficient, despite what some hotels might tell you. As elsewhere, there is always a risk if you send valuables as ordinary parcels. Use EMS for fast, and relatively cheap international parcels. === Internet === Country's telecommunication sector was revolutionized in 2013 and speed is steadily increasing and price become cheaper. As of 2020, free Wi-fi is available at almost every Hotels. Unlike other countries, Myanmar hugely rely on 4G Internet than cable or Wi-fi. Surprisingly, Yangon has 4th-fastest 4G speeds in East Asia despite the fact that it had slowest speeds in Asia before 2013. Seamless 4G Internet is available in every city, town and along major highway roads. Even a small village is likely to be covered with at least 3G Internet unless it is in highly remote or armed conflict area. Data costs are around 1000 kyat ($0.8)/GB. There are also cheaper fancy data plans depending on operators. MPT is largest mobile operator and Telenor is second. 4G sim cards are available at International airports and any convenience store. With the extended coverage of 4G and smart phones, once dominant Internet cafes are getting out of business and turn into gaming stations. In case of you need to access Internet urgently, you can use at those gaming stations but extensive file downloading is not welcome for it can effect their gaming experience. Facebook and Viber are the most used apps and services in Myanmar. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|22|96|zoom=5}} 7va8vhtsk3vuit2nc5axpi17o7lhckd 5091345 5091344 2025-07-11T10:44:58Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ I think INR can also go 5091345 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bagan (Myanmar) banner Sunset.jpg|caption=The temples of Bagan at dawn}} {{Warningbox| A nationwide state of emergency remains in force, with nighttime curfews enforced in many cities including Yangon. <!--- Mainland Chinese visitors should be extra careful due to hostility from protesters, and should avoid speaking Mandarin near protest venues.---> Avoid facilities and vehicles linked to security forces and military administration, monitor local media closely, and keep in regular contact with your embassy. Ethnic armed organisations are waging a large-scale offensive in [[Northern Myanmar|Northern]] and [[Eastern Myanmar]] from the Chinese-Myanmar border. Martial law is imposed in part of Shan State, and border crossings along the Chinese-Myanmar border are suspended. There are reports that the prices of many necessities is soaring. Many governments advise against all travel to Myanmar, though the main tourist circuit comprising of [[Yangon]], [[Mandalay]], [[Bagan]] and [[Inle Lake]] is far-removed from the violence and generally safe to visit — corroborated by the UK government's travel advice. A massive earthquake hit the area near Sagaing on 28th March 2025, and a state of emergency has been declared. The earthquake tremors could be felt as far as Hanoi, Vietnam. Many governments advise against all travel to Mandalay and nearby areas. |australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/myanmar |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/myanmar |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar |ie=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/myanmar-burma |sg=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/countries-regions/m/myanmar/travel-page |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/myanmar |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/burma-travel-advisory.html |lastedit=2025-03-31 }} '''Myanmar''' (မြန်မာ ''myanma''), or '''Burma''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]]. The country features awe-inspiring ancient temples, lively local markets, and captivating landscapes, such as unspoiled beaches, picturesque hills, and verdant forests. The genuine warmth of the Burmese people, combined with delectable cuisine, creates an ideal destination for gastronomes and culture aficionados alike. Since the 1960s, the country has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. For a considerable period, Myanmar has been afflicted with political instability, sectarian violence, corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and a prolonged history of colonial exploitation that paid scant attention to human development. == Regions == {{Regionlist | regionmap=Burma Regions Map.png | regionmapsize=425px | region1name=[[Southern Myanmar]] | region1items=''Ayeyarwady, Bago, Yangon'' | region1color=#CAA7C9 | region1description=The lowlands of the Irrawaddy Delta with the largest city and former capital Yangon. | region2name=[[Central Myanmar]] | region2items=''Magway, Mandalay, Naypyitaw'' | region2color=#E5B775 | region2description=Mandalay, historical and archaeological sites and cool hill towns. | region3name=[[Western Myanmar]] | region3items=''Rakhine, Chin'' | region3color=#A4C78A | region3description=Remote mountainous regions and some lovely beaches on the Bay of Bengal. | region4name=[[Northern Myanmar]] | region4items=''Sagaing, Kachin'' | region4color=#d17c82 | region4description=A huge, fractious region including the southern reaches of the Himalayas and many tribes. | region5name=[[Eastern Myanmar]] | region5items=''Shan, Kayah'' | region5color=#76AED2 | region5description=The infamous Golden Triangle and a bewildering number of ethnic groups. | region6name=[[Southeastern Myanmar]] | region6items=''Tanintharyi, Mon, Kayin'' | region6color=#DDE28E | region6description=The southern coastal stretch bordering Thailand with a vast number of offshore islands. }} == Cities == * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Naypyidaw]]|wikidata=Q37400}} (''formerly Pyinmana'') — newly designated capital of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]|wikidata=Q800122}} (''formerly Pegu'') — historic city near Yangon full of Buddhist sights * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kawthaung]]|wikidata=Q978611}} — beach town in the far south which is as much like Thailand as Myanmar gets * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mandalay]]|wikidata=Q185518}} — former capital of the Konbaung Dynasty built around the Mandalay Royal Palace and main commercial centre of Upper Myanmar * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mawlamyine]]|wikidata=Q685941}} (''Moulmein'') — capital of Mon State and the third largest city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pyin U Lwin]]|wikidata=Q1360318}} (''Maymyo'') — a cool town (in both temperature and attractions) which is a former British colonial hill station * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taunggyi]]|wikidata=Q1075566}} — capital of Shan State in the heart of the Golden Triangle * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Twante]]|wikidata=Q7857423}} — a delta town that is famous for pottery * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Yangon]]|wikidata=Q37995}} (''formerly Rangoon'') — the economic centre, known for its pagodas and colonial architecture == Other destinations == <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bagan]]|wikidata=Q29317}} — an archaeological zone with thousands of ancient pagodas near the banks of the Irrawaddy River, and a {{UNESCO}} * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Inle Lake]]|wikidata=Q1043461}} — a large shallow lake famous for boat trips, visiting floating villages inhabited by the Intha people, hiking, and also a source of excellent silk * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kengtung]]|wikidata=Q1027111}} — between [[Mong La]] (on the border with China) and [[Tachileik]] (on the border with Thailand) in the Golden Triangle, known for the ''Ann'' (black teeth people) and ''Akha'' tribes and trekking * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kyaiktiyo]]|wikidata=Q6450666}} — a gold-gilded rock sitting atop a cliff and a major pilgrimage site * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mount Popa]]|wikidata=Q1150764}} — an extinct volcano regarded as the Mount Olympus of Myanmar, a green oasis high above the hot plains and an easy day trip from Bagan * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mrauk U]]|wikidata=Q1951490}} — former capital of the Rakhine Kingdom, with many ancient pagodas that serve as a reminder of that era * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngapali]]|wikidata=Q19701446}} — beach resort in western [[Rakhine State]], on the Bay of Bengal * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngwe Saung]]|wikidata=Q7023181}} — longest stretch of beach in Ayeyarwaddy (English: Irrawaddy) Division, white sandy beach and crystal clear water are the features of Ngwe Saung Beach * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pyay]]|wikidata=Q691747}} — a town on the Irrawaddy River midway between Yangon and Bagan, known for its archaeological site ''Sri Kittara'', the ancient Pyu capital from 2 to 9 CE * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pathein]]|wikidata=Q870103}} — a river town in the Irrawaddy delta, known for manufacture of umbrellas, gateway to Chuang Tha and Ngwe Saung Beaches == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMyanmar.png}} === History === Like most of Southeast Asia's countries, Myanmar's people and history is a glorious mishmash of settlers and invaders from all fronts. The Mon and the Pyu are thought to have come from [[India]], while the now dominant Bamar (Burmese) migrated through [[Tibet]] and, by 849, had founded a powerful kingdom centred on [[Bagan]]. The ethnic diversity of the region, and the dominance of the Bamar people in the central plains, set up the geopolitical struggles between them and the multitude of smaller ethnic groups surrounding, which have continued unabated until the present day. From the 9th century to the 19th century, the Burmese empire grew through conquests of [[Thailand]] ([[Ayutthaya]]) and India ([[Manipur]]), and shrank under attacks from [[China]] and internal rebellions. [[File:Bago, Myanmar (Burma) - panoramio (44).jpg|thumb|Resting Buddha statue in Bago]] Eventually, [[United Kingdom|Britain]] conquered Burma over a period of 62 years (1824-1886) and incorporated it into its Indian Empire, and King Thibaw, the last Burmese monarch, was exiled to [[Ratnagiri]] in what is today [[India]]. Like in their other colonies, the British maintained control partly through a "divide and conquer" strategy, in which they deliberately stoked tensions between different ethnic and religious groups, resulting in ethnic and religious conflicts that have never been resolved. For example, bureaucrats were imported from India, and other government positions tended to be manned by locals from the smaller ethnic groups. Burma was administered as a province of India until 1937 when it became a separate colony. During the Second World War, Burma was a major battleground as the Allies fought the Japanese for dominance over Asia. The [[Burma Road]] was built to get supplies to China. The Thailand-Burma railway (the so-called "Death Railway") from [[Kanchanaburi]] in Thailand over the River Kwai to Burma was built by the Japanese using forced labour &mdash; Allied prisoners-of-war, indentured Thai labourers, Burmese people and other Southeast Asians. They had to work in appalling conditions and a great number of them died (estimated at 80,000) during construction of the railway. Large parts of Western Burma, particularly the hilly areas bordering India and the city of [[Mandalay]], were severely damaged during the war. Burmese independence fighters led by '''General Aung San''' cooperated with the Japanese to oust the British at first; the Japanese promised to grant independence to Burma in exchange. However, life under Japanese occupation was even more brutal than life under British colonialism, and many Burmese were killed, such as in the Kalagong massacre. Aung San subsequently switched allegiance and helped the allies win Burma back from the Japanese. Aung San subsequently led negotiations with the British for Burmese independence after the end of World War II, and the British agreed in 1947 to grant independence to Burma the following year, though Aung San himself was assassinated later in 1947 and never lived to see his dream come true. Independence from the British under the name '''Union of Burma''' was finally attained on 4 January 1948, and General Aung San is regarded by most Burmese people to be their father of independence. The new union brought together various states defined by ethnic identity, many of whom had centuries-long histories of autonomy from and struggles against each other. In the interest of securing their collective independence from Britain, the tribes reached an agreement to submit to collective governance—with power sharing among the ethnicities and states—for ten years, after which each tribe would be afforded the right to secede from the union. The terms of this "Pinlon Agreement" were enshrined in the 1947/1948 constitution of the new Union of Burma. The new central government of the nation quickly worked to consolidate its power, marginalising and angering tribal leaders and setting off ethnic armed conflict that has continued unabated until the present day. In 1961, more than 200 ethnic leaders from the Shan people, Kachin people, Red Karen, Karen people, Chin peoples, Mon people and Rakhine people met with ethnic Bamar (Burmese) central government authorities to draft a new form of government which would ensure the tribes both autonomy and self-determination within a federal system. [[File:Aung San Suu Kyi December 2011 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Aung San Suu Kyi]] The new government was never formed. Nevertheless, up until Ne Win's coup in 1962, Burma was regarded as one of the most developed and fastest growing economies in Asia, and widely touted as a contender to be the next Japan. Military leader General Ne Win led a coup d'état which ousted the democratically elected government in 1962, and installed himself as leader. General Ne Win dominated the government from 1962 to 1988, first as military ruler, then as self-appointed president, and later as political kingpin. Under Ne Win's rule, widespread corruption and nepotism led the Burmese economy into a downward spiral from which it has never fully recovered. Pro-democracy demonstrations in 1988 were violently crushed, with general Saw Maung taking over in a coup and installing the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) to rule the country, now renamed '''Myanmar'''. Multiparty legislative elections were held in 1990, with the main opposition party - the National League for Democracy (NLD) - winning a landslide victory (392 of 489 seats). But SLORC refused to hand over power, instead placing NLD leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi (daughter of national hero Aung San) under house arrest, which she has endured for 14 of the last 20 years. Today Myanmar, a resource-rich country, suffers from pervasive government controls, inefficient economic policies, and rural poverty. What was once one of the richest and most developed countries in Asia has since slumped into poverty due to widespread corruption. The junta took steps in the early 1990s to liberalise price controls after decades of failure under the "Burmese Way to Socialism," but had to reinstate subsidised prices on staples in the face of food riots, upon which the democracy movement grafted its agenda. The government called out troops and the rioters were defiant until the monks intervened: standing between both sides, they told everyone to go home and they did. The riots caused overseas development assistance to cease and the government subsequently nullified the results of the 1990 legislative elections. In response to the government's attack in May 2003 on Aung San Suu Kyi and her convoy, the [[USA]] imposed new economic sanctions against Myanmar, including bans on imports of products from Myanmar and on provision of financial services by US citizens. [[File:NLD Flag from car Yangon.png|thumb|A National League for Democracy supporter in Yangon]] The summer of 2007 was marked by demonstrations against the military government which were again brutally suppressed. The demonstrations started in August, apparently in an uncoordinated manner, as a protest against a stiff hike in the price of petrol, but morphed into a more serious challenge to the government after three monks were beaten at a protest march in the town of Pakokku. The monks demanded an apology but none was forthcoming and soon processions of monks with begging bowls held upside down filled many cities (including [[Sittwe]], [[Mandalay]] and [[Yangon]]). Yangon, particularly the area around Sule Pagoda in the downtown area, became the centre of these protests. While the monks marched, and many ordinary citizens came out in support of the monks, the world watched as pictures, videos, and blogs flooded the Internet. However, the government soon suppressed the protests by firing on crowds, arresting monks and closing monasteries, and temporarily shut down Internet communications with the rest of the world. This led the US, [[Australia]], [[Canada]] and the [[European Union]] to impose additional sanctions, some targeting the families and finances of the military leaders. [[File:Protesters against the military coup.jpg|thumb|Protesters demonstrating against the 2021 military coup]] Following elections in 2010, Burma began a process of liberalisation that has led to a reduction or removal of sanctions by many nations including the United States. In 2012, Aung San Suu Kyi was elected to the Burmese parliament and allowed to travel to Europe and North America. Censorship of foreign and local news was also suspended. In November 2015, Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won a landslide victory in the nationwide legislative elections and Htin Kyaw, a close ally of Aung San Suu Kyi, became president. In April 2016, Aung San Suu Kyi took office as State Counsellor, a post equivalent to prime minister, making her Myanmar's ''de facto'' head of government. In February 2021, the military once again took power in a coup d'état after a landslide victory by the NLD. Country-wide mass protests and a civil disobedience movement sprung up in the aftermath; protests were brutally crushed as the army killed hundreds of NLD supporters and democratic activists. Thousands of NLD and other pro-democracy politicians, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and community leaders were arrested. Peaceful protests still occur sporadically while other groups of protesters have taken up arms against the military regime, particularly in the border regions. Western countries have re-imposed economic sanctions on Myanmar as a result of the coup. As of mid-2024, the junta controls less than half of the area of the country, and Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) have been successfully mounting co-ordinated attacks with increasing confidence. However, this brutal civil war still has no end in sight. ===Culture=== Myanmar's culture is largely a result of Indian influences intertwined with local traditions and Chinese influences. This can be seen in the various stupas and temples throughout the country, which bear a distinct resemblance to those in northern India. As in neighbouring [[Thailand]], Theravada Buddhism is the single largest religion. 88% of the population follows these Buddhist practices, and even some of the most remote villages will have a temple for people to pray at. Other religions which exist in smaller numbers include Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Animism and ancestor worship can also be found around the country, especially in the more distant, hill tribe regions. One pre-Buddhist tradition that survives in Myanmar is the worship of the '''''Nats''''', or traditional Burmese spirits, and you will see many spirit houses throughout the country dedicated to their worship. Following the spread of Theravada Buddhism, the worship of the Nats was incorporated into Burmese Buddhism, and they are today regarded as subordinates of the Buddha. ===People=== [[File:Burmese people 01.jpg|thumb|Boys in Yangon with thanaka paste on their faces]] The dominant ethnic group in Myanmar is known as the Bamar, from which the original English name of the country, Burma, was derived. Besides the Bamar, Myanmar is also home to many minority ethnic groups and nationalities which have their own distinct cultures and languages. In addition to the native ethnic minorities, Myanmar is also home to ethnic Chinese and Indians whose ancestors migrated to Myanmar during the colonial period, most visible in the cities of Yangon and Mandalay. Myanmar is divided into fourteen administrative divisions, seven regions and seven states; generally speaking, the regions are Bamar-dominated, while the states are dominated by the respective ethnic minorities. The government has been condemned by other nations for violence against the Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, which borders Bangladesh. The government does not recognise them as citizens of Myanmar, but instead claims they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, a narrative embraced by the vast majority of Burmese despite the Rohingya's presence in Rakhine going back generations. Forced to flee to Bangladesh in large numbers, where they are also regarded as foreigners, many have lost their lives trying to seek refuge and work in Malaysia. Generally speaking, most Myanmar people are incredibly friendly and polite, and will do their best to make you feel welcome in their country. ===Politics=== Myanmar, officially the '''Republic of the Union of Myanmar''' (ပြည်ထောင်​စု သမ္မတ မြန်မာ​နိုင်​ငံတော်), is a presidential republic, with the president, who is appointed by the legislature, serving as both head of state and ''de jure'' head of government. He and his cabinet form the executive branch. The legislature is composed of the bicameral ''Pyidaungsu Hluttaw'' (Assembly of the Union), consisting of an upper ''Amyotha Hluttaw'' (House of Nationalities), and a lower ''Pyithu Hluttaw'' (House of Representatives). While a majority of the members of the legislature are popularly elected by the people, a quarter the seats are reserved for appointees from the military. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won a majority of seats in the 2015 election. As she is constitutionally barred from the presidency (by virtue of having married a foreigner), she instead served as the ''de facto'' head of government in the role of State Counsellor. As of February 2021, Myanmar is ruled by a military dictatorship. === Climate === Myanmar is considered to have 3 seasons. The hot season is usually from Mar–Apr. Temperatures then cool off during the rainy season from May–Oct. The peak tourism season is the cool season from Nov–Feb. Temperatures can climb as high as 36°C in Yangon in the hot season while in the cool season, noontime temperatures are usually a more bearable 32°C, with night temperatures falling to around 19°C. Mandalay is slightly cooler in the cool season, with temperatures falling as low as 13°C, while temperatures in the hot season can go as high as 37°C. Generally, Lower Myanmar, the area around Yangon, receives more rainfall than the drier Upper Myanmar (around Mandalay). In the highlands such as [[Inle Lake]] and [[Pyin U Lwin]], winter temperatures can fall below 10°C at night, while daytime temperatures tend to be very pleasant. Even in the summer, temperatures rarely climb above 32°C. Near the Indian border in [[Kachin State]], there are permanently snow-capped mountains. === Read === [[File:Haridaung-Mrauk U-Aussicht-06-Pagoden im Dunst-gje.jpg|thumb|View of Mrauk U]] * ''From the Land of the Green Ghosts'' by Pascal Khoo Thwe. A Cambridge-educated writer gives a touching account of his growing up as a Paduang-Hilltribe-Guyand in the difficult political environment before becoming a rebel. ({{ISBN|0007116829}}) * ''The Glass Palace'' by Amitav Ghosh. A novel that spans a century, from British conquest to the modern day. A compelling account of how a family adapted to the changing times; provides much insight into Burmese culture. * ''The River of Lost Footsteps'' by Thant Myint-U. Easily the most accessible history of Myanmar available. Read it before you go and you will marvel at how the once great and rich cities (like Martaban, Syriam, and [[Mrauk U|Mrauk-U]]) have become the dingy and smoky villages of today. ({{ISBN|0374163421}}) * ''The Trouser People'' by Andrew Marshall. The author follows in the footsteps of Victorian explorer, Sir George Scott. This book looks at lost British heritage as well as the Burmese tragedies occurring in the present. ({{ISBN|0140294457}}) * ''Finding George Orwell in Burma'' by Emma Larkin. The pseudonymous author, a journalist, posed as a tourist to travel around Myanmar in the early 2000s, before the government opened up the country to the world. She documents a country trapped in the past, attempts to distinguish sympathetic storytellers from police informants, and retraces Orwell's life in Myanmar, who went on to give the world the vocabulary to criticise the repressive police state which the country had since become. ({{ISBN|1594200521}}) * ''Burma Chronicles'' by Guy Delisle. A whimsical and humorous graphic novel about a family who moves to Yangon on assignment with an NGO in the mid-2000s. The protagonist, a stay-at-home dad, adapts to life in Burma with his infant son while his wife works long hours. An enjoyable and light read, this work does not dwell on human rights under the dictatorship, but rather focusses on the day-to-day life of the protagonist and the characters he meets. ({{ISBN|9781897299500}}) === Listen === * [https://insightmyanmar.org/ ''Insight Myanmar''] used to be a podcast about religion and spirituality, but it pivoted to providing news and interviews with experts following the military coup of February 2021. * ''[https://www.myanmarmusings.com/ Myanmar Musings]'' is the podcast of the [https://myanmar.anu.edu.au/ Myanmar Research Centre] at the Australian National University, Canberra. While much more academic than ''Insight Myanmar'', it still features interviews with a variety of experts on a range of historical and present-day topics relating to research on Myanmar. * [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-happening-in-myanmar/id1777519120 ''What's Happening in Myanmar''] is a news podcast that is useful for keeping up with the ever-changing political and military situation on the ground in Myanmar. === Holidays === * 4 January: Independence Day * January: Kayin New Year Day - 1st waxing of Pyatho * 12 February: Union Day * March: Full Moon Day of Tabaung * 27 March: Armed Forces Day * April: Thingyan (Burmese New Year) — the most important festival in Myanmar, in which people splash water at each other. Also known as the Water Festival, and similar to Songkran in neighbouring Thailand * May: Full Moon Day of Kason * July: Full Moon Day of Waso * October: Full Moon Day of Thadingyut * 19 July: Martyrs Day * November: National Day - 10 st waning of the moon of Tazaungmon * 25 December: Christmas Day === Units of measure === {{See also|Metric and Imperial equivalents}} Since 2013, Myanmar has begun adopting the '''metric system''' (SI), which is now used for weather reports, petrol prices, and speed limits, and ''new'' road signs. However, much usage of '''imperial system''' and the traditional '''Burmese units of measurement''' persist. Old road signs may use miles and miles per hour, and government websites inconsistently convert Burmese units to metric or Imperial. ===Tourist information === * [https://tourism.gov.mm/ Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website == Talk == {{see also|Burmese phrasebook}} [[File:Vendeurs de plantes médicinales vers Kyaiktiyo Paya.jpg|thumb|Burmese signs at a market]] The official language of Myanmar is '''[[Burmese phrasebook|Burmese]]''' (မြန်မာစကား ''mien ma za ga'') (known by the government as Myanmar), a Sino-Tibetan language related to Chinese and hence tonal (word pitch matters) and analytic (most words are one syllable long). It is written using the Burmese script, based on the ancient Pali script. Bilingual signs (English and Burmese) are available in most tourist spots. Numbers often are also written in Burmese script. Much vocabulary is derived from another ancient languages of Pali (at the time of Buddha) and [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]]. There are also many other ethnic groups in Myanmar such as the Mon, Shan, Pa-O, Rohingya and many others who continue to speak their own languages. While Burmese serves as the lingua franca in government-controlled areas, it may not be spoken at all in some separatist-controlled areas. There is also a sizeable ethnic Chinese community who speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] and/or various Chinese dialects. In Yangon, most of the Chinese are descendants from migrants from Fujian and Guangdong, and hence speak mainly [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]] or Taishanese, while in Mandalay, the Chinese are mostly descendants of migrants from Yunnan, and mainly speak the Yunnan dialect of Mandarin. Some areas are also home to various ethnic Indian communities who continue to speak various Indian languages. Myanmar is a former British colony and many Burmese understand at least some rudimentary English. Most well-educated upper class Burmese speak English fluently, while any educated Burmese will know at least the basics. Hotel and airline staff, as well as people working in the tourism industry generally speak a good level of English. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Myanmar.png|450px|thumbnail|right|Visa policy of Myanmar {{legend|#ED1C24|Myanmar}} {{legend|#22B14C|Visa free & eVisa}} {{legend|#FF7F27|eVisa (Business & Tourism)}} {{legend|#FFB583|eVisa (Business)}} {{legend|#FFC90D|eVisa (Tourism)}} {{legend|#ABABAB|Visa required in advance}}]] The visa situation in Myanmar is changing quickly and this has caused confusion even among immigration staff, and many guides and official websites are out of date. Check Wikipedia for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Myanmar visa policy]. ====Visa-free==== Citizens of the following countries may visit Myanmar without a visa for tourism provided they enter '''by air''', and their stay does not exceed the following number of days: *14 days: [[Brunei]], [[Cambodia]], [[Laos]], [[Philippines]], [[Thailand]] *30 days: [[Russia]], [[Vietnam]] Citizens of [[Singapore]] may visit Myanmar without a visa for up to 30 days regardless of mode of entry. These visa exemptions are strictly not extendable. All other travelers are required to apply for a visa in advance. ====E-Visa==== [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ E-Visa] are available for visitors from many countries, including most Western countries for US$50/tourist and US$70/business travelers (as of Jan 2020) through the [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ Myanmar Immigration's web-site], which take 3 days to process. However, there is also an express tourist e-Visa service available on the governments website for US$56 (rather than the standard US$50) taking 24 hr (though sometimes just a few hours). Check the e-Visa website for details on which nationalities this is available for. The visa is valid for 28 day for stays beginning up to 90 days from the date of issue, and is single entry only. In order to apply, you will need to upload a passport-sized colour photo, and payment which is only accepted by credit card. Permitted entry points are: Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, Nay Pyi Taw International Airport, and the longtail boat crossing from Ranong, Thailand at [[Kawthaung]] Tourist visas are valid for 3 months. The visa is valid for a stay of up to four weeks (from date of entry), although you can overstay if you are willing to pay a US$3 a day fee upon departure. Employment is ''not'' allowed on a tourist visa, and working runs you the risk of being arrested and deported. Successful applicants will also be issued an "Arrival Form", which will be stapled into your passport and must be presented on arrival in Myanmar, along with your passport containing the visa sticker. ====Visa on arrival==== As of October 2019, [http://www.mip.gov.mm/on-arrival-visa/ visas on arrival] are available for tourist and business visitors of some nationalities at Yangon, Mandalay and Naypyidaw airports. You must bring two passport-sized colour photos, and a letter of invitation from the company sponsoring your visa (for business visas). There is still some confusion at airports about this because official resources are not being updated to match changes but most tourists are not experiencing difficult- if you experience any insist you are eligible for a visa and ask for a senior staff member. Note: In August 2022 a directive from Myanmar to airline staff immediately (and inexplicably) suspended the Tourist Visa on Arrival for all nationalities. This has not been updated on government websites. Check well in advance at the check-in counter what the status is, and consider playing it safe with an e-visa. ====Visa at an embassy or consulate==== You can apply for all kinds of visas in a Myanmar embassy or consulate in many capitals and large cities around the world. See specific details like contacts, hours, etc. there&mdash;especially for [[Bangkok#Embassies|Bangkok]] and [[Chiang Mai#Consulates|Chiang Mai]] in Thailand, [[Delhi#Cope|Delhi]] in India, [[Hong Kong#Consulates|Hong Kong]] in China, and [[Washington, D.C.#Embassies|Washington D.C.]] in the US. Generally the visa application requires a completed visa form (available from the Myanmar embassy), a completed arrival form (again, from the embassy), a photocopy of the photo page from your passport, two passport-sized photos, proof of your occupation, and the applicable fee. === By plane === Myanmar's main international airport is located at '''[[Yangon]]''', the largest city and main economic centre. There are regular scheduled flights from Yangon to many major Asian cities. For travellers from outside the region, the easiest way to get into Myanmar will be to catch a flight from either [[Singapore]] or [[Bangkok]], both of which have large overseas Burmese populations, and are served by several daily flights into Yangon. Myanmar also has a second international airport at '''[[Mandalay]]''', which is served by several flights to the neighbouring countries. For a current list of airlines and destinations, see [https://www.yangonairport.aero/index.php/en/ Airport of Yangon]. The two main international airlines based out of Yangon are flag carrier '''[http://flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airines]''' and privately owned '''[http://www.maiair.com/ Myanmar Airways International]'''. ===By land=== Myanmar borders five countries: China, India, Bangladesh, Thailand and Laos. Foreigners are free to travel overland from Thailand into the Burmese heartland provided their Burmese visa is in order. Entering Myanmar from the other land border crossings, though, is a different story. At the very least, you must apply for special permits in advance, and you may need to join a guided tour in order for the permit to be granted. ====Thailand==== Four border crossings exist between Myanmar and [[Thailand]] at [[Tachileik]]/[[Mae Sai]], [[Myawaddy]]/[[Mae Sot]], [[Htee Kee]]/[[Ban Phunamron]] and the [[Three Pagoda Pass]]. The former three are open to foreigners, and there are no restrictions on foreigners travelling into the Burmese heartland from Myawaddy or Htee Kee. From Tachileik, travel beyond Keng Tung is not possible overland unless you are on a guided tour with a special permit. No visa-on-arrival is available though, so ensure that your Thai (if required) and Burmese visas are in order. ====China==== Foreigners can enter Myanmar at [[Muse (Myanmar)|Muse]] via [[Ruili]] (in [[Yunnan]]), although a permit (as well as a visa) and a guide are needed. You will most likely need to join an organized tour. Crossing in the opposite direction is more difficult to arrange and details are uncertain; however, it's possible to fly from [[Mandalay]] to [[Kunming]], and there's even a Chinese consulate that issues visas in Mandalay. ====India==== A land border crossing exists between [[India]] and Myanmar at Moreh/[[Tamu]] and is open to tourists who have vehicles and who are on foot or who have tours. As of 2023, Myanmar eVisas are ''not'' valid for entry at this border, so you'll need to get a visa in advance. This border is in politically unstable territory and there have been protests and two bomb blasts in the Indian town of Moreh (Oct 2019) which briefly closed the border. Tourists are generally advised not to loiter in Moreh, especially late at night- and to stay in Tamu on the Myanmar side if possible. It is no longer required to have a permit to visit the Indian state of [[Manipur]] which borders Myanmar. ====Laos==== The Myanmar-Laos Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River is the sole official border crossing between Myanmar and Laos. The bridge connects [[Shan State]] in Myanmar with [[Luang Namtha|Luang Namtha Province]] in [[Laos]], in a ''very'' remote region for both countries, and information on when (or whether) the crossing is operating is hard to find. As eVisas are not accepted for entry at this crossing, you'll need to get a visa in advance. ====Bangladesh==== It is not feasible to cross the border between Myanmar and [[Bangladesh]] independently. No border crossings exist between the two nations, and the Myanmar army has planted [[landmines]] along the frontier to discourage smugglers. ===By boat=== Small wooden longtail boats shuttle between [[Ranong]], [[Thailand]] and [[Kawthaung]], Myanmar. There is no fixed schedule; you just negotiate directly with one of the boat operators, and they will leave once a price is agreed on. Be sure to bargain hard or you might get ripped off. Boat operators may try you hustle you onto their boat before you find the immigration building to get stamped out; be firm and insist on going through immigration, or you will be considered to have left the country illegally. You will need to pay a US$10 or 500 Thai baht "stamping fee" to Myanmar immigration when entering or leaving via this checkpoint. If choosing to pay by U.S. dollars, be sure your bills are in pristine condition; even slight creases will cause your bills to be rejected. == Get around == Myanmar's infrastructure is in poor shape. Travel to certain regions is prohibited; for others, special permits must be obtained, and a guide/interpreter/minder may be mandatory - although whether these "guides" accompany you to look after you, or to keep you from going to places the government doesn't want you to see, is a question best discussed elsewhere. However, travel between the main tourist sites, namely Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon, is fairly straightforward. ===Restricted areas=== Much of Myanmar is closed to foreign travellers, and many land routes to far-flung areas are also closed (for example, to [[Mrauk U]], [[Kalewa]], [[Putao]], [[Kengtung]]). Due to longstanding ethnic conflicts, many ethnic minority areas are controlled by armed separatist groups and remain outside the control of the central government. Thus, while tourists can travel freely in the Bamar-majority Burmese heartland, travel tends to be restricted or circumscribed in ethnic minority areas. In theory, any tourist can apply for a permit to visit any restricted area or to travel on any restricted land route. In practice, it is unlikely that any such permit will be issued in a reasonable amount of time, or at all. Permit requests can be made locally in some cases (for example, requests for the land route to [[Kalewa]] can be made in [[Shwebo]]) but, in most cases, the request has to be made in [[Yangon]]. Requests to visit restricted areas must be made at the [http://myanmartravelsandtours.com/ MTT (Myanmar Travel and Tours)] office in Yangon (Number 77–91, Sule Pagoda Rd, Yangon). Applications for local permits can often be made at a local MTT office or at a police station. Local permits are available only for the following places & routes: *[[File:Pa-O women at restaurant stall, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Pa-O women at a restaurant stall]][[Kengtung]] - [[Tachilek]]. This used to be straightforward but the availability is now uncertain. *[[Mrauk U]] Chin/Zomi village tours. Easily available in Mrauk U, but must visit with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Myitkyina]] - [[Indawgyi Lake]]. Easily available in Myitkyina but must travel with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Shwebo]] - [[Kalewa]]. A permit is necessary if going by road. It is uncertain whether one is required if going by boat. *[[Pa-O Self-Administered Zone]] in [[Shan State]] (including the Kakku Pagodas). Available in [[Taunggyi]], but must be accompanied by a local Pa-O guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this. All other permits must be obtained in Yangon. Permits for some places, such as Putao, are obtainable but need to be applied for well in advance Myanmar is not [[North Korea]], and you are free to walk around, go to shops and interact with the locals. However, with many of the more far flung places, and places restricted to foreigners, it is better to arrange your internal visa in advance. Companies that can help with internal visas: *[http://www.mrmyanmartravel.com Mr Myanmar Travel] *[http://www.remoteasia.com Remote Asia Travel] *[http://www.travelmyanmar.com Travel Myanmar] ===By plane=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Sample fares between important destinations (through local tourist agency)''' ! From !! To !! Approximate fare |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || US$95 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || US$85 |- | [[Bagan]] || [[Heho]] || US$65 |- | [[Heho]] || [[Yangon]] || US$85 |} The poor state of Myanmar's roads and railways make flying by far the least uncomfortable option when travelling long distances. Flag carrier '''[https://www.flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airlines]''' operates a network of domestic flights to many destinations across Myanmar from its hub in Yangon International Airport. Long known for its poor safety record, it has improved dramatically with the purchase of newer aircraft, and these days compares favourably with many of the private airlines in terms of both service and safety. There are also several private airlines operating domestic flights from Yangon. The private airline companies are usually on time, and even depart early (10-20 min), so be on time and reconfirm your flight and flight time 1–2 days before departure. Sometimes the itinerary might be altered some days before departure (meaning that you will still fly to your final destination on the scheduled time, but with an added or removed in between stop, e.g., Yangon-Bagan becomes Yangon-Mandalay-Bagan). This usually only affects your arrival time. En route stops have only 10-20 min ground time, and if it is not your final destination, you can stay inside the plane during the stop. All domestic flight from Yangon depart from Terminal 3, while international flights depart from Terminals 1 & 2. When taking a taxi from downtown to the airport, mention to the driver that you are on a domestic flight so you'll not end up in the wrong terminal. ===By train=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Train travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Ordinary || Upper || Sleeper |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 16 hr || 4,600&nbsp;kyat || 9,300&nbsp;kyat || 13,000&nbsp;kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 6 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,500&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 4 hr || 550&nbsp;kyat || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 7 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,750&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Lashio]] || 16 hr || 1,900&nbsp;kyat || 4,400&nbsp;kyat || None |} Myanmar has an extensive rail network, a relic of British rule. Unfortunately, there has been little maintenance or growth since the British left. Trains are slow, noisy, uncomfortable, and prone to delays. Electrical blackouts are becoming rare but nonetheless never assume that air conditioners, fans or the electrical supply itself will be working throughout the whole journey. Most trains have upper class and ordinary class. Ordinary class has wide open windows, benches and can be packed with locals transporting their goods. Upper class has upholstered chairs, fans and is less crowded. Be careful putting your head out of the window as it is likely to be hit by a branch. Vegetation grows so close to the tracks that you can reach out and touch it. Tickets are cheap and tourists pay the same price as locals, but tourists cannot buy tickets on the train. At smaller stations, you may have to seek the stationmaster or use an interpreter to buy a ticket. Your passport is required when purchasing. [[File:Gokteik Viaduct, Southbound.jpg|thumb|The famous Gokteik Viaduct dates from 1899]] A journey on a train is a great way to see the country and meet people. The rail journey from [[Mandalay]], up hairpin bends to [[Pyin U Lwin]], and then across the mountains and the famous bridge at Gokteik, is one of the great railway journeys of the world. Trains in lower Mandalay, Yangon-Pathein and Yangon-Mawlymaing, are little communities of their own with hawkers selling everything imaginable. Sleepers are available on many overnight express trains, although in the high season you may want to reserve a few days in advance. Tickets go on sale three days in advance. At some stations there is a separate counter for advance bookings, or even a separate building (e.g., in Yangon). Food service is available on the express in both directions between Yangon and Mandalay. Except for the new bridge and rail line that connects [[Mawlamyine]] to points on the west side of the Salween River, the rail network is exactly the way it was in British times. The most-used line is the 325km line from Yangon to Mandalay with several trains a day. It is the only double line in Myanmar, and also the only one that is competitive in time with buses. The fastest trains take 15 hr for the 385km run, an effective rate of 25km/hour. A second line connects Yangon with Pyay, 9 hr for the 175&nbsp;km journey, with a branch heading off into the delta region town of Pathein. These tracks, the earliest constructed, are in poor shape. With the construction of the bridge across the Salween, it is now possible to go by train from Yangon to Mawlamyine, 8 hr for the 200km journey, and on to Ye and Dawei. From Mandalay, trains continue on to Myitkyina in Kachin State, 350km in 24 hr, and to Lashio. There are also rail connections between Yangon-Bagan and Mandalay-Bagan, but bus or ferry are better alternatives: the 175km from Mandalay to Bagan takes 10 hours. There is railway service between Yangon-Bagan. 16 hr, first class US$30, upper class US$40, sleeper US$50. (check new prices) Train tickets cannot be paid in dollars any more, and the government has abandoned the former dual-pricing structure that saw tourists pay inflated prices. === By boat === There is also a large river ferry network. Both are to a large extent run by the government, although there are now some private ferry services. The trip from Mandalay to Bagan takes the better part of a day, from Bagan to Yangon is several days. === By bus === {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ ''' Bus travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 11 hr || 10,400 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || 10 hr || 12,000 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 4 hr || 6,000 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 2 hr || 1,500 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 5.5 hr || 4,500 |} Buses of all types ply the roads of Myanmar. Luxury (relatively speaking) buses do the Mandalay-Yangon run while lesser vehicles can get travellers to other places. Fares are reasonable and in kyat and buses are faster than the trains. Many long-distance buses assign seats, so it is best to book seats at least a day in advance. Because the roads are bad, avoid the rear of the bus and try to sit as far up front as you can. Long-distance buses also have an extra jump seat that blocks the aisle and, because it is not well secured to the chassis, can be uncomfortable (which also means that there is no such thing as a side seat where taller people can stretch their legs). A window near the front of the bus is always the best option. Even budget travellers will find themselves buying more tickets via their hotel or an agency rather than going to the bus company to buy it directly. Their offices are often located far from any tourist place and the cost of going there and back will most likely exceed the commission your hotel will get for selling you the ticket. Shop around and compare prices before buying your ticket as some vendors include a free pick-up from your hotel. A bus ticket scam seems to be popular in Yangon. While many make a stopover in Bago, they are told at their guesthouse or at the bus station it's not possible to buy tickets there in the direction to Mandalay. In a country where everything might be possible when it comes to transport, some people fall for this. Actually, this is not the case and tracking back to Yangon for a bus ticket up north is not necessary at all. Bago has a bus terminal with several bus offices. Buying your ticket at Bago might be slightly cheaper (depending upon your bargaining skills) and gives you more freedom for the rest of your journey. The adjoining table summarises travel times and approximate fares between important tourist destinations in Myanmar. Most bus fares have gone up with the fuel price rises, so the fares listed are rough estimates. === By pick-up === Old pick-up trucks run everywhere in Myanmar, cheaply ferrying men, women, children, and monks from one place to another. The rear of the truck is converted into a canvas-covered sitting area with three benches, one on each side and one running along the centre of the truck (some smaller trucks have only two rows), and the running board is lowered and fixed into place providing room for six or more people to stand on (holding on to the truck frame). Pick-ups are ubiquitous in Myanmar and every town has a central point somewhere from where they depart to places both near and far. Tourists who go off the beaten track will find them indispensable because often the only alternative is an expensive taxi or private car. The basics of pickups are fairly straightforward, wait till it is reasonably full before heading out. On well-travelled routes (Mandalay-Pyin U Lwin, for example), they fill up quickly and the journey is quick. On less well-travelled routes ([[Bhamo]]-[[Katha]], for example), passengers arrive (early, usually around 06:00), mark their place, and then hang around drinking tea and chatting until the truck fills up. When the pick-up does get moving, it may linger or go out of its way in the hope of picking up more passengers. The inside of a pick-up can be hot and uncomfortable. Passengers, packed in like sardines, face away from the windows (which are tiny) and into the truck. Standing on the running board can be tiring and tough on the arms. The window side seat next to the driver is very comfortable and well-worth the little extra that you have to pay, so it is best to go early and reserve that seat. === By car === [[File:20160729 traffic in Mandalay 5761.jpg|thumb|Busy street in Mandalay]] You can hire a private car and driver at reasonable rates to tour independently. The licensed guides at Shwedagon Paya in Yangon can arrange to have a driver with a car meet you at your hotel. Another way is to arrange for a car through a travel agency, though it can be quite expensive. You can "test" the driver and the car by driving around the city for 10 or 15 minutes. If you are satisfied, a departure date and time and per diem rates (inclusive of petrol) can be negotiated. Some guides are willing to travel with you to serve as interpreters. Traffic drives on the '''right''' in Myanmar, but confusingly, Myanmar has a mixture of left- and right-hand-drive cars, with the majority of vehicles being right-hand-drive as a result of being second-hand imports from Japan or Thailand. Road travel to tourist destinations is generally safe, although some roads may be rough. Highways are often 2-lane, and cars often pass one another recklessly. That being said, driving habits are not quite as aggressive as say, [[Vietnam]]. Allow two days to drive from Yangon to Bagan in fair weather. Pyay is a good stopover point. Allow a day to drive from Bagan to Inle Lake. In cities, it is considered illegal to cross an amber light without stopping. Despite having crossed 3/4 of the way, you will be required to stop in the middle of the road and make your way back in reverse! Accidents and fatalities are common. Night-time road travel is not recommended, and medical facilities are limited in rural areas. At government hospitals, bribes may be required for services. Make sure needles are new or carry your own. HIV is a major problem in Myanmar. ===By taxi=== All taxis (and by extension all vehicles for transport of people and goods) have red/white licence plates, while private vehicles have a black/white licence plate. Tourist agency-owned cars have a blue/white licence plate. ===By ride-hailing=== The main ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/mm/en/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former South-east Asian operations, including that of Myanmar. Uber's short-lived venture into Myanmar occurred just one year prior to its takeover by Grab. In common with Grab's operations elsewhere in Southeast Asia, cash is not required as you can use the Grab app to pay with your card, though cash remains readily accepted. === By motorbike === In Yangon, riding motorcycles is illegal. Mandalay's streets, on the other hand, are filled with them. === By bicycle === In many places you can easily rent a bicycle for about 1,500 kyat per day to move around in your own pace. Around Inle Lake, cycling is a relaxing way to get to the next village or lake viewpoint. Mandalay is laid out on a grid which makes it very easy to navigate while cycling. Tourists used to pedal bicycles around the sights of Bagan, across difficult sandy paths under the hot sun, however electric bicycles are now the norm. At around ten times the price of a conventional bicycle, they are well worth the money. === On foot === Cars and pedestrians may not follow the established rules, and crossing the road can be difficult. Drivers will almost never yield to pedestrians, even on striped pedestrian crossings. ==See== [[File:InleRowing.jpg|300px|thumb|Leg rowing, Inle Lake]] Myanmar has not been a popular destination in Southeast Asia as visitors have been largely deterred by the country's volatile politics and restrictions placed on travel. But the political and travel situation has been improving notably since 2015. The country is a true, unspoiled treasure trove, and should capture the imagination of anyone interested in culture and history. Walking around [[Yangon]] brings you back to the time of 19th-century British colonial rule. Sparkling-clean parks and temples stand side by side decayed colonial-style buildings and deep potholes. Its cultural and religious attractions, like the '''Shwedagon Pagoda''', add to the city's feel of exoticism, as do the smiles of the locals. Every street corner brings something new—and a short ferry over the river even gives you a glimpse of rural life in the country. Cities of cultural and historical interest close to Yangon are [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] with its Buddhist sights, the delta town of [[Twante]] known for its pottery, and the pilgrimage site of [[Kyaiktiyo]] with its gold-gilded rock balancing precariously over a cliff. It's definitely worth it to further explore the Bamar heartland. Unfortunately some outer fringes of the country are off-limits to foreigners, but it's always worth checking the latest situation with people on the ground as things move so fast that the Internet rarely if ever has correct information. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703742020).jpg|thumb|Pyin U Lwin]] The former city of [[Bagan]] is a gem, and gives a glimpse of what life in the 11th and 12th centuries here must have been like. Marco Polo described it as the "gilded city alive with tinkling bells and the swishing sounds of monks' robes". It is the largest and densest concentration of Buddhist temples, pagodas, stupas and ruins in the world. [[Mrauk U]] is a sleepy village today but its crumbling pagodas and temples remind of the early modern period, when it was the capital city of an empire involved in extensive maritime trade with Portuguese, Dutch, French and Arab traders. Within a daytrip from [[Mandalay]] is [[Inwa]], another former capital where ruins remain to remind visitors of its former glory. Also don't miss [[Pyin U Lwin]], a former British hill station with somewhat cooler temperatures. The country has its fair share of '''natural attractions'''. [[Inle Lake]] is popular with backpackers, and it is one of the few places that is starting to feel like a tourist trap. Still, a trip to Myanmar is not complete without a boat trip on the lake. It has a unique vibe with tribes living in stilt houses and paddling their traditional wooden boats with one leg. The country's long southwestern coastline also has a few '''beaches''', such as [[Chaung Tha]] and [[Ngapali]]. If you visit outside of the traditional holiday season, you might just have a beautiful white sand beach for yourself. Myanmar is a country inhabited with dozens of ethnic groups, but sites from the major '''independent Burmese kingdoms''' dating from the 9th century can be seen in sections of the country. ==Do== [[File:Chinlone Burma.jpg|thumb|Burmese men playing chinlone]] Myanmar is an excellent country for '''trekking'''. [[Kalaw]] is a centre for trekking, and has miles and miles of trails through mountains and hill tribe villages. [[Kengtung]] is also known for its hiking paths to hill tribe villages, while [[Hsipaw]] has some great treks to waterfalls. '''Birdwatching''' can be done around [[Inle Lake]]. Myanmar's national sport is '''chinlone''', played with a small rattan ball. The objective of the game is to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible without using one's arms or hands, and to do it as beautifully as possible. Spectacular '''scuba diving''' and unspoiled beaches abound in the Mergui Archipelago in [[southeastern Myanmar]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Myanmar kyat (official rates) | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;kyat | date=January 2025 | USD=2,100 | EUR=2,500 | GBP=2,800 | CNY=300 | THB=650 | SGD=1,530 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mmk-burmese-kyat xe.com]}} {{infobox|Currency Games |Myanmar is still predominantly a cash economy. However, ATMs are widespread. In a misguided attempt to fight rampant black marketeering, the Myanmar government has a habit of ''declaring notes to be worthless'': this happened first in 1964. In 1985, the 20, 50, and 100 kyat notes were withdrawn again and replaced with new kyat notes in the unusual denominations of 25, 35, and 75, possibly chosen because of dictator general Ne Win's predilection for numerology; the 75-kyat note was introduced on his 75th birthday. In 1987, the government demonetized the 25, 35, and 75 kyat notes with no prior warning, rendering some 75% of the country's currency worthless. A new series of 15, 45, and 90-kyat notes was issued, incorporating Ne Win's favourite number 9. The resulting economic disturbances led to serious riots and eventually the 1989 coup by General Saw Maung. The post-coup notes come in more normal denominations from 1–1,000 kyat, and this time the old ones remain legal tender, so far.}} Myanmar's currency is the '''kyat''', pronounced "chat". Prices may be shown locally using the abbreviation of '''K''' (singular or plural) or '''Ks''' (plural) either before or after the amount and depending very much on who is doing the sign writing. The ISO abbreviation is '''MMK'''. Wikivoyage articles will use ''kyat'' to denote the currency. ''Pya'' are coins, and are rarely seen since their value has become increasingly insignificant with even the largest 50 pya coin worth less than US$0.001. Banknotes of Myanmar are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 kyats. You may also come across 20, 10, 5, and 1 ''kyat'' and 50 ''pya'' banknotes. They are valid but rarely found and best held onto as souvenirs. Older banknotes in strange denominations are sold to tourists and, while typically genuine, are rarely if ever valuable. The notes of 50 kyat, 100 kyat, 200 kyat, and 500 kyat are usually in a horrible condition, but are generally accepted when making small purchases. The 1,000 kyat notes are slightly better. 5,000 and 10,000 kyat notes always appear new after exchanging foreign currencies. When exchanging money, check that the banknotes you receive are in a generally good condition. If the exchange gives you kyat notes in horrible condition, you can ask them to exchange them for notes in better condition. Dispose of remaining kyat before leaving. Outside of Myanmar, kyat is almost worthless but do make nice souvenirs. Kyat cannot be legally exchanged abroad, though some money changers in places with large overseas Burmese populations such as [[Singapore]] will exchange anyway, but at terrible rates. Kyat can be exchanged on departure from Yangon Airport at decent rates. ====US dollars==== {{infobox|Is it safe?|So, you're travelling around carrying hundreds, if not thousands, of U.S. dollars stuffed into your pockets in a country where most people subsist on a few dollars a day. Everyone around you knows that if they could get their hands on the money in your pockets, they will be rich for life. What, you may ask, are the odds that someone will try to relieve you of your money? The answer: almost nil. There have been very few instances of a tourist being mugged and only the rare cases of pilfering. Myanmar is an extremely safe country for travellers. Some say it is because of the nature of the people. Others say it is because the punishment for robbing from a foreigner is draconian, whilst others say it is because of Buddhism, which prohibits people from taking what is not given.}} Foreigners are no longer required to pay in U.S. dollars for hotels, tourist attractions, rail and air tickets, ferry travel and for bus tickets. As of 2015, foreign currency instability and the weakening kyat means that many venues will state prices in U.S. dollars, even though it is illegal to do so. Expat restaurants still often quote in U.S. dollars despite actions from the Central Bank prohibiting excess dollar usage. It is illegal for a Myanmar citizen to accept (or hold) U.S. dollars without a licence, but this law is mostly ignored and U.S. dollars are generally accepted. Never insist, though, because it may be dangerous for the receiver. Bring very clean, unfolded U.S. dollars (or they will not be accepted by hotels, restaurants and money changers). Even small imperfections can be cause to reject a U.S. banknote. Keep all U.S. dollars in impeccable condition, and do not fold them. If you do end up with a few, try using them for purchases rather than exchange, or try to exchange them in a few different places. ====ATMs==== There are plenty of ATMs all across the country accepting international Visa and MasterCard. The bigger and more touristic the place the more ATMs it has. Smaller tourist destinations also have ATMs (Bagu, Hpa-An, etc.), but not so many. Make sure to carry a buffer outside of major tourist hotspots. If an ATM does not work, try the next one. Usual withdrawal limit is 300,000 kyat with a processing fee of 5,000 kyat. In case you run out of money, ask your taxi driver to drive you to the CB Bank ATM. '''Note''': Your bank may refuse to process ATM transactions with some/all banks in Myanmar, even if the ATM accepts Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank prior to entering the country. ====Credit cards==== Upmarket tourist places (hotels, agencies, restaurants) are accepting credit cards (and will surcharge accordingly). So you can even pay with mastercard in a store in the middle of Inle Lake for purchases value more than US$100. But nonetheless paper money is the only way to pay in most places. Beside the ATMs, there are places (e.g. hotels in Yangon) where cash can be obtained with a credit card (''cash advance''), but the rates are extremely uncompetitive (with premiums certainly no lower than around 7%, and with quotes of 30% and more frequently reported). Also, they may need to see your passport to process the transaction. For US citizens, it is also possible to receive funds from friends or relatives in an emergencies through the US Embassy. ====Money exchange==== The foreign currency of choice in Myanmar is the US dollar, though you can readily also exchange euros and Singapore dollars in Yangon and Mandalay, but perhaps not beyond. Other options are the Chinese Yuan and Thai Baht. The best rates are in Yangon and Mandalay. Major foreign currencies need to be in good condition—other currencies like rupees and baht are often accepted even if worn out. The military junta re-imposed currency controls in 2021, again leading to a yawning gap between the official rate (fixed at 2100 kyat/dollar) and the black market rate, which ranged from 3,400 to 5,600/dollar in 2024. Banks and money changers only sell kyat at the official rate. Exchanging on the '''black market is illegal''': sellers risking jail time and the junta periodically cracks down. Especially on holidays and Sundays, all your necessary money should be changed at the airport as banks in town are closed. Money changers offer significantly lower rates (5-10% lower) for changing US dollars and euros. The most hassle-free option is to change all your required money at the airport, depending on the rate to change it back. Look around different banks for the best exchange rate. Be sure to bring a mix of foreign denominations when visiting Myanmar because money changers will sometimes not give change and smaller notes (in good condition) are useful for some entry fees and transport. Even though, larger bills give the best exchange rates at banks. Ensure that foreign notes are: * Unmarked – No stamps, anti-counterfeit pen, ink or any other mark on them at all. Pencil can be removed with a good eraser, but any permanent marks will greatly decrease a note's value and ability to be exchanged. * Fresh, crisp and as close to brand new as possible – Moneychangers have been known to reject notes just for being creased and/or lightly worn. * Undamaged – No tears, missing bits and pieces, holes, repairs or anything of that sort. * Preferably of the new design, with the larger portrait, and the multiple-colour prints. Although, old-style US$1 are still commonly traded. * For US$100 bills, have no serial numbers starting "CB". This is because they are associated with a counterfeit "superbill" which was in circulation some time ago. '''Scams''': * There are a number of tricks and scams running around Myanmar trapping tourists who are carrying US dollars. Sometimes, guesthouses or traders will try and pass you damaged or nonexchangeable bills in change. Always inspect all notes when making a purchase and request that the vendor swap any notes you think you will have trouble using down the track—this is perfectly acceptable behaviour for both vendors and customers, so don't be shy. * Some money changers will also attempt sleight of hand tricks to either swap your good banknotes for damaged, or lower denomination notes. Other reports suggest that the kyats may be counted and then somehow, some disappear from the table during the transaction. For example, after going through an elaborate counting process for piles of ten 1,000 kyat notes, some money changers will pull some notes out as they count the piles of ten. * When changing money, be sure that, after any money is counted, it is not touched by anyone until the deal is sealed. Also do not allow your dollars or major foreign currencies to be removed from your sight until all is agreed; in fact, it is not even necessary to pull out your US dollars until your are paying for the kyats you received. It sounds extreme, but ending up in a country where you cannot access whatever savings you have, and having a good portion of your budget rendered useless (until you get to more relaxed changers in Bangkok) can really put a dampener on your plans. ====Travellers cheques==== Travellers cheques are '''not accepted''' in Myanmar. The only exception might be some especially shady money changer, but be prepared to pay an astronomical commission (30% is not uncommon). ===Shopping=== When visiting tourist attractions, you will likely be swarmed by local hawkers, many of them children, trying to sell you souvenirs. Be sure to [[Bargaining|bargain]] hard should you decide to buy from them. Owing to decades of repressive military rule, a great many service and travel-oriented companies have strong links to the military. These are vital ways for the military to earn money, particularly foreign currency. If you wish to avoid spending money at military-owned or military-associated businesses, download the [https://waywaynay.com/ Way Way Nay Boycott app]. ====Tipping==== Tipping is generally not practised by the Burmese themselves. However, given widespread poverty in the country, tips are certainly appreciated if you have been provided with exemplary service. Tips that are charged to a credit card almost never make it to the service staff, so if you wish to tip, make sure you hand it over in cash to the person who served you. ====Costs==== Despite being less developed, Myanmar is expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or Vietnam. This is particularly true of hotel prices in the main tourists areas, as demand far outstrips supply. Similarly, the lack of competition from budget airlines has also made domestic flights rather expensive. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703766279).jpg|thumb|Night market in Pyin U Lwin]] It's not possible to be comfortable on less than US$25/day (May 2013). Foreigners will likely be charged fees, including video camera, camera, entrance, parking and zone fees. Most managed tourist site charge for carrying cameras of any sort into the area. Double rooms with private bathroom are nearly always more than US$20, in Yangon a double room without bathroom costs US$20. Dorm beds are around US$10 (or US$8 if you accept to lose a lot of value) (Sep 2015). While you cannot save on accommodation, you can save on food. Street food can get as low as US$0.30 for 2 small curries with 2 Indian breads, US$1 for a normal (vegetarian) dish. Even in touristy places like Bagan dishes cost under US$1 (vegetarian) and US$2 (meat). A draught Myanmar beer (5%) is around 600 kyat, a bottle of Myanmar beer (650 ml) is around 1,700 kyat, a bottle of Mandalay beer (6.5%, 650 ml) around 1,200 kyat. ====What to buy==== * '''Antiques''' – Purchasing antiquities and antiques in Myanmar is at best a legal grey area with the 2015 passage of the new Antiquities Law, and often illegal for any item over 100 years old. Penalties include prison and fines. It is recommended to avoid purchasing antiques as a tourist, unless you're willing to get an export permit from the Ministry of Culture on your way out and you have enough knowledge to avoid the fakes. Replicas and fakes are rife in Bogyoke market and other anitque stores frequented by tourists. It is against the law to export religious antiques (manuscripts, Buddhas, etc.) * '''Art''' – The Myanmar Art market has exploded, with local artists' works going for good values in Yangon and Mandalay. Visit the numerous galleries in Yangon to get a feel for available works. Art is often related to Buddhism and the difficult socio-political situation, as well as more traditional Victorian-influenced subjects like markets, old women smoking cigars, tribal members, and monks. There is a lot of cheap/mass-painted and derivative works at Bogyoke Market. * '''[[Gemstones]]''' – Myanmar is best known as for its [[jade]] and [[rubies]] (the granting of a license to the French over the ruby mines in [[Mogok]] was one of the causes leading to the Third Burmese War), and also produces some really fine [[sapphires]]. These can be obtained at a fraction of what it would cost in the West. There are a lot of fakes for sale amid the genuine stuff and, unless you know your gems, buy from an official government store or risk being cheated. Bogoyoke Aung San Market and the Myanmar Gems Museum in [[Yangon]] has many licensed shops and is generally a safe place for the purchase of these stones. The jade market in [[Mandalay]] is also worth a visit, where most of the jade is brought from the mines to be sold to merchants, and you can observe merchants haggling over the prices of both raw jade and various jade items in all stages of the production process. You can also purchase some jade trinkets yourself, but be prepared to haggle, and make sure you do your homework before buying or you risk getting ripped off. * '''Lacquerware''' – A popular purchase, which is made into bowls, cups, vases, tables and various items, and is available almost anywhere. The traditional centre of lacquerware production is [[Bagan]] in [[Central Myanmar]], and most tours include a stop at one of the local lacquerware factories where you can purchase one of these. Beware of fraudulent lacquer ware, though, which is poorly made, but looks authentic. As a guide, the stiffer the lacquer, the poorer the quality; the more you can bend and twist it, the finer the quality. * '''Tapestries''' – Known as ''kalaga'', or ''shwe chi doe''. There is a long tradition of weaving tapestries in Burma. These are decorated with gold and silver thread and sequins and usually depict tales from the Buddhist scriptures (the ''jatakas'') or other non-secular objects from Burmese Buddhism (mythical animals, the ''hintha'', and the ''kalong'' are also popular subjects). The tapestry tradition is dying out but many are made for tourists and are available in Mandalay and Yangon. Burmese tapestries don't last long, so be warned if someone tries to sell you an antique ''shwe chi doe''! * '''Textiles''' – Textiles in Myanmar are stunning. Each region and each ethnic group has its own style. Chin fabrics are particularly stunning. They are handwoven in intricate geometric patterns, often in deep reds and mossy greens and white. They can be quite pricey, perhaps US$20 for the cloth to make a longyi (sarong). ==Eat== [[File:Outdoor café, Yangon, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Outdoor café in Yangon]] Burmese food is influenced by that of India and China, yet unique. Apart from Burmese food, other ethnic traditional foods such as Shan food, Rakhine food, and Myeik food are also distinct. Rice is at the core of Burmese food, and good vegetarian food is widely available. Burmese food is often extremely pungent. Similar to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, '''fish sauce''' (ငံပြာရည် ''ngan bya yay'') is a very popular condiment in Myanmar, and is used to flavour many dishes. Food is inexpensive at most restaurants (priced at 500–3,000 kyat per item at most local restaurants, but can go as high as 8,000 kyat at posh restaurants). There are many up-market restaurants in Yangon and Mandalay. The majority of low-to-mid-priced restaurants use a cheap blend of palm oil for cooking. This oil may be unhealthy, and common roadside restaurants should be avoided if you are at the slightest risk for hypertension, heart disease, or other fat- or cholesterol-related conditions. Higher class restaurants may use peanut oil instead. Specific dishes include: [[File:Chapati and mutton curry.JPG|thumb|Chapati and mutton curry]] * '''Curry''' &ndash; Burmese people have a very different definition of curry than other countries. It is very spicy compared to Indian and Thai options, and although you may find it served at room temperature in cheaper restaurants, in a typical Burmese home all curry dishes are served hot. Burmese curry does not contain coconut milk, unlike its other SE Asian counterparts, and has a large quantity of onion or tomato depending on region and cook's preference. Myanmar is the highest per-capita consumer of onions in the world. Quite often Burmese curries are cooked with lots of oil, much more than other regional curries. * '''Samosa thoke''' (samosa salad) &ndash; A popular street dish of chickpeas, potatoes, tomato, cabbage, mint and a smashed samosa. * '''Mohinga''' (pronounced ''mo-HIN-ga'') &ndash; A dish of rice vermicelli with fish chowder, usually accompanied by coriander and chili powder. Its taste can range from sweet to spicy, and is usually eaten at breakfast. It is considered by many to be the national dish, and is widely available throughout the country, albeit in different styles in different regions. * '''Mote lin-mayar''' (Couples snacks) &ndash; Small tiny pancakes with chives, chickpeas or quail eggs. * '''Sticky rice''' &ndash; Served plain or with turmeric or black rice * '''Nan Gyi Thoke''' (pronounced ''nan gyi thou'') &ndash; A special dish of rice noodle salad with chicken sauce. It is mostly eaten in mid-Myanmar. * '''Onnokauswe''' (pronounced ''oun-NO-kao-sui'') &ndash; A dish of thicker noodles in a thick soup of coconut milk with chicken. It is served with a variety of condiments accompanying it, ranging from fried fruit fritters to solidified duck blood. "Khao soi"("noodle" in Shan), often found on the streets of Chiang Mai, is derived from this Burmese counterpart. It is also comparable to the spicier laksa often found in peninsular SE countries like Malaysia and Singapore. * '''Shan food''' &ndash; The Shan are an ethnic group who inhabit Shan State around Inle lake, near the Thai border. Their food is marvelous. It can be found in Yangon easily. :* '''Shan tofu''' &ndash; Made with mung beans instead of soya beans these yellow blocks are served fried or in a cold noodle salad. :* '''Laphet thote''' (pronounced ''la-peh THOU'') &ndash; A salad of fermented tea leaves and a variety of fried nuts. It is commonly mixed with sliced lettuce, and is eaten with rice. * '''Chinese food''' &ndash; Available in most cities and usually authentic, if plain. * '''Kachin food''' &ndash; Mainly available in Kachin State, though a number of Kachin restaurants can be found in Yangon and Mandalay. Kachin food is less oily and uses less MSG than Burmese food, and you may find it a good alternative if Burmese curries are not to your liking. == Drink == '''Tap water''' in Myanmar is not safe to drink, however factory-made ice in restaurants and other shops is OK. '''Bottled water''' is readily available. You can also safely drink from the many clay jars dotted around the country, or find safe drinking water in temples. Just look for the large steel tanks with cups tied to the spigots. Water in the clay jars is filtered and many Myanmar people use them. Owners of the jars fill them up with water as a way to make merit. Similar to Chinese tea, ''Yenwejan'' is usually provided free at restaurant tables. While not flavourful, it is boiled water, and so safe to drink (do not drink plain water - even in restaurants - unless it is bottled water). Dried tea leaves similar to Laphet thote's tea leaves (except these are wet) are added to the boiled water to give ''Yenwejan''. Be sure to order it with ''Laphet thote'' (customary/good combination). '''Milk tea''' (လက်ဖက်ရည် ''La-Phet-Yay'') is also popular in Myanmar and widely available in the local markets and teahouses but beware: the Burmese like their milk teas very, ''very'' sweet. '''Alcohol''' is frowned upon by conservative Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, but consumed widely, mostly among men. Myanmar Beer is most popular in the country. Other variants, including Mandalay Beer exist. However, many of such companies are government-owned and/or have links to the drug trade. '''Toddy juice''' (''ta-YEI'') is popular in central Myanmar, and is made from fermented palm sugar. An alcoholic drink popular in the Shan State is '''Shwe le maw''', and is reportedly very strong. It is also possible to buy full strength Beer Chang imported from Thailand; exports to most countries are not nearly as strong. Beware of alcoholic drinks served in the far northern states. The locals refer to it as '''alcohol which does not burn''' when lit, and it is widely suspected to be an opiate concoction rather than a fermented beverage. There are a lot of nightclubs, including those attached to the five star hotels (e.g. Grand Plaza), and also local entertainment centres (e.g. JJs, Asia plaza). === Teahouses === [[File:Myanmar Tea House Food.jpg|thumb|Tea and snacks at a tea house]] Teahouses are important places of social gathering and popular throughout the country. They look like restaurants but if you watch closely you will notice that people are drinking a lot of Chinese tea (free), light brown tea and are mainly snacking. Some teahouses also offer simple dishes as fried rice or noodles. Once seated they will expect you to order coffee but that's not what you should go for as it is almost always instant coffee. Order tea, a type of black tea with milk that differ in strength and sweetness: *''bone mahn'': balanced *''cho seh'': sweet *''kyaw p'daung'': sweeter *''pan brown'': bitter and sweet *''jah hseent'': light, with milk, not strong *''pancho'': strong *''bow hseent'': less strong *''noe hseent dee'': milk tea without sugar You will completely mispronounce the tea names (second and sixth are relatively easy) and people might not get what you want at all since it's rare for foreigners to order these teas. So it's better to ask your hotel or any local speaking English to write down the names in Burmese. Since you are a foreigner they will assume that you want your tea ''sheh'' - special - which means it will come with condensed milk. It's also possible to order a ''tankie'' and so the tea will come in a big pot. A simple cup of tea costs 200-400 kyat. Small snacks like samosas, cakes or sweet balls are readily available at the table. If not, ask. At the end you will only pay for the number of pieces eaten. Foodies should check out the type of snacks before deciding on a teahouse. It is not impolite at all to bring your own food, as long as you order at least ''something''. == Sleep == [[File:Sule-Pagoda by-Night.jpg|thumb|Night in Yangon]] Myanmar has good hotel accommodation, particularly in major cities and the main tourist areas, though prices are substantially higher than in [[Thailand]] or [[Vietnam]]. Rooms with attached bath are available for under US$10 everywhere except Yangon and with shared bath for anywhere from US$3–6 in most places. Almost every hotel licensed for foreigners has running hot water (though, in remote areas, availability may be restricted to certain hours of the day). Hotels, with a few exceptions, are usually clean. At the budget end, sheets and blankets may be threadbare and the rooms may be poorly ventilated. A few low-end hotels, particularly in Yangon and other large cities, specialize in cubicle rooms, small single rooms with no windows which, while cheap and clean, are not for the claustrophobic. Rates are quoted as single/double, but the rooms are usually the same whether one person or two stay in the room, making good hotels a real bargain if travelling as a couple. Except at the top-end, breakfast is always included in the price of the room. The tourism boom in Myanmar has left its infrastructure struggling to cope with the increased numbers of visitors. Hotel rooms tend to sell out really fast, and those in popular tourist destinations often sell out months in advance. As a result of the lack of supply, prices have also increased substantially. You should make your hotel bookings well in advance of your planned trip to Myanmar in order not to be stranded when you arrive. Wild camping is not legal in Myanmar. Myanmar has a problem providing enough electricity to its people and power supply is severely restricted everywhere. In many places, electricity may be available only for a few hours each evening or, in some cases, only every alternate evening. If you don't want to spend your nights without a fan or air conditioning, ask if the hotel has a generator (most mid-priced hotels do). On generator nights, the air conditioning in your room may not work (the price is usually lower as well). Even if a hotel has a generator, there is no guarantee that it will be used to provide you electricity at the times you require, so be ready for blackouts at any time of day or night. Major tourist hotels in Yangon and Mandalay have near-uninterrupted electricity supply, but can cost anywhere from US$80–300 per night. At the top-end, Myanmar has some excellent hotels including one or two great ones (The Strand in Yangon and Kandawgyi Palace Hotel in Yangon). The Myanmar government runs many hotels, including some beautiful colonial era ones (though not the two listed in the previous sentence). A percentage of all accommodation payments goes to the government, no matter where you choose to stay, and it is not possible to run a successful business in Myanmar without some relationship or payment arrangement with the military. == Work == {{overseasjobscam|Myanmar, particularly in the areas along the Thai border. In many cases, victims are lured to Thailand with a job offer, then trafficked across the border into Myanmar}} Work in Myanmar for foreigners is hard to come by. NGOs and other aid groups operate in the capital and remote rural areas but may require specific skill sets to hire you. Another option is European and Asian companies, mostly operating on a small scale. Teaching English is feasible in private schools but many foreigners have reported unreasonable contracts, such as withholding pay and refusing to pay those who resign early. The education ministry only hires citizens with teaching certification. If you would like to work and assist Burmese refugees, certain NGOs work in neighbouring [[Thailand]]. == Stay safe == === Crime === The government punishes crime, particularly against tourists, severely; as a result, as far as crime and personal safety go, Myanmar is extremely safe for tourists, and it is generally safe to walk on the streets alone at night. In fact, you are less likely to be a victim of crime in Myanmar than in [[Thailand]] or [[Malaysia]]. However, as with anywhere else, little crime does not mean no crime and it is still no excuse to ditch your common sense. As a foreigner, the most common crime you should be worried about is petty theft, so keep your belongings secured. Physical and verbal harassment towards foreigners is uncommon, even on urban walks near bars. Since 2005, [[Yangon]] and [[Mandalay]] have seen a barely perceptible rise in the very low level of street robberies. There were isolated bombings in 2005 in Mandalay and Yangon, and in 2006 in [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]. === Illegal substances === {{Warningbox|Drug offences are '''''severely punished''''' by the Burmese authorities. Convicted offenders can expect to face lengthy prison sentences. |us = https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Burma.html |canada = https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar }} ===Begging=== Despite traditional taboos against it, [[begging]] has become a major problem in the main tourist areas such as [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] and [[Bagan]]. Children and "mothers" carrying babies are often the ones who beg as they are more effective at soliciting pity. Most beggars are part of larger begging syndicates or just after easy money, as tourists are usually seen to be rich. In addition, the poor can always obtain food for free from the nearest monastery if they can't afford to pay for it, so begging is not necessary for their survival. If you choose to give, note that most Burmese earn only US$40 a month doing manual labour and so giving US$1 to a beggar is ''very'' generous. ===Fake monks=== Theravada Buddhism is the main religion in Myanmar, and it is customary for monks to go on alms rounds in the morning. Unfortunately, there are also many bogus monks who hang out around the main tourist attractions preying on unsuspecting visitors. Alms rounds are solely for the purpose of collecting food: genuine monks are forbidden from accepting, or even touching money. Monks are forbidden from eating after noon, and are also not allowed to sell items or use high pressure tactics to solicit donations. Authentic monks are often found in single file lines with their alms bowls. If you see a single monk requesting money from foreigners he is a fraud. === Corruption === Myanmar is one of the world's most corrupt countries. Officials and other civil servants may discreetly ask you for a bribe, or invent issues (missing forms, closed offices, etc.) in order to get you to suggest one. Pretending not to understand or asking to speak to a superior may work. However, white visitors are rarely targeted, while those of Asian descent (including South Asians and East Asians) may be forced to give bribes, but the brunt of the problem hits normal Burmese. Westerners are very rarely asked for bribes, although most bribes are a US dollar or less, and requested by people earning as little as US$30/month. === Driving conditions === [[File:Jampacked car in Kalaw (Myanmar 2013) (11773361556).jpg|thumb|One of many right-hand drive vehicles imported from Japan into Myanmar. These cause inherent visibility problems when driving on the right side of the road]] The poor road infrastructure, and a mixture of extremely ancient vehicles on the country's roads are all what best describe the road conditions. However, driving habits are not very aggressive compared to say, [[Vietnam]], which does make the safety of the roads comfortable for almost everyone. Although rare, youths sometimes compete against each other on the roads, which has led to some casualties over the past few years. Bus drivers are among the worst dangers, although this is somewhat less of an issue since 2010 due to new, very harsh penalties imposed on bus drivers involved in accidents. Surprisingly, Burma has a mixture of both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, with the majority being right-hand drive (used imports from Japan) but driving is generally done on the right side of the roads. Unless you have experience driving in countries with poorly disciplined drivers and very shabby vehicles, try to avoid driving in Myanmar; alternatively, arrange for a local driver to take you around. === Civil conflict === Various insurgent groups continue to operate in the '''Mon, and Chin (Zomi), states''' of Myanmar, along the Thai and Chinese borders. Travel to these regions generally requires a government permit. The government also sometimes restricts travel to '''Kayah State, Rakhine State, and Kachin State''' due to insurgent activity. However travel is entirely unrestricted to the districts of Yangon, Bago, Ayeyarwady, Sagaing, Taninthayi, Mandalay, and Magwe. Some areas that have been reported as closed have become open without notice, and areas previously regarded as open can become closed with no warning. In addition, local immigration offices may have their own interpretations of regulations. === Politics === [[File:Propaganda, Myanmar 2.jpg|thumb|"Tatmadaw [Armed Forces] and the people in eternal unity. Anyone attempting to divide them is our enemy."]] Myanmar is again under harsh military rule as it was from 1962 - 2012, with a reputation for repressing dissent, as in the case of the house arrest of democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi. There used to be more than 1,500 political prisoners (sentences of 65 years and hard labor in remote camps were given to leaders of the Saffron Revolution), although some have been released. When in Myanmar, abstain from political activities and don't insult the government. Discuss politics, if you must, with people who have had time to get a feel for you. The danger, however, is primarily posed to those you speak with, so let them lead the conversation. Also, realize that many phone lines are tapped. And if you absolutely must wave a democracy banner on the street, you'll simply find yourself on the next outbound flight. Between 2012–2020, liberty in general increased under the new government. A few politically critical articles have been published in government newspapers and a satirical film deriding the government's film censorship policy has been released, neither of which would have been possible even in 2010. Returning visitors to Myanmar may find that locals have become ever so slightly more open to discussions regarding politics. However, under any circumstances avoid doing things that might make the military or police feel uncomfortable, such as taking pictures of police and police buildings or vehicles. == Stay healthy == Hygiene in Myanmar may seem terrible to the average Westerner but it is possible to stay healthy with some basic precautions such as prophylactic medication, care choosing food and water, and antibacterial ointment. '''Never drink [[tap water]]'''. Restaurants are legally required to use ice made and sold by bottled water companies, so ordering ice is usually safe in major places. Always drink bottled water and check that the cap is sealed on, not simply screwed on. Diseases such as [[dengue fever]], [[Japanese encephalitis]] and [[malaria]] are endemic. Drug-resistant strains of malaria and tuberculosis are common in many areas. Hepatitis vaccinations are highly recommended and the cholera oral vaccine is worthwhile. At the dinner table, Burmese use a spoon and fork, or their fingers when this is more convenient. You might feel better rinsing all of them before meals. Antibacterial wipes or alcohol hand-rub is a good idea at regular intervals. As in many developing countries: "if you can't fry, roast, peel or boil it - then forget it". ===HIV=== The rate of HIV infection in Myanmar is high by Western and Asian standards (0.7% of the population in 2019). ===Healthcare=== Myanmar's healthcare system is poorly funded. If you should fall sick in Myanmar, you can visit the doctor in major cities for minor ailments. However, for more serious medical care, hospital conditions tend to be unsanitary and there is often a shortage of medical supplies. The only hospital that comes close to modern developed standards is Pun Hlaing Hospital, a privately owned hospital which is in a remote township of Yangon called Hlaing Thar Yar, and one should expect very high expenses there. Most of the hospitals are government owned, which means poorly funded. Most of the government officials and rich locals go to [[Thailand]] or [[Singapore]] for more serious medical treatment and hospitalisation, and you will be better off doing so too. Make sure you get travel insurance as arranging to be airlifted in an emergency is rather costly. The clinic formerly operated by the Australian Embassy in Yangon closed in 2018. There is a good [https://myanmarmix.com/en/directory/international-sos-clinic-yangon international medical clinic] at the Inya Lake Hotel in Yangon for consulting, testing, radiology and minor surgery. == Respect == {{infobox|Naming conventions|Unlike in many other cultures, there is generally no concept of a family name, patronymic or matronymic in Burmese culture, and most individuals only have a given name. For example, the 8th President, '''Htin Kyaw''', only has a given name with no family name, patronymic or matronymic, and would be addressed as Mr Htin Kyaw by most English speakers. Often, a Burmese honorific, usually '''U''' (ဦး) for men or '''Daw''' (ဒေါ်) for women, may be added to the beginning of the name, so he may be addressed as ''U Htin Kyaw''.}} [[File:Mrauk U - 0002.jpg|thumb|400px|[[Mrauk U]], the old capital of Rakhine in Myanmar]] Modest clothing is highly appreciated everywhere except nightclubs, and practically required in religious places such as pagodas, temples and monasteries (of which there are thousands). Miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed in consecrated areas, where you also have to remove your footwear, so loafers and flip-flops that you can slip on and off at the entrance are preferable. Myanmar has some of the most stunning temples in Asia and you will be tempted to visit more than you think. In Myanmar, you have to remove your footwear before entering the entire temple complex, including in outdoor areas. You might want to bring some wet wipes so you can clean your feet after visiting. Burmese people generally do not engage in public display of affection, even among married couples, and it is generally considered distasteful and should be avoided. Both men and women wear a ''longyi'', a sort of sarong sold everywhere, and it is not unusual to see Caucasian foreigners walking around in them. They are wrapped in different ways for men and women, so find out how to tie yours. If you turn up at a temple in inappropriate dress, you can always rent a longyi for a pittance. When giving and receiving '''business cards''', always use your right hand with the palm facing up, and your left hand supporting your right elbow. As the left hand is traditionally reserved for dirty things, handling business cards with it is considered to be very rude. Tourists of Caucasian descent are commonly referred to as ''bo'', which translates to "officer", a linguistic relic of colonization. Address elders with ''U'' (pronounced "oo", as in s'''oo'''n) or "Uncle" for men, and ''Daw'' or "Auntie" for women. Generally speaking, despite the common negative perception of the government, most ordinary Burmese people are incredibly friendly and polite as long as you respect their local customs. Customer service is in general very good (some say better than in [[Thailand]]) but customer service staff are invariably poorly paid, so you might wish to tip service staff generously to ensure your money goes into the right hands. ===Politics=== Avoid discussing relations with the Rohingya and the ongoing ethnic cleansing as this is a very sensitive and emotive issue that can potentially escalate into a confrontation. The vast majority of Burmese people regard the Rohingya as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh who have no right to be in Myanmar, and their Muslim religion is seen by many as a threat to Buddhism. Most Burmese people are offended when the Rohingya are referred to as such, and will insist that you use the term "Bengali" to refer to them instead. Tread carefully when discussing relations with [[China]]. Even though both the military junta and Aung San Suu Kyi had developed close ties with China and invited Chinese investment in Myanmar's infrastructure, this is strongly opposed by many pro-democracy activists. While the pro-democracy view on China have largely improved due to alleged Chinese support towards anti-junta ethnic armed organisations, China's policy has equally dissatisfied or even angered pro-junta groups. ===Religion=== {{see also|Buddhism#Respect}} Buddhism is the largest religion in the country, followed by roughly 80-90% of the population. Many Burmese people are religious and fundamentalist Buddhism has seen growing support in the 21st century. As in neighbouring Thailand, monks collect alms in the morning and adhere to strict rules such as abstaining from physical contact with women and not touching money. It is customary for Burmese men to spend time living as a monk at least once in their lifetime. Donations to monks should be spontaneous and given in the form of food only, not money; monetary donations should be placed in donation boxes in temples. If you see a monk with money in his alms bowl, he is fake. Monks are not allowed to eat after noon, so if you see a monk going on alms round after noon, he is fake. Buddhist monks are highly respected, and it is essential to show them respect. Always ask for permission before taking a photograph or touching a monk. It is also important to behave appropriately in their presence. If you are on public transportation, it is customary to give up your seat for them as a sign of respect. Showing any form of disrespect to Buddhism is taken '''very seriously''' in Myanmar and you can expect to be treated with '''no degree of leniency''' if you've been accused of disrespecting Buddhism. Disrespecting Buddhism encompasses things like wearing something with Buddha on it, having a tattoo of Buddha, depicting Buddha in an inappropriate way, and so on. Foreigners have been jailed for disrespecting Buddhism, so be careful about what you say and what you do. Do not speak negatively about religion; it is illegal, under Burmese law, to "insult" religion. What counts as "insulting" religion is very broadly defined and open to interpretation. Refrain from engaging in religious discussions with the Burmese. Swastikas are commonly seen in Buddhist temples and '''should not''' be conflated with anti-Semitism and Nazism. ==Connect== === Telephone === Country Code: +95 International Call Prefix: 00 Phone numbers in Myanmar have the format <code>+95 1 234-5678</code> where "95" is the country code for Myanmar, the next one, two, three or four digits are the area code and the remaining 6, 7 or 8 digits are the "local" part of the subscriber number. You can buy GSM/4G sim cards at International airports or any convenience store. Standard sim card costs around 1500 Ks. Some operators may offer special sim for tourists. There are 4 mobile operators in Myanmar, MPT (Government+KDDI), Telenor, Ooredoo and MyTel (Military+VietTel). MPT in the largest in Myanmar in terms of network coverage and user. Operators offer similar price plans. Generally, standard plan offers voice calls for 20 Ks - 25Ks/min, SMS at 15 Ks - 20 Ks/message. Pay as you go data plan offers around 7 Ks/MB but specific data plan will offer around 1000 Ks/GB or cheaper. Prices for IDD and roaming service vary depending on the operators and destination countries. If you are going to use in urban area only for local call and data, there is not much difference between operators. If you are going to visit remote area, please check which operator is available at there. If you are going to use IDD or roaming, you may wisely choose by checking offering price at their websites. === Mail === International mail out of Myanmar is reportedly quite efficient, despite what some hotels might tell you. As elsewhere, there is always a risk if you send valuables as ordinary parcels. Use EMS for fast, and relatively cheap international parcels. === Internet === Country's telecommunication sector was revolutionized in 2013 and speed is steadily increasing and price become cheaper. As of 2020, free Wi-fi is available at almost every Hotels. Unlike other countries, Myanmar hugely rely on 4G Internet than cable or Wi-fi. Surprisingly, Yangon has 4th-fastest 4G speeds in East Asia despite the fact that it had slowest speeds in Asia before 2013. Seamless 4G Internet is available in every city, town and along major highway roads. Even a small village is likely to be covered with at least 3G Internet unless it is in highly remote or armed conflict area. Data costs are around 1000 kyat ($0.8)/GB. There are also cheaper fancy data plans depending on operators. MPT is largest mobile operator and Telenor is second. 4G sim cards are available at International airports and any convenience store. With the extended coverage of 4G and smart phones, once dominant Internet cafes are getting out of business and turn into gaming stations. In case of you need to access Internet urgently, you can use at those gaming stations but extensive file downloading is not welcome for it can effect their gaming experience. Facebook and Viber are the most used apps and services in Myanmar. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|22|96|zoom=5}} o3z1akalyycun0n6gbhnm3rhctitl6z 5091346 5091345 2025-07-11T10:45:15Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091346 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bagan (Myanmar) banner Sunset.jpg|caption=The temples of Bagan at dawn}} {{Warningbox| A nationwide state of emergency remains in force, with nighttime curfews enforced in many cities including Yangon. <!--- Mainland Chinese visitors should be extra careful due to hostility from protesters, and should avoid speaking Mandarin near protest venues.---> Avoid facilities and vehicles linked to security forces and military administration, monitor local media closely, and keep in regular contact with your embassy. Ethnic armed organisations are waging a large-scale offensive in [[Northern Myanmar|Northern]] and [[Eastern Myanmar]] from the Chinese-Myanmar border. Martial law is imposed in part of Shan State, and border crossings along the Chinese-Myanmar border are suspended. There are reports that the prices of many necessities is soaring. Many governments advise against all travel to Myanmar, though the main tourist circuit comprising of [[Yangon]], [[Mandalay]], [[Bagan]] and [[Inle Lake]] is far-removed from the violence and generally safe to visit — corroborated by the UK government's travel advice. A massive earthquake hit the area near Sagaing on 28th March 2025, and a state of emergency has been declared. The earthquake tremors could be felt as far as Hanoi, Vietnam. Many governments advise against all travel to Mandalay and nearby areas. |australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/myanmar |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/myanmar |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar |ie=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/myanmar-burma |sg=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/countries-regions/m/myanmar/travel-page |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/myanmar |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/burma-travel-advisory.html |lastedit=2025-03-31 }} '''Myanmar''' (မြန်မာ ''myanma''), or '''Burma''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]]. The country features awe-inspiring ancient temples, lively local markets, and captivating landscapes, such as unspoiled beaches, picturesque hills, and verdant forests. The genuine warmth of the Burmese people, combined with delectable cuisine, creates an ideal destination for gastronomes and culture aficionados alike. Since the 1960s, the country has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. For a considerable period, Myanmar has been afflicted with political instability, sectarian violence, corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and a prolonged history of colonial exploitation that paid scant attention to human development. == Regions == {{Regionlist | regionmap=Burma Regions Map.png | regionmapsize=425px | region1name=[[Southern Myanmar]] | region1items=''Ayeyarwady, Bago, Yangon'' | region1color=#CAA7C9 | region1description=The lowlands of the Irrawaddy Delta with the largest city and former capital Yangon. | region2name=[[Central Myanmar]] | region2items=''Magway, Mandalay, Naypyitaw'' | region2color=#E5B775 | region2description=Mandalay, historical and archaeological sites and cool hill towns. | region3name=[[Western Myanmar]] | region3items=''Rakhine, Chin'' | region3color=#A4C78A | region3description=Remote mountainous regions and some lovely beaches on the Bay of Bengal. | region4name=[[Northern Myanmar]] | region4items=''Sagaing, Kachin'' | region4color=#d17c82 | region4description=A huge, fractious region including the southern reaches of the Himalayas and many tribes. | region5name=[[Eastern Myanmar]] | region5items=''Shan, Kayah'' | region5color=#76AED2 | region5description=The infamous Golden Triangle and a bewildering number of ethnic groups. | region6name=[[Southeastern Myanmar]] | region6items=''Tanintharyi, Mon, Kayin'' | region6color=#DDE28E | region6description=The southern coastal stretch bordering Thailand with a vast number of offshore islands. }} == Cities == * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Naypyidaw]]|wikidata=Q37400}} (''formerly Pyinmana'') — newly designated capital of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]|wikidata=Q800122}} (''formerly Pegu'') — historic city near Yangon full of Buddhist sights * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kawthaung]]|wikidata=Q978611}} — beach town in the far south which is as much like Thailand as Myanmar gets * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mandalay]]|wikidata=Q185518}} — former capital of the Konbaung Dynasty built around the Mandalay Royal Palace and main commercial centre of Upper Myanmar * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mawlamyine]]|wikidata=Q685941}} (''Moulmein'') — capital of Mon State and the third largest city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pyin U Lwin]]|wikidata=Q1360318}} (''Maymyo'') — a cool town (in both temperature and attractions) which is a former British colonial hill station * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taunggyi]]|wikidata=Q1075566}} — capital of Shan State in the heart of the Golden Triangle * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Twante]]|wikidata=Q7857423}} — a delta town that is famous for pottery * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Yangon]]|wikidata=Q37995}} (''formerly Rangoon'') — the economic centre, known for its pagodas and colonial architecture == Other destinations == <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bagan]]|wikidata=Q29317}} — an archaeological zone with thousands of ancient pagodas near the banks of the Irrawaddy River, and a {{UNESCO}} * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Inle Lake]]|wikidata=Q1043461}} — a large shallow lake famous for boat trips, visiting floating villages inhabited by the Intha people, hiking, and also a source of excellent silk * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kengtung]]|wikidata=Q1027111}} — between [[Mong La]] (on the border with China) and [[Tachileik]] (on the border with Thailand) in the Golden Triangle, known for the ''Ann'' (black teeth people) and ''Akha'' tribes and trekking * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kyaiktiyo]]|wikidata=Q6450666}} — a gold-gilded rock sitting atop a cliff and a major pilgrimage site * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mount Popa]]|wikidata=Q1150764}} — an extinct volcano regarded as the Mount Olympus of Myanmar, a green oasis high above the hot plains and an easy day trip from Bagan * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mrauk U]]|wikidata=Q1951490}} — former capital of the Rakhine Kingdom, with many ancient pagodas that serve as a reminder of that era * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngapali]]|wikidata=Q19701446}} — beach resort in western [[Rakhine State]], on the Bay of Bengal * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngwe Saung]]|wikidata=Q7023181}} — longest stretch of beach in Ayeyarwaddy (English: Irrawaddy) Division, white sandy beach and crystal clear water are the features of Ngwe Saung Beach * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pyay]]|wikidata=Q691747}} — a town on the Irrawaddy River midway between Yangon and Bagan, known for its archaeological site ''Sri Kittara'', the ancient Pyu capital from 2 to 9 CE * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pathein]]|wikidata=Q870103}} — a river town in the Irrawaddy delta, known for manufacture of umbrellas, gateway to Chuang Tha and Ngwe Saung Beaches == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMyanmar.png}} === History === Like most of Southeast Asia's countries, Myanmar's people and history is a glorious mishmash of settlers and invaders from all fronts. The Mon and the Pyu are thought to have come from [[India]], while the now dominant Bamar (Burmese) migrated through [[Tibet]] and, by 849, had founded a powerful kingdom centred on [[Bagan]]. The ethnic diversity of the region, and the dominance of the Bamar people in the central plains, set up the geopolitical struggles between them and the multitude of smaller ethnic groups surrounding, which have continued unabated until the present day. From the 9th century to the 19th century, the Burmese empire grew through conquests of [[Thailand]] ([[Ayutthaya]]) and India ([[Manipur]]), and shrank under attacks from [[China]] and internal rebellions. [[File:Bago, Myanmar (Burma) - panoramio (44).jpg|thumb|Resting Buddha statue in Bago]] Eventually, [[United Kingdom|Britain]] conquered Burma over a period of 62 years (1824-1886) and incorporated it into its Indian Empire, and King Thibaw, the last Burmese monarch, was exiled to [[Ratnagiri]] in what is today [[India]]. Like in their other colonies, the British maintained control partly through a "divide and conquer" strategy, in which they deliberately stoked tensions between different ethnic and religious groups, resulting in ethnic and religious conflicts that have never been resolved. For example, bureaucrats were imported from India, and other government positions tended to be manned by locals from the smaller ethnic groups. Burma was administered as a province of India until 1937 when it became a separate colony. During the Second World War, Burma was a major battleground as the Allies fought the Japanese for dominance over Asia. The [[Burma Road]] was built to get supplies to China. The Thailand-Burma railway (the so-called "Death Railway") from [[Kanchanaburi]] in Thailand over the River Kwai to Burma was built by the Japanese using forced labour &mdash; Allied prisoners-of-war, indentured Thai labourers, Burmese people and other Southeast Asians. They had to work in appalling conditions and a great number of them died (estimated at 80,000) during construction of the railway. Large parts of Western Burma, particularly the hilly areas bordering India and the city of [[Mandalay]], were severely damaged during the war. Burmese independence fighters led by '''General Aung San''' cooperated with the Japanese to oust the British at first; the Japanese promised to grant independence to Burma in exchange. However, life under Japanese occupation was even more brutal than life under British colonialism, and many Burmese were killed, such as in the Kalagong massacre. Aung San subsequently switched allegiance and helped the allies win Burma back from the Japanese. Aung San subsequently led negotiations with the British for Burmese independence after the end of World War II, and the British agreed in 1947 to grant independence to Burma the following year, though Aung San himself was assassinated later in 1947 and never lived to see his dream come true. Independence from the British under the name '''Union of Burma''' was finally attained on 4 January 1948, and General Aung San is regarded by most Burmese people to be their father of independence. The new union brought together various states defined by ethnic identity, many of whom had centuries-long histories of autonomy from and struggles against each other. In the interest of securing their collective independence from Britain, the tribes reached an agreement to submit to collective governance—with power sharing among the ethnicities and states—for ten years, after which each tribe would be afforded the right to secede from the union. The terms of this "Pinlon Agreement" were enshrined in the 1947/1948 constitution of the new Union of Burma. The new central government of the nation quickly worked to consolidate its power, marginalising and angering tribal leaders and setting off ethnic armed conflict that has continued unabated until the present day. In 1961, more than 200 ethnic leaders from the Shan people, Kachin people, Red Karen, Karen people, Chin peoples, Mon people and Rakhine people met with ethnic Bamar (Burmese) central government authorities to draft a new form of government which would ensure the tribes both autonomy and self-determination within a federal system. [[File:Aung San Suu Kyi December 2011 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Aung San Suu Kyi]] The new government was never formed. Nevertheless, up until Ne Win's coup in 1962, Burma was regarded as one of the most developed and fastest growing economies in Asia, and widely touted as a contender to be the next Japan. Military leader General Ne Win led a coup d'état which ousted the democratically elected government in 1962, and installed himself as leader. General Ne Win dominated the government from 1962 to 1988, first as military ruler, then as self-appointed president, and later as political kingpin. Under Ne Win's rule, widespread corruption and nepotism led the Burmese economy into a downward spiral from which it has never fully recovered. Pro-democracy demonstrations in 1988 were violently crushed, with general Saw Maung taking over in a coup and installing the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) to rule the country, now renamed '''Myanmar'''. Multiparty legislative elections were held in 1990, with the main opposition party - the National League for Democracy (NLD) - winning a landslide victory (392 of 489 seats). But SLORC refused to hand over power, instead placing NLD leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi (daughter of national hero Aung San) under house arrest, which she has endured for 14 of the last 20 years. Today Myanmar, a resource-rich country, suffers from pervasive government controls, inefficient economic policies, and rural poverty. What was once one of the richest and most developed countries in Asia has since slumped into poverty due to widespread corruption. The junta took steps in the early 1990s to liberalise price controls after decades of failure under the "Burmese Way to Socialism," but had to reinstate subsidised prices on staples in the face of food riots, upon which the democracy movement grafted its agenda. The government called out troops and the rioters were defiant until the monks intervened: standing between both sides, they told everyone to go home and they did. The riots caused overseas development assistance to cease and the government subsequently nullified the results of the 1990 legislative elections. In response to the government's attack in May 2003 on Aung San Suu Kyi and her convoy, the [[USA]] imposed new economic sanctions against Myanmar, including bans on imports of products from Myanmar and on provision of financial services by US citizens. [[File:NLD Flag from car Yangon.png|thumb|A National League for Democracy supporter in Yangon]] The summer of 2007 was marked by demonstrations against the military government which were again brutally suppressed. The demonstrations started in August, apparently in an uncoordinated manner, as a protest against a stiff hike in the price of petrol, but morphed into a more serious challenge to the government after three monks were beaten at a protest march in the town of Pakokku. The monks demanded an apology but none was forthcoming and soon processions of monks with begging bowls held upside down filled many cities (including [[Sittwe]], [[Mandalay]] and [[Yangon]]). Yangon, particularly the area around Sule Pagoda in the downtown area, became the centre of these protests. While the monks marched, and many ordinary citizens came out in support of the monks, the world watched as pictures, videos, and blogs flooded the Internet. However, the government soon suppressed the protests by firing on crowds, arresting monks and closing monasteries, and temporarily shut down Internet communications with the rest of the world. This led the US, [[Australia]], [[Canada]] and the [[European Union]] to impose additional sanctions, some targeting the families and finances of the military leaders. [[File:Protesters against the military coup.jpg|thumb|Protesters demonstrating against the 2021 military coup]] Following elections in 2010, Burma began a process of liberalisation that has led to a reduction or removal of sanctions by many nations including the United States. In 2012, Aung San Suu Kyi was elected to the Burmese parliament and allowed to travel to Europe and North America. Censorship of foreign and local news was also suspended. In November 2015, Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won a landslide victory in the nationwide legislative elections and Htin Kyaw, a close ally of Aung San Suu Kyi, became president. In April 2016, Aung San Suu Kyi took office as State Counsellor, a post equivalent to prime minister, making her Myanmar's ''de facto'' head of government. In February 2021, the military once again took power in a coup d'état after a landslide victory by the NLD. Country-wide mass protests and a civil disobedience movement sprung up in the aftermath; protests were brutally crushed as the army killed hundreds of NLD supporters and democratic activists. Thousands of NLD and other pro-democracy politicians, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and community leaders were arrested. Peaceful protests still occur sporadically while other groups of protesters have taken up arms against the military regime, particularly in the border regions. Western countries have re-imposed economic sanctions on Myanmar as a result of the coup. As of mid-2024, the junta controls less than half of the area of the country, and Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) have been successfully mounting co-ordinated attacks with increasing confidence. However, this brutal civil war still has no end in sight. ===Culture=== Myanmar's culture is largely a result of Indian influences intertwined with local traditions and Chinese influences. This can be seen in the various stupas and temples throughout the country, which bear a distinct resemblance to those in northern India. As in neighbouring [[Thailand]], Theravada Buddhism is the single largest religion. 88% of the population follows these Buddhist practices, and even some of the most remote villages will have a temple for people to pray at. Other religions which exist in smaller numbers include Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Animism and ancestor worship can also be found around the country, especially in the more distant, hill tribe regions. One pre-Buddhist tradition that survives in Myanmar is the worship of the '''''Nats''''', or traditional Burmese spirits, and you will see many spirit houses throughout the country dedicated to their worship. Following the spread of Theravada Buddhism, the worship of the Nats was incorporated into Burmese Buddhism, and they are today regarded as subordinates of the Buddha. ===People=== [[File:Burmese people 01.jpg|thumb|Boys in Yangon with thanaka paste on their faces]] The dominant ethnic group in Myanmar is known as the Bamar, from which the original English name of the country, Burma, was derived. Besides the Bamar, Myanmar is also home to many minority ethnic groups and nationalities which have their own distinct cultures and languages. In addition to the native ethnic minorities, Myanmar is also home to ethnic Chinese and Indians whose ancestors migrated to Myanmar during the colonial period, most visible in the cities of Yangon and Mandalay. Myanmar is divided into fourteen administrative divisions, seven regions and seven states; generally speaking, the regions are Bamar-dominated, while the states are dominated by the respective ethnic minorities. The government has been condemned by other nations for violence against the Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, which borders Bangladesh. The government does not recognise them as citizens of Myanmar, but instead claims they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, a narrative embraced by the vast majority of Burmese despite the Rohingya's presence in Rakhine going back generations. Forced to flee to Bangladesh in large numbers, where they are also regarded as foreigners, many have lost their lives trying to seek refuge and work in Malaysia. Generally speaking, most Myanmar people are incredibly friendly and polite, and will do their best to make you feel welcome in their country. ===Politics=== Myanmar, officially the '''Republic of the Union of Myanmar''' (ပြည်ထောင်​စု သမ္မတ မြန်မာ​နိုင်​ငံတော်), is a presidential republic, with the president, who is appointed by the legislature, serving as both head of state and ''de jure'' head of government. He and his cabinet form the executive branch. The legislature is composed of the bicameral ''Pyidaungsu Hluttaw'' (Assembly of the Union), consisting of an upper ''Amyotha Hluttaw'' (House of Nationalities), and a lower ''Pyithu Hluttaw'' (House of Representatives). While a majority of the members of the legislature are popularly elected by the people, a quarter the seats are reserved for appointees from the military. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won a majority of seats in the 2015 election. As she is constitutionally barred from the presidency (by virtue of having married a foreigner), she instead served as the ''de facto'' head of government in the role of State Counsellor. As of February 2021, Myanmar is ruled by a military dictatorship. === Climate === Myanmar is considered to have 3 seasons. The hot season is usually from Mar–Apr. Temperatures then cool off during the rainy season from May–Oct. The peak tourism season is the cool season from Nov–Feb. Temperatures can climb as high as 36°C in Yangon in the hot season while in the cool season, noontime temperatures are usually a more bearable 32°C, with night temperatures falling to around 19°C. Mandalay is slightly cooler in the cool season, with temperatures falling as low as 13°C, while temperatures in the hot season can go as high as 37°C. Generally, Lower Myanmar, the area around Yangon, receives more rainfall than the drier Upper Myanmar (around Mandalay). In the highlands such as [[Inle Lake]] and [[Pyin U Lwin]], winter temperatures can fall below 10°C at night, while daytime temperatures tend to be very pleasant. Even in the summer, temperatures rarely climb above 32°C. Near the Indian border in [[Kachin State]], there are permanently snow-capped mountains. === Read === [[File:Haridaung-Mrauk U-Aussicht-06-Pagoden im Dunst-gje.jpg|thumb|View of Mrauk U]] * ''From the Land of the Green Ghosts'' by Pascal Khoo Thwe. A Cambridge-educated writer gives a touching account of his growing up as a Paduang-Hilltribe-Guyand in the difficult political environment before becoming a rebel. ({{ISBN|0007116829}}) * ''The Glass Palace'' by Amitav Ghosh. A novel that spans a century, from British conquest to the modern day. A compelling account of how a family adapted to the changing times; provides much insight into Burmese culture. * ''The River of Lost Footsteps'' by Thant Myint-U. Easily the most accessible history of Myanmar available. Read it before you go and you will marvel at how the once great and rich cities (like Martaban, Syriam, and [[Mrauk U|Mrauk-U]]) have become the dingy and smoky villages of today. ({{ISBN|0374163421}}) * ''The Trouser People'' by Andrew Marshall. The author follows in the footsteps of Victorian explorer, Sir George Scott. This book looks at lost British heritage as well as the Burmese tragedies occurring in the present. ({{ISBN|0140294457}}) * ''Finding George Orwell in Burma'' by Emma Larkin. The pseudonymous author, a journalist, posed as a tourist to travel around Myanmar in the early 2000s, before the government opened up the country to the world. She documents a country trapped in the past, attempts to distinguish sympathetic storytellers from police informants, and retraces Orwell's life in Myanmar, who went on to give the world the vocabulary to criticise the repressive police state which the country had since become. ({{ISBN|1594200521}}) * ''Burma Chronicles'' by Guy Delisle. A whimsical and humorous graphic novel about a family who moves to Yangon on assignment with an NGO in the mid-2000s. The protagonist, a stay-at-home dad, adapts to life in Burma with his infant son while his wife works long hours. An enjoyable and light read, this work does not dwell on human rights under the dictatorship, but rather focusses on the day-to-day life of the protagonist and the characters he meets. ({{ISBN|9781897299500}}) === Listen === * [https://insightmyanmar.org/ ''Insight Myanmar''] used to be a podcast about religion and spirituality, but it pivoted to providing news and interviews with experts following the military coup of February 2021. * ''[https://www.myanmarmusings.com/ Myanmar Musings]'' is the podcast of the [https://myanmar.anu.edu.au/ Myanmar Research Centre] at the Australian National University, Canberra. While much more academic than ''Insight Myanmar'', it still features interviews with a variety of experts on a range of historical and present-day topics relating to research on Myanmar. * [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-happening-in-myanmar/id1777519120 ''What's Happening in Myanmar''] is a news podcast that is useful for keeping up with the ever-changing political and military situation on the ground in Myanmar. === Holidays === * 4 January: Independence Day * January: Kayin New Year Day - 1st waxing of Pyatho * 12 February: Union Day * March: Full Moon Day of Tabaung * 27 March: Armed Forces Day * April: Thingyan (Burmese New Year) — the most important festival in Myanmar, in which people splash water at each other. Also known as the Water Festival, and similar to Songkran in neighbouring Thailand * May: Full Moon Day of Kason * July: Full Moon Day of Waso * October: Full Moon Day of Thadingyut * 19 July: Martyrs Day * November: National Day - 10 st waning of the moon of Tazaungmon * 25 December: Christmas Day === Units of measure === {{See also|Metric and Imperial equivalents}} Since 2013, Myanmar has begun adopting the '''metric system''' (SI), which is now used for weather reports, petrol prices, and speed limits, and ''new'' road signs. However, much usage of '''imperial system''' and the traditional '''Burmese units of measurement''' persist. Old road signs may use miles and miles per hour, and government websites inconsistently convert Burmese units to metric or Imperial. ===Tourist information === * [https://tourism.gov.mm/ Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website == Talk == {{see also|Burmese phrasebook}} [[File:Vendeurs de plantes médicinales vers Kyaiktiyo Paya.jpg|thumb|Burmese signs at a market]] The official language of Myanmar is '''[[Burmese phrasebook|Burmese]]''' (မြန်မာစကား ''mien ma za ga'') (known by the government as Myanmar), a Sino-Tibetan language related to Chinese and hence tonal (word pitch matters) and analytic (most words are one syllable long). It is written using the Burmese script, based on the ancient Pali script. Bilingual signs (English and Burmese) are available in most tourist spots. Numbers often are also written in Burmese script. Much vocabulary is derived from another ancient languages of Pali (at the time of Buddha) and [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]]. There are also many other ethnic groups in Myanmar such as the Mon, Shan, Pa-O, Rohingya and many others who continue to speak their own languages. While Burmese serves as the lingua franca in government-controlled areas, it may not be spoken at all in some separatist-controlled areas. There is also a sizeable ethnic Chinese community who speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] and/or various Chinese dialects. In Yangon, most of the Chinese are descendants from migrants from Fujian and Guangdong, and hence speak mainly [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]] or Taishanese, while in Mandalay, the Chinese are mostly descendants of migrants from Yunnan, and mainly speak the Yunnan dialect of Mandarin. Some areas are also home to various ethnic Indian communities who continue to speak various Indian languages. Myanmar is a former British colony and many Burmese understand at least some rudimentary English. Most well-educated upper class Burmese speak English fluently, while any educated Burmese will know at least the basics. Hotel and airline staff, as well as people working in the tourism industry generally speak a good level of English. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Myanmar.png|450px|thumbnail|right|Visa policy of Myanmar {{legend|#ED1C24|Myanmar}} {{legend|#22B14C|Visa free & eVisa}} {{legend|#FF7F27|eVisa (Business & Tourism)}} {{legend|#FFB583|eVisa (Business)}} {{legend|#FFC90D|eVisa (Tourism)}} {{legend|#ABABAB|Visa required in advance}}]] The visa situation in Myanmar is changing quickly and this has caused confusion even among immigration staff, and many guides and official websites are out of date. Check Wikipedia for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Myanmar visa policy]. ====Visa-free==== Citizens of the following countries may visit Myanmar without a visa for tourism provided they enter '''by air''', and their stay does not exceed the following number of days: *14 days: [[Brunei]], [[Cambodia]], [[Laos]], [[Philippines]], [[Thailand]] *30 days: [[Russia]], [[Vietnam]] Citizens of [[Singapore]] may visit Myanmar without a visa for up to 30 days regardless of mode of entry. These visa exemptions are strictly not extendable. All other travelers are required to apply for a visa in advance. ====E-Visa==== [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ E-Visa] are available for visitors from many countries, including most Western countries for US$50/tourist and US$70/business travelers (as of Jan 2020) through the [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ Myanmar Immigration's web-site], which take 3 days to process. However, there is also an express tourist e-Visa service available on the governments website for US$56 (rather than the standard US$50) taking 24 hr (though sometimes just a few hours). Check the e-Visa website for details on which nationalities this is available for. The visa is valid for 28 day for stays beginning up to 90 days from the date of issue, and is single entry only. In order to apply, you will need to upload a passport-sized colour photo, and payment which is only accepted by credit card. Permitted entry points are: Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, Nay Pyi Taw International Airport, and the longtail boat crossing from Ranong, Thailand at [[Kawthaung]] Tourist visas are valid for 3 months. The visa is valid for a stay of up to four weeks (from date of entry), although you can overstay if you are willing to pay a US$3 a day fee upon departure. Employment is ''not'' allowed on a tourist visa, and working runs you the risk of being arrested and deported. Successful applicants will also be issued an "Arrival Form", which will be stapled into your passport and must be presented on arrival in Myanmar, along with your passport containing the visa sticker. ====Visa on arrival==== As of October 2019, [http://www.mip.gov.mm/on-arrival-visa/ visas on arrival] are available for tourist and business visitors of some nationalities at Yangon, Mandalay and Naypyidaw airports. You must bring two passport-sized colour photos, and a letter of invitation from the company sponsoring your visa (for business visas). There is still some confusion at airports about this because official resources are not being updated to match changes but most tourists are not experiencing difficult- if you experience any insist you are eligible for a visa and ask for a senior staff member. Note: In August 2022 a directive from Myanmar to airline staff immediately (and inexplicably) suspended the Tourist Visa on Arrival for all nationalities. This has not been updated on government websites. Check well in advance at the check-in counter what the status is, and consider playing it safe with an e-visa. ====Visa at an embassy or consulate==== You can apply for all kinds of visas in a Myanmar embassy or consulate in many capitals and large cities around the world. See specific details like contacts, hours, etc. there&mdash;especially for [[Bangkok#Embassies|Bangkok]] and [[Chiang Mai#Consulates|Chiang Mai]] in Thailand, [[Delhi#Cope|Delhi]] in India, [[Hong Kong#Consulates|Hong Kong]] in China, and [[Washington, D.C.#Embassies|Washington D.C.]] in the US. Generally the visa application requires a completed visa form (available from the Myanmar embassy), a completed arrival form (again, from the embassy), a photocopy of the photo page from your passport, two passport-sized photos, proof of your occupation, and the applicable fee. === By plane === Myanmar's main international airport is located at '''[[Yangon]]''', the largest city and main economic centre. There are regular scheduled flights from Yangon to many major Asian cities. For travellers from outside the region, the easiest way to get into Myanmar will be to catch a flight from either [[Singapore]] or [[Bangkok]], both of which have large overseas Burmese populations, and are served by several daily flights into Yangon. Myanmar also has a second international airport at '''[[Mandalay]]''', which is served by several flights to the neighbouring countries. For a current list of airlines and destinations, see [https://www.yangonairport.aero/index.php/en/ Airport of Yangon]. The two main international airlines based out of Yangon are flag carrier '''[http://flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airines]''' and privately owned '''[http://www.maiair.com/ Myanmar Airways International]'''. ===By land=== Myanmar borders five countries: China, India, Bangladesh, Thailand and Laos. Foreigners are free to travel overland from Thailand into the Burmese heartland provided their Burmese visa is in order. Entering Myanmar from the other land border crossings, though, is a different story. At the very least, you must apply for special permits in advance, and you may need to join a guided tour in order for the permit to be granted. ====Thailand==== Four border crossings exist between Myanmar and [[Thailand]] at [[Tachileik]]/[[Mae Sai]], [[Myawaddy]]/[[Mae Sot]], [[Htee Kee]]/[[Ban Phunamron]] and the [[Three Pagoda Pass]]. The former three are open to foreigners, and there are no restrictions on foreigners travelling into the Burmese heartland from Myawaddy or Htee Kee. From Tachileik, travel beyond Keng Tung is not possible overland unless you are on a guided tour with a special permit. No visa-on-arrival is available though, so ensure that your Thai (if required) and Burmese visas are in order. ====China==== Foreigners can enter Myanmar at [[Muse (Myanmar)|Muse]] via [[Ruili]] (in [[Yunnan]]), although a permit (as well as a visa) and a guide are needed. You will most likely need to join an organized tour. Crossing in the opposite direction is more difficult to arrange and details are uncertain; however, it's possible to fly from [[Mandalay]] to [[Kunming]], and there's even a Chinese consulate that issues visas in Mandalay. ====India==== A land border crossing exists between [[India]] and Myanmar at Moreh/[[Tamu]] and is open to tourists who have vehicles and who are on foot or who have tours. As of 2023, Myanmar eVisas are ''not'' valid for entry at this border, so you'll need to get a visa in advance. This border is in politically unstable territory and there have been protests and two bomb blasts in the Indian town of Moreh (Oct 2019) which briefly closed the border. Tourists are generally advised not to loiter in Moreh, especially late at night- and to stay in Tamu on the Myanmar side if possible. It is no longer required to have a permit to visit the Indian state of [[Manipur]] which borders Myanmar. ====Laos==== The Myanmar-Laos Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River is the sole official border crossing between Myanmar and Laos. The bridge connects [[Shan State]] in Myanmar with [[Luang Namtha|Luang Namtha Province]] in [[Laos]], in a ''very'' remote region for both countries, and information on when (or whether) the crossing is operating is hard to find. As eVisas are not accepted for entry at this crossing, you'll need to get a visa in advance. ====Bangladesh==== It is not feasible to cross the border between Myanmar and [[Bangladesh]] independently. No border crossings exist between the two nations, and the Myanmar army has planted [[landmines]] along the frontier to discourage smugglers. ===By boat=== Small wooden longtail boats shuttle between [[Ranong]], [[Thailand]] and [[Kawthaung]], Myanmar. There is no fixed schedule; you just negotiate directly with one of the boat operators, and they will leave once a price is agreed on. Be sure to bargain hard or you might get ripped off. Boat operators may try you hustle you onto their boat before you find the immigration building to get stamped out; be firm and insist on going through immigration, or you will be considered to have left the country illegally. You will need to pay a US$10 or 500 Thai baht "stamping fee" to Myanmar immigration when entering or leaving via this checkpoint. If choosing to pay by U.S. dollars, be sure your bills are in pristine condition; even slight creases will cause your bills to be rejected. == Get around == Myanmar's infrastructure is in poor shape. Travel to certain regions is prohibited; for others, special permits must be obtained, and a guide/interpreter/minder may be mandatory - although whether these "guides" accompany you to look after you, or to keep you from going to places the government doesn't want you to see, is a question best discussed elsewhere. However, travel between the main tourist sites, namely Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon, is fairly straightforward. ===Restricted areas=== Much of Myanmar is closed to foreign travellers, and many land routes to far-flung areas are also closed (for example, to [[Mrauk U]], [[Kalewa]], [[Putao]], [[Kengtung]]). Due to longstanding ethnic conflicts, many ethnic minority areas are controlled by armed separatist groups and remain outside the control of the central government. Thus, while tourists can travel freely in the Bamar-majority Burmese heartland, travel tends to be restricted or circumscribed in ethnic minority areas. In theory, any tourist can apply for a permit to visit any restricted area or to travel on any restricted land route. In practice, it is unlikely that any such permit will be issued in a reasonable amount of time, or at all. Permit requests can be made locally in some cases (for example, requests for the land route to [[Kalewa]] can be made in [[Shwebo]]) but, in most cases, the request has to be made in [[Yangon]]. Requests to visit restricted areas must be made at the [http://myanmartravelsandtours.com/ MTT (Myanmar Travel and Tours)] office in Yangon (Number 77–91, Sule Pagoda Rd, Yangon). Applications for local permits can often be made at a local MTT office or at a police station. Local permits are available only for the following places & routes: *[[File:Pa-O women at restaurant stall, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Pa-O women at a restaurant stall]][[Kengtung]] - [[Tachilek]]. This used to be straightforward but the availability is now uncertain. *[[Mrauk U]] Chin/Zomi village tours. Easily available in Mrauk U, but must visit with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Myitkyina]] - [[Indawgyi Lake]]. Easily available in Myitkyina but must travel with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Shwebo]] - [[Kalewa]]. A permit is necessary if going by road. It is uncertain whether one is required if going by boat. *[[Pa-O Self-Administered Zone]] in [[Shan State]] (including the Kakku Pagodas). Available in [[Taunggyi]], but must be accompanied by a local Pa-O guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this. All other permits must be obtained in Yangon. Permits for some places, such as Putao, are obtainable but need to be applied for well in advance Myanmar is not [[North Korea]], and you are free to walk around, go to shops and interact with the locals. However, with many of the more far flung places, and places restricted to foreigners, it is better to arrange your internal visa in advance. Companies that can help with internal visas: *[http://www.mrmyanmartravel.com Mr Myanmar Travel] *[http://www.remoteasia.com Remote Asia Travel] *[http://www.travelmyanmar.com Travel Myanmar] ===By plane=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Sample fares between important destinations (through local tourist agency)''' ! From !! To !! Approximate fare |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || US$95 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || US$85 |- | [[Bagan]] || [[Heho]] || US$65 |- | [[Heho]] || [[Yangon]] || US$85 |} The poor state of Myanmar's roads and railways make flying by far the least uncomfortable option when travelling long distances. Flag carrier '''[https://www.flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airlines]''' operates a network of domestic flights to many destinations across Myanmar from its hub in Yangon International Airport. Long known for its poor safety record, it has improved dramatically with the purchase of newer aircraft, and these days compares favourably with many of the private airlines in terms of both service and safety. There are also several private airlines operating domestic flights from Yangon. The private airline companies are usually on time, and even depart early (10-20 min), so be on time and reconfirm your flight and flight time 1–2 days before departure. Sometimes the itinerary might be altered some days before departure (meaning that you will still fly to your final destination on the scheduled time, but with an added or removed in between stop, e.g., Yangon-Bagan becomes Yangon-Mandalay-Bagan). This usually only affects your arrival time. En route stops have only 10-20 min ground time, and if it is not your final destination, you can stay inside the plane during the stop. All domestic flight from Yangon depart from Terminal 3, while international flights depart from Terminals 1 & 2. When taking a taxi from downtown to the airport, mention to the driver that you are on a domestic flight so you'll not end up in the wrong terminal. ===By train=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Train travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Ordinary || Upper || Sleeper |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 16 hr || 4,600&nbsp;kyat || 9,300&nbsp;kyat || 13,000&nbsp;kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 6 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,500&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 4 hr || 550&nbsp;kyat || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 7 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,750&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Lashio]] || 16 hr || 1,900&nbsp;kyat || 4,400&nbsp;kyat || None |} Myanmar has an extensive rail network, a relic of British rule. Unfortunately, there has been little maintenance or growth since the British left. Trains are slow, noisy, uncomfortable, and prone to delays. Electrical blackouts are becoming rare but nonetheless never assume that air conditioners, fans or the electrical supply itself will be working throughout the whole journey. Most trains have upper class and ordinary class. Ordinary class has wide open windows, benches and can be packed with locals transporting their goods. Upper class has upholstered chairs, fans and is less crowded. Be careful putting your head out of the window as it is likely to be hit by a branch. Vegetation grows so close to the tracks that you can reach out and touch it. Tickets are cheap and tourists pay the same price as locals, but tourists cannot buy tickets on the train. At smaller stations, you may have to seek the stationmaster or use an interpreter to buy a ticket. Your passport is required when purchasing. [[File:Gokteik Viaduct, Southbound.jpg|thumb|The famous Gokteik Viaduct dates from 1899]] A journey on a train is a great way to see the country and meet people. The rail journey from [[Mandalay]], up hairpin bends to [[Pyin U Lwin]], and then across the mountains and the famous bridge at Gokteik, is one of the great railway journeys of the world. Trains in lower Mandalay, Yangon-Pathein and Yangon-Mawlymaing, are little communities of their own with hawkers selling everything imaginable. Sleepers are available on many overnight express trains, although in the high season you may want to reserve a few days in advance. Tickets go on sale three days in advance. At some stations there is a separate counter for advance bookings, or even a separate building (e.g., in Yangon). Food service is available on the express in both directions between Yangon and Mandalay. Except for the new bridge and rail line that connects [[Mawlamyine]] to points on the west side of the Salween River, the rail network is exactly the way it was in British times. The most-used line is the 325km line from Yangon to Mandalay with several trains a day. It is the only double line in Myanmar, and also the only one that is competitive in time with buses. The fastest trains take 15 hr for the 385km run, an effective rate of 25km/hour. A second line connects Yangon with Pyay, 9 hr for the 175&nbsp;km journey, with a branch heading off into the delta region town of Pathein. These tracks, the earliest constructed, are in poor shape. With the construction of the bridge across the Salween, it is now possible to go by train from Yangon to Mawlamyine, 8 hr for the 200km journey, and on to Ye and Dawei. From Mandalay, trains continue on to Myitkyina in Kachin State, 350km in 24 hr, and to Lashio. There are also rail connections between Yangon-Bagan and Mandalay-Bagan, but bus or ferry are better alternatives: the 175km from Mandalay to Bagan takes 10 hours. There is railway service between Yangon-Bagan. 16 hr, first class US$30, upper class US$40, sleeper US$50. (check new prices) Train tickets cannot be paid in dollars any more, and the government has abandoned the former dual-pricing structure that saw tourists pay inflated prices. === By boat === There is also a large river ferry network. Both are to a large extent run by the government, although there are now some private ferry services. The trip from Mandalay to Bagan takes the better part of a day, from Bagan to Yangon is several days. === By bus === {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ ''' Bus travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 11 hr || 10,400 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || 10 hr || 12,000 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 4 hr || 6,000 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 2 hr || 1,500 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 5.5 hr || 4,500 |} Buses of all types ply the roads of Myanmar. Luxury (relatively speaking) buses do the Mandalay-Yangon run while lesser vehicles can get travellers to other places. Fares are reasonable and in kyat and buses are faster than the trains. Many long-distance buses assign seats, so it is best to book seats at least a day in advance. Because the roads are bad, avoid the rear of the bus and try to sit as far up front as you can. Long-distance buses also have an extra jump seat that blocks the aisle and, because it is not well secured to the chassis, can be uncomfortable (which also means that there is no such thing as a side seat where taller people can stretch their legs). A window near the front of the bus is always the best option. Even budget travellers will find themselves buying more tickets via their hotel or an agency rather than going to the bus company to buy it directly. Their offices are often located far from any tourist place and the cost of going there and back will most likely exceed the commission your hotel will get for selling you the ticket. Shop around and compare prices before buying your ticket as some vendors include a free pick-up from your hotel. A bus ticket scam seems to be popular in Yangon. While many make a stopover in Bago, they are told at their guesthouse or at the bus station it's not possible to buy tickets there in the direction to Mandalay. In a country where everything might be possible when it comes to transport, some people fall for this. Actually, this is not the case and tracking back to Yangon for a bus ticket up north is not necessary at all. Bago has a bus terminal with several bus offices. Buying your ticket at Bago might be slightly cheaper (depending upon your bargaining skills) and gives you more freedom for the rest of your journey. The adjoining table summarises travel times and approximate fares between important tourist destinations in Myanmar. Most bus fares have gone up with the fuel price rises, so the fares listed are rough estimates. === By pick-up === Old pick-up trucks run everywhere in Myanmar, cheaply ferrying men, women, children, and monks from one place to another. The rear of the truck is converted into a canvas-covered sitting area with three benches, one on each side and one running along the centre of the truck (some smaller trucks have only two rows), and the running board is lowered and fixed into place providing room for six or more people to stand on (holding on to the truck frame). Pick-ups are ubiquitous in Myanmar and every town has a central point somewhere from where they depart to places both near and far. Tourists who go off the beaten track will find them indispensable because often the only alternative is an expensive taxi or private car. The basics of pickups are fairly straightforward, wait till it is reasonably full before heading out. On well-travelled routes (Mandalay-Pyin U Lwin, for example), they fill up quickly and the journey is quick. On less well-travelled routes ([[Bhamo]]-[[Katha]], for example), passengers arrive (early, usually around 06:00), mark their place, and then hang around drinking tea and chatting until the truck fills up. When the pick-up does get moving, it may linger or go out of its way in the hope of picking up more passengers. The inside of a pick-up can be hot and uncomfortable. Passengers, packed in like sardines, face away from the windows (which are tiny) and into the truck. Standing on the running board can be tiring and tough on the arms. The window side seat next to the driver is very comfortable and well-worth the little extra that you have to pay, so it is best to go early and reserve that seat. === By car === [[File:20160729 traffic in Mandalay 5761.jpg|thumb|Busy street in Mandalay]] You can hire a private car and driver at reasonable rates to tour independently. The licensed guides at Shwedagon Paya in Yangon can arrange to have a driver with a car meet you at your hotel. Another way is to arrange for a car through a travel agency, though it can be quite expensive. You can "test" the driver and the car by driving around the city for 10 or 15 minutes. If you are satisfied, a departure date and time and per diem rates (inclusive of petrol) can be negotiated. Some guides are willing to travel with you to serve as interpreters. Traffic drives on the '''right''' in Myanmar, but confusingly, Myanmar has a mixture of left- and right-hand-drive cars, with the majority of vehicles being right-hand-drive as a result of being second-hand imports from Japan or Thailand. Road travel to tourist destinations is generally safe, although some roads may be rough. Highways are often 2-lane, and cars often pass one another recklessly. That being said, driving habits are not quite as aggressive as say, [[Vietnam]]. Allow two days to drive from Yangon to Bagan in fair weather. Pyay is a good stopover point. Allow a day to drive from Bagan to Inle Lake. In cities, it is considered illegal to cross an amber light without stopping. Despite having crossed 3/4 of the way, you will be required to stop in the middle of the road and make your way back in reverse! Accidents and fatalities are common. Night-time road travel is not recommended, and medical facilities are limited in rural areas. At government hospitals, bribes may be required for services. Make sure needles are new or carry your own. HIV is a major problem in Myanmar. ===By taxi=== All taxis (and by extension all vehicles for transport of people and goods) have red/white licence plates, while private vehicles have a black/white licence plate. Tourist agency-owned cars have a blue/white licence plate. ===By ride-hailing=== The main ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/mm/en/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former South-east Asian operations, including that of Myanmar. Uber's short-lived venture into Myanmar occurred just one year prior to its takeover by Grab. In common with Grab's operations elsewhere in Southeast Asia, cash is not required as you can use the Grab app to pay with your card, though cash remains readily accepted. === By motorbike === In Yangon, riding motorcycles is illegal. Mandalay's streets, on the other hand, are filled with them. === By bicycle === In many places you can easily rent a bicycle for about 1,500 kyat per day to move around in your own pace. Around Inle Lake, cycling is a relaxing way to get to the next village or lake viewpoint. Mandalay is laid out on a grid which makes it very easy to navigate while cycling. Tourists used to pedal bicycles around the sights of Bagan, across difficult sandy paths under the hot sun, however electric bicycles are now the norm. At around ten times the price of a conventional bicycle, they are well worth the money. === On foot === Cars and pedestrians may not follow the established rules, and crossing the road can be difficult. Drivers will almost never yield to pedestrians, even on striped pedestrian crossings. ==See== [[File:InleRowing.jpg|300px|thumb|Leg rowing, Inle Lake]] Myanmar has not been a popular destination in Southeast Asia as visitors have been largely deterred by the country's volatile politics and restrictions placed on travel. But the political and travel situation has been improving notably since 2015. The country is a true, unspoiled treasure trove, and should capture the imagination of anyone interested in culture and history. Walking around [[Yangon]] brings you back to the time of 19th-century British colonial rule. Sparkling-clean parks and temples stand side by side decayed colonial-style buildings and deep potholes. Its cultural and religious attractions, like the '''Shwedagon Pagoda''', add to the city's feel of exoticism, as do the smiles of the locals. Every street corner brings something new—and a short ferry over the river even gives you a glimpse of rural life in the country. Cities of cultural and historical interest close to Yangon are [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] with its Buddhist sights, the delta town of [[Twante]] known for its pottery, and the pilgrimage site of [[Kyaiktiyo]] with its gold-gilded rock balancing precariously over a cliff. It's definitely worth it to further explore the Bamar heartland. Unfortunately some outer fringes of the country are off-limits to foreigners, but it's always worth checking the latest situation with people on the ground as things move so fast that the Internet rarely if ever has correct information. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703742020).jpg|thumb|Pyin U Lwin]] The former city of [[Bagan]] is a gem, and gives a glimpse of what life in the 11th and 12th centuries here must have been like. Marco Polo described it as the "gilded city alive with tinkling bells and the swishing sounds of monks' robes". It is the largest and densest concentration of Buddhist temples, pagodas, stupas and ruins in the world. [[Mrauk U]] is a sleepy village today but its crumbling pagodas and temples remind of the early modern period, when it was the capital city of an empire involved in extensive maritime trade with Portuguese, Dutch, French and Arab traders. Within a daytrip from [[Mandalay]] is [[Inwa]], another former capital where ruins remain to remind visitors of its former glory. Also don't miss [[Pyin U Lwin]], a former British hill station with somewhat cooler temperatures. The country has its fair share of '''natural attractions'''. [[Inle Lake]] is popular with backpackers, and it is one of the few places that is starting to feel like a tourist trap. Still, a trip to Myanmar is not complete without a boat trip on the lake. It has a unique vibe with tribes living in stilt houses and paddling their traditional wooden boats with one leg. The country's long southwestern coastline also has a few '''beaches''', such as [[Chaung Tha]] and [[Ngapali]]. If you visit outside of the traditional holiday season, you might just have a beautiful white sand beach for yourself. Myanmar is a country inhabited with dozens of ethnic groups, but sites from the major '''independent Burmese kingdoms''' dating from the 9th century can be seen in sections of the country. ==Do== [[File:Chinlone Burma.jpg|thumb|Burmese men playing chinlone]] Myanmar is an excellent country for '''trekking'''. [[Kalaw]] is a centre for trekking, and has miles and miles of trails through mountains and hill tribe villages. [[Kengtung]] is also known for its hiking paths to hill tribe villages, while [[Hsipaw]] has some great treks to waterfalls. '''Birdwatching''' can be done around [[Inle Lake]]. Myanmar's national sport is '''chinlone''', played with a small rattan ball. The objective of the game is to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible without using one's arms or hands, and to do it as beautifully as possible. Spectacular '''scuba diving''' and unspoiled beaches abound in the Mergui Archipelago in [[southeastern Myanmar]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Myanmar kyat (official rates) | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;kyat | date=January 2025 | USD=2,100 | EUR=2,500 | GBP=2,800 | CNY=300 | THB=650 | SGD=1,600 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mmk-burmese-kyat xe.com]}} {{infobox|Currency Games |Myanmar is still predominantly a cash economy. However, ATMs are widespread. In a misguided attempt to fight rampant black marketeering, the Myanmar government has a habit of ''declaring notes to be worthless'': this happened first in 1964. In 1985, the 20, 50, and 100 kyat notes were withdrawn again and replaced with new kyat notes in the unusual denominations of 25, 35, and 75, possibly chosen because of dictator general Ne Win's predilection for numerology; the 75-kyat note was introduced on his 75th birthday. In 1987, the government demonetized the 25, 35, and 75 kyat notes with no prior warning, rendering some 75% of the country's currency worthless. A new series of 15, 45, and 90-kyat notes was issued, incorporating Ne Win's favourite number 9. The resulting economic disturbances led to serious riots and eventually the 1989 coup by General Saw Maung. The post-coup notes come in more normal denominations from 1–1,000 kyat, and this time the old ones remain legal tender, so far.}} Myanmar's currency is the '''kyat''', pronounced "chat". Prices may be shown locally using the abbreviation of '''K''' (singular or plural) or '''Ks''' (plural) either before or after the amount and depending very much on who is doing the sign writing. The ISO abbreviation is '''MMK'''. Wikivoyage articles will use ''kyat'' to denote the currency. ''Pya'' are coins, and are rarely seen since their value has become increasingly insignificant with even the largest 50 pya coin worth less than US$0.001. Banknotes of Myanmar are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 kyats. You may also come across 20, 10, 5, and 1 ''kyat'' and 50 ''pya'' banknotes. They are valid but rarely found and best held onto as souvenirs. Older banknotes in strange denominations are sold to tourists and, while typically genuine, are rarely if ever valuable. The notes of 50 kyat, 100 kyat, 200 kyat, and 500 kyat are usually in a horrible condition, but are generally accepted when making small purchases. The 1,000 kyat notes are slightly better. 5,000 and 10,000 kyat notes always appear new after exchanging foreign currencies. When exchanging money, check that the banknotes you receive are in a generally good condition. If the exchange gives you kyat notes in horrible condition, you can ask them to exchange them for notes in better condition. Dispose of remaining kyat before leaving. Outside of Myanmar, kyat is almost worthless but do make nice souvenirs. Kyat cannot be legally exchanged abroad, though some money changers in places with large overseas Burmese populations such as [[Singapore]] will exchange anyway, but at terrible rates. Kyat can be exchanged on departure from Yangon Airport at decent rates. ====US dollars==== {{infobox|Is it safe?|So, you're travelling around carrying hundreds, if not thousands, of U.S. dollars stuffed into your pockets in a country where most people subsist on a few dollars a day. Everyone around you knows that if they could get their hands on the money in your pockets, they will be rich for life. What, you may ask, are the odds that someone will try to relieve you of your money? The answer: almost nil. There have been very few instances of a tourist being mugged and only the rare cases of pilfering. Myanmar is an extremely safe country for travellers. Some say it is because of the nature of the people. Others say it is because the punishment for robbing from a foreigner is draconian, whilst others say it is because of Buddhism, which prohibits people from taking what is not given.}} Foreigners are no longer required to pay in U.S. dollars for hotels, tourist attractions, rail and air tickets, ferry travel and for bus tickets. As of 2015, foreign currency instability and the weakening kyat means that many venues will state prices in U.S. dollars, even though it is illegal to do so. Expat restaurants still often quote in U.S. dollars despite actions from the Central Bank prohibiting excess dollar usage. It is illegal for a Myanmar citizen to accept (or hold) U.S. dollars without a licence, but this law is mostly ignored and U.S. dollars are generally accepted. Never insist, though, because it may be dangerous for the receiver. Bring very clean, unfolded U.S. dollars (or they will not be accepted by hotels, restaurants and money changers). Even small imperfections can be cause to reject a U.S. banknote. Keep all U.S. dollars in impeccable condition, and do not fold them. If you do end up with a few, try using them for purchases rather than exchange, or try to exchange them in a few different places. ====ATMs==== There are plenty of ATMs all across the country accepting international Visa and MasterCard. The bigger and more touristic the place the more ATMs it has. Smaller tourist destinations also have ATMs (Bagu, Hpa-An, etc.), but not so many. Make sure to carry a buffer outside of major tourist hotspots. If an ATM does not work, try the next one. Usual withdrawal limit is 300,000 kyat with a processing fee of 5,000 kyat. In case you run out of money, ask your taxi driver to drive you to the CB Bank ATM. '''Note''': Your bank may refuse to process ATM transactions with some/all banks in Myanmar, even if the ATM accepts Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank prior to entering the country. ====Credit cards==== Upmarket tourist places (hotels, agencies, restaurants) are accepting credit cards (and will surcharge accordingly). So you can even pay with mastercard in a store in the middle of Inle Lake for purchases value more than US$100. But nonetheless paper money is the only way to pay in most places. Beside the ATMs, there are places (e.g. hotels in Yangon) where cash can be obtained with a credit card (''cash advance''), but the rates are extremely uncompetitive (with premiums certainly no lower than around 7%, and with quotes of 30% and more frequently reported). Also, they may need to see your passport to process the transaction. For US citizens, it is also possible to receive funds from friends or relatives in an emergencies through the US Embassy. ====Money exchange==== The foreign currency of choice in Myanmar is the US dollar, though you can readily also exchange euros and Singapore dollars in Yangon and Mandalay, but perhaps not beyond. Other options are the Chinese Yuan and Thai Baht. The best rates are in Yangon and Mandalay. Major foreign currencies need to be in good condition—other currencies like rupees and baht are often accepted even if worn out. The military junta re-imposed currency controls in 2021, again leading to a yawning gap between the official rate (fixed at 2100 kyat/dollar) and the black market rate, which ranged from 3,400 to 5,600/dollar in 2024. Banks and money changers only sell kyat at the official rate. Exchanging on the '''black market is illegal''': sellers risking jail time and the junta periodically cracks down. Especially on holidays and Sundays, all your necessary money should be changed at the airport as banks in town are closed. Money changers offer significantly lower rates (5-10% lower) for changing US dollars and euros. The most hassle-free option is to change all your required money at the airport, depending on the rate to change it back. Look around different banks for the best exchange rate. Be sure to bring a mix of foreign denominations when visiting Myanmar because money changers will sometimes not give change and smaller notes (in good condition) are useful for some entry fees and transport. Even though, larger bills give the best exchange rates at banks. Ensure that foreign notes are: * Unmarked – No stamps, anti-counterfeit pen, ink or any other mark on them at all. Pencil can be removed with a good eraser, but any permanent marks will greatly decrease a note's value and ability to be exchanged. * Fresh, crisp and as close to brand new as possible – Moneychangers have been known to reject notes just for being creased and/or lightly worn. * Undamaged – No tears, missing bits and pieces, holes, repairs or anything of that sort. * Preferably of the new design, with the larger portrait, and the multiple-colour prints. Although, old-style US$1 are still commonly traded. * For US$100 bills, have no serial numbers starting "CB". This is because they are associated with a counterfeit "superbill" which was in circulation some time ago. '''Scams''': * There are a number of tricks and scams running around Myanmar trapping tourists who are carrying US dollars. Sometimes, guesthouses or traders will try and pass you damaged or nonexchangeable bills in change. Always inspect all notes when making a purchase and request that the vendor swap any notes you think you will have trouble using down the track—this is perfectly acceptable behaviour for both vendors and customers, so don't be shy. * Some money changers will also attempt sleight of hand tricks to either swap your good banknotes for damaged, or lower denomination notes. Other reports suggest that the kyats may be counted and then somehow, some disappear from the table during the transaction. For example, after going through an elaborate counting process for piles of ten 1,000 kyat notes, some money changers will pull some notes out as they count the piles of ten. * When changing money, be sure that, after any money is counted, it is not touched by anyone until the deal is sealed. Also do not allow your dollars or major foreign currencies to be removed from your sight until all is agreed; in fact, it is not even necessary to pull out your US dollars until your are paying for the kyats you received. It sounds extreme, but ending up in a country where you cannot access whatever savings you have, and having a good portion of your budget rendered useless (until you get to more relaxed changers in Bangkok) can really put a dampener on your plans. ====Travellers cheques==== Travellers cheques are '''not accepted''' in Myanmar. The only exception might be some especially shady money changer, but be prepared to pay an astronomical commission (30% is not uncommon). ===Shopping=== When visiting tourist attractions, you will likely be swarmed by local hawkers, many of them children, trying to sell you souvenirs. Be sure to [[Bargaining|bargain]] hard should you decide to buy from them. Owing to decades of repressive military rule, a great many service and travel-oriented companies have strong links to the military. These are vital ways for the military to earn money, particularly foreign currency. If you wish to avoid spending money at military-owned or military-associated businesses, download the [https://waywaynay.com/ Way Way Nay Boycott app]. ====Tipping==== Tipping is generally not practised by the Burmese themselves. However, given widespread poverty in the country, tips are certainly appreciated if you have been provided with exemplary service. Tips that are charged to a credit card almost never make it to the service staff, so if you wish to tip, make sure you hand it over in cash to the person who served you. ====Costs==== Despite being less developed, Myanmar is expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or Vietnam. This is particularly true of hotel prices in the main tourists areas, as demand far outstrips supply. Similarly, the lack of competition from budget airlines has also made domestic flights rather expensive. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703766279).jpg|thumb|Night market in Pyin U Lwin]] It's not possible to be comfortable on less than US$25/day (May 2013). Foreigners will likely be charged fees, including video camera, camera, entrance, parking and zone fees. Most managed tourist site charge for carrying cameras of any sort into the area. Double rooms with private bathroom are nearly always more than US$20, in Yangon a double room without bathroom costs US$20. Dorm beds are around US$10 (or US$8 if you accept to lose a lot of value) (Sep 2015). While you cannot save on accommodation, you can save on food. Street food can get as low as US$0.30 for 2 small curries with 2 Indian breads, US$1 for a normal (vegetarian) dish. Even in touristy places like Bagan dishes cost under US$1 (vegetarian) and US$2 (meat). A draught Myanmar beer (5%) is around 600 kyat, a bottle of Myanmar beer (650 ml) is around 1,700 kyat, a bottle of Mandalay beer (6.5%, 650 ml) around 1,200 kyat. ====What to buy==== * '''Antiques''' – Purchasing antiquities and antiques in Myanmar is at best a legal grey area with the 2015 passage of the new Antiquities Law, and often illegal for any item over 100 years old. Penalties include prison and fines. It is recommended to avoid purchasing antiques as a tourist, unless you're willing to get an export permit from the Ministry of Culture on your way out and you have enough knowledge to avoid the fakes. Replicas and fakes are rife in Bogyoke market and other anitque stores frequented by tourists. It is against the law to export religious antiques (manuscripts, Buddhas, etc.) * '''Art''' – The Myanmar Art market has exploded, with local artists' works going for good values in Yangon and Mandalay. Visit the numerous galleries in Yangon to get a feel for available works. Art is often related to Buddhism and the difficult socio-political situation, as well as more traditional Victorian-influenced subjects like markets, old women smoking cigars, tribal members, and monks. There is a lot of cheap/mass-painted and derivative works at Bogyoke Market. * '''[[Gemstones]]''' – Myanmar is best known as for its [[jade]] and [[rubies]] (the granting of a license to the French over the ruby mines in [[Mogok]] was one of the causes leading to the Third Burmese War), and also produces some really fine [[sapphires]]. These can be obtained at a fraction of what it would cost in the West. There are a lot of fakes for sale amid the genuine stuff and, unless you know your gems, buy from an official government store or risk being cheated. Bogoyoke Aung San Market and the Myanmar Gems Museum in [[Yangon]] has many licensed shops and is generally a safe place for the purchase of these stones. The jade market in [[Mandalay]] is also worth a visit, where most of the jade is brought from the mines to be sold to merchants, and you can observe merchants haggling over the prices of both raw jade and various jade items in all stages of the production process. You can also purchase some jade trinkets yourself, but be prepared to haggle, and make sure you do your homework before buying or you risk getting ripped off. * '''Lacquerware''' – A popular purchase, which is made into bowls, cups, vases, tables and various items, and is available almost anywhere. The traditional centre of lacquerware production is [[Bagan]] in [[Central Myanmar]], and most tours include a stop at one of the local lacquerware factories where you can purchase one of these. Beware of fraudulent lacquer ware, though, which is poorly made, but looks authentic. As a guide, the stiffer the lacquer, the poorer the quality; the more you can bend and twist it, the finer the quality. * '''Tapestries''' – Known as ''kalaga'', or ''shwe chi doe''. There is a long tradition of weaving tapestries in Burma. These are decorated with gold and silver thread and sequins and usually depict tales from the Buddhist scriptures (the ''jatakas'') or other non-secular objects from Burmese Buddhism (mythical animals, the ''hintha'', and the ''kalong'' are also popular subjects). The tapestry tradition is dying out but many are made for tourists and are available in Mandalay and Yangon. Burmese tapestries don't last long, so be warned if someone tries to sell you an antique ''shwe chi doe''! * '''Textiles''' – Textiles in Myanmar are stunning. Each region and each ethnic group has its own style. Chin fabrics are particularly stunning. They are handwoven in intricate geometric patterns, often in deep reds and mossy greens and white. They can be quite pricey, perhaps US$20 for the cloth to make a longyi (sarong). ==Eat== [[File:Outdoor café, Yangon, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Outdoor café in Yangon]] Burmese food is influenced by that of India and China, yet unique. Apart from Burmese food, other ethnic traditional foods such as Shan food, Rakhine food, and Myeik food are also distinct. Rice is at the core of Burmese food, and good vegetarian food is widely available. Burmese food is often extremely pungent. Similar to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, '''fish sauce''' (ငံပြာရည် ''ngan bya yay'') is a very popular condiment in Myanmar, and is used to flavour many dishes. Food is inexpensive at most restaurants (priced at 500–3,000 kyat per item at most local restaurants, but can go as high as 8,000 kyat at posh restaurants). There are many up-market restaurants in Yangon and Mandalay. The majority of low-to-mid-priced restaurants use a cheap blend of palm oil for cooking. This oil may be unhealthy, and common roadside restaurants should be avoided if you are at the slightest risk for hypertension, heart disease, or other fat- or cholesterol-related conditions. Higher class restaurants may use peanut oil instead. Specific dishes include: [[File:Chapati and mutton curry.JPG|thumb|Chapati and mutton curry]] * '''Curry''' &ndash; Burmese people have a very different definition of curry than other countries. It is very spicy compared to Indian and Thai options, and although you may find it served at room temperature in cheaper restaurants, in a typical Burmese home all curry dishes are served hot. Burmese curry does not contain coconut milk, unlike its other SE Asian counterparts, and has a large quantity of onion or tomato depending on region and cook's preference. Myanmar is the highest per-capita consumer of onions in the world. Quite often Burmese curries are cooked with lots of oil, much more than other regional curries. * '''Samosa thoke''' (samosa salad) &ndash; A popular street dish of chickpeas, potatoes, tomato, cabbage, mint and a smashed samosa. * '''Mohinga''' (pronounced ''mo-HIN-ga'') &ndash; A dish of rice vermicelli with fish chowder, usually accompanied by coriander and chili powder. Its taste can range from sweet to spicy, and is usually eaten at breakfast. It is considered by many to be the national dish, and is widely available throughout the country, albeit in different styles in different regions. * '''Mote lin-mayar''' (Couples snacks) &ndash; Small tiny pancakes with chives, chickpeas or quail eggs. * '''Sticky rice''' &ndash; Served plain or with turmeric or black rice * '''Nan Gyi Thoke''' (pronounced ''nan gyi thou'') &ndash; A special dish of rice noodle salad with chicken sauce. It is mostly eaten in mid-Myanmar. * '''Onnokauswe''' (pronounced ''oun-NO-kao-sui'') &ndash; A dish of thicker noodles in a thick soup of coconut milk with chicken. It is served with a variety of condiments accompanying it, ranging from fried fruit fritters to solidified duck blood. "Khao soi"("noodle" in Shan), often found on the streets of Chiang Mai, is derived from this Burmese counterpart. It is also comparable to the spicier laksa often found in peninsular SE countries like Malaysia and Singapore. * '''Shan food''' &ndash; The Shan are an ethnic group who inhabit Shan State around Inle lake, near the Thai border. Their food is marvelous. It can be found in Yangon easily. :* '''Shan tofu''' &ndash; Made with mung beans instead of soya beans these yellow blocks are served fried or in a cold noodle salad. :* '''Laphet thote''' (pronounced ''la-peh THOU'') &ndash; A salad of fermented tea leaves and a variety of fried nuts. It is commonly mixed with sliced lettuce, and is eaten with rice. * '''Chinese food''' &ndash; Available in most cities and usually authentic, if plain. * '''Kachin food''' &ndash; Mainly available in Kachin State, though a number of Kachin restaurants can be found in Yangon and Mandalay. Kachin food is less oily and uses less MSG than Burmese food, and you may find it a good alternative if Burmese curries are not to your liking. == Drink == '''Tap water''' in Myanmar is not safe to drink, however factory-made ice in restaurants and other shops is OK. '''Bottled water''' is readily available. You can also safely drink from the many clay jars dotted around the country, or find safe drinking water in temples. Just look for the large steel tanks with cups tied to the spigots. Water in the clay jars is filtered and many Myanmar people use them. Owners of the jars fill them up with water as a way to make merit. Similar to Chinese tea, ''Yenwejan'' is usually provided free at restaurant tables. While not flavourful, it is boiled water, and so safe to drink (do not drink plain water - even in restaurants - unless it is bottled water). Dried tea leaves similar to Laphet thote's tea leaves (except these are wet) are added to the boiled water to give ''Yenwejan''. Be sure to order it with ''Laphet thote'' (customary/good combination). '''Milk tea''' (လက်ဖက်ရည် ''La-Phet-Yay'') is also popular in Myanmar and widely available in the local markets and teahouses but beware: the Burmese like their milk teas very, ''very'' sweet. '''Alcohol''' is frowned upon by conservative Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, but consumed widely, mostly among men. Myanmar Beer is most popular in the country. Other variants, including Mandalay Beer exist. However, many of such companies are government-owned and/or have links to the drug trade. '''Toddy juice''' (''ta-YEI'') is popular in central Myanmar, and is made from fermented palm sugar. An alcoholic drink popular in the Shan State is '''Shwe le maw''', and is reportedly very strong. It is also possible to buy full strength Beer Chang imported from Thailand; exports to most countries are not nearly as strong. Beware of alcoholic drinks served in the far northern states. The locals refer to it as '''alcohol which does not burn''' when lit, and it is widely suspected to be an opiate concoction rather than a fermented beverage. There are a lot of nightclubs, including those attached to the five star hotels (e.g. Grand Plaza), and also local entertainment centres (e.g. JJs, Asia plaza). === Teahouses === [[File:Myanmar Tea House Food.jpg|thumb|Tea and snacks at a tea house]] Teahouses are important places of social gathering and popular throughout the country. They look like restaurants but if you watch closely you will notice that people are drinking a lot of Chinese tea (free), light brown tea and are mainly snacking. Some teahouses also offer simple dishes as fried rice or noodles. Once seated they will expect you to order coffee but that's not what you should go for as it is almost always instant coffee. Order tea, a type of black tea with milk that differ in strength and sweetness: *''bone mahn'': balanced *''cho seh'': sweet *''kyaw p'daung'': sweeter *''pan brown'': bitter and sweet *''jah hseent'': light, with milk, not strong *''pancho'': strong *''bow hseent'': less strong *''noe hseent dee'': milk tea without sugar You will completely mispronounce the tea names (second and sixth are relatively easy) and people might not get what you want at all since it's rare for foreigners to order these teas. So it's better to ask your hotel or any local speaking English to write down the names in Burmese. Since you are a foreigner they will assume that you want your tea ''sheh'' - special - which means it will come with condensed milk. It's also possible to order a ''tankie'' and so the tea will come in a big pot. A simple cup of tea costs 200-400 kyat. Small snacks like samosas, cakes or sweet balls are readily available at the table. If not, ask. At the end you will only pay for the number of pieces eaten. Foodies should check out the type of snacks before deciding on a teahouse. It is not impolite at all to bring your own food, as long as you order at least ''something''. == Sleep == [[File:Sule-Pagoda by-Night.jpg|thumb|Night in Yangon]] Myanmar has good hotel accommodation, particularly in major cities and the main tourist areas, though prices are substantially higher than in [[Thailand]] or [[Vietnam]]. Rooms with attached bath are available for under US$10 everywhere except Yangon and with shared bath for anywhere from US$3–6 in most places. Almost every hotel licensed for foreigners has running hot water (though, in remote areas, availability may be restricted to certain hours of the day). Hotels, with a few exceptions, are usually clean. At the budget end, sheets and blankets may be threadbare and the rooms may be poorly ventilated. A few low-end hotels, particularly in Yangon and other large cities, specialize in cubicle rooms, small single rooms with no windows which, while cheap and clean, are not for the claustrophobic. Rates are quoted as single/double, but the rooms are usually the same whether one person or two stay in the room, making good hotels a real bargain if travelling as a couple. Except at the top-end, breakfast is always included in the price of the room. The tourism boom in Myanmar has left its infrastructure struggling to cope with the increased numbers of visitors. Hotel rooms tend to sell out really fast, and those in popular tourist destinations often sell out months in advance. As a result of the lack of supply, prices have also increased substantially. You should make your hotel bookings well in advance of your planned trip to Myanmar in order not to be stranded when you arrive. Wild camping is not legal in Myanmar. Myanmar has a problem providing enough electricity to its people and power supply is severely restricted everywhere. In many places, electricity may be available only for a few hours each evening or, in some cases, only every alternate evening. If you don't want to spend your nights without a fan or air conditioning, ask if the hotel has a generator (most mid-priced hotels do). On generator nights, the air conditioning in your room may not work (the price is usually lower as well). Even if a hotel has a generator, there is no guarantee that it will be used to provide you electricity at the times you require, so be ready for blackouts at any time of day or night. Major tourist hotels in Yangon and Mandalay have near-uninterrupted electricity supply, but can cost anywhere from US$80–300 per night. At the top-end, Myanmar has some excellent hotels including one or two great ones (The Strand in Yangon and Kandawgyi Palace Hotel in Yangon). The Myanmar government runs many hotels, including some beautiful colonial era ones (though not the two listed in the previous sentence). A percentage of all accommodation payments goes to the government, no matter where you choose to stay, and it is not possible to run a successful business in Myanmar without some relationship or payment arrangement with the military. == Work == {{overseasjobscam|Myanmar, particularly in the areas along the Thai border. In many cases, victims are lured to Thailand with a job offer, then trafficked across the border into Myanmar}} Work in Myanmar for foreigners is hard to come by. NGOs and other aid groups operate in the capital and remote rural areas but may require specific skill sets to hire you. Another option is European and Asian companies, mostly operating on a small scale. Teaching English is feasible in private schools but many foreigners have reported unreasonable contracts, such as withholding pay and refusing to pay those who resign early. The education ministry only hires citizens with teaching certification. If you would like to work and assist Burmese refugees, certain NGOs work in neighbouring [[Thailand]]. == Stay safe == === Crime === The government punishes crime, particularly against tourists, severely; as a result, as far as crime and personal safety go, Myanmar is extremely safe for tourists, and it is generally safe to walk on the streets alone at night. In fact, you are less likely to be a victim of crime in Myanmar than in [[Thailand]] or [[Malaysia]]. However, as with anywhere else, little crime does not mean no crime and it is still no excuse to ditch your common sense. As a foreigner, the most common crime you should be worried about is petty theft, so keep your belongings secured. Physical and verbal harassment towards foreigners is uncommon, even on urban walks near bars. Since 2005, [[Yangon]] and [[Mandalay]] have seen a barely perceptible rise in the very low level of street robberies. There were isolated bombings in 2005 in Mandalay and Yangon, and in 2006 in [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]. === Illegal substances === {{Warningbox|Drug offences are '''''severely punished''''' by the Burmese authorities. Convicted offenders can expect to face lengthy prison sentences. |us = https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Burma.html |canada = https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar }} ===Begging=== Despite traditional taboos against it, [[begging]] has become a major problem in the main tourist areas such as [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] and [[Bagan]]. Children and "mothers" carrying babies are often the ones who beg as they are more effective at soliciting pity. Most beggars are part of larger begging syndicates or just after easy money, as tourists are usually seen to be rich. In addition, the poor can always obtain food for free from the nearest monastery if they can't afford to pay for it, so begging is not necessary for their survival. If you choose to give, note that most Burmese earn only US$40 a month doing manual labour and so giving US$1 to a beggar is ''very'' generous. ===Fake monks=== Theravada Buddhism is the main religion in Myanmar, and it is customary for monks to go on alms rounds in the morning. Unfortunately, there are also many bogus monks who hang out around the main tourist attractions preying on unsuspecting visitors. Alms rounds are solely for the purpose of collecting food: genuine monks are forbidden from accepting, or even touching money. Monks are forbidden from eating after noon, and are also not allowed to sell items or use high pressure tactics to solicit donations. Authentic monks are often found in single file lines with their alms bowls. If you see a single monk requesting money from foreigners he is a fraud. === Corruption === Myanmar is one of the world's most corrupt countries. Officials and other civil servants may discreetly ask you for a bribe, or invent issues (missing forms, closed offices, etc.) in order to get you to suggest one. Pretending not to understand or asking to speak to a superior may work. However, white visitors are rarely targeted, while those of Asian descent (including South Asians and East Asians) may be forced to give bribes, but the brunt of the problem hits normal Burmese. Westerners are very rarely asked for bribes, although most bribes are a US dollar or less, and requested by people earning as little as US$30/month. === Driving conditions === [[File:Jampacked car in Kalaw (Myanmar 2013) (11773361556).jpg|thumb|One of many right-hand drive vehicles imported from Japan into Myanmar. These cause inherent visibility problems when driving on the right side of the road]] The poor road infrastructure, and a mixture of extremely ancient vehicles on the country's roads are all what best describe the road conditions. However, driving habits are not very aggressive compared to say, [[Vietnam]], which does make the safety of the roads comfortable for almost everyone. Although rare, youths sometimes compete against each other on the roads, which has led to some casualties over the past few years. Bus drivers are among the worst dangers, although this is somewhat less of an issue since 2010 due to new, very harsh penalties imposed on bus drivers involved in accidents. Surprisingly, Burma has a mixture of both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, with the majority being right-hand drive (used imports from Japan) but driving is generally done on the right side of the roads. Unless you have experience driving in countries with poorly disciplined drivers and very shabby vehicles, try to avoid driving in Myanmar; alternatively, arrange for a local driver to take you around. === Civil conflict === Various insurgent groups continue to operate in the '''Mon, and Chin (Zomi), states''' of Myanmar, along the Thai and Chinese borders. Travel to these regions generally requires a government permit. The government also sometimes restricts travel to '''Kayah State, Rakhine State, and Kachin State''' due to insurgent activity. However travel is entirely unrestricted to the districts of Yangon, Bago, Ayeyarwady, Sagaing, Taninthayi, Mandalay, and Magwe. Some areas that have been reported as closed have become open without notice, and areas previously regarded as open can become closed with no warning. In addition, local immigration offices may have their own interpretations of regulations. === Politics === [[File:Propaganda, Myanmar 2.jpg|thumb|"Tatmadaw [Armed Forces] and the people in eternal unity. Anyone attempting to divide them is our enemy."]] Myanmar is again under harsh military rule as it was from 1962 - 2012, with a reputation for repressing dissent, as in the case of the house arrest of democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi. There used to be more than 1,500 political prisoners (sentences of 65 years and hard labor in remote camps were given to leaders of the Saffron Revolution), although some have been released. When in Myanmar, abstain from political activities and don't insult the government. Discuss politics, if you must, with people who have had time to get a feel for you. The danger, however, is primarily posed to those you speak with, so let them lead the conversation. Also, realize that many phone lines are tapped. And if you absolutely must wave a democracy banner on the street, you'll simply find yourself on the next outbound flight. Between 2012–2020, liberty in general increased under the new government. A few politically critical articles have been published in government newspapers and a satirical film deriding the government's film censorship policy has been released, neither of which would have been possible even in 2010. Returning visitors to Myanmar may find that locals have become ever so slightly more open to discussions regarding politics. However, under any circumstances avoid doing things that might make the military or police feel uncomfortable, such as taking pictures of police and police buildings or vehicles. == Stay healthy == Hygiene in Myanmar may seem terrible to the average Westerner but it is possible to stay healthy with some basic precautions such as prophylactic medication, care choosing food and water, and antibacterial ointment. '''Never drink [[tap water]]'''. Restaurants are legally required to use ice made and sold by bottled water companies, so ordering ice is usually safe in major places. Always drink bottled water and check that the cap is sealed on, not simply screwed on. Diseases such as [[dengue fever]], [[Japanese encephalitis]] and [[malaria]] are endemic. Drug-resistant strains of malaria and tuberculosis are common in many areas. Hepatitis vaccinations are highly recommended and the cholera oral vaccine is worthwhile. At the dinner table, Burmese use a spoon and fork, or their fingers when this is more convenient. You might feel better rinsing all of them before meals. Antibacterial wipes or alcohol hand-rub is a good idea at regular intervals. As in many developing countries: "if you can't fry, roast, peel or boil it - then forget it". ===HIV=== The rate of HIV infection in Myanmar is high by Western and Asian standards (0.7% of the population in 2019). ===Healthcare=== Myanmar's healthcare system is poorly funded. If you should fall sick in Myanmar, you can visit the doctor in major cities for minor ailments. However, for more serious medical care, hospital conditions tend to be unsanitary and there is often a shortage of medical supplies. The only hospital that comes close to modern developed standards is Pun Hlaing Hospital, a privately owned hospital which is in a remote township of Yangon called Hlaing Thar Yar, and one should expect very high expenses there. Most of the hospitals are government owned, which means poorly funded. Most of the government officials and rich locals go to [[Thailand]] or [[Singapore]] for more serious medical treatment and hospitalisation, and you will be better off doing so too. Make sure you get travel insurance as arranging to be airlifted in an emergency is rather costly. The clinic formerly operated by the Australian Embassy in Yangon closed in 2018. There is a good [https://myanmarmix.com/en/directory/international-sos-clinic-yangon international medical clinic] at the Inya Lake Hotel in Yangon for consulting, testing, radiology and minor surgery. == Respect == {{infobox|Naming conventions|Unlike in many other cultures, there is generally no concept of a family name, patronymic or matronymic in Burmese culture, and most individuals only have a given name. For example, the 8th President, '''Htin Kyaw''', only has a given name with no family name, patronymic or matronymic, and would be addressed as Mr Htin Kyaw by most English speakers. Often, a Burmese honorific, usually '''U''' (ဦး) for men or '''Daw''' (ဒေါ်) for women, may be added to the beginning of the name, so he may be addressed as ''U Htin Kyaw''.}} [[File:Mrauk U - 0002.jpg|thumb|400px|[[Mrauk U]], the old capital of Rakhine in Myanmar]] Modest clothing is highly appreciated everywhere except nightclubs, and practically required in religious places such as pagodas, temples and monasteries (of which there are thousands). Miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed in consecrated areas, where you also have to remove your footwear, so loafers and flip-flops that you can slip on and off at the entrance are preferable. Myanmar has some of the most stunning temples in Asia and you will be tempted to visit more than you think. In Myanmar, you have to remove your footwear before entering the entire temple complex, including in outdoor areas. You might want to bring some wet wipes so you can clean your feet after visiting. Burmese people generally do not engage in public display of affection, even among married couples, and it is generally considered distasteful and should be avoided. Both men and women wear a ''longyi'', a sort of sarong sold everywhere, and it is not unusual to see Caucasian foreigners walking around in them. They are wrapped in different ways for men and women, so find out how to tie yours. If you turn up at a temple in inappropriate dress, you can always rent a longyi for a pittance. When giving and receiving '''business cards''', always use your right hand with the palm facing up, and your left hand supporting your right elbow. As the left hand is traditionally reserved for dirty things, handling business cards with it is considered to be very rude. Tourists of Caucasian descent are commonly referred to as ''bo'', which translates to "officer", a linguistic relic of colonization. Address elders with ''U'' (pronounced "oo", as in s'''oo'''n) or "Uncle" for men, and ''Daw'' or "Auntie" for women. Generally speaking, despite the common negative perception of the government, most ordinary Burmese people are incredibly friendly and polite as long as you respect their local customs. Customer service is in general very good (some say better than in [[Thailand]]) but customer service staff are invariably poorly paid, so you might wish to tip service staff generously to ensure your money goes into the right hands. ===Politics=== Avoid discussing relations with the Rohingya and the ongoing ethnic cleansing as this is a very sensitive and emotive issue that can potentially escalate into a confrontation. The vast majority of Burmese people regard the Rohingya as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh who have no right to be in Myanmar, and their Muslim religion is seen by many as a threat to Buddhism. Most Burmese people are offended when the Rohingya are referred to as such, and will insist that you use the term "Bengali" to refer to them instead. Tread carefully when discussing relations with [[China]]. Even though both the military junta and Aung San Suu Kyi had developed close ties with China and invited Chinese investment in Myanmar's infrastructure, this is strongly opposed by many pro-democracy activists. While the pro-democracy view on China have largely improved due to alleged Chinese support towards anti-junta ethnic armed organisations, China's policy has equally dissatisfied or even angered pro-junta groups. ===Religion=== {{see also|Buddhism#Respect}} Buddhism is the largest religion in the country, followed by roughly 80-90% of the population. Many Burmese people are religious and fundamentalist Buddhism has seen growing support in the 21st century. As in neighbouring Thailand, monks collect alms in the morning and adhere to strict rules such as abstaining from physical contact with women and not touching money. It is customary for Burmese men to spend time living as a monk at least once in their lifetime. Donations to monks should be spontaneous and given in the form of food only, not money; monetary donations should be placed in donation boxes in temples. If you see a monk with money in his alms bowl, he is fake. Monks are not allowed to eat after noon, so if you see a monk going on alms round after noon, he is fake. Buddhist monks are highly respected, and it is essential to show them respect. Always ask for permission before taking a photograph or touching a monk. It is also important to behave appropriately in their presence. If you are on public transportation, it is customary to give up your seat for them as a sign of respect. Showing any form of disrespect to Buddhism is taken '''very seriously''' in Myanmar and you can expect to be treated with '''no degree of leniency''' if you've been accused of disrespecting Buddhism. Disrespecting Buddhism encompasses things like wearing something with Buddha on it, having a tattoo of Buddha, depicting Buddha in an inappropriate way, and so on. Foreigners have been jailed for disrespecting Buddhism, so be careful about what you say and what you do. Do not speak negatively about religion; it is illegal, under Burmese law, to "insult" religion. What counts as "insulting" religion is very broadly defined and open to interpretation. Refrain from engaging in religious discussions with the Burmese. Swastikas are commonly seen in Buddhist temples and '''should not''' be conflated with anti-Semitism and Nazism. ==Connect== === Telephone === Country Code: +95 International Call Prefix: 00 Phone numbers in Myanmar have the format <code>+95 1 234-5678</code> where "95" is the country code for Myanmar, the next one, two, three or four digits are the area code and the remaining 6, 7 or 8 digits are the "local" part of the subscriber number. You can buy GSM/4G sim cards at International airports or any convenience store. Standard sim card costs around 1500 Ks. Some operators may offer special sim for tourists. There are 4 mobile operators in Myanmar, MPT (Government+KDDI), Telenor, Ooredoo and MyTel (Military+VietTel). MPT in the largest in Myanmar in terms of network coverage and user. Operators offer similar price plans. Generally, standard plan offers voice calls for 20 Ks - 25Ks/min, SMS at 15 Ks - 20 Ks/message. Pay as you go data plan offers around 7 Ks/MB but specific data plan will offer around 1000 Ks/GB or cheaper. Prices for IDD and roaming service vary depending on the operators and destination countries. If you are going to use in urban area only for local call and data, there is not much difference between operators. If you are going to visit remote area, please check which operator is available at there. If you are going to use IDD or roaming, you may wisely choose by checking offering price at their websites. === Mail === International mail out of Myanmar is reportedly quite efficient, despite what some hotels might tell you. As elsewhere, there is always a risk if you send valuables as ordinary parcels. Use EMS for fast, and relatively cheap international parcels. === Internet === Country's telecommunication sector was revolutionized in 2013 and speed is steadily increasing and price become cheaper. As of 2020, free Wi-fi is available at almost every Hotels. Unlike other countries, Myanmar hugely rely on 4G Internet than cable or Wi-fi. Surprisingly, Yangon has 4th-fastest 4G speeds in East Asia despite the fact that it had slowest speeds in Asia before 2013. Seamless 4G Internet is available in every city, town and along major highway roads. Even a small village is likely to be covered with at least 3G Internet unless it is in highly remote or armed conflict area. Data costs are around 1000 kyat ($0.8)/GB. There are also cheaper fancy data plans depending on operators. MPT is largest mobile operator and Telenor is second. 4G sim cards are available at International airports and any convenience store. With the extended coverage of 4G and smart phones, once dominant Internet cafes are getting out of business and turn into gaming stations. In case of you need to access Internet urgently, you can use at those gaming stations but extensive file downloading is not welcome for it can effect their gaming experience. Facebook and Viber are the most used apps and services in Myanmar. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|22|96|zoom=5}} gdsmifqbtwp4s4gj772xfd3lgxuz7yw 5091347 5091346 2025-07-11T10:45:29Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Money */ 5091347 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bagan (Myanmar) banner Sunset.jpg|caption=The temples of Bagan at dawn}} {{Warningbox| A nationwide state of emergency remains in force, with nighttime curfews enforced in many cities including Yangon. <!--- Mainland Chinese visitors should be extra careful due to hostility from protesters, and should avoid speaking Mandarin near protest venues.---> Avoid facilities and vehicles linked to security forces and military administration, monitor local media closely, and keep in regular contact with your embassy. Ethnic armed organisations are waging a large-scale offensive in [[Northern Myanmar|Northern]] and [[Eastern Myanmar]] from the Chinese-Myanmar border. Martial law is imposed in part of Shan State, and border crossings along the Chinese-Myanmar border are suspended. There are reports that the prices of many necessities is soaring. Many governments advise against all travel to Myanmar, though the main tourist circuit comprising of [[Yangon]], [[Mandalay]], [[Bagan]] and [[Inle Lake]] is far-removed from the violence and generally safe to visit — corroborated by the UK government's travel advice. A massive earthquake hit the area near Sagaing on 28th March 2025, and a state of emergency has been declared. The earthquake tremors could be felt as far as Hanoi, Vietnam. Many governments advise against all travel to Mandalay and nearby areas. |australia=https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/myanmar |nz=https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/myanmar |canada=https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar |ie=https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/myanmar-burma |sg=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/countries-regions/m/myanmar/travel-page |uk=https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/myanmar |us=https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/burma-travel-advisory.html |lastedit=2025-03-31 }} '''Myanmar''' (မြန်မာ ''myanma''), or '''Burma''' is a country in [[Southeast Asia]]. The country features awe-inspiring ancient temples, lively local markets, and captivating landscapes, such as unspoiled beaches, picturesque hills, and verdant forests. The genuine warmth of the Burmese people, combined with delectable cuisine, creates an ideal destination for gastronomes and culture aficionados alike. Since the 1960s, the country has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. For a considerable period, Myanmar has been afflicted with political instability, sectarian violence, corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and a prolonged history of colonial exploitation that paid scant attention to human development. == Regions == {{Regionlist | regionmap=Burma Regions Map.png | regionmapsize=425px | region1name=[[Southern Myanmar]] | region1items=''Ayeyarwady, Bago, Yangon'' | region1color=#CAA7C9 | region1description=The lowlands of the Irrawaddy Delta with the largest city and former capital Yangon. | region2name=[[Central Myanmar]] | region2items=''Magway, Mandalay, Naypyitaw'' | region2color=#E5B775 | region2description=Mandalay, historical and archaeological sites and cool hill towns. | region3name=[[Western Myanmar]] | region3items=''Rakhine, Chin'' | region3color=#A4C78A | region3description=Remote mountainous regions and some lovely beaches on the Bay of Bengal. | region4name=[[Northern Myanmar]] | region4items=''Sagaing, Kachin'' | region4color=#d17c82 | region4description=A huge, fractious region including the southern reaches of the Himalayas and many tribes. | region5name=[[Eastern Myanmar]] | region5items=''Shan, Kayah'' | region5color=#76AED2 | region5description=The infamous Golden Triangle and a bewildering number of ethnic groups. | region6name=[[Southeastern Myanmar]] | region6items=''Tanintharyi, Mon, Kayin'' | region6color=#DDE28E | region6description=The southern coastal stretch bordering Thailand with a vast number of offshore islands. }} == Cities == * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Naypyidaw]]|wikidata=Q37400}} (''formerly Pyinmana'') — newly designated capital of the country * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]|wikidata=Q800122}} (''formerly Pegu'') — historic city near Yangon full of Buddhist sights * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kawthaung]]|wikidata=Q978611}} — beach town in the far south which is as much like Thailand as Myanmar gets * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mandalay]]|wikidata=Q185518}} — former capital of the Konbaung Dynasty built around the Mandalay Royal Palace and main commercial centre of Upper Myanmar * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mawlamyine]]|wikidata=Q685941}} (''Moulmein'') — capital of Mon State and the third largest city * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pyin U Lwin]]|wikidata=Q1360318}} (''Maymyo'') — a cool town (in both temperature and attractions) which is a former British colonial hill station * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taunggyi]]|wikidata=Q1075566}} — capital of Shan State in the heart of the Golden Triangle * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Twante]]|wikidata=Q7857423}} — a delta town that is famous for pottery * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Yangon]]|wikidata=Q37995}} (''formerly Rangoon'') — the economic centre, known for its pagodas and colonial architecture == Other destinations == <!--Cities and Other destinations lists are limited to 9 items. Please first discuss proposed changes on this page's talk page.--> * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bagan]]|wikidata=Q29317}} — an archaeological zone with thousands of ancient pagodas near the banks of the Irrawaddy River, and a {{UNESCO}} * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Inle Lake]]|wikidata=Q1043461}} — a large shallow lake famous for boat trips, visiting floating villages inhabited by the Intha people, hiking, and also a source of excellent silk * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kengtung]]|wikidata=Q1027111}} — between [[Mong La]] (on the border with China) and [[Tachileik]] (on the border with Thailand) in the Golden Triangle, known for the ''Ann'' (black teeth people) and ''Akha'' tribes and trekking * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kyaiktiyo]]|wikidata=Q6450666}} — a gold-gilded rock sitting atop a cliff and a major pilgrimage site * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mount Popa]]|wikidata=Q1150764}} — an extinct volcano regarded as the Mount Olympus of Myanmar, a green oasis high above the hot plains and an easy day trip from Bagan * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mrauk U]]|wikidata=Q1951490}} — former capital of the Rakhine Kingdom, with many ancient pagodas that serve as a reminder of that era * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngapali]]|wikidata=Q19701446}} — beach resort in western [[Rakhine State]], on the Bay of Bengal * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ngwe Saung]]|wikidata=Q7023181}} — longest stretch of beach in Ayeyarwaddy (English: Irrawaddy) Division, white sandy beach and crystal clear water are the features of Ngwe Saung Beach * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pyay]]|wikidata=Q691747}} — a town on the Irrawaddy River midway between Yangon and Bagan, known for its archaeological site ''Sri Kittara'', the ancient Pyu capital from 2 to 9 CE * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Pathein]]|wikidata=Q870103}} — a river town in the Irrawaddy delta, known for manufacture of umbrellas, gateway to Chuang Tha and Ngwe Saung Beaches == Understand == {{quickbar|location=LocationMyanmar.png}} === History === Like most of Southeast Asia's countries, Myanmar's people and history is a glorious mishmash of settlers and invaders from all fronts. The Mon and the Pyu are thought to have come from [[India]], while the now dominant Bamar (Burmese) migrated through [[Tibet]] and, by 849, had founded a powerful kingdom centred on [[Bagan]]. The ethnic diversity of the region, and the dominance of the Bamar people in the central plains, set up the geopolitical struggles between them and the multitude of smaller ethnic groups surrounding, which have continued unabated until the present day. From the 9th century to the 19th century, the Burmese empire grew through conquests of [[Thailand]] ([[Ayutthaya]]) and India ([[Manipur]]), and shrank under attacks from [[China]] and internal rebellions. [[File:Bago, Myanmar (Burma) - panoramio (44).jpg|thumb|Resting Buddha statue in Bago]] Eventually, [[United Kingdom|Britain]] conquered Burma over a period of 62 years (1824-1886) and incorporated it into its Indian Empire, and King Thibaw, the last Burmese monarch, was exiled to [[Ratnagiri]] in what is today [[India]]. Like in their other colonies, the British maintained control partly through a "divide and conquer" strategy, in which they deliberately stoked tensions between different ethnic and religious groups, resulting in ethnic and religious conflicts that have never been resolved. For example, bureaucrats were imported from India, and other government positions tended to be manned by locals from the smaller ethnic groups. Burma was administered as a province of India until 1937 when it became a separate colony. During the Second World War, Burma was a major battleground as the Allies fought the Japanese for dominance over Asia. The [[Burma Road]] was built to get supplies to China. The Thailand-Burma railway (the so-called "Death Railway") from [[Kanchanaburi]] in Thailand over the River Kwai to Burma was built by the Japanese using forced labour &mdash; Allied prisoners-of-war, indentured Thai labourers, Burmese people and other Southeast Asians. They had to work in appalling conditions and a great number of them died (estimated at 80,000) during construction of the railway. Large parts of Western Burma, particularly the hilly areas bordering India and the city of [[Mandalay]], were severely damaged during the war. Burmese independence fighters led by '''General Aung San''' cooperated with the Japanese to oust the British at first; the Japanese promised to grant independence to Burma in exchange. However, life under Japanese occupation was even more brutal than life under British colonialism, and many Burmese were killed, such as in the Kalagong massacre. Aung San subsequently switched allegiance and helped the allies win Burma back from the Japanese. Aung San subsequently led negotiations with the British for Burmese independence after the end of World War II, and the British agreed in 1947 to grant independence to Burma the following year, though Aung San himself was assassinated later in 1947 and never lived to see his dream come true. Independence from the British under the name '''Union of Burma''' was finally attained on 4 January 1948, and General Aung San is regarded by most Burmese people to be their father of independence. The new union brought together various states defined by ethnic identity, many of whom had centuries-long histories of autonomy from and struggles against each other. In the interest of securing their collective independence from Britain, the tribes reached an agreement to submit to collective governance—with power sharing among the ethnicities and states—for ten years, after which each tribe would be afforded the right to secede from the union. The terms of this "Pinlon Agreement" were enshrined in the 1947/1948 constitution of the new Union of Burma. The new central government of the nation quickly worked to consolidate its power, marginalising and angering tribal leaders and setting off ethnic armed conflict that has continued unabated until the present day. In 1961, more than 200 ethnic leaders from the Shan people, Kachin people, Red Karen, Karen people, Chin peoples, Mon people and Rakhine people met with ethnic Bamar (Burmese) central government authorities to draft a new form of government which would ensure the tribes both autonomy and self-determination within a federal system. [[File:Aung San Suu Kyi December 2011 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Aung San Suu Kyi]] The new government was never formed. Nevertheless, up until Ne Win's coup in 1962, Burma was regarded as one of the most developed and fastest growing economies in Asia, and widely touted as a contender to be the next Japan. Military leader General Ne Win led a coup d'état which ousted the democratically elected government in 1962, and installed himself as leader. General Ne Win dominated the government from 1962 to 1988, first as military ruler, then as self-appointed president, and later as political kingpin. Under Ne Win's rule, widespread corruption and nepotism led the Burmese economy into a downward spiral from which it has never fully recovered. Pro-democracy demonstrations in 1988 were violently crushed, with general Saw Maung taking over in a coup and installing the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) to rule the country, now renamed '''Myanmar'''. Multiparty legislative elections were held in 1990, with the main opposition party - the National League for Democracy (NLD) - winning a landslide victory (392 of 489 seats). But SLORC refused to hand over power, instead placing NLD leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi (daughter of national hero Aung San) under house arrest, which she has endured for 14 of the last 20 years. Today Myanmar, a resource-rich country, suffers from pervasive government controls, inefficient economic policies, and rural poverty. What was once one of the richest and most developed countries in Asia has since slumped into poverty due to widespread corruption. The junta took steps in the early 1990s to liberalise price controls after decades of failure under the "Burmese Way to Socialism," but had to reinstate subsidised prices on staples in the face of food riots, upon which the democracy movement grafted its agenda. The government called out troops and the rioters were defiant until the monks intervened: standing between both sides, they told everyone to go home and they did. The riots caused overseas development assistance to cease and the government subsequently nullified the results of the 1990 legislative elections. In response to the government's attack in May 2003 on Aung San Suu Kyi and her convoy, the [[USA]] imposed new economic sanctions against Myanmar, including bans on imports of products from Myanmar and on provision of financial services by US citizens. [[File:NLD Flag from car Yangon.png|thumb|A National League for Democracy supporter in Yangon]] The summer of 2007 was marked by demonstrations against the military government which were again brutally suppressed. The demonstrations started in August, apparently in an uncoordinated manner, as a protest against a stiff hike in the price of petrol, but morphed into a more serious challenge to the government after three monks were beaten at a protest march in the town of Pakokku. The monks demanded an apology but none was forthcoming and soon processions of monks with begging bowls held upside down filled many cities (including [[Sittwe]], [[Mandalay]] and [[Yangon]]). Yangon, particularly the area around Sule Pagoda in the downtown area, became the centre of these protests. While the monks marched, and many ordinary citizens came out in support of the monks, the world watched as pictures, videos, and blogs flooded the Internet. However, the government soon suppressed the protests by firing on crowds, arresting monks and closing monasteries, and temporarily shut down Internet communications with the rest of the world. This led the US, [[Australia]], [[Canada]] and the [[European Union]] to impose additional sanctions, some targeting the families and finances of the military leaders. [[File:Protesters against the military coup.jpg|thumb|Protesters demonstrating against the 2021 military coup]] Following elections in 2010, Burma began a process of liberalisation that has led to a reduction or removal of sanctions by many nations including the United States. In 2012, Aung San Suu Kyi was elected to the Burmese parliament and allowed to travel to Europe and North America. Censorship of foreign and local news was also suspended. In November 2015, Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won a landslide victory in the nationwide legislative elections and Htin Kyaw, a close ally of Aung San Suu Kyi, became president. In April 2016, Aung San Suu Kyi took office as State Counsellor, a post equivalent to prime minister, making her Myanmar's ''de facto'' head of government. In February 2021, the military once again took power in a coup d'état after a landslide victory by the NLD. Country-wide mass protests and a civil disobedience movement sprung up in the aftermath; protests were brutally crushed as the army killed hundreds of NLD supporters and democratic activists. Thousands of NLD and other pro-democracy politicians, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and community leaders were arrested. Peaceful protests still occur sporadically while other groups of protesters have taken up arms against the military regime, particularly in the border regions. Western countries have re-imposed economic sanctions on Myanmar as a result of the coup. As of mid-2024, the junta controls less than half of the area of the country, and Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) have been successfully mounting co-ordinated attacks with increasing confidence. However, this brutal civil war still has no end in sight. ===Culture=== Myanmar's culture is largely a result of Indian influences intertwined with local traditions and Chinese influences. This can be seen in the various stupas and temples throughout the country, which bear a distinct resemblance to those in northern India. As in neighbouring [[Thailand]], Theravada Buddhism is the single largest religion. 88% of the population follows these Buddhist practices, and even some of the most remote villages will have a temple for people to pray at. Other religions which exist in smaller numbers include Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Animism and ancestor worship can also be found around the country, especially in the more distant, hill tribe regions. One pre-Buddhist tradition that survives in Myanmar is the worship of the '''''Nats''''', or traditional Burmese spirits, and you will see many spirit houses throughout the country dedicated to their worship. Following the spread of Theravada Buddhism, the worship of the Nats was incorporated into Burmese Buddhism, and they are today regarded as subordinates of the Buddha. ===People=== [[File:Burmese people 01.jpg|thumb|Boys in Yangon with thanaka paste on their faces]] The dominant ethnic group in Myanmar is known as the Bamar, from which the original English name of the country, Burma, was derived. Besides the Bamar, Myanmar is also home to many minority ethnic groups and nationalities which have their own distinct cultures and languages. In addition to the native ethnic minorities, Myanmar is also home to ethnic Chinese and Indians whose ancestors migrated to Myanmar during the colonial period, most visible in the cities of Yangon and Mandalay. Myanmar is divided into fourteen administrative divisions, seven regions and seven states; generally speaking, the regions are Bamar-dominated, while the states are dominated by the respective ethnic minorities. The government has been condemned by other nations for violence against the Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State, which borders Bangladesh. The government does not recognise them as citizens of Myanmar, but instead claims they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, a narrative embraced by the vast majority of Burmese despite the Rohingya's presence in Rakhine going back generations. Forced to flee to Bangladesh in large numbers, where they are also regarded as foreigners, many have lost their lives trying to seek refuge and work in Malaysia. Generally speaking, most Myanmar people are incredibly friendly and polite, and will do their best to make you feel welcome in their country. ===Politics=== Myanmar, officially the '''Republic of the Union of Myanmar''' (ပြည်ထောင်​စု သမ္မတ မြန်မာ​နိုင်​ငံတော်), is a presidential republic, with the president, who is appointed by the legislature, serving as both head of state and ''de jure'' head of government. He and his cabinet form the executive branch. The legislature is composed of the bicameral ''Pyidaungsu Hluttaw'' (Assembly of the Union), consisting of an upper ''Amyotha Hluttaw'' (House of Nationalities), and a lower ''Pyithu Hluttaw'' (House of Representatives). While a majority of the members of the legislature are popularly elected by the people, a quarter the seats are reserved for appointees from the military. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won a majority of seats in the 2015 election. As she is constitutionally barred from the presidency (by virtue of having married a foreigner), she instead served as the ''de facto'' head of government in the role of State Counsellor. As of February 2021, Myanmar is ruled by a military dictatorship. === Climate === Myanmar is considered to have 3 seasons. The hot season is usually from Mar–Apr. Temperatures then cool off during the rainy season from May–Oct. The peak tourism season is the cool season from Nov–Feb. Temperatures can climb as high as 36°C in Yangon in the hot season while in the cool season, noontime temperatures are usually a more bearable 32°C, with night temperatures falling to around 19°C. Mandalay is slightly cooler in the cool season, with temperatures falling as low as 13°C, while temperatures in the hot season can go as high as 37°C. Generally, Lower Myanmar, the area around Yangon, receives more rainfall than the drier Upper Myanmar (around Mandalay). In the highlands such as [[Inle Lake]] and [[Pyin U Lwin]], winter temperatures can fall below 10°C at night, while daytime temperatures tend to be very pleasant. Even in the summer, temperatures rarely climb above 32°C. Near the Indian border in [[Kachin State]], there are permanently snow-capped mountains. === Read === [[File:Haridaung-Mrauk U-Aussicht-06-Pagoden im Dunst-gje.jpg|thumb|View of Mrauk U]] * ''From the Land of the Green Ghosts'' by Pascal Khoo Thwe. A Cambridge-educated writer gives a touching account of his growing up as a Paduang-Hilltribe-Guyand in the difficult political environment before becoming a rebel. ({{ISBN|0007116829}}) * ''The Glass Palace'' by Amitav Ghosh. A novel that spans a century, from British conquest to the modern day. A compelling account of how a family adapted to the changing times; provides much insight into Burmese culture. * ''The River of Lost Footsteps'' by Thant Myint-U. Easily the most accessible history of Myanmar available. Read it before you go and you will marvel at how the once great and rich cities (like Martaban, Syriam, and [[Mrauk U|Mrauk-U]]) have become the dingy and smoky villages of today. ({{ISBN|0374163421}}) * ''The Trouser People'' by Andrew Marshall. The author follows in the footsteps of Victorian explorer, Sir George Scott. This book looks at lost British heritage as well as the Burmese tragedies occurring in the present. ({{ISBN|0140294457}}) * ''Finding George Orwell in Burma'' by Emma Larkin. The pseudonymous author, a journalist, posed as a tourist to travel around Myanmar in the early 2000s, before the government opened up the country to the world. She documents a country trapped in the past, attempts to distinguish sympathetic storytellers from police informants, and retraces Orwell's life in Myanmar, who went on to give the world the vocabulary to criticise the repressive police state which the country had since become. ({{ISBN|1594200521}}) * ''Burma Chronicles'' by Guy Delisle. A whimsical and humorous graphic novel about a family who moves to Yangon on assignment with an NGO in the mid-2000s. The protagonist, a stay-at-home dad, adapts to life in Burma with his infant son while his wife works long hours. An enjoyable and light read, this work does not dwell on human rights under the dictatorship, but rather focusses on the day-to-day life of the protagonist and the characters he meets. ({{ISBN|9781897299500}}) === Listen === * [https://insightmyanmar.org/ ''Insight Myanmar''] used to be a podcast about religion and spirituality, but it pivoted to providing news and interviews with experts following the military coup of February 2021. * ''[https://www.myanmarmusings.com/ Myanmar Musings]'' is the podcast of the [https://myanmar.anu.edu.au/ Myanmar Research Centre] at the Australian National University, Canberra. While much more academic than ''Insight Myanmar'', it still features interviews with a variety of experts on a range of historical and present-day topics relating to research on Myanmar. * [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-happening-in-myanmar/id1777519120 ''What's Happening in Myanmar''] is a news podcast that is useful for keeping up with the ever-changing political and military situation on the ground in Myanmar. === Holidays === * 4 January: Independence Day * January: Kayin New Year Day - 1st waxing of Pyatho * 12 February: Union Day * March: Full Moon Day of Tabaung * 27 March: Armed Forces Day * April: Thingyan (Burmese New Year) — the most important festival in Myanmar, in which people splash water at each other. Also known as the Water Festival, and similar to Songkran in neighbouring Thailand * May: Full Moon Day of Kason * July: Full Moon Day of Waso * October: Full Moon Day of Thadingyut * 19 July: Martyrs Day * November: National Day - 10 st waning of the moon of Tazaungmon * 25 December: Christmas Day === Units of measure === {{See also|Metric and Imperial equivalents}} Since 2013, Myanmar has begun adopting the '''metric system''' (SI), which is now used for weather reports, petrol prices, and speed limits, and ''new'' road signs. However, much usage of '''imperial system''' and the traditional '''Burmese units of measurement''' persist. Old road signs may use miles and miles per hour, and government websites inconsistently convert Burmese units to metric or Imperial. ===Tourist information === * [https://tourism.gov.mm/ Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism]{{Dead link|date=April 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website == Talk == {{see also|Burmese phrasebook}} [[File:Vendeurs de plantes médicinales vers Kyaiktiyo Paya.jpg|thumb|Burmese signs at a market]] The official language of Myanmar is '''[[Burmese phrasebook|Burmese]]''' (မြန်မာစကား ''mien ma za ga'') (known by the government as Myanmar), a Sino-Tibetan language related to Chinese and hence tonal (word pitch matters) and analytic (most words are one syllable long). It is written using the Burmese script, based on the ancient Pali script. Bilingual signs (English and Burmese) are available in most tourist spots. Numbers often are also written in Burmese script. Much vocabulary is derived from another ancient languages of Pali (at the time of Buddha) and [[Sanskrit phrasebook|Sanskrit]]. There are also many other ethnic groups in Myanmar such as the Mon, Shan, Pa-O, Rohingya and many others who continue to speak their own languages. While Burmese serves as the lingua franca in government-controlled areas, it may not be spoken at all in some separatist-controlled areas. There is also a sizeable ethnic Chinese community who speak [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] and/or various Chinese dialects. In Yangon, most of the Chinese are descendants from migrants from Fujian and Guangdong, and hence speak mainly [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]] or Taishanese, while in Mandalay, the Chinese are mostly descendants of migrants from Yunnan, and mainly speak the Yunnan dialect of Mandarin. Some areas are also home to various ethnic Indian communities who continue to speak various Indian languages. Myanmar is a former British colony and many Burmese understand at least some rudimentary English. Most well-educated upper class Burmese speak English fluently, while any educated Burmese will know at least the basics. Hotel and airline staff, as well as people working in the tourism industry generally speak a good level of English. == Get in == ===Entry requirements=== [[File:Visa policy of Myanmar.png|450px|thumbnail|right|Visa policy of Myanmar {{legend|#ED1C24|Myanmar}} {{legend|#22B14C|Visa free & eVisa}} {{legend|#FF7F27|eVisa (Business & Tourism)}} {{legend|#FFB583|eVisa (Business)}} {{legend|#FFC90D|eVisa (Tourism)}} {{legend|#ABABAB|Visa required in advance}}]] The visa situation in Myanmar is changing quickly and this has caused confusion even among immigration staff, and many guides and official websites are out of date. Check Wikipedia for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Myanmar visa policy]. ====Visa-free==== Citizens of the following countries may visit Myanmar without a visa for tourism provided they enter '''by air''', and their stay does not exceed the following number of days: *14 days: [[Brunei]], [[Cambodia]], [[Laos]], [[Philippines]], [[Thailand]] *30 days: [[Russia]], [[Vietnam]] Citizens of [[Singapore]] may visit Myanmar without a visa for up to 30 days regardless of mode of entry. These visa exemptions are strictly not extendable. All other travelers are required to apply for a visa in advance. ====E-Visa==== [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ E-Visa] are available for visitors from many countries, including most Western countries for US$50/tourist and US$70/business travelers (as of Jan 2020) through the [http://evisa.moip.gov.mm/ Myanmar Immigration's web-site], which take 3 days to process. However, there is also an express tourist e-Visa service available on the governments website for US$56 (rather than the standard US$50) taking 24 hr (though sometimes just a few hours). Check the e-Visa website for details on which nationalities this is available for. The visa is valid for 28 day for stays beginning up to 90 days from the date of issue, and is single entry only. In order to apply, you will need to upload a passport-sized colour photo, and payment which is only accepted by credit card. Permitted entry points are: Yangon International Airport, Mandalay International Airport, Nay Pyi Taw International Airport, and the longtail boat crossing from Ranong, Thailand at [[Kawthaung]] Tourist visas are valid for 3 months. The visa is valid for a stay of up to four weeks (from date of entry), although you can overstay if you are willing to pay a US$3 a day fee upon departure. Employment is ''not'' allowed on a tourist visa, and working runs you the risk of being arrested and deported. Successful applicants will also be issued an "Arrival Form", which will be stapled into your passport and must be presented on arrival in Myanmar, along with your passport containing the visa sticker. ====Visa on arrival==== As of October 2019, [http://www.mip.gov.mm/on-arrival-visa/ visas on arrival] are available for tourist and business visitors of some nationalities at Yangon, Mandalay and Naypyidaw airports. You must bring two passport-sized colour photos, and a letter of invitation from the company sponsoring your visa (for business visas). There is still some confusion at airports about this because official resources are not being updated to match changes but most tourists are not experiencing difficult- if you experience any insist you are eligible for a visa and ask for a senior staff member. Note: In August 2022 a directive from Myanmar to airline staff immediately (and inexplicably) suspended the Tourist Visa on Arrival for all nationalities. This has not been updated on government websites. Check well in advance at the check-in counter what the status is, and consider playing it safe with an e-visa. ====Visa at an embassy or consulate==== You can apply for all kinds of visas in a Myanmar embassy or consulate in many capitals and large cities around the world. See specific details like contacts, hours, etc. there&mdash;especially for [[Bangkok#Embassies|Bangkok]] and [[Chiang Mai#Consulates|Chiang Mai]] in Thailand, [[Delhi#Cope|Delhi]] in India, [[Hong Kong#Consulates|Hong Kong]] in China, and [[Washington, D.C.#Embassies|Washington D.C.]] in the US. Generally the visa application requires a completed visa form (available from the Myanmar embassy), a completed arrival form (again, from the embassy), a photocopy of the photo page from your passport, two passport-sized photos, proof of your occupation, and the applicable fee. === By plane === Myanmar's main international airport is located at '''[[Yangon]]''', the largest city and main economic centre. There are regular scheduled flights from Yangon to many major Asian cities. For travellers from outside the region, the easiest way to get into Myanmar will be to catch a flight from either [[Singapore]] or [[Bangkok]], both of which have large overseas Burmese populations, and are served by several daily flights into Yangon. Myanmar also has a second international airport at '''[[Mandalay]]''', which is served by several flights to the neighbouring countries. For a current list of airlines and destinations, see [https://www.yangonairport.aero/index.php/en/ Airport of Yangon]. The two main international airlines based out of Yangon are flag carrier '''[http://flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airines]''' and privately owned '''[http://www.maiair.com/ Myanmar Airways International]'''. ===By land=== Myanmar borders five countries: China, India, Bangladesh, Thailand and Laos. Foreigners are free to travel overland from Thailand into the Burmese heartland provided their Burmese visa is in order. Entering Myanmar from the other land border crossings, though, is a different story. At the very least, you must apply for special permits in advance, and you may need to join a guided tour in order for the permit to be granted. ====Thailand==== Four border crossings exist between Myanmar and [[Thailand]] at [[Tachileik]]/[[Mae Sai]], [[Myawaddy]]/[[Mae Sot]], [[Htee Kee]]/[[Ban Phunamron]] and the [[Three Pagoda Pass]]. The former three are open to foreigners, and there are no restrictions on foreigners travelling into the Burmese heartland from Myawaddy or Htee Kee. From Tachileik, travel beyond Keng Tung is not possible overland unless you are on a guided tour with a special permit. No visa-on-arrival is available though, so ensure that your Thai (if required) and Burmese visas are in order. ====China==== Foreigners can enter Myanmar at [[Muse (Myanmar)|Muse]] via [[Ruili]] (in [[Yunnan]]), although a permit (as well as a visa) and a guide are needed. You will most likely need to join an organized tour. Crossing in the opposite direction is more difficult to arrange and details are uncertain; however, it's possible to fly from [[Mandalay]] to [[Kunming]], and there's even a Chinese consulate that issues visas in Mandalay. ====India==== A land border crossing exists between [[India]] and Myanmar at Moreh/[[Tamu]] and is open to tourists who have vehicles and who are on foot or who have tours. As of 2023, Myanmar eVisas are ''not'' valid for entry at this border, so you'll need to get a visa in advance. This border is in politically unstable territory and there have been protests and two bomb blasts in the Indian town of Moreh (Oct 2019) which briefly closed the border. Tourists are generally advised not to loiter in Moreh, especially late at night- and to stay in Tamu on the Myanmar side if possible. It is no longer required to have a permit to visit the Indian state of [[Manipur]] which borders Myanmar. ====Laos==== The Myanmar-Laos Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River is the sole official border crossing between Myanmar and Laos. The bridge connects [[Shan State]] in Myanmar with [[Luang Namtha|Luang Namtha Province]] in [[Laos]], in a ''very'' remote region for both countries, and information on when (or whether) the crossing is operating is hard to find. As eVisas are not accepted for entry at this crossing, you'll need to get a visa in advance. ====Bangladesh==== It is not feasible to cross the border between Myanmar and [[Bangladesh]] independently. No border crossings exist between the two nations, and the Myanmar army has planted [[landmines]] along the frontier to discourage smugglers. ===By boat=== Small wooden longtail boats shuttle between [[Ranong]], [[Thailand]] and [[Kawthaung]], Myanmar. There is no fixed schedule; you just negotiate directly with one of the boat operators, and they will leave once a price is agreed on. Be sure to bargain hard or you might get ripped off. Boat operators may try you hustle you onto their boat before you find the immigration building to get stamped out; be firm and insist on going through immigration, or you will be considered to have left the country illegally. You will need to pay a US$10 or 500 Thai baht "stamping fee" to Myanmar immigration when entering or leaving via this checkpoint. If choosing to pay by U.S. dollars, be sure your bills are in pristine condition; even slight creases will cause your bills to be rejected. == Get around == Myanmar's infrastructure is in poor shape. Travel to certain regions is prohibited; for others, special permits must be obtained, and a guide/interpreter/minder may be mandatory - although whether these "guides" accompany you to look after you, or to keep you from going to places the government doesn't want you to see, is a question best discussed elsewhere. However, travel between the main tourist sites, namely Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon, is fairly straightforward. ===Restricted areas=== Much of Myanmar is closed to foreign travellers, and many land routes to far-flung areas are also closed (for example, to [[Mrauk U]], [[Kalewa]], [[Putao]], [[Kengtung]]). Due to longstanding ethnic conflicts, many ethnic minority areas are controlled by armed separatist groups and remain outside the control of the central government. Thus, while tourists can travel freely in the Bamar-majority Burmese heartland, travel tends to be restricted or circumscribed in ethnic minority areas. In theory, any tourist can apply for a permit to visit any restricted area or to travel on any restricted land route. In practice, it is unlikely that any such permit will be issued in a reasonable amount of time, or at all. Permit requests can be made locally in some cases (for example, requests for the land route to [[Kalewa]] can be made in [[Shwebo]]) but, in most cases, the request has to be made in [[Yangon]]. Requests to visit restricted areas must be made at the [http://myanmartravelsandtours.com/ MTT (Myanmar Travel and Tours)] office in Yangon (Number 77–91, Sule Pagoda Rd, Yangon). Applications for local permits can often be made at a local MTT office or at a police station. Local permits are available only for the following places & routes: *[[File:Pa-O women at restaurant stall, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Pa-O women at a restaurant stall]][[Kengtung]] - [[Tachilek]]. This used to be straightforward but the availability is now uncertain. *[[Mrauk U]] Chin/Zomi village tours. Easily available in Mrauk U, but must visit with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Myitkyina]] - [[Indawgyi Lake]]. Easily available in Myitkyina but must travel with a guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this for you. *[[Shwebo]] - [[Kalewa]]. A permit is necessary if going by road. It is uncertain whether one is required if going by boat. *[[Pa-O Self-Administered Zone]] in [[Shan State]] (including the Kakku Pagodas). Available in [[Taunggyi]], but must be accompanied by a local Pa-O guide. Your hotel or a local tour company can arrange this. All other permits must be obtained in Yangon. Permits for some places, such as Putao, are obtainable but need to be applied for well in advance Myanmar is not [[North Korea]], and you are free to walk around, go to shops and interact with the locals. However, with many of the more far flung places, and places restricted to foreigners, it is better to arrange your internal visa in advance. Companies that can help with internal visas: *[http://www.mrmyanmartravel.com Mr Myanmar Travel] *[http://www.remoteasia.com Remote Asia Travel] *[http://www.travelmyanmar.com Travel Myanmar] ===By plane=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Sample fares between important destinations (through local tourist agency)''' ! From !! To !! Approximate fare |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || US$95 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || US$85 |- | [[Bagan]] || [[Heho]] || US$65 |- | [[Heho]] || [[Yangon]] || US$85 |} The poor state of Myanmar's roads and railways make flying by far the least uncomfortable option when travelling long distances. Flag carrier '''[https://www.flymna.com/ Myanmar National Airlines]''' operates a network of domestic flights to many destinations across Myanmar from its hub in Yangon International Airport. Long known for its poor safety record, it has improved dramatically with the purchase of newer aircraft, and these days compares favourably with many of the private airlines in terms of both service and safety. There are also several private airlines operating domestic flights from Yangon. The private airline companies are usually on time, and even depart early (10-20 min), so be on time and reconfirm your flight and flight time 1–2 days before departure. Sometimes the itinerary might be altered some days before departure (meaning that you will still fly to your final destination on the scheduled time, but with an added or removed in between stop, e.g., Yangon-Bagan becomes Yangon-Mandalay-Bagan). This usually only affects your arrival time. En route stops have only 10-20 min ground time, and if it is not your final destination, you can stay inside the plane during the stop. All domestic flight from Yangon depart from Terminal 3, while international flights depart from Terminals 1 & 2. When taking a taxi from downtown to the airport, mention to the driver that you are on a domestic flight so you'll not end up in the wrong terminal. ===By train=== {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ '''Train travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Ordinary || Upper || Sleeper |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 16 hr || 4,600&nbsp;kyat || 9,300&nbsp;kyat || 13,000&nbsp;kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 6 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,500&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 4 hr || 550&nbsp;kyat || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 7 hr || 1,200&nbsp;kyat || 2,750&nbsp;kyat || None |- | [[Pyin U Lwin]] || [[Lashio]] || 16 hr || 1,900&nbsp;kyat || 4,400&nbsp;kyat || None |} Myanmar has an extensive rail network, a relic of British rule. Unfortunately, there has been little maintenance or growth since the British left. Trains are slow, noisy, uncomfortable, and prone to delays. Electrical blackouts are becoming rare but nonetheless never assume that air conditioners, fans or the electrical supply itself will be working throughout the whole journey. Most trains have upper class and ordinary class. Ordinary class has wide open windows, benches and can be packed with locals transporting their goods. Upper class has upholstered chairs, fans and is less crowded. Be careful putting your head out of the window as it is likely to be hit by a branch. Vegetation grows so close to the tracks that you can reach out and touch it. Tickets are cheap and tourists pay the same price as locals, but tourists cannot buy tickets on the train. At smaller stations, you may have to seek the stationmaster or use an interpreter to buy a ticket. Your passport is required when purchasing. [[File:Gokteik Viaduct, Southbound.jpg|thumb|The famous Gokteik Viaduct dates from 1899]] A journey on a train is a great way to see the country and meet people. The rail journey from [[Mandalay]], up hairpin bends to [[Pyin U Lwin]], and then across the mountains and the famous bridge at Gokteik, is one of the great railway journeys of the world. Trains in lower Mandalay, Yangon-Pathein and Yangon-Mawlymaing, are little communities of their own with hawkers selling everything imaginable. Sleepers are available on many overnight express trains, although in the high season you may want to reserve a few days in advance. Tickets go on sale three days in advance. At some stations there is a separate counter for advance bookings, or even a separate building (e.g., in Yangon). Food service is available on the express in both directions between Yangon and Mandalay. Except for the new bridge and rail line that connects [[Mawlamyine]] to points on the west side of the Salween River, the rail network is exactly the way it was in British times. The most-used line is the 325km line from Yangon to Mandalay with several trains a day. It is the only double line in Myanmar, and also the only one that is competitive in time with buses. The fastest trains take 15 hr for the 385km run, an effective rate of 25km/hour. A second line connects Yangon with Pyay, 9 hr for the 175&nbsp;km journey, with a branch heading off into the delta region town of Pathein. These tracks, the earliest constructed, are in poor shape. With the construction of the bridge across the Salween, it is now possible to go by train from Yangon to Mawlamyine, 8 hr for the 200km journey, and on to Ye and Dawei. From Mandalay, trains continue on to Myitkyina in Kachin State, 350km in 24 hr, and to Lashio. There are also rail connections between Yangon-Bagan and Mandalay-Bagan, but bus or ferry are better alternatives: the 175km from Mandalay to Bagan takes 10 hours. There is railway service between Yangon-Bagan. 16 hr, first class US$30, upper class US$40, sleeper US$50. (check new prices) Train tickets cannot be paid in dollars any more, and the government has abandoned the former dual-pricing structure that saw tourists pay inflated prices. === By boat === There is also a large river ferry network. Both are to a large extent run by the government, although there are now some private ferry services. The trip from Mandalay to Bagan takes the better part of a day, from Bagan to Yangon is several days. === By bus === {| class="wikitable" style="float:right;" |+ ''' Bus travel times/fares between destinations''' ! From !! To !! Time || Kyat |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Mandalay]] || 11 hr || 10,400 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Bagan]] || 10 hr || 12,000 |- | [[Yangon]] || [[Kyaiktiyo]] || 4 hr || 6,000 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Pyin U Lwin]] || 2 hr || 1,500 |- | [[Mandalay]] || [[Hsipaw]] || 5.5 hr || 4,500 |} Buses of all types ply the roads of Myanmar. Luxury (relatively speaking) buses do the Mandalay-Yangon run while lesser vehicles can get travellers to other places. Fares are reasonable and in kyat and buses are faster than the trains. Many long-distance buses assign seats, so it is best to book seats at least a day in advance. Because the roads are bad, avoid the rear of the bus and try to sit as far up front as you can. Long-distance buses also have an extra jump seat that blocks the aisle and, because it is not well secured to the chassis, can be uncomfortable (which also means that there is no such thing as a side seat where taller people can stretch their legs). A window near the front of the bus is always the best option. Even budget travellers will find themselves buying more tickets via their hotel or an agency rather than going to the bus company to buy it directly. Their offices are often located far from any tourist place and the cost of going there and back will most likely exceed the commission your hotel will get for selling you the ticket. Shop around and compare prices before buying your ticket as some vendors include a free pick-up from your hotel. A bus ticket scam seems to be popular in Yangon. While many make a stopover in Bago, they are told at their guesthouse or at the bus station it's not possible to buy tickets there in the direction to Mandalay. In a country where everything might be possible when it comes to transport, some people fall for this. Actually, this is not the case and tracking back to Yangon for a bus ticket up north is not necessary at all. Bago has a bus terminal with several bus offices. Buying your ticket at Bago might be slightly cheaper (depending upon your bargaining skills) and gives you more freedom for the rest of your journey. The adjoining table summarises travel times and approximate fares between important tourist destinations in Myanmar. Most bus fares have gone up with the fuel price rises, so the fares listed are rough estimates. === By pick-up === Old pick-up trucks run everywhere in Myanmar, cheaply ferrying men, women, children, and monks from one place to another. The rear of the truck is converted into a canvas-covered sitting area with three benches, one on each side and one running along the centre of the truck (some smaller trucks have only two rows), and the running board is lowered and fixed into place providing room for six or more people to stand on (holding on to the truck frame). Pick-ups are ubiquitous in Myanmar and every town has a central point somewhere from where they depart to places both near and far. Tourists who go off the beaten track will find them indispensable because often the only alternative is an expensive taxi or private car. The basics of pickups are fairly straightforward, wait till it is reasonably full before heading out. On well-travelled routes (Mandalay-Pyin U Lwin, for example), they fill up quickly and the journey is quick. On less well-travelled routes ([[Bhamo]]-[[Katha]], for example), passengers arrive (early, usually around 06:00), mark their place, and then hang around drinking tea and chatting until the truck fills up. When the pick-up does get moving, it may linger or go out of its way in the hope of picking up more passengers. The inside of a pick-up can be hot and uncomfortable. Passengers, packed in like sardines, face away from the windows (which are tiny) and into the truck. Standing on the running board can be tiring and tough on the arms. The window side seat next to the driver is very comfortable and well-worth the little extra that you have to pay, so it is best to go early and reserve that seat. === By car === [[File:20160729 traffic in Mandalay 5761.jpg|thumb|Busy street in Mandalay]] You can hire a private car and driver at reasonable rates to tour independently. The licensed guides at Shwedagon Paya in Yangon can arrange to have a driver with a car meet you at your hotel. Another way is to arrange for a car through a travel agency, though it can be quite expensive. You can "test" the driver and the car by driving around the city for 10 or 15 minutes. If you are satisfied, a departure date and time and per diem rates (inclusive of petrol) can be negotiated. Some guides are willing to travel with you to serve as interpreters. Traffic drives on the '''right''' in Myanmar, but confusingly, Myanmar has a mixture of left- and right-hand-drive cars, with the majority of vehicles being right-hand-drive as a result of being second-hand imports from Japan or Thailand. Road travel to tourist destinations is generally safe, although some roads may be rough. Highways are often 2-lane, and cars often pass one another recklessly. That being said, driving habits are not quite as aggressive as say, [[Vietnam]]. Allow two days to drive from Yangon to Bagan in fair weather. Pyay is a good stopover point. Allow a day to drive from Bagan to Inle Lake. In cities, it is considered illegal to cross an amber light without stopping. Despite having crossed 3/4 of the way, you will be required to stop in the middle of the road and make your way back in reverse! Accidents and fatalities are common. Night-time road travel is not recommended, and medical facilities are limited in rural areas. At government hospitals, bribes may be required for services. Make sure needles are new or carry your own. HIV is a major problem in Myanmar. ===By taxi=== All taxis (and by extension all vehicles for transport of people and goods) have red/white licence plates, while private vehicles have a black/white licence plate. Tourist agency-owned cars have a blue/white licence plate. ===By ride-hailing=== The main ride hailing app is '''[https://www.grab.com/mm/en/transport/ Grab]''', which took over Uber's former South-east Asian operations, including that of Myanmar. Uber's short-lived venture into Myanmar occurred just one year prior to its takeover by Grab. In common with Grab's operations elsewhere in Southeast Asia, cash is not required as you can use the Grab app to pay with your card, though cash remains readily accepted. === By motorbike === In Yangon, riding motorcycles is illegal. Mandalay's streets, on the other hand, are filled with them. === By bicycle === In many places you can easily rent a bicycle for about 1,500 kyat per day to move around in your own pace. Around Inle Lake, cycling is a relaxing way to get to the next village or lake viewpoint. Mandalay is laid out on a grid which makes it very easy to navigate while cycling. Tourists used to pedal bicycles around the sights of Bagan, across difficult sandy paths under the hot sun, however electric bicycles are now the norm. At around ten times the price of a conventional bicycle, they are well worth the money. === On foot === Cars and pedestrians may not follow the established rules, and crossing the road can be difficult. Drivers will almost never yield to pedestrians, even on striped pedestrian crossings. ==See== [[File:InleRowing.jpg|300px|thumb|Leg rowing, Inle Lake]] Myanmar has not been a popular destination in Southeast Asia as visitors have been largely deterred by the country's volatile politics and restrictions placed on travel. But the political and travel situation has been improving notably since 2015. The country is a true, unspoiled treasure trove, and should capture the imagination of anyone interested in culture and history. Walking around [[Yangon]] brings you back to the time of 19th-century British colonial rule. Sparkling-clean parks and temples stand side by side decayed colonial-style buildings and deep potholes. Its cultural and religious attractions, like the '''Shwedagon Pagoda''', add to the city's feel of exoticism, as do the smiles of the locals. Every street corner brings something new—and a short ferry over the river even gives you a glimpse of rural life in the country. Cities of cultural and historical interest close to Yangon are [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] with its Buddhist sights, the delta town of [[Twante]] known for its pottery, and the pilgrimage site of [[Kyaiktiyo]] with its gold-gilded rock balancing precariously over a cliff. It's definitely worth it to further explore the Bamar heartland. Unfortunately some outer fringes of the country are off-limits to foreigners, but it's always worth checking the latest situation with people on the ground as things move so fast that the Internet rarely if ever has correct information. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703742020).jpg|thumb|Pyin U Lwin]] The former city of [[Bagan]] is a gem, and gives a glimpse of what life in the 11th and 12th centuries here must have been like. Marco Polo described it as the "gilded city alive with tinkling bells and the swishing sounds of monks' robes". It is the largest and densest concentration of Buddhist temples, pagodas, stupas and ruins in the world. [[Mrauk U]] is a sleepy village today but its crumbling pagodas and temples remind of the early modern period, when it was the capital city of an empire involved in extensive maritime trade with Portuguese, Dutch, French and Arab traders. Within a daytrip from [[Mandalay]] is [[Inwa]], another former capital where ruins remain to remind visitors of its former glory. Also don't miss [[Pyin U Lwin]], a former British hill station with somewhat cooler temperatures. The country has its fair share of '''natural attractions'''. [[Inle Lake]] is popular with backpackers, and it is one of the few places that is starting to feel like a tourist trap. Still, a trip to Myanmar is not complete without a boat trip on the lake. It has a unique vibe with tribes living in stilt houses and paddling their traditional wooden boats with one leg. The country's long southwestern coastline also has a few '''beaches''', such as [[Chaung Tha]] and [[Ngapali]]. If you visit outside of the traditional holiday season, you might just have a beautiful white sand beach for yourself. Myanmar is a country inhabited with dozens of ethnic groups, but sites from the major '''independent Burmese kingdoms''' dating from the 9th century can be seen in sections of the country. ==Do== [[File:Chinlone Burma.jpg|thumb|Burmese men playing chinlone]] Myanmar is an excellent country for '''trekking'''. [[Kalaw]] is a centre for trekking, and has miles and miles of trails through mountains and hill tribe villages. [[Kengtung]] is also known for its hiking paths to hill tribe villages, while [[Hsipaw]] has some great treks to waterfalls. '''Birdwatching''' can be done around [[Inle Lake]]. Myanmar's national sport is '''chinlone''', played with a small rattan ball. The objective of the game is to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible without using one's arms or hands, and to do it as beautifully as possible. Spectacular '''scuba diving''' and unspoiled beaches abound in the Mergui Archipelago in [[southeastern Myanmar]]. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Myanmar kyat (official rates) | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;kyat | date=July 2025 | USD=2,100 | EUR=2,500 | GBP=2,800 | CNY=300 | THB=650 | SGD=1,600 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/mmk-burmese-kyat xe.com]}} {{infobox|Currency Games |Myanmar is still predominantly a cash economy. However, ATMs are widespread. In a misguided attempt to fight rampant black marketeering, the Myanmar government has a habit of ''declaring notes to be worthless'': this happened first in 1964. In 1985, the 20, 50, and 100 kyat notes were withdrawn again and replaced with new kyat notes in the unusual denominations of 25, 35, and 75, possibly chosen because of dictator general Ne Win's predilection for numerology; the 75-kyat note was introduced on his 75th birthday. In 1987, the government demonetized the 25, 35, and 75 kyat notes with no prior warning, rendering some 75% of the country's currency worthless. A new series of 15, 45, and 90-kyat notes was issued, incorporating Ne Win's favourite number 9. The resulting economic disturbances led to serious riots and eventually the 1989 coup by General Saw Maung. The post-coup notes come in more normal denominations from 1–1,000 kyat, and this time the old ones remain legal tender, so far.}} Myanmar's currency is the '''kyat''', pronounced "chat". Prices may be shown locally using the abbreviation of '''K''' (singular or plural) or '''Ks''' (plural) either before or after the amount and depending very much on who is doing the sign writing. The ISO abbreviation is '''MMK'''. Wikivoyage articles will use ''kyat'' to denote the currency. ''Pya'' are coins, and are rarely seen since their value has become increasingly insignificant with even the largest 50 pya coin worth less than US$0.001. Banknotes of Myanmar are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 kyats. You may also come across 20, 10, 5, and 1 ''kyat'' and 50 ''pya'' banknotes. They are valid but rarely found and best held onto as souvenirs. Older banknotes in strange denominations are sold to tourists and, while typically genuine, are rarely if ever valuable. The notes of 50 kyat, 100 kyat, 200 kyat, and 500 kyat are usually in a horrible condition, but are generally accepted when making small purchases. The 1,000 kyat notes are slightly better. 5,000 and 10,000 kyat notes always appear new after exchanging foreign currencies. When exchanging money, check that the banknotes you receive are in a generally good condition. If the exchange gives you kyat notes in horrible condition, you can ask them to exchange them for notes in better condition. Dispose of remaining kyat before leaving. Outside of Myanmar, kyat is almost worthless but do make nice souvenirs. Kyat cannot be legally exchanged abroad, though some money changers in places with large overseas Burmese populations such as [[Singapore]] will exchange anyway, but at terrible rates. Kyat can be exchanged on departure from Yangon Airport at decent rates. ====US dollars==== {{infobox|Is it safe?|So, you're travelling around carrying hundreds, if not thousands, of U.S. dollars stuffed into your pockets in a country where most people subsist on a few dollars a day. Everyone around you knows that if they could get their hands on the money in your pockets, they will be rich for life. What, you may ask, are the odds that someone will try to relieve you of your money? The answer: almost nil. There have been very few instances of a tourist being mugged and only the rare cases of pilfering. Myanmar is an extremely safe country for travellers. Some say it is because of the nature of the people. Others say it is because the punishment for robbing from a foreigner is draconian, whilst others say it is because of Buddhism, which prohibits people from taking what is not given.}} Foreigners are no longer required to pay in U.S. dollars for hotels, tourist attractions, rail and air tickets, ferry travel and for bus tickets. As of 2015, foreign currency instability and the weakening kyat means that many venues will state prices in U.S. dollars, even though it is illegal to do so. Expat restaurants still often quote in U.S. dollars despite actions from the Central Bank prohibiting excess dollar usage. It is illegal for a Myanmar citizen to accept (or hold) U.S. dollars without a licence, but this law is mostly ignored and U.S. dollars are generally accepted. Never insist, though, because it may be dangerous for the receiver. Bring very clean, unfolded U.S. dollars (or they will not be accepted by hotels, restaurants and money changers). Even small imperfections can be cause to reject a U.S. banknote. Keep all U.S. dollars in impeccable condition, and do not fold them. If you do end up with a few, try using them for purchases rather than exchange, or try to exchange them in a few different places. ====ATMs==== There are plenty of ATMs all across the country accepting international Visa and MasterCard. The bigger and more touristic the place the more ATMs it has. Smaller tourist destinations also have ATMs (Bagu, Hpa-An, etc.), but not so many. Make sure to carry a buffer outside of major tourist hotspots. If an ATM does not work, try the next one. Usual withdrawal limit is 300,000 kyat with a processing fee of 5,000 kyat. In case you run out of money, ask your taxi driver to drive you to the CB Bank ATM. '''Note''': Your bank may refuse to process ATM transactions with some/all banks in Myanmar, even if the ATM accepts Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank prior to entering the country. ====Credit cards==== Upmarket tourist places (hotels, agencies, restaurants) are accepting credit cards (and will surcharge accordingly). So you can even pay with mastercard in a store in the middle of Inle Lake for purchases value more than US$100. But nonetheless paper money is the only way to pay in most places. Beside the ATMs, there are places (e.g. hotels in Yangon) where cash can be obtained with a credit card (''cash advance''), but the rates are extremely uncompetitive (with premiums certainly no lower than around 7%, and with quotes of 30% and more frequently reported). Also, they may need to see your passport to process the transaction. For US citizens, it is also possible to receive funds from friends or relatives in an emergencies through the US Embassy. ====Money exchange==== The foreign currency of choice in Myanmar is the US dollar, though you can readily also exchange euros and Singapore dollars in Yangon and Mandalay, but perhaps not beyond. Other options are the Chinese Yuan and Thai Baht. The best rates are in Yangon and Mandalay. Major foreign currencies need to be in good condition—other currencies like rupees and baht are often accepted even if worn out. The military junta re-imposed currency controls in 2021, again leading to a yawning gap between the official rate (fixed at 2100 kyat/dollar) and the black market rate, which ranged from 3,400 to 5,600/dollar in 2024. Banks and money changers only sell kyat at the official rate. Exchanging on the '''black market is illegal''': sellers risking jail time and the junta periodically cracks down. Especially on holidays and Sundays, all your necessary money should be changed at the airport as banks in town are closed. Money changers offer significantly lower rates (5-10% lower) for changing US dollars and euros. The most hassle-free option is to change all your required money at the airport, depending on the rate to change it back. Look around different banks for the best exchange rate. Be sure to bring a mix of foreign denominations when visiting Myanmar because money changers will sometimes not give change and smaller notes (in good condition) are useful for some entry fees and transport. Even though, larger bills give the best exchange rates at banks. Ensure that foreign notes are: * Unmarked – No stamps, anti-counterfeit pen, ink or any other mark on them at all. Pencil can be removed with a good eraser, but any permanent marks will greatly decrease a note's value and ability to be exchanged. * Fresh, crisp and as close to brand new as possible – Moneychangers have been known to reject notes just for being creased and/or lightly worn. * Undamaged – No tears, missing bits and pieces, holes, repairs or anything of that sort. * Preferably of the new design, with the larger portrait, and the multiple-colour prints. Although, old-style US$1 are still commonly traded. * For US$100 bills, have no serial numbers starting "CB". This is because they are associated with a counterfeit "superbill" which was in circulation some time ago. '''Scams''': * There are a number of tricks and scams running around Myanmar trapping tourists who are carrying US dollars. Sometimes, guesthouses or traders will try and pass you damaged or nonexchangeable bills in change. Always inspect all notes when making a purchase and request that the vendor swap any notes you think you will have trouble using down the track—this is perfectly acceptable behaviour for both vendors and customers, so don't be shy. * Some money changers will also attempt sleight of hand tricks to either swap your good banknotes for damaged, or lower denomination notes. Other reports suggest that the kyats may be counted and then somehow, some disappear from the table during the transaction. For example, after going through an elaborate counting process for piles of ten 1,000 kyat notes, some money changers will pull some notes out as they count the piles of ten. * When changing money, be sure that, after any money is counted, it is not touched by anyone until the deal is sealed. Also do not allow your dollars or major foreign currencies to be removed from your sight until all is agreed; in fact, it is not even necessary to pull out your US dollars until your are paying for the kyats you received. It sounds extreme, but ending up in a country where you cannot access whatever savings you have, and having a good portion of your budget rendered useless (until you get to more relaxed changers in Bangkok) can really put a dampener on your plans. ====Travellers cheques==== Travellers cheques are '''not accepted''' in Myanmar. The only exception might be some especially shady money changer, but be prepared to pay an astronomical commission (30% is not uncommon). ===Shopping=== When visiting tourist attractions, you will likely be swarmed by local hawkers, many of them children, trying to sell you souvenirs. Be sure to [[Bargaining|bargain]] hard should you decide to buy from them. Owing to decades of repressive military rule, a great many service and travel-oriented companies have strong links to the military. These are vital ways for the military to earn money, particularly foreign currency. If you wish to avoid spending money at military-owned or military-associated businesses, download the [https://waywaynay.com/ Way Way Nay Boycott app]. ====Tipping==== Tipping is generally not practised by the Burmese themselves. However, given widespread poverty in the country, tips are certainly appreciated if you have been provided with exemplary service. Tips that are charged to a credit card almost never make it to the service staff, so if you wish to tip, make sure you hand it over in cash to the person who served you. ====Costs==== Despite being less developed, Myanmar is expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or Vietnam. This is particularly true of hotel prices in the main tourists areas, as demand far outstrips supply. Similarly, the lack of competition from budget airlines has also made domestic flights rather expensive. [[File:Maymyo also known as Pyin Oo Lwin (14703766279).jpg|thumb|Night market in Pyin U Lwin]] It's not possible to be comfortable on less than US$25/day (May 2013). Foreigners will likely be charged fees, including video camera, camera, entrance, parking and zone fees. Most managed tourist site charge for carrying cameras of any sort into the area. Double rooms with private bathroom are nearly always more than US$20, in Yangon a double room without bathroom costs US$20. Dorm beds are around US$10 (or US$8 if you accept to lose a lot of value) (Sep 2015). While you cannot save on accommodation, you can save on food. Street food can get as low as US$0.30 for 2 small curries with 2 Indian breads, US$1 for a normal (vegetarian) dish. Even in touristy places like Bagan dishes cost under US$1 (vegetarian) and US$2 (meat). A draught Myanmar beer (5%) is around 600 kyat, a bottle of Myanmar beer (650 ml) is around 1,700 kyat, a bottle of Mandalay beer (6.5%, 650 ml) around 1,200 kyat. ====What to buy==== * '''Antiques''' – Purchasing antiquities and antiques in Myanmar is at best a legal grey area with the 2015 passage of the new Antiquities Law, and often illegal for any item over 100 years old. Penalties include prison and fines. It is recommended to avoid purchasing antiques as a tourist, unless you're willing to get an export permit from the Ministry of Culture on your way out and you have enough knowledge to avoid the fakes. Replicas and fakes are rife in Bogyoke market and other anitque stores frequented by tourists. It is against the law to export religious antiques (manuscripts, Buddhas, etc.) * '''Art''' – The Myanmar Art market has exploded, with local artists' works going for good values in Yangon and Mandalay. Visit the numerous galleries in Yangon to get a feel for available works. Art is often related to Buddhism and the difficult socio-political situation, as well as more traditional Victorian-influenced subjects like markets, old women smoking cigars, tribal members, and monks. There is a lot of cheap/mass-painted and derivative works at Bogyoke Market. * '''[[Gemstones]]''' – Myanmar is best known as for its [[jade]] and [[rubies]] (the granting of a license to the French over the ruby mines in [[Mogok]] was one of the causes leading to the Third Burmese War), and also produces some really fine [[sapphires]]. These can be obtained at a fraction of what it would cost in the West. There are a lot of fakes for sale amid the genuine stuff and, unless you know your gems, buy from an official government store or risk being cheated. Bogoyoke Aung San Market and the Myanmar Gems Museum in [[Yangon]] has many licensed shops and is generally a safe place for the purchase of these stones. The jade market in [[Mandalay]] is also worth a visit, where most of the jade is brought from the mines to be sold to merchants, and you can observe merchants haggling over the prices of both raw jade and various jade items in all stages of the production process. You can also purchase some jade trinkets yourself, but be prepared to haggle, and make sure you do your homework before buying or you risk getting ripped off. * '''Lacquerware''' – A popular purchase, which is made into bowls, cups, vases, tables and various items, and is available almost anywhere. The traditional centre of lacquerware production is [[Bagan]] in [[Central Myanmar]], and most tours include a stop at one of the local lacquerware factories where you can purchase one of these. Beware of fraudulent lacquer ware, though, which is poorly made, but looks authentic. As a guide, the stiffer the lacquer, the poorer the quality; the more you can bend and twist it, the finer the quality. * '''Tapestries''' – Known as ''kalaga'', or ''shwe chi doe''. There is a long tradition of weaving tapestries in Burma. These are decorated with gold and silver thread and sequins and usually depict tales from the Buddhist scriptures (the ''jatakas'') or other non-secular objects from Burmese Buddhism (mythical animals, the ''hintha'', and the ''kalong'' are also popular subjects). The tapestry tradition is dying out but many are made for tourists and are available in Mandalay and Yangon. Burmese tapestries don't last long, so be warned if someone tries to sell you an antique ''shwe chi doe''! * '''Textiles''' – Textiles in Myanmar are stunning. Each region and each ethnic group has its own style. Chin fabrics are particularly stunning. They are handwoven in intricate geometric patterns, often in deep reds and mossy greens and white. They can be quite pricey, perhaps US$20 for the cloth to make a longyi (sarong). ==Eat== [[File:Outdoor café, Yangon, Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Outdoor café in Yangon]] Burmese food is influenced by that of India and China, yet unique. Apart from Burmese food, other ethnic traditional foods such as Shan food, Rakhine food, and Myeik food are also distinct. Rice is at the core of Burmese food, and good vegetarian food is widely available. Burmese food is often extremely pungent. Similar to neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, '''fish sauce''' (ငံပြာရည် ''ngan bya yay'') is a very popular condiment in Myanmar, and is used to flavour many dishes. Food is inexpensive at most restaurants (priced at 500–3,000 kyat per item at most local restaurants, but can go as high as 8,000 kyat at posh restaurants). There are many up-market restaurants in Yangon and Mandalay. The majority of low-to-mid-priced restaurants use a cheap blend of palm oil for cooking. This oil may be unhealthy, and common roadside restaurants should be avoided if you are at the slightest risk for hypertension, heart disease, or other fat- or cholesterol-related conditions. Higher class restaurants may use peanut oil instead. Specific dishes include: [[File:Chapati and mutton curry.JPG|thumb|Chapati and mutton curry]] * '''Curry''' &ndash; Burmese people have a very different definition of curry than other countries. It is very spicy compared to Indian and Thai options, and although you may find it served at room temperature in cheaper restaurants, in a typical Burmese home all curry dishes are served hot. Burmese curry does not contain coconut milk, unlike its other SE Asian counterparts, and has a large quantity of onion or tomato depending on region and cook's preference. Myanmar is the highest per-capita consumer of onions in the world. Quite often Burmese curries are cooked with lots of oil, much more than other regional curries. * '''Samosa thoke''' (samosa salad) &ndash; A popular street dish of chickpeas, potatoes, tomato, cabbage, mint and a smashed samosa. * '''Mohinga''' (pronounced ''mo-HIN-ga'') &ndash; A dish of rice vermicelli with fish chowder, usually accompanied by coriander and chili powder. Its taste can range from sweet to spicy, and is usually eaten at breakfast. It is considered by many to be the national dish, and is widely available throughout the country, albeit in different styles in different regions. * '''Mote lin-mayar''' (Couples snacks) &ndash; Small tiny pancakes with chives, chickpeas or quail eggs. * '''Sticky rice''' &ndash; Served plain or with turmeric or black rice * '''Nan Gyi Thoke''' (pronounced ''nan gyi thou'') &ndash; A special dish of rice noodle salad with chicken sauce. It is mostly eaten in mid-Myanmar. * '''Onnokauswe''' (pronounced ''oun-NO-kao-sui'') &ndash; A dish of thicker noodles in a thick soup of coconut milk with chicken. It is served with a variety of condiments accompanying it, ranging from fried fruit fritters to solidified duck blood. "Khao soi"("noodle" in Shan), often found on the streets of Chiang Mai, is derived from this Burmese counterpart. It is also comparable to the spicier laksa often found in peninsular SE countries like Malaysia and Singapore. * '''Shan food''' &ndash; The Shan are an ethnic group who inhabit Shan State around Inle lake, near the Thai border. Their food is marvelous. It can be found in Yangon easily. :* '''Shan tofu''' &ndash; Made with mung beans instead of soya beans these yellow blocks are served fried or in a cold noodle salad. :* '''Laphet thote''' (pronounced ''la-peh THOU'') &ndash; A salad of fermented tea leaves and a variety of fried nuts. It is commonly mixed with sliced lettuce, and is eaten with rice. * '''Chinese food''' &ndash; Available in most cities and usually authentic, if plain. * '''Kachin food''' &ndash; Mainly available in Kachin State, though a number of Kachin restaurants can be found in Yangon and Mandalay. Kachin food is less oily and uses less MSG than Burmese food, and you may find it a good alternative if Burmese curries are not to your liking. == Drink == '''Tap water''' in Myanmar is not safe to drink, however factory-made ice in restaurants and other shops is OK. '''Bottled water''' is readily available. You can also safely drink from the many clay jars dotted around the country, or find safe drinking water in temples. Just look for the large steel tanks with cups tied to the spigots. Water in the clay jars is filtered and many Myanmar people use them. Owners of the jars fill them up with water as a way to make merit. Similar to Chinese tea, ''Yenwejan'' is usually provided free at restaurant tables. While not flavourful, it is boiled water, and so safe to drink (do not drink plain water - even in restaurants - unless it is bottled water). Dried tea leaves similar to Laphet thote's tea leaves (except these are wet) are added to the boiled water to give ''Yenwejan''. Be sure to order it with ''Laphet thote'' (customary/good combination). '''Milk tea''' (လက်ဖက်ရည် ''La-Phet-Yay'') is also popular in Myanmar and widely available in the local markets and teahouses but beware: the Burmese like their milk teas very, ''very'' sweet. '''Alcohol''' is frowned upon by conservative Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, but consumed widely, mostly among men. Myanmar Beer is most popular in the country. Other variants, including Mandalay Beer exist. However, many of such companies are government-owned and/or have links to the drug trade. '''Toddy juice''' (''ta-YEI'') is popular in central Myanmar, and is made from fermented palm sugar. An alcoholic drink popular in the Shan State is '''Shwe le maw''', and is reportedly very strong. It is also possible to buy full strength Beer Chang imported from Thailand; exports to most countries are not nearly as strong. Beware of alcoholic drinks served in the far northern states. The locals refer to it as '''alcohol which does not burn''' when lit, and it is widely suspected to be an opiate concoction rather than a fermented beverage. There are a lot of nightclubs, including those attached to the five star hotels (e.g. Grand Plaza), and also local entertainment centres (e.g. JJs, Asia plaza). === Teahouses === [[File:Myanmar Tea House Food.jpg|thumb|Tea and snacks at a tea house]] Teahouses are important places of social gathering and popular throughout the country. They look like restaurants but if you watch closely you will notice that people are drinking a lot of Chinese tea (free), light brown tea and are mainly snacking. Some teahouses also offer simple dishes as fried rice or noodles. Once seated they will expect you to order coffee but that's not what you should go for as it is almost always instant coffee. Order tea, a type of black tea with milk that differ in strength and sweetness: *''bone mahn'': balanced *''cho seh'': sweet *''kyaw p'daung'': sweeter *''pan brown'': bitter and sweet *''jah hseent'': light, with milk, not strong *''pancho'': strong *''bow hseent'': less strong *''noe hseent dee'': milk tea without sugar You will completely mispronounce the tea names (second and sixth are relatively easy) and people might not get what you want at all since it's rare for foreigners to order these teas. So it's better to ask your hotel or any local speaking English to write down the names in Burmese. Since you are a foreigner they will assume that you want your tea ''sheh'' - special - which means it will come with condensed milk. It's also possible to order a ''tankie'' and so the tea will come in a big pot. A simple cup of tea costs 200-400 kyat. Small snacks like samosas, cakes or sweet balls are readily available at the table. If not, ask. At the end you will only pay for the number of pieces eaten. Foodies should check out the type of snacks before deciding on a teahouse. It is not impolite at all to bring your own food, as long as you order at least ''something''. == Sleep == [[File:Sule-Pagoda by-Night.jpg|thumb|Night in Yangon]] Myanmar has good hotel accommodation, particularly in major cities and the main tourist areas, though prices are substantially higher than in [[Thailand]] or [[Vietnam]]. Rooms with attached bath are available for under US$10 everywhere except Yangon and with shared bath for anywhere from US$3–6 in most places. Almost every hotel licensed for foreigners has running hot water (though, in remote areas, availability may be restricted to certain hours of the day). Hotels, with a few exceptions, are usually clean. At the budget end, sheets and blankets may be threadbare and the rooms may be poorly ventilated. A few low-end hotels, particularly in Yangon and other large cities, specialize in cubicle rooms, small single rooms with no windows which, while cheap and clean, are not for the claustrophobic. Rates are quoted as single/double, but the rooms are usually the same whether one person or two stay in the room, making good hotels a real bargain if travelling as a couple. Except at the top-end, breakfast is always included in the price of the room. The tourism boom in Myanmar has left its infrastructure struggling to cope with the increased numbers of visitors. Hotel rooms tend to sell out really fast, and those in popular tourist destinations often sell out months in advance. As a result of the lack of supply, prices have also increased substantially. You should make your hotel bookings well in advance of your planned trip to Myanmar in order not to be stranded when you arrive. Wild camping is not legal in Myanmar. Myanmar has a problem providing enough electricity to its people and power supply is severely restricted everywhere. In many places, electricity may be available only for a few hours each evening or, in some cases, only every alternate evening. If you don't want to spend your nights without a fan or air conditioning, ask if the hotel has a generator (most mid-priced hotels do). On generator nights, the air conditioning in your room may not work (the price is usually lower as well). Even if a hotel has a generator, there is no guarantee that it will be used to provide you electricity at the times you require, so be ready for blackouts at any time of day or night. Major tourist hotels in Yangon and Mandalay have near-uninterrupted electricity supply, but can cost anywhere from US$80–300 per night. At the top-end, Myanmar has some excellent hotels including one or two great ones (The Strand in Yangon and Kandawgyi Palace Hotel in Yangon). The Myanmar government runs many hotels, including some beautiful colonial era ones (though not the two listed in the previous sentence). A percentage of all accommodation payments goes to the government, no matter where you choose to stay, and it is not possible to run a successful business in Myanmar without some relationship or payment arrangement with the military. == Work == {{overseasjobscam|Myanmar, particularly in the areas along the Thai border. In many cases, victims are lured to Thailand with a job offer, then trafficked across the border into Myanmar}} Work in Myanmar for foreigners is hard to come by. NGOs and other aid groups operate in the capital and remote rural areas but may require specific skill sets to hire you. Another option is European and Asian companies, mostly operating on a small scale. Teaching English is feasible in private schools but many foreigners have reported unreasonable contracts, such as withholding pay and refusing to pay those who resign early. The education ministry only hires citizens with teaching certification. If you would like to work and assist Burmese refugees, certain NGOs work in neighbouring [[Thailand]]. == Stay safe == === Crime === The government punishes crime, particularly against tourists, severely; as a result, as far as crime and personal safety go, Myanmar is extremely safe for tourists, and it is generally safe to walk on the streets alone at night. In fact, you are less likely to be a victim of crime in Myanmar than in [[Thailand]] or [[Malaysia]]. However, as with anywhere else, little crime does not mean no crime and it is still no excuse to ditch your common sense. As a foreigner, the most common crime you should be worried about is petty theft, so keep your belongings secured. Physical and verbal harassment towards foreigners is uncommon, even on urban walks near bars. Since 2005, [[Yangon]] and [[Mandalay]] have seen a barely perceptible rise in the very low level of street robberies. There were isolated bombings in 2005 in Mandalay and Yangon, and in 2006 in [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]]. === Illegal substances === {{Warningbox|Drug offences are '''''severely punished''''' by the Burmese authorities. Convicted offenders can expect to face lengthy prison sentences. |us = https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Burma.html |canada = https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/myanmar }} ===Begging=== Despite traditional taboos against it, [[begging]] has become a major problem in the main tourist areas such as [[Bago (Myanmar)|Bago]] and [[Bagan]]. Children and "mothers" carrying babies are often the ones who beg as they are more effective at soliciting pity. Most beggars are part of larger begging syndicates or just after easy money, as tourists are usually seen to be rich. In addition, the poor can always obtain food for free from the nearest monastery if they can't afford to pay for it, so begging is not necessary for their survival. If you choose to give, note that most Burmese earn only US$40 a month doing manual labour and so giving US$1 to a beggar is ''very'' generous. ===Fake monks=== Theravada Buddhism is the main religion in Myanmar, and it is customary for monks to go on alms rounds in the morning. Unfortunately, there are also many bogus monks who hang out around the main tourist attractions preying on unsuspecting visitors. Alms rounds are solely for the purpose of collecting food: genuine monks are forbidden from accepting, or even touching money. Monks are forbidden from eating after noon, and are also not allowed to sell items or use high pressure tactics to solicit donations. Authentic monks are often found in single file lines with their alms bowls. If you see a single monk requesting money from foreigners he is a fraud. === Corruption === Myanmar is one of the world's most corrupt countries. Officials and other civil servants may discreetly ask you for a bribe, or invent issues (missing forms, closed offices, etc.) in order to get you to suggest one. Pretending not to understand or asking to speak to a superior may work. However, white visitors are rarely targeted, while those of Asian descent (including South Asians and East Asians) may be forced to give bribes, but the brunt of the problem hits normal Burmese. Westerners are very rarely asked for bribes, although most bribes are a US dollar or less, and requested by people earning as little as US$30/month. === Driving conditions === [[File:Jampacked car in Kalaw (Myanmar 2013) (11773361556).jpg|thumb|One of many right-hand drive vehicles imported from Japan into Myanmar. These cause inherent visibility problems when driving on the right side of the road]] The poor road infrastructure, and a mixture of extremely ancient vehicles on the country's roads are all what best describe the road conditions. However, driving habits are not very aggressive compared to say, [[Vietnam]], which does make the safety of the roads comfortable for almost everyone. Although rare, youths sometimes compete against each other on the roads, which has led to some casualties over the past few years. Bus drivers are among the worst dangers, although this is somewhat less of an issue since 2010 due to new, very harsh penalties imposed on bus drivers involved in accidents. Surprisingly, Burma has a mixture of both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, with the majority being right-hand drive (used imports from Japan) but driving is generally done on the right side of the roads. Unless you have experience driving in countries with poorly disciplined drivers and very shabby vehicles, try to avoid driving in Myanmar; alternatively, arrange for a local driver to take you around. === Civil conflict === Various insurgent groups continue to operate in the '''Mon, and Chin (Zomi), states''' of Myanmar, along the Thai and Chinese borders. Travel to these regions generally requires a government permit. The government also sometimes restricts travel to '''Kayah State, Rakhine State, and Kachin State''' due to insurgent activity. However travel is entirely unrestricted to the districts of Yangon, Bago, Ayeyarwady, Sagaing, Taninthayi, Mandalay, and Magwe. Some areas that have been reported as closed have become open without notice, and areas previously regarded as open can become closed with no warning. In addition, local immigration offices may have their own interpretations of regulations. === Politics === [[File:Propaganda, Myanmar 2.jpg|thumb|"Tatmadaw [Armed Forces] and the people in eternal unity. Anyone attempting to divide them is our enemy."]] Myanmar is again under harsh military rule as it was from 1962 - 2012, with a reputation for repressing dissent, as in the case of the house arrest of democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi. There used to be more than 1,500 political prisoners (sentences of 65 years and hard labor in remote camps were given to leaders of the Saffron Revolution), although some have been released. When in Myanmar, abstain from political activities and don't insult the government. Discuss politics, if you must, with people who have had time to get a feel for you. The danger, however, is primarily posed to those you speak with, so let them lead the conversation. Also, realize that many phone lines are tapped. And if you absolutely must wave a democracy banner on the street, you'll simply find yourself on the next outbound flight. Between 2012–2020, liberty in general increased under the new government. A few politically critical articles have been published in government newspapers and a satirical film deriding the government's film censorship policy has been released, neither of which would have been possible even in 2010. Returning visitors to Myanmar may find that locals have become ever so slightly more open to discussions regarding politics. However, under any circumstances avoid doing things that might make the military or police feel uncomfortable, such as taking pictures of police and police buildings or vehicles. == Stay healthy == Hygiene in Myanmar may seem terrible to the average Westerner but it is possible to stay healthy with some basic precautions such as prophylactic medication, care choosing food and water, and antibacterial ointment. '''Never drink [[tap water]]'''. Restaurants are legally required to use ice made and sold by bottled water companies, so ordering ice is usually safe in major places. Always drink bottled water and check that the cap is sealed on, not simply screwed on. Diseases such as [[dengue fever]], [[Japanese encephalitis]] and [[malaria]] are endemic. Drug-resistant strains of malaria and tuberculosis are common in many areas. Hepatitis vaccinations are highly recommended and the cholera oral vaccine is worthwhile. At the dinner table, Burmese use a spoon and fork, or their fingers when this is more convenient. You might feel better rinsing all of them before meals. Antibacterial wipes or alcohol hand-rub is a good idea at regular intervals. As in many developing countries: "if you can't fry, roast, peel or boil it - then forget it". ===HIV=== The rate of HIV infection in Myanmar is high by Western and Asian standards (0.7% of the population in 2019). ===Healthcare=== Myanmar's healthcare system is poorly funded. If you should fall sick in Myanmar, you can visit the doctor in major cities for minor ailments. However, for more serious medical care, hospital conditions tend to be unsanitary and there is often a shortage of medical supplies. The only hospital that comes close to modern developed standards is Pun Hlaing Hospital, a privately owned hospital which is in a remote township of Yangon called Hlaing Thar Yar, and one should expect very high expenses there. Most of the hospitals are government owned, which means poorly funded. Most of the government officials and rich locals go to [[Thailand]] or [[Singapore]] for more serious medical treatment and hospitalisation, and you will be better off doing so too. Make sure you get travel insurance as arranging to be airlifted in an emergency is rather costly. The clinic formerly operated by the Australian Embassy in Yangon closed in 2018. There is a good [https://myanmarmix.com/en/directory/international-sos-clinic-yangon international medical clinic] at the Inya Lake Hotel in Yangon for consulting, testing, radiology and minor surgery. == Respect == {{infobox|Naming conventions|Unlike in many other cultures, there is generally no concept of a family name, patronymic or matronymic in Burmese culture, and most individuals only have a given name. For example, the 8th President, '''Htin Kyaw''', only has a given name with no family name, patronymic or matronymic, and would be addressed as Mr Htin Kyaw by most English speakers. Often, a Burmese honorific, usually '''U''' (ဦး) for men or '''Daw''' (ဒေါ်) for women, may be added to the beginning of the name, so he may be addressed as ''U Htin Kyaw''.}} [[File:Mrauk U - 0002.jpg|thumb|400px|[[Mrauk U]], the old capital of Rakhine in Myanmar]] Modest clothing is highly appreciated everywhere except nightclubs, and practically required in religious places such as pagodas, temples and monasteries (of which there are thousands). Miniskirts, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed in consecrated areas, where you also have to remove your footwear, so loafers and flip-flops that you can slip on and off at the entrance are preferable. Myanmar has some of the most stunning temples in Asia and you will be tempted to visit more than you think. In Myanmar, you have to remove your footwear before entering the entire temple complex, including in outdoor areas. You might want to bring some wet wipes so you can clean your feet after visiting. Burmese people generally do not engage in public display of affection, even among married couples, and it is generally considered distasteful and should be avoided. Both men and women wear a ''longyi'', a sort of sarong sold everywhere, and it is not unusual to see Caucasian foreigners walking around in them. They are wrapped in different ways for men and women, so find out how to tie yours. If you turn up at a temple in inappropriate dress, you can always rent a longyi for a pittance. When giving and receiving '''business cards''', always use your right hand with the palm facing up, and your left hand supporting your right elbow. As the left hand is traditionally reserved for dirty things, handling business cards with it is considered to be very rude. Tourists of Caucasian descent are commonly referred to as ''bo'', which translates to "officer", a linguistic relic of colonization. Address elders with ''U'' (pronounced "oo", as in s'''oo'''n) or "Uncle" for men, and ''Daw'' or "Auntie" for women. Generally speaking, despite the common negative perception of the government, most ordinary Burmese people are incredibly friendly and polite as long as you respect their local customs. Customer service is in general very good (some say better than in [[Thailand]]) but customer service staff are invariably poorly paid, so you might wish to tip service staff generously to ensure your money goes into the right hands. ===Politics=== Avoid discussing relations with the Rohingya and the ongoing ethnic cleansing as this is a very sensitive and emotive issue that can potentially escalate into a confrontation. The vast majority of Burmese people regard the Rohingya as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh who have no right to be in Myanmar, and their Muslim religion is seen by many as a threat to Buddhism. Most Burmese people are offended when the Rohingya are referred to as such, and will insist that you use the term "Bengali" to refer to them instead. Tread carefully when discussing relations with [[China]]. Even though both the military junta and Aung San Suu Kyi had developed close ties with China and invited Chinese investment in Myanmar's infrastructure, this is strongly opposed by many pro-democracy activists. While the pro-democracy view on China have largely improved due to alleged Chinese support towards anti-junta ethnic armed organisations, China's policy has equally dissatisfied or even angered pro-junta groups. ===Religion=== {{see also|Buddhism#Respect}} Buddhism is the largest religion in the country, followed by roughly 80-90% of the population. Many Burmese people are religious and fundamentalist Buddhism has seen growing support in the 21st century. As in neighbouring Thailand, monks collect alms in the morning and adhere to strict rules such as abstaining from physical contact with women and not touching money. It is customary for Burmese men to spend time living as a monk at least once in their lifetime. Donations to monks should be spontaneous and given in the form of food only, not money; monetary donations should be placed in donation boxes in temples. If you see a monk with money in his alms bowl, he is fake. Monks are not allowed to eat after noon, so if you see a monk going on alms round after noon, he is fake. Buddhist monks are highly respected, and it is essential to show them respect. Always ask for permission before taking a photograph or touching a monk. It is also important to behave appropriately in their presence. If you are on public transportation, it is customary to give up your seat for them as a sign of respect. Showing any form of disrespect to Buddhism is taken '''very seriously''' in Myanmar and you can expect to be treated with '''no degree of leniency''' if you've been accused of disrespecting Buddhism. Disrespecting Buddhism encompasses things like wearing something with Buddha on it, having a tattoo of Buddha, depicting Buddha in an inappropriate way, and so on. Foreigners have been jailed for disrespecting Buddhism, so be careful about what you say and what you do. Do not speak negatively about religion; it is illegal, under Burmese law, to "insult" religion. What counts as "insulting" religion is very broadly defined and open to interpretation. Refrain from engaging in religious discussions with the Burmese. Swastikas are commonly seen in Buddhist temples and '''should not''' be conflated with anti-Semitism and Nazism. ==Connect== === Telephone === Country Code: +95 International Call Prefix: 00 Phone numbers in Myanmar have the format <code>+95 1 234-5678</code> where "95" is the country code for Myanmar, the next one, two, three or four digits are the area code and the remaining 6, 7 or 8 digits are the "local" part of the subscriber number. You can buy GSM/4G sim cards at International airports or any convenience store. Standard sim card costs around 1500 Ks. Some operators may offer special sim for tourists. There are 4 mobile operators in Myanmar, MPT (Government+KDDI), Telenor, Ooredoo and MyTel (Military+VietTel). MPT in the largest in Myanmar in terms of network coverage and user. Operators offer similar price plans. Generally, standard plan offers voice calls for 20 Ks - 25Ks/min, SMS at 15 Ks - 20 Ks/message. Pay as you go data plan offers around 7 Ks/MB but specific data plan will offer around 1000 Ks/GB or cheaper. Prices for IDD and roaming service vary depending on the operators and destination countries. If you are going to use in urban area only for local call and data, there is not much difference between operators. If you are going to visit remote area, please check which operator is available at there. If you are going to use IDD or roaming, you may wisely choose by checking offering price at their websites. === Mail === International mail out of Myanmar is reportedly quite efficient, despite what some hotels might tell you. As elsewhere, there is always a risk if you send valuables as ordinary parcels. Use EMS for fast, and relatively cheap international parcels. === Internet === Country's telecommunication sector was revolutionized in 2013 and speed is steadily increasing and price become cheaper. As of 2020, free Wi-fi is available at almost every Hotels. Unlike other countries, Myanmar hugely rely on 4G Internet than cable or Wi-fi. Surprisingly, Yangon has 4th-fastest 4G speeds in East Asia despite the fact that it had slowest speeds in Asia before 2013. Seamless 4G Internet is available in every city, town and along major highway roads. Even a small village is likely to be covered with at least 3G Internet unless it is in highly remote or armed conflict area. Data costs are around 1000 kyat ($0.8)/GB. There are also cheaper fancy data plans depending on operators. MPT is largest mobile operator and Telenor is second. 4G sim cards are available at International airports and any convenience store. With the extended coverage of 4G and smart phones, once dominant Internet cafes are getting out of business and turn into gaming stations. In case of you need to access Internet urgently, you can use at those gaming stations but extensive file downloading is not welcome for it can effect their gaming experience. Facebook and Viber are the most used apps and services in Myanmar. {{isPartOf|Southeast Asia}} {{usablecountry}} {{geo|22|96|zoom=5}} agl3ahrtxnv7665w20qg9rhj5l7h7n0 0 23734 5091221 5084249 2025-07-11T07:08:31Z DaGizza 162256 /* Drink */ Updated listing for Havana: 5091221 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Nairobi_banner.jpg}} {{featurenomination|dotm}} '''Nairobi''' is a city of 4.4 million (2019) on the Nairobi River. It is the political, financial and media capital of [[Kenya]], and a transit point that most travellers to Kenya will pass through. Nairobi is the largest and fastest growing city in Kenya, and one of the largest cities in Africa. It is worth taking a few days to experience this bustling metropolis. ==Understand== [[File:Colors_of_nairobi.jpg|alt=Colors of Nairobi|thumb|Colours of Nairobi]] [[File:Central park (2123739957).jpg|thumb|Central park]] ===History=== The word Nairobi is derived from a water hole known in Maasai as Enkare Nyorobi, which means "cool waters". Nairobi, which had been a swamp area, was founded in 1899 as a railway camp for the Uganda Railway. By 1905, the city had become the capital of Kenya (then the British East Africa Protectorate), supplanting [[Mombasa]] and [[Machakos]], the previous capitals. With the spread of plagues in the early 1900s, the town was burnt down and had to be rebuilt. Having a railway helped it to grow rapidly, becoming the second largest city in Kenya behind Mombasa. Nairobi also grew due to administration and tourism businesses (mostly big game hunting). The British presence led to the creation of big hotels primarily for the British hunters. After independence, some descendants of the British settlers remained in Nairobi and obtained Kenyan citizenship, and today form Kenya's white community. Nairobi has an East Indian community, who are the descendants of the labourers who built the railway and the merchants who set up shop during colonial times. After independence, Nairobi airport became the principal entrance point to Kenya and it still is today, although it has lost some of its importance to Mombasa. ===Climate=== {{Climate |location = Nairobi ([[Dagoretti]]) 1961–1990, extremes 1955–1982 and 1984–present |janhigh= 25.5 |febhigh= 26.7 |marhigh= 26.8 |aprhigh= 25.0 |mayhigh= 23.5 |junhigh= 22.5 |julhigh= 22.0 |aughigh= 22.7 |sephigh= 25.0 |octhigh= 25.7 |novhigh= 24.0 |dechigh= 24.5 |yearhigh= 24.5 |janlow= 10.5 |feblow= 10.9 |marlow= 12.1 |aprlow= 13.4 |maylow= 12.1 |junlow= 10.0 |jullow= 9.2 |auglow= 9.1 |seplow= 9.7 |octlow= 11.3 |novlow= 12.7 |declow= 11.7 |yearlow= 11.1 |janprecip = 58.3 |febprecip = 49.8 |marprecip = 92.2 |aprprecip = 242.3 |mayprecip = 189.5 |junprecip = 38.6 |julprecip = 17.6 |augprecip = 24.0 |sepprecip = 31.2 |octprecip = 60.8 |novprecip = 149.6 |decprecip = 107.6 |yearprecip = 1061.5 |description = Source:[[:w:Nairobi#Climate]] }} Nairobi has a subtropical highland climate. At 1,795 metres above sea level, evenings may be cool, especially in the June/July season, when the temperature can drop to 9 °C. The sunniest and warmest part of the year is from December to March, when temperatures average in the mid-twenties Celsius during the day. The mean maximum temperature for this period is 24 °C. ===Local information === * [http://www.nairobi.go.ke/ Nairobi City Government]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website ==Get in== For general information about visas and vaccinations, etc., see the [[Kenya#Visa|Kenya]] article. ===By plane=== * {{go | name=JKIA Jomo Kenyatta International Airport | alt={{IATA|NBO}} | url=https://www.kaa.go.ke/airports/our-airports/jomo-kenyatta-international/ | email= | address= | lat=-1.319167 | long=36.9275 | directions=is {{km|15}} south-east from the centre of the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Jomo Kenyatta International Airport | image=Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).jpg | wikidata=Q206349 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=Nairobi’s main airport, and one of Africa's largest hubs. Terminal 1A section is linked to Terminal 1B and 1C by walkways both airside and landside. Terminal 1A has a small food court upstairs airside, and there is a Nairobi Java House between the two terminals airside. Terminal 1B is completed since renovations in 2022 and it serves departures. Terminal 1C has very little except for 10 small shops all selling the same souvenirs. Terminal 1A has a two small shops with a better selection of duty-free and souvenirs. There are Ecobank & Cooperative bank & I&M no withdrawal fee ATMs at the airport or at the cargo terminal. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Wilson Airport | alt={{IATA|WIL}} | url=https://www.kaa.go.ke/airports/our-airports/wilson-airport/ | email= | address= | lat=-1.321719 | long=36.814833 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1049288 | content=11 km (7 mi) south from the city's centre, handles some domestic flights and general aviation. }} ==== Airlines ==== [http://www.kenya-airways.com Kenya Airways] (KQ) is the national airline of Kenya, and used to be one of the largest and most reputable airlines in Africa, providing extensive connections from international cities including London, Amsterdam, Paris, Dubai, Mumbai, Johannesburg, Antananarivo, Accra, [[New York JFK]] (a direct 15-hr flight), and a host of other countries around the world. Due to mismanagement and corruption, the airline has losses of US$120 million in 2019 and US$330 million in 2020. Other major commercial airlines to serve NBO include: Air Arabia, Air Mauritius, Air France, Lufthansa, British Airways, Brussels Airlines, China southern airlines, Egypt Air, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Etihad Airways, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Saudi Arabian Airlines, RwandAir, Swiss International Airlines and Turkish Airlines. ==== Transfers ==== * If taking a '''taxi''' from JKIA, use a reputable taxi. Many are waiting outside to give you conveyance, and the cost should be very near Ksh 2,000 to the city centre; Westlands or places more west or north will be more. There is an official KAA taxi desk just after you exit the customs area, where you can buy a fixed-price voucher, and they will escort you to a taxi. When taking a taxi to your accommodation, do not be inveigled into taking their recommendation for accommodation. '''Uber or Bolt''' costs from Ksh 900 from airport to the centre. * '''Airport Bus:''' To the city centre, Airport Bus #34 for Ksh 100 (as of 2023). You get the bus by walking on the road from the international airport terminal to the cargo terminal, or from in front of the Ambassador Hotel on Moi Avenue in the city centre. 6:00-20:00. The bus trip can take 2 hours in bad traffic, and may be inconvenient if you have big luggage. There is no official taxi desk at Wilson, and each airline operates out of its own terminal. It may be difficult to arrange a reputable taxi on arrival, but there are plenty at the kerb. ===By train === Nairobi has become much more accessible by rail. [http://krc.co.ke '''Kenya Railways'''] has opened the '''SGR''' railway in 2017 linking Nairobi and [[Mombasa]], reducing travel time between the two cities to 5/6 hours. There are both express and slower intercity services, the latter stopping on more intermediate stations. Tickets cost Ksh 1000 for 2nd class and Ksh 3,000 for 1st. The difference between the first and 2nd class is just the size of seats. As the train is very popular it is recommended to buy tickets a few days beforehand. Trains operating on the SGR line call at '''Nairobi Terminus''', which is almost 10 km southeast of city centre. A connecting commuter train to the central station is available. there are now 3x trains a day from Nairobi to Mombasa 1x is a night train. As of June 2023 there is 2x weekly train service from Nairobi from [[Nanyuki]] via [[Nyeri]]. The train departs Nairobi old central railway station at 09:30 every Tuesday and Friday and takes six hours. The fare is Ksh 200 in 3rd class and Ksh 1000 in 1st class. there is also 1x weekly train from Nairobi to [[Kisumu]] every Friday which cost ksh 600/2000 and takes 12 hours. * {{go | name=Nairobi Terminus | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=10 km southwest of city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q64869892 | lastedit=2020-11-12 | content= }} * {{go | name=Nairobi central railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6959799 | lastedit=2020-11-12 | content=Central railway station and hub for Nairobi commuter trains services. }} ===By bus=== Nairobi is the centre of Kenya’s (mostly reliable) bus system. There are many bus companies operating to and from the country’s different cities. *[[Mombasa]] Use the SGR railway, it take less than half the time of the bus and costs 50% less. *[[Arusha]] in Tanzania 5½ hr by '''Modern Coast'''. [http://www.arushashuttle.com/ Arusha Shuttle]. *[[Kisumu]], [[Eldoret]], [[Kitale]], [[Kericho]] by [http:///www.easycoach.co.ke '''Easy coach''']. *[[Kampala]] 12 hr by '''Modern coast''', '''Dreamline''' or '''Mash Poa'''. ===By matatu=== Matatus (11- to 18-seater minibuses) and shuttles (6-seater cars) are convenient, inexpensive (and often the only) modes of public transport for connecting Nairobi with towns and tourist destinations in the Rift Valley and Central Highlands such as Naivasha, Nyeri, Nanyuki, Isiolo, and Thika. Matatus can be obtained from the River Road area. Extreme caution should be exercised in this area because petty theft is a major concern; avoid showing valuables such as mobile phones, even while in the matatu (see safety section below). The best method of connecting to a matatu is to arrange for a taxi to drop you off and pick you up directly at the location of the matatu that you are boarding or alighting from. If you're boarding a matatu from Nairobi, tell the taxi driver your destination and they will drop you off at the correct location. If you are being picked up, then tell the taxi driver the location you're coming from as well as the matatu company that you are using (your ticket should have the operator's name). It is best to arrange for a taxi from the hotel you're staying at. The price is dependent on the distance of travel. * from/to [[Naivasha]] (Ksh 300) 1½ hr * from/to [[Nanyuki]] (Ksh 700) 11 seat. 3 hr * '''Prestige Shuttle''', Dubois Road, has 10-seat vans going from Nairobi to and from [[Nakuru]] and [[Kisumu]]. Ksh 600/1200. * '''North Rift Shuttle''' behind the Afya Centre has 10-seat vans going from Nairobi to and from Eldoret. from Ksh 900. * Impala shuttle Parkside hotel 25 monrovia street, next to jeevanjee gardens [https://www.impalashuttles.com impala shuttles] ===By boat=== Entry into Nairobi by boat is not possible (Nairobi River is not navigable), however one could certainly arrive in Kenya by boat via Mombasa or Lamu, proceeding by road, air or rail to Nairobi. Immigration should be processed at the port facility. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|-1.28289|36.82184|zoom=15}} Be careful getting around Nairobi. Traffic is very bad like any other major city, but if you use common sense and a local or guide you should be able to get where you want. ===By hired car=== [[File:University of Nairobi (1443451262).jpg|thumb|Road by the University of Nairobi]] Hiring a car is convenient as it allows you the freedom to explore Nairobi at your own pace. Most rental companies in Nairobi offer self-drive and chauffeured options respectively. You will find that a large fleet of cars available for hire are Japanese: Toyota, Nissan or Mitsubishi. You can hire both automatic and manual transmission. All rental cars are right-hand drive. Hiring a vehicle with a driver or chauffeur is advisable due to the generally lower standards of driving, average to poor road conditions and the overall cost effectiveness of not having to pay a deposit on hiring a vehicle which is the case with a self drive vehicle. Car rental prices vary but as of April 2015 the going rates were as follows: # Saloon car, e.g. Toyota Axio NZE, Toyota Fielder, Nissan Wingroad: (4 seater, under 1800cc, FWD) Ksh 4,000 per day. # 4X4 compact car, e.g. Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xtrail, Suzuki Vitara: (4 seater, 4X4 2500cc. AWD) Ksh 8,000 per day. # Large 4X4, e.g. Toyota Prado, Mitsubishi Pajero: (4X4 luxury, Jeep 3500cc, AWD): Ksh 16,000 per day. # 7 seater minivans, e.g. Toyota Voxy or Alphard: (7 seater, 2500cc, FWD): Ksh 10,000 per day. # Safari vans, e.g. customised Toyota Hiace with a pop out roof: (8 Seater, 2500cc, 4WD): Ksh 10,000 per day # Safari Jeep, e.g. customised Toyota Land Cruiser J70 jeep with a pop-out roof: (8 seater, 3500cc, 4WD): Ksh 14,000 per day. The car rental rates are often determined by the number of days and estimated mileage per day. Some car hire companies will give you a rate that is 50% cheaper but either give you a contract with a clause limiting you to visit the specific locations, an old car or require a hefty deposit. The rates are cheaper if you are hiring the car for a week, a month or are looking for a lease. Most car rental rates include unlimited mileage, PSV comprehensive insurance, theft and damage waivers. The driver and fuel are charged separately with some companies requiring that you hire a driver if you are taking a large 4X4/4WD (e.g. a Toyota Prado, Land Cruiser j70, Range Rover, Land Cruiser VX, Land Rover discovery). The cost of a driver is Ksh 2500 per day inclusive of meals and accommodation (April 2015). Although a good number of local car hire companies are reliable, you should either take photos of the car before the hire, or carefully note the dents or scratches on the car and agree. In addition, carefully read the rental contract to check for rules on insurance liabilities in case of accident or theft of the vehicle. Here are some reliable car hire companies in Kenya: # [http://kenyafinestholidays.com/index.php/transport Kenya Finest Tours & Safaris]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} offers reliable transport services especially for landcruiser 4x4 and Nissan Safari Vans. # [http://gorillasafarisrwanda.com Nairobi Car Hire] offer good services for 4x4 and other categories of cars. # [http://www.carhirekenya.com Central Car Hire] are a reliable, trustworthy and helpful rental company based in Nairobi. Two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles are available and are well maintained. # [http://www.hireddrive.com/kenya-car-hire/nairobi/ Nairobi Car Hire Services] provided by Hire N' Drive Kenya Limited who are very flexible with their rental terms and reliable. They accept credit card payment online with a very credible refund processing system. They also have a wide fleet of cars available at all major airports in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret. # [http://www.elitecarrentalkenya.com Elite Car Rental Kenya] although their offices are located in Kikuyu Town, they are a reliable car rental company and have been in operation since the mid-1990s. # [https://www.avis.co.ke/ Avis Rental] the local representative of the global business. Services are dependable with a variety of self drive vehicle options. # [http://www.shoortravel.com/carhire.html Shoor Kenya - Car Hire]{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} which offer safari and saloon vehicle hire including drivers at highly reasonable pricing. # [https://www.carrentals.com/car-company/hertz-car-rentals-nairobi-airport-nbo.v-tla/ Hertz Car Hire] are also represented in Kenya and offer pick up and drop off at the international airport in Nairobi. For ease of navigation around town and to the outskirts, it is advisable to use the Google Map. The navigation guide can be combined with other useful apps such as to help you get a better experience. For ease of search and navigation to secure parking lots, you can use [https://www.pataparking.com/ '''Pata Parking''']{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, a smartphone app which is downloadable from '''[https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.spf.parkingfinder&hl=en Google Play Store]'''. The app enables drivers to search and pre-book for parking, with details of location, charges per hour, features of the preferred parking lot, and the number of reservable parking spaces. * {{listing | type=go | name=Explorer Kenya Safaris | alt= | url=https://www.explorerkenya.com/safari-vehicle-hire-kenya/ | email=info@explorerkenya.com | address=Garden Estate Road. Victory House. 3rd Floor. Apartment 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 722218260 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-02-15 | content=Offering safari 4x4 Land Cruisers and safari vans for use in Nairobi and on safari }} ===By taxi=== Taxis are neither very cheap nor prevalent. Prices should always be negotiated before the trip, and paid afterwards (only cash is accepted, often with limited change available). This can be tricky as it requires you to be knowledgeable on the market rate price of the ride you wish to take. Typically, taxis can be found parked around hotels, malls, and tourist areas. The taxis tend to be marked with a yellow line on each side. Your best bet is to ask a local or enquire at your hotel. The taxi [https://www.nairobiarushashuttles.com/ services] [https://www.uber.com/en-GB/cities/mombasa Uber], [https://bolt.eu/cities/nairobi/ Bolt (formerly Taxify)], [https://little.bz/ Little]{{Dead link|date=April 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [http://mondoride.com/ Mondo Ride]{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, and [https://maramoja.co.ke/ MaraMoja]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} have become the hired car provider of choice among Nairobi's large expatriate population due to its convenience, cost competitiveness, and higher quality of service when compared to other taxi providers. If you want a pre-arranged taxi with consistent pricing, you can try [https://davinacabs.com/ Davina Cabs]{{Dead link|date=May 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. They have cab service in Mombasa, Nairobi, Kisumu and have an office in Eldoret. ===By bus (matatu)=== Matatus (public minibuses/commuter buses) are generally used for travelling between downtown [https://www.nairobiarushashuttlebus.com Nairobi] and the suburbs. Matatus vary in size, between the van sized 14-seat matatus and the larger 50-seat [https://impala-shuttles.com buses]. While generally safe, matatus are involved in a high number of accidents every year. Matatus are often overcrowded with more people than seatbelts and therefore can be dangerous if involved in accidents. Because there are no licensing requirements, matatus are often poorly driven, with drivers passing on curbs, speeding, or passing in oncoming lanes while cars are oncoming. On each bus is a conductor who will hang out of the matatu and call out a price (usually Ksh 50-100 as of 2020) and location the matatu is driving. The government banned the 14-seat matatus inside Nairobi to reduce traffic and accidents in town. The best choice is probably the City Hoppa bus service, the revived Kenya Bus Service and the newly introduced Electric busses (2025). Beware of traffic jams on the major highways, not only in the rush hours. ===By train=== *There is a commuter rail service from the Central Nairobi Railway Station going to Syokimau Railway Station. Syokimau Railway station is where you take trains going to Mombasa. *Train departures from the downtown Nairobi railway station going to Syokimau are at 6:35, 8AM, 9:35, noon, 17:30 and 18:20. From Syokimau the train departures are 6:20, 7:15, 8:50, 14:30 and 20:20. The trip takes 30 minutes. A one-way ticket costs Ksh 50-100 (as of 2023). *There are four rail commuter lines in Nairobi: ::1.Nairobi main station from Kahawa which departs Nairobi at 8AM, and from Kahawa back to Nairobi at 9AM. ::2.Nairobi main station from Embakasi Village Station. It departs Nairobi station at 7:20, 9:30, 11:20, 13:30, 18:00 and 18:30 from Embakasi village station back to Nairobi station departs at 7:00, 8:00, 10:15, 12:10, 14:20 and 19:15. ::3.Nairobi main station to Kikuyu station. ::4.Nairobi main station to Syokimau station. ===By foot=== [[File:Green_nairobi.jpg|alt=Green nairobi.jpg|thumb|Green Nairobi]] Walking around Nairobi is fairly easy since the city is small and places are easy to get to. However, there are some areas within the city where tourists should not go, and walking around at night should be minimised. Thugs are rampant in many areas. The city centre may be considered safe by some to venture on foot, but it can't be considered a pleasant experience. Expect to be approached by beggars, touts, etc. === By cycle === Cycling is quite uncommon in the city and most roads are not at all suited for safe cycling. With that said, there are a few protected cycle lanes within the central district and the government are keen to expand them into a small network. ===By road=== Car hire from the airport is possible, and fairly painless with prices in line with other African countries. Travelling during the day reduces your chances of getting car-jacked as most car-jackings occur after dark, but even so, carjacking can still happen at any time of day, even with a strong police presence. However, watch out for undisciplined drivers, as they take little regard for safety. ==See== Nairobi is known as the safari capital of Africa, however the city has still managed to keep up with modernization. Unlike other cities, Nairobi is surrounded by 113 km² (70 mi²) of plains, cliffs and forest that makes up the city’s Nairobi National Park. The city is filled with many things to do during the day and the night. Tourists can have their pick from numerous safaris (wildlife, cultural, sport, adventure, scenic and specialist), ecotourism tours, restaurants, culture, shopping and entertainment. While in Nairobi, tourists can also engage in numerous sports from golf, rugby, athletics, polo, horse-racing, cricket and football (soccer). * {{listing | type=see | name=Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) | alt= | url=http://www.mappedtravel.com/nairobi/1388/kenyatta+conference+centre/detail.php | email= | address= | lat=-1.28894 | long=36.82267 | directions=Central District | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Ksh 400, Ksh 200 reduced | wikidata=Q3272625 | content=The best place to get that far ranging view over the sprawling, congested metropolis that is Nairobi. You can go up to the saucer-shaped top of the conference centre's round viewing tower and depending on smog and fog, you might be able to see as far as the slums and the national park. }} * {{see | name=August 7 Memorial Park | alt=US Embassy Bombings Memorial Site | url=http://memorialparkkenya.org | email= | address= | lat=-1.28904 | long=36.82696 | directions=Central District | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Ksh 30 | wikipedia=1998_United_States_embassy_bombings | wikidata=Q4820629 | lastedit=2024-06-14 | content=In 1998 a truck bomb blast rocked downtown Nairobi. The US Embassy building had been the target of a terrorist attack, reducing it to rubble and killing 213 people, mostly bystanders, and leaving more than 4,000 injured. On the same day, the US embassy in [[Dar es Salaam]] was also subject to a similar attack which killed 11 people and injured 85. 21 people were charged, including Osama Bin Laden. The former embassy site today contains a memorial park, with a monument engraved with the names of every victim. }} * {{see | name=Westlands by night | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-1.26333 | long=36.80186 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Visit the bustling and hip Westlands district, which has turned into the new nightlife centre of Nairobi. Many restaurants and bars line the busy Woodvale Grove and Mpaka Road. A visit to 'Tree house' club is a must if you are looking for a spacious one and crowd outnumbered with expats, rather than the otherwise congested natives dominated ones. Traffic can become hectic, well into the early hours. Security is generally tight and the action spills out from packed clubs into the street. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=UN Office at Nairobi | alt=UN Complex Gigiri | url=https://kenya.un.org/en/about/about-the-un | email=un.tours@un.org | address=United Nations Ave | lat=-1.23466 | long=36.8165 | directions= | phone=+254 20 762 2034 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=United Nations Office at Nairobi | wikidata=Q1021627 | content=Sitting between the Karura Forest and the US Embassy, it houses international organisations such as the UN Environmental Programme, UN-HABITAT and is the basis of all UN operations in Africa. Africa's first completely carbon- and water-neutral building was opened here in 2011. Guided tours allow tourists to see the major buildings and gifts from member states and walk along a nearby nature trail, while learning about the history and work of the UN. }} * {{see | name=Nairobi Mamba Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Mamba Village, Langata N Rd | lat=-1.33354 | long=36.75044 | directions= | phone=+254 714782653 | tollfree= | hours=09:00-18:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2020-08-17 | content=Kind of an adventure-tourism park with Nile crocodile feedings, tortoise holding, ostrich viewing, horse/dromedary rides, and boat rides. One croc feeding takes place on Sundays at 16:30. Also a restaurant on site. }} ===Museums=== [[File:Nairobi National Museum 05.JPG|thumb|Nairobi National Museum]] * {{listing | type=see | name=Nairobi National Museum | alt= | url=http://www.museums.or.ke/ | email= | address=Museum Hill | lat=-1.273954 | long=36.814584 | directions= | phone=+254 20 3742131 | tollfree= | hours=8:30AM-5:30PM | price= | wikidata=Q2595707 | content=Where visitors can learn about Nairobi, its history and culture. The museum was founded in 1910. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=National Railway Museum | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/nrailwaymuseum/ | email= | address= | lat=-1.29321 | long=36.82490 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q611606 | content=Visitors can learn more about the history of Kenya’s railways and the Kenya/Uganda railway. It also houses some of the engines and rolling stock from the country’s colonial period. }} * {{see | name=Nairobi Gallery | alt= | url=http://www.museums.or.ke/nairobi-gallery/ | email= | address=P.O. Box 40658-00100 | lat=-1.2867 | long=36.8179 | directions= | phone=+254 20 216566 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109229332 | content=This is a museum housing only special exhibits, so the featured artwork is always changing. }} [[File:Karen Blixen House, Nairobi, Kenya (22288985045).jpg|thumb|Karen Blixen House]] * {{listing | type=see | name=Karen Blixen Museum | alt= | url=http://www.museums.or.ke/karen-blixen/ | email= | address=P.O. Box 40658-00100 | lat=-1.351810 | long=36.712114 | directions= | phone=+254 20 8002139 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q367631 | content=Of interest if you have read Karen Blixen’s book ''Out of Africa'' or the movie. Her house is now the home of the museum. You have to be accompanied by a guide to visit the house, but you can walk around the gardens on your own. If you're not into the movie, and don't know the history of the house, then it may not be worth your while taking the hour or so it takes, and the price of admission. The house has little remaining original furnishings, but there are some of the props used in the movie here (although the movie wasn't filmed here - it was create on a set). It is on the outskirts of Nairobi (in the suburbs of Karen) and a taxi or bus can get you to the museum. It's not too far from the Elephant Orphanage and the Giraffe Centre, so these attractions can easily be combined in a single trip. }} * {{see | name=Bomas of Kenya | alt= | url=http://www.bomasofkenya.co.ke | email= | address=Langata/Forest Edge Road | lat=-1.336762 | long=36.769449 | directions= | phone=+254 20 891391 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Portrays Kenya’s culture. Visitors can see exhibits of traditional Kenyan homes, artifacts, dances, music, and song. }} ===Parks=== [[File:A lone giraffe in Nairobi National Park.jpg|thumb|Skyline from Nairobi National Park]] * {{listing | type=see | name=[[Nairobi National Park]] | alt= | url=http://www.kws.go.ke/parks/nairobi-national-park | email= | address= | lat=-1.35360 | long=36.82240 | directions=just outside Nairobi | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q739993 | content=This is home to large herds of zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, giraffe, lion, cheetah, hippo, and birdlife (over 400 species). Here you can also go on the Nairobi Safari Walk, an educational centre to make people aware of wildlife and habitat conservation. Also in the park is the Nairobi Animal Orphanage. }} * {{see | name=Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage | alt= | url= http://www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/ | email= | address= | lat=-1.33711 | long=36.78001 | directions=close to the Nairobi National Park | phone=+254 736 919321 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:00 | price= | content=They take in orphaned elephants from all over Kenya, and keep them until they are able to survive in the wild. Visiting hours are daily at 11:00, so you should aim to arrive about 10 minutes before that time. You will be admitted and the elephants will be fed in two groups for around an hour. After than there is a brief time to shop and look around, and it closes again around 12:30. If you are willing to sponsor an elephant for US$50, you can make an appointment to see your elephant put to bed at around 17:00. These brief visiting times are to ensure that the elephants are not overly exposed to humans. }} * {{see | name=Giraffe Centre | alt= | url=https://www.giraffecentre.org/ | email= | address= | lat=-1.37655 | long=36.74455 | directions=in Lang'ata, about 20 km from Nairobi CBD | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Ksh 1500/750 for non-resident adults/children | wikipedia=Giraffe_Centre | image=Giraffe feeding.jpg | wikidata=Q5564103 | lastedit=2021-09-27 | content=The centre breeds the endangered Rothschild giraffe and has conservation/education programmes for Kenyan children. It also has many warthogs and leopard tortoise. You'll receive food to feed the giraffes, and get close enough to touch them. Just outside/opposite of the centre is a (free) nature hiking trail which is popular among residents. In August 2021 the centre was undergoing renovations but remained open, though with limited access to the giraffes. }} [[File:City view from Uhuru Park, Nairobi.jpg|thumb|City view from Uhuru Park]] * {{see | name=Uhuru Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-1.28841 | long=36.81717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | lastedit=2021-09-27 | content=Spacious park in the city centre. Attractions include a monument, playground, boat rental. }} * {{see | name=Uhuru Gardens | alt= | url=https://www.museums.or.ke/uhuru-gardens/ | email= | address=Langata Road | lat=-1.325139 | long=36.798472 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7878033 | lastedit=2024-08-22 | content=Built in remembrance of the struggle for independence, which Kenya was granted in 1963. The monument is a 24-m (79 ft) high triumphal column supporting a pair of clasped hands and the dove of peace, high over a statue of freedom fighter raising the flag. The monument is surround by fountains and lush-landscaped gardens. Not to be confused with "Uhuru Park" (which is in the city centre). As of August 2024 the park was closed and undergoing construction. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Arboretum Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-1.2781 | long=36.8028 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6959773 | lastedit=2017-03-29 | content=Very nice park to walk and to relax from the hectic town. Because of entrance fee you will not be molested by beggars, sellers, etc. }} [[File:Karura Forest Nairobi 05.JPG|thumb|Karura Forest Nairobi]] * {{see | name=Karura Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-1.24 | long=36.834 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Ksh 600 for non-residents | wikidata=Q6373728 | lastedit=2021-09-27 | content=has an area of 1 063 ha, making it largest of three main gazetted forests in Nairobi (the others are Ngong Forest and Ololua Forest). One of the best forest parks to walk, run, ride, picnic relatively close to the city. It is safe, well marked and a very nice place to relax and enjoy nature. The River Cafe is a good place to rest. Bicycle rental for Ksh 500/2 hours. (Single use) plastic are not allowed. Usually quiet on weekdays but gets very busy on weekends (Sunday). Attractions include a small waterfall and some monkeys. }} * {{see | name=City Park | alt= | url=http://www.jambonairobi.co.ke/activities/picnic/nairobi-city-park/ | email= | address= | lat=-1.2624 | long=36.8257 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-10-18 | content=The city park is a good place to spend leisure time without any disturbance within an indigenous forest and with lots of sykes monkeys. They are trustful and come close due to being fed by visitors frequently. As they expect food from the visitors they get moody if you have nothing. On weekends and national holidays the park becomes very lively. There are some nature trails, but not really safe for foreign tourists. Another highlight of the City Park is the vegetables and fruits market in one corner of the park near Lumuru Road. Avoid going into the forest when it is dark. It is not safe. The park is not a must go destination, but worth to visit if you have extra time. Entry to the park is free. }} === Religious sites === * {{listing | type=see | name=Jamia Mosque | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/JamiaMosqueNairobi | email= | address= | lat=-1.28337 | long=36.8207 | directions=Central District | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6146433 | content=While Jamia Mosque is tucked away in between other buildings there are striking views to be glimpsed of its intricate structure from many different angles. Easily the most impressive religious structure in the capital, the interior is off-limits to non believers }} * {{see | name=All Saints' Cathedral | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q85740870 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Cathedral of the Anglican Church of Kenya, built in 1924. }} * {{see | name=Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4451415 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Striking modernist Catholic Church Cathedral designed in 1960. The Basilica is the seat of the Archdiocese of Nairobi. }} * {{see | name=Khoja Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q42843020 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Built in a Victorian architecture style in 1922 by the Isma'ilism community led by Aga Khan. }} * {{see | name=Nairobi Synagogue | alt= | url=https://www.nairobisynagogue.org | email= | address= | lat=-1.2805 | long=36.8151 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The only functioning synagogue in East Africa. }} ===Around Nairobi=== * {{see | name=Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park | alt= | url=http://www.kws.go.ke/content/ol-donyo-sabuk-national-park | email= | address= | lat=-1.138769 | long=37.263694 | directions=65 km from Nairobi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Centred on a 2,146m (7,141 ft) mountain, this is mountain forests and plains, with a large population of Buffalo. It also serves as a refuge for Colobus monkeys, bushbuck, duiker, leopard, and a large variety of bird species. Another attraction is to climb the '''Kilimambogo mountain'''. A good starting point is the [http://oldonyosapukresort.co.ke/ Ol Donyo Sapuk Resort] where you can find a guide too. It is a 9-km hike to the top of the 2,145m-high mountain which takes about 3 hours with pit-stops at the observation area with a scenic 180-degree view as well as Macmillan’s burial site. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Tana River | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=An hour's drive from the city | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q331162 | content=White water rafting throughout cataracts, which leads to the 14 falls, can be done here. The rafting trip also includes a full BBQ lunch. }} * {{see | name=Kiambethu Tea Farm, Limuru | alt= | url=http://www.kiambethufarm.com/ | email= | address= | lat=-1.1239 | long=36.6882 | directions= | phone=+254 729 290894 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:00-14:30 | price= | lastedit=2017-06-10 | content=A beautiful tea farm, about 40 minutes away from the city centre of Nairobi. The farm house is set within beautiful gardens surrounded by acres of tea and indigenous forest - home to the colobus monkey and plenty of other wildlife. }} [[File:Backflip at Fourteen Falls.jpg|thumb|Fourteen Falls]] * {{see | name=14 Falls at Thika | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-1.0799 | long=37.2465 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Entrance fees for 14 Falls are: US$15 per person, US$5 parking, US$5 per camera | lastedit=2017-06-11 | content=14 Falls are 55 km from Nairobi, close to the Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park, near the town of Thika, one of the biggest suppliers of pineapples in Kenya. You will see the expansive plantations on your way to the falls. 14 small streams merge to form the big waterfall at the foot of the Kilima Mbogo Hills. These streams are part of the Athi River. At first glance the falls are magnificent; however, the river is strongly polluted by industrial waste and a foul chemical smell and reams of rubbish strewn across all the rocks really ruin the experience. At Thika are the Thika and '''Chania Falls''' close to the [http://www.blueposthotel.co.ke/ Blue Post Hotel]. That's interesting too for a stop to or from the 14 falls. Also worth a visit are the '''Mau-Mau caves''' in which allegedly Maumau fighters hid during the independence battles between Thika and Mangu, about 6 km from Thika }} * {{see | name=Kitangela Glass | alt= | url=https://www.kitengela.com/en-us | email= | address= | lat=-1.3930 | long=36.8177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-06-11 | content=In this imaginative place, beautiful art objects are made of recycled glass and exhibited in a lovely garden, In a shop different types of glassware are on sale. Guided presentations take place every 30 min. }} * {{see | name=Kereita Forest zip line | alt= | url=http://theforest.co.ke | email= | address= | lat=-0.9804 | long=36.6575 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2017-10-03 | content=At the Kereita Forest near Kiambu along the Nairobi-Nakuru highway is East-Africa’s longest zip line tour, offering over 2.4km of flight across the lush. }} * {{see | name=The Anti-Gravity Hill (Kituluni Hill) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-1.4260 | long=37.2403 | directions=After a hairpin turn on the road 12 km outside of Machakos town on the ascent to the Kituluni Hills, about 60 km southeast of Nairobi. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-05 | content=One of the strangest natural phenomena along the Kenyan Rift Valley is the point that the native Kamba mysteriously call "anti-gravity." Young men gesticulate on the street to demonstrate the "miracle" to visitors for a small fee. They put a plastic bottle filled with water on the asphalt, which apparently rolls uphill. If you ask them if they gave the bottle a nudge, they empty the contents onto the street. The water flows slowly uphill – apparently. Those blindly taking a few steps would swear they are going downhill. But the way undoubtedly goes up. }} * {{see | name=Swara Plains Conservancy | alt= | url=http://www.swaraplains.com/ | email= | address= | lat=-1.478 | long=37.083 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-12-07 | content=Swara Plains is a fenced sanctuary where Zebras, Giraffes, Ostriches, Monkeys and many other "non raptor" animals can be observed. Here you can go for a walk or ride a bike something that is almost everywhere prohibited in the national parks but is fun for children. }} * {{see | name=Olorgesailie pre-historic site | alt= | url=https://museums.or.ke/olorgesailie/ | email= | address= | lat=-1.8926 | long=36.2895 | directions= along Magadi road, 70 km away from Nairobi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-04-09 | content=World renown as "world's largest stone-tool factory". Part of the Smithsonian Human Origins global locations. The site has camping spots and nice bandas-huts for rent, as well shower and WC facilities. If you're up for it, you can hike Mt Olorgesailie, but it's an all day event. }} * {{see | name=Lake Magadi | alt= | url=https://pages.mtu.edu/~alguth/Magadi_Project/The_Magadi_Project.html | email= | address= | lat=-1.897 | long=36.297 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-09-17 | content=Salt lake with hot springs for SPA, soda ash and salt production and many flamingos }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Hells Gate National Park | alt= | url=https://www.kws.go.ke/content/hells-gate-national-park | email= | address= | lat=-0.915833 | long=36.313333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1603133 | lastedit=2018-09-17 | content=A nice alternative to the more traditional Safari. Given the absence of dangerous animals, it is possible to visit this park on foot or by bike. The landscapes are very impressive, especially the descent into the canyon. All with the presence of different animals, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, warthogs, and several endemic species of birds and insects. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Go-Down Arts Centre | url=http://www.mappedtravel.com/nairobi/1395/go-down+arts+centre/detail.php | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=South of Centre | phone=+254 20 555770 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A former warehouse turned arts centre - this has also happened in Nairobi and this spot allows you to get a glimpse of what contemporary Kenyan artists are up to, including exhibitions, performances and discussions. }} *{{do | name=Kazuri Beads shop | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-1.338916 | long=36.735973 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Started in 1977 the workshop of beads is adjacent to Karen Blixen's Museum. It was started by an English woman to provide sustainable income to poor Kenyan women. Has beautiful jewellery created of clay brought from the areas surrounding Mt. Kenya. }} *{{do | name=Oloo’s Children Center (OCC) | url= | email= | address=Kibera | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 616 987-1106 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Lend a hand at the volunteer-operated school, take a tour of Kibera, and have a cup of tea with the OCC Founder. The founder of the school lives in Kibera and works to provide children in need with education and meals.}} * {{do | name=Try excellent food | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nairobi has a great variety of international food. For more information see the [[#Eat|Eat]] section. }} * {{do | name=Nightlife | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Go dancing and be a part of Nairobi's excellent nightlife. For more information see the Drinking-section. }} * {{do | name=Ice-skating | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Go ice-skating at Panari. }} * {{do | name=Village Market | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Visit Village Market and Sherlocks. }} * {{do | name=Visit the slum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Do something different visit Kibera, the slums of Nairobi. Guided walks are arranged by Kiberatours. }} *'''The Ngong Racecourse''' (Horse Flat-Racing takes place 3 Sundays a month, and is a great way to spend an afternoon). * '''Hiking''': there are several good hiking places near Nairobi, e.g. in the '''Chyulu Hills''' or '''Ngong Hills'''. ** The Ngong Forest Reserve is 25 km south west of Nairobi. It is a popular walking and picnicking venue. In Ngong is a station where you have to pay the park entry fee, and those who want to also for a guide. There is only one route, the walk from Ngong to Corner Baridi (Kiserian), which takes about 4–5 hr; you hardly can get lost. Also organized hiking tours are offered. ** Other nice places for hiking are the [[Mount Longonot National Park]] and the '''Menengai''' Crater, a massive shield volcano with one of the biggest calderas in the world, in the Great Rift Valley, Kenya. It is the largest volcano caldera in Kenya and the second largest volcano caldera in Africa * '''Safari''': Nairobi is the capital of safaris in Kenya. There are tour operators from budget to world class all over the city. Yet it is not easy find the best fitting. For important things to consider when booking see [[Kenya#Safaris]]. ==Buy== [[File:Maasai Market-Nairobi.jpg|thumb|The Maasai Market]] ===Money=== This may also be a good place to repeat the warning about safety. Pickpockets are rampant in Nairobi and have been known to keep an eye on people getting cash from a machine. It is best to carry cash in a hidden pouch rather than a wallet. Men should not carry their wallets in their back pockets, and women should not carry their purses to the side or behind them, particularly in busy locations. * '''Credit cards''': Many stores will accept international credit cards. all big supermarket chains accept credit cards without a surcharge. * '''ATM''': There are networked banking machines in major shopping areas of Nairobi and in the Nairobi airport. Ecobank. Cooperative Bank, Gt Bank, NCBA, Sidian bank, DTB, I&M charges no fees for withdrawals (e.g. by Visa or Mastercard) through their ATMs. Absa and Standard Chartered Bank, Stanbic, Equity, BOA, KCB have a minimum Ksh 400-700 ATM fee for overseas cards at all their ATMs. [http://www.ecobank.com ''Eco Bank''] has atms in 36 African countires. * '''Cash''': Most transactions are cash only, so it is best to have enough cash on hand to pay for purchases and transport. Cash is dispensed in units of Ksh 1,000. Many smaller businesses will not have much change, so before going shopping for curios be sure to have a good selection of smaller notes. * '''Forex bureaus''' are found in many parts of the city where tourists are common. They will exchange cash of different currencies, and may also accept a personal cheque for Kenyan cash. They will want a photocopy of your passport before they exchange money. Rates are not bad, but will be worse than a banking machine will offer. Many exchange bureaus and hotels will ''not'' accept or exchange American currency printed before 2000. When the exchange bureaus do accept pre-2000 notes, they typically offer substantially lower exchange rates than for currency printed after 2000. Exchange rates are also typically lower for small denomination currency than for US$100 and $50 bills. * '''Cashless payment''': Another essential phone tool is [https://www.safaricom.co.ke/personal/m-pesa '''M-Pesa''']. It is a mobile phone-based platform used for most money transactions in Kenya. M-Pesa agents are available all over Kenya. You can use the platform instead of carrying cash around for safety purposes. ===Shopping=== For local curios and souvenirs, the most easily accessible and tourist-friendly is the '''Maasai Market''', held on Fridays at the Village Market, an upmarket, open concept shopping centre near the United Nations and American Embassy complexes. [[Haggle|Bargaining]] is necessary, and one should probably not spend more than Ksh 1,000 on one item, except in extraordinary circumstances. * {{buy | name=Maasai market | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/MaasaiMarketNairobi/ | email= | address=Slip Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Go to the Maasai market and buy keepsakes. On Saturday the market is at Nairobi High Court parking lot, village market on Friday, The Junction on Thursday, Capital Centre on Wednesday. Prepare to haggle and as a guide, pay about half to two-thirds of the asking price. }} For slightly better prices, visit the Tuesday market in town, just down from the Norfolk hotel. This market is less secure, but is larger and offers more variety and opportunity for bargaining. Biashara Street, downtown, is the spot for textiles. Make sure you pick up at least one ''kikoi or kikoy'' (a traditional wrap for Swahili men, predominantly at the coast). * {{buy | name=Haria's Stamp Shop | alt= | url=http://www.hariastamp.com/ | email=hariastamp@gmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +254 731 868 246 or +254 706 868 246 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 8:30-18:00| price= | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content= One of the best selections of kikoy and other African fabrics and souvenirs. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Two Rivers Mall | alt= | url=https://tworivers.co.ke/ | email= | address=off the northern bypass road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254-722-205339 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 09:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2015-05-26 | content=The largest mall in east and central Africa. Has a Carrefour Hypermaket. }} * {{buy | name=Garden City Mall | alt= | url=http://www.gardencitymall.co.ke | email= | address=Thika Super highway | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:30-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2015-05-26 | content=Many stores including a carrefour Hypermarket. }} * {{buy | name=The Sarit Centre Mall | alt= | url=http://www.saritcentre.com/ | email= | address=Westlands | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=Many stores and a small cinema, and a Carrefour hypermarket. }} * {{eat | name=Westgate Shopping Mall | alt= | url=http://www.westgate.co.ke | email= | address=15 Mwanzi Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 715-557775 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-24:00 | price= | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=The target of a terrorist attack in 2013. Has a Carrefour Hypermarket. }} * {{buy | name=Southfield Mall | alt= | url=http://www.southfieldmall.co.ke | email= | address=Airport North Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 739-774477 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2018-04-26 | content=has a Carrefour Hypermarket. }} * {{buy | name=The Village Market Mall | alt= | url=http://villagemarket-kenya.com | email= | address=Limuru Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20-7122488 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Mall open daily 07:00-23:00, store hours vary | price= | lastedit=2021-04-02 | content=It has a Carrefour Market. }} * {{buy | name=Thika Road Mall | alt= | url=http://www.trm.co.ke | email= | address=T R M Drive | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254-700-876876 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2018-05-03 | content=Many stores and has a Carrefour hypermarket }} * {{buy | name=The Hub Karen Mall | alt= | url=https://www.thehubkaren.com/ | email= | address=Dagoretti Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254-702-120120 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 09:00-21:00| price= | lastedit=2018-05-03 | content=Many stores. The anchor tenant is a Carrefour hypermarket. }} * {{buy | name=The Junction Mall | alt= | url=http://www.facebook.com/thejunctionmallkenya | email= | address=Ngong Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254-20-3872881 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 06:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2018-05-03 | content=Many stores and a Carrefour hypermarket. }} * {{buy | name=Yaya Centre Mall | alt= | url=http://www.yaya-centre.co.ke | email= | address=Argwings Kodhok Road Hurlingham | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254-709-439000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 09:00-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2018-05-03 | content=Many stores and a Chandarana Food Plus supermarket. }} ===Supermarket=== * {{buy | name=Jaza Retail | alt=shop.jaza,ke | url= | email= | address=Oi Donyo Sabuk road Nairobi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-07-27 | content=the first Hard discount supermarket Chain in Kenya with 9 stores in Nairobi }} ==Eat== [[File:Hotel La Mada, Nairobi - panoramio (7).jpg|thumb|Food at a hotel]] {{Eatpricerange | Under Ksh 500 | Ksh 500 - Ksh 1400 | Over Ksh 1400 }} Nairobi has a wide range of Indian restaurants that speaks to the significant South Asian community in Kenya. The city also offers other restaurants specializing in different European and Asian cuisine. Restaurants serving international cuisines can be found in downtown and in the areas of Westlands, Hurlingham, Kilimiani, and Lavington. Among the many cuisines available are Italian, Brazilian, Chinese, Thai, Japanese, German and French restaurants. In addition, there are several local restaurants that cater to local cuisine like sukuma wiki (green spinach-like vegetable, 'Kale' in English), ugali (corn bread, ground maize flour and made to a tasty white bread/porridge form), nyama choma (literally: meat roast), chapati and other specialities. There are also many of the internationally well-known fast-food chains in the city and they are also very popular with the Kenyan youth. ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Hot dishes | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-1.282909 | long=36.827258 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Mains Ksh 180-450 ksh | lastedit=2021-09-27 | content=A chain restaurant serving local food. Several venues in Nairobi CBD. Spacious with ample seating, reasonably clean. }} * {{eat | name=KK Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koinange Street and Standard Street | lat=-1.28603 | long=36.81992 | directions=in CBD of Nairobi | phone=+254 718210110 | tollfree= | hours=06:00-19:00 | price= | lastedit=2015-11-24 | content=A downtown eatery well-known for featuring economical African fare such as beef stew with managu, goat meat, grilled tilapia, porridge, maize, njahi, minji, kienyeji, etc, plus breakfasts. Sometimes service can be a bit slow, but it is a well-liked place. }} * {{eat | name=Roast House | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=In the city centre facing the matatu station on Tom Mboya Rd. Regular local prices with more selection, excellent food, friendly service. Very busy at lunchtime. }} * {{eat | name=Habesha | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Near Yaya centre- great Ethiopian food for around USD5-6, although they serve Nescafé coffee rather than the traditional Ethiopian freshly-roasted beans.}} * {{eat | name=Smart Village | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Southwest of Habesha on Elgeyo Marakwet gives an authentic Ethiopian eating experience, with fewer expats than the more-popular Habesha. }} * {{eat | name=Red Sea | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An authentic Eritrean restaurant located on the top floor of '''China Centre''' on Ngong Road near the Chinese embassy. Meals cost around Ksh 500 and the food is excellent, with nice traditional coffee ceremony. }} ===Mid-range=== Nairobi has a fantastic array of mid-range eateries. * {{eat | name=Abyssinia Exotic Ethiopian Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.abyssiniarestaurantnairobi.com | email= | address=Muguga Green, Off Brookside Grove, Off Waiyaki Way | lat=-1.25818 | long=36.78705 | directions= | phone=+254 725 3515 1515 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Mains from Ksh 500-800 | content=A delicious Ethiopian restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Java House | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Ksh 500-750 for a complete meal. | content=With quite a few locations, including The Junction, ABC Place, and close to the United Nations, features a western coffee house menu, from bagels to burritos, with excellent coffees and milkshakes, and a full breakfast menu. Another popular coffee house is Dormans. }} * {{eat | name=Trattoria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An Italian restaurant. Do not expect anything decent when it comes to the mains (all around Ksh 700). However, there is a fabulous and extensive dessert menu, including crepes, tiramisu, souffle, and a coffee granita with fresh cream (Ksh 250-500). }} * {{eat | name=Motherland | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An authentic Ethiopian restaurant with great and affordable food (typical of Ethiopian restaurants in Nairobi!) }} * {{eat | name=Havana Bar | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/HavanaBarNairobi/ | email= | address=Woodvale Grove, Westlands | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 445-0653 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular bar and restaurant with a laid-back Latin theme. Renowned for their sizzling fajitas, steaks and seafood dishes. Reasonably priced. The kitchen is open daily from noon until late. }} * {{eat | name=Village Market Food Court | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has an array of different ethnic cuisines, including Thai, Italian, Chinese and German, as well as a Mongolian Barbecue. Good prices as well. Venture further into Village Market to find a good Japanese restaurant as well, though with slightly steeper prices. There are also food courts at other malls in the city. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=The Carnivore | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= -1.3289 | long=36.8008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2019-08-06| content=Just outside the city, close to the Uhuru Gardens along Lang'Ata road, it is a luxury restaurant famous for its meats. In 2006, the restaurant was listed as one of the top 50 restaurants in the world. Once seated, different masaai grilled meats will be carried around on sticks and carved to your plate at request. Very expensive by Kenyan standards, beware of additional taxes and catering levies. Reservations might be a good idea, ask at your hotel. }} * {{eat | name=Furusato | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Located in Westlands, has fantastic Japanese food. For a price. }} * {{eat | name=The Lord Errol | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Past Village Market and into Runda, is said to have very good food, and is popular with the expat crowd. }} * {{eat | name=Palacina Bistro | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=On State House Hill at the Palacina Hotel, a very upmarket bistro fusion grill restaurant in a lovely outdoor setting. Fantastic food. }} * {{eat | name=Pango Brasserie | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=At the Fairview Hotel it features upmarket French and continental dishes. Dinner begins in an underground stone wine cellar where the chef will send out complimentary tasters while you sip a bottle of wine of your choice. }} * {{eat | name=Alan Bobbe's Bistro | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=at Andrew's apartments, at the end of Rhapta road near St. Mary's School | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-03-26 | content=A venerable, legendary restaurant now located on Rhapta Road (near St. Marys School). Founded in 1962, the restaurant features French haute-cuisine at about a third of what you would pay in Paris! }} * {{eat | name=Le Palanka Pan | alt= | url=https://le-palanka-restaurant.business.site/ | email= | address=909,James Gichuru Road | lat=-1.2861 | long=36.7626 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-09-10 | content=Many Kenyan dishes, but also many dishes from other African countries }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=New Florida Clubs (F1) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The New Florida, locally known as Madhouse or Madi, is in the heart of Nairobi on Koinange Street. }} * {{drink | name=Pango (F3): | alt= | url= | email=info@floridaclubskenya.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 229-036 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Commerce House, 1st Floor. The latest addition to the Florida Group. }} *'''Double Inn:''' Also out in Karen, they show rugby/cricket games and it's always full of expats and white Kenyans. The place to get hammered. *{{drink | name=Seven Seafood & Grill | url=http://www.abc-place.com | email= | address=ABC Place | lat= | long= | directions=ABC Place Waiyaki Way | phone=+254 737 776677 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24 | price=Ksh 2000 | content=Amazing seafood and spectacular decor a must visit. }} *{{drink | name=Shooters & Dips Cocktail Lounge | url=http://www.panarihotels.com | email= | address=4372-00506 | lat= | long= | directions=Panari Sky Centre,Mombasa Road opp Simba Colt Offices,5km from JKIA | phone=+254 787 637948 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily from 17:00 | price=Ksh 250 | content=Handpicked music by the DJ. The bar offers a varied food menu along with a long list of signature cocktails, fine wines and liquors.}} *{{drink | name=Mercury Lounge ABC | url=http://www.mercurylounge.co.ke | email= | address=ABC Place | lat= | long= | directions=Off Waiyaki Way | phone=+254 722 309947 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 16:00-late | price=Shooters and cocktails range US$3-6 with shooters and high end, globally popular wines and spirits USD6-15. All major credit cards accepted. | content=An upmarket modern cocktail and tapas bar. A delicious tapas and bitings menu, and the best cocktails and high end spirits array in Nairobi. All major imported and local wine and beers are available chilled to perfection. A popular hangout for expats, well to do locals and local business leaders. Ample parking and good security make this one of Nairobi's more popular spots. }} *{{drink | name=Mercury Irish Pub | alt=The Last Drop | url=http://www.mercurylounge.co.ke | email= | address=Junction Mall | lat= | long= | directions=Corner of Ngong and Kingara Rd | phone=+254 722 309947 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily from 11:00 | price= | content=The pub specializes in steaks, a wide range of cocktails, local and imported beers, high end spirits and shooters and a superb wine list. Furnished in beautiful woodwork, leather seating, and with images of colonial Nairobi, it is located in the secure Junction Mall which has ample parking, good security and central location. Doubles up as a popular sports bar on the weekends with multiple screens. A popular expat hangout. A great balcony from which one can sip a cocktail while watching life pass by. Food prices from US$10-15, and all major credit cards are accepted. }} * {{drink | name=Club Soundd | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=junction of Kaunda and Wabera St | phone=+254 722 571382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Gipsy | alt= | url= | email=gipsy@nbi.ispkenya.com | address=opposite ABSA, Bank Westland | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 4440964 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Klub House 1 (K1) | alt= | url=http://www.klubhouse.co.ke | email=info@klubhouse.co.ke | address= | lat= | long= | directions=is located along Ojijo Road in Parklands | phone=+254 20 374 9870 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Choices | alt= | url= | email=mmuchami@yahoo.com | address=Majestic House, Moi Avenue | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 550 629 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great place to watch Formula 1. }} * {{drink | name=Black Diamond | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Many expats and travellers and has a cover band that plays very good music. A lot of ladies of the night here, always after the expats. }} * {{drink | name=Havana: | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/HavanaBarNairobi/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 795 984345 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=It's an expats' favourite on Thursdays nights. The live band on Saturdays attracts a good cosmopolitan crowd. Bar snacks available throughout the night. }} * {{drink | name=Apple Bees | alt=Strip club | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Located downtown and a branch in Parklands, next to the local Police Station. }} * {{drink | name=Annie Oakley's | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Next to Milimani Backpackers, has pool tables, a descent menu, and a big screen with cable TV. another expats' favorite hangout. }} * {{drink | name=Cockpit | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Langata Road not just popular with Wilson Airport pilots }} * {{drink | name=Barrels | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Stripclub. Watch out for police raids }} * {{drink | name=Red Tape: | alt= | url= | email=redtapewesty@gmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Westlands, Mpaka Road, Bishan Plaza, }} * {{drink | name=Club LA | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tom Mboya Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=8PM -till late | price=No fee to go in | lastedit=2015-11-26 | content=One of the nice dance club & night clubs in Nairobi. A beer from Ksh 200. Soft drink from Ksh 150. has a Facebook page. best nights are Friday and Saturday. }} * {{Drink|name=Santuri Salon Spotlight Sessions|url=https://santuri.org/Santuri-Salon|directions=The Mall (basement level) in Westlands|lastedit=2024-04-01|content=monthly event for upcoming East African music}} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|less than Ksh 3000|Ksh 3000-6000|more than Ksh 6000}} ===Budget=== *The area around Tom Mboya Street & River Road has a lot of low cost hotels. Budget accommodation in Nairobi is from Ksh 1000 for a single room. *{{sleep | name=Milimani Backpackers & Safari Centre | alt= | url=http://www.milimanibackpackers.com | email= | address=Oldeani Crescent | lat=-1.3034 | long=36.8165 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping/dorm/double | content=It has internet, WiFi, hot showers, and bar. They offer dorms, doubles, singles, twins, camping space, permanent tents, and cabins. Milimani also offers safaris and other trips. }} * {{sleep | name=Manyatta Backpackers | alt= | url= | email= | address=Milimani Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254-721-816603 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-06-20 | content=Six-person dorm. hot water showers. free wifi. This backpackers is near downtown Nairobi. 20 min walk. }} * {{sleep | name=Destiny Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Duruma Road | lat=1.28164 | long=36.82715 | directions=downtown Nairobi | phone=+254 20 22531236 | tollfree= | checkin=10am | checkout=10AM | price=Ksh 1000 | lastedit=2023-06-11 | content=Single room with own hot water bathroom. nice clean good value for money hotel. great place for backpackers and travelers. }} * {{sleep | name=Jungle Junction campground | alt= | url= | email= | address=Karen Kongoni Road. | lat= | long= | directions=near Ngiri road. | phone=+254 722-752865 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2023-02-15 | content=Camping, dorm beds, room with own bathroom. Warm showers, fast internet, good kitchen, laundry service. Also kitchen for cooking own food available as well as common room. Workshop for overland vehicles on site. }} * {{sleep | name=Sal Tree Hotel (old name Arkland Palace Hotel) | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/Arkland-Palace-Hotel-104051271225/ | email= | address=Junction of Tom Mboya and Ronald Ngala streets | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20-2142600 | tollfree= | checkin=from 6:00 | checkout=10:00 | price=double Ksh 1500 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Big single or double rooms with own hot water bathroom. TV. Right in downtown near airport bus 34. very good Location above a small shopping mall. }} * {{sleep | name=Mad Vervet Backpackers Hostel | alt= | url= | email= | address=55 Chalbi Dive House number A3 | lat= | long= | directions=4.2 miles from the centre | phone= | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=dorm/double $10/19 | lastedit=2023-06-14 | content=4/6 bed dorm, double room Shard lounge tv area, Laundry, shared kitchen, garden, safety depost box, bar,. }} * {{sleep | name=Inks hotel | alt= | url=http://www.inkshotel.com | email=info@inshotel.com | address=Latema Junction River Road CBD | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 703 557 160, +254 772 536 365 | tollfree= | checkin=11:00 | checkout=10:00 | price=Ksh 1500 | lastedit=2023-06-10 | content=Single/double room with own hotwater bathroom. 24-hour front desk, bar, free wifi, flat screen TV, safe box. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Africana | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dubois Rd | lat=1.2826 | long=36.8264 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout=10:00 | price=Ksh 1000/1200 | lastedit=2023-03-29 | content=Simple rooms with hot water bathroom. free WiFi. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Nairobi Airport Homestay | alt= | url=http://www.nairobihomestay.co.ke | email=reservations@nairobihomestay.co.ke | address=Muthama Access Rd, Syokimau | lat=-1.374790 | long=36.932112 | directions=off Mombasa Road | phone=+254 799230873 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=11:00 | checkout=10:30 | price=From Ksh 2500 | lastedit=2017-03-13 | content=In a quiet, serene and leafy suburb, 5 minutes from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). }} *{{sleep | name=Olive Gardens Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.theolivegardens.com | email= | address=Argwings Kodhek Rd, Hurlingham (Opposite Nairobi Women's Hospital) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 2737854, +254 20 2727777 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=62 rooms. }} *{{sleep | name=Ole-Sereni Hotel | alt=Sarovar Hotels & Resorts | url=http://www.sarovarhotels.com | email=geetika@sarovarhotels.com | address=Mombasa Rd | lat=-1.326888 | long=36.845956 | directions=5 km from Jomo Kenyatta international airport off Mombasa Rd opposite Zain offices | phone=+254 20 390 1000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=Wildlife resort overlooking the Nairobi National Game Park. }} * {{sleep | name=Savannah Sands Executive Apartments. | alt= | url=http://savannahsands.co.ke | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 2710116 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Off Ngong Road, behind Nairobi Baptist Church. Features furnished and serviced apartments, as well as unfurnished and unserviced apartments. }} * {{sleep | name=DusitD2 | alt= | url=http://d2nairobi.com/ | email= | address=14 Riverside Drive, Riverside Woods | lat=-1.2701 | long=36.8033 | directions=north west of city, near University of Nairobi Chiromo campus | phone=+254 204233000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-11-21 | content=This is a stylish 4-star hotel. Thai restaurant on site, outdoor pool, gated secure compound. }} ===Splurge=== *{{sleep | name=Wildebeest Camp | alt= | url=http://wildebeestecocamp.com/ | email= | address=Mokoyeti West Rd, Langata | lat=-1.32819 | long=36.75564 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm bed US$45 per person. Double $110. Camping $20 | content=Wildebeest Camp has moved from its original location to Mokoyeti West Rd in Langata. It is a beautiful, clean camp with dorms, camp sites, permanent tents, and higher-end rooms. The common area has a comfortable TV room and a restaurant with an outdoor patio. breakfast is included in the price, WiFi is extremely fast. The obvious downside is that it is very far from the city centre -- though that makes it easier to visit other sites like the Giraffe Centre, Elephant Orphanage, and Nairobi National Park. }} * {{sleep | name=Fairview Inn | alt= | url=http://www.fairviewkenya.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= economy double Ksh 16,200 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Also on upper hill, the Fairview is a lovely old historic hotel, with beautiful grounds and several restaurants. It is quiet at night, a real respite from the city. They also rent apartments. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Southern Sun Mayfair Nairobi | alt=former Holiday Inn | url=https://www.tsogosun.com/southern-sun-mayfair-nairobi | email= | address=Parklands Rd | lat=-1.2631467 | long=36.8060157 | directions= | phone=+254 20 3688000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Built in the 1940s as the Mayfair Court Hotel, this historic hotel has retained its charm even as it joined the Holiday Inn family. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=InterContinental Nairobi | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/us/en/nairobi/nboha/hoteldetail | email=sales.icnairobi@ihg.com | address=City Hall Way | lat=-1.2879568 | long=36.8171219 | directions= | phone=+254 020 3200000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=5 minutes from the city centre and 15 min from the airport with views of the city. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hilton Nairobi | alt= | url=https://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/kenya/hilton-nairobi-NBOHITW/index.html | email=nairobi_info@hilton.com | address=Mama Ngina St | lat=-1.2851243 | long=36.8225361 | directions= | phone=+254 20 2288000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Part of the Hilton family of hotels and near the city centre. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Nairobi Serena Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.serenahotels.com/serenanairobi/en/default.html | email=nairobi@serena.co.ke | address=Kenyatta Ave | lat=-1.2870297 | long=36.8123345 | directions= | phone=+254 20 2822000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=In the middle of Nairobi's Central Park, this hotel offers a quiet place to stay. }} * {{sleep | name=Fairmont The Norfolk Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.fairmont.com/norfolk-hotel-nairobi/ | email= | address= | lat=-1.278394 | long=36.816362 | directions= | phone=+ 254 20 2265000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia=Fairmont The Norfolk Hotel | wikidata=Q19873171 | lastedit=2018-09-16 | content= 30 min from the airport, and a short distance from the shopping district. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Safari Park Hotel & Casino | alt= | url=https://www.safaripark-hotel.com/ | email=reservations@safariparkhotel.co.ke | address=Thika Rd | lat=-1.2252675 | long=36.8836019 | directions= | phone=+254 020 3633000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Started as a retreat for British Army officers more than 50 years ago, this hotel is 15 min from downtown. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Sarova Stanley | alt=The Stanley Hotel | url=https://www.sarovahotels.com/stanley-nairobi/ | email= | address= | lat=-1.283889 | long=36.821944 | directions= | phone=+254 719 048000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q19833304 | content=This over 100-year'old hotel has been renovated back to its Victorian style. In the city's shopping and business district. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club | alt= | url=https://www.windsorgolfresort.com/ | email=reservations@windsor.co.ke | address=Kigwa Ln | lat=-1.209996 | long=36.8490203 | directions= | phone=+254 20 864 7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=15 min from the city centre, 45 min from the airport. There is an 18-hole golf course on site. }} * {{sleep | name=The King Post | alt= | url=http://gablesgroup.co.ke/properties/the-king-post-2/ | email= | address=Rhapta Road, Westlands | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2018-03-24| content=The King Post brings about a unique architectural synthesis between the East African coast and the lands across the Indian Ocean. it reflects the social and cultural interaction between the regions over more than 2000 years. Accommodation is in 1-, 2- or 3- bedroom apartments available on daily basis and long-term.The apartments are secluded but not isolated from the hustle and bustle of the city centre and the main roads being surrounded by peace, tranquility and security. }} * {{sleep | name=Giraffe Manor | alt= | url=http://www.giraffemanor.com | email= | address= | lat=-1.3756 | long=36.7447 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | wikipedia=Giraffe Manor | wikidata=Q5564105 | lastedit=2018-09-16 | content=The converted home of the founders of the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife is a few kilometres from the city centre. It sits on 57 ha (140 acres) of land. The giraffes can be fed at the front door or even from the second floor bedroom window! }} * {{sleep | name=Ngong House | alt= | url=http://www.ngonghouse.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=30-min drive from the city centre and airport, the Ngong House is on a land that used to be part of a vast coffee estate. On the grounds are five traditional looking, yet elegantly decorated tree houses. }} * {{sleep | name=Sankara Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.sankara.com/ | email= | address= | lat=-1.2628 | long=36.8023 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-28 | content=Also a nice place for just a sundowner or cocktail at the pool bar on the 7th floor with great views and chic ambience }} *{{sleep|name=Mövenpick Hotel & Residences Nairobi|alt=|url=https://www.movenpick.com/en/africa/kenya/nairobi/hotel-residences-nairobi/overview/|email=hotel.nairobi@movenpick.com|address=Mkungu Close, Westlands|lat=-1.2610742|long=36.8047457|directions=|phone=+254 709 548000|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=14:00|checkout=12:00|price=€148-341 |lastedit=2018-11-07|content=}} * {{sleep | name=Palacina Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.palacina.com/ | email=info@palacina.com | address=State House Area, Kitale Lane, Off Dennis Pritt Road | lat=-1.283 | long=36.79263 | directions= | phone=+254733777173 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-20 | content= }} ==Stay safe== Nairobi has a reputation for thievery. Beware of snatch and grab, con artists, or groups of people following you. Scams are elaborate and can involve up to 10 or more people working together. The best advice for a tourist is to stay in the city centre, know where you are at all times, and pretend you know where you're going (even if you don't). If you find yourself in an unfamiliar area your best bet is to find a taxi (although you will probably pay dearly if the driver suspects a panicked westerner!) Don't carry large quantities of money or passports on the street, and assume that anyone trying to engage you is up to no good or trying to sell you something. If you stay smart and play safe, without going around much after dark, Nairobi can be a safe place to stay. Most locals are honest people who will happily help you if you approach them. The areas where you have to take special care are: Globe Roundabout, Archives, Ambassadeur, Muthurwa Market, around Nation Centre, Landies Road, Nyamakima, Kirinyaga Road, and Uhuru. Kenyans are proud people and there is not a lot of begging like you find in some other countries. Some opportunistic people will hang around shopping centres and beg, but they will generally accept a simple 'sorry' and leave you alone if you do not give. Many of these 'beggars' are middle-class kids or adults who have realised they can profit from exploiting white guilt, and should not be encouraged. If you are ever lucky enough to visit a slum as a local (not on some perverse tourist safari) you will discover the poorest of the poor do not even beg. Outside of tourist and expat communities, young children will become excited at the sight of a white person and may come running towards you to try to shake your hand while yelling out 'mzungu' (white person) or 'how are you?'. Older kids are more reserved, and you should be wary of kids who are older than 9 or 10 who are trying to distract or get close to you. Slums should be avoided by tourists as you will attract a lot of attention which can quickly turn into a dangerous situation. Apart from the inner city centre, Nairobi dies out at night. Streets are mostly empty. Do not walk alone after nightfall. Always use taxis. The areas north and east of River Road should be avoided, especially if you're not a local! Biashara Street is a safe shopping street due to the presence of 10-15 Maasai guards. A place to avoid as a tourist is the City Market; you could end up paying a much higher price than on Biashara Street. If you are in a matatu and moving slowly through traffic, particularly after dark, you should keep your window closed if your valuables are in reach to prevent people snatching them from the outside (there are thieves who walk through traffic looking for such opportunities). Mobile phones and wallets should be securely kept and not displayed prominently during calls or cash transactions in the River Road area, particularly after dark. Eastleigh (known as 'little Mogadishu') is an area near the city centre that is decaying due to years of neglect by the government (including the police). It is predominantly populated by Somalian migrants and refugees, and most Kenyans will not go there for fear of their safety. Tourists would be wise to avoid it day and night. There have been several grenade attacks in the city for which Al-Shabaab have claimed responsibility. These are likely to be ongoing while the Kenyan army has a presence in Somalia. They are random and often fatal, and one should be wary and report any suspicious behaviour. Associated with the terrorist threat, you can expect to pass through security checkpoints with armed guards at most attractions, shopping malls and even on the streets. You can expect (at times) to have to have your bags searched, and car checked. ==Stay healthy== It is recommended that before tourists come to Nairobi, that they should be vaccinated well in advance (6 weeks) of their trip. The most common recommended vaccines for people traveling to Africa are Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Yellow Fever, Rabies and Meningitis. ===Food and beverages=== Be careful with the food that you eat outside the more upscale establishments. Before eating, make sure that the food is freshly and thoroughly cooked and served hot. Also avoid '''seafood''', except at upmarket restaurants and hotels, and make sure that your fruits and vegetables have been properly washed in clean water. The safest fruits to eat are bananas and papayas. Do not drink '''tap water''' ''or brush your teeth'' with it. Only use bottled or canned drinks (especially popular brands). Also, do not use ice as it may also be contaminated water, and remember that alcohol does not sterilize a drink. The general rule of thumb is, the more high end an establishment is, the greater the safety of the food and drink within. ===Insects=== In Africa you are going to be exposed to yellow fever, dengue fever, other viral diseases, sleeping sickness, filariasis and malaria, although none of these diseases is a concern in Nairobi. When insects are biting you should cover up and wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers, socks and pyjamas especially when night falls. It is best to use an insect repellent that contains DEET on your exposed skin and clothing. As for mosquito nets, it is best to use a [[permethrin]]-impregnated net along with an insecticide such a pyrethrum coils or an electric mosquito killer during the night. And remember to spray your hotel room every evening. ===Heat and sun=== Make sure to drink plenty of fluids (not coffee, alcohol or strong tea) to avoid dehydration. If you are well hydrated, your body will produce plenty of clear urine. The average temperature is around 25°C (maximum might reach 30°C) throughout the year. People coming from Asian countries like India will not have much problem with the weather — in fact it will seem pleasant year-round. For people who are from cold countries, it can take three weeks to become accustomed to the heat. Try to avoid plenty of physical exertion and to stay in the shade and keep cool as much as possible. Increase the amount of salt intake in your food and water. Also, apply a lot of high-factor sunscreen, avoid direct sunlight, and try to wear a hat and shady clothing. ==Connect== There are very many internet cafés around Nairobi, but connection speeds and computers are not always super fast, but still you will manage to open your email, probably even use a webcam or watch YouTube. Prices are usually at ranges from Ksh 0.5/minute to Ksh 1/minute, usually with a minimum fee of Ksh 5-20. The more expensive internet cafés are rarely better and the best ones charge Ksh 1/minute with discounts for using the internet for longer. Most of the good cafés are found in Norwich Union which has quite a number just opposite Hilton Hotel next to Nandos while the expensive ones are found in malls in Westlands. Although it may be more appropriate for tourists to use the ones in Westlands since they are usually less crowded and are more exclusive but not necessarily faster or better in terms of equipment. Free wireless internet is available at Java House restaurants and Doorman's coffee shops in the city and malls. Some bars like Havana in Westlands also offer free wifi. The internet cafe in Sarit Centre also has wireless internet available at a good speed and a reasonable price. '''Mobile phones''' are ubiquitous in Kenya with fairly good coverage from all providers '''Safaricom, Airtel and Telkom''' that extends to most populated parts of the country. Safaricom has the best national coverage especially if you are using 4G data. The phone system is GSM 900 and 3G-4G 2100 (Asian and European standard) on Safaricom, Airtel and Telkom Phones and SIM cards are available at many locations throughout Nairobi and the country including at the airport. Phone prices are very competitive and priced for average income Kenyans. A basic phone may be obtained new from an independent dealer for ~Ksh 2000. A vast majority of people use pre-paid phones with scratch-card top-ups available at a huge number of merchants across the country. Phones are sold "unlocked" by outlets for use on any network. Safaricom though does sell a number of phones locked to its network. Much business is conducted via mobile phone, so possession of one for even a relatively short stay in the country can be beneficial. Rates are extremely affordable with in-country calls at around Ksh 3 per minute. Overseas calls cost around Ksh 5 per minute to the United States (~USD$0.06/minute) and Ksh 3 per minute to India on the Airtel network. 3G data service is available in most coverage areas on Safaricom and is of a fairly high standard. The other networks have 3G in major population areas and EDGE/GPRS everywhere else. If you have a smart phone you should buy a data pack (200mb, 500mb or 1.5gb) or your credit will go down very fast. Airtel and Telekom have lower prices for calls and data. ==Cope== Smoking is against the law out on the streets in the city centre (the downtown grid area with numerous skyscrapers). There are certain smoking zones, and outside of the city centre it becomes much easier to find locations where it is acceptable. However, a general rule would be to not smoke along the side of any roads or streets with pedestrians and/or vehicles. Be observant and take your cues from other smokers - if there are no smokers or cigarette butts on the ground, it is likely a non-smoking location. ===Embassies, Consulates and High Commissions=== * {{flag|Australia}} {{listing | name=Australia | url=http://www.kenya.highcommission.gov.au/nair/home.html | email= | address=Riverside Dr | lat= | long= | directions=400 m off Chiromo Rd | phone=+254 20 4277100 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 4277139 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|China}} {{listing | name=China | url=http://ke.china-embassy.org/eng/ | email=chinaemb_ken@mfa.gov.cn | address=Woodlands Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 2726851 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 2726402 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Cyprus}} {{listing | name=Cyprus | url= | email=cyprusnairobi@gmail.com | address=International House 6th Floor, Mama Ngina St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 2220881 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 312202 | hours=M-F 9:00-16:30 | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Djibouti}} {{listing | name=Djibouti | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Consulate---Embassy/Djibouti-Embassy-Nairobi-1903302856420224/ | email= | address=Mama Ngina St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 2122859 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 313120 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Egypt}} {{listing | name=Egypt | url=http://www.mfa.gov.eg/english/embassies/Egyptian_Embassy_kenya/Pages/default.aspx | email=eg.emb_nairobi@mfa.gov.eg | address=24 Othaya Rd off Gitanga Rd, Kileleshwa | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 4441248 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 3870383 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Eritrea}} {{listing | name=Eritrea | url= | email= | address=2F New Rehema House, Rhapta Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 4441248 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Ethiopia}} {{listing | name=Ethiopia | url= | email=executive@ethiopianembassy.or.ke | address=State House Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 2732054 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 2216044 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Finland}} {{listing | name=Finland | url=http://www.finland.or.ke| email=sanomat.nai@formin.fi | address=Eden Square, Block 3, 6th floor, Greenway Rd off Westlands Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20-3750721-4 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20-3750714 | hours=M-F 9AM-noon | price= | content= }} *{{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany| url=http://www.nairobi.diplo.de | email=info@nairobi.diplo.de | address=113 Riverside Drive, Ludwig Krapf House | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 4262000 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 4262129 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Greece}} {{listing | name=Greece | url=http://www.mfa.gr/nairobi | email=gremb.nai@mfa.gr | address=13F Nation Tower, Kimathi St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 340722 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 2216044 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Indonesia}} {{listing | name=Indonesia | alt= | url=http://www.kemlu.go.id/nairobi/Pages/default.aspx | email=indonbi@arcc.or.ke | address=Menengai Road, Upper Hill P.O.Box 48868 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 714-196, +254 733 133 000 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 713-475 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | url=http://www.ke.emb-japan.go.jp/ | email= | address=Mara Rd, Upper Hill | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 2898000 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 2898220 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Nigeria}} {{listing | name=Nigeria | url=http://www.nigeriankenya.or.ke/ | email=ng@nigeriahighcom.org | address=Lenana Rd, Kilimani | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 3864116 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 3875871 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Romania}} {{listing | name=Romania | url= | email=nairobi@mae.ro | address=Eliud Mathu Street 1119, Runda, P.O. Box 63240-00619 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 721 214073, +254 708 368303 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Embassy }} * {{flag|South Korea}} {{listing | name=South Korea | url= | email= | address=15F Anniversary Towers, University Way | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 2220000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Spain}} {{listing | name=Spain | url= | email=emb.nairobi@maec.es | address=CBA Building, 3rd floor, Mara & Ragati Road, Upper Hill | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 2720222 | tollfree = | fax=+254 20 2720226 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Rwanda}} {{listing | name=Rwanda | url=http://kenya.embassy.gov.rw/ | email=rwanemba@wananchi.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Limuru Rd, Gigiri | phone=+254 20 7121321 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 7121324 | hours=M-Th 09:00-17:00, F 09:00-14:00 | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Serbia}} {{listing | name=Serbia | url=http://www.embassyofserbia.or.ke/index.html | email=nairobi@embassyofserbia.or.ke⁷ | address=State House Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 2710076 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 2714126 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|United Kingdom}} {{listing | name=United Kingdom | url=http://ukinkenya.fco.gov.uk/en/ | email=DLNairobi-CommerialSectionprotect@fco.gov.uk | address=Upper Hill Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 2844000 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 2844-088 | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | alt= | url=https://ke.usembassy.gov/ | email= | address=UN Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+254 20 363-6000 | tollfree= | fax=+254 20 363-3410 | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Go next== * [[Kisumu]] * [[Kakamega Rainforest]]: the last primeval rainforest in the country, and home to various monkeys and hundreds of bird species * [[Lake Naivasha]] is worth at least a day's visit and has enough to keep you occupied for two or three days. Lakeshore country clubs are a good place for lunch. You can take a boat ride on the lake to see hippos, go for a walk among zebra and giraffes on Crescent Island, ride thoroughbred horses among zebra, giraffes and wildebeest at the Sanctuary Farm, and ride bicycles among wildlife and dramatic scenery at Hell's Gate National Park. * [[Nakuru National Park]], although further afield, deservedly warrants a 1-night stay for a late-afternoon and early-morning game drive. * [[Maasai Mara National Reserve]]: Kenya's most important National Park * [[Mount Longonot National Park]]: Daytrip to hike on a 2700m volcano * [[Aberdare National Park]]: known for high population of rhinos * [https://www.olpejetaconservancy.org/ '''Ol Pejeta Conservatory'''] provides a sanctuary for great apes and rhinos {{guidecity}} {{geo|-1.2833|36.8167}} {{IsPartOf|Southern Rift Valley}} nrzfppyscvtm0m0tn97j8hiea7se08w 0 23900 5090759 5020424 2025-07-10T12:40:50Z 203.208.106.227 /* See */ Updated listing for Abbaye de Fontfroide 5090759 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Narbonne''' is a city in [[Aude]], [[Languedoc-Roussillon]], [[France]]. ==Understand== [[File:Narbonne Cathedrale Saint Just et Saint Pasteur.jpg|thumb|The Cathedrale Saint Just et Saint Pasteur]] Narbonne was an important place in [[Roman Empire|Roman]] times, being at the junction between the Via Domitia and the Via Aquitania. Trade was prominent here and there was a Forum and warehouses for grain and products. The underground storage sites are worth visiting. ==Get in== Narbonne has an SNCF rail station with direct connections to [[Paris]], [[Barcelona]], [[Toulouse]], [[Marseille]] and many regional destinations. * {{go | name=Narbonne railway station | alt=Gare de Narbonne | url=https://www.sncf.com/fr/gares/narbonne/OCE87781104 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2591311 | lastedit=2021-03-16 | content= }} The A9 (Route Aquitaine) and A61 motorways pass through/near Narbonne. The nearest airport is in [[Béziers]], and other (relatively) close airports are in [[Carcassonne]], [[Montpellier]] and [[Perpignan]]. ==Get around== {{mapframe}} Much of the city centre can be covered on foot. There is also a free (tiny!) shuttle bus that cuts a route from the Mediatheque along the canal and around other parts of town. ==See== [[File:Palais des Archevêques de Narbonne.jpg|thumbnail|right|The Archbishop's Palace on the main square in town]] * {{see | name=Archbishops' Palace | alt=Palais du Pape | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.183917 | long=3.004012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€4 to climb the tower | content=Good views from the top of the tower (donjon) over towards the nearby cathedral and the surrounding areas. }} * {{see | name=Via Domitia | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.183731 | long=3.00419 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | content=An excavated section of the Via Domitia, the Roman road that ran from Italy to Spain. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Narbonne Cathedral | alt=Cathédrale Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur de Narbonne | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.184722 | long=3.003611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q473121 | content=Begun in 1272, but unfinished, this cathedral is the fourth tallest in France. }} * {{see | name=Abbaye de Fontfroide | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.127372 | long=2.898336 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q334263 | lastedit=2018-02-09 | content= }} * {{see | name=Roman Horreum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.185572 | long=3.004682 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A former grain warehouse, built underground as a cryptoporticus. }} === Museums === * {{see | name=Museum of Archaeology in Narbonne | alt=Musée archéologique de Narbonne | url= | email= | address=Place de l'Hôtel de Ville | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q11694502 | lastedit=2021-03-16 | content= }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art and History of Narbonne | alt=Musée d'Art et d'Histoire de Narbonne | url= | email= | address=Place de l'Hôtel de Ville | lat= | long= | directions=Palais des Archevêques | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3329619 | lastedit=2021-03-16 | content= }} * {{see | name=NarboVia | alt= | url=https://www.narbovia.fr | email= | address=Avenue de Gruissan, 50 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30738411 | lastedit=2021-03-16 | content= }} ==Do== Take a trip to the '''beach''' at nearby Narbonne Plage (15km away.) ==Buy== [[File:Narbonne market hall.jpg|thumb|Market Hall]] * {{buy | name=Market Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q116759146 | lastedit=2025-02-12 | content= }} ==Eat== ==Drink== There are various cafes and bars around the main square. ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== Visit nearby wall city [[Carcassonne]], soak up some rays on the beach [[Narbonne Plage]], or head down to Catalonian city [[Perpignan]]. {{geo|43.1833|3.0167}} {{IsPartOf|Aude}} {{outlinecity}} gpvy65u4vielcj15ymot98nolo0d57r 5090761 5090759 2025-07-10T12:42:49Z Ground Zero 1423298 add text from French Wikivoyage https://fr.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Narbonne&oldid=562047 5090761 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Narbonne''' is a city in [[Aude]], [[Languedoc-Roussillon]], [[France]]. Located in the heart of the Narbonnaise en Méditerranée Regional Natural Park, Narbonne also has other listed natural sites, such as the Clape massif and the Sainte-Marie de Fontfroide abbey, as well as the Bages-Sigean pond. ==Understand== [[File:Narbonne Cathedrale Saint Just et Saint Pasteur.jpg|thumb|The Cathedrale Saint Just et Saint Pasteur]] Narbonne was an important place in [[Roman Empire|Roman]] times, being at the junction between the Via Domitia and the Via Aquitania. Trade was prominent here and there was a Forum and warehouses for grain and products. The underground storage sites are worth visiting. ==Get in== Narbonne has an SNCF rail station with direct connections to [[Paris]], [[Barcelona]], [[Toulouse]], [[Marseille]] and many regional destinations. * {{go | name=Narbonne railway station | alt=Gare de Narbonne | url=https://www.sncf.com/fr/gares/narbonne/OCE87781104 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2591311 | lastedit=2021-03-16 | content= }} The A9 (Route Aquitaine) and A61 motorways pass through/near Narbonne. The nearest airport is in [[Béziers]], and other (relatively) close airports are in [[Carcassonne]], [[Montpellier]] and [[Perpignan]]. ==Get around== {{mapframe}} Much of the city centre can be covered on foot. There is also a free (tiny!) shuttle bus that cuts a route from the Mediatheque along the canal and around other parts of town. ==See== [[File:Palais des Archevêques de Narbonne.jpg|thumbnail|right|The Archbishop's Palace on the main square in town]] * {{see | name=Archbishops' Palace | alt=Palais du Pape | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.183917 | long=3.004012 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€4 to climb the tower | content=Good views from the top of the tower (donjon) over towards the nearby cathedral and the surrounding areas. }} * {{see | name=Via Domitia | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.183731 | long=3.00419 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | content=An excavated section of the Via Domitia, the Roman road that ran from Italy to Spain. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Narbonne Cathedral | alt=Cathédrale Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur de Narbonne | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.184722 | long=3.003611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q473121 | content=Begun in 1272, but unfinished, this cathedral is the fourth tallest in France. }} * {{see | name=Abbaye de Fontfroide | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.127372 | long=2.898336 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q334263 | lastedit=2018-02-09 | content= }} * {{see | name=Roman Horreum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.185572 | long=3.004682 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A former grain warehouse, built underground as a cryptoporticus. }} === Museums === * {{see | name=Museum of Archaeology in Narbonne | alt=Musée archéologique de Narbonne | url= | email= | address=Place de l'Hôtel de Ville | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q11694502 | lastedit=2021-03-16 | content= }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art and History of Narbonne | alt=Musée d'Art et d'Histoire de Narbonne | url= | email= | address=Place de l'Hôtel de Ville | lat= | long= | directions=Palais des Archevêques | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3329619 | lastedit=2021-03-16 | content= }} * {{see | name=NarboVia | alt= | url=https://www.narbovia.fr | email= | address=Avenue de Gruissan, 50 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30738411 | lastedit=2021-03-16 | content= }} ==Do== Take a trip to the '''beach''' at nearby Narbonne Plage (15km away.) ==Buy== [[File:Narbonne market hall.jpg|thumb|Market Hall]] * {{buy | name=Market Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q116759146 | lastedit=2025-02-12 | content= }} ==Eat== ==Drink== There are various cafes and bars around the main square. ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== Visit nearby wall city [[Carcassonne]], soak up some rays on the beach [[Narbonne Plage]], or head down to Catalonian city [[Perpignan]]. {{geo|43.1833|3.0167}} {{IsPartOf|Aude}} {{outlinecity}} 0b0prdr8b9rr5s9be7n5yx7lufmzeid 0 25239 5091078 5077640 2025-07-10T22:24:47Z Anyone150 1516949 /* By public transit */ 5091078 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner North Sound Monte Cristo townsite.jpg}} The '''North Sound''' refers to the region along the northern approaches of the [[Puget Sound]] in [[Washington State|Washington State]]. It includes the suburban communities north of [[Seattle]], logging towns along the Stillaguamish River, and the two largest islands of Puget Sound. ==Cities== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape|wikidata=Q110403, Q493243}} This region consists of '''Snohomish County''' and '''Island County'''. Broader definitions of "North Sound" sometimes extend north to include Skagit and Whatcom Counties, which Wikivoyage separates into [[Northwest Washington]]. ===Snohomish County=== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Everett (Washington)|Everett]]|wikidata=Q392599}} — home to Boeing's largest assembly factory, where many of its wide-bodied aircraft are assembled in the world's largest building. The county seat and the largest city in the region. '''South Snohomish County''' consists of small suburbs between [[Seattle]] (in neighboring [[King County]]) and Everett, as well as smaller towns along the Snohomish and Skykomish Rivers flowing into Everett: * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Edmonds]]|wikidata=Q1055845}} — with a charming main street and seaside parks that frame the busy ferry terminal * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lynnwood]]|wikidata=Q852607}} — the largest retail center north of Seattle * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Monroe (Washington)|Monroe]]|wikidata=Q1055861}} — home of the Evergreen State Fair * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mountlake Terrace]]|wikidata=Q1507087}} — a small northern suburb along Interstate 5 * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mukilteo]]|wikidata=Q1507307}} — the ferry terminal to [[Whidbey Island]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Snohomish]]|wikidata=Q1505974}} — the Antique Capital of the Northwest * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Skykomish Valley]]|wikidata=Q7537547}} ('''Sultan''', '''Startup''', '''Gold Bar''', '''Baring''', '''Index''' and '''Skykomish''') — a series of small towns in the steep mountains on the way to [[Stevens Pass]]. '''North Snohomish County''' is where Seattle's urban sprawl finally fades into rural agricultural and logging communities: * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Arlington (Washington)|Arlington]]|wikidata=Q1055866}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Darrington]]|wikidata=Q1507497}} — a logging town at the east entrance to the Mountain Loop Highway * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Granite Falls]]|wikidata=Q1506731}} — a logging town at the west entrance to the Mountain Loop Highway * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lake Stevens]]|wikidata=Q1507935}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Marysville (Washington)|Marysville]]|wikidata=Q970001}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Stanwood]]|wikidata=Q2601028}} ===Island County=== [[File:Cultus Bay 357.jpg|300px|thumb|Cultus Bay, near Clinton]] Island County consists of [[Whidbey Island]] and [[Camano Island]]: * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Camano Island]]|wikidata=Q918673}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Clinton (Washington)|Clinton]]|wikidata=Q1515068}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Coupeville]]|wikidata=Q1513976}} - county seat of Island County * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Freeland (Washington)|Freeland]]|wikidata=Q1508227}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Greenbank]]|wikidata=Q3473655}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Langley (Washington)|Langley]]|wikidata=Q1011590}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Oak Harbor]]|wikidata=Q990977}} - largest city in Island County ==Other destinations== [[File:Deception Pass Bridge Closeup.JPG|thumb|Deception Pass Bridge]] *{{marker|name=[[Deception Pass State Park]]|url=|lat=|long=|wikidata=Q1181773}} – the fast-flowing waterway between Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands, with over {{acre|4,100}} of forest, beaches, campsites, trails, and scenic vistas. During low tides, the swift current can lead to standing waves, large whirlpools, and roiling eddies underneath the historic Deception Pass Bridge. * {{marker|name=[[Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve]]|wikidata=Q5331845}} — historical features of the reserve appear to today's visitors much as they did a century ago, when New England sea captains were drawn to Penn Cove *[[File:Forest_Route_20.svg|25px]] '''[[Mountain Loop Highway]]''' — a 52-mile scenic drive through some of the best camping and outdoors recreation in the region. This road runs between Granite Falls and Darrington on Forest Road 20. ==Understand== ==Get in== ===By car=== [[File:I-5.svg|25px]] '''[[Interstate 5#Lynnwood|Interstate 5 (I-5)]]''' runs north-south through [[Everett_(Washington)|Everett]] to [[Mount Vernon_(Washington)|Mount Vernon]] in [[Skagit County]] and to [[Seattle]] in [[King County]]. [[File:I-405.svg|25px]] '''Interstate 405 (I-405)''' splits off east from I-5 in [[Lynnwood]] and heads through the Eastside (of Lake Washington), serving [[Kirkland]] and [[Bellevue]] until rejoining I-5 at [[Tukwila]] in the south. [[File:US 2.svg|25px]] '''US Highway 2 (US-2)''' begins from [[Everett_(Washington)|Everett]] and goes east through Lake Stevens, Monroe, Sultan and Gold Bar as it crosses the Cascades towards [[Leavenworth_(Washington)|Leavenworth]] and [[Wenatchee]]. ===By plane=== * {{marker|type=go|name=[[Everett_(Washington)#By plane|Paine Field]]|url=| lat=47.90867 | long=-122.27847}}, ({{IATA|PAE}}) serves as an airport for Boeing's manufacturing and test flight activities as Boeing Field Everett. It also serves a commercial airport for Alaska Airlines from major west coast cities. * '''[[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]]''', ({{IATA|SEA}}), is still the largest airport in the area with connecting flights to all regions of the U.S. and the world, especially with frequent transpacific routes but, also to Europe, Mexico and the Middle East as well. ===By boat=== [[File:EdmondsFerryDock.jpg|thumb|The Edmonds Ferry Dock at sunset]] * '''[https://wsdot.wa.gov/travel/washington-state-ferries Washington State Ferries (WSF)]''' operates the following between Island and Snohomish Counties in the North Sound and to the [[Kitsap Peninsula]] in the other side of the Sound: :* [[File:WA-20.svg|25px]] [[Coupeville]] (Ft Casey State Park) and [[Port Townsend]] :* [[File:WA-104.svg|25px]] [[Edmonds#Get in|Edmonds]] and [[Kingston_(Washington)#Get in|Kingston]] :* [[File:WA-525.svg|25px]] [[Mukilteo#Get in|Mukilteo]] and [[Clinton_(Washington)#Get in|Clinton]] :All Washington State ferries are for both vehicles and passengers. ==Get around== ===By public transit=== {{go | name=Community Transit | alt= | url=https://www.communitytransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 425-353-7433 | tollfree=+1-800-562-1375 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5154898 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Operates local and regional public transit bus routes in Snohomish County, except only local routes in Everett. Communities within the county served by this operator's routes include [[Arlington (Washington)|Arlington]], Edmonds, [[Everett (Washington)|Everett]], [[Lynnwood]], [[Marysville (Washington)|Marysville]], [[Mill Creek (Washington)|Mill Creek]], [[Monroe (Washington)|Monroe]], [[Mountlake Terrace]], [[Mukilteo]], [[Snohomish]], and Stanwood }} The number of the route also tells you which area of the county it serves: * '''Below 100''' - Everett only. Buses within the City of Everett are operated by '''[https://www.everetttransit.org Everett Transit]''' * '''100s''' - South Snohomish County: Lynnwood, Aurora Village, Bothell, Edmonds, Mukilteo, Mountlake Terrace, Mill Creek/Silver Firs * '''200s''' - North Snohomish County: Arlington, Marysville, Monroe, Stanwood, Tulalip, Lake Stevens, Gold Bar, Snohomish * '''300s''' - Reserved for '''[https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/metro King County Metro]''' routes serving near the King-Snohomish County line in Aurora Village, Bothell, Mountlake Terrace, Shoreline and Woodinville * '''400s & 800s''' - Reserved for Community Transit commuter routes to Downtown Seattle and University District. This category includes Island Transit intercounty service to Snohomish County: Route 424 between Snohomish, Monroe, Woodinville and Seattle and Island Transit #412 from Camano Island to Everett are the only routes in this category * '''500s''' - Sound Transit routes operated by Community Transit are 510, 512, 513, 515, 532, 535. * '''900s''' - Commuter routes from the Link Light Rail 1 Line train in Lynnwood to different places in Snohomish County. They replace the 400s and 800s bus routes to/from Seattle. * '''Swift''' - operates as bus rapid in the area to serve fewer stops (spaced further apart), along the route on frequent schedules. Routes are identified by a color then by numbers. {{listing | name=Sound Transit | alt= | url=https://www.soundtransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-889-6368 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3965367 | lastedit=2023-06-16 | content=Has regional public transit routes including Sounder trains, Link light rail, and express bus in King County (e.g. [[Bellevue]], [[Federal Way]], [[Kent (Washington)|Kent]], [[Renton]], [[Seattle]]), Snohomish County (e.g. [[Everett (Washington)|Everett]], [[Lynnwood]]) and Pierce County (e.g. [[Puyallup]], [[Tacoma]]). }} * ''Link'' light rail operates in Seattle, traveling north to Lynnwood and south to Angle Lake via [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]] on the 1 Line Train. Plans are underway to continue this route from Lynnwood to Everett. * ''Sounder'' commuter rail service, operating weekday rush hours only, connects Seattle to Everett via Edmonds and Mukilteo on the 'N' Line train. * Sound Transit has many convenient express bus routes that travel South (to Tacoma), East (Redmond, Bellevue), and North (Bothell, Lynnwood). Outside of the immediate Seattle-Bellevue area, many routes operate only during weekday rush hours. Check your schedules in advance, and beware of holiday service cutbacks. All Sound Transit routes have route numbers that are in the '''500s'''. {{listing | name=Island Transit | alt= | url=https://www.islandtransit.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 360-678-7771 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q16980701 | lastedit=2023-06-11 | content=Scheduled bus services on [[Whidbey Island]] and [[Camano Island]]. Service on Whidbey Island includes to [[Clinton (Washington)|Clinton]], [[Coupeville]], [[Freeland (Washington)|Freeland]], [[Greenbank]], Langley, [[Oak Harbor]] with off island connections to [[Anacortes]]. There are intercounty connections to [[Everett (Washington)|Everett]] (412) and [[Mount Vernon (Washington)|Mount Vernon]] (411C, 411W) from Island County (Whidbey Island and Camano Island). }} ====ORCA Card==== The '''[https://www.myorca.com/ ORCA card]''' is a contactless fare card that enables you to ride and transfer seamlessly across most Puget Sound public transit agencies, including: King County Metro, Sound Transit, Community Transit, Everett Transit, Pierce Transit, Kitsap Transit, and Washington State Ferries. The card is $3, and you must put in a minimum of $5 in your '''e-purse''' to start using it. '''Day passes''' are available for $8 and can be used for all bus and train services. Monthly passes are also available. [https://support.myorca.com/hc/en-us/articles/10285980987277-How-to-request-a-refund You can request a refund of unused e-purse funds]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. ===By car=== All but essential for reaching the outermost suburbs and mountains. In addition to the interstates and federal highways, major routes include: :[[File:WA-99.svg|25px]] '''State Route 99 (WA-99)''' parallels the west side of I-5, linking [[Shoreline]] to Lynnwood and Everett. :[[File:WA-9.svg|25px]] '''State Route 9 (WA-9)''' parallels the east side of I-5 from [[Woodinville]] through Snohomish and Arlington. :[[File:WA-525.svg|25px]] [[File:WA-20.svg|25px]] '''State Route 525 (WA-525)''' connects the I-5/I-405 junction (exit 182 of I-5) to Keystone on Whidbey Island via Mukilteo-Clinton Ferry. From Keystone '''WA-20''' continues back towards I-5 in [[Burlington (Washington)|Burlington]] via Deception Pass and [[Anacortes]]. In the other direction WA-20 goes from Keystone towards [[Port Townsend]] via Coupeville-Pt Townsend Ferry. :[[File:WA-532.svg|25px]] '''Stanwood-Bryant Rd (WA-532)''' connects Camano Island and Stanwood to the I-5 corridor at exit 212. Traffic congestion is a major problem in the Puget Sound area on all freeways and major roads. Avoid traveling during rush hour if you can, particularly along I-5 and I-405. US-2 also backs up on weekends, as people drive back home from outdoor recreation. ==See== [[File:Boeing 767 Everett, Washington production view.jpg|250px|thumb|Boeing 767 being built in Boeing's Everett factory]] The region is a major player in the aerospace industry. [[Everett (Washington)|Everett]] and [[Mukilteo]] feature aviation museums and factory tours. ==Do== [[File:Double Rainbow at Wallace middle falls.jpg|200px|thumbnail|Wallace Falls, near Gold Bar]] '''Hiking''' trails cover the mountains, particularly along US-2 in the [[Skykomish Valley]] and the [[Mountain Loop Highway]]. [[Whidbey Island]] contains the region's premier coastal parks, rich in both history and natural beauty. The [[Edmonds]] Underwater Park is one of the most popular shore '''[[scuba diving|scuba dives]]''' in the state. The Tulalip Indian Reservation near [[Marysville (Washington)|Marysville]] features '''casinos'''. ===Events=== * '''Evergreen State Fair''' in [[Monroe (Washington)#Do|Monroe]], in August and September. ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Go next== * The [[Northwest Washington]] region: ** [[Mount Vernon_(Washington)|Mt Vernon]] and [[La Conner]] in the Skagit Valley — home of the Tulip Festival ** [[Bellingham (Washington)|Bellingham]] — the northernmost city in the contiguous US ** [[North Cascades National Park]] — jagged peaks, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls and over 300 glaciers ** [[Mount Baker]] — a ski resort with world-record snowfall in the shadow of a volcano * Across Stevens Pass: ** [[Leavenworth_(Washington)|Leavenworth]] — a "Bavarian" village in the heart of the Cascades ** [[Wenatchee]] — "The Apple Capital of the World" *[[King County]] — [[Seattle]], [[Bellevue]], [[Bothell]], [[Kirkland]], [[Shoreline]], [[Woodinville]] and [[Redmond_(Washington)|Redmond]] * Take a ferry to the [[Kitsap Peninsula]] * The [[San Juan Islands]] — a scattering of forested islands in the serene waters north of Puget Sound. Ferries, yachts, kayaks, and orca whales criss-cross the waters, while float planes and bald eagles soar overhead {{outlineregion}} {{IsPartOf|Puget Sound}} {{geo|48.1|-122.4|zoom=9}} tu0kb2mi5bpp2zmozj0181cppozr7g8 0 25256 5090768 4869066 2025-07-10T12:47:00Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Get in */ add a map 5090768 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. ==Do== *Walking *Riding *Visit markets and fairs *Bird watching *Shooting and hunting *Cycling ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. ==Eat== Local food as expected centres around the rich landscape and game. So you get meat and fish dishes. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. ==Sleep== The area has plenty of B&B and self-catering accommodation. There are hostels and camping barns There are local businesses offering green accommodation and [http://www.northumbria-byways.com/nat-park_region1.htm self-catering accommodation]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} throughout Northumberland. ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 6msk941xrwd7i4bgfpf4gyy4mipdqha 5090774 5090768 2025-07-10T12:53:14Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Added listing for Riverdale Hall Hotel - new listing 5090774 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. ==Do== *Walking *Riding *Visit markets and fairs *Bird watching *Shooting and hunting *Cycling ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. ==Eat== Local food as expected centres around the rich landscape and game. So you get meat and fish dishes. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. ==Sleep== The area has plenty of B&B and self-catering accommodation. There are hostels and camping barns There are local businesses offering green accommodation and [http://www.northumbria-byways.com/nat-park_region1.htm self-catering accommodation]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} throughout Northumberland. * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} jpkxsjvzm443v50t81cx49ej97g5wlb 5090777 5090774 2025-07-10T12:56:51Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Eat */ Added listing for Black Bull Hotel - new listing 5090777 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. ==Do== *Walking *Riding *Visit markets and fairs *Bird watching *Shooting and hunting *Cycling ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. ==Eat== Local food as expected centres around the rich landscape and game. So you get meat and fish dishes. * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. ==Sleep== The area has plenty of B&B and self-catering accommodation. There are hostels and camping barns There are local businesses offering green accommodation and [http://www.northumbria-byways.com/nat-park_region1.htm self-catering accommodation]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} throughout Northumberland. * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 9xfoh8vfba2dsju8jddhf0l94usm2ar 5090779 5090777 2025-07-10T13:00:57Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Eat */ Cheviot Hotel 5090779 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. ==Do== *Walking *Riding *Visit markets and fairs *Bird watching *Shooting and hunting *Cycling ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. ==Sleep== The area has plenty of B&B and self-catering accommodation. There are hostels and camping barns There are local businesses offering green accommodation and [http://www.northumbria-byways.com/nat-park_region1.htm self-catering accommodation]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} throughout Northumberland. * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} hu4tfjniq3g97dway6lnhaevmbhfruv 5090781 5090779 2025-07-10T13:05:46Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Fountain Cottage 5090781 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. ==Do== *Walking *Riding *Visit markets and fairs *Bird watching *Shooting and hunting *Cycling ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} rv7oerh7j42awtuilwhbkb7ly5lih3r 5090783 5090781 2025-07-10T13:09:25Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Hareshaw Linn 5090783 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. ==Do== *Walking *Riding *Visit markets and fairs *Bird watching *Shooting and hunting *Cycling ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} mtutl80t48oc06fr7s6j5wdfztlt7lo 5090786 5090783 2025-07-10T13:16:14Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Demesne Farm 5090786 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. ==Do== *Walking *Riding *Visit markets and fairs *Bird watching *Shooting and hunting *Cycling ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 927ua32hicdvs5nl4fo5kd7avlcpxs0 5090800 5090786 2025-07-10T13:23:55Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ golf 5090800 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} f0n318tv2lnkjkvxkghfmqnkw18ar2q 5090805 5090800 2025-07-10T13:28:59Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ The Barn 5090805 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 6frnjpew94tfuca81faipioq2e6dyox 5090809 5090805 2025-07-10T13:32:55Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Brown Rigg Lodges 5090809 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 875g1m5l43zlnv94rwa0zci9jjmt608 5090815 5090809 2025-07-10T13:36:13Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ event > 2025 5090815 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} ozitsp8c9jwkwymmd5b6rc3wxi9h55r 5090829 5090815 2025-07-10T13:40:50Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ caravan park 5090829 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} tjxacysw710ir6v92f74m8iifvt149o 5090840 5090829 2025-07-10T13:49:21Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ Added listing for Chipchase Castle - new listing 5090840 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 7d3kx03spv2f5lbazpps6j2gu5w9056 5090848 5090840 2025-07-10T13:55:26Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Pheasant Inn 5090848 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} From the north. A1 from Edinburgh. From the south. Either the A68 from Corbridge or the A1 trunk road From the east. Many small roads providing access into the park. From the west. A69 through to Corbridge and then the A68 north. By plane into Newcastle airport. By train, north east line to Newcastle and stations north. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} hmrk0uokixycirydlso2kmt5960wjj0 5090860 5090848 2025-07-10T14:22:19Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Get in */ expand 5090860 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. ==See== *[[Hadrian's Wall]], UNESCO site from Roman times. *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 7n7n9rojh3oicefe1fdaneriq69fbxo 5090864 5090860 2025-07-10T14:28:04Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ Hadrians Wall 5090864 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 2vb4icljg4gh3opjxhjpxbjv78fltp5 5090871 5090864 2025-07-10T14:40:31Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Kielder Campsite 5090871 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. ==Buy== There are many craft shops and some woolen mills converted to sell clothing and related items. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} h7xqh22u5771bqdk2o6qzspjqnczfr9 5090872 5090871 2025-07-10T14:42:58Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Buy */ stores 5090872 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} hwm5c8e5iyaonffjumfu1p0rkfj1xet 5090879 5090872 2025-07-10T14:50:08Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Eat */ Tea in the Train 5090879 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == *[[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. *[[Redesdale Valley]] and Border reiver history. *Visit the many medieval castles. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 4vssdw58xvbvchezlumntmimnfq7i20 5090886 5090879 2025-07-10T14:54:30Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ Heritage Centre 5090886 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * [[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. * Redesdale Valley and Border reiver history. * Visit the many medieval castles. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} drz7b2j4cs3158asvqmaasz7ivworbg 5090897 5090886 2025-07-10T14:59:34Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ Dark skies 5090897 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * [[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. * Redesdale Valley and Border reiver history. * Visit the many medieval castles. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching *Cycling * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} k5kyfw31enpumpiu2gudfsgq9gqw5mp 5090970 5090897 2025-07-10T17:21:50Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ boat trips 5090970 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * [[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. * Redesdale Valley and Border reiver history. * Visit the many medieval castles. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} az8afnb9b1dbu1845554akz2fayb3bh 5090971 5090970 2025-07-10T17:28:33Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Kielder Waterside 5090971 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * [[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. * Redesdale Valley and Border reiver history. * Visit the many medieval castles. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} g0hg6yj76yzdirnrnwcwelp461dqscf 5090982 5090971 2025-07-10T17:42:20Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ Dally Castle 5090982 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * [[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. * Redesdale Valley and Border reiver histo * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} k477e8mss9lk89ga5iqqv598dhfm2bm 5090986 5090982 2025-07-10T17:48:27Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ Kielder Castle 5090986 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * [[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. * Redesdale Valley and Border reiver histo * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park (charges) as a start point for hiking trails. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} hm0fbm4kj8kph3mx9utnzeqey1c40lw 5090989 5090986 2025-07-10T17:51:41Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ Kershope Castle 5090989 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * [[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. * Redesdale Valley and Border reiver histo * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park (charges) as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} haxd9ne5r56pf7gjl25lpzw9pmxcf9r 5090990 5090989 2025-07-10T17:56:30Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ Bellingham Castle 5090990 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * [[Cheviot Hills]] and surrounding area with Hill forts and wide open moorland. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Bellingham Castle | type=see | lat=55.1428 | long=-2.2510 }} survives only as an earthwork, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures disappeared by the 13th. * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park (charges) as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} bm6gosgdu0acel1beprxjb45uhuvn8m 5090993 5090990 2025-07-10T18:05:44Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ St Cuthbert's Church 5090993 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == *Walking *Riding *Bird watching * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} dh9zkfdn83yupkpkzdx4929v79wo0u7 5090996 5090993 2025-07-10T18:11:20Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ Pennine Way 5090996 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. ==Drink== [http://www.northumberlandbrewery.co.uk/ Northumberland brewery] provides local ale. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} tisu072jw5bz6oc2xer8if3486fcqw7 5090998 5090996 2025-07-10T18:14:39Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Drink */ named some 5090998 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None ==Get around== Large areas of Northumberland National Park are accessible to the public - you can walk feely on designated ‘Access Land’ without having to stay on rights-of-way. There are also visitor centres at [[Ingram]], Once Brewed, [[Alnwick]], [[Bellingham (Northumberland)|Bellingham]], [[Berwick-upon-Tweed]], [[Brampton (Cumbria)|Brampton]], [[Carlisle]], [[Newcastle upon Tyne|Newcastle]], [[Hexham]], [[Morpeth (England)|Morpeth]], [[Wooler]]. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 0j1fzenn1nak544stlcyk9kcmrdw634 5090999 5090998 2025-07-10T18:19:02Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Get around */ taxi 5090999 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park'''is the most northerly park in [[England]] and covers 1030 km². It is entirely within the county of [[Northumberland]]. [[Image:Schil.jpg|thumb|300px|The Schil, next to Cheviot Hill, access from the College Valley.]] ==Understand== There are two main geographical areas within the park. The [[Cheviot hills]] to the north and [[Kielder Forest]] to the South West. The park is generally very quiet, it gets very few visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbours like the [[Lake District National Park]]. ===History=== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} jjpvxd1rx2lsvznr6oqpzhwbcfiooba 5091007 5090999 2025-07-10T18:31:56Z Grahamsands 2164467 lede: explainer 5091007 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. ==Understand== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is at the south edge of this area. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 0nlurltnyo8ehqayeftuqffocnr7b8b 5091010 5091007 2025-07-10T18:43:27Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ Skyspace 5091010 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. ==Understand== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} s5c5cc7xvburj0scmj6jyukm5rtng0e 5091014 5091010 2025-07-10T18:49:11Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ Wave Chamber 5091014 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. ==Understand== The park was designated in 1956 and since then has steadily become more and more user friendly with visitor centres and programs to involve and educate visitors. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 7s4xzccatnf6pzatk56nzrge1lhbxcr 5091017 5091014 2025-07-10T18:55:22Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Understand */ interim save 5091017 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heathland until the 1920s, when there was a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} bo83ami6pa6lcjb7auct6ixn5r9ij1g 5091019 5091017 2025-07-10T19:08:40Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Understand */ interim save 5091019 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. ===Landscape=== The landscape is typically moorland, heather and conifer plantations. The Kielder reservoir is the largest body of water. Just over 70% of the area is open moorland. Heather is very common and approximately 20% of the park is heather moorland which gives beautiful autumn displays. This heather moorland is largely unique to the United Kingdom. There has been considerable habitat improvement with grouse moor management schemes. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} The park has red and roe deer, foxes, and badgers, while small mammals are very common. However the bird population is truly amazing. The open habitats host many different species including black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 7nuy09jjcdtlmfi2mcuxl4fpgskkff9 5091023 5091019 2025-07-10T19:22:52Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Understand */ interim save 5091023 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. ===Flora and fauna=== {{infobox|The lynx effect|There is an ongoing campaign by a group of scientists and conservationists to reintroduce '''Eurasian lynx''' to nearby Kielder Forest, an animal which became extinct in Britain in the Middle Ages. The controversial proposal has received mixed reactions locally: supporters argue the labrador-sized wild cat would bring many environmental benefits such as deer population control and a rebalanced ecosystem, while detractors fear that farmed sheep would prove an easier meal than the lynx's traditional diet of roe deer. One thing's for sure, the presence of a charismatic predator would certainly bring in the tourists. }} ===Climate=== Generally wet and windy. The north easterly gales sweeping in off the Atlantic are a common feature of the area. ===Visitor information === * [http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park] website == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} n8vikkngw7s19si3uytn88u1o3r7eyx 5091024 5091023 2025-07-10T19:30:16Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Understand */ interim save 5091024 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. There's always a debate about how far the primordial habitat can be recreated: what about lynx, wolves and bears? But even this large park is too small for those wide-ranging beasts, and they'd conflict with leisure and agriculture. Climate is mostly wet and windy. Kielder Water is at an altitude of 184 m / 604 ft, no great height but you need to dress for the weather. '''[http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park]''' website posts visitor information. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. ==Fees and permits== None == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 8rax603cv6qr1ybpppx4mys80ans8jn 5091025 5091024 2025-07-10T19:31:27Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Fees and permits */ move earlier 5091025 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. There's always a debate about how far the primordial habitat can be recreated: what about lynx, wolves and bears? But even this large park is too small for those wide-ranging beasts, and they'd conflict with leisure and agriculture. Climate is mostly wet and windy. Kielder Water is at an altitude of 184 m / 604 ft, no great height but you need to dress for the weather. '''[http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park]''' website posts visitor information. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} tetvlel86m2xwurb2intigtr5926z01 5091027 5091025 2025-07-10T19:32:42Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Understand */ conclude 5091027 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. There's always a debate about how far the primordial habitat can be recreated: what about lynx, wolves and bears? But even this large park is too small for those wide-ranging beasts, and they'd conflict with leisure and agriculture. Climate is mostly wet and windy. Kielder Water is at an altitude of 184 m / 604 ft, no great height but you need to dress for the weather. '''[http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park]''' website posts visitor information. There are no fees or permits needed for the park, but activities, parking, camping and so on are charged for. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} j53ier94aq7vochgzun2bny0dbkflpl 5091032 5091027 2025-07-10T19:39:47Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Understand */ skyspace pic from W Commons 5091032 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. [[File:Skyspace - geograph.org.uk - 2716234.jpg | thumb | 300px | Skyspace ]] There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. There's always a debate about how far the primordial habitat can be recreated: what about lynx, wolves and bears? But even this large park is too small for those wide-ranging beasts, and they'd conflict with leisure and agriculture. Climate is mostly wet and windy. Kielder Water is at an altitude of 184 m / 604 ft, no great height but you need to dress for the weather. '''[http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park]''' website posts visitor information. There are no fees or permits needed for the park, but activities, parking, camping and so on are charged for. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 9tiu8youisqe4o6gs1582lf1yg9rj1t 5091033 5091032 2025-07-10T19:42:14Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ castle pic from W Commons 5091033 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. [[File:Skyspace - geograph.org.uk - 2716234.jpg | thumb | 300px | Skyspace ]] There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. There's always a debate about how far the primordial habitat can be recreated: what about lynx, wolves and bears? But even this large park is too small for those wide-ranging beasts, and they'd conflict with leisure and agriculture. Climate is mostly wet and windy. Kielder Water is at an altitude of 184 m / 604 ft, no great height but you need to dress for the weather. '''[http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park]''' website posts visitor information. There are no fees or permits needed for the park, but activities, parking, camping and so on are charged for. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == [[File:Chipchase Castle 01.jpg | thumb | 300px | Chipchase Castle ]] * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} rb8gucnahmm45z2s3uxiaetcyhtixe2 5091034 5091033 2025-07-10T19:45:08Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ Wave Chamber pic from W Commons 5091034 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. [[File:Skyspace - geograph.org.uk - 2716234.jpg | thumb | 300px | Skyspace ]] There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. There's always a debate about how far the primordial habitat can be recreated: what about lynx, wolves and bears? But even this large park is too small for those wide-ranging beasts, and they'd conflict with leisure and agriculture. Climate is mostly wet and windy. Kielder Water is at an altitude of 184 m / 604 ft, no great height but you need to dress for the weather. '''[http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park]''' website posts visitor information. There are no fees or permits needed for the park, but activities, parking, camping and so on are charged for. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == [[File:Chipchase Castle 01.jpg | thumb | 300px | Chipchase Castle ]] * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. [[File:"Wave Chamber" - geograph.org.uk - 7493229.jpg | thumb | 300px | "Wave Chamber" ]] * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry trails, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} ivhm0cyupsdwal3mcbx6rkgu7w95knc 5091035 5091034 2025-07-10T19:49:37Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ forest pic from W Commons 5091035 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. [[File:Skyspace - geograph.org.uk - 2716234.jpg | thumb | 300px | Skyspace ]] There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. There's always a debate about how far the primordial habitat can be recreated: what about lynx, wolves and bears? But even this large park is too small for those wide-ranging beasts, and they'd conflict with leisure and agriculture. Climate is mostly wet and windy. Kielder Water is at an altitude of 184 m / 604 ft, no great height but you need to dress for the weather. '''[http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park]''' website posts visitor information. There are no fees or permits needed for the park, but activities, parking, camping and so on are charged for. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == [[File:Chipchase Castle 01.jpg | thumb | 300px | Chipchase Castle ]] * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. [[File:"Wave Chamber" - geograph.org.uk - 7493229.jpg | thumb | 300px | "Wave Chamber" ]] * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == [[File:Track in Kielder Forest - geograph.org.uk - 204456.jpg | thumb | 300px | Forestry tracks are firm going ]] * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry tracks, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 279b5p7j8yfqc4lqjsxse9mzbx1o74z 5091036 5091035 2025-07-10T19:52:27Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Eat */ church pic from W Commons 5091036 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. [[File:Skyspace - geograph.org.uk - 2716234.jpg | thumb | 300px | Skyspace ]] There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. There's always a debate about how far the primordial habitat can be recreated: what about lynx, wolves and bears? But even this large park is too small for those wide-ranging beasts, and they'd conflict with leisure and agriculture. Climate is mostly wet and windy. Kielder Water is at an altitude of 184 m / 604 ft, no great height but you need to dress for the weather. '''[http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park]''' website posts visitor information. There are no fees or permits needed for the park, but activities, parking, camping and so on are charged for. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == [[File:Chipchase Castle 01.jpg | thumb | 300px | Chipchase Castle ]] * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. [[File:"Wave Chamber" - geograph.org.uk - 7493229.jpg | thumb | 300px | "Wave Chamber" ]] * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == [[File:Track in Kielder Forest - geograph.org.uk - 204456.jpg | thumb | 300px | Forestry tracks are firm going ]] * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry tracks, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == [[File:St Cuthbert's, Bellingham (Transept).jpg | thumb | 300px | Barrel vault of St Cuthbert's ]] * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} iiqx7atsu9izjc0dzljw2i8m39rri2u 5091037 5091036 2025-07-10T19:55:10Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Eat */ Tea on the Train from W Commons 5091037 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. [[File:Skyspace - geograph.org.uk - 2716234.jpg | thumb | 300px | Skyspace ]] There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. There's always a debate about how far the primordial habitat can be recreated: what about lynx, wolves and bears? But even this large park is too small for those wide-ranging beasts, and they'd conflict with leisure and agriculture. Climate is mostly wet and windy. Kielder Water is at an altitude of 184 m / 604 ft, no great height but you need to dress for the weather. '''[http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park]''' website posts visitor information. There are no fees or permits needed for the park, but activities, parking, camping and so on are charged for. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == [[File:Chipchase Castle 01.jpg | thumb | 300px | Chipchase Castle ]] * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. [[File:"Wave Chamber" - geograph.org.uk - 7493229.jpg | thumb | 300px | "Wave Chamber" ]] * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == [[File:Track in Kielder Forest - geograph.org.uk - 204456.jpg | thumb | 300px | Forestry tracks are firm going ]] * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry tracks, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == [[File:The Bellingham Belle for "Tea on the Train" - geograph.org.uk - 7822965.jpg | thumb | 300px | Tea on the Train ]] * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} 9j85ambc02j57tdmwh14crqljhfae6d 5091038 5091037 2025-07-10T19:55:45Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ church pic moved here 5091038 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. [[File:Skyspace - geograph.org.uk - 2716234.jpg | thumb | 300px | Skyspace ]] There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. There's always a debate about how far the primordial habitat can be recreated: what about lynx, wolves and bears? But even this large park is too small for those wide-ranging beasts, and they'd conflict with leisure and agriculture. Climate is mostly wet and windy. Kielder Water is at an altitude of 184 m / 604 ft, no great height but you need to dress for the weather. '''[http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park]''' website posts visitor information. There are no fees or permits needed for the park, but activities, parking, camping and so on are charged for. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == [[File:Chipchase Castle 01.jpg | thumb | 300px | Chipchase Castle ]] * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. [[File:"Wave Chamber" - geograph.org.uk - 7493229.jpg | thumb | 300px | "Wave Chamber" ]] * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == [[File:Track in Kielder Forest - geograph.org.uk - 204456.jpg | thumb | 300px | Forestry tracks are firm going ]] * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry tracks, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == [[File:The Bellingham Belle for "Tea on the Train" - geograph.org.uk - 7822965.jpg | thumb | 300px | Tea on the Train ]] * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == [[File:St Cuthbert's, Bellingham (Transept).jpg | thumb | 300px | Barrel vault of St Cuthbert's ]] * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} ==Connect== The official national park details are here [http://www.nnpa.org.uk/]. {{outlinepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} {{geo|55.316666666667|-2.2166666666667}} h5t4zhacmm6ypr93yjsa73gxsyb3l6x 5091040 5091038 2025-07-10T20:01:25Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Connect */ maybe 5091040 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. [[File:Skyspace - geograph.org.uk - 2716234.jpg | thumb | 300px | Skyspace ]] There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. There's always a debate about how far the primordial habitat can be recreated: what about lynx, wolves and bears? But even this large park is too small for those wide-ranging beasts, and they'd conflict with leisure and agriculture. Climate is mostly wet and windy. Kielder Water is at an altitude of 184 m / 604 ft, no great height but you need to dress for the weather. '''[http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park]''' website posts visitor information. There are no fees or permits needed for the park, but activities, parking, camping and so on are charged for. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == [[File:Chipchase Castle 01.jpg | thumb | 300px | Chipchase Castle ]] * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. [[File:"Wave Chamber" - geograph.org.uk - 7493229.jpg | thumb | 300px | "Wave Chamber" ]] * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == [[File:Track in Kielder Forest - geograph.org.uk - 204456.jpg | thumb | 300px | Forestry tracks are firm going ]] * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry tracks, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == [[File:The Bellingham Belle for "Tea on the Train" - geograph.org.uk - 7822965.jpg | thumb | 300px | Tea on the Train ]] * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == [[File:St Cuthbert's, Bellingham (Transept).jpg | thumb | 300px | Barrel vault of St Cuthbert's ]] * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} == Connect == As of July 2025, Bellingham and its approach roads have a patchy basic mobile signal from all UK carriers. 5G has not reached this area. == Go next == {{geo | 55.145 | -2.254 }} {{usablepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} mq5mhxj44hbnehumeafmax11j4egmad 5091043 5091040 2025-07-10T20:05:47Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Go next */ one-liners 5091043 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Northumberland National Park banner Kielder Water.jpg|caption=Kielder Water}} '''Northumberland National Park''' is in [[Northumberland]], with hills and forests along the border with Scotland. The park is bisected by A68 and this page describes facilities west of that highway. {{marker | name=Bellingham | type=city | lat=55.145 | long=-2.254 }} is the main village in this part. Kielder Water is the large reservoir to its northwest. [[Cheviot Hills]] describes the terrain along A68, where Otterburn is the main village, and points northeast of there. == Understand == When Northumberland National Park was designated in 1956 it covered the tract east of A68. The land on both sides had been mostly open heath until the 1920s, used for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There was then a national programme of forestry planting, and Kielder Forest was created northwest of Bellingham. In the 1960s the Tyne-Tees conurbation needed more water, chiefly to supply its heavy industries of steel, glass, metal-bashing and chemicals. A huge reservoir was therefore planned for Kielder Forest, but it took until 1974 to get Parliamentary approval. The reservoir was completed in 1981 and took another two years to fill, displacing almost 100 residents, and nicely in time to be surplus to requirements as all that heavy industry had collapsed. They'd built a white elephant. [[File:Skyspace - geograph.org.uk - 2716234.jpg | thumb | 300px | Skyspace ]] There was however growing demand for leisure facilities for the cities, and people had cars so they could transport kayaks and bouncy dogs up quiet valleys, so the area re-focused on recreation. There was also a switch away from conifer monoculture as demand dwindled for paper products such as newspapers. More diverse forest and upland vegetation supports a broader range of wildlife and is better at carbon capture. The park has red and roe deer, foxes, badgers and small prey. Birds include black grouse, curlew, merlin, and red grouse. Along the valleys are heron and kingfisher. There's always a debate about how far the primordial habitat can be recreated: what about lynx, wolves and bears? But even this large park is too small for those wide-ranging beasts, and they'd conflict with leisure and agriculture. Climate is mostly wet and windy. Kielder Water is at an altitude of 184 m / 604 ft, no great height but you need to dress for the weather. '''[http://www.northumberland-national-park.org.uk/ Northumberland National Park]''' website posts visitor information. There are no fees or permits needed for the park, but activities, parking, camping and so on are charged for. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.150 | -2.400 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=10 }} By road from the south, leave A69 at Acomb near Hexham, and follow B6320 to Bellingham. Here a lane branches northwest to Kielder Water and across into Scotland. From the north, simplest is to follow A68 through Jedburgh and across the border, turning onto B6320. But for Kielder Water take B6357 from Jedburgh via Bonchester Bridge to pick up the lane across the border. The nearest railway station is [[Hexham]], with trains every 30 min on the Newcastle-Carlisle line. Tynelinks Bus 680 runs M-Sa every two hours from Hexham to Acomb, Wall, Humshaugh, Wark and Bellingham (50 min). [https://telfordscoaches.com/ Telford's Bus] 693 runs Saturday only from Bellingham every two hours to Stannersburn and Kielder. == Get around == Much of the Park is designated "Access Land" - you can walk freely without having to stay on rights-of-way. You need wheels to reach the scattered sights, amenities and trailheads. Bellingham Taxis are on +44 1434 220570. == See == [[File:Chipchase Castle 01.jpg | thumb | 300px | Chipchase Castle ]] * '''[https://bellingham-heritage.org.uk/ The Heritage Centre]''' is a small museum within the former Bellingham railway station. It's open April - mid-Oct Tu-Su 10AM-4PM, donation. * '''St Cuthbert's Church''' (Anglican) in Bellingham village centre is 13th century, rebuilt in the 17th. The nave has an unusual barrel vault. * '''Bellingham Castle''' survives only as an earthwork across the road from the Heritage Centre, and was probably never much more than that. It was erected in the 12th century but all structures had disappeared by the 13th. * {{see | name=Chipchase Castle | alt= | url=https://www.chipchasecastle.com/ | email= | address=Wark NE48 3NT | lat=55.0756 | long=-2.186 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 230203 | tollfree= | hours=Gardens mid-June to mid-July daily 1-5PM | price=Adult £12 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Jacobean mansion of 1641, incorporating the pele-tower of its 14th century predecessor. The gardens are open for a month in midsummer, the castle is occasionally an events venue but not routinely open to the public. }} * {{marker | name=Dally Castle | type=see | lat=55.1533 | long=-2.3549 }} is the scraps of a motte-and-bailey fortress of 1237. Most of its stone has gone into the adjacent farm house. [[File:"Wave Chamber" - geograph.org.uk - 7493229.jpg | thumb | 300px | "Wave Chamber" ]] * {{marker | name=Wave Chamber | type=see | lat=55.1871 | long=-2.4798 }} resembles a medieval "beehive" monastic cell, but it's modern. It was intended as a ''camera obscura'' reflecting the ripples on the lake, but the mirror has been broken for years. * {{marker | name=[https://www.kielderandbordercottages.com/ Kielder Castle] | type=see | lat=55.2339 | long=-2.5804 }} has been made-over into upscale holiday cottages. Most visitors just use the car park as a start point for hiking trails. * '''Kershope Castle''' may well be Northumberland's most utterly ruined castle. It's a mile north of Kielder village engulfed by the forest, and best left there. * {{marker | name=Skyspace | type=see | lat=55.2276 | long=-2.6101 }} is a James Tyrell installation: the plain chamber focuses your attention on the ever-changing sky above. * '''[[Hadrian's Wall]]''' is beyond the south edge of the park. It runs coast-to-coast, but the best of it is the 20 mile stretch north of Hexham to Greenhead. Elsewhere the masonry has been recycled into farmhouses, leaving only an earthwork. * '''Dark skies:''' on any cloud-free night, walk 100 yards from any light source and give your eyes 10 min to adjust, and the Milky Way and other celestial sights will swim into view. But in summer the sky is never totally dark, and you need to come Nov-March for the [[Northern Lights]] to be visible. * '''See [[Cheviot Hills]]''' for the National Park east of A68. == Do == [[File:Track in Kielder Forest - geograph.org.uk - 204456.jpg | thumb | 300px | Forestry tracks are firm going ]] * '''[[Pennine Way]]''' hiking trail follows Hadrian's Wall from Greenhead to Housesteads Roman Fort then strikes north to Bellingham and Byrness. It's mostly on forestry tracks, firm going but not particularly scenic. See [[Cheviot Hills]] for the path onward from Byrness, ascending the spine of hills before a final descent to Kirk Yetholm in Scotland. * '''[https://www.kielderwaterside.com/activities/osprey-ferry/ Osprey Ferry]''' makes a one-hour tour of the east end of Kielder Water. It sails Apr-Sep twice a day W Sa Su, adult £13, child £9. It's not a point-to-point ferry. * '''Golf:''' [https://bellinghamgolfclub.com/ Bellingham GC] is north side of the village. White tees 6093 yards, par 70, visitor round £40. * '''[https://www.baafest.co.uk/ Baafest]''' is an acoustic music festival by Brown Rigg Lodges in Bellingham, with the next on 4-7 Sep 2025. == Buy == Co-op Food in Bellingham is open daily 7AM-10PM. == Eat == [[File:The Bellingham Belle for "Tea on the Train" - geograph.org.uk - 7822965.jpg | thumb | 300px | Tea on the Train ]] * {{eat | name=Black Bull Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2JP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 395543 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Serving hearty trad fare, and they have rooms. }} * {{eat | name=Cheviot Hotel | alt= | url=https://thecheviot.pub/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2AU | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7927 211130 | tollfree= | hours= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cosy dog-friendly pub in an 18th century coaching inn, with rooms. }} * '''[https://teaonthetrain.com/ Tea on the Train]''' is a cafe in a railway carriage next to the Heritage Centre. The carriage is modern and never served this line, which closed to passengers in 1956. The cafe is open daily 10AM-4PM. == Drink == Black Bull and Cheviot Hotel are the public bars in Bellingham Local breweries are in the Tyne Valley, with "First & Last" near Otterburn. == Sleep == [[File:St Cuthbert's, Bellingham (Transept).jpg | thumb | 300px | Barrel vault of St Cuthbert's ]] * {{sleep | name=Fountain Cottage | alt= | url=https://fountain-cottage.com/ | email= | address=Main St, Bellingham NE48 2DE | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239224 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart dog-friendly B&B with popular cafe. }} * {{sleep | name=Riverdale Hall Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk/ | email= | address=Riverdale Close, Bellingham NE48 2JT | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220254 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £160 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Comfy friendly hotel in a converted mansion of 1886. Good grub. }} * {{sleep | name=Demesne Farm Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.demesnefarmcampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Pennine Way, Bellingham NE48 2BS | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1434 220258 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £12 ppn, caravan £25 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Well-equipped camping and caravan site east side of village, open May-Sep. }} * '''[https://horizonholidayparks.co.uk/hareshaw-linn-caravan-park/ Hareshaw Linn Caravan Park]''' has static units for sale or let but doesn't accept tourers or campers. * {{sleep | name=The Barn B&B | alt= | url=https://www.thebarnbandbbellingham.co.uk/ | email= | address=The Croft, Bellingham NE48 2JY | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 7850 795762 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £90 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Great reviews for this comfy guest house south across the river from the village. }} * '''[https://www.brownrigglodges.com/ Brown Rigg Lodges]''' are self-catering prefab cabins 200 yards south of The Barn. * '''[https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/northumberland/hexham/bellingham-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site]''' is half a mile south of the village past Brown Rigg. * {{sleep | name=Pheasant Inn | alt= | url=https://www.thepheasantinn.com/ | email= | address=Stannersburn NE48 1DD | lat=55.1728 | long=-2.4379 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 240382 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £170 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Smart pub with rooms near Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Waterside | alt= | url=https://www.kielderwaterside.com/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1BT | lat=55.1832 | long=-2.5346 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 251000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Cabins and activities around Kielder Water. }} * {{sleep | name=Kielder Campsite | alt= | url=https://www.kieldercampsite.co.uk/ | email= | address=Kielder NE48 1EJ | lat=55.2374 | long=-2.5909 | directions= | phone=+44 1434 239257 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Camping £8 ppn | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Friendly well-run site above Kielder Water. }} == Connect == As of July 2025, Bellingham and its approach roads have a patchy basic mobile signal from all UK carriers. 5G has not reached this area. == Go next == * [[Hexham]] has an ancient abbey and is a good base for exploring the pastoral Tyne valley. * Otterburn is the main village in the [[Cheviot Hills]]. * [[Jedburgh]] is the first town encountered in Scotland. Mary Queen of Scots slept here, and everywhere else. {{geo | 55.145 | -2.254 }} {{usablepark}} {{IsPartOf|Northumberland}} 9dax8juzs3cja4dkgjx6fc01k3cv813 0 26352 5090977 5046249 2025-07-10T17:37:27Z R. Henrik Nilsson 2273145 beautifuly > beautifully 5090977 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Oxford Mississippi Wikivoyage banner.jpg|pgname=Oxford|otbp=yes}} '''[http://www.oxfordms.net/ Oxford]''' is a historic, picturesque town in North Central [[Mississippi]]. With its scenic town square, acclaimed restaurants, unique boutiques, oak-shaded neighborhoods, and friendly people, Oxford is the model Southern town. Named after Oxford, [[England]], in hopes of attracting a university, the town was selected as the home of the University of Mississippi in 1848, which dominates life here today. [[File:Oxford - Peabody Hall.jpg|thumb|350px|Peabody Hall]] ==Understand== Oxford is the home of the University of Mississippi, affectionately known as '''Ole Miss''', and is in Lafayette County, outside the Oxford city limits. It also served as the inspiration for Nobel Prize winner William Faulkner's fictional Jefferson (Lafayette County being Yoknapatawpha), the locale of many of his novels. Oxonians and University members like to describe the town with the motto "We may not win every game, but we never lose a party." Locals, partially jokingly, refer to the Square as the "Center of the Universe." Many residents see Oxford as a small town [[New Orleans]], calling it the '''Little Easy'''. It is widely known throughout the South for its Southern charm, Old South feel, party atmosphere, and its beautiful women, whom even Hugh Hefner called the finest in the world. Oxford is also considered a literary center with many writers calling it home. Also being home to the Ole Miss School of Law and a federal courthouse, it is often said that everyone in Oxford is a "lawyer, writer, or both." As if to prove this point, famous author John Grisham, an Ole Miss Law alum, still owns a house in Oxford and visits frequently. '''The Square''' is the center of downtown and is the main location for the town's best restaurants, shops, bars, and scenery (of the Old South architecture and gorgeous Southern belles). Chain restaurants, a Walmart Supercenter, and other national retailers are located on the fringes of town. However, most locals are staunchly anti-chain. They actively protested the arrival of Applebee's and the Walmart Supercenter, even voting out the old mayor because she did not do more to stop it. Therefore, to truly enjoy Oxford, you must visit the Square and eat and shop at locally-owned establishments. Otherwise, you are wasting your time visiting and are missing out if you only come for a football game. Immerse yourself in the town to see why ''Reader's Digest'' proclaimed, "If Oxford didn't exist, it would have to be invented." As ''National Geographic Traveler'' magazine wrote, "Sophisticated little Oxford is waiting for you." ==Get in== {{mapframe|34.3668|-89.5186|zoom=12}} ===By plane=== The closest airports with airline service are in '''[http://www.memphisairport.org/ Memphis]''', 70 miles to the north, and '''[http://www.flytupelo.com/ Tupelo]''', 45 miles to the east. Memphis is a major hub for [http://www.delta.com/ Delta Air Lines] and is thus the preferred airport. Tupelo has daily flights to Memphis and Atlanta. '''[http://www.olemiss.edu/depts/airport/ University-Oxford Airport]''', also known as Clegg Field, offers service to private planes, including jets. The airport has a 5,600-foot runway with a terminal and aviation full-services. ===By train=== For passenger service, the nearest [[Amtrak]] stops are on the City of New Orleans line in [[Memphis]] and [[Greenwood (Mississippi)|Greenwood, Mississippi]]. The train will take you to Chicago or New Orleans. ===By car=== Major highways in the area are as follows: *'''North-south''' - State Highways 7, 9, 315 and 331 *'''East-west''' - State Highways 6,30,314,328 and 334 *'''Highway 6''' - Connects with Interstate 55 From Memphis or [[Jackson (Mississippi)|Jackson]] (Miss.) take I-55 to Batesville and exit '''MS Hwy 6 East'''. Take the '''Old Taylor Rd.''' or '''Coliseum Dr.''' exits to access the University. Exit at '''South Lamar Blvd.''' to get to the Square and downtown. Oxford is approximately 25 miles from [[Batesville (Mississippi)|Batesville]]. It takes about an hour and 15 minutes to travel to Oxford from Memphis, about 2½ hours from Jackson, and about 45 minutes from [[Tupelo]]. A shorter route from Memphis and Jackson is '''Hwy 7''', but this road is two-lane. However, from the eastern suburbs of Memphis, it is faster to take '''Hwy 78''' to Hwy 7. From downtown, the airport, and Southaven, '''I-55''' to Hwy 6 is faster. ===By bus=== *'''Greyhound''' bus service to Oxford was suspended. The closest Greyhound bus stop is in Tupelo. ==Get around== The public transportation is called the O-U-T. It has several lines that run through all of the major points around town. The best way to get around is by foot, as Oxford is a beautiful town to walk and parking is scarce downtown and on campus. The second best way is by car. Once you find a place to park on campus, stay there and walk everywhere you want to go. The same applies to downtown. Once you figure out how to navigate the square (it will take awhile) and the surrounding one-way streets, you can find a place to park by cruising the back alleys. If you park illegally, you will get an expensive ticket. Do not drink and drive as the cops keep a watchful eye on the byways, not to mention you are risking your life and the lives of others. You can avoid this by walking home, hitching a ride (it's easy to find a ride from a friendly stranger on the Square), or calling a cab. ===Taxi=== * {{listing | name=Oxford Taxi | alt= | url= | email= | address=110 Victory Hill Lane | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 701-7310 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} ===Car rental=== *'''[https://www.enterprise.com/en/car-rental/locations/us/ms/oxford-55c7.html Enterprise Rent A Car]''', 201A Ricky D Britt Sr Blvd, +1 662 281-0508. ===Limousine service=== *'''[https://oxfordlimo.net/ Oxford Executive Transportation]''', +1 662-259-0508 *'''[http://www.southerncomfortlimos.com Southern Comfort Limo's]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', 12 Dell Street, Batesville, Mississippi, +1 662 563-5466. Oxford is a certified Bicycle-Friendly Community. There are many bike paths open to the public; however, many car drivers are not fans of cyclists. It is best to stick to sidewalks and watch when crossing intersections. ===Bicycle=== *'''[http://www.loupathways.org/ LOU Pathways]{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. This organization is in charge of developing the pathways system in the Oxford area. Its website includes numerous maps and ride advice. *'''[https://www.facebook.com/OxfordCycling Oxford Cycling Club]'''. The local bike club maintains maps and organizes rides such as the Double Decker Spring Ride and the Clear Creek Challenge. ==See== {{quote|The past is never dead. It's not even past.|author=William Faulkner|source=''Requiem for a Nun''}} Oxford is an historic town best seen by foot. Begin with the antebellum buildings on campus, the Courthouse Square, and Rowan Oak. Soak up the town and meet some of the locals while you are at it! *'''The Historic Oxford Courthouse''': Located in the heart of the city, the Square. Burned by federal troops in 1864, it was rebuilt after the war and is scheduled to undergo an extensive restoration. Visitors are allowed to browse the building on their own. The courtroom upstairs is a step back in time. [[File:Lafayette Co Mississippi courthouse during Double Decker Festival.jpg|thumb|Lafayette Courthouse during Double Decker Festival]] * {{see | name=Rowan Oak | alt= | url=http://www.rowanoak.com/ | email= | address= | lat=34.3598 | long=-89.5247 | directions= | phone=+1 662 234-3284 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Rowan Oak | image=Rowan Oak 1.jpg | wikidata=Q7371803 | content=Old Taylor Road. The home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner. This historic home and grounds located just blocks from the Square. Faulkner even wrote part of a novel on the wall of his bedroom, later uncovered during a renovation. Walking tours available. Free admission on Wednesdays, $5 on other weekdays (donations always accepted). Entrance to the grounds is free, open until sunset. }} [[File:Rowan Oak 1.jpg|thumb|Rowan Oak, Home of William Faulkner]] *'''Oxford Cemetery''', Here are buried such notables as William Faulkner and LQC Lamar, Confederate Ambassador to Russia, and Mississippi's only US Supreme Court Justice. Tradition calls for visitors of Faulkner's grave to leave a pint of whiskey, though scotch is what he would prefer. *'''The Grove''', on the campus of the University of Mississippi. During the early Spring it has the appearance of a nicely manicured park, but during football season it turns into the most revered tailgating locale in all of college football. Sports Illustrated rates tailgating in the Grove, a multi-acre green space in the heart of the Ole Miss campus, as one of America's premier college events, placing it No. 3 on a list of 100 things to do before graduating. Bring your "refreshments" and your Sunday best. See the "Cope" section below for an important rule while tailgating. * {{see | name=Southside Gallery | alt= | url=http://southsideartgallery.com/ | email= | address=150 Courthouse Square | lat= | long= | directions=on the square | phone=+1 662 234-9090 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= An intimate collection of changing art pieces located in the heart of Oxford, The Square. Free admission. This is a nice stop if you are browsing the Square during the day or if you are waiting on a table at night. }} * {{see | name=University Museum | alt= | url=http://museum.olemiss.edu | email= | address=5th & University Avenue | lat=34.3643 | long=-89.5253 | directions= | phone=+1 662 915-7073 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 9:30AM-4:30PM, Su 1-4PM, closed most University holidays | price= | wikidata=Q7895820 | content=Features Greek and Roman antiques, 19th-century scientific instruments, the Theora Hamblett collection, a growing Southern folk art collection, and other temporary exhibits. There is an unpaved natural trail that leads from the museum parking lot to Rowan Oak (Faulkner's home). It is an easy walk that will give you a glimpse of an old-growth Mississippi forest, and it will also give you an idea of the jungle that the first settlers here had to clear in order to build their plantations. }} *'''Ole Miss Blues Archives''', University of Mississippi Campus, +1 662 915-7753. The world's most extensive collection of blues recordings and related material. If you are a blues enthusiast, this is a must-see. B.B. King recorded a live album (''Live at Ole Miss'') in the Grove. *'''The Lyceum''', The first building on the Ole Miss campus. Seen as a symbol of the University. Used as a Confederate hospital during the Civil War. The front columns contain bullet holes from the integration of James Meredith. Stop by the Chancellor's office located on the first floor, and someone will be glad to give you a tour of the beautiful building. Even the friendly Chancellor loves to meet visitors. [[File:Lyceumfromlibrary.JPG|thumb|The Lyceum]] *'''Ventress Hall''', a 19th-century Victorian building on the edge of The Grove. Originally used as a library, now the home of the College of Liberal Arts. Inside is a huge stained glass window depicting a battle scene from The War(unless otherwise specified, "the war" in the deep South means the one taking place between 1861 and 1865). The window was commissioned by the Delta Gamma Sorority from the Tiffany Glass Company to honor the University Greys, a company comprised completely of Ole Miss students that suffered 100 percent casualties at the battle of Gettysburg. The turret contains a winding staircase filled with graffiti over 100 years old. Legend has it that William Faulkner got intoxicated, climbed to the top of the turret, and began shouting "Hotty Toddy" — the school's unofficial cheer. However, this is likely merely a legend, but a darn good one. A member of the staff inside would be happy to give you a brief tour. * {{see | name=Center for the Study of Southern Culture | alt=Barnard Observatory | url=http://southernstudies.olemiss.edu | email= | address= | lat=34.366111 | long=-89.534444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5059969 | lastedit=2020-10-19 | content=Another antebellum building on campus that was built to house the world's largest telescope. It is widely believed among locals that the telescope was being shipped during the war when it was captured by Yankee troops and sent to Northwestern University. However, it is more likely that the University could no longer afford to pay for the telescope after the war began, and Northwestern bought it instead. The building was never used as an observatory and is now home to the Center for the Study of Southern Culture and hosts small exhibits. }} * {{see | name=Confederate Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-19 | content=behind Tad Smith Coliseum on the Ole Miss campus. It is the resting place of more than 700 Confederate dead, mostly from the Battle of Shiloh. University buildings were used as hospitals and headquarters of both Union and Confederate forces between 1862 and 1865. All those buried here perished on the grounds of the University. While many names are known (they are etched on a monument in the center of the cemetery) most buried here are unknown soldiers. Union dead were once buried here as well, but long ago moved to a national cemetery. One of Oxford and Ole Miss' lesser known sites, it is a must-see for Civil War Buffs. }} * {{see | name=UM Department of Archives and Special Collections | alt= | url=http://www.libraries.olemiss.edu/uml/archives-special-collections | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A must for any Faulkner aficionado. It's in the '''J.D. Williams Library''', and houses over 300 manuscript collections, the '''William Faulkner Collection''', University archival collections, Mississippi State documents, and in the Mississippi Collections over 20,000 volumes of Mississippiana. It is moving soon to the beautifully restored and historic Bryant Hall. }} ==Do== Oxford features a regular rotation of notable speakers, art exhibits, plays, musical productions, conferences and concerts in the Grove. The '''Ford Center''' has a regular rotation of a variety of performing arts. The '''Lott Leadership Institute''' sponsors well-known speakers, such as Supreme Court justices, senators and royalty. Past speakers include John McCain, Antonin Scalia, and the King of Jordan. The '''[http://events.olemiss.edu/ Ole Miss events calendar]''' has a list of most upcoming events. The biggest event of the year, other than football games, is the '''Double Decker Arts and Music Festival'''. A favorite of many is the weekly '''Thacker Mountain Radio Show''', where area musicians perform in front a live audience. If culture isn't your thing, the area features several golf courses, the huge Sardis Reservoir, a few state parks and recreation areas, and a couple of day spas. * {{do | name=Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts | alt= | url=http://www.olemiss.edu/depts/fordcenter | email= | address=100 University Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 915-2787 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A performing arts center featuring a range of performances from classical and popular artists, noted speakers and theatrical performances. The grounds also include a memorial rose garden and a smaller sculpture. }} * {{do | name=The Thacker Mountain Radio Show | alt= | url=http://www.thackermountain.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A weekly live-broadcast, which takes place in Oxford's Off-Square Books. Part Austin City Limits, part Prairie Home Companion, this eclectic show is the perfect representation of the down-home-hip character of Oxford. Each week the radio show features the Thacker Mountain house band and other well-recognized authors reading from and signing their latest work. Attracts a crowd of visitors and locals. Great pre-dinner or pre-happy hour entertainment. }} *'''Big Truck Theater''', Taylor, MS. This variety show is sort of ''Austin City Limits'' meets Taylor Grocery. Early in the night individual performers go on stage. Later, a 10-piece band comes out and livens the place up. You can find it next to Taylor Arts just down from Taylor Grocery. * {{do | name=Grand Oaks | alt= | url=http://www.thecountryclubofoxford.com | email= | address=1603 Grand Oaks Boulevard | lat= | long= | directions=at the Country Club of Oxford | phone =+1 662 236-3008 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Enjoy the beautiful outdoors as you play this 18-hole golf course. It is undergoing an extensive renovation as a Fazio-designed course. }} * {{do | name=University Golf Club | alt= | url=http://www.olemiss.edu/depts/golf/index.html | email= | address=College Hill Rd.-147 CR 1056 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 234-4816 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= The University Golf Club is maintained by the Landscape Services Department at the University. The course is an 18-hole, par 72 golf course and a driving range. }} * {{do | name=Malco's Oxford Studio Cinema | alt= | url=http://www.malco.com | email= | address=1111 Jackson Ave W | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 236-3000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This movie theater features rocking-chair stadium seating and is the host of the annual [http://www.oxfordfilmfest.com Oxford Film Festival] in February. }} * {{do | name=Mallard Pointe Golf Course | alt= | url=https://golfmallardpointe.com/ | email= | address=3037 State Park Road, Sardis | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 487-2400 | tollfree=+1-888-TEE-MISS | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A public 18-hole golf course just outside of Oxford in the beautiful John Kyle State Park. This has been ranked as one of the great public courses to play by several golf publications. For Ole Miss students M-Th, it's less than $17 including cart. For weekend visitors, it's about $45. }} * {{listing | type=do | name=John W. Kyle State Park | alt= | url=http://mississippistateparks.reserveamerica.com/ms/John_W_Kyle/Campground/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=MS&parkId=152813 | email= | address=4235 State Park Road, Sardis | lat=34.4306 | long=-89.8028 | directions= | phone=+1 662 487-1345 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6262365 | content=Features 20 air-conditioned cabins, furnished with basic kitchen equipment and bed and bath linens. All of the cabins are near the water, have fire places and accommodate up to four people. There are 2 cabins on the [https://golfmallardpointe.com/ Mallard Pointe Golf Course]. Each of these cabins consists of 4 bedrooms, and they're equipped much the same as the other cabins. Reservations are required. }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Puskus Lake Recreation Area | alt= | url=https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mississippi/recarea/?recid=28855 | email= | address= | lat=34.438333 | long=-89.348056 | directions= | phone=+1 662 236-6550 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q49546908 | content=About 10 miles east of Oxford on Highway 30. The Puskus Lake Recreation Area is a lovely place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Holly Springs National Forest. Those looking for an alternative to crowded, concrete recreation areas will delight in Puskus Lake's natural beauty and quiet setting. Its remote setting, convenient to Oxford, provides a perfect atmosphere for camping, fishing, hiking and relaxing. }} * {{do | name=Sardis Lake/Clear Creek | alt= | url=https://www.mvk.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Sardis-Lake/Sardis-Lake-Recreation/ | email= | address=Sardis | lat= | long= | directions=8 Miles North on Highway 314 | phone=+1 662 563-4531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Sardis Lake area offers a wide variety of recreational activities such as camping, fishing, boating, skiing, picnicking, and more. There are 32 sites available with electricity, picnic tables, grills, water hookups, etc. Campground is open year round. Reservations must be made in advance. }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Upper Sardis Wildlife Management Area | alt= | url=https://www.mdwfp.com/wildlife-hunting/wma/region/northwest/upper-sardis/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Lafayette County &mdash; from the intersection of Hwy. 7 and Hwy. 30 at Oxford go 12 miles east on Hwy. 30 to sign on the right saying Headquarters | phone=+1 662 234-6125 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-06-02 | content=This 42,274 acre wildlife refuge provides a natural habitat for many species. Game hunted are deer, dove, duck, quail, rabbit, squirrel, turkey and woodcock. }} * {{do | name=Wall Doxey State Park | alt= | url=http://www.mdwfp.com/parks-destinations/state-parks/wall-doxey/ | email=walldoxey@mdwfp.state.ms.us | address=3946 Highway 7 South, Holly Springs | lat=34.6567 | long=-89.4664 | directions=25 miles north of Oxford | phone=+1 662 252-4231 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Day use $4/vehicle and $.50 per person over 6 people | wikipedia=Wall Doxey State Park | image=Wall Doxey State Park 2017 01.jpg | wikidata=Q7962594 | lastedit=2018-07-01 | content=Offers an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities in a setting rich in natural beauty centered around a 60-acre, spring-fed lake. }} *{{do | name=The Lyric Theatre | url=http://www.thelyricoxford.com/ | email= | address=1006 Van Buren Avenue | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 662-234-5333 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Lyric Theatre opened as a silent movie theatre in 1913. After extensive renovations, the Lyric Oxford opened its doors on the Oxford Square and now provides the North Mississippi Region with a premier live music and event venue. The proximity of Oxford to Memphis, New Orleans, St. Louis, and Nashville makes it an easy stop for touring musicians and bands. }} ===Major special events=== *'''The Blues Symposium''', on the Ole Miss Campus, Contact Greg Johnson at +1 662 915-7753. Learn about Mississippi and the blues. Birthplace of the music and the artists. Admission is free. * {{do | name=The Oxford Film Festival | alt= | url=http://www.oxfordfilms.com | email=info@oxfordfilmfest.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 236-6429 | tollfree= | fax=+1 662 236-6988 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Oxford International Film Festival | wikidata=Q7115382 | content=This four-day annual film festival held in February features shorts and films by regional film makers alongside high profile independent films. }} * {{do | name=Oxford Conference for the Book | alt= | url=http://www.olemiss.edu/depts/south/ocb | email=cssc@olemiss.edu | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 915-5993 | tollfree= | fax=+1 662 915-5814 | hours= | price= | content=Contact Ann Abadie. Since its inauguration in April 1993, the conference has celebrated books, writing and reading; it has also dealt with practical concerns on which literary arts depend. Admission is free. }} * {{do | name=The Double Decker Arts Festival | alt= | url=http://www.doubledeckerfestival.com | email=tourism@oxfordms.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 234-4680 | tollfree=+1-800-758-9177 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Courthouse Square. A daylong celebration of music, food, and arts on Oxford's historic square. Mingle with painters, potters, and woodworkers. Sample entrees from Southern chefs. Enjoy an eclectic blend of music including jazz, funk, blues and rock 'n' roll. Admission is free. }} *'''The Fourth of July Celebration in Oxford''', A day-long event filled with patriotic speeches, music, food, children's activities, and an Independence Day parade. The festivities come to an end with a free concert at Oxford University Stadium featuring the Oxford Community Band, followed by a fireworks display. Skip the entertainment in the Grove beforehand, or at least picnic far from the stage. They allow everyone that thinks they have talent to perform. * {{do | name=Annual Faulkner and Yoknapatawpha Conference | alt= | url=http://www.outreach.olemiss.edu/events/faulkner | email=cssc@olemiss.edu | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 915-5993 | tollfree= | fax=+1 662 915-5814 | hours= | price= | content=Contact Ann Abadie. A popular literary event that includes six days of lectures and discussions by scholars and dramatic readings from the works of William Faulkner. Celebrate at Rowan Oak, once the home of the famous writer. }} ==Learn== The '''[http://www.olemiss.edu/ University of Mississippi]''' is a comprehensive research university and is home to a chapter of the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa. It is listed in ''The Student Guide to America's 100 Best College Buys'' and ''The Student Guide to America's Best College Scholarships''. UM ranks 50th on ''Kiplinger's Personal Finance'' magazine's list of best college buys for in-state tuition and 46th for out-of-state tuition. Also in town is a branch of '''[https://www.northwestms.edu/about/campuses/lafayette-yalobusha-oxford Northwest Mississippi Community College]'''. ==Work== By far the major employer is the '''University of Mississippi''', but other employers include '''[http://www.fncinc.com/default.aspx FNC, Inc.]{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (a banking systems and data/analytics management firm) and many local banks. Oxford is also a regional healthcare center with constantly growing healthcare facilities. A variety of jobs are may be found at the '''[http://northmiss.baptistonline.org/ Baptist Memorial Hospital - North Mississippi]'''. The free [http://www.thedmonline.com Daily Mississippian] and the daily [http://www.oxfordeagle.com/ Oxford Eagle] have updated help wanted ads. ==Buy== You will find a variety of locally-owned shops downtown where you can purchase designer clothing, custom crafted pottery by Gail Pittman and [http://www.mccartyspottery.com McCartys] of Merrigold, Mississippi, local artwork, local music albums, and a variety of other upscale wares. The shopping magazine '''[http://www.luckymag.com/ Lucky]''' features Oxford as a small town with big city shopping. Most stores will allow their customers to have charge accounts, which makes it convenient for students to send the bill home for payment. * {{buy | name=Hinton & Hinton | url= | email= | address=135 Courthouse Square (on the Square) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 662 234-0691 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= A men's store featuring designer clothing in the traditional style and outdoor gear. }} * {{buy | name=Landry's | url= | email= | address=302 South Lamar Boulevard | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 662 281-0846 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Located just off the square down from Square Books on South Lamar, Landry's is a family owned and run business that carries fine men's clothing, accessories, and has friendly service. }} * {{buy | name=Lilly Pad | alt= | url=http://www.lilypadgiftshop.com/ | email= | address=128 Courthouse Square (''on the Square'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 238-2900 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fraternity, sorority, and other personalized gifts. They also offer Yankee candles, Vera Bradley luggage, Department 56 collectibles, and trendy beaded jewelry. }} * {{buy | name=Midtown Farmer's Market | url=http://www.mtfarmersmarket.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 662 234-6447 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=May-Sep: Sa 7AM-11AM, W 2:30PM-5:30PM | price= | content= The market is on the north side of the Mid-town Shopping Center parking lot on North Lamar Boulevard. It is staffed and run by volunteers and is restricted to farmers, producers and bakers who grow or use products produced in Mississippi. }} *'''Mississippi Madness''', 141 Courthouse Square (''on the Square''), +1 662 234-5280, +1-866-234-5280. Features a variety of cooking accessories, Mississippi designer pottery, and Mississippi-made gourmet foods. Pick up some ''Knock-You-Naked'' margarita mix made by [http://www.fatmamastamales.com/ Fat Mama's Tamales] in Natchez. * {{buy | name=Mustard Seed Antique Emporium | alt= | url= | email= | address=1737 University Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 281-8004 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-5PM | price= | content= A multi-dealer mall featuring antique furnishings, collectibles, decorative accessories, vintage clothing and jewelry. Voted "Best Place To Find Antiques" in the state in the July/August 2007 issue of ''Mississippi Magazine''. }} * {{buy | name=Neilson's Department Store | url=http://neilsonsdepartmentstore.com/ | email= | address=119 Courthouse Square (''on the Square'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 662 234-1161 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Oldest continuously running department store in the South and offers the latest in every department. You'll find clothing, shoes, and accessories for the whole family, as well as home furnishings and gifts. Neilson's also carries Clinique and Estee Lauder cosmetics. Features all the typical department store items, but specializes in personal service. }} * {{buy | name=Oxford Floral Company | url=http://www.oxfordfloral.com/ | email= | address=1103 Jefferson Avenue | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 662 234-2515 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 8AM-5:30PM | price= | content=Antique furnishings and collectibles, estate silver, accessories, unusual gifts, fine china, crystal, and floral arrangements. Voted "Best Place To Find A Perfect Gift" in the July/August 2007 issue of ''Mississippi Magazine''. }} * {{buy | name=Oxford Tattoo Company | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Oxford-Tattoo-Company/126970574023369 | email= | address=1151 Frontage Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 281-8226 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 2PM-11PM | price= | content=A tattoo studio offering full custom body art located at the corner of S. Lamar Blvd. and Hwy 6. }} * {{buy | name=Rebel Rags | alt= | url= | email= | address=2302 West Jackson Avenue | lat= | long= | directions=Inside the Goose Creek Mall | phone=+1 662-234-RAGS | tollfree=+1-877-281-REBS | fax= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-7PM and Su 1PM-6PM | price= | content= Rebel Rags has a full selection of items devoted strictly to Ole Miss attire and personal items. Customers can buy anything from Ole Miss caps to jeans to t-shirts to autograph footballs to bean bags. Product lines include Tommy Hilfiger, Cutter & Buck, Adidas, Russell, Heritage Pewter, Champion, Gear, Soffee, Team Jeans, Little King and many more popular brands. }} * {{buy | name=Square Books | url=http://www.squarebooks.com | email= | address=129 Courthouse Square (on the Square) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 236-2828 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Locally-owned bookstore that has been rated as the best independent bookstore in the nation. The New Yorker described it "as good as or better than any in New York." Frequent signings by prominent authors. Look inside the cover of your favorite book, as it may be signed. They also operate '''Off Square Books''', a discount bookstore that is on the Square but in a separate building. In addition, they have a children's bookstore also located separately on the Square. }} *{{buy | name=Taylor Farmers Market | url= | email= | address=Town Square Lane, Plein Air Neighborhood | lat= | long= | directions=from Hwy. 6, take Old Taylor Road for 8 miles, follow the signs. From Hwy. 7, take Hwy. 328 about 5 miles, veer right on Cutoff Road and follow signs | phone = +1 662-832-8727 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Sa 9AM-1PM | price=free | content=8 miles from downtown Oxford, the Taylor Farmers Market is a celebration of local food, art and live music each Saturday June through October. Adjacent to the 2008 Southern Living Idea House and local shops and restaurants, the Taylor Farmers Market is fun for the entire family, with plenty of shade and green space to romp in or spread out a picnic blanket. }} *{{buy | name=The Kaleidoscope | url=https://www.instagram.com/thekaleidoscope/?hl=en | email= | address=2305 E Jackson Ave Suite 201 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 662-234-6722 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10AM-5:30PM | price= | content=Fun, funky, fashionable clothing and accessories. The only place in Oxford to find the brand Free People. }} * {{buy | name=Therapy | alt= | url= | email= | address=136 Courthouse Square (''on the Square'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 281-1197 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Fine shoes, cosmetics, apparel, and accessories. }} * {{buy | name=University Sporting Goods | alt= | url=http://www.rebelfever.com | email= | address=105 Courthouse Square (''on the Square'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 234-1736 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= The store is a must-stop for Ole Miss apparel, running shoes, and t-shirts. University Sporting Goods also does screen printing for t-shirts. }} * {{buy | name=Village Tailor | alt= | url=http://www.shopvillagetailor.com/ | email=villagetailor@bellsouth.net | address=145 Courthouse (on the Square) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 234-8217 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-5:30PM | price= | content= Designer women's clothing and accessories. }} ==Eat== For a town of only 20,000 (35,000 when school is in session), Oxford is blessed with a wide variety of dining choices. Home to the '''[https://www.southernfoodways.org/ Southern Foodways Alliance]''', Oxford has evolved into a "mecca....which draws professional food scholars as well as amateur eaters" according to Food & Wine writer, Pete Wells. '''City Grocery''' is recommended for upscale fine dining. For more casual fare, you can't go wrong with '''Boure''' or '''Ajax'''. For a true Mississippi experience, you must eat at '''Taylor Grocery'''. ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Abners Famous Chicken Tenders | alt=2 blocks from the Square | url=http://www.abnerschicken.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great chicken tenders. Wall-to-wall sports memorabilia. Great sweet tea. It has now developed into a small chain with locations throughout Mississippi and the Memphis area. This is the original Abners and was started by former Ole Miss football player, Abner White. Great for a quick lunch. }} *'''Bottle Tree Bakery''' A quaint coffee and pastry shop in the morning. A sandwich place in the afternoon. Known throughout town for their wonderful breads, muffins and pastries. Has been featured on the Food Network and Oprah, who loves their apple pie. * {{eat | name=B's Hickory Smoked Bar-B-Q | alt= | url= | email= | address=825 College Hill Road | lat= | long= | directions=Sky Mart | phone =+1 662 236-1562 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 9AM-10PM | price= | content= Smoked tenderloin, chicken, Cornish hens, quail, ribs, pork tenderloin, beef brisket, hot wings, sides. Great place to pick up some barbeque for tailgating before football or baseball games, though you'll need to place any large order ahead of time. Although it's inside the BP gas station, don't let that fool you. It's some of the finest barbeque around. Any leftover 'Q is sold at a deep discount late at night. }} * {{eat | name=Handy Andy | alt= | url= | email= | address=800 North Lamar Boulevard | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 234-4621 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 6:30AM-8:30PM, Sa 7AM-8:30PM | price= | content= Specializing in great BBQ, sandwiches, ribs, and salads. Don't miss the peach and apple fried pies! One of the most popular spots in town. The crowd comes not for the atmosphere, which is definitely no-frills, but for the great food at cheap prices. Try the steak sandwich, but you can't go wrong with the great barbeque (still hickory smoked when most famous Memphis places have switched to gas smokers) or the hamburgers made they way they were 50 years ago. The banana pudding is some of the best you'll ever eat, and you can't beat the price at 97 cents per serving. }} * {{eat | name=McAlister's Deli | alt= | url=http://www.mcalistersdeli.com | email= | address=1515 University Avenue | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 234-1363 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great soup and sandwich shop. While it has now grown into a corporation with locations in 18 states and growing, Oxford is home to the original McAllister's Deli, still located in an old, converted gas station on University Avenue. Scenes in the movie ''Heart of Dixie'' were filmed here. Everything on the menu is good, but the sweet tea made them famous. Sandwiches and other fare less than $10. }} * {{eat | name=Newks Express Cafe | alt= | url=http://www.newkscafe.com | email= | address=1309 University Avenue | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 513-5303 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The atmosphere is very upscale and hip. Exceptional menu including soups, salads, pizza, and toasted sandwiches. Owned by the same family that opened the very first McAllister's Deli. }} * {{eat | name=Pizza Den | alt= | url= | email= | address=499 Heritage Drive | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 234-5537 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 11AM-11PM, Sa Su noon-11PM | price= | content= Pizza Den has moved to a new location and has the same menu used by Pizza Bob to make this a favorite eating establishment among generations of Ole Miss students and Oxford residents. The restaurant is operated by Pizza Bob's five children and the same equipment used at the old location is being implemented at the new location. Menu items include pizza, spaghetti, and sandwiches. The sandwiches are out-of-this-world good, and the stromboli is a local favorite. The wait for your food is notoriously long, even when they don't appear to be busy. }} * {{eat | name=Heartbreak Coffee| alt= | url=http://www.heartbreakcoffeeroasters.com/ | email= | address=265 North Lamar Boulevard | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 513-0905 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Located right off the Square, Uptown is a perfect place to meet up with friends to have a cup of joe and hang out. High Speed Internet available. }} *'''Tienda Y Taqueria''', University Ave. (''behind Oby's''). Super-authentic, fresh Mexican cuisine at rock bottom prices. Mexican food that Mexicans eat. ===Mid-range=== *'''Ajax Diner''', 118 Courthouse Square (''on the square''), +1 662 232-8880. Soul Food with a little spice in a funky atmosphere. Mattie's Mom's Meatloaf is a local favorite. Fried Oyster Poboy is highly recommended. Excellent chicken and dumplins as well as veggie plates and fried pickles. Was a favorite lunch spot for Eli Manning in his college days. Voted Oxford's best "plate lunch", "lunch", and "casual dining". Entrees $8-15. Reservations not accepted. * {{eat | name=BBB (Big Bad Breakfast) | alt= | url= | email= | address=719 North Lamar Boulevard | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 236-2666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The best breakfast in town, a great, truly Southern joint serving on-site smoked breakfast meats, local eggs and cheese, fresh made jellies and jams, and locally ground grits. Try the Big Bad Breakfast plate or enjoy one of the other Southern literary-named dishes. Open for breakfast and lunch. Reservations not accepted. }} * {{eat | name=Boure | alt= | url=https://citygroceryonline.com/restaurants/boure/ | email= | address=110 Courthouse Square | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 234-1968 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A moderately-priced offshoot of City Grocery, featuring contemporary and traditional items. Try the French Dip. Entrees $10-20. }} * {{eat | name=Proud Larry's | alt= | url=http://www.proudlarrys.com/ | email= | address=211 South Lamar Boulevard | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 236-0050 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 11AM-10PM | price= | content=Downtown. Hand-tossed pizza, grill food, pasta specials, salads. When you step into Proud Larry's, you know instantly by the look of the building and the aroma of fresh bread that you have really found a unique place to dine. You can't beat their hand tossed pizza (the Mediterranean is exceptionally good), pasta dishes, salads, and burgers. Their spinach and artichoke dip is a must before every meal! By day, "Larry's" is a great place for a hot meal. By night, it becomes a true Oxford hotspot featuring great live music, including local and regional bands - such as North Mississippi All-Stars - as well as occasional surprises such as Elvis Costello. }} * {{eat | name=Taylor Grocery | alt=Taylor Grocery | url=http://www.taylorgrocery.com | email=forrest@taylorgrocery.com | address=4 County Road 338, Taylor | lat= | long= | directions=8 miles south of Oxford | phone = +1 662 236-6363 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= This may well be ''the'' best catfish place in the world. Rustic atmosphere in a historic former grocery in the arts community of Taylor, about 10 minutes south of Oxford. Menu includes steaks, pork, and chicken, but well known for its fried catfish. Live bluegrass and blues. Brown Bag (bring your own alcohol) is a must. Be prepared to wait for at least 30 minutes to an hour, but it's well worth it. Locals bring their own drinks and tailgate outside on the front porch. An art gallery is close by, as well as sculptor's and potter's shops, which you can browse while waiting for your table. Down the road is Taylor Creek Farm, where you can find fresh flowers, herbs and eggs, and they welcome folks to tour the gardens during the summer. Just steps away ''Big Truck Theater'' hosts Mississippi-rooted music, and they will notify you when your table at Taylor is ready. You are encouraged to brown bag there as well. It is customary to sign the Taylor Grocery guest book as well as the walls, so bring your Sharpie. Such notable signatures on the walls of Taylor Grocery include Archie, Eli, and Peyton Manning, Deuce McAllister, Barbara Walters, Jimmy Buffet, Elvis (though no confirmation on authenticity), and a number of literary greats. Head south on Old Taylor Road for about 8 miles. When you think you are lost, the road will end, and you'll see the place. Featured in ''Southern Living'' and many other publications. Open Th-Su from 5PM until they decide to close. No reservations, and they frequently quit taking names by 7PM on the Friday of football weekends. }} ===Splurge=== *'''City Grocery''', 152 Courthouse Square (''on the square''), +1 662 232-8080. Upscale dining in the New Orleans tradition. Good wine list. Famous for their "shrimp & grits." Probably the most well-known restaurant in Oxford. Chef John Currence was nominated for the prestigious James Beard award, the highest national award a chef can receive. Entrees $20-30. Reservations not available home football weekends, seat upon arrival. ==Drink== Cold beer is not sold in Oxford, except for bars and restaurants. Either purchase your cold beer at the county line on Hwy 6 or Hwy 7 as you are coming into town, or ice it down. An often told myth is that Oxford does not sell beer cold because the mayor once owned the local icehouse. Open containers are also not allowed in the city limits, but as long as you pour it in a cup, you are fine. If a cop sees a beer can or liquor bottle, he will pour out all of your supply. However, if you have it in a cup, you will not be bothered unless you are extremely unruly. This especially applies to the Ole Miss campus and The Grove. Just '''keep it in a cup''' and pour discreetly. Due to antiquated Southern laws, the Ole Miss campus is wet on liquor only (no beer allowed), except east of Gertrude Ford Boulevard (the old railroad bed), where both liquor and beer are allowed. In any case, alcohol is not allowed in plain view and must be kept in a cup. Remember, ''bars in Oxford close early''. Monday-Wednesday they close at midnight. Thursday and Friday they close at 1AM. They close at midnight on Saturdays except on game weekends, when they are open till 1AM. Still, most bar goers don't go home and go to bed but instead head to the infamous "late-nights," parties at someone's home or apartment. Despite police efforts to crack down on '''late-nights''', they are still going strong, sometimes numbering into the thousands of partiers. Word spreads about the location of late-nights earlier in the night at the bars. Be sure to secure your beer or liquor for the late-night before you go out, because they will have stopped selling by the time the bars have closed (midnight most days, Sunday it's a "dry" city). The Chevron at University and South Lamar, called '''"Chicken-on-a-Stick"''' because of the drunk food it serves by the same name, is a very popular stopping point between the bars and the late-nights and has achieved legendary status. Several other convenience stores carry the same food minus the tradition. If you are too drunk to drive and have no other way home, you can almost always find a ride at Chicken-on-a-Stick (the Chevron) just after the bars close. '''The City Grocery Bar''', or "The Grocery," is located above its namesake restaurant and tends to attract a mix between locals, writers, lawyers, and older college students. One place to hear live music is '''Proud Larry's''', where local and regional artists perform frequently. *'''The Library Sports Bar''', known as the "Sports Bar", is an addition to the Library Bar & Grill and fills the void of a true sports bar on the Oxford Square. At the corner of 11th Street and Van Buren - just down from the original Library Bar & Grill. The Library attracts a younger crowd as it is 18-and-up.120 South 11th Street, +1 662 234-1411. It features talented local bands and entertainment at night. During the day, you can stop by and say hi to Johnny "D" to have lunch and a drink. ==Sleep== While Oxford has no luxury hotels yet, two boutique hotels are under construction just off the Square. One, (The Ava, under construction just off the Square on Jackson Ave., next to the pedestrian/bike bridge) will feature a spa and fine dining. Until they are built, the closest you will get to luxury is to stay at a bed and breakfast. Oxford has a large number of hotel rooms for a town of its size. However, if you are coming for a game weekend, nearly all the rooms are presold as a package deal for the season. Occasional rooms do open up though, but chances are slim. The next closest town with motels is Bruce (24 miles) Batesville (25 miles) to the west, Holly Springs (30 miles) to the north, Pontotoc (20 miles) to the east, Grenada (40 miles) to the south, and Senatobia (40 miles) to the northeast. Many visitors choose to stay in downtown Memphis in order to experience Beale Street and only come in for the game, or they stay in Tunica at a casino. However, it can be ''very'' difficult to get in, out, or around Oxford on Game Day. A viable option is to rent an RV in Memphis and stay on campus for free. You can park your RV and walk wherever you need to go the whole weekend. If you are staying in Oxford, the '''Graduate Hotel''' and the '''Inn at Ole Miss''' are the most highly recommended because of the quality of the rooms, the services, and the great locations. ===Bed & Breakfast=== * {{sleep | name=Cart Barn Inn @ Yoda Creek | alt= | url=http://www.cartbarninn.com/ | email=Kay@cartbarninn.com | address=07 CR 256, Bruce | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662-983-7829 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A luxury inn 20 minutes south of Oxford in Bruce on the Yoda Creek Golf Club property. Amenities include hot Southern breakfast, luxurious spacious bedrooms with private bath, flat screen satellite TV, high speed internet, plush linens, mini fridge, microwave, bottled water, large porch w/grill and firepits, swings, table and chairs, courtyard and gazebo overlooking Yoda Creek Golf Course, swimming pool. }} * {{sleep | name=The Nests BnB and Events | alt= | url=https://www.thenestsoxford.com/ | email=reservations@emptynestoxford.com | address=81 County Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 662-801-9369 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Close to Oxford, is a quaint cottage in the country. Horses, porches,shade trees, and peace & quiet abound on the quintessential country lane known as Camp Hopewell Road. Accommodations include two bedrooms, 1 Bath with a private entrance and a pool. Just 7 miles from downtown Oxford, the Empty Nest is about a 10 minute drive from the Oxford Square. }} * {{sleep | name=Puddin' Place | alt= | url= | email= | address=1008 University Avenue | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 234-1250 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=This historic home features antiques and interesting mementos. They offer two rooms and serve a gourmet breakfast. Walking distance to the Square and Campus. }} ===Cabins & cottages=== * {{sleep | name=Hightower Properties of Oxford, LLC | alt= | url=https://kayhightower.com/ | email= | address=307 Jackson Ave W Ste. 6 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662-883-0068 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A variety of condos, townhouses, and private residences for short-term (2 days to 2 months) rentals. Football and other special event weekends, plus many available year-round. }} * {{sleep | name=John W. Kyle State Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=4235 State Park Road, Sardis | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 662 487-1345 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=20 air-conditioned cabins, furnished with basic kitchen equipment and bed and bath linens. All of the cabins are located near the water, have fire places and accommodate up to four people. Additionally, 2 cabins are located on the [http://www.mallardpointegc.com/view.asp?id=277&page=5563 Mallard Pointe Golf Course] {{dead link|December 2020}}. Each of these cabins consist of 4 bedrooms and equipped much the same as the other cabins. Reservations are required. }} * {{sleep | name=Wall Doxey State Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=3946 Highway 7 South, Holly Springs, MS | lat= | long= | directions=25 miles north of Oxford | phone=+1 662 252-4231 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Features nine air-conditioned cabins offering forest or lake views. Accommodating four to seven persons, cabins are equipped with bed and bath linens and feature screened porches and fireplaces. Reservations are strongly recommended. }} ===Motels and hotels=== * {{sleep | name=Comfort Inn Oxford | url=http://www.comfortinn.com/hotel-oxford-mississippi-MS002 | email= | address=1808 Jackson Ave W | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 234-6000 | tollfree= | fax=+1 662 281-0101 | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=This hotel offers 49 rooms with one king or two queen sized beds. The one-room suites are equipped with hair dryers, coffee units, sofa beds, a large desk, and a seating area. A spacious executive suite offers an in-room jacuzzi. All rooms include microwaves, refrigerators, irons and ironing boards, and data port telephones. }} * {{sleep | name=Graduate Hotel | url=https://www.graduatehotels.com/oxford/ | email= | address=400 N Lamar Blvd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 234-3031 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Located within walking distance of the Courthouse Square. The hotel is equipped with a restaurant, lounge, meeting facility, and outdoor pool. It is one of the best moderately-priced places to stay because of its great location. Consider this and the ''Inn at Ole Miss'' first. }} * {{sleep | name=Hampton Inn | url=http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=OXDMSHX | email= | address=110 Heritage Dr | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 232-2442 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Clean fresh comfortable rooms standard with coffee maker, iron and ironing board, data port and complimentary in-room movie channel. Enjoy complimentary local calls and no surcharge for using a calling card. Guests also enjoy the following complimentary items: hot breakfast or takeout breakfast bags (M-F), high speed internet access in every room, Wi-Fi in the lobby, meeting rooms and public areas, coffee and tea in the lobby 24 hours a day, and ''USA Today'' copies M-F. Hampton also offers a 24-hour front desk, message and fax service. One of the newest and nicest moderately-priced hotels. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites | url=http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/redirect?&path=hd&brandCode=ex&hotelCode=OXFMS&_IATAno=99601994 | email= | address=112 Heritage Dr | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 236-2500 | tollfree=+1-866 270-5110 | fax=+1 662 236-7987 | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Hotel offers 67 rooms including 34 suites. A deluxe continental breakfast, guest laundry, and a fitness center available. Rooms include 2 two-line telephones, voice mail, data ports, coffee maker, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, work desk, and ceiling fan. The suites also include microwaves, refrigerators, wet bar, and sleeper sofa. A newer hotel and one of the better in Oxford. }} * {{sleep | name=Inn at Ole Miss | url=http://www.theinnatolemiss.com | email= | address=Alumni Dr | lat= | long= | directions=Ole Miss Campus | phone=+1 662 234-2331 | tollfree=+1-888-486-7666 | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=The Inn at Ole Miss is on the Ole Miss campus right across from the beautiful Ole Miss Grove. 91 rooms and two suites are available. A free continental breakfast, outdoor pool, and conference facilities are offered. A new all-suite tower is under construction. If you can get a room here, this is the best place to stay in town because of the value and location. }} * {{sleep | name=Ole Miss Motel | url= | email= | address=1517 University Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 234-2424 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=If you are having an affair, this would be the place to meet your mistress. In fact, this motel was featured in the early 1990s comedy flick ''The Gun in Betty Lou's Handbag'' as the scene of an affair and murder. Despite its limited services, it has a good location close to the Square and offers the nostalgia of a Route 66 motor inn. However, word may spread in church that your vehicle was seen in the parking lot, causing severe damage to your reputation. }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 Motel | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/oxford-mississippi/super-8-oxford-ms/overview | email= | address=2201 Jackson Ave W | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 234-7013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=114-room hotel on Jackson Ave. close to Wal-Mart. Guest rooms and amenities include clock/radio, coffeemaker, iron and ironing board, hairdryer, and 25 inch television with Direct TV, free local calls, super start breakfast. Jacuzzi rooms, Executive 2-room suites, and microwaves/refrigerators available. }} ==Stay safe== Oxford is a very safe town, with the court dockets mostly full of minors-in-possession, public drunks, and DUIs. Oxford Police are always nearby and allow little slack for disruptive behavior. The town is safe to walk at any time of night, with only the most basic precautions necessary. ==Cope== ===Game Day=== [[File:Ole Miss vs Auburn.JPG|thumb|Homecoming 2012 - Ole Miss vs. Auburn]] Oxford is very crowded on football game days. Football is a religion here, and fall Saturdays are the sabbath. Therefore, expect heavy traffic, hotels that fill months in advance, and no available reservations at restaurants. The Grove opens for tailgating at 6PM Friday night, but the crowds can overwhelm security as early as 4PM Friday night, and all the good spots in the Grove will be gone by 8PM. Most tailgating is concentrated in the Grove, but it takes place everywhere on campus. The Circle, next to the Grove, has more of a family atmosphere. Officially, liquor but not beer is allowed in the Grove, but all alcohol must be kept in a cup and out of plain view. [[File:OleMissvsTexas.JPG|thumb|The Grove - Ole Miss vs. Texas - 9/15/2012]] *'''[https://olemissgameday.com/football-alcohol-policies.html Alcohol Policy]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. The university policy on alcohol is very complicated and enforcement of it is even more so. Liquor is legal on all the campus and beer on the part of campus east of Gertrude Ford Boulevard. However, all alcohol must remain out of plain view at all times. Keep it in a cup or in your cooler. While beer is illegal in the Grove, the police will not confiscate it if you keep it in a cup. Police are allowed to search unattended coolers, so keep it at a tent that is attended at all times or put a lock on it. Bottom line: keep your alcohol out of plain view and under your control, keep your behavior in check, and you won't be bothered by the police. And don't even think about drinking and driving. *'''Vaught-Hemingway Stadium''' Where the three-time national champion Ole Miss Rebels play football. For online ticket sales and a seating chart, visit the [http://www.olemisssports.com/tickets/ Ole Miss Ticket Office]. The stadium is officially alcohol-free, but many fans sneak in a flask, and drinking in the club levels and suites is completely ignored. Expect extensive body searches at the visitor and student gates. If you enjoy being molested by a security guard of the same sex, you're in heaven. At the other gates, security generally just looks inside purses and bags. *'''[https://olemissgameday.com/ Game Day Info]''' from the University. Including tailgating and stadium rules, traffic info, and parking info. *'''RV information'''. The university provides free gravel RV lots at the Old Taylor Road and the Coliseum Drive exits off of the Hwy 6 bypass. Overflow RV parking is available at the intramural fields, accessed by the Coliseum Drive exit (turn left at the four-way stop). Paved lots with hookups including cable TV are available, but they must be purchased for the whole season. The University officially does not allow RV parking before Friday afternoon, but in reality, they allow parking in the gravel lots days in advance. People are known to never move their RVs from one Saturday to the next. A private RV park with full amenities is available in town. Many choose to stay at the more spacious and scenic [http://sardis.uslakes.info/ Sardis Lake], which offers a plethora of cheap RV parking with full hookups in a tree-shaded environment. It is located between Oxford and Batesville, 15 to 20 minutes from town. *'''RV information'''. [http://www.cartbarninn.com Cart Barn Inn] @ Yoda Creek has Rv parking. kay@cartbarninn.com {{phone|+1 662-983-7829}}, 20 minutes south of Oxford down hwy 7 to hwy 9w to Bruce. === Churches === If your weekend visit to Oxford necessitates a visit with the Deity, there are many local worship options. Some of these houses of worship have enough historic value to warrant a purely secular visit any day of the week. True to its Deep South locale, Oxford is replete with Baptist and Methodist churches, but other faiths are by no means left out in this cosmopolitan university town. Here is a very small sampling of Oxford's larger and historic religious buildings and bodies: ====Baptist==== * {{listing | name=Antioch Primitive Baptist Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=South 15th Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sunday services are at 10:30AM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=This congretation was organized in 1836. The congregation has been meeting in the current building since 1949. }} * {{listing | name=First Baptist Church | alt=SBC | url=http://www.gotofirst.org/ | email= | address=800 Van Buren Avenue | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 234-3515 | tollfree= | hours=Sunday services are at 8:30AM, 9:45AM and 11AM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=The congregation was founded in 1842 and the original church structure was burned by Union troops in 1864. Current site was obtained in 1881 and the current building was completed in 1952. }} * {{listing | name=Second Baptist Church | alt=MBC | url= | email= | address=611 Jackson Avenue | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 662 234-7868 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=It was organized by former slaves in 1869. The roots of this faith community stretch back to Baptist and Methodist ex-slaves who built a brush arbor on the edge of the old Pegues Plantation near the current church structure immediately after emancipation. }} ====Catholic==== *'''St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church''' '''(Roman Catholic)''', 403 University Avenue, {{phone|+1 662 234-6073}}. Catholic presence in Oxford dates back to antebellum times when small numbers of Catholic residents and students at the University relied on visiting priests for spiritual sustenance. St. John's was founded in the 1930s as a mission of Water Valley's St. Patrick's parish. The original church building (a simple neo-classical structure constructed in 1943) and its adjoining rectory/parish hall, played host to federal troops sent to quell the riots surrounding the integration of the University in 1962. These buildings were later declared structurally unsound and were razed in 2003 for the construction of a new church building on the same property. Masses are celebrated on Sundays at 8:30AM, 11AM and 5PM. ====Episcopal==== *'''St. Peter's Episcopal Church''' '''(ECUS)''', 113 South 9th Street, {{phone|+1 662 234-1269-}}. Organized in 1851, this was the original seat of the first Episcopal bishop of Mississippi, making this building the pro-cathedral (i.e. preliminary cathedral) for the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi. First resident pastor was Frederick A.P. Barnard, originally a faculty member at Ole Miss, eventually the university's chancellor and, later, president of Columbia University. The building was completed in 1860 and was the only religious structure within the town limits of Oxford to survive the burning of the town by Union troops in 1864. William Faulkner was a parishioner. Sunday services are at 7:45AM, 9AM, 11AM and 5:30PM. There is a Spanish language service at 7PM. ====Methodist==== *'''Old Burns Church/Belfry Building''', Original Building - West Jackson Avenue. Oxford's first African-American church, organized by former slaves in 1869 as Sewell Chapel, it was renamed Burns Methodist-Episcopal Church in 1900. An original wood frame structure was replaced in 1910 by the current brick building. The current congregation moved to a modern structure in 1973 on the corner of Molly Barr Road and Washington Avenue. After the congregation moved out, the 1910 building served for a time as an office for author John Grisham. Grisham donated the building for use as a Civil Rights museum. The congregation's current church building is located at 600 Molly Barr Road. Sunday worship service is at 11AM. *'''Oxford-University Methodist Church (UMC)''', University Avenue, {{phone|+1 662 234-5278}}. Founded in 1836 as Oxford Methodist-Episcopal Church, the congregation was served by a circuit-riding minister who made regular stops in Oxford for services. The church's first building was on Van Buren Avenue and the congregation went through two more structures on Jackson Avenue before purchasing the current site in 1936. Services began at the current site in 1937 and the current brick sanctuary was completed in 1950. Famous parishioners have included Charles B. Galloway and L.Q.C. Lamar. ====Presbyterian==== *'''College Hill Presbyterian Church (PCA)''', College Hill Road, {{phone|+1 662 234-5020}}. The church was founded in 1835. The building, built using slave labor and bricks fired on the grounds, was completed in 1846. It is the oldest church building in the Oxford area. During the Civil War, the surrounding community of College Hill was invaded by Union General Sherman and his troops in 1862, who occupied the grounds of the church and used the church building for sleeping quarters. William Faulkner was married here in 1929. The original structure and furnishings remain remarkably unchanged. The pulpit, pews and pew gates are original to the structure. The only major structural changes to the original structure were: 1) the addition of a veneer of modern brick which covers the structure's original exterior bricks (though the original brickwork is still viewable at a view points on the east side of the church exterior where some of the modern bricks were purposefully left un-mortared and can be temporarily removed to "peek" at the original bricks beneath), 2) the modern addition of office space in the rear of the structure, and 3) the removal of the building's slave galley (a balcony reserved for slaves to sit in during church services). The exterior doors which once led to the galley, however, still remain, floating ominously above the main entrance to the church, sans stairs. *'''First Presbyterian Church (PCUSA)''', 924 Van Buren Avenue, {{phone|+1 662 234-1757}. The first Presbyterian congregation in the town of Oxford was organized in 1837 by early settlers of Scottish descent. The church's original 1847 wood frame building fell casualty to the flames of 1864 (when the courthouse, its square and other buildings and homes in town were burned by federal troops). The current building was built in 1881. Sunday worship services are at 8:30AM and 11AM. ====Unitarian-Universalist==== *'''Unitarian-Universalist Congregation of Oxford,''' 31 County Road 198, {{phone|+1 662 513-0970}}. An intergenerational community that fosters spiritual growth through free thought and respect for personal beliefs. Visitors of all faiths and beliefs are welcome. Services are Sundays at 11AM, and children of all ages are welcome with childcare provided during the service (from 10:50AM -12:15PM.) ====Mormon==== *'''Oxford Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,''' 3501 S Lamar Blvd, Worship service at 10AM. Visitors are welcome. ==Go next== * '''[[Memphis]]'''-- The closest major city, known for Graceland, Beale Street, great music, and a revitalized downtown * '''[[Tunica]]'''-- The South's gambling mecca featuring a dozen large casino resorts * '''[[Tupelo]]'''--The birthplace of Elvis Presley * '''[[Clarksdale]]'''--The location of the famous Crossroads intersection of Highway 61 and 49 is known for its Delta blues and famous blues musicians * '''[[Natchez]]'''--The historic rivertown with the South's grandest collection of antebellum homes {{routebox | image1=US 278.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Greenville (Mississippi)|Greenville]] | minorl1=[[Batesville (Mississippi)|Batesville]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Tupelo]] | minorr1=[[Pontotoc]] }} {{Guidecity}} {{isPartOf|Mississippi Hills}} {{geo|34.3668|-89.5186|zoom=13}} gwab5d6o056uh67a4vlmx7etv1a6tpn 0 26533 5090884 5077754 2025-07-10T14:53:52Z RobertLundemo 2282489 /* Connect */ checked updated coverage maps 5090884 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner | Palanga banner beach.jpg}} '''[http://palangatic.lt/en/ Palanga]''' is a seaside resort in the [[Samogitia]] region of Lithuania. It includes a string of smaller resorts from the edge of Klaipėda city to the border with Latvia and the regional airport; in 2023 it had a population of 18,132. == Understand == Lithuania as it emerged from the First World War was landlocked: Klaipėda on the Baltic was the German port of Memel, while points north belonged to Latvia. Lithuania then annexed Klaipėda and exchanged territory with Latvia to acquire a coastline. Palanga lacked a harbour - its unusual L-shaped pier was constructed to compensate, but there was no shelter from wind, waves and ice, and the town was altogether better suited to be a summer beach resort. Its visitors are almost all domestic tourists and few foreigners come here. {{marker | name=[https://www.visit-palanga.lt/ Palangos turizmo informacijos centras] | type=listing | lat=55.9180 | long=21.0673 }} is the tourist office, at Vytauto g 94, corner with Kretingas g. It's open M-F 08:00-18:00, Sa Su 10:00-16:00. == Get in == {{mapframe | 55.910 | 21.060 | height=600 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} {{go | name=Palanga International Airport | alt={{IATA|PLQ}} | url=https://www.palanga-airport.lt/en/ | email= | address=Liepojos pl. | lat=55.9733 | long=21.0939 | directions= | phone=+370 612 44442 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Palanga International Airport | wikidata=Q1332588 | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=This has limited seasonal destinations, which include London Stansted and Dublin by Ryanair, Oslo by Norwegian, Riga by Air Baltic, and Copenhagen by Scandinavian. The airport has the usual facilities including car rental. }} Palanga is the closest airport to [[Klaipėda]] 36 km south so many arrivals are heading there. Bus 31 runs from the airport to Palanga town and Klaipėda bus & railway station every 30 min. Vlasava, Kautra and Toks buses run hourly from Vilnius and Kaunas to Klaipėda, where some continue north to Palanga town, the airport and Šventoji. Buses between Klaipėda and Riga rush past on A13 and don't stop at Palanga town or airport. For timetables and fares see [https://www.autobusubilietai.lt/en/ Autobusubilieta]. {{marker | name=Palangos autobusų stotis | type=go | lat=55.9136 | long=21.0781 }} the bus station is fairly clean and modern. By car from Kaunas follow A1 west then take the coast highway A13. == Get around == Taxi operators are [https://palangostaksi.business.site/ Palangos Taksi]{{Dead link|date=June 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (+370 460 48000) and [https://taxipalanga.lt/ Taksi Palangoje]{{Dead link|date=December 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (+370 644 44033). == See == * {{marker | name=Palanga Pier | type=see | lat=55.9203 | long=21.0453 }} is L-shaped, built in 1882 to export bricks but soon becoming a leisure spot, especially towards sunset. It has repeatedly been wrecked by storms and ice floes. The last major reconstruction in 1998 extended it to the present length of 420 m. The pier is free to stroll 24 hours. * '''Basanavicius gatvė''' is the spine of Palanga - many Lithuanian towns have a street named for Jonas Basanavičius (1851-1927), leader of the revival of national identity. This one stretches from the pier inland for almost 1 km to Vytauto gatvė. It's a pedestrian mall lined with bars, restaurants, nightclubs, funfairs and souvenir shops. * '''Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary''' (''Švč Mergelės Marijos ėmimo į dangų bažnyčia'') is a sturdy redbrick building at Vytauto g 51 opposite the tourist office * {{see | name=Resort Museum | alt=Palangos kurorto muziejus | url=https://kurortomuziejus.lt/ | email= | address=Birutės al 34A | lat=55.9182 | long=21.0558 | directions= | phone=+370 460 30576 | tollfree= | hours=W-Su 10:00-19:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=This displays the town history in an attractive old villa. }} * {{see | name=A. Mončys House-Museum | alt= | url=https://www.antanasmoncys.com/ | email= | address=S Daukanto g 16 | lat=55.9139 | long=21.0591 | directions= | phone=+370 460 49367 | tollfree= | hours=W-Su 11:00-17:00 | price=Adult €3 | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=Permanent collection of sculpture by Antanas Mončys (1921-1993), and changing exhibitions of other artists' work. }} * {{see | name=Amber Museum | alt=Palangos gintaro muziejus | url=https://www.lndm.lt/pgm/ | email= | address=Vytauto g 17 | lat=55.9069 | long=21.0558 | directions=within Botanic Gardens | phone=+370 460 51319 | tollfree= | hours=Jul Aug Tu-Sa 10:00-20:00, Su 10:00-19:00; Sept-Jun Tu-Sa 11:00-17:00, Su 11:00-16:00 | price=Adult €8, conc or child €4 | wikipedia=Palanga Amber Museum | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=This is housed in Tiškevičiai Palace, an 1890s neoclassical mansion. The museum describes the formation of amber and has 15 rooms of exhibits, including the stonking great Sun Stone of 3.5 kg. }} * '''[https://www.botanikosparkas.lt/Parko/Veiklos_sritys.html Botanical Garden]''' is a woodland park surrounding the Amber Museum, open 10:00-dusk. Birute Hill is a forested sand dune, where excavations revealed prehistoric settlements, and now embellished by a little chapel. Dogs are allowed in the park. == Do == [[File:Palangos tiltas by Augustas Didzgalvis.jpg | thumb | 300px | The L-shaped pier ]] * '''The beach''' is sandy and stretches either side of the pier for many km - south to the lagoon outlet at Klaipėda, north to the small resort of Šventoji. The central strip is congested at the height of summer; the further away you go, the quieter it gets. * '''[https://www.facebook.com/ILovePalanga I love Palanga]''' is a live music venue, where Jūratės g ends at the shore 500 m north of Basanavičius g. * '''[https://www.palangosks.lt/ Palanga Concert Hall]''' is at Vytauto g 43, 200 m south of Church of the Assumption. * '''Palanga Seals''' (''ruonių'') is a mass swim in the icy Baltic in February, while those ashore gobble down fish. * '''[https://racing.lt/en Aurum 1006 km]''' is an on-road motor race in several categories held over 3 days in July. == Buy == * Maxima is a big supermarket by the bus station, with another branch at Plytų g 9a. Rimi is by the concert hall. * Amber is the local specialty, with pieces in all price brackets. == Eat == [[File:Church of Saint Marie Interior 1, Palanga, Lithuania - Diliff.jpg | thumb | 300px | Church of the Assumption ]] * Basanavičius g is lined with cheap and cheerful places. == Drink == * {{drink | name=Dr Who | alt= | url=http://www.drwho.lt/ | email= | address=J Basanavičiaus g 9 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+370 683 07103 | tollfree= | hours=Sa-Th 11:00-17:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-06-03 | content=Dance, disco, funk music. Very cramped and can get rough. }} == Sleep == : Many householders in Palanga offer rooms at cheap rates, look for their signs ''"nuomojami kambariai"''. === Budget === * {{sleep | name=7Sakalai | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sakalo g 14 | lat=55.9510 | long=21.0732 | directions= | phone=+370 657 92555 | tollfree= | price=B&B double €65 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=Simple guesthouse near the beach. }} * {{sleep | name=Grand Baltic Dunes | alt= | url=https://www.grandbalticdunes.com/ | email= | address=Birutės al 26 | lat=55.9192 | long=21.0584 | directions= | phone=+370 615 22255 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €65 | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=Clean friendly hotel, pity about the breakfasts. }} * {{sleep | name=Vyturys | alt= | url=https://vyturyspalanga.lt/ | email=info@vyturyshotel.lt | address=S Dariaus ir S Girėno g 20 | lat=55.9076 | long=21.0689 | directions= | phone=+370 460 49147 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €50 | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=Basic old hotel. }} * '''Alka''' at S Daukanto g 21 is holiday apartments on the fourth floor of the former Alka Hotel, which has otherwise closed. === Mid-range === * '''P7 Hotel''' at Plytų g 7 is the former Gamata. * {{sleep | name=Dailė | alt= | url=https://palangosdaile.lt/ | email=palangos@palangosdaile.lt | address=S Daukanto g 33 | lat= | long= | directions=50 m north of Vetra | phone=+370 460 53887 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=Basic but clean comfy place. }} * {{sleep | name=Baltic Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=S Daukanto g 10A | lat=55.9156 | long=21.0606 | directions= | phone=+370 698 29020 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €85 | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=Efficient clean hotel near Botanic Garden. }} === Splurge === [[File:Tiškevičiai Palace at dusk, Palanga, Lithuania - Diliff.jpg | thumb | 300px | Tiškevičiai Palace houses the Amber Museum ]] * {{sleep | name=Palanga Spa | alt= | url=https://palangahotel.lt/ | email=info@palangahotel.lt | address=Birutės al 60 | lat=55.9135 | long=21.0552 | directions= | phone=+370 460 41414 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €350 | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=Swish place in a bosky setting with spa and good dining. }} * {{sleep | name=Vetra | alt= | url=https://www.palangosvetra.lt/en/ | email=hotel@palangosvetra.lt | address=Daukanto g 35 | lat=55.9119 | long=21.0590 | directions=off S Dariaus ir S Gireno g | phone=+370 460 53032 | tollfree= | price=B&B double €80 | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=Pleasant hotel in a quiet location. }} * {{sleep | name=Gabija | alt= | url=https://www.gabija.lt/en | email=info@gabija.lt | address=Vytauto g 40 | lat=55.9102 | long=21.0629 | directions=corner of S Dariaus ir S Gireno g | phone=+370 699 95973 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €75 | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=Small spa hotel east of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Auska | alt= | url=https://apartamentaiauska.lt/ | email= | address=Vytauto g 11 | lat=55.8967 | long=21.0541 | directions= | phone=+370 614 69157 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €90 | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=Old Soviet pile in the woods south of town. This could be a heritage gem if they spent money on it. }} * {{sleep | name=Vanagupė | alt= | url=https://vanagupe.lt/en/ | email=reservation@vanagupe.lt | address=Vanagupės g 31 | lat=55.9402 | long=21.0770 | directions= | phone=+370 460 41199 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €140 | lastedit=2023-07-14 | content=Good edge of town spa hotel, but the restaurant is disappointing. }} == Connect == Palanga and its approach highways have 4G from all Lithuanian carriers. As of July 2025, carriers also have partial 5G coverage of this area. == Go next == * [[Klaipėda]] is a modern city but has an old quarter around its 13th century castle. * [[Curonian Spit]], a short ferry ride from Klaipėda, is a remarkable 99 km line of sand dunes enclosing a lagoon. * [[Liepaja]] is a large port north across the border in Lithuania. {{geo|55.9167|21.0667}} {{isPartOf|Samogitia}} {{usablecity}} hdj82t1lcdy0ta94n47r9c42t2uzdk6 0 26609 5091351 5042355 2025-07-11T10:53:04Z 92.184.117.73 Fixed typo 5091351 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Palos de la Frontera banner.jpg}} [[File:Palos.jpg|thumb]] '''[http://www.palosfrontera.com/ Palos de la Frontera]''' is a town of 11,000 people (2019) in [[Andalucia]], [[Spain]]. Probably most important for Palos is that Christopher Columbus developed his plans here and started his discovery with support of the people in Palos. The town built ships and most of the sailors accompanying Columbus came from this town. See also [[Voyages of Columbus]]. ==Understand == The main crops are strawberries and strawberry, the olive, the peach and triticale. ==Get in== The town lies about 14 km from the provincial capital, [[Huelva]], 9 km from the neighbouring city of Moguer, and a few kilometers from the beaches of Mazagón. ==Get around== ==See== * '''Wharf of the Caravels''' (''Muelle de las Carabelas'') is a museum showing replicas of the boats Columbus used. [[File:Iglesia de San Jorge 01.jpg|thumb|Church of San Jorge]] *'''The church of San Jorge''', of Mudejar Gothic style, with a Mudejar door called that of "the bride and groom". Inside you can see a 13th-century alabaster image with the figure of Saint Anne, a 17th-century Tuscan ceramic altarpiece and some 16th century Renaissance frescoes. In this Church the Royal Provision was read, which ordered Diego Rodríguez Prieto and other residents of the town of Palos, to have two caravels prepared to leave with Christopher Columbus. *'''The Puerto de Palos''' was the port from which the discovery expedition departed on August 3, 1492, led by Christopher Columbus in command of the caravel ''Santa María'' and the caravels ''Pinta'' and ''Niña''. *'''The castle'''. Next to the church, on a head, we find the remains of the Palos castle, which have been the subject of archaeological interventions on several occasions. *The '''Martín Alonso Pinzón House Museum''', where you can admire navigation tools, paintings and maps related to the Columbian deed; visits are made by appointment at the Town Hall. *'''La Fontanilla'''. Leaving Palos you reach La Fontanilla. From the Puerta de los Novios of the Church of San Jorge, one accessed the Fontanilla, next to which was the historic Pier from which the discovery expedition departed, and which was the public fountain of Palos, protected by a square temple of bricks built in the 13th-century and in the Mudejar style, where, according to tradition, the Santa María, la Niña and la Pinta ships were supplied with water. *'''Calzadilla Pier'''. Small pier built to commemorate the IV Centenary of the Discovery of America and which was restored at the end of the 20th century. From this place the historical expedition of the Plus Ultra departed on January 22, 1926, and that made the route Palos de la Frontera - Buenos Aires. Upon their return on April 5, 1926, the crew was received by King Alfonso XIII. *The '''statue of Martín Alonso Pinzón''', captain and owner of this town and protagonist of the feat of Discovery. [[File:Monasterio de la Rabida R01.jpg|thumb|La Rabida]] *'''La Rabida''': On the road to Huelva is La Rábida, where you will find the Franciscan monastery of La Rábida. The monastery is the place where Columbus's trip was forged. Erected in the 14th - 15th centuries, the Gothic - Mudejar church stands out for its artistic interest in which you can admire a crucified and the Virgin of Miracles, from the 15th century, in front of which Columbus and the sailors who carried out the company prayed discoverer. Also noteworthy are the rooms decorated with frescoes by Daniel Vázquez Díaz, the cloister and the museum, where many objects commemorating the Discovery of America are preserved. It is 2000 m² in size and has an irregular plan. The monastery has undergone modifications throughout the more than 500 years of its history, especially as a result of the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Christopher Columbus stayed in this monastery for years before leaving for the New World. The monastery was declared a National Monument in 1856. It also deserved the declaration of the First Historical Monument of the Hispanic peoples . *'''Replica of "The Three Caravels"''' at the Dock of the Caravels in Palos. *'''Monument to the Discoverers''' is reached by an avenue in which all the shields of the Ibero-American countries are shown, made in tiles. Nearby we find the José Celestino Mutis Botanical Park, with native and American species. Also in this environment is the International University of Andalusia, Sede Iberoamericana Santa Maria de la Rabida, the Iberoamerican Forum, modern and multipurpose building as a palace of congresses, concerts and shows, El Muelle de la Carabelas, opposite, a permanent exhibition place, where we can relive the American adventure and you can visit the replicas of the caravels that were made for the celebration of the V Centenary. Downstream we find the Muelle de la Reina, where, through Icarus, the first flight between Spain and America is commemorated, that of the Plus Ultra seaplane. ==Do== *'''Mazagon'''. On the coast you can visit the beaches of Mazagón, a Parador de Turismo and the Puerto Deportivo with modern facilities. *Patron saint festivities of '''San Jorge Mártir''' . On April 23, the feast of the local patron is celebrated. This holy martyr is the patron of the city since the founding of the parish that bears the same name. On that day a solemn religious function is celebrated in the morning and in the afternoon the procession with the image of the patron saint takes place. *On August 15, the day of the Assumption of Mary, the '''feast of N.ª S.ª de los Milagros''' is celebrated, where after the solemn Eucharistic Function on the morning of that day, the great procession of the patron saint takes place. the main streets of the city during the evening. *'''Pilgrimage of N.ª S.ª de los Milagros'''. The last weekend of August the pilgrimage of the patron is celebrated in the place of La Rábida, with the typical Andalusian color of this type of celebrations around the figure of the Virgin Mary. *The dates of the '''departure of the caravels''' are commemorated, on August 3, the return of the caravels, on March 15, the '''Discovery of America''', on October 12, and the '''departure of the Plus Ultra''', on January 22. *'''Medieval Discovery Fair''': Around March 15 (local day of Martín Alonso Pinzón), the Medieval Discovery Fair is held, turning the town into a typical 15th-century town. This fair is usually held the weekend after March 15. ==Buy== Throughout the city you can find different samples of crafts, both local and from the province. ==Eat== The geographical location of Palos de la Frontera allows it to have high-quality products, as diverse as seafood (white prawns, prawns or crayfish) and Iberian ham, as well as an excellent range of Huelva County wines. As typical dishes, those made with fish such as mackerel with tomato or cuttlefish with potatoes stand out, as well as other typical dishes such as "beans enzapatás". But the product of special relevance is the strawberry, which has become the economic engine of the town. Also notable are its pastries which highlight the hornazos of almonds and citron. ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Go next== {{outlinecity}} {{geo|37.2333|-6.9000}} {{isPartOf|Huelva (province)}} 9itp6rywugulvs10ofrjbvq6i111qzz 0 27000 5091122 5038884 2025-07-11T01:17:00Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Museums */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091122 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Patna_Banner.jpg}} '''Patna''' (Hindi: पटना ''Patnā'') is the capital of [[Bihar]] and the second largest metropolis in eastern [[India]]. ==Understand== [[File:003 Torana, 8c Udayagiri (9221507404).jpg|thumbnail|The Patna Museum]] The ancient name of Patna was "Pataliputra" and it was the capital of the [[Maurya Empire|Maurya]] and Gupta empires. With a glorious period of history spanning a thousand years (500 BCE–400 CE), Pataliputra is where India's first major kingdoms rose and fell. Patna is on three sacred rivers, the Ganges, the Sone and the Poonpun. The city has a glorious past and is now a bustling up-and-coming metropolis. Legend has it that a sanctified Ganga had watched with reverence as a hallowed Buddha blessed this place to be a realm of great Kings and their Empires. Belonging to the blue family of cities with a royal heritage, it is the land where the greatest emperors of India walked, and where the greatest saints chose to preach. Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th [[Sikhism|Sikh]] Guru was born here. For anyone with a taste for history and religion, this place flies high. Ajastshatru, second of the Magadh Kings, built a fort at Pataligram on the banks of the Ganges river. This later became the famous Mauryan metropolis of Pataliputra and was ruled by Chandragupta Maurya, his son Bindusara and his grandson Asoka, acclaimed for the spread of Buddhism across India. Following the fall of the Maurya Empire, the next powerful empire to have its capital in Pataliputra was the Gupta Empire, which reached its zenith under the rule of Chandra Gupta I (not to be confused with Chandragupta Maurya), his son Samudra Gupta and his grandson Chandra Gupta II. Other emperors who ruled from Pataliputra were the Pala Kings, Shershah Suri (16th century) and Azimush-Shan (18th century), the grandson of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, who renamed it Azeemabad. Vestiges of this ancient city can be seen at Kumhrar, Bhikhnapahari, Agamkuan, Bulandi Bag etc. Today, it is apparent that Bihar and Patna have seen better days. Bihar is one of the poorest states of India, and for the first-time foreigner visitor Patna will look a chaotic, noisy city with many signs of poverty even near the city centre. This may change soon, since it has become one of the fastest growing cities of India. With real estate booming at a dizzying pace, shopping malls, theatres, new businesses, food joints it carries the seed for a lively city life, and a tourist haven-to-be. It is an important business and education centre of eastern India. More significantly, it is a gateway to the Buddhist and Jain pilgrim centres of Vaishali, Rajgir, Nalanda, Bodhgaya, Keshariya and Pawapuri. The growing city of Patna is a great place to visit and a great place to live in. Lying along the banks of the Ganges River, Patna is surrounded by significant religious centres for the Buddhists, Sikhs, and Jains. This city has been home to two great religions, Buddhism and Jainism, and myriad dynasties from ancient to modern times. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Jay Prakash Narayan Airport | alt=Patna Airport or Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport, {{IATA|PAT}} | url=http://www.aai.aero/allAirports/Patna_airpo_gi.jsp | email= | address= | lat=25.593611 | long=85.091944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Jay Prakash Narayan Airport | wikidata=Q2673010 | content=The domestic airport serving the city. Directly connected to [[Delhi]], [[Lucknow]], [[Kolkata]], [[Mumbai]], [[Bangalore]],[[Hyderabad]], [[Chennai]], [[Ahmadabad]], [[Indore]] and [[Ranchi]], with daily flights to and from Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. }} ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in India}} [[File:A view of Patna Junction.jpg|alt=A view of Patna Junction from one of the platforms|thumb|A view of Patna Junction from one of the platforms]] {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Patna Junction|city=India|ecr}}|wikidata=Q15265677}} (PNBE) is on [[Howrah]]–[[Delhi]] main line. Trains from Nepal border area (Gorakhpur and Raxaul) as well as some from Delhi, Varanasi and the North-East arrive at {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Hajipur Junction|city=India|ecr}}|wikidata=Q15222540}}, located on the other side of the Ganges. Although the distance from Patna Junction station is mere 11km, including 6 km on one of India's longest river bridge, you should prepare for 40 minutes to up to 2-hour ride in the bad traffic. There are prepaid and shared taxis/rickshaws available throughout the day between two stations. Shared rickshaws (₹30) leave from south side of Patna Junction. Long-distance trains arrive from many other major cities including [[Lucknow]], [[Amritsar]], [[Chandigarh]], [[Vadodara]], [[Surat]], [[Nagpur]], [[Pune]], [[Raipur]], [[Jaipur]], [[Bhubaneswar]], [[Puri]], [[Prayagraj]], [[Varanasi]], [[Ranchi]], [[Chennai]], [[Bangalore]], [[Mysore]], [[Hyderabad]], [[Goa]], [[Mangalore]], [[Kozhikode]] and [[Kochi]]. Some express trains to Patna Junction include: * From [[Bangalore]]: Sanghmitra Express * From [[Howrah]]: Danapur Express, Garib Rath Express, Jan Shatabdi Express, Lal Quila Express, Rajdhani Express (via Patna), Udyan Abha Toofan Express, Vande Bharat Express, Vibhuti Express * From [[Mumbai]]: Mumbai CSMT–Rajendra Nagar Patna Express, Mumbai LTT–Patna Rajendra Nagar Express * From [[New Delhi]]: Garib Rath Express, Howrah Rajdhani Express, Lal Quila Express, Magadh Express, Rajendra Nagar Tejas Rajdhani Express, Sampark Kranti Express, Sharamjeevi Express, Udyan Abha Toofan Express, Vikramshila Express * From [[Ranchi]]: Hatia Express, Jan Shatabdi Express, Vande Bharat Express * From [[Varanasi]]: Kashi Jan Shatabdi Express, Mathura Express, Vibhuti Express ===By car=== Patna is connected by road with all major cities of the country via (National Highway 30, 31 & 19). Here is the list of destinations by distance from Patna: BodhGaya (130 km), Muzaffarpur (80 km) Rajgir (103 km), Vaishali (40 km), Kolkata (535 km), Varanasi (300 km), Delhi (988 km), Ranchi (350 km), Jamshedpur (470 km), Kathmandu (373 km), Siliguri (380 km), Darjeeling (430 km), Nalanda (90 km). BSTDC (Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation) offers deluxe bus/car rental services for the following destinations: Bodhgaya, Ranchi, Rajgir, Pawapuri, Nalanda & Vaishali, On the other hand, the Inter-State Bus Terminus at Bankipore (Near Gandhi Maidan) and Mithapur, Luxury buses are available to the Nepal border (Raxaul/Birganj), [[Gaya]], [[Siliguri]], [[Ranchi]], Jamshedpur, Purnia etc. ==Get around== {{mapframe|25.61|85.141388888889|zoom=13}} There are a few car rental companies available in Patna. But foreign travellers who have not driven in India may find driving the roads in Patna and Bihar a bit stressful due to the poor road conditions and the constant heavy traffic, although the road conditions have improved. ===By auto rickshaw=== Shared 'Tempo' as they are called are the easiest and cheapest way to get around in Patna. Fare is normally in the range of ₹5-15 and drivers rarely try to charge more. However, in case you are trying to reserve an auto, it would be better to know the distance well in advance because that is not the preferred means of transportation for the locals and it would mean being charged exorbitant rates. ===By bus=== Though public transport is non existent there are a few buses plying on the main routes. Prices are generally 20-30% lesser than Tempos. However, they are less comfortable.However, after many trials throughout the decade, bsrtc runs multiple buses on all major routes inside and outside the city including neighbouring satellite towns like hajipur, bihta, biharsharif.Buses originate from the iconic gandhi maidan, and most of them visit the main railway station, patna jn. ==See== [[Image:Gandhi Setu in Patna, India.jpg|right|thumb|Mahatma Gandhi Setu.]] [[Image:Giraffe at patna zoo.JPG|right|thumb|Giraffe at the Patna Zoo.]] * {{see | name=Buddha Smriti Park | alt=Buddha Memorial Park | url= | email= | address=Frazer Rd | lat=25.606667 | long=85.136111 | directions=near {{station|Patna Junction|city=india|ecr}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Closed M | price=₹10, ₹50 for stupa | wikidata=Q15205531 | lastedit=2023-10-12 | content=A large park constructed in former jail ground is an oasis from noise and bustle of the city. Quiet meditative place and air conditioned libraries are the real relief even for a waiting time for the train. The large stupa is where ashes of Buddha originally from Vaishali are kept. There is a laser show in the evenings, which is related to the history of Bihar from the Ramayana to present. }} * {{see | name=Gandhi Maidan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.61745 | long=85.14471 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Gandhi Maidan | wikidata=Q5520700 | lastedit=2023-10-12 | content=Gandhi Maidan is the heart of this city today. }} * {{see | name=Golghar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.620278 | long=85.139167 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3630493 | lastedit=2023-10-12 | content=Captain John Garstin built a Golghar for the storage of food for the British army with storing capacity of 140,000 tons in 1786. }} * {{see | name=Har Mandir Saheb | content=The Birth place of the 10th Sikh Guru, Shri Guru Gobind Singh Jee. }} * {{see | name=Khuda Baksh Oriental Library | address=Ashok Rajpath. }} * {{see | name=Kumhrar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.59277 | long=85.18681 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Explore the ancient ruins of Pataliputra. Of the 80 pillars (Fa Hien, in 5th century CE, found the pillars shining as bright as glass) excavated at the site; only one remains. }} * {{see | name=Mahatma Gandhi Setu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.62312 | long=85.20771 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The bridge over the river Ganges connecting Patna and Hajipur. }} * {{see | name=Mahavir Mandir | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.63561 | long=85.09276 | directions=near Patna Junction | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Pathar ki Masjid | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.61487 | long=85.18565 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Built by Pervez, the elder brother of Shah Jahan and the first Mughal prince who made Bihar his residence. }} * {{see | name=Sanjay Gandhi Jaivik Udyan | alt=Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, Patna Zoo | url=http://forest.bih.nic.in/SGBPark.htm | email= | address=Bailey Rd | lat=25.596513 | long=85.099304 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7418426 | lastedit=2023-10-12 | content=One of the most popular picnic spots in Patna. It consists of a zoo and a botanical garden. }} === Museums === * {{see | name=Bihar Museum | alt= | url=http://biharmuseum.org | email= | address=Bailey Rd | lat=25.60807 | long=85.120992 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= Tuesday-Sunday 10:00–19:00 | price= | wikidata=Q15961638 | lastedit=2023-10-12 | content=Opened in 2015, the museum shows you the history of Bihar. It has several galleries, including the regional gallery, the contemporary gallery, the historical art galleries and the gallery on Bihari diaspora. The museum is open from 10:00 to 19:00 except Monday. However, the history part is closed after 17:00 hours and only the Children's Gallery is open from 17:00 to 19:00. Ticket costs for Indians are as follows: Adults - ₹100, Children (up to 12 years) - ₹50, Students - ₹50, while for foreigners is: Adults - ₹500, Children (up to 12 years) - ₹250, Camera - ₹100 }} * {{see | name=Gandhi Sangrahalaya | alt= | url=http://gandhisangrahalayapatna.org/ | email= | address= | lat=25.6205 | long=85.1422 | directions=NW of Gandhi Maidan | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17003366 | lastedit=2023-10-12 | content=A public museum showcasing the life and principles of Mahatma Gandhi. It contains an exhibition containing photos, paintings, sculptures, manuscripts and quotations; all the major events in his life are told here. There is also a section containing photographs of his childhood through the various phases of Gandhi's life, including being taken to the crematorium. The building also houses a library which has a rich collection of books, magazine, literature and audio-video material related to Gandhi's life. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Indira Gandhi Planetarium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bailey Rd | lat=25.610274 | long=85.131924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Patna Planetarium | wikidata=Q7145111 | lastedit=2019-05-26 | content=Among the largest and best planetariums in Asia, it attracts a large number of both domestic and foreign tourists. The planetarium has regular film shows on subjects related to astronomy and also holds exhibitions. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Patna Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.612691 | long=85.133296 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Entry for foreigners ₹250, Indians, ₹10 additional ₹250 to see Holy Relic Casket. | wikipedia=Patna Museum | wikidata=Q1428044 | lastedit=2019-05-26 | content=It has more than 50,000 rare art objects, with many related to India in the ancient, middle ages and the British colonial era. Don't forget to see the Holy Relic Casket with the sacred ashes of Lord Buddha, and the beautiful statue '''Yakshani'''. }} * {{see | name=Shrikrishna Science Centre | alt= | url=http://sksciencecentre.org/ | email=vigyankendrapatna@gmail.com | address=West Gandhi Maidan, Raja Ji Salai, Dujra Diara | lat=25.611 | long=85.144 | directions= | phone=+91 612 220 6992 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹30 for general entry, tickets for particular shows cost extra | wikidata=Q7586402 | lastedit=2021-03-12 | content=The main science museum in the city with over 50 exhibits on physics and mathematics, with an emphasis towards optical illusions. Targeted towards kid aged 10 and over but adults will also have an enjoyable time the first time around. }} === Religious sites === * {{listing | type=see | name=Kali Temple-Darbhanga House | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.621626 | long=85.164402 | directions=At Patna University Campus on the bank of the Ganges | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-26 | content=One of the oldest temple of Goddess Kali. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Padri Ki Haveli | alt=Mansion of Padre | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.601218 | long=85.219435 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Padri Ki Haveli | wikidata=Q7123951 | lastedit=2019-05-26 | content=Oldest church in Bihar. When Roman Catholics first arrived in Bihar, they built a small church in 1713. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Vaishali Stupa | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-26 | content=Buddhist site with one of the oldest stupa. }} situated about 60 km from gandhi maidan. *1⃣5⃣ '''Badi Patandevi''' in old part of the city badi Patandevi temple along with choti Patandevi temple is said to be the reason the city was named Patna. ==Do== You can go on excursions to the various religious and historical places in and around Patna. Do not miss a boat ride on the mighty Ganges river. When in Patna, try food typical to the region such as pua-pittha, tilkut, chiwra, makhana, the famed sattu or the farmer's staple, litti chokha, and the famous paan. * {{do | name=Buddha Smriti Udyaan | alt=Buddha Memorial Park | url=https://tourism.bihar.gov.in/en/destinations/patna/buddha-smriti-park | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-02-20 | content=Meditate here. Long/short term courses and hourly rental of meditation cell are available. }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Patna golf club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bailey Rd, Rajbansi Nagar | lat=25.6008 | long=85.09544 | directions= | phone=+91 92348 99643 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17016814 | content=With some very tough holes, this well-maintained course situated downtown will prove interesting to amateur and pros alike. The Patna Golf Club is set in beautiful surroundings. }} * {{do | name=Maner-Sufi Saint Shrine | directions=30km west of Patna | content=You can buy famous Maner Ka Ladoo(Sweets). Maner Sweets is one of the popular shops that specializes in these. However, avoid going there in the late evening or night. }} * {{do | name=P&M Mall | address=Patliputra Kurji Road, Patliputra | content=You can visit this mall. }} * '''Revolving Restaurant''' Patna can now boast of a revolving restaurant, the biggest of its kind in the country, situated atop the tallest tower in the city on the 18th floor of Biscomaun Bhawan near Gandhi Maidan. Based on the German technique, the 5HP motor that revolves the restaurant can be fixed to take one revolution in 45, 60 or 90 minutes. * '''Take a boat-ride in the Ganges.''', near Gandhi ghat * {{listing | type=do | name=Sonepur Cattle Fair | alt=Sonepur Mela | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sonepur Cattle Fair | wikidata=Q7560931 | lastedit=2019-05-26 | content=Largest cattle and animal fair in Asia. It is held in November in Sonepur which across the Ganges from Patna. }} ==Buy== '''Madhubani Paintings''' can be bought from emporiums at '''Mauyra Lok''', a shopping center located on "Dak- Bunglow" road. You can visit many malls around Frazer road/Dak Bunglow Crossing such as '''Vishal Mega Mart, Maurya Lok Complex''' and '''Patna Market''' on Ashok Rajpath, '''Hathwa Market''', Bari Path & '''Alankar Palace''' and other shopping arcades near '''Boring Road Crossing''' Relatively new malls include '''Patna Central Mall''' and '''P&M Mall''' Patliputra Kurji Road, Patliputra. *{{buy | name=Bandhan Boutique | url= | email= | address=G-9, Pushpanjali Complex, Opp. S.K. Puri Check Post, Boring Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +91 8102306282 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Eat== [[File:Bihari Style Pudina Chicken Pulao with Raita and Sabudana Cutlet.jpg|thumbnail|''Pudina chicken pulao'' or chicken rice with curd, Patna style]] ===What=== * '''Anarsa''' is one of the finest sweet delicacies of Bihar. It has rice flour shell with khoya filling, with white til in the upper shell. * '''Chaat''' - Though chaat is a very popular snack item throughout India, the special thing about 'Patna Chaat' is its authentic tamarind flavor, as opposed to the sweet and salty Delhi Chaat. Take the opportunity to relish "samosa chaat" or "tikki chaat". * '''Dahi Chura Chini''', which is a mixture of curd, beaten rice and sugar, is the favourite food in North Bihar, especially in the Mithila region! * '''Litti chokha''' is a local specialty. ''Litti'' is a primarily ball-shaped stuffed preparation, and the shape of the ball varies depending on the preparation. With a shell made of wheat flour, the taste of ''litti'' very much depends on the filling, which includes gram flour and a combination of condiments and spices. ''Chokha'' a preparation of smoked eggplant/''brinjal'' or tomato, accompanies ''litti''. The smoked tomato or eggplant is mashed and dressed with coriander leaves, shredded green chilies and mustard oil, which gives a distinct flavor to the ''chokha''. * '''Makhana''' is soft fruit grown in water. It is light fried and with little salt it serves the purpose of light snacks. * '''Sweets''', especially ''Peda'' and ''Kalakand'', which are preparations of condensed milk from Sudha Dairy Parlours. The sweets must be consumed within 7 days. * '''Tilkut''', '''Khaja''' are other delicacies of Bihar * {{eat | name=Thekua and Pudukia | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-04-30 | content= }} ===Where=== ====Restaurants==== *'''Mainland China''', Patna Central Mall, Frazer Road *'''Mcdonald's''', East Gandhi Maidan *'''Bansi Vihar''', Near Dak Bunglow Crossing * '''China Garden''', Frazer Road * '''Cloud 9''', Boring Road There are three cheap and good Indian restaurants just as you come out of the north train station overpass. The one in the middle has English menus. ====Sweets Parlours==== * '''Cake Palace''', New Dak Bunglow Road * '''Cozy Confectioners''', Keshav Palace, Bailey Road * '''Kwality Sweets''', Boring Road * '''Lucknow Sweets''', Dak Bunglow Crossing * '''Maner Sweets''', Maurya Lok Complex, New Dak Bungalow Road * '''Sweet Home''', Alankar Palace, Boring Road * '''Sweet Garden''', Keshav Palace, Bailey Road ==Drink== Sattu-pani is among the popular drinks, lassi made of curd, dry fruits & sugar. * '''Country Club International''', Patliputra Colony * '''Mamta Anarkali''', Near Dak Bunglow Crossing * '''Mamta Residency''', Near Dak Bunglow Crossing * '''Oasis''', Boring Road *{{drink | name=Pind Balluchi | alt= | url= | email= | address=Revolving Floor, Biscomaun Bhawan, Gandhi Maidan | lat= | long= | directions=Opposite Gandi Maidan | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Pind Balluchi is a well-known chain of restaurants with franchises in various cities, now including Patna. }} * '''The Purple Lounge''', SP Verma Road * '''The Velocity''', Nnear Dak Bunglow Crossing ==Sleep== Patna is a growing business city, and as such hotels tend to be overpriced for the room provided. It also means that many hotels are full most nights, giving little incentive to improve facilities. ===Budget=== * '''Country Club International''', Patliputra colony * '''Heritage Regency''', White House, Budh Marg, Near Bhumi Bikash Bank. 0.5 km from Railway Station. * '''Hotel Adarsh''', near Patna Junction (Railway Station) * '''Hotel Akash''' , Frazer Road * '''Hotel Anand Regency''', near Patna Junction (Railway Station) * '''Hotel Clark Inn''', Jamal Road * '''Hotel Magadh''', Bhatacharya Road-Naya Tola crossing * '''Hotel Marina''' , Frazer Road * '''Hotel Mayur''' , Frazer Road * '''Hotel Nand''', Bhatacharya Road-Naya Tola crossing * '''Hotel New Akash''' , Frazer Road * '''Hotel President''', Frazer Road * '''Hotel Vijay Shree Deluxe''', Exhibition Road, very average looking rooms start from ₹2750 a night. * '''Maharaja Inn''', Station Road, Rajendra Path * '''Mamta Regency''' , Frazer Road * '''Marwari Awas Grih''', Dakbunglow Crossing Other budget accommodation can be found on the road leading from the train station down towards the Mithapur bus stand. Very basic rooms start at ₹400. ===Mid-range=== * '''Hotel Kautilya Vihar''', R Block * '''Hotel Samrat International''' Dak Bunglow Crossing * '''Hotel Satkar International''', Frazer Road * '''Hotel Rajasthan''', Frazer Road * '''Hotel Republic''', Exhibition Road * '''Hotel Windsor''', Exhibition Road Crossing * {{sleep | name=Lemon Tree Premier | alt= | url=https://www.lemontreehotels.com/lemon-tree-premier/patna/hotel-patna.aspx | email=hi.ppt@lemontreehotels.com | address=876, Exhibition Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Gandhi Maidan | phone=+91 612 2502700 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-29 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * '''Hotel Panache''', South Gandhi Maidan * '''Hotel Gargee Grand''', Exhibition Road (near Big Bazaar) * '''Hotel Ashoka''', Birchand Patel Path (near IT Office) * '''Hotel Chanakya''', R Block * '''Hotel Maurya''', South Gandhi Maidan - Landmark of Patna *'''Hotel Lemon Tree Premier''', Exhibition road * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hotel Patliputra Exotica | alt= | url=http://www.patliputraexotica.com/ | email=info@patliputraexotica.com | address=Exhibition Road, Patna | lat=25.611708 | long=85.142805 | directions=Exhibition Rd, Bigbazar, Lodipur | phone=+91 6123301222 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-04-14 | content=Surrounded by shopping and a 15-minute walk from Gandhi Maidan park, this modern hotel is 1.4 km from the nearest railway station and 2.3 km from the Bihar Museum. Elegant rooms feature wood floors, flat-screen TVs and sitting areas, as well as desks, washers, and balconies or terraces. Suites add dining tables and separate sitting areas. A 24-hour buffet restaurant serves international cuisine. There's also a stylish lounge with a bar and a snack menu, as well as a banquet hall and a fitness room. }} ==Stay safe== There have been reports that British citizens are being discriminated against in Patna. Hotel staff may claim to have no vacancy whenever they see a guest with British passport, and direct you to the most expensive hotels in the city instead. ==Go next== * [[Bodh Gaya]], - The place where Buddha achieved enlightenment * ''Buddhist Bodh circuit'': [[Bodhgaya]] - [[Nalanda]] - [[Rajgir]] - Patna - [[Vaishali]] - Kesaria. * [[Deo]] - City of the Sun Temple. * [[Deoghar]] - A town containing a famous Babadham temple. It is 200 km from Patna By Railway (drop at Jasidih Junction on Patna Howrah Main Line) in Jharkhand State * [[Nalanda]] - Location of an ancient university with a nearby museum. * [[Pawapuri]] - The Place of Nirvana (Bhagwan Mahabir) - A holy site for the Jains. * [[Kesariya]] - Perhaps the oldest Shanti Stupa, it is situated in East Champaran District (Motihari), 170 km from Patna. * [[Munger]] - A small town on the bank of Ganga famous for Yoga. * [[Nepal]] and [[Raxaul]] - Buses are available to Raxaul and Jogbani at the Nepali border, where you can hop on a bus to Kathmandu and Pokhra. These buses leave at about 07:00 from the Mithapur bus stop 3 km south of the train station. They don't leave at night during summer (tourist off season). The roads going north out of town are particularly bad - sit as far forward in the bus as you can! * [[Rajgir]] - The place Vishwa Shanti Shutpa you can joy on Areial Ropeway, You can enjoy Venuvana (Beautiful Garden) * [[Ranchi]] * [[Vaishali]] - A town on Bank of Ganga famous for its banana, Buddhist temple and handicrafts {{IsPartOf|Magadha}} {{usablecity}} {{geo|25.61|85.141388889}} 25s0ng6ml3jgi35on0a5me6naryits1 0 27169 5091135 4735268 2025-07-11T01:45:55Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Do */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091135 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pemberton banner upper joffre lake.jpg|pgname=Pemberton|caption=Upper Joffre Lake looking north}} '''[https://www.pemberton.ca/ Pemberton]''', and the wider Pemberton Valley, is a pretty area in the north of the [[Sea to Sky]] region of [[British Columbia]], [[Canada]]. The valley floor is mostly agricultural, while the surrounding mountains provide climbing, mountain biking and some spectacular hiking opportunities. In 2021, the village of Pemberton was home to 3,400 people. == Understand == [[File:Haybales in pemberton.JPG|thumb|275px|Farming in the Pemberton Valley]] The Pemberton area is part of the traditional territory of the Lil'wat First Nation. European presence started with the Fraser Gold Rush in the 1858 with permanent non-native settlement beginning in the 1870s, but settlement was slow until the valley was connected to Vancouver by rail in 1915. In the days of the Fraser Gold Rush Trail, steamboat and other water traffic voyaged from New Westminster via Harrison Lake near the east end of the Fraser Valley to Port Douglas at the north end of Harrison Lake, then up a rough wagon road along the Lillooet River to the south end of Lillooet Lake, then by boat again to Port Pemberton at the Head of Lillooet Lake (near today's Mount Currie), then overland along the Birkenhead and Gates Rivers to Anderson Lake, where more boats to Seton Portage and Seton Lake landed at the head of another wagon road near [[Lillooet]]. One of the early attractions of the valley was the richness of the soil and farming continues to be important to the area. The Pemberton Valley is an important centre for seed potatoes and, more recently, organic farming, with a big Slow Food/Tere Madre movement. Pemberton is a bedroom community of Whistler. Tourism has become more important to Pemberton, including outdoor recreation, eco & agro-tourism. The nearby mountains and lakes provide a wealth of opportunities activities at all levels, for the most intrepid to generally being outdoors and taking in the scenery. For the outdoor enthusiast there is in the summer: biking, backpacking, boating, hiking, horse riding, golfing, & mountaineering. In the winter, there is skiing, sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, snowboarding, ice climbing, hockey, skating & curling on the smaller lakes. For flight enthusiasts Pemberton is a centre of hang gliding, paragliding, gliding, skydiving, and heli-tours with the town's own airport for private planes, small jets & helicopters. The Valley hosted the Canadian Paragliding Nationals in 2012. ===Visitor information === *{{listing | name=Pemberton & District Visitor Information Centre | url=https://tourismpembertonbc.com/ | email= | address=Hwy 99 & Portage Rd | lat=50.31691 | long=-122.79880 | directions=across from the PetroCan gas station | phone=+1 604-894-6175 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Early May to late Sept: 9AM-5PM | price= Free |lastedit=2023-03-09| content= Information on local businesses, events and activities. }} ==Get in== ===By car=== The main way in and out of the Pemberton area is '''Highway 99'''. Pemberton is considered the end of the Sea to Sky Highway, even though Highway 99 continues north to [[Lillooet]]. The portion of Highway 99 between Pemberton and Lillooet is usually referred to as the Duffy Lake Road. Pemberton is 158 km north of [[Vancouver]] and 33 km north of [[Whistler]] Village. About 22 km & 20 minutes from Whistler northern town limits to the edge of Pemberton. '''4x4 roads''': *North: dirt & gravel '''High Line''' via Seaton Portage & Selath to Lillooet * West & north: dirt & gravel '''Hurley Pass''' to Braelorne & Goldbridge in summer only. Winter via snowmoble. * East: '''In-shuck-ch''' Forest Service Road (FSR) via Lillooet Lake, Skookumchuck Hot Springs, Port Douglas, & Harrison Lake to Harrison Hotsprings. * [https://www.drivebc.ca/#mapView&z=11&ll=50.306885%2C-122.757797 Link TransBC] road reports * [https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/natural-resource-use/resource-roads/local-road-safety-information/sea-to-sky-natural-resource-district-road-safety-information/road-conditions-in-sea-to-sky-district Link RSR] road reports === By bus === * {{Listing|name=Parkbus|url=https://www.parkbus.ca/|email=info@parkbus.ca|tollfree=+1-800-928-7101|lastedit=2022-04-08|content=Service for 46 passengers from downtown [[Vancouver]] (Burrard Street) to parks that feature hiking or campus, such as: Shannon Falls, Stawamus Chief, Alice Lake, Garibaldi, Joffre Lake, Cypress, and Golden Ears Provincial Parks.}} ===By train=== There is no direct rail service - the Rocky Mountaineer just passes through. * {{listing |name=Lillooet - Salath - Seaton Portage |alt=Speeder |comment= |address= |directions=The 2-car passenger train provides, besides daily round trip service, limited service farther south to Ponderossa Ranch near D'Arcy & can be chartered to extend the Ponderossa Run to D'Arcy - 45 min north of Pemberton - at the head of Anderson Lake. Expect occasional minor delays by mountain goats or Big Horn Sheep. They scatter at sight of the '''CN''' freight trains on the '''BCR''' Line but show no fear of the 2-car self-propelled passenger cars. |phone= |tollfree=|fax= |email= |url=https://www.zipleaf.ca/Companies/Pemberton-Gateway-Village-Suites/Article-Canadaas-Greatest-Hidden-Rail-Trip-BBC-Travel-Feature |hours= |price= |wikipedia=|wikidata=|image=|lastedit=2018-02-01|content=|lat= |long= |description=}} === By plane=== * {{go | name=Pemberton Regional Airport | alt=Pemberton Airport, Pemberton Areodrome, CYPS, Whistler local airport, Whistler regional airport | url=https://www.pemberton.ca/municipal-services/pemberton-regional-airport | email= | address= | lat=50.3025 | long=-122.7378 | directions= | phone=+1 604-894-6135 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 8AM-5PM or by appointment | price= | wikipedia=Pemberton Regional Airport | wikidata=Q3913483 |lastedit=2023-03-09| content= }} ** {{listing |name=Air: heli-skiing, charter planes & helicopters |alt=Web Cam |comment= |address= |directions= |phone= |fax= |email= |url=https://www.metcam.navcanada.ca/hb/player.jsp?id=64&cam=148&lang=e |hours= |price= |lastedit=2023-03-09|lat= |long= |description=}} ** {{listing | name=Blackcomb Aviation | alt=Prop, jet & helicopters | url=https://blackcombhelicopters.com/bases/pemberton.htm | email=ameeker@blackcombaviation.com | address=1850 Airport Road | lat=50.30333 | long=-122.74014 | directions= | phone=+1 604-894-5153 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 8AM-5PM or by appointment | price= |lastedit=2023-03-09| content= }} ** {{listing |name=Blackcomb Helicopters |alt= |comment= |address=Head Office: 1641 Airport Road. Booking Office [[Whistler]], 218-4293 Mountain Square |directions=Booking Office Whistler by gondola |phone=+1 604-894-1144 |fax= |email=info@coastrangeheliskiing.com |url=https://blackcombhelicopters.com/ |hours= |price= |lastedit=2023-03-09|lat=50.30326 |long=-122.74014 |description=}} ** {{listing | name=Tyax Adventures | alt= | url=https://www.tyaxadventures.com/ | email=fun@tyaxadventures.com | address=17 - 1850 Airport Road | lat=50.30333 | long=-122.74014 | directions= | phone=+1 250-238-0177 | tollfree=+1-888-892-9288 | fax= | hours=M-F 8AM-5PM or by appointment | price=Starting $600/plane load |lastedit=2023-03-09| content=Winter Dec-May – Ski plane: wheels & skis that lands on a hard surface runway or snow & ice. Access backcountry: ski touring, winter camping, sightseeing or simply transportation. In old Pemberton Soaring hanger. }} ** {{listing | name= BCFS Fire Attack Base | alt= Fire Base, Forest Fire Fighting Base | url=https://dir.gov.bc.ca/gtds.cgi?show=Branch&organizationCode=FLNR&organizationalUnitCode=FCOSQ#OUFOCUS | email=Dombowsky@gov.bc.ca | address=2000 Airport Road | lat=50.305590 | long=-122.73004| directions=end of Airport Rd. directly north of eastern tip of runway. | phone=+1 604-894-5436 | tollfree=| fax=+1 604 894-5092 | hours=Summer Fire Season | price= |lastedit=2023-03-09| content=The BCFS Fire Attack Base logistics & training base; aircraft kept at Pemberton Aerodrome. }} ===By bike=== You can cycle to Pemberton via Highway 99. 1st & 2nd only bikes in summer go on front bumper rack on WAVE Transit buses. ==Get around== {{mapframe|50.320278|-122.78|zoom=12}} The village of Pemberton is small so it's easy to get around it by foot. However, travel to other parts of the Pemberton Valley or to the Provincial Parks is easiest by car or bike. === By public transit === * {{listing|name=BC Transit (Pemberton Valley Transit System)|alt=|url=https://www.bctransit.com/pemberton-valley/home|email=|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+1-604-894-6135|tollfree=|hours=|price=Local transit: $2.50 for adults, and $2 for seniors and students; Travel to or from Whistler: $4.50|lastedit=2022-04-08|content=Operates two bus routes daily, a multiple times per day: }} ** Bus route 99 connects between [[Whistler]] and Pemberton ** Bus route 100 connects Pemberton village with Mount Currie and Xit'olacw. The bus runs daily every 1½ to 3 hours from 6AM to 7:45PM and sticks close to Highway 99 so it's not very useful for visitors. ==See== * [[File:Nairnfalls.jpg|thumb|Nairn Falls Provincial Park]]{{see | name=Birkenhead Lake Provincial Park | alt= | url=https://bcparks.ca/birkenhead-lake-park/ | email= | address=Blackwater Creek Rd | lat=50.56329 | long=-122.6645 | directions=take Hwy 99 east to Mt Currie. At the main intersection, go straight (the D'Arcy Road). The Blackwater Rd turn-off is on the left, approximately 33 km up the road | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=No entry fee for day use. Canoe rentals are $20/$30/$50 (one hour/half day/full day) | wikidata=Q865553 | content=Well maintained dirt road. The park is focused on a very pretty lake ringed by mountains. There is a beach for swimming and canoe rentals are available. There are also a couple of day long intermediate hikes to the south end of the lake that parallel the north and south shores. The tip of south end of park is on a 100-year lease and has a subdivision with private entry. }} * {{see | name=[[Joffre Lakes Provincial Park]] | alt= | url= | email= | address=Highway 99 | lat=50.36342 | long=-122.49413 | directions=30 km east of Pemberton on Hwy 99 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1691881 | lastedit=2018-02-11 | content=A gem of a park that is easily accessed. The highlight is the hike that winds its way past three turquoise alpine lakes to below the Matier Glacier. Lower Joffre Lake, the first lake, is a short 5-10 walk from the parking lot and is well worth the stop. The hike to the middle and upper lakes is moderately difficult with some rocky sections and an elevation gain of over 350 m. The hike one-way is 5.5 km but well worth it if you have the time. }} * {{see | name=Nairn Falls Provincial Park | alt= | url=https://bcparks.ca/nairn-falls-park/ | email= | address=Highway 99 | lat=50.29611 | long=-122.81899 | directions=2 km south of the town center on Hwy 99 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q37272 | content=Small park with its focus on the 60-m Nairn Falls. Accessible year round but camping is summer only. Day-use permitted in winter. }} * {{see | name=Pemberton & District Museum & Archives Society | alt= | url=https://www.pembertonmuseum.org/ | email= | address=7455 Prospect St | lat=50.324238 | long=-122.80758 | directions= | phone=+1 (604) 894-5504 | tollfree= | hours=Tu–Sa 10AM–5PM | price=By donation | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=The compact site in the heart of Pemberton village displays five historic buildings from local history, stuffed with artifacts of how the settlers lived. In the yard are old farming machines. An interesting place to pass a couple of hours. The society which runs the museum also preserves about 25 m of archives. }} * {{see | name=Lil̓wat7úl Culture Centre | alt= | url=https://lilwat.ca/ | email=info@lilwat.ca | address=82 Ir 10 Rd | lat=50.318148 | long=-122.721293 | directions=U̓ll̓us Community Complex, second floor | phone=+1-604-894-6115 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 8:30AM–4:30PM (call to confirm) | price=Free, by donation | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=Exhibits of cedar baskets, wood carvings, mask, buckskin clothing. Cultural programs of stories, drum making, guided nature walks. These add up to Nt̓ákmen (Our Way), the traditional values that inform all aspects of a person’s life, from how they live on the land to using the Líl̓wat Ucwalmícwts (traditional language). The setting — the administrative and educational centre of a nation moving to self-determination — is itself educational. }} ==Do== '''Hot Springs''' are plentiful and beautiful in the area. Caution: There is a phenomenon called ''supernatant liquid''. A layer of lighter, fresh, cooler water can float on top of the denser, mineral-rich, hot-springs water. Dipping your toe into the top of the pool may deceive you. The water underneath may be hot enough to scald, and cause 2nd or 3rd degree burns. Check out the temperature below the surface first before jumping into the pool, by dipping in with a bottle on a stick or lanyard, or with a long-handled cooking-pot. Don't use your bare hands or feet. * {{do | name=Keyhole Hot Springs | alt=Keyhole, Pebble Creek Hotsprings | url=https://hotspringsofbc.ca/keyhole-hot-springs/ | email= | address=Upper Lillooet FSR 42.5 Km | lat=50.63 | long=-123.42 | directions=1½ hr west of Pemberton, on serviceable dirt road, being improved. Take Pemberton Meadows Road turn off at 25 km for Hurley & Upper Lillooet Forest Service Road (FSR), AKA Upper Lillooet FSR. Proceed down Upper Lillooet FSR till just before 42.5 Km. Parking lot on NE side of Road Trail Head on SW side. | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24/7 (closed in winter because of bears) | price=Free & free camping | lastedit=2017-10-13 | content=Three amazing cascading rustic pools, hanging off the side of the cliff like birds nests. The third and lowest pool sits right in the river. Each pool is fashioned out of native stone found on site & mortar by local & regional volunteers. Part of Meager Creek Hotspring/Geothermal Vent System. Lillooet River Trail is an easy 1 mile/1.6 km trail parallel to the river. Parking lot at ~ 42.5 Km, with bridge and an improved dirt road. The old trail at 44 Km is permanently decommissioned & closed. Area up hill of Hotsprings is a designated "Ungulate Area" for mountain sheep and goats. If you must bring a dog, keep it leashed. This is also a good idea because of all the Grizzlies & other bears around. Road snow-ploughing scheduled for Upper Lillooet Hydro Project, i.e. dams. Parking lot may not be ploughed. }} * {{do | name=Meager Creek Hot Springs | alt= | url= | email= | address=Upper South Creek FSR 11 km + 4 km up hill + 9.5-km trail | lat=50.5757 | long=-123.4594 | directions=2 hours and 64 km west of Pemberton: take the paved Pemberton Meadows Road, do not turn off, it becomes a gravel municipal road, that then becomes the South Creek FSR. At 40 Km the road forks. Take the up-hill south fork (left) on very rough zig-zagging dirt track of an old logging road for about 4 km, then 6 km along VOC Harrison Hut Trail where it meets the old Meager Creek Hot Springs Trail for 3.5 km more. Or, via Miller Creek over the pass, or down off the Meager Glacier or Pemberton Ice Cap. | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free & Free Bush Camping for now, but expect fees if trail tenure is granted | content=Three beautiful volunteer-built cascading large pools, with the lowest pool beside Meager Creek. No dogs or camping allowed poolside. Best to keep dogs leashed as it is a wildlife area, i.e. mountain sheep, mountain goats, coyotes, wolves, deer, moose, grizzlies & black bear. Vehicle access: 4-wheel drive vehicle or a full size pick-up with high clearance. Or deep winter via snow mobile. }} * {{do | name=Skookumchuck Hot Springs | alt=T'sek Hotsprings, Saint Agnes Well Hotsprings | url=https://www.tsekhotsprings.ca/ | email= | address=In-shuck-ch Forest Service Road | lat=49.937778 | long=-122.408333 | directions=1½ hrs to the East of Pemberton just before the town of Skookumchuck (trad.) renamed Skatin is on the In-shuck-ch Forest Service Road, In Shuck ch FSR, AKA Lillooet River Road, North. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$10/vehicle, $10/person, kids 10 and under free. If you don't overnight there's no vehicle charge. $7.50 per adult overnight for camping | wikipedia=Skookumchuck Hot Springs | lastedit=2018-02-01 | content=Key words Google Maps: Skookumchuck Hot Springs. }} * {{do | name=Sloquet Hotsprings | alt=Sloquet Hot Springs | url=https://www.sloquethotsprings.ca/ | email= | address=Sloquet Creek FSR 10 Km | lat=49.741 | long=-122.301 | directions=Can be accessed from the north by way of Pemberton & Mount Currie or from the South on FSR/logging roads on the west side of Harrison Lake. | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 / 7 | price=$5 day use & $15 camping at trail head | wikipedia=Sloquet Hot Springs | wikidata=Q24190653 | lastedit=2015-08-26 | content=The Hotsprings consists of a series of small but excellent hot pools in a wilderness setting. Hot water pours out of the forested side of the bank of Sloquet Creek & flows into 2 intimate 2-person double upper pools- tight fit, then into the larger shallow lower pool. On occasion, the water in the upper pools may be too hot to bathe in. The 3rd pool farther down the creek is just right temperature. }} [[File:Nairnfalls.jpg|thumb|250px|Nairn Falls]] '''Climbing''': surrounded by the Coastal Mountains, Pemberton has some of BC's finest hiking and back country camping opportunities. It also offers many opportunities for [[rock climbing]] and mountaineering. While not as popular as [[Squamish]], there are several climbing areas located within a short drive of the village. Detailed listings can be found in any of the area's climbing guide books. '''Other''': * {{do | name=Sunstone Golf Club | alt= | url=https://www.sunstonegolfclub.com/ | email= | address=1730 Airport Rd | lat=50.30313 | long=-122.75329 | directions=10 mins east of Pemberton just before Pemberton Airport. | phone=+1 604-894-6197 | tollfree=+1-800-390-4653 | fax= | hours= | price=$25-69, depending on day of week and time of day |lastedit=2023-03-09| content=A par 72 course with full service club house. }} * {{do | name=Big Sky Golf | alt= | url=https://www.bigskygolf.ca/ | email=info@bigskygolf.com | address=1690 Airport Rd | lat=50.30379 | long=-122.76757 | directions=10 mins east of Pemberton just before Pemberton Airport. Clubhouse down Big Sky Drive | phone=+1 604-894-6106 | tollfree=+1-800-668-7900 | fax=+1 604 894-5545 | hours=Summer: Su–Th 8AM–8PM, F Sa 8AM–9PM; other seasons shorter hours | price=Moderate prices | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=18-hole course with a 19th hole bar & restaurant. }} * {{do | name=Cayoosh Expeditions | alt= | url=https://cayooshexpeditions.ca/ | email=guiding@cayooshexpeditions.ca | address= | lat=50.334896 | long=-122.812463 | directions=Often meet at Old Community Centre Playing Fields Park | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Tandem flight $240 | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=Experienced paraglider pilots and skilled outdoor guides Corinne and Jim offer tandem paraglider pilots in some of the best free flight conditions in North America. They have been building the sport of paragliding in the Pemberton Valley for decades. They also can sell paragliding gear, up to complete wing and harness sets. }} * {{do | name=Sea To Sky Paragliding | alt= | url=https://www.seatoskyparagliding.com/ | email=fly@s2spg.com | address= | lat=50.334704 | long=-122.812463 | directions=Frequently meet at Old Community Centre Playing Fields Park | phone=+1 778-892-7733 | tollfree= | hours=May–October, by appointment | price=Tandem flight $240 | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=Instructor pilot Guy offers tandem paraglider flights, mostly from Mt Mackenzie. When the Canadian National Paragliding Championships were held here in 2017, Guy organised them. }} '''Biking''': Almost 200 km of free trails for cross-country skiing, biking, walking, or riding a horse in the whole Valley System. * {{do | name=Ironman triathlon | alt=| url=https://www.whistler.com/events/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-07-13 | content=23 km from Whistler Town limits to Pemberton. It's a popular, though challenging, hilly route. Part of the annual Whistler - Pemberton IronMan Canada Race. }} ==Buy== *{{buy | name=Be Natural, herbal apothecary and foods | url= | email= | address=108, 7433 Frontier St | lat=50.32186 | long=-122.80637 | directions=In the AG Foods strip mall | phone=+1 604-894-8884 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A health food store offering vitamin supplements, herbal blends, homeopathics, essential oils, personal care, bulk herbs and foods, healthy snacks, and specialty and organic groceries. Private health consults available by a trained Clinical Herbalist with knowledge in herbs, vitamins, nutrition, Bach Flowers, Reiki, and Reconnective Healing. }} * {{buy | name=Pemberton Distillery | alt= | url=https://www.pembertondistillery.com/ | email=info@pembertondistillery.ca | address=1954 Venture Pl | lat=50.315708 | long=-122.725941 | directions=15 min east of Pemberton proper in the Pemberton Industrial Park adjacent to Mount Currie | phone=+1 604-894-0222 | tollfree= | fax=+1 888-894-3676 | hours=Retail shop and tastings: F-Sa noon-6PM; Tours: Sa 4PM | price= | lastedit=2017-10-07 | content=Local maker of spirits and some non-alcoholic mixers. They're most noted for their Schramm Organic Potato Vodka, made out of local "Pemby" spuds, gin, absinthe, whiskey and fruit liqueurs, which is available on-site and served at some local establishments in Whistler and Pemberton. Tastings and tours available; call ahead. During summer, also at Pemberton Farmers Market, the Barn in downtown, W 3:30–6:30PM. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=North Arm Farm | url=https://www.northarmfarm.com/ | email= | address=1888 Hwy 99 | lat=50.30869 | long=-122.74110 | directions=5 km east of the McDonalds & PetroCan gas station | phone=+1 604-894-5379 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-6PM daily | price=Coffee $2.15, sandwiches $6-10, baked goods $2-5 |lastedit=2023-03-09| content=Local farm with a produce shop and bakery. They sell their own organic produce and produce and cheese from other BC farms. There is also a lunch menu with home-made sandwiches. }} * {{eat |name=Mile One Eating House |alt=Mile One |address=107-7330 Arbutus Street |lat=50.317986 |long=-122.798798 |directions=under the red clock tower & across from the Petro-Canada gas station at the junction of Portage Rd and Hwy 99. Frontage on Portage Rd at the Pemberton Gateway Village Suites Hotel Building |phone=+1 604-384-3842 |fax= |email= |url=https://www.mileoneeatinghouse.com/ |hours=Tu-Su 11AM-9PM-ish |price=Moderate prices |lastedit=2023-03-09|content=Not fast food, but fast slow food. Independently owned and operated, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. The cuisine is "100 mile" inspired, with local natural beef and potatoes from the Valley, buns from the bakery across the street, Ocean Wise tuna caught off the Coast, and BC cheeses and veggies. WiFi hotspot. }} * {{eat | name=BlackBird Bakery | alt= | url=https://www.blackbirdbread.com/ | email=info@blackbirdbread.com | address=7424 Frontier St | lat=50.321383 | long=-122.806208 | directions=Hidden in the old train station | phone=+1 604-894-6226 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 6AM-6PM, Su 7AM-5PM | price=Moderate prices | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=Croissants, cinnamon buns, freshly baked breads. Fresh roasted and ground coffees. There's a small comfy couch in back and a small south facing terrace. WiFi hotspot. }} * {{eat |name=Mount Currie Coffee Company |alt= Mount Currie Coffee |comment= |address=2-7331 Arbutus St |directions= beside Pemberton Gateway Village Suites Hotel, 1st right off Hwy 99 entering Village |lat=50.31807 |long=-122.79890 |phone=+1 604-894-3388 |fax= |email=info@mountcurriecoffee.com |url=https://mountcurriecoffee.com/ |hours=6:30AM–6PM |price=Moderate prices |lastedit=2023-03-09|content=Local favourite for coffee, gelato and paninis. Sit outside in the covered all weather patio. WiFi hotspot. }} * {{eat | name= BackCountry Pizza | alt= | url=https://www.backcountrypizza.ca/ | email= | address=104-1436 Portage Road |lat=50.31768 |long=-122.79965 | directions=Hidden under the water tower at Portage Place. Turn off Hwy 99 at the 1st & only traffic light. Diagonal corner from Pemberton Gateway Village Suites Hotel. Across the street from Arbutus | phone=+1 604-384-1888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Daily approx 10AM-10PM | price=moderate | lastedit=2015-08-25 | content=Small south facing terrace. Great pizza by the slice. Eat at the small counter or take out. A local favourite. }} * {{eat | name=Portage Station Restaurant | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/PortageStation | email=paul@pembertonrestaurant.com | address=1436 Pemberton Portage Road | lat=50.317782 | long=-122.79971 | directions=also hidden under the water tower at Portage Place; turn off BC Hwy 99 at the 1st & only traffic light. Diagonal corner from Pemberton Gateway Village Suites Hotel, across the street from Arbutus | phone=+1 604-894-1100 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 8AM-9PM | price= | lastedit=2017-08-01 | content=2 patios & a long sit up bar. Great Local craft beer selection. Breakfast menu includes Eggs Benedict. }} * {{eat | name=Pemberton Valley Supermarket | alt= | url=https://www.pembertonsupermarket.com/ | email= | address=7438 Prospect St | lat=50.322813 | long=-122.807416 | directions= | phone=+1 (604) 894-3663 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 8AM–9PM | price= | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=If you are cooking on your own, this is a quite serviceable place to get a full line of groceries and fresh produce. There is a nice deli at the front offering hot meals and sandwiches. }} * {{eat | name=Sunstone Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://www.sunstonegolfclub.com/menu | email=info@pembertongolf.com | address=1730 Airport Road | lat=50.300474 | long=-122.749817 | directions=in the clubhouse of the Meadows at Pemberton | phone=+1 604-894-6197 ext 5 | tollfree=+1-800-390-4653 | fax= | hours=Summers; reduced hours spring, fall; closed winter | price=Entrées $14-24 | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=Meals in a beautiful green setting surrounded by high mountains. In summer, the open, high-roofed deck is insanely pleasant. Watch incoming aircraft fly by low on their approach to nearby Runway 06. Satisfactory vegetarian options. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Pemberton Valley Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.pembertonvalleylodge.com/ | email= | address=1490 Portage Rd | lat=50.315082 | long=-122.79283 | directions= | phone=+1 604-894-2000 | tollfree=+1-877-894-2800 | fax= | hours= | price=$160-390 | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2023-03-09| content=All-suite hotel (units range from studio room to two bedroom), contemporary, lodge-style atmosphere. Outdoor hot tub with 360⁰ mountain view. }} *{{sleep | name=Nairn Falls Provincial Campground| alt= | url=https://bcparks.ca/nairn-falls-park/ | email=info@seatoskyparks.com | address= Highway 99 | lat=50.29611 | long=-122.81899 | directions= 3 km south of town on Hwy 99 | phone=+1 604-986-9371 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Quiet hours are 10PM to 7AM | price= |lastedit=2023-03-09| content=Seasonal, bookings for busy summer weekends are best made months in advance, 1/2 the spots may be booked in advance on line the rest 1st come 1st serve on site. }} * {{sleep | name=Greenwood Country Inn | alt= | url=https://greenwoodcountryinn.com/ | email=greenwoodcountryinn@gmail.com | address=1371 Greenwood Street | lat=50.323773 | long=-122.809476 | directions=northwest of the Frontier Street shopping district, via Aster Street and Dogwood Street; go to the circle at the end of Greewood Street | phone=+1 604-894-5607 | tollfree=+1-877-977-5607 | fax= | checkin=4PM | checkout=11AM | price=$100-$195/night, double occupancy; breakfast $15/person | lastedit=2017-07-23 | content=This friendly, comfortable B&B is a delightful base for adventures in Pemberton. Margit, the innkeeper, is helpful and accommodating. And, she makes a mean breakfast. Most rooms have access to a kitchenette, which gives you the flexibility of self-catering or enjoying her delicious-breakfast. Free Wi-fi. No smoking. One room can accommodate a small pet. }} == Cope == * {{Listing|name=Pemberton Health Centre|url=https://www.vch.ca/en/location/pemberton-health-centre|address=1403 Portage Rd|lat=50.32109|long=-122.80441|phone=+1 604-894-6939|hours=Daily 8:30 AM - 8:30 PM|lastedit=2023-04-02|content=Provides emergency care during operating hours. Emergency care is also available in [[Whistler]] with somewhat longer operating hours and the nearest hospital with an emergency department operating 24/7 is in [[Squamish]].}} ==Go next== * [[Bridge River Valley]] - remote area to the north * [[Whistler]] - skiing resort community {{routebox | placename=Pemberton | image1=BC-99.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Cache Creek]] | minorl1=[[Lillooet]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Vancouver]] | minorr1=[[Whistler]] }} {{geo|50.320278|-122.805278}} {{IsPartOf|Sea to Sky}} {{usablecity}} 0b1ar4hjiyjhf6xpj4doa1y2vttykg7 0 27969 5091215 5081440 2025-07-11T06:13:53Z 92.16.117.116 5091215 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Kietlice banner.jpg}} {{otheruses}} [[File:Ayuntamiento Principal, Gdansk, Polonia, 2013-05-20, DD 01.jpg|thumbnail|right|[[Gdańsk]]]] [[File:Wieliczka salt mine.jpg|thumbnail|right|Wieliczka salt mine]] '''Poland''' ([[Polish phrasebook|Polish]]: ''Polska'') has a rich and eventful history, and a strong basis for its bourgeoning tourism industry. As one of Europe's most underrated countries, it offers a fair share of countryside, vibrant urbanity, pristine beauty and a culture in connection to its thousand-year history. Its heritage is reflected in its architecture, museums, galleries and monuments. Its landscape is varied, and extends from the [[Baltic Sea]] coast in the north to the Tatra Mountains in the south. In between, lush primeval forests are home to fascinating species of animals including bison in [[Białowieża]]; beautiful lakes and rivers for various water-sports, the best known of which are in [[Warmińsko-Mazurskie]]; rolling hills; flat plains; and deserts. Among Poland's cities you can find the perfectly preserved Gothic old town of [[Toruń]], Hanseatic heritage in [[Gdańsk]] and evidence of the 19th-century industrial boom in [[Łódź]]. Creative and enterprising, Poles continually come up with various ideas for events and festivals, and new buildings and institutions spring up almost before your eyes, so that every time you come back, you are bound to discover something new. ==Regions== {{Mapframe|52|19|zoom=6|staticmap=Poland regions travel map revised (Edited).png|width=500|height=550}} {{nowrap|Poland's administrative}} regions are called ''województwa'', abbreviated "''woj.''". The word is translated as ''voivodeship'' or ''province''. {{Regionlist |region1name=Central Poland |region1color=#bf97bf |region1items=[[Łódzkie]], [[Mazowieckie]] |region1description=Central Poland is focused on the capital city of [[Warsaw]], and [[Łódź]] which has a rich textile manufacturing and film-making heritage |region2name=Southern Poland |region2color=#629fc7 |region2items= [[Śląskie]], [[Opolskie]] |region2description=Home to spectacular mountain ranges, the world's oldest operating salt mines, fantastic landscapes, caves, historical monuments and cities. The magnificent medieval city of [[Kraków]] is Poland's most-visited destination. |region3name=Southwestern Poland |region3color=#d8a661 |region3items=[[Dolnośląskie]] |region3description=Colorful mixture of different landscapes. One of the warmest regions in Poland with the very popular, dynamic city of [[Wrocław]]. Within this region you will find Polish, German and Czech heritage. |region4name=Northwestern Poland |region4color=#71b37b |region4items=[[Lubuskie]], [[Wielkopolskie]], [[Zachodniopomorskie]] |region4description=A varied landscape, profusion of wildlife, bird-watcher's paradise and inland dunes. Its heritage is shaped by centuries as part of Germany. |region5name=Northern Poland |region5color=#dc858d |region5items=[[Kujawsko-Pomorskie]], [[Pomorskie]], [[Warmińsko-Mazurskie]] |region5description=Home to Poland's attractive seaside; sandy beaches with dunes and cliffs; lakes, rivers and forests. |region6name=Eastern Poland |region6color=#d5dc76 |region6items=[[Lubelskie]], [[Podkarpackie]], [[Świętokrzyskie]], [[Podlaskie]], [[Małopolskie]] |region6description=Very green area filled with lakes. It offers unspoiled nature and the possibility of camping in beautiful countryside. Unique primeval forests and picturesque rivers (e.g. Biebrza river) with protected bird species make the region increasingly interesting for tourists. }} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54158|fill=#bf97bf|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Łódzkie]], Central Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54169|fill=#bf97bf|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Mazowieckie]], Central Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54159|fill=#6698bb|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Małopolskie]], Southern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54181|fill=#6698bb|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Śląskie]], Southern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54150|fill=#d8a661|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Dolnośląskie]], Southwestern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54171|fill=#d8a661|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Opolskie]], Southwestern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54157|fill=#83bd8c|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Lubuskie]], Northwestern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54187|fill=#83bd8c|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Wielkopolskie]], Northwestern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54188|fill=#83bd8c|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Zachodniopomorskie]], Northwestern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54153|fill=#dc858d|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Kujawsko-Pomorskie]], Northern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54180|fill=#dc858d|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Pomorskie]], Northern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54184|fill=#dc858d|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Warmińsko-Mazurskie]], Northern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54155|fill=#d5dc76|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Lubelskie]], Eastern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54175|fill=#d5dc76|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Podkarpackie]], Eastern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54183|fill=#d5dc76|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Świętokrzyskie]], Eastern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54177|fill=#d5dc76|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Podlaskie]], Eastern Poland}} {{clear|right}} ==Cities== [[File:Wroclaw - Uniwersytet Wroclawski o poranku.jpg|thumbnail|right|[[Wrocław]]]] <!--before adding new cities here, please discuss first on the Talk page--> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Warsaw]]|url=|lat=52.229875|long=21.011654|wikidata=Q270}} (''Warszawa'') — capital of Poland, and one of the EU's thriving new business centres; the old town, nearly completely destroyed during World War II, has been rebuilt in a style inspired by classicist paintings of Canaletto. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Gdańsk]]|url=|lat=54.351991|long=18.646354|wikidata=Q1792}} — the former German city of Danzig is one of the old, beautiful European cities, rebuilt after World War II. It is a great departure point to the many sea resorts along the Baltic coast. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Katowice]]|url=|lat=50.264443|long=19.023717|wikidata=Q588}} — central district of the Upper Silesian Metropolis, both an important commercial hub and a centre of culture. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kraków]]|url=|lat=50.061734|long=19.937302|wikidata=Q31487}} — the "cultural capital" of Poland and its historical capital in the Middle Ages; its centre is filled with old churches, monuments, the largest European medieval market-place - and now with trendy pubs and art galleries. Its city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lublin]]|url=|lat=51.247795|long=22.567639|wikidata=Q37333}} — the biggest city in Eastern Poland, it has a well-preserved old town with typical Polish architecture, along with unusual Renaissance elements. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Łódź]]|url=|lat=51.759008|long=19.455704|wikidata=Q580}} — once renowned for its textile industries, the "Polish Manchester" has the longest walking street in Europe, Piotrkowska Street, full of picturesque 19th-century architecture. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Poznań]]|url=|lat=52.406244|long=16.925646|wikidata=Q268}} — the merchant city, considered to be the birthplace of the Polish nation and church (along with [[Gniezno]]); presents a mixture of architecture from all ''epoques''. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Szczecin]]|url=|lat=53.427715|long=14.552327|wikidata=Q393}} — the most important city of Pomerania with an enormous harbour, monuments, old parks and museums. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Wrocław]]|url=|lat=51.110113|long=17.033416|wikidata=Q1799}} — an old Silesian city with great history; built on 12 islands, it has more bridges than any other European town except Venice, Amsterdam and Hamburg. [[File:Białowieski Park Narodowy03 23a.jpg|thumbnail|right|Bison in [[Białowieża National Park]]]] ==Other destinations== <!--before adding new destinations here, please discuss first on the Talk page--> *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Auschwitz|Auschwitz-Birkenau]]|url=|lat=50.035833|long=19.178333|wikidata=Q7341}} — An infamous complex of German Nazi extermination and slave labour camps that became the centre of the Holocaust of Jews during World War II. [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/31 UNESCO World Heritage Site]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Białowieża National Park]]|url=|lat=52.752128|long=23.879128|wikidata=Q6870388}} — a huge area of ancient woodland straddling the border with [[Belarus]]. [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/33 UNESCO World Heritage Site]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bory Tucholskie National Park]]|url=|lat=53.4358|long=17.303|wikidata=Q1619225}} — national park protecting the Tucholskie Forests. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kalwaria Zebrzydowska]]|url=|lat=49.866667|long=19.683333|wikidata=Q389860}} — monastery in the Beskids from 1600 with Mannerist architecture and a Stations of the Cross complex. [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/905 UNESCO World Heritage Site]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Karkonosze National Park]]|url=|lat=50.766667|long=15.65|wikidata=Q621423}} — national park in the [[Sudety]] around the Śnieżka Mountain with beautiful waterfalls. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Malbork]]|url=|lat=54.033333|long=19.05|wikidata=Q146820}} — home to the Malbork Castle, the beautiful huge Gothic castle made of brick and the largest one in Europe. [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/847 UNESCO World Heritage Site]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Słowiński National Park]]|url=|lat=54.703333|long=17.306944|wikidata=Q1572525}} — national park next to the Baltic Sea with the biggest dunes in Europe. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Wieliczka|Wieliczka Salt Mine]]|url=|lat=49.983039|long=20.055731|wikidata=Q472621}} — the oldest still existing enterprise worldwide, this salt mine has been exploited continuously since the 13th century. A UNESCO World Heritage Site. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Wielkopolski National Park]]|url=|lat=52.266667|long=16.783333|wikidata=Q101635}} — national park in Greater Poland protecting the wildlife of the Wielkopolskie Lakes. == Understand == {{quickbar|location=Poland_in_European_Union.svg}} Poland is located at the very centre of Europe with an area of 322,575 km². Poland's western regions, including large parts of [[Lower Silesia]], [[Lubuskie]] and [[Zachodniopomorskie]], were parts of neighbouring [[Germany]] at different periods of time. The natural border of mountain ridges separating Poland from its southern neighbours, the [[Czech Republic]] and [[Slovakia]], did not stop the cultural influence (and periodic warring). In the Middle Ages, Poland was part of a powerful Commonwealth with [[Lithuania]] that governed much of today's [[Belarus]] and [[Ukraine]]. The cultural evidence of it can be found closer to the present-day borders. Lastly, the entire eastern half of Poland used to be controlled by the Russian Empire, and there was a strong Soviet influence during the communist era, leaving behind many traces in both culture and built heritage. Poland has a very homogeneous society in terms of ethnicity, language and religion. The historical Republics of Poland, whose boundaries were very different from those of today, were very multi-cultural, and, for a period, Poland was known as Europe's most religiously tolerant. Poland held Europe's largest Jewish population, which was all but wiped out by the Holocaust of World War II. After the war the survivors were persecuted by the anti-Semitic communist government into leaving the country. Despite losing a third of its population during World War II, including a disproportionally large part of its elites, and suffering many economic setbacks as a Soviet satellite state afterwards, Poland in many ways flourished culturally in the 20th century. Paving the way for its fellow Eastern bloc states, Poland had a painful transition to democracy and capitalism in the late 1980s and 1990s. In the 21st century, Poland joined the [[European Union]] and has enjoyed continuous economic growth unlike any other EU country. This has allowed it to markedly improve its infrastructure and had a profound effect on its society. === History === [[File:02860 Kraków, zespół Wzgórza Wawelskiego.jpg|thumbnail|right|[[Kraków]] was the capital of Poland through most of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance]] ==== Early history ==== {{seealso|Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth}} [[File:Man in old town.jpg|thumbnail|right|King Sigismund II Vasa moved the country's capital to [[Warsaw]] in 1596]] Oldest continuously existing cities in Poland: [[Kalisz]] and [[Elbląg]] on the [[Amber Road]] to the Baltic Sea, were mentioned by Roman writers in the first century AD; while the first known settlement in Poland, [[Biskupin]], dates back to the 7th century BC. However, various Polish tribes have arrived in Poland only after 6th century AD. Mieszko I was the first common ruler of these tribes, uniting Poland in the second half of the 10th century, and adopted Catholicism as the state religion in 966 AD. First Piasts ruled from their home city of [[Gniezno]], however a century of civil unrest and destruction brought by wars forced them to move to less damaged [[Kraków]], which remained capital city of Poland for half a millennium. Poland experienced its golden age from the 14th to the 16th century, under the reign of King Casimir the Great and the Jagiellonian Dynasty, whose rule extended from the Baltic to the Black and Adriatic seas. In the 16th century, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth was the largest country in Europe; the country attracted many immigrants, including Germans, Jews, Armenians and Dutch, because of the freedom of confession guaranteed by the state and the atmosphere of religious tolerance, which was exceptional in Europe at the time of the Holy Inquisition. Under the rule of the Vasa Dynasty, the capital was moved to [[Warsaw]] in 1596. During the 17th and the 18th centuries, the nobility increasingly asserted its independence from the monarchy; combined with several exhausting wars, this greatly weakened the Commonwealth. Responding to the need for reform, Poland passed a constitution in 1791 that was a key reform among many progressive but belated attempts to strengthen the country during the second half of the 18th century. ==== Partitions and regaining independence ==== With the country in political disarray, various sections of Poland were occupied by its neighbours – [[Russian Empire|Russia]], [[Prussia]] (later [[German Empire|Germany]]) and [[Austro-Hungarian Empire|Austria]] – in three coordinated "partitions" of 1772 and 1793, and 1795. After the last partition and a failed uprising, Poland ceased to exist as a country for 123 years. However, this long period of foreign domination was met with fierce resistance. During the [[Napoleonic Wars]], a semi-autonomous Duchy of Warsaw arose, before being erased from the map again in 1813. Further uprisings ensued, such as the 29 November uprising of 1830–1831 (mainly in Russian Poland), the 1848 Revolution (mostly in Austrian and Prussian Poland), and 22 January 1863. Throughout the occupation, Poles retained their sense of national identity, and kept fighting the subjugation of the three occupying powers. [[Image:Warszawa - Plac Saski z lotu ptaka (1919).jpg|thumb|right|Warsaw in 1919]] Poland returned to the map of Europe with the end of [[World War I]], regaining its independence on November 11, 1918. In 1920–1921, the newly-reborn country got into territorial disputes with Czechoslovakia and, especially, the antagonistic and newly communist Soviet Russia with which it fought a war. This was further complicated by a hostile Weimar Germany to the west, which strongly resented the annexation of portions of its eastern Prussian territories, and the detachment of German-speaking Danzig (contemporary [[Gdańsk]]) as a free city. ====World War II==== [[World War II in Europe]] began with a coordinated attack on Poland's borders by the [[Soviet Union]] from the east and Nazi Germany from the west and north. Only a few days prior to the start of the war, the Soviet Union and Germany had signed a secret pact of non-aggression, which called for the re-division of the central and eastern European nations. Germany attacked Poland on 1 September 1939 and the Soviet Union attacked Poland on 17 September 1939, effectively starting the fourth partition. These harmonised invasions caused the re-established Polish Republic to cease to exist. Hitler used the issue of Danzig ([[Gdańsk]]) as a pretext to invade Poland, much as he used the "Sudetenland Question" to conquer Czechoslovakia. Many of World War II's most infamous war crimes were committed by the Nazis and Soviets on Polish territory, with the former committing the majority of them. Polish civilians opposed to either side's rule were ruthlessly rounded up, tortured, and executed. Nazi Germany established concentration and [[Holocaust remembrance|extermination camps]] on Polish soil, where many millions of Europeans — including about 90% of Poland's long-standing Jewish population and thousands of local [[Roma culture in Europe|Romanies]] (Gypsies) — were murdered; of these [[Auschwitz]] is the most infamous. The Nazis murdered about three million Polish Jews and about the same number of Polish non-Jews — not only people who actively opposed the Nazi occupation, but also people more or less randomly rounded up. Part of the Nazis' strategy was to attempt to annihilate all Polish intelligentsia and potential future leadership, the better to absorb Poland into Germany, so thousands of Polish Catholic priests and intellectuals were summarily murdered. For their part, the Soviets rounded up and executed the cream of the crop of Polish leadership in the part of Poland they occupied in the [[Katyń]] Massacre of 1940. About 22,000 Polish military and political leaders, business owners, and intelligentsia were murdered in the massacre, approved by the Soviet Politburo, including by Joseph Stalin and Lavrentiy Beria. The Soviets also murdered about 150,000 ordinary Poles and deported another 1,700,000 to Siberia between 1939 and 1941. World War II shattered and battered the country — Poland lost nearly 30% of its population, nearly all of its important cities were destroyed, lost control of significant portions of its territory, and was left impoverished and bankrupt. Following the war, Poland found itself compelled to assume the role of a Soviet satellite nation due to the Yalta and Potsdam agreements forged between the Western Allies and the Soviet Union. These historical junctures continue to be perceived by a significant number of Poles as a profound act of treachery carried out by the Allies. The inhabitants native to the former Polish regions in the east, which were subsequently annexed by the Soviet Union, were forcibly expelled, making way for the displaced German populations from the western and northern regions of the country. This forced displacement resulted in the uprooting of over 10 million individuals and served to impede the process of reconciliation between Poland and Germany. For a comprehensive understanding of the broader context, one can refer to the dynamics of [[Cold War Europe]]. [[File:Dvorec kultury i nauki.jpg|thumb|[[Warsaw]]'s Palace of Culture and Science is perhaps the most prominent monument to the communist era in Poland]] ====Communism (People's Republic of Poland)==== [[File:Kozłówka Palace - Gallery of socrealism - 05.JPG|thumbnail|right|Visit the museum in Kozłówka to experience a panoply of preserved socrealist monuments, ornaments and artwork.]] After World War II, Poland was forced to become a socialist republic. Between 1945 and 1953, pro-Stalinist leaders conducted periodic purges. In particular, members of the Polish Home Army and other partisan organizations that had opposed both Soviet and German domination of Poland were executed in large numbers. There were also pogroms after the war; the most notorious was the 1946 Kielce pogrom, which was allegedly incited by Joseph Stalin's NKVD secret police, though based on the traditional Christian blood libel against Jews and with very weak condemnation, at best, from Polish cardinals. The result of the pogroms and subsequent antisemitic policies of the communist government was that most Jewish survivors of Nazi persecution emigrated, effectively ending centuries of strong Jewish presence in the cultural and ethnic fabric of Poland. After the bloody Stalinist era of 1945–1953, Poland was tolerant and progressive in comparison to other Eastern Bloc countries. But strong economic growth in the post-war period alternated with serious recessions in 1956, 1970, and 1976, which resulted in labour turmoil over dramatic inflation and shortages of goods. Ask older Poles to tell you about the impoverished Poland of the Communist era and you'll often hear stories of empty store shelves where sometimes the only thing available for purchase was vinegar. You'll hear stories about back room deals to get meat or bread, such as people trading things at the post office just to get ham for a special dinner, or religious services held secretly in basements. During this dark period Catholic Church would become a refuge for many Poles as the sole institution that could resist the Communists. In 1978 a Polish cardinal, Karol Wojtyła, was elected as Pope of the Catholic Church, assuming the name John Paul II. He was an avid traveller and visited Poland nine times during his papacy (three of these during the Communist era). These visits were very popular, drawing millions of people to the streets to celebrate. This damaged the formally atheist Communist party as it had to cater to the Church demands.The role of both the Catholic Church and John Paul II makes them very important to most Poles, especially those who lived through the Communist era. In 1980, the anti-communist trade union, "[http://www.solidarnosc.org.pl/en/ Solidarity]" (Polish: ''Solidarność''), became the major driving force in a strong opposition movement, organizing labour strikes, and demanding freedom of the press and democratic representation. The communist government responded by imposing martial law from 1981 to 1983. During this period, the country again suffered from widespread poverty, thousands of people were detained, phone calls were monitored by the government, independent organizations not aligned with the Communists were deemed illegal and members were arrested, access to roads was restricted, the borders were sealed, ordinary industries were placed under military management, and workers who failed to follow orders faced the threat of a military court. Solidarity was the most famous of various organizations which were criminalized, and its members faced the possibility of losing their jobs and imprisonment. However, the heavy-handed repression and resulting economic disaster greatly weakened the role of the Communist Party. Solidarity was eventually legalized again, and shortly thereafter led the country to its first free elections in 1989, in which the communist government was finally removed from power. This inspired a succession of peaceful anti-communist revolutions throughout the Warsaw Pact bloc. [[File:Stary Browar down panorama 2007-06.jpg|thumbnail|right|Newfound economic freedom and EU membership has enabled cities like [[Poznań]] to flourish.]] ====Contemporary Poland (Third Republic of Poland)==== Nowadays, Poland is a democratic country with a stable and robust economy. It has been a member of NATO since 1999 and the [[European Union]] since 2004. The country's stability was underscored by the fact that the tragic deaths of the President and a large number of political, business and civic leaders in a plane crash in 2010 did not have an appreciable negative effect on the Polish currency or economic prospects. Poland has also joined the [[Travelling around the Schengen Area|Schengen Agreement]], with an open border to Germany, Lithuania, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Poland's dream of rejoining Europe as an independent nation at peace and in mutual respect with its neighbours has finally been achieved. However rural Poland and the smaller towns have been in decline since the 1990s due to migrants leaving the countryside looking for better jobs in the main cities like Warsaw or Krakow. In 2015–2023, Poland was ruled by the controversial Law and Justice party, which came into conflict with the [[European Union|EU]] on ''rule of law'' issues. The party remained the biggest party in the elections of 2023, but an opposition coalition (with 54% of votes) managed to form the new government. [[File:Stół wielkanocny 1.jpg|thumbnail|right|Easter is the time when Polish people can indulge in baking homemade cakes and then eating them!]] ===Holidays=== [[File:003 Weihnachtskrippe in der Sanoker Franziskanerkirche, 2013.jpg|thumbnail|right|Visit Polish churches during Christmastime to experience elaborate nativity scenes]] On public holidays, which including many Catholic holidays and important anniversaries, most service and retail outlets, other companies, museums, galleries, other attractions and public administration units, close entirely. Plan ahead for shopping, services or official business. Places to eat, gas stations and pharmacies generally remain open. Some small and almost all ''Żabka'' neighbourhood convenience stores stay open, but many may have shortened opening hours. In smaller towns and villages, the local gas station can be your only resort. Most means of public transport will run according to their Sunday schedule on public holidays, usually meaning less frequent operations. Some connections, e.g. peak bus lines, do not operate on such days entirely ("Sunday service"). If a public holiday falls on a Tuesday or Thursday, many Poles take a day off on the Monday preceding or Friday following to have a long weekend, so many companies and public administration units close on those days as well. Roads and trains may become congested on the days long weekends start or end. In tourist destinations, prices may rise and accommodation may be booked out long in advance. On the other hand, large cities often become relatively deserted. Catholic religious holidays are widely celebrated in Poland and many provide colourful and interesting festivities and include local traditions. Most of the population, especially in smaller towns and villages, will go to church on those days and participate in them. For Christmas and Easter, it is customary to join one's family for celebratory meals and gatherings that often bring together family members from far away, so many Poles will travel to their home towns or families out of their place of residence. Having celebratory dinners in restaurants is very rare, although many hotels and restaurants would offer Christmas and Easter meals. * '''New Year's Day''' (''Nowy Rok'') …. '''1 January''' is a public holiday, with celebrations taking place around midnight. * '''Epiphany''' (''Święto Trzech Króli'' or ''Objawienie Pańskie'') — '''6 January''' - is the first day of the carnival period. In many Polish cities, merry parades are organised to commemorate the biblical Wise Men. * '''Easter''' (''Wielkanoc'' or ''Niedziela Wielkanocna'') — scheduled according to the moon calendar, usually in March or April. Like Christmas, it is primarily a meaningful Christian holiday. On the Saturday before Easter, churches offer special services in anticipation of the holiday, including blessing of food; children bring baskets of painted eggs and candy to be blessed. On Easter Sunday, practicing Catholics go to the morning mass, followed by a celebratory breakfast made of foods blessed the day before. On Easter Sunday, shops, malls, and restaurants are commonly closed. * '''Lany Poniedziałek''', or '''Śmigus Dyngus''' — a public holiday on the '''Monday after Easter''', and also a holiday. It's the day of an old tradition with pagan roots: groups of kids and teens wander around, looking to soak each other with water. Often groups of boys will try to catch groups of girls, and vice versa; but innocent passers-by are not exempt from the game, and are expected to play along. Water guns and water balloons are common, but children, especially outdoors and in the countryside, use buckets and have no mercy on passers-by. (Drivers - this means keep your windows wound up or you're likely to get soaked.) * '''Labour Day''' (''Święto Pracy'') — '''1 May''' is a public holiday as well. Politically inspired parades and rallies are often organized, especially in larger cities, and it is best to avoid them as opposing political factions often collide and police will usually close off the area where parades and rallies are held. Combined with May 3 (see below), this holiday provides for a surefire long weekend in most years and will see many Poles enjoy a holiday outside of their hometowns. * '''Constitution Day''' (''Święto Konstytucji Trzeciego Maja'') — '''3 May''', celebrated in remembrance of the Constitution of 3 May 1791. The document was a highly progressive attempt at political reform, and it was Europe's first constitution (and world's second, after the US). Following the partitions, the original constitution became a highly poignant symbol of national identity and ideals. * '''Pentecost''' (''Zesłanie Ducha Świętego'' or ''Zielone Świątki'') — movable feast, celebrated '''7 weeks after Easter''', which is always on a '''Sunday'''. It is a relatively low-key religious holiday. Since this is a Sunday, it may make little difference in some cases, but in case of establishments normally open on Sundays you may find them closed on that day. The second day (Monday) is not a public holiday and not widely celebrated in Poland. * '''The Feast of Corpus Christi''' (''Boże Ciało'') — celebrated on the '''Thursday''' after Trinity Sunday, or '''sixty days after Easter'''. It is celebrated across the country; in smaller locations virtually the whole village or town becomes involved in a procession, and all traffic is stopped as the procession weaves its way through the streets. * '''Assumption''' (''Wniebowzięcie Najświętszej Marii Panny'') coinciding with ''Day of the Polish Military'' ('''Święto Wojska Polskiego''') — '''15 August''', commemorating the victory of the Polish Army over the invading Soviet (Red) Army in the Battle of Warsaw. The victory was attributed by the religious to the influence of the Virgin Mary. The day is marked with Catholic religious festivities and military parades. * '''All Saints Day''' (''Wszystkich Świętych'') — '''1 November'''. In the afternoon people visit graves of their relatives and light candles. After dusk cemeteries glow with thousands of lights and offer a very picturesque scene. If you have the chance, visit a cemetery to witness the holiday. Many restaurants, bars and cafés will either be closed or close earlier than usual on this holiday. * '''Independence Day''' (''Narodowe Święto Niepodległości'') — '''11 November''', celebrated to commemorate Poland's independence in 1918, after 123 years of partitions and occupation by Austria, Prussia and Russia. Some somber official celebrations, and another slew of politically-inspired rallies are bound to be held. There are also big patriotic demonstrations and marches in larger cities, especially in Warsaw, where over 100,000 people participate in the salt marsh soil of the Independence. It is calm and many foreigners participate in it. * '''Christmas Eve''' (''Wigilia Bożego Narodzenia'' or simply ''Wigilia'') — '''24 December''' is the year's most important feast for Poles. According to Catholic tradition, celebration of liturgical feasts starts in the evening of the preceding day (a vigil, hence ''wigilia''). In Polish folklore, this translates into a special family dinner, which traditionally calls for a twelve-course meatless meal (representing the twelve apostles), which is supposed to begin in the evening, after the first star can be spotted in the night sky. It is also a Polish tradition to not leave anybody alone on Christmas Eve, so Polish people tend to be extremely hospitable on the evening and on many occasions will invite their lonely friends to participate in the traditional dinner. It is also acceptable to ask your friends if you could join them if you're alone. There's also a tradition of Midnight Mass on that day (''Pasterka''), when Christmas carols are sung. * '''Christmas''' (''Boże Narodzenie'') — ''' 25 and 26 December'''. On Christmas Day people usually stay home and enjoy meals and meetings with families and sometimes close friends. Everything apart from essential services will be closed and public transport will be severely limited. * '''New Year's Eve''' (''Sylwester'') — '''31 December''' is ''not'' a public holiday, but many businesses will close early. Pretty much all hotels, restaurants, bars and clubs will host special balls or parties, requiring previous reservations and carrying hefty price tags. In cities, free open-air parties with live music and firework displays are organized by the authorities on central squares. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.poland.travel/en/ Polish Tourism Organisation website] ==Talk== {{see also|Polish phrasebook}} The official language of Poland is '''Polish'''. Virtually all official information is in Polish only, including street signs, directions, information signs, etc., as well as schedules and announcements at train and bus stations. Airports and a few major train stations usually do have information in English, though. Information signs in museums, churches, etc., signs are typically in multiple languages at popular tourist destinations, elsewhere in Polish only. The vast majority of young people who grew up after the fall of communism know English, usually at a decent level. Older Poles, however, especially those outside the main cities, will speak little or no English. However, it is possible that they speak either [[French]], [[German]] or [[Russian]], taught in schools as the main foreign languages until the 1990s. German remains very common, especially in Western Poland and tourist hotspots like Kraków and Gdańsk. However, speaking Russian to Poles remains a sensitive issue due to over a century of unwanted Russian and Soviet domination, so be sure to begin the conversation in Polish and ask if the person speaks Russian before proceeding, and only use Russian as a last resort. Czech and Slovak are West Slavic languages that share many similarities with Polish; if you speak either of those languages, you will recognise many cognates, and may be able to communicate with locals with some difficulty. People who speak Ukrainian or Belarusian might be able to get the gist of what is being said in Polish, but holding anything more than a basic conversation will be difficult. A few phrases go a long way in Poland. Polish people generally love the few foreigners who learn Polish or at least try to. Younger Poles will also jump at the chance to practise their English. Do your homework and try to learn how to pronounce the names of places. Polish has a very regular pronunciation, and although there are a few sounds unknown to most English speakers, mastering every phoneme is not required to achieve intelligibility; catching the spirit is more important. There are Polish language schools in [[Łódź]], [[Kraków]], [[Wrocław]], [[Sopot]] and [[Warsaw]]. == Get in == === Entry requirements === {{Schengen}} In addition to the ordinary Schengen visa waiver, citizens of [[South Korea]], the [[United States of America|United States]], and [[Israel]] are permitted to spend up to 90 days in Poland without a visa, ''regardless of time spent elsewhere in the Schengen Area.'' Time spent in Poland, however, does count against the time that would be granted by another Schengen country. Regular visas are issued for travellers going to Poland for ''tourism and business purposes''. Regular visas allow for one or multiple entries into Polish territory and a stay in Poland for up to 90 days. They are issued for the definite period of stay. When applying for a visa, please indicate the number of days you plan to spend in Poland and a date of intended arrival. Holders of regular visas are not authorized to work. Ukrainian citizens do not require a separate visa for transit through Poland if they hold a Schengen or a UK visa. [[File:Terminal A Warsaw Chopin Airport.JPG | thumb | 300px | Warsaw Chopin Airport]] === By plane === Most of Europe's major airlines fly to and from Poland. Poland's flag carrier is '''[https://www.lot.com LOT Polish Airlines]''', a member of Star Alliance, operating the Miles&More frequent flyer programme with several other European Star Alliance members. Most other European legacy carriers maintain at least one connection to Poland, and there are also a number of low cost airlines that fly to Poland including [http://wizzair.com WizzAir], [http://easyjet.com EasyJet], [https://www.norwegian.no/ Norwegian] and [http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair]. [[File:LOT - Polish Airlines - Polskie Linie Lotnicze Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner - SP-LRE - Flight LOT45 from WAW (14084309468).jpg | thumb | 300px | LOT is the Polish flag carrier ]] While there are many international airports across Poland, and international air travel is on a constant increase, [[Warsaw]]'s [http://www.lotnisko-chopina.pl/?lang=en Chopin Airport] ({{IATA|WAW}}) remains the country's main international hub. LOT flies e.g. to [[Beijing]], [[Delhi]], [[Toronto]], [[New York City|New York]] and [[Chicago]], while Qatar Airways and Emirates offer flights to their hubs in the Middle East, which allows connecting to their rich international networks. Most European airlines offer a connection to Warsaw, allowing you to take advantage of connecting flights via their hubs. Warsaw is the only city in Poland that has two international airports - Modlin Airport ({{IATA|WMI}}), a converted former military airfield, is close to Warsaw and normally used by low-fare carriers. Other major airports serviced by airlines providing intercontinental connections include [[Kraków]] ({{IATA|KRK}}), [[Katowice]] ({{IATA|KTW}}), [[Gdańsk]] ({{IATA|GDN}}), [[Poznań]] ({{IATA|POZ}}), [[Wrocław]] ({{IATA|WRO}}), [[Rzeszów]] ({{IATA|RZE}}), [[Łódź]] ({{IATA|LCJ}}) (due to proximity to Warsaw Chopin Airport, there are no flights to Warsaw from Łódź) Smaller regional airports offering international flights include: * [[Bydgoszcz]] ({{IATA|BZG}}) * [[Szczecin]] ({{IATA|SZZ}}) (intercontinental connections via Warsaw) * [[Lublin]] ({{IATA|LUZ}}) opened in late 2012, serviced by Wizz Air and Ryanair All of the above airports are also served by low-fare point-to-point carriers, flying to European destinations. The most popular connections out of Poland's regional airports are to the UK, Ireland, Sweden and Norway, where sizeable Polish minorities generate sustainable demand for air traffic. Flights are thus frequent and one can purchase a ticket at a very favorable rate. You can also enter Poland coming from alternative airports: * To the west: [[Berlin#By plane|Berlin]] ({{IATA|BER}}) * To the south-west: [[Dresden#By plane|Dresden]] ({{IATA|DRS}}) and [[Prague#By plane|Prague]] ({{IATA|PRG}}) * To the south: [[Ostrava#By plane|Ostrava]] ({{IATA|OSR}}) and [[Košice#By plane|Košice]] ({{IATA|KSC}}) * To the north-east: [[Vilnius#By plane|Vilnius]] ({{IATA|VNO}}), [[Kaunas#By plane|Kaunas]] ({{IATA|KUN}}) and [[Kaliningrad#By plane|Kaliningrad]] ({{IATA|KGD}}) === By train === [[File:Berlin Warsaw Express.JPG | thumb | 300px | Berlin-Warsaw Express takes 6 hours ]] Poland uses the west European railway gauge and trains rattle across the border from Germany, Czech Republic and Slovakia, with no formalities as these are all Schengen countries. On these routes look out for split-ticket deals, as you may be able to take a cheap local train to a border town then transfer to another (and see the border regions of [[Śląskie]], [[Dolnośląskie]] and [[Opolskie]] for example). The main direct routes are: * [[Berlin]] - [[Frankfurt (Oder)]] - Rzepin - Swiebodzin - Zbaszynek - [[Poznań]] - Konin - Kutno - [[Warsaw]], 4 a day, 6 hr. * [[Berlin]] - [[Frankfurt (Oder)]] - Rzepin - Swiebodzin - Zbaszynek - [[Poznań]] - [[Gniezno]] - Inowroclaw - [[Bydgoszcz]] - Tczew - [[Gdansk]] - [[Gdynia]], one a day, 6 hr. * [[Berlin]] - [[Frankfurt (Oder)]] - Rzepin - [[Zielona Gora]] - Glogow - [[Lubin]] - [[Legnica]] - [[Wrocław]] - [[Opole]] - [[Gliwice]] - Zabrze - [[Katowice]] - [[Kraków]], one daytime and one overnight, 7 hr 30 min. * [[Berlin]] - [[Szczecin]] has two direct services, 2 hr, but usually you change between local trains at Angermünde. * [[Budapest]] - [[Vac]] - Visegrad - [[Szob]] - [[Bratislava]] - Breclav - [[Ostrava]] - Bohumin - Chalupki - Wodislaw - Rybnik - [[Katowice]] - [[Sosnowiec]] - Dabrowa Gornicza - Zawiercie - Wloszczowa Polnoc - Opoczno Poludnie - [[Warsaw]], one daytime train (10 hr) which continues to Terespol (for Belarus), and one overnight (14 hr) terminating in Warsaw. At Katowice a portion of the daytime train splits for Kraków and Przemyśl (for Ukraine). * [[Vienna]] - Breclav then the same route via Ostrava and Katowice to Warsaw, 7 hr 40 min, one daytime train continuing to [[Gdansk]] and [[Gdynia]], and one overnight terminating in Warsaw. There are other connections via Kraków. * [[Prague]] - [[Pardubice]] - [[Olomouc]] - [[Ostrava]] - Bohumin - Chalupki - Wodislaw - Rybnik - [[Katowice]] - Myslowice - Jaworzno Szczakowa - [[Kraków]] - Miechow - Wloszczowa Polnoc - Opoczno Poludnie - [[Warsaw]], one daytime (8 hr 30 min) and one overnight (11 hr). * From Paris or Amsterdam travel via Berlin. The countries to the east all use the broader (Russian-style) gauge, so there is a change of trains and border formalities to factor into the timetable. A western gauge Rail Baltica is being built through the Baltic states and might, just might, be completed some time in the 21st century. * Vilnius - Kaunas - Białystok - Warsaw - Krakow trains run daily: you change at the border but it's a seamless connection. * [[Kyiv]] - Dorohusk - [[Chelm]] - Rejowiec - Trawniki - Swidnik - [[Lublin]] - Naleczow - Pulawy Miasto - Deblin - Pilawa - [[Warsaw]], 16 hr overnight, with daytime connections via [[Lviv]] and [[Przemyśl]]. * Trains from Kaliningrad, Moscow, Smolensk and Minsk no longer cross into Poland. Stations in Poland are relatively small and easy to navigate, though signage is just in Polish. Write down your destination and preferred time to show to ticket clerks, as trains have different prices, and your attempts to pronounce "Wrocław" will likely get you sent to Rouen. They'll show you the price on their calculator or till display, easier to grasp than their reply of ''trzydzieścipięćzłotychczterdzieściproszę!'' Credit cards are usually acceptable. See individual cities for which station to use: "Główny" means main station, but in Warsaw you want Centralna. === By car === You can enter Poland by one of many roads linking Poland with the neighboring countries. Since Poland's entry to the Schengen Zone, checkpoints on border crossings with other EU countries have been removed. However, the queues on the borders with Poland's non-EU neighbors, Ukraine, Belarus and Russia, are still long and in areas congested with truck traffic it can take up to several hours to pass. You can take a look at border wait times on official [https://granica.gov.pl/prognozy.php?v=en site]. === By bus === {{see also|Intercity buses in Europe}} The principal long-distance bus operator to Poland is [https://global.flixbus.com Flixbus]. As of 2021, their direct international routes are: : - from Berlin via BER airport and Poznań, four daily, 8 hr. : - from Munich via Nuremberg, Bayreuth, Chemnitz, Dresden and Wrocław, daily, 17 hr. : - from Tallinn via Riga, Kaunas, Suwałki and Augustów, daily, 17 hr. [https://www.flixbus.com/ FlixBus] and similar big operators are franchises, with real buses with real drivers run by subsidiary local firms. Others are [http://www.eurolines.com Eurolines], [http://www.ecolines.net/ Ecolines] and [http://www.sindbad.pl/ Sindbad]. === By boat === {{see also|Ferries on the Baltic Sea}} * '''From [[Sweden]]''': [[Ystad]] (7–9 hours, 215 zł) by [http://unityline.pl Unity Line]; [[Karlskrona]] (10 hours, 140-220 zł) by [http://www.stenaline.pl Stena Line]; [[Nynäshamn]] (18 hours, 230-270 zł), [[Visby]] (13½ hours, 170 zł), [[Ystad]] (9½ hours, 230 zł) by [https://polferries.pl/ Polferries] * '''From [[Germany]]''': [[Rostock]] (~15 hr) by [http://www.finnlines.com/ Finnlines] * '''With your own boat:''' many Baltic estuaries have marinas, with the largest in [[Szczecin]], [[Łeba]], [[Hel]], [[Gdynia]] and [[Gdańsk]]. Gdańsk has two yacht docks: one next to the old market square ([http://www.marinagdansk.pl/]), which is usually quickly overloaded, and one in the national sailing center next to the city center, close to the Baltic sea. The newest yacht dock is on the longest wooden pier in [http://www.sopot-marina.pl/ Sopot]. Although there are many sailors in Poland, marine infrastructure still needs to be improved. ==Get around== Polish road infrastructure is extensive but generally poorly maintained, and high speed motorways in place are insufficient. However, public transport is quite plentiful and inexpensive: buses and trams in cities, and charter buses and trains for long-distance travel. [[File:Boarding (2564643532).jpg|thumbnail|right|Poland is large enough for domestic flights to be a viable method of travelling]] ===By plane=== LOT Polish Airlines offers domestic flights between Warsaw Chopin Airport and the airports of Kraków, Katowice, Wrocław, Poznań, Szczecin, Gdańsk, Olsztyn (only in summer season), Zielona Góra, Rzeszów and on the route between Kraków and Gdańsk. The best prices are available in booking 60 days in advance. Prices are 60-130 zł. Ryanair offers daily flights from Warsaw Chopin to Gdańsk, Wrocław and Szczecin and on route between Kraków and Gdańsk. Prices start from 9 zł. Connections from Radom to Wrocław and Gdańsk are operated by [http://sprintair.eu/?lang=en Sprint Air]. There are no domestic flights to or from Warsaw Modlin, Łódź, Bydgoszcz and Lublin airports. Every Wednesday, LOT holds a 24 hours ticket sale for return flights originating at Warsaw airport and often some other Polish airports, also including some domestic connections. The discounted flights offered are usually a few months away from the date of sale, and the number of tickets and available dates is restricted, but if you are planning ahead on visiting Poland or other European countries, you may find this offer attractive. === By train === Inter-city routes are operated by [http://pkp.pl PKP] (Polskie Koleje Państwowe). Local routes are operated by Polregio, the brand name of Przewozy Regionalne, hived off from PKP in 2008. There are also several regional rail operators run exclusively by the voivodeships providing regional travel (like [http://www.mazowieckie.com.pl/ Koleje Mazowieckie], [http://koleje-wielkopolskie.com.pl/ Koleje Wielkopolskie], [http://www.arriva.pl/en Arriva RP], [https://www.kolejedolnoslaskie.eu/pl Koleje Dolnośląskie], [http://kolejeslaskie.com/ Koleje Śląskie], and [https://kolejemalopolskie.com.pl/ Koleje Małopolskie]). The principal rail corridors lie on international routes as described in Get in: * From Germany to [[Poznań]] - Konin - Kutno - [[Warsaw]] - Terespol and [[Białystok]] (for Lithuania and Belarus). * [[Gdynia]] - [[Gdansk]] - [[Bydgoszcz]] - Inowroclaw - [[Poznań]] - [[Wrocław]] - [[Katowice]] (for Czech Republic) - [[Kraków]]. * [[Gdynia]] - [[Gdansk]] - [[Warsaw]] - [[Kraków]]. * [[Kraków]] - [[Tarnów]] - [[Rzeszów]] - [[Przemyśl]] (for Ukraine). For example Warsaw-Kraków (every two hours) and Warsaw-Gdansk (hourly) both take under 3 hours. Tickets are cheap by west European standards. A day-trip between Warsaw and Kraków, three hours each way, in 2021 might be 100 złoty or €22. This means limited scope for discounts, but see below. Inter-city trains are modern, comfy and fairly punctual. On local lines there are still a few gnarly O-class trains that look like escapees from a heritage tramway, with old codgers in flat caps sitting on bench seats around the brake handle. ====Train types==== * '''EIP (Express Intercity Premium), EIC (ExpressInterCity), EC (EuroCity), and IC (Intercity)''' - express trains between metro areas, and to major tourist destinations. Reservations are usually required. Power points for laptops are sometimes provided next to the seat. Company: PKP Intercity. * '''TLK (Twoje Linie Kolejowe)''' - discount trains, slower but cheaper than the above. Not many routes, but a very good alternative for budget travelers. Reservations are mandatory for 1st and 2nd class. It uses older carriages that are not always suited to high-speed travel. There are also several night trains connecting southern Poland with the north. Company: PKP Intercity. * '''RE (RegioEkspress)''' - cheaper than TLK and of an even higher standard, but only 3 of these type are running: Lublin - Poznań, Warsaw - Szczecin and Wrocław - Dresden. Company: Przewozy Regionalne. * '''IR (InterRegio)''' - cheaper than TLK and RegioExpress but most routes are supported by poor quality trains. Company: Przewozy Regionalne. * '''REGIO/Osobowy''' - ordinary passenger train; usually slow, stops everywhere. You can also buy a weekend ''turystyczny'' ticket, or a week-long pass. Great if you are not in a hurry, but expect these to be very crowded at times. Company: Przewozy Regionalne; other. * '''Podmiejski''' - suburban commuter train. Varying degrees of comfort and facilities. Tickets need to be bought at station ticket counters. Some companies allow you to buy a ticket on board from the train manager, in the very first compartment. A surcharge will apply. * '''Narrow gauge''' - Poland still retains a number of local narrow-gauged railways. Some of them are oriented towards tourism and operate only in summer or on weekends, while others remain active as everyday municipal rail. See [[Polish narrow gauge railways]]. ====Tickets==== It's probably easiest to buy InterCity tickets on-line (see links below). You can also buy tickets on-line for Regio, RE, IR and TLK. An early booking of the Intercity trains (7/15 days before departure) will be rewarded with additional discount (20/30%). There is also a limited amount of reduced tickets in the EIP/EIC trains. Tickets for any route can generally be purchased at any station. For a foreigner buying tickets, this can prove to be a frustrating experience, since only cashiers at international ticket offices (in major cities) can be expected to speak multiple languages. It is recommended that you buy your train tickets at a travel agency or on-line to avoid communication difficulties and long queues. It may be easier to '''buy in advance''' during peak seasons (e.g. end of holiday period, New Year) for trains that require reserved seating. Tickets bought for E-IC, EC, EXpress, etc. trains are not valid for local/regional trains on the same routes. If you change trains between InterCity and Regional you have to buy a second ticket. * Timetable search [http://rozklad-pkp.pl/?q=en/node/143] (''in English, but station names in Polish'') * [http://www.pkp.pl PKP] information: +48 22 9436, international information +48 22 5116003. * [http://intercity.pl/en/ PKP Intercity] serves express connections. ''Tickets can be bought on-line'' and printed or shown to the conductor on a smart-phone, laptop or similar devices. If you book through the website, a page will appear after you have paid headed "Ticket" that is ''not'' actually the ticket. The ticket must have a QR code and will be found in your email inbox. * [https://bilety.polregio.pl/en/ Polregio (Przewozy Regionalne) tickets] for Regio, RE and IR. * [https://koleo.pl/en/ Koleo] domestic route and ticket search engine across all operators. Smartphone app is available. Tickets can be shown in the app or exported as PDF for storage on other devices or printing. As of April 2022 it is not possible to book sleeper or couchette cars, get those from PKP intercity. * [http://polrail.com/ Polrail Service] offers a guide to rail travel in Poland and on-line purchase of tickets and rail passes for Polish and international trains to neighbouring countries. There's a fee of around 22 zł for every ticket. * [http://polishtrains.eu PolishTrains] allows to search, book and buy train tickets to numerous Polish and European destinations. Comparison of many train carriers allows to choose the best travel solution and purchase ticket online in the best price. * Traffic info about all moving trains [https://portalpasazera.pl/en] - check, if the train has a delay If you travel in a group with the Regional, you should get a 33% discount for the 2nd, 3rd and 4th person (offer ''Ty i 1,2,3''). If you are a weekend traveller think about weekend offers, which are valid from Friday 19:00 until Monday 06:00: * for all Intercity trains (E-IC, Ex, TLK) ''Bilet Weekendowy'' (from 154 zł, reservation not included) * for TLK ''Bilet Podróżnika'' (74zł) + Regio ''Bilet Plus'' (from 17 zł) * for all Regional trains (REGIO, IR, RE) ''Bilet Turystyczny'' (from 79 zł) * only for Regio trains ''Bilet Turystyczny'' (from 45 zł) If purchased for a long weekend due to a national holiday, the ticket will also valid for the whole long weekend. Travellers under 26 years of age and studying in Poland are entitled to 26% discount on travel fare on Intercity's TLK, EX and IC-category trains, excluding the price of seat reservation. ===By bus=== Poland has a very well developed network of private charter bus companies, which tend to be cheaper, faster, and more comfortable than travel by rail. For trips under 100&nbsp;km, charter buses are far more popular than trains. However, they are more difficult to use for foreigners, because of the language barrier. There is an on-line timetable available. It available in English and includes bus and train options so you can compare: '''[http://en.e-podroznik.pl/ e-podroznik.pl]'''. Online timetables are useful for planning, however, there are multiple carriers at each bus station and departure times for major cities and popular destinations are typically no longer than thirty minutes in-between. Each city and town has a central bus station (formerly known as ''PKS''), where the various bus routes pick up passengers; you can find their schedules there. Bus routes can also be recognized by signs on the front of the bus that typically state the terminating stop. This is easier if picking up a bus from a roadside stop, rather than the central depot. Tickets are usually purchased directly from the driver, but sometimes it's also possible to buy them at the station. If purchasing from the driver, simply board the bus, tell the driver your destination and he will inform you of the price. Drivers rarely speak English, so often he will print a receipt showing the amount. Buses are also a viable choice for long-distance and international travel; however, long-distance schedules are usually more limited than for trains. '''[http://flixbus.com/ FlixBus (ex-PolskiBus)]''' takes a more 'western' approach - you can only buy tickets through the Internet and the prices vary depending on the number of seats already sold. They have bus links between Warsaw and most of the bigger Polish cities (as well as a few neighbouring capitals). For commuting within the city, you can use [https://jakdojade.pl/ Jakdojade] mobile app, where you can buy tickets and check schedule. ===By car=== {{see also|Driving in Poland}} [[Image:NowaMapaStan.svg|thumb|upright=1.2|Polish motorway network]] While the road network in Poland still lags behind many of its western neighbours, in particular [[Germany]], there has been continued significant improvement since the 2010s with the opening of many new motorway segments and refurbishments of some long-neglected thoroughfares that were used far above capacity. There are, however, still quite a lot of roads that are not up to snuff for the traffic they are supposed to carry. Some sections of motorways A1, A2 and A4 are tolled. Travelling east–west is now generally much easier than a decade prior, with [[Poznań]], [[Łódź]] and [[Warsaw]] connected to Polish-German border (direction [[Berlin]]) with the A2 (E30), and the southern major metropoles – [[Wrocław]], [[Katowice]], [[Kraków]] and [[Rzeszów]] – connected to Polish-German border (direction [[Dresden]]) and Polish-Ukrainian border (direction [[Lviv]]) by the A4 (E40). The main north–south routes A1, S3, S5, as well as the Warsaw–Rzeszów connection by the combination of S17 and S19, are opened to traffic on their primary sections as of 2022. However, S7 (linking Gdańsk, Warsaw, Kraków and the Polish-Slovak border) is notably not completed despite carrying high traffic volumes, and one needs to expect large traffic jams near Warsaw and Kraków if driving it during the rush hours or bank holidays. Some major roads, most notably DK1 Tychy–Bielsko Biała (part of the [[Silesia]]–[[Slovakia]] connection) and parts of DK7 north of Warsaw, south of Warsaw and south of Kraków are non-motorway-standard dual carriageways with at-grade intersections and pedestrian crossings. Most large and medium-sized cities have ring roads allowing you to bypass them, as do some of the smaller towns that are by the major roads. Some of the city bypasses are already past their capacity and large traffic jams form on them when the traffic in the city reaches high volumes. Most notably, in the rush hours one needs to expect large delays on A4 near Kraków and Wrocław, S6/S7 near Gdańsk and S8 near Warsaw. National roads are indicated by 1- or 2-digit numbers (prefixed with letter A or S in case of highways) on the red background and they are predominantly in good shape. Voivodeship roads are indicated by 3-digit numbers on the yellow background and their condition varies by region. Local roads are indicated by numbers that are used only for administrative needs, therefore are not placed on road signs. GPS navigations are notorious for leading through 'shortcuts' using such local roads in order to save several minutes compared to the main route. Unless there are traffic jams justifying changing the route, it is typically better to stick to the national or voivodeship roads rather than following the GPS, as numbered roads are often purposefully lead along slightly longer but higher-quality routes. ===By taxi=== Use only those that are associated in a "corporation" (look for phone number and a logo on the side and on the top). There are no British style minicabs in Poland. Unaffiliated drivers are likely to cheat and charge you much more. Like everywhere, be especially wary of these taxis near international airports and train stations. They are called the "taxi mafia". Because of travelers' advice like this (and word of mouth), taxis with ''fake'' phone numbers can be seen on the streets, although this seems to have decreased - possibly the police have taken notice. Fake phone numbers are easily detected by locals and cater for the unsuspecting traveler. The best advice is to ask your Polish friends or your hotel concierge for the number of the taxi company they use and call them 10–15 minutes in advance (there's no additional cost). That's why locals will only hail taxis on the street in an emergency. You can also find phone numbers for taxis in any city on the Internet, on municipal and newspaper websites. Some taxi companies, particularly in larger towns provide for a cab to be ordered on-line or with a text message. There are also stands, where you can call for their particular taxi for free, often found at train stations. If you negotiate the fare with the driver you risk ending up paying more than you should. Better make sure that the driver turns the meter on and sets it to the appropriate fare (''taryfa''): * ''Taryfa'' 1: Daytime within city limits * ''Taryfa'' 2: Nights, Sundays and holidays within city limits * ''Taryfa'' 3: Daytime outside city limits * ''Taryfa'' 4: Nights, Sundays and holidays outside city limits The prices would vary slightly between the taxi companies and between different cities, and there is a small fixed starting fee added on top of the mileage fare. When crossing city limits (for example, when traveling to an airport outside the city), the driver should change the tariff at the city limit. Every taxi driver is obliged to issue a receipt when asked (at the end of the ride). You can inquire driver about a receipt (''rachunek'' or ''paragon'') before you get into cab, and resign if his reaction seems suspicious or if he refuses. Ride-hailing is available in Poland and the following are the most anticipated providers: * {{listing | type=go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-07-09 | content=Includes many towns. }} * {{go | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/r/poland/cities | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-01 | content=Works in all voivodeship capitals and some larger cities. }} ===By bicycle=== [[Cycling]] is a good method to get impression of the scenery in Poland. Especially in the south you can find some nice places for bicycling; e.g. along the rivers Dunajec (from Zakopane to Szczawnica) or Poprad (Krynica to Stary Sącz) or Lower Silesia (Złotoryja - Swierzawa - Jawor). Specially mapped bike routes are starting to appear and there are specialized guide books available so ask a bicycle club for help and you should be just fine. Away from roads which join major cities and large towns you should be able to find some great riding and staying at ''agroturystyka'' (room with board at a farmer's house, for example) can be a great experience. Cycling infrastructure is hit or miss with some cities and towns investing a lot into cycling while others do not care at all. There is no nationwide cycling network, it's more a patchwork of different local systems with varying build quality. Over the last few years, the infrastructure has been rapidly improving, and cycling paths along busy highways are becoming more common (though by no means universal). Expect some sudden dead ends. Markings of bike trails are pretty much close to non-existent, so always take a map with you. As Middle European countries go, Polish drivers are generally careful around cyclists. Still, you may want to avoid "droga krajowa" (DK) and "droga wojewódzka" (DW) types of roads as these are subject to heavy traffic and usually lack both hard shoulder and bike lanes which make them dangerous to cycling. In general plan your trip far ahead to avoid all problems mentioned above. Bicycles in Poland are obliged to have at least one working brake and a bicycle bell. At night lights are mandatory. You do not need bike helmet though. Signal turns with left or right hand depending on direction you are going. You are legally allowed to drive on sidewalk if weather conditions are bad, you drive with a child below age 10 on its own bike, or if speed limit is above 50 km/h and the sidewalk is at least 2 meters wide. Look out for bike lanes with signs where pedestrians and bicycle are shown together or aligned horizontally, as these roads are not bike lanes but mixed pedestrian-bicycle lanes where pedestrians have right of way. Put your safety above driving legally as police rarely cares about fining cyclists. Bike sharing systems (''system roweru miejskiego'') exist in most Polish major cities. It is a self-service system in which you can rent a bike on 24/7 basis from early spring to the end of autumn, with rental fees charged according to local tariffs. First 20 minutes of a rent is usually free of charge. Charge for next 40 minutes is 1-2 zł, then every consecutive hour 3-4 zł. The major system operator in Poland is [http://nextbike.pl Nextbike]. You should register online to get an account, make pre-payment (usually 10 zł) and then can rent bikes in all cities in which this system exists (including towns in Germany and other Central European countries). ===By thumb=== [[Hitchhiking]] in Poland is (on average) OK. Yes, it's slower than its Western (Germany) and Eastern (Lithuania) neighbors, but your waiting times will be quite acceptable! The best places to be picked up at are the main roads, mostly routes between Gdańsk - Warsaw - Poznań and Kraków. Use a cardboard sign and write the desired destination city name on it. Do not try to catch a lift where it is forbidden to stop. Look on the verge of the road and there should be a dashed line painted there, not a solid one. As in any country, you should be careful, there are several reports of Polish hitchhiking trips gone awry, so take basic precautions and you should be as right as rain. ==See== Ever since Poland joined the [[European Union]], international travellers have rapidly rediscovered the country's rich cultural heritage, stunning historic sites and just gorgeous array of landscapes. Whether you're looking for architecture, urban vibes or a taste of the past: Poland's bustling cities and towns offer something for everyone. If you'd rather get away from the crowds and enjoy nature, the country's vast natural areas provide anything from dense forests, high peaks and lush hills to beaches and lake reserves. ===Cities=== [[File:Kraków - Kościół pw. Św. Piotra i Pawła 01.jpg|thumb|upright|Pay attention to the remarkable details on Kraków's historic buildings]] Most of the major cities boast lovely old centres and a range of splendid buildings, some of them World Heritage sites. Many old quarters were heavily damaged or even destroyed in WWII bombings, but were meticulously rebuilt after the war, using the original bricks and ornaments where possible. Although remains of the Soviet Union and even scars of the Second World War are visible in most of them, the Polish cities offer great historic sight seeing while at the same time they have become modern, lively places. The capital, '''[[Warsaw]]''', has one of the best '''old centres''' and its many sights include the ancient city walls, palaces, churches and squares. You can follow the '''Royal Route''' to see some of the best landmarks outside the old centre. The old city of '''[[Kraków]]''' is considered the country's cultural capital, with another gorgeous historic centre, countless monumental buildings and a few excellent museums. Just 50&nbsp;km from there is the humbling '''[[Auschwitz]]''' concentration camp which, due to the horrible events it represents, leaves an impression like no other World Heritage site does. The ancient '''Wieliczka salt mine''' is another great daytrip from Kraków. Once a Hanseatic League-town, the port city of '''[[Gdańsk]]''' boasts many impressive buildings from that time. Here too, a walk along the Royal Road gives a great overview of notable sights. '''[[Wrocław]]''', the former capital of [[Silesia]], is still less well-known but can definitely compete when it comes to amazing architecture, '''Centennial Hall''' being the prime example. Its picturesque location on the river Oder and countless bridges make this huge city a lovely place. The old town of '''[[Zamość]]''' was planned after Italian theories of the "ideal town" and named "a unique example of a Renaissance town in Central Europe" by UNESCO. The stunning medieval city of '''[[Toruń]]''' has some great and original Gothic architecture, as it is one of the few Polish cities to have escaped devastation in WWII. Other interesting cities include [[Poznań]] and [[Lublin]]. ===Natural attractions=== [[Image:D5sp-czarny.jpg|thumb|right|Tatra National Park]] With 23 national parks and a number of landscape parks spread all over the country, natural attractions are never too far away. [[Białowieża National Park]], on the [[Belarus]] border, is a World Heritage site for it comprises the last remains of the primeval forest that once covered most of Europe. It's the only place where European bison still live in the wild. If you're fit and up for adventure, take the dangerous '''Eagle's Path''' (Orla Perć) in the [[Tatra National Park (Poland)|Tatra Mountains]], where you'll also find Poland's highest peak. [[Pieniński National Park]] boasts the stunning '''Dunajec River Gorge''' and [[Karkonoski National Park]] is home to some fabulous water falls. The mountainous [[Bieszczady National Park]] has great hiking opportunities and lots of wild life. [[Wielkopolski National Park]] is, in contrast, very flat and covers a good part of the pretty '''Poznań Lakeland'''. The Masurian Landscape Park, in the [[Masuria|Masurian Lake District]] with its 2000 lakes, is at least as beautiful. [[Bory Tucholskie National Park]] has the largest woodland in the country and has a bunch of lakes too, making it great for bird watching. The two national parks on Poland's coast are also quite popular: Wolin National Park is on an island in the north-west, [[Słowiński National Park]] holds some of the largest sand dunes in Europe. ===Castles & other rural monuments=== [[File:Panorama of Malbork Castle, part 3.jpg|thumb|right|Malbork castle]] The Polish countryside is lovely and at times even gorgeous, with countless historic villages, castles, churches and other monuments. Agrotourism is therefore increasingly popular. If you have a taste for cultural heritage, the south western parts of the country offer some of the best sights, but there's great stuff in other areas too. The impressive Gothic '''Wawel Castle''' in [[Kraków]] may be one of the finest examples when it comes to Poland's castles, but most of the others are in smaller countryside towns. The large, red brick '''[[Malbork]]''' castle (in northern Poland) is perhaps the most stunning in the country, built in 1406 and today the world's biggest brick Gothic castle. The castle of '''Książ''' in [[Wałbrzych]] is one of the best examples in historic Silesia, which also brought forward the now semi-ruined '''Chojnik castle''', on a hill above the town of Sobieszów and within the [[Karkonoski National Park]]. After surviving battles and attacks for centuries, it was destroyed by lightning in 1675 and has been a popular tourist attraction since the 18th century. The picturesque '''Czocha Castle''' near Lubań originates from 1329. A bit off the beaten track are the ruins of '''Krzyżtopór''' castle, in a village near Opatów. The '''[[Lesser Poland|Wooden Churches of Southern Lesser Poland]]''' are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, just like the '''Churches of Peace''' in [[Jawor]] and [[Swidnica]]. The '''Jasna Góra Monastery''' in [[Częstochowa]] and the beautiful, World Heritage listed '''[[Kalwaria Zebrzydowska]] monastery''' are famous pilgrimage destinations. The lovely '''Muskau Park''' in [[Łęknica]], on the German border, has fabulous English gardens and is a UNESCO listing shared with [[Germany]]. Poland also shares a world heritage site with Ukraine; the [[Wooden tserkvas of the Carpathian region]]. 8 of 16 of these churches are in southeastern Poland, in the [[Lubelskie]], [[Podkarpackie]] and [[Małopolskie]] regions. [[File:2014 Pole uprawne w Raszkowie.jpg|thumbnail|right|The original ''Polans'' were "people of the fields"]] ===Countryside=== The countryside throughout Poland is lovely and relatively unspoiled. Poland has a variety of regions with beautiful landscapes and small-scale organic and traditional farms. Travelers can choose different types of activities such as bird watching, cycling or horseback riding. Culturally, you can visit or experience many churches, museums, ceramic and traditional basket-making workshops, castle ruins, rural centers and many more. A journey through the Polish countryside gives you a perfect opportunity to enjoy and absorb local knowledge about its landscape and people. ==Do== * Travel one of the '''European Cultural Routes''' that cross Poland: for example '''Cisterian Route''' * '''Watch football:''' Ekstraklasa is the top tier of soccer in Poland, with 16 teams representing all the major cities. The playing season is July to April with a long winter break. The national team usually play home games at Stadion Narodowy (National Stadium) in Warsaw. * '''Cycling:''' you can bike through Poland, there are five EuroVelo trails going through nearly every part of country. However, infrastructure may be a bit lacking outside major cities. ===Canoeing=== Rent a canoe at local tourism agency and swim on one of many relatively pristine Polish rivers. Agencies provide pickup of canoes after finished trip and return to base. For those feeling more adventurous, you can swim over multiple days and combine it with camping on dedicated sites. Best routes for canoeing are located in northern Poland, especially in Pomerania region, where rivers are wide, but not too wide and offer reasonable difficulty so as to not make your route too boring or dangerous. If you wish to contemplate nature consider rivers in national parks, for example: [[Drawa National Park|Drawa]], [[Biebrza National Park|Biebrza]], and [[Bory Tucholskie National Park|Brda]]. Other interesting options are Barycz and its Milicz ponds, and Pilica, both in southern parts of the country. ===Hiking=== [[File:Polana Strążyska, widok na Giewont.jpg|thumb|Hiking is a common way to spend summer holiday in Poland. Giewont is especially popular among tourists.]] There are many mountain trails for casual summer hike in southern Poland. Most of them can be scaled by any healthy, inexperienced person in a day. Remember to bring waterproof jacket, good shoes and something warmer just in case it starts raining or temperature suddenly drops. Relatively easy mountains can be found in [[Karkonosze National Park]], [[Table Mountains National Park]] and in [[Lower Silesian Voivodeship|Kłodzko Land]]. Trails here are usually well marked and often finish with shelter close to the peak where you can refill or even sleep if weather is too troubling. More difficult routes are in [[Tatra National Park (Poland)|Tatra mountains]] which often pass through exposed rock and ice (lasting up to June). They also have good infrastructure with abundant supports and are well marked, though crowds may be huge. You can also keep to the mountainous valleys which are less demanding and offer just as breathtaking views. If you prefer more peace and quiet then [[Bieszczady National Park]] should provide you with some. Stock well with supplies as shelters are rare here. Other choices are [[Babia Góra National Park]] in [[Silesian Voivodeship|Silesia]]. [[Gorce National Park|Gorce]] and [[Pieniny National Park]] in [[Małopolskie]] with views of Tatras and the low and completely forested [[Magura National Park|Magura]] and [[Swietokrzyski National Park]] hills. The most crowded and scenic hikes are [[Hiking from Zakopane to Giewont|Giewont]] in Tatras and Śnieżka in Karkonosze. ==Learn== Education is taken ''very seriously'' in Poland, and the country is home to many of Europe's oldest universities. Poles typically attain excellent results at international competitions around the globe, and the country's educational system is often considered to be one of the best systems in the world. It is obligatory for every Pole to receive an education until they are 18 years old. At the end of compulsory schooling, many Poles take the ''matura'' exam, an end of school exam that will determine their university admissions. The '''[http://www.uj.edu.pl/ Jagiellonian University]''', founded in 1364, is one of the oldest universities in the world. The '''[https://en.uw.edu.pl/ University of Warsaw]''', founded in 1816, is widely regarded as the most prestigious institution of higher education in Poland. ==Work== Citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland can work in Poland without having to secure a work permit. Everyone else, however, needs to apply for a work permit. Although Poland has one of the best-performing economies in the world, finding a job can be challenging. Many job postings are in Polish and usually require at least communicative knowledge of this language. Salaries tend to be lower than in Western Europe and positions are usually boring outsourcing jobs. Jobs are concentrated in five cities (Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław, Gdańsk, Poznań) with domination of the capital city. Typical occupations include: IT, accounting, HR, finance and logistics. If you do not know Polish this is your best bet. Outside of these large cities good paying jobs, especially not requiring Polish knowledge are scarce and you may prefer to work remote directly for Western companies. Knowledge of German can significantly increase your salary and improve your chances on Polish job market as it is main trading partner of Poland and Poles are not very fond of this language. TEFL courses (that's Teaching English as a Foreign Language) are run in many cities across Poland. Even if you don't have a working visa or Polish citizenship, it should be no problem for you to offer private lessons. In general students, private and in classes, are very friendly toward their teachers, inviting them for dinner or drinks, and sometimes acting quite emotional during their last lesson. Post your services on telephone poles and bus stops with an email or phone number. [http://ekorki.pl Ekorki] is good if you're looking for longer term teaching gigs. It is a little bit like Monster.com in the US. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Polish złoty | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;zł | date=January 2025 | USD=4.14 | EUR=4.27 | GBP=5.14 | CHF=4.54 | SEK=0.37 | DKK=0.57 | NOK=0.36 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/pln-polish-zloty XE.com]}} [[Image:Polish-Banknote-100zl.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Polish 100 zł banknote]] The legal tender in Poland is the '''Polish złoty''', pronounced ''zwoty''. It is denoted by the symbol "'''zł'''" (ISO code:: '''PLN'''). The złoty is divided into 100 '''groszy''' (see infobox for details). In 1995, 10,000 old złoty were replaced by one new złoty. When it joined the EU, Poland committed to adopting the euro, however it is unlikely to happen in near future as most political options quietly or vigorously oppose adoption. Coins come in denominations of 1 grosz, 2 grosze, 5, 10, 20 and 50 groszy, 1 złoty, 2 złote (yellow ring with silver center) and 5 złotych (silver ring with yellow center). Banknotes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 złotych. ====Money exchange==== Private currency exchange offices (Polish: ''kantor'') are very common, and offer euro or US dollar exchanges at rates that are usually comparable to commercial banks. Exchanges in tourist hot-spots, such as the train stations or popular tourist destinations, tend to overcharge. Avoid "Interchange" Kantor locations, easily recognized by their orange color; the rates they offer are very bad. {{Infobox|Cash|Polish has two types of plural numbers, which you are likely to encounter when dealing with currency. Here are the noun forms to expect: * Singular: 1 '''złoty''', 1 '''grosz''' * Nominative plural: 2 - 4 '''złote''', '''grosze''', then 22 - 24, 32 - 34, etc. * Genitive plural: 5 - 21 '''złotych''', '''groszy''', then 25 - 31, 35 - 41, etc. }} ====ATMs==== There is an extensive network of cash machines or ATMs (Polish: ''bankomat''). The ATMs of '''Santander''' do not charge a fee for withdrawing money with a foreign Visa or Mastercard. Decline the currency conversion as there is a big markup fee. Silesa Bank/PlanetCash lets you choose between 9 zł or 11%. Most of the other banks, if not all, charge a fee of about 15-18 zł and/or about 12-14% conversion fee. (updated July 2022) ====Credit and debit cards==== Credit and debit cards can be used to pay almost everywhere in the big cities. Even single bus ride tickets can be paid for by cards in major cities provided the passenger buys them in vending machines at bus stops. The exception would be small businesses and post offices where acceptance is not completely universal. Popular cards include ''Visa'', ''Visa Electron'', ''MasterCard'' and ''Maestro''. ''AmEx'' and ''Diners' Club'' can be used in a few places (notably the big, business-class hotels) but are not popular and you should not rely on them for any payments. In some merchants you will be given an option to have the card bill you in złoty or your home currency directly. In the former, your bank will convert the transaction for you (subject to the foreign exchange charges it sets) whereas in the latter, the rates set are usually worse than what your bank uses; hence choose to be charged in złoty. ====Cheques==== Cheques are not used. Local banks do not issue cheque books to customers and stores do not accept them. ===Tipping=== When you're paying for drinks or a meal in restaurants or bars and you are handed a receipt, you should give the amount you have to pay and wait for the change. If you give the money and say "thank you" it will be treated as a "keep the change" type of tip. This also goes for taxis. The average tip is around 10% of the price. It's polite to leave a tip, but it's not uncommon to ignore this practice. You can tip tour guides and drivers too, but only if you are happy with the service they have provided. ===Exports=== It is illegal to export goods older than 55 years that are of ''any'' historic value. If you intend to do so you need to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage. ===Shopping=== {{infobox|Shopping on Sundays|There is a ban on trading on Sundays in Poland (except for designated "trade Sundays" when it's allowed - usually preceding major holidays). Shopping malls, supermarkets and smaller shops are closed. Restaurants, online stores, filling stations (including their shops), some pharmacies, bakeries and post offices remain open.}} Prices in Poland are among the lowest in Europe. '''Supermarkets''' are dominated by western chains: Biedronka, Lidl, Carrefour, Auchan, although the Polish-founded Dino and Stokrotka chains are also quite widespread, especially in the countryside. Poles also do often shop at local '''grocery stores''' for bread, meat, fresh dairy, vegetables and fruits - goods for which freshness and quality is essential. The Żabka chain of convenience stores is dominant though - in most places you can find few Żabka stores within walking distance. Many towns, and larger suburbs, hold traditional weekly '''town markets''', similar to farmers' markets popular in the West. Fresh produce, baker's goods, dairy, meat and meat products are sold, along with everything from flowers and garden plants to Chinese-made clothing and bric-a-brac. In season wild mushrooms and forest fruit can also be bought. Markets are held on Thursdays, Fridays or Saturdays and are a great way to enjoy the local colour. Prices are usually set though you can try a little good-natured bargaining if you buy more than a few items. ==Eat== {{Infobox|Tipping|For the most part, Polish restaurants and bars do not include gratuity in the total of the check, so your server will be pleased if you leave them a tip along with the payment. On average, you should tip 10% of the total bill. If you tip 15% or 20%, you probably should have received excellent service. Also, saying "''Dziękuję''" ("thank you") after paying means you do not expect any change back, so watch out if you're paying for a 10 zł coffee with a 100 zł bill. With all that said, many Poles may not leave a tip, unless service was exceptional. Poles don't usually tip bar staff.}} Poles take their meals following the standard continental schedule: a light breakfast in the morning (usually some sandwiches with tea/coffee), then a larger lunch (or traditionally a "dinner") at around 13:00-14:00, then a supper at around 19:00. It is not difficult to avoid meat, with many restaurants offering at least one vegetarian dish. Most major cities have some exclusively vegetarian restaurants, especially near the city centre. Vegan options remain extremely limited, however. [[File:Pierogi z kaszanka.jpg|thumbnail|right|Pierogi]] ===Traditional local food=== [[File:Bigos polonia.jpg|thumbnail|right|Bigos]] Traditional Polish cuisine tends to be hearty, rich in meats, sauces, and vegetables; sides of pickled vegetables are a favourite accompaniment. It is often described as a cross between German and Russian cuisines, though it also has unique dishes not found in any other cuisines. Modern Polish cuisine, however, tends towards greater variety, and focuses on healthy choices. In general, the quality of "store-bought" food is very high, especially in dairy products, baked goods, vegetables and meat products. [[File:Paradajz corba.jpg|thumbnail|Tomato soup (''pomidorowa'') is so popular in Poland that it even has its own fan clubs]] A dinner commonly includes the first course of soup, followed by the main course. Among soups, '''barszcz czerwony''' (red beet soup, also known as borscht) is perhaps the most recognizable: a spicy and slightly sour soup, served hot. It's commonly poured over dumplings ('''barszcz z uszkami''' or '''barszcz z pierogami'''), or served with a fried pâté roll ('''barszcz z pasztecikiem'''). Other uncommon soups include '''zupa ogórkowa''', a cucumber soup made of a mix of fresh and pickled cucumbers; '''zupa grzybowa''', typically made with wild mushrooms; also, '''flaki''' or '''flaczki''' - well-seasoned tripe. The most common in restaurants is the '''żurek''', a sour-rye soup served with traditional Polish sausage and a hard-boiled egg. [[File:Chlodnik (Cold Borscht).jpg|thumb|Chlodnik (cold borsht), as served in [[Poznań]]]] '''Pierogi''' are, of course, an immediately recognizable Polish dish. They are often served alongside another dish (for example, with barszcz), rather than as the main course. There are several types of them, stuffed with a mix of cottage cheese and onion, or with meat or even wild forest fruits. '''Gołąbki''' are also widely known: they are large cabbage rolls stuffed with a mix of grains and meats, steamed or boiled and served hot with a white sauce or tomato sauce. '''Kotlet schabowy''', or breaded pork chop, is another immediately recognizable dish, similar to German and Austrian schnitzels. '''Bigos''' is another unique, if less well-known, Polish dish: a "hunter's stew" that includes various meats and vegetables, on a base of pickled cabbage. Bigos tends to be very thick and hearty. Similar ingredients can also be thinned out and served in the form of a cabbage soup, called '''kapuśniak'''. Some Austro-Hungarian imports have also become popular over the years, and adopted by the Polish cuisine. These include '''gulasz''', a local version of goulash that's less spicy than the original, and '''sznycel po wiedeńsku''', which is a traditional schnitzel, often served with potatoes and a selection of vegetables. When it comes to food-on-the-go, foreign imports tend to dominate (such as kebab or pizza stands, and fast-food franchises). An interesting Polish twist is a '''zapiekanka''', which is an open-faced baguette, covered with mushrooms and cheese (or other toppings of choice), and toasted until the cheese melts. '''Zapiekanki''' can be found at numerous roadside stands and bars. In some bars ''placki ziemniaczane'' (Polish potato pancakes) are also available. ''Knysza'' is a Polish version of hamburger, but it's much (much) bigger and it contains beef, variety of vegetables and sauces. ''Drożdżówka'' is a popular sweet version of food-on-the-go, which is a sweet yeast bread (sometimes in a form of kolach) or a pie filled with stuffing made of: poppy seed mass; vanilla, chocolate, coconut or advocaat pudding; baked apples; cocoa mass; sweet curd cheese or fruits. Poland is also known for two unique cheeses, both made by hand in the [Podhale] mountain region in the south. '''Oscypek''' is the more famous: a hard, salty cheese, made of unpasteurized sheep milk, and smoked (or not). It goes very well with alcoholic beverages such as beer. The less common is '''bryndza''', a soft cheese, also made with sheep milk (and therefore salty), with a consistency similar to spreadable cheeses. It's usually served on bread, or baked potatoes. Both cheeses are covered by the EU Protected Designation of Origin (like the French Roquefort, or the Italian Parmegiano-Reggiano). Polish bread is sold in bakeries (''piekarnia'' in Polish) and shops and it's a good idea to ask on what times it can be bought hot (in a bakery). Poles are often very attached to their favourite bread suppliers and don't mind getting up very early in the morning to obtain a fresh loaf. The most common bread ('''zwykły''') is made of rye or rye and wheat flour with sourdough and is best enjoyed very fresh with butter alone or topped with a slice of ham. Many other varieties of breads and bread rolls can be bought and their names and recipes vary depending on a region. Sweet Challah bread ('''chałka''' in Polish) is sold in many bakeries. [[File:Smażenie pączków (Aw58MW).jpg|thumb|Pączki]] Polish cake shops (''cukiernia'') are also worth mentioning, as there's a big tradition of eating cakes in Poland. They can be found in every city and quite often sell local specialties. The standard cakes and desserts which can be found in every region of Poland are: cheesecake ('''sernik'''), applecake ('''jabłecznik'''), yeast fruit cakes ('''drożdżówka''') - especially with plums or strawberries, a variety of cream cakes ('''kremówki'''), '''babka''' which is a plain sweet cake, sometimes with an addition of cocoa, '''mazurek''', '''fale dunaju''', '''metrowiec''', '''ciasto jogurtowe''' which is a sponge filled with yoghurt mousse, doughnuts ('''pączki''', singular: pączek) which are traditionally filled with wild rose petals marmalade and eaten on Fat Tuesday, '''pszczółka''' - a yeast cake with coconut pudding and many others. Polish sausages ('''kiełbasy''') are sold in grocery shops or in butcher's shops (''rzeźnik''). There are tens of different types of sausages; most of them can be enjoyed without any further preparation. Therefore, there are sausages like '''biała kiełbasa''' (traditionally enjoyed in '''żurek''' or '''barszcz biały''' soup) which are raw and need to be boiled, fried or baked before eating. Some sausages are recommended to be fried or roasted over a bonfire (which is probably as popular as barbecuing). Different local sausages can be found in different regions of Poland (like '''Lisiecka''' in Kraków area). Polish fish & chips ('''smażalnia ryb''') can be found in most cities on the Baltic Sea coast. On the coast and in the Masuria you can also find extremely valued in Poland fish smokehouses ('''wędzarnia ryb''') which sell many types of smoked local fish (mostly marine fish on the coast, freshwater fish in Masuria). Smokehouses might turn out very difficult to find, as they don't usually display advertisements and are sometimes in some remote areas. It is a good idea to do some investigation and to ask local people for directions and help with searching. Among smoked fish offered for sale you can find: salmon (''łosoś''), cod (''dorsz''), flounder (''flądra''), rose fish (''karmazyn''), herring (''śledź''), halibut (''halibut''), pollock (''mintaj''), hake (''morszczuk''), mackerel (''makrela''), skipper (''szprotki, szprot''), trout (''pstrąg''), brown trout (''troć''), eel (''węgorz''), zander (''sandacz''), carp (''karp''), vendace (''sielawa''), tencz (''lin''), bream (''leszcz''), sturgeon (''jesiotr''), asp (''boleń'') and others. You should be careful with smoked butterfish (''maślana'') as despite being very delicious it can cause diarrhea in some people and shouldn't be eaten by children and elderly people. In the whole Poland territory you can buy some smoked fish, among which the most popular is mackerel (it is advised to buy it in a busy shop for full, fresh flavour as it deteriorates quickly; for example in a local market). Also anywhere in Poland you can buy herrings in vinegar or oil marinade. One of the Polish favourites is battered herring or other fish in a vinegar marinade. ===Milk bars=== Critically endangered kind of restaurant where you can eat cheaply, these days only few remain in large cities, though if you are on shoestring budget it can be well worth finding one close to you. A milk bar is a very basic sort of fast food restaurant that serves cheap Polish fare, usually dairy-based, rarely vegetarian which is how the name originated. Though first milk bar opened as early as 1896 it is mostly associated with communist Poland where it served as a means to offer cheap meals to people working in companies that had no official canteen. The milk bars are subsidized by the state, except for meat dishes, which means that you can eat here really, really cheap (below 25 zł), at least if you stick to non-meat options. Food served tends to be bland in taste but will fill you up. Eating there will allow you to experience a 1970s Poland environment, complete from meals served to (generally poor) customer service and dull interiors. These days mostly attended by pensioners and homeless. ==Drink== [[File:06592 Holiday Folk in Niebieszczany.jpg|thumbnail|right|Polish people drink more beer than any other alcoholic beverage]] Poland is on the border of European "vodka" and "beer culture". Poles enjoy alcoholic drinks but they drink less than the European average. You can buy beer, vodka and wine. Although Poland is known as the birthplace of vodka, local beer seems to have much more appeal to many Poles. Another traditional alcoholic beverage is mead. Polish liqueurs and ''nalewka'' (alcoholic tincture) are a must. You must be over 18 years old and be able to prove it with a valid ID to buy alcohol, and this is strictly enforced. ===Beer=== Poland's brewery tradition began in the Middle Ages. Today Poland is one of the top beer producing countries in Europe. Although not well known internationally, Poland traditionally sports some of the best pilsner-type lagers worldwide. The most common big brands include: * Żywiec (pronounced ''ZHIV-y-ets'') * Tyskie (pronounced ''TIS-kyeh'') * Okocim (pronounced ''oh-KO-cheem'') * Lech (pronounced ''LEH'') * Warka (pronounced ''VAR-kah'') * Łomża (pronounced ''Uom-zha'') Micro-breweries and gastro-pubs are on the rise, in particular in the larger cities, and many delicatessen or supermarkets carry smaller brands, including hand-crafted beers of many types. Pubs usually offer one or two varieties of draught beer (draft beer), usually only pilsner-type lagers. When ordering a beer, you can choose between "big one" (''duże''; 0.5 liter) or "small one" (''małe''; 0.3 liter). You can also ask for "beer with juice" (''piwo z sokiem''), then a barman will add a bit of sweet syrup (raspberry or ginger). The most popular snack ordered with beer is potato chips. ===Vodka=== Common brands are: * '''Żubrówka''' (Zhoo-BROOF-ka) - vodka with flavors derived from Bison Grass, from eastern Poland. * '''Żołądkowa Gorzka''' (Zho-wont-KO-va GOSH-ka) - vodka with "bitter" (''gorzka'') in the name, but sweet in taste. Just like Żubrówka, it's a unique Polish product and definitely a must-try. * '''Wiśniówka''' (Vish-NIOOF-ka) - Cherry vodka (very sweet). * '''Krupnik''' (KROOP-nik) - Honey and spices vodka, a traditional Polish-Lithuanian recipe (very sweet). During winter, many bars sell ''Grzany Krupnik'' (warm Krupnik), where hot water, cinnamon, cloves, and citrus zest or slices are added. * '''Żytnia''' (ZHIT-nea) - rye vodka * '''Wyborowa''' (Vi-bo-RO-va) - One of Poland's most popular rye vodkas. This is also one of the most common exported brands. Strong and pleasant. * '''Luksusowa''' (Look-sus-OH-vah) "Luxurious" - Another popular brand, and a common export along with Wyborowa. * '''Starka''' "Old" - A vodka traditionally aged for years in oak casks. Of Lithuanian origin * '''Biała Dama''' (Be-AH-wa DAH-ma) is not a vodka but a name given by winos to cheap rectified spirits of dubious origin, best avoided if you like your eyesight the way it is. *'''Sobieski''' - rye vodka, one of the most commonly chosen by Polish people. Deluxe (more expensive) brands include '''Chopin''' and '''Belvedere'''. Most Poles consider these brands to be "export brands", and usually don't drink them. There are also dozens of flavoured vodkas. Apart from Polish traditional flavours like: Żubrówka, Żołądkowa, Wiśniówka and Krupnik, you can easily buy some less obvious flavours like: pineapple, pear, blackcurrant, cranberry, grapefruit, apple, mint, lemon, herbs and others. The availability of different brands can vary in different regions of the country. ===Wine=== Poland makes wines around [[Zielona Góra]] in [[Lubuskie]], in [[Małopolskie]], in the [[Beskids]] and in [[Świętokrzyskie]] in central Poland. Polish wines are available in retail stores. As for imported wine, apart from the usual old and new world standards, there is usually a choice of decent table wines from central and eastern Europe, such as Austria, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Moldova, the Balkans, and Georgia. It winter, many Poles drink ''grzaniec'' (mulled wine), made of red wine heated with spices such as cloves, nutmeg, and ginger. A similar drink can be made with beer, although wine is the more popular method. === Mead === Mead - ''miód pitny'' (literally 'drinkable honey') is a traditional and historical alcohol drink in Poland. Mead is brewed from honey and has excellent unusual taste similar to wine. Original Polish mead contains 13-20% alcohol. Sometimes it can be very sweet. Today Poles have a strange relationship with mead. All of them have heard of it, almost none have ever tried it. A fitting place to buy and try Polish mead is the mediaeval re-enactment village at [[Wolin]]. ===Cocktails=== Poles are very keen on beer and vodka, and you'll find that cocktails are often expensive but can be found in most bars in most major cities. One of the best known native to Poland drinks is ''Szarlotka'' made of ''Żubrówka'' vodka and apple juice. [[File:A glass of tea in Poland 845.JPG|thumbnail|right|Polish people traditionally drink tea from glasses, not cups]] ===Tea and coffee=== [[File:01141 Pischinger (chocolate oblaten cake), Sanok 2011.jpg|thumbnail|right|Due to the proximity of the [[Turkey|Ottoman Empire]], with whom Poland used to share a border and fought many wars, the country was one of the first in Europe to take to drinking coffee]] Throw stereotypes out the door. For Poles, one of the most important staples to quench their thirst is not ''wódka'' or beer, but rather tea and coffee. The traditional hot drink is tea (''herbata'') while coffee (''kawa'') although known in Poland since close contacts with Turkey in 17th century, became more popular in last twenty five years. It is very common behaviour that if you visit friends at home or start a formal meeting you will be firstly asked: "coffee or tea?". Refusing a hot drink in this situation may be seen as impolite. It is rather unusual to talk or to meet with somebody without drinking one of those hot drinks. When ordering a coffee, you'll find that it is treated with respect reminiscent of Vienna, rather than, say, New York. Which is to say: you'll get a fresh cup prepared one serving at a time, with table service that assumes you'll sit down for a while to enjoy it. Mass-produced to-go coffee remains highly unpopular, although chains such as ''Coffee Heaven'' have been making inroads. Curiously, there are still only a few Starbucks shops in the whole country, which are occupied mostly by teenagers. There are four basic types of coffee which you will be offered in Poland. In small bars, fast food or at friends home (where usually they haven't coffee makers) you can choose between instant coffee (''rozpuszczalna'') or Turkish coffee (''kawa po turecku'' or ''kawa sypana''). The second one is a very specific Polish style, not known abroad. It is simply two teaspoons of ground coffee poured with boiling water. A traditional way is to serve it in glasses. In restaurants you can additionally order "a coffee from a coffee maker" (''kawa z ekspresu''). It may be a very small and strong, Italian-style ''espresso'' or bigger one (200 ml) ''americano''. During order a waiter or a barman always will ask you whether you want "black one?" (''czarna?''; without milk) or "with milk?" (''z mlekiem?''). Ordering a tea, on the other hand, will usually get you a cup or kettle of hot water, and a tea bag on the side, so that the customer can put together a tea that's as strong or as weak as they like. This is not uncommon in continental Europe, but may require some adjustment for visitors. Drinking tea with milk is not popular, traditionally Poles add a slice of lemon and sugar (''herbata z cytryną''), unless they drink flavored tea. Tea houses with large selection of good quality teas and a relaxing atmosphere are gaining popularity. In such places you will get rather a kettle with brewed leaf tea. Funnily, drinking tea with milk is commonly believed in Poland to enhance women's lactation. For the most part, a good coffee can be had for 5 - 10 zł a cup, while a cup of tea can be purchased for the same, unless you happen to order a small kettle, in which case you'll probably pay something between 15 - 30 zł. ===Water=== Drinking water with a meal is not a Polish tradition; having a tea or coffee afterwards is much more common. If you want water with a meal, you might need to ask for it - and you will usually get a choice of carbonated (''gazowana'') or still (''niegazowana'') bottled water, rather than a glass of tap water. As a result, water isn't free, and is pretty expensive too compared to the average price of a meal (up to 4zł for one glass). Beware that sometimes even "still" bottled water, while not visibly bubbly, might still contain some carbon dioxide. You can ask for a glass of tap water or a glass of hot water and receive it for free in most places. Therefore, drinking tap water is considered to be rather weird in Poland. On the bright side, it is safe, due to the water safety standards being at EU level. Carbonated mineral waters are popular, and several kinds are available. Poland was known for its mineral water health spas (''pijalnia wód'') in the 19th century, and the tradition remains strong - you can find many carbonated waters that are naturally rich in minerals and salts. You can also travel to the spas such as [[Szczawnica]] or [[Krynica]], which are still operational. Many varieties of bottled mineral water that can be purchased originate from underground sources (since domestic spring waters are almost unavailable). Bottled mineral water usually has a neutral taste, unlike mineral water bought in water health spas which can have a very distinctive flavour. Some bottled mineral waters are regarded as very healthy due to their high content of minerals, like for example ''Muszynianka'', ''Kryniczanka'' or all mineral waters sold in brown bottles. [[File:Samotnia noca 01.jpg|thumbnail|right|You can find accommodation even in the most remote parts of Poland]] ===Prices=== Poland is still one of the cheapest countries in the European Union and its prices for food, beverages and tobacco are among the lowest. ==Sleep== Poland is catching up with Western Europe when it comes to availability and standards of lodging. Many smaller towns and locations less frequented by tourists still offer very little choice of accommodation and the existing providers make use of it rather by offering low standards than charging extortionate prices. In large cities, both in hotels and hostels, you can expect staff to have reasonable command of English, and often other foreign languages. In less frequented locations, the language barrier may be a problem. ===Prices=== Lodging prices are no longer the bargain they used to be several years ago; now they're comparable to standard European prices. For the bargain hunter, standard tactics apply: if hotel prices are too much, look on the Internet for private rooms, pensions, or apartments for rent, which can sometimes be found for a very reasonable price. Best deals are usually offered off-season. [[File:Sopot-grandhotel.jpg|thumbnail|right|Sofitel Grand in [[Sopot]]]] ===Hotels=== [[File:Intercontinental Warszawa.JPG|thumbnail|right|Intercontinental in [[Warsaw]], the tallest hotel in Poland]] The only major hotel chain with decent coverage of the entirety of the country is [http://www.accorhotels.com/ Accor], who have taken over the former state-owned provider Orbis. A selection of hotels ranging from the affordable ''ibis'' through business-oriented ''Novotel'' and ''Mercure'' and prestigious ''Sofitels'' can be found throughout the country. Do note that while almost all ibis-hotels have been purpose-built in the 2000s, Novotels and Mercures are often converted old Orbis hotels and may not be the best hotels those brands have to offer in Europe. Even Accor has gaps in coverage in less tourist-frequented areas. The most popular global hotel chains (Intercontinental, Marriott, Hilton, Carlson) have some presence in Poland, but none can really boast full coverage of even the most important cities. There is a number of Best Western-affiliated hotels, but they do not cover the entire country as well. Of particular note of the motorized travellers on a budget is the presence of another French chain, Campanile. ===Hostels=== [[Hostels]] affiliated with the national hosteling association are often horrid options for backpackers because of imposed curfews. Additionally, Hosteling International (HI) affiliated hostels are frequently used by large school groups, which means young children may very well be screaming their heads off and running around the halls. Some private hostels are clean and welcoming, but others can be worse than HI hostels. ===Agritourism farms=== Rural tourism has become extremely popular in Poland in the last few decades. Due to social and economic changes in the Polish countryside, many farms have changed their focus from intensive food production to tourism. Under the notion of "agritourism farm" (''gospodarstwo agroturystyczne'' or simply ''agroturystyka'') you may find a real farm in which hosts are real farmers working on their fields and additionally hosting tourists, letting them peek into their everyday country life. Usually, however, you will encounter countryside pensions for whom tourism is the basic source of income. ==Stay safe== The European '''unified emergency number 112''' is being deployed in Poland. By now, it certainly works for all mobile-phone calls and most land-line calls. There are also three "old" emergency numbers that are still in use for land-lines. These are: Ambulance (Pogotowie): 999, Firefighters (Straż Pożarna): 998, and Police (Policja): 997. Municipal Guards (Straż Miejska), dial 986, is a kind of auxiliary Police force found only in large cities. They are not armed and their role is primarily to cope with parking offences and minor cases of antisocial behaviour. [[File:2014 Logo Policji Mońki.jpg|thumbnail|right|When in trouble, report immediately to the police (''Policja'')]] ===Theft=== Poland is generally a safe country. In fact, you are much less likely to experience crime in places like Warsaw or Kraków than in Paris or Rome. Overall, just use common sense and be aware of what you're doing. In cities, follow standard city travel rules: don't leave valuables in the car in plain sight; don't display money or expensive things needlessly; know where you're going; be suspicious of strangers asking for money or trying to sell you something. Pickpockets operate, pay attention to your belongings in crowds, at stations, in crowded trains and buses, and clubs. In any case, do not be afraid to seek help or advice from the Police (''Policja'') or the Municipal Guards (''Straż Miejska''). One worrying trend is theft at airports. Tourists have reported pick-pocketing attempts at Polish airports. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially at security checks. ===Security on trains === On sleeper trains, bag robberies happen between major stations. Ask for ID from anyone who asks to take your ticket or passport and lock backpacks to the luggage racks. Keep valuables on you. ===Violence=== Violent behaviour is relatively rare and if it occurs it is most likely alcohol-related. While pubs and clubs are generally very safe, the nearby streets may be scenes of brawls, especially late at night. Try to avoid confrontations. [[File:John Godson (10073201384).jpg|thumbnail|Polish people tend to approach foreigners from far corners of the globe with friendly curiosity. One sign of openness to ethnic diversity is the election of John Godson, born in Nigeria, as a member of the Polish parliament]] ===Racism=== Poland was a homogeneous society in the second half of the 20th century, but the situation has changed. There are some national minorities like Ukrainians, Belarusians, Germans, and ethnic minorities like Silesians, Cashubians, Lemkos, Jews, and Lipka Tatars who have been a part of Poland for years. Since 1990s, there have been small waves of migration from Africa and East Asia, including Vietnam, who have settled in the larger cities. Between 2014 and 2022, there was a mainly economic migration from Ukraine. Since the outburst of the Russian aggression on Ukraine, Ukrainian refugees may be spotted in all major cities. A lot of villages in Poland rarely have any foreign visitors, so most African or Asian people would get curious looks there - generally not because of racism, but only from pure curiosity. There are some people who don't accept foreigners, like the relatively small numbers of neo-Nazis or football hooligans, nationalists or chauvinists. Except for the radical views of those kinds of people who you can meet almost anywhere, Poles are generally a polite and tolerant nation. As a traveller you will likely be treated in a friendly way here (see "polska gościnność" - Polish hospitality). A common Polish adage says: "gość w dom, Bóg w dom" - guest at home: God at home. [[File:EuroPride 2010 Warsaw Poland 23.jpg|thumbnail|right|EuroPride in Warsaw]] ===LGBT=== LGBT issues remain very controversial, still very much taboo, and routinely exploited by conservative politicians (including the governing party until 2023) and media. Polish culture also has a long tradition of chivalry and strong, traditional gender roles. Poland is often considered the most conservative country in the European Union. In larger cosmopolitan areas, however, gays and lesbians shouldn't have a hard time fitting in, although visibly trans visitors may attract attention. By June 2020, around 100 different so-called "LGBT ideology-free zone declarations" had been made primarily in the southeast of Poland, including by five voivodeships: Małopolskie, Podkarpackie, Świętokrzyskie, Lubelskie, and Łódźkie. However, these declarations were generally considered ceremonial and the last remaining such declaration was formally abolished in April 2025. === Driving conditions === {{see also|Driving in Poland}} Poles drive reasonably predictable and generally stick to the traffic rules. However they tend to be in a state of constant hurry, nearly always driving about 10 km/h above speed limit and often keeping close to the next car, especially if one is driving slower. Ironically, the most dangerous behaviors usually happen during good weather, on long straight stretches of road, when impatient drivers want to overtake multiple cars. Congestion may be an issue, especially during holiday season in seaside and mountain resorts. Zakopane, Świnoujście and destinations north of Gdańsk tend to be affected the worst. Always allow some extra time for possibly unfavourable driving conditions. ===Strip clubs=== If you are approached by a stranger trying to get you to enter a strip club (sometimes presenting it as a cabaret or whiskey bar), refuse. It is not uncommon for strip clubs to fleece customers, especially foreigners. Some have taken to using spiked drinks to do so. Authorities have taken steps to shut down establishments engaging in such practices, but have not succeeded in eliminating it fully. ==Stay healthy== [[Tap water]] is safe to drink in entire Poland. If you stay in any larger settlement there is no reason to worry about water quality. Only complaint may be excessive chlorine treatment and resulting unpleasant smell. However in some rural locations residents may prefer to source water from well which usually will be contaminated with iron and unsafe to drink. Poland relies heavily on coal and wood for home heating and thus has a serious [[air pollution|smog]] problem, which is particularly pronounced in winter and in the southern regions, especially in mountain valleys. ==Respect== ===Etiquette=== Poles are generally old-fashioned about gender etiquette. It is customary to hold doors and chairs for women. Some men, particularly older men, may kiss a woman's hand when greeting or saying goodbye. Kissing a woman's hand is considered to be chivalrous by some, but is more and more often seen as outdated. Handshakes are acceptable; although some believe that men should not offer their hand to a woman - a handshake is only considered polite if the woman offers her hand to the man first. Do not ever handshake in gloves, it is considered insincere and rude. For a more heartfelt greeting or goodbye, some will hug and kiss three times, alternating cheeks, although this custom is pretty rare these days, particularly among the younger people. An occasional practice is for people to greet each other with a ''dzień dobry'' (good day) when entering elevators. You can also encounter people saying the same to tourists on mountain trails. Men should not wear hats indoors, in particular when entering a church (quite the opposite in case of synagogues, where men are required to wear headgear). Most restaurants, museums, and other public buildings have a cloakroom, and people are expected to leave bags and outerwear there. It is usual to bring a gift when invited to someone's home. Flowers are always a good choice and florists' kiosks are ubiquitous, just remember to buy odd number, even-numbered flower bouquets are reserved for funerals and anniversaries. Poles will often bring vodka or whisky, but this depends on the level of familiarity and the hosts' preference towards alcohol, so tread carefully. People's attitudes towards alcohol range from jolly and enthusiastic enjoyment in both practice and word to taking offence at the notion that Polish people would somehow be more prone to alcohol consumption. When visiting someone's home, it's polite to ask if you should take off your shoes. Many hosts won't care, but will appreciate you asking. It is advisable to refer to Poland (as well as to some other countries like the Czech Republic, Slovakia, or Hungary) as Central (+"and Eastern", if needed) Europe, and not only "Eastern Europe". Although not very offensive, "Eastern Europe" is old fashioned, harking back to the Iron Curtain times, thus some folks will be extra happy if you stick to "Central Europe", which is also used in scientific literature. As for the language matters: Poles cherish their language as they had to struggle hard to protect it during the long spells when under the foreign yoke: the Partitions of Poland and WWII. For example, do not use the Russian 'spasibo' or German 'danke' for 'thank you' just because you thought it was Polish or you didn't care. If you're not sure if your terms are actually Polish, ask about these first. Calling Polish towns and places by their (former) German names, when asking for directions (e.g. referring to Breslau instead of Wrocław) may cause confusion and may be regarded as intentionally offensive and disrespectful by the Polish people. ===Sensitive issues === ====Politics==== Domestic politics are both highly sensitive and polarised. Many Polish people have very strong feelings about the conservative, Christian party (the Law and Justice party, or PiS) and the more liberal, but divided, left. Tread carefully when expressing support or criticism of the government, as debates can become quite heated. The display of Soviet or '''communist symbols''' is illegal in Poland, with the exception of those located in the grounds of World War II cemeteries. Promotion of Communist, Nazi, Fascist or "other totalitarian" governments and their symbols is illegal under article 256 of the Polish penal code (Kodeks Karny), although there is a narrow range of possible exemptions. The majority of Poles are quite supportive of the EU, although exceptions can be found, particularly among supporters of the conservative party. ==== National issues ==== {{see also|Holocaust remembrance}} Given Poland's history of enduring turbulent events, the Poles understandably exhibit sensitivity towards various historical occurrences. You should avoid discussing the following topics as they can quickly unsettle people: * '''World War II''' — every Polish family had some member among the 5–6 million people who perished in the conflict, and the conflict resulted in Poland losing nearly 30% of its population. Polish society has not forgotten and forgiven the atrocities and horrors of the war. Remember that the display of Nazi symbols or denial of the Holocaust is '''illegal''' in Poland. * '''Nazi collaboration in Poland''', where there are debates about how many Poles could be described as “collaborators” and to what degree they collaborated. Generally though, implying that Polish people were instrumental in carrying out Nazi rule and the Holocaust can cause offense. * The Soviet Union's role in the '''Katyn Massacre''', during which approximately 22,000 Poles were massacred by the Soviets during World War II. * Anything regarding the '''Polish People's Republic''' — thousands of Poles were arrested, imprisoned, tortured, exiled, and mistreated by the pro-Soviet communist government. * '''The Smolensk air disaster''' that resulted in the death of Lech Kaczyński, the former president; his wife; and several other high-profile Polish government officials — in some circles, people believe it was orchestrated by Russia. * '''The Volhynia Massacre''', during which approximately 100,000 Poles were massacred by Ukrainian nationalists during World War II. * '''The Russia–Ukraine war''' — many Poles are supportive of Ukraine in the conflict but not out of support of Ukraine itself. * '''Poland's relationship with [[Russia]]''' — due to a history of domination by the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union, many Poles express feelings of antipathy and distrust towards Russia; therefore, it's wise to avoid being overly enthusiastic about Russia. * '''Poland's relationship with [[Ukraine]]''' — although relations have improved in the past few years, especially in light of the Russia-Ukraine war, many Poles express feelings of antipathy towards Ukraine. In particular, Ukraine's veneration of Stepan Bandera as a national hero deeply angers many Poles. * '''Poland's relationship with [[Belarus]]''' — the relationship between the two countries is profoundly tense. * '''Poland's relationship with [[Germany]]''' — although both countries are members of the [[European Union]] and NATO, many Poles feel that Germany has not done enough to acknowledge the harm it caused to Poland during World War II. In particular, Germany's refusal to compensate Poland for the damages and atrocities inflicted by the Nazis during World War II upsets many people. ====Religion==== Poland is one of the most religious countries in Europe and has often been referred to as "Rome's most faithful daughter". Most Poles are adherents of Roman Catholicism, and the Catholic Church enjoys a high level of social prestige and political influence in the country. Poles regard Roman Catholicism as a repository of Polish heritage and culture — during the Communist years, the Catholic Church played a big role in challenging the repressive nature of the Communist government. Certain topics such as abortion, sexuality, LGBT rights, or the use of soft drugs can evoke strong emotions and debates in Poland. Poland, by law, is a secular country. Younger Poles are more likely to be irreligious than their seniors. As ever, dress conservatively and behave appropriately when visiting a place of worship. ====LGBT travellers==== [[File:LGBT Free Zones Poland 2020 - Counties.png|thumb|LGBT ideology-free zones declared (as of January 2020) marked in red]] LGBT issues are controversial in Poland, and Poland is often ranked as one of the most homophobic countries in the [[European Union]]. About a 100 municipalities (encompassing a third of the country) have declared themselves as "LGBT-free zones", drawing strong condemnation from the European Union and other third-party governments. Such measures have been promoted and encouraged by the ruling party and the government, as they believe it is necessary to defend and protect traditional values. Although attitudes have been changing since the 2000s, public displays of same-sex affection, cross dressing, or openly discussing LGBT topics are likely to be met with disapproval or hostility in certain circles. Younger Poles are less likely to show hostility. Likewise, people in the west and in the cities tend to be more accepting than people in the east and in rural areas. === Miscellaneous === Under Polish law, people promoting Nazi-era slogans, symbols or gestures are liable up to 3 years in prison, a fine or both. The same penalty applies for Holocaust denial and promotion of similar totalitarian systems. It is illegal to drink alcohol in public outside of venues serving alcohol. Although often done by the locals, especially in parks and in some less congested city streets, the local police take a very strict approach to enforcement of this law. Drinking alcohol in any public place puts you at risk of a small fine (from 50 to 100 zł), being scoffed at by the City Guards, detained, and losing your booze. It's worth mentioning that some cities have zones where public drinking is legal e.g. schodki (''stairs'') on the west bank of the Vistula River in Warsaw. It is illegal to be drunk in public. If you are drunk and disorderly, you may be taken to a drunk tank (''izba wytrzeźwień''), where you will be treated as an alcoholic and won't be released until sober. You'll have to pay 250 zł for the experience. Possession of any amount of drugs is illegal and a criminal offence. This also applies to cannabis, with the sole exception being the owners of a medical prescription for it. Prostitution is legal, but any form of profiting from another person's prostitution or acting as an intermediary is illegal. Smoking is forbidden in bars and restaurants and generally in public buildings. It is also forbidden to smoke at or near bus stops. This rule, made to protect non-smokers, doesn't apply to smoking rooms. If you break the rule, you may have to pay 500 zł. ==Connect== ===Mobile phones=== There are numerous mobile phone operators in Poland: [http://plus.pl Plus], [http://www.t-mobile.pl T-Mobile], [http://www.orange.pl Orange] and [https://www.play.pl/ Play] are the most popular ones, with the offer enhanced by many virtual operators, usually cheaper, including free calls in a monthly package. LTE is available in every town and 5G is being implemented as of 2021. Domestic call rates are roughly the same across all services. Prepaid starter kits with SIM card (called ''pakiety startowe'') are widely available for reasonable prices (5–20 zł) in most shops, supermarkets and news agents. Accounts are valid for outgoing calls for few days, so it is good to fill them up for, lets say, 20 zł ("doładowanie" [do-wa-do-vanye] in Polish, be sure to give the value you want). Prepaid SIM cards ''must be registered with an ID card or passport'' to operate. This can be done in the majority of prepaid SIM card retailers, or in gas stations, post offices and cellular stores. Ask a local for help. Just about every shopping centre has at least one independent cellphone shop, the guys who run them are usually knowledgeable and have a range of cheap handsets. {{EU roaming}} ===Polish telephone numbers=== All telephone numbers in Poland are 9 digits long, and never start with '''0''' — although they used to do so. Sometimes numbers are written ''the old way'', that is often only the last 7 digits are listed, in which case you need to prefix the now obligatory area code (e.g. 22 — Warsaw, 61 — Poznań, 12 — Kraków) ''or'' a '''0''' is included in the beginning, in which case it must be skipped. It does not matter whether you call from a land-line or a mobile. There are some special numbers, notably: * ''800 xxxxxx'' — toll–free call from a land-line phone and from a phone booth, but may still cost something from a mobile phone * ''801 xxxxxx'' — reduced fare, costs as much as a local call from a landline phone at most (but will cost more from a mobile phone) * ''70x xxxxxx'' — premium fare, can be very expensive — read the fine print in that advert you've got the number from. On the other hand, cheap international calls can often be made through numbers beginning with 708. Also, texting (sending SMSes) to: * ''7xyy(y)'' and ''9xxyy(y)'' — Premium SMS, x is cost in złoty plus 23% tax, e.g. 72yy costs 2.46 zł, 70yy is 0.50 zł + 23% VAT = 0.62 zł, 910yy = 12.30 zł. * ''8xxx'' — is toll–free When calling abroad, use '''00''', or '''+''', and then country code. ===International calls=== To call abroad from Poland: * From a landline phone: ''00'' ''Country code'' Local number. * From a mobile phone: ''+'' ''Country code'' Local number. To call to Poland from abroad, dial ''48'', then the number ''without'' the leading ''0'', as if calling from a domestic mobile phone. International and roaming calls are expensive. To reduce your bill you can: * buy "phone cards" for international calls. * activate a Polish pre-paid account to make or receive calls (the cost can be as little as 15 zł). * talk over the Internet. WhatsApp and other chat and videocall apps are massively popular in Poland. ===Internet=== If you're bringing a laptop, Wi-Fi Hot-Spots are available in distinct places, sometimes free, otherwise not very cheap. Best chances of finding one are at airports, railway stations, in cafés, shopping malls, libraries, some universities, or central spots e.g. the market places, paid and maintained by the local governments. You can also ask in your hotel, but be prepared to pay. Most coffee shops and restaurants have Wi-Fi available for customers – usually password-protected. Mobile LTE/UMTS/HSPA is available in the cities, see section '''Mobile phones''' above for details or the short list below. * '''T-Mobile''' - Blueconnect Starter - cost: 25 zł [http://www.t-mobile.pl/pl/indywidualni/oferta/nowa_oferta/internet/na_karte/bez_urzadzenia/oferta] *'''[https://www.plus.pl/ Plus]''' - iPlus simdata - cost: 15 zł * '''Orange''' - Orange free na kartę - cost: 20 zł * '''Play''' - Play Online na kartę - cost: 19 zł ==Cope== ===Digits=== * In Poland a comma is used as a decimal point, and the space to group numbers. So, for example, '''''10 500,46 zł''' is ten thousand five hundred złoty and 46 groszy''. That said, the period is increasingly often used as the decimal point, especially on price tags and bills. Occasionally a dot is also used as a grouping character. ===Toilets=== The situation is not much different from most other European Union countries. In large cities, particularly centres, one should have no problem finding accessible public toilets. It can become tougher in smaller towns and away from tourist destinations. While standards may vary in terms of quality and age of fittings and cleanliness, there is always a sit-down flush toilet (squat toilets, prevalent in many post-Soviet countries, are almost unheard of in Poland), a basin with running water, toilet paper, soap/hand detergent and something to dry your hands with (paper towels or electric dryers). In some places with extremely heavy traffic or little maintenance, supplies may run out – it is best to have a pack of tissues handy, as any prudent traveller would. Some public toilets require a small fee, 1 or 2 złoty, but more publicly accessible toilets are free of charge than in some other European countries. Some toilets have an attendant collecting the payment. There are toilets at larger train stations and larger bus terminals, but they are often not very clean, in poor condition and, despite all that, will generally charge fees for use. Toilets at airports are generally free, both air- and landside, and in much better condition than at train or bus stations. Toilets can be found on board all long-distance and some modern local trains, as well as on board of some long-distance buses. In older train cars, toilets have often not been modernized since the cars went into use, but provide an acceptable experience (and toilet paper, soap and paper towels, except for very long routes when the train can run out of them before the staff gets a chance to restock at the end of the line). All sit-down eating places are required to provide a toilet for their patrons, and most do so without any extra charges. While signs usually clearly indicate those are for (paying) customers only, the staff would usually make no problems if you inquired politely if you could use it without ordering anything. In some popular places, like McDonald's, you may need a key or a code to access the toilet. Ask the staff for either (in fast food outlets, the code is often at the bottom of your bill). There are also free public toilets in large shopping centres and hypermarkets, but smaller establishments (supermarkets, street-level shops) do not provide such facilities at all. In case of larger events, organizers provide so called '''Toi-Toi''' portable toilets (from one of companies that service them). They are narrow plastic booths, usually blue, not very comfortable, often not very clean, and hardly ever with water or paper. There are also toilets at all but the smallest gas stations. Whether they are free of charge, as well as their standards, may vary greatly, but on the road those may be your only option. There are relatively few free-standing public toilets in cities. A better bet is to look for any of the above establishments. Usually you can also use a toilet in cafes, pubs, libraries or any other buildings open to the public. You should ask for permission (if there is anybody to ask) and in many cases will be guided to the right door. Toilets for women are marked with a circle on the door, and toilets for men are marked with a triangle. The Polish word for "toilet" is ''toaleta'' (t'o-ah-let-ah), and most people would understand the word "toilet" anyway. Also, the abbreviation ''WC'' is commonly used. ==Go next== The land border can be crossed to [[Germany]], [[Czechia]], [[Slovakia]], [[Ukraine]], and [[Lithuania]]. Traffic to [[Belarus]] and the [[Kaliningrad Oblast]] is severely restricted as of 2025. {{geo|52|19|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|Central Europe}} {{usablecountry}} nrxusr307lsiw1y7n8hiate25j6z4x5 5091352 5091215 2025-07-11T10:55:01Z Ibaman 195012 bad grammar. Undo revision [[Special:Diff/5081440|5081440]] by [[Special:Contributions/2A0B:89C1:3:0:0:0:0:A34E|2A0B:89C1:3:0:0:0:0:A34E]] ([[User talk:2A0B:89C1:3:0:0:0:0:A34E|talk]]) 5091352 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Kietlice banner.jpg}} {{otheruses}} [[File:Ayuntamiento Principal, Gdansk, Polonia, 2013-05-20, DD 01.jpg|thumbnail|right|[[Gdańsk]]]] [[File:Wieliczka salt mine.jpg|thumbnail|right|Wieliczka salt mine]] '''Poland''' ([[Polish phrasebook|Polish]]: ''Polska'') has a rich and eventful history, and a strong basis for its bourgeoning tourism industry. As one of Europe's most underrated countries, it offers a fair share of countryside, vibrant urbanity, pristine beauty and a culture in connection to its thousand-year history. Its heritage is reflected in its architecture, museums, galleries and monuments. Its landscape is varied, and extends from the [[Baltic Sea]] coast in the north to the Tatra Mountains in the south. In between, lush primeval forests are home to fascinating species of animals including bison in [[Białowieża]]; beautiful lakes and rivers for various water-sports, the best known of which are in [[Warmińsko-Mazurskie]]; rolling hills; flat plains; and deserts. Among Poland's cities you can find the perfectly preserved Gothic old town of [[Toruń]], Hanseatic heritage in [[Gdańsk]] and evidence of the 19th-century industrial boom in [[Łódź]]. Creative and enterprising, Poles continually come up with various ideas for events and festivals, and new buildings and institutions spring up almost before your eyes, so that every time you come back, you are bound to discover something new. ==Regions== {{Mapframe|52|19|zoom=6|staticmap=Poland regions travel map revised (Edited).png|width=500|height=550}} {{nowrap|Poland's administrative}} regions are called ''województwa'', abbreviated "''woj.''". The word is translated as ''voivodeship'' or ''province''. {{Regionlist |region1name=Central Poland |region1color=#bf97bf |region1items=[[Łódzkie]], [[Mazowieckie]] |region1description=Central Poland is focused on the capital city of [[Warsaw]], and [[Łódź]] which has a rich textile manufacturing and film-making heritage |region2name=Southern Poland |region2color=#629fc7 |region2items= [[Śląskie]], [[Opolskie]] |region2description=Home to spectacular mountain ranges, the world's oldest operating salt mines, fantastic landscapes, caves, historical monuments and cities. The magnificent medieval city of [[Kraków]] is Poland's most-visited destination. |region3name=Southwestern Poland |region3color=#d8a661 |region3items=[[Dolnośląskie]] |region3description=Colorful mixture of different landscapes. One of the warmest regions in Poland with the very popular, dynamic city of [[Wrocław]]. Within this region you will find Polish, German and Czech heritage. |region4name=Northwestern Poland |region4color=#71b37b |region4items=[[Lubuskie]], [[Wielkopolskie]], [[Zachodniopomorskie]] |region4description=A varied landscape, profusion of wildlife, bird-watcher's paradise and inland dunes. Its heritage is shaped by centuries as part of Germany. |region5name=Northern Poland |region5color=#dc858d |region5items=[[Kujawsko-Pomorskie]], [[Pomorskie]], [[Warmińsko-Mazurskie]] |region5description=Home to Poland's attractive seaside; sandy beaches with dunes and cliffs; lakes, rivers and forests. |region6name=Eastern Poland |region6color=#d5dc76 |region6items=[[Lubelskie]], [[Podkarpackie]], [[Świętokrzyskie]], [[Podlaskie]], [[Małopolskie]] |region6description=Very green area filled with lakes. It offers unspoiled nature and the possibility of camping in beautiful countryside. Unique primeval forests and picturesque rivers (e.g. Biebrza river) with protected bird species make the region increasingly interesting for tourists. }} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54158|fill=#bf97bf|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Łódzkie]], Central Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54169|fill=#bf97bf|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Mazowieckie]], Central Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54159|fill=#6698bb|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Małopolskie]], Southern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54181|fill=#6698bb|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Śląskie]], Southern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54150|fill=#d8a661|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Dolnośląskie]], Southwestern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54171|fill=#d8a661|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Opolskie]], Southwestern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54157|fill=#83bd8c|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Lubuskie]], Northwestern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54187|fill=#83bd8c|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Wielkopolskie]], Northwestern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54188|fill=#83bd8c|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Zachodniopomorskie]], Northwestern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54153|fill=#dc858d|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Kujawsko-Pomorskie]], Northern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54180|fill=#dc858d|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Pomorskie]], Northern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54184|fill=#dc858d|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Warmińsko-Mazurskie]], Northern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54155|fill=#d5dc76|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Lubelskie]], Eastern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54175|fill=#d5dc76|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Podkarpackie]], Eastern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54183|fill=#d5dc76|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Świętokrzyskie]], Eastern Poland}} {{Mapshape|type=geoshape|wikidata=Q54177|fill=#d5dc76|stroke-opacity=0.1|title=[[Podlaskie]], Eastern Poland}} {{clear|right}} ==Cities== [[File:Wroclaw - Uniwersytet Wroclawski o poranku.jpg|thumbnail|right|[[Wrocław]]]] <!--before adding new cities here, please discuss first on the Talk page--> * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Warsaw]]|url=|lat=52.229875|long=21.011654|wikidata=Q270}} (''Warszawa'') — capital of Poland, and one of the EU's thriving new business centres; the old town, nearly completely destroyed during World War II, has been rebuilt in a style inspired by classicist paintings of Canaletto. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Gdańsk]]|url=|lat=54.351991|long=18.646354|wikidata=Q1792}} — the former German city of Danzig is one of the old, beautiful European cities, rebuilt after World War II. It is a great departure point to the many sea resorts along the Baltic coast. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Katowice]]|url=|lat=50.264443|long=19.023717|wikidata=Q588}} — central district of the Upper Silesian Metropolis, both an important commercial hub and a centre of culture. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kraków]]|url=|lat=50.061734|long=19.937302|wikidata=Q31487}} — the "cultural capital" of Poland and its historical capital in the Middle Ages; its centre is filled with old churches, monuments, the largest European medieval market-place - and now with trendy pubs and art galleries. Its city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Lublin]]|url=|lat=51.247795|long=22.567639|wikidata=Q37333}} — the biggest city in Eastern Poland, it has a well-preserved old town with typical Polish architecture, along with unusual Renaissance elements. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Łódź]]|url=|lat=51.759008|long=19.455704|wikidata=Q580}} — once renowned for its textile industries, the "Polish Manchester" has the longest walking street in Europe, Piotrkowska Street, full of picturesque 19th-century architecture. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Poznań]]|url=|lat=52.406244|long=16.925646|wikidata=Q268}} — the merchant city, considered to be the birthplace of the Polish nation and church (along with [[Gniezno]]); presents a mixture of architecture from all ''epoques''. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Szczecin]]|url=|lat=53.427715|long=14.552327|wikidata=Q393}} — the most important city of Pomerania with an enormous harbour, monuments, old parks and museums. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Wrocław]]|url=|lat=51.110113|long=17.033416|wikidata=Q1799}} — an old Silesian city with great history; built on 12 islands, it has more bridges than any other European town except Venice, Amsterdam and Hamburg. [[File:Białowieski Park Narodowy03 23a.jpg|thumbnail|right|Bison in [[Białowieża National Park]]]] ==Other destinations== <!--before adding new destinations here, please discuss first on the Talk page--> *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Auschwitz|Auschwitz-Birkenau]]|url=|lat=50.035833|long=19.178333|wikidata=Q7341}} — An infamous complex of German Nazi extermination and slave labour camps that became the centre of the Holocaust of Jews during World War II. [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/31 UNESCO World Heritage Site]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Białowieża National Park]]|url=|lat=52.752128|long=23.879128|wikidata=Q6870388}} — a huge area of ancient woodland straddling the border with [[Belarus]]. [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/33 UNESCO World Heritage Site]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bory Tucholskie National Park]]|url=|lat=53.4358|long=17.303|wikidata=Q1619225}} — national park protecting the Tucholskie Forests. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kalwaria Zebrzydowska]]|url=|lat=49.866667|long=19.683333|wikidata=Q389860}} — monastery in the Beskids from 1600 with Mannerist architecture and a Stations of the Cross complex. [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/905 UNESCO World Heritage Site]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Karkonosze National Park]]|url=|lat=50.766667|long=15.65|wikidata=Q621423}} — national park in the [[Sudety]] around the Śnieżka Mountain with beautiful waterfalls. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Malbork]]|url=|lat=54.033333|long=19.05|wikidata=Q146820}} — home to the Malbork Castle, the beautiful huge Gothic castle made of brick and the largest one in Europe. [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/847 UNESCO World Heritage Site]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Słowiński National Park]]|url=|lat=54.703333|long=17.306944|wikidata=Q1572525}} — national park next to the Baltic Sea with the biggest dunes in Europe. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Wieliczka|Wieliczka Salt Mine]]|url=|lat=49.983039|long=20.055731|wikidata=Q472621}} — the oldest still existing enterprise worldwide, this salt mine has been exploited continuously since the 13th century. A UNESCO World Heritage Site. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Wielkopolski National Park]]|url=|lat=52.266667|long=16.783333|wikidata=Q101635}} — national park in Greater Poland protecting the wildlife of the Wielkopolskie Lakes. == Understand == {{quickbar|location=Poland_in_European_Union.svg}} Poland is located at the very centre of Europe with an area of 322,575 km². Poland's western regions, including large parts of [[Lower Silesia]], [[Lubuskie]] and [[Zachodniopomorskie]], were parts of neighbouring [[Germany]] at different periods of time. The natural border of mountain ridges separating Poland from its southern neighbours, the [[Czech Republic]] and [[Slovakia]], did not stop the cultural influence (and periodic warring). In the Middle Ages, Poland was part of a powerful Commonwealth with [[Lithuania]] that governed much of today's [[Belarus]] and [[Ukraine]]. The cultural evidence of it can be found closer to the present-day borders. Lastly, the entire eastern half of Poland used to be controlled by the Russian Empire, and there was a strong Soviet influence during the communist era, leaving behind many traces in both culture and built heritage. Poland has a very homogeneous society in terms of ethnicity, language and religion. The historical Republics of Poland, whose boundaries were very different from those of today, were very multi-cultural, and, for a period, Poland was known as Europe's most religiously tolerant. Poland held Europe's largest Jewish population, which was all but wiped out by the Holocaust of World War II. After the war the survivors were persecuted by the anti-Semitic communist government into leaving the country. Despite losing a third of its population during World War II, including a disproportionally large part of its elites, and suffering many economic setbacks as a Soviet satellite state afterwards, Poland in many ways flourished culturally in the 20th century. Paving the way for its fellow Eastern bloc states, Poland had a painful transition to democracy and capitalism in the late 1980s and 1990s. In the 21st century, Poland joined the [[European Union]] and has enjoyed continuous economic growth unlike any other EU country. This has allowed it to markedly improve its infrastructure and had a profound effect on its society. === History === [[File:02860 Kraków, zespół Wzgórza Wawelskiego.jpg|thumbnail|right|[[Kraków]] was the capital of Poland through most of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance]] ==== Early history ==== {{seealso|Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth}} [[File:Man in old town.jpg|thumbnail|right|King Sigismund II Vasa moved the country's capital to [[Warsaw]] in 1596]] Oldest continuously existing cities in Poland: [[Kalisz]] and [[Elbląg]] on the [[Amber Road]] to the Baltic Sea, were mentioned by Roman writers in the first century AD; while the first known settlement in Poland, [[Biskupin]], dates back to the 7th century BC. However, various Polish tribes have arrived in Poland only after 6th century AD. Mieszko I was the first common ruler of these tribes, uniting Poland in the second half of the 10th century, and adopted Catholicism as the state religion in 966 AD. First Piasts ruled from their home city of [[Gniezno]], however a century of civil unrest and destruction brought by wars forced them to move to less damaged [[Kraków]], which remained capital city of Poland for half a millennium. Poland experienced its golden age from the 14th to the 16th century, under the reign of King Casimir the Great and the Jagiellonian Dynasty, whose rule extended from the Baltic to the Black and Adriatic seas. In the 16th century, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth was the largest country in Europe; the country attracted many immigrants, including Germans, Jews, Armenians and Dutch, because of the freedom of confession guaranteed by the state and the atmosphere of religious tolerance, which was exceptional in Europe at the time of the Holy Inquisition. Under the rule of the Vasa Dynasty, the capital was moved to [[Warsaw]] in 1596. During the 17th and the 18th centuries, the nobility increasingly asserted its independence from the monarchy; combined with several exhausting wars, this greatly weakened the Commonwealth. Responding to the need for reform, Poland passed a constitution in 1791 that was a key reform among many progressive but belated attempts to strengthen the country during the second half of the 18th century. ==== Partitions and regaining independence ==== With the country in political disarray, various sections of Poland were occupied by its neighbours – [[Russian Empire|Russia]], [[Prussia]] (later [[German Empire|Germany]]) and [[Austro-Hungarian Empire|Austria]] – in three coordinated "partitions" of 1772 and 1793, and 1795. After the last partition and a failed uprising, Poland ceased to exist as a country for 123 years. However, this long period of foreign domination was met with fierce resistance. During the [[Napoleonic Wars]], a semi-autonomous Duchy of Warsaw arose, before being erased from the map again in 1813. Further uprisings ensued, such as the 29 November uprising of 1830–1831 (mainly in Russian Poland), the 1848 Revolution (mostly in Austrian and Prussian Poland), and 22 January 1863. Throughout the occupation, Poles retained their sense of national identity, and kept fighting the subjugation of the three occupying powers. [[Image:Warszawa - Plac Saski z lotu ptaka (1919).jpg|thumb|right|Warsaw in 1919]] Poland returned to the map of Europe with the end of [[World War I]], regaining its independence on November 11, 1918. In 1920–1921, the newly-reborn country got into territorial disputes with Czechoslovakia and, especially, the antagonistic and newly communist Soviet Russia with which it fought a war. This was further complicated by a hostile Weimar Germany to the west, which strongly resented the annexation of portions of its eastern Prussian territories, and the detachment of German-speaking Danzig (contemporary [[Gdańsk]]) as a free city. ====World War II==== [[World War II in Europe]] began with a coordinated attack on Poland's borders by the [[Soviet Union]] from the east and Nazi Germany from the west and north. Only a few days prior to the start of the war, the Soviet Union and Germany had signed a secret pact of non-aggression, which called for the re-division of the central and eastern European nations. Germany attacked Poland on 1 September 1939 and the Soviet Union attacked Poland on 17 September 1939, effectively starting the fourth partition. These harmonised invasions caused the re-established Polish Republic to cease to exist. Hitler used the issue of Danzig ([[Gdańsk]]) as a pretext to invade Poland, much as he used the "Sudetenland Question" to conquer Czechoslovakia. Many of World War II's most infamous war crimes were committed by the Nazis and Soviets on Polish territory, with the former committing the majority of them. Polish civilians opposed to either side's rule were ruthlessly rounded up, tortured, and executed. Nazi Germany established concentration and [[Holocaust remembrance|extermination camps]] on Polish soil, where many millions of Europeans — including about 90% of Poland's long-standing Jewish population and thousands of local [[Roma culture in Europe|Romanies]] (Gypsies) — were murdered; of these [[Auschwitz]] is the most infamous. The Nazis murdered about three million Polish Jews and about the same number of Polish non-Jews — not only people who actively opposed the Nazi occupation, but also people more or less randomly rounded up. Part of the Nazis' strategy was to attempt to annihilate all Polish intelligentsia and potential future leadership, the better to absorb Poland into Germany, so thousands of Polish Catholic priests and intellectuals were summarily murdered. For their part, the Soviets rounded up and executed the cream of the crop of Polish leadership in the part of Poland they occupied in the [[Katyń]] Massacre of 1940. About 22,000 Polish military and political leaders, business owners, and intelligentsia were murdered in the massacre, approved by the Soviet Politburo, including by Joseph Stalin and Lavrentiy Beria. The Soviets also murdered about 150,000 ordinary Poles and deported another 1,700,000 to Siberia between 1939 and 1941. World War II shattered and battered the country — Poland lost nearly 30% of its population, nearly all of its important cities were destroyed, lost control of significant portions of its territory, and was left impoverished and bankrupt. Following the war, Poland found itself compelled to assume the role of a Soviet satellite nation due to the Yalta and Potsdam agreements forged between the Western Allies and the Soviet Union. These historical junctures continue to be perceived by a significant number of Poles as a profound act of treachery carried out by the Allies. The inhabitants native to the former Polish regions in the east, which were subsequently annexed by the Soviet Union, were forcibly expelled, making way for the displaced German populations from the western and northern regions of the country. This forced displacement resulted in the uprooting of over 10 million individuals and served to impede the process of reconciliation between Poland and Germany. For a comprehensive understanding of the broader context, one can refer to the dynamics of [[Cold War Europe]]. [[File:Dvorec kultury i nauki.jpg|thumb|[[Warsaw]]'s Palace of Culture and Science is perhaps the most prominent monument to the communist era in Poland]] ====Communism (People's Republic of Poland)==== [[File:Kozłówka Palace - Gallery of socrealism - 05.JPG|thumbnail|right|Visit the museum in Kozłówka to experience a panoply of preserved socrealist monuments, ornaments and artwork.]] After World War II, Poland was forced to become a socialist republic. Between 1945 and 1953, pro-Stalinist leaders conducted periodic purges. In particular, members of the Polish Home Army and other partisan organizations that had opposed both Soviet and German domination of Poland were executed in large numbers. There were also pogroms after the war; the most notorious was the 1946 Kielce pogrom, which was allegedly incited by Joseph Stalin's NKVD secret police, though based on the traditional Christian blood libel against Jews and with very weak condemnation, at best, from Polish cardinals. The result of the pogroms and subsequent antisemitic policies of the communist government was that most Jewish survivors of Nazi persecution emigrated, effectively ending centuries of strong Jewish presence in the cultural and ethnic fabric of Poland. After the bloody Stalinist era of 1945–1953, Poland was tolerant and progressive in comparison to other Eastern Bloc countries. But strong economic growth in the post-war period alternated with serious recessions in 1956, 1970, and 1976, which resulted in labour turmoil over dramatic inflation and shortages of goods. Ask older Poles to tell you about the impoverished Poland of the Communist era and you'll often hear stories of empty store shelves where sometimes the only thing available for purchase was vinegar. You'll hear stories about back room deals to get meat or bread, such as people trading things at the post office just to get ham for a special dinner, or religious services held secretly in basements. During this dark period Catholic Church would become a refuge for many Poles as the sole institution that could resist the Communists. In 1978 a Polish cardinal, Karol Wojtyła, was elected as Pope of the Catholic Church, assuming the name John Paul II. He was an avid traveller and visited Poland nine times during his papacy (three of these during the Communist era). These visits were very popular, drawing millions of people to the streets to celebrate. This damaged the formally atheist Communist party as it had to cater to the Church demands.The role of both the Catholic Church and John Paul II makes them very important to most Poles, especially those who lived through the Communist era. In 1980, the anti-communist trade union, "[http://www.solidarnosc.org.pl/en/ Solidarity]" (Polish: ''Solidarność''), became the major driving force in a strong opposition movement, organizing labour strikes, and demanding freedom of the press and democratic representation. The communist government responded by imposing martial law from 1981 to 1983. During this period, the country again suffered from widespread poverty, thousands of people were detained, phone calls were monitored by the government, independent organizations not aligned with the Communists were deemed illegal and members were arrested, access to roads was restricted, the borders were sealed, ordinary industries were placed under military management, and workers who failed to follow orders faced the threat of a military court. Solidarity was the most famous of various organizations which were criminalized, and its members faced the possibility of losing their jobs and imprisonment. However, the heavy-handed repression and resulting economic disaster greatly weakened the role of the Communist Party. Solidarity was eventually legalized again, and shortly thereafter led the country to its first free elections in 1989, in which the communist government was finally removed from power. This inspired a succession of peaceful anti-communist revolutions throughout the Warsaw Pact bloc. [[File:Stary Browar down panorama 2007-06.jpg|thumbnail|right|Newfound economic freedom and EU membership has enabled cities like [[Poznań]] to flourish.]] ====Contemporary Poland (Third Republic of Poland)==== Nowadays, Poland is a democratic country with a stable and robust economy. It has been a member of NATO since 1999 and the [[European Union]] since 2004. The country's stability was underscored by the fact that the tragic deaths of the President and a large number of political, business and civic leaders in a plane crash in 2010 did not have an appreciable negative effect on the Polish currency or economic prospects. Poland has also joined the [[Travelling around the Schengen Area|Schengen Agreement]], with an open border to Germany, Lithuania, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Poland's dream of rejoining Europe as an independent nation at peace and in mutual respect with its neighbours has finally been achieved. However rural Poland and the smaller towns have been in decline since the 1990s due to migrants leaving the countryside looking for better jobs in the main cities like Warsaw or Krakow. In 2015–2023, Poland was ruled by the controversial Law and Justice party, which came into conflict with the [[European Union|EU]] on ''rule of law'' issues. The party remained the biggest party in the elections of 2023, but an opposition coalition (with 54% of votes) managed to form the new government. [[File:Stół wielkanocny 1.jpg|thumbnail|right|Easter is the time when Polish people can indulge in baking homemade cakes and then eating them!]] ===Holidays=== [[File:003 Weihnachtskrippe in der Sanoker Franziskanerkirche, 2013.jpg|thumbnail|right|Visit Polish churches during Christmastime to experience elaborate nativity scenes]] On public holidays, which including many Catholic holidays and important anniversaries, most service and retail outlets, other companies, museums, galleries, other attractions and public administration units, close entirely. Plan ahead for shopping, services or official business. Places to eat, gas stations and pharmacies generally remain open. Some small and almost all ''Żabka'' neighbourhood convenience stores stay open, but many may have shortened opening hours. In smaller towns and villages, the local gas station can be your only resort. Most means of public transport will run according to their Sunday schedule on public holidays, usually meaning less frequent operations. Some connections, e.g. peak bus lines, do not operate on such days entirely ("Sunday service"). If a public holiday falls on a Tuesday or Thursday, many Poles take a day off on the Monday preceding or Friday following to have a long weekend, so many companies and public administration units close on those days as well. Roads and trains may become congested on the days long weekends start or end. In tourist destinations, prices may rise and accommodation may be booked out long in advance. On the other hand, large cities often become relatively deserted. Catholic religious holidays are widely celebrated in Poland and many provide colourful and interesting festivities and include local traditions. Most of the population, especially in smaller towns and villages, will go to church on those days and participate in them. For Christmas and Easter, it is customary to join one's family for celebratory meals and gatherings that often bring together family members from far away, so many Poles will travel to their home towns or families out of their place of residence. Having celebratory dinners in restaurants is very rare, although many hotels and restaurants would offer Christmas and Easter meals. * '''New Year's Day''' (''Nowy Rok'') …. '''1 January''' is a public holiday, with celebrations taking place around midnight. * '''Epiphany''' (''Święto Trzech Króli'' or ''Objawienie Pańskie'') — '''6 January''' - is the first day of the carnival period. In many Polish cities, merry parades are organised to commemorate the biblical Wise Men. * '''Easter''' (''Wielkanoc'' or ''Niedziela Wielkanocna'') — scheduled according to the moon calendar, usually in March or April. Like Christmas, it is primarily a meaningful Christian holiday. On the Saturday before Easter, churches offer special services in anticipation of the holiday, including blessing of food; children bring baskets of painted eggs and candy to be blessed. On Easter Sunday, practicing Catholics go to the morning mass, followed by a celebratory breakfast made of foods blessed the day before. On Easter Sunday, shops, malls, and restaurants are commonly closed. * '''Lany Poniedziałek''', or '''Śmigus Dyngus''' — a public holiday on the '''Monday after Easter''', and also a holiday. It's the day of an old tradition with pagan roots: groups of kids and teens wander around, looking to soak each other with water. Often groups of boys will try to catch groups of girls, and vice versa; but innocent passers-by are not exempt from the game, and are expected to play along. Water guns and water balloons are common, but children, especially outdoors and in the countryside, use buckets and have no mercy on passers-by. (Drivers - this means keep your windows wound up or you're likely to get soaked.) * '''Labour Day''' (''Święto Pracy'') — '''1 May''' is a public holiday as well. Politically inspired parades and rallies are often organized, especially in larger cities, and it is best to avoid them as opposing political factions often collide and police will usually close off the area where parades and rallies are held. Combined with May 3 (see below), this holiday provides for a surefire long weekend in most years and will see many Poles enjoy a holiday outside of their hometowns. * '''Constitution Day''' (''Święto Konstytucji Trzeciego Maja'') — '''3 May''', celebrated in remembrance of the Constitution of 3 May 1791. The document was a highly progressive attempt at political reform, and it was Europe's first constitution (and world's second, after the US). Following the partitions, the original constitution became a highly poignant symbol of national identity and ideals. * '''Pentecost''' (''Zesłanie Ducha Świętego'' or ''Zielone Świątki'') — movable feast, celebrated '''7 weeks after Easter''', which is always on a '''Sunday'''. It is a relatively low-key religious holiday. Since this is a Sunday, it may make little difference in some cases, but in case of establishments normally open on Sundays you may find them closed on that day. The second day (Monday) is not a public holiday and not widely celebrated in Poland. * '''The Feast of Corpus Christi''' (''Boże Ciało'') — celebrated on the '''Thursday''' after Trinity Sunday, or '''sixty days after Easter'''. It is celebrated across the country; in smaller locations virtually the whole village or town becomes involved in a procession, and all traffic is stopped as the procession weaves its way through the streets. * '''Assumption''' (''Wniebowzięcie Najświętszej Marii Panny'') coinciding with ''Day of the Polish Military'' ('''Święto Wojska Polskiego''') — '''15 August''', commemorating the victory of the Polish Army over the invading Soviet (Red) Army in the Battle of Warsaw. The victory was attributed by the religious to the influence of the Virgin Mary. The day is marked with Catholic religious festivities and military parades. * '''All Saints Day''' (''Wszystkich Świętych'') — '''1 November'''. In the afternoon people visit graves of their relatives and light candles. After dusk cemeteries glow with thousands of lights and offer a very picturesque scene. If you have the chance, visit a cemetery to witness the holiday. Many restaurants, bars and cafés will either be closed or close earlier than usual on this holiday. * '''Independence Day''' (''Narodowe Święto Niepodległości'') — '''11 November''', celebrated to commemorate Poland's independence in 1918, after 123 years of partitions and occupation by Austria, Prussia and Russia. Some somber official celebrations, and another slew of politically-inspired rallies are bound to be held. There are also big patriotic demonstrations and marches in larger cities, especially in Warsaw, where over 100,000 people participate in the salt marsh soil of the Independence. It is calm and many foreigners participate in it. * '''Christmas Eve''' (''Wigilia Bożego Narodzenia'' or simply ''Wigilia'') — '''24 December''' is the year's most important feast for Poles. According to Catholic tradition, celebration of liturgical feasts starts in the evening of the preceding day (a vigil, hence ''wigilia''). In Polish folklore, this translates into a special family dinner, which traditionally calls for a twelve-course meatless meal (representing the twelve apostles), which is supposed to begin in the evening, after the first star can be spotted in the night sky. It is also a Polish tradition to not leave anybody alone on Christmas Eve, so Polish people tend to be extremely hospitable on the evening and on many occasions will invite their lonely friends to participate in the traditional dinner. It is also acceptable to ask your friends if you could join them if you're alone. There's also a tradition of Midnight Mass on that day (''Pasterka''), when Christmas carols are sung. * '''Christmas''' (''Boże Narodzenie'') — ''' 25 and 26 December'''. On Christmas Day people usually stay home and enjoy meals and meetings with families and sometimes close friends. Everything apart from essential services will be closed and public transport will be severely limited. * '''New Year's Eve''' (''Sylwester'') — '''31 December''' is ''not'' a public holiday, but many businesses will close early. Pretty much all hotels, restaurants, bars and clubs will host special balls or parties, requiring previous reservations and carrying hefty price tags. In cities, free open-air parties with live music and firework displays are organized by the authorities on central squares. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.poland.travel/en/ Polish Tourism Organisation website] ==Talk== {{see also|Polish phrasebook}} The official language of Poland is '''Polish'''. Virtually all official information is in Polish only, including street signs, directions, information signs, etc., as well as schedules and announcements at train and bus stations. Airports and a few major train stations usually do have information in English, though. Information signs in museums, churches, etc., signs are typically in multiple languages at popular tourist destinations, elsewhere in Polish only. The vast majority of young people who grew up after the fall of communism know English, usually at a decent level. Older Poles, however, especially those outside the main cities, will speak little or no English. However, it is possible that they speak either [[French]], [[German]] or [[Russian]], taught in schools as the main foreign languages until the 1990s. German remains very common, especially in Western Poland and tourist hotspots like Kraków and Gdańsk. However, speaking Russian to Poles remains a sensitive issue due to over a century of unwanted Russian and Soviet domination, so be sure to begin the conversation in Polish and ask if the person speaks Russian before proceeding, and only use Russian as a last resort. Czech and Slovak are West Slavic languages that share many similarities with Polish; if you speak either of those languages, you will recognise many cognates, and may be able to communicate with locals with some difficulty. People who speak Ukrainian or Belarusian might be able to get the gist of what is being said in Polish, but holding anything more than a basic conversation will be difficult. A few phrases go a long way in Poland. Polish people generally love the few foreigners who learn Polish or at least try to. Younger Poles will also jump at the chance to practise their English. Do your homework and try to learn how to pronounce the names of places. Polish has a very regular pronunciation, and although there are a few sounds unknown to most English speakers, mastering every phoneme is not required to achieve intelligibility; catching the spirit is more important. There are Polish language schools in [[Łódź]], [[Kraków]], [[Wrocław]], [[Sopot]] and [[Warsaw]]. == Get in == === Entry requirements === {{Schengen}} In addition to the ordinary Schengen visa waiver, citizens of [[South Korea]], the [[United States of America|United States]], and [[Israel]] are permitted to spend up to 90 days in Poland without a visa, ''regardless of time spent elsewhere in the Schengen Area.'' Time spent in Poland, however, does count against the time that would be granted by another Schengen country. Regular visas are issued for travellers going to Poland for ''tourism and business purposes''. Regular visas allow for one or multiple entries into Polish territory and a stay in Poland for up to 90 days. They are issued for the definite period of stay. When applying for a visa, please indicate the number of days you plan to spend in Poland and a date of intended arrival. Holders of regular visas are not authorized to work. Ukrainian citizens do not require a separate visa for transit through Poland if they hold a Schengen or a UK visa. [[File:Terminal A Warsaw Chopin Airport.JPG | thumb | 300px | Warsaw Chopin Airport]] === By plane === Most of Europe's major airlines fly to and from Poland. Poland's flag carrier is '''[https://www.lot.com LOT Polish Airlines]''', a member of Star Alliance, operating the Miles&More frequent flyer programme with several other European Star Alliance members. Most other European legacy carriers maintain at least one connection to Poland, and there are also a number of low cost airlines that fly to Poland including [http://wizzair.com WizzAir], [http://easyjet.com EasyJet], [https://www.norwegian.no/ Norwegian] and [http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair]. [[File:LOT - Polish Airlines - Polskie Linie Lotnicze Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner - SP-LRE - Flight LOT45 from WAW (14084309468).jpg | thumb | 300px | LOT is the Polish flag carrier ]] While there are many international airports across Poland, and international air travel is on a constant increase, [[Warsaw]]'s [http://www.lotnisko-chopina.pl/?lang=en Chopin Airport] ({{IATA|WAW}}) remains the country's main international hub. LOT flies e.g. to [[Beijing]], [[Delhi]], [[Toronto]], [[New York City|New York]] and [[Chicago]], while Qatar Airways and Emirates offer flights to their hubs in the Middle East, which allows connecting to their rich international networks. Most European airlines offer a connection to Warsaw, allowing you to take advantage of connecting flights via their hubs. Warsaw is the only city in Poland that has two international airports - Modlin Airport ({{IATA|WMI}}), a converted former military airfield, is close to Warsaw and normally used by low-fare carriers. Other major airports serviced by airlines providing intercontinental connections include [[Kraków]] ({{IATA|KRK}}), [[Katowice]] ({{IATA|KTW}}), [[Gdańsk]] ({{IATA|GDN}}), [[Poznań]] ({{IATA|POZ}}), [[Wrocław]] ({{IATA|WRO}}), [[Rzeszów]] ({{IATA|RZE}}), [[Łódź]] ({{IATA|LCJ}}) (due to proximity to Warsaw Chopin Airport, there are no flights to Warsaw from Łódź) Smaller regional airports offering international flights include: * [[Bydgoszcz]] ({{IATA|BZG}}) * [[Szczecin]] ({{IATA|SZZ}}) (intercontinental connections via Warsaw) * [[Lublin]] ({{IATA|LUZ}}) opened in late 2012, serviced by Wizz Air and Ryanair All of the above airports are also served by low-fare point-to-point carriers, flying to European destinations. The most popular connections out of Poland's regional airports are to the UK, Ireland, Sweden and Norway, where sizeable Polish minorities generate sustainable demand for air traffic. Flights are thus frequent and one can purchase a ticket at a very favorable rate. You can also enter Poland coming from alternative airports: * To the west: [[Berlin#By plane|Berlin]] ({{IATA|BER}}) * To the south-west: [[Dresden#By plane|Dresden]] ({{IATA|DRS}}) and [[Prague#By plane|Prague]] ({{IATA|PRG}}) * To the south: [[Ostrava#By plane|Ostrava]] ({{IATA|OSR}}) and [[Košice#By plane|Košice]] ({{IATA|KSC}}) * To the north-east: [[Vilnius#By plane|Vilnius]] ({{IATA|VNO}}), [[Kaunas#By plane|Kaunas]] ({{IATA|KUN}}) and [[Kaliningrad#By plane|Kaliningrad]] ({{IATA|KGD}}) === By train === [[File:Berlin Warsaw Express.JPG | thumb | 300px | Berlin-Warsaw Express takes 6 hours ]] Poland uses the west European railway gauge and trains rattle across the border from Germany, Czech Republic and Slovakia, with no formalities as these are all Schengen countries. On these routes look out for split-ticket deals, as you may be able to take a cheap local train to a border town then transfer to another (and see the border regions of [[Śląskie]], [[Dolnośląskie]] and [[Opolskie]] for example). The main direct routes are: * [[Berlin]] - [[Frankfurt (Oder)]] - Rzepin - Swiebodzin - Zbaszynek - [[Poznań]] - Konin - Kutno - [[Warsaw]], 4 a day, 6 hr. * [[Berlin]] - [[Frankfurt (Oder)]] - Rzepin - Swiebodzin - Zbaszynek - [[Poznań]] - [[Gniezno]] - Inowroclaw - [[Bydgoszcz]] - Tczew - [[Gdansk]] - [[Gdynia]], one a day, 6 hr. * [[Berlin]] - [[Frankfurt (Oder)]] - Rzepin - [[Zielona Gora]] - Glogow - [[Lubin]] - [[Legnica]] - [[Wrocław]] - [[Opole]] - [[Gliwice]] - Zabrze - [[Katowice]] - [[Kraków]], one daytime and one overnight, 7 hr 30 min. * [[Berlin]] - [[Szczecin]] has two direct services, 2 hr, but usually you change between local trains at Angermünde. * [[Budapest]] - [[Vac]] - Visegrad - [[Szob]] - [[Bratislava]] - Breclav - [[Ostrava]] - Bohumin - Chalupki - Wodislaw - Rybnik - [[Katowice]] - [[Sosnowiec]] - Dabrowa Gornicza - Zawiercie - Wloszczowa Polnoc - Opoczno Poludnie - [[Warsaw]], one daytime train (10 hr) which continues to Terespol (for Belarus), and one overnight (14 hr) terminating in Warsaw. At Katowice a portion of the daytime train splits for Kraków and Przemyśl (for Ukraine). * [[Vienna]] - Breclav then the same route via Ostrava and Katowice to Warsaw, 7 hr 40 min, one daytime train continuing to [[Gdansk]] and [[Gdynia]], and one overnight terminating in Warsaw. There are other connections via Kraków. * [[Prague]] - [[Pardubice]] - [[Olomouc]] - [[Ostrava]] - Bohumin - Chalupki - Wodislaw - Rybnik - [[Katowice]] - Myslowice - Jaworzno Szczakowa - [[Kraków]] - Miechow - Wloszczowa Polnoc - Opoczno Poludnie - [[Warsaw]], one daytime (8 hr 30 min) and one overnight (11 hr). * From Paris or Amsterdam travel via Berlin. The countries to the east all use the broader (Russian-style) gauge, so there is a change of trains and border formalities to factor into the timetable. A western gauge Rail Baltica is being built through the Baltic states and might, just might, be completed some time in the 21st century. * Vilnius - Kaunas - Białystok - Warsaw - Krakow trains run daily: you change at the border but it's a seamless connection. * [[Kyiv]] - Dorohusk - [[Chelm]] - Rejowiec - Trawniki - Swidnik - [[Lublin]] - Naleczow - Pulawy Miasto - Deblin - Pilawa - [[Warsaw]], 16 hr overnight, with daytime connections via [[Lviv]] and [[Przemyśl]]. * Trains from Kaliningrad, Moscow, Smolensk and Minsk no longer cross into Poland. Stations in Poland are relatively small and easy to navigate, though signage is just in Polish. Write down your destination and preferred time to show to ticket clerks, as trains have different prices, and your attempts to pronounce "Wrocław" will likely get you sent to Rouen. They'll show you the price on their calculator or till display, easier to grasp than their reply of ''trzydzieścipięćzłotychczterdzieściproszę!'' Credit cards are usually acceptable. See individual cities for which station to use: "Główny" means main station, but in Warsaw you want Centralna. === By car === You can enter Poland by one of many roads linking Poland with the neighboring countries. Since Poland's entry to the Schengen Zone, checkpoints on border crossings with other EU countries have been removed. However, the queues on the borders with Poland's non-EU neighbors, Ukraine, Belarus and Russia, are still long and in areas congested with truck traffic it can take up to several hours to pass. You can take a look at border wait times on official [https://granica.gov.pl/prognozy.php?v=en site]. === By bus === {{see also|Intercity buses in Europe}} The principal long-distance bus operator to Poland is [https://global.flixbus.com Flixbus]. As of 2021, their direct international routes are: : - from Berlin via BER airport and Poznań, four daily, 8 hr. : - from Munich via Nuremberg, Bayreuth, Chemnitz, Dresden and Wrocław, daily, 17 hr. : - from Tallinn via Riga, Kaunas, Suwałki and Augustów, daily, 17 hr. [https://www.flixbus.com/ FlixBus] and similar big operators are franchises, with real buses with real drivers run by subsidiary local firms. Others are [http://www.eurolines.com Eurolines], [http://www.ecolines.net/ Ecolines] and [http://www.sindbad.pl/ Sindbad]. === By boat === {{see also|Ferries on the Baltic Sea}} * '''From [[Sweden]]''': [[Ystad]] (7–9 hours, 215 zł) by [http://unityline.pl Unity Line]; [[Karlskrona]] (10 hours, 140-220 zł) by [http://www.stenaline.pl Stena Line]; [[Nynäshamn]] (18 hours, 230-270 zł), [[Visby]] (13½ hours, 170 zł), [[Ystad]] (9½ hours, 230 zł) by [https://polferries.pl/ Polferries] * '''From [[Germany]]''': [[Rostock]] (~15 hr) by [http://www.finnlines.com/ Finnlines] * '''With your own boat:''' many Baltic estuaries have marinas, with the largest in [[Szczecin]], [[Łeba]], [[Hel]], [[Gdynia]] and [[Gdańsk]]. Gdańsk has two yacht docks: one next to the old market square ([http://www.marinagdansk.pl/]), which is usually quickly overloaded, and one in the national sailing center next to the city center, close to the Baltic sea. The newest yacht dock is on the longest wooden pier in [http://www.sopot-marina.pl/ Sopot]. Although there are many sailors in Poland, marine infrastructure still needs to be improved. ==Get around== Polish road infrastructure is extensive but generally poorly maintained, and high speed motorways in place are insufficient. However, public transport is quite plentiful and inexpensive: buses and trams in cities, and charter buses and trains for long-distance travel. [[File:Boarding (2564643532).jpg|thumbnail|right|Poland is large enough for domestic flights to be a viable method of travelling]] ===By plane=== LOT Polish Airlines offers domestic flights between Warsaw Chopin Airport and the airports of Kraków, Katowice, Wrocław, Poznań, Szczecin, Gdańsk, Olsztyn (only in summer season), Zielona Góra, Rzeszów and on the route between Kraków and Gdańsk. The best prices are available in booking 60 days in advance. Prices are 60-130 zł. Ryanair offers daily flights from Warsaw Chopin to Gdańsk, Wrocław and Szczecin and on route between Kraków and Gdańsk. Prices start from 9 zł. Connections from Radom to Wrocław and Gdańsk are operated by [http://sprintair.eu/?lang=en Sprint Air]. There are no domestic flights to or from Warsaw Modlin, Łódź, Bydgoszcz and Lublin airports. Every Wednesday, LOT holds a 24 hours ticket sale for return flights originating at Warsaw airport and often some other Polish airports, also including some domestic connections. The discounted flights offered are usually a few months away from the date of sale, and the number of tickets and available dates is restricted, but if you are planning ahead on visiting Poland or other European countries, you may find this offer attractive. === By train === Inter-city routes are operated by [http://pkp.pl PKP] (Polskie Koleje Państwowe). Local routes are operated by Polregio, the brand name of Przewozy Regionalne, hived off from PKP in 2008. There are also several regional rail operators run exclusively by the voivodeships providing regional travel (like [http://www.mazowieckie.com.pl/ Koleje Mazowieckie], [http://koleje-wielkopolskie.com.pl/ Koleje Wielkopolskie], [http://www.arriva.pl/en Arriva RP], [https://www.kolejedolnoslaskie.eu/pl Koleje Dolnośląskie], [http://kolejeslaskie.com/ Koleje Śląskie], and [https://kolejemalopolskie.com.pl/ Koleje Małopolskie]). The principal rail corridors lie on international routes as described in Get in: * From Germany to [[Poznań]] - Konin - Kutno - [[Warsaw]] - Terespol and [[Białystok]] (for Lithuania and Belarus). * [[Gdynia]] - [[Gdansk]] - [[Bydgoszcz]] - Inowroclaw - [[Poznań]] - [[Wrocław]] - [[Katowice]] (for Czech Republic) - [[Kraków]]. * [[Gdynia]] - [[Gdansk]] - [[Warsaw]] - [[Kraków]]. * [[Kraków]] - [[Tarnów]] - [[Rzeszów]] - [[Przemyśl]] (for Ukraine). For example Warsaw-Kraków (every two hours) and Warsaw-Gdansk (hourly) both take under 3 hours. Tickets are cheap by west European standards. A day-trip between Warsaw and Kraków, three hours each way, in 2021 might be 100 złoty or €22. This means limited scope for discounts, but see below. Inter-city trains are modern, comfy and fairly punctual. On local lines there are still a few gnarly O-class trains that look like escapees from a heritage tramway, with old codgers in flat caps sitting on bench seats around the brake handle. ====Train types==== * '''EIP (Express Intercity Premium), EIC (ExpressInterCity), EC (EuroCity), and IC (Intercity)''' - express trains between metro areas, and to major tourist destinations. Reservations are usually required. Power points for laptops are sometimes provided next to the seat. Company: PKP Intercity. * '''TLK (Twoje Linie Kolejowe)''' - discount trains, slower but cheaper than the above. Not many routes, but a very good alternative for budget travelers. Reservations are mandatory for 1st and 2nd class. It uses older carriages that are not always suited to high-speed travel. There are also several night trains connecting southern Poland with the north. Company: PKP Intercity. * '''RE (RegioEkspress)''' - cheaper than TLK and of an even higher standard, but only 3 of these type are running: Lublin - Poznań, Warsaw - Szczecin and Wrocław - Dresden. Company: Przewozy Regionalne. * '''IR (InterRegio)''' - cheaper than TLK and RegioExpress but most routes are supported by poor quality trains. Company: Przewozy Regionalne. * '''REGIO/Osobowy''' - ordinary passenger train; usually slow, stops everywhere. You can also buy a weekend ''turystyczny'' ticket, or a week-long pass. Great if you are not in a hurry, but expect these to be very crowded at times. Company: Przewozy Regionalne; other. * '''Podmiejski''' - suburban commuter train. Varying degrees of comfort and facilities. Tickets need to be bought at station ticket counters. Some companies allow you to buy a ticket on board from the train manager, in the very first compartment. A surcharge will apply. * '''Narrow gauge''' - Poland still retains a number of local narrow-gauged railways. Some of them are oriented towards tourism and operate only in summer or on weekends, while others remain active as everyday municipal rail. See [[Polish narrow gauge railways]]. ====Tickets==== It's probably easiest to buy InterCity tickets on-line (see links below). You can also buy tickets on-line for Regio, RE, IR and TLK. An early booking of the Intercity trains (7/15 days before departure) will be rewarded with additional discount (20/30%). There is also a limited amount of reduced tickets in the EIP/EIC trains. Tickets for any route can generally be purchased at any station. For a foreigner buying tickets, this can prove to be a frustrating experience, since only cashiers at international ticket offices (in major cities) can be expected to speak multiple languages. It is recommended that you buy your train tickets at a travel agency or on-line to avoid communication difficulties and long queues. It may be easier to '''buy in advance''' during peak seasons (e.g. end of holiday period, New Year) for trains that require reserved seating. Tickets bought for E-IC, EC, EXpress, etc. trains are not valid for local/regional trains on the same routes. If you change trains between InterCity and Regional you have to buy a second ticket. * Timetable search [http://rozklad-pkp.pl/?q=en/node/143] (''in English, but station names in Polish'') * [http://www.pkp.pl PKP] information: +48 22 9436, international information +48 22 5116003. * [http://intercity.pl/en/ PKP Intercity] serves express connections. ''Tickets can be bought on-line'' and printed or shown to the conductor on a smart-phone, laptop or similar devices. If you book through the website, a page will appear after you have paid headed "Ticket" that is ''not'' actually the ticket. The ticket must have a QR code and will be found in your email inbox. * [https://bilety.polregio.pl/en/ Polregio (Przewozy Regionalne) tickets] for Regio, RE and IR. * [https://koleo.pl/en/ Koleo] domestic route and ticket search engine across all operators. Smartphone app is available. Tickets can be shown in the app or exported as PDF for storage on other devices or printing. As of April 2022 it is not possible to book sleeper or couchette cars, get those from PKP intercity. * [http://polrail.com/ Polrail Service] offers a guide to rail travel in Poland and on-line purchase of tickets and rail passes for Polish and international trains to neighbouring countries. There's a fee of around 22 zł for every ticket. * [http://polishtrains.eu PolishTrains] allows to search, book and buy train tickets to numerous Polish and European destinations. Comparison of many train carriers allows to choose the best travel solution and purchase ticket online in the best price. * Traffic info about all moving trains [https://portalpasazera.pl/en] - check, if the train has a delay If you travel in a group with the Regional, you should get a 33% discount for the 2nd, 3rd and 4th person (offer ''Ty i 1,2,3''). If you are a weekend traveller think about weekend offers, which are valid from Friday 19:00 until Monday 06:00: * for all Intercity trains (E-IC, Ex, TLK) ''Bilet Weekendowy'' (from 154 zł, reservation not included) * for TLK ''Bilet Podróżnika'' (74zł) + Regio ''Bilet Plus'' (from 17 zł) * for all Regional trains (REGIO, IR, RE) ''Bilet Turystyczny'' (from 79 zł) * only for Regio trains ''Bilet Turystyczny'' (from 45 zł) If purchased for a long weekend due to a national holiday, the ticket will also valid for the whole long weekend. Travellers under 26 years of age and studying in Poland are entitled to 26% discount on travel fare on Intercity's TLK, EX and IC-category trains, excluding the price of seat reservation. ===By bus=== Poland has a very well developed network of private charter bus companies, which tend to be cheaper, faster, and more comfortable than travel by rail. For trips under 100&nbsp;km, charter buses are far more popular than trains. However, they are more difficult to use for foreigners, because of the language barrier. There is an on-line timetable available. It available in English and includes bus and train options so you can compare: '''[http://en.e-podroznik.pl/ e-podroznik.pl]'''. Online timetables are useful for planning, however, there are multiple carriers at each bus station and departure times for major cities and popular destinations are typically no longer than thirty minutes in-between. Each city and town has a central bus station (formerly known as ''PKS''), where the various bus routes pick up passengers; you can find their schedules there. Bus routes can also be recognized by signs on the front of the bus that typically state the terminating stop. This is easier if picking up a bus from a roadside stop, rather than the central depot. Tickets are usually purchased directly from the driver, but sometimes it's also possible to buy them at the station. If purchasing from the driver, simply board the bus, tell the driver your destination and he will inform you of the price. Drivers rarely speak English, so often he will print a receipt showing the amount. Buses are also a viable choice for long-distance and international travel; however, long-distance schedules are usually more limited than for trains. '''[http://flixbus.com/ FlixBus (ex-PolskiBus)]''' takes a more 'western' approach - you can only buy tickets through the Internet and the prices vary depending on the number of seats already sold. They have bus links between Warsaw and most of the bigger Polish cities (as well as a few neighbouring capitals). For commuting within the city, you can use [https://jakdojade.pl/ Jakdojade] mobile app, where you can buy tickets and check schedule. ===By car=== {{see also|Driving in Poland}} [[Image:NowaMapaStan.svg|thumb|upright=1.2|Polish motorway network]] While the road network in Poland still lags behind many of its western neighbours, in particular [[Germany]], there has been continued significant improvement since the 2010s with the opening of many new motorway segments and refurbishments of some long-neglected thoroughfares that were used far above capacity. There are, however, still quite a lot of roads that are not up to snuff for the traffic they are supposed to carry. Some sections of motorways A1, A2 and A4 are tolled. Travelling east–west is now generally much easier than a decade prior, with [[Poznań]], [[Łódź]] and [[Warsaw]] connected to Polish-German border (direction [[Berlin]]) with the A2 (E30), and the southern major metropoles – [[Wrocław]], [[Katowice]], [[Kraków]] and [[Rzeszów]] – connected to Polish-German border (direction [[Dresden]]) and Polish-Ukrainian border (direction [[Lviv]]) by the A4 (E40). The main north–south routes A1, S3, S5, as well as the Warsaw–Rzeszów connection by the combination of S17 and S19, are opened to traffic on their primary sections as of 2022. However, S7 (linking Gdańsk, Warsaw, Kraków and the Polish-Slovak border) is notably not completed despite carrying high traffic volumes, and one needs to expect large traffic jams near Warsaw and Kraków if driving it during the rush hours or bank holidays. Some major roads, most notably DK1 Tychy–Bielsko Biała (part of the [[Silesia]]–[[Slovakia]] connection) and parts of DK7 north of Warsaw, south of Warsaw and south of Kraków are non-motorway-standard dual carriageways with at-grade intersections and pedestrian crossings. Most large and medium-sized cities have ring roads allowing you to bypass them, as do some of the smaller towns that are by the major roads. Some of the city bypasses are already past their capacity and large traffic jams form on them when the traffic in the city reaches high volumes. Most notably, in the rush hours one needs to expect large delays on A4 near Kraków and Wrocław, S6/S7 near Gdańsk and S8 near Warsaw. National roads are indicated by 1- or 2-digit numbers (prefixed with letter A or S in case of highways) on the red background and they are predominantly in good shape. Voivodeship roads are indicated by 3-digit numbers on the yellow background and their condition varies by region. Local roads are indicated by numbers that are used only for administrative needs, therefore are not placed on road signs. GPS navigations are notorious for leading through 'shortcuts' using such local roads in order to save several minutes compared to the main route. Unless there are traffic jams justifying changing the route, it is typically better to stick to the national or voivodeship roads rather than following the GPS, as numbered roads are often purposefully lead along slightly longer but higher-quality routes. ===By taxi=== Use only those that are associated in a "corporation" (look for phone number and a logo on the side and on the top). There are no British style minicabs in Poland. Unaffiliated drivers are likely to cheat and charge you much more. Like everywhere, be especially wary of these taxis near international airports and train stations. They are called the "taxi mafia". Because of travelers' advice like this (and word of mouth), taxis with ''fake'' phone numbers can be seen on the streets, although this seems to have decreased - possibly the police have taken notice. Fake phone numbers are easily detected by locals and cater for the unsuspecting traveler. The best advice is to ask your Polish friends or your hotel concierge for the number of the taxi company they use and call them 10–15 minutes in advance (there's no additional cost). That's why locals will only hail taxis on the street in an emergency. You can also find phone numbers for taxis in any city on the Internet, on municipal and newspaper websites. Some taxi companies, particularly in larger towns provide for a cab to be ordered on-line or with a text message. There are also stands, where you can call for their particular taxi for free, often found at train stations. If you negotiate the fare with the driver you risk ending up paying more than you should. Better make sure that the driver turns the meter on and sets it to the appropriate fare (''taryfa''): * ''Taryfa'' 1: Daytime within city limits * ''Taryfa'' 2: Nights, Sundays and holidays within city limits * ''Taryfa'' 3: Daytime outside city limits * ''Taryfa'' 4: Nights, Sundays and holidays outside city limits The prices would vary slightly between the taxi companies and between different cities, and there is a small fixed starting fee added on top of the mileage fare. When crossing city limits (for example, when traveling to an airport outside the city), the driver should change the tariff at the city limit. Every taxi driver is obliged to issue a receipt when asked (at the end of the ride). You can inquire driver about a receipt (''rachunek'' or ''paragon'') before you get into cab, and resign if his reaction seems suspicious or if he refuses. Ride-hailing is available in Poland and the following are the most anticipated providers: * {{listing | type=go | name=Bolt | alt= | url=https://bolt.eu | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-07-09 | content=Includes many towns. }} * {{go | name=Uber | alt= | url=https://www.uber.com/global/en/r/poland/cities | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-01 | content=Works in all voivodeship capitals and some larger cities. }} ===By bicycle=== [[Cycling]] is a good method to get impression of the scenery in Poland. Especially in the south you can find some nice places for bicycling; e.g. along the rivers Dunajec (from Zakopane to Szczawnica) or Poprad (Krynica to Stary Sącz) or Lower Silesia (Złotoryja - Swierzawa - Jawor). Specially mapped bike routes are starting to appear and there are specialized guide books available so ask a bicycle club for help and you should be just fine. Away from roads which join major cities and large towns you should be able to find some great riding and staying at ''agroturystyka'' (room with board at a farmer's house, for example) can be a great experience. Cycling infrastructure is hit or miss with some cities and towns investing a lot into cycling while others do not care at all. There is no nationwide cycling network, it's more a patchwork of different local systems with varying build quality. Over the last few years, the infrastructure has been rapidly improving, and cycling paths along busy highways are becoming more common (though by no means universal). Expect some sudden dead ends. Markings of bike trails are pretty much close to non-existent, so always take a map with you. As Middle European countries go, Polish drivers are generally careful around cyclists. Still, you may want to avoid "droga krajowa" (DK) and "droga wojewódzka" (DW) types of roads as these are subject to heavy traffic and usually lack both hard shoulder and bike lanes which make them dangerous to cycling. In general plan your trip far ahead to avoid all problems mentioned above. Bicycles in Poland are obliged to have at least one working brake and a bicycle bell. At night lights are mandatory. You do not need bike helmet though. Signal turns with left or right hand depending on direction you are going. You are legally allowed to drive on sidewalk if weather conditions are bad, you drive with a child below age 10 on its own bike, or if speed limit is above 50 km/h and the sidewalk is at least 2 meters wide. Look out for bike lanes with signs where pedestrians and bicycle are shown together or aligned horizontally, as these roads are not bike lanes but mixed pedestrian-bicycle lanes where pedestrians have right of way. Put your safety above driving legally as police rarely cares about fining cyclists. Bike sharing systems (''system roweru miejskiego'') exist in most Polish major cities. It is a self-service system in which you can rent a bike on 24/7 basis from early spring to the end of autumn, with rental fees charged according to local tariffs. First 20 minutes of a rent is usually free of charge. Charge for next 40 minutes is 1-2 zł, then every consecutive hour 3-4 zł. The major system operator in Poland is [http://nextbike.pl Nextbike]. You should register online to get an account, make pre-payment (usually 10 zł) and then can rent bikes in all cities in which this system exists (including towns in Germany and other Central European countries). ===By thumb=== [[Hitchhiking]] in Poland is (on average) OK. Yes, it's slower than its Western (Germany) and Eastern (Lithuania) neighbors, but your waiting times will be quite acceptable! The best places to be picked up at are the main roads, mostly routes between Gdańsk - Warsaw - Poznań and Kraków. Use a cardboard sign and write the desired destination city name on it. Do not try to catch a lift where it is forbidden to stop. Look on the verge of the road and there should be a dashed line painted there, not a solid one. As in any country, you should be careful, there are several reports of Polish hitchhiking trips gone awry, so take basic precautions and you should be as right as rain. ==See== Ever since Poland joined the [[European Union]], international travellers have rapidly rediscovered the country's rich cultural heritage, stunning historic sites and just gorgeous array of landscapes. Whether you're looking for architecture, urban vibes or a taste of the past: Poland's bustling cities and towns offer something for everyone. If you'd rather get away from the crowds and enjoy nature, the country's vast natural areas provide anything from dense forests, high peaks and lush hills to beaches and lake reserves. ===Cities=== [[File:Kraków - Kościół pw. Św. Piotra i Pawła 01.jpg|thumb|upright|Pay attention to the remarkable details on Kraków's historic buildings]] Most of the major cities boast lovely old centres and a range of splendid buildings, some of them World Heritage sites. Many old quarters were heavily damaged or even destroyed in WWII bombings, but were meticulously rebuilt after the war, using the original bricks and ornaments where possible. Although remains of the Soviet Union and even scars of the Second World War are visible in most of them, the Polish cities offer great historic sight seeing while at the same time they have become modern, lively places. The capital, '''[[Warsaw]]''', has one of the best '''old centres''' and its many sights include the ancient city walls, palaces, churches and squares. You can follow the '''Royal Route''' to see some of the best landmarks outside the old centre. The old city of '''[[Kraków]]''' is considered the country's cultural capital, with another gorgeous historic centre, countless monumental buildings and a few excellent museums. Just 50&nbsp;km from there is the humbling '''[[Auschwitz]]''' concentration camp which, due to the horrible events it represents, leaves an impression like no other World Heritage site does. The ancient '''Wieliczka salt mine''' is another great daytrip from Kraków. Once a Hanseatic League-town, the port city of '''[[Gdańsk]]''' boasts many impressive buildings from that time. Here too, a walk along the Royal Road gives a great overview of notable sights. '''[[Wrocław]]''', the former capital of [[Silesia]], is still less well-known but can definitely compete when it comes to amazing architecture, '''Centennial Hall''' being the prime example. Its picturesque location on the river Oder and countless bridges make this huge city a lovely place. The old town of '''[[Zamość]]''' was planned after Italian theories of the "ideal town" and named "a unique example of a Renaissance town in Central Europe" by UNESCO. The stunning medieval city of '''[[Toruń]]''' has some great and original Gothic architecture, as it is one of the few Polish cities to have escaped devastation in WWII. Other interesting cities include [[Poznań]] and [[Lublin]]. ===Natural attractions=== [[Image:D5sp-czarny.jpg|thumb|right|Tatra National Park]] With 23 national parks and a number of landscape parks spread all over the country, natural attractions are never too far away. [[Białowieża National Park]], on the [[Belarus]] border, is a World Heritage site for it comprises the last remains of the primeval forest that once covered most of Europe. It's the only place where European bison still live in the wild. If you're fit and up for adventure, take the dangerous '''Eagle's Path''' (Orla Perć) in the [[Tatra National Park (Poland)|Tatra Mountains]], where you'll also find Poland's highest peak. [[Pieniński National Park]] boasts the stunning '''Dunajec River Gorge''' and [[Karkonoski National Park]] is home to some fabulous water falls. The mountainous [[Bieszczady National Park]] has great hiking opportunities and lots of wild life. [[Wielkopolski National Park]] is, in contrast, very flat and covers a good part of the pretty '''Poznań Lakeland'''. The Masurian Landscape Park, in the [[Masuria|Masurian Lake District]] with its 2000 lakes, is at least as beautiful. [[Bory Tucholskie National Park]] has the largest woodland in the country and has a bunch of lakes too, making it great for bird watching. The two national parks on Poland's coast are also quite popular: Wolin National Park is on an island in the north-west, [[Słowiński National Park]] holds some of the largest sand dunes in Europe. ===Castles & other rural monuments=== [[File:Panorama of Malbork Castle, part 3.jpg|thumb|right|Malbork castle]] The Polish countryside is lovely and at times even gorgeous, with countless historic villages, castles, churches and other monuments. Agrotourism is therefore increasingly popular. If you have a taste for cultural heritage, the south western parts of the country offer some of the best sights, but there's great stuff in other areas too. The impressive Gothic '''Wawel Castle''' in [[Kraków]] may be one of the finest examples when it comes to Poland's castles, but most of the others are in smaller countryside towns. The large, red brick '''[[Malbork]]''' castle (in northern Poland) is perhaps the most stunning in the country, built in 1406 and today the world's biggest brick Gothic castle. The castle of '''Książ''' in [[Wałbrzych]] is one of the best examples in historic Silesia, which also brought forward the now semi-ruined '''Chojnik castle''', on a hill above the town of Sobieszów and within the [[Karkonoski National Park]]. After surviving battles and attacks for centuries, it was destroyed by lightning in 1675 and has been a popular tourist attraction since the 18th century. The picturesque '''Czocha Castle''' near Lubań originates from 1329. A bit off the beaten track are the ruins of '''Krzyżtopór''' castle, in a village near Opatów. The '''[[Lesser Poland|Wooden Churches of Southern Lesser Poland]]''' are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, just like the '''Churches of Peace''' in [[Jawor]] and [[Swidnica]]. The '''Jasna Góra Monastery''' in [[Częstochowa]] and the beautiful, World Heritage listed '''[[Kalwaria Zebrzydowska]] monastery''' are famous pilgrimage destinations. The lovely '''Muskau Park''' in [[Łęknica]], on the German border, has fabulous English gardens and is a UNESCO listing shared with [[Germany]]. Poland also shares a world heritage site with Ukraine; the [[Wooden tserkvas of the Carpathian region]]. 8 of 16 of these churches are in southeastern Poland, in the [[Lubelskie]], [[Podkarpackie]] and [[Małopolskie]] regions. [[File:2014 Pole uprawne w Raszkowie.jpg|thumbnail|right|The original ''Polans'' were "people of the fields"]] ===Countryside=== The countryside throughout Poland is lovely and relatively unspoiled. Poland has a variety of regions with beautiful landscapes and small-scale organic and traditional farms. Travelers can choose different types of activities such as bird watching, cycling or horseback riding. Culturally, you can visit or experience many churches, museums, ceramic and traditional basket-making workshops, castle ruins, rural centers and many more. A journey through the Polish countryside gives you a perfect opportunity to enjoy and absorb local knowledge about its landscape and people. ==Do== * Travel one of the '''European Cultural Routes''' that cross Poland: for example '''Cisterian Route''' * '''Watch football:''' Ekstraklasa is the top tier of soccer in Poland, with 16 teams representing all the major cities. The playing season is July to April with a long winter break. The national team usually play home games at Stadion Narodowy (National Stadium) in Warsaw. * '''Cycling:''' you can bike through Poland, there are five EuroVelo trails going through nearly every part of country. However, infrastructure may be a bit lacking outside major cities. ===Canoeing=== Rent a canoe at local tourism agency and swim on one of many relatively pristine Polish rivers. Agencies provide pickup of canoes after finished trip and return to base. For those feeling more adventurous, you can swim over multiple days and combine it with camping on dedicated sites. Best routes for canoeing are located in northern Poland, especially in Pomerania region, where rivers are wide, but not too wide and offer reasonable difficulty so as to not make your route too boring or dangerous. If you wish to contemplate nature consider rivers in national parks, for example: [[Drawa National Park|Drawa]], [[Biebrza National Park|Biebrza]], and [[Bory Tucholskie National Park|Brda]]. Other interesting options are Barycz and its Milicz ponds, and Pilica, both in southern parts of the country. ===Hiking=== [[File:Polana Strążyska, widok na Giewont.jpg|thumb|Hiking is a common way to spend summer holiday in Poland. Giewont is especially popular among tourists.]] There are many mountain trails for casual summer hike in southern Poland. Most of them can be scaled by any healthy, inexperienced person in a day. Remember to bring waterproof jacket, good shoes and something warmer just in case it starts raining or temperature suddenly drops. Relatively easy mountains can be found in [[Karkonosze National Park]], [[Table Mountains National Park]] and in [[Lower Silesian Voivodeship|Kłodzko Land]]. Trails here are usually well marked and often finish with shelter close to the peak where you can refill or even sleep if weather is too troubling. More difficult routes are in [[Tatra National Park (Poland)|Tatra mountains]] which often pass through exposed rock and ice (lasting up to June). They also have good infrastructure with abundant supports and are well marked, though crowds may be huge. You can also keep to the mountainous valleys which are less demanding and offer just as breathtaking views. If you prefer more peace and quiet then [[Bieszczady National Park]] should provide you with some. Stock well with supplies as shelters are rare here. Other choices are [[Babia Góra National Park]] in [[Silesian Voivodeship|Silesia]]. [[Gorce National Park|Gorce]] and [[Pieniny National Park]] in [[Małopolskie]] with views of Tatras and the low and completely forested [[Magura National Park|Magura]] and [[Swietokrzyski National Park]] hills. The most crowded and scenic hikes are [[Hiking from Zakopane to Giewont|Giewont]] in Tatras and Śnieżka in Karkonosze. ==Learn== Education is taken ''very seriously'' in Poland, and the country is home to many of Europe's oldest universities. Poles typically attain excellent results at international competitions around the globe, and the country's educational system is often considered to be one of the best systems in the world. It is obligatory for every Pole to receive an education until they are 18 years old. At the end of compulsory schooling, many Poles take the ''matura'' exam, an end of school exam that will determine their university admissions. The '''[http://www.uj.edu.pl/ Jagiellonian University]''', founded in 1364, is one of the oldest universities in the world. The '''[https://en.uw.edu.pl/ University of Warsaw]''', founded in 1816, is widely regarded as the most prestigious institution of higher education in Poland. ==Work== Citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland can work in Poland without having to secure a work permit. Everyone else, however, needs to apply for a work permit. Although Poland has one of the best-performing economies in the world, finding a job can be challenging. Many job postings are in Polish and usually require at least communicative knowledge of this language. Salaries tend to be lower than in Western Europe and positions are usually boring outsourcing jobs. Jobs are concentrated in five cities (Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław, Gdańsk, Poznań) with domination of the capital city. Typical occupations include: IT, accounting, HR, finance and logistics. If you do not know Polish this is your best bet. Outside of these large cities good paying jobs, especially not requiring Polish knowledge are scarce and you may prefer to work remote directly for Western companies. Knowledge of German can significantly increase your salary and improve your chances on Polish job market as it is main trading partner of Poland and Poles are not very fond of this language. TEFL courses (that's Teaching English as a Foreign Language) are run in many cities across Poland. Even if you don't have a working visa or Polish citizenship, it should be no problem for you to offer private lessons. In general students, private and in classes, are very friendly toward their teachers, inviting them for dinner or drinks, and sometimes acting quite emotional during their last lesson. Post your services on telephone poles and bus stops with an email or phone number. [http://ekorki.pl Ekorki] is good if you're looking for longer term teaching gigs. It is a little bit like Monster.com in the US. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Polish złoty | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;zł | date=January 2025 | USD=4.14 | EUR=4.27 | GBP=5.14 | CHF=4.54 | SEK=0.37 | DKK=0.57 | NOK=0.36 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/pln-polish-zloty XE.com]}} [[Image:Polish-Banknote-100zl.jpg|thumb|upright=1.3|Polish 100 zł banknote]] The legal tender in Poland is the '''Polish złoty''', pronounced ''zwoty''. It is denoted by the symbol "'''zł'''" (ISO code:: '''PLN'''). The złoty is divided into 100 '''groszy''' (see infobox for details). In 1995, 10,000 old złoty were replaced by one new złoty. When it joined the EU, Poland committed to adopting the euro, however it is unlikely to happen in near future as most political options quietly or vigorously oppose adoption. Coins come in denominations of 1 grosz, 2 grosze, 5, 10, 20 and 50 groszy, 1 złoty, 2 złote (yellow ring with silver center) and 5 złotych (silver ring with yellow center). Banknotes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 złotych. ====Money exchange==== Private currency exchange offices (Polish: ''kantor'') are very common, and offer euro or US dollar exchanges at rates that are usually comparable to commercial banks. Exchanges in tourist hot-spots, such as the train stations or popular tourist destinations, tend to overcharge. Avoid "Interchange" Kantor locations, easily recognized by their orange color; the rates they offer are very bad. {{Infobox|Cash|Polish has two types of plural numbers, which you are likely to encounter when dealing with currency. Here are the noun forms to expect: * Singular: 1 '''złoty''', 1 '''grosz''' * Nominative plural: 2 - 4 '''złote''', '''grosze''', then 22 - 24, 32 - 34, etc. * Genitive plural: 5 - 21 '''złotych''', '''groszy''', then 25 - 31, 35 - 41, etc. }} ====ATMs==== There is an extensive network of cash machines or ATMs (Polish: ''bankomat''). The ATMs of '''Santander''' do not charge a fee for withdrawing money with a foreign Visa or Mastercard. Decline the currency conversion as there is a big markup fee. Silesa Bank/PlanetCash lets you choose between 9 zł or 11%. Most of the other banks, if not all, charge a fee of about 15-18 zł and/or about 12-14% conversion fee. (updated July 2022) ====Credit and debit cards==== Credit and debit cards can be used to pay almost everywhere in the big cities. Even single bus ride tickets can be paid for by cards in major cities provided the passenger buys them in vending machines at bus stops. The exception would be small businesses and post offices where acceptance is not completely universal. Popular cards include ''Visa'', ''Visa Electron'', ''MasterCard'' and ''Maestro''. ''AmEx'' and ''Diners' Club'' can be used in a few places (notably the big, business-class hotels) but are not popular and you should not rely on them for any payments. In some merchants you will be given an option to have the card bill you in złoty or your home currency directly. In the former, your bank will convert the transaction for you (subject to the foreign exchange charges it sets) whereas in the latter, the rates set are usually worse than what your bank uses; hence choose to be charged in złoty. ====Cheques==== Cheques are not used. Local banks do not issue cheque books to customers and stores do not accept them. ===Tipping=== When you're paying for drinks or a meal in restaurants or bars and you are handed a receipt, you should give the amount you have to pay and wait for the change. If you give the money and say "thank you" it will be treated as a "keep the change" type of tip. This also goes for taxis. The average tip is around 10% of the price. It's polite to leave a tip, but it's not uncommon to ignore this practice. You can tip tour guides and drivers too, but only if you are happy with the service they have provided. ===Exports=== It is illegal to export goods older than 55 years that are of ''any'' historic value. If you intend to do so you need to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage. ===Shopping=== {{infobox|Shopping on Sundays|There is a ban on trading on Sundays in Poland (except for designated "trade Sundays" when it's allowed - usually preceding major holidays). Shopping malls, supermarkets and smaller shops are closed. Restaurants, online stores, filling stations (including their shops), some pharmacies, bakeries and post offices remain open.}} Prices in Poland are among the lowest in Europe. '''Supermarkets''' are dominated by western chains: Biedronka, Lidl, Carrefour, Auchan, although the Polish-founded Dino and Stokrotka chains are also quite widespread, especially in the countryside. Poles also do often shop at local '''grocery stores''' for bread, meat, fresh dairy, vegetables and fruits - goods for which freshness and quality is essential. The Żabka chain of convenience stores is dominant though - in most places you can find few Żabka stores within walking distance. Many towns, and larger suburbs, hold traditional weekly '''town markets''', similar to farmers' markets popular in the West. Fresh produce, baker's goods, dairy, meat and meat products are sold, along with everything from flowers and garden plants to Chinese-made clothing and bric-a-brac. In season wild mushrooms and forest fruit can also be bought. Markets are held on Thursdays, Fridays or Saturdays and are a great way to enjoy the local colour. Prices are usually set though you can try a little good-natured bargaining if you buy more than a few items. ==Eat== {{Infobox|Tipping|For the most part, Polish restaurants and bars do not include gratuity in the total of the check, so your server will be pleased if you leave them a tip along with the payment. On average, you should tip 10% of the total bill. If you tip 15% or 20%, you probably should have received excellent service. Also, saying "''Dziękuję''" ("thank you") after paying means you do not expect any change back, so watch out if you're paying for a 10 zł coffee with a 100 zł bill. With all that said, many Poles may not leave a tip, unless service was exceptional. Poles don't usually tip bar staff.}} Poles take their meals following the standard continental schedule: a light breakfast in the morning (usually some sandwiches with tea/coffee), then a larger lunch (or traditionally a "dinner") at around 13:00-14:00, then a supper at around 19:00. It is not difficult to avoid meat, with many restaurants offering at least one vegetarian dish. Most major cities have some exclusively vegetarian restaurants, especially near the city centre. Vegan options remain extremely limited, however. [[File:Pierogi z kaszanka.jpg|thumbnail|right|Pierogi]] ===Traditional local food=== [[File:Bigos polonia.jpg|thumbnail|right|Bigos]] Traditional Polish cuisine tends to be hearty, rich in meats, sauces, and vegetables; sides of pickled vegetables are a favourite accompaniment. It is often described as a cross between German and Russian cuisines, though it also has unique dishes not found in any other cuisines. Modern Polish cuisine, however, tends towards greater variety, and focuses on healthy choices. In general, the quality of "store-bought" food is very high, especially in dairy products, baked goods, vegetables and meat products. [[File:Paradajz corba.jpg|thumbnail|Tomato soup (''pomidorowa'') is so popular in Poland that it even has its own fan clubs]] A dinner commonly includes the first course of soup, followed by the main course. Among soups, '''barszcz czerwony''' (red beet soup, also known as borscht) is perhaps the most recognizable: a spicy and slightly sour soup, served hot. It's commonly poured over dumplings ('''barszcz z uszkami''' or '''barszcz z pierogami'''), or served with a fried pâté roll ('''barszcz z pasztecikiem'''). Other uncommon soups include '''zupa ogórkowa''', a cucumber soup made of a mix of fresh and pickled cucumbers; '''zupa grzybowa''', typically made with wild mushrooms; also, '''flaki''' or '''flaczki''' - well-seasoned tripe. The most common in restaurants is the '''żurek''', a sour-rye soup served with traditional Polish sausage and a hard-boiled egg. [[File:Chlodnik (Cold Borscht).jpg|thumb|Chlodnik (cold borsht), as served in [[Poznań]]]] '''Pierogi''' are, of course, an immediately recognizable Polish dish. They are often served alongside another dish (for example, with barszcz), rather than as the main course. There are several types of them, stuffed with a mix of cottage cheese and onion, or with meat or even wild forest fruits. '''Gołąbki''' are also widely known: they are large cabbage rolls stuffed with a mix of grains and meats, steamed or boiled and served hot with a white sauce or tomato sauce. '''Kotlet schabowy''', or breaded pork chop, is another immediately recognizable dish, similar to German and Austrian schnitzels. '''Bigos''' is another unique, if less well-known, Polish dish: a "hunter's stew" that includes various meats and vegetables, on a base of pickled cabbage. Bigos tends to be very thick and hearty. Similar ingredients can also be thinned out and served in the form of a cabbage soup, called '''kapuśniak'''. Some Austro-Hungarian imports have also become popular over the years, and adopted by the Polish cuisine. These include '''gulasz''', a local version of goulash that's less spicy than the original, and '''sznycel po wiedeńsku''', which is a traditional schnitzel, often served with potatoes and a selection of vegetables. When it comes to food-on-the-go, foreign imports tend to dominate (such as kebab or pizza stands, and fast-food franchises). An interesting Polish twist is a '''zapiekanka''', which is an open-faced baguette, covered with mushrooms and cheese (or other toppings of choice), and toasted until the cheese melts. '''Zapiekanki''' can be found at numerous roadside stands and bars. In some bars ''placki ziemniaczane'' (Polish potato pancakes) are also available. ''Knysza'' is a Polish version of hamburger, but it's much (much) bigger and it contains beef, variety of vegetables and sauces. ''Drożdżówka'' is a popular sweet version of food-on-the-go, which is a sweet yeast bread (sometimes in a form of kolach) or a pie filled with stuffing made of: poppy seed mass; vanilla, chocolate, coconut or advocaat pudding; baked apples; cocoa mass; sweet curd cheese or fruits. Poland is also known for two unique cheeses, both made by hand in the [Podhale] mountain region in the south. '''Oscypek''' is the more famous: a hard, salty cheese, made of unpasteurized sheep milk, and smoked (or not). It goes very well with alcoholic beverages such as beer. The less common is '''bryndza''', a soft cheese, also made with sheep milk (and therefore salty), with a consistency similar to spreadable cheeses. It's usually served on bread, or baked potatoes. Both cheeses are covered by the EU Protected Designation of Origin (like the French Roquefort, or the Italian Parmegiano-Reggiano). Polish bread is sold in bakeries (''piekarnia'' in Polish) and shops and it's a good idea to ask on what times it can be bought hot (in a bakery). Poles are often very attached to their favourite bread suppliers and don't mind getting up very early in the morning to obtain a fresh loaf. The most common bread ('''zwykły''') is made of rye or rye and wheat flour with sourdough and is best enjoyed very fresh with butter alone or topped with a slice of ham. Many other varieties of breads and bread rolls can be bought and their names and recipes vary depending on a region. Sweet Challah bread ('''chałka''' in Polish) is sold in many bakeries. [[File:Smażenie pączków (Aw58MW).jpg|thumb|Pączki]] Polish cake shops (''cukiernia'') are also worth mentioning, as there's a big tradition of eating cakes in Poland. They can be found in every city and quite often sell local specialties. The standard cakes and desserts which can be found in every region of Poland are: cheesecake ('''sernik'''), applecake ('''jabłecznik'''), yeast fruit cakes ('''drożdżówka''') - especially with plums or strawberries, a variety of cream cakes ('''kremówki'''), '''babka''' which is a plain sweet cake, sometimes with an addition of cocoa, '''mazurek''', '''fale dunaju''', '''metrowiec''', '''ciasto jogurtowe''' which is a sponge filled with yoghurt mousse, doughnuts ('''pączki''', singular: pączek) which are traditionally filled with wild rose petals marmalade and eaten on Fat Tuesday, '''pszczółka''' - a yeast cake with coconut pudding and many others. Polish sausages ('''kiełbasy''') are sold in grocery shops or in butcher's shops (''rzeźnik''). There are tens of different types of sausages; most of them can be enjoyed without any further preparation. Therefore, there are sausages like '''biała kiełbasa''' (traditionally enjoyed in '''żurek''' or '''barszcz biały''' soup) which are raw and need to be boiled, fried or baked before eating. Some sausages are recommended to be fried or roasted over a bonfire (which is probably as popular as barbecuing). Different local sausages can be found in different regions of Poland (like '''Lisiecka''' in Kraków area). Polish fish & chips ('''smażalnia ryb''') can be found in most cities on the Baltic Sea coast. On the coast and in the Masuria you can also find extremely valued in Poland fish smokehouses ('''wędzarnia ryb''') which sell many types of smoked local fish (mostly marine fish on the coast, freshwater fish in Masuria). Smokehouses might turn out very difficult to find, as they don't usually display advertisements and are sometimes in some remote areas. It is a good idea to do some investigation and to ask local people for directions and help with searching. Among smoked fish offered for sale you can find: salmon (''łosoś''), cod (''dorsz''), flounder (''flądra''), rose fish (''karmazyn''), herring (''śledź''), halibut (''halibut''), pollock (''mintaj''), hake (''morszczuk''), mackerel (''makrela''), skipper (''szprotki, szprot''), trout (''pstrąg''), brown trout (''troć''), eel (''węgorz''), zander (''sandacz''), carp (''karp''), vendace (''sielawa''), tencz (''lin''), bream (''leszcz''), sturgeon (''jesiotr''), asp (''boleń'') and others. You should be careful with smoked butterfish (''maślana'') as despite being very delicious it can cause diarrhea in some people and shouldn't be eaten by children and elderly people. In the whole Poland territory you can buy some smoked fish, among which the most popular is mackerel (it is advised to buy it in a busy shop for full, fresh flavour as it deteriorates quickly; for example in a local market). Also anywhere in Poland you can buy herrings in vinegar or oil marinade. One of the Polish favourites is battered herring or other fish in a vinegar marinade. ===Milk bars=== Critically endangered kind of restaurant where you can eat cheaply, these days only few remain in large cities, though if you are on shoestring budget it can be well worth finding one close to you. A milk bar is a very basic sort of fast food restaurant that serves cheap Polish fare, usually dairy-based, rarely vegetarian which is how the name originated. Though first milk bar opened as early as 1896 it is mostly associated with communist Poland where it served as a means to offer cheap meals to people working in companies that had no official canteen. The milk bars are subsidized by the state, except for meat dishes, which means that you can eat here really, really cheap (below 25 zł), at least if you stick to non-meat options. Food served tends to be bland in taste but will fill you up. Eating there will allow you to experience a 1970s Poland environment, complete from meals served to (generally poor) customer service and dull interiors. These days mostly attended by pensioners and homeless. ==Drink== [[File:06592 Holiday Folk in Niebieszczany.jpg|thumbnail|right|Polish people drink more beer than any other alcoholic beverage]] Poland is on the border of European "vodka" and "beer culture". Poles enjoy alcoholic drinks but they drink less than the European average. You can buy beer, vodka and wine. Although Poland is known as the birthplace of vodka, local beer seems to have much more appeal to many Poles. Another traditional alcoholic beverage is mead. Polish liqueurs and ''nalewka'' (alcoholic tincture) are a must. You must be over 18 years old and be able to prove it with a valid ID to buy alcohol, and this is strictly enforced. ===Beer=== Poland's brewery tradition began in the Middle Ages. Today Poland is one of the top beer producing countries in Europe. Although not well known internationally, Poland traditionally sports some of the best pilsner-type lagers worldwide. The most common big brands include: * Żywiec (pronounced ''ZHIV-y-ets'') * Tyskie (pronounced ''TIS-kyeh'') * Okocim (pronounced ''oh-KO-cheem'') * Lech (pronounced ''LEH'') * Warka (pronounced ''VAR-kah'') * Łomża (pronounced ''Uom-zha'') Micro-breweries and gastro-pubs are on the rise, in particular in the larger cities, and many delicatessen or supermarkets carry smaller brands, including hand-crafted beers of many types. Pubs usually offer one or two varieties of draught beer (draft beer), usually only pilsner-type lagers. When ordering a beer, you can choose between "big one" (''duże''; 0.5 liter) or "small one" (''małe''; 0.3 liter). You can also ask for "beer with juice" (''piwo z sokiem''), then a barman will add a bit of sweet syrup (raspberry or ginger). The most popular snack ordered with beer is potato chips. ===Vodka=== Common brands are: * '''Żubrówka''' (Zhoo-BROOF-ka) - vodka with flavors derived from Bison Grass, from eastern Poland. * '''Żołądkowa Gorzka''' (Zho-wont-KO-va GOSH-ka) - vodka with "bitter" (''gorzka'') in the name, but sweet in taste. Just like Żubrówka, it's a unique Polish product and definitely a must-try. * '''Wiśniówka''' (Vish-NIOOF-ka) - Cherry vodka (very sweet). * '''Krupnik''' (KROOP-nik) - Honey and spices vodka, a traditional Polish-Lithuanian recipe (very sweet). During winter, many bars sell ''Grzany Krupnik'' (warm Krupnik), where hot water, cinnamon, cloves, and citrus zest or slices are added. * '''Żytnia''' (ZHIT-nea) - rye vodka * '''Wyborowa''' (Vi-bo-RO-va) - One of Poland's most popular rye vodkas. This is also one of the most common exported brands. Strong and pleasant. * '''Luksusowa''' (Look-sus-OH-vah) "Luxurious" - Another popular brand, and a common export along with Wyborowa. * '''Starka''' "Old" - A vodka traditionally aged for years in oak casks. Of Lithuanian origin * '''Biała Dama''' (Be-AH-wa DAH-ma) is not a vodka but a name given by winos to cheap rectified spirits of dubious origin, best avoided if you like your eyesight the way it is. *'''Sobieski''' - rye vodka, one of the most commonly chosen by Polish people. Deluxe (more expensive) brands include '''Chopin''' and '''Belvedere'''. Most Poles consider these brands to be "export brands", and usually don't drink them. There are also dozens of flavoured vodkas. Apart from Polish traditional flavours like: Żubrówka, Żołądkowa, Wiśniówka and Krupnik, you can easily buy some less obvious flavours like: pineapple, pear, blackcurrant, cranberry, grapefruit, apple, mint, lemon, herbs and others. The availability of different brands can vary in different regions of the country. ===Wine=== Poland makes wines around [[Zielona Góra]] in [[Lubuskie]], in [[Małopolskie]], in the [[Beskids]] and in [[Świętokrzyskie]] in central Poland. Polish wines are available in retail stores. As for imported wine, apart from the usual old and new world standards, there is usually a choice of decent table wines from central and eastern Europe, such as Austria, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Moldova, the Balkans, and Georgia. It winter, many Poles drink ''grzaniec'' (mulled wine), made of red wine heated with spices such as cloves, nutmeg, and ginger. A similar drink can be made with beer, although wine is the more popular method. === Mead === Mead - ''miód pitny'' (literally 'drinkable honey') is a traditional and historical alcohol drink in Poland. Mead is brewed from honey and has excellent unusual taste similar to wine. Original Polish mead contains 13-20% alcohol. Sometimes it can be very sweet. Today Poles have a strange relationship with mead. All of them have heard of it, almost none have ever tried it. A fitting place to buy and try Polish mead is the mediaeval re-enactment village at [[Wolin]]. ===Cocktails=== Poles are very keen on beer and vodka, and you'll find that cocktails are often expensive but can be found in most bars in most major cities. One of the best known native to Poland drinks is ''Szarlotka'' made of ''Żubrówka'' vodka and apple juice. [[File:A glass of tea in Poland 845.JPG|thumbnail|right|Polish people traditionally drink tea from glasses, not cups]] ===Tea and coffee=== [[File:01141 Pischinger (chocolate oblaten cake), Sanok 2011.jpg|thumbnail|right|Due to the proximity of the [[Turkey|Ottoman Empire]], with whom Poland used to share a border and fought many wars, the country was one of the first in Europe to take to drinking coffee]] Throw stereotypes out the door. For Poles, one of the most important staples to quench their thirst is not ''wódka'' or beer, but rather tea and coffee. The traditional hot drink is tea (''herbata'') while coffee (''kawa'') although known in Poland since close contacts with Turkey in 17th century, became more popular in last twenty five years. It is very common behaviour that if you visit friends at home or start a formal meeting you will be firstly asked: "coffee or tea?". Refusing a hot drink in this situation may be seen as impolite. It is rather unusual to talk or to meet with somebody without drinking one of those hot drinks. When ordering a coffee, you'll find that it is treated with respect reminiscent of Vienna, rather than, say, New York. Which is to say: you'll get a fresh cup prepared one serving at a time, with table service that assumes you'll sit down for a while to enjoy it. Mass-produced to-go coffee remains highly unpopular, although chains such as ''Coffee Heaven'' have been making inroads. Curiously, there are still only a few Starbucks shops in the whole country, which are occupied mostly by teenagers. There are four basic types of coffee which you will be offered in Poland. In small bars, fast food or at friends home (where usually they haven't coffee makers) you can choose between instant coffee (''rozpuszczalna'') or Turkish coffee (''kawa po turecku'' or ''kawa sypana''). The second one is a very specific Polish style, not known abroad. It is simply two teaspoons of ground coffee poured with boiling water. A traditional way is to serve it in glasses. In restaurants you can additionally order "a coffee from a coffee maker" (''kawa z ekspresu''). It may be a very small and strong, Italian-style ''espresso'' or bigger one (200 ml) ''americano''. During order a waiter or a barman always will ask you whether you want "black one?" (''czarna?''; without milk) or "with milk?" (''z mlekiem?''). Ordering a tea, on the other hand, will usually get you a cup or kettle of hot water, and a tea bag on the side, so that the customer can put together a tea that's as strong or as weak as they like. This is not uncommon in continental Europe, but may require some adjustment for visitors. Drinking tea with milk is not popular, traditionally Poles add a slice of lemon and sugar (''herbata z cytryną''), unless they drink flavored tea. Tea houses with large selection of good quality teas and a relaxing atmosphere are gaining popularity. In such places you will get rather a kettle with brewed leaf tea. Funnily, drinking tea with milk is commonly believed in Poland to enhance women's lactation. For the most part, a good coffee can be had for 5 - 10 zł a cup, while a cup of tea can be purchased for the same, unless you happen to order a small kettle, in which case you'll probably pay something between 15 - 30 zł. ===Water=== Drinking water with a meal is not a Polish tradition; having a tea or coffee afterwards is much more common. If you want water with a meal, you might need to ask for it - and you will usually get a choice of carbonated (''gazowana'') or still (''niegazowana'') bottled water, rather than a glass of tap water. As a result, water isn't free, and is pretty expensive too compared to the average price of a meal (up to 4zł for one glass). Beware that sometimes even "still" bottled water, while not visibly bubbly, might still contain some carbon dioxide. You can ask for a glass of tap water or a glass of hot water and receive it for free in most places. Therefore, drinking tap water is considered to be rather weird in Poland. On the bright side, it is safe, due to the water safety standards being at EU level. Carbonated mineral waters are popular, and several kinds are available. Poland was known for its mineral water health spas (''pijalnia wód'') in the 19th century, and the tradition remains strong - you can find many carbonated waters that are naturally rich in minerals and salts. You can also travel to the spas such as [[Szczawnica]] or [[Krynica]], which are still operational. Many varieties of bottled mineral water that can be purchased originate from underground sources (since domestic spring waters are almost unavailable). Bottled mineral water usually has a neutral taste, unlike mineral water bought in water health spas which can have a very distinctive flavour. Some bottled mineral waters are regarded as very healthy due to their high content of minerals, like for example ''Muszynianka'', ''Kryniczanka'' or all mineral waters sold in brown bottles. [[File:Samotnia noca 01.jpg|thumbnail|right|You can find accommodation even in the most remote parts of Poland]] ===Prices=== Poland is still one of the cheapest countries in the European Union and its prices for food, beverages and tobacco are among the lowest. ==Sleep== Poland is catching up with Western Europe when it comes to availability and standards of lodging. Many smaller towns and locations less frequented by tourists still offer very little choice of accommodation and the existing providers make use of it rather by offering low standards than charging extortionate prices. In large cities, both in hotels and hostels, you can expect staff to have reasonable command of English, and often other foreign languages. In less frequented locations, the language barrier may be a problem. ===Prices=== Lodging prices are no longer the bargain they used to be several years ago; now they're comparable to standard European prices. For the bargain hunter, standard tactics apply: if hotel prices are too much, look on the Internet for private rooms, pensions, or apartments for rent, which can sometimes be found for a very reasonable price. Best deals are usually offered off-season. [[File:Sopot-grandhotel.jpg|thumbnail|right|Sofitel Grand in [[Sopot]]]] ===Hotels=== [[File:Intercontinental Warszawa.JPG|thumbnail|right|Intercontinental in [[Warsaw]], the tallest hotel in Poland]] The only major hotel chain with decent coverage of the entirety of the country is [http://www.accorhotels.com/ Accor], who have taken over the former state-owned provider Orbis. A selection of hotels ranging from the affordable ''ibis'' through business-oriented ''Novotel'' and ''Mercure'' and prestigious ''Sofitels'' can be found throughout the country. Do note that while almost all ibis-hotels have been purpose-built in the 2000s, Novotels and Mercures are often converted old Orbis hotels and may not be the best hotels those brands have to offer in Europe. Even Accor has gaps in coverage in less tourist-frequented areas. The most popular global hotel chains (Intercontinental, Marriott, Hilton, Carlson) have some presence in Poland, but none can really boast full coverage of even the most important cities. There is a number of Best Western-affiliated hotels, but they do not cover the entire country as well. Of particular note of the motorized travellers on a budget is the presence of another French chain, Campanile. ===Hostels=== [[Hostels]] affiliated with the national hosteling association are often horrid options for backpackers because of imposed curfews. Additionally, Hosteling International (HI) affiliated hostels are frequently used by large school groups, which means young children may very well be screaming their heads off and running around the halls. Some private hostels are clean and welcoming, but others can be worse than HI hostels. ===Agritourism farms=== Rural tourism has become extremely popular in Poland in the last few decades. Due to social and economic changes in the Polish countryside, many farms have changed their focus from intensive food production to tourism. Under the notion of "agritourism farm" (''gospodarstwo agroturystyczne'' or simply ''agroturystyka'') you may find a real farm in which hosts are real farmers working on their fields and additionally hosting tourists, letting them peek into their everyday country life. Usually, however, you will encounter countryside pensions for whom tourism is the basic source of income. ==Stay safe== The European '''unified emergency number 112''' is being deployed in Poland. By now, it certainly works for all mobile-phone calls and most land-line calls. There are also three "old" emergency numbers that are still in use for land-lines. These are: Ambulance (Pogotowie): 999, Firefighters (Straż Pożarna): 998, and Police (Policja): 997. Municipal Guards (Straż Miejska), dial 986, is a kind of auxiliary Police force found only in large cities. They are not armed and their role is primarily to cope with parking offences and minor cases of antisocial behaviour. [[File:2014 Logo Policji Mońki.jpg|thumbnail|right|When in trouble, report immediately to the police (''Policja'')]] ===Theft=== Poland is generally a safe country. In fact, you are much less likely to experience crime in places like Warsaw or Kraków than in Paris or Rome. Overall, just use common sense and be aware of what you're doing. In cities, follow standard city travel rules: don't leave valuables in the car in plain sight; don't display money or expensive things needlessly; know where you're going; be suspicious of strangers asking for money or trying to sell you something. Pickpockets operate, pay attention to your belongings in crowds, at stations, in crowded trains and buses, and clubs. In any case, do not be afraid to seek help or advice from the Police (''Policja'') or the Municipal Guards (''Straż Miejska''). One worrying trend is theft at airports. Tourists have reported pick-pocketing attempts at Polish airports. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially at security checks. ===Security on trains === On sleeper trains, bag robberies happen between major stations. Ask for ID from anyone who asks to take your ticket or passport and lock backpacks to the luggage racks. Keep valuables on you. ===Violence=== Violent behaviour is relatively rare and if it occurs it is most likely alcohol-related. While pubs and clubs are generally very safe, the nearby streets may be scenes of brawls, especially late at night. Try to avoid confrontations. [[File:John Godson (10073201384).jpg|thumbnail|Polish people tend to approach foreigners from far corners of the globe with friendly curiosity. One sign of openness to ethnic diversity is the election of John Godson, born in Nigeria, as a member of the Polish parliament]] ===Racism=== Poland was a homogeneous society in the second half of the 20th century, but the situation has changed. There are some national minorities like Ukrainians, Belarusians, Germans, and ethnic minorities like Silesians, Cashubians, Lemkos, Jews, and Lipka Tatars who have been a part of Poland for years. Since 1990s, there have been small waves of migration from Africa and East Asia, including Vietnam, who have settled in the larger cities. Between 2014 and 2022, there was a mainly economic migration from Ukraine. Since the outburst of the Russian aggression on Ukraine, Ukrainian refugees may be spotted in all major cities. A lot of villages in Poland rarely have any foreign visitors, so most African or Asian people would get curious looks there - generally not because of racism, but only from pure curiosity. There are some people who don't accept foreigners, like the relatively small numbers of neo-Nazis or football hooligans, nationalists or chauvinists. Except for the radical views of those kinds of people who you can meet almost anywhere, Poles are generally a polite and tolerant nation. As a traveller you will likely be treated in a friendly way here (see "polska gościnność" - Polish hospitality). A common Polish adage says: "gość w dom, Bóg w dom" - guest at home: God at home. [[File:EuroPride 2010 Warsaw Poland 23.jpg|thumbnail|right|EuroPride in Warsaw]] ===LGBT=== LGBT issues remain very controversial, still very much taboo, and routinely exploited by conservative politicians (including the governing party until 2023) and media. Polish culture also has a long tradition of chivalry and strong, traditional gender roles. Poland is often considered the most conservative country in the European Union. In larger cosmopolitan areas, however, gays and lesbians shouldn't have a hard time fitting in, although visibly trans visitors may attract attention. By June 2020, around 100 different so-called "LGBT ideology-free zone declarations" had been made primarily in the southeast of Poland, including by five voivodeships: Małopolskie, Podkarpackie, Świętokrzyskie, Lubelskie, and Łódźkie. However, these declarations were generally considered ceremonial and the last remaining such declaration was formally abolished in April 2025. === Driving conditions === {{see also|Driving in Poland}} Poles drive reasonably predictable and generally stick to the traffic rules. However they tend to be in a state of constant hurry, nearly always driving about 10 km/h above speed limit and often keeping close to the next car, especially if one is driving slower. Ironically, the most dangerous behaviors usually happen during good weather, on long straight stretches of road, when impatient drivers want to overtake multiple cars. Congestion may be an issue, especially during holiday season in seaside and mountain resorts. Zakopane, Świnoujście and destinations north of Gdańsk tend to be affected the worst. Always allow some extra time for possibly unfavourable driving conditions. ===Strip clubs=== If you are approached by a stranger trying to get you to enter a strip club (sometimes presenting it as a cabaret or whiskey bar), refuse. It is not uncommon for strip clubs to fleece customers, especially foreigners. Some have taken to using spiked drinks to do so. Authorities have taken steps to shut down establishments engaging in such practices, but have not succeeded in eliminating it fully. ==Stay healthy== [[Tap water]] is safe to drink in entire Poland. If you stay in any larger settlement there is no reason to worry about water quality. Only complaint may be excessive chlorine treatment and resulting unpleasant smell. However in some rural locations residents may prefer to source water from well which usually will be contaminated with iron and unsafe to drink. Poland relies heavily on coal and wood for home heating and thus has a serious [[air pollution|smog]] problem, which is particularly pronounced in winter and in the southern regions, especially in mountain valleys. ==Respect== ===Etiquette=== Poles are generally old-fashioned about gender etiquette. It is customary to hold doors and chairs for women. Some men, particularly older men, may kiss a woman's hand when greeting or saying goodbye. Kissing a woman's hand is considered to be chivalrous by some, but is more and more often seen as outdated. Handshakes are acceptable; although some believe that men should not offer their hand to a woman - a handshake is only considered polite if the woman offers her hand to the man first. Do not ever handshake in gloves, it is considered insincere and rude. For a more heartfelt greeting or goodbye, some will hug and kiss three times, alternating cheeks, although this custom is pretty rare these days, particularly among the younger people. An occasional practice is for people to greet each other with a ''dzień dobry'' (good day) when entering elevators. You can also encounter people saying the same to tourists on mountain trails. Men should not wear hats indoors, in particular when entering a church (quite the opposite in case of synagogues, where men are required to wear headgear). Most restaurants, museums, and other public buildings have a cloakroom, and people are expected to leave bags and outerwear there. It is usual to bring a gift when invited to someone's home. Flowers are always a good choice and florists' kiosks are ubiquitous, just remember to buy odd number, even-numbered flower bouquets are reserved for funerals and anniversaries. Poles will often bring vodka or whisky, but this depends on the level of familiarity and the hosts' preference towards alcohol, so tread carefully. People's attitudes towards alcohol range from jolly and enthusiastic enjoyment in both practice and word to taking offence at the notion that Polish people would somehow be more prone to alcohol consumption. When visiting someone's home, it's polite to ask if you should take off your shoes. Many hosts won't care, but will appreciate you asking. It is advisable to refer to Poland (as well as to some other countries like the Czech Republic, Slovakia, or Hungary) as Central (+"and Eastern", if needed) Europe, and not only "Eastern Europe". Although not very offensive, "Eastern Europe" is old fashioned, harking back to the Iron Curtain times, thus some folks will be extra happy if you stick to "Central Europe", which is also used in scientific literature. As for the language matters: Poles cherish their language as they had to struggle hard to protect it during the long spells when under the foreign yoke: the Partitions of Poland and WWII. For example, do not use the Russian 'spasibo' or German 'danke' for 'thank you' just because you thought it was Polish or you didn't care. If you're not sure if your terms are actually Polish, ask about these first. Calling Polish towns and places by their (former) German names, when asking for directions (e.g. referring to Breslau instead of Wrocław) may cause confusion and may be regarded as intentionally offensive and disrespectful by the Polish people. ===Sensitive issues === ====Politics==== Domestic politics are both highly sensitive and polarised. Many Polish people have very strong feelings about the conservative, Christian party (the Law and Justice party, or PiS) and the more liberal, but divided, left. Tread carefully when expressing support or criticism of the government, as debates can become quite heated. The display of Soviet or '''communist symbols''' is illegal in Poland, with the exception of those located in the grounds of World War II cemeteries. Promotion of Communist, Nazi, Fascist or "other totalitarian" governments and their symbols is illegal under article 256 of the Polish penal code (Kodeks Karny), although there is a narrow range of possible exemptions. The majority of Poles are quite supportive of the EU, although exceptions can be found, particularly among supporters of the conservative party. ==== National issues ==== {{see also|Holocaust remembrance}} Given Poland's history of enduring turbulent events, the Poles understandably exhibit sensitivity towards various historical occurrences. You should avoid discussing the following topics as they can quickly unsettle people: * '''World War II''' — every Polish family had some member among the 5–6 million people who perished in the conflict, and the conflict resulted in Poland losing nearly 30% of its population. Polish society has not forgotten and forgiven the atrocities and horrors of the war. Remember that the display of Nazi symbols or denial of the Holocaust is '''illegal''' in Poland. * '''Nazi collaboration in Poland''', where there are debates about how many Poles could be described as “collaborators” and to what degree they collaborated. Generally though, implying that Polish people were instrumental in carrying out Nazi rule and the Holocaust can cause offense. * The Soviet Union's role in the '''Katyn Massacre''', during which approximately 22,000 Poles were massacred by the Soviets during World War II. * Anything regarding the '''Polish People's Republic''' — thousands of Poles were arrested, imprisoned, tortured, exiled, and mistreated by the pro-Soviet communist government. * '''The Smolensk air disaster''' that resulted in the death of Lech Kaczyński, the former president; his wife; and several other high-profile Polish government officials — in some circles, people believe it was orchestrated by Russia. * '''The Volhynia Massacre''', during which approximately 100,000 Poles were massacred by Ukrainian nationalists during World War II. * '''The Russia–Ukraine war''' — most Poles are supportive of Ukraine in the conflict. * '''Poland's relationship with [[Russia]]''' — due to a history of domination by the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union, many Poles express feelings of antipathy and distrust towards Russia; therefore, it's wise to avoid being overly enthusiastic about Russia. * '''Poland's relationship with [[Ukraine]]''' — although relations have improved in the past few years, especially in light of the Russia-Ukraine war, many Poles express feelings of antipathy towards Ukraine. In particular, Ukraine's veneration of Stepan Bandera as a national hero deeply angers many Poles. * '''Poland's relationship with [[Belarus]]''' — the relationship between the two countries is profoundly tense. * '''Poland's relationship with [[Germany]]''' — although both countries are members of the [[European Union]] and NATO, many Poles feel that Germany has not done enough to acknowledge the harm it caused to Poland during World War II. In particular, Germany's refusal to compensate Poland for the damages and atrocities inflicted by the Nazis during World War II upsets many people. ====Religion==== Poland is one of the most religious countries in Europe and has often been referred to as "Rome's most faithful daughter". Most Poles are adherents of Roman Catholicism, and the Catholic Church enjoys a high level of social prestige and political influence in the country. Poles regard Roman Catholicism as a repository of Polish heritage and culture — during the Communist years, the Catholic Church played a big role in challenging the repressive nature of the Communist government. Certain topics such as abortion, sexuality, LGBT rights, or the use of soft drugs can evoke strong emotions and debates in Poland. Poland, by law, is a secular country. Younger Poles are more likely to be irreligious than their seniors. As ever, dress conservatively and behave appropriately when visiting a place of worship. ====LGBT travellers==== [[File:LGBT Free Zones Poland 2020 - Counties.png|thumb|LGBT ideology-free zones declared (as of January 2020) marked in red]] LGBT issues are controversial in Poland, and Poland is often ranked as one of the most homophobic countries in the [[European Union]]. About a 100 municipalities (encompassing a third of the country) have declared themselves as "LGBT-free zones", drawing strong condemnation from the European Union and other third-party governments. Such measures have been promoted and encouraged by the ruling party and the government, as they believe it is necessary to defend and protect traditional values. Although attitudes have been changing since the 2000s, public displays of same-sex affection, cross dressing, or openly discussing LGBT topics are likely to be met with disapproval or hostility in certain circles. Younger Poles are less likely to show hostility. Likewise, people in the west and in the cities tend to be more accepting than people in the east and in rural areas. === Miscellaneous === Under Polish law, people promoting Nazi-era slogans, symbols or gestures are liable up to 3 years in prison, a fine or both. The same penalty applies for Holocaust denial and promotion of similar totalitarian systems. It is illegal to drink alcohol in public outside of venues serving alcohol. Although often done by the locals, especially in parks and in some less congested city streets, the local police take a very strict approach to enforcement of this law. Drinking alcohol in any public place puts you at risk of a small fine (from 50 to 100 zł), being scoffed at by the City Guards, detained, and losing your booze. It's worth mentioning that some cities have zones where public drinking is legal e.g. schodki (''stairs'') on the west bank of the Vistula River in Warsaw. It is illegal to be drunk in public. If you are drunk and disorderly, you may be taken to a drunk tank (''izba wytrzeźwień''), where you will be treated as an alcoholic and won't be released until sober. You'll have to pay 250 zł for the experience. Possession of any amount of drugs is illegal and a criminal offence. This also applies to cannabis, with the sole exception being the owners of a medical prescription for it. Prostitution is legal, but any form of profiting from another person's prostitution or acting as an intermediary is illegal. Smoking is forbidden in bars and restaurants and generally in public buildings. It is also forbidden to smoke at or near bus stops. This rule, made to protect non-smokers, doesn't apply to smoking rooms. If you break the rule, you may have to pay 500 zł. ==Connect== ===Mobile phones=== There are numerous mobile phone operators in Poland: [http://plus.pl Plus], [http://www.t-mobile.pl T-Mobile], [http://www.orange.pl Orange] and [https://www.play.pl/ Play] are the most popular ones, with the offer enhanced by many virtual operators, usually cheaper, including free calls in a monthly package. LTE is available in every town and 5G is being implemented as of 2021. Domestic call rates are roughly the same across all services. Prepaid starter kits with SIM card (called ''pakiety startowe'') are widely available for reasonable prices (5–20 zł) in most shops, supermarkets and news agents. Accounts are valid for outgoing calls for few days, so it is good to fill them up for, lets say, 20 zł ("doładowanie" [do-wa-do-vanye] in Polish, be sure to give the value you want). Prepaid SIM cards ''must be registered with an ID card or passport'' to operate. This can be done in the majority of prepaid SIM card retailers, or in gas stations, post offices and cellular stores. Ask a local for help. Just about every shopping centre has at least one independent cellphone shop, the guys who run them are usually knowledgeable and have a range of cheap handsets. {{EU roaming}} ===Polish telephone numbers=== All telephone numbers in Poland are 9 digits long, and never start with '''0''' — although they used to do so. Sometimes numbers are written ''the old way'', that is often only the last 7 digits are listed, in which case you need to prefix the now obligatory area code (e.g. 22 — Warsaw, 61 — Poznań, 12 — Kraków) ''or'' a '''0''' is included in the beginning, in which case it must be skipped. It does not matter whether you call from a land-line or a mobile. There are some special numbers, notably: * ''800 xxxxxx'' — toll–free call from a land-line phone and from a phone booth, but may still cost something from a mobile phone * ''801 xxxxxx'' — reduced fare, costs as much as a local call from a landline phone at most (but will cost more from a mobile phone) * ''70x xxxxxx'' — premium fare, can be very expensive — read the fine print in that advert you've got the number from. On the other hand, cheap international calls can often be made through numbers beginning with 708. Also, texting (sending SMSes) to: * ''7xyy(y)'' and ''9xxyy(y)'' — Premium SMS, x is cost in złoty plus 23% tax, e.g. 72yy costs 2.46 zł, 70yy is 0.50 zł + 23% VAT = 0.62 zł, 910yy = 12.30 zł. * ''8xxx'' — is toll–free When calling abroad, use '''00''', or '''+''', and then country code. ===International calls=== To call abroad from Poland: * From a landline phone: ''00'' ''Country code'' Local number. * From a mobile phone: ''+'' ''Country code'' Local number. To call to Poland from abroad, dial ''48'', then the number ''without'' the leading ''0'', as if calling from a domestic mobile phone. International and roaming calls are expensive. To reduce your bill you can: * buy "phone cards" for international calls. * activate a Polish pre-paid account to make or receive calls (the cost can be as little as 15 zł). * talk over the Internet. WhatsApp and other chat and videocall apps are massively popular in Poland. ===Internet=== If you're bringing a laptop, Wi-Fi Hot-Spots are available in distinct places, sometimes free, otherwise not very cheap. Best chances of finding one are at airports, railway stations, in cafés, shopping malls, libraries, some universities, or central spots e.g. the market places, paid and maintained by the local governments. You can also ask in your hotel, but be prepared to pay. Most coffee shops and restaurants have Wi-Fi available for customers – usually password-protected. Mobile LTE/UMTS/HSPA is available in the cities, see section '''Mobile phones''' above for details or the short list below. * '''T-Mobile''' - Blueconnect Starter - cost: 25 zł [http://www.t-mobile.pl/pl/indywidualni/oferta/nowa_oferta/internet/na_karte/bez_urzadzenia/oferta] *'''[https://www.plus.pl/ Plus]''' - iPlus simdata - cost: 15 zł * '''Orange''' - Orange free na kartę - cost: 20 zł * '''Play''' - Play Online na kartę - cost: 19 zł ==Cope== ===Digits=== * In Poland a comma is used as a decimal point, and the space to group numbers. So, for example, '''''10 500,46 zł''' is ten thousand five hundred złoty and 46 groszy''. That said, the period is increasingly often used as the decimal point, especially on price tags and bills. Occasionally a dot is also used as a grouping character. ===Toilets=== The situation is not much different from most other European Union countries. In large cities, particularly centres, one should have no problem finding accessible public toilets. It can become tougher in smaller towns and away from tourist destinations. While standards may vary in terms of quality and age of fittings and cleanliness, there is always a sit-down flush toilet (squat toilets, prevalent in many post-Soviet countries, are almost unheard of in Poland), a basin with running water, toilet paper, soap/hand detergent and something to dry your hands with (paper towels or electric dryers). In some places with extremely heavy traffic or little maintenance, supplies may run out – it is best to have a pack of tissues handy, as any prudent traveller would. Some public toilets require a small fee, 1 or 2 złoty, but more publicly accessible toilets are free of charge than in some other European countries. Some toilets have an attendant collecting the payment. There are toilets at larger train stations and larger bus terminals, but they are often not very clean, in poor condition and, despite all that, will generally charge fees for use. Toilets at airports are generally free, both air- and landside, and in much better condition than at train or bus stations. Toilets can be found on board all long-distance and some modern local trains, as well as on board of some long-distance buses. In older train cars, toilets have often not been modernized since the cars went into use, but provide an acceptable experience (and toilet paper, soap and paper towels, except for very long routes when the train can run out of them before the staff gets a chance to restock at the end of the line). All sit-down eating places are required to provide a toilet for their patrons, and most do so without any extra charges. While signs usually clearly indicate those are for (paying) customers only, the staff would usually make no problems if you inquired politely if you could use it without ordering anything. In some popular places, like McDonald's, you may need a key or a code to access the toilet. Ask the staff for either (in fast food outlets, the code is often at the bottom of your bill). There are also free public toilets in large shopping centres and hypermarkets, but smaller establishments (supermarkets, street-level shops) do not provide such facilities at all. In case of larger events, organizers provide so called '''Toi-Toi''' portable toilets (from one of companies that service them). They are narrow plastic booths, usually blue, not very comfortable, often not very clean, and hardly ever with water or paper. There are also toilets at all but the smallest gas stations. Whether they are free of charge, as well as their standards, may vary greatly, but on the road those may be your only option. There are relatively few free-standing public toilets in cities. A better bet is to look for any of the above establishments. Usually you can also use a toilet in cafes, pubs, libraries or any other buildings open to the public. You should ask for permission (if there is anybody to ask) and in many cases will be guided to the right door. Toilets for women are marked with a circle on the door, and toilets for men are marked with a triangle. The Polish word for "toilet" is ''toaleta'' (t'o-ah-let-ah), and most people would understand the word "toilet" anyway. Also, the abbreviation ''WC'' is commonly used. ==Go next== The land border can be crossed to [[Germany]], [[Czechia]], [[Slovakia]], [[Ukraine]], and [[Lithuania]]. Traffic to [[Belarus]] and the [[Kaliningrad Oblast]] is severely restricted as of 2025. {{geo|52|19|zoom=7}} {{isPartOf|Central Europe}} {{usablecountry}} qzknpemqybnzafegr1el9xj30pymptg 0 28450 5091096 5075720 2025-07-11T00:35:35Z SHB2000 2248002 /* 2025 */ 5091096 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Off the beaten path''' is a showcase article about a lesser-known or unusual travel destination, selected monthly by Wikivoyage's users. See [[Previous Destinations of the month]] for better-known destinations, [[Previous Featured travel topics]] for phrasebooks, itineraries and travel topics, and [[Project:Destination_of_the_month_candidates#Nominations_for_Off_the_Beaten_Path|Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates]] to nominate and discuss future "Off the beaten path" destinations. Previously featured destinations were: <br clear="all" /> {{mapframe|align=center|width=1000|height=500}} __NOTOC__ ==Previous features== Featured on Wikivoyage. ===2025=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div>[[File:VaalsBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Vaals|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Vaals]]|wikidata=Q9768}}, [[Limburg]], [[Netherlands]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div>[[File:NewEnglandNatPBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=New England National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[New England National Park]]|wikidata=Q1982368}}, [[New South Wales]], [[Australia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div>[[File:KhujandBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Khujand|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Khujand]]|wikidata=Q373808}}, [[Ferghana Valley (Tajikistan)|Ferghana Valley]], [[Tajikistan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div>[[File:BanteayChhmarBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Banteay Chhmar|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Banteay Chhmar]]|wikidata=Q1021162}}, [[Cambodia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div>[[File:TezpurBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Tezpur|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Tezpur]]|wikidata=Q1021162}}, [[Assam]], [[India]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div>[[File:ElHierroBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=El Hierro|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[El Hierro]]|wikidata=Q1036287}}, [[Canary Islands]], [[Spain]]]] |} ===2024=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div>[[File:YarrangobillyCavesBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Yarrangobilly Caves|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Yarrangobilly Caves]]|wikidata=Q8049538}}, [[New South Wales]], [[Australia]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div>[[File:PresidentePrudenteBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Presidente Prudente|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Presidente Prudente]]|wikidata=Q525618}}, Sao Paulo, [[Brazil]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div>[[File:LaTrembladeBanner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=La Tremblade|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[La Tremblade]]|wikidata=Q1106266}}, [[France]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div>[[File:MinotNDBanner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Minot|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Minot]]|wikidata=Q487201}}, [[North Dakota]], [[United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div>[[File:AthBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Ath|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Ath]]|wikidata=Q95096}}, [[Belgium]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div>[[File:MtBullerBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Mount Buller|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Mount Buller]]|wikidata=Q984117}}, [[Victoria (state)|Victoria]], [[Australia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div>[[File:NorthWestRiverBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=North West River|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[North West River]]|wikidata=Q7057307}}, [[Newfoundland and Labrador]], [[Canada]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div>[[File:BethlehemPABanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Bethlehem (Pennsylvania)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Bethlehem (Pennsylvania)|Bethlehem]]|wikidata=Q164380}}, [[Pennsylvania]], [[United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div>[[File:HagiBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Hagi|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Hagi]]|wikidata=Q378225}}, [[Japan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div>[[File:IquitosBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Iquitos|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Iquitos]]|wikidata=Q193289}}, [[Peru]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div>[[File:PuertoMorelosBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Puerto Morelos|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Puerto Morelos]]|wikidata=Q2117481}}, [[Mexico]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div>[[File:AirItamBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Air Itam|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Air Itam]]|wikidata=Q407381}}, [[Malaysia]]]] |} ===2023=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div>[[File:Easter Island dotm banner 5.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Easter Island|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Easter Island]]|wikidata=Q14452}}, [[Chile]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div>[[File:Pai Banner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Pai|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Pai]]|wikidata=Q2892289}}, [[Thailand]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div>[[File:Salem MA Banner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Salem (Massachusetts)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Salem (Massachusetts)|Salem]]|wikidata=Q54140}}, [[Massachusetts]], [[United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div>[[File:Copenhagen Amager banner Dragør Havn lodsmuseum.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Copenhagen/Amager|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Copenhagen/Amager|Amager]]|wikidata=Q210396}}, [[Copenhagen]], [[Denmark]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div>[[File:Longyearbyen banner 2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Longyearbyen|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Longyearbyen]]|wikidata=Q25923}}, [[Svalbard]], [[Norway]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div>[[File:Tombstone TP banner 2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Tombstone Territorial Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Tombstone Territorial Park]]|wikidata=Q844692}}, [[Yukon]], [[Canada]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div>[[File:Tutuala DOTM banner Jaco.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Tutuala|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Tutuala]]|wikidata=Q17505833}}, [[Timor-Leste]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div>[[File:Stamford DOTM banner Town Bridge.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Stamford (England)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Stamford (England)|Stamford]]|wikidata=Q1000662}}, [[England]], [[United Kingdom]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div>[[File:Klaksvík otbp banner 1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Klaksvík|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Klaksvík]]|wikidata=Q189361}}, [[Faroe Islands]], Kingdom of Denmark]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div>[[File:Guanajuato otbp banner La Galereña Tunnel.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Guanajuato|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Guanajuato|Guanajuato City]]|wikidata=Q61306}}, [[Guanajuato (state)|Guanajuato]], [[Mexico]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div>[[File:Jimbaran OtBP banner 1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Jimbaran|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Jimbaran]]|wikidata=Q670243}}, [[Bali]], [[Indonesia]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div>[[File:Navarre Beach Pier Wikivoyage banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Navarre (Florida)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Navarre (Florida)|Navarre]]|wikidata=Q6982123}}, [[Florida]], [[United States]]]] |} ===2022=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div>[[File:Gävle goat 2009 DotM banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=[[Gävle]]|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Gävle]]|wikidata=Q25748}}, [[Gävleborg County]], [[Sweden]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div>[[File:Cooch Behar Palace - Cooch Behar - West Bengal - 005 (cropped2).jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Cooch Behar|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Cooch Behar]]|wikidata=Q313640}}, [[West Bengal]], [[India]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div>[[File:Savai'i, Samoa banner 2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Savaii|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Savaii]]|wikidata=Q337519}}, [[Samoa]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div>[[File:Budderoo otbp banner 4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Budderoo National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Budderoo National Park]]|wikidata=Q956929}}, [[New South Wales]], [[Australia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div>[[File:Deventer MP banner Lebuïnuskerk.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Deventer|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Deventer]]|wikidata=Q10001}}, [[Overijssel]], [[Netherlands]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div>[[File:Farnborough otbp banner Red Arrows and A400M.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Farnborough|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Farnborough]]|wikidata=Q547071}}, [[England]], [[United Kingdom]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div>[[File:Homer otbp banner 1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Homer|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Homer]]|wikidata=Q79441}}, [[Alaska]], [[United States of America]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div>[[File:Percé Wikivoyage feature banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Percé|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Percé]]|wikidata=Q141991}}, [[Quebec]], [[Canada]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div>[[File:Alishan otbp banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Alishan|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Alishan]]|wikidata=Q707585}}, [[Taiwan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div>[[File:Magome otbp banner 1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Magome|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Magome]]|wikidata=Q1433284}}, [[Japan]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div>[[File: San Ignacio (Belize) banner Burns Avenue.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=[[San Ignacio (Belize)]]|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[San Ignacio (Belize)|San Ignacio]]|wikidata=Q724815}}, [[Belize]] ]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div>[[File:Koror otbp banner 1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Koror|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Koror]] |wikidata=Q527748}}, [[Palau]]]] |} ===2021=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div>[[File:Montserrat otbp banner 2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=[[Montserrat]]|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Montserrat]]|wikidata=Q13353}} ]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div>[[File:Twilight Plymouth MA Wikivoyage DOTM banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Plymouth (Massachusetts)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Plymouth (Massachusetts)|Plymouth]]|wikidata=Q326295}}, [[Massachusetts]], [[United States]] ]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div>[[File:Chavín de Huántar main page banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Chavín de Huántar|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Chavín de Huántar]]|wikidata=Q732554}}, [[Peru]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div>[[File:Diablo Range DOTM Banner 3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Diablo Range|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Diablo Range]]|wikidata=Q2241223}}, [[California]], [[United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:BergenGermanyBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Bergen (Germany)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Bergen (Germany)|Bergen]]|wikidata=Q505665}}, [[Lower Saxony]], [[Germany]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:Neuland banner Iglesia Mennonita.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Neuland|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Neuland]]|wikidata=Q1709409}}, [[Paraguay]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:Visp banner Panorama.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Visp|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Visp]]|wikidata=Q64147}}, [[Switzerland]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:CrawfordBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Crawford (Nebraska)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Crawford (Nebraska)|Crawford]]|wikidata=Q963768}}, [[Nebraska]], [[United States of America]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:SimpelveldBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Simpelveld|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Simpelveld]]|wikidata=Q9769}}, [[Netherlands]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:PdCBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Porto da Cruz|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Porto da Cruz]]|wikidata=Q932115}}, [[Madeira]], [[Portugal]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:BelgraveBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Belgrave|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Belgrave]]|wikidata=Q815564}}, [[Victoria (state)|Victoria]], [[Australia]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:TorresBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Torres del Paine National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Torres del Paine National Park]]|wikidata=Q901646}}, [[Chile]]]] |} ===2020=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:NSBBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=New Smyrna Beach|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[New Smyrna Beach]]|wikidata=Q375375}}, [[Florida]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:IriomoteBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Iriomote|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Iriomote]]|wikidata=Q432124}}, [[Japan]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:NkhataBayBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Nkhata Bay|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Nkhata Bay]]|wikidata=Q1370650}}, [[Malawi]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:AlcamoBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Alcamo|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Alcamo]]|wikidata=Q481544}}, [[Italy]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:ApiaBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Apia|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Apia]]|wikidata=Q36260}}, [[Samoa]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:FaaborgBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Faaborg|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Faaborg]]|wikidata=Q3547421}}, [[Denmark]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:KarakolBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Karakol|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Karakol]]|wikidata=Q194452}}, [[Kyrgyzstan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:NagyBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Nagykanizsa|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Nagykanizsa]]|wikidata=Q14424}}, [[Hungary]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:ThimphuBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Thimphu|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Thimphu]]|wikidata=Q9270}}, [[Bhutan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:GBNPBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Great Basin National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Great Basin National Park]]|wikidata=Q1137657}}, [[Nevada]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:JBayBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Jeffreys Bay|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Jeffreys Bay]]|wikidata=Q585092}}, [[South Africa]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:NorfolkIslandBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Norfolk Island|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Norfolk Island]]|wikidata=Q31057}}]] |} ===2019=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:PakseBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Pakse|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Pakse]]|wikidata=Q383622}}, [[Laos]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:JVDBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Jost Van Dyke|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Jost Van Dyke]]|wikidata=Q1330151}}, [[British Virgin Islands]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:LetchworthBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Letchworth State Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Letchworth State Park]]|wikidata=Q1303662}}, [[New York (state)|New York]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:KPPBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Kamphaeng Phet|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Kamphaeng Phet]]|wikidata=Q2960445}}, [[Thailand]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:OlomoucBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Olomouc|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Olomouc]]|wikidata=Q81137}}, [[Czech Republic]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:YYPBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Yuryev-Polsky|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Yuryev-Polsky]]|wikidata=Q198826}}, [[Russia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:IlulissatBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Ilulissat|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Ilulissat]]|wikidata=Q191047}}, [[Greenland]], Kingdom of Denmark]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:Pleasanton OTBP Banner 3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Pleasanton|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Pleasanton]]|wikidata=Q747444}}, [[California]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:Bouzigues Banner 2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Bouzigues|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Bouzigues]]|wikidata=Q769568}}, [[France]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:ChapelHillBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Chapel Hill|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Chapel Hill]]|wikidata=Q671812}}, [[North Carolina]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:KhasabBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Khasab|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Khasab]]|wikidata=Q426646}}, [[Oman]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:ChathamIslandsBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Chatham Islands|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Chatham Islands]]|wikidata=Q115459}}, [[New Zealand]]]] |} ===2018=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:BanosBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Baños|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Baños]]|wikidata=Q812717}}, [[Ecuador]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:KeenjharLakeBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Keenjhar Lake|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Keenjhar Lake]]|wikidata=Q3246838}}, [[Pakistan]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:VallettaBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Valletta|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Valletta]]|wikidata=Q23800}}, [[Malta]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:BronzevilleBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Chicago/Bronzeville|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Chicago/Bronzeville|Bronzeville]]|wikidata=Q4823292}}, [[Chicago]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:GorokaBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Goroka|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Goroka]]|wikidata=Q498192}}, [[Papua New Guinea]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:HofnBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Höfn|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Höfn]]|wikidata=Q817118}}, [[Iceland]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:PitonBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Piton de la Fournaise|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Piton de la Fournaise]]|wikidata=Q1049644}}, [[Réunion]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:ErlangenBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Erlangen|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Erlangen]]|wikidata=Q3126}}, [[Germany]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:PorosBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Poros|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Poros]]|wikidata=Q724394}}, [[Greece]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:BrownsvilleBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Brownsville (Texas)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Brownsville (Texas)|Brownsville]]|wikidata=Q51693}}, [[Texas]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:KakamegaBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Kakamega Rainforest|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Kakamega Rainforest]]|wikidata=Q1397614}}, [[Kenya]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:UkulhasBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Ukulhas|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Ukulhas]]|wikidata=Q4177376}}, [[Maldives]]]] |} ===2017=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:BozemanBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Bozeman|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Bozeman]]|wikidata=Q569678}}, [[Montana]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:SdeBokerBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Sde Boker|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Sde Boker]]|wikidata=Q1026531}}, [[Israel]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:FiladelfiaBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Filadelfia|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Filadelfia]]|wikidata=Q733744}}, [[Paraguay]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:KurashikiBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Kurashiki|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Kurashiki]]|wikidata=Q467487}}, [[Japan]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:YuzhnoBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk]]|wikidata=Q7859}}, [[Russia]]]] | valign="top" colspaN="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:GroningenBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Groningen|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Groningen]]|wikidata=Q749}}, [[Netherlands]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:LabradorBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Labrador|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Labrador]]|wikidata=Q380307}}, [[Canada]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:WernigerodeBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Wernigerode|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Wernigerode]]|wikidata=Q15982}}, [[Germany]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:NauruBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Nauru|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Nauru]]|wikidata=Q697}}]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:KabakBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Kabak|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Kabak]]|wikidata=Q14219977}}, [[Turkey]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:EntebbeBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Entebbe]]|wikidata=Q211970}}, [[Uganda]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:StanleyFalklandsBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Stanley (Falkland Islands)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Stanley (Falkland Islands)|Stanley]]|wikidata=Q12245}}, [[Falkland Islands]]]] |} ===2016=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:NCNMBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=North Central New Mexico|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[North Central New Mexico]]|wikidata=Q14227143}}, [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:LEIBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Lady Elliot Island|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Lady Elliot Island]]|wikidata=Q1779299}}, [[Queensland]], [[Australia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:CaldasBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Caldas da Rainha|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Caldas da Rainha]]|wikidata=Q275689}}, [[Portugal]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:AnacostiaBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Washington, D.C./Anacostia|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Washington, D.C./Anacostia|Anacostia]]|wikidata=Q4579829}}, [[Washington, D.C.]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:SalalahBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Salalah|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Salalah]]|wikidata=Q1294439}}, [[Oman]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:PalmyraNYBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Palmyra (New York)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Palmyra (New York)|Palmyra]]|wikidata=Q2270605}}, [[New York (state)|New York]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:HampsteadBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=London/Hampstead|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[London/Hampstead|Hampstead]]|wikidata=Q25610}}, [[London]], [[United Kingdom]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:DilijanBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Dilijan|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Dilijan]]|wikidata=Q39569}}, [[Armenia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:RinjaniBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Mount Rinjani|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Mount Rinjani]]|wikidata=Q847323}}, [[Indonesia]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:SwakopmundBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Swakopmund|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Swakopmund]]|wikidata=Q59698}}, [[Namibia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:HiloBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Hilo|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Hilo]]|wikidata=Q216258}}, [[Hawaii]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:EinGediBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Ein Gedi|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Ein Gedi]]|wikidata=Q1011544}}, [[Israel]]]] |} ===2015=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:TaxilaBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Taxila|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Taxila]]|wikidata=Q156093}}, [[Punjab (Pakistan)|Pubjab]] [[Pakistan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:PraiaBanner6.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Praia|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Praia]]|wikidata=Q3751}}, [[Cape Verde]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:HydenBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Hyden|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Hyden]]|wikidata=Q1377673}}, [[Western Australia]], [[Australia]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:AltaiTavanBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Altai Tavan Bogd National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]|wikidata=Q932232}}, [[Mongolia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:DavenportBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Davenport|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Davenport]]|wikidata=Q26887}}, [[Iowa]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:TrondheimBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Trondheim|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Trondheim]]|wikidata=Q25804}}, [[Norway]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:Turku Wikivoyage banner OtBP 2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Turku|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Turku]]|wikidata=Q38511}}, [[Finland]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:Iseo banner2.jpeg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Iseo|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Iseo]]|wikidata=Q104911}}, [[Italy]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:SierraVistaBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Sierra Vista|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Sierra Vista]]|wikidata=Q79891}}, [[Arizona]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:UshuaiaBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Ushuaia|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Ushuaia]]|wikidata=Q44254}}, [[Argentina]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:KirtharNationalParkBanner5.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Kirthar National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Kirthar National Park]]|wikidata=Q1743664}}, [[Pakistan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:SabaBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Saba|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Saba]]|wikidata=Q25528}}]] |} ===2014=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:FoxGlacierBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Fox Glacier|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Fox Glacier]]|wikidata=Q1147722}}, [[New Zealand]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:TaketomiBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Taketomi|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Taketomi]]|wikidata=Q474560}}, [[Japan]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:MitzpeRamonBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Mitzpe Ramon|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Mitzpe Ramon]]|wikidata=Q741793}}, [[Israel]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:Vava'uBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Vava'u|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Vava'u]]|wikidata=Q859666}}, [[Tonga]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:ChicagoFarNWSideBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Chicago/Far Northwest Side|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Chicago/Far Northwest Side|Far Northwest Side]]|wikidata=Q14211257}}, [[Chicago]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:IqaluitBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Iqaluit |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Iqaluit]]|wikidata=Q2030}}, [[Nunavut]], [[Canada]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:TravemundeBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Travemünde |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Travemünde]]|wikidata=Q321792}}, [[Germany]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:ViandenBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Vianden |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Vianden]]|wikidata=Q836082}}, [[Luxembourg]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:BiscayneNationalParkBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Biscayne National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Biscayne National Park]]|wikidata=Q866080}}, [[Florida]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:ParamariboBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Paramaribo |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Paramaribo]]|wikidata=Q3001}}, [[Suriname]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:MohenjoDaroBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Mohenjo-daro |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Mohenjo-daro]]|wikidata=Q5725}}, [[Pakistan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:ValledeCocoraBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Valle de Cocora |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Valle de Cocora]]|wikidata=Q965776}}, [[Colombia]]]] |} ===2013=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:MusandamBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Musandam Peninsula |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Musandam Peninsula]]|wikidata=Q3246200}}, [[Oman]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:Churchill-banner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Churchill |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Churchill]]|wikidata=Q744553}}, [[Manitoba]], [[Canada]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:ClarenceBanner2-2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Clarence (New York) |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Clarence (New York)|Clarence]]|wikidata=Q1061305}}, [[New York (state)|New York]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:La Macarena banner8.JPG|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=La Macarena |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[La Macarena]]|wikidata=Q973745}}, [[Colombia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:Soltau-toy museum banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Soltau |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Soltau]]|wikidata=Q504754}}, [[Germany]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:Childsbanner2.JPG|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Childs |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Childs]]|wikidata=Q5098606}}, [[New York (state)|New York]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:Ölgii-banner.JPG|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Ölgii |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Ölgii]]|wikidata=Q297060}}, [[Mongolia]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:Nevyansk-banner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Nevyansk |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Nevyansk]]|wikidata=Q165844}}, [[Russia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:Southpole-banner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= South Pole |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[South Pole]]|wikidata=Q933}}, [[Antarctica]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:Udupi Banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Udupi |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Udupi]]|wikidata=Q584295}}, [[India]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:Niameybanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Niamey|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Niamey]]|wikidata=Q3674}}, [[Niger]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:Воскресенский собор в Старой Руссе Banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Staraya Russa |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Staraya Russa]]|wikidata=Q196479}}, [[Russia]]]] |} ==Unofficial Off the Beaten Path== Featured on [[Wikivoyage:Wikivoyage and Wikitravel|Wikitravel]] before Wikivoyage was adopted as a Wikimedia project. ===2012=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=Swain's lock.jpg | article=Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park | location=[[Washington, D.C.|District of Columbia]]/[[Maryland]]/[[West Virginia]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=Cuc.Phuong.National.Park.jpg | article=Cuc Phuong National Park | location=[[Vietnam]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=Devils-marbles.jpg | article=Tennant Creek | location=[[Northern Territory]], [[Australia]] }} |- <!-- Canyonlands spans three months, so use wiki syntax rather than the template --> | valign="top" colspan="3" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July, August & September'''</div> [[File:Cliffs_in_Canyonlands2.jpeg|thumb|upright=2.5|center|link=Canyonlands National Park|[[Canyonlands National Park]], [[Utah]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=April | image=EindhovenLightTower.jpg | article=Eindhoven | location=[[Netherlands]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=Воскресенский собор в Старой Руссе.jpg | article=Staraya Russa | location=[[Russia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=Birkholm.1.jpg | article=Sydfynske Øhav | location=[[Denmark]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=January | image=Kuta_Lombok_View_from_hill_near_Pantai_Seger.JPG | article=Kuta (Lombok) | location=[[Indonesia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=February | image=Thistle cove.jpg | article=Cape Le Grand National Park | location=[[Australia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=March | image=Komaruyama Park in Nanao.JPG | article=Nanao (Japan)|Nanao | location=[[Japan]] {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q695892|name=[[Nanao (Japan)|Nanao]]}} }} |} ===2011=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=Lafayette_Co_Mississippi_courthouse_during_Double_Decker_Festival.jpg | article=Oxford (Mississippi) | location=[[Mississippi]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=Pyin U Lwin Myanmar.jpg | article=Pyin U Lwin | location=[[Myanmar]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=Sangu river.jpg | article=Bandarban | location=[[Bangladesh]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=July | image=Menzies_town_hall.jpg | article=Menzies | location=[[Australia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=August | image=DoulletHousesLevee17Nov05.jpg | article=New Orleans/Lower 9th Ward | location=[[New Orleans]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=September | image=Tongren-chedi.jpg | article=Tongren (Qinghai) | location=[[China]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=April | image=Jeju - Seongsan Ilchulbong 2.JPG | article=Jeju | location=[[South Korea]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=Ice fest Khabarovsk.JPG | article=Khabarovsk | location=[[Russia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=Wakkanai harbor.JPG | article=Wakkanai | location=[[Japan]] {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q267894|name=[[Wakkanai]]}} }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=January | image=Guatemala-Flores.jpg | article=Flores (Guatemala) | location=[[Guatemala]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=February | image=Speicher_jet_nas_pensacola.jpg | article=Pensacola | location=[[Florida]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=March | image=Feather falls.jpg | size=100px | article=Oroville (California) | location=[[California]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} |} ===2010=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=Mirima_National_Park.JPG | article=Kununurra | location=[[Australia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=Jim jim falls.jpg | article=Kakadu National Park | location=[[Australia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=Logs in Petrified Forest National Park.jpg | size=125px | article=Petrified Forest National Park | location=[[Arizona]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=July | image=SkiJumpFalunJake73.jpg | article=Falun | location=[[Sweden]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=August | image=Nieuwe Laanstraat (with Sint-Vituskerk in the background) in Hilversum, the Netherlands.jpg | article=Hilversum | location=[[Netherlands]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=September | image=VenangoCourthouse.JPG | article=Franklin (Venango County) | location=[[Pennsylvania]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=April | image=Ravello September 2007.jpg | article=Ravello | location=[[Italy]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=Sakhalin1.jpg | article=Sakhalin | location=[[Russia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=Semeru Bromo Temple.JPG | article=Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park | location=[[Indonesia]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=January | image=The Niger near the Kennedy Bridge, Niamey.jpg | article=Niamey | location=[[Niger]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=February | image=Tc_bar.jpg | article=Tobacco Caye | location=[[Belize]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=March | image=ParaglideWEB.jpg | article=Tromsø | location=[[Norway]] }} |} ===2009=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=KilkennyCastlePS.jpg | article=Kilkenny | location=[[Ireland]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=MaeSalong_PrincessMotherHall.JPG | article=Mae Salong | location=[[Thailand]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=Big Bend Texas.jpg | article=Big Bend National Park | location=[[Texas]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=July | image=Medieval building in Odense.jpg | article=Odense | location=[[Denmark]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=August | image=Colorado River Grand Valley.jpg | article=Colorado's Wine Country | location= }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=September | image=House on the Rock, Spring Green.jpg | size=105px | article=Spring Green | location=[[Wisconsin]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=April | image=Bird_Rock.jpg | article=Tywyn | location=[[United Kingdom]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=James Dalton Highway.jpg | article=Dalton Highway | location=[[Alaska]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=Jargalant Mountain2.JPG | article=Hovd | location=[[Mongolia]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=January | image=Smi_kidscart.jpg | article=Saint Martins Island | location=[[Bangladesh]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=February | image=Aerial photograph of Wake Island on 25 May 1941.jpg | article=Wake Island | location= }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=March | image=PerdanaPutra_Overview.JPG | article=Putrajaya | location=[[Malaysia]] }} |} ===2008=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=Bihoro Pass.JPG | article=Hitchhiking in Japan }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=Virgin_Gorda_12.jpg | article=Virgin Gorda | location=[[British Virgin Islands]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=RusAsian_bank_Yakutsk.jpg | article=Yakutsk | location=[[Russia]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=July | image=Dharamsala View.JPG | article=Dharamsala | location=[[India]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=August | image=National park mesa verde 1.jpg | article=Mesa Verde National Park | location=[[Colorado]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=September | image=JakarDzong.jpg | article=Jakar | location=[[Bhutan]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=April | image=Sihanoukville Cityscape.JPG | article=Sihanoukville | location=[[Cambodia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=Goristatue.JPG | article=Gori | location=[[Georgia (country)|Georgia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=Carrowmore Sligo Ireland.jpg | article=Sligo | location=[[Ireland]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=January | image=Havelock elephant.jpg | article=Havelock Island | location=[[India]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=February | image=Sunset_at_Cape_Macclear_(Malawi).jpg | article=Cape Maclear | location=[[Malawi]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=March | image=Sheki_street.jpg | article=Sheki | location=[[Azerbaijan]] }} |} ===2007=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=NamcheBazar1.jpg | article=Namche Bazaar | location=[[Nepal]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=South Africa-Tshwane-Rietvlei06.jpg | article=Rietvlei Nature Reserve | location=[[South Africa]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=Petra Jordan BW 37.JPG | article=Petra | location=[[Jordan]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=July | image=Sado_gold_mountain.jpg | article=Sado Island | location=[[Japan]] {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q499047|name=[[Sado Island]]}} }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=August | image=LeninMuseum Statue.JPG | article=Tampere | location=[[Finland]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=September | image=Shrine_Founder_Detail.JPG | article=Guinsa | location=[[South Korea]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=April | image=Ashikaga Gakko admin bldg.jpg | article=Ashikaga | location=[[Japan]] {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q374477|name=[[Ashikaga]]}} }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=Backhill.jpg | article=Berneray | location=[[United Kingdom]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=Dairen_Rus.steam.comp.jpg | article=Dalian | location=[[China]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=January | image=JSA ConferenceRooms.JPG | article=Panmunjeom | location=[[Korea]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=February | image=HoiAn_Shop_Lanterns.JPG | article=Hoi An | location=[[Vietnam]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=March | image=CadillacRanch.JPG | article=Route 66 | location=[[United States of America|United States]] }} |} ===2006=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=OrchidBay Beach2.JPG | article=Hinchinbrook Island | location=[[Australia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=Kazurabashi_IyaValley2.JPG | article=Iya Valley | location=[[Japan]] {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q3408660|name=[[Iya Valley]]}} }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=Pitcairn_Island_NOAA.jpg | article=Pitcairn Islands | location= }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=July | image=Denali-from-reflection-pond.jpg | article=Denali National Park | location=[[Alaska]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=August | image=Skaha_Lake.jpg | article=Penticton | location=[[British Columbia]], [[Canada]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=September | image=Elephants CrossingRiver.JPG | article=South Luangwa National Park | location=[[Zambia]] }} |- | &nbsp; {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=Glacier Mountains.JPG | article=Svalbard | location=[[Norway]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=IsleRoyaleLakesideCamp.jpg | article=Isle Royale National Park | location=[[Michigan]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} |} ==Honorary== A few [[previous Destinations of the month]] might have been chosen for "Off the beaten path" instead, if the feature had existed at the time: * '''March 2006:''' [[Yonaguni]], [[Japan]] * '''November 2005:''' [[Falkland Islands]] * '''September 2004:''' [[Perhentian Islands]], [[Malaysia]] * '''August 2004:''' [[Black Rock City]], [[Nevada]], [[United States of America|United States]] {{Title-Index page}} [[nl:Buiten de gebaande paden]] fdvt5g0jkii8r4rsvitt8pcb16q9yv4 5091098 5091096 2025-07-11T00:37:55Z SHB2000 2248002 /* 2025 */ 5091098 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Off the beaten path''' is a showcase article about a lesser-known or unusual travel destination, selected monthly by Wikivoyage's users. See [[Previous Destinations of the month]] for better-known destinations, [[Previous Featured travel topics]] for phrasebooks, itineraries and travel topics, and [[Project:Destination_of_the_month_candidates#Nominations_for_Off_the_Beaten_Path|Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates]] to nominate and discuss future "Off the beaten path" destinations. Previously featured destinations were: <br clear="all" /> {{mapframe|align=center|width=1000|height=500}} __NOTOC__ ==Previous features== Featured on Wikivoyage. ===2025=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div>[[File:VaalsBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Vaals|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Vaals]]|wikidata=Q9768}}, [[Limburg (Netherlands)|Limburg]], [[Netherlands]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div>[[File:NewEnglandNatPBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=New England National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[New England National Park]]|wikidata=Q1982368}}, [[New South Wales]], [[Australia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div>[[File:KhujandBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Khujand|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Khujand]]|wikidata=Q373808}}, [[Ferghana Valley (Tajikistan)|Ferghana Valley]], [[Tajikistan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div>[[File:BanteayChhmarBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Banteay Chhmar|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Banteay Chhmar]]|wikidata=Q1021162}}, [[Cambodia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div>[[File:TezpurBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Tezpur|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Tezpur]]|wikidata=Q1021162}}, [[Assam]], [[India]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div>[[File:ElHierroBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=El Hierro|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[El Hierro]]|wikidata=Q1036287}}, [[Canary Islands]], [[Spain]]]] |} ===2024=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div>[[File:YarrangobillyCavesBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Yarrangobilly Caves|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Yarrangobilly Caves]]|wikidata=Q8049538}}, [[New South Wales]], [[Australia]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div>[[File:PresidentePrudenteBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Presidente Prudente|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Presidente Prudente]]|wikidata=Q525618}}, Sao Paulo, [[Brazil]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div>[[File:LaTrembladeBanner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=La Tremblade|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[La Tremblade]]|wikidata=Q1106266}}, [[France]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div>[[File:MinotNDBanner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Minot|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Minot]]|wikidata=Q487201}}, [[North Dakota]], [[United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div>[[File:AthBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Ath|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Ath]]|wikidata=Q95096}}, [[Belgium]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div>[[File:MtBullerBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Mount Buller|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Mount Buller]]|wikidata=Q984117}}, [[Victoria (state)|Victoria]], [[Australia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div>[[File:NorthWestRiverBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=North West River|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[North West River]]|wikidata=Q7057307}}, [[Newfoundland and Labrador]], [[Canada]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div>[[File:BethlehemPABanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Bethlehem (Pennsylvania)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Bethlehem (Pennsylvania)|Bethlehem]]|wikidata=Q164380}}, [[Pennsylvania]], [[United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div>[[File:HagiBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Hagi|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Hagi]]|wikidata=Q378225}}, [[Japan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div>[[File:IquitosBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Iquitos|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Iquitos]]|wikidata=Q193289}}, [[Peru]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div>[[File:PuertoMorelosBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Puerto Morelos|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Puerto Morelos]]|wikidata=Q2117481}}, [[Mexico]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div>[[File:AirItamBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Air Itam|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Air Itam]]|wikidata=Q407381}}, [[Malaysia]]]] |} ===2023=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div>[[File:Easter Island dotm banner 5.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Easter Island|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Easter Island]]|wikidata=Q14452}}, [[Chile]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div>[[File:Pai Banner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Pai|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Pai]]|wikidata=Q2892289}}, [[Thailand]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div>[[File:Salem MA Banner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Salem (Massachusetts)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Salem (Massachusetts)|Salem]]|wikidata=Q54140}}, [[Massachusetts]], [[United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div>[[File:Copenhagen Amager banner Dragør Havn lodsmuseum.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Copenhagen/Amager|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Copenhagen/Amager|Amager]]|wikidata=Q210396}}, [[Copenhagen]], [[Denmark]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div>[[File:Longyearbyen banner 2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Longyearbyen|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Longyearbyen]]|wikidata=Q25923}}, [[Svalbard]], [[Norway]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div>[[File:Tombstone TP banner 2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Tombstone Territorial Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Tombstone Territorial Park]]|wikidata=Q844692}}, [[Yukon]], [[Canada]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div>[[File:Tutuala DOTM banner Jaco.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Tutuala|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Tutuala]]|wikidata=Q17505833}}, [[Timor-Leste]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div>[[File:Stamford DOTM banner Town Bridge.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Stamford (England)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Stamford (England)|Stamford]]|wikidata=Q1000662}}, [[England]], [[United Kingdom]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div>[[File:Klaksvík otbp banner 1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Klaksvík|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Klaksvík]]|wikidata=Q189361}}, [[Faroe Islands]], Kingdom of Denmark]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div>[[File:Guanajuato otbp banner La Galereña Tunnel.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Guanajuato|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Guanajuato|Guanajuato City]]|wikidata=Q61306}}, [[Guanajuato (state)|Guanajuato]], [[Mexico]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div>[[File:Jimbaran OtBP banner 1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Jimbaran|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Jimbaran]]|wikidata=Q670243}}, [[Bali]], [[Indonesia]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div>[[File:Navarre Beach Pier Wikivoyage banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Navarre (Florida)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Navarre (Florida)|Navarre]]|wikidata=Q6982123}}, [[Florida]], [[United States]]]] |} ===2022=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div>[[File:Gävle goat 2009 DotM banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=[[Gävle]]|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Gävle]]|wikidata=Q25748}}, [[Gävleborg County]], [[Sweden]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div>[[File:Cooch Behar Palace - Cooch Behar - West Bengal - 005 (cropped2).jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Cooch Behar|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Cooch Behar]]|wikidata=Q313640}}, [[West Bengal]], [[India]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div>[[File:Savai'i, Samoa banner 2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Savaii|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Savaii]]|wikidata=Q337519}}, [[Samoa]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div>[[File:Budderoo otbp banner 4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Budderoo National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Budderoo National Park]]|wikidata=Q956929}}, [[New South Wales]], [[Australia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div>[[File:Deventer MP banner Lebuïnuskerk.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Deventer|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Deventer]]|wikidata=Q10001}}, [[Overijssel]], [[Netherlands]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div>[[File:Farnborough otbp banner Red Arrows and A400M.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Farnborough|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Farnborough]]|wikidata=Q547071}}, [[England]], [[United Kingdom]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div>[[File:Homer otbp banner 1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Homer|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Homer]]|wikidata=Q79441}}, [[Alaska]], [[United States of America]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div>[[File:Percé Wikivoyage feature banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Percé|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Percé]]|wikidata=Q141991}}, [[Quebec]], [[Canada]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div>[[File:Alishan otbp banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Alishan|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Alishan]]|wikidata=Q707585}}, [[Taiwan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div>[[File:Magome otbp banner 1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Magome|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Magome]]|wikidata=Q1433284}}, [[Japan]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div>[[File: San Ignacio (Belize) banner Burns Avenue.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=[[San Ignacio (Belize)]]|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[San Ignacio (Belize)|San Ignacio]]|wikidata=Q724815}}, [[Belize]] ]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div>[[File:Koror otbp banner 1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Koror|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Koror]] |wikidata=Q527748}}, [[Palau]]]] |} ===2021=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div>[[File:Montserrat otbp banner 2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=[[Montserrat]]|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Montserrat]]|wikidata=Q13353}} ]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div>[[File:Twilight Plymouth MA Wikivoyage DOTM banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Plymouth (Massachusetts)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Plymouth (Massachusetts)|Plymouth]]|wikidata=Q326295}}, [[Massachusetts]], [[United States]] ]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div>[[File:Chavín de Huántar main page banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Chavín de Huántar|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Chavín de Huántar]]|wikidata=Q732554}}, [[Peru]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div>[[File:Diablo Range DOTM Banner 3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Diablo Range|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Diablo Range]]|wikidata=Q2241223}}, [[California]], [[United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:BergenGermanyBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Bergen (Germany)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Bergen (Germany)|Bergen]]|wikidata=Q505665}}, [[Lower Saxony]], [[Germany]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:Neuland banner Iglesia Mennonita.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Neuland|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Neuland]]|wikidata=Q1709409}}, [[Paraguay]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:Visp banner Panorama.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Visp|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Visp]]|wikidata=Q64147}}, [[Switzerland]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:CrawfordBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Crawford (Nebraska)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Crawford (Nebraska)|Crawford]]|wikidata=Q963768}}, [[Nebraska]], [[United States of America]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:SimpelveldBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Simpelveld|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Simpelveld]]|wikidata=Q9769}}, [[Netherlands]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:PdCBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Porto da Cruz|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Porto da Cruz]]|wikidata=Q932115}}, [[Madeira]], [[Portugal]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:BelgraveBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Belgrave|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Belgrave]]|wikidata=Q815564}}, [[Victoria (state)|Victoria]], [[Australia]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:TorresBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Torres del Paine National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Torres del Paine National Park]]|wikidata=Q901646}}, [[Chile]]]] |} ===2020=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:NSBBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=New Smyrna Beach|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[New Smyrna Beach]]|wikidata=Q375375}}, [[Florida]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:IriomoteBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Iriomote|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Iriomote]]|wikidata=Q432124}}, [[Japan]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:NkhataBayBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Nkhata Bay|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Nkhata Bay]]|wikidata=Q1370650}}, [[Malawi]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:AlcamoBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Alcamo|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Alcamo]]|wikidata=Q481544}}, [[Italy]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:ApiaBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Apia|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Apia]]|wikidata=Q36260}}, [[Samoa]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:FaaborgBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Faaborg|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Faaborg]]|wikidata=Q3547421}}, [[Denmark]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:KarakolBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Karakol|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Karakol]]|wikidata=Q194452}}, [[Kyrgyzstan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:NagyBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Nagykanizsa|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Nagykanizsa]]|wikidata=Q14424}}, [[Hungary]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:ThimphuBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Thimphu|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Thimphu]]|wikidata=Q9270}}, [[Bhutan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:GBNPBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Great Basin National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Great Basin National Park]]|wikidata=Q1137657}}, [[Nevada]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:JBayBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Jeffreys Bay|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Jeffreys Bay]]|wikidata=Q585092}}, [[South Africa]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:NorfolkIslandBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Norfolk Island|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Norfolk Island]]|wikidata=Q31057}}]] |} ===2019=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:PakseBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Pakse|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Pakse]]|wikidata=Q383622}}, [[Laos]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:JVDBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Jost Van Dyke|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Jost Van Dyke]]|wikidata=Q1330151}}, [[British Virgin Islands]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:LetchworthBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Letchworth State Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Letchworth State Park]]|wikidata=Q1303662}}, [[New York (state)|New York]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:KPPBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Kamphaeng Phet|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Kamphaeng Phet]]|wikidata=Q2960445}}, [[Thailand]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:OlomoucBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Olomouc|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Olomouc]]|wikidata=Q81137}}, [[Czech Republic]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:YYPBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Yuryev-Polsky|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Yuryev-Polsky]]|wikidata=Q198826}}, [[Russia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:IlulissatBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Ilulissat|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Ilulissat]]|wikidata=Q191047}}, [[Greenland]], Kingdom of Denmark]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:Pleasanton OTBP Banner 3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Pleasanton|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Pleasanton]]|wikidata=Q747444}}, [[California]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:Bouzigues Banner 2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Bouzigues|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Bouzigues]]|wikidata=Q769568}}, [[France]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:ChapelHillBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Chapel Hill|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Chapel Hill]]|wikidata=Q671812}}, [[North Carolina]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:KhasabBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Khasab|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Khasab]]|wikidata=Q426646}}, [[Oman]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:ChathamIslandsBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Chatham Islands|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Chatham Islands]]|wikidata=Q115459}}, [[New Zealand]]]] |} ===2018=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:BanosBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Baños|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Baños]]|wikidata=Q812717}}, [[Ecuador]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:KeenjharLakeBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Keenjhar Lake|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Keenjhar Lake]]|wikidata=Q3246838}}, [[Pakistan]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:VallettaBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Valletta|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Valletta]]|wikidata=Q23800}}, [[Malta]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:BronzevilleBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Chicago/Bronzeville|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Chicago/Bronzeville|Bronzeville]]|wikidata=Q4823292}}, [[Chicago]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:GorokaBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Goroka|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Goroka]]|wikidata=Q498192}}, [[Papua New Guinea]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:HofnBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Höfn|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Höfn]]|wikidata=Q817118}}, [[Iceland]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:PitonBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Piton de la Fournaise|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Piton de la Fournaise]]|wikidata=Q1049644}}, [[Réunion]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:ErlangenBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Erlangen|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Erlangen]]|wikidata=Q3126}}, [[Germany]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:PorosBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Poros|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Poros]]|wikidata=Q724394}}, [[Greece]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:BrownsvilleBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Brownsville (Texas)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Brownsville (Texas)|Brownsville]]|wikidata=Q51693}}, [[Texas]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:KakamegaBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Kakamega Rainforest|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Kakamega Rainforest]]|wikidata=Q1397614}}, [[Kenya]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:UkulhasBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Ukulhas|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Ukulhas]]|wikidata=Q4177376}}, [[Maldives]]]] |} ===2017=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:BozemanBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Bozeman|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Bozeman]]|wikidata=Q569678}}, [[Montana]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:SdeBokerBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Sde Boker|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Sde Boker]]|wikidata=Q1026531}}, [[Israel]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:FiladelfiaBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Filadelfia|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Filadelfia]]|wikidata=Q733744}}, [[Paraguay]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:KurashikiBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Kurashiki|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Kurashiki]]|wikidata=Q467487}}, [[Japan]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:YuzhnoBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk]]|wikidata=Q7859}}, [[Russia]]]] | valign="top" colspaN="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:GroningenBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Groningen|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Groningen]]|wikidata=Q749}}, [[Netherlands]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:LabradorBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Labrador|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Labrador]]|wikidata=Q380307}}, [[Canada]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:WernigerodeBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Wernigerode|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Wernigerode]]|wikidata=Q15982}}, [[Germany]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:NauruBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Nauru|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Nauru]]|wikidata=Q697}}]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:KabakBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Kabak|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Kabak]]|wikidata=Q14219977}}, [[Turkey]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:EntebbeBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Entebbe]]|wikidata=Q211970}}, [[Uganda]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:StanleyFalklandsBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Stanley (Falkland Islands)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Stanley (Falkland Islands)|Stanley]]|wikidata=Q12245}}, [[Falkland Islands]]]] |} ===2016=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:NCNMBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=North Central New Mexico|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[North Central New Mexico]]|wikidata=Q14227143}}, [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:LEIBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Lady Elliot Island|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Lady Elliot Island]]|wikidata=Q1779299}}, [[Queensland]], [[Australia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:CaldasBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Caldas da Rainha|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Caldas da Rainha]]|wikidata=Q275689}}, [[Portugal]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:AnacostiaBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Washington, D.C./Anacostia|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Washington, D.C./Anacostia|Anacostia]]|wikidata=Q4579829}}, [[Washington, D.C.]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:SalalahBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Salalah|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Salalah]]|wikidata=Q1294439}}, [[Oman]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:PalmyraNYBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Palmyra (New York)|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Palmyra (New York)|Palmyra]]|wikidata=Q2270605}}, [[New York (state)|New York]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:HampsteadBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=London/Hampstead|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[London/Hampstead|Hampstead]]|wikidata=Q25610}}, [[London]], [[United Kingdom]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:DilijanBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Dilijan|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Dilijan]]|wikidata=Q39569}}, [[Armenia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:RinjaniBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Mount Rinjani|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Mount Rinjani]]|wikidata=Q847323}}, [[Indonesia]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:SwakopmundBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Swakopmund|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Swakopmund]]|wikidata=Q59698}}, [[Namibia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:HiloBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Hilo|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Hilo]]|wikidata=Q216258}}, [[Hawaii]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:EinGediBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Ein Gedi|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Ein Gedi]]|wikidata=Q1011544}}, [[Israel]]]] |} ===2015=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:TaxilaBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Taxila|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Taxila]]|wikidata=Q156093}}, [[Punjab (Pakistan)|Pubjab]] [[Pakistan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:PraiaBanner6.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Praia|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Praia]]|wikidata=Q3751}}, [[Cape Verde]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:HydenBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Hyden|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Hyden]]|wikidata=Q1377673}}, [[Western Australia]], [[Australia]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:AltaiTavanBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Altai Tavan Bogd National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Altai Tavan Bogd National Park]]|wikidata=Q932232}}, [[Mongolia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:DavenportBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Davenport|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Davenport]]|wikidata=Q26887}}, [[Iowa]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:TrondheimBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Trondheim|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Trondheim]]|wikidata=Q25804}}, [[Norway]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:Turku Wikivoyage banner OtBP 2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Turku|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Turku]]|wikidata=Q38511}}, [[Finland]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:Iseo banner2.jpeg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Iseo|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Iseo]]|wikidata=Q104911}}, [[Italy]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:SierraVistaBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Sierra Vista|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Sierra Vista]]|wikidata=Q79891}}, [[Arizona]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:UshuaiaBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Ushuaia|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Ushuaia]]|wikidata=Q44254}}, [[Argentina]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:KirtharNationalParkBanner5.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Kirthar National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Kirthar National Park]]|wikidata=Q1743664}}, [[Pakistan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:SabaBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Saba|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Saba]]|wikidata=Q25528}}]] |} ===2014=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:FoxGlacierBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Fox Glacier|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Fox Glacier]]|wikidata=Q1147722}}, [[New Zealand]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:TaketomiBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Taketomi|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Taketomi]]|wikidata=Q474560}}, [[Japan]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:MitzpeRamonBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Mitzpe Ramon|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Mitzpe Ramon]]|wikidata=Q741793}}, [[Israel]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:Vava'uBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Vava'u|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Vava'u]]|wikidata=Q859666}}, [[Tonga]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:ChicagoFarNWSideBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Chicago/Far Northwest Side|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Chicago/Far Northwest Side|Far Northwest Side]]|wikidata=Q14211257}}, [[Chicago]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:IqaluitBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Iqaluit |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Iqaluit]]|wikidata=Q2030}}, [[Nunavut]], [[Canada]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:TravemundeBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Travemünde |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Travemünde]]|wikidata=Q321792}}, [[Germany]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:ViandenBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Vianden |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Vianden]]|wikidata=Q836082}}, [[Luxembourg]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:BiscayneNationalParkBanner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=Biscayne National Park|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Biscayne National Park]]|wikidata=Q866080}}, [[Florida]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:ParamariboBanner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Paramaribo |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Paramaribo]]|wikidata=Q3001}}, [[Suriname]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:MohenjoDaroBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Mohenjo-daro |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Mohenjo-daro]]|wikidata=Q5725}}, [[Pakistan]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:ValledeCocoraBanner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Valle de Cocora |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Valle de Cocora]]|wikidata=Q965776}}, [[Colombia]]]] |} ===2013=== {|border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''December'''</div> [[File:MusandamBanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Musandam Peninsula |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Musandam Peninsula]]|wikidata=Q3246200}}, [[Oman]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''November'''</div> [[File:Churchill-banner4.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Churchill |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Churchill]]|wikidata=Q744553}}, [[Manitoba]], [[Canada]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''October'''</div> [[File:ClarenceBanner2-2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Clarence (New York) |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Clarence (New York)|Clarence]]|wikidata=Q1061305}}, [[New York (state)|New York]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''September'''</div> [[File:La Macarena banner8.JPG|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link=La Macarena |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[La Macarena]]|wikidata=Q973745}}, [[Colombia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''August'''</div> [[File:Soltau-toy museum banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Soltau |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Soltau]]|wikidata=Q504754}}, [[Germany]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July'''</div> [[File:Childsbanner2.JPG|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Childs |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Childs]]|wikidata=Q5098606}}, [[New York (state)|New York]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''June'''</div> [[File:Ölgii-banner.JPG|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Ölgii |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Ölgii]]|wikidata=Q297060}}, [[Mongolia]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''May'''</div> [[File:Nevyansk-banner2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Nevyansk |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Nevyansk]]|wikidata=Q165844}}, [[Russia]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''April'''</div> [[File:Southpole-banner3.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= South Pole |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[South Pole]]|wikidata=Q933}}, [[Antarctica]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''March'''</div> [[File:Udupi Banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Udupi |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Udupi]]|wikidata=Q584295}}, [[India]]]] |- | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''February'''</div> [[File:Niameybanner1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Niamey|{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Niamey]]|wikidata=Q3674}}, [[Niger]]]] | valign="top" colspan="2" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''January'''</div> [[File:Воскресенский собор в Старой Руссе Banner.jpg|thumb|upright=1.7|center|link= Staraya Russa |{{Marker|type=city|name=[[Staraya Russa]]|wikidata=Q196479}}, [[Russia]]]] |} ==Unofficial Off the Beaten Path== Featured on [[Wikivoyage:Wikivoyage and Wikitravel|Wikitravel]] before Wikivoyage was adopted as a Wikimedia project. ===2012=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=Swain's lock.jpg | article=Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park | location=[[Washington, D.C.|District of Columbia]]/[[Maryland]]/[[West Virginia]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=Cuc.Phuong.National.Park.jpg | article=Cuc Phuong National Park | location=[[Vietnam]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=Devils-marbles.jpg | article=Tennant Creek | location=[[Northern Territory]], [[Australia]] }} |- <!-- Canyonlands spans three months, so use wiki syntax rather than the template --> | valign="top" colspan="3" style="text-align:center;" | <div style="padding: 10px;">'''July, August & September'''</div> [[File:Cliffs_in_Canyonlands2.jpeg|thumb|upright=2.5|center|link=Canyonlands National Park|[[Canyonlands National Park]], [[Utah]], [[United States of America|United States]]]] |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=April | image=EindhovenLightTower.jpg | article=Eindhoven | location=[[Netherlands]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=Воскресенский собор в Старой Руссе.jpg | article=Staraya Russa | location=[[Russia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=Birkholm.1.jpg | article=Sydfynske Øhav | location=[[Denmark]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=January | image=Kuta_Lombok_View_from_hill_near_Pantai_Seger.JPG | article=Kuta (Lombok) | location=[[Indonesia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=February | image=Thistle cove.jpg | article=Cape Le Grand National Park | location=[[Australia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=March | image=Komaruyama Park in Nanao.JPG | article=Nanao (Japan)|Nanao | location=[[Japan]] {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q695892|name=[[Nanao (Japan)|Nanao]]}} }} |} ===2011=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=Lafayette_Co_Mississippi_courthouse_during_Double_Decker_Festival.jpg | article=Oxford (Mississippi) | location=[[Mississippi]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=Pyin U Lwin Myanmar.jpg | article=Pyin U Lwin | location=[[Myanmar]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=Sangu river.jpg | article=Bandarban | location=[[Bangladesh]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=July | image=Menzies_town_hall.jpg | article=Menzies | location=[[Australia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=August | image=DoulletHousesLevee17Nov05.jpg | article=New Orleans/Lower 9th Ward | location=[[New Orleans]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=September | image=Tongren-chedi.jpg | article=Tongren (Qinghai) | location=[[China]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=April | image=Jeju - Seongsan Ilchulbong 2.JPG | article=Jeju | location=[[South Korea]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=Ice fest Khabarovsk.JPG | article=Khabarovsk | location=[[Russia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=Wakkanai harbor.JPG | article=Wakkanai | location=[[Japan]] {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q267894|name=[[Wakkanai]]}} }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=January | image=Guatemala-Flores.jpg | article=Flores (Guatemala) | location=[[Guatemala]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=February | image=Speicher_jet_nas_pensacola.jpg | article=Pensacola | location=[[Florida]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=March | image=Feather falls.jpg | size=100px | article=Oroville (California) | location=[[California]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} |} ===2010=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=Mirima_National_Park.JPG | article=Kununurra | location=[[Australia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=Jim jim falls.jpg | article=Kakadu National Park | location=[[Australia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=Logs in Petrified Forest National Park.jpg | size=125px | article=Petrified Forest National Park | location=[[Arizona]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=July | image=SkiJumpFalunJake73.jpg | article=Falun | location=[[Sweden]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=August | image=Nieuwe Laanstraat (with Sint-Vituskerk in the background) in Hilversum, the Netherlands.jpg | article=Hilversum | location=[[Netherlands]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=September | image=VenangoCourthouse.JPG | article=Franklin (Venango County) | location=[[Pennsylvania]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=April | image=Ravello September 2007.jpg | article=Ravello | location=[[Italy]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=Sakhalin1.jpg | article=Sakhalin | location=[[Russia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=Semeru Bromo Temple.JPG | article=Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park | location=[[Indonesia]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=January | image=The Niger near the Kennedy Bridge, Niamey.jpg | article=Niamey | location=[[Niger]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=February | image=Tc_bar.jpg | article=Tobacco Caye | location=[[Belize]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=March | image=ParaglideWEB.jpg | article=Tromsø | location=[[Norway]] }} |} ===2009=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=KilkennyCastlePS.jpg | article=Kilkenny | location=[[Ireland]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=MaeSalong_PrincessMotherHall.JPG | article=Mae Salong | location=[[Thailand]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=Big Bend Texas.jpg | article=Big Bend National Park | location=[[Texas]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=July | image=Medieval building in Odense.jpg | article=Odense | location=[[Denmark]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=August | image=Colorado River Grand Valley.jpg | article=Colorado's Wine Country | location= }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=September | image=House on the Rock, Spring Green.jpg | size=105px | article=Spring Green | location=[[Wisconsin]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=April | image=Bird_Rock.jpg | article=Tywyn | location=[[United Kingdom]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=James Dalton Highway.jpg | article=Dalton Highway | location=[[Alaska]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=Jargalant Mountain2.JPG | article=Hovd | location=[[Mongolia]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=January | image=Smi_kidscart.jpg | article=Saint Martins Island | location=[[Bangladesh]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=February | image=Aerial photograph of Wake Island on 25 May 1941.jpg | article=Wake Island | location= }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=March | image=PerdanaPutra_Overview.JPG | article=Putrajaya | location=[[Malaysia]] }} |} ===2008=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=Bihoro Pass.JPG | article=Hitchhiking in Japan }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=Virgin_Gorda_12.jpg | article=Virgin Gorda | location=[[British Virgin Islands]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=RusAsian_bank_Yakutsk.jpg | article=Yakutsk | location=[[Russia]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=July | image=Dharamsala View.JPG | article=Dharamsala | location=[[India]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=August | image=National park mesa verde 1.jpg | article=Mesa Verde National Park | location=[[Colorado]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=September | image=JakarDzong.jpg | article=Jakar | location=[[Bhutan]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=April | image=Sihanoukville Cityscape.JPG | article=Sihanoukville | location=[[Cambodia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=Goristatue.JPG | article=Gori | location=[[Georgia (country)|Georgia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=Carrowmore Sligo Ireland.jpg | article=Sligo | location=[[Ireland]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=January | image=Havelock elephant.jpg | article=Havelock Island | location=[[India]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=February | image=Sunset_at_Cape_Macclear_(Malawi).jpg | article=Cape Maclear | location=[[Malawi]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=March | image=Sheki_street.jpg | article=Sheki | location=[[Azerbaijan]] }} |} ===2007=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=NamcheBazar1.jpg | article=Namche Bazaar | location=[[Nepal]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=South Africa-Tshwane-Rietvlei06.jpg | article=Rietvlei Nature Reserve | location=[[South Africa]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=Petra Jordan BW 37.JPG | article=Petra | location=[[Jordan]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=July | image=Sado_gold_mountain.jpg | article=Sado Island | location=[[Japan]] {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q499047|name=[[Sado Island]]}} }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=August | image=LeninMuseum Statue.JPG | article=Tampere | location=[[Finland]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=September | image=Shrine_Founder_Detail.JPG | article=Guinsa | location=[[South Korea]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=April | image=Ashikaga Gakko admin bldg.jpg | article=Ashikaga | location=[[Japan]] {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q374477|name=[[Ashikaga]]}} }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=Backhill.jpg | article=Berneray | location=[[United Kingdom]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=Dairen_Rus.steam.comp.jpg | article=Dalian | location=[[China]] }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=January | image=JSA ConferenceRooms.JPG | article=Panmunjeom | location=[[Korea]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=February | image=HoiAn_Shop_Lanterns.JPG | article=Hoi An | location=[[Vietnam]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=March | image=CadillacRanch.JPG | article=Route 66 | location=[[United States of America|United States]] }} |} ===2006=== {| border="0" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" align="center" |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=October | image=OrchidBay Beach2.JPG | article=Hinchinbrook Island | location=[[Australia]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=November | image=Kazurabashi_IyaValley2.JPG | article=Iya Valley | location=[[Japan]] {{Marker|type=city|wikidata=Q3408660|name=[[Iya Valley]]}} }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=December | image=Pitcairn_Island_NOAA.jpg | article=Pitcairn Islands | location= }} |- {{Featured-article-archive | month=July | image=Denali-from-reflection-pond.jpg | article=Denali National Park | location=[[Alaska]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=August | image=Skaha_Lake.jpg | article=Penticton | location=[[British Columbia]], [[Canada]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=September | image=Elephants CrossingRiver.JPG | article=South Luangwa National Park | location=[[Zambia]] }} |- | &nbsp; {{Featured-article-archive | month=May | image=Glacier Mountains.JPG | article=Svalbard | location=[[Norway]] }} {{Featured-article-archive | month=June | image=IsleRoyaleLakesideCamp.jpg | article=Isle Royale National Park | location=[[Michigan]], [[United States of America|United States]] }} |} ==Honorary== A few [[previous Destinations of the month]] might have been chosen for "Off the beaten path" instead, if the feature had existed at the time: * '''March 2006:''' [[Yonaguni]], [[Japan]] * '''November 2005:''' [[Falkland Islands]] * '''September 2004:''' [[Perhentian Islands]], [[Malaysia]] * '''August 2004:''' [[Black Rock City]], [[Nevada]], [[United States of America|United States]] {{Title-Index page}} [[nl:Buiten de gebaande paden]] nfks650tdvmbz93dazvolkl56ev9w6m 0 28763 5091018 5088812 2025-07-10T19:07:40Z Yugantaran 2328997 Information added 5091018 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|PuriH.jpg}} [[File:Shri Jagannatha Temple.jpg|right|thumb|Jagannath Temple, Puri]] [[File:Puri sea beach in Puri city 09.jpg|thumb|Puri Beach]] '''Puri''' (ପୁରୀ ''Purī''), also known as '''Jagannath Puri''' (the Abode of Lord Jagannath) or '''Purushottama Puri''', is a seaside pilgrimage town in the [[India|Indian]] state of [[Odisha]]. It is a major tourist destination with the famous temple of Lord Jagannath (means Lord of the World) and a very long beach offering beautiful and pleasant sights. There are many hotels; most overseas tourists stay near the beach. ==Understand== Puri ([[Odia phrasebook|poo-rih]]) literally means "city" in Sanskrit. It appeals to both pilgrims and vacationers as it blends religion with fun. Puri is one of the Char Dham (Four Abodes) sites that are considered sacred to the Hindus, and the Jagannath Temple is an example of the Kalinga architecture. The {{km|9}} long sea beach is another major attraction of the city with its fantastic sea face view and golden sand; the water is a bit rough (which is good if you like to surf). ==Talk== Like the rest of Odisha, most people in Puri speak [[Odia]]. Due to the presence of people from various parts of India, there would not be a language problem for people who speak any other major Indian languages. [[Hindi]] and [[Bengali]] are also widely understood. ==Get in== ===By plane=== The nearest airport is in [[Bhubaneswar]], ({{km|60}}) from Puri. Then take a train or bus to reach your destination. ===By train=== Puri is well-connected by railways. Trains are available from [[Howrah]], [[New Delhi]], [[Ahmedabad]], [[Bhubaneswar]] etc. It is also a major railhead on the East Coast Railway, bifurcated from Khurda Road. {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Puri railway station|city=india|ecor}}|wikidata=Q7261236}} is in the heart of the town and near to most hotels. While arriving by train, go to the Odisha State Tourist counter at the station for advice; they are usually very helpful and speak English. The MCO Booth is also quite helpful. ===By bus=== Puri is approximately 1½ hours or 60 km from Bhubaneswar and the journey costs about ₹130. ==Get around== {{mapframe|19.81|85.82|zoom=13|width=600|height=370}} You can use cycle rickshaws, auto-rickshaws or electric rickshaws but agree on a price before you set off. Just to avoid a horrible experience in the beginning confirm twice on the price, as they frequently try to charge you more than you agreed on. There are places on C.T. Road where you can hire a Royal Enfield motorbike, good if you want to drive along the coast to Konark (Sun Temple). A cycle rickshaw is in the range of ₹520. ==See and do== [[File:Camel ride along the beach.jpg|thumb|Camel ride along the Puri Beach]] * {{see | name=Puri Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.7962 | long=85.8267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7261228 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=The 8-km long beach of Puri, and is ideal for surfing and cool for a dip. The beach is covered in golden sand. The waves can also be high and rough during the full moon. Camel and horse rides are available. Seating is available for 45 minutes at cost. Please do not litter the beach to keep its magnificent view intact. You have to be careful about swimming off the Chakra Tirtha Rd end of the beach because there is a canal that carries raw sewage into the ocean. }} * {{see | name=Puri–Konark Marine Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.8283 | long=85.8684 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This road is in superb condition. It is peppered with deserted beaches and many rivers flow into the sea in places visible, if not accessible, from the road. Some beaches are said to have quicksand. Along the way, there is a temple Ramchandi, which is a popular picnic spot amongst the locals, as non-vegetarian food is allowed in the temple. }} * {{see | name=Swargadwar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.79309 | long=85.81732 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q22811445 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=Literally, "the gateway to heaven", Swargadwar is the site of the cremation of almost all famous Odia people. There are good hotels and restaurants near the crematorium. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Gundicha temple.jpg|thumb|Gundicha Temple]] [[File:Three Chariots in front of the Jagannath Temple after Bahuda Yatra in 2022.jpg|thumb|Jagannath Temple during 2022 Ratha Yatra]] * {{see | name=Gundicha Temple | alt=ଗୁଣ୍ଡିଚା ମନ୍ଦିର ''Guṇḍicā Mandira'' | url=http://www.jagannath.nic.in/ | email= | address= | lat=19.816897 | long=85.839867 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q2093288 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=The destination of the Ratha Yatra from Jagannath Temple. It is occupied by Lord Jagannath and his siblings for seven days every year. It is in the centre of a beautiful garden, surrounded by compound walls on all sides. Tourists don't have to pay any fee to enter the temple, it's considered that Lord Jagannath ensures all of his devotees equally. }} * {{see | name=Jagannath Temple | alt=ଜଗନ୍ନାଥ ମନ୍ଦିର ''Jagannātha Mandira'' | url=https://www.shreejagannatha.in/ | email= | address= | lat=19.804722 | long=85.818333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1678260 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=One of the Char Dham temples, i.e. most sacred pilgrimage places of Hindus. Constructed in the 11th century is the starting point of the world-famous Ratha Yatra, held in July. Shoes, cameras, mobile phones and leather products are prohibited within the temple complex, you have to submit them at nearby shoe stands. The temple is open only for "orthodox" Hindus and they must dress conservatively. Beware of crowds around the main temple. Do lean against the Shani temple, watch the summit of the temple and savour the temple food or bhog. The temple complex is huge and has some very interesting stories associated, priests or pāṇḍās are generally the ones who conduct the non-Odia people around and generally mention all these stories although they can demand exorbitant amounts; bring it down to something reasonable. It is possible to go into the sanctum sanctorum and touch the deities in the main temple for a fee. }} * {{see | name=Lokanatha Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.803493 | long=85.801156 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6504454 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=Dedicated to Lord Shiva, is said to be the place where Lord Shiva hid himself from Shani, under a pond. The Shivalinga here is partially submerged and the pond is teeming with fish. Priests here tend to be very strict so maintain etiquette. Shoes, cameras, mobile phones and bags are prohibited within the temple complex, you have to submit them at a nearby stand. }} ===Events=== '''Ratha Yatra''' (literally "chariot journey") is the main festival in Puri and is celebrated in June-July every year. On the first day, Jagannath and his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra are transported in chariots (''rathas'') from Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple. They remain in chariots on the first day and enter Gundicha Temple on the second day. These deities return to Jagannath Temple after seven days, known as "Bahuda Yatra". The area between Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple remains crowded during the Ratha Yatra, therefore be prepared during these times. ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Puri Beach Market | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.79287 | long=85.81848 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=5&ndash;10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content= }} ==Eat== [[File:Chena podo.JPG|thumb|''Chena podo'' or baked cottage cheese at Puri]] * {{eat | name=Chung Wah | alt=At Hotel Lee Garden | url= | email= | address=VIP Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Netaji Subhash Chowk | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-01-27 | content=Good Chinese food. }} * {{eat | name=Dada Boudir Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Swargadwar | lat=19.79471 | long=85.81839 | directions=opposite Bharat Sevashram Sangha Library | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=Puri branch of Kolkata's popular Dada Boudir Restaurant. Authentic Bengali food. }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=Swargadwar | lat=19.79370 | long=85.81834 | directions=in front of Handloom Gardens | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-09-17 | content=There are several sweet shops under the name "Ganguram Sweets", among which the one in front of Handloom Gardens is the oldest. It has no branches. }} * {{eat |name=Kakatua |alt= |comment= |address= |directions= |phone= |fax= |email= |url= |hours= |price= |lat= |long= |description=near the Iskcon temple in Swargadwara there is a good sweet shop/restaurant with a cockatoo outside and the resto is named after it.}} * {{eat |name=Krishna Resorts |alt= |comment= |address= |directions= |phone= |fax= |email= |url= |hours= |price= |lat= |long= |description=Pure vegetarian restaurant with Gujarati and marwari thali on Chakratirth road.}} * {{eat | name=Original Nrusingha Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.79357 | long=85.81824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-09-17 | content=There are several sweet shops under the name "Nrusingha Sweets" or "Nursingha Sweets", among which the Original Nrusingha Sweets is the oldest. It has four branches. }} * {{eat |name=Shyama |alt= |comment= |address= |directions= |phone= |fax= |email= |url= |hours= |price= |lat= |long= |description=Pure vegetarian restaurant opposite the Jagannath temple on the Grand Road above the shops on the corner. There are many restaurants in Swargadwara, New Puri and CT. Road.}} * {{eat | name=Wild Grass | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Netaji Subhas Chowk | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-01-27 | content=Theme restaurant serving local delicacies. }} * '''Pure Veg Restaurants in Puri, Odisha''' ==Sleep== {{cautionbox|To avoid the unsavoury, corrupt, and thoroughly untrustworthy booking services based in [[Kolkata]], it is best to get a place to stay on arrival '''without''' advance reservation. If you are booking a room on spot at Puri, please ask for a sea-facing room. A sea-facing non-AC room is much better than an AC non-sea-facing room.}} Puri is a very popular holiday resort for people from all over India but they tend to stay in the hotels nearer to Swargadwar (rather than C.T. Road). These hotels are often affordable and offer quality services at very reasonable rates. * {{sleep | name=Asian Inn Beach Resort | alt= | url= | email= | address=New Marine Drive Road, Swargadwar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-09-17 | content=This 3-storey resort has modern facilities including elevators, with a good view of the Bay of Bengal. There's an air-conditioned restaurant and a conference room. There is also a doctor on call, laundry, locker and secretarial services. }} *{{sleep | name=Balananda Tirthasram & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sea Beach Rd | lat= | long= | directions=After meteorological office, opposite sea beach | phone=+91 6752228727 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹325-425 per room, ₹24 per vegetarian meal (as of 2012) | checkin=Morning | checkout=24 hours | content=Family hotel with sea views from each balcony. You can see the sea from your room balcony. You have to order and collect your coupon each morning before 10 for lunch starting at 12:30PM. Same for dinner and breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Deep Resorts | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹750-1400 | checkin=7:30AM | checkout=7AM | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Gochikar House | url= | email= | address=New Marine Drive Road, Swargodwar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500-12000 | checkin= | checkout=7AM | content=Sea view rooms, travel desk. }} * {{sleep | name=Hans Coco Palms Resort | alt= | url=http://www.hanshotels.com/coco-palms-hotel-puri/hotel-info.html | email=info@hanshotels.com | address=Baliapanda New Marine Drive Road, Swargdwar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4809 1108 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Quiet location and a swimming pool. The hotel has a private beach, although there are only two canopies for guests. There are no lifeguards (nulia), but you can hire one if you wish. Breakfast (especially the Hans Coco Palms Special) is a good value and wholesome. Try the tomato shorba and 'thaali' for lunch/dinner. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Diamond Palace | url=http://www.hoteldiamondpalacepuri.com | email=hoteldiamond@hoteldiamondpalacepuri.com | address=New Marine Drive Road, Gourbad Sahi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 6752 230300 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹600-₹000 | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Pushpasree | alt= | url=http://www.sensonmedia.net/hotelpushpasree.htm | email=hotelpushpasree@gmail.com | address=New Marine Drive Road, Gourbad Sahi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 6752 254157 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600-800 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Sairam | alt= | url= | email= | address=CT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Marine Drive Road near Sansangha Thakurbadi, 10 m from Golden Beach | phone= | tollfree= | checkin=8AM | checkout=7:30AM | price=₹500-1000 | lastedit=2021-01-24 | content=Rooms are neatly furnished and are sea facing. Warm and friendly staff. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Sea Queen Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Chakratirth Road | phone=+91 6752 222846 | tollfree= | fax= | price=AC rooms for ₹800 (non-AC rooms also available). Massages start from ₹350 for an hours' session, ₹750 for a 14-day session | checkin= | checkout= | content=<!--Which of these businesses are owned by the inn? Only those which are should be mentioned in this listing.-->Between the beach and the hotel is a small restaurant called Pink House. Lovely food and friendly people. Adjacent to the hotel is an Ayurvedic Center providing body massage and other ayurvedic therapies. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vijoya International | alt= | url=https://vijoyainternational.com/ | email=gm@hotelvijoyainternational.com | address=Chakratritha Road, Sea Beach | lat= | long= | directions=on the sea shore in Chakra Tirtha | phone=+91 9831242499 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A beautiful hotel on a clean private beach for which tent facilities are available. Pickup and drop facilities are available from the station and you will be welcomed with flowers and a welcome drink. Rooms are neatly furnished and are sea-facing. The restaurant is good and will customise your menu for any special requirement (for a kid, for example). Try the fish tikka. }} * {{sleep | name=Krishna Resorts | alt= | url= | email=harishvchawda@yahoo.co.in | address=Chakratirth Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 6752 220448 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹450 for non-a/c room, ₹650 for a/c room; 4-bed rooms and 3-bed rooms also available | checkin= | checkout= | content= TV and hot water facility. Eco-friendly pure vegetarian garden restaurant attached. }} * {{sleep | name=Krushna Mandir | alt= | url=http://bmbhuyan.googlepages.com | email=bmbhuyan@gmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Near Arabinda School, Swargadwar | phone=+91-6752-654800, +91 90401-47447, +91 98610-10600 | tollfree= | fax=+91-6752-231895 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-06 | content=25 furnished rooms with kitchen facilities only for holiday homes, authorised Indian Rail travel agent on-site. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hotel Roopam | alt= | url=https://hotel-roopam.business.site/ | email= | address=New Marine Drive Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 6752 230650, +91 6752 231222 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600-1000 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Mayfair Puri | alt= | url=https://www.mayfairhotels.com/mayfair-puri/ | email= | address=Chakra Tirtha Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 674 261 6060 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹5,000-7,500 | content=Beach resort with spa services. This hotel has a private beach with couple of lifeguards roaming around. Elegantly furnished rooms with tasty cuisine served at the restaurants. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Pushpa | alt= | url=http://www.hotelberries.com/home.php | email=berrrieshotels@gmail.com | address=Gopal Ballav Road, Sea Beach | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9556609676, +91 8599808415 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1100 for double non-AC, ₹1690 for double AC rooms | content=Rooms and other facilities, described as modern and luxurious. You can also book online from their website. }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Puri Railway Station | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 6752 222-063 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-06-03 | content=You have to show your ticket. }} * {{sleep | name=Shree Vishnu Darshan Holiday Home | alt= | url= | email= | address=Marchikote Chowk, Grand Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Proceed from Railway station to Badadanda | phone= +91 6752-252155 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1200 per night | content=Luxury hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Toshali Sands Resort and Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.toshalisands.com | email= | address=Toshali Ethnic Resort in Puri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹3200 for a big deluxe cottage | checkin= | checkout= | content=Approved by the Department of Tourism, describes its own staff as warm and friendly. Spread across acres. The resort has Russian language interpreter. }} * {{sleep | name=Victoria Club | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel New sea Hawk | alt= | url=http://hotelnewseahawk.com/ | email=hotelnewseahawk@yahoo.co.in | address= Marine drive road | lat= | long= | directions=close to Swargadwar beach | phone=+91-6752231500 or +91-8895295238 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-06 | content=Most of the rooms sea facing. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Pulin Puri | alt= | url=http://www.hotelpulinpuri.com/ | email=hotelpulinpuri@yahoo.com | address=Marine drive road | lat= | long= | directions=near Swargadwar beach | phone= +91-6752220700 or +91-7653018543 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-06 | content=Most of the rooms facing the sea. }} * {{sleep | name=Sterling Resort | alt= | url=https://www.sterlingholidays.com/resorts-hotels/puri | email= | address= | lat=19.7835588 | long=85.7816571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1860 419 2727 (domestic) | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=Puri Sterling Resort 1.jpg|thumb|Interiors of Sterling Resort Puri | lastedit=2018-09-17 | content=The resort is located away from the crowded places of Puri and has its own beach. There is a swimming pool, gym, spa, restaurant and conference hall. It also provides facilities for destination weddings. The resort organizes curated tours to the heritage village of Raghurajpur and also to Chilka Lake. }} * {{sleep | name=Puri Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.purihotel.in/ | email=purihotel@purihotel.in | address= | lat=19.7950147 | long=85.8235211 | directions= | phone=+91 6752 222114 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹880 for a big 4-bed room with balcony | lastedit=2018-09-17 | content=You get a full sea view straight out of the balcony from most of the rooms. }} ==Stay safe== In cheap hotels or guest houses on Swargadwar or New Puri, try to take care of your own belongings. Do not try to go to the beach after 8PM. If you get seriously ill in Puri it is better to go on to [[Bhubaneswar]] to the Kalinga Hospital as the hospitals in Puri are very, very basic and not too clean. The hotel should be able to get a local doctor for you if you need one. There are mouthwatering food stalls on the beach selling fish, mutton, chicken kebabs, chops and cutlets. Do not try these, unless you want to experience the medical system of Puri. Even weather-beaten, battle-hardened, super-immune Indian stomachs can not tolerate these tasty but unhygienic attacks on your digestive system. Eat out of hotels, is perfectly fine. But do not try the seashore roadside food stalls. Stay safe from pāṇḍās in any temple. They will extract money from your pocket ruthlessly in the name of God. They are very influential and nothing can be done with the help of law. Avoid entering the innermost sanctum of any living temple (even if you are Hindu/Indian). They will ask you to offer puja or pay respect to innumerous Gods here and there of the same temple very politely/affectionately but will demand money in the name of each God separately. No use arguing with them. If you are a bit religious/curious then carry enough change so that you can donate ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, ₹10 to get rid of them without any commotion. Stay away from monkeys. Don't lure them with food and other stuff. ==Nearby== * {{listing | type=around | name=Beleswar Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.831879 | long=85.942826 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4882203 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=A secluded Shiva temple, obscured by a forest, with a beautiful and very calm beach nearby. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Raghurajpur | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.885464 | long=85.826539 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3635717 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=Famous for Patta Chitra (term for traditional, cloth-based scroll painting) as well as the location of several interesting temples. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Sakhigopal Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.945369 | long=85.820467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5451747 | content= }} ==Go next== Puri, being a major tourist spot, is well connected with the rest of the country by train. In case of flight connectivity, one has to go to Bhubaneswar to get onto one. From the main bus stand in Puri, you can get buses to [[Bhubaneswar]] and [[Cuttack]] which are less than 60-70 km away. [[Bhubaneswar]], which is a major hub, further increases connectivity. *The temple of [[Konark]] is nearby and definitely a must-visit. *Satapada on [[Chilika Lake]] is nearby and is a great place for sighting dolphins. {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Odisha}} {{geo|19.8|85.816666666667}} g9nivj97fumrdtnf00btdj83mtr3sjv 5091020 5091018 2025-07-10T19:10:14Z Ibaman 195012 Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/Yugantaran|Yugantaran]] ([[User talk:Yugantaran|talk]]) to last version by [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] 5088781 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|PuriH.jpg}} [[File:Shri Jagannatha Temple.jpg|right|thumb|Jagannath Temple, Puri]] [[File:Puri sea beach in Puri city 09.jpg|thumb|Puri Beach]] '''Puri''' (ପୁରୀ ''Purī''), also known as '''Jagannath Puri''' (the Abode of Lord Jagannath) or '''Purushottama Puri''', is a seaside pilgrimage town in the [[India|Indian]] state of [[Odisha]]. It is a major tourist destination with the famous temple of Lord Jagannath (means Lord of the World) and a very long beach offering beautiful and pleasant sights. There are many hotels; most overseas tourists stay near the beach. ==Understand== Puri ([[Odia phrasebook|poo-rih]]) literally means "city" in Sanskrit. It appeals to both pilgrims and vacationers as it blends religion with fun. Puri is one of the Char Dham (Four Abodes) sites that are considered sacred to the Hindus, and the Jagannath Temple is an example of the Kalinga architecture. The {{km|9}} long sea beach is another major attraction of the city with its fantastic sea face view and golden sand; the water is a bit rough (which is good if you like to surf). ==Talk== Like the rest of Odisha, most people in Puri speak [[Odia]]. Due to the presence of people from various parts of India, there would not be a language problem for people who speak any other major Indian languages. [[Hindi]] and [[Bengali]] are also widely understood. ==Get in== ===By plane=== The nearest airport is in [[Bhubaneswar]], ({{km|60}}) from Puri. Then take a train or bus to reach your destination. ===By train=== Puri is well-connected by railways. Trains are available from [[Howrah]], [[New Delhi]], [[Ahmedabad]], [[Bhubaneswar]] etc. It is also a major railhead on the East Coast Railway, bifurcated from Khurda Road. {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Puri railway station|city=india|ecor}}|wikidata=Q7261236}} is in the heart of the town and near to most hotels. While arriving by train, go to the Odisha State Tourist counter at the station for advice; they are usually very helpful and speak English. The MCO Booth is also quite helpful. ===By bus=== Puri is approximately 1½ hours or 60 km from Bhubaneswar and the journey costs about ₹130. ==Get around== {{mapframe|19.81|85.82|zoom=13|width=600|height=370}} You can use cycle rickshaws, auto-rickshaws or electric rickshaws but agree on a price before you set off. Just to avoid a horrible experience in the beginning confirm twice on the price, as they frequently try to charge you more than you agreed on. There are places on C.T. Road where you can hire a Royal Enfield motorbike, good if you want to drive along the coast to Konark (Sun Temple). A cycle rickshaw is in the range of ₹520. ==See and do== [[File:Camel ride along the beach.jpg|thumb|Camel ride along the Puri Beach]] * {{see | name=Puri Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.7962 | long=85.8267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7261228 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=The 8-km long beach of Puri, and is ideal for surfing and cool for a dip. The beach is covered in golden sand. The waves can also be high and rough during the full moon. Camel and horse rides are available. Seating is available for 45 minutes at cost. Please do not litter the beach to keep its magnificent view intact. You have to be careful about swimming off the Chakra Tirtha Rd end of the beach because there is a canal that carries raw sewage into the ocean. }} * {{see | name=Puri–Konark Marine Drive | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.8283 | long=85.8684 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This road is in superb condition. It is peppered with deserted beaches and many rivers flow into the sea in places visible, if not accessible, from the road. Some beaches are said to have quicksand. Along the way, there is a temple Ramchandi, which is a popular picnic spot amongst the locals, as non-vegetarian food is allowed in the temple. }} * {{see | name=Swargadwar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.79309 | long=85.81732 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q22811445 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=Literally, "the gateway to heaven", Swargadwar is the site of the cremation of almost all famous Odia people. There are good hotels and restaurants near the crematorium. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Gundicha temple.jpg|thumb|Gundicha Temple]] [[File:Three Chariots in front of the Jagannath Temple after Bahuda Yatra in 2022.jpg|thumb|Jagannath Temple during 2022 Ratha Yatra]] * {{see | name=Gundicha Temple | alt=ଗୁଣ୍ଡିଚା ମନ୍ଦିର ''Guṇḍicā Mandira'' | url=http://www.jagannath.nic.in/ | email= | address= | lat=19.816897 | long=85.839867 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q2093288 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=The destination of the Ratha Yatra from Jagannath Temple. It is occupied by Lord Jagannath and his siblings for seven days every year. It is in the centre of a beautiful garden, surrounded by compound walls on all sides. Tourists don't have to pay any fee to enter the temple, it's considered that Lord Jagannath ensures all of his devotees equally. }} * {{see | name=Jagannath Temple | alt=ଜଗନ୍ନାଥ ମନ୍ଦିର ''Jagannātha Mandira'' | url=https://www.shreejagannatha.in/ | email= | address= | lat=19.804722 | long=85.818333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1678260 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=One of the Char Dham temples, i.e. most sacred pilgrimage places of Hindus. Constructed in the 11th century is the starting point of the world-famous Ratha Yatra, held in July. Shoes, cameras, mobile phones and leather products are prohibited within the temple complex, you have to submit them at nearby shoe stands. The temple is open only for "orthodox" Hindus and they must dress conservatively. Beware of crowds around the main temple. Do lean against the Shani temple, watch the summit of the temple and savour the temple food or bhog. The temple complex is huge and has some very interesting stories associated, priests or pāṇḍās are generally the ones who conduct the non-Odia people around and generally mention all these stories although they can demand exorbitant amounts; bring it down to something reasonable. It is possible to go into the sanctum sanctorum and touch the deities in the main temple for a fee. }} * {{see | name=Lokanatha Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.803493 | long=85.801156 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6504454 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=Dedicated to Lord Shiva, is said to be the place where Lord Shiva hid himself from Shani, under a pond. The Shivalinga here is partially submerged and the pond is teeming with fish. Priests here tend to be very strict so maintain etiquette. Shoes, cameras, mobile phones and bags are prohibited within the temple complex, you have to submit them at a nearby stand. }} ===Events=== '''Ratha Yatra''' (literally "chariot journey") is the main festival in Puri and is celebrated in June-July every year. On the first day, Jagannath and his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra are transported in chariots (''rathas'') from Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple. They remain in chariots on the first day and enter Gundicha Temple on the second day. These deities return to Jagannath Temple after seven days, known as "Bahuda Yatra". The area between Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple remains crowded during the Ratha Yatra, therefore be prepared during these times. ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Puri Beach Market | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.79287 | long=85.81848 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=5&ndash;10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content= }} ==Eat== [[File:Chena podo.JPG|thumb|''Chena podo'' or baked cottage cheese at Puri]] * {{eat | name=Chung Wah | alt=At Hotel Lee Garden | url= | email= | address=VIP Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Netaji Subhash Chowk | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-01-27 | content=Good Chinese food. }} * {{eat | name=Dada Boudir Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Swargadwar | lat=19.79471 | long=85.81839 | directions=opposite Bharat Sevashram Sangha Library | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=Puri branch of Kolkata's popular Dada Boudir Restaurant. Authentic Bengali food. }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=Swargadwar | lat=19.79370 | long=85.81834 | directions=in front of Handloom Gardens | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-09-17 | content=There are several sweet shops under the name "Ganguram Sweets", among which the one in front of Handloom Gardens is the oldest. It has no branches. }} * {{eat |name=Kakatua |alt= |comment= |address= |directions= |phone= |fax= |email= |url= |hours= |price= |lat= |long= |description=near the Iskcon temple in Swargadwara there is a good sweet shop/restaurant with a cockatoo outside and the resto is named after it.}} * {{eat |name=Krishna Resorts |alt= |comment= |address= |directions= |phone= |fax= |email= |url= |hours= |price= |lat= |long= |description=Pure vegetarian restaurant with Gujarati and marwari thali on Chakratirth road.}} * {{eat | name=Original Nrusingha Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.79357 | long=85.81824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-09-17 | content=There are several sweet shops under the name "Nrusingha Sweets" or "Nursingha Sweets", among which the Original Nrusingha Sweets is the oldest. It has four branches. }} * {{eat |name=Shyama |alt= |comment= |address= |directions= |phone= |fax= |email= |url= |hours= |price= |lat= |long= |description=Pure vegetarian restaurant opposite the Jagannath temple on the Grand Road above the shops on the corner. There are many restaurants in Swargadwara, New Puri and CT. Road.}} * {{eat | name=Wild Grass | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Netaji Subhas Chowk | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-01-27 | content=Theme restaurant serving local delicacies. }} ==Sleep== {{cautionbox|To avoid the unsavoury, corrupt, and thoroughly untrustworthy booking services based in [[Kolkata]], it is best to get a place to stay on arrival '''without''' advance reservation. If you are booking a room on spot at Puri, please ask for a sea-facing room. A sea-facing non-AC room is much better than an AC non-sea-facing room.}} Puri is a very popular holiday resort for people from all over India but they tend to stay in the hotels nearer to Swargadwar (rather than C.T. Road). These hotels are often affordable and offer quality services at very reasonable rates. * {{sleep | name=Asian Inn Beach Resort | alt= | url= | email= | address=New Marine Drive Road, Swargadwar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-09-17 | content=This 3-storey resort has modern facilities including elevators, with a good view of the Bay of Bengal. There's an air-conditioned restaurant and a conference room. There is also a doctor on call, laundry, locker and secretarial services. }} *{{sleep | name=Balananda Tirthasram & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sea Beach Rd | lat= | long= | directions=After meteorological office, opposite sea beach | phone=+91 6752228727 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹325-425 per room, ₹24 per vegetarian meal (as of 2012) | checkin=Morning | checkout=24 hours | content=Family hotel with sea views from each balcony. You can see the sea from your room balcony. You have to order and collect your coupon each morning before 10 for lunch starting at 12:30PM. Same for dinner and breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Deep Resorts | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹750-1400 | checkin=7:30AM | checkout=7AM | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Gochikar House | url= | email= | address=New Marine Drive Road, Swargodwar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500-12000 | checkin= | checkout=7AM | content=Sea view rooms, travel desk. }} * {{sleep | name=Hans Coco Palms Resort | alt= | url=http://www.hanshotels.com/coco-palms-hotel-puri/hotel-info.html | email=info@hanshotels.com | address=Baliapanda New Marine Drive Road, Swargdwar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4809 1108 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Quiet location and a swimming pool. The hotel has a private beach, although there are only two canopies for guests. There are no lifeguards (nulia), but you can hire one if you wish. Breakfast (especially the Hans Coco Palms Special) is a good value and wholesome. Try the tomato shorba and 'thaali' for lunch/dinner. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Diamond Palace | url=http://www.hoteldiamondpalacepuri.com | email=hoteldiamond@hoteldiamondpalacepuri.com | address=New Marine Drive Road, Gourbad Sahi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 6752 230300 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹600-₹000 | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Pushpasree | alt= | url=http://www.sensonmedia.net/hotelpushpasree.htm | email=hotelpushpasree@gmail.com | address=New Marine Drive Road, Gourbad Sahi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 6752 254157 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600-800 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Sairam | alt= | url= | email= | address=CT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Marine Drive Road near Sansangha Thakurbadi, 10 m from Golden Beach | phone= | tollfree= | checkin=8AM | checkout=7:30AM | price=₹500-1000 | lastedit=2021-01-24 | content=Rooms are neatly furnished and are sea facing. Warm and friendly staff. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Sea Queen Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Chakratirth Road | phone=+91 6752 222846 | tollfree= | fax= | price=AC rooms for ₹800 (non-AC rooms also available). Massages start from ₹350 for an hours' session, ₹750 for a 14-day session | checkin= | checkout= | content=<!--Which of these businesses are owned by the inn? Only those which are should be mentioned in this listing.-->Between the beach and the hotel is a small restaurant called Pink House. Lovely food and friendly people. Adjacent to the hotel is an Ayurvedic Center providing body massage and other ayurvedic therapies. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vijoya International | alt= | url=https://vijoyainternational.com/ | email=gm@hotelvijoyainternational.com | address=Chakratritha Road, Sea Beach | lat= | long= | directions=on the sea shore in Chakra Tirtha | phone=+91 9831242499 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A beautiful hotel on a clean private beach for which tent facilities are available. Pickup and drop facilities are available from the station and you will be welcomed with flowers and a welcome drink. Rooms are neatly furnished and are sea-facing. The restaurant is good and will customise your menu for any special requirement (for a kid, for example). Try the fish tikka. }} * {{sleep | name=Krishna Resorts | alt= | url= | email=harishvchawda@yahoo.co.in | address=Chakratirth Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 6752 220448 | tollfree= | fax= | price=₹450 for non-a/c room, ₹650 for a/c room; 4-bed rooms and 3-bed rooms also available | checkin= | checkout= | content= TV and hot water facility. Eco-friendly pure vegetarian garden restaurant attached. }} * {{sleep | name=Krushna Mandir | alt= | url=http://bmbhuyan.googlepages.com | email=bmbhuyan@gmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Near Arabinda School, Swargadwar | phone=+91-6752-654800, +91 90401-47447, +91 98610-10600 | tollfree= | fax=+91-6752-231895 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-06 | content=25 furnished rooms with kitchen facilities only for holiday homes, authorised Indian Rail travel agent on-site. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hotel Roopam | alt= | url=https://hotel-roopam.business.site/ | email= | address=New Marine Drive Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 6752 230650, +91 6752 231222 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600-1000 | content= }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Mayfair Puri | alt= | url=https://www.mayfairhotels.com/mayfair-puri/ | email= | address=Chakra Tirtha Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 674 261 6060 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹5,000-7,500 | content=Beach resort with spa services. This hotel has a private beach with couple of lifeguards roaming around. Elegantly furnished rooms with tasty cuisine served at the restaurants. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Pushpa | alt= | url=http://www.hotelberries.com/home.php | email=berrrieshotels@gmail.com | address=Gopal Ballav Road, Sea Beach | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 9556609676, +91 8599808415 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1100 for double non-AC, ₹1690 for double AC rooms | content=Rooms and other facilities, described as modern and luxurious. You can also book online from their website. }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Puri Railway Station | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 6752 222-063 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-06-03 | content=You have to show your ticket. }} * {{sleep | name=Shree Vishnu Darshan Holiday Home | alt= | url= | email= | address=Marchikote Chowk, Grand Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Proceed from Railway station to Badadanda | phone= +91 6752-252155 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1200 per night | content=Luxury hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Toshali Sands Resort and Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.toshalisands.com | email= | address=Toshali Ethnic Resort in Puri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹3200 for a big deluxe cottage | checkin= | checkout= | content=Approved by the Department of Tourism, describes its own staff as warm and friendly. Spread across acres. The resort has Russian language interpreter. }} * {{sleep | name=Victoria Club | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel New sea Hawk | alt= | url=http://hotelnewseahawk.com/ | email=hotelnewseahawk@yahoo.co.in | address= Marine drive road | lat= | long= | directions=close to Swargadwar beach | phone=+91-6752231500 or +91-8895295238 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-06 | content=Most of the rooms sea facing. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Pulin Puri | alt= | url=http://www.hotelpulinpuri.com/ | email=hotelpulinpuri@yahoo.com | address=Marine drive road | lat= | long= | directions=near Swargadwar beach | phone= +91-6752220700 or +91-7653018543 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-06 | content=Most of the rooms facing the sea. }} * {{sleep | name=Sterling Resort | alt= | url=https://www.sterlingholidays.com/resorts-hotels/puri | email= | address= | lat=19.7835588 | long=85.7816571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree=1860 419 2727 (domestic) | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=Puri Sterling Resort 1.jpg|thumb|Interiors of Sterling Resort Puri | lastedit=2018-09-17 | content=The resort is located away from the crowded places of Puri and has its own beach. There is a swimming pool, gym, spa, restaurant and conference hall. It also provides facilities for destination weddings. The resort organizes curated tours to the heritage village of Raghurajpur and also to Chilka Lake. }} * {{sleep | name=Puri Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.purihotel.in/ | email=purihotel@purihotel.in | address= | lat=19.7950147 | long=85.8235211 | directions= | phone=+91 6752 222114 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹880 for a big 4-bed room with balcony | lastedit=2018-09-17 | content=You get a full sea view straight out of the balcony from most of the rooms. }} ==Stay safe== In cheap hotels or guest houses on Swargadwar or New Puri, try to take care of your own belongings. Do not try to go to the beach after 8PM. If you get seriously ill in Puri it is better to go on to [[Bhubaneswar]] to the Kalinga Hospital as the hospitals in Puri are very, very basic and not too clean. The hotel should be able to get a local doctor for you if you need one. There are mouthwatering food stalls on the beach selling fish, mutton, chicken kebabs, chops and cutlets. Do not try these, unless you want to experience the medical system of Puri. Even weather-beaten, battle-hardened, super-immune Indian stomachs can not tolerate these tasty but unhygienic attacks on your digestive system. Eat out of hotels, is perfectly fine. But do not try the seashore roadside food stalls. Stay safe from pāṇḍās in any temple. They will extract money from your pocket ruthlessly in the name of God. They are very influential and nothing can be done with the help of law. Avoid entering the innermost sanctum of any living temple (even if you are Hindu/Indian). They will ask you to offer puja or pay respect to innumerous Gods here and there of the same temple very politely/affectionately but will demand money in the name of each God separately. No use arguing with them. If you are a bit religious/curious then carry enough change so that you can donate ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, ₹10 to get rid of them without any commotion. Stay away from monkeys. Don't lure them with food and other stuff. ==Nearby== * {{listing | type=around | name=Beleswar Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.831879 | long=85.942826 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4882203 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=A secluded Shiva temple, obscured by a forest, with a beautiful and very calm beach nearby. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Raghurajpur | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.885464 | long=85.826539 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3635717 | lastedit=2023-09-02 | content=Famous for Patta Chitra (term for traditional, cloth-based scroll painting) as well as the location of several interesting temples. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Sakhigopal Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.945369 | long=85.820467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5451747 | content= }} ==Go next== Puri, being a major tourist spot, is well connected with the rest of the country by train. In case of flight connectivity, one has to go to Bhubaneswar to get onto one. From the main bus stand in Puri, you can get buses to [[Bhubaneswar]] and [[Cuttack]] which are less than 60-70 km away. [[Bhubaneswar]], which is a major hub, further increases connectivity. *The temple of [[Konark]] is nearby and definitely a must-visit. *Satapada on [[Chilika Lake]] is nearby and is a great place for sighting dolphins. {{usablecity}} {{IsPartOf|Coastal Odisha}} {{geo|19.8|85.816666666667}} fo95az8i6xyp1ylvvh2djz6g89hnr4o 0 28917 5091183 4976794 2025-07-11T04:41:59Z 廣九直通車 1666899 5091183 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Quanzhou banner.jpg|unesco=yes}} '''Quanzhou''' (泉州; ''Choân-chiu'' in Minnan, ''Quánzhōu'' in Mandarin) is a coastal city in [[Fujian]] Province north of [[Xiamen]] and south of [[Fuzhou]]. Older romanisations, no longer in use, include Ch'üan-chou, Chuanchow and Chinchew. [[Image:ChinaFujianQuanzhou.png|thumb|200px|Position in Fujian province]] [[Marco Polo]] sailed home from here around 1292; he called the city by its Arabic and Persian name, '''Zaiton''', and described it as the world's busiest port and stunningly rich. A few decades later, [[Ibn Battuta]] both arrived in and departed from China via Quanzhou. Since then the city has come down in the world somewhat, but is still a major port and still quite prosperous. For travellers, much of the history is still quite visible; the town is positively overrun with interesting old buildings. Many readers from Western countries may never have heard of the city, but they have been somewhat affected by it nonetheless. The English word "satin" comes from "Zaiton", the port from which that fabric first reached the [[Middle East]] and thence [[Europe]]. The tea that American colonists threw overboard to protest British taxes at the [[Boston Tea Party]] was shipped from Quanzhou and grown in nearby [[Anxi]]. ==Districts== {{Mapframe|24.9|118.6|zoom=11}} Quanzhou urban area consists of four districts: * Fengze District (丰泽区; Fēng​zé​qū​) * Licheng District (鲤城区; Lǐ​chéng​qū​) * Luojiang District (洛江区; Luò​jiāng​qū​) * Quangang District (泉港区; Quán​gǎng​qū) Other communities in Quanzhou Prefecture are covered in separate articles: [[Anxi]], [[Dehua]], [[Hui'an]], [[Jinjiang]], Jinmen, Nan'an, [[Shishi]], and Yongchun. Jinjiang is the most important suburb; on the map it is the area south of the river and as of the 2010 census its population was just under two million. Nearby [[Xiamen]] was administered as a district of Quanzhou for centuries, but it grew very rapidly due to foreign trade after it became a [[List of Chinese provinces and regions#Treaty ports and concessions|treaty port]] in the 1840s. Today it is a separate city, at least as important as Quanzhou. ==Understand== About a millenium ago, the city was the main eastern terminus of the [[Maritime Silk Road]] and home to a large (over 100,000 by some estimates) international community, mostly Arabs but also including Persians, Indians and others. At one time, the city had seven mosques; the only one surviving today is the Great Mosque, built in 1009 CE. Quanzhou was one of the main bases for the great Chinese treasure ships that routinely traded in [[Southeast Asia]] and [[India]] and sometimes reached at least as far as [[Persia]] and [[Aden]]. When Vasco da Gama &mdash; sailing the [[Cape Route]] to become the first European to reach India by sea &mdash; reached [[East Africa]] in 1498, he found Chinese trade goods such as blue & white pottery already in the market. The Chinese ships were far larger, longer range, and more advanced technically than European vessels of the period. See [[Voyages of Zheng He]] for some of the details. [[File:Sunwu Creek Bixi - DSCF8627.JPG|thumb|The area along Sunwu Creek, south of downtown, has experienced an urban renewal. The ''bixi'' turtle carries an inscription commemorating flood control work on the creek]] There is a Maritime Museum in Quanzhou with many relics of this period. [[On the trail of Marco Polo|Marco Polo]] sailed home from Quanzhou about 1292. He described it as the world's busiest port, with [[Alexandria]] a distant second. At about that time, Kublai Khan's fleet for the invasion of [[Japan]] sailed from Quanzhou. It was wiped out by a storm, the kami kaze or "spirit wind". This is the origin of the name for kamikaze (suicide) pilots during the Second World War; it was hoped they would save Japan in a similar way. In the 1420s, there was a shift in power in Beijing; the Confucian scholars won out over the eunuchs, and many of the admirals and captains were eunuchs. The emperor cut off all foreign expeditions, destroyed the records of previous voyages, and let the great ships rot. After this, Quanzhou declined considerably. Also, over the centuries the harbour became partly clogged with silt. Today, Quanzhou is less well-known than the provincial capital [[Fuzhou]] or booming Special Economic Zone [[Xiamen]], and certainly gets fewer tourists than either. However, it has more historic buildings than either, some interesting modern architecture, and some good shopping. As the historical centre of the South Fujian region, Quanzhou is also the cradle of several traditional art forms, including the Minnan opera genres of Gaojia opera and Liyuan opera, as well as Minnan-style string puppetry. Like most Chinese cities, Quanzhou has some of the standard 8-storey concrete apartment blocks. However, there are far fewer of those than elsewhere and whole districts are much prettier. The city government has regulations that require new buildings in some areas to follow certain architectural conventions. Downtown, there are many modern 4- to 6-floor buildings with the traditional Chinese tile roofs with points on the corners. Near the old mosque there are new buildings with Islamic themes, such as arched windows, in the architecture. The rebuilding of the Zhongshan Road shopping area got a UNESCO award for heritage preservation, and Quanzhou got an international award in a contest for most livable cities in 2003; neighboring Xiamen had won the previous year. In 2021, 16 sites in and around the city were listed by UNESCO as a [[world heritage site]] named "Quanzhou: Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan China". ==Talk== The local language is '''[[Minnan phrasebook|Minnan]]''', which is also spoken in neighbouring Xiamen, as well as across the sea in [[Taiwan]], where it is known as Taiwanese. The dialect in Quanzhou differs slightly from the dialect in Xiamen and Taiwan, but nevertheless, they are similar enough for mutual comprehension. Most locals are bilingual in [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]] and Minnan, so learning Minnan is not necessary to communicate, though attempts to do so will most certainly impress the locals. As with elsewhere in China, English is not widely spoken, though staff at more luxurious hotels will usually have at least a basic command of English. ==Get in== ===By plane=== *{{listing|type=go | name=Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport | alt=泉州晋江国际机场 {{IATA|JJN}} | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.798889 | long=118.589444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2232118| wikipedia=Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport | content= }} Quanzhou, or rather [[Jinjiang]] across the river, has an airport with flights to various mainland cities, as well as some international flights to [[Hong Kong]] and other Asian cities. Nearby [[Xiamen]] has a more important airport with good domestic connections and quite a few international flights, including several long-haul ones. [[Fuzhou]]'s airport is also reasonably close. ===By train=== [[File:Quanzhou Railway Station Platform 20170727.jpg|thumb|Quanzhou Railway Station Platform]] *{{listing|type=go | name=Quanzhou Station | alt=泉州站 | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.976667 | long=118.563056 | directions=12 km northwest of the city, off Hwy S307 | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7269119| wikipedia=Quanzhou railway station | image=Quanzhou Railway Station front face 02.jpg | content= }} The station is served by frequent high-speed trains running on Fujian's coastal high-speed railway between Fuzhou and Xiamen. The line continues north beyond Fuzhou to [[Wenzhou]], [[Hangzhou]], and [[Shanghai]], and south beyond Xiamen to [[Shantou]] and [[Shenzhen]]. A few trains also go to inland destinations, such as [[Nanchang]] in neighbouring [[Jiangxi]] province, [[Wuhan]], and points beyond. See [[High-speed rail in China]] for details. There is a bus station in the square outside of the train station, with several local bus routes connecting the station with the city, and suburban routes coming from places such as [[Chongwu]]. Older maps and guidebooks may show the old Quanzhou Railway Station in the northeastern outskirts of the city, off Chenghua South Rd (Hwy G324). This station is closed. ===By bus=== There are frequent buses from [[Xiamen]] (¥27-35, 1½ hours) and [[Fuzhou]] (¥46-65, 2½ hours). There are also direct overnight buses from more distant places such as [[Hong Kong]], [[Shenzhen]] and [[Zhuhai]], in the ¥300 range. There are two main bus stations, a fairly large one in a new building toward the east of town and one that is much more central and looks more run down. The ''latter'' is the "new bus station". A small bus station next to the Overseas Chinese Hotel has buses to Fuzhou and Shenzhen. ===By boat=== There is a daily ferry service from Taiwan-controlled [[Kinmen]] (Quemoy) Island to the port of Shijing (石井), some 50&nbsp;km south of downtown Quanzhou, with the journey taking about 1 hour. (¥150, or NT$750). The ferries to [[Xiamen]] run much more frequently, with multiple departures between 09:00 and 17:30 every day. ==Get around== Taxis start at ¥8 and you can go almost anywhere in town for under ¥20. Be warned about local traffic! Traffic anywhere in China often horrifies visitors (see [[Driving in China]]), but Quanzhou is worse than most places. On some travel blogs, even Chinese complain about Quanzhou traffic. ==See== ===Religious structures=== [[File:2001年泉州开元寺大雄宝殿 - panoramio.jpg|thumb|On the grounds of Kaiyuan Temple]] The town has an assortment of religious buildings, some quite old. It has been called a museum of world religions. There are Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian temples, as anywhere in China, plus Christian churches and one mosque. There are also Hindu and Zoroastrian temples. Neighboring Jinjiang has the world's only surviving [[Jinjiang#See|Manichean temple]]. * {{see | name=Kaiyuan Temple | alt=开元寺 | url= | email= | address=Xi Jie near Xinhuan Bei Lu, northwest of downtown | lat=24.9168 | long=118.581 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=¥10 | wikipedia=Kaiyuan Temple (Quanzhou) | image=Kaiyuan Temple - main courtyard - bixi - DSCF8577.JPG | wikidata=Q1721819 | content=The largest and most famous Buddhist temple complex in the area. The well-landscaped grounds house two famous tall pagodas, several temple buildings, an ancient stone turtle, and a variety of religious art. The Xi Jie (West Lane) outside of the temple is a busy shopping street, with all kind of shops selling souvenirs, joss paper and other Buddhist items, snacks, and books. The Ancient Ships pavilion of the Maritime Museum (whose main building is elsewhere in town; see a separate listing below) is located on the grounds of the temple, in one of its ancillary buildings. }} * {{see | name=Qingjing Mosque | alt=清净寺 | url= | email= | address=Tumen Street | lat=24.9056 | long=118.5869 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=¥3 | wikidata=Q2121628| wikipedia=Qingjing Mosque | image=清净寺4.jpg | content=The only surviving mosque of the many that used to exist. It is over 1,000 years old, and was rebuilt in 2009 so the dome is now restored after a 200-year absence. Well worth a visit. }} [[File:Quanzhou Tonghuai Guanyue Miao 2005-08-11.jpg|thumb|The Guan-Yue Temple on Tumen Jie]] * {{listing | type=see | name=Guan-Yue Temple | alt=Tonghuai Temple of Guan Yu and Yue Fei (通淮关岳庙) | url= | email= | address=Tumen Jie 196 (鲤城区涂门街196号) | lat=24.904722 | long=118.588333 | directions=just east of the mosque | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | wikipedia=Martial temple | lastedit=2020-04-07 | content=A large and impressive Taoist temple. Guan Yu and Yue Fei were generals, and this is a '''warrior temple''', one of many dedicated to them in various parts of China. Note the huge (over 2 stories tall, with a big chimney) ritual furnace for burning joss paper. The furnace becomes very busy around the holidays such Yuanxiao, when people line up to burn their offerings. }} * {{see | name=Confucian Temple | alt=孔庙 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=A couple of blocks west of the Taoist Temple, just off Tumen Street | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is the main Confucian temple in town. }} * {{see | name=Chongfu Temple | url= | email= | address=Chongfu Road | lat= | long= | directions=northeast of the city center, near where Dong Road turns into Donghu Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A beautiful if small active Buddhist Temple. }} * {{see | name=Old Saint | alt=崇福寺 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=on the peak of Qingyuanshan just outside town | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An enormous statue of Lao Tse, the founder of Taoism, which attracts people from all over China. }} [[File:Quanzhou - Tianhou Gong - DSCF8659.JPG|thumb|An ancient stone turtle (''bixi'') in the Tianhou Temple]] * {{see | name=Tian Hou Gong | alt=天后宫 | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.898448 | long=118.584367 | directions=at Tianhou Lu (Tiangou St) and Zhongshan Nan Lu (Zhongshan South St), at the southern edge of downtown | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free | image=Quanzhou - Tian Hou Gong - bixi - DSCF8514.JPG | wikidata=Q11143136 | lastedit=2015-10-29 | content=Dedicated to Tian Hou ("Heavenly Empress"), also known as Mazu, a sea Goddess worshipped by many sailors and fishermen. Note the ancient ''bixi'' turtles with an illegible stele on the temple's grounds, and a pond with fish and turtles in one of the courtyards in the back of the facility. The most important Mazu temple on Earth is on Meizhou Island, in the next city north on the Fujian coast, [[Putian]]. }} * {{see | name=Six Victories' Tower | alt=六胜塔 | url= | email= | address=Shishi City | lat=24.810526 | long=118.721335 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Six Victories Tower is the study of architecture and art precious kind of Song and Yuan dynasties. The tower is of granite attic type structure, 36.6 m high, around the end of about 47 m, octagonal five layer, the carved Seiko, magnificent, with something comparable to Quanzhou tower. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Lishan Tombs | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near what was the east gate of the old walled city | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=The first Islamic missionaries to China came to Quanzhou by ship. Tradition has it that Muhhamad himself sent four of his personal disciples and they arrived in the late 7th century. These are their tombs, a place of pilgrimage for some Muslims. }} ===Museums=== [[File:Quanzhou Museum - DSCF8199.JPG|thumb|Quanzhou Museum]] * {{see | name=Quanzhou Museum | alt=泉州博物馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.939261 | long=118.581450 | directions=in a park north of the West Lake (Xi Hu) | phone=+86 595 2275-7518 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-17:30 (summer), 09:00-17:00 (other seasons) | price=free | image=Quanzhou Museum - DSCF8196.JPG | content=Don't miss a small "stele forest" behind the museum. }} * {{see | name=Puppet Museum | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=From the mosque, walk west (away from the Taoist temple) along Tumen Street, take the first right, go a short distance and take the first right again (if you reach a park on your right, you have gone too far). The museum is a short way along on your left (if you reach the French restaurant, you have gone too far) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free | content=Quanzhou is famous for puppets and the museum is excellent. They sometimes do shows, which are excellent, but not on a regular schedule. You need to be lucky to catch one, or to have a group of 20 or so people and make arrangements. }} * {{see | name=Fujian-Taiwan Kinship Museum | alt=中国闽台缘博物馆 | url=http://www.mtybwg.org.cn/ | email= | address=212 Beiqing Road East, Fengze District | lat=24.938599 | long=118.585419 | directions=in a park north of the West Lake, just east of Quanzhou Museum | phone=+86 595 2275-1800 | tollfree= | hours=As of March 2024, the museum is closed for renovations. It will re-open by the end of June | price=Free | image=Quanzhou - Fujian-Taiwan Kinship Museum - DSCF8197.JPG | lastedit=2024-03-31 | content= }} * {{see | name=Quanzhou Maritime Museum | alt=泉州外海交通史博物馆 | url=http://www.qzhjg.cn/ | email= | address=425 Donghu Jie (泉州市东湖街425号) | lat=24.91023 | long=118.61135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:30-17:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=Quanzhou Maritime Museum | image=Yang Wengshe 1314.jpg | wikidata=Q17163836 | lastedit=2015-10-29 | content=Excellent museum. Quanzhou was, up to the 15th century, one of China's greatest trading cities and a major base for her powerful fleets. Besides a collection of ship models and nautical artifacts, the museum has a large collection of stone inscription and reliefs - from ancient tombstones and temples - demonstrating Quanzhou's historical connections with India, the Middle East, and Europe, and attesting to the presence of Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and even Manichaeism in the area. Don't miss a collection of stone tombstones and stelae in the back yard. The museum's Ancient Ships Pavilion is on the grounds of Kaiyuan Temple. UNESCO has a [https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000043936 document] about the museum. }} * {{see | name=Islamic Culture Exhibition | directions=on the same grounds with the Martitime Museum, sharing the parking lot }} * {{see | name=Quanzhou Museum of Overseas Chinese History | alt=泉州华侨历史博物馆 | url=http://www.qzhqg.com/ | email=hqg1996@163.com | address=732 Donghu Street, Fengze District (丰泽区东湖街732号) | lat=24.915057 | long=118.602079 | directions=opposite East Lake; take bus no. 10, 17, 22, 25, 28, 37, 44, 203, 604 or K502 | phone=+86 595 22987593 | tollfree= | hours=09:00-17:00, closed on Mondays | price=Free | lastedit=2021-07-27 | content= }} ===Other sights=== [[File:Luoyang Bridge 01 20170727.jpg|thumb|Luoyang Bridge]] *{{see | name=Luoyang Bridge | alt=洛阳桥 | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.9545 | long=118.6762 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Luoyang Bridge | image=HuiAn - Luoyang Bridge - P1240030.JPG | wikidata=Q1877576 | content=A bridge that is considered one of the four ancient bridges of China. Its namesake goes back several centuries, although the railings look remarkably well preserved. But look at the pillars and that may be more indicative of its age. }} * {{see | name=Monument to Koxinga | alt=鄭成功; Zhèng Chénggōng | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An enormous equestrian statue that appears to be guarding the town, up on a hill on the east side of the city. He was a local boy whose family were seafarers, merchants trading with Japan, and pirates. On land, he became a general, resisting the then-new Qing (Manchu) dynasty. His base on [[Xiamen]]'s [[Gulangyu#Koxinga Memorial Museum|Gulangyu]] is one of the tourist sites there. Lots of other Koxinga-related sites and monuments can be found in the nearby [[Kinmen]] Island, controlled by the Republic of China (Taiwan). Koxinga is best known for driving the Dutch out of [[Taiwan]] in the 1660s, the first major wave of Chinese immigration to Taiwan was his soldiers settling down and bringing their families. He is one of the few people seen as a hero by the current governments on both sides of the straits; beating the foreign devils makes you a good guy in everyone's books! }} *{{see | name=The residence of the Cai family | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The ancient residential buildings by Cai Qichang and his son, Cai senior in the Qing Tongzhi years (1862) to Xuantong three years (1911) built. The existing more complete house in all 16, and are arranged in parallel are orderly distribution to approximately 3 hectares (40 acres) of a rectangular block, 200 meters long and 100 meters wide, covering an area of 15300 m². }} ==Do== [[Image:Statue of Lao Tzu in Quanzhou.jpg|thumb|Lao Tse]] * {{do | name=Qingyuan Mountain 清源山 | alt= | url=http://www.qingyuanmount.com/English/index.asp {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Climbing this mountain is a nice way to get away from the city, and some of its heat and noise. The Lao Tse statue is located near the main entrance. Mountain climbing in Qingyuanshan is a different experience from hiking in other places, the paths up the mountain (large hill, really) are clearly marked, and paved in most places, with steps up the steeper parts. There are lots of places to buy drinks or snacks along the way, and temples, pavilions, and even some carnival-style games are there to distract you from your trek, if you like. Nonetheless, its a beautiful, strenuous climb, with dense tree canopies above and cicadas all around, with openings along the way with clear vistas of the city below. There is a lake and a dam near the top. Wear good shoes and clothes you can sweat in. }} *{{do | name=Lantern Festival | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Chinese New Year begins on the first day of the first lunar month; Lantern Festival on the 15th of that month brings the celebration to a close. Lantern Festival is celebrated all over China, but it is a fairly minor event in some places and a rather big deal in others. ''In Quanzhou, it is huge!'' Nearly every merchant downtown puts up at least a few lanterns, and they compete to have the best ones. The area around the Confucian Temple is one center of activity, with hundreds of lanterns and thousands of people out to view them. Another major center is down by the river where there is an enormous fireworks show late in the evening. }} ==Buy== [[File:BLW White Teapot.jpg|thumb|Dehua teapot]] ===Souvenirs=== There is large area of antique and curio shops on the north side of the mosque. They sell mainly to locals. Quality, variety and price are all better than most tourist areas. You do have to [[bargain]] fiercely, though. White pottery from the village of [[Dehua]] outside Quanzhou has been an export item for centuries, known in Europe as "Blanc de Chine". Other ceramics are also made in the area. There are kilns going back a millennium or more. [[File:Tieguanyin2.jpg|thumb|Tieguanyin tea]] ===Tea=== {{seealso|Tea|Chinese cuisine#Tea}} [[Anxi]] outside Quanzhou produces one of China's most famous teas, Tieguanyin Oolong. Guan Yin is a Buddhist Bodhisattva sometimes described as the Goddess of Mercy; "tie" means iron. China's three main types of tea are unfermented green tea, partly fermented oolong and heavily fermented [[Pu'er]] tea. The best known oolong teas are Tieguanyin, Da Hong Bao from [[Wuyi Mountain]] in inland Fujian, and Dongding from [[Taiwan]]. Tieguanyin tea is available in countless shops throughout Quanzhou, in most you can sit and try a variety of grades of tea to decide which you want. Prices for a jin (half kilo) of tea in a typical shop start at about ¥40 and there are some very nice teas under ¥200. However, tea in Chinese culture is priced like wine in the West; a variety that is top quality, rare, or just well-marketed can fetch an amazingly high price. It is not uncommon to see teas at ¥600-2,000 a jin and the record for a rare top-grade tea sold at auction is ¥9,000 ''a gram''. As for wines, a single variety &mdash; such as burgundy or tieguanyin &mdash; is available in a wide range of grades, the expensive products are best avoided unless you know exactly what you are getting, and most drinkers will be quite happy with lesser types. [[File:Chinese Tea Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Tea set]] Many Quanzhou tea shops also sell the miniature tea sets that are most commonly used in this area; making and drinking tea this way is somewhat labor-intensive (each cup is smaller than a shot glass and a 'pot' is about as big as a coffee cup) but an enjoyable social experience. Making and serving tea in this way is not really a tea 'ceremony' in the sense of a Japanese tea ceremony, but it is still a ritualized and celebrated process. North of the mosque, across the arched bridge over the small creek (Baguagou), is a traditional courtyard house that has been converted into a teahouse. This is a good place to get an introduction to the local tea service, your server can show you how to prepare the tea. Most tea shops will also be happy to give you an impromptu lesson in brewing tea. ===Books and maps=== The labirynthine Quanzhou Book City (泉州书城), located underground in Zhongshan Park (Zhongshan North Road, just south of Quanshan Gate), is pretty good for books and maps of all kinds (mostly in Chinese, of course). Lots of provincial atlases from StarMaps "军民双用" ("Military and civil use") series, which are superior to most other publishers' products. [[File:Quanzhou - bike traffic - DSCF8718.JPG|thumb|Many major streets have well-utilized bicycle lanes]] ===Bicycles=== Quanzhou's bike shops of all kinds are concentrated in Zhongshan Nan Lu (Zhongshan South Road). The more southern section, from Tianhou Lu to Yiquan Lu, has primarily electric bike shops. More to the north, from Yiquan Lu to Tumen Lu, regular (pedal) bicycles are found as well, in at least a dozen shops. There are a few high-end places for various brands, as well as several shops for Chinese mass-market bikes, in the ¥200-500 range. The small family-owned Triace shop at 376 Zhongshan South Road (山南路376号) can be recommended for its friendly and knowledgeable staff. They speak good Mandarin and a bit of English, and can provide local advice and help you get in touch with local bicycle enthusiasts. ===Electronics=== Need a new iPad? A Chinese cell phone? Some spare parts for your laptop? Computer, cell phone, and electronics shops can be found in Jiuyi St (九一街), west of Wenling Rd. There are also many cell phone shops farther east, as Jiuyi St becomes Fengce Rd (丰泽路). == Learn == The original [[Shaolin Temple]], one of China's greatest centers of kung fu, is in [[Henan]], but during one of China's many wars a lot of the monks fled South and founded '''Southern Shaolin''' with three temples in [[Fujian]]. The one in Quanzhou, at the foot of Qingyuanshan, dates back to the ninth century; the ones in nearby [[Putian]] and [[Fuqing]] are even older but are now less active. The Quanzhou temple has been burnt down at least once, but has been rebuilt; it takes foreign students for intensive training at rates (as of 2010) around $500 a month including room and board. ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Bart's Kitchen |alt=椰林阁娘惹私房菜 | url=http://www.tooeat.com/vip/index.asp?storeid=189 {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=at Dong fang min zhu #115 (东方明珠) on Feng zi street (丰泽街) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +86 595-22217892 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:30-10:30 | price=Expect to ¥20-60 per head | content=Southeast Asian and Western cuisine, with an English menu. }} *{{eat | name=The Mandarin Hotel |alt=悦华酒店 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Large lunch (¥160) and dinner (¥270) buffet with both eastern and western dishes. }} *{{eat | name=Amazon BBQ buffet |alt=亚马逊烤肉 | url= | email= | address=on Ci tong road (刺桐路) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=All-you-can-eat at moderate prices. Food is generally mediocre, but will hit the spot if you are feeling both hungry and carnivorous; the menu includes lots of meat. They brew their own beer, mostly excellent (the green one tastes like lawn clippings, but gold, red and black are ''very'' good) and also moderately priced. There are several locations across town. The lunch buffet is ¥40 and the dinner buffet is ¥60. }} *{{eat | name=Yuan pan |alt=元番日本料理 | url= | email= | address=on Quan xiu road (泉秀路). | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Japanese sushi with buffet prices starting at ¥118. }} *{{eat | name=Mr. Chiu’s Chiu Chau beef brisket noodles |alt=啊潮牛栏面 | url= | email= | address=on Hu xin jie (湖心街). | lat= | long= | directions=heading north on Tian an road (田安北路), turn left on Hu xin jie (湖心街); it'll be on your right | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Delicious slow-cooked cubes of beef served in a mild Chinese curry sauce. }} *{{eat | name=Lan zhou hand-pulled noodles |alt=兰州拉面 | url= | email= | address=on Hu xin street (湖心街) opposite Mr. Chiu's beef noodles | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=French-Vietnamese restaurant |alt=红石 | url= | email= | address=various locations across town | lat= | long= | directions=one next to the Puppet Museum behind the Muslim Mosque | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=High-quality in both decor and food, but high-priced as well. }} * {{eat | name=Thai-Vietnamese Restaurant |alt=泰好吃 | url= | email= | address=2 locations in town | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Xiaolongbao |alt=小龙包 | url= | email= | address=381 Zhongshan Road (中山路) | lat= | long= | directions=slightly south of Yiquan Road (义全街) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=More like Shanghai-style San jian bao, with a chewy dough, minced-pork stuffing, and a sweet chili sauce. It is generally ordered alongside a clear soup. }} *{{eat | name=Little Fat Sheep Hot Pot |alt=小肥羊火锅 | url= | email= | address=several locations across town | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A huge chain of Hot Pot restaurants with hundreds of locations across China. }} * {{eat | name=淳百味 Chun Bai Wei | alt= | url= | email= | address=On the corner of 新华南路 (Xinhua nan lu) and 新门街 (Xinmen jie) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00 - 22:30 | price= | lastedit=2015-03-04 | content=A cheap, tasty fill-up with a picture menu. Delicious dumplings (6 for ¥4). Noodle and rice dishes, large portions for ¥5-15. Breakfast available until 10:00, dumplings (bao zi, jiao zi), soya bean milk, dough sticks etc. (Feb 2015) }} There are several '''vegetarian''' restaurants near Chengtien Temple on Nanjun Road * {{eat | name=Pu Ti | url= | email= | address=Nanjun Road | lat= | long= | directions=Half a block north of East Street (Dong Jie) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Wumingzi | alt=lit.: No Name | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=between Pu Ti and Dico's (a fried chicken fast food restaurant) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Decent, buffet style place. }} * {{eat | name=Vegetarian Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=across Nanjun Road from the Carp City Hotel (Lichung Dajiudian) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Good and quite fancy. }} ==Drink== ===Bars=== *{{drink | name=The Brickyard Pub & Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/thebrickyardchina/ | email= | address=Unit 101, Block 6 Quanxiu Lu, Fengze District, Liveshow Wonderland | lat= | long= | directions=地址：泉州市丰泽区泉秀街领秀天地 6号楼101单元 Only a five minute walk from the Yue Hwa Hotel | phone=+86 595 15960431105 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=06:00-02:00 | price= | content=A western-style pub & cafe popular with Quanzhou's western expatriate community. }} Zhuangyuan Street (Bar Street) is to the east of Zhongshan Road north of the center of town. The street is parallel and slightly south of East Street. It has many bars. ===Cafes=== * {{drink | name=Nicola Coffee | alt=尼姑啦 | url= | email= | address=Next to Hua qiao hotel (华侨大夏) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Wen hua gong (文化宫). }} ==Sleep== Quanzhou is not a tourist-oriented city and there are relatively few hotels. By 2015, a fair number of Quanzhou hosts have registered with airbnb.com. ===Budget=== There is a hotel attached to the main bus station; turn right as you come out of the station and look for the London/Moscow/Beijing/... row of clocks in the reception area. There are several more hotels along the (fairly long, but walkable) street that leads west from there toward the center of town. On Wenling Road or Chongfu Road are several cheap business hotels, for ¥50-100. * {{sleep | name=Baiyun Hotel | alt=Baiyun Binguan | url= | email= | address=157 Zhongshan South Road | lat= | long= | directions=slightly north of Mazu Temple | phone=+86 595 22397807 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Expect to pay around ¥60 after bargaining | checkin= | checkout= | content=A convenient hotel for cheap travelers. Rooms are relatively large and clean, but fixtures are old so have a careful look at the room first, and ask for a different room if needed. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Carp City Hotel | alt=鲤城大酒店; Licheng Dajiudian | url= | email= | address=Nanjun Middle Rd | lat= | long= | directions=south of Dong St | phone= +86 22279888 (Reception), +86 22279111 (room reservations), +86 22272777 (restaurant reservations) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From ¥370 (low season from ¥240) | checkin= | checkout= | content=A three-star hotel in a fairly central location. }} * {{sleep | name=Overseas Chinese Hotel | url= | email= | address=Baiyun Road | lat= | long= | directions=across the street from the Culture Park and backing on the Confucius Temple | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=After bargaining, expect to pay ¥300 for a single | checkin=14:00 | checkout=noon | content=A business hotel with a good range of services in a central location. }} ===Splurge=== Thete are several high-end hotels along Baiyuan Road and nearby streets; they look like palaces and are easy to spot. * {{sleep | name=Quanzhou Hotel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=two blocks west along the street just north of the Overseas Chinese Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Fancy. Excellent but expensive weekend brunch. }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson's | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=out in the Eastern suburbs | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} ==Connect== The area code for Quanzhou is 595. ==Go next== * Bus to [[Fuzhou]] leaves from the bus station at the southern end of the main tourist street (not the main bus station) and takes about 3 hours (¥60-70). * There are also buses to Fuzhou, [[Xiamen]] and overnight to [[Shenzhen]] from the small station next to the Overseas Chinese Hotel. This will be a convenient location for many travellers, but larger stations have a better choice of routes and departure times. * Several times a week, there is an early-morning bus to [[Mount Wuyi]] and [[Jingdezhen]]. This bus is small dirty sleepers, arrives at many of its destinations very late at night, and drops passengers off by the side of the highway rather than the bus station. Consider taking the train instead. * [[Chongwu]] is an old walled town near Quanzhou. There are good beaches near it. {{IsPartOf|South Fujian}} {{Geo|24.9|118.6}} {{usablecity}} l9w9ge0dnubg5gqytdyfpv4kh2urpgh 0 29238 5091059 4935915 2025-07-10T21:14:09Z Gerode 2196717 /* See */ Pulled in Bear Country USA content from [[Badlands National Park]] 5091059 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Rapid City Banner.jpg}} '''[https://www.visitrapidcity.com/ Rapid City]''' is in the [[Badlands and Black Hills]] region of [[South Dakota]]. It is a convenient base for travel on to the [[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]], the Crazy Horse Memorial, the [[Badlands]], and the [[Black Hills National Forest]]. Rapid City is often referred to as just "Rapid" by the locals, and the name Rapid City originated from Rapid Creek. In 2020, it was home to 75,000 people. It is known for its convenient tourist attractions located near city services. Reptile Gardens, Bear Country, and Cosmos are just a few. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Rapid City Regional Airport | alt={{IATA|RAP}} | url=https://www.rapairport.com/ | email= | address= | lat=44.045278 | long=-103.057222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Rapid City Regional Airport | image=Rapid City Regional Airport.JPG | wikidata=Q2876124 | lastedit=2019-03-29 | content=This modern regional airport offers fee-based long-term and hourly parking and free Wi-Fi. }} Non-stop services offered: * [http://www.united.com/ United Airlines] (operated by SkyWest) Multiple daily flights from Denver, Colorado, multiple weekly flights from Chicago (O'Hare), Illinois, and seasonal flights from Houston, Texas. * [http://www.delta.com/ Delta Air Lines] (operated by SkyWest) Multiple daily flights from Salt Lake City, Utah and Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota. * American Airlines has nonstop flights from Dallas/Fort Worth and seasonal service from Chicago. * [http://www.allegiantair.com/ Allegiant Air] (Budget airline) has nonstop flights from Las Vegas and Phoenix/Mesa. Connecting an overseas flight to Rapid City is often relatively cheap. Flights to [[Amsterdam]] start at $500. ===By car=== I-90 is the main highway that passes through Rapid City, South Dakota. The highway is more scenic coming from the west, however the Badlands lies east of Rapid City, which has a scenic highway for more aesthetic appeal. ===By bus=== Rapid City can be reached from almost anywhere in the US with two or less connections. There are daily services aboard [http://www.jeffersonlines.com/ Jefferson Lines] from the Twin Cities, Sioux Falls and on to Wyoming. Jefferson lines contracts with Greyhound, while offering a superior service to Greyhound one can book them in connection with Greyhound quite economically. Powder River Lines (Operated by Coach USA) offers service to Wyoming and on to Denver and the West Coast. ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape}} Many people choose to use a personal vehicle, but it is not necessary. All of downtown Rapid City's attractions are walkable. To reach other places, such as the Rushmore Mall, one can use the [http://www.rapidride.org/ Rapid Ride System] from the Milo Barber Transit Center. There are four loop routes featuring buses going in both directions about every 70 min around each loop. Fare is $1 and includes a transfer. If you want to travel before 6AM or after 6PM, you will have to take a taxi, there are plenty in Rapid City for your needs. Also, there are several travel services that are available for the "night life" to ensure a safe and inexpensive ride home, Scooters and Jonesy's Party Bus. ==See== [[File:TriceratopsDinosaurPark.jpg|thumb|Triceratops]] *{{listing | type=see | name=The Journey Museum & Learning Center | alt= | url=http://www.journeymuseum.org/ | email= | address=222 New York St | lat=44.0866 | long=-103.219 | directions= | phone=+1 605 394-6923 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The Journey Museum and Learning Center | image=| wikidata=Q6034535 | lastedit=2019-05-29 | content=Interesting exhibits about Native American History. }} *{{see | name=Dinosaur Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=44.07806 | long=-103.24586 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Concrete dinosaurs on a hill overlooking the city. }} *{{see | name=Hotel Alex Johnson | alt= | url=http://www.alexjohnson.com | email= | address= | lat=44.080393 | long=-103.227527 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hotel Alex Johnson | image=HotelAlexJohnson.jpg | wikidata=Q17131785 | content=An old hotel }} * {{see | name=Reptile Gardens | alt= | url=http://www.reptilegardens.com/ | email= | address=Mount Rushmore Rd | lat=43.9904 | long=-103.272 | directions=about 6 mi from downtown | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-335-0275 | hours=Hours vary by season | price=Price varies by season, children under 4 free | wikipedia=Reptile Gardens | image=Bird_show_at_Reptile_Gardens,_South_Dakota.jpg | wikidata=Q3427461 | content=This is a serious herpetological park (as well as a "fun" place) with one of the best collections of lizards, gators and snakes in the country-quite possibly ''the'' best. "Gus" (short for "humongous"), the resident 14-foot-long American alligator, is a favorite. }} [[File:Berlin Wall Exhibit at Memorial Park in Rapid City, South Dakota.jpg|thumb|right|Berlin Wall Exhibit at Memorial Park]] *{{see | name=South Dakota Air and Space Museum | alt= | url=http://www.sdairandspacemuseum.com/ | email= | address= | lat=44.133561 | long=-103.073142 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=South Dakota Air and Space Museum | image=South Dakota Air and Space Museum, Oct 2011.JPG | wikidata=Q7566943 | content=The museum is open from 8:30AM to 4:30PM seven days a week and admission is always free. Witness the changes through time by experiencing the aircraft and technology that changed the world. }} *{{see | name=Berlin Wall Exhibit | url= | email= | address= | lat=44.0860247 | long=-103.2278227 | directions=In Memorial Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=free | content=Segments of the Berlin Wall. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Geology | alt= | url=https://sdsmt.edu/Academics/Museum-of-Geology/Museum | email=museum@sdsmt.edu | address= | lat=44.07375 | long=-103.20603 | directions= | phone=+1 605-394-2467 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-6PM beginning Memorial Day, 8:30AM-4PM beginning Labor Day | price=Free | image=SDSMT museum, Rapid City.jpg | lastedit=2021-04-04 | content=A museum operated by the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology that features various fossils and minerals. }} * {{see | name=Bear Country USA | alt= | url=http://www.bearcountryusa.com/ | email= | address=13820 South Hwy 16 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 605 343-2290 | tollfree= | fax=+1 605 341-3206 | hours=May–November, daily. June–August 8AM-7PM, otherwise 9AM-4PM. | price=Ages under 4: Free; Ages 5 to 12: $10; Ages 13 to 61 : $16; Ages 62+: $13; Maximum/Vehicle: $60; Season Pass: $150 | lastedit=2016-04-25 | content=The world's largest collection of reptiles, as well as some other animals with educational and entertaining demonstrations of snakes, crocodiles, and others. }} ==Do== *{{do | name=Art Alley | alt= | url=https://www.artalleyrc.com/ | email= | address=599 7th St between St. Joseph & Main | lat=44.080699 | long=-103.228082 | directions=Right by the Alex Johnson | phone=+1 806-893-4592 | tollfree= | hours=24 | price=Free | content=Art Alley is an unusual art gallery in downtown Rapid. Graffiti, Paintings, Sculpture, Poetry, and even profile photos fill this alley that is always changing where the Black Hill's under thirty locals hang out. Artists paint on the building walls with the owner's permission.[[Image:Rapid City Art Alley.jpg|thumb|Art Alley in Rapid City]] }} *{{do | name=Badlands Sabres | url=http://na3hl.com/teams/team-detail.cfm?id=626| email= | address=235 Waterloo St| lat=44.08420 | long=-103.22749 | directions= | phone=+1 605 394-6161 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-08-09 | content=Enjoy an ice-hockey game at the Roosevelt Park Ice Arena. The Sabres play in the North American Tier III hockey league. }} * {{do | name=Elks Theater | alt= | url=http://www.elkstheatre.com/ | email= | address= | lat=44.08058 | long=-103.22678 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A converted traditional theater, featuring the largest screen in South Dakota, the lowest prices in Rapid City, first run movies and a lot of fun kids-all right downtown. }} * {{do|name=Flags and Wheels Indoor Racing|lat=44.0827|long=-103.2405|url=http://www.flagsandwheels.com/ }} - located in Rapid City * {{do | name=Fort Hays Chuckwagon Supper & Show, Dances with Wolves film set | alt= | url=http://www.mountrushmoretours.com | email= | address= | lat=44.00188 | long=-103.25499 | directions=4 miles S. of Rapid City on Hwy 16W | phone= | tollfree=+1-888-394-9653 | hours=Open mid-May thru mid-Sep | price= | content=Movie-set buildings from ''Dances With Wolves'' are part of the fun of this traditional cowboy supper with music and comedy show. All you can eat 99¢ pancakes 6:30AM-11AM. Supper bell rings at 6:30PM nightly for a hearty meal of BBQ beef, chuckwagon potatoes, spice cake, baked beans, biscuits, applesauce and coffee or lemonade. Then is time for our foot-stomping music/comedy show by the Ft. Hays Wranglers. }} *{{do | name=Storybook Island | alt= | url=http://storybookisland.org/ | email= | address= | lat=44.07203 | long=-103.26324 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A kids' park. }} *{{do | name=Watiki Water Park | alt= | url=http://www.watikiwaterpark.com/ | email= | address=1314 North Elk Vale | lat=44.09862 | long=-103.14832 | directions=I-90 exit 61 | phone= | tollfree=+1-866-WATIKIFUN | hours= | price= | content=The water park concept is wonderful. }} * Go antiquing. [[Image:Rapid City Downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Rapid City]] * Cool off at one of the water parks. * Talk to the locals. * Taste the wonderful coffee at any local coffee shop ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Prairie Edge | alt= | url=http://www.prairieedge.com/ | email= | address= | lat=44.08128 | long=-103.22713 | directions=6th and Main | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=American Indian goods. }} * {{listing | type=buy | name=The Rushmore Mall | alt= | url=http://www.rushmoremall.com/ | email= | address=2200 N Maple Ave | lat=44.107 | long=-103.212 | directions= | phone=+1 605 348-3378 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Rushmore Mall | wikidata=Q7380864 |lastedit=2021-06-24| content=The only indoor mall within a 350-mile radius. It features many typical suburban stores. It is surrounded by Lowes, Kohls, Best Buy, Hobby Lobby, Chuckie Cheese, two multiplex cinemas, and other retailers. }} *{{buy | name=Rushmore Crossing | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=44.0981 | long=-103.1866 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A strip mall containing major brand stores: Furniture Row, Scheel's, Sam's Club, Target. }} ==Eat== Rapid City is one of South Dakota's culinary centers. There is a gelato stand on Mount Rushmore Road with excellent Italian ice cream. Baken Park (at the intersection of W Main St. and Mountain View Rd.) offer several fast-food chains. North Rapid, the area around Rushmore Mall, offers several sit-down chain restaurants as well. * {{eat | name=Hana Korean Grill and Sushi Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=3550 Sturgis Rd | lat=44.08641 | long=-103.27899 | directions= | phone=+1 605 348-0299 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10AM-9PM daily | price=$10-30 | content=Sushi and a wide variety of beverages, as well as Korean favorites such as Bulgogi (Barbecue) and Gal Bee (Barbecue Short Ribs). }} * {{eat | name=Alternative Fuel | alt= | url=https://www.alternativefuelcoffeehouse.com/ | email= | address=512 Main St, Suite 110 | lat=44.08135 | long=-103.22598 | directions= | phone=+1 605 791-3791 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 7AM-3PM, F 7AM-5PM, Sa 8AM-5PM, Su 9AM-4PM | price= | content=Wonderful staff, environment, and coffee. They also serve breakfast items, sandwiches, soups, and desserts. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=Delmonico Grill | alt= | url=https://www.delmonicogrill.com/ | email= | address=609 Main St | lat=44.08096 | long=-103.22765 | directions=across from the Fire House | phone=+1 605 791-1664 | tollfree= | hours= | price=$15-50 | content=Delmonico Grill is one of several great choices for dining in Downtown Rapid City. }} * {{eat | name=Enigma Restaurant | url=http://www.enigmarestaurant.com | email= | address=445 Mt Rushmore Rd | lat=44.08195 | long=-103.23131 | directions=at Main St, inside the Radisson Hotel | phone=+1 605 716-0600 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6AM-2PM, 5-10PM daily | price=$10-50 for 1-2 people respectively | content=An upscale restaurant where you will experience a unique fashion of service with delicious foods that are the passion of fusion cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Armadillo's Ice Cream Shoppe | url= | email= | address=130 Main St | lat=44.08008 | long=-103.21915 | directions= | phone=+1 605-355-0507 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Many different flavors of delicious ice cream. Great place to eat and relax don't be surprised if there is a huge line. Totally worth the wait. }} * {{eat | name=Great Wall Chinese Restaurant | url=http://www.greatwalltogo.com/ | email= | address=315 E North St | lat=44.08727 | long=-103.20675 | directions= | phone=+1 605-348-1060 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It is one of the premiere oriental restaurants with authentic food that will tantalize taste-buds. }} * {{eat | name=Ichiban Sushi Bar & Japanese Cuisine | url=https://ichibanrapidcity.com/ | email= | address=1109 W Omaha St A | lat=44.08388 | long=-103.23675 | directions= | phone=+1 605-341-7178 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The only restaurant serving Japanese food in Rapid City. Watch the chef use the most freshest ingredients while they create your perfect dish. }} * {{eat | name=Alpine Inn | url=https://alpineinnhillcity.com/ | email= | address=133 Main St, Hill City | lat=43.93281 | long=-103.57552 | directions= | phone=+1 605-574-2749 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The warm atmosphere (which Wally refers to as Gemutlichkeit) of the Alpine extends beyond the surface Wally's kitchen and arms have always been open to those in need of a good ear and good advice. Several of her original employees have remained with her through the years out of the sense of "Family" that Wally and the Alpine have brought to them. }} * {{eat | name=Colonial House | url=http://colonialhousernb.com | email= | address=2315 Mt Rushmore Rd | lat=44.06285 | long=-103.23307 | directions= | phone=+1 605-342-4640 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-9PM daily | price=$3-30 | content=Good down home cooking. The C house serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. when you go for breakfast make sure to get the caramel rolls, they are homemade and to die for. All deserts are made in house by Master pastry chef Jeff Slather. Voted number 3 in all of Rapid City by trip adviser. This restaurant is a must stop while enjoying your stay in Rapid City. }} * {{eat | name=Shooters Steakhouse & Sports Grill | url=https://www.shooterswoodfiregrill.com/ | email= | address=2424 W Main St | lat=44.08264 | long=-103.26009 | directions= | phone=+1 605-348-3348 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Broad variety menu from Mexican cuisine to steaks and pastas, but best known for their buffalo chicken wings. With their multiple television screens, Shooters is a great place to watch the Monday Night Football Game or any other sporting event. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Firehouse Brewing Company | alt= | url=http://www.firehousebrewing.com | email= | address=610 Main St | lat=44.081415 | long=-103.227570 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Firehouse is a restaurant and brewery built in the old downtown firestation. There is a great variety of food offered from Mexican, to German, to traditional hotdogs and hamburgers. In the summer, the outdoor patio features a full menu and bar in addition to live music and plays. They have large windows where you can view the brewing process. The beer menu changes seasonally to offer a variety of brews throughout the year. The options range from very light IPA's and ales to dark rich beers and even a house favorite red brew. You will not be disappointed with the menu, although the service can be hit or miss. Plan on going early in the summer to get a spot outside for the entertainment. In the winter, you can enjoy dinner theatre with new performances monthly. }} * {{drink | name=Prairie Berry | alt= | url=http://www.prairieberry.com/ | email= | address= 23837 US Highway 385, Hill City | lat=43.94972 | long=-103.52251 | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-226-9453 | hours=Daily 10AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2023-02-24 | content=They offer wines made from 100% South Dakota ingredients. }} *{{drink | name=Wine Cellar Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.winecellarrestaurant.com | email= | address=513 6th St | lat=44.08076 | long=-103.22738 | directions= | phone=+1 605-718-2675 | tollfree= | hours=Tu W 3:30-10PM; Th F 3:30-11PM; Sa 5-11PM | price=$10-30 | content=Casual fine dining, extensive wine list & beer menu, late night menu weekends. Located in one of downtown's historic buildings in the newly renovated 6th Street District. European and Californian cuisine made to order with the freshest ingredients. Enjoy casual fine dining amongst candles and fresh flowers in the main dining room, enclosed back alley or the seasonal outdoor sidewalk patio. Extensive wine list & imported & domestic beer menu. Food styles: American (New), burgers, French, Greek and Mediterranean, Italian, Mexican, pizza, seafood, Spanish/Basque, tapas bars, vegetarian. Takes reservations, walk-ins welcome, take out, waiter service, outdoor seating. }} ==Sleep== For easy access to I-90, look up the many hotels off LaCrosse St in North Rapid. Hotels and motels in Rapid City tend to have substantial seasonal variations in room rates, as Rapid City is a busy jumping-off point for the Black Hills in summer but frozen into torpor in the winter. '''Campgrounds''' are strewn all along Mount Rushmore Highway. ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Microtel Inn & Suites | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/microtel/rapid-city-south-dakota/microtel-inn-and-suites-rapid-city-lacrosse-ave/overview?CID=LC:MT::GGL:RIO:National:30055&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1740 Rapp St | lat=44.10266 | long=-103.20112 | directions= | phone=+1 605 389-3760 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Econo Lodge | url= | email= | address=625 E. Disk Dr | lat=44.10574 | long=-103.20161 | directions= | phone=+1 605 342-6400 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Nice hotel room, questionable pool, helpful employees. }} * {{sleep | name=The Price Motel | url= | email= | address=401 East North St | lat=44.08705 | long=-103.20529 | directions=next to Jolly Lane Floral | phone=+1 605-343-1806 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=An older motel that supplies you with the basic necessities. It holds a simple relaxed atmosphere. It also has a great location close to restaurants, shopping, gas stations, as well as the interstate. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Country Inn & Suites | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/country-inn-rapid-city-sd | email=cx_rcsd@countryinn.com | address=2321 N Lacrosse Street| lat=44.10828 | long=-103.20333 | directions=corner of Mt. Rushmore and Main | phone=+1 (605) 394-0017 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= |lastedit=2020-09-28| content=A "hotel" rather than a motel/motor lodge, with several hotel-type amenities. Starbucks on site. }} * {{sleep | name=The Grand Gateway | url=http://www.grandgatewayhotel.com | email= | address=1721 N. La Crosse St | lat=44.10213 | long=-103.20426 | directions=just off of I-90 at exit 59 | phone=+1 605-342-8853 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$40-120 | content=The Grand Gateway has a 130-foot waterslide, 132 guestrooms, meeting and banquet rooms, fitness center, the Cheers Sports Bar & Casino, and is connected to Perkins. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Alex Johnson | alt= | url=http://www.alexjohnson.com | email= | address=523 6th St | lat=44.080383 | long=-103.227561 | directions= | phone=+1 605 342-1210 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Historical downtown hotel, built in 1927. }} * {{sleep | name=Comfort Inn and Suites | url=http://www.comfortsuites.com/hotel-rapid_city-south_dakota-SD072?sid=x4v2Sg.qlgnrgmMO.7 | email= | address=1333 North ELK Vale Rd | lat=44.09781 | long=-103.15353 | directions=Exit 61 across from Watiki | phone=+1 605 791-2345 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=Price depends on season | content=Clean hotel with friendly service and upscale rooms. Rooms can hold 6-10 people. }} * {{sleep | name=River View Lodge | url=http://www.river-view-lodge.com | email= | address=18 miles north of New Underwood | lat=44.35346 | long=-102.84108 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Family-run rural getaway on a 100-year-old working cattle ranch on the banks of the Belle Fourche River. }} ==Go next== Rapid City is the gateway to all the attractions and beauty of the Badlands and Black Hills. Simply start driving south. * '''[[Black Hills National Forest]]''' * '''[[Deadwood]]''' is possibly America's most storied small town from the wild frontier days. * '''[[Mount Rushmore National Memorial]]''' is a short drive away, as is the larger (though incomplete) [http://www.crazyhorse.org/ Crazy Horse Memorial]. * '''[[Sturgis]]''', roughly 12 miles to the East of Deadwood, is the home of the famed Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August. * '''[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]]''' has Wall Drug, whose ubiquitous signs will be more than familiar to any visitor driving on Interstate 90. *'''[[Keystone (South Dakota)|Keystone]]''' if you love trinket shopping, or looking that perfect piece of jewelry, visit Keystone, SD. Close to all the Black Hills attractions, a town that you cannot pass by without wanting to stop. {{routebox | image1=I-90.svg | imagesize1=22 | image1a=US 14.svg | imagesize1a=22 | image1b= | imagesize1b= | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Gillette]] | minorl1=[[Sturgis]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Sioux Falls]] | minorr1=[[Wall (South Dakota)|Wall]] | image2=US 16.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Gillette]] | minorl2=[[Keystone (South Dakota)|Keystone]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=END | minorr2= }} {{usablecity}} {{geo|44.08056|-103.23111}} {{isPartOf|Badlands and Black Hills}} 47hk605dd3qwz62mcowfaxa1snwosiy 0 29312 5091063 4702496 2025-07-10T21:25:43Z Ziv 2248136 ([[c:GR|GR]]) [[c:COM:FR|File renamed]]: [[File:The Main Caves.jpg]] → [[File:The Main Caves, Belum, Andhra Pradesh.jpg]] [[c:COM:FR#FR2|Criterion 2]] (meaningless or ambiguous name) 5091063 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Rayalaseema Garuda cliff in Tirumala.jpg}} The '''Rayalaseema''' region of [[Andhra Pradesh]] in [[India]] consists of the districts of Annamayya, Anantapur, Chittoor, Kadapa, Kurnool, Nandyal, and Sri Sathya Sai. ==Cities== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape|wikidata=Q15212,Q15213,Q15342,Q15381,Q110714854,Q110714863,Q110714861}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Anantapur]]|wikidata=Q760144}} &mdash; a city well connected by road and rail with the city and nearby attractions * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Aragonda]]|wikidata=Q4783728}} &mdash; a village * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Banaganapalli]]|wikidata=Q1553292}} &mdash; a village in an area famous for diamond deposits * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chittoor]]|wikidata=Q11198998}} &mdash; close to the revered temple of lord Balaji and [[Horsley Hills]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Cuddapah]]|wikidata=Q30651}} (Kadapa) &mdash; picturesque city with several important temples * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Gandikota]]|wikidata=Q3764632}} &mdash; village within the Gandikota Fort complex * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kalikiri]]|wikidata=Q6352700}} &mdash; several temples and wonderful area for trekking * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kanipakam]]|wikidata=Q11055174}} &mdash; tamous temple of Lord Vinayaka * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kurnool]]|wikidata=Q3635276}} &mdash; the site of Konda Reddy Fort * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mahanandi]]|wikidata=Q3424002}} &mdash; known as 'Majestic Cow', this village is famous for its temple's freshwater pools * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mantralayam]]|wikidata=Q3429329}} &mdash; a temple of Sri Raghavendra Swamy * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Nandyal]]|wikidata=Q1772751}} &mdash; a town surrounded by nine temples * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Puttaparthi]]|wikidata=Q1068595}} &mdash; place of Satya Saibaba (Shantinilayam) * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Srisailam]]|wikidata=Q2269015}} &mdash; home to one of the Jyotirlinga temples ==Other destinations== [[File:The Main Caves, Belum, Andhra Pradesh.jpg|thumb|Belum Caves]] * {{marker|type=other|name=[[Belum Caves]]|wikidata=Q723862}} &mdash; a network of natural underground caves in shale/slate rock partly explored * {{marker|type=other|name=[[Horsley Hills]]|wikidata=Q3764191}} &mdash; a hill station and summer residence of British governors ==Understand== ==Talk== The major language is [[Telugu_phrasebook|Telugu]]. Some people can understand [[Hindi_phrasebook|Hindi]] and English. At Ahobilam, people can understand and talk in [[Kannada_phrasebook|Kannada]]/[[Tamil_phrasebook|Tamil]]. ==Get in== Tirupati Airport ({{IATA|TIR}}) ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Eat== Mostly rice, pappu, and also famous for ugani bajji in Kurnool. ==Drink== ==Stay safe== Be careful while travelling at night. Many roads in this area are isolated and dark during the night. ==Go next== {{outlineregion}} {{IsPartOf|Andhra Pradesh}} {{geo|14.47|78.82|zoom=8}} banhwau6gzd9x7303lhwca5hd7uum8b 0 29751 5091163 4426930 2025-07-11T02:56:41Z DaGizza 162256 /* Do */ 5091163 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Riohacha banner.jpg|caption:banner 7:1 for wikivoyage}} '''Riohacha''' is the capital of the department of [[La Guajira]]. The city with 188,000 inhabitants (2018) is on the Caribbean coast and the land behind the town is rather desert-like. ==Get in== [[File:Riohachacity.jpg|thumbnail|400px|The beach of Riohacha]] ===By plane=== {{listing | type=go | name=Almirante Padilla Airport | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.526111 | long=-72.925833 | directions={{km|3}} south-west of the centre of Riohacha | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Almirante Padilla Airport | wikidata=Q2233144 | content=There are taxis going to the city. }} You may also want to consider flying to the airport of Santa Marta. There can be big savings, especially on last-minute flights. From Santa Marta there are intercity buses to Riohacha. ===By bus=== The {{marker|type=go | name=Terminal de Transporte | lat=11.54091 | long=-72.91110}} is 1 km south of the city centre at junction Caerera 11 and Avenida El Progreso. A taxi to the centre is COP$5,000 (Oct 2021). Buses of Expreso Brasilia/Unitransco go: * from [[Santa Marta]]: 2½ hours (every half hour). Several intercity bus companies like Brasilia, Copetran, Unitransco and Exalpa. In Oct 2021 it was COP$30,000 with Copetran * from [[Barranquilla]]: 5 hours (every half hour) * from [[Cartagena (Colombia)|Cartagena]]: 7 hours (every hour) * from [[Maicao]]: 1 hour * from [[Bogota]]: 18 hours (once a day) Buses with COPetram go: * from [[Bucaramanga]]: 12 hours (8AM, 3:30PM) * from [[Valledupar]]: 3½ hours (8:15AM, 3:30PM) * from [[Uribia]]: 1 hour with a colectivo. In Uriba you can change buses from [[Cabo de la Vela]]. Coming from a village between Santa Marta and Palomino: Only a few intercity bus companies allow you to join the ride. For example Brasilia and Copetrans don't. It could take some time until you can depart. To Palomino you can take the white bus. In Palomino are shared taxis to the Calle 15 (Highway 90) in Riohacha for COP$20,000 (Oct 2021) and to your accommodation in Riohacha for COP$25,000 (Oct 2021). ==Get around== {{Mapframe|11.54731|-72.90999|zoom=15}} Downtown Riohacha is very walkable. There's nothing much to see outside of the ten or so square blocks around the ocean. If you need to take some wheels, it's easy to hail a cab. Mototaxis cannot go to the old centre, only taxi cars. ==See== * {{see | name=Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.55307 | long=-72.90849 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Riohacha presents a much less touristy Colombian beach than what you will find in [[Barranquilla]] or [[Cartagena (Colombia)|Cartagena]]. The beach runs along the coast of the city and tends to be relatively crowded with locals and a smattering of Colombian tourists during the high season. You can also take a stroll out onto the pier where la virgen Mary awaits you at the end. }} * {{see | name=Colonial churches | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.55176 | long=-72.90924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are a couple of colonial churches in the downtown area. }} ==Do== *'''Tourist dock:''' Located on the beaches of Riohacha, it offers a privileged location to observe the beautiful sunrises and sunsets, it has also become an extension of the boardwalk of 1ra or 14 de Mayo street. At the end of the dock there is an image of the Virgen del Rosario or Fátima, carved in wood, which is why this point has become a pilgrimage site for those who like religious tourism. * '''Monument Identity''': Tourist boulevard: Along Calle 1ra, facing the sea, this boulevard extends, which offers a special walk, where you can buy Wayuú handicrafts, directly from the hands of artisans, enjoy a delicious shrimp cocktail, see monuments that are on this boulevard, among them the 9-meter-high Identity monument, the sculpture of El Palabrero, the Obelisk with the castes of the Wayuu Ethnic Group, the 'I Love Riohacha' sign and others, which make it entertaining and the ride is happier. * '''Wayuu handicrafts''': Wayuu handicrafts on the boulevard Malecón de Riohacha in the 1st street. * '''Los Flamencos Fauna and Flora Sanctuary''' In Camarones, a village 20 kilometers from Riohacha, is this sanctuary, a refuge for the beautiful Pink Flamingos, striking for their characteristic color and size. This place offers tours so that visitors can admire the landscapes and spot the flamingos. *'''Rancherías Wayuu''': If you want to immerse yourself in the culture of the indigenous Wayuu, you must visit a ranchería, towards the outskirts of Riohacha, several communities offer the experience of visiting real rancherías, where you can learn a little more about the customs, eat their dishes more traditional and even dance the dance of their ancestors. Contact a travel agency to do that. *'''Valle de los Cangrejos''': It is a swamp area, formed by the Ranchería River delta, where you can see different types of birds and mangroves, in addition to its characteristic crabs and crabs. It also has a wide beach with medium waves. It is not a very exploited destination, so not all tourism agencies include it in their plans, it will be necessary for those who want to visit it to inquire about the existing options. * '''Laguna Salá''': It is a wetland that was formed with the waters of the Ranchería River, since it was once linked to the river, it was the scene of the Battle of Laguna Salada, on May 25, 1820. It still offers a beautiful landscape, in which herons and gannets can be observed, although it has been reduced due to the urban growth of the city. * '''"El Riito" ecocultural trail''': It is a dock that starts from the bridge over the Riíto, bordering the Ranchería River, until reaching the town of Villa Fátima, with a route of approximately one and a half kilometers. Due to the fact that it is a mangrove area and because of its low maintenance, it is not very visited, but it offers beautiful landscapes of the Ranchería River. * '''Kitesurfing and windsurfing''': The practice of these two sports is very well received in the city, especially in the afternoons. Local sailors with their own equipment meet on the city's beaches known as Anasmai, where there are usually no bathers and they enjoy the wind and the sea. Anasmai is a wide and extensive beach passing the Ranchería River to the north of the city within the urban area. Although you can navigate the entire Riohacha coast, this beach is the one indicated by the Port Authority for practices. For tourists or visiting sailors without equipment or curious who want to learn, there are some schools in the city that provide services, give lessons and rent material. * '''Gateway to the desert''': Due to its location and because it is the only city in the department that has an airport, Riohacha becomes an obligatory stopover for those whose final destination is the Alta Guajira desert, where they find places such as Cabo de la Vela, which has a beautiful beach in the desert and Punta Gallinas, the northernmost place in Colombia and South America. ==Buy== [[File:CAMELLON Y MOCHILAS.JPG|thumb|Mochillas sellers]] ATMs are available throughout the city. For example at the beach is a {{buy | name= BBVA Bank | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.5519355 | long=-72.9093702 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | | content=It has 2 ATMs. }} A very good place to buy Wayu artesan products, mochilas in particular. ==Eat== ===Street food=== At the Plaza José Prudencio Padilla is some {{eat | name= street food in the morning| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.5516084 | long= -72.9096448 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | | content=}} And at Carrera 7A/Calle 14 you can find {{eat | name=street food | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.5453329| long=-72.9072935 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | | content=}} ===Budget=== * The simple restaurant inside the '''Terminal de Transporte''' is good. They serve a main dish, a drink and a soup for COP$10,000 altogether (Oct 2021). *{{eat | name= Restaurante Casa China| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.5495602| long=-72.9104652| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | | lastedit=2021-10 | content=Tasty Chinese restaurant with big portions of a main dish from COP$17,000 (Oct 2021). They have a menu card. As of Oct 2021 it's only take away.}} *{{eat | name= Restaurante BrasaMar| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.5520613 | long=-72.9104471| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | | lastedit=2021-10 | content=It has a view on the beach. Tasty Spaghetti Bolognese for COP$17,000, and Salchipapa for COP$10,000. They also serve breakfast until 10:30AM for COP$7,000-12,000.}} *{{eat | name= NOA Restaurante| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.5489824| long=-72.9082852 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | | lastedit=2021-10 | content=It's a delicious Colombian simple restaurant. They have a good variety of meat. A main dish plus soup and drink is from COP$8,000 . It's open from lunch time until 11:30PM. On Wednesdays it's closed.}} *{{eat | name= Captain Marino| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.5523392 | long=-72.9098134 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | image= | | lastedit=2021-10 | content=Here you get three pieces of empanadas filled with shrimps for COP$10,000 }} ===Mid-range=== <br> ===Splurge=== <br> ==Drink== There are a string of bars and small clubs along the ocean which serve Aguila on tap and a few imports. ==Sleep== There is a surprisingly wide variety of accommodation in Riohacha. It's a hot city, you may want to have a room with air conditioning. The most expensive places tend to be located next to the beach, with a series of slightly dated mega-hotels. Expect discounts of up to 60% in the off season or for rooms that do not face the ocean. Lower priced are small bunkhouses and guest hostels further away from the beach. Try just east of the bus station. As of July 2009, be warned that many of these places cater to internal refugees displaced from Colombia's long drug wars. You will probably be sharing with some (mostly friendly) long term guests. [[File:Colombie-riohacha005.jpg|alt=|thumb]] * {{sleep | name=Nueve Uno Hostel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cra. 9 ### 1 - 32| lat=11.5519135 | long=-72.9101494 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2021-11-04 | content=With air conditioning and directly at the beach and the plaza. Dorm beds are for COP$30,000 and have a roller blind. }} * {{sleep | name=Bona Vida Hostel | alt= | url= | email=bonavidahostel@gmail.com | address=Calle 3 #10-10 | lat=11.5505398 | long=-72.9092837 | directions= | phone=+57 314 6370786 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=1PM | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2021-10-18 | content=It is one block from the main plaza. Run by a great couple, they can tell you how to get to Cabo de la Vela and Punto Gallinas and can call one of the colectivos to pick you up from the door to take you to Uribia. Free breakfast and coffee, fast wifi, common room, lockers. The dorm is for COP$30,000 and without A/C. }} * {{sleep | name=El Castillo del Mar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.54844 | long=-72.91821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Great German-owned hotel on the west side of the beach. At the hotel there is a branch of Kai Ecotravel, who was the first offering La Guajira tours for the big public. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Patio Bonita | alt= | url=http://www.casapatiobonita.com/index.html | email= | address= | lat=11.55252 | long=-72.90406 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Opened in 2013 by a Canadian expat and his Colombian wife. The different rooms are around a nice courtyard, where the breakfast is being served. The owners help you with organizing tours to La Guajira. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel International | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Wifi available in reception. Opposite the market, 3 blocks east of the bus terminal, take a left just after the park. The hotel is tucked between a few jewelry stores, it might be easier to find at night as the shops that flank the entrance are closed. }} ==Connect== ==Go next== Hostels and private rooms are available ...: ===in the south=== *[[Valledupar]] – 190 km ===in the west=== *[[Camarones]] – 25 km *[[Dibulla]] – 60 km *[[Buritaca]] – 120 km *[[Guachaca]] – 125 km *[[Tayrona National Park]] – 135 km *[[Santa Marta]] – 170 km ===in the north-east=== *[[Cabo de la Vela]] – 160 km. From there to [[Punta Gallinas]] – beautiful dunes, desert, exotic beaches and sacred indigenous culture {{geo|11.5442|-72.9069}} {{IsPartOf|La_Guajira}} {{outlinecity}} eeabexrfx3g99nq9yb7yp6f2hiclnco 0 30144 5090822 5090646 2025-07-10T13:39:26Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090822 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Rouen banner.jpg}} '''Rouen''' is the capital of the [[France|French]] region of [[Normandy]] on the River Seine, 135&nbsp;km (approximately 90 minutes drive) northwest from the centre of [[Paris]]. The city has a population of 110,000 and its metropolitan area includes some 666,000 inhabitants (2017). It is where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, but the main reason for visiting is its incredible cathedral that inspired Monet to paint over 30 canvases. Rouen was the home of the author, Gustave Flaubert. ==Understand== [[File:Cathédrale et archevêché.jpg|thumb|300px|View of the back of the Cathedral (left) and Archbishop's Palace (right)]] Rouen was for a long time France's second city, after [[Paris]], which explains the richness of the town's artistic heritage. It has hosted many famous French writers, including Victor Hugo, Guy Maupassant, and Gustave Flaubert, among others. Today, it deserves a visit for its monuments, Gothic art being particularly well represented, but also for the charm of its alleyways and the many half-timbered houses there are. The town is on the right bank of the River Seine, but today, includes the left bank (the ''Saint-Sever'' area in particular, on the south of the river), and the ''Île Lacroix''. ===Tourist information === * [http://www.rouentourisme.com/ Rouen Tourism] website ==Get in== {{Mapframe|49.438|1.090|zoom=12}} ===By car=== *From [[Paris]], Rouen is approximately an hour and a half's drive (135&nbsp;km) north-west from the centre of the French capital, the fastest route including the A13 motorway (note: this a toll road). An alternative route would include the N14 slightly further to the north. *From the Channel port city of [[Dieppe]], Rouen is approximately an hour's drive (66&nbsp;km) south along the N27. *From the French end of the Eurotunnel, Rouen is approximately a 2-hour drive (208&nbsp;km) using the E402. *From other major centres in Normandy, Rouen is respectively 90&nbsp;km (1 hr 10 min) from [[Le Havre]], 128&nbsp;km (1 hr 25 min) from [[Caen]], 156&nbsp;km (1 hr 45 min) from [[Bayeux]] and 249&nbsp;km (2 hr 45 min) from [[Cherbourg]]. ===By train=== * {{listing|type=go | name=Gare de Rouen Rive Droite | alt= | url=https://www.gares-sncf.com/fr/gare/frurd/rouen-rive-droite | email= | address=Place Bernard Tissot | lat=49.448889| long=1.093889 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-18 | content=Several trains depart from the St Lazare Station in Paris for Rouen on a daily basis. Tickets cost around €21 and can be purchased at the station immediately beforehand. Travel time is about 1 hr 15 min. For schedules, visit [http://www.voyages-sncf.fr SNCF travel].}} **The train posting in Paris St-Lazare can be confusing to the first-time traveller. The train platform number (''la voie'') is not posted until 15–20 minutes before the departure, so do not panic if you arrive earlier than that. Look for the train heading to Le Havre or Dieppe which will be leaving from the platforms to the right as you enter the concourse. Do not forget to punch (''composter'') your ticket in one of the yellow machines before boarding. This will validate your ticket. ===By bus=== [https://global.flixbus.com/bus-routes Flixbus] and [https://www.blablacar.co.uk/bus BlablaCar Bus] serve the city. From Paris, connections can be made with buses throughout France and Europe. ===By boat=== Ferries from the [[UK]] go to the French ports of [[Dieppe]] and [[Le Havre]], from where trains can be caught to Rouen. For foot-passengers, the train and ferry journey from [[London]] via [[Newhaven]] and Dieppe is one of the most pleasant and restful ways of getting to Rouen. ===By plane=== * {{listing|type=go | name=Rouen Airport | alt= Aéroport de Rouen - Vallée de Seine ({{IATA|URO}})| url= https://www.rouen.aeroport.fr/ {{dead link|December 2020}}| email=contact@rouen.aeroport.fr | address= | lat= 49.390833| long=1.183889 | directions= | phone= +33 2 35 79 41 00| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-18 | wikidata=Q1146471| wikipedia=Rouen Airport | content=There are connections from here to [[Lyon]] and [[Bastia]] ([[Corsica]]), however, it is a very small airport, so not the most practical. }} ==Get around== [[File:Rouen-01.jpg|thumb|Map of public transport in Rouen. The Métro is blue, the T1 line is red, T2 line is green and T3 line is purple. The last three are BRT lines.]] The city center is compact and all sights can easily be seen by foot, however, there is public transport throughout the town. The ''[https://www.reseau-astuce.fr/ Métro du Rouen]'' is a tramway operating in Rouen, running north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines - one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque. There is also a "bus rapid transit" system, which is very similar to a normal bus system, in Rouen, called the Transport est-ouest rouennais (TEOR). This system has three lines in the town, T1, T2 and T3, all of which run on the north of the river. A normal bus system also exists with 29 lines operating throughout the town. Tickets for public transport [https://reseau-astuce.fr/en/tickets/79 can be bought from many places]{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, including the Gare-Rue Verte tram station on Place Bernard-Tissot, the Théâtre des Arts tram station on rue Jeanne d'Arc, from conductors on buses (not on TEOR) and from automatic ticket machines at metro and TEOR stations. Tickets can also be [https://www.reseau-astuce.fr/fr/titre-sms/1026 bought by text], costing €1.60 and are valid for one hour. *Velo-R north of the Seine on Avenue Jeanne D' Arc (near the metro station) rents bikes for €1-2 per day. The city also has an official bicycle rental scheme where you can rent a bike at one location and drop it off at another. *A scooter shop on Avenue De Bretagne no. 18 rents scooters but they need to be reserved ahead of time. There is also an Avis in town. === By taxi === * '''[https://farnes-taxi.fr/ Taxi Rouen Farnes],'''  +33 6 89 07 78 61 * {{go | name=Taxi Rouen T.A Transport | alt= | url=https://www.montaxirouen.fr/ | email= | address=3 rue de la pie | lat=49.4431 | long=1.0993 | directions= | phone=+33 6 67 43 64 69 | tollfree= | hours=09:00 - 20:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-04-10 | content= }} ==See== [[File:Cloître de la Cathédrale de Rouen.jpg|thumb|Cloister of the Cathedral]] [[File:Abbaye Saint-Ouen de Rouen as seen from Gros Horloge 140215 3.jpg|thumb|Saint-Ouen de Rouen]] [[File:Jardin des Plantes (Rouen).jpg|thumb|The Jardin des Plantes]] * {{see | name=Rouen Cathedral | alt=la cathédrale de Rouen | url=http://www.cathedrale-rouen.net/ | email=paroisse.ndrc@orange.fr | address= | lat=49.4402 | long=1.095 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 71 51 23 | tollfree= | fax= | wikidata=Q476516| wikipedia=Rouen Cathedral | hours= | price=€2 for a guided tour |image=Rouen Cathedral as seen from Gros Horloge 140215 4.jpg | content=A stunning building that dates back to the 4th century and is a wonderful mixture of various architectural styles since then. A new spire built in the 19th century meant that it briefly qualified as the tallest building in the world. The façade of the cathedral was famously painted by Claude Monet at various times during the day - like his Haystacks series of paintings - capturing the subject in a variety of lights. In the summer after dark the city puts on a light show projecting some of Monet's cathedral paintings onto the façade of the cathedral itself, each showing lasts approximately 10 minutes and runs until about midnight. }} * {{see | name=La Vieille Ville | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in the center of ''la vieille ville''. A simple field of wildflowers marks the spot of her martyrdom. Next to it is the modern ''Eglise de Jeanne d'Arc''. }} * {{see | name= La Gros-Horloge| alt= The Great Clock| url= | email= | address= | lat=49.441667 | long=1.091111| directions=in the middle of the rue du Gros Horloge | phone= | tollfree= | fax= |image=Rouen France Gros-Horloge-02a.jpg | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3116957|wikipedia=Gros Horloge | lastedit= | content=The mechanism of the clock is one of the oldest in France. Climb to the top for a beautiful view of the city. }} * {{see | name=Birthplace of writer Gustave Flaubert | alt= | url= | email= | address=51, rue de Lecat | lat=49.4452827 | long=1.0817315 | directions= off Boulevard des Belges and not far from place Cauchoise | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-08-28 | content=Best known for his scandalous novel ''Madame Bovary'', has been converted into a museum of his life and of 19th-century medicine (his father and brother were doctors) }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Birthplace of playwright Pierre Corneille | alt= | url=https://www.rouen.fr/corneille | email=bibliotheque@rouen.fr | address=4, rue de la Pie | lat=49.4431 | long=1.0868 | directions=a moment's walk from Vieux Marche | phone=+33 2 76 08 80 88 | tollfree= | hours=Sa 09:00-12:00, 13:30-17:30; Su 14:00-18:00 | price= | content=The birthplace of the French playwright, who is best known for his tragicomedy Le Cid from the mid-17th century. }} * {{see | name=Abbatiale St-Ouen | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.4425| long= 1.099722 | directions=next to the Hotel de Ville at the end of Rue de la Republique | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | wikidata=Q1589963|wikipedia=Church of St. Ouen, Rouen |image=2012-01-15 - panoramio (9).jpg | content=The magnificent [[Gothic architecture]] is not to be missed in this abbey built in 1318. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Historial Jeanne d'Arc | alt= | url=http://www.historial-jeannedarc.fr/ | email=reservation@historial-jeannedarc.fr | address=7, Rue Saint romain | lat=49.4404 | long=1.0959 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 52 48 00 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€9.50, €6.50 reduced | image=Historial de Rouen.jpg | wikidata=Q17355300 | content=Museum and audio visual presentation of Joan of Arc, sells itself as "not like a traditional museum". }} * {{see | name=Musée des Beaux-Arts | alt= | url=http://mbarouen.fr/en | email=info@musees-rouen-normandie.fr | address=Esplanade Marcel-Duchamp | lat=49.444722 | long=1.094722 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 71 28 40 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-18:00 | price=Permanent collections are free | wikidata=Q3086934| wikipedia=Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen | image=Rouen MdBA.JPG | lastedit= | content=It was founded in 1801 by Napoleon, and has paintings by Monet, Caravaggio, Robert Antoine Pinchon and others. }} * {{see | name=Musée Le Secq des Tournelles | alt= | url=http://museelesecqdestournelles.fr/en | email=info@musees-rouen-normandie.fr | address=rue Jacques Villon | lat=49.4444 | long=1.095 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 71 28 40 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free entry, €4 for temporary exhibitions | image=Rouen musee le secq des tournelles.JPG | wikidata=Q3329242 | content=A museum about ironwork, which was founded in 1920, in a church from the 11th century. }} * {{see | name= Jardin des Plantes| alt= | url= https://www.rouen.fr/jardindesplantes| email= | address=7, rue de Trianon | lat=49.4221 | long=1.0771 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 08 87 45 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Nov-Feb: 08:00-17:15; Mar-Apr, Sep-Oct: 08:00-18:30; May-Aug: 08:00-20:00| price= | wikidata=Q3162568| wikipedia=Jardin des Plantes de Rouen | image=Jardin des Plantes (Rouen).jpg | lastedit= | content=These botanical gardens were created in 1691, and opened to the public in 1741. They have greenhouses, statues and around 600 species of plant. }} * {{see | name=Musée du Patrimoine des Ecoles | alt= | url=http://amfreville-la-mivoie.fr/wordpress/?page_id=208 | email=musecoles.amfreville@wanadoo.fr | address= | lat=49.4066 | long=1.1222 | directions= | phone= +33 2 32 98 90 35| tollfree= | fax= | hours= M 14:30-17:00| price= | lastedit= | content=A museum dedicated to the local area's old school from the 1950s-1960s. Group visits can be arranged }} * {{see | name=Pont Gustave-Flaubert | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 49.443611| long= 1.064167| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | image=| wikidata=Q839285| wikipedia=Pont Gustave-Flaubert | content=A €60-million lift bridge, opened in 2008, named after French novelist Gustave Flaubert. It is the third tallest building in the town. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=L'atrium | alt= | url=https://www.atriumnormandie.fr/ | email= | address=115 Boulevard de l'Europe, 76100 Rouen | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 89 42 27 | tollfree= | hours=14:00-18:00, closed on Mondays | price=€6 | lastedit=2019-04-05 | content=Museum on aviation, space flight and related professions. Regular sessions and demonstrations. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Musée Maritime Fluvial et Portuaire | alt= | url=http://www1.musee-maritime-rouen.asso.fr/ | email= | address= Hangar 13, Quai Emile Duchemin| lat=49.44466 | long=1.06070 | directions= | phone= +33 2 32 10 15 51| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= Maritime, Fluvial and Harbour Museum of Rouen| wikidata=Q104314 | image=Vue générale du musée.JPG | lastedit= | content=Local museum highlighting the maritime history of the town. Children will likely enjoy the real boats just outside the museum which you can go on and explore. }} * {{see | name=Aître Saint-Maclou | alt= | url=https://www.aitresaintmaclou.fr/ | email= | address= | lat=49.4403 | long=1.09988 | directions=near the Saint-Maclou Church | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2876188 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A rare and atmospheric example of a medieval charnel house, originally built in the 16th century to cope with victims of the plague. The half-timbered buildings surrounding a central courtyard are decorated with macabre carvings of skulls, bones, and tools of death. Once an ossuary and later a school of fine arts, it now houses exhibitions and a café. }} * {{see | name=Palais de Justice | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.4425 | long=1.092222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3361027 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=One of the finest examples of Gothic civic architecture in France. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, it once served as the seat of the Parliament of Normandy. Its ornate façade is richly decorated with intricate stone carvings, spires, and gargoyles, reflecting the wealth and importance of Rouen during the late Middle Ages. The building was heavily damaged during [[World War II]] but has since been meticulously restored. Today, it still functions as a courthouse. }} * {{see | name=Musée des Antiquités | alt= | url=http://www.museedesantiquites.fr/ | email= | address= | lat=49.4471 | long=1.09949 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3330534 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{see | name=Place du Vieux-Marché | alt=Old Market Square | url= | email= | address= | lat=49.443231 | long=1.088363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q743548 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=One of Rouen’s most historically significant public spaces, famously known as the site where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake on May 30, 1431. A tall cross now marks the location of her execution, serving as a solemn reminder of this pivotal moment in French history. }} ==Do== * Rouen has many biking trails and forests nearby. There is a trail on the north side of the Seine to the ''Foret Roumare''. [https://www.seine-maritime-tourisme.com/diffusio/en/i-choose/walks-and-rides/green-way-and-cylce-route/elbeuf/la-veloroute-du-val-de-seine_TFOITINOR076FS000E4.php La Véloroute du Val de Seine] is a cycling route following the Seine starting at Elbeuf just south of Rouen, and ending at [[Le Havre]]. * Get a boat trip along the Seine, some companies offering cruises include [http://www.escapadeenseine.com/ Escapade en Seine] and [http://www.normandie-croisieres.fr/ Normandie Croisières]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. * {{do | name=Centre Sportif Guy Boissière | alt= |url=https://www.rouen.fr/adresse/piscine-guy-boissiere | email= | address=Allée du Docteur Duchêne | lat= 49.433056| long=1.103333 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 07 94 70 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Pool: €5.20, €3.80 reduced or Rouen resident. Ice rink: €6.30, €4.90 reduced or Rouen resident | lastedit=2017-08-28 | content=Swimming pools, swimming lessons - including an Olympic sized swimming pool. There's also two ice rinks here. For the reduced price, bring along ID proving you're entitled to a reduction in price, or proof you've lived in Rouen for at least a year. }} * {{do | name=Omnia | alt=Cinéma Omnia République | url=http://www.omnia-cinemas.com | email= | address=28 rue de la République | lat=49.43858 | long=1.09702 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 07 82 70 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€4-8.50 | lastedit=2017-08-28 | content=Cinema near the Île Lacroix. }} * {{do | name=Théâtre des Arts | alt= | url=http://www.operaderouen.fr | email=info@operaderouen.fr | address=7 rue du Docteur-Rambert | lat=49.4399 | long=1.0894 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 98 50 98 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3527737| wikipedia=Rouen Opera House | lastedit=2017-08-28 | content=The Rouen Opera House, home of the Rouen Philharmonic Orchestra. }} * {{do | name=Théâtre des Deux Rives | alt= | url=http://www.cdn-normandierouen.fr | email=contact@cdn-normandierouen.fr | address=48 rue Louis Ricard | lat=49.44672 | long=1.10047 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 89 63 41 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-28 | content=A theatre founded in 1985, with a capacity of 208. }} * '''Football:''' [https://qrm.fr/ US Quevilly-Rouen] were relegated in 2024 and now play soccer in Championnat National, the third tier. Their home ground Stade Robert Diochon (capacity 8300) is in Le Petit-Quevilly, 5 km south across the river from city centre. ==Buy== [[File:Île Lacroix (5727828409).jpg|thumb|A view of Île Lacroix from the Cathedral.]] *[[Markets|Market]] on Saturdays and Sundays at Place Saint Marc. Fresh produce, flowers, bric-a-brac and [[antiques shopping|antiques]]. Well worth a visit. Closes early on Sunday, approx at 13:00. *[[Cheese|Cheeses]], [[Meat|meats]], [[fruit and vegetables]] can be bought at the Vieux Marche. A larger selection, as well as used [[clothes|clothing]], [[furniture]], and knick-knacks can be found at the Place de Saint Marc. ===Markets=== * {{buy | name=Marché des saveurs | alt= | url= | email= | address=Allée Eugène Boudin | lat=49.44221 | long=1.09362 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-18:00, second and fourth Saturday of the month | price= | lastedit=2017-08-28 | content=Sells foods of all types, [[cakes]], meat, cheese, etc. }} * {{buy | name=Marché à la brocante | alt= | url= | email= | address=Allée Eugène Boudin | lat=49.44221 | long=1.09362 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-18:00, first and third Saturday of the month | price= | lastedit=2017-08-28 | content=Flea market. }} * {{buy | name=Marché de la Calende | alt= | url= | email= | address=Place de la Calende | lat= 49.43961| long=1.09479 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu F 08:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-08-28 | content=Market selling all sorts of food. }} * {{buy | name=Marché de l'Ile Lacroix | alt= | url= | email= | address= Avenue Jacques Chastellain| lat=49.43444 | long= 1.09885| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W 08:00-12:30; Sa (vegetables) 08:00-12:30 | price= | lastedit=2017-08-28 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Marché des Emmurées | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cours Clémenceau | lat=49.43417 | long=1.08913 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Tu Sa 06:30-18:00; Th 07:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-08-28 | content=Covered market, selling food and flowers. Flea market on Thursday. }} ===Shopping centres=== * {{buy | name=Centre Saint Sever | alt= | url=https://www.rouenstsever.com | email=info@rouenstsever.com | address=Avenue de Bretagne | lat=49.4299 | long=1.0837 | directions= | phone=+33 2 32 81 20 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:30-20:00 | price= | wikidata=Q2944880 | lastedit=2017-08-28 | content=Shopping centre opened in 1978, with many shops, including international chains like Foot Locker and H&M. }} * {{buy | name=Les Docks 76 | alt= | url=https://www.docks76.com | email=info@docks76.com | address=Boulevard Ferdinand de Lesseps | lat=49.4457 | long=1.06707 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 89 88 43 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-20:00 | price= | image=Entree Docks76 Rouen.JPG | wikidata=Q3033471 | lastedit=2017-08-28 | content=Even more shops, including international brands like Hollister, H&M and Toys R Us. }} ==Eat== [[File:Rouen France Panoramic-View-02.jpg|thumb|A view of the Seine in Rouen from La Corniche.]] Most of the tourist restaurants are located near the Eglise Sainte Jenne D'Arc. They are likely to be open Sunday when most other restaurants are closed. There are also shops, markets, and patisseries in that square and scattered throughout Rouen to purchase food. Many are open Sunday as well. ===Budget=== ====City centre==== * {{eat | name=La Cantine | alt= | url=http://lacantinerouen.wix.com/la-cantine-rouen | email=contact@lacantine.fr | address=192 Rue Eau de Robec | lat=49.44154 | long=1.09963 | directions= | phone=+33 6 62 81 56 74 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Vegetarian restaurant on a pedestrian street. }} * {{eat | name=La Rose des Vents | alt= | url= | email= | address=33 Pl. de la Basse Vieille Tour | lat=49.4379419 | long= 1.0943570 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=L'Ascot | alt= | url= | email= | address=1 Rue de la Vicomte | lat=49.4408282 | long=1.0883217 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Un Grain de... | alt= | url= | email= | address=24 Rue Cauchoise | lat=49.4439809 | long=1.0878614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Quick Grill | alt= | url= | email= | address=8 Rue Percière | lat=49.4429286 | long=1.0917821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Les Cousines | alt= | url= | email= | address=16 Pl. du Lieutenant Aubert | lat=49.4413745 | long=1.0989993 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Crêperie Mont Saint Michel | alt= | url= | email= | address=6 Rue des Augustins | lat=49.4380766 | long=1.1000745 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} ====Saint-Sever==== * {{eat | name=Ikaze Henriette | alt= | url= | email= | address=12 Rue Malouet | lat=49.4326782 | long=1.0912480 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant La Dune | alt= | url= | email= | address=10 Pl. des Emmurées | lat=49.4336301 | long=1.0875462 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Etoile du sud | alt= | url= | email= | address=12 Pl. des Emmurées | lat=49.4336849 | long=1.0872606 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Le Sixième sens | alt= | url=https://le-sixiemesens.fr/ | email=contact@le-sixiemesens.fr | address=2 Rue Thomas Corneille | lat=49.443282 | long=1.086817 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 88 43 97 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Fancy restaurant near the Église Sainte-Jeanne-d'Arc. Typical French cuisine. Nice setting on busy weekends. }} * {{eat | name=Tarte Tatin | alt= | url= | email=latartetatin76@gmail.com | address=99, rue de la Vicomté | lat=49.441913 | long=1.089212 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 89 35 73 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Crêpe restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=La Petite Auberge | alt= | url=http://www.restaurant-petite-auberge.fr | email= | address=164 rue de Martainville | lat=49.439749 | long=1.099732 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 70 80 18 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu 12:00-13:30; W-Su 12:00-13:30, 19:15-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Traditional French restaurant, specialising in snails (''escargots''). }} * {{eat | name=Bistro Nova | alt= | url= | email= | address=29 Pl. du Lieutenant Aubert | lat=49.4415201 | long= 1.0988427 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Le Kitsch | alt= | url= | email= | address=10 Rue du Tambour | lat=49.4421438 | long=1.0910629 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Chez Nou | alt= | url= | email= | address=10 rue Percière | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-05-16 | content= }} ===Splurge === * {{eat | name= La Pêcherie | alt= | url=http://www.lapecherie.fr/fr | email= | address=29 Place de la Basse | lat=49.43786 | long=1.09435 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 88 71 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Tu-Sa 12:00-14:30, 19:30-22:30 | price=3-course set meal "Carte La Pêcherie": €45.50 (Aug 2017) | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=A seafood restaurant near the river and the Île Lacroix. }} * {{eat | name=Gill | alt= | url=https://www.gill.fr/en/ | email=gill@gill.fr | address=8 and 9 quai de la Bourse | lat=49.438572 | long=1.091104 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 71 16 14 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 12:00-13:45; 19:30-21:45 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content= Michelin two-star restaurant on the banks of the Seine. }} * {{eat | name=La Couronne | alt= | url=http://www.lacouronne.com.fr {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=contact@lacouronne.com.fr | address=31, place du Vieux Marché | lat=49.44278 | long=1.087617 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 71 40 90 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-05 | content=Classic French cuisine in a building from the 14th century. }} ==Drink== *{{drink | name=Emporium Galorium | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Rue Beauvoisine | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 71 76 95 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great student bar, home of Rouen's Erasmus population. }} *Hotel de Bourgtheroulde has a beautiful artistic bar with cocktails ranging from €9-13. * {{drink | name=Pub O'Kallaghan's | alt= | url=http://okallaghans.com {{dead link|June 2020|December 2020}} | email= | address=13 place du Général de Gaulle | lat=49.44260 | long=1.09797 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 71 46 55 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-28 | content=An Irish pub. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Alive Hotel de Quebec | alt= | url=http://www.hotel-rouen.com/en/ | email=contact@hotel-rouen.com | address=18-24, rue de Québec | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 70 09 38 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A clean, comfortable and friendly city centre hotel. It is modestly priced, despite being a few minutes walk from the river and cathedral. This hotel also has arrangements with several local restaurants and can organise "Soirées D'Etape", which include a room, breakfast and evening meal at a restaurant (the hotel has no restaurant of its own). }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Le Morand | alt= | url=http://www.morandhotel.com/?lang=en | email=contact@morandhotel.com | address=1 rue Morand | lat= | long= | directions=midway between the station and the cathedral | phone=+33 2 35714607 | tollfree= | fax=+33 2 35714626 | checkin=12:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=€50-60 | content=Quiet hotel. Delightful breakfast served in oak-beamed dining room. }} * {{sleep | name=Ferme du Coquetot B&B | alt= | url=http://giverny.org/hotels/coquetot/ | email= | address=46 rue du Coq, Bourg-Beaudouin | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Ferme du Coquetot is a B&B set on a farm 15 minutes from Rouen. The owners may invite you to see the milking and learn about the farm. Fresh farm products are available for dinner (table d'hotes on booking, €16 per person) or for breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Hôtel Kyriad Rouen Centre | alt= | url=http://www.kyriad-rouen-centre.fr/ | email=contact@kyriad-rouen.fr | address=14 quai Gaston Boulet | lat=49.441400 | long=1.081169 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 15 25 25 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-22 | content=Hotel overlooking the Seine, not far from the Panorama XXL. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Ermitage Bouquet Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.hotel-ermitagebouquet.com/en/index.html {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=contact@hotel-ermitagebouquet.com | address=58 rue Bouquet | lat=49.4501 | long=1.0892 | directions= | phone=+33 2 32 12 30 40 | tollfree= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=10:00 | price=€95-160 | content=Offers 10 rooms and 3 suites (some with fireplace), furnished in Charles X style with modern facilities (hydro shower or whirlpool bath, Wifi, air conditioning, electric shutters, etc.) The staff are very helpful. }} *{{sleep | name=Château du Bosc Theroulde | url=http://www.bb-normandy.com/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Route du Bosc Theroulde - 76710 Bosc Theroulde | lat=49.55 | long=1.116667 | directions= | phone = +33 2 35 81 35 54 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€80 | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=B&B 13 km from the city center,within easy access from the A-28-A29-A151 motorways, this is an elegant Napoleon III style building in a fully secured walled park of 4 ha. }}. * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bonaparte | alt= | url=http://www.hotel-bonaparte-rouen.fr/en/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=hotelbonaparterouen@gmail.com | address=3, Rue Jean Lecanuet | lat=49.4440 | long=1.0962 | directions=close to the Hotel de Ville | phone=+33 2 35 07 77 07 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=€74.50 for a double room | content=Comfortable, clean and friendly. parking in underground car park. Very close to town centre, Cathedral, restaurants shops. }} * {{sleep | name=Hôtel de la Cathédrale | alt= | url=http://www.hotel-de-la-cathedrale.fr/UK/ | email=contact@hotel-de-la-cathedrale.fr | address=12, rue St Romain | lat=49.44016 | long=1.09697 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 71 57 95 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=€95 for two people with a shower | lastedit=2017-08-20 | content=A hotel in a 17th-century building next to the cathedral. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Hotel de Bourgtheroulde | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.co.uk/hotels/travel/uroak-hotel-de-bourgtheroulde-autograph-collection/ | email= | address=15 Place de la Pucelle | lat=49.441992 | long=1.088267 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 14 50 50 | tollfree= | fax=+33 2 35 14 50 60 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Historical landmark, now a hotel and spa. }} ==Connect== ==Stay safe== ===Hospitals=== {{seealso|European Health Insurance Card}} [https://www.chu-rouen.fr/ CHU de Rouen] has five hospitals in the Rouen area. * {{listing | name=Hôpital Charles-Nicolle | alt= | url=https://www.chu-rouen.fr/hopital/hopital-charles-nicolle-rouen/ | email= | address= 43 rue Gambetta| lat=49.4409 | long=1.1069 | directions=TEOR lines T1, T2, T3 stop "CHU Charles-Nicolle" | phone=+33 2 32 88 89 90| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=This hospital has 1351 beds, which is more than half of the beds CHU de Rouen has. }} ==Cope== ===Consulates=== * {{flag|Denmark}} {{listing | name= Denmark| alt= | url= | email=eriesk@umgate.dk | address=66 Quai de Boisguilbert| lat=49.4426 | long=1.0767 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 88 54 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | type=vicinity | lastedit= | content= |image= }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | type=vicinity | name=Germany | alt= | url= | email=rouen@hk-diplo.de | address=8 rue Blaise Pascal | lat=49.428397 | long=1.084164 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 88 16 52 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Rouen deutsches Konsulat.jpg | content= }} * {{flag|Nepal}} {{listing | name= Nepal| alt= | url=http://www.consulat-nepal.org/ | email=consulat.nepal@wanadoo.fr | address=2 Rue Victor Morin, Mont Saint Aignan | lat=49.4550 | long=1.0907 | directions= | phone=+33 2 35 07 18 12 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | type=vicinity | lastedit= | content= }} ==Go next== * [[Dieppe]], a lovely seaside resort, 45 minutes away. The whole Norman countryside, coast, and the Seine valley are spectacular with beautiful peaceful green pastures and forests, white cliffs, and including such famous sites as the cliff-arches of Etretat. * An ideal half-day trip would include [[Les Andelys]], a picturesque village with an impressive castle just south of Rouen * Next stop could be the little 17th-century harbor of [[Honfleur]], {{km|90}} west * [[Le Havre]] and its modern architecture which belongs to the prestigious Unesco World Heritage List (regular trains running from Rouen)Visit Le Havre page on the site to get a better view of western Normandy * From Rouen station you can reach [[Bayeux]] and its impressive tapestry. It is a two-hour train ride and is only 30 minutes from the D-Day beaches. Additionally, busy Lille, chock full of museums and an enormous flea market in early September, lies to the North; about two hours on the train, {{EUR|30}} each way. * Vernon and Monet's home at [[Giverny]] are about 40 minutes away on the train (direction of Paris, less than {{EUR|20}}. {{routebox | image1=Autoroute française 13.svg | imagesize1=50 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Caen]] | minorl1=[[Le Havre]] | directionr1=SE | minorr1=[[Giverny]] | majorr1=[[Paris]] | caption1=Autoroute de Normandie }} {{geo|49.4412|1.0963}} {{IsPartOf|Seine-Maritime}} {{usablecity}} gjz6xthhsrbpu8brwjxfuzb5coz14op 0 30442 5091159 4871803 2025-07-11T02:54:34Z DaGizza 162256 /* See */ 5091159 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Saiki city, Oita prefecture Wikivoyage banner.jpg}} '''Saiki''' ({{lang|ja|佐伯}}) is the easternmost city in [[Kyushu]], the island's largest by area, and [[Oita (prefecture)|Ōita Prefecture]]'s fourth-largest by population. ==Understand== ===Tourist information site=== The local tourist association has a [https://www.visit-saiki.jp/ Japanese-only guide site]. ==Get in== === By plane === The nearest airport is '''[https://www.oita-airport.jp/en/ Ōita Airport]'''. Buses run six times a day to and from Cosmo Town, Ōtemae and Saiki Station, taking a little over two hours and costing ¥2880 (¥4940 return). Miyazaki Airport is accessible by train; see below. === By train === Saiki is on the '''Nippō Main Line'''. There are hourly ''Nichirin'' Limited Expresses, which will take you to [[Oita|Ōita]] (1 hour 5 minutes, ¥2630) via Usuki (30 minutes, ¥1700) or Miyazaki Airport (2 hours 20 minutes, ¥4680) via [[Nobeoka]] (1 hour, ¥2450) and [[Miyazaki]] (2 hours 10 minutes, ¥4560). There are three direct ''Sonic'', ''Nichirin'' and ''Nichirin Seagaia'' trains a day to [[Kitakyushu|Kokura]] (2 hours 45 minutes, ¥5570) for the San'yō Shinkansen, of which two come from [[Fukuoka|Hakata]] (3 hours 30 minutes, ¥7190). Otherwise, take a Sonic from either station to Ōita and change there. Local trains are less frequent, but will get you in from Ōita in about 1 hour 30 minutes for ¥1290, and from Usuki in 45 minutes and ¥560. Local trains to and from Nobeoka (1 hour 10 minutes, ¥1110) are so infrequent and inconveniently timed as to be practically nonexistent. There is a ''nimai-kippu'' which allows a return trip to Ōita within one month using Limited Expresses for ¥3900 (a saving of ¥1360). Another ''nimai-kippu'' allows return travel to any JR station in the Fukuoka City Area for ¥10,080 (saving ¥4300). All these trains are covered by the Japan Rail Pass and JR Kyūshū's All Kyūshū Area Pass, but not the Northern or Southern Kyūshū Area Pass. === By ferry === Saiki Port is a 10-minute walk or 5-minute drive north of Saiki Station. [http://sukumoferry.com/ Sukumo Ferry] runs three ferries a day to and from [[Sukumo]], taking 3 hours 10 minutes. Prices start at ¥2710. The ferry terminal at Sukumo is a 30-minute walk or 10-minute drive from Sukumo Station. This is the easiest way to reach most of [[Kochi (prefecture)|Kōchi Prefecture]]. With the possible exception of [[Uwajima]], a better way across the Bungo Channel to [[Ehime|Ehime Prefecture]] is to take the ferry from Usuki to Yawatahama. ==Get around== Most of the fun can be found in an area about 30 minutes walk or 10 minutes drive south of Saiki Station. Most buses from the station will take you towards Ōtemae for ¥140. ==See== * Saiki has a shrine on the top of '''Shakuma-san'''. The view is amazing and the history of the shrine is very interesting. 40 minutes drive from central Saiki: head west through Yayoi along Route 10, then turn right and go up the Shakuma Skyline. There are two car parks to choose from, from where it is up to 45 minutes to the top up a flight of hundreds of stone steps. On New Year's Eve, so many people flock to the summit to see the first sunrise of the year that the Skyline is closed to cars. * You can also walk up '''Shiroyama''' (literally 'Castle Hill'). This is a place that locals always recommend you to go to. It has the ruins of the very old Saiki Castle, plus an excellent view of the Banjo river, harbor, ocean, and city--especially at sunset. * Another thing that is done around the beginning of June throughout this month is watching '''hotaru''' (fireflies). It's an amazing sight. The best place for hotaru watching is at Honjo town. * The '''Street of History and Literature'''. Having seen many a year pass, the white walls of this street guard the memories of this old castle town. ** {{see|name=Kyūshintei|alt=|url=|email=|address=3-13 Jōka-nishimachi|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=+81 972 24-3905|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00-17:00, closed Mondays|price=|lastedit=2018-05-29|content=An old-style tearoom which serves visitors traditional Japanese green tea}} * Walking along the '''Banjo River'''. There is a very nice walkway on either side of the Banjo River where you can see many eagles, which will take food from you if you aren't careful. * {{see | name=Banjō Osakana-kan | alt=番匠おさかな館 | url=https://www.michinoeki-yayoi.com/banjou-osakanakan | email= | address=898-1 Yayoi Ōaza Kami-ogura | lat= | long= | directions=at the Michi-no-eki on Route 10. If you don't have a car, there are 14 buses a day taking about 20 minutes and ¥380 | phone=+81 972 46-5922 | tollfree= | hours=10:00-17:00 (last admission 16:45), closed on the 2nd Tuesday of the month | price=¥300 | lastedit=2018-05-29 | content=There is also a store which sells local souvenirs, food, and handicrafts and a public bath that has very nice facilities. Feeding time in the early evening is the best time to go see it, because they have some types of exotic fish which become more excited and active when they realize that they can get some fish heads in their bellies. }} ==Do== ==Buy== * At '''Cosmo Town''', near the expressway exit and to the northwest of the main part of town, you can find several stores. High school students also come here after school to go to McDonalds or the game center. * {{buy|name=La Vie Douce|alt=|url=http://www.umedakagu.com/|email=|address=1-10 Uchimachi|directions=|lat=|long=|phone=+81 972 22-0064|tollfree=|fax=|hours=10:00-19:00, closed Thursdays|price=|lastedit=2018-05-29|content=A cute store in the covered walking arcade next to Umaimon-dori. It has a nice selection of handicrafts, natural bath and body products, clothes, and gift items.}} * {{buy|name=Kishōka|alt=吉祥華|url=|email=|address=3-8-17 Ōtemachi|directions=|lat=|long=|phone=+81 972 20-3088|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00-20:00|price=|lastedit=2018-05-29|content=A new cake and pastry store with both Western and Japanese sweets.}} ==Eat== In Saiki everyone loves sushi, and you will find sushi almost anywhere. Sashimi is also everywhere. * '''The Umaimon-dori''' is a street full of quality seafood restaurants serving a variety of fresh seafood caught by the local fisherman of this marine industry town. It is 5 min by bus from Saiki Railway Station. Get off at Chuodori Icchome Bus stop. * {{eat | name=Costa Rica | alt=こすたりか | url=http://costarica-saiki.com/ | email= | address=7-4 Uchimachi | lat= | long= | directions=On Umaimon Dori | phone=+81 972 23-0582 | tollfree= | hours=12:00-23:00, closed Tuesdays | price= | lastedit=2018-05-29 | content=A little coffee shop with good food, such as pizza and Japanified spaghetti. (It's not very Costa Rican, but at least it's different.). }} ==Drink== * '''Shin-machi''' and '''Umaimon-dori''' are popular streets for drinking and eating. They have many izakayas and bars. * '''Pub Chaya''' (ぱぶ茶屋, 5-15 Uchimachi, +81 972 24-0100) is an excellent izakaya with good deals for beer pitchers. Most food dishes cost ¥400-800. Nasu (eggplant) gyoza and chicken nanban are a couple of favorites. Located across the street from Saiki Central Hotel, near Umaimon-dori, on the second floor and up outside stairs. * '''Bacchus''' (3-17 Uchimachi, +81 972 22-5507, 18:00-02:00, closed Mondays) is located between Umaimon-dori and Shin-machi on a second floor. It has a good dart board and reasonably priced mixed drinks. ==Sleep== ==Go next== * [[Usuki]] * [[Bungoono]] * [[Tsukumi]] * [[Taketa]] * [[Oita]] * [[Nobeoka]] * [[Hinokakage]] * [[Kadogawa]] * [[Hyuga]] {{routebox | image1=JR Nippo icon.png | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Kitakyushu]] | minorl1=[[Oita]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Kagoshima]] | minorr1=[[Miyazaki]] | image2=Higashikyushu Expwy Route Sign.svg | imagesize2=100 | directionl2=N | majorl2=[[Oita]] | minorl2=Usuki | directionr2=S | majorr2=[[Miyazaki]] | minorr2=[[Nobeoka]] }} {{geo|32.9667|131.9000}} {{IsPartOf|Oita (prefecture)}} {{outlinecity}} narclu55dp4qn42zqmpbdhr3x3axc86 0 30830 5091124 5038123 2025-07-11T01:22:31Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Oktyabrsky district */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091124 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Voronezh park in Samara banner.jpg}} {{otheruses}} [[Image:Iversk monast Samara.JPG|thumb|300px|Iversky Convent]] '''Samara''' ([[Russian phrasebook|Russian]]: Сама́ра ''suh-MAH-ruh''), the sixth largest city in [[Russia]] and capital of an [[Samara Oblast|eponymous region]], lies on the [[Volga Region|Volga River]] in European Russia. It is a major economic, industrial and cultural centre and has a population of over 1,164,000. ==Understand== Samara was founded in 1586 with the construction of a Russian fortress on the Volga. However, settlement there had been mentioned since at least the 14th century. During World War II, Samara, then named Kuibyshev, was the second capital of USSR. The city's growth was stimulated during the war due to its proximity to Moscow but distance from the war zone; several government offices were evacuated to Kuibyshev when Moscow was under threat. The post-war development of the Volga-Urals oilfield also helped. Kuibyshev reverted to being Samara in 1991. {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = -7.8 | febhigh = -6.8 | marhigh = -0.4 | aprhigh = 11.8 | mayhigh = 20.7 | junhigh = 24.9 | julhigh = 26.2 | aughigh = 24.1 | sephigh = 17.8 | octhigh = 8.7 | novhigh = -0.6 | dechigh = -5.4 | janlow = -14.2 | feblow = -13.6 | marlow = -7.4 | aprlow = 2.8 | maylow = 9.7 | junlow = 14.6 | jullow = 16.3 | auglow = 14.1 | seplow = 8.9 | octlow = 2.2 | novlow = -5 | declow = -10.9 | janprecip = 46 | febprecip = 35 | marprecip = 33 | aprprecip = 39 | mayprecip = 32 | junprecip = 58 | julprecip = 64 | augprecip = 52 | sepprecip = 45 | octprecip = 52 | novprecip = 54 | decprecip = 51 | description = Average of Samara }} As a cultural centre, Samara has attracted several famous creative Russians. The likes of writers Tolstoy and Gorky, painters Ilya Repin, Vasily Surikov and Ivan Aivazovsky, and revolutionaries Michael Frunze and Vladimir Lenin have all lived in the city. Even Alexandre Dumas visited in 1858, he describes his whole journey, including his impressions of Samara, in ''From Paris to Astrakhan''. ==Get in== === By plane === * {{listing | type=go | name=Kurumoch International Airport | alt={{IATA|KUF}}, Международный аэропорт «Курумоч» | url=http://airport.samara.ru | email= | address= | lat=53.501667 | long=50.155 | directions=by taxi; bus 78 to Barboshinoy (Барбошиной поляны); marshrutka: 392 and 406. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kurumoch International Airport | image=Аэропорт Курумоч.jpg | wikidata=Q950834 | content=Flights from [[Dubai]], [[Frankfurt]] and [[Prague]]. Domestic, there are up to ten departures daily from [[Moscow]] as well as direct flights from [[Saint Petersburg]], [[Krasnoyarsk]], [[Perm]], [[Rostov-on-Don]] and [[Vladivostok]]. }} === By bus === * {{listing|type=go | image= |name=Bus Station |alt=Центральный автовокзал |url=http://avokzal63.ru/ |email=avias@avokzal63.ru |address=Ulitsy Avrory (улицa Авроры) 207 |lat=53.21660 |long=50.18937 |directions=Ulitsy Avrory and Moskovskogo shosse corner (улицы Авроры и Московского шоссе.) |phone=+7 846 224-1515, +7 846 224-2554|fax=|price=|content=A cheaper alternative is to travel by overnight buses which are available from nearby cities such [[Nizhny Novgorod]], '''Perm''' and '''Moscow'''. Bus to [[Yerevan]] (Ереван) }} === By train === [[Image:SamaraVokzal.JPG|thumb|250px|Samara's train station is a clear sign of its oil wealth]] Almost all trains connecting with [[Siberia]] and [[Russian Far East]] calls here. There are at least five departures every day from '''Moscow''', including the ''Zhiguli'' deluxe train. Journey times varies between 13-20 hours depending on which train. There are daily trains from [[Saint Petersburg]], with the fastest service that runs every second day taking just 18 hours. Overnight trains arrives from [[Yekaterinburg]] too. * {{go | name=Samara railway station | alt=Самара-Пассажирская | url= | email= | address=Komsomolskaya Square (Комсомольской площадь) | lat= | long= | directions=Intersection of Ulitsa L'va Tolstogo and Ulitsa Sportivnoy | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q20821474 | lastedit=2020-08-26 | content= }} === By boat === * {{listing|type=go | image=Samara port.jpg | name=Port of Samara| alt=Речном вокзал| url= | email= | address=Ul.Maksima Gor'kogo (ул.Максима Горького), 82| lat=53.18594 | long=50.07827 | directions=In the Downtown| phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} === By car === If traveling by own car, Samara is along the M5 Highway, also known as ''Ural Highway''. Distance from Moscow is just over 1000 km. ==Get around== {{mapframe}} {{Mapshape|wikidata=Q2106|type=geoline|stroke=#ff0000|stroke-width=4|stroke-opacity=1}} ===By metro=== The '''[http://metrosamara.ru/ Samara Metro]''' is a convenient way of zipping across the city. However, it remains underdeveloped and comprises one line that runs east to west. A trip costs {{RUB|23}} or {{RUB|21}} if you use a transport e-card. [[Image:Samara metro kaart.png|thumb|250px|Samara metro map]] * {{listing | type=around | name=Alabinskaya | alt=Алабинская | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.209689 | long=50.134417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alabinskaya (Samara Metro) | image=Alabinskaya (Алабинская) 5.jpg | wikidata=Q4060383 | content=Opened in 2015. }} * {{listing|type=around | name=Rossiyskaya | alt=Российская | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.211981 | long=50.148611 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=06:00-24:00 | price= | wikipedia=Rossiyskaya (Samara Metro) | image=Rossiyskaya (Российская) (7056154875).jpg | wikidata=Q2428799 | content=Opened in 2007. }} * {{listing|type=around | name=Moskovskaya | alt=Московская | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.202806 | long=50.159917 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Moskovskaya (Samara Metro) | image=Moskovskaya metro station entrance (Вход на станцию метро Московская) (6917281140).jpg | wikidata=Q2180438 | content=Opened in 2002. }} * {{listing|type=around | name=Gagarinskaya | alt=Гагаринская | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.200278 | long=50.177472 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Gagarinskaya (Samara Metro) | image=Gagarinskaya (Samara Metro 2).jpg | wikidata=Q2424871 | content=Opened in 1993. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Sportivnaya | alt=Спортивная | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.200806 | long=50.200028 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sportivnaya (Samara Metro) | image=Sportivnaya (Спортивная) (7079896341).jpg | wikidata=Q2110830 | content=Opened in 1993. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Sovetskaya | alt=Советская | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.201767 | long=50.221667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sovetskaya (Samara Metro) | image=Sovetskaya (Советская) (6937494876).jpg | wikidata=Q1881804 | content=Opened 1992. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Pobeda | alt=Победа | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.206369 | long=50.235061 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Pobeda (Samara Metro) | image=Pobeda (Победа) (7087703871).jpg | wikidata=Q2288199 | content=Opened in 1987. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Bezymyanka | alt=Безымянка | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.212578 | long=50.247478 | directions=Sport Palace | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bezymyanka (Samara Metro) | image=Bezymanka (Безымянка) (7090023139).jpg | wikidata=Q2424859 | content=Opened in 1987. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Kirovskaya | alt=Кировская | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.211417 | long=50.268278 | directions=Kirovsky Market | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kirovskaya (Samara Metro) | image=Kirovskaya (Кировская) (7099767469).jpg | wikidata=Q2423374 | content=Opened in 1987. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Yungorodok | alt=Юнгородок | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.212472 | long=50.2825 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Yungorodok (Samara Metro) | image=Yungorodok (Samara Metro).jpg | wikidata=Q2328158 | content=The only above-ground station. Opened in 1987. }} ==See== *The beach by Volga in the city center. *Visit the space museum. *Visit the shopping street Leningradskaya. === Old Samara === [[File:115 Kuybisheva st Samara.JPG|thumb|Church of St. George]] [[File:Pokrov v.jpg|thumb|St. Basil's Cathedral]] * {{see | image= | name= Leningradskaya ulitsa | alt=Ленинградская улица | address= | lat=53.18728| long=50.091981 | directions= | content= Pedestrian Street in the Old Town. }} * {{see |image=115 Kuybisheva st Samara.JPG | name=Church of St. George | alt=Лютеранская кирха | url= | email= | address=Ul. Kuybysheva (ул. Куйбышева), 115—117 | lat= 53.189904 | long=50.09087 | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Wooden house | alt=Fakhverkovyy dom, Фахверковый дом | url= | email= | address=Ul. Frunze (ул. Фрунзе), 75А, from yard | lat= 53.18508 | long= 50.09305 | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see |image=Samara klodt.JPG | name=Klodt Manor | alt=Children's Art Gallery. Особняк Клодта| lat = 53.1933684 |long = 50.0933218| url= | email= | address=Ul. Kuybysheva (ул. Куйбышева), 139 | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It was built in 1898 by architect Shcherbachov for merchant Ivan Klodta. }} * {{see | image=Alexander 2 Samara.jpg| name=Revolution Square| alt=Ploshchad' Revolyutsii, Площадь Революции| address= | directions=Intersection of Ulitsa Ventseka and Kuybysheva | lat=53.1855804| long=50.0876677 | url= | content=In the center stands a statue of Lenin. }} * {{see |image=Pokrov v.jpg | name=Pokrov Cathedral | alt=Pokrovskiy sobor, Покровский собор | url= | email= | address=Ul. Leninskaya (ул. Ленинская), 75А | lat= 53.18612 | long= 50.10778 | directions=Ul. Nekrasovskoy corner| phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Orthodox church. Built in 1857-1861. Architecture the style: the Moscow church architecture of the 17th century. }} * {{see |image=Самарская синагога 1.jpg | name=Synagogue | alt=Синагога | url= | email= | address=Ul. Sadovaya (ул. Садовая), 49 | lat=53.18397 | long=50.10239 | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours=Under reconstruction. | price= | content=Beautiful building. Choral Synagogue. Built in the Moorish style, in 1908 by architect Kleinerman }} * {{see | image=Samarskaya filarmonia.JPG | name=Philharmonic Hall | alt=Filarmoniya, Самарской Филармония | url= | email= | address=Ulitsa Frunze (ул. Фрунзе), 141 | lat=53.19152| long=50.09499 | directions= at the intersection of Street Leo Tolstoy and Street Frunze. | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This building was built in the 1980s on the site of the former "Circus Olympus". There are interesting concerts. }} * {{see | name=Shveik, the Good Soldier | alt=Bravyy soldat Shveyk, Бравый солдат Швейк | url= | email= | address=Ulitsa Nekrasovskoy and Ulitsa Kuibysheva cnr (улиц Некрасовской и Куйбышева) | lat=53.19033 | long=50.09102 | directions= | phone= | content=Bronze sculpture. Shveik sitting on a barrel of gunpowder and smoking a pipe, a small bronze dog sits beside him.}} * {{see | name=Stalin's Bunker | alt=Бункер Сталина | url= | email= | address=Ulitsa Frunze (ул. Фрунзе), 167 | lat=53.19664 | long=50.09783 | directions=Next to Chapaev Monument and Samara Drama Theatre | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Bunker Stalina.JPG | wikidata=Q495206 | content=A bunker in which Stalin had never been, for some reason is very popular among tourists. Book a tour in advance. }} * {{see |image=Kostel Samara 2.jpg | name=Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus | alt=Храм Пресвятого Сердца Иисуса | url= | email= | address=Ulitsa Frunze (ул. Фрунзе), 157 | lat= 53.19374 | long= 50.09625 | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Roman Catholic Church. Beautiful building. One of the most photographed building in the city of Samara. }} * {{see |image=Самарский драм театр.jpg | name=Samara Drama Theatre | alt=Самарский драмтеатр | url= | email= | address=Ploschad (Square) Chapaeva (площадь Чапаева), 1 | lat= 53.197627 | long=50.097474 | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Drama Theatre built in the style of "Russian Baroque" - one of the most beautiful buildings in the old Samara. Sightseeing point behind the theatre. }} * {{see | image=|name=Chapaev Monument |alt=памятник Чапаеву |url= |email=|address=Chapaeva square (пл. Чапаева), |lat= |long= |directions=Samara Drama Theatre |phone= |hours=|price= |content=Behind the theater is a small Pushkin's Garden with a monument in honor of the great Russian poet. A good observation point to the Volga River. }} * {{see | image=110 Kuybisheva st Samara.JPG |name=Former Consulates of Australia |alt= |url= |email=|address=110 Kuybisheva street (улица Куйбышева) |lat=53.1917 | long=50.0911|directions= |phone= |hours=|price= |content= This building was the Australian consulate during the II World War }} * {{see | image=151 Kuybisheva st Samara.JPG |name=Former Embassy of the United Kingdom |alt= |url= |email=|address=151 Kuybisheva st (улица Куйбышева) |lat=53.1958 | long=50.0950 |directions= |phone= |hours=|price= |content=This building was the UK embassy during the II World War }} * {{see | image=Чапаевская, 80.jpg |name=Former Embassy of Japan |alt= |url= |email=|address=Chapayevskaya (Чапаевская), 80|lat=53.1857 | long=50.0925 |directions=tram 1, 5, 15, 16, 18, 20 to 'Чапаевская улица' |phone= |hours=|price= |content=Now Municipal Children's Music School }} === Volga Embankment === [[File:Samara pivzavod.JPG|thumb|Zhigulevsky Brewery]] * {{see | image=Samara pivzavod.JPG | name=Zhigulevsky Brewery | alt=Zhigulovskiy pivovarennyy zavod, Жигулёвский пивоваренный завод | url= | email= | address=Prospekt Volzhskiy (Волжский пр.) 4 | lat=53.20069| long=50.098539 | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price=| description=One of the oldest breweries in Russia. It was built in 1881 by Austrian Alfred Philippovich von Vakano. Zhigulevskoye famous beer producing in this factory. - Excursions into the plant is not available. - You can try fresh beer at the Bar "On the bottom" (бар «На дне») or Restaurant "Our Vakano" (ресторант «У Вакано»). }} * {{see |image= | name=Samara radiator monument | alt=Памятник отопительной батарее, Самарская ГРЭС | url= | email= | address=Prospekt Volzhskiy (Волжский пр.) 8 |lat=53.20272 |long=50.10339 | directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the wall of the thermal power plant (Самарская ГРЭС) is this bronze composition made by sculptor Nicholas Kukleva. It depicts a cat that baskes on the windowsill above the radiator. }} * {{see |image=Iversky1.jpg | name=Iverskiy nunnery | alt=Иверский женский монастырь | url= | email= | address=Prospekt Volzhskiy (Волжский пр.) | lat= 53.19925 | long= 50.09847 | directions=opposite Zhigulevsky brewery | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Orthodox convent. }} * {{see | name=Monument of Governor Zasekin| alt=Памятник воеводе Засекину | url= | email= | address= | lat= 53.2101| long= 50.1184| directions= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Equestrian statue of the first governors of the Samara. }} === Oktyabrsky district === * {{see | name=Square of Fame | alt=Ploshchad' Slavy, Площадь Славы | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.203385 | long=50.1104879 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Here is a tall 'Monument Aerospace Workers' (памятник рабочим авиакосмической промышленности). Also on the square is an eternal flame. It is memorial of those who were killed in the war. - There is a large building, the Administration of the Samara region. The Square offers 'magnificent view' on the embankment of the Volga, }} * {{listing | image= | name= Victory Garden | alt=Сквер Победы | url= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Next to Square of Fame| content=There are fountains. }} * {{listing | image= | name=Samarskaya Square | alt=Samarskaya ploshchad, Самарская площадь | url= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=next to Square of Fame and Victory Garden | content=lots of trees, bust of Marshal Ustinov. }} * {{see |image= Samara da4a.jpg | name=Dacha Golovkin | alt=House with elephants, Дача Головкина, Дом со слонами | address=Ulitsa Sovetskoy Armii (улица Советской Армии), 292| directions= |lat=53.247239 |long=50.173539 | url= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Built in the early 20th century, in style of Viennese Secession. Built to the merchant and artist, Konstantin Golovkin. The elephants' sculptures can be seen from the side of the Volga. }} * {{see|lat = 53.2148512 |long = 50.1847744 |image= Panor-freg.jpg | name=Elephant and friends | alt=«У слона» | address=Ul. Avrory and Moskovskogo shosse (ул. Авроры и Московского шоссе) | directions= напротив Центрального автовокзала и Ботанического сада | url= | hours= | price= | content=Sculptural composition: small bronze figures: Elephant, Telephone, Crocodile, Monkey, Gazelle - by the famous poem Chukovskiy characters. }} * {{see | image= |name=Sacred Heart of Jesus Roman Catholic Church |alt= |url=http://www.catholicsamara.ru/ |email=|address=157 Frunze St.|lat= |long= |directions=Bus: 34 to stop 'ул. Фрунзе/ул. Красноармейская'; 37, 46, 47 to stop 'Филармония'; 61 to stop 'Струковский парк', Tram: 3, 15, 16, 20 to stop ' ул. Фрунзе/ул. Красноармейская', Marshrutka: 34, 207, 226, 240 to stop 'ул. Фрунзе/ул. Красноармейская'; 37, 46, 47, 259, 295 to stop 'Филармония', 61, 230, 232, 257, 297 to stop 'Струковский парк/ул. Фрунзе' |phone= |hours=Tu-Su 09:00-13:00 and 15:00-18:30 |price= |content= }} === Promyshlennyy rayon (Industrial district) === [[File:IL-2 samara.jpg|thumb|IL-2 aircraft]] * {{see |image=IL-2 samara.jpg | name=Monument to the aircraft IL-2 | alt=Памятник самолёту-штурмовику ИЛ-2 | url= | email= | address=Intersection Prospekt Kirova and Shosse Moskovskovo (перекрёсток пр. Кирова и Московского шоссе) |lat=53.25108|long=50.22262 | directions=At the entrance to Samara on M5 Hwy. There is a traffic circle with no pedestrian crossings to the very monument, so approach it is not easy, but easy to drive. | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | description=This is a real plane, which made ​​for an aircraft factory (nearby) No.18, during the Great Patriotic War, It was participated in the fighting. Shooted in the Murmansk region, after the war found sunken in the swamp. In the evening, the monument is lighted. }} * {{see |image=Samara mosque.JPG | name=Great Mosque | alt=Sobornaya mechet, Соборная мечеть | url= | email= | address=Ul. Stara-Zagora (ул. Стара-Загора), 54 | lat=53.22978 | long=50.20718 | directions=Near to the Park Gagarin. | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | description=Erected in the 1990s. The prayer hall capacity is 1000 people. The height of minaret is 61m, and the diameter of dome is 13.5m. }} === Krasnoglinskiy rayon === * {{see |image= | name=Viewpoint 'Helipad' | alt=Vertolyotnaya ploshchadka, Вертолётная площадка | url= | email= | address= | directions=Krasnoglinsky rayon,Upravlencheskiy quarter (в посёлке Управленческий). From the train station take bus №50 further circa one km walk |lat=53.3440057 |long =50.19775 | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Observation platform on the high bank of the Volga, from where, on a clear day, offers a great view of the Samara Bend and the coastline of the city of Samara. }} * {{see | image= |name=Krasnaya Glinka Ski complex|alt=Горнолыжный комплекс Красная Глинка |url=http://krasnaya-glinka.ru/ |email=|address=3rd quarter, 37, (3-й квартал, 37, стр. 1, пос. Красная Глинка)) |lat=53.38973 |long=50.17283 |directions=north about 12 km, from River Port take marshrutka 232. From Krasnoarmeyskya street /от ул. Красноармейской/, near the train station, take bus 50 to stop «Звезда»; from «Барбошина поляна» take bus 50, 78, 79 |phone=+7 846 973-96-95 |hours=|price= |content=A small hill. Great place for the beginner skiers and snowboarders. Season from December to early March. }} === Museums === [[File:Museum of war history, Samara.jpg|thumb|Military History Museum]] [[File: Aleksey Nikolayevich Tolstoy's museum - 3.jpg|thumb|]] * {{see | image=Museum of war history, Samara.jpg |name=Military History Museum |alt=Военно-исторический музей | url= | email= | address=Ul. Shostakovicha, (ул. Шостаковича), 1 | lat=53.1965 | long=50.098471 | directions= | phone=+7 846 332-09-70 |hours=|price= |content= }} * {{see | name=Children's Art Gallery | alt=Детская картинная галерея | url=https://chilgall.wixsite.com/main | email= | address=Ul. Kuibysheva (ул. Куйбышева), 139 | lat=53.19341 | long=50.09311 | directions=Tram 3, 15, 16, 18, 20 to stop 'Филармония/ Улица Льва Толстого' | phone=+7 846 332-43-98 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | image= |name=Frunze House-Museum |alt=Дом-музей М. В. Фрунзе |url=http://alabin.ru/ |email=|address=Ulitsa Frunze (улица Фрунзе), 114 |lat=53.19122 | long=50.09343 |directions=Tram 3, 15, 16, 18, 20 to stop 'Филармония/ Улица Льва Толстого' |phone= |hours=W Sa 10:00-18:00 |price= |content= }} * {{see | image=Дом Ленина в Самаре.jpg |name=House-Museum of Ulyanov family |alt=Дом-музей семьи Ульяновых |url=http://alabin.ru/ |email=|address=Leninskaya (ул. Ленинская), 131-135 |lat= |long= |directions= |phone= |hours=10-17 |price= |content= }} * {{see | image=Alabina museum, delphic games staff.jpg |name=Regional Museum |alt=Краеведческий музей им. Петра Ала́бина |url=http://alabin.ru/ |email=|address=Leninskaya (ул. Ленинская), 142 |lat=53.1928 | long=50.1091 |directions= |phone= |hours=10-18 |price= |content= }} * {{see | image=Aleksey Nikolayevich Tolstoy's museum - 3.jpg |name= Aleksey Nikolayevich Tolstoy's museum|alt=Литературно-мемориальный музей А. М. Горького, Музей-усадьба Алексея Николаевича Толстого |url= http://samlitmus.ru/ |email=|address=Frunze (ул. Фрунзе), 155 |lat=53.194094 |long= 50.095722 |directions= |phone= |hours=Tu W F-Su 10:00-18:00, Th 12:00-20:00 |price= |content= }} * {{see | name=Museum-House of Alexandra Kurlina | alt=Особняк Александры Курлино́й | url=http://alabin.ru/ | email= | address=( Красноармейская улица/ улица Фрунзе,) 159 | lat=53.194175 | long=50.096325 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Dom Kurlinoy.JPG | content= }} * {{see | name=Museum of the History of the Kuibyshev Railroad | alt=Музей истории Куйбышевской железной дороги | url=http://rzd-expo.ru/museums/kuibyshev_railway_museum/ | email= | address=Komsomolskaya Square ( Комсомольская пл. ул. Литвинова, 323?) | lat=53.1865 | long=50.1201 | directions=near the train station | phone=+7 846 303-46-55 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see |image=Raketa Samara.jpg | name=Raketa Soyuz and Space Museum| alt= Ракета «Союз» и музей «Самара космическая» |lat=53.212686 |long =50.145249 | url= http://www.samaracosmos.ru/| email= | address=Prosp. Lenina (пр. Ленина), 21| directions=metro Rossiyskaya «Российская» | phone= | fax= | hours=Tu-F 10:00-18:00, Sa till 17:00 | price= | content=A real rocket is set on Lenin Avenue. The museum exhibits satellites Photos, spacesuits of astronaut. }} * {{see | image=R-11 rocket.jpg |name=Air and Space Museum |alt=Музей авиации и космонавтики |url=http://museum.ssau.ru/ |email=|address=Moskovskoye shosse (Московское шоссе), 34, corp. № 3, Samara Aerospace University |lat=53.2122 | long=50.1772 |directions= |phone= |hours=M-F 09:00-17:00 |price= |content= }} * {{see | image= |name=Samara Art Museum |alt=Художественный музей |url=http://www.artmus.ru/ |email=|address=Kuybisheva (ул. Куйбышева), 92 |lat=53.1894 | long=50.0899|directions= |phone= |hours=Daily 10:00-18:00 except Tu Th 13:00-21:00 |price= |content=Great collection of paintings. On the third floor oriental collection }} == Do == [[File:Avrora st. Samara.jpg|thumb|Shopping center Avrora]] [[File: ТЦ Вертикаль, Самара.jpg|thumb|Vertikal Plaza Shopping center]] Night life in Samara is quite joyful. The main dance clubs are: Beerja (Stock Exchange), KINUP, Zvezda (Star), Aura (The Aura), Postel (The Bed), Long Bar. There are many restaurants and bars in Samara. The pricing for clubbing are the same or even higher than in Europe and Americas, though not so high as in [[Moscow]]. *{{do | name=Study Russian at SSU | alt= | url=http://www.archive.samsu.ru/en/linguistic | email= | address=1, Ak.Pavlova 209 m/m, 443011 Samara, Russia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+7 846 2780908 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Study Russian while experiencing real Russian culture and traditions. Programmes for individual students and groups meeting particular needs. Certification of Russian as a Foreign Language at different levels. }} * {{do | image=Dvorets legatletiki zateja.jpg | name=Sport Palace | alt=Дворец спорта Авиакор, Дворец легкой атлетики | url= | address=Ulitsa Fizkul'turnaya (улица Физкультурная), 101 | lat=53.2139 | long=50.2576 | directions= | content= }} * {{do | name=Park Imeni Yuriya Gagarina | alt=Парк имени Юрия Гагарина | url= | email= | address=ul. Sovetskoy Armii, 181В, Samara, Samarskaya oblast', Russia, 443090 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-05-06 | content=Ride the Ferris wheel, ice skate, watch ducks, etc. }} * '''Watch football''' at Cosmos (aka Solidarnost) Arena, built in 2018 to host group games of the FIFA World Cup. It's home to [http://www.kc-camapa.ru/ FC Krylia Sovetov Samara]{{Dead link|date=November 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, who play soccer in the Russian Premier League, the country's top tier, having won promotion in 2021. The stadium looks like a flying saucer; its capacity is just under 45,000. It's sited on the hills 10 km north of city centre, take tram 5 to Stadium stop. The club formerly played at Metallurg Stadium a little further south: its future main use has not been announced. ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=Farfor|alt=Доставка еды Farfor|url=https://samara.farfor.ru/|email=|address=st. Young Pioneers, d.166, bldg. A|lat=53.232791|long=50.260882|directions=|phone=+7-909-323-1111|tollfree=|hours=12:00-00:00|price=~{{RUB|500}} per person|lastedit=2023-08-11|content=Pizza, rolls, sushi, assorted sets, Japanese soups, salads, desserts, main dishes and drinks.}} * {{eat | name=Cafe Puri | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ulitsa Kuybysheva, 83 | lat=53.18563 | long=50.08903 | directions= | phone=+7 846 989-33-32 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-08-01 | content=Real Georgian food and wine. Note that only a few of the waiters are fluent in English. }} ==Drink== Drink original '''Zhigulyovskoye beer''' in '''Na dne''' bar or in posh '''U Vakano''' restaurant (both in ''Volzhskiy prospekt, 4'', near the old brewery). ==Sleep== *{{sleep | name=Renaissance Samara Hotel | url=http://www.renaissancesamara.com | email= | address=Novo-Sadovaya St. 162 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+7 846 277 8340 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=Smart business hotel. Bbroadband internet. 24-hour business center, gym, indoor pool, massage, bowling alley and billiards. Nearby is a beautiful park. 10 km from the hotel to the city center. }} * {{sleep | name=Ibis Samara Hotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6906/index.en.shtml | email=h6906@accor.com | address=Novo-Sadovaya St. 160 D | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+7 846 3396850 | tollfree= | fax=+7 (846) 3396851 | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=$70-110 | content=204 rooms. Air-conditioning. Safe deposit box in room. Parking. Wi-Fi. Restaurant, 24/7 bar. 3 conference rooms for seminars and conferences. Nearby is a beautiful park. 10 km from the hotel to the city center. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Hotel | url=http://www.hi-samara.ru/ | email= | address=Alekseya Tolstogo St. 99 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+7 846 372-70-00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=$150-500 | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | content=Smart business hotel in the historical and cultural center of the city, within 5 minutes walk from the Volga river embankment. Parking. Wi-Fi. Gym, indoor pool, massage & spa. 177 guest rooms, 8 Junior Suites, and a Presidential Suite. 9 technology equipped meeting rooms. Atrium restaurant, lobby cafe, 'Brasserie' restaurant, 'Red room' restaurant. Travel agency. }} ==Connect== ===Consulates=== * {{flag|Italy}} {{listing | name=Italy | alt=Honourary Consulate | url= | email=v-t@vgt.ru | address=Stepan Razin street, 71A | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+7 (846) 310-6401, +7 (846) 310-6403, +7 (846) 271-1820 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax=+7 (846) 310-6402 | hours=M-F 09:00-16:00 | price= | content= }} ===Visa Centers=== * {{flag|Bulgaria}} {{flag|Czech Republic}} {{flag|Denmark}} {{flag|Greece}} {{flag|Iceland}} {{flag|Malta}} {{flag|Spain}} {{listing | name=Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Greece, Iceland, Malta, and Spain | alt=EU Visa Center | url= | email= | address=Sadovaya street, 263 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:00-16:00 | price= | content= }} ==Go next== {{usablecity}} {{geo|53.2333|50.1667}} {{isPartOf|Samara Oblast}} p3wuzwerxbw83b20h8hy7rfb00vzw3g 0 31826 5091376 4981299 2025-07-11T11:35:09Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Eat */ move from region article 5091376 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Solvesborgsbron2 banner.jpg}} '''Sölvesborg''' is a small town in [[Blekinge]] with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. With its 8,800 inhabitants (2020), Sölvesborg includes Listerlandet, a peninsula with several charming fishing villages, e.g., Hällevik, Hörvik and Djupekås. Half an hour's boat ride outside Listerlandet lies the fabled island of Hanö. In the northern part of the municipality is Ryssberget with large contiguous beech forests. Sölvesborg is perhaps best known for the Sweden Rock Festival, which is held at the beginning of June every year in the village of Norje. ==Understand == In what was then Denmark, Sölvesborg was built to protect the castle, the ruins of which can be found just north of the city centre. The first castle was probably built at the beginning of the 13th century on an artificial hill between the bay and the road below Ryssberget. The castle was strategically located and under its protection the city of Sölvesborg grew. The city of Sölvesborg still has a well-preserved medieval street network, with Stortorget in the centre and eight perpendicular streets extending from the corners. Northwest of the square is the city's only preserved medieval building, St. Nicolai church, named after the patron saint of sailors. Construction of the church probably began at the end of the 13th century in the Gothic style. To the north of the church you can see traces of the Carmelite monastery that was built in 1486, following the Pope's instructions. Fifty years later the Reformation came and the days of the monastery were over. Through the peace of Roskilde in 1658, Sölvesborg became Swedish. During the beginning of the 18th century, the city lost its city privileges to Karlshamn, and instead of trade, the citizens of Sölves subsisted on agriculture, fishing, and keeping wild boar. At the end of the century, times got better and Sölvesborg became the city of glove and hat makers. During the 19th century, new industries emerged, mainly spirit exports. ===Tourist information === Sölvesborg's tourist office is at the City Hall. {{Phone|+46 456-100 88}}. {{Email|turistbyran@solvesborg.se}} ==Get in== {{mapframe | 56.044 | 14.575 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=12 }} Getting to Sölvesborg is easy. The connections with major cities as [[Malmö]] and [[Kristianstad]] are well, as you can either go by train, bus or just drive. ==Get around== Getting around is most easily done by walking. The city is fairly small. ==See== Sölvesborg and its surroundings have many ancient monuments, both above and below ground. On Mörby hill is a cairn from the older Bronze Age (approx. 1400 BC) with a wide view. In Lörby forest there is a burial field probably from the Iron Age and in Stiby the Stiby Sissa stone stands and "turns towards the smell of freshly baked bread". At St. Nicolai church there are two runestones, but not in their original place. ==Do== * '''Hanö Island''' is reached by ferry from Nogersund in Hällevik. * '''Football:''' [https://maif.se/ Mjällby AIF] play soccer in Allsvenskan, the top tier. Their home ground Strandvallen (capacity 6750) is in Hällevik. The playing season is April-Nov. * '''[http://www.swedenrock.com Sweden Rock Festival]''' — A big, open-air summer rock festival, taking place in Norje, close to Sölvesborg each year in June. ==Buy== ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Ritz Conditori och Bageri | url=http://www.ritzsbg.se/ | email= | address=Stortorget 3-5 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 45610333 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 08:00-18:00, Sa 08:00-15:00, Su closed | price= | content=Viennese-style bakery and café (''konditori''). Excellent bread, cakes and buns baked on location at prices matching quality. }} *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Go next== {{geo|56.044167|14.575278}} {{IsPartOf|Blekinge}} {{outlinecity}} 4pe7agmh0s2t894tray2ixy1dwq6vif 5091378 5091376 2025-07-11T11:36:28Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Eat */ move from region article 5091378 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Solvesborgsbron2 banner.jpg}} '''Sölvesborg''' is a small town in [[Blekinge]] with roots in the Danish Middle Ages. With its 8,800 inhabitants (2020), Sölvesborg includes Listerlandet, a peninsula with several charming fishing villages, e.g., Hällevik, Hörvik and Djupekås. Half an hour's boat ride outside Listerlandet lies the fabled island of Hanö. In the northern part of the municipality is Ryssberget with large contiguous beech forests. Sölvesborg is perhaps best known for the Sweden Rock Festival, which is held at the beginning of June every year in the village of Norje. ==Understand == In what was then Denmark, Sölvesborg was built to protect the castle, the ruins of which can be found just north of the city centre. The first castle was probably built at the beginning of the 13th century on an artificial hill between the bay and the road below Ryssberget. The castle was strategically located and under its protection the city of Sölvesborg grew. The city of Sölvesborg still has a well-preserved medieval street network, with Stortorget in the centre and eight perpendicular streets extending from the corners. Northwest of the square is the city's only preserved medieval building, St. Nicolai church, named after the patron saint of sailors. Construction of the church probably began at the end of the 13th century in the Gothic style. To the north of the church you can see traces of the Carmelite monastery that was built in 1486, following the Pope's instructions. Fifty years later the Reformation came and the days of the monastery were over. Through the peace of Roskilde in 1658, Sölvesborg became Swedish. During the beginning of the 18th century, the city lost its city privileges to Karlshamn, and instead of trade, the citizens of Sölves subsisted on agriculture, fishing, and keeping wild boar. At the end of the century, times got better and Sölvesborg became the city of glove and hat makers. During the 19th century, new industries emerged, mainly spirit exports. ===Tourist information === Sölvesborg's tourist office is at the City Hall. {{Phone|+46 456-100 88}}. {{Email|turistbyran@solvesborg.se}} ==Get in== {{mapframe | 56.044 | 14.575 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=12 }} Getting to Sölvesborg is easy. The connections with major cities as [[Malmö]] and [[Kristianstad]] are well, as you can either go by train, bus or just drive. ==Get around== Getting around is most easily done by walking. The city is fairly small. ==See== Sölvesborg and its surroundings have many ancient monuments, both above and below ground. On Mörby hill is a cairn from the older Bronze Age (approx. 1400 BC) with a wide view. In Lörby forest there is a burial field probably from the Iron Age and in Stiby the Stiby Sissa stone stands and "turns towards the smell of freshly baked bread". At St. Nicolai church there are two runestones, but not in their original place. ==Do== * '''Hanö Island''' is reached by ferry from Nogersund in Hällevik. * '''Football:''' [https://maif.se/ Mjällby AIF] play soccer in Allsvenskan, the top tier. Their home ground Strandvallen (capacity 6750) is in Hällevik. The playing season is April-Nov. * '''[http://www.swedenrock.com Sweden Rock Festival]''' — A big, open-air summer rock festival, taking place in Norje, close to Sölvesborg each year in June. ==Buy== ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Ritz Conditori och Bageri | url=http://www.ritzsbg.se/ | email= | address=Stortorget 3-5 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+46 45610333 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 08:00-18:00, Sa 08:00-15:00, Su closed | price= | content=Viennese-style bakery and café (''konditori''). Excellent bread, cakes and buns baked on location at prices matching quality. }} *{{eat | name=Björketorps gård | alt= | url=https://bjorketorpsgard.se/ | email= | address=Björketorpsvägen 17, Johannishus | lat=56.208863 | long=15.375645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=All days during the summer season: 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Björketorps gård is a family owned dairy farm producing milk and ice cream. During the summer season the ice cream bar is open with some 20-30 different flavours of home made ice cream. All year round Björketorps gård has a milk vending machine where fresh milk is sold and a few flavours of ice cream are for sale from the freezer. }} *{{eat | name=Restaurang Skutan | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/skutannogersund/ | email=teamskutan@gmail.com | address=Nogersunds hamnplan 4, Sölvesborg | lat=56.005140 | long=14.736970 | directions= | phone=+46 702 210 459 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 12:00-20:30, F-Su 12:00-22:30 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Restaurant at the harbour in Nogersund from where the boat for Hanö departs. The menu and prices is posted on Facebook every day. Open during the season (June-August) }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Go next== {{geo|56.044167|14.575278}} {{IsPartOf|Blekinge}} {{outlinecity}} 5o0835byg1b6am9ln4jmis3intzfykf 0 32075 5090819 5039684 2025-07-10T13:38:17Z Mx. Granger 132185 cleanup 5090819 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} '''Seine-Maritime''' is a department in [[Normandy]], [[France]]. The departmentincludes the shore of the English Channel from the Seine estuary to the mouth of the Bresle. Tourism is diversified between Rouen, the Seine Valley, and the coastal seaside resorts. Its ports are popular for pleasure boating. ==Cities== {{mapframe|49.332|1.140|zoom=8}} {{mapshape}} *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Rouen]]|lat=49.44|long=1.1|wikidata=Q30974}} — the historical capital of the region *{{marker|type=city|name=Clères|lat=49.6003|long=1.1111|wikidata=Q1057646}} — a small village, with a zoological park, and an automobile museum *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Dieppe]]|lat=49.92|long=1.08|wikidata=Q183557}} — seaside resort, ferries to England and site of a disastrous Woeld War II landing by the allies *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Étretat]]|lat=49.71|long=0.21|wikidata=Q290936}} — world-famous arches in chalk cliffs *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Le Havre]]|lat=49.49|long=0.1|wikidata=Q42810}} — a port town, its reconstructed city centre is a {{UNESCO}} *{{marker|type=city|name=Le Tréport|lat=50.06|long=1.37|wikidata=Q473875}} — small fishing port and seas side resort. Impressive cliffs *{{marker|type=city|name=Jumièges|lat=49.4344|long=0.8214|wikidata=Q658613}} — Jumièges Abbey is a typical Norman abbey of the Romanesque period *{{marker|type=city|name=Saint-Martin-de-Boscherville|lat=49.4442|long=0.9628|wikidata=Q898272}} — abbey church with restored gardens and art exhibitions *{{marker|type=city|name=Vascœuil|lat=49.4456|long=1.3781|wikidata=Q643475}} — small restored château with art exhibitions and permanent open-air sculptures ==Other destinations== *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Seine Valley]]|lat=|long=|wikidata=Q1471}} — fantastic scenery along the meanders of the Seine ==Understand== The coast of Seine-Maritime has many spectacular chalk clifs. The beaches are mainly shingle. If you are looking for a large sandy beach you need to go west, beyond the river Seine, to [[Deauville]] in [[Calvados]] or east, beyond the river Somme, to [[Le Touquet]] in [[Pas de Calais]]. ===Read=== The novel ''La Place'' by Annie Ernaux is set largely in Seine-Maritime. It describes events and changes in French society in the 20th century, especially in relation to the rural population. ==Talk== ==Get in== ===By train=== From Paris -St-Lazare, ICs run every two hours via Rouen, Yvetot and Breuté/Beuzeville to Le Havre. There are also ICs every two hours that end in Rouen and stop in Oissel en route. The fastest trains from Paris to Rouen take 1 hour 10 minutes, and to Le Havre 2 hours 10 minutes. ===By car=== From the greater Paris area, the A 13 motorway leads to Rouen. The A 28 and A 29 provide cross-connections from Picardy ( Amiens ) and the far north ( Calais ) to Rouen and Le Havre. ===By ship=== Dieppe by ferry from Newhaven. Transmanche Ferries operate a return trip in peak season with a car and two passengers costs €190 Journey time is 4 hours. Le Havre – ferry from Portsmouth. ===By bicycle=== The European long-distance cycle route EuroVelo 4 runs through Seine-Maritime, leading from Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium along the English Channel through Dieppe and Le Havre and on to Caen, Cherbourg, Mont-Saint-Michel, and Brittany. From Paris, the Avenue Verte (possibly the future EuroVelo 16 Paris–London) also leads through Gisors and the Pays de Bray to Dieppe. Finally, you can also take the Paris–Rouen route, which then winds its way along the Seine as the V33 cycle route to Le Havre. ==Get around== ==See== [[File:La Manneporte-Etretat-Normandie.jpg|250px|thumbnail|The white cliffs of the Alabaster Coast in Étretat]] [[File:Overview of Abbaye de Jumièges 2015.JPG|250px|thumbnail|Abbey of Jumièges]] * The chalk cliffs on the '''Alabaster Coast''' (Côte d'Albâtre), especially the bizarrely shaped Falaise d'Aval near Étretat with a naturally formed arch, and a number of scenic towns and villages. At [[Étretat]], take a walk across the beach to admire the famous chalky pinnacles and arches. * Norman thatched-roof houses * The '''Abbey of Jumièges''' on the Seine, which Victor Hugo described as the most beautiful ruin in France, about 30  km from Rouen. * '''Rouen''': Gothic cathedral; Abbey Church of Saint-Ouen; Donjon (fortified tower) where Joan of Arc was interrogated; Gothic Palace of Justice; Clock Tower; Old Town with half-timbered houses; Art Nouveau main station * '''Saint-Martin-de-Boscherville''' with the church of the former abbey Abbaye Saint-Georges de Boscherville, about 15  km from Rouen. * The beaches of '''Quiberville''' and '''Pourville''', where you can treat yourself to a serving of excellent oysters. * '''Varengeville''' has an old church perched high up on a rock and an enchanting park. * '''Veules-les-Roses''' is known for its ancient water mills on France's tiniest river * The Benedictine monastery of '''Fécamp''' ==Do== The [http://www.dieppe-cerf-volant.org/festival/festivaluk.html Festival International des cerfs-volants], the largest organized kite festival in the world, takes place in Dieppe in France in even-numbered years, and in odd-numbered years in August in [[Moncton|Dieppe]] in Canada. ==Eat== * Duck à la Rouennaise * fish soup from Dieppe * Neufchâtel cheese from the city of the same name * herring from Le Tréport * Trout and salmon from the Bresle ==Drink== ==Stay safe== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Normandy}} {{outlineregion}} l5xa0awecnjetjt39lqsz3u9t8htfxm 0 32841 5091112 5071081 2025-07-11T00:58:05Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* See */ typo: duplication 5091112 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Singapore Orchard Banner.jpg|pgname=Orchard Road|caption=Bright lights at night|dotm=yes}} '''[http://www.orchardroad.org/ Orchard Road]''' is [[Singapore]]an consumerism at its most manic, a two-kilometre stretch of interconnected shopping malls, hotels, and hotels with shopping malls catering to all budgets and tastes. North of the [[Singapore/Riverside|Singapore River]], to the west of [[Singapore/Marina Bay|Marina Bay]], Orchard Road turns into '''Tanglin Road''' to the west and '''Bras Basah Road''' as it heads east. Only at the eastern Bras Basah end do the shopping malls briefly peter out, with some fine colonial architecture and a few of Singapore's top museums to be found instead. ==Understand== [[Image:Presenting..._the_real_ION_(8200217734).jpg|thumb|350px|Ion Orchard, one of Singapore's many shrines to shopping]] Orchard Road is named after the fruit and nutmeg orchards that used to line it in the 1830s, one of them coincidentally belonging to a Mr Orchard. The manhole covers along the road all depict various tropical fruits. Large trees still shade the road, providing a modicum of relief from the heat. Fortunately, Orchard Road has an extensive network of underpasses that connect many of the malls providing even more shelter from the blistering equatorial heat and, on occasion, rain. Weekends in the area are often packed with locals and visitors alike out to consume en masse. The '''Christmas decorations''' along Orchard are mildly famous and entirely over the top, with reindeers cavorting through palm trees and gingerbread houses topped with fake snow. ===Visitor Centre=== * {{listing | name=Singapore Visitors Centre | alt= | url=https://www.visitsingapore.com/travel-guide-tips/getting-around/tourism-centre/ | email= | address=216 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30137 | long=103.839 | directions=next to orchardgateway@emerald | phone= | tollfree=1800 736 2000 | hours=noon-7PM daily | price= | image= | lastedit=2016-03-28 | content=Oodles of free information on Singapore. There's also a similar but smaller operation in Ion Orchard. Also sells some nice souvenirs. }} ==Get in== Orchard is centrally located about 30 minutes from [[Changi Airport]] by taxi. Most of Orchard Road is served by the North-South Line, which runs under the eastern section of Orchard Road. MRT stations located in this section comprise of '''Orchard''', '''Somerset''', '''Dhoby Ghaut''' and '''City Hall'''. Formerly an area not served by the MRT, the westernmost end of Orchard Road (also known as Tanglin) is now served by '''Orchard Boulevard''' on the newly-opened Thomson-East Coast Line. To get there from the rest of Orchard Road, you will need to change trains at ''Orchard''. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|1.30185|103.83855|zoom=14}} {{Mapshape|type=geomask}} <!-- This adds MRT lines and stations to the map --> <maplink class="no-icon" text="" group="other"> { "type": "ExternalData", "service": "page", "title": "Sandbox/Drat70/mrt_singapore.map" } </maplink> <!-- Badly out of date, commenting out until updated [[Image:Singapore-BrasBasah.png|thumb|564px|Map of Bras Basah and eastern Orchard]] --> Orchard Rd is walkable, at least allowing plenty of breaks in air-conditioned shopping centres. There is still heavy traffic on the road itself, but there are quite a few underpasses and walkways, and sections of the road starting with Dhoby Ghaut are set to be fully pedestrianized from 2025. You can no longer cross the central Orchard/Scotts intersection on foot: instead, take the air-conditioned underground walkway system that links Orchard MRT/Ion Orchard to Wisma Atria, Ngee Ann City and Lucky Plaza (east), to CK Tang/Marriott (north), and to Shaw House and Wheelock Place (west). If you're in a hurry, the North-South MRT (red) line runs under the road for most of its length, or if heading east, hop on any bus for a few stops. To head west, you'll need to walk a block over to Penang/Somerset Rd/Orchard Blvd, since Orchard Rd is one-way only. ==See== Two of Singapore's top museums are in Bras Basah, within striking distance of Dhoby Ghaut and Bras Basah MRT stations. [[File:SNM_Concourse.jpg|thumb|300px|Mixing the old and the new inside the National Museum]] * {{see | name=National Museum of Singapore | alt= | url=https://www.nhb.gov.sg/nationalmuseum/ | email= | address=93 Stamford Rd | lat=1.29672 | long=103.849 | directions= | phone=+65 6332 3659 | tollfree= | hours=Singapore History Gallery: 10AM-6PM; Living Galleries: 10AM-8PM | price=Permanent exhibition $10 general admission, $5 for students, seniors and disabled people (aged 60 and above) (free for Singapore citizens and permanent residents) | wikipedia=National Museum of Singapore | image=National Museum of Singapore 2, Aug 06.JPG | wikidata=Q632689 | lastedit=2022-10-16 | content=Formerly ''Singapore History Museum'', it has been refurbished from top to bottom and a new wing was added. The star of the show is the permanent '''Singapore History Gallery''', a 2800-m² multimedia extravaganza covering six centuries of island history, navigated with a super-flexible, if occasionally somewhat confusing, interactive audio guide system that lets you choose the events and items to focus on. There are also four '''Living Galleries''' focusing on food, fashion, film and photography, plus various temporary exhibitions and a few nice cafes and restaurants. }} * {{see | name=Singapore Art Museum | alt= | url=http://singaporeartmuseum.sg/ | email= | address=71 Bras Basah Rd | lat=1.29734 | long=103.851 | directions=Bras Basah MRT | phone=+65 6332 3222 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Sa-Th 10AM-7PM, F 10AM-9PM | price=$10/5, free Friday evenings 6-9PM | wikipedia=Singapore Art Museum | image=Singapore Art Museum - 20131211.jpg | wikidata=Q2032637 | content=Modern art from both Singapore and the region. The permanent collection is lackluster, but exhibitions can be interesting. Guided tours in English at 11AM and 2PM, with an additional timing on Fridays and weekends. ''Closed until 2026 for redevelopment.'' }} * {{see | name=Istana | alt= | url=http://www.istana.gov.sg/the-istana/open-house/visitors-information-0 | email= | address= | lat=1.30778 | long=103.843 | directions=next to Dhoby Ghaut MRT | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8:30AM-6PM | price=Non-Singaporeans $1 | wikipedia=Istana (Singapore) | image=Istana 20, Singapore, Jan 06.JPG | wikidata=Q843531 | content=Completed in 1869, this British-Malay-Indian hybrid building was once the Government House of the colony of Singapore, before being repurposed upon independence as the official residence of the President. The 100-acre grounds occupy some of Singapore's choicest real estate and incorporate several gardens and even a 9-hole golf course. A separate building on the Istana grounds known as ''Sri Temasek'' serves as the official residence of the Prime Minister, though no prime minister has ever lived there. There is a Changing of the Guards ceremony every first Sunday of the month at 5.45pm, with rifle-twirling displays by the military police. The Istana is open to the public on '''only five days a year''': Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya Puasa, Labour Day and National Day. Apply online in advance for tickets. }} * {{see | name=38 Oxley Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.29792 | long=103.84078 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30645623 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=A nondescript late 19th-century two-storey bungalow just off Orchard Rd, which happened to be the residence of Singapore's first prime minister Lee Kuan Yew; the long-ruling People's Action Party was founded in its basement. Since Lee's death in 2015, it has been embroiled in a bitter decade-long dispute among his descendants and the government over whether it should be demolished, as Lee himself requested, or preserved, as his eldest son and successor Lee Hsien Loong wants. For the time being the building is still standing, but closed to the public. }} ===Religious buildings=== * {{see | name=Maghain Aboth Synagogue | alt= | url=http://www.singaporejews.com/ | email=shabbat@jwb.org.sg | address=24/26 Waterloo St | lat=1.298194 | long=103.850639 | directions= | phone=+65 6337 2189 | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | wikipedia=Maghain Aboth Synagogue | image=Maghain Aboth Synagogue.jpg | wikidata=Q2577683 | lastedit=2021-11-25 | content=One of two Orthodox synagogues in Singapore that have been catering to Singapore's small Baghdadi Jewish community since colonial times. Completed in 1878, it is the oldest active synagogue in Southeast Asia. Also home to a kosher restaurant and Singapore's only kosher grocery store. }} * {{see | name=Chesed-El Synagogue | alt= | url=https://www.chesedel.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1110186 | lastedit=2022-01-30 | content=Renaissance style Orthodox synagogue, built in 1905, originally for the private use of the family of Manasseh Meyer, but today available for use by the community. }} * {{see | name=Cathedral of the Good Shepherd | alt= | url=https://cathedral.catholic.sg | email=cathedral@catholic.org.sg | address=A Queen Street | lat=1.295961 | long=103.851311 | directions= | phone=+65 6337 2036 | tollfree= | fax=+65 6337 6870 | hours=M-F 9:30AM-5:30PM, Sa 8:30AM-8PM, Su 7AM-7:30PM | price=free | wikipedia=Cathedral of the Good Shepherd | image=Cathedral of the Good Shepherd 9, Jan 06.JPG | wikidata=Q4425936 | content=Singapore's Roman Catholic cathedral, the oldest Roman Catholic church in Singapore, and also home to Singapore's oldest working pipe organ. For many years dingy and run down, it was restored to pristine condition in 2016. }} ==Do== It's difficult to find anything more strenuous to do on Orchard than lugging around shopping bags, getting pampered at a spa and watching a movie. [[Image:The_Cathay_5.JPG|thumb|200px|Art-deco frontage of the Cathay]] * {{do | name=Bounce | alt= | url=https://bounceinc.com.sg/ | email= | address=8 Grange Rd | lat=1.3014 | long=103.8363 | directions=Cineleisure Orchard 9F | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-8PM | price=General access $26.90/1st hour, various discounts available | lastedit=2022-10-06 | content=If it's a rainy day and you have kids who need to let off some steam, let them jump around for a while in this giant indoor trampoline park. Various zones catering to children as young as 4. The same mall also has a large movie theatre complex. }} * {{do | name=The Cathay | alt= | url=http://www.thecathay.com.sg | email= | address=2 Handy Rd | lat=1.29931 | long=103.848 | directions=near Dhoby Ghaut MRT | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The Cathay | image=The Cathay-day-2009-09-02.jpg | wikidata=Q779865 | content=A modern shopping mall (partly) hiding behind a stately 1939 art-deco facade, the main draw here is the eponymous cinema on the top floor. The Picturehouse, Singapore's first and only arthouse cinema, shows movies uncut, but many are restricted to 21 and above. }} * {{do | name=Rustic Nirvana | alt= | url=https://www.rusticnirvana.com/ | email= | address=11 Cavenagh Road, #B1-01 | lat=1.30236 | long=103.84107 | directions=Somerset MRT | phone=+65 6238 6890 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Balinese-style spa with over 80 face and body treatment options, including the inimitably named Kung Fu Bouncing Herbs. Ladies only. }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Lucky Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=304 Orchard Rd Level 4 | lat=1.3043 | long=103.8342 | directions=Orchard MRT, Orchard Road exit | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lucky Plaza | wikidata=Q6698001 | content=Various beauty salons can be found on the fourth floor. Facials, a wax and mani-pedis for a fraction of the cost at salons in the rest of the city. Get a stylish haircut at a full-service salon for about $10, even for ladies. The best salons accept most major credit cards to cater to the demand of tourists. }} ==Buy== <!-- badly outdated, removing unless somebody updates this [[Image:Singapore-Orchard.png|thumb|564px|Map of Orchard Road]] --> '''Orchard Road''' and neighbouring '''Scotts Road''' form Singapore's premier shopping district, with several kilometres of road lined on both sides by practically nothing but shopping malls. ===Malls=== [[Image:Marriott_Hotel_2,_Singapore,_Dec_05.JPG|thumb|240px|The Marriott atop Tangs Plaza]] [[Image:Ngee_Ann_City_Orchard_Road.jpg|thumb|240px|The fearsome bulk of Ngee Ann City]] While most malls in Orchard are distinctly upmarket, there are one or two that still cater to the average Singaporean wallets. Most of the shopping centres operate from 10AM to 10PM. A selection of malls, from west (Orchard MRT) to east (Dhoby Ghaut MRT): * {{buy | name=Far East Plaza | alt= | url=http://www.fareastplaza.com.sg/ | email= | address=14 Scotts Rd | lat=1.30694 | long=103.833 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Far East Plaza | image=Far East Plaza, Dec 05.JPG | wikidata=Q5434545 | content=Once a hip teenybopper shopping paradise, now long in gentle decline. There are still some bargains to be found for clothes and accessories, and the basement food court has cheap eats. }} * {{buy | name=Wheelock Place | alt= | url=http://www.wheelockplace.com | email= | address=501 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30453 | long=103.831 | directions=Orchard MRT | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Wheelock Place | image=Wheelockplace.JPG | wikidata=Q7992332 | content=The multistory glass cone above the entrance is an Orchard landmark and the signature of star architect Kisho Kurokawa. Previously notable primarily for the giant Borders bookstore that used to occupy the entire ground level, this has been replaced by a large Marks & Spencer department store. There's a pretty good selection of restaurants on the 2nd floor. }} * {{buy | name=ION Orchard | alt= | url=http://www.ionorchard.com/en | email= | address=2 Orchard Turn | lat=1.30444 | long=103.832 | directions=integrated with Orchard MRT | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=ION Orchard | image=ION orchard Singapore final.jpg | wikidata=Q3146786 | lastedit=2022-10-06 | content=Covered in pulsating neon lights at night, this is Orchard's flashiest mall in more ways than one, extending four floors both above and under ground. The first few floors are dominated by high-street flagships for Louis Vuitton and co, but the interior and basement have plenty of more affordable options including Japanese retailers '''Uniqlo''' and '''Muji'''. The fourth floor has the '''ION Art''' gallery, while the basement 4 '''Food Opera''' food court, while a bit pricey by Singapore standards, is enormous and very popular. Located on levels 55 and 56, at 218 metres, '''ION Sky''' offers a 360-degree view from the highest point on Orchard Road. }} * {{buy | name=Tangs Plaza | alt= | url=http://www.tangs.com/ | email= | address=320 Orchard Rd | lat=1.305 | long=103.8331 | directions=Orchard MRT | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Easily spotted thanks to the faux-Chinese pagoda tower (which houses the Marriott hotel, see [[#Sleep|Sleep]]), this mall is best known for housing Singapore's very own old-school department store CK Tangs, which dates back to 1958 and was the very first shop in the area. '''Tiong Bahru Bakery''', at the corner, has some of the best French pastries in town. }} * {{buy | name=Wisma Atria | url=http://www.wismaonline.com/ | email= | address=435 Orchard Rd | lat=1.3037 | long=103.8333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Designer boutiques and international brands populate this architecturally fascinating mall.}} * {{buy | name=Lucky Plaza | alt= | url=http://www.luckyplaza.com.sg | email= | address=304 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30447 | long=103.834 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lucky Plaza | image=Lucky Plaza, Dec 05.JPG | wikidata=Q6698001 | content=Most visitors end up in Lucky Plaza thanks to the dubious street-level camera and electronics stores, which are legendary for ripoffs and poor customer service, and are best avoided unless you really know your stuff. However, there's more to the mall than that: cheap souvenirs (2nd floor), low cost salons that offer most services such as manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing and hair services (fourth floor), off-season designer perfumes and cosmetics (most floors) and a cheap and surprisingly good food court in the basement. Lucky Plaza is also the favorite hangout spot for the Filipino community and gets packed on weekends, making it one of the best places in Singapore to sample Filipino cuisine. }} * {{buy | name=Ngee Ann City | alt=Takashimaya Shopping Centre | url=https://www.takashimaya.com.sg/ | email= | address=391 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30278 | long=103.834 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ngee Ann City | image=Ngee Ann City Orchard Road.jpg | wikidata=Q3133228 | content=Where the ''tai-tais'' (wealthy ladies of leisure) hang out. Expensive branded goods on the first floors, more affordable shopping in the two basement floors. Also features '''Kinokuniya''', Southeast Asia's largest bookstore, on the 4th floor, with extensive English, Chinese and Japanese selections. As a favourite hangout spot for the Japanese community, there is no shortage of Japanese food to cater to that crowd: in particular, the always packed ''depachika'' food stalls in basement 2 would feel right at home in Tokyo. }} * {{listing | type=buy | name=Paragon | alt= | url=https://www.paragon.com.sg/ | email= | address=290 Orchard Rd | lat=1.3038 | long=103.8356 | directions=opp Takashimaya | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The Paragon, Singapore | wikidata=Q7756076 | content=Long one of Singapore's flashiest malls, packed with Prada, Gucci and other luxury brands, although ION has stolen some of its thunder. The large medical centre here is geared towards expensive aesthetic specialists offering Botox and facelifts. }} * {{buy | name=Design Orchard | url=https://www.designorchard.sg/| email= | address=250 Orchard Rd | lat=1.3020199 | long=103.8378043|| directions=Somerset MRT | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:30am-9:30pm| price= | wikipedia=Design Orchard | content=Devoted entirely to Singaporean designers, this squat fashion-forward edifice of raw concrete with circular glass windows houses the work of over 100 local brands across fashion, jewelry, and cosmetics, all available for sale of course. A good place to pick up some souvenirs. The shady garden rooftop is a public park and event space.}} * {{buy | name=313@Somerset | url=http://www.313somerset.com.sg/ | email= | address=313 Orchard Rd | lat=1.3012 | long=103.8385 | directions=Somerset MRT | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= 313@somerset is directly linked to the Somerset MRT station and features a concentration of mid-range retail and dining outlets.}} * {{buy | name=Orchard Gateway | alt= | url=https://www.orchardgateway.sg/ | email= | address=277 & 218 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30092 | long=103.83898 | directions=Somerset MRT | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Orchard Gateway | wikidata=Q18129005 | lastedit=2017-11-02 | content=This mall is built in the space between Orchard Central and 313, so you might not even notice that you are in a different mall. A special feature of this mall is that it stretches over both sides of Orchard road, connected both via an underpass and a link bridge. This mall houses a public library on the third and fourth level, which is a good spot to take a break from the crowds of Orchard Road, as well as the Singapore visitor centre. }} * {{buy | name=Orchard Central | alt= | url=http://www.orchardcentral.com.sg | email= | address=181 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30078 | long=103.83951 | directions=Somerset MRT | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Orchard Central | wikidata=Q7100181 | content=Modern, soaring twelve-story mall with a funky series of outdoor escalators and nice views from the terraces. Houses a multi-story flagship '''Uniqlo''' outlet as well as large basement shops for Japanese retailers '''Don Don Donki''' (food and more) and '''Hands''' (crafts and DIY). Floors 7 and above are devoted to food, with restaurants such as '''Tsukiji Fish Market''' with sashimi rice bowls. }} [[Image:Centrepoint_9,_Xmas,_Dec_06.JPG|thumb|Christmas decorations at Centrepoint]] * {{buy | name=The Centrepoint | alt= | url=http://www.thecentrepoint.com.sg | email= | address=176 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30153 | long=103.84 | directions=Somerset MRT | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The Centrepoint | image=Centrepoint 2, Xmas, Dec 06.JPG | wikidata=Q7721920 | content=One of the stalwarts of Orchard Road, now largely outshone by newer competitors. The anchor tenant here is '''Decathlon''', the French sports superstore, which is a great place to buy anything sporty including swimwear, snorkels, etc. }} * {{buy | name=Plaza Singapura | alt= | url=http://www.plazasingapura.com.sg/malls/website/index.aspx | email= | address=68 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30072 | long=103.845 | directions=Dhoby Ghaut MRT | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Plaza Singapura | image=Plaza Singapura, Dec 05.JPG | wikidata=Q3392153 | content=Singapore's oldest air conditioned shopping mall, just above the MRT interchange. '''Muji''' flagship store complete with Muji Cafe, numerous eating options and a large cinema complex on the top floors. Very busy since it sits atop Singapore's largest MRT interchange. }} ==Eat== Orchard is a good place to sample not just Singaporean food, but food from all over the planet. That said, if you're pinching pennies, prices tend to be slightly inflated by Singaporean standards, but well, at least it's not as bad as Sentosa. ===Budget=== Almost every shopping mall has its own food court, but for gourmet snacking, it's hard to beat the collection of shops and stands at Takashimaya's basement. Be careful though, those $2 squid balls won't fill you up. * {{eat | name=Asian Food Mall | alt= | url=https://www.asianfoodmall.com.sg/ | email= | address=304 Orchard Rd, Basement | lat=1.30466 | long=103.83398 | directions=Lucky Plaza | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM-9PM | price=$3-5 | lastedit=2022-10-06 | content=One of the cheapest food courts in the district. Dim and dingy, but prices are about 30% cheaper than the food courts at nearby malls while still maintaining excellent Singapore standards. Stalls serve local and Asian fare, with Filipino fast food chains like Jollibee and Tapa King well represented. The chicken rice stall usually sells out well before closing and the ''ayam penyet'' (Indonesian fried chicken) is no slouch either. }} * {{eat | name=Ayam Penyet Ria | alt= | url=http://www.ayampenyetria.com/ | email= | address=304 Orchard Rd #04-25/26 | lat=1.30471 | long=103.83379 | directions=Lucky Plaza | phone=+65 6235 7385 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-9PM | price=$7 | content=Very popular Indonesian eatery specializing in ''ayam penyet'' or "smashed chicken", breaded, deep-fried and flattened, served with the fiery chili sambal of the name. For a less spicy treat, sample their excellent ''rawon'' (beef soup). }} * {{eat | name=Food Republic | alt= | url=https://foodrepublic.com.sg/ | email= | address=435 Orchard Rd, Level 4 | lat=1.30397 | long=103.83292 | directions=Wisma Atria | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM-9PM daily | price=$6-10 | lastedit=2017-10-31 | content=Food court done up as a series of hawker carts and decorated with various nostalgic knick-knacks. The food is a notch above average (try e.g. the ''hokkien mee'' fried noodles, with a perennial queue snaking out in front), and so are the crowds. Slightly more expensive than the competition. Other Orchard outlets at ION and 313@Somerset. }} * {{eat | name=Gyoza no Osho | alt= | url= | email= | address=5 Koek Rd | lat=1.30203 | long=103.84073 | directions=Cuppage Plaza | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=$10 | content=On the ground floor of a musty mall filled with dodgy Japanese karaoke joints, this greasy spoon joint specializing in ''ramen'' noodles and ''gyoza'' dumpling will make you sweat &mdash; partly because the soups are hot, partly because they don't have air-con. }} * {{eat | name=Killiney Kopitiam | alt= | url=https://killiney-kopitiam.com/ | email= | address=67 Killiney Rd | lat=1.29883 | long=103.83945 | directions=Somerset MRT | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M W-Sa 6AM-11PM, Tu Su 6AM-6PM | price=$1-5 | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=A Singaporean legend now franchised across the island, this ordinary-looking coffee shop continues to pack in the crowds for its famous ''kaya'' (coconut-egg jam) toast, with the ''kaya'' itself also sold as a handy souvenir. For lunch or dinner, try the more substantial chicken curry with grilled French bread ($4.50). }} * {{eat | name=Isle Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=5 Koek Rd, #01-03 | lat=1.30161 | long=103.84051 | directions=Cuppage Plaza | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9:30AM-9:30PM | price= | lastedit=2021-09-26 | content=Cheerless but air-conditioned and cheap, this perennially packed eatery offers a range of Singaporean noodles, snacks and drinks. The most popular dish is economy rice: pick and choose from 20+ options on display, with a plate of rice and three dishes around $3. Second outlet in Far East Plaza, Scotts Rd. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Din Tai Fung | alt= | url=https://www.dintaifung.com.sg/ | email= | address=290 Orchard Rd #B1-03/06 | lat=1.3038 | long=103.83503 | directions=Paragon | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM-10PM daily | price= | lastedit=2022-10-06 | content=The original Singapore branch of the award-winning Taiwanese chain, serves some of the best ''xiao long bao'' (soup dumplings, $8.50 per platter) this side of [[Shanghai#Eat|Shanghai]]. The pork chop fried rice is also justly legendary and will fill you right up. Expect to queue near mealtimes, but it's a big place and the queue moves fast. Other outlets at Wisma Atria and Centrepoint. }} * {{eat | name=Shimbashi Soba | alt= | url=http://www.sobaworld.com.sg | email= | address=290 Orchard Rd #B1-41 | lat=1.30349 | long=103.83522 | directions=Paragon | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=$10-20 | content=The best Japanese ''soba'' noodles you'll find in Singapore, made by hand in the adjoining glass-walled workshop. The best time to come here is lunch, when you can get filling set meals for $15 or so. }} * {{eat | name=Soup Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.souprestaurant.com.sg | email= | address=290 Orchard Rd #B1-07 | lat=1.30383 | long=103.83542 | directions=Paragon | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2017-10-27 | content=Offers not only excellent Chinese-style soup, but also plenty of traditional Singaporean Chinese fare, including their trademark '''samsui chicken''' (slow-boiled chicken eaten wrapped in lettuce with garlic sauce). Eat a Chinatown Heritage Course ($50 for two) for lunch and take the leftovers home for dinner. Franchises throughout Singapore, including Suntec City and Changi Airport. }} * {{eat | name=Sushiro | alt= | url=https://takeout.sushiro.com.sg/ | email= | address=#03-K1/K2, 350 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30568 | long=103.83163 | directions=Shaw House/Isetan | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM-9PM | price=$2.20-4.80 per plate | lastedit=2021-09-26 | content=Japan's largest conveyor belt sushi chain has landed in Singapore, offering a huge range of both traditional and modern sushi at reasonable prices, including tasty seasonal specials. What's best, you don't even need to wait around, just order what you'd like on the tablet and a tiny little bullet train will wing its way straight to your table! Very popular, so book ahead or get there early. }} ===Splurge=== '''Orchard Road''' is brimming with fiercely competitive restaurants. One easy option is '''[http://www.crystaljade.com/ Crystal Jade]''', a popular chain of Chinese restaurants with outlets in nearly every major shopping mall in Singapore, including Suntec City, Shaw House, and Paragon. * {{eat | name=Chatterbox | alt= | url=https://chatterbox.com.sg/ | email= | address=333 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30181 | long=103.83602 | directions=Hilton level 5 | phone=+65 6831 6291 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Possibly Singapore's most famous chicken rice, and at $25/plate after tax, certainly its most expensive &mdash; but you do get very generous portions, air-con, red-lacquered furniture in a very posh hotel. (For the budget alternative, go to Mr Chicken Rice in the Downtown East Mall in the very east of Singapore, run by Chatterbox's original chef and offering the same for $3!) }} * {{eat | name=Crystal Jade Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=391 Orchard Rd #04-19 | lat=1.30325 | long=103.83435 | directions=Ngee Ann City | phone=+65 6735 2388 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Lunch 11:30AM-3PM, dinner 6-10:30PM | price=Lunch $25, dinner $50 | lastedit=2017-11-01 | content=The flagship of the chain, which serves authentic Cantonese food. Dinner here is fairly expensive, but the set lunch for two is good value at $50. The dim sum during the lunch time is worth trying as well as the roasted meat and wonton noodles during lunchtime. Reservations recommended as queues can be as long as an hour. }} * {{eat | name=Mezza9 | alt= | url= | email= | address=10-12 Scotts Rd 2F | lat=1.30637 | long=103.83331 | directions=Grand Hyatt | phone=+65 6730 7189 | tollfree= | hours=Su 11:30AM-3PM | price= | lastedit=2017-11-01 | content=Famous for their '''Sunday Munch''', one of the best of Singapore's many extravagant hotel brunches. Worth a splurge at $178++ per person, including free-flowing Perrier-Jouet champagne. Reservations essential. ''Closed until 2025 for renovation.''. }} * {{eat | name=Sushi Kanazawa | alt= | url= | email= | address=360 Orchard Rd #02-13 | lat=1.30586 | long=103.8309 | directions=International Bldg | phone=+65 6738 3833 | tollfree= | hours=Daily, noon-3PM, 6-10PM | price=Around $40/50 lunch/dinner, +$10 on weekends | lastedit=2022-10-06 | content=Tiny hole-in-the-wall sushi joint, but the ten counter seats here are packed every night thanks to their simple concept: pay a flat fee and the chef makes all the sushi you can eat. You can either let the chef pick, or order off a ten-page menu. Reservations highly advisable. }} * {{eat | name=Tung Lok Peking Duck | alt= | url=https://www.tunglokpekingduck.com/ | email= | address=181 Orchard Rd | lat=1.3007 | long=103.8399 | directions=Orchard Central 7F | phone=+65 6736 0006 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:30AM-3PM, 6-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-06 | content=This restaurant set up with Beijing's famed Xiheyaju dishes out what's probably the most delectable Peking duck in town, with crispy skin and juicy meat. $98 per duck, served as three dishes and enough to fill up 4 people if you add on a few sides. Reservations recommended. }} ==Drink== [[File:Ice Cold Beer, Emerald Hill Road, Singapore - 20121014.jpg|thumb|A shophouse bar in Emerald Hill]] If you're looking for a caffeinated beverage, you're spoiled for choice in Orchard. Seemingly every franchise in the world ranging from Starbucks to Taiwanese bubble teas like Chicha San Chen and Japanese master brewers Hoshino have outlets in the area, and there are plenty of independent, more quirky shops tucked away in the malls too. * {{drink | name=Halcyon & Crane | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/halcyoncrane/ | email= | address=290 Orchard Road #03-09 | lat=1.3037 | long=103.8351 | directions=Paragon 3F | phone=+65 9727 5121 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-8:30 PM | price=Drinks around $10 | lastedit=2022-10-06 | content=Peaceful, wood-toned cafe with all-day breakfast and interesting drinks. Order a jasmine tea here and you'll get actual jasmine flowers in your cup. }} If you're looking for something stronger, Singapore's nightlife is concentrated just south of Orchard Rd by the [[Singapore/Riverside|riverside]], but there are still a few notable nightspots. The largest cluster is {{marker|type=drink|name=Emerald Hill|wikidata=Q5370441}} opposite Somerset MRT, a beautifully restored cluster of shophouse bars. Most bars here require patrons to be '''25+'''. * {{drink | name=Alley Bar | alt= | url=https://www.alleybar.sg/ | email= | address=2 Emerald Hill | lat=1.30145 | long=103.83915 | directions= | phone=+65 6732 6966 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 5PM-2AM or later | price=$10-15 | lastedit=2017-11-02 | content=True to its name, this bar has been set up in an alley between two shophouses &mdash; not that you'd really notice from the slick modern decor and the endless parade of Singapore's ''nouveaux riches''. }} * {{drink | name=Number 5 | alt= | url=http://www.emerald-hill.com/ | email= | address=5 Emerald Hill | lat=1.30169 | long=103.83908 | directions= | phone=+65 6732 0818 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa noon-2AM, Su 5PM-2AM | price= | content=Friendly bar housed in a 1910 Peranakan shophouse. Downstairs is loud, upstairs is quieter with a pool table. The cocktails are good, but for a fiery kick try their Chilli Vodka or its industrial-strength big brother, Chilli Padi Vodka. }} A few places of interest lurk elsewhere along the strip. * {{drink | name=Orchard Towers | alt= | url=https://www.orchardtowers.sg/ | email= | address=400 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30696 | long=103.82926 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-05-16 | content=Undoubtedly Orchard Road's most notorious nightspot, this dingy shopping mall was widely known as the "four floors of whores" until a 2023 crackdown that saw all nightclub licenses terminated. You may still run into Thai "ladies" propositioning passersby in the hallways, but by and large the action has moved elsewhere. }} * {{drink | name=Manhattan | alt= | url=https://regentsingapore.com.sg/dining/manhattan/ | email= | address=1 Cuscaden Road | lat=1.3047 | long=103.825 | directions=Regent Hotel 2F | phone=+65 6725 3098 | tollfree= | hours=5PM-midnight | price=Cocktails $25 | lastedit=2022-10-06 | content=Multiple winner of the Best Bar in Asia award, this plush Old World haven of velvet armchairs, rich drapery and mahogany tables focuses on classic American cocktails and has over 150 American whiskies in stock. Dress code applies: no slippers, singlets/tank tops, or activewear. }} ==Sleep== Accommodation on Orchard Rd incurs a hefty premium for the location and is uniformly expensive (at least by Singapore standards). Cheaper rates are usually offered only by older hotels in varying states of decay. ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=YMCA International House | alt= | url=http://www.ymcaih.com.sg/ | email= | address=1 Orchard Rd | lat=1.29757 | long=103.84808 | directions= | phone=+65 6336 6000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm $30, single/twin $125/130 | lastedit=2021-11-25 | content=Forget your preconceived ideas of what a YMCA is - this is a hotel that also has dorm rooms. Air-con, TVs, fridge and attached bathrooms in all rooms, plus gym and rooftop pool. Rooms on the 2008-refurbished floor cost $5 extra, a worthwhile investment. History buffs should note that the previous YMCA building on this site was the headquarters of the notorious Japanese military police ''Kempeitai'' during the Occupation, but the present structure dates from the 1980s. }} ===Mid-range=== <!-- closed for renovation until end 2022 * {{sleep | name=The Elizabeth | alt= | url=http://www.theelizabeth.com.sg/ | email= | address=24 Mount Elizabeth | lat=1.30801 | long=103.83568 | directions= | phone=+65 6738 1188 | tollfree= | checkin=Nov 2021: temporarily closed | checkout= | price=$115 | lastedit=2021-11-25 | content=This somewhat tired tourist hotel doesn't have much of the promised "Old World Grandeur", but the location a short stroll off Orchard is good for the price and there's a waterfall to watch as you munch on the insipid breakfast buffet. }} --> * {{sleep | name=Orchard Rendezvous Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.rendezvoushotels.com/hotel/orchard-rendezvous | email=Info.orh@fareast.com.sg | address=1 Tanglin Rd | lat=1.30663 | long=103.82774 | directions= | phone=+65 6673 7113 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$200 | lastedit=2021-11-25 | content=This business hotel decorated in modern Mediterranean style is located at the starting end of Orchard Road, next to Forum Galleria. It is also within walking distance to the Botanic Garden and embassy district in Tanglin. }} * {{sleep | name=Rendezvous Hotel Singapore | alt= | url=https://www.rendezvoushotels.com/en/Hotels/Rendezvous-Hotel-Singapore | email= | address=9 Bras Basah Rd | lat=1.29858 | long=103.84934 | directions= | phone=+65 6336 0220 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$200 | lastedit=2021-11-25 | content=Colonial style on the outside painted an eye-catching baby blue, modern facilities including pool on the inside. Lee Kuan Yew was once a regular at the Straits Cafe upstairs for their famous ''nasi padang'' (rice buffet). }} * {{sleep | name=YWCA Fort Canning Lodge | alt= | url=https://www.ywcafortcanning.org.sg/ | email= | address=6 Fort Canning Rd | lat=1.29755 | long=103.84505 | directions= | phone=+65 6338 4222 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single/twin $180/190 | lastedit=2021-11-25 | content=Hotel-style accommodations at a mid-range price in a good location just off Orchard. Broadband Internet in all rooms, outdoor pool, tennis court. And no, you don't have to be young, female or Christian to stay here. Long-term stay rates also available if staying over a month. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bencoolen | alt= | url=http://www.hotelbencoolen.com | email=onlinereservation@hotelbencoolen.com | address=47 Bencoolen St | lat=1.29906 | long=103.85021 | directions=next to Bencoolen MRT | phone=+65 6336 0822 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single around $135 | lastedit=2021-11-25 | content=On the fringe of the main Orchard Road stretch. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Goodwood Park Hotel.jpg|thumb|Goodwood Park Hotel]] If you want to splurge, there are two major styles to choose from, colonial hotels, harking back to the turn of the century, and modern hotels, firmly in the present. * {{sleep | name=Concorde| | alt=Formerly Le Meridien | url=http://www.concordehotel.com.sg | email= | address=100 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30060 | long=103.84216 | directions= | phone=+65 6733 8855 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$250 | content=Long overdue for a renovation, the main selling points here are the central location and the reasonable prices. }} * {{sleep | name=Four Seasons | alt= | url=http://www.fourseasons.com/singapore/ | email= | address=190 Orchard Blvd | lat=1.3052 | long=103.8287 | directions= | phone=+65 6734 1110 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$400 | content=Centrally located, but tucked away on a quiet side street. Famed for its level of personal service, and the modern facilities include the only air conditioned tennis courts in the country. }} * {{sleep | name=Goodwood Park Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.goodwoodparkhotel.com/ | email= | address=22 Scotts Rd | lat=1.3082 | long=103.8341 | directions= | phone=+65 6737 7411 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$300 | wikidata=Q5583726 | lastedit=2025-01-15 | content=The place to stay if you want the Raffles experience without the crowds and with a slightly less breathtaking price tag. The main building dates back to 1900, was the first in Singapore to offer a swimming pool and air conditioning, and served both as a Japanese HQ during WW2 and the venue of their war crimes trials afterwards. Supremely lovely garden pool. The best hotel rooms are in the Heritage wing, while the modern(-ish) Parklane annex across the parking lot offers serviced apartments. }} * {{sleep | name=Grand Hyatt Singapore | url=https://singapore.grand.hyatt.com/ | email= | address=10 Scotts Rd | lat=1.3064 | long=103.8333 | directions= | phone=+65 6738 1234 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=$300 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Hyatt's Singapore flagship is Orchard Road's standard-bearer for sleek modern swank.}} * {{sleep | name=voco Orchard Singapore | alt=formerly Hilton Singapore | url=https://www.ihg.com/voco/hotels/us/en/singapore/sinor/hoteldetail | email= | address=581 Orchard Rd | lat=1.3058 | long=103.8293 | directions= | phone=+65 6737 2233 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=$300 | wikidata=Q110608543 | lastedit=2022-01-03 | content=The steep price comes mostly from the excellent location a few minutes walk from Orchard MRT. }} * {{sleep | name=Marriott | url=https://www.marriott.com/property/propertypage/SINDT | email= | address=320 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30504 | long=103.83304 | directions= | phone=+65 6735 5800 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=$300 | checkin= | checkout= | content=In the perfect location for shoppers, right at the centre of Singapore at the intersection of Orchard and Scotts, and with Tang's department store in the basement and an underground walkway to Orchard MRT. A little older and mustier than the other high-end options, but the ''yum cha'' (dim sum buffet) on Sundays is to die for.}} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Singapore Orchard | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/sinorhi-hilton-singapore-orchard/ | email= | address=333 Orchard Rd | lat=1.30205 | long=103.83632 | directions= | phone=+65 6737 4411 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$250 | wikidata=Q111243216 | lastedit=2022-01-03 | content=Slightly older but very central hotel popular among businessmen and sightseers alike. }} * {{sleep | name=Pan Pacific Orchard | alt=Formerly the Meritus Negara | url=http://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-resorts/singapore/orchard.html | email=enquiry.sgo@panpacific.com | address=10 Claymore Rd | lat=1.30735 | long=103.82991 | directions=in the quiet residential enclave of Claymore, the hotel is a short walk away from all the Orchard Rd action | phone=+65 6737 0811 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$350 | content=The property offers fully furnished serviced apartments along with a fitness centre, swimming pool, sky garden, residents' lounge and a business centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Quincy | alt= | url=http://www.quincy.com.sg/ | email= | address=22 Mount Elizabeth | lat=1.30773 | long=103.83578 | directions= | phone=+65 6738 5888 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$250 | content=Opened 2009, this super modern boutique hotel is tucked away on a quiet hill 5 min from Orchard Road. Insane 12th floor pool half-suspended in the air. Gym, sauna, spa. Free minibar and all three meals included in most packages. }} * {{sleep | name=Royal Plaza on Scotts | alt= | url=http://royalplaza.com.sg | email= | address=25 Scotts Rd | lat=1.30674 | long=103.83233 | directions= | phone=+65 6737 7966 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A modern hotel catering mostly to business travellers, offers free in-room wired/elsewhere wireless Internet, a pool and gym along with all services expected of a fine hotel. Even modest rooms are well furnished with excellent toiletries. Buffet restaurant (Carousel) offers excellent if pricey, Asian and Mediterranean dishes prepared in a ''Halal-certified'' kitchen for four different meals. }} * {{sleep | name=Shangri-La | alt= | url=http://www.shangri-la.com/singapore/shangrila/ | email=singapore@shangri-la.com | address=22 Orange Grove Rd | lat=1.3112 | long=103.82677 | directions= | phone=+65 6737 3644 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=$400 | wikidata=Q6146488 | lastedit=2022-09-08 | content=One of the world's most luxurious resort hotels, this is where VIPs visiting Singapore tend to stay, including Donald Trump when he dropped in to meet Kim Jong Un, as well as George W. Bush and Barack Obama before him. The hotel is also the meeting place of the Shangri-La Dialogue, an annual international security conference held in early June attended by worldwide generals. Expect heightened security during the dialogue.<br>Highly unusually for Singapore, the hotel is set in a huge, manicured garden that feels a world away from the hustle of Orchard Rd. The breakfast here often tops lists in the tightly competed category of best breakfast buffet in Singapore, and the Michelin-starred Shang Palace has some of the best dim sum in Singapore. 755 guest rooms and suites, with the "Valley Wing" forming an exclusive hotel within a hotel. On the downside, the location is a bit of hike, and some of the older rooms are firmly stuck in the 1980s -- pick your room type carefully. }} * {{sleep | name=The St. Regis Singapore | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/sinxr-the-st-regis-singapore/ | email= | address=29 Tanglin Rd | lat=1.30565 | long=103.82608 | directions=Off west end of Orchard Rd | phone=+65 6506 6888 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=$600 | content=A rather odd fusion of St. Regis's signature roaring-twenties-in-New York style (crystal chandeliers and leather sofas) with Asian artworks, plasma TVs and jet massage showers. Pool, spa, Michelin-starred sushi restaurant, 24-hour butler service, private art collection including works by Botero and Miro. Another preferred place of accommodation for foreign dignitaries vising Singapore, Kim Jong-un stayed here for his summit with Trump back in 2018, as did Chinese presidents Hu Jintao and Xi Jinping on their respective state visits to Singapore. }} * {{sleep | name=Grand Park Orchard | alt= | url=https://www.parkhotelgroup.com/en/orchard | email=info.gpor@parkhotelgroup.com | address=270 Orchard Road | lat=1.30288 | long=103.83644 | directions= | phone=+65 6603 8888 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=Noon | price=Starting from $220 | content= }} ==Connect== Most shopping malls at Orchard offer free wifi. If you're looking for an old school Internet cafe, you can still find some at Lucky Plaza. ===By post=== * {{listing | name=ION Orchard Post Office | alt=Singapore Post | url=https://www.ionorchard.com/shop/singapore-post | email= | address=2 Orchard Bend Rd, #B2-62 | lat=1.30367 | long=103.83249 | directions=Access from within ION Orchard Mall. Check mall directory map for post office location. | phone=+65 1605 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:30AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2020-02-11 | content=A convenient place to mail gifts to someone or mail your purchases back home after shopping. }} * {{listing | name=Killiney Road Post Office | alt=Singapore Post | url=http://www.singpost.com | email= | address=1 Killiney Rd, #01-01 |lat=1.30014 | long=103.84069 | directions=Killiney Road Open Space at Killiney Rd & Penang | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-F 9AM-5:30PM; Sa 9AM-1:30PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-02 | content= }} {{guidedistrict}} {{geo|1.3013|103.8417|zoom=16}} {{IsPartOf|Singapore}} dw5m25j7xmeivw3eor8ak9lbcizzs23 0 33621 5090911 4810859 2025-07-10T15:19:19Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Cities */ 5090911 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Southern Vietnam Road in Phu Quoc.jpg}} '''Southern Vietnam''' covers the '''Mekong Delta''', the extreme southern end of the Mekong River, and the area around [[Ho Chi Minh City]], [[Vietnam]]. == Understand == [[File:SAIGON – Mekong Delta (2042765375).jpg|thumb|300px|Small boats in the Mekong Delta]] Like all river deltas, it receives the bounty of the siltation from the upper Mekong, and as such is a very rich and lush area, covered with rice fields. It produces about half of the total of Vietnam's agricultural output (in fact, the delta produces more rice than Korea and Japan combined), and is the place for timeless views of farmers planting or harvesting rice. It was the scene of vicious fighting during what the Americans call the Vietnam War and the Vietnamese call the American War, but with the country at peace for several decades now, it recovered its previous position as the country's rice bowl. The Mekong splits in Cambodia into two main rivers, the Bassac (''Hậu Giang'') and the First River (''Tiền Giang''). Then in Vietnam it splinters into a more complex system, creating a maze of small canals, rivers and arroyos interspersed with villages and floating markets. Life in the Mekong Delta revolves around the river, and all the villages are often accessible by river as well as by road. The high points of life in the Mekong delta are the lunar new year ([[Tet]], or ''Tết''), and the mid-autumn festival (''Tết trung thu''), where children will set hundreds of candles on their way on the river on as many tiny skiffs. If you know how to take your time, or are guided by an able guide, you will certainly enjoy your stay in the Mekong delta. == Cities == {{mapframe}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ho Chi Minh City]]|wikidata=Q1854}} – Also called Saigon, a large, bustling city of commerce and history * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ben Tre]]|wikidata=Q36635}} – A city and province, famous for its coconut, gardens of fruit and garden, is a little isolated from the rest of the Mekong Delta. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ca Mau]]|wikidata=Q25262}} – A city and province * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ca Na]]|wikidata=Q14208956}} – A city in the ''Ninh Thuan'' province * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Can Tho]]|wikidata=Q216075}} – A city municipality once known as Tay Do, and the largest city in the Mekong Delta. Can Tho has simple, poetic beauty with well-off villages under the shade of coconut trees. On the east bank of Hau River is Ninh Kieu Wharf, which is known for its beautiful location. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chau Doc]]|wikidata=Q373214}} – A city in the ''An Giang'' province * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Hồ Tràm]] | wikidata=Q15227599}} – A beach destination near Ho Chi Minh City * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Phan Rang–Tháp Chàm]]|wikidata=Q19013}} – The capital of ''Ninh Thuan'' province * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Phan Thiet]]|wikidata=Q25315}} – The capital of ''Binh Thuan'' province * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Long Xuyen]]|wikidata=Q33421}} – The capital of ''An Giang'' province * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Mui Ne]]|wikidata=Q1317125}} – A beach resort just east of Phan Thiet * {{marker|type=city|name=[[My Tho]]|wikidata=Q33425}} – The capital of ''Tien Giang'' province * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Rach Gia]]|wikidata=Q36093}} – The capital of ''Kien Giang'' province * {{marker|type=city|name=Sa Đéc|wikidata=Q2987563}} – Famous for the flower village of Sa Đéc, the lover's works of French writer, in the ''Dong Thap'' province * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Soc Trang]]|wikidata=Q33418}} – A city and province, Khmer-culture influenced village in an area of vast rice paddies, shrimp lagoons, and luxuriant fruit gardens. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tay Ninh]]|wikidata=Q130391}} – A city and province * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Tra Vinh]]|wikidata=Q36136}} – A city and province, encircled by the Tien and Hau Rivers and long coastline. Tra Vinh's economy is based on agriculture, aquaculture, fish and, shrimp farming. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Vinh Long]]|wikidata=Q34789}} – A city and province, has many pagodas, communal houses. Visitors have chance to walk among the trees, relax in hammocks, try all kinds of delicious tropical fruits in the gardens of An Binh and Binh Hoa Phuoc Islands. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Vung Tau]]|wikidata=Q21194}} – A city in the ''Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu'' province, popular with locals for access to the beach from HCMC, but also many foreigner find their way here. Many connections exist from here into the surrounding region, Southern Vietnam and the Mekong Delta. == Other destinations == * {{marker|wikidata=Q1421202|name=[[Cat Tien National Park]]}} – A major protected area of lowland rainforest about 150&nbsp;km north of [[Ho Chi Minh City]]. * {{marker|wikidata=Q370746|name=[[Con Dao]]}} – An island of immense natural beauty with forested hills, deserted sandy beaches and extensive coral reefs * {{marker|wikidata=Q146695|name=[[Phu Quoc]]}} – An up-and-coming island beach destination in Kien Giang province == Talk == [[File:Quoc-Tu.jpg|thumb|Quoc Tu Pagode]] In the villages there are not many people who speak languages other than Vietnamese or Khmer, though in the cities you will find more who do. Bring a phrasebook if you are venturing out away from a tour or into places that are not listed in your guidebook. == Get in == ===By road=== This region is near [[Ho Chi Minh City]], and [[Can Tho]] (''Cần Thơ'') is 4 hours drive away, so it is easy to access by road, although there is only one main road, and as such it is rather crowded. You can also enter near the coast at the [[Ha Tien]] border crossing from [[Kampot]] or [[Phnom Penh]] — bus connections are available. See also [[Vietnam|By road]] or [[Ha Tien#By bus]] ===By plane=== There are some flights between Ho Chi Minh City ({{IATA|SGN}}) and [[Rach Gia]] ({{IATA|VKG}}), and also between Ho Chi Minh City and the island of Phu Quoc ({{IATA|PQC}}). Rach Gia can also be reached by boat or plane from [[Phu Quoc]]. Airports: * {{marker|type=go|name=[[SGN|Tan Son Nhat International Airport]]|wikidata=Q478595}} ({{IATA|SGN}}) near [[Ho Chi Minh City]] * {{marker|type=go|name=[[VKG|Rach Gia Airport]]|wikidata=Q1993204}} ({{IATA|VKG}}) near [[Rach Gia]] * {{marker|type=go|name=[[VCA|Can Tho International Airport]]|wikidata=Q170343}} ({{IATA|VCA}}) near [[Can Tho]] * {{marker|type=go|name=[[VCS|Con Dao Airport]]|wikidata=Q47724}} ({{IATA|VCS}}) on [[Con Dao]] * {{marker|type=go|name=[[PQC|Phú Quôc International Airport]]|wikidata=Q1423325}} ({{IATA|PQC}}) on [[Phú Quôc]] ===By boat=== {{seealso|Vietnam#By boat}} From [[Phnom Penh]], Cambodia there is one daily boat to [[Chau Doc]]. ==Get around== ===By boat=== Only cruises/ferries between [[Cai Be]] and [[Can Tho]], as well as [[Ben Tre]] and [[My Tho]] exist. ===By bus=== Travel by bus in southern Vietnam is quite convenient. There are extensive connections (express and local) between most cities and towns, just go to any town's bus station and you should be able to find bus connections to where you want to go, or at least pretty close to it. Local buses will be large and old and will belch exhaust. They will be slightly cheaper than express buses, but may be a more interesting experience if you enjoy the grittier aspects of local culture. The buses usually won't have air conditioning, but they will keep the windows down so sometimes they can end up being cooler than the express buses. They will make frequent stops along the road to pick up travelers. If you want to get off somewhere between the main cities, you should take a local bus. Express buses will only stop at bus stations. ===By bicycle and motorbike=== The Mekong Delta is a great place to explore by bicycle and motorbike. The terrain is flat and the roads are well-maintained. Traffic isn't too heavy, especially on back roads off Hwy 1A. The road between [[Chau Doc]] through [[Long Xuyen]] to [[Can Tho]] is easily the most dangerous in the delta, with quite a lot of big trucks and buses rumbling along a narrow road. Be careful when riding along this stretch and hug the edges of the road. You will never have to worry about finding a place to sleep. You will never be more than 30–40&nbsp;km from a town with a guest house (nha nghi) or hotel (khach san). If the biking gets too tiring, you will also find cafes at least every 4–5&nbsp;km where you can rest and have a drink. There are also mechanic shops every few kilometres where you can get flat tires and other mechanical problems repaired. A lot of local life happens just next to the road in the delta, so exploring on two wheels can be a great way to get closer to it. You'll see farmers working their fields and walking their buffalos home in the evening. People dry rice, coconut husks, lemongrass and other spices on the side of the road. There will be plenty to see! You can rent a motorbike in most of the bigger cities in the delta. Renting a bike for a longer trip around the delta might be difficult to work out, but you can also buy a cheap bike for just over US$100. There's no need to buy a fancy bike, you can ride comfortably on a cheap bike as the rides aren't too challenging. You can also usually rent bikes in each town for day trips, or maybe even for a few days at a time. ===By tour=== {{seealso|Vietnam#By boat}} Many tour companies offer the same Mekong Delta tours from Ho Chi Minh City — some of them end in Saigon (2-days/1-night), others in Phnom Penh (3-days/2-nights). However, the only times on a boat with these tours will be at one or two floating market morning boat trips from any of the overnight towns along the way, and the short [[Ben Tre]]–[[My Tho]] boat ride — otherwise you are stuck in the bus. Also the tours may include a visit to a fish farm and a Cham minority village. It is common for the guide to offer upgrades during the trip, at cheaper than the tour asking price, so avoid buying the expensive version, as an upgrade is waiting in the wings. For an actual boat tour of the Mekong Delta it will probably require several hundreds if not a thousand US dollars. == See == Most of the interest of the place resides in its floating markets, and the life around the rivers criss-crossing the area; also the national parks and nature reserves. It is possible to take tours on small boats around [[My Tho]] (''Mỹ Tho'') and the islands north of [[Ben Tre]] (''Bến Tre''); around [[Cai Be]] (''Cái Bè'') and the An Binh peninsula; and around [[Can Tho]] (''Cần Thơ''). Both Cai Be and Can Tho feature floating markets. It is also possible to get away from the main road and into the more remote rivers on board larger river cruisers for discovery cruises of the area in comfort. == Do == '''Sam Mountain''', a few kilometres from [[Chau Doc]], is a regional Buddhist pilgrimage site and is a good place for a hike. The "mountain" is only 160 m tall and there are steps of concrete and stone all the way to the top. You will find numerous colorful temples as you climb to the top, and there are many cafes along the way where you can relax with a fresh coconut or glass of milk coffee. If you can, save your cafe break until you get near the top, where you can relax in a hammock and enjoy the breeze while looking out over the delta and even into neighboring Cambodia. Sam Mountain is the only hill for a long way in every direction, so you can get a great view of Chau Doc and the patchwork or rice fields run through by canals all around. '''Phu Quoc Island''' is the adventure centre for the delta area. You can go scuba diving or snorkeling here, though there aren't so many fish left nowadays. Nha Trang, in central Vietnam, has more marine life to see. Phu Quoc is best for exploring by motorbike. There are roads covering a good portion of the island, and they're generally passable as long as it hasn't been raining too much. There are few signs, though, so bring a map and find out how to ask for directions. The roads on Phu Quoc are mostly compacted dirt and you can't travel very fast, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time before sunset if you're planning to go out exploring, especially in the northern part of the island which is sparsely populated. If you do go out, though, you can ride through some otherwise untouched forest and go for at least 15&nbsp;km without seeing another bike, which is surely a record in southern Vietnam. The road that hugs the western coast of the island is great to drive along in the evening to enjoy the sunset. == Drink == == Sleep == == Stay safe == Don't swim in the river itself, as there is a chance of picking up parasites. Bring repellent and sunblock with you. Make sure hotel has mosquito net. Also, as you will travel by boat and ferry quite often in Mekong Delta, be careful when embarking or disembarking. Check out best time to visit Mekong Delta and stay tuned to weather forecast for flood news in the area if any. == Go next == Most travellers visit the Mekong Delta as a two or three-day trip from Ho Chi Minh City. After the Mekong Delta, it is best to travel to [[Phu Quoc]] or [[Cambodia]] via Chau Doc. You may also fly out of Mekong Delta via [[Can Tho]] airfield. Other regions: * [[Central Coast (Vietnam)|Vietnam's Central Coast]] to the northeast * [[Central Highlands (Vietnam)|Vietnam's Central Highlands]] to the north {{outlineregion}} {{isPartOf|Vietnam}} {{geo|10.53|106.42|zoom=8}} 70m7wrg4ppuj3m1h4a2497uu8n0fj5f 0 34360 5090908 5076455 2025-07-10T15:17:34Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ event > 2025 5090908 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Stornoway_page_banner.jpg|caption=Lews Castle and Inner Harbour}} '''Stornoway''' (Gaelic ''Steòrnabhagh'') is the main town on [[Lewis]] and the admin centre for all of Scotland's [[Outer Hebrides]]. Indeed it's the only town in these islands; it has the best amenities and transport links, and it's the obvious base for exploring both Lewis and Harris. It is industrial, and not particularly picturesque, but has lots to see. The population was 4800 in 2021, a sharp decline on previous figures. == Get in == {{Mapframe | 58.210 | -6.385 | height=550 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} === By plane === {{go | name=Stornoway Airport | alt={{IATA|SYY}} | url=https://www.hial.co.uk/homepage/9/stornoway-airport | email= | address= | lat=58.2139 | long=-6.3219 | directions=2 miles east of town on A866 | phone=+44 1851 702256 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Stornoway Airport | wikidata=Q2667407 | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Stornoway has flights from across Scotland by [https://www.loganair.co.uk/ Loganair], in twin-prop aircraft. These are not cheap, around £250 return and more at the weekend, but it's a full-service airline so a checked bag is included in the fare. (And think what petrol alone will cost if you drive then take the ferry.) There are four flights M-Th and two F-Su from Glasgow GLA taking an hour, one or two from Edinburgh, 1-3 from Inverness, and M-F one or two from Benbecula. Check-in an hour before flight is soon enough at Stornoway; allow the standard two hours at busy Edinburgh or Glasgow. The airport has toilets, a lounge and cafe. There's car hire but you need to book ahead. Bus W5 runs between town and airport five times M-Sa, taking 15 min. Another five buses M-F pass nearby on the highway out to Point. All the local taxi firms serve the airport, see "Get around". }} === By boat === [https://www.calmac.co.uk Calmac ferries] sail to Stornoway from [[Ullapool]] on the mainland, taking 2 hr 30 min. There are two sailings year-round M-Sa, and on Sunday two Apr-Oct and just one Nov-Mar. Until end of March 2026, return fares are £133.50 per car, £24.60 per adult including driver, and £12.30 per child aged 5-15. These ferries often sell out in summer, so even foot passengers should book in advance. Be at the pier at least 45 min before sailing. There's also a ferry from [[Uig]] on Skye to [[Tarbert (Harris) | Tarbert]] on Harris, from where you can drive up to Lewis. You can also sail to Lochmaddy on [[North Uist]], or to [[South Uist]] or [[Barra]], then work your way north by road and ferry, as part of a tour of the Outer Hebrides. === By bus === See [[Lewis]] for buses around the island, which all converge on Stornoway. They're sparse M-Sa with nothing on Sunday. The bus station is next to the ferry terminal. A [https://www.cne-siar.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/bus-services bus-ferry service] runs up the Western Isles through Barra, the Uists and Harris to Stornoway, so M-Sa it may be possible to go the whole way in one day. There are half-a-dozen services part-route, but for the full route you need to set off from Castlebay on Barra at 6:20AM, Lochboisedale on South Uist at 9AM, Benbecula at 11:10AM, Lochmaddy on North Uist at 11:30AM and Tarbert on Harris at 4:20PM, to reach Stornoway by 5:30PM. Going south, you leave Stornoway 9:30AM to reach Tarbert at 10:45AM, Lochmaddy at 1:45PM, Benbecula at 2:25PM, Lochboisdale at 3:25PM and reach Castlebay at 5:35PM. == Get around == '''By bus:''' see [[Lewis]] for routes around the island, which all converge on Stornoway. The town is small and the only bus you're likely to use within it is W5, which runs east along A866 to the airport and away out to The Point. Northbound it runs along B895 up the east coast past the hospital towards Tolsta. About a dozen run M-F and five on Saturday. Bus W1 (for the north tip of the island) and Bus W2 (west coast loop) run through town along A857 to Manors roundabout and the hospital before wandering off into the countryside. '''Car hire:''' rental firms are [https://www.stornowaycarhire.co.uk/ Stornoway Car Hire] ({{phone|+44 1851 702658}}), [https://www.stornowayvehiclehire.co.uk/ Stornoway Vehicle Hire] (+44 7502 156439) and [https://www.carhire-hebrides.co.uk/ Car Hire Hebrides] ({{phone|+44 1851 706500}}). They can all pick up or drop off at the ferry terminal or airport. '''Taxi:''' the [https://www.hial.co.uk/stornoway-airport/airport-information-12/3?documentId=57&categoryId=20011 Stornoway airport website] lists almost two dozen local operators. == See == [[File:Lews Castle, Stornoway (40768472553).jpg | thumb | 300px | Lews Castle and Museum ]] * {{see | name=An Lanntair | alt= | url=https://www.lanntair.com | email=info@anlanntair.com | address=Kenneth Street HS1 2DS | lat=58.2082 | long=-6.3871 | directions= | phone=+44 1851 708480 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 10AM-5PM, Th-Sa 10AM-11PM, last Su of month 1-4PM | price= | wikipedia=An Lanntair | wikidata=Q4750134 | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Arts centre hosting exhibitions, concerts and films; the name means "The Lantern". The cafe and bar are open daytime and some evenings. }} * '''Highland Cow''' is a monster statue opposite the Coop on Bayhead the main road north. Useful to knowː you can actually buy model cows like these on Amazon. * {{see | name=Lews Castle | alt=Museum & Tasglann nan Eilean | url=https://www.outerhebridesheritage.org.uk/museum/museum-nan-eilean-stornoway/ | email= | address= | lat=58.2116 | long=-6.3943 | directions= | phone=+44 1851 822746 | tollfree= | hours=Museum Apr-Sep: Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM; Oct-Mar: Tu-Sa 1-4PM | price=Donation | wikipedia=Lews Castle | wikidata=Q2969723 | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=The castle was built in the 1850s for Sir James Matheson, who made his fortune in the far eastern opium trade. To build it he demolished the remnants of the preceding medieval castle, whilst losing the "i" from Lewis. It was later sold to Lord Leverhulme the soap tycoon. In the 20th century it was used as a navy air base and as student accommodation then fell into disuse, but was refurbished from 2011. It now houses Museum & Tasglann nan Eilean, the museum and archive of island life. The ballroom is used as a ritzy event space, and there's expensive self-catering apartments available. The extensive castle grounds are always open to stroll. }} * {{marker | name=[https://canmore.org.uk/site/213933/lewis-stornoway-battery-point Old Gun Battery] | type=see | lat=58.2037 | long=-6.3721}} is just a pair of 19th-century Royal Naval Reserve 6-inch guns at the entrance to the power station. The battery was in use 1876-1919: it was just a training facility. It was built over by the power station but these guns were recovered from the site. You can continue out along the causeway to the marina, though the area is industrial. * {{marker | name=Iolaire Memorial | type=see | lat=58.190 | long=-6.348 }}: in the early hours of New Year's Day 1919, ''HMY Iolaire'' was bringing home sailors demobilised at the end of the Great War, but she struck a rock at the entrance to Stornoway harbour and sank. The official death toll was 205, mostly local men, but the boat was overcrowded and it may have been higher. The memorial is at Holm east of town, follow the lane south just before the airport entrance. == Do == [[File:An Lanntair - geograph.org.uk - 1243043.jpg | thumb | 300px | An Lanntair ]] * '''What's on?''' Read [https://www.stornowaygazette.co.uk/ Stornoway Gazette] or listen to Isles FM on 103.0 Mhz. * '''Lews Castle Grounds''' are woodlands always open to stroll, and there are 20 miles of off-road bike trails. * '''Golf:''' [https://stornowaygolfclub.co.uk/ Stornoway GC] is on Lady Lever Park just west of town. White tees 5010 yards, par 68, visitor round £40. * '''Boat trips:''' [https://www.stornowayseafari.com/ Stornoway Seafari] go wildlife-spotting May to mid-Oct. * '''[https://stornowayhistoricalsociety.org.uk/ Stornoway Historical Society]''' occasionally holds exhibitions and events. * '''[https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/outer-hebrides/hebridean-way.shtml Hebridean Way]''' is a way-marked hiking and cycling trail the length of the Outer Hebrides. Northbound the 12th and final stage for hikers is from Balallan to the Woodlands Centre. Cyclists get to within 7 miles of town at Langabhat, but turn west to follow the coast road all the way to the Butt of Lewis. * '''Football''' is played only at amateur level. The soccer team play in the Harris & Lewis League Mar-Oct. The rugby union club are made of sterner stuff and play through the winter. * '''[https://www.hebceltfest.com/ Hebcelt]''' music festival is at multiple venues but mostly in the grounds of Lews Castle and at An Lanntair in town. Flights, ferries and accommodation are booked solid while it's on. There's no camping within the venues, and no dogs allowed. The next is 16-19 July 2025. == Buy == Never on a Sunday: Lewis Sabbatarians are fighting a bitter rearguard action. They've been unable to resist the ungodliness of flights and ferries on a Sunday, but all shops remain closed except Engebret's filling station, and the majority of eating and drinking places. On Saturday night, pubs and entertainments halt by midnight. In November 2024 Tesco made national news by announcing that its store will open on Sunday, it is yet to be seen whether this will be permanent. Several shops sell Harris Tweed, either by the metre or made into clothes and bags. * '''Cash:''' ATMs are at Tesco, RBS by Crown Hotel, Bank of Scotland on Cromwell St and Co-op Food on MacAulay Rd. * '''Tesco''' is 100 yards east of the pier on Ferry Rd, open M-F 6AM-midnight, Sa 6AM-10PM. From 17 November 2024 it will open on Sunday. * '''Co-op Food''' main store is north side of town on MacAulay Rd, off Bayhead main road, open M-Sa 7AM-22ː00. The smaller Co-op on Cromwell St in town centre has the same hours. * {{buy | name=Stornoway Smokehouse | alt= | url=https://www.stornowaysmokehouse.co.uk/ | email= | address=10 Shell Street HS1 2BS | lat= | long= | directions=near Tesco and the pier | phone=+44 1851 702723 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 9AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=A good traditional smokery cures local fish. }} * '''[https://www.harrisandlewis.co.uk/ Harris & Lewis Smokehouse]''' is next to the Caladh Inn and has a cafe. * {{buy | name=Baltic Bookshop | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Balticbookshop/ | email= | address=8-10 Cromwell St HS1 2DA | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1851 702082 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-5:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Books, including a large selection on island interests, with newspapers, stationery and gifts. }} * {{buy | name=Hebridean Tea Store | alt= | url=https://www.hebrideanteastore.co.uk/ | email= | address=22 Cromwell St HS1 2DD | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 800 228 9294 | tollfree= | hours=M Tu Th-Sa 10AM-4PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=They stock a wide range of premium loose leaf teas (and some coffee), many blended to their own recipe. }} * {{buy | name=Engebret Filling Station | alt= | url=https://www.engebret.co.uk/ | email= | address=Sandwick Road HS1 2SL | lat=58.2082 | long=-6.3758 | directions= | phone=+44 1851 702303 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 6AM-11PM, Su 10AM-4PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Filling station and convenience store, it could be your lifesaver on a Sunday. }} * '''Pharmacies:''' Boots (corner of Cromwell Rd and Point St) is open M-Sa 9AM-5:30PM, and KJ MacDonald at 20 Cromwell St has the same hours. These are just about the only pharmacies on Harris & Lewis. There is also a non-dispensing Superdrug near Boots. == Eat == [[File:Stornoway Black Pudding.jpg | thumb | 300px | Stornoway Black Pudding ]] * '''Cameron's Chip Shop''' is at 33 Point St opposite Crown Hotel, open M-W noon-8PM, Th-Sa noon-9PM. * '''Istanbul Restaurant''' on South Beach next to An Lanntair is actually Indian. * '''[https://www.facebook.com/HarbourKitchenSTY/?locale=en_GB Harbour Kitchen]''' is a seafood restaurant at 5 Cromwell St open Th-Sa 5-9PM. * '''Golden Ocean''' is a Chinese restaurant next to the Library at 12 Cromwell St, open M-Sa 11:30AM-10PM, Su 4-10PM. * '''[https://www.thegoodfoodboutique.co.uk/ Good Food Boutique]'''is a deli at 59 Cromwell St open 8:30AM-5:30PM. * '''The Boatshed''' is the restaurant within Royal Hotel on Cromwell St (see Sleep), open daily noon-9PM. HS-1 is the Cafe Bar. * {{eat | name=Peking Cuisine | alt= | url= | email= | address=30 Church St HS1 2JD | lat= | long= | directions=next to Police Station | phone=+44 1851 705548 | tollfree= | hours=W-M 4-9PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Chinese takeaway, quick, inexpensive and filling. Cash only. }} * {{eat | name=Thai | alt= | url= | email= | address=27 Church St HS1 2JD | lat=58.2101 | long=-6.3866 | directions= | phone=+44 1851 701811 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 4-10PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Mixed reviews for this Thai restaurant which also does takeaway. }} * '''Bangla Spice''' at 33 Church St also gets mixed reviews. It's open Tu-Sa 5-9PM. * '''Eleven''' is the restaurant within Caladh Inn (see Sleep) at 11 James St. Breakfast is served M-F 7-9:30AM, Sa Su 8-10AM, and the carvery is open daily noon-9PM. Booking essential as residents have first dibs. They also do takeaway. * {{eat | name=Fusion | alt= | url= | email= | address=Perceval Rd South | lat= | long= | directions=by Cabarfeidh Hotel at Manor roundabout | phone=+44 1851 706373 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Th noon-2PM, 4-10PM, F Sa noon-11PM, Su 1-9PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Chinese takeaway at the north edge of town. It's convenient for the Cabarfeidh and Laxdale caravan site but the food is mediocre. }} * {{eat | name=Woodlands Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Castle grounds | lat=58.2118 | long=-6.3911 | directions= | phone=+44 1851 706916 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Serving coffee & snacks. }} == Drink == : Stornoway's concentration of pubs reflects the absence of them around the rest of Lewis. * '''Crown Inn''' on Castle St (see Sleep) is the bar where the 14-year-old Prince Charles (now King Charles III) came on a sailing outing from his school Gordonstoun. Locals recognised the boat and crowded round. The prince fled in here and ordered the only drink he knew the name of: a cherry brandy. His forebear Bonnie Prince Charlie could have drained the bottle in a trice, but the young prince was under age. His bodyguard (his only friend and confidant) was sacked, and Charles was thereafter closely confined to his school regime of cold showers, dawn runs, and bullying, bullying, bullying * {{drink | name=McNeills | alt= | url= | email= | address=11 Cromwell Street HS1 2DA | lat= | long= | directions=block west of County Hotel | phone=+44 1851 703330 | tollfree= | hours=M-W noon-11PM, Th-Sa noon-1AM, Su noon-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Sports bar with live music Thursdays, no food. }} * {{drink | name=The Criterion | alt= | url= | email= | address=32 Point Street HS1 2XF | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1851 288030 | tollfree= | hours=M-W 11AM-11PM, Th-Sa 11AM-1AM, Su 12:30-11PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Good trad bar, dog-friendly. }} * {{drink | name=New Lewis Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=8-10 North Beach HS1 2XP | lat= | long= | directions=Castle Street | phone=+44 1851 704567 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11AM-11PM, F 11AM-1:30AM, Sa 11AM-12:30AM, Su noon-11PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Welcoming pub with food, dog-friendly. }} * '''Star Inn''' by the harbour gets dismal reviews. * '''Distillery:''' Abhainn Dearg makes malt whisky. It's at the northwest end of the island, see [[Lewis#Drink]] for tours. Tarbert on Harris also has a distillery. == Sleep == [[File:Lews Castle, Stornoway during HebCelt Festival.jpg | thumb | 300px | HebCelt Festival by the castle ]] Advance booking is essential June-August, and advisable any time of year. === Budget === * '''Wild camping''' is mostly permitted, but overnight parking is not. * {{sleep | name=Laxdale Holiday Park | alt= | url=https://www.laxdaleholidaypark.com/ | email= | address=6 Laxdale Lane HS2 0DR | lat=58.2273 | long=-6.3924 | directions=off A857 a mile & half north of Stornoway | phone=+44 1851 706966 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Tent pitch £15 | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Clean efficient place with good facilities open Apr-Oct, with 35 pitches for tents and 19 hook-ups for caravans, plus static caravans, bunkhouse (no dogs) and wigwams. }} * {{sleep | name=Heb Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.hebhostel.com | email= | address=25 Kenneth Street HS1 2DR | lat= | long= | directions=next to County Hotel | phone=+44 1851 709889 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm bunk £23, double £70, shepherd's hut £80 | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Friendly well-run central hostel open Apr-Oct. No pets. }} === Mid-range === * {{sleep | name=Jannel B&B | alt= | url=https://www.jannel-stornoway.co.uk | email= | address=5 Stewart Drive HS1 2TU | lat=58.2208 | long=-6.3879 | directions=near hospital and golf course | phone=+44 1851 705324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £140 | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Friendly comfy B&B at north end of town. }} * {{sleep | name=Crown Inn | alt= | url=https://www.crownhotelstornoway.com/ | email= | address=Castle St HS1 2BD | lat=58.2083 | long=-6.3901 | directions=entrance is on Point St | phone=+44 1851 703734 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £120 | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Small hotel, dog-friendly, some street noise. With a public bar (the one where Prince Charles asked for a cherry brandy) and upstairs restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=County Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.countyhotelstornoway.co.uk/ | email= | address=12 Francis Street HS1 2XB | lat=58.2087 | long=-6.3868 | directions= | phone=+44 1851 703250 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £150 | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Small central place, comfy enough but pricey for what you get. }} * {{sleep | name=Caladh Inn | alt= | url=https://www.caladhinn.co.uk | email= | address=James Street HS1 2QN | lat=58.2082 | long=-6.3816 | directions= | phone=+44 1851 702740 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £130 | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Simple hotel with 68 rooms, handy for the ferry and the bus station. Most rooms are comfy enough but the economy singles are horrid little broom cupboards. }} === Splurge === * {{sleep | name=Royal Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.royalstornoway.co.uk | email= | address=Cromwell St HS1 2DG | lat=58.2106 | long=-6.3883 | directions= | phone=+44 1851 702109 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £180 | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Comfy hotel on waterfront with 24 rooms and Boatshed restaurant. Built in 1845 and the state of some facilities confirms this. }} * {{sleep | name=Cabarfeidh Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.cabarfeidh-hotel.co.uk | email= | address=Manor Park, Perceval Rd South HS1 2EU | lat=58.2195 | long=-6.3881 | directions= | phone=+44 1851 702604 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £250 | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Hotel with 46 rooms and Solas restaurant north side of town, often caters to weddings. Overpriced for what you get. }} * {{sleep | name=Lews Castle | alt= | url=https://www.lews-castle.co.uk/accommodation/ | email= | address=HS2 0XP | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+44 1625 416430 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) from £170 | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=17 luxury self-catering apartments. The castle has a cafe and a bar, see website for seasonal restaurant. Accommodation management is outsourced to a third party based in Wilmslow, Cheshire. }} == Connect == [[File:Highland Cow, Stornoway - geograph.org.uk - 3708589.jpg | thumb | 300px | "You weren't thinking of leaving us?" ]] As of Sep 2023, Stornoway has 4G from EE, which extends along the island roads. You might get a signal in town from O2, Three or Vodafone. 5G has not yet reached Lewis and Harris. {{listing | name=Stornoway Library | alt= | url= | email= | address=49 Cromwell Street HS1 2DA | lat= | long=- | directions= | phone=+44 1851 822744 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 10AM-5PM, Sa 10AM-4PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=This has internet access. }} == Cope == * {{listing | name=Bayhead Bridge Centre | alt= | url=https://www.bayheadbridgecentre.co.uk/laundrette | email= | address=Bayhead HS1 2EB | lat=58.2132 | long=-6.3876 | directions= | phone=+44 1851 705808 | tollfree= | hours=Laundry M-Sa 8AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2023-09-01 | content=Community centre with inexpensive laundrette and public showers. Also has a cafe and student rooms for longer stays. }} == Go next == * The rest of [[Lewis]] is easiest to explore by day-trips from Stornoway, for example the Callanish Stones. You need your own vehicle. * [[Great Bernera]] is an island linked by road to Lewis. It has accommodation. * [[Harris]] is more rugged and scenic than Lewis. It is within range of a day-trip from Stornoway, or you might move base to either Tarbert or Leverburgh. * [[Berneray]], reached by ferry from Leverburgh, is the next island on the chain leading south, with a good paved road all the way down through the Uists. {{geo|58.209|-6.387|zoom=13}} {{IsPartOf|Lewis}} {{usablecity}} 8g0mi9wfk8jlj6le06njcwclu9u9o01 0 34583 5091138 4702564 2025-07-11T01:51:08Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Wineries */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091138 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Summerland banner ornamental gardens.jpg|caption=One of the gardens at Summerland's Ornamental Gardens}} '''[https://visitsummerland.com/ Summerland]''' is in [[British Columbia]], [[Canada]]. It is a small community of 11,600 (2016) people in the [[Okanagan|Okanagan Valley]]. The architecture of the downtown area is done in Old English Tudor. ==Understand== [[Image:Summerland_uppertown.jpg|300px|thumb|View of uppertown from Giants Head Mountain]] Summerland began its life on the lake. At first, ''Summerland'' was nestled in the tiny strip of land between Okanagan Lake and the foreboding clay cliffs that covered the settlement in shadow by mid afternoon. The first recorded settler to this area was in 1887, and some of his family's descendants are still in the area. The area had electricity in 1905, telephones in 1907, and a newspaper the next year. Growth was fast. This area is commonly referred to as ''lower town''. With the arrival of the '''Kettle Valley Railway''' in 1915, ''West Summerland ''(the location of the present town centre) was born. When the alignment of Highway 97 was moved from lowertown up to the plateau in 1955 and the post office was moved to "West Summerland" in 1964 the 'West' was dropped and the entire area was then referred to as Summerland. Summerland has grown to include ''Trout Creek'', which arcs into Okanagan Lake south of town, ''Prairie Valley'', which leads west of town, and the huge agricultural benchland that sits behind Giants Head Mountain. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|49.600555555556|-119.67777777778|zoom=12}} ===By plane=== There is no airport in Summerland. Penticton airport ({{IATA|YYF}}) is {{km|18}} to the south. Kelowna airport ({{IATA|YLW}}) is 65 km to the north. ===By car=== Highway 97 is the only highway into town. It runs south from [[Kelowna]] and north from [[Penticton]]. [[Vancouver]] is 420 km (261 mi) to the west. [[Calgary]] is 689km (428mi) to the east. [[Seattle]] is 519km (322mi) to the southwest. ==Get around== The downtown core is easily walked in under 15 minutes from end to end. While Summerland has a modest population, the residential area is spread over a huge area with many steep hills to climb while you enjoy the breathtaking views this wonderful town has to offer. === By public transit === * {{go | name=BC Transit (South Okanagan-Similkameen Transit System) | alt= | url=https://www.bctransit.com/south-okanagan-similkameen/home | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-844-442-2212 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=BC Transit | wikidata=Q4179186 | lastedit=2022-04-06 | content=Offers local bus service in [[Penticton]]. Also offers Monday to Saturday service on separate routes Naramata and Summerland. }} ** Bus route 30 operates between Summerland and Penticton (25 min, $3) from Monday to Saturday. ** Bus route 70 operates between Penticton and [[Kelowna]] with stops in Summerland, [[Peachland]], and [[West Kelowna]]. Route operates from Monday to Friday. Travel time from Kelowna is about 45 minutes and from downtown Penticton is about 20 minutes. === By taxi === * {{Listing|name=Summerland Taxi|phone=+1-250-494-6651|lastedit=2022-04-08}} ==See== [[Image:Trout_creek_trestle.jpg|thumb|300px|View from below the trestle.]] * {{See|name=Trout Creek Canyon and Trestle|lat=49.56608|long=-119.65473|directions=Canyon View Road|lastedit=2023-03-18|content=This bridge was built in 1913 as part of the '''Kettle Valley Railway''', considered one of the greatest railway engineering feats of its time. The last train rolled over the bridge in 1985 and the tracks were removed ten years later. Today you are welcome to wander across and see if you can withstand vertigo when peering down 73 m (238 ft) to the rushing creek below. This trestle is the highest railway trestle in British Columbia, and the third highest in North America.}} * {{see | name=Gartrell Barn | alt= | url= | email= | address=3117 Gartrell Road | lat=49.57504 | long=-119.63866 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content=It may be dilapidated today, but this barn which was built circa 1890 by one of Summerland's pioneer families is a tangible link to the past. Please be respectful of the many families that live in this area. }} * {{See|name=Giant's Head Mountain|url=https://visitsummerland.com/giantshead/|address=9296 Milne Rd|lat=49.59117|long=-119.67038|lastedit=2023-03-18|content=Is an extinct volcano in the center of town, has 360-degree views of Summerland to the north and west, Okanagan Lake to the east, and [[Penticton]] to the south. The entire mountain is designated as parkland, and there is a narrow windy road that leads to a parking area near the top. A ten minute climb will take you the rest of the way. There is also a time capsule at the top, to be opened in 2067 coinciding with Canada's bicentennial.}} * {{See|name=Summerland Ornamental Gardens|url=https://summerlandgardens.org|address=4200 Highway 97|lat=49.56508|long=-119.65233|phone=+1 250-494-6385|hours=8 AM-4 PM (winter), 8 AM - 6 PM (spring, fall), 8 AM - 8 PM (summer)|price=$5 suggested donation|lastedit=2023-03-18|content=Part of Agriculture Canada's fruit tree research facility created in 1916, the pristine gardens feature a picnic area on a vast lawn as well as annotated displays of the local flora. Also features stirring views of '''Trout Creek Canyon''' and the '''Trout Creek Trestle'''.}} * {{see | name=Summerland Museum | alt= | url=https://www.summerlandmuseum.org/ | email=info@summerlandmuseum.org | address=9251 Wharton St | lat=49.60050 | long=-119.67879 | directions= | phone =+1 250 494-9395 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content=Visit displays and collections that provide insight into this area's vast and interesting history and heritage. Contains town records and photographs dating from 1909. }} ==Do== * Spend the day at one of Summerland's six '''beaches''': ** {{Marker|type=do|name=Powell Beach|lat=49.57341|long=-119.62133}} in Trout Creek. ** {{Marker|type=do|name=Gordon Beggs Rotary Beach|lat=49.60512|long=-119.65176}} in lowertown. ** {{Marker|type=do|name=Kin Beach Park|lat=49.72818|long=-124.89687|url=https://bcparks.ca/kin-beach-park/}} in lowertown. ** {{Marker|type=do|name=Peach Orchard Beach Park|lat=49.60906|long=-119.65258|url=https://www.summerland.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails}} in lowertown. ** {{Marker|type=do|name=Sun-Oka Beach Park|lat=49.56391|long=-119.63124|url=https://bcparks.ca/sun-oka-beach-park/}} in Trout Creek. ** {{Marker|type=do|name=Crescent Beach|lat=49.61579|long=-119.65881}} in lowertown. * {{do | name=Bottleneck Drive | alt= | url=https://bottleneckdrive.com/ | email= | address=Around Summerland| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content=Step off the busy highway and enjoy this self-guided winery tour to go tasting various types of alcohol made in Summerland. As of 2023, there are 11 wineries, 4 cideries, one distillery, and one brewery. }} See also "Drink" section for some of the locations. * {{do | name=Kettle Valley Steam Railway | alt= | url=https://www.kettlevalleyrail.org/ | email= | address=18404 Bathville Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-494-8424 | wikidata=Q6395536 | hours= | price=Adults $29, seniors (65+) $27, teens $24, children (3-12) $19 | lastedit=2022-08-07 | content=A 90-min, 16-km round-trip on the only remaining part of the historic Kettle Valley Railway. Disembark and enjoy the view from the '''Trout Creek Trestle''', 73 m (238 ft) above the creek. It operates May-October, December, Mothers Day, and Easter. Reservations required. }} ==Buy== * {{Buy|name=Summerland Sweets|url=https://summerlandsweets.com/|address=6206 Canyon View Rd|lat=49.56856|long=-119.65802|phone=+1 250-494-0377|tollfree=+1-800-577-1277|lastedit=2023-03-18|content=Homemade preserves, fruit leather, and ice cream.}} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Cellar Door Bistro | alt= | url=https://sumacridge.com/ | email= | address=17403 Hwy 97 N | lat=49.61965 | long=-119.68057 | directions=part of Sumac Ridge Estate Winery | phone=+1 250-494-0451 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content= }} * {{eat | name=Zias Stonehouse Pub | alt= | url=https://ziasstonehouse.com/ | email= | address=14015 Rosedale Ave | lat=49.60547 | long=-119.67721 | directions= | phone =+1 250 494-1105 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content=Upscale dining in an old converted stone house. }} * {{eat | name=Second Home Cafe & Grill | alt= | url=https://www.secondhome-cafeandgrill.com/ | email= | address=13229 Henry Ave | lat=49.60291 | long=-119.68186 | directions= | phone =+1 250-494-7811 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content=Locally owned and operated. Standard fare. Good prices. }} * {{Eat|name=Yaki's Pizza and Subs|url=https://yakispizza.com/|address=9902 Main St|lat=49.60151|long=-119.68109|phone=+1 250-494-7600|lastedit=2023-03-18|content=Try the tank sub. If you can eat it all in one sitting you probably need to go on a diet.}} ==Drink== * {{Drink|name=Peacock's Perch Pub|url=https://www.peacocksperchpub.com/|address=14218 Rosedale Ave|lat=49.60646|long=-119.67782|phone=+1 250-494-9727|lastedit=2023-03-18|content=The only pub in uppertown. Pub menu. Friendly staff. Pool table, darts. Pub-style menu.}} *{{Drink|name=Shaughnessy's Cove|address=12817 Lakeshore Dr N|lat=49.60088|long=-119.65269|directions=set on Lake Okanagan|phone=+1 250-494-8855|lastedit=2023-03-18|content=It offers a fantastic view and good food.}} For nightclubs, you will have to go fifteen minutes south to [[Penticton]]. === Wineries === Wine from one of the many local '''wineries'''. New wineries pop up all the time. And old ones change hands or names. Note, winery store hours vary seasonally. * {{drink | name=8th Generation Vineyard | alt= | url=https://8thgeneration.com/ | email=info@8thgeneration.com | address=6807 Highway 97 | lat=49.57873 | long=-119.63557 | directions= | phone=+1 250-494-1783 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content= }} * {{drink | name=Dirty Laundry Vineyard | alt= | url=https://www.dirtylaundry.ca/ | email=TheMadam@dirtylaundry.ca | address=7311 Fiske Street | lat=49.56626 | long=-119.66427 | directions= | phone =+1 250-494-8815 | tollfree= | fax=+1 250 494-8850 | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content=Vineyard with excellent views of the steam railway. Ask the staff about the story of the establishment. Their slogan is "Wine is Fun". Formerly Scherzinger Vineyards. }} * {{drink | name=Heaven's Gate Estate Winery | alt= | url=https://heavensgatewinery.com/ | email= | address=8001 Happy Valley Rd | lat=49.58095 | long=-119.65212 | directions= | phone =+1 778-516-5505 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content= }} * {{drink | name=Sumac Ridge Estate Winery | alt= | url=https://sumacridge.com/ | email= | address=17403 Highway 97 | lat=49.61969 | long=-119.68050 | directions= | phone =+1 250-494-0451 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content=The first estate winery in BC has been in business since 1981. }} * {{drink | name=Thornhaven Estate Winery | alt= | url=https://www.thornhaven.com/ | email= | address=6816 Andrews Avenue | lat=49.57610 | long=-119.66626 | directions= | phone =+1 250-494-7778 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content= }} ==Sleep== ===Bed and breakfast=== * {{sleep | name=Catbird Ridge | alt= | url=https://catbirdridge.com/ | email=catbirdridgeinfo@gmail.com | address=17404 Logie Rd | lat=49.61907 | long=-119.67025 | directions= | phone=+1 250 494-6845 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content= }} * {{sleep | name=Wildhorse Mountain Ranch | alt= | url=https://wildhorsemountainranch.com/ | email= | address=25808 Wild Horse Road | lat=49.65534 | long=-119.71999 | directions= | phone =+1 250 494-0506 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content= }} ===Hotels and motels=== * {{sleep | name=Rosedale Motel | alt= | url=https://www.rosedalemotel.com/ | email= | address=14001 Rosedale Ave | lat=49.60491 | long=-119.67710 | directions= | phone =+1 250-494-6431 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pleasant View Motel & RV Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=13608 Highway 97 | lat=49.60398 | long=-119.66633 | directions= | phone =+1 250 494-7406 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content= }} * {{sleep | name=Summerland Waterfront Resort | alt= | url=https://summerlandresorthotel.com/ | email= | address=13011 Lakeshore Dr | lat=49.60126 | long=-119.65324 | directions= | phone =+1 250-494-8180 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content= }} * {{sleep | name=Summerland Motel | alt= | url=https://www.summerlandmotel.com/ | email= | address=2107 Tait St | lat=49.57381 | long=-119.63176 | directions= | phone=+1 250-494-4444 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2023-03-18| content= }} * == Cope == * The nearest hospital is in [[Penticton]]. ==Go next== {{routebox | placename=Summerland | image1=BC-97.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Kelowna]] | minorl1=[[Peachland]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Osoyoos]] | minorr1='''[[Penticton]]''' }} {{IsPartOf|Okanagan}} {{usablecity}} {{geo|49.6005556|-119.677778}} j09ce6cpfvxf1x15v0no6nvvwfcl2mr 0 34810 5090720 5090111 2025-07-10T12:07:28Z 2.68.182.57 /* Nature */ added on drones and metal detectors 5090720 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Marmorbruket Norrköping banner.jpg|caption=Marmorbruket, Östergötland|disambig=yes}} '''Sweden''' ([[Swedish phrasebook|Swedish]]: ''Sverige'') is the largest of the [[Nordic countries]] by area and population. Visitors can experience deep forests and many lakes, the heritage from the [[Viking Age]] and the 17th-century [[Swedish Empire]], the glamour of the [[Nobel Prize]], and [[Nordic music|the country's successful pop music scene]]. Sweden has 270,000 islands with many open to visit through the [[right to roam]]. ==Regions== {{mapframe|height=450|width=300}} The three traditional lands of Sweden, '''Götaland''', '''Svealand''' and '''Norrland''', are further divided into 25 provinces (''landskap''), which largely define Swedish people's cultural identity. The provinces mostly coincide with the 21 counties (''län''), the mid-level political entities. The 290 municipalities (''kommun''), are the bottom-level political entities, typically consisting of a town or a city, and the surrounding countryside, including small villages. Some municipalities used to hold city (''stad'') privileges, and still style themselves as such, though there is no legal distinction. Most municipalities have their own visitor centre. {{Regionlist | regionmap= | regionmaptext=Regions of Sweden | regionmapsize=350px | region1name=[[Norrland]] | region1color=#D5DC76 | region1items=[[Norrbotten County]], [[Västerbotten County]], [[Västernorrland County]], [[Jämtland County]] and [[Gävleborg County]] | region1description=A sparsely populated area spanning more than half of Sweden. Lots of wilderness, with forests, lakes, great rivers, enormous marshes and tall mountains along the border to Norway. Great for [[outdoor life]] and [[winter sport]]. | region2name= [[Svealand]] | region2color=#4F93C0 | region2items=[[Dalarna]], [[Närke]], [[Södermanland]], ([[Örebro County]]), [[Värmland]], [[Stockholm County]], [[Uppsala County]] and [[Västmanland]] | region2description=The central part of the country and homeland of the Swedes, with cities such as [[Stockholm]], [[Uppsala]] and [[Örebro]], and a heritage of mining and metallurgy. | region3name=[[Götaland]] | region3color=#B5D29F | region3items=[[Scania]], [[Blekinge]], [[Småland]], [[Öland]], [[Gotland]], [[Östergötland]], [[Halland]], [[Västergötland]], [[Bohuslän]] and [[Dalsland]] | region3description=Homeland of the Geats and probable place of origin of the [[Goths]]. Many cultural and historical sights from Medieval cities and cathedrals to amusement parks, and Sweden's largest lakes, ''Vänern'' and ''Vättern''. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#D5DC76|title=[[Norrland]]|wikidata=Q203505}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#4F93C0|title=[[Svealand]]|wikidata=Q203835}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#B5D29F|title=[[Götaland]]|wikidata=Q201694}} ==Cities== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Stockholm]]|lat=59.329444|long=18.068611|wikidata=Q1754}} is Sweden's capital and largest city, spread out over several islands. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Gothenburg]]|lat=57.7|long=11.966667|wikidata=Q25287}} (Swedish: ''Göteborg'') is Sweden's largest port and industrial centre, second in population. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Karlskrona]]|lat=56.160833|long=15.586111|wikidata=Q25789}} is a [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]], as the base for Sweden's navy since the 17th century. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Linköping]]|lat=58.415833|long=15.625278|wikidata=Q25413}} has a large university, and is the birthplace of Sweden's aviation industry. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Lund]]|lat=55.7000|long=13.2000|wikidata=Q2167}} is a lively pretty university city with a Viking Age heritage. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Malmö]]|lat=55.605833|long=13.035833|wikidata=Q2211}}, with a quarter million inhabitants, is connected to the Danish capital Copenhagen by the Öresund Bridge. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Umeå]]|lat=63.825|long=20.263889|wikidata=Q25579}} is the largest city in Norrland, known for its silver birches and university. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Uppsala]]|lat=59.858056|long=17.644722|wikidata=Q25286}}, once the centre of Viking era Sweden, is home to the largest cathedral and oldest university in the Nordic countries. *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Visby]]|lat=57.634722|long=18.299167|wikidata=Q54757}} is the only city on the [[Gotland]] island, a [[Hanseatic League]] centre of commerce with an impressive city wall. ==Other destinations== <!-- Following Swedish alphabet, with Å, Ä and Ö at the end --> *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bergslagen]]|lat=59.8|long=15.8|wikidata=Q820245}} is the traditional heartland of Swedish metallurgy and mining. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ekerö]]|lat=59.283333|long=17.8|wikidata=Q384083}} is a freshwater archipelago with the Royal family's residence Drottningholm, and Viking Age settlement Birka. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[High Coast]]|lat=62.94|long=18.19|wikidata=Q849273}} (Swedish: ''Höga kusten'') is the most scenic area along the Norrland coast. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kiruna Municipality]]|lat=67.85|long=20.216667|wikidata=Q499474}} ([[Sami phrasebook|Sami]]: ''Giron'') at Sweden's northernmost edge is known for a large mine, a space flight centre, the [[Jukkasjärvi]] ice hotel and [[Abisko]] national park. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Laponia]]|lat=67.33333|long=17.58333|wikidata=Q1137314}} is Western Europe's largest wilderness, in the Arctic. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Siljansbygden]]|lat=60.85|long=14.8|wikidata=Q14233837}} is an archetype of Swedish folk culture in central [[Dalarna]]. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Stockholm archipelago]]|lat=59.38778|long=18.73581|wikidata=Q764547}} (Swedish: ''Stockholms skärgård'') consists of islands all shapes and sizes. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Åre]]|lat=63.4|long=13.083333|wikidata=Q271138}} is one of Sweden's largest ski resorts, with 44 lifts. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Öland]]|lat=56.733333|long=16.666667|wikidata=Q239276}} is Sweden's second largest island, with long beaches. ==Understand== {{NordicCountries}} {{quickbar|location=LocationSweden.png}} The "Nordic model" of economics and social policy was largely developed by Swedish social democrats and liberals during the early 20th century. The foundation is a strong welfare state, combined with market economics. Swedish society, as it has become through this policy, is often described as "folkhemmet", comparing solidarity in the society with that in a family: {{quote|The Home's foundation is community and unity. The good Home knows no privileged or expelled ones, no favourites or step-children. There, no one looks down on one another. There, no one tries to get an advantage at another's cost, the strong does not oppress or plunder the weak.|author=Per Albin Hansson, Social Democratic Prime Minister 1932—1946.}} ===History=== In ancient times, Sweden was inhabited by the Suiones (''svear'') in [[Svealand]] and the Geats (''götar'') in Götaland. Some of these participated in Viking expeditions (see [[Vikings and the Old Norse]]), and are said to have founded the first kingdoms in [[Russia]]. Written sources from the Viking Age are few and short. Around AD 1000, Christianity replaced Norse paganism, Suiones and Geats united under one king (probably Olof Skötkonung), and the first cities were founded; among them [[Sigtuna]], [[Uppsala]] and [[Skara]]. With Christianity came written chronicles and stone architecture, which have provided the afterworld with better historical detail than earlier remnants. Swedish kings Christianized and annexed [[Finland]]. During the 14th and 15th century, Sweden was a subject of the Kalmar Union with Norway and Denmark. Gustav Vasa liberated Sweden from Danish rule, was elected king in 1523, and is regarded the founder of modern Sweden. He also reformed the church to Lutheran-Protestant. Today, the monarch is still constitutionally required to be a Lutheran, though contemporary Swedish society is largely secular, with only a minority of Swedes going to church regularly. During the 17th century [[Swedish Empire|Sweden rose as a Great Power]], through several successful wars (such as the [[Thirty Years' War]]), where kings such as Gustavus Adolphus and Charles X annexed [[Scania]], [[Halland]] and [[Bohuslän]] from [[Denmark]], as well as temporary possessions in the [[Baltic countries]] and [[northern Germany]]. In the early 18th century, an alliance of Denmark, Poland and the [[Russian Empire]] defeated Swedish king Charles XII, marking the end of the Swedish Empire. In 1809, Sweden was again defeated by Russia, which annexed Finland. The country has been at peace since 1814; the country has a high peace profile, with internationally renowned names such as Raoul Wallenberg, Dag Hammarskjöld, Olof Palme and Hans Blix. Sweden is a monarchy by constitution, but King Carl XVI Gustaf has no executive power. Sweden is a developed post-industrial society with an advanced welfare state. The standard of living and life expectancy rank among the highest in the world. Sweden joined the European Union in 1995, but decided by a referendum in 2003 not to commit to the European Monetary Union and the euro currency. Sweden has a strong tradition of being an open, yet discreet country. Citizens sometimes appear to be quite reserved at first, but once they get to know who they are dealing with, they'll be as warm and friendly as you'd wish. Privacy is regarded as a key item and many visitors, for example mega-stars in various lines of trade, have many times realized that they mostly can walk the streets of the cities virtually undisturbed. Sweden houses the Nobel Prize committee for all the prizes except the peace prize, which is hosted in Oslo, a memento of the Swedish-Norwegian union that was dissolved in 1905. In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Sweden abandoned its longstanding policy of neutrality and joined NATO in 2024. ===The year in Sweden=== {{quote|Swedish summer is the most beautiful day of the year.|author=Swedish joke}} {{seealso|Winter in the Nordic countries}} [[File:Gävle goat on December 21, 2009.jpg|thumb|The [[Gävle]] Goat, a Christmas decoration known to be targeted by arsonists.]] The weather in Sweden is typically cool or [[cold weather|cold]] from October to April, but in the summer (late May to early September) temperatures lie around 20 °C. If you like snow, go to [[Norrland]] or [[Dalarna]] in January to April. In Sweden there are no earthquakes or volcanoes to be worried about. There are seasonal storms though, mostly in the early spring and in the autumn. Occasional heavy rainfall makes the many rivers swell and in some cases cause flooding. During dry summers counties may issue warnings or even bans on the use of open fire. Daylight varies greatly during the year. In Stockholm, the sun sets at 15:00 in December. In June and July, however, summer nights exist only in the form of prolonged twilight. North of the Arctic Circle one can experience the [[midnight sun]] around Midsummer and the Arctic night in midwinter. The major holidays are Easter (''påsk''), National Day of Sweden or Swedish Flag Day (''nationaldagen'' or ''svenska flaggans dag'', June 6), Midsummer (''midsommar'', celebrated from the eve of the Friday between June 19–25), Christmas (''jul'', Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day are all considered holidays). Most celebration happens on the '''day before''' the holiday proper; Midsummer's Eve, Christmas Eve etc. Expect everything to be closed in the countryside during the National Day and Midsummer. There are three periods of the year when Swedes traditionally have their vacations. To avoid fully booked venues, heavy traffic and crowded tourist resorts in the summer, you should either book in time or stay clear of July and the first two weeks of August. These six weeks are weather-wise usually the most enjoyable for a summer vacation in all of Sweden. Winter vacation (''sportlov'') is usually a week in February or March depending on when kids have time off from school. This time of year is high season for tourism in all of Lappland, Dalarna and some winter resorts in Southern Sweden. Autumn vacation (''höstlov'') is a week around the end of October and the beginning of November. This period has become a time of reading and reflection, so people tend to stay at home getting used to the dark winter evenings. ===Electricity and utilities=== Sweden uses 230 V 50 Hz electricity with the F/Schuko outlets (compatible with the euro plug). Supply is reliable, though the countryside might have blackouts during severe storms. Electricity is available everywhere except at the most remote cabins. ===Tourist information === * {{listing | name=Visit Sweden | alt= | url=https://visitsweden.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-01-31 | content= }} ==Talk== {{seealso|Swedish phrasebook}} [[File:U 181, Össeby-Garn.JPG|thumb|The Rök runestone in [[Östergötland]] is the world's largest of its kind. It was erected in the 9th century and written in Old Norse, the predecessor of the Swedish language.]] '''[[Swedish phrasebook|Swedish]]''' (''svenska'') is the national language of Sweden. It is closely related to [[Danish phrasebook|Danish]] and [[Norwegian phrasebook|Norwegian]], and mutually intelligible with those languages to a certain degree — especially in written form. While [[Finnish phrasebook|Finnish]] (the largest minority language) as well as the less spoken [[Northern Sámi phrasebook|Sami]], Meänkeäli, Yiddish and Romani languages are officially recognized, practically everyone born in Sweden speaks Swedish. Regardless of what your native tongue is, Swedes appreciate an attempt to speak Swedish, and beginning conversations in Swedish, no matter how rudimentary your level is, will help to ingratiate you to locals. '''English''' is widely spoken in Sweden, and most younger adults have near native proficiency. If you're trying to speak Swedish and it does not sound native, do not be surprised if locals respond in English. Do not take this personally; they are not trying to be rude, but just trying to make communication less awkward. In case your English is also rudimentary you can expect the communication to end or the locals trying to find someone that can help them to communicate. '''Hej''' (''hey'') is the massively dominant greeting in Sweden, useful on kings and bums alike. You can even say it when you leave. The Swedes most often do not say "please" ('''snälla''' say SNELL-la), instead they are generous with the word '''tack''' (''tack''), meaning "thanks". If you need to get someone's attention, whether it's a waiter or you need to pass someone one in a crowded situation, a simple "'''ursäkta'''" (say "OR-sek-ta") ("excuse me") will do the trick. You will find yourself pressed to overuse it, and you sometimes see people almost chanting it as a mantra when trying to exit a crowded place like a bus or train. Some things get English names that do not correspond to the original English word, such as '''light''', which is used for low-calorie products, and '''freestyle''', which means "walkman". Sweden uses the [[Metric and imperial equivalents|metric system]]. Two '''units''' may be confusing: Swedish miles, ''mil'' (10 km), are commonly used in spoken language for distances such as between cities (if you hear 'mile', make sure it indeed refers to international miles), and some foodstuff is sold by hectogram {{nowrap|(100 g).}} For dates, the ISO 8601 standard (yyyy-mm-dd) is in wide use, in parallel with the more traditional d/m yyyy and dd.mm.yyyy. The decimal separator in Swedish is the comma, thus 1.000 is a thousand and 1,000 is one, and Swedish uses the long scale, thus ''en biljon'' is a trillion, not a billion (which is ''en miljard''). Foreign television programmes and films are almost always shown in their original language with Swedish subtitles, with only children's programmes dubbed into Swedish. ==Get in== [[File:Öresundsbron från Lernacken.jpg|thumb|The Öresund Bridge connects Sweden to [[Denmark]].]] ===Entry requirements=== {{Schengen}} Nordic citizens can stay indefinitely regardless of the purpose of their stay. Visitors coming in from other Schengen countries (such as Norway and Finland) can usually enter Sweden without any inspections, in a land vehicle, on foot, or by boat, as long as they do not carry goods to declare. The ferries from Finland may however want to check your ID (which should state your nationality) – and there are usually "temporary" border controls when coming from Denmark. Restricted goods include but are not limited to [http://essext.tullverket.se/cash/#/start cash]{{Dead link|date=April 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} in the equivalence of €10,000 and more, [http://essext.tullverket.se/animal/#/start pets]{{Dead link|date=April 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, firearms, as well as wholesale commodities. These must be declared at a toll station. The [http://www.tullverket.se/en/ Swedish Customs] (''Tull'') is a law enforcement agency, that is entitled to arrest people using due force. ===By plane=== For arrival and departure times, and for lots of other information about flights and airports in Sweden, visit '''[http://www.lfv.se Luftfartsverket]''' (Swedish Airports and Air Navigation Services). Most airports can be reached by the airport coaches of '''[http://www.flygbussarna.se Flygbussarna]''' for around 70–120&nbsp;kr, but some are well served also by normal public transport. Major airports: * '''[http://www.arlanda.se Stockholm Arlanda]''' ({{IATA|ARN}}) is Sweden's main airport, {{km|40}} from the centre of Stockholm, with flights departing from all over Europe, but also from North America, the Middle East, China, Japan, Thailand, and Ethiopia. It is a base for flag carrier Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) but also for Norwegian Air Shuttle, and Ryanair. * '''[https://www.swedavia.se/landvetter/ Göteborg Landvetter]''' ({{IATA|GOT}}), {{km|25}} from [[Gothenburg]] in southern Sweden, has flights from most major European airports. * '''[[Copenhagen Airport]]''' ({{IATA|CPH}}), on an island between [[Copenhagen]] and [[Malmö]], is Scandinavia's largest air hub, served by most major airlines, and the main hub for SAS Scandinavian Airlines. Direct rail line from the airport to southern Sweden allows it to serve most of the region conveniently. * '''[[Oslo Airport, Gardermoen]]''' ({{IATA|OSL}}) in [[Norway]] can be considered for destinations in western Sweden, especially to [[Värmland]]. Smaller airports: * '''[http://www.skavsta.se/en/ Stockholm Skavsta]''' ({{IATA|NYO}}) is mainly served by budget airlines like [http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair] and [http://www.wizzair.com Wizzair], with many connections to Europe, especially the [[Balkans]]. In [[Nyköping]], quite a distance (about 100&nbsp;km) from Stockholm. * '''[http://www.swedavia.com/bromma/ Stockholm Bromma]''' ({{IATA|BMA}}), 6 km west of central Stockholm, has been under threat of closure for many years and, as of 2025, few flights remain. *'''[http://www.vasterasflygplats.se/ Stockholm Västerås]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' ({{IATA|VST}}) — international flights from Copenhagen and London. Also about 100&nbsp;km from Stockholm. * '''[http://www.swedavia.com/malmo/ Malmö-Sturup]''' ({{IATA|MMX}}) — serves domestic flights and low fares flights. It's about 30&nbsp;km from [[Malmö]]. * '''[http://www.jonkopingairport.se/engelska/jonkoping-airport.html Jönköping Airport]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' ({{IATA|JKG}}) connects to Stockholm, Visby, Frankfurt and destinations in southern Europe. ===By train=== [[File:Nattaget Are Vinter .jpg|thumb|Sleeper trains run to [[Åre]], a ski resort in [[Jämtland]]]] {{see also|Rail and bus travel in Sweden}} You can reach Sweden by train from neighbouring countries, and some more distant ones: * '''Denmark''': Trains depart [[Copenhagen]] and [[Copenhagen Airport|Copenhagen's airport]] for [[Malmö]] every 20 minutes, and cost only about 100 Swedish kronor ("Öresundståg / Øresundstog" regional trains). The train goes over the magnificent ''Öresund Bridge'' to get to Sweden in less than 30 minutes. Furthermore direct trains ([http://sj.se SJ]) leave from Copenhagen to [[Stockholm]]. Tickets are purchased in machines, or for SJ also on the web. Danish Rejsekort can also be used if your destination is one of the three stops in Malmö. Be aware that the two operators do not recognize each other's tickets. The [[Helsingør]]-[[Helsingborg]] connection, known as one of the busiest ferry routes in Europe, might also be used (local trains from Copenhagen, change to ship). * '''Finland''': The Torneå/Muonionjoki river valley has seasonal train service on the Finnish side (up to [[Kolari]], by [[Pajala]]). From the station in [[Tornio]] the station in [[Haparanda]] is within easy reach. There are no direct train connections, as Finland and Sweden use different rail gauges. Haparanda has some trains, but you can also take the bus to [[Luleå]] or [[Boden]], with night train connection to Stockholm. Interrail tickets are valid on that bus, otherwise tickets are purchased from the driver. Off season you can use the year-round daily connections to [[Kemi]], with bus to Tornio. * '''Norway''': Main connections between [[Oslo]] and [[Stockholm]] and [[Gothenburg]] as well as connections on the lines [[Trondheim]]–[[Åre]]–[[Östersund]] and [[Narvik]]–[[Kiruna]]–[[Boden]]–[[Stockholm]]. * '''Germany''': Direct overnight trains run daily from [[Berlin]] to Stockholm via [[Hamburg]] and [[Malmö]], operated by SJ, along with a competing service operated by [http://www.snalltaget.se Snälltåget]. The latter service is extended to [[Dresden]] on select dates, but does not run in the winter. There are also several trains per day from [[Hamburg]] to [[Copenhagen]], just across the Öresund strait from Malmö. * '''Austria''': Weekly overnight trains are offered winter and summer from Austrian ski resorts via Hamburg and [[Munich]] to Malmö, operated by Snälltåget. ===By bus=== [[File:Svinesund10okt2004ny.jpg|thumb|The Svinesund bridge connects southern Sweden to [[Norway]] (E6).]] From western and central Europe via [[Copenhagen]] by '''[https://global.flixbus.com/ Flixbus]''' or [http://www.nettbuss.se '''Nettbuss''']. Buses from and to the Western Balkans are also operated by [http://www.toptourist.dk/index.html '''Toptourist'''] {{dead link|December 2020}}. Call + 46 (0 ) 42 18 29 84 for more information. There are buses from [[Tornio]] in Finland, and, e.g., from [[Oslo]], [[Bodø]] and [[Mo i Rana]] in Norway. ===By car=== From Norway and northern Finland there are many border crossings. Norway is not part of EU, so visit customs. Nearly all the ferries to Sweden take cars. From Germany, a car ferry is needed when going directly to Sweden or via the Jutland peninsula in Denmark. See how to get in by boat. The exception to the rule is to take the Great Belt Bridge in combination with the Öresund Bridge as a ferry-free drive via Denmark to Sweden (Autobahn 7 to the Danish border — Motorway E45 to [[Kolding]] — Motorway E20 to [[Malmö]], Sweden). This is however a 170-km detour, and the bridges have heavy tolls. Going via the Danish isles to Sweden is also possible (Autobahn 1 to [[Puttgarden]] — Scandlines car ferry to [[Rødby]] — Motorway E47 to [[Helsingør]] — Scandlines car ferry to [[Helsingborg]], Sweden) or a combination of the two routes switching from E20 to E47 or vice versa on [[Zealand]]. Before you decide on the route, do check out the prices on the ferries going directly from Germany to Sweden, since they can be much cheaper. ===By boat=== {{see also|Baltic Sea ferries}} [[File:Viking line's MS Gabriella in Stockholm.jpg|thumb|The [[Baltic Sea ferries]] have the cheapest accommodation in Scandinavia, [[duty-free shopping]], and a view of the [[Stockholm archipelago]].]] Before the Öresund Bridge was opened in July 2000, the Scandinavian peninsula could only be reached by boat, unless going very far north. Still, boat traffic is very important to Sweden. ====Belgium==== * From [[Ghent]] to [[Gothenburg]] by [http://freight.dfdsseaways.com/dfds_ferries/north_sea_ferries/gothenburg_ghent_ferries/ DFDS Torline] ([[Freighter travel|cargo line]] with limited passenger capacity) ====Denmark==== * From [[Grenå]] to [[Halmstad]] by [http://www.stenaline.com Stena Line]. * From [[Frederikshavn]] to [[Gothenburg]] by Stena Line. * From [[Helsingør]] to [[Helsingborg]] by [https://www.scandlines.com/ Scandlines] and [http://www.sundbusserne.dk Sundsbusserne]. The latter does not take motorised vehicles. ====Estonia==== * From [[Tallinn]] to [[Stockholm]] (via [[Helsinki]]) by [http://www.sales.vikingline.com/ Viking Line]. * From Tallinn to Stockholm (direct connection) by [http://www.tallink.com Tallink]. ====Finland==== * From [[Helsinki]] to [[Stockholm]] (via [[Åland]]) by [http://www.siljaline.se Tallink Silja] and [http://www.sales.vikingline.com/ Viking Line]. * From Naantali to [[Kapellskär]] by [http://www.finnlines.com/ferry-trips/ Finnlines]. * From [[Turku]] to Stockholm (via [[Åland]]) by Tallink Silja and Viking Line. * From [[Vaasa]] to [[Umeå]] by [http://www.wasaline.com/en/?market=en Wasaline]. ====Latvia==== * From [[Riga]] to Stockholm by [http://www.tallinksilja.com/en/web/int/stockholm-riga Tallink] (temporarily suspended). * From [[Ventspils]] to [[Nynäshamn]] by [http://www.stenaline.co.uk/rest-of-europe Stena Line]. ====Lithuania==== * From [[Klaipėda]] to [[Karlshamn]] by [http://www.dfdsseaways.se DFDS Seaways]. * From Klaipėda to Karlshamn and [[Trelleborg]] by [https://www.ttline.com/en/ TT-Line]. ====Germany==== * From [[Travemünde]] to [[Trelleborg]] by [https://www.ttline.com/en/ TT-Line]. * From Travemünde to [[Malmö]] by [http://www.finnlines.com/ferry-trips/ Finnlines]. * From [[Kiel]] to [[Gothenburg]] by Stena Line. * From [[Rostock]] to Trelleborg by Scandlines and TT-Line. * From [[Sassnitz]] to Trelleborg by [https://www.frs-baltic.com/en/timetable-prices/timetable-prices FRS Baltic] (April to October). * Via Denmark ** From [[Puttgarden]] to [[Rødby]] in Denmark by Scandlines. Continue via the Helsingør to Helsingborg ferry, or the bridge to Malmö. ** From Rostock to [[Gedser]] in Denmark by Scandlines. Continue via the Helsingør to Helsingborg ferry, or the bridge to Malmö. ====Norway==== * From [[Sandefjord]] to [[Strömstad]] by [http://www.colorline.com Color Line] ====Poland==== * From [[Gdańsk]] to Nynäshamn by [https://polferries.com/ Polferries]. * From Gdańsk to [[Visby]] by Polferries. * From [[Gdynia]] to [[Karlskrona]] by [http://www.stenaline.pl/en/ferries/ Stena Line]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. * From [[Świnoujście]] to [[Ystad]] by Polferries. ====Russia==== * From [[Saint Petersburg]] to Stockholm by [http://anastasia.stpeterline.com/en/OnBoard/News.aspx St. Peter Line]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. ==Get around== [[File:SL Class X40.jpg|thumb|The X40 train, used on many regional routes, has an upper deck, which gives a good view of the Swedish scenery.]] The ancient '''[[right to access]]''' (''allemansrätten'') grants everybody a right to move freely on most land on foot, swimming, by horse, by ski, by bicycle or by boat, even on privately owned property – but not through private yards. With the right comes an obligation to respect the privacy of people and the integrity of nature. It is important to understand the limitations. ===By plane=== Domestic flights are mainly for travellers with more money than time, and for the vast distances of [[Norrland]]. There are low-price tickets, but they must be bought well in advance. The most important domestic airlines: *'''[http://www.sas.se/en/ SAS]''' — the international airline, and flag carrier, has many domestic routes as well. *'''[http://www.norwegian.se Norwegian]''' — several domestic and international destinations. *'''[https://www.flygbra.se/home BRA]{{cbignore}}''' — several regional flights to most domestic airports. *'''[https://www.amapola.nu Amapola]''' — several domestic routes and also flights to [[Norway]]. ===By train=== {{seealso|Rail and bus travel in Sweden}} Sweden has an extensive railway network. Most long-range lines are operated by the government-owned company '''[http://www.sj.se/?l=en SJ]'''. To buy a railway ticket, or to obtain information, call [tel:+46771757575 +46 771 75 75 75], check their website, or download their mobile app. [https://vrresa.se/en '''VR'''] also operates several trains between Gothenburg and Stockholm. Because point-to-point tickets are quite expensive, for more train journeys, a [http://www.interrail.eu/interrail-passes/one-country-pass/sweden Sweden InterRail]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (for European citizens) or [http://www.scandinavianrail.com Eurail]{{Dead link|date=September 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot}} (for non-European citizens) pass might be useful. Purchasing single journey tickets online in advance can also help save money, although the cheapest tickets often come with more restrictions. The national public transport carriers operate an alliance service called '''Resplus''' for multiple-leg travel. See [http://reseplanerare.resrobot.se/bin/query.exe/en Resrobot] for an interactive journey planner. Regional public transport typically has a carrier per county. For instance, when travelling regionally in the province of [[Scania]] (''Skåne'' in Swedish), one should refer to [http://www.skanetrafiken.se '''Skånetrafiken''']. For travelling in the region of Mälardalen (the "Lake Mälaren Valley"), you can check all train and bus operators at '''[http://www.timinfo.se Trafik i Mälardalen]'''. This regional traffic cooperation includes many of Sweden's major cities, such as ''Stockholm'', ''Uppsala'', ''Västerås'', ''Linköping'', ''Norrköping'', ''Örebro'' and ''Eskilstuna''. ===By bus=== '''[https://global.flixbus.com/ Flixbus]''' and [http://www.nettbuss.se '''Nettbuss'''] runs a number of bus lines in the southern third of the country, Götaland and Svealand. They tend to cost less than going by train, if you can't take advantage of SJ's youth discounts. '''[http://www.ybuss.se Y-buss] {{dead link|August 2020|December 2020}}''', '''[http://www.tapanis.se/ tapanis]''', and '''[http://www.harjedalingen.se Härjedalingen]''' operate between Stockholm and Norrland. Flixbus also operates from Stockholm and Göteborg to Oslo. At the county or ''län'' level, buses are a good method for travelling short distances from town to town, as they are more frequent and cheaper than trains. It is best to check with the local transportation authority for routes and schedules. * [http://bus4you.se/ '''Bus4You'''] is a high-comfort carrier. ==== City buses ==== City buses are operated by the counties' public-transport companies. If you plan to use city buses, check out the local arrangements for how to obtain tickets. In many Swedish cities it is not possible to buy tickets for the city buses at the bus. In this case neither cash nor bank or credit cards are accepted. Instead you need an electronic bus card, a special card for each region, that sometimes also has to be filled with a minimum amount of money, typically 100&nbsp;kr. This bus card can sometimes be obtained only at dedicated ticket offices, not at the bus, but can often be filled with money for travel at local shops or refill machines that are found at public places. On long distance buses, passengers can normally buy tickets from the driver. ===By car=== [[File:High Coast Bridge (Högakustenbron).jpg|thumb|Swedish highways range from monotonous to spectacular. ''[[Höga kusten]]'' in [[Ångermanland]] is an example of the latter.]] :''See also: [[Driving in Sweden]] and [[Winter driving]]'' [[Svealand]] and [[Götaland]] can be crossed by car within a day, but distances in [[Norrland]] tend to be larger, and settlements can be tens of kilometres apart. When available, air or rail travel are often faster. Travelling by night can be dangerous due to [[animal collisions|wild animals on the roads]], and the cold nights during the winter. See [[E4 through Sweden]] and [[E6 through Sweden and Norway]] for two of the main highways. While traffic is less aggressive than in Denmark or Central Europe, traffic jams are common around Stockholm and Gothenburg. Car crash rates in Sweden are among the lowest in Europe. Wearing a '''seatbelt''' is mandatory for everyone in the car. Driving tired is illegal and is treated the same way as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. [[Animal collisions]] with moose, deer and boar are a major danger; these animals are commonly on the road, especially around dawn and dusk. The moose is a big and heavy animal (up to 700&nbsp;kg and 2.1 m shoulder height) so a collision can be lethal. Drunk driving is a serious crime, the laws are strictly enforced, and the punishments are harsh by international standards. The legal limit of 0.02% is lower than in most other western countries and as little as '''one beer may put you over the limit'''. Violations carry a hefty fine and/or a prison sentence of up to 6 months, while serious violations of 0.1% and higher carry a guaranteed prison sentence of up to 2 years. Be sure to either bring a designated driver, take a taxi or make use of public transport if you plan on drinking. The Stockholm port at Frihamnen has ''alcogates'': an automated breathalyzer which reports drunk drivers to police. ==== Scenic routes ==== [[Image:Sweden_road_sign_I1.svg|thumb|Road sign for scenic routes.]] Sweden has a small but growing network of designated scenic routes, they are often minor roads with limited traffic and speeds not exceeding 80 km/h. ===By ferry=== Road ferries (ferries that constitute part of public roads) are yellow, run by '''[https://www.trafikverket.se/farjerederiet/ Färjerederiet]'''. An online map service showing all available road ferries and their daily schedule can be found on [https://www.trafikverket.se/trafikinformation/vag/?TrafficType=personalTraffic&map=0%2F650778%2F7200000%2F&Layers=Ferries%2b Trafikverket's website]. The Swedish archipelagoes have boat services provided by the local county transport authority, in Swedish called ''skärgårdstrafik''. * '''[https://www.destinationgotland.se/en Destination Gotland]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' runs domestic ferry lines from [[Nynäshamn]] and [[Oskarshamn]] to [[Visby]], Gotland. * '''[http://olandsfarjan.se/ Ölandsfärjan]''' runs a domestic ferry line in the summer season (mid-June to mid-August) between Oskarshamn and Byxelkrok on [[Öland]]. * '''[http://www.ventrafiken.se/en/ Ventrafiken]''' runs a domestic ferry line between [[Landskrona]] and [[Ven]] in Scania. ===By taxi=== [[Image:Stockholm taxi pricey vs cheap.jpg|thumb|300px|'''Taxi price info:''' Never step into a Swedish taxi without checking the yellow price sign on the rear window first. It tells the price for a typical 10 km, 15-minute journey, with the max rate written in larger numbers. The large number should be around 350&nbsp;kr for a Stockholm cab. It rarely exceeds 499 kr, because if it does the driver is obliged to give passengers a binding price statement for the journey before it starts.]] Taxis are generally comfortable and, in the larger cities, easy to find. Check the price info on the rear window before entering, and do use the seat belt. If you are travelling with a toddler call in advance to get a cab with a proper child seat, or the driver may refuse you. Outside the bigger cities it makes sense to note the contact information of one or a few companies with decent pricing and enough presence in the city you are visiting. * {{listing | type=go | name=TaxiKurir | url=https://www.taxikurir.se/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-21 | content=Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. Includes several cities around Sweden. }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Sverigetaxi| url=https://www.sverigetaxi.se/| email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-21 | content=Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. Includes several cities around Sweden.}} * {{listing | type=go | name=Cabonline| url=https://www.cabonline.com/resa| email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-02-07 | content=Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. Includes several cities. }} ===By thumb=== Sweden has a reputation for being a pretty difficult country to hitch in, though it's still quite possible to hitch-hike. Ordinary people are often reluctant to pick up strangers. However, given a location with sufficiently much traffic, you will often find the one or other helpful driver. Bus stops are common places to attract attention, position yourself before the actual bus stop so the vehicle can stop at the stop. This works best if the road is widened at the bus stop, allowing cars to pull off easily. Also the beginning of motorway or major road ramps is a good location, or right after a junction. Avoid any location where cars are able to drive 80 km/h and above (even if it's a bus stop), or where there is no space for cars to stop. Unless for shorter trips, you will want to avoid minor side roads. While you can find rides there, they are often just 30-50 km, and it will take ages to arrive. Motorways and major roads is the best way forward. Note, pedestrians are prohibited from accessing motorways. Truck drivers are probably likely to pick up hitch-hikers, so ask at gas stations — anywhere else they will have a hard time to stop. Look polite, friendly and trustworthy (see clothes), try to catch the drivers eyes and have a smile on your lips even if cars don't stop — in the end it is a social game. ===By bicycle=== {{see also|Cycling in Sweden}} Most Swedish cities have excellent bicycle paths, and renting a bike can be a quick and healthy method of getting around locally. Some cities have bikes for borrowing. Inter-city cycling is a good option for the experienced cyclist. While cycling is not allowed on motorways, most of them have a parallel old road without the heavy traffic. Note that most long-distance trains don't take bikes. A foldable bike or combining regional trains may be viable although cumbersome options. ===On foot=== Cars are by law required to stop at any unattended crosswalks (zebra stripes in the road without red-lights) to let pedestrians cross the road. But keep in mind that you are required to make eye contact with the driver so that they know that you are about to cross the street. ==See== {{Infobox|[[File:60's car with lots of raggare on the roof at Power Big Meet.jpg|320 px]]<br />Raggare: The Swedish greaser culture|The Swedish countryside is sparsely populated, and the inhabitants depend on their cars. Since the 1950s, Swedes have been fond of cars; preferably classic American cars, which can be substituted for European-made vehicles, but under no circumstances Asian cars. A sub-culture known as '''raggare''' (also the Swedish word for "pick-up artist") keeps the American greaser and rockabilly culture alive in the middle-Swedish countryside. Sweden is said to have more road-worthy classic American cars than any other country, the United States included. Though Swedish people are not regarded to be conservative, many industrial towns have declined since the 1960s, so there is much nostalgia for these years. As the legal driving age is 18, the younger teens in the countryside ride custom cars registered as tractors, ''epatraktor''. The '''[http://www.bigmeet.com/ Power Big Meet]''' is a series of conventions for classic and custom cars, in several Swedish towns. The biggest meeting takes place in [[Västerås]].}} As modern as its society is, Sweden is a country full of seemingly untouched nature and ever-present history. The first stop for many visitors is historic and compact '''[[Stockholm]]''', full of heritage, home to the '''Vasa Museum''' and gateway to the '''Stockholm Archipelago'''. There's the canals and cobblestoned streets of '''[[Gothenburg]]''', with its famous botanical garden, or the modern architecture of '''[[Malmö]]'''. For more history, head to the port town of '''[[Visby]]''', a recognized Unesco World Heritage Site, or the medieval town of '''[[Ystad]]''', famous through the Kurt Wallander novels that are set here and for '''Ales stenar''', one of the ancient iron-age burial monuments in the country. ===Palaces=== Sweden has more [[palaces]] and [[castles]] (''slott'') and manors (''herrgård'') than other Nordic countries. Eleven of them belong to the [[Swedish monarchy]]; most of them are open to the public. '''Stockholm Palace''' ([[Stockholm/Gamla Stan]]), '''Rosendal''' ([[Stockholm/Djurgården]]), '''Haga''', '''Gustav III:s pavilion''' and '''Ulriksdal''' ([[Solna]]), '''Drottningholm''' and '''Kina''' ([[Ekerö]]), '''Tullgarn''' ([[Södertälje]]) and '''Rosersberg''' ([[Sigtuna]]) are within greater Stockholm. '''Gripsholm''' ([[Mariefred]]) and '''Strömsholm''' ([[Hallstahammar]]) are further away. The farmland areas are full of noble and bourgeois manors from the 17th century and onwards; many of them are used as hotels today. ===Industrial heritage=== While the [[Bergslagen]] district, [[Roslagen]] and other parts of Sweden became world-leading in mining and metalworking during the 17th century, the full industrialization of Sweden lagged behind the rest of Europe until the 20th century, when Swedish product brands such as '''Volvo''', '''Ericsson''', '''SAAB''', '''SKF''', '''AGA''', '''IKEA''', '''Tetra Pak''' and '''Atlas Copco''' conquered the world. During the last decades, most of the Swedish workforce has moved on to high technology and the service sector, converting many of the mines, factories and waterways to museums. Among [[industrial tourism|industrial heritage sites]] are [[Göta Kanal]] from the Baltic Sea to the Atlantic, the copper mine in [[Falun]], and the Nobel Museum in Stockholm. ===Folk culture=== {{seealso|Nordic folk culture}} Swedish folk culture includes folk music and dance (see [[Nordic music]]), folk costumes, folk art, handicraft (''slöjd'', ''hemslöjd'') and traditional farming. Local identity used to be based on the ''socken'' (parish) and the ''province'' (landskap). With the 19th century industrialization and urbanization, folk culture had to be preserved, and today survives through different institutions. Most provinces have an [[Living history museums|open-air museum]] with buildings, workshops and sometimes livestock and wild animals on display; the oldest one being Skansen in Stockholm. '''Hembygdsförening''' is an organization for local folk culture, usually based on an old farm, ''hembygdsgård''. Among traditional farming methods, the ''fäbod'', a seasonally used livestock shed, can be found in particular in Dalarna, Värmland and Norrland. '''Folkets hus och parker''' is a cooperative for local community centres; ''bygdegård'' is a rural community centre. ==Do== [[File:Annandagsmatch 2012.jpeg|thumb|Besides [[association football]] and [[Ice hockey in Europe|ice hockey]], bandy is a major spectator sport in Sweden, with the 26th of December as a traditional game day. The stands are usually outdoors, so the audience needs to dress warm.]] ===Nature=== Sweden's landscape includes dense forests to crystal clear lakes, waterfalls and rolling mountains, with opportunities to see [[Eurasian wildlife]]. In total, Sweden has 29 [http://www.nationalparksofsweden.se/ '''national parks''']. The stunning but rugged wilderness of '''[http://www.nationalparksofsweden.se/choose-park---list/sarek-national-park/ Sarek National Park]''', called "Europe's last wilderness" by some, is a challenging but highly rewarding area to explore. It was the first of a list of 29 established national parks and is part of the vast and Unesco protected terrains of '''[[Laponia]]''', together with the national parks '''[http://www.nationalparksofsweden.se/choose-park---list/padjelanta--badjelannda-national-park/ Padjelanta]''', '''[http://www.nationalparksofsweden.se/choose-park---list/stora-sjofallet--stuor-muorkke-national-park/ Stora Sjöfallet]''' (with its snowy peaks) and the taiga and ravines of '''[http://www.nationalparksofsweden.se/choose-park---list/muddus--muttos-national-park/ Muddus National Park]'''. Set out to spot elk/moose, wolverines and more Swedish '''wildlife''' or visit in winter for a chance to see the magical '''Northern Lights'''. '''[http://www.nationalparksofsweden.se/choose-park---list/kosterhavet-national-park/ Kosterhavet]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' maritime park is the place to go for lobster or seal safaris. During the summer [[Kungsleden]] in northern Sweden attracts lots of visitors who enjoy a solitary hike between cabins or camp sites in the beautiful mountains. The Swedish [[Right to access]] gives anyone the right to walk over other's land, as long as you do not destroy nor disturb it. This means that you can go sailing or canoeing and put up a camp on islands in the [[Stockholm Archipelago]], you can go [[Hiking in the Nordic countries|hiking]] and put up a camp almost wherever you want, however it is illegal to make a campfire on a rock surface. Sceneries of nature, less populated than most of Europe. Ice and snow during winter. The west coast has plenty of small towns like [[Marstrand]], [[Skärhamn]], [[Mollösund]] and [[Lysekil]] that are worth exploring with their distinct architecture and cuisine, best experienced during summer. Some [[outdoor life]] opportunities are [[winter sport]], [[Hiking in the Nordic countries|hiking]], [[Sea kayaking|canoeing]], [[Cruising on small craft|sailing]], [[horse riding]] and [[foraging|berry- or mushroom-picking]] depending on season. The ultimate test of aerobic fitness is the [[Swedish Classic Circuit]]; four annual races of [[cross-country skiing]] (Vasaloppet, from [[Sälen]] to [[Mora (Sweden)|Mora]]), [[running]] ([[Lidingö]]loppet), [[cycling]] (Vätternrundan starting from [[Motala]]) and [[swimming]] ([[Vansbro]]simningen). [[Boating in Sweden]] can be done on a sailing boat, a motor boat, or a canoe. [[Diving in Sweden]] is challenging because of the cold waters. Still, the Baltic Sea is full of well-preserved shipwrecks. If you want to document your experiences in Sweden with an unmanned aerial vehicle (a '''drone'''), there are some regulations you need to adhere to. The open category of flying drones does not require certification or a permit. The basic restrictions for the open category is: You are not allowed to fly out of sight, no higher than 120 meters, nor in a way that poses a risk to other aircraft, people, animals, the environment or property. Drones are also not allowed to weigh more than 25 kg. For more information see the [https://www.transportstyrelsen.se/dronare Transportstyrelsen website]. Sweden is rich on mineral deposits and ancient cultural artifacts. If you intend to bring a '''metal detector''' you need a permit from the county board (''Länsstyrelsen'') of the county you want to visit. You also need a permit from the landowner since the [[Right to access in the Nordic countries|freedom to roam]] does not include the use of metal detectors. For more information see the [https://www.raa.se/om-riksantikvarieambetet/fragor-och-svar/metallsokare/ Swedish National Heritage Board's website]. ===City life=== Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö have great [[nightlife]] and [[shopping]] opportunities, while far from the cheapest places in Europe. [[Gambling]] in Sweden is offered by the state (Svenska Spel), and a few privileged organizations. '''[[Horse racing]]''' is a pastime in many Swedish cities. The most widespread class is harness racing, ''trav'', with race tracks in many towns. Bookmaking is operated through [https://www.atg.se/ ATG] with on-line agents at the tracks, and in most towns. Several bars and restaurants have gambling tables and slot machines. ===Music=== {{seealso|Nordic music}} Swedish popular music is world-famous, with names such as ''ABBA'', ''Roxette'', ''Swedish House Mafia'' and others. Sweden hosts dozens of music festivals with international acts, as well as stars-to-be, most of them during summer. '''Sweden Rock Festival''' ([[Sölvesborg]]) and '''Way Out West''' ([[Gothenburg]]) to mention only two. There are also several [http://www.musikfestivaler.se/en festivals] {{dead link|December 2020}} for folk, classical and jazz music. Live concerts, music galas, DJs and music shows organized during Christmas events. '''Choir''' (''kör'') music is big in Sweden, with regular [https://www.sverigeskorforbund.se/kalender performances] even in smaller towns, not least the weeks before Christmas. '''Dansband''' (a type of dance orchestras) music is popular, and is performed live at [[social dancing]] venues such as dance pavilions (often in what is called a "folkpark"), community centres and some dance restaurants. While disco may be popular in cities, these venues provide a more traditional way to get together. Most dancing nights the music played suites the smooth Swedish swing dance ''bugg'', which together with foxtrot and one-step is the dance most commonly danced there. Some nights there is ''gammeldans'', when older ballroom dances are played and danced, such as waltz, schottische, polka, mazurka, perhaps snoa, and sometimes also foxtrot and tango. Some of the dansband have also these genres in their repertoire (sometimes with a modern touch), others don't. The culture at dance pavilions is generally a bit less formal than in Finland: there may be no well-established rules on asking people to dance or on how many dances to dance at a time with the same partner. ==Buy== ===Money=== {{exchange rates | currency=Swedish kronor | currencyCodeAfter=&nbsp;kr | date=January 2024 | USD=10 | EUR=11 | GBP=13 | NOK=1 | DKK=1.5 | CHF=12.2 | source=[https://www.xe.com/currency/sek-swedish-krona XE.com] }} The national currency is the Swedish '''krona''' (plural,: ''kronor''), denoted by the abbreviation "'''kr'''" (ISO code: '''SEK'''). Swedes may call the currency "crowns" when speaking English. Don't confuse it with the Norwegian krone, Danish krone, Icelandic króna, nor the Czech koruna. One krona equals 100 ''öre'', but 1 krona is today the smallest coin. Ören remain in use only in electronic transactions; when payment is done in cash, prices are rounded to the nearest full krona. Coins of Sweden are produced in denominations of 1, 2, 5 and 10 kronor. Banknotes of Sweden are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 kronor. Sweden is notorious for invalidating old money, so don't save any for future visits. Banknotes and coins older than 2017 are no longer valid, except for the latest type of the 10 kronor coin (year 1991 to 2009). Invalid banknotes can be redeemed only via the [https://www.riksbank.se/en-gb/payments--cash/notes--coins/notes/redeeming-invalid-banknotes/ Swedish National Bank]. You might be able to exchange old Swedish currency for a foreign one that you will need (such as euro) – the exchange bureau will then do the visit to the national bank. Counterfeit Swedish money is very rare, and you are very unlikely to receive already obsolete money. Don't expect stores to accept foreign currency, apart from close to the borders, where usually only the neighbour currency is accepted (i.e. Danish krone, Norwegian krone or euro). Larger stores in Stockholm and at larger airports and railway stations often accept payment in Euro, typically at unfavourable rates. '''Money exchange''' is best done at companies that have specialized in this, since many commercial banks are cashless on foreign currency. '''[https://www.forex.se/en/About-FOREX-Bank/Branches/ Forex]{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' has branches all over most of Sweden, but they may be expensive. '''[https://www.x-change.se/en/Offices/ X-change]''' has branches in Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö. '''[https://tavex.se/en/kontakta/ Tavex]''' has branches in and around Stockholm. That said, Sweden is one of the world's most '''cashless countries''' and a '''card-centric country'''. There are a lot of automated vending machines that only accept payment cards and businesses that don't accept cash, or where paying with cash is complicated, are common. Electronic payments with '''credit cards''' and '''debit cards''' (''kontokort'', ''bankkort'') are very common, as is the Swedish payment app Swish. It is entirely possible to live one's life in Sweden without ever using cash or seeing cash except in a museum – and as a foreigner you will need cash mostly where Swedes would use Swish. Actually, getting rid of your cash may require some effort. Tickets for transport, events and attractions can often be bought online (on the web or by dedicated app), using a payment card, avoiding the need to buy them on-site, and without having to print the tickets on paper – just make sure that your phone doesn't go flat, and that you can show the ticket even if the local network is oversaturated (perhaps through a screenshot). ====Card==== Most stores, restaurants and bars accept all major credit cards. You might need an ID card or a passport when shopping with a credit card, though not in supermarkets and such where the PIN code is king. PIN-pads are widely used instead of signatures (even for credit cards), so make sure to get a PIN for your card and to memorise it. If you don't have a credit card, you can buy a '''[https://en.paygoo.se/Cards Paygoo]''' Mastercard gift card (from {{SEK|200}}+{{SEK|35}} activation fee) at any Pressbyrån or 7-Eleven outlet, found at major airports, train stations, and coach stations; it will be accepted in the same way as any other MasterCard in most places. Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are accepted for payments with credit cards and debit cards where you see a contactless icon on the reader. The domestic payment smartphone app '''[https://www.swish.nu Swish]''' is commonly used, but it requires a Swedish bank account. If you travel through the countryside, some small vendors like cafés, gift shops, farm shops (''gårdsbutik''), and antiques shops offer only ''Swish'' or cash as payment options. To be prepared, you might want to withdraw a smaller amount of cash at an ATM. ====ATMs==== The most used Swedish word for automated teller machine is ''Bankomat'', although this is a trademark of the Trade Bank Consortium, much like the term ''cash point'' in the United Kingdom, and therefore not used by several banks. A more generic word would be ''Uttagsautomat''; ''Uttag'', ''Minuten'' and ''Kontanten'' are other trademarks that have become part of normal speech. Nearly all machines regardless of operator will accept the MasterCard, Maestro, Visa, Visa Electron and American Express. You can withdraw up to {{SEK|10,000}} per use. During a seven-day period you can withdraw a maximum of {{SEK|20,000}}. You have three attempts to enter the correct PIN code. If you fail a third time, the machine retains the card and closing it. In order to facilitate the visually impaired have the keys on the machines equipped with Braille. You may have spoken guidance, press the TALK button. In some ATMs you can withdraw euros if you have a card issued by a Swedish bank. You may take up the maximum per use. You can make multiple withdrawals after the other but a maximum {{SEK|20,000}} per week applies. ===Tipping=== [[Tipping]], known as ''dricks'' in Swedish, is not customary in Sweden, but sometimes a tip is left as a sign of appreciation for good service, usually by rounding up the bill but truly exceptional service may be rewarded with a tip of 5–10%. Tipping is strictly voluntary and should be given only as a token of real appreciation for the service. Be aware that the tips will most often be split between the waiters and the kitchen. Taxi drivers do not expect tips, any extra service (such as carrying bags) will be listed on the receipt according to rate. The only area where tipping might be expected are walking tours advertised as "free", which are common in cities that are quite walkable. Bar entertainers such as musicians and comedians might request a voluntary tip instead of a cover charge. ===Costs=== Sweden is a rather '''expensive''' country to live in, though still somewhat cheaper than [[Norway]] and [[Denmark]]; many Norwegians living near the border drive into Sweden to purchase groceries. Sundries like a 33&nbsp;cl bottle of Coca-Cola cost about {{SEK|10}}, a beer in a bar will cost you around {{SEK|45}}, the average price of hotel accommodation is around {{SEK|1,300}}, a room in a hostel varies between {{SEK|150}} and {{SEK|350}}, a public transport ticket in Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö will set you back around {{SEK|25}}, one meal will cost you around {{SEK|100}}, 1 litre of petrol fuel costs about {{SEK|18}}, and a pack of 19 cigarettes will cost you {{SEK|50}}. If you are a bit careful about your expenses, a daily budget of around {{SEK|1,000}} will be enough (2015 prices). House prices outside metropolitan areas are probably among the lowest in Western Europe, and discount stores such as ''Lidl'', ''Netto'' and ''Willys'' offer a wide range of items at a low cost. Accommodation and dining out are cheaper in Stockholm than in most other West European capitals. ===Taxes=== {{quote|Paying tax is awesome.|author=Coined by Social Democratic politician Mona Sahlin. Repeated years later, by her opponent Finance Minister Anders Borg of the Moderate Party, as a comment about Sweden's persistently high taxes, regardless of government.}} Sweden has three levels of value-added tax (''moms'' or ''mervärdesskatt''). Price tags always include tax, except in a business-to-business context (wholesale stores, etc.), so the consumer need not worry about it. Having said, knowing the amount of VAT paid could be useful is when claiming VAT refunds on eligible purchases (something done upon your exit from the European Union). Financial transactions, gambling, healthcare, dentistry and prescription medication are exempt from VAT. The 6 per cent level applies to passenger transport, books, newspapers, sport events, performances, zoos and museums. The 12 per cent level applies to travel accommodation and food (including restaurant meals and soft drinks, but not alcoholic beverages). Everything else has 25 percent VAT; that includes clothing, alcohol, tobacco, non-prescription medication, cosmetics, hair and beauty services, appliances, souvenirs, amusement parks, nightclubs, office supplies, electronic services, vehicles (including rental), and fuel. ===Shopping=== [[File:Dalahästar.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Dala Horses]] [[Bargaining]] is not a common habit in Sweden, in some areas it is even frowned upon. It might work in some instances, especially for more expensive products, flea markets, street vendors, and antique shops after some small talk of interest. The act of haggling is called ''pruta'' in Swedish. A more enticing way of haggling to Swedes is to ask for a discount (''rabatt''), and then haggle for the size of the discount. Most shops, at least major chains in central areas, are open all week, even on Sundays, although they do close on Christmas Day, Midsummer's Eve afternoon and all of Midsummer's Day. Closing times are rigid, most often on the minute. At grocery stores and supermarkets it is considered good practice to place each product on the conveyor belt so that the barcode faces either towards you or upwards so they can be scanned more quickly by the cashier. Do not stack items on top of each other; place them one by one on a line, and remember to place the divider on the conveyor belt when you are done. Stores charge for plastic and paper bags (usually {{SEK|1-3}} for plastic and double for paper), and you have to bag your goods yourself. * An unofficial national symbol, the '''Dala Horse''' (Swedish: ''dalahäst'') is the souvenir of souvenirs to bring from Sweden. Named after their origin, the province of [[Dalarna]], these small wooden horses have been around since the 17th century. They are normally painted orange or blue with symmetrical decorations. They are fairly expensive: expect to pay around {{SEK|100}} for a very small one or several hundred kronor for bigger versions. The horses can be bought in souvenir shops all over Sweden. If you want to know more about how the horses are made, visit Dalarna and the municipality of [[Mora (Sweden)|Mora]] where the horses are carved and painted in workshops open for tourists. And if driving towards Mora from [[Stockholm]], keep your eyes open when you pass the town of [[Avesta]] where the world's largest (13 meters high) Dala Horse overlooks the highway. * Swedish '''glass''' is world famous for its beauty. Several skilled glass artists have contributed to this reputation through innovative, complex (and expensive) art creations, but mass-produced Swedish table glass has also been an international success. Part of the province of [[Småland]], between the towns of [[Växjö]] and [[Kalmar]], is known as the '''[http://www.glasriket.se/ Kingdom of Crystal]'''. 15 glassworks are packed into this small area, the most famous being ''Orrefors'', ''Kosta'' and ''Boda''. Tourists are welcome to watch the glass blowers turn the glowing melt into glittering glass, and you can even give it a try yourself. * High-end imported wines from [[#Systembolaget|Systembolaget]]. * Swedish design, spanning from furniture to jewelry, is known for function, efficiency and minimalism. [http://www.designtorget.se/designtorget/se/ Designtorget]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot}} is a chain of stores with a wide range of everyday products; [http://www.lagerhaus.se Lagerhaus] is another. Svenskt Tenn is another store with beautiful items by designers such as Josef Frank. * There are some items for the home that are invented by Swedes that might be fun to bring home such as safety matches, adjustable spanners or adjustable wrenches, paraffin cooking stove (Primuskök) or a good old Celsius thermometer. * With a long tradition of woodwork, and the absence of wars in modern times, Sweden has plenty of [[art and antiques shopping|antique furniture]]. Furniture made industrially in the early 20th century mimicking older styles (''stilmöbler'') can be found cheap. * '''Flea markets''' are literally translated as ''loppmarknad'' or ''loppis'', and one of few places where haggling is accepted. ==Eat== {{Infobox|Smörgåsbord, the traditional Swedish buffet|A smörgåsbord, literally ''buttered bread table'' is a Swedish buffet. Traditionally, it consists of seven servings. The first is herring, ''sill'', the poor man's staple food. It is followed up by seafood, cold cuts, warm meat, sausages/meatballs, cheese, and dessert. The Christmas version of ''smörgåsbord'' is known as ''julbord''.}} : ''See [[Nordic cuisine]] for an in-depth description of Swedish food.'' Swedish food is typical of [[Nordic cuisine]], based on meat (notably pork and game), fish, dairy products, potatoes and bread, together with berries and wild mushrooms. Fresh fruit and vegetables are rather recent additions to the menu. [[File:Köttbullarmos.JPG|thumbnail|Meatballs with mashed potatoes and a glass of milk]] Traditional everyday dishes are called ''husmanskost'' (pronounced whos-mans-cost). Some of them are: *Pickled '''herring''' (''sill'') is eaten with bread or potatoes for summer lunch or as a starter on the ''smörgåsbord'', at traditional holidays. *Many forms of '''salmon''' (''lax''), especially cured salmon (''gravlax''). *'''Meatballs''' (''köttbullar''), the internationally most famous Swedish dish. Served with potatoes, '''brown sauce''' and '''lingonberry jam'''. *'''Hash''' (''pytt i panna'') consisting of meat, onions and potatoes, all diced and fried. Sliced beetroots and a fried or boiled whole egg are mandatory accessories. *'''Pea soup''' (''ärtsoppa'') with diced pork, followed by '''thin pancakes''', is traditionally eaten on Thursdays. *'''Blodpudding''', a black sausage made by pig's blood and flour, eaten with lingonberry jam. [[File:01 Falukorv.jpg|thumbnail|Falukorv in a supermarket fridge]] *'''Falukorv''', a big baloney from [[Falun]]. *Sweden has many varieties of '''[[bread]]''' (''bröd''). Many of them are whole-grain or mixed grain, containing wheat, barley, oats, compact and rich in fiber. Some notable examples are ''tunnbröd'' (thin wrap bread), ''knäckebröd'' (hard bread - might has a bland taste, but is nearly always available), and different kinds of seasoned loaves. Bread is mostly eaten as simple sandwiches, with thin slices of cheese or cold cuts. Some spreads typical to Sweden are '''messmör''' (whey butter) and '''leverpastej''' (liver pâté). * '''Reindeer''', ''ren'', traditionally herded by the [[Sami culture|Sami people]]. ''Renskav'' is sliced, sautéed reindeer meat, preferably eaten with wild mushrooms, lingonberries and potatoes. *'''Tunnbrödrulle''', a fast food dish, consisting of a bread wrap with mashed potatoes, a hot dog and some vegetables. *'''Kroppkakor''' Potato dumpling stuffed with diced pork, reminiscent of the German Klöße. Originally from [[Småland]], there is also a variant from [[Piteå]] up north, known as pitepalt. *'''Hard cheese''' (''ost''): In an ordinary food market you can often find 10 to 20 different types of cheese. The most famous Swedish hard cheese would be Västerbotten, named after a region in Sweden. * '''Milk''' (''mjölk'') is commonly drunk during meals. '''Filmjölk''' is a Nordic yoghurt, eaten with breakfast cereal. * '''Rose hip soup''' (''nyponsoppa'') and '''bilberry soup''' (''blåbärssoppa''), for recovery of heat and energy during [[winter sports]]. Other Swedish favorites: [[File:Messmor.jpg|thumbnail|Messmör - available in tubes or boxes]] * '''Raggmunk''', wheat flour, milk, egg, and shredded potatoes fried like thin pancakes served with fried pork (bacon) and lingonberries. *'''Soft whey butter''' (''messmör''), breadspread with a sweetish, hard-to-describe taste. *'''Caviar''', not the expensive Russian or Iranian kind but a cheaper version made from cod roe, sold in tubes and used on sandwiches. The most famous brand is ''Kalles Kaviar''. *'''Julmust''', stout-like Christmas soft drink. Available during Easter as well, by then known as Påskmust. *'''Crayfish''' (''kräftor''), hugely popular around August, when Swedes feast on them at big crayfish parties (''kräftskivor''). Silly paper hats and lots of alcohol included. *'''Surströmming'''; the world's stinkiest dish. See [[Nordic cuisine#Ingredients]] for details for how to eat it without disgusting oneself or the surroundings. *'''Semla''', a cream-filled pastry traditionally eaten on Tuesdays in February and March, starting on Fat Tuesday. * '''Rabarberkräm/Rabarberpaj''' rhubarb cream or rhubarb pie with vanilla sauce (other cakes or pies on fresh blueberries, apples, or just strawberries with cream or ice cream are also very popular in the summer) *'''Spettekaka''' A local cake from [[Scania]] in south Sweden, made of eggs, sugar, and potato starch. * '''Smörgåstårta''' A cold Sandwich layer cake, often with salmon, eggs, and shrimps. (Also often with tuna or roast beef) Swedish people often eat it at New Year's Eve, or birthdays and parties. * ''Lösgodis'' candy from boxes that you mix on your own, sold by weight, is one of the most popular candy among this candy-loving nation. A choice of chocolate, sours, sweet and salty liquorice are always offered. * Swedish cookies and pastries like ''bondkakor'', ''hallongrottor'', ''bullar'' or cakes like ''prinsesstårta'' are widely popular. It used to be tradition to offer guest 7 different cookies when invited over for coffee. If you have a sweet tooth you should try ''chokladbollar'', ''mazariner'', ''biskvier'', ''rulltårta'' or ''lussebullar''. As Sweden is stretched out between [[central Europe]] and the [[Arctic]], there are many regional specialties. Among the more exotic are * ''[[Norrland#Eat|Surströmming]]'', a stinky canned fish popular along the [[Norrland]] coast. * ''[[Scania#Eat|Spettekaka]]'', a meringue-like cake from [[Scania]]. A specialty of the Raggare sub-culture (Swedish greaser culture) is hot dog with shrimp salad as topping. Some fast food vendors, especially in the countryside, has this dish on their menu. [[File:Stockholm IKEA cafe 01.jpg|thumb|The world-famous furniture retailer '''IKEA''' has stores at the outskirts of 15 Swedish cities. Their diners serve basic Swedish meals for as little as {{SEK|49}}, and the store exit usually has a café selling hot dogs for as little as 5&nbsp;kr. (They hope that you spend some money on shopping too.) Expect crowds at rainy weather.]] As in most of Europe, inexpensive '''pizza''' and '''kebab''' restaurants are ubiquitous in Swedish cities, and are also to be found in almost every small village. '''Sushi''' and '''Thai''' food are also quite popular. The local hamburger chain '''[http://www.max.se Max]''' is recommended before '''[http://www.mcdonalds.se McDonald's]''' and '''[http://www.burgerking.com Burger King]''', for tasteful Scandinavian furnishing, clean restrooms, no trans fats and free coffee with meals. In parts of Norrland it is customary to eat hamburgers with a knife and fork - available at Max. Another Swedish chain '''[http://frasses.se/#!/restauranger Frasses]''' offers apart from all kinds of meaty burgers a tasty vegetarian alternative - a quornburger. Another type of fast food establishment is the ''gatukök'' ("street kitchen"), serving hamburgers, hot dogs, kebab and tunnbrödrulle (se above). Highway diners, ''vägkrogar'', have generous meals, but might be of poor quality, greasy and overpriced. If you have time, a downtown restaurant is preferable. Gas stations sell decent packed salads and sandwiches. You can get a relatively inexpensive lunch if you look for the signs with "'''Dagens rätt'''" or just "'''Dagens'''" (''Today's special'' or literally ''meal of the day''). This normally costs between {{SEK|80}} and {{SEK|150}}, and almost everywhere includes a bottle of water; soft drink; or light beer, bread & butter, salad bar and coffee afterwards. Dagens rätt is served Monday to Friday. If you're on a tight budget, self-catering is the safest way to save your money. There are a few nationwide supermarket chains such as '''[https://www.coop.se/butiker-erbjudanden/ Coop]''', '''[https://www.ica.se/butiker/alla-butiker/ ICA]''', '''[https://www.willys.se/butik-sok Willy:s]''', '''[https://www.citygross.se/butiker City Gross]''' and '''[https://www.lidl.se/info/butiker Lidl]'''. As a rule of thumb, the Coop stores are usually most expensive with ICA as a runner up. Willy:s and Lidl are considered discount. City Gross used to be discount but is now catering more for local produce in meat and vegetables. [[Vegetarian food|Vegetarian and vegan]] lifestyles are accepted in cities, less common in the countryside, where fishing and hunting are a national pastime. You should be able to find a falafel in any medium-sized town; or you may negotiate a price to only access the salad bar, as all well assorted eateries have one. ==Drink== ===Coffee=== Swedish consumption of [[coffee]] (''kaffe'') is among the highest in the world. Drinking coffee at home or in a café, an act called ''fika'', is a common Swedish social ritual, used for planning activities, dating, exchanging gossip or simply spending time and money. Swedish coffee is filtered and usually stronger than American coffee - but still not the espresso of France or Italy. Italian varieties (espresso, cappuccino, caffe latte) are available at larger city cafés. Sweden has several domestic café franchises (Espresso House, Wayne's Coffee, Coffeehouse by George) with an international atmosphere, and a broad selection of coffees, sandwiches, and cakes. One cup is around {{SEK|35}}, often including a refill, ''påtår''. Many retailers sell coffee at their cafés for {{SEK|10}} a cup. The traditional Swedish café is called ''konditori'', and every city and town has at least one. They offer warm beverages as coffee, tea and cocoa, and an assortment of cookies, pastry and perhaps also ''smörgås'', the Swedish open sandwich, and ''fralla'', the Swedish closed sandwich. The sandwiches offered can vary a lot depending on where you are in Sweden. ===Alcoholic beverages=== [[File:Kräftor kräva dessa drycker.jpg|thumb|''"Crayfish demand these beverages! You have to forego crayfish unless you vote '''no''' on August 27."'' Hard liquor have long been an integral part of the Swedish cuisine, under different regulations. In 1922, the first Swedish referendum narrowly rejected a total prohibition. Today, the sale of alcohol remains regulated and heavily taxed.]] The most famous Swedish [[alcoholic beverage]] is '''Absolut Vodka''', one of the world's most famous vodkas. There are several brands of distilled, and usually seasoned, liquor, called ''brännvin''. ''Brännvin'' does not have as high requirements on distilling as for Vodka and it is distilled from potatoes or grain. Liquor seasoned with dill and caraway is called ''akvavit''. When brännvin is served in a shot glass with a meal it is called ''snaps'' (not to confuse with the German "Schnapps"). It is part of custom to drink snaps at occasions such as midsummers eve, Crayfish party, Christmas, student parties, etc. Often it is done together with a ''snapsvisa'' to every drink (a typical snapsvisa is a short, vigorous song; its lyrics usually tell of the delicacy and glory of the drink, or of the singer’s craving for snaps, or about anything in a cheeky way). ''Punsch'' (not to be confused with punch) is a traditional sweet liqueur made from a combination of water, lemon, sugar, spirits and arrack, unique for Sweden and Finland. It can be served both warm and cold, usually has 25% alcohol by volume (ABV) and 30% sugar, and is by tradition often served at Thursdays together with pea & pork soup and pancakes. It grew very popular during the 18th and 19th centuries, generating a strong punsch-culture with numerous special punsch drinking songs, and maintains a strong precence in Swedish student culture. If visiting Sweden in December or January a typical hot drink is ''glögg'' (similar to mulled wine or Glühwein). It is often served together with ginger bread and ''lussebullar'' or at the ''julbord'' (Christmas buffet). The main classic ingredients are red wine, sugar, spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and bitter orange, and optionally also stronger spirits such as vodka, akvavit, or brandy. There is also non-alcohol ''glögg''. Sweden does produce some outstanding [[beer]]s, and there has been a rise in the numbers of microbreweries. Some of them are ''Slottskällans'', ''Nils Oscar'', ''Närke kulturbryggeri'', ''Jämtlands ångbryggeri'' and ''Dugges Ale- & Porterbryggeri''. You may have some trouble finding them, unless you go to a bar with a wide range of beers, or a well-stocked ''Systembolaget'', but you will find a few of them in every major city. Despite this the most common beer is the rather plain "international lager". The beer you get in supermarkets is called ''folköl'' and has 2.8 or 3.5% alcohol. You are able to find a variety of different brands of beers in food stores, Swedish, English and even Czech beer. Sweden has a seasonal beer for Christmas, ''julöl''. It is sweeter than normal beer and usually seasoned with Christmas spices, mostly it is ale. All Swedish breweries make at least one type of julöl. [[Wine]] is popular, but the Swedish production is very modest. Drinking alcohol in parks and public spaces outdoors is generally allowed, with some obvious exceptions (playgrounds, schoolyards, etc. and places were a prohibition is posted). Drinking your own is also prohibited in shopping centres and the like and on public transport and in associated areas; there may be licensed restaurants or bars. Establishments with permission to serve alcohol (those allowed to sell strong drinks usually advertise it as ''fullständiga rättigheter'', "full rights") are usually not permitted to sell alcohol to be consumed outside the establishment. Beer and lager up to 3.5% ABV is readily available in supermarkets at 10–15&nbsp;kr a piece, but strong alcoholic beverages are, as in [[Norway]], [[Finland]] and [[Iceland]] available over the counter only from the state-owned retailer, '''[http://www.systembolaget.se Systembolaget]''' (also sometimes referred to as ''Systemet'' or ''Bolaget''). Its stores are usually open M–W 10:00–18:00, Th F 10:00–19:00, and Sa 10:00–15:00, with long queues on Fridays and Saturdays, closing at the minute no matter how long the queue outside the store is, something the Swedes themselves joke about. They are always closed on Sundays. Most shops are of supermarket style. The assortment is very good, and the staff usually has great knowledge. Systembolaget does not serve customers already intoxicated or under the age of 20, and will most likely ask for identification from customers looking younger than 25. This also applies to any companions, regardless of who is making the actual purchase. Beverages are heavily taxed by content of alcohol, some liquor is very expensive (vodka is around 300&nbsp;kr a litre at Systembolaget), but the monopoly has brought some perks – Systembolaget is one of the world's largest bulk-buyers of wine, and as such gets some fantastic deals which it passes on to consumers. Mid-to-high-quality wines often cost less in Sweden than in the country of origin; sometimes even less than if you were to buy the wine directly from the vineyard. This does '''not''' apply to low-quality wines or hard liquor, due to the volume-based tax on alcohol. All brands are treated equally and there is no large-pack discount. Therefore, microbrews cost largely the same as major brands, and might be a more interesting choice. Beverages are not refrigerated. Since 2025, alcohol manufacturers can sell beverages on site to customers who participate in an educational activity. '''Moonshine''' (''hembränt'') is popular in the countryside, though illegal. Though some shipments can be as good as legal vodka, most are disgusting and some may be hazardous, so you should stick to the real thing. ===Bars and nightclubs=== The minimum age requirement is 18 to get into bars and to buy regular (3.5%&nbsp;ABV or less) beer in shops (to prevent teenage drunkenness, some shops have decided to enforce a minimum age of 20 for 3.5% beer as well), and 20 in Systembolaget. Many bars have an age limit of 20, but some (especially on weekends in those in the centre) have age limits as high as 23 or 25, but this rule is arbitrarily enforced. Bring passport or ID. Some high-end nightclubs mandate dress code, ''vårdad klädsel'' is casual dress; this is also arbitrarily enforced. For male guests, proper shoes (not trainers or sandals), long-legged trousers (not blue jeans) and a dress shirt is almost always good enough. Age and dress requirements are not rigid, and doormen have the right to reject any patron for any reason except gender, sexual orientation, creed, disability or race, which is illegal discrimination. Still, some nightclubs are infamous for rejecting "immigrants", especially men of African or Middle Eastern origin, on pretexts such as "members only", "too drunk", or "dress code". Getting into a club is easier for patrons who dress and behave well, and arrive fairly early. Sweden has enforced '''non-smoking''' in all bars, pubs and restaurants, save outdoor areas such as terraces, and designated smoking rooms (where drinks are not allowed). The prices at clubs and bars are among the more expensive in Europe: a (0.4&nbsp;L) glass of draft lager, ''stor stark'', usually costs 45–65&nbsp;kr (although some dive bars advertise it for as little as 29&nbsp;kr early evenings). A cocktail costs around 80–180&nbsp;kr. For that reason many Swedes have a small pre-party ("förfest") before they hit the town and go to nightclubs. Large clubs can require a cover charge, usually about 100&nbsp;kr, more at special performances. They usually offer a rubber stamp on your hand so you can re-enter as you like without having to pay again. Be aware that you often have to stand in line to get into a bar or a club. Many places deliberately make their customers wait in line for a while, since a long queue indicates a popular club. At the very fanciest places in the major cities, the queue is often replaced by a disorganized crowd, and the doorman simply points to indicate who gets in and who does not (to be sure to get in either be famous, very good-looking, a friend of the doorman – or a regular). Most bars that close at 01:00 or earlier will have a free entry policy. Most bars and clubs that remain open until 03:00 will charge an entrance fee. There are some clubs in the largest cities that remain open until 05:00. Their entrance fee will usually be around 200&nbsp;kr and their entry policy will generally weigh less favourably for the non-rich, non-well-moisturised, non-Swedes, non-friends and non-regulars. The club's wardrobe (or coat-checking) fee is often mandatory, usually around 20&nbsp;kr. ==Sleep== [[Car camping]] is convenient and cost-efficient, as you can stay overnight nearly anywhere. ===Camping=== The [[right to access]] (''Allemansrätten'') allows anyone to camp in uncultivated areas (including private property away from houses) without asking. There are certain limitations; for instance you are only allowed to stay at a certain spot for one night, before you have to move on. If you are travelling to Sweden in the summer, check out the local conditions when it comes to camp fires. Forests in Sweden can get very dry and temporary bans on lighting fires are not unusual. Check with [https://www.smhi.se/en SMHI], the meteorological agency, for up-to-date weather forecasts, including fire risks and other weather-related warnings, such as storms, floods and blizzards. If you prefer camping a bit more organized, most towns have campsites with showers and electricity. Expect to pay around 100–150 kr for a tentsite, but for two or three busiest weeks prices can go as high as 400 kr. [https://camping.se/en Camping.se] is the booking site of the national campsite organisation SCR. The leading campsite chain is called First Camp – comfortable, but can be expensive (they use dynamic price calculation), so check for local-led alternatives which can be cheaper (i.e. plain price). Campsites seem to be mainly for people with campers, who tend to prepare food at their campers. Therefore, places in service buildings, where one coming from a poorer country would expect a kitchen, have just sinks to wash dishes and a burner to cook food (but no kitchen utensils nor table). ===Hostels=== [[File:Af Chapman 2009b.jpg|thumb|One of the more famous hostels is ''af Chapman'', a clipper ship anchored in central [[Stockholm]].]] '''[https://www.svenskaturistforeningen.se/ Svenska Turistföreningen]''', '''STF''', is by far the most important operator of [[hostels]], ''vandrarhem'', in Sweden, with a network of more than 300 hostels around the country. Membership for foreigners is 175&nbsp;kr, and if you plan to stay four nights or more at hostels in Sweden you should join, since non-members pay an additional 45&nbsp;kr per night. STF is affiliated with Hostelling International or HI, and if you are a member of any HI organisation you are considered a member of STF. STF offers beds for the night in dorms or single and double rooms. The concept is standardized throughout Sweden, and only includes the price of the bed or room, with access to common kitchen facilities, common bath rooms and showers. Some hostels have double rooms with bath room and shower en suite. '''[http://www.svif.se/en/ Sveriges vandrarhem i förening]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot}}''', '''SVIF''' is another nation-wide hostel confederation. The price per night per person in a hostel is 80-280&nbsp;kr depending on where the hostel is located and how classy or tacky it is. Sheets are required (just a sleeping bag is not enough) and if you don't bring any you have to purchase at the hostel for around 50&nbsp;kr. You are expected to clean out your room when leaving. Cooking equipment is normally available at all hostels for those who want to self-cater. Some hostels are more spectacular than others; for instance Jumbostay at Arlanda Airport, located inside [http://www.jumbostay.com/ a decommissioned Boeing 747]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, and [https://langholmen.com/en Långholmen Hostel] in Stockholm, that used to be a prison. Apartments and B&B:s are not the same thing, but Swedish online booking agencies tend to think so. Renting an apartment may be an interesting option if you plan to stay for a few nights in one of the major cities and want more privacy than a hostel offers. Road signs with the word '''''Rum''''' don't show the way to the nearest drinking den for pirates - rum in Swedish means "room", and that sign points to a B&B. ===Hotels=== [[File:Ice Hotel Church Jukkasjärvi.jpg|thumb|The Ice Hotel in [[Jukkasjärvi]].]] Normal Swedish hotels tend to be clean, not-so-interesting and fairly expensive. A single room can easily set you back 1000&nbsp;kr. Most towns, even smaller ones, still have a traditional ''stadshotell'', ''Statt'', (town hotel) somewhere in the city center, which usually contains the town's largest restaurant and/or nightclub. On a more positive note, breakfast buffets at Swedish hotels are often impressive with plenty to choose from - try not to be in too much of a hurry in the morning! Major hotel chains include Scandic and First. It doesn't matter how many circumflexes Stockholm's Grand Hôtel uses, or how many celebrities stay there, the coolest hotel in Sweden is the '''Icehotel'''. Located in the village of Jukkasjärvi in the far north, it is a hotel built from snow and ice. It melts in spring and is rebuilt every winter. Ice hotels are built in several other countries, but the one in Jukkasjärvi is the original. One night in a single room is 2850 kr, book in advance. There are an increasing number of hotels in Sweden that are "cashless" which means cash may no longer be used to settle payments. Thus, make sure you have a debit/credit card or try to settle your accommodation payment before you start your trip. ===Vacation homes=== Sweden has 680,000 [[Second homes|vacation homes]]. Many of those are old farmhouses, or simple cabins from the early 20th century. Most vacation homes (except the most isolated ones) have electricity. Countryside or island houses usually have no public water supply, and rely on a local water pump, and an outhouse. While dwellings in holiday hotspots such as the [[Stockholm archipelago]], [[Åre]] or [[Visby]] can cost as much as an urban home, woodland farmhouses in [[Småland]] or far-off parts of [[Norrland]] can be bought for a token sum of money. As Sweden is a high-income country, carpentry and other home improvement services are costly. ===Rental homes and hospitality exchange=== As Sweden has strong rent control and tenant protection, a rental contract is difficult to get in and near the largest cities. The most common apartment ownership in Sweden is ''bostadsrättsförening'', a condominium-like organization. [[Hospitality exchange]] services such as Airbnb can be found in Sweden, but rooms are much fewer than in other European countries, due to regulations. ==Learn== {{disclaimerbox|You can find more useful information about studying in Sweden on the ''[http://www.studyinsweden.se Study in Sweden]'' website.}} [[File:Uppsala7.jpg|thumb|[[Uppsala]] has had a university since 1477.]] Sweden is well-known for its high-quality education system. The country strongly emphasises equal and accessible education for all its citizens and is home to some of Europe's most prestigious universities. All education in Sweden is free for residents. Although the government has subsidized schools and classes, a few private alternatives exist where a tuition fee is required. Students' Union membership is optional, but the union fee of around 500&nbsp;kr/year can give several perks, such as mediation of dorm rooms or entrance to union parties and events. If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen wishing to study at a Swedish university or other schools of higher education, you will need to pay tuition fees. Regardless, you must pay for housing, food, literature, etc. Most undergraduate courses are taught in Swedish, though many postgraduate courses are taught in English. Many universities also conduct lessons for foreigners who wish to learn Swedish. '''Some important university cities''': * [[Uppsala]] * [[Lund]] * [[Gothenburg]] * [[Stockholm]] * [[Linköping]] * [[Umeå]] Most universities follow the custom known as an "academic quarter", where classes and most academic events will begin 15 minutes past the hour. At some schools after 18:00, this becomes a "double quarter" where events commence 30 minutes past the hour. Students are expected to be punctual and show up at the appropriate time. The '''[https://www.kth.se/en KTH Royal Institute of Technology]''' (''Kungliga Tekniska högskolan'') is the country's largest and most prestigious technical university. ==Work== [[File:Sandhamn February 2013 04.jpg|thumb|[[Sandhamn]] in February]] Sweden has a strong welfare system, a high standard of living, and a robust economy. Working in Sweden can be a great opportunity for those seeking to work in a dynamic and innovative environment. Citizens of the Nordic countries, the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland have the right to enter, reside, and work in Sweden freely. Everyone else, however, needs a work permit to work in Sweden. More information about the paperwork required is found on the government website [http://www.swedenabroad.com Sweden Abroad]. With an unemployment rate of 7.6% (as of 2023), finding a job in Sweden can be a competitive affair. A decent knowledge of [[Swedish phrasebook|Swedish]] will significantly enhance your employment opportunities. The government runs a job agency named ''Arbetsförmedlingen'', but most jobs are provided through other channels. The average hourly wage was 188 kr in Dec 2022 <!-- https://take-profit.org/en/statistics/wages/sweden/#:~:text=What%20is%20average%20wage%20in,Data%20published%20Monthly%20by%20Statistics. -->, and is typically paid once per month. ==Stay safe== [[File:Swedisch police car in Gothenburg 02.jpg|thumb|Swedish police car]] [[File:Tunnelbanan.jpg|thumb|Swedish security officers]] Sweden is generally a safe place to travel. Avoid drunk brawls on weekend nights as you would in most parts of the world, look out in the traffic and, if driving, look out for wildlife crossing the road, and you'd be quite safe. Also mind [[ice safety]] and the advice for any potentially risky activity you are going to engage in, including boating and hiking. There are also pickpockets, mainly in urban and touristy areas. ===Crime and law enforcement=== You might want to avoid dense low-income suburbs on the edge of major cities (known in Swedish as ''utsatta områden''), although few of them pose any danger to the average visitor. There has been a noticeable rise in violent gang crime over the last few years, making headlines abroad and causing an intense discussion in Sweden. However this violent crime wave (''våldsvågen'') is very unlikely to affect you, as it mostly is about influence over the illegal narcotics, gambling, prostitution and labour trafficking markets. Most Swedes trust that cars will stop at zebra crossings, or even wherever they choose to cross a street. Still, do watch out yourself. Although there is a significant police presence in the city centres, especially on weekend nights, the countryside is quite weakly policed; especially Norrland, where the nearest patrol car – and the nearest ambulance – might be a hundred kilometres away. [[Pickpockets]] usually work in tourist-frequented areas, such as [[at the airport|airports]], rail stations, [[public transportation]], shopping areas and festivals. Most Swedes carry their wallets in their pockets or purses and feel quite safe while doing it. If you have a bike, do lock it or you may lose it. Authorized security officers carry a grey uniform labelled ''ordningsvakt'', and have the authority to use force. They patrol nightclubs, shopping malls, festivals and city centres. Security staff without special authority have the badge ''väktare''. While Swedish police and security officers are helpful to well-behaving people, '''detention''' laws are rather harsh, and do not allow bailout. Police can detain overly intoxicated people overnight if they endanger others or themselves, and relocate people who behave disorderly, even without suspicion of crime. A suspect of crime can be jailed until trial, if the court sees a risk of flight (which is often the case for foreigners). The '''age of consent''' is 15 or, towards people under ones care, 18. Consent has to be clearly expressed: if one part is passive, the case may be considered a rape (even if there is no penetration). Although being a prostitute is not illegal in Sweden, hiring one is a crime. '''[[Knives|Knife]]'''-carrying in public areas is criminalised (except blunt or very small knives) unless needed for work, outdoor life, or other activities. Packing down a knife with camping equipment is no problem. Likewise, '''tear gas''' or '''pepper spray''' require authorization to be carried in Sweden, and you will probably not have use for them either way, due to the country's low rate of violent crime. ===In case of emergency=== '''112''' is the emergency phone number to dial in case of fire or medical or criminal emergency. It does not require an area code, regardless of what kind of phone you're using. The number works on any mobile phone, with or without a SIM card, even if it's keylocked (without SIM, you will be asked to press "5" before the call will be answered). Swedish police are stretched thin across the country. Officers are rarely on patrol, and might be too busy to head out for minor crimes. To report a theft or getting in contact with the police in general, there is a national non-emergency phone number '''114&nbsp;14''' that will bring you in contact with an operator at a police station (usually nearby, but not always). ===Predators=== '''[[Dangerous animals#Bears|Brown bear]]''' (''brunbjörn''), '''wolf''' (''varg''), '''lynx''' (''lo'') and '''wolverine''' (''järv'') roam the Swedish wilderness, though they are unusual to sight. Bears are most likely to attack if they are injured, provoked by a dog, going to hibernate or protecting their cubs. Bears in Sweden have killed no more than a handful of people since 1900. Though wild wolves might attack pets and livestock, they avoid people. ===Animal collisions=== [[Animal collisions]] are a serious risk factor on the road, especially at dusk. Elk (''älg''), deer (''hjort'') and wild boar (''vildsvin'') are common, the latter only in southern Sweden. Reindeer (''ren'') are common in [[Norrland|Lapland]]. Many national roads (''riksväg'') and most European routes (''europaväg'') have long sections with wildlife fences (''viltstängsel'') to keep large animals away. A traffic sign usually warns when the wildlife fence ends with the text: ''Viltstängsel upphör''. In mountainous Lapland it is common that herds of reindeer take up the road, and it is not uncommon that a rock ptarmigan (''fjällripa'') suddenly decides to cross the road. ==Stay healthy== Certified pharmacies carry a green cross sign and the text '''Apotek'''. For small medical problems the pharmacy is sufficient. Major cities carry one pharmacy open at night. Many supermarkets carry non-prescription supplies such as band aid and antiseptics, but strong painkillers and other actual medicines are sold only at pharmacies, even those that don't require a prescription. Swedish '''health care''' is usually of high quality, but can be quite challenging for foreigners to receive. Most medical clinics are run by the public sector, and their accessibility varies. Therefore, getting a time within a week at some medical centres could prove difficult. In case of a medical emergency, most provinces (and of course, the major cities) have a regional hospital with an around-the-clock emergency ward. However, if you are unlucky you can expect a long wait before getting medical attention. Call '''112''' for emergencies, and '''1177''' for non-emergency medical consulting, as well as directions for open medical clinics. Bring your [[European Union#Health coverage for EU residents|European Health Insurance Card]], if you are eligible to one. '''[[Tap water]]''' in Sweden is of great quality, and contains close to zero bacteria. Water in mountain resorts might contain rust, and water on islands off the coast might be brackish, but it is still safe to drink. There is no real reason for buying bottled water in Sweden. Also, there is bottled water that doesn't meet the requirements to be used as tap water in Sweden. There are few serious health risks in Sweden. Your primary concern in winter will be [[cold weather]], particularly if hiking or skiing in the northern parts. Northern Sweden is sparsely populated and, if heading out into the wilderness, it is imperative that you register your travel plans with a friend or the authorities so they can come looking for you if you fail to show up. Dress warmly in layers and bring along a good pair of sunglasses to prevent '''[[snow blindness]]''', especially in the spring. In snowy mountains, '''[[avalanches]]''' might be a problem. ===Pests=== '''[[Mosquitoes]]''' (''myggor'') are a serious nuisance particularly in the north and during wet summers. While they do not carry diseases, their bites are itchy and their distinctive whining sound can get highly irritating. As usual, they are most active around dawn and sunset – which, in a land of the Midnight Sun, may mean most of the night in summer. Supermarkets have many types of mosquito repellents (''myggmedel''). Other summer nuisances are '''gadflies''' (''bromsar''), whose painful but non-venomous bites can leave a mark lasting for days, and '''[[Pests#Wasps|wasps]]''' (''getingar'') whose stings in very rare cases can be deadly for allergics. Use mosquito repellent, ensure your tent has good mosquito netting, and bring proper medication if you know that you're allergic to wasp stings. '''[[Pests#Ticks|Ticks]]''' (''fästingar'') appear in summer, especially in tall grass. They can transmit Lyme's disease (borreliosis) and TBE (tick-borne encephalitis) through a bite. The risk areas for TBE are mainly parts of Götaland and Svealand ([https://www.folkhalsomyndigheten.se/smittskydd-beredskap/smittsamma-sjukdomar/tbe/omraden-med-forhojd-forekomst-av-tbe/ map and list of municipalities with high risk of TBE]). Wear bright clothes, and check your body (and your pets) after outdoor trips. You can buy special tick tweezers (''fästingplockare'') from the pharmacy. There's only one type of venomous '''[[Dangerous animals#Snakes|snake]]''' in Sweden: the European adder (''huggorm''). The snake is not very common, but lives all over Sweden except for the northern mountains. Its bite is hardly ever life-threatening (except to small children and allergic people), but people bitten should promptly seek medical assistance. All reptiles in Sweden, including adders, are protected by law and must not be harmed. There are no really dangerous marine animals in Sweden, although when bathing in the sea one should watch out for Greater weevers (''fjärsing''); a small fish hiding in sand, with several venomous spikes on its back. The venom is about as dangerous as that of the European adder. There are also venomous [[jellyfish]], bright blue or red, in the sea. The venom is not lethal, but it hurts. [[Poisonous plants#Stinging nettles|Stinging nettles]] grow in wet and nitrogen-rich places (especially where people urinate outdoors), but getting stung is generally not dangerous, only locally hurting for a few hours. ==Respect== [[File:Stockholm Pride 2010.jpg|thumb|The [[Stockholm]] Pride Festival is held annually in June/August. Same-sex marriage is legal in Sweden, and homosexuality is nearly universally accepted.]] {{quote|I never said, "I want to be alone." I only said, "I want to be let alone!" There is all the difference|author=Greta Garbo; usually quoted to describe Swedish people's desire for privacy}} Many Swedes have '''liberal, cosmopolitan, secular, egalitarian and environmentalist values''' by international standards, similar to other Nordic countries. This spares Western tourists from some cultural clashes that might be imminent in other countries. However, some strict rules of etiquette are almost unique to Swedish people. There are also intolerant circles. {{infobox|Sweden – a country of numbers|Swedish people are reputed to be rigid and organized. Almost everything has a number. Swedish people have a ten-digit '''personal identity number''' (starting by date of birth in the form YYMMDD) used in contact with all kinds of government authorities, usually mentioned before the name. Customers in Swedish shops or banks need to take a '''queue number''' note from a machine to be served in order. Each product at ''Systembolaget'' is known for its product number (which is often easier to keep track of than foreign-sounding names), and the most important feature in selection is the '''alcohol content''' (often divided by price to find the most cost-efficient product). If you order a drink in the bar, be prepared to tell how many centilitres of liquor you want. Most grocers provide '''milk''' in four or more fat content levels (plus an organic version of each, barista milk and low lactose milk, not to mention ''filmjölk'', yoghurt and all other milk products). Before going outdoors, Swedes check '''air temperature''', and before bathing in open water, they check '''water temperature'''. Many Swedes also own barometers, hygrometers and rain gauges to support the eternal conversation about weather with statistics. In conversation about housing, Swedes define their '''flats''' by number of rooms (''En trea'' – "a three" – is simply a three-room-and-kitchen flat) and usually ask each other about the area by square meter. They have '''week numbers''' running from 1 to 52. The world famous furniture retailer IKEA diverts from this pattern, with Nordic product names.}} <!-- Note to editors: Do not try to push a political agenda by unsupported claims about drug use. Suggest changes on [[Talk:Sweden]] before adding text. --> * Though some people in Sweden use '''narcotics''', most Swedes, old and young, are strongly '''opposed''' to them. Possession and intoxication of non-medical drugs (including [[cannabis]]) lead to a fine and a note in the criminal record. The police can force a suspected drug user to produce a urine or blood sample. * When it comes to '''alcohol''', Swedes are as double-natured as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Before work or driving, one beer is one too many. However, drunkenness can be a regular part of many Swedish traditions (e.g. Midsommar, Valborg, etc.) – keep this in mind if you abstain from alcohol. Some Swedes frown on people being sober at a party and reject excuses other than driving or pregnancy. * Swedish people want and expect '''privacy''' and personal space. Salespeople, waiters and other service employees are usually less attentive than their colleagues in other countries, to respect customers' privacy, except a short "hej" to entering customers. Customers are supposed to call for attention. When entering a bus or another form of public transportation it is often considered impolite to sit next to another person if there is another twin seat available. This also applies to international celebrities, who can generally walk around the streets without being bothered by the general public; approaching a celebrity outside official fan events is extremely disrespectful in Swedish culture. * In most homes it is customary to '''remove your shoes'''. If you just assume that you are to take them off upon entry, in most cases you will have done the right thing, but you could check whether other guests have left theirs by the front door. If you are dressed up and feel undressed without shoes, bring ''indoor shoes'', like many of the guests will. At more formal parties also wearing outdoor shoes ''may'' be acceptable. Indoor shoes may also be brought for warmth (especially to cottages and the like): most Swedish homes have wood flooring; wall-to-wall carpets are uncommon. * Despite rumours of the "Swedish sin", Swedish people are generally not accepting of public nudity except at designated [[nudism|nudist]] beaches. Don't go skinny-dipping in public beaches if you are more than about four years old. Female toplessness is accepted at public baths, but uncommon. Public '''breastfeeding''' is a consolidated right at any place, even at business meetings and high-end restaurants. Male toplessness is accepted in the countryside and at the beach, but might be frowned upon in urban areas. * Greetings between men and women who know each other (e.g., are good friends, relatives) are often in the form of a '''hug'''. Swedes don't cheek-kiss to greet but are aware that other cultures do. If you are a visitor from France and do cheek-kiss a Swede, they will attempt to return the favour but probably feel a bit awkward doing so. * '''Show up on the minute''' for meetings and meals, preferably five minutes before the set time. There is no "fashionably late" in Sweden. However, showing up early at a private invitation is considered rude. If it's acceptable to arrive late, it's usually mentioned specifically (e.g., "...arrive after 1700") or there are established rules (some universities apply an "akademisk kvart", an academic quarter hour, within which it is acceptable to arrive to lectures). * Sweden is quite tolerant about '''homosexuality'''. Same-sex marriages have legal standing in Sweden. The chance of facing extreme criticism or homophobia is low in Sweden, as the country has anti-discrimination and hate crime laws. Violence against gays and lesbians is very rare. * Sweden is a '''multicultural country'''. Do not make assumptions based on peoples' appearance. Outward displays of racism, sexism, or homophobia are often met with hostility. Even slight preferences may be noticed and noted. That being said, there has been a rise of racist instances towards Swedes of colour, particularly with immigrant backgrounds. Do not be afraid to call the police if you feel like you are in danger. * As of the 2020s, '''[[begging|beggars]]''' from the [[Balkans]] (typically of [[Roma culture in Europe|Roma origin]]) can be seen in most towns or cities. Homeless Swedes beg as well; while there can be many of them in city centres, the transactions usually take place without nuisance. Loitering outdoors, begging, and handing money to beggars is not illegal in Sweden. Many municipalities, though, have made it compulsory for beggars to file for a permit to beg in public, which indirectly has curbed the trend; the social services are supposed to take care of those in need. * A sensitive topic in Sweden is [[hunting]] and wildlife management, especially when it comes to the population of '''wolves''' and other predators. People in the countryside have strong opinions on the subject. * Swedish decision-making processes are based on '''consensus'''. Swedes are generally raised to concentrate on what unites, rather than on what divides. For a foreigner it may seem odd that it can be very difficult for a Swede to counter your opinion with a plain "no" or "never". Most Swedes will try to counter your opinion with something positive – to create consensus, or will say nothing at all. This does not mean they do not have an opinion of their own. Have this in mind when trying to get to know Swedes. Approach them with questions and queries that can be answered in a positive way – and you will break the ice. The less positive truth comes out when Swedes will trust you in consuming alcoholic beverages with them. * '''Gender neutrality''' is an important part of Swedish culture, and most parents aim to raise their children in a gender-neutral way. For instance, toy manufacturers are required to market their products in a gender-neutral way, and Swedish schools aim to treat boys and girls equally; check with the family before bringing a Barbie doll as a present. Both sexes work in all trades and positions. *'''Local pride''' is strong in Sweden for each county, province or municipality. There is also a cultural gap between the capital Stockholm and the rest of the country. Stockholmers are perceived as arrogant know-it-alls by non-Stockholmers, and people from outside Stockholm, especially from Scania, are perceived by Stockholmers as yokels and backwards-thinking. This cultural gap stems to a degree from a historical background, inasmuch as governors (''landshövding'') were appointed by the king, and they nowadays are appointed by the national government in Stockholm as leaders of the counties. *'''Money''' is a taboo topic in Sweden, and many Swedes are more comfortable talking about their sex lives than their personal finances. *'''Queueing''', standing in line for something, is very organised in Sweden. Always look for the dispenser with the numbered queue slips (''kölapp'', ''nummerlapp''). Expect to be reprimanded by staff or bystanders if you approach without a queue slip or with the wrong queue slip. *Although 52.8% of Swedes are members of the Church of Sweden (as of 2022), an Evangelical Lutheran church, Sweden is by and large a '''secular country''', and only a minority of Swedes go to church regularly. Freedom of religion is generally respected, but most people are uncomfortable discussing religion with people they are not very close to. ==Cope== [[File:Grayling Fishing Klarelven.JPG|thumb|Rod [[fishing]] is generally allowed in seawater and the largest lakes. Fishing in small lakes or rivers, as here in Klarälven, [[Värmland]], usually requires a license.]] {{infobox|Urban legend: "Why do all Swedish families hire gay nannies?"|The story tells that some English-speaking visitors to a Swedish city were perplexed by the sight of men in their thirties pushing baby strollers along the streets. While the visitors in the story assumed they were nannies hired by the family (and homosexual, for some reason), these men are full-time fathers. Sweden has one year of paid parental leave, of which three months are designated for each parent. While world leading in paternity leave, the current debate in Sweden is why fathers spend ''too little'' time with their babies. }} Around payday, on the 25th of each month, stores and bars can get very crowded. Carry your passport or official ID, as you will frequently be asked to prove age or identity – for instance when using your credit card, when buying alcohol, when renting accommodation or when entering bars and clubs. You will also need it to register a prepaid phone account (see "Connect"). Driving licences are sometimes accepted, especially the EU ones. Banks accept only Swedish identity documents. Swedish bureaucracy is efficient but rigid. ===Tobacco=== [[Smoking]] is not allowed in restaurants, bars or any other indoor establishments (except outdoor terraces and designated smoking rooms). Smoking in someone's home is usually out of the question; if you ask kindly you might be allowed to light up on the balcony or the porch. Relatively few Swedes smoke daily, but some men and women use "'''[[Tobacco#Smokeless tobacco|snus]]'''" (snuff), a tobacco pouch inserted into the upper lip. It comes in a wide variety of different styles and flavours and in both loose and portion form. Portions are more popular and generally recommended for public events, as loose snus can be very messy when removed. Unlike American oral tobaccos, it is not usually necessary to spit if the snus is properly placed. Most bars and clubs will have snus receptacles instead of ashtrays on the tables. Be warned, however, that snus can seem very harsh to first time users, with a nicotine level several times that of cigarettes. If you want to carry some out of the country, check regulations. ===Clothing=== Bring warm '''clothes''' and extra shoes. Weather in Sweden is unpredictable. It can get cold and wet, but almost never too hot. Most buildings have sufficient heating; air conditioning is however mostly found in commercial buildings, rarely in private homes. If you plan on staying in Sweden for an extended period of time, pack some rain clothes. If you don't own any, they can be bought in many stores across Sweden – but can be somewhat expensive. ===Toilets=== The availability and standard of public [[toilets]] varies a lot. Except gas stations, they are available at most rest areas. Public toilets in cities and at rail stations might be scarce, and often require a fee (which can be as high as 12kr in the more upscale shopping centres). Toilets in city restaurants are usually for guests only. There are approximately 270 public rest areas (''rastplats'') along the roads in Sweden ([https://www.trafikverket.se/trafikinformation/vag/?TrafficType=personalTraffic&map=1/679352.98/6901020.99/&Layers=Restarea%2b map]); there should be one for every 40–80 minutes of driving, i.e. every 50–100 km. They should have at least a toilet, an information board, some benches and a waste management system, all accessible by the disabled. Some are well-planned and nice. Urinating behind a tree at a countryside road is acceptable; in a city street it is criminalized and might lead to a fine. ===Pets=== [[Travelling with pets|Pets]] have rights according to Swedish law. One of these rights stipulates that a dog or a cat must be offered water at least every six hours. At many restaurants that serve outdoors a bowl of water is placed outdoors to accommodate pets. They also have the right to be walked. In many municipalities it constitutes a breach of the environmental act to leave dog faeces (''hundbajs'') in public places. Since it is legal to film people littering for the sake of filing legal charges, walking the dog might get expensive if their droppings are left unattended. Plastic bags for dog poo (''hundbajspåse'') are for sale at almost any supermarket. The droppings, packed, should be left at a dedicated litter bin, found in green areas in these municipalities. From 1 March to 20 August special attention is required when walking a dog in the wild. Dogs are not allowed to roam freely where game lives. In practice, this means that they should be leashed unless you manage to keep them at a similar distance without. During the rest of the year, the dog must be leashed or within sight and command, at all times. When entrance is permitted for dogs to national parks and nature reserves, they must always be leashed. The dog owner is always legally responsible for their dog, and subject to damages even if not criminally guilty. Specific rules apply when a dog is with a hunting party. ==Connect== === Mail === [[File:Briefkasten Schweden.jpg|thumb|Post box in Sweden]] The national postal service in Sweden is run by '''[http://www.postnord.se/en/ PostNord]''' and is considered efficient and reliable. Postal service points (''[https://www.postnord.se/en/online-tools/tools/track/search-letter-box-or-service-point serviceställe]'' or ''postombud'') sells postage stamps and can be found in many supermarkets and grocery stores all over the country. Post boxes are yellow with the postal logo, and are emptied once every workday. Domestic mail is delivered every second workday. Parcels are delivered every workday, in some places even on Saturdays. An unregistered priority (airmail) postcard or letter with a weight of less than 50 grams is {{SEK|44}} for all international destinations (as of January 2025). Alternatively, packages can be sent within Sweden and to international destinations with '''[https://www.dhl.com/se-en/home/ship/document-and-parcel-shipping-options.html DHL]''' or within Sweden and the [[European Union]] with '''[https://skicka.dbschenker.com/ DB Schenker]'''. The latter website is in the Swedish language only, and you might need the help of a local to book and send a package. === Telephone and Internet === Sweden's international calling code number is +46. Public pay phones ceased to exist in 2015. Sweden is the world's second most Internet-connected country (after [[Iceland]]). Sweden has excellent wireless GSM and 3G/UMTS coverage, even in rural areas, except in the central and northern interior parts of the country (there the state-owned Telia is your best bet). Swedish GSM operates on the European 900/1800&nbsp;MHz frequencies (Americans will need a triband phone), with 3G/UMTS on 2100&nbsp;MHz (with 7.2–14.4 Mbit HSDPA speeds). 4G/LTE coverage is also widely available, and 5G is being deployed in major urban areas, expected to reach maximum coverage by all providers in 2025. 2G/GSM and 3G/UMTS are being phased out and the termination of service is planned 2025 to 2027 depending on network. The major operators are '''[https://www.telia.se Telia]''', '''Tele2''', '''[https://www.telenor.se Telenor]''' and '''3 (Tre)'''. The major operators have discounted services via their affiliated brands – '''[https://www.halebop.se Halebop]''', '''[https://www.comviq.se Comviq]''', '''Vimla''', and '''Hallon'''. Some operators may require a Swedish personnummer (or samordningsnummer) to get a number, although all operators (except Hallon!) that sell prepaid will allow you to get it without any "personnummer" (Tele2 and 3 do not sell prepaid, so they are not linked here) If you already have a SIM from another EU/EEA country, you may be able to continue using it in Sweden, subject to any fair-use limits imposed by your home provider. Roaming with a non-EU/EEA provider is probably much more expensive than buying a local prepaid SIM. UK providers may or may not offer cheap roaming. Prepaid SIM cards (''kontantkort'') and refills are sold at the Pressbyrån outlets, as well as at most supermarkets and tobacco stores. They have fairly generous mobile data allowances. Check the registration process: Since 2022, all Swedish prepaid SIMs need to be registered to a person with a Swedish personnummer, a BankID, or valid photo ID (passport or identity card) before they can be used. The procedure varies depending on the provider. Telia and Halebop require you to bring the SIM to a Telia store for registration, and requires a form that has to be sent off to the central support desk for processing. This can take a few hours before you can start purchasing plans to use. Telenor SIMs can be registered by yourself online [https://www.telenor.se/handla/kontantkort/registrera-kontantkort/ here] and are ready to load and use immediately after the necessary data is uploaded. Hallon SIMs can '''not''' be registered without BankID, so avoid their SIMs. Prepaid USB 4G/LTE modems, or data-only SIMs for a modem you already have, can be bought in many stores. They are a good alternative to Wi-Fi, costing relatively little (300kr a month will get you {{nowrap|20–30 GB}} depending on provider, and a couple of providers even offer unlimited data for a slightly higher price). Alternatively, these days, all providers allow tethering, meaning that a phone's data connection can be shared to any other devices within Wi-Fi range without having to purchase a separate device. Fast food chains, libraries, hotels, cafés and malls and others may offer free Wi-Fi access. Fixed terminals where you can pay for internet access exist as well, although many libraries can provide the same service for free. If you are planning on continuing to use your SIM in another EU/EEA country after leaving Sweden, it is important to familiarize yourself with each provider's EU roaming policy and purchase a SIM with that in mind. Halebop limits EU roaming to 10 GB a month. Comviq has fair-use limits in place that vary by plan. Only Telenor and Telia allow full use of their prepaid plans across the entire EU/EEA without any extra charge. It is, however, not possible to buy refill vouchers for these products outside Sweden in general (although Telenor and Telia will both accept foreign credit cards for refills online). {{usablecountry}} {{isPartOf|Nordic countries}} {{geo|63|18|zoom=5}} {{related|Driving in Sweden}} {{related|Sixteen days in Götaland and Svealand}} tiei8iq6glvee4fhg92g7r4oo58o93s 0 35389 5091115 5065112 2025-07-11T01:10:05Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Get in */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091115 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Tasmania banner 4.jpg|unesco=yes|dotm=yes}} :''"TAS" redirects here. For other users, see [[Tas]]. For the airport, see [[Tashkent#By plane]].'' '''Tasmania''' (palawa kani: ''lutruwita'') is the island state of [[Australia|Australia]], southeast of the mainland. Tasmania encompasses the main island of Tasmania, the 26th largest island in the world, and over 1000 smaller islands, both inhabited and uninhabited. It is the smallest state in Australia by both area and by population, with just over 500,000 permanent residents. Over 45% of Tasmania is protected by [[Tasmanian national parks|national parks]] and world heritage sites, and it features diverse climates, flora and fauna, many of which are found nowhere else in Australia, and a rich heritage, both Indigenous and post-colonial. You'll find the inhabitants notably more polite, friendly and helpful than in big cities on the mainland such as [[Melbourne]], [[Sydney]] and [[Brisbane]]. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Tasmania map.png | regionmaptext=Tasmania regions | regionmapsize=450px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | regionmapLat=-40.678 | regionmapLong=146.536 | regionmapZoom=6 | region1name=[[Southern Tasmania]] | region1color=#c5995c | region1items= | region1description=The most populous region of Tasmania, which includes Tasmania's capital and Australia's second oldest city, Hobart, which sits at the foot of kunanyi / Mount Wellington. | region2name=[[Eastern Tasmania]] | region2color=#cfcf94 | region2items= | region2description=This area encompasses the only other major city in Tasmania, Launceston and the Tamar Valley, the mountainous region of Ben Lomond, the Midlands, and the North East along with the stunning beaches including the Bay Of Fires and Wine Glass Bay, voted some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. | region5name=[[Western Tasmania|Central, Western and North Western Tasmania]] (Northwest Coast) | region5color=#acc2a6 | region5items= | region5description=A historic mining centre in Tasmania with extensive Victorian architecture, many small coastal townships, and scenic inland areas including the takayna / Tarkine with its Gondwanan rainforest. | region6name=[[Bass Strait Islands]] | region6color=#bcb491 | region6items=[[King Island]], [[Flinders Island]], [[Kent Group National Park|Kent Group]] | region6description=The secluded but very scenic island groups in the Bass Strait between mainland Tasmania and Victoria. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#bcb491|title=[[King Island]]|wikidata=Q794502|stroke-opacity=0.1}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#bcb491|title=[[Flinders Island]]|wikidata=Q938581|stroke-opacity=0.1}} {{mapshape |type=geoshape |fill=#acc2a6 |title=[[Western Tasmania]] |wikidata=Q7984754,Q2092649,Q648240,Q1848324,Q764011,Q1016792,Q1053740,Q927683,Q1575755,Q1848537,Q1739063,Q1665325 |stroke-opacity=0 }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c5995c|title=[[Southern Tasmania]] |wikidata=Q605668,Q1742110,Q1621560,Q1200416,Q740644,Q1095386,Q1435919,Q1848526,Q1848510 |stroke-opacity=0}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#cfcf94|title=[[Eastern Tasmania]] |wikidata=Q937765,Q1508377,Q964717,Q903612,Q386645,Q964717,Q1529157,Q1848356 |stroke-opacity=0}} ===Other=== * '''[[Macquarie Island]]''' is a [[Subantarctic islands|Subantarctic island]] around {{km|1500}} south-southeast of Tasmania. While it's administered as part of the Huon Valley, it's geologically, physically, and ecologically closer to many other Subantarctic islands, particularly the [[New Zealand Subantarctic Islands]]. ==Cities and townships== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hobart]]|url=|lat=-42.880556|long=147.325|wikidata=Q40191}} – the state capital and largest city located in the south of the island *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bicheno]]|url=|lat=-41.866667|long=148.283333|wikidata=Q2335428}} – beach town on the east coast *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Burnie]]|url=|lat=-41.063611|long=145.875278|wikidata=Q175262}} – the fourth largest city in Tasmania *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Devonport]]|url=|lat=-41.180556|long=146.346389|wikidata=Q705705}} – home to the Spirit of Tasmania ferry, third largest city *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Huonville]]|url=|lat=-43.033333|long=147.033333|wikidata=Q679881}} – gateway to southern Tasmania *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Launceston]]|url=|lat=-41.441944|long=147.145|wikidata=Q339527}} – the second largest city *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Queenstown (Tasmania)|Queenstown]]|url=|lat=-42.080556|long=145.555556|wikidata=Q1009718}} – historic mining town on the west coast *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Richmond (Tasmania)|Richmond]]|url=|lat=-42.733333|long=147.433333|wikidata=Q3407391}} – home to many old buildings dating back to the 19th century as well as the oldest bridge in use in Australia *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Strahan]]|url=|lat=-42.15|long=145.316667|wikidata=Q574085}} – one of the most isolated (and beautiful) parts of Australia and the largest centre in western Tasmania. ==Other destinations== [[Image:CradleMountain, Central Highlands, Tasmania, May 2005.jpg|thumb|250px|Cradle Mountain in Tasmania, a World Heritage site]] [[File:20100209 Wineglass Bay and The Hazards from Mt Amos peak.JPG|250px|thumb|Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park]] Tasmania has some of the most beautiful and diverse scenery not just in Australia but also the world. Over 45 percent of Tasmania is protected in national parks so you can't make a visit here without checking at least a couple of national parks out. The [[UNESCO World Heritage site]] '''[[Tasmanian Wilderness]]''' covers about a quarter of Tasmania. There's a park for every season and for every person. Discover spectacular landscapes from highlands carved by glaciers, including the only [[fjords]] in Australia, to quiet solitary beaches, from cool and silent rainforests, to colourful alpine wilderness wild flowers. [[Tasmanian national parks|Tasmania's 19 national parks]] encompass a diversity of unspoiled habitats and ecosystems which offer refuge to unique, and often ancient, plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ben Lomond National Park]]|url=|lat=-41.566667|long=147.666667|wikidata=Q816402}} – mountain with a ski resort. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bruny Island]]|url=|lat=-43.366667|long=147.283333|wikidata=Q25605}} – perhaps Tasmania's most visited offshore island *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park]]|url=|lat=-41.830278|long=145.924167|wikidata=Q1138453}} – one of Tasmania's most iconic landmarks and contains the [[Overland Track]], part of the Tasmanian Wilderness {{unesco}}. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park]]|url=|lat=-42.409444|long=146.031944|wikidata=Q1445146}} – part of the Tasmanian Wilderness {{unesco}}, home to several waterfalls. It is Tasmania's second largest national park. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Freycinet National Park]]|url=|lat=-42.125278|long=148.298333|wikidata=Q930677}} – known for its beaches and bay. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Hartz Mountains National Park]]|wikidata=Q827519}} – another {{unesco}} mountainous national park, just one hour away from Hobart *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mount Field National Park]]|wikidata=Q1905973}} – one of the more visited national parks in Tasmania, and a popular skiing area *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Port Arthur (Tasmania)|Port Arthur]]|url=|lat=-43.15|long=147.85|wikidata=Q999109}} – former convict settlement and a {{unesco}} *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Southwest National Park]]|url=|lat=-42.833611|long=146.149444|wikidata=Q967541}} – Tasmania's largest national park in the southwest of the island, part of the Tasmanian Wilderness {{unesco}}. It is a good place to spot the Southern Lights. ==Understand== ===History=== Tasmania has been inhabited by humans for approximately 60,000 years. Between around 6,000 BCE, sea levels rose and Aboriginal Tasmanians were entirely isolated from the rest of the human race, until the first contact with Europeans in 1777. The first reported sighting of Tasmania by a European was on 24 November 1642 by the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman. Captain James Cook landed at Adventure Bay in 1777. Matthew Flinders and George Bass first proved Tasmania to be an island in 1798–99. The first European settling of Tasmania was by the British at Risdon Cove on the eastern bank of the Derwent estuary in 1804. Penal settlements were established at Sullivans Cove (Hobart), Maria Island, Sarah Island, and [[Port Arthur (Tasmania)|Port Arthur]]. The colony changed its name from "Van Diemen's Land" to "Tasmania" in 1856. The Colony of Tasmania existed from 1856 until 1901, when it federated with the five other Australian colonies to form the Commonwealth of Australia. ===Geography=== [[File:Tasdevil large.jpg|thumbnail|Tasmanian devil]] {{infobox|Tasmanian devils|This carnivorous marsupial is the size of a small dog and found only in Tasmania. The largest carnivorous marsupial in the world, it is characterised by its stocky and muscular build, black fur, extremely loud and disturbing screech, and ferocity when feeding. Despite its appearance, the devil is capable of surprising speed and endurance and can climb trees and swim across rivers. Since the 1990s, a deadly disease, devil facial tumour disease, has drastically reduced the devil population and now threatens the survival of the species, which in 2008 was declared to be endangered. The disease is a transmissible cancer, which means that it is contagious and passed between animals when fighting, causing individual devils to die within months being infected. Programs are being undertaken to reduce the impact of the disease, including an initiative to build up isolated colonies of healthy devils in captivity. As of 2008 there were an estimated 10,000–15,000 remaining in the wild, but the decline is so rapid that they are predicted to become extinct before the year 2035. There are people that wish to take a more genetically resistant strain from the North West of Tasmania and introduce them to areas of mainland Australia where there are no dingoes in order to reduce feral cats and foxes and allow a better chance of survival for Australian native animals.}} Located in the Southern Ocean separated from mainland Australia by the Bass Strait and from [[New Zealand]] by the Tasman Sea, Tasmania is Australia's smallest state, with an area of 68,400 km² (26,410 square miles). It is comparable in size to the Canadian province of [[New Brunswick]] or the country of [[Ireland]]. It's within the range of the notorious "Roaring Forties" winds that encircle the globe. Tasmania's population is focused in the southeast and north in the regions around the cities of Hobart, Launceston, Burnie and Devonport. The Midlands (the area between Hobart and Launceston) is the driest region of Tasmania and is primarily used for cattle and sheep grazing. The Huon Valley and the area between Launceston and Burnie is used for both agriculture and horticulture. The Central Highlands, the West Coast and the Southwest Wilderness are all mountainous forested areas, a majority of which are protected inside national parks. Tasmania is very mountainous: while its tallest mountain, Mount Ossa, at 1,617 m (5,305&nbsp;ft) is not that high compared to global standards, the mountains are what characterise Tasmania. Much of Tasmania is densely forested, with [[Southwest National Park]] and neighbouring areas home to some of the last pristine temperate rainforests in the Southern Hemisphere. ===Politics=== Tasmania is one of the six founding members of the Commonwealth of Australia. It is separated into 29 smaller local government areas. Like all other states except for Queensland, Tasmania has a bicameral parliament; the Parliament of Tasmania consists of the Legislative Council (upper house) and the House of Assembly (lower house). In state elections, there are 5 electorates, each consisting of 7 members each (as of March 2024). There are four influential political parties in Tasmania. The Tasmanian Liberal Party is the state's centre-right party and is a division of the Liberal Party at the federal division. Tasmanian Labor is a centrist/centre-left party and a branch of the Australian Labor Party, of which it shares many similar values. The Tasmanian Greens, a branch of the Australian Greens, is a minor party, is a left-wing environmentalist party and is considered to be the successor of the United Tasmania Party, the world's first Green party; this was the first time that an environmentalist party had some success in politics. The Jacqui Lambie Network (JLN) is another minor but populist/right-wing party with a strong regional focus on Tasmania and Tasmanians. ===Climate=== [[File:Hellyer Gorge, Tasmania.jpg|250px|thumb|Hellyer Gorge Reserve]] Tasmania typically has more rainy days than anywhere else in Australia, with "four seasons in a day" being often the norm. The southwest and West Coast in particular receive a great amount of rainfall - so much of it that it is considered uninhabitable. Both cold waves from [[Antarctica]] and heatwaves from the mainland can reach the island anytime. The sea temperature is rather low throughout the year, even in the north. Tasmania has a cool temperate climate, comparable with that of northern Europe and/or [[Vancouver]] in British Columbia, Canada, with the following seasons: * '''Spring''' from September to November, with frequent snowfalls at higher elevations. * '''Summer''' from December to February. It has about 15 hours of daylight from 5:30AM to 8:30–9:30PM. * '''Autumn''' from March to May. Changeable weather. * '''Winter''' from June to August. High areas receive a good amount of snowfall. It has the least daylight with about 9 hours a day from 8AM to 4:30PM, but sometimes even earlier, especially in the Huon and Far South. ===Economy=== [[File:The Bridestowe Estate, Tasmania.jpg|250px|thumb|Lavender Farm, Tasmania]] Tasmania's main industries are [[mining]] (including copper, zinc, tin, and iron), forestry, agriculture, fresh produce ([[fruit and vegetables|fruit & vegetables]], dairy, [[seafood]], [[beer]] and [[wine]]), and tourism. The economy is affected by the Bass Strait, and how the freight and transport issues of goods into and out of the island are costed and subsidised, at times there are more Tasmanian-born people in Melbourne, than there are in Tasmania, due to the nature of the Tasmanian [[work|job market]]. ===Holidays=== '''National public holidays''' can be found in the [[Australia#Holidays|main Australia article]]. '''Statewide public holidays''' * 8-Hour Day (Labor Day): Second Monday of March (Eight Hours Day) * Recreation Day: First Monday in November (Except areas that observe Royal Hobart Regatta) '''Regional public holidays''' These apply to smaller areas of Tasmania: * Wednesday not earlier than fifth and not later than eleventh day of January: Devonport Cup (Devonport only) * Last Wednesday of February: Launceston Cup (Launceston and surrounds) * Second Monday of February: Royal Regatta Day (Southern Tasmania only) * First Tuesday of March: King Island Show (King Island only) * The Friday nearest the last day of November: AGFEST (Circular Head only) * The Friday before the first Saturday of October: Burnie Show (Burnie, Waratah-Wynyard and West Coast) * Thursday before the second Saturday of October: Royal Launceston Show (Launceston and surrounds) * The Friday before the third Saturday of October: Flinders Island Show (Flinders Island only) * The Friday before the third Saturday of October: Royal Hobart Show (Southern Tasmania only) * The Friday nearest the last day of November: Devonport Show (Devonport, Kentish and Latrobe only) ===Time zone=== Tasmania follows the same time zone as New South Wales, Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory: '''Australian Eastern Standard Time''' (UTC+10). Like the two southeastern states, Tasmania also observes daylight savings and follows the '''Australian Eastern Daylight Saving Time''' (UTC+11) between the first Sunday of October and April. ===Tourist information === * [http://www.discovertasmania.com Disvover Tasmania] website ==Get in== {{infobox|Tasmania's land border|Although an island state, a little known fact is that Tasmania has a land border with the mainland state of Victoria, across a tiny uninhabited island known as Boundary Islet, which is the result of a surveying error in 1801. At just 85m it is the shortest interstate land border in Australia.}} ===By plane=== [[File:Welcome to Hobart Airport.jpg|thumb|250px|The not-so-large Hobart International Airport]] There are no international scheduled flights to Tasmania, except seasonal flights from [[New Zealand]]. All other flights must come through mainland cities. There are seasonal flights over [[Antarctica]]. * Flights to [[Hobart]] from [[Melbourne]], [[Sydney]], [[Brisbane]], and the [[Gold Coast]] as well as [[Auckland]]. * Flights to [[Launceston]] from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. * Flights to [[Burnie]] and [[Devonport]] from Melbourne. * Flights to [[King Island]] and [[Flinders Island]] from Melbourne. See the local guides for more information. ===By ferry=== There is only one ferry route, which are the two [http://www.spiritoftasmania.com.au/ '''Spirit of Tasmania Ferries'''] from the Spirit of Tasmania terminal in [[Geelong]] and arrive at Devonport. See the [[Devonport#Get in|Devonport]] article for the details of the ferry. It takes a full night (or the full day during peak summer periods) for the crossing and takes vehicles, bikes, foot passengers and pets. The crossing can be a little choppy at times, but provides beautiful sunsets and costs around $200–300 each way (excluding the cost bringing a vehicle). You have the option of booking one of a range of a cabins or a reclining chair for the journey. Crossings can also be part of cruise ship itineraries. Rental car companies usually do not allow you to take their vehicles onto the ferry to Tasmania. If you have rented a car on the mainland and need one in Tasmania, it's best to drop the car off in Geelong, Victoria; rental cars are available at the Devonport terminal, but make sure you reserve your car in advance. The consequences of not having a car available when you arrive are that you don't get around at all. ==Get around== ===By car=== [[File:Clearance enforced - panoramio.jpg|thumb|A low-clearance bridge in the Central Highlands]] [[File:Señal peligro-canguros de noche.JPG|thumb|Watch out for wildlife]] Tasmania is perhaps Australia's most car-centric state: driving is not just the most convenient way to get around, but it is also the most practical. Cars can be brought into Tasmania from [[Geelong]] on the Spirit of Tasmania ferry, or hired upon arrival through the major operators typically found on the mainland. Car rentals typically do not permit taking the car on the ferry crossing. Car rentals also generally prohibit driving on unsealed roads, which are very common in Tasmania. Tasmania's speed limits are more liberal than the three states on the mainland's East Coast. By default, the maximum urban limit is 50 km/h, 80 km/h on gravel roads and 100 km/h on rural roads. However, on most rural roads, the government has practically adopted a "drive to conditions approach" by setting a 100 km/h limit on even the windiest of roads with few to no slow or overtaking lanes. In practice, if you're new to the area, you may struggle to even travel 80 km/h on these roads, but the limit is for those who are experienced with such road conditions. Remember, if you are not comfortable driving 100 km/h on "100 km/h changing road conditions" roads, ''you do not have to drive 100 km/h''. You may also encounter 110 km/h limits on the Midland, Bass and Tasman Highways. Tasmania has four main road classifications: National Highway, A-routes, B-routes, and C-routes. The only national highway is Tasmanian National Highway 1 comprising of the Brooker, Midland and Bass Highways between Hobart and Burnie. A-routes (numbered between 2 and 10) connect major regional centres, B-routes (numbered between 10 and 85, in addition to 110) connect minor towns to major regional centres or highways, while C-routes (numbered between 101 and 854) are smaller roads that typically connect B-routes to an even smaller destination. A route number does not necessarily reflect the road quality: until 2019, the A5 (Lake Highway) through the [[Highland Lakes]] was unsealed, and other A-routes such as the A3 are more windier than many B-routes in the north. Many major roads, even A-routes, wind their way through mountain passes and along coastlines, narrow and with few overtaking lanes, and some sections of remote roads may be in need of repair. Direct roads on the maps may take longer than you think. Take care on some of the winding or secondary roads, since some ute drivers and locals may try to overtake on dangerous stretches of road or tailgate you if you aren't travelling fast enough. Some local drivers, especially in suburban and semi-open areas (e.g. Bass Highway), will also tailgate and attempt dangerous manoeuvres to pass or overtake you, especially if they see you are driving a hire car. Be especially careful driving between dusk and dawn as this is when the wildlife is most active: keep on the lookout for wallabies, devils, possums and others. Tasmania has the unfortunate distinction of being the '''roadkill capital of the world'''. Wallabies and wombats can make a mess of your vehicle if hit. The Tasmanian government generally advises you drive 65 km/h between dusk and dawn and 45 km/h in some places like the Tasman Peninsula (Tasman Island). Exploring the forests can often lead to a maze of forest roads. A GPS can come in handy for finding your way out, although they are not always up to date. ====Driving with an overseas or interstate license==== Similar license conditions apply in Tasmania as with the rest of Australia if you're driving with an overseas license (except NZ), provided your license is in English (if it is not in English, you will need an IDP or a translation – see [https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/licensing/interstate_or_overseas_licences/driving_in_tasmania_on_an_interstate_or_overseas_licence Transport Tasmania]). Interstate and New Zealand license holders may drive in Tasmania for six months. Overseas learner and provisional drivers may also drive in Tasmania; however, they must follow [https://www.platesplus.tas.gov.au/novice_learner_restrictions_and_credit_hours Tasmanian learner] or [https://www.platesplus.tas.gov.au/getting_your_p1s/p1_restrictions P1 (red P)] license conditions. For learners, this includes always being supervised, '''never exceeding 90 km/h''' even when the speed limit is 100 or 110 km/h and yellow L plates visible from both the front and the back of the car. Overseas provisional drivers must '''never exceed 100 km/h''', even when the speed limit is 110 km/h and display red P plates visible from both the front and back of the car. Both overseas learner and provisional drivers must not use a mobile phone, even via Bluetooth (no Apple Carplay or Android Auto) and maintain a blood alcohol content of 0.00. This doesn't apply to interstate learner and provisional license holders – who follow the restrictions of your state. ===By bus=== Buses can be an option if time is on your side, but otherwise aren't a feasible way of getting around. Planning is advised since services can be infrequent. [https://www.wearekinetic.com/ Kinetic Tasmania] and [https://www.tassielink.com.au/ Tassielink] are the main long distance bus companies, with population centres serviced by [http://www.metrotas.com.au/ Metro Tasmania] for Burnie, Hobart and Launceston and [https://www.wearekinetic.com/au/devonport-north-west Kinetic, formerly Merseylink] that provide services to Devonport and Latrobe. If you are not in a major town (e.g. Hobart, Launceston and Burnie), bus services can be infrequent, expensive and hard to rely on. Make sure you have a copy of the timetable with you. [https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/public_transport/bus_timetables Tasmanian Government] bus timetable page. * '''[https://www.wearekinetic.com/au/launceston-north-east Kinetic Tasmania]''' destinations include: ** Derby, Scottsdale and Bridport (to and from Launceston) ** Low Head and George Town (to and from Launceston) ** Dodges Ferry and Sorell * '''[https://www.tassielink.com.au/ Tassielink]''' bus lines include: ** Coles Bay, Bicheno and Swansea (to Hobart) ** Hobart to Huon Valley (via Kingston, Ranelagh, Cygnet, Geeveston, Dover) ** Hobart to Campania (via Cambridge and Richmond) ** Dunalley, Tasman Peninsula, Eaglehawk Neck, Port Arthur, Nubeena ** Launceston to Cressy (via Evandale, Perth, Longford) ** Strahan to Burnie (via Queenstown) * '''[http://www.metrotas.com.au/ Metro Tasmania]''' connects different suburbs in Burnie, Hobart and Launceston. * '''[https://www.wearekinetic.com/au/devonport-north-west Kinetic]''' routes are: ** Route 170, 171: West & North Devonport ** Route 172, 173, 174: South Devonport & Miandetta ** Route 175: East Devonport ** Route 176: Ambleside ** Route 178: Latrobe (via Tarleton & Spreyton) ** Route 180, 182: Ulverstone to West Ulverstone & Devonport ** Route 183: Port Sorell (via Hawley & Shearwater) ** Route 184: Devonport-Sheffield via Railton ** Route 708: North West Express [https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/public_transport/bus_timetables Transport Tasmania], a government-run bus service, has infrequent buses to [https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/public_transport/bus_timetables/west_coast Queenstown], Strahan, Burnie, Coles Bay, St Helens, and other towns. ===By train=== There are no public train services. The many railways seen are used for freight only. The only passenger railways in Tasmania are heritage services that use vintage equipment. The '''[https://www.wcwr.com.au/ West Coast Wilderness Railway]''', a tourist train which runs between Strahan and Queenstown on the West Coast, is perhaps the best known, passing through some incredibly scenic areas. The trip takes about 3 hours with lunch included (very slow compared to the 30-minute car journey). ===By plane=== * '''[http://www.paravion.com.au Par Avion]''' offer scenic flights across the state and services into Melaleuca in [[Southwest National Park]]. * '''[http://www.airtasmania.com.au Airlines of Tasmania]''' offer flights between Launceston and [[Cape Barren Island]]. * '''[http://www.sharpairlines.com Sharp Airlines]''' offer flights to [[Flinders Island]] from Launceston and flights to [[King Island]] from Launceston and Burnie. ===By bicycle=== Bicycle touring is a popular way to see cities in Tasmania, but driving on rural roads can be very dangerous. Bicycle rental companies can be found in major cities and towns. ==See== ===Wildlife=== {{seealso|Australasian wildlife}} [[File:Pademelon de Tasmanie.jpg|thumbnail|Pademelon]] If you spend any time in the bush you are very likely to see: * '''Kangaroos, wallabies, and pademelons''' are everywhere throughout Tasmania. * '''Wombats''' can be found in many national parks and mostly come out at night. * '''Ringtail and brushtail possums''' only come out at night. Less common wildlife include: * '''Echidnas''' are rarely seen in the bush. They're more easily spotted when crossing roads. * '''Bandicoots and Potoroos''' are at the small end of the jumping marsupial scale. * '''Platypus''' are very elusive. If you are persistent and very quiet and still you may find one rummaging at the bottom of a creek. * '''Eastern and Spotted-tail Quolls''' very rarely seen. * '''Tasmanian devils''' are rarely seen in the wild. They can sometimes be spotted along roadsides eating roadkill at night and sometimes on the edge of rural towns. ===Landmarks=== {{see also|Tasmanian national parks}} * '''kunanyi / Mount Wellington''' is a large mountain that rises above Tasmania's capital city. Visitors can drive to the top, where a viewing lookout is located, and well maintained walking tracks are located in the foothills. A coffee van operates at the Springs, a picnic area mid way up the mountain. *'''Bay of Fires''' is one of Tasmania's most popular tourist destinations, located between Eddystone Point and Binalong Bay. Bay of Fires has beautiful blue water, red rocks, and sandy white beaches. Enter through Binalong Bay which is 10 minutes from St Helens. This area offers a wide range of activities including camping, boating, bird watching, fishing, swimming, surfing, and walking along the coastline. *'''[http://www.launcestoncataractgorge.com.au/gorgecliffgrounds.html Cataract Gorge]''' is a unique, natural formation within a two-minute drive from central Launceston known to locals as The Gorge. After walking 15 minutes from central Launceston along Tamar River into Gorge, you then follow the pathway along the cliff face looking down onto South Esk River. On the southern side, called the First Basin, there is a cafe, swimming pool, and Launceston's beach. The northern side, known as the Cliff Grounds, there is a kiosk, restaurants, swimming pool, and a chairlift across the river. The Cataract Gorge Reserve is one of Australia's most fascinating urban parks. *'''Hastings Caves''' include Newdegate Cave, the largest cave in Australia open to tourists. Tour magical chambers of flowstones and shawls, then relax in a thermal pool. Formations in the cave are spectacular and include flowstone, stalactites, columns, shawls, straws, stalagmites and the unusual helictites tendrils of calcite that grow in all directions in tiny filaments. *'''[[Mole Creek Karst National Park|Mole Creek Karst]]''' Tasmania's only national park featuring caves. Among many features are the King Solomon and Marakoopa Caves, both of which can be viewed with Tasmania Park Service guides leading you. The two caves are distinctly different and a separate entry ticket is required for each. Tour times are staggered throughout the day. Five [[world heritage]] listed convict sites are located in Tasmania, in the [[Eastern Tasmania|northeast]] and [[Southern Tasmania|south]] of the island. The best known is likely Port Arthur. [[File:PortArthurPenitentiary.jpg|250px|thumb|[[Port Arthur (Tasmania)|Port Arthur]]]] *'''[[Port Arthur (Tasmania)|Port Arthur]]''' is the best preserved convict site in Australia. Many years ago, this site played a key role in the colonial system of convict discipline. During your experience, you will have the chance to take guided tours of the Commandant's House, Parsonage, Trentham Cottage, Junior Medical Officer's quarters, historic buildings and ruins of the Penitentiary, Barracks, Guard Tower and military precinct, Hospital, Paupers' Depot and Asylum. Port Arthur is surrounded by beautiful bushland and trails available to explore the land around you. * '''[[Ross (Tasmania)|Ross]]''' is another convict town, but is not listed as a world-heritage site. It's known for its convict-built bridge and its old female factory, both of which are popular stopover destinations for those travelling on the Midland Highway between Hobart and Launceston. *'''Salamanca Place''' in Sullivans Cove, is Hobart's favourite hang out. Salamanca is lined with a long row of sandstone buildings built in the 1830s. You can wander under the heavy stone arches to find craft and design shops, jewellers, coffee shops, restaurants, bookshops, fashion boutiques, and the Salamanca Arts Centre and artists’ galleries. Every Saturday there’s the Salamanca Market, where you can buy anything from a handmade wooden toy or a hand-spun, hand-knitted sweater to fresh fruit and vegetables or a 50-year-old china plate. *'''The Nut''' is located at the historic village of [[Stanley (Tasmania)|Stanley]], in far north-west Tasmania. The Nut, a sheer-sided bluff is all that remains of an ancient volcanic plug. A walking track climbs to the summit of The Nut, or you can take the chairlift, with spectacular views across Bass Strait beaches and over the town. There is accommodation and an excellent campground in Stanley, and the town is a good base for exploring the forests and coastlines further west. ==Do== *'''Trout fishing'''. Trout Guides and Lodges Tasmania Incorporated (TGALT) is the industry body, that was voluntarily formed in 1981 as the Tasmanian Professional Trout Fishing Guides Association. Its primary purpose was to provide anglers with a source of guides that they could be assured, would provide a safe, appropriate and professional service. During 1995 the Association was expanded to specifically include trout fishing lodges as full members. *The '''[http://www.bv.com.au/Content/NavigationMenu/Events/Great_Tasmanian_Bike_Ride/Default402.htm Great Tasmanian Bike Ride]''' - held in early February. *'''Bicycle touring and mountain biking''' - there are some great places to ride your bicycle in Tasmania. *'''Scuba diving''' - Tasmania is home to some of the best temperate diving in the world. Along with its giant kelp forests and numerous shipwrecks, the waters reefs also offer an array of unique marine plants and animals. There are many dive sites along the coast, the most popular sites are at [[Bicheno]], [[Bay of Fires]], [[Flinders Island]], [[Fortescue Bay]], [[Tasman Peninsula]] and [[Maria Island]]. *'''Off road touring''' - Tasmania is a very rugged and heavily forested region, tourists happen to miss out on some incredible places if they do not have a vehicle with four-wheel-drive. Visitors can explore these trails with an experienced operator or either form or tag along with a group. Before exploring, make sure you have a current map of the area. In 2003, Tasmania changed the co-ordinate system used for all maps from AGD 66 to GDA 94. Also, ask the local land manager for the latest information on the condition of the area you plan to use and permits. *'''Wildlife watching'''. Because of its separation from mainland Australia, Tasmania is home to animals and plants that are rare or even extinct in other areas around the world. If visitors are watchful, they are very likely to witness these species on trails or near streams. Tourists can also be by a tour guide to point out these animals so you won't miss them! Some of these rare mammals include the Tasmanian Devil, Platypus, Echidna, Sugar Glider, Eastern Quoll, and Forester Kangaroo. *'''Hang gliding and the Flying Fox'''. [http://treetopsadventure.com.au/ Hollybank Treetops Adventure] takes visitors across treetops and gives them the experience of seeing Tasmania's forests in a whole new way - bird's-eye view! These canopy tours last for 3 hours and are led by highly trained professionals. Not only do guests take part in this unique adventure by soaring across about a kilometre of cable but they also learn about the forests below them. *'''Kayaking'''. After landing in Hobart's Airport, you are a mere 20-minute drive away from beginning your kayaking experience. Visitors can explore Tasmania's beautiful coastlines and search out secret coves by kayaking. There are professional kayak guides based in Hobart, Kettering, Port Arthur, Coles Bay, Launceston, and Strahan. Kayak travel through Tasmania's beautiful landscape offers relaxation and exhilaration that tourists will not want to miss out on. * Adventure activities including abseiling, all-terrain vehicles, bicycle touring, caves and caving, diving, jet boats, kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing, sky diving, swimming, surfing and whitewater rafting. ===Hiking=== {{see also|Hiking and bushwalking in Australia#Tasmania|Tasmanian national parks#Hiking}} No trip to Tasmania is complete without hiking. While many of the state's important natural attractions have since been linked by road, many photogenic locations still require you to hike or walk the very least, even if it's just for a few hundred metres (which wouldn't be considered hiking by most Australian standards). Contrary to the mainland, the vegetation seen on hikes is starkly different – and the temperate forests here tend to be more well-preserved. Conservation laws in Tasmania are stronger, so you may not find anything more than a boardwalk in some remote trails. If long-distance hiking isn't your gist, the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service has created the ''[https://parks.tas.gov.au/things-to-do/60-great-short-walks 60 Great Short Walks]''. See [[Hiking and bushwalking in Australia#Tasmania|Hiking and bushwalking in Australia &sect; Tasmania]] for more about trails, and [[Tasmanian national parks#Hiking|Tasmanian national parks &sect; Hiking]] about the grading system. On some trails, you ''must'' register before you hike. In many cases, this can as simple as writing your name and phone number on a book inside a mountain hut, but the entire purpose of this is for the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service to ensure that you come home safely. Weather can rapidly change and it's easy to become stranded in the Tasmanian Wilderness. It is better to be safe than sorry. Popular trails and/or trails that Wikivoyage has an article on: *'''[[Overland Track]]''': the iconic bushwalk from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair. Bookings are essential during the main walking season (November to April). *'''[http://www.southcoasttrack.com.au South Coast Track]''': the bushwalk along the south coast of Tasmania, from Melaleuca, to Cockle Creek. Fly in by aircraft and take a 6-day walk back home. *'''[[Three Falls Circuit]]''': a 7.5-km hike covering three impressive waterfalls in [[Mount Field National Park]] ==Buy== One of Tasmania's most famous products is '''leatherwood honey''', and there are numerous honey farms on the island in which you can purchase this. Like elsewhere in Australia, tipping can be considered very unusual, however, most of the time, it's well appreciated. Most Tasmanian's wages are well below the mainland so don't be surprised if the people here are a lot more grateful. On the other hand, unlike in the US, you probably won't be frowned upon at if you don't - because tipping in Australia is quite unusual. Tasmanian businesses no longer give out free plastic bags. Most local government areas also ban single use plastics for takeaway food. ==Eat== {{see also|Australian cuisine}} Tasmania has a wide variety of culinary offerings. Tasmania produces a wide range of cuisines, both quintessentially Australian foods, and a wide range of international offerings. Tasmania has a diverse immigrant community which has contributed to a colourful range of cuisines. Tasmanian produces much of its own food, including many crops you wouldn't expect, such as saffron, tea, truffles and wasabi. Many regions of Tasmania have particular specialties, for example King Island produces gourmet cheeses and beef and the Huon Valley is most famous for apples. Being surrounded by the sea, it is no surprise that Tasmania also has a strong seafood culture, with many dedicated seafood restaurants offering salmon, abalone, scallops, oysters, mussels and crayfish. Curried scallop pies are a particularly well known Tasmanian specialty. There is a [http://www.happycow.net/australia/tasmania/ list of vegetarian and vegetarian friendly eateries in Tasmania]. ==Drink== [[File:Cascade Brewery Hobart.jpg|thumb|Cascade Brewery, Hobart]] Tasmania has many exceptional world class beers, whiskies & wines. There are two major breweries in Tasmania; Cascade Brewery in Hobart and J. Boag & Sons Brewery in Launceston, which each offer tours. A number of boutique beer makers and distillers are spread around the state. You can tour the Tasmanian Wine Routes easily by car or on guided tours. The island's Wine Routes include the Tamar Valley, north of Launceston along both sides of the Tamar River and east to Pipers River; the Derwent, Coal River and Huon Valleys (together comprising the Southern Wine Route), an easy drive from Hobart; and the growing wine regions of the North West and the East Coast. Tasmania is the centre of Australia's craft [[whisky]] industry, and there are numerous distilleries throughout the state. Due to the similarity of Tasmania's climate to that of [[Scotland]], Tasmanian whiskies are primarily based on Scotch whiskies. Unlike in other areas, there is no large-scale commercial whisky distillation in Australia, and the industry is dominated by small boutique distilleries. Two of Tasmania's most important distilleries are '''[https://sullivanscove.com/ Sullivans Cove]''' in [[Cambridge (Tasmania)|Cambridge]], and '''[https://larkdistillery.com/ Lark]''' in [[Hobart]], both of which have won prestigious international awards. Tasmania also has a strong cider culture, with a number of small to medium boutique cider producers including Willie Smiths, Pagan Cider, Franks Cider and Lost Pippin. The Tasmanian cider industry operates a [https://www.tascidertrail.com/ Tasmanian Cider Trail]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for those who want to undertake a self-guided tour, and Willie Smiths celebrates an annual Mid Winter Fest, including traditional wassailing - the pagan practice of scaring the evil spirits away from the apple trees. Tasmania is also home to several craft vodka and gin distilleries. There are also a wide range of local non-alcohol beverage producers. Tasmania has several well-regarded tea companies - the Tasmanian Tea Company, Tassie-T and the Art of Tea - whose drinks can be found in local restaurants and boutique grocers. Hartz and Juicy Isle both produce local sodas and cordials, and Westerway Farms and Juicy Isle continue to produce Tasmania's famous blackcurrant cordial, once made by Cascade. The legal drinking age is ''18 years''. It is illegal either to purchase alcohol for yourself if you are under 18 years of age or to purchase alcohol on behalf of someone who is under 18 years of age. The only legally acceptable proof-of-age documentation are an Australian drivers licence, state-issued proof-of-age card, [https://auspost.com.au/id-and-document-services/apply-for-a-keypass-id Keypass card] or a passport, and it would be wise to carry one if you want to purchase alcohol or tobacco and look under 25 - vendors will frequently ask for ID for anybody who looks to be 25 or younger. In Tasmania, foreign drivers licences and foreign ID cards are ''not'' legally acceptable as proof of age documentation, and people who are unable to produce a passport or valid Australian ID will be refused service. Only actual ID documents will be accepted; photographs or photocopies will ''not'' be accepted. ==Sleep== There is a variety of accommodation options available across the state, from camping through to 5-star luxury. Tasmania is particularly renowned for its hosted bed and breakfast accommodation where you can experience a different way of life in a whole range of different properties, including heritage listed and more modern properties in stunning locations. There are four YHA (Hostelling International) branded hostels in Tasmania and a number of independent operators spread around the state. Prices range anywhere from $10-30. ==Respect== Tasmanians are generally more laid-back and friendly than their mainland counterparts. They are usually very willing to help you out or give advice when asked. You should also mind that it is never a good idea to bring up the 1996 Port Arthur Massacre (the worst mass shooting in modern Australian history), even when you are outside Port Arthur as it may be a sensitive issue to some, even if they were not present at the scene. On the contrary, Tasmanians are very laid back when talking about the island's convict history, people here are unlikely to be offended by it. ==Stay safe== ===In the bush=== Bushwalking can be a truly breathtaking experience in Tasmania, but be sure to obtain the right gear, local advice and maps. Always sign the logbook at the beginning and end of each walk. Mobile coverage is limited in wilderness areas. The main dangers of bushwalking are getting lost and/or suffering from hypothermia. Tasmania's weather is notoriously changeable. Be sure to take a good raincoat and warm clothes with you even on a sunny day because an hour or two later it could be pouring with rain. If undertaking more serious bushwalking a map and compass is a must, as is a good sleeping bag and tent for multi-day walks. Mosquitoes are present all year round. There are no mosquito-born viruses. A good repellent is advisable if going into the bush. [[File:Drysdalia coronoides.jpg|thumb|''Lowland Copperhead snake, Austrelaps superbus'']] ===Wildlife=== There are three species of snake in Tasmania: copperhead, white-lipped, and tiger. The tiger snake is one of the most venomous snakes in the world, but don't let that deter you. No one has died from a snake bite in Tasmania since 1977. All three use the same anti-venom so identification of the snake is not important. Most snakes will slither away as soon as they hear you coming. ===Water=== While in wilderness areas the water may be good to drink, but it is still highly recommended that you boil before consumption. If in touristy areas, such as The Overland Track, always boil your water or risk gastro. === Bushfires === During the Tasmanian bushfire season, which runs from roughly October to March, be vigilant and keep aware of local news. Bushfires can start and spread rapidly, even in urban areas. Many Tasmanian towns have just one exit, so it is worth planning ahead - even if a bushfire is hours away, it may be too late to leave if you wait. In times of high fire danger, it may be worth reconsidering any activities that take you too deep into the bush. Check the Bureau of Meteorology website to assess the [http://www.bom.gov.au/weather-services/fire-weather-centre/fire-weather-services/index.shtml fire rating] before going. The [https://www.fire.tas.gov.au/ Tasmanian Fire Service] provides an incidents list on its website, but this may be several hours out of date at times. ABC Local Radio (936 AM in Southern Tasmania, and a variety of frequencies in Northern Tasmania) is often the most up to date with emergency information, and can also be accessed online or on your phone. ==Go next== * [[Geelong]] and [[Melbourne]] are obvious next destinations, with the former easily reachable by ferry and the latter by plane. * [[Antarctica]] from [[Hobart]] has scheduled flights during summer months {{guideregion}} {{geo|-42.0|147.0|zoom=8}} {{isPartOf|Australia}} evsv7mokeas8b9svlup0rylijmqem5p 5091178 5091115 2025-07-11T04:21:40Z Ground Zero 1423298 License is a verb in Aus. Licence is the noun 5091178 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Tasmania banner 4.jpg|unesco=yes|dotm=yes}} :''"TAS" redirects here. For other users, see [[Tas]]. For the airport, see [[Tashkent#By plane]].'' '''Tasmania''' (palawa kani: ''lutruwita'') is the island state of [[Australia|Australia]], southeast of the mainland. Tasmania encompasses the main island of Tasmania, the 26th largest island in the world, and over 1000 smaller islands, both inhabited and uninhabited. It is the smallest state in Australia by both area and by population, with just over 500,000 permanent residents. Over 45% of Tasmania is protected by [[Tasmanian national parks|national parks]] and world heritage sites, and it features diverse climates, flora and fauna, many of which are found nowhere else in Australia, and a rich heritage, both Indigenous and post-colonial. You'll find the inhabitants notably more polite, friendly and helpful than in big cities on the mainland such as [[Melbourne]], [[Sydney]] and [[Brisbane]]. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Tasmania map.png | regionmaptext=Tasmania regions | regionmapsize=450px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | regionmapLat=-40.678 | regionmapLong=146.536 | regionmapZoom=6 | region1name=[[Southern Tasmania]] | region1color=#c5995c | region1items= | region1description=The most populous region of Tasmania, which includes Tasmania's capital and Australia's second oldest city, Hobart, which sits at the foot of kunanyi / Mount Wellington. | region2name=[[Eastern Tasmania]] | region2color=#cfcf94 | region2items= | region2description=This area encompasses the only other major city in Tasmania, Launceston and the Tamar Valley, the mountainous region of Ben Lomond, the Midlands, and the North East along with the stunning beaches including the Bay Of Fires and Wine Glass Bay, voted some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. | region5name=[[Western Tasmania|Central, Western and North Western Tasmania]] (Northwest Coast) | region5color=#acc2a6 | region5items= | region5description=A historic mining centre in Tasmania with extensive Victorian architecture, many small coastal townships, and scenic inland areas including the takayna / Tarkine with its Gondwanan rainforest. | region6name=[[Bass Strait Islands]] | region6color=#bcb491 | region6items=[[King Island]], [[Flinders Island]], [[Kent Group National Park|Kent Group]] | region6description=The secluded but very scenic island groups in the Bass Strait between mainland Tasmania and Victoria. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#bcb491|title=[[King Island]]|wikidata=Q794502|stroke-opacity=0.1}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#bcb491|title=[[Flinders Island]]|wikidata=Q938581|stroke-opacity=0.1}} {{mapshape |type=geoshape |fill=#acc2a6 |title=[[Western Tasmania]] |wikidata=Q7984754,Q2092649,Q648240,Q1848324,Q764011,Q1016792,Q1053740,Q927683,Q1575755,Q1848537,Q1739063,Q1665325 |stroke-opacity=0 }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c5995c|title=[[Southern Tasmania]] |wikidata=Q605668,Q1742110,Q1621560,Q1200416,Q740644,Q1095386,Q1435919,Q1848526,Q1848510 |stroke-opacity=0}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#cfcf94|title=[[Eastern Tasmania]] |wikidata=Q937765,Q1508377,Q964717,Q903612,Q386645,Q964717,Q1529157,Q1848356 |stroke-opacity=0}} ===Other=== * '''[[Macquarie Island]]''' is a [[Subantarctic islands|Subantarctic island]] around {{km|1500}} south-southeast of Tasmania. While it's administered as part of the Huon Valley, it's geologically, physically, and ecologically closer to many other Subantarctic islands, particularly the [[New Zealand Subantarctic Islands]]. ==Cities and townships== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Hobart]]|url=|lat=-42.880556|long=147.325|wikidata=Q40191}} – the state capital and largest city located in the south of the island *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bicheno]]|url=|lat=-41.866667|long=148.283333|wikidata=Q2335428}} – beach town on the east coast *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Burnie]]|url=|lat=-41.063611|long=145.875278|wikidata=Q175262}} – the fourth largest city in Tasmania *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Devonport]]|url=|lat=-41.180556|long=146.346389|wikidata=Q705705}} – home to the Spirit of Tasmania ferry, third largest city *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Huonville]]|url=|lat=-43.033333|long=147.033333|wikidata=Q679881}} – gateway to southern Tasmania *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Launceston]]|url=|lat=-41.441944|long=147.145|wikidata=Q339527}} – the second largest city *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Queenstown (Tasmania)|Queenstown]]|url=|lat=-42.080556|long=145.555556|wikidata=Q1009718}} – historic mining town on the west coast *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Richmond (Tasmania)|Richmond]]|url=|lat=-42.733333|long=147.433333|wikidata=Q3407391}} – home to many old buildings dating back to the 19th century as well as the oldest bridge in use in Australia *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Strahan]]|url=|lat=-42.15|long=145.316667|wikidata=Q574085}} – one of the most isolated (and beautiful) parts of Australia and the largest centre in western Tasmania. ==Other destinations== [[Image:CradleMountain, Central Highlands, Tasmania, May 2005.jpg|thumb|250px|Cradle Mountain in Tasmania, a World Heritage site]] [[File:20100209 Wineglass Bay and The Hazards from Mt Amos peak.JPG|250px|thumb|Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park]] Tasmania has some of the most beautiful and diverse scenery not just in Australia but also the world. Over 45 percent of Tasmania is protected in national parks so you can't make a visit here without checking at least a couple of national parks out. The [[UNESCO World Heritage site]] '''[[Tasmanian Wilderness]]''' covers about a quarter of Tasmania. There's a park for every season and for every person. Discover spectacular landscapes from highlands carved by glaciers, including the only [[fjords]] in Australia, to quiet solitary beaches, from cool and silent rainforests, to colourful alpine wilderness wild flowers. [[Tasmanian national parks|Tasmania's 19 national parks]] encompass a diversity of unspoiled habitats and ecosystems which offer refuge to unique, and often ancient, plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Ben Lomond National Park]]|url=|lat=-41.566667|long=147.666667|wikidata=Q816402}} – mountain with a ski resort. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Bruny Island]]|url=|lat=-43.366667|long=147.283333|wikidata=Q25605}} – perhaps Tasmania's most visited offshore island *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park]]|url=|lat=-41.830278|long=145.924167|wikidata=Q1138453}} – one of Tasmania's most iconic landmarks and contains the [[Overland Track]], part of the Tasmanian Wilderness {{unesco}}. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park]]|url=|lat=-42.409444|long=146.031944|wikidata=Q1445146}} – part of the Tasmanian Wilderness {{unesco}}, home to several waterfalls. It is Tasmania's second largest national park. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Freycinet National Park]]|url=|lat=-42.125278|long=148.298333|wikidata=Q930677}} – known for its beaches and bay. *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Hartz Mountains National Park]]|wikidata=Q827519}} – another {{unesco}} mountainous national park, just one hour away from Hobart *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Mount Field National Park]]|wikidata=Q1905973}} – one of the more visited national parks in Tasmania, and a popular skiing area *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Port Arthur (Tasmania)|Port Arthur]]|url=|lat=-43.15|long=147.85|wikidata=Q999109}} – former convict settlement and a {{unesco}} *{{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Southwest National Park]]|url=|lat=-42.833611|long=146.149444|wikidata=Q967541}} – Tasmania's largest national park in the southwest of the island, part of the Tasmanian Wilderness {{unesco}}. It is a good place to spot the Southern Lights. ==Understand== ===History=== Tasmania has been inhabited by humans for approximately 60,000 years. Between around 6,000 BCE, sea levels rose and Aboriginal Tasmanians were entirely isolated from the rest of the human race, until the first contact with Europeans in 1777. The first reported sighting of Tasmania by a European was on 24 November 1642 by the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman. Captain James Cook landed at Adventure Bay in 1777. Matthew Flinders and George Bass first proved Tasmania to be an island in 1798–99. The first European settling of Tasmania was by the British at Risdon Cove on the eastern bank of the Derwent estuary in 1804. Penal settlements were established at Sullivans Cove (Hobart), Maria Island, Sarah Island, and [[Port Arthur (Tasmania)|Port Arthur]]. The colony changed its name from "Van Diemen's Land" to "Tasmania" in 1856. The Colony of Tasmania existed from 1856 until 1901, when it federated with the five other Australian colonies to form the Commonwealth of Australia. ===Geography=== [[File:Tasdevil large.jpg|thumbnail|Tasmanian devil]] {{infobox|Tasmanian devils|This carnivorous marsupial is the size of a small dog and found only in Tasmania. The largest carnivorous marsupial in the world, it is characterised by its stocky and muscular build, black fur, extremely loud and disturbing screech, and ferocity when feeding. Despite its appearance, the devil is capable of surprising speed and endurance and can climb trees and swim across rivers. Since the 1990s, a deadly disease, devil facial tumour disease, has drastically reduced the devil population and now threatens the survival of the species, which in 2008 was declared to be endangered. The disease is a transmissible cancer, which means that it is contagious and passed between animals when fighting, causing individual devils to die within months being infected. Programs are being undertaken to reduce the impact of the disease, including an initiative to build up isolated colonies of healthy devils in captivity. As of 2008 there were an estimated 10,000–15,000 remaining in the wild, but the decline is so rapid that they are predicted to become extinct before the year 2035. There are people that wish to take a more genetically resistant strain from the North West of Tasmania and introduce them to areas of mainland Australia where there are no dingoes in order to reduce feral cats and foxes and allow a better chance of survival for Australian native animals.}} Located in the Southern Ocean separated from mainland Australia by the Bass Strait and from [[New Zealand]] by the Tasman Sea, Tasmania is Australia's smallest state, with an area of 68,400 km² (26,410 square miles). It is comparable in size to the Canadian province of [[New Brunswick]] or the country of [[Ireland]]. It's within the range of the notorious "Roaring Forties" winds that encircle the globe. Tasmania's population is focused in the southeast and north in the regions around the cities of Hobart, Launceston, Burnie and Devonport. The Midlands (the area between Hobart and Launceston) is the driest region of Tasmania and is primarily used for cattle and sheep grazing. The Huon Valley and the area between Launceston and Burnie is used for both agriculture and horticulture. The Central Highlands, the West Coast and the Southwest Wilderness are all mountainous forested areas, a majority of which are protected inside national parks. Tasmania is very mountainous: while its tallest mountain, Mount Ossa, at 1,617 m (5,305&nbsp;ft) is not that high compared to global standards, the mountains are what characterise Tasmania. Much of Tasmania is densely forested, with [[Southwest National Park]] and neighbouring areas home to some of the last pristine temperate rainforests in the Southern Hemisphere. ===Politics=== Tasmania is one of the six founding members of the Commonwealth of Australia. It is separated into 29 smaller local government areas. Like all other states except for Queensland, Tasmania has a bicameral parliament; the Parliament of Tasmania consists of the Legislative Council (upper house) and the House of Assembly (lower house). In state elections, there are 5 electorates, each consisting of 7 members each (as of March 2024). There are four influential political parties in Tasmania. The Tasmanian Liberal Party is the state's centre-right party and is a division of the Liberal Party at the federal division. Tasmanian Labor is a centrist/centre-left party and a branch of the Australian Labor Party, of which it shares many similar values. The Tasmanian Greens, a branch of the Australian Greens, is a minor party, is a left-wing environmentalist party and is considered to be the successor of the United Tasmania Party, the world's first Green party; this was the first time that an environmentalist party had some success in politics. The Jacqui Lambie Network (JLN) is another minor but populist/right-wing party with a strong regional focus on Tasmania and Tasmanians. ===Climate=== [[File:Hellyer Gorge, Tasmania.jpg|250px|thumb|Hellyer Gorge Reserve]] Tasmania typically has more rainy days than anywhere else in Australia, with "four seasons in a day" being often the norm. The southwest and West Coast in particular receive a great amount of rainfall - so much of it that it is considered uninhabitable. Both cold waves from [[Antarctica]] and heatwaves from the mainland can reach the island anytime. The sea temperature is rather low throughout the year, even in the north. Tasmania has a cool temperate climate, comparable with that of northern Europe and/or [[Vancouver]] in British Columbia, Canada, with the following seasons: * '''Spring''' from September to November, with frequent snowfalls at higher elevations. * '''Summer''' from December to February. It has about 15 hours of daylight from 5:30AM to 8:30–9:30PM. * '''Autumn''' from March to May. Changeable weather. * '''Winter''' from June to August. High areas receive a good amount of snowfall. It has the least daylight with about 9 hours a day from 8AM to 4:30PM, but sometimes even earlier, especially in the Huon and Far South. ===Economy=== [[File:The Bridestowe Estate, Tasmania.jpg|250px|thumb|Lavender Farm, Tasmania]] Tasmania's main industries are [[mining]] (including copper, zinc, tin, and iron), forestry, agriculture, fresh produce ([[fruit and vegetables|fruit & vegetables]], dairy, [[seafood]], [[beer]] and [[wine]]), and tourism. The economy is affected by the Bass Strait, and how the freight and transport issues of goods into and out of the island are costed and subsidised, at times there are more Tasmanian-born people in Melbourne, than there are in Tasmania, due to the nature of the Tasmanian [[work|job market]]. ===Holidays=== '''National public holidays''' can be found in the [[Australia#Holidays|main Australia article]]. '''Statewide public holidays''' * 8-Hour Day (Labor Day): Second Monday of March (Eight Hours Day) * Recreation Day: First Monday in November (Except areas that observe Royal Hobart Regatta) '''Regional public holidays''' These apply to smaller areas of Tasmania: * Wednesday not earlier than fifth and not later than eleventh day of January: Devonport Cup (Devonport only) * Last Wednesday of February: Launceston Cup (Launceston and surrounds) * Second Monday of February: Royal Regatta Day (Southern Tasmania only) * First Tuesday of March: King Island Show (King Island only) * The Friday nearest the last day of November: AGFEST (Circular Head only) * The Friday before the first Saturday of October: Burnie Show (Burnie, Waratah-Wynyard and West Coast) * Thursday before the second Saturday of October: Royal Launceston Show (Launceston and surrounds) * The Friday before the third Saturday of October: Flinders Island Show (Flinders Island only) * The Friday before the third Saturday of October: Royal Hobart Show (Southern Tasmania only) * The Friday nearest the last day of November: Devonport Show (Devonport, Kentish and Latrobe only) ===Time zone=== Tasmania follows the same time zone as New South Wales, Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory: '''Australian Eastern Standard Time''' (UTC+10). Like the two southeastern states, Tasmania also observes daylight savings and follows the '''Australian Eastern Daylight Saving Time''' (UTC+11) between the first Sunday of October and April. ===Tourist information === * [http://www.discovertasmania.com Discover Tasmania] website ==Get in== {{infobox|Tasmania's land border|Although an island state, a little known fact is that Tasmania has a land border with the mainland state of Victoria, across a tiny uninhabited island known as Boundary Islet, which is the result of a surveying error in 1801. At just 85 m it is the shortest interstate land border in Australia.}} ===By plane=== [[File:Welcome to Hobart Airport.jpg|thumb|250px|The not-so-large Hobart International Airport]] There are no international scheduled flights to Tasmania, except seasonal flights from [[New Zealand]]. All other flights must come through mainland cities. There are seasonal flights over [[Antarctica]]. * Flights to [[Hobart]] from [[Melbourne]], [[Sydney]], [[Brisbane]], and the [[Gold Coast]] as well as [[Auckland]]. * Flights to [[Launceston]] from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. * Flights to [[Burnie]] and [[Devonport]] from Melbourne. * Flights to [[King Island]] and [[Flinders Island]] from Melbourne. See the local guides for more information. ===By ferry=== There is only one ferry route, which are the two [http://www.spiritoftasmania.com.au/ '''Spirit of Tasmania Ferries'''] from the Spirit of Tasmania terminal in [[Geelong]] and arrive at Devonport. See the [[Devonport#Get in|Devonport]] article for the details of the ferry. It takes a full night (or the full day during peak summer periods) for the crossing and takes vehicles, bikes, foot passengers and pets. The crossing can be a little choppy at times, but provides beautiful sunsets and costs around $200–300 each way (excluding the cost bringing a vehicle). You have the option of booking one of a range of a cabins or a reclining chair for the journey. Crossings can also be part of cruise ship itineraries. Rental car companies usually do not allow you to take their vehicles onto the ferry to Tasmania. If you have rented a car on the mainland and need one in Tasmania, it's best to drop the car off in Geelong, Victoria; rental cars are available at the Devonport terminal, but make sure you reserve your car in advance. The consequences of not having a car available when you arrive are that you don't get around at all. ==Get around== ===By car=== [[File:Clearance enforced - panoramio.jpg|thumb|A low-clearance bridge in the Central Highlands]] [[File:Señal peligro-canguros de noche.JPG|thumb|Watch out for wildlife]] Tasmania is perhaps Australia's most car-centric state: driving is not just the most convenient way to get around, but it is also the most practical. Cars can be brought into Tasmania from [[Geelong]] on the Spirit of Tasmania ferry, or hired upon arrival through the major operators typically found on the mainland. Car rentals typically do not permit taking the car on the ferry crossing. Car rentals also generally prohibit driving on unsealed roads, which are very common in Tasmania. Tasmania's speed limits are more liberal than the three states on the mainland's East Coast. By default, the maximum urban limit is 50 km/h, 80 km/h on gravel roads and 100 km/h on rural roads. However, on most rural roads, the government has practically adopted a "drive to conditions approach" by setting a 100 km/h limit on even the windiest of roads with few to no slow or overtaking lanes. In practice, if you're new to the area, you may struggle to even travel 80 km/h on these roads, but the limit is for those who are experienced with such road conditions. Remember, if you are not comfortable driving 100 km/h on "100 km/h changing road conditions" roads, ''you do not have to drive 100 km/h''. You may also encounter 110 km/h limits on the Midland, Bass and Tasman Highways. Tasmania has four main road classifications: National Highway, A-routes, B-routes, and C-routes. The only national highway is Tasmanian National Highway 1 comprising of the Brooker, Midland and Bass Highways between Hobart and Burnie. A-routes (numbered between 2 and 10) connect major regional centres, B-routes (numbered between 10 and 85, in addition to 110) connect minor towns to major regional centres or highways, while C-routes (numbered between 101 and 854) are smaller roads that typically connect B-routes to an even smaller destination. A route number does not necessarily reflect the road quality: until 2019, the A5 (Lake Highway) through the [[Highland Lakes]] was unsealed, and other A-routes such as the A3 are more windier than many B-routes in the north. Many major roads, even A-routes, wind their way through mountain passes and along coastlines, narrow and with few overtaking lanes, and some sections of remote roads may be in need of repair. Direct roads on the maps may take longer than you think. Take care on some of the winding or secondary roads, since some ute drivers and locals may try to overtake on dangerous stretches of road or tailgate you if you aren't travelling fast enough. Some local drivers, especially in suburban and semi-open areas (e.g. Bass Highway), will also tailgate and attempt dangerous manoeuvres to pass or overtake you, especially if they see you are driving a hire car. Be especially careful driving between dusk and dawn as this is when the wildlife is most active: keep on the lookout for wallabies, devils, possums and others. Tasmania has the unfortunate distinction of being the '''roadkill capital of the world'''. Wallabies and wombats can make a mess of your vehicle if hit. The Tasmanian government generally advises you drive 65 km/h between dusk and dawn and 45 km/h in some places like the Tasman Peninsula (Tasman Island). Exploring the forests can often lead to a maze of forest roads. A GPS can come in handy for finding your way out, although they are not always up to date. ====Driving with an overseas or interstate licence==== Similar licence conditions apply in Tasmania as with the rest of Australia if you're driving with an overseas licence (except NZ), provided your licence is in English (if it is not in English, you will need an IDP or a translation – see [https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/licensing/interstate_or_overseas_licences/driving_in_tasmania_on_an_interstate_or_overseas_licence Transport Tasmania]). Interstate and New Zealand licence holders may drive in Tasmania for six months. Overseas learner and provisional drivers may also drive in Tasmania; however, they must follow [https://www.platesplus.tas.gov.au/novice_learner_restrictions_and_credit_hours Tasmanian learner] or [https://www.platesplus.tas.gov.au/getting_your_p1s/p1_restrictions P1 (red P)] licence conditions. For learners, this includes always being supervised, ''never exceeding 90 km/h'' even when the speed limit is 100 or 110 km/h and yellow L plates visible from both the front and the back of the car. Overseas provisional drivers must ''never exceed 100 km/h'', even when the speed limit is 110 km/h and display red P plates visible from both the front and back of the car. Both overseas learner and provisional drivers must not use a mobile phone, even via Bluetooth (no Apple Carplay or Android Auto) and maintain a blood alcohol content of 0.00. This doesn't apply to interstate learner and provisional licence holders – who follow the restrictions of your state. ===By bus=== Buses can be an option if time is on your side, but otherwise aren't a feasible way of getting around. Planning is advised since services can be infrequent. [https://www.wearekinetic.com/ Kinetic Tasmania] and [https://www.tassielink.com.au/ Tassielink] are the main long distance bus companies, with population centres serviced by [http://www.metrotas.com.au/ Metro Tasmania] for Burnie, Hobart and Launceston and [https://www.wearekinetic.com/au/devonport-north-west Kinetic, formerly Merseylink] that provide services to Devonport and Latrobe. If you are not in a major town (e.g. Hobart, Launceston and Burnie), bus services can be infrequent, expensive and hard to rely on. Make sure you have a copy of the timetable with you. [https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/public_transport/bus_timetables Tasmanian Government] bus timetable page. * '''[https://www.wearekinetic.com/au/launceston-north-east Kinetic Tasmania]''' destinations include: ** Derby, Scottsdale and Bridport (to and from Launceston) ** Low Head and George Town (to and from Launceston) ** Dodges Ferry and Sorell * '''[https://www.tassielink.com.au/ Tassielink]''' bus lines include: ** Coles Bay, Bicheno and Swansea (to Hobart) ** Hobart to Huon Valley (via Kingston, Ranelagh, Cygnet, Geeveston, Dover) ** Hobart to Campania (via Cambridge and Richmond) ** Dunalley, Tasman Peninsula, Eaglehawk Neck, Port Arthur, Nubeena ** Launceston to Cressy (via Evandale, Perth, Longford) ** Strahan to Burnie (via Queenstown) * '''[http://www.metrotas.com.au/ Metro Tasmania]''' connects different suburbs in Burnie, Hobart and Launceston. * '''[https://www.wearekinetic.com/au/devonport-north-west Kinetic]''' routes are: ** Route 170, 171: West & North Devonport ** Route 172, 173, 174: South Devonport & Miandetta ** Route 175: East Devonport ** Route 176: Ambleside ** Route 178: Latrobe (via Tarleton & Spreyton) ** Route 180, 182: Ulverstone to West Ulverstone & Devonport ** Route 183: Port Sorell (via Hawley & Shearwater) ** Route 184: Devonport-Sheffield via Railton ** Route 708: North West Express [https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/public_transport/bus_timetables Transport Tasmania], a government-run bus service, has infrequent buses to [https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/public_transport/bus_timetables/west_coast Queenstown], Strahan, Burnie, Coles Bay, St Helens, and other towns. ===By train=== There are no public train services. The many railways seen are used for freight only. The only passenger railways in Tasmania are heritage services that use vintage equipment. The '''[https://www.wcwr.com.au/ West Coast Wilderness Railway]''', a tourist train which runs between Strahan and Queenstown on the West Coast, is perhaps the best known, passing through some incredibly scenic areas. The trip takes about 3 hours with lunch included (very slow compared to the 30-minute car journey). ===By plane=== * '''[http://www.paravion.com.au Par Avion]''' offer scenic flights across the state and services into Melaleuca in [[Southwest National Park]]. * '''[http://www.airtasmania.com.au Airlines of Tasmania]''' offer flights between Launceston and [[Cape Barren Island]]. * '''[http://www.sharpairlines.com Sharp Airlines]''' offer flights to [[Flinders Island]] from Launceston and flights to [[King Island]] from Launceston and Burnie. ===By bicycle=== Bicycle touring is a popular way to see cities in Tasmania, but driving on rural roads can be very dangerous. Bicycle rental companies can be found in major cities and towns. ==See== ===Wildlife=== {{seealso|Australasian wildlife}} [[File:Pademelon de Tasmanie.jpg|thumbnail|Pademelon]] If you spend any time in the bush you are very likely to see: * '''Kangaroos, wallabies, and pademelons''' are everywhere throughout Tasmania. * '''Wombats''' can be found in many national parks and mostly come out at night. * '''Ringtail and brushtail possums''' only come out at night. Less common wildlife include: * '''Echidnas''' are rarely seen in the bush. They're more easily spotted when crossing roads. * '''Bandicoots and Potoroos''' are at the small end of the jumping marsupial scale. * '''Platypus''' are very elusive. If you are persistent and very quiet and still you may find one rummaging at the bottom of a creek. * '''Eastern and Spotted-tail Quolls''' very rarely seen. * '''Tasmanian devils''' are rarely seen in the wild. They can sometimes be spotted along roadsides eating roadkill at night and sometimes on the edge of rural towns. ===Landmarks=== {{see also|Tasmanian national parks}} * '''kunanyi / Mount Wellington''' is a large mountain that rises above Tasmania's capital city. Visitors can drive to the top, where a viewing lookout is located, and well maintained walking tracks are located in the foothills. A coffee van operates at the Springs, a picnic area mid way up the mountain. *'''Bay of Fires''' is one of Tasmania's most popular tourist destinations, located between Eddystone Point and Binalong Bay. Bay of Fires has beautiful blue water, red rocks, and sandy white beaches. Enter through Binalong Bay which is 10 minutes from St Helens. This area offers a wide range of activities including camping, boating, bird watching, fishing, swimming, surfing, and walking along the coastline. *'''[http://www.launcestoncataractgorge.com.au/gorgecliffgrounds.html Cataract Gorge]''' is a unique, natural formation within a two-minute drive from central Launceston known to locals as The Gorge. After walking 15 minutes from central Launceston along Tamar River into Gorge, you then follow the pathway along the cliff face looking down onto South Esk River. On the southern side, called the First Basin, there is a cafe, swimming pool, and Launceston's beach. The northern side, known as the Cliff Grounds, there is a kiosk, restaurants, swimming pool, and a chairlift across the river. The Cataract Gorge Reserve is one of Australia's most fascinating urban parks. *'''Hastings Caves''' include Newdegate Cave, the largest cave in Australia open to tourists. Tour magical chambers of flowstones and shawls, then relax in a thermal pool. Formations in the cave are spectacular and include flowstone, stalactites, columns, shawls, straws, stalagmites and the unusual helictites tendrils of calcite that grow in all directions in tiny filaments. *'''[[Mole Creek Karst National Park|Mole Creek Karst]]''' Tasmania's only national park featuring caves. Among many features are the King Solomon and Marakoopa Caves, both of which can be viewed with Tasmania Park Service guides leading you. The two caves are distinctly different and a separate entry ticket is required for each. Tour times are staggered throughout the day. Five [[world heritage]] listed convict sites are located in Tasmania, in the [[Eastern Tasmania|northeast]] and [[Southern Tasmania|south]] of the island. The best known is likely Port Arthur. [[File:PortArthurPenitentiary.jpg|250px|thumb|[[Port Arthur (Tasmania)|Port Arthur]]]] *'''[[Port Arthur (Tasmania)|Port Arthur]]''' is the best preserved convict site in Australia. Many years ago, this site played a key role in the colonial system of convict discipline. During your experience, you will have the chance to take guided tours of the Commandant's House, Parsonage, Trentham Cottage, Junior Medical Officer's quarters, historic buildings and ruins of the Penitentiary, Barracks, Guard Tower and military precinct, Hospital, Paupers' Depot and Asylum. Port Arthur is surrounded by beautiful bushland and trails available to explore the land around you. * '''[[Ross (Tasmania)|Ross]]''' is another convict town, but is not listed as a world-heritage site. It's known for its convict-built bridge and its old female factory, both of which are popular stopover destinations for those travelling on the Midland Highway between Hobart and Launceston. *'''Salamanca Place''' in Sullivans Cove, is Hobart's favourite hang out. Salamanca is lined with a long row of sandstone buildings built in the 1830s. You can wander under the heavy stone arches to find craft and design shops, jewellers, coffee shops, restaurants, bookshops, fashion boutiques, and the Salamanca Arts Centre and artists’ galleries. Every Saturday there’s the Salamanca Market, where you can buy anything from a handmade wooden toy or a hand-spun, hand-knitted sweater to fresh fruit and vegetables or a 50-year-old china plate. *'''The Nut''' is located at the historic village of [[Stanley (Tasmania)|Stanley]], in far north-west Tasmania. The Nut, a sheer-sided bluff is all that remains of an ancient volcanic plug. A walking track climbs to the summit of The Nut, or you can take the chairlift, with spectacular views across Bass Strait beaches and over the town. There is accommodation and an excellent campground in Stanley, and the town is a good base for exploring the forests and coastlines further west. ==Do== *'''Trout fishing'''. Trout Guides and Lodges Tasmania Incorporated (TGALT) is the industry body, that was voluntarily formed in 1981 as the Tasmanian Professional Trout Fishing Guides Association. Its primary purpose was to provide anglers with a source of guides that they could be assured, would provide a safe, appropriate and professional service. During 1995 the Association was expanded to specifically include trout fishing lodges as full members. *The '''[http://www.bv.com.au/Content/NavigationMenu/Events/Great_Tasmanian_Bike_Ride/Default402.htm Great Tasmanian Bike Ride]''' - held in early February. *'''Bicycle touring and mountain biking''' - there are some great places to ride your bicycle in Tasmania. *'''Scuba diving''' - Tasmania is home to some of the best temperate diving in the world. Along with its giant kelp forests and numerous shipwrecks, the waters reefs also offer an array of unique marine plants and animals. There are many dive sites along the coast, the most popular sites are at [[Bicheno]], [[Bay of Fires]], [[Flinders Island]], [[Fortescue Bay]], [[Tasman Peninsula]] and [[Maria Island]]. *'''Off road touring''' - Tasmania is a very rugged and heavily forested region, tourists happen to miss out on some incredible places if they do not have a vehicle with four-wheel-drive. Visitors can explore these trails with an experienced operator or either form or tag along with a group. Before exploring, make sure you have a current map of the area. In 2003, Tasmania changed the co-ordinate system used for all maps from AGD 66 to GDA 94. Also, ask the local land manager for the latest information on the condition of the area you plan to use and permits. *'''Wildlife watching'''. Because of its separation from mainland Australia, Tasmania is home to animals and plants that are rare or even extinct in other areas around the world. If visitors are watchful, they are very likely to witness these species on trails or near streams. Tourists can also be by a tour guide to point out these animals so you won't miss them! Some of these rare mammals include the Tasmanian Devil, Platypus, Echidna, Sugar Glider, Eastern Quoll, and Forester Kangaroo. *'''Hang gliding and the Flying Fox'''. [http://treetopsadventure.com.au/ Hollybank Treetops Adventure] takes visitors across treetops and gives them the experience of seeing Tasmania's forests in a whole new way - bird's-eye view! These canopy tours last for 3 hours and are led by highly trained professionals. Not only do guests take part in this unique adventure by soaring across about a kilometre of cable but they also learn about the forests below them. *'''Kayaking'''. After landing in Hobart's Airport, you are a mere 20-minute drive away from beginning your kayaking experience. Visitors can explore Tasmania's beautiful coastlines and search out secret coves by kayaking. There are professional kayak guides based in Hobart, Kettering, Port Arthur, Coles Bay, Launceston, and Strahan. Kayak travel through Tasmania's beautiful landscape offers relaxation and exhilaration that tourists will not want to miss out on. * Adventure activities including abseiling, all-terrain vehicles, bicycle touring, caves and caving, diving, jet boats, kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing, sky diving, swimming, surfing and whitewater rafting. ===Hiking=== {{see also|Hiking and bushwalking in Australia#Tasmania|Tasmanian national parks#Hiking}} No trip to Tasmania is complete without hiking. While many of the state's important natural attractions have since been linked by road, many photogenic locations still require you to hike or walk the very least, even if it's just for a few hundred metres (which wouldn't be considered hiking by most Australian standards). Contrary to the mainland, the vegetation seen on hikes is starkly different – and the temperate forests here tend to be more well-preserved. Conservation laws in Tasmania are stronger, so you may not find anything more than a boardwalk in some remote trails. If long-distance hiking isn't your gist, the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service has created the ''[https://parks.tas.gov.au/things-to-do/60-great-short-walks 60 Great Short Walks]''. See [[Hiking and bushwalking in Australia#Tasmania|Hiking and bushwalking in Australia &sect; Tasmania]] for more about trails, and [[Tasmanian national parks#Hiking|Tasmanian national parks &sect; Hiking]] about the grading system. On some trails, you ''must'' register before you hike. In many cases, this can as simple as writing your name and phone number on a book inside a mountain hut, but the entire purpose of this is for the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service to ensure that you come home safely. Weather can rapidly change and it's easy to become stranded in the Tasmanian Wilderness. It is better to be safe than sorry. Popular trails and/or trails that Wikivoyage has an article on: *'''[[Overland Track]]''': the iconic bushwalk from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair. Bookings are essential during the main walking season (November to April). *'''[http://www.southcoasttrack.com.au South Coast Track]''': the bushwalk along the south coast of Tasmania, from Melaleuca, to Cockle Creek. Fly in by aircraft and take a 6-day walk back home. *'''[[Three Falls Circuit]]''': a 7.5-km hike covering three impressive waterfalls in [[Mount Field National Park]] ==Buy== One of Tasmania's most famous products is '''leatherwood honey''', and there are numerous honey farms on the island in which you can purchase this. Like elsewhere in Australia, tipping can be considered very unusual, however, most of the time, it's well appreciated. Most Tasmanian's wages are well below the mainland so don't be surprised if the people here are a lot more grateful. On the other hand, unlike in the US, you probably won't be frowned upon at if you don't - because tipping in Australia is quite unusual. Tasmanian businesses no longer give out free plastic bags. Most local government areas also ban single use plastics for takeaway food. ==Eat== {{see also|Australian cuisine}} Tasmania has a wide variety of culinary offerings. Tasmania produces a wide range of cuisines, both quintessentially Australian foods, and a wide range of international offerings. Tasmania has a diverse immigrant community which has contributed to a colourful range of cuisines. Tasmanian produces much of its own food, including many crops you wouldn't expect, such as saffron, tea, truffles and wasabi. Many regions of Tasmania have particular specialties, for example King Island produces gourmet cheeses and beef and the Huon Valley is most famous for apples. Being surrounded by the sea, it is no surprise that Tasmania also has a strong seafood culture, with many dedicated seafood restaurants offering salmon, abalone, scallops, oysters, mussels and crayfish. Curried scallop pies are a particularly well known Tasmanian specialty. There is a [http://www.happycow.net/australia/tasmania/ list of vegetarian and vegetarian friendly eateries in Tasmania]. ==Drink== [[File:Cascade Brewery Hobart.jpg|thumb|Cascade Brewery, Hobart]] Tasmania has many exceptional world class beers, whiskies & wines. There are two major breweries in Tasmania; Cascade Brewery in Hobart and J. Boag & Sons Brewery in Launceston, which each offer tours. A number of boutique beer makers and distillers are spread around the state. You can tour the Tasmanian Wine Routes easily by car or on guided tours. The island's Wine Routes include the Tamar Valley, north of Launceston along both sides of the Tamar River and east to Pipers River; the Derwent, Coal River and Huon Valleys (together comprising the Southern Wine Route), an easy drive from Hobart; and the growing wine regions of the North West and the East Coast. Tasmania is the centre of Australia's craft [[whisky]] industry, and there are numerous distilleries throughout the state. Due to the similarity of Tasmania's climate to that of [[Scotland]], Tasmanian whiskies are primarily based on Scotch whiskies. Unlike in other areas, there is no large-scale commercial whisky distillation in Australia, and the industry is dominated by small boutique distilleries. Two of Tasmania's most important distilleries are '''[https://sullivanscove.com/ Sullivans Cove]''' in [[Cambridge (Tasmania)|Cambridge]], and '''[https://larkdistillery.com/ Lark]''' in [[Hobart]], both of which have won prestigious international awards. Tasmania also has a strong cider culture, with a number of small to medium boutique cider producers including Willie Smiths, Pagan Cider, Franks Cider and Lost Pippin. The Tasmanian cider industry operates a [https://www.tascidertrail.com/ Tasmanian Cider Trail]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for those who want to undertake a self-guided tour, and Willie Smiths celebrates an annual Mid Winter Fest, including traditional wassailing - the pagan practice of scaring the evil spirits away from the apple trees. Tasmania is also home to several craft vodka and gin distilleries. There are also a wide range of local non-alcohol beverage producers. Tasmania has several well-regarded tea companies - the Tasmanian Tea Company, Tassie-T and the Art of Tea - whose drinks can be found in local restaurants and boutique grocers. Hartz and Juicy Isle both produce local sodas and cordials, and Westerway Farms and Juicy Isle continue to produce Tasmania's famous blackcurrant cordial, once made by Cascade. The legal drinking age is ''18 years''. It is illegal either to purchase alcohol for yourself if you are under 18 years of age or to purchase alcohol on behalf of someone who is under 18 years of age. The only legally acceptable proof-of-age documentation are an Australian drivers licence, state-issued proof-of-age card, [https://auspost.com.au/id-and-document-services/apply-for-a-keypass-id Keypass card] or a passport, and it would be wise to carry one if you want to purchase alcohol or tobacco and look under 25 - vendors will frequently ask for ID for anybody who looks to be 25 or younger. In Tasmania, foreign drivers licences and foreign ID cards are ''not'' legally acceptable as proof of age documentation, and people who are unable to produce a passport or valid Australian ID will be refused service. Only actual ID documents will be accepted; photographs or photocopies will ''not'' be accepted. ==Sleep== There is a variety of accommodation options available across the state, from camping through to 5-star luxury. Tasmania is particularly renowned for its hosted bed and breakfast accommodation where you can experience a different way of life in a whole range of different properties, including heritage listed and more modern properties in stunning locations. There are four YHA (Hostelling International) branded hostels in Tasmania and a number of independent operators spread around the state. Prices range anywhere from $10-30. ==Respect== Tasmanians are generally more laid-back and friendly than their mainland counterparts. They are usually very willing to help you out or give advice when asked. You should also mind that it is never a good idea to bring up the 1996 Port Arthur Massacre (the worst mass shooting in modern Australian history), even when you are outside Port Arthur as it may be a sensitive issue to some, even if they were not present at the scene. On the contrary, Tasmanians are very laid back when talking about the island's convict history, people here are unlikely to be offended by it. ==Stay safe== ===In the bush=== Bushwalking can be a truly breathtaking experience in Tasmania, but be sure to obtain the right gear, local advice and maps. Always sign the logbook at the beginning and end of each walk. Mobile coverage is limited in wilderness areas. The main dangers of bushwalking are getting lost and/or suffering from hypothermia. Tasmania's weather is notoriously changeable. Be sure to take a good raincoat and warm clothes with you even on a sunny day because an hour or two later it could be pouring with rain. If undertaking more serious bushwalking a map and compass is a must, as is a good sleeping bag and tent for multi-day walks. Mosquitoes are present all year round. There are no mosquito-born viruses. A good repellent is advisable if going into the bush. [[File:Drysdalia coronoides.jpg|thumb|''Lowland Copperhead snake, Austrelaps superbus'']] ===Wildlife=== There are three species of snake in Tasmania: copperhead, white-lipped, and tiger. The tiger snake is one of the most venomous snakes in the world, but don't let that deter you. No one has died from a snake bite in Tasmania since 1977. All three use the same anti-venom so identification of the snake is not important. Most snakes will slither away as soon as they hear you coming. ===Water=== While in wilderness areas the water may be good to drink, but it is still highly recommended that you boil before consumption. If in touristy areas, such as The Overland Track, always boil your water or risk gastro. === Bushfires === During the Tasmanian bushfire season, which runs from roughly October to March, be vigilant and keep aware of local news. Bushfires can start and spread rapidly, even in urban areas. Many Tasmanian towns have just one exit, so it is worth planning ahead - even if a bushfire is hours away, it may be too late to leave if you wait. In times of high fire danger, it may be worth reconsidering any activities that take you too deep into the bush. Check the Bureau of Meteorology website to assess the [http://www.bom.gov.au/weather-services/fire-weather-centre/fire-weather-services/index.shtml fire rating] before going. The [https://www.fire.tas.gov.au/ Tasmanian Fire Service] provides an incidents list on its website, but this may be several hours out of date at times. ABC Local Radio (936 AM in Southern Tasmania, and a variety of frequencies in Northern Tasmania) is often the most up to date with emergency information, and can also be accessed online or on your phone. ==Go next== * [[Geelong]] and [[Melbourne]] are obvious next destinations, with the former easily reachable by ferry and the latter by plane. * [[Antarctica]] from [[Hobart]] has scheduled flights during summer months {{guideregion}} {{geo|-42.0|147.0|zoom=8}} {{isPartOf|Australia}} aeu00c5rhwg0vw9w5zsnusmtkgda1sy 0 36079 5091121 5059102 2025-07-11T01:15:52Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Worker payment and tipping */ typo 5091121 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Basket of money 001.jpg}} '''Tipping''' varies extensively among cultures. Though by definition a tip is never legally required, and its amount is at the discretion of the patron, for travellers it can cause some serious dilemmas. Wikivoyage tries to cover the subject in the country articles. ==Understand== [[File:Jar for tips at a restaurant in New Jersey.JPG|thumb|A typical tip jar in a restaurant. Tip jars are often either unlabeled or are marked with a message of thanks.]] === Attitudes towards tipping === In some circumstances, failing to give an adequate tip when one is expected to is a serious ''faux pas'', and may be considered very miserly, a violation of etiquette, or unethical. On the other hand, in some other cultures or situations, giving a tip is not expected and offering one would be considered at best '''odd''' and at worst '''condescending or demeaning'''. In some cultures it might be seen as a '''bribe''', and in some circumstances (for example tipping government workers), tipping can even be '''illegal''' and prosecutable as a serious crime. In countries where tipping is not customary, attitudes towards the practice can differ and become complicated. For instance, in [[Hong Kong]] or [[Australia]], while tipping is generally not practiced by the locals and not expected, it is still welcome by service staff should you decide to do so. On the other hand, in [[Japan]] and [[South Korea]], tipping is seen as an insult, and attempts to do so could offend your server. Additionally, in many places ([[Russia]] is one), foreigners who are perceived to be from countries where tipping is widespread (such as the U.S. or [[Canada]]) may be expected to tip even if locals aren't, and they may even encounter hostility if they fail to do so. In many Asian countries, hotels and restaurants may include a 10% "service charge" before tax in the bill that one is generally required to pay, but otherwise tipping is neither customary nor expected. In countries where tipping is expected, complicated unofficial standards and customs have developed over the exact percentage to tip, and what should and should not be included in this calculation. In other countries and cultures the topic is way more relaxed. It is not easy for the traveler to know what to expect when they go to a foreign country in terms of tipping—sometimes the rules are so arcane even locals have a hard time keeping it all straight. While in some cases you as a visitor from a foreign country might be given a certain limited degree of leeway, no one—especially in countries where the law allows employers to pay tip-earning workers lower wages—has complete ''carte blanche'' to ignore the rules. It therefore behooves overseas tourists to learn at least the basics of tipping custom in the country they are visiting. (Conversely, if you're a foreigner in a tip-expectant country, you can even work the system to your advantage: locals might assume foreigners will tip less than they should, and if you surprise them by tipping appropriately you may get even ''better'' service than a local would get by giving the same amount!) === Worker payment and tipping === In most countries, service personnel get paid enough to live on and thus do not have to rely on tips. While intentions are clearly good, tourists from some places ([[North America]] especially) are sometimes not aware of this—or they may simply feel bad not tipping—and they export their generous behavior to other countries where tipping is traditionally not customary. Of course, this is quickly accepted (how would ''you'' react if someone gave you extra money?) and creates expectations that did not exist before. In some places, this may also lead to the phenomenon of [[United States of America|American]] tourists getting shoddier service than locals, because it's assumed they'll leave a tip regardless. If you are tipping in a foreign country, it's best to think in terms of what the amount means for the recipient, rather than how much (or how little) it is for you. In some countries, people occasionally get tipped a month's salary in one go. While this definitely is cool for them, it can cause serious trouble. Think about a waiter earning more than the chief of police... Another problem is that, even if tipping was originally intended to improve service, some employers use it to underpay workers with the expectation that tips will make up the difference. A prototypical example is the American restaurant industry, where the "service wage" can amount to as little as one-quarter of the minimum wage in other sectors of the economy, as well as places like [[Namibia]] where it's common practice even at government-owned facilities. There is no guarantee the recipient even gets to keep the money; some employers may split tip revenue between large groups of workers (as a pretext to pay a lower wage to all of them) or, where legal safeguards are weak, even pocket a significant percentage for themselves. In Canada and the United States, the restaurant industry has a distorted tipping distribution arrangement in which servers get the majority of all of the tips and the remainder of workers such as the cooking staff get a flat rate, resulting in low compensation for cooking staff, while servers in higher end restaurants often make far more in earnings than anyone else at restaurant. Use of tipping as a de-facto ''commission on sales'' in restaurants, with a corresponding reduction in workers' base pay, has unpredictable impacts on how much servers get paid. On a slow night, servers make little or may even be sent home early. Conversely, tipped servers in an overpriced establishment in a busy location stand to profit more with a palm outstretched for gratuities than if they were simply making an honest, predictable fixed wage. These wide variances have little to do with the quality of the service offered, but serve as a means for the restaurateur to shift commercial risks (of wage costs which would otherwise be incurred even when business is slow) onto the workers. Tipping is also an end-run to avoid taxes, which may be another reason for tips spreading into previously tip-free areas. While there often are technical rules that make income from tips subject to the same taxes as other income, it is hardly if ever reported and thus tips are most often ''de facto'' tax-free (especially if given in cash). Exceptions include the United States, where the federal Internal Revenue Service assumes that all waitstaff receive tips and penalizes those who fail to report any; even so, it's very much the rule rather than the exception for U.S. restaurant workers to deliberately underestimate their cash-tip earnings and pocket the (often substantial) difference tax-free. In countries where tipping is widespread, a restaurateur who quotes an inclusive price (with the various sales taxes and a fair wage for the workers already reflected) would be placing themselves at a severe competitive disadvantage. Their rivals would appear to be cheaper by quoting a moderate initial price, then raising that price to add taxes later (at up to 15% in some jurisdictions), then soliciting tips (which can add another 15% or more). At the individual establishment level, any experiments in all-inclusive pricing will therefore be ill-fated and short-lived. === How to tip === The way to leave a tip varies across countries, trades and venues. In some venues there is a tip jar where cash can be left. If paying in cache one may often add the tip to the money offered, telling it is exact change, or return some when getting the change. Sometimes one can just leave the excess change, perhaps adding some as appropriate. In some restaurants the bill is presented in a folder, where you place the money; if you close the folder, that means that you expect no change. There may be other non-obvious customs, such as the ''[[Ryokan#Tip|kokorozuke]]''. As electronic payments are getting more common, and travellers often want to avoid changing money they might not use, tipping may become difficult. Sometimes there is an option to include a tip when specifying details for a credit card reader. Sometimes a default tip is added by the venue, which may or may not be easy to change. Sometimes you have to tell the waiter that you want to add a tip. Sometimes you give the tip in cash even when otherwise paying by card. ==Services for which tipping might be customary== * [[Food]] at restaurants, for table service or food delivered, but less so for takeaway, fast food or cafeteria fare. * [[Alcoholic beverages]] in bars * [[Hotels]]; opinions vary but this may include housekeeping, room service, porters, and shuttle drivers * [[Taxicabs]] and [[Carsharing|rideshare service]] (Uber, Lyft, etc.). It may also be appropriate to tip the person who calls or hails the taxi for you. * Some organized private transport such as shuttles or boats * [[Guided tours|Tour guides]] * [[Toilets|Toilet attendants]], although adding attendants to washrooms primarily to solicit gratuities may be controversial * [[Gambling]] * [[At the airport]], for basically anyone other than you who helps you move your luggage * [[Driving|Parking valets]] * Beauty salons and barbershops * Massages * Tattoo parlors * Grocery store baggers and those who assist you put your purchases in your car. === Religious venues === {{see also|Religion and spirituality}} There are often no entrance fees to religious venues, such as churches and temples, while their maintenance (and even the livelihood of monks etc.) may be at least partly financed by public donations. The temples or congregations may also have extensive charity programs, likewise financed through donations. It may thus be customary to leave an "offering" or other gratuity. This varies widely between cultures and there may be no hints on how to donate and what an appropriate amount would be. Check country articles and articles on specific religions – or locally. ==See also== * [[Eating]] * [[Money]] {{outlinetopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Financial issues}} k751e2sgj85rrxssag8a06mdz7cs9g5 0 36516 5091230 5090245 2025-07-11T07:15:08Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Church buildings */ Sarmaşık Mosque 5091230 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} [[File:Trabzon,AtatürkAlani.jpg|thumb|300px|Atatürk Alani, the street encircling Meydan park in downtown Trabzon]] '''Trabzon''' (formerly '''Trebizond''') is the largest city in the [[Eastern Karadeniz]] region of [[Turkey]]. Trabzon functioned as an independent state or empire during several periods in its long history, ruling over a vast area from Sinop in the west to Georgia in the east, even including territory in [[Crimea]]. Within Turkey Trabzon is known as a hospitable, energetic, traditional and patriotic city, which is culturally somewhat distinct from the rest of the country. ==Understand== ===History=== Trabzon was founded around 756 BC by [[Ancient Greece|Greek colonists]] from [[Sinop]]e, who hailed from [[Miletus]]. They called their new colony ''Trapezous'', ancient Greek for "table", due to the topography of the central hill, squeezed between two rivers with steep cliffs on both sides. While the dominant language and culture in the city remained Greek, the colony attracted many settlers from the surrounding Caucasian, Anatolian and Persian peoples, creating a unique regional cultural blend that still leaves its traces today. Trabzon has been a major trade centre through history — for long, it was a main port-of-call on one of the main routes between Europe and [[Persian Empire|Persia]] and beyond, which involved taking a ship across the Black Sea from [[Romania]] (and later [[Istanbul|Constantinople]]). After the [[Roman Empire|Roman conquest]], the city was given a new harbor and a paved road towards Persia. The road fostered trade and cultural exchange, and was used for attacks on the Persian Empire during the Roman and Byzantine periods. After a Turkmen attack on the city was repelled by a local force in the 1080s, the city broke relations with the Byzantine Empire and acted as an independent state. The [[Mongol Empire|Mongol]] sack of [[Baghdad]] diverted more trade caravans from [[Tabriz]] to Trabzon and the city grew in wealth from the taxes it could impose on trade between Europe, Persia and [[Chinese Empire|China]]. The city traded intensely with [[Genoa]] and to a lesser extent with [[Venice]] during the [[Medieval and Renaissance Italy|early renaissance]], with some cultural influences going both ways. During this era, Trabzon was visited by many travellers, [[On the trail of Marco Polo|Marco Polo]] being among them. In medieval times, the city served as the capital of the '''Empire of Trebizond''' ruled by the Komnenos family, which also provided several emperors to the Byzantine throne in Constantinople. The longest surviving rump Byzantine state, Trabzon was captured by the [[Ottoman Empire|Ottoman Turks]] in 1461, almost a decade after the fall of Constantinople. During the 18th and 19th centuries Europeans wishing to explore the [[Caucasus]], [[Iran]] and the eastern domains of the Ottoman Empire used Trabzon as a point of departure or return. [[World War I]] left deep scars in the city; it lost many of its young male Muslims at the battle of Sarıkamış in 1914, its entire Armenian population in the genocide of 1915, and most of its Greek inhabitants during the population exchange of 1923. Closed borders with the [[Soviet Union]] meant that the city could only recover culturally and economically in the 1970s. Trabzon as of 2022 is a city under reconstruction, but offers many historical, cultural and natural sights. The city constitutes the largest urban metropolitan region of [[Black Sea Turkey|Turkey's Black Sea coast]], with nearly 1 million inhabitants. Trabzon functions as the cultural capital of the Turkish Black Sea coast, and its inhabitants are very proud of their city and region. {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = 10.0 | febhigh = 10.0 | marhigh = 10.0 | aprhigh = 15 | mayhigh = 18.3 | junhigh = 22.0 | julhigh = 24.0 | aughigh = 24.0 | sephigh = 22.0 | octhigh = 19.4 | novhigh = 15.6 | dechigh = 12.0 | janlow = 3.9 | feblow = 3.0 | marlow = 5.0 | aprlow = 8.4 | maylow = 13.0 | junlow = 16.0 | jullow = 19.0 | auglow = 19.0 | seplow = 16.0 | octlow = 12.5 | novlow = 9.0 | declow = 5.0 | janprecip = 77.4 | febprecip = 63.8 | marprecip = 63.8 | aprprecip = 56.0 | mayprecip = 51.8 | junprecip = 50.0 | julprecip = 42.0 | augprecip = 48.8 | sepprecip = 76.6 | octprecip = 113.0 | novprecip = 99.1 | decprecip = 81.6 |jansnow =20.6|febsnow =18.2|marsnow =4.2|aprsnow =1.8|maysnow =0|junsnow =0|julsnow =0|augsnow =0|sepsnow =0|octsnow =0|novsnow =3.3| decsnow =5.8 | description = }} Trabzon has just returned on the tourist radar, and the city is still investing in tourist infrastructure. Like a few other Turkish cities such as [[Istanbul]] and [[Izmir]], Trabzon is culturally located somewhat in between Anatolia and Eastern Europe. In the case of Trabzon this is due to the Pontic Mountains, which used to form a cultural barrier. Coming from the Anatolian heartland, it feels like one is entering Europe, while coming from the Caucasus, Trabzon comes across as the first city with [[Middle East|Middle-Eastern]] influences. Tourists who visit Trabzon come mostly from a few countries: nearby [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]], [[Russia]], the [[Netherlands]], [[Germany]], [[Greece]], [[Azerbaijan]], [[New Zealand]] and the [[Persian Gulf|Gulf states]]. ===Climate=== Trabzon experiences a mild, humid, and very cloudy oceanic climate, like most of the Black Sea coastline. However, Trabzon's sheltered location allows it to stay warmer and drier than most of the regions that surround it, especially in winter. This causes the city to show some characteristics of a humid subtropical climate. Summers in Trabzon are warm, humid, and often mostly cloudy. Rain is frequent, but often light and brief, owing — as usual — to its sheltered location. This is generally a good time to visit, although high humidity does sometimes become a problem, especially at night. Winters are cool with long stretches of northerly winds bringing temperatures down to slightly above the freezing mark, and rainy, or less frequently, snowy weather. These periods are bridged by mild to warm, clear days, caused by dry, southerly winds descending the mountains. This can raise the temperature to above 18-19&nbsp;°C, creating almost summerlike conditions. Spring and fall are both mild, but they differ in rainfall. Fall is the rainiest time of year, as Western European windstorms, some of which restrengthen in the Black Sea after hitting Europe, are most common during this time. Spring, on the other hand, is relatively dry and often the time with the most sunshine, even though one really shouldn't expect to see sunny skies at any time of the year when traveling to this region of Turkey. ===Talk=== The Eastern Black Sea Region has its own dialect of [[Turkish phrasebook|Turkish]], more influenced by Greek and Persian than the Anatolian varieties. Because of the isolation of the coastal cities, the dialect retained archaic grammar and vocabulary that has been lost in other Turkish dialects. The most striking example is the restricted use of vowel harmony, one of the building blocks of all Turkic languages. This means that the local dialect can sound funny to speakers of 'standard' Anatolian or Istanbul Turkish. Much Turkish low-brow humor revolves around characters from Trabzon, but the locals don't appreciate the jokes that are made at their expense. The western districts of Trabzon province form a gradual transition area to Anatolian Turkish. This Turkish will be more easily understood for tourists who have studied the language. Next to old varieties of Turkish, there are some minority languages that are spoken, mostly in the rural communities to the southwest and southeast of the city. ''Romeyka'' is the most archaic Greek language spoken in current times; its speakers are concentrated in the Of-valley along the Solaklı River in the villages on the mountain slopes in Çaykara district and surrounding areas. There are also small pockets of Greek-speaking Muslim villages in [[Tonya]] and [[Sürmene]] districts. Most locals don't like being called Greek; instead they use the terms ''Rum'' or ''Romioi'' (meaning Roman/Byzantine) to describe their heritage. However, they are very proud of their language, and they are happy to use it to converse with Greek-speaking tourists. Speakers of Modern Greek are generally unable to understand the local dialect, while people that have an understanding of Pontic or Cypriot Greek, or those who have an advanced education in Classical Greek, are able to engage with locals in basic conversations. It is still possible to find Pontic Greek speakers in Trabzon city, and tourists should not be afraid to openly speak [[Greek phrasebook|Greek]] in public spaces. It is more likely, however, to find a local who is fluent in German, Dutch, French or Russian. English language courses are immensely popular among the young generation, but it is not yet as commonly spoken as in neighboring Georgia. There are small groups of Georgians and Ukrainians in the city. One of the most remarkable languages in the Trabzon region, ''kuş dili'', is whistled in several villages straddling the border of Trabzon and [[Giresun]] provinces. It is one of a few whistled languages in the world, and it is kept alive through a yearly festival in Kuşköy (Bird village). ===Read=== Trabzon has long been touted as the "city of tale in the East". Its historical prominence, intellectual independence and trade relations with Italian city-states were elements that earned Trebizond a legendary mythical place in European literature until well after its economic and cultural peak when it functioned as the capital of the Empire of Trebizond in the 14th and 15th century (both Don Quixote and Picrochole wished to possess the city). The most renowned work of modern literature that describes the city is Rose Macaulay's ''The Towers of Trebizond''. Travellers interested in classical history might want to read Xenophon's ''Anabasis'', in which Trabzon enters as the first [[Ancient Greece|Greek]] city the soldiers encounter after their retreat from Persia. For those interested in the Renaissance trade relations of Trabzon, there is ''The Spring of the Ram'', the second book from the series ''The House of Niccolò'' by Dorothy Dunnett, and ''The Burnished Blade'' by Lawrence Schoonover. Popular Turkish novels which feature the city are ''Pomegranate Tree'' by Nazan Bekiroglu and ''Aleko of Trebizond'' by Kadri Özcan. ''L'immortelle de Trébizonde'', a French novel about the Armenian genocide by Paule Henry Bordeaux, has been republished, and ''Anyush'' is a publication by Martine Madden. Those attempting a round trip along the Black Sea could read ''Kéraban the Inflexible'' by Jules Verne; Turkish students recreating the journey concluded the trip was even more difficult a century later (virtually impossible since 2014). Those heading to Georgia might want to read about the myths of the '''Argonauts''' and their quest for the '''Golden Fleece'''; those heading west, to [[Samsun]] or [[Sinop]], about the '''Amazons'''. === View === The Black Sea region, and Trabzon in particular, has an important place in the history of Turkish theater, photography and cinema. The Pontic Greeks of Trebizond were among the first groups in the Ottoman Empire to establish theaters, musical venues and photography studios as early as the 1870s, and they were soon followed by the Armenian and Turkish population of the province. The long history of the city - and that of the Pontus in general - had already led to the creation of musicals and operas in Western Europe, such as Offenbach's ''The Princess of Trebizond'', which is still a popular play for theater groups around the world. The scenic pastoral environments surrounding the city, as well as the diverse local cultures and rich local folklore, has inspired many modern Turkish movie directors. Cinema from the region often addresses issues such as migration, isolation from modern society, dysfunctional or traumatized families, or mental health issues. Some notable films that have been recorded in the region are: ''Pandora's Box'' (about a woman suffering from Alzheimer) and ''Waiting for the Clouds'' (about an elderly Pontic Greek woman rediscovering her past) by Yeşim Ustaoğlu, ''Bal'' by Semih Kaplanoğlu (about a young boy in the mountains who has to learn to deal with grief), ''Cold of Kalandar'' by Mustafa Kara (about the struggle of a farmer hoping to strike gold during a strong winter), ''Zephyr'' by Belma Baş (about a youg girl who is abandoned by her mother), and ''Autumn'' by Özcan Alper (about the struggle of a former convict when he returns to his home soil). === Listen === Trabzon has its own musical culture, which stands apart from the rest of the country in rhythm, instrumentation and lyrical narratives, and has some Caucasian influences. Trabzon music is typically made to dance. Especially the 'Horon' circle dance has been a binding agent between the local people for millennia. The most popular topics of folk singers from Trabzon are melancholy for a lost childhood in the mountains, memories of a deceased friend or parent, or a doomed love affair (such as between a wealthy person and a peasant, or a Muslim and a Christian). Music from the region typically features prominently the local national instrument - the 'Kemençe' violin - and sometimes makes use of minority languages, such as Romeyka Greek or Laz. 'Karadenizli' (Black Sea) music is popular throughout the country, however, and local artists often collaborate with other Turkish artists, and musicians from the Pontic Greek diaspora in Greece. Some of the most popular artists from the region are Kazim Koyuncu, Volkan Konak, Apolas Lermi, Onur Atmaca, Ekin Uzunlar, and Adem Ekiz. ===Visitor information=== *{{listing | name=Tourist office | alt=Trabzon Turizm Bürosu | url=https://trabzon.ktb.gov.tr/?_dil=2 | email= | address= | lat=41.00519 | long=39.73157 | directions=one block to the east of Atatürk Alani square, down Camii Sk., just beyond Hotel Nur | phone=+90 462 3264760 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=For general tourist information. The staff speak English very well and provide a wealth of [http://www.trabzonkulturturizm.gov.tr/Eklenti/6793,trabzonkatalog-ingilizcepdf.pdf?0 information about Trabzon and its surroundings (pdf)]. Before doing anything in Trabzon, go to the tourist office. }} [[File:Grass cutting - Ot biçme 02.jpg|thumb|300px|Pontic Mountains at Pelitcik, Şalpazarı district]] == Get in == '''Not by train:''' Trabzon is the largest city in Turkey to entirely lack a railway, which it needs for its Black Sea freight. They've been talking about building one for over a century and look set to continue. '''Not by boat either:''' Black Sea ferries no longer sail here. A ferry from Sochi was supposed to start in 2025 but didn't. === By plane === [[File:Trabzon (TZX - LTCG) AN1966406.jpg | thumb | 300px | Trabzon Airport ]] {{go | name=Trabzon Airport | alt={{IATA|TZX}} | url=https://www.dhmi.gov.tr/Sayfalar/Havalimani/Trabzon/AnaSayfa.aspx | email=infotrabzon@dhmi.gov.tr | address= | lat=40.9951 | long=39.7897 | directions= | phone=+90 462 3280940 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1169859 | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=This has flights from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf, and Ercan in Northern Cyprus; few from Europe beyond occasionally from Germany. Domestic connections are excellent: hourly from Istanbul (IST and SAW) and at least daily from Ankara, Izmir and Adana. The airport has the usual facilities including car hire. Havaş shuttle bus runs downtown, otherwise walk to the coastal highway (westbound) for a dolmuş. }} === By road === D010 is the six-lane coastal highway. From Sarp on the border with Georgia takes 2½ hours and from Samsun takes 4½ hours. E97 is the inland highway, crossing the mountains to Gümüşhane and then east to Bayburt and Erzurum. D915 looks like a short-cut on the map, going inland from Of to Bayburt to join E97. It's scenic but scary, take it slow, and don't attempt it in winter. === By bus === Buses from Istanbul run several times a day and take 18 hours via [[Gebze]], [[Izmit]], [[Samsun]] and multiple Black Sea coast towns. Several continue to Batumi in Georgia. From [[Erzurum]] is 4 hours, ten per day; from Ankara they run hourly taking 12 hours. From [[Erzincan]] is 3 hr 30 min, from Adana 15 hr. Dolmuşes from [[Gümüşhane]] run hourly. One bus a day is from [[Batumi]], taking six hours via Sarp and Hopa. It has been known for the eastbound bus to give up at the border if the queue to cross is too long: walk across and pick up a dolmuş, see [[Batumi#Get in]]. Change there for Tbilisi and Baku. Bus operators include [https://www.metroturizm.com.tr/ Metro Turizm], Flixbus and [https://www.aliosmanulusoy.com/ Ulusoy]. {{marker | name=Otogar | type=go | lat=40.9966 | long=39.7523 }} the bus station is on Terminal Sk 3 km east of city centre. A free ''servis'' - shuttle bus - runs downtown. Otherwise walk north to the end of Terminal Sk to pick up a dolmuş on Devlet Karayolu Cd. == Get around == :: "Take my camel, dear", said my Aunt Dot, as she climbed down from this animal on her return from High Mass. ::: - ''The Towers of Trebizond'' (1956) by Rose Macaulay follows a group of conflicted dingbats on a journey from Istanbul ===On foot=== The center of Trabzon is walkable; most of its historical sights lie in an area of 1½ km by 500 m. This includes the area around central Meydan square in the east, the bazaar quarter in the center, and the historic walled city towards the west. If one is interested in taking in as many historical sights as possible, it is advisable to plan several walks around these different areas of the city. The historic city was built on a hill between two ravines (Zagnos to the west and Kuzgun to the east), thus there is a lot of height difference between neighbourhoods, and travellers should be prepared to climb up and down stairs and walk streets with steep inclinations. Car traffic has been limited through the historic neighborhoods, making it safer for pedestrians. Since the arrival of the coastal highway the city has been amputated from the sea. To alleviate this the city has started constructing a promenade along most of its 5&nbsp;km-long western coast. With few restaurants or other facilities, it has yet to regain its historic attractiveness. ===By minibus=== Notable locations outside the central zone are the Hagia Sophia to the west of the city and Boztepe tea garden overlooking the city towards the southeast. To get to these locations one best uses a minibus (dolmuş). There are dolmuş stops on '''Kahramanmaraş Street''' west off Meydan square. There is also a small minibus station just southeast of Meydan, under the viaduct. For transport towards one of the villages towards the east of Trabzon and in Rize province, there is again a different dolmus station along the coastal road. {{PoiMap2detail|41.0058|39.7307|18|M|Around Meydan <br /><small>(Mapnik layer is the most detailed)</small>}} * {{listing | type=go |name=Local minibus station|alt=Dolmuş gar|url=|email=|address=| lat=41.0043 | long=39.7315 |directions=to the south of central Meydan, under the viaduct|phone=| hours= | price=| content= Buses to neighborhoods of Trabzon and surrounding villages.}} * {{listing | type=go |name=Regional minibus station|alt=Dolmuş gar|url=|email=|address=|lat=41.0041 | long=39.7342 |directions=down the hill and to the east of central Meydan, west of the coastal road|phone=| hours= | price=| content= Buses to villages in Trabzon and Rize provinces.}} == See == {{Mapframe| 41.005 | 39.725 | height=400 | width=550 | zoom=14 }} ===Churches and mosques=== Trabzon has dozens of churches and mosques dating from the Byzantine period, the Empire of Trebizond and the Ottoman Empire. During the classical period the city at least had temples for Hermes (the god of trade), Apollo (sun), and multiple Mithraeum for the Persian-Greek god Mithras. A bronze statue of Hermes can be found in the basement of the Trabzon Museum. On the places of these temples, which were destroyed for the most part in the 3rd century, Christian chapels were built. The oldest surviving church is the 6th- or 7th-century Armenian church of St. Anna, which was built to the east of the Kuzgun (Tabakhane) valley because Armenians were not allowed to live inside the city walls. After the Ottoman conquest most churches within the walled city were converted into mosques. Many of these buildings retained some elements that hint at their Christian past. During the 18th and 19th centuries there was a boom in the construction of mosques and churches. Most of the historic churches and mosques of the city survived the first world war and the building frenzy of the 1970s onward. One of the most famous churches of the city however, the 19th-century Saint Gregory of Nyssa, which stood on the rocky outcrop at the former Genoese castle Leonkastron, overlooking both harbors of the city, was dynamited in 1930. ====Church buildings==== [[File:Hagia Sophia Trabzon.jpg | thumb | 300px | Hagia Sophia ]] [[File:Trabzon,citadel1.jpg|thumb|300px|The ancient city walls of Trabzon]] [[File:Khrysokephalos.jpg|thumb|300px|Fatih mosque, the former Panagia Khrysokephalos church]] [[file:Hagia Anna Trabzon.JPG|thumb|270px|St.Anna Church]] [[file:Hagios Eugenios Trabzon 2.JPG|thumb|270px|Yeni Cuma mosque, former Hagios Eugenios]] * {{see | name=Hagia Sophia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ayasofya Cd 60 | lat=41.0033 | long=39.6961 | directions=3 km west, ''dolmuş'' marked "Aya Sofya" | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hr | price=Free | wikipedia=Hagia Sophia, Trabzon | wikidata=Q1568666 | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=The city's top sight, a Byzantine church built in the 1250s, with beautiful frescoes, arches and friezes. It became a mosque in 2013 whereupon pre-Islamic features were covered up, but most of these were uncovered in 2020. The free-standing bell tower was added in 1427; nothing remains of the monastery. }} * {{see | name=St Anne's Church | alt=Küçük Ayvası Kilise | url= | email= | address=Mısırlıoğlı Ar 7 | lat=41.0061 | long=39.7233 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours | price=Free | wikipedia=Saint Anne Church, Trabzon | wikidata=Q15622502 | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Dinky little Greek Orthodox basilica from 6th / 7th century AD, one of the oldest buildings in the city. It fell out of use when the Greeks were deported and many frescos were painted over, but in 2021 / 22 it was all restored. }} * '''Office of the Chamber of Mechanical Engineers''' (''Makina Mühendisleri Odası'') is the imposing building facing St Anne's Church. * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Panagia Khrysokephalos | url= | email= | address=Fatih Cami Sk 1 | lat=41.0045 | long=39.7195 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Trabzon | wikidata=Q5437792 | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=The "Golden domed church of All Saints" was built in the 10th or 11th century on much earlier foundations - until the 4th century AD it was the scene of Mithras worship.In the Middle ages it was the city cathedral, and hosted coronations for the Emperors of Trebizond. It was converted to a mosque when the Ottomans took over in 1461. Restoration in 2017/18 uncovered more original features, and a raised glass platform enables you to see the fine late-Roman mosaic floor. }} * {{see | name=Yenicuma Mosque | alt=Church of Saint Eugenius | url= | email= | address=Cami Sk 48 | lat=41.0011 | long=39.7223 | directions=off Yavuz Selim Blv | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikipedia=New Friday Mosque | wikidata=Q8052263 | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Built in the 13th century as a church dedicated to Saint Eugenius, the patron saint of the city. Eugenius was a martyr under the persecutions of Diocletian around 305 AD. His holy intercession supposedly saved the city from Turkish assault in 1224, but did nothing to halt the conquest by Mehmet in 1461. The church was thereafter converted to a mosque, which remains in use and is only open for prayer times. }} * {{see | name=Santa Maria Church | alt=Santa Mariya Klisesi | url= | email= | address=Sümer Sk | lat=41.0072 | long=39.7318 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=This is the only church in Trabzon that still has regular Roman Catholic masses. It was founded by Italian Capuchin monks expelled from Tbilisi in 1845, as part of a long anti-Catholic campaign by the Russian Tsars. }} * {{see | name=St John Exoteichos Church | alt=Sotka Kilisesi | url= | email= | address=Haneci Sk 4 | lat=41.0079 | long=39.7151 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Former Greek Orthodox church founded in 1306 outside the city walls - ''exoteichos''- but rebuilt in 1856 very much hemmed in by the city. It's now used as an annex to a primary school. The exterior is in good condition, no access to the interior, where the frescoes have been lost. }} * {{see | name=Kudrettin Mosque | alt=St Philip Church | url= | email= | address=Kudrettin Cami Sk | lat=41.0008 | long=39.7341 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Built as St Philip Church in 1302 and extended into a cathedral in 1461. It was converted into a mosque circa 1665. In 1968 this was rebuilt, so what you see now is retro-Ottoman. }} * {{see | name=Molla Siyah Mosque | alt=Nakip Mosque | url= | email= | address=Mısırlı Sk 11 | lat=41.0071 | long=39.7184 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Nakip Mosque | wikidata=Q6960646 | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Built in the 11th-century as the Orthodox church of St. Andreas or Andrew, and converted to a mosque after 1461. It's still in use. }} * '''Sarmaşık Mosque''' or Eski ("Old") Kemerkaya Mosque is tucked away on Öğretmen Mektep Sk. It's thought to be a 13th century chapel, converted to a mosque around 1530. It's on sloping ground with the ablutions area at street level and the prayer hall accessed by an exterior stairway. * {{see | image= | name=Yeni Kemerkaya Mosque| alt=Kemerkaya Cami| url= | email=| address= |lat=41.0068 | long=39.7291| directions=| phone=| hours= | price=| content=Former church built in 1838}} * {{see | image= |name=Hızırbey Mosque|alt=Hızırbey Cami|url=|email=|address=|lat=41.0067 | long=39.7136| directions=|phone=|hours=|price=|content=Ottoman mosque built in 1789 around a pre-existing church.}} * {{see | name=Hüsnü Köktuğ Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Yaşar Kaptan Çebi Sk 11 | lat=41.0023 | long=39.735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Closed | price= | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Used as a mosque since 1953, and some believe it was formerly St Elefterios Church, built by the Genoese in the 15th century. However it doesn't look it, and more likely that church was closer to the port and long ago demolished. However Hüsnü Köktuğ has a strong claim to be the city's ugliest mosque, with its jarring modern facade. In 2025 it's closed for reconstruction. }} * {{see | name=Küçük Fatih Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bahçecik Cami Sk | lat=40.9937 | long=39.7171 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Built around the 12th / 13th century as St Akindynos Church, and converted into a mosque after the conquest of 1461. It's still in use. }} ====Islamic architecture==== Much of the Islamic architecture in Trabzon makes use of Seljuk and local Pontic/Caucasian references, instead of Ottoman ones found in other Turkish cities. Baroque Revivalism was also quite popular, and still has some influence on new mosque constructions. [[file:Çarşı Cami Trabzon.JPG|thumb|270px|Bazaar Mosque (Çarşı Camii), in the market quarter.]] [[file:Gülbahar Hatun Mosque.JPG|thumb|270px|Gülbahar Hatun Mosque.]] * {{see | name=İskender Paşa Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Meydan Cami Sk 15 | lat=41.0059 | long=39.729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours | price=Free | wikipedia=İskender Pasha Mosque, Trabzon | wikidata=Q8080194 | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Built by governor İskender Pasha in 1559, and extensively restored in 1882. Its medressah and graveyard have been lost. }} * {{see | name=Bazaar Mosque | alt=Çarşı Camii | url= | email= | address=Çarşı Cami Sk 4 | lat=41.0075 | long=39.7234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=This late Baroque mosque was built in 1839 by governor Hazinedarzade Osman Paşa in the midst of the market quarter. It's the oldest surviving mosque in the city. }} * {{see | name=Gulbahar Hatun Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Şenol Güneş Cd 17 | lat=41.0032 | long=39.7161 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6066259 | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Founded in 1514 by Selim, then governor and later Sultan, in honour of his mother. Gulbahar Hatun (1453-1505) was originally a slave girl and became the concubine of Bayezid II; her tomb is here. The mosque was repaired in 1883. }} * {{see | image= |name=İçkale Mosque|alt=İçkale Camii|url=|email=|address=|lat=41.0008|long=39.7192| directions=|phone=|hours=|price=|content=Built in 1470 this was probably the first mosque to be constructed in the city. It is a small mosque on the acropolis of the old town, near the former palace. It was restored in the 19th century. The minaret dates to the 1960s.}} * {{see | name=Hacı Kasım Muhittin Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Muhittin Cami Sk 9 | lat=41.0038 | long=39.7243 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Sturdy Ottoman mosque built in 1822. }} * {{see | name=Erdoğdu Bey Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kıble Sk 1 | lat=41.001 | long=39.7123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Built in its present form in 1577, this is no longer in use, replaced by a larger modern mosque adjacent. }} * {{see | name=Tabakhane Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uzun Sk 77 | lat=41.0051 | long=39.7227 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-17:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Built in 1987 in retro style on the site of an earlier mosque. }} * {{see | name=Pazarkapı Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaferi Sk | lat=41.0078 | long=39.7207 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=First built in 1563, but entirely rebuilt in 1987. }} * {{see | image= |name=Tekke Mosque|alt=Tekke Cami|url=|email=|address=|lat=41.0038 | long=39.7295| directions=|phone=|hours=|price=|content=Ottoman mosque, built in 1591.}} * {{see | image= |name=Hamza Paşa Mosque|alt=Hamza Paşa Camii|url=|email=|address=|lat=41.0045 | long=39.7130| directions=|phone=|hours=|price=|content=Ottoman mosque, built in 1745.}} * {{see | name=Hacı Salih Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Alacahan Sk 14 | lat=41.0078 | long=39.7244 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Ottoman mosque, built in 1860. }} * {{see | image= |name=Tavanli Mosque|alt=Tavanli Cami|url=|email=|address=|lat=41.0013 | long=39.7276| directions=|phone=|hours=|price=|content=Ottoman mosque, built in 1874.}} * {{see | image=Ahi Evran.jpg | name=Ahi Evren Dede Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.996397 | long=39.7352631 | directions=| phone=| hours= | price=| content=Ottoman mosque, built in 1890}} * {{see | image=Haji Yahya Mosque Trabzon.jpg | name=Haji Yahya Mosque| alt=Haji Yahya Cami | url= | email=| address= |lat=41.00811 | long=39.72222| directions=| phone=| hours= | price=| content=Small Ottoman mosque}} * {{see | image=Hoca Halil Mosque Trabzon.jpg | name=Hoca Halil Mosque Mosque| alt=Hoca Halil Cami | url= | email=| address= | |lat=41.0078 | long=39.7178| directions=| phone=| hours= | price=| content=Small Ottoman mosque first built in 1553. Rebuilt in 1896 and 1963.}} * {{see | image= |name=Hasan Ağa Mosque|alt=Hasan Ağa Cami|url=|email=|address=|lat= 40.99721 | long=39.74818| directions=|phone=|hours=|price=|content=Mosque built in 1548. This mosque lies outside the central core of the city, in the Değirmendere neighborhood to the southeast of the harbor.}} * {{see | name=Semerciler Mosque | alt=Semerciler Camii | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.20377 | long=36.16339 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Small Ottoman mosque, built in 1759. }} * {{see | image= | name=Müftü Mosque|alt=Müftü Cami|url= |address= |lat=41.00661 | long=39.72296| directions=|phone= |hours= |price=| content=1967 reconstruction of an Ottoman mosque first built in 1753.}} ====Monasteries==== * {{see | name=Kızlar Monastery | alt=Panagia Monastery, Kızlar Manastırı | url= | email= | address=Desen Sokak and Mht. Coşkun Karaağaçlı Cd. corner, Boztepe Mh. | lat=40.9985 | long=39.729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kızlar Monastery | image=Trabzon,Kizlar1.jpg | wikidata=Q6454774 | content=The Kızlar (girls) Monastery was the only nunnery in the city. It was built in the 1360s around one of the holy cave springs at Boztepe (mount Minthrion), which is thought to have functioned as chapel devoted to the Persian-Greek god Mithras. The rock church has frescoes depicting Alexios III, his wife Theodora and his mother Irene (who is thought to be the befector of the monastery). The monastery functioned until 1922, when the Orthodox population left the city as part of the exchange of populations between Turkey and Greece. The monastery is closed for restoration work. The municipality plans to transform it into a cultural arts center. }} * {{see | name=Kaymaklı Monastery | alt=Monastery of the All-Saviour, Ամենափրկիչ Վանք | url= | email= | address=Hizmet Cd., Çukurçayır mah., west of Değirmendere river| lat=40.9943 | long=39.74418 | directions=2 km East | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kaymaklı Monastery | image=Kaymakli-southwest.jpg | wikidata=Q830472 | content=The Armenian monastery of the All-Saviour is in a suburb to the southeast of Boztepe. It is made up of a number of structures, which may not be accessible to visitors, as the monastery is in a state of disrepair. The interior of the church of the monastery is covered in frescoes. }} === Museums === [[Image:Trabzon Museum 1.jpg|thumb|270px|Trabzon Museum]] * {{see | name=Archaeology Museum | alt=Kostaki Mansion | url=https://www.kulturportali.gov.tr/turkiye/trabzon/gezilecekyer/trabzon-muzesi | email= | address=Zeytinlik Cd 7 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Closed | price= | wikipedia=Trabzon Museum | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=This fine mansion was built for the banker Kostaki Teophylaktos in 1889. It's been closed for renovation since 2018 with no news of re-opening. }} * {{see | name=City Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kahramanmaraş Cd 14 | lat=41.0059 | long=39.7281 | directions= | phone=+90 462 321 4769 | hours=Tu-Su 09:00-19:00 | price=Adult 50 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=This exhibits city history from its Ancient Greek foundation to Ottoman times, plus local natural history and ethnography. Signage is only in Turkish. }} * {{see | name=Trabzorspor Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hüsnü Aybay Sk 6 | lat= | long= | directions=opposite City Museum | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-17:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=History and trophies of Trabzonspor football club. }} * {{see | name=History Museum | alt=Ortahisar Tarih Müzesi | url=https://karadeniz.gov.tr/trabzon-tarih-muzesi/ | email= | address=Sarayatik Cami Sk | lat=41.0047 | long=39.7209 | directions= | phone=+90 462 321 9058 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-17:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Restored mansion with photographs, documents and artefacts describing the city in the Ottoman and Republican periods. Signage is only in Turkish. }} * {{see | name=Atatürk Pavilion | alt=Atatürk Köşkü | url= | email= | address=Ata Cd 1, Soğuksu | lat=40.9798 | long=39.6979 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-19:00 | price= | wikidata=Q6025611 | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The summer home of banker Konstantin Kabayanidis, built late 19th century. He left during the post-war population exchanges and from 1924 Atatürk stayed here on several occasions. It's been furnished to period with his memorabilia. }} * {{see | name=Silk Road Museum | alt=Ipekyolu Müzesi | url=https://www.ipekyolumuzesi.com/ | email= | address=Devlet Sahil Yolu Cd 103 | lat=41.0089 | long=39.7197 | directions=Within Chamber of Trade and Industry. | phone=+90 462 326 80 70 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 08:30-17:30 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Exhibits connected to the silk road trade. }} ===Caravanserai=== {{PoiMap2detail|41.00672|39.72357|18|M|The Bazaar <br /><small>(Mapnik layer is the most detailed)</small>}} Three of the historic caravanserai of the city have been restored. They are all near each other in the Bazaar district. * {{see |image=Bedestan, Trabzon.JPG | name=Bedesten|alt=| url=| address= |lat=41.00782 | long=39.72368| directions=| phone= | price=| content=A former caravanserai. Restored and turned into an arts and crafts center.}} * {{see | image= | name=Taş Han|alt=| url=| address= |lat=41.00723 | long=39.72393| directions=| phone= | price=| content=A former caravanserai. Restored.}} * {{see | image= | name=Alaca Han|alt=| url=| address= |lat=41.00787 | long=39.72462| directions=| phone= | price=| content=A former caravanserai. Restored and turned into an arts and crafts center.}} === Other === [[Image:Trabzon City walls and Aquaduct.JPG|thumb|270px|Aqueduct in Zagnos Valley Park]] [[Image:Engineers and Architects Trabzon office.jpg|thumb|270px|Office of the chamber of mechanical engineers]] [[Image:Trabzon mansions.JPG|thumb|270px|Historic mansions in Zagnos Valley Park]] * {{marker | name=City walls | type=see | wikidata=Q6011652 }} are best viewed from Zagnos bridge and park. They're sometimes called a castle or fortress but were simply the walls and towers of the ancient city perched on the crag. Masonry was continually recycled so they're a hotch-potch of Roman, Byzantine, Trebizond and Ottoman work. * {{see | image=Trabzon City walls and Aquaduct.JPG | name=Eugenius Aqueduct|alt=Kemeri| url=| address= | lat=41.0005 | long=39.7178| directions=| phone= | price=| content=In the south of Zagnos Valley Park there is a small late Roman/early Byzantine aqueduct.}} * {{see | name=Kalepark Fortress | alt=Güzelhisar | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.008 | long=39.7343 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kalepark | image=Leonkastron fortress.jpg | wikidata=Q6352143 | content=It is a former Genoese fortification called ''Leonkastron''. You can get there by walking to the northeast from the eastern end of Meydan square. There is a tea garden just west of the fortress, but as of early 2022 this area is undergoing major renovations. }} * {{see| image=Trabzon Bar Association.jpg | name=Trabzon Bar Association|alt=| url=| address= | lat=41.0029 | long=39.7322| directions=| phone= | price=| content=The former American consulate, squeezed in between Yavuz Selim boulevard southeast of central Meydan square.}} * {{see | image=Trabzon Gazeteciler Cemiyeti.jpg | name=Office of the chamber of journalists|alt=| url=| address= |lat=41.00475 | long=39.73085| directions=| phone= | price=| content=Small but quaint historic building on the central Meydan square.}} * {{see| image=City governor's office, Trabzon.jpg | name=Former Trebizond Province Governors office|alt=| url=| address= | lat=41.0046 | long=39.7204| directions=| phone= | price=| content=This historic building now houses a cultural center.}} * {{see| image=Russian consulate, Trabzon.jpg | name=Russian consulate|alt=| url=| address= | lat=41.0041 | long=39.7199| directions=| phone= | price=| content=This large building is in the heart of the historic walled city.}} * {{see | name=Former Phrontisterion | alt=Kanuni Anadolu Lisesi | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0077 | long=39.7287 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3562751| wikipedia=Phrontisterion of Trapezous | image=Phrontisterion of Trapezous.JPG | content=Now the Turkish high school ''Kanuni Anadolu Lisesi''. This monumental building housed the main Pontic Greek school of higher learning until 1921. }} * {{see| image= | name=Trabzon Art House|alt=Trabzon Sanat Ev (Eski Vali Konağı)| url=| address= |lat=41.0040 | long=39.7267| directions=| phone= | price=| content=The former city governors mansion.}} * {{see | image=Trebisonda,_Cephanelik_(ex-polveriera,_oggi_hotel)_01.jpg | name=Arsenal| alt=Cephanelik | url= | email=| address= | lat=40.9924 | long=39.7223 | directions=| phone=| hours= | price=| content=In the south of the Tabakhane valley lies the old armory. It is restored and now houses a restaurant.}} * {{see | image= | name=Nemlioglu Mansion | alt=Nemlioglu Konak, Nemlioğlu Konağı | url= | address= | lat=41.0021 | long=39.7277 | directions=Central| phone=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{see | name=Ortahisar education directorate|alt=Ortahisar ilçe milli eğitim müdürlüğü| url=| address= | lat=41.0060 | long=39.7246 | directions=| phone= | price=| content= Monumental building on Kahramanmaraş street. }} * {{see | name=Trabzon Aquarium | alt= | url=https://www.trabzonakvaryum.com.tr/ | email= | address=Kuzgundere Cd 82 | lat=41.0008 | long=39.7203 | directions= | phone=+90 561 611 4335 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-19:00 | price=Adult 250 TL | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Large walk-through aquarium. }} * {{see | name=Trabzon Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address=Çamoba | lat=41.0008 | long=39.7203 | directions= | phone=+90 462 224 6161 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Peaceful colourful park above the city. }} ===Parks=== * {{listing | image=Trabzon Meydan.jpg | name=Meydan |lat=41.0053 | long=39.7308|content=encircled by Atatürk Alanı. The central park has been renovated. There is a large statue of Ataturk which draws groups of demonstrators. But you can easily drink a relaxing tea under the trees, watch passers-by, eat on the sidewalk cafes or have a beer on one of the rooftop bars.}} * {{listing| image=Zagnos valley park.jpg | name=Zagnos bridge & valley park |lat=41.0044 | long=39.7182|content=A park along the western side of the ancient walled city. With views on many historic mansions. Within the park one can also find a small open-air theater, a Byzantine aqueduct, and the "Trabzon Aquarium".}} * {{listing| image=Trabzon2 RIMG0860.JPG | name=Boztepe tea garden |lat=40.9982 | long=39.7297|content=Southeast of the center, on a hill overlooking the city. Offers great views during day and night. Until the 3rd century AD, a tall statue of Mithra stoodguarding the city on the hill, which was at that time named after the Persian-Greek god. It was replaced by a church and later a mosque. On the hill lies the Kızlar monastery, which is being renovated to house an arts center.}} * {{listing | name=Fatih Park |lat=41.0031 | long=39.7314|content=A public tea garden just southeast of Meydan near the Iranian consulate. Come here to relax or play a game of backgammon.}} * {{listing | name=Atapark |lat=41.0041 | long=39.7158|content=To the west of Zagnos bridge. It has a tea garden, Ottoman mosque, and the central public library. There is also a full-size model of a ''Serander'', a timber structure typical of the Black Sea region meant to store food away from rodents. To the north of the park is the Varlıbaş shopping mall and the City Council building.}} * {{listing| image=Tabakhane Bridge, Trabzon.jpg | name=Kuzgun / Tabakhane valley park |lat=41.0043 | long=39.7218|content=The new park along the eastern side of the city. Under construction.}} {{PoiMap2detail|41.0002|39.7308|17|M|Boztepe Hill<br />}} ===Further afield=== ====South of Trabzon==== [[File:Sumela monastery in province of Trabzon, Turkey view from the road.JPG|thumb|300px|Sümela Monastery]] [[File:Rock Church frescoes, Sumela.JPG|thumb|300px|Fresco at Sümela]] * {{listing | type=around | name=Sümela Monastery | alt=Turkish: Sümela Manastırı; Greek: Panagia Soumela, Virgin Mary of Soumela | url=https://www.sumela.gov.tr/ | email=sumela@muze.gov.tr | address=Altındere Vadisi, Maçka | lat=40.69 | long=39.658333 | directions= | phone=+90 462 5311064 | tollfree= | hours= | price=125 TL | wikipedia=Sumela Monastery | image=Sumela monastery in province of Trabzon, Turkey view from the road.JPG | wikidata=Q1419157 | lastedit=2022-08-17 | content= }} A spectacular rock-hewn monastery perched dramatically on the narrow ledge of a steep cliff in the forests south of Trabzon. It was built in the fourth century, just before the Roman Empire split into east and west, by two Athenian priests, Barnabas and Sophronius, who, according to legend, found a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary in a cave. The monastery's location in this geopolitically tumultuous corner of the globe naturally saw times of trouble and fell into ruin numerous times throughout its history, with its most thriving times falling under Byzantine and Ottoman rule. The 20th century, however, was not kind to the monastery. It was abandoned following the chaos and inter-ethnic violence at the end of World War I, and the population transfer of Trabzon's (formerly Trebizond) Greek population back to [[Greece]]. Its remote location gave it some sanctuary, but its frescoes still attracted the occasional casually hurled rock by a bored shepherd. The beautiful frescoes today suffer from decades of heart-wrenchingly pointless vandalism by travelers&mdash;judging from the various alphabets and names scrawled across these impressive religious works of art, it appears that just about every culture in the world has taken part in the desecration. The buildings have been fairly heavily restored, as the Turkish government has stepped in to protect the monastery and to turn it into a museum. During restoration work in 2017 a passage was discovered leading to a hidden chapel, which has frescoes depicting life, death, heaven and hell. Visitors can view all areas of the monastery, including previously inaccessible spaces such as the library and the newly discovered chapel. Getting there: * The simplest way to get to the monastery is by tour, and you can find a tour in town by just asking any other traveller there (no tourist visits Trabzon without seeing Sümela). For instance, [http://www.eycetours.com Eyce Tours] offers round trip to Sumela for about 30 TL (address: Atatürk Alani, at Taksim İşhanı sk. 11. (462) 3267174). The Metro and Ulusoy bus companies run minibuses to the monastery during summer months from their Atatürk Alani offices. * The monastery lies close to [[Maçka]], about 30&nbsp;km south of Trabzon, and those preferring to get to the monastery on their own means instead of taking a tour can get to Maçka by taking minibuses heading for [[Gümüşhane]], [[Erzurum]] or other destinations south from Trabzon. There is also a direct bus connection run by Maçka municipality from Cemil Usta street south of Meydan square. The rest of the way, approximately 17&nbsp;km to the actual site of monastery, can be done by hitchhiking. The ''dolmuş'' from downtown Maçka have the same price than if you would buy it from Trabzon (20 TL) and departs at 10:30, which will take you to the entrance of Altındere National Park (''Milli Park''). Then, the monastery is about half an hour walk away, which can be done through a forest trail, which has been widened in order to cope with the ever increasing numbers of visitors, or along the tarmac road leading to the monastery. * Those approaching with their own vehicles can get as near as 300 m to Sümela, where there is a car-park in front of Hagia Barbara Chapel. There is an additional fee of 20 TL for cars, paid at the entrance of the national park. Since Sümela is closed for the moment (but you still went to Maçka village for some reason), you can explore Altındere national park. Upstream along Altındere (Golden River) above the tree line are beautiful landscapes with ice cold lakes. An alternative route could lead eastward towards the ghost towns of {{marker|type=around|name=Santa|lat=40.664|long=39.802}} (Dumanlı, in far northern Gümüşhane province), dispersed over a number of valleys high up the mountains. The ruins are of a collection of [[mining tourism|mining towns]] abandoned when their Pontic Greek inhabitants were forced out during the population transfer. Santa is accessible by a car, although getting there is an adventure in itself. Otherwise, these are multi-day treks for which you need an experienced tour guide. The best place to arrange this would be in Trabzon at one of the tourist offices off Meydan square. [[File:Kustul Monastery Trabzon.jpg|thumb|300px|Kuştul Monastery]] * {{listing | type=around | name=Vazelon Monastery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Maçka district, | lat=40.7634 | long=39.5327 | directions=40 km south of Trabzon | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Vazelon Monastery | wikidata=Q829582 | lastedit=2017-06-18 | content=Founded in 270 AD as one of the first Christian monasteries in the world. The wealth aggregated at Vazelon through taxation of the lands in the valley below were invested in the construction of some of the other monasteries in the region. Now it lies ruined and abandoned. The road is rocky and dangerous. Check current conditions, as fallen trees or other obstacles may make it impossible to access the monastery. The impressive outer walls of the monastery remain standing in large part, but the roof has collapsed entirely. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Kuştul Monastery | alt=Turkish: Kuştul Manastırı, Greek: Ιερά Μονή του Αγίου Γεωργίου Περιστερεώτα | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.7964 | long=39.6839 | directions=near Şimşirli village, 30 km southeast of Trabzon | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kuştul Monastery | image=Kustul Monastery Trabzon.jpg | wikidata=Q513424 | content=The Saint George Peristereota Monastery was one of the most impressive monuments of the entire Pontus, rivaling Sumela with its dramatic location on a rocky mountaintop. The monastery was made up of multiple residential and clerical structures, including two freestanding churches. It is now almost completely ruined and exceedingly difficult to reach. To get an idea of how it looked before it was abandoned, watch the 3D reconstruction video by architect Nefidis Vladimiros on YouTube. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Günes Sanat Galerisi | alt=Art gallery | url= | email= | address=village Zigana (also called Kalkanli) | lat=40.6078 | long=39.3649 | directions=about 1 hour by bus from Trabzon southward over the mountains towards Torul and Gümüshane | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This art gallery is made by Mr Azmi Aytekin, a 73-year-old painter and thinker from Zigana. He has travelled around the world, and has settled in the small village Zigana (also called Kalkanli) near the magnificent Zigana mountains. }} [[Image:Mansions in Trabzon 2.jpg|thumb|270px|Mansions in Akçaabat, just west of Trabzon]] [[File:Uzungöl lake and town.jpg|thumb|300px|Uzungöl lake and town in Çaykara district]] ====West of Trabzon==== * {{listing | type=around | image=Mansions in Trabzon 2.jpg | name=Memorial House Museum of Akçaabat| alt=Akçaabat Ortamahalle Evleri Müzesi | url= | email=| address= | lat=41.0203 | long=39.5632 | directions=| phone= | hours= | price=|lastedit=2022-02-22| content= Akçaabat (former Platana, the village closest to Trabzon city) is home to dozens of historical wooden mansions in the local Neoclassical Pontic style, which resembles 19th-century Northern European and American domestic architecture. It also has two church buildings, one of which has been restored (Saint Joseph church).}} * {{listing| type=around | name=Çal Caves| alt=Çal Mağarası | url= | email= | address= Çal, Düzköy| lat=40.86519 | long=39.37965 | directions= 30 km southwest of Akçaabat. Follow provincial road 61-76 until Çiğdemli. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Th-Sa 08:00-17:00 | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= |lastedit=2022-02-21| content=A large set of caves with waterfalls. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Akçakale Fortress | alt=Akçakale kalesi | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0807 | long=39.5036 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Akçakale tower | wikidata=Q4702058 | content=Only worth it if you plan on visiting the beach nearby. }} ====East of Trabzon==== * {{listing | type=around | name=[[Sürmene]]|alt=Greek: Σούρμενα, Sourmena; Ottoman Turkish: ﺳﻮرﻣﻨﻪ) |lat=40.914167| long=40.1125|directions=E 40 km| content=5 km to the west of Sürmene stands a ruined medieval castle. 5 km to the east stand the Memiş Ağa Konağı and the Ahmet Aga Konağı, two large restored historical mansions. Sürmene itself does not have any significant sights but may warrant a stopover to buy supplies when you plan to take the 'Caravan Road' heading south from the town towards the Pontic Mountains (see the section 'Outdoors'). }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Uzungöl lake and town | alt=Saraho | url=https://uzungol.net | email= | address= | lat=40.619 | long=40.292 | directions=99 km from Trabzon, 19 km from Caykara | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-18:00 | price= | content=A lake up in the mountains at an altitude of 1090 m. A great number of broken rocks from the slopes filled up Haldizen stream and Uzungöl was formed in this way. The lake is 1000 m long, 500 m in width and 15 m in depth. It is surrounded by forests. Uzungöl has an interesting view with the village houses around it. And there are some other small lakes on the mountains which are 15-20 km from Uzungol. The lake is also surrounded by convenient tracks for hiking. There are some facilities such as bungalows and some establishments which rear trout. Travel agencies organize day tours during summer (40 TL). Uzungöl is the most touristic location in Trabzon province. The closest summer settlements are on the yaylas {{marker|type=around|name=Karester|lat=40.6049|long=40.2663}} and {{marker|type=around|name=Lustra|lat=40.6013|long=40.3009}}, just south of Uzungöl. These hamlets offer great views on the valley and are a bit less touristy than the town below. From Karester or Lustra you can further explore the alpine landscapes and traditional architecture by hiking or mountain-biking. For some ideas for multi-day hikes near Uzungöl - or Çaykara district in general - see 'Trekking & Bikepacking' of the section 'Do/Outdoors'. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Uzungöl Dursun Ali İnan Museum | alt= | url=https://inankardeslerotel.com/en/uzungol-museum.html | email=info@uzungolmuzesi.com | address=Fatih road, Uzungöl, Çaykara | lat=40.61762 | long=40.30417 | directions=a few hundred meters east of lake Uzungöl, on the south side of the Demirkapi (Haldizen) stream | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A unique eclectic museum in Turkey showcasing the art, history, culture and nature of the region surrounding lake Uzungöl in Çaykara district. On display are collections of ancient amphora, antique home appliances, tools, musical instruments, cow bells, gravestones belonging to people of different faiths, and many other objects collected by Mr Dursun. The museum also houses a large collection of massive wrought tree trunks and dozens of wooden sculptures of animals and humans. Even the different types of rocks and stones which can be found in the area may be viewed as pieces of art. Unlike other museums in Trabzon the Dursun Ali İnan Museum is bilingual in Turkish and English. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Cevdet Sunay Memorial House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Çaykara-Sultan Murat Rd | lat= | long= | directions=21 km away in Ataköy | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6048671 | content=Cevdet Sunay was the fifth president of Turkey. He was born in this small town and grew up in Trabzon. His birthplace has been a museum since 2001. It is near the Sultan Murat Yayla, where an important memorial site from the First World War is on Martyrs Hill ('''Şehitler Tepesi'''). }} ====Mansions==== In the rural districts of Trabzon one can find many historical 18th and 19th century churches, mosques and mansions. * {{listing | type=around | image= | name=Yakupoglu Memis Aga Mansion|alt=Yakupoğlu Memiş Ağa Konağı|url= | address= | lat= 40.91319 | long=40.17473 | directions=Sürmene quarter|phone=| hours= |price=| content= }} * {{listing | type=around | image= |name=Ahmet Aga Mansion|alt=Yakupoğlu Ahmet Ağa Konağı| url= | address= | lat= 40.9133 | long=40.17614 |directions=Sürmene quarter|phone=|hours= | price=| content= }} * {{listing | type=around | name=99 Window Hashim Aga Mansion | alt=99 Pencereli Haşim Ağa Konağı | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.86376 | long=40.07404 | directions='Sürmene' quarter | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | type=around | image= | name=Mustafa Topal Mansion| alt=Sarımollaoğlu Topal Mustafa Konaği | url= | address= | lat= | long= | directions='Araklı' quarter| phone=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Cakiroglu Ismail Aga Mansion | alt=Çakıroğlu İsmail Ağa Konağı | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.92514 | long=40.35599 | directions='Of' quarter | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Cakiroglu Hasan Aga Mansion | alt=Çakıroğlu Hasan Ağa Konağı | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.9625 | long=40.29786 | directions='Of' quarter | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Do== === Sports === [[File:Medical Park Arena Trabzonspor - Galatasaray.jpg | thumb | 300px | Trabzonspor playing at home to Galatasaray ]] * '''Football''' {{do | name=Trabzonspor | alt=Papara Park | url=https://www.trabzonspor.org.tr/en | email= | address=Şenol Güneş Stadium | lat=40.9980 | long=39.6506 | directions=bus to Akyazı | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Şenol Güneş Stadium | wikidata=Q7012155 | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=They play soccer in Süper Lig, the top tier. They're Turkey's most successful team outside Istanbul and often qualify for European tournaments. As well as local support, they have big diaspora followings in Istanbul and Baku. The stadium (capacity 40,800) is named for Şenol Güneş (b 1952), former goalkeeper and manager of Trabzon and the Turkish national team. Trabzonspor women's team play at Mehmet Ali Yılmaz Stadium. }} * {{do | name=Yomra Climbing Gym | alt=Yomra Tırmanış Duvarı | url= | email= | address=Hükümet Cd, Yomra | lat=40.9557 | long=39.8660 | directions= | phone=+90 462 344 0992 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Sports complex with climbing and bouldering. For natural climbing try the Şahınkaya rockface in the western district of Düzköy. }} ===Hamams, beaches and swimming pools=== Trabzon city has been left without a beach since the construction of the coastal highway. However, there is a small public beach called Kaşüstü Plajı at Yomra town, some 10&nbsp;km east of Trabzon. Larger public beaches can be found at Akçakale, 25&nbsp;km to the west, and at Kalecik, 25&nbsp;km to the east of the city. The water of the Black Sea is not suitable for swimming during the colder months of the year. Also, these shingle beaches don't offer the comfort or facilities that one finds in the Turkish riviera. The nearest beach holiday destinations are [[Giresun]] to the west and [[Batumi]] to the east. Within the city are 4 historical bathhouses (hamams). Two of them have retained their function and are open to the public. The central Hamam is continually operational for both sexes, while the 'Eight columned bath' in the lower part of the old town has specific days for male and females. *{{do | name=Central Hamam | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0052 | long=39.7299| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Try a traditional Turkish bath (hamam). The men-only Hamam is right next to Efes Pub; the women-only Hamam is just around the corner. A really great authentic Turkish experience, and the people are very nice and will walk you through everything. 25 TL for a bath (including a scrubbing and massage) at the women's hamam, and you should also tip your masseuse. }} *{{do | name=Sekiz Direkli Hamam | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0082 | long=39.7187| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another historic hamam, to the west of the bazaar quarter. }} *{{do | name=Kaşüstü Municipal Family Beach | alt=Kaşüstü Belediye Aile Plajı | url= | email= | address= | lat= 40.96867 | long=39.84209| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= The nearest public beach, some 10 km east of the city center. }} * {{do | name=Akçakale Beach | alt=Akçakale Plajı | url= | email=| address= | lat=41.0823731 | long=39.5025678 | directions=W 24 km| phone= | hours= | price=| content= }} * {{do | name=Kalecik Beach| alt=Kalecik Plajı| url= | email=| address= | lat=40.9583|long=40.0304 | directions=E 25 km| phone= | hours= | price=| content= }} * {{do | name=Aquapark | alt=| url= | email=| address= | lat=41.0510 | long=39.5374 | directions=| phone= | hours= | price=| content=Outdoor swimming pool with large slides between Akçakale and Akçaabat. }} * {{do | name=Mehmet Akif Ersoy Indoor Swimming Pool | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0004 | long=39.7799 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6809567| wikipedia=Mehmet Akif Ersoy Indoor Swimming Pool | content=Olympic-size swimming pool. Not for small children. }} ===Festivals=== [[Image:Kadirga.jpg|thumb|270px|Dancers at Kadirga Festival. One of the must-do's when in Trabzon; learn the Horon circle dance, it will come in handy in most countries around the Black Sea.]] * '''Black Sea Theatre Festival''' Mostly (but not exclusively) groups from countries around the Black Sea participate in this festival. * '''International Painting Festival''' Promoting painting in the wider area of Trabzon. * '''Kadirga Festival''' (third week of June, Kadirga Yaylası, southwest Maçka district) The largest and oldest folk festival of Turkey. On the Pontic Alps near the Gümüşhane province border. Locals, European Turks and Pontic Greeks meet on the mountain pastures to celebrate their shared culture in folk costume, music, dance and cuisine. On other summer pastures (yayla's) there are similar (but smaller) festivities. * '''Sultan Murat Festival''' (Sultanmurat Şenlikleri) After the Kadirga Festival this is the largest folk festival of Trabzon. It is held in the end of August on the Sultanmurat yayla, 25&nbsp;km southwest of Çaykara village. * '''Ramadan''' The Islamic holy month (called Ramazan in Turkish) is very visible in Trabzon. While most liquor stores and restaurants close during the day, in the evening it can be hard to find a free spot on the many sidewalk cafes surrounding central Meydan square. * '''Assumption Day''' (August 15, Sümela Monastery) Every year since 2010 the Greek Orthodox patriarch has led a 'divine liturgy' at the Sümela Monastery (Moní Panagías Soumelá) in Maçka district, south of the city. Because of the size and location of the monastery, only a few hundred people are allowed to join the liturgy. In Maçka village screens are set up for other pilgrims. * '''Kalandar''' (Calendar Night, 13–14 January) In some villages in Maçka, Tonya, Sürmene and Çaykara districts, similar to Pontic Greek ''Momogeroi'', the "old-new year" of the Julian calendar is celebrated. The tradition goes back to pre-Christian Dionysian rituals. Locals wear traditional clothing, or guise themselves as the 'village doctor', a herder and his sheep, the demons Karakoncoloz or Momoyer, or (less frequently) as the blackfaced 'Arab traveller' Haji Firuz/Arápis. It is similar to trick-or-treating festivities in other European countries, such as Halloween or Sint-Maarten. Youths go house to house, singing songs and collecting sweets or ingredients for a shared meal around a campfire. In the recent past, Trabzon welcomed Pontic Greek cultural organizations to participate in the festivities, but since 2019 the national Turkish government has denied visa applications to these groups. * A historically important festival in Trabzon was ''Epiphany'' on January 6. Thousands of Christians and Muslim onlookers gathered at ''Kalmek point'', the place where the city protrudes the most into the Black Sea, to see the Christian ceremony. With the departure of the Greek Orthodox population, this tradition was lost to the city. ===Entertainment=== *{{do | name=Cinemaximum| url= | email= | address= |lat=40.9992 | long=39.7606| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The movie theater at the Forum shopping mall. Mainly shows blockbusters with Turkish subtitles. }} *{{do | name=Royal Sinema| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0048 | long=39.7280 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The main cinema near central Meydan square. Also offers blockbusters with Turkish subtitles. Next door to '''Lara cinema''', which mainly shows dubbed movies. }} *{{do | name=Avşar Sinema| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0047 | long=39.7161 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This cinema is in the Varlıbaş AVM shopping mall north of Atapark (just to the west of the western city walls). Blockbusters with Turkish subtitles, but offers a slightly larger choice. }} *{{do | name=Trabzon state theater| alt=Trabzon Devlet Tiyatrosu| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0031 | long=39.7169 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Trabzon was one of the first Ottoman cities to house a theater, and in 1912 it was the first city in the empire outside Istanbul to have an opera house. The state theater of Trabzon still offers quality plays. Even though virtually all plays are in Turkish, the powerful performances can still move tourists. }} *{{do | name=Hamamizade İhsanbey Cultural Center| alt=Hamamizade İhsanbey Kültür Merkez| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.00603 | long=39.73126 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A culture center with (amongst other things) a theater hall. It is one of a few interesting works of modern architecture in the city. }} ===Outdoors=== [[File:Karayaka sheep flocks, Sisdağı 04.jpg|thumb|270px|Karayaka sheep flocks, Sisdağı, Geyikli, Şalpazarı district]] [[File:61750 Hamsiköy-Maçka-Trabzon, Turkey - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|270px|Landscape near Hamsiköy, Maçka district]] [[File:Village near Çaykara, Trabzon.jpg|thumb|270px|The summer hamlet Ligoras ('Wolf Mountain'), Çaykara district]] [[File:Ovit Plato.jpg|thumb|270px|Ovit Plateau, Ikizdere, Rize province]] Trabzon is well known in Turkey as a destination for nature tourism and outdoor sports activities. The mountainous districts in Trabzon and neighboring Giresun and Rize provinces offer plenty options, but most areas are hardly developed for (international) tourism. However, this is also what makes the region attractive to adventurous travelers and Turkish families fleeing the hordes of tourists in Istanbul or the west coast. The beauty of Trabzon really lies in its alpine nature and remote, independent village life; Waking up in a traditional timber shed by the sound of cowbells and the scent of morning dew drawing the endless flower fields into your bed. Having fresh milk, corn bread, eggs and cooked green vegetables and spring water straight from the tap. To have this experience, you have to leave Trabzon, leave Uzungöl, and move higher up the mountain slopes, to the villages with their typical architecture and beautifully ornamented timber mosques, or even higher, where there are 'open air mosques', similar to the very first mosques in the world. Even though the people here are devout, they are not conservative in the traditional sense. It is normal for men and woman to mingle, make jokes, etc. Sufism has had a strong influence on these remote districts, and many people still grow up speaking minority languages like Romeyka Greek, Laz or Hemsin Armenian. As the region has grown in popularity amongst foreign tourists during the past two decades, the amount of trash left behind in nature has likewise increased. If you are planning to spend time in the mountains, you could consider taking extra waste bags with you. ====Kervan Yolu (Caravan Road)==== One of the historic routes connecting Trabzon to Persia across the Pontic Mountains was the caravan road from Sürmene to Bayburt. Multiple inns, castles, mosques and churches line the road. As it climbs up the mountains you pass scenic villages and landscapes. The area is popular with bird watchers and nature photographers, as it is one of the most important routes for migratory birds in Turkey. The road also takes you to Mount Madur (Theches in antiquity), where Xenophon and the 10,000 first spotted the sea and shouted "Thálatta! Thálatta!", 2400 years ago. The local tourism board is promoting the route for eco-tourism. ====Hiking & mountain biking==== The traditional rural life in Trabzon province revolves around transhumant seasonal migrations with cattle. Even before the summer starts villagers head up from the agrarian settlements in the bottom of the valleys to the summer pastures above the tree line, which are called 'Yayla'. There are many hamlets on the yayla's from which one can make hikes through the surrounding alpine landscape. The higher parts of the province are popular with bird watchers and have a rich flora. Mountain biking along the relatively flat, connected pastures, is fun and doable. You will see a lot of Turkish tourists on their mountain bikes. Mountain bikes will not be available for rent in most rural villages, so the best option would be to rent them in Trabzon or Uzungöl. Some better known yayla's in Trabzon province are (from west to east): *{{marker|type=around|name=Sisdağı Yaylası|lat=40.8833483|long=39.0912452|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Kadıralak Yaylası|lat=40.8895576|long=39.3209982|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Haçka Yaylası|lat=40.8309291|long=39.41709|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Kayabaşı Yaylası|lat=40.8373294|long=39.4594041|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Hidirnebi Yaylası|lat=40.9615|long=39.4226|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Hamsiköy Yaylası|lat=40.6393602|long=39.4827145|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Çakırgöl Yaylası|lat=40.5641026|long=39.707493|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Harmantepe Yaylası|lat=40.7118707|long=40.0848447|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Sultan Murat Yaylası|lat=40.6435|long=40.1507|content=}} ====Trekking & bikepacking==== The densely forested mountain slopes and vast plains above the tree lines of Trabzon province are ideal for multi-day trekking adventures. However, for most districts there are no maps available in print or online. The exception is Çaykara district, which is the most detailed area of Turkey on OpenStreetMap. Incidentally this is one of the most densely settled valleys along the Black Sea coast, which means you will never be farther than a few kilometers from the nearest village. Some villages have small hotels or home-stays, especially near Uzungöl lake, but you are always free to camp in the wild. In some villages you can also rent a traditional chalet or herder's shack on the yayla. Expect to be invited for tea in every village, especially if you have children with you. The most important languages for communication in the villages are Turkish and Greek, but especially during the summer you might also find people that speak German, English, Arabic, Dutch or Russian. The highest peaks of the Pontic Mountains in Trabzon province lie in the southeast of Çaykara district near {{marker|type=around|name=Haldizen|lat=40.5464|long=40.4133}}, and reach to just over 3&nbsp;km. This area is also known as Yedigöller, referring to the 'Seven Lakes' that lie between the mountaintops (not to be confused with the national park bearing the same name in the western province Bolu). It is possible to trek from Haldizen in Çaykara to {{marker|type=around|name=Anzer|lat=40.5831|long=40.5152}} yayla and {{marker|type=around|name=Ovit|lat=40.6382|long=40.7643}} plateau in Rize province, and then further eastwards to the Kackar mountains (the highest peaks of the Pontic Mountains). It is also possible to do a part of this route before returning to the coast via Ikizdere. Along the way you will pass small villages with traditional architecture. Especially the village of Çamlık - downstream from Ovit - has maintained the tradition of timber construction. These are multi-day hikes. However, most mountaineering enthusiasts instead go directly to the Kackar mountains in next-door Rize province. Kate Clow popularized this area through her book, which includes detailed routes with coordinates. Because dense fog can obscure a clear day within a few minutes in these mountainous areas, it is ill-advised to wander around alone or without GPS. Brown bears, wolves and other wild animals can be found in the forests. It is legal to set up camp in the wild, but be sure not to leave any trash. ====Rafting==== Fırtına valley in upper Hemsin district of Rize province is ideal for rafting in Fırtına river, with its many centuries old arch bridges. ==Buy== As an important trade node, Trabzon also developed its own refined export produce. The area is rich in mineral deposits and it is thought that even in its early years as a Greek colony, part of its exports to the Agean were valuable metals. The ultra-fine handwoven gold and silver bracelets of Trabzon are a popular wedding gift throughout the country. Other local trades that still survive in the market quarter are copper-smiths and leather-workers. An exceptional souvenir would be a Kemençe (Pontian Lyra), the national instrument of Trabzon. A half-decent playable Kemençe violin will cost at least 1300 TL (Feb. 2022). There are also clock and keyring (chain) versions. For those heading to Iran or the Caucasus by bike, Trabzon is a good stop for maintenance, or to find supplies at one of the bike shops or outdoor supply stores. It will likely be many hundreds of kilometers before you have the opportunity to repair or restock. Alternatively, you might also find supplies at one of the many hunting or fishing shops of Trabzon. *{{buy | name=Market Quarter (Pazar)| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0071 | long=39.7255| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=To get to the bazaar from central Meydan, walk down pedestrianized Kunduracılar street to the northwest. The hand-woven gold and silver bracelets of Trabzon are world renowned. You can find the jewellery stores in the market quarter. Most of work occurs indoors. The sound of copper-smiths can still be heard. }} *{{buy | name=Uzun Sokak | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0051 | long=39.7286| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Trabzon's main pedestrian shopping street. This street is lined with many monumental buildings, most in the local Neoclassical style. }} * {{buy | name=Forum shopping mall| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.9995 | long=39.7601 | directions=near Atatürk Airport | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A modern shopping mall offering a similar experience to large shopping malls around the globe. }} * {{buy | name=Cevahir Outlet shopping mall| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.9672 | long=39.8381 | directions=near Novotel, in Yomra town | phone= | hours= | price=| content= }} * {{buy | name=Varlıbaş AVM | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/VarlibasAVM/ | email= | address=Gülbahar Hatun Mahallesi Atapark Karşısı Merkez | lat=41.0051 | long=39.7161 | directions= | phone=+90 462 223 60 00 | tollfree= | hours=10:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2015-07-25 | content=A shopping mall just west of the walled old town (to the north of Atapark). }} * {{buy | name=Russian Bazaar | alt=Rus Pazarı | url= | email= | address=| lat=41.0049 | long=39.7337 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The 'Russian Bazaar' is a street that runs down from Şht. İbrahim Karaoğlanoğlu street, to the east of Meydan square. You might be able to find cheap fake brands. For a more authentic bazaar experience, go to the market quarter. }} ==Eat== [[File:Hamsi EL.JPG|thumb|250px|Hamsi balik]] [[File:The Arsenal.jpg|thumb|250px|The former arsenal now houses a restaurant]] ===Local cuisine=== Typical ingredients for a Black Sea meal differ greatly from those of Anatolia. '''Vakfikebir ekmegi''' is the local sourdough bread similar to Italian Pane Casareccio. It is baked in a stone oven and can weigh up to 7&nbsp;kg. Because the Black Sea coast is too moist for the cereals that grow so abundantly in the rest of Anatolia, the main grain variety used in rural communities surrounding Trabzon is maize. Thus cornbread is also a popular dish. '''Hamsi''' (''Anchovies'') are a main staple for the region. They are typically fried and eaten whole. Fishermen from Trabzon catch about one-fifth of the Turkish total. There is even an ''Anchovies bread'' ('''Hamsikoli'''). The Black Sea region grows 70% of the worlds hazelnut production, and they are also often used in dishes. Some fruits that are grown in the region are cherries, persimmon and kiwi fruit. The Black Sea cuisine is heavy on stews and soups of vegetables and beans. It also includes many dairy dishes such as '''Kuymak/Muhlama''', fresh cow milk and '''Ayran''', and different types of cheeses. The '''pide''' (pizza) and '''köfte''' (meatballs) of Trabzon are famous in Turkey for their distinctive taste. Trabzon pide is a kind of pizza with cheese and eggs, similar to Adjarian Khachapuri, but there are many varieties. Many places sell these typical dishes, a cheap but good example near the city center is {{marker|type=eat|name=[http://www.cardakpide.com/index_en.html "Cardak Pide Salonu"]|lat=41.00533|long=39.73004}}. ===Eating out=== There are a few restaurants at the northern side of Meydan square on the street "İskele Cd.". Most menus revolve around meat or fish dishes. Fast-food stores and kebab shops can be found at the western end of the square. If you are fond of pastries, sweets and ice-cream, there are many places along Uzun Sokak selling baklava, helva and dondurma. The most famous pastry store is '''[https://betonhelva.com.tr/ Beton Helva]''', where they combine helva and ice cream. Most food in Trabzon is cooked to a high hygienic standard, and additionally most restaurants give you free hand wipes to clean your hands before and after eating food. ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Onur Midye & Balık & Kokoreç | alt= | url= | email= | address=Devlet Sahil Yolu Cd | lat=41.0051944 | long=39.7274895 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=A seafood restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Sebnem Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= Kemerkaya, Uzun Sok. Çinili Çarşı D:38 | lat=41.0053174 | long= 39.7279009| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Cemilusta | alt= | url= | email= | address=İskenderpaşa, Belediye Caddesi., Atatürk Alanı No:6 | lat=41.0056463 | long=39.7315896 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Popular restaurant at the Meydan square. }} * {{eat | name=Sofia Garden | alt= | url=https://sofiagarden.dijital.menu/ | email= | address=Zübeyde Hanım Cd 12 | lat= | long= | directions=100 m west of Hagia Sophia | phone=+90 462 223 1313 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:30-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Good menu selection and quality. }} * {{eat | name=Kalender Lokanta ve Kafe | alt=Kalender | lat=41.00458 | long=39.72701 | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Cozy cafe/restaurant just south of Trabzon Museum. }} * {{eat | name=Kulüp Bahçe Kafe | alt=Kulüp Garden Cafe | lat=41.0049 | long=39.7244 | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Small stylish garden restaurant with diverse day menu and live music. At no.7 Özüdoğru, a dead-end side street of Uzun Sokak. }} * {{eat | name=Tarihi Kalkanoğlu Pilavı | alt=| lat=41.0083 | long=39.7211 | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=A historic restaurant established in 1856 serving traditional dishes around pilav. }} * {{eat | name=Trabzon Architects Union Garden Cafe | alt=Trabzon Mimarlar Odası Bahce Cafe | lat=41.0073 | long=39.7280 | lastedit= | content=A relaxed green garden cafe with a small menu. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Bordo Mavi | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0062 | long=39.7273| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Relaxed garden restaurant of Trabzonspor fanclub, next to the Trabzonspor Museum. One of the only restaurants in the city center that servers wine and spirits. }} ===Akçaabat specialties and restaurants=== Akçaabat, the historic village Platana, some 10&nbsp;km west of the city, is renowned throughout Turkey for its special kind of meatballs, called '''Akcaabat koftesi'''. Made with ground meat, garlic and bread it's very delicious with '''ayran'''(yogurt mixed with water) and '''piyaz''' (beans, lettuce). There are plentiful quality restaurants in Akcaabat town such as {{marker|type=eat|name=[https://www.nihatusta.com/ Nihat Usta]|lat=41.06347|long=39.52023}}, {{marker|type=eat|name=Keyvan|lat=41.05692|long=39.52857}}, {{marker|type=eat|name=[https://cemilusta.com.tr/ Cemil Usta]|lat=41.02300|long=39.57228}}, {{marker|type=eat|name=Korfez Restaurant|lat=41.02867|long=39.56326}}. You can have a walk and drink tea after dinner in Akcaabat Fisher Port. You can also try "kiymali" which is made with meat and served with butter. Don't forget to visit the historic neighborhood with its dozens of timber mansions when you are in Akçaabat. == Drink == * '''Water''' from the tap is safe to drink but heavily chlorinated, you may prefer bottles. Few restaurants serve alcohol in the city center. Among them (listed above) are Bordo Mavi and {{marker|type=drink|name=Trabzon Şehir Kulübü Restaurant|lat=41.00524|long=39.72488}} in Nemlioğlu Cemal Sokak (sidestreet of Uzun Sokak). Other options are a bit further from the center, between Trabzon and Akcaabat, such as {{marker|type=drink|name=[https://www.tirvanarestaurant.com/ Tirvana]|lat=41.01261|long=39.61301}} or {{marker|type=drink|name=Marina|lat=41.02389|long=39.56947}}. A lot of the more traditional restaurants offer non-alcoholic cocktails. Luckily, because Trabzon is a student city, there is still quite a broad choice between music venues compared to other Turkish cities. ===Coffee & tea=== [[Image:Trabzon2 RIMG0860.JPG|thumb|right|270px|View from Boztepe tea garden.]] They are hidden within the shopping complex Canbakkal İş Merkezi, a few blocks to the west of Atatürk Alani square. '''[https://www.kahvedunyasi.com/ Kahve Durağı]''' and {{marker|type=drink|name=Edward's Coffee|lat=41.00466|long=39.72844}} offer many kinds of coffee and cakes. Cinema-themed {{marker|type=drink|name=sineK|lat=41.00465|long=39.72804}}, next to Royal Cinema also offers western (and Turkish) coffee and tea. It is a kind of hip place where young Trabzonites come to play games after going to the movies. You might need to make reservations (like for most popular or trendy restaurants in the city). {{marker|type=drink|name=Time's Coffee Restaurant|lat=41.00582|long=39.72888}} on Kahramanmaraş Cad. offers coffee and more with a rooftop view of the city. It is on the 7th floor of the Silk Road Business Center. A hot glass of locally grown black tea is served at the many tea gardens throughout the city, most of them located in public parks. The gardens with the best views can be found on Boztepe hill, just southeast of the city center. Other notable tea gardens are located in Fatih park just south of meydan square, and at Atapark just west of the historic walled city. As of Feb 2022, the Ganita tea garden, with its seaside location and view of the old Genoese fort, is closed due to renovation work. * {{drink | name=Boztepe tea garden | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.9971 | long=39.7293| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Watch the sun set from the hill overlooking the city. }} * {{drink | name=Ganita tea garden | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.008020 | long=39.733815| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The tea garden right next to the old Genoese fortress Leonkastron. }} ===Nightlife=== * {{drink | name=BARikat rock bar | url= | email= | address=Ahmet Selim Teymur Sokak Nr. 1 | lat=41.0057 | long=39.7294| directions=one block west of Meydan square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Rooftop rock bar. | lastedit=2021-05-04 }} * {{drink | name=Sahne bar| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0052 | long=39.7248| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Live music bar. }} * {{drink | name=Şişman Efes Pub | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0054 | long=39.7297| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Centrally located, one part is men-only, the other is mixed. }} * {{drink | name=Altmış Bir'a (61'a)| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0048 | long=39.7305| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Football pub of Trabzonspor fans. }} * {{drink | name=Biravoo Pub| url= | email= | address= | lat= 41.00565 | long=39.73182| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=No frills interior, but unlike most bars in Trabzon it has a kitchen. }} == Sleep == === Budget === The cheapest hotels are down from Atatürk Square towards the port, but many are brothels. Business is conducted in an orderly manner and the area is safe. * {{sleep | name=Şanlı Otel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Terminal Sk 4 | lat= | long= | directions=100 m south of Otogar | phone=+90 462 332 0777 | tollfree= | checkin=1 | checkout= | price=B&B double 2000 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=A cheap and convenient hotel very close to the Otogar. }} * '''[https://www.hotelhoron.com/ Hotel Horon]''' is central at Sıramağazalar Cd 125. === Mid-range === * {{sleep | name=Hotel Nur | alt= | url= | email= | address=Doktor Kemal Dursun Sk 15 | lat=41.0048 | long=39.7324 | directions= | phone=+90 462 323 0445 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 2000 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Simple downtown place. }} * {{sleep | name=Ural Otel | alt= | url=https://www.otelural.com/ | email= | address=Güzelhisar Cd 1 | lat=41.0059 | long=39.7335 | directions= | phone=+90 462 321 1414 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Basic place near the ferry port. }} * '''Otel Efe''' is opposite Ural Otel at Güzelhisar Cd 6, similar quality. * {{sleep | name=Usta Park Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Şehit İbrahim Karaoğlanoğlu Cd 6 / 1 | lat=41.0056 | long=39.7328 | directions= | phone=+90 462 326 5700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 2500 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Clean and central, small rooms. }} * '''[https://www.sumelaparkotel.com/ Sumela Park Hotel]''' is at Şehit İbrahim Karaoğlanoğlu Cd 14, next to Usta Park. Mixed reviews. === Splurge === * {{sleep | name=DoubleTree by Hilton Trabzon | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/tzxgidi-doubletree-trabzon/ | email= | address=Barbaros Hayrettin Paşa Cd 43 | lat=41.0118 | long=39.6149 | directions= | phone=+90 462 455 0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 4000 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Good value hotel on the coast on the highway to Akçaabat. }} * {{sleep | name=Ramada Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/tr-tr/ramada/trabzon-turkiye/ramada-plaza-trabzon/overview | email= | address=Rize Cd 23 | lat=40.9856 | long=39.8172 | directions= | phone=+90 462 335 3030 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 5000 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Smart hotel 3 km east of the airport. Spacious, with restaurants and bars. }} * '''[https://all.accor.com/hotel/B8D9/index.id.shtml Movenpick]''' is next to the Ramada at 22 Rize Cd. * {{sleep | name=Novotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6710/index.en.shtml | email= | address=Dunya Ticaret Sk 9, Yomra | lat=40.9692 | long=39.8392 | directions= | phone=+90 462 455 9000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 5000 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Good beachfront location and comfy rooms, but many adverse reports for reception and service. }} * {{sleep | name=Zorlu Grand Otel | alt= | url=https://www.zorlugrand.com/ | email= | address=Kahramanmaraş Cd 9 | lat=41.0056 | long=39.7287 | directions= | phone=+90 462 326 8400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 5000 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Very central, good service and comfort, but the a/c can't cope with hot weather. }} * {{sleep | name=Inan Kardesler Hotel | alt= | url=https://inankardeslerotel.com/en/ | email=inan@inankardeslerotel.com | address=Uzungöl Mah. Fatih Cad. No:25/A | lat=40.618722 | long=40.303837 | directions= | phone=+90 4626566260 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2020-05-02 | content= }} == Learn == * [https://uek.ktu.edu.tr/ Karadeniz Technical University] (''Karadeniz Teknik Üniversitesi'' or KTÜ), founded in 1955, has 32,000 students and 2200 teaching staff. Most teaching is in Turkish but a few courses are English. The main campus is Kanuni near the airport, with a dozen others across the province. * [https://avrasya.edu.tr/ Avrasya University] is a private university founded in 2010, with 3 city campuses. ==Stay healthy== In general the quality of food and drinks in Trabzon is fine, but tap water in the city is heavily chlorinated. In the mountain villages tap water has been connected to local springs and is absolutely safe to drink. Fresh dairy produce are delicious but if you are unaccustomed to this, it could upset your stomach. Very few local dishes contain a large amount of oil (or are wrongly prepared that way), but butter and cheese are a staple. Most of the vegetables and fruit that you can buy at markets in the province are grown locally in an organic way, so they are perfectly safe to eat. If you see wild fruit next to the road while on a hiking or biking trip, it is placed there for travellers to enjoy. But be aware of the local poisonous 'mad honey' (''deli bal''), which is derived by bees from the flowers of poisonous Rhododendron species. This hallucinogenic honey is legally sold in Turkey and can be acquired from roadside stalls. Most beekeepers are, however, unlikely to sell it to tourists. ==Stay safe== Trabzon is generally a safe city for visitors and has low crime rates. As the city is not touristic, you will not be bothered by pushers of restaurants or shop owners in the bazaar quarter. During the 1990s and early 2000s there was a problem with street prostitution around the harbor due to the collapse of the economies of the neighboring ex-Soviet states. This problem has mostly been tackled, and the city's nightlife is now also safe and comfortable for women. The mountainous hinterland of the city is also safe, but rather sparsely populated. It is not recommended to travel in these remote areas alone, but if well prepared it is possible to do a bicycle camping trip by yourself. If you plan on hiking in the forested mountains, be sure to read about how to [[Dangerous animals#Dealing with bear encounters|deal with bear encounters]]. == Connect == Trabzon and its approach roads have 4G from all Turkish carriers. As of July 2025, 5G has not rolled out in Turkey. ==Cope== ===Police=== * {{listing | name=Taksim police station|alt=Taksim Polis Merkezi Amirliği |lat=41.0038 | long=39.7310|content=The police station just south of Meydan square}} ===Hospitals=== * {{listing | name=Imperial Hospital|alt=İmperial Hastanesi|lat=41.0083 | long=39.7276|lastedit=2022-03-26|content= Hospital in the center of the city. PCR-Test available for 350TRY (March 2022)}} * {{listing | name=Trabzon Research and Education Hospital|alt=Trabzon Kanuni Eğitim Ve Araştırma Hastanesi|lat=41.0055|long=39.7071|content= Hospital in the western part of the city.}} * {{listing | name=Adnan Menderes University Research and Application Hospital|lat=40.9998|long=39.7396|content=Hospital in the eastern part of the city.}} * {{listing | name=Farabi Hospital|alt=Farabi hastanesi|lat=40.9944|long=39.7661|content=University Hospital at Karadeniz Technical University near the Airport.}} * {{listing | name=Fatih State Hospital|alt=Fatih Devlet Hastanesi|lat=41.0012|long=39.7015|content=State hospital in the west of the city.}} ===Consulates=== * {{flag|Georgia}} {{listing | name=Consulate of Georgia| alt= | url= | email= | address=Pertevpasa sokak 10 |lat=41.0038 | long=39.7193 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=EU citizens don't require a visa for Georgia or can get it at the border. Thus it is not necessary for them to visit this consulate. }} * {{flag|Iran}} {{listing | name=Consulate of Iran | alt=İran Konsolosluğu | url= | email= | address=Taksim Caddesi, Kızıltoprak Sokak 3 | lat=41.0021 | long=39.7313 | directions=just south of the central square| phone=+90 462 3267651 | fax=+90 462 3267652 | hours= | price=| content=Many travellers (especially Europeans) report of getting a visa easily and quickly (i.e. in a single day) here. As of 2013, the consulate will issue visas to nationals of Anglophone countries (including Great Britain, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Canada), but only with a reference number from an approved travel agent. }} * {{flag|Russia}} {{listing | name=Consulate of Russia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Refik Cesur Caddesi 6 | lat=41.004 | long=39.71989 | directions=in an imposing building made of volcanic rock in the old Ortahisar district | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Although getting a Russian visa for EU citizens usually require several weeks to process, in this embassy a visa can be obtained within a few hours. }} ==Go next== ===In Turkey=== * [[Rize]] — capital of the province to the east of Trabzon in the heart of Turkey's tea growing region. The deeply pious city has some touristic attractions, such as a historic neighborhood and a castle, but mainly functions as a stop-over for those heading to the Firtina-valley and [[Ayder]] - a village near the Kaçkar peaks, the highest point of the Pontic Mountains. The local people are known for the quality of their dairy produce, honey, and variety of pastries, which you may find at stores in the city, and at other major towns in the province. * [[Giresun]] (W 175&nbsp;km) — capital of the province to the west of Trabzon, standing out with its lively nightlife; trips to a nearby island with lush vegetation can be arranged from here. The mountains behind Giresun don't reach as high as those in Trabzon province, but offer much of the same natural and cultural beauty - without foreign tourists. * [[Gümüşhane]] - via the Zigana Pass and [[Torul]]. Take the same path as many famous travellers before you like Xenophon and Marco Polo and cross the Zigana Pass to the south of the city. * [[Kars]] — via [[Bayburt]] and [[Artvin]]. Cross the Pontic Mountains to the mountain fortress city of Bayburt, visit the hidden Georgian churches along the Çoruh river towards Artvin and end up in Kars - a good jump point to the nearby ancient ruins of [[Ani]]. From Kars you can either head to Georgia or south-eastern Turkey. During this trip you will see very different landscapes. * [[Tonya]] to escape the heat and visit the surrounding green mountains. ===Abroad=== * [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]] via [[Batumi]]. Follow thousands of Trabzonites to their favorite weekend destination, the Georgian beach holiday resort town Batumi, with its clubs and casinos, 3 hours drive east. * [[Iran]] via [[Doğubeyazıt]] - Historically Iran was reached by Europeans through the Trabzon-Tabriz route via the Zigana-pass south of the city. This is still the main route connecting the city to Anatolia. {{routebox | image1=D010-TR.svg | image1a=E70-TR.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Samsun]] | minorl1=[[Giresun]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Rize]] | minorr1=[[Sürmene]] | image2=E97-TR.svg | imagesize2=40 | directionl2=N | majorl2=Merges with [[File:D010-TR.svg|35px]][[File:E70-TR.svg|35px]] (E) | minorl2= | directionr2=S | majorr2=[[Erzurum]] | minorr2=[[Torul]] }} {{guidecity}} {{geo|41.0000|39.7333}} {{isPartOf|Eastern Karadeniz}} 9ap22ah9gwgt6fcy49x3pdzk6w7qswx 5091233 5091230 2025-07-11T07:31:52Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Monasteries */ Updated listing for Girls Monastery - practical info 5091233 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} [[File:Trabzon,AtatürkAlani.jpg|thumb|300px|Atatürk Alani, the street encircling Meydan park in downtown Trabzon]] '''Trabzon''' (formerly '''Trebizond''') is the largest city in the [[Eastern Karadeniz]] region of [[Turkey]]. Trabzon functioned as an independent state or empire during several periods in its long history, ruling over a vast area from Sinop in the west to Georgia in the east, even including territory in [[Crimea]]. Within Turkey Trabzon is known as a hospitable, energetic, traditional and patriotic city, which is culturally somewhat distinct from the rest of the country. ==Understand== ===History=== Trabzon was founded around 756 BC by [[Ancient Greece|Greek colonists]] from [[Sinop]]e, who hailed from [[Miletus]]. They called their new colony ''Trapezous'', ancient Greek for "table", due to the topography of the central hill, squeezed between two rivers with steep cliffs on both sides. While the dominant language and culture in the city remained Greek, the colony attracted many settlers from the surrounding Caucasian, Anatolian and Persian peoples, creating a unique regional cultural blend that still leaves its traces today. Trabzon has been a major trade centre through history — for long, it was a main port-of-call on one of the main routes between Europe and [[Persian Empire|Persia]] and beyond, which involved taking a ship across the Black Sea from [[Romania]] (and later [[Istanbul|Constantinople]]). After the [[Roman Empire|Roman conquest]], the city was given a new harbor and a paved road towards Persia. The road fostered trade and cultural exchange, and was used for attacks on the Persian Empire during the Roman and Byzantine periods. After a Turkmen attack on the city was repelled by a local force in the 1080s, the city broke relations with the Byzantine Empire and acted as an independent state. The [[Mongol Empire|Mongol]] sack of [[Baghdad]] diverted more trade caravans from [[Tabriz]] to Trabzon and the city grew in wealth from the taxes it could impose on trade between Europe, Persia and [[Chinese Empire|China]]. The city traded intensely with [[Genoa]] and to a lesser extent with [[Venice]] during the [[Medieval and Renaissance Italy|early renaissance]], with some cultural influences going both ways. During this era, Trabzon was visited by many travellers, [[On the trail of Marco Polo|Marco Polo]] being among them. In medieval times, the city served as the capital of the '''Empire of Trebizond''' ruled by the Komnenos family, which also provided several emperors to the Byzantine throne in Constantinople. The longest surviving rump Byzantine state, Trabzon was captured by the [[Ottoman Empire|Ottoman Turks]] in 1461, almost a decade after the fall of Constantinople. During the 18th and 19th centuries Europeans wishing to explore the [[Caucasus]], [[Iran]] and the eastern domains of the Ottoman Empire used Trabzon as a point of departure or return. [[World War I]] left deep scars in the city; it lost many of its young male Muslims at the battle of Sarıkamış in 1914, its entire Armenian population in the genocide of 1915, and most of its Greek inhabitants during the population exchange of 1923. Closed borders with the [[Soviet Union]] meant that the city could only recover culturally and economically in the 1970s. Trabzon as of 2022 is a city under reconstruction, but offers many historical, cultural and natural sights. The city constitutes the largest urban metropolitan region of [[Black Sea Turkey|Turkey's Black Sea coast]], with nearly 1 million inhabitants. Trabzon functions as the cultural capital of the Turkish Black Sea coast, and its inhabitants are very proud of their city and region. {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = 10.0 | febhigh = 10.0 | marhigh = 10.0 | aprhigh = 15 | mayhigh = 18.3 | junhigh = 22.0 | julhigh = 24.0 | aughigh = 24.0 | sephigh = 22.0 | octhigh = 19.4 | novhigh = 15.6 | dechigh = 12.0 | janlow = 3.9 | feblow = 3.0 | marlow = 5.0 | aprlow = 8.4 | maylow = 13.0 | junlow = 16.0 | jullow = 19.0 | auglow = 19.0 | seplow = 16.0 | octlow = 12.5 | novlow = 9.0 | declow = 5.0 | janprecip = 77.4 | febprecip = 63.8 | marprecip = 63.8 | aprprecip = 56.0 | mayprecip = 51.8 | junprecip = 50.0 | julprecip = 42.0 | augprecip = 48.8 | sepprecip = 76.6 | octprecip = 113.0 | novprecip = 99.1 | decprecip = 81.6 |jansnow =20.6|febsnow =18.2|marsnow =4.2|aprsnow =1.8|maysnow =0|junsnow =0|julsnow =0|augsnow =0|sepsnow =0|octsnow =0|novsnow =3.3| decsnow =5.8 | description = }} Trabzon has just returned on the tourist radar, and the city is still investing in tourist infrastructure. Like a few other Turkish cities such as [[Istanbul]] and [[Izmir]], Trabzon is culturally located somewhat in between Anatolia and Eastern Europe. In the case of Trabzon this is due to the Pontic Mountains, which used to form a cultural barrier. Coming from the Anatolian heartland, it feels like one is entering Europe, while coming from the Caucasus, Trabzon comes across as the first city with [[Middle East|Middle-Eastern]] influences. Tourists who visit Trabzon come mostly from a few countries: nearby [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]], [[Russia]], the [[Netherlands]], [[Germany]], [[Greece]], [[Azerbaijan]], [[New Zealand]] and the [[Persian Gulf|Gulf states]]. ===Climate=== Trabzon experiences a mild, humid, and very cloudy oceanic climate, like most of the Black Sea coastline. However, Trabzon's sheltered location allows it to stay warmer and drier than most of the regions that surround it, especially in winter. This causes the city to show some characteristics of a humid subtropical climate. Summers in Trabzon are warm, humid, and often mostly cloudy. Rain is frequent, but often light and brief, owing — as usual — to its sheltered location. This is generally a good time to visit, although high humidity does sometimes become a problem, especially at night. Winters are cool with long stretches of northerly winds bringing temperatures down to slightly above the freezing mark, and rainy, or less frequently, snowy weather. These periods are bridged by mild to warm, clear days, caused by dry, southerly winds descending the mountains. This can raise the temperature to above 18-19&nbsp;°C, creating almost summerlike conditions. Spring and fall are both mild, but they differ in rainfall. Fall is the rainiest time of year, as Western European windstorms, some of which restrengthen in the Black Sea after hitting Europe, are most common during this time. Spring, on the other hand, is relatively dry and often the time with the most sunshine, even though one really shouldn't expect to see sunny skies at any time of the year when traveling to this region of Turkey. ===Talk=== The Eastern Black Sea Region has its own dialect of [[Turkish phrasebook|Turkish]], more influenced by Greek and Persian than the Anatolian varieties. Because of the isolation of the coastal cities, the dialect retained archaic grammar and vocabulary that has been lost in other Turkish dialects. The most striking example is the restricted use of vowel harmony, one of the building blocks of all Turkic languages. This means that the local dialect can sound funny to speakers of 'standard' Anatolian or Istanbul Turkish. Much Turkish low-brow humor revolves around characters from Trabzon, but the locals don't appreciate the jokes that are made at their expense. The western districts of Trabzon province form a gradual transition area to Anatolian Turkish. This Turkish will be more easily understood for tourists who have studied the language. Next to old varieties of Turkish, there are some minority languages that are spoken, mostly in the rural communities to the southwest and southeast of the city. ''Romeyka'' is the most archaic Greek language spoken in current times; its speakers are concentrated in the Of-valley along the Solaklı River in the villages on the mountain slopes in Çaykara district and surrounding areas. There are also small pockets of Greek-speaking Muslim villages in [[Tonya]] and [[Sürmene]] districts. Most locals don't like being called Greek; instead they use the terms ''Rum'' or ''Romioi'' (meaning Roman/Byzantine) to describe their heritage. However, they are very proud of their language, and they are happy to use it to converse with Greek-speaking tourists. Speakers of Modern Greek are generally unable to understand the local dialect, while people that have an understanding of Pontic or Cypriot Greek, or those who have an advanced education in Classical Greek, are able to engage with locals in basic conversations. It is still possible to find Pontic Greek speakers in Trabzon city, and tourists should not be afraid to openly speak [[Greek phrasebook|Greek]] in public spaces. It is more likely, however, to find a local who is fluent in German, Dutch, French or Russian. English language courses are immensely popular among the young generation, but it is not yet as commonly spoken as in neighboring Georgia. There are small groups of Georgians and Ukrainians in the city. One of the most remarkable languages in the Trabzon region, ''kuş dili'', is whistled in several villages straddling the border of Trabzon and [[Giresun]] provinces. It is one of a few whistled languages in the world, and it is kept alive through a yearly festival in Kuşköy (Bird village). ===Read=== Trabzon has long been touted as the "city of tale in the East". Its historical prominence, intellectual independence and trade relations with Italian city-states were elements that earned Trebizond a legendary mythical place in European literature until well after its economic and cultural peak when it functioned as the capital of the Empire of Trebizond in the 14th and 15th century (both Don Quixote and Picrochole wished to possess the city). The most renowned work of modern literature that describes the city is Rose Macaulay's ''The Towers of Trebizond''. Travellers interested in classical history might want to read Xenophon's ''Anabasis'', in which Trabzon enters as the first [[Ancient Greece|Greek]] city the soldiers encounter after their retreat from Persia. For those interested in the Renaissance trade relations of Trabzon, there is ''The Spring of the Ram'', the second book from the series ''The House of Niccolò'' by Dorothy Dunnett, and ''The Burnished Blade'' by Lawrence Schoonover. Popular Turkish novels which feature the city are ''Pomegranate Tree'' by Nazan Bekiroglu and ''Aleko of Trebizond'' by Kadri Özcan. ''L'immortelle de Trébizonde'', a French novel about the Armenian genocide by Paule Henry Bordeaux, has been republished, and ''Anyush'' is a publication by Martine Madden. Those attempting a round trip along the Black Sea could read ''Kéraban the Inflexible'' by Jules Verne; Turkish students recreating the journey concluded the trip was even more difficult a century later (virtually impossible since 2014). Those heading to Georgia might want to read about the myths of the '''Argonauts''' and their quest for the '''Golden Fleece'''; those heading west, to [[Samsun]] or [[Sinop]], about the '''Amazons'''. === View === The Black Sea region, and Trabzon in particular, has an important place in the history of Turkish theater, photography and cinema. The Pontic Greeks of Trebizond were among the first groups in the Ottoman Empire to establish theaters, musical venues and photography studios as early as the 1870s, and they were soon followed by the Armenian and Turkish population of the province. The long history of the city - and that of the Pontus in general - had already led to the creation of musicals and operas in Western Europe, such as Offenbach's ''The Princess of Trebizond'', which is still a popular play for theater groups around the world. The scenic pastoral environments surrounding the city, as well as the diverse local cultures and rich local folklore, has inspired many modern Turkish movie directors. Cinema from the region often addresses issues such as migration, isolation from modern society, dysfunctional or traumatized families, or mental health issues. Some notable films that have been recorded in the region are: ''Pandora's Box'' (about a woman suffering from Alzheimer) and ''Waiting for the Clouds'' (about an elderly Pontic Greek woman rediscovering her past) by Yeşim Ustaoğlu, ''Bal'' by Semih Kaplanoğlu (about a young boy in the mountains who has to learn to deal with grief), ''Cold of Kalandar'' by Mustafa Kara (about the struggle of a farmer hoping to strike gold during a strong winter), ''Zephyr'' by Belma Baş (about a youg girl who is abandoned by her mother), and ''Autumn'' by Özcan Alper (about the struggle of a former convict when he returns to his home soil). === Listen === Trabzon has its own musical culture, which stands apart from the rest of the country in rhythm, instrumentation and lyrical narratives, and has some Caucasian influences. Trabzon music is typically made to dance. Especially the 'Horon' circle dance has been a binding agent between the local people for millennia. The most popular topics of folk singers from Trabzon are melancholy for a lost childhood in the mountains, memories of a deceased friend or parent, or a doomed love affair (such as between a wealthy person and a peasant, or a Muslim and a Christian). Music from the region typically features prominently the local national instrument - the 'Kemençe' violin - and sometimes makes use of minority languages, such as Romeyka Greek or Laz. 'Karadenizli' (Black Sea) music is popular throughout the country, however, and local artists often collaborate with other Turkish artists, and musicians from the Pontic Greek diaspora in Greece. Some of the most popular artists from the region are Kazim Koyuncu, Volkan Konak, Apolas Lermi, Onur Atmaca, Ekin Uzunlar, and Adem Ekiz. ===Visitor information=== *{{listing | name=Tourist office | alt=Trabzon Turizm Bürosu | url=https://trabzon.ktb.gov.tr/?_dil=2 | email= | address= | lat=41.00519 | long=39.73157 | directions=one block to the east of Atatürk Alani square, down Camii Sk., just beyond Hotel Nur | phone=+90 462 3264760 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=For general tourist information. The staff speak English very well and provide a wealth of [http://www.trabzonkulturturizm.gov.tr/Eklenti/6793,trabzonkatalog-ingilizcepdf.pdf?0 information about Trabzon and its surroundings (pdf)]. Before doing anything in Trabzon, go to the tourist office. }} [[File:Grass cutting - Ot biçme 02.jpg|thumb|300px|Pontic Mountains at Pelitcik, Şalpazarı district]] == Get in == '''Not by train:''' Trabzon is the largest city in Turkey to entirely lack a railway, which it needs for its Black Sea freight. They've been talking about building one for over a century and look set to continue. '''Not by boat either:''' Black Sea ferries no longer sail here. A ferry from Sochi was supposed to start in 2025 but didn't. === By plane === [[File:Trabzon (TZX - LTCG) AN1966406.jpg | thumb | 300px | Trabzon Airport ]] {{go | name=Trabzon Airport | alt={{IATA|TZX}} | url=https://www.dhmi.gov.tr/Sayfalar/Havalimani/Trabzon/AnaSayfa.aspx | email=infotrabzon@dhmi.gov.tr | address= | lat=40.9951 | long=39.7897 | directions= | phone=+90 462 3280940 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1169859 | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=This has flights from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf, and Ercan in Northern Cyprus; few from Europe beyond occasionally from Germany. Domestic connections are excellent: hourly from Istanbul (IST and SAW) and at least daily from Ankara, Izmir and Adana. The airport has the usual facilities including car hire. Havaş shuttle bus runs downtown, otherwise walk to the coastal highway (westbound) for a dolmuş. }} === By road === D010 is the six-lane coastal highway. From Sarp on the border with Georgia takes 2½ hours and from Samsun takes 4½ hours. E97 is the inland highway, crossing the mountains to Gümüşhane and then east to Bayburt and Erzurum. D915 looks like a short-cut on the map, going inland from Of to Bayburt to join E97. It's scenic but scary, take it slow, and don't attempt it in winter. === By bus === Buses from Istanbul run several times a day and take 18 hours via [[Gebze]], [[Izmit]], [[Samsun]] and multiple Black Sea coast towns. Several continue to Batumi in Georgia. From [[Erzurum]] is 4 hours, ten per day; from Ankara they run hourly taking 12 hours. From [[Erzincan]] is 3 hr 30 min, from Adana 15 hr. Dolmuşes from [[Gümüşhane]] run hourly. One bus a day is from [[Batumi]], taking six hours via Sarp and Hopa. It has been known for the eastbound bus to give up at the border if the queue to cross is too long: walk across and pick up a dolmuş, see [[Batumi#Get in]]. Change there for Tbilisi and Baku. Bus operators include [https://www.metroturizm.com.tr/ Metro Turizm], Flixbus and [https://www.aliosmanulusoy.com/ Ulusoy]. {{marker | name=Otogar | type=go | lat=40.9966 | long=39.7523 }} the bus station is on Terminal Sk 3 km east of city centre. A free ''servis'' - shuttle bus - runs downtown. Otherwise walk north to the end of Terminal Sk to pick up a dolmuş on Devlet Karayolu Cd. == Get around == :: "Take my camel, dear", said my Aunt Dot, as she climbed down from this animal on her return from High Mass. ::: - ''The Towers of Trebizond'' (1956) by Rose Macaulay follows a group of conflicted dingbats on a journey from Istanbul ===On foot=== The center of Trabzon is walkable; most of its historical sights lie in an area of 1½ km by 500 m. This includes the area around central Meydan square in the east, the bazaar quarter in the center, and the historic walled city towards the west. If one is interested in taking in as many historical sights as possible, it is advisable to plan several walks around these different areas of the city. The historic city was built on a hill between two ravines (Zagnos to the west and Kuzgun to the east), thus there is a lot of height difference between neighbourhoods, and travellers should be prepared to climb up and down stairs and walk streets with steep inclinations. Car traffic has been limited through the historic neighborhoods, making it safer for pedestrians. Since the arrival of the coastal highway the city has been amputated from the sea. To alleviate this the city has started constructing a promenade along most of its 5&nbsp;km-long western coast. With few restaurants or other facilities, it has yet to regain its historic attractiveness. ===By minibus=== Notable locations outside the central zone are the Hagia Sophia to the west of the city and Boztepe tea garden overlooking the city towards the southeast. To get to these locations one best uses a minibus (dolmuş). There are dolmuş stops on '''Kahramanmaraş Street''' west off Meydan square. There is also a small minibus station just southeast of Meydan, under the viaduct. For transport towards one of the villages towards the east of Trabzon and in Rize province, there is again a different dolmus station along the coastal road. {{PoiMap2detail|41.0058|39.7307|18|M|Around Meydan <br /><small>(Mapnik layer is the most detailed)</small>}} * {{listing | type=go |name=Local minibus station|alt=Dolmuş gar|url=|email=|address=| lat=41.0043 | long=39.7315 |directions=to the south of central Meydan, under the viaduct|phone=| hours= | price=| content= Buses to neighborhoods of Trabzon and surrounding villages.}} * {{listing | type=go |name=Regional minibus station|alt=Dolmuş gar|url=|email=|address=|lat=41.0041 | long=39.7342 |directions=down the hill and to the east of central Meydan, west of the coastal road|phone=| hours= | price=| content= Buses to villages in Trabzon and Rize provinces.}} == See == {{Mapframe| 41.005 | 39.725 | height=400 | width=550 | zoom=14 }} ===Churches and mosques=== Trabzon has dozens of churches and mosques dating from the Byzantine period, the Empire of Trebizond and the Ottoman Empire. During the classical period the city at least had temples for Hermes (the god of trade), Apollo (sun), and multiple Mithraeum for the Persian-Greek god Mithras. A bronze statue of Hermes can be found in the basement of the Trabzon Museum. On the places of these temples, which were destroyed for the most part in the 3rd century, Christian chapels were built. The oldest surviving church is the 6th- or 7th-century Armenian church of St. Anna, which was built to the east of the Kuzgun (Tabakhane) valley because Armenians were not allowed to live inside the city walls. After the Ottoman conquest most churches within the walled city were converted into mosques. Many of these buildings retained some elements that hint at their Christian past. During the 18th and 19th centuries there was a boom in the construction of mosques and churches. Most of the historic churches and mosques of the city survived the first world war and the building frenzy of the 1970s onward. One of the most famous churches of the city however, the 19th-century Saint Gregory of Nyssa, which stood on the rocky outcrop at the former Genoese castle Leonkastron, overlooking both harbors of the city, was dynamited in 1930. ====Church buildings==== [[File:Hagia Sophia Trabzon.jpg | thumb | 300px | Hagia Sophia ]] [[File:Trabzon,citadel1.jpg|thumb|300px|The ancient city walls of Trabzon]] [[File:Khrysokephalos.jpg|thumb|300px|Fatih mosque, the former Panagia Khrysokephalos church]] [[file:Hagia Anna Trabzon.JPG|thumb|270px|St.Anna Church]] [[file:Hagios Eugenios Trabzon 2.JPG|thumb|270px|Yeni Cuma mosque, former Hagios Eugenios]] * {{see | name=Hagia Sophia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ayasofya Cd 60 | lat=41.0033 | long=39.6961 | directions=3 km west, ''dolmuş'' marked "Aya Sofya" | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hr | price=Free | wikipedia=Hagia Sophia, Trabzon | wikidata=Q1568666 | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=The city's top sight, a Byzantine church built in the 1250s, with beautiful frescoes, arches and friezes. It became a mosque in 2013 whereupon pre-Islamic features were covered up, but most of these were uncovered in 2020. The free-standing bell tower was added in 1427; nothing remains of the monastery. }} * {{see | name=St Anne's Church | alt=Küçük Ayvası Kilise | url= | email= | address=Mısırlıoğlı Ar 7 | lat=41.0061 | long=39.7233 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours | price=Free | wikipedia=Saint Anne Church, Trabzon | wikidata=Q15622502 | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Dinky little Greek Orthodox basilica from 6th / 7th century AD, one of the oldest buildings in the city. It fell out of use when the Greeks were deported and many frescos were painted over, but in 2021 / 22 it was all restored. }} * '''Office of the Chamber of Mechanical Engineers''' (''Makina Mühendisleri Odası'') is the imposing building facing St Anne's Church. * {{see | name=Fatih Mosque | alt=Panagia Khrysokephalos | url= | email= | address=Fatih Cami Sk 1 | lat=41.0045 | long=39.7195 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Fatih Mosque, Trabzon | wikidata=Q5437792 | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=The "Golden domed church of All Saints" was built in the 10th or 11th century on much earlier foundations - until the 4th century AD it was the scene of Mithras worship.In the Middle ages it was the city cathedral, and hosted coronations for the Emperors of Trebizond. It was converted to a mosque when the Ottomans took over in 1461. Restoration in 2017/18 uncovered more original features, and a raised glass platform enables you to see the fine late-Roman mosaic floor. }} * {{see | name=Yenicuma Mosque | alt=Church of Saint Eugenius | url= | email= | address=Cami Sk 48 | lat=41.0011 | long=39.7223 | directions=off Yavuz Selim Blv | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikipedia=New Friday Mosque | wikidata=Q8052263 | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Built in the 13th century as a church dedicated to Saint Eugenius, the patron saint of the city. Eugenius was a martyr under the persecutions of Diocletian around 305 AD. His holy intercession supposedly saved the city from Turkish assault in 1224, but did nothing to halt the conquest by Mehmet in 1461. The church was thereafter converted to a mosque, which remains in use and is only open for prayer times. }} * {{see | name=Santa Maria Church | alt=Santa Mariya Klisesi | url= | email= | address=Sümer Sk | lat=41.0072 | long=39.7318 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=This is the only church in Trabzon that still has regular Roman Catholic masses. It was founded by Italian Capuchin monks expelled from Tbilisi in 1845, as part of a long anti-Catholic campaign by the Russian Tsars. }} * {{see | name=St John Exoteichos Church | alt=Sotka Kilisesi | url= | email= | address=Haneci Sk 4 | lat=41.0079 | long=39.7151 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Former Greek Orthodox church founded in 1306 outside the city walls - ''exoteichos''- but rebuilt in 1856 very much hemmed in by the city. It's now used as an annex to a primary school. The exterior is in good condition, no access to the interior, where the frescoes have been lost. }} * {{see | name=Kudrettin Mosque | alt=St Philip Church | url= | email= | address=Kudrettin Cami Sk | lat=41.0008 | long=39.7341 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Built as St Philip Church in 1302 and extended into a cathedral in 1461. It was converted into a mosque circa 1665. In 1968 this was rebuilt, so what you see now is retro-Ottoman. }} * {{see | name=Molla Siyah Mosque | alt=Nakip Mosque | url= | email= | address=Mısırlı Sk 11 | lat=41.0071 | long=39.7184 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Nakip Mosque | wikidata=Q6960646 | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Built in the 11th-century as the Orthodox church of St. Andreas or Andrew, and converted to a mosque after 1461. It's still in use. }} * '''Sarmaşık Mosque''' or Eski ("Old") Kemerkaya Mosque is tucked away on Öğretmen Mektep Sk. It's thought to be a 13th century chapel, converted to a mosque around 1530. It's on sloping ground with the ablutions area at street level and the prayer hall accessed by an exterior stairway. * {{see | image= | name=Yeni Kemerkaya Mosque| alt=Kemerkaya Cami| url= | email=| address= |lat=41.0068 | long=39.7291| directions=| phone=| hours= | price=| content=Former church built in 1838}} * {{see | image= |name=Hızırbey Mosque|alt=Hızırbey Cami|url=|email=|address=|lat=41.0067 | long=39.7136| directions=|phone=|hours=|price=|content=Ottoman mosque built in 1789 around a pre-existing church.}} * {{see | name=Hüsnü Köktuğ Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Yaşar Kaptan Çebi Sk 11 | lat=41.0023 | long=39.735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Closed | price= | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Used as a mosque since 1953, and some believe it was formerly St Elefterios Church, built by the Genoese in the 15th century. However it doesn't look it, and more likely that church was closer to the port and long ago demolished. However Hüsnü Köktuğ has a strong claim to be the city's ugliest mosque, with its jarring modern facade. In 2025 it's closed for reconstruction. }} * {{see | name=Küçük Fatih Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bahçecik Cami Sk | lat=40.9937 | long=39.7171 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Built around the 12th / 13th century as St Akindynos Church, and converted into a mosque after the conquest of 1461. It's still in use. }} ====Islamic architecture==== Much of the Islamic architecture in Trabzon makes use of Seljuk and local Pontic/Caucasian references, instead of Ottoman ones found in other Turkish cities. Baroque Revivalism was also quite popular, and still has some influence on new mosque constructions. [[file:Çarşı Cami Trabzon.JPG|thumb|270px|Bazaar Mosque (Çarşı Camii), in the market quarter.]] [[file:Gülbahar Hatun Mosque.JPG|thumb|270px|Gülbahar Hatun Mosque.]] * {{see | name=İskender Paşa Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Meydan Cami Sk 15 | lat=41.0059 | long=39.729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours | price=Free | wikipedia=İskender Pasha Mosque, Trabzon | wikidata=Q8080194 | lastedit=2025-07-08 | content=Built by governor İskender Pasha in 1559, and extensively restored in 1882. Its medressah and graveyard have been lost. }} * {{see | name=Bazaar Mosque | alt=Çarşı Camii | url= | email= | address=Çarşı Cami Sk 4 | lat=41.0075 | long=39.7234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=This late Baroque mosque was built in 1839 by governor Hazinedarzade Osman Paşa in the midst of the market quarter. It's the oldest surviving mosque in the city. }} * {{see | name=Gulbahar Hatun Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Şenol Güneş Cd 17 | lat=41.0032 | long=39.7161 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6066259 | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Founded in 1514 by Selim, then governor and later Sultan, in honour of his mother. Gulbahar Hatun (1453-1505) was originally a slave girl and became the concubine of Bayezid II; her tomb is here. The mosque was repaired in 1883. }} * {{see | image= |name=İçkale Mosque|alt=İçkale Camii|url=|email=|address=|lat=41.0008|long=39.7192| directions=|phone=|hours=|price=|content=Built in 1470 this was probably the first mosque to be constructed in the city. It is a small mosque on the acropolis of the old town, near the former palace. It was restored in the 19th century. The minaret dates to the 1960s.}} * {{see | name=Hacı Kasım Muhittin Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Muhittin Cami Sk 9 | lat=41.0038 | long=39.7243 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Sturdy Ottoman mosque built in 1822. }} * {{see | name=Erdoğdu Bey Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kıble Sk 1 | lat=41.001 | long=39.7123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Built in its present form in 1577, this is no longer in use, replaced by a larger modern mosque adjacent. }} * {{see | name=Tabakhane Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uzun Sk 77 | lat=41.0051 | long=39.7227 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-17:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Built in 1987 in retro style on the site of an earlier mosque. }} * {{see | name=Pazarkapı Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaferi Sk | lat=41.0078 | long=39.7207 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=First built in 1563, but entirely rebuilt in 1987. }} * {{see | image= |name=Tekke Mosque|alt=Tekke Cami|url=|email=|address=|lat=41.0038 | long=39.7295| directions=|phone=|hours=|price=|content=Ottoman mosque, built in 1591.}} * {{see | image= |name=Hamza Paşa Mosque|alt=Hamza Paşa Camii|url=|email=|address=|lat=41.0045 | long=39.7130| directions=|phone=|hours=|price=|content=Ottoman mosque, built in 1745.}} * {{see | name=Hacı Salih Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Alacahan Sk 14 | lat=41.0078 | long=39.7244 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Ottoman mosque, built in 1860. }} * {{see | image= |name=Tavanli Mosque|alt=Tavanli Cami|url=|email=|address=|lat=41.0013 | long=39.7276| directions=|phone=|hours=|price=|content=Ottoman mosque, built in 1874.}} * {{see | image=Ahi Evran.jpg | name=Ahi Evren Dede Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.996397 | long=39.7352631 | directions=| phone=| hours= | price=| content=Ottoman mosque, built in 1890}} * {{see | image=Haji Yahya Mosque Trabzon.jpg | name=Haji Yahya Mosque| alt=Haji Yahya Cami | url= | email=| address= |lat=41.00811 | long=39.72222| directions=| phone=| hours= | price=| content=Small Ottoman mosque}} * {{see | image=Hoca Halil Mosque Trabzon.jpg | name=Hoca Halil Mosque Mosque| alt=Hoca Halil Cami | url= | email=| address= | |lat=41.0078 | long=39.7178| directions=| phone=| hours= | price=| content=Small Ottoman mosque first built in 1553. Rebuilt in 1896 and 1963.}} * {{see | image= |name=Hasan Ağa Mosque|alt=Hasan Ağa Cami|url=|email=|address=|lat= 40.99721 | long=39.74818| directions=|phone=|hours=|price=|content=Mosque built in 1548. This mosque lies outside the central core of the city, in the Değirmendere neighborhood to the southeast of the harbor.}} * {{see | name=Semerciler Mosque | alt=Semerciler Camii | url= | email= | address= | lat=36.20377 | long=36.16339 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Small Ottoman mosque, built in 1759. }} * {{see | image= | name=Müftü Mosque|alt=Müftü Cami|url= |address= |lat=41.00661 | long=39.72296| directions=|phone= |hours= |price=| content=1967 reconstruction of an Ottoman mosque first built in 1753.}} ====Monasteries==== * {{see | name=Girls Monastery | alt=Kızlar Manastırı | url= | email= | address=Coşkun Karaağaçlı Cd | lat=40.9985 | long=39.7285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M 12:00-19:00, Tu-F 09:00-19:00 | price= | wikipedia=Kızlar Monastery | wikidata=Q6454774 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=The only nunnery in the city was built in the 1360s around one of the holy cave springs at Boztepe. The rock church has frescoes depicting Alexios III, his wife Theodora and his mother Irene (the likely benefactor of the monastery). It closed in 1922 when the Orthodox population were deported. It was restored in 2021. }} * {{see | name=Kaymaklı Monastery | alt=Monastery of the All-Saviour, Ամենափրկիչ Վանք | url= | email= | address=Hizmet Cd., Çukurçayır mah., west of Değirmendere river| lat=40.9943 | long=39.74418 | directions=2 km East | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kaymaklı Monastery | image=Kaymakli-southwest.jpg | wikidata=Q830472 | content=The Armenian monastery of the All-Saviour is in a suburb to the southeast of Boztepe. It is made up of a number of structures, which may not be accessible to visitors, as the monastery is in a state of disrepair. The interior of the church of the monastery is covered in frescoes. }} === Museums === [[Image:Trabzon Museum 1.jpg|thumb|270px|Trabzon Museum]] * {{see | name=Archaeology Museum | alt=Kostaki Mansion | url=https://www.kulturportali.gov.tr/turkiye/trabzon/gezilecekyer/trabzon-muzesi | email= | address=Zeytinlik Cd 7 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Closed | price= | wikipedia=Trabzon Museum | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=This fine mansion was built for the banker Kostaki Teophylaktos in 1889. It's been closed for renovation since 2018 with no news of re-opening. }} * {{see | name=City Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kahramanmaraş Cd 14 | lat=41.0059 | long=39.7281 | directions= | phone=+90 462 321 4769 | hours=Tu-Su 09:00-19:00 | price=Adult 50 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=This exhibits city history from its Ancient Greek foundation to Ottoman times, plus local natural history and ethnography. Signage is only in Turkish. }} * {{see | name=Trabzorspor Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hüsnü Aybay Sk 6 | lat= | long= | directions=opposite City Museum | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-17:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=History and trophies of Trabzonspor football club. }} * {{see | name=History Museum | alt=Ortahisar Tarih Müzesi | url=https://karadeniz.gov.tr/trabzon-tarih-muzesi/ | email= | address=Sarayatik Cami Sk | lat=41.0047 | long=39.7209 | directions= | phone=+90 462 321 9058 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-17:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Restored mansion with photographs, documents and artefacts describing the city in the Ottoman and Republican periods. Signage is only in Turkish. }} * {{see | name=Atatürk Pavilion | alt=Atatürk Köşkü | url= | email= | address=Ata Cd 1, Soğuksu | lat=40.9798 | long=39.6979 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-19:00 | price= | wikidata=Q6025611 | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=The summer home of banker Konstantin Kabayanidis, built late 19th century. He left during the post-war population exchanges and from 1924 Atatürk stayed here on several occasions. It's been furnished to period with his memorabilia. }} * {{see | name=Silk Road Museum | alt=Ipekyolu Müzesi | url=https://www.ipekyolumuzesi.com/ | email= | address=Devlet Sahil Yolu Cd 103 | lat=41.0089 | long=39.7197 | directions=Within Chamber of Trade and Industry. | phone=+90 462 326 80 70 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 08:30-17:30 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Exhibits connected to the silk road trade. }} ===Caravanserai=== {{PoiMap2detail|41.00672|39.72357|18|M|The Bazaar <br /><small>(Mapnik layer is the most detailed)</small>}} Three of the historic caravanserai of the city have been restored. They are all near each other in the Bazaar district. * {{see |image=Bedestan, Trabzon.JPG | name=Bedesten|alt=| url=| address= |lat=41.00782 | long=39.72368| directions=| phone= | price=| content=A former caravanserai. Restored and turned into an arts and crafts center.}} * {{see | image= | name=Taş Han|alt=| url=| address= |lat=41.00723 | long=39.72393| directions=| phone= | price=| content=A former caravanserai. Restored.}} * {{see | image= | name=Alaca Han|alt=| url=| address= |lat=41.00787 | long=39.72462| directions=| phone= | price=| content=A former caravanserai. Restored and turned into an arts and crafts center.}} === Other === [[Image:Trabzon City walls and Aquaduct.JPG|thumb|270px|Aqueduct in Zagnos Valley Park]] [[Image:Engineers and Architects Trabzon office.jpg|thumb|270px|Office of the chamber of mechanical engineers]] [[Image:Trabzon mansions.JPG|thumb|270px|Historic mansions in Zagnos Valley Park]] * {{marker | name=City walls | type=see | wikidata=Q6011652 }} are best viewed from Zagnos bridge and park. They're sometimes called a castle or fortress but were simply the walls and towers of the ancient city perched on the crag. Masonry was continually recycled so they're a hotch-potch of Roman, Byzantine, Trebizond and Ottoman work. * {{see | image=Trabzon City walls and Aquaduct.JPG | name=Eugenius Aqueduct|alt=Kemeri| url=| address= | lat=41.0005 | long=39.7178| directions=| phone= | price=| content=In the south of Zagnos Valley Park there is a small late Roman/early Byzantine aqueduct.}} * {{see | name=Kalepark Fortress | alt=Güzelhisar | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.008 | long=39.7343 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kalepark | image=Leonkastron fortress.jpg | wikidata=Q6352143 | content=It is a former Genoese fortification called ''Leonkastron''. You can get there by walking to the northeast from the eastern end of Meydan square. There is a tea garden just west of the fortress, but as of early 2022 this area is undergoing major renovations. }} * {{see| image=Trabzon Bar Association.jpg | name=Trabzon Bar Association|alt=| url=| address= | lat=41.0029 | long=39.7322| directions=| phone= | price=| content=The former American consulate, squeezed in between Yavuz Selim boulevard southeast of central Meydan square.}} * {{see | image=Trabzon Gazeteciler Cemiyeti.jpg | name=Office of the chamber of journalists|alt=| url=| address= |lat=41.00475 | long=39.73085| directions=| phone= | price=| content=Small but quaint historic building on the central Meydan square.}} * {{see| image=City governor's office, Trabzon.jpg | name=Former Trebizond Province Governors office|alt=| url=| address= | lat=41.0046 | long=39.7204| directions=| phone= | price=| content=This historic building now houses a cultural center.}} * {{see| image=Russian consulate, Trabzon.jpg | name=Russian consulate|alt=| url=| address= | lat=41.0041 | long=39.7199| directions=| phone= | price=| content=This large building is in the heart of the historic walled city.}} * {{see | name=Former Phrontisterion | alt=Kanuni Anadolu Lisesi | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0077 | long=39.7287 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3562751| wikipedia=Phrontisterion of Trapezous | image=Phrontisterion of Trapezous.JPG | content=Now the Turkish high school ''Kanuni Anadolu Lisesi''. This monumental building housed the main Pontic Greek school of higher learning until 1921. }} * {{see| image= | name=Trabzon Art House|alt=Trabzon Sanat Ev (Eski Vali Konağı)| url=| address= |lat=41.0040 | long=39.7267| directions=| phone= | price=| content=The former city governors mansion.}} * {{see | image=Trebisonda,_Cephanelik_(ex-polveriera,_oggi_hotel)_01.jpg | name=Arsenal| alt=Cephanelik | url= | email=| address= | lat=40.9924 | long=39.7223 | directions=| phone=| hours= | price=| content=In the south of the Tabakhane valley lies the old armory. It is restored and now houses a restaurant.}} * {{see | image= | name=Nemlioglu Mansion | alt=Nemlioglu Konak, Nemlioğlu Konağı | url= | address= | lat=41.0021 | long=39.7277 | directions=Central| phone=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{see | name=Ortahisar education directorate|alt=Ortahisar ilçe milli eğitim müdürlüğü| url=| address= | lat=41.0060 | long=39.7246 | directions=| phone= | price=| content= Monumental building on Kahramanmaraş street. }} * {{see | name=Trabzon Aquarium | alt= | url=https://www.trabzonakvaryum.com.tr/ | email= | address=Kuzgundere Cd 82 | lat=41.0008 | long=39.7203 | directions= | phone=+90 561 611 4335 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-19:00 | price=Adult 250 TL | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Large walk-through aquarium. }} * {{see | name=Trabzon Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address=Çamoba | lat=41.0008 | long=39.7203 | directions= | phone=+90 462 224 6161 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Peaceful colourful park above the city. }} ===Parks=== * {{listing | image=Trabzon Meydan.jpg | name=Meydan |lat=41.0053 | long=39.7308|content=encircled by Atatürk Alanı. The central park has been renovated. There is a large statue of Ataturk which draws groups of demonstrators. But you can easily drink a relaxing tea under the trees, watch passers-by, eat on the sidewalk cafes or have a beer on one of the rooftop bars.}} * {{listing| image=Zagnos valley park.jpg | name=Zagnos bridge & valley park |lat=41.0044 | long=39.7182|content=A park along the western side of the ancient walled city. With views on many historic mansions. Within the park one can also find a small open-air theater, a Byzantine aqueduct, and the "Trabzon Aquarium".}} * {{listing| image=Trabzon2 RIMG0860.JPG | name=Boztepe tea garden |lat=40.9982 | long=39.7297|content=Southeast of the center, on a hill overlooking the city. Offers great views during day and night. Until the 3rd century AD, a tall statue of Mithra stoodguarding the city on the hill, which was at that time named after the Persian-Greek god. It was replaced by a church and later a mosque. On the hill lies the Kızlar monastery, which is being renovated to house an arts center.}} * {{listing | name=Fatih Park |lat=41.0031 | long=39.7314|content=A public tea garden just southeast of Meydan near the Iranian consulate. Come here to relax or play a game of backgammon.}} * {{listing | name=Atapark |lat=41.0041 | long=39.7158|content=To the west of Zagnos bridge. It has a tea garden, Ottoman mosque, and the central public library. There is also a full-size model of a ''Serander'', a timber structure typical of the Black Sea region meant to store food away from rodents. To the north of the park is the Varlıbaş shopping mall and the City Council building.}} * {{listing| image=Tabakhane Bridge, Trabzon.jpg | name=Kuzgun / Tabakhane valley park |lat=41.0043 | long=39.7218|content=The new park along the eastern side of the city. Under construction.}} {{PoiMap2detail|41.0002|39.7308|17|M|Boztepe Hill<br />}} ===Further afield=== ====South of Trabzon==== [[File:Sumela monastery in province of Trabzon, Turkey view from the road.JPG|thumb|300px|Sümela Monastery]] [[File:Rock Church frescoes, Sumela.JPG|thumb|300px|Fresco at Sümela]] * {{listing | type=around | name=Sümela Monastery | alt=Turkish: Sümela Manastırı; Greek: Panagia Soumela, Virgin Mary of Soumela | url=https://www.sumela.gov.tr/ | email=sumela@muze.gov.tr | address=Altındere Vadisi, Maçka | lat=40.69 | long=39.658333 | directions= | phone=+90 462 5311064 | tollfree= | hours= | price=125 TL | wikipedia=Sumela Monastery | image=Sumela monastery in province of Trabzon, Turkey view from the road.JPG | wikidata=Q1419157 | lastedit=2022-08-17 | content= }} A spectacular rock-hewn monastery perched dramatically on the narrow ledge of a steep cliff in the forests south of Trabzon. It was built in the fourth century, just before the Roman Empire split into east and west, by two Athenian priests, Barnabas and Sophronius, who, according to legend, found a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary in a cave. The monastery's location in this geopolitically tumultuous corner of the globe naturally saw times of trouble and fell into ruin numerous times throughout its history, with its most thriving times falling under Byzantine and Ottoman rule. The 20th century, however, was not kind to the monastery. It was abandoned following the chaos and inter-ethnic violence at the end of World War I, and the population transfer of Trabzon's (formerly Trebizond) Greek population back to [[Greece]]. Its remote location gave it some sanctuary, but its frescoes still attracted the occasional casually hurled rock by a bored shepherd. The beautiful frescoes today suffer from decades of heart-wrenchingly pointless vandalism by travelers&mdash;judging from the various alphabets and names scrawled across these impressive religious works of art, it appears that just about every culture in the world has taken part in the desecration. The buildings have been fairly heavily restored, as the Turkish government has stepped in to protect the monastery and to turn it into a museum. During restoration work in 2017 a passage was discovered leading to a hidden chapel, which has frescoes depicting life, death, heaven and hell. Visitors can view all areas of the monastery, including previously inaccessible spaces such as the library and the newly discovered chapel. Getting there: * The simplest way to get to the monastery is by tour, and you can find a tour in town by just asking any other traveller there (no tourist visits Trabzon without seeing Sümela). For instance, [http://www.eycetours.com Eyce Tours] offers round trip to Sumela for about 30 TL (address: Atatürk Alani, at Taksim İşhanı sk. 11. (462) 3267174). The Metro and Ulusoy bus companies run minibuses to the monastery during summer months from their Atatürk Alani offices. * The monastery lies close to [[Maçka]], about 30&nbsp;km south of Trabzon, and those preferring to get to the monastery on their own means instead of taking a tour can get to Maçka by taking minibuses heading for [[Gümüşhane]], [[Erzurum]] or other destinations south from Trabzon. There is also a direct bus connection run by Maçka municipality from Cemil Usta street south of Meydan square. The rest of the way, approximately 17&nbsp;km to the actual site of monastery, can be done by hitchhiking. The ''dolmuş'' from downtown Maçka have the same price than if you would buy it from Trabzon (20 TL) and departs at 10:30, which will take you to the entrance of Altındere National Park (''Milli Park''). Then, the monastery is about half an hour walk away, which can be done through a forest trail, which has been widened in order to cope with the ever increasing numbers of visitors, or along the tarmac road leading to the monastery. * Those approaching with their own vehicles can get as near as 300 m to Sümela, where there is a car-park in front of Hagia Barbara Chapel. There is an additional fee of 20 TL for cars, paid at the entrance of the national park. Since Sümela is closed for the moment (but you still went to Maçka village for some reason), you can explore Altındere national park. Upstream along Altındere (Golden River) above the tree line are beautiful landscapes with ice cold lakes. An alternative route could lead eastward towards the ghost towns of {{marker|type=around|name=Santa|lat=40.664|long=39.802}} (Dumanlı, in far northern Gümüşhane province), dispersed over a number of valleys high up the mountains. The ruins are of a collection of [[mining tourism|mining towns]] abandoned when their Pontic Greek inhabitants were forced out during the population transfer. Santa is accessible by a car, although getting there is an adventure in itself. Otherwise, these are multi-day treks for which you need an experienced tour guide. The best place to arrange this would be in Trabzon at one of the tourist offices off Meydan square. [[File:Kustul Monastery Trabzon.jpg|thumb|300px|Kuştul Monastery]] * {{listing | type=around | name=Vazelon Monastery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Maçka district, | lat=40.7634 | long=39.5327 | directions=40 km south of Trabzon | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Vazelon Monastery | wikidata=Q829582 | lastedit=2017-06-18 | content=Founded in 270 AD as one of the first Christian monasteries in the world. The wealth aggregated at Vazelon through taxation of the lands in the valley below were invested in the construction of some of the other monasteries in the region. Now it lies ruined and abandoned. The road is rocky and dangerous. Check current conditions, as fallen trees or other obstacles may make it impossible to access the monastery. The impressive outer walls of the monastery remain standing in large part, but the roof has collapsed entirely. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Kuştul Monastery | alt=Turkish: Kuştul Manastırı, Greek: Ιερά Μονή του Αγίου Γεωργίου Περιστερεώτα | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.7964 | long=39.6839 | directions=near Şimşirli village, 30 km southeast of Trabzon | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kuştul Monastery | image=Kustul Monastery Trabzon.jpg | wikidata=Q513424 | content=The Saint George Peristereota Monastery was one of the most impressive monuments of the entire Pontus, rivaling Sumela with its dramatic location on a rocky mountaintop. The monastery was made up of multiple residential and clerical structures, including two freestanding churches. It is now almost completely ruined and exceedingly difficult to reach. To get an idea of how it looked before it was abandoned, watch the 3D reconstruction video by architect Nefidis Vladimiros on YouTube. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Günes Sanat Galerisi | alt=Art gallery | url= | email= | address=village Zigana (also called Kalkanli) | lat=40.6078 | long=39.3649 | directions=about 1 hour by bus from Trabzon southward over the mountains towards Torul and Gümüshane | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This art gallery is made by Mr Azmi Aytekin, a 73-year-old painter and thinker from Zigana. He has travelled around the world, and has settled in the small village Zigana (also called Kalkanli) near the magnificent Zigana mountains. }} [[Image:Mansions in Trabzon 2.jpg|thumb|270px|Mansions in Akçaabat, just west of Trabzon]] [[File:Uzungöl lake and town.jpg|thumb|300px|Uzungöl lake and town in Çaykara district]] ====West of Trabzon==== * {{listing | type=around | image=Mansions in Trabzon 2.jpg | name=Memorial House Museum of Akçaabat| alt=Akçaabat Ortamahalle Evleri Müzesi | url= | email=| address= | lat=41.0203 | long=39.5632 | directions=| phone= | hours= | price=|lastedit=2022-02-22| content= Akçaabat (former Platana, the village closest to Trabzon city) is home to dozens of historical wooden mansions in the local Neoclassical Pontic style, which resembles 19th-century Northern European and American domestic architecture. It also has two church buildings, one of which has been restored (Saint Joseph church).}} * {{listing| type=around | name=Çal Caves| alt=Çal Mağarası | url= | email= | address= Çal, Düzköy| lat=40.86519 | long=39.37965 | directions= 30 km southwest of Akçaabat. Follow provincial road 61-76 until Çiğdemli. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Th-Sa 08:00-17:00 | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= |lastedit=2022-02-21| content=A large set of caves with waterfalls. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Akçakale Fortress | alt=Akçakale kalesi | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0807 | long=39.5036 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Akçakale tower | wikidata=Q4702058 | content=Only worth it if you plan on visiting the beach nearby. }} ====East of Trabzon==== * {{listing | type=around | name=[[Sürmene]]|alt=Greek: Σούρμενα, Sourmena; Ottoman Turkish: ﺳﻮرﻣﻨﻪ) |lat=40.914167| long=40.1125|directions=E 40 km| content=5 km to the west of Sürmene stands a ruined medieval castle. 5 km to the east stand the Memiş Ağa Konağı and the Ahmet Aga Konağı, two large restored historical mansions. Sürmene itself does not have any significant sights but may warrant a stopover to buy supplies when you plan to take the 'Caravan Road' heading south from the town towards the Pontic Mountains (see the section 'Outdoors'). }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Uzungöl lake and town | alt=Saraho | url=https://uzungol.net | email= | address= | lat=40.619 | long=40.292 | directions=99 km from Trabzon, 19 km from Caykara | phone= | tollfree= | hours=09:00-18:00 | price= | content=A lake up in the mountains at an altitude of 1090 m. A great number of broken rocks from the slopes filled up Haldizen stream and Uzungöl was formed in this way. The lake is 1000 m long, 500 m in width and 15 m in depth. It is surrounded by forests. Uzungöl has an interesting view with the village houses around it. And there are some other small lakes on the mountains which are 15-20 km from Uzungol. The lake is also surrounded by convenient tracks for hiking. There are some facilities such as bungalows and some establishments which rear trout. Travel agencies organize day tours during summer (40 TL). Uzungöl is the most touristic location in Trabzon province. The closest summer settlements are on the yaylas {{marker|type=around|name=Karester|lat=40.6049|long=40.2663}} and {{marker|type=around|name=Lustra|lat=40.6013|long=40.3009}}, just south of Uzungöl. These hamlets offer great views on the valley and are a bit less touristy than the town below. From Karester or Lustra you can further explore the alpine landscapes and traditional architecture by hiking or mountain-biking. For some ideas for multi-day hikes near Uzungöl - or Çaykara district in general - see 'Trekking & Bikepacking' of the section 'Do/Outdoors'. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Uzungöl Dursun Ali İnan Museum | alt= | url=https://inankardeslerotel.com/en/uzungol-museum.html | email=info@uzungolmuzesi.com | address=Fatih road, Uzungöl, Çaykara | lat=40.61762 | long=40.30417 | directions=a few hundred meters east of lake Uzungöl, on the south side of the Demirkapi (Haldizen) stream | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A unique eclectic museum in Turkey showcasing the art, history, culture and nature of the region surrounding lake Uzungöl in Çaykara district. On display are collections of ancient amphora, antique home appliances, tools, musical instruments, cow bells, gravestones belonging to people of different faiths, and many other objects collected by Mr Dursun. The museum also houses a large collection of massive wrought tree trunks and dozens of wooden sculptures of animals and humans. Even the different types of rocks and stones which can be found in the area may be viewed as pieces of art. Unlike other museums in Trabzon the Dursun Ali İnan Museum is bilingual in Turkish and English. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Cevdet Sunay Memorial House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Çaykara-Sultan Murat Rd | lat= | long= | directions=21 km away in Ataköy | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6048671 | content=Cevdet Sunay was the fifth president of Turkey. He was born in this small town and grew up in Trabzon. His birthplace has been a museum since 2001. It is near the Sultan Murat Yayla, where an important memorial site from the First World War is on Martyrs Hill ('''Şehitler Tepesi'''). }} ====Mansions==== In the rural districts of Trabzon one can find many historical 18th and 19th century churches, mosques and mansions. * {{listing | type=around | image= | name=Yakupoglu Memis Aga Mansion|alt=Yakupoğlu Memiş Ağa Konağı|url= | address= | lat= 40.91319 | long=40.17473 | directions=Sürmene quarter|phone=| hours= |price=| content= }} * {{listing | type=around | image= |name=Ahmet Aga Mansion|alt=Yakupoğlu Ahmet Ağa Konağı| url= | address= | lat= 40.9133 | long=40.17614 |directions=Sürmene quarter|phone=|hours= | price=| content= }} * {{listing | type=around | name=99 Window Hashim Aga Mansion | alt=99 Pencereli Haşim Ağa Konağı | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.86376 | long=40.07404 | directions='Sürmene' quarter | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | type=around | image= | name=Mustafa Topal Mansion| alt=Sarımollaoğlu Topal Mustafa Konaği | url= | address= | lat= | long= | directions='Araklı' quarter| phone=| hours= | price=| content= }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Cakiroglu Ismail Aga Mansion | alt=Çakıroğlu İsmail Ağa Konağı | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.92514 | long=40.35599 | directions='Of' quarter | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Cakiroglu Hasan Aga Mansion | alt=Çakıroğlu Hasan Ağa Konağı | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.9625 | long=40.29786 | directions='Of' quarter | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Do== === Sports === [[File:Medical Park Arena Trabzonspor - Galatasaray.jpg | thumb | 300px | Trabzonspor playing at home to Galatasaray ]] * '''Football''' {{do | name=Trabzonspor | alt=Papara Park | url=https://www.trabzonspor.org.tr/en | email= | address=Şenol Güneş Stadium | lat=40.9980 | long=39.6506 | directions=bus to Akyazı | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Şenol Güneş Stadium | wikidata=Q7012155 | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=They play soccer in Süper Lig, the top tier. They're Turkey's most successful team outside Istanbul and often qualify for European tournaments. As well as local support, they have big diaspora followings in Istanbul and Baku. The stadium (capacity 40,800) is named for Şenol Güneş (b 1952), former goalkeeper and manager of Trabzon and the Turkish national team. Trabzonspor women's team play at Mehmet Ali Yılmaz Stadium. }} * {{do | name=Yomra Climbing Gym | alt=Yomra Tırmanış Duvarı | url= | email= | address=Hükümet Cd, Yomra | lat=40.9557 | long=39.8660 | directions= | phone=+90 462 344 0992 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Sports complex with climbing and bouldering. For natural climbing try the Şahınkaya rockface in the western district of Düzköy. }} ===Hamams, beaches and swimming pools=== Trabzon city has been left without a beach since the construction of the coastal highway. However, there is a small public beach called Kaşüstü Plajı at Yomra town, some 10&nbsp;km east of Trabzon. Larger public beaches can be found at Akçakale, 25&nbsp;km to the west, and at Kalecik, 25&nbsp;km to the east of the city. The water of the Black Sea is not suitable for swimming during the colder months of the year. Also, these shingle beaches don't offer the comfort or facilities that one finds in the Turkish riviera. The nearest beach holiday destinations are [[Giresun]] to the west and [[Batumi]] to the east. Within the city are 4 historical bathhouses (hamams). Two of them have retained their function and are open to the public. The central Hamam is continually operational for both sexes, while the 'Eight columned bath' in the lower part of the old town has specific days for male and females. *{{do | name=Central Hamam | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0052 | long=39.7299| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Try a traditional Turkish bath (hamam). The men-only Hamam is right next to Efes Pub; the women-only Hamam is just around the corner. A really great authentic Turkish experience, and the people are very nice and will walk you through everything. 25 TL for a bath (including a scrubbing and massage) at the women's hamam, and you should also tip your masseuse. }} *{{do | name=Sekiz Direkli Hamam | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0082 | long=39.7187| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another historic hamam, to the west of the bazaar quarter. }} *{{do | name=Kaşüstü Municipal Family Beach | alt=Kaşüstü Belediye Aile Plajı | url= | email= | address= | lat= 40.96867 | long=39.84209| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= The nearest public beach, some 10 km east of the city center. }} * {{do | name=Akçakale Beach | alt=Akçakale Plajı | url= | email=| address= | lat=41.0823731 | long=39.5025678 | directions=W 24 km| phone= | hours= | price=| content= }} * {{do | name=Kalecik Beach| alt=Kalecik Plajı| url= | email=| address= | lat=40.9583|long=40.0304 | directions=E 25 km| phone= | hours= | price=| content= }} * {{do | name=Aquapark | alt=| url= | email=| address= | lat=41.0510 | long=39.5374 | directions=| phone= | hours= | price=| content=Outdoor swimming pool with large slides between Akçakale and Akçaabat. }} * {{do | name=Mehmet Akif Ersoy Indoor Swimming Pool | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0004 | long=39.7799 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6809567| wikipedia=Mehmet Akif Ersoy Indoor Swimming Pool | content=Olympic-size swimming pool. Not for small children. }} ===Festivals=== [[Image:Kadirga.jpg|thumb|270px|Dancers at Kadirga Festival. One of the must-do's when in Trabzon; learn the Horon circle dance, it will come in handy in most countries around the Black Sea.]] * '''Black Sea Theatre Festival''' Mostly (but not exclusively) groups from countries around the Black Sea participate in this festival. * '''International Painting Festival''' Promoting painting in the wider area of Trabzon. * '''Kadirga Festival''' (third week of June, Kadirga Yaylası, southwest Maçka district) The largest and oldest folk festival of Turkey. On the Pontic Alps near the Gümüşhane province border. Locals, European Turks and Pontic Greeks meet on the mountain pastures to celebrate their shared culture in folk costume, music, dance and cuisine. On other summer pastures (yayla's) there are similar (but smaller) festivities. * '''Sultan Murat Festival''' (Sultanmurat Şenlikleri) After the Kadirga Festival this is the largest folk festival of Trabzon. It is held in the end of August on the Sultanmurat yayla, 25&nbsp;km southwest of Çaykara village. * '''Ramadan''' The Islamic holy month (called Ramazan in Turkish) is very visible in Trabzon. While most liquor stores and restaurants close during the day, in the evening it can be hard to find a free spot on the many sidewalk cafes surrounding central Meydan square. * '''Assumption Day''' (August 15, Sümela Monastery) Every year since 2010 the Greek Orthodox patriarch has led a 'divine liturgy' at the Sümela Monastery (Moní Panagías Soumelá) in Maçka district, south of the city. Because of the size and location of the monastery, only a few hundred people are allowed to join the liturgy. In Maçka village screens are set up for other pilgrims. * '''Kalandar''' (Calendar Night, 13–14 January) In some villages in Maçka, Tonya, Sürmene and Çaykara districts, similar to Pontic Greek ''Momogeroi'', the "old-new year" of the Julian calendar is celebrated. The tradition goes back to pre-Christian Dionysian rituals. Locals wear traditional clothing, or guise themselves as the 'village doctor', a herder and his sheep, the demons Karakoncoloz or Momoyer, or (less frequently) as the blackfaced 'Arab traveller' Haji Firuz/Arápis. It is similar to trick-or-treating festivities in other European countries, such as Halloween or Sint-Maarten. Youths go house to house, singing songs and collecting sweets or ingredients for a shared meal around a campfire. In the recent past, Trabzon welcomed Pontic Greek cultural organizations to participate in the festivities, but since 2019 the national Turkish government has denied visa applications to these groups. * A historically important festival in Trabzon was ''Epiphany'' on January 6. Thousands of Christians and Muslim onlookers gathered at ''Kalmek point'', the place where the city protrudes the most into the Black Sea, to see the Christian ceremony. With the departure of the Greek Orthodox population, this tradition was lost to the city. ===Entertainment=== *{{do | name=Cinemaximum| url= | email= | address= |lat=40.9992 | long=39.7606| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The movie theater at the Forum shopping mall. Mainly shows blockbusters with Turkish subtitles. }} *{{do | name=Royal Sinema| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0048 | long=39.7280 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The main cinema near central Meydan square. Also offers blockbusters with Turkish subtitles. Next door to '''Lara cinema''', which mainly shows dubbed movies. }} *{{do | name=Avşar Sinema| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0047 | long=39.7161 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This cinema is in the Varlıbaş AVM shopping mall north of Atapark (just to the west of the western city walls). Blockbusters with Turkish subtitles, but offers a slightly larger choice. }} *{{do | name=Trabzon state theater| alt=Trabzon Devlet Tiyatrosu| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0031 | long=39.7169 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Trabzon was one of the first Ottoman cities to house a theater, and in 1912 it was the first city in the empire outside Istanbul to have an opera house. The state theater of Trabzon still offers quality plays. Even though virtually all plays are in Turkish, the powerful performances can still move tourists. }} *{{do | name=Hamamizade İhsanbey Cultural Center| alt=Hamamizade İhsanbey Kültür Merkez| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.00603 | long=39.73126 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A culture center with (amongst other things) a theater hall. It is one of a few interesting works of modern architecture in the city. }} ===Outdoors=== [[File:Karayaka sheep flocks, Sisdağı 04.jpg|thumb|270px|Karayaka sheep flocks, Sisdağı, Geyikli, Şalpazarı district]] [[File:61750 Hamsiköy-Maçka-Trabzon, Turkey - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|270px|Landscape near Hamsiköy, Maçka district]] [[File:Village near Çaykara, Trabzon.jpg|thumb|270px|The summer hamlet Ligoras ('Wolf Mountain'), Çaykara district]] [[File:Ovit Plato.jpg|thumb|270px|Ovit Plateau, Ikizdere, Rize province]] Trabzon is well known in Turkey as a destination for nature tourism and outdoor sports activities. The mountainous districts in Trabzon and neighboring Giresun and Rize provinces offer plenty options, but most areas are hardly developed for (international) tourism. However, this is also what makes the region attractive to adventurous travelers and Turkish families fleeing the hordes of tourists in Istanbul or the west coast. The beauty of Trabzon really lies in its alpine nature and remote, independent village life; Waking up in a traditional timber shed by the sound of cowbells and the scent of morning dew drawing the endless flower fields into your bed. Having fresh milk, corn bread, eggs and cooked green vegetables and spring water straight from the tap. To have this experience, you have to leave Trabzon, leave Uzungöl, and move higher up the mountain slopes, to the villages with their typical architecture and beautifully ornamented timber mosques, or even higher, where there are 'open air mosques', similar to the very first mosques in the world. Even though the people here are devout, they are not conservative in the traditional sense. It is normal for men and woman to mingle, make jokes, etc. Sufism has had a strong influence on these remote districts, and many people still grow up speaking minority languages like Romeyka Greek, Laz or Hemsin Armenian. As the region has grown in popularity amongst foreign tourists during the past two decades, the amount of trash left behind in nature has likewise increased. If you are planning to spend time in the mountains, you could consider taking extra waste bags with you. ====Kervan Yolu (Caravan Road)==== One of the historic routes connecting Trabzon to Persia across the Pontic Mountains was the caravan road from Sürmene to Bayburt. Multiple inns, castles, mosques and churches line the road. As it climbs up the mountains you pass scenic villages and landscapes. The area is popular with bird watchers and nature photographers, as it is one of the most important routes for migratory birds in Turkey. The road also takes you to Mount Madur (Theches in antiquity), where Xenophon and the 10,000 first spotted the sea and shouted "Thálatta! Thálatta!", 2400 years ago. The local tourism board is promoting the route for eco-tourism. ====Hiking & mountain biking==== The traditional rural life in Trabzon province revolves around transhumant seasonal migrations with cattle. Even before the summer starts villagers head up from the agrarian settlements in the bottom of the valleys to the summer pastures above the tree line, which are called 'Yayla'. There are many hamlets on the yayla's from which one can make hikes through the surrounding alpine landscape. The higher parts of the province are popular with bird watchers and have a rich flora. Mountain biking along the relatively flat, connected pastures, is fun and doable. You will see a lot of Turkish tourists on their mountain bikes. Mountain bikes will not be available for rent in most rural villages, so the best option would be to rent them in Trabzon or Uzungöl. Some better known yayla's in Trabzon province are (from west to east): *{{marker|type=around|name=Sisdağı Yaylası|lat=40.8833483|long=39.0912452|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Kadıralak Yaylası|lat=40.8895576|long=39.3209982|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Haçka Yaylası|lat=40.8309291|long=39.41709|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Kayabaşı Yaylası|lat=40.8373294|long=39.4594041|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Hidirnebi Yaylası|lat=40.9615|long=39.4226|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Hamsiköy Yaylası|lat=40.6393602|long=39.4827145|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Çakırgöl Yaylası|lat=40.5641026|long=39.707493|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Harmantepe Yaylası|lat=40.7118707|long=40.0848447|content=}} *{{marker|type=around|name=Sultan Murat Yaylası|lat=40.6435|long=40.1507|content=}} ====Trekking & bikepacking==== The densely forested mountain slopes and vast plains above the tree lines of Trabzon province are ideal for multi-day trekking adventures. However, for most districts there are no maps available in print or online. The exception is Çaykara district, which is the most detailed area of Turkey on OpenStreetMap. Incidentally this is one of the most densely settled valleys along the Black Sea coast, which means you will never be farther than a few kilometers from the nearest village. Some villages have small hotels or home-stays, especially near Uzungöl lake, but you are always free to camp in the wild. In some villages you can also rent a traditional chalet or herder's shack on the yayla. Expect to be invited for tea in every village, especially if you have children with you. The most important languages for communication in the villages are Turkish and Greek, but especially during the summer you might also find people that speak German, English, Arabic, Dutch or Russian. The highest peaks of the Pontic Mountains in Trabzon province lie in the southeast of Çaykara district near {{marker|type=around|name=Haldizen|lat=40.5464|long=40.4133}}, and reach to just over 3&nbsp;km. This area is also known as Yedigöller, referring to the 'Seven Lakes' that lie between the mountaintops (not to be confused with the national park bearing the same name in the western province Bolu). It is possible to trek from Haldizen in Çaykara to {{marker|type=around|name=Anzer|lat=40.5831|long=40.5152}} yayla and {{marker|type=around|name=Ovit|lat=40.6382|long=40.7643}} plateau in Rize province, and then further eastwards to the Kackar mountains (the highest peaks of the Pontic Mountains). It is also possible to do a part of this route before returning to the coast via Ikizdere. Along the way you will pass small villages with traditional architecture. Especially the village of Çamlık - downstream from Ovit - has maintained the tradition of timber construction. These are multi-day hikes. However, most mountaineering enthusiasts instead go directly to the Kackar mountains in next-door Rize province. Kate Clow popularized this area through her book, which includes detailed routes with coordinates. Because dense fog can obscure a clear day within a few minutes in these mountainous areas, it is ill-advised to wander around alone or without GPS. Brown bears, wolves and other wild animals can be found in the forests. It is legal to set up camp in the wild, but be sure not to leave any trash. ====Rafting==== Fırtına valley in upper Hemsin district of Rize province is ideal for rafting in Fırtına river, with its many centuries old arch bridges. ==Buy== As an important trade node, Trabzon also developed its own refined export produce. The area is rich in mineral deposits and it is thought that even in its early years as a Greek colony, part of its exports to the Agean were valuable metals. The ultra-fine handwoven gold and silver bracelets of Trabzon are a popular wedding gift throughout the country. Other local trades that still survive in the market quarter are copper-smiths and leather-workers. An exceptional souvenir would be a Kemençe (Pontian Lyra), the national instrument of Trabzon. A half-decent playable Kemençe violin will cost at least 1300 TL (Feb. 2022). There are also clock and keyring (chain) versions. For those heading to Iran or the Caucasus by bike, Trabzon is a good stop for maintenance, or to find supplies at one of the bike shops or outdoor supply stores. It will likely be many hundreds of kilometers before you have the opportunity to repair or restock. Alternatively, you might also find supplies at one of the many hunting or fishing shops of Trabzon. *{{buy | name=Market Quarter (Pazar)| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0071 | long=39.7255| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=To get to the bazaar from central Meydan, walk down pedestrianized Kunduracılar street to the northwest. The hand-woven gold and silver bracelets of Trabzon are world renowned. You can find the jewellery stores in the market quarter. Most of work occurs indoors. The sound of copper-smiths can still be heard. }} *{{buy | name=Uzun Sokak | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0051 | long=39.7286| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Trabzon's main pedestrian shopping street. This street is lined with many monumental buildings, most in the local Neoclassical style. }} * {{buy | name=Forum shopping mall| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.9995 | long=39.7601 | directions=near Atatürk Airport | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A modern shopping mall offering a similar experience to large shopping malls around the globe. }} * {{buy | name=Cevahir Outlet shopping mall| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.9672 | long=39.8381 | directions=near Novotel, in Yomra town | phone= | hours= | price=| content= }} * {{buy | name=Varlıbaş AVM | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/VarlibasAVM/ | email= | address=Gülbahar Hatun Mahallesi Atapark Karşısı Merkez | lat=41.0051 | long=39.7161 | directions= | phone=+90 462 223 60 00 | tollfree= | hours=10:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2015-07-25 | content=A shopping mall just west of the walled old town (to the north of Atapark). }} * {{buy | name=Russian Bazaar | alt=Rus Pazarı | url= | email= | address=| lat=41.0049 | long=39.7337 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The 'Russian Bazaar' is a street that runs down from Şht. İbrahim Karaoğlanoğlu street, to the east of Meydan square. You might be able to find cheap fake brands. For a more authentic bazaar experience, go to the market quarter. }} ==Eat== [[File:Hamsi EL.JPG|thumb|250px|Hamsi balik]] [[File:The Arsenal.jpg|thumb|250px|The former arsenal now houses a restaurant]] ===Local cuisine=== Typical ingredients for a Black Sea meal differ greatly from those of Anatolia. '''Vakfikebir ekmegi''' is the local sourdough bread similar to Italian Pane Casareccio. It is baked in a stone oven and can weigh up to 7&nbsp;kg. Because the Black Sea coast is too moist for the cereals that grow so abundantly in the rest of Anatolia, the main grain variety used in rural communities surrounding Trabzon is maize. Thus cornbread is also a popular dish. '''Hamsi''' (''Anchovies'') are a main staple for the region. They are typically fried and eaten whole. Fishermen from Trabzon catch about one-fifth of the Turkish total. There is even an ''Anchovies bread'' ('''Hamsikoli'''). The Black Sea region grows 70% of the worlds hazelnut production, and they are also often used in dishes. Some fruits that are grown in the region are cherries, persimmon and kiwi fruit. The Black Sea cuisine is heavy on stews and soups of vegetables and beans. It also includes many dairy dishes such as '''Kuymak/Muhlama''', fresh cow milk and '''Ayran''', and different types of cheeses. The '''pide''' (pizza) and '''köfte''' (meatballs) of Trabzon are famous in Turkey for their distinctive taste. Trabzon pide is a kind of pizza with cheese and eggs, similar to Adjarian Khachapuri, but there are many varieties. Many places sell these typical dishes, a cheap but good example near the city center is {{marker|type=eat|name=[http://www.cardakpide.com/index_en.html "Cardak Pide Salonu"]|lat=41.00533|long=39.73004}}. ===Eating out=== There are a few restaurants at the northern side of Meydan square on the street "İskele Cd.". Most menus revolve around meat or fish dishes. Fast-food stores and kebab shops can be found at the western end of the square. If you are fond of pastries, sweets and ice-cream, there are many places along Uzun Sokak selling baklava, helva and dondurma. The most famous pastry store is '''[https://betonhelva.com.tr/ Beton Helva]''', where they combine helva and ice cream. Most food in Trabzon is cooked to a high hygienic standard, and additionally most restaurants give you free hand wipes to clean your hands before and after eating food. ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Onur Midye & Balık & Kokoreç | alt= | url= | email= | address=Devlet Sahil Yolu Cd | lat=41.0051944 | long=39.7274895 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=A seafood restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Sebnem Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= Kemerkaya, Uzun Sok. Çinili Çarşı D:38 | lat=41.0053174 | long= 39.7279009| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Cemilusta | alt= | url= | email= | address=İskenderpaşa, Belediye Caddesi., Atatürk Alanı No:6 | lat=41.0056463 | long=39.7315896 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Popular restaurant at the Meydan square. }} * {{eat | name=Sofia Garden | alt= | url=https://sofiagarden.dijital.menu/ | email= | address=Zübeyde Hanım Cd 12 | lat= | long= | directions=100 m west of Hagia Sophia | phone=+90 462 223 1313 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:30-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Good menu selection and quality. }} * {{eat | name=Kalender Lokanta ve Kafe | alt=Kalender | lat=41.00458 | long=39.72701 | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Cozy cafe/restaurant just south of Trabzon Museum. }} * {{eat | name=Kulüp Bahçe Kafe | alt=Kulüp Garden Cafe | lat=41.0049 | long=39.7244 | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Small stylish garden restaurant with diverse day menu and live music. At no.7 Özüdoğru, a dead-end side street of Uzun Sokak. }} * {{eat | name=Tarihi Kalkanoğlu Pilavı | alt=| lat=41.0083 | long=39.7211 | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=A historic restaurant established in 1856 serving traditional dishes around pilav. }} * {{eat | name=Trabzon Architects Union Garden Cafe | alt=Trabzon Mimarlar Odası Bahce Cafe | lat=41.0073 | long=39.7280 | lastedit= | content=A relaxed green garden cafe with a small menu. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Bordo Mavi | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0062 | long=39.7273| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Relaxed garden restaurant of Trabzonspor fanclub, next to the Trabzonspor Museum. One of the only restaurants in the city center that servers wine and spirits. }} ===Akçaabat specialties and restaurants=== Akçaabat, the historic village Platana, some 10&nbsp;km west of the city, is renowned throughout Turkey for its special kind of meatballs, called '''Akcaabat koftesi'''. Made with ground meat, garlic and bread it's very delicious with '''ayran'''(yogurt mixed with water) and '''piyaz''' (beans, lettuce). There are plentiful quality restaurants in Akcaabat town such as {{marker|type=eat|name=[https://www.nihatusta.com/ Nihat Usta]|lat=41.06347|long=39.52023}}, {{marker|type=eat|name=Keyvan|lat=41.05692|long=39.52857}}, {{marker|type=eat|name=[https://cemilusta.com.tr/ Cemil Usta]|lat=41.02300|long=39.57228}}, {{marker|type=eat|name=Korfez Restaurant|lat=41.02867|long=39.56326}}. You can have a walk and drink tea after dinner in Akcaabat Fisher Port. You can also try "kiymali" which is made with meat and served with butter. Don't forget to visit the historic neighborhood with its dozens of timber mansions when you are in Akçaabat. == Drink == * '''Water''' from the tap is safe to drink but heavily chlorinated, you may prefer bottles. Few restaurants serve alcohol in the city center. Among them (listed above) are Bordo Mavi and {{marker|type=drink|name=Trabzon Şehir Kulübü Restaurant|lat=41.00524|long=39.72488}} in Nemlioğlu Cemal Sokak (sidestreet of Uzun Sokak). Other options are a bit further from the center, between Trabzon and Akcaabat, such as {{marker|type=drink|name=[https://www.tirvanarestaurant.com/ Tirvana]|lat=41.01261|long=39.61301}} or {{marker|type=drink|name=Marina|lat=41.02389|long=39.56947}}. A lot of the more traditional restaurants offer non-alcoholic cocktails. Luckily, because Trabzon is a student city, there is still quite a broad choice between music venues compared to other Turkish cities. ===Coffee & tea=== [[Image:Trabzon2 RIMG0860.JPG|thumb|right|270px|View from Boztepe tea garden.]] They are hidden within the shopping complex Canbakkal İş Merkezi, a few blocks to the west of Atatürk Alani square. '''[https://www.kahvedunyasi.com/ Kahve Durağı]''' and {{marker|type=drink|name=Edward's Coffee|lat=41.00466|long=39.72844}} offer many kinds of coffee and cakes. Cinema-themed {{marker|type=drink|name=sineK|lat=41.00465|long=39.72804}}, next to Royal Cinema also offers western (and Turkish) coffee and tea. It is a kind of hip place where young Trabzonites come to play games after going to the movies. You might need to make reservations (like for most popular or trendy restaurants in the city). {{marker|type=drink|name=Time's Coffee Restaurant|lat=41.00582|long=39.72888}} on Kahramanmaraş Cad. offers coffee and more with a rooftop view of the city. It is on the 7th floor of the Silk Road Business Center. A hot glass of locally grown black tea is served at the many tea gardens throughout the city, most of them located in public parks. The gardens with the best views can be found on Boztepe hill, just southeast of the city center. Other notable tea gardens are located in Fatih park just south of meydan square, and at Atapark just west of the historic walled city. As of Feb 2022, the Ganita tea garden, with its seaside location and view of the old Genoese fort, is closed due to renovation work. * {{drink | name=Boztepe tea garden | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.9971 | long=39.7293| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Watch the sun set from the hill overlooking the city. }} * {{drink | name=Ganita tea garden | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.008020 | long=39.733815| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The tea garden right next to the old Genoese fortress Leonkastron. }} ===Nightlife=== * {{drink | name=BARikat rock bar | url= | email= | address=Ahmet Selim Teymur Sokak Nr. 1 | lat=41.0057 | long=39.7294| directions=one block west of Meydan square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Rooftop rock bar. | lastedit=2021-05-04 }} * {{drink | name=Sahne bar| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0052 | long=39.7248| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Live music bar. }} * {{drink | name=Şişman Efes Pub | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0054 | long=39.7297| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Centrally located, one part is men-only, the other is mixed. }} * {{drink | name=Altmış Bir'a (61'a)| url= | email= | address= | lat=41.0048 | long=39.7305| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Football pub of Trabzonspor fans. }} * {{drink | name=Biravoo Pub| url= | email= | address= | lat= 41.00565 | long=39.73182| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=No frills interior, but unlike most bars in Trabzon it has a kitchen. }} == Sleep == === Budget === The cheapest hotels are down from Atatürk Square towards the port, but many are brothels. Business is conducted in an orderly manner and the area is safe. * {{sleep | name=Şanlı Otel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Terminal Sk 4 | lat= | long= | directions=100 m south of Otogar | phone=+90 462 332 0777 | tollfree= | checkin=1 | checkout= | price=B&B double 2000 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=A cheap and convenient hotel very close to the Otogar. }} * '''[https://www.hotelhoron.com/ Hotel Horon]''' is central at Sıramağazalar Cd 125. === Mid-range === * {{sleep | name=Hotel Nur | alt= | url= | email= | address=Doktor Kemal Dursun Sk 15 | lat=41.0048 | long=39.7324 | directions= | phone=+90 462 323 0445 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 2000 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Simple downtown place. }} * {{sleep | name=Ural Otel | alt= | url=https://www.otelural.com/ | email= | address=Güzelhisar Cd 1 | lat=41.0059 | long=39.7335 | directions= | phone=+90 462 321 1414 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Basic place near the ferry port. }} * '''Otel Efe''' is opposite Ural Otel at Güzelhisar Cd 6, similar quality. * {{sleep | name=Usta Park Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Şehit İbrahim Karaoğlanoğlu Cd 6 / 1 | lat=41.0056 | long=39.7328 | directions= | phone=+90 462 326 5700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 2500 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Clean and central, small rooms. }} * '''[https://www.sumelaparkotel.com/ Sumela Park Hotel]''' is at Şehit İbrahim Karaoğlanoğlu Cd 14, next to Usta Park. Mixed reviews. === Splurge === * {{sleep | name=DoubleTree by Hilton Trabzon | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/tzxgidi-doubletree-trabzon/ | email= | address=Barbaros Hayrettin Paşa Cd 43 | lat=41.0118 | long=39.6149 | directions= | phone=+90 462 455 0000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 4000 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Good value hotel on the coast on the highway to Akçaabat. }} * {{sleep | name=Ramada Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/tr-tr/ramada/trabzon-turkiye/ramada-plaza-trabzon/overview | email= | address=Rize Cd 23 | lat=40.9856 | long=39.8172 | directions= | phone=+90 462 335 3030 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 5000 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Smart hotel 3 km east of the airport. Spacious, with restaurants and bars. }} * '''[https://all.accor.com/hotel/B8D9/index.id.shtml Movenpick]''' is next to the Ramada at 22 Rize Cd. * {{sleep | name=Novotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6710/index.en.shtml | email= | address=Dunya Ticaret Sk 9, Yomra | lat=40.9692 | long=39.8392 | directions= | phone=+90 462 455 9000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 5000 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Good beachfront location and comfy rooms, but many adverse reports for reception and service. }} * {{sleep | name=Zorlu Grand Otel | alt= | url=https://www.zorlugrand.com/ | email= | address=Kahramanmaraş Cd 9 | lat=41.0056 | long=39.7287 | directions= | phone=+90 462 326 8400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double 5000 TL | lastedit=2025-07-01 | content=Very central, good service and comfort, but the a/c can't cope with hot weather. }} * {{sleep | name=Inan Kardesler Hotel | alt= | url=https://inankardeslerotel.com/en/ | email=inan@inankardeslerotel.com | address=Uzungöl Mah. Fatih Cad. No:25/A | lat=40.618722 | long=40.303837 | directions= | phone=+90 4626566260 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2020-05-02 | content= }} == Learn == * [https://uek.ktu.edu.tr/ Karadeniz Technical University] (''Karadeniz Teknik Üniversitesi'' or KTÜ), founded in 1955, has 32,000 students and 2200 teaching staff. Most teaching is in Turkish but a few courses are English. The main campus is Kanuni near the airport, with a dozen others across the province. * [https://avrasya.edu.tr/ Avrasya University] is a private university founded in 2010, with 3 city campuses. ==Stay healthy== In general the quality of food and drinks in Trabzon is fine, but tap water in the city is heavily chlorinated. In the mountain villages tap water has been connected to local springs and is absolutely safe to drink. Fresh dairy produce are delicious but if you are unaccustomed to this, it could upset your stomach. Very few local dishes contain a large amount of oil (or are wrongly prepared that way), but butter and cheese are a staple. Most of the vegetables and fruit that you can buy at markets in the province are grown locally in an organic way, so they are perfectly safe to eat. If you see wild fruit next to the road while on a hiking or biking trip, it is placed there for travellers to enjoy. But be aware of the local poisonous 'mad honey' (''deli bal''), which is derived by bees from the flowers of poisonous Rhododendron species. This hallucinogenic honey is legally sold in Turkey and can be acquired from roadside stalls. Most beekeepers are, however, unlikely to sell it to tourists. ==Stay safe== Trabzon is generally a safe city for visitors and has low crime rates. As the city is not touristic, you will not be bothered by pushers of restaurants or shop owners in the bazaar quarter. During the 1990s and early 2000s there was a problem with street prostitution around the harbor due to the collapse of the economies of the neighboring ex-Soviet states. This problem has mostly been tackled, and the city's nightlife is now also safe and comfortable for women. The mountainous hinterland of the city is also safe, but rather sparsely populated. It is not recommended to travel in these remote areas alone, but if well prepared it is possible to do a bicycle camping trip by yourself. If you plan on hiking in the forested mountains, be sure to read about how to [[Dangerous animals#Dealing with bear encounters|deal with bear encounters]]. == Connect == Trabzon and its approach roads have 4G from all Turkish carriers. As of July 2025, 5G has not rolled out in Turkey. ==Cope== ===Police=== * {{listing | name=Taksim police station|alt=Taksim Polis Merkezi Amirliği |lat=41.0038 | long=39.7310|content=The police station just south of Meydan square}} ===Hospitals=== * {{listing | name=Imperial Hospital|alt=İmperial Hastanesi|lat=41.0083 | long=39.7276|lastedit=2022-03-26|content= Hospital in the center of the city. PCR-Test available for 350TRY (March 2022)}} * {{listing | name=Trabzon Research and Education Hospital|alt=Trabzon Kanuni Eğitim Ve Araştırma Hastanesi|lat=41.0055|long=39.7071|content= Hospital in the western part of the city.}} * {{listing | name=Adnan Menderes University Research and Application Hospital|lat=40.9998|long=39.7396|content=Hospital in the eastern part of the city.}} * {{listing | name=Farabi Hospital|alt=Farabi hastanesi|lat=40.9944|long=39.7661|content=University Hospital at Karadeniz Technical University near the Airport.}} * {{listing | name=Fatih State Hospital|alt=Fatih Devlet Hastanesi|lat=41.0012|long=39.7015|content=State hospital in the west of the city.}} ===Consulates=== * {{flag|Georgia}} {{listing | name=Consulate of Georgia| alt= | url= | email= | address=Pertevpasa sokak 10 |lat=41.0038 | long=39.7193 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=EU citizens don't require a visa for Georgia or can get it at the border. Thus it is not necessary for them to visit this consulate. }} * {{flag|Iran}} {{listing | name=Consulate of Iran | alt=İran Konsolosluğu | url= | email= | address=Taksim Caddesi, Kızıltoprak Sokak 3 | lat=41.0021 | long=39.7313 | directions=just south of the central square| phone=+90 462 3267651 | fax=+90 462 3267652 | hours= | price=| content=Many travellers (especially Europeans) report of getting a visa easily and quickly (i.e. in a single day) here. As of 2013, the consulate will issue visas to nationals of Anglophone countries (including Great Britain, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Canada), but only with a reference number from an approved travel agent. }} * {{flag|Russia}} {{listing | name=Consulate of Russia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Refik Cesur Caddesi 6 | lat=41.004 | long=39.71989 | directions=in an imposing building made of volcanic rock in the old Ortahisar district | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Although getting a Russian visa for EU citizens usually require several weeks to process, in this embassy a visa can be obtained within a few hours. }} ==Go next== ===In Turkey=== * [[Rize]] — capital of the province to the east of Trabzon in the heart of Turkey's tea growing region. The deeply pious city has some touristic attractions, such as a historic neighborhood and a castle, but mainly functions as a stop-over for those heading to the Firtina-valley and [[Ayder]] - a village near the Kaçkar peaks, the highest point of the Pontic Mountains. The local people are known for the quality of their dairy produce, honey, and variety of pastries, which you may find at stores in the city, and at other major towns in the province. * [[Giresun]] (W 175&nbsp;km) — capital of the province to the west of Trabzon, standing out with its lively nightlife; trips to a nearby island with lush vegetation can be arranged from here. The mountains behind Giresun don't reach as high as those in Trabzon province, but offer much of the same natural and cultural beauty - without foreign tourists. * [[Gümüşhane]] - via the Zigana Pass and [[Torul]]. Take the same path as many famous travellers before you like Xenophon and Marco Polo and cross the Zigana Pass to the south of the city. * [[Kars]] — via [[Bayburt]] and [[Artvin]]. Cross the Pontic Mountains to the mountain fortress city of Bayburt, visit the hidden Georgian churches along the Çoruh river towards Artvin and end up in Kars - a good jump point to the nearby ancient ruins of [[Ani]]. From Kars you can either head to Georgia or south-eastern Turkey. During this trip you will see very different landscapes. * [[Tonya]] to escape the heat and visit the surrounding green mountains. ===Abroad=== * [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]] via [[Batumi]]. Follow thousands of Trabzonites to their favorite weekend destination, the Georgian beach holiday resort town Batumi, with its clubs and casinos, 3 hours drive east. * [[Iran]] via [[Doğubeyazıt]] - Historically Iran was reached by Europeans through the Trabzon-Tabriz route via the Zigana-pass south of the city. This is still the main route connecting the city to Anatolia. {{routebox | image1=D010-TR.svg | image1a=E70-TR.svg | imagesize1=40 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Samsun]] | minorl1=[[Giresun]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Rize]] | minorr1=[[Sürmene]] | image2=E97-TR.svg | imagesize2=40 | directionl2=N | majorl2=Merges with [[File:D010-TR.svg|35px]][[File:E70-TR.svg|35px]] (E) | minorl2= | directionr2=S | majorr2=[[Erzurum]] | minorr2=[[Torul]] }} {{guidecity}} {{geo|41.0000|39.7333}} {{isPartOf|Eastern Karadeniz}} hqaa251x2h79ig1cr43r9ri8j8pv8kz 0 37155 5090947 5088684 2025-07-10T16:28:21Z Chongkian 70395 /* Monasteries */ Updated listing for Gandantegchinlen Monastery - update photo 5090947 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Ulanbataar panorama banner.jpg|dotm=yes}} '''Ulaanbaatar''' ''(Улаанбаатар)'' — also '''Ulan Bator''', '''UB''', or in the local language, '''Khot''' ("the city") — is the capital and the largest city of [[Mongolia]]. With more than 1.6 million residents as of 2023, Ulaanbaatar is home to roughly half of Mongolia's population and serves as the starting point for pretty much all travel around Mongolia. Founded and established by warlords of the Mongol Empire in the 16th century, Ulaanbaatar is roughly 1,300-1,400 meters above sea level and is situated on a valley in the Tuul River. Ulaanbaatar is a modern and clean city populated with beautiful landmarks such as the Green Palace, universities such as the National University of Mongolia, fancy skyscrapers, hotels, monasteries, museums, and malls showcasing local and international brands. A number of national parks and protected areas (the [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]] being the most popular one) belong to the city. Due to its high elevation and distance from any major body of water, Ulaanbaatar has the onerous distinction of being the world's coldest capital city. Ulaanbaatar winters are notorious for being harsh, dry, and bitterly cold; winter temperatures range from -20° to -50° Celsius. ==Understand== [[image:UB downtown.jpg|thumb|400px|Downtown Ulaanbaatar in 2015]] Ulaanbaatar has many different and distinct layers. Long gone are the days when this city was just a typical, drab Soviet-bloc town in the middle of nowhere. One can witness the traditional, the Soviet, and the super-modern, all within a 5 minute walk through the city. Ulaanbaatar lies in the ''Altan Tevshiin Kundii'' (Valley of the Golden Cradle). Here the rivers Selbe and Tuul meet at the foot of the imposing Bogd Uul Mountain. In the forested and watered zone of northern Mongolia, it resides near the 2,000-year-old royal tombs of the Xiongnu, the 8th-century Turkic inscription of General Tonyukuk, and the birthplace of Genghis Khan. From the 20,000-year-old Paleolithic settlement on the Zaisan monument to the 12th century palace of the Nestorian Christian monarch Toghrul, there is a lot to learn and discover about this deep first layer of Ulaanbaatar. The second layer is the ''Urga'' or ''Örgöö'' of 1639-1778 — what would become Ulaanbaatar was established as a nomadic monastic center for the spiritual leader Zanabazar in 1639 — 230 kilometres (143 miles) southwest of today's Ulaanbaatar. The monastic center moved repeatedly and eventually settled at its present location in 1778, along a trading route between Russia and China. This mobile monastery era survives today as cultural forms (Genghisid memory, Mongolian temple architecture, wooden-fenced ger districts, Mongolian script, and Buddhism, traditional clothing, festivals, wrestling, music), and as physical artifacts kept in museums (Zanabazar masterpieces). The third layer is the late Qing dynasty Urga of 1778-1924 which can be found in surviving buildings such as the Gandan monastery. The fourth layer is the socialist period of 1924-1990 which saw the destruction of temples, the confiscation of private property, and Stalinist purges, but also the emergence of Mongolia as a modern, independent nation with Ulaanbaatar as its showcase. It was in this period that the city was named ''Ulaanbaatar khot'', literally "''Red Hero City''". The fifth layer, corresponding to the decade of the 1990s, was a stagnant period marked by poverty and bread lines which left a poor impression on the few visitors who passed through the city after its opening from communism. The newest sixth layer is the Ulaanbaatar of 2000 to the present, which saw the city over double in size to its current 1.6 million. However, while the center now has glittery skyscrapers, fashion boutiques and epic traffic jams, many poor migrants huddle in ''ger'' (yurt) districts on the outskirts of the city without basic amenities like running water and sewage. The residents of the ''ger'' districts have effectively become refugees in their own country, as the government has attempted to clamp down on rural-to-urban migration by not allowing new arrivals to register in the city, thus depriving them of the ability to access healthcare, employment and education in some instances. [[File:The private sector with yurts against the backdrop of high-rise new buildings in Ulaanbaatar.jpg|thumb|300x300px|A ''ger'' neighborhood next to a high-rise neighborhood, on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar.]] ===Orientation=== Peace Avenue (''Enkh Taivny Örgön Chölöö'') is the main street, stretching from east to west through the center with shopping and restaurants all along it. This street dates back to old Urga when it was called the ''Chölöö'' (Broad Avenue). The Chinese financed its paving in the 1950s. The street passes by the southern edge of the central square, '''Sükhbaatar Square''', which has roots in the central square of old Urga. The tourist information office is in the south flank of the town hall in the western corner of Chinggis Square. The city center is defined by the ''Ikh Toiruu'' (Great Ring Road) which has its origin in the prayer route of pilgrims circling the central temple-palace complex of Urga. Peace Avenue crosses the middle of the ring road horizontally while the southern part of the ring road is the Narnii Zam road ("Road of the Sun" built with Japanese support). South of the Narni Zam road is the affluent southern part of Ulaanbaatar with luxury apartments lining the Tuul River. Ger districts line the northern part of the city center and stretch 7 km north to the '''Dambadarjaalin Monastery''' built in 1765. North of Dambadarjaalin Monastery starts the ''Zuslan'' or summer vacation area, where charming summer houses stretch 14 km to Khandgait. Many families in Ulaanbaatar have a ''zuslan'' building (similar to Russian ''dachas'') where they spend the summer among the forests and natural scenery of the Selbe river valley. Some herding families graze their horses and cows freely in this area. The scenery gets more dramatic going east towards the Terelj area with big rock formations and wildflower valleys. Tours go past Terelj to the 1740 '''Gunjiin Sum Princess Temple''' and the '''Khagiin Khar''' lake. The southern edge of Ulaanbaatar is marked by its boundary with the town of Zuunmod on the south side of the Bogd Uul mountain. The 1778 shrine of '''Tsetsee Gun''' on the peak and the 1747 ruins of the '''Manjusri Monastery''' are on top of the mountain. South of the mountain starts an endless sea of grassland steppe gradually merging into the [[Gobi]] Desert 300 km south of UB. Day trips to the east include the '''Tsonjin Boldog Genghis Khan Statue'''. Day trips to the west include the '''Hustai Nuruu National Park''', '''Aglag Meditation Center''' and '''Ögii Lake'''. ===History=== At the time when Ulaanbaatar was founded as Urga in 1639 by Genghisid nobles, Mongolia was actually a serious contender for power in East Asia. The last Great Khan, Ligdan, had died in 1634, and the Manchu were rising in the east — but the independent Mongols had been revitalized by a Buddhist renaissance in the 1570s, and raids under Altan Khan were carried out as far afield as [[Beijing]]. A firmer union of the Western Oirats and Eastern Genghisids would have sufficed to fend off the Manchus. The 1640 Mongol-Oirat Code of Law united the East and West, but this union failed to last long. What did survive from this period was the union of the Eastern Mongols cemented in 1639 with the founding of Urga. The Mongol nobles installed one of their own, Zanabazar, the son of Tüsheet Khan Gombodorj (1594-1655) and a direct descendant of Genghis Khan, as the supreme lama of the Mongols. His residence, called '''Örgöö''' or Urga, meaning "palace-yurt", was some 250 km west of the current site of the city, near the ancient Mongol capital of [[Karakorum]]. In 1651, the first Jebtsundamba Khutughtu, Zanabazar, returned from studies in [[Tibet]] and established seven monastic departments in Urga. The mobile monastery gradually became a mobile city, moving every few years as needed. Urga was moved 25 times between its founding in 1639 and settling in its current location in 1778, by which time it had several thousand tents and temples and was served by trade routes from [[China]] and [[Russia]]. It was also estimated to have about 10,000 monks. The Gandan Monastery was established in 1809 and became the center of learning for all of Mongolia, and one of the most important monasteries in Tibetan Buddhism.[[image:Jugder 001.jpg|thumb|400px|Ulaanbaatar (Urga) in 1913]]The city continued to grow through the 19th century as a provincial capital of the Qing Empire and a center of religion and trade. Russian influence in Mongolia became significant in the late 18th century, and a two-story Russian consulate was opened in 1865 as an upgrade from the 18th century wooden quarters of the Russian representative. Mongolia was, in practice, a buffer between Russia and China, with plenty of local autonomy through the Bogd Jebtsundamba and Mongolian nobles. In 1911, the 8th Bogd Khan declared independence from China, leading to a long unstable period in the city's history including an occupation by a Chinese warlord in 1919. However, the Chinese were expelled by the [[Belarus|White Russian]] Roman von Ungern-Sternberg, aka the "Mad Baron", in 1921. This forced the Soviet Union to intervene and set up a puppet state in what was then known as Outer Mongolia. The country was nominally independent but essentially a satellite state of the USSR. In 1924, the city's name changed from Urga to Ulaanbaatar ("Red Hero"). Many of the monasteries and temples were destroyed in the religious purges of the 1930s. Following the end of the Second World War, the old ''ger'' districts were largely cleared for Soviet-style city apartments, offices, and factories. The [[Trans-Siberian Railway|Trans-Mongolian Railway]] was completed in 1956, connecting Ulaanbaatar to Beijing and [[Moscow]]. Gandan Monastery was reopened during a visit by US Vice President Henry Wallace in 1944, when he asked to see a monastery. Since the democratic revolution in 1990, the population of the city has almost tripled from 540,600 (1989) to 1.6 million (2020) - with thousands moving in from the countryside. The commercial and residential real estate sectors have boomed since 2000, though large factories have closed and much of the city still lives in the slum-like ''ger'' districts. ===Climate=== {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = -15.5 | febhigh = -9.4 | marhigh = -.2 | aprhigh = 10.4 | mayhigh = 17.8 | junhigh = 23.1 | julhigh = 25.2 | aughigh = 23.0 | sephigh = 17.2 | octhigh = 7.7 | novhigh = -4.8 | dechigh = -13.7 | janlow = -25.6 | feblow = -21.7 | marlow = -12.6 | aprlow = -3.3 | maylow = 3.5 | junlow = 10.3 | jullow = 13.5 | auglow = 11.1 | seplow = 4.1 | octlow = -4.5 | novlow = -15.1 | declow = -22.9 | janprecip = 2.1 | febprecip = 2.8 | marprecip = 4.6 | aprprecip = 8.4 | mayprecip = 21.7 | junprecip = 47.2 | julprecip = 74.5 | augprecip = 65.4 | sepprecip = 27.9 | octprecip = 8.6 | novprecip = 6.3 | decprecip = 3.5 | description = NOAA (1991-2020) }} Although summer daytime temperatures are mild and average around {{c|24}} and nights around {{C|13}}, the city shivers in sub-zero temperatures for five months of the year. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures hovering between {{c|-15}} to {{c|-30}} at night. As a result of these prolonged periods of intense cold, the city has an average annual temperature of {{c|.2}}, giving it the dubious distinction of being the world's coldest capital. The cold is dry, however, and there is not much wind chill due to temperature inversion. Heat island effect also means the city center is warmer than the outskirts. Summer can be very hot at times, with several days above {{c|31}} and warmer nights above {{c|17}}, so one should avoid heat stress and use sunscreen when necessary. The sun is up from 05:00 to 20:45 in June, and from 08:30 to 17:00 in the winter. If you have breathing problems, be aware that Ulaanbaatar has high levels of air pollution during the winter. However, away from the city, the countryside air is gorgeous. In winter, air pollution starts at 19:00, when ''ger'' district residents start burning coal for heat, and lasts till about 10:00 the next morning. It is severe in northern parts of the city close to the ''ger'' districts, but gets sparse going south from Chinggis Square and is almost absent near Zaisan, at the southern edge of the city where there are no ''ger'' districts. The air pollution lifts in early March and the city remains pollution-free (excluding car exhaust) until November. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Chinggis Khaan International Airport | alt={{IATA|UBN}}, Чингис хаан олон улсын нисэх буудал, New Ulaanbaatar International Airport | url=https://en.ulaanbaatar-airport.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.651581 | long=106.821772 | directions=52 km south of Ulaanbaatar | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chinggis Khaan International Airport | image=Chinggis Khan International Airport.jpg | wikidata=Q837745 | content=Opened in 2021, this Japanese-built airport has now taken over all domestic and international flights, replacing the old Buyant-Ukhaa Airport which also formerly known as Chinggis Khaan International Airport. }} '''[https://en.ulaanbaatar-airport.mn/bus-route Getting to the airport]''' takes about 50-100 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport buses run from 6:20 AM to midnight, but taxis and the new Ulaanbaatar Airport shuttle are more reliable. Taxis cost a steep 85,000-120,000 ₮ depending on your destination, be sure to agree on the price in advance. There are also shared taxis for 30,000MNT. The Ulaanbaatar Airport Shuttle costs 20,000 MNT - 30,000 MNT depending on the size of the shuttle. Many of the higher-end hotels will offer a shuttle service to/from the airport for a nominal fee. ===By train=== [[File:Ulaanbaatar Railway Station.jpg|thumb|Ulaanbaatar Train Station]] Direct (if long) journeys are possible from destinations between Moscow and Beijing on the Trans-Mongolian line of the [[Trans-Siberian Railway]]. Ulaanbaatar-bound trains leave Beijing once a week, on Wednesday, and seats can only be reserved at the International Hotel in Beijing, a ten-minute walk north of the main rail station. The journey takes about 30 hours. Packing a face mask is a good idea as sandstorms in the Gobi desert may cause difficulty in breathing. Shorter-haul trains also run to the Chinese border towns of [[Erlian]] and [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)|Jining]] 3-4 times a week. Ulaanbaatar's {{marker|type=go|name=train station|lat=47.90865|long=106.88395}} is on Narni Zam road, about 3 km west of the city centre. The cheapest option is the daily 18:05 departure to Zamyn Uud on the Mongolian side of the Chinese border. You can buy a connecting bus ticket from Zamyn Uud to Erlian on the Chinese side for 10000₮ in the railway office in Ulaanbaatar. After COVID-19 related suspending for 3 years, train service between China and Mongolia was restored, but only between Ulaanbaatar and [[Erenhot]]. In Moscow, trains to Ulaanbaatar depart Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays (the latter two are express runs), for a journey that lasts 100 hours or a little over 4 days. There's also a daily train to/from [[Irkutsk]], which can also be reached from [[Vladivostok]] at the eastern end of the Trans-Siberian. ===By car=== What few paved roads exist in Mongolia generally go to and from Ulaanbaatar. Thus, getting to UB from elsewhere in Mongolia on a ''paved'' road is very easy, because all you have to do is just follow the pavement. However, if you're driving one of the dirt tracks that characterize the majority of the country's road network, it pays to have a map, and if [[Offroad driving|off-roading]] is part of your itinerary, it pays to have a local guide/driver. Coming from the '''north''', the paved road starts at the Russian border at [[Sühbaatar]]. Coming from the '''south''', the paved road starts at the Chinese border at [[Zamyn-Üüd]], passing through the vast Gobi Desert along the way. Coming from the '''northeast''', the paved road starts at [[Bulgan]]. Finally, from the '''west''', the road starts in either [[Bayanhongor]] in the southwest or [[Tsetserleg]] further north. ===By bus=== [[File:New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal.jpg|thumb|New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Bus Terminal]] Once in the country, it should not be difficult to find a bus going to UB, at least from larger towns. However, bus stops are difficult to locate, with buses usually just stopping in populated areas. Furthermore, Mongolian buses are notorious for being late — in some cases by a day or more. Buses from Russia, the west, north and south usually go to Dragon Center, while those from China and the east go to Bayanzurkh bus station, just east of the Officer Monument at the east end of Peace Avenue. * {{go | name=New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal | alt=драгон | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91053 | long=106.8205 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal.jpg | content=The primary bus station for all buses going to the [[Western Mongolia|west]], [[Northern Mongolia|north]], and the Gobi. }} * {{listing | name=Botanical Gardens | alt=ботаник | type=go | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91272 | long=106.99319 | directions=1 km east of the eastern traffic circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The gardens have been completely destroyed, but the location is well known to the locals. Serves inter-city buses to [[Eastern Mongolia]]. }} * {{listing | name=Tenger Plaza | alt= | type=go | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=east of the city center, southeast of Mongolia International University and MIU bus stop | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Buses depart to various national destinations. Buses to [[Zamyn-Üüd]], the main border crossing to China, depart at 07:00 and 21:00, arriving there about 10 hours later, with some buses continuing across the border to Erlian. }} From Russia, there are also UB-bound buses from [[Ulan Ude]], leaving at 07:30 from the '''old bus station''' ''(Старый Автовокзал)'' via the Altanbulag border crossing. The trip usually takes about 12 hours, including customs processing — much faster than the train — and tickets cost {{RUB|1800}} one-way. Night buses leave on Fridays and Sundays at 19:00. Buses arrive and depart from the Dragon Bus station. Any travel agency should be able to book tickets or you can buy them at either bus station. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|47.91729|106.90815|zoom=11|width=700|height=430|layer=MP}} Street names are rarely known by Mongolians, and they usually only appear on maps and official addresses. Official addresses list the district, microdistrict (usually a large block bounded by major streets), and the building number. However, since blocks can have dozens of buildings, with more continuously being squeezed in between existing ones, addresses are not very helpful for navigation. Instead, it's best to have directions for major landmarks using lots of descriptions (i.e. "turn right at the first traffic signal west of the State Department Store"). Some major streets to know are '''Peace Avenue''', UB's main road which runs west-to-east in front of Chinggis Square; '''Chinggis Avenue''', running north-to-south on the east side of the square, then veering west toward the airport in front of Bogd Khan Winter Palace; and '''Seoul Street''', which runs west from Chinggis Avenue just south of Chinggis Square. ===By taxi=== If you stand in the street and hold out your arm, usually within seconds somebody will have stopped to pick you up. This system can be quick and reliable, especially during the cold winter, but it can cause problems as many drivers will only speak Mongolian. Taxis are cheap: the going rate is around 1000₮ per kilometer, but if you're a foreigner, they'll overcharge you and there's really no way to get around it completely. (In extreme circumstances, opportunistic younger drivers have been known to try to hold passengers or their luggage at ransom until they pay extraordinary amounts of money!) A good tip is to carry a small written note with an amount in ''tögrög'' (500₮, 1000₮, 1500₮, etc.) and show them exactly what you are willing to pay before you get on. If the driver does not seem aggressive, you can get yourself out of this situation by knowing a few local words - particularly yes, no, and any numbers. Remember, even if you pay 4000 ''tögrög'' for a journey, though this is a higher fare than a local would pay, it is still only just over $1. So use your judgement. The current price of gasoline is $5/gallon, 3710₮/litre, so you can judge whether some of these prices are realistic given market conditions. UB also now has a fleet of new white cabs with large LCD-screen fare meters on the dash. Always negotiate the fare in advance, don't be fooled by tricks like "I meant 3000₮ for each of you", and avoid random cars that offer taxi service. * {{listing | name=Help Taxi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 99652371 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=1000₮/km, minimum 4000₮, airport to city center 30,000₮ | content=Fluent English-speaking dispatch, all drivers have at least limited proficiency in English. Main taxi service for all the embassies. }} * {{listing | name=iTaxi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 77171717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=1000₮/km, airport to city center 20,000₮ | content=English-speaking dispatch, metered taxi rides, texts you when the taxi arrives to pick you up. }} * Download '''UBCab''' to order taxis quickly to your location. You do not enter the destination into the app, but simply order the cab and then instruct the driver where to go once you get in. ===By bus=== [[File:Sükhbaatar Square Parking Lot.jpg|thumb|Public bus in Ulaanbaatar]] Buses in UB come in several different varieties. At the top of the scale, regularly scheduled municipal buses operate on a widespread network that extends right to the outskirts of town, for a flat rate of 500₮. As well, there's an almost equally extensive network of '''microbuses''' charging from 300-500₮, distinguished by a person hanging out the window at each stop and shouting the name of the destination in rapid-fire Mongolian. Finally, there is also a cheaper (300₮) but slower and less extensive network of electric trolleybuses. To use the municipal and trolleybuses you need a U card, which can be purchased at many kiosks and shops for 3000₮. You load credit and touch it to the reader when entering the bus. If you touch it on the reader when getting off you can get a second ride for free if you board within 30 minutes. As in any city, be wary of pickpockets on the buses, especially when the buses are crowded. ===By foot=== Within the quite compact city center, walking is a viable option. Ulaanbaatar stretches from east to west along the aforementioned Peace Avenue, making navigating the center a cinch. Outside the center, in the ''ger'' districts, it's a different story entirely: a good city map, available at the airport or the '''Mongolian Government Map Shop''', is a must if you plan to go off the beaten path. You'll find the map shop directly on the Ikh Toiruu ring road: head west three blocks from the State Department Store, then turn right (north) at the first traffic light and proceed for about half a block. The Map Shop is behind the blue and yellow '''Elba Appliance''' store. ==See== Most tourist sites have a separate camera/video fee (typically 5000-10,000₮) in addition to the entrance fee. ===Monasteries=== [[File:Gandantegchinlen Monastery (2024).jpg|thumb|Gandantegchinlen Monastery]] [[File:Green Palace Bogd Khan 149185394 bfcc8db25b b.jpg|thumb|Bogd Khan Winter Palace]] * {{see | name=Choijin Lama Monastery | alt=Чойжин ламын сүм | url=http://www.templemuseum.mn/welcome | email=info@templemuseum.mn | address= | lat=47.91475 | long=106.91843 | directions=one block east of the National Library | phone=+976 11 32478 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-19:30 in summer, closed on Sundays and Mondays during winter | price=8000₮, students 3000₮, children 1500₮, photography fee 50,000₮ | wikipedia=Choijin Lama Temple | image=Choijin Lama Ulan Bator 149198611 958f1f4abd o.jpg | wikidata=Q2093410 | content=These five temples and five arched gates are a unique showcase of religious art and the history of Buddhism in Mongolia, a gem of 20th century Mongolian cultural heritage, and a fine example of Buddhist architecture. Choijin Lama Monastery was active until 1938, was inscribed in 1941 on the list of historical and cultural monuments, and became a museum the following year. In the main temple you'll find the sculpture of the Choijin Lama and the embalmed mummy of his teacher, as well as the great coral mask of Begtse, created under the direction of protectors using over 6,000 pieces of coral. Elsewhere in the complex, '''Yadam Temple''' and '''Amgalan Temple''' contain rare artifacts made by the famous Mongolian artist and sculptor, Zanabazar. }} * {{see | name=Gandantegchinlen Monastery | alt=Gandantegchinlen Khiid or Gandan Monastery | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92248 | long=106.89534 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=4000₮ | wikipedia=Gandantegchinlen Monastery | image=Gandantegchinlen Monastery (2024).jpg | wikidata=Q965633 | content=The main monastery in the city has services around 10:00 every morning. It is one of the few monasteries in the country that were spared during the Communist purges of the 1930s. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Bogd Khan Winter Palace Museum | alt=Богд хааны ордон музей | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.89666 | long=106.90783 | directions=about {{km|2.5}} south of Chinggis Square, on Chinggis Avenue in Khan Uul district | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00-17:00 | price=Admission 8000₮, 50,000₮ photography fee | wikipedia=Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan | image=Green Palace Bogd Khan 149185394 bfcc8db25b b.jpg | wikidata=Q1579833 | content=Built between 1893 and 1903 by Mongolian masters, this palace was dedicated to the VIII Bogd Gegeen, head of Tibetan Buddhism and Khan of Mongolia from 1911 until 1924 (the last three years of which were as a constitutional monarch). Upon his death, the palace became the first national historical museum of Mongolia. The museum contains twelve collections showcasing valuable objects and works of art from the 17th to early 20th centuries (notable among which are gilded bronze sculptures by the first Bogd Javzundamba Zanabazar and his school, 19th- and 20th century ''thangka'' paintings, a ''Jugder'' painting of Ulaanbaatar in 1912, and works by modern Mongolian painter B. Sharav), as well as personal possessions of the Khan and his wife, Queen Dondogdulam.. }} * {{see | name=Chinggis Khaan National Museum | alt=Чингис хаан Үндэсний музей | url=https://chinggismuseum.com/en | email=info@chinggismuseum.org | address=J. Sambuu's street, 4th khoroo, Chingeltei District | lat=47.922528 | long=106.914917 | directions=a short distance north of the parliament building | phone=+976 70212222 | tollfree= | hours=09:00-17:00, closed on Mondays during the winter period (1 October to 15 May) | price=Adult 30000₮, families 20000₮, students 15000₮, children 0₮, photo shooting 20000₮ | wikidata=Q120021719 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=International Intellectual Museum | alt=IQ Museum | url=http://www.iqmuseum.mn | email=mitgel@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91746 | long=106.94172 | directions=on Peace Avenue in Bayanzürkh district, in front of East Center | phone=+976 11 461470 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-18:00 | price=Admission for non Mongolians 15.000₮, children 500₮ | wikipedia=International Intellectual Museum | image=International Intellectual Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q10926251 | lastedit=2024-12-05 | content=This museum not only displays but also manufactures and exports a wide variety of traditional Mongolian puzzle toys, logic games, handcrafted products, and souvenirs, and has launched over 80 international exhibitions and fairs in 50 countries. }} * {{see | name=Natural History Museum | alt=Байгалийн түүхийн музей | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.9233 | long=106.9059 | directions=Freedom Square, next to Tengis Cinema and directly behind State Department Store; at the site of the former Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs | phone=+976 7000 0171 | tollfree= | hours=Th–M 10:00-18:00 (closed Tuesday and Wednesday) | price=Admission 2000₮ | wikipedia=Mongolian Natural History Museum | image=Natural History Museum (Ulaanbaatar).jpg | wikidata=Q2154359 | content=The complete fossil of the ''Tarbosaurus bataar'' — a close cousin of the larger T. Rex that serves as the centerpiece of this museum's impressive collection — was stolen from Mongolia by American archaeologist Eric Prokopi and auctioned in [[New York City|New York]] for $1 million. The ensuing news coverage set off an international criminal case resulting in Prokopi's arrest and the return of dozens of dinosaur fossils to Mongolia by the U.S. government, which make up the bulk of this museum's collection. In the former '''Lenin Museum''' on Freedom Square, the museum contains a couple dozen other complete dinosaur fossils besides the ''Tarbosaurus'', all of which were found in the Gobi Desert. }} * {{see | name=National Museum of Mongolia | alt=Монголын Үндэсний музей | url=http://nationalmuseum.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.92036 | long=106.91538 | directions=just west of the Government House | phone=+976 70110911, +976 70110913 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 08:00-22:00, last entry 20:30 | price=Admission 5000₮, photography fee 5000₮ | wikipedia=National Museum of Mongolia | image=National Museum of Mongolia (2023).jpg | wikidata=Q2154176 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=This is the main museum in the capital and should be a first stop on any visit to the city, as it holds the most important artifacts of Mongolia's rich history dating back several thousand years. These include ethnographic displays of various Mongolian tribes, petroglyphs and cave drawings, Turkic monuments, weapons, armor, and various displays from the various eras of Mongolian history: the Hun and Mongol Empires, Chinese rule, the Communist era, and the democratic revolution of 1990. There are displays of self-portraits and personal possessions of Genghis Khan and other great khans of the Mongol Empire. Most displays are in English and Mongolian... }} * {{see | name=Marshall Zhukov House Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.917972 | long=106.953 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19615122 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ulaanbaatar City Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.91806 | long=106.93583 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ulaanbaatar City Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q2368924 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=A museum established from a building built by a Soviet merchant. It used to house the embassy of the Tuvan People's Republic and a printing house. }} ===Art museums and galleries=== [[File:Akshobhya by Zanabazar.jpg|thumb|Akshobhya by Zanabazar, in the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts]] * {{see | name=National Art Gallery of Mongolia | alt= | url=http://www.art-gallery.mn/mn | email=info@art-gallery.mn | address= | lat=47.91961 | long=106.92109 | directions=at the Central Cultural Palace on Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 327177 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-18:00 | price=Admission 2000₮, students 1000₮, children 500₮ | wikipedia=National Art Gallery of Mongolia | image=National Art Gallery of Mongolia.jpg | wikidata=Q17034485 | content=A surprisingly good modern art museum that displays the vibrancy of the local art scene. There are temporary exhibits throughout the year as well as a permanent collection. }} * {{see | name=The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum | alt=Занабазарын нэрэмжит Дүрслэх урлагийн музей | url=http://www.zanabazarmuseum.mn/ | email=info@zanabazarfam.mn | address= | lat=47.92013 | long=106.90911 | directions=two blocks west of the Government House, on Barilgachdin Square | phone=+976 11 326060 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-17:00 (summer), 10:00-17:00 (winter) | price=Admission 5000₮ | image=The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q2370206 | content=The collection includes items from the Stone Age to the 20th century. Particularly interesting is the collection of Buddhist art from the 17th century and later.. }} * {{see | name=Mongolian Art Center for Children's Creativity | alt=Монголын хүүхдийн урлан бүтээх төв | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.926788 | long=106.916114 | directions=Ankara Street | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mongol Art Gallery | alt=Монгол Арт Галерейн | url= | email= | address=Dunjingarav Street | lat=47.904528 | long=106.948806 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q123347067 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Russian Science and Culture Center | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tokyo Street | lat=47.92625 | long=106.935278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Russian Science and Culture Center.jpg | wikidata=Q130382522 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Art House Center | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/arthouse.mongolia/ | email=arthousemn@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.920312 | long=106.907411 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-15 | content= }} ===Monuments and memorials=== [[File:Monumento ruso en Ulan Bator, Mongolia.jpg|thumb|Zaisan War Memorial]] * {{see | name=Sükhbaatar Square | alt=Сүхбаатарын талбай | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91898 | long=106.91777 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chinggis Square | image=Panorama Ulan Bator 13.JPG | wikidata=Q1348864 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=The big open space in the center of the city with an equestrian '''statue of Damdin Sükhbaatar''', warrior-hero of the 1921 People's Revolution, as well as a seated statue of Genghis Khan that sits at the door of the '''Government House'''. Inside the Government House is a small museum with artifacts from the Mongol Empire and a reproduction of Genghis Khan's White Peace Banners of State (the Soviets had the originals destroyed in the 1930s)... }} * {{see | name=Zaisan Memorial | alt=Зайсан толгой | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.885 | long=106.91564 | directions=about 3½ km directly south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Zaisan Memorial | image=World War II in Ulaanbaatar (6228546502).jpg | wikidata=Q144444 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=A huge Communist-era monument on a hill near the city depicting the Russian and Mongolian heroes who fought together during the First and Second World Wars. Nowadays it is a popular viewpoint where you can see over the whole city. There's also a huge Buddhist statue at the bottom. }} * {{see | name=Friendship Railways Height | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.909418 | long=106.883918 | directions=Right across the road in front of Ulaanbaatar Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Friendship Railways Height.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} Despite news about the removal of Lenin's statue, Ulaanbaatar still boasts a wealth of other interesting statues and public art beyond what's mentioned above. Prominently, former Communist leaders Choibalsan and Tsedenbal are memorialized north of the Government House, as is Sanjaasürengiin Zorig, leader of the 1990 democratic revolution, at a location southwest of Chinggis Square. There are also many lesser-known statues scattered through the city: there's a bust of Stalin inside a beer garden south of Chinggis Square, some old Soviet murals on the side of apartment buildings north of the Bogd Khan Winter Palace, and you'll even see The Beatles and the villain from the movie ''Predator'' holding court in front of the State Department Store and in front of a small office building 100 m northeast of there, respectively. ===Sport venues=== * {{see | name=AIC Steppe Arena | alt= | url=https://steppearena.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.847555 | long=106.793059 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65066205 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Buyant Ukhaa Sport Palace | alt= | url=http://www.sport.gov.mn/ | email= | address=Ulziit Road | lat=47.85444 | long=106.78417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4155958 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=UG Arena | alt= | url=https://ugarena.mn/ | email=marketing@urangan.mn | address= | lat=47.904667 | long=106.899266 | directions= | phone= +976 77712111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ===Parks, gardens and nature=== * {{see | name=National Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bayanzürkh | lat=47.898528 | long=106.947667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q131416188 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ulaanbaatar Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=corner of Narnii Road and Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.909162 | long=106.916782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ulaanbaatar Park.jpg | wikidata=Q131424861 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Yavuuhulan Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address=Noyon Hutagt Danzanravjaa Street | lat=47.918333 | long=106.909111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q131424582 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Korea-Mongolia Friendship Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dambadarjaa Street, Sükhbaatar | lat=47.984333 | long=106.949694 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Korea-Mongolia Friendship Forest | wikidata=Q131424610 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Amgalan Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.910082 | long=107.000472 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Günjiin Nüden Lake | alt=Гүнжийн Нүдэн Нуур | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.949191 | long=106.838245 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Do== ===Outdoors=== *'''Bogd Uul''', the mountain ridge south of town, is a great place for a hike. To get there, take the #7, #33 or #43 bus from in front of the Bayangol Hotel to the south end of the line. From there, the road continues south about 100 m, whereupon you'll come to a checkpoint. Proceed, bear left when the road forks, and you'll soon find yourself in a ''ger'' camp with a small stream flowing north. This is where the hiking path itself begins, on the left (east) side of the stream. At the top of the ridge, veer west and proceed through the woods for an easy amble of about two or three hours (you'll come to a high point about 500 m past the turn). At the end of that stretch, you have the option of either branching off to the west or else continuing straight and slightly east to Bogd Uul Mountain (this path is marked with orange paint marks on the trees). That part of the trip is quite long — about 10 km one-way — and more challenging, with varying elevations. *{{do | name=Sky Resort | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/skyresortofficial/ | email=info@skyresort.mn | address= | lat=47.8728 | long=107.04537 | directions=13 km from city center. Go south to Zaisan, then east along the river past the President's Residence | phone=+976 11 320345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=07:00-22:00 | price=Under US$20 | wikipedia=Sky Resort | wikidata=Q7537479 | content=A winter sports resort offering downhill skiing, snowboarding, lifts, equipment rental, ski and snowboard school, and an onsite restaurant. There's a free bus from the Drama Center (next to the Grand Khan Irish Pub) with departures between 08:00 and 19:30 (frequent service on weekends, more sporadic midweek; check schedule to verify bus times). }} [[Image:Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Naadam Festival in July]] ===Festivals=== * {{do | name=Naadam | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Sports Stadium (Mongolia) | image=Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg | wikidata=Q1451543 | content=The largest and most famous festival in Mongolia, Naadam is held annually from July 11-13 and consists of competitions in the three traditional Mongolian sports of wrestling, horse-racing and archery. The {{marker|type=do|name=National Sports Stadium|lat=47.90258|long=106.91538}}, besides being the main venue for the festival, also serves as the country's main football and baseball stadium as well as a venue for occasional concerts and cultural events. }} * {{do | name=Playtime Festival | alt= | url=https://playtimefestival.com/home_eng | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q121432894 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Mongolia's largest annual outdoor music festival. }} ===Theatre and performance=== * {{do | name=National Academic Drama Theater | alt=Улсын драмын эрдмийн театр | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91507 | long=106.91473 | directions=in the red Georgian building just south of the Post Office on Chinggis Avenue | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Prices vary, generally cheap for Mongolian-language performances | wikipedia=Mongolian State Academic Drama Theatre | image=State Academic Drama Theater.jpg | wikidata=Q6899648 | content=Mostly presents Mongolian plays in drama, musicals, or children's performances. Tickets are sold at the "KACC" office in front.... }} * {{do | name=ASA Arena | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91206 | long=106.90776 | directions=on Seoul Street south of the State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=ASA Arena | image=ASA Arena.jpg | wikidata=Q56284752 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Home to the world-famous Mongolian contortionists, where most of the world's professional contortionists get their start. The circus also features animals, jugglers, and other entertainment. }} * {{do | name=State Opera and Ballet Theater | alt=National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Mongolia | url=http://www.opera-ballet.mn | email=opera_ballet@yahoo.com | address=Chinggis Square | lat=47.91843 | long=106.91924 | directions=in the pinkish building on the southeast side of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Box office W-Su 10:00-13:00, 14:00-17:00 | price=Prices vary by performance, local productions can be very inexpensive | wikipedia=Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet | image=Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet.jpg | wikidata=Q559620 | content=While visiting Chinggis Square, it may be worthwhile to check out the board in front of this theatre to see if there is an upcoming performance. Most performances are at 17:00 Saturday and Sunday. Local performances may not be great, but are very cheap. Ballet troupes and opera companies from Russia also occasionally visit.. }} * {{do | name=Tumen Ekh | alt= | url=https://tumen-ekh.mn/ | email=info@tumen-ekh.mn | address= | lat=47.91277 | long=106.91609 | directions=south of the Main Square, west of Shangri-La hotel, in the Children's Palace | phone=+976 11 322238 | tollfree= | hours=Daily performances from May-Oct at 18:00, on weekdays in Oct-Nov 15th | price=30,000₮ | lastedit=2023-08-28 | content=A traditional dance ensemble founded in 1989 that performs dances, music and religious ceremonies for audiences of mostly foreign tourists. Performances last about an hour and are far from the usual tourist schlock: these very skilled artists take their work seriously and have been on tour in the U.S., UK and other countries. }} * {{do | name=Mongolian Theatre Museum | alt= | url=https://mongoliantheatremuseum.com/ | email= | address=Amar St | lat=47.9199 | long=106.9195 | directions=on the 3rd floor of the Central Cultural Palace Building | phone=+976 11 31 1320 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6899660 | lastedit=2023-12-19 | content=A performing arts museum founded in 1991 presenting the history of Mongolian film and theatre.. }} * {{do | name=Wrestling Palace | alt=Bökhiin Örgöö | url= | email= | address=Bayanzürkh | lat=47.917917 | long=106.935278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bökhiin Örgöö | image=Wrestling Palace.jpg | wikidata=Q2154011 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=Sports complex that is home to the Mongolian wrestling competitions and also hosts music concerts. }} * {{do | name=Ganzam Palace | alt=Ганзам палас | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.915134 | long=106.885202 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ganzam Palace.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{do | name=HUN Theater | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/HUNTheatre/ | email=info.huntheatre@gmail.com | address=Sky Resort Road | lat=47.879228 | long=107.042646 | directions= | phone=+976 77774488 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{do | name=Youth Theater | alt= | url=http://youththeatre.mn/ | email=info@youththeatre.mn | address= | lat=47.936977 | long=106.813443 | directions= | phone=+97675991133 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ===Miscellaneous=== * Get an inexpensive '''massage''' at one of the many massage spas on Peace Avenue. * {{do | name=National Amusement Park | alt=Үндэсний соёл амралтын хүрээлэн | url=https://www.facebook.com/park.mongolia | email= | address= | lat=47.90842 | long=106.9237 | directions=500 m south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:00-19:00 year round | price=1000₮ to enter plus extra for each ride | image=Mongolian National Amusement Park Castle.JPG | wikidata=Q110014267 | content=Open since 1969, the park today features a steel roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, a castle surround by an artificial lake, and bowling. }} ==Learn== The {{marker|type=listing|name=[http://mongoliacenter.org/ American Center for Mongolian Studies]|lat=47.91964|long=106.90870|zoom=18}} (ACMS) provides in-depth insight via an academic approach into Mongolian culture. The center has a study room and library of Mongolia-related material, with Internet access. It is on the campus of the '''Mongolian National University''', on the third floor of Building #5. As well, there are several '''Mongolian-language schools''' throughout the city. On Facebook look for various learning clubs or English-learning local clubs offering local meetups and you may attend some of them to learn local culture or to participate in interesting local activities. ==Buy== [[File:Socialist architecture (6216616617).jpg|thumb|Post-WWII architecture in the city center]] Cash is becoming less and less common, with many shops, eateries, and even street vendors and taxi drivers accepting bank transfer (using SMS or banking apps), QR code payment (multiple systems in use), and debit/credit cards. As a visitor, have cash and a paywave-enabled card. It's relatively easy to find an ATM to withdraw cash. Most ATMs accept foreign credit and debit cards to withdraw ''tögrög'' (the local currency) as long as you have informed your bank ahead of time as to your Mongolian travel plans; most will charge you a foreign currency conversion fee of about 3%. Besides Visa, other card types are also accepted, but not as widely: for example, the machines in the Central Post Office and along the main street will not accept foreign MasterCards, although they bear the logo. The only ATM that accepts Cirrus cards is the one at the airport. UB also has many banks and exchange offices where ''tögrög'' can be obtained. Golomt and TDB are the most reliable banks for currency exchange, the former of which can give up to US$500 per day cash advance on MasterCard and Visa and also accepts American Express. Exchange offices can mainly be found along Peace Avenue in the city center, including one on the ground floor of the '''State Department Store'''. However, you'll find better rates at the one on the second floor of the '''Flower Center''', on Peace Avenue one block west of the Post Office. Lastly, major hotels like the '''Ulaanbaatar Hotel''' will exchange money 24/7 at the reception, which may be your only option if you arrive very late in the day. Keep in mind that you'll need a form of ID to exchange foreign currency - a passport will do. See [[Mongolia#Money]] for exchange rates for the ''tögrög''. ===Major shopping centers=== * {{buy | name=State Department Store | alt=Улсын Их Дэлгүүр | url=https://www.facebook.com/UlsiinIkhDelguur | email= | address= | lat=47.917028 | long=106.90625 | directions=west of Chinggis Square on Peace Avenue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-22:00 | price= | wikidata=Q125944026 | content=Formerly a state-owned department store (hence the name), today it is the busiest luxury shopping mall in the city, with everything from groceries to cashmere to TVs sold on all six floors of the building. Though privately owned nowadays, the customer service still has a certain impersonal, bureaucratic feel. Check out the fifth floor for the largest souvenir shops in UB. }} * {{buy | name=3rd & 4th Microdistrict | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92285 | long=106.88144 | directions=northwest side of Gandan, 2 km north of the train station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=You'll find several malls, name-brand stores, restaurants, supermarkets, curbside booths, and a movie theater at UB's largest shopping district. Selection ranges from luxury brands down to cheap Chinese imports. Traffic congestion is heavy in this part of the city. }} * {{buy | name=Emart Department stores | alt=Emart | url= | email= | address= | lat=47 | long=106 | directions=at the north of Chingis Khaan hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-10-15 | image=Ulaanbaatar (22933227425).jpg | content=This subsidiary of the South Korean retailer has three department stores in Ulaanbaatar that offer mostly South Korean and some domestic goods. It has a good groceries department as well. The first store is just north of Chingis Khaan Hotel, the second is in Bayangol district, and the third is in Khan Uul district. }} * {{buy | name=Galleria Ulaanbaatar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/GalleriaUlaanbaatar | email= | address=Ikh Surguuli Street | lat=47.920583 | long=106.919111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130259098 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Gegeenten Entertainment Center | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaisan Street | lat=47.897099 | long=106.908772 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Gegeenten Entertainment Center.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Hunnu Mall | alt=Хүннү Молл | url=https://hunnumall.mn/ | email=info@hunnumall.mn | address=Naadamchid Road | lat=47.878675 | long=106.851142 | directions= | phone=+976 77112222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ===Markets=== [[File:Khar Zakh (Black Market), Ulan Bator, Mongolia.jpg|thumb|Items for sale at the Naran Tuul (Black Market)]] * {{buy | name=Narantuul Market | alt=Black Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.90814 | long=106.94645 | directions=3 km east of the children's park on Narni Zam road | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Closed on Monday | price= | wikipedia=Narantuul Market | image=Narantuul Market.jpg | wikidata=Q130051111 | content=The main market for most of the city's residents, Naran Tuul is the place to go to shop like a local. Haggle over cheap clothes, toys, fur hats, vintage Soviet propaganda pins, or anything you can imagine in a vast, partially indoor retail emporium a 10-minute bus or taxi ride from the city center. There are also several slightly more upscale shopping centers just west of the market. Only take a minimum of cash with you in a money belt or inner jacket pocket and leave all valuables at your accommodation, as pickpockets are common here. }} ===Souvenir shops=== Ulaanbaatar has a host of souvenir shops aimed at both Western and East Asian tourists, mostly along Peace Avenue west of Chinggis Square. Traditional clothes, boots and hats, cashmere garments, jewelry, leather wall hangings, miniature ''gers'', bow-and-arrow sets, and paintings are among the typical inventory. While the quality of the goods varies, prices are usually high. * {{buy | name=Flower Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91691 | long=106.91218 | directions=corner of Peace Avenue and Ikh Toiruu ring road, west of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the larger souvenir shops in the city; a broad selection, but a bit pricey. There is a money exchange center on the second floor. }} * {{buy | name=Mary & Martha | alt= | url=http://www.mmmongolia.com/ | email=info.mmmongolia@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91739 | long=106.91011 | directions=north of the State Department Store bus stop, look for the signs | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small free-trade shop full of beautiful handmade souvenirs, handbags, and wall hangings. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Librairie Papillon | url=https://www.facebook.com/librairie.papillon/ | email= | address= | lat=47.9224 | long=106.9179 | directions=on University Avenue, just past the main Mongolian National University building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers high-quality English-language books about Mongolia, resources for learning the Mongolian language, and a selection of classic literature to read on your journey. The atmosphere feels like taking a little break from Mongolia and entering [[France]]. }} * {{buy | name=Mike's Bookstore | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/Books-in-English-316361135178963/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91585 | long=106.9051 | directions=south of the Bayangol Hotel, west of the New Building | phone=+976 9903 6703 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used books are bought and sold here. There's even a buyback policy. Selection is mostly but not exclusively English-language. }} ===Miscellaneous=== * {{buy | name=Seven Summits Outdoor Shop | alt= | url=http://sevensummits-shop.com | email=maira@activemongolia.com | address= | lat=47.916263 | long=106.915070 | directions=on Peace Avenue 50 m west of Chinggis Square, in a row of shops on the south side of the street | phone=+976 11 329456 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-09 | content=If you're looking for gear you can't find elsewhere, ''e.g.'' an adaptor for a screw-on stove to use the ubiquitous clip-on cylinders, since screw-on types seem to be unavailable anywhere, Seven Summits is your place. They're a bit on the pricey side, though. }} ==Eat== Ulaanbaatar has a good range of options serving Mongolian, Asian (particularly Korean and Chinese), and Western cuisine — and at decent prices. For instance, you can get perfectly good pizza for 5000₮, and even a night out at a fancy French cafe shouldn't pass 30,000₮. Consider splurging on a couple of good meals here, especially if you're headed for a long trek into the country where fresh vegetables and the like are often hard to come by and prohibitively expensive. Best of all, UB's rapidly growing wealth has meant a steady procession of ever newer, ever higher-quality restaurants, as well as the appearance of international chains like '''KFC''', '''Round Table Pizza''', and '''Cinnabon'''. === Vegan === Mongolia's Buddhist history means that vegan and vegetarian restaurants are plentiful, and quality is high. Traditional Mongolian foods like ''buuz'' (steamed dumplings) and ''khushuur'' (fried dumplings) have vegan versions available at vegan restaurants; if you have dietary restrictions, you won't have to miss out on traditional food. '''In the city centre around the Sukhbaatar Square''' * {{eat | name=Luna Blanca | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/LunaBlancaRestaurant/ | email=luna@lunablanca.org | address= | lat=47.91981 | long=106.91393 | directions=across the street from and just west of the National Museum near Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 9907-7885 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 11:00-20:00, Sa-Su 12:00-20:00 | price=Around 4000₮ (Feb 2018) | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Good-quality vegan food. Attached to a Buddhist meditation centre, therefore short opening hours (closes around 9pm).<br />If you're looking to self-cater they also sell a modest selection of groceries including vegan sausages. }} * {{eat | name=Vegan House Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=south-east corner of the intersection of Ikh Toiruu and Seoul St | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Numerous vegan options including very good buuz. }} * {{eat | name=Loving Hut - Barilgachdyn Talbai | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=across the street and slightly west from Zanabazar Museum | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=The best of several Loving Huts scattered across UB. }} * {{eat | name=Agnista Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in a small business center in the middle of a city block just West of the Parliament Building | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Wide variety of Mongolian and Western food, as well as frozen buuz that you can bring home. }} * {{eat | name=Agnista Vegan Food | alt= | url= | email= | address=706 Seoul St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Similar to the other Agnista but with less of a crowd during lunchtime. }} * {{eat | name=Bosco Verde | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=beside ASA Arena | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Italian vegetarian restaurant }} ===Budget=== [[File:Mongolian Street Food.jpg|thumb|Mongolian street food]] Throughout Ulaanbaatar are many small canteens ''(Гуанз)'' and coffeeshops ''(Цайны Газар)''. Try one of these for cheap Mongolian food. ''Buuz'' usually costs 400-600₮. As well, most universities (particularly the '''Mongolian National University''' and the '''Mongolian University of Science and Technology''') have good cheap cafeterias with meals from 1800₮ to about 2500₮. '''[https://www.khaanbuuz.mn/ Khaan Buuz]''' (Хаан Бууз) serves up set meals of Mongolian favorites (buuz is a Mongolian meat dumpling) from 5000₮, just look for the lime green facades. '''CU''' and '''GS25''' are ubiquitous Korean-style convenience stores that offer good cheap fast food and eating space at their stores; prices range from 2000-8500₮. Be circumspect of frozen foods, check for freezer burn, and products tainted from power failures and spoilage. ====Around the State Department Store==== * {{eat | name=Joe's Corner Burgers | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91826 | long=106.90632 | directions=tucked between the apartment buildings behind the State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Stops serving around 21:00 | price=4000-5500₮ | lastedit= | content=Burgers and hot dogs, with fries: probably the best value in UB for this kind of American fare. }} ====East Ulaanbaatar near the International Intellectual Museum==== * {{eat | name=Papa Cafe | alt= | url= | email=papacafe2010@gmail.com | address=Их Монгол Улсын гудамж | lat=47.91908 | long=106.93987 | directions=second building east from the British Embassy on Peace Avenue, next to a parking lot, on the second floor | phone=+976 11 461687 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-21:00, Sa 09:00-21:00 | price=4000-7000₮ | lastedit= | content=Burgers, chicken burgers, espresso and baked goods. On Saturday they open at 09:00 and serve a breakfast special of one large waffle with fresh fruit, ice cream, bacon, Mongolian blueberry jam and syrup, plus coffee and other drinks. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{eat | name=Chinggis Club | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92653 | long=106.91445 | directions=two and a half blocks blocks north of Chinggis Square via the street passing along its west side | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-24:00 | price=US$10 | content=The '''Chinggis Brewery'''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s in-house restaurant, serving German cuisine and (of course) their own locally brewed light and dark beers on tap. }} * {{eat | name=Hishig Mongol Zoog | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91300 | long=106.86367 | directions=on Peace Avenue several kilometers west of the State Department Store, near the third hospital | phone=+976 7017 8158 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$6-10 | content=If you want to experience authentic Mongolian cuisine, this is the place. Serves roasted sheep head, roasted ribs, ''buuz'', and dried meat soup. No foreign-language menu or staff, though. }} *{{eat | name=Millie's Espresso | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Millies-Espresso-195142818141/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91433 | long=106.9179 | directions=on the west side of the Choijin Lama Monastery | phone=+976 11 33 0338 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-20:00 | price=US$10 | content=Good selection of American-style coffeeshop fare, including some vegetarian options. Free Wi-Fi. }} *{{eat | name=Nayra Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nayra-Cafe/184137758298553 | email= | address= | lat=47.91991 | long=106.90754 | directions=two blocks west of the Government House | phone= +976 11 31 7098 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=opens 08:00 | price=Most under 8000₮ | content=Good pizza, sandwiches, and coffee. Free WiFi. }} * {{eat | name=Venus Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92617 | long=106.91010 | directions=two blocks east and then three blocks north of the State Department Store, on the left a few doors past the French Bakery | phone=+976 1327496 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=lunch, dinner | price=US$10 for dinner, lunch set menu US$5 | content=Malaysian specialties including masala, roti, and spicy curries. }} * {{eat | name=Modern Nomads | alt=several restaurants in town | url=http://www.modernnomads.mn/index.php?r=1&lang=en | email= | address= | lat=47.9138 | long=106.9218 | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent variety and quality for both locals and tourists. Good, clean toilets are an added bonus. |lastedit=2018-02-28}} * {{eat | name=Hurrem Sultan Turkish Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.904976 | long=106.911325 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Hurrem Sultan Turkish Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Turkish restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Pakistani & Indian Cuisine | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Halalfoodrestaurantmn | email= | address=Baruun Selbe Street | lat=47.918296 | long=106.907029 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pakistani & Indian Cuisine.jpg | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Halal Indian Pakistani restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.904049 | long=106.911058 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Indian restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Lanzhou Beef Noodles | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.905213 | long=106.911432 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Lanzhou Beef Noodles (Khan Uul, Ulaanbaatar).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Chinese restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Lale Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mongolian National University, L. Enebish Avenue | lat=47.925556 | long=106.892034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Lale Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal restaurant, part of the Mongolian National University }} ===Splurge=== It's hard to spend outrageous sums of money eating out in Ulaanbaatar: the most expensive meals in the city will be around 60,000₮ a person. That is, unless you're drinking: whiskey or any other non-vodka liquors can be a bit pricey. * '''Caucasia:''' Just behind the circus. Serving Armenian and Georgian cuisine. Excellent quality. * '''Chojin''': In front of the Chojin Lama Museum on the ground floor of an office building. Serves a small but excellent selection of Mediterranean dishes. Very popular business dinner location for the locals. Reservation recommended. * '''Hana Japanese Restaurant'''. On Chinggis Avenue next to the National Library, on the first floor of an office building. Impossible to spot from the outside, just go in and ask at the reception. You get advised to follow a fire security stairway up. Despite the non-glamorous arrival, the Hana is a high-end Japanese restaurant. Elegant atmosphere. Excellent Japanese dishes including udon soups, sushi and barbecue. Meals up to 30.000 T. Including starters and drinks, be prepared to spend 50.000-60.000 T. * {{eat | name=California Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91296 | long=106.90093 | directions=on Seoul Street, west of the circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=10,000-30,000₮ per meal | content=Extensive menu of both foreign and Mongolian specialties. Beautifully decorated, high-quality food including vegetarian specialties (good tofu!) It's a bit small, but in the summer there is additional outside seating. Reservations are advised. }} * {{eat | name=Hazara North Indian Restaurant | alt= | url=http://hazara.mn | email=hazaraub@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91728 | long=106.93516 | directions=behind the Wrestling Palace | phone=+976 99195007, +976 11 480214 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From 10,000&nbsp;₮ | content=Serving spicy North Indian, Kashmiri, and Afghani food since 1997. Food is all halal, with vegan options available. Well-decorated restaurant and costumed waitresses can make you think you are in [[Delhi]] instead of Mongolia. }} * {{eat | name=Los Bandidos | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92601 | long=106.91809 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road, not far north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 1131 4167 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$7-10 | content=Mexican-Indian fusion: don't knock it until you taste the spicy chicken masala or crispy ''taquitos''. The prices are higher now than they used to be, but the atmosphere has improved along with it. }} * {{eat | name=Namaste Indian Restaurant | alt= | url=http://namaste.mn/ | email=namaste.ub@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.92419 | long=106.93752 | directions=at the Flower Hotel | phone=+976 99270957 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=20,000₮ | content=Mongolia's first halal-certified restaurant, serves some of the best Indian food in the city. There is another location on the Outer Ring Road in the Impex building. }} *{{eat | name=Turning Point Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91500 | long=106.90708 | directions=on Tserendorj Street, three blocks west of Chinggis Square via Peace Avenue and then half a block south | phone=+976 7011 9940 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Sandwiches for 12,000₮ | content=Jazz-themed restaurant and bar featuring modern decor, international cuisine, and a wide range of beer, wine and cocktails. Regular live entertainment. }} ===Grocery stores=== * {{eat | name=Good Price Supermarket | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91293 | long=106.90070 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-22:00 | price= | content=Catering to expats and well-heeled locals, Good Price is Mongolia's most reliable source of luxuries such as peanut butter, breakfast cereals, canned beans, and cheese. But don't be fooled by the place's astoundingly inaccurate name: these luxuries come at a much higher cost than at any other supermarket in the country. }} * {{eat | name=Mercury Food Market | alt=Chinese Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91206 | long=106.90377 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Closed on Mondays | price= | content=This small market in the city center is one of the best places to get imported fruits, vegetables, and packaged goods. }} * {{eat | name=eMart | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.923129 | long=106.934337 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The eMart store at the Chingis Khaan hotel is a subsidiary of the South Korean grocery chain that sells medium- to good-quality groceries, especially good vegetables and fruits. The second branch is at the Urgoo cinema in Bayangol district and the third branch is at Zaisan. The second floor is consumer goods and the first floor is grocery. }} * {{eat | name=eMart 2nd branch | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.922927 | long=106.867317 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The eMart store is a subsidiary of the South Korean grocery chain that sells medium- to good-quality of groceries, especially good vegetables and fruits. The second branch is at the Urgoo cinema in Bayangol district and the third branch is at Zaisan. The second floor is consumer goods and first floor is grocery. }} * {{eat | name=State Department Store | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.916721 | long=106.906278 | directions=West of Sukhbaatar Square on Peace Avenue, this 6-floor building has its English name prominently displayed. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The State Department Store is the main store of Nomin food chain stores. Groceries are on the first floor. There are a book shop and souvenir shops on the fifth floor. In the intermediate floors clothing, electronics, and house accessories are available. Food items can be returned within 24 hours and other non-food items can be returned within few weeks or months depending on the type of merchandise. The receipt must be presented. }} ==Drink== === Bars === Nightlife in Ulaanbaatar is surprisingly wild, especially on Wednesday, Saturday, and (above all) Friday nights, when finding a seat is nearly impossible. If you like raving the night away to trance, techno, electronica, and house music, this is the scene for you. Beer in clubs costs about 3500₮, while other drinks such as vodka are sold by quantity: for example a 100g vodka costs about 4500₮. According to state law, all clubs and pubs (bars) must stop serving alcohol after midnight and close at 03:00, but some clubs stay open (and continue serving!) until 04:00. On the other hand, the prohibition against serving alcohol on the 1st of each month is universally adhered to, even if it falls on a weekend. Especially after dark, and especially on the aforementioned three busiest days of the week, it's best to go out clubbing in groups rather than alone: not only will you be less likely to run afoul of shady characters, but authorities take a hard line against public intoxication, and the Mongolian drunk tank is not a pleasant place to be. As well, the clubs in the 3rd district and the Sansar microdistrict are best avoided. Be sure to apologize if you hit someone or step on their feet accidentally, because this is a rather considerable breach of local etiquette. If you step on someone's feet accidentally, offer to shake their hand. This is Mongolian custom, and will also win you praise and respect amongst locals. *{{drink | name=Ambrosia Restaurant | url=https://www.facebook.com/ambrosiaeventhall/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91343 | long=106.91548 | directions=across Chinggis Avenue from KFC, south of the Post Office | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=3000₮ for a beer | content=A nice little restaurant that turns into a club at night, with good drink specials. Popular with foreigners. }} *{{drink | name=Ikh Mongol | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91322 | long=106.90792 | directions=next to the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=3500₮ a half-liter and up | content=Patrons of this brewpub can choose between the main dining area, the fancy VIP upstairs, or secluded tables in the back. Most weekends have concerts from Mongolian bands. In addition to the house brews served on tap, the more popular Mongolian brands are served. }} *{{drink | name=Mass | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mass-Night-Club/263191093695809 | email= | address= | lat=47.91953 | long=106.87466 | directions=in the 3rd/4th microdistrict | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the aforementioned clubs that likes to stay open illicitly past 03:00. Caters to a younger clientele. }} *{{drink | name=Strings | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Strings/208178542535499 | email= | address= | lat=47.91827 | long=106.88992 | directions=in the White House Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A somewhat notorious club frequented by foreigners as well as Asian businessmen. }} If clubbing isn't your thing, UB also has its share of more sedate pubs to choose from. *{{drink | name=Le Bistrot Francais | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/bistrotfrancaisUB | email= | address= | lat=47.92385 | long=106.91794 | directions=on the west side of University Street, a block north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 32 0022 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Enjoy a ''pastis'' and have a nice dinner at the only French restaurant in Ulaanbaatar. }} *{{drink | name=Brauhaus | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91302 | long=106.90284 | directions=on Seoul Street past the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Half-liters run around 2500₮ | image=Brauhaus Exterior.jpg | content=Goes for a German brewhouse look (hence the name) and succeeds. This bar is big but usually not noisy. It serves X Beer, a quite tasty local brew. }} *{{drink | name=Dublin Irish Pub | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91377 | long=106.90632 | directions=on Seoul Street between the State Department Store and the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open until midnight | price= | content=Closer to an actual Irish bar than most. }} *{{drink | name=Grand Khaan Irish Pub | alt= | url=https://gk-irishpub.mn/?lang=en | email= | address= | lat=47.91529 | long=106.9142 | directions=next to the National Drama Theater, south of the Post Office | phone= | tollfree= | hours=12:00-22:00 | price=4000₮ for a beer, 15,000₮ for a meal | image=Grand Khaan Irish Pub.jpg | content=A comfortable sports bar and grill with English-speaking staff. }} === Cafes === Ulaanbaatar's coffee scene is exploding, with multiple Korean coffee chains as well as more boutique offerings available throughout the city. * {{drink | name=ROC Caffeine Bar | url=https://roc.mn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A local coffee franchise with its own roastery and 5 branches. Probably the best coffee to be had in the city. |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Caffe Bene | url=https://www.caffebene.mn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Korean coffee chain offering Korean-style desserts |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Tom N Toms Coffee | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100079466408969 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-25 | content=another Korean coffee chain. }} * {{drink | name=Tous Les Jours | url=https://www.facebook.com/TousLesJoursMongolia/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Korean bakery chain with a good coffee section |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Cafe de Lolita | alt=Кафе де Лолита | url=https://www.facebook.com/cafe.de.lolitaa | email= | address=Chingeltei | lat=47.91875 | long=106.905361 | directions= | phone=+976 88006757 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Cafe de Lolita.jpg | wikidata=Q121355565 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=The first and only maid and anime café in Mongolia. }} ==Sleep== During the annual [[#Festivals|Naadam festival]] in July, it's almost impossible to get any kind of accommodation in UB without prior reservations. ===Budget=== Nowadays, budget accommodation in Ulaanbaatar tends to give the best deals for a traveller. Usually a bed in a clean dormitory costs US$5-10 and a double room should be under US$30 a night. Beyond what's listed below, another option for budget travellers who want a taste of authentic Mongolian culture yet are in a hurry or don't want to do longer trekking trips is a ''ger'' homestay with a herder family living in the countryside outside UB. Usually it is possible to participate in their daily life, ''e.g.'' milking cows or chopping wood. Horseback riding might be offered as well. Some travel agencies are able to establish contact with families, including '''[http://stonehorsemongolia.com/ecotourism/ger-stay/ Stone Horse Mongolia]''' and '''[http://www.gertoger.org Ger to Ger]'''. * {{sleep | name=Bolod's Guesthouse and Tours | url=http://bolodtours.com | email=u_borchy@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.92170 | long=106.90575| directions=across the street from Chinggis Square, enter through gate across from Post Office | phone=+976 99192407 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$7/night | lastedit=2017-06-20 | content=Still UB's most centrally located guesthouse, but the place has gone downhill: where cozy, high-ceilinged, clean and bright rooms once greeted you, you now have small, windowless rooms with noisy refrigerators that wake you up several times a night. There's also no kitchen anymore. The shower, which is in the entrance, is clean, but your privacy is only protected by a translucent glass. English-, Russian-, French-, and Italian-speaking staff are on duty during the daytime only. No credit cards are accepted. Bolod also provides tours at good prices and is known to arrange unique trips involving tank-driving and AK-47 shooting. }} * {{sleep | name=Chinggis Guest House and Tours | url= | email=chingisguest@magicnet.mn | address= | lat=47.91492 | long=106.90604| directions=on Chinggis Avenue behind the National Academic Drama Theatre and Bayangol Hotel | phone=+976 99271843, +976 11-325941 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm US$8, double or twin US$10 | content=Clean and comfortable rooms with breakfast, Internet, hot shower, and use of kitchen facilities included in the price. Centrally located and quiet. }} * {{sleep | name=Gana's Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email=gharchin@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.9216 | long=106.8991 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road northwest of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 1136 7343 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$5 in a 6-bed ''ger'' to $25 for a double in the newly built wing | content=This guesthouse stands out from the rest: rather than the standard setup of spartan dorm rooms with bunk beds, guests are accommodated in roomy ''gers'' set up on an airy porch in an excellent central location overlooking downtown UB, only two minutes on foot from Gandan Monastery. Run by a friendly, helpful family, who like most guesthouse proprietors also double as tour operators. }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Gobi | alt= | url= | email=golden_gobi@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91756 | long=106.90815 | directions=off Peace Avenue close to the State Department Store | phone=+976 11-322632, +976 96654496 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-322632 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorms US$6, private rooms from $19 | content=Another cheap and friendly place with free breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Green Steppe Mongolia Guest House | alt= | url= | email=greensteppemongolia@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91735 | long=106.90871 | directions=50 m east of the State Department Store, off Peace Avenue | phone=+976 88033080, +976 88038388 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=anytime | checkout=noon | price=US$6/night | content=A small and quiet guesthouse comprising a couple of dorm rooms and two fully-furnished one-bedroom apartments, with a pleasant patio out back for picnicking. Friendly staff can organize tours to all parts of Mongolia. Complimentary amenities include breakfast in the morning and tea all day, wireless Internet as well as two wired computer terminals, lockers for guests, secure parking for motorbikes and bicycles, hot showers, and cheap laundry service. }} * {{sleep | name=Idre's Guesthouse | alt= | url=https://tours2mongolia.com/ | email=idrehouse@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91121 | long=106.89446 | directions=14253 Narnii Guur, about 2 km from Chinggis Square; take Seoul Street west then turn left | phone=+976 99112575 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Friendly family-run guesthouse with US$4 dorm beds. Rooms are clean, staff are helpful, and tickets and tours can be arranged without hassle. }} *{{sleep | name=Lotus Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://www.lotuschild.org/ | email= | address= | lat=47.92448 | long=106.91208 | directions=northwest of Chinggis Square, on Ikh Toiruu ring road across from School #5, on the second floor of Building 17 | phone=+976 11 325967 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$10-30/night | content=A nice and clean, if spartan, guesthouse run by the Lotus Foundation. Staff on duty 24 hours a day. Rooms have no high table except the very small one for the computer — and, importantly, '''no bedsheet''', and the quilt is not washed between clients! The shower room doesn't lock, and is closed by a translucent door. Free but unreliable WiFi. No credit cards accepted. }} * {{sleep | name=Oasis Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://intergam-oasis.com/ | email=info@intergam-oasis.com | address= | lat=47.91177 | long=106.98095 | directions=on the southeastern outskirts of town, about 5 km from Chinggis Square via Peace Avenue, near the Catholic church | phone=+976 11-463693 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-463693 | checkin= | checkout= | price=€10 | content=A modern-styled and lovingly furnished guesthouse run by a friendly German-Austrian couple who speak German, English, and Mongolian; lodging is in the spacious ''gers'' outside in the garden. Popular with "overlanders" travelling through Mongolia by car or motorcycle. Oasis' onsite café serves very good Western food including homemade cakes. There's a laundry room and hairdresser at the back of the building. }} * {{sleep | name=Petite Marmotte | alt= | url=http://mongolia-trip.com | email=resa@trekmongolie.com | address= | lat=47.9286 | long=106.9159 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 70 11 03 02, +976 888 243 17 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Bed dorm €5; double room €15; family room €25 (4 to 6 people) | lastedit=2024-05-21 | content=A well-located and quiet guesthouse with rooms decorated in traditional Mongolian style. The friendly staff speaks English and French, and is headed by a former chef who lives onsite and sometimes regales guests with tasty homecooked meals. They can also arrange tours. Wi-fi, washing machine, breakfast included. }} * {{sleep | name=Sunpath Hostel | alt= | url=http://sunpath-mongolia.com | email=info@sunpath-mongolia.com | address= | lat=47.92461 | long=106.91266 | directions=across the street from the Central Post Office and Chinggis Square | phone=+976 99143722 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-326323 | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$6/night | content=Sunpath is a centrally located, family-operated hostel perfect for foreign visitors offering free breakfast, free WiFi, and a publicly accessible wired computer terminal. Laundry service is available for a nominal charge. Kitchen facilities are open to guests. Sunpath's friendly staff organizes tours (having very good contacts with people living in the countryside) and are a wealth of information about Ulaanbaatar and Mongolia in general. }} * {{sleep | name=Town Yard Hostel | alt= | url= | email=oyuna_guest_house@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.919989 | long=106.893853 | directions=near Gandan Monastery | phone=+976 99889997, +976 99173469 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-08-13 | content=Hostel with fluent English-speaking owners situated just a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride to Chinggis Square. Free breakfast (with a menu that changes daily!) and free tea all day; kitchen facilities are also available for guests who'd like to self-cater other meals. They offer tours of (and can arrange accommodation at) [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]], but unlike pretty much every other hostel, they usually lay off the hard sell. Laundry service is available, though it's a bit pricey. }} * {{sleep | name=UB Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://www.ubguesthouse.com/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91936 | long=106.91095 | directions=near Zanzabar Museum; entrance is in the rear of the building facing the Mongol Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm beds US$6; single room $15; twin room $18; double room $20 | content=A clean, well-organized, and centrally located hostel that also arranges tours around the country. E-mail ahead for a free pickup from the train station. A light breakfast, tea and coffee are included. In theory you can use the phone between 10:00 to 18:00, but don't count on it. There's only a hotplate in the kitchen. Only foreigners allowed. No in-room guests. Staff is not terribly friendly. }} * {{sleep | name=Zaya Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://zayahostel.com/ | email=backpackza@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.91670 | long=106.90169 | directions=just off Peace Avenue west of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 331 575 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$20 for a single and US$27 for a double room | content=Zaya has two locations in the city center, both in newly renovated modern apartment buildings. The place is more suitable for a person looking for a clean and quiet place to sleep than a backpacker looking for a rowdy and noisy dorm. Free wireless Internet in the rooms. They also organize tours. }} ===Mid-range=== Ulaanbaatar has plenty of options for budget travellers and big spenders, but not so much for those in the middle. * {{sleep | name=Mandukhai Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91758 | long=106.90362 | directions=near State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=20,000-25,000₮/night | content=A nice inexpensive hotel in the city center. The hotel staff speaks little English, but rooms are large and include TV. Bathrooms are shared. }} * {{sleep | name=Royal House Hotel | alt=formerly Red Rose Hotel | url=http://www.royalhousehotel.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.915148 | long=106.944512 | directions=on the ring road east of the city center; take Peace Avenue east from Chinggis Square for about 2 km and then turn right | phone=+976 11 46 4088 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=One of UB's leading hotels, with a location among a cluster of major shopping centers and office buildings. 34 rooms of various levels of luxury: deluxe, semi-lux and standard. }} * {{sleep | name=ibis Styles Ulaanbaatar Polaris | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/9808/index.ru.shtml | email=H9808@accor.com | address=81 Chinggis Avenue, Khan-Uul | lat=47.895156 | long=106.883866 | directions= | phone=+976 70100707 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double US$120 | image=Ibis Styles Ulaanbaatar Polaris.jpg | lastedit=2025-01-09 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Bayangol Hotel | alt= | url=http://bayangolhotel.mn | email= | address= | lat=47.91203 | long=106.91365 | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=Bayangol Hotel.jpg | content=Close to the bars and Chinggis Square, but rooms are small and the Internet cuts in and out. }} * {{sleep | name=Blue Sky Hotel and Tower | alt= | url=http://hotelbluesky.mn | email= | address= | lat=47.91674 | long=106.91851 | directions=south side of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 7010 0505 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$200 | wikipedia=Blue Sky Tower | image=Felhőkarcoló a főtéren (Skyscraper on the central square) - panoramio.jpg | wikidata=Q15107804 | content=The tallest building in Mongolia. 200 rooms, plus several nice restaurants and bars including a lounge on the 23rd floor with views of the whole city.. }} * {{sleep | name=Chinggis Khaan Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.chinggis-hotel.com | email=reservation@chinggis-hotel.com | address= | lat=47.922101 | long=106.934609 | directions=four blocks east of Chinggis Square; take Beijing Street east for about 1200 m, then turn right on Tokyo Street | phone=+976 700 000 99 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q11074511 | content=Spacious rooms that can be described as "wannabe luxurious". }} * {{sleep | name=Corporate Hotel | alt=Корпорэйт зочид буудал | url=http://www.corporatehotel.mn/sector/sector-1 | email= | address= | lat=47.91299 | long=106.91355 | directions=on Chinggis Avenue, seven minutes on foot south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Corporate Hotel.jpg | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=Nice luxurious rooms as well as sauna, jacuzzi and free WiFi. }} * {{sleep | name=HS Khaan Resort Hotel | alt= | url=http://hs-khaan-resort.com/ | email= | address=Khui doloon hudag, Argalant soum | lat=47.971077 | long=106.480045 | directions=about 12 km west of central UB via Highway 3 | phone=+976-9908-8102 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A ''ger''-style resort in the countryside outside of town. All rooms have sweeping views over the steppes. }} * {{sleep | name=Kempinski Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.kempinski.com/en/ulaanbaatar/hotel-khan-palace/welcome/ | email=reservations.ulaanbaatar@kempinski.com | address= | lat=47.91982 | long=106.94365 | directions=about 2 km east of Chinggis Square, at northeast corner of Peace Avenue and Ikh Toiruu ring road | phone=+976 11 463 463 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A nice hotel on the east side of the city with several good restaurants, including '''Kara-Khorum''' with an excellent brunch on the weekends: various meats, fruit, omelet and juice bar, plus caviar and champagne. }} * {{sleep | name=Ramada Citycenter | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/ulaanbaatar-mongolia/ramada-ulaanbaatar-citycenter/overview | email= | address= | lat=47.91519 | long=106.89188 | directions=on Peace Avenue about 2 km west of Chinggis Square, a block past Ikh Toiruu ring road | phone=+976 7014 1111 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$200/night | content=One of the only international hotel chains in the city. On the top floor of the '''MaxMall''', near Gandan Monastery. Has all the standard features of a full-service Western hotel, including fitness center, sauna, and office space. }} * {{sleep | name=Shangri-La Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.shangri-la.com/ulaanbaatar/shangrila/ | email= | address= | lat=47.912953 | long=106.920231 | directions=on Olympic Street three blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 7702 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=From US$440/night | image=Shangri-La Ulaanbaatar.jpg | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=Centrally located high-rise property catering to a mix of business travellers and well-heeled tourists, with free WiFi, a fitness club, laundry and shoeshine service, and several onsite restaurants. Rooms are spacious, overlook either Chinggis Square or Nayramdal Park, and their design can be described as a modernized take on traditional Mongolian aesthetic elements. They'll pick you up from the airport upon prior arrangement. }} * {{sleep | name=Ulaanbaatar Hotel | alt= | url=http://ubhotel.mn/ | email=reservations@ubhotel.mn | address= | lat=47.91862 | long=106.92266 | directions=just off the east side of Sukhbaatar Square | phone=+976 11 320 620 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia=Ulaanbaatar Hotel | image=Ulaanbaatar Hotel.jpg | wikidata=Q10877907 | content=The first modern hotel ever built in Mongolia (in 1961) is showing its age. Nice central location, though. }} * {{sleep | name=Mongolica Hotel and Resort | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/mongolica.resort/ | email= | address= | lat=47.860788 | long=106.678861 | directions= | phone=+976 99199152 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ==Connect== On Peace Avenue at the southwest corner of Chinggis Square, Ulaanbaatar's {{marker|type=listing|name=Central Post Office|lat=47.91706|long=106.91578}} not only sells stamps but also a wide variety of reasonably priced postcards (though they may take up to two months to reach their destination!) Also check out their large collections of decorative stamps. '''Mobile phone''' operators around town offer prepaid GSM SIM cards, handset rentals (Mobicom), and extensive roaming options. As well, prepaid cards such as BodiCom are another convenient and relatively inexpensive way to make an international call. '''Internet''' Many restaurants and coffeehouses offer free WiFi. ==Stay safe== ===Crime=== While crime rates in Ulaanbaatar are said to be among the highest of any Asian city, this generally applies less to the city center than the underdeveloped ''ger'' districts on the outskirts of town: poorly lit shantytowns crisscrossed by maze-like dirt alleys and row upon row of fences; not the kind of place most tourists would be interested in to begin with. Nonetheless, it might be a good idea to avoid going out at night alone (though it's usually perfectly fine to do so in groups). This goes double for relatively deserted areas away from major routes, and for rowdy nightlife districts. Although most large buildings have security guards, they're only there to keep drunks and homeless people out, so don't expect much help from them if a crime is committed against you. Unfortunately, xenophobia and violence towards foreigners is common. Alcoholism is a huge social problem and Mongolia has some of the highest rates of liver cancer in the world. Do not acknowledge or approach any Mongolian man under the influence of alcohol. Many foreigners who go to bars and clubs at night report assault and general aggression. While muggings, assaults, and taxi scams all occasionally occur, the main crime for foreigners to be concerned about is '''pickpocketing'''. This is especially a problem at the '''Naran Tuul''' market, at the bus stops close to the '''State Department Store''', and on crowded buses in general. If you've been attacked or pickpocketed, take time to make a deposition at the district police station, and let your country's embassy know. Though unmarked taxis are common and generally nothing to fear, it's probably a good idea to get a local to serve as an interpreter and explain the fare system, and to keep an eye on where the taxi is taking you. Sometimes unmarked taxi drivers will try to take people, especially drunk tourists, down a dark alley and demand their cell phone or cash. ===Hotel scams=== Vacation home hosting is common in UB, foreign investors, locals, and real estate developers list available apartments on the usual booking sites. The frequency of fraud or crime with these listings is probably just as common as in established hotels elsewhere in the world, but there are some additional things to look out for, when an established hotel might seem to otherwise provide safety in numbers. Vacation rentals might be apartments in locations that have been caused to be otherwise unliveable due to nuisance conditions created with the intention of driving tenants or owners out. New construction in some areas is shoddy with thin walls and no privacy, projects are colonized by organized criminals gangs, retail spaces nearby might be venues for organized trafficking in persons. New buildings as elsewhere in Asia, are liable to be financed by organized crime groups from the usual places, largely unoccupied, unsecured and wholly thrown open for arbitrary use within international trafficking rings. Irregular hotels operated by noncitizens may be located in mixed use buildings or apartment complexes with persistent crime presence. In areas with high methamphetamine drug use, it might be difficult even to determine the nature or intent of the criminal actors. ===Road and traffic hazards=== Walking on the streets at any time is a hazardous affair, as there are open manholes, reckless drivers, and (from October to March) ice on the roads to contend with. The automobile culture in UB is too new for safe driving systems and habits to have taken root among the public: if you're crossing the street, even at a designated crosswalk and even if in theory you have the right of way, don't expect anyone (even buses and police) to stop or even slow down for you. You ''will'' get honked and shouted at, however. ===Child beggars=== This is a common sight on the streets of UB that may tug at the heartstrings of well-off Western tourists, but the reality is a bit more complicated than it may appear. Any money you give will often go straight into the pockets of their teenage "pimps", so your donation may not help the kids. It also pays to be on your guard when they operate in groups, as this is often a setup for a pickpocketing operation. Children and the elderly are frequently present in the areas where organized prostitution is taking place. Sex trafficking in Asia invariably involves call centers, and often family members or fellow travelers, taking direction from a handler in related crime activities. The objective is to obtain money, it is not to sell sex. ===General=== In winter, be mindful of the cold at all times. Even being outside for a couple of minutes in -35 can cause problems very, very quickly. In bars, many people may want to approach you and talk to you out of interest. This is usually well-meaning, though it can be annoying. As a general rule, the more drunk a person will be, the more annoying they will be too. If you are open to conversation, then go ahead. Mongolians are interesting and interested, and it can lead to great connections, memories and stories. However, remember to be wary. Some Mongolian men do not take too kindly to foreign men speaking to Mongolian women (especially young women). Be wary of this, especially in busy bars, and where copious amounts of alcohol is involved. ==Cope== ===Newspapers=== The weekly '''''[https://www.ubpost.mn/ UB Post]''''' is the principal English-language source for cultural, economic, and political goings-on in Mongolia. ===Embassies=== * {{flag|Australia}}{{listing | name=Australia | alt= | url=https://mongolia.embassy.gov.au/ | email= | address=Level 20, Shangri-La Centre, 19A Olympic Street, Sukhbaatar District-1 | lat= | long= | directions=Shangri-La Centre | phone=+976 7013 3001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata= |lastedit=2023-03-25| content= }} * {{flag|Canada}} {{listing | name=Canada | alt= | url= | email= | address=Central Tower, 6th floor | lat= | long= | directions=southeast corner of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 332500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33245649 | content= }} * {{flag|China}} {{listing | type=listing | name=China | alt= | url=http://mn.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/ | email=chinaemb_mn@mfa.gov.cn | address=Zaluuchuudyn Urgun Chuluu 5 | post = C.P.O.BOX672 | lat= | long= | directions=just northeast of the Government House | phone=+976 11 320955, +976 11 323940, +976 11 311903 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11 311943 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309063 | content=It is possible for most foreigners to get a Chinese visa here. During busy periods, the office may refuse entry after 11:00. Also, on major Chinese holidays, the Consular Section may be closed for several days. }} * {{flag|Cuba}} {{listing | name=Cuba | alt= | url= | email= | address=United Nations Street 18, Sükhbaatar district | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 323778 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309069 | content= }} * {{flag|Czech Republic}} {{listing | name=Czech Republic | alt= | url=http://www.mzv.cz/ulaanbaatar | email=ulaanbaatar@embassy.mzv.cz | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11321886, +976 99111880 (emergencies), +976 9909 8708 (emergencies) | tollfree= | fax=+976 11323791 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309276 | content= }} * {{flag|France}} {{listing | name=France | alt= | url=http://www.ambafrance-mn.org/ | email= | address=Peace Avenue 12, Sükhbaatar district | lat=47.917176 | long=106.913517 | directions=west of Chinggis Square, past the Central Post Office | phone=+976 11 324519 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2841766 | content= }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany | alt= | url= | email= | address=United Nations Street 18, Baga Toiruu 2, Sükhbaatar district | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 329522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309283 | content= }} * {{flag|India}} {{listing | name=India | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaluuchuud Avenue 10, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=just east of the Chinese embassy | phone=+976 11 329522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309392 | content= }} * {{flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Olympic Street 8, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 320777, +976 11 313332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309400 | content= }} * {{flag|Kazakhstan}} {{listing | name=Kazakhstan | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th khoroo, Zaisan Street 78, Khan-Uul District | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 345408 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309414 | content= }} * {{flag|Kuwait}} {{listing | name=Kuwait | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bella Vista Town, Zaisan Bella, 11th khoroo, Khan-Uul District | lat= | long= | directions=south of the city center, near the bridge to Zaisan Memorial | phone=+976 7744444 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309421 | content= }} * {{flag|Laos}} {{listing | name=Laos | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th khoroo, Ikh Toiruu Road 59, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=massive complex on the south side of Peace Avenue, East of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 326440 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309436 | content= }} * {{flag|North Korea}} {{listing | name=North Korea | alt= | url= | email= | address=Diplomatic Complex 95, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=behind the Embassy Restaurant near the Tengis Theater | phone=+976 11 310432 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309445 | content= }} * {{flag|Russia}} {{listing | name=Russia | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th Khoroo, Ikh Toiruu Road 59, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=massive complex on the south side of Peace Avenue, east of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 326440, +976 11 322834 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Russian embassy in Ulan Bator 2.JPG | wikidata=Q16687397 | content= }} * {{flag|South Korea}} {{listing | name=South Korea | alt= | url=http://overseas.mofa.go.kr/mn-ko/index.do | email= | address=Olympic Street 10, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=two blocks South of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 70071030, +976 11 70071020 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-18:00 | price= | wikidata=Q33309454 | lastedit=2017-07-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Turkey}} {{listing | name=Turkey | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue 5, Chingeltei District | lat= | long= | directions=west of the post office, next to the French Embassy | phone=+976 11 311200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309468 | content= }} * {{flag|United Kingdom}} {{listing | name=United Kingdom | alt= | url=https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-ulaanbaatar | email=Consular.Mongolia@fco.gov.uk | address=Unit 1-3A, Level 19 Shangri-La Offices, Olympic Street 19A, Sukhbaatar District-1 | lat=47.9128275 | long=106.9215149 | directions=north-east corner of the National Amusement Park | phone=+976 11 458133 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu Th 14:00-16:00 | price= | wikidata=Q33309476 | content= }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | alt= | url=https://mn.usembassy.gov/ | email=cons@usembassy.mn | address= | lat= | long= | directions=north of Chinggis Khaan Hotel | phone=+976 7007-6001 | tollfree= | fax=+976 7007-6174 | hours=M-F 08:30-12:30 and 13:00-17:00 | price= | wikipedia=Embassy of the United States, Ulaanbaatar | image=US Embassy in Mongolia.jpg | wikidata=Q25044768 | content= }} * {{flag|Vietnam}} {{listing | name=Vietnam | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue 47, Bayanzurkh District | lat=47.9185 | long=106.9343 | directions=just West of the Wrestling Palace | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Vietnamese embassy in Ulaanbaatar.JPG | wikidata=Q33309489 | content= }} ==Go next== Except for those just passing through on the [[Trans-Siberian Railway|Trans-Mongolian Railroad]] or transiting through Ulaanbaatar Airport, most people come to Mongolia to witness the beauty of the endless steppes and deserts of Central Asia, populated by the nomadic descendants of Genghis Khan. Ulaanbaatar is an excellent homebase to explore Mongolia with its many museums, monasteries, and cultural experiences, but don't confine yourself to UB: you can't really get to know this place without going to the countryside for at least a few days. *[[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]] — scenic, forested mountain valleys a mere three-hour bus ride from UB *[[Bogd Khan National Park]] — the world's largest equestrian statue of Genghis Khan and the ruins of a large Buddhist monastery destroyed by the communists in 1937 are the showpieces of this massive mountain park South of town *[[Karakorum]] — the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in the beautiful Orkhon River valley, a day's bus ride to the west *The [[Gobi|Gobi Desert]] — nomadic camel herders and dinosaur fossils *[[Western Mongolia]] — where the old Kazakh tradition of eagle-hunting lives on in the snow-capped Altai Mountains {{routebox| | image1=Trans-Siberian Railway icon.png | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Irkutsk]] | minorl1=[[Darkhan]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Beijing]] | minorr1=[[Sainshand]] | link1=Trans-Siberian Railway }} {{IsPartOf|Central Mongolia}} {{guidecity}} {{geo|47.92|106.92}} g5yxety0d4pa0aulqoha4auw4zjd47b 5090948 5090947 2025-07-10T16:29:16Z Chongkian 70395 /* Museums */ Updated listing for Natural History Museum - update hours 5090948 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Ulanbataar panorama banner.jpg|dotm=yes}} '''Ulaanbaatar''' ''(Улаанбаатар)'' — also '''Ulan Bator''', '''UB''', or in the local language, '''Khot''' ("the city") — is the capital and the largest city of [[Mongolia]]. With more than 1.6 million residents as of 2023, Ulaanbaatar is home to roughly half of Mongolia's population and serves as the starting point for pretty much all travel around Mongolia. Founded and established by warlords of the Mongol Empire in the 16th century, Ulaanbaatar is roughly 1,300-1,400 meters above sea level and is situated on a valley in the Tuul River. Ulaanbaatar is a modern and clean city populated with beautiful landmarks such as the Green Palace, universities such as the National University of Mongolia, fancy skyscrapers, hotels, monasteries, museums, and malls showcasing local and international brands. A number of national parks and protected areas (the [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]] being the most popular one) belong to the city. Due to its high elevation and distance from any major body of water, Ulaanbaatar has the onerous distinction of being the world's coldest capital city. Ulaanbaatar winters are notorious for being harsh, dry, and bitterly cold; winter temperatures range from -20° to -50° Celsius. ==Understand== [[image:UB downtown.jpg|thumb|400px|Downtown Ulaanbaatar in 2015]] Ulaanbaatar has many different and distinct layers. Long gone are the days when this city was just a typical, drab Soviet-bloc town in the middle of nowhere. One can witness the traditional, the Soviet, and the super-modern, all within a 5 minute walk through the city. Ulaanbaatar lies in the ''Altan Tevshiin Kundii'' (Valley of the Golden Cradle). Here the rivers Selbe and Tuul meet at the foot of the imposing Bogd Uul Mountain. In the forested and watered zone of northern Mongolia, it resides near the 2,000-year-old royal tombs of the Xiongnu, the 8th-century Turkic inscription of General Tonyukuk, and the birthplace of Genghis Khan. From the 20,000-year-old Paleolithic settlement on the Zaisan monument to the 12th century palace of the Nestorian Christian monarch Toghrul, there is a lot to learn and discover about this deep first layer of Ulaanbaatar. The second layer is the ''Urga'' or ''Örgöö'' of 1639-1778 — what would become Ulaanbaatar was established as a nomadic monastic center for the spiritual leader Zanabazar in 1639 — 230 kilometres (143 miles) southwest of today's Ulaanbaatar. The monastic center moved repeatedly and eventually settled at its present location in 1778, along a trading route between Russia and China. This mobile monastery era survives today as cultural forms (Genghisid memory, Mongolian temple architecture, wooden-fenced ger districts, Mongolian script, and Buddhism, traditional clothing, festivals, wrestling, music), and as physical artifacts kept in museums (Zanabazar masterpieces). The third layer is the late Qing dynasty Urga of 1778-1924 which can be found in surviving buildings such as the Gandan monastery. The fourth layer is the socialist period of 1924-1990 which saw the destruction of temples, the confiscation of private property, and Stalinist purges, but also the emergence of Mongolia as a modern, independent nation with Ulaanbaatar as its showcase. It was in this period that the city was named ''Ulaanbaatar khot'', literally "''Red Hero City''". The fifth layer, corresponding to the decade of the 1990s, was a stagnant period marked by poverty and bread lines which left a poor impression on the few visitors who passed through the city after its opening from communism. The newest sixth layer is the Ulaanbaatar of 2000 to the present, which saw the city over double in size to its current 1.6 million. However, while the center now has glittery skyscrapers, fashion boutiques and epic traffic jams, many poor migrants huddle in ''ger'' (yurt) districts on the outskirts of the city without basic amenities like running water and sewage. The residents of the ''ger'' districts have effectively become refugees in their own country, as the government has attempted to clamp down on rural-to-urban migration by not allowing new arrivals to register in the city, thus depriving them of the ability to access healthcare, employment and education in some instances. [[File:The private sector with yurts against the backdrop of high-rise new buildings in Ulaanbaatar.jpg|thumb|300x300px|A ''ger'' neighborhood next to a high-rise neighborhood, on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar.]] ===Orientation=== Peace Avenue (''Enkh Taivny Örgön Chölöö'') is the main street, stretching from east to west through the center with shopping and restaurants all along it. This street dates back to old Urga when it was called the ''Chölöö'' (Broad Avenue). The Chinese financed its paving in the 1950s. The street passes by the southern edge of the central square, '''Sükhbaatar Square''', which has roots in the central square of old Urga. The tourist information office is in the south flank of the town hall in the western corner of Chinggis Square. The city center is defined by the ''Ikh Toiruu'' (Great Ring Road) which has its origin in the prayer route of pilgrims circling the central temple-palace complex of Urga. Peace Avenue crosses the middle of the ring road horizontally while the southern part of the ring road is the Narnii Zam road ("Road of the Sun" built with Japanese support). South of the Narni Zam road is the affluent southern part of Ulaanbaatar with luxury apartments lining the Tuul River. Ger districts line the northern part of the city center and stretch 7 km north to the '''Dambadarjaalin Monastery''' built in 1765. North of Dambadarjaalin Monastery starts the ''Zuslan'' or summer vacation area, where charming summer houses stretch 14 km to Khandgait. Many families in Ulaanbaatar have a ''zuslan'' building (similar to Russian ''dachas'') where they spend the summer among the forests and natural scenery of the Selbe river valley. Some herding families graze their horses and cows freely in this area. The scenery gets more dramatic going east towards the Terelj area with big rock formations and wildflower valleys. Tours go past Terelj to the 1740 '''Gunjiin Sum Princess Temple''' and the '''Khagiin Khar''' lake. The southern edge of Ulaanbaatar is marked by its boundary with the town of Zuunmod on the south side of the Bogd Uul mountain. The 1778 shrine of '''Tsetsee Gun''' on the peak and the 1747 ruins of the '''Manjusri Monastery''' are on top of the mountain. South of the mountain starts an endless sea of grassland steppe gradually merging into the [[Gobi]] Desert 300 km south of UB. Day trips to the east include the '''Tsonjin Boldog Genghis Khan Statue'''. Day trips to the west include the '''Hustai Nuruu National Park''', '''Aglag Meditation Center''' and '''Ögii Lake'''. ===History=== At the time when Ulaanbaatar was founded as Urga in 1639 by Genghisid nobles, Mongolia was actually a serious contender for power in East Asia. The last Great Khan, Ligdan, had died in 1634, and the Manchu were rising in the east — but the independent Mongols had been revitalized by a Buddhist renaissance in the 1570s, and raids under Altan Khan were carried out as far afield as [[Beijing]]. A firmer union of the Western Oirats and Eastern Genghisids would have sufficed to fend off the Manchus. The 1640 Mongol-Oirat Code of Law united the East and West, but this union failed to last long. What did survive from this period was the union of the Eastern Mongols cemented in 1639 with the founding of Urga. The Mongol nobles installed one of their own, Zanabazar, the son of Tüsheet Khan Gombodorj (1594-1655) and a direct descendant of Genghis Khan, as the supreme lama of the Mongols. His residence, called '''Örgöö''' or Urga, meaning "palace-yurt", was some 250 km west of the current site of the city, near the ancient Mongol capital of [[Karakorum]]. In 1651, the first Jebtsundamba Khutughtu, Zanabazar, returned from studies in [[Tibet]] and established seven monastic departments in Urga. The mobile monastery gradually became a mobile city, moving every few years as needed. Urga was moved 25 times between its founding in 1639 and settling in its current location in 1778, by which time it had several thousand tents and temples and was served by trade routes from [[China]] and [[Russia]]. It was also estimated to have about 10,000 monks. The Gandan Monastery was established in 1809 and became the center of learning for all of Mongolia, and one of the most important monasteries in Tibetan Buddhism.[[image:Jugder 001.jpg|thumb|400px|Ulaanbaatar (Urga) in 1913]]The city continued to grow through the 19th century as a provincial capital of the Qing Empire and a center of religion and trade. Russian influence in Mongolia became significant in the late 18th century, and a two-story Russian consulate was opened in 1865 as an upgrade from the 18th century wooden quarters of the Russian representative. Mongolia was, in practice, a buffer between Russia and China, with plenty of local autonomy through the Bogd Jebtsundamba and Mongolian nobles. In 1911, the 8th Bogd Khan declared independence from China, leading to a long unstable period in the city's history including an occupation by a Chinese warlord in 1919. However, the Chinese were expelled by the [[Belarus|White Russian]] Roman von Ungern-Sternberg, aka the "Mad Baron", in 1921. This forced the Soviet Union to intervene and set up a puppet state in what was then known as Outer Mongolia. The country was nominally independent but essentially a satellite state of the USSR. In 1924, the city's name changed from Urga to Ulaanbaatar ("Red Hero"). Many of the monasteries and temples were destroyed in the religious purges of the 1930s. Following the end of the Second World War, the old ''ger'' districts were largely cleared for Soviet-style city apartments, offices, and factories. The [[Trans-Siberian Railway|Trans-Mongolian Railway]] was completed in 1956, connecting Ulaanbaatar to Beijing and [[Moscow]]. Gandan Monastery was reopened during a visit by US Vice President Henry Wallace in 1944, when he asked to see a monastery. Since the democratic revolution in 1990, the population of the city has almost tripled from 540,600 (1989) to 1.6 million (2020) - with thousands moving in from the countryside. The commercial and residential real estate sectors have boomed since 2000, though large factories have closed and much of the city still lives in the slum-like ''ger'' districts. ===Climate=== {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = -15.5 | febhigh = -9.4 | marhigh = -.2 | aprhigh = 10.4 | mayhigh = 17.8 | junhigh = 23.1 | julhigh = 25.2 | aughigh = 23.0 | sephigh = 17.2 | octhigh = 7.7 | novhigh = -4.8 | dechigh = -13.7 | janlow = -25.6 | feblow = -21.7 | marlow = -12.6 | aprlow = -3.3 | maylow = 3.5 | junlow = 10.3 | jullow = 13.5 | auglow = 11.1 | seplow = 4.1 | octlow = -4.5 | novlow = -15.1 | declow = -22.9 | janprecip = 2.1 | febprecip = 2.8 | marprecip = 4.6 | aprprecip = 8.4 | mayprecip = 21.7 | junprecip = 47.2 | julprecip = 74.5 | augprecip = 65.4 | sepprecip = 27.9 | octprecip = 8.6 | novprecip = 6.3 | decprecip = 3.5 | description = NOAA (1991-2020) }} Although summer daytime temperatures are mild and average around {{c|24}} and nights around {{C|13}}, the city shivers in sub-zero temperatures for five months of the year. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures hovering between {{c|-15}} to {{c|-30}} at night. As a result of these prolonged periods of intense cold, the city has an average annual temperature of {{c|.2}}, giving it the dubious distinction of being the world's coldest capital. The cold is dry, however, and there is not much wind chill due to temperature inversion. Heat island effect also means the city center is warmer than the outskirts. Summer can be very hot at times, with several days above {{c|31}} and warmer nights above {{c|17}}, so one should avoid heat stress and use sunscreen when necessary. The sun is up from 05:00 to 20:45 in June, and from 08:30 to 17:00 in the winter. If you have breathing problems, be aware that Ulaanbaatar has high levels of air pollution during the winter. However, away from the city, the countryside air is gorgeous. In winter, air pollution starts at 19:00, when ''ger'' district residents start burning coal for heat, and lasts till about 10:00 the next morning. It is severe in northern parts of the city close to the ''ger'' districts, but gets sparse going south from Chinggis Square and is almost absent near Zaisan, at the southern edge of the city where there are no ''ger'' districts. The air pollution lifts in early March and the city remains pollution-free (excluding car exhaust) until November. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Chinggis Khaan International Airport | alt={{IATA|UBN}}, Чингис хаан олон улсын нисэх буудал, New Ulaanbaatar International Airport | url=https://en.ulaanbaatar-airport.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.651581 | long=106.821772 | directions=52 km south of Ulaanbaatar | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chinggis Khaan International Airport | image=Chinggis Khan International Airport.jpg | wikidata=Q837745 | content=Opened in 2021, this Japanese-built airport has now taken over all domestic and international flights, replacing the old Buyant-Ukhaa Airport which also formerly known as Chinggis Khaan International Airport. }} '''[https://en.ulaanbaatar-airport.mn/bus-route Getting to the airport]''' takes about 50-100 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport buses run from 6:20 AM to midnight, but taxis and the new Ulaanbaatar Airport shuttle are more reliable. Taxis cost a steep 85,000-120,000 ₮ depending on your destination, be sure to agree on the price in advance. There are also shared taxis for 30,000MNT. The Ulaanbaatar Airport Shuttle costs 20,000 MNT - 30,000 MNT depending on the size of the shuttle. Many of the higher-end hotels will offer a shuttle service to/from the airport for a nominal fee. ===By train=== [[File:Ulaanbaatar Railway Station.jpg|thumb|Ulaanbaatar Train Station]] Direct (if long) journeys are possible from destinations between Moscow and Beijing on the Trans-Mongolian line of the [[Trans-Siberian Railway]]. Ulaanbaatar-bound trains leave Beijing once a week, on Wednesday, and seats can only be reserved at the International Hotel in Beijing, a ten-minute walk north of the main rail station. The journey takes about 30 hours. Packing a face mask is a good idea as sandstorms in the Gobi desert may cause difficulty in breathing. Shorter-haul trains also run to the Chinese border towns of [[Erlian]] and [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)|Jining]] 3-4 times a week. Ulaanbaatar's {{marker|type=go|name=train station|lat=47.90865|long=106.88395}} is on Narni Zam road, about 3 km west of the city centre. The cheapest option is the daily 18:05 departure to Zamyn Uud on the Mongolian side of the Chinese border. You can buy a connecting bus ticket from Zamyn Uud to Erlian on the Chinese side for 10000₮ in the railway office in Ulaanbaatar. After COVID-19 related suspending for 3 years, train service between China and Mongolia was restored, but only between Ulaanbaatar and [[Erenhot]]. In Moscow, trains to Ulaanbaatar depart Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays (the latter two are express runs), for a journey that lasts 100 hours or a little over 4 days. There's also a daily train to/from [[Irkutsk]], which can also be reached from [[Vladivostok]] at the eastern end of the Trans-Siberian. ===By car=== What few paved roads exist in Mongolia generally go to and from Ulaanbaatar. Thus, getting to UB from elsewhere in Mongolia on a ''paved'' road is very easy, because all you have to do is just follow the pavement. However, if you're driving one of the dirt tracks that characterize the majority of the country's road network, it pays to have a map, and if [[Offroad driving|off-roading]] is part of your itinerary, it pays to have a local guide/driver. Coming from the '''north''', the paved road starts at the Russian border at [[Sühbaatar]]. Coming from the '''south''', the paved road starts at the Chinese border at [[Zamyn-Üüd]], passing through the vast Gobi Desert along the way. Coming from the '''northeast''', the paved road starts at [[Bulgan]]. Finally, from the '''west''', the road starts in either [[Bayanhongor]] in the southwest or [[Tsetserleg]] further north. ===By bus=== [[File:New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal.jpg|thumb|New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Bus Terminal]] Once in the country, it should not be difficult to find a bus going to UB, at least from larger towns. However, bus stops are difficult to locate, with buses usually just stopping in populated areas. Furthermore, Mongolian buses are notorious for being late — in some cases by a day or more. Buses from Russia, the west, north and south usually go to Dragon Center, while those from China and the east go to Bayanzurkh bus station, just east of the Officer Monument at the east end of Peace Avenue. * {{go | name=New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal | alt=драгон | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91053 | long=106.8205 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal.jpg | content=The primary bus station for all buses going to the [[Western Mongolia|west]], [[Northern Mongolia|north]], and the Gobi. }} * {{listing | name=Botanical Gardens | alt=ботаник | type=go | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91272 | long=106.99319 | directions=1 km east of the eastern traffic circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The gardens have been completely destroyed, but the location is well known to the locals. Serves inter-city buses to [[Eastern Mongolia]]. }} * {{listing | name=Tenger Plaza | alt= | type=go | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=east of the city center, southeast of Mongolia International University and MIU bus stop | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Buses depart to various national destinations. Buses to [[Zamyn-Üüd]], the main border crossing to China, depart at 07:00 and 21:00, arriving there about 10 hours later, with some buses continuing across the border to Erlian. }} From Russia, there are also UB-bound buses from [[Ulan Ude]], leaving at 07:30 from the '''old bus station''' ''(Старый Автовокзал)'' via the Altanbulag border crossing. The trip usually takes about 12 hours, including customs processing — much faster than the train — and tickets cost {{RUB|1800}} one-way. Night buses leave on Fridays and Sundays at 19:00. Buses arrive and depart from the Dragon Bus station. Any travel agency should be able to book tickets or you can buy them at either bus station. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|47.91729|106.90815|zoom=11|width=700|height=430|layer=MP}} Street names are rarely known by Mongolians, and they usually only appear on maps and official addresses. Official addresses list the district, microdistrict (usually a large block bounded by major streets), and the building number. However, since blocks can have dozens of buildings, with more continuously being squeezed in between existing ones, addresses are not very helpful for navigation. Instead, it's best to have directions for major landmarks using lots of descriptions (i.e. "turn right at the first traffic signal west of the State Department Store"). Some major streets to know are '''Peace Avenue''', UB's main road which runs west-to-east in front of Chinggis Square; '''Chinggis Avenue''', running north-to-south on the east side of the square, then veering west toward the airport in front of Bogd Khan Winter Palace; and '''Seoul Street''', which runs west from Chinggis Avenue just south of Chinggis Square. ===By taxi=== If you stand in the street and hold out your arm, usually within seconds somebody will have stopped to pick you up. This system can be quick and reliable, especially during the cold winter, but it can cause problems as many drivers will only speak Mongolian. Taxis are cheap: the going rate is around 1000₮ per kilometer, but if you're a foreigner, they'll overcharge you and there's really no way to get around it completely. (In extreme circumstances, opportunistic younger drivers have been known to try to hold passengers or their luggage at ransom until they pay extraordinary amounts of money!) A good tip is to carry a small written note with an amount in ''tögrög'' (500₮, 1000₮, 1500₮, etc.) and show them exactly what you are willing to pay before you get on. If the driver does not seem aggressive, you can get yourself out of this situation by knowing a few local words - particularly yes, no, and any numbers. Remember, even if you pay 4000 ''tögrög'' for a journey, though this is a higher fare than a local would pay, it is still only just over $1. So use your judgement. The current price of gasoline is $5/gallon, 3710₮/litre, so you can judge whether some of these prices are realistic given market conditions. UB also now has a fleet of new white cabs with large LCD-screen fare meters on the dash. Always negotiate the fare in advance, don't be fooled by tricks like "I meant 3000₮ for each of you", and avoid random cars that offer taxi service. * {{listing | name=Help Taxi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 99652371 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=1000₮/km, minimum 4000₮, airport to city center 30,000₮ | content=Fluent English-speaking dispatch, all drivers have at least limited proficiency in English. Main taxi service for all the embassies. }} * {{listing | name=iTaxi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 77171717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=1000₮/km, airport to city center 20,000₮ | content=English-speaking dispatch, metered taxi rides, texts you when the taxi arrives to pick you up. }} * Download '''UBCab''' to order taxis quickly to your location. You do not enter the destination into the app, but simply order the cab and then instruct the driver where to go once you get in. ===By bus=== [[File:Sükhbaatar Square Parking Lot.jpg|thumb|Public bus in Ulaanbaatar]] Buses in UB come in several different varieties. At the top of the scale, regularly scheduled municipal buses operate on a widespread network that extends right to the outskirts of town, for a flat rate of 500₮. As well, there's an almost equally extensive network of '''microbuses''' charging from 300-500₮, distinguished by a person hanging out the window at each stop and shouting the name of the destination in rapid-fire Mongolian. Finally, there is also a cheaper (300₮) but slower and less extensive network of electric trolleybuses. To use the municipal and trolleybuses you need a U card, which can be purchased at many kiosks and shops for 3000₮. You load credit and touch it to the reader when entering the bus. If you touch it on the reader when getting off you can get a second ride for free if you board within 30 minutes. As in any city, be wary of pickpockets on the buses, especially when the buses are crowded. ===By foot=== Within the quite compact city center, walking is a viable option. Ulaanbaatar stretches from east to west along the aforementioned Peace Avenue, making navigating the center a cinch. Outside the center, in the ''ger'' districts, it's a different story entirely: a good city map, available at the airport or the '''Mongolian Government Map Shop''', is a must if you plan to go off the beaten path. You'll find the map shop directly on the Ikh Toiruu ring road: head west three blocks from the State Department Store, then turn right (north) at the first traffic light and proceed for about half a block. The Map Shop is behind the blue and yellow '''Elba Appliance''' store. ==See== Most tourist sites have a separate camera/video fee (typically 5000-10,000₮) in addition to the entrance fee. ===Monasteries=== [[File:Gandantegchinlen Monastery (2024).jpg|thumb|Gandantegchinlen Monastery]] [[File:Green Palace Bogd Khan 149185394 bfcc8db25b b.jpg|thumb|Bogd Khan Winter Palace]] * {{see | name=Choijin Lama Monastery | alt=Чойжин ламын сүм | url=http://www.templemuseum.mn/welcome | email=info@templemuseum.mn | address= | lat=47.91475 | long=106.91843 | directions=one block east of the National Library | phone=+976 11 32478 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-19:30 in summer, closed on Sundays and Mondays during winter | price=8000₮, students 3000₮, children 1500₮, photography fee 50,000₮ | wikipedia=Choijin Lama Temple | image=Choijin Lama Ulan Bator 149198611 958f1f4abd o.jpg | wikidata=Q2093410 | content=These five temples and five arched gates are a unique showcase of religious art and the history of Buddhism in Mongolia, a gem of 20th century Mongolian cultural heritage, and a fine example of Buddhist architecture. Choijin Lama Monastery was active until 1938, was inscribed in 1941 on the list of historical and cultural monuments, and became a museum the following year. In the main temple you'll find the sculpture of the Choijin Lama and the embalmed mummy of his teacher, as well as the great coral mask of Begtse, created under the direction of protectors using over 6,000 pieces of coral. Elsewhere in the complex, '''Yadam Temple''' and '''Amgalan Temple''' contain rare artifacts made by the famous Mongolian artist and sculptor, Zanabazar. }} * {{see | name=Gandantegchinlen Monastery | alt=Gandantegchinlen Khiid or Gandan Monastery | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92248 | long=106.89534 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=4000₮ | wikipedia=Gandantegchinlen Monastery | image=Gandantegchinlen Monastery (2024).jpg | wikidata=Q965633 | content=The main monastery in the city has services around 10:00 every morning. It is one of the few monasteries in the country that were spared during the Communist purges of the 1930s. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Bogd Khan Winter Palace Museum | alt=Богд хааны ордон музей | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.89666 | long=106.90783 | directions=about {{km|2.5}} south of Chinggis Square, on Chinggis Avenue in Khan Uul district | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00-17:00 | price=Admission 8000₮, 50,000₮ photography fee | wikipedia=Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan | image=Green Palace Bogd Khan 149185394 bfcc8db25b b.jpg | wikidata=Q1579833 | content=Built between 1893 and 1903 by Mongolian masters, this palace was dedicated to the VIII Bogd Gegeen, head of Tibetan Buddhism and Khan of Mongolia from 1911 until 1924 (the last three years of which were as a constitutional monarch). Upon his death, the palace became the first national historical museum of Mongolia. The museum contains twelve collections showcasing valuable objects and works of art from the 17th to early 20th centuries (notable among which are gilded bronze sculptures by the first Bogd Javzundamba Zanabazar and his school, 19th- and 20th century ''thangka'' paintings, a ''Jugder'' painting of Ulaanbaatar in 1912, and works by modern Mongolian painter B. Sharav), as well as personal possessions of the Khan and his wife, Queen Dondogdulam.. }} * {{see | name=Chinggis Khaan National Museum | alt=Чингис хаан Үндэсний музей | url=https://chinggismuseum.com/en | email=info@chinggismuseum.org | address=J. Sambuu's street, 4th khoroo, Chingeltei District | lat=47.922528 | long=106.914917 | directions=a short distance north of the parliament building | phone=+976 70212222 | tollfree= | hours=09:00-17:00, closed on Mondays during the winter period (1 October to 15 May) | price=Adult 30000₮, families 20000₮, students 15000₮, children 0₮, photo shooting 20000₮ | wikidata=Q120021719 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=International Intellectual Museum | alt=IQ Museum | url=http://www.iqmuseum.mn | email=mitgel@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91746 | long=106.94172 | directions=on Peace Avenue in Bayanzürkh district, in front of East Center | phone=+976 11 461470 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-18:00 | price=Admission for non Mongolians 15.000₮, children 500₮ | wikipedia=International Intellectual Museum | image=International Intellectual Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q10926251 | lastedit=2024-12-05 | content=This museum not only displays but also manufactures and exports a wide variety of traditional Mongolian puzzle toys, logic games, handcrafted products, and souvenirs, and has launched over 80 international exhibitions and fairs in 50 countries. }} * {{see | name=Natural History Museum | alt=Байгалийн түүхийн музей | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.9233 | long=106.9059 | directions=Freedom Square, next to Tengis Cinema and directly behind State Department Store; at the site of the former Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs | phone=+976 7000 0171 | tollfree= | hours=Tu–Su 10:00-18:00 (closed Monday) | price=Admission 2000₮ | wikipedia=Mongolian Natural History Museum | image=Natural History Museum (Ulaanbaatar).jpg | wikidata=Q2154359 | content=The complete fossil of the ''Tarbosaurus bataar'' — a close cousin of the larger T. Rex that serves as the centerpiece of this museum's impressive collection — was stolen from Mongolia by American archaeologist Eric Prokopi and auctioned in [[New York City|New York]] for $1 million. The ensuing news coverage set off an international criminal case resulting in Prokopi's arrest and the return of dozens of dinosaur fossils to Mongolia by the U.S. government, which make up the bulk of this museum's collection. In the former '''Lenin Museum''' on Freedom Square, the museum contains a couple dozen other complete dinosaur fossils besides the ''Tarbosaurus'', all of which were found in the Gobi Desert. }} * {{see | name=National Museum of Mongolia | alt=Монголын Үндэсний музей | url=http://nationalmuseum.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.92036 | long=106.91538 | directions=just west of the Government House | phone=+976 70110911, +976 70110913 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 08:00-22:00, last entry 20:30 | price=Admission 5000₮, photography fee 5000₮ | wikipedia=National Museum of Mongolia | image=National Museum of Mongolia (2023).jpg | wikidata=Q2154176 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=This is the main museum in the capital and should be a first stop on any visit to the city, as it holds the most important artifacts of Mongolia's rich history dating back several thousand years. These include ethnographic displays of various Mongolian tribes, petroglyphs and cave drawings, Turkic monuments, weapons, armor, and various displays from the various eras of Mongolian history: the Hun and Mongol Empires, Chinese rule, the Communist era, and the democratic revolution of 1990. There are displays of self-portraits and personal possessions of Genghis Khan and other great khans of the Mongol Empire. Most displays are in English and Mongolian... }} * {{see | name=Marshall Zhukov House Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.917972 | long=106.953 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19615122 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ulaanbaatar City Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.91806 | long=106.93583 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ulaanbaatar City Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q2368924 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=A museum established from a building built by a Soviet merchant. It used to house the embassy of the Tuvan People's Republic and a printing house. }} ===Art museums and galleries=== [[File:Akshobhya by Zanabazar.jpg|thumb|Akshobhya by Zanabazar, in the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts]] * {{see | name=National Art Gallery of Mongolia | alt= | url=http://www.art-gallery.mn/mn | email=info@art-gallery.mn | address= | lat=47.91961 | long=106.92109 | directions=at the Central Cultural Palace on Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 327177 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-18:00 | price=Admission 2000₮, students 1000₮, children 500₮ | wikipedia=National Art Gallery of Mongolia | image=National Art Gallery of Mongolia.jpg | wikidata=Q17034485 | content=A surprisingly good modern art museum that displays the vibrancy of the local art scene. There are temporary exhibits throughout the year as well as a permanent collection. }} * {{see | name=The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum | alt=Занабазарын нэрэмжит Дүрслэх урлагийн музей | url=http://www.zanabazarmuseum.mn/ | email=info@zanabazarfam.mn | address= | lat=47.92013 | long=106.90911 | directions=two blocks west of the Government House, on Barilgachdin Square | phone=+976 11 326060 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-17:00 (summer), 10:00-17:00 (winter) | price=Admission 5000₮ | image=The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q2370206 | content=The collection includes items from the Stone Age to the 20th century. Particularly interesting is the collection of Buddhist art from the 17th century and later.. }} * {{see | name=Mongolian Art Center for Children's Creativity | alt=Монголын хүүхдийн урлан бүтээх төв | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.926788 | long=106.916114 | directions=Ankara Street | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mongol Art Gallery | alt=Монгол Арт Галерейн | url= | email= | address=Dunjingarav Street | lat=47.904528 | long=106.948806 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q123347067 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Russian Science and Culture Center | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tokyo Street | lat=47.92625 | long=106.935278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Russian Science and Culture Center.jpg | wikidata=Q130382522 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Art House Center | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/arthouse.mongolia/ | email=arthousemn@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.920312 | long=106.907411 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-15 | content= }} ===Monuments and memorials=== [[File:Monumento ruso en Ulan Bator, Mongolia.jpg|thumb|Zaisan War Memorial]] * {{see | name=Sükhbaatar Square | alt=Сүхбаатарын талбай | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91898 | long=106.91777 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chinggis Square | image=Panorama Ulan Bator 13.JPG | wikidata=Q1348864 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=The big open space in the center of the city with an equestrian '''statue of Damdin Sükhbaatar''', warrior-hero of the 1921 People's Revolution, as well as a seated statue of Genghis Khan that sits at the door of the '''Government House'''. Inside the Government House is a small museum with artifacts from the Mongol Empire and a reproduction of Genghis Khan's White Peace Banners of State (the Soviets had the originals destroyed in the 1930s)... }} * {{see | name=Zaisan Memorial | alt=Зайсан толгой | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.885 | long=106.91564 | directions=about 3½ km directly south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Zaisan Memorial | image=World War II in Ulaanbaatar (6228546502).jpg | wikidata=Q144444 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=A huge Communist-era monument on a hill near the city depicting the Russian and Mongolian heroes who fought together during the First and Second World Wars. Nowadays it is a popular viewpoint where you can see over the whole city. There's also a huge Buddhist statue at the bottom. }} * {{see | name=Friendship Railways Height | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.909418 | long=106.883918 | directions=Right across the road in front of Ulaanbaatar Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Friendship Railways Height.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} Despite news about the removal of Lenin's statue, Ulaanbaatar still boasts a wealth of other interesting statues and public art beyond what's mentioned above. Prominently, former Communist leaders Choibalsan and Tsedenbal are memorialized north of the Government House, as is Sanjaasürengiin Zorig, leader of the 1990 democratic revolution, at a location southwest of Chinggis Square. There are also many lesser-known statues scattered through the city: there's a bust of Stalin inside a beer garden south of Chinggis Square, some old Soviet murals on the side of apartment buildings north of the Bogd Khan Winter Palace, and you'll even see The Beatles and the villain from the movie ''Predator'' holding court in front of the State Department Store and in front of a small office building 100 m northeast of there, respectively. ===Sport venues=== * {{see | name=AIC Steppe Arena | alt= | url=https://steppearena.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.847555 | long=106.793059 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65066205 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Buyant Ukhaa Sport Palace | alt= | url=http://www.sport.gov.mn/ | email= | address=Ulziit Road | lat=47.85444 | long=106.78417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4155958 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=UG Arena | alt= | url=https://ugarena.mn/ | email=marketing@urangan.mn | address= | lat=47.904667 | long=106.899266 | directions= | phone= +976 77712111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ===Parks, gardens and nature=== * {{see | name=National Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bayanzürkh | lat=47.898528 | long=106.947667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q131416188 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ulaanbaatar Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=corner of Narnii Road and Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.909162 | long=106.916782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ulaanbaatar Park.jpg | wikidata=Q131424861 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Yavuuhulan Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address=Noyon Hutagt Danzanravjaa Street | lat=47.918333 | long=106.909111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q131424582 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Korea-Mongolia Friendship Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dambadarjaa Street, Sükhbaatar | lat=47.984333 | long=106.949694 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Korea-Mongolia Friendship Forest | wikidata=Q131424610 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Amgalan Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.910082 | long=107.000472 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Günjiin Nüden Lake | alt=Гүнжийн Нүдэн Нуур | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.949191 | long=106.838245 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Do== ===Outdoors=== *'''Bogd Uul''', the mountain ridge south of town, is a great place for a hike. To get there, take the #7, #33 or #43 bus from in front of the Bayangol Hotel to the south end of the line. From there, the road continues south about 100 m, whereupon you'll come to a checkpoint. Proceed, bear left when the road forks, and you'll soon find yourself in a ''ger'' camp with a small stream flowing north. This is where the hiking path itself begins, on the left (east) side of the stream. At the top of the ridge, veer west and proceed through the woods for an easy amble of about two or three hours (you'll come to a high point about 500 m past the turn). At the end of that stretch, you have the option of either branching off to the west or else continuing straight and slightly east to Bogd Uul Mountain (this path is marked with orange paint marks on the trees). That part of the trip is quite long — about 10 km one-way — and more challenging, with varying elevations. *{{do | name=Sky Resort | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/skyresortofficial/ | email=info@skyresort.mn | address= | lat=47.8728 | long=107.04537 | directions=13 km from city center. Go south to Zaisan, then east along the river past the President's Residence | phone=+976 11 320345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=07:00-22:00 | price=Under US$20 | wikipedia=Sky Resort | wikidata=Q7537479 | content=A winter sports resort offering downhill skiing, snowboarding, lifts, equipment rental, ski and snowboard school, and an onsite restaurant. There's a free bus from the Drama Center (next to the Grand Khan Irish Pub) with departures between 08:00 and 19:30 (frequent service on weekends, more sporadic midweek; check schedule to verify bus times). }} [[Image:Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Naadam Festival in July]] ===Festivals=== * {{do | name=Naadam | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Sports Stadium (Mongolia) | image=Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg | wikidata=Q1451543 | content=The largest and most famous festival in Mongolia, Naadam is held annually from July 11-13 and consists of competitions in the three traditional Mongolian sports of wrestling, horse-racing and archery. The {{marker|type=do|name=National Sports Stadium|lat=47.90258|long=106.91538}}, besides being the main venue for the festival, also serves as the country's main football and baseball stadium as well as a venue for occasional concerts and cultural events. }} * {{do | name=Playtime Festival | alt= | url=https://playtimefestival.com/home_eng | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q121432894 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Mongolia's largest annual outdoor music festival. }} ===Theatre and performance=== * {{do | name=National Academic Drama Theater | alt=Улсын драмын эрдмийн театр | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91507 | long=106.91473 | directions=in the red Georgian building just south of the Post Office on Chinggis Avenue | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Prices vary, generally cheap for Mongolian-language performances | wikipedia=Mongolian State Academic Drama Theatre | image=State Academic Drama Theater.jpg | wikidata=Q6899648 | content=Mostly presents Mongolian plays in drama, musicals, or children's performances. Tickets are sold at the "KACC" office in front.... }} * {{do | name=ASA Arena | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91206 | long=106.90776 | directions=on Seoul Street south of the State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=ASA Arena | image=ASA Arena.jpg | wikidata=Q56284752 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Home to the world-famous Mongolian contortionists, where most of the world's professional contortionists get their start. The circus also features animals, jugglers, and other entertainment. }} * {{do | name=State Opera and Ballet Theater | alt=National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Mongolia | url=http://www.opera-ballet.mn | email=opera_ballet@yahoo.com | address=Chinggis Square | lat=47.91843 | long=106.91924 | directions=in the pinkish building on the southeast side of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Box office W-Su 10:00-13:00, 14:00-17:00 | price=Prices vary by performance, local productions can be very inexpensive | wikipedia=Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet | image=Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet.jpg | wikidata=Q559620 | content=While visiting Chinggis Square, it may be worthwhile to check out the board in front of this theatre to see if there is an upcoming performance. Most performances are at 17:00 Saturday and Sunday. Local performances may not be great, but are very cheap. Ballet troupes and opera companies from Russia also occasionally visit.. }} * {{do | name=Tumen Ekh | alt= | url=https://tumen-ekh.mn/ | email=info@tumen-ekh.mn | address= | lat=47.91277 | long=106.91609 | directions=south of the Main Square, west of Shangri-La hotel, in the Children's Palace | phone=+976 11 322238 | tollfree= | hours=Daily performances from May-Oct at 18:00, on weekdays in Oct-Nov 15th | price=30,000₮ | lastedit=2023-08-28 | content=A traditional dance ensemble founded in 1989 that performs dances, music and religious ceremonies for audiences of mostly foreign tourists. Performances last about an hour and are far from the usual tourist schlock: these very skilled artists take their work seriously and have been on tour in the U.S., UK and other countries. }} * {{do | name=Mongolian Theatre Museum | alt= | url=https://mongoliantheatremuseum.com/ | email= | address=Amar St | lat=47.9199 | long=106.9195 | directions=on the 3rd floor of the Central Cultural Palace Building | phone=+976 11 31 1320 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6899660 | lastedit=2023-12-19 | content=A performing arts museum founded in 1991 presenting the history of Mongolian film and theatre.. }} * {{do | name=Wrestling Palace | alt=Bökhiin Örgöö | url= | email= | address=Bayanzürkh | lat=47.917917 | long=106.935278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bökhiin Örgöö | image=Wrestling Palace.jpg | wikidata=Q2154011 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=Sports complex that is home to the Mongolian wrestling competitions and also hosts music concerts. }} * {{do | name=Ganzam Palace | alt=Ганзам палас | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.915134 | long=106.885202 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ganzam Palace.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{do | name=HUN Theater | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/HUNTheatre/ | email=info.huntheatre@gmail.com | address=Sky Resort Road | lat=47.879228 | long=107.042646 | directions= | phone=+976 77774488 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{do | name=Youth Theater | alt= | url=http://youththeatre.mn/ | email=info@youththeatre.mn | address= | lat=47.936977 | long=106.813443 | directions= | phone=+97675991133 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ===Miscellaneous=== * Get an inexpensive '''massage''' at one of the many massage spas on Peace Avenue. * {{do | name=National Amusement Park | alt=Үндэсний соёл амралтын хүрээлэн | url=https://www.facebook.com/park.mongolia | email= | address= | lat=47.90842 | long=106.9237 | directions=500 m south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:00-19:00 year round | price=1000₮ to enter plus extra for each ride | image=Mongolian National Amusement Park Castle.JPG | wikidata=Q110014267 | content=Open since 1969, the park today features a steel roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, a castle surround by an artificial lake, and bowling. }} ==Learn== The {{marker|type=listing|name=[http://mongoliacenter.org/ American Center for Mongolian Studies]|lat=47.91964|long=106.90870|zoom=18}} (ACMS) provides in-depth insight via an academic approach into Mongolian culture. The center has a study room and library of Mongolia-related material, with Internet access. It is on the campus of the '''Mongolian National University''', on the third floor of Building #5. As well, there are several '''Mongolian-language schools''' throughout the city. On Facebook look for various learning clubs or English-learning local clubs offering local meetups and you may attend some of them to learn local culture or to participate in interesting local activities. ==Buy== [[File:Socialist architecture (6216616617).jpg|thumb|Post-WWII architecture in the city center]] Cash is becoming less and less common, with many shops, eateries, and even street vendors and taxi drivers accepting bank transfer (using SMS or banking apps), QR code payment (multiple systems in use), and debit/credit cards. As a visitor, have cash and a paywave-enabled card. It's relatively easy to find an ATM to withdraw cash. Most ATMs accept foreign credit and debit cards to withdraw ''tögrög'' (the local currency) as long as you have informed your bank ahead of time as to your Mongolian travel plans; most will charge you a foreign currency conversion fee of about 3%. Besides Visa, other card types are also accepted, but not as widely: for example, the machines in the Central Post Office and along the main street will not accept foreign MasterCards, although they bear the logo. The only ATM that accepts Cirrus cards is the one at the airport. UB also has many banks and exchange offices where ''tögrög'' can be obtained. Golomt and TDB are the most reliable banks for currency exchange, the former of which can give up to US$500 per day cash advance on MasterCard and Visa and also accepts American Express. Exchange offices can mainly be found along Peace Avenue in the city center, including one on the ground floor of the '''State Department Store'''. However, you'll find better rates at the one on the second floor of the '''Flower Center''', on Peace Avenue one block west of the Post Office. Lastly, major hotels like the '''Ulaanbaatar Hotel''' will exchange money 24/7 at the reception, which may be your only option if you arrive very late in the day. Keep in mind that you'll need a form of ID to exchange foreign currency - a passport will do. See [[Mongolia#Money]] for exchange rates for the ''tögrög''. ===Major shopping centers=== * {{buy | name=State Department Store | alt=Улсын Их Дэлгүүр | url=https://www.facebook.com/UlsiinIkhDelguur | email= | address= | lat=47.917028 | long=106.90625 | directions=west of Chinggis Square on Peace Avenue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-22:00 | price= | wikidata=Q125944026 | content=Formerly a state-owned department store (hence the name), today it is the busiest luxury shopping mall in the city, with everything from groceries to cashmere to TVs sold on all six floors of the building. Though privately owned nowadays, the customer service still has a certain impersonal, bureaucratic feel. Check out the fifth floor for the largest souvenir shops in UB. }} * {{buy | name=3rd & 4th Microdistrict | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92285 | long=106.88144 | directions=northwest side of Gandan, 2 km north of the train station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=You'll find several malls, name-brand stores, restaurants, supermarkets, curbside booths, and a movie theater at UB's largest shopping district. Selection ranges from luxury brands down to cheap Chinese imports. Traffic congestion is heavy in this part of the city. }} * {{buy | name=Emart Department stores | alt=Emart | url= | email= | address= | lat=47 | long=106 | directions=at the north of Chingis Khaan hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-10-15 | image=Ulaanbaatar (22933227425).jpg | content=This subsidiary of the South Korean retailer has three department stores in Ulaanbaatar that offer mostly South Korean and some domestic goods. It has a good groceries department as well. The first store is just north of Chingis Khaan Hotel, the second is in Bayangol district, and the third is in Khan Uul district. }} * {{buy | name=Galleria Ulaanbaatar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/GalleriaUlaanbaatar | email= | address=Ikh Surguuli Street | lat=47.920583 | long=106.919111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130259098 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Gegeenten Entertainment Center | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaisan Street | lat=47.897099 | long=106.908772 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Gegeenten Entertainment Center.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Hunnu Mall | alt=Хүннү Молл | url=https://hunnumall.mn/ | email=info@hunnumall.mn | address=Naadamchid Road | lat=47.878675 | long=106.851142 | directions= | phone=+976 77112222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ===Markets=== [[File:Khar Zakh (Black Market), Ulan Bator, Mongolia.jpg|thumb|Items for sale at the Naran Tuul (Black Market)]] * {{buy | name=Narantuul Market | alt=Black Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.90814 | long=106.94645 | directions=3 km east of the children's park on Narni Zam road | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Closed on Monday | price= | wikipedia=Narantuul Market | image=Narantuul Market.jpg | wikidata=Q130051111 | content=The main market for most of the city's residents, Naran Tuul is the place to go to shop like a local. Haggle over cheap clothes, toys, fur hats, vintage Soviet propaganda pins, or anything you can imagine in a vast, partially indoor retail emporium a 10-minute bus or taxi ride from the city center. There are also several slightly more upscale shopping centers just west of the market. Only take a minimum of cash with you in a money belt or inner jacket pocket and leave all valuables at your accommodation, as pickpockets are common here. }} ===Souvenir shops=== Ulaanbaatar has a host of souvenir shops aimed at both Western and East Asian tourists, mostly along Peace Avenue west of Chinggis Square. Traditional clothes, boots and hats, cashmere garments, jewelry, leather wall hangings, miniature ''gers'', bow-and-arrow sets, and paintings are among the typical inventory. While the quality of the goods varies, prices are usually high. * {{buy | name=Flower Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91691 | long=106.91218 | directions=corner of Peace Avenue and Ikh Toiruu ring road, west of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the larger souvenir shops in the city; a broad selection, but a bit pricey. There is a money exchange center on the second floor. }} * {{buy | name=Mary & Martha | alt= | url=http://www.mmmongolia.com/ | email=info.mmmongolia@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91739 | long=106.91011 | directions=north of the State Department Store bus stop, look for the signs | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small free-trade shop full of beautiful handmade souvenirs, handbags, and wall hangings. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Librairie Papillon | url=https://www.facebook.com/librairie.papillon/ | email= | address= | lat=47.9224 | long=106.9179 | directions=on University Avenue, just past the main Mongolian National University building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers high-quality English-language books about Mongolia, resources for learning the Mongolian language, and a selection of classic literature to read on your journey. The atmosphere feels like taking a little break from Mongolia and entering [[France]]. }} * {{buy | name=Mike's Bookstore | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/Books-in-English-316361135178963/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91585 | long=106.9051 | directions=south of the Bayangol Hotel, west of the New Building | phone=+976 9903 6703 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used books are bought and sold here. There's even a buyback policy. Selection is mostly but not exclusively English-language. }} ===Miscellaneous=== * {{buy | name=Seven Summits Outdoor Shop | alt= | url=http://sevensummits-shop.com | email=maira@activemongolia.com | address= | lat=47.916263 | long=106.915070 | directions=on Peace Avenue 50 m west of Chinggis Square, in a row of shops on the south side of the street | phone=+976 11 329456 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-09 | content=If you're looking for gear you can't find elsewhere, ''e.g.'' an adaptor for a screw-on stove to use the ubiquitous clip-on cylinders, since screw-on types seem to be unavailable anywhere, Seven Summits is your place. They're a bit on the pricey side, though. }} ==Eat== Ulaanbaatar has a good range of options serving Mongolian, Asian (particularly Korean and Chinese), and Western cuisine — and at decent prices. For instance, you can get perfectly good pizza for 5000₮, and even a night out at a fancy French cafe shouldn't pass 30,000₮. Consider splurging on a couple of good meals here, especially if you're headed for a long trek into the country where fresh vegetables and the like are often hard to come by and prohibitively expensive. Best of all, UB's rapidly growing wealth has meant a steady procession of ever newer, ever higher-quality restaurants, as well as the appearance of international chains like '''KFC''', '''Round Table Pizza''', and '''Cinnabon'''. === Vegan === Mongolia's Buddhist history means that vegan and vegetarian restaurants are plentiful, and quality is high. Traditional Mongolian foods like ''buuz'' (steamed dumplings) and ''khushuur'' (fried dumplings) have vegan versions available at vegan restaurants; if you have dietary restrictions, you won't have to miss out on traditional food. '''In the city centre around the Sukhbaatar Square''' * {{eat | name=Luna Blanca | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/LunaBlancaRestaurant/ | email=luna@lunablanca.org | address= | lat=47.91981 | long=106.91393 | directions=across the street from and just west of the National Museum near Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 9907-7885 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 11:00-20:00, Sa-Su 12:00-20:00 | price=Around 4000₮ (Feb 2018) | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Good-quality vegan food. Attached to a Buddhist meditation centre, therefore short opening hours (closes around 9pm).<br />If you're looking to self-cater they also sell a modest selection of groceries including vegan sausages. }} * {{eat | name=Vegan House Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=south-east corner of the intersection of Ikh Toiruu and Seoul St | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Numerous vegan options including very good buuz. }} * {{eat | name=Loving Hut - Barilgachdyn Talbai | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=across the street and slightly west from Zanabazar Museum | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=The best of several Loving Huts scattered across UB. }} * {{eat | name=Agnista Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in a small business center in the middle of a city block just West of the Parliament Building | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Wide variety of Mongolian and Western food, as well as frozen buuz that you can bring home. }} * {{eat | name=Agnista Vegan Food | alt= | url= | email= | address=706 Seoul St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Similar to the other Agnista but with less of a crowd during lunchtime. }} * {{eat | name=Bosco Verde | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=beside ASA Arena | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Italian vegetarian restaurant }} ===Budget=== [[File:Mongolian Street Food.jpg|thumb|Mongolian street food]] Throughout Ulaanbaatar are many small canteens ''(Гуанз)'' and coffeeshops ''(Цайны Газар)''. Try one of these for cheap Mongolian food. ''Buuz'' usually costs 400-600₮. As well, most universities (particularly the '''Mongolian National University''' and the '''Mongolian University of Science and Technology''') have good cheap cafeterias with meals from 1800₮ to about 2500₮. '''[https://www.khaanbuuz.mn/ Khaan Buuz]''' (Хаан Бууз) serves up set meals of Mongolian favorites (buuz is a Mongolian meat dumpling) from 5000₮, just look for the lime green facades. '''CU''' and '''GS25''' are ubiquitous Korean-style convenience stores that offer good cheap fast food and eating space at their stores; prices range from 2000-8500₮. Be circumspect of frozen foods, check for freezer burn, and products tainted from power failures and spoilage. ====Around the State Department Store==== * {{eat | name=Joe's Corner Burgers | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91826 | long=106.90632 | directions=tucked between the apartment buildings behind the State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Stops serving around 21:00 | price=4000-5500₮ | lastedit= | content=Burgers and hot dogs, with fries: probably the best value in UB for this kind of American fare. }} ====East Ulaanbaatar near the International Intellectual Museum==== * {{eat | name=Papa Cafe | alt= | url= | email=papacafe2010@gmail.com | address=Их Монгол Улсын гудамж | lat=47.91908 | long=106.93987 | directions=second building east from the British Embassy on Peace Avenue, next to a parking lot, on the second floor | phone=+976 11 461687 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-21:00, Sa 09:00-21:00 | price=4000-7000₮ | lastedit= | content=Burgers, chicken burgers, espresso and baked goods. On Saturday they open at 09:00 and serve a breakfast special of one large waffle with fresh fruit, ice cream, bacon, Mongolian blueberry jam and syrup, plus coffee and other drinks. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{eat | name=Chinggis Club | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92653 | long=106.91445 | directions=two and a half blocks blocks north of Chinggis Square via the street passing along its west side | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=10:00-24:00 | price=US$10 | content=The '''Chinggis Brewery'''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s in-house restaurant, serving German cuisine and (of course) their own locally brewed light and dark beers on tap. }} * {{eat | name=Hishig Mongol Zoog | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91300 | long=106.86367 | directions=on Peace Avenue several kilometers west of the State Department Store, near the third hospital | phone=+976 7017 8158 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$6-10 | content=If you want to experience authentic Mongolian cuisine, this is the place. Serves roasted sheep head, roasted ribs, ''buuz'', and dried meat soup. No foreign-language menu or staff, though. }} *{{eat | name=Millie's Espresso | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Millies-Espresso-195142818141/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91433 | long=106.9179 | directions=on the west side of the Choijin Lama Monastery | phone=+976 11 33 0338 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-20:00 | price=US$10 | content=Good selection of American-style coffeeshop fare, including some vegetarian options. Free Wi-Fi. }} *{{eat | name=Nayra Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nayra-Cafe/184137758298553 | email= | address= | lat=47.91991 | long=106.90754 | directions=two blocks west of the Government House | phone= +976 11 31 7098 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=opens 08:00 | price=Most under 8000₮ | content=Good pizza, sandwiches, and coffee. Free WiFi. }} * {{eat | name=Venus Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92617 | long=106.91010 | directions=two blocks east and then three blocks north of the State Department Store, on the left a few doors past the French Bakery | phone=+976 1327496 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=lunch, dinner | price=US$10 for dinner, lunch set menu US$5 | content=Malaysian specialties including masala, roti, and spicy curries. }} * {{eat | name=Modern Nomads | alt=several restaurants in town | url=http://www.modernnomads.mn/index.php?r=1&lang=en | email= | address= | lat=47.9138 | long=106.9218 | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent variety and quality for both locals and tourists. Good, clean toilets are an added bonus. |lastedit=2018-02-28}} * {{eat | name=Hurrem Sultan Turkish Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.904976 | long=106.911325 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Hurrem Sultan Turkish Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Turkish restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Pakistani & Indian Cuisine | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Halalfoodrestaurantmn | email= | address=Baruun Selbe Street | lat=47.918296 | long=106.907029 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pakistani & Indian Cuisine.jpg | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Halal Indian Pakistani restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.904049 | long=106.911058 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Indian restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Lanzhou Beef Noodles | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.905213 | long=106.911432 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Lanzhou Beef Noodles (Khan Uul, Ulaanbaatar).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Chinese restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Lale Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mongolian National University, L. Enebish Avenue | lat=47.925556 | long=106.892034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Lale Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal restaurant, part of the Mongolian National University }} ===Splurge=== It's hard to spend outrageous sums of money eating out in Ulaanbaatar: the most expensive meals in the city will be around 60,000₮ a person. That is, unless you're drinking: whiskey or any other non-vodka liquors can be a bit pricey. * '''Caucasia:''' Just behind the circus. Serving Armenian and Georgian cuisine. Excellent quality. * '''Chojin''': In front of the Chojin Lama Museum on the ground floor of an office building. Serves a small but excellent selection of Mediterranean dishes. Very popular business dinner location for the locals. Reservation recommended. * '''Hana Japanese Restaurant'''. On Chinggis Avenue next to the National Library, on the first floor of an office building. Impossible to spot from the outside, just go in and ask at the reception. You get advised to follow a fire security stairway up. Despite the non-glamorous arrival, the Hana is a high-end Japanese restaurant. Elegant atmosphere. Excellent Japanese dishes including udon soups, sushi and barbecue. Meals up to 30.000 T. Including starters and drinks, be prepared to spend 50.000-60.000 T. * {{eat | name=California Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91296 | long=106.90093 | directions=on Seoul Street, west of the circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=10,000-30,000₮ per meal | content=Extensive menu of both foreign and Mongolian specialties. Beautifully decorated, high-quality food including vegetarian specialties (good tofu!) It's a bit small, but in the summer there is additional outside seating. Reservations are advised. }} * {{eat | name=Hazara North Indian Restaurant | alt= | url=http://hazara.mn | email=hazaraub@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91728 | long=106.93516 | directions=behind the Wrestling Palace | phone=+976 99195007, +976 11 480214 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From 10,000&nbsp;₮ | content=Serving spicy North Indian, Kashmiri, and Afghani food since 1997. Food is all halal, with vegan options available. Well-decorated restaurant and costumed waitresses can make you think you are in [[Delhi]] instead of Mongolia. }} * {{eat | name=Los Bandidos | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92601 | long=106.91809 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road, not far north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 1131 4167 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$7-10 | content=Mexican-Indian fusion: don't knock it until you taste the spicy chicken masala or crispy ''taquitos''. The prices are higher now than they used to be, but the atmosphere has improved along with it. }} * {{eat | name=Namaste Indian Restaurant | alt= | url=http://namaste.mn/ | email=namaste.ub@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.92419 | long=106.93752 | directions=at the Flower Hotel | phone=+976 99270957 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=20,000₮ | content=Mongolia's first halal-certified restaurant, serves some of the best Indian food in the city. There is another location on the Outer Ring Road in the Impex building. }} *{{eat | name=Turning Point Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91500 | long=106.90708 | directions=on Tserendorj Street, three blocks west of Chinggis Square via Peace Avenue and then half a block south | phone=+976 7011 9940 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Sandwiches for 12,000₮ | content=Jazz-themed restaurant and bar featuring modern decor, international cuisine, and a wide range of beer, wine and cocktails. Regular live entertainment. }} ===Grocery stores=== * {{eat | name=Good Price Supermarket | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91293 | long=106.90070 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-22:00 | price= | content=Catering to expats and well-heeled locals, Good Price is Mongolia's most reliable source of luxuries such as peanut butter, breakfast cereals, canned beans, and cheese. But don't be fooled by the place's astoundingly inaccurate name: these luxuries come at a much higher cost than at any other supermarket in the country. }} * {{eat | name=Mercury Food Market | alt=Chinese Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91206 | long=106.90377 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Closed on Mondays | price= | content=This small market in the city center is one of the best places to get imported fruits, vegetables, and packaged goods. }} * {{eat | name=eMart | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.923129 | long=106.934337 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The eMart store at the Chingis Khaan hotel is a subsidiary of the South Korean grocery chain that sells medium- to good-quality groceries, especially good vegetables and fruits. The second branch is at the Urgoo cinema in Bayangol district and the third branch is at Zaisan. The second floor is consumer goods and the first floor is grocery. }} * {{eat | name=eMart 2nd branch | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.922927 | long=106.867317 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The eMart store is a subsidiary of the South Korean grocery chain that sells medium- to good-quality of groceries, especially good vegetables and fruits. The second branch is at the Urgoo cinema in Bayangol district and the third branch is at Zaisan. The second floor is consumer goods and first floor is grocery. }} * {{eat | name=State Department Store | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.916721 | long=106.906278 | directions=West of Sukhbaatar Square on Peace Avenue, this 6-floor building has its English name prominently displayed. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The State Department Store is the main store of Nomin food chain stores. Groceries are on the first floor. There are a book shop and souvenir shops on the fifth floor. In the intermediate floors clothing, electronics, and house accessories are available. Food items can be returned within 24 hours and other non-food items can be returned within few weeks or months depending on the type of merchandise. The receipt must be presented. }} ==Drink== === Bars === Nightlife in Ulaanbaatar is surprisingly wild, especially on Wednesday, Saturday, and (above all) Friday nights, when finding a seat is nearly impossible. If you like raving the night away to trance, techno, electronica, and house music, this is the scene for you. Beer in clubs costs about 3500₮, while other drinks such as vodka are sold by quantity: for example a 100g vodka costs about 4500₮. According to state law, all clubs and pubs (bars) must stop serving alcohol after midnight and close at 03:00, but some clubs stay open (and continue serving!) until 04:00. On the other hand, the prohibition against serving alcohol on the 1st of each month is universally adhered to, even if it falls on a weekend. Especially after dark, and especially on the aforementioned three busiest days of the week, it's best to go out clubbing in groups rather than alone: not only will you be less likely to run afoul of shady characters, but authorities take a hard line against public intoxication, and the Mongolian drunk tank is not a pleasant place to be. As well, the clubs in the 3rd district and the Sansar microdistrict are best avoided. Be sure to apologize if you hit someone or step on their feet accidentally, because this is a rather considerable breach of local etiquette. If you step on someone's feet accidentally, offer to shake their hand. This is Mongolian custom, and will also win you praise and respect amongst locals. *{{drink | name=Ambrosia Restaurant | url=https://www.facebook.com/ambrosiaeventhall/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91343 | long=106.91548 | directions=across Chinggis Avenue from KFC, south of the Post Office | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=3000₮ for a beer | content=A nice little restaurant that turns into a club at night, with good drink specials. Popular with foreigners. }} *{{drink | name=Ikh Mongol | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91322 | long=106.90792 | directions=next to the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=3500₮ a half-liter and up | content=Patrons of this brewpub can choose between the main dining area, the fancy VIP upstairs, or secluded tables in the back. Most weekends have concerts from Mongolian bands. In addition to the house brews served on tap, the more popular Mongolian brands are served. }} *{{drink | name=Mass | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mass-Night-Club/263191093695809 | email= | address= | lat=47.91953 | long=106.87466 | directions=in the 3rd/4th microdistrict | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the aforementioned clubs that likes to stay open illicitly past 03:00. Caters to a younger clientele. }} *{{drink | name=Strings | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Strings/208178542535499 | email= | address= | lat=47.91827 | long=106.88992 | directions=in the White House Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A somewhat notorious club frequented by foreigners as well as Asian businessmen. }} If clubbing isn't your thing, UB also has its share of more sedate pubs to choose from. *{{drink | name=Le Bistrot Francais | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/bistrotfrancaisUB | email= | address= | lat=47.92385 | long=106.91794 | directions=on the west side of University Street, a block north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 32 0022 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Enjoy a ''pastis'' and have a nice dinner at the only French restaurant in Ulaanbaatar. }} *{{drink | name=Brauhaus | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91302 | long=106.90284 | directions=on Seoul Street past the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Half-liters run around 2500₮ | image=Brauhaus Exterior.jpg | content=Goes for a German brewhouse look (hence the name) and succeeds. This bar is big but usually not noisy. It serves X Beer, a quite tasty local brew. }} *{{drink | name=Dublin Irish Pub | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91377 | long=106.90632 | directions=on Seoul Street between the State Department Store and the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open until midnight | price= | content=Closer to an actual Irish bar than most. }} *{{drink | name=Grand Khaan Irish Pub | alt= | url=https://gk-irishpub.mn/?lang=en | email= | address= | lat=47.91529 | long=106.9142 | directions=next to the National Drama Theater, south of the Post Office | phone= | tollfree= | hours=12:00-22:00 | price=4000₮ for a beer, 15,000₮ for a meal | image=Grand Khaan Irish Pub.jpg | content=A comfortable sports bar and grill with English-speaking staff. }} === Cafes === Ulaanbaatar's coffee scene is exploding, with multiple Korean coffee chains as well as more boutique offerings available throughout the city. * {{drink | name=ROC Caffeine Bar | url=https://roc.mn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A local coffee franchise with its own roastery and 5 branches. Probably the best coffee to be had in the city. |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Caffe Bene | url=https://www.caffebene.mn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Korean coffee chain offering Korean-style desserts |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Tom N Toms Coffee | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100079466408969 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-25 | content=another Korean coffee chain. }} * {{drink | name=Tous Les Jours | url=https://www.facebook.com/TousLesJoursMongolia/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Korean bakery chain with a good coffee section |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Cafe de Lolita | alt=Кафе де Лолита | url=https://www.facebook.com/cafe.de.lolitaa | email= | address=Chingeltei | lat=47.91875 | long=106.905361 | directions= | phone=+976 88006757 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Cafe de Lolita.jpg | wikidata=Q121355565 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=The first and only maid and anime café in Mongolia. }} ==Sleep== During the annual [[#Festivals|Naadam festival]] in July, it's almost impossible to get any kind of accommodation in UB without prior reservations. ===Budget=== Nowadays, budget accommodation in Ulaanbaatar tends to give the best deals for a traveller. Usually a bed in a clean dormitory costs US$5-10 and a double room should be under US$30 a night. Beyond what's listed below, another option for budget travellers who want a taste of authentic Mongolian culture yet are in a hurry or don't want to do longer trekking trips is a ''ger'' homestay with a herder family living in the countryside outside UB. Usually it is possible to participate in their daily life, ''e.g.'' milking cows or chopping wood. Horseback riding might be offered as well. Some travel agencies are able to establish contact with families, including '''[http://stonehorsemongolia.com/ecotourism/ger-stay/ Stone Horse Mongolia]''' and '''[http://www.gertoger.org Ger to Ger]'''. * {{sleep | name=Bolod's Guesthouse and Tours | url=http://bolodtours.com | email=u_borchy@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.92170 | long=106.90575| directions=across the street from Chinggis Square, enter through gate across from Post Office | phone=+976 99192407 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$7/night | lastedit=2017-06-20 | content=Still UB's most centrally located guesthouse, but the place has gone downhill: where cozy, high-ceilinged, clean and bright rooms once greeted you, you now have small, windowless rooms with noisy refrigerators that wake you up several times a night. There's also no kitchen anymore. The shower, which is in the entrance, is clean, but your privacy is only protected by a translucent glass. English-, Russian-, French-, and Italian-speaking staff are on duty during the daytime only. No credit cards are accepted. Bolod also provides tours at good prices and is known to arrange unique trips involving tank-driving and AK-47 shooting. }} * {{sleep | name=Chinggis Guest House and Tours | url= | email=chingisguest@magicnet.mn | address= | lat=47.91492 | long=106.90604| directions=on Chinggis Avenue behind the National Academic Drama Theatre and Bayangol Hotel | phone=+976 99271843, +976 11-325941 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm US$8, double or twin US$10 | content=Clean and comfortable rooms with breakfast, Internet, hot shower, and use of kitchen facilities included in the price. Centrally located and quiet. }} * {{sleep | name=Gana's Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email=gharchin@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.9216 | long=106.8991 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road northwest of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 1136 7343 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$5 in a 6-bed ''ger'' to $25 for a double in the newly built wing | content=This guesthouse stands out from the rest: rather than the standard setup of spartan dorm rooms with bunk beds, guests are accommodated in roomy ''gers'' set up on an airy porch in an excellent central location overlooking downtown UB, only two minutes on foot from Gandan Monastery. Run by a friendly, helpful family, who like most guesthouse proprietors also double as tour operators. }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Gobi | alt= | url= | email=golden_gobi@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91756 | long=106.90815 | directions=off Peace Avenue close to the State Department Store | phone=+976 11-322632, +976 96654496 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-322632 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorms US$6, private rooms from $19 | content=Another cheap and friendly place with free breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Green Steppe Mongolia Guest House | alt= | url= | email=greensteppemongolia@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91735 | long=106.90871 | directions=50 m east of the State Department Store, off Peace Avenue | phone=+976 88033080, +976 88038388 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=anytime | checkout=noon | price=US$6/night | content=A small and quiet guesthouse comprising a couple of dorm rooms and two fully-furnished one-bedroom apartments, with a pleasant patio out back for picnicking. Friendly staff can organize tours to all parts of Mongolia. Complimentary amenities include breakfast in the morning and tea all day, wireless Internet as well as two wired computer terminals, lockers for guests, secure parking for motorbikes and bicycles, hot showers, and cheap laundry service. }} * {{sleep | name=Idre's Guesthouse | alt= | url=https://tours2mongolia.com/ | email=idrehouse@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91121 | long=106.89446 | directions=14253 Narnii Guur, about 2 km from Chinggis Square; take Seoul Street west then turn left | phone=+976 99112575 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Friendly family-run guesthouse with US$4 dorm beds. Rooms are clean, staff are helpful, and tickets and tours can be arranged without hassle. }} *{{sleep | name=Lotus Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://www.lotuschild.org/ | email= | address= | lat=47.92448 | long=106.91208 | directions=northwest of Chinggis Square, on Ikh Toiruu ring road across from School #5, on the second floor of Building 17 | phone=+976 11 325967 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$10-30/night | content=A nice and clean, if spartan, guesthouse run by the Lotus Foundation. Staff on duty 24 hours a day. Rooms have no high table except the very small one for the computer — and, importantly, '''no bedsheet''', and the quilt is not washed between clients! The shower room doesn't lock, and is closed by a translucent door. Free but unreliable WiFi. No credit cards accepted. }} * {{sleep | name=Oasis Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://intergam-oasis.com/ | email=info@intergam-oasis.com | address= | lat=47.91177 | long=106.98095 | directions=on the southeastern outskirts of town, about 5 km from Chinggis Square via Peace Avenue, near the Catholic church | phone=+976 11-463693 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-463693 | checkin= | checkout= | price=€10 | content=A modern-styled and lovingly furnished guesthouse run by a friendly German-Austrian couple who speak German, English, and Mongolian; lodging is in the spacious ''gers'' outside in the garden. Popular with "overlanders" travelling through Mongolia by car or motorcycle. Oasis' onsite café serves very good Western food including homemade cakes. There's a laundry room and hairdresser at the back of the building. }} * {{sleep | name=Petite Marmotte | alt= | url=http://mongolia-trip.com | email=resa@trekmongolie.com | address= | lat=47.9286 | long=106.9159 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 70 11 03 02, +976 888 243 17 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Bed dorm €5; double room €15; family room €25 (4 to 6 people) | lastedit=2024-05-21 | content=A well-located and quiet guesthouse with rooms decorated in traditional Mongolian style. The friendly staff speaks English and French, and is headed by a former chef who lives onsite and sometimes regales guests with tasty homecooked meals. They can also arrange tours. Wi-fi, washing machine, breakfast included. }} * {{sleep | name=Sunpath Hostel | alt= | url=http://sunpath-mongolia.com | email=info@sunpath-mongolia.com | address= | lat=47.92461 | long=106.91266 | directions=across the street from the Central Post Office and Chinggis Square | phone=+976 99143722 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-326323 | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$6/night | content=Sunpath is a centrally located, family-operated hostel perfect for foreign visitors offering free breakfast, free WiFi, and a publicly accessible wired computer terminal. Laundry service is available for a nominal charge. Kitchen facilities are open to guests. Sunpath's friendly staff organizes tours (having very good contacts with people living in the countryside) and are a wealth of information about Ulaanbaatar and Mongolia in general. }} * {{sleep | name=Town Yard Hostel | alt= | url= | email=oyuna_guest_house@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.919989 | long=106.893853 | directions=near Gandan Monastery | phone=+976 99889997, +976 99173469 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-08-13 | content=Hostel with fluent English-speaking owners situated just a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride to Chinggis Square. Free breakfast (with a menu that changes daily!) and free tea all day; kitchen facilities are also available for guests who'd like to self-cater other meals. They offer tours of (and can arrange accommodation at) [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]], but unlike pretty much every other hostel, they usually lay off the hard sell. Laundry service is available, though it's a bit pricey. }} * {{sleep | name=UB Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://www.ubguesthouse.com/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91936 | long=106.91095 | directions=near Zanzabar Museum; entrance is in the rear of the building facing the Mongol Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm beds US$6; single room $15; twin room $18; double room $20 | content=A clean, well-organized, and centrally located hostel that also arranges tours around the country. E-mail ahead for a free pickup from the train station. A light breakfast, tea and coffee are included. In theory you can use the phone between 10:00 to 18:00, but don't count on it. There's only a hotplate in the kitchen. Only foreigners allowed. No in-room guests. Staff is not terribly friendly. }} * {{sleep | name=Zaya Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://zayahostel.com/ | email=backpackza@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.91670 | long=106.90169 | directions=just off Peace Avenue west of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 331 575 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$20 for a single and US$27 for a double room | content=Zaya has two locations in the city center, both in newly renovated modern apartment buildings. The place is more suitable for a person looking for a clean and quiet place to sleep than a backpacker looking for a rowdy and noisy dorm. Free wireless Internet in the rooms. They also organize tours. }} ===Mid-range=== Ulaanbaatar has plenty of options for budget travellers and big spenders, but not so much for those in the middle. * {{sleep | name=Mandukhai Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91758 | long=106.90362 | directions=near State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=20,000-25,000₮/night | content=A nice inexpensive hotel in the city center. The hotel staff speaks little English, but rooms are large and include TV. Bathrooms are shared. }} * {{sleep | name=Royal House Hotel | alt=formerly Red Rose Hotel | url=http://www.royalhousehotel.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.915148 | long=106.944512 | directions=on the ring road east of the city center; take Peace Avenue east from Chinggis Square for about 2 km and then turn right | phone=+976 11 46 4088 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=One of UB's leading hotels, with a location among a cluster of major shopping centers and office buildings. 34 rooms of various levels of luxury: deluxe, semi-lux and standard. }} * {{sleep | name=ibis Styles Ulaanbaatar Polaris | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/9808/index.ru.shtml | email=H9808@accor.com | address=81 Chinggis Avenue, Khan-Uul | lat=47.895156 | long=106.883866 | directions= | phone=+976 70100707 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double US$120 | image=Ibis Styles Ulaanbaatar Polaris.jpg | lastedit=2025-01-09 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Bayangol Hotel | alt= | url=http://bayangolhotel.mn | email= | address= | lat=47.91203 | long=106.91365 | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=Bayangol Hotel.jpg | content=Close to the bars and Chinggis Square, but rooms are small and the Internet cuts in and out. }} * {{sleep | name=Blue Sky Hotel and Tower | alt= | url=http://hotelbluesky.mn | email= | address= | lat=47.91674 | long=106.91851 | directions=south side of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 7010 0505 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$200 | wikipedia=Blue Sky Tower | image=Felhőkarcoló a főtéren (Skyscraper on the central square) - panoramio.jpg | wikidata=Q15107804 | content=The tallest building in Mongolia. 200 rooms, plus several nice restaurants and bars including a lounge on the 23rd floor with views of the whole city.. }} * {{sleep | name=Chinggis Khaan Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.chinggis-hotel.com | email=reservation@chinggis-hotel.com | address= | lat=47.922101 | long=106.934609 | directions=four blocks east of Chinggis Square; take Beijing Street east for about 1200 m, then turn right on Tokyo Street | phone=+976 700 000 99 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q11074511 | content=Spacious rooms that can be described as "wannabe luxurious". }} * {{sleep | name=Corporate Hotel | alt=Корпорэйт зочид буудал | url=http://www.corporatehotel.mn/sector/sector-1 | email= | address= | lat=47.91299 | long=106.91355 | directions=on Chinggis Avenue, seven minutes on foot south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Corporate Hotel.jpg | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=Nice luxurious rooms as well as sauna, jacuzzi and free WiFi. }} * {{sleep | name=HS Khaan Resort Hotel | alt= | url=http://hs-khaan-resort.com/ | email= | address=Khui doloon hudag, Argalant soum | lat=47.971077 | long=106.480045 | directions=about 12 km west of central UB via Highway 3 | phone=+976-9908-8102 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A ''ger''-style resort in the countryside outside of town. All rooms have sweeping views over the steppes. }} * {{sleep | name=Kempinski Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.kempinski.com/en/ulaanbaatar/hotel-khan-palace/welcome/ | email=reservations.ulaanbaatar@kempinski.com | address= | lat=47.91982 | long=106.94365 | directions=about 2 km east of Chinggis Square, at northeast corner of Peace Avenue and Ikh Toiruu ring road | phone=+976 11 463 463 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A nice hotel on the east side of the city with several good restaurants, including '''Kara-Khorum''' with an excellent brunch on the weekends: various meats, fruit, omelet and juice bar, plus caviar and champagne. }} * {{sleep | name=Ramada Citycenter | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/ulaanbaatar-mongolia/ramada-ulaanbaatar-citycenter/overview | email= | address= | lat=47.91519 | long=106.89188 | directions=on Peace Avenue about 2 km west of Chinggis Square, a block past Ikh Toiruu ring road | phone=+976 7014 1111 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$200/night | content=One of the only international hotel chains in the city. On the top floor of the '''MaxMall''', near Gandan Monastery. Has all the standard features of a full-service Western hotel, including fitness center, sauna, and office space. }} * {{sleep | name=Shangri-La Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.shangri-la.com/ulaanbaatar/shangrila/ | email= | address= | lat=47.912953 | long=106.920231 | directions=on Olympic Street three blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 7702 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=From US$440/night | image=Shangri-La Ulaanbaatar.jpg | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=Centrally located high-rise property catering to a mix of business travellers and well-heeled tourists, with free WiFi, a fitness club, laundry and shoeshine service, and several onsite restaurants. Rooms are spacious, overlook either Chinggis Square or Nayramdal Park, and their design can be described as a modernized take on traditional Mongolian aesthetic elements. They'll pick you up from the airport upon prior arrangement. }} * {{sleep | name=Ulaanbaatar Hotel | alt= | url=http://ubhotel.mn/ | email=reservations@ubhotel.mn | address= | lat=47.91862 | long=106.92266 | directions=just off the east side of Sukhbaatar Square | phone=+976 11 320 620 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia=Ulaanbaatar Hotel | image=Ulaanbaatar Hotel.jpg | wikidata=Q10877907 | content=The first modern hotel ever built in Mongolia (in 1961) is showing its age. Nice central location, though. }} * {{sleep | name=Mongolica Hotel and Resort | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/mongolica.resort/ | email= | address= | lat=47.860788 | long=106.678861 | directions= | phone=+976 99199152 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ==Connect== On Peace Avenue at the southwest corner of Chinggis Square, Ulaanbaatar's {{marker|type=listing|name=Central Post Office|lat=47.91706|long=106.91578}} not only sells stamps but also a wide variety of reasonably priced postcards (though they may take up to two months to reach their destination!) Also check out their large collections of decorative stamps. '''Mobile phone''' operators around town offer prepaid GSM SIM cards, handset rentals (Mobicom), and extensive roaming options. As well, prepaid cards such as BodiCom are another convenient and relatively inexpensive way to make an international call. '''Internet''' Many restaurants and coffeehouses offer free WiFi. ==Stay safe== ===Crime=== While crime rates in Ulaanbaatar are said to be among the highest of any Asian city, this generally applies less to the city center than the underdeveloped ''ger'' districts on the outskirts of town: poorly lit shantytowns crisscrossed by maze-like dirt alleys and row upon row of fences; not the kind of place most tourists would be interested in to begin with. Nonetheless, it might be a good idea to avoid going out at night alone (though it's usually perfectly fine to do so in groups). This goes double for relatively deserted areas away from major routes, and for rowdy nightlife districts. Although most large buildings have security guards, they're only there to keep drunks and homeless people out, so don't expect much help from them if a crime is committed against you. Unfortunately, xenophobia and violence towards foreigners is common. Alcoholism is a huge social problem and Mongolia has some of the highest rates of liver cancer in the world. Do not acknowledge or approach any Mongolian man under the influence of alcohol. Many foreigners who go to bars and clubs at night report assault and general aggression. While muggings, assaults, and taxi scams all occasionally occur, the main crime for foreigners to be concerned about is '''pickpocketing'''. This is especially a problem at the '''Naran Tuul''' market, at the bus stops close to the '''State Department Store''', and on crowded buses in general. If you've been attacked or pickpocketed, take time to make a deposition at the district police station, and let your country's embassy know. Though unmarked taxis are common and generally nothing to fear, it's probably a good idea to get a local to serve as an interpreter and explain the fare system, and to keep an eye on where the taxi is taking you. Sometimes unmarked taxi drivers will try to take people, especially drunk tourists, down a dark alley and demand their cell phone or cash. ===Hotel scams=== Vacation home hosting is common in UB, foreign investors, locals, and real estate developers list available apartments on the usual booking sites. The frequency of fraud or crime with these listings is probably just as common as in established hotels elsewhere in the world, but there are some additional things to look out for, when an established hotel might seem to otherwise provide safety in numbers. Vacation rentals might be apartments in locations that have been caused to be otherwise unliveable due to nuisance conditions created with the intention of driving tenants or owners out. New construction in some areas is shoddy with thin walls and no privacy, projects are colonized by organized criminals gangs, retail spaces nearby might be venues for organized trafficking in persons. New buildings as elsewhere in Asia, are liable to be financed by organized crime groups from the usual places, largely unoccupied, unsecured and wholly thrown open for arbitrary use within international trafficking rings. Irregular hotels operated by noncitizens may be located in mixed use buildings or apartment complexes with persistent crime presence. In areas with high methamphetamine drug use, it might be difficult even to determine the nature or intent of the criminal actors. ===Road and traffic hazards=== Walking on the streets at any time is a hazardous affair, as there are open manholes, reckless drivers, and (from October to March) ice on the roads to contend with. The automobile culture in UB is too new for safe driving systems and habits to have taken root among the public: if you're crossing the street, even at a designated crosswalk and even if in theory you have the right of way, don't expect anyone (even buses and police) to stop or even slow down for you. You ''will'' get honked and shouted at, however. ===Child beggars=== This is a common sight on the streets of UB that may tug at the heartstrings of well-off Western tourists, but the reality is a bit more complicated than it may appear. Any money you give will often go straight into the pockets of their teenage "pimps", so your donation may not help the kids. It also pays to be on your guard when they operate in groups, as this is often a setup for a pickpocketing operation. Children and the elderly are frequently present in the areas where organized prostitution is taking place. Sex trafficking in Asia invariably involves call centers, and often family members or fellow travelers, taking direction from a handler in related crime activities. The objective is to obtain money, it is not to sell sex. ===General=== In winter, be mindful of the cold at all times. Even being outside for a couple of minutes in -35 can cause problems very, very quickly. In bars, many people may want to approach you and talk to you out of interest. This is usually well-meaning, though it can be annoying. As a general rule, the more drunk a person will be, the more annoying they will be too. If you are open to conversation, then go ahead. Mongolians are interesting and interested, and it can lead to great connections, memories and stories. However, remember to be wary. Some Mongolian men do not take too kindly to foreign men speaking to Mongolian women (especially young women). Be wary of this, especially in busy bars, and where copious amounts of alcohol is involved. ==Cope== ===Newspapers=== The weekly '''''[https://www.ubpost.mn/ UB Post]''''' is the principal English-language source for cultural, economic, and political goings-on in Mongolia. ===Embassies=== * {{flag|Australia}}{{listing | name=Australia | alt= | url=https://mongolia.embassy.gov.au/ | email= | address=Level 20, Shangri-La Centre, 19A Olympic Street, Sukhbaatar District-1 | lat= | long= | directions=Shangri-La Centre | phone=+976 7013 3001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata= |lastedit=2023-03-25| content= }} * {{flag|Canada}} {{listing | name=Canada | alt= | url= | email= | address=Central Tower, 6th floor | lat= | long= | directions=southeast corner of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 332500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33245649 | content= }} * {{flag|China}} {{listing | type=listing | name=China | alt= | url=http://mn.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/ | email=chinaemb_mn@mfa.gov.cn | address=Zaluuchuudyn Urgun Chuluu 5 | post = C.P.O.BOX672 | lat= | long= | directions=just northeast of the Government House | phone=+976 11 320955, +976 11 323940, +976 11 311903 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11 311943 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309063 | content=It is possible for most foreigners to get a Chinese visa here. During busy periods, the office may refuse entry after 11:00. Also, on major Chinese holidays, the Consular Section may be closed for several days. }} * {{flag|Cuba}} {{listing | name=Cuba | alt= | url= | email= | address=United Nations Street 18, Sükhbaatar district | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 323778 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309069 | content= }} * {{flag|Czech Republic}} {{listing | name=Czech Republic | alt= | url=http://www.mzv.cz/ulaanbaatar | email=ulaanbaatar@embassy.mzv.cz | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11321886, +976 99111880 (emergencies), +976 9909 8708 (emergencies) | tollfree= | fax=+976 11323791 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309276 | content= }} * {{flag|France}} {{listing | name=France | alt= | url=http://www.ambafrance-mn.org/ | email= | address=Peace Avenue 12, Sükhbaatar district | lat=47.917176 | long=106.913517 | directions=west of Chinggis Square, past the Central Post Office | phone=+976 11 324519 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2841766 | content= }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany | alt= | url= | email= | address=United Nations Street 18, Baga Toiruu 2, Sükhbaatar district | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 329522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309283 | content= }} * {{flag|India}} {{listing | name=India | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaluuchuud Avenue 10, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=just east of the Chinese embassy | phone=+976 11 329522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309392 | content= }} * {{flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Olympic Street 8, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 320777, +976 11 313332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309400 | content= }} * {{flag|Kazakhstan}} {{listing | name=Kazakhstan | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th khoroo, Zaisan Street 78, Khan-Uul District | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 345408 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309414 | content= }} * {{flag|Kuwait}} {{listing | name=Kuwait | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bella Vista Town, Zaisan Bella, 11th khoroo, Khan-Uul District | lat= | long= | directions=south of the city center, near the bridge to Zaisan Memorial | phone=+976 7744444 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309421 | content= }} * {{flag|Laos}} {{listing | name=Laos | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th khoroo, Ikh Toiruu Road 59, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=massive complex on the south side of Peace Avenue, East of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 326440 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309436 | content= }} * {{flag|North Korea}} {{listing | name=North Korea | alt= | url= | email= | address=Diplomatic Complex 95, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=behind the Embassy Restaurant near the Tengis Theater | phone=+976 11 310432 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309445 | content= }} * {{flag|Russia}} {{listing | name=Russia | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th Khoroo, Ikh Toiruu Road 59, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=massive complex on the south side of Peace Avenue, east of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 326440, +976 11 322834 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Russian embassy in Ulan Bator 2.JPG | wikidata=Q16687397 | content= }} * {{flag|South Korea}} {{listing | name=South Korea | alt= | url=http://overseas.mofa.go.kr/mn-ko/index.do | email= | address=Olympic Street 10, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=two blocks South of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 70071030, +976 11 70071020 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-18:00 | price= | wikidata=Q33309454 | lastedit=2017-07-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Turkey}} {{listing | name=Turkey | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue 5, Chingeltei District | lat= | long= | directions=west of the post office, next to the French Embassy | phone=+976 11 311200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309468 | content= }} * {{flag|United Kingdom}} {{listing | name=United Kingdom | alt= | url=https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-ulaanbaatar | email=Consular.Mongolia@fco.gov.uk | address=Unit 1-3A, Level 19 Shangri-La Offices, Olympic Street 19A, Sukhbaatar District-1 | lat=47.9128275 | long=106.9215149 | directions=north-east corner of the National Amusement Park | phone=+976 11 458133 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu Th 14:00-16:00 | price= | wikidata=Q33309476 | content= }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | alt= | url=https://mn.usembassy.gov/ | email=cons@usembassy.mn | address= | lat= | long= | directions=north of Chinggis Khaan Hotel | phone=+976 7007-6001 | tollfree= | fax=+976 7007-6174 | hours=M-F 08:30-12:30 and 13:00-17:00 | price= | wikipedia=Embassy of the United States, Ulaanbaatar | image=US Embassy in Mongolia.jpg | wikidata=Q25044768 | content= }} * {{flag|Vietnam}} {{listing | name=Vietnam | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue 47, Bayanzurkh District | lat=47.9185 | long=106.9343 | directions=just West of the Wrestling Palace | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Vietnamese embassy in Ulaanbaatar.JPG | wikidata=Q33309489 | content= }} ==Go next== Except for those just passing through on the [[Trans-Siberian Railway|Trans-Mongolian Railroad]] or transiting through Ulaanbaatar Airport, most people come to Mongolia to witness the beauty of the endless steppes and deserts of Central Asia, populated by the nomadic descendants of Genghis Khan. Ulaanbaatar is an excellent homebase to explore Mongolia with its many museums, monasteries, and cultural experiences, but don't confine yourself to UB: you can't really get to know this place without going to the countryside for at least a few days. *[[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]] — scenic, forested mountain valleys a mere three-hour bus ride from UB *[[Bogd Khan National Park]] — the world's largest equestrian statue of Genghis Khan and the ruins of a large Buddhist monastery destroyed by the communists in 1937 are the showpieces of this massive mountain park South of town *[[Karakorum]] — the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in the beautiful Orkhon River valley, a day's bus ride to the west *The [[Gobi|Gobi Desert]] — nomadic camel herders and dinosaur fossils *[[Western Mongolia]] — where the old Kazakh tradition of eagle-hunting lives on in the snow-capped Altai Mountains {{routebox| | image1=Trans-Siberian Railway icon.png | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Irkutsk]] | minorl1=[[Darkhan]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Beijing]] | minorr1=[[Sainshand]] | link1=Trans-Siberian Railway }} {{IsPartOf|Central Mongolia}} {{guidecity}} {{geo|47.92|106.92}} jk287r02mp35s1dhskxuudbmg49mkol 5090949 5090948 2025-07-10T16:31:16Z Chongkian 70395 /* Mid-range */ Updated listing for Chinggis Club - there is no a place called Chinggis Square 5090949 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Ulanbataar panorama banner.jpg|dotm=yes}} '''Ulaanbaatar''' ''(Улаанбаатар)'' — also '''Ulan Bator''', '''UB''', or in the local language, '''Khot''' ("the city") — is the capital and the largest city of [[Mongolia]]. With more than 1.6 million residents as of 2023, Ulaanbaatar is home to roughly half of Mongolia's population and serves as the starting point for pretty much all travel around Mongolia. Founded and established by warlords of the Mongol Empire in the 16th century, Ulaanbaatar is roughly 1,300-1,400 meters above sea level and is situated on a valley in the Tuul River. Ulaanbaatar is a modern and clean city populated with beautiful landmarks such as the Green Palace, universities such as the National University of Mongolia, fancy skyscrapers, hotels, monasteries, museums, and malls showcasing local and international brands. A number of national parks and protected areas (the [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]] being the most popular one) belong to the city. Due to its high elevation and distance from any major body of water, Ulaanbaatar has the onerous distinction of being the world's coldest capital city. Ulaanbaatar winters are notorious for being harsh, dry, and bitterly cold; winter temperatures range from -20° to -50° Celsius. ==Understand== [[image:UB downtown.jpg|thumb|400px|Downtown Ulaanbaatar in 2015]] Ulaanbaatar has many different and distinct layers. Long gone are the days when this city was just a typical, drab Soviet-bloc town in the middle of nowhere. One can witness the traditional, the Soviet, and the super-modern, all within a 5 minute walk through the city. Ulaanbaatar lies in the ''Altan Tevshiin Kundii'' (Valley of the Golden Cradle). Here the rivers Selbe and Tuul meet at the foot of the imposing Bogd Uul Mountain. In the forested and watered zone of northern Mongolia, it resides near the 2,000-year-old royal tombs of the Xiongnu, the 8th-century Turkic inscription of General Tonyukuk, and the birthplace of Genghis Khan. From the 20,000-year-old Paleolithic settlement on the Zaisan monument to the 12th century palace of the Nestorian Christian monarch Toghrul, there is a lot to learn and discover about this deep first layer of Ulaanbaatar. The second layer is the ''Urga'' or ''Örgöö'' of 1639-1778 — what would become Ulaanbaatar was established as a nomadic monastic center for the spiritual leader Zanabazar in 1639 — 230 kilometres (143 miles) southwest of today's Ulaanbaatar. The monastic center moved repeatedly and eventually settled at its present location in 1778, along a trading route between Russia and China. This mobile monastery era survives today as cultural forms (Genghisid memory, Mongolian temple architecture, wooden-fenced ger districts, Mongolian script, and Buddhism, traditional clothing, festivals, wrestling, music), and as physical artifacts kept in museums (Zanabazar masterpieces). The third layer is the late Qing dynasty Urga of 1778-1924 which can be found in surviving buildings such as the Gandan monastery. The fourth layer is the socialist period of 1924-1990 which saw the destruction of temples, the confiscation of private property, and Stalinist purges, but also the emergence of Mongolia as a modern, independent nation with Ulaanbaatar as its showcase. It was in this period that the city was named ''Ulaanbaatar khot'', literally "''Red Hero City''". The fifth layer, corresponding to the decade of the 1990s, was a stagnant period marked by poverty and bread lines which left a poor impression on the few visitors who passed through the city after its opening from communism. The newest sixth layer is the Ulaanbaatar of 2000 to the present, which saw the city over double in size to its current 1.6 million. However, while the center now has glittery skyscrapers, fashion boutiques and epic traffic jams, many poor migrants huddle in ''ger'' (yurt) districts on the outskirts of the city without basic amenities like running water and sewage. The residents of the ''ger'' districts have effectively become refugees in their own country, as the government has attempted to clamp down on rural-to-urban migration by not allowing new arrivals to register in the city, thus depriving them of the ability to access healthcare, employment and education in some instances. [[File:The private sector with yurts against the backdrop of high-rise new buildings in Ulaanbaatar.jpg|thumb|300x300px|A ''ger'' neighborhood next to a high-rise neighborhood, on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar.]] ===Orientation=== Peace Avenue (''Enkh Taivny Örgön Chölöö'') is the main street, stretching from east to west through the center with shopping and restaurants all along it. This street dates back to old Urga when it was called the ''Chölöö'' (Broad Avenue). The Chinese financed its paving in the 1950s. The street passes by the southern edge of the central square, '''Sükhbaatar Square''', which has roots in the central square of old Urga. The tourist information office is in the south flank of the town hall in the western corner of Chinggis Square. The city center is defined by the ''Ikh Toiruu'' (Great Ring Road) which has its origin in the prayer route of pilgrims circling the central temple-palace complex of Urga. Peace Avenue crosses the middle of the ring road horizontally while the southern part of the ring road is the Narnii Zam road ("Road of the Sun" built with Japanese support). South of the Narni Zam road is the affluent southern part of Ulaanbaatar with luxury apartments lining the Tuul River. Ger districts line the northern part of the city center and stretch 7 km north to the '''Dambadarjaalin Monastery''' built in 1765. North of Dambadarjaalin Monastery starts the ''Zuslan'' or summer vacation area, where charming summer houses stretch 14 km to Khandgait. Many families in Ulaanbaatar have a ''zuslan'' building (similar to Russian ''dachas'') where they spend the summer among the forests and natural scenery of the Selbe river valley. Some herding families graze their horses and cows freely in this area. The scenery gets more dramatic going east towards the Terelj area with big rock formations and wildflower valleys. Tours go past Terelj to the 1740 '''Gunjiin Sum Princess Temple''' and the '''Khagiin Khar''' lake. The southern edge of Ulaanbaatar is marked by its boundary with the town of Zuunmod on the south side of the Bogd Uul mountain. The 1778 shrine of '''Tsetsee Gun''' on the peak and the 1747 ruins of the '''Manjusri Monastery''' are on top of the mountain. South of the mountain starts an endless sea of grassland steppe gradually merging into the [[Gobi]] Desert 300 km south of UB. Day trips to the east include the '''Tsonjin Boldog Genghis Khan Statue'''. Day trips to the west include the '''Hustai Nuruu National Park''', '''Aglag Meditation Center''' and '''Ögii Lake'''. ===History=== At the time when Ulaanbaatar was founded as Urga in 1639 by Genghisid nobles, Mongolia was actually a serious contender for power in East Asia. The last Great Khan, Ligdan, had died in 1634, and the Manchu were rising in the east — but the independent Mongols had been revitalized by a Buddhist renaissance in the 1570s, and raids under Altan Khan were carried out as far afield as [[Beijing]]. A firmer union of the Western Oirats and Eastern Genghisids would have sufficed to fend off the Manchus. The 1640 Mongol-Oirat Code of Law united the East and West, but this union failed to last long. What did survive from this period was the union of the Eastern Mongols cemented in 1639 with the founding of Urga. The Mongol nobles installed one of their own, Zanabazar, the son of Tüsheet Khan Gombodorj (1594-1655) and a direct descendant of Genghis Khan, as the supreme lama of the Mongols. His residence, called '''Örgöö''' or Urga, meaning "palace-yurt", was some 250 km west of the current site of the city, near the ancient Mongol capital of [[Karakorum]]. In 1651, the first Jebtsundamba Khutughtu, Zanabazar, returned from studies in [[Tibet]] and established seven monastic departments in Urga. The mobile monastery gradually became a mobile city, moving every few years as needed. Urga was moved 25 times between its founding in 1639 and settling in its current location in 1778, by which time it had several thousand tents and temples and was served by trade routes from [[China]] and [[Russia]]. It was also estimated to have about 10,000 monks. The Gandan Monastery was established in 1809 and became the center of learning for all of Mongolia, and one of the most important monasteries in Tibetan Buddhism.[[image:Jugder 001.jpg|thumb|400px|Ulaanbaatar (Urga) in 1913]]The city continued to grow through the 19th century as a provincial capital of the Qing Empire and a center of religion and trade. Russian influence in Mongolia became significant in the late 18th century, and a two-story Russian consulate was opened in 1865 as an upgrade from the 18th century wooden quarters of the Russian representative. Mongolia was, in practice, a buffer between Russia and China, with plenty of local autonomy through the Bogd Jebtsundamba and Mongolian nobles. In 1911, the 8th Bogd Khan declared independence from China, leading to a long unstable period in the city's history including an occupation by a Chinese warlord in 1919. However, the Chinese were expelled by the [[Belarus|White Russian]] Roman von Ungern-Sternberg, aka the "Mad Baron", in 1921. This forced the Soviet Union to intervene and set up a puppet state in what was then known as Outer Mongolia. The country was nominally independent but essentially a satellite state of the USSR. In 1924, the city's name changed from Urga to Ulaanbaatar ("Red Hero"). Many of the monasteries and temples were destroyed in the religious purges of the 1930s. Following the end of the Second World War, the old ''ger'' districts were largely cleared for Soviet-style city apartments, offices, and factories. The [[Trans-Siberian Railway|Trans-Mongolian Railway]] was completed in 1956, connecting Ulaanbaatar to Beijing and [[Moscow]]. Gandan Monastery was reopened during a visit by US Vice President Henry Wallace in 1944, when he asked to see a monastery. Since the democratic revolution in 1990, the population of the city has almost tripled from 540,600 (1989) to 1.6 million (2020) - with thousands moving in from the countryside. The commercial and residential real estate sectors have boomed since 2000, though large factories have closed and much of the city still lives in the slum-like ''ger'' districts. ===Climate=== {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = -15.5 | febhigh = -9.4 | marhigh = -.2 | aprhigh = 10.4 | mayhigh = 17.8 | junhigh = 23.1 | julhigh = 25.2 | aughigh = 23.0 | sephigh = 17.2 | octhigh = 7.7 | novhigh = -4.8 | dechigh = -13.7 | janlow = -25.6 | feblow = -21.7 | marlow = -12.6 | aprlow = -3.3 | maylow = 3.5 | junlow = 10.3 | jullow = 13.5 | auglow = 11.1 | seplow = 4.1 | octlow = -4.5 | novlow = -15.1 | declow = -22.9 | janprecip = 2.1 | febprecip = 2.8 | marprecip = 4.6 | aprprecip = 8.4 | mayprecip = 21.7 | junprecip = 47.2 | julprecip = 74.5 | augprecip = 65.4 | sepprecip = 27.9 | octprecip = 8.6 | novprecip = 6.3 | decprecip = 3.5 | description = NOAA (1991-2020) }} Although summer daytime temperatures are mild and average around {{c|24}} and nights around {{C|13}}, the city shivers in sub-zero temperatures for five months of the year. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures hovering between {{c|-15}} to {{c|-30}} at night. As a result of these prolonged periods of intense cold, the city has an average annual temperature of {{c|.2}}, giving it the dubious distinction of being the world's coldest capital. The cold is dry, however, and there is not much wind chill due to temperature inversion. Heat island effect also means the city center is warmer than the outskirts. Summer can be very hot at times, with several days above {{c|31}} and warmer nights above {{c|17}}, so one should avoid heat stress and use sunscreen when necessary. The sun is up from 05:00 to 20:45 in June, and from 08:30 to 17:00 in the winter. If you have breathing problems, be aware that Ulaanbaatar has high levels of air pollution during the winter. However, away from the city, the countryside air is gorgeous. In winter, air pollution starts at 19:00, when ''ger'' district residents start burning coal for heat, and lasts till about 10:00 the next morning. It is severe in northern parts of the city close to the ''ger'' districts, but gets sparse going south from Chinggis Square and is almost absent near Zaisan, at the southern edge of the city where there are no ''ger'' districts. The air pollution lifts in early March and the city remains pollution-free (excluding car exhaust) until November. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Chinggis Khaan International Airport | alt={{IATA|UBN}}, Чингис хаан олон улсын нисэх буудал, New Ulaanbaatar International Airport | url=https://en.ulaanbaatar-airport.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.651581 | long=106.821772 | directions=52 km south of Ulaanbaatar | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chinggis Khaan International Airport | image=Chinggis Khan International Airport.jpg | wikidata=Q837745 | content=Opened in 2021, this Japanese-built airport has now taken over all domestic and international flights, replacing the old Buyant-Ukhaa Airport which also formerly known as Chinggis Khaan International Airport. }} '''[https://en.ulaanbaatar-airport.mn/bus-route Getting to the airport]''' takes about 50-100 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport buses run from 6:20 AM to midnight, but taxis and the new Ulaanbaatar Airport shuttle are more reliable. Taxis cost a steep 85,000-120,000 ₮ depending on your destination, be sure to agree on the price in advance. There are also shared taxis for 30,000MNT. The Ulaanbaatar Airport Shuttle costs 20,000 MNT - 30,000 MNT depending on the size of the shuttle. Many of the higher-end hotels will offer a shuttle service to/from the airport for a nominal fee. ===By train=== [[File:Ulaanbaatar Railway Station.jpg|thumb|Ulaanbaatar Train Station]] Direct (if long) journeys are possible from destinations between Moscow and Beijing on the Trans-Mongolian line of the [[Trans-Siberian Railway]]. Ulaanbaatar-bound trains leave Beijing once a week, on Wednesday, and seats can only be reserved at the International Hotel in Beijing, a ten-minute walk north of the main rail station. The journey takes about 30 hours. Packing a face mask is a good idea as sandstorms in the Gobi desert may cause difficulty in breathing. Shorter-haul trains also run to the Chinese border towns of [[Erlian]] and [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)|Jining]] 3-4 times a week. Ulaanbaatar's {{marker|type=go|name=train station|lat=47.90865|long=106.88395}} is on Narni Zam road, about 3 km west of the city centre. The cheapest option is the daily 18:05 departure to Zamyn Uud on the Mongolian side of the Chinese border. You can buy a connecting bus ticket from Zamyn Uud to Erlian on the Chinese side for 10000₮ in the railway office in Ulaanbaatar. After COVID-19 related suspending for 3 years, train service between China and Mongolia was restored, but only between Ulaanbaatar and [[Erenhot]]. In Moscow, trains to Ulaanbaatar depart Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays (the latter two are express runs), for a journey that lasts 100 hours or a little over 4 days. There's also a daily train to/from [[Irkutsk]], which can also be reached from [[Vladivostok]] at the eastern end of the Trans-Siberian. ===By car=== What few paved roads exist in Mongolia generally go to and from Ulaanbaatar. Thus, getting to UB from elsewhere in Mongolia on a ''paved'' road is very easy, because all you have to do is just follow the pavement. However, if you're driving one of the dirt tracks that characterize the majority of the country's road network, it pays to have a map, and if [[Offroad driving|off-roading]] is part of your itinerary, it pays to have a local guide/driver. Coming from the '''north''', the paved road starts at the Russian border at [[Sühbaatar]]. Coming from the '''south''', the paved road starts at the Chinese border at [[Zamyn-Üüd]], passing through the vast Gobi Desert along the way. Coming from the '''northeast''', the paved road starts at [[Bulgan]]. Finally, from the '''west''', the road starts in either [[Bayanhongor]] in the southwest or [[Tsetserleg]] further north. ===By bus=== [[File:New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal.jpg|thumb|New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Bus Terminal]] Once in the country, it should not be difficult to find a bus going to UB, at least from larger towns. However, bus stops are difficult to locate, with buses usually just stopping in populated areas. Furthermore, Mongolian buses are notorious for being late — in some cases by a day or more. Buses from Russia, the west, north and south usually go to Dragon Center, while those from China and the east go to Bayanzurkh bus station, just east of the Officer Monument at the east end of Peace Avenue. * {{go | name=New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal | alt=драгон | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91053 | long=106.8205 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal.jpg | content=The primary bus station for all buses going to the [[Western Mongolia|west]], [[Northern Mongolia|north]], and the Gobi. }} * {{listing | name=Botanical Gardens | alt=ботаник | type=go | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91272 | long=106.99319 | directions=1 km east of the eastern traffic circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The gardens have been completely destroyed, but the location is well known to the locals. Serves inter-city buses to [[Eastern Mongolia]]. }} * {{listing | name=Tenger Plaza | alt= | type=go | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=east of the city center, southeast of Mongolia International University and MIU bus stop | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Buses depart to various national destinations. Buses to [[Zamyn-Üüd]], the main border crossing to China, depart at 07:00 and 21:00, arriving there about 10 hours later, with some buses continuing across the border to Erlian. }} From Russia, there are also UB-bound buses from [[Ulan Ude]], leaving at 07:30 from the '''old bus station''' ''(Старый Автовокзал)'' via the Altanbulag border crossing. The trip usually takes about 12 hours, including customs processing — much faster than the train — and tickets cost {{RUB|1800}} one-way. Night buses leave on Fridays and Sundays at 19:00. Buses arrive and depart from the Dragon Bus station. Any travel agency should be able to book tickets or you can buy them at either bus station. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|47.91729|106.90815|zoom=11|width=700|height=430|layer=MP}} Street names are rarely known by Mongolians, and they usually only appear on maps and official addresses. Official addresses list the district, microdistrict (usually a large block bounded by major streets), and the building number. However, since blocks can have dozens of buildings, with more continuously being squeezed in between existing ones, addresses are not very helpful for navigation. Instead, it's best to have directions for major landmarks using lots of descriptions (i.e. "turn right at the first traffic signal west of the State Department Store"). Some major streets to know are '''Peace Avenue''', UB's main road which runs west-to-east in front of Chinggis Square; '''Chinggis Avenue''', running north-to-south on the east side of the square, then veering west toward the airport in front of Bogd Khan Winter Palace; and '''Seoul Street''', which runs west from Chinggis Avenue just south of Chinggis Square. ===By taxi=== If you stand in the street and hold out your arm, usually within seconds somebody will have stopped to pick you up. This system can be quick and reliable, especially during the cold winter, but it can cause problems as many drivers will only speak Mongolian. Taxis are cheap: the going rate is around 1000₮ per kilometer, but if you're a foreigner, they'll overcharge you and there's really no way to get around it completely. (In extreme circumstances, opportunistic younger drivers have been known to try to hold passengers or their luggage at ransom until they pay extraordinary amounts of money!) A good tip is to carry a small written note with an amount in ''tögrög'' (500₮, 1000₮, 1500₮, etc.) and show them exactly what you are willing to pay before you get on. If the driver does not seem aggressive, you can get yourself out of this situation by knowing a few local words - particularly yes, no, and any numbers. Remember, even if you pay 4000 ''tögrög'' for a journey, though this is a higher fare than a local would pay, it is still only just over $1. So use your judgement. The current price of gasoline is $5/gallon, 3710₮/litre, so you can judge whether some of these prices are realistic given market conditions. UB also now has a fleet of new white cabs with large LCD-screen fare meters on the dash. Always negotiate the fare in advance, don't be fooled by tricks like "I meant 3000₮ for each of you", and avoid random cars that offer taxi service. * {{listing | name=Help Taxi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 99652371 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=1000₮/km, minimum 4000₮, airport to city center 30,000₮ | content=Fluent English-speaking dispatch, all drivers have at least limited proficiency in English. Main taxi service for all the embassies. }} * {{listing | name=iTaxi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 77171717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=1000₮/km, airport to city center 20,000₮ | content=English-speaking dispatch, metered taxi rides, texts you when the taxi arrives to pick you up. }} * Download '''UBCab''' to order taxis quickly to your location. You do not enter the destination into the app, but simply order the cab and then instruct the driver where to go once you get in. ===By bus=== [[File:Sükhbaatar Square Parking Lot.jpg|thumb|Public bus in Ulaanbaatar]] Buses in UB come in several different varieties. At the top of the scale, regularly scheduled municipal buses operate on a widespread network that extends right to the outskirts of town, for a flat rate of 500₮. As well, there's an almost equally extensive network of '''microbuses''' charging from 300-500₮, distinguished by a person hanging out the window at each stop and shouting the name of the destination in rapid-fire Mongolian. Finally, there is also a cheaper (300₮) but slower and less extensive network of electric trolleybuses. To use the municipal and trolleybuses you need a U card, which can be purchased at many kiosks and shops for 3000₮. You load credit and touch it to the reader when entering the bus. If you touch it on the reader when getting off you can get a second ride for free if you board within 30 minutes. As in any city, be wary of pickpockets on the buses, especially when the buses are crowded. ===By foot=== Within the quite compact city center, walking is a viable option. Ulaanbaatar stretches from east to west along the aforementioned Peace Avenue, making navigating the center a cinch. Outside the center, in the ''ger'' districts, it's a different story entirely: a good city map, available at the airport or the '''Mongolian Government Map Shop''', is a must if you plan to go off the beaten path. You'll find the map shop directly on the Ikh Toiruu ring road: head west three blocks from the State Department Store, then turn right (north) at the first traffic light and proceed for about half a block. The Map Shop is behind the blue and yellow '''Elba Appliance''' store. ==See== Most tourist sites have a separate camera/video fee (typically 5000-10,000₮) in addition to the entrance fee. ===Monasteries=== [[File:Gandantegchinlen Monastery (2024).jpg|thumb|Gandantegchinlen Monastery]] [[File:Green Palace Bogd Khan 149185394 bfcc8db25b b.jpg|thumb|Bogd Khan Winter Palace]] * {{see | name=Choijin Lama Monastery | alt=Чойжин ламын сүм | url=http://www.templemuseum.mn/welcome | email=info@templemuseum.mn | address= | lat=47.91475 | long=106.91843 | directions=one block east of the National Library | phone=+976 11 32478 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-19:30 in summer, closed on Sundays and Mondays during winter | price=8000₮, students 3000₮, children 1500₮, photography fee 50,000₮ | wikipedia=Choijin Lama Temple | image=Choijin Lama Ulan Bator 149198611 958f1f4abd o.jpg | wikidata=Q2093410 | content=These five temples and five arched gates are a unique showcase of religious art and the history of Buddhism in Mongolia, a gem of 20th century Mongolian cultural heritage, and a fine example of Buddhist architecture. Choijin Lama Monastery was active until 1938, was inscribed in 1941 on the list of historical and cultural monuments, and became a museum the following year. In the main temple you'll find the sculpture of the Choijin Lama and the embalmed mummy of his teacher, as well as the great coral mask of Begtse, created under the direction of protectors using over 6,000 pieces of coral. Elsewhere in the complex, '''Yadam Temple''' and '''Amgalan Temple''' contain rare artifacts made by the famous Mongolian artist and sculptor, Zanabazar. }} * {{see | name=Gandantegchinlen Monastery | alt=Gandantegchinlen Khiid or Gandan Monastery | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92248 | long=106.89534 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=4000₮ | wikipedia=Gandantegchinlen Monastery | image=Gandantegchinlen Monastery (2024).jpg | wikidata=Q965633 | content=The main monastery in the city has services around 10:00 every morning. It is one of the few monasteries in the country that were spared during the Communist purges of the 1930s. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Bogd Khan Winter Palace Museum | alt=Богд хааны ордон музей | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.89666 | long=106.90783 | directions=about {{km|2.5}} south of Chinggis Square, on Chinggis Avenue in Khan Uul district | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00-17:00 | price=Admission 8000₮, 50,000₮ photography fee | wikipedia=Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan | image=Green Palace Bogd Khan 149185394 bfcc8db25b b.jpg | wikidata=Q1579833 | content=Built between 1893 and 1903 by Mongolian masters, this palace was dedicated to the VIII Bogd Gegeen, head of Tibetan Buddhism and Khan of Mongolia from 1911 until 1924 (the last three years of which were as a constitutional monarch). Upon his death, the palace became the first national historical museum of Mongolia. The museum contains twelve collections showcasing valuable objects and works of art from the 17th to early 20th centuries (notable among which are gilded bronze sculptures by the first Bogd Javzundamba Zanabazar and his school, 19th- and 20th century ''thangka'' paintings, a ''Jugder'' painting of Ulaanbaatar in 1912, and works by modern Mongolian painter B. Sharav), as well as personal possessions of the Khan and his wife, Queen Dondogdulam.. }} * {{see | name=Chinggis Khaan National Museum | alt=Чингис хаан Үндэсний музей | url=https://chinggismuseum.com/en | email=info@chinggismuseum.org | address=J. Sambuu's street, 4th khoroo, Chingeltei District | lat=47.922528 | long=106.914917 | directions=a short distance north of the parliament building | phone=+976 70212222 | tollfree= | hours=09:00-17:00, closed on Mondays during the winter period (1 October to 15 May) | price=Adult 30000₮, families 20000₮, students 15000₮, children 0₮, photo shooting 20000₮ | wikidata=Q120021719 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=International Intellectual Museum | alt=IQ Museum | url=http://www.iqmuseum.mn | email=mitgel@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91746 | long=106.94172 | directions=on Peace Avenue in Bayanzürkh district, in front of East Center | phone=+976 11 461470 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-18:00 | price=Admission for non Mongolians 15.000₮, children 500₮ | wikipedia=International Intellectual Museum | image=International Intellectual Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q10926251 | lastedit=2024-12-05 | content=This museum not only displays but also manufactures and exports a wide variety of traditional Mongolian puzzle toys, logic games, handcrafted products, and souvenirs, and has launched over 80 international exhibitions and fairs in 50 countries. }} * {{see | name=Natural History Museum | alt=Байгалийн түүхийн музей | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.9233 | long=106.9059 | directions=Freedom Square, next to Tengis Cinema and directly behind State Department Store; at the site of the former Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs | phone=+976 7000 0171 | tollfree= | hours=Tu–Su 10:00-18:00 (closed Monday) | price=Admission 2000₮ | wikipedia=Mongolian Natural History Museum | image=Natural History Museum (Ulaanbaatar).jpg | wikidata=Q2154359 | content=The complete fossil of the ''Tarbosaurus bataar'' — a close cousin of the larger T. Rex that serves as the centerpiece of this museum's impressive collection — was stolen from Mongolia by American archaeologist Eric Prokopi and auctioned in [[New York City|New York]] for $1 million. The ensuing news coverage set off an international criminal case resulting in Prokopi's arrest and the return of dozens of dinosaur fossils to Mongolia by the U.S. government, which make up the bulk of this museum's collection. In the former '''Lenin Museum''' on Freedom Square, the museum contains a couple dozen other complete dinosaur fossils besides the ''Tarbosaurus'', all of which were found in the Gobi Desert. }} * {{see | name=National Museum of Mongolia | alt=Монголын Үндэсний музей | url=http://nationalmuseum.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.92036 | long=106.91538 | directions=just west of the Government House | phone=+976 70110911, +976 70110913 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 08:00-22:00, last entry 20:30 | price=Admission 5000₮, photography fee 5000₮ | wikipedia=National Museum of Mongolia | image=National Museum of Mongolia (2023).jpg | wikidata=Q2154176 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=This is the main museum in the capital and should be a first stop on any visit to the city, as it holds the most important artifacts of Mongolia's rich history dating back several thousand years. These include ethnographic displays of various Mongolian tribes, petroglyphs and cave drawings, Turkic monuments, weapons, armor, and various displays from the various eras of Mongolian history: the Hun and Mongol Empires, Chinese rule, the Communist era, and the democratic revolution of 1990. There are displays of self-portraits and personal possessions of Genghis Khan and other great khans of the Mongol Empire. Most displays are in English and Mongolian... }} * {{see | name=Marshall Zhukov House Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.917972 | long=106.953 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19615122 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ulaanbaatar City Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.91806 | long=106.93583 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ulaanbaatar City Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q2368924 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=A museum established from a building built by a Soviet merchant. It used to house the embassy of the Tuvan People's Republic and a printing house. }} ===Art museums and galleries=== [[File:Akshobhya by Zanabazar.jpg|thumb|Akshobhya by Zanabazar, in the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts]] * {{see | name=National Art Gallery of Mongolia | alt= | url=http://www.art-gallery.mn/mn | email=info@art-gallery.mn | address= | lat=47.91961 | long=106.92109 | directions=at the Central Cultural Palace on Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 327177 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-18:00 | price=Admission 2000₮, students 1000₮, children 500₮ | wikipedia=National Art Gallery of Mongolia | image=National Art Gallery of Mongolia.jpg | wikidata=Q17034485 | content=A surprisingly good modern art museum that displays the vibrancy of the local art scene. There are temporary exhibits throughout the year as well as a permanent collection. }} * {{see | name=The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum | alt=Занабазарын нэрэмжит Дүрслэх урлагийн музей | url=http://www.zanabazarmuseum.mn/ | email=info@zanabazarfam.mn | address= | lat=47.92013 | long=106.90911 | directions=two blocks west of the Government House, on Barilgachdin Square | phone=+976 11 326060 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-17:00 (summer), 10:00-17:00 (winter) | price=Admission 5000₮ | image=The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q2370206 | content=The collection includes items from the Stone Age to the 20th century. Particularly interesting is the collection of Buddhist art from the 17th century and later.. }} * {{see | name=Mongolian Art Center for Children's Creativity | alt=Монголын хүүхдийн урлан бүтээх төв | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.926788 | long=106.916114 | directions=Ankara Street | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mongol Art Gallery | alt=Монгол Арт Галерейн | url= | email= | address=Dunjingarav Street | lat=47.904528 | long=106.948806 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q123347067 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Russian Science and Culture Center | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tokyo Street | lat=47.92625 | long=106.935278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Russian Science and Culture Center.jpg | wikidata=Q130382522 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Art House Center | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/arthouse.mongolia/ | email=arthousemn@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.920312 | long=106.907411 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-15 | content= }} ===Monuments and memorials=== [[File:Monumento ruso en Ulan Bator, Mongolia.jpg|thumb|Zaisan War Memorial]] * {{see | name=Sükhbaatar Square | alt=Сүхбаатарын талбай | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91898 | long=106.91777 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chinggis Square | image=Panorama Ulan Bator 13.JPG | wikidata=Q1348864 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=The big open space in the center of the city with an equestrian '''statue of Damdin Sükhbaatar''', warrior-hero of the 1921 People's Revolution, as well as a seated statue of Genghis Khan that sits at the door of the '''Government House'''. Inside the Government House is a small museum with artifacts from the Mongol Empire and a reproduction of Genghis Khan's White Peace Banners of State (the Soviets had the originals destroyed in the 1930s)... }} * {{see | name=Zaisan Memorial | alt=Зайсан толгой | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.885 | long=106.91564 | directions=about 3½ km directly south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Zaisan Memorial | image=World War II in Ulaanbaatar (6228546502).jpg | wikidata=Q144444 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=A huge Communist-era monument on a hill near the city depicting the Russian and Mongolian heroes who fought together during the First and Second World Wars. Nowadays it is a popular viewpoint where you can see over the whole city. There's also a huge Buddhist statue at the bottom. }} * {{see | name=Friendship Railways Height | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.909418 | long=106.883918 | directions=Right across the road in front of Ulaanbaatar Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Friendship Railways Height.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} Despite news about the removal of Lenin's statue, Ulaanbaatar still boasts a wealth of other interesting statues and public art beyond what's mentioned above. Prominently, former Communist leaders Choibalsan and Tsedenbal are memorialized north of the Government House, as is Sanjaasürengiin Zorig, leader of the 1990 democratic revolution, at a location southwest of Chinggis Square. There are also many lesser-known statues scattered through the city: there's a bust of Stalin inside a beer garden south of Chinggis Square, some old Soviet murals on the side of apartment buildings north of the Bogd Khan Winter Palace, and you'll even see The Beatles and the villain from the movie ''Predator'' holding court in front of the State Department Store and in front of a small office building 100 m northeast of there, respectively. ===Sport venues=== * {{see | name=AIC Steppe Arena | alt= | url=https://steppearena.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.847555 | long=106.793059 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65066205 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Buyant Ukhaa Sport Palace | alt= | url=http://www.sport.gov.mn/ | email= | address=Ulziit Road | lat=47.85444 | long=106.78417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4155958 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=UG Arena | alt= | url=https://ugarena.mn/ | email=marketing@urangan.mn | address= | lat=47.904667 | long=106.899266 | directions= | phone= +976 77712111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ===Parks, gardens and nature=== * {{see | name=National Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bayanzürkh | lat=47.898528 | long=106.947667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q131416188 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ulaanbaatar Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=corner of Narnii Road and Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.909162 | long=106.916782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ulaanbaatar Park.jpg | wikidata=Q131424861 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Yavuuhulan Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address=Noyon Hutagt Danzanravjaa Street | lat=47.918333 | long=106.909111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q131424582 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Korea-Mongolia Friendship Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dambadarjaa Street, Sükhbaatar | lat=47.984333 | long=106.949694 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Korea-Mongolia Friendship Forest | wikidata=Q131424610 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Amgalan Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.910082 | long=107.000472 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Günjiin Nüden Lake | alt=Гүнжийн Нүдэн Нуур | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.949191 | long=106.838245 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Do== ===Outdoors=== *'''Bogd Uul''', the mountain ridge south of town, is a great place for a hike. To get there, take the #7, #33 or #43 bus from in front of the Bayangol Hotel to the south end of the line. From there, the road continues south about 100 m, whereupon you'll come to a checkpoint. Proceed, bear left when the road forks, and you'll soon find yourself in a ''ger'' camp with a small stream flowing north. This is where the hiking path itself begins, on the left (east) side of the stream. At the top of the ridge, veer west and proceed through the woods for an easy amble of about two or three hours (you'll come to a high point about 500 m past the turn). At the end of that stretch, you have the option of either branching off to the west or else continuing straight and slightly east to Bogd Uul Mountain (this path is marked with orange paint marks on the trees). That part of the trip is quite long — about 10 km one-way — and more challenging, with varying elevations. *{{do | name=Sky Resort | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/skyresortofficial/ | email=info@skyresort.mn | address= | lat=47.8728 | long=107.04537 | directions=13 km from city center. Go south to Zaisan, then east along the river past the President's Residence | phone=+976 11 320345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=07:00-22:00 | price=Under US$20 | wikipedia=Sky Resort | wikidata=Q7537479 | content=A winter sports resort offering downhill skiing, snowboarding, lifts, equipment rental, ski and snowboard school, and an onsite restaurant. There's a free bus from the Drama Center (next to the Grand Khan Irish Pub) with departures between 08:00 and 19:30 (frequent service on weekends, more sporadic midweek; check schedule to verify bus times). }} [[Image:Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Naadam Festival in July]] ===Festivals=== * {{do | name=Naadam | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Sports Stadium (Mongolia) | image=Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg | wikidata=Q1451543 | content=The largest and most famous festival in Mongolia, Naadam is held annually from July 11-13 and consists of competitions in the three traditional Mongolian sports of wrestling, horse-racing and archery. The {{marker|type=do|name=National Sports Stadium|lat=47.90258|long=106.91538}}, besides being the main venue for the festival, also serves as the country's main football and baseball stadium as well as a venue for occasional concerts and cultural events. }} * {{do | name=Playtime Festival | alt= | url=https://playtimefestival.com/home_eng | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q121432894 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Mongolia's largest annual outdoor music festival. }} ===Theatre and performance=== * {{do | name=National Academic Drama Theater | alt=Улсын драмын эрдмийн театр | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91507 | long=106.91473 | directions=in the red Georgian building just south of the Post Office on Chinggis Avenue | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Prices vary, generally cheap for Mongolian-language performances | wikipedia=Mongolian State Academic Drama Theatre | image=State Academic Drama Theater.jpg | wikidata=Q6899648 | content=Mostly presents Mongolian plays in drama, musicals, or children's performances. Tickets are sold at the "KACC" office in front.... }} * {{do | name=ASA Arena | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91206 | long=106.90776 | directions=on Seoul Street south of the State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=ASA Arena | image=ASA Arena.jpg | wikidata=Q56284752 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Home to the world-famous Mongolian contortionists, where most of the world's professional contortionists get their start. The circus also features animals, jugglers, and other entertainment. }} * {{do | name=State Opera and Ballet Theater | alt=National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Mongolia | url=http://www.opera-ballet.mn | email=opera_ballet@yahoo.com | address=Chinggis Square | lat=47.91843 | long=106.91924 | directions=in the pinkish building on the southeast side of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Box office W-Su 10:00-13:00, 14:00-17:00 | price=Prices vary by performance, local productions can be very inexpensive | wikipedia=Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet | image=Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet.jpg | wikidata=Q559620 | content=While visiting Chinggis Square, it may be worthwhile to check out the board in front of this theatre to see if there is an upcoming performance. Most performances are at 17:00 Saturday and Sunday. Local performances may not be great, but are very cheap. Ballet troupes and opera companies from Russia also occasionally visit.. }} * {{do | name=Tumen Ekh | alt= | url=https://tumen-ekh.mn/ | email=info@tumen-ekh.mn | address= | lat=47.91277 | long=106.91609 | directions=south of the Main Square, west of Shangri-La hotel, in the Children's Palace | phone=+976 11 322238 | tollfree= | hours=Daily performances from May-Oct at 18:00, on weekdays in Oct-Nov 15th | price=30,000₮ | lastedit=2023-08-28 | content=A traditional dance ensemble founded in 1989 that performs dances, music and religious ceremonies for audiences of mostly foreign tourists. Performances last about an hour and are far from the usual tourist schlock: these very skilled artists take their work seriously and have been on tour in the U.S., UK and other countries. }} * {{do | name=Mongolian Theatre Museum | alt= | url=https://mongoliantheatremuseum.com/ | email= | address=Amar St | lat=47.9199 | long=106.9195 | directions=on the 3rd floor of the Central Cultural Palace Building | phone=+976 11 31 1320 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6899660 | lastedit=2023-12-19 | content=A performing arts museum founded in 1991 presenting the history of Mongolian film and theatre.. }} * {{do | name=Wrestling Palace | alt=Bökhiin Örgöö | url= | email= | address=Bayanzürkh | lat=47.917917 | long=106.935278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bökhiin Örgöö | image=Wrestling Palace.jpg | wikidata=Q2154011 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=Sports complex that is home to the Mongolian wrestling competitions and also hosts music concerts. }} * {{do | name=Ganzam Palace | alt=Ганзам палас | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.915134 | long=106.885202 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ganzam Palace.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{do | name=HUN Theater | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/HUNTheatre/ | email=info.huntheatre@gmail.com | address=Sky Resort Road | lat=47.879228 | long=107.042646 | directions= | phone=+976 77774488 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{do | name=Youth Theater | alt= | url=http://youththeatre.mn/ | email=info@youththeatre.mn | address= | lat=47.936977 | long=106.813443 | directions= | phone=+97675991133 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ===Miscellaneous=== * Get an inexpensive '''massage''' at one of the many massage spas on Peace Avenue. * {{do | name=National Amusement Park | alt=Үндэсний соёл амралтын хүрээлэн | url=https://www.facebook.com/park.mongolia | email= | address= | lat=47.90842 | long=106.9237 | directions=500 m south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:00-19:00 year round | price=1000₮ to enter plus extra for each ride | image=Mongolian National Amusement Park Castle.JPG | wikidata=Q110014267 | content=Open since 1969, the park today features a steel roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, a castle surround by an artificial lake, and bowling. }} ==Learn== The {{marker|type=listing|name=[http://mongoliacenter.org/ American Center for Mongolian Studies]|lat=47.91964|long=106.90870|zoom=18}} (ACMS) provides in-depth insight via an academic approach into Mongolian culture. The center has a study room and library of Mongolia-related material, with Internet access. It is on the campus of the '''Mongolian National University''', on the third floor of Building #5. As well, there are several '''Mongolian-language schools''' throughout the city. On Facebook look for various learning clubs or English-learning local clubs offering local meetups and you may attend some of them to learn local culture or to participate in interesting local activities. ==Buy== [[File:Socialist architecture (6216616617).jpg|thumb|Post-WWII architecture in the city center]] Cash is becoming less and less common, with many shops, eateries, and even street vendors and taxi drivers accepting bank transfer (using SMS or banking apps), QR code payment (multiple systems in use), and debit/credit cards. As a visitor, have cash and a paywave-enabled card. It's relatively easy to find an ATM to withdraw cash. Most ATMs accept foreign credit and debit cards to withdraw ''tögrög'' (the local currency) as long as you have informed your bank ahead of time as to your Mongolian travel plans; most will charge you a foreign currency conversion fee of about 3%. Besides Visa, other card types are also accepted, but not as widely: for example, the machines in the Central Post Office and along the main street will not accept foreign MasterCards, although they bear the logo. The only ATM that accepts Cirrus cards is the one at the airport. UB also has many banks and exchange offices where ''tögrög'' can be obtained. Golomt and TDB are the most reliable banks for currency exchange, the former of which can give up to US$500 per day cash advance on MasterCard and Visa and also accepts American Express. Exchange offices can mainly be found along Peace Avenue in the city center, including one on the ground floor of the '''State Department Store'''. However, you'll find better rates at the one on the second floor of the '''Flower Center''', on Peace Avenue one block west of the Post Office. Lastly, major hotels like the '''Ulaanbaatar Hotel''' will exchange money 24/7 at the reception, which may be your only option if you arrive very late in the day. Keep in mind that you'll need a form of ID to exchange foreign currency - a passport will do. See [[Mongolia#Money]] for exchange rates for the ''tögrög''. ===Major shopping centers=== * {{buy | name=State Department Store | alt=Улсын Их Дэлгүүр | url=https://www.facebook.com/UlsiinIkhDelguur | email= | address= | lat=47.917028 | long=106.90625 | directions=west of Chinggis Square on Peace Avenue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-22:00 | price= | wikidata=Q125944026 | content=Formerly a state-owned department store (hence the name), today it is the busiest luxury shopping mall in the city, with everything from groceries to cashmere to TVs sold on all six floors of the building. Though privately owned nowadays, the customer service still has a certain impersonal, bureaucratic feel. Check out the fifth floor for the largest souvenir shops in UB. }} * {{buy | name=3rd & 4th Microdistrict | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92285 | long=106.88144 | directions=northwest side of Gandan, 2 km north of the train station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=You'll find several malls, name-brand stores, restaurants, supermarkets, curbside booths, and a movie theater at UB's largest shopping district. Selection ranges from luxury brands down to cheap Chinese imports. Traffic congestion is heavy in this part of the city. }} * {{buy | name=Emart Department stores | alt=Emart | url= | email= | address= | lat=47 | long=106 | directions=at the north of Chingis Khaan hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-10-15 | image=Ulaanbaatar (22933227425).jpg | content=This subsidiary of the South Korean retailer has three department stores in Ulaanbaatar that offer mostly South Korean and some domestic goods. It has a good groceries department as well. The first store is just north of Chingis Khaan Hotel, the second is in Bayangol district, and the third is in Khan Uul district. }} * {{buy | name=Galleria Ulaanbaatar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/GalleriaUlaanbaatar | email= | address=Ikh Surguuli Street | lat=47.920583 | long=106.919111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130259098 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Gegeenten Entertainment Center | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaisan Street | lat=47.897099 | long=106.908772 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Gegeenten Entertainment Center.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Hunnu Mall | alt=Хүннү Молл | url=https://hunnumall.mn/ | email=info@hunnumall.mn | address=Naadamchid Road | lat=47.878675 | long=106.851142 | directions= | phone=+976 77112222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ===Markets=== [[File:Khar Zakh (Black Market), Ulan Bator, Mongolia.jpg|thumb|Items for sale at the Naran Tuul (Black Market)]] * {{buy | name=Narantuul Market | alt=Black Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.90814 | long=106.94645 | directions=3 km east of the children's park on Narni Zam road | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Closed on Monday | price= | wikipedia=Narantuul Market | image=Narantuul Market.jpg | wikidata=Q130051111 | content=The main market for most of the city's residents, Naran Tuul is the place to go to shop like a local. Haggle over cheap clothes, toys, fur hats, vintage Soviet propaganda pins, or anything you can imagine in a vast, partially indoor retail emporium a 10-minute bus or taxi ride from the city center. There are also several slightly more upscale shopping centers just west of the market. Only take a minimum of cash with you in a money belt or inner jacket pocket and leave all valuables at your accommodation, as pickpockets are common here. }} ===Souvenir shops=== Ulaanbaatar has a host of souvenir shops aimed at both Western and East Asian tourists, mostly along Peace Avenue west of Chinggis Square. Traditional clothes, boots and hats, cashmere garments, jewelry, leather wall hangings, miniature ''gers'', bow-and-arrow sets, and paintings are among the typical inventory. While the quality of the goods varies, prices are usually high. * {{buy | name=Flower Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91691 | long=106.91218 | directions=corner of Peace Avenue and Ikh Toiruu ring road, west of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the larger souvenir shops in the city; a broad selection, but a bit pricey. There is a money exchange center on the second floor. }} * {{buy | name=Mary & Martha | alt= | url=http://www.mmmongolia.com/ | email=info.mmmongolia@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91739 | long=106.91011 | directions=north of the State Department Store bus stop, look for the signs | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small free-trade shop full of beautiful handmade souvenirs, handbags, and wall hangings. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Librairie Papillon | url=https://www.facebook.com/librairie.papillon/ | email= | address= | lat=47.9224 | long=106.9179 | directions=on University Avenue, just past the main Mongolian National University building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers high-quality English-language books about Mongolia, resources for learning the Mongolian language, and a selection of classic literature to read on your journey. The atmosphere feels like taking a little break from Mongolia and entering [[France]]. }} * {{buy | name=Mike's Bookstore | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/Books-in-English-316361135178963/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91585 | long=106.9051 | directions=south of the Bayangol Hotel, west of the New Building | phone=+976 9903 6703 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used books are bought and sold here. There's even a buyback policy. Selection is mostly but not exclusively English-language. }} ===Miscellaneous=== * {{buy | name=Seven Summits Outdoor Shop | alt= | url=http://sevensummits-shop.com | email=maira@activemongolia.com | address= | lat=47.916263 | long=106.915070 | directions=on Peace Avenue 50 m west of Chinggis Square, in a row of shops on the south side of the street | phone=+976 11 329456 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-09 | content=If you're looking for gear you can't find elsewhere, ''e.g.'' an adaptor for a screw-on stove to use the ubiquitous clip-on cylinders, since screw-on types seem to be unavailable anywhere, Seven Summits is your place. They're a bit on the pricey side, though. }} ==Eat== Ulaanbaatar has a good range of options serving Mongolian, Asian (particularly Korean and Chinese), and Western cuisine — and at decent prices. For instance, you can get perfectly good pizza for 5000₮, and even a night out at a fancy French cafe shouldn't pass 30,000₮. Consider splurging on a couple of good meals here, especially if you're headed for a long trek into the country where fresh vegetables and the like are often hard to come by and prohibitively expensive. Best of all, UB's rapidly growing wealth has meant a steady procession of ever newer, ever higher-quality restaurants, as well as the appearance of international chains like '''KFC''', '''Round Table Pizza''', and '''Cinnabon'''. === Vegan === Mongolia's Buddhist history means that vegan and vegetarian restaurants are plentiful, and quality is high. Traditional Mongolian foods like ''buuz'' (steamed dumplings) and ''khushuur'' (fried dumplings) have vegan versions available at vegan restaurants; if you have dietary restrictions, you won't have to miss out on traditional food. '''In the city centre around the Sukhbaatar Square''' * {{eat | name=Luna Blanca | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/LunaBlancaRestaurant/ | email=luna@lunablanca.org | address= | lat=47.91981 | long=106.91393 | directions=across the street from and just west of the National Museum near Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 9907-7885 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 11:00-20:00, Sa-Su 12:00-20:00 | price=Around 4000₮ (Feb 2018) | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Good-quality vegan food. Attached to a Buddhist meditation centre, therefore short opening hours (closes around 9pm).<br />If you're looking to self-cater they also sell a modest selection of groceries including vegan sausages. }} * {{eat | name=Vegan House Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=south-east corner of the intersection of Ikh Toiruu and Seoul St | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Numerous vegan options including very good buuz. }} * {{eat | name=Loving Hut - Barilgachdyn Talbai | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=across the street and slightly west from Zanabazar Museum | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=The best of several Loving Huts scattered across UB. }} * {{eat | name=Agnista Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in a small business center in the middle of a city block just West of the Parliament Building | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Wide variety of Mongolian and Western food, as well as frozen buuz that you can bring home. }} * {{eat | name=Agnista Vegan Food | alt= | url= | email= | address=706 Seoul St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Similar to the other Agnista but with less of a crowd during lunchtime. }} * {{eat | name=Bosco Verde | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=beside ASA Arena | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Italian vegetarian restaurant }} ===Budget=== [[File:Mongolian Street Food.jpg|thumb|Mongolian street food]] Throughout Ulaanbaatar are many small canteens ''(Гуанз)'' and coffeeshops ''(Цайны Газар)''. Try one of these for cheap Mongolian food. ''Buuz'' usually costs 400-600₮. As well, most universities (particularly the '''Mongolian National University''' and the '''Mongolian University of Science and Technology''') have good cheap cafeterias with meals from 1800₮ to about 2500₮. '''[https://www.khaanbuuz.mn/ Khaan Buuz]''' (Хаан Бууз) serves up set meals of Mongolian favorites (buuz is a Mongolian meat dumpling) from 5000₮, just look for the lime green facades. '''CU''' and '''GS25''' are ubiquitous Korean-style convenience stores that offer good cheap fast food and eating space at their stores; prices range from 2000-8500₮. Be circumspect of frozen foods, check for freezer burn, and products tainted from power failures and spoilage. ====Around the State Department Store==== * {{eat | name=Joe's Corner Burgers | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91826 | long=106.90632 | directions=tucked between the apartment buildings behind the State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Stops serving around 21:00 | price=4000-5500₮ | lastedit= | content=Burgers and hot dogs, with fries: probably the best value in UB for this kind of American fare. }} ====East Ulaanbaatar near the International Intellectual Museum==== * {{eat | name=Papa Cafe | alt= | url= | email=papacafe2010@gmail.com | address=Их Монгол Улсын гудамж | lat=47.91908 | long=106.93987 | directions=second building east from the British Embassy on Peace Avenue, next to a parking lot, on the second floor | phone=+976 11 461687 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-21:00, Sa 09:00-21:00 | price=4000-7000₮ | lastedit= | content=Burgers, chicken burgers, espresso and baked goods. On Saturday they open at 09:00 and serve a breakfast special of one large waffle with fresh fruit, ice cream, bacon, Mongolian blueberry jam and syrup, plus coffee and other drinks. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{eat | name=Chinggis Club | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92653 | long=106.91445 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00-24:00 | price=US$10 | content=The '''Chinggis Brewery'''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s in-house restaurant, serving German cuisine and (of course) their own locally brewed light and dark beers on tap. }} * {{eat | name=Hishig Mongol Zoog | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91300 | long=106.86367 | directions=on Peace Avenue several kilometers west of the State Department Store, near the third hospital | phone=+976 7017 8158 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$6-10 | content=If you want to experience authentic Mongolian cuisine, this is the place. Serves roasted sheep head, roasted ribs, ''buuz'', and dried meat soup. No foreign-language menu or staff, though. }} *{{eat | name=Millie's Espresso | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Millies-Espresso-195142818141/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91433 | long=106.9179 | directions=on the west side of the Choijin Lama Monastery | phone=+976 11 33 0338 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-20:00 | price=US$10 | content=Good selection of American-style coffeeshop fare, including some vegetarian options. Free Wi-Fi. }} *{{eat | name=Nayra Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nayra-Cafe/184137758298553 | email= | address= | lat=47.91991 | long=106.90754 | directions=two blocks west of the Government House | phone= +976 11 31 7098 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=opens 08:00 | price=Most under 8000₮ | content=Good pizza, sandwiches, and coffee. Free WiFi. }} * {{eat | name=Venus Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92617 | long=106.91010 | directions=two blocks east and then three blocks north of the State Department Store, on the left a few doors past the French Bakery | phone=+976 1327496 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=lunch, dinner | price=US$10 for dinner, lunch set menu US$5 | content=Malaysian specialties including masala, roti, and spicy curries. }} * {{eat | name=Modern Nomads | alt=several restaurants in town | url=http://www.modernnomads.mn/index.php?r=1&lang=en | email= | address= | lat=47.9138 | long=106.9218 | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent variety and quality for both locals and tourists. Good, clean toilets are an added bonus. |lastedit=2018-02-28}} * {{eat | name=Hurrem Sultan Turkish Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.904976 | long=106.911325 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Hurrem Sultan Turkish Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Turkish restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Pakistani & Indian Cuisine | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Halalfoodrestaurantmn | email= | address=Baruun Selbe Street | lat=47.918296 | long=106.907029 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pakistani & Indian Cuisine.jpg | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Halal Indian Pakistani restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.904049 | long=106.911058 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Indian restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Lanzhou Beef Noodles | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.905213 | long=106.911432 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Lanzhou Beef Noodles (Khan Uul, Ulaanbaatar).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Chinese restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Lale Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mongolian National University, L. Enebish Avenue | lat=47.925556 | long=106.892034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Lale Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal restaurant, part of the Mongolian National University }} ===Splurge=== It's hard to spend outrageous sums of money eating out in Ulaanbaatar: the most expensive meals in the city will be around 60,000₮ a person. That is, unless you're drinking: whiskey or any other non-vodka liquors can be a bit pricey. * '''Caucasia:''' Just behind the circus. Serving Armenian and Georgian cuisine. Excellent quality. * '''Chojin''': In front of the Chojin Lama Museum on the ground floor of an office building. Serves a small but excellent selection of Mediterranean dishes. Very popular business dinner location for the locals. Reservation recommended. * '''Hana Japanese Restaurant'''. On Chinggis Avenue next to the National Library, on the first floor of an office building. Impossible to spot from the outside, just go in and ask at the reception. You get advised to follow a fire security stairway up. Despite the non-glamorous arrival, the Hana is a high-end Japanese restaurant. Elegant atmosphere. Excellent Japanese dishes including udon soups, sushi and barbecue. Meals up to 30.000 T. Including starters and drinks, be prepared to spend 50.000-60.000 T. * {{eat | name=California Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91296 | long=106.90093 | directions=on Seoul Street, west of the circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=10,000-30,000₮ per meal | content=Extensive menu of both foreign and Mongolian specialties. Beautifully decorated, high-quality food including vegetarian specialties (good tofu!) It's a bit small, but in the summer there is additional outside seating. Reservations are advised. }} * {{eat | name=Hazara North Indian Restaurant | alt= | url=http://hazara.mn | email=hazaraub@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91728 | long=106.93516 | directions=behind the Wrestling Palace | phone=+976 99195007, +976 11 480214 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From 10,000&nbsp;₮ | content=Serving spicy North Indian, Kashmiri, and Afghani food since 1997. Food is all halal, with vegan options available. Well-decorated restaurant and costumed waitresses can make you think you are in [[Delhi]] instead of Mongolia. }} * {{eat | name=Los Bandidos | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92601 | long=106.91809 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road, not far north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 1131 4167 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$7-10 | content=Mexican-Indian fusion: don't knock it until you taste the spicy chicken masala or crispy ''taquitos''. The prices are higher now than they used to be, but the atmosphere has improved along with it. }} * {{eat | name=Namaste Indian Restaurant | alt= | url=http://namaste.mn/ | email=namaste.ub@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.92419 | long=106.93752 | directions=at the Flower Hotel | phone=+976 99270957 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=20,000₮ | content=Mongolia's first halal-certified restaurant, serves some of the best Indian food in the city. There is another location on the Outer Ring Road in the Impex building. }} *{{eat | name=Turning Point Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91500 | long=106.90708 | directions=on Tserendorj Street, three blocks west of Chinggis Square via Peace Avenue and then half a block south | phone=+976 7011 9940 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Sandwiches for 12,000₮ | content=Jazz-themed restaurant and bar featuring modern decor, international cuisine, and a wide range of beer, wine and cocktails. Regular live entertainment. }} ===Grocery stores=== * {{eat | name=Good Price Supermarket | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91293 | long=106.90070 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-22:00 | price= | content=Catering to expats and well-heeled locals, Good Price is Mongolia's most reliable source of luxuries such as peanut butter, breakfast cereals, canned beans, and cheese. But don't be fooled by the place's astoundingly inaccurate name: these luxuries come at a much higher cost than at any other supermarket in the country. }} * {{eat | name=Mercury Food Market | alt=Chinese Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91206 | long=106.90377 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Closed on Mondays | price= | content=This small market in the city center is one of the best places to get imported fruits, vegetables, and packaged goods. }} * {{eat | name=eMart | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.923129 | long=106.934337 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The eMart store at the Chingis Khaan hotel is a subsidiary of the South Korean grocery chain that sells medium- to good-quality groceries, especially good vegetables and fruits. The second branch is at the Urgoo cinema in Bayangol district and the third branch is at Zaisan. The second floor is consumer goods and the first floor is grocery. }} * {{eat | name=eMart 2nd branch | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.922927 | long=106.867317 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The eMart store is a subsidiary of the South Korean grocery chain that sells medium- to good-quality of groceries, especially good vegetables and fruits. The second branch is at the Urgoo cinema in Bayangol district and the third branch is at Zaisan. The second floor is consumer goods and first floor is grocery. }} * {{eat | name=State Department Store | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.916721 | long=106.906278 | directions=West of Sukhbaatar Square on Peace Avenue, this 6-floor building has its English name prominently displayed. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The State Department Store is the main store of Nomin food chain stores. Groceries are on the first floor. There are a book shop and souvenir shops on the fifth floor. In the intermediate floors clothing, electronics, and house accessories are available. Food items can be returned within 24 hours and other non-food items can be returned within few weeks or months depending on the type of merchandise. The receipt must be presented. }} ==Drink== === Bars === Nightlife in Ulaanbaatar is surprisingly wild, especially on Wednesday, Saturday, and (above all) Friday nights, when finding a seat is nearly impossible. If you like raving the night away to trance, techno, electronica, and house music, this is the scene for you. Beer in clubs costs about 3500₮, while other drinks such as vodka are sold by quantity: for example a 100g vodka costs about 4500₮. According to state law, all clubs and pubs (bars) must stop serving alcohol after midnight and close at 03:00, but some clubs stay open (and continue serving!) until 04:00. On the other hand, the prohibition against serving alcohol on the 1st of each month is universally adhered to, even if it falls on a weekend. Especially after dark, and especially on the aforementioned three busiest days of the week, it's best to go out clubbing in groups rather than alone: not only will you be less likely to run afoul of shady characters, but authorities take a hard line against public intoxication, and the Mongolian drunk tank is not a pleasant place to be. As well, the clubs in the 3rd district and the Sansar microdistrict are best avoided. Be sure to apologize if you hit someone or step on their feet accidentally, because this is a rather considerable breach of local etiquette. If you step on someone's feet accidentally, offer to shake their hand. This is Mongolian custom, and will also win you praise and respect amongst locals. *{{drink | name=Ambrosia Restaurant | url=https://www.facebook.com/ambrosiaeventhall/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91343 | long=106.91548 | directions=across Chinggis Avenue from KFC, south of the Post Office | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=3000₮ for a beer | content=A nice little restaurant that turns into a club at night, with good drink specials. Popular with foreigners. }} *{{drink | name=Ikh Mongol | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91322 | long=106.90792 | directions=next to the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=3500₮ a half-liter and up | content=Patrons of this brewpub can choose between the main dining area, the fancy VIP upstairs, or secluded tables in the back. Most weekends have concerts from Mongolian bands. In addition to the house brews served on tap, the more popular Mongolian brands are served. }} *{{drink | name=Mass | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mass-Night-Club/263191093695809 | email= | address= | lat=47.91953 | long=106.87466 | directions=in the 3rd/4th microdistrict | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the aforementioned clubs that likes to stay open illicitly past 03:00. Caters to a younger clientele. }} *{{drink | name=Strings | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Strings/208178542535499 | email= | address= | lat=47.91827 | long=106.88992 | directions=in the White House Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A somewhat notorious club frequented by foreigners as well as Asian businessmen. }} If clubbing isn't your thing, UB also has its share of more sedate pubs to choose from. *{{drink | name=Le Bistrot Francais | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/bistrotfrancaisUB | email= | address= | lat=47.92385 | long=106.91794 | directions=on the west side of University Street, a block north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 32 0022 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Enjoy a ''pastis'' and have a nice dinner at the only French restaurant in Ulaanbaatar. }} *{{drink | name=Brauhaus | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91302 | long=106.90284 | directions=on Seoul Street past the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Half-liters run around 2500₮ | image=Brauhaus Exterior.jpg | content=Goes for a German brewhouse look (hence the name) and succeeds. This bar is big but usually not noisy. It serves X Beer, a quite tasty local brew. }} *{{drink | name=Dublin Irish Pub | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91377 | long=106.90632 | directions=on Seoul Street between the State Department Store and the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open until midnight | price= | content=Closer to an actual Irish bar than most. }} *{{drink | name=Grand Khaan Irish Pub | alt= | url=https://gk-irishpub.mn/?lang=en | email= | address= | lat=47.91529 | long=106.9142 | directions=next to the National Drama Theater, south of the Post Office | phone= | tollfree= | hours=12:00-22:00 | price=4000₮ for a beer, 15,000₮ for a meal | image=Grand Khaan Irish Pub.jpg | content=A comfortable sports bar and grill with English-speaking staff. }} === Cafes === Ulaanbaatar's coffee scene is exploding, with multiple Korean coffee chains as well as more boutique offerings available throughout the city. * {{drink | name=ROC Caffeine Bar | url=https://roc.mn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A local coffee franchise with its own roastery and 5 branches. Probably the best coffee to be had in the city. |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Caffe Bene | url=https://www.caffebene.mn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Korean coffee chain offering Korean-style desserts |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Tom N Toms Coffee | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100079466408969 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-25 | content=another Korean coffee chain. }} * {{drink | name=Tous Les Jours | url=https://www.facebook.com/TousLesJoursMongolia/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Korean bakery chain with a good coffee section |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Cafe de Lolita | alt=Кафе де Лолита | url=https://www.facebook.com/cafe.de.lolitaa | email= | address=Chingeltei | lat=47.91875 | long=106.905361 | directions= | phone=+976 88006757 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Cafe de Lolita.jpg | wikidata=Q121355565 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=The first and only maid and anime café in Mongolia. }} ==Sleep== During the annual [[#Festivals|Naadam festival]] in July, it's almost impossible to get any kind of accommodation in UB without prior reservations. ===Budget=== Nowadays, budget accommodation in Ulaanbaatar tends to give the best deals for a traveller. Usually a bed in a clean dormitory costs US$5-10 and a double room should be under US$30 a night. Beyond what's listed below, another option for budget travellers who want a taste of authentic Mongolian culture yet are in a hurry or don't want to do longer trekking trips is a ''ger'' homestay with a herder family living in the countryside outside UB. Usually it is possible to participate in their daily life, ''e.g.'' milking cows or chopping wood. Horseback riding might be offered as well. Some travel agencies are able to establish contact with families, including '''[http://stonehorsemongolia.com/ecotourism/ger-stay/ Stone Horse Mongolia]''' and '''[http://www.gertoger.org Ger to Ger]'''. * {{sleep | name=Bolod's Guesthouse and Tours | url=http://bolodtours.com | email=u_borchy@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.92170 | long=106.90575| directions=across the street from Chinggis Square, enter through gate across from Post Office | phone=+976 99192407 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$7/night | lastedit=2017-06-20 | content=Still UB's most centrally located guesthouse, but the place has gone downhill: where cozy, high-ceilinged, clean and bright rooms once greeted you, you now have small, windowless rooms with noisy refrigerators that wake you up several times a night. There's also no kitchen anymore. The shower, which is in the entrance, is clean, but your privacy is only protected by a translucent glass. English-, Russian-, French-, and Italian-speaking staff are on duty during the daytime only. No credit cards are accepted. Bolod also provides tours at good prices and is known to arrange unique trips involving tank-driving and AK-47 shooting. }} * {{sleep | name=Chinggis Guest House and Tours | url= | email=chingisguest@magicnet.mn | address= | lat=47.91492 | long=106.90604| directions=on Chinggis Avenue behind the National Academic Drama Theatre and Bayangol Hotel | phone=+976 99271843, +976 11-325941 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm US$8, double or twin US$10 | content=Clean and comfortable rooms with breakfast, Internet, hot shower, and use of kitchen facilities included in the price. Centrally located and quiet. }} * {{sleep | name=Gana's Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email=gharchin@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.9216 | long=106.8991 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road northwest of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 1136 7343 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$5 in a 6-bed ''ger'' to $25 for a double in the newly built wing | content=This guesthouse stands out from the rest: rather than the standard setup of spartan dorm rooms with bunk beds, guests are accommodated in roomy ''gers'' set up on an airy porch in an excellent central location overlooking downtown UB, only two minutes on foot from Gandan Monastery. Run by a friendly, helpful family, who like most guesthouse proprietors also double as tour operators. }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Gobi | alt= | url= | email=golden_gobi@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91756 | long=106.90815 | directions=off Peace Avenue close to the State Department Store | phone=+976 11-322632, +976 96654496 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-322632 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorms US$6, private rooms from $19 | content=Another cheap and friendly place with free breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Green Steppe Mongolia Guest House | alt= | url= | email=greensteppemongolia@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91735 | long=106.90871 | directions=50 m east of the State Department Store, off Peace Avenue | phone=+976 88033080, +976 88038388 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=anytime | checkout=noon | price=US$6/night | content=A small and quiet guesthouse comprising a couple of dorm rooms and two fully-furnished one-bedroom apartments, with a pleasant patio out back for picnicking. Friendly staff can organize tours to all parts of Mongolia. Complimentary amenities include breakfast in the morning and tea all day, wireless Internet as well as two wired computer terminals, lockers for guests, secure parking for motorbikes and bicycles, hot showers, and cheap laundry service. }} * {{sleep | name=Idre's Guesthouse | alt= | url=https://tours2mongolia.com/ | email=idrehouse@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91121 | long=106.89446 | directions=14253 Narnii Guur, about 2 km from Chinggis Square; take Seoul Street west then turn left | phone=+976 99112575 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Friendly family-run guesthouse with US$4 dorm beds. Rooms are clean, staff are helpful, and tickets and tours can be arranged without hassle. }} *{{sleep | name=Lotus Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://www.lotuschild.org/ | email= | address= | lat=47.92448 | long=106.91208 | directions=northwest of Chinggis Square, on Ikh Toiruu ring road across from School #5, on the second floor of Building 17 | phone=+976 11 325967 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$10-30/night | content=A nice and clean, if spartan, guesthouse run by the Lotus Foundation. Staff on duty 24 hours a day. Rooms have no high table except the very small one for the computer — and, importantly, '''no bedsheet''', and the quilt is not washed between clients! The shower room doesn't lock, and is closed by a translucent door. Free but unreliable WiFi. No credit cards accepted. }} * {{sleep | name=Oasis Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://intergam-oasis.com/ | email=info@intergam-oasis.com | address= | lat=47.91177 | long=106.98095 | directions=on the southeastern outskirts of town, about 5 km from Chinggis Square via Peace Avenue, near the Catholic church | phone=+976 11-463693 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-463693 | checkin= | checkout= | price=€10 | content=A modern-styled and lovingly furnished guesthouse run by a friendly German-Austrian couple who speak German, English, and Mongolian; lodging is in the spacious ''gers'' outside in the garden. Popular with "overlanders" travelling through Mongolia by car or motorcycle. Oasis' onsite café serves very good Western food including homemade cakes. There's a laundry room and hairdresser at the back of the building. }} * {{sleep | name=Petite Marmotte | alt= | url=http://mongolia-trip.com | email=resa@trekmongolie.com | address= | lat=47.9286 | long=106.9159 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 70 11 03 02, +976 888 243 17 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Bed dorm €5; double room €15; family room €25 (4 to 6 people) | lastedit=2024-05-21 | content=A well-located and quiet guesthouse with rooms decorated in traditional Mongolian style. The friendly staff speaks English and French, and is headed by a former chef who lives onsite and sometimes regales guests with tasty homecooked meals. They can also arrange tours. Wi-fi, washing machine, breakfast included. }} * {{sleep | name=Sunpath Hostel | alt= | url=http://sunpath-mongolia.com | email=info@sunpath-mongolia.com | address= | lat=47.92461 | long=106.91266 | directions=across the street from the Central Post Office and Chinggis Square | phone=+976 99143722 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-326323 | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$6/night | content=Sunpath is a centrally located, family-operated hostel perfect for foreign visitors offering free breakfast, free WiFi, and a publicly accessible wired computer terminal. Laundry service is available for a nominal charge. Kitchen facilities are open to guests. Sunpath's friendly staff organizes tours (having very good contacts with people living in the countryside) and are a wealth of information about Ulaanbaatar and Mongolia in general. }} * {{sleep | name=Town Yard Hostel | alt= | url= | email=oyuna_guest_house@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.919989 | long=106.893853 | directions=near Gandan Monastery | phone=+976 99889997, +976 99173469 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-08-13 | content=Hostel with fluent English-speaking owners situated just a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride to Chinggis Square. Free breakfast (with a menu that changes daily!) and free tea all day; kitchen facilities are also available for guests who'd like to self-cater other meals. They offer tours of (and can arrange accommodation at) [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]], but unlike pretty much every other hostel, they usually lay off the hard sell. Laundry service is available, though it's a bit pricey. }} * {{sleep | name=UB Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://www.ubguesthouse.com/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91936 | long=106.91095 | directions=near Zanzabar Museum; entrance is in the rear of the building facing the Mongol Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm beds US$6; single room $15; twin room $18; double room $20 | content=A clean, well-organized, and centrally located hostel that also arranges tours around the country. E-mail ahead for a free pickup from the train station. A light breakfast, tea and coffee are included. In theory you can use the phone between 10:00 to 18:00, but don't count on it. There's only a hotplate in the kitchen. Only foreigners allowed. No in-room guests. Staff is not terribly friendly. }} * {{sleep | name=Zaya Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://zayahostel.com/ | email=backpackza@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.91670 | long=106.90169 | directions=just off Peace Avenue west of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 331 575 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$20 for a single and US$27 for a double room | content=Zaya has two locations in the city center, both in newly renovated modern apartment buildings. The place is more suitable for a person looking for a clean and quiet place to sleep than a backpacker looking for a rowdy and noisy dorm. Free wireless Internet in the rooms. They also organize tours. }} ===Mid-range=== Ulaanbaatar has plenty of options for budget travellers and big spenders, but not so much for those in the middle. * {{sleep | name=Mandukhai Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91758 | long=106.90362 | directions=near State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=20,000-25,000₮/night | content=A nice inexpensive hotel in the city center. The hotel staff speaks little English, but rooms are large and include TV. Bathrooms are shared. }} * {{sleep | name=Royal House Hotel | alt=formerly Red Rose Hotel | url=http://www.royalhousehotel.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.915148 | long=106.944512 | directions=on the ring road east of the city center; take Peace Avenue east from Chinggis Square for about 2 km and then turn right | phone=+976 11 46 4088 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=One of UB's leading hotels, with a location among a cluster of major shopping centers and office buildings. 34 rooms of various levels of luxury: deluxe, semi-lux and standard. }} * {{sleep | name=ibis Styles Ulaanbaatar Polaris | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/9808/index.ru.shtml | email=H9808@accor.com | address=81 Chinggis Avenue, Khan-Uul | lat=47.895156 | long=106.883866 | directions= | phone=+976 70100707 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double US$120 | image=Ibis Styles Ulaanbaatar Polaris.jpg | lastedit=2025-01-09 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Bayangol Hotel | alt= | url=http://bayangolhotel.mn | email= | address= | lat=47.91203 | long=106.91365 | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=Bayangol Hotel.jpg | content=Close to the bars and Chinggis Square, but rooms are small and the Internet cuts in and out. }} * {{sleep | name=Blue Sky Hotel and Tower | alt= | url=http://hotelbluesky.mn | email= | address= | lat=47.91674 | long=106.91851 | directions=south side of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 7010 0505 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$200 | wikipedia=Blue Sky Tower | image=Felhőkarcoló a főtéren (Skyscraper on the central square) - panoramio.jpg | wikidata=Q15107804 | content=The tallest building in Mongolia. 200 rooms, plus several nice restaurants and bars including a lounge on the 23rd floor with views of the whole city.. }} * {{sleep | name=Chinggis Khaan Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.chinggis-hotel.com | email=reservation@chinggis-hotel.com | address= | lat=47.922101 | long=106.934609 | directions=four blocks east of Chinggis Square; take Beijing Street east for about 1200 m, then turn right on Tokyo Street | phone=+976 700 000 99 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q11074511 | content=Spacious rooms that can be described as "wannabe luxurious". }} * {{sleep | name=Corporate Hotel | alt=Корпорэйт зочид буудал | url=http://www.corporatehotel.mn/sector/sector-1 | email= | address= | lat=47.91299 | long=106.91355 | directions=on Chinggis Avenue, seven minutes on foot south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Corporate Hotel.jpg | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=Nice luxurious rooms as well as sauna, jacuzzi and free WiFi. }} * {{sleep | name=HS Khaan Resort Hotel | alt= | url=http://hs-khaan-resort.com/ | email= | address=Khui doloon hudag, Argalant soum | lat=47.971077 | long=106.480045 | directions=about 12 km west of central UB via Highway 3 | phone=+976-9908-8102 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A ''ger''-style resort in the countryside outside of town. All rooms have sweeping views over the steppes. }} * {{sleep | name=Kempinski Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.kempinski.com/en/ulaanbaatar/hotel-khan-palace/welcome/ | email=reservations.ulaanbaatar@kempinski.com | address= | lat=47.91982 | long=106.94365 | directions=about 2 km east of Chinggis Square, at northeast corner of Peace Avenue and Ikh Toiruu ring road | phone=+976 11 463 463 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A nice hotel on the east side of the city with several good restaurants, including '''Kara-Khorum''' with an excellent brunch on the weekends: various meats, fruit, omelet and juice bar, plus caviar and champagne. }} * {{sleep | name=Ramada Citycenter | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/ulaanbaatar-mongolia/ramada-ulaanbaatar-citycenter/overview | email= | address= | lat=47.91519 | long=106.89188 | directions=on Peace Avenue about 2 km west of Chinggis Square, a block past Ikh Toiruu ring road | phone=+976 7014 1111 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$200/night | content=One of the only international hotel chains in the city. On the top floor of the '''MaxMall''', near Gandan Monastery. Has all the standard features of a full-service Western hotel, including fitness center, sauna, and office space. }} * {{sleep | name=Shangri-La Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.shangri-la.com/ulaanbaatar/shangrila/ | email= | address= | lat=47.912953 | long=106.920231 | directions=on Olympic Street three blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 7702 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=From US$440/night | image=Shangri-La Ulaanbaatar.jpg | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=Centrally located high-rise property catering to a mix of business travellers and well-heeled tourists, with free WiFi, a fitness club, laundry and shoeshine service, and several onsite restaurants. Rooms are spacious, overlook either Chinggis Square or Nayramdal Park, and their design can be described as a modernized take on traditional Mongolian aesthetic elements. They'll pick you up from the airport upon prior arrangement. }} * {{sleep | name=Ulaanbaatar Hotel | alt= | url=http://ubhotel.mn/ | email=reservations@ubhotel.mn | address= | lat=47.91862 | long=106.92266 | directions=just off the east side of Sukhbaatar Square | phone=+976 11 320 620 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia=Ulaanbaatar Hotel | image=Ulaanbaatar Hotel.jpg | wikidata=Q10877907 | content=The first modern hotel ever built in Mongolia (in 1961) is showing its age. Nice central location, though. }} * {{sleep | name=Mongolica Hotel and Resort | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/mongolica.resort/ | email= | address= | lat=47.860788 | long=106.678861 | directions= | phone=+976 99199152 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ==Connect== On Peace Avenue at the southwest corner of Chinggis Square, Ulaanbaatar's {{marker|type=listing|name=Central Post Office|lat=47.91706|long=106.91578}} not only sells stamps but also a wide variety of reasonably priced postcards (though they may take up to two months to reach their destination!) Also check out their large collections of decorative stamps. '''Mobile phone''' operators around town offer prepaid GSM SIM cards, handset rentals (Mobicom), and extensive roaming options. As well, prepaid cards such as BodiCom are another convenient and relatively inexpensive way to make an international call. '''Internet''' Many restaurants and coffeehouses offer free WiFi. ==Stay safe== ===Crime=== While crime rates in Ulaanbaatar are said to be among the highest of any Asian city, this generally applies less to the city center than the underdeveloped ''ger'' districts on the outskirts of town: poorly lit shantytowns crisscrossed by maze-like dirt alleys and row upon row of fences; not the kind of place most tourists would be interested in to begin with. Nonetheless, it might be a good idea to avoid going out at night alone (though it's usually perfectly fine to do so in groups). This goes double for relatively deserted areas away from major routes, and for rowdy nightlife districts. Although most large buildings have security guards, they're only there to keep drunks and homeless people out, so don't expect much help from them if a crime is committed against you. Unfortunately, xenophobia and violence towards foreigners is common. Alcoholism is a huge social problem and Mongolia has some of the highest rates of liver cancer in the world. Do not acknowledge or approach any Mongolian man under the influence of alcohol. Many foreigners who go to bars and clubs at night report assault and general aggression. While muggings, assaults, and taxi scams all occasionally occur, the main crime for foreigners to be concerned about is '''pickpocketing'''. This is especially a problem at the '''Naran Tuul''' market, at the bus stops close to the '''State Department Store''', and on crowded buses in general. If you've been attacked or pickpocketed, take time to make a deposition at the district police station, and let your country's embassy know. Though unmarked taxis are common and generally nothing to fear, it's probably a good idea to get a local to serve as an interpreter and explain the fare system, and to keep an eye on where the taxi is taking you. Sometimes unmarked taxi drivers will try to take people, especially drunk tourists, down a dark alley and demand their cell phone or cash. ===Hotel scams=== Vacation home hosting is common in UB, foreign investors, locals, and real estate developers list available apartments on the usual booking sites. The frequency of fraud or crime with these listings is probably just as common as in established hotels elsewhere in the world, but there are some additional things to look out for, when an established hotel might seem to otherwise provide safety in numbers. Vacation rentals might be apartments in locations that have been caused to be otherwise unliveable due to nuisance conditions created with the intention of driving tenants or owners out. New construction in some areas is shoddy with thin walls and no privacy, projects are colonized by organized criminals gangs, retail spaces nearby might be venues for organized trafficking in persons. New buildings as elsewhere in Asia, are liable to be financed by organized crime groups from the usual places, largely unoccupied, unsecured and wholly thrown open for arbitrary use within international trafficking rings. Irregular hotels operated by noncitizens may be located in mixed use buildings or apartment complexes with persistent crime presence. In areas with high methamphetamine drug use, it might be difficult even to determine the nature or intent of the criminal actors. ===Road and traffic hazards=== Walking on the streets at any time is a hazardous affair, as there are open manholes, reckless drivers, and (from October to March) ice on the roads to contend with. The automobile culture in UB is too new for safe driving systems and habits to have taken root among the public: if you're crossing the street, even at a designated crosswalk and even if in theory you have the right of way, don't expect anyone (even buses and police) to stop or even slow down for you. You ''will'' get honked and shouted at, however. ===Child beggars=== This is a common sight on the streets of UB that may tug at the heartstrings of well-off Western tourists, but the reality is a bit more complicated than it may appear. Any money you give will often go straight into the pockets of their teenage "pimps", so your donation may not help the kids. It also pays to be on your guard when they operate in groups, as this is often a setup for a pickpocketing operation. Children and the elderly are frequently present in the areas where organized prostitution is taking place. Sex trafficking in Asia invariably involves call centers, and often family members or fellow travelers, taking direction from a handler in related crime activities. The objective is to obtain money, it is not to sell sex. ===General=== In winter, be mindful of the cold at all times. Even being outside for a couple of minutes in -35 can cause problems very, very quickly. In bars, many people may want to approach you and talk to you out of interest. This is usually well-meaning, though it can be annoying. As a general rule, the more drunk a person will be, the more annoying they will be too. If you are open to conversation, then go ahead. Mongolians are interesting and interested, and it can lead to great connections, memories and stories. However, remember to be wary. Some Mongolian men do not take too kindly to foreign men speaking to Mongolian women (especially young women). Be wary of this, especially in busy bars, and where copious amounts of alcohol is involved. ==Cope== ===Newspapers=== The weekly '''''[https://www.ubpost.mn/ UB Post]''''' is the principal English-language source for cultural, economic, and political goings-on in Mongolia. ===Embassies=== * {{flag|Australia}}{{listing | name=Australia | alt= | url=https://mongolia.embassy.gov.au/ | email= | address=Level 20, Shangri-La Centre, 19A Olympic Street, Sukhbaatar District-1 | lat= | long= | directions=Shangri-La Centre | phone=+976 7013 3001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata= |lastedit=2023-03-25| content= }} * {{flag|Canada}} {{listing | name=Canada | alt= | url= | email= | address=Central Tower, 6th floor | lat= | long= | directions=southeast corner of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 332500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33245649 | content= }} * {{flag|China}} {{listing | type=listing | name=China | alt= | url=http://mn.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/ | email=chinaemb_mn@mfa.gov.cn | address=Zaluuchuudyn Urgun Chuluu 5 | post = C.P.O.BOX672 | lat= | long= | directions=just northeast of the Government House | phone=+976 11 320955, +976 11 323940, +976 11 311903 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11 311943 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309063 | content=It is possible for most foreigners to get a Chinese visa here. During busy periods, the office may refuse entry after 11:00. Also, on major Chinese holidays, the Consular Section may be closed for several days. }} * {{flag|Cuba}} {{listing | name=Cuba | alt= | url= | email= | address=United Nations Street 18, Sükhbaatar district | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 323778 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309069 | content= }} * {{flag|Czech Republic}} {{listing | name=Czech Republic | alt= | url=http://www.mzv.cz/ulaanbaatar | email=ulaanbaatar@embassy.mzv.cz | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11321886, +976 99111880 (emergencies), +976 9909 8708 (emergencies) | tollfree= | fax=+976 11323791 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309276 | content= }} * {{flag|France}} {{listing | name=France | alt= | url=http://www.ambafrance-mn.org/ | email= | address=Peace Avenue 12, Sükhbaatar district | lat=47.917176 | long=106.913517 | directions=west of Chinggis Square, past the Central Post Office | phone=+976 11 324519 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2841766 | content= }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany | alt= | url= | email= | address=United Nations Street 18, Baga Toiruu 2, Sükhbaatar district | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 329522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309283 | content= }} * {{flag|India}} {{listing | name=India | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaluuchuud Avenue 10, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=just east of the Chinese embassy | phone=+976 11 329522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309392 | content= }} * {{flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Olympic Street 8, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 320777, +976 11 313332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309400 | content= }} * {{flag|Kazakhstan}} {{listing | name=Kazakhstan | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th khoroo, Zaisan Street 78, Khan-Uul District | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 345408 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309414 | content= }} * {{flag|Kuwait}} {{listing | name=Kuwait | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bella Vista Town, Zaisan Bella, 11th khoroo, Khan-Uul District | lat= | long= | directions=south of the city center, near the bridge to Zaisan Memorial | phone=+976 7744444 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309421 | content= }} * {{flag|Laos}} {{listing | name=Laos | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th khoroo, Ikh Toiruu Road 59, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=massive complex on the south side of Peace Avenue, East of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 326440 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309436 | content= }} * {{flag|North Korea}} {{listing | name=North Korea | alt= | url= | email= | address=Diplomatic Complex 95, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=behind the Embassy Restaurant near the Tengis Theater | phone=+976 11 310432 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309445 | content= }} * {{flag|Russia}} {{listing | name=Russia | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th Khoroo, Ikh Toiruu Road 59, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=massive complex on the south side of Peace Avenue, east of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 326440, +976 11 322834 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Russian embassy in Ulan Bator 2.JPG | wikidata=Q16687397 | content= }} * {{flag|South Korea}} {{listing | name=South Korea | alt= | url=http://overseas.mofa.go.kr/mn-ko/index.do | email= | address=Olympic Street 10, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=two blocks South of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 70071030, +976 11 70071020 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-18:00 | price= | wikidata=Q33309454 | lastedit=2017-07-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Turkey}} {{listing | name=Turkey | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue 5, Chingeltei District | lat= | long= | directions=west of the post office, next to the French Embassy | phone=+976 11 311200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309468 | content= }} * {{flag|United Kingdom}} {{listing | name=United Kingdom | alt= | url=https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-ulaanbaatar | email=Consular.Mongolia@fco.gov.uk | address=Unit 1-3A, Level 19 Shangri-La Offices, Olympic Street 19A, Sukhbaatar District-1 | lat=47.9128275 | long=106.9215149 | directions=north-east corner of the National Amusement Park | phone=+976 11 458133 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu Th 14:00-16:00 | price= | wikidata=Q33309476 | content= }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | alt= | url=https://mn.usembassy.gov/ | email=cons@usembassy.mn | address= | lat= | long= | directions=north of Chinggis Khaan Hotel | phone=+976 7007-6001 | tollfree= | fax=+976 7007-6174 | hours=M-F 08:30-12:30 and 13:00-17:00 | price= | wikipedia=Embassy of the United States, Ulaanbaatar | image=US Embassy in Mongolia.jpg | wikidata=Q25044768 | content= }} * {{flag|Vietnam}} {{listing | name=Vietnam | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue 47, Bayanzurkh District | lat=47.9185 | long=106.9343 | directions=just West of the Wrestling Palace | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Vietnamese embassy in Ulaanbaatar.JPG | wikidata=Q33309489 | content= }} ==Go next== Except for those just passing through on the [[Trans-Siberian Railway|Trans-Mongolian Railroad]] or transiting through Ulaanbaatar Airport, most people come to Mongolia to witness the beauty of the endless steppes and deserts of Central Asia, populated by the nomadic descendants of Genghis Khan. Ulaanbaatar is an excellent homebase to explore Mongolia with its many museums, monasteries, and cultural experiences, but don't confine yourself to UB: you can't really get to know this place without going to the countryside for at least a few days. *[[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]] — scenic, forested mountain valleys a mere three-hour bus ride from UB *[[Bogd Khan National Park]] — the world's largest equestrian statue of Genghis Khan and the ruins of a large Buddhist monastery destroyed by the communists in 1937 are the showpieces of this massive mountain park South of town *[[Karakorum]] — the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in the beautiful Orkhon River valley, a day's bus ride to the west *The [[Gobi|Gobi Desert]] — nomadic camel herders and dinosaur fossils *[[Western Mongolia]] — where the old Kazakh tradition of eagle-hunting lives on in the snow-capped Altai Mountains {{routebox| | image1=Trans-Siberian Railway icon.png | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Irkutsk]] | minorl1=[[Darkhan]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Beijing]] | minorr1=[[Sainshand]] | link1=Trans-Siberian Railway }} {{IsPartOf|Central Mongolia}} {{guidecity}} {{geo|47.92|106.92}} c4ai2e1wzzvcqykooe8d8cjq7uknan8 5090952 5090949 2025-07-10T16:33:28Z Chongkian 70395 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for Chinggis Khaan Hotel - add image 5090952 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Ulanbataar panorama banner.jpg|dotm=yes}} '''Ulaanbaatar''' ''(Улаанбаатар)'' — also '''Ulan Bator''', '''UB''', or in the local language, '''Khot''' ("the city") — is the capital and the largest city of [[Mongolia]]. With more than 1.6 million residents as of 2023, Ulaanbaatar is home to roughly half of Mongolia's population and serves as the starting point for pretty much all travel around Mongolia. Founded and established by warlords of the Mongol Empire in the 16th century, Ulaanbaatar is roughly 1,300-1,400 meters above sea level and is situated on a valley in the Tuul River. Ulaanbaatar is a modern and clean city populated with beautiful landmarks such as the Green Palace, universities such as the National University of Mongolia, fancy skyscrapers, hotels, monasteries, museums, and malls showcasing local and international brands. A number of national parks and protected areas (the [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]] being the most popular one) belong to the city. Due to its high elevation and distance from any major body of water, Ulaanbaatar has the onerous distinction of being the world's coldest capital city. Ulaanbaatar winters are notorious for being harsh, dry, and bitterly cold; winter temperatures range from -20° to -50° Celsius. ==Understand== [[image:UB downtown.jpg|thumb|400px|Downtown Ulaanbaatar in 2015]] Ulaanbaatar has many different and distinct layers. Long gone are the days when this city was just a typical, drab Soviet-bloc town in the middle of nowhere. One can witness the traditional, the Soviet, and the super-modern, all within a 5 minute walk through the city. Ulaanbaatar lies in the ''Altan Tevshiin Kundii'' (Valley of the Golden Cradle). Here the rivers Selbe and Tuul meet at the foot of the imposing Bogd Uul Mountain. In the forested and watered zone of northern Mongolia, it resides near the 2,000-year-old royal tombs of the Xiongnu, the 8th-century Turkic inscription of General Tonyukuk, and the birthplace of Genghis Khan. From the 20,000-year-old Paleolithic settlement on the Zaisan monument to the 12th century palace of the Nestorian Christian monarch Toghrul, there is a lot to learn and discover about this deep first layer of Ulaanbaatar. The second layer is the ''Urga'' or ''Örgöö'' of 1639-1778 — what would become Ulaanbaatar was established as a nomadic monastic center for the spiritual leader Zanabazar in 1639 — 230 kilometres (143 miles) southwest of today's Ulaanbaatar. The monastic center moved repeatedly and eventually settled at its present location in 1778, along a trading route between Russia and China. This mobile monastery era survives today as cultural forms (Genghisid memory, Mongolian temple architecture, wooden-fenced ger districts, Mongolian script, and Buddhism, traditional clothing, festivals, wrestling, music), and as physical artifacts kept in museums (Zanabazar masterpieces). The third layer is the late Qing dynasty Urga of 1778-1924 which can be found in surviving buildings such as the Gandan monastery. The fourth layer is the socialist period of 1924-1990 which saw the destruction of temples, the confiscation of private property, and Stalinist purges, but also the emergence of Mongolia as a modern, independent nation with Ulaanbaatar as its showcase. It was in this period that the city was named ''Ulaanbaatar khot'', literally "''Red Hero City''". The fifth layer, corresponding to the decade of the 1990s, was a stagnant period marked by poverty and bread lines which left a poor impression on the few visitors who passed through the city after its opening from communism. The newest sixth layer is the Ulaanbaatar of 2000 to the present, which saw the city over double in size to its current 1.6 million. However, while the center now has glittery skyscrapers, fashion boutiques and epic traffic jams, many poor migrants huddle in ''ger'' (yurt) districts on the outskirts of the city without basic amenities like running water and sewage. The residents of the ''ger'' districts have effectively become refugees in their own country, as the government has attempted to clamp down on rural-to-urban migration by not allowing new arrivals to register in the city, thus depriving them of the ability to access healthcare, employment and education in some instances. [[File:The private sector with yurts against the backdrop of high-rise new buildings in Ulaanbaatar.jpg|thumb|300x300px|A ''ger'' neighborhood next to a high-rise neighborhood, on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar.]] ===Orientation=== Peace Avenue (''Enkh Taivny Örgön Chölöö'') is the main street, stretching from east to west through the center with shopping and restaurants all along it. This street dates back to old Urga when it was called the ''Chölöö'' (Broad Avenue). The Chinese financed its paving in the 1950s. The street passes by the southern edge of the central square, '''Sükhbaatar Square''', which has roots in the central square of old Urga. The tourist information office is in the south flank of the town hall in the western corner of Chinggis Square. The city center is defined by the ''Ikh Toiruu'' (Great Ring Road) which has its origin in the prayer route of pilgrims circling the central temple-palace complex of Urga. Peace Avenue crosses the middle of the ring road horizontally while the southern part of the ring road is the Narnii Zam road ("Road of the Sun" built with Japanese support). South of the Narni Zam road is the affluent southern part of Ulaanbaatar with luxury apartments lining the Tuul River. Ger districts line the northern part of the city center and stretch 7 km north to the '''Dambadarjaalin Monastery''' built in 1765. North of Dambadarjaalin Monastery starts the ''Zuslan'' or summer vacation area, where charming summer houses stretch 14 km to Khandgait. Many families in Ulaanbaatar have a ''zuslan'' building (similar to Russian ''dachas'') where they spend the summer among the forests and natural scenery of the Selbe river valley. Some herding families graze their horses and cows freely in this area. The scenery gets more dramatic going east towards the Terelj area with big rock formations and wildflower valleys. Tours go past Terelj to the 1740 '''Gunjiin Sum Princess Temple''' and the '''Khagiin Khar''' lake. The southern edge of Ulaanbaatar is marked by its boundary with the town of Zuunmod on the south side of the Bogd Uul mountain. The 1778 shrine of '''Tsetsee Gun''' on the peak and the 1747 ruins of the '''Manjusri Monastery''' are on top of the mountain. South of the mountain starts an endless sea of grassland steppe gradually merging into the [[Gobi]] Desert 300 km south of UB. Day trips to the east include the '''Tsonjin Boldog Genghis Khan Statue'''. Day trips to the west include the '''Hustai Nuruu National Park''', '''Aglag Meditation Center''' and '''Ögii Lake'''. ===History=== At the time when Ulaanbaatar was founded as Urga in 1639 by Genghisid nobles, Mongolia was actually a serious contender for power in East Asia. The last Great Khan, Ligdan, had died in 1634, and the Manchu were rising in the east — but the independent Mongols had been revitalized by a Buddhist renaissance in the 1570s, and raids under Altan Khan were carried out as far afield as [[Beijing]]. A firmer union of the Western Oirats and Eastern Genghisids would have sufficed to fend off the Manchus. The 1640 Mongol-Oirat Code of Law united the East and West, but this union failed to last long. What did survive from this period was the union of the Eastern Mongols cemented in 1639 with the founding of Urga. The Mongol nobles installed one of their own, Zanabazar, the son of Tüsheet Khan Gombodorj (1594-1655) and a direct descendant of Genghis Khan, as the supreme lama of the Mongols. His residence, called '''Örgöö''' or Urga, meaning "palace-yurt", was some 250 km west of the current site of the city, near the ancient Mongol capital of [[Karakorum]]. In 1651, the first Jebtsundamba Khutughtu, Zanabazar, returned from studies in [[Tibet]] and established seven monastic departments in Urga. The mobile monastery gradually became a mobile city, moving every few years as needed. Urga was moved 25 times between its founding in 1639 and settling in its current location in 1778, by which time it had several thousand tents and temples and was served by trade routes from [[China]] and [[Russia]]. It was also estimated to have about 10,000 monks. The Gandan Monastery was established in 1809 and became the center of learning for all of Mongolia, and one of the most important monasteries in Tibetan Buddhism.[[image:Jugder 001.jpg|thumb|400px|Ulaanbaatar (Urga) in 1913]]The city continued to grow through the 19th century as a provincial capital of the Qing Empire and a center of religion and trade. Russian influence in Mongolia became significant in the late 18th century, and a two-story Russian consulate was opened in 1865 as an upgrade from the 18th century wooden quarters of the Russian representative. Mongolia was, in practice, a buffer between Russia and China, with plenty of local autonomy through the Bogd Jebtsundamba and Mongolian nobles. In 1911, the 8th Bogd Khan declared independence from China, leading to a long unstable period in the city's history including an occupation by a Chinese warlord in 1919. However, the Chinese were expelled by the [[Belarus|White Russian]] Roman von Ungern-Sternberg, aka the "Mad Baron", in 1921. This forced the Soviet Union to intervene and set up a puppet state in what was then known as Outer Mongolia. The country was nominally independent but essentially a satellite state of the USSR. In 1924, the city's name changed from Urga to Ulaanbaatar ("Red Hero"). Many of the monasteries and temples were destroyed in the religious purges of the 1930s. Following the end of the Second World War, the old ''ger'' districts were largely cleared for Soviet-style city apartments, offices, and factories. The [[Trans-Siberian Railway|Trans-Mongolian Railway]] was completed in 1956, connecting Ulaanbaatar to Beijing and [[Moscow]]. Gandan Monastery was reopened during a visit by US Vice President Henry Wallace in 1944, when he asked to see a monastery. Since the democratic revolution in 1990, the population of the city has almost tripled from 540,600 (1989) to 1.6 million (2020) - with thousands moving in from the countryside. The commercial and residential real estate sectors have boomed since 2000, though large factories have closed and much of the city still lives in the slum-like ''ger'' districts. ===Climate=== {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = -15.5 | febhigh = -9.4 | marhigh = -.2 | aprhigh = 10.4 | mayhigh = 17.8 | junhigh = 23.1 | julhigh = 25.2 | aughigh = 23.0 | sephigh = 17.2 | octhigh = 7.7 | novhigh = -4.8 | dechigh = -13.7 | janlow = -25.6 | feblow = -21.7 | marlow = -12.6 | aprlow = -3.3 | maylow = 3.5 | junlow = 10.3 | jullow = 13.5 | auglow = 11.1 | seplow = 4.1 | octlow = -4.5 | novlow = -15.1 | declow = -22.9 | janprecip = 2.1 | febprecip = 2.8 | marprecip = 4.6 | aprprecip = 8.4 | mayprecip = 21.7 | junprecip = 47.2 | julprecip = 74.5 | augprecip = 65.4 | sepprecip = 27.9 | octprecip = 8.6 | novprecip = 6.3 | decprecip = 3.5 | description = NOAA (1991-2020) }} Although summer daytime temperatures are mild and average around {{c|24}} and nights around {{C|13}}, the city shivers in sub-zero temperatures for five months of the year. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures hovering between {{c|-15}} to {{c|-30}} at night. As a result of these prolonged periods of intense cold, the city has an average annual temperature of {{c|.2}}, giving it the dubious distinction of being the world's coldest capital. The cold is dry, however, and there is not much wind chill due to temperature inversion. Heat island effect also means the city center is warmer than the outskirts. Summer can be very hot at times, with several days above {{c|31}} and warmer nights above {{c|17}}, so one should avoid heat stress and use sunscreen when necessary. The sun is up from 05:00 to 20:45 in June, and from 08:30 to 17:00 in the winter. If you have breathing problems, be aware that Ulaanbaatar has high levels of air pollution during the winter. However, away from the city, the countryside air is gorgeous. In winter, air pollution starts at 19:00, when ''ger'' district residents start burning coal for heat, and lasts till about 10:00 the next morning. It is severe in northern parts of the city close to the ''ger'' districts, but gets sparse going south from Chinggis Square and is almost absent near Zaisan, at the southern edge of the city where there are no ''ger'' districts. The air pollution lifts in early March and the city remains pollution-free (excluding car exhaust) until November. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Chinggis Khaan International Airport | alt={{IATA|UBN}}, Чингис хаан олон улсын нисэх буудал, New Ulaanbaatar International Airport | url=https://en.ulaanbaatar-airport.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.651581 | long=106.821772 | directions=52 km south of Ulaanbaatar | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chinggis Khaan International Airport | image=Chinggis Khan International Airport.jpg | wikidata=Q837745 | content=Opened in 2021, this Japanese-built airport has now taken over all domestic and international flights, replacing the old Buyant-Ukhaa Airport which also formerly known as Chinggis Khaan International Airport. }} '''[https://en.ulaanbaatar-airport.mn/bus-route Getting to the airport]''' takes about 50-100 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport buses run from 6:20 AM to midnight, but taxis and the new Ulaanbaatar Airport shuttle are more reliable. Taxis cost a steep 85,000-120,000 ₮ depending on your destination, be sure to agree on the price in advance. There are also shared taxis for 30,000MNT. The Ulaanbaatar Airport Shuttle costs 20,000 MNT - 30,000 MNT depending on the size of the shuttle. Many of the higher-end hotels will offer a shuttle service to/from the airport for a nominal fee. ===By train=== [[File:Ulaanbaatar Railway Station.jpg|thumb|Ulaanbaatar Train Station]] Direct (if long) journeys are possible from destinations between Moscow and Beijing on the Trans-Mongolian line of the [[Trans-Siberian Railway]]. Ulaanbaatar-bound trains leave Beijing once a week, on Wednesday, and seats can only be reserved at the International Hotel in Beijing, a ten-minute walk north of the main rail station. The journey takes about 30 hours. Packing a face mask is a good idea as sandstorms in the Gobi desert may cause difficulty in breathing. Shorter-haul trains also run to the Chinese border towns of [[Erlian]] and [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)|Jining]] 3-4 times a week. Ulaanbaatar's {{marker|type=go|name=train station|lat=47.90865|long=106.88395}} is on Narni Zam road, about 3 km west of the city centre. The cheapest option is the daily 18:05 departure to Zamyn Uud on the Mongolian side of the Chinese border. You can buy a connecting bus ticket from Zamyn Uud to Erlian on the Chinese side for 10000₮ in the railway office in Ulaanbaatar. After COVID-19 related suspending for 3 years, train service between China and Mongolia was restored, but only between Ulaanbaatar and [[Erenhot]]. In Moscow, trains to Ulaanbaatar depart Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays (the latter two are express runs), for a journey that lasts 100 hours or a little over 4 days. There's also a daily train to/from [[Irkutsk]], which can also be reached from [[Vladivostok]] at the eastern end of the Trans-Siberian. ===By car=== What few paved roads exist in Mongolia generally go to and from Ulaanbaatar. Thus, getting to UB from elsewhere in Mongolia on a ''paved'' road is very easy, because all you have to do is just follow the pavement. However, if you're driving one of the dirt tracks that characterize the majority of the country's road network, it pays to have a map, and if [[Offroad driving|off-roading]] is part of your itinerary, it pays to have a local guide/driver. Coming from the '''north''', the paved road starts at the Russian border at [[Sühbaatar]]. Coming from the '''south''', the paved road starts at the Chinese border at [[Zamyn-Üüd]], passing through the vast Gobi Desert along the way. Coming from the '''northeast''', the paved road starts at [[Bulgan]]. Finally, from the '''west''', the road starts in either [[Bayanhongor]] in the southwest or [[Tsetserleg]] further north. ===By bus=== [[File:New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal.jpg|thumb|New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Bus Terminal]] Once in the country, it should not be difficult to find a bus going to UB, at least from larger towns. However, bus stops are difficult to locate, with buses usually just stopping in populated areas. Furthermore, Mongolian buses are notorious for being late — in some cases by a day or more. Buses from Russia, the west, north and south usually go to Dragon Center, while those from China and the east go to Bayanzurkh bus station, just east of the Officer Monument at the east end of Peace Avenue. * {{go | name=New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal | alt=драгон | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91053 | long=106.8205 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal.jpg | content=The primary bus station for all buses going to the [[Western Mongolia|west]], [[Northern Mongolia|north]], and the Gobi. }} * {{listing | name=Botanical Gardens | alt=ботаник | type=go | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91272 | long=106.99319 | directions=1 km east of the eastern traffic circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The gardens have been completely destroyed, but the location is well known to the locals. Serves inter-city buses to [[Eastern Mongolia]]. }} * {{listing | name=Tenger Plaza | alt= | type=go | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=east of the city center, southeast of Mongolia International University and MIU bus stop | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Buses depart to various national destinations. Buses to [[Zamyn-Üüd]], the main border crossing to China, depart at 07:00 and 21:00, arriving there about 10 hours later, with some buses continuing across the border to Erlian. }} From Russia, there are also UB-bound buses from [[Ulan Ude]], leaving at 07:30 from the '''old bus station''' ''(Старый Автовокзал)'' via the Altanbulag border crossing. The trip usually takes about 12 hours, including customs processing — much faster than the train — and tickets cost {{RUB|1800}} one-way. Night buses leave on Fridays and Sundays at 19:00. Buses arrive and depart from the Dragon Bus station. Any travel agency should be able to book tickets or you can buy them at either bus station. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|47.91729|106.90815|zoom=11|width=700|height=430|layer=MP}} Street names are rarely known by Mongolians, and they usually only appear on maps and official addresses. Official addresses list the district, microdistrict (usually a large block bounded by major streets), and the building number. However, since blocks can have dozens of buildings, with more continuously being squeezed in between existing ones, addresses are not very helpful for navigation. Instead, it's best to have directions for major landmarks using lots of descriptions (i.e. "turn right at the first traffic signal west of the State Department Store"). Some major streets to know are '''Peace Avenue''', UB's main road which runs west-to-east in front of Chinggis Square; '''Chinggis Avenue''', running north-to-south on the east side of the square, then veering west toward the airport in front of Bogd Khan Winter Palace; and '''Seoul Street''', which runs west from Chinggis Avenue just south of Chinggis Square. ===By taxi=== If you stand in the street and hold out your arm, usually within seconds somebody will have stopped to pick you up. This system can be quick and reliable, especially during the cold winter, but it can cause problems as many drivers will only speak Mongolian. Taxis are cheap: the going rate is around 1000₮ per kilometer, but if you're a foreigner, they'll overcharge you and there's really no way to get around it completely. (In extreme circumstances, opportunistic younger drivers have been known to try to hold passengers or their luggage at ransom until they pay extraordinary amounts of money!) A good tip is to carry a small written note with an amount in ''tögrög'' (500₮, 1000₮, 1500₮, etc.) and show them exactly what you are willing to pay before you get on. If the driver does not seem aggressive, you can get yourself out of this situation by knowing a few local words - particularly yes, no, and any numbers. Remember, even if you pay 4000 ''tögrög'' for a journey, though this is a higher fare than a local would pay, it is still only just over $1. So use your judgement. The current price of gasoline is $5/gallon, 3710₮/litre, so you can judge whether some of these prices are realistic given market conditions. UB also now has a fleet of new white cabs with large LCD-screen fare meters on the dash. Always negotiate the fare in advance, don't be fooled by tricks like "I meant 3000₮ for each of you", and avoid random cars that offer taxi service. * {{listing | name=Help Taxi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 99652371 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=1000₮/km, minimum 4000₮, airport to city center 30,000₮ | content=Fluent English-speaking dispatch, all drivers have at least limited proficiency in English. Main taxi service for all the embassies. }} * {{listing | name=iTaxi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 77171717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=1000₮/km, airport to city center 20,000₮ | content=English-speaking dispatch, metered taxi rides, texts you when the taxi arrives to pick you up. }} * Download '''UBCab''' to order taxis quickly to your location. You do not enter the destination into the app, but simply order the cab and then instruct the driver where to go once you get in. ===By bus=== [[File:Sükhbaatar Square Parking Lot.jpg|thumb|Public bus in Ulaanbaatar]] Buses in UB come in several different varieties. At the top of the scale, regularly scheduled municipal buses operate on a widespread network that extends right to the outskirts of town, for a flat rate of 500₮. As well, there's an almost equally extensive network of '''microbuses''' charging from 300-500₮, distinguished by a person hanging out the window at each stop and shouting the name of the destination in rapid-fire Mongolian. Finally, there is also a cheaper (300₮) but slower and less extensive network of electric trolleybuses. To use the municipal and trolleybuses you need a U card, which can be purchased at many kiosks and shops for 3000₮. You load credit and touch it to the reader when entering the bus. If you touch it on the reader when getting off you can get a second ride for free if you board within 30 minutes. As in any city, be wary of pickpockets on the buses, especially when the buses are crowded. ===By foot=== Within the quite compact city center, walking is a viable option. Ulaanbaatar stretches from east to west along the aforementioned Peace Avenue, making navigating the center a cinch. Outside the center, in the ''ger'' districts, it's a different story entirely: a good city map, available at the airport or the '''Mongolian Government Map Shop''', is a must if you plan to go off the beaten path. You'll find the map shop directly on the Ikh Toiruu ring road: head west three blocks from the State Department Store, then turn right (north) at the first traffic light and proceed for about half a block. The Map Shop is behind the blue and yellow '''Elba Appliance''' store. ==See== Most tourist sites have a separate camera/video fee (typically 5000-10,000₮) in addition to the entrance fee. ===Monasteries=== [[File:Gandantegchinlen Monastery (2024).jpg|thumb|Gandantegchinlen Monastery]] [[File:Green Palace Bogd Khan 149185394 bfcc8db25b b.jpg|thumb|Bogd Khan Winter Palace]] * {{see | name=Choijin Lama Monastery | alt=Чойжин ламын сүм | url=http://www.templemuseum.mn/welcome | email=info@templemuseum.mn | address= | lat=47.91475 | long=106.91843 | directions=one block east of the National Library | phone=+976 11 32478 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-19:30 in summer, closed on Sundays and Mondays during winter | price=8000₮, students 3000₮, children 1500₮, photography fee 50,000₮ | wikipedia=Choijin Lama Temple | image=Choijin Lama Ulan Bator 149198611 958f1f4abd o.jpg | wikidata=Q2093410 | content=These five temples and five arched gates are a unique showcase of religious art and the history of Buddhism in Mongolia, a gem of 20th century Mongolian cultural heritage, and a fine example of Buddhist architecture. Choijin Lama Monastery was active until 1938, was inscribed in 1941 on the list of historical and cultural monuments, and became a museum the following year. In the main temple you'll find the sculpture of the Choijin Lama and the embalmed mummy of his teacher, as well as the great coral mask of Begtse, created under the direction of protectors using over 6,000 pieces of coral. Elsewhere in the complex, '''Yadam Temple''' and '''Amgalan Temple''' contain rare artifacts made by the famous Mongolian artist and sculptor, Zanabazar. }} * {{see | name=Gandantegchinlen Monastery | alt=Gandantegchinlen Khiid or Gandan Monastery | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92248 | long=106.89534 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=4000₮ | wikipedia=Gandantegchinlen Monastery | image=Gandantegchinlen Monastery (2024).jpg | wikidata=Q965633 | content=The main monastery in the city has services around 10:00 every morning. It is one of the few monasteries in the country that were spared during the Communist purges of the 1930s. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Bogd Khan Winter Palace Museum | alt=Богд хааны ордон музей | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.89666 | long=106.90783 | directions=about {{km|2.5}} south of Chinggis Square, on Chinggis Avenue in Khan Uul district | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00-17:00 | price=Admission 8000₮, 50,000₮ photography fee | wikipedia=Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan | image=Green Palace Bogd Khan 149185394 bfcc8db25b b.jpg | wikidata=Q1579833 | content=Built between 1893 and 1903 by Mongolian masters, this palace was dedicated to the VIII Bogd Gegeen, head of Tibetan Buddhism and Khan of Mongolia from 1911 until 1924 (the last three years of which were as a constitutional monarch). Upon his death, the palace became the first national historical museum of Mongolia. The museum contains twelve collections showcasing valuable objects and works of art from the 17th to early 20th centuries (notable among which are gilded bronze sculptures by the first Bogd Javzundamba Zanabazar and his school, 19th- and 20th century ''thangka'' paintings, a ''Jugder'' painting of Ulaanbaatar in 1912, and works by modern Mongolian painter B. Sharav), as well as personal possessions of the Khan and his wife, Queen Dondogdulam.. }} * {{see | name=Chinggis Khaan National Museum | alt=Чингис хаан Үндэсний музей | url=https://chinggismuseum.com/en | email=info@chinggismuseum.org | address=J. Sambuu's street, 4th khoroo, Chingeltei District | lat=47.922528 | long=106.914917 | directions=a short distance north of the parliament building | phone=+976 70212222 | tollfree= | hours=09:00-17:00, closed on Mondays during the winter period (1 October to 15 May) | price=Adult 30000₮, families 20000₮, students 15000₮, children 0₮, photo shooting 20000₮ | wikidata=Q120021719 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=International Intellectual Museum | alt=IQ Museum | url=http://www.iqmuseum.mn | email=mitgel@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91746 | long=106.94172 | directions=on Peace Avenue in Bayanzürkh district, in front of East Center | phone=+976 11 461470 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-18:00 | price=Admission for non Mongolians 15.000₮, children 500₮ | wikipedia=International Intellectual Museum | image=International Intellectual Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q10926251 | lastedit=2024-12-05 | content=This museum not only displays but also manufactures and exports a wide variety of traditional Mongolian puzzle toys, logic games, handcrafted products, and souvenirs, and has launched over 80 international exhibitions and fairs in 50 countries. }} * {{see | name=Natural History Museum | alt=Байгалийн түүхийн музей | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.9233 | long=106.9059 | directions=Freedom Square, next to Tengis Cinema and directly behind State Department Store; at the site of the former Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs | phone=+976 7000 0171 | tollfree= | hours=Tu–Su 10:00-18:00 (closed Monday) | price=Admission 2000₮ | wikipedia=Mongolian Natural History Museum | image=Natural History Museum (Ulaanbaatar).jpg | wikidata=Q2154359 | content=The complete fossil of the ''Tarbosaurus bataar'' — a close cousin of the larger T. Rex that serves as the centerpiece of this museum's impressive collection — was stolen from Mongolia by American archaeologist Eric Prokopi and auctioned in [[New York City|New York]] for $1 million. The ensuing news coverage set off an international criminal case resulting in Prokopi's arrest and the return of dozens of dinosaur fossils to Mongolia by the U.S. government, which make up the bulk of this museum's collection. In the former '''Lenin Museum''' on Freedom Square, the museum contains a couple dozen other complete dinosaur fossils besides the ''Tarbosaurus'', all of which were found in the Gobi Desert. }} * {{see | name=National Museum of Mongolia | alt=Монголын Үндэсний музей | url=http://nationalmuseum.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.92036 | long=106.91538 | directions=just west of the Government House | phone=+976 70110911, +976 70110913 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 08:00-22:00, last entry 20:30 | price=Admission 5000₮, photography fee 5000₮ | wikipedia=National Museum of Mongolia | image=National Museum of Mongolia (2023).jpg | wikidata=Q2154176 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=This is the main museum in the capital and should be a first stop on any visit to the city, as it holds the most important artifacts of Mongolia's rich history dating back several thousand years. These include ethnographic displays of various Mongolian tribes, petroglyphs and cave drawings, Turkic monuments, weapons, armor, and various displays from the various eras of Mongolian history: the Hun and Mongol Empires, Chinese rule, the Communist era, and the democratic revolution of 1990. There are displays of self-portraits and personal possessions of Genghis Khan and other great khans of the Mongol Empire. Most displays are in English and Mongolian... }} * {{see | name=Marshall Zhukov House Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.917972 | long=106.953 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19615122 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ulaanbaatar City Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.91806 | long=106.93583 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ulaanbaatar City Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q2368924 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=A museum established from a building built by a Soviet merchant. It used to house the embassy of the Tuvan People's Republic and a printing house. }} ===Art museums and galleries=== [[File:Akshobhya by Zanabazar.jpg|thumb|Akshobhya by Zanabazar, in the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts]] * {{see | name=National Art Gallery of Mongolia | alt= | url=http://www.art-gallery.mn/mn | email=info@art-gallery.mn | address= | lat=47.91961 | long=106.92109 | directions=at the Central Cultural Palace on Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 327177 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-18:00 | price=Admission 2000₮, students 1000₮, children 500₮ | wikipedia=National Art Gallery of Mongolia | image=National Art Gallery of Mongolia.jpg | wikidata=Q17034485 | content=A surprisingly good modern art museum that displays the vibrancy of the local art scene. There are temporary exhibits throughout the year as well as a permanent collection. }} * {{see | name=The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum | alt=Занабазарын нэрэмжит Дүрслэх урлагийн музей | url=http://www.zanabazarmuseum.mn/ | email=info@zanabazarfam.mn | address= | lat=47.92013 | long=106.90911 | directions=two blocks west of the Government House, on Barilgachdin Square | phone=+976 11 326060 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-17:00 (summer), 10:00-17:00 (winter) | price=Admission 5000₮ | image=The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q2370206 | content=The collection includes items from the Stone Age to the 20th century. Particularly interesting is the collection of Buddhist art from the 17th century and later.. }} * {{see | name=Mongolian Art Center for Children's Creativity | alt=Монголын хүүхдийн урлан бүтээх төв | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.926788 | long=106.916114 | directions=Ankara Street | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mongol Art Gallery | alt=Монгол Арт Галерейн | url= | email= | address=Dunjingarav Street | lat=47.904528 | long=106.948806 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q123347067 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Russian Science and Culture Center | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tokyo Street | lat=47.92625 | long=106.935278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Russian Science and Culture Center.jpg | wikidata=Q130382522 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Art House Center | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/arthouse.mongolia/ | email=arthousemn@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.920312 | long=106.907411 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-15 | content= }} ===Monuments and memorials=== [[File:Monumento ruso en Ulan Bator, Mongolia.jpg|thumb|Zaisan War Memorial]] * {{see | name=Sükhbaatar Square | alt=Сүхбаатарын талбай | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91898 | long=106.91777 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chinggis Square | image=Panorama Ulan Bator 13.JPG | wikidata=Q1348864 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=The big open space in the center of the city with an equestrian '''statue of Damdin Sükhbaatar''', warrior-hero of the 1921 People's Revolution, as well as a seated statue of Genghis Khan that sits at the door of the '''Government House'''. Inside the Government House is a small museum with artifacts from the Mongol Empire and a reproduction of Genghis Khan's White Peace Banners of State (the Soviets had the originals destroyed in the 1930s)... }} * {{see | name=Zaisan Memorial | alt=Зайсан толгой | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.885 | long=106.91564 | directions=about 3½ km directly south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Zaisan Memorial | image=World War II in Ulaanbaatar (6228546502).jpg | wikidata=Q144444 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=A huge Communist-era monument on a hill near the city depicting the Russian and Mongolian heroes who fought together during the First and Second World Wars. Nowadays it is a popular viewpoint where you can see over the whole city. There's also a huge Buddhist statue at the bottom. }} * {{see | name=Friendship Railways Height | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.909418 | long=106.883918 | directions=Right across the road in front of Ulaanbaatar Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Friendship Railways Height.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} Despite news about the removal of Lenin's statue, Ulaanbaatar still boasts a wealth of other interesting statues and public art beyond what's mentioned above. Prominently, former Communist leaders Choibalsan and Tsedenbal are memorialized north of the Government House, as is Sanjaasürengiin Zorig, leader of the 1990 democratic revolution, at a location southwest of Chinggis Square. There are also many lesser-known statues scattered through the city: there's a bust of Stalin inside a beer garden south of Chinggis Square, some old Soviet murals on the side of apartment buildings north of the Bogd Khan Winter Palace, and you'll even see The Beatles and the villain from the movie ''Predator'' holding court in front of the State Department Store and in front of a small office building 100 m northeast of there, respectively. ===Sport venues=== * {{see | name=AIC Steppe Arena | alt= | url=https://steppearena.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.847555 | long=106.793059 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65066205 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Buyant Ukhaa Sport Palace | alt= | url=http://www.sport.gov.mn/ | email= | address=Ulziit Road | lat=47.85444 | long=106.78417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4155958 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=UG Arena | alt= | url=https://ugarena.mn/ | email=marketing@urangan.mn | address= | lat=47.904667 | long=106.899266 | directions= | phone= +976 77712111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ===Parks, gardens and nature=== * {{see | name=National Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bayanzürkh | lat=47.898528 | long=106.947667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q131416188 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ulaanbaatar Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=corner of Narnii Road and Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.909162 | long=106.916782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ulaanbaatar Park.jpg | wikidata=Q131424861 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Yavuuhulan Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address=Noyon Hutagt Danzanravjaa Street | lat=47.918333 | long=106.909111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q131424582 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Korea-Mongolia Friendship Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dambadarjaa Street, Sükhbaatar | lat=47.984333 | long=106.949694 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Korea-Mongolia Friendship Forest | wikidata=Q131424610 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Amgalan Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.910082 | long=107.000472 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Günjiin Nüden Lake | alt=Гүнжийн Нүдэн Нуур | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.949191 | long=106.838245 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Do== ===Outdoors=== *'''Bogd Uul''', the mountain ridge south of town, is a great place for a hike. To get there, take the #7, #33 or #43 bus from in front of the Bayangol Hotel to the south end of the line. From there, the road continues south about 100 m, whereupon you'll come to a checkpoint. Proceed, bear left when the road forks, and you'll soon find yourself in a ''ger'' camp with a small stream flowing north. This is where the hiking path itself begins, on the left (east) side of the stream. At the top of the ridge, veer west and proceed through the woods for an easy amble of about two or three hours (you'll come to a high point about 500 m past the turn). At the end of that stretch, you have the option of either branching off to the west or else continuing straight and slightly east to Bogd Uul Mountain (this path is marked with orange paint marks on the trees). That part of the trip is quite long — about 10 km one-way — and more challenging, with varying elevations. *{{do | name=Sky Resort | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/skyresortofficial/ | email=info@skyresort.mn | address= | lat=47.8728 | long=107.04537 | directions=13 km from city center. Go south to Zaisan, then east along the river past the President's Residence | phone=+976 11 320345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=07:00-22:00 | price=Under US$20 | wikipedia=Sky Resort | wikidata=Q7537479 | content=A winter sports resort offering downhill skiing, snowboarding, lifts, equipment rental, ski and snowboard school, and an onsite restaurant. There's a free bus from the Drama Center (next to the Grand Khan Irish Pub) with departures between 08:00 and 19:30 (frequent service on weekends, more sporadic midweek; check schedule to verify bus times). }} [[Image:Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Naadam Festival in July]] ===Festivals=== * {{do | name=Naadam | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Sports Stadium (Mongolia) | image=Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg | wikidata=Q1451543 | content=The largest and most famous festival in Mongolia, Naadam is held annually from July 11-13 and consists of competitions in the three traditional Mongolian sports of wrestling, horse-racing and archery. The {{marker|type=do|name=National Sports Stadium|lat=47.90258|long=106.91538}}, besides being the main venue for the festival, also serves as the country's main football and baseball stadium as well as a venue for occasional concerts and cultural events. }} * {{do | name=Playtime Festival | alt= | url=https://playtimefestival.com/home_eng | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q121432894 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Mongolia's largest annual outdoor music festival. }} ===Theatre and performance=== * {{do | name=National Academic Drama Theater | alt=Улсын драмын эрдмийн театр | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91507 | long=106.91473 | directions=in the red Georgian building just south of the Post Office on Chinggis Avenue | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Prices vary, generally cheap for Mongolian-language performances | wikipedia=Mongolian State Academic Drama Theatre | image=State Academic Drama Theater.jpg | wikidata=Q6899648 | content=Mostly presents Mongolian plays in drama, musicals, or children's performances. Tickets are sold at the "KACC" office in front.... }} * {{do | name=ASA Arena | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91206 | long=106.90776 | directions=on Seoul Street south of the State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=ASA Arena | image=ASA Arena.jpg | wikidata=Q56284752 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Home to the world-famous Mongolian contortionists, where most of the world's professional contortionists get their start. The circus also features animals, jugglers, and other entertainment. }} * {{do | name=State Opera and Ballet Theater | alt=National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Mongolia | url=http://www.opera-ballet.mn | email=opera_ballet@yahoo.com | address=Chinggis Square | lat=47.91843 | long=106.91924 | directions=in the pinkish building on the southeast side of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Box office W-Su 10:00-13:00, 14:00-17:00 | price=Prices vary by performance, local productions can be very inexpensive | wikipedia=Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet | image=Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet.jpg | wikidata=Q559620 | content=While visiting Chinggis Square, it may be worthwhile to check out the board in front of this theatre to see if there is an upcoming performance. Most performances are at 17:00 Saturday and Sunday. Local performances may not be great, but are very cheap. Ballet troupes and opera companies from Russia also occasionally visit.. }} * {{do | name=Tumen Ekh | alt= | url=https://tumen-ekh.mn/ | email=info@tumen-ekh.mn | address= | lat=47.91277 | long=106.91609 | directions=south of the Main Square, west of Shangri-La hotel, in the Children's Palace | phone=+976 11 322238 | tollfree= | hours=Daily performances from May-Oct at 18:00, on weekdays in Oct-Nov 15th | price=30,000₮ | lastedit=2023-08-28 | content=A traditional dance ensemble founded in 1989 that performs dances, music and religious ceremonies for audiences of mostly foreign tourists. Performances last about an hour and are far from the usual tourist schlock: these very skilled artists take their work seriously and have been on tour in the U.S., UK and other countries. }} * {{do | name=Mongolian Theatre Museum | alt= | url=https://mongoliantheatremuseum.com/ | email= | address=Amar St | lat=47.9199 | long=106.9195 | directions=on the 3rd floor of the Central Cultural Palace Building | phone=+976 11 31 1320 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6899660 | lastedit=2023-12-19 | content=A performing arts museum founded in 1991 presenting the history of Mongolian film and theatre.. }} * {{do | name=Wrestling Palace | alt=Bökhiin Örgöö | url= | email= | address=Bayanzürkh | lat=47.917917 | long=106.935278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bökhiin Örgöö | image=Wrestling Palace.jpg | wikidata=Q2154011 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=Sports complex that is home to the Mongolian wrestling competitions and also hosts music concerts. }} * {{do | name=Ganzam Palace | alt=Ганзам палас | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.915134 | long=106.885202 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ganzam Palace.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{do | name=HUN Theater | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/HUNTheatre/ | email=info.huntheatre@gmail.com | address=Sky Resort Road | lat=47.879228 | long=107.042646 | directions= | phone=+976 77774488 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{do | name=Youth Theater | alt= | url=http://youththeatre.mn/ | email=info@youththeatre.mn | address= | lat=47.936977 | long=106.813443 | directions= | phone=+97675991133 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ===Miscellaneous=== * Get an inexpensive '''massage''' at one of the many massage spas on Peace Avenue. * {{do | name=National Amusement Park | alt=Үндэсний соёл амралтын хүрээлэн | url=https://www.facebook.com/park.mongolia | email= | address= | lat=47.90842 | long=106.9237 | directions=500 m south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:00-19:00 year round | price=1000₮ to enter plus extra for each ride | image=Mongolian National Amusement Park Castle.JPG | wikidata=Q110014267 | content=Open since 1969, the park today features a steel roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, a castle surround by an artificial lake, and bowling. }} ==Learn== The {{marker|type=listing|name=[http://mongoliacenter.org/ American Center for Mongolian Studies]|lat=47.91964|long=106.90870|zoom=18}} (ACMS) provides in-depth insight via an academic approach into Mongolian culture. The center has a study room and library of Mongolia-related material, with Internet access. It is on the campus of the '''Mongolian National University''', on the third floor of Building #5. As well, there are several '''Mongolian-language schools''' throughout the city. On Facebook look for various learning clubs or English-learning local clubs offering local meetups and you may attend some of them to learn local culture or to participate in interesting local activities. ==Buy== [[File:Socialist architecture (6216616617).jpg|thumb|Post-WWII architecture in the city center]] Cash is becoming less and less common, with many shops, eateries, and even street vendors and taxi drivers accepting bank transfer (using SMS or banking apps), QR code payment (multiple systems in use), and debit/credit cards. As a visitor, have cash and a paywave-enabled card. It's relatively easy to find an ATM to withdraw cash. Most ATMs accept foreign credit and debit cards to withdraw ''tögrög'' (the local currency) as long as you have informed your bank ahead of time as to your Mongolian travel plans; most will charge you a foreign currency conversion fee of about 3%. Besides Visa, other card types are also accepted, but not as widely: for example, the machines in the Central Post Office and along the main street will not accept foreign MasterCards, although they bear the logo. The only ATM that accepts Cirrus cards is the one at the airport. UB also has many banks and exchange offices where ''tögrög'' can be obtained. Golomt and TDB are the most reliable banks for currency exchange, the former of which can give up to US$500 per day cash advance on MasterCard and Visa and also accepts American Express. Exchange offices can mainly be found along Peace Avenue in the city center, including one on the ground floor of the '''State Department Store'''. However, you'll find better rates at the one on the second floor of the '''Flower Center''', on Peace Avenue one block west of the Post Office. Lastly, major hotels like the '''Ulaanbaatar Hotel''' will exchange money 24/7 at the reception, which may be your only option if you arrive very late in the day. Keep in mind that you'll need a form of ID to exchange foreign currency - a passport will do. See [[Mongolia#Money]] for exchange rates for the ''tögrög''. ===Major shopping centers=== * {{buy | name=State Department Store | alt=Улсын Их Дэлгүүр | url=https://www.facebook.com/UlsiinIkhDelguur | email= | address= | lat=47.917028 | long=106.90625 | directions=west of Chinggis Square on Peace Avenue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-22:00 | price= | wikidata=Q125944026 | content=Formerly a state-owned department store (hence the name), today it is the busiest luxury shopping mall in the city, with everything from groceries to cashmere to TVs sold on all six floors of the building. Though privately owned nowadays, the customer service still has a certain impersonal, bureaucratic feel. Check out the fifth floor for the largest souvenir shops in UB. }} * {{buy | name=3rd & 4th Microdistrict | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92285 | long=106.88144 | directions=northwest side of Gandan, 2 km north of the train station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=You'll find several malls, name-brand stores, restaurants, supermarkets, curbside booths, and a movie theater at UB's largest shopping district. Selection ranges from luxury brands down to cheap Chinese imports. Traffic congestion is heavy in this part of the city. }} * {{buy | name=Emart Department stores | alt=Emart | url= | email= | address= | lat=47 | long=106 | directions=at the north of Chingis Khaan hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-10-15 | image=Ulaanbaatar (22933227425).jpg | content=This subsidiary of the South Korean retailer has three department stores in Ulaanbaatar that offer mostly South Korean and some domestic goods. It has a good groceries department as well. The first store is just north of Chingis Khaan Hotel, the second is in Bayangol district, and the third is in Khan Uul district. }} * {{buy | name=Galleria Ulaanbaatar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/GalleriaUlaanbaatar | email= | address=Ikh Surguuli Street | lat=47.920583 | long=106.919111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130259098 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Gegeenten Entertainment Center | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaisan Street | lat=47.897099 | long=106.908772 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Gegeenten Entertainment Center.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Hunnu Mall | alt=Хүннү Молл | url=https://hunnumall.mn/ | email=info@hunnumall.mn | address=Naadamchid Road | lat=47.878675 | long=106.851142 | directions= | phone=+976 77112222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ===Markets=== [[File:Khar Zakh (Black Market), Ulan Bator, Mongolia.jpg|thumb|Items for sale at the Naran Tuul (Black Market)]] * {{buy | name=Narantuul Market | alt=Black Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.90814 | long=106.94645 | directions=3 km east of the children's park on Narni Zam road | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Closed on Monday | price= | wikipedia=Narantuul Market | image=Narantuul Market.jpg | wikidata=Q130051111 | content=The main market for most of the city's residents, Naran Tuul is the place to go to shop like a local. Haggle over cheap clothes, toys, fur hats, vintage Soviet propaganda pins, or anything you can imagine in a vast, partially indoor retail emporium a 10-minute bus or taxi ride from the city center. There are also several slightly more upscale shopping centers just west of the market. Only take a minimum of cash with you in a money belt or inner jacket pocket and leave all valuables at your accommodation, as pickpockets are common here. }} ===Souvenir shops=== Ulaanbaatar has a host of souvenir shops aimed at both Western and East Asian tourists, mostly along Peace Avenue west of Chinggis Square. Traditional clothes, boots and hats, cashmere garments, jewelry, leather wall hangings, miniature ''gers'', bow-and-arrow sets, and paintings are among the typical inventory. While the quality of the goods varies, prices are usually high. * {{buy | name=Flower Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91691 | long=106.91218 | directions=corner of Peace Avenue and Ikh Toiruu ring road, west of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the larger souvenir shops in the city; a broad selection, but a bit pricey. There is a money exchange center on the second floor. }} * {{buy | name=Mary & Martha | alt= | url=http://www.mmmongolia.com/ | email=info.mmmongolia@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91739 | long=106.91011 | directions=north of the State Department Store bus stop, look for the signs | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small free-trade shop full of beautiful handmade souvenirs, handbags, and wall hangings. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Librairie Papillon | url=https://www.facebook.com/librairie.papillon/ | email= | address= | lat=47.9224 | long=106.9179 | directions=on University Avenue, just past the main Mongolian National University building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers high-quality English-language books about Mongolia, resources for learning the Mongolian language, and a selection of classic literature to read on your journey. The atmosphere feels like taking a little break from Mongolia and entering [[France]]. }} * {{buy | name=Mike's Bookstore | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/Books-in-English-316361135178963/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91585 | long=106.9051 | directions=south of the Bayangol Hotel, west of the New Building | phone=+976 9903 6703 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used books are bought and sold here. There's even a buyback policy. Selection is mostly but not exclusively English-language. }} ===Miscellaneous=== * {{buy | name=Seven Summits Outdoor Shop | alt= | url=http://sevensummits-shop.com | email=maira@activemongolia.com | address= | lat=47.916263 | long=106.915070 | directions=on Peace Avenue 50 m west of Chinggis Square, in a row of shops on the south side of the street | phone=+976 11 329456 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-09 | content=If you're looking for gear you can't find elsewhere, ''e.g.'' an adaptor for a screw-on stove to use the ubiquitous clip-on cylinders, since screw-on types seem to be unavailable anywhere, Seven Summits is your place. They're a bit on the pricey side, though. }} ==Eat== Ulaanbaatar has a good range of options serving Mongolian, Asian (particularly Korean and Chinese), and Western cuisine — and at decent prices. For instance, you can get perfectly good pizza for 5000₮, and even a night out at a fancy French cafe shouldn't pass 30,000₮. Consider splurging on a couple of good meals here, especially if you're headed for a long trek into the country where fresh vegetables and the like are often hard to come by and prohibitively expensive. Best of all, UB's rapidly growing wealth has meant a steady procession of ever newer, ever higher-quality restaurants, as well as the appearance of international chains like '''KFC''', '''Round Table Pizza''', and '''Cinnabon'''. === Vegan === Mongolia's Buddhist history means that vegan and vegetarian restaurants are plentiful, and quality is high. Traditional Mongolian foods like ''buuz'' (steamed dumplings) and ''khushuur'' (fried dumplings) have vegan versions available at vegan restaurants; if you have dietary restrictions, you won't have to miss out on traditional food. '''In the city centre around the Sukhbaatar Square''' * {{eat | name=Luna Blanca | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/LunaBlancaRestaurant/ | email=luna@lunablanca.org | address= | lat=47.91981 | long=106.91393 | directions=across the street from and just west of the National Museum near Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 9907-7885 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 11:00-20:00, Sa-Su 12:00-20:00 | price=Around 4000₮ (Feb 2018) | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Good-quality vegan food. Attached to a Buddhist meditation centre, therefore short opening hours (closes around 9pm).<br />If you're looking to self-cater they also sell a modest selection of groceries including vegan sausages. }} * {{eat | name=Vegan House Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=south-east corner of the intersection of Ikh Toiruu and Seoul St | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Numerous vegan options including very good buuz. }} * {{eat | name=Loving Hut - Barilgachdyn Talbai | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=across the street and slightly west from Zanabazar Museum | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=The best of several Loving Huts scattered across UB. }} * {{eat | name=Agnista Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in a small business center in the middle of a city block just West of the Parliament Building | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Wide variety of Mongolian and Western food, as well as frozen buuz that you can bring home. }} * {{eat | name=Agnista Vegan Food | alt= | url= | email= | address=706 Seoul St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Similar to the other Agnista but with less of a crowd during lunchtime. }} * {{eat | name=Bosco Verde | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=beside ASA Arena | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Italian vegetarian restaurant }} ===Budget=== [[File:Mongolian Street Food.jpg|thumb|Mongolian street food]] Throughout Ulaanbaatar are many small canteens ''(Гуанз)'' and coffeeshops ''(Цайны Газар)''. Try one of these for cheap Mongolian food. ''Buuz'' usually costs 400-600₮. As well, most universities (particularly the '''Mongolian National University''' and the '''Mongolian University of Science and Technology''') have good cheap cafeterias with meals from 1800₮ to about 2500₮. '''[https://www.khaanbuuz.mn/ Khaan Buuz]''' (Хаан Бууз) serves up set meals of Mongolian favorites (buuz is a Mongolian meat dumpling) from 5000₮, just look for the lime green facades. '''CU''' and '''GS25''' are ubiquitous Korean-style convenience stores that offer good cheap fast food and eating space at their stores; prices range from 2000-8500₮. Be circumspect of frozen foods, check for freezer burn, and products tainted from power failures and spoilage. ====Around the State Department Store==== * {{eat | name=Joe's Corner Burgers | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91826 | long=106.90632 | directions=tucked between the apartment buildings behind the State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Stops serving around 21:00 | price=4000-5500₮ | lastedit= | content=Burgers and hot dogs, with fries: probably the best value in UB for this kind of American fare. }} ====East Ulaanbaatar near the International Intellectual Museum==== * {{eat | name=Papa Cafe | alt= | url= | email=papacafe2010@gmail.com | address=Их Монгол Улсын гудамж | lat=47.91908 | long=106.93987 | directions=second building east from the British Embassy on Peace Avenue, next to a parking lot, on the second floor | phone=+976 11 461687 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-21:00, Sa 09:00-21:00 | price=4000-7000₮ | lastedit= | content=Burgers, chicken burgers, espresso and baked goods. On Saturday they open at 09:00 and serve a breakfast special of one large waffle with fresh fruit, ice cream, bacon, Mongolian blueberry jam and syrup, plus coffee and other drinks. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{eat | name=Chinggis Club | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92653 | long=106.91445 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00-24:00 | price=US$10 | content=The '''Chinggis Brewery'''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s in-house restaurant, serving German cuisine and (of course) their own locally brewed light and dark beers on tap. }} * {{eat | name=Hishig Mongol Zoog | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91300 | long=106.86367 | directions=on Peace Avenue several kilometers west of the State Department Store, near the third hospital | phone=+976 7017 8158 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$6-10 | content=If you want to experience authentic Mongolian cuisine, this is the place. Serves roasted sheep head, roasted ribs, ''buuz'', and dried meat soup. No foreign-language menu or staff, though. }} *{{eat | name=Millie's Espresso | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Millies-Espresso-195142818141/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91433 | long=106.9179 | directions=on the west side of the Choijin Lama Monastery | phone=+976 11 33 0338 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-20:00 | price=US$10 | content=Good selection of American-style coffeeshop fare, including some vegetarian options. Free Wi-Fi. }} *{{eat | name=Nayra Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nayra-Cafe/184137758298553 | email= | address= | lat=47.91991 | long=106.90754 | directions=two blocks west of the Government House | phone= +976 11 31 7098 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=opens 08:00 | price=Most under 8000₮ | content=Good pizza, sandwiches, and coffee. Free WiFi. }} * {{eat | name=Venus Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92617 | long=106.91010 | directions=two blocks east and then three blocks north of the State Department Store, on the left a few doors past the French Bakery | phone=+976 1327496 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=lunch, dinner | price=US$10 for dinner, lunch set menu US$5 | content=Malaysian specialties including masala, roti, and spicy curries. }} * {{eat | name=Modern Nomads | alt=several restaurants in town | url=http://www.modernnomads.mn/index.php?r=1&lang=en | email= | address= | lat=47.9138 | long=106.9218 | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent variety and quality for both locals and tourists. Good, clean toilets are an added bonus. |lastedit=2018-02-28}} * {{eat | name=Hurrem Sultan Turkish Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.904976 | long=106.911325 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Hurrem Sultan Turkish Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Turkish restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Pakistani & Indian Cuisine | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Halalfoodrestaurantmn | email= | address=Baruun Selbe Street | lat=47.918296 | long=106.907029 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pakistani & Indian Cuisine.jpg | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Halal Indian Pakistani restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.904049 | long=106.911058 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Indian restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Lanzhou Beef Noodles | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.905213 | long=106.911432 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Lanzhou Beef Noodles (Khan Uul, Ulaanbaatar).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Chinese restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Lale Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mongolian National University, L. Enebish Avenue | lat=47.925556 | long=106.892034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Lale Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal restaurant, part of the Mongolian National University }} ===Splurge=== It's hard to spend outrageous sums of money eating out in Ulaanbaatar: the most expensive meals in the city will be around 60,000₮ a person. That is, unless you're drinking: whiskey or any other non-vodka liquors can be a bit pricey. * '''Caucasia:''' Just behind the circus. Serving Armenian and Georgian cuisine. Excellent quality. * '''Chojin''': In front of the Chojin Lama Museum on the ground floor of an office building. Serves a small but excellent selection of Mediterranean dishes. Very popular business dinner location for the locals. Reservation recommended. * '''Hana Japanese Restaurant'''. On Chinggis Avenue next to the National Library, on the first floor of an office building. Impossible to spot from the outside, just go in and ask at the reception. You get advised to follow a fire security stairway up. Despite the non-glamorous arrival, the Hana is a high-end Japanese restaurant. Elegant atmosphere. Excellent Japanese dishes including udon soups, sushi and barbecue. Meals up to 30.000 T. Including starters and drinks, be prepared to spend 50.000-60.000 T. * {{eat | name=California Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91296 | long=106.90093 | directions=on Seoul Street, west of the circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=10,000-30,000₮ per meal | content=Extensive menu of both foreign and Mongolian specialties. Beautifully decorated, high-quality food including vegetarian specialties (good tofu!) It's a bit small, but in the summer there is additional outside seating. Reservations are advised. }} * {{eat | name=Hazara North Indian Restaurant | alt= | url=http://hazara.mn | email=hazaraub@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91728 | long=106.93516 | directions=behind the Wrestling Palace | phone=+976 99195007, +976 11 480214 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From 10,000&nbsp;₮ | content=Serving spicy North Indian, Kashmiri, and Afghani food since 1997. Food is all halal, with vegan options available. Well-decorated restaurant and costumed waitresses can make you think you are in [[Delhi]] instead of Mongolia. }} * {{eat | name=Los Bandidos | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92601 | long=106.91809 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road, not far north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 1131 4167 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$7-10 | content=Mexican-Indian fusion: don't knock it until you taste the spicy chicken masala or crispy ''taquitos''. The prices are higher now than they used to be, but the atmosphere has improved along with it. }} * {{eat | name=Namaste Indian Restaurant | alt= | url=http://namaste.mn/ | email=namaste.ub@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.92419 | long=106.93752 | directions=at the Flower Hotel | phone=+976 99270957 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=20,000₮ | content=Mongolia's first halal-certified restaurant, serves some of the best Indian food in the city. There is another location on the Outer Ring Road in the Impex building. }} *{{eat | name=Turning Point Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91500 | long=106.90708 | directions=on Tserendorj Street, three blocks west of Chinggis Square via Peace Avenue and then half a block south | phone=+976 7011 9940 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Sandwiches for 12,000₮ | content=Jazz-themed restaurant and bar featuring modern decor, international cuisine, and a wide range of beer, wine and cocktails. Regular live entertainment. }} ===Grocery stores=== * {{eat | name=Good Price Supermarket | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91293 | long=106.90070 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-22:00 | price= | content=Catering to expats and well-heeled locals, Good Price is Mongolia's most reliable source of luxuries such as peanut butter, breakfast cereals, canned beans, and cheese. But don't be fooled by the place's astoundingly inaccurate name: these luxuries come at a much higher cost than at any other supermarket in the country. }} * {{eat | name=Mercury Food Market | alt=Chinese Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91206 | long=106.90377 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Closed on Mondays | price= | content=This small market in the city center is one of the best places to get imported fruits, vegetables, and packaged goods. }} * {{eat | name=eMart | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.923129 | long=106.934337 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The eMart store at the Chingis Khaan hotel is a subsidiary of the South Korean grocery chain that sells medium- to good-quality groceries, especially good vegetables and fruits. The second branch is at the Urgoo cinema in Bayangol district and the third branch is at Zaisan. The second floor is consumer goods and the first floor is grocery. }} * {{eat | name=eMart 2nd branch | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.922927 | long=106.867317 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The eMart store is a subsidiary of the South Korean grocery chain that sells medium- to good-quality of groceries, especially good vegetables and fruits. The second branch is at the Urgoo cinema in Bayangol district and the third branch is at Zaisan. The second floor is consumer goods and first floor is grocery. }} * {{eat | name=State Department Store | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.916721 | long=106.906278 | directions=West of Sukhbaatar Square on Peace Avenue, this 6-floor building has its English name prominently displayed. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The State Department Store is the main store of Nomin food chain stores. Groceries are on the first floor. There are a book shop and souvenir shops on the fifth floor. In the intermediate floors clothing, electronics, and house accessories are available. Food items can be returned within 24 hours and other non-food items can be returned within few weeks or months depending on the type of merchandise. The receipt must be presented. }} ==Drink== === Bars === Nightlife in Ulaanbaatar is surprisingly wild, especially on Wednesday, Saturday, and (above all) Friday nights, when finding a seat is nearly impossible. If you like raving the night away to trance, techno, electronica, and house music, this is the scene for you. Beer in clubs costs about 3500₮, while other drinks such as vodka are sold by quantity: for example a 100g vodka costs about 4500₮. According to state law, all clubs and pubs (bars) must stop serving alcohol after midnight and close at 03:00, but some clubs stay open (and continue serving!) until 04:00. On the other hand, the prohibition against serving alcohol on the 1st of each month is universally adhered to, even if it falls on a weekend. Especially after dark, and especially on the aforementioned three busiest days of the week, it's best to go out clubbing in groups rather than alone: not only will you be less likely to run afoul of shady characters, but authorities take a hard line against public intoxication, and the Mongolian drunk tank is not a pleasant place to be. As well, the clubs in the 3rd district and the Sansar microdistrict are best avoided. Be sure to apologize if you hit someone or step on their feet accidentally, because this is a rather considerable breach of local etiquette. If you step on someone's feet accidentally, offer to shake their hand. This is Mongolian custom, and will also win you praise and respect amongst locals. *{{drink | name=Ambrosia Restaurant | url=https://www.facebook.com/ambrosiaeventhall/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91343 | long=106.91548 | directions=across Chinggis Avenue from KFC, south of the Post Office | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=3000₮ for a beer | content=A nice little restaurant that turns into a club at night, with good drink specials. Popular with foreigners. }} *{{drink | name=Ikh Mongol | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91322 | long=106.90792 | directions=next to the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=3500₮ a half-liter and up | content=Patrons of this brewpub can choose between the main dining area, the fancy VIP upstairs, or secluded tables in the back. Most weekends have concerts from Mongolian bands. In addition to the house brews served on tap, the more popular Mongolian brands are served. }} *{{drink | name=Mass | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mass-Night-Club/263191093695809 | email= | address= | lat=47.91953 | long=106.87466 | directions=in the 3rd/4th microdistrict | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the aforementioned clubs that likes to stay open illicitly past 03:00. Caters to a younger clientele. }} *{{drink | name=Strings | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Strings/208178542535499 | email= | address= | lat=47.91827 | long=106.88992 | directions=in the White House Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A somewhat notorious club frequented by foreigners as well as Asian businessmen. }} If clubbing isn't your thing, UB also has its share of more sedate pubs to choose from. *{{drink | name=Le Bistrot Francais | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/bistrotfrancaisUB | email= | address= | lat=47.92385 | long=106.91794 | directions=on the west side of University Street, a block north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 32 0022 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Enjoy a ''pastis'' and have a nice dinner at the only French restaurant in Ulaanbaatar. }} *{{drink | name=Brauhaus | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91302 | long=106.90284 | directions=on Seoul Street past the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Half-liters run around 2500₮ | image=Brauhaus Exterior.jpg | content=Goes for a German brewhouse look (hence the name) and succeeds. This bar is big but usually not noisy. It serves X Beer, a quite tasty local brew. }} *{{drink | name=Dublin Irish Pub | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91377 | long=106.90632 | directions=on Seoul Street between the State Department Store and the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open until midnight | price= | content=Closer to an actual Irish bar than most. }} *{{drink | name=Grand Khaan Irish Pub | alt= | url=https://gk-irishpub.mn/?lang=en | email= | address= | lat=47.91529 | long=106.9142 | directions=next to the National Drama Theater, south of the Post Office | phone= | tollfree= | hours=12:00-22:00 | price=4000₮ for a beer, 15,000₮ for a meal | image=Grand Khaan Irish Pub.jpg | content=A comfortable sports bar and grill with English-speaking staff. }} === Cafes === Ulaanbaatar's coffee scene is exploding, with multiple Korean coffee chains as well as more boutique offerings available throughout the city. * {{drink | name=ROC Caffeine Bar | url=https://roc.mn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A local coffee franchise with its own roastery and 5 branches. Probably the best coffee to be had in the city. |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Caffe Bene | url=https://www.caffebene.mn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Korean coffee chain offering Korean-style desserts |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Tom N Toms Coffee | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100079466408969 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-25 | content=another Korean coffee chain. }} * {{drink | name=Tous Les Jours | url=https://www.facebook.com/TousLesJoursMongolia/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Korean bakery chain with a good coffee section |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Cafe de Lolita | alt=Кафе де Лолита | url=https://www.facebook.com/cafe.de.lolitaa | email= | address=Chingeltei | lat=47.91875 | long=106.905361 | directions= | phone=+976 88006757 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Cafe de Lolita.jpg | wikidata=Q121355565 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=The first and only maid and anime café in Mongolia. }} ==Sleep== During the annual [[#Festivals|Naadam festival]] in July, it's almost impossible to get any kind of accommodation in UB without prior reservations. ===Budget=== Nowadays, budget accommodation in Ulaanbaatar tends to give the best deals for a traveller. Usually a bed in a clean dormitory costs US$5-10 and a double room should be under US$30 a night. Beyond what's listed below, another option for budget travellers who want a taste of authentic Mongolian culture yet are in a hurry or don't want to do longer trekking trips is a ''ger'' homestay with a herder family living in the countryside outside UB. Usually it is possible to participate in their daily life, ''e.g.'' milking cows or chopping wood. Horseback riding might be offered as well. Some travel agencies are able to establish contact with families, including '''[http://stonehorsemongolia.com/ecotourism/ger-stay/ Stone Horse Mongolia]''' and '''[http://www.gertoger.org Ger to Ger]'''. * {{sleep | name=Bolod's Guesthouse and Tours | url=http://bolodtours.com | email=u_borchy@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.92170 | long=106.90575| directions=across the street from Chinggis Square, enter through gate across from Post Office | phone=+976 99192407 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$7/night | lastedit=2017-06-20 | content=Still UB's most centrally located guesthouse, but the place has gone downhill: where cozy, high-ceilinged, clean and bright rooms once greeted you, you now have small, windowless rooms with noisy refrigerators that wake you up several times a night. There's also no kitchen anymore. The shower, which is in the entrance, is clean, but your privacy is only protected by a translucent glass. English-, Russian-, French-, and Italian-speaking staff are on duty during the daytime only. No credit cards are accepted. Bolod also provides tours at good prices and is known to arrange unique trips involving tank-driving and AK-47 shooting. }} * {{sleep | name=Chinggis Guest House and Tours | url= | email=chingisguest@magicnet.mn | address= | lat=47.91492 | long=106.90604| directions=on Chinggis Avenue behind the National Academic Drama Theatre and Bayangol Hotel | phone=+976 99271843, +976 11-325941 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm US$8, double or twin US$10 | content=Clean and comfortable rooms with breakfast, Internet, hot shower, and use of kitchen facilities included in the price. Centrally located and quiet. }} * {{sleep | name=Gana's Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email=gharchin@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.9216 | long=106.8991 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road northwest of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 1136 7343 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$5 in a 6-bed ''ger'' to $25 for a double in the newly built wing | content=This guesthouse stands out from the rest: rather than the standard setup of spartan dorm rooms with bunk beds, guests are accommodated in roomy ''gers'' set up on an airy porch in an excellent central location overlooking downtown UB, only two minutes on foot from Gandan Monastery. Run by a friendly, helpful family, who like most guesthouse proprietors also double as tour operators. }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Gobi | alt= | url= | email=golden_gobi@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91756 | long=106.90815 | directions=off Peace Avenue close to the State Department Store | phone=+976 11-322632, +976 96654496 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-322632 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorms US$6, private rooms from $19 | content=Another cheap and friendly place with free breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Green Steppe Mongolia Guest House | alt= | url= | email=greensteppemongolia@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91735 | long=106.90871 | directions=50 m east of the State Department Store, off Peace Avenue | phone=+976 88033080, +976 88038388 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=anytime | checkout=noon | price=US$6/night | content=A small and quiet guesthouse comprising a couple of dorm rooms and two fully-furnished one-bedroom apartments, with a pleasant patio out back for picnicking. Friendly staff can organize tours to all parts of Mongolia. Complimentary amenities include breakfast in the morning and tea all day, wireless Internet as well as two wired computer terminals, lockers for guests, secure parking for motorbikes and bicycles, hot showers, and cheap laundry service. }} * {{sleep | name=Idre's Guesthouse | alt= | url=https://tours2mongolia.com/ | email=idrehouse@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91121 | long=106.89446 | directions=14253 Narnii Guur, about 2 km from Chinggis Square; take Seoul Street west then turn left | phone=+976 99112575 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Friendly family-run guesthouse with US$4 dorm beds. Rooms are clean, staff are helpful, and tickets and tours can be arranged without hassle. }} *{{sleep | name=Lotus Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://www.lotuschild.org/ | email= | address= | lat=47.92448 | long=106.91208 | directions=northwest of Chinggis Square, on Ikh Toiruu ring road across from School #5, on the second floor of Building 17 | phone=+976 11 325967 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$10-30/night | content=A nice and clean, if spartan, guesthouse run by the Lotus Foundation. Staff on duty 24 hours a day. Rooms have no high table except the very small one for the computer — and, importantly, '''no bedsheet''', and the quilt is not washed between clients! The shower room doesn't lock, and is closed by a translucent door. Free but unreliable WiFi. No credit cards accepted. }} * {{sleep | name=Oasis Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://intergam-oasis.com/ | email=info@intergam-oasis.com | address= | lat=47.91177 | long=106.98095 | directions=on the southeastern outskirts of town, about 5 km from Chinggis Square via Peace Avenue, near the Catholic church | phone=+976 11-463693 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-463693 | checkin= | checkout= | price=€10 | content=A modern-styled and lovingly furnished guesthouse run by a friendly German-Austrian couple who speak German, English, and Mongolian; lodging is in the spacious ''gers'' outside in the garden. Popular with "overlanders" travelling through Mongolia by car or motorcycle. Oasis' onsite café serves very good Western food including homemade cakes. There's a laundry room and hairdresser at the back of the building. }} * {{sleep | name=Petite Marmotte | alt= | url=http://mongolia-trip.com | email=resa@trekmongolie.com | address= | lat=47.9286 | long=106.9159 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 70 11 03 02, +976 888 243 17 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Bed dorm €5; double room €15; family room €25 (4 to 6 people) | lastedit=2024-05-21 | content=A well-located and quiet guesthouse with rooms decorated in traditional Mongolian style. The friendly staff speaks English and French, and is headed by a former chef who lives onsite and sometimes regales guests with tasty homecooked meals. They can also arrange tours. Wi-fi, washing machine, breakfast included. }} * {{sleep | name=Sunpath Hostel | alt= | url=http://sunpath-mongolia.com | email=info@sunpath-mongolia.com | address= | lat=47.92461 | long=106.91266 | directions=across the street from the Central Post Office and Chinggis Square | phone=+976 99143722 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-326323 | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$6/night | content=Sunpath is a centrally located, family-operated hostel perfect for foreign visitors offering free breakfast, free WiFi, and a publicly accessible wired computer terminal. Laundry service is available for a nominal charge. Kitchen facilities are open to guests. Sunpath's friendly staff organizes tours (having very good contacts with people living in the countryside) and are a wealth of information about Ulaanbaatar and Mongolia in general. }} * {{sleep | name=Town Yard Hostel | alt= | url= | email=oyuna_guest_house@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.919989 | long=106.893853 | directions=near Gandan Monastery | phone=+976 99889997, +976 99173469 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-08-13 | content=Hostel with fluent English-speaking owners situated just a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride to Chinggis Square. Free breakfast (with a menu that changes daily!) and free tea all day; kitchen facilities are also available for guests who'd like to self-cater other meals. They offer tours of (and can arrange accommodation at) [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]], but unlike pretty much every other hostel, they usually lay off the hard sell. Laundry service is available, though it's a bit pricey. }} * {{sleep | name=UB Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://www.ubguesthouse.com/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91936 | long=106.91095 | directions=near Zanzabar Museum; entrance is in the rear of the building facing the Mongol Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm beds US$6; single room $15; twin room $18; double room $20 | content=A clean, well-organized, and centrally located hostel that also arranges tours around the country. E-mail ahead for a free pickup from the train station. A light breakfast, tea and coffee are included. In theory you can use the phone between 10:00 to 18:00, but don't count on it. There's only a hotplate in the kitchen. Only foreigners allowed. No in-room guests. Staff is not terribly friendly. }} * {{sleep | name=Zaya Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://zayahostel.com/ | email=backpackza@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.91670 | long=106.90169 | directions=just off Peace Avenue west of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 331 575 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$20 for a single and US$27 for a double room | content=Zaya has two locations in the city center, both in newly renovated modern apartment buildings. The place is more suitable for a person looking for a clean and quiet place to sleep than a backpacker looking for a rowdy and noisy dorm. Free wireless Internet in the rooms. They also organize tours. }} ===Mid-range=== Ulaanbaatar has plenty of options for budget travellers and big spenders, but not so much for those in the middle. * {{sleep | name=Mandukhai Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91758 | long=106.90362 | directions=near State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=20,000-25,000₮/night | content=A nice inexpensive hotel in the city center. The hotel staff speaks little English, but rooms are large and include TV. Bathrooms are shared. }} * {{sleep | name=Royal House Hotel | alt=formerly Red Rose Hotel | url=http://www.royalhousehotel.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.915148 | long=106.944512 | directions=on the ring road east of the city center; take Peace Avenue east from Chinggis Square for about 2 km and then turn right | phone=+976 11 46 4088 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=One of UB's leading hotels, with a location among a cluster of major shopping centers and office buildings. 34 rooms of various levels of luxury: deluxe, semi-lux and standard. }} * {{sleep | name=ibis Styles Ulaanbaatar Polaris | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/9808/index.ru.shtml | email=H9808@accor.com | address=81 Chinggis Avenue, Khan-Uul | lat=47.895156 | long=106.883866 | directions= | phone=+976 70100707 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double US$120 | image=Ibis Styles Ulaanbaatar Polaris.jpg | lastedit=2025-01-09 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Bayangol Hotel | alt= | url=http://bayangolhotel.mn | email= | address= | lat=47.91203 | long=106.91365 | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=Bayangol Hotel.jpg | content=Close to the bars and Chinggis Square, but rooms are small and the Internet cuts in and out. }} * {{sleep | name=Blue Sky Hotel and Tower | alt= | url=http://hotelbluesky.mn | email= | address= | lat=47.91674 | long=106.91851 | directions=south side of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 7010 0505 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$200 | wikipedia=Blue Sky Tower | image=Felhőkarcoló a főtéren (Skyscraper on the central square) - panoramio.jpg | wikidata=Q15107804 | content=The tallest building in Mongolia. 200 rooms, plus several nice restaurants and bars including a lounge on the 23rd floor with views of the whole city.. }} * {{sleep | name=Chinggis Khaan Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.chinggis-hotel.com | email=reservation@chinggis-hotel.com | address= | lat=47.922101 | long=106.934609 | directions=four blocks east of Chinggis Square; take Beijing Street east for about 1200 m, then turn right on Tokyo Street | phone=+976 700 000 99 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=Chinggis Khaan Hotel.jpg | wikidata=Q11074511 | content=Spacious rooms that can be described as "wannabe luxurious". }} * {{sleep | name=Corporate Hotel | alt=Корпорэйт зочид буудал | url=http://www.corporatehotel.mn/sector/sector-1 | email= | address= | lat=47.91299 | long=106.91355 | directions=on Chinggis Avenue, seven minutes on foot south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Corporate Hotel.jpg | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=Nice luxurious rooms as well as sauna, jacuzzi and free WiFi. }} * {{sleep | name=HS Khaan Resort Hotel | alt= | url=http://hs-khaan-resort.com/ | email= | address=Khui doloon hudag, Argalant soum | lat=47.971077 | long=106.480045 | directions=about 12 km west of central UB via Highway 3 | phone=+976-9908-8102 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A ''ger''-style resort in the countryside outside of town. All rooms have sweeping views over the steppes. }} * {{sleep | name=Kempinski Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.kempinski.com/en/ulaanbaatar/hotel-khan-palace/welcome/ | email=reservations.ulaanbaatar@kempinski.com | address= | lat=47.91982 | long=106.94365 | directions=about 2 km east of Chinggis Square, at northeast corner of Peace Avenue and Ikh Toiruu ring road | phone=+976 11 463 463 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A nice hotel on the east side of the city with several good restaurants, including '''Kara-Khorum''' with an excellent brunch on the weekends: various meats, fruit, omelet and juice bar, plus caviar and champagne. }} * {{sleep | name=Ramada Citycenter | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/ulaanbaatar-mongolia/ramada-ulaanbaatar-citycenter/overview | email= | address= | lat=47.91519 | long=106.89188 | directions=on Peace Avenue about 2 km west of Chinggis Square, a block past Ikh Toiruu ring road | phone=+976 7014 1111 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$200/night | content=One of the only international hotel chains in the city. On the top floor of the '''MaxMall''', near Gandan Monastery. Has all the standard features of a full-service Western hotel, including fitness center, sauna, and office space. }} * {{sleep | name=Shangri-La Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.shangri-la.com/ulaanbaatar/shangrila/ | email= | address= | lat=47.912953 | long=106.920231 | directions=on Olympic Street three blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 7702 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=From US$440/night | image=Shangri-La Ulaanbaatar.jpg | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=Centrally located high-rise property catering to a mix of business travellers and well-heeled tourists, with free WiFi, a fitness club, laundry and shoeshine service, and several onsite restaurants. Rooms are spacious, overlook either Chinggis Square or Nayramdal Park, and their design can be described as a modernized take on traditional Mongolian aesthetic elements. They'll pick you up from the airport upon prior arrangement. }} * {{sleep | name=Ulaanbaatar Hotel | alt= | url=http://ubhotel.mn/ | email=reservations@ubhotel.mn | address= | lat=47.91862 | long=106.92266 | directions=just off the east side of Sukhbaatar Square | phone=+976 11 320 620 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia=Ulaanbaatar Hotel | image=Ulaanbaatar Hotel.jpg | wikidata=Q10877907 | content=The first modern hotel ever built in Mongolia (in 1961) is showing its age. Nice central location, though. }} * {{sleep | name=Mongolica Hotel and Resort | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/mongolica.resort/ | email= | address= | lat=47.860788 | long=106.678861 | directions= | phone=+976 99199152 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ==Connect== On Peace Avenue at the southwest corner of Chinggis Square, Ulaanbaatar's {{marker|type=listing|name=Central Post Office|lat=47.91706|long=106.91578}} not only sells stamps but also a wide variety of reasonably priced postcards (though they may take up to two months to reach their destination!) Also check out their large collections of decorative stamps. '''Mobile phone''' operators around town offer prepaid GSM SIM cards, handset rentals (Mobicom), and extensive roaming options. As well, prepaid cards such as BodiCom are another convenient and relatively inexpensive way to make an international call. '''Internet''' Many restaurants and coffeehouses offer free WiFi. ==Stay safe== ===Crime=== While crime rates in Ulaanbaatar are said to be among the highest of any Asian city, this generally applies less to the city center than the underdeveloped ''ger'' districts on the outskirts of town: poorly lit shantytowns crisscrossed by maze-like dirt alleys and row upon row of fences; not the kind of place most tourists would be interested in to begin with. Nonetheless, it might be a good idea to avoid going out at night alone (though it's usually perfectly fine to do so in groups). This goes double for relatively deserted areas away from major routes, and for rowdy nightlife districts. Although most large buildings have security guards, they're only there to keep drunks and homeless people out, so don't expect much help from them if a crime is committed against you. Unfortunately, xenophobia and violence towards foreigners is common. Alcoholism is a huge social problem and Mongolia has some of the highest rates of liver cancer in the world. Do not acknowledge or approach any Mongolian man under the influence of alcohol. Many foreigners who go to bars and clubs at night report assault and general aggression. While muggings, assaults, and taxi scams all occasionally occur, the main crime for foreigners to be concerned about is '''pickpocketing'''. This is especially a problem at the '''Naran Tuul''' market, at the bus stops close to the '''State Department Store''', and on crowded buses in general. If you've been attacked or pickpocketed, take time to make a deposition at the district police station, and let your country's embassy know. Though unmarked taxis are common and generally nothing to fear, it's probably a good idea to get a local to serve as an interpreter and explain the fare system, and to keep an eye on where the taxi is taking you. Sometimes unmarked taxi drivers will try to take people, especially drunk tourists, down a dark alley and demand their cell phone or cash. ===Hotel scams=== Vacation home hosting is common in UB, foreign investors, locals, and real estate developers list available apartments on the usual booking sites. The frequency of fraud or crime with these listings is probably just as common as in established hotels elsewhere in the world, but there are some additional things to look out for, when an established hotel might seem to otherwise provide safety in numbers. Vacation rentals might be apartments in locations that have been caused to be otherwise unliveable due to nuisance conditions created with the intention of driving tenants or owners out. New construction in some areas is shoddy with thin walls and no privacy, projects are colonized by organized criminals gangs, retail spaces nearby might be venues for organized trafficking in persons. New buildings as elsewhere in Asia, are liable to be financed by organized crime groups from the usual places, largely unoccupied, unsecured and wholly thrown open for arbitrary use within international trafficking rings. Irregular hotels operated by noncitizens may be located in mixed use buildings or apartment complexes with persistent crime presence. In areas with high methamphetamine drug use, it might be difficult even to determine the nature or intent of the criminal actors. ===Road and traffic hazards=== Walking on the streets at any time is a hazardous affair, as there are open manholes, reckless drivers, and (from October to March) ice on the roads to contend with. The automobile culture in UB is too new for safe driving systems and habits to have taken root among the public: if you're crossing the street, even at a designated crosswalk and even if in theory you have the right of way, don't expect anyone (even buses and police) to stop or even slow down for you. You ''will'' get honked and shouted at, however. ===Child beggars=== This is a common sight on the streets of UB that may tug at the heartstrings of well-off Western tourists, but the reality is a bit more complicated than it may appear. Any money you give will often go straight into the pockets of their teenage "pimps", so your donation may not help the kids. It also pays to be on your guard when they operate in groups, as this is often a setup for a pickpocketing operation. Children and the elderly are frequently present in the areas where organized prostitution is taking place. Sex trafficking in Asia invariably involves call centers, and often family members or fellow travelers, taking direction from a handler in related crime activities. The objective is to obtain money, it is not to sell sex. ===General=== In winter, be mindful of the cold at all times. Even being outside for a couple of minutes in -35 can cause problems very, very quickly. In bars, many people may want to approach you and talk to you out of interest. This is usually well-meaning, though it can be annoying. As a general rule, the more drunk a person will be, the more annoying they will be too. If you are open to conversation, then go ahead. Mongolians are interesting and interested, and it can lead to great connections, memories and stories. However, remember to be wary. Some Mongolian men do not take too kindly to foreign men speaking to Mongolian women (especially young women). Be wary of this, especially in busy bars, and where copious amounts of alcohol is involved. ==Cope== ===Newspapers=== The weekly '''''[https://www.ubpost.mn/ UB Post]''''' is the principal English-language source for cultural, economic, and political goings-on in Mongolia. ===Embassies=== * {{flag|Australia}}{{listing | name=Australia | alt= | url=https://mongolia.embassy.gov.au/ | email= | address=Level 20, Shangri-La Centre, 19A Olympic Street, Sukhbaatar District-1 | lat= | long= | directions=Shangri-La Centre | phone=+976 7013 3001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata= |lastedit=2023-03-25| content= }} * {{flag|Canada}} {{listing | name=Canada | alt= | url= | email= | address=Central Tower, 6th floor | lat= | long= | directions=southeast corner of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 332500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33245649 | content= }} * {{flag|China}} {{listing | type=listing | name=China | alt= | url=http://mn.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/ | email=chinaemb_mn@mfa.gov.cn | address=Zaluuchuudyn Urgun Chuluu 5 | post = C.P.O.BOX672 | lat= | long= | directions=just northeast of the Government House | phone=+976 11 320955, +976 11 323940, +976 11 311903 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11 311943 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309063 | content=It is possible for most foreigners to get a Chinese visa here. During busy periods, the office may refuse entry after 11:00. Also, on major Chinese holidays, the Consular Section may be closed for several days. }} * {{flag|Cuba}} {{listing | name=Cuba | alt= | url= | email= | address=United Nations Street 18, Sükhbaatar district | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 323778 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309069 | content= }} * {{flag|Czech Republic}} {{listing | name=Czech Republic | alt= | url=http://www.mzv.cz/ulaanbaatar | email=ulaanbaatar@embassy.mzv.cz | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11321886, +976 99111880 (emergencies), +976 9909 8708 (emergencies) | tollfree= | fax=+976 11323791 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309276 | content= }} * {{flag|France}} {{listing | name=France | alt= | url=http://www.ambafrance-mn.org/ | email= | address=Peace Avenue 12, Sükhbaatar district | lat=47.917176 | long=106.913517 | directions=west of Chinggis Square, past the Central Post Office | phone=+976 11 324519 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2841766 | content= }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany | alt= | url= | email= | address=United Nations Street 18, Baga Toiruu 2, Sükhbaatar district | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 329522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309283 | content= }} * {{flag|India}} {{listing | name=India | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaluuchuud Avenue 10, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=just east of the Chinese embassy | phone=+976 11 329522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309392 | content= }} * {{flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Olympic Street 8, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 320777, +976 11 313332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309400 | content= }} * {{flag|Kazakhstan}} {{listing | name=Kazakhstan | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th khoroo, Zaisan Street 78, Khan-Uul District | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 345408 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309414 | content= }} * {{flag|Kuwait}} {{listing | name=Kuwait | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bella Vista Town, Zaisan Bella, 11th khoroo, Khan-Uul District | lat= | long= | directions=south of the city center, near the bridge to Zaisan Memorial | phone=+976 7744444 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309421 | content= }} * {{flag|Laos}} {{listing | name=Laos | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th khoroo, Ikh Toiruu Road 59, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=massive complex on the south side of Peace Avenue, East of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 326440 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309436 | content= }} * {{flag|North Korea}} {{listing | name=North Korea | alt= | url= | email= | address=Diplomatic Complex 95, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=behind the Embassy Restaurant near the Tengis Theater | phone=+976 11 310432 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309445 | content= }} * {{flag|Russia}} {{listing | name=Russia | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th Khoroo, Ikh Toiruu Road 59, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=massive complex on the south side of Peace Avenue, east of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 326440, +976 11 322834 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Russian embassy in Ulan Bator 2.JPG | wikidata=Q16687397 | content= }} * {{flag|South Korea}} {{listing | name=South Korea | alt= | url=http://overseas.mofa.go.kr/mn-ko/index.do | email= | address=Olympic Street 10, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=two blocks South of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 70071030, +976 11 70071020 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-18:00 | price= | wikidata=Q33309454 | lastedit=2017-07-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Turkey}} {{listing | name=Turkey | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue 5, Chingeltei District | lat= | long= | directions=west of the post office, next to the French Embassy | phone=+976 11 311200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309468 | content= }} * {{flag|United Kingdom}} {{listing | name=United Kingdom | alt= | url=https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-ulaanbaatar | email=Consular.Mongolia@fco.gov.uk | address=Unit 1-3A, Level 19 Shangri-La Offices, Olympic Street 19A, Sukhbaatar District-1 | lat=47.9128275 | long=106.9215149 | directions=north-east corner of the National Amusement Park | phone=+976 11 458133 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu Th 14:00-16:00 | price= | wikidata=Q33309476 | content= }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | alt= | url=https://mn.usembassy.gov/ | email=cons@usembassy.mn | address= | lat= | long= | directions=north of Chinggis Khaan Hotel | phone=+976 7007-6001 | tollfree= | fax=+976 7007-6174 | hours=M-F 08:30-12:30 and 13:00-17:00 | price= | wikipedia=Embassy of the United States, Ulaanbaatar | image=US Embassy in Mongolia.jpg | wikidata=Q25044768 | content= }} * {{flag|Vietnam}} {{listing | name=Vietnam | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue 47, Bayanzurkh District | lat=47.9185 | long=106.9343 | directions=just West of the Wrestling Palace | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Vietnamese embassy in Ulaanbaatar.JPG | wikidata=Q33309489 | content= }} ==Go next== Except for those just passing through on the [[Trans-Siberian Railway|Trans-Mongolian Railroad]] or transiting through Ulaanbaatar Airport, most people come to Mongolia to witness the beauty of the endless steppes and deserts of Central Asia, populated by the nomadic descendants of Genghis Khan. Ulaanbaatar is an excellent homebase to explore Mongolia with its many museums, monasteries, and cultural experiences, but don't confine yourself to UB: you can't really get to know this place without going to the countryside for at least a few days. *[[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]] — scenic, forested mountain valleys a mere three-hour bus ride from UB *[[Bogd Khan National Park]] — the world's largest equestrian statue of Genghis Khan and the ruins of a large Buddhist monastery destroyed by the communists in 1937 are the showpieces of this massive mountain park South of town *[[Karakorum]] — the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in the beautiful Orkhon River valley, a day's bus ride to the west *The [[Gobi|Gobi Desert]] — nomadic camel herders and dinosaur fossils *[[Western Mongolia]] — where the old Kazakh tradition of eagle-hunting lives on in the snow-capped Altai Mountains {{routebox| | image1=Trans-Siberian Railway icon.png | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Irkutsk]] | minorl1=[[Darkhan]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Beijing]] | minorr1=[[Sainshand]] | link1=Trans-Siberian Railway }} {{IsPartOf|Central Mongolia}} {{guidecity}} {{geo|47.92|106.92}} 06iyq98hqxbk5tz1fsveqwvixaflhk8 5091154 5090952 2025-07-11T02:16:00Z Chongkian 70395 /* Cafes */ Updated listing for Cafe de Lolita 5091154 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Ulanbataar panorama banner.jpg|dotm=yes}} '''Ulaanbaatar''' ''(Улаанбаатар)'' — also '''Ulan Bator''', '''UB''', or in the local language, '''Khot''' ("the city") — is the capital and the largest city of [[Mongolia]]. With more than 1.6 million residents as of 2023, Ulaanbaatar is home to roughly half of Mongolia's population and serves as the starting point for pretty much all travel around Mongolia. Founded and established by warlords of the Mongol Empire in the 16th century, Ulaanbaatar is roughly 1,300-1,400 meters above sea level and is situated on a valley in the Tuul River. Ulaanbaatar is a modern and clean city populated with beautiful landmarks such as the Green Palace, universities such as the National University of Mongolia, fancy skyscrapers, hotels, monasteries, museums, and malls showcasing local and international brands. A number of national parks and protected areas (the [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]] being the most popular one) belong to the city. Due to its high elevation and distance from any major body of water, Ulaanbaatar has the onerous distinction of being the world's coldest capital city. Ulaanbaatar winters are notorious for being harsh, dry, and bitterly cold; winter temperatures range from -20° to -50° Celsius. ==Understand== [[image:UB downtown.jpg|thumb|400px|Downtown Ulaanbaatar in 2015]] Ulaanbaatar has many different and distinct layers. Long gone are the days when this city was just a typical, drab Soviet-bloc town in the middle of nowhere. One can witness the traditional, the Soviet, and the super-modern, all within a 5 minute walk through the city. Ulaanbaatar lies in the ''Altan Tevshiin Kundii'' (Valley of the Golden Cradle). Here the rivers Selbe and Tuul meet at the foot of the imposing Bogd Uul Mountain. In the forested and watered zone of northern Mongolia, it resides near the 2,000-year-old royal tombs of the Xiongnu, the 8th-century Turkic inscription of General Tonyukuk, and the birthplace of Genghis Khan. From the 20,000-year-old Paleolithic settlement on the Zaisan monument to the 12th century palace of the Nestorian Christian monarch Toghrul, there is a lot to learn and discover about this deep first layer of Ulaanbaatar. The second layer is the ''Urga'' or ''Örgöö'' of 1639-1778 — what would become Ulaanbaatar was established as a nomadic monastic center for the spiritual leader Zanabazar in 1639 — 230 kilometres (143 miles) southwest of today's Ulaanbaatar. The monastic center moved repeatedly and eventually settled at its present location in 1778, along a trading route between Russia and China. This mobile monastery era survives today as cultural forms (Genghisid memory, Mongolian temple architecture, wooden-fenced ger districts, Mongolian script, and Buddhism, traditional clothing, festivals, wrestling, music), and as physical artifacts kept in museums (Zanabazar masterpieces). The third layer is the late Qing dynasty Urga of 1778-1924 which can be found in surviving buildings such as the Gandan monastery. The fourth layer is the socialist period of 1924-1990 which saw the destruction of temples, the confiscation of private property, and Stalinist purges, but also the emergence of Mongolia as a modern, independent nation with Ulaanbaatar as its showcase. It was in this period that the city was named ''Ulaanbaatar khot'', literally "''Red Hero City''". The fifth layer, corresponding to the decade of the 1990s, was a stagnant period marked by poverty and bread lines which left a poor impression on the few visitors who passed through the city after its opening from communism. The newest sixth layer is the Ulaanbaatar of 2000 to the present, which saw the city over double in size to its current 1.6 million. However, while the center now has glittery skyscrapers, fashion boutiques and epic traffic jams, many poor migrants huddle in ''ger'' (yurt) districts on the outskirts of the city without basic amenities like running water and sewage. The residents of the ''ger'' districts have effectively become refugees in their own country, as the government has attempted to clamp down on rural-to-urban migration by not allowing new arrivals to register in the city, thus depriving them of the ability to access healthcare, employment and education in some instances. [[File:The private sector with yurts against the backdrop of high-rise new buildings in Ulaanbaatar.jpg|thumb|300x300px|A ''ger'' neighborhood next to a high-rise neighborhood, on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar.]] ===Orientation=== Peace Avenue (''Enkh Taivny Örgön Chölöö'') is the main street, stretching from east to west through the center with shopping and restaurants all along it. This street dates back to old Urga when it was called the ''Chölöö'' (Broad Avenue). The Chinese financed its paving in the 1950s. The street passes by the southern edge of the central square, '''Sükhbaatar Square''', which has roots in the central square of old Urga. The tourist information office is in the south flank of the town hall in the western corner of Chinggis Square. The city center is defined by the ''Ikh Toiruu'' (Great Ring Road) which has its origin in the prayer route of pilgrims circling the central temple-palace complex of Urga. Peace Avenue crosses the middle of the ring road horizontally while the southern part of the ring road is the Narnii Zam road ("Road of the Sun" built with Japanese support). South of the Narni Zam road is the affluent southern part of Ulaanbaatar with luxury apartments lining the Tuul River. Ger districts line the northern part of the city center and stretch 7 km north to the '''Dambadarjaalin Monastery''' built in 1765. North of Dambadarjaalin Monastery starts the ''Zuslan'' or summer vacation area, where charming summer houses stretch 14 km to Khandgait. Many families in Ulaanbaatar have a ''zuslan'' building (similar to Russian ''dachas'') where they spend the summer among the forests and natural scenery of the Selbe river valley. Some herding families graze their horses and cows freely in this area. The scenery gets more dramatic going east towards the Terelj area with big rock formations and wildflower valleys. Tours go past Terelj to the 1740 '''Gunjiin Sum Princess Temple''' and the '''Khagiin Khar''' lake. The southern edge of Ulaanbaatar is marked by its boundary with the town of Zuunmod on the south side of the Bogd Uul mountain. The 1778 shrine of '''Tsetsee Gun''' on the peak and the 1747 ruins of the '''Manjusri Monastery''' are on top of the mountain. South of the mountain starts an endless sea of grassland steppe gradually merging into the [[Gobi]] Desert 300 km south of UB. Day trips to the east include the '''Tsonjin Boldog Genghis Khan Statue'''. Day trips to the west include the '''Hustai Nuruu National Park''', '''Aglag Meditation Center''' and '''Ögii Lake'''. ===History=== At the time when Ulaanbaatar was founded as Urga in 1639 by Genghisid nobles, Mongolia was actually a serious contender for power in East Asia. The last Great Khan, Ligdan, had died in 1634, and the Manchu were rising in the east — but the independent Mongols had been revitalized by a Buddhist renaissance in the 1570s, and raids under Altan Khan were carried out as far afield as [[Beijing]]. A firmer union of the Western Oirats and Eastern Genghisids would have sufficed to fend off the Manchus. The 1640 Mongol-Oirat Code of Law united the East and West, but this union failed to last long. What did survive from this period was the union of the Eastern Mongols cemented in 1639 with the founding of Urga. The Mongol nobles installed one of their own, Zanabazar, the son of Tüsheet Khan Gombodorj (1594-1655) and a direct descendant of Genghis Khan, as the supreme lama of the Mongols. His residence, called '''Örgöö''' or Urga, meaning "palace-yurt", was some 250 km west of the current site of the city, near the ancient Mongol capital of [[Karakorum]]. In 1651, the first Jebtsundamba Khutughtu, Zanabazar, returned from studies in [[Tibet]] and established seven monastic departments in Urga. The mobile monastery gradually became a mobile city, moving every few years as needed. Urga was moved 25 times between its founding in 1639 and settling in its current location in 1778, by which time it had several thousand tents and temples and was served by trade routes from [[China]] and [[Russia]]. It was also estimated to have about 10,000 monks. The Gandan Monastery was established in 1809 and became the center of learning for all of Mongolia, and one of the most important monasteries in Tibetan Buddhism.[[image:Jugder 001.jpg|thumb|400px|Ulaanbaatar (Urga) in 1913]]The city continued to grow through the 19th century as a provincial capital of the Qing Empire and a center of religion and trade. Russian influence in Mongolia became significant in the late 18th century, and a two-story Russian consulate was opened in 1865 as an upgrade from the 18th century wooden quarters of the Russian representative. Mongolia was, in practice, a buffer between Russia and China, with plenty of local autonomy through the Bogd Jebtsundamba and Mongolian nobles. In 1911, the 8th Bogd Khan declared independence from China, leading to a long unstable period in the city's history including an occupation by a Chinese warlord in 1919. However, the Chinese were expelled by the [[Belarus|White Russian]] Roman von Ungern-Sternberg, aka the "Mad Baron", in 1921. This forced the Soviet Union to intervene and set up a puppet state in what was then known as Outer Mongolia. The country was nominally independent but essentially a satellite state of the USSR. In 1924, the city's name changed from Urga to Ulaanbaatar ("Red Hero"). Many of the monasteries and temples were destroyed in the religious purges of the 1930s. Following the end of the Second World War, the old ''ger'' districts were largely cleared for Soviet-style city apartments, offices, and factories. The [[Trans-Siberian Railway|Trans-Mongolian Railway]] was completed in 1956, connecting Ulaanbaatar to Beijing and [[Moscow]]. Gandan Monastery was reopened during a visit by US Vice President Henry Wallace in 1944, when he asked to see a monastery. Since the democratic revolution in 1990, the population of the city has almost tripled from 540,600 (1989) to 1.6 million (2020) - with thousands moving in from the countryside. The commercial and residential real estate sectors have boomed since 2000, though large factories have closed and much of the city still lives in the slum-like ''ger'' districts. ===Climate=== {{Climate | units = Metric | janhigh = -15.5 | febhigh = -9.4 | marhigh = -.2 | aprhigh = 10.4 | mayhigh = 17.8 | junhigh = 23.1 | julhigh = 25.2 | aughigh = 23.0 | sephigh = 17.2 | octhigh = 7.7 | novhigh = -4.8 | dechigh = -13.7 | janlow = -25.6 | feblow = -21.7 | marlow = -12.6 | aprlow = -3.3 | maylow = 3.5 | junlow = 10.3 | jullow = 13.5 | auglow = 11.1 | seplow = 4.1 | octlow = -4.5 | novlow = -15.1 | declow = -22.9 | janprecip = 2.1 | febprecip = 2.8 | marprecip = 4.6 | aprprecip = 8.4 | mayprecip = 21.7 | junprecip = 47.2 | julprecip = 74.5 | augprecip = 65.4 | sepprecip = 27.9 | octprecip = 8.6 | novprecip = 6.3 | decprecip = 3.5 | description = NOAA (1991-2020) }} Although summer daytime temperatures are mild and average around {{c|24}} and nights around {{C|13}}, the city shivers in sub-zero temperatures for five months of the year. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures hovering between {{c|-15}} to {{c|-30}} at night. As a result of these prolonged periods of intense cold, the city has an average annual temperature of {{c|.2}}, giving it the dubious distinction of being the world's coldest capital. The cold is dry, however, and there is not much wind chill due to temperature inversion. Heat island effect also means the city center is warmer than the outskirts. Summer can be very hot at times, with several days above {{c|31}} and warmer nights above {{c|17}}, so one should avoid heat stress and use sunscreen when necessary. The sun is up from 05:00 to 20:45 in June, and from 08:30 to 17:00 in the winter. If you have breathing problems, be aware that Ulaanbaatar has high levels of air pollution during the winter. However, away from the city, the countryside air is gorgeous. In winter, air pollution starts at 19:00, when ''ger'' district residents start burning coal for heat, and lasts till about 10:00 the next morning. It is severe in northern parts of the city close to the ''ger'' districts, but gets sparse going south from Chinggis Square and is almost absent near Zaisan, at the southern edge of the city where there are no ''ger'' districts. The air pollution lifts in early March and the city remains pollution-free (excluding car exhaust) until November. ==Get in== ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Chinggis Khaan International Airport | alt={{IATA|UBN}}, Чингис хаан олон улсын нисэх буудал, New Ulaanbaatar International Airport | url=https://en.ulaanbaatar-airport.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.651581 | long=106.821772 | directions=52 km south of Ulaanbaatar | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chinggis Khaan International Airport | image=Chinggis Khan International Airport.jpg | wikidata=Q837745 | content=Opened in 2021, this Japanese-built airport has now taken over all domestic and international flights, replacing the old Buyant-Ukhaa Airport which also formerly known as Chinggis Khaan International Airport. }} '''[https://en.ulaanbaatar-airport.mn/bus-route Getting to the airport]''' takes about 50-100 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport buses run from 6:20 AM to midnight, but taxis and the new Ulaanbaatar Airport shuttle are more reliable. Taxis cost a steep 85,000-120,000 ₮ depending on your destination, be sure to agree on the price in advance. There are also shared taxis for 30,000MNT. The Ulaanbaatar Airport Shuttle costs 20,000 MNT - 30,000 MNT depending on the size of the shuttle. Many of the higher-end hotels will offer a shuttle service to/from the airport for a nominal fee. ===By train=== [[File:Ulaanbaatar Railway Station.jpg|thumb|Ulaanbaatar Train Station]] Direct (if long) journeys are possible from destinations between Moscow and Beijing on the Trans-Mongolian line of the [[Trans-Siberian Railway]]. Ulaanbaatar-bound trains leave Beijing once a week, on Wednesday, and seats can only be reserved at the International Hotel in Beijing, a ten-minute walk north of the main rail station. The journey takes about 30 hours. Packing a face mask is a good idea as sandstorms in the Gobi desert may cause difficulty in breathing. Shorter-haul trains also run to the Chinese border towns of [[Erlian]] and [[Jining (Inner Mongolia)|Jining]] 3-4 times a week. Ulaanbaatar's {{marker|type=go|name=train station|lat=47.90865|long=106.88395}} is on Narni Zam road, about 3 km west of the city centre. The cheapest option is the daily 18:05 departure to Zamyn Uud on the Mongolian side of the Chinese border. You can buy a connecting bus ticket from Zamyn Uud to Erlian on the Chinese side for 10000₮ in the railway office in Ulaanbaatar. After COVID-19 related suspending for 3 years, train service between China and Mongolia was restored, but only between Ulaanbaatar and [[Erenhot]]. In Moscow, trains to Ulaanbaatar depart Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays (the latter two are express runs), for a journey that lasts 100 hours or a little over 4 days. There's also a daily train to/from [[Irkutsk]], which can also be reached from [[Vladivostok]] at the eastern end of the Trans-Siberian. ===By car=== What few paved roads exist in Mongolia generally go to and from Ulaanbaatar. Thus, getting to UB from elsewhere in Mongolia on a ''paved'' road is very easy, because all you have to do is just follow the pavement. However, if you're driving one of the dirt tracks that characterize the majority of the country's road network, it pays to have a map, and if [[Offroad driving|off-roading]] is part of your itinerary, it pays to have a local guide/driver. Coming from the '''north''', the paved road starts at the Russian border at [[Sühbaatar]]. Coming from the '''south''', the paved road starts at the Chinese border at [[Zamyn-Üüd]], passing through the vast Gobi Desert along the way. Coming from the '''northeast''', the paved road starts at [[Bulgan]]. Finally, from the '''west''', the road starts in either [[Bayanhongor]] in the southwest or [[Tsetserleg]] further north. ===By bus=== [[File:New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal.jpg|thumb|New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Bus Terminal]] Once in the country, it should not be difficult to find a bus going to UB, at least from larger towns. However, bus stops are difficult to locate, with buses usually just stopping in populated areas. Furthermore, Mongolian buses are notorious for being late — in some cases by a day or more. Buses from Russia, the west, north and south usually go to Dragon Center, while those from China and the east go to Bayanzurkh bus station, just east of the Officer Monument at the east end of Peace Avenue. * {{go | name=New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal | alt=драгон | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91053 | long=106.8205 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=New Ulaanbaatar Dragon Terminal.jpg | content=The primary bus station for all buses going to the [[Western Mongolia|west]], [[Northern Mongolia|north]], and the Gobi. }} * {{listing | name=Botanical Gardens | alt=ботаник | type=go | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91272 | long=106.99319 | directions=1 km east of the eastern traffic circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The gardens have been completely destroyed, but the location is well known to the locals. Serves inter-city buses to [[Eastern Mongolia]]. }} * {{listing | name=Tenger Plaza | alt= | type=go | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=east of the city center, southeast of Mongolia International University and MIU bus stop | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Buses depart to various national destinations. Buses to [[Zamyn-Üüd]], the main border crossing to China, depart at 07:00 and 21:00, arriving there about 10 hours later, with some buses continuing across the border to Erlian. }} From Russia, there are also UB-bound buses from [[Ulan Ude]], leaving at 07:30 from the '''old bus station''' ''(Старый Автовокзал)'' via the Altanbulag border crossing. The trip usually takes about 12 hours, including customs processing — much faster than the train — and tickets cost {{RUB|1800}} one-way. Night buses leave on Fridays and Sundays at 19:00. Buses arrive and depart from the Dragon Bus station. Any travel agency should be able to book tickets or you can buy them at either bus station. ==Get around== {{Mapframe|47.91729|106.90815|zoom=11|width=700|height=430|layer=MP}} Street names are rarely known by Mongolians, and they usually only appear on maps and official addresses. Official addresses list the district, microdistrict (usually a large block bounded by major streets), and the building number. However, since blocks can have dozens of buildings, with more continuously being squeezed in between existing ones, addresses are not very helpful for navigation. Instead, it's best to have directions for major landmarks using lots of descriptions (i.e. "turn right at the first traffic signal west of the State Department Store"). Some major streets to know are '''Peace Avenue''', UB's main road which runs west-to-east in front of Chinggis Square; '''Chinggis Avenue''', running north-to-south on the east side of the square, then veering west toward the airport in front of Bogd Khan Winter Palace; and '''Seoul Street''', which runs west from Chinggis Avenue just south of Chinggis Square. ===By taxi=== If you stand in the street and hold out your arm, usually within seconds somebody will have stopped to pick you up. This system can be quick and reliable, especially during the cold winter, but it can cause problems as many drivers will only speak Mongolian. Taxis are cheap: the going rate is around 1000₮ per kilometer, but if you're a foreigner, they'll overcharge you and there's really no way to get around it completely. (In extreme circumstances, opportunistic younger drivers have been known to try to hold passengers or their luggage at ransom until they pay extraordinary amounts of money!) A good tip is to carry a small written note with an amount in ''tögrög'' (500₮, 1000₮, 1500₮, etc.) and show them exactly what you are willing to pay before you get on. If the driver does not seem aggressive, you can get yourself out of this situation by knowing a few local words - particularly yes, no, and any numbers. Remember, even if you pay 4000 ''tögrög'' for a journey, though this is a higher fare than a local would pay, it is still only just over $1. So use your judgement. The current price of gasoline is $5/gallon, 3710₮/litre, so you can judge whether some of these prices are realistic given market conditions. UB also now has a fleet of new white cabs with large LCD-screen fare meters on the dash. Always negotiate the fare in advance, don't be fooled by tricks like "I meant 3000₮ for each of you", and avoid random cars that offer taxi service. * {{listing | name=Help Taxi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 99652371 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=1000₮/km, minimum 4000₮, airport to city center 30,000₮ | content=Fluent English-speaking dispatch, all drivers have at least limited proficiency in English. Main taxi service for all the embassies. }} * {{listing | name=iTaxi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 77171717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=1000₮/km, airport to city center 20,000₮ | content=English-speaking dispatch, metered taxi rides, texts you when the taxi arrives to pick you up. }} * Download '''UBCab''' to order taxis quickly to your location. You do not enter the destination into the app, but simply order the cab and then instruct the driver where to go once you get in. ===By bus=== [[File:Sükhbaatar Square Parking Lot.jpg|thumb|Public bus in Ulaanbaatar]] Buses in UB come in several different varieties. At the top of the scale, regularly scheduled municipal buses operate on a widespread network that extends right to the outskirts of town, for a flat rate of 500₮. As well, there's an almost equally extensive network of '''microbuses''' charging from 300-500₮, distinguished by a person hanging out the window at each stop and shouting the name of the destination in rapid-fire Mongolian. Finally, there is also a cheaper (300₮) but slower and less extensive network of electric trolleybuses. To use the municipal and trolleybuses you need a U card, which can be purchased at many kiosks and shops for 3000₮. You load credit and touch it to the reader when entering the bus. If you touch it on the reader when getting off you can get a second ride for free if you board within 30 minutes. As in any city, be wary of pickpockets on the buses, especially when the buses are crowded. ===By foot=== Within the quite compact city center, walking is a viable option. Ulaanbaatar stretches from east to west along the aforementioned Peace Avenue, making navigating the center a cinch. Outside the center, in the ''ger'' districts, it's a different story entirely: a good city map, available at the airport or the '''Mongolian Government Map Shop''', is a must if you plan to go off the beaten path. You'll find the map shop directly on the Ikh Toiruu ring road: head west three blocks from the State Department Store, then turn right (north) at the first traffic light and proceed for about half a block. The Map Shop is behind the blue and yellow '''Elba Appliance''' store. ==See== Most tourist sites have a separate camera/video fee (typically 5000-10,000₮) in addition to the entrance fee. ===Monasteries=== [[File:Gandantegchinlen Monastery (2024).jpg|thumb|Gandantegchinlen Monastery]] [[File:Green Palace Bogd Khan 149185394 bfcc8db25b b.jpg|thumb|Bogd Khan Winter Palace]] * {{see | name=Choijin Lama Monastery | alt=Чойжин ламын сүм | url=http://www.templemuseum.mn/welcome | email=info@templemuseum.mn | address= | lat=47.91475 | long=106.91843 | directions=one block east of the National Library | phone=+976 11 32478 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:00-19:30 in summer, closed on Sundays and Mondays during winter | price=8000₮, students 3000₮, children 1500₮, photography fee 50,000₮ | wikipedia=Choijin Lama Temple | image=Choijin Lama Ulan Bator 149198611 958f1f4abd o.jpg | wikidata=Q2093410 | content=These five temples and five arched gates are a unique showcase of religious art and the history of Buddhism in Mongolia, a gem of 20th century Mongolian cultural heritage, and a fine example of Buddhist architecture. Choijin Lama Monastery was active until 1938, was inscribed in 1941 on the list of historical and cultural monuments, and became a museum the following year. In the main temple you'll find the sculpture of the Choijin Lama and the embalmed mummy of his teacher, as well as the great coral mask of Begtse, created under the direction of protectors using over 6,000 pieces of coral. Elsewhere in the complex, '''Yadam Temple''' and '''Amgalan Temple''' contain rare artifacts made by the famous Mongolian artist and sculptor, Zanabazar. }} * {{see | name=Gandantegchinlen Monastery | alt=Gandantegchinlen Khiid or Gandan Monastery | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92248 | long=106.89534 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=4000₮ | wikipedia=Gandantegchinlen Monastery | image=Gandantegchinlen Monastery (2024).jpg | wikidata=Q965633 | content=The main monastery in the city has services around 10:00 every morning. It is one of the few monasteries in the country that were spared during the Communist purges of the 1930s. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Bogd Khan Winter Palace Museum | alt=Богд хааны ордон музей | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.89666 | long=106.90783 | directions=about {{km|2.5}} south of Chinggis Square, on Chinggis Avenue in Khan Uul district | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00-17:00 | price=Admission 8000₮, 50,000₮ photography fee | wikipedia=Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan | image=Green Palace Bogd Khan 149185394 bfcc8db25b b.jpg | wikidata=Q1579833 | content=Built between 1893 and 1903 by Mongolian masters, this palace was dedicated to the VIII Bogd Gegeen, head of Tibetan Buddhism and Khan of Mongolia from 1911 until 1924 (the last three years of which were as a constitutional monarch). Upon his death, the palace became the first national historical museum of Mongolia. The museum contains twelve collections showcasing valuable objects and works of art from the 17th to early 20th centuries (notable among which are gilded bronze sculptures by the first Bogd Javzundamba Zanabazar and his school, 19th- and 20th century ''thangka'' paintings, a ''Jugder'' painting of Ulaanbaatar in 1912, and works by modern Mongolian painter B. Sharav), as well as personal possessions of the Khan and his wife, Queen Dondogdulam.. }} * {{see | name=Chinggis Khaan National Museum | alt=Чингис хаан Үндэсний музей | url=https://chinggismuseum.com/en | email=info@chinggismuseum.org | address=J. Sambuu's street, 4th khoroo, Chingeltei District | lat=47.922528 | long=106.914917 | directions=a short distance north of the parliament building | phone=+976 70212222 | tollfree= | hours=09:00-17:00, closed on Mondays during the winter period (1 October to 15 May) | price=Adult 30000₮, families 20000₮, students 15000₮, children 0₮, photo shooting 20000₮ | wikidata=Q120021719 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=International Intellectual Museum | alt=IQ Museum | url=http://www.iqmuseum.mn | email=mitgel@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91746 | long=106.94172 | directions=on Peace Avenue in Bayanzürkh district, in front of East Center | phone=+976 11 461470 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-18:00 | price=Admission for non Mongolians 15.000₮, children 500₮ | wikipedia=International Intellectual Museum | image=International Intellectual Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q10926251 | lastedit=2024-12-05 | content=This museum not only displays but also manufactures and exports a wide variety of traditional Mongolian puzzle toys, logic games, handcrafted products, and souvenirs, and has launched over 80 international exhibitions and fairs in 50 countries. }} * {{see | name=Natural History Museum | alt=Байгалийн түүхийн музей | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.9233 | long=106.9059 | directions=Freedom Square, next to Tengis Cinema and directly behind State Department Store; at the site of the former Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs | phone=+976 7000 0171 | tollfree= | hours=Tu–Su 10:00-18:00 (closed Monday) | price=Admission 2000₮ | wikipedia=Mongolian Natural History Museum | image=Natural History Museum (Ulaanbaatar).jpg | wikidata=Q2154359 | content=The complete fossil of the ''Tarbosaurus bataar'' — a close cousin of the larger T. Rex that serves as the centerpiece of this museum's impressive collection — was stolen from Mongolia by American archaeologist Eric Prokopi and auctioned in [[New York City|New York]] for $1 million. The ensuing news coverage set off an international criminal case resulting in Prokopi's arrest and the return of dozens of dinosaur fossils to Mongolia by the U.S. government, which make up the bulk of this museum's collection. In the former '''Lenin Museum''' on Freedom Square, the museum contains a couple dozen other complete dinosaur fossils besides the ''Tarbosaurus'', all of which were found in the Gobi Desert. }} * {{see | name=National Museum of Mongolia | alt=Монголын Үндэсний музей | url=http://nationalmuseum.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.92036 | long=106.91538 | directions=just west of the Government House | phone=+976 70110911, +976 70110913 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 08:00-22:00, last entry 20:30 | price=Admission 5000₮, photography fee 5000₮ | wikipedia=National Museum of Mongolia | image=National Museum of Mongolia (2023).jpg | wikidata=Q2154176 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=This is the main museum in the capital and should be a first stop on any visit to the city, as it holds the most important artifacts of Mongolia's rich history dating back several thousand years. These include ethnographic displays of various Mongolian tribes, petroglyphs and cave drawings, Turkic monuments, weapons, armor, and various displays from the various eras of Mongolian history: the Hun and Mongol Empires, Chinese rule, the Communist era, and the democratic revolution of 1990. There are displays of self-portraits and personal possessions of Genghis Khan and other great khans of the Mongol Empire. Most displays are in English and Mongolian... }} * {{see | name=Marshall Zhukov House Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.917972 | long=106.953 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19615122 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ulaanbaatar City Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.91806 | long=106.93583 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ulaanbaatar City Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q2368924 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=A museum established from a building built by a Soviet merchant. It used to house the embassy of the Tuvan People's Republic and a printing house. }} ===Art museums and galleries=== [[File:Akshobhya by Zanabazar.jpg|thumb|Akshobhya by Zanabazar, in the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts]] * {{see | name=National Art Gallery of Mongolia | alt= | url=http://www.art-gallery.mn/mn | email=info@art-gallery.mn | address= | lat=47.91961 | long=106.92109 | directions=at the Central Cultural Palace on Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 327177 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-18:00 | price=Admission 2000₮, students 1000₮, children 500₮ | wikipedia=National Art Gallery of Mongolia | image=National Art Gallery of Mongolia.jpg | wikidata=Q17034485 | content=A surprisingly good modern art museum that displays the vibrancy of the local art scene. There are temporary exhibits throughout the year as well as a permanent collection. }} * {{see | name=The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum | alt=Занабазарын нэрэмжит Дүрслэх урлагийн музей | url=http://www.zanabazarmuseum.mn/ | email=info@zanabazarfam.mn | address= | lat=47.92013 | long=106.90911 | directions=two blocks west of the Government House, on Barilgachdin Square | phone=+976 11 326060 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-17:00 (summer), 10:00-17:00 (winter) | price=Admission 5000₮ | image=The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q2370206 | content=The collection includes items from the Stone Age to the 20th century. Particularly interesting is the collection of Buddhist art from the 17th century and later.. }} * {{see | name=Mongolian Art Center for Children's Creativity | alt=Монголын хүүхдийн урлан бүтээх төв | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.926788 | long=106.916114 | directions=Ankara Street | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mongol Art Gallery | alt=Монгол Арт Галерейн | url= | email= | address=Dunjingarav Street | lat=47.904528 | long=106.948806 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q123347067 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Russian Science and Culture Center | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tokyo Street | lat=47.92625 | long=106.935278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Russian Science and Culture Center.jpg | wikidata=Q130382522 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Art House Center | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/arthouse.mongolia/ | email=arthousemn@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.920312 | long=106.907411 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-15 | content= }} ===Monuments and memorials=== [[File:Monumento ruso en Ulan Bator, Mongolia.jpg|thumb|Zaisan War Memorial]] * {{see | name=Sükhbaatar Square | alt=Сүхбаатарын талбай | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91898 | long=106.91777 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chinggis Square | image=Panorama Ulan Bator 13.JPG | wikidata=Q1348864 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=The big open space in the center of the city with an equestrian '''statue of Damdin Sükhbaatar''', warrior-hero of the 1921 People's Revolution, as well as a seated statue of Genghis Khan that sits at the door of the '''Government House'''. Inside the Government House is a small museum with artifacts from the Mongol Empire and a reproduction of Genghis Khan's White Peace Banners of State (the Soviets had the originals destroyed in the 1930s)... }} * {{see | name=Zaisan Memorial | alt=Зайсан толгой | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.885 | long=106.91564 | directions=about 3½ km directly south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Zaisan Memorial | image=World War II in Ulaanbaatar (6228546502).jpg | wikidata=Q144444 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=A huge Communist-era monument on a hill near the city depicting the Russian and Mongolian heroes who fought together during the First and Second World Wars. Nowadays it is a popular viewpoint where you can see over the whole city. There's also a huge Buddhist statue at the bottom. }} * {{see | name=Friendship Railways Height | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.909418 | long=106.883918 | directions=Right across the road in front of Ulaanbaatar Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Friendship Railways Height.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} Despite news about the removal of Lenin's statue, Ulaanbaatar still boasts a wealth of other interesting statues and public art beyond what's mentioned above. Prominently, former Communist leaders Choibalsan and Tsedenbal are memorialized north of the Government House, as is Sanjaasürengiin Zorig, leader of the 1990 democratic revolution, at a location southwest of Chinggis Square. There are also many lesser-known statues scattered through the city: there's a bust of Stalin inside a beer garden south of Chinggis Square, some old Soviet murals on the side of apartment buildings north of the Bogd Khan Winter Palace, and you'll even see The Beatles and the villain from the movie ''Predator'' holding court in front of the State Department Store and in front of a small office building 100 m northeast of there, respectively. ===Sport venues=== * {{see | name=AIC Steppe Arena | alt= | url=https://steppearena.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.847555 | long=106.793059 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65066205 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Buyant Ukhaa Sport Palace | alt= | url=http://www.sport.gov.mn/ | email= | address=Ulziit Road | lat=47.85444 | long=106.78417 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4155958 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=UG Arena | alt= | url=https://ugarena.mn/ | email=marketing@urangan.mn | address= | lat=47.904667 | long=106.899266 | directions= | phone= +976 77712111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ===Parks, gardens and nature=== * {{see | name=National Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bayanzürkh | lat=47.898528 | long=106.947667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q131416188 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ulaanbaatar Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=corner of Narnii Road and Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.909162 | long=106.916782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ulaanbaatar Park.jpg | wikidata=Q131424861 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Yavuuhulan Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address=Noyon Hutagt Danzanravjaa Street | lat=47.918333 | long=106.909111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q131424582 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Korea-Mongolia Friendship Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address=Dambadarjaa Street, Sükhbaatar | lat=47.984333 | long=106.949694 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Korea-Mongolia Friendship Forest | wikidata=Q131424610 | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Amgalan Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.910082 | long=107.000472 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Günjiin Nüden Lake | alt=Гүнжийн Нүдэн Нуур | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.949191 | long=106.838245 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Do== ===Outdoors=== *'''Bogd Uul''', the mountain ridge south of town, is a great place for a hike. To get there, take the #7, #33 or #43 bus from in front of the Bayangol Hotel to the south end of the line. From there, the road continues south about 100 m, whereupon you'll come to a checkpoint. Proceed, bear left when the road forks, and you'll soon find yourself in a ''ger'' camp with a small stream flowing north. This is where the hiking path itself begins, on the left (east) side of the stream. At the top of the ridge, veer west and proceed through the woods for an easy amble of about two or three hours (you'll come to a high point about 500 m past the turn). At the end of that stretch, you have the option of either branching off to the west or else continuing straight and slightly east to Bogd Uul Mountain (this path is marked with orange paint marks on the trees). That part of the trip is quite long — about 10 km one-way — and more challenging, with varying elevations. *{{do | name=Sky Resort | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/skyresortofficial/ | email=info@skyresort.mn | address= | lat=47.8728 | long=107.04537 | directions=13 km from city center. Go south to Zaisan, then east along the river past the President's Residence | phone=+976 11 320345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=07:00-22:00 | price=Under US$20 | wikipedia=Sky Resort | wikidata=Q7537479 | content=A winter sports resort offering downhill skiing, snowboarding, lifts, equipment rental, ski and snowboard school, and an onsite restaurant. There's a free bus from the Drama Center (next to the Grand Khan Irish Pub) with departures between 08:00 and 19:30 (frequent service on weekends, more sporadic midweek; check schedule to verify bus times). }} [[Image:Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg|thumb|Naadam Festival in July]] ===Festivals=== * {{do | name=Naadam | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Sports Stadium (Mongolia) | image=Naadam Festival 2024 Opening Ceremony.jpg | wikidata=Q1451543 | content=The largest and most famous festival in Mongolia, Naadam is held annually from July 11-13 and consists of competitions in the three traditional Mongolian sports of wrestling, horse-racing and archery. The {{marker|type=do|name=National Sports Stadium|lat=47.90258|long=106.91538}}, besides being the main venue for the festival, also serves as the country's main football and baseball stadium as well as a venue for occasional concerts and cultural events. }} * {{do | name=Playtime Festival | alt= | url=https://playtimefestival.com/home_eng | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q121432894 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Mongolia's largest annual outdoor music festival. }} ===Theatre and performance=== * {{do | name=National Academic Drama Theater | alt=Улсын драмын эрдмийн театр | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91507 | long=106.91473 | directions=in the red Georgian building just south of the Post Office on Chinggis Avenue | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Prices vary, generally cheap for Mongolian-language performances | wikipedia=Mongolian State Academic Drama Theatre | image=State Academic Drama Theater.jpg | wikidata=Q6899648 | content=Mostly presents Mongolian plays in drama, musicals, or children's performances. Tickets are sold at the "KACC" office in front.... }} * {{do | name=ASA Arena | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91206 | long=106.90776 | directions=on Seoul Street south of the State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=ASA Arena | image=ASA Arena.jpg | wikidata=Q56284752 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Home to the world-famous Mongolian contortionists, where most of the world's professional contortionists get their start. The circus also features animals, jugglers, and other entertainment. }} * {{do | name=State Opera and Ballet Theater | alt=National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Mongolia | url=http://www.opera-ballet.mn | email=opera_ballet@yahoo.com | address=Chinggis Square | lat=47.91843 | long=106.91924 | directions=in the pinkish building on the southeast side of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Box office W-Su 10:00-13:00, 14:00-17:00 | price=Prices vary by performance, local productions can be very inexpensive | wikipedia=Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet | image=Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet.jpg | wikidata=Q559620 | content=While visiting Chinggis Square, it may be worthwhile to check out the board in front of this theatre to see if there is an upcoming performance. Most performances are at 17:00 Saturday and Sunday. Local performances may not be great, but are very cheap. Ballet troupes and opera companies from Russia also occasionally visit.. }} * {{do | name=Tumen Ekh | alt= | url=https://tumen-ekh.mn/ | email=info@tumen-ekh.mn | address= | lat=47.91277 | long=106.91609 | directions=south of the Main Square, west of Shangri-La hotel, in the Children's Palace | phone=+976 11 322238 | tollfree= | hours=Daily performances from May-Oct at 18:00, on weekdays in Oct-Nov 15th | price=30,000₮ | lastedit=2023-08-28 | content=A traditional dance ensemble founded in 1989 that performs dances, music and religious ceremonies for audiences of mostly foreign tourists. Performances last about an hour and are far from the usual tourist schlock: these very skilled artists take their work seriously and have been on tour in the U.S., UK and other countries. }} * {{do | name=Mongolian Theatre Museum | alt= | url=https://mongoliantheatremuseum.com/ | email= | address=Amar St | lat=47.9199 | long=106.9195 | directions=on the 3rd floor of the Central Cultural Palace Building | phone=+976 11 31 1320 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6899660 | lastedit=2023-12-19 | content=A performing arts museum founded in 1991 presenting the history of Mongolian film and theatre.. }} * {{do | name=Wrestling Palace | alt=Bökhiin Örgöö | url= | email= | address=Bayanzürkh | lat=47.917917 | long=106.935278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bökhiin Örgöö | image=Wrestling Palace.jpg | wikidata=Q2154011 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=Sports complex that is home to the Mongolian wrestling competitions and also hosts music concerts. }} * {{do | name=Ganzam Palace | alt=Ганзам палас | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue | lat=47.915134 | long=106.885202 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Ganzam Palace.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{do | name=HUN Theater | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/HUNTheatre/ | email=info.huntheatre@gmail.com | address=Sky Resort Road | lat=47.879228 | long=107.042646 | directions= | phone=+976 77774488 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} * {{do | name=Youth Theater | alt= | url=http://youththeatre.mn/ | email=info@youththeatre.mn | address= | lat=47.936977 | long=106.813443 | directions= | phone=+97675991133 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ===Miscellaneous=== * Get an inexpensive '''massage''' at one of the many massage spas on Peace Avenue. * {{do | name=National Amusement Park | alt=Үндэсний соёл амралтын хүрээлэн | url=https://www.facebook.com/park.mongolia | email= | address= | lat=47.90842 | long=106.9237 | directions=500 m south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:00-19:00 year round | price=1000₮ to enter plus extra for each ride | image=Mongolian National Amusement Park Castle.JPG | wikidata=Q110014267 | content=Open since 1969, the park today features a steel roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, a castle surround by an artificial lake, and bowling. }} ==Learn== The {{marker|type=listing|name=[http://mongoliacenter.org/ American Center for Mongolian Studies]|lat=47.91964|long=106.90870|zoom=18}} (ACMS) provides in-depth insight via an academic approach into Mongolian culture. The center has a study room and library of Mongolia-related material, with Internet access. It is on the campus of the '''Mongolian National University''', on the third floor of Building #5. As well, there are several '''Mongolian-language schools''' throughout the city. On Facebook look for various learning clubs or English-learning local clubs offering local meetups and you may attend some of them to learn local culture or to participate in interesting local activities. ==Buy== [[File:Socialist architecture (6216616617).jpg|thumb|Post-WWII architecture in the city center]] Cash is becoming less and less common, with many shops, eateries, and even street vendors and taxi drivers accepting bank transfer (using SMS or banking apps), QR code payment (multiple systems in use), and debit/credit cards. As a visitor, have cash and a paywave-enabled card. It's relatively easy to find an ATM to withdraw cash. Most ATMs accept foreign credit and debit cards to withdraw ''tögrög'' (the local currency) as long as you have informed your bank ahead of time as to your Mongolian travel plans; most will charge you a foreign currency conversion fee of about 3%. Besides Visa, other card types are also accepted, but not as widely: for example, the machines in the Central Post Office and along the main street will not accept foreign MasterCards, although they bear the logo. The only ATM that accepts Cirrus cards is the one at the airport. UB also has many banks and exchange offices where ''tögrög'' can be obtained. Golomt and TDB are the most reliable banks for currency exchange, the former of which can give up to US$500 per day cash advance on MasterCard and Visa and also accepts American Express. Exchange offices can mainly be found along Peace Avenue in the city center, including one on the ground floor of the '''State Department Store'''. However, you'll find better rates at the one on the second floor of the '''Flower Center''', on Peace Avenue one block west of the Post Office. Lastly, major hotels like the '''Ulaanbaatar Hotel''' will exchange money 24/7 at the reception, which may be your only option if you arrive very late in the day. Keep in mind that you'll need a form of ID to exchange foreign currency - a passport will do. See [[Mongolia#Money]] for exchange rates for the ''tögrög''. ===Major shopping centers=== * {{buy | name=State Department Store | alt=Улсын Их Дэлгүүр | url=https://www.facebook.com/UlsiinIkhDelguur | email= | address= | lat=47.917028 | long=106.90625 | directions=west of Chinggis Square on Peace Avenue | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-22:00 | price= | wikidata=Q125944026 | content=Formerly a state-owned department store (hence the name), today it is the busiest luxury shopping mall in the city, with everything from groceries to cashmere to TVs sold on all six floors of the building. Though privately owned nowadays, the customer service still has a certain impersonal, bureaucratic feel. Check out the fifth floor for the largest souvenir shops in UB. }} * {{buy | name=3rd & 4th Microdistrict | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92285 | long=106.88144 | directions=northwest side of Gandan, 2 km north of the train station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=You'll find several malls, name-brand stores, restaurants, supermarkets, curbside booths, and a movie theater at UB's largest shopping district. Selection ranges from luxury brands down to cheap Chinese imports. Traffic congestion is heavy in this part of the city. }} * {{buy | name=Emart Department stores | alt=Emart | url= | email= | address= | lat=47 | long=106 | directions=at the north of Chingis Khaan hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2022-10-15 | image=Ulaanbaatar (22933227425).jpg | content=This subsidiary of the South Korean retailer has three department stores in Ulaanbaatar that offer mostly South Korean and some domestic goods. It has a good groceries department as well. The first store is just north of Chingis Khaan Hotel, the second is in Bayangol district, and the third is in Khan Uul district. }} * {{buy | name=Galleria Ulaanbaatar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/GalleriaUlaanbaatar | email= | address=Ikh Surguuli Street | lat=47.920583 | long=106.919111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130259098 | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Gegeenten Entertainment Center | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaisan Street | lat=47.897099 | long=106.908772 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Gegeenten Entertainment Center.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Hunnu Mall | alt=Хүннү Молл | url=https://hunnumall.mn/ | email=info@hunnumall.mn | address=Naadamchid Road | lat=47.878675 | long=106.851142 | directions= | phone=+976 77112222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ===Markets=== [[File:Khar Zakh (Black Market), Ulan Bator, Mongolia.jpg|thumb|Items for sale at the Naran Tuul (Black Market)]] * {{buy | name=Narantuul Market | alt=Black Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.90814 | long=106.94645 | directions=3 km east of the children's park on Narni Zam road | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Closed on Monday | price= | wikipedia=Narantuul Market | image=Narantuul Market.jpg | wikidata=Q130051111 | content=The main market for most of the city's residents, Naran Tuul is the place to go to shop like a local. Haggle over cheap clothes, toys, fur hats, vintage Soviet propaganda pins, or anything you can imagine in a vast, partially indoor retail emporium a 10-minute bus or taxi ride from the city center. There are also several slightly more upscale shopping centers just west of the market. Only take a minimum of cash with you in a money belt or inner jacket pocket and leave all valuables at your accommodation, as pickpockets are common here. }} ===Souvenir shops=== Ulaanbaatar has a host of souvenir shops aimed at both Western and East Asian tourists, mostly along Peace Avenue west of Chinggis Square. Traditional clothes, boots and hats, cashmere garments, jewelry, leather wall hangings, miniature ''gers'', bow-and-arrow sets, and paintings are among the typical inventory. While the quality of the goods varies, prices are usually high. * {{buy | name=Flower Center | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91691 | long=106.91218 | directions=corner of Peace Avenue and Ikh Toiruu ring road, west of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the larger souvenir shops in the city; a broad selection, but a bit pricey. There is a money exchange center on the second floor. }} * {{buy | name=Mary & Martha | alt= | url=http://www.mmmongolia.com/ | email=info.mmmongolia@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91739 | long=106.91011 | directions=north of the State Department Store bus stop, look for the signs | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small free-trade shop full of beautiful handmade souvenirs, handbags, and wall hangings. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Librairie Papillon | url=https://www.facebook.com/librairie.papillon/ | email= | address= | lat=47.9224 | long=106.9179 | directions=on University Avenue, just past the main Mongolian National University building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers high-quality English-language books about Mongolia, resources for learning the Mongolian language, and a selection of classic literature to read on your journey. The atmosphere feels like taking a little break from Mongolia and entering [[France]]. }} * {{buy | name=Mike's Bookstore | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/Books-in-English-316361135178963/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91585 | long=106.9051 | directions=south of the Bayangol Hotel, west of the New Building | phone=+976 9903 6703 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used books are bought and sold here. There's even a buyback policy. Selection is mostly but not exclusively English-language. }} ===Miscellaneous=== * {{buy | name=Seven Summits Outdoor Shop | alt= | url=http://sevensummits-shop.com | email=maira@activemongolia.com | address= | lat=47.916263 | long=106.915070 | directions=on Peace Avenue 50 m west of Chinggis Square, in a row of shops on the south side of the street | phone=+976 11 329456 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-10-09 | content=If you're looking for gear you can't find elsewhere, ''e.g.'' an adaptor for a screw-on stove to use the ubiquitous clip-on cylinders, since screw-on types seem to be unavailable anywhere, Seven Summits is your place. They're a bit on the pricey side, though. }} ==Eat== Ulaanbaatar has a good range of options serving Mongolian, Asian (particularly Korean and Chinese), and Western cuisine — and at decent prices. For instance, you can get perfectly good pizza for 5000₮, and even a night out at a fancy French cafe shouldn't pass 30,000₮. Consider splurging on a couple of good meals here, especially if you're headed for a long trek into the country where fresh vegetables and the like are often hard to come by and prohibitively expensive. Best of all, UB's rapidly growing wealth has meant a steady procession of ever newer, ever higher-quality restaurants, as well as the appearance of international chains like '''KFC''', '''Round Table Pizza''', and '''Cinnabon'''. === Vegan === Mongolia's Buddhist history means that vegan and vegetarian restaurants are plentiful, and quality is high. Traditional Mongolian foods like ''buuz'' (steamed dumplings) and ''khushuur'' (fried dumplings) have vegan versions available at vegan restaurants; if you have dietary restrictions, you won't have to miss out on traditional food. '''In the city centre around the Sukhbaatar Square''' * {{eat | name=Luna Blanca | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/LunaBlancaRestaurant/ | email=luna@lunablanca.org | address= | lat=47.91981 | long=106.91393 | directions=across the street from and just west of the National Museum near Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 9907-7885 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 11:00-20:00, Sa-Su 12:00-20:00 | price=Around 4000₮ (Feb 2018) | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Good-quality vegan food. Attached to a Buddhist meditation centre, therefore short opening hours (closes around 9pm).<br />If you're looking to self-cater they also sell a modest selection of groceries including vegan sausages. }} * {{eat | name=Vegan House Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=south-east corner of the intersection of Ikh Toiruu and Seoul St | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Numerous vegan options including very good buuz. }} * {{eat | name=Loving Hut - Barilgachdyn Talbai | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=across the street and slightly west from Zanabazar Museum | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=The best of several Loving Huts scattered across UB. }} * {{eat | name=Agnista Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=in a small business center in the middle of a city block just West of the Parliament Building | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Wide variety of Mongolian and Western food, as well as frozen buuz that you can bring home. }} * {{eat | name=Agnista Vegan Food | alt= | url= | email= | address=706 Seoul St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Similar to the other Agnista but with less of a crowd during lunchtime. }} * {{eat | name=Bosco Verde | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=beside ASA Arena | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content=Italian vegetarian restaurant }} ===Budget=== [[File:Mongolian Street Food.jpg|thumb|Mongolian street food]] Throughout Ulaanbaatar are many small canteens ''(Гуанз)'' and coffeeshops ''(Цайны Газар)''. Try one of these for cheap Mongolian food. ''Buuz'' usually costs 400-600₮. As well, most universities (particularly the '''Mongolian National University''' and the '''Mongolian University of Science and Technology''') have good cheap cafeterias with meals from 1800₮ to about 2500₮. '''[https://www.khaanbuuz.mn/ Khaan Buuz]''' (Хаан Бууз) serves up set meals of Mongolian favorites (buuz is a Mongolian meat dumpling) from 5000₮, just look for the lime green facades. '''CU''' and '''GS25''' are ubiquitous Korean-style convenience stores that offer good cheap fast food and eating space at their stores; prices range from 2000-8500₮. Be circumspect of frozen foods, check for freezer burn, and products tainted from power failures and spoilage. ====Around the State Department Store==== * {{eat | name=Joe's Corner Burgers | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91826 | long=106.90632 | directions=tucked between the apartment buildings behind the State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Stops serving around 21:00 | price=4000-5500₮ | lastedit= | content=Burgers and hot dogs, with fries: probably the best value in UB for this kind of American fare. }} ====East Ulaanbaatar near the International Intellectual Museum==== * {{eat | name=Papa Cafe | alt= | url= | email=papacafe2010@gmail.com | address=Их Монгол Улсын гудамж | lat=47.91908 | long=106.93987 | directions=second building east from the British Embassy on Peace Avenue, next to a parking lot, on the second floor | phone=+976 11 461687 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-21:00, Sa 09:00-21:00 | price=4000-7000₮ | lastedit= | content=Burgers, chicken burgers, espresso and baked goods. On Saturday they open at 09:00 and serve a breakfast special of one large waffle with fresh fruit, ice cream, bacon, Mongolian blueberry jam and syrup, plus coffee and other drinks. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{eat | name=Chinggis Club | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92653 | long=106.91445 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00-24:00 | price=US$10 | content=The '''Chinggis Brewery'''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s in-house restaurant, serving German cuisine and (of course) their own locally brewed light and dark beers on tap. }} * {{eat | name=Hishig Mongol Zoog | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91300 | long=106.86367 | directions=on Peace Avenue several kilometers west of the State Department Store, near the third hospital | phone=+976 7017 8158 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$6-10 | content=If you want to experience authentic Mongolian cuisine, this is the place. Serves roasted sheep head, roasted ribs, ''buuz'', and dried meat soup. No foreign-language menu or staff, though. }} *{{eat | name=Millie's Espresso | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Millies-Espresso-195142818141/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91433 | long=106.9179 | directions=on the west side of the Choijin Lama Monastery | phone=+976 11 33 0338 | tollfree= | hours=08:00-20:00 | price=US$10 | content=Good selection of American-style coffeeshop fare, including some vegetarian options. Free Wi-Fi. }} *{{eat | name=Nayra Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nayra-Cafe/184137758298553 | email= | address= | lat=47.91991 | long=106.90754 | directions=two blocks west of the Government House | phone= +976 11 31 7098 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=opens 08:00 | price=Most under 8000₮ | content=Good pizza, sandwiches, and coffee. Free WiFi. }} * {{eat | name=Venus Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92617 | long=106.91010 | directions=two blocks east and then three blocks north of the State Department Store, on the left a few doors past the French Bakery | phone=+976 1327496 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=lunch, dinner | price=US$10 for dinner, lunch set menu US$5 | content=Malaysian specialties including masala, roti, and spicy curries. }} * {{eat | name=Modern Nomads | alt=several restaurants in town | url=http://www.modernnomads.mn/index.php?r=1&lang=en | email= | address= | lat=47.9138 | long=106.9218 | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent variety and quality for both locals and tourists. Good, clean toilets are an added bonus. |lastedit=2018-02-28}} * {{eat | name=Hurrem Sultan Turkish Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.904976 | long=106.911325 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Hurrem Sultan Turkish Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Turkish restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Pakistani & Indian Cuisine | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Halalfoodrestaurantmn | email= | address=Baruun Selbe Street | lat=47.918296 | long=106.907029 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pakistani & Indian Cuisine.jpg | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Halal Indian Pakistani restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.904049 | long=106.911058 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Indian restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Lanzhou Beef Noodles | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chinggis Khan Avenue | lat=47.905213 | long=106.911432 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Lanzhou Beef Noodles (Khan Uul, Ulaanbaatar).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal Chinese restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Lale Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mongolian National University, L. Enebish Avenue | lat=47.925556 | long=106.892034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Lale Restaurant.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-04 | content=Halal restaurant, part of the Mongolian National University }} ===Splurge=== It's hard to spend outrageous sums of money eating out in Ulaanbaatar: the most expensive meals in the city will be around 60,000₮ a person. That is, unless you're drinking: whiskey or any other non-vodka liquors can be a bit pricey. * '''Caucasia:''' Just behind the circus. Serving Armenian and Georgian cuisine. Excellent quality. * '''Chojin''': In front of the Chojin Lama Museum on the ground floor of an office building. Serves a small but excellent selection of Mediterranean dishes. Very popular business dinner location for the locals. Reservation recommended. * '''Hana Japanese Restaurant'''. On Chinggis Avenue next to the National Library, on the first floor of an office building. Impossible to spot from the outside, just go in and ask at the reception. You get advised to follow a fire security stairway up. Despite the non-glamorous arrival, the Hana is a high-end Japanese restaurant. Elegant atmosphere. Excellent Japanese dishes including udon soups, sushi and barbecue. Meals up to 30.000 T. Including starters and drinks, be prepared to spend 50.000-60.000 T. * {{eat | name=California Restaurant | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91296 | long=106.90093 | directions=on Seoul Street, west of the circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=10,000-30,000₮ per meal | content=Extensive menu of both foreign and Mongolian specialties. Beautifully decorated, high-quality food including vegetarian specialties (good tofu!) It's a bit small, but in the summer there is additional outside seating. Reservations are advised. }} * {{eat | name=Hazara North Indian Restaurant | alt= | url=http://hazara.mn | email=hazaraub@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91728 | long=106.93516 | directions=behind the Wrestling Palace | phone=+976 99195007, +976 11 480214 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From 10,000&nbsp;₮ | content=Serving spicy North Indian, Kashmiri, and Afghani food since 1997. Food is all halal, with vegan options available. Well-decorated restaurant and costumed waitresses can make you think you are in [[Delhi]] instead of Mongolia. }} * {{eat | name=Los Bandidos | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.92601 | long=106.91809 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road, not far north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 1131 4167 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$7-10 | content=Mexican-Indian fusion: don't knock it until you taste the spicy chicken masala or crispy ''taquitos''. The prices are higher now than they used to be, but the atmosphere has improved along with it. }} * {{eat | name=Namaste Indian Restaurant | alt= | url=http://namaste.mn/ | email=namaste.ub@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.92419 | long=106.93752 | directions=at the Flower Hotel | phone=+976 99270957 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=20,000₮ | content=Mongolia's first halal-certified restaurant, serves some of the best Indian food in the city. There is another location on the Outer Ring Road in the Impex building. }} *{{eat | name=Turning Point Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91500 | long=106.90708 | directions=on Tserendorj Street, three blocks west of Chinggis Square via Peace Avenue and then half a block south | phone=+976 7011 9940 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Sandwiches for 12,000₮ | content=Jazz-themed restaurant and bar featuring modern decor, international cuisine, and a wide range of beer, wine and cocktails. Regular live entertainment. }} ===Grocery stores=== * {{eat | name=Good Price Supermarket | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91293 | long=106.90070 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-22:00 | price= | content=Catering to expats and well-heeled locals, Good Price is Mongolia's most reliable source of luxuries such as peanut butter, breakfast cereals, canned beans, and cheese. But don't be fooled by the place's astoundingly inaccurate name: these luxuries come at a much higher cost than at any other supermarket in the country. }} * {{eat | name=Mercury Food Market | alt=Chinese Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91206 | long=106.90377 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Closed on Mondays | price= | content=This small market in the city center is one of the best places to get imported fruits, vegetables, and packaged goods. }} * {{eat | name=eMart | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.923129 | long=106.934337 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The eMart store at the Chingis Khaan hotel is a subsidiary of the South Korean grocery chain that sells medium- to good-quality groceries, especially good vegetables and fruits. The second branch is at the Urgoo cinema in Bayangol district and the third branch is at Zaisan. The second floor is consumer goods and the first floor is grocery. }} * {{eat | name=eMart 2nd branch | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.922927 | long=106.867317 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The eMart store is a subsidiary of the South Korean grocery chain that sells medium- to good-quality of groceries, especially good vegetables and fruits. The second branch is at the Urgoo cinema in Bayangol district and the third branch is at Zaisan. The second floor is consumer goods and first floor is grocery. }} * {{eat | name=State Department Store | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.916721 | long=106.906278 | directions=West of Sukhbaatar Square on Peace Avenue, this 6-floor building has its English name prominently displayed. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The State Department Store is the main store of Nomin food chain stores. Groceries are on the first floor. There are a book shop and souvenir shops on the fifth floor. In the intermediate floors clothing, electronics, and house accessories are available. Food items can be returned within 24 hours and other non-food items can be returned within few weeks or months depending on the type of merchandise. The receipt must be presented. }} ==Drink== === Bars === Nightlife in Ulaanbaatar is surprisingly wild, especially on Wednesday, Saturday, and (above all) Friday nights, when finding a seat is nearly impossible. If you like raving the night away to trance, techno, electronica, and house music, this is the scene for you. Beer in clubs costs about 3500₮, while other drinks such as vodka are sold by quantity: for example a 100g vodka costs about 4500₮. According to state law, all clubs and pubs (bars) must stop serving alcohol after midnight and close at 03:00, but some clubs stay open (and continue serving!) until 04:00. On the other hand, the prohibition against serving alcohol on the 1st of each month is universally adhered to, even if it falls on a weekend. Especially after dark, and especially on the aforementioned three busiest days of the week, it's best to go out clubbing in groups rather than alone: not only will you be less likely to run afoul of shady characters, but authorities take a hard line against public intoxication, and the Mongolian drunk tank is not a pleasant place to be. As well, the clubs in the 3rd district and the Sansar microdistrict are best avoided. Be sure to apologize if you hit someone or step on their feet accidentally, because this is a rather considerable breach of local etiquette. If you step on someone's feet accidentally, offer to shake their hand. This is Mongolian custom, and will also win you praise and respect amongst locals. *{{drink | name=Ambrosia Restaurant | url=https://www.facebook.com/ambrosiaeventhall/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91343 | long=106.91548 | directions=across Chinggis Avenue from KFC, south of the Post Office | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=3000₮ for a beer | content=A nice little restaurant that turns into a club at night, with good drink specials. Popular with foreigners. }} *{{drink | name=Ikh Mongol | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91322 | long=106.90792 | directions=next to the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=3500₮ a half-liter and up | content=Patrons of this brewpub can choose between the main dining area, the fancy VIP upstairs, or secluded tables in the back. Most weekends have concerts from Mongolian bands. In addition to the house brews served on tap, the more popular Mongolian brands are served. }} *{{drink | name=Mass | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mass-Night-Club/263191093695809 | email= | address= | lat=47.91953 | long=106.87466 | directions=in the 3rd/4th microdistrict | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the aforementioned clubs that likes to stay open illicitly past 03:00. Caters to a younger clientele. }} *{{drink | name=Strings | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Strings/208178542535499 | email= | address= | lat=47.91827 | long=106.88992 | directions=in the White House Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A somewhat notorious club frequented by foreigners as well as Asian businessmen. }} If clubbing isn't your thing, UB also has its share of more sedate pubs to choose from. *{{drink | name=Le Bistrot Francais | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/bistrotfrancaisUB | email= | address= | lat=47.92385 | long=106.91794 | directions=on the west side of University Street, a block north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 32 0022 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Enjoy a ''pastis'' and have a nice dinner at the only French restaurant in Ulaanbaatar. }} *{{drink | name=Brauhaus | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91302 | long=106.90284 | directions=on Seoul Street past the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Half-liters run around 2500₮ | image=Brauhaus Exterior.jpg | content=Goes for a German brewhouse look (hence the name) and succeeds. This bar is big but usually not noisy. It serves X Beer, a quite tasty local brew. }} *{{drink | name=Dublin Irish Pub | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91377 | long=106.90632 | directions=on Seoul Street between the State Department Store and the Circus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open until midnight | price= | content=Closer to an actual Irish bar than most. }} *{{drink | name=Grand Khaan Irish Pub | alt= | url=https://gk-irishpub.mn/?lang=en | email= | address= | lat=47.91529 | long=106.9142 | directions=next to the National Drama Theater, south of the Post Office | phone= | tollfree= | hours=12:00-22:00 | price=4000₮ for a beer, 15,000₮ for a meal | image=Grand Khaan Irish Pub.jpg | content=A comfortable sports bar and grill with English-speaking staff. }} === Cafes === Ulaanbaatar's coffee scene is exploding, with multiple Korean coffee chains as well as more boutique offerings available throughout the city. * {{drink | name=ROC Caffeine Bar | url=https://roc.mn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A local coffee franchise with its own roastery and 5 branches. Probably the best coffee to be had in the city. |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Caffe Bene | url=https://www.caffebene.mn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Korean coffee chain offering Korean-style desserts |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Tom N Toms Coffee | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100079466408969 | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-25 | content=another Korean coffee chain. }} * {{drink | name=Tous Les Jours | url=https://www.facebook.com/TousLesJoursMongolia/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Korean bakery chain with a good coffee section |lastedit=2023-03-25}} * {{drink | name=Cafe de Lolita | alt=Кафе де Лолита | url=https://www.facebook.com/cafe.de.lolitaa | email= | address=Chingeltei | lat=47.91875 | long=106.905361 | directions= | phone=+976 88006757 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Cafe de Lolita (2025).jpg | wikidata=Q121355565 | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=The first and only maid and anime café in Mongolia. }} ==Sleep== During the annual [[#Festivals|Naadam festival]] in July, it's almost impossible to get any kind of accommodation in UB without prior reservations. ===Budget=== Nowadays, budget accommodation in Ulaanbaatar tends to give the best deals for a traveller. Usually a bed in a clean dormitory costs US$5-10 and a double room should be under US$30 a night. Beyond what's listed below, another option for budget travellers who want a taste of authentic Mongolian culture yet are in a hurry or don't want to do longer trekking trips is a ''ger'' homestay with a herder family living in the countryside outside UB. Usually it is possible to participate in their daily life, ''e.g.'' milking cows or chopping wood. Horseback riding might be offered as well. Some travel agencies are able to establish contact with families, including '''[http://stonehorsemongolia.com/ecotourism/ger-stay/ Stone Horse Mongolia]''' and '''[http://www.gertoger.org Ger to Ger]'''. * {{sleep | name=Bolod's Guesthouse and Tours | url=http://bolodtours.com | email=u_borchy@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.92170 | long=106.90575| directions=across the street from Chinggis Square, enter through gate across from Post Office | phone=+976 99192407 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$7/night | lastedit=2017-06-20 | content=Still UB's most centrally located guesthouse, but the place has gone downhill: where cozy, high-ceilinged, clean and bright rooms once greeted you, you now have small, windowless rooms with noisy refrigerators that wake you up several times a night. There's also no kitchen anymore. The shower, which is in the entrance, is clean, but your privacy is only protected by a translucent glass. English-, Russian-, French-, and Italian-speaking staff are on duty during the daytime only. No credit cards are accepted. Bolod also provides tours at good prices and is known to arrange unique trips involving tank-driving and AK-47 shooting. }} * {{sleep | name=Chinggis Guest House and Tours | url= | email=chingisguest@magicnet.mn | address= | lat=47.91492 | long=106.90604| directions=on Chinggis Avenue behind the National Academic Drama Theatre and Bayangol Hotel | phone=+976 99271843, +976 11-325941 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm US$8, double or twin US$10 | content=Clean and comfortable rooms with breakfast, Internet, hot shower, and use of kitchen facilities included in the price. Centrally located and quiet. }} * {{sleep | name=Gana's Guesthouse | alt= | url= | email=gharchin@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.9216 | long=106.8991 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road northwest of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 1136 7343 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$5 in a 6-bed ''ger'' to $25 for a double in the newly built wing | content=This guesthouse stands out from the rest: rather than the standard setup of spartan dorm rooms with bunk beds, guests are accommodated in roomy ''gers'' set up on an airy porch in an excellent central location overlooking downtown UB, only two minutes on foot from Gandan Monastery. Run by a friendly, helpful family, who like most guesthouse proprietors also double as tour operators. }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Gobi | alt= | url= | email=golden_gobi@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91756 | long=106.90815 | directions=off Peace Avenue close to the State Department Store | phone=+976 11-322632, +976 96654496 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-322632 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorms US$6, private rooms from $19 | content=Another cheap and friendly place with free breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Green Steppe Mongolia Guest House | alt= | url= | email=greensteppemongolia@gmail.com | address= | lat=47.91735 | long=106.90871 | directions=50 m east of the State Department Store, off Peace Avenue | phone=+976 88033080, +976 88038388 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=anytime | checkout=noon | price=US$6/night | content=A small and quiet guesthouse comprising a couple of dorm rooms and two fully-furnished one-bedroom apartments, with a pleasant patio out back for picnicking. Friendly staff can organize tours to all parts of Mongolia. Complimentary amenities include breakfast in the morning and tea all day, wireless Internet as well as two wired computer terminals, lockers for guests, secure parking for motorbikes and bicycles, hot showers, and cheap laundry service. }} * {{sleep | name=Idre's Guesthouse | alt= | url=https://tours2mongolia.com/ | email=idrehouse@yahoo.com | address= | lat=47.91121 | long=106.89446 | directions=14253 Narnii Guur, about 2 km from Chinggis Square; take Seoul Street west then turn left | phone=+976 99112575 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Friendly family-run guesthouse with US$4 dorm beds. Rooms are clean, staff are helpful, and tickets and tours can be arranged without hassle. }} *{{sleep | name=Lotus Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://www.lotuschild.org/ | email= | address= | lat=47.92448 | long=106.91208 | directions=northwest of Chinggis Square, on Ikh Toiruu ring road across from School #5, on the second floor of Building 17 | phone=+976 11 325967 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$10-30/night | content=A nice and clean, if spartan, guesthouse run by the Lotus Foundation. Staff on duty 24 hours a day. Rooms have no high table except the very small one for the computer — and, importantly, '''no bedsheet''', and the quilt is not washed between clients! The shower room doesn't lock, and is closed by a translucent door. Free but unreliable WiFi. No credit cards accepted. }} * {{sleep | name=Oasis Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://intergam-oasis.com/ | email=info@intergam-oasis.com | address= | lat=47.91177 | long=106.98095 | directions=on the southeastern outskirts of town, about 5 km from Chinggis Square via Peace Avenue, near the Catholic church | phone=+976 11-463693 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-463693 | checkin= | checkout= | price=€10 | content=A modern-styled and lovingly furnished guesthouse run by a friendly German-Austrian couple who speak German, English, and Mongolian; lodging is in the spacious ''gers'' outside in the garden. Popular with "overlanders" travelling through Mongolia by car or motorcycle. Oasis' onsite café serves very good Western food including homemade cakes. There's a laundry room and hairdresser at the back of the building. }} * {{sleep | name=Petite Marmotte | alt= | url=http://mongolia-trip.com | email=resa@trekmongolie.com | address= | lat=47.9286 | long=106.9159 | directions=on Ikh Toiruu ring road north of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 70 11 03 02, +976 888 243 17 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Bed dorm €5; double room €15; family room €25 (4 to 6 people) | lastedit=2024-05-21 | content=A well-located and quiet guesthouse with rooms decorated in traditional Mongolian style. The friendly staff speaks English and French, and is headed by a former chef who lives onsite and sometimes regales guests with tasty homecooked meals. They can also arrange tours. Wi-fi, washing machine, breakfast included. }} * {{sleep | name=Sunpath Hostel | alt= | url=http://sunpath-mongolia.com | email=info@sunpath-mongolia.com | address= | lat=47.92461 | long=106.91266 | directions=across the street from the Central Post Office and Chinggis Square | phone=+976 99143722 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11-326323 | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$6/night | content=Sunpath is a centrally located, family-operated hostel perfect for foreign visitors offering free breakfast, free WiFi, and a publicly accessible wired computer terminal. Laundry service is available for a nominal charge. Kitchen facilities are open to guests. Sunpath's friendly staff organizes tours (having very good contacts with people living in the countryside) and are a wealth of information about Ulaanbaatar and Mongolia in general. }} * {{sleep | name=Town Yard Hostel | alt= | url= | email=oyuna_guest_house@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.919989 | long=106.893853 | directions=near Gandan Monastery | phone=+976 99889997, +976 99173469 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-08-13 | content=Hostel with fluent English-speaking owners situated just a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride to Chinggis Square. Free breakfast (with a menu that changes daily!) and free tea all day; kitchen facilities are also available for guests who'd like to self-cater other meals. They offer tours of (and can arrange accommodation at) [[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]], but unlike pretty much every other hostel, they usually lay off the hard sell. Laundry service is available, though it's a bit pricey. }} * {{sleep | name=UB Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://www.ubguesthouse.com/ | email= | address= | lat=47.91936 | long=106.91095 | directions=near Zanzabar Museum; entrance is in the rear of the building facing the Mongol Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm beds US$6; single room $15; twin room $18; double room $20 | content=A clean, well-organized, and centrally located hostel that also arranges tours around the country. E-mail ahead for a free pickup from the train station. A light breakfast, tea and coffee are included. In theory you can use the phone between 10:00 to 18:00, but don't count on it. There's only a hotplate in the kitchen. Only foreigners allowed. No in-room guests. Staff is not terribly friendly. }} * {{sleep | name=Zaya Guesthouse | alt= | url=http://zayahostel.com/ | email=backpackza@hotmail.com | address= | lat=47.91670 | long=106.90169 | directions=just off Peace Avenue west of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 331 575 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$20 for a single and US$27 for a double room | content=Zaya has two locations in the city center, both in newly renovated modern apartment buildings. The place is more suitable for a person looking for a clean and quiet place to sleep than a backpacker looking for a rowdy and noisy dorm. Free wireless Internet in the rooms. They also organize tours. }} ===Mid-range=== Ulaanbaatar has plenty of options for budget travellers and big spenders, but not so much for those in the middle. * {{sleep | name=Mandukhai Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.91758 | long=106.90362 | directions=near State Department Store | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=20,000-25,000₮/night | content=A nice inexpensive hotel in the city center. The hotel staff speaks little English, but rooms are large and include TV. Bathrooms are shared. }} * {{sleep | name=Royal House Hotel | alt=formerly Red Rose Hotel | url=http://www.royalhousehotel.mn/ | email= | address= | lat=47.915148 | long=106.944512 | directions=on the ring road east of the city center; take Peace Avenue east from Chinggis Square for about 2 km and then turn right | phone=+976 11 46 4088 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=One of UB's leading hotels, with a location among a cluster of major shopping centers and office buildings. 34 rooms of various levels of luxury: deluxe, semi-lux and standard. }} * {{sleep | name=ibis Styles Ulaanbaatar Polaris | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/9808/index.ru.shtml | email=H9808@accor.com | address=81 Chinggis Avenue, Khan-Uul | lat=47.895156 | long=106.883866 | directions= | phone=+976 70100707 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double US$120 | image=Ibis Styles Ulaanbaatar Polaris.jpg | lastedit=2025-01-09 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Bayangol Hotel | alt= | url=http://bayangolhotel.mn | email= | address= | lat=47.91203 | long=106.91365 | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=Bayangol Hotel.jpg | content=Close to the bars and Chinggis Square, but rooms are small and the Internet cuts in and out. }} * {{sleep | name=Blue Sky Hotel and Tower | alt= | url=http://hotelbluesky.mn | email= | address= | lat=47.91674 | long=106.91851 | directions=south side of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 7010 0505 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$200 | wikipedia=Blue Sky Tower | image=Felhőkarcoló a főtéren (Skyscraper on the central square) - panoramio.jpg | wikidata=Q15107804 | content=The tallest building in Mongolia. 200 rooms, plus several nice restaurants and bars including a lounge on the 23rd floor with views of the whole city.. }} * {{sleep | name=Chinggis Khaan Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.chinggis-hotel.com | email=reservation@chinggis-hotel.com | address= | lat=47.922101 | long=106.934609 | directions=four blocks east of Chinggis Square; take Beijing Street east for about 1200 m, then turn right on Tokyo Street | phone=+976 700 000 99 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=Chinggis Khaan Hotel.jpg | wikidata=Q11074511 | content=Spacious rooms that can be described as "wannabe luxurious". }} * {{sleep | name=Corporate Hotel | alt=Корпорэйт зочид буудал | url=http://www.corporatehotel.mn/sector/sector-1 | email= | address= | lat=47.91299 | long=106.91355 | directions=on Chinggis Avenue, seven minutes on foot south of Chinggis Square | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | image=The Corporate Hotel.jpg | lastedit=2024-05-29 | content=Nice luxurious rooms as well as sauna, jacuzzi and free WiFi. }} * {{sleep | name=HS Khaan Resort Hotel | alt= | url=http://hs-khaan-resort.com/ | email= | address=Khui doloon hudag, Argalant soum | lat=47.971077 | long=106.480045 | directions=about 12 km west of central UB via Highway 3 | phone=+976-9908-8102 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A ''ger''-style resort in the countryside outside of town. All rooms have sweeping views over the steppes. }} * {{sleep | name=Kempinski Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.kempinski.com/en/ulaanbaatar/hotel-khan-palace/welcome/ | email=reservations.ulaanbaatar@kempinski.com | address= | lat=47.91982 | long=106.94365 | directions=about 2 km east of Chinggis Square, at northeast corner of Peace Avenue and Ikh Toiruu ring road | phone=+976 11 463 463 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A nice hotel on the east side of the city with several good restaurants, including '''Kara-Khorum''' with an excellent brunch on the weekends: various meats, fruit, omelet and juice bar, plus caviar and champagne. }} * {{sleep | name=Ramada Citycenter | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/ulaanbaatar-mongolia/ramada-ulaanbaatar-citycenter/overview | email= | address= | lat=47.91519 | long=106.89188 | directions=on Peace Avenue about 2 km west of Chinggis Square, a block past Ikh Toiruu ring road | phone=+976 7014 1111 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From US$200/night | content=One of the only international hotel chains in the city. On the top floor of the '''MaxMall''', near Gandan Monastery. Has all the standard features of a full-service Western hotel, including fitness center, sauna, and office space. }} * {{sleep | name=Shangri-La Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.shangri-la.com/ulaanbaatar/shangrila/ | email= | address= | lat=47.912953 | long=106.920231 | directions=on Olympic Street three blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 7702 9999 | tollfree= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=From US$440/night | image=Shangri-La Ulaanbaatar.jpg | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=Centrally located high-rise property catering to a mix of business travellers and well-heeled tourists, with free WiFi, a fitness club, laundry and shoeshine service, and several onsite restaurants. Rooms are spacious, overlook either Chinggis Square or Nayramdal Park, and their design can be described as a modernized take on traditional Mongolian aesthetic elements. They'll pick you up from the airport upon prior arrangement. }} * {{sleep | name=Ulaanbaatar Hotel | alt= | url=http://ubhotel.mn/ | email=reservations@ubhotel.mn | address= | lat=47.91862 | long=106.92266 | directions=just off the east side of Sukhbaatar Square | phone=+976 11 320 620 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia=Ulaanbaatar Hotel | image=Ulaanbaatar Hotel.jpg | wikidata=Q10877907 | content=The first modern hotel ever built in Mongolia (in 1961) is showing its age. Nice central location, though. }} * {{sleep | name=Mongolica Hotel and Resort | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/mongolica.resort/ | email= | address= | lat=47.860788 | long=106.678861 | directions= | phone=+976 99199152 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content= }} ==Connect== On Peace Avenue at the southwest corner of Chinggis Square, Ulaanbaatar's {{marker|type=listing|name=Central Post Office|lat=47.91706|long=106.91578}} not only sells stamps but also a wide variety of reasonably priced postcards (though they may take up to two months to reach their destination!) Also check out their large collections of decorative stamps. '''Mobile phone''' operators around town offer prepaid GSM SIM cards, handset rentals (Mobicom), and extensive roaming options. As well, prepaid cards such as BodiCom are another convenient and relatively inexpensive way to make an international call. '''Internet''' Many restaurants and coffeehouses offer free WiFi. ==Stay safe== ===Crime=== While crime rates in Ulaanbaatar are said to be among the highest of any Asian city, this generally applies less to the city center than the underdeveloped ''ger'' districts on the outskirts of town: poorly lit shantytowns crisscrossed by maze-like dirt alleys and row upon row of fences; not the kind of place most tourists would be interested in to begin with. Nonetheless, it might be a good idea to avoid going out at night alone (though it's usually perfectly fine to do so in groups). This goes double for relatively deserted areas away from major routes, and for rowdy nightlife districts. Although most large buildings have security guards, they're only there to keep drunks and homeless people out, so don't expect much help from them if a crime is committed against you. Unfortunately, xenophobia and violence towards foreigners is common. Alcoholism is a huge social problem and Mongolia has some of the highest rates of liver cancer in the world. Do not acknowledge or approach any Mongolian man under the influence of alcohol. Many foreigners who go to bars and clubs at night report assault and general aggression. While muggings, assaults, and taxi scams all occasionally occur, the main crime for foreigners to be concerned about is '''pickpocketing'''. This is especially a problem at the '''Naran Tuul''' market, at the bus stops close to the '''State Department Store''', and on crowded buses in general. If you've been attacked or pickpocketed, take time to make a deposition at the district police station, and let your country's embassy know. Though unmarked taxis are common and generally nothing to fear, it's probably a good idea to get a local to serve as an interpreter and explain the fare system, and to keep an eye on where the taxi is taking you. Sometimes unmarked taxi drivers will try to take people, especially drunk tourists, down a dark alley and demand their cell phone or cash. ===Hotel scams=== Vacation home hosting is common in UB, foreign investors, locals, and real estate developers list available apartments on the usual booking sites. The frequency of fraud or crime with these listings is probably just as common as in established hotels elsewhere in the world, but there are some additional things to look out for, when an established hotel might seem to otherwise provide safety in numbers. Vacation rentals might be apartments in locations that have been caused to be otherwise unliveable due to nuisance conditions created with the intention of driving tenants or owners out. New construction in some areas is shoddy with thin walls and no privacy, projects are colonized by organized criminals gangs, retail spaces nearby might be venues for organized trafficking in persons. New buildings as elsewhere in Asia, are liable to be financed by organized crime groups from the usual places, largely unoccupied, unsecured and wholly thrown open for arbitrary use within international trafficking rings. Irregular hotels operated by noncitizens may be located in mixed use buildings or apartment complexes with persistent crime presence. In areas with high methamphetamine drug use, it might be difficult even to determine the nature or intent of the criminal actors. ===Road and traffic hazards=== Walking on the streets at any time is a hazardous affair, as there are open manholes, reckless drivers, and (from October to March) ice on the roads to contend with. The automobile culture in UB is too new for safe driving systems and habits to have taken root among the public: if you're crossing the street, even at a designated crosswalk and even if in theory you have the right of way, don't expect anyone (even buses and police) to stop or even slow down for you. You ''will'' get honked and shouted at, however. ===Child beggars=== This is a common sight on the streets of UB that may tug at the heartstrings of well-off Western tourists, but the reality is a bit more complicated than it may appear. Any money you give will often go straight into the pockets of their teenage "pimps", so your donation may not help the kids. It also pays to be on your guard when they operate in groups, as this is often a setup for a pickpocketing operation. Children and the elderly are frequently present in the areas where organized prostitution is taking place. Sex trafficking in Asia invariably involves call centers, and often family members or fellow travelers, taking direction from a handler in related crime activities. The objective is to obtain money, it is not to sell sex. ===General=== In winter, be mindful of the cold at all times. Even being outside for a couple of minutes in -35 can cause problems very, very quickly. In bars, many people may want to approach you and talk to you out of interest. This is usually well-meaning, though it can be annoying. As a general rule, the more drunk a person will be, the more annoying they will be too. If you are open to conversation, then go ahead. Mongolians are interesting and interested, and it can lead to great connections, memories and stories. However, remember to be wary. Some Mongolian men do not take too kindly to foreign men speaking to Mongolian women (especially young women). Be wary of this, especially in busy bars, and where copious amounts of alcohol is involved. ==Cope== ===Newspapers=== The weekly '''''[https://www.ubpost.mn/ UB Post]''''' is the principal English-language source for cultural, economic, and political goings-on in Mongolia. ===Embassies=== * {{flag|Australia}}{{listing | name=Australia | alt= | url=https://mongolia.embassy.gov.au/ | email= | address=Level 20, Shangri-La Centre, 19A Olympic Street, Sukhbaatar District-1 | lat= | long= | directions=Shangri-La Centre | phone=+976 7013 3001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata= |lastedit=2023-03-25| content= }} * {{flag|Canada}} {{listing | name=Canada | alt= | url= | email= | address=Central Tower, 6th floor | lat= | long= | directions=southeast corner of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 332500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33245649 | content= }} * {{flag|China}} {{listing | type=listing | name=China | alt= | url=http://mn.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/ | email=chinaemb_mn@mfa.gov.cn | address=Zaluuchuudyn Urgun Chuluu 5 | post = C.P.O.BOX672 | lat= | long= | directions=just northeast of the Government House | phone=+976 11 320955, +976 11 323940, +976 11 311903 | tollfree= | fax=+976 11 311943 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309063 | content=It is possible for most foreigners to get a Chinese visa here. During busy periods, the office may refuse entry after 11:00. Also, on major Chinese holidays, the Consular Section may be closed for several days. }} * {{flag|Cuba}} {{listing | name=Cuba | alt= | url= | email= | address=United Nations Street 18, Sükhbaatar district | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 323778 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309069 | content= }} * {{flag|Czech Republic}} {{listing | name=Czech Republic | alt= | url=http://www.mzv.cz/ulaanbaatar | email=ulaanbaatar@embassy.mzv.cz | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11321886, +976 99111880 (emergencies), +976 9909 8708 (emergencies) | tollfree= | fax=+976 11323791 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309276 | content= }} * {{flag|France}} {{listing | name=France | alt= | url=http://www.ambafrance-mn.org/ | email= | address=Peace Avenue 12, Sükhbaatar district | lat=47.917176 | long=106.913517 | directions=west of Chinggis Square, past the Central Post Office | phone=+976 11 324519 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2841766 | content= }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany | alt= | url= | email= | address=United Nations Street 18, Baga Toiruu 2, Sükhbaatar district | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 329522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309283 | content= }} * {{flag|India}} {{listing | name=India | alt= | url= | email= | address=Zaluuchuud Avenue 10, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=just east of the Chinese embassy | phone=+976 11 329522 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309392 | content= }} * {{flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Olympic Street 8, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=two blocks south of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 320777, +976 11 313332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309400 | content= }} * {{flag|Kazakhstan}} {{listing | name=Kazakhstan | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th khoroo, Zaisan Street 78, Khan-Uul District | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+976 11 345408 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309414 | content= }} * {{flag|Kuwait}} {{listing | name=Kuwait | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bella Vista Town, Zaisan Bella, 11th khoroo, Khan-Uul District | lat= | long= | directions=south of the city center, near the bridge to Zaisan Memorial | phone=+976 7744444 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309421 | content= }} * {{flag|Laos}} {{listing | name=Laos | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th khoroo, Ikh Toiruu Road 59, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=massive complex on the south side of Peace Avenue, East of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 326440 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309436 | content= }} * {{flag|North Korea}} {{listing | name=North Korea | alt= | url= | email= | address=Diplomatic Complex 95, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=behind the Embassy Restaurant near the Tengis Theater | phone=+976 11 310432 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309445 | content= }} * {{flag|Russia}} {{listing | name=Russia | alt= | url= | email= | address=11th Khoroo, Ikh Toiruu Road 59, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=massive complex on the south side of Peace Avenue, east of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 326440, +976 11 322834 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Russian embassy in Ulan Bator 2.JPG | wikidata=Q16687397 | content= }} * {{flag|South Korea}} {{listing | name=South Korea | alt= | url=http://overseas.mofa.go.kr/mn-ko/index.do | email= | address=Olympic Street 10, Sükhbaatar District | lat= | long= | directions=two blocks South of Chinggis Square | phone=+976 11 70071030, +976 11 70071020 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-18:00 | price= | wikidata=Q33309454 | lastedit=2017-07-25 | content= }} * {{flag|Turkey}} {{listing | name=Turkey | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue 5, Chingeltei District | lat= | long= | directions=west of the post office, next to the French Embassy | phone=+976 11 311200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q33309468 | content= }} * {{flag|United Kingdom}} {{listing | name=United Kingdom | alt= | url=https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-ulaanbaatar | email=Consular.Mongolia@fco.gov.uk | address=Unit 1-3A, Level 19 Shangri-La Offices, Olympic Street 19A, Sukhbaatar District-1 | lat=47.9128275 | long=106.9215149 | directions=north-east corner of the National Amusement Park | phone=+976 11 458133 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu Th 14:00-16:00 | price= | wikidata=Q33309476 | content= }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | alt= | url=https://mn.usembassy.gov/ | email=cons@usembassy.mn | address= | lat= | long= | directions=north of Chinggis Khaan Hotel | phone=+976 7007-6001 | tollfree= | fax=+976 7007-6174 | hours=M-F 08:30-12:30 and 13:00-17:00 | price= | wikipedia=Embassy of the United States, Ulaanbaatar | image=US Embassy in Mongolia.jpg | wikidata=Q25044768 | content= }} * {{flag|Vietnam}} {{listing | name=Vietnam | alt= | url= | email= | address=Peace Avenue 47, Bayanzurkh District | lat=47.9185 | long=106.9343 | directions=just West of the Wrestling Palace | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Vietnamese embassy in Ulaanbaatar.JPG | wikidata=Q33309489 | content= }} ==Go next== Except for those just passing through on the [[Trans-Siberian Railway|Trans-Mongolian Railroad]] or transiting through Ulaanbaatar Airport, most people come to Mongolia to witness the beauty of the endless steppes and deserts of Central Asia, populated by the nomadic descendants of Genghis Khan. Ulaanbaatar is an excellent homebase to explore Mongolia with its many museums, monasteries, and cultural experiences, but don't confine yourself to UB: you can't really get to know this place without going to the countryside for at least a few days. *[[Gorkhi-Terelj National Park]] — scenic, forested mountain valleys a mere three-hour bus ride from UB *[[Bogd Khan National Park]] — the world's largest equestrian statue of Genghis Khan and the ruins of a large Buddhist monastery destroyed by the communists in 1937 are the showpieces of this massive mountain park South of town *[[Karakorum]] — the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire in the beautiful Orkhon River valley, a day's bus ride to the west *The [[Gobi|Gobi Desert]] — nomadic camel herders and dinosaur fossils *[[Western Mongolia]] — where the old Kazakh tradition of eagle-hunting lives on in the snow-capped Altai Mountains {{routebox| | image1=Trans-Siberian Railway icon.png | imagesize1=100 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Irkutsk]] | minorl1=[[Darkhan]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Beijing]] | minorr1=[[Sainshand]] | link1=Trans-Siberian Railway }} {{IsPartOf|Central Mongolia}} {{guidecity}} {{geo|47.92|106.92}} qdst2fegfbq61vrigvo8ik6kkym0twk 0 37487 5091095 5077295 2025-07-11T00:33:42Z SHB2000 2248002 |otbp=yes 5091095 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Vaals banner.jpg|caption-Von Clermontplein, Vaals|otbp=yes}} '''Vaals''' is a small city and municipality in the [[South Limburg]] region, in the [[Netherlands|Dutch]] province [[Limburg (Netherlands)|Limburg]], comprising the very southeasternmost corner of the Netherlands. It is right on both the Belgian and German borders, with the much larger German city of [[Aachen]] just a stone's throw away. A popular holiday destination for Dutch domestic tourists, the town is surrounded by the rolling hills this region is famous for and is known for its beautiful landscapes. ==Understand== [[File:Schloss Bloemendal Gartenfassade 04a (cropped).jpg|thumb|350px|Huize Bloemendaal, now a hotel, is an impressive sight in the heart of town.]] [[image:Drilandenpunt.jpg|200px|thumb|The Drielandenpunt marks the spot where the German, Belgian and Dutch borders meet]] The borders of Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands meet here in Vaals, on the Drielandenpunt. The official place of the Drielandenpunt is just a few steps aways from the highest point of the (European) Netherlands, the Vaalserberg. Vaals is a friendly town for tourists, with regular activities and a beautiful natural area surrounding it. The Dutch call it "a piece of abroad in the Netherlands". The municipality of Vaals comprises the town and a few other villages and hamlets. The main population centres are: * {{Marker|type=city|lat=50.7722 | long=6.0172|name=Vaals}} proper * {{Marker|type=city|lat=50.7881 | long=5.9641|name=Vijlen}} and its hamlets, the highest located village in the country and popular with hikers and bikers. * {{Marker|type=city|lat=50.7859 | long=5.9921|name=Lemiers}}, a small village with a nice, old church. * {{Marker|type=city|lat=50.7750 | long=5.9870|name=Holset}}, a tiny village with some good options to eat and a medieval church. A large number of the inhabitants, up to 26%, are Germans. Nowadays, the town's main activity is tourism. Many Dutch, German and Belgian tourists visit this friendly town each year, with the Drielandenpunt as its main attraction but mostly of course for the beautiful scenery and picturesque hamlets around town. ===History=== The oldest archaeological traces of human settlements in Vaals were found in the nearby [[Vijlen]]er forest, and date from the time of Linear Pottery culture, about (5500 - 4500 BCE). Vaals is first mentioned in documents in 1041. In that time, Emperor Henry III donated land to the St. Adalbert Abbey and to distinguish between the city of Aachen and this land, it is referred to in Latin as "in Vallis" (In the Valley), making Vaals one of the few places in the Netherlands to have a Latin-derived name. In those days, the centre of the municipality was [[Holset]], also home to a high court of justice. Given the location of the municipality, along the main (and originally Roman) road between Aachen and Maastricht, Vaals observed many armies passing by. During the Dutch Revolt against Spanish overlordship in 1568, the armed forces of William of Orange passed through Vaals and looted St. Pauls Church. In 1661 Vaals became part of the Republic of the United Netherlands. Many wealthy citizens moved to Vaals and turned it into a flourishing industrial hub. One prominent industrial family were the Von Clermonts, who moved from Aachen to Vaals in 1761 and established a large linen factory, with clientèle in [[Prussia]], Belgium, Austria, Poland and even Russia. In 1717, Tsar Peter the Great visited the Von Clermonts. In 1803, Napoleon Bonaparte, Emperor of France, and his wife Josephine de Beauharnais visited Vaals and stayed in Bloemendal Castle, one of the outhouses of the Von Clermont family. During the Conference of Vienna, Aachen was a part of Prussia and Vaals to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Upon the Belgian declaration of independence in 1830, Vaals was Belgian claimed territory until it was reassigned to the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1839. As a result, the four national boundaries of Prussia, Belgium, the Netherlands and the Neutral Territory of [[Moresnet]], met near Vaals until Moresnet was absorbed into Belgium in 1919 and the current three countries point remained. ====After 1840==== Owing to increased competition and the political closure of the German and Belgian regio to Vaals, industrial activity went down after 1840. Vaals turned from a wealthy industrial town into a leisure and holiday destination for the citizens of Aachen. Its casinos in this time made it a Monte Carlo-like destination for the well-to-do of the surrounding regions. Germans referred to the town as the "Vaalser Paradies" (Vaals Paradise). To stimulate industry and tourism, a tram connecting from Aachen started operation in 1889, and was extended in 1922 to Wijlre, which not long after was expanded to Maastricht. This extension on the Dutch side of the border was a prestigious and costly project was turned out being not very successful, as the tram's complete route was used for only 13 years, though the route between Aachen and the Vaals border was operated until 1974. Before and during World War II, the borders were closed and Vaals grew isolated due to its remote location in the Netherlands. After the war, commerce rose. Germans visited Vaals on a daily basis, as they still do today. Many inhabitants of Vaals found jobs in Aachen and smuggle routes across the border prospered. The smugglers of Vaals were called "The Owls of Vaals", referring to their nightly endeavours. Nowadays, the borders are of course open and Vaals is well embedded in the Aachen local transport system. ===Lemiers=== Situated along the ancient Roman road from current-day [[Maastricht]] to [[Aachen]], Lemiers existed already in those ancient times. Extensive excavations in the 1920s/1930s exposed the remains of a large Roman villa of some 150 by 160 meters. There's nothing much to see at the site now, but the area (a meadow, now) is listed as a national monument. ===Holset=== Modern-day Holset, now home to about 160 people, probably originates in the Early Middle Ages, and likely developed around a logging site. There is however evidence of a much earlier settlement at the same location. Historians believe an Eburon temple stood here some 2000 years ago. It is thought to have been destroyed when Julius Caesar destroyed the whole Eburon people. Around 360 the bishop of Maastricht is known to have come here to convert the locals to Christianity, but it took another few centuries for a church to be built. ===Vijlen=== [[File:Vijlen-Rott 48 (3).JPG|thumb|Typical timber framed houses are common in the hamlets around Vijlen]] '''Vijlen''' is the second largest town in the municipality. The surrounding hamlets included, some 1500 people live here, although in summer the village also receives a large number of visitors. Mostly Dutch tourists find their way to this friendly village, which serves as a fine base to explore the region. It is known as the highest situated village in the Netherlands and is commended for the beautiful landscapes and forest areas around. It promotes itself as the only "mountain village" in the country, which of course is an exaggeration of its hill-top position, but is the basis for a number of activities for tourists and inhabitants alike. The village of Vijlen comprises the hamlets Camerig, Harles, Rott, Melleschet and Cottessen. Vijlen as a whole is part of the municipality [[Vaals]]. If accommodation gets scarcer during the summer season, or if you like the countryside experience, these hamlets have a number of camp sites and holiday houses to offer. The main village of Vijlen is located on a hill, the Vijlenerberg, and therefore lies up to 200 m above Normaal Amsterdams Peil. Burial mounds in the nearby Vijlener forest are proof of human settlement in this area at the time of the Linear Pottery Culture, some 3000–5000 years ago. Children's teeth were found in one of the mounds, which is therefore called the "children's grave". Since no valuable items were found at the site, but Roman pottery remains were, the Romans are believed to have plundered the graves long before their excavation in the 1920s and 30s. The modern day village is most likely Roman in origin, and the name Vijlen is presumably derived from "villa" or "villare", which would mean "farm villa" or "belonging to a farm villa" in Latin. Around 1877, '''cement industry''' settled in the small village. A factory was built on top of the Vijlenerberg (the hill on which the village lies) and made a natural cement out of local limestone. A second factory was built in 1899, lower on the hill, but went bankrupt soon after. A new owner was able to get the new factory running again and made good profits during World War I, when cement became scarce. Both factories had underground tunnels, originally for underground mining purposes and later to connect open air quarries to the factory buildings. A long 2-m-high and no more than 1.7-m-wide tunnel under the Vijlenerberg connected the new factory to its quarry. In the 1920s, strong competition in the cement branch and the remote location, far from any railway, eventually caused the factories to close. ===Tourist office=== * {{listing | name=VVV Zuid-Limburg service point Vaals | alt= | url=http://www.vvvzuidlimburg.nl | email=info@visitzuidlimburg.nl | address=Viergrenzenweg 97 | lat=50.75545 | long=6.01933 | directions= | phone=+31 900 555 9798 (€1 per call) | tollfree= | hours=April - October: daily from 10:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-12-09 | content=A small tourist information point by the labyrinth at the border tripoint. The tourist information office is a well equipped place with maps, tours and information on all major sights. They can also assist in hotel bookings etc. The service point is a local dependency, which means that you could be deferred to a larger tourist information store. The nearest of these is found in [[Gulpen]]. }} ==Get in== {{mapframe}} {{Mapshape}} ===By car=== The main way in by car is over the '''N281''', which is connected to the E14/A76. This road is essentially the ancient Roman route from [[Maastricht]] to [[Aachen]]. Still today, it goes straight through town on to Aachen, and the two towns have basically become one big urban area, with no space in between. Smaller, regional roads (which are advisable if you like to enjoy the scenery) lead to neighbouring [[Epen]], and across the Belgium border to [[Gemmenich]] and [[Plobières]]. ===By bus=== '''Buses''' run frequently and are the only form of public transport to get in or out. The town's main terminal is right in the centre, at the Alexanderplein and in the middle of the shopping area. The main connections are: * Line 43 - to Simpelveld and Heerlen * Line 50 - to Gulpen and Maastricht * Line 50 - to Aachen * Buslines '''21''' from Heerlen to Vaals town and '''350''' from Maastricht to Aachen pass and stop in Lemiers. The bus to the border tripoint is an 8-person, marshrutka-like van, with one service every hour, terminating early: the last bus is well before 18:00! If there are too many people to fit on the van, you may have to (hitch)hike back to civilization. ====To Vijlen==== '''Bus line 59''' runs right through the village on its way from Vaals to Mamelis and back. If you're coming from [[Heerlen]] or [[Simpelveld]] bus line 43 can take you as far as the hamlet of Mamelis or Vaals. From [[Maastricht]] and [[Aachen]], Vijlen is reable by bus 350 which stops in Vaals and Mamelis, where a transfer to line 59 is possible. From Mamelis a 15 minutes walk uphill is also an option with a separated walking path next to the road. ===By plane=== The nearest airport is Maastricht-Aachen Airport ({{IATA|MST}}) served by a handful of seasonal flights to beach destinations, and from nearby Aachen direct trains also run to Düsseldorf Airport ({{IATA|DUS}}), which is just over an hour away and has many more international destinations. ===By train=== There's no '''train''' station in Vaals. It's easy enough however to catch a German train in Aachen, or to arrive in [[Maastricht]] or [[Heerlen]] and take a bus from there. Taxis are available too but very expensive, as Heerlen and Maastricht are both at least a 20 minute drive. Count on at least €60 for a taxi ride from Heerlen. [[Ride hailing services|Uber]] is active in the region but expect to have to wait for your driver to reach the more remotely located Vijlen. ==Get around== ===Vaals town=== The old centre can be reasonably well be explored by foot, but a bike or car is a good option since many of the sights lie on the outskirts of town. Also, the surrounding natural area and villages make one of the towns greatest assets, but take quite a hike on foot. Unlike most other Dutch cities, the centre is not car-free and it therefore easy to get around when driving. '''Electric bikes''' are an increasingly popular way to get around, as they provide all the benefits of a normal bike but make it a lot easier to make your way to the hill tops. This "groenfietsen" (green biking) is an extensive initiative and comes with route proposals. If you book ahead, several restaurants, hotels and campings in Vaals can make these so-called "green-bikes" available for you. If you haven't reserved one, try nearby '''Herberg Oud Holset''', Holset 54 Lemiers. ===Lemiers=== As small as Lemiers is, you can easily get by on foot or bike. Parking is allowed along most of the roads. The newer part of the village is centred around the main road, while the oldest part is a short downhill walk towards the creek. From the centre of Lemiers to Holset it's another kilometre. It's a pleasant walk, but alternatively you can go by car or bike. There are parking spaces in the hamlet as well. ===Vijlen=== The town is small, and you'll be fine on foot. Visiting one or two hamlets is still doable on foot. However, unless you like a firm walk, you'll need a car, bike or some other form of transport to get around to several of them. You can reserve an electric bike via '''Wandelcafé A gen Kirk''' and hotel/restaurant '''Vijlerhof'''. If you're staying in holiday park Reevallis, you can also rent a bike there. For cars, quads or vespas, head to [[Valkenburg]] or [[Maastricht]]. The region is a hillier than the rest of the Netherlands and biking on a normal bike can be a very physical activity. If untrained or uncertain of your biking-stamina, an electric bike would be advised. ==See== [[File:Vaals-Eschberg 5.JPG|thumb|The Eschberg mansion is one of the registered monuments in town.]] [[File:LemiersKasteel1.jpg|thumb|The castle of Lemiers.]] [[File:Vijlen.jpg|thumb|The St. Martinus Church is a real landmark, visible from far away]] *{{see | name=Border tripoint | alt=Drielandenpunt | url=http://www.drielandenpunt.nl/ | email= | address= | lat=50.75444 | long=6.02083 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3246949 | content=At this point the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany come together with their respective borders. The exact point is marked by a small, unimpressive stone pilar but is still considered the main must-see in town. Nearby, on the same hill, is also the highest point in the European Netherlands (322.4 m). To entertain the 1 million visitors that find their way here each year, the largest labyrinth in the country was built here, as well as two towers allowing to enjoy to view from the top of the Vaalserberg. There are a few cafés and the forests around it allow for a hike through 3 countries at once. }} *{{listing | type=see | name=Museum de Kopermolen | alt= | url=http://www.dekopermolenvaals.nl/ | email= | address=Von Clermontplein 11 | lat= 50.7702 | long=6.0195 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€1.50 | content=This small museum is housed in a monumental building, build in 1736 as a Lutheran church. It has changing art expositions and regularly concerts and lectures are organized. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Museum Vaals | alt= | url=http://www.museumvaals.nl | email= | address=Eschberg 5-7 | lat=50.769233 | long=6.003283 | directions= | phone=+31 433 060 080 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:30-17:30 | price= | wikidata=Q41990282 | content=The collection of this small museum comprises a somewhat odd combination of church statues and modern art. It's in a historic monastery chapel. }} * {{see | name=St. Pauluskerk | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kerkstraat 27 | lat=50.770375 | long=6.022592 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€5/2.5 for adults/children | wikipedia=Saint Paul's Church, Vaals | image=Sint-Pauluskerk,Vaals-9998.jpg | wikidata=Q2111497 | content=This late 19th-century Neo Gothic church listed as a national monument. It was designed by Johannes Kayser to replace an older church, also dedicated to St. Paul, about 150 m to the south. }} * {{see | name=St. Catharinakapel | alt=| url=https://www.catharinakapel-lemiers.nl/ | email= | address=Oud-Lemiers 16 | lat=50.786 | long=5.996 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2020-02-29| content=This 12th-century chapel is in the oldest part of town. Several historic sources mention the chapel. In 1350, it was dedicated to Saint Catharine of Alexandria. Restorations were carried out in 1896-1897 by Pierre Cuypers but more restorations were needed in 1921. In 1978 the walls on the inside were playfully painted in bright colours by Dutch painter Hans Truijen. The paintings (now in need of restoration) were resented by many of the locals but are considered an important work of art by many art aficionado’s. In any case, it's an interesting combination and well worth a visit. There are regular activities such as concerts or lectures. }} * {{see | name=Sint-Catharina en Luciakerk | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lemiers Rijksweg 83 | lat=50.786| long= 5.992 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This much larger church originates in 1895-1896 and sits along the main road. It was designed by Jan Jorna in the style of the Romanesque Revival architecture and is listed as a national monument. It is also the main church in use for the village. }} * {{see | name=Kasteel Lemiers | alt= Kasteel Gen Hoes| url= | email= | address= | lat=50.789 | long=5.995 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Historic documents mention a castle in Lemiers as early as 1219. The oldest parts of the current castle date back to the 16th century, with other parts originating in the 17th and 18th century. The premises consists of a castle mansion and a castle farm, and is now partly in use as a private residence and partly as office spaces and not accessible for public. It's a pretty sight from the outside, however, and located close to the stream. }} * {{see | name=Timber-framed houses | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Lemiers has a number of monumental timber-framed houses, characteristic for the region. Good examples are those at Rijksweg 120-122 (along the main road) and several along the Oud Lemiers road (notably number 21, 22 and 23). They are also common in the hamlets around Vijlen. Camerig, Cottesen, Mamelis and Mellechet are dotted with old farms and timber framed, ancient houses. }} * {{see | name=H.H. Lambertus en Genovevakerk | alt= | url= | email= | address=Holset 64 | lat=50.775 | long=5.987 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Holset is probably the smallest independent parish in the Netherlands, and it has been independent for centuries already. This small, charming church right in the middle of the hamlet originates in the 12th century. From historic documents it's known that the church was in dire need of restorations around 1667. The tower was fully reconstructed in 1736 and extensive restorations were carried out in 1841/1842. }} * {{see | name=St. Martinus church | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.7877 | long=5.9632| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=The side entrance is usually open during day | price= | content=The neo-Gothic and Catholic church dedicated to St. Martinus is one of the highest situated churches in the country. Right in the heart of the village, along the main road, its clearly visible from miles away and can't be missed. At this spot, a small church was established as early as the 7th century by St. Clodulfus, and later, medieval church stood here until 1860. In the period directly after, construction of the current church began. It was designed by famous Dutch church architect Carl Weber and as mostly finished around 1862. Likely due to financial issues, it took another 18 years to get it completely finished. It is a so-called hall church and its mostly neo-Gothic interior includes a number of art works and a large pipe organ. There are services on Saturday at 18:00, Sunday at 10:00 (both with the church choir) and Thursday at 19:00). }} * {{see | name=Cement Factory ruins | alt= | url= | email= | address= |lat=50.79009 | long=5.95985| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Right next to Hotel Vijlenerhof is a small steep down-hill road (Boombergweg), which leads to the hamlets of Mellechet and Rott. It passes the ruins of the large cement factory that was built here at the end of the 19th century. The remains of the factory were further demolished by the Germans in World War II, and just a few small parts of the factory walls are left.}} ==Do== The main activity in Vaals (as in most villages around), is exploring the surrounding natural areas. Around the village you'll find great landscapes (in part because of the high location of the village), lots of marked routes and a nice forest. Several shorter and longer walks start are colour marked, starting in or around Boscafé 't Hijgend Hert. In the small groceries store you can buy (€4) the "Spatzierkaart", a map with several hiking routes in the area. Some of the local bars have joined forces to develop a so-called [http://www.kroegjesroutes.nl Kroegjesroute], or ''bar route''. It's basically a number of walking routes, leading along some of the best viewpoints around ánd connecting all of the 12 participating establishments, some of which are in surrounding villages. Depending on your wishes, you can opt for a longer or shorter route, or take several in a row. Maps and routes are available in any of the participating cafés, but Fiets en wandelcafé 'A gen Kirk' (across the church) is the designated place to get more information on this or other hiking or biking routes, as it doubles as a tourist office info point. The Vijlener forest is nice for a walk and the '''Linear pottery culture burial mounds''' there are visible. One of the mounds, the "children's grave", has been opened on one side. The information sign next to it is not in English, though. * {{do | name=Kartingbaan Vaals | url=http://www.kartingvaals.nl/ | email= | address=Selzerbeeklaan 23 | lat=50.7792 | long=6.0124 | directions= | phone =+31 433 061 866 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The only outdoor carting track in the province makes a good option for a small adrenaline rush. }} * {{do | name=Horse carriage tours | url= | email=perrin.janssen@home.nl | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+31 434 502 048 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A horse carriage tour through Vaals' beautiful surroundings is a lovely experience. The carriage will take you to some of the nice hamlets and town outskirts. You will have to book some time in advance, as this is a small scale private enterprise. }} * {{do | name=Kunstroute Vaals | alt= | url=http://www.kunstroutevaals.com/| email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€14.50 | content=For about 3 weeks in July, several historic locations in town host art expositions of various kinds for the annual "Art Route". Walk from one exposition to the next, exploring town as well as the work of various artists. Information is in Dutch, but the collections are usually good and a ticket will buy you entrance to all participating locations, some little snacks served at a few of those places and an art brochure. Tickets are available from several Tourist Information Offices (VVV) in the region, but you might as well buy it at the starting point: the Tourist Information Office in Vaals. You can start the route between 10:00 and 13:00. }} * The '''Koelmarkt''' is an annual summer fair, held around the end of July. It has a flee market, lots of stalls with all kinds of goods and food, but also music and fireworks at night. * {{do | name=Vineyard St. Martinus | url=http://www.wijngaardmartinus.nl/ | email=info@wijngaardmartinus.nl | address=Rott 21 | lat=50.78863 | long=5.95015 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you think of a country where wine is produced, the Netherlands is almost certainly not the first country you'll think of - but yes, there is a vineyard outside Vijlen. This family-run vineyard has been producing the village's own wine since the late 1980s. You can take a guided tour or taste the different kinds of wine they produce, but you'll have to book in advance. }} ==Buy== Vaals town has a good range of shops, including clothing, shoes, toy and giftstores as well as many daily grocery options. Most of the stores are along the Maastrichterlaan, the main road through town. Lemiers and Vijlen have a smaller selection of shops such as grocery stores and bakeries. There's a fairly large '''weekly market''' on Tuesday mornings from 8:00 until 13:00, in front of the town hall (Koningin Julianaplein). During the tourist season (roughly from May to October) a '''regional products market''' is held every second Saturday (in the evenly numbered weeks). It's small but sells local products like mustard and jams that make good souvenirs. You'll find it on the Prins Willem Alexanderplein, in front of the Albert Heijn Supermarket. ==Eat== [[File:Dreiländereck Labyrinth.JPG|thumb|Labyrinth at the border triangle point]] In addition to the ones below, many hotels have restaurants that are frequented by non-guests also. *{{eat | name=Friture Delnoije | alt=Cafetaria Delnoye | url=https://www.facebook.com/p/Friture-Delnoye-100063610691589/ | email= | address=Maastrichterlaan 164 | lat=50.7742 | long=6.0129 | directions= | phone=+31 433 080 209 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€5 | content=One of the most popular places among locals for fries and a snack. }} *{{eat | name=Kasteel Bloemendal | alt= | url=http://www.hotelbloemendal.nl/nl/faciliteiten/restaurant | email= | address=Bloemendalstraat 150 | lat=50.7728 | long=6.013 | directions= | phone=+31 433 659 800 | tollfree= | hours= | price=from €30 | content=This beautiful small castle in the middle of town houses not only an upscale hotel, but also a restaurant. Plenty of luxurious dishes to choose from, but menu offers do start from around {{EUR|30}}. There's a pretty good wine list. }} *{{eat | name=Brasserie Lodge 7 | alt= | url=https://www.brasserie-lodge.nl/ | email= | address=Epenerbaan 1 | lat=50.7668 | long=5.984 | directions= | phone=+31 43 306 43 05 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€30.50 | content=The beautiful location of this modern place out of the town center makes it worth a visit. There's a nice terrace in summer and a fire place in winter. The food gets pretty good reviews too. }} *{{eat | name=De Raadskelder | alt= | url=https://www.raadskeldervaals.nl/ | email= | address=Koningin Julianaplein 49 | lat=50.7708 | long=6.019 | directions= | phone=+31 434 073 639 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€20 | content=Lovely restaurant setting in the ancient cellars of the town hall. The food is traditional but good and the service adequate. }} *{{eat | name=Troje | alt= | url=https://www.troje-vaals.nl/ | email= | address=Kerstraat 68 | lat=50.7714 | long=6.02406 | directions= | phone=+31 433 063 302 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€17 | content=Greek restaurant with nice food and large portions. The service is friendly and take away is an option too. }} *{{eat | name=Schatull | alt= | url=https://www.schatull.nl/ | email= | address=Akenerstraat 31 | lat=50.7693 | long=6.0219 | directions= | phone=+31 433 061 740 | tollfree= | hours= | price=3-course menu from €25 | content=Housed in an old South Limburg building, Schatull serves sunny dishes with a Tuscan origin. Perhaps the best place around for a taste of Italian cuisine. On request, they can organize cooking workshops and demonstrations. }} * {{eat | name=Vols Brasserie | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/vols.location/ | email= | address=Prins Willem Alexanderplein 1 | lat=50.77272 | long=6.02013 | directions= | phone=+31 433 060 655 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-09 | content=Italian and Dutch cuisine. Both main dishes and smaller dishes like sandwiches and salads on the menu. }} * {{eat | name='t Klukske | alt= | url=http://www.klukske.nl/ | email= | address=Holset 44 | lat= 50.775119 | long=5.988092 | directions= | phone=+31 30650525 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€22.50 for a menu | content=Tasty regional and international dishes, including some vegetarian options. The 3-course chef's menu is a good deal and the service is overall very friendly. }} * {{eat | name=In de oude Stroopkokerij | alt= | url=http://www.indeoudestroopkokerij.nl/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Holset 48 | lat=50.775085 | long=5.987605 | directions= | phone=+31 433066525 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Mains from €18.50, 3 course menu from €24.50 | content=Housed in an old farm which used to be a "syrup cookery", a place where traditional local apple syrup (''stroop'') was produced. You can still see the big copper kettles. The service is friendly but not super fast. They reward your patience with tasty dishes however, many with a regional touch. }} *{{eat | name=Cuba Libre | url=http://www.restaurantcubalibre.nl/ | email= | address=Mamelisserweg 16-18 |lat=50.7915 | long=5.9630 | directions= | phone =+31 43-30 60 206 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=mains from €16 | content=The specialty of this Cuban restaurant is ''sopa de platanos'', a banana soup. Not everyone's favourite, but interesting for sure. Opened just a few years ago, the owners have made this restaurant one of the most lively places around, with regular cocktail- and salsa workshops and other activities. They also provide free walking routes of the village. }} *{{eat | name=Buitenlust | url=http://www.buitenlust.nu | email= | address=Camerig 11 | lat=50.76857 | long=5.93616| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=mains from €16 | content=This place lies outside of the village, on the edge of the forest and has a unique view over the countryside. A good place for a lunch break or for diner }} ==Drink== For a real taste of nightlife, follow the locals and head to [[Aachen]], [[Maastricht]] or [[Heerlen]]. Nonetheless, if you're just looking for a pleasant place to have a drink, there are a few around. * {{drink | name=Café Allure | alt= | url=http://www.cafeallure.nl/ | email= | address=Maastrichterlaan 81 | lat=50.77281 | long=6.01918 | directions= | phone=+31 433 065 047 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-09 | content=Cosy, old-fashioned brown café with a good choice in beers. }} * {{drink | name=Café Oud Lemiers | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Caf%C3%A9-Zaal-Oud-Lemiers/2175062112781678 | email= | address=Lemiers Rijksweg 20 | lat=50.784732 | long=5.994542 | directions= | phone=+31 43 306 1381 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A typical "brown café", and a gathering place for the locals. It's nothing fancy but the beer is cheap and the staff friendly. Once a week the local music group practices here. }} * {{drink | name=Sixsens | alt= | url=http://www.sixsens.eu/ | email= | address=Lemiers Rijksweg 1 | lat=50.783082 | long=5.997792 | directions= | phone=+31 43 306 11 95 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Entrance per day: €55/25 for men/women | content=Yes, really, there is a modern, exotic and sensual sauna and night club. It's a full-fledged wellness and sexual pleasure place, with anything from saunas and a swimming pool to private rooms, a restaurant and cinema, catering for a large part to customers from Aachen. }} * {{drink | name=Fiets & Wandelcafé A gen Kirk | alt= | url=http://www.agenkirk.nl/ | email= | address=Vijlenerberg 115 | lat=50.7874 | long=5.9636 | directions= | phone=+31 43-3061963 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This cosy little café opposite the church (hence the name "a gen kirk", "at the church") is decorated from floor to roof with Christian art, statues and bibles. The tourist information office uses the place as a leaflet post and there's a small outdoor terrace next to the main street. You can also '''eat''' here, as there is a simple but budget friendly menu for lunch and dinner (mains from €10). There are also 4 '''bed & breakfast rooms''' upstairs. }} * {{drink | name=Boscafé 't Hijgend Hert | alt= | url=http://www.boscafe.nl | email=info@boscafe.nl | address=Harles 23 | lat=50.77159 | long=5.96452 | directions= | phone=+31 43 306 24 99 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open every day of the year, 11:00-21:00 in summer, winter time: M-W 11:00-19:00, Th-Su 11:00-21:00 | price=Beers from €2.80, mains from €10 | content=This '''bar/restaurant and petting zoo''' promotes itself as the only mountain cabin in the Netherlands, but perhaps you need to be Dutch to find that comparison very valid. It is however a nice and popular establishment in the forest, and (inside) decorated as a mountain cabin bar. It serves a wide selection of beers, including their own brand (Hert). There's also a rather extensive menu, varying from just a piece of apple pie to sandwiches and mains. To get here from Vijlen, drive (or walk) all the way through the village and at the top, turn right towards the forest. Some 800 m into the forest the parking place is indicated on the left. This is also a good spot if you're out for a forest walk. }} ==Sleep== [[File:LemiersKapel1.jpg|thumb|The 12th century St. Catharina chapel.]] There are several lodging options, but many are in the surrounding villages (which belong to the Vaals municipality) Therefore, consider staying in [[Vijlen]] or [[Lemiers]] as well. *{{sleep | name=Bloemendal|alt=Van der Valk Hotel Kasteel Bloemendal| url=http://www.hotelbloemendal.nl/ | email= | address=Bloemendalstraat 150 | lat=50.77285 | long=6.01292 | directions= | phone =+31 433 659 800 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From €115 for a standard or €150 for a suite | checkin= | checkout= | content=Located in the heart of town, this is both one of the best hotel and one of the main sights in town. It's a romantic place with lovely gardens and a pleasant outdoor terrace in summer. Facilities include a swimming pool, a whirlpool, a solarium and a sauna. They offer good but general rooms in a side wing of the castle, as well as nicely decorated suites in the old parts. Note that some (more expensive) rooms have nice and spacious bathrooms, while some cheaper ones have fairly small showers. Whichever room you're in, however, this is a beautiful hotel with excellent service and a good restaurant. }} *{{sleep | name=Bilderberg Kasteel Vaalsbroek | alt= | url=http://www.bilderberg.nl/hotels/kasteel-vaalsbroek/ | email= | address=Vaalsbroek 1 | lat=50.76804 | long=5.99692 | directions= | phone=+31 433 089 308 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=€99 for a double incl. breakfast | content=The service at this place is excellent and the rooms are good value. There's no common lounge area but the restaurant is one of the best around and this place gets points for its quiet, just out-of-town location and outside looks. You don't sleep or have breakfast in the castle area, but you can dine there. }} *{{sleep | name=Vaalserhof | url=http://www.vaalserhof.nl | email= | address=Lemierserberg 35-37 |lat=50.78137 | long=6.00106 | directions= | phone =+31 433 080 155 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Fully equipped apartments with private balcony or terrace on the back side, giving a nice view. }} *{{sleep | name=Camping Hoeve de Gastmolen | url=http://www.gastmolen.nl/| email= | address=Lemierserberg 23 | lat=50.78089 | long=6.00788| directions= | phone =+31 433 065 755 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€12 per night + €3.75 p.p | checkin= | checkout= | content=Fairly small natural camping on the outskirts of Vaals. It's a former farm, close to the Selzerbeek creek (which is also the border with Germany). It has all the basic facilities, including good sanitary and a small playground for the kids. }} *{{sleep | name=Piethaan Hotel Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.piethaan.nl/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Mamelis 6 | lat=50.792844 | long=5.980524 | directions= | phone=+31 43 - 306 13 56 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From €45/70 for a single/double | content=A fairly large hotel right next the main road. Perhaps not the most picturesque location, but it's easy to find, the service is good and rooms on the backside look out over the countryside. It's a family-run place with friendly service and it has a good value restaurant, with mains from €16. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Het Witte Huis | alt= | url=http://www.hotelhetwittehuis.net/ | email= | address=Mamelis 5| lat=50.791924 | long=5.982525 | directions= | phone=+31 43 - 306 1714 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=€60/75 for a single/double incl. breakfast | content=Also next to the main road, more or less across the street from Piethaan hotel. It's a well-maintained, family-run place that offers good, spacious rooms with kitchenettes. Its restaurant only serves to guests. Breakfast is extensive and service nice. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Mergelland | alt= | url=http://www.hotelmergelland.nl/ | email= | address=Holset 100| lat=50.772586 | long=5.985914 | directions= | phone=+31 43 3061459 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Herberg Oud Holset | alt= | url=http://www.oud-holset.nl/ | email= | address=Holset 54 | lat=50.775056 | long=5.987411 | directions= | phone=+31 43 3066650 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Standard singles/doubles for €50/80, breakfast included | content=This friendly "inn" offers 12 good rooms and a nice restaurant for lunch and dinner. It's also a popular place for hikers and bikers in need of a break, and they serve good local pastry too. }} * {{sleep | name=Green House apartments | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rijksweg 69 | lat=50.785910 | long=5.992918 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=€67/85 for a 2/4 person apartment | content=Kitchen and bathroom in the 4-person apartment are a bit old-fashioned, but they are clean and well-maintained. The 2-person one is more modern. There's free wifi and the owner is helpful. You'll have to book online via a booking agency. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Restaurant Vijlerhof | url=http://www.vijlerhof.nl/ | email= | address=Hilleshagerweg 2 |lat=50.79130 | long=5.96198 | directions= | phone =+31 43 306 1710 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From €36 per person per night | checkin=14:00 | checkout=11:00 | content=Friendly, family-run place with small but clean rooms with private bathroom, some with a balcony. Extensive breakfast, central location and lots of walking routes from the hotel. There's a bicycle shed and free parking. The terrace in the front and the garden with a view in the back make the downstairs '''restaurant''' a good choice, also if you want to try local specialties. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel de Linde | alt=Hills 33| url=http://www.hoteldelinde.nl/ | email= | address=Vijlenberg 33 | lat=50.7846 | long=5.9650 | directions= | phone =+31 43 306 32 45 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=from €36 per person per night | checkin= | checkout= | content=Rooms are somewhat worn-down and noisy but they have private bathrooms. The service is friendly and there's free Wi-Fi. The modern downstairs '''restaurant''' has a very limited menu but offers a 3-course menu for €22.50. The view from the restaurant is great. }} *{{sleep | name=Landal Reevallis | url=http://www.landal.nl/nl-nl/bungalowparken/nederland/limburg/reevallis | email= | address=Oude Akerweg 40 |lat=50.7877 | long=5.9697 | directions= | phone=+31 900-8842 (premium rate call) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=From €200 (2 people, 3 nights) | checkin= | checkout= | content=A chalet village of the Landal chain, not far from the village center. They have 69 chalets, for 2, 4 or 6 people but you'll have to stay at least a weekend. Ask for a renovated chalet as some are a tad worn down. All chalets have private bathrooms, a kitchen and outdoor terrace. Wi-Fi is available but you'll have to pay extra for it. }} *{{sleep | name=Camping Rozenhof | url=http://www.campingrozenhof.nl/ | email= | address=Camerig 12 | lat=50.7704 | long=5.9293 | directions= | phone =+31 43-455 1611 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=from €15 for a place with electricity, 2 persons | checkin= | checkout= | content=This large camping has lots of facilities, including a swimming pool and the option of an electric connection at your place. They also have fully equipped caravans and two timber framed chalets for rent, but make sure to book well in advance. }} *{{sleep | name=Camping Cottesserhoeve | url=http://www.cottesserhoeve.nl/ | email= | address=Cottessen 6 | lat=50.7603 | long=5.9417 | directions= | phone =+31 43 455 1352 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price={{EUR|21.40}} for a place, 2 pers | checkin= | checkout=10:30 | content=Large camping with swimming pool, small groceries store, a play ground, snack bar and other facilities. They also rent out a few caravans and apartments, but you'll need to book those well in advance and in summer, you can only book them for full weeks. }} ==Connect== [[File:Holset-Kerk (4).JPG|thumb|The small church of Holset.]] Several hotels and other accommodations offer wifi for their guests. The public library offers free use of computers with internet access. As Vaals (particularly the town itself and Lemiers) is right next to the German border, mobile coverage sometimes gets confused by German providers. Your phone may switch to a German telecommunications company, and this may come with additional roaming costs. To prevent it, set your mobile phone to manual provider switching. * {{listing | name=Public Library | alt=Bibliotheek Vaals | url=http://www.heuvellandbibliotheken.nl/vestigingen/vaals.html | email= | address=St Jozefplein 51 | lat=50.7750 | long=6.0139 | directions= | phone=+31 433 080 110 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu 10:30-12:30, 14:00-18:00; W 14:00-18:00; F 14:00-20:00; Sa 10:30-12:30; closed on Su M Th | price= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Post Office | url= | email= | address=Maastrichterlaan 78 | lat=50.77210 | long=6.02006 | directions=located inside Drogisterij-Parfumerie Ramaekers | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open on weekdays, but they take a lunch break from 13:00-14:00, Sa open from 09:00-13:00. }} The grocery store (''buurtwinkel'') next to the church of Vijlen sells mobile phone prepaid cards, postcards and stamps. There's an orange mailbox across the road from the store (the church side). Mail has to be separated in 2 categories: postal codes within a local range and those outside of that local range. Sending your mail in the wrong section could get it severely delayed. For packages or other postal services you'll have to head to the more equipped post offices of [[Mechelen]], Vaals town or [[Gulpen]]. ==Go next== As the old German city of '''[[Aachen]]''' is just a stone's throw away, it makes for a great day trip. You can easily bike there, or take bus line 50 from the bus station in Vaals. Other nearby travel destinations include: * [[Gulpen]], take the N278 or bus line 50 * [[Maastricht]], take the N278 or bus line 50 * [[Simpelveld]], take the N287 & N281 or bus line 43 For further destinations you can catch an intercity train in Maastricht, Heerlen or Aachen. As Vaalserberg is a tri-border point, if you continue along the road southwest from the summit, you'll be in [[Belgium]]. The village of Gemmenich is about 1.5 km away, and from there you can take the bus to [[Kelmis]] and on to [[Eupen]], from where you can take the train to [[Liège]], [[Brussels]] and other major Belgian cities. {{IsPartOf|South Limburg}} {{geo|50.766667|6.016667}} {{guidecity}} n7d8tdqug4tzcxuc289ne6r45j4rzuk 0 37541 5091116 5084338 2025-07-11T01:11:55Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* By bus */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091116 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Valencia banner.jpg|caption=City of Arts and Science|unesco=yes|dotm=yes}} {{otheruses}} [[File:ComunidadValenciana Valencia1 tango7174.jpg|thumb|400px|Panoramic view of Valencia from the Micalet tower looking south]] '''Valencia''' (''València'' in Catalan/Valencian) is a charming old city and the capital of the [[Valencian Community]]. With just over 830,000 inhabitants in 2023, it is [[Spain]]’s third-largest city and, after Barcelona, the most significant cultural centre along the Spanish Mediterranean coast. It is the capital of the autonomous Valencian Community, and is known for tourism and cuisine. In March visitors flock to the city for the annual UNESCO-listed Falles celebration, but the city is worth visiting at other times of year for its paella, ultramodern architecture, and good beaches. ==Understand== [[File:Llotja columnari1.jpg|thumbnail|''Saló Columnari'' (Hall of Columns) in the Llotja de la Seda]] [[File:Jardins du turia.JPG|thumbnail|Jardí del Túria, the old Túria riverbed, with the Museum of Fine Arts in the background]] [[File:Museo Príncipe Felipe, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, Valencia, España, 2014-06-29, DD 56.JPG|thumb|Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe, in the City of Arts and Sciences, designed by Santiago Calatrava]] The Spanish name ''Valencia'' is pronounced [baˈlenθja] (bahl-EHN-thyah), while the Valencian pronunciation of ''València'' is [vaˈlensia] (vahl-EHN-see-ah). ''Valentia Edetanorum'' was established as a Roman colony in the second century BCE. In the early 8th century CE the Moors invaded, and ''Balansiyya'' became the capital of the Muslim Taifa of Valencia, thriving as a trading centre for paper, silk, ceramics, glass, and silver. With a brief interlude of Christian control in the 11th century under El Cid, the city remained in Muslim hands until the Christian Reconquista led by King Jaime I of Aragon in 1238, and was incorporated as a kingdom under the Crown of Aragon. Valencia experienced its golden age in the 15th century, with a growing population and flowering of Valencian culture and the arts. Significant monuments from this period include the cathedral’s ''Micalet'', the UNESCO-listed ''Llotja de la Seda'', and the ''Torres de Serrano'' (''Serrano Tower''). During this period it became one of the most influential cities of the Mediterranean, and helped to fund Christopher Columbus's first voyages to the Americas. In 1609 the Spanish government ordered the expulsion of all Jews and Moriscos from the kingdom to north Africa. Muslim descendants made up about a third of the population of Valencia and the surrounding region, and their forced removal brought about a major economic downturn, and in some nearby communities, economic collapse. It was more than a century before the city began to recover. In the 20th century, Valencia was the capital of Republican Spain from 1936 to 1939, and during the Spanish Civil War sustained heavy bombardment by Franco’s forces, both by air and sea. Franco retaliated for Valencia’s Republican past with cultural and ideological repression, and forbade the use of the Valencian language. In 1957 the Túria River overflowed its banks leading to catastrophic flooding of the old city centre with more than 80 dead. The river was consequently diverted to the south of the city, but it was not until the return of democracy that the original abandoned riverbed was finally converted into a park – now one of the city’s most outstanding features. In the 21st century Valencia has continued to evolve. In 2007 and 2010 the city hosted the ''America’s Cup'', and from 2008 to 2012 hosted the ''Formula One European Grand Prix''. Architecturally, too, the city has changed, most notably with the construction of the ''Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències'' (''City of Arts and Sciences'') by internationally-renowned Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava. The 2015 election of a new leftist coalition city council, after decades of control by the conservative ''Partido Popular'' (PP), brought renewed focus on expanding and improving existing infrastructure, including adding three new metro lines and expanding the city’s already extensive bicycle path network. This ongoing transformation has turned a once little-considered medium city into a meatier and more interesting destination. ===Visitor information=== * {{listing | name=Tourist Info Valencia | alt= | url=http://www.visitvalencia.com/en/home | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-06-01 | content=All offices sell the [http://shop.visitvalencia.com/en/valencia-tourist-card '''Valencia Tourist Card'''], which is available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, and allows free public transportation (including the metro to/from the airport), free admission to museums and monuments, and discounts at some shops, restaurants, and tourist services. All offices can also sell individual tickets to the City of Arts and Sciences and to the Bioparc, and can help with last-minute hotel, restaurant, and concert reservations. }} ** {{listing | name=Tourist Info Valencia - Reina | alt= | url= | email=infoturistica@turisvalencia.es | address=Plaça de la Reina, 19 | lat=39.47453 | long=-0.37512 | directions=main office | phone=+34 963 153 931 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 153 920 | hours=M-Sa 09:00-19:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00; closed 25 Dec and 1-6 Jan | price= | lastedit=2015-12-17 | content= }} ** {{listing | name=Tourist Info Valencia - Ayuntamiento | alt= | url= | email= | address=Plaça de l'Ajuntament, s/n | lat=39.46957 | long=-0.37599 | directions=booth in the plaza by city hall | phone=+34 963 524 908 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-19:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00; closed 25 Dec and 1-6 Jan | price= | lastedit=2015-12-17 | content= }} ** {{listing | name=Tourist Info Valencia - Airport | alt= | url= | email=infoturistica-aeropuerto@turisvalencia.es | address=Planta de Llegadas | lat= | long= | directions=arrivals hall | phone=+34 961 530 229 | tollfree= | fax=+34 961 598 451 | hours=Mar-Oct: M-F 08:30-20:30, Sa Su and holidays 09:30-17:30; Nov-Feb: M-F 08:30-20:30, Sa 09:30-17:30, Su and holidays 09:30-14:30; closed 25 Dec and 1-6 Jan | price= | lastedit=2015-12-17 | content= }} ** {{listing | name=Tourist Info Joaquín Sorolla | alt= | url= | email=infoturistica-js@visitvalencia.com | address=Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir, 171 | lat=39.46012 | long=-0.38058 | directions=in the Joaquín Sorolla train station | phone=+34 963 803 623 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-17:50, Su and public holidays 10:00-14:50; closed 1-6 Jan, 25 Dec | price= | lastedit=2017-06-01 | content= }} ** {{listing | name=Tourist Info El Cabanyal | alt= | url= | email=infoturistica-playa@visitvalencia.com | address=Passeig de Neptú, 3 | lat=39.46759 | long=-0.32410 | directions=near the Hotel Balneario Las Arenas | phone=+34 628 789 837 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Mid-Jun to mid-Sep: Tu 10:00-13:50, W-Sa 10:00-13:50 14:50-16:50, Su and public holidays 10:00-13:50; closed M | price= | lastedit=2017-06-01 | content= }} ** {{listing | name=Tourist Info Puerto | alt= | url= | email=infoturistica-puerto@visitvalencia.com | address=Moll de Ponent, s/n | lat=39.44387 | long=-0.32839 | directions= | phone=+34 963 674 606 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open only during cruise stopovers | price= | lastedit=2017-06-01 | content= }} ** {{listing | name=Tourist Info Comunitat de València | alt=Tourist Info Valencian Community | url=http://en.comunitatvalenciana.com/ | email= | address=Carrer de la Pau, 48 | lat=39.47275 | long=-0.37087 | directions= | phone=+34 96 398 6422 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-18:50, Su and public holidays 10:00-13:50; closed 25 Dec, 1 Jan, 6 Jan | price= | image=Tourist Info Comunitat de València.jpg | lastedit=2018-01-28 | content=Can offer advice and information about other destinations within the [[Valencia (region)|Valencian Community]], including day trips from the city. }} ===Climate=== *'''Summer''' — Like most European countries, August is a slow month as many of the residents are on vacation. At this time of year Valencia is hot and humid with temperatures averaging between 30-35°C (86-95°F) by day and 20-25°C (68-77°F) by night. *'''Fall''' — September and October are more active months and the weather can permit beach outings as late as late-September. Important events take place during this season. November can be quite gloomy and does not receive a lot of sunshine. *'''Winter''' — Average temperatures revolve around 10 °C and the weather is mostly cool and damp. Some sidewalk cafés remain open. *'''Spring''' — The annual Falles festival unofficially marks the beginning of spring. Cafés and restaurants open their terraces and life spills out onto the street once again. {{Climate| units = Metric | janhigh = 15 | febhigh = 15 | marhigh = 16 | aprhigh = 18 | mayhigh = 22 | junhigh = 28 | julhigh = 30 | aughigh = 30 | sephigh = 28 | octhigh = 23 | novhigh = 19 | dechigh = 16 | janlow = 5 | feblow = 5 | marlow = 6 | aprlow = 8 | maylow = 12 | junlow = 17 | jullow = 19 | auglow = 20 | seplow = 18 | octlow = 13 | novlow = 9 | declow = 6 | janprecip = 70 | febprecip = 68 | marprecip = 76 | aprprecip = 58 | mayprecip = 44 | junprecip = 18 | julprecip = 16 | augprecip = 17 | sepprecip = 32 | octprecip = 66 | novprecip = 74 | decprecip = 77 | description = Valencia Climate Averages }} ==Talk== Valencia's official languages are [[Catalan phrasebook|Valencian]], which is considered a dialect of Catalan by many linguists, and [[Spanish phrasebook|Spanish]]. Even though it is similar to the Catalan spoken in Catalonia, Valencians are very particular about their language being referred to as "Valencian", and often find it offensive when people refer to it as "Catalan". In the capital of Valencia, which is the third largest city in Spain, not many people speak Valencian, nor are they offended if addressed in Spanish. However, outside the capital, Valencian is often preferred. As in [[Barcelona]] with Catalan, it helps to be sensitive to this language dynamic. However, the linguistic issue is not as controversial as in Barcelona and most people in Valencia speak Spanish as their first and often their only language. Road directional signs are generally bilingual in Spanish and Valencian. The English-speaking skills of the locals can be hit or miss. Most people under 50 speak some English and some quite a bit, but most would prefer being addressed at first in Spanish or Valencian. French is also spoken or understood by some. == Get in == ===By plane=== [[File:Valencia Airport 01.jpg|thumb|Valencia Airport]] * {{listing | type=go | name=Valencia Airport | alt={{IATA|VLC}} | url=http://www.aena.es/csee/Satellite/Aeropuerto-Valencia/en/Page/1048790574453/ | email= | address= | lat=39.489444 | long=-0.481667 | directions=in the neighbouring town of [[Manises]], 9 km from the city centre | phone=+34 961 598 500 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Valencia Airport | wikidata=Q20455825 | content=Major airlines serving Valencia from several domestic and European airports are Air Europa, easyJet, Iberia, Ryanair, Transavia, Vueling and Wizz Air amongst others. Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal (free for the first 30 minutes), and there are a number of restaurants and duty-free shops after security. }} [http://www.metrovalencia.es/page.php?idioma=_en '''Metro Valencia'''] lines {{rint|valencia|3}} and {{rint|valencia|5}} go directly to the town centre and link the airport to the main train station, Estación del Norte (beside the Xàtiva metro stop), running every 8 minutes and taking about 21 minutes. A one-way ticket to the city centre costs €3.90, plus an additional €1 for the cardboard ticket with rechargeable chip; tickets can be purchased at a manned service counter (English spoken) and at vending machines which do accept credit cards. Don't get confused: the paper tickets with magnetic strips are recharchable. There are no trains between the hours of midnight and 05:30. [http://fernanbus.es/ '''Fernanbus''']{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operates bus line [http://www.fernanbus.es/linea.aspx?idlinea=2 '''150''']{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, with buses departing every 15 minutes and terminating at {{marker|type=go|name=Àngel Guimerá, 48|lat=39.46976|long=-0.38863}}, with a full schedule and route map online. Tickets cost €1.50 and the journey takes about 30-40 minutes. A '''taxi''' stand is just outside the arrivals hall. A ride from the airport to Carrer de la Pau, in the heart of the historic city centre approximately 11&nbsp;km away, costs around €20-23 with an additional 'airport supplement' of around €5 (Jan 2015). The tariffs are on display in the taxi in Valencian, Spanish and English but are difficult to see. The same journey back from Carrer de la Pau to the airport is half the price! Book a taxi by calling a radio taxi company or book online at [http://www.booktaxivalencia.com BookTaxiValencia]. * {{listing | name=Direct Taxi Valencia | alt= | url=http://www.taxi-valencia.es/co.uk/index.php | email=directtaxivalencia@gmail.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 960 077 705 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-27 | content=Reservations can be made online. }} * {{listing | name=Radio Taxi Manises | alt= | url=http://radiotaxismanises.es/ | email=info@radiotaxismanises.es | address=Carrer de Villafames, 56 | lat= | long= | directions=Manises | phone=+34 961 521 155 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-14 | content=24 hr. }} * {{listing | name=Radio Taxi Valencia | alt= | url=http://www.radiotaxivalencia.es/ | email= | address=Carrer dels Gremis, 8 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 963 703 333 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-14 | content=24 hr. Reservations can be made [http://radiotaxivalencia.es/radiotaxi/reservar-taxi/ online], or via their smartphone app (iPhone and Android). }} * {{listing | name=Taxis de Valencia | alt= | url=http://www.taxi-valencia.com/services/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 961 119 977 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-27 | content=Reservations can be made [http://www.taxi-valencia.com/services/contact_taxi_valencia.html online]. }} * {{listing | name=Taxi Valencia | alt= | url=http://www.taxivalencia.com/ | email=info@taxivalencia.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 661 719 393 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-11-27 | content=Reservations can be made [http://www.taxivalencia.com/reservas/ online]. }} * '''[https://rideandy.com/poi/valencia-airport Andy]''' offers transfers to Valencia city and other major cities around. Reservations and payment can be made online. === By train === [[File:Estacion Norte Escultura.jpg|thumb|Estació de València Nord]] The traditional main train station is {{marker|type=go|name=València - Estació del Nord|url=http://www.adif.es/en_US/infraestructuras/estaciones/65000/informacion_000080.shtml|lat=39.46611|long=-0.37745|image=Estacion Norte Escultura.jpg}} (''Valencia - Estación del Norte / Valencia - North Station''), which is in the city centre, next to Plaza de Toros and near the Town Hall (''Ayuntamiento''). The main building is a well-preserved modernist structure dating from 1917, and had been declared a National Historical Building. This station is only used by suburban, commuter, regional and mid-distance trains. Facilities include a tourist information office, storage lockers, several cafés and a car rental office. The access to '''Metro València''' underground station {{station|Xàtiva|3|5|9}} is just in front of the main entrance of the train station and {{station|Alacant|10}} is about 300 metres down the left hand sided of the station (looking at front). Being an important hub for the public transport network of the city, the location is served by several bus lines which allow connection to any district or neighbourhood of Valencia. Long-distance and high-speed (TGV, Euromed) trains arrive at {{marker|type=go|name=València - Joaquim Sorolla|url=https://www.adif.es/w/03216-valència-j.-sorolla|lat=39.45901|long=-0.38129|image=Tren AVE, en la estación de Valencia, España, Serie 112 de Renfe.JPG}} (Valencia - Joaquín Sorolla) train station, 800 m from the Nord station. Facilities at this station include storage lockers, a café and car rental office. A free shuttle bus connects the station to València - Estació del Nord with a departure every 10 minutes. This station is served by Metro València lines from {{station|Jesús|1|2|7}}. The national train company is [http://www.renfe.com/EN/viajeros/index.html '''renfe''']. Tickets can be booked online on their website, where significant discounts ('Web' and 'Estrella' fares) are available for early bookings. Valencia is connected with [[Madrid]] by AVE high-speed trains, that run over the Madrid–Levante high-speed rail line. There are now low cost operators [https://www.ouigo.com/es/en '''ouigo'''] , '''[https://iryo.eu/en/home iryo]{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' & '''avlo''' (now bookable from the main renfe website) which operate trains to Madrid. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 35 minutes. Other major cities, such as [[Barcelona]], are also connected with Valencia. The journey from Barcelona takes approximately 3 hours. All rail stations are operated by the national rail infrastructure company [https://www.adif.es/inicio ADIF], you can check train running times & platforms there and on their app. Remember local Cercanías trains are listed separately to longer distance ones. ===By bus=== [[File:Estació d'autobusos de València, exterior.jpg|thumb|Estació d'Autobusos de València]] {{go | name=Estació d'Autobusos de València | alt=Estación de Autobuses de Valencia / Valencia Bus Station | url=http://www.valencia.es/ayuntamiento/infociudad_accesible.nsf/vDocumentosWebListado/EC2664C60EE38311C12572C20023E28C | email= | address=Avinguda de Menéndez Pidal, 11 | lat=39.48104 | long=-0.38827 | directions=metro {{station|Túria|1|2}}} | phone=+34 963 466 266 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=ca:Estació d'Autobusos de València | image=Estació d'autobusos de València, exterior.jpg | wikidata=Q17602517 | lastedit=2015-07-23 | content=A dozen bus companies operate here, with arrivals from almost every big city in [[Spain]] and most cities in the Valencia region. Ticket offices are on the upper floor, as are a café and information booth. }} ===By boat=== * {{listing | name=Port de Valencia | alt=Puerto de Valencia / Port of Valencia | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Port of Valencia | wikidata=Q2069059 | lastedit=2016-05-03 | content= }} ** {{listing | type=go | name=Baleària | alt= | url=https://www.balearia.com/en | email=info@balearia.com | address=Estación Marítima, Moll de la Túria | lat=39.44638 | long=-0.32547 | directions= | phone=+34 902 160 180 (call centre), +34 966 428 700 (customer service) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-14:00 16:30-22:15, Sa 18:30-19:30, Su 18:00-23:30 | price= | wikipedia=Baleària | wikidata=Q804887 | lastedit=2016-05-03 | content=Operates daily ferries from [[Ibiza]] (5 hr, €49) and from [[Palma de Mallorca]] (7½ hr, €55). Snacks are available at the terminal, as are a taxi stand and free Wi-Fi. }} ** {{listing | type=go | name=Trasmediterranea | alt= | url=http://www.trasmediterranea.es/en | email=info@trasmediterranea.es | address=Moll de Ponent, s/n | lat=39.45483 | long=-0.32684 | directions= | phone=+34 902 454 645 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Trasmediterránea | wikidata=Q2562098 | lastedit=2016-05-03 | content=Operates daily ferries from Ibiza (6½ hr, €64) and Palma de Mallorca (8 hr, €50), and weekly ferries from [[Maó]] (''Mahón'') (15 hr, €78). The terminal has a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and a taxi stand. }} == Get around == {{mapframe | 39.470 |-0.380 | height=600 | width=600 | zoom=14 }} {{mapshape}} {{mapshapes|Q511171}} Streets in Valencia have two names, Valencian and Spanish, but most street signs are in Valencian only. Maps may list street names in Valencian or Spanish and rarely both, while addresses may be given in either language, which could create some confusion. Addresses in this guide are generally listed in Valencian. The city has begun changing some Franco-era street names to those commemorating other figures, especially women. By late 2017, about 50 streets had been renamed, with more planned; online mapping services are largely up-to-date but printed maps will likely not be. ===On foot=== Aside from going to the beach and the City of Arts and Sciences, exploring the hub of the city requires no public transportation. Much of this city can be done walking, stopping for a coffee or a beer, and then walking more, all very leisurely. It's not necessary to have the mindset of mastering a complex public transportation system. However, for longer trips, see below for some pointers. ===By public transportation=== Travellers visiting for a short period may want to consider purchasing a [http://shop.visitvalencia.com/en/valencia-tourist-card '''Valencia Tourist Card'''], a one-, two- or three-day pass which allows for unlimited travel on all metro and bus lines, including to/from the airport, over a period of 24 hours (€15), 48 hours (€20), or 72 hours (€25). The card also includes free admission to public museums and monuments, discounted admission for other tourist attractions, and additional discounts at some shops and restaurants. The card can be purchased at any tourist office, including at the airport, or purchased online for a discount and picked up on arrival at a tourist office. There is also a 7 day version without transport. For travellers not interested in the package, or staying longer than three days, the rechargeable '''SUMA 10''' card provides a flexible means of getting around. It is valid for both metro and bus travel. This card allows for ten journeys, including transfers begun within 90 minutes of commencing your journey. The included transfers comprise unlimited transfers between metro (or tram) lines, and a single transfer to or from bus lines (i.e. between buses or to/from the metro). Cards are not personalized, and a single card can be used by multiple people (deducting multiple journeys, of course). The SUMA 10 cards are sold in ticket offices in metro stations, and as of 2025 cost €8 (€4 until 30th June 25) for a single zone. There is an additional fee of €1 for a cardboard cart and €2 for a plastic card. The cards can be recharged at any metro ticket machine. The public transport network is divided into zones A, B, and + (see [https://www.metrovalencia.es/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Plano-zonal-tarifario-Metrovalencia-.pdf map], ). There is a significant overlap between zones A and B. Most tourist destinations, including the beach, are located in zone A. Zone + consists solely of the airport. The EMT (bus) website has a very helpful [http://www.emtvalencia.es/geoportal/?lang=en_otp route-planner]{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, useful for planning journeys not only by bus but also by metro, bicycle, and Valenbisi (see the bicycle section below). ====By metro==== [[File:Metro de valència.jpg|thumb|Metro Valencia]] The '''[https://www.metrovalencia.es/en/ Metro Valencia]''' consists of nine lines (three of which are tramlines) and connects the suburbs with the city. This metro system is not extensive, but can get you to major points within the city. Maps and timetables can be downloaded [http://www.metrovalencia.es/page.php?page=145 here]. In 2025, the one-way fare for a single zone is €1.50. The ticket costs an additional €1 and contains a rechargeable chip. Make sure to always keep your ticket, as you must present it when getting off as well. If you want to enter the tram, you must buy a ticket from the machine (at each tram stop), and then validate it ''before'' you get on OR if you are using a SUMA 10 card validate it on the platform before getting on (but not off) the tram. If you use the metro a lot, you should consider getting a 10-fare '''SUMA 10''' card (see above). If you still have an unexpired Móbilis card from a previous trip, you can load a SUMA 10 ticket on it. '''NOTE''' Parts of the metro were closed following the October 2024 floods, for a current map click [https://www.metrovalencia.es/en/check-maps/ here]. Starting in 2022 several stations were renamed from Castilian to Valancian names e.g. Aragon is now called Aragó. You may find inconsistencies is naming in some 3rd party apps like Google Maps. Standard bicycles are permitted during the workweek only on portions of the network which operate above ground. On Saturday, Sunday and holidays they are permitted throughout, while folding bicycles may be transported at any time. No bicycles are permitted at all during Fallas and the night of San Juan. Pets in carriers and guide or personal assistance dogs are also permitted. ====By train==== Valencia has a Cercanías suburban rail network with [https://www.renfe.com/es/en/suburban/suburban-valencia/maps five lines] radiating out from the '''Estació del Nord''' to well beyond the city. Note these trains are timetabled & ticketed separately to main line trains lookout for the {{rint|es|cercanias}} symbol. You can pay for these trains with a contactless bank card at the ticket barriers. ====By bus==== [[File:Valencia Bus Turistic.jpg|thumb|Public EMT bus and Valencia Bus Turistic]] [http://www.emtvalencia.es/ciudadano/index.php '''EMT''']{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} runs buses to virtually every part of the city, both day and night. A single ticket costs €2 (no transfers, 2025), payable to the bus driver on entry and can be paid in cash or with a bank card. (note: the EMT website is geo-blocked and only works when connected to a Spanish network) For frequent travellers, the rechargeable '''Bonobús''' card is available in kiosks and tobacco shops. It will allow you ten rides for €8.50 (as of early 2018). However, the '''SUMA 10''', which is also valid and metro and tram lines, usually is the cheaper and more convenient option (see above). Bonobús cards can be recharged at [https://www.emtvalencia.es/ciudadano/index.php?option=com_pventas&view=pventas&Itemid=67&lang=en kiosks]{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} or online. For travellers with smartphones, there is a very helpful official EMT app (iPhone and Android), which has a route planner and a QRT reader. Most bus stops now have digital displays listing the arrival times for the next bus. At those stops lacking the digital display it is still easy to find out the next arrival times, by using either a QRT reader (like the one built into the EMT app), or by sending a SMS with the unique number of the bus stop to a number displayed next to the posted route plan. ===By tourist bus=== {{listing | name=Valencia Bus Turistic | alt= | type=go | url=http://valenciabusturistic.com/es/index | email=valenciabusturistic@valenciabusturistic.com | address=Plaça de la Reina, 10 | lat=39.47453 | long=-0.37590 | directions= | phone=+34 699 982 514 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 09:30-20:00 (office) | price=24/48 hour tickets: €17/19 (adults), €10/11 (children 7-16), free (children under 7); 12% discount with the ''Valencia Tourist Card'' (available at tourist information centres) | lastedit=2017-06-01 | content=In cooperation with the city's official tourism office Valencia Bus Turistic operates a hop-on, hop-off bus service which covers two routes: the [http://valenciabusturistic.com/es/rutas/index/1 '''Historic Route'''], which covers most of the centre of the city (schedule available [http://valenciabusturistic.com/es/horarios/index/1 here]), and the [http://valenciabusturistic.com/es/rutas/index/2 '''Maritime Route'''], which visits the Royal Marina, the City of Arts and Sciences, and the beaches (schedule available [http://valenciabusturistic.com/es/horarios/index/2 here]). Each route includes a guided commentary in multiple languages, and the two routes intersect at three locations; it is permitted to combine both routes, if desired. Tickets can be purchased at any bus stop, tourist information centre, and in many hotels. }} ===By bicycle=== [[File:Bicisvalenbisi.jpg|thumb|Valenbisi station]] Valencia is essentially flat, and cycling has become a popular way for visitors to get around. The city has established a comprehensive network of dedicated bicycle paths and lanes, and the Turia river park very conveniently cuts across the city, making it possible to get from one end to the other with minimal time in traffic. Drivers are now accustomed to interacting with cyclists in traffic, although pedestrians still occasionally wander into bike paths. Riding on sidewalks without demarcated bicycle paths is not permitted, but this is generally not enforced. At night lights are required, and a helmet and reflective vest are recommended. A bicycle route map can be downloaded [http://www.valenbisi.com/content/download/28060/153115/version/1/file/Plano+Estaciones+Valenbisi.pdf here]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. The city operates [http://www.valenbisi.com/ '''Valenbisi'''], a popular bicycle sharing program, with 275 stations distributed throughout the city. The Valenbici app (available in app stores) can be downloaded and used to pay for subscriptions and unlock bikes. No reservation is necessary – once you have a Valenbisi card/app, go to the interactive station terminal, follow the instructions in Valencian, Spanish or English, and choose a bicycle. You can return the bicycle to the same or any other station with available docks. One day and one week short-term subscriptions exist, and cost €3.99 for a day or €13.30 for a week. This gives you access to unlimited use of the bikes for selected duration, where the first half-hour of any journey is free, then €1.04 is charged for the first two additional half-hours, with €3.12 charged for every additional hour. However, if you park the bicycle in an available dock before the first half-hour is up, you can take out a new bicycle and reset the clock for no additional fees. Weekly subscriptions can be purchased in the app or at any station terminal with a credit card. For periods longer than one week, an annual subscription is necessary and costs €29.21 (2025), with reduced tariffs for each additional half-hour (after 30 minutes, €0.52 for the first additional hour then €2.08 for each subsequent hour, 2025). If purchasing the annual card (not using the app), they must be purchased online and are sent by mail; or for less hasssle, it is possible to attach your Valenbisi subscription to a valid ''Bonometro'', ''Bonobús'', or ''Bono transbordo'' card – see the website for details. There are also many bicycle rental shops in town, with most charging around €10-15 a day, depending on season. * {{listing | type=go | name=DoYouBike | alt= | url=http://doyoubike.com/rental/en/ | email=info@doyoubike.com | address=Carrer del Mar, 14 | lat=39.47382 | long=-0.37401 | directions=near the cathedral | phone=+34 963 155 551 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 09:45-14:00, 17:00-20:15 | price=€2/hour, or €9/day during the week, €12/day on weekends, helmet and pump €1 | content=Rents bikes. Other locations at Carrer de la Sang, 9; Avinguda del Port, 141 }} * {{Listing|name=EcoBikeRent|alt=|url=https://ecobikerent.com/|email= |address=Carrer d'Ercilla, 23 (near Central Market)|lat=|long=|directions= |phone=+34 691773051|tollfree=|fax= |hours=Daily 09:30-20:00|price=from €5|lastedit=2020-06-18 |content=Also offers electric scooter rental. Other locations at Carrer de Roteros, 1; Carrer de les Avellanes, 6; Carrer de Quart, 9}} * {{go | name=Bike in Mind Valencia | alt= | url=https://bikeinmindvalencia.com/en/ | email=info@bikeinmindvalencia.com | address=Calle Donoso Cortés 12 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 684054683 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 09:30-20:00 | price=from {{EUR|6}} / 4 hours, {{EUR|9}} / all day | lastedit=2023-03-18 | content=Bikes and e-bikes rental. }} * {{listing | name=valenciaGUiAS | alt= | type=go | url=http://www.valenciaguias.com/en/bike-rental/ | email=info@valenciaguias.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 963 851 740 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 850 827 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-12-07 | content= }} * {{listing | type=go | name=Valencia Bikes Pechina | alt= | url= | email= | address=Passeig de la Petxina, 32 | lat=39.47691 | long=-0.39144 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 09:30-20:00 | price=€5/hour, or €10/day | lastedit=2015-12-07 | content=Another location is at Carrer de la Tapineria. }} ===By car=== In the city, especially the centre, having a car is more of an impediment than an advantage, and visitors may well find it easier to just park it and walk. ==See== ===Monuments and architecture=== [[File:Oceanogràfic 12122006.jpg|thumb|L’Oceanogràfic in the City of Arts and Sciences]] [[File:23 Underwater tunnel in Valencia Aquarium - Valencia Oceanarium (L'Oceanografic), Spain.jpg|thumb|Visitors in underwater tunnel of L’Oceanogràfic]] [[File:Catedral de Valencia, Valencia, España, 2014-06-30, DD 150.JPG|thumb|Capella del Sant Calze with the Holy Grail]] [[File:Lonja de la Seda, Valencia, España, 2014-06-29, DD 28.JPG|thumbnail|''Sala Consulado del Mar'' ('Consulate of the Sea') in the Llotja de la Seda]] * {{see | name=Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències | alt=Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias / City of Arts and Science | url=http://www.cac.es/?languageId=1 | email= | address=Av Autopista del Saler, 5 | lat= | long= | directions=take metro to {{station|Ciutat Arts i Ciències - Justícia|10}} | phone=+34 90 210 0031 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Call centre: M-F 09:00-20:00, Sa 10:00-20:00, Su 10:00-15:00 | price=Combined admission for all sights (mid season): €46.40 (adults), €36.30 (reduced); valid for 3 days, however the same venue cannot be visited twice. You can buy day tickets for individual sections, see below. | wikipedia=City of Arts and Sciences | wikidata=Q239935 |lastedit=2025-03-13| content=This ultra-modern architectural complex on the former Turia riverbed was designed by Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava and Spanish-Mexican architect Félix Candela. If you don't want to pay the steep admission charges to the individual sights, you can wander around the complex and appreciate the architecture from outside for free. }} ** {{see | name=El Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe | alt=Museo de las Ciencias Príncipe Felipe / Príncipe Felipe Science Museum | url=http://www.cac.es/en/museu-de-les-ciencies.html | email= | address= | lat=39.4558 | long=-0.3516 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Winter M-Th 10:00-18:00, F Sa 10:00-19:00; spring/fall and Christmas season daily 10:00-19:00; summer daily 10:00-21:00 | price=€9.40 (adults), €6.90 (concessions) | wikipedia=Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe | image=Museo Príncipe Felipe, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, Valencia, España, 2014-06-29, DD 56.JPG | wikidata=Q939288 | lastedit=2025-03-13 | content=A science museum designed to resemble a whale skeleton, it has interactive exhibits on three floors. }} ** {{see | name=L’Oceanogràfic | alt= | url=https://www.oceanografic.org/en/ | email= | address= | lat=39.4531 | long=-0.3472 | directions={{station|Oceanogràfic|10}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=[https://www.oceanografic.org/en/prices-and-schedules/ Hours vary by season, open daily] {{dead link|December 2020}} | price=high season €41.80 (adults), €31.00 (concessions) | wikipedia=L'Oceanogràfic | image=L'Oceanografic, Valencia, Spain 2 - Jan 07.jpg | wikidata=Q2447851 | lastedit=2025-05-14 | content=The largest oceanarium in Europe, and the second-largest in the world, has seven sections devoted to different ecological zones. The building was designed by Félix Candela to resemble a water lily. Highlights include a dolphinarium, a walk-through shark tunnel, a shark tank (open for public diving), and spherical bird aviary. There are several restaurants on-site, and with so many attractions it’s easy to make this into an all-day affair. }} ** {{see | name=L’Umbracle | alt= | url=http://www.cac.es/umbracle/ | email= | address= | lat=39.4552 | long=-0.3538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free | wikipedia=L'Umbracle | image=L'Umbracle, Valencia, Spain - Jan 2007.jpg | wikidata=Q2437999 | lastedit=2015-07-03 | content=A botanic garden landscaped with plants native to Valencia. The park also has the '''Jardí d'Astronomia''' (''Jardín de la Astronomía'' / Astronomy Garden) and the '''Passeig de l'Art''' (''Paseo del Arte'' / Art Promenade), which has permanent and temporary exhibits of large-scale contemporary art, mostly sculpture. }} ** {{see | name=L'Àgora | alt= | url=http://www.cac.es/agora/ | email= | address= | lat=39.4539 | long=-0.3497 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=L'Àgora | image=Àgora 02112010.jpg | wikidata=Q2634180 | lastedit=2015-07-03 | content=A multi-use covered plaza, designed for sporting events, concerts, and special exhibits. }} ** {{see | name=Pont de l'Assut de l'Or | alt=Puente de l'Assut de l'Or / Assut de l'Or Bridge | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.4547 | long=-0.3497 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Assut de l'Or Bridge | image=Agora y Pont de l'Assut de l'Or.jpg | wikidata=Q2458493 | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=The striking cable-stayed bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava and completed in 2008, crosses the dry Túria riverbed. At 125 m high, the bridge tower is the highest point in Valencia. }} * {{see | name=Catedral de Santa María de València | alt=La Seu / Valencia Cathedral | url=https://catedraldevalencia.es/ | email=patrimonio@catedraldevalencia.es | address=Plaça de la Reina, s/n | lat=39.47560 | long=-0.37506 | directions= | phone=+34 96 391 8127 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Nov-Mar: M-Sa 10:00-17:30; Apr-Oct: M-Sa 10:00-18:30, Su 14:00-18:30; last admission 45 min before closing | price=€9 (adults), €6 (reduced) | wikipedia=Valencia Cathedral | image=Plaça maededéu1.jpg | wikidata=Q1466926 | lastedit=2015-08-09 | content=It was the site of a Roman temple, then a Visigothic cathedral, and then a Moorish grand mosque. It is now the seat of the archbishropic of Valencia. The current Gothic structure was begun in 1262 and remodeled numerous times, resulting in a structure with elements from three distinct architectural periods. Especially notable are the ''Puerta de los Apóstoles'' from the 14th century, and the ''Puerta del Palau'', the oldest doorway of the cathedral, which is Romanesque with Moorish influences. }} ** {{see | name=Capella del Sant Calze | alt=Capilla del Santo Cáliz / Chapel of the Holy Chalice | url=http://www.catedraldevalencia.es/en/el-santo-caliz_lacapilla.php | email= | address= | lat=39.47516 | long=-0.37503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Catedral de Valencia, Valencia, España, 2014-06-30, DD 150.JPG | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-08-09 | content=The focus of this side chapel is a chalice of agate, believed by the devout to be none other than the Holy Grail. Of the handful of similar chalices with the same claim, this is deemed by many scholars to be the most likely candidate as it has been dated by experts to the 1st century BCE. }} ** {{see | name=Micalet | alt=El Miguelete | url=http://www.catedraldevalencia.es/en/miguelete-torre.php | email= | address= | lat=39.47529 | long=-0.37560 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00-13:00, 16:30-19:00 | price=€3 (adults), €1.50 (children under 14) | wikipedia=es:El Miguelete | image=Catedral de Valencia, Valencia, España, 2014-06-29, DD 16.JPG | wikidata=Q2975344 | lastedit=2015-08-09 | content=The unusual octagonal bell tower, with a height of 51 m, was built in the 14th and 15th centuries. It provides a pleasing view of the city. }} * {{see | name=Cripta arqueològica de la presó de Sant Vicent Màrtir | alt=Cripta Arqueológica de la Cárcel de San Vicente Mártir / Archaeological Crypt of the Prison of San Vicente | url= | email= | address=Plaza del Arzobispo, 3 | lat=39.475860 | long=-0.37411 | directions= | phone=+34 962 084 573 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:30-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 | price=€2 (adults), €1 (concessions), free on Su and holidays | wikipedia=ca:Cripta Arqueològica de Sant Vicent Màrtir | image=Cripta arqueològica de la presó de Sant Vicent Màrtir de València.JPG | wikidata=Q11916088 | lastedit=2015-11-16 | content=This Visigothic chapel has on display objects discovered during its excavation including a Visigothic altar, Roman mural, Muslim artifacts, and a sculpture of the early Christian Saint Vicente Mártir, who is believed to have been buried here. }} * {{see | name=Llotja de la Seda | alt=La Lonja de la Seda / Silk Exchange | url= | email=lonja@valencia.es | address=Carrer de la Llotja, 2 | lat=39.47441 | long=-0.37843 | directions= | phone=+34 96 208 4153 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:30-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 | price=€2 (adults), €1 (concessions), free on Su and holidays | wikipedia=Llotja de la Seda | image=Llonja.jpg | wikidata=Q588009 | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=This [[UNESCO]] landmark is considered to be one of the most significant secular Gothic buildings in Europe. It was built between 1482 and 1533 on the site of an earlier oil exchange. The Llotja consists of four distinct parts: the ''Sala de Contractació'' (Trading Hall), also known as the ''Saló Columnari'' (Hall of Columns); the ''Sala Consulado del Mar'' with its magnificent ceiling; the unfinished ''Torre'' (tower) with its debtor prison (temporarily closed to visitors), and the ''Pati dels Tarongers'' (Patio of Oranges). Some of the Gothic gargoyles are quite naughty. }} [[File:WLM14ES - CONVENTO DE SAN MIGUEL DE LOS REYES DE VALENCIA 06122009 120535 00004 - .jpg|thumb|Monestir de Sant Miquel dels Reis]] [[File:Torres de Serrans.jpg|thumb|Torres de Serranos]] * {{see | name=Església de Sant Nicolau | alt=Iglesia de San Nicolás / Church of San Nicolás | url=http://sannicolasvalencia.com/ | email=info@sannicolasvalencia.com | address=Carrer dels Cavallers, 35 | lat=39.47613 | long=-0.37881 | directions= | phone=+34 963 913 317 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Oct-Jun: Tu-F 10:30-19:00, Sa 10:30-18:30, Su 13:00-20:00; Jul-Sep: Tu-F 10:30-21:00, Sa 10:30-19:30, Su 11:30-21:00 | price=€11 (adults), €4 (seniors/students/disabled), free (children under 12) | wikipedia=Church of San Nicolás (Valencia) | image=Voltes de l'església de sant Nicolau, València.JPG | wikidata=Q9007252 | lastedit=2018-02-18 | content=Established in the 13th century, the church was expanded in several phases, culminating in the current 15th-century Gothic structure. During the late 17th century extensive Baroque renovations were carried out to the interior, the most significant of them being ceiling frescoes. This remarkable set of frescoes completely covers the vault of the nave and the presbytery, and illustrates the lives of St. Nicolás and St. Peter. They were designed by the Italian master Antonio Palomino and painted by his student, Dionis Vidal, and have been completely restored.<br>Tourists are not permitted to visit during mass or other liturgical celebrations. }} * {{see | name=Monestir de Sant Miquel dels Reis | alt=Biblioteca Valenciana Nicolau Primitiu / Monastery of San Miguel de los Reyes | url=https://bv.gva.es/va/visites | email= | address=Avinguda de la Constitució, 284 | lat=39.49931 | long=-0.36909 | directions=Els Orriols | phone=+34 963 874 000 | tollfree= | hours=Tours: Sa Su and holidays 12:00, 13:00; no reservation required | price=Free | wikipedia=es:Monasterio de San Miguel de los Reyes | image=Monestir de Sant Miquel dels Reis Monasterio de San Miguel de los Reyes.jpg | wikidata=Q4891102 | lastedit=2017-08-09 | content=Founded in the 16th century, this massive Renaissance building is considered by some historians to be the early model for the more well-known [[El Escorial]] near [[Madrid]]. In 1835 the monastery was dissolved and came under control of the state; it was used for a time as a school, an asylum, and during the Franco period as a prison. It was fully restored in 1997-2000, and now houses the central library of the Valencian Community, the collection of which includes many of the original volumes kept here during the building's monastic period. Guided architectural tours of the building are offered on weekends (Spanish/Valencian only). }} * {{see | name=Torres de Quart | alt=Porta de Quart | url= | email=patrimoniohistorico@valencia.es | address=Plaça de Sta Úrsula, 1 | lat=39.47573 | long=-0.38390 | directions=at the end of Carrer de Quart | phone=+34 96 208 3907 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:30-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 | price=€2 (adults), €1 (concessions), free on Su and holidays | wikipedia=es:Torres de Quart | image=Torres quart frontal2.jpg | wikidata=Q2343754 | lastedit=2018-01-14 | content=This medieval tower was part of the wall that surrounded the old city; the numerous pock-marks are from gun battles during the Spanish War of Independence from the French (1807-1814). Great views of the city can be had from the top. }} * {{see | name=Torres de Serrano | alt=Porta de Serrans | url= | email=patrimoniohistorico@valencia.es | address=Plaça dels Furs, s/n | lat=39.47920 | long=-0.37601 | directions= | phone=+34 96 391 9070 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:30-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 | price=€2 (adults), €1 (concessions), free on Su and holidays | wikipedia=Torres de Serranos | image=Torres de Serrans.jpg | wikidata=Q2455550 | lastedit=2015-06-16 | content=Built in 1392, this gate was also part of the ancient wall and for a time also served as a prison. The gate has been massively renovated and somewhat modernized, but is still interesting. It is across the street from the park. This tower also offers excellent views. }} * {{see | name=Almodí | alt=Almudín | url= | email=patrimoniohistorico@valencia.es | address=Plaça Sant Lluís Bertrán, s/n | lat=39.47655 | long=-0.37386 | directions= | phone=+34 96 352 5478 x4521 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:30-14:00 15:00-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 | price=€2 (adults), €1 (concessions), free on Su and holidays | wikipedia=es:Almudín de Valencia | image=Almodí de València.JPG | wikidata=Q8196158 | lastedit=2015-06-28 | content=Constructed in the early 14th century on the site of a Moorish palace, the building is essentially Moorish in design and used to function as the municipal granary; its name is derived directly from 'almud' (Arabic: bushel). The building was fully restored in 1996 and is now a venue for temporary art exhibitions. }} [[File:Sala tèbia dels banys de l'Almirall de València.JPG|thumb|Banys de l'Almirall (Almirante Muslim Baths)]] * {{see | name=Banys de l'Almirall | alt=Baños del Almirante / Almirante Muslim Baths | url=http://www.visitvalencia.com/en/what-to-visit-valencia/monuments/list-of-monuments/monument/the-almirante-muslim-baths | email=didactica@consorciomuseos.es | address=Baños del Almirante, 3-5 | lat=39.47488 | long=-0.37341 | directions= | phone=+34 963 152 024 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 11:00-14:00 | price=€2 (adults), €1 (concessions) | wikipedia=es:Baños del Almirante | image=Sala tèbia dels banys de l'Almirall de València.JPG | wikidata=Q511925 | lastedit=2015-07-04 | content=Although constructed in 1313 after the Christian reconquista, the bathhouse was built in the Arabic style and is considered to be an excellent example of Moorish architecture. It was used continuously as a bathhouse until the 20th century, and is one of the few remaining such structures in Spain. It was fully restored in 2005. }} * {{see | name=Drassanes del Grau | alt=Atarazanas del Grao / Royal Shipyards | url= | email= | address=Plaça Juan Antonio Benlliure, s/n | lat=39.46132 | long=-0.33357 | directions= | phone=+34 96 352 5478 x4299 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 09:30-14:00 15:00-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 | price=€2 (adults), €1 (concessions), free on Su and holidays | wikipedia=es:Atarazanas del Grao | image=Atarazanas Derecha.jpg | wikidata=Q8207890 | lastedit=2015-07-12 | content=These Gothic shipyards date to the early 14th century, and attained their current layout in 1500. Trade ships were built and repaired here, as well as galleys used for defense against Barbary pirates. Later the building was used as a storehouse for salt, and now functions as a venue for temporary exhibits. Due to the shifting coastline over the centuries, the shipyards are now two blocks inland from the shore. }} * {{see | name=Palau de Cervelló | alt=Palacio de Cervelló / Cervelló Palace | url= | email=patrihco@valencia.es | address=Plaça de Tetuán, 3 | lat=39.47414 | long=-0.37043 | directions= | phone=+34 963 525 478 x4496 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00 16:30-20:30, Su and holidays 10:00-15:00 | price=€2 (adults), €1 (concessions), free on Su and holidays | wikipedia=es:Palacio de Cervellón | image=Biblioteca Serrano Morales del Palau de Cervelló, València.JPG | wikidata=Q9054454 | lastedit=2015-08-09 | content=Built in the 18th century as the residence of the counts of Cervelló, this palace became the official residence for visiting royalty following the demolition of the ''Palau Reial de València''. The building now houses a museum, the Municipal Archive, and the Serrano Morales Library. On the ground floor is an exhibit (in Catalan and Spanish) illustrating the historic events which took place here, and on the upper floor are the grand ballroom and Serrano Morales Library, with original murals and furnishings. }} * {{see | name=Casa de Sant Vicent Ferrer | alt=Casa Natalicia de San Vicente Ferrer / Home of San Vicente Ferrer | url= | email= | address=Carrer del Pouet de Sant Vicent, 1 | lat=39.47335 | long=-0.37058 | directions= | phone=+34 963 528 481 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Panell ceràmic amb el milacre del mocadoret, casa natal de sant Vicent Ferrer.JPG | hours=M-F 11:00-13:00, 17:00-20:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2015-11-16 | content=Sant Vicent Ferrer, the principal patron saint of Valencia, was born in this house in 1350. The house was renovated numerous times, and has a chapel, well, and 18th-century ceramic tile panels depicting the life of the saint. }} * {{see | name=Torre de l'Àngel | alt=Torre del Angel / Angel Tower | url= | email= | address=Plaça de l'Àngel | lat=39.47818 | long=-0.37769 | directions=Carmen | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=ca:Torre de l'Àngel (València) | image=Torre de l'Àngel, València.JPG | wikidata=Q11952297 | lastedit=2017-01-10 | content=One of the few vestiges from Valencia's Muslim period, the semicircular 11th-century tower was once part of the Muslim city wall. It is now a private dwelling, but can be viewed through a fence. }} ===Museums=== [[File:Cathédrale Saint-Apollinaire et Basilique Nostra Señora de los Desemparados (8276231733).jpg|thumb|View of the cathedral, with the Centre Arqueològic de l'Almoina in the foreground]] [[File:València, Museo Nacional de Cerámica Palacio Marques Dos Aguas-PM 51840.jpg|thumb|Façade of the Palau del Marqués de Dosaigües, now the Museu Nacional de Ceràmica]] [[File:Hall entrada.jpg|thumb|Museu d'Història de València, in a 19th-century reservoir]] * {{see | name=Centre Arqueològic de l'Almoina | alt=Centro Arqueológico de la Almoina | url= | email=patrimoniohistorico@valencia.es | address=Plaça Dècim Juni Brut, s/n | lat=39.47619 | long=-0.37422 | directions=behind the cathedral | phone=+34 96 208 4173 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 09:30-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 | price=€2 (adults), €1 (concessions); free on Su and public holidays | wikipedia=es:Museo de la Almoina | image=Centre arqueològic de l'Almoina de València, exterior.JPG | wikidata=Q3867999 | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content=This extensive site was uncovered in 1985 during preparations for new construction, which was then cancelled. Excavations revealed archeological remains dating from the Moorish, Visigothic, and Roman periods. After completing excavations, the city of Valencia converted the site into an underground museum. Highlights include Roman baths, a Moorish courtyard, and various artifacts. }} * {{see | name=Museu Nacional de Ceràmica | alt=Museo Nacional de Cerámica / National Ceramics Museum | url=http://www.mecd.gob.es/mnceramica/en/home.html | email=informacion.mceramica@mecd.es | address=Poeta Querol, 2 | lat=39.47255 | long=-0.37481 | directions= | phone=+34 96 351 6392 | tollfree= | fax=+34 96 351 3512 | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00 16:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00 | price=€3 (adults), €1.50 (concessions); free on Sa afternoon and Su, 18 May, 18 Apr, 12 Oct, and 6 Dec | wikipedia=González Martí National Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts | image=València, Museo Nacional de Cerámica Palacio Marques Dos Aguas-PM 51840.jpg | wikidata=Q9046886 | lastedit=2015-06-06 | content=This very ornate Baroque palace once served as the residence of the Marqués de Dos Aigües, and is now a museum. The ground and first floors showcase a collection of stagecoaches and period furniture, while the upper two floors house an extensive ceramics collection with a focus on historic Valencian pieces. Of particular note are Moorish ceramic tiles from the main mosque which was on the site now occupied by the cathedral, and six plates designed by Picasso. Photography permitted, no flash. }} * {{see | name=Museu d'Història de València | alt=Museo de Historia de Valencia / Museum of Valencian History | url=https://mhv.valencia.es/ | email=info@mhv.com.es | address=Camino Viejo de Chirivella, 1 | lat=39.47271 | long=-0.40824 | directions={{station|Nou d'Octubre|3|5|9}} | phone=+34 96 370 1105 | tollfree= | fax=+34 96 370 1136 | hours=Tu-Sa 09:30-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 | price=€2 (adults), €1 (concessions), free on Su and public holidays | wikipedia=Valencia History Museum | image=Fachada principal MhV.jpg | wikidata=Q9047049 | lastedit=2025-05-20 | content=Housed in a former reservoir, this well-designed museum is dedicated to the developmental history of the city, from the Roman era until the present. Although labels are in Valencian and Spanish, booklets with English translations are available at the front desk. Constructed in 1850, the building is interesting in its own right as an excellent example of 19th century industrial architecture. }} * {{see | name=Centre Cultural la Beneficència | alt=Centre Valencià de Cultura Mediterrània / Centro Valenciano de Cultura Mediterránea | url= | email= | address=Carrer de la Corona, 36 | lat=39.47849 | long=-0.38315 | directions= | phone=+34 96 388 3565 | tollfree= | fax=+34 96 388 3608 | hours= | price= | wikipedia=es:Centro Cultural la Beneficencia | image=Beneficiencia valencia.jpg | wikidata=Q8343592 | lastedit=2015-08-16 | content=This 19th-century former hospice was completely refurbished in 1995, and now in addition to hosting two museums it also functions as a cultural centre and venue for special exhibits. }} ** {{see | name=Museu de Prehistòria de València | alt=Museo de Prehistoria de Valencia / Prehistory Museum of Valencia | url=http://www.museuprehistoriavalencia.es | email=servici.visites@xarxamuseus.com | address=Carrer de la Corona, 36 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 96 388 3579 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-20:00 | price=free | wikidata=Q2701512 | lastedit=2015-08-16 | content=This museum is devoted early regional history, with collections from the Paleolithic to the Visigothic periods. A special highlight is the ''Guerrer de Moixent'' (Warrior of Moixent), an early Iberian bronze sculpture from the 5th or 4th century BCE. }} ** {{see | name=Museu Valencià d'Etnologia | alt=Museo Valenciano de Etnología / Valencian Museum of Ethnology | url=http://www.museuvalenciaetnologia.es/es | email=muvaet@dival.es | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 96 388 3614 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-20:00 | price=free | wikipedia=Valencian Museum of Ethnology | wikidata=Q1577723 | lastedit=2017-02-02 | content=The focus of this museum is on cultural traditions in the Valencian Autonomous Community, with three permanent exhibits focusing on life in the country, in the mountains, and in urban areas. Rotating temporary exhibits examine historic and sociological issues. }} * {{see | name=Museu dels Soldadets de Plom L'Iber | alt=Museo L'Iber / Tin Soldier Museum | url=http://www.museoliber.org/ | email=info@museoliber.org | address=Carrer dels Cavallers, 20-22 | lat=39.47673 | long=-0.37823 | directions= | phone=+34 963 91 8675 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Sep-Jun: Tu-Su 11:00-14:00, 16:00-19:00; Jul Aug: daily 10:00-14:00, 15:00-20:00 | price=€5 adults, €3 concessions | wikipedia=es:Museo de Soldaditos de Plomo L’Iber | image=Visita de Maria Cristina a la catedral de València, 1888, museu dels soldadets de plom l'Iber.JPG | wikidata=Q9047028 | lastedit=2015-09-07 | content=In an old Gothic palace, this is the world's largest private collection of tin soldiers of about one million pieces. Figures represent periods of Valencian, Spanish, and world history. }} * {{see | name=Museo Histórico Militar de Valencia | alt= | url=http://www.amigosmuseovalencia.es/ | email=acamuseo@hmval.e.telefonica.net | address=Carrer del General Gil Dolz, 6 | lat=39.4720 | long=-0.3617 | directions= | phone=+34 96 369 1904 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Mortero Pesado de 120 mm Modelo Valero.jpg | hours=M-Sa 10:00-14:00 16:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2015-09-07 | content=Built in 1898 for an infantry regiment, the building now houses a collection of over 3,000 objects, most of them from the 19th and 20th centuries. }} * {{see | name=Museo de l'Arròs | alt=Museo del Arroz / Museum of Rice | url=https://museodelarrozdevalencia.com/index.php?id=1&idioma=castellano | email= | address=Carrer del Rosari, 3 | lat=39.463193 | long=0.331897 | directions=Metro {{station|Marítim|5|7}}; Metro-Tram {{station|Grau - La Marina|6|8}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 09:30-14:00 15:00-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 | price=€2 adults; €1 seniors, children, students, groups | image=Museu de l'arròs (València), ensacadores.JPG | lastedit=2025-05-14 | content=The Museum of Rice of the City of Valencia is in the refurbished and restored old Serra’s Mill. It tells the story of the industrial process of rice processing, a cereal whose growth goes deep into the wetlands of the City. }} * {{see | name=Colegio del Arte Mayor de la Seda | alt=Museo de la Seda / Silk Museum | url=https://www.museodelasedavalencia.com/en/ | email=reservas@museodelasedavalencia.com | address=Carrer de l'Hospital, 7 | lat=39.47085 | long=-0.38092 | directions= | phone=+34 697 155 299 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su M 10:00-15:00, Tu-Sa 10:00-19:00 | price=€6 adults, €4.50 seniors/students, free children under 5; free multilingual audioguide | wikipedia=es:Colegio del Arte Mayor de la Seda | image=Telar manual y máquina de Jacquard 14.jpg | wikidata=Q8347734 | lastedit=2018-01-26 | content=The Moors introduced silk to Valencia, and it became a major hub of the silk trading route during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The Valencian silk weavers' guild was established in the late 15th century, and in 1494 acquired this building, which remained the guild's headquarters throughout its history. The building was remodelled extensively during subsequent centuries, and was fully restored in 2016. Now a museum, it showcases various aspects of Valencia's silk trade and production. }} ===Art museums and galleries=== [[File:Museu de Belles Arts de València, RI-51-0001413.jpg|thumb|Museu de Belles Arts de València]] [[File:Casa-museu Benlliure de València, estudi.JPG|thumb|Casa-Museu Benlliure]] [[File:La Nau Universitat de València Claustre.JPG|thumb|Centre Cultural La Nau]] * {{see | name=Museu de Belles Arts de València | alt=Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia / Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia | url=http://museobellasartesvalencia.gva.es/ | email=museobellasartesvalencia@gva.es | address=Carrer de Sant Pius V, 9 | lat=39.4793 | long=-0.3708 | directions= | phone=+34 96 387 0300 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-20:00; closed 1 Jan and 25 Dec | price=Free | wikipedia=Museu de Belles Arts de València | image=Museu de Belles Arts de València, RI-51-0001413.jpg | wikidata=Q1748404 | lastedit=2025-03-13 | content=This 17th-century former palace houses over 2,000 pieces of art, with a primary focus on art of the 14th to 17th centuries. Highlights include an excellent collection of medieval altarpieces, a collection of engravings by the Italian artist Piranesi, and a handful of minor works by Velázquez, El Greco, and Goya. Photography permitted, no flash. }} * {{see | name=Institut Valencià d'Art Modern | alt=IVAM / Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno / Valencian Institute of Modern Art | url=http://www.ivam.es/en/ | email=ivam@ivam.es | address=Guillem de Castro, 118 | lat=39.4797 | long=-0.3827 | directions=bus C1 stops outside | phone=+34 96 386 3000 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 11:00-19:00; closed on 25 Dec and 1 Jan | price=€5 adults; free admission on Sunday & Wednesday 16:00-19:00 | wikipedia=Institut Valencià d'Art Modern | image=Ivam.jpg | wikidata=Q1600831 | lastedit=2025-05-14 | content=This museum focuses on Spanish and international modern art and photography, and hosts regular special exhibits, workshops, and lectures. A library, gift shop, and café are onsite. Photography permitted, no flash. }} * {{see | name=Museo del Patriarca | alt= | url=http://patriarcavalencia.es/?lang=en | email=info@patriarcavalencia.es | address=Carrer de la Nau, 1 | lat=39.47263 | long=-0.37306 | directions= | phone=+34 96 351 4176 | tollfree= | fax=+34 96 351 1351 | hours=M-F 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 12:30, 17:00, 18:00; Sa 11:00, 12:00, 12:30 | price=€7 premium tour including museum, courtyard, church, and chapel; €5 standard tour including the courtyard, church, and chapel; €4 museum tour only; €6 premium tour for concessions and VLC card | wikipedia=es:Museo del Patriarca | image=Quadres del museu del Patriarca de València.JPG | wikidata=Q5484867 | lastedit=2015-09-07 | content=Managed by the Seminary of Corpus Christi, this museum has a small collection of paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries, with special highlights including works by Juan de Juanes, El Greco, and early Flemish masters. The collection can only be viewed with a tour, offered in a number of European languages; to be sure there is a tour in your language it is best to reserve ahead, either by phone or [http://patriarcavalencia.es/contatti/?lang=en online]. }} * {{see | name=MuVIM | alt=Museu Valencià de la Il·lustració i de la Modernitat / The Valencia Museum of the Enlightenment and Modernity | url=http://www.muvim.es/es | email=muvim@dival.es | address=Quevedo 10 y Guillem de Castro 8 | lat=39.46987 | long=-0.38115 | directions=bus 27 stop:Quevedo - MuVIM | phone=+34 963 883 730 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00 16:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-20:00 | price= | wikipedia=es:Museo Valenciano de la Ilustración y la Modernidad | image=Museu Valencià de la Il·lustració i de la Modernitat, València, País Valencià.JPG | wikidata=Q7883975 | lastedit=2025-03-13 | content=The museum is devoted to civics and culture, with special exhibits focused on such topics as graphic design, photography, and cinema. The building and garden were designed by Valencian architect Guillermo Vázquez Consuegra. }} * {{see | name=Bombas Gens Centre d'Art | alt= | url=http://www.bombasgens.com/en/ | email=info@bombasgens.com | address=Avinguda Burjassot, 54-56 | lat=39.48553 | long=-0.38504 | directions=bus 94 & 28 stop: Burjassot - Centre Cultural Bombas Gens | phone=+34 963 463 856 | tollfree= | hours=W 16:00-20:00, Th-Sa 11:00-14:00 16:00-20:00, Su 11:00-15:00 | price=€9.5-€14.5 adults, €9.5-€11 concessions | wikipedia=es:Bombas Gens | image=Fàbrica de Bombes Gens, avinguda de Burjassot, València.JPG | wikidata=Q16911704 | lastedit=2018-02-17 | content=This former factory from the 1930s has been transformed into an exhibition space for Spanish contemporary art, with a special focus on photography. The building has an interesting history, as it was used to make industrial pumps, and later during the Spanish Civil War was used by the Republicans as an air raid shelter and to assemble armaments. }} * {{see | name=Casa-Museu Benlliure | alt=Casa-Museo Benlliure | url=http://www.visitvalencia.com/en/what-to-visit-valencia/museums/all-the-museums/museum/7465 | email=cmbenliure@valencia.es | address=Carrer de la Blanqueria, 23 | lat=39.48076 | long=-0.37894 | directions=El Carme | phone=+34 963 911 662 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Casa-museu Benlliure de València, estudi.JPG | hours=Tu-Sa 09:30-14:00 15:00-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 | price=€2 adults, €1 concessions, free on Su and holidays | lastedit=2015-11-17 | content=This was once home to two generations of the Benlliure family, headed by prominent Valencian artist José Benlliure. The early 20th-century residence has been maintained in three distinct sections, including the primary house with original furnishings and artworks, a lovely courtyard and garden, and a second building with a private study and more artworks. }} * {{see | name=Fundación Bancaja | alt=Fundació Bancaixa | url=https://www.fundacionbancaja.es/centro/centro-fundacion-bancaja/ | email= | address=Plaça de Tetuán, 23 | lat=39.47362 | long=-0.37018 | directions= | phone=+34 96 064 5840 | tollfree= | fax=+34 96 387 5578 | hours=Tu-Su and holidays 10:00-14:00 17:00-21:00, M 10:00-14:00 | price=See exhibition information for prices. | image=ComunidadValenciana Valencia8 tango7174.jpg | lastedit=2025-03-13 | content=The former 19th-century residence is a cultural centre which hosts excellent, well-curated temporary exhibits of contemporary art and photography, by Valencian, Spanish and international artists. }} * {{see | name=Centre del Carme | alt= | url=http://www.consorciomuseos.gva.es/ | email=consorcidemuseus@gva.es | address=Carrer del Museu, 2 | lat=39.47961 | long=-0.37909 | directions= | phone=+34 96 192 2640 | tollfree= | fax=+34 96 192 2641 | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-20:00 | price=€2 adults, €1 concessions, free on Su and holidays | wikipedia=es:Antiguo Convento del Carmen (Valencia) | image=Campanar del Carme vist des del claustre gòtic, València.JPG | wikidata=Q8200936 | lastedit=2025-03-13 | content=The former convent hosts rotating special exhibits showcasing local history, and historic and contemporary artists from Valencia and outside the region. }} * {{see | name=Fundación Chirivella Soriano | alt=Palau Joan de Valeriola | url=http://www.chirivellasoriano.org/ | email=fundacion@chirivellasoriano.org | address=Carrer de Valeriola, 13 | lat=39.47463 | long=-0.38048 | directions=Close to Merkat Central | phone=+34 96 338 1215 | tollfree= | fax=+34 96 338 1217 | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00 17:00-20:00, Su 10:00-14:00 | price=€4 adults, €2 concessions | image=Finestres del palau del Joan de Valeriola, València.JPG | lastedit=2025-05-30 | content=This well-preserved 14th-century Gothic palace houses a permanent collection of contemporary Spanish art, with rotating exhibits. }} * {{see | name=Centre Cultural La Nau | alt=Centre Cultural de la Universitat de València | url=http://www.uv.es/cultura/exposicions | email=cultura@uv.es | address=Carrer de la Universitat, 2 | lat=39.47194 | long=-0.37288 | directions={{station|Colón|3|5|7|9}}} | phone=+34 963 864 377 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00 16:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=La Nau | image=La Nau Universitat de València Claustre.JPG | wikidata=Q4985226 | lastedit=2025-05-25 | content=Built in 1498, this was once the library and main building for the University of Valencia. Today it is used by the university primarily as a venue for photography and art exhibits, and for classical music concerts. }} * {{see | name=Galería del Tossal | alt= | url=https://www.visitvalencia.com/en/what-to-do-valencia/valencian-culture/museum-in-valencia/tossal-gallery | email= | address=Plaça del Tossal, s/n | lat=39.47628 | long=-0.38011 | directions=entrance in an above-ground glass structure in the middle of the square | phone=+34 963 981 803 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Arcs que sostenien la volta que cobria la séquia, muralles de València.JPG | hours=Tu-Sa 16:00-19:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00 | price=€2 adults, €1 concessions, free children under 12; free on Su and holidays | lastedit=2025-05-29 | content=This unique underground gallery has been designed around the remains of a city wall from the Moorish period, complete with arches. The gallery is a venue for temporary exhibits of Spanish and international contemporary art. }} ===Parks and gardens=== [[File:Parque Gulliver 2007 - puroticorico.jpg|thumb|Parc Gulliver]] [[File:Jardin Monforte7.jpg|thumb|Jardí de Montfort]] [[File:Ringtailed lemur 12 - Bioparc- Valencia, Spain.JPG|thumb|Walk-in lemur exhibit at Bioparc Valencia]] * {{see | name=Jardí del Túria | alt=Jardines del Turia / Turia Gardens | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daylight hours | price=Free | wikipedia=es:Jardín del Turia | wikidata=Q2713406 | lastedit=2015-07-31 | content=After catastrophic flooding in 1957, the Turia River was diverted to the south of the city, and the former river bed was converted into a 7-km-long elongated park which spans many neighborhoods, ending at the City of Arts and Sciences. The park encompasses soccer and rugby fields, an artificial boating lake, athletics track, playgrounds, fountains, and cafés. Abundant bicycle paths make it an ideal place to get in a little exercise and sun. }} ** {{see | name=Parc Gulliver | alt=Parque Gulliver / Gulliver Park | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.46247 | long=-0.35959 | directions= | phone=+34 96 337 0204 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Sep-Jun: daily 10:00-20:00; Jul-Aug: daily 10:00-14:00, 17:00-21:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=es:Parque Gulliver | image=Parque Gulliver 2007 - puroticorico.jpg | wikidata=Q2345508 | lastedit=2015-07-31 | content=The centrepiece of this unusual playground is a 70-m-long sculpture of Gulliver (from the classic book ''Gulliver's Travels''), who has been tied to the ground. Visitors can climb on and slide down the giant figure, much as Lilliputians might have. The sculpture was designed by Valencian artist and illustrator Sento Llobell. }} ** {{see | name=Pont de la Trinitat | alt=Puente De La Trinidad / Trinitat Bridge | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.47901 | long=-0.37268 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=ca:Pont de la Trinitat | image=Escala del pont de la Trinitat de València.JPG | wikidata=Q11942327 | lastedit=2015-07-31 | content=The oldest bridge in the city, with the current structure dating to the early 16th century. The two 17th-century sculptures of Valencian saints used to be on another nearby medieval bridge, and were relocated to this bridge in the mid-20th century. }} ** {{see | name=Pont de l'Exposició | alt=Puente De La Exposición / Exhibition Bridge | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.47324 | long=-0.36574 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=es:Puente de la Exposición | image=Pont de l'exposició.jpg | wikidata=Q1983772 | lastedit=2015-08-10 | content=Designed by Santiago Calatrava and built between 1991 and 1995, the bridge resembles a comb, hence the nickname 'La Peineta'. }} * {{see | name=Jardí Botànic | alt=Jardín Botánico de Valencia / Botanic Garden of Valencia | url=http://www.jardibotanic.org/?idioma=_eng | email=botanic@uv.es | address=Carrer de Quart, 80 | lat=39.4755 | long=-0.3865 | directions=bus 60; 62; 63; 64 & 92 stop Ferran el Catòlic - Jardí Botànic {{rint|valencia|metro}}{{station|Túria|1|2}} | phone=+34 96 315 6800 | tollfree= | fax=+34 96 315 6826 | hours=Nov-Feb: 10:00-18:00, Mar Oct: 10:00-19:00, Apr Sep: 10:00-20:00, May-Aug: 10:00-21:00; open daily except 25 Dec, 1 Jan, and during inclement weather | price=€4 adults, €1.70 concessions, free children under 7 €14.50 10-visit ticket | wikipedia=Botanical Garden of Valencia | image=Celobert de l'entrada al jardí botànic de València.JPG | wikidata=Q9010986 | lastedit=2015-05-31 | content=Established in 1802 by the University of Valencia, this lovely garden maintains extensive collections of plants from a number of different habitats. Most of the greenhouses date from the latter half of the 19th century, while the modern research centre was completed in 2000. }} * {{see | name=Jardí de Montfort | alt=Jardín de Monforte / Monforte Garden | url=http://www.valencia.es/ayuntamiento/infociudad_accesible.nsf/vDocumentosWebListado/F4D9BBFB6A58BEDEC12572C20023FD3F?OpenDocument | email= | address=Plaça de la Legió Espanyola, s/n | lat=39.4775 | long=-0.3649 | directions=entrance on Carrer de Montfort | phone=+34 96 325 7881 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 21 Mar - 20 Sep: 10:30-20:00; 21 Sep - 20 Mar: 10:30-18:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=es:Jardín de Monforte | image=Jardin Monforte7.jpg | wikidata=Q2743957 | lastedit=2015-05-31 | content=This formal Neoclassical garden was designed in the mid-19th century by Valencian architect Don Monleón for the aristocrat Marqués de San Juan. It was declared a 'National Artistic Garden' and is now maintained by the city of Valencia, which opened it to the public in 1973. }} * {{see | name=Bioparc Valencia | alt= | url=http://www.bioparcvalencia.es/en/ | email=info@bioparcvalencia.es | address=Av Pío Baroja, 3 (main entrance) | lat=39.47802 | long=-0.40783 | directions=bus 98 & 99 stop:Pío Baroja - Bioparc, {{station|Nou d'Octubre|3|5|9}} | phone=+34 90 225 0340 | tollfree= | hours=Daily, hours vary by month and season: 10:00-18:00 in winter, 10:00-19:00/20:00 in spring/fall, 10:00-21:00 in summer; detailed hours available [http://www.bioparcvalencia.es/en/horarios-y-tarifas/horarios/ here] | price=€28.90-€31.90 adults, reduced prices for 4-12 & 65+, free children under 4. Book through website | wikipedia=Valencia Bioparc | image=Ringtailed lemur 12 - Bioparc- Valencia, Spain.JPG | wikidata=Q1954263 | lastedit=2025-03-13 | content=As far as zoos go, this is more animal-friendly than most. Focused exclusively on African fauna, the modern zoo has been thoughtfully designed to provide maximum space in natural settings for its residents. A special highlight is the walk-in lemur exhibit (no touching or feeding). }} * {{see | name=Jardín de Viveros | alt=Jardines del Real / Royal Gardens | url= | email= | address=San Pío, V, s/n | lat=39.48063 | long=-0.36769 | directions= | phone=+34 96 352 5478 x4304 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Summer: daily 07:30-21:30; winter: M-F 07:30-20:30, Sa Su 07:30-21:30 | price=Free | wikipedia=es:Jardines del Real | image=Arbre i banc, jardí de Vivers de València.JPG | wikidata=Q5926337 | lastedit=2018-01-14 | content=Established by the Moors in the 13th century as gardens for the royal palace (no longer standing), this pleasant and popular park is the second-largest park in Valencia, after the Turia gardens. The park includes a rose garden, sculpture garden, bicycle track, and aviary. During the summer various festivals are held here. }} ** {{see | name=Museu de Ciències Naturals | alt=Museo de Ciencias Naturales / Museum of Natural Sciences | url=https://www.valencia.es/-/infociudad-museo-de-ciencias-naturales | email=museociencias@valencia.es | address=Av General Elío, s/n | lat=39.47936 | long=-0.36902 | directions= | phone=+34 96 352 5478 x4313 | tollfree= | fax=+34 96 353 9956 | hours=Tu-Su and holidays 09:30-19:00 | price=€2 adults, €1 concessions; free admission on Su and holidays | wikipedia=es:Museo de Ciencias Naturales de Valencia | image=Al·losaure (Allosaurus fragilis), Museu de Ciències Naturals de València.JPG | wikidata=Q9047012 | lastedit=2025-05-14 | content=The museum is divided into several segments, covering Valencian contributions to the sciences, the ecology of the Valencian region, and of course paleontology with the requisite dinosaur skeletons. }} ** {{see | name=Palau Reial de València | alt=Palacio Real / Royal Palace | url= | email= | address=Av General Elío, s/n | lat=39.47874 | long=-0.36714 | directions= | phone=+34 96 146 1752 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free | wikipedia=Real Palace | image=Palau del Real de València, torre de la Reina.JPG | wikidata=Q9054408 | lastedit=2015-06-27 | content=Established by the Moors, then rebuilt by Christians, this building served as the royal Valencian residence until its demolition in 1810. It was forgotten and then rediscovered in 1986. The partially-excavated site is now surrounded by a fence with informative panels in Valencian, Spanish, and English. }} ===Neighbourhoods=== [[File:Viviendas Almenara - Iglesia Angeles - Antoni Joan 26.jpg|thumb|Protected house in Cabanyal]] [[File:Part superior de la casa jueva de València.JPG|thumb|''Casa Jueva'', a Valencian Modernist residential building in Russafa]] * {{see | name=El Carme | alt=El Carmen | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=es:El Carmen (Valencia) | wikidata=Q5398029 | lastedit=2017-08-10 | content=In the old centre, it is the perfect place for a stroll where you can witness the transition from a forgotten area to an up-and-coming diverse neighbourhood. Barri del Carme has many outdoor cafes and trendy shops. There is an interesting mix of people, from lifetime residents, to alternative types, hippies, gays and lesbians, and other assorted people. The neighbourhood swells at night with revelers, but please respect the neighbours who live there. }} * {{see | name=El Cabanyal | alt=Cabañal | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=along the beach | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=El Cabanyal | wikidata=Q5015234 | lastedit=2017-08-10 | content=Established in the 13th century as a fishing village, in the 19th century the town became known as a beach getaway before being annexed by Valencia in 1897. Along with easy access to the beach, it has many charming historic tiled buildings and great bars and restaurants, and is the setting of the annual ''Semana Santa Marinera'' (described below under 'Do'). For many years the area directly east of the Valencia-Cabanyal train station was badly neglected, and squatters and other nefarious types moved in. Although the related political and legal disputes have since been resolved, for the near future this specific area is still best avoided at night. }} * {{see | name=Russafa | alt=Ruzafa | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=S of the centre | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=es:Ruzafa | wikidata=Q9071485 | lastedit=2017-08-10 | content=Ruzafa (from Arabic رصافة – ''rusafa'', or 'garden') was established in the 9th century as a Moorish pleasure garden, and evolved into a farming community. It was independent until 1877, when it was annexed by the city. Today the barrio is known for its cultural diversity, hipster shops and cafés, great restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. }} * {{see | name=Benimaclet | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=N of the centre | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Benimaclet | wikidata=Q536707 | lastedit=2017-08-11 | content= Benimaclet (from Arabic بني مخلد – ''bani mahlad'', or 'sons of Majlad') began as an Arabic farmstead, and was an independent farming community until 1878. Preserved are its central square and parish church, and charming pedestrian alleys. Due to its proximity to the University of Valencia, it is known for its large student population, many immigrant shops, and good bars and restaurants. }} ===Other=== [[File:Valencia Water Court.JPG|thumb|Tribunal de les Aigües]] [[File:Dama de Elche Avenida Cortes Valencianas Valencia.jpg|thumb|La Dama Ibérica]] * {{see | name=Tribunal de les Aigües | alt=Tribunal de las Aguas / Water Tribunal | url=http://www.tribunaldelasaguas.org/en/ | email= | address=In front of the cathedral's Puerta de los Apóstoles | lat=39.47606 | long=-0.37509 | directions=SE corner of the Plaça de la Verge | phone=+34 96 391 4445 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Every Thursday at noon; it is best to get here no later than 11:30 to secure a good spot | price=Free | wikipedia=Water Tribunal of the plain of Valencia | image=The Tribunal de las Aguas of Valencia.jpg | wikidata=Q2371015 | lastedit=2017-12-06 | content=The ''horta'' (Spanish: ''huerta''), the fertile region surrounding Valencia, has relied on artificial irrigation since antiquity. The tribunal was developed to mediate disputes between farmers, and is believed to date back to Roman times; it has operated in its current form since the Moorish era. The court consists of nine representatives who meet in public and issue judgments on water rights and usage. Proceedings are conducted in Valencian and verdicts are issued orally. Although today the court is largely ceremonial, verdicts are considered legally binding by the highest court in Madrid and by the EU. In 2009 it was listed by [[UNESCO]] as an 'intangible cultural heritage'. }} * {{see | name=Cementerio General de Valencia | alt=Valencia General Cemetery | url=http://www.valencia.es/ayuntamiento/infociudad_accesible.nsf/vDocumentosWebListado/DA8743D6124108D4C12572C20023DA48? | email= | address=Carrer de Sant Doménec de Guzmán, 27 | lat=39.44751 | long=-0.39644 | directions= | phone=+34 963 773 061 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-18:00, Su and holidays 09:00-14:00; 23 Oct - 01 Nov: daily 09:00-18:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=es:Cementerio de Valencia | image=Cementeri General de València, panteons.JPG | wikidata=Q16302532 | lastedit=2018-01-14 | content=In use since 1807, the cemetery has some interesting mausoleums and funerary sculpture and is the final resting place for a number of notable Valencians, including members of the artistic Benlliure family, painter Joaquín Sorolla, and writer Vicente Blasco Ibáñez. For visitors with a smartphone there is a helpful app (iOS and Android; Spanish and Valencian only) which describes walking routes and gives grave locations. }} * {{see | name=Mirador Valencia | alt=El Mirador del Ateneo Mercantil / Ateneo Viewpoint | url=http://www.valenciasviewpoint.com/ | email=mirador@ateneovalencia.es | address=Plaça de l'Ajuntament, 18 | lat=39.47090 | long=-0.37621 | directions=entrance between Café Rialto and Café & Tapas | phone=+34 963 520 488 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00-20:30; last lift to the top at 20:00 | price=€3 adults; €2.5 seniors, disabled, children 11-16; free children under 10 | image=Plaça de l'Ajuntament de València, Ateneu Mercantil i el Rialto.jpg | lastedit=2017-10-03 | content=The viewpoint is on the rooftop of a private social club, and offers excellent 360° panoramic views of the city. }} * {{see | name=Street art | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-10 | content= Valencia has become a magnet for street artists both homegrown and those hailing from abroad, many of them internationally-renowned. Works range in size from smaller stencils to giant murals, with the greatest concentration in el Carmen (Carme). There are also clusters of great art in Ruzafa, Benimaclet, Cabanyal, and other neighbourhoods. }} * {{see | name=La Dama Ibérica | alt= | url= | email= | address=intersection of Carrer de la Safor and Avinguda de las Cortes Valencianas | lat=39.49026 | long=-0.39932 | directions=Campanar | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=sv:La Dama Ibérica | image=Dama de Elche Avenida Cortes Valencianas Valencia.jpg | wikidata=Q16745578 | lastedit=2018-01-14 | content=The monumental sculpture dominating the roundabout was designed by internationally-renowned Valencian artist Manolo Valdés and completed in 2007. It was inspired by the Iberian sculpture ''Dama de Elche'' ('Lady of Elche'), which was discovered in [[Elche]] and now resides in Madrid's [[Madrid/Salamanca#See|National Archaeological Museum]]. Valdés's version is an 18-m-high steel structure covered with 22,000 miniature replicas of the modern version, made of cobalt-blue ceramic by fellow Valencian artist Manuel Martin. }} ==Do== ===Falles=== [[File:La Cremà 2016.jpg|thumb|upright|''La Cremà'' (The Burning)]] {{infobox|Things to do during Falles|* Go around and see the various fallas, but especially the ''Secció Especial''. * Pay to enter one of the bigger fallas to get a closer look at the individual ninots. * See ''la mascletà'' and ''la nit de foc''. * See one of the various parades, especially the ofrenda, and see the ''Virgen de los Desamparados''. [[File:Bunyol de carabassa.jpg|thumb|100px|Bunyol de carabassa]] * Sample ''bunyols'' (Spanish: ''buñuelos''), traditional Valencian ‘donuts’, at one of the many stands on the street. They are only available during the Falles season, and come in several varieties, including chocolate and ''carabassa'' (Spanish: ''calabaza'', or pumpkin). * Dance all night long at one of the ''verbenas'' (temporary bars and nightclubs) set up on the street. }} {{infobox|Things to be aware of|* Most streets in the city centre are closed to everything except pedestrian traffic, and buses running through the centre will be diverted from their usual route. * Most restaurants are very crowded and some are not open. There are usually very long waits and slow service and you should plan for this in your schedule. * Hotels should be booked well in advance. * Many people throw firecrackers near pedestrians and it is possible to be burnt or injured. * Some of the principal fallas, like ''Nou Campanar'', are well outside the city centre and are quite far by foot – it is much easier to take the metro or a bus. }} One of Spain’s most spectacular fire festivals, '''Falles''' (Spanish: ''Fallas'') can be best characterised as a fire-fireworks-gunpowder street party extravaganza. The festival draws up to two million visitors annually, and is listed as a [[UNESCO]] ‘intangible cultural heritage’. Its origins date to the Middle Ages when the city’s carpenters burned piles of scraps in the streets and plazas near their workshops on 19 March, the eve of the day of ''San Josep'' (Spanish: ''San José'', or ''St. Joseph''). In the 18th century, it became customary to fashion these piles of junk with papier mache into human figures and sculptures, called ''ninots'' (Valencian for 'dolls'), which were assembled to form larger ''fallas''. Eventually these fallas began to take on a satirical nature. Around 1870, Falles and Carnival were banned. In response to this, a popular movement arose to revive and preserve these traditions, resulting in a competition in 1885 for the best and most artistic falla. This prompted the development of ''casal fallers'', neighbourhood associations which work year-round raising money and designing their fallas. Today there are about 400 casal fallers which each design an adult falla (''falla mayor''), and a smaller children’s falla (''falla infantil''); more than 400 of these fallas are burned on public streets every year. Many fallas reach 25-30 m in height – the best of these are in a special category ''Secció Especial'' (Spanish: ''Sección Especiál'') and compete for the top prize, awarded annually by the City Council. A secondary feature of Falles are daily fireworks events, including gunpowder demonstrations (''mascletàs'') and large nightly fireworks displays (''castillos del fuego''). Along with these displays, people set off fireworks all day in the streets, beginning early in the morning and continuing throughout the day, making the city seem like a war zone and making it very difficult to catch any sleep. ====Key events and dates==== [[File:Almirante Cadarso Conde Altea 2016 (1).jpg|thumb|Falla de ''Secció Especial'', surrounded by ''ninots'']] [[File:Lightning Falla Azorin 2010.jpg|thumb|Illuminated street in Ruzafa]] [[File:Fallas2017 Ofrena 10.jpg|thumb|''L'Ofrena'' (The Offering)]] * {{listing | type=around | name=La Despertà | alt=the 'wake-up call' | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Last Sunday of February | price= | lastedit=2018-03-16 | content=Beginning at 07:30, brass bands parade down Carrer de la Pau and Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir to the Plaça de l'Ajuntament, followed by falleros and falleras throwing firecrackers. At noon more bands perform at the central square, and the season's first ''mascletà'' takes place at 14:00. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Cridà | alt=the 'call' | url= | email= | address=Torres de Serrano | lat=39.47936 | long=-0.37591 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Last Sunday of February | price= | wikipedia=ca:Crida (Falles de València) | wikidata=Q11916079 | lastedit=2018-03-16 | content=Crowds gather along bridges and the Túria river bed to hear the ''fallera mayor'' (principal fallera) announce the beginning of the Falles season at 20:00. Fireworks conclude the event. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Mascletà | alt= | url= | email= | address=Plaça de l'Ajuntament | lat=39.46977 | long=-0.37634 | directions=Plaza de la Ayuntamiento | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=2-19 March: 14:00 | price= | wikipedia=Mascletà | image=Mascletà at Valencia, Spain, 2010 (DSC7155).jpg | wikidata=Q3393318 | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=This is 120 kg of gunpowder translated into a multi-sensory ‘symphony of noise’, and must be experienced to be understood, as it includes not just the noise but also the intense smell of gunpowder as well as the vibrations which can be felt through the entire body. The event is very popular and you should arrive at least an hour in advance. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Batalla de las Luces | alt=Las Calles Iluminadas / Battle of the Lights | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Ruzafa | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11-18 March | price= | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=Casal fallers around the city decorate their streets with expensive street lighting displays, the most elaborate of which compete annually for the top prize. Three of the top contenders every year are in the Ruzafa district, with the fourth in La Roqueta. }} ** {{listing | type=around | name=Falla Cuba-Literat Azorín | alt= | url= | email= | address=intersection of Carrer de Cuba with Carrer del Literat Azorín | lat=39.45984 | long=-0.37553 | directions=Ruzafa | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Calle mejor iluminada 2011.jpg | lastedit=2016-08-16 | content= }} ** {{listing | type=around | name=Falla Sueca-Literat Azorín | alt= | url= | email= | address=intersection of Carrer del Literat Azorín with Carrer de Sueca | lat=39.46035 | long=-0.37434 | directions=Ruzafa | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Lightning Falla Azorin 2010.jpg | lastedit=2016-08-16 | content= }} ** {{listing | type=around | name=Falla Cuba-Puerto Rico | alt= | url= | email= | address=intersection of Carrer de Cuba with Carrer de Puerto Rico | lat=39.46107 | long=-0.37639 | directions=Ruzafa | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Muntatge llums Cuba P Rico 2014 - 3.jpeg | lastedit=2016-08-16 | content= }} ** {{listing | type=around | name=Falla Convento Jerusalén-Matemático Marzal | alt= | url= | email= | address=intersection of Carrer del Convent de Jerusalem with Carrer del Matemàtic Marzal | lat=39.46645 | long=-0.37952 | directions=La Roqueta | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | image=Iluminación Convento Jerusalén (2345523659) (2).jpg | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-08-16 | content= }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Exposición del Ninot | alt=Ninot exhibit | url= | email= | address=Sala Arquerías, Museo Príncipe Felipe | lat=39.45616 | long=-0.35253 | directions=City of Arts and Sciences; venues can change | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=1-14 March | price=€3 adults, €1.50 children and seniors | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=The current year's ninots are placed on display, with visitors voting for their favourite ninot. The winning ninot is spared the flames of the Cremà and added to the permanent collection of the Museu Faller de València (listed below). }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Cavalcada del Ninot | alt=Ninot Parade | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=15 March | price= | wikipedia=ca:Cavalcada del Ninot | wikidata=Q21045476 | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=The ninots previously exhibited are now paraded through the streets, before being included in the falla monuments. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Plantà | alt=Planting | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=15-16 March | price= | wikipedia=Plantà | wikidata=Q3393255 | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=The 15th marks the start of the assembling the elaborate 'fallas', which have been laboured over during the previous year. Construction must be completed by 08:00 on 16 March, or the falla will be disqualified for the competition. Tourist information offices have free maps available showing locations of the ''Selección Especiál'' fallas. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=L'Ofrena | alt=La Ofrenda / The Offering | url= | email= | address=Plaça de la Virgen | lat=39.47623 | long=-0.37529 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=17-18 March | price= | wikipedia=ca:Ofrena de Flors | image=Fallas2016 Plaza Virgen 14.jpg | wikidata=Q11939275 | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=The falleros and falleras from each 'casal faller' bring flowers in offering and used to decorate the mantle of an enormous effigy of the ''Virgen de los Desamparados'' in the Plaça de la Virgen. Participants are dressed in traditional clothing, and the processions follow two main routes, each terminating at the cathedral: one proceeds westward down ''Carrer de de Pau / Calle de la Paz'', and the other northward up ''Carrer de Sant Vincent Màrtir / Calle San Vicente''. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Els Castells | alt=fireworks displays | url= | email= | address= Passeig de l'Albereda | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=15-18 March | price= | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=A nightly fireworks display between midnight and 01:30, with each night more impressive than the previous one, until culminating in the final display on the 18th, which is known as ''La Nit del Foc'' (the Night of Fire). This is also very crowded and you should arrive early to see it. The best location to view this is from pedestrian bridges crossing the Turía Park riverbed, or even better, from below the Palacio de la Musica. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Cavalcada del Foc | alt=Cabalgata del Fuego / Fire Parade | url= | email= | address=Route: Carrer de Russafa, Carrer de Colón, Porta de la Mar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=19 March, 19:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-04-06 | content=A parade featuring all types of spectacles involving fire. This parade may be canceled in inclement weather. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=La Cremà | alt=The Burning | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=19 March: 22:00-01:00 | price= | wikipedia=Cremà | wikidata=Q3393307 | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=At the end of a week displaying the 'fallas' are burnt. The fallas infantiles are burned at 22:00, the fallas mayores are burned anytime between midnight and 01:00, and the falla at the Plaça Ayuntamiento is burned last at 01:00. The most impressive to see are the fallas in the Secció Especial, because these are the largest and most dramatic when they burn. These tend to be very crowded and one should arrive early, preferably an hour in advance. A good strategy is to visit a selection of fallas beforehand, and then to choose one to watch burn. }} ====Falles museums==== If you can't be in Valencia at the time of the festival, you can at least get an idea of what it's all about by visiting one or both the following museums. * {{see | name=Museu Faller de València | alt=Museo Fallero / Falles Museum | url= | email=museufaller@valencia.es | address=Plaça Monteolivete, 4 | lat=39.45877 | long=-0.35924 | directions=Montolivete | phone=+34 96 352 5478 x4625 | tollfree= | fax=+34 96 394 1934 | hours=M-Sa 09:30-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 | price=€2 (adults), €1 (concessions), free on Su and public holidays | wikipedia=es:Museo Fallero | image=Fallas2017 18 Museo Fallero.jpg | wikidata=Q27924428 | lastedit=2015-08-10 | content=Since 1934 ''ninots'' (papier-mâché figures) voted as the best of the year have been spared the final flames of the Falles festival. Along with photos and posters, these figures are showcased in a building which has served as a lepers' hospital, barracks, and prison. }} * {{see | name=Museu de l'Artista Faller de València | alt=Museo del Gremio de Artistas Falleros / Museum of the Guild of Falles Artists | url=http://www.gremiodeartistasfalleros.es/Museo | email=gremio@gremiodeartistasfalleros.es | address=Avda San José Artesano, 17 | lat=39.50007 | long=-0.39250 | directions=Benicalap | phone=+34 963 479 623 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-14:00 16:00-19:00, Sa 10:00-14:00; closed in Aug | price=€3 adults; €2.50 students; €2 seniors, disabled, children under 12 | lastedit=2016-08-16 | content= }} ===Other festivals=== [[File:Semana Santa Marinera 2016.jpg|thumb|Street procession during Semana Santa Marinera]] [[File:2007 Procesion (56).JPG|thumb|Festivitat Verge dels Desemparats]] [[File:La Moma i els Momos 2.jpg|thumb|La Moma i els Momos during Corpus Christi]] * {{listing | name=Semana Santa Marinera | alt=Setmana Santa Marinera / Marinera Holy Week | url=http://www.semanasantamarinera.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Cabanyal | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Week before Easter Sunday | price= | wikipedia=es:Semana Santa Marinera | wikidata=Q9075846 | lastedit=2017-04-14 | content=As elsewhere in Spain, Valencia celebrates Holy Week with street processions of penitents, organised into fraternities. Although not as well known as the more elaborate processions in [[Andalusia]] and [[Castile and Leon]], Valencia's own unique traditions date back to the 15th century and are centred in the neighbourhood of Cabanyal, formerly an independent fishing village. Especially noteworthy are the Good Friday morning processions: two separate fraternities carry a crucifixion effigy to the beach, say a prayer for those who have lost their lives at sea, and place a laurel wreath in the ocean. This practice is unique in Spain and has been designated a 'Fiesta of National Touristic Interest' by the government.<br />The processions, routes, and times may vary from year to year. The Valencia edition of [http://www.abc.es/espana/comunidad-valenciana/valencia/valencia/ ABC] (in Spanish) publishes detailed routes and schedules of each day's events. }} ** {{see | name=Museo de la Semana Santa Marinera | alt=Semana Santa Museum | url=http://www.semanasantamarinera.org/index.php/museo | email=secgral@jmssm.org | address=Carrer del Rosari, 1 | lat=39.46316 | long=-0.33193 | directions=Port | phone=+34 963 240 745 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00 16:30-20:30, Su and holidays 10:00-15:00 | price=Free | wikipedia=es:Museo de la Semana Santa Marinera | wikidata=Q6034296 | lastedit=2016-08-22 | content=This small museum has exhibits explaining the Semana Santa Marinera traditions with costumes, documents, and photographs. }} * {{listing | type=around | name=Festival Internacional del Viento | alt=International Kite Festival | url=http://festivaldelviento.org/Inicio.html {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Platja de Malvarrosa | lat=39.4759 | long=-0.3236 | directions=Cabanyal | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=April | price=Free | image=Festival Internacional del Viento 2016.jpg | lastedit=2016-09-12 | content=Held annually since 1997, the two-day event includes exhibits, kite-making demonstrations, and competitions. }} * {{do | name=Festivitat Verge dels Desemparats | alt=Festividad de la Virgen de los Desamparados, Festival of Our Lady of the Forsaken | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Second Sunday of May | price= | wikipedia=+es:Festividad de la Virgen de los Desamparados | wikidata=Q5861388 | lastedit=2016-08-22 | content=The day is devoted to celebrating the Virgen de los Desamparados, Valencia's patron saint. After a formal mass at 08:00 in the Plaça de la Virgen, a ceremonial procession transfers the effigy of the Virgin from the royal chapel to the cathedral next door. A second traditional procession begins at 18:30, in which the effigy follows a more circuitous route around the city centre, accompanied by showers of flower petals and dancing in the streets. This procession proceeds along Carrer dels Cavallers, Carrer de la Bosseria, Plaça del Mercat, Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir, Plaça de la Reina, and Carrer de les Avellanes before finally returning to the cathedral at Plaça de l'Almoina. }} * {{do | name=Festa del Corpus Christi | alt=Fiesta de Corpus Christi | url=http://www.corpusvalenciaamics.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=60 days after Easter, usually late May or early June | price=Free | wikipedia=es:Fiesta del Corpus Christi de Valencia | wikidata=Q6087159 | lastedit=2017-06-26 | content=The city has been celebrating Corpus Christi since the late 13th century, and holding feast day processions since 1355. The main procession, known as the ''Cavalcada del Convit'' (Spanish: ''Cabalgata del Convite'') begins at 12:00 and follows an itinerary established in the 18th century, which begins at Carrer de la Batlia, heads south along the western side of the cathedral to the Plaça de la Reina, and then up Carrer d'Avellanes and finally terminates at Plaça de l'Almoina. The parade features several medieval dances and rituals unique to Valencia, the most famous of which is ''La Moma i els Momos'', in which a man in white dress and white-veiled face is surrounded by seven men clothed and veiled in black; the dance represents the fight of virtue against the seven deadly sins. Also noteworthy are the dances of the ''Nanos'' (dwarves) and ''Gegants'' (giants), in which dancers wear oversized heads and costumes respectively, and ''La Poalà'', in which participants at the end of the route are doused with buckets of water.<br />16:30 marks the start of a second procession, the ''Pas de les Roques'' (Spanish: ''Paso de las Rocas'', or Parade of Carriages), the highlight of which are the antique horse-drawn carriages. This parade follows a more circuitous route along Carrer dels Cavallers, Carrer de la Bosseria, Plaça del Mercat, Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir, Plaça de la Reina, and Carrer de les Avellanes before finally returning to the cathedral at Plaça de l'Almoina. A third procession begins at 17:30, with the same dancers featured in the 12:00 parade, and following the route of the carriage parade. The final procession, the ''Solemne Processó'' (Spanish: ''Solemne Procesión'') begins at 19:00, with participants from parishes and guilds followed by biblical characters and finally by the monstrance. }} ** {{see | name=Casa de les Roques | alt=Casa de las Rocas / Museo del Corpus | url=http://www.valencia.es/ayuntamiento/Infociudad_accesible.nsf/vDocumentosWebListado/3A693428E5AAA5B0C12572C20023FE0F?OpenDocument&bdOrigen=ayuntamiento/laciudad.nsf | email= | address=Carrer de les Roques, 3 | lat=39.47913 | long=-0.37669 | directions= | phone=+34 963 153 156 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 09:30-14:00 15:00-19:00, Su and holidays 09:30-15:00 | price= | wikipedia=es:Casa de las Rocas | image=Roques guardades a la casa de les Roques, València.JPG | wikidata=Q11680581 | lastedit=2016-09-06 | content=The horse-drawn carriages used in the Corpus Christi parades, known as ''roques'' (Spanish: rocas, or 'rocks'), have been stored in this building since the mid-15th century. Eleven carriages are on display, the oldest of which was built between 1373 and 1392. Other items exhibited are costumes and historic documents, as well as a 25-minute video about the processions (in Spanish). }} [[File:Gran Fira Valencia 2016 Correfoc 04.jpg|thumb|Correfoc during the Fira de Juliol]] [[File:Batalla de Flors 2015.jpg|thumb|Batalla de Flors, Fira de Juliol]] * {{listing | name=Fira de Juliol | alt=Feria de Julio / July Festival | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=1-31 July | price= | wikipedia=es:Feria de Julio de Valencia | wikidata=Q12175110 | lastedit=2016-08-22 | content=Held annually since 1871, this month-long festival includes daily free and ticketed music and dance performances in parks and plazas, open-air cinema, sporting events, and fairground rides. Every Saturday at midnight there are large fireworks (locations vary). The mid-month ''Gran nit de juliol'', always on a Saturday, features street parades and free outdoor concerts, and most museums remain open until midnight or 02:00. The tourist office can offer a detailed schedule of events. }} ** {{do | name=Els Focs de la Fira | alt=Correfoc: literally 'fire-running' | url= | email= | address=last Friday before the Battala de Flors; parade begins at 23:00 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-30 | content=This energetic festival began in medieval Catalonia and is celebrated throughout the Catalán/Valencian-speaking region. Participants dress as devils with pitchforks and dance through the streets to drums, setting off fireworks and interacting with spectators. The route varies from year to year, but generally is in the area near the North Train Station and the Porta de la Mar. The many flying sparks can burn holes in clothing, so it's a good idea to wear older clothes or not get too close to the action. }} ** {{listing | type=around | name=Batalla de Flors | alt=Battala de las Flores / Battle of the Flowers | url= | email= | address=Passeig de l'Albereda | lat=39.47520 | long=-0.36604 | directions=Paseo de la Alameda | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Last Sunday of July: parade begins at 20:00, battle begins at 21:00 | price=€30 (ringside seats purchased in advance), free (general audience) | wikipedia=es:Batalla de Flores (Valencia) | image=Batalla de Flors 2015.jpg | wikidata=Q25406754 | lastedit=2017-07-30 | content=The highlight of the July festival, the 'Battle of the Flowers' was first held in 1891. This unusual event begins with a parade of horse-drawn floats, on which are perched falleras in traditional dress. The floats circle around a closed off section of the avenue four times, and prizes are awarded for the most beautiful float. Then the fun begins: mountains of softball-sized marigolds have been distributed around the ring, and seated audience members proceed to pelt the falleras with the flowers, who defend themselves with tennis rackets and hurl flowers back into the audience. After the parade, the general audience is allowed into the ring, and a general melee begins. }} [[File:Sala daurada gran - palau de la Generalitat Valenciana.JPG|thumb|Interior of the Palau de la Generalitat, open to the public during Nou d’Octubre]] * {{listing | type=do | name=Nou d’Octubre | alt=Diada Nacional del País Valencià / Valencian Community National Day | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=1-9 October | price= | wikipedia=es:Día de la Comunidad Valenciana | wikidata=Q7799249 | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=This annual public holiday has been celebrated since 1338 and commemorates the date in 1238 when King James I of Aragón entered the city, freeing it from Moorish rule. In the week leading up to the 9th there are free concerts and parades around town, including a ''correfoc'' ('fire-running') which takes place on the preceding Saturday evening in the El Carme district. During this same weekend nine governmental palaces which are ordinarily closed to the public are opened for general visitation (Sa and Su 10:00-20:00, free admission). Of these the 15th-century Gothic {{marker|type=see|name=Palau de la Generalitat|lat=39.47665|long=-0.37631|image=Sala daurada gran - palau de la Generalitat Valenciana.JPG}} (''Palacio de la Generalidad / Palace of the General Assembly'') is the most remarkable, and is well worth the long queue to see the well-preserved interior.<br />Formal festivities commence at midnight on 8 October with a fireworks display from the Túria River park by the Pont de l'Exposició (by Alameda metro station). At noon on the following day a formal procession carries the Valencian flag from the Ayuntamiento (City Hall) to the {{marker|type=see|name=Jardí del Parterre|lat=39.47191|long=-0.37057|image=València, jardí del Parterre.JPG}} (''Parque del Parterre / Parterre Park''), where a wreath is laid before the equestrian statue of King James.<br />The highlight of the 9th itself is the parade of '''Moros i Cristians''' (Spanish: ''Moros y Cristianos''), which commences at {{marker|type=around|name=Plaça d'Alfons el Magnànim|lat=39.47269|long=-0.37008}} and proceeds down Carrer de la Pau and Carrer de Sant Vicent, finally terminating at Plaça de l’Ajuntament. The parade starts at 18:30 but it is best to find a spot about a half-hour before the parade begins.<br />The 9th of October is also the day of St. Dionysius, which for Valencians is similar to Valentine's Day. In a tradition dating to the 18th century, it is customary for men to give their sweethearts a ''mocadorà'' – a small bundle of marzipan treats shaped like fruits and wrapped in a handkerchief. Beginning a week before the 9th, these can be purchased at pastry shops and even some supermarkets. }} ===Performing arts=== [[File:Palau de la Música de València i font.JPG|thumb|Palau de la Música]] * {{do | name=Palau de la Música | alt= | url=https://www.palaumusica.cat/en | email=taquilles@palaumusica.cat | address=Passeig de l'Albereda, 30 | lat=39.46614 | long=-0.36044 | directions=Mestalla | phone=+34 963 375 020 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 370 988 | hours=10:30-13:30, 17:30-21:00 (ticket office); tickets can also be purchased [http://www.entradas.com/tickets.html?affiliate=EES&doc=venuePage&fun=venue&action=overview&venueGroupId=18884 online] | price= | wikipedia=Palau de la Música de València | image=Palau de la Música de València i font.JPG | wikidata=Q9054601 | lastedit=2015-11-21 | content=Designed by José María de Paredes and opened in 1987, this is considered to be one of Europe's most important concert halls. The building is marked by an enormous glass greenhouse-like structure which also serves as the main entrance. In addition to classical music, jazz concerts are also performed here. }} * {{do | name=Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia | alt= | url=http://www.lesarts.com/en/ | email=abonos@lesearts.com | address= | lat=39.4581 | long=-0.3559 | directions=City of Arts and Sciences | phone=+34 90 220 2383, +34 96 197 5900 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Ticket office: M W F 10:00-14:30, opens again 3 hrs prior to performance; T Th 10:00-19:00 or until performance; Sa Su and holidays opens 2 hrs prior to performance | price= | wikipedia=Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia | image=Ciudad de las Artes y de las Ciencias.JPG | wikidata=Q747342 | lastedit=2016-06-29 | content=This opera/concert house has four halls and covers an area of 37,000m². A schedule of events can be found [http://www.lesarts.com/agenda/ here]. }} * {{do | name=Teatro Principal | alt= | url=http://teatres.gva.es/playhouse/playhouse_1/teatro-principal | email= | address=Carrer de les Barques, 15 | lat=39.47081 | long=-0.37447 | directions= | phone=+34 963 539 260 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Box office: Tu-F 11:00-13:00 17:00-20:00, Sa and holidays 17:00-20:00 | price= | wikipedia=es:Teatro Principal (Valencia) | image=Teatre Principal de València, columnes de la façana.JPG | wikidata=Q3329707 | lastedit=2016-10-02 | content=Valencia's oldest theatre was opened 1832 and has a Rococo interior. It is the venue for a varied program of plays and musicals (in Spanish), modern dance, ballet, and concerts. }} * {{do | name=Teatre Olympia | alt=Teatro Olympia / Olympia Theatre | url=http://www.teatro-olympia.com/index.php | email= | address=Carrer de Sant Vicent Màrtir, 44 | lat=39.47086 | long=-0.37800 | directions= | phone=+34 963 517 315 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Box office: daily 17:00-21:00, ½ hr before performance | price= | wikipedia=es:Edificio Olympia | image=Teatre Olympia de València, interior.jpg | wikidata=Q8772032 | lastedit=2017-11-16 | content=Built in 1915 by Valencian architect Vicente Rodríguez Martín, the theatre is a venue for plays, musicals, and flamenco performances. Tickets can be purchased online. }} * {{do | name=Teatre Talia | alt=Teatro Talía / Talía Theatre | url=http://www.teatretalia.es/ | email= | address=Carrer dels Cavallers, 31 | lat=39.47653 | long=-0.37806 | directions=Carmen | phone=+34 963 912 920 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Box office: Tu-F 18:00-21:00, Sa Su 2 hr before every show | price= | wikipedia=es:Teatro Talía (Valencia) | image=Pati de butaques del teatre Talia de València.jpg | wikidata=Q11951027 | lastedit=2017-11-16 | content=The historic theatre was built in 1928 and mostly showcases local plays and actors, but is also occasionally a venue for dance and especially flamenco performances. Tickets can be purchased online. }} * {{do | name=Café del Duende | alt= | url=http://cafedelduende.com/en/ | email=info@larambleta.com | address=Carrer del Túria, 62 | lat=39.47831 | long=-0.38533 | directions=Extramuros | phone=+34 630 455 289 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Th 22:00-02:30, F Sa 22:00-03:30, Su 17:00-23:00 | price=€10 (includes drink) | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=This café is an intimate venue for flamenco performances, with well-known dancers and musicians hailing not only from Valencia but from across Spain. On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays performances begin at 23:00 and last for one hour; on Sunday they begin at 20:00. As shows are very popular, it is advisable to get there at least an hour before the show in order to secure a seat – getting to the door 15 minutes before opening is even better. }} * {{do | name=Espai Rambleta | alt= | url=http://es.larambleta.com/ | email=info@larambleta.com | address=Bulevar Sur, esq. Carrer Pío IX | lat=39.44713 | long=-0.39274 | directions=Sant Marceli, in the S of the city | phone=+34 960 011 511 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Exhibitions: Tu-Th 10:00-22:00, F-Su 10:00-23:30; box office: Tu-Su 10:00-14:00, 2 hrs before performance | price= | image=Llacuna i espai Rambleta, València.JPG | lastedit=2017-11-16 | content=The cultural centre is a venue for music, theatre and dance performances, and hosts rotating temporary exhibits. It also has an onsite restaurant. Tickets for events can be purchased [http://es.larambleta.com/eventos/entradas online]. }} ===Planetarium and cinemas=== [[File:Ciudad de las ciencias noche.JPG|thumb|''Palau de les Arts'' and ''L’Hemisfèric'', in the City of Arts and Sciences]] * {{do | name=L’Hemisfèric | alt= | url=http://www.cac.es/en/hemisferic.html | email= | address= | lat=39.4567 | long=-0.3539 | directions=City of Arts and Sciences | phone=+34 961 974 686 (guided tour) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Ticket office: 10:00 until beginning of last film | price=Shows: €8.80 (adults), €6.85 (concessions); guided tour: €28 | wikipedia=es:L'Hemisfèric | image=Hemispheric - Valencia, Spain - Jan 2007.jpg | wikidata=Q2712673 | lastedit=2016-06-29 | content=Designed by Valencian architect Santiago Calatravato to resemble a giant eye, this building functions as an IMAX and 3D cinema as well as planetarium. Multiple films are screened daily, with a schedule available online. For visitors interested in seeing the inner workings of the building, guided tours are available M-F at 12.00 and 16.00 in Spanish and English. The building also has a restaurant and shop. }} * {{do | name=La Filmoteca | alt= | url=https://ivc.gva.es/es/audiovisuales/programacion/valencia-la-filmoteca-cas | email= | address=Pl. de l'Ajuntament, 17, Ciutat Vella | lat=39.47101 | long=-0.37629 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=09:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-05-13 | content=Interesting cinema with cafe. }} * {{do | name=Cines Babel | alt= | url=http://www.cinesalbatrosbabel.com/ | email= | address=Carrer de Vicent Sancho Tello, 10 | lat=39.46971 | long=-0.35702 | directions=bus: 10,12,93& C2 stop Aragó Finlàndia/Xile metro: {{station|Aragó|5|7}} | phone=+34 963 694 530 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Cines Babel.jpg | lastedit=2025-05-14 | content=An art-house cinema which screens films in their original languages, including many current releases. The cinema has an adjoining café, and offers mid-week deals of dinner plus a movie for a reduced ticket price. All films VO. }} * {{do | name=Yelmo Cines | alt= | url=http://www.yelmocines.es/ | email= | address=Avenida de Tirso de Molina, 16 | lat=39.47734 | long=-0.39538 | directions=Campanar | phone=+34 963 173 590 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-11-21 | content=A modern cineplex which shows the latest blockbusters, with both dubbed and original language versions (''VOS'': versión original subtitulada). }} ===Beaches=== [[File:Valencia - Beach 01.jpg|thumb|Malvarrosa Beach]] There are two city beaches, and several major beaches outside of Valencia. {{marker|type=do|name=Platja del Les Arenes|lat=39.4661|long=-0.3217|image=Orilla de la Playa de las Arenas 08.jpg}} (''Platja del Cabanyal'' / ''Playa de las Arenas''), just north of the port, has a pleasant promenade with a number of traditional (and expensive) restaurants, bars, and ice cream shops. The more northern {{marker|type=do|name=Platja de Malvarrosa|lat=39.4790|long=-0.3235|image=Valencia - Beach 01.jpg}} begins where the promenade ends, and is the setting for volleyball tournaments, kite festivals, and windsurfing. In the summer both beaches have lifeguards and first aid stations, toilets, and snack vendors, and are very crowded especially in the afternoons. To get there, take the metro or tram to Eugenia Vines or Arenas station, or take the metro to {{station|Marítim|5|7|6|8}} and continue with the tram to {{station|Neptú|8}} (all on one ticket). To the north of and immediately adjoining Malvarossa is {{marker|type=do|name=Platja de la Patacona|lat=39.4887|long=-0.3241|image=La Patacona.jpg}} (''Playa de la Patacona''), which, although part of the municipality of Alboraya, is easily accessible from Valencia by public transport or foot. This beach is somewhat less crowded, and is also a good place to sample horchata, as Alboraya is a major producer of chufa, a key ingredient of the drink. The beaches south of Valencia port are all part of [[Albufera Natural Park]]. They are generally well-maintained and far less crowded than the urban beaches, and easily reachable by public transport. ===Spectator sports=== [[File:Recorte Valencia 09-10-18.jpg|thumb|Recortes are a nonviolent alternative to bullfighting]] * {{do | name=Bullfighting | alt=corrida de toros | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Bullfights €12-120, recortes €10 | lastedit=2018-10-11 | content=Bullfights are staged in Valencia only during three short seasons, including Falles (mid-March), the Fira de Juliol (July Festival), and the Nou d’Octubre (Valencian National Day in October).<br />If you are put off by bullfighting, consider attending a '''recortes''' competition, an ancient nonviolent alternative practiced only in the Valencian Community, [[Navarra]], [[La Rioja]], and northern [[Castile-La Mancha]]. ''Recortadores'' leap, perform backflips, and occasionally pole-vault over charging bulls. The bulls are unharmed and not killed afterward, but it is very dangerous for the athletes, who are often matadors-in-training. While these events are not as well-attended as bullfights, popularity is growing. Typically there is one recortes event during each bullfighting season. }} ** {{do | name=Plaça de Bous de València | alt=Plaza de Toros de Valencia | url=http://www.torosvalencia.com | email= | address=Carrer de Xàtiva, 28 | lat=39.46663 | long=-0.37614 | directions=next to North Train Station | phone=+34 902 10 7777 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Plaza de Toros de Valencia | image=Plaza toros Valencia.jpg | wikidata=Q526528 | content=A bullring and artistic monument, it is used for bull fighting and big shows. The stadium holds 12,884 people, and was built between 1850 and 1860 by Valencian architect Sebastián Monleón Estellés. }} ** {{see | name=Museu Taurí de València | alt=Museo Taurino de Valencia | url=http://www.museotaurinovalencia.es/es/museo | email=infotaurino@dival.es | address=Pasaje Doctor Serra, 10 | lat=39.46628 | long=-0.37564 | directions= | phone=+34 96 388 3738 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 10:00-19:00, Su M 10:00-14:00; closed 1 Jan, 1 May and 25 Dec | price=€2 (adults), €1 (concessions); free on Sa, Su and holidays | wikipedia=es:Museo Taurino de Valencia | image=Puertataurino.jpg | wikidata=Q1431438 | lastedit=2018-02-18 | content=Has displays illustrating the development of Valencian bullfighting since the 19th century. }} * '''Football:''' the city has two pro soccer teams: ** Valencia CF play in La Liga, Spain's top tier. {{marker | type=do | name=Mestalla stadium | lat=39.4746 | long=-0.3582 }} (capacity 48,600) is 1 km northeast of the city centre. They are long overdue for moving to Nou Mestalla stadium to the northwest, but ran out of money and construction work has halted. Their women's team plays in Liga F (their top tier) at Paterna training ground 5 km northwest of the centre. ** [http://www.levanteud.com/en/ Levante UD] were promoted in 2025 so they too play in L Liga. {{marker | type=do | name=Ciutat de València Stadium | lat=39.4947 | long=-0.3638 }} (capacity 26,300) is 2 km north of the centre, near the Machado metro stop. Their women's team is in Liga F, playing at Buñol 40 km west of the city. * '''[https://www.valenciaciudaddelrunning.com Valencia Marathon]''' is held in early December. ==Learn== ===Spanish=== * {{listing | name=Don Quijote | alt= | url=https://www.donquijote.org/learn-spanish-spain/valencia/ | email=infocentral@donquijote.org | address=Carrer dels Cadirers, 5 | lat=39.47563 | long=-0.37833 | directions= | phone=+34 963 553 174 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-01-28 | content=Offers courses of 4–6 hours a day. All courses, including beginner courses, are taught entirely in Spanish. }} * {{listing | name=Espanole | alt=International House Valencia | url= | email=info@espanole.es | address=Carrer de la Nau, 22 | lat=39.47194 | long=-0.37136 | directions= | phone=+34 96 353 0404 | tollfree= | fax=+34 96 353 1929 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-24 | content=A member of International House, a network of language schools all over the world. The school provides the students with lots of leisure time activities and even housing can be arranged by the school, either in a studio, in a shared apartment or in a guest family. Even the beginner courses are taught entirely in Spanish, which makes it difficult to follow the lessons in the beginning. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Linguaschools Valencia | alt= | url=http://www.linguavalencia.com/ | email=info@linguavalencia.com | address=Carrer Bernat y Baldoví, 11 | lat=39.48007 | long=-0.36481 | directions=next to the Universidad de Valencia | phone=+34 93 176 1536 | tollfree= | hours=Office hrs M-F 09:00-17:30 | price= | lastedit=2015-06-24 | content=Organizes Spanish courses for foreigners, using the immersion method. The school is based in a real Spanish villa close to the old town of Valencia. Here, you can enjoy your classes, lounge on one of the terraces or study in the garden. }} * {{listing | name=Route 66 Idiomas | alt= | url=http://www.route66idiomas.com/ | email=info@route66idiomas.com | address=Carrer de Moratín, 15-4 | lat=39.47091 | long=-0.37557 | directions= | phone=+34 96 342 7368 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-24 | content=Offers courses in both Spanish and Valencian (Catalan). Students can choose to study 10-20 hours a week, or choose a less intensive long-term option of 3-4 hours a week. }} * {{listing | name=Enforex | alt= | url=https://www.enforex.com/learn-spanish/school-valencia/ | email= | address=Pg. de les Facultats, 3 | lat=39.477706 | long=-0.347924 | directions= | phone=+34 963 69 36 96 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-12-14 | content=Spanish courses for all ages, intensive or private. Start any Monday of the year your Spanish course. }} ===Cooking=== * {{listing | name=Escuela de Arroces y Paellas | alt= | url=https://escueladearrocesypaellas.com/en/ | email= | address=Carrer del Bisbe En Jeroni, 8 | lat=39.47707 | long=-0.377642 | directions=Carme | phone=+34 961 043 540 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily | price=€50-75 adults, €30-70 under 18 | lastedit=2018-01-14 | content=Offers cooking classes in English for several types of paella, including classic Valencian, seafood, and vegetarian. Morning classes on M-Sa also include a visit to the Mercat Central, and all classes include tapas, wine, paella and dessert, and a take-home paella pan with apron. }} ==Buy== [[File:Plaza Redonda Valencia 01.JPG|thumb|Plaça Redona (''Plaza Redonda'')]] *The area around {{marker|type=buy|name=Plaça del Patriarca|lat=39.47210|long=-0.37352|image=Patriarca façana.jpg}} (''Plaza del Patriarca'') is a good place to look for the major national brands like Loewe, LLadró, Louis Vuitton, Dolores, and Farrutx. * {{buy | name=Plaça Redona | alt=Plaza Redonda | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.47358 | long=-0.37660 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-20:00, Su and holidays 08:00-14:00 (flea market) | price= | wikipedia=ca:Plaça Redona | image=Plaza Redonda Valencia 01.JPG | wikidata=Q11942014 | lastedit=2015-11-21 | content=Designed by Valencian architect Melchor Escrig Salvador in the mid-19th century, this unique building was constructed around a round plaza, and was noted by Valencian novelist Vicente Blasco Ibáñez in his novel ''Arroz y Tartana''. The building has been completely renovated and now is home to a number of shops for traditional crafts as well as tapas bars. On Sunday mornings it is home to a flea market. }} * {{buy | name=Mercat de l’Escuraeta | alt=Mercado de L’Escuraeta | url= | email= | address=Plaça de la Reina | lat=39.47497 | long=-0.37535 | directions=just S of the cathedral | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily from the second Sunday of May until Corpus Christi, usually at the end of May or early June | price= | image=065 Parada a la pl. de la Reina (València), al fons la Catedral.JPG | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=This traditional market dates back to the 13th century and Jaume I, when vendors set up extra stalls by the cathedral to coincide with the annual ''Festividad de la Virgen'' (feast of the Virgin). Items sold here include crockery and traditional cooking utensils, as well as pottery and other arts and crafts. }} * {{buy | name=Frutos Secos del Carmen | alt= | url=https://www.frutossecosdelcarmen.es/ | email=info@frutossecosdelcarmen.es | address=Carrer de Dalt, 20 | lat=39.4774501 | long=-0.3820887 | directions=El Carme | phone=+34 696 945 745 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-10-10 | content=A traditional local shop that sells all kinds of dried fruits and nuts. }} * {{buy | name=Insectum | alt= | url=https://insectum.es/ | email= | address=Mercado de Ruzafa | lat=39.461808 | long=-0.37104 | directions= | phone=+34 630924090 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 11AM-2PM | price= | lastedit=2024-07-22 | content=Shop specializing in edible insects. Only one of its kind in Spain. }} ===Food markets=== [[File:El Mercado Central.JPG|thumb|Mercat Central]] * {{buy | name=Mercat Central | alt=Mercado Central / Central Market | url=https://www.mercadocentralvalencia.es/El-Mercado.aspx | email= | address=Plaça de la Ciutat de Bruges, s/n | lat=39.47353 | long=-0.37895 | directions=El Mercat | phone=+34 963 829 100 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 07:00-15:00 | price= | wikipedia=Mercado Central, Valencia | image=El Mercado Central.JPG | wikidata=Q2197068 | lastedit=2015-06-04 | content=In a restored modernist iron and glass building dating from 1928, this is one of the largest markets in Europe. See how the locals shop for food and buy some fantastic fresh produce, meat, seafood, or olives. }} * {{buy | name=Mercat del Cabanyal | alt=Mercado del Cabañal / Cabanyal Market | url=http://www.mercadocabanyal.es/ | email=info@mercadocabanyal.es | address=Carrer de Martí Grajales, 4 | lat=39.46785 | long=-0.33325 | directions=Cabanyal | phone=+34 963 446 316 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 07:00-14:30, F 07:00-20:30, Sa 07:00-14:30 | price= | wikipedia=ca:Mercat del Cabanyal | image=Mercat del Cabanyal.JPG | wikidata=Q18004765 | lastedit=2016-09-04 | content=Traditionally one of the better markets in the city for fish, this also has fresh produce and artisanal products. Has free Wi-Fi throughout the building, no registration or password required. }} * {{buy | name=Mercat de Mosén Sorell | alt=Mercado de Mosén Sorell | url= | email= | address=Plaça de Mossén Sorell | lat=39.47786 | long=-0.38052 | directions=Carmen | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-W 07:30-15:00, Th 17:00-20:00, F 17:30-21:00, Sa 07:30-15:00 | price= | image=Mercat de Mossén Sorell.JPG | lastedit=2017-06-23 | content=A smaller market, which was renovated in 2016, in the centre of the Carmen neighbourhood. }} * {{buy | name=Mercat de Russafa | alt=Mercado de Russafa | url=http://mercatderussafa.com/ | email=info@mercatderussafa.com | address=Plaça del Baró de Cortés, 9 | lat=39.46204 | long=-0.37139 | directions=Ruzafa | phone=+34 963 744 025 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 07:00-15:00 | price= | image=Mercat de Russafa (València), vista interior 1.JPG | lastedit=2016-09-04 | content=Designed by Julio Bellot Senet and completed in 1957, the market is at the centre of the vibrant Ruzafa neighbourhood. Inside are more than 60 vendors of all types of food products, as well as a bar and café. }} ===Street markets=== [[File:El Rastro Valencia.jpg|thumb|El Rastro]] * {{buy | name=El Rastro | alt=Flea market | url=https://www.facebook.com/El-Rastro-de-Valencia-455457234466518/ | email=maestrocarcoma@ono.com | address=Plaça de Lluís Casanova, s/n | lat=39.47585 | long=-0.35772 | directions=Mestalla: car park of the Valencia Football Club | phone=+34 962 084 736 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su 08:00-13:30 | price= | image=El Rastro Valencia.jpg | lastedit=2017-10-04 | content=Valencia's enormous second-hand market is a good place to pick up all sorts of odds and ends, ranging from vintage toys to Valencian ceramics to bicycle parts. Vendors are licensed and there is a police presence, but do beware of pickpockets. }} * {{buy | name=Mercadillo de Ruzafa | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.46253 | long=-0.37267 | directions=several streets NW of the Mercat de Russafa and by the parish church | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M 09:00-14:00 | price= | image=Puesto ropa mercadillo Blanco-White (27931270723).jpg | lastedit=2017-10-04 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Mercadillo de Cabanyal | alt=Cabanyal street market | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.46753 | long=-0.33220 | directions=several square blocks E of the Mercat del Cabanyal | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Th 09:00-14:00 | price= | image=Mercadillo de Cabanyal.jpg | lastedit=2017-10-04 | content=One of the larger and more colourful weekly street markets. }} * {{buy | name=Mercadillo de Benimaclet | alt=Benimaclet street market | url= | email= | address=Carrer de Juan Giner and Carrer del Reverend Rafael Tramoyeres | lat=39.48459 | long=-0.35938 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=F 09:00-14:00 | price= | image=Mercadillo de Benimaclet 2.jpg | lastedit=2017-10-04 | content= }} ===Bookshops=== * {{buy | name=Casa del Libro | alt= | url=https://www.casadellibro.com/nosotros/tienda/passeig-russafa-11/13 | email=valencia@casadellibro.com | address=Passeig Russafa, 11 | lat=39.46771 | long=-0.37498 | directions=centro | phone=+34 902 026 411 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:30-21:30, Su and holidays 12:00-21:30 | price= | image=Casa del Libro (Valencia).jpg | lastedit=2018-01-28 | content=Probably Valencia's largest bookshop and part of a national chain, it has four floors of new and used books, with a good selection of books in English and other languages. Pets are permitted. }} * {{buy | name=fnac | alt= | url=https://www.fnac.es/Fnac-Valencia-San-Agustin/Fnac-Valencia/cl4/w-4 | email=ayuda@envios.fnac.es | address=Carrer de Guillem de Castro, 9-11 | lat=39.46822 | long=-0.38062 | directions= | phone=+34 902 100 632 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-21:30, Sa and holidays 11:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-11-09 | content=This branch of the French chain has a good selection of English books on the first floor, along with DVDs and computer accessories. }} * {{buy | name=Librería París | alt= | url=http://www.parisvalencia.com/ | email=nota@parisvalencia.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+34 963 671 958 (information) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-11-09 | content=This Valencian independent bookstore carries new and discounted books, with a selection of titles in English and other European languages, including in the travel section. It is also a good place to pick up Spanish cookbooks. There are four branches in town. }} ** {{buy | name=Librería París | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gran Via del Marqués del Túria, 74 | lat=39.46786 | long=-0.36612 | directions=Eixample | phone=+34 963 959 366 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-14:00 17:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-11-09 | content= }} ** {{buy | name=Librería París | alt= | url= | email= | address=Plaça d'Alfons el Magnànim, 13 | lat=39.47230 | long=-0.37098 | directions=centro | phone=+34 963 520 273 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-14:00 16:30-20:30, Sa 10:00-14:00 17:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-11-09 | content= }} ** {{buy | name=Librería París | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer de Pelai, 7 | lat=39.46706 | long=-0.37840 | directions=near the train station | phone=+34 963 525 440 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:30-14:00 16:00-20:30 | price= | lastedit=2017-11-09 | content= }} ** {{buy | name=Librería París | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer de Navellos, 8 | lat=39.47690 | long=-0.37502 | directions=centro, near the Plaça de la Verge | phone=+34 963 918 133 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-14:00 16:30-20:30, Sa 17:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-11-09 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Librería Patagonia | alt= | url=http://www.libreriapatagonia.com/ | email= | address=Carrer de l'Hospital, 1 | lat=39.47101 | long=-0.38036 | directions= | phone=+34 963 936 052 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:30-14:00 16:30-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-11-09 | content=For visitors who read some Spanish, this travel bookshop is a good resource as it stocks a good range of Spanish and regional travel guides, maps, and other travel accessories. }} ===Shopping centres=== * {{buy | name=Aqua Multispacio | alt= | url=http://aqua-multiespacio.com/ | email=info@aqua-multiespacio.com | address=Carrer de Menorca, 19 | lat=39.45664 | long=-0.34577 | directions=near the City of Arts and Science | phone=+34 963 308 429 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Shops: M-Sa 10:00-22:00, Su and holidays 11:00-21:00; restaurants: Su-Th 10:00-01:30, F Sa and holidays 10:00-04:00; gym: M-F 07:00-23:00, Sa Su and holidays 08:00-21:00 | price= | image=Berlin challenger.JPG | lastedit=2016-09-04 | content=Along with the usual chain shops and restaurants, this large complex has two hotels, a cinema, a bowling centre, and a large gym and pool. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and there is a taxi stand outside. }} * {{buy | name=Centro Comercial El Saler | alt= | url=http://www.elsaler.com/ | email=ccelsaler@elsaler.com | address=Avda del Professor López Piñero, 16 | lat=39.45283 | long=-0.35548 | directions=near the City of Arts and Science | phone=+34 963 957 012 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Shops: M-Sa 10:00-22:00, Su 11:00-21:00; Carrefour: M-Sa 09:00-22:00, Su 10:00-21:00; restaurants: daily 10:00-00:00 | price= | image=Centro Comercial El Saler.jpg | lastedit=2018-02-20 | content=Has a full range of standard international chain stores as well as restaurants and a Carrefour hypermarket. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and there is a taxi stand outside. }} * {{buy | name=Centro Comercial Nuevo Centro | alt= | url=http://www.nuevocentro.es/ | email=info@nuevocentro.es | address=Avda Pio XII, 2 | lat=39.48049 | long=-0.39013 | directions=near the bus station | phone=+34 963 471 642 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Shops: M-Sa 10:00-22:00, Su and holidays 11:00-21:00; restaurants: daily 09:00-24:00 | price= | image=Centro Comercial Nuevo Centro.jpg | wikidata=Q5761092 | lastedit=2016-09-04 | content=Has more than 80 shops and restaurants as well as a branch of Corte Inglés. Also has a children's playground, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building. There is a taxi stand outside. }} * {{buy | name=La Galería Jorge Juan | alt= | url=http://www.lagaleriajorgejuan.com/ | email=info@lagaleriajorgejuan.com | address=Carrer de Jorge Juan, 21 | lat=39.46839 | long=-0.36852 | directions=across from Mercat de Colom | phone=+34 963 524 966 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Shops: M-Sa 10:00-21:00; restaurants: M-Sa 09:00-21:00 | price= | image=La Galería Jorge Juan.jpg | lastedit=2017-10-04 | content=Has 40 shops and a restaurant. Parking available. }} ==Eat== {{infobox|Tips on Paella|* To recognize 'real' local paella from tourist junk, avoid any places with large paella pictures on the door step. This is a sure sign for frozen/microwaved paella. * When possible, make reservations or arrive early (no later than 14:00), especially on Sunday, because these restaurants fill up quite quickly on the weekend. * Paella is typically eaten at mid-day (between 14:00-17:00), so many restaurants do not serve it at dinner. Be careful of those that do as this is not the custom here and the quality of the paella may be poor. * The paella pan is of a size that almost all restaurants require a minimum of two servings for an order. Restaurants that allow ordering one order are likely serving frozen paella. }} [[File:Arroz negro - SM.JPG|thumb|Arròs negre]] * {{eat | name=Paella | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Paella | wikidata=Q212121 | lastedit=2017-06-23 | content=There are several versions of this tasteful rice dish: ''paella valenciana'', with meat (chicken and/or rabbit usually), ''paella de marisco'', with fish or seafood, or even ''paella mixta'', with meat and fish at the same time, the least popular among locals. It is very difficult to say which is the 'real' paella, as every person has his/her own version (though '''no''' paella that deserves this name contains sausage, ham or meat broth, for instance). If you want to eat an authentic paella, try it at the Malvarrosa beach area; you will find there are several good restaurants. The authentic Valencian paella is made only with fresh ingredients, in a special iron pan and using a fire made with wood (not gas or electricity). Vegetarian paella is called ''paella vegetal'' or ''paella de verduras''. Authentic paella can be rather dry, it's not a soup and shouldn't look like gumbo. Don't be shy about scraping the caramelized rice from the bottom of the pan, it's delicious! }} * {{eat | name=Arròs a banda | alt=arroz a banda | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Arròs a banda | wikidata=Q3462362 | lastedit=2017-06-23 | content=A side dish of rice cooked in fish stock, usually served with alioli. }} * {{eat | name=Arròs negre | alt=arroz negro | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Arròs negre | wikidata=Q3543394 | lastedit=2017-06-23 | content=Also cooked in fish stock, this rice dish is black because it contains squid ink, as well as squid or cuttlefish, peppers, and paprika. }} * {{eat | name=Fideuà | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Fideuà | wikidata=Q20016 | lastedit=2017-06-23 | content=This paella-like dish, with short noodles and fish, was invented in [[Gandía]] and can be usually found in paella restaurants. It deserves a try too. }} * {{eat | name=All i pebre| alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=es:All i pebre | wikidata=Q3889655 | lastedit=2017-06-23 | content=A stew made of eel, a snake like fish typical from the [[Albufera_Natural_Park|Albufera]], a lagoon near Valencia. You can drive to El Palmar and taste it there. Delicious, but a very special taste. You can find good paella, and other traditional dishes at the restaurants there too. }} * {{eat | name=Llet merengada | alt=leche merengada | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=es:Leche merengada | wikidata=Q740600 | lastedit=2017-06-23 | content=A kind of milk-based soft ice cream with a cinnamon-lemon taste. }} * {{eat | name=Bunyols | alt=buñuelos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Buñuelo | wikidata=Q8705390 | lastedit=2017-06-23 | content=Fried doughnuts, sometimes round shaped, sometimes like rings. Widely available only during March during the Falles celebration. Dip them in hot chocolate. Sometimes they are too oily, so don't eat a lot of them or you will not be hungry again for several hours. If you can choose the ''carabasa'' (pumpkin) version, you should try it. They are generally tastier. }} [[File:Central Bar 2.jpg|thumb|Tapas at Central Bar, in the Mercat Central]] [[File:WLM14ES - MERCADODE COLÓN DE VALENCIA 05072008 181508 00002 - .jpg|thumb|Mercat de Colom (''Mercado de Colón'')]] [[File:Tasca Angel Tapas.jpg|thumb|Grilled mushrooms and sardines at Tasca Ángel]] ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Tasca Ángel | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Tasca-Angel-163047987042853/ | email= | address=Carrer de la Puríssima, 1 | lat=39.47486 | long=-0.37766 | directions=behind the Llotja | phone=+34 963 917 835 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Tasca Angel Tapas.jpg | hours=M-Sa 10:30-15:00 19:30-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2016-07-01 | content=This tiny but very popular tapas bar is known for its ''sardinas'' (grilled sardines), served with garlic infused olive oil and white bread. Other specialties include ''champiñones a la plancha'' (grilled mushrooms) and ''gambas al ajillo'' (garlic prawns). The place only has a handful of tables with additional seating at the bar, and tends to get very packed after 21:00. }} * {{eat | name=La Pascuala | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/bodegalapascuala | email= | address=Carrer d'Eugenia Viñes, 177 | lat=39.46984 | long=-0.32574 | directions=Cabanyal | phone=+34 963 713 814 | tollfree= | fax= | image=La Pascuala.jpg | hours=M-Sa 09:00-15:30 | price=€5 for bocadillo and drink (June 2016) | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This is a very popular place for almuerzo (late breakfast or early lunch), and is especially known for its very large bocadillos. No reservations are accepted, but it's worth the wait for a table. }} * {{eat | name=Kiosco La Pérgola | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/lapergolavalencia | email= | address=Passeig de l'Albereda, 1 | lat=39.4766 | long=-0.36661 | directions=near the Jardí de Montfort | phone=+34 963 699 079 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 08:00-16:30, Sa 08:30-16:00; closed for the month of August | price=Drink + bocadillo €3-4 (Oct 2017) | image=Kiosco La Pérgola.jpg | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This is a very popular lunch spot for delicious and cheap bocadillos. Their signature bocadillo is the ''Super Bombon'', piled high with steak, jamón, lettuce, dressing, and french fries. The ''Bombon'', which omits the french fries, is a slightly lighter version. Getting a table requires some patience, or reservations. }} * {{eat | name=La Lluna | alt=vegetarian | url=http://www.restaurantelalluna.es/ | email= | address=Carrer de Sant Ramon, 23 | lat=39.47822 | long=-0.38199 | directions=at the Centre Cultural la Beneficència | phone=+34 963 922 146 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-16:30, 20:00-00:00 | price=Lunch menu €8-11 (July 2015) | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Andalus Dolç | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Andalus-dol%C3%A7-357935530947828/ | email= | address=Carrer de Yecla, 16 | lat=39.47260 | long=-0.35031 | directions=in L'Amistat | phone=+34 963 254 771 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Cuscús de verduras.jpg | hours=M-Th 11:00-00:00, F Sa 11:00-00:30, Su 10:00-00:00 | price=€9.50 set menu (Feb 2016) | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This restaurant-coffeeshop is a favourite with the local Moroccan community and serves a range of traditional Moroccan dishes, some of them vegetarian. It also has an excellent onsite bakery. }} * {{eat | name=Ca la Mar | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/calamarcabanyal | email=calamarcabanyal@gmail.com | address=Carrer de Just Vilar, 19 | lat=39.46719 | long=-0.33107 | directions=El Cabanyal | phone=+34 963 259 827 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu W 11:00-01:00, Th-Su 10:00-01:00 | price= | image=Ca la Mar.jpg | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This very small restaurant serves creative tapas, with a number of seafood as well as vegetarian options. Pleasant seating is both indoor and along a pedestrian-only street. They also have a decent selection of wine, as well as the local Turía beer. }} * {{eat | name=Cerveceria Alhambra | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer de Calixt III, 8 | lat=39.47150 | long=-0.38868 | directions=Extramurs | phone=+34 963 843 057 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 07:00-18:30; closed for the month of August | price=€5 for tortilla and drink (Nov 2015) | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=This small sidewalk eatery is known throughout the city for its excellent ''tortillas de patatas'' in a number of flavours, many of them vegetarian. Tortillas can be eaten either with a fork (''pincho'') or in a sandwich (''bocadillo''). Meatballs (''albondigas'') are also served here, but main attraction are the tortillas. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Central Bar | alt= | url=http://www.centralbar.es/en/ | email= | address=Plaça de la Ciutat de Bruges, s/n | lat=39.47317 | long=-0.37895 | directions=by Puerta 3 in the Mercat Central | phone=+34 963 829 223 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 06:30-15:30 | price=Tapas €4-9 (Feb 2016) | image=Central Bar 4.jpg | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=One of a trio of restaurants owned and operated by famed Valencian chef Ricard Camarena, this tapas bar is a good place to sample his food without breaking the bank. The menu changes daily depending on what's available in the market. Reservations are not accepted, so if you plan to visit for lunch be prepared to wait awhile for a seat. }} * {{eat | name=Mercat de Colón | alt=Mercado de Colón | url=http://www.mercadocolon.es/ | email= | address=Carrer de Jorge Juan, 19 | lat=39.4689 | long=-0.3684 | directions=El Pla del Remei | phone=+34 963 371 101 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=es:Mercado de Colón | image=WLM14ES - MERCADODE COLÓN DE VALENCIA 05072008 181508 00002 - .jpg | wikidata=Q3393246 | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=Built in 1916 as a marketplace, this excellent example of modernist architecture now houses a number of cafés and tapas bars. Every Sunday at noon there are free classical music [http://mercadocolon.es/eventoscal/ concerts]. }} * {{eat | name=Portland Ale House | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Portland-Ale-House/35965599857?sk=wall | email= | address=Carrer de Salamanca, 10 | lat=39.46702 | long=-0.36494 | directions=Gran Via | phone=+34 96 381 0406 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 19:00-02:00 | price= | image=Portland Ale House 2.jpg | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=Owned and operated by an American from Portland, Oregon, this place serves classic American bar food and burgers, along with a good range of local beers. For those looking to improve their Spanish (or English) there is an intercambio (language exchange) open to all Wednesday evenings beginning at 20:30. }} * {{eat | name=Yuk Mi | alt= | url=http://www.yukmi.com/ | email= | address=Carrer de Salabert, 24 | lat=39.46311 | long=-0.39464 | directions=Patraix | phone=+34 963 787 022 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 13:30-15:30 20:30-22:30 | price=Mains €8-12 (June 2017) | image=Yukmi Korean Cuisine.jpg | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=One of only two Korean restaurants in Valencia, this family-operated restaurant is highly-regarded in the Asian community for its authentic home-style Korean cooking. Dishes can be modified to accommodate vegetarians, and diners can request how spicy (or not) they prefer their meal. }} [[File:Arroz con pato en La Alquería del Pou.jpg|thumb|''Arroz con pato'' at Alquería del Pou]] [[File:La Rentaora 2.jpg|thumb|Tapas at Bodega La Rentaora]] [[File:Vuelve Carolina 5.jpg|thumb|Tapa at Vuelve Carolina]] * {{eat | name=Alquería del Pou | alt= | url=http://alqueriadelpou.com/ | email= | address=Entrada Rico, 6 | lat=39.45048 | long=-0.35334 | directions=southern outskirts, near Centre Comercial El Saler and the City of Arts and Sciences | phone=+34 963 737 706 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Arroz con pato en La Alquería del Pou.jpg | hours=Daily 13:00-17:00; closed every Su in Aug | price=Mains €12-20 | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=A favourite with locals, this hidden gem specialises in all types of traditional Valencian rice dishes and seafood, served in a garden setting. }} * {{eat | name=Bar Ricardo | alt= | url=http://barricardo.com/english.html {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Carrer del Dr. Zamenhof, 16 | lat=39.47618 | long=-0.39155 | directions=near the Turía River Park | phone=+34 963 226 949 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 08:00-00:00; closed public holidays | price= | image=Bar Ricardo.jpg | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=Operating since 1947, the restaurant serves traditional Valencian seafood, tapas, and sandwiches. It is also especially known for very good ''patatas bravas'' and ''ensalada rusa''. }} * {{eat | name=Bodega La Rentaora | alt= | url=https://es-es.facebook.com/La-Rentaora-165894116781897/ | email= | address=Plaça del Mossén Sorell, 11 | lat=39.47779 | long=-0.38025 | directions=El Carme | phone=+34 670 396 302 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 20:00-01:00, Sa Su 12:00-17:00 20:00-01:00 | price=€7-10 tapa + drink | image=La Rentaora 2.jpg | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=Serves simple, creative and high-quality tapas, along with a full range of drinks. }} * {{eat | name=Canalla Bistro | alt= | url=http://www.canallabistro.com/en/ | email=reservas@canallabistro.com | address=Carrer del Mestre Josep Serrano, 5 | lat=39.46364 | long=-0.36997 | directions=Ruzafa | phone=+34 963 740 509 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Canalla Bistro 1.jpg | hours=Daily 13:30-15:30, 20:30-23:30 | price= | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=This is the second of a trio of restaurants owned by star Valencian chef Ricard Camarena, with an eclectic menu that varies seasonally. Reservations can be made [https://module.eltenedor.es/es_ES/module/23516-bdd05 online]. }} * {{eat | name=Refugio Restaurante | alt= | url=http://www.refugiorestaurante.com/ | email=refugio.restaurante@gmail.com | address=Carrer de Dalt, 42 | lat=39.47838 | long=-0.37991 | directions=El Carme | phone=+34 690 617 018 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 14:00-15:30 21:00-23:30 | price=€12.50 (set menu M-F), €16 (set menu Sa and Su) | image=Refugio Restaurante.jpg | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=Across the street from an air raid shelter from the civil war, it serves very innovative fusion cuisine. Reservations can be requested online. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurante Balansiya | alt= | url=http://www.balansiya.com/ | email= | address=Passeig de les Facultats, 3 | lat=39.47778 | long=-0.34790 | directions= | phone=+34 963 890 824 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 13:30-17:00, 20:30-24:00 | price=Set menu €10-12 (weekdays only), tasting menu €20-30 | image=Restaurante Balansiya 1.jpg | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=A highly-regarded Moroccan restaurant which has been reviewed in the ''New York Times'' and has an extensive menu. Reservations can be made [http://www.balansiya.com/reservas.html online]. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurante Navarro | alt= | url=http://restaurantenavarro.com/en/ | email= | address=Carrer de l'Arquebisbe Mayoral, 5 | lat=39.46931 | long=-0.37803 | directions= | phone=+34 963 529 623 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 13:30-16:00, Sa 13:30-16:00 20:30-23:00; closed Su except for holidays | price=Set menu €22 | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=Serves classic Mediterranean dishes using ingredients from the Mercat Central and Mercat de Russafa, with a number of vegetarian options and a good wine selection. Paellas and other Valencian rice dishes must be reserved in advance. Reservations are required, and can be made [http://restaurantenavarro.com/en/contact/ online]. }} * {{eat | name=Swagat Valencia | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/swagatvalencia | email= | address=Carrer del Comte d'Altea, 44 | lat=39.46697 | long=-0.365509 | directions= | phone=+34 963 041 742 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 12:30-16:30 20:00-00:00 | price= | image=Swagat Valencia.jpg | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=Probably the best and most authentic of the few Indian restaurants in the city, Swagat serves a range of dishes from both northern and southern India. Diners can request dishes be spiced for the Indian, rather than the blander Spanish, palate. Reservations strongly recommended, especially on weekends. }} * {{eat | name=Taberna Comer Beber Amar | alt= | url= | email=reservas@comerbeberamar.net | address=Passeig de l'Albereda, 38 | lat=39.46335 | long=-0.35779 | directions= | phone=+34 96 337 5237 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 12:00-00:00 | price=Set menu €24 | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=Serves paella, fideuà, and meat and seafood. Does not serve tapas, but does have a good wine selection. }} * {{eat | name=La Tastaolletes | alt= | url=http://www.latastaolletes.es/ | email= | address=Carrer de Salvador Giner, 6 | lat=39.48015 | long=-0.37985 | directions=El Carme | phone=+34 963 921 862 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 14:00-16:00 21:00-24:00, Su 14:00-16:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=Vegetarian. }} * {{eat | name=El Poblet Restaurante | alt= | url=http://elpobletrestaurante.com/home | email=elpoblet@elpobletrestaurante.com | address=Carrer de Correus, 8 | lat=39.46973 | long=-0.37445 | directions=1st floor, above Vuelve Carolina | phone=+34 961 111 106 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M 13:30-15:30 20:30-22:30, Tu 13:30-15:30, W-Sa 13:30-15:30 20:30-22:30 | price=Mains €21 | image=El Poblet 6.jpg | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=Operated by star chef Quique Dacosta, the restaurant serves his most famous dishes from his eponymous three-starred Michelin restaurant in [[Dénia]], but without the sky-high prices. This restaurant was awarded its own Michelin star in 2013. Reservations can be made [http://reservas.quiquedacosta.es/reserva/elpoblet/en online]. }} * {{eat | name=Taberna Kalixto | alt= | url= | email= | address=Calle Calixto III 29 | lat=39.471100 | long=-0.391307 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-15 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Cafe Madrigal | alt= | url=https://www.cafemadrigal.es/ | email= | address=Calle de Puerto Rico 41 | lat=39.46077 | long=-0.37706 | directions={{station|Alacant|10}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00-23:00 every day | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Small cafe with outdoor seating offering tasty vegan food. On-line reservations available. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:La Pepica Valencia.jpg|thumb|Paella at La Pepica]] [[File:Ricard Camarena Restaurant 2.jpg|thumb|Ricard Camarena Restaurant]] * {{eat | name=La Más Bonita Patacona | alt= | url=http://lamasbonita.es/en/ | email= | address=Passeig Marítim de la Patacona, 11 | lat=39.48521 | long=-0.32557 | directions=across from the beach in Alboraya | phone=+34 961 143 611 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-01:30 | price= | image=La Más Bonita Patacona 2.jpg | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Good for breakfast, lunches, fresh juices, coffee and cocktails; this place is especially known for its cakes. There is seating in two areas: on the beach side with a view, or in an interior patio with garden. It is very popular, so if you don't have reservations be prepared to wait awhile. }} * {{eat | name=Bodega Casa Montaña | alt= | url=http://www.emilianobodega.com/ | email=info@emilianobodega.com | address= Carrer de Josep Benlliure, 69 | lat=39.46556 | long=-0.33098 | directions=Poblats Marítims | phone=+34 963 672 314 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 13:00-16:00 20:00-23:30, Sa 12:30-16:00 20:00-23:30, Su and holidays 12:30-16:00 | price=€27 for a set menu | image=Bodega Casa Montaña 1.jpg | lastedit=2015-11-16 | content=Established in 1836, this is the oldest tapas bar in Valencia. All classic dishes here are prepared with locally-sourced ingredients, accompanied by an enormous selection of wines. The setting is informal and friendly. Reservations are recommended and can be made [http://www.emilianobodega.com/reservas/ online]. }} * {{eat | name=Casa Roberto | alt= | url=http://casaroberto.es/ | email= | address=Carrer del Mestre Gozalbo, 19 | lat=39.46487 | long=-0.36896 | directions=Eixample | phone=+34 963 951 528 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 13:00-16:00 20:45-23:00, Su 13:00-16:00 | price=Mains €18-23; 10% gratuity included in the final bill | image=Casa Roberto.jpg | lastedit=2017-10-03 | content=A favourite with Valencians and those wishing to avoid the tourist traps, it serves great traditional rice dishes with a focus on paella. The place is packed at lunch, so it's best to arrive early, or even better, to have a reservation. }} * {{eat | name=La Pepica | alt= | url=http://www.lapepica.com/ | email= | address=Passeig de Neptú, 6 | lat=39.46340 | long=-0.32347 | directions=Poblats Marítims | phone=+34 963 710 366 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 13:00-16:00 20:30-21:00, Su 13:00-16:00 | price= | image=La Pepica Valencia.jpg | lastedit=2015-06-04 | content=Known for paella, this family-run restaurant has been open since 1898, and has served the likes of Ernest Hemingway as well as contemporary and modern celebrities. Reservations are recommended especially on weekends, and can be made [http://www.lapepica.com/como-llegar/solicitar-reserva/ online]. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurante Lienzo | alt=Lienzo Gastrotapas | url=http://www.restaurantelienzo.com/en/ | email=info@restaurantelienzo.com | address=Plaça de Tetuán, 18 | lat=39.47489 | long=-0.36962 | directions=La Xerea | phone=+34 963 521 081 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 13:30-16:00 20:30-23:00, Su 13:30-16:00 | price=Lunch set menu €20 (drink included), gastrotapas menu €30, tasting menu €60 (wine extra) | lastedit=2016-08-14 | content=This modern, creative avant garde restaurant is operated by chef Maria José Martinez, who formerly worked for Michelin-starred chef Quique Dacosta. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurante La Principal | alt= | url=http://www.laprincipalrestaurante.es/home | email= | address=Carrer de Polo y Peyrolón, 5 | lat=39.47175 | long=-0.35588 | directions=Mestalla | phone=+34 963 606 348 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 13:30-15:30 20:30-23:30; closed for the month of August | price=Set menu €31-56 | image=Restaurante La Principal.jpg | lastedit=2016-09-09 | content=The very popular restaurant is known primarily for traditional Valencian rice dishes, and is also a great place for tapas with a very good wine list and excellent service. It's especially busy at lunchtime – reservations recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurante La Salita | alt= | url=http://lasalitarestaurante.com/ | email=lasalitareservas@gmail.com | address=Carrer de Sèneca, 12 | lat=39.47267 | long=-0.34994 | directions=corner of Carrer Yecla | phone=+34 963 817 516 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 14:00-15:30, 21:00-22:30 | price=Tasting menu €60+, wine extra | image=Restaurante La Salita 2.jpg | lastedit=2016-02-29 | content=Te restaurant became famous when master chef Begoña Rodrigo won the first edition of ''Top Chef España'' in 2013. Reservations can be made by email or [https://module.lafourchette.com/es_ES/module/21208-bf472#/107313/dhp online]. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurante Vertical | alt= | url=https://www.restaurantevertical.com/#inicio | email=info@restaurantevertical.com | address=Carrer de Luis García-Berlanga Martí, 19 | lat=39.45607 | long=-0.34587 | directions=top floor of Confortel Aqua 4 | phone=+34 963 303 800 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 13:30-15:30 20:30-23:30 | price=Lunch set menu €55, dinner set menu €70; drinks extra | lastedit=2016-08-29 | content=Operated by chef Jorge de Andrés, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves innovative updates of traditional Valencian cuisine, in a setting with some of the best views of the city. Reservations can be made [https://www.restaurantevertical.com/#reserva online]; free parking (3 hr) available in Centro Comercial Aqua. }} * {{eat | name=Rías Gallegas | alt= | url=http://www.riasgallegas.es/ {{dead link|June 2020|December 2020}} | email= | address=Carrer de Ciril Amorós, 4 | lat=39.46611 | long=-0.37416 | directions=El Pla del Remei | phone=+34 963 512 125 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 12:00-14:30 18:30-22:30, Su M 12:00-14:30 | price=Set menu €35 | lastedit=2015-06-07 | content=Serves traditional cuisine from Galicia. }} * {{eat | name=Ricard Camarena Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.ricardcamarenarestaurant.com/en/ | email=reservas@ricardcamarena.com | address= Carrer del Dr. Sumsi, 4 | lat=39.46349 | long=-0.36953 | directions=Ruzafa | phone=+34 963 355 418 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 13:30-15:30, 20:30-22:30 | price=Tasting menu €75-105, wine extra | image=Ricard Camarena Restaurant 1.jpg | lastedit=2016-02-11 | content=Ricard Camarena's flagship restaurant earned him his third Michelin star in 2012, just three months after opening. Dishes are wildly creative, and guests have a good view of the kitchen to watch the master in action. Reservations can be made by email or [https://module.eltenedor.es/es_ES/module/21906-6fa71#/111140/dhp online]. }} * {{eat | name=RiFF | alt= | url=http://www.restaurante-riff.com/ | email=reservas@restaurante-riff.com | address= Carrer del Comte d'Altea, 18 | lat=39.46567 | long=-0.36855 | directions=Eixample | phone=+34 963 335 353, +34 671 875 975 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 13:30-15:30, 20:30-23:00 | price=Tasting menu €49-65, wine extra | image=Solomillo de ternera lechal ecologico.jpg | lastedit=2015-06-07 | content=Internationally-renowned chef and owner Bernd Knöller earned a Michelin star in 2009. Reservations can be made by phone or [http://www.restaurante-riff.com/reserve online] {{dead link|December 2020}}. Occasional classes and cooking workshops are also offered. }} ==Drink== ===Traditional regional drinks=== [[File:Café del Tiempo (Valencia).JPG|thumb|Café del temps]] * {{drink | name=Aigua de València | alt=Agua de Valencia | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Agua de Valencia | wikidata=Q2166144 | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content='Valencia water' is a very famous mixed drink, invented in 1959 and based on a mix of orange juice and ''cava'', the local sparkling wine. Many modern versions also include gin and vodka as well as sugar. Be careful, as this drink packs a punch! }} * {{drink | name=Orxata | alt=horchata | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Horchata | wikidata=Q2889371 | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=A drink made from tigernut (Valencian: ''xufa'', Spanish: ''chufa''), which was first created during the Moorish period. Being cold and sweet, it is especially popular during the summer months, and can be ordered in ''orxateries'' or ''horchaterias'' as well as in most cafés and bars. When ordering an orxata, you will most probably be asked whether you would like to have a ''fartón'', a small pastry for being dipped in orxata, as well. }} * {{drink | name=Cibada | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=An iced malt drink. }} * {{drink | name=Llima granizada | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=Iced lemonade. }} * {{drink | name=Café del temps | alt=café del tiempo | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=es:Café del tiempo | wikidata=Q5739227 | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=A popular summer drink, this is espresso served with a glass of ice along with sugar and a slice of lemon. Usually sugar is mixed first into the hot espresso, which is then poured over the ice. }} * {{drink | name=Blanc i negre | alt=blanco y negro | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=Iced coffee with leche merengada, which is blend of milk, egg white, sugar, and cinnamon. }} * {{drink | name=Cremaet | alt=| url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=en:Cremat | wikidata=Q20105499 | lastedit=2023-08-07 | content=A popular coffee mixed with burned alcohol (typically rum) that is normally consumed at ''esmorzar'' (the eating that takes place between breakfast and lunch). Its sweetness depends on the time spent burning it (the more burned, the more sweet it is, and the less alcohol percentage it has). }} ===Cafés and horchaterías=== [[File:Horchateria de Santa Catalina en Valencia.jpg|thumb|Horchata and fartons at Horchatería Santa Catalina]] [[File:Horchateria de Santa Catalina en Valencia - 5846742728.jpg|thumb|upright|Interior of Horchatería Santa Catalina]] * {{drink | name=Horchatería Daniel | alt= | url=http://www.horchateria-daniel.es/ | email=info@horchateria-daniel.es | address=Avda l´Orchata, 41 | lat=39.49542 | long=-0.35493 | directions=Alboraia/Alboraya; metro line 3 | phone=+34 961 858 866 | tollfree= | fax= | image=Fartons and icecream at Horchateria Daniel in Alboraia.jpg | hours=Daily 10:00-24:00 | price= | lastedit=2016-01-15 | content=Established in 1949, this is the largest and most well-known horchatería in Alboraia (Spanish: ''Alboraya''), a small agricultural town on the outskirts of Valencia whose primary crop is tiger nuts (''chufa''), the key ingredient in horchata. There is a second branch in the [[Valencia#Budget|Mercat de Colóm]] (listed under 'Eat'). }} * {{drink | name=Horchatería Els Sariers | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer Sarcet, 6 | lat=39.49267 | long=-0.35722 | directions=Benimaclet | phone=+34 963 693 879 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 16:00-22:00, F Sa 11:00-02:30, Su 11:00-23:30 | price= | image=Horchata y fartons (8507237785).jpg | lastedit=2016-08-15 | content=A very large and popular horchatería with artisanal fartóns. Takeaway available. }} * {{drink | name=Horchatería Fabián | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer de Císcar, 5 | lat=39.46743 | long=-0.366484 | directions=El Ensanche | phone=+34 963 349 317 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 13:30-24:00 | price= | image=Horchatería Fabián.jpg | lastedit=2017-03-18 | content=Serves hot chocolate with churros, horchata, granizada, ice cream, and pastries. This is one of the only places which sell bunyols (buñuelos) outside of the Fallas season, and in winter and during Fallas it is so popular the queues can stretch a block down the street. }} * {{drink | name=Horchatería Mari Toñi | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer d'Alboraia, 23 | lat=39.48226 | long=-0.37058 | directions=Benimaclet | phone=+34 963 601 249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 06:00-22:00, Sa Su 07:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-03-18 | content=Along with horchata, this classic Valencian place offers homemade hot chocolate and, during Fallas, bunyols (buñuelos). }} * {{drink | name=Horchatería Santa Catalina | alt= | url=http://www.horchateriasantacatalina.com/ | email= | address=Plaça de Santa Caterina, 6 | lat=39.47383 | long=-0.37625 | directions=El Mercat | phone=+34 963 912 379 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-21:30 | price= | image=Fachada de la Horchateria de Santa Catalina en Valencia.jpg | lastedit=2015-12-21 | content=The oldest horchatería in Valencia, this classic place serves not only horchata with fartons, but hot chocolate, churros, and ice cream. The interior has a cafeteria atmosphere, and is ornamented with Valencian tiles. }} * {{drink | name=Café de las Horas | alt= | url=http://www.cafedelashoras.com/ | email= | address=Carrer del Comte d'Almodóvar, 1 | lat=39.47709 | long=-0.37563 | directions=La Seu | phone=+34 963 917 336 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-02:00, Su 11:00-02:00 | price= | image=Café de las Horas.jpg | lastedit=2016-01-15 | content=This popular café-bar is a good spot for coffee or cocktails with light snacks, in a Baroque-styled interior with eclectic music. }} * {{drink | name=Café Lisboa | alt= | url=http://www.cafelisboavlc.com/ | email=info@cafelisboavlc.com | address=Plaça del Doctor Collado, 9 | lat=39.47443 | long=-0.37759 | directions=in El Mercat, around the corner from the Lonja | phone=+34 963 919 484 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00-01:00 | price= | image=Cafe Lisboa Valencia.jpg | lastedit=2016-01-10 | content=In a charming square which was once the site of Valencia's ''Lonja del Aceite'', or olive oil market. The primary draw is the expansive terrace seating by an olive tree, making this is a good spot for people-watching with a coffee or cocktail. }} * {{drink | name=Café Negrito | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Caf%C3%A9-Negrito-1456075977972104/ | email= | address=Plaça del Negret, 1 | lat=39.47594 | long=-0.37739 | directions=El Carme | phone=+34 963 914 233 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 16:00-03:30 | price= | image=Café Negrito.jpg | lastedit=2015-12-21 | content=Relaxed café with outdoor seating. }} * {{drink | name=Café Rialto | alt= | url=https://caferialto.es/ {{dead link|June 2020|December 2020}} | email=info@caferialto.es | address=Plaça de l'Ajuntament, 17 | lat=39.47098 | long=-0.37626 | directions= | phone=+34 963 940 877 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 08:00-20:00, F 08:00-02:00, Sa 16:00-02:00, Su 16:00-21:00 | price= | image=Edifici Rialto, bar.JPG | lastedit=2017-10-05 | content=A classic café-bar in the historic Rialto Theatre, with a small terrace. It also has a well-priced set lunch menu for €10.50. }} * {{drink | name=Chocolatería Valor | alt= | url=http://www.valor.es/en/ | email= | address=Plaça de la Reina, 20 | lat=39.47380 | long=-0.37513 | directions=La Seu | phone=+34 963 152 198 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 08:30-21:30, F 09:00-01:00, Sa 09:00-01:30, Su 09:00-22:00 | price= | image=Chocolates y churros valor plaza de la reina.jpg | lastedit=2017-10-05 | content=One of two Valencia branches of the [[Villajoyosa]]-based chocolate company, this is a good place for hot chocolate with churros. }} * {{drink | name=Mayan Coffees | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/MayanCoffees | email= | address=Carrer de Murillo, 54 | lat=39.4758416 | long=-0.3835547 | directions=El Carme | phone=+34 722 788 433 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-14:00 15:30-19:00 | price= | lastedit=2017-10-10 | content=The owner roasts his own coffee locally. Very friendly. Relaxed and calm environment in a nice neighborhood. }} * {{drink | name=Ubik Café | alt= | url=http://ubikcafe.blogspot.com.es/ | email=info@ubikcafe.com | address=Carrer del Literat Azorín, 13 | lat=39.46037 | long=-0.37395 | directions=Ruzafa | phone=+34 963 741 255 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M Tu 15:00-24:00, W 12:00-24:00, Th 12:00-00:30, F Sa 12:00-02:00, Su 12:00-24:00 | price= | image=Ubik Café.jpg | lastedit=2017-10-05 | content=The combination bar-café-bookshop has become a favourite haunt in the neighbourhood, with a good selection of craft beers as well as tapas and other light fare. Also hold exhibits and sponsors other cultural events. }} ===Bars and bodegas=== [[File:Bodega Fila Valencia 2.jpg|thumb|upright|Bodega Fila 'El Labrador']] There are many bodegas and tapas bars where you can get typical Spanish dinner for quite good prices. If you arrive early (the Spanish early) at about 20:00 they usually have special offers like ''tercio y tapa'' for about €1. To find them orient more to the parallel streets to '''Carrer de Doctor Manuel Candela'''. Later to drink something occupying the time between dinner and going out there are many bars with different kind of music present. ''Turia'', a toasted lager, is the best-known local beer. It was first made in 1935 but didn't go into full production until 1947, due to the Spanish Civil War. * {{drink | name=Bodega Fila 'El Labrador' | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/bodegaslabrador/ | email= | address=Carrer del Doctor Manuel Candela, 58 | lat=39.47105 | long=-0.34875 | directions=Algirós | phone=+34 963 727 530 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 09:00-15:00 18:00-23:30; closed the month of Aug | price= | image=Bodega Fila Valencia.jpg | lastedit=2017-11-16 | content=This very casual, classic old-school tavern has been operating since 1973, and is popular with students. It is a good place to sample local wines accompanied by simple tapas including jamón, cheese, and sausages. It gets very popular especially later in the evening, so if you want a seat be sure to arrive before 19:30, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings. }} ===Craft beer=== * * {{drink | name=The Market Craft Beer | alt= | url= | email= | address=C/ de les Danses, 5, Ciutat Vella | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-14 | content=Corner pub with a good selection of Spanish brews }} * {{drink | name=Olhöps Craft Beer House | alt= | url=https://www.olhops.com/ | email= | address=Carrer de Sueca, 21 | lat= | long= | directions={{station|Bailén|7}}{{station|Alcant|10}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-14 | content=10 taps including house beer. Micro-pub with bottle shop }} * {{drink | name=Olhöps Craft Beer Lab | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Carrer de Carles Cervera | lat= | long= | directions={{station|Russafa|10}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-14 | content=A further 9 beers a short walk away in Ruzafa. }} * {{drink | name=Valhalla | alt= | url=https://valhalla.beer/ | email= | address=C/ del Gravador Manuel Peleguer, 2, Algirós | lat= | long= | directions={{station|Amistad-Casa de Salud|5|7}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-19 | content= }} ===Nightclubs=== [[File:Marina Beach Club 1.jpg|thumb|The Marina Beach Club – beach club by day, party central by night]] [[File:Bar de L´Umbracle - panoramio.jpg|thumb|L'Umbracle Terraza in the City of Arts and Sciences]] '''Barrio del Carmen''' is a major nightlife destination in Valencia. There are numerous restaurants, bars, and dance joints, which tend to cater to a youngish crowd, in particular along '''Carrer dels Cavallers''' (''Calle Caballeros''). {{marker|name=Plaça del Cedre|type=drink|lat=39.47168 |long=-0.34714|image=Plaça del Cedre, València.JPG}} (''Plaza del Cedro'') is a nice area where all possibilities are given to spend a night partly to complete in less touristic ambiance than in the centre. Additionally there is typical Spanish night-life feeling on the plaza. Different kind of people enjoying the mild Mediterranean clime to sit outside talking, drinking and playing guitar often until the sunrise. Other centres of are night-life are {{marker|name=Plaça de Cánovas del Castillo|type=drink|lat=39.46831|long=-0.36573|image=Plaça de Cánovas del Castillo, València 04.jpg}} (more upscale), along '''Carrer de Joan Llorenç''' (young also, less "alternative"), around the main campus of the '''University of Valencia''' (for students), and increasingly in the area near the beach and port. If you feel like dancing there are four famous pubs where especially at the weekends a lot young people can be found. The entrance is normally for free and they are almost neighbors in '''Carrer de Campoamor'''. The music is more alternative (Rock, Indie, Pop) than general in Spain but it changes depending on the DJ. So just have a look to all of them to find the one you like most. They close at half past three in the morning and if you don't want to be alone maybe the best time to arrive is between half past one and half past two. * {{drink | name=Blue Iguana | alt= | url=http://www.blueiguana.es/ | email= | address=Carrer del Almirante Cadarso, 30 | lat=39.46425 | long=-0.36740 | directions=Eixample | phone=+34 616 941 162 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=F Sa 23:00-06:00 | price= | lastedit=2015-12-21 | content=This is one of the best nightclubs in Valencia. New and old good music all night offered by Dj Moisés. }} * {{listing | type=drink | name=La Fábrica de Hielo | alt=La Fàbrica de Gel | url=https://www.lafabricadehielo.net/ | email= | address=Carrer de Pavia, 37 | lat=39.46957 | long=-0.32506 | directions=Cabanyal | phone=+34 963 682 619 | tollfree= | hours=Tu W 17:00-24:00, Th 17:00-01:00, F 17:00-01:30, Sa 11:00-01:30, Su 11:00-24:00 | price=Many shows are free, or under €10 | lastedit=2018-12-15 | content=The once abandoned ice factory is home to a nightclub and cultural centre, and is a good place for drinks and tapas (some vegetarian). There are nightly concerts by mostly local musicians, with Sundays devoted to jazz. Dogs permitted. }} * {{drink | name=Marina Beach Club | alt= | url=http://marinabeachclub.com/en/el-club/ | email=eventos@marinabeachclub.com | address=Carrer Marina Real Juan Carlos I, s/n | lat=39.46291 | long=-0.32103 | directions= | phone=+34 961 150 007 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 11:00-03:30 | price= | image=Marina Beach Club 1.jpg | lastedit=2018-01-28 | content=Beach club and restaurant by day, this is a popular music hotspot at night with live performances and visiting international DJs. }} * {{drink | name=No Hay Nada Mejor Que 27 Amigos | alt= | url=http://27amigos.com/ {{dead link|August 2020|December 2020}} | email= | address=Carrer de la Reina, 186 | lat=39.47094 | long=-0.32816 | directions=Cabanyal | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Th-Sa 22:00-03:30, Su 19:30-24:00 | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-12-15 | content=A classic old-school bar in a 1920s-era house. Has nightly musical acts in a range of genres, with electronic music on Saturdays and jazz sessions on Sundays. }} * {{drink | name=Radio City | alt= | url=http://radiocityvalencia.es/en/ | email= | address=Carrer de Santa Teresa, 19-2 | lat=39.47464 | long=-0.38138 | directions=El Carme: 2 blocks off Plaça del Tossal | phone=+34 963 914 151 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=22:00-03:30 | price= | lastedit=2015-12-21 | content=A popular bar-cum-club with a crowded dance floor playing a variety of danceable world music. The crowd is mixed locals and travellers, mostly under 30. Aggressive bouncers. }} * {{drink | name=Sala Matisse | alt= | url=http://www.salamatisse.es/ | email= | address=Carrer de Campoamor, 60 | lat=39.47069 | long=-0.34655 | directions=Ciutat Jardí | phone=+34 963 555 444 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 20:00-03:00 | price= | lastedit=2015-12-21 | content= }} * {{drink | name=El Tornillo | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/eltornillobar | email= | address=Carrer de Campoamor, 42 | lat=39.47116 | long=-0.34801 | directions=Ciutat Jardí | phone=+34 639 403 148 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-Sa 22:00-03:30 | price= | lastedit=2015-12-21 | content= }} * {{drink | name=L'Umbracle Terraza | alt= | url=http://umbracleterraza.com/umbracle/inicio/ | email=contacto@salamandraonline.com | address=Av del Saler, 5 | lat=39.45523 | long=-0.35376 | directions=City of Arts and Sciences | phone=+34 671 668 000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Th-Sa 00:00-07:30 | price=No cover charge with the Valencia Tourist Card; drinks €10+ | lastedit=2017-06-23 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Velvet Club | alt=Velvet Underground | url= | email= | address=Carrer de Campoamor, 58 | lat=39.47079 | long=-0.34693 | directions=Ciutat Jardí | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=F Sa 16:00-04:00 | price= | lastedit=2015-12-21 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Wah Wah Club | alt= | url=http://www.wahwahclub.es/inicio {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=programacion@wahwahclub.es | address=Carrer de Campoamor, 52 | lat=39.47078 | long=-0.34706 | directions=Ciutat Jardí | phone=+34 963 563 942 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 20:30-03:00 | price= | image=Wah Wah Club.jpg | lastedit=2018-01-28 | content= }} ==Sleep== Staying in or near Old Town means you will hardly need transport, unless you go to the beach. ===Budget=== ====Hostels==== * {{sleep | name=Hôme Backpackers Hostel Valencia | alt=Feetup Home Backpackers Valencia | url=http://www.homehostelsvalencia.com/backpackers-hostel-valencia/presentation/ | email=info@likeathome.net | address=Plaça de Vicent Iborra, s/n | lat=39.47696 | long=-0.38096 | directions= | phone=+34 963 913 797 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:00-24:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=€14 (dorm bed), from €51 (room w/shared toilet) | image=Safari Room.jpg | lastedit=2016-09-19 | content=In town centre and specialised in backpackers and groups. The cheapest one in Valencia, and claims to be the 'best'. Free Wi-Fi and bed linens, wheelchair accessible, nonsmoking rooms, free Wi-Fi. Towels €1. }} * {{sleep | name=Innsa Hostel | alt= | url=http://www.innsahostel.com | email=info@innsahostel.com | address=Carrer de Baix, 48 | lat=39.47827 | long=-0.37870 | directions=Carmen | phone=+34 963 917 751 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=12:00-22:00 | checkout=09:00-11:00 | price=From €38 (room w/shared toilet) | image=Pati de la casa Innsa, València.JPG | lastedit=2016-09-19 | content=Free Wi-Fi, has onsite bar/restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Purple Nest Hostel | alt=Hostels Valencia Spain | url=http://www.nesthostelsvalencia.com/purple-nest-hostel-valencia/ | email=info@purplenesthostel.com | address=Plaça de Tetuán, 5 | lat=39.47461 | long=-0.37009 | directions= | phone=+34 963 532 561 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 427 128 | checkin=14:00-24:00 | checkout=05:00-11:00 | price=From €43 (dorm bed) | image=Purple Nest Hostels.jpg | lastedit=2023-07-08 | content=A good budget hostel in Valencia hostel in the city centre. Has free Wi-Fi, family room, rooftop terrace and barbecue, and bar. }} * {{sleep | name=Red Nest Hostel | alt=Hostels Valencia Spain | url=http://www.nesthostelsvalencia.com/red-nest-hostel-valencia/ | email=info@rednesthostel.com | address=Carrer de la Pau, 36 | lat=39.47297 | long=-0.37192 | directions= | phone=+34 963 427 168 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 427 128 | checkin=14:00 | checkout=07:00-11:00 | price=€40 (dorm bed) | lastedit=2023-07-08 | content=A good budget hostel Valencia in the city centre. Has a large kitchen free lockers, free bed linen, and free Wi-Fi; towels €1. }} * {{sleep | name=The River Hostel | alt= | url=http://riverhostelvalencia.com/en/ | email=hello@riverhostelvalencia.com | address=Plaça del Temple, 6 | lat=39.47606 | long=-0.37069 | directions= | phone=+34 963 913 955 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:30 | checkout=11:00 | price=€10-40 | image=River hostel.png | lastedit=2018-02-17 | content=Has nonsmoking rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hr front desk. }} * {{sleep | name=Valencia Lounge Hostel | alt= | url=http://www.valencialoungehostel.com/ | email=info@valencialoungehostel.com | address=Carrer dels Cadirers, 11 | lat=39.475605 | long=-0.378862 | directions= | phone=+34 963 923 425 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Doubles €39+ | lastedit=2017-02-17 | content=11 rooms (double, triple, quadruple) with balconies, aesthetically decorated, no en-suite bathrooms, in a quiet alleyway. }} ====Hotels==== * {{sleep | name=Hospedería del Pilar | alt= | url=http://www.hospederiadelpilar.com/en {{dead link|August 2020|December 2020}} | email=info@hospederiadelpilar.com | address=Plaça del Mercat, 19 | lat=39.47510 | long=-0.37969 | directions=Mercat | phone=+34 963 916 600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=12:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=Doubles €36-40 | image=Edificios de la Hospedería del Pilar.jpg | lastedit=2018-02-17 | content=Operating since 1886, the hostal has nonsmoking rooms with private baths, and a 24-hr desk. Free Wi-Fi. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Beleret | alt= | url=http://www.beleret.com/EN/hotel.html | email=reservas@beleret.com | address=Carrer del Campament, 80 | lat=39.50059 | long=-0.42525 | directions=Benimàmet, near the Les Carolines metro stop | phone=+34 963 640 505 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 640 303 | checkin=14:00-24:00 | checkout=05:00-12:00 | price=Doubles €44+, breakfast €6 | image=Room in hotel Beleret - panoramio.jpg | lastedit=2018-02-17 | content=On the northern outskirts of the city, the hotel has nonsmoking rooms, an onsite restaurant and bar, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request, free nearby parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Pensión El Rincón | alt=Hostal al Rincon | url=http://www.hostalelrincon.es/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=Carrer de la Carda, 11 | lat=39.47496 | long=-0.38044 | directions=Mercat | phone=+34 963 916 083 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:00-22:00 | checkout=07:00-12:30 | price=€25 (single room w/shared toilet), from €35 (room w/private toilet) | lastedit=2016-09-19 | content=These guys claim to have been around for over 400 years! Free Wi-Fi, safe parking, nonsmoking, pets permitted (no extra charge). }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Ayre Hotel Astoria Palace | alt= | url=http://www.ayrehoteles.com/en/hotel-astoria-palace/ | email=astoriapalace@ayrehoteles.com | address=Plaça Rodrigo Botet, 5 | lat=39.47131 | long=-0.37504 | directions= | phone=+34 963 981 000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=€77+, breakfast €12 | image=Hotel Astoria Palace in Valencia.jpg | lastedit=2016-09-15 | content=Has an onsite fitness centre, bar and restaurant. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, no parking available. }} * {{sleep | name=Bed & Breakfast Almirante | url=http://www.bedandbreakfastalmirante.com | email=info@bedandbreakfastalmirante.com | address=Almirante, 3 | lat=39.47605 | long=-0.372515 | directions= | phone=+34 963 916 551 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 925 501 | hours= | price= | checkin=13:00 | checkout=11:00 | content=In a quiet area of the centre of Valencia, 2 minutes' walk from the cathedral. }} * {{sleep | name=Eurostars Gran Valencia | alt=formerly Hotel Ibis | url=http://www.eurostarsgranvalencia.com/EN/hotel.html | email=info@eurostarsgranvalencia.com | address=Carrer de la Vall d'Aiora, 3 | lat=39.49161 | long=-0.39827 | directions=Benicalap, near the Beniferri metro stop | phone=+34 963 050 800 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=From €75 including breakfast | image=Edificis de l'avinguda de les Corts Valencianes des el carrer de la Safor.JPG | lastedit=2016-09-13 | content=A modern hotel with gym, fitness centre, and rooftop pool, as well as onsite restaurant and bar. Free Wi-Fi available; private parking €12/day. }} * {{sleep | name=Expo Hotel Valencia | alt= | url=http://expohotelvalencia.expohotels.com/en/ | email= | address=Avda Pío XII, 4 | lat=39.48001 | long=-0.39118 | directions=Nuevo Centro | phone=+34 963 033 600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=07:00-12:00 | price=€52+, breakfast €12 | lastedit=2016-09-14 | content=Has a roof-top swimming pool and onsite bar/restaurant, with free Wi-Fi. Private parking available for €19/day. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express Valencia-Ciudad Las Ciencias | alt= | url=http://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/gb/en/valencia/vlcsp/hoteldetail | email=recepcion@expresshivalencia.com | address=Carrer de l'Escritor Rafael Ferreres, 22 | lat=39.45124 | long=-0.35834 | directions=near the City of Arts and Sciences | phone=+34 963 162 530 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=16:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=From €55 including breakfast | lastedit=2016-09-14 | content=Limited service hotel part of the IHG family, with 100 rooms. Has a bar, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €14.50/day. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal Antigua Morellana | alt= | url=http://www.hostalam.com/en/ | email=info@hostalam.com | address=Carrer d'En Bou, 2 | lat=39.47461 | long=-0.37723 | directions=Ciutat Vella, near the Lonja and Mercat Central | phone=+34 963 915 773 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:00-24:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=Doubles €50-85, depending on season | lastedit=2017-04-13 | content=A family-run operation with 18 rooms. Free Wi-Fi, paid public parking nearby. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Ad Hoc Monumental | alt= | url=http://www.adhochoteles.com/en/ | email= | address=Carrer de Boix, 4 | lat=39.47723 | long=-0.37200 | directions= | phone=+34 963 919 140 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=€80+, breakfast €13 | image=Hotel Ad Hoc.jpg | lastedit=2016-09-15 | content=In a tastefully decorated 19th-century mansion in a residential area. Free Wi-Fi, airport shuttle (by reservation), pets accepted; no parking available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Dimar | alt= | url=http://www.hotel-dimar.com/en/ | email=reservas@hotel-dimar.com | address=Gran Via del Marqués del Túria, 80 | lat=39.46832 | long=-0.36495 | directions=Gran Via | phone=+34 963 951 030 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 951 926 | checkin=16:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=€72+, breakfast €13 | image=Hotel Dimar.jpg | lastedit=2016-09-13 | content=A modern hotel with an onsite bar/restaurant, gym, and free Wi-Fi. Public parking nearby (€14/day). Pets permitted on request. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Miramar | alt= | url=http://www.petitmiramar.com/en/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=info@petitmiramar.com | address=Passeig de Neptú, 32 | lat=39.46431 | long=-0.32359 | directions=Poblats Maritims | phone=+34 963 715 142 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 559 181 | checkin=14:00-24:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=€56+ | lastedit=2017-01-16 | content=Has non-smoking rooms, an onsite restaurant, pool, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €20/day. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel NH Valencia Las Artes | alt= | url=http://www.nh-hotels.com/hotel/nh-valencia-las-artes | email=nhlasartes@nh-hotels.com | address=Avinguda de l'Institut Obrer de Valèncià, 28 | lat=39.45566 | long=-0.35741 | directions=Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències | phone=+34 916 008 146 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 351 310 | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=€68+, breakfast €19 | lastedit=2017-01-16 | content=Has non-smoking rooms, and onsite restaurant, fitness centre, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request; private parking €20/day. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Villacarlos | alt= | url=http://www.hotelvillacarlos.com/EN/hotel.html {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=hotelvillacarlos@hotelvillacarlos.com | address=Avinguda del Port, 60 | lat=39.46656 | long=-0.35528 | directions=Camins al Grau | phone=+34 963 375 025 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 375 074 | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=€50+ | image=Hotel Villacarlos Valencia.jpg | lastedit=2016-09-19 | content=Has non-smoking rooms and free Wi-Fi. Private parking €16/day. }} * {{sleep | name=ILUNION Aqua 4 | alt=formerly Confortel Aqua 4 | url=http://en.ilunionaqua4.com/ | email=reservasaqua4@ilunionhotels.com | address=Carrer de Luis García-Berlanga Martí, 19-21 | lat=39.45600 | long=-0.34585 | directions=near the City of Arts and Sciences | phone=+34 963 187 100 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=€74+ | image=Confortel Aqua 4 Valencia 2.jpg | lastedit=2016-09-13 | content=Has an onsite restaurant, fitness centre, non-smoking rooms, and free Wi-Fi. Public parking available (€14/day). }} * {{sleep | name=Meliá Valencia | alt=formerly Hotel Hilton Valencia | url=https://www1.melia.com/en/hotels/spain/valencia/melia-valencia/index.html | email=melia.valencia@melia.com | address=Avda de Les Corts Valencianes, 52 | lat=39.49457 | long=-0.40083 | directions=directly across from the Palacio de Congresos in Benicalap | phone=+34 963 030 000 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 030 001 | checkin=15:00 | checkout=07:00-12:00 | price=€80+, breakfast included | image=Hilton Melia Valencia.jpg | lastedit=2016-09-15 | content=In a modern building, facilities include a spa, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Private parking available (€17/day). }} * {{sleep | name=Orange Habitaciones | alt= | url=http://orangevalencia.com/en/home/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=info@orangevalencia.com | address=Carrer del Trinquet de Cavallers, 3 | lat=39.47398 | long=-0.37277 | directions=Xerea | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=13:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=€50/single | content=A nice boutique hotel 15 minutes' walk from the centre. Rooms are decorated in orange, which gives you the feeling of Valencia as soon as you check in. }} * {{sleep | name=La Novieta Boutique Hotel | alt=La Novieta | url=https://www.lanovieta.com/ | email=hello@lanovieta.com | address=Carrer de Vicente Lleó, 25 | lat=39.45823 | long=-0.37009 | directions= | phone=+34 962 62 56 78 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=11:00 | price=From €140, breakfast included | lastedit=2023-11-11 | content=A retro-chic, intimate & adults-only boutique hotel. Situated in a modernist house that was built in 1924, the hotel underwent a complete renovation in 2023. It features four en-suite bedrooms, each equipped with free Wi-Fi and super king beds. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Hotel Balneario Las Arenas at night - Valencia.jpg|thumb|Hotel Balneario Las Arenas Resort]] [[File:Hotel Westin, Valencia, España, 2014-06-29, DD 32.JPG|thumb|The Westin Valencia]] * {{sleep | name=Barceló Valencia | alt= | url=http://www.barcelovalencia.com | email=valencia@barcelo.com | address=Avda de França, 11 | lat=39.46085 | long=-0.35273 | directions=Camins al Grau, near the City of Arts and Sciences | phone=+34 963 306 344 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:00-24:00 | checkout=05:00-12:00 | price=From €95 including breakfast | image=Barceló Hotel.jpg | lastedit=2016-09-13 | content=Has an outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, and non-smoking rooms as well as free Wi-Fi. Private parking available (€16/day). }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Balneario Las Arenas Resort | alt= | url=http://www.hotelvalencialasarenas.com/en/ | email=reservas@hotel-lasarenas.com | address=Carrer d'Eugènia Viñes, 22-24 | lat=39.46647 | long=-0.32405 | directions= | phone=+34 963 120 600 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=€216+ | image=Hotel Balneario Las Arenas at night - Valencia.jpg | lastedit=2016-09-13 | content=A five-star hotel facing the sea. Has two onsite restaurants, an outdoor pool, spa, and gym. Offers an airport shuttle (with surcharge), free Wi-Fi, and parking (€19/day). }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Hospes Palau de la Mar | alt= | url=http://www.hospes.com/en/valencia-palau_mar/ | email=reservations@hospes.com | address=Avinguda de Navarro Reverter, 14 | lat=39.47085 | long=-0.36662 | directions=Eixample | phone=+34 963 162 884 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=€135+, breakfast €24 | lastedit=2017-01-16 | content=A restored 19th-century palace with non-smoking rooms, Turkish bath, fitness centre, onsite restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Pets permitted on request. Private parking €26/day; electric car charger available. }} * {{sleep | name=MYR Hotel Plaza Mercado & Spa | alt= | url=http://myrhotelplazamercado.com/?lang=en | email=recepcion@myrhotelplazamercado.com | address=Plaça del Mercat, 45 | lat=39.47342 | long=-0.37763 | directions=Ciutat Vella, near the Lonja and Mercat Central | phone=+34 963 153 367 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 931 824 | checkin=16:00-24:00 | checkout=07:00-12:00 | price=Doubles €90+ | lastedit=2017-10-14 | content=A small hotel with suites. Has free Wi-Fi, nonsmoking rooms, and onsite restaurant. Private parking €20/day. }} * {{sleep | name=One Shot Palacio Reina Victoria 04 | alt= | url=http://www.hoteloneshotpalacioreinavictoria04.com/ | email=palacioreinavictoria04@oneshothotels.com | address=Carrer de les Barques, 4 | lat=39.47025 | long=-0.37552 | directions=near the Plaça de l'Ajuntament | phone=+34 963 513 984 | tollfree= | fax=+34 961 284 782 | checkin=14:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=€100, including breakfast | image=Hotel Reina Victoria (1910) de Luis Ferreres Soler.jpg | lastedit=2016-09-15 | content=In a building from the late 19th century, the hotel has 85 rooms and offers free Wi-Fi and an onsite restaurant. Public parking is available (€24/day). }} * {{sleep | name=The Westin Valencia | alt= | url=http://www.westinvalencia.com/en | email= | address=Carrer d'Amadeu de Savoia, 16 | lat=39.47297 | long=-0.36119 | directions=Mestalla | phone=+34 963 625 900 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=12:00 | price=€209+ | image=Hotel Westin, Valencia, España, 2014-06-29, DD 32.JPG | lastedit=2016-09-13 | content=This modernist building has been converted into an exclusive luxury hotel, with marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and art. Facilities include a spa, indoor pool and Turkish bath, fitness centre, two onsite restaurants, and a bar. Free Wi-Fi available throughout the building; pets permitted. Private parking available (€22/day). }} == Connect == [[File:Creuer de l'antic Hospital General de València, actual Biblioteca Pública.JPG | thumb | 300px | Biblioteca Pública]] As of June 2022, Valencia has 4G from MasMovil/Yoigo, and 5G from Movistar, Orange and Vodafone. Wifi is widely available in public places. * {{listing | name=Biblioteca Pública | alt=Public Library | url=http://www.bibliotecaspublicas.es/valencia/ | email=bpv@gva.es | address=Carrer de l'Hospital, 13 | lat=39.47032 | long=-0.38173 | directions= | phone=+34 962 564 130 | tollfree= | fax=+34 962 564 131 | hours=Sep-Jul: M-F 09:00-20:30; Aug: M-F 09:00-14:00 | price= | wikipedia=Public Library of Valencia | image=Creuer de l'antic Hospital General de València, actual Biblioteca Pública.JPG | wikidata=Q4687025 | lastedit=2016-11-27 | content=Housed in a former public hospital built in the late 15th century, the library carries a number of international periodicals. For visitors, free internet and Wi-Fi is available; for either, visitors must register and present a passport at the front desk. For Wi-Fi access, visitors are given a password for unlimited duration, with access throughout the building. Computer terminals must be reserved in advance and can be used for a maximum of 50 minutes. }} == Stay safe == Valencia is quite possibly among the safest cities in Spain and Europe. As with Madrid and Barcelona, streets are filled with people at all times, even deep into the night. Valencia also has a decent police presence. The only neighborhoods that may warrant extra precaution are '''Ciutat Jardí''', '''El Cabanyal,''' and '''Aiora,''' in the east of the city. They are mostly deserted at night, but muggings are not unheard of. The city's railway stations and certain metro stations might attract beggars and drunkards, but simply saying no will be enough. The Falles celebrations attract thousands of people every year. Watch out for pickpockets. ==Cope== * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States Consular Agency | alt= | url=https://es.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/u-s-consular-offices/consular-agency-valencia/ | email=valenciacons@state.gov | address=Carrer del Dr Romagosa, 1, 2ª planta, puerta J | lat=39.47112 | long=-0.37238 | directions= | phone=+34 963 516 973 | tollfree= | fax=+34 963 529 565 | hours=M-F 10:00-14:00 by appt only; closed on US and Spanish holidays | price= | lastedit=2017-01-16 | content= }} ==Go next== ===Outskirts=== * [[Albufera Natural Park]] — A fresh water lake which is part of the protected natural space, composed of the lake and surrounding marshy areas, as well as the pinewood and sandy dunes and beaches of El Saler. Rice is cultivated in the surrounding area of the lake. The Albufera also hosts many interesting varieties of migratory birds. The village of El Palmar is also a good place, if not the best, to try some paella or other local dishes. * [[Manises]] – 15&nbsp;km northwest of Valencia, it is not only the site of Valencia's airport, but is also an important centre for pottery. The city can be easily reached by Valencia's metro lines 3 and 5. * [[Paterna]] – This bedroom community 5&nbsp;km to the northwest is known for its cave dwellings, Moorish tower, and Moors and Christians Festival. * [[El Puig]] – 15 km north of Valencia, this village is best known for its impressive Gothic monastery, and is easily visited as a half-day trip from the city. * [[Torrent]] – 9 km southwest of Valencia, the second largest city in Valencia province has a couple of interesting sights. ===Further afield=== * Rent a car and do a day trip to any number of picturesque villages or small cities in the region, including '''Chulilla''', '''Sot de Chera''', [[Xàtiva]], and [[Sagunto]], among others. * '''La Tomatina''', hosted by nearby [[Buñol]] on the last Wednesday of August. A festival that involves thousands of participants throwing ripe tomatoes at each other. Make sure you wear clothes that you can throw out after wards, as it gets very messy. * [[Cullera]], is the nearest beach resort from the city, apart from the more aimed at locals Pobla de Farnals, and worth a day visit from Valencia if you have time. It is settled down an isolated mountain (with a big white sign saying "Cullera" on it) beside a beautiful bay. It has crowded and quiet beaches. The most quiet ones are along the lighthouse road. There is also a naturist beach right North of Cullera, in Playa del Dossel, with a tricky road to access it. There is a castle on top of the mountain from which to enjoy stunning views. * [[Gandía|Gandia]], 65 km south of Valencia and easily accessible by regional train, is the historical capital of the ancient Dukedom of Gandia, origin of the infamous Borgia (Borja) family, whose Ducal Palace is worth the visit, and birthplace of ''fideuà''. * [[Montanejos]], with its scenic mountains, gorges, and hot springs. {{IsPartOf|Valencia (province)}} {{guidecity}} {{Geo|39.466667|-0.383333}} qyxdb6dwnkt4bnsojubw5lpgmdv7h20 0 37824 5091114 5089206 2025-07-11T01:05:43Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* See */ grammar and (in)definite article conflict 5091114 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner|disambig=yes|unesco=yes|Venice new banner.jpg}} {{printDistricts}} '''Venice''' ([[Italian phrasebook|Italian]]: ''Venezia''; Venetian: ''Venexia'') is a sanctuary on a lagoon that is virtually the same as it was 600 years ago, which adds to the fascinating character. Venice has decayed since its heyday and suffers from [[overtourism]], but the romantic charm remains. It is also known as the birthplace of composers Tomaso Albinoni and Antonio Vivaldi, and of the poets and opera librettists Apostolo Zeno and Carlo Goldoni. Venice and its lagoon are a [[UNESCO World Heritage site]]. It used to be an independent republic, and remains one of Italy's most important cities, with a quarter million inhabitants. Venice is also known as the home of the world's first international film festival, founded in 1932. ==Districts== {{mapframe|show=districtmap|name=Map of Venice's six historic ''sestieri'' (districts)}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|group=districtmap|wikidata=Q52423,Q844263|fill=#487db8|title=[[Venice/Cannaregio|Cannaregio]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|group=districtmap|wikidata=Q52425,Q2118904|fill=#b569b5|title=[[Venice/Castello|Castello]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|group=districtmap|wikidata=Q52422,Q52435|fill=#6e73e2|title=[[Venice/Dorsoduro|Dorsoduro]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|group=districtmap|wikidata=Q52429|fill=#7ad88d|title=[[Venice/San Polo|San Polo]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|group=districtmap|wikidata=Q52428,Q1758658|fill=#e7ef5d|title=[[Venice/Santa Croce|Santa Croce]]}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|group=districtmap|wikidata=Q52427,Q126327|fill=#de725d|title=[[Venice/San Marco|San Marco]]}} {{regionlist | region1name=[[Venice/San Marco|San Marco]] | region1color=#de725d | region1description=Sharpen your elbows and get to stepping. '''St Mark's Basilica''', '''Doge's Palace''', and half a dozen other top sights are crammed in to '''Piazza San Marco'''. If you'd like a good picture (or even a place to sit!), try visiting at dawn or during the winter months. | region2name=[[Venice/San Polo|San Polo]] | region2color=#7ad88d | region2description=One of the oldest parts of the city&mdash;and featuring the '''Rialto Bridge'''&mdash;one of its most visited. Several museums and churches hold dozens of antiquities and artistic masterworks. | region3name=[[Venice/Dorsoduro|Dorsoduro]] | region3color=#6e73e2 | region3description=It consists of two parts separated by the Giudecca Canal. It is home to the '''Guggenheim''' and '''Gallerie Accademia Venezia''', some of the finest museums in Italy. This area also plays host to many students, so those seeking budget conscious amenities may have more luck here. | region4name=[[Venice/Castello|Castello]] | region4color=#b569b5 | region4description=Several captivating palaces, basilica, and museums all live within the "tail of the fish". On your walk from San Marco, pass by the '''Bridge of Sighs''' to catch a glimpse of a convicts last view. | region5name=[[Venice/Cannaregio|Cannaregio]] | region5color=#487db8 | region5description=A more residential neighbourhood, the city's historic '''Jewish ghetto''' is found here as well as the nearby island of '''San Michele Cemetery'''. Receives fewer visitors than neighbouring areas, although that's not saying much. | region6name=[[Venice/Santa Croce|Santa Croce]] | region6color=#e7ef5d | region6description=Transit oriented Santa Croce is where Venetian visitors will arrive by bus, car or tram. The rail station is just across the Grand Canal in Cannaregio. The park and churches found here are lovely, while the museums cover mostly non-Italian work. }} Many visitors also pay a visit to '''[[Mestre]]''' (mainland Venice) and some of the neighboring islands in [[Metropolitan Venice]] during their stay. * '''[[Venice/Burano|Burano]]''' &mdash; Popular with artists and known for its many small, brightly painted houses. * '''[[Venice/Murano|Murano]]''' &mdash; Filled with quaint shops and restaurants, Murano is known far and wide for its high quality glass making. * '''[[Venice/Lido|Lido]]''' &mdash; Venice's long skinny beach, Lido offers a respite from more touristy and expensive areas. * '''[[Venice/Torcello|Torcello]]''' &mdash; Sparsely populated and accessible by ''vaporetto'', this island offers a unique window into Venetian life. == Understand == [[File:Venezia Campanile di San Marco 004.JPG|thumb|upright|Bell tower of Saint Mark]] === Orientation === [[Metropolitan Venice]] has nearly a million inhabitants, and includes coastal and inland towns such as [[Bibione]], [[Chioggia]] and [[Eraclea]]. The ''comune'' (municipality) of Venice lies at the coast of northern [[Italy]]. It is made up of many islands in the Venetian Lagoon and a stretch of ''terraferma'' (mainland). The comune is divided into six boroughs, the most famous of which (known as ''Venezia Insulare'') comprises the historic city of Venice as well as the islands of Giudecca, [[Venice/Murano|Murano]], [[Burano]], [[Torcello]], [[Mazzorbo]] and [[Sant'Erasmo]]. [[Lido]] and [[Mestre]] are other popular areas of the comune. The historic city is divided into six ''sestieri'' (districts): [[Venice/Cannaregio|Cannaregio]], [[Venice/Castello|Castello]], [[Venice/Dorsoduro|Dorsoduro]], [[Venice/San Polo|San Polo]], [[Venice/Santa Croce|Santa Croce]] and finally [[Venice/San Marco|San Marco]], where the main monuments and sights are. Each sestiere uses separate house numbers, however they are ''not'' allocated in a specific pattern. === History === {{See also|Medieval and Renaissance Italy|Marco Polo}} The '''Most Serene Republic of Venice''' dates back to 827, when a Byzantine Duke moved its seat to what is now known as the Rialto, and for the following 970 years, it prospered on trade (especially from the [[Silk Road]]) and under the rule of a Roman-style Senate headed by the '''Doge'''. Eventually, the Republic of Venice grew into a powerful city-state, and the cradle of [[Medieval and Renaissance Italy|Italian Renaissance]]. In the late 15th century, the [[Ottoman Empire]]'s expansion around the Mediterranean, new routes on the high seas shifted commerce to the Atlantic, demoting Venice's political status. The city remains a centre for the arts. One of the significant events in the history of Venice was the opening of the first public opera house in 1637, which allowed members of the general public (those who could afford to pay for the tickets) to enjoy what was once court entertainment reserved for the aristocracy, thus allowing the genre of opera to flourish. Venice was an important destination of the [[Grand Tour]] from the 17th century. In 1797, the city was conquered by Napoleon, a blow from which it never recovered. The city was soon absorbed into [[Austro-Hungarian Empire|Austria-Hungary]], then ping-ponged back and forth between Austria and a nascent Italy, but Venice is still a monument to the glory days of the Renaissance, and historical culture still throbs powerfully in the old Italians' veins. === Climate === {{Weather box | metric first=y | single line=y | Jan high C = 6.6 | Feb high C = 9.6 | Mar high C = 14.5 | Apr high C = 20.1 | May high C = 23.5 | Jun high C = 25.9 | Jul high C = 27.7 | Aug high C = 27.5 | Sep high C = 24.4 | Oct high C = 20.0 | Nov high C = 12.6 | Dec high C = 7.4 | year high C = 17.2 | Jan mean C = 3.3 | Feb mean C = 4.7 | Mar mean C = 8.3 | Apr mean C = 12.0 | May mean C = 17.1 | Jun mean C = 20.5 | Jul mean C = 23.0 | Aug mean C = 22.6 | Sep mean C = 18.9 | Oct mean C = 13.8 | Nov mean C = 7.8 | Dec mean C = 4.0 | year mean C = 13.0 | Jan low C = −0.1 | Feb low C = 0.8 | Mar low C = 5.1 | Apr low C = 9.8 | May low C = 13.7 | Jun low C = 16.1 | Jul low C = 18.3 | Aug low C = 17.7 | Sep low C = 14.3 | Oct low C = 9.6 | Nov low C = 4.0 | Dec low C = 0.6 | year low C = 8.8 | Jan precipitation mm = 47.0 | Feb precipitation mm = 48.3 | Mar precipitation mm = 48.8 | Apr precipitation mm = 70.0 | May precipitation mm = 66.0 | Jun precipitation mm = 78.0 | Jul precipitation mm = 63.9 | Aug precipitation mm = 64.8 | Sep precipitation mm = 72.0 | Oct precipitation mm = 73.5 | Nov precipitation mm = 65.5 | Dec precipitation mm = 50.6 | year precipitation mm = 748.4 | Jan humidity = 81 | Feb humidity = 77 | Mar humidity = 75 | Apr humidity = 75 | May humidity = 73 | Jun humidity = 74 | Jul humidity = 71 | Aug humidity = 72 | Sep humidity = 75 | Oct humidity = 77 | Nov humidity = 79 | Dec humidity = 81 | year humidity = 75.8 | unit precipitation days = 1.0 mm | Jan precipitation days = 6.0 | Feb precipitation days = 5.2 | Mar precipitation days = 5.7 | Apr precipitation days = 8.3 | May precipitation days = 8.2 | Jun precipitation days = 8.6 | Jul precipitation days = 5.9 | Aug precipitation days = 6.1 | Sep precipitation days = 5.9 | Oct precipitation days = 6.7 | Nov precipitation days = 5.8 | Dec precipitation days = 5.9 | Jan sun = 80.6 | Feb sun = 107.4 | Mar sun = 142.6 | Apr sun = 174.0 | May sun = 229.4 | Jun sun = 243.0 | Jul sun = 288.3 | Aug sun = 257.3 | Sep sun = 198.0 | Oct sun = 151.9 | Nov sun = 87.0 | Dec sun = 77.5 | year sun = 2037.0 | source 1 = [http://clima.meteoam.it/AtlanteClim2/pdf/(105)Venezia%20Tessera.pdf MeteoAM (sun and humidity 1961–1990) Venezia/Tessera] | source 2 = [http://clima.meteoam.it/viewClino.php?type=File&station=105&name_station=Venezia%20Tessera MeteoAM Tabella CLINO] | date = April 2014 }} Venice has a humid-subtropical climate with hot summers and cool winters. For those who don't enjoy the heat, July and August may be the worst time to visit: it's sometimes very hot and often humid, there are mosquitoes and occasional infestations of flies, and there are a ''lot'' of tourists and large crowds. Mid to late spring and early to mid autumn are probably best, a compromise between temperature (expect 10-25°C) and the tourist load. Between November and January, you may manage to feel you have Venice all to yourself, an interesting experience. Beware of the weather during the winter months: it can be quite chilly, windy, and damp. Fog is an additional hazard if you are driving in or out, doubly so in the unlikely chance that you will pilot a boat. But if you've never been to Venice, it's better to go in summer than not to go. You won't regret it. Many cities are far worse in summer. Although Venice has no cars, diesel motors used by boats contribute to less than stellar air quality. '''''Acqua alta''''' (high water) has become a fact of life in Venice. The lagoon water level occasionally rises above the level of the squares and streets, flooding them. This can happen several times a year, at irregular intervals, usually in the colder months. ''Acqua alta'' usually lasts a few hours and coincides with high tide. You'll see raised walkways in side alleys ready to be pulled out when ''acqua alta'' hits. When the city begins to flood, sirens will sound to warn residents and businesses. If you speak fluent Italian, tune into news programs since their predictions of the times the flood begins and ends are usually accurate. Normally, the tide rises and falls in six-hour cycles. You can get an ''acqua alta'' map at the tourist offices either at the railway station or St Mark's Square. This will show you the higher, dry routes and the ones with walkways set up during the various flood alerts. There is a tide measuring station at the Rialto vaporetto piers, and a noticeboard at the base of the Campanile in the Piazza San Marco that shows a live tide reading and predictions for the next few days. ===Tourist information === * [https://www.veneziaunica.it/en Venice tourism] website == Get in == {{Mapframe|name=Important transfer points|show=go}} Water plays a crucial role in transportation, as Venice is on a lagoon. Whichever way you arrive, the last part of your journey will be on foot from the nearest waterbus/watertaxi jetty. Bear this in mind when choosing your hotel location and route to it, especially if you need to carry bags along the narrow streets. (The sound of hard suitcase wheels on cobblestones is annoying, and they can damage marble steps.) A lot of the higher priced hotels will offer complementary water boat transfers from the airport. === By plane === Marco Polo Airport and Treviso Airport serve the city. If no flight suits you, check flying to nearby '''[[Bologna#By_plane|Bologna]]''' or '''[[Verona#By_plane|Verona]]'''. From both cities trains and buses depart to Venice. ==== [[Venice Marco Polo Airport|Marco Polo Airport]] ==== {{Listing | type = go | name = Marco Polo Airport | alt = {{IATA|VCE}} | url = http://www.veniceairport.it | email = | address = | lat = 45.50528 | long = 12.35194 | directions = on the mainland near [[Mestre]], a more typical Italian city without Venice's unique structure | phone = | tollfree = | fax = | hours = | price = | wikipedia= Venice Marco Polo Airport | wikidata = Q849347 | image = Aeroporto di Venezia - vue aerienne.jpg | lastedit = 2019-08-21 | content = This is the closest commercial airport. }} There are direct flights to and from [[Amsterdam Schiphol]], [[Atlanta Airport]], [[Barcelona El Prat]], Basel, Belfast, Berlin, Bilbao, Birmingham, Bordeaux, Brussels, Casablanca, Chisinau, Cologne-Bonn, [[Copenhagen Airport]], Doha, Dubai, Dublin, Dubrovnik, Düsseldorf, Edinburgh, Eindhoven, [[Frankfurt Airport]], Geneva, Glasgow, Hamburg, Istanbul, Leeds, Le Havre, Lille, Lisbon, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, Manchester, Mars Alam, Marseilles, Metz, Montreal, Moscow, [[Munich Airport]], Mykonos, Nantes, New York. Newcastle, Nice, Oslo, Paris, Philadelphia, Prague Pristina, Riga, Southend, Saint Petersburg, Sharm el-Sheik, Stuttgart, Timisoara, Tirana, Toronto, Toulouse, Tunis, Vienna, Warsaw, [[Yerevan]] and Zurich as well as domestic flights to and from Bari, Brindisi, Cagliari, Catania, Lamezia Terme, Naples, Olbia, Palermo, Reggio Calabria, and Rome. You can travel to and from Marco Polo airport by (expensive) taxi, express bus (ATVO), regular city bus (ACTV), long-distance bus ([https://www.flixbus.com/?departureCity=b2a6981d-00be-40c6-9141-57e4977b409f Flixbus]), shuttle service ([https://www.goopti.com/en/?from=27 GoOpti]), water lines (Alilaguna), or water taxi. Note that the ATVO and ACTV buses cost the same fixed fare from the airport, but see the ACTV section below for the least expensive option. As of April 2022 the airport wifi service is free for 30 min without registration and a few hours with registration. '''[https://www.atvo.it/en-venice-airport.html ATVO]''' operates airport shuttle '''expressbus 35''' service from ''Piazzale Roma'' to ''Marco Polo Airport'' between 04:20 and 00:40 every day and from ''Marco Polo Airport'' to ''Piazzale Roma'' between 06:00 to 01:10 every day. The trip on a coach bus with luggage stowed underneath takes about 20 minutes. ATVO ticket price is €10 one-way and €18 return, luggage included. Tickets can be bought at the airport from the automatic ATVO ticket machine in the arrivals baggage hall, at the ATVO ticket counter in the arrival hall (open from 08:00 to 23:45, {{Phone|+39 042 1594672}}) and from the automatic ATVO ticket machine outside the airport on the ATVO departure platform. In Venice, tickets can be bought at the ATVO ticket office in Piazzale Roma, near the Carabinieri station ({{Phone|+39 421 594 671}}), at automatic ATVO ticket machine outside the ticket office, at 'Chiosco di Pluff' newsagent in the center of the square 5 m from the departure point for the buses to San Marco Airport, at Botazzo Tobacconist's in Piazzale Roma, at the Novo Tour Agency in Piazzale Roma and at IEX Change Agency in St. Mark's Square under the Torre dei Mori. In Mestre, tickets can be bought at ATVO ticket office in Via Capuccina 183, near the railway station ({{Phone|+39 421 594 673}}), at automatic ticket machine outside the ticket office, at Bar Binario, situated near the ticket office, at ATAV - Associazione Turistica Albergatori Venezia, inside the railway station or at 365 Grandi Biglietterie Agency inside the railway station. '''[http://actv.avmspa.it/en/content/urban-lines-0 ACTV]''' operates urban '''aerobus 5''' service between ''Piazzale Roma'' and ''Marco Polo Airport'' every day, all day except for a few hours overnight from about 01:00 to 04:00. The trip in a city bus takes about 23 minutes. The ACTV ticket price to or from the airport premises is €10 one-way and €18 return for a 75-minute trip by bus and/or water buses (vaporetti). One piece of hand luggage is included in the price. If you are willing to walk 1 km to save some euros, walk to the {{marker | name=Triestina Tessera stop | lat=45.504139 | long=12.328270}} and catch the same bus 5 (or some other routes) for €1.50. The buses now have a tap-to-pay option for contactless credit cards or there is an AVM Venezia app to buy tickets: the ticket purchase option is confusingly labeled under "Transport" - "Ticket Office" - "Automotive" and the ticket must be activated before boarding the bus. '''[http://www.alilaguna.it/en Alilaguna]''' operates three '''water bus''' lines from the airport. Such a direct water bus from the airport may be more convenient than taking the bus to the bus station and then changing to the local water bus. To reach the boat jetty, turn left on leaving the terminal and walk 10 minutes along the covered walkway. * '''Blue line (linea blu)''' runs from the airport to the Cruise Terminal (Terminal Crociere) via Murano, Fondamente Nove, Ospedale, Bacini, Lido, Arsenale, San Zaccaria, San Marco, Zitelle, Zattere, and Giudecca Stucky. Boats leave from the airport every hour from 06:10 to 08:10 and from 20:15 to 00:15 and every 30 minutes between 08:45 and 20:15, boats leave from the Cruise Terminal every 30 minutes from 07:50 to 17:20. The boat trip from the airport to the city center (San Marco) takes about 90 min. This trip is very long and boring, so bring something to do. The trip from the airport to Murano takes 30 min. * '''Orange line (linea arancio)''' connects the airport with Giglio via Madonna dell'Orto, Guglie, San Stae, Rialto, San Angelo and Ca' Rezzonico. Boats leave from the airport every 30 mins from 08:00 to 19:00. Boats leaving later in the evening go to Fondamenta Nove or San Marco only. Boats leave from Giglio from every 30 minutes from 6:48 to 19:48, later boats leave from San Marco only. * '''Red line (Linea Rossa)''' goes from the airport to Giudecca Zitelle via Murano Museo, Certosa, Lido, and San Marco. This is a seasonal service and only operates between April and November. Boats leave the airport every hour from 10:30 to 18:30 and San Marco every hour from 9:05 to 19:05. The ticket price from the airport to Lido, Venice, or Cruise Terminal is €15 one way (€8 IMOB smart card) and €27 return. Airport to Murano costs €8 one way (€4 IMOB) and €15 return. There are also tourist tickets which are valid for 24 hours (€30), and for 72 hours (€65). All tickets can be purchased online. The water bus services from the airport are operated by a different company (Alilaguna) than the other public water bus services in Venice, so separate tickets will be required. From the same jetty, you can travel in style (and much faster) by hiring one of the speedy '''water-taxis''' (30 min) for about €110. ==== Treviso Airport ==== The '''[http://trevisoairport.it/ Treviso Airport]''' ({{IATA|TSF}}), located 25&nbsp;km (16&nbsp;mi) from Venice near [[Treviso]], is relatively smaller but becoming increasingly busy as the main destination for Ryanair, Wizzair, and Transavia budget flights. There are flights to Treviso Airport from Bucharest, Charleroi, Chisinau, Cluj, Dublin, East Midlands, Eindhoven, Iasi, Malta, Paris Beauvais, Prague, Stockholm, Timisoara and Valencia. There are domestic flights from Alghero, Bari, Brindisi, Cagliari, Catania, Lamezia Terme and Palermo. Flights to and from Treviso Airport are operated by [http://www.ryanair.com Ryanair] +39 895 8958989, [http://www.wizzair.com Wizz Air] +39 895 895 3322. The airport runs over-capacity with seating and facilities, and the security line can sometimes be very long during peak travel times. If you arrive at the airport and the line is moving too slowly, you can purchase local fast track service at '''[https://www.ufirst.com/en/doors/door-015659eb-2683-46ba-82ca-c18d7490b57f/service-d78a5c7d-c641-4072-8622-0b351fcf8db7 UFirst.com]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' for €10. This is official but poorly advertised at the airport. There is no express passport control if departing the Schengen area. '''[http://www.atvo.it/index.php?lingua=en&area=menustandard&idpadre=23&idmenu=36 ATVO]''' operates buses from Venice to Treviso Airport daily at 05:30, 07:10, 10:30, and 18:30 and from Treviso Airport to Venice daily at 07:45, 08:15, 13:10 and 21:20 plus others not connecting to the flights to and from Treviso Airport. Flights arriving earlier or later than scheduled may affect the departure from the airport. If flights are cancelled the bus service will be suspended. The bus has two stops in Mestre, one in Corso del Popolo in front of BNP Bank in the historic center and the other one near the railway station and the journey takes about 55 min. The bus stop in Venice is at Piazzale Roma and the journey takes about 70 min. Ticket prices are €12 one-way and €22 return (valid 7 days) and have to be validated before boarding the bus. Tickets can be bought at Treviso Airport at the automatic ATVO ticket machine in the arrivals baggage hall or at the ATVO ticket office in the arrivals hall, operating from 07:30 to 22:30 ({{Phone|+39 422 315 381}}). In Venice, tickets can be bought at the ATVO ticket office in Piazzale Roma, near the Carabinieri station ({{Phone|+39 421 594 671}}), at automatic ATVO ticket machine outside the ticket office, at 'Chiosco di Pluff' newsagent in the center of the square 5 m from the departure point for the buses to Treviso Airport, at Botazzo Tobacconist's in Piazzale Roma, at the Novo Tour Agency in Piazzale Roma and at IEX Change Agency in St.Mark's Square under the Torre dei Mori. In Mestre tickets can be bought at ATVO ticket office in Via Capuccina 183, near the railway station ({{Phone|+39 421 594 673}}), at automatic ticket machine outside the ticket office, at Bar Binario, situated near the ticket office, at ATAV - Associazione Turistica Albergatori Venezia, inside the railway station or at 365 Grandi Biglietterie Agency inside the railway station. There is free Wi-Fi on the buses. '''[http://www.barziservice.com/en/services/airport/ Barzi Bus Service]''' offers a bus service via the motorway from the airport to Mestre train station (about 30 min trip) and Venice Tronchetto (about 40 min trip). Ticket prices are €12 one way and €22 return (valid 10 days). Tickets can be bought at their desk in the arrival hall ({{Phone|+39 348 836 71 85}}), or on the bus. Tickets bought on Ryanair flights are ''not'' valid for this service. Barzi Bus brings you to Tronchetto, from there you can take vaporetto line 2 to the city center. If you'd rather avoid the highway traffic and don't have bulky luggage, take the local '''[http://www.mobilitadimarca.it/p/linee-e-orari/servizio-urbano/urbano-treviso Mobilita di Marca bus no. 6]{{Dead link|date=April 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' for €1.30 (€2.50 if bought on board). It will deposit you at the Treviso train station in about 10 minutes. There are 2-3 departures hourly from the airport between 06:00 to 22:00. Then it's about 30 minutes on Regionale or Regionale Veloce train to Venezia Santa Lucia (also 2-3 departures per hour). The ticket price is €3.95 for the train. ==== San Nicolo Airport ==== The '''San Nicolo Airport''' (ICAO: LIPV, no IATA code) is an airfield directly on the Lido. It handles only small aircraft, as the runway (grass) is about 1&nbsp;km long, and does not have any scheduled flights, but might be of interest to private pilots (arrivals from [[Schengen Agreement]] states only) due to its convenience to the city (it is a short walk to the vaporetto landing). === By train === [[File:Lion of Venice, Piazzetta San Marco.jpg|thumb|300px|A winged lion, the symbol of San Marco]] Venice is well-connected with the domestic train network, [[Rome]] and [[Milan]] are only a few hours away. Freccia Bianca (White Arrow) trains to [[Trieste]] leave from Venezia Mestre several times a day and the trip takes about 1 hr 35 min. Regionale Veloce (Fast Regional) trains leave from Santa Lucia station frequently, the trip taking about 2 hr 5 min. Freccia Bianca (White Arrow) trains to Milan leave Santa Lucia station frequently, duration of the trip is about 2 hr 35 min. There several are Freccia Argento (Silver Arrow) trains to Rome leaving Santa Lucia, via [[Bologna]] and [[Florence]] arriving in Rome 3 hr 50 min later, and an Intercity Night train from Santa Lucia to Rome. [http://www.italotreno.it/EN/Pages/default.aspx Iitalo] offers train services to Santa Lucia from Rome several times a day. Direct trains to Venice are available from many international destinations, there are [[sleeper trains]] from [[Munich]] and [[Vienna]] operated by ÖBB as part of their [http://www.nightjet.at Nightjet] brand. The Thello sleeper leaves Paris Gare de Lyon in the evening to arrive in Santa Lucia in the morning. Also, Venice is the terminus for the luxurious '''[https://www.belmond.com/venice-simplon-orient-express Venice Simplon Orient-Express]''', a historical train that still makes the overnight journey from [[London]] and Paris in original 1920s coaches. There are departures at least once a week between March and November. As one of the most sumptuous journeys in the world, the trip is expectedly ''very'' expensive, starting at €2,900. Trains from the mainland run through [[Mestre]] on the mainland to the terminus Venezia Santa Lucia railway station on the west side of Venice; make sure you don't get it confused with the two stations on the mainland before the bridge. Many through trains only stop in Mestre, in that case just hop on to one of the very frequent trains to Santa Lucia (ticket €1.25). Also, ACTV has a ticket office at Mestre station, and queues might be shorter here. From the Santa Lucia station district, water buses (''vaporetti'') or water taxis can take you to hotels or other locations on the islands, but walking is usually the best option. * {{go | name=Venezia Santa Lucia railway station | alt=Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia | url=https://www.instazione.shop/venezia-santa-lucia | email= | address=Fondamenta Santa Lucia | lat= | long= | directions=Northern edge of Cannaregio district | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q801567 | lastedit=2021-03-06 | content=The main terminus station located in proper Venice. The strikingly modern building was built in 1934. Stepping out from the station you are immediately met with views of the canals and historic Venice. The station has plenty of amenities, including lounges for holders of first-class tickets. There's a left luggage facility next to the track on the north side of the station (to the right when facing the tracks). Price is €6 per piece for the first six hours. }} * {{go | name=Venezia Mestre railway station | alt=Stazione di Venezia Mestre | url= | email= | address=Piazzale Pietro Favretti | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q520844 | lastedit=2021-03-06 | content=Main station on the mainland, many through trains only call here. }} * {{go | name=Venezia Porto Marghera railway station | alt=Stazione di Venezia Porto Marghera | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3971261 | lastedit=2021-03-06 | content=Smaller station on the mainland, only local services call here. }} === By car === Distances to Venice: Rome 540 km, Milan 279 km, Padua 60 km, Vicenza 75 km, Udine 125 km Cars arrive on the far western edge of Venice, but remain parked at the entrance to the city (Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto, which is Europe's largest car park.) There are no roads past this point, and never were, even before cars. ==== Parking ==== Car parking is very very expensive here (€26/12 hr, €30/24 hr) and the tailbacks can be quite large. Tronchetto is about a 1&nbsp;km from Piazzale Roma, the city's main entry point, but there is a shuttle train service, ''People Mover'', at €1.50. * {{Listing | type = go | name=Parking Tronchetto | alt= | url=http://www.veniceparking.it/find-parking/Venezia%20Tronchetto%20Parking/ | email=info-tronchettopark@interparking.com | address=Isola Nuova del Tronchetto | lat=45.4426 | long=12.3066 | directions= | phone=+39 041 5207555 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 5285750 | hours= | price= |lastedit=2016-08-16| content=Has 4,000 parking spaces (including 33 parking spaces for persons with special needs). Parking is open 24 hours throughout the year. Cars must not be higher than 2.10 m. Ticket price is €3 per hour for the first 2 hours, €5 per hour for the next 2 hours and €21 for the whole day. Most credit cards are accepted. }} * {{Listing | type = go | name=Autorimessa Comunale | alt= | url=http://avm.avmspa.it/en/content/autorimessa-comunale-city-parking-garage | email= | address=Piazzale Roma, Santa Croce 496 | lat=45.43881 | long=12.31714 | directions= | phone=+39 041 2727302 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open 24 hours every day of the year | price=€23.40 for cars thinner than 185cm online | content=Offers parking for more than 2000 cars and 3000 motor-cycles on 6 floors. Cars must not exceed a height of 2.20 m. The ticket price is €26 for cars under 1.85 m and €29 for cars over 1.85 m. Online bookings at [http://www.veneziaunica.it/en/e-commerce/services?macrofamily=5&family=24 this website] get 10 percent discount. You can [http://www.avmspa.it/UploadDocs/28_autocom_map_ita.pdf download a map] on how to reach the Autorimessa. }} * {{Listing | type = go | name=S. Andrea Car Park | alt= | url=http://avm.avmspa.it/en/content/sandrea-car-park-0 | email= | address=Piazzale Roma | lat=45.43792 | long=12.31718 | directions= | phone=+39 041 2727304 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open 24 hours every day all the year round | price= | content=Inside the Autorimessa, accessible from Rio Terà S. Andrea, for short term parking. Cars must not be higher than 2 m. The ticket price is €7 for 2 hours. No advance reservation. You can [http://www.avmspa.it/UploadDocs/261_city_park_map_eng.pdf download a map] how to reach the S. Andrea car park. }} '''An alternative''' is to use the car parks on the mainland (terra firma) and catch a train or bus or vaporetto into Venice. Park near the [[Mestre]] railway station, and catch a train to Venezia St Lucia; there are many trains, it is very near (8–10 minutes) and quite cheap (€1.20). Don't bother searching for free parking near Mestre train station - there are no free parking spots near, except on Sunday (free parking is on the other side of the station, in Marghera). Free and safe parkings are also near Mogliano Veneto and Oriago railway stations. Besides, Venezia St Lucia is a good starting point to visit Venice. However drivers going to the Lido can use the car ferry from Tronchetto (vaporetto 17, frequencies vary), right hand lane off the Ponte della Libertà into the city. * {{Listing | type = go | name=Ca' Marcello Car Park | alt= | url=http://actv.avmspa.it/en/content/ca-marcello-car-park-0 | email= | address=via Ca' Marcello, Mestre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open every day from 06:00 to 24:00 | price= | content=Open air car park for 100 cars near the Mestre railway station. Ticket price €1 for 4 hours, €4 for the whole day (on week-days from 08:00 to 20:00 only). }} * {{Listing | type = go | name=Terminal Fusina | alt= | url=http://www.terminalfusina.it/en/parking | email=fusina@terminalfusina.it | address=via Moranzani 79, Fusina | lat=45.42039 | long=12.25505 | directions= | phone=+39 041 5470160 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 5479133 | hours= | price= | content=Offers parking for 300 coaches and 15,000 cars. It has direct access from A4 highway and Strada Statale Romea 309. Prices €12 for up to 12 hours, €15 for up to 24 hours (20 per cent discount for online bookings). Terminal Fusina offers 3 boat lines to Venice: }} ** Blue Line (Line Blu) runs from Fusina to Venice Zattere every hour from 08:00 to 19:00, also at 20:00 from Apr to Oct and during carnival and at 21:00 and 22:00 from Jun to Sept, travel time 25 minutes, return from Venice Zattere every hour from 08:30 to 19:30, also at 20:30 from Apr to Oct and during carnival and at 21:30 and 22:30 from Jun to Sept, ticket price one way €8, return €13 ** Red line (line Rossa) runs from Fusina to Alberoni on Venice Lido in winter M-F at 07:30, every day at 09:30, 11:30, 13:30, 15:30 and 17:30. travel time 35 minutes, return M-F 08:15, every day at 10:15, 12:15, 14:15, 16:15 and 18:45. Ticket price €7 one-way, €12 return. ** Yellow Line (Line gialla) runs from Zattere to Alberoni at 08:45, 10:45, 12:45, 16:15 and 18:15, return from Alberoni at 09:30, 11:45, 13:45, 17:00 and 19:00, tickets €7 one-way, €12 return. * {{Listing | type = go | name=Punta Sabbioni | alt= | url=http://www.acivenice.com | email=info@acivenice.com | address=Via Fausta, Cavallino Treporti | lat=45.44814 | long=12.42764 | directions= | phone=+39 0415301096 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=ACI operates a large car park for 100 buses and 400 cars at Punta Sabbioni. This is a convenient way to enter Venice from the seaside resorts Lido di Jesolo, Lignano or Bibione. Vaporetto line 12 brings you to Murano, Burano and Torcello, lines 14 and 15 to S. Zaccaria. }} ==== Car rental ==== Most of the major rental car companies have outlets at Piazzale Roma, at the edge of the city. These are on the ground floor of one of the major parking stations. When you are dropping off your car, you need to find street parking and then walk to the rental car outlet and hand in the keys. Do not park in the parking station. There is a vaporetto stop across the road from the parking station. === By bus === For '''bus''' services between Marco Polo airport (VCE) and the Piazzale Roma bus station in Venice, see the By Place section. The {{marker|type=go|name=Piazzale Roma bus station|url=|lat=45.4379|long=12.3189}} is well served by vaporetti and water-taxis ... and of course, you can walk everywhere. From [[Mestre]], you can take a bus to Venezia-Piazzale Roma. The ticket is €1.30, but if you buy it in the bus it will cost €2.50. You can buy bus tickets from specialized ticket kiosks and vending machines, as well as from tobacconists and newsstands. All of the city is connected to Venice by bus. === By tram === There is a [http://actv.avmspa.it/en/content/tram tram connection] from the mainland to Venice: Line T1 from Favaro to Piazzale Roma. One way/Single Ticket - 75 min €1.50. Ticket booklet - 10 tickets - 75 min €14. You can buy tram tickets from specialized ticket kiosks, vending machines, tobacconists and newsstands, and you can use the same ticket for buses and People Mover. === By boat === [[File:Venezia San Giorgio Maggiore R06.jpg|thumb|360px|View of San Giorgio, in front of Venice]] Ships arrive at the '''[http://www.vtp.it/ Stazione Marittima]''' which is at the west end of the main islands, it is served by vaporetti and water taxis. ''To Piazzale Roma'': take the '''People Mover''' operating every 3 minutes weekdays from 07:10 to 22:50, holidays from 08:10 to 21:50, price €1. ''To Santa Lucia Railway Station'' (distance 1 km): take the ''People Mover'' to Piazzale Roma, then walk or take the water taxi ({{Phone|+39 0412402711}}, {{Phone|+39 041716922}}, {{Phone|+39 0415222303}} or {{Phone|+39 0415229040}}). ''To Venezia Mestre Railway Station'' (distance {{Km|7}}) take a taxi (Radiotaxi: {{Phone|+39 041 5952080}}) or take the People Mover to Piazzale Roma and the bus line to Mestre. ''To Marco Polo Airport'' (distance {{Km|13}}) take a taxi (40 minutes trip), a water taxi or take the People Mover to Piazzale Roma and then ACTV bus no 6 or ATVO buses. === Porters === [https://www.trasbagagli.it/en/ '''Cooperative Trasbagagli''']{{Dead link|date=August 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, {{Phone|+39 041 713719}} offers porter services at the following rates: 1 or 2 pieces €25 Venice City, €40 Giudecca, San Giorgio, Riva 7 Martiri, €50 Lido, S.Elena, Giardini, S.Servolo, S.Clemente, and €60 Murano. 3 or 4 pieces €35 Venice City, €50 Giudecca, San Giorgio, Riva 7 Martiri, €60 Lido, S.Elena, Giardini, S.Servolo, S.Clemente, and €80 Murano, 5 or 6 pieces €45 Venice City, €60 Giudecca, San Giorgio, Riva 7 Martiri, €70 Lido, S.Elena, Giardini, S.Servolo, S.Clemente, and €90 Murano. There are porter stations at Ferrovia {{Phone|+39 041 715272}}, Piazzale Roma {{Phone|+39 041 5223590}}, S.Marco Campo della Guerra {{Phone|+39 3478675491}}, S.Marco Calle Vallaresso {{Phone|+39 3465881508}}, S.Marco Bacino Orseolo {{Phone|+39 3282696025}}, S.Marco Sant'Angelo {{Phone|+39 3406382287}}, S.Zaccaria (Danieli) {{Phone|+39 3203385248}}, S.Zaccaria (Jolanda) {{Phone|+39 3495803239}} and Rialto (Imbarcadero Actv Rialto line 1 and 2) {{Phone|+39 3474348898}}. == Get around == Venice, the world's only pedestrian city, is easily walkable, and the absence of cars makes this a particularly pleasant experience. However, walking and standing all day can also be exhausting, so it is best to pace yourself. The Rialtine islands – the 'main' part of Venice – are small enough to walk from one end to the other in about an hour, provided you don't get lost (a common occurrence). If you want to get around a bit more quickly, there are numerous '''vaporetti (water buses)''' and '''water taxis'''. The vaporetti are generally the best way to get around, even if the service route map changes frequently. If you are going to be in Venice for a few days visiting, it is a lot cheaper to use vaporetti than private water taxis. If you want to have a romantic ride along the canals, take a gondola ride, although they tend to exist for more scenic purposes, rather than getting people from point A to point B. GPS navigation services such as Google Maps are notoriously unreliable in Venice. The density of stone buildings makes it fairly difficult to receive a proper GPS satellite signal. You can mitigate some of these navigation issues using the Live View function in Google Maps, which uses your camera to orient yourself relative to businesses and landmarks around you. However, as of February,2024, Google Maps has been reported as to be working well for pathway navigation. The one surprising way you can't get around in Venice is by bicycle. Bicycles are banned in the main city. You are allowed to carry your bike in your arms (not ride, not wheel/walk) from the pIazzale Roma to the Venezia Santa Lucia train station, and if you are traveling through Venice to reach [[Lido]] or Pellestrina, then you can carry a bicycle like any other large package on public transit. There is a €100 fine for riding a bicycle in Venice. === By public transport === '''[http://www.actv.it/en ACTV]''' runs the vaporetti and other public transport services in the lagoon and on land. * '''Line 1''' runs from Piazzale Roma to Lido, passing the Railway Station (Ferrovia), Canal Grande, Rialto, S.Marco and S.Zaccaria and vice versa, leaving Piazzale Roma every 20 minutes from 05:01 to 06:01 and from 22:21 to 23:41, every 10 minutes from 06:21 to 22:01, leaving Lido every 20 minutes from 04:16 to 05:36 and from 21:46 to 23:06, every 10 minutes from 5:56 to 21:26. Notice that this service can be ''very crowded'' during the day as it passes through many sights along the Grand Canal. * '''Line N''' is a night line, connecting Lido with Canal Grande, Piazzale Roma, Tronchetto, Canale and vice versa. Boats leave Lido every 20 minutes from 23:26 to 04:06 and Piazzale Roma every 20 minutes from 00:09 to 04:49. * '''Line 2''' goes from S.Zaccaria over S.Giorgio, Giudecca, Zattere, Tronchetto, Piazzale Roma, Ferrovia, S.Marcuola, Rialto, S.Tomà, S.Samuele, Academia and S.Marco. Departure from S.Zaccaria every 20 minutes from 04:59 to 08:39 and from 20:49 to 23:09, every 10 minutes from 08:59 to 20:29. The route can be seen as a "C" running along the Grand Canal and Giudeca Canal, hugging the districts of San Polo, Santa Croce and Dorsoduro. * '''Line 4.1''' runs from San Zaccaria (Jolanda) to Murano via Arsenale, Giardini, S.Elena, S.Pietro di Castello, Bacini, Celestia, Ospedale. Fondamente Nove and Cimiterio and from Murano to San Zaccaria (Jolanda) via Cimitero, Fondamente Nove, Orto, Sant’Alvise, Tre Archi, Gugle, Ferrovia, Piazzale Roma, S.Marta, Palanca, Redentore and Zitelle. Boats leave Fondamente Nove to Murano (Museo) from 06:14 to 21:34 and from 21:42 to 23:22, from Murano (Museo) to Piazzale Roma from 06:32 to 19:32, from Murano (Museo) to Fondamente Nove from 19:52 to 21:52 and from Piazzale Roma to San Zaccaria from 06:18 to 20:18 every 20 minutes. * '''Line 4.2''' runs from San Zaccaria (Jolanda) to Murano via Zitelle, Redentore, Palanca, Sacca Fisola, S.Marta, Piazzale Roma, Ferrovia, Guglie, Crea, S.Alvise, Orto, Fondamente Nove and Cimitero, and return from Murano to San Zaccaria (Jolanda) via Cimitero, Fondamente Nove. Ospedale, Celestia, Bacini, S.Elena, Giardini and Arsenale. Boats depart at San Zaccaria from 06:13 to 20:33, from Piazzale Roma to Fondamente Nove from 06:56 to 20:56, from Fondamente Nove to Murano from 06:23 to 21:23, from Murano (Museo) to San Zaccaria from 06:43 to 20:43, and from Murano (Museo) to Fondamente Nove from 20:43 to 21:43 and from 22:07 to 23.47 every 20 minutes. * '''Line 5.1''' runs anti-clockwise from Lido to Piazzale Roma via S.Pietro, Bacini, Celetstia, Ospedale, Fondamente Nove, Orto, S.Alvise, Tre Archi, Guglie, Riva de Biasio and Ferrovia and from Piazzale Roma to Lido via S.Marta, Zattere. S.Zaccaria, Giardini and S.Elenea. Boats leave from Lido from 06:20 to 20:20, from Fondamente Nove from 06:24 to 23:04, from Piazzale Roma from 06:08 to 23:48 and from S.Zaccaria from 06:38 to 00:08 every 20 minutes. * '''Line 5.2''' runs clockwise from Lido to Piazzale Roma and back to Lido. Boats leave Lido from 5.52 to 20.32 and from 20:42 to 00:22, from S.Zaccaria from 06:06 to 20:46 and from 20:56 to 00:36, from Piattale Roma from 0626 to 21:06 and from 21:16 to 23:16 every 20 minutes. * '''Line 6''' runs from Piazzale Roma to Lido via S.Marta, S.Basilio, Zattere, Giardini and S.Elena. Boats leave Piazzale Roma from 06:19 to 20:29, and Lido from 05:42 to 20:02 every 20 minutes. * '''Line 9''' runs from Burano to Torcello, leaving Burno from 07:05 to 20:35 and Torcello from 06:40 to 20:10 every 30 minutes. * '''Line 10''' runs from Lido to San Marco Giardinetti via S.Elena, Giardini, Arsenale and S.Zaccaria and return from San Marco Giardinetti to Lido via S.Zaccaria. Boats from 18:01 to 20:21 and from San Marco Giardinetti from 17:39 to 20:21 every 10 minutes. * '''Line 12''' runs from Fondamente Nove to Punta Sabbioni via Murano Faro, Mazzorbo, (Torcello), Burano and Treporti and back. Boats leave Fondamente Nove from 07:10 to 19:40 and Punta Sabbioni from 07:56 to 20:26 every 30 minutes. * '''Line 14, 14L, 15''' runs from San Zaccaria Pieta to Punta Sabbioni via Lido and back. Boats leave S.Zaccaria Pietà from 08:15 to 20:15 every 30 minutes, later at varying intervals, last boat at 23.45. Boats leave Punta Sabbioni from 08:30 to 17:00 every 30 minutes, later at varying intervals, last boat at 00:20 Some boats do not stop at Lido. * '''Line 17''' is the Tronchetto to Lido (S.Nicoló) ferry. Ferry boats leave at Tronchetto at 00:10, 01:40, and from 06:40 to 23:20 every 50 minutes and Lido (S.Nicoló) at 00:55 and from 05:50 to 23:20 every 50 minutes. Additional services for all lines in the early morning. Information for all ACTV services at Hello Venezia {{Phone|+39 041 2424}}, daily 07:30 to 20:00. You can download a [http://www.veneziaunica.it/sites/default/files/redazione/linee_navigazione_ACTV_aprile2014.jpg map of Venice water buses] A '''single ticket''' (''biglietto solo andata'') costs €9.50, permitting the use of public transports for 75 minutes from the moment you validate the ticket including transfers heading in the same direction. If you board a boat without having bought a ticket, you have to buy one from the on-board collector. There are no return tickets. There are '''tourist travel cards''' (''biglietto turistico a tempo'') that cost €25 for 24 hours, €35 for 48 hours, €45 for 72 hours and €65 for 7 days. There are other versions available, including those offering discounts for youth under 29 year of age. [http://www.actv.it/en/movinginvenice/movinginvenice Current rates can be found here]. Something you won't be told easily is that now anyone can purchase the '''[http://actv.avmspa.it/en/content/venezia-unica-city-pass-0 Venezia Unica City Pass]''' card (formerly '''IMOB''') - the only difference is that in addition to its €10 cost for residents, foreigners need to pay a €90 extra "transport activation" fee. Unless you are in town for a couple of days and planning never to return, do it. It's a durable plastic card with your (webcam) picture, and once you have it, you are more or less a local, which means access to €1.50 single vaporetto tickets (save even more by recharging the card with 10 at once for €14), half-price discount on Alilaguna services, and even €0.70 traghetto crossings (instead of €2; flash the card to the gondolier). It is valid for 5 years from the month of issue. Register at the Venezia Unica [https://www.veneziaunica.it/en/e-commerce/services site] and pre-fill the application online, then go to one of the [https://www.veneziaunica.it/en/content/venezia-unica-agencies-and-venezia-unica-ticket-points ACTV offices] (not simply ticket points; probably the easiest location is at Piazzale Roma) and tell the clerk that you have a "contratto precompilato" - they'll pull it up, ask you to sign the privacy disclosures and issue the card on the spot (or you can fill the form at the counter, but it's in Italian). Moreover, if you happen to have a +39 Italian cell phone number, with it and your new Unica you can [http://www.cittadinanzadigitale.it/node/70 get a free code] for use of the communal WiFi spots. If you lose the card, do not despair: it costs only €10 to get an immediate replacement, and the balance (along with your old photograph) is automatically transferred over. The [http://veniceconnected.com Venice Connected]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} website of the Comune di Venezia (now integrated into Unica site) makes possible to book online (at least 7 days in advance) most services controlled by the town administration (public transportation, access to the civic museums, access to public restrooms, car park tickets, entrance to the Casinò and access to the municipal WiFi network covering the entire historic centre); the online prices vary according to the projected number of visitors but are always cheaper than the current on-site prices (and cheaper than with a Venice Card). You can also get a '''Venice Card''', which has various options that you can choose when you buy it (public transportation, cultural attractions, toilet access, Alilaguna, etc.) There is a 'Junior' version of the Venice that is available at a slightly reduced rate for those between 5 and 29 years of age. A Venice Card is not recommended for those with less than 3 days in Venice, as most of the top attractions are not included in the Venice Card. If you'll be staying in Venice for a week - get the Venice Card and enjoy travelling from island to island and exploring the various museums and churches it offers access to. Maps are available at the vaporetto stops in the ticket booths. The map is quite reliable, and is free when getting a Venice Card (€2 otherwise) can be [http://www.actv.it/sites/default/files/ultimamappa.pdf viewed] on Internet. Venice Cards can be [http://www.hellovenezia.com/index.php?lang=en reserved on-line] {{dead link|December 2020}} for a considerable discount. There are long lines when taking the Venice Card from the ticket booths. The Venezia St. Lucia ticket booth that offers Venice Cards is the one most on the right when you exit the train station. [https://www.elmoro.com/ Venice vaporetto tickets] can be also purchased online on many websites such as ElMoro.com that presents all the vaporetto's lines and information to get around by boat. === By foot === [[File:Target in venice.JPG|thumb|Directions are all over the city]] Otherwise, '''take a walk'''! The city is not that big, and you can walk from one end to the other in a few hours if you stick to the paths conveniently marked with arrows in the direction of major landmarks. But it would take months for a fit person to discover every path in the city. Make sure to visit some of the smaller alleyways, as they can be very interesting. Along the way you will discover marvelous art, superb architecture and breathtaking urban landscaping. Exploring the city randomly by walking is well worth it, but also be prepared to get lost easily! Signs all over the city indicate the direction to the main attractions, "Rialto" and "San Marco", as well as the way back to the train station ("ferrovia") and the bus terminal ("Piazzale Roma"). These signs make it easy to have the "get lost experience" even as a one-day tourist. For a faster and safer walk, you should walk on the right side of every path. Be aware that addresses in Venice are of the form "District Number" (the Venetian word for district is "Sestiere"), not "Street Number". To find a specific place using a map, make sure you know which district it is in. The numbers are assigned at the start of the district and increase as they move farther away from the Grand Canal. [[Travellers with disabilities|Travellers with mobility impairments]] will need to plan their routes carefully and allow extra time. Although the city is nearly flat, moving from one section to another requires either getting on a boat or climbing stairs to cross a bridge. The water buses are generally wheelchair accessible, though a wheelchair user may not be able to board when they are crowded. A few bridges have temporary ramps, and the city plans to add permanent ramps to a few more. This should, hopefully by 2030, allow people to move between the most popular attractions in the city without climbing stairs, although some areas of the city will remain difficult to access. === By water taxi === [[File:View of the Grand Canal from Rialto to Ca'Foscari.jpg|thumb|360px|right|Grand Canal from Rialto to SW]] Water taxis (''taxi acquei'') are operated by Coop. San Marco ({{Phone|+39 041 5222303}}), Coop. Veneziana ({{Phone|+39 041 716124}}), Coop. Serenissima ({{Phone|+39 041 5221265}} or {{Phone|+39 041 5229538}}), Soc. Narduzzi Solemar ({{Phone|+39 041 5200838}}), Soc. Marco Polo ({{Phone|+39 041 966170}}), Soc. Sotoriva ({{Phone|+39 041 5209586}}), Soc. Serenissima ({{Phone|+39 041 5228538}}) and Venezia Taxi ({{Phone|+39 041 723112}}). There are water taxi ranks at Ferrovia (Railway Station) ({{Phone|+39 041716286}}), Piazzale Roma (S.Chiara) ({{Phone|+39 041716922}}), Rialto ({{Phone|+39 041723112}}), Lido ({{Phone|+39 0414222303}}) and at Marco Polo Airport ({{Phone|+39 0415415084}}). In the historic city centre there is a fixed tariff for water taxis of €15 at departure plus €2 per minute on urban routes. There are supplements of €5 for call services and customer pick-up outside the taxi ranks, of €10 for night services between 22:00 and 06:00, of €3 pieces of luggage exceeding 4 pieces and of €5 or €10 for every person exceeding a group of 4. Rates are fixed by a [http://www.comune.venezia.it/flex/cm/pages/ServeBLOB.php/L/EN/IDPagina/19521 resolution]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} of the Venice City Council. A water taxi service for persons with special needs is available at {{Phone|+39 041 2747332}} or directly through the website [http://www.booktaxivenice.com Book Taxi Venice]. === By taxi === 'Normal' taxis can be called from Radio Taxi ({{Phone|+39 041 936137}}). There are taxi ranks at ''Piazzale Roma'' ({{Phone|+39 041 5237774}}) and ''Lido'' ({{Phone|+39 041 5265974}}). === By ''traghetto'' === There are small gondola ferries crossing the Canal Grande at * {{marker|type=go|name=''S.Sofia''|lat=45.44020|long=12.33435}}, M–Sa 07:30–20:00, Su and holidays 08:45–19:00 * {{marker|type=go|name=''Carbon (Rialto)''|lat=45.43678|long=12.33373}}, M–F 07:00–12:30, weekdays only * {{marker|type=go|name=''S.Tomá''|lat=45.43537|long=12.32896}}, M–Sa 07:30–20:00, Su and holidays 08:30–19:30 * {{marker|type=go|name=''San Barnaba''|lat=45.43336|long=12.32735}}, M–F 07:45–12:30, * {{marker|type=go|name=''S.Maria del Giglio''|lat=45.43129|long=12.33302}}, daily 09:00–18:00 * {{marker|type=go|name=''Dogana''|lat=45.43165|long=12.33672}}, daily 09:00–14:00 Ticket price €2 one way, €0.70 for Venice residents and IMOB card holders. === By tour === '''[http://www.alilaguna.it Alilaguna Green line (linea verde)]''' Alilaguna, {{Phone|+39 041 5235775}}, operates a 4 hours excursion tour to the island of [[Murano]], [[Burano]] and [[Torcello]] with explanations in English, French, German and Spanish. Departure from imbarcadero San Marco Giardinetti, Minimum 4 participants. Boat starts in Apr, May and Oct at 09:30, 11:00 and 14:30, from Jun to Sept at 09:30, 11:00, 14:30 and 15:30, from Nov to Mar at 11:00 and 14:00. Ticket price €20 (free for holders of Alilaguna 72-hr pass). == See == {{infobox|Children's view of Venice|Venice offers plenty for people of all ages to enjoy. See [[Venice with children]] for tips for making your visit with children a bit easier.}} {{Mapframe|45.4332|12.3354|zoom=13}} Venice is packed full of sights, with something interesting to see around each corner. The most spectacular sights, such as the '''Doge's Palace''' and '''Saint Mark's Basilica''', are in [[Venice/San Marco|San Marco]], the historic seat of power. * [[Venice/San Marco#Q189883|'''Doge's Palace''']] in San Marco: don't miss the guided tour named ''Secret Itinerary'', which will let you discover the part of the palace where the city's administration worked, as well as Casanova's jail and the wonderful 500-year-old roof structure. A MUVE museum. * [[Venice/San Marco#Q754194|'''Bell tower of St. Mark''']] dates from 1912; an exact replica of the previous tower which collapsed in 1902. The top of the tower offers great views of Venice and the lagoon. * The [[Venice/San Marco#Q966625|'''Clock tower''']] has a restored astronomical clock which is now visible. The fascinating tour of the clock mechanism (and rooftop bell) can only be visited on a guided tour. A MUVE museum. * [[Venice/San Polo#Q1270723|'''Scuola Grande di San Rocco''']] in San Polo is a masterpiece of Tintoretto. It is a guild house that is an exquisite example of Mannerist art at its best. Cycles of allegories, life and passion of Christ, scenes from the Old and New Testament. * [[Venice/Cannaregio#Q649030|'''Jewish Ghetto''']] of Venice in Cannaregio still has very active Jewish life, and is home to five synagogues. On Saturdays or late Fridays, shops, restaurants, and other Jewish places will be closed. * [[Venice/San Marco#Q52505|'''Rialto Bridge''']], connecting sestieri San Polo and San Marco across Canal Grande, has become one of Venice's most recognizable icons. === Churches === [[File:Venezia (201710) jm55888.jpg|thumb|420px|The Basilica of San Marco]] A lot of churches charge an entry fee. There is a "Chorus Pass" for entry into some churches. If you plan to visit three churches or more, you are better off buying the churches pass. There is also a combined pass for museums, churches and transportation only available at the tourist information office, but it is relatively expensive. * [[Venice/San Marco#Q172988|'''Saint Mark's Basilica''']] is one of the highlights of a visit to Venice. It was begun probably in 1063 to express Venice's growing civic consciousness and pride. Its model was the 6th-century Church of the Holy Apostles in ConstantinopleTo convey the republic's wealth and power, the original brick façades and interior walls were embellished over time with precious stones and rare marbles. Many of the columns, reliefs, and sculptures were spoils stripped from the churches, palaces, and public monuments of Constantinople. * [[Venice/San Polo#Q922677|'''San Giacomo di Rialto''']] in San Polo was built around 421. It is possibly the oldest in Venice. It is most recognized for its 15th-century clock above the entrance, and for the red pillars and beautiful gold accents around the church. * [[Venice/Castello#Q155225|'''San Giovanni e Paolo''']] in Castello is a fine, huge Dominican church with the tombs of many Doges. It shares its piazza with the fine Renaissance façade of the Scuola San Marco and an equestrian statue of the mercenary (condottiere) captain Bartolomeo Colleoni. * [[Venice/Cannaregio#Q533680|'''Santa Maria dei Miracoli''']] is a perfect jewel box church, simple in form but ornamented with fine exterior marble facings. * [[Sant'Erasmo#Q281139|'''Convento di S.Francesco del Deserto''']] is an old Franciscan convent in one of the most beautiful islands in the Venice lagoon. * [[Venice/Cannaregio#Q861436|'''Madonna dell'Orto''']] in Canaregio has the grave and 10 paintings of ''Tintoretto''. * [[Venice/Dorsoduro#Q52531|'''S. Maria della Salute''']] in Dorsoduro. Because if its location between the Grand Canal and the Giudecca Canal, its dome was an important addition to the Venice skyline and soon became emblematic of the city, appearing in many artworks. * [[Venice/Castello#Q945981|'''Basilica di San Pietro''' di Castello]] was Venice's cathedral until 1807, when the see was transferred to San Marco. === Museums === [[File:20110722 Venice 4140.jpg|thumb|420px|Venice and St. Mark's Basilica from the Campanile]] The '''[http://www.visitmuve.it/en/home/ Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia (MUVE)]''' (call center 848–08.2000) offers two museums passes for the San Marco Museums valid for 3 months at €16 (€8 reduced) granting admission to Palazzo Ducale, Museo Correr, Museo Archaeologico Nazionale, Sale Monumentali della Bibliotheca Marciana, and another museum pass valid for 6 months for €24 (reduced €18) granting admission to the above mentioned museums plus Ca' Rezzonico, Mesue del '700 Veneziano, Palazzo Mocenigo, Casa di Carlo Goldoni, Ca' Pesaro, Museo del Vetro Murano, Museo di Merletto Burano and Museo di Storia Naturale. ==== Art museums ==== * [[Venice/San Marco#Q1470912|'''Correr Museum''']] has an interesting collection of globes, starting from the 16th century. There is also an only library hall, an archeological museum of Roman antiques and an important picture gallery. The museum offers a tour of Venetian history. Remarkable painting gallery with masterpieces of the 14th to 16th century from Venice, works of the Venetian sculpture Canova, studies on urban development and social life. A MUVE museum. *[[Venice/Dorsoduro#Q1049033|'''The Peggy Guggenheim Museum''']] in Dorsoduro includes a sculpture garden and works by Picasso, Kandinsky, Tanguy, Duchamp, Pollock, Dali, and Mondrian. * '''Ca' Pesaro''', in Santa Croce, includes the [[Venice/Santa Croce#Q3940563|International Modern Art Gallery]], with paintings of the 19th and 20th century, and the [[Venice/Santa Croce#Q756807|Museum of Oriental Art]]. A MUVE museum. * [[Venice/Dorsoduro#Q338330|'''Galleria dell'Accademia''' di Venezia]] in Dorsoduro is Venice's most significant art museum and one of Italy's best. Pre-19th-century art. * [[Venice/Dorsoduro#Q2931413|'''Punta della Dogana''']] is a former customs house, centre for contemporary art, permanent exhibition of works from the François Pinault Collection. Renovation by world renowned architect Tadao Ando. * [[Venice/Cannaregio#See|'''Galleria Giorgio Franchetti Ca' d'Oro''']] in Cannaregio is a collection of paintings and statues in a former palace from the 15th century. One of the best examples of Gothic architecture in Venice, sculptures, bronzes, paintings of Mantegna, Giorgione and Titian, Flemish and Dutch paintings. ==== Science and technology museums ==== * '''Venice Lido Planetarium''' (''Planetario di Venezia Lido''), [[Lido]]. A planetarium. * [[Venice/Dorsoduro#Museums|'''Le Macchine di Leonardo a Venezia''']] is an exhibition in the '''Chiesa di San Barnaba''' in Dorsoduro showing around 40 models of machines reproduced from Leonardo's codices. The church is an attraction in itself: it's the one under which Indiana Jones finds catacombs in ''The Last Crusade''. ==== Museums on religion ==== [[File:Chiesa di Ognissanti - Venezia - Affresco della volta del coro.jpg|thumb|420px|Ceiling of the choir of the Baroque Chiesa di Ognissanti]] * [[Venice/Cannaregio#See|'''Jewish Museum''']] in Cannaregio has objects related to the social life of the Jewish community, in two synagogues of the 16th century. * [[Venice/Lido#See|'''Mekhitarist Monastery''']] is a library on the small island of San Lazzaro degli Armeni, near Lido, with historical manuscripts, collection of works, miniatures and documents of the Armenian history, Monastery Church. Tours in Italian, English, and Armenian. ==== Other museums ==== * '''[[Venice/Murano#See|Glass Museum]]''' (''Museo del Vetro''). On Murano, the island so typical of its glasswork. A MUVE museum. * [[Venice/Santa Croce#Museums|'''Natural History Museum''']] in Santa Croce has 11 exhibition halls with sections on palaeontology, explorations and nature. A MUVE museum. * '''[[Venice/Burano#See|Lace Museum]]''' (''Museo del Merletto''). A MUVE museum. * [[Venice/Castello#See|'''Naval History Museum''']] in Castello has collection of relics from the Serenissima Republic of Venice, the Italian navy, and the ancient Arsenale shipyards, miniature models, uniforms and stadarts, collection of sea shells. * [[Venice/San Marco#Museums|'''Contarini del Bovolo''']] is a cylindrical tower in San Marco with a spiralling series of arches, among the most characteristic examples of Venetian architecture at the period of transition from Gothic to Renaissance styles. From the top there are great panoramic views of the city. * [[Venice/San Marco#Museums|'''Music Museum''']] in San Marco is a beautiful church, collection of musical instruments, Venetian Baroque paintings. * [[Venice/Castello#See|'''Palazzo Grimani''']] in Castello is a jewel of Renaissance architecture that has collections of paintings, archaeological collection of Greek and Roman artefacts, temporary exhibitions. * [[Venice/San Marco#Museums|'''Archaeological Museum''']] in San Marco has a collection of ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, Egyptian, Assyrian and Babylonian artefacts. === Cemeteries === * [[Venice/Cannaregio#Q3676942|'''San Michele Cemetery''']] on Isola di San Michele is part of the European circuit of monumental cemeteries. The Russian ballet dancer Serge Diaghilew, the Austrian physicist Christan Doppler, the American poet Ezra Pound, the Russian composer Igor Stravinsky and the German-Italian composer Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari are buried here. == Do == [[File:Palazzo Vitturi (Venice).jpg|thumb|Palazzo Vitturi]] === Events === * '''La Biennale di Venezia''' is one of the most well-known culture institutions. Two events organised by Biennale are the Art and Architecture International Exhibitions happening alternately (Architecture Biennale in even years, Art Biennale in odd) but other fields are also covered: contemporary theatre, dance, music, cinema. Exhibitions take place mostly in two locations in [[Venice/Castello#Do|Castello]]: Arsenale and Giardini. They are both worth visiting even when no event is scheduled. * The [http://www.carnevale.venezia.it/en/ '''Carnival of Venice'''] (''Carnevale di Venezia'') is annual festival that takes place for 2½ weeks in January and February (dates vary). It is famous throughout the world for its elaborate costumes and masks. * {{event | name= Regata Storica| url= http://regatastoricavenezia.it/?lang=en&pg=1&page=1| alt=Historic fleet event | year= | month= | date= | endyear= | endmonth= | enddate= | location= | country= | phone=+39 041 2424 | email= vela@velaspa.com | content= Celebrating a historic event from 1489, the regatta displays almost a hundred varieties of Venetian boats from the city's rich past. Large oarships, replicating ancient roman and medieval vessels, are rowed along the Canal Grande, followed by many smaller boats. There are several races, including a master championship for solo sculling in streamlined gondolini, painted in unusual white, pink, etc. colours. There are many excellent photo opportunities for this event. Early September. }} * {{event | name=Vogalonga | url= http://www.vogalonga.com/en/| alt= | year= 2| month= | date= | endyear= | endmonth= | enddate= | location= | country= | phone= +39 041 5210544| email=info@vogalonga.com | content= The yearly equivalent of a marathon run on water. Vogalonga competitors must row 32 km under 3½ hours to receive a certificate of attendance at the finish line, but everybody with a human-powered vessel is welcome to participate (some foreigner teams take up to 10 hours to complete the journey just for the fun of it). The official purpose of the Vogalonga was to protest the sharply increasing use of powerboats in Venice, but the event has gradually grown into a festival since 1974, with up to 5500 racers in 1500 vessels attending by the early 2000s. The racetrack visits different parts of Venice as well as some of the nearby islands. Locals and tourists lining up alongside rios and canals cheer the racers. Visitors wishing to participate should have serious experience in rowing or sculling and practise duely, as the journey is physically demanding (even seasoned oarsmen develop calluses by the finish line). The event is mainly for teams, completing Voga Longa on a single oar is considered a major achievement. Extreme participation (scuba frogmen and surface swimmers) sometimes occurs, but it is not recommended due to water contamination issues. Late May.|fax= +39 041 5200771 }} === Opera and concerts === [[Venice/San Marco#Q223942|La Fenice Theatre]] in San Marco is one of the best opera houses in the world. Together with its second house, [[Venice/Cannaregio#Q3982047|Teatro Malibran]] in Canareggio, it stages seasons of opera, ballet, and symphony. Frequent Classical or opera performances are staged in churches and schools around the city at reasonable prices. In San Marco, look for the [[Venice/San Marco#Q223942|Scuola Grande di S.Teodoro]], [[Venice/San Marco#Do|Ateneo San Basso]], or [[Venice/San Marco#Do|Chiesa San Vidal]]. In Castello, you can hear Vivaldi's ''Four Seasons'' at the [[Venice/Castello#Do|Chiesa della Pietà]], where he taught and composed for 33 years. === Activities on a boat === [[File:Gondola, Venice.jpg|thumb|upright=1.6|Gondola]] ==== Gondolas ==== Riding a ''gondola'' along the canals with your own ''gondoliere'', the oarsmen who symbolizes the city, is one of the major joys of being in Venice. It's also one of the most expensive, as gondolier-for-hire business licences are limited to just 430 to 455 oarsmen in Venice, making the market artificially scarce and inflating prices. The gondoliers trade is shaped by 900 years of tradition: most are born locals, and it wasn't until 2010 that Venice got its first licensed female gondolier. Short trips of 30 minutes to an hour cost upwards of €100. A small comfort is that the price is per ride, and not per person. Most gondolas can accommodate between three and four people. Make sure you reach an agreement on price and time before you start in order to avoid unpleasant surprises. There are many tips on how to negotiate prices in guidebooks; some are pretty wild and even include walking away and letting them chase you. Whatever method you choose, bargaining with the gondolieres ''might'' knock €20-30 off the price. However, there's an informal habit among the oarsmen to cut the most interesting and little-known parts from the journey path for "discount" customers. Reduced rate riders get less marvel in exchange for a moderate price drop, which may not be worth it. ==== Vaporetto and traghetti ==== If you find spending hundreds of euros for a gondola to be a bit much, ride a ''vaporetto'' or ''traghetto'' instead. There are plenty of vaporetto lines that passe by interesting sights at a more manageable price of €5–10. Additionally, one can cross the canals on a traghetti, stripped down gondolas used as municipal ferries. In the 1950s there were as many as thirty, but now there are seven points to find them, with some only operating at rush hours. The length of any crossing is just a few minutes. Many visitors enjoy visiting the open air markets near the Rialto Bridge and there is a traghetto station there, at the '''Pescheria''' (fish market) joining the Santa Sophia church along the Strada Nova. You will notice that traghetti passengers tend to stand up, but if you are not comfortable doing so, sitting is possible, if you are careful. ==== Rowing clubs ==== Venice is home to several expensive rowing clubs. === Other === [[File:Cimitero, Venice.jpg|thumb|right|San Michele Cemetery Island, Cimitero stop]] Take a long and sunny walk along the Giudecca canal in [[Venice/Dorsoduro#Do|'''Zattere''']] in Dorsoduro, protected during winter time from cold northerly winds for being exposed to south and shielded by buildings. You might find interesting to see how a gondola is made, stopping by the '''Squero''' (Venetian for small ship yard) across the canal near San Trovaso Church. Spend a '''day on the islands''', mainly [[Murano]], [[Burano]] and Torcello. There are boat services to all these islands at scheduled times, including between the islands themselves. Be prepared for long lines and long waits for the boats between islands. The Glass Museum in [[Murano]] and the Lace Museum in [[Burano]] are certainly worth a visit. In [[Burano]] you will find some of the most picturesque streets and houses, with each house sporting a different pastel shade. Its really beautiful. Though there is not much to see in Torcello except for the old church, and the supposed "Throne of Atilla". However, the peace and tranquility of the island is not to be found anywhere else in Venice! Torcello is also home to a very expensive Cipriani restaurant. But just walking around on these islands is a nice enough experience. If you've had enough of the hype and the other tourists, hop off the vaporetto at 'Cimitero', Venice's graveyard for a peaceful walk. There are many famous tombs, and the section dedicated to deceased children is particularly haunting. There is also a free toilet there. While going through Venice, make sure you take in the beauty of it all. '''Walk''' through the alley ways, and take the water taxi to different parts of the island, sometimes at night you can just go sit in an open area and watch locals and tourists passing by. It is wonderful. There are many museums and churches that are around the city that allow tourists to go in a visit. They are many great sights to keep you busy throughout your visit. The “[http://www.visitmuve.it/en/home/ Secret Itineraries in '''Doge's Palace''']” worth a visit, take the visitor into the most secret and fascinating rooms in the Palace. It's better to book in advance. Because Venice is now pretty much only inhabited by tourists and people serving the trade, it gets very quiet by 21:00 and there is very little to do in the evening (outside of eating). There are a few exceptions, like some classical music '''concerts,''' which most probably only play Vivaldi. If you would like to have a '''guide''' to show up the highlights of Venice, you can choose between many offers. There are walking or boat tours, focused on shopping or history or for art lovers, and many itineraries. '''Take photos''', using your camera or phone on every corner of Venice will inspire you. And if you have taken good pictures, consider entering the photo competition [http://onedayinvenezia.com "OneDayInVenezia"], running all year round, awarding monthly winners, and dedicated to amateur photographers. The Grand Prize is a weekend in Venice, trip included. Send a '''postcard''' or even better, an entire '''letter''' dedicated to a loved one (the old "snail mail" one, not the electronic variety)! Venice has a long, celebrated tradition in postal services, paper and written communication in general (including one of the earliest medieval book printing houses). Venice it's also '''Riviera del Brenta''' old canals. The Riviera del Brenta is famous for its extraordinary Palladian villas along the Brenta river, its museums and historical buildings and it is 40 km (25 miles) from Venice. This Riviera and its mainland include 7 small cities: Stra, Fiesso d’Artico, Dolo, Fossò, Mira, Oriago and Malcontenta. These places are good for '''cycling excursions''' and to see antique Palladian Villas built on the Brenta river. In Stra village, there is the '''famous gardens of Villa Pisani''' and the '''museum of the shoes''' is in Villa Foscarini Rossi. In this last museum you can admire 1,500 models of Italian-made shoes created in local factories for major brands including Fendi, Genny, Yves Saint Laurent, Givenchy, Ungaro, Anne Kleyn, Richard Tyles and Vera Wang. In Dolo village you can visit the square, old watermill (XI century) and big open air market. * {{do | name=Teatro San Gallo | alt= | url=http://www.teatrosangallo.net | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 2412002 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Nov-Apr: 19:00, May-Oct: 20:00 | price=€39, seniors €35, students €25, children €15 | lastedit=2015-04-10 | content=Half-hour documentary based on the BBC series ''Francesco's Venice'' - an 'amazing film that puts the spectacular beauty of this great city in historical context'. Film in English, audioguides in Italian, Russian and Spanish. }} '''Football:''' [https://www.veneziafc.it/ Venezia FC] were relegated in 2025, so they now play soccer in Serie B, the second tier. Their Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo (capacity 11,000) is on Sant'Elena, connected by streets to the main east island. == Learn == Venice is home to two major (and expanding) public universities, '''[http://www.unive.it/pag/13526/ Università Ca' Foscari Venezia]''' and '''[http://www.iuav.it/ENGLISH/ Università Iuav di Venezia]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'''. There are possibly hundreds of smaller schools in the city. Neither university exploits its name for merchandising, and "Università degli Studi di Venezia" sweatshirts for sale at stalls are not only unlicensed, but there is no single university in the city with that name to begin with. == Buy == [[File:Venice - Mask gift shop - 3566.jpg|thumb|right|A Mask gift shop near Piazza San Marco]] [[File:Venedig Bücherladen Acqua alta-6216.jpg|thumb|Book store and antiquarian '''Libreria Acqua Alta''']] Venice has always been a city of merchants. Consequently, most of the Venetians working in Venice still own or work at a shop. The pride of the Republic of Venice was the extreme diversity and quality of goods and services which could be found in Venice. These days, however, mass tourism led Venice to be populated with many shops selling low-quality souvenirs. The local shops are suffering a lot from this situation and it is not easy to identify them within the crowd of shops selling harmful imported goods. Buying from the '''authentic local businesses''' has never been more important, as it is essential to the future of the Venetians and guarantees you to get the real thing and to have a much better experience of Venice. It is not easy, though. Thankfully, there is a social enterprise in Venice that works closely with the Venetian business owners (shops, restaurants and bars included). They have a certification process where the local artisan shops attest and commit to be selling products both authentic and sustainable as well as to give a 10% discount to the customers carrying a '''[http://veneziaautentica.com/become-friend Venezia Autentica Friends' Pass]{{Dead link|date=March 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' (buyable online for only {{EUR|10}}). Euronet runs the majority of ATMs within tourist areas, which carry both hefty ATM fees and extortionate exchange rates. To avoid the extortionate exchange rates, you should reject the first currency conversion offered to you, which will allow you to default to your bank's rate. When possible, you should use ATMs provided by actual banks and financial institutions. The Credit Agricole ATM machines are notable because they do not charge ATM fees or offer excessive currency conversion rates for most Visa Debit and Prepaid cards. If you've come to Venice thinking that you won't be able to do a bit of designer shopping, think again. Just like in every major Italian city, you get the big fashion brand names. For label clothing shopping, the best area is that around the Piazza San Marco, where you can find Versace, MaxMara, Gucci, Armani, Louis Vuitton, Prada (and numerous more) big names. If you want to shop for clothing or accessories, though, you don't necessarily have to shop through the biggest names in fashion. In the Campo Santo Stefano and Calle della Mandola, you can get less famous or local boutiques, but you can find some excellent quality and/or unique items such as clothes, shoes, wallets or handbags. Look for the hand-made paper and the exquisite miniature buildings made by Moro. Watch out for fakes; Moro "signs" his name on the back. Also, beware of fakes and "free" trips to neighbouring [[Murano]] for its famous glass. (See article for details.) Tourist traps: "Coloured Pasta" and "Venetian Limoncello" (not the original Napolitan one) are not Italian food, no Italian would ever eat them, they are particularly made for tourists. For typical regional Italian food in food shops, check the labels to discover where they have been made. Don't miss the '''Rialto''' market on San Polo, the smallest sestiere. The Rialto market is for shoppers. To the east is an area of small shops and restaurants; to the west is the Rialto farmers' market. Shopping is slightly less expensive than in the tourist-filled Piazza San Marco. == Eat == {{SeeDistricts}} [[Image:Venice Prosecco and Cicchetti.jpg|thumb|A plate of ''cicchetti'' and two glasses of prosecco, enjoyed al fresco.]] [[Image:Spaghetti al nero di seppia.jpg|thumb|''Sepe al nero'', cuttlefish cooked with their ink lagoon, a traditional Venetian dish.]] [[Image:"_05_-_ITALY_-_un_bacaro_a_Venezia_Osteria_appetizers_restaurant_in_Venice_wine_enoteca.jpg|thumb|A ''bacaro'' in Venice.]] Venice is home to a rich and distinct regional cuisine and there are numerous wonderful restaurants, including a few Michelin starred ones. However, the city is also home to many more mediocre eateries that will not shy away from serving you undercooked pasta for overinflated prices. This has led to it becoming widely regarded that the restaurants in Venice serve food of a quality and in quantities much lower than anywhere else in Italy. However, with a bit of caution and planning ahead you'll have many excellent experiences eating in Venice. Rule of thumb is that if there's a waiter outside pimping for business, it's probably best avoided! One of Venice's trademark foods is ''Sepe al nero'', cuttlefish and its ink. This intense black ink serves as a sauce and ingredient for polenta (corn meal), risotto (rice), and pasta. These dishes are normally indicated by the Italian words "nella seppia" (in cuttlefish), "alla seppia" (in the style of cuttlefish), or "nero di seppia," (black of the cuttlefish). For example, Polenta Nella Seppia is fried corn meal with the black ink of a cuttlefish. Despite the intensity in color, the ink has a surprisingly mild taste. Other Veneitian dishes include ''Fegato alla veneziana'', chopped liver, cooked with chopped onions and ''Sarde in saor'': fried sardines, dipped in fried onion, raisins and pine nuts, spices and vinegar. For snacks, Venice has its own version of tapas, the ''cicchetti''. Often paired with wine you will find that most restaurants and bars serve some variant of it. There are also many '''bacaros'' in Venice, a wine bar that serves a wide selection of cicchetti to go along. What Venice is not famous for is its pizza, Italy is a big country and pizza is generally more of a speciality in its southern parts. While there are restaurants serving it and some even do it acceptably, don't compare it to other parts of the country. If you really are craving for pizza, try the local chain [https://www.okevenezia.com/ '''Pizzeria Ae Oche''']. Meals are plentiful and prices reasonable, look to spend between €5-10 for a pizza depending on how exotic your selection is. For Americans, you can find a place called Quanto Basta pizza that serves an American-style pizza with pepperoni and french fries. Be careful when the prices are on a weight basis (typically by the "etto", abbreviated "/hg". or 100 g). One dish can easily contain 400g of fish or meat (almost a pound) - coming to 4 times the indicated base price! Restaurants might offer low prices for food on their menus that they advertise outside the entrance, but they will sometimes compensate this by charging high prices for drinks (which is naturally *not* advertised). €5 for 33 cl of beer is not uncommon. Le Bauta, an eatery on Fond del Gaffaro, is a good example. Also, please make sure that you get your change back after payment as sometimes it may be 'forgotten' by the waiters. === Budget === To save money at lunch, eat standing up - that's what Venetians themselves do. Every cafe, trattoria, osteria, enoteca or whatever it chooses to call itself is stocked at lunchtime with cicchetti - Venetian tapas, including tramezzini (triangular sandwiches on white bread), bite-sized rolls with various cold cuts, polpette (fried balls of minced fish or meat) and assorted antipasti. Order by pointing at what you want on the glass shelves, and wash the whole thing down with a glass of wine (un' ombra) or a spritz (made with, in order of bitterness and alcohol content, Aperol, Campari or Select). Bear in mind that as soon as you allow yourself to sit at the table and be waited on, instead of ordering and consuming your food at the counter, the prices for the same items go up - you can end up paying double. If you look at the (government-mandated) chart of prices stapled to the wall near the bar, you'll see 2 columns of numbers, accommodating this arrangement. However, sitting is worth it if you plan on staying a while. Some places will also serve free bread and water for seated patrons, but then there is usually also a small charge (€1-3 per person) for "pane e coperto" (bread and cover charge). There are a few supermarkets in the city, so if you are in the need to save some money, these are an option as they serve a wide array of prepared and semi-prepared food. On the main street from the station to the Rialto bridge there is a Coop and a Billa supermarket. There are still many small bakery shops and "biavaroli" where you can buy bread, cheese etc., particularly near the Rialto market area. For fresh fruit (including chilled coconut) watch out for the street market stalls. There is always a boat parked in the canal on campo San Barnaba selling fruit and vegetables into the late hours. If you want to buy water (Venice has excellent free tap water easily accessible at the numerous fountains located outside throughout the city) it is usually cheapest to get it at the supermarkets: there are Billa or Co-op stores located throughout the city, though supermarkets are often "disguised" in nondescript buildings in Venice for space limitations. Head to the Dorsoduro area of Venice if you want to save a few euros. It is located on the south side of the city. It has the highest concentration of places where locals, especially students, go to eat. Generally staying away from the main squares will be the cheapest option. If you're willing and able to walk around the town, some back streets offer the best food for the lowest price. Seeing the city from this vantage point is a lot of fun too! === Mid-range === <!-- entries with no prices and that look like spamvertizing will be deleted. See [[Talk:Venice#advert entries]] --> The Rialto food markets are an absolute must for fruit, vegetables and cheese, but most of all for the huge range of seafood, much of it fresh out of the lagoon and still moving! There are a variety of small stores around the city that sell fruits and vegetables, but tourists will be hard-pressed to find them. Anything else you will find in the one of the few supermarkets in the city. === Splurge === There are 6-7 Michelin star restaurants in Venice, with prices to match. Near the Rialto bridge there's a row of restaurants with tables by the canal, where you can have the quintessential Venice experience of dining by the canal lights. Although they do have waiters outside bugging you, some have pretty acceptable quality for price, which is almost always expensive anyway. === Ice cream === You will find ice cream all over the city, and you will hardly survive a hot summer day without it. Prices are €1.00-1.50 for one scoop, €2.50-3.50 for three scoops. == Drink == [[Image:20120704 170702 venezia 1584.jpg|thumb|Aperol Spritz, a small cicheti and gorgeous Venetian backdrop.]] [[Image:Bellini_at_Harry%27s_Bar.jpg|thumb|A classic ''Billini'', as served at Harry's Bar where it was invented.]] The typical local drink loved by all Venetians is ''Spritz'', which is a mix of liquor and Prosecco with sparkling water to top it off. Aperol Spritz is by far the most common but there are variants with Campari or Select too. Almost all bars in the city serves it with prices range from €5 to €12, depending on how close you are to the main tourist arteries. Spritz are usually paired with ''cicheti'', the Venetian version of tapas. Another famous drink is the '''Bellini''' was invented in Harry's Bar in Venice. It is a mix of white peach juice and Prosecco (the ubiquitous Venetian Champagne-like sparkling wine). Fermented at a low temperature Prosecco develops amylic aromas (fruit drops), though these perhaps mix better with fruit juices than does the more austere Champagne. Classic Bellinis should never be made with Champagne. Although by normal standards expensive, a Bellini in Harry's Bar (€17 for a 1.5 oz drink is obscene) is still much cheaper than on the terraces of similar '5-star' establishments in the city. A small '''Grappa''' is a common way to end meals, but be careful as it is brandy with 30 to 60 per cent alcohol. '''Beer''' in a small pub is about €5 for a pint (birra media). === Coffee === [[File:Venice - Cafe - 4125.jpg|thumb|right|A cafe in Piazza di San Marco.]] Coffee is everywhere in Venice, and both Venetians and the tourists avail themselves of the opportunities, usually by downing a quick dose at the counter (see warning about sit-down prices above). Rule of thumb: the bigger (and shinier) the espresso machine, the better the result. '''Espresso''', the real Italian, is about €1 at the bar, €2 at a table. * {{drink | name=E Rosa Salva | alt= | url=http://www.rosasalva.it/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=One of the favorites is the mini-chain "E Rosa Salva", with three locations in the center - on C. Fiubera (from Piazza San Marco, take the underpass in the middle of the arcade, cross the bridge and take second right off C. Fabbri), Merceria S. Salvadore (off the campo of the same name), and right on Campo San Zanipolo (to the right of the church looking from the canal); the last one is a gelateria as well. For your €1 you'll get exactly 2 and a half sips at the bottom of a small cup, with rich crema and no bitterness. Assorted house-made sweets are €1.10. }} === Nightlife === There are a number of fantastic bars in Venice, most are small places with lots of charm. Bars that stay open after 23:00 are clustered around a few late-night drinking areas in Venice. Notice that Piazza San Marco is not one of them, although it is very pleasant with many people wandering around late. The actual late night scene is in either '''Campo Santa Margherita''', where the student crowds from nearby the University Ca' Foscari in Dorsoduro hangs out; upscale '''Erbaria''' on the West side of the Rialto Bridge where the main vegetable market is held during the day and along '''Fondamenta de la Misericordia''' in [[Venice/Cannaregio|Cannaregio]]. The bars along Fondamenta de la Misericordia is anchored by ''Paradiso Perduto'', which features live music on most nights. There's usually youths cruising (in motor boats) along the canal, blaring Italian rap songs in Italian from the loudspeakers. Pub crawls are best planned in advance, as there's a real risk of wasting an hour or two wandering aimlessly in search of a watering hole that's open, especially midweek. Most bars close at 01:00, so make sure you notice which ones are open until 02:00 or 03:00. There's next to no night clubs in proper Venice, to get to those you have to follow the locals and head over the bridge into Mestre, or hop on the boat to Lido. Those looking for LGBT nightlife in Venice will be disappointed. Hop on the train to [[Padua]] instead. === Pubs === There are two Irish pubs in Venice. One is located along the '''Strada Nova''' in ''Cannaregio''; the other one is the '''Inishark''' just before ''Campo Santa Maria Formosa''. == Sleep == [[File:Palazzo Civran Venezia.JPG|thumb|The Palazzo Civran and Grand Canal at dusk. This 15th-century building that was substantially altered in the early 17th century now houses the Guardia di Finanza.]] Due to the historic city's constrained area and international popularity hotels are expensive. Bed and Breakfasts and guesthouses offer better rates. Real budget solutions (like camping and hostels) can be found in '''[[Mestre]] ''' (mainland Venice) and on the island of '''[[Lido]]'''. Alternative accommodation can also be found on the island of '''[[Murano]]'''. These are worth considering since historic centre is quite well-connected with buses and ferries, so staying further from the centre is not such a big problem, as for example it takes only 11 minutes to travel from Mestre to islands of Venice by train. In the last few years, holiday or short rentals apartments have increased in number and quality, now you can rent (minimum stay is usually 3 nights) a Palazzo on the Grand Canal as a little flat near Rialto. <!-- This is a huge city article, so detailed listings must be moved into the district articles. This article should only provide a brief overview. ====San Marco==== * {{sleep | name=Domus Ciliota | alt= | url=http://ciliota.it/ | email= | address=Calle delle Muneghe, San Marco 2976 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A 5-10 minute walk from San Marco's Square. The hotel has over fifty clean, basic, air-conditioned rooms all with shower and WC. The 24-hr reception is English speaking. There is an area for leaving baggage after you've checked out. Single rooms are €70-85 and doubles are €100-110 including breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Ala | alt= | url=http://hotelala.it/ | email= | address=Campo Santa Maria dei Gigli, San Marco 2494 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5208333 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 5206390 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double rooms from €110 | content=Eggs and broiled tomatoes with cheese for breakfast. Rooms were a typical size but clean, comfortable and quiet. They have turndown service at night, a pleasant surprise. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel All’Angelo Venice | alt= | url=http://hotelallangelovenice.com/ {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=San Marco 403 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5209299 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 2743555 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Run by the same family since 1924 in a 17th-century building close to St Marks Basilica. Comfortable and stylishly decorated rooms with a double somewhere in the region of €150. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Antico Panada | alt= | url=http://hotelpanada.it | email= | address=San Marco 646 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041-5209088 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041-5209619 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double room from €145 to €310 | content=Has rooms decorated in an 18th-century Venetian style. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Becher | alt= | url=http://hotelbecher.com | email= | address=San Marco 1857 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041-5221253 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041-5212685 | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= This 18th-century hotel enhanced by the most modern amenities, charming atmosphere and impeccable service. Single rooms from €70, doubles €110 and triples from €170. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Firenze Venice | alt= | url=http://www.hotel-firenze.com/index_en.html | email=info@hotel‑firenze.com | address=San Marco 1490 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5222858 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 5202668 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms start at around €120 a double/twin | content=On a side street of Piazza San Marco, and offers bright and comfortable rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Lisbona Venice | alt= | url=http://hotellisbonavenice.com/ | email= | address=San Marco 2153 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5286774 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 5207061 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Just in front of Piazza San Marco, three star rooms decorated in the grand Venetian style. Double rooms are usually around €140. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Montecarlo Venice | alt= | url=https://www.venicehotelmontecarlo.com/en/ | email= | address=Calle degli Specchieri, San Marco 463 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5207144 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 5207789 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rooms start at around €130 a double | content=3-star superior rooms and services one hundred yards from the entrance to Basilica San Marco. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel San Giorgio | alt= | url=http://sangiorgiovenice.com | email= | address=Rio Terà della Mandola, San Marco 3781 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5235835 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 5228072 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single rooms from €60, doubles from €90, triples from €120 | lastedit= | content=The hotel is between Campo Sant'Angelo and Campo Manin in an antique [[Gothic architecture|Gothic]] palace bought by Mariano Fortuny. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel San Moise Venice | alt= | url= | email= | address=San Marco 2058 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5203755 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 5210670 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Starting in the region of €120-140 for a double room | lastedit= | content=3-star hotel behind Piazza San Marco and the Basilica. }} * {{sleep | name=Pagan Luxury House | alt= | url=http://www.capagan.com/ | email=info@capagan.com | address=San Marco 3268 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041-2960584 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041-5236218 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double room from €120 | lastedit=2017-01-15 | content=According to their website, there is a €10 per night discount for booking directly with them. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Flora | alt= | url=http://www.hotelflora.it/ | email=info@hotelflora.it | address=San Marco 2283/A | lat= | long= | directions=behind Saint Mark's Square | phone=+39 041 5205844 | tollfree= | fax= | price=Rates start from €120 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Garden, free Wi-Fi, homemade buffet breakfast, fitness centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Novecento Boutique Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.novecento.biz/ | email= | address=San Marco 2683/84 | lat= | long= | directions=Calle del Dose, off Campo San Maurizio, between St. Mark's Square and the Accademia Gallery | phone=+39 041 2413765 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rates start from €120 | content=Has 9 rooms featuring original furniture and tapestries from both the Mediterranean and the Far East. }} * {{sleep | name=Locanda Orseolo | alt= | url=http://locandaorseolo.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A 3-minute walk from St. Peter's Square, operated by a multi-lingual Venetian family who offer impeccable concierge service. Room rates are generally €150 to €200. }} ====San Polo==== * {{sleep | name=Corte 1321 | alt= | url= | email= | address=San Polo 1321 | lat= | long= | directions=near the Rialto Bridge | phone=+39 041 5224923 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 0997849 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double rooms from €100 | lastedit= | content=Large spacious rooms with double sink bathrooms ensure a comfortable stay. Lovely courtyard for dining is made memorable with local birds strutting and cooing. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Marconi Venice | alt= | url= | email= | address=Riva del Vin, San Polo 729 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 52 22 068 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 52 29 700 | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit= | content=The hotel overlooks the Grand Canal and famous Rialto Bridge. It has been a hotel since the 1930 and has a very interesting art deco style, with rooms going for around €150, or for a little more with a canal view. }} ====Santa Croce==== * {{sleep | name=Hotel al Sole | alt= | url=http://www.alsolehotels.com/ | email= | address=Santa Croce 134/136 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041-2440328 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041-722287 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Doubles from €80 | content=Hotel is in a noble palace built in the beginning of the 15th century, a short distance from Piazzale Roma. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Basilea Venice | alt= | url=http://hotelbasileavenice.com/ | email= | address=Rio Marin, Santa Croce 817 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 718477 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 720851 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double rooms are usually €100-160 depending on season | content=Across the Grand Canal from Santa Lucia Train Station. Located in a quiet Calle. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Doge Venice | alt= | url=http://www.albergodoge.com/ | email= | address=Lista Vecchia dei Bari, Santa Croce 1222 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 2448752 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 5242192 | checkin= | checkout= | price= Double rooms start from €57. Family apartment for three people €97 | content=Three-star accommodation of Venice. It is in the northern part of the city, in front of the train station and presents 10 bedrooms – single, double and twin, some with a shared bathroom - and one apartment. }} ====Dorsoduro==== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Alla Salute | alt=also known as 'Da Cici' | url=http://www.salutepalace.com/ | email=info@salutepalace.com | address=Fondamenta Ca' Balà, Dorsoduro 222 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041-5235404 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041-5222271 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Doubles from €50 | content=A 16th-century palazzo, a stone's throw from Piazza San Marco. It has been the house of the famous poet Ezra Pound. Pretty comfortable and quiet budget hotel. Garden for breakfast. }} * {{sleep | name=Belle Arti Hotel Venice | alt= | url=http://www.hotelbelleartivenice.com/ | email= | address=Dorsoduro 912/A | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5226230 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 5280043 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double €220. Breakfast included for those who book online | content=Elegant three-star hotel. 67 guestrooms divided in double, triple and quadruple with en suite services, bathroom kit and modern services. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Palazzo Guardi | alt= | url=http://palazzoguardivenice.com | email= | address=Dorsoduro 995 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 2960725 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 7241067 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double room from €80 | content=A stone's throw from the Accademia, is this noble Venetian palace, rooms equipped with all comforts. }} ====Castello==== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Cà D'Oro | alt= | url=http://venicehotelcadoro.com | email= | address=Calle delle Rasse, Castello 4604 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 2411212 | tollfree= | fax=+39 041 2414385 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Singles from €60, doubles from €80 | content=The hotel is in a quiet corner of Cannaregio district, 5 minutes walk from the Rialto Bridge. }} --> == Connect == As of Sep 2021, Venice has 4G from Iliad and TIM, and 5G from Vodafone and Wind Tre. The city has been steadily building out the municipal Wi-Fi network, which now covers almost the entire area around the Grand Canal and some of the larger squares in the center. You can buy guest access at approximately €5 per day at the same unified Venezia Unica site where the transport and museum passes are sold. However if you only need occasional access, it may not be worth buying this as you can get free wifi at most accommodations and at a lot of the museums in Venice. Venice has several internet cafes, but they are much more expensive than the rest of Europe with prices for an hour of access around €6. Wi-Fi is only available at some of them. There's a wonderful pub, Cafe Blue in Dorsoduro, which has free (password-protected) wi-fi. Buy a spritz and a panini and go to town. At the Telecom Italia Future Centre in Campo San Salvatore (San Marco) you can browse for free for one hour, once registered with your ID card. To use an Internet cafe, buy a mobile SIM card or get a contract for an Internet connection. Personal identification is needed by law in Italy. Internet cafes will not let you use computers without a passport or national ID card. Calle Delle Botteghe on San Marco 2970 Venezia is a pretty art gallery type internet cafe with a book shop. It is on the expensive side with €3 for 15 min but you can just go in and play chess with a glass of wine. == Stay safe == Venice is considered a safe city. You have to take the habitual travellers' precautions however. Keep your valuable items (like wallet and passport) close to you because there are pickpockets, especially in more crowded parts of the city. In case of need, you can dial free of charge on any phone '''112''' (no area code needed) to contact Carabinieri or '''113''' (no area code needed) to contact the Police. Sometimes, in the evening and night hours, Campo Bella Vienna and Campo Santa Margherita are places for violence, so be careful if you stay here. Since 2024-2025 there are a lot of pickpockets, so you should avoid highly crowded areas. ==Stay healthy== Do not touch or swim in the extremely polluted water in the canals. Some of that water comes from the surrounding Venetian Lagoon, but the rest comes straight from toilets and kitchen sinks. Venice has begun to install septic tanks in buildings, but much of the city has not yet been upgraded and releases untreated sewage directly into the canals. Avoid bathing yourself, touching the water, immersing feet, etc. in the canals looking for refreshment in the hot season. Also, at night there is a risk of falling into the water, as there are many alleys which end in the water but have little or no lighting. In the warmest months, these conditions can sometimes generate foul odors. Choose other times to visit if they might ruin what should be a highly enjoyable stay. You can reach the emergency medical service dialing free of charge on any phone '''118''' (no area code needed, conversation will be recorded) to have assistance and an ambulance sent to you. Chemists' shops (Italian: ''Farmacie'') are all around the town. They are open 24 hr a day, 7 days a week on a rotational basis: outside the shop there's always the list of operating ones with timetables, address and phone number. If you need a special drug you might be asked to book it in advance if it's not in common use. Note that the commercial name or brand of your prescription might differ from your country of origin, and make sure that the medication you want is available in the EU. == Respect == Much of Venice's famous architecture is extremely old and showing the effects of being mishandled by the flood of tourists, some small fraction of whom behave as if they were in a modern holiday resort complex instead of an ancient city. To preserve the wonder of this city for future generations, everyone needs to treat the city's infrastructure as if you were in a large, open-air art museum. The city officials state that it is necessary to enforce rules that preserve the city's urban cleanliness and make sure visitors behave themselves. The following tips will come in handy: * '''Walk on the right side of the street'''; especially on narrower streets, you'll contribute to making your and other’s walk faster, safer, and tidier. Do it always, even if the street is empty: you never know if there is someone behind corner and you will end to hit him. Do not block the flow of traffic, especially on bridges. * '''Do not bathe, dive into, or swim in the canals'''; it is dangerous and unhealthy (the canals are the city's ancient open-air sewage system, and you risk being hit by motorboat traffic). Violations are subject to fines up to €350 and being banned from the city for the next 48 hours, even if you have a prepaid hotel room and non-refundable tickets to events. More information is available on [https://www.comune.venezia.it/en/content/enjoyrespectvenezia #EnjoyRespectVenezia website]. * '''Do not walk around bare-chested or in swimwear'''; this is punishable by a fine of up to €250. * '''Do not sit down or lie down''' on the ground, on monuments, on steps, on bridges, on buildings (or even lean against them), or sit in public on anything else except chairs and benches made for this purpose, and especially '''do not sit on the ground to eat'''. Picnics are banned in all public areas. They are punishable by a fine of €100–200, and the police can immediately ban you from the area. If you need to rest or want to watch the people going by, look for one of Venice's bright red public benches to sit (but not lie down) on. * '''Do not camp or sleep in public areas'''; the fine is €200, and the police will immediately ban you from the area. * '''Do not feed the birds''' or other wildlife and '''do not litter'''; the fines go up to €500. It may seem strange that feeding the birds has a higher potential fine than disrespectful stunts like climbing on top of a monument, but the city is located inside a fragile wetlands ecosystem, so please exercise more than the usual care. The municipality of Venice maintains an up-to-date list of rules and regulations in English and several other langues at their [https://www.comune.venezia.it/en/content/enjoyrespectvenezia '''official website''']. == Cope == === Orientation === The unfortunate side-effect of the small alleys which make Venice such a delight to visit is that it is remarkably easy to get lost. Even maps provided by hotels are frequently inaccurate, and the maze-like structure of the city can become very confusing. The tight cluster of little islands that comprise Venice is completely surrounded by the Lagoon, so it is not possible, no matter how lost you become, to leave Venice on foot. Sooner or later you will come upon a piazza that you can locate on your map. One tip: as you cross bridges, note the house numbers before and after. A small change probably means you are on the same island/district and have crossed a "new" canal. A major change means you are now on another island. Most maps clump islands together into their voting districts, there are many more islands than districts. One piece of assistance is to look for directional signs. These will be marked "Per" and then with the name of a prominent location or bridge in the city, complete with an arrow pointing in the relevant direction. Hence, to get to the Rialto bridge, the signs to follow are marked "Per Rialto". Those to St Mark's Square read "Per S Marco", and those to the train station "Per Ferrovia" (there are some others as well). Having oriented yourself to the nearest landmark, direction-finding can thus become (slightly) easier. Remember, though, that the signs to read are the ''official'' ones. Graffiti will occasionally give other directions, frequently incorrect ones. That said, some argue that getting lost in Venice is part of the experience of the city. The number of photogenic canals, hidden restaurants and shops where glass blowing is done almost guarantees that there is no such thing as a "dull neighbourhood". Additionally, the public transport means that it is relatively easy to arrive at the intended destination even after one has emerged from the web of alleys in a totally unexpected place. === Overcrowding === While Venice may not get more tourists than other famous [[Italy|Italian]] destinations such as [[Rome]] and [[Florence]], the narrowness of streets and open areas may at times make Venice feel ''uncomfortably'' crowded during (but not only) the peak seasons, at the San Marco ''sestiere'', the surroundings of the Rialto bridge and the streets leading from Venezia Santa Lucia and Piazzale Roma to San Marco. Walking by itself can be difficult, let alone snapping a good photo, using a public lavatory, or sitting at a decent cafe or restaurant. To avoid the worst of the crowds, unless it is winter, try to visit the San Marco and Rialto bridge areas during early morning and late evening. During the late morning and afternoon, stay away as far as possible from this area, for instance walking around west Santa Croce, north Cannaregio, eastern Castello and Giudecca. Alternatively, take day trips to places outside central Venice such as [[Burano]], the [[Lido]], [[Padua]] or [[Vicenza]], or simply take the opportunity to refresh in your hotel. === Useful telephone numbers === * {{listing | name=Police (emergency call) | phone=113 }} * {{listing | name=Carabinieri (emergency call) | phone=112 }} * {{listing | name=First Aid (emergency call) | phone=118 }} * {{listing | name=Venice Hospital | phone=+39 041 5294111 }} * {{listing | name=Medical Service on Duty | phone=+39 041 5294060 }} * {{listing | name=Tourist Information | phone=+39 041 5298700 }} * {{listing | name=Gondola Service San Marco | phone=+39 041 5200685 }} * {{listing | name=Gondola Service Rialto | phone=+39 041 5224904 }} * {{listing | name=Gondola Service Danieli | phone=+39 041 5222254 }} * {{listing | name=Airport San Marco Information | phone=+39 041 2609260 }} * {{listing | name=Airport San Marco Lost and Found Office | phone=+39 041 2609222 }} * {{listing | name=Railway information | phone=892021 (in country only) }} * {{listing | name=Railway Lost and Found Office | phone=+39 041 785531 }} === Consulates === Most of the consulates listed here are only honorary consulates, so can only offer limited consular services. If you need any serious help, try visiting [[Milan]], where larger consulates can sometimes be found; however, it will usually be easier to visit the Italian capital, [[Rome#Embassies|Rome]], where most countries' embassies are found. * {{flag|Australia}} {{listing | name=Australia| url=http://dfat.gov.au/about-us/our-locations/missions/Pages/australian-consulate-in-venice-italy.aspx| email=mc@castelbrando.it | address=Via della Libertà, 12 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5093061 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Austria}} {{listing | name=Austria| url= | email=consolato.austria@zoppas.com | address=Santa Croce, 251 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 5240556| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Belgium}} {{listing | name=Belgium| url= | email=piero.reis@sgpaa.lu | address=Dorsoduro, 3464 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 5242944| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Czech Republic}} {{listing | name=Czech Republic| url=http://www.mzv.cz/jnp/en/diplomatic_missions/czech_missions_abroad/italy_honorary_consulate_of_the_czech_2.html | email=venice@honorary.mzv.cz | address= Cannaregio, 3821| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 2413984| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Denmark}} {{listing | name=Denmark| url= | email=covedk@hotmail.com | address=Santa Croce, 466/g | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 2413984 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Finland}} {{listing | name=Finland| url= http://formin.finland.fi/public/default.aspx?contentid=330512&contentlan=2&culture=en-US| email=finland.consulate.venice@gmail.com | address= Rio dei Scudi 2654/A| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 347 1245016| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|France}} {{listing | name=France| url= | email=cfvenise@yahoo.fr | address= Castello, 6140| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 5224319| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany| url= | email=venedig@hk-diplo.de | address= Santa Croce, 251| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5237675 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Greece}} {{listing | name=Greece| url= | email=grcon.ven@mfa.gr | address= Castello 4683/C| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 5237260| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Lithuania}} {{listing | name=Lithuania| url= | email=info@consolatodilituania.venezia.it | address=Santa Croce, 764 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5241131 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Luxembourg}} {{listing | name=Luxembourg| url= | email=conslux@fastwebnet.it | address=Castello, 5312 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 5222047| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Malta}} {{listing | name=Malta| url= | email=maltaconsul.venice@gov.mt | address=Piazzale l.da Vinci, 8, Mestre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 3969100| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Mexico}} {{listing | name=Mexico | alt= | url= | email=consuladodemexico.venecia@service.net | address=Santa Marta, Fabbricato, 17 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 2712642 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Monaco}} {{listing | name=Monaco| url= | email=consmonaco.venise@tin.it | address= San Polo. 747| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 5223772| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Netherlands}} {{listing | name=Netherlands| url= | email=cons.paesibassi.ve@libero.it | address=San Marco, 2888 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 5283416| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Nederlands Consulaat in Venetië IMG20230828154244.jpg | content= }} * {{flag|Norway}} {{listing | name=Norway| url= | email=consolato.norvegia.ve@longanesicattani.it | address= Santa Croce, 466/b| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 5231345| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Portugal}} {{listing | name=Portugal| url= | email=perchidoni@yahoo.it | address= San Marco, 1747| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 5223446| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Russia}} {{listing | name=Russia| url= | email= | address= San Marco, 4718/a| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 04 12418879| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Spain}} {{listing | name=Spain| url= | email= | address= San Polo, 2646| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 5233254| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Sweden}} {{listing | name=Sweden| url= http://www.swedenabroad.com/en-GB/Embassies/Rome/Contact/Embassy--Consulates/#Venice| email=consolato.svezia.venezia@gmail.com | address= Sestiere Cannaregio 166| lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5225489 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Switzerland}} {{listing | name=Switzerland| url= https://www.eda.admin.ch/countries/italy/en/home/representations/honorary-consulates/consulate-venice.html| email=venezia@honrep.ch | address= Dorsoduro, 810| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 5225996| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|Turkey}} {{listing | name=Turkey| url= | email=consolatoturchia@bassani.it | address=Santa Marta, Fabbricato 17 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+39 041 5230707 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States| url=https://it.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/milan/consular-agency-venice/ | email=USCitizensVenice@state.gov | address=Venice Marco Polo Airport, Via Galileo Galilei, 30 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +39 041 5415944| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} === Post offices === * Venezia Centro: San Marco. Sottoportico delle Acque 5016 * Venezia 1: Cannaregio, Lista di Spagna 233 * Venezia 3: San Polo, Campo San Polo 2012 * Venezia 4: San Marco, Calle Larga de l'Ascension 1241 * Venezia 5: Castello, Calle Barbaria delle Tole 6674 * Venezia 8: Giudecca, Fondamenta Sant'Eufemia * Venezia 9: Castello, Via Garibaldi 1641 * Venezia 10: Dorsoduro, Zattere Fondamenta al Ponte Longo 1507 * Venezia 11: Sant'Elena, Viale 4 Novembre 23/24 * Venezia 12: Santa Croce, Fondamenta Santa Chiara 411 * Venezia 13: Cannaregio, Calle dele Cooperative snc * Murano: Fondamenta Navagero 48 * Burano: Fondamenta Terranova 162 * Lido di Venezia: Via Doge Domenico Michiel 1 * Malamocco: Campo Chiesa 1 == Go next == [[Metropolitan Venice]] has many interesting destinations far from the Venetian crowds. Around the Venetian lagoon are other smaller islands, which have since been deserted but are worth a visit. There is also the Lido, which is a long narrow island with more modern buildings, hosting a youth hostel and a hotel. * [[Burano]] — Island famous for lace, textiles and colorfully painted houses. * [[Lido]] — The island of tranquility, a beach district 10 minutes by boat from San Marco, and where the Venice movie festival is held. * [[Mestre]] — Town in the mainland, but still a part of Venice. * [[Murano]] — Nearby island famous for its glassware. * [[San Lazzaro]] — Nearby island with Armenian monastery and impressive art collection, some world class pieces. * [[Torcello]] — Nearby island with a 7th-century basilica church and an archeological museum. * Riviera del Brenta &mdash; Palladian villas around Brenta River, 20 minutes from Venice by car, or you can get there via biking tours with a local bike hire shop. * [[Lake Garda]] — An easy day trip by train, it is Italy's largest lake and stunning in scenery. * [[Po Delta]] — Peaceful and scenic marshy area southwest of Venice with bike trails. * [[Eraclea]] — Typical for its pinewood and Laguna del Mort, 55 minutes from Venice by car or by boat. * [[Jesolo]] — Jesolo is one of the most important beaches in Italy, just 45 minutes from Venice by car or by boat (ferry from Treporti to Venice). * [[Padua]] (It. Padova) — 40&nbsp;km west of Venice, home to the Basilica of St. Anthony, the Scrovegni Chapel, and the oldest Botanical Gardens in the world, among others. * [[Cortina d'Ampezzo]] — Lovely alpine town, site of 1956 Winter Olympic Games. Great mountain scenery, might be very expensive. A couple of hours of car ride to the north of Venice, more than 3 hours by train and bus. {{Related|Venice with children}} {{Related|Ferries_in_the_Mediterranean}} {{IsPartOf|Metropolitan Venice}} {{Geo|45.4386111|12.3266667|zoom=13}} {{Guidecity}} 7ysq91vy53zcqmoa004pv79w98puulc 0 38036 5091143 4067271 2025-07-11T02:01:40Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* See */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091143 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Villanueva de Sigena''' is a village of about 400 people (2018) in [[Aragon]]. The Monastery of Santa María de Sigena is about 5 km south of the village. ==Understand== Villanueva de Sigena or Villanueva de Sijena is a small village in Los Monegros, in the province of [[Huesca]], autonomous community of Aragon (Spain), near the Alcanadre river. Villanueva de Sigena is the birthplace of the physician and heterodox theologian, Michael Servetus (1511-1553). Servetus was the discoverer of pulmonary circulation. A museum and interpretation centre is maintained by the Michael Servetus Institute at the old house were Servetus was born, after a major restoration in 2002. ==Get in== It is possible to travel to Villanueva by bus or car. ==Get around== The town is small enough to be fully accessible by foot. There are several free parking spaces around the town. ==See== [[File:Monasterio de Sigena - Vista general 01.jpg| right|thumb| The Monastery of Santa María de Sigena]] * {{see | name=The Royal Monastery of Santa María de Sigena | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=5 km south | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3572674 | lastedit=2020-09-21 | content=A convent built between 1183 and 1208, with a Romanesque church. Artworks include the royal tombs of Sancha and Peter of Castile, while the former abbess' throne is in the Diocesan and Comarcal Museum of Lleida. }} *'''Michael Servetus Institute ''' ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Casa Helvética | url=http://www.casahelvetica.com/ | email= | address=C/ Diputación Provincial, 13. | lat= | long= | directions=in the centre of the town | phone= +34 658 991 478 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=There are three beautifully decorated rural tourism apartments available. Open all year round. }} ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Aragon}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|41.715277777778|-0.0088888888888889|zoom=17}} 75x8wn7byukmfm35q6nmfz51do4yykv 0 38060 5091372 5089086 2025-07-11T11:28:11Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* By plane */ bus stop 5091372 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Vilnius banner.jpg|caption=Town hall square (Rotušės aikštė)|unesco=yes|dotm=yes}} '''Vilnius''' is the capital and largest city of [[Lithuania]]. It has a beautiful baroque Old Town, listed as a {{UNESCO}}, and excellent tourist facilities in all price ranges. It stands on the River Neris in the southeast pocket of the country, the [[Dzūkija]] region, and in 2023 had a population of 629,000. == Understand == [[File:Gediminas Tower in Vilnius (cropped).jpg | thumb | Gediminas Tower ]] Vilnius has been central to the country's life for as long as there has been Lithuania, but that has often been a tragic tale. Its Neolithic people traded in Baltic amber. In the early Middle Ages five petty kingdoms combined into two then one, when Mindaugas in 1253 became Lithuania's first king and noble Christian convert. The country splintered after his assassination but was re-united under Gediminas, who established Vilnius castle — in legend on the site where a wolf in a dream told him to build. But the real wolves were his neighbouring countries, and finding a powerful ally meant adopting their religion. Poland was the best bet and a dynastic marriage in 1486 united the crowns, later the nations, and Lithuania became Roman Catholic. Vilnius Old Town was largely built in the following 150 years. This united [[Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth]] grew almost to the Black Sea, but all the power and money shifted to Poland. Like Hungary in the Austro-Hungarian Empire or Ireland within Britain, Lithuania was the poor country cousin. And then Poland fell, with its territory carved up between Prussia, Austria and Russia, and others snatching what they could. Lithuania became a territory of the [[Russian Empire]]. Poland and Lithuania only regained independence after the First World War, and almost at once were at war with each other and with Russia. Vilnius was captured and from 1920 was a Polish exclave, and the Lithuanian capital moved to Kaunas. In the run-up to the Second World War Russia (as the [[Soviet Union]]) again seized the territory. This history meant that when Nazi Germany invaded in 1941, they found many local supporters, and the Jewish population of Vilnius was slaughtered. Postwar the Soviet iron fist clutched Lithuania, until 1991 when civil unrest and the collapse of the USSR enabled the country to seize independence. It looked west for allies, adopting capitalism, joining NATO and the European Union, and — crucially for travellers — welcoming the budget airlines. All this has made Vilnius a friendly, tourist-oriented city, with a wealth of sights reflecting its layers of history. '''Tourist information:''' [https://www.govilnius.lt/visit-vilnius Go Vilnius] have a kiosk at the airport and another in Cathedral Square, both open daily 10:00-19:00. They speak good English and are helpful with maps, brochures, tours and suggestions, but they don't book accommodation === Climate === {{Climate|units=Metric|description=Source: [http://worldweather.wmo.int/105/c00204.htm World Meteorological Organization]|janhigh=-1.7|febhigh=-0.5|marhigh=4.4|aprhigh=12.6|mayhigh=18.4|junhigh=21.7|julhigh=23.8|aughigh=23.1|sephigh=17.4|octhigh=10.2|novhigh=3.7|dechigh=-0.3|janlow=-5.9|feblow=-5.6|marlow=-2.7|aprlow=2.6|maylow=7.5|junlow=11.1|jullow=13.6|auglow=12.7|seplow=8.5|octlow=3.7|novlow=-0.1|declow=-4.1|janprecip=38.9|febprecip=34.4|marprecip=37.0|aprprecip=46.2|mayprecip=52.1|junprecip=72.7|julprecip=79.3|augprecip=75.8|sepprecip=65.2|octprecip=51.5|novprecip=51.5|decprecip=49.2}}Far from moderating Atlantic, Vilnius winter is extremely cold and temperatures often stay below freezing day after day. Temperatures often reach -25ºC (-13 °F) in the months of January and February, freezing all the rivers and lakes around the city. Summers are warm to hot, with heat waves that send temperatures to rise above 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is relatively equal throughout the year; there is never a completely dry month, although summer is the wettest time in Vilnius. Early summer and autumn are good times to visit, but Vilnius is a year-round destination, and even overcast and gray days have their compensations, when everyone feels in league united against the weather. == Get in == {{Mapframe | 54.683 | 25.286 | height=600 | width=550 | zoom=14}} === By plane === {{go | name=Vilnius Airport | alt={{IATA|VNO}} | url=https://www.vilnius-airport.lt/en/ | email= | address=Rodunios kelias 10a | lat=54.637 | long=25.288 | directions=6 km south of city centre | phone=+370 612 44442 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Vilnius Airport | wikidata=Q847711 | lastedit=2023-02-15 | content=The principal airport in Lithuania, with flights from most major airports in north Europe and the Med; destinations further out include Keflavik, Istanbul, Tel Aviv and Red Sea resorts. There are no flights within Lithuania, it's too small, but you can fly here from Riga and Tallinn. Most flights are by budget airlines. The airport has the standard facilities including car hire. }} '''To and from the airport:''' '''Buses''' leave from outside Arrivals every 15-30 min and take 15 min to go downtown. Simplest is to buy a €1 single ticket by card, and you might pay extra for bulky luggage. "Get around" below describes other ticket deals, such as the smart card ''Vilniečio kortelė'' — buy it from the Narvesen kiosk next to Arrivals. * [http://stops.lt/vilnius/#bus/1/a-b/map/en Bus 1] runs from the airport (''Oro uostas'') to the central bus and railway stations (''Stotis''). * [http://stops.lt/vilnius/#bus/2/a-b/map Bus 2] runs via LFF football stadium to the stations. : Coming back on these, wait at Stop H between the stations, which has a real-time display. * [http://stops.lt/vilnius/#bus/88/a-b/2613/map/en Bus 88] runs via the football stadium, Gate of Dawn (200 m from stations) and MO Museum to Konstitucijos Prospekt and Europa Square in the business district north of the river. * [http://stops.lt/vilnius/#nightbus/88n/a-b/2613/map/en Night Bus 88N] runs every 30 min 23:30–05:30 by the same route. This is the only night service at the airport. * [http://stops.lt/vilnius/#expressbus/3g/b-a/2613/map/en Bus 3G] runs via Lukiškės Square (west of Old Town) and Konstitucijos Prospekt in the business district to the northern suburb of Fabijoniškės. The G indicates express, ''Greitasis''. * '''Other cities:''' [https://www.ollex.lt/ Ollex] is a not-very-direct bus from the airport to Kaunas, where the pick-up and drop off is at the filling station on Savanoriu prospekt, northeast edge of the city. The bus continues to Klaipėda. Ecolines bus to Minsk and Toks bus to Kaunas, Klaipėda and Palanga also run via the airport. '''By train''' — From the airport to the main railway station every two hours, taking 8 minutes. Buy on board from the conductor for €0.80, and you might have to pay a few cents extra if you have bulky luggage. '''By taxi''' — In the rank outside Arrivals, they have capped rates. To the stations in 2023 is €13 daytime, €15 night; to Old Town is €18 daytime, €21 night. '''On foot''' — With light luggage, decent weather and an hour to spare, it's 4 km to walk to the railway and bus stations and another 1 km into Old Town. From the terminal, follow the broad Felikso Vaitkaus gatve for 200 m. Turn right, heading north on Dariaus ir Gireno gatve — it's busy but has a sidewalk. This comes into downtown across a railway bridge, turn right (east) for stations and Old Town or continue straight ahead for places west of Old Town. '''[[Kaunas#Get in | Kaunas]] Airport''' ({{IATA|KUN}}) is 100 km west of Vilnius and 14 km northeast of downtown Kaunas. It has budget flights by Ryanair and Wizz, but fewer than Vilnius. [https://www.ollex.lt/ Ollex] is a direct bus from Kaunas airport to Vilnius (90 min, three per day, €15), where the pick-up / drop off is at Panorama Hotel opposite the railway and bus stations. Otherwise take Kaunas local bus 29 downtown for frequent buses and trains to Vilnius. === By train === [[File:Kaiser Wilhelm II in Vilna 1915.jpg | thumb | 300px | The Kaiser arrives by train in 1915 ]] From Poland a daily train runs from [[Kraków]] at 04:00 via [[Warsaw]] Centralna at 07:30 to reach the border towards 15:00. Here you change to the Lithuanian train for Kaunas at 16:30 and Vilnius at 17:30. If you fly into Warsaw, you can take any train to [[Białystok]] then join the cross-border train at a more congenial 10:30 next morning. The westbound train sets off from Vilnius at noon. One train a day is from Tallinn in Estonia via Riga in Latvia, reservations essential. It runs from [[Tallinn]] at 10:25 via [[Tartu]], [[Valga]], [[Riga]] around 16:40, then [[Jelgava]], Joniškiso, [[Šiauliai]] and Kaišiadorys to arrive in Vilnius at 21:00. The eastbound train leaves Vilnius about 07:00 reaching Riga by 11:00 and Tallinn around 17:30. From [[Belarus]] and the Russian exclave of [[Kaliningrad Oblast]] all trains are suspended since 2019, but buses still run from Minsk. From [[Kaunas]] trains run hourly, daily 05:00-22:30, taking 90 min. The trains are usually Czech double-deckers. From [[Klaipėda]] five trains run daily, taking 4 hr 30 min. {{go | name=Vilnius railway station | alt= Vilniaus geležinkelio stotis | url= | email= | address=16 Geležinkelio | lat=54.6703 | long=25.2844 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q453936 | lastedit=2023-02-15 | content=The station is just south of Old Town Gate of Dawn, next to the bus terminal and a small shopping mall with cafes. It has a helpful ticket office, waiting room, and coin-operated luggage lockers in the basement (not accessible 24 hours). On the second floor there's a railway museum (see below). }} === By bus === [[File:Vilnius Cathedral 2014.jpg | thumb | 300px | Vilnius Cathedral ]] Buses from Warsaw take 8-9 hours via [[Białystok]] and [[Kaunas]], for a fare in 2023 of €30. They continue to [[Riga]], another 4-5 hours. From Tallinn you may need to change in Riga, or the bus may take a rest stop there then continue. Buses from [[Minsk]] are still running in 2023, taking 4 hr 30 min. Those from Kaliningrad have been suspended since 2022. Buses from Kaunas run every 15 min, taking 90 min for a fare of €9; see above for the bus from Kaunas airport. From Klaipėda they run every hour or so, taking 4-5 hours, for €25. See individual town pages for other starting points across Lithuania. Bus operators include [http://www.eurolines.lt/en/ Eurolines], [http://www.ecolines.net/en/ Ecolines], [http://luxexpress.eu/en Lux Express] and Flixbus. '''Vilnius bus station''' is next to the railway station. === By road === From Poland follow E87 to [[Marijampolė]] then turn east on A7 / A16. From Riga follow E87 south to [[Panevėžys]] then A2. From [[Klaipėda]] and [[Kaunas]] follow A1 east. These are fast four-lane highways, usual speed limit 130 km/h summer, 110 km/h winter, and kept open in bad weather. == Get around == === On foot === Walking is your only choice in Old Town. The old streets are pedestrianised, and even taxis avoid it. === By bus === [[File:Vilneicio kortele front.jpg | thumb | 300px | A Vilniečio kortelė smart card ]] [https://judu.lt/en/ JUDU] is the portal for city buses and trolleybuses, with timetables, route maps and travel planners in English. There are no trams or metro / suburban railways, but see above for the airport train. For an overview of the routes, see the [https://judu.lt/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Vilnius-City-Public-Transport-Map.pdf Vilnius City Public Transport Map]. There are some 90 standard bus routes (marked in blue; numbers mostly between 1 and 100), six express buses (in green; from 1G to 6G) and 14 trolleybuses (in red; between 1 and 20). The numbers overlap, but e.g. bus 3, express bus 3G and trolleybus 3 run entirely different routes. They run 05:30-23:00. There are separate night buses including the route 88N cross-town from the airport via Railway station to Europa Square. A single ticket for bus or trolleybus costs €1.25 in 2025, [https://judu.lt/en/contactless-payment-on-public-transport/ purchased by contactless payment] only and no discounts. It is valid for 60 minutes. There are two mobile apps available for the purchase of public transportation tickets: m.Ticket (requires a local phone number?) and Trafi. Single tickets cost €1 for 30 minutes or €1.25 for 60 minutes of validity. Trafi is available in English and you can register a foreign debit/credit card (as long as the SMS confirmation code comes through). Minimum purchase in Trafi is €5. You can load up on several single tickets in Trafi (e.g., 10 x 30-min single tickets for a total of €8.50) and you can also activate several tickets at the same time (for a group). You can also buy a 24-hour ticket for €7.50, a 72-hour ticket for €13.50, 30-day ticket for €38 etc. All tickets can also be loaded on a smart card called the [https://judu.lt/en/for-public-transport-passengers/vilniecio-kortele-vilnius-resident-card/ JUDU card] or ''Vilniečio kortelė'' (old name), for an upfront payment of €1.50 (plus any tickets you want to top up the card with). For instance, a full-fare 24-hour ticket costs €5 and a 72-hour one is €8. Validate the ticket by swiping the smart card over the yellow electronic reader on the bus, which starts the clock running. Seniors over 70 years get 50% discount, and European Union students get 80% discount. Show your ISIC or ID card or passport when buying the smart card and in case of ticket control during the trip. Buy or top-up the JUDU card at ''Lietuvos spauda'' and ''Narvesen'' kiosks (for instance at the airport), at Maxima and RIMI grocery stores, or at JUDU's own [https://judu.lt/en/customer-service-centres/ Customer Service Centers] (located at Railway Station, Vincas Kudirka Square and Vilnius City Municipality Building). [https://www.govilnius.lt/visit-vilnius/get-vilnius-pass Vilnius Pass] is a tourist card which may include public transport on its 72-hour pass, but not on the 24 or 48-hour passes. You will struggle to break even on any of these, however many museums you rush around. The 72-hour pass is €66 with transport and €56 without. === By taxi === [[Image:trys kryziai.jpg | thumb | 300px | Three Crosses ]] See above for taxi rates from the airport. There are half a dozen taxi and ride-sharing services, which include [https://www.1820.lt/ Taksi 1820], [https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/vilnius/ Uber], [http://www.jazzexpress.lt/ Jazzexpress] and [https://a2b.lt/ A2B]. Cars are new and have debit / credit card readers. Smartphone and internet booking systems include Uber, eTAKSI, [https://bolt.eu/ Bolt] and [https://taxi.yandex.lt/en_lt/ Yandex]. Street taxis may charge twice as much as those hired by phone or app: try dialling the number on the vehicle you see, tell the dispatcher the address you're at, and you will likely get the same car for a lower price. All taxis must have a yellow licence plate starting with the letter '''T''' with an additional five numbers and a "Taksi" sign on the roof. A detailed price list alongside the driver's taxi-operator license must be placed on the panel right in front of the passenger seat next to the driver. A €0.50-1 tip for the driver is customary. === By car === Not in Old Town! The spine of it is traffic-restricted, and parking is scarce and time-limited - not long enough to enjoy any sights. Further out is snarled during rush hour (07:00-09:00 and 16:00-18:30). If you plan to tour the country, see the city by walking or public transport then pick up a rental car later. There's a dozen rental companies including Hertz, Enterprise, Europcar and Sixt. [https://judu.lt/en/for-drivers/parking-lots-in-vilnius/ JUDU] details the parking places in the city, and there are Park & Rides around its fringes. [https://www.citybee.lt/ City-Bee]{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} is a car-share where you can rent a car by the minute - use your phone to unlock it. There is no contract or monthly fee, you pay for the service only when you use the car (say €8 per hour), and there are no parking fees when you are not using it. There are 13 pick-up points across the city, mostly in the centre. === By bicycle === You might cycle to outlying sites, but this will be on-road, and local motorists don't pay much regard to bike lanes. The only continuous cycle path is north along the River Neris to Verkiai nature park. Other routes are fragmentary. [https://www.cyclocity.lt/en/home Cyclocity] is a self-service bike-rental scheme. However in Feb 2023 short-term subscriptions are suspended, and they only offer longer deals suitable for regular commuters. [https://velotakas.lt/en/home/ Velotakas] have bike rental and lead city tours. They're at Stulginskio 5 g., tel +370 618 45727, open daily 10:00-18:00. == See == [[File:Pilies gatvė 04(js) Vilnius.jpg | thumb | 300px | Pilies gatve in Old Town]] <!--Could use a paragraph or two about the types of attraction you can expect in different parts of the city--> [https://www.govilnius.lt/visit-vilnius/get-vilnius-pass Vilnius Pass] is a tourist discount card which in 2023 costs €37 for 24 hours, €47 for 48 hours and €56 for 72 hours. This excludes public transport and is frankly poor value, you'll struggle to break even. === Old town north === : This starts from the castle and cathedral, and stretches south along Pilies gatve. Halfway down the main street becomes Didžioji, and this area is described below as Old Town south. In 1994 the entire Old Town was added to the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]]. * {{see | name=Gediminas Castle | alt= | url=https://lnm.lt/muziejai/gedimino-pilies-bokstas/ | email= | address=Arsenelo 5 | lat=54.6868 | long=25.2915 | directions=Lane from south or funicular from north side | phone=+370 5 261 7453 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-20:00 | price=Tower adult €8, conc or child €4 | wikipedia=Gediminas' Tower | wikidata=Q1497616 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=This is the Upper Castle of a complex of three built from the 13th century, much bashed about, and abandoned from the 16th. (The Lower Castle became the site of the Arsenal, Palace and Cathedral, and the "Crooked Castle" was destroyed in 1394.) You can ascend the cobbled lane and enter the courtyard free for views of the city, and the Three Crosses on the hill east. The ducal palace east side of the courtyard is just a shell, converted into a performance space. West side is the three storey red brick tower, now a museum. }} * {{see | name=Old Arsenal | url=https://lnm.lt/en/museums/the-old-arsenal/ | email= | address=Arsenalo 3 |lat=54.6882 | long=25.2916 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=Adult €5, child €2.50 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=This arsenal in the Lower Castle was built in the 15th century and stored heavy artillery. It's now part of the National Museum, displaying the country's pre-history and early history until the arrival of Christianity in the 11th century. }} [[File: Taikomosios dailes muziejus, 2006-08-08.jpg | thumb | 300px | Museum of Applied Arts & Design ]] * {{see | name=Museum of Applied Arts & Design | alt=Taikomosios dailės ir dizaino muziejus | url=https://www.lndm.lt/en/tdm/ | email= | address=Arsenalo g 3a | lat=54.6881 | long=25.2923 | directions= | phone=+370 5 262 8080 | tollfree= | hours=Tu We & F 10:00-18:00, Th 10:00-20:00, Su 11:00-16:00 | price= | wikidata=Q12674518 | lastedit=2025-04-16 | content=This arsenal in the Lower Castle was built in the 15th century and stored heavy artillery. It's now part of the National Museum, displaying the country's pre-history and early history until the arrival of Christianity in the 11th century. }} * {{see | name=New Arsenal | alt= | url=https://lnm.lt/muziejai/naujasis-arsenalas/ | email= | address=Arsenalo 1 | lat=54.6872 | long=25.2892 | directions= | phone=+370 5 262 9426 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=Adult €5, child €2.50 | wikipedia=National Museum of Lithuania | wikidata=Q1790447 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=The New Arsenal was established in the 18th century and mostly served as a barracks. It's now part of the National Museum displaying Lithuania's history and cultural heritage. }} * {{see | name=Vilnius Cathedral | alt=Basilica of St Stanislaus and St Ladislaus of Vilnius | url=https://www.katedra.lt/ | email= | address=Cathedral Square | lat=54.6859 | long=25.2879 | directions= | phone=+370 526 11127 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 07:00-19:30 | price=Free | wikipedia=Vilnius Cathedral | wikidata=Q1281237 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=The first cathedral was built here in 1251, reverting to pagan worship in 1263. Fire destroyed a second in 1419, a third in 1530 and a fourth in 1610. Many parts of the fifth survive, notably the baroque chapel of St Casimir, but much was lost when the south tower collapsed in 1769 — did those pagans have a friend on high? What you see now is mostly the neo-classical structure completed in 1801. The crypt has a display of Vilnius through the ages, and you can also tour the catacombs and free-standing 57-m high belfry. Nearby in the square, a tile inscribed ''Stebuklas'' ("miracle") marks the end of the Vilnius-Tallinn human chain in the 1989 protest against the Soviet Union. }} [[File:St. John's, Vilnius University, Lithuania.jpg | thumb | 300px | St Johns in the university courtyard ]] * {{see | name=Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania | alt= | url=https://www.valdovurumai.lt/en/ | email=info@valdovurumai.lt | address=Cathedral Square | lat=54.6859 | long=25.2890 | directions= | phone=+370 5 262 0007 | tollfree= | hours=Tu–Sa 10:00–18:00, Su 10:00-16:00 | price=Adults €10.50, conc or child €5.25 | wikipedia=Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania | wikidata=Q1284847 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=This is a modern replica: the original was built in the 15th century, ruined in the 17th and demolished in 1801. A merchant's house was then built, which became part of the Arsenal. In the 1990s after independence the palace was rebuilt to the original plan, somehow without deciding what it would be used for, and to outcry as it blocked the vista from Cathedral Square. It's become part of the National Museum, with displays of palace history and reconstructions of the ceremonial halls. }} * {{see | name=Toy Museum | alt=Žaislų muziejus | url=http://zaislumuziejus.lt/en/ | email= | address=Šiltadaržio 2 | lat=54.6849 | long=25.2918 | directions=foot of castle lane | phone=+370 604 00449 | tollfree= | hours=Th F 14:00-18:00, Sa Su 11:00-16:00 | price=Adult €7, child €5 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Interactive museum of toys down the ages, chid-friendly of course. }} * {{see | name=Vilnius University | alt= | url=https://www.muziejus.vu.lt/en/ | email=mb@mb.vu.lt | address=Universiteto 5 | lat=54.6825 | long=25.2886 | directions= | phone=+370 5 268 7103 | tollfree= | hours=Museum M-Sa 09:00-15:00 | price=Adult €2, child or conc €1 | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=Vilnius University now has faculties across the city and beyond, but this is the baroque core of it, with the library, courtyards, observatory and Church of St Johns (plural: Šv Jono, the Baptist and the Evangelist). You can see the church, four courtyards and Franciszek Smuglewicz Hall free, and guided tours are available for groups of four or more by prior booking. The Adam Mickiewicz Museum displays the university's history. }} * {{see | name=House of the Signatories | url=https://lnm.lt/muziejai/signataru-namai/ | email= | address=Pilies 26 | lat=54.68233 | long=25.28929 | directions=east flank of University | phone=+370 5 231 4437 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 10:00-18:00, Sa Su 12:00-17:00 | price=Adult €4, child or conc €2 | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=Neo-renaissance mansion where Lithuania's Act of Independence was signed on 16 February 1918. It's now a branch of the National Museum depicting the story of Lithuania as a separate nation, in which independent spirit it makes few concessions to non-speakers of the language. }} * {{marker | name=Literatu gatve | type=see | lat=54.6822 | long=25.2903 }} ("Literature Street") at its junction with Rusų gatve has small artworks and dedications mounted on the walls, to those whose literature is linked to Lithuania (however obliquely, so a dedication to Wikivoyage is overdue). The street west is a ratty alley and east is nothing special. * {{see | name=Church Heritage Museum | alt= | url=https://bpmuziejus.lt/en/ | email= | address=Šv Mykolo 9 |lat=54.68283 | long=25.29225 | directions=east end of Literature St opposite St Anne's | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Displays religious art. }} * '''Pilies gatve''' is the attractive main thoroughfare leading south from Cathedral Square past the university, to become Didžioji continuing past Town Hall to the Gate of Dawn. Saint Parasceve is a shocking pink Orthodox church at the changeover point. Most buildings along here are worth admiring, though the concrete modern block opposite the church could do with a visit by the Teutonic Knights' wrecking crew. The [http://www.slapeliumuziejus.lt/ Šlapelių House Museum] has exhibitions and events. === Old Town south === [[File:Town Hall, Vilnius - 52576555494.jpg | thumb | 300px | Town Hall in mid-winter ]] : From Saint Parasceve past Town Hall square down to Gate of Dawn * {{see | name=National Museum of Art | alt= | url=https://www.lndm.lt/ | email= | address=Didžioji 4 | lat=54.6807 | long=25.2898 | directions= | phone=+370 5 262 8030 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 11:00-18:00, Su 12:00-17:00 | price=Adult €6, child or conc €3 | wikipedia=Lithuanian National Museum of Art | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=Huge display of art from the 14th to 20th century. }} * {{see | name=Museums Centre for Information, Digitisation and LIMIS | alt= | url=https://www.emuziejai.lt/en/ | email= | address=Bokšto g. 5 | lat=54.68068 | long=25.29019 | directions=next to the Museum of Art | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=About the digitisation and online curating of museum collections. So if you want to grasp the "principles of the use of ontologies" you've come to the right place, but if you seek physical exhibits you've not been listening. }} * {{see | name=Culinary Museum | alt= | url=https://culinarymuseumvilnius.lt/en/ | email= | address=Bokšto 9 | lat=54.67990 | long=25.29040| directions=just south of Museum of Art | phone=+370 5 219 4849 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 11:00-15:00 | price=Adult €4, child or conc €2 | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=This is about tableware rather than cuisine. }} * {{see | name=St Nicholas Church | alt=Šv. Nikolajaus Stebukladario palaikų Pernešimo cerkvė | url= | email= | address=Didžioji 12 | lat=54.67989 | long=25.28869 | directions=as the street widens into Town Hall square | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=A Russian Orthodox church. Not to be confused with the RC St Nicholas on Šv Mikalojaus. }} * {{see | name=Kazys Varnelis House-Museum | alt= | url=https://lnm.lt/muziejai/kazio-varnelio-namai-muziejus/ | email= | address=Didžioji 26 | lat=54.67835 | long=25.28778| directions=Town Hall square | phone=+370 5 279 1644 | tollfree= | hours=W-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=Adult €5, child or conc €2 | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=Varnelis (1917-2020) was an abstract artist who mostly lived in the USA, returning to Vilnius in 1998. His house is now part of National Museum, displaying his studio and works. }} [[File:Aušros Vartų 02(js) Vilnius.jpg | thumb | 300px | Chapel and icon over the Gate of Dawn ]] * {{see | name=Town Hall | alt=Vilniaus rotušė | url=https://www.vilniausrotuse.lt/en | email= | address=Didžioji 31 | lat=54.6783 | long=25.2870 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Town Hall, Vilnius | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=The present town hall is neoclassical, built 1799. It's used for civic events, and the simplest way to see inside is to attend a concert or similar, which may be free. The square is a venue for fairs, concerts, demos and so on. }} * {{see | name=Contemporary Art Centre | alt=Šiuolaikinio meno centras | url=http://www.cac.lt | email= | address=Vokieciu 2 | lat=54.67801 | long=25.28567 | directions=west side of Town Hall | phone=+370 5 212 1945 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Closed for rebuilding | price= | wikipedia=Contemporary Art Centre (Vilnius) | image=| wikidata=Q20504412 | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=This has a permanent display of Fluxus artwork plus other rotating exhibitions. }} * {{see | name=Vilnius Museum | alt= | url=https://vilniausmuziejus.lt/ | email= | address=Vokieciu 6 | lat=54.67843 | long=25.28490| directions=next to Contemporary Art Centre | phone=+370 5 212 1945 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-F 15:00-19:00, Sa Su 11:00-19:00 | price=Adult €5, child or conc €2.50 | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=Small independent museum of city history. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Illusions | alt= | url=https://vilnil.lt/ | email= | address=Vokieciu 8 |lat=54.67853 | long=25.28464 | directions=next to Vilnius Museum | phone=+370 5 672 25414 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-19:00, Su 10:00-18:00 | price=Adult €12, child or conc €9 | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=Ames Room, Pepper's Ghost, holograms, all the staples are here. Children will love it. }} * {{see | name=Church of St Casimir | alt= | url=https://sites.google.com/view/kazimieras | email= | address=Didžioji 34 | lat=54.67765 | long=25.28861| directions=east side of Town Hall | phone=+370 5 212 1715 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 11:00-19:00, Su 08:00-19:00 | price= | wikipedia= Church of St. Casimir, Vilnius | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=Baroque RC church completed in 1618. It's been held by various faiths (including a spell as Museum of Atheism) but was re-consecrated in 1991. It often hosts organ recitals. }} * {{see | name=Bastion of Vilnius Defensive Wall | alt= | url=https://lnm.lt/muziejai/vilniaus-gynybines-sienos-basteja/ | email= | address=Bokšto 20 | lat=54.6771 | long=25.2928 | directions= | phone= +370 5 261 2149 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-18:00 | price=Adult €6, child €3 | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=The city walls were built 1503-22 with nine gates (of which only Gate of Dawn survives) and this artillery position. It's now a museum of the city's military history. }} * {{see | name=Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit | alt= | url= | email= | address=Aušros Vartų 10 | lat=54.6756 | long=25.2908 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Re-built in 1753 in Baroque / Rococo. It's affiliated to the Monastery of the Holy Spirit and the Convent of Saint Mary Magdalen, with services in Russian. }} * {{see | name=St Nicholas Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Šv Mikalojaus 4 | lat=54.6782 | long=25.2829 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The Roman Catholic St Nick's, brick gothic, and the oldest church in Vilnius being documented in 1387. }} * {{see | name=Holy Trinity Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Aušros Vartų 11 | lat=54.67524 | long=25.28835| directions=opposite Holy Spirit | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Part of a Ukrainian Greek Catholic monastery, and mostly built in the early 17th century. }} * {{see | name=Church of St Theresa | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=54.6749 | long=25.2896| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Just north of the Gate of Dawn (indeed serving as the entrance to get up to the gate's Virgin Mary icon) is a Roman Catholic church popular with worshippers also outside mass, completed in 1650. }} * {{see | name=Gate of Dawn | alt=Aušros vartai | url= | email= | address= | lat=54.6742 | long=25.2896 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Chapel daily 07:00-19:00 | price= | wikidata=Q937212 | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=The last survivor of the walled city's nine gates, various called Medininkai Gate as the street led south to that village, Sharp Gate, and now Gate of Dawn. It's straddled by a chapel with a large icon of the Virgin Mary, painted in the 1620s, which has become a pilgrimage destination. Mass is held daily in Lithuanian and Polish. Enter the chapel via the Church of St Theresa, just follow the head-scarves. When the chapel windows are opened, you see the icon from the street below, and she can see you and your sins. The alley through the gate is pedestrianised and open 24 hours: south you emerge blinking into a modern world of traffic. }} === Užupis === [[File:Uzupis Constitution - panoramio.jpg | thumb | 300px | Užupis Constitution ]] : "Užupis" means beyond the river - it's in a loop of the small River Vilnia, which flows north to join the bigger Neris. It developed from the 16th century as a Jewish ghetto, most of whose inhabitants were murdered in the Holocaust. Post-war it was a squalid neighbourhood, then from independence it gentrified as property values climbed. In 1997 the residents declared it to be an independent republic, with its own president, anthem, flag, and constitution. They picked April Fool's Day to celebrate independence, and the first article of their constitution sets the tone: "Everyone has the right to live by the River Vilnia, and the River Vilnia has the right to flow by everyone." Its envoys, which have yet to be accredited by any other nation, include an "ambassador for whistling in the streets". : Kalnų Park stretches north to the River Neris, and northeast is the district of Antakalnis. Attractions there and further east are also described in this section. * {{see | name=St Anne's Church | alt=Šv Onos bažnyčia | url= | email= | address=Maironio 8 |lat=54.6831 | long=25.2933 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 11:00-18:00 | price= | wikipedia=Church of St. Anne, Vilnius | image=Vilnius.Sv.Onos baznycia.Saint Ann's church2.jpg | wikidata=Q937290 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Small flamboyant church in Gothic style, built by 1500 and little altered since. There is a legend that when Napoleon's campaigns brought him to Vilnius, he declared that he'd like to lift the church on his palm and carry it back to Paris. (Obviously untrue, since given the horrors of his retreat, he'd have been forced to eat it before he reached Warsaw.) St Anne's is not within Užupis but backs onto the river boundary by an entrance bridge. }} * {{see | name=Church of St Francis and St Bernard | alt= | url=https://www.bernardinuparapija.lt/ | email= | address= |lat=54.68299 | long=25.29386| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Also known as the Bernadine Church, it is next to St Anne's on the riverbank. It's a sturdy Gothic building from the 16th century, incorporated into the city walls, with loopholes toshoot at the Cossacks. }} * {{see | name=Cathedral of the Theotokos | alt=Dievo Motinos Ėmimo į Dangų katedra | url=http://www.soborvilnius.lt/ | email= | address=Maironio gatve 14 | lat=54.68108 | long=25.29236 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cathedral of the Theotokos, Vilnius | wikidata=Q1736161 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Like St Anne's, this stands by an entrance bridge to Užupis. It was first built in the 1340s by Grand Duke Algirdas before the country became Christian. It's been destroyed, rebuilt and changed use several times - in the 1820s it was the university anatomy department. The present building is from the 1860s in sort-of neoclassical meets the Byzantine style of Georgia. It's Eastern Orthodox (which calls the Virgin Mary ''Theotokos'', god-bearer) and so is the senior church for Russians and Belarusians in Vilnius. }} * {{see | name=Angel of Uzupis | alt= | url= | email= | address= |lat=54.6806 | long=25.2952 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=In the main square is a statue unveiled on 1 April 2002 of Gabriel blowing a trumpet. He's probably blowing a raspberry. }} * {{see | name=Tartle | alt= | url=https://www.tartle.lt/en/ | email= | address=Užupio 40 | lat=54.6817 | long=25.2994 | directions= | phone=+370 5 247 7724 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Gallery of modern art, visit only by pre-booked guided tour. }} * {{see | name=Bernadine Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address= |lat=54.680 | long=25.307 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Established in 1810 by the Bernardine monks of the Church of St Francis in Užupis. It became the main city cemetery, with some 14,000 burial plots, but fell into disrepair from 1945. It was restored from 2010. }} [[File:St. Peter and St. Paul's Church 2, Vilnius, Lithuania - Diliff.jpg | thumb | 300px | Interior of Saints Peter and Paul Church]] * {{see | name=Three Crosses Hill | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=54.6867 | long=25.2975 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=A monument to seven Franciscan friars supposedly beheaded here by pagans, while seven more were crucified then thrown in the river. The story is nonsense, but Lithuania was the last European country to convert to Christianity, and there was indeed conflict. King Mindaugas was baptised in 1250 but the country as whole didn't convert until 1485 when the Duchy united with Poland. Wooden crosses have been erected on the hill since the early 17th century. They needed periodic replacement, until the Tsarists stamped out the practice in 1869. Concrete crosses were built in 1916, got rid of by the Soviets in 1950, and re-built in 1989. }} * {{see | name=Old Jewish Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address= |lat=54.6881 | long=25.3076 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=In use from 1828 to the 1940s - though it was called "New Cemetery" as the first (north of River Neris) was established in the 15th century. The Soviets made sure to destroy both plus the synagogue, so what remains here is a memorial made of old tombstones. A new-new cemetery is now in the northwest district of Šeškinė. }} * {{see | name=Church of Saints Peter and Paul | alt= | url= | email= | address=Antakalnio 1 | lat=54.6943 | long=25.3062 | directions=trolleybus #2 or #20 from the bus & railway station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 07:00-18:30 | price= | wikipedia=Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, Vilnius | image=Lithuania Vilnius St.Peter+St.Paul church.jpg | wikidata=Q1283798 | lastedit=2023-02-09 | content=The first church from around 1500 was wooden and burned down, and its successor was wrecked in the 1650s in the war with Russia. The present building was commissioned by Michał Kazimierz Pac (1624-82), begun in 1668 but only completed in 1704 after his death. The exterior is fairly plain, but inside is baroque run riot. }} * {{see | name=Saulės Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=54.695 | long=25.312 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The 19th century graveyard 500 m east of St Peter & St Paul, tightly packed with the funerary art of the city's notables. It's atmospheric going on unkempt, and the two chapels are in a poor state. Its name means "sunny" but it was only called this from 1945, from the adjacent Saulės gatve. }} * {{see | name=Pushkin Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Subačiaus 124 | lat=54.6739 | long=25.3255 | directions=Bus 10 or 13 | phone=+370 5 260 0415 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-Su 10:00-18:30 | price=Adult €1.20, child €0.60 | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Alexander Pushkin (1799-1837) was often in exile around the edges of Russia: not here, but his son lived in this mansion. His works were translated into Lithuanian and much of the museum is about that literary task, but it has period decor. }} * {{see | name=Markučiai Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=54.6789 | long=25.3290 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=This green area stretches east of the Pushkin Museum, linking with others such as '''[https://www.pavilniai-verkiai.lt/en/ Pavilnys Regional Park]''' to form a greenbelt between the city and its industrial and commuter suburbs. The parks have bosky walks and are dotted with ancient burial tumuli. }} === Elsewhere === [[File:Jewish cemetery of Vilnius5.jpg | thumb | 300px | Memorial at the old Jewish Cemetery ]] : The city's walls were destroyed around 1800 and it expanded in all directions, absorbing or replacing the hamlets around. This section describes a roughly-clockwise arc from Gate of Dawn through west then north of Old Town. ====Naujamiestis==== The "new town", right west of the old town * {{see | name=Railway Museum | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Gelezinkeliu.muziejus/ | email= | address=Geležinkelio 16 | lat=54.6700 | long=25.2841 | directions=2nd floor of railway station | phone=+370 626 33345 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 09:00-18:00, Sa 10:00-18:00 | price=€6, card only | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Presents the history of railways in Lithuania from Prussian times until today. Railway equipment small enough to fit into a room, tickets, staff uniforms and the like are on display in addition to scale models, pictures and videos. Child-friendly. }} * {{see | name=Franciscan Monastery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Trakų 9 | lat=54.67917 | long=25.28079| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Founded in 1334 and it's their monks who are commemorated by the Three Crosses. It's in shabby condition, but you can access the church daily 07:00-22:30. }} * {{see | name=Church of Vytautas the Great | alt= | url= | email= | address=Trakų 9 | lat=54.67949 | long=25.28095 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=It's Roman Catholic, redbrick Gothic, dating to 1400 but 19th century in its present form. Also known as the Church of the Assumption. }} * {{see | name=Vilna Gaon Jewish State Museum | alt= | url=https://www.jmuseum.lt/en/ | email= | address=Naugarduka 10/2 | lat=54.6772 | long=25.2772 | directions= | phone=+370 5 231 2357 | tollfree= | hours=M 11:00-18:00, Tu-Th 10:00-18:00, F 10:00-16:00 | price= | wikipedia=Vilna Gaon Jewish State Museum | lastedit=2023-02-09 | content=Early modern Lithuania (like Poland, "White Russia" and Ukraine) had a large Jewish population, as Russia's Jews were encouraged (often violently) to live in the western "Pale of Settlement". Best known is the rabbinical scholar Elijah ben Solomon Zalman (1720-97), the "Vilna Gaon". The museum describes that community, its tribulations and eventual obliteration. }} * {{see | name=MO Museum | alt= | url=https://mo.lt/en/ | email= | address=Pylimo 17 | lat=54.6796 | long=25.2774 | directions= | phone=+370 609 83764 | tollfree= | hours=W-M 10:00-20:00 | price=Adult €11, conc or child €5.50 | lastedit=2023-02-09 | content=Museum with modern contemporary art and changing exhibitions. }} * {{see | name=Frank Zappa bust | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=54.6831 | long=25.2759 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Frank Zappa (1940-1993) is commemorated by a bust on Kalinausko gatve. He was never here, but local fans erected it in 1995, donating a replica to [[Baltimore]], Maryland, his childhood home. }} * {{see | name=Church of St Constantine and St Michael | alt= | url=https://kimp.lt/ | email= | address=Jono Basanavičiaus 27 | lat=54.6822 | long=25.2685 | directions= | phone=+370 650 64599 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 07:00-20:00 | price= | wikipedia=Church of St. Constantine and St. Michael | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=This orthodox church was built in 1913 to mark the 300th anniversary of the Romanov dynasty, much good it did them. It's a dinky onion-domed building. }} * {{see | name=Lithuanian Theatre, Music and Cinema Museum | alt= | url=https://ltmkm.lt/en/ | email= | address=Vilniaus 41 |lat=54.68130 | long=25.28097 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=It's open W-Sa 10:00-18:00, Su 10:00-16:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Has little for non-speakers of Lithuanian, though some exhibits transcend language. }} * {{see | name=Money Museum | alt= | url=https://www.pinigumuziejus.lt/ | email= | address=Totoriu 2 / 8 | lat=54.6866 | long=25.2826 | directions=within bank | phone=+370 5 659 22966 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Apr-Oct Tu–F 10:00–19:00, Sa 11:00-18:00, Nov-Mar Tu–F 9:00–18:00, Sa 10:00-17:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2023-02-09 | content=History of money, and collection of coins and bills from around the world. }} [[File:Commemoration of January 13 events in Vilnius 2010 (10).jpg | thumb | 300px | Remembering the Soviet brutality of 1991 ]] * {{see | name=Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights | alt= | url=http://genocid.lt/muziejus/ | email= | address=Aukų 2A | lat=54.6879 | long=25.2706 | directions= | phone=+370 5 249 8156 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-Sa 10:00-18:00, Su 10:00-17:00 | price=Adult €6, child or conc €3 | wikipedia=Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights | wikidata=Q323860 | lastedit=2023-02-09 | content=This is in the former KGB headquarters, where over 1000 were put to death. In spite of the plurals, it is specifically the Lithuanian experience under Soviet rule that is described; the experience under Nazism would reveal a very dark corner of national history. And until 2018, it was called the Museum of Genocide Victims, yet almost entirely omitted the genocide against what had been a large Jewish population. Just one small KGB interrogation cell in the basement describes this, as if 190,000 deaths were a dissident version of history to be beaten into confessing that it didn't exist, never happened. }} * {{see | name=Church of St Philip and St Jacob | alt=Šv Apaštalų Pilypo ir Jokūbo bažnyčia | url=https://www.dominikonai.lt/| email= | address=Vasario 16-osios 11 | lat=54.6907 | long=25.2721 | directions=north edge of Lukiškės Square | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2026142 | lastedit=2023-02-09 | content=Red and white Baroque church of the Dominican order, completed in 1722. It houses a large icon of the Virgin Mary "Hodegetria" - in iconography this means "shows the way" as she points to the infant as the salvation of mankind. <!-- wikipedia in 2022 changed Jacob to James, but he's definitely Jacob --> }} * {{see | name=Seimas Palace | alt= | url=https://www.lrs.lt/sip/portal.show?p_r=35408&p_k=2 | email= | address=Gedimino pr 53 | lat=54.6910 | long=25.2619 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3331436 | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=This complex houses the Lithuanian parliament. The first building, completed in 1980, was the seat of the Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic, and looks it. In 2007 the new Parliament Hall (or Building 2) was opened. Building 3 was added to house committees and technical services. Exhibitions in Building 2 are open to the public daily 08:00-17:00, and those in Building 1 on Fridays 11:00-15:00. You can also book a guided tour. }} * {{see | name=Vingis Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=54.683 | long=25.241| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Bounds city centre to the west, large and wooded so you could easily lose a small child. It's in a loop of River Neris ("vingis" means bend or curve) and together with other parks north and woodland downriver creates a greenbelt on this side. Enter from the east along Čiurlionio gatve, which spans the busy ring-road: there's a multinational military cemetery by the entrance. The palace has long been demolished - in 1812 it was where Tsar Alexander I learned of Napoleon's invasion, and scarpered with his entourage. The modern amphitheatre west stages rock concerts and other big events. }} * {{See|name=Church of St Catherine|alt=Šv. Kotrynos bažnyčia|address=Vilniaus g. 30|lat=54.681889|long=25.281064|lastedit=2025-01-17|content=Built in the 18th century in Baroque stlye and dedicated to Saint Catherine of Alexandria, as part of a Benedictine Nunnery. The church is known for its elegant façade, intricate stucco decorations, but many of its artworks were either lost in WW2 or moved to the Lithuanian National Museum of Art.|wikidata=Q1984956}} ====Right bank of Neris==== * {{see | name=Vilnius TV tower | alt=TV bokštas | url=http://tvbokstas.lt/en/ | email= | address=Sausio 13-osios 10 | lat=54.6871 | long=25.2147 | directions=bus to Laisvės prospekt | phone=+370 5 252 5333 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:00-21:00 | price=Adult €11 | wikipedia=Vilnius TV Tower | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=The 326.5 m high telecommunications tower was completed in 1980 and is visible from far and wide. You can ride the lift to the restaurant and observation deck. In 2022 / 23 construction work is under way but the place remains open. }} * {{see | name=Church of Our Lady of the Sign | alt=Ženklas iš dangaus cerkvė | url= | email= | address=Vytauto 21 | lat=54.6908 | long=25.2573 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Saily 09:00-16:30 | price= | wikipedia=Church of Our Lady of the Sign, Vilnius | wikidata=Q2089787 | lastedit=2023-02-09 | content=Built in Neo-Byzantine style in 1903, this is the Eastern Orthodox church you see when looking west along Gedimino prospekt. It was financed by fundraising around the Russian Empire. }} * {{see | name=New City Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=54.696 | long=25.280 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The modern business district, in Šnipiškės north of the river. Its 21st century glass and steel skyscrapers are visible from afar, including the 148 m Europa Tower. }} * {{see | name=Energy and Technology Museum | alt= | url=https://www.etm.lt/en/ | email= | address=Rinktinės 2 | lat=54.6900 | long=25.2879 | directions=Bus 33 or 89 | phone=+370 5 275 4312 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10.00-18.30 | price=Adult €7, child or conc €3.5 | wikipedia=Energy and Technology Museum | image=Technikosmuziejus.JPG | lastedit=2023-02-09 | content=This was the city's first power plant, opened in 1903. It exhibits electricity generation, industrial technologies, child-friendly interactions and transformation, the Tesla-inspired wizardry that enables long-distance transmission of electricity. They also have an Escape Room, €50 for 2-4 players. }} * {{see | name=Suderve Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=54.710 | long=25.232 | directions=in Šeškinė district 4 km north of city centre | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Most of it is Roman Catholic burials but the north end is Jewish, with re-interments from other destroyed cemeteries. These include the scholar Vilna Gaon. }} ==== South of the railway==== * {{see | name=Rasos Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=54.669 | long=25.303 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The main resting place of 20th century notables. It holds the heart of Józef Piłsudski (1867–1935), founder of independent Poland, with the rest of him in Wawel in [[Kraków]]. }} [[File:Open Air Museum of the Centre of Europe - panoramio (2).jpg | thumb | 300px | Museum of the Centre of Europe ]] * {{marker | name="Beresnäki" / Paliepiukai point | type=see | lat=54.6344 | long=25.4292 }}: only if you're passing, or hell-bent on taking the shortest possible route between [[Hammerfest]] and [[Odesa]]. In the 19th century [[Struve Geodetic Arc | Struve]] organised an extensive series of cartographic observations along a geodesic - a "Great Circle" arc - to measure the precise size and shape of the earth. The triangulation points weren't in a straight line, but roughly followed longitude 26°43′ East over 2820 km. Some 34 of the original 265 points are now a {{UNESCO}}. This one is a simple marker in a field, with a road nearby. ==== North of Vilnius ==== * {{see | name=Museum of the Centre of Europe | alt= | url=https://www.europosparkas.lt/ | email=hq@europosparkas.lt | address=Europas Parkas | lat=54.826 | long=25.3533 | directions= | phone=+370 5 237 7077 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-18:00 | price=Adult €12, student €11, child €8 | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Open-air sculpture park. It's within Europas Park, the rest of which is free and open to dusk. }} * {{marker | name=Verkiai | type=see | lat=54.782 | long=25.330 }} is a village 11 km north of Vilnius and now incorporated into the city: take bus #35 or #36. The extensive Regional Park stretches north along the riverbank. The imposing neoclassical palace was a bishop's residence and is now part of the university, no tours. Verkiai is best known for its Calvary, a reconstruction of the Way of the Cross in Jerusalem. This was established in the 1660s, demolished by the Soviets, and rebuilt in 2002. The Way comprises 22 chapels, 7 wooden and brick gates, and two baroque churches. It's supposed to be a faithful replica, though Jerusalem in 33 AD had few baroque buildings, and you'll struggle to see much resemblance between the bosky River Neris and the brook Kidron. == Do == [[File:Vilnius University 18.jpg | thumb | 300px | Extracurricular activities at the university]] * {{do | name=Lithuanian Opera and Ballet Theatre | alt= | url=https://www.opera.lt/ | email= | address=A. Vienuolio 1 | lat=54.6893 | long=25.2784 | directions= | phone=+370 5 262 0727 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Grand ornate opera house with three or four weekly performances. }} * {{do | name=Oskaras Koršunovas Theatre (OKT) | alt= | url=https://www.okt.lt/en/ | email= | address=Ašmenos 8 | lat=54.6779 | long=25.2839 | directions= | phone=+370 5 212 2099 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Avant garde theatre southwest edge of Old Town,. }} * {{do | name=Old Theatre of Vilnius | alt= | url=https://www.vsteatras.lt | email= | address=Jono Basanavičiaus 13 | lat=54.6808 | long=25.2734 | directions= | phone=+370 5 262 7133 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Creaky but atmospheric old theatre with performances mostly in Russian. }} * '''Football:''' {{marker | name=LFF Stadium | type=do | lat=54.6686 | long=25.2944 }} (capacity 5000) is 500 m east of the railway and bus stations, and hosts the men's national soccer team. It also hosts [https://fkzalgiris.lt/ FK Žalgiris], who play in A Lyga, the country's top tier; the playing season is March-Nov. "Žalgiris" means green field and commemorates the Battle of Grunwald in 1410, when Poland-Lithuania smashed the Teutonic Knights. Also playing here in A Lyga is [http://fkriteriai.lt/ FK Riteriai], who relocated from Trakai in 2019. The stadium is too small for European fixtures and is being rebuilt to hold 8000. * {{marker | name=[https://asgarena.lt/lt Avia Solutions Group Arena] | type=do | lat=54.7160 | long=25.2789 }} was Siemens Arena until rebranded in 2020. It's multi-purpose, and capacity varies with event. For basketball (capacity 10,000) it hosts [https://www.rytasvilnius.lt/ Rytas Vilnius], the country's leading team. Other regular events are ice hockey games and rock concerts. * {{do | name=Lindyhop Klubas | alt= | url=https://www.lindyhop.lt/ | email=info@lindyhop.lt | address=Geležinkelio 6 | lat=54.66997 | long=25.28311 | directions=by railway station | phone=+370 647 71111 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 18:00-21:00, Su 20:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=Lindy Hop is a US swing / jazz dance style that evolved from the 1930s and is now enjoying a revival, with clubs and lessons, retro gear optional. }} * '''Go Karts:''' {{marker | name=Kartlandas Elektrokart | type=do | lat=54.6652 | long=25.2744|url=https://elektrokart.lt/ }} is on Dariaus ir Girėno 500 m west of the railway station. It's a battery-powered kiddy affair. {{marker | name=Plytinės | type=do | lat=54.7255 | long=25.3499 |url=https://plytineskartodromas.lt/ }} is a full-scale outdoor track 5 km northeast of city centre. * '''Hot air balloons''' take to the sky above Vilnius and elsewhere in Lithuania. Operators include [https://oreiviai.lt/ Oreiviai] and [https://hotairballoon.lt/en/ Smile]. In 2023 you might pay €140 per person. == Learn == * {{listing | name=Vilnius University| alt= | url= https://www.vu.lt/en/| email= | address=Universiteto g. 3 | lat=54.68278 | long=25.28776 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Has faculties across the city and beyond - there's even one in Kaunas. It has some 3100 academic staff, 13,500 undergrads and 7000 postgrads. It hosts occasional summer schools and short courses suitable for visitors. }} * {{listing | name=Vilnius Academy of Arts | alt= | url=https://www.vda.lt/ | email= | address=Maironio 6 | lat=54.68376 | long=25.29425 | directions=by St Anne's Church | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Mykolas Romeris University | alt= | url=https://www.mruni.eu/ | email= | address=Ateities g. 20 | lat=54.7340 | long=25.2587 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=Formerly a free-standing law school, has its main campus on Ateities eight km north of city centre. It has 7500 students and 400 academic staff. }} * {{listing | name=ISM University of Management and Economics | alt= | url=https://www.ism.lt/ | email= | address=Gedimino pr. 7 | lat=54.68688 | long=25.28267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=A business school. }} * {{listing | name=Lingua Lituanica | alt= | url=https://www.lingualit.lt/ | email= | address=Gedimino pr 26 |lat=54.68760 | long=25.27575 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=A language school with small group classes and private sessions. }} == Buy == [[File:Inside Vilnius market hall.jpg | thumb | 300px | Halės turgus ]] * '''Money:''' ATMs are very common in Vilnius and most shops accept credit cards. * '''Amber''' was created some 50 million years ago when Baltic conifer forests were flooded, and the tree resin became fossilised into a hard semi-precious stone. Every souvenir shop sells it. * '''Supermarket''' chains are [https://www.maxima.lt/ Maxima]{{Dead link|date=December 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, [https://www.rimi.lt/ Rimi], [https://www.barbora.lt Barbora], [https://www.iki.lt/ Iki], [http://www.aibe.lt/ Aibė] and [https://www.norfa.lt/ Norfa]. * {{buy | name=Halės turgus | alt= | url=http://www.halesturgaviete.lt/en/ | email= | address= | lat=54.6734 | long=25.2864 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 07:00-18:00, Su 07:00-16:00 | price= | wikidata=Q11264737 | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content=The main market hall of Vilnius, built in 1906 and looking like a railway terminus. Inside, its east side has food stalls and a couple of eateries. Adjacent is the modern wing for clothing and household wares. }} * {{buy | name=Akropolis | url=https://akropolis.lt/ | email= | address=Ozo 25 | lat=54.7104 | long=25.2631 | directions=Šeškinė district | phone=+370 659 23632 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=Large mall with multiplex cinema and ice rink. }} * {{buy | name=Centro pasažas | alt= | url=https://www.centropasazas.lt/ | email= | address=Gedimino pr 16 | lat=54.68675 | long=25.28008 | directions=By Novotel Vilnius Centre on Kudirka sq. | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=Small mall west edge of Old Town. }} * {{buy | name=Europa | alt= | url=https://pceuropa.lt/ | email=info@pceuropa.lt | address=Konstitucijos pr 7A | lat=54.6963 | long=25.2768 | directions=Business district | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=Opened in 2004, when Lithuania joined EU. }} * {{buy | name=GO9 | alt= | url=https://www.go9.lt/ | email= | address=Gedimino 9 | lat=54.68707 | long=25.28158 | directions=opposite Novotel and Money Museum | phone=+370 655 92550 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-20:00, Su 11:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=Central mall with a large branch of H&M. }} * {{buy | name=Helios City | alt= | url= | email= | address=Savanorių pr 1 | lat=54.6793 | long=25.2579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=With a branch of Iki. }} * {{buy | name=Ozas | alt= | url=http://ozas.lt/en | email=info@ozas.lt | address=Ozo 18 | lat=54.7144 | long=25.2735 | directions=Šeškinė district by sports arena | phone=+370 640 15055 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=One of the biggest shopping malls in Vilnius, many stores and services plus Multikino cinema. }} * {{buy | name=Panorama | alt= | url=https://www.panorama.lt/ | email=info@panorama.lt | address=Saltoniškių 9 | lat=54.7 | long=25.2576 | directions=Saltoniškės district | phone=+370 686 39060 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=Multi-level centre west of business district. }} * {{buy | name=Outlet Park | alt= | url=https://outletpark.lt/ | email=info@parkasoutlet.lt | address=Verkiai 31 | lat=54.7146 | long=25.2978 | directions=Žirmūnai district | phone=+370 800 29292 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=Shopping mall for discount stores. }} * {{buy | name=CUP | alt= | url=https://cup.lt/lt | email= | address=Konstitucijos pr 16 | lat=54.6939 | long=25.2763 | directions=Business district | phone=+370 650 38853 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 08:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=Trading since 1974. }} * '''Gariunai''' is a huge market 5 km west of the city by the intersection of A1 and A19. It's open Tu-F 06:30-14:00, Sa Su 05:30-16:00. It scores high on quantity, sucks for quality, and traffic is a major problem: you could easily be queuing an hour to enter the site and an hour to exit. == Eat == [[File:Cepelinai and beer.jpg | thumb | 300px | Cepelinai are stuffed potato dumplings ]] === Budget === * '''Chain coffee shops''' include [https://caffeine.lt/ Caffeine], [http://www.ajsokoladas.lt AJ Šokoladas] and [http://www.svieziakava.lt/ Šviežia Kava]. You're seldom far from one. * '''[https://www.hesburger.lt/ Hesburger]''' is a Finnish burger chain with a dozen outlets around the city. The closest to Old Town is at Vokiečių 12 near the Museum of Illusions, open Su-Th 10:00-22:00, F Sa 10:00-04:00. * '''Chain pizza:''' Čili Pica have half a dozen outlets, most central is Didžioji 5 at Town Hall square. You'll find better Italian elsewhere. * '''[https://jammi.lt/ Jammi]''' is a kebab chain with a dozen outlets, the most central is at Tauro 3 near Mykolaičio-Putino Museum. * {{eat | name=Kiras | url=https://kiras.lt/en/ | email=labas@kiras.lt | address=Totorių 7 | lat=54.6853 | long=25.2821 | directions= | phone=+370 673 22563 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-21:00, Sa Su 11:00-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2024-08-04 | content=Café in 1970s style, with happy memories of Soviet days: "chaika" a tea-house is a pun on "cheka" the secret police. They have another café at Pylimo 21b. }} * '''[http://vegafe.eu/ Vegafè]{{Dead link|date=December 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''' have two vegan cafes, at Totorių 3 by Chaika, and Augustijonų 2-3 near Old Town square, both open daily. * {{eat | name=Vyno rūselis | alt= | url= | email= | address=Labdarių 2 | lat=54.6850 | long=25.2803 | directions= | phone=+370 604 94536 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 10:00-17:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Trad from-home Lithuanian lunches. }} * {{eat | name=Pilies kepyklėlė | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Pilies-kepykl%C4%97l%C4%97/100063645530206/ | email=pilieskepyklele@gmail.com | address=Pilies St 19 | lat=54.68295 | long=25.28910| directions= | phone=+370 673 18248 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 09:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Café-bakery in the university building near Saints John. }} * {{eat | name=Kamikadzė Japonų virtuvė | alt= | url=https://kamikadze7.com/ | email= | address=Klaipėdos 1 | lat=54.6818 | long=25.2783 | directions= | phone=+370 675 56242 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Japanese restaurant with the usual offerings. }} * {{eat | name=Plus Plus Plus Gastrobaras | alt= | url=https://www.plusplusplus.lt/ | email= | address=Vilniaus 39 | lat=54.68243 | long=25.27970| directions=opposite St Catherine's Church | phone=+370 645 17764 | tollfree= | hours=Su-W 17:00-00:00, Th 17:00-02:00, F 17:00-04:00, Sa 16:00-04:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=This is the most central of a fast-food chain. }} * {{eat | name=Dėvėti | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/barasdeveti/menu/ | email= | address=Sodų 3 | lat=54.6739 | long=25.2844 | directions= | phone=+370 607 75964 | tollfree= | hours=Su-W 16:00-00:00, Th-Sa 16:00-01:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=Calls itself a gastropub, more like a bar with pizza and pita bread sandwiches. }} * {{eat | name=RadhaRane | url=http://radharane.lt/vilnius/ | email= | address=Gedimino pr 32 | lat=54.6879 | long=25.2742 | directions= | phone=+370 614 23332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 11:00-20:00, Su 12:00-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=Vegetarian Indian restaurant with a good menu choice. }} * {{eat | name=Wok to Walk | alt= | url=https://www.woktowalk.com/lt/ | email= | address=Vilniaus 19 | lat=54.68606 | long=25.27935 | directions=by Da Antonio, near Novotel | phone=+370 655 91919 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11:00-22:00, F Sa 12:00-15:00, Su 12:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=This is the main outlet of an Asian cuisine franchise. }} * {{eat | name=Fėjų kepyklėlė | alt=Little Bakery Of The Fairies | url=http://www.fejukepyklele.lt/ | email=info@fejukepyklele.lt | address=Basanavičius 37 | lat=54.6815 | long=25.2655 | directions=corner with Švitrigaila | phone=+370 685 25157 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 07:30-19:00, F 07:30-18:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Bakery-cafe with pastries, snacks, pizza and ice cream. It's infested with Lithuanian fairies, which you'll either adore or upchuck over. }} * {{eat | name=Buga Sotu | url=https://kavinebuga.lt/ | email=valeika@pinsita.eu | address=Asanavičiūtė 17 |lat=54.6895 | long=25.2114 | directions=by TV tower | phone=+370 5 240 2400 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 08:00-23:00, F 08:00-01:00, Sa 09:00-01:00, Su 12:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Trad food: chicken, dumplings, kibinai, pizzas and carp. Live music on Friday and sometimes on Saturday. You'd most likely eat here if you visited the TV Tower and baulked at their restaurant prices. }} === Mid-range === [[File:Church of St. Philip and St. Jacob, Vilnius June 19 2022.jpg | thumb | 300px | Church of St Philip and St Jacob ]] * {{eat | name=Amatininkų užeiga | alt= | url=https://www.amatininkai.lt/ | email= | address=Didžioji 19/2 | lat=54.67923 | long=25.28710 | directions=Town Hall square | phone=+370 687 22366 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:00–03:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content=Lithuanian and international food. }} * {{eat | name=Cozy | alt= | url=https://www.cozy.lt/ | email= | address=Dominikonų 10 | lat=54.6813 | long=25.2851 | directions= | phone=+370 5 261 1137 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10:00-01:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Well-named place, with laid-back restaurant upstairs, DJ-bar downstairs, serves hearty modern food with a few vegetarian options. }} * {{eat | name=Mint Vinetu | alt= | url=https://www.mintvinetu.com/en | email= | address=Šv Ignoto 16/10 | lat=54.68141 | long=25.28495 | directions=behind Cozy | phone=+370 618 20347 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 12:00-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Independent bookstore and coffee shop. }} * {{eat | name=Fortas | alt= | url=http://www.fortas.eu/en/ | email= | address=Algirdo 17 | lat=54.6786 | long=25.2704 | directions= | phone=+370 65 201138 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 09:00-23:00, Sa Su 11:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=This is the original of what has become a chain. They do pub-style food with theme days on different nations' cuisines. Other outlets are at Vilniaus 18 in Old Town and Konstitucijos pr 7A north of the river. }} * {{eat | name=Mano Guru | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/salotubaras | email= | address=Vilniaus 22 | lat=54.68472 | long=25.27963 | directions=next to Vanille Lounge | phone=+370 5 212 0126 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 10:00-19:00, Sa 10:00-21:00, Su 10:00-17:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Mostly vegetarian food, and no alcohol. All the staff are former drug misusers. }} * {{eat | name=Vapiano | alt= | url=https://vapiano.lt/ | email=vilnius1@vapiano.lt | address=Ozo 18 | lat=54.7142 | long=25.2727 | directions=within Ozas Shopping Center | phone=+370 691 01917 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 11:00-22:00, F Sa 11:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=Italian style, fast casual restaurant (part of the German global chain). Tasty salads, à la carte pastas and pizzas are made in front of the guest. }} * '''[https://etnodvaras.lt/en/ Etno Dvaras]''' are a chain serving trad food such as ''cepelinai'' and potato pancakes. The two most central are at Aušros Vartų 2 (Gate of Dawn) and Pilies 16 by the university. Rustic interiors, slightly touristy but a good introduction to the local cuisine, and both open from 11:00 to 22:00 or later. * {{eat | name=Medininkai | alt= | url=https://medininkairestaurant.lt/ | email= | address=Aušros Vartų 8 | lat=54.67574 | long=25.28908 | directions=by Church of Holy Spirit | phone=+370 643 00999 | tollfree= | hours=Su-W 11:00-22:00, Th-Sa 11:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Lithuanian food near Gate of Dawn, it got good reviews to 2022 but now feels tourist-trappy. }} * {{eat | name=Sakwa | url=https://www.sakwa.lt/ | email=uzsakymai@sakwa.lt | address=M. K. Paco St 1/2, Antakalnis | lat=54.69299 | long=25.30540 | directions=in front of St Peter and St Paul's Church | phone=+370 5 215 4562 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 10:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Café in a two-storey building, retro-styled like a suburban house. Lithuanian, Polish and European cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Fabai | url=http://barasfabai.lt/ | email=info@barasfabai.lt | address=Ateities 21A | lat=54.7344 | long=25.2544 | directions= | phone=+370 5 273 6464 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 11:00-23:00, F 11:00-00:00, Sa 12:00-00:00, Su 12:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Vilnius doesn't have much by way of Caucasus cuisine, so it may be worth the trip out to this bar grill - and you'll have to queue at peak times. It's styled like a country tavern, with grillroom, ballroom, bar, and two billiard halls. }} * {{eat | name=Belmontas Cafe | url=https://www.belmontas.lt/ | email= | address=Belmonto 17 | lat=54.6846 | long=25.3575 | directions=5 km east of town in Pavilniai Regional Park | phone=+370 686 14656 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Summer | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content=Folk-themed outdoor restaurant by a 19th century mill and waterfall. }} === Splurge === * {{eat | name=Balzac | alt= | url=http://www.balzac.lt/ | email= | address=Saviciaus 7 | lat=54.67920 | long=25.28904 | directions=50 m west of Jimmy Jumps | phone=+370 614 89223 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 12:00-23:00, F Sa 12:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content=Traditional French cuisine, well prepared, great atmosphere. }} * {{eat | name=Bistro 18 | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/bistro18/ | email= | address=Stiklių 18 | lat=54.68085 | long=25.28529 | directions=50 m north of Stikliai Hotel | phone=+370 677 72091 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11:30-21:00, F 11:30-22:00, Sa 13:00-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Small restaurant and wine bar with good selection of European cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Čagino | alt= | url=http://www.cagin.lt | email= | address=Basanavičiaus 11 | lat=54.6804 | long=25.2748 | directions= | phone=+370 5 261 5555 | tollfree= | hours=Tu W 11:30-22:00, Th-Sa 12:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content=Named for the architect Nikolai Chagin (1823-1909) who designed several churches in Vilnius and led a revival of the Byzantine style. It's Russian food and their occasional gimmick is dinner in the dark, check ahead for these dates. }} * {{eat | name=Da Antonio | alt= | url=http://www.antonio.lt/ | email= | address=Vilniaus 23 | lat=54.6856 | long=25.2793 | directions= | phone=+370 5 262 0109 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 12:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Excellent upscale Italian food. }} * {{eat | name=La Provence | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RestaurantLaProvenceOfficial | email=zemaiciusmukle@takas.lt | address=Vokiečių 22 | lat=54.6795 | long=25.2832 | directions= | phone=+370 686 04708 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 15:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content=Grand French dining in a classic interior. }} * {{eat | name=Lokys | alt= | url=https://www.lokys.lt/ | email=info@lokys.lt | address=Stiklių 8 | lat=54.6799 | long=25.2864 | directions= | phone=+370 5 262 9046 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 12:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Specializes in Lithuanian traditional cuisine and game. }} * {{eat | name=Markus ir Ko | alt= | url=https://www.markusirko.lt/ | email=markusirko@takas.lt | address=Antokolskio 11 | lat=54.67999 | long=25.28591 | directions=round corner from Lokys | phone=+370 5 262 3185 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 12:00-23:00, Su 12:00-22:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Steakhouse with music. }} * {{eat | name=Vanille Lounge | alt= | url=https://vanillelounge.lt/ | email=info@vanillelounge.lt | address=Vilniaus 29 | lat=54.6846 | long=25.2793 | directions= | phone=+370 602 22454 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Tu 16:00-23:00, W Th 16:00-00:00, F Sa 16:00-02:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Upmarket seasonal European fare. }} == Drink == [[File:Svyturys Extra cans.jpg | thumb | 300px | Švyturyus Ekstra in cans]] * '''Beer:''' the most popular local brand is ''Švyturys'', meaning lighthouse; "Ekstra" is their lager. Other major brands include Kalnapilis, Tauras and Utenos. * '''Vodka''' in Lithuanian is ''degtinė''. Popular brands include ''Auksinė'' and ''Gera''. The town distillery doesn't offer tours. * '''Liqueurs''' include ''Midus'' (honey) and ''Trejos Devynerios'' (Three Nines, written as 999). * {{drink | name=Alaus Namai | alt= | url=https://alausnamai.lt/ | email= | address=Goštauto 8 | lat=54.6937 | long=25.2688 | directions= | phone=+370 5 260 9637 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 12:00-23:00, F 12:00-00:00, Su 15:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content=Big saloon offering beer from less-known Lithuanian brands. }} * {{drink | name=Artistai | alt= | url=http://artistai.lt/ | email=info@artistai.lt | address=Šv Kazimiero 3 | lat=54.67702 | long=25.28893 | directions=behind Imperial Hotel | phone=+370 5 212 1268 | tollfree= | hours=M 11:00-00:00, Tu W 11:00-01:00, Th F 11:00-16:00, Sa 12:00-17:00, Su 12:00-00:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=The large courtyard is a great place to relax and watch the sunset. Friendly service, live music. }} * {{drink | name=Šnekutis | alt= | url=http://jususnekutis.lt/lt/jus-sveikina-snekutis/ | email= | address=Šv Mikalojaus 15 | lat=54.67790 | long=25.28254 | directions=behind Museum of Illusions | phone=+370 656 99459 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content=Long-table like a beer hall, with trad beer and food. }} * {{drink | name=BIX | url=http://www.bix.lt/ | email= | address=Etmonų 6 | lat=54.6766 | long=25.2869 | directions= | phone=+370 5 212 1269 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Tu 11:30-23:00, W Th 11:30-02:00, F Sa 11:30-04:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content=Bar founded by BIX rock band. Live rock / metal bands on Friday nights, karaoke on Thursdays, and rock music any time on the dance floor. Surprisingly good food. }} * {{drink | name=Soho Club | alt= | url=https://www.sohoclub.lt/ | email= | address=Švitrigailos 7 | lat=54.6788 | long=25.2667 | directions= | phone=+370 699 39567 | tollfree= | hours=F, Sa 22:00-07:00 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-12 | content=LGBT club, gets very crowded. }} == Sleep == [[Image:Vilnius01.jpg | thumb | 300px | Town Hall square ]] === Budget === ==== Hostels ==== * {{sleep | name=Filaretai Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.filaretaihostel.lt/ | email=info@filaretaihostel.lt | address=Filaretų 17, Užupis | lat=54.6843 | long=25.3059 | directions=Bus 34 to Filaretai | phone=+370 686 555 89 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm €33 ppn | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Chilled out place in "Republic of Užupis". Self-service kitchen, washing machine, WiFi sitting-room with free computers and TV. }} * {{sleep | name=Jimmy Jumps House | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/jimmyjumps.house | email=jimmyjumpshouse@gmail.com | address=Savičiaus 12 | lat=54.6794 | long=25.2898 | directions= | phone=+370 5 231 3847 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm beds from ~€18, privates from ~€40 | lastedit=2025-01-04 | content=Friendly, well-run hostel with 4, 6 and 8-bedded dorms, as well as "twin rooms" with single bunk beds for two people. }} * {{sleep | name=Pogo Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.pogo.lt/ | email=hostel@pogo.lt | address=B. Radvilaitė 3 | lat=54.6847 | long=25.291 | directions=by cathedral | phone=+370 684 67060 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm €20 ppn | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Good value hostel in a great location, helpful staff. Four dorms of 6 beds and two private rooms. }} ==== Hotels ==== * {{sleep | name=City Hotel Algirdas | alt= | url=http://www.cityhotels.lt/algirdas/ | email=algirdas@cityhotels.lt | address=Algirdo 24 | lat=54.6764 | long=25.2717 | directions= | phone=+370 5 232 6650 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €50 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Simple Scandinavian style hotel in the centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Domus Maria | alt= | url=https://domusmaria.com/ | email=info@domusmaria.com | address=Aušros vartų 12 | lat=54.6748 | long=25.2903 | directions= | phone=+370 5 264 4880 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €60 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Secluded 48-room hotel within a former Carmelite convent, you sleep in the nuns' cells. }} * {{sleep | name=Ibis Vilnius Centre | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/A1J1/index.en.shtml | email= | address=Rinktinės 18 | lat=54.6941 | long=25.2881 | directions= | phone=+370 5 265 8100 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €60 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Standard boxy Ibis 500 m north of Cathedral Square, clean and good value. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/gb/en/vilnius/vnosy/hoteldetail | email= | address=Šeimyniškių 1 | lat=54.6943 | long=25.2825 | directions= | phone=+370 5 210 3000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) €60 | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Clean modern chain hotel in Business District. }} === Mid-range === * {{sleep | name=Congress | alt= | url=https://www.congress.lt/ | email= | address=Vilniaus 2 | lat=54.6906 | long=25.2803 | directions= | phone=+370 5 269 1919 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €90 | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Older hotel by riverside, friendly and comfy, some street noise. }} * {{sleep | name=Courtyard by Marriott | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/vnocy-courtyard-vilnius-city-center/overview/ | email= | address=Rinktinės 3 | lat=54.69265 | long=25.28943 | directions=50 m south of Ibis | phone=+370 5 207 0707 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2023-02-08 | content=Reliable mid-price chain hotel. 12-room hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Vilnius City Hotel | alt=formerly Europolis | url=https://www.vilniuscityhotel.com/ | email= | address=Švitrigailos 11D | lat=54.6753 | long=25.2679 | directions= | phone=+370 689 87777 | tollfree= | fax=+370 5 2150410 | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €50 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Simple 26-room hotel with free parking, some fittings in need of repair. }} * {{sleep | name=Ratonda Centrum Hotels | alt= | url=https://ratonda.centrumhotels.com/ | email=ratonda@centrumhotels.com | address=Gedimino pr 52/1 | lat=54.6894 | long=25.2655 | directions= | phone=+370 5 212 0670 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) €65 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=43-room hotel with sauna, fitness centre and meeting rooms, close to parliament. }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Garden Inn | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/vnogigi-hilton-garden-inn-vilnius-city-centre/ | email= | address=Gedimino pr 44 | lat=54.68861 | long=25.26708 | directions=east side of Ratondo Centrum | phone=+370 5 229 9400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €110 | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Modern glassy place, clean and comfy. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.co.uk/hotels/best-western-vilnius-91401 | email= | address=Konstitucijos pr 14 | lat=54.69438 | long=25.27811 | directions=east side of Radisson Blu Lietuva | phone=+370 5 273 9595 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €85 | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Great value mid-price hotel near Parliament. }} === Splurge === [[File:Kempinski Vilnius by Augustas Didzgalvis.jpg | thumb | 300px | Grand Hotel Kempinski ]] * {{sleep | name=Grand Hotel Kempinski | alt= | url=https://www.kempinski.com/en/grand-hotel-kempinski | email= | address=Universiteto 14 | lat=54.6848 | long=25.2856 | directions=opposite cathedral | phone=+370 5 220 1100 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €210 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Now you've arrived. Stylish, mostly modern interior with 96 rooms, spa, restaurant and conference facilities. }} * {{sleep | name=Mabre Residence Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.mabre.lt/ | email=mabre@mabre.lt | address=Maironio 13 | lat=54.6815 | long=25.2920 | directions= | phone=+370 655 02845 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=This 40-room hotel is in a neoclassical Orthodox Monastery, dating back 500 years but rebuilt in 1995. High walls give it an exclusive feel. Sauna, fitness center, and pool. Some guests found rooms poky and mediocre quality. }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel Vilnius Centre | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/5209/index.en.shtml | email=H5209@accor.com | address=Gedimino pr 16 | lat=54.6869 | long=25.2799 | directions= | phone=+370 5 266 6200 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Modern 159-room hotel, clean and spacious, close to Opera House and Cathedral square. }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Blu Royal Astorija Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-collection-vilnius-astorija | email=sales.vilnius@radissonblu.com | address=Didzioji 35/2 | lat=54.6775 | long=25.2872 | directions=opposite town square | phone=+370 5 212 0110 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) €180 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Splendid place in the heart of old town, US President George W Bush and Britain's Prince Charles (now king) have enjoyed the great service offered here. }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva | alt=formerly Reval Hotel Lietuva | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-vilnius-lietuva | email=info.lietuva.vilnius@radissonblu.com | address=Konstitucijos pr 20 | lat=54.6952 | long=25.2749 | directions= | phone=+ 370 5 272 6272 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) €100 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=High-rise by the river with 291 rooms and conference facilities, great reviews. The even-numbered rooms have views over old town, also from the top-floor Skybar. }} * {{sleep | name=Narutis Hotel | alt= | url=https://narutis.com/ | email= | address=Pilies 24 | lat=54.68242 | long=25.28941 | directions=by House of Signatories | phone=+370 614 43849 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €140 | lastedit=2023-02-10 | content=Stylish upmarket place by the university. The restaurant gets good reviews. }} * {{sleep | name=Imperial Hotel | alt=formerly Ramada | url=https://www.imperialvilnius.lt/ | email= | address=Subačiaus 2 | lat=54.6767 | long=25.2887 | directions= | phone=+370 5 255 3355 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=This has left the Ramada chain and gone upmarket. Good scores for comfort and dining. }} * {{sleep | name=Stikliai Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.stikliai.com/ | email= | address=Gaono 7 | lat=54.6805 | long=25.2861 | directions= | phone=+370 5 264 9595 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2023-02-09 | content="Stikliai" means glasses and it's in an old glassworks, charmingly converted, and now part of Relais & Chateaux group. }} * {{sleep | name=Neringa Hotel | alt= | url=https://neringavilnius.com/ | email=book@neringahotels.com | address=Gedimino pr 23 | lat=54.6879 | long=25.276 | directions= | phone=+370 5 268 1910 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €110 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Slick 60-room hotel with sauna, fitness centre, wi-fi, pool, bar. Some street noise. }} * {{sleep | name=Shakespeare Hotel | alt=Šekspyras viesbutis | url=http://www.shakespeare.lt/ | email=info@shakespeare.lt | address=Bernardinu 8/8 | lat=54.6836 | long=25.2918 | directions= | phone=+370 5 266 5885 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €165 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Charming 31-room English country-style hotel. Rooms are named after famous writers - he's called Šekspyras in Lithuanian. }} * {{sleep | name=Park Inn by Radisson Vilnius Airport Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/park-inn-vilnius-airport-business-center | email=info.vilnius@parkinn.com | address=Oreiviu 32 | lat=54.6469 | long=25.277 | directions=500 m north of airport | phone=+370 5 240 0055 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double (room only) €80 | lastedit=2023-02-07 | content=Modern place with 120 rooms, Italian restaurant and fitness centre. It's just ten minutes walk to the airport terminal. }} == Connect == [[File:Kalvarijos 4.jpg | thumb | 300px | Station on Verkiai Calvary ]] As of Aug 2023, Vilnius and its approach highways have 4G from Bite, and 5G from Tele2 and Telia. Wi-fi is widely available in public places in the city. == Stay safe == If you are a person of colour, you may get weird looks or otherwise be looked down upon from the locals. ===Emergency numbers=== * {{listing | name=Police |alt=Emergency only | phone=112 | content=If you are unsure which emergency number to call, 112 is the central for all such rescue services and will put you in contact with the correct department. }} * {{listing | name=Police |alt=Emergency only | phone=03 | content=Phone number analogous to 112. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Fire | alt=Emergency only | phone=01 }} * {{listing | name=''Emergency'' Medical Services | alt=Ambulance | phone=03 }} ===Crime=== Vilnius is a relatively '''safe''' city, but use common precautions like safeguarding valuables and not flashing them in the public. It is advised to not stay in the central parts of the city, as well as the railway and bus station areas at night, as crime is more likely to occur around these areas. == Cope == === Medical === Always check with your accommodation: they'll know which pharmacies are open late, and which number to call for medical care. This is likely to be the Centro Poliklinika (+370 5 244 2244 / 265 8564), which is open 24/7. === Embassies === For a full list see [https://www.embassypages.com/lithuania Embassy Pages]. * {{flag|China}} {{listing | name=China | alt= Office of the Chargé d'Affaires | url=http://lt.china-office.gov.cn/eng/ | email=chinaemb_lt@mfa.gov.cn | address=Algirdo G-36 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+370 5 216 2861 | tollfree= | fax= +370 5 216 2682 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-03 | content= }} * {{flag|Finland}} {{listing | name=Finland | url=http://www.finland.lt| email=sanomat.vil@formin.fi | address=K. Kalinausko 24, 2nd floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+370 5 266 8010 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content= }} * {{flag|Georgia}} {{listing | name=Georgia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Algirdo 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+370 5 273 6959 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content= }} * {{flag|Germany}} {{listing | name=Germany | alt= | url=https://wilna.diplo.de/ | email=info@wilna.diplo.de | address=Z. Sierakausko 24 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+370 5 210 6400 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content= }} * {{flag|Greece}} {{listing | name=Greece | alt= | url=https://www.mfa.gr/missionsabroad/en/lithuania.html | email=gremb.vil@mfa.gr | address=Rudninku 2 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+370 5 261 0526 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content= }} * {{flag|Japan}} {{listing | name=Japan | url=https://www.lt.emb-japan.go.jp/ | email= | address=M. K. Ciurlionio 82 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+370 5 231 0462 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content= }} * {{flag|Romania}} {{listing | name=Romania | alt= | url=https://vilnius.mae.ro/ | email=vilnius@mae.ro | address=Gaono 6 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+370 5 231 0557 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content=Also acts as the Romanian embassy for Latvia. }} * {{flag|Spain}} {{listing | name=Spain | url=https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/vilnius/es/Paginas/index.aspx | email= | address=Gedimino 35 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+370 5 231 3961 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 09:30-15:30 | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content= }} * {{flag|United Kingdom}} {{listing | name=United Kingdom | url=https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-vilnius | email= | address=Antakalnio 2 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+370 5 246 2900 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content= }} * {{flag|United States}} {{listing | name=United States | url=https://lt.usembassy.gov/ | email=WebEmailVilnius@state.gov | address=Akmenų 6 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+370 5 266 5500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-02-11 | content= }} == Go next == : Transport routes radiate from Vilnius. Within an hour's travel: * [[Trakai]] 30 km west has two castles amid scenic lakes. * Purnuškės 25 km north is one of the claimants to be the geographical centre of Europe. * [[Kernavė]] 35 km northwest was medieval capital of Lithuania, and is a {{UNESCO}} for its ancient mounds. * [[Kaunas]] 100 km west is the second largest city, and mostly modern but with a small Old Town. {{geo|54.6833|25.2833}} {{guidecity}} {{IsPartOf|Dzūkija}} ij62ydudwbvkx2q1rsw5tai5sxlx5x3 0 38378 5091126 5066245 2025-07-11T01:27:26Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091126 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Disney Springs banner.jpg|pgname=Disney Springs|star=yes}} ''This article is about the Disney Springs complex at Walt Disney World. For the Downtown Disney district at Disneyland, see [[Disneyland#Downtown Disney]].'' {{destarnomination}} [[Image:Downtown Disney - Characters in Flight panorama - retouched.jpg|thumb|350px|The "Characters In Flight" balloon rises {{ft|400}} over Disney Springs West Side. Empress Lily is near the center. Planet Hollywood is on the far left, and DisneyQuest (blue) and Cirque du Soleil (white) dominate the right side of the image.]] At '''[https://www.disneysprings.com/ Disney Springs]''' (formerly '''Downtown Disney'''), you can design your own T-shirt or marvel at the biggest Disney store in the world; enjoy the fine cuisine of the world's top chefs{{index|Wolfgang Puck}} or eat among the dinosaurs; see a new hit movie as you dine at your seat or take a ride in a classic "Amphicar"; and in general just get away from the Disney parks for a while. An outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex in the southeast corner of [[Walt Disney World]], Disney Springs has been re-imagined and expanded to four districtsː '''Marketplace''', '''The Landing''', '''Town Center''', and '''West Side'''. Although it's geared primarily to adults looking for something to do away from the parks, kids will find several things to occupy their attention as well. Nearby is the most popular water park in the country, '''Disney's Typhoon Lagoon'''{{index|Disney's Typhoon Lagoon}}{{index|Typhoon Lagoon}}, and several resort hotels and golf courses. ==Understand== Visitors to Disney Springs will find that it has a split personality. During the day, it's a shopping district like no other on Disney property, with everything from mega-stores to smaller specialty boutiques. This is the place to go if you're on day six of your vacation and still haven't figured out what souvenirs you want, or if you decide you just need some good old-fashioned retail therapy. Most of the large stores are in the Disney Springs Marketplace area, with the specialty shops concentrated in the Disney Springs West Side. At night, though, the lights come on and the place really gets hopping, with live music, stage shows, and sophisticated restaurant and lounges opening their doors to a primarily adult clientele. If you get tired of the relentlessly artificial environments of the theme parks, you can drop by Disney Springs at night for fun of an entirely different sort. The strongest concentration of activity at night is on the West Side, but The Landing gets its share as well thanks to its upscale restaurants and lounges. Disney Springs also serves as a major transportation hub (especially late at night when the parks are closed), as it's the most reliable way to transfer buses in order to travel between two resorts via Disney transportation. ===History=== In 1975, just a few years after Walt Disney World opened, Disney created a small shopping district far to the southeast of the [[Walt Disney World/Magic Kingdom|Magic Kingdom]], which was at the time the only developed area of the property. As the '''Walt Disney World Village'''{{index|Walt Disney World Village}}, and later the '''Disney Village Marketplace'''{{index|Disney Village Marketplace}}, it remained a remote and rarely visited destination for many years. The only real attraction aside from shopping was the '''Empress Lilly''' (Paddlefish in 2017), a non-functional replica paddlewheel boat named after Walt's widow that featured three separate dining rooms. {{infobox|Merriweather Pleasure's island|The back story of Pleasure Island{{index|Pleasure Island}} held that the area was built around the turn of the 20th century by adventuring businessman '''Merriweather Pleasure'''. A severe storm destroyed Pleasure's business interests, however, and he disappeared, leaving behind only giant warehouses. In the late 1980s, entrepreneurs "rediscovered" the warehouses and converted them into the clubs of Pleasure Island. The very popular '''Adventurers Club''', uniquely, was set in Pleasure's time and featured many of his rich adventuring cohorts. }} In the late 1980s, however, as Walt Disney World prepared to open its third theme park, executives realized that adult guests would want to have a place to go after the parks closed, where they could have a drink or go out dancing. And why, they reasoned, should Disney force such guests to go off-property to the city of [[Orlando]] to find nightlife, when they could keep them (and their money) on-property? The result was '''Pleasure Island''', a themed collection of nightclubs (with a few restaurants and shops scattered among them) built right next door to the Marketplace. It proved successful, keeping Disney visitors on Disney property, and even attracting locals interested in unique nightclubs like the '''Adventurers Club''' and restaurants like '''Planet Hollywood'''. The concept was expanded even further in 1997 with the renaming of the entire area to '''Downtown Disney''', and the opening of the '''Downtown Disney West Side'''{{index|West Side}}{{index|Downtown Disney West Side}}. The West Side, on the far side of Pleasure Island from the Marketplace, was anchored by the giant circus arena created for a '''Cirque du Soleil'''{{index|Cirque du Soleil}} show, and the five-story indoor video play area '''DisneyQuest''' (1998). It also included several high-concept restaurants such as '''Bongos Cuban Cafe''' and '''House of Blues'''. In 2008, Disney closed down the six remaining Pleasure Island nightclubs, leaving it relatively barren, although the restaurants and shops remained open. Disney had announced plans to convert Pleasure Island into a new district called '''Hyperion Wharf''', but that plan was quickly shelved in favor of a new idea. In March 2013, Disney released a 3-yr plan to re-imagine and expand the entire Downtown Disney area as '''Disney Springs''', representing a fictional town that developed around a natural spring in central Florida. In this plan, West Side and Marketplace remain, with West Side re-imagined as an Exposition circa 1950s and Marketplace as American Craftsman circa 1930s, while Pleasure Island was transformed in 2015 to '''The Landing''', a transportation hub and marina with re-purposed industrial buildings circa 1900s. A new '''Town Center''' was created in 2016, on former surface parking lots just to the south of The Landing, to be the central business district with Spanish revival architecture circa 1920s, complete with a bubbling spring running its length. The Town Center serves as the main entrance of the entire four-district Disney Springs complex. To make up for the loss of parking, Disney added two parking structures, Orange and Lime garages, adjacent to West Side and Town Center respectively. With the area's transformation, Disney Springs remains an active and vibrant complex, with greatly expanded variety of non-theme-park entertainment, dining, and shopping for Walt Disney World guests and off-property visitors alike. ==Get in== [[File:Tall fountain, Disney Springs.jpg|alt=|thumb|278x278px|Entrance to the Lime Garage via the Town Center.]] There is no admission fee for Disney Springs in general, although individual attractions may carry a fee. The main entrance is the Town Center opened in 2016 in the middle of the complex. Wheelchair, ECV and stroller rentals are available at the nearby ''Sundries'' location next to the Town Center bus loop. Typhoon Lagoon admission is $49 for adults and $41 for children, unless you have added the Water Park Fun and More option to your Magic Your Way package. ===By car=== Disney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon are on Buena Vista Drive; drive east from Epcot Center Drive or west from Hotel Plaza Boulevard. Parking is free at both locations. During peak periods, valet parking may be available for $25. Two parking structures flank the Town Center main entrance to Disney Springsː the Lime Garage on the right adjacent to Town Center and closer to the Marketplace, and the Orange Garage on the left adjacent to the West Side. There are surface lots on the far end of the West Side. ===By Disney transportation=== [[Image:Downtown Disney - Old Key West water taxi - by davef3138 - retouched.jpg|thumb|One of the ferries that travel between Old Key West and Disney Springs.|246x246px]] Buses and ferries travel to Disney Springs. From any resort, you can take the '''Disney Springs bus'''{{index|Disney Springs bus}} from your resort's bus stop. The buses will drop you off in front of the Town Center. These buses sometimes also stop at Typhoon Lagoon after Disney Springs. '''Ferries''' travel the '''Sassagoula River''' from Port Orleans Riverside, Port Orleans French Quarter, Old Key West, and Saratoga Springs to Disney Springs. The three ferry docks are at the far end of the West Side, at the Landing, and on the bridge between the Marketplace and Saratoga Springs. Saratoga Springs and Downtown Disney Hotel Plaza guests can also '''walk''' to Disney Springs. If you're going to Typhoon Lagoon, take the Disney Springs bus. Before 1PM or so, you can stay on board and the bus will continue on to Typhoon Lagoon. After that time, you may have to switch buses; ask your bus driver for confirmation. You can, of course, arrive at Disney Springs by foot or by boat before transferring to a bus to Typhoon Lagoon. ====From the theme parks==== Because parking at Disney Springs is free, Disney doesn't provide regular direct transportation from Disney Springs to the theme parks or vice versa. Instead, if you want to make the trip, you'll need to transfer at a resort hotel. (The same is true for Typhoon Lagoon.) Your best option might be to take a bus to Saratoga Springs and then make the relatively short walk to Disney Springs. Disney offers direct buses from the four theme parks to Disney Springs daily after 4PM until 11PM or 2 hours after theme parks close, whichever is earlier. There is no corresponding return bus from Disney Springs to the theme parks. ==Get around== [[Image:Map - Walt Disney World - Downtown Disney.png|600px|center|thumb|Map of Disney Springs (Downtown Disney c2010)ː Pleasure Island transformed to The Landing (2015), parking lot just south of it transformed to the Town Center (2016) and the main entrance]] Disney Springs is long and skinny, running roughly northeast-to-west. The northeastern-most end is the '''Disney Springs Marketplace'''. The Marketplace curves down and around to the southwest, where it meets up with '''The Landing''' (on the water front) and '''Town Center''' (to the south near the bus stops). To the west is, of course, the '''Disney Springs West Side''', with the Cirque du Soleil arena at the far end near the ferry terminal. The entire long complex is sandwiched between parking lots/structures on the south side and '''Village Lake''' on the north. From Village Lake, boats can travel the '''Sassagoula River''', which provides access to the Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, and Port Orleans resorts. The Downtown Disney Hotel Plaza, a set of inexpensive non-Disney resorts on Disney property, lies just to the northeast of the Marketplace. If you're tired of walking and need to get from one end of Disney Springs to the other, a free '''shuttle boat''' runs among the three docks (West Side, The Landing, Marketplace) every 15 minutes or so&mdash;make sure you get on the Green Flag boat. ==See and do== [[Image:Venue for Cirque du Soleil's La Nouba at Downtown Disney.jpg|thumb|250px|Cirque du Soleil's massive home on the Disney Springs West Side.|alt=]] You may have come for the shopping or for the food, but you shouldn't overlook the other attractions of Disney Springs. You can go to the movies, bowl a few frames, or even take a trip on the tallest attraction at Walt Disney World. You'll also find '''live entertainment'''&mdash;music and comedy&mdash;at various venues throughout the complex, especially at night. (For example, look for '''Nova Era''', a chamber trio playing classical music with a modern twist, Wednesdays and Thursdays across from the Lime Garage entrance.) * {{do | name=AMC Disney Springs 24 | alt= | url=https://www.amctheatres.com/movie-theatres/orlando-daytona-beach/amc-dine-in-disney-springs-24 | email= | address= | lat=28.370014 | long=-81.521034 | directions=West Side | phone=+1 407 827-1308 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10:30AM-11PM, F Sa 9:45AM-midnight | price=$8-11, Dine-In $3 more, Dolby $4 more | lastedit=2018-07-29 | content=Okay, so you're on vacation in Florida, with four theme parks, two water parks, and a host of recreational activities to choose from; why would you spend ten bucks to sit inside and watch a movie you could see just as easily back home? Good question. Maybe you just need a break from Disney. And the air conditioning can be attractive. Admittedly, this is a very nice multiplex; all 24 theaters have "rocker-style" stadium seating, surround sound, and digital projection, and one screen is a "Dolby Cinema" (providing enhanced audio, a bigger screen, and other improvements). 6 of the auditoriums are Dine-In Theaters, where you can order food and drinks (including beer, wine, and cocktails) right from your seat while you watch a film. }}{{index|multiplex}}{{index|movie theater}}{{index|Dine-In Theatre (AMC)}}{{index|Fork & Screen}} * {{do | name=The Boathouse tours | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= 28.371693 | long=-81.517996 | directions=The Landing | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-22 | content=The Boathouse, Disney Springs' showpiece waterfront restaurant, also offers some unique boat tours. For starters, they have the world's only commercial stable of real 1960s '''Amphicars''', amphibious vehicles that fully reflect the styling of their original era. These captain-guided tours are 20 minutes long and cost $125 per car. They also have an '''Italian water taxi''' called ''Venezia'', for groups up to 20; the tour includes champagne and dessert, with live music, and costs $75/person ($50/child under 13) for 30 minutes. Wine tasting-cruises on the same boat are available for $125 per person or $225 per couple. All tours are available daily 10AM-10PM, weather permitting. Reservations for Amphicars must be made in person, for the Venezia tours, call +1 407 939-2628. }} * {{do | name=Aerophile | alt=formerly Characters in Flight | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.370942 | long=-81.519503 | directions=West Side | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8:30AM-midnight, weather permitting | price=Ages 10+ $20, ages 3-9 $15; $10 before 10:30AM | lastedit=2018-01-27 | content=The only literal "ride" in Disney Springs, but it's the tallest one on the entire property. This tethered hot-air balloon lifts you 400 feet in the air for a breathtaking bird's-eye view of Walt Disney World. }} * {{do | name=Splitsville | alt=bowling | url=http://www.splitsvillelanes.com | email= | address=1494 E Buena Vista Dr | lat=28.370161 | long=-81.521185 | directions=West Side | phone=+1 407-938-7467 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su 10AM-1AM, M-Th 10:30AM-1AM, F 10:30AM-2AM, Sa 10AM-2AM | price=$20/bowler ($15 M-F before 4PM) for 60-105 min of bowling (varies based on party size); shoe rental incl | lastedit=2018-01-27 | content=This growing chain of bowling centers seems like a perfect fit for the nightlife-and-entertainment atmosphere of the West Side—and with 30 lanes spread over two floors, this is the largest Splitsville ever built. Far more than just a bowling alley, Splitsville features bowling concierges who bring your shoes, balls, and food right to your lane; an extensive restaurant menu with both casual and innovative cuisine; a full bar; and live music every night. With so much to do, even people who don't bowl can have a great time. }} ===Typhoon Lagoon=== [[Image:WDW Crush 'n' Gusher.JPG|thumb|250px|The Crush 'n' Gusher is not your normal water slide&mdash;see how it actually goes ''up'' there?]] According to Disney Imagineering legend, years ago, a fishing trawler named '''''Miss Tilly'''''{{index|Miss Tilly}} found itself caught in a powerful hurricane. When the torrent subsided, the boat found itself perched precariously atop '''Mt. Mayday''', with water still gushing down through channels and valleys to a lake below. What else was there to do but for the survivors to create '''[http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/typhoon-lagoon/ Typhoon Lagoon]'''? Typhoon Lagoon is the '''second-most-visited water park''' in the world (Chime-Long WaterPark in [[Guangzhou]], [[China]], just barely passed it in 2013), and is a great place to beat the Summer heat from June through September. While its theme is not as whimsically inventive as that of its sister park, [[Walt Disney World/Animal Kingdom#Blizzard Beach|Blizzard Beach]], Typhoon Lagoon excels at providing guests a consistent and energetic setting for some of the best water rides in the world. But do keep an eye out for the unique touches the Imagineers have brought to the decor, including scattered remnants of ships' cargoes and even palm trees supposedly bent low by the hurricane! Typhoon Lagoon is not far from Disney Springs, and the two often share bus routes. The park is usually open from 10AM&ndash;5PM, and admission is $52 for adults or $44 for kids ages 3-10. Admission to the water park counts as one of your "Fun Visits" if you've added either the Water Park Fun & More or the Park Hopper Plus options to your [[Walt Disney World#Tickets|tickets]]&mdash;and note that just one admission almost pays for the cost of the option. The direct telephone number for Typhoon Lagoon is +1 407 560-4141. Typhoon Lagoon closes for annual refurbishment every fall or winter, almost always including the month of December (during which Blizzard Beach remains open to provide a bit of Christmas-in-Florida atmosphere). * {{do | name=Castaway Creek | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3657 | long=-81.5287 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A 2,000-foot (610 m) tubing river that winds through the whole park. }} * {{do | name=Crush 'n Gusher Water 'Rollercoaster' | alt= | url=https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/attractions/typhoon-lagoon/crush-and-gusher/ | email= | address= | lat=28.366679 | long=-81.527943 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Crush 'n' Gusher | image=WDW Crush 'n' Gusher.JPG | wikidata=Q5190183 | content=What do you get when you cross a water slide with a roller coaster? This! }} * {{do | name=Gangplank Falls | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3657 | long=-81.5305 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A family ride, in four-passenger tubes. }} * {{do | name=Humunga Kowabunga | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3664 | long=-81.5305 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Three 214 foot (65 m) long slides send you plummeting straight down, at a terrifying five stories per second! }} * {{do | name=Keelhaul Falls | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3654 | long=-81.5306 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A whitewater rafting experience. }} * {{do | name=Ketchakiddee Creek | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3651 | long=-81.5305 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A children's play area. }} * {{do | name=Mayday Falls | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3655 | long=-81.5306 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Inner tube slide winding down the side of an artificial mountain. }} * {{do | name=Miss Adventure Falls | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.36673444539035| long=-81.52881568132082 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-03-14 | content=Family raft ride through a collection of sunken treasures. }} * {{do | name=Storm Slides | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3665 | long=-81.5306 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Three 30-mph (48 km/h) slides through dark caverns. }} * {{do | name=Surf Pool | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.36584445230935| long=-81.52972400739435 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the world's largest wave pools with some of the largest artificially created waves. Take advantage of the surfing lessons offered here. }} ===Golf=== There is one 18-hole championship '''golf course''' in the Disney Springs area. See "[[Walt Disney World#Golf|Golf]]" in the overview for rules and regulations. Monday through Friday, 18 holes will cost $89 if you're staying at a Disney hotel, and $104 otherwise. On weekends, add $10. During the summer, 10AM-3PM tee times are discounted; ask for the "Summer Price Slice" when you call. Late afternoon tee times are $59 on weekdays and $69 on weekends for everyone. Call +1 407 WDW-GOLF (939-4653) to reserve a tee time. * {{do | name=Lake Buena Vista Golf Course | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/recreation/lake-buena-vista-golf-course/ | email= | address=2200 Club Lake Dr | lat=28.3749 | long=-81.5223 | directions=off Buena Vista Dr, north of Saratoga Springs | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This golf course meanders throughout the area north of Disney Springs, starting adjacent to the Saratoga Springs Resort, crossing the Sassagoula River, and running right through the middle of the Old Key West Resort. At 6.819 yards (6.235 m), with narrow fairways and even a challenging island green on hole 7, this golf course will give a great tour of the scenery around the Disney Springs-area resorts. }} <!--* {{do | name=Osprey Ridge Golf Course | url=http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/golf/osprey-ridge-golf-course/ | email= | address=3451 Golf View Dr | lat= | long= | directions=off Vista Way | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Designed by Tom Fazio, Osprey Ridge sits far to the north of Downtown Disney, across Vista Way from Port Orleans, not far from Fort Wilderness Campground. Osprey Ridge is perhaps the most photogenic of Disney's golf courses, surrounded by majestic stands of trees and thriving wetlands. This 7,101-yard, par-72 course is also a Certified Audubon Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary. }}{{index|Fazio, Tom}}--> ===Spa=== * {{do | name=Senses – A Disney Spa | alt= | url=https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/spas/saratoga-springs-resort-and-spa/spa-at-saratoga-springs-resort/ | email= | address= | lat=28.376 | long=-81.5222 | directions=Saratoga Springs Resort | phone=+1 407-WDW-SPAS | tollfree= | hours=8AM-8PM | price=Expect to pay about $140 for a 50-minute treatment, or $200 for an 80-minute treatment, with plenty of more expensive packages available | content=[[Saratoga Springs]], New York, was once known for its healing and relaxing mineral waters, a tradition carried forward at this full-service spa and health club. The expected wide array of massages, facial and full-body treatments, and manicures and pedicures are all available here, and they're not restricted to guests staying at the resort. }}{{index|spa}}{{index|massage}} ===Waterfront recreation=== The Riverside section of Disney's Port Orleans Resort has an old-fashioned '''Fishin' Hole''', with cane rods and plenty of bluegill, bass, and catfish to catch (though you may have some competition, in the form of a river otter). Hours normally 7AM-1:45PM daily. ==Buy== Disney Springs is a retail mecca, a mall done Disney-style. The highest concentration of Disney-themed merchandise shops is in the '''Marketplace''', the eastern part of Disney Springs. The new '''Town Center''' holds most of the chain stores one might find in any American mall, but also is home to more unique retailers not easily found elsewhere. Many of the stores here also sell exclusive Disney-inspired designs. The rest of Disney Springs has fewer shops, but the '''West Side''' does house some specialty retailers, with a lot less mouse ears. For shops without direct phone numbers, you can call Guest Relations at +1 407 828-3150. Press '3' and tell the operator which store you wish to contact. All stores at Disney Springs open at 10AM and close at 11PM (11:30PM Friday and Saturday). ===Marketplace=== [[File:Disney Springs (23169700192).jpg|alt=|thumb|250x250px|The center of the Marketplace.]] The Marketplace is anchored by the 51,000-square-foot (4,700-m²) '''World of Disney''': * {{buy | name=World of Disney | alt= | url=https://www.disneysprings.com/shopping/world-of-disney/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3712 | long=-81.5151 | directions= | phone=+1 407 828-1451 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A Disney Store on steroids, with a truly stunning array of character and park merchandise. This is ''the'' place to go if you can't find a souvenir you like anywhere else. }} If that doesn't suit your fancy, try out these other shops: * {{buy | name=Crystal Arts by Arribas Brothers | alt= | url=http://www.arribas.com/ | email=arribaswdw@arribas.com | address= | lat=28.4176 | long=-81.5811 | directions= | phone=+1 407 828-4840 | tollfree= | fax=+1 407 828-8019 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Since 1967, Arribas Brothers has been crafting metal, crystal, and glass into works of art featuring iconic Disney characters and settings. The store sparkles with light refracted through the many creations; you have to at least wander through the place even if you don't intend to buy anything. }} * {{buy | name=The Art of Disney | alt= | url=https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/shops/disney-springs/art-of-disney-downtown/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3731 | long=-81.5155 | directions= | phone=+1 407 828-3929 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=An art gallery a-la-Disney, filled with works that wouldn't look out of place in a museum, whether they had a Disney theme or not. Fun to browse, but don't think you can't afford the stuff in here; there's lots to be had for very reasonable prices. Of course, if you feel like splurging, you can't really go wrong here, either. }} * {{buy | name=Basin | alt= | url=https://basin.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb&utm_content=buena-vista-drive | email= | address= | lat=28.3715 | long=-81.51456 | directions= | phone=+1 407 827-8080 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=All-natural bath and skin-care products. }} * {{buy | name=Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.373 | long=-81.5139 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM-9PM | price=$50-250 | lastedit=2016-06-28 | content=Just like the one at Cinderella Castle in the [[Walt Disney World/Magic Kingdom#Buy|Magic Kingdom]], Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is the place to go for a little girl who wants to get the full princess treatment. Her "fairy godmother" will do her up right with makeup, hairstyle, and other accouterments, although Mom and Dad will have to pay for the privilege. Very popular; appointments (call +1 407 WDW-STYLE (939-7895)) are strongly recommended. }}{{index|Design-A-Tee}} * {{buy | name=Disney's Days of Christmas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.373 | long=-81.5152 | directions= | phone=+1 407 828-3759 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=There are 365 days of Christmas at this shop, with a much larger selection than Magic Kingdom's Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe or [[Hollywood Studios]]' It's a Wonderful Shop. }}{{index|Christmas}}{{index|Days of Christmas}} * {{buy | name=Disney's Pin Traders | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3725 | long=-81.5147 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The largest trading-pin store at Walt Disney World, which means it's a gathering place for pin trading as well as purchasing. }}{{index|pin trading}} *{{buy | name=Disney's Wonderful World of Memories | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3732 | long=-81.5154 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Pick up personalized hats and leather goods and special seasonal merchandise (like graduation gear!) at this unique shop. }} * {{buy | name=The LEGO Store | alt= | url=https://www.lego.com/en-us/stores/store/disney-springs | email= | address= | lat=28.3712 | long=-81.5159 | directions= | phone=+1 407 828-0065 | tollfree= | fax=+1 407 828-0059 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Here you can gawk at the LEGO sculptures, try your hand at building some of your own, or shop for that one set that you're missing from your collection. Don't miss the Pick-A-Brick wall, an entire section devoted to ''à la carte'' brick bins; replace that one missing piece or assemble your own custom set! }} * {{buy | name=Marketplace Co-Op | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3721 | long=-81.5145 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=A selection of small boutiques-within-the-store, with Disney changing the concepts within as the market demands. As of summer 2018, the six boutiques offer wares such as women's accessories, men's apparel, travel accessories, unique Disney art, home goods, and personalized electronics accessories. }} * {{buy | name=Mickey's Pantry | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3729 | long=-81.5149 | directions= | phone=+1 407 828-3886 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Kitchen products and other housewares; the adjacent '''Spice & Tea Exchange''' store pairs nicely. }} * {{buy | name=Once Upon a Toy | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3726 | long=-81.5143 | directions= | phone=+1 407 934-7775 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=WDW's second-largest collection of Disney toys (after World of Disney). It may seem redundant with that mega-store next door, but Once Upon a Toy specializes in third-party toys with a Disney theme (like board games and Rubik's cubes) and non-Disney merchandise (check out the Mr. Potato Head parts bin). }}{{index|Mr. Potato Head}}{{index|Potato Head, Mr.}}{{index|My Little Pony}}{{index|Rubik's cube}}{{index|board games}}{{index|games, board}}{{index|video games}}{{index|games, video}}{{index|The Wonderful World of Gaming}} *{{buy | name=Star Wars Trading Post | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3726 | long=-81.515 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=It's here that you can build-your-own ''Star Wars'' lightsaber or droid if the store in Hollywood Studios is too busy for you. A selection of other gear from a galaxy "far far away" is also available. }} * {{buy | name=Tren-D | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3724 | long=-81.5144 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=An eclectic shop with contemporary Disney-inspired designs for teenage fashionistas. The designs here tend to be unique to this store; it's worth a look if you're in the market for less "touristy" fare. }} Gift shops inside the '''Rainforest Cafe''' and '''T-Rex''' restaurants also sell a variety of specialized themed merchandise. Inside of T-Rex specifically, the gift shop includes a Build-A-Bear Workshop outpost with a twist; '''Build-A-Dino''' allows you to create your very own dinosaur stuffed animal. Throughout the Marketplace area, '''various kiosks''' sell goods ranging from pearl jewelry and custom rings to gifts for your dog and items made just for those that are left-handed. === Town Center === [[File:Under Armour, Disney Springs.jpg|thumb|279x279px|The Under Armour Brand House in the Town Center.]] This is the newest and most "mall" section of Disney Springs, but nevertheless, many of the chains here have a very limited selection of brick-and-mortar stores, with their Disney Springs location being one of their only outlets. * {{buy|name=American Threads|alt=|url=https://www.shopamericanthreads.com/|email=|address=|directions=|lat=28.369649461615992 |long=-81.5178536494140|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-07-30|content=Pick up trendsetting styles with a bohemian flair at this hip, chic women's boutique selling everything from rompers to unique accessories.}} * {{buy | name=Coca-Cola Store | alt= | url=https://us.coca-cola.com/store/stores/orlando | email= | address=1512 E Buena Vista Dr | lat=28.369312020658892| long=-81.51906960123662 | directions= | phone=+1 407-560-0107 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-11PM daily | price= | lastedit=2022-01-14 | content=Check out this "former bottling plant", now selling exclusive Coke merchandise. You can also meet the company's Polar Bear mascot and enjoy the '''rooftop beverage bar''' including international soft drinks and frozen beverages, and evening cocktails and alcoholic smoothies. }} * {{buy|name=Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories|alt=|url=|email=|address=|directions=|lat=28.37017489139288 |long=-81.51669680522139|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-07-30|content=Disney-themed handbags, necklaces, bracelets and more at this temporary shop open while World of Disney undergoes a makeover.}} * {{buy|name=Free People|alt=|url=https://www.freepeople.com/|email=|address=|directions=|lat=28.369433858493753|long=-81.51766105836356|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-07-30|content=Hip boutique specializing in bohemian-style apparel and accessories with a modern influence.}} * {{buy|name=Johnny Was|alt=|url=https://www.johnnywas.com/|email=|address=|directions=|lat=28.36952466491385|long=-81.51804217712926|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-07-30|content=Chic bohemian looks are also sold at this small shop; perfect spot to pick up maxi dresses and silk scarves.}} * {{buy|name=Lacoste|alt=|url=https://www.lacoste.com/us/|email=|address=|directions=|lat=28.369662228456626 |long=-81.51665778394381|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-07-30|content=The famous iconic crocodile is featured on shirts and more for men, women, and children at this fashionable French chain. Complimentary monogramming is offered on all polo shirt purchases.}} * {{buy|name=Lilly Pulitzer|alt=|url=https://www.lillypulitzer.com/|email=|address=|directions=|lat=28.36955721049763|long=-81.51778308361288|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-07-30|content=Playful prints cover everything from clothing to accessories to home decor, capturing a unique vacation vibe inspired by their Floridian beginnings.}} * {{buy | name=L'Occitane en Provence | alt= | url=https://usa.loccitane.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3706 | long=-81.5168 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Sample a range of all-natural skincare and beauty products before you buy one at this French apothecary. Mix your own essential oils or receive a complimentary mini facial or hand massage while you browse. }} * {{buy | name=Origins | alt= | url=https://www.origins.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3695 | long=-81.5172 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=High-performance botanical skincare products are sold alongside in-store complimentary mini facials and customized samples. }} * {{buy | name=Orlando Harley-Davidson | alt= | url=http://www.orlandoharley.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3706 | long=-81.5158 | directions= | phone=+1 407-938-0522 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Okay, so you can't actually buy a Harley here, but you can buy Harley logo merchandise and drool over the custom hogs on display. }} * {{buy | name=Shore | alt= | url=https://shorebrand.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3699 | long=-81.5165 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Beach-inspired boutique selling swimwear, tees, and accessories fit for a Floridian lifestyle. }} * {{buy | name=Stance | alt= | url=https://www.stance.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37 | long=-81.5164 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Online startup retailer specializing in unique sock designs for all ages and genders. }} * {{buy | name=Superdry | alt= | url=https://www.superdry.com/us/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3701 | long=-81.5164 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=This British brand offers up high-quality fabrics featuring unique vintage American and Japanese-influenced graphics on items like hoodies, T-shirts, and flip-flops. }} * {{buy | name=Tumi | alt= | url=https://www.tumi.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3703 | long=-81.5165 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Luxurious backpacks, briefcases, luggage, and accessories are sold at this boutique for the modern traveller. }} * {{buy | name=Under Armour Brand House | alt= | url=https://www.underarmour.com/en-us/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3704 | long=-81.5163 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=More than just a regular Under Armour store, this two-floor emporium sells the latest in athletic apparel, shoes, and fitness gadgets. A massive sneaker wall and a special area where athletes can test their skills round out the unique offerings. }} * {{buy | name=Uniqlo | alt= | url=http://www.uniqlo.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3708 | long=-81.5161 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=The explosive growth of this Japanese-born retailer is a testament to the quality and style of their clothing, available for men, women, kids, and even infants. Special Disney-exclusive brands at this store make it worth a visit. }} * {{buy | name=UNOde50 | alt= | url=https://www.unode50.com/us/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3701 | long=-81.5166 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Unique, handcrafted Spanish jewelry for both men and women artfully designed in limited quantities. }} * {{buy | name=Volcom | alt= | url=https://www.volcom.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3707 | long=-81.5157 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Store specializing in sporty apparel for skateboarding, snowboarding, and surfing. }} Other, more standard "mall" stores here include '''[https://www.anthropologie.com/ Anthropologie]''', '''[https://www.coach.com/ Coach]''', '''[https://www.columbia.com/ Columbia Sportswear]''', '''[https://www.everythingbutwater.com/ Everything But Water]''', '''[https://www.francescas.com/ francesca's]''', '''[https://www.katespade.com/ kate spade new york]{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}''', '''[https://www.luckybrand.com/ Lucky Brand]''', '''[https://www.maccosmetics.com/ MAC Cosmetics]''', '''[http://www.oakley.com/ Oakley]''', '''[https://us.pandora.net/ Pandora Jewelry]''', '''[https://www.sephora.com/ Sephora]''', '''[https://www.sperry.com/en/home Sperry]''', '''[https://www.tommybahama.com/ Tommy Bahama]''', '''UGG''', and '''[https://www.verabradley.com/us/Home Vera Bradley]'''. There are also some unique specialty stores spread around the Town Center, with eyeglasses at '''[https://www.edwardbeiner.com/ Edward Beiner Purveyor of Fine Eyewear]'''; handbags and backpacks at '''[https://www.kipling-usa.com/ Kipling]'''; jewelry at '''[https://www.alexandani.com/ Alex and Ani]''', '''[http://www.diamondsinternational.com/ Luxury of Time by Diamonds International]''', and '''[https://www.nahoku.com/ Na Hoku - Hawaii's Finest Jewelers];''' shoes at '''[https://www.johnstonmurphy.com/ Johnston & Murphy]''', and '''[https://www.shopmelissa.com/ Melissa Shoes]'''; and art and home goods at '''[https://www.sugarbooandco.com/ Sugarboo & Co]'''. '''[https://planet-hollywood.myshopify.com/collections/the-store-at-planet-hollywood-observatory? The Store at Planet Hollywood]''' also sells a variety of themed apparel and souvenirs. ===The Landing=== [[File:Springs of Disney Springs (26531038654).jpg|alt=|thumb|312x312px|The Landing, viewed from Town Center.]] Dominated by restaurants and bars, there are some smaller shops tucked in among the large eateries on this island. * {{buy | name=Art of Shaving | alt= | url=https://www.theartofshaving.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3708 | long=-81.5184 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Classic, refined store selling high-end grooming essentials for the modern man. The connected '''Barber Spa''' offers pricey but thorough haircuts and shaves. }} * {{buy | name=Chapel Hats | alt= | url=http://chapelhats.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3716 | long=-81.5177 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=A store specializing in every kind of headwear you could think of, from fedoras to sun hats and fancy top hats to kid's caps. }} * {{buy | name=Erwin Pearl | alt= | url=http://www.erwinpearl.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3711 | long=-81.5182 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=An "affordable luxury" jewelry chain featuring unique, handcrafted bracelets, earrings, necklaces, rings, pins, and charms. }} * {{buy | name=Havaianas | alt= | url=http://us.havaianas.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3717 | long=-81.5176 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Offering casual footwear, this Brazilian chain lays claim to be the home of the "original" flip-flops. In addition to the over 300 unique styles, you can design-your-own. }} * {{buy | name=Sanuk | alt= | url=https://www.sanuk.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.3709 | long=-81.5184 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Searching for sandals, flats, or other foorwear? This shop stocks unique shoes with fun designs crafted from interesting materials, like yoga mats. }} * {{buy | name=Savannah Bee Company | alt= | url=https://savannahbee.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.371 | long=-81.5182 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Pick up some locally-grown, all-natural honey as well as luxurious body care goods made from the honey. }} '''Kiosks''' in the "Riverboat Square" plaza near the bridge to the Marketplace sell goods ranging from hammocks, to bath and body products, to movie-replica jewelry. Both the '''Boathouse Boatique''' and Raglan Road's '''Shop for Ireland''' stock unique goods based on their respective restaurant's theme. [[File:Harley-Davidson Store at Disney Springs (22883953737).jpg|thumb|242x242px|The Disney Springs West Side.]] === West Side === The West Side's stores are all larger, specialty shops focused on a specific type of merchandise or brand.{{index|Sammy Duvall (surf shop)}}{{index|Duvall, Sammy}} *{{buy | name=Disney's Candy Cauldron | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/shops/disney-springs/disneys-candy-cauldron/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37014 | long=-81.52017 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=There's no shortage of candy shops in Disney World, but this one features a show kitchen, too, if you'd like to watch the sweet stuff being made. }}{{index|Candy Cauldron}} *{{buy | name=DisneyStyle | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/shops/disney-springs/disneystyle/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37007 | long=-81.51965 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Hip, trendy and fashionable apparel and accessories inspired by Disney's characters and attractions. }} *{{buy | name=Fit2Run | alt= | url=https://www.fit2run.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.36963 | long=-81.51797 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=This is ''the'' place for athletic footwear. A complimentary evaluation includes a video-taped gait analysis and an iStep barometric scan to help you find the perfect pair. To try them out, an indoor track is perfect for test runs. }}{{index|smoke shop}}{{index|Cigar shop}} *{{buy | name=Star Wars Galactic Outpost | alt= | url=https://www.disneysprings.com/shopping/star-wars-galactic-outpost/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37012 | long=-81.51981 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=An extensive array of toys, apparel, and collectibles from the ''Star Wars'' saga. }} *{{buy | name=Sunglass Icon | alt= | url=https://www.sunglasshut.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37014 | long=-81.52033 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Just what it says on the door: all the designer sunglasses you could possibly want. }} *{{buy | name=Super Hero Headquarters | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/shops/disney-springs/super-hero-headquarters/ | email= | address= | lat=28.36999 | long=-81.52004 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=A high-tech shop featuring all sorts of Marvel superhero merchandise. }} *{{buy | name=Pelé Soccer | alt= | url=https://www.pelesoccer.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37015 | long=-81.52046 | directions= | phone=+1 407-560-0605 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-07-30 | content=Soccer gear from around the world, including both equipment and logo merchandise. }} '''Bongos Cuban Café Souvenir and Gift Shop''', Splitsville's '''Memory Lanes''', and the '''House of Blues Company Store''' all offer unique themed gifts specific to each restaurant and venue. ==Eat== Disney Springs is Disney World's largest dining destination, and while it is geared primarily towards adults, all of the restaurants are family-friendly (at least before nightfall). You won't find many "generic" restaurants here; each one has a distinct hook or drawing card that brings in the crowds. If you run out of time to try them all, well, now you have something to look forward to on your next visit, right? See [[Walt Disney World#Eat|Eat]] in the main Walt Disney World article for information on the Disney restaurant pricing system, character dining, dietary restrictions, and advance dining reservations. The telephone numbers below are for extraordinary circumstances only; for reservations and most health or diet issues, call the main Disney Dining number at +1 407 WDW-DINE (939-3463). Although most of these restaurants are run by outside companies, they all now accept the Disney Dining Plan. The Boathouse, Morimoto Asia, Paddlefish, and STK Orlando are Signature Restaurants and require two table-service credits; the other table-service restaurants require only one. ===Marketplace=== The Disney Springs Marketplace is where you'll find the kid-friendliest food options; the restaurants close earlier so they don't have as many late-night entertainment options. Marketplace restaurants are open from 9AM to 11PM daily. * {{eat | name=Earl of Sandwich | alt= | url=https://earlofsandwichusa.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37296 | long=-81.51472 | directions= | phone=+1 407 938-1762 | tollfree= | fax=+1 407 938-0123 | hours= | price=$6 | content=This very popular eatery comes by its name honestly: this is the flagship location of a growing chain of sandwich shops co-founded by John Montagu, the 11th Earl of Sandwich himself. Far more than your ordinary sandwich shop, these are some of the best hot sandwiches you'll ever have the pleasure of biting into. The house specialty is "The Original 1762", with roast beef, cheddar cheese, and horseradish. The line is long but moves steadily; there are so many choices you may have trouble deciding before you reach the front! }}{{index|Sandwich, 11th Earl of}}{{index|Montagu, John, 11th Earl of Sandwich}} * {{eat | name=Rainforest Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.rainforestcafe.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37267 | long=-81.51568 | directions= | phone=+1 407 827-8500 | tollfree= | hours= | price=$13–32 | content=One of two WDW locations for this chain restaurant, which features animatronic animals, thunderstorms, and good food. There's a big gift shop packed with Rainforest Cafe logos, too. One word of warning&mdash;the animatronics can be a bit startling, as they sometimes come to life suddenly; some kids might find them unsettling. }} * {{eat | name=T-Rex | alt= | url=https://www.trexcafe.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37107 | long=-81.51663 | directions= | phone=+1 407 828-TREX | tollfree= | hours= | price=$12–30 | content=This new restaurant, the second one in the chain, is a lot like Rainforest Cafe, but with prehistoric creatures instead of modern animals. The "Dino-Store" gift shop features just about what you'd expect, but don't miss the Build-A-Dino area, run by Build-A-Bear Workshop. It tends to be one of the most popular restaurants in Disney Springs, so reservations are highly recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Wolfgang Puck Express | alt= | url=https://wolfgangpuck.com/restaurants/wolfgang-puck-bar-grill-orlando/ | email= | address= | lat=28.36932 | long=-81.51859 | directions= | phone=+1 407 828-0107 | tollfree= | hours= | price=$10–16 | content=Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck has his name on three restaurants at Disney Springs. This is the most casual of them, with a variety of traditional favorites including Italian and barbecue entrees. They're all expertly prepared and some have added just a little twist from Puck. }}{{index|Puck, Wolfgang}} === Town Center === * {{eat | name=Frontera Cocina | alt= | url=https://fronteracocina.com/ | email= | address=1486 Buena Vista Dr | lat=28.37065 | long=-81.51719 | directions= | phone=+1 407-228-1901 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2016-06-09 | content=Chef Rick Bayless has created a heavily Mexican-flavored eatery for Disney Springs. All the standard south-of-the-border staples are here: enchiladas, tacos, quesadillas, guacamole... but each expertly prepared and presented with some additional flavors you may not be used to. There's also a takeout window with a couple of taco options and margaritas. }} ===The Landing=== Pleasure Island's nightclubs are a thing of the past, but The Landing is home to some new and very good restaurants. They're for the most part not heavily themed, but they're well worth checking out if you're in the mood for high-quality food without loud music&mdash;or loud dinosaurs&mdash;interrupting your meal. [[File:Disney Springs (27832907556).jpg|thumb|The Boathouse in The Landing|237x237px]] * {{eat | name=The Boathouse | alt= | url=https://theboathouseorlando.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37179 | long=-81.51801 | directions= | phone=+1 407 939-2628 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-1:30AM | price=$15-35 per adult; Dining Plan requires two credits | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=The Boathouse is an expansive upscale waterfront restaurant, the centerpiece of The Landing. With five dining areas and three bars with outdoor seating and live entertainment daily, it's an extremely popular destination. The casual and fun boathouse atmosphere draws raves. There are vintage and classic boats all around the docks and some are available for tours! (See "Do" section below) On the menu, steaks and seafood are the specialties, served simply but with excellent quality and preparation. }} *{{eat | name=Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' | alt= | url=https://www.homecominkitchen.com/#home | email= | address= | lat=28.37046 | long=-81.51819 | directions= | phone=+1 407 560-0100 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11AM- 11PM, F Sa 11PM-midnight, Su 10AM-11PM | price=$15-35 per adult | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=This celebrity chef returns to his roots at this homey restaurant serving up the best Floridian cuisine has to offer. Specialties include their fried chicken, Florida grouper, and "shine" cake made from their house moonshine. An extensive range of cocktails made with local ingredients are a perfect compliment to the meal. A walk-up window outside offers up a limited menu to-go. }} *{{eat | name=The Edison | alt= | url=https://www.theedisonfla.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37085 | long=-81.51874 | directions= | phone=+1 407 560-9288 | tollfree= | hours=Su-W 11:30AM-1AM, Th-Sa 11:30AM-2AM | price=$15-$35 per adult | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=Step into this cavernous, industrial gothic hotspot for American cuisine, craft cocktails, and exciting entertainment. Set within the island's old power plant, the second outpost of this Los Angeles icon is 21+ after 10PM, and offers late-night music and entertainment from Thursday through Saturday. Note: a dress code is in place nightly after 10, with ball caps, sleeveless shirts, and flip-flops not allowed. }} *{{eat | name=Maria & Enzo's Ristorante | alt= | url=https://www.patinagroup.com/maria-enzos | email= | address= | lat=28.37071 | long=-81.51899 | directions= | phone=+1 407 560-8466 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 11:30AM-10PM, F Sa 11:30AM-10PM | price=$15-$35 per adult | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=Traditional Italian restaurant cooking up authentic pastas and parmigianas in a "restored" 1930s-era air terminal setting. }} **{{eat | name=Pizza Ponte | alt= | url=https://www.patinagroup.com/pizza-ponte | email= | address= | lat=28.37057 | long=-81.51894 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight | price=Under $15 per adult | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=An array of authentic Italian slices are served up all day at this counter-service pizzeria with limited seating within the larger Maria & Enzo's building. }} **{{eat | name=Enzo's Hideaway | alt= | url=https://www.patinagroup.com/enzos-hideaway | email= | address= | lat=28.37038 | long=-81.51885 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 11:30AM-midnight, F Sa 11:30AM-1AM | price=$15-35 per adult | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=Enjoy classic Italian dishes and sip unique cocktails while you listen to solo jazz artists late into the night at this rediscovered 1920s speakeasy hidden beneath the air terminal that houses Maria & Enzo's. }} [[File:Morimoto Restaurant in Disney Springs (27376853234).jpg|thumb|Morimoto Asia Restaurant]] * {{eat | name=Morimoto Asia | alt= | url=https://www.morimotoasia.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37065 | long=-81.51818 | directions= | phone=+1 407-939-6686 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 11:30AM-midnight, F Sa 11:30AM-1AM | price=$15-35 per adult; Dining Plan requires two credits | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto has opened this enormous eatery to bring a pan-Asian flavor to Disney Springs. Dressed as the former Disney Springs Bottling Company, the restaurant features a gleaming metal and crystal interior with numerous dining areas and a bar that stretches across the building's two stories. Morimoto's specialty has always been Japanese fusion, but here he brings in flavors from throughout East Asia, as well as Western-inspired dishes with signature Asian touches. An outside walk-up window, '''Street Food''', serves ramen, sushi, and more at a cheaper price. }} * {{eat | name=Paddlefish | alt= | url=https://www.paddlefishrestaurant.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37165 | long=-81.5169 | directions= | phone=+1 407 934-2628 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 11:30AM-11PM, F Sa 11:30AM-midnight | price=Lunch $15-35, Dinner $35-60 per adult, Dining Plan requires two credits | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=A long time ago, before Pleasure Island was even a glimmer in anyone's eye, this was the '''Empress Lilly''', a replica (but non-functioning) paddle-wheel steamboat named for Walt Disney's widow. After many years as '''Fulton's Crab House''', its newest incarnation is '''Paddlefish'''. As with its predecessors, the specialty is seafood. Although the three floors each offer a different experience, with the open top deck particularly appealing, the view still pales in comparison to the seafood-focused Coral Reef Restaurant in [[Epcot]]. }}{{index|Empress Lilly}} * {{eat | name=Paradiso 37 | alt= | url=https://paradiso37.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37099 | long=-81.51846 | directions= | phone=+1 407 934-3700 | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnght, Bar until 2AM | price=$15-35 per adult | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=This eatery features selections from throughout the 37 countries of the Western Hemisphere: from burgers to burritos, and from salmon to arepas. }} * {{eat | name=Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.raglanroad.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37108 | long=-81.51775 | directions= | phone=+1 407 938-0300 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-11PM, late night until 1AM (1:30 on weekends) | price=$15-35 per adult | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=You ought to feel "lucky" to dine at this Irish restaurant, which of course wouldn't be complete without a full-service bar built in Ireland and shipped over. Live entertainment from 6PM until midnight, six nights a week. }} **{{eat | name=Cooke's of Dublin | alt= | url=https://www.raglanroad.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37126 | long=-81.51741 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11AM-midnight | price=$9–12 | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=Adjacent to Raglan Road, Cooke's is known for its fish and chips. In fact, there's not much else on the menu, but what they do have, they do very well. }} * {{eat | name=STK Orlando | alt= | url=https://togrp.com/stk-steakhouse/ | email= | address=1580 E Buena Vista Dr | lat=28.3706 | long=-81.51864 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=; Dining Plan requires two credits | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=An aggressively modern upscale steakhouse, STK Orlando borrows several signature dishes from other restaurants in the small chain, as well as adding a few unique localized dishes of its own. Big space with a fair bit of outdoor patio seating. }} *{{eat | name=Terralina Crafted Italian | alt= | url=https://www.terralinacrafteditalian.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37172 | long=-81.51735 | directions= | phone=+1 407 934-8888 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 11:30AM-11PM | price=$15-35 per adult | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=Waterfront dining in this Italian country home with a wide variety of traditional Italian dishes, including some served family-style. }} ===West Side=== The West Side is the home of the celebrity restaurant. Movie stars, comedians, singers, and even a celebrity chef have all created venues here that reflect their own personalities and proclivities. West Side restaurants are open from 11AM to midnight daily.{{index|Estefan, Gloria}}{{index|Estefan, Emilio}}{{index|Wonderland Cafe}} * {{eat | name=House of Blues | alt= | url=https://www.houseofblues.com/ | email= | address=1490 E Buena Vista Dr | lat=28.37103 | long=-81.52196 | directions= | phone=+1 407 934-BLUE | tollfree= | hours= | price=$11–27 | content=You can't miss this place; just head for the 100-foot water tower! Dan Aykroyd&mdash;that's right, Elwood Blues himself&mdash;co-founded this chain of rocking establishments that are both restaurant and live music venue. You'll find some free music in the various dining rooms every night, with major acts booked in the main hall that have a separate admission fee. But don't overlook the food&mdash;you'll find a variety of hearty down-home Southern meals from burgers to jambalaya. }}{{index|Aykroyd, Dan}}{{index|Blues, Elwood}} ** {{eat | name=The Smokehouse | alt= | url=https://www.houseofblues.com/orlando/smokehouse | email= | address= | lat=28.3707 | long=-81.52199 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=If you hanker for some barbecue but don't want to wait for a table at the Crossroads (the main House of Blues dining room), try this counter service location at the side of the building. }} * {{eat | name=Planet Hollywood Observatory | alt= | url=https://www.planethollywood.com/ | email= | address= | lat=28.36971 | long=-81.51877 | directions= | phone=+1 407 827-7827 | tollfree= | fax=+1 407 827-7847 | hours= | price=$12–27 | content=Founded by Demi Moore, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, and Bruce Willis, the Planet Hollywood chain has never been as successful as they hoped, but it's still a great place to gawk at celebrity paraphernalia and enjoy a good meal at the same time. This giant spherical structure sits between the Town Center and the West Side, and it's usually pretty busy. Just like at a Hard Rock Cafe, part of the appeal is buying a T-shirt identifying the location you visited; if you don't want to brave the crowds at the restaurant, you can check out their standalone store just down the street on the West Side. }}{{index|Moore, Demi}}{{index|Schwarzenegger, Arnold}}{{index|Stallone, Sylvester}}{{index|Willis, Bruce}} ===Food trucks=== Disney's dipping their toe into the food truck phenomenon. They've constructed a Food Truck Park on the West Side near Bongos Cuban Cafe. There are four Disney food trucks, each one representing one of the four theme parks, but since they're mobile they may or may not be present on any given day. Non-Disney trucks may also be found on occasion, especially if one of the Disney trucks is elsewhere. The trucks serve food daily, opening between 1PM and 5PM (depending on crowd levels) and closing at 11PM. For the four Disney food trucks, entrees cost $8&ndash;15, or you can use a quick-service credit from the Dining Plan. * {{eat | name=Fantasy Fare | alt=Magic Kingdom | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular dishes from Disney's worldwide theme parks that aren't usually available in Florida, like Disneyland's hand-dipped corn dogs. }} * {{eat | name=Springs' Street Tacos | alt=Disney Springs | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Superstar Catering | alt=Hollywood Studios | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specializing in meatballs in a variety of presentations. }} * {{eat | name=World Showcase of Flavors | alt=Epcot | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Select fan-favorites from the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival will now be available year-round, including lobster rolls and pierogies. }} ===Snacks and sweets=== There are several food locations at Disney Springs that don't really qualify as restaurants, but a couple are of particular note: * {{eat | name=The Ganachery | alt= | url=https://www.disneysprings.com/dining/the-ganachery/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37098 | long=-81.51824 | directions=The Landing | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Opens 15 Dec 2015 | price= | lastedit=2015-11-30 | content=Chocolatiers will personally welcome you to this new shop, introducing you to the intricate possibilities of fine chocolate ganache. The subtle flavor variations of expertly crafted chocolate can rival those of wine in their complexity and opportunity for new discoveries, and The Ganachery aims to demonstrate that. You can even watch the chocolatiers at work, as nearly everything in the store is crafted on-site. }} * {{eat | name=Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop and Soda Fountain | alt= | url=https://www.ghirardelli.com/stores/orlando-disney-springs | email= | address= | lat=28.37178 | long=-81.51475 | directions=Marketplace | phone=+1 407 934-8855 | tollfree= | hours= | price=$3–30 | content=Enjoy chocolates, ice cream, and other great desserts at this San Francisco legend. Ghirardelli is the first name in chocolate for good reason. }} * {{eat | name=Starbucks | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.3704 | long=-81.51978 | directions=West Side | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM-midnight | price= | content=Sure, you've been to Starbucks; you know what it's got. But this one's probably not like any other one you've seen. For starters, they serve up the "Starbucks Evenings" menu, which includes beer, wine, and small-plate appetizers. This is also a "Starbucks Reserve" location, one of their select shops that offers exotic brewed-to-order beans from a specialty counter. But on top of all that, there's tons of seating indoor and out, living botanical murals, and an interactive 'chalkboard' that's directly connected to one at the Starbucks in [[Disneyland]]'s Downtown Disney district! (Note that there's another Starbucks at the Marketplace near World of Disney, but it's much smaller, has no seating, and just serves the regular Starbucks fare; it's open 8AM-midnight.) }} * {{eat | name=Vivoli Il Gelato | alt= | url=https://vivoli.it/en/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37149 | long=-81.51787 | directions=The Landing | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 10AM-midnight | price=Gelato and sorbetto $5-7, sundaes and shakes $10-11 | lastedit=2018-07-31 | content=The word "authentic" is thrown around a bit too often these days, especially at Disney, but this Italian establishment comes by it honestly; Vivoli is the oldest gelateria in [[Florence]]. Gelato is ice cream made in a traditional Italian style, and Vivoli has 24 flavors of it ready for scooping. The recipes and some of the more important ingredients are imported from Italy; other ingredients are locally sourced where possible. In addition to the divine gelati, Vivoli serves up sorbets, biscotti, and coffees. }} ===Resort dining=== All restaurants at Disney resorts accept the Dining Plan. ====Disney's Port Orleans Resort==== Port Orleans Riverside and Port Orleans French Quarter used to be two separate resorts, so they each have their own food courts for quick counter-service dining. They share a table-service location, though: * {{eat | name=Boatwright's Dining Hall | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/dining/port-orleans-resort-riverside/boatwright-dining-hall/ | email= | address= | lat=28.38647 | long=-81.53683 | directions=near the Riverside main lobby | phone= | tollfree= | hours=5-10PM | price=$18-27 | content=This may be the largest restaurant on the property, serving Southern fare such as ribs, chicken, steaks, etc. Great for families or groups of adults, as the large restaurant is big enough to absorb a lot of noise. }} ====Disney's Old Key West Resort==== '''Goods To Go'''{{index|Goods To Go}} is your standard basic counter-service location with burgers and chicken nuggets and not a whole lot else. For more substantial fare: * {{eat | name=Olivia's Cafe | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/dining/old-key-west-resort/olivia-cafe/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37511 | long=-81.53327 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7:30AM-10PM | price=$17-28 | content=Strongly meat-based entrees with substantial Caribbean accents. }} ====Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort==== '''Artist's Palette''' serves hot sandwiches, salads, and flatbreads from a counter. For table-service: * {{eat | name=Turf Club Bar and Grill | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/dining/saratoga-springs-resort-and-spa/turf-club-bar-and-grill/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37601 | long=-81.52277 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=through Sep 29: noon-9PM; starting Sep 30: 5-10PM | price=$12-29 | content=American fare with a sophisticated twist. Reportedly has good views of the Buena Vista golf course. }} ===Typhoon Lagoon=== * {{eat | name=Leaning Palms | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/dining/typhoon-lagoon/leaning-palms/ | email= | address= | lat=28.36492 | long=-81.52866 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Park open-park close | price=$6-8 | content=This is the main eatery at Typhoon Lagoon, and the only one open during the slowest parts of the year. It's also the only one with indoor seating. Burgers, pizza, chicken, and tuna. }} * {{eat | name=Typhoon Tilly's | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/dining/typhoon-lagoon/typhoon-tilly/ | email= | address= | lat=28.36691 | long=-81.5296 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open seasonally, park open-park close | price=$6-9 | content=This is the secondary meal location, located near the Shark Reef. BBQ pork, hot dogs, even PB&J if you want it. Outdoor seating. }} ==Drink== [[Image:Downtown Disney - Raglan Road Irish Pub - retouched.jpg|thumb|250px|Find the luck of the Irish&mdash;and the Guinness of the Irish&mdash;at Raglan Road at The Landing.]] Several years ago, this section would have been chock full of unique late-night venues, with comedy, music both modern and classic, and even (briefly) rollerskating. Now, the nightclubs are gone (though you can find a couple over at [[Walt Disney World/Epcot#Disney's BoardWalk 4|Disney's BoardWalk]]: '''Jellyrolls''' and '''Atlantic Dance Hall'''{{index|Atlantic Dance Hall}}), but you still have some options if you're looking for nightlife. * {{drink | name=Dockside Margaritas | alt= | url=https://www.disneysprings.com/dining/dockside-margaritas/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37213 | long=-81.51491 | directions=Marketplace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-04-21 | content=A mid-century Floridian fruit stand is the setting for Disney Springs' first standalone bar. Unique Flordia-themed margaritas are the specialty, and Floridian craft beers are on tap. Live waterfront entertainment daily, in the afternoon and evening until 10:30PM. }} * {{drink | name=Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar | alt= | url=https://www.disneysprings.com/dining/jock-lindseys-hangar-bar/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37145 | long=-81.51837 | directions=The Landing | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 11:30AM-midnight; F Sa 11:30AM-1AM | price= | lastedit=2015-09-30 | content=Okay, send your memories back, way back, to the opening scenes of ''Raiders of the Lost Ark'', the first '''Indiana Jones''' film. The intrepid pilot who rescues Indy from the Peruvian natives in the prologue was Jock Lindsey (and his snake Reggie). It seems that at some point, while Indy and Jock were searching for the Fountain of Youth, they stumbled across Disney Springs. The setting appealed to Jock, who bought some waterfront property and opened up a seaplane touring service in Disney Springs, later converting his hangar to a casual lounge. You'll find lots of drinks and bar food named after some iconic elements from the films, as well as decor representing Jock and Indy's adventures around the world. }}{{index|Jones, Indiana}}{{index|Lindsey, Jock}}{{index|Raiders of the Lost Ark}} * {{drink | name=MacGuffins Bar and Lounge | alt= | url=https://www.amctheatres.com/food-and-drink/macguffins | email= | address= | lat=40.90537 | long=-74.02974 | directions=inside the AMC multiplex | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Meals $9-12 | content=Hang out with friends before the show, or grab an after-movie cocktail in AMC's full-service bar. In addition to the drinks both hard and soft, the full "Fork & Screen" menu is available as well, with burgers, pizza, and other casual-restaurant staples. }}{{index|cigar bar}} Keep in mind that many of Disney Springs' restaurants have full bars, letting you belly up for a drink without waiting for a table. Chief among them is '''Raglan Road''', The Landing's Irish pub. Between pints of Guinness, you may catch some live music on selected nights. On the other hand, if you're really in the mood to rock the night away, head over to the '''House of Blues'''{{index|House of Blues}} on the West Side. They've got live music every night, though you'll have to pay extra to catch the best shows in their main hall. And if all you want to do is get your groove on, your best bet is '''Bongos Cuban Cafe'''{{index|Bongos Cuban Cafe}}; the music is deejayed but the dance floor is ready and waiting. Of course, don't forget '''Splitsville''''s bowling lanes and the '''AMC Disney Springs 24'''{{index|AMC Disney Springs 24}} movie theater, both of which keep guests entertained well into the night. ===Resorts=== The resorts all have '''pool bars''' available with a small selection of refreshments. In addition: * {{drink | name=The Gurgling Suitcase | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/dining/old-key-west-resort/gurgling-suitcase-libations-and-spirits/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37507 | long=-81.53351 | directions=Old Key West | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11:30AM-midnight daily | price= | content=A small but serviceable bar with the most bizarre name on property. }} * {{drink | name=River Roost Lounge | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/dining/port-orleans-resort-riverside/river-roost/ | email= | address= | lat=28.38669 | long=-81.53676 | directions=Port Orleans-Riverside | phone= | tollfree= | hours=4PM-midnight daily | price= | content=The lounge at Port Orleans-Riverside has a full bar and offers specialty drinks and a few snacks and appetizers (until 10PM). Sing along with pianist "Ye Haa" Bob Jackson from 8:30PM-close, W-Sa. }}{{index|"Ye Haa" Bob Jackson}}{{index|Jackson, "Ye Haa" Bob}} * {{drink | name=Scat Cat's Club | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/dining/port-orleans-resort-french-quarter/scat-cats-club/ | email= | address= | lat=28.38052 | long=-81.53688 | directions=Port Orleans-French Quarter | phone= | tollfree= | hours=4PM-midnight daily | price= | content=Scat Cat, featured in the animated classic ''The Aristocats'', must have moved to New Orleans after the events of the film, since this lounge in the French Quarter resort is named for him. Their specialty is any drink served in a hurricane glass, an innovation developed in the real New Orleans. }} * {{drink | name=The Turf Club Bar | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/dining/saratoga-springs-resort-and-spa/turf-club-bar-and-grill/ | email= | address= | lat=28.37601 | long=-81.52276 | directions=Saratoga Springs | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Adjacent to the Turf Club Grill, this lounge takes you back to a time when horse racing was the domain of the well-to-do, with leather seating and billiards tables. }} ==Sleep== [[Image:Disney World - Treehouse Villas - by ckramer.jpg|thumb|250px|One of the Treehouse Villas at Saratoga Springs.]] {{sleeppricerange|$0-$150|$150-$250|$250+}} There is a full range of hotel options near Disney Springs, unless you're looking for a Disney Value Resort like Pop Century. The low-end options in this area are non-Disney hotels with none of the theming or amenities provided to Disney resort guests. The Moderate and Deluxe resorts, however, are Disney through-and-through, and possibly the most scenic and most tranquil resorts on the entire property. The price you pay for tranquility, however, is remoteness; with the exception of Disney Springs itself, the parks are all a fair distance away by bus or car, with no monorail or boat transportation available. If this doesn't trouble you, however, it's hard to go wrong with any of these resorts. ===Budget=== The '''[http://www.disneyspringshotels.com/ Disney Springs Hotel Plaza]'''{{index|Downtown Disney Hotel Plaza}}{{index|Hotel Plaza, Downtown Disney}}, adjacent to the Marketplace, is made up of seven chain hotels. These are fairly generic hotels that lack most, if not all, of the theming and amenities of their Disney-owned counterparts. They are, however, ideal for guests who are on a tight budget or who prefer a more traditional hotel experience. The Best Western, Buena Vista Palace, Doubletree, Hilton, and Wyndham have car rental kiosks in their lobbies. * {{sleep | name=Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort | alt= | url=http://www.lakebuenavistaresorthotel.com/ | email= | address=2000 Hotel Plaza Blvd | lat=28.3783 | long=-81.5087 | directions= | phone=+1 407 828-2424 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$86–150 | wikipedia=Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel | wikidata=Q2417065 | content=A tall hotel, but other than that, it's your average Best Western. }} * {{sleep | name=B Resort and Spa | alt=formerly Royal Plaza Hotel | url=http://www.bresortlbv.com/ | email=info@bresortlbv.com | address=1905 Hotel Plaza Blvd | lat=28.376808 | long=-81.506985 | directions= | phone=+1 407 828-2828 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$90–170 | wikipedia=B Resort & Spa | wikidata=Q7374724 | content=After extensive renovations, the former Royal Plaza is now part of the B Resorts chain. It features a 3,000-sq-ft saltwater pool, a spa, and a BBQ restaurant. Some rooms have bunk beds for kids; some suites available. }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace | alt= | url=http://www.buenavistapalace.com | email= | address=1900 Buena Vista Dr | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407-827-2727 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$104–260 | wikidata=Q4985460 | lastedit=2022-01-14 | content=The closest of the seven to Disney Springs. }} * {{sleep | name=Doubletree Suites | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/mcofhdt-doubletree-suites-orlando/ | email= | address=2305 Hotel Plaza Blvd | lat=28.379142 | long=-81.506292 | directions= | phone=+1 407 934-1000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$100–354 (2-room suite) | wikidata=Q2689961 | content=The only all-suite hotel of the seven, also the closest to the exit; you can just walk from here to the off-property shops and restaurants nearby. }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Resort | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/orldwhh-hilton-orlando-lake-buena-vista/ | email= | address=1751 Hotel Plaza Blvd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407 827-4000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$140–240 | wikipedia=Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista | image=Hilton Night 11 x 14 High Res cropped.jpg | wikidata=Q2667158 | content=The second closest, just across from the Buena Vista Palace. }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn | alt= | url=http://www.hiorlando.com/ | email= | address=1805 Hotel Plaza Blvd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 407 828-8888 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$93–160 | wikipedia=Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista Downtown | wikidata=Q3266490 | content=Also tall just like the Best Western, but again, it's your average Holiday Inn. }} * {{sleep | name=Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort | alt=Regal Sun Resort | url=http://www.wyndhamlakebuenavista.com | email= | address=1850 Hotel Plaza Blvd | lat=28.375 | long=-81.5119 | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-624-4109 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$100–270 | wikipedia=Wyndham Lake Buena Vista | wikidata=Q2049010 | content=Great resort, offers Disney character breakfast. }} ===Mid-range=== A pair of "Moderate" resorts lie at the northern end of the Sassagoula River (with boat access to Disney Springs). Between the two of them, they cover all of the iconic aspects of Southern living, from the Mississippi bayou, to massive plantation mansions, to the lively French Quarter of New Orleans. Rooms at these resorts are smallish but adequate, with basic amenities and exterior entrances. * {{sleep | name=Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside | alt= | url=https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/port-orleans-resort-riverside | email= | address=1251 Riverside Dr | lat=28.3874 | long=-81.5362 | directions=adjacent to Port Orleans-French Quarter | phone=+1 407 934-6000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$150–250 | wikidata=Q3030336 | content=Experience the gentle feel of the mansions and towns along the lower Mississippi River. Opened as '''Dixie Landings''', Port Orleans Riverside has two distinct sets of buildings: '''Alligator Bayou''' features rustic cottage-like buildings with lots of water and reeds surrounding them, and '''Magnolia Bend''' is the home of stately southern mansions on neatly-manicured grounds. '''Ol' Man Island''' is a pool and fishing area themed as a sort of "swimmin' hole". The food court, Riverside Mill, is spacious, as is Boatwright's Dining Hall, the only table-service restaurant in the Port Orleans area. Outstanding theming here for the price, very laid-back and relaxing. The whole resort is heavily wooded, so it really feels isolated from the general bustle of Walt Disney World. As of March 2012, some rooms have been converted to '''Royal Guest Rooms''', each themed in the style of ''Beauty and the Beast'', ''Aladdin'', or ''The Princess and the Frog''. }}{{index|Port Orleans-Riverside}}{{index|Ol' Man Island}}{{index|Royal Guest Rooms}}{{index|Beauty and the Beast}}{{index|Aladdin}}{{index|The Princess and the Frog}} * {{sleep | name=Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter | alt= | url=https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/port-orleans-resort-french-quarter | email= | address=2201 Orleans Dr | lat=28.3805 | long=-81.5364 | directions=off Epcot Center Drive | phone=+1 407 934-5000 | tollfree= | fax=+1 407 934-5353 | checkin= | checkout= | price=$150–250 | image=POFQ Resort Building 1.jpg | wikidata=Q3030334 | content=Take a walk down Bourbon Street. Visually much livelier than Riverside, this resort once had the Port Orleans name all to itself, but it became the French Quarter when Dixie Landings was renamed. French Quarter is smaller and more intimate than its sister resort, and you'll need to walk to Boatwright's to have a table-service meal, but it's closer to Disney Springs so it's a shorter trip on the ferry. Keep an ear out while wandering the French Quarter; you might hear a live Dixieland band on selected days. }}{{index|Port Orleans-French Quarter}} ===Splurge=== The Deluxe resorts near Disney Springs are both dedicated Disney Vacation Club resorts, which means there are no basic hotel rooms. The smallest villas are studios, which have a kitchenette but no separate living room. It also means that DVC members get first crack at the entirety of both resorts, but they're both so large, especially Saratoga Springs, that you shouldn't have any problem getting a room. At both resorts, you'll find a full array of amenities and recreation, including boating, tennis, basketball, playgrounds, and of course swimming pools. There are also special activities that vary each day; you'll get a full schedule at check-in. Both resorts also have general stores for stocking their villas' kitchens; prices are high and selection is poor, but they're awfully convenient. * {{sleep | name=Disney's Old Key West Resort | alt= | url=https://www.disneyworld.eu/resorts/old-key-west-resort/ | email= | address=1510 North Cove Rd | lat=28.3736 | long=-81.5341 | directions= | phone=+1 407 827-7700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$295–425 (studios) | wikipedia=Disney's Old Key West Resort | image=Old key west panoramic.jpg | wikidata=Q3030332 | content=The spirit of the [[Florida Keys]] embodied in a Deluxe resort. The villas here have a contemporary, airy beach house feel, with scenic views of the woods, the river, or the golf course&mdash;or all three. Probably the least popular of the DVC resorts, but sometimes it's the only one left with villas available during peak times. That's not to say it's not worth booking a room here, just that it lacks some of the panache of the other Deluxe Villa resorts. }}{{index|Old Key West}} * {{sleep | name=Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa | alt= | url=https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/saratoga-springs-resort-and-spa/ | email= | address=1960 Broadway | lat=28.3767 | long=-81.5202 | directions= | phone=+1 407 827-1100 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$295–425 (studios) | wikipedia=Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa | image=Congress Park, Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa.jpg | wikidata=Q3030345 | content=A lush country retreat capturing the heyday of Upstate [[New York (state)|New York]] and the [[Saratoga Springs|Saratoga Race Course]]. This sprawling resort with a horse-racing theme is often overlooked but offers a wide range of views and amenities. You can get a room just steps from Disney Springs, or one that looks across Village Lake at the bright lights there. If you prefer more peace and quiet, go for a room along the Sassagoula River or adjacent to the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course. Either way, you'll be within walking distance of the relaxing and rejuvenating services at '''Senses''', Saratoga Springs' day spa. }}{{index|Saratoga Springs}}{{index|Spa at Disney's Saratoga Springs}} ** {{sleep | name=The Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=28.37631 | long=-81.52785 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$545–900 (up to 9 people per villa) | content=These treehouses&mdash;octagonal cabins on stilts&mdash;deviate from the normal villa layouts, sleeping nine in 1,074 square feet (100&nbsp;sq&nbsp;m) of space. The unique setting and rustic atmosphere, along with the novelty of the elevated treehouses, mean you'll have to get lucky, or know a DVC member, to get a reservation. }} {{IsPartOf|Walt Disney World}} {{stardistrict}} {{geo|28.371|-81.518}} {{hasDocent|LtPowers}} af87h9vtam50my1hb3lsa38n3p396tm 0 38415 5090843 4654029 2025-07-10T13:51:46Z Wrightcyber 2329224 Wrote full “Get around” section including major roads, exits, and local hotspots. 5090843 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat= | long= | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} g52bsvc8uswgwfhnjqt5nfhu02yq61f 5090850 5090843 2025-07-10T13:58:10Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* See */ Added listing for The Temple of Tolerance - Added popular tourist attraction 5090850 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat= | long= | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} fgt11uc6sf6oh79jazqj4j5qjq9hmas 5090854 5090850 2025-07-10T14:01:31Z Wrightcyber 2329224 Fixed lat and long for Temple of Tolerance 5090854 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat= | long= | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} b0ddavoc2iav1vttnzgift92xbwzla1 5090857 5090854 2025-07-10T14:10:46Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Sleep */ Added listing for Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta - Adding Hotel listing 5090857 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat= | long= | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} hkfbuuxiba2h1urypu2xev4ssa0gxbe 5090858 5090857 2025-07-10T14:12:19Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Sleep */ Added listing for Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta - Adding Hotel listing 5090858 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat= | long= | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} 81uyj8w5fp3jtgrq8aid7jkqchzmo19 5090865 5090858 2025-07-10T14:32:03Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Do */ Fixed numbered bullet points 5090865 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat= | long= | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} aezgr5xyi3wxv2rx3wchorstmcv0xba 5090870 5090865 2025-07-10T14:39:02Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Eat */ Fixed lat/long for numbered bullet points 5090870 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat= | long= | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} bnv6998myj45wdoamgt4w3nzl555dge 5090873 5090870 2025-07-10T14:43:16Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Drink */ Fixed lat/long 5090873 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat= | long= | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} 2s7iot2diyevtmganz7bfkkmpdwlgvt 5090876 5090873 2025-07-10T14:46:39Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Sleep */ Fixed lat/long 5090876 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} 5nv8ra6tkq3qelyimy15blz96rnto95 5090878 5090876 2025-07-10T14:48:35Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Go next */ Fixed the 'type' for the go next section. It had sleep listed as type which is inaccurate. 5090878 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} 380q0e59tw0bll7wy3cq7lej4rduz8d 5090880 5090878 2025-07-10T14:50:33Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Drink */ Added listing for Winans Coffee & Chocolate - Added a drink option 5090880 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} 7c3jlyely5diihxzr6evp6iyvubli9o 5090881 5090880 2025-07-10T14:51:17Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Drink */ Forgot lat and long 5090881 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} 1bm8lawxgswbxb2vmk2cfo5uspci8vp 5090882 5090881 2025-07-10T14:53:05Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Drink */ Added listing for Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe 5090882 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} qakklq0nrtvhnlfa6jw8eix8gi7xuuh 5090887 5090882 2025-07-10T14:54:47Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Drink */ Added listing for Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA - Added Drink option 5090887 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} eucmd0usp7npunu8k0c7c11siqop3i3 5090888 5090887 2025-07-10T14:55:22Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Drink */ Fixed phone number for Coffe Amor 5090888 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} p0r49hg0gvccqta0jyri9a05euyej1g 5090889 5090888 2025-07-10T14:57:12Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Eat */ Added listing for RJ's Coffey Cup - Added restaurant 5090889 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} l0hzm96dbdu2nthldv93x7omxvp80v6 5090896 5090889 2025-07-10T14:59:06Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Eat */ Added listing for Al’s Woody’s Diner - Added restaurant 5090896 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.5675 | long=-84.1975 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} 2xlcja7rhlljv769rh0fmrzdg8yslf3 5090898 5090896 2025-07-10T15:00:52Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Eat */ Added listing for The Side Rail - Added restaurant 5090898 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.5675 | long=-84.1975 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56776 | long=-84.1981 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} o7vme98zvomaqvbye1sf3wlkho7l01p 5090900 5090898 2025-07-10T15:02:39Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Eat */ Added listing for The Whaling Knife - Added restaurant 5090900 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.5675 | long=-84.1975 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56776 | long=-84.1981 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.56741 | long=-84.19741 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} mno1ytcxng1amj21hkfd6y5mwdvdtgt 5090901 5090900 2025-07-10T15:04:59Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Do */ Added listing for Escape Wapak - Added entertainment company for to-do 5090901 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.56966 | long=-84.19235 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf area, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.5675 | long=-84.1975 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56776 | long=-84.1981 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.56741 | long=-84.19741 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} inwds80fu8jbl5061wnvusmdo3iviv2 5090902 5090901 2025-07-10T15:05:26Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Do */ Updated listing for Escape Wapak - Fixed typo 5090902 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.56966 | long=-84.19235 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.5675 | long=-84.1975 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56776 | long=-84.1981 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.56741 | long=-84.19741 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} nk93ed019zth7hg1qt9ptj9449ofpgn 5090903 5090902 2025-07-10T15:07:03Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Eat */ Added listing for El Azteca - Added restaurant 5090903 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.56966 | long=-84.19235 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.5675 | long=-84.1975 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56776 | long=-84.1981 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.56741 | long=-84.19741 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56144 | long=-84.16446 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} 77a7muu4n9ehocmxxv3y648qaytu0vk 5090904 5090903 2025-07-10T15:08:25Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Eat */ Added listing for La Neta Mexican Grill - Added restaurant 5090904 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.56966 | long=-84.19235 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.5675 | long=-84.1975 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56776 | long=-84.1981 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.56741 | long=-84.19741 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56144 | long=-84.16446 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56163 | long=-84.16646 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} 2f9s9wo3o0iqhq60vb4debbet0styep 5090905 5090904 2025-07-10T15:11:49Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Do */ Updated listing for Auglaize County Fair - Mistyped coords 5090905 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.49361 | long = -84.29806 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.56966 | long=-84.19235 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.5675 | long=-84.1975 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56776 | long=-84.1981 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.56741 | long=-84.19741 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56144 | long=-84.16446 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56163 | long=-84.16646 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} ssucqzd70usndvusye893ypap6dreiz 5090909 5090905 2025-07-10T15:18:19Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* By Plane */ Fixed lat/long 5090909 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport located in neighboring New Knoxville, OH. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.56966 | long=-84.19235 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.5675 | long=-84.1975 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56776 | long=-84.1981 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.56741 | long=-84.19741 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56144 | long=-84.16446 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56163 | long=-84.16646 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=Close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=GMB_Performance_RRI822 | email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview?CID=LC:yytq4fvvehxh7se:03934&iata=00093796 | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} ragwuwgbvi1mcgot1h86lsvo20awik9 5090910 5090909 2025-07-10T15:18:20Z Ibaman 195012 unneeded 5090910 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.5661 | long=-84.1933 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.56966 | long=-84.19235 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.5675 | long=-84.1975 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56776 | long=-84.1981 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.56741 | long=-84.19741 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56144 | long=-84.16446 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56163 | long=-84.16646 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} c4awsxu32xpia0bhh2d05663dcf1cwf 5090912 5090910 2025-07-10T15:19:22Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* See */ Fixed lat/long issues 5090912 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.56879996974746 | long=-84.18393894644358 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.56966 | long=-84.19235 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.5675 | long=-84.1975 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56776 | long=-84.1981 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.56741 | long=-84.19741 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56144 | long=-84.16446 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56163 | long=-84.16646 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} bbelhqckrehehjk3d5itmsge9z6y9n8 5090913 5090912 2025-07-10T15:20:25Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Do */ Fixed lat/long issues 5090913 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.56879996974746 | long=-84.18393894644358 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.58206728556287 | long=-84.20387476178568 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.56877 | long=-84.19378 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.5675 | long=-84.1975 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56776 | long=-84.1981 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.56741 | long=-84.19741 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56144 | long=-84.16446 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56163 | long=-84.16646 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} irlyzbfi1d5x0uia9cxr7wxnm10h6qd 5090918 5090913 2025-07-10T15:24:25Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Eat */ Fixed a bunch of lat/long errors 5090918 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.56879996974746 | long=-84.18393894644358 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.58206728556287 | long=-84.20387476178568 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.56744 | long=-84.19888 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.56248 | long=-84.16894 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.58138969376215 | long=-84.20527646178573 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.57116471568393 | long=-84.18391607342916 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57099991048103 | long=-84.1933142616584 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.57000221827676 | long=-84.19412010411492 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56308682560336 | long=-84.17519987527957 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56573092169471 | long=-84.17711430411512 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} 2syctuazu693mm1a5m64trrxk2eiqe0 5090920 5090918 2025-07-10T15:26:20Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Eat */ Continued lat/long error fixes 5090920 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.56879996974746 | long=-84.18393894644358 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.58206728556287 | long=-84.20387476178568 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570492022350095 | long=-84.19437263295062 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.569862971421685 | long=-84.1959582752792 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.58138969376215 | long=-84.20527646178573 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.57116471568393 | long=-84.18391607342916 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57099991048103 | long=-84.1933142616584 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.57000221827676 | long=-84.19412010411492 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56308682560336 | long=-84.17519987527957 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56573092169471 | long=-84.17711430411512 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.56858 | long=-84.16573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73926 | long=-84.10673 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.56073 | long=-84.15887 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56861 | long=-84.16517 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} estp1bxal6p7ru7ygv5jhi52zsst7h3 5090923 5090920 2025-07-10T15:29:25Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Sleep */ Major lat/long error fixes 5090923 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.56879996974746 | long=-84.18393894644358 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.58206728556287 | long=-84.20387476178568 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570492022350095 | long=-84.19437263295062 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.569862971421685 | long=-84.1959582752792 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.58138969376215 | long=-84.20527646178573 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.57116471568393 | long=-84.18391607342916 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57099991048103 | long=-84.1933142616584 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.57000221827676 | long=-84.19412010411492 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56308682560336 | long=-84.17519987527957 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56573092169471 | long=-84.17711430411512 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=The Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.56766 | long=-84.19828 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.56783 | long=-84.19653 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.56946 | long=-84.19618 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.559741691928465 | long=-84.17177435014405 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73949681677848 | long=-84.10641354828422 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.55904730459353 | long=-84.16815838877267 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56001628823399 | long=-84.17275526178689 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} c0t3miho2pvyui61wc54h4a3luquiuv 5090926 5090923 2025-07-10T15:33:17Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Drink */ Lat/long fixes 5090926 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.56879996974746 | long=-84.18393894644358 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.58206728556287 | long=-84.20387476178568 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570492022350095 | long=-84.19437263295062 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.569862971421685 | long=-84.1959582752792 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.58138969376215 | long=-84.20527646178573 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.57116471568393 | long=-84.18391607342916 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57099991048103 | long=-84.1933142616584 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.57000221827676 | long=-84.19412010411492 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56308682560336 | long=-84.17519987527957 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56573092169471 | long=-84.17711430411512 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57051116897058 | long=-84.1935882041149 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57067427208392 | long=-84.19336740411494 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.571045609545095 | long=-84.18844590110608 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.58335676296877 | long=-84.20506433565448 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.559741691928465 | long=-84.17177435014405 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73949681677848 | long=-84.10641354828422 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.55904730459353 | long=-84.16815838877267 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56001628823399 | long=-84.17275526178689 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} b6ot7orp8cn5wig0opo17b0q9t4fb3i 5090932 5090926 2025-07-10T15:52:47Z Wrightcyber 2329224 Added listing for Casa Chic - Added store for 'buy' section 5090932 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.56879996974746 | long=-84.18393894644358 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.58206728556287 | long=-84.20387476178568 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Casa Chic | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/casachicwapak/?_rdr | email= | address=109 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570502 | long=-84.195195 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2298 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Boutique-style gift shop offering home décor, jewelry, and seasonal items. A popular downtown stop for locals and visitors alike. }} ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570492022350095 | long=-84.19437263295062 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.569862971421685 | long=-84.1959582752792 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.58138969376215 | long=-84.20527646178573 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.57116471568393 | long=-84.18391607342916 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57099991048103 | long=-84.1933142616584 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.57000221827676 | long=-84.19412010411492 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56308682560336 | long=-84.17519987527957 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56573092169471 | long=-84.17711430411512 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57051116897058 | long=-84.1935882041149 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57067427208392 | long=-84.19336740411494 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.571045609545095 | long=-84.18844590110608 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.58335676296877 | long=-84.20506433565448 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.559741691928465 | long=-84.17177435014405 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73949681677848 | long=-84.10641354828422 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.55904730459353 | long=-84.16815838877267 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56001628823399 | long=-84.17275526178689 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} r8c2kga70gt4jud42yb5wwx91qhelzw 5090933 5090932 2025-07-10T15:54:53Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Buy */ Added listing for Auglaize Antique Mall - Added store for 'buy' section 5090933 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.56879996974746 | long=-84.18393894644358 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.58206728556287 | long=-84.20387476178568 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Casa Chic | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/casachicwapak/?_rdr | email= | address=109 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570502 | long=-84.195195 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2298 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Boutique-style gift shop offering home décor, jewelry, and seasonal items. A popular downtown stop for locals and visitors alike. }} * {{buy | name=Auglaize Antique Mall | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Auglaize-Antique-Mall/100057487148864/# | email= | address=116 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570738 | long=-84.195328 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8004 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A large antique store located just off downtown Wapakoneta. Features multiple vendor booths with vintage furniture, collectibles, memorabilia, and home décor. A great stop for treasure hunters and nostalgia lovers. }} ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570492022350095 | long=-84.19437263295062 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.569862971421685 | long=-84.1959582752792 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.58138969376215 | long=-84.20527646178573 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.57116471568393 | long=-84.18391607342916 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57099991048103 | long=-84.1933142616584 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.57000221827676 | long=-84.19412010411492 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56308682560336 | long=-84.17519987527957 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56573092169471 | long=-84.17711430411512 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57051116897058 | long=-84.1935882041149 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57067427208392 | long=-84.19336740411494 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.571045609545095 | long=-84.18844590110608 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.58335676296877 | long=-84.20506433565448 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.559741691928465 | long=-84.17177435014405 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73949681677848 | long=-84.10641354828422 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.55904730459353 | long=-84.16815838877267 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56001628823399 | long=-84.17275526178689 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} jke8k39y8omj6puzo3oxrth84qyhhwq 5090934 5090933 2025-07-10T15:56:41Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Buy */ Added listing for Relics - Added store for 'buy' section 5090934 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.56879996974746 | long=-84.18393894644358 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.58206728556287 | long=-84.20387476178568 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Casa Chic | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/casachicwapak/?_rdr | email= | address=109 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570502 | long=-84.195195 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2298 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Boutique-style gift shop offering home décor, jewelry, and seasonal items. A popular downtown stop for locals and visitors alike. }} * {{buy | name=Auglaize Antique Mall | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Auglaize-Antique-Mall/100057487148864/# | email= | address=116 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570738 | long=-84.195328 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8004 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A large antique store located just off downtown Wapakoneta. Features multiple vendor booths with vintage furniture, collectibles, memorabilia, and home décor. A great stop for treasure hunters and nostalgia lovers. }} * {{buy | name=Relics | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Relics/100057859651338/# | email= | address=114 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570762 | long=-84.195279 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 649-7588 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A shop specializing in handcrafted and vintage-style Wapakoneta and Ohio-themed apparel and goods. }} ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570492022350095 | long=-84.19437263295062 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.569862971421685 | long=-84.1959582752792 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.58138969376215 | long=-84.20527646178573 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.57116471568393 | long=-84.18391607342916 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57099991048103 | long=-84.1933142616584 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.57000221827676 | long=-84.19412010411492 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56308682560336 | long=-84.17519987527957 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56573092169471 | long=-84.17711430411512 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57051116897058 | long=-84.1935882041149 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57067427208392 | long=-84.19336740411494 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.571045609545095 | long=-84.18844590110608 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.58335676296877 | long=-84.20506433565448 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.559741691928465 | long=-84.17177435014405 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73949681677848 | long=-84.10641354828422 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.55904730459353 | long=-84.16815838877267 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56001628823399 | long=-84.17275526178689 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} 1xicie1j7kfb5g5ead2arltea3dr8th 5090936 5090934 2025-07-10T15:58:30Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Buy */ Added listing for Dad's Toy Shop - Added store for 'buy' section 5090936 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.56879996974746 | long=-84.18393894644358 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.58206728556287 | long=-84.20387476178568 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Casa Chic | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/casachicwapak/?_rdr | email= | address=109 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570502 | long=-84.195195 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2298 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Boutique-style gift shop offering home décor, jewelry, and seasonal items. A popular downtown stop for locals and visitors alike. }} * {{buy | name=Auglaize Antique Mall | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Auglaize-Antique-Mall/100057487148864/# | email= | address=116 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570738 | long=-84.195328 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8004 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A large antique store located just off downtown Wapakoneta. Features multiple vendor booths with vintage furniture, collectibles, memorabilia, and home décor. A great stop for treasure hunters and nostalgia lovers. }} * {{buy | name=Relics | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Relics/100057859651338/# | email= | address=114 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570762 | long=-84.195279 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 649-7588 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A shop specializing in handcrafted and vintage-style Wapakoneta and Ohio-themed apparel and goods. }} * {{buy | name=Dad's Toy Shop | alt= | url=https://dadstoyshop.wilson1communications.com/ | email= | address=123 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570535 | long=-84.195736 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2007 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A classic hobby shop with RC cars, model trains, collectibles, and toys. Great for kids or nostalgic hobbyists. }} ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570492022350095 | long=-84.19437263295062 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.569862971421685 | long=-84.1959582752792 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.58138969376215 | long=-84.20527646178573 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.57116471568393 | long=-84.18391607342916 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57099991048103 | long=-84.1933142616584 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.57000221827676 | long=-84.19412010411492 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56308682560336 | long=-84.17519987527957 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56573092169471 | long=-84.17711430411512 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57051116897058 | long=-84.1935882041149 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57067427208392 | long=-84.19336740411494 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.571045609545095 | long=-84.18844590110608 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.58335676296877 | long=-84.20506433565448 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.559741691928465 | long=-84.17177435014405 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73949681677848 | long=-84.10641354828422 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.55904730459353 | long=-84.16815838877267 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56001628823399 | long=-84.17275526178689 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} armf73erfia1kj7537zjk7iabzc8b9q 5090941 5090936 2025-07-10T16:14:41Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* By Plane */ Added Lima Regional Airport as a local airport 5090941 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''[http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta]''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By Plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville as well as roughly 16.5 miles southeast from the Lima Allen County Regional Airport ({{IATA|AOH}}), 700 Airport Dr, Lima, OH 45804. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By Car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s '''major commercial and dining corridor''' along '''Bellefontaine Street''', about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as '''“Hamburger Road”''' due to the many fast food options such as '''McDonald’s''' and '''Burger King'''. It also includes local favorites like '''El Azteca''', '''La Neta Mexican Grill''', and '''Max’s Dairy Bar'''. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including '''Walmart''', '''Aldi''', '''Dollar Tree''', and '''Lowe’s'''. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, '''Interstate 75 (Exit 111)''' and '''U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B)''' intersect near the '''TA Truck Stop'''. Located just east of this district along '''South Wood Street''' is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along '''Defiance Street''' and '''Lincoln Avenue'''. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as '''Happy Daz''', '''RJ’s Coffey Cup''', '''Community Market''', and '''Dollar General'''. On the western end of the corridor is '''Grand View Plaza''', a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along '''West Auglaize Street''', about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on '''Dearbaugh Avenue''', which intersects Auglaize Street near the '''Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office'''. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May, and more. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419 738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419 629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone=+1 877 596 6111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory Tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 | lat=40.56879996974746 | long=-84.18393894644358 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.58206728556287 | long=-84.20387476178568 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Casa Chic | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/casachicwapak/?_rdr | email= | address=109 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570502 | long=-84.195195 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2298 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Boutique-style gift shop offering home décor, jewelry, and seasonal items. A popular downtown stop for locals and visitors alike. }} * {{buy | name=Auglaize Antique Mall | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Auglaize-Antique-Mall/100057487148864/# | email= | address=116 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570738 | long=-84.195328 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8004 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A large antique store located just off downtown Wapakoneta. Features multiple vendor booths with vintage furniture, collectibles, memorabilia, and home décor. A great stop for treasure hunters and nostalgia lovers. }} * {{buy | name=Relics | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Relics/100057859651338/# | email= | address=114 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570762 | long=-84.195279 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 649-7588 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A shop specializing in handcrafted and vintage-style Wapakoneta and Ohio-themed apparel and goods. }} * {{buy | name=Dad's Toy Shop | alt= | url=https://dadstoyshop.wilson1communications.com/ | email= | address=123 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570535 | long=-84.195736 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2007 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A classic hobby shop with RC cars, model trains, collectibles, and toys. Great for kids or nostalgic hobbyists. }} ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570492022350095 | long=-84.19437263295062 | directions= | phone=+1 419 674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.569862971421685 | long=-84.1959582752792 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.58138969376215 | long=-84.20527646178573 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.57116471568393 | long=-84.18391607342916 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57099991048103 | long=-84.1933142616584 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.57000221827676 | long=-84.19412010411492 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56308682560336 | long=-84.17519987527957 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56573092169471 | long=-84.17711430411512 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57051116897058 | long=-84.1935882041149 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57067427208392 | long=-84.19336740411494 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.571045609545095 | long=-84.18844590110608 | directions= | phone=+1 (567) 319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.58335676296877 | long=-84.20506433565448 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.559741691928465 | long=-84.17177435014405 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73949681677848 | long=-84.10641354828422 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419 228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.55904730459353 | long=-84.16815838877267 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56001628823399 | long=-84.17275526178689 | directions= | phone=+1 (419) 738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2:00pm | checkout=11:00am | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1-419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} ildndoh789ebkq2hbldwceypvu1h9nu 5090963 5090941 2025-07-10T16:51:15Z Ground Zero 1423298 If everything is in boldface, nothing is emphasised [[wv:emphasis]]. Phone numbers formatted for 10-digit dialing [[wv:phone]]. Other clean up 5090963 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wapakoneta-banner-01.jpg}} '''Wapakoneta''' is a city in [[Auglaize County]], [[Ohio]] noted as being the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. ==Understand == ===Local information === * [http://www.wapakoneta.net/ Wapakoneta] town website ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}}{{mapshape}} === By plane === * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport AXV | lat = 40.495568036846095 | long = -84.30178399765053 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219 | directions = {{mi|10}} southwest of the city center | phone = | tollfree = | email = | hours = | content = A [[General aviation]] airport. | price = | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Wapakoneta is about 10 miles northeast of the Neil Armstrong airport in neighboring New Knoxville as well as roughly 16.5 miles southeast from the Lima Allen County Regional Airport ({{IATA|AOH}}), 700 Airport Dr, Lima, OH 45804. Wapakoneta is also a 50-minute drive from the Dayton International Airport ({{IATA|DAY}}), a 1½-hour drive from John Glenn Columbus International Airport ({{IATA|CMH}}), and a 1½-hour drive from Toledo Express Airport ({{IATA|TOL}}). ===By car=== Wapakoneta lies on i-75 and US-33. Wapakoneta is accessible North and South by exits 111 and 113 on i-75 as well as being accessible East and West by exits 38B, 37, 36, and 35 on US-33. ==Get around== In the city center, the main hub is '''East Auglaize Street''', which runs east–west just south of the Auglaize River. This street passes through Wapakoneta's historic downtown district, home to many of the city’s small local businesses, including antique shops, eateries, a coffee shop, and more. Downtown also hosts key community events like the '''Wapakoneta Summer Moon Festival''' in early July and the '''Children’s Hometown Holiday''' celebration in December. To the southeast of town lies Wapakoneta’s major '''commercial and dining corridor''' along Bellefontaine Street, about one mile from downtown. Locals often refer to this area as “Hamburger Road” due to the many fast food options such as McDonald’s and Burger King. It also includes local favorites like El Azteca, La Neta Mexican Grill, and Max’s Dairy Bar. This district features the city’s primary shopping destinations, including Walmart, Aldi, Dollar Tree, and Lowe’s. At the eastern end of Bellefontaine Street, Interstate 75 (Exit 111) and U.S. Route 33 (Exit 38B) intersect near the TA Truck Stop. Located just east of this district along South Wood Street is one of Wapakoneta's most unique attractions: the '''Temple of Tolerance'''. To the north of downtown, a '''secondary commercial corridor''' runs along Defiance Street and Lincoln Avenue. This area features additional dining and shopping options such as Happy Daz, RJ’s Coffey Cup, Community Market, and Dollar General. On the western end of the corridor is Grand View Plaza, a small strip mall offering a variety of local services and stores. The '''Auglaize County Fairgrounds''' is located along West Auglaize Street, about 1.5 miles west of downtown. It has two entrances: one on Auglaize Street and another on Dearbaugh Avenue, which intersects Auglaize Street near the Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office. The fairgrounds host events throughout the year, including the '''Auglaize County Fair''' in mid to late August, the '''St. Joseph 4th of July Festival''', the '''Wapak Tug Fest''' in late May. ==See== [[File:Wapakoneta-ohio-downtown.jpg|thumb|Downtown Wapakoneta]] [[File:Neil_Armstrong_Air_and_Space_Museum_01.jpg|thumb|Armstrong Air and Space Museum]] [[File:Gemini VIII Capsule.jpg|thumb|Gemini VIII at the Museum]] {{quote|One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.|author=Neil Armstrong}} * {{listing | type=see | name=Armstrong Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=https://armstrongmuseum.org/ | email= | address=500 Apollo Dr | lat=40.5639 | long=-84.1711 | directions=just west of I-75 at exit 111 | phone=+1 419-738-8811 | tollfree= | fax=+1 419 738-3361 | hours=Hours: M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM, holidays noon-5PM, closed on Thanksgiving | price=Adult $8, child 6 - 12 $4, child 5 & under free; school groups $3 per student | wikipedia=Armstrong Air and Space Museum | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-armstrong-air-and-space-museum.jpg | wikidata=Q689196 | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content=Dedicated to Wapakoneta-native Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the [[Moon]]. }} * {{see | name=Bicycle Museum of America | alt= | url=http://www.bicyclemuseum.com/ | email= | address=7 W Monroe St, New Bremen | lat=40.4368 | long=-84.3803 | directions= | phone=+1 419-629-9249 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bicycle Museum of America | wikidata=Q4903758 | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content= }} * {{see | name=Airstream Factory | alt= | url=https://www.airstream.com/company/tours/ | email= | address=419 W Pike St, Jackson Center | lat=40.440496 | long= -84.045330 | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-877-596 6111 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-12 | content=Factory tour of the iconic luxury trailer makers, once a day during the week. }} * {{see | name=Auglaize County Courthouse | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.568333 | long=-84.194444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Auglaize County Courthouse | image=Wapakoneta-ohio-courthouse.jpg | wikidata=Q4820418 | lastedit=2018-11-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wapakoneta Historical Museum | alt= | url=http://www.auglaizecountyhistory.org/ | email= | address=206 W Main St | lat=40.56980 | long=-84.19676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=The Temple of Tolerance | alt=The Rock Garden | url=https://jimbowsher.com/the-temple-of-tolerance/ | email= | address=203 S Wood St | lat=40.56879996974746 | long=-84.18393894644358 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-4474 | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=The Temple of Tolerance, also known locally as The Rock Garden, is a unique backyard art installation located in Wapakoneta’s city center. Built by local historian Jim Bowsher, the site features an eclectic collection of massive stones, monuments, and historical artifacts, arranged in a sprawling garden that encourages exploration and reflection. It's free to visit and open to the public year-round, offering a peaceful yet thought-provoking experience tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Veterans Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.5612 | long=-84.1814 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-26 | content= }} * {{do | name=Auglaize County Fair | alt= | url=https://auglaizecountyfair.org/ | email= | address= | lat=40.5638 | long=-84.2132 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Summer Moon Festival | alt= | url=http://summermoonfestival.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.56803 | long=-84.19671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Early July | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Wapa Theater | alt=Brown Theater | url=http://wapatheatre.com/ | email= | address=15 Willipie St | lat=40.56977 | long=-84.19439 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-3718 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} * {{do | name=Escape Wapak | alt= | url=https://escapewapak.com/ | email= | address=1101 Lincoln Ave | lat=40.58206728556287 | long=-84.20387476178568 | directions= | phone=+1 419-549-1684 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Escape rooms, rage rooms, laser tag, nerf arena, paint rooms, and more. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Casa Chic | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/casachicwapak/?_rdr | email= | address=109 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570502 | long=-84.195195 | directions= | phone=+1 419 738-2298 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Boutique-style gift shop offering home décor, jewelry, and seasonal items. A popular downtown stop for locals and visitors alike. }} * {{buy | name=Auglaize Antique Mall | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Auglaize-Antique-Mall/100057487148864/# | email= | address=116 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570738 | long=-84.195328 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-8004 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A large antique store located just off downtown Wapakoneta. Features multiple vendor booths with vintage furniture, collectibles, memorabilia, and home décor. A great stop for treasure hunters and nostalgia lovers. }} * {{buy | name=Relics | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Relics/100057859651338/# | email= | address=114 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570762 | long=-84.195279 | directions= | phone=+1 419-649-7588 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A shop specializing in handcrafted and vintage-style Wapakoneta and Ohio-themed apparel and goods. }} * {{buy | name=Dad's Toy Shop | alt= | url=https://dadstoyshop.wilson1communications.com/ | email= | address=123 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570535 | long=-84.195736 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2007 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A classic hobby shop with RC cars, model trains, collectibles, and toys. Great for kids or nostalgic hobbyists. }} ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen and Drinks | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/woodfiredwapak/ | email= | address=7 W Auglaize St | lat=40.570492022350095 | long=-84.19437263295062 | directions= | phone=+1 419-674-2436 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=Excellent pizza, friendly staff, if a little slow service. Decor better than the pictures on the web site. }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=LaGrande Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=http://www.lagrandepizza.com/ | email= | address=16 S Blackhoof St | lat=40.569862971421685 | long=-84.1959582752792 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-6050 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=RJ's Coffey Cup | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/RJsCoffeyCup/ | email= | address=901 Defiance St | lat=40.58138969376215 | long=-84.20527646178573 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2191 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Al’s Woody’s Diner | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Als-Woodys/100064558035425/# | email= | address=9 N Wood St | lat=40.57116471568393 | long=-84.18391607342916 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-9111 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Side Rail | alt= | url=https://thesiderail.com/ | email= | address=17 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57099991048103 | long=-84.1933142616584 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-6593 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Whaling Knife | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Whaling-Knife/100087855004790/?mibextid=LQQJ4d | email= | address=11 Willipie St | lat=40.57000221827676 | long=-84.19412010411492 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-7888 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=El Azteca | alt= | url=https://elazteca.bestdinnerplaces.com/ | email= | address=1345 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56308682560336 | long=-84.17519987527957 | directions= | phone=+1 567-356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Neta Mexican Grill | alt= | url=https://www.lanetamexicangrill.com/ | email= | address=1262 Bellefontaine St | lat=40.56573092169471 | long=-84.17711430411512 | directions= | phone=+1 567-356-5226 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Alpha Cafe | alt= | url=https://alpha-cafe.biz/ | email= | address=7 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57051116897058 | long=-84.1935882041149 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2013 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-11-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Winans Coffee & Chocolate | alt= | url=https://winanschocolate.com/ | email= | address=24 E Auglaize St | lat=40.57067427208392 | long=-84.19336740411494 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-7946 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor Roastery & Cafe | alt= | url=https://coffeamor.com/ | email= | address=7 N Water St | lat=40.571045609545095 | long=-84.18844590110608 | directions= | phone=+1 567-319-9925 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Coffé Amor at Wapak YMCA | alt= | url=http://coffeamor.com | email= | address=1100 Defiance St | lat=40.58335676296877 | long=-84.20506433565448 | directions= | phone=+1 419-204-0174 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Best Western Wapakoneta Inn | alt= | url=https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-rooms.36156.html | email= | address=1008 Lunar Drive | lat=40.559741691928465 | long=-84.17177435014405 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} *{{listing | type=sleep | name=Wingate By Wyndham Lima | alt= | url=https://www.limawingate.com/ | email= | address=175 W Market St | lat=40.73949681677848 | long=-84.10641354828422 | directions=close to Lima Airport | phone=+1 419-228-7000 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Roof Inn & Suites Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.redroof.com/property/oh/wapakoneta/rri822| email= | address=1659 Bellefontaine St| lat=40.55904730459353 | long=-84.16815838877267 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2184 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Super 8 by Wyndham Wapakoneta | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/wapakoneta-ohio/super-8-wapakoneta/overview | email= | address=1011 Lunar Dr | lat=40.56001628823399 | long=-84.17275526178689 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-8810 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Auglaize County Public Library | alt= | url=https://www.auglaizelibraries.org/wapakoneta | email= | address=203 S Perry St | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=+1 419-738-2921 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Wapakoneta Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.56981 | long=-84.19373 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-09-27 | content= }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Toledo (Ohio)|Toledo]] | minorl1=[[Lima (Ohio)|Lima]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Dayton]] | minorr1=[[Sidney (Ohio)|Sidney]] | image2=US 33.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Fort Wayne]] | minorl2=Jct [[File:US 127.svg|18px]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Columbus]] | minorr2=[[Marysville (Ohio)|Marysville]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5667|-84.1833}} {{usablecity}} qajjlu6g7aluqytbywfo5wn9rk1pqr1 0 38816 5090824 4861201 2025-07-10T13:39:54Z 162 etc. 2252661 /* Get in */ 5090824 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''[https://www.wemindji.ca Wemindji]''' is a village of about 1400 people in [[Quebec]] on James Bay, which is the southern part of Hudson Bay. Wemindji is part of the Cree Aboriginal nation. The first language spoken in Wemindji is Cree. Due to the historical contact with Hudson's Bay Company, many Cree people speak English as a second language. ==Understand== ===History=== Wemindji is a fairly new community comprising Cree families who used to live at the Paakumshumwashtikw trading post (in Cree, in French it was known as Vieux-Comptoir River, or its English equivalent "Old Factory") This trading post was founded in the 17th century and was alternately under British or French control. In 1959 the community was relocated about 45 km north to its present location (where Wemindji is now). Wemindji (Cree for "red ochre mountain") gets its name from the red pigment found in the hills surrounding it. It has also been known in French as "Nouveau-Comptoir". The Cree Nation of Wemindji is one of the 9 communities under the [James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement] signed on 1975 by the Cree, Inuit, Quebec Government and Federal Government. The Crees got on a legal injunction to make an agreement on the project of hydro-electric development because the Quebec government and Hydro-Quebec failed to recognized the Cree rights to their land. In 1975, the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement between the Government of Canada and the indigenous people in Canada was the first leading agreement since the numbered treaties of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Under the agreement, the Aboriginal people traded their rights and territorial interests for different rights and benefits. The Aboriginal people were allowed to take charge in their local and regional government, the creation of their own health and school boards, measures for economic and community development, special regimes for police and justice and environmental protection. The agreement included limitations on water levels and a remedial works corporation for social, environmental damages, and relocation of the first dam. In the agreement, the land was divided into three categories. The first category of land is controlled mainly by the residents in and around the Aboriginal communities. The second category known as Crown Land is used as hunting, fishing, and trapping territories shared between the Cree and Inuit. Lastly, the third category of land is used for traditional hunting and harvesting which was designated exclusively for Aboriginal people to use. ===Culture and traditions=== Cree have always identified themselves as "Iyiyuuch" which means "the people". The Cree have continued practising their traditional way of hunting, trapping and fishing. Parts of Wemindji's populations still lives off the land year round. ==Get in== === By car=== Wemindji is accessible via the James Bay Road. The gravel access road to Wemindji is at kilometer 518 of the James Bay Road (518 km north of Matagami). Once on the gravel road, it is 96 km to Wemindji. There are no services until you reach the village of Wemindji. As of 2009, the gravel road is in good repair and is regularly graded. There are a few areas of washboard but not many. The road is passable by and is regularly used by passenger vehicles. Fuel is available 24 hours a day on the James Bay Road at Matagami, QC (km 0), at Relais Routier (km 381) and at Radisson (km 620). Fuel is also available in Wemindji at Sibi Gas Station and Hardware Store, however it may not be available 24 hours a day. The James Bay Road is very remote. Make sure your vehicle is in good repair. Be prepared to deal with black bear and insects, which are common throughout the northland. [http://www.jamesbayroad.com/jbr/jbrguide.html James Bay Road Guide] ===By bus=== * {{listing | name=Autobus Maheux | alt= | url=https://autobusmaheux.com/ | email=service_client@autobusmaheux.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-866-863-6066 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-05-01 | content=Service from [[Val-d'Or]] to Wemindji junction. The bus does not reach Wemindji itself, you'll need a ride to take you the rest of the way. }} ===By plane=== * {{listing | type=go | name=Wemindji Airport | alt={{IATA|YNC}} | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.010556 | long=-78.831111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3912872 | lastedit=2019-04-18 | content=Served by [https://www.aircreebec.ca Air Creebec] with connections to Montreal-Trudeau, Val-d'Or, Chibougamau, Chisasibi, Eastmain, Kuujjuarapik, Nemaska, and Waskaganish. }} ==Get around== Wemindji is a small community surrounded by a vast wilderness. It is on Paint Hills Bay about 5 km from the open water of James Bay, and is surrounded with many lakes, inlets, bays and islands. During the summer, canoes and motorboats are the most common way to access the surrounding area. During winter, snowmobiles are the usual means of transport. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent, and outboard motor powered freighter canoes with guide are available for longer excursions. Canoe and kayak launch sites are available. There is a trailer boat launch for light vessels available in Wemindji. There are many boating opportunities in the protected chain of lakes around Wemindji. Boaters are cautioned that conditions on James Bay may change rapidly, and that the open waters of James Bay must be navigated with offshore ocean skills. The maze of islands can be confusing, so a GPS navigation system is recommended. It is recommended to speak to locals about your boating plans so that if you go missing, they will know to look for you. Mawabou Taxi is available in the village. ==See== * {{listing | type=see | name=Guided motorboat excursions | alt= | url=https://www.wemindjitourism.ca | email=info.tourism@tawich.ca | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 819-978-3737 | tollfree= | hours=July to early September | price=2-hour tour $219 per person, 3-hour tour $310 per person | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-19 | content=Excursions to James Bay and Paint Hills Island, or any of the many islands surrounding Wemindji, where wildlife can be observed. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Wemindji Pow Wow | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= Second weekend in August | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-19 | content=Drumming and dancing. }} ==Do== * {{listing | type=do | name=Shammy Adventures | alt= | url=http://creeadventures.ca {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=8 Visitor Drive | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 819-978-7100 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-19 | content=The traditional site offers various cultural and adventurous activities in summer/fall and winter, like canoing and snowsoeing. Learn and exchange on Cree culture and its ecological knowledge of our world. Introduction to fishing, medicinal plants, identification of fauna and flora, furs, handicrafts, craft workshop, preparation and tasting of traditional dishes, quad and motor boat ride on the Opinaca River, canoe ride on Lake Akukameskasich, tales & legends around the campfire in the tipi, hiking, canoe expedition on lakes and rivers. Traditional Cree tents with fire in the wood stove (spring, autumn, winter). }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Kayak and canoe rentals | alt= | url=https://www.wemindjitourism.ca/activity/canoe-and-kayak-excursion/ | email=info.tourism@tawich.ca | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 819-978-3737 | tollfree= | hours=July to early September | price=2 hr $25-30, 3-hr $35-40, full day $55-60 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-19 | content=Life jackets and paddles included. }} *Explore a deserted island *Learn about how to build a Cree tipi shelter *Look at the freighter canoes *Observe northern plant, animal and sea life *Walk the rocky coastline *Mountain bike the singletrack and two-track trails around the village ==Buy== * {{listing | type=buy | name=Community Store | alt= | url= | email= | address=Chemin de Wemindji at Stone | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=buy | name=Sibi Hardware Store | alt= | url= | email= | address=Maquatua Road at Goose Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-19 | content= }} * {{listing | type=buy | name=Bank of Montreal | alt= | url= | email= | address=Maquatua Road at Taewich Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-19 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Krisanne's Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Powerplay Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{eat | name=M&M's Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=Smiley's Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= 17 Hilltop | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 819-978-3031 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-19 | content= }} ==Drink== Please respect that Wemindji is a dry community. No alcohol is legally available. ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Maquatua Inn | alt= | url=https://www.escapelikeneverbefore.com/en/members/maquata-inn/69/accommodations/ | email=mgr.maquatuainn@tawich.ca | address=22 Gilpin | lat=52.9991 | long=-78.8115 | directions=at the mouth of the Maquatua River | phone=+1 819-978-3166 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-04-18 | content=Hotel. Dining room open nightly. 30 modern rooms are available, all with private bath, fridge and microwave. The hotel also has a boutique filled with arts and crafts made by local artists. }} * {{sleep | name=Kookum Sarah's Bed & Breakfast | alt= | url= | email= | address=15 Riverside | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 819-978-3501 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-18 | content= }} There are primitive, informal camping locations available just outside of the Village. You may be able to park an RV near the freighter canoe launch. It is best to ask if it is OK at the Police station or the village offices. There is a large construction site or gravel pit about 10 km east of the village which would be a good place to park an RV, although it is somewhat far from the village. There is a lot of room there, it is all flat gravel. Ask at the village about what is the best place to park. There are no water or dump station services, you will need to be self contained. If you are tenting, take a good groundcloth to protect your tent and sleeping pad to protect your back, most good camp areas are gravel. Throughout the James Bay Region, it is common to park the vehicle just off the road and camp. There are a number of quarries, logging roads and access roads that can be used with care to find good sites for tenting and RV parking off of the main road. ==Cope== * {{listing | name=Wemindji Police Force | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 819 978-0320 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Ambulance | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +1 819-978-3911 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Fire Department | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 819 978-3773 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Clinic | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 819-978-3117 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{listing | name=Dental Services | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 819-978-0341 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} ==Connect== ==Go next== The nearest villages by road are Radisson (198 km), Chisasibi (268 km), and Eastmain (366 km). {{IsPartOf|Baie-James}} {{Usablecity}} {{geo|53|-78.8}} hbvtah9yujhrn5jmxqg46card7ztm15 0 38961 5091223 5057624 2025-07-11T07:08:49Z DaGizza 162256 /* Historic towns */ 5091223 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Zaandijk banner.jpg|caption=Houses along the waterfront in Zaandijk}} The '''Western Netherlands''' is the region that most foreign visitors to the Netherlands attend. Quite frankly, many of them don't even see any other part of the country at all—this region has everything you'd expect from the country and has the most sights and activities. It is the most urbanized area of the country. [[Amsterdam]], [[The Hague]], [[Rotterdam]] and [[Utrecht]], the four largest cities of the country, are all in this region. There is an abundance of airports, ports, museums, restaurants and nightlife. However, most of the land is still of a rural nature. The endless flat polders Holland is famous for are omnipresent—with the occasional cute village popping up. Interesting places like [[Kinderdijk]], [[Marken]], [[Oudewater]], [[Volendam]] and [[Zaanse Schans]] are just a short train/bus (or bike!) ride from the major cities. ==Regions== {{Regionlist | regionmap=Western-netherlands-map.png | regionmapsize=400px | regionInteractiveMap=map1 | regionmaptext=Western Netherlands provinces - colour-coded map | region1name=[[Flevoland]] | region1color=#b383b3 | region1description=The Netherlands' newest province, almost completely formed through land reclamation. | region2name=[[North Holland]] | region2color=#a4c28d | region2description=Most visited region with Amsterdam and traditional Dutch rural villages. | region3name=[[South Holland]] | region3color=#c5995c | region3description=Most densely populated region with plenty of different rural landscapes - polders, bulb fields, dunes, islands, lakes and agricultural areas. | region4name=[[Utrecht (province)|Utrecht]] | region4color=#c8b7b7 | region4description=Rivers, lakes and nature, and some historic towns. }} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b383b3|title=[[Flevoland]]|wikidata=Q707}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#a4c28d|title=[[North Holland]]|wikidata=Q701}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c5995c|title=[[South Holland]]|wikidata=Q694}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#c8b7b7|title=[[Utrecht (province)|Utrecht]]|wikidata=Q776}} ==Cities== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Amsterdam]]|wikidata=Q727}} — traveller magnet due to its impressive architecture, lovely canals, museums and infamous nightlife * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Alkmaar]]|wikidata=Q972}} — historic town popular for its cheese market * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Delft]]|wikidata=Q690}} — historic unspoiled town with traditional architecture, canals, bikes, and the world famous blue and white ceramics * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Haarlem]]|wikidata=Q9920}} — 17th century town centre, shops and numerous museums * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Gouda]]|wikidata=Q84125}} — world-famous for its Gouda cheese and the home of ''stroopwafels'' * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Leiden]]|wikidata=Q43631}} — historic student city with the oldest university in the country and three national museums * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Rotterdam]]|wikidata=Q34370}} — modern architecture, as well as one of the largest ports in the world * {{marker|type=city|name=[[The Hague]]|wikidata=Q36600}} — judicial capital of the world, as well as the seat of the Dutch government and the royal family * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Utrecht]]|wikidata=Q803}} — historic city, university town and the Rietveld Schröder House ==Other destinations== * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Lisse|Keukenhof]]|wikidata=Q332730}} — more than 800,000 visitors see these enormous flower gardens each spring * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Kinderdijk]]|wikidata=Q740066}} — these mills show the Dutch landscape in its historic glory * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Scheveningen]]|wikidata=Q837211}} — largest and most-populous beach resort of the Netherlands; administratively a part of The Hague * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Noordoostpolder|Schokland]]|wikidata=Q69262}} — this used to be an island community, but an evacuation in 1859 put an end to it all * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Schiphol Airport]]|wikidata=Q9694}} — the international airport of Amsterdam, one of Europe's busiest airport cities * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Texel]]|wikidata=Q9966}} — one of the West Frisian Islands, it houses great tourist resorts for its beaches * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Zaanse Schans]]|wikidata=Q136661}} — open-air display of Dutch windmills and houses * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Zaanstreek-Waterland]]|wikidata=Q2621328}} — traditional Dutch villages with clogs, wooden houses and windmills * {{marker|type=vicinity|name=[[Zuid-Kennemerland National Park]]|wikidata=Q774464}} — forests, beaches and dunes to hike or cycle around in ==Understand== [[File:Keukenhof flowers park, Netherlands (33096051910).jpg|350px|thumb|Keukenhof flower park in the municipality of Lisse, South Holland]] The Western Netherlands is the most visited part of the Netherlands and is a very diverse region. It is home to the largest cities of the country, but the typical Dutch rural landscapes can also be found here. Its four provinces are among the most densely populated areas in Europe. Much of the territory is part of the '''Randstad''', a conurbation with more than 7.5 million inhabitants. It consists of the four largest cities ([[Amsterdam]], [[Rotterdam]], [[The Hague]] and [[Utrecht]]) and their surrounding areas. Randstad means "rim city", as it is shaped like an urbanized circle with an empty green space in the middle. That center is known as the [[Groene Hart]] ("Green Heart"), a rural area that mostly consists of pancake flat polders and lakes. The Randstad is an '''economic powerhouse''' that other regions of the country rely on. Trade is probably the most important economic activity in the Netherlands due to its geographic location between Germany and the North Sea. The '''Port of Rotterdam''' is the largest port of Europe and its trade over the Rhine with the German [[Ruhr]] area is an important engine for the Dutch economy. [[Amsterdam]] is an important financial center and many multinationals have their headquarters in the city. Amsterdam also has the country's largest airport, [[Schiphol Airport]], which is the third busiest airport of the continent (2016), and one of the world's airport cities. Not the capital Amsterdam, but [[The Hague]] is the country's political center. The '''Binnenhof''' is where much of the country's important political decisions are made. The Hague is not just important nationally, but also has a large influence on justice and international relations on a global scale. It is known as the "judicial capital of the world" as it is home to some of the world's most important international institutions: the International Court of Justice, the International Criminal Court, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and Europol. The '''Peace Palace''' is a symbol of international cooperation and peace. ==Get in== ===By plane=== Many visitors to the Western Netherlands (and the Netherlands in general) arrive at [[Schiphol Airport]]. It is not in Amsterdam, but is in the adjacent municipality of Haarlemmermeer on reclaimed land below sea level. '''Rotterdam The Hague Airport''' is a much smaller airport that been functioning as a base for low-cost carriers to other European destinations. More information about the airport can be found in the [[Rotterdam#By plane|Rotterdam]] article. In the future '''Lelystad Airport''' in [[Lelystad]] will be further expanded to allow low-cost carriers to land there. ===By train=== There are a plethora of train services running to all other provinces of the country. Also, there are international connections with Antwerp, Brussels, Berlin, Frankfurt and Milan. Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht and Leiden are the major train hubs. ===By car=== Many roads connect the western region with other regions of the Netherlands. If you're coming from the south, the '''A2''' connects Amsterdam and Utrecht with 's-Hertogenbosch, Eindhoven and Maastricht, while the '''A27''' is the principal connection from Breda and the [[Flanders|Flemish Diamond]] metropolitan region. If you're coming from the east, the '''A12''' connects the region with the Hoge Veluwe National Park, Arnhem and the Ruhr in Germany, and the A1 is leading to the region from Twente and Apeldoorn. From northern provinces like Friesland or Groningen, the '''A6''' or '''A7''' (over the Afsluitdijk) is the fastest route. ==Get around== ===By train=== Most foreign visitors use the train to get around. The '''[http://www.ns.nl/en Netherlands Railways]''' serves nearly every large town, and you can use the website to plan your journey ahead of time. The major cities of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht all have local urban rail services as well. Trams serve all these 4 cities, with metro subway services available in Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Line E of the Rotterdam Metro extends to serve The Hague's central station. ===By bus=== The bus is mostly used as a way of transport within towns or between towns in the same area. Bus travel is time-consuming, confusing and slow, so avoid it if there's rail transport available. There's a plethora of bus companies available that all serve a different set of regions and provinces. You can plan your journey at '''[http://journeyplanner.9292.nl/ 9292.nl]'''. ===By car=== The Randstad has various motorways. Traffic jams can occur at any time of the day; however rush hour lasts during 06:00–10.00 and 15:00–19:00. Major bottlenecks can create traffic jams up to 20 kilometres in length. Most motorways are no wider than 2x2 or 2x3 lanes. Some hard shoulders are in use as peak hour lanes - traffic is allowed to use the hard shoulder as a third lane during periods of congestion, when signs indicate. Because of the lack of sufficient minor roads, local traffic also uses the motorways for short distances. ===By bicycle=== [[Cycling]] is a popular activity among the Dutch and a great way to see more of the landscape. There are bicycle paths between all towns, some of which traverse through picturesque villages, green polders and forests. Some scenic bicycle paths are numbered and sign-posted throughout the region; maps for them are provided at local tourist information offices. Cycling is especially appealing in the [[Zaanstreek-Waterland]], [[Gooi en Vechtstreek]] and the [[Green Heart]]. ==See== ===Historic towns=== [[File:00 0781 Canal in Delft (NL).jpg|thumb|Canal in the city of Delft, South Holland]] There are dozens of historic towns in the Netherlands that deserve a visit. The most well-known obviously is the historic 17th-century city center of [[Amsterdam]]. Its historic architecture can be explored by a boat tour which goes through its lovely canals (known as ''grachten''). The center became a [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]] in 2010. Many visitors include a day-trip to one of the West's other historic cities. [[North Holland]] is filled with them — [[Haarlem]], [[Alkmaar]], [[Hoorn]] and [[Enkhuizen]] are less than one hour away as a day-trip from the capital. [[South Holland]] also has a few interesting historic towns. [[Delft]] is a tourist-favorite with its traditional architecture, canals, bikes, and the world famous blue and white '''ceramics'''. [[Gouda]] is known from the world famous '''Gouda cheese''' — but besides the cheese market, its historic town center is a really fun walk. [[Leiden]], while historical, has much of a student-feel due the presence of the oldest university of the Netherlands there. The traditionally Catholic city of [[Utrecht]] is not visited a lot by foreigners, but it’s hard to understand why — it has the amenities of a big city, but its canals feel even more calm and relaxed than those in average medium-sized cities. It's an excellent destination to visit some antique stores or grab a beer while seeing the boats pass by. [[Amersfoort]] is a lot smaller, but again, its ancient center makes for a nice day out. ===Traditional Holland=== [[Image:The windmills of Kinderdijk.JPG|350px|thumb|Kinderdijk, a line of several old wind mills. Some of them are open for visitors.]] The Holland of cheese, windmills, clogs and polders can best be seen in the countryside. Most foreigners at least incorporate a visit to the [[Zaanstreek-Waterland]] — a traditional region of small villages where a traditional folk culture is still present. The most visited attraction of the area is the [[Zaanse Schans]], which is only 10&nbsp;km north of Amsterdam. It's a cute display of typical Dutch '''windmills'''. [[Volendam]] is a well-known traditional fishing village, often visited for its magnificent waterfront boulevard and its people wearing old Dutch '''costumes'''. More authentic nearby communities include [[Monnickendam]] and [[Marken]], the latter with its characteristic wooden houses. Another famous export product of Holland is cheese, and you might want to catch a traditional '''cheese market'''. The largest cheese market of the Netherlands is held in [[Alkmaar]]. [[Gouda]] is world-famous for its '''Gouda cheese''', and that town also has its own cheese market. The cheese market of [[Edam]] is another fair choice if you want to see (and taste) some. [[Beemster]] also has its own cheese, which is sold all over the world, but more interesting is the '''Beemster Polder'''. Because of its historical relevance, and because the original grid pattern of the area is still largely intact, it was inscribed on the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]] in 1999. Beside the Gouda cheese market, [[South Holland]] has a lot more typical Hollandic scenery on offer. Every Spring, the [[Bulb Region]] becomes alive with miles and miles of enormous '''flower fields''' — including tulips. Hundreds of thousands of visitors go to the [[Lisse|Keukenhof]] each year to see its beautifully arranged flowers. The windmills at [[Kinderdijk]], about 20&nbsp;km east from Rotterdam, are very authentic and make a great stroll through the countryside. [[Delft]] is also a must-see for its typical Dutch blue and white ceramics. === The new landmass: Flevoland === [[File:20170827 015 Lelystad Oostvadersplassen (36878065565).jpg|thumb|Konik horses, an old Polish breed, in Oostvaardersplassen]] [[Flevoland]] is a new province reclaimed in the 20th century from the sea: it consists of the Noordoostpolder and the Flevopolder close to Amsterdam, the largest artificial island of the world. As these areas have been only populated after World War II, the cities here are not considered very attractive by most of the Dutch. You may be interested, for example, in the National Aviation Museum in Lelystad, the province's capital, or the Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve. Oddly enough, there is one traditional community residing in the Noordoostpolder. The reason for that is that two former islands have been integrated into the Noordoostpolder. [[Urk]] is one of these former islands, and one of the most religiously Protestant communities of the country. You might still spot some traditional villagers in their old costumes or wooden shoes. Another former island is Schokland, which used to be a similar community like Urk, but it had to be evacuated in 1859 due to destructive floods. Some old buildings still remain, and the area with its museum has the honor of being the first [[UNESCO World Heritage List|UNESCO World Heritage Site]] of the Netherlands in 1995. ===Castles and fortifications=== The region is filled with history and there are plenty of castles and fortifications to be found. Surrounding Amsterdam in the province of [[North Holland]] is the '''Defence Line of Amsterdam''' (''Stelling van Amsterdam''), a 135&nbsp;km long ring of fortifications around the capital city. In total, it consists of 42 forts about 10 to 15 kilometers from the city center. It's surrounded by low polder lands, which could easily be flooded in time of war. While the line was constructed from the 19th-century, many of its 42 forts are actually structures from the Middle Ages. One of them is the '''Muiderslot''', a 13th-century castle in [[Muiden]] that's definitely worth a visit. Nearby are the 17th-century fortifications of [[Naarden]], which are among the best preserved in Europe. The town is an example of a Spanish star fort, in an exceptional quality and complete with fortified walls and a moat. [[Weesp]] is another fortified town near Amsterdam, and could be a nice daytrip. Then there is '''Castle De Haar''' in [[Utrecht (province)|Utrecht]], which has a history since at least 1391. It did fell into ruins in the 17th-century and had to be largely rebuilt in 1892 by the Dutch architect P.J.H. Cuypers — he did a magnificent job at it. ===Modern architecture=== [[File:Rotterdam Cube House.jpg|350px|thumb|Cube houses in Rotterdam]] Rotterdam is the only Dutch city that could be thought of as having a decent modern skyline. It was already a centre of modernist architecture in the early 1900s, but since its city centre was heavily bombed throughout World War II, it got a completely different feel than traditional Amsterdam. Rotterdam is a play garden of modern architects, which has led to the largest residential building (Montevideo Tower) and the largest office building (Maastoren) of the country. The '''Euromast''' and the '''Erasmus Bridge''' are must-visits as they are an integral part of the look and feel of Rotterdam's skyline. The city is also home to some quirky architecture, such as the cube houses. Though, Rotterdam has also some old parts like Delftshaven. [[Utrecht]] has the '''Rietveld Schröder House''', arguably the only true ''De Stijl'' building and another UNESCO-designated site. Other modern architecture nuts might want to spend some time in [[Hilversum]], where architect Dudok designed a lot of buildings (and even whole neighborhoods) in the New Objectivity style. His most important creation there is the Hilversum Town Hall. Many other architects have also contributed to Hilversum as it is today, including Jan Duiker, MVRDV, Pierre Cuypers and Ben van Berkel. [[Flevoland]] is a new province, its land has been reclaimed from the sea in the 20th century. This gave the province a completely different feel than the old provinces. [[Almere]] is like a suburb of Amsterdam, and while many Dutch claim it as the most boring city of the country, it does have a lot of modern architectural highlights. Some neighborhoods in Almere gave their inhabitants the freedom to design their own building. Others have been designed by famous architects, such as La Defense Offices by Ben van Berkel. ==Do== '''Cycling''' is a popular activity among the Dutch as it is a fun way to get some exercise and get around beautiful towns and the surrounding nature. Obviously a bicycle tour through the center of [[Amsterdam]] is well-worth it, but many other regions are fun to cycle through as well — such as the [[Zaanstreek-Waterland]], the [[Gooi en Vechtstreek]] or the [[Green Heart]]. During Springtime a cycle tour through the [[Bulb Region]] is well worth it as you can take pictures of enormous and colorful flower fields. When you say '''beach''', most Dutch people will think of [[Scheveningen]], which is an integral part of the city of [[The Hague]] (don't say this out loud though as the people of Scheveningen feel their town as having a separate identity). It is the most popular seaside resort of the country, and expect it to be very crowded when the temperatures get tropical. It has a long sandy beach, an esplanade, a pier, and a lighthouse. The 19th-century luxury hotel and restaurant Kurhaus makes for an impressive sight and is well-known all over the country. The most important seaside resort of [[North Holland]] is [[Zandvoort]], but its a lot calmer and is not to be compared with the former. Other calm beaches can be found in [[Bergen (North Holland)|Bergen]], [[Kennemerland]], the [[Bulb Region]] and the island of [[Texel]]. Many locals enjoy '''water sports''' at the artificial lakes in the area. [[Wijdemeren]], [[Aalsmeer]], [[Kaag]], [[Stichtse Vecht]] and plenty of destinations in the [[Green Heart]] can be visited for this purpose. Other lakes such as Markermeer are surrounding the Flevopolder island. ==Eat== [[Image:Cheese 43 bg 060106.jpg|350px|thumb|Gouda cheese]] The Western Netherlands have a cuisine that is remarkably different than the other regions in the country (Western cuisine includes [[Zeeland]] and [[Rivierenland|Southwest Gelderland]]). It is known for its world famous '''cheese''', such as Gouda, [[Leiden|Leyden]], [[Edam]], [[Leerdam]] and [[Beemster]] cheese. Some of these cheeses, mostly notably [[Gouda]], is sold in supermarkets all over the world including the United States and the United Kingdom. Another dairy product home to the region is '''butter'''. The butter produced in [[South Holland]] is known for its large amount of milkfat compared to butter from other European countries. '''Buttermilk''', that is produced during the butter-making process is also a typical product for the region. As the Dutch have always fought against the sea, '''seafood''' is some of the most traditional food of the region. '''Raw herring''' is a must-try, especially with cut onions sprinkled on top and wrapped in a bread roll. Other seafood you could try are ''kibbeling'', mussels, eels, oysters and shrimps. You can buy them in sea food carts in the city center of most towns or in supermarkets. ==Drink== '''Beer''' is the traditional alcoholic beverage of the region, especially the pilsner variety (known in Dutch as ''pils''). Every town has a bar with its local beer on offer, in larger cities bars usually have a wider selection of beers available. '''Jenever''' is a high proof juniper-flavoured spirit that is very popular in the region, especially among older generations. In the English-speaking world, this beverage is known as Dutch gin, and it is the variety from which other kinds of gin evolved. Another alcoholic beverage from the region is '''advocaat''', a rich and creamy liqueur made from eggs, sugar and brandy. It has a yellowish appearance and a smooth, custard-like flavour. It generally has an alcohol percentage between 14% and 20%. ==Stay safe== The Western region is safe in general. There are some outer suburbs that are better avoided, especially in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and The Hague, but these are mostly outside of the typical tourist spots. ==Go next== The [[Hoge Veluwe National Park]] is a popular visit among the locals. Day-trips to [['s-Hertogenbosch]], [[Breda]], [[Nijmegen]] and [[Zwolle]] are just a few of the options available. {{IsPartOf|Netherlands}} {{usableregion}} {{geo|52.35212|5.14435|zoom=9}} qiozrjruuzpig8p05k2el89lceerk51 0 39093 5090729 5081303 2025-07-10T12:14:51Z 188.95.246.8 /* Drink */ highly subjective opinion 5090729 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|West Norway banner.jpg|caption=Fjords and coast near Molde}} '''[http://www.fjordnorway.com/en/ Western Norway]''', ''Vestlandet'', is a region of [[Norway]] with 1.3 million citizens, famous for its fjords and mountainous sceneries. [[Bergen]] and [[Stavanger]] are dominant cities. There are [[Fjords of Norway|fjords all along Norway's]] endless coast, but in West Norway fjords are particularly long, steep and deep. {{quote|Vestlandet, Norway, is 'Oh My God' Country|author=''New York Times''}} ==Regions== Counties of West Norway. {{Regionlist | regionmap=WestNorway.png | regionmaptext=Regions of West Norway | regionmapsize=350px | region1name=[[Møre og Romsdal]] | region1color=#b383b3 | region1description=Home to iconic fjords such as [[Geiranger]]. Alpine mountains rising from the sea. | region2name=[[Sogn og Fjordane]] | region2color=#71b37b | region2description=Home to the [[Sognefjord|longest and deepest fjord]], the [[Jotunheimen|highest mountains]], the [[Jostedalsbreen|largest glacier]], the longest road tunnel, the ancient churches | region3name=[[Hordaland]] | region3color=#d09440 | region3description= Enchanting, ancient [[Bergen]]. Romantic fjords of [[Hardanger]] | region4name=[[Rogaland]] | region4color=#d56d76 | region4description=Oil capital Stavanger. From lowlands with sandy beaches to wild mountains and iconic Lysefjord. }} [[Image:Stegastein2.jpg|thumb|350px|Aurlandsfjord seen from Stegastein]] {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b383b3|title=[[Møre og Romsdal]]|wikidata=Q50627}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Sogn og Fjordane]]|wikidata=Q50626}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d09440|title=[[Hordaland]]|wikidata=Q50625}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d56d76|title=[[Rogaland]]|wikidata=Q50624}} ==Settlements== ===Cities=== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bergen]]|wikidata=Q26793}} &mdash; regional centre and ancient Hanseatic trading point *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Stavanger]]|wikidata=Q25416}} &mdash; Norway's petroleum capital. ===Towns and villages=== [[File:Småhus i Stavanger.jpg|thumb|Characteristic wooden buildings (Stavanger).]] *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Balestrand]]|wikidata=Q493292}} &mdash; charming village by the Sognefjord *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Florø]]|wikidata=Q1020010}} &mdash; small, charming coastal town *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Førde]]|wikidata=Q113571}} &mdash; business centre in the traditional district of Sunnfjord *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Haugesund]]|wikidata=Q109036}}&mdash; known as the "Home of the Viking Kings" because of the burial site of Harald Fairhair *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kristiansund]]|wikidata=Q109483}} &mdash; traditional fishing port on islands in the Atlantic, known for clipfish *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Molde]]|wikidata=Q104095}} &mdash; impressive panorama and great fjord, annual jazz festival *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Måløy]]|wikidata=Q980129}} &mdash; small, coastal town on the island of Vågsøy *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Voss]]|wikidata=Q109031}} &mdash; winter sport capital of western Norway *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ålesund]]|wikidata=Q62266}} &mdash; rebuilt in characteristic art nouveau after the 1904 devastating fire ==Other destinations== [[Image:Holmen Balestrand2.jpg|thumb|250px|Balestrand.]] *{{marker|name=[[Atlanterhavsveien]]|wikidata=Q756561}} &mdash; The Atlantic Road: National tourist route and voted to one of the world's best road trips by The Guardian *{{marker|name=[[Dovrefjell]]|wikidata=Q2100974}} &mdash; a mountainous area consisting of two large national parks (comprises also parts of [[East Norway]] and [[Trøndelag]]) * {{marker|name=[[Geiranger]]|wikidata=Q1019493}} &mdash; iconic fjord visited by several hundred cruise ships each summer *{{marker|name=[[Jostedalsbreen]]|wikidata=Q654352}} &mdash; the largest glacier on the European mainland *{{marker|name=[[Jotunheimen]]|wikidata=Q588281}} - Scandinavia's highest mountains *{{marker|name=[[Sognefjorden]]|wikidata=Q208495}} &mdash; Norway's longest fjord and deepest fjord with [[Flåm]] and [[Luster]] *{{marker|name=[[Valldal]]|wikidata=Q6514066}} &mdash; green valley among alpine mountains, connects [[Geiranger]] and Trollstigen/[[Åndalsnes]] * {{marker|name=[[Åndalsnes]]|wikidata=Q271083}} with Romsdal valley - the most alpine valley between the great fjords and the wide interior * {{marker|name=[[Stryn]]|wikidata=Q5223}} &mdash; summer ski capital, fine glaciers in next door [[Olden|Olden and Loen]] ==Understand== [[File:Haukalivatnet.JPG|thumb|Haukelivatnet lake, birthplace of the ice age theory.]] Geographically, this is the archetypal Norway. Although '''fjords''' can be found in other parts of the world, the word is Norwegian, and this is the region of Norway where the most of the iconic fjords can be found. A fjord (the "j" is pronounced like an "y" in English) is a long, narrow, deep bay, usually surrounded by equally steep mountainous terrain. In West Norway, the largest can extend 200&nbsp;km (124&nbsp;mi) inland, 1300&nbsp;m (4265&nbsp;ft) deep. The great fjords of western Norway cuts deep into the mainland and are particularly dramatic at the intersection with the high central mountains from Hardangervidda via [[Jotunheimen]] to the "alps" around [[Åndalsnes]]. Most fjords continue onshore as deep u-shaped (often gorge-like) valleys such as [[Lærdal]], [[Romsdal]], [[Sunndal]] and [[Gudvangen]], several of these valleys are home to pretty, usually very deep, lakes such as [[Olden]] and [[Eidfjord]] lakes. Note that in some areas major freshwater lakes, although not connected to the ocean, are frequently called fjords. The fjords of western Norway has been rated as the world's top tourist destination by National Geographic Magazine. In a rating of UNESCO world heritage sites, [[Geiranger]], in Møre og Romsdal and [[Gudvangen|Nærøyfjord]], in Sogn og Fjordane, also obtained top score in a survey conducted by National Geographic. Several great waterfalls can be found in Western Norway. Many of them fall directly into the famous fjords as well as along the deep valleys extending into the mountains beyond the fjords. Unique in West Norway is that these waterfalls are found in large number all across the region. One third of the world's 30 tallest waterfalls (as listed on Wikipedia) are in West Norway and most of the tall waterfalls in Europe are in this region. The only really even lowland area is [[Jæren]], the region south of Stavanger. Jæren also has long stretches of sandy beaches and is not protected by lines of islands and skerries like the rest of this extremely fragmented coast. The beaches at Jæren are popular among kiters and surfers. Other flat lowlands include a small number of islands such as Smøla and Giske. Elsewhere the terrain is in general extremely fragmented along the ocean as well as in the interior where grand fjords, green gentle valleys and steep mountains dominate. While famous for its natural landscapes, West Norway is also very rich in natural resources and an economically strong region. The rich fisheries of the North Sea and Atlantic lies just off the shores of West Norway, so does the oil and gas fields on the Norwegian continental shelf. Redundancy of water and steep mountains make West Norway ideal for hydro electric power production, supplying ample amount of electricity to industry and western cities as well as large parts of East Norway. The name "Norway" ("way to the North") originally referred to the sea lane along the coast of West Norway from somewhere around present day Stavanger and northward. In the Middle Ages West Norwegians were referred to as "nordmenn" ("men of the North" or "Norwegians"), while people of East Norway were called "austmenn" ("Men of the East"). The name "Norway" was subsequently and gradually extended to the entire territory of the present Kingdom of Norway. The southern part of West Norway (around Stavanger) is often referred to as the south-west, while the northern part (around Ålesund-Molde) is called the north-west. The theory about ice ages over Scandinavia and other parts of world was formularer in 1823 when professor Jens Esmark compared moraines across Western Norway. At Haukalivatnet lake (near Lysefjorden) there is a distinct end moraine presumably created by a prehistoric glacier. Esmark noted the similarity to moraines in front of retreating glaciers in Stryn mountains and Jostedalsbreen. Esmark's observation is one of the great discoveries in the Earth sciences. ==Talk== [[File:Reinheimen info board.jpg|thumb|Information board in English at the entrance to Reinheimen National Park, Trollstigen on [[Road 63 (Norway) ]].]] The language in West Norway is [[Norwegian phrasebook|Norwegian]], with dialects that are distinctly different from eastern dialects. Unlike most of Norway but similar to France and northern Germany, dialects in Hordaland (including Bergen) and Rogaland have a distinct guttural R-sound. Dialects further north in West Norway have a distinct "rolling R" (voiced alveolar trill) similar to Castilian (Spanish). Foreign visitors will note a difference in melody only. Written Norwegian may differ somewhat as a different standard for writing, called ''nynorsk'', is frequently used in West Norway. As in the rest of Norway, virtually everybody under 60 years of age speak or understand English. Many information signs in public places are printed in English. In tourist hot spots like Geiranger and Bergen, French and German are also common among service personnel. Don't be surprised to meet service workers that manage other languages such as Russian, Dutch, Italian or Spanish. ==Get in== ===By plane=== Bergen and Stavanger have fairly large airports and are well connected with several European cities and major Norwegian cities. There are also international flights to Haugesund, Molde and Ålesund. Small airports, with connections from Oslo and for most of them from Bergen, are located at Florø, Førde, Kristiansund, Ørsta/Volda, Sandane, Sogndal and Stord. The largest airlines are [http://www.flysas.com/ SAS] and [http://www.norwegian.no Norwegian], and for the small airports [http://www.wideroe.no Widerøe]. ===By rail=== International trains (and buses) go from Gothenburg and Stockholm in Sweden to Oslo. From Oslo, there are several lines to end stations on the West coast. Raumabanen (an arm of Dovrebanen, the Oslo-Trondheim line) runs from Dombås to [[Åndalsnes]]. Bergensbanen connects Oslo and Bergen across the mountain. The famous '''Flåmsbana''' (''[http://www.flaamsbana.no/eng/ Flåm railway]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'') branches off Bergensbanen at Myrdal. Sørlandsbanen connects Oslo and Stavanger via Kristiansand in [[South Norway]]. ===By car=== Western Norway occupies the entire west coast south of Trondheim until the mountain passes. There are accordingly numerous domestic entrances, basically along the east-west European highways E18, E134, E16, E136 as well as [[European route E39|E39, the coastal main road]]. Travellers should also consider alternative routes (often a more scenic option) on national route 7, 15, 50, 55 and 70. ===By boat=== West Norway can be reached by [http://fjordline.com/ Fjordline ferry] from [[Hirtshals]] in [[Denmark]], to Stavanger and Bergen. Hirtshals is reached by [http://dsb.dk/ DSB] train. ==Get around== [[File:Fitjar Islands.JPG|thumb|Air transport gives a different perspective on this rugged land. Stord-Fitjar archipelago south of Bergen.]] ===By plane=== There are frequent flights between Bergen and Stavanger. There are also daily flights between Bergen and most of the airports listed in the "Get in" section. ===By boat=== Bergen is connected to many coastal towns to the north by [[Hurtigruten]] (the coastal steamer), which is a combined cargo and cruise ship (also accepts cars). North-south along the coast there are a few express passenger boats between Bergen and small towns to the north (operated by '''[http://www.norled.no/en/ Norled]'''). Villages and small towns along Sognefjorden is also connected to Bergen by these high speed catamarans. The fjord and island areas are typically best enjoyed from a boat. ===By rail=== Due to complex topography West Norway does not have an integrated rail network. The railway does however offer opportunity for scenic rides. Train is most suitable for transport between Bergen, Voss, Flåm and the mountains; transport between Stavanger, Sandnes and small towns south of Sandnes. Bergen-Voss-Flåm is included in the famous "Norway in a nutshell" tour. The scenic Raumabanen railway from Dombås to Åndalsnes is an alternative to bus or car in the Romsdalen valley. Tickets and timetables on [http://www.nsb.no/ nsb.no]. ===By bus=== West Norway has an integrated network of local and long-distance coaches covering most of the region. The bus routes seamlessly interoperate with the ferry services that they need for their routes. The bus would drive onto the ferry, passengers are asked to disembark while the bus is locked (for safety reasons) for most of the trip, and then close to the end of the ferry journey, passengers are expected to be back on board the bus. Buses will ''not'' wait for passengers who are late. Most services operate a few times every day and tickets can generally be bought on board. Nor-Way buses require an app to make the payment. Skyss buses have credit card readers. While it is possible to reserve on Skyss buses ahead of time, the ticket is only good for an hour. One can also just show up and pay on boarding. The apps for the bus service can help in remote parts of the country, where, you making the reservation, can inform drivers that they need to stop to pick someone up. Bus services can require that you reserve at least 15 mins ahead of the bus arriving, for them to stop. If you have not reserved, you may have to actively flag the bus down as soon as you see the bus approaching. Drivers have been known to drive past if signalled too late. The cost of the ferry is included in the price of your bus ticket. The ferry services generally have a cafeteria and restrooms onboard so this works out well on long bus journeys. Vegetarians and vegans might have very few options here. Most coach services are listed on the [http://www.nor-way.no/ Nor-Way Bussexpress website], who also operate the majority of long-distance routes. A number of long and medium distances services in the region are also provided by [http://www.fjord1.no/ Fjord 1], and other operators run further services - not all of which are listed with Nor-way, so do your research. In [[Møre og Romsdal]] county there is also the Timeekspressen connecting main towns (Volda-Ålesund-Molde-Kristiansund) by hourly departures. There is a new long-distance coach connecting Stavanger with Bergen (Haugesund and Leirvik/Stord) in only 5 hours. It can only be booked online at [http://nettbuss.no/ekspressbuss/bus4you Nettbuss] with tickets starting at 249 kr. The bus service provide Wifi, power outlet, wc, air condition and luxurious chairs. The bus schedule can be found [http://nettbuss.no/www/resources/nbno/c/ca1d3153a1cf0ed998d4879fbb50d9ab.pdf here] Many bus journeys in the region are spectacular experiences in themselves, such as the [[Sognefjellet]] route between [[Sogndal]] and [[Lom (Norway)|Lom]]. Bus connections can be searched on [http://www.rutebok.no/ rutebok.no]. [[File:Ferjekø (8337).jpg|thumb|250px|A large number of ferries connect roads in the very fragmented western area.]] ===By car=== [[File:Sogn og Fjordane Laerdalstunnel 5.JPG|thumb|Lærdal tunnel at 25 km is the world's longest road tunnel. The tunnel is an attraction as such including the "blue caves" that breaks the boredom of the drive.]] {{moreinfo|driving|Driving in Norway|European route E39}} {{see also|European route E39}} Most of West Norway is sparsely populated with limited public transport, and a car provides superior freedom and flexibility for the traveler. Because some roads are narrow and steep (not shown on most road maps), travellers are advised to calculate plenty of time for driving and not to rush as this increases risk of accident. Ferries are an integral part of the road network and trips across West Norway often involve ferries. [[European route E39]] is the main road through western Norway, the E39 is perhaps Norway's most complex road with some 100 tunnels and seven ferry crossings. Norway has well over 1,000 road tunnels, a majority of them are in Western Norway and the area has five of the world's 25 longest road tunnels (Lærdal, Gudvanga, Jondal, Folgefonna and Ryfylke tunnels). Driving in tunnels is generally very safe and Norwegians don't slow down for tunnels. '''Car ferries''' on the main roads are rather frequent (typically every half hour), extremely reliable and operate with reserve capacity. Except for the popular Geiranger-Hellesylt and Gudvangen-Kaupanger ferries, tourists generally need not worry about time tables and reservations. Travelers are however recommended to calculate plenty of time for trips involving car ferries. Buses, ambulances and livestock transport have priority. On most crossings, ferries have cafeteria selling coffee, beverages, sandwiches and some hot food. Some older diesel powered vessels have been replaced by ferries running on natural gas. Across Sognefjorden there is even one running on batteries, the MF «Ampere», the world's first such ferry. Nature is the main sight in West Norway, and travelers are advised not to rush from town to town, but should instead calculate plenty of time for the road, and to stop at suitable scenic places. ==See== [[Image:View of Bryggen - Bergen, Norway.jpg|thumb|250px|Bryggen in Bergen]] [[File:Alesund - Aksla - Fjellstua.jpg|thumb|250px|Central [[Ålesund]].]] ===Fjords=== {{moreinfo|fjords in Norway|Fjords of Norway}} In Western Norway there are fjords everywhere, the visitor can't miss them. While fjords vary somewhat, their appearance is largely the same all over the area: The wildest part of the fjords are the middle section and eastern (far) end, the mouth at the ocean is generally more mellow (lower mountains and wider gaps). The entire area is however very rugged and fragmented (except the [[Jæren]] flatlands south of Stavanger). Some of the main fjords of Western Norway: * Boknafjorden with [[Ryfylke]] and Lysefjorden with iconic Pulpit rock and Kjerag * [[Hardanger]]fjord - the romantic fruit garden * [[Sognefjord]] - Norway's longest, deepest and most complex fjord system * Nordfjord including Stryn and [[Olden]] * Storfjord with [[Hjørundfjord]] and [[Geiranger]]fjord * Romsdalsfjord with [[Molde]] and [[Åndalsnes]] * Sunndalsfjord/Tingvollfjord east of [[Kristiansund]] *The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord (by [[Geiranger]]) and Nærøyfjord (by [[Gudvangen]] and [[Flåm]]). ===Nature=== [[File:Steinsdalsfossen.jpg|thumb|West Norway has countless waterfalls]] * Glaciers, several places ([[Ullensvang#See|Folgefonna]], [[Jostedalsbreen]], [[Hardangervidda|Hardangerjøkulen]]) * Waterfalls in large numbers, for instance Låtefossen waterfall in [[Ullensvang]], as well as many of the world's tallest waterfalls. * Preikestolen (The pulpit rock) by Stavanger. * Trollveggen and Trollstigen at [[Åndalsnes]] ===Man made sights=== * Bryggen, the old Hanseatic docks in Bergen * Flåm railway in [[Flåm]] * The [[Sognefjellet]] mountain pass. ==Do== *Fishing. Endless possibilities along the coast, in the fjords and in lakes. *Glacier walks on Jostedalsbreen and Folgefonna (with guide only) *Hiking. Several possibilities, among them [[Hardangervidda]] and [[Jotunheimen]]. *Skiing in Voss. *Skiing, in summertime, in [[Stryn]] or Folgefonna *Sleep in a mountain cabin. [http://www.turistforeningen.no/english/cabin.php?fo_id=6469&search_string=&action=Search&lo_id=NO_vest&ca_owner=&ca_service%5B%5D=B&ca_service%5B%5D=S&ca_service%5B%5D=U&ca_type%5B%5D=D&ca_type%5B%5D=P The Norwegian Trekking Association]{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operates 110 cabins scattered across the region. ==Eat== {{see also|Nordic cuisine}} There are various high class dining facilities in West Norway. See articles for each town. Specialities are plentiful. * Try Norwegian seafood! ==Drink== [[File:Gravensteiner äpplen i korg.jpeg|thumb|Apples like ''Gravenstein'' are used for cider.]] When in this area, the local brand of bottled water is called ''Olden''. ''Hansa'' brewery is the major beverages provider. It's safe to drink tap water in Norway as the water is among the cleanest in the world. You should therefore avoid drinking bottle water as it is not good for the environment. Inner fjord areas such as Hardanger, Sognefjord and Valldal have long apple growing traditions. There are many cider producers in the area some of these ciders are of high quality and match fine white wine from central Europe and the best cider internationally. Norwegian cider is typically fresh, aromatic and dry. Ciders rich in tannins and with a more bitter taste are less common. Ciders can be light sparkling or still. Most cider producers accept visitors and sell by the bottle. ==Stay safe== West Norway is as safe as the rest of Norway (see general information on Norway). In western Norway there are several roads with very narrow stretches where even small cars can not pass easily. Be extremely careful around blind corners on these roads. Stick to your side of the road! While roads may look dangerous, there are few accidents on these roads. Show respect for the sea. Every year tourists die in small rented boats; usually having gone out in bad weather. Waves coming in from the Atlantic can be extremely powerful, but even in what seems like sheltered waters the wind can capsize a small boat. ==Go next== *[[Trøndelag]] *[[East Norway]] *[[Denmark]] *[[United Kingdom]] {{usableregion}} {{geo|60.887778|6.723611|zoom=6}} {{IsPartOf|Norway}} 17qc49toe8g1p1em8c7v7toz8y5s7cc 5090736 5090729 2025-07-10T12:19:51Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Opinions are OK on this site per [[Wikivoyage:Be fair]]. Feel free to redelete if you believe the statement is not accurate, not merely an opinion. Undo revision [[Special:Diff/5090729|5090729]] by [[Special:Contributions/188.95.246.8|188.95.246.8]] ([[User talk:188.95.246.8|talk]]) 5090736 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|West Norway banner.jpg|caption=Fjords and coast near Molde}} '''[http://www.fjordnorway.com/en/ Western Norway]''', ''Vestlandet'', is a region of [[Norway]] with 1.3 million citizens, famous for its fjords and mountainous sceneries. [[Bergen]] and [[Stavanger]] are dominant cities. There are [[Fjords of Norway|fjords all along Norway's]] endless coast, but in West Norway fjords are particularly long, steep and deep. {{quote|Vestlandet, Norway, is 'Oh My God' Country|author=''New York Times''}} ==Regions== Counties of West Norway. {{Regionlist | regionmap=WestNorway.png | regionmaptext=Regions of West Norway | regionmapsize=350px | region1name=[[Møre og Romsdal]] | region1color=#b383b3 | region1description=Home to iconic fjords such as [[Geiranger]]. Alpine mountains rising from the sea. | region2name=[[Sogn og Fjordane]] | region2color=#71b37b | region2description=Home to the [[Sognefjord|longest and deepest fjord]], the [[Jotunheimen|highest mountains]], the [[Jostedalsbreen|largest glacier]], the longest road tunnel, the ancient churches | region3name=[[Hordaland]] | region3color=#d09440 | region3description= Enchanting, ancient [[Bergen]]. Romantic fjords of [[Hardanger]] | region4name=[[Rogaland]] | region4color=#d56d76 | region4description=Oil capital Stavanger. From lowlands with sandy beaches to wild mountains and iconic Lysefjord. }} [[Image:Stegastein2.jpg|thumb|350px|Aurlandsfjord seen from Stegastein]] {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#b383b3|title=[[Møre og Romsdal]]|wikidata=Q50627}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#71b37b|title=[[Sogn og Fjordane]]|wikidata=Q50626}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d09440|title=[[Hordaland]]|wikidata=Q50625}} {{mapshape|type=geoshape|fill=#d56d76|title=[[Rogaland]]|wikidata=Q50624}} ==Settlements== ===Cities=== *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Bergen]]|wikidata=Q26793}} &mdash; regional centre and ancient Hanseatic trading point *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Stavanger]]|wikidata=Q25416}} &mdash; Norway's petroleum capital. ===Towns and villages=== [[File:Småhus i Stavanger.jpg|thumb|Characteristic wooden buildings (Stavanger).]] *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Balestrand]]|wikidata=Q493292}} &mdash; charming village by the Sognefjord *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Florø]]|wikidata=Q1020010}} &mdash; small, charming coastal town *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Førde]]|wikidata=Q113571}} &mdash; business centre in the traditional district of Sunnfjord *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Haugesund]]|wikidata=Q109036}}&mdash; known as the "Home of the Viking Kings" because of the burial site of Harald Fairhair *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Kristiansund]]|wikidata=Q109483}} &mdash; traditional fishing port on islands in the Atlantic, known for clipfish *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Molde]]|wikidata=Q104095}} &mdash; impressive panorama and great fjord, annual jazz festival *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Måløy]]|wikidata=Q980129}} &mdash; small, coastal town on the island of Vågsøy *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Voss]]|wikidata=Q109031}} &mdash; winter sport capital of western Norway *{{marker|type=city|name=[[Ålesund]]|wikidata=Q62266}} &mdash; rebuilt in characteristic art nouveau after the 1904 devastating fire ==Other destinations== [[Image:Holmen Balestrand2.jpg|thumb|250px|Balestrand.]] *{{marker|name=[[Atlanterhavsveien]]|wikidata=Q756561}} &mdash; The Atlantic Road: National tourist route and voted to one of the world's best road trips by The Guardian *{{marker|name=[[Dovrefjell]]|wikidata=Q2100974}} &mdash; a mountainous area consisting of two large national parks (comprises also parts of [[East Norway]] and [[Trøndelag]]) * {{marker|name=[[Geiranger]]|wikidata=Q1019493}} &mdash; iconic fjord visited by several hundred cruise ships each summer *{{marker|name=[[Jostedalsbreen]]|wikidata=Q654352}} &mdash; the largest glacier on the European mainland *{{marker|name=[[Jotunheimen]]|wikidata=Q588281}} - Scandinavia's highest mountains *{{marker|name=[[Sognefjorden]]|wikidata=Q208495}} &mdash; Norway's longest fjord and deepest fjord with [[Flåm]] and [[Luster]] *{{marker|name=[[Valldal]]|wikidata=Q6514066}} &mdash; green valley among alpine mountains, connects [[Geiranger]] and Trollstigen/[[Åndalsnes]] * {{marker|name=[[Åndalsnes]]|wikidata=Q271083}} with Romsdal valley - the most alpine valley between the great fjords and the wide interior * {{marker|name=[[Stryn]]|wikidata=Q5223}} &mdash; summer ski capital, fine glaciers in next door [[Olden|Olden and Loen]] ==Understand== [[File:Haukalivatnet.JPG|thumb|Haukelivatnet lake, birthplace of the ice age theory.]] Geographically, this is the archetypal Norway. Although '''fjords''' can be found in other parts of the world, the word is Norwegian, and this is the region of Norway where the most of the iconic fjords can be found. A fjord (the "j" is pronounced like an "y" in English) is a long, narrow, deep bay, usually surrounded by equally steep mountainous terrain. In West Norway, the largest can extend 200&nbsp;km (124&nbsp;mi) inland, 1300&nbsp;m (4265&nbsp;ft) deep. The great fjords of western Norway cuts deep into the mainland and are particularly dramatic at the intersection with the high central mountains from Hardangervidda via [[Jotunheimen]] to the "alps" around [[Åndalsnes]]. Most fjords continue onshore as deep u-shaped (often gorge-like) valleys such as [[Lærdal]], [[Romsdal]], [[Sunndal]] and [[Gudvangen]], several of these valleys are home to pretty, usually very deep, lakes such as [[Olden]] and [[Eidfjord]] lakes. Note that in some areas major freshwater lakes, although not connected to the ocean, are frequently called fjords. The fjords of western Norway has been rated as the world's top tourist destination by National Geographic Magazine. In a rating of UNESCO world heritage sites, [[Geiranger]], in Møre og Romsdal and [[Gudvangen|Nærøyfjord]], in Sogn og Fjordane, also obtained top score in a survey conducted by National Geographic. Several great waterfalls can be found in Western Norway. Many of them fall directly into the famous fjords as well as along the deep valleys extending into the mountains beyond the fjords. Unique in West Norway is that these waterfalls are found in large number all across the region. One third of the world's 30 tallest waterfalls (as listed on Wikipedia) are in West Norway and most of the tall waterfalls in Europe are in this region. The only really even lowland area is [[Jæren]], the region south of Stavanger. Jæren also has long stretches of sandy beaches and is not protected by lines of islands and skerries like the rest of this extremely fragmented coast. The beaches at Jæren are popular among kiters and surfers. Other flat lowlands include a small number of islands such as Smøla and Giske. Elsewhere the terrain is in general extremely fragmented along the ocean as well as in the interior where grand fjords, green gentle valleys and steep mountains dominate. While famous for its natural landscapes, West Norway is also very rich in natural resources and an economically strong region. The rich fisheries of the North Sea and Atlantic lies just off the shores of West Norway, so does the oil and gas fields on the Norwegian continental shelf. Redundancy of water and steep mountains make West Norway ideal for hydro electric power production, supplying ample amount of electricity to industry and western cities as well as large parts of East Norway. The name "Norway" ("way to the North") originally referred to the sea lane along the coast of West Norway from somewhere around present day Stavanger and northward. In the Middle Ages West Norwegians were referred to as "nordmenn" ("men of the North" or "Norwegians"), while people of East Norway were called "austmenn" ("Men of the East"). The name "Norway" was subsequently and gradually extended to the entire territory of the present Kingdom of Norway. The southern part of West Norway (around Stavanger) is often referred to as the south-west, while the northern part (around Ålesund-Molde) is called the north-west. The theory about ice ages over Scandinavia and other parts of world was formularer in 1823 when professor Jens Esmark compared moraines across Western Norway. At Haukalivatnet lake (near Lysefjorden) there is a distinct end moraine presumably created by a prehistoric glacier. Esmark noted the similarity to moraines in front of retreating glaciers in Stryn mountains and Jostedalsbreen. Esmark's observation is one of the great discoveries in the Earth sciences. ==Talk== [[File:Reinheimen info board.jpg|thumb|Information board in English at the entrance to Reinheimen National Park, Trollstigen on [[Road 63 (Norway) ]].]] The language in West Norway is [[Norwegian phrasebook|Norwegian]], with dialects that are distinctly different from eastern dialects. Unlike most of Norway but similar to France and northern Germany, dialects in Hordaland (including Bergen) and Rogaland have a distinct guttural R-sound. Dialects further north in West Norway have a distinct "rolling R" (voiced alveolar trill) similar to Castilian (Spanish). Foreign visitors will note a difference in melody only. Written Norwegian may differ somewhat as a different standard for writing, called ''nynorsk'', is frequently used in West Norway. As in the rest of Norway, virtually everybody under 60 years of age speak or understand English. Many information signs in public places are printed in English. In tourist hot spots like Geiranger and Bergen, French and German are also common among service personnel. Don't be surprised to meet service workers that manage other languages such as Russian, Dutch, Italian or Spanish. ==Get in== ===By plane=== Bergen and Stavanger have fairly large airports and are well connected with several European cities and major Norwegian cities. There are also international flights to Haugesund, Molde and Ålesund. Small airports, with connections from Oslo and for most of them from Bergen, are located at Florø, Førde, Kristiansund, Ørsta/Volda, Sandane, Sogndal and Stord. The largest airlines are [http://www.flysas.com/ SAS] and [http://www.norwegian.no Norwegian], and for the small airports [http://www.wideroe.no Widerøe]. ===By rail=== International trains (and buses) go from Gothenburg and Stockholm in Sweden to Oslo. From Oslo, there are several lines to end stations on the West coast. Raumabanen (an arm of Dovrebanen, the Oslo-Trondheim line) runs from Dombås to [[Åndalsnes]]. Bergensbanen connects Oslo and Bergen across the mountain. The famous '''Flåmsbana''' (''[http://www.flaamsbana.no/eng/ Flåm railway]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}'') branches off Bergensbanen at Myrdal. Sørlandsbanen connects Oslo and Stavanger via Kristiansand in [[South Norway]]. ===By car=== Western Norway occupies the entire west coast south of Trondheim until the mountain passes. There are accordingly numerous domestic entrances, basically along the east-west European highways E18, E134, E16, E136 as well as [[European route E39|E39, the coastal main road]]. Travellers should also consider alternative routes (often a more scenic option) on national route 7, 15, 50, 55 and 70. ===By boat=== West Norway can be reached by [http://fjordline.com/ Fjordline ferry] from [[Hirtshals]] in [[Denmark]], to Stavanger and Bergen. Hirtshals is reached by [http://dsb.dk/ DSB] train. ==Get around== [[File:Fitjar Islands.JPG|thumb|Air transport gives a different perspective on this rugged land. Stord-Fitjar archipelago south of Bergen.]] ===By plane=== There are frequent flights between Bergen and Stavanger. There are also daily flights between Bergen and most of the airports listed in the "Get in" section. ===By boat=== Bergen is connected to many coastal towns to the north by [[Hurtigruten]] (the coastal steamer), which is a combined cargo and cruise ship (also accepts cars). North-south along the coast there are a few express passenger boats between Bergen and small towns to the north (operated by '''[http://www.norled.no/en/ Norled]'''). Villages and small towns along Sognefjorden is also connected to Bergen by these high speed catamarans. The fjord and island areas are typically best enjoyed from a boat. ===By rail=== Due to complex topography West Norway does not have an integrated rail network. The railway does however offer opportunity for scenic rides. Train is most suitable for transport between Bergen, Voss, Flåm and the mountains; transport between Stavanger, Sandnes and small towns south of Sandnes. Bergen-Voss-Flåm is included in the famous "Norway in a nutshell" tour. The scenic Raumabanen railway from Dombås to Åndalsnes is an alternative to bus or car in the Romsdalen valley. Tickets and timetables on [http://www.nsb.no/ nsb.no]. ===By bus=== West Norway has an integrated network of local and long-distance coaches covering most of the region. The bus routes seamlessly interoperate with the ferry services that they need for their routes. The bus would drive onto the ferry, passengers are asked to disembark while the bus is locked (for safety reasons) for most of the trip, and then close to the end of the ferry journey, passengers are expected to be back on board the bus. Buses will ''not'' wait for passengers who are late. Most services operate a few times every day and tickets can generally be bought on board. Nor-Way buses require an app to make the payment. Skyss buses have credit card readers. While it is possible to reserve on Skyss buses ahead of time, the ticket is only good for an hour. One can also just show up and pay on boarding. The apps for the bus service can help in remote parts of the country, where, you making the reservation, can inform drivers that they need to stop to pick someone up. Bus services can require that you reserve at least 15 mins ahead of the bus arriving, for them to stop. If you have not reserved, you may have to actively flag the bus down as soon as you see the bus approaching. Drivers have been known to drive past if signalled too late. The cost of the ferry is included in the price of your bus ticket. The ferry services generally have a cafeteria and restrooms onboard so this works out well on long bus journeys. Vegetarians and vegans might have very few options here. Most coach services are listed on the [http://www.nor-way.no/ Nor-Way Bussexpress website], who also operate the majority of long-distance routes. A number of long and medium distances services in the region are also provided by [http://www.fjord1.no/ Fjord 1], and other operators run further services - not all of which are listed with Nor-way, so do your research. In [[Møre og Romsdal]] county there is also the Timeekspressen connecting main towns (Volda-Ålesund-Molde-Kristiansund) by hourly departures. There is a new long-distance coach connecting Stavanger with Bergen (Haugesund and Leirvik/Stord) in only 5 hours. It can only be booked online at [http://nettbuss.no/ekspressbuss/bus4you Nettbuss] with tickets starting at 249 kr. The bus service provide Wifi, power outlet, wc, air condition and luxurious chairs. The bus schedule can be found [http://nettbuss.no/www/resources/nbno/c/ca1d3153a1cf0ed998d4879fbb50d9ab.pdf here] Many bus journeys in the region are spectacular experiences in themselves, such as the [[Sognefjellet]] route between [[Sogndal]] and [[Lom (Norway)|Lom]]. Bus connections can be searched on [http://www.rutebok.no/ rutebok.no]. [[File:Ferjekø (8337).jpg|thumb|250px|A large number of ferries connect roads in the very fragmented western area.]] ===By car=== [[File:Sogn og Fjordane Laerdalstunnel 5.JPG|thumb|Lærdal tunnel at 25 km is the world's longest road tunnel. The tunnel is an attraction as such including the "blue caves" that breaks the boredom of the drive.]] {{moreinfo|driving|Driving in Norway|European route E39}} {{see also|European route E39}} Most of West Norway is sparsely populated with limited public transport, and a car provides superior freedom and flexibility for the traveler. Because some roads are narrow and steep (not shown on most road maps), travellers are advised to calculate plenty of time for driving and not to rush as this increases risk of accident. Ferries are an integral part of the road network and trips across West Norway often involve ferries. [[European route E39]] is the main road through western Norway, the E39 is perhaps Norway's most complex road with some 100 tunnels and seven ferry crossings. Norway has well over 1,000 road tunnels, a majority of them are in Western Norway and the area has five of the world's 25 longest road tunnels (Lærdal, Gudvanga, Jondal, Folgefonna and Ryfylke tunnels). Driving in tunnels is generally very safe and Norwegians don't slow down for tunnels. '''Car ferries''' on the main roads are rather frequent (typically every half hour), extremely reliable and operate with reserve capacity. Except for the popular Geiranger-Hellesylt and Gudvangen-Kaupanger ferries, tourists generally need not worry about time tables and reservations. Travelers are however recommended to calculate plenty of time for trips involving car ferries. Buses, ambulances and livestock transport have priority. On most crossings, ferries have cafeteria selling coffee, beverages, sandwiches and some hot food. Some older diesel powered vessels have been replaced by ferries running on natural gas. Across Sognefjorden there is even one running on batteries, the MF «Ampere», the world's first such ferry. Nature is the main sight in West Norway, and travelers are advised not to rush from town to town, but should instead calculate plenty of time for the road, and to stop at suitable scenic places. ==See== [[Image:View of Bryggen - Bergen, Norway.jpg|thumb|250px|Bryggen in Bergen]] [[File:Alesund - Aksla - Fjellstua.jpg|thumb|250px|Central [[Ålesund]].]] ===Fjords=== {{moreinfo|fjords in Norway|Fjords of Norway}} In Western Norway there are fjords everywhere, the visitor can't miss them. While fjords vary somewhat, their appearance is largely the same all over the area: The wildest part of the fjords are the middle section and eastern (far) end, the mouth at the ocean is generally more mellow (lower mountains and wider gaps). The entire area is however very rugged and fragmented (except the [[Jæren]] flatlands south of Stavanger). Some of the main fjords of Western Norway: * Boknafjorden with [[Ryfylke]] and Lysefjorden with iconic Pulpit rock and Kjerag * [[Hardanger]]fjord - the romantic fruit garden * [[Sognefjord]] - Norway's longest, deepest and most complex fjord system * Nordfjord including Stryn and [[Olden]] * Storfjord with [[Hjørundfjord]] and [[Geiranger]]fjord * Romsdalsfjord with [[Molde]] and [[Åndalsnes]] * Sunndalsfjord/Tingvollfjord east of [[Kristiansund]] *The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord (by [[Geiranger]]) and Nærøyfjord (by [[Gudvangen]] and [[Flåm]]). ===Nature=== [[File:Steinsdalsfossen.jpg|thumb|West Norway has countless waterfalls]] * Glaciers, several places ([[Ullensvang#See|Folgefonna]], [[Jostedalsbreen]], [[Hardangervidda|Hardangerjøkulen]]) * Waterfalls in large numbers, for instance Låtefossen waterfall in [[Ullensvang]], as well as many of the world's tallest waterfalls. * Preikestolen (The pulpit rock) by Stavanger. * Trollveggen and Trollstigen at [[Åndalsnes]] ===Man made sights=== * Bryggen, the old Hanseatic docks in Bergen * Flåm railway in [[Flåm]] * The [[Sognefjellet]] mountain pass. ==Do== *Fishing. Endless possibilities along the coast, in the fjords and in lakes. *Glacier walks on Jostedalsbreen and Folgefonna (with guide only) *Hiking. Several possibilities, among them [[Hardangervidda]] and [[Jotunheimen]]. *Skiing in Voss. *Skiing, in summertime, in [[Stryn]] or Folgefonna *Sleep in a mountain cabin. [http://www.turistforeningen.no/english/cabin.php?fo_id=6469&search_string=&action=Search&lo_id=NO_vest&ca_owner=&ca_service%5B%5D=B&ca_service%5B%5D=S&ca_service%5B%5D=U&ca_type%5B%5D=D&ca_type%5B%5D=P The Norwegian Trekking Association]{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} operates 110 cabins scattered across the region. ==Eat== {{see also|Nordic cuisine}} There are various high class dining facilities in West Norway. See articles for each town. Specialities are plentiful. * Try Norwegian seafood! ==Drink== [[File:Gravensteiner äpplen i korg.jpeg|thumb|Apples like ''Gravenstein'' are used for cider.]] When in this area, the local brand of bottled water is called ''Olden''. ''Hansa'' brewery is the major beverages provider. The company also produces the arguably best Norwegian-owned beer. It's safe to drink tap water in Norway as the water is among the cleanest in the world. You should therefore avoid drinking bottle water as it is not good for the environment. Inner fjord areas such as Hardanger, Sognefjord and Valldal have long apple growing traditions. There are many cider producers in the area some of these ciders are of high quality and match fine white wine from central Europe and the best cider internationally. Norwegian cider is typically fresh, aromatic and dry. Ciders rich in tannins and with a more bitter taste are less common. Ciders can be light sparkling or still. Most cider producers accept visitors and sell by the bottle. ==Stay safe== West Norway is as safe as the rest of Norway (see general information on Norway). In western Norway there are several roads with very narrow stretches where even small cars can not pass easily. Be extremely careful around blind corners on these roads. Stick to your side of the road! While roads may look dangerous, there are few accidents on these roads. Show respect for the sea. Every year tourists die in small rented boats; usually having gone out in bad weather. Waves coming in from the Atlantic can be extremely powerful, but even in what seems like sheltered waters the wind can capsize a small boat. ==Go next== *[[Trøndelag]] *[[East Norway]] *[[Denmark]] *[[United Kingdom]] {{usableregion}} {{geo|60.887778|6.723611|zoom=6}} {{IsPartOf|Norway}} s2oq3xoqyz283tufqll3ubumdoeln5q 0 39097 5091142 4969147 2025-07-11T01:57:02Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091142 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg|pgname=Weston}}'''Weston''' is the most western city in [[Broward County]], [[Florida]]. Located in tropical [[South Florida]], Weston is a picturesque city with many parks, shops, hotels and resorts, golf courses, and restaurants. It has a thriving shopping and dining hub, which is called the Weston Town Center. == Understand == <mapframe latitude="26.104425" longitude="-80.406876" zoom="11" width="266" height="205" align="right">{ "type": "FeatureCollection", "features": [ { "type": "Feature", "properties": {}, "geometry": { "type": "Polygon", "coordinates": [ [ [ -80.362586, 26.125488 ], [ -80.362677, 26.115484 ], [ -80.362755, 26.10814 ], [ -80.362749, 26.107857 ], [ -80.362348, 26.107669 ], [ -80.362313, 26.106575 ], [ -80.362305, 26.105885 ], [ -80.362468, 26.105142 ], [ -80.362511, 26.1023 ], [ -80.362048, 26.102315 ], [ -80.362322, 26.095057 ], [ -80.362019, 26.080721 ], [ -80.362642, 26.080753 ], [ -80.36229, 26.07276 ], [ -80.362012, 26.063203 ], [ -80.397377, 26.062332 ], [ -80.421437, 26.061703 ], [ -80.442971, 26.061608 ], [ -80.443964, 26.112619 ], [ -80.449841, 26.140828 ], [ -80.44782, 26.145002 ], [ -80.435968, 26.144812 ], [ -80.362547, 26.127098 ], [ -80.362586, 26.125488 ] ] ] } } ] }</mapframe> A master-planned community, Weston incorporated as a city in 1996. ==Get in== Weston is accessible by car, by bicycle, and by bus. Interstate 75 passes through the city and Interstate 595 ends at the Weston's border with Davie and Sunrise (the interchange of I-75, I-595, and the Sawgrass Expressway). State Road 84 also passes through and serves the city. Weston features many bicycle paths. Broward County Transit operates bus routes which travel through and serve the city. ==Get around== === By car === Weston has a well-developed street network which enables vehicular travel around the city. === By bicycle === Weston features many bicycle paths, which enable safe cycling throughout the city and thus make riding a bicycle an appealing option for getting around Weston. === By bus === Broward County Transit operates bus routes which travel through and serve the city. These bus routes connect to various places in the parts of the city where the bus routes travel through. ==See== === Landscaping === Weston's streets are picturesque and park-like, and are lined with trees, hedges, and flowers. It is a landscape architect's dream community. === Parks === [[File:LibraryParkEntrance - panoramio.jpg|thumb|The entrance to Library Park.]] Weston features many parks of all sizes, and with varying amenities. ==Do== Weston is home to the Bonaventure Golf Club and the Weston Hills Country Club. Both feature massive golf courses and make for excellent golf outings. ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{sleep | name=Japan Inn II | url= | email= | address=1798 Market St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 954 424-8855 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= |lastedit=2022-01-30| content=A Japanese restaurant located at the Weston Town Center. }} * {{Eat|name=Bonefish Grill|url=https://locations.bonefishgrill.com/florida/weston/4545-weston-road|address=4545 Weston Rd|phone=+1 954-389-9273|hours=M-Th 11AM-10PM, F Sa 11AM-11PM, Su 11AM-9PM|lastedit=2024-04-10}} * {{Eat|name=Little Hen|url=https://www.little-hen.com/|email=hi@littlehen.com|address=4579 Weston Rd|phone=+1 954 626-0855|hours=M-F 8AM-3PM, Sa Su 8AM-4PM|lastedit=2024-04-10|content=Smart Chic Dress Code: no tank tops, sportswear, and beachwear. Men are not to wear flip flop/sports sandal. Dress sandals are allowed.}} * {{Eat|name=Panera Bread|url=https://www.panerabread.com/en-us/cafe/locations/fl/weston/4547-weston-road|address=4547 Weston Rd|phone=+1 9543851560|hours=M-Sa 6:30AM-9PM, Su 7AM-9PM|lastedit=2024-04-10}} ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Vacation Village at Weston | alt= | url=https://vacationvillageresorts.com/vacation_village_weston/index.html | email= | address=16461 Racquet Club Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 954 217 0162 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-01-30 | content=A timeshare resort featuring a massive pool, a hot tub, and a kiddie pool, along with other amenities like a café, a gift shop, and a fitness center. }}[[File:Vacation Village at Weston, Weston, Florida February 20, 2022.jpg|thumb|Vacation Village at Weston in February 2022]] * {{sleep | name=Vacation Village at Bonaventure | alt= | url=https://vacationvillageresorts.com/vacation_village_bonaventure/index.html | email= | address=16461 Racquet Club Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 954 384 9445 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-01-30 | content=A sister timeshare resort to Vacation Village at Weston, with many units overlooking the Bonaventure Golf Club. }} * {{sleep | name=Mizner Place at Weston Town Center | alt=Mizner Place | url=https://vacationvillageresorts.com/mizner_place/index.html | email= | address=1775 Bonaventure Blvd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 954 385 3650 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-01-30 | content=A sister timeshare resort to both Vacation Village at Weston and Vacation Village at Bonaventure. Mizner Place is located at the popular Weston Town Center, which has many shops and restaurants. }} * {{Sleep|name=Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Weston|url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/fllwc-courtyard-fort-lauderdale-weston/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0|address=2000 N Commerce Pkwy|phone=+1 9543432225|checkin=3PM|checkout=noon|price=$141 per night for a single room|lastedit=2024-04-12}} == Stay safe == Weston is a very safe place to visit at all hours of the day and night. Should emergency assistance of any type be needed, the number for emergency services, as in the rest of the United States, is 911. == Stay healthy == As is typical across tropical South Florida, the summers in Weston are extremely hot and humid. Be sure to remain hydrated at all times to avoid heat-related injuries. The Cleveland Clinic Hospital is located within Weston. ==Connect== ==Go next== * [[Davie]] * [[Southwest Ranches]] * [[Sunrise]] {{routebox | image1=I-75.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Tampa]] | minorl1=[[Big Cypress National Preserve]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Miami]] | minorr1=[[Sunrise]] → [[File:I-595.svg|18px]] to [[Fort Lauderdale]] | image2=US 27.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=N | minorl2=Belle Glade | directionr2=S | majorr2=[[Miami]] | minorr2=[[Pembroke Pines]] }} {{geo|26.107500|-80.388056}} {{IsPartOf|Broward County}} {{outlinecity}} h8j91uekfpgjxlxnf4senqg1c37tsx3 0 39352 5090924 4608563 2025-07-10T15:29:27Z Vitsuha 2237815 /* Get in */ 5090924 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg|pgname=Williamstown}} '''Williamstown''' is a town in the [[Berkshires]] at the northwest corner of [[Massachusetts]]. It shares a border with [[New York (state)|New York]] and [[Vermont]]. It is a true college town, having hosted Williams College since 1793. ==Understand== [[File:Williamstown, MA - View along Route 2.JPG|thumb|View along Route 2 in Williamstown]] Williamstown is a lovely historic town that's well worth a visit. There are quite a few tasteful 18th-, 19th- and early 20th-century buildings, on and off campus. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}} {{mapshape}} *From the South or West: From I-87, take Exit 6; drive 45 minutes east on NY/MA Rt. 2 into Williamstown. *From Taconic Parkway: Take NY Rt. 295 East to NY Rt. 22 North to NY Rt. 43 East (which becomes MA Rt. 43 North) to US Rt. 7 North into Williamstown. *From the North (Vermont): Follow US Rt. 7 South to Williamstown. *From the East ([[Boston]]): Take Mass. Pike (I-90) to Exit 2 (Lee); US Rt. 20 West. This will merge with US Rt. 7 North, which you follow into Williamstown. There is a bus direct from Port Authority ([[New York City]]) that takes about 5 hours, provided by Peter Pan Bus lines. ==Get around== Williamstown is a small town, and most locations are reachable on foot. For further trips to [[Vermont]] or neighboring [[North Adams]], you're best off with a car, although local public transportation can get you around too. Buses run infrequently, so plan well. The Berkshire Regional Transit Authority webpage, with schedules, is [http://www.berkshireplanning.org/3/2/4/ at this link] {{dead link|August 2020|December 2020}}. ==See== Aside from the following museums, you can enjoy walking around downtown Williamstown, looking at the outsides of buildings and walking into some of them, such as churches, if you visit when they are open. [[File:Spring Street, Williamstown MA.jpg|thumb|View down Spring St.]] * {{see | name=Williams College Museum of Art | alt= | url=https://artmuseum.williams.edu | email= | address=15 Lawrence Hall Dr | lat=42.711194 | long=-73.202694 | directions= | phone=+1 413 597-2429 | tollfree= | fax=+1 413 458-9017 | hours=W-Sa 10AM-5PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q12072937 | lastedit=2021-11-25 | content=Ste 2. One of the finest college art museums in the country with over 10,000 pieces, including a significant collection of Prendergast paintings, a Sol De Witt installation, and paintings by Hopper and Warhol in the permanent collection. WCMA's building was once the Williams College library and features a unique octagonal rotunda. }} * {{see | name=Clark Art Institute | alt= | url=http://www.clarkart.edu/ | email= | address=225 South Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-2303 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 11AM-5PM | price=Adult $20, under 18 free | wikidata=Q1465805 | lastedit=2020-09-06 | content=An excellent museum with over 30 paintings by Renoir and canvases by Monet and Pissarro in their collection. In 1950 Sterling and Francine Clark chartered the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute as a home for their extensive art collection. Opened to public in 1955, the Institute has built upon this extraordinary group of works to become one of the most beloved and respected art museums in the world, known for its intimate galleries and stunning natural environment. One of the few institutions in the United States that combines a public art museum with a complement of research and academic programs, including a major art history library, the Clark is now a leading international center for research and discussion on the nature of art and art history. }} ==Do== [[File:Severance Block, Williamstown MA.jpg|thumb|Severance Block]] *'''Hiking: Pine Cobble''' There are countless hikes in the Williamstown area, but one of the most popular is certainly Pine Cobble. The Williams Outing Club publishes the North Berkshire Trails guide, available at Water Street Books (26 Water Street, {{phone|+1 413 458-8071}}), the local bookstore, for $12. A trail description of Pine Cobble is available [http://wso.williams.edu/orgs/woc/index.php?page=Pine_Cobble here]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}. The trail (estimated time: 1 hour) climbs a hill north of Williamstown overlooking the Purple Valley and arrives at an expanse of quartzite rock exposed by glaciers long ago. * {{do | name=Lansing Chapman Skating Rink at Williams College | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 597-2433 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Latham Street. Call for hours. }} * {{do | name=Williams College Tennis Courts | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 597-3151 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Lynde Lane. Call for reservations. }} * {{do | name=Williamstown Theatre Festival | alt= | url=http://www.wtfestival.org | email=wtfinfo@wtfestival.org | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 413 597-3400 or +1 413 458-3200 (Sep-May) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= Late Jun-Aug. The Williamstown Theatre Festival (WTF) is a renowned festival that presents around two hundred plays, both classic and new productions, every summer on its stages, in addition to readings, workshops, and other special events. The festival was founded in 1954 and since then, a number of productions have gone to Broadway, Off-Broadway, and to theatres around the US. Roger Rees is WTF's artistic director, whom some television viewers may know as Lord John Marbury, the British Ambassador on the television show "The West Wing." Notable actors who have acted at WTF include Gwyneth Paltrow, Blythe Danner, Olympia Dukakis, Christopher Reeve, Marisa Tomei, Ron Rifkin, Richard Chamberlain, and Chris O'Donnell. }} ===Golf=== * {{do | name=Taconic Golf Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=19 Meacham St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-3997 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Apr 15-Nov 15. Semi-private, 18 holes. A beautiful golf course, particularly in autumn when the leaves change. Trivia: Jack Nicklaus shot his first hole-in-one at the national junior championships on the Taconic's 14th hole (a small stone marker indicates the spot). In winter, the golf course is a favorite local cross-country skiing location. }} * {{do | name=Waubeeka Golf Links | alt= | url=http://www.waubeeka.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-8355 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Route 7. Public, 18 holes. Apr 1-Dec 1. Make reservations:. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== [[File:Hopkins Hall Williams College.jpg|thumb|Hopkins Hall, Williams College]] * {{eat | name=1896 House Pub | alt= | url=http://www.1896house.com | email=celebrate@1896house.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-1896 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Rt. 7. Daily 5PM to close. Pub food. }} * {{eat | name=Chef's Hat Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=905 Simonds Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-5120 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-F 6:30AM-2PM, Sa 6:30AM-3PM, Su 7AM-3PM | price= | content= Great breakfast place. }} * {{eat | name=Chopstick's Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=412 Main Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-5750 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 10:30AM-10:30PM; F Sa 10:30AM-11PM; Su 11AM-10:30PM | price= | content= Fine Japanese, Korean, Chinese. }} *{{eat | name=Colonial Pizza | url=http://www.colonialpizza.com | email= | address=243 Main St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 413 458-4009 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-W 11AM-1AM, F Sa 11AM-2AM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Coyote Flaco | alt= | url=http://www.mycoyoteflaco.com/williamstownma.html | email= | address=505 Cold Spring Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-4240 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Th 4PM-10PM; F Sa 4-11PM | price= | content= Mexican/Spanish. Margaritas! }} * {{eat | name=Cozy Corner Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=850 Simonds Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-3854 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 11AM-9PM; Sa 11:30AM-9PM; Su noon-9PM | price= | content=(Rte. 7). Seafood, Italian. }} *{{eat | name=Dining Halls | url=http://www.williams.edu/admin/dining/about/releases/?pr=2 | email= | address=Williams College | lat= | long= | directions=Williams College Campus | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=3-12 | content=The dining halls at Williams College seem to be open to everybody. There are three dining halls: Driscoll, Whitmans (Paresky), and Mission. Follow the link for menus and hours. All except Whitmans are all-you-can-eat buffets. These cost $12 for dinner and $7 for lunch. At Whitmans you can buy different courses separately, but the most expensive will only be $12 as well. At night, there is a snackbar in Paresky, and every night except Sunday and Monday there is pizza in the basement for $7 (really good). }} * {{eat | name=Gala (formerly Yasmin's Restaurant) | alt= | url=http://www.orchardshotel.com | email= | address=222 Adams Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-9611 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Breakfast 7AM-10AM, lunch noon-2PM, dinner 5:30PM-9PM, Su brunch 10AM-2PM. Beautiful courtyard/garden setting. Gourmet cuisine and great wine list. }} *'''Happy Star Chinese Restaurant''', 240A Main St., M-Th 10:30AM-10:30PM; F Sa 10:30AM-11PM; Su 11AM-10:30PM. * {{eat | name=Hobson's Choice | alt= | url= | email= | address=159 Water Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-9101 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 5-9:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Jae's Inn | alt= | url=http://www.jaesinn.com/userPage_47_Restaurant.htm {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address=1111 South State Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 664-0100 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Lunch M-Sa 11:30AM-4PM, Su noon-4PM; dinner Su-Th 5-9PM, F Sa 5-10PM | price= | content= Korean. Japanese. }} * {{eat | name=Mezze Bistro & Bar | alt= | url=http://www.mezzeinc.com | email=nancy@mezzeinc.com | address=16 Water Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-0123 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Dinner daily 5PM. Excellent choice with imaginative offerings. $19-$24. }} * {{eat | name=Michael's Restaurant | alt= | url=http://hometown.aol.com/CNIKITAS/index.html | email= | address=460 Main Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-2114 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 4-9PM | price= | content=(Route 2). Homemade Italian and Greek. }} * {{eat | name=Moonlight Diner & Grille | alt= | url=http://www.MoonlightDiner.com | email= | address=408 Main Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-3305 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(Route 2). Su-W 7AM-10PM; Th until 11PM; F Sa until midnight. Breakfast all day. }} * {{eat | name=Pappa Charlie's Deli | alt= | url= | email= | address=28 Spring Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-5969 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 8AM-8PM; Su 8AM-7PM | price= | content= Best sandwich place. }} * {{eat | name=Pera Mediterranean Bistro | alt= | url=http://perabistro.com/ | email= | address=60 Spring St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 413 458-8676 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-W 11AM-9PM; Th-Sa 11AM-10PM | price=Apps: $6.95-13.95; salad plates: $8.95-12.95; pasta: $13.95-19.95; sandwiches and wraps: $9.95-14.95; entrees: $16.95-27.50; dessert: $5.95-7.95 | lastedit=2015-05-30 | content=This place provides excellent food made from fresh ingredients in generous portions, with good service, and refills tea without charge. The menu is really not as expensive as these prices make it seem, because main dishes include soup or a side salad and the separate salad plates are big for one person. The wine list also is quite inexpensive, with bottles between $19.50 and $49.00, quite a few of which are toward the low end of that range. }} * {{eat | name=Spice Root Modern Indian Cuisine | alt= | url= | email= | address=23 Spring Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-5200 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Lunch: Tu-Sa 11:30AM-2:30PM, Su noon-3PM; dinner: Su Tu-Th 5-10PM, F Sa 5-11PM. Fine Indian. Vegetarian available. }} * {{eat | name=Sushi Thai Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address=27 Spring Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-0004 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Lunch daily 11:30AM-10PM, dinner daily 5-10PM. Thai/Japanese. }} * {{eat | name=The Water Street Grill | alt= | url= | email= | address=123 Water Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-2175 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Th 11:30AM-midnight, F-Su 11:30AM-1AM | price= | content=(Route 43). }} * {{eat | name=The Williams Inn | alt= | url=http://www.williamsinn.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-9371 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the Green, Jct. Routes 2 & 7. Daily 7AM to 10PM;10PMbrunch 11:30AM - 2PM. A la carte. Also a Tavern with casual food. Has ''the'' Sunday brunch. }} ==Drink== [[File:Sherman Burbank Memorial Chapel, Williamstown MA.jpg|thumb|Sherman Burbank Memorial Chapel]] * {{drink | name=The Red Herring | alt= | url= | email= | address=46 Spring Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 413-458-2808 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open every day. Located underneath the movie theater in town, it's a cozy location to grab a beer after class. Dancing usually occurs on Thursdays, upstairs. }} *{{drink | name=Waterstreet Grill | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=see above under food. Much classier (and more expensive) than the Red Herring. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Williams College - President's House.JPG|thumb|Williams College President's House]] ===Hotels=== *{{sleep | name=Howard Johnson Express Inn | url=http://www.hojowt.com {{dead link|June 2020|December 2020}} | email= | address=213 Main Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 413-458-8158 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | content=Jacuzzi Rooms, Business Center, Free wireless Internet Access, Free Breakfast, Outside Pool, Free Parking, TV with cable HBO, Near to Williams College. }} * {{sleep | name=The Orchards Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.orchardshotel.com | email=hoteladmin@orchardshotel.com | address=222 Adams Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 413 458-9611 | tollfree=+1 800-225-1517 | fax= | price=$170-325 | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Williams Inn | alt= | url=http://www.williamsinn.com | email=innkeeper@williamsinn.com | address=On the Green, Jct. Rtes. 2 & 7 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +1 413 458-9371 | tollfree=+1-800-828-0133 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$140-280 | lastedit=2015-05-30 | content= }} ===Motels=== *{{sleep | name=Howard Johnson Express Inn | url=http://www.hojowt.com {{dead link|June 2020|December 2020}} | email= | address=213 Main Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +1 413-458-8158 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=$49-225 | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | content=Jacuzzi rooms, business center, free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, outside pool, free parking, TV with cable HBO. 37 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=1896 House - Brookside and Pondside | alt= | url=http://www.1896house.com | email=celebrate@1896house.com | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Route 7 | phone=+1 413 458-1896 | tollfree=+1-888-999-1896 | fax= | price=$69-219 | checkin= | checkout= | content=30 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Berkshire Hills Motel | alt= | url=http://www.berkshirehillsmotel.com | email=info@berkshirehillsmotel.com | address=1146 Cold Spring Road | lat= | long= | directions=Route 7 | phone=+1 413 458-3950 | tollfree=+1-800-388-9677 | fax= | price=$69-159 | checkin= | checkout= | content=21 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Cozy Corner Motel | alt= | url=http://www.cozycornermotel.com | email=ccmotel@aol.com | address=284 Sand Springs Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-8006 | tollfree= | fax= | price=$50-125 | checkin= | checkout= | content=(Route 7). 12 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Green Valley Motel | alt= | url= | email=GreenValleyMTL@aol.com | address=1214 Simonds Road | lat= | long= | directions=Route 7 | phone =+1 413 458-3864 | tollfree= | fax= | price=$40-85 | checkin= | checkout= | content=10 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Maple Terrace Motel | alt= | url=http://www.mapleterrace.com | email=stay@mapleterrace.com | address=555 Main Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-9677 | tollfree= | fax= | price= $55-145 | checkin= | checkout= | content=17 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=Northside Motel | alt= | url=http://www.northsidemotel.com | email=northside@bcn.net | address=45 North Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone =+1 413 458-8107 | tollfree= | fax= | price=$49-139 | checkin= | checkout= | content=33 rooms. }} * {{sleep | name=The Stratton Inn of Williamstown | alt= | url=http://strattoninnwilliamstown.com {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=strattoninn@gmail.com | address=62 Stratton Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 843 270-6157 | tollfree= | fax= | price=$179-229 | checkin= | checkout= | content=2 suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Villager Motel | alt= | url=http://www.williamstownvillager.com {{dead link|December 2020}} | email=vivek@berkshire.net | address=953 Simonds Road | lat= | long= | directions=Route 7 | phone =+1 413 458-4046 | tollfree=+1-877-98-MOTEL | fax= | price=$46-135 | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} ==Connect== [[File:US Post Office, Williamstown MA.jpg|thumb|Williamstown Post Office]] ==Go next== There is a Peter Pan bus to [[New York City]] on Sundays that costs $45. Buy tickets at the Williams Inn. Leaves at 4PM. You can take the Berkshire Transport to [[Pittsfield]] (about 20 minutes south) for many more transportation options, including a train. The bus to New York City also stops in Pittsfield. If you are a student at Williams then log onto WSO and check out the rideboard. {{routebox | image1=US 7.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Rutland (Vermont)|Rutland]] | minorl1=[[Bennington]] | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Pittsfield]] | minorr1=[[Lanesborough]] | image2=MA Route 2.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Troy (New York)|Troy]] | minorl2='''Becomes [[Image:NY-2.svg|18px]]''' | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Greenfield (Massachusetts)|Greenfield]] | minorr2=[[North Adams]] }} {{geo|42.711944|-73.204167}} {{isPartOf|Berkshires}} {{usablecity}} 3g2rdcvurw0ujqkq9jhbnfk9y5erd8h 0 40015 5091161 5053266 2025-07-11T02:55:03Z DaGizza 162256 /* Trekking */ 5091161 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mena-asia_default_banner.jpg}} '''Yelagiri''' (also spelt '''Elagiri''' on some signboards) is a town in [[Tamil Nadu]], a state in the south of [[India]]. [[File:Yelagiri Hill.jpg|thumbnail|Yelagiri Hills]] [[File:Yelagiri Lake.jpg|thumbnail|Yelagiri Lake]] [[File:01Yelagiri Hills.jpg|thumbnail|Paddy fields at Yelagiri Hills]] [[File:Nature Park 1 Yelagiri.jpg|thumbnail|Wild flowers at Yelagiri hills]] [[File:Road to Yelagiri.jpg|thumbnail|A truck climbing the hairpin road up the Yelagiri hills]] Yelagiri, at a height of 920 metres above sea level, stands majestically amidst four mountains. This is a [[Hill stations in India|hill station]] with a salubrious climate prevailing throughout the year so that winters do not keep visitors away. The main inhabitants of the area are the tribals who live in the 14 small villages which comprise Yelagiri. These tribals are engaged in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, etc. - all the occupations of rural hill folk. Their customs and habits, and especially the structure of their houses is unique and attracts a number of tourists to this hill station. ==Get in== ===By car=== There are no petrol stations in Yelagiri, thus you have to fill up the tank at the last available petrol station in the plains (however, try to avoid HP petrol bunk in Poneri because they don't give pure petrol). Except for a few tire changers there are no vehicle repair shops in the hills. Also, take your first-aid kit along with your regular medicines, if any, with you. There is a government primary health centre, and a private clinic (in which the doctor is from CMC vellore). The nearest health centre is in Tirupattur. ====From [[Bangalore]]==== Yelagiri is about 150 km from Bangalore and 250 km from Chennai (Madras), good for a four hour bike ride with breaks along the way. Take the NH7 out of Bangalore towards Hosur, turn towards Chennai (onto NH46) at Krishnagiri and continue until you get just before Vaniyambadi. You can see the Hills from quite a distance (on your right). From a break in the highway that comes approx 2 km after the toll gate, turn right into the underpass road that takes you to Tirupathur. Continue some 5 km and at Ponneri Junction take a left to Yelagiri Hills. The routes are all marked with signboards in English. ====From [[Chennai]]==== Yelagiri is about 258 km from [[Chennai-Tambaram]]. Take the Poonamalee High Road out of the city to [[Ponamalee]] Town. From Poonamalee, take the Bangalore highway towards Vellore. The distance to Vellore is about 140 km and the route passes through Sriperumbudur, Walajapet. [[Vellore]] would be a good place to plan a break, there are a lot of eating places right on the highway. From Vellore continue on to Ambur and then towards Vaniyambadi. On the highway about 45 km from the third(counting from Chennai) toll station, watch out for a signboard for "Elagiri - 22 km". Take a left at this exit. It's easy to miss this left and if you overshoot this you would reach the Vaniyambadi toll station in about 1km. Continue on this road (SH18) till you reach Ponneri junction which has Thirupathur straight and Yelagiri on the left. Watch out for this one as it is easy to miss. (On the left, you'll see a big sign board 'Tamilnadu Tourism Department Welcomes You'. Turn left at this junction, there's a sign board pointing towards Yelagiri.) The roads are well punctuated with signboards in English, and the roads especially the Chennai-Vaniyambadi stretch are excellent (in 2007). It is fairly safe, watch out for the occasional truck that changes lanes abruptly. The last petrol pump is after you turn left at Ponneri, a little before you start on the ghat section. There are no petrol pumps on the hills. There are 14 hairpin bends on the ghat road from Ponneri to Yelagiri and the road is pretty narrow so you can't actually park a car to enjoy the view except at some of the wider hairpin bends. Bikes won't have this problem though. ===By train=== If you are coming by train from [[Bangalore]], [[Chennai]] or [[Coimbatore]] you have to get down at Jolarpettai Junction. ===Public transport=== If you prefer to take public transport, buses come from Thirupattur and Jolarpet. You can take a taxi also from these places. You can negotiate for about ₹1200 (2011) to drop you in Yelagiri Hills from Jolarpettai Junction. ==Get around== As for getting around you may have to make your own arrangements for commuting in the hills. There are auto-rickshaws and a few taxis for hire, but it is a great place for trekkers. Each village has a Murugar Temple, small and big. At Nilavoor there is a Devi temple for Kadavu-Nachiyar, which opens for puja only on Fridays between 11AM and noon. The villagers around believe this Goddess is very powerful and throng the place in good numbers on Fridays. ==See== There are 14 hairpin bends named after Tamil poets (Pari Valaivu, Ori Valaivu, Kamban Valaivu, etc.); they lead to the Yelagiri Hills. There is a sort of an observatory, after 12th bend with a telescope pointing towards the plains. It is difficult to park a car here owing to the narrow roads. Bikes should be fine. On the way to the hills, you can see lots of small animals like monkeys, oxen, goats, etc. Do not feed these animals as they can be dangerous. Don't forget to carry binoculars with you. * {{see | name=Don Bosco Centre | alt= | url=http://guezou.org | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Yellagiri Hills. Fr. Guezou, who is the founder of this Don Bosco Center has come from France and has been helping the poor people for many years. This center helps the poor and illterate youth to identify their future by providing IT education. They have the IGNOU Study center, IT Training Center and Software Development Center. }} ==Do== ====Trekking==== * '''Swami Malai''', (not to be confused with the town of Swamimalai, near Kumbakonam) the highest peak, soaring to 4,338 ft from Mangalam, a hamlet at its base, takes the cake. It's an easy climb of about an hour with infrequent breaks (about a 1000-foot climb). Smaller peaks like Javadu Hills, Palamathi Hills and others are an easier climb. Start early though and be back before 9AM, for once the sun climbs up it can get rather uncomfortable. *'''Jalagamparai Waterfalls''' - a 5-km trek from Yelagiri downhill. It's a tough trek, but the view from the sides of the mountain, of the valley, is truly rewarding. Winter and April-May are probably not good times to visit the falls, as there may be no water this time of the year. The tourist taxi operator may give you false information that there has been rain in this area and there may be water in the falls. His objective is to get money for the number of kilometres he runs the vehicle and not tourists' interest and pleasure. Just check this with somebody before you make a trip to this place. Otherwise it is a wasted trip. Especially if you go in the hot sun between 10AM to 12:30PM you will get headache. At the same time if one is interested in seeing the villages and the green pastures it may be fine. Next to the falls there is a temple at the top. * '''Uphill''' for 4 km can be fun when in groups. Don’t forget to carry water, you will not find a drop of water to drink once you reach the hilltop. You can see the clouds touching the lush green hills in early morning- an amazing sight. Make sure you wear sneakers as the trek can be a treacherous climb. You can hire locals from the village to help you as guide on your trek for around ₹300. It takes 2-3 hr to climb the top of the hill, depending on your speed and agility. It is suggested to take frequent pit stops and enjoy the greenery. You can follow a radio tower beyond the Samaritan School on the hill top as you ascend- you can also follow the pathway laid by locals to guide your way up. Once you reach the top, you will see a small temple near the radio tower. Legend claims that the god in the temple saves people from being attacked by bears and evil spirits. You can climb a huge rock near the tower with the help of an iron ladder to take a breathtaking view of the valley beneath, nestled between the lush green forest and mountains- a true nature lover's paradise. You can find a few shortcuts routes downhill-- true trekkers can try out these. ====Boating on Punganur Lake==== *This is an artificial lake, excavated in an area of 57 m². The Elagiri Hills Development and Tourism Promotion Society runs the Boat Club, with pedalling and rowing boats. There is a newly laid florid cultural garden with a pathway along the bund with a panoramic view of the lake on one side and the garden on the other. A connecting bridge leads the pathway around the lake. The pathway around the lake is particularly good for birding. There is also a small watch tower constructed next to a tree which can be climbed. Even though the water is not clear, the lake is pretty clean. ====Science/educational==== *Vainu Bappu Solar Observatory (Elagiri): One of the largest solar observatories, it is in Kavalur, 35 km from Thiruppathur, near Yelagiri. Prior permission is required to visit this observatory. *Farm visits: Rose farms provide an interesting detour. ====For children==== *A well laid out park on a 6-acre land adjacent to the lake, is established with varieties of children's play areas installed within the park. There is also a small zoo. But no animals could be seen there in January 2006. ====For everyone==== * There is a "Kodao Vizha ground" which is a lovely ground with beautiful paths for walking. This is now be updated [May 08] to the Nature park . A lovely 10-acre campus with an artificial fall, an aquarium, musical fountain in the evenings and amazing landscaping. It has 2 shows in musical fountain 7PM and 8PM. Very nice with gallery like setup and playing some 4 songs each in Hindi & Tamil. The latest addition is the Nilavoor lake - more of a pond, with a few boats. Don't miss the ancient hero stines featured in the ancient temple - each of an archer pointing towards the 4 directions. ==Buy== '''Home made honey''' and '''jack fruit''' (on season) are available in Yellagiri Hills. The Home made Honey can be bought from YMCA with good quality and taste. You can trust it to be original. Otherwise you have to check whether its original. There is a small house near YMCA, where you can get pure malai thein (mountain honey). The weekly market (Sandhai) assembles in Athanavoor on Fridays. Again you will find the usual modern cheap plastic wares from the plains are sold, along with a few agricultural products from the hills. ===ATMs=== There is an ATM near the State Bank of India branch in Athanavur village. ==Eat== Food is not a problem in Yelagiri, except if you are trekking. Otherwise there are a number of eateries offering south/north Indian food at reasonable rates. Branded soft drinks and water bottles are available. Look out for '''jackfruit''' - this area has plenty of it available especially in the summer months, and the fruit here is considered very good. Also, there are lots of fruits available each season like guava, custard apple, etc. Try to bargain as much as possible as the locals are very keen. On the contrary, you will also get some fruits near Swamimalai trekking spot where the locals will surprise you by giving you more than what you expect. A few food joints serve authentic Tandoori/Chinese/Indian food * '''Tandoori Hut''' on Boat House Road (Next to Boat House Main Entrance) * '''The Hotel Hills''' on the main Rd ==Drink== There is a TASMAC (Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation) liquor outlet just opposite the entrance to the lake. So have no fears and you do not have to carry your liquor unless and until you are travelling from Bangalore where you have the option of more varieties and you would not want limit yourselves to the limited options available at the TASMAC Wine Shops in Tamil Nadu. Also, immediately after you take the right at Ponneri, you have another TASMAC Wine Shop on the right hand side. ==Sleep== Finding a place to stay without advance booking during weekends is difficult. It is advisable to enquire at a number of hotels beforehand and book in advance. The best time to visit is during weekdays when most hotels are practically empty and hence offer huge discounts. A number of hotels big and small are available on the hill. There are also a few homestays though these are unlikely to be listed online. The rates for hotel accommodation range from ₹500 to ₹3000 per room. Make sure you carry enough money (in cash) for your expenses, as the hotels here do not accept credit cards. * {{sleep | name=The Grama Yelagiri | url= | email=thegrama@gmail.com | address=Boat House road | lat= | long= | directions=Right next to the boat house | phone = +91 4179 245290 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹600 | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Tent N Trek Yelagiri | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 59544544 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2018-08-15 | content=Camp at Yelagiri for 2 days with activities like ATV rides, bungee trampoline, human slingshot, parallel zip lines, minigolf, shooting, archery, wooden bridge, paintball etc. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Silent Waters | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/YelagiriHomeStay/ | email=bookings@silentwaters.in | address=Athanavur | lat= | long= | directions=3 km from the main market place, a few buses from Vellore and Tirupattur go here | phone=+91 4179-245364, +91 9840054300 (mobile) | tollfree= | checkin=24 hours | checkout=24 hours | price=₹1500 for a deluxe room | content=The property has around 16 rooms, each different from the other, a shuttle court, camp fire and music at night. A conference hall with indoor games facility is also under construction. And lots and lots of greenery. The hospitality more than makes up for the lack of even 2 star facilities. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=YMCA Dormitories | alt=Camp Yelagiri | url=http://ymcayelagiri.org/ | email=prince_yellagiri@yahoo.com | address=Thayalur | lat= | long= | directions=about 5km's from Athanavur, a few buses from Vellore and Tirupattur go here | phone=+91 4179-245226,+91 4179 295144,+91 4179 220030, +91 9486723499 (mobile),+91 9751841025 (mobile) | tollfree= | checkin=24 hours | checkout=24 hours | price=₹80/- per head (dormitory) and ₹600/₹650 for a deluxe room | content=The hostel has about 36 fully furnished double-bed rooms. The YMCA also runs a '''Camp Center''' on about 40 acres of green land with a meeting hall and a mini meeting hall. }} * {{sleep | name=Zeenath Taj | url= | email= | address=Athanavur | lat= | long= | directions=Near the bus stop | phone = +91 4179-245231 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=24 hr | checkout= | content=Nice resort over 11 acres full of mango, custard apple trees and very good food. It's the only place in town which accepts credit cards }} *{{sleep | name=Sterling Holiday Resorts | url= | email=sterlingyelagiri@gmail.com | address=opposite to Tourist Information Centre Yelagiri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone = +91 4179-245356, +91 4179245320 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin=noon | checkout=10AM | content=A beautiful place to stay with excellent food. The staffs are well mannered with star class hospitality. The rooms are well maintained with a greenery view around. Foods are served to the rooms. Includes the Ayurvedic Therapy Centre with a blend of Indian and Chinese therapies, it is a well organized messages centre with authentic Kerala tradition and professionalism, very neat and hygienic. }} *{{sleep | name=Nature's Nest Holidays | url=http://naturesnestholidays.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=Nature's Nest Holidays in Yelagiri functions like a Home Stay. Its spacious and provides breath taking scenic views. Pick up from and to railway station is also provided. }} * {{sleep | name=Chariot Valley Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Yelagiri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +91 4179245301 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-07-15 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Kumara Raja Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Yelagiri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +91 4179245325 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-07-15 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Emerald Dove | alt= | url= | email= | address=Yelagiri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +91 4179245264 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-07-15 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Madhura Resort | alt= | url= | email= | address=yelagiri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +91 9840544894 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-07-15 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=PWD Inspection Bungalow | alt= | url= | email= | address=Yelagiri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +91 4179245222 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-07-15 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Oh Nila Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Yelagiri | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +91 4179245371 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-07-15 | content= }} ==Connect== BSNL, Vodafone and Airtel have connectivity in Yelagiri. ==Go next== It is better to move out during the daytime. The hairpin bent road that takes you down (and up) is narrow and there are possibilities of traffic jams due to big buses. * [[Kolar (district)|Kolar]] * [[Hogenakkal]] {{geo|12.578104|78.640737}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Tamil Nadu}} {{outlinecity}} ps1j0i7xafwrz6me2st8gwf0z27xr8m 0 40237 5091166 4977543 2025-07-11T02:58:19Z DaGizza 162256 /* Go next */ Updated listing for Tanis 5091166 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Zagazig Banner.jpg}} '''Zagazig''' (Arabic: الزقازيق, romanized: az-Zaqāzīq) is a town of about 430,000 people (2021) in [[Lower Egypt]], on the Muweis Canal. There is a museum of antiquities, the Sharkeya National Museum (sometimes called the Amed Orabi Museum, at Herriat Raznah) that contains many important archaeological exhibits ==Understand == It is the capital of the Sharqia Governorate, and is a hub of the corn and cotton trade. == Get in == === By plane === Cairo International Airport is the nearest international gateway to it and it is only an hour by car from the Airport. === By bus === You can reach the city by the Public Bus Service which is being run by "East of Delta co." or "Shark Al-Delta" as pronounced in Arabic. === By train === You can reach to the city using the Egyptian National Railways which is called in Arabic "Sekak Hadeed Masr" and the city is about 1.5 hours away from Cairo. {{marker|type=go|name=Zagazig railway station|lat=30.582571|long=31.502031}} is centrally located at Orabi square. === By taxi === From Aboud station you can reach the city using the road which connects "Cairo-Banha-Minyat Al Kamh- Zagazig" or From the El salam station "Locally widely known as Al aashr station" using the desert way to Belbies to Zagazig. ==Get around== {{mapframe|zoom=auto|layer=W}} ==See== * {{see | name=Museum of leader Ahmed Orabi | alt=متحف الزعيم أحمد عرابى | url=http://www.sharkia.gov.eg/English/Tourism/Museums/OrabyMuseum%20.aspx | email= | address=Ahmed Orabi St | lat=30.604026 | long=31.536519 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=08:00-19:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2017-07-07 | content=Museum dedicated to one of the first nationalist leaders in Egypt who was born here in 1841. Also includes exhibitions on the culture of the Sharqia region. }} * {{see | name=[[Tell Basta]] | alt=Bubastis | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=to the southeast | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q603841 | lastedit=2020-08-16 | content=The ruins of the ancient sacred city of Bastet, the cat goddess. There are ruins of temples and catacombs of sacred cats. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Tell Basta Antiquities | alt=متحف تل بسطة | url=http://www.sharkia.gov.eg/English/Tourism/Museums/TellBasta.aspx | email= | address=Zakazik First| lat=30.57364 | long=31.51244 | directions=northwest of Bubastis archaeological site | phone=+20 55 2299381 | tollfree= | hours=09:00-17:00 daily | price= | lastedit=2020-09-18 | content=Museum with Egyptian relics related to Bubastis, in particular to the cat goddess Bastet along with ushabti statues and mummies of the 18th dynasty. Pottery and mummy preservation stuff. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== *{{eat | name=Mo'men | url= | email= | address=tolba ewida street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Egyptian fast food restaurant }} *{{eat | name=Freskas | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=best sandwiches in zagazig }} ==Drink== *{{drink | name=El rashidy | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== ==Go next== * {{listing | name=Tanis | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.97619 | long=31.87921 | directions=adjacent to San Al Hagar township | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-09-20 | content=Where Indiana Jones found the 'Lost Ark'. It's an archaeological ruin of the Late Period (8th-4th century BCE) built up by Psusennes I and later Pharaohs that really hasn't fared well, there just being some obelisks and stelae scattered about a partly excavated field with glass shard debris. It is not of the same preservation caliber as other ancient Egyptian ruins, sadly and may take some know-how/perseverance to visit, as it's not commercialized or developed. }} * {{listing | name=Sadat Quraish Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=in Bilbeis | lat=30.41825 | long=31.56329 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-09-20 | content= }} {{geo|30.5667|31.5000}} {{isPartOf|Lower_Egypt}} {{outlinecity}} h7x5v5vr1cv4kqmn7x8ic9j0e0bva4r 1 42447 5090992 2506642 2025-07-10T17:59:51Z Coleisforeditor 2327348 5090992 wikitext text/x-wiki Is [[Exeter]] England to famous to disamb. I know there is a [[Exeter (Rhode Island)]] (just linked) and a [[Exeter (Missouri)]]. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:(WT-en) Xltel|(WT-en) Xltel]] ([[User_talk:(WT-en) Xltel|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/(WT-en) Xltel|contribs]]) 18:50, 16 February 2006 (UTC)</small> :[[Exeter]] England has a population at least 100x greater than the other Exeters, of which there are quite a few, and is the city from which the name derives. Thousands of people travel to [[Exeter]] England each year, and it has an international airport, albeit small- I doubt that this is true for the others. For these reasons, I feel that a disamb for [[Exeter]] England is correct.--[[User:(WT-en) Electricotter|(WT-en) Electricotter]] 17:03, 18 February 2009 (EST) Removed YHA, as it is now closed down. --[[User:DiabloCableGuy|DiabloCableGuy]] ([[User talk:DiabloCableGuy|talk]]) 15:53, 15 January 2014 (UTC) kwofgjsnwyg6w18hy171ygxuun4i5zb 5090997 5090992 2025-07-10T18:12:39Z Coleisforeditor 2327348 5090997 wikitext text/x-wiki ==Disamb== {{ombox | text = This section was added in post by someone else to create a visual distinction between topics }} Is [[Exeter]] England to famous to disamb. I know there is a [[Exeter (Rhode Island)]] (just linked) and a [[Exeter (Missouri)]]. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:(WT-en) Xltel|(WT-en) Xltel]] ([[User_talk:(WT-en) Xltel|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/(WT-en) Xltel|contribs]]) 18:50, 16 February 2006 (UTC)</small> :[[Exeter]] England has a population at least 100x greater than the other Exeters, of which there are quite a few, and is the city from which the name derives. Thousands of people travel to [[Exeter]] England each year, and it has an international airport, albeit small- I doubt that this is true for the others. For these reasons, I feel that a disamb for [[Exeter]] England is correct.--[[User:(WT-en) Electricotter|(WT-en) Electricotter]] 17:03, 18 February 2009 (EST) ==YHA== {{ombox | text = This section was added in post by someone else to create a visual distinction between topics }} Removed YHA, as it is now closed down. --[[User:DiabloCableGuy|DiabloCableGuy]] ([[User talk:DiabloCableGuy|talk]]) 15:53, 15 January 2014 (UTC) 9rfuhtw71sv4tc15vq1ppthcdyd8hc8 5091005 5090997 2025-07-10T18:31:05Z 92.21.137.132 In general, {{ombox}} should not be used on articles, talk pages, image pages or category pages. 5091005 wikitext text/x-wiki ==Disamb== Is [[Exeter]] England to famous to disamb. I know there is a [[Exeter (Rhode Island)]] (just linked) and a [[Exeter (Missouri)]]. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:(WT-en) Xltel|(WT-en) Xltel]] ([[User_talk:(WT-en) Xltel|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/(WT-en) Xltel|contribs]]) 18:50, 16 February 2006 (UTC)</small> :[[Exeter]] England has a population at least 100x greater than the other Exeters, of which there are quite a few, and is the city from which the name derives. Thousands of people travel to [[Exeter]] England each year, and it has an international airport, albeit small- I doubt that this is true for the others. For these reasons, I feel that a disamb for [[Exeter]] England is correct.--[[User:(WT-en) Electricotter|(WT-en) Electricotter]] 17:03, 18 February 2009 (EST) ==YHA== Removed YHA, as it is now closed down. --[[User:DiabloCableGuy|DiabloCableGuy]] ([[User talk:DiabloCableGuy|talk]]) 15:53, 15 January 2014 (UTC) lku4lwfanjs75i59mgpmpiy8ke9jcm8 1 45822 5091011 4732309 2025-07-10T18:46:25Z Steinbach 1492831 /* Nightlife */ new section 5091011 wikitext text/x-wiki == External links == Removed External Links from article, see [[Project:Article_templates#Where_did_the_"External_links"_sections_go?|Where did the "External links" sections go?]]'. I've stashed them herre in the event someone wishes to incorporate any of these into the article in the customary way. --[[User:(WT-en) SHC|(WT-en) SHC]] 16:36, 3 June 2006 (EDT) http://www.riga.lt http://www.riga.lv/EN/Channels/About_Riga/default.htm http://www.riga-airport.com/ '''Riga Public Transport:''' http://www.ttp.lv/ (Trolleybus and Tramway) http://www.rigassatiksme.lv/maps.php (Interactive Route map) ==Riga Card== I'm wondering: Should the Riga card, which covers both transportation and attractions, go under Get Around or See, with a mention in the other? I'm thinking See --Rastapopulous :I also think '''See''', since the reader will see it with the list of attractions. You wouldn't buy it for the transport alone, but you may buy it for the attraction admissions alone. [[User:(WT-en) Andyfarrell|(WT-en) Andyfarrell]] 08:10, 12 November 2009 (EST) ==Categorizing== Does anyone else know what categories the remaining restaurants are in? --Rastapopulous :I'm trying to figure out a scheme for categorizing the restaurants. Anyone have any ideas? I'm afraid I'm not very good at this. [[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 18:06, 13 November 2009 (EST) ==Lido Entertainment Center== This will be a nightmare, especially considering I've never been there, but I am going to try and take on this listing. Does anyone know if by "holidays" on the website (in the section w/ the hours), they really mean "weekends"? [[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 14:29, 11 November 2009 (EST) :Looks like you made a decent stab at it. By the way, the convention is to add new items on talk pages at the bottom. [[User:(WT-en) Andyfarrell|(WT-en) Andyfarrell]] 08:10, 12 November 2009 (EST) :Okay, I've split it up a bit now. Anyone have any idea whether the "Russian-themed" restaurant is what's on the middle floor? [[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 18:04, 13 November 2009 (EST) ::No, the whole thing appears to be Russian-themed; the middle floor is simply the main (and largest) area. [[User:(WT-en) Andyfarrell|(WT-en) Andyfarrell]] 09:02, 15 November 2009 (EST) :::Okay. What exactly is on the middle floor anyway, that's different from the other two? [[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 16:30, 15 November 2009 (EST) ==Duplicate listing== I have the suspicion that this listing: *The markets next to International Bus Terminal are full of people selling their wares at stalls, both inside the large halls and around the outside. The market is actually quite non-touristy with more emphasis on selling things like second-hand clothing, food, furniture or kitchen supplies. In here you can buy almost anything... Very good for souvenirs. There are lots of small cafes scattered around the markets that serve up cheap local eats. Is the same as the Central Market. It is pretty close to the bus terminal. Can anyone confirm/deny this?[[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 21:48, 12 November 2009 (EST) ::Yes, now I look at it in detail I'm sure you're right. There were stalls outside the back of CM, the descriptions of the things on sale are right. Descriptions of where buses ran from were vague - some said Central Market, some said the Stockmann centre. These were positioned either side of the main railway station, and I don't know where the ''International'' Bus Terminal would be. I say delete it as a duplicate item or merge some text. [[User:(WT-en) Andyfarrell|(WT-en) Andyfarrell]] 03:51, 13 November 2009 (EST) :::Do you think I should merge them into Buy or See? I think Buy. [[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 11:18, 13 November 2009 (EST) ::::Either one works, as it's a bit of both, so go with your preference. [[User:(WT-en) Andyfarrell|(WT-en) Andyfarrell]] 11:43, 13 November 2009 (EST) :::::The listings have been merged together and placed into the Buy section. [[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 16:54, 13 November 2009 (EST) == image budget hotels in the journey's time == <nowiki>[[Image:Doc_budget_hotel_riga2-s.jpg|thumb|250px]]</nowiki> This image was done by myself. The data come from google maps and a latvian magazine. I did it for a friend who work in travel agency. I can confirm the data can be used for any document, and I give to everyone the right to use this picture. It's very usefull for customers. Even if it helps the Top 5 of the hotels in this table, it also provide a right information to others. If a guest get a good deal with one hotel, he can decide if want to spend more time in transport or not for such price. But it will not have an unpleasant surprise. [[User:(WT-en) Peterisvalkis|(WT-en) Peterisvalkis]] 11:21, 6 January 2010 (EST) :I'm going to remove this image. The info it presents is a detailed comparison of hotel distances which, presented in any other form, would still likely be eliminated. It also contains a great deal of tiny tiny text, much of it in other languages, and it does not generally fit with our style to present info tables in image form. [[User:(WT-en) Texugo|(WT-en) texugo]] 12:08, 31 October 2011 (EDT) ==Stay Safe== I haven't seen a notice on pickpockets. Be aware, they operate smoothly at the underground passageways connecting old town, 13.janvara iela, stockman centrs and central station. Even the locals say that it is an infamous place for pickpockets. I got robbed from my media player while I was even listening to that device and I didn't see who did it! I have captured a picture of a pick pocketer operating by using a fake hand bag with his arm hidden under it. Maybe I can upload it to this site. From Damian. == Alternative banner for this article? == [[File:Riga Wikivoyage banner.jpg|right|thumb|500px]] In the Hebrew Wikivoyage we are currently using this banner instead of the one which is currently used here. Do you think too that this banner would would better than the existing one? [[User:ויקיג&#39;אנקי|ויקיג&#39;אנקי]] ([[User talk:ויקיג&#39;אנקי|talk]]) 06:55, 23 February 2014 (UTC) : I don't like this banner. First, it is too broad, and each object is so small that it becomes indistinguishable on my 14' screen. Second, it is a 360-deg panorama wrapped into a "linear" image, which makes it confusing: there is only one river in Riga, and you should not see it on both left and right sides of the photo. --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 07:10, 23 February 2014 (UTC) ::Even just purely as a composition, I at least marginally prefer the current banner, although it's a little hazy in the distance.<small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User_talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Ikan Kekek|contribs]]) </small> :::Like Alexander, I find it slightly "disturbing" and unreal to see Daugava River both on the right and the left, hence I prefer the old banner. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:11, 23 February 2014 (UTC) [[File:Riga Wikivoyage banner 2.jpg|right|thumb|500px]] How about this one, I recropped the panorama to avoid "double river effect". [[User:Jjtkk|Jjtkk]] ([[User talk:Jjtkk|talk]]) 19:43, 24 February 2014 (UTC) :That improved it a lot. I would favor replacing the current banner with your recropped image. But I'd like to see what people who know the city have to say, as I've never visited Riga. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:01, 25 February 2014 (UTC) :: This recropped image is now very similar to the old banner. I still weakly prefer the old one, though, because it shows individual landmarks more clearly. --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 04:24, 25 February 2014 (UTC) :::It is very similar cause I like the current banner except the fact that Zeppelin hangars and TV-Tower are cut off and Academy of Sciences is in renovation. When I made the current banner I didn't find the panorama we have now and there were more serious dimension constraints from source photo. [[User:Jjtkk|Jjtkk]] ([[User talk:Jjtkk|talk]]) 10:40, 25 February 2014 (UTC) It would be pretty if anyone who can take photo from the 11. novembra krastmala of Riga, and make banner as this: [[:File:Riga daugava.jpg]]. --[[User:Great Brightstar|Great Brightstar]] ([[User talk:Great Brightstar|talk]]) 05:28, 10 September 2023 (UTC) [[File:Riga Wikivoyage banner 3.jpg|right|thumb|500px]] I created a new banner for this, which captured from a panorama image from west side of Daugava River, and I beliebe this should be worthy of the best view of the city throughout the history (see [[c:Category:Panoramics in Riga]]). --[[User:Great Brightstar|Great Brightstar]] ([[User talk:Great Brightstar|talk]]) 03:19, 16 September 2023 (UTC) :Thanks for creating the new banner. Let's discuss the pros and cons of the different banners. The first banner probably has the best light, except for people who prefer sunsets; the third banner has the most distinctive view but is a little fuzzy; and the second banner is probably sharpest but has the least appealing light. Your thoughts, everyone? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:47, 16 September 2023 (UTC) ::1 and 2 look more appealing than 3, FWIW. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 11:35, 16 September 2023 (UTC) ::Seen from EXIF information from original file, this was taken during a sunset. -- [[User:Great Brightstar|Great Brightstar]] ([[User talk:Great Brightstar|talk]]) 04:43, 19 September 2023 (UTC) :::We'd assumed it wasn't a sunrise, but we have doubts that it's the best of the 3 banners. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:04, 19 September 2023 (UTC) == Bus rental Riga == Its very useful to have a bus rental address, because, people who may visit wiki voyage website are probably planning their trip by them self's, and they are probably looking for a cheaper and a better way to explore Riga and Latvia in this case. If they have a place where they can compare prices with existing bus routes, It may be interesting for them to expand their trip in Riga and Latvia all together. It could be very useful information for people who are traveling in big groups. Or, for travelers, who are just looking for some options and are planning a group tour. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:Oskars123|Oskars123]] ([[User_talk:Oskars123|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Oskars123|contribs]]) </small> :I'll have some arguments later, but perhaps someone would like to address whether bus rental listings have been permitted on any other page on this site, and what reasoning has been used in regard to policy so far. Meanwhile, please wait for a consensus and don't edit war. Thanks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 16:15, 15 May 2014 (UTC) == District split == We now have 58 "See" listings alone, and I believe there are many more to add, not to mention a lack of most of the important "Do" listings. This will probably push the combined number of POIs in those two sections alone to over 100. Moreover, we still have the Eat, Drink and Sleep sections to cover, which will make it something around 200 with the ones we already have and a few more that will probably be added. Further still, it is hard to give a single set of directions on getting around for the POI-filled largely pedestrian Old Town, the dense Centrs and the sparsely sprinkled POIs outside of the Centra rajons. Therefore, my proposal would be to split Riga into three separate articles: * Vecriga * Centrs (may include the bit of Maskavas forstate immediately adjacent to the railway station) * Outer Riga (basically everything outside Centra rajons) I know this seems quite radical and would provide for two relatively small districts and one super-large, but I guess the relative POI density makes it the only reasonable solution. Having separate guides for every of the five outer districts would results with near-empty articles with little chance of being filled with relevant content. Only by combining them do we get a critical mass necessary for a reasonably useful guide. What do you guys think? Should I go forward with that? [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 08:16, 14 July 2014 (UTC) PS. [[User:Ypsilon]], [[User:Jjtkk]], [[User:Abstraktn]], [[User:Nurg]], [[User:Carsten R D]] - I saw you made edits to this article in not-so-distant past. You may perhaps want to weigh in on the above. : What is Centers? I think even locals will be confused, because the center of Riga is the Old Town. : Riga has several well-defined districts, such as Pardaugava (+Daugavgriva), Maskavas forštate (from the central market and Academy of Science to the church of Old Believers and Jewish memorials; an essential part of Riga that most tourists do not know), Vidzemes or Peterburgas priekšpilsēta (with its Jugenstil buldings and industrial architecture). And the rest could be called Outer districts, where places like Mezaparks and ethnography museum will be described. : If you don't feel that you can write about each of these districts, then perhaps keep everything in one article for the time being? --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 03:52, 15 July 2014 (UTC) ::Thanks for chipping in, Alexander! I take it you know Riga very well, so your opinion is very valuable. ::I have in fact never been to Riga, I am just researching it for the coming visit. What I have found is that the Centrs part of the Centra rajons is very often referenced, and that most POIs that are not in Vecriga are located there, including the Jugendstil buildings (Elizabetes, Albertas, Marijas etc.) It seems to me that the official district of Vidzemes priekspilseta is the one further out, where we do not have many POIs. ::Regarding Maskavas forštate, it surely is an important district, but it seems like most POIs, apart from the said Grebenshchikov Church, are actually close to the train station, and there isn't even 10 See items there. So creating a separate guide would provide for a stubby one, so I propose to add this part of the Maskavas forštate to the part on the 19th-century centre (however we call it). ::As regards Pardaugava, there doesn't seem to be more than 10 POIs in total (including hotels and the airport, which isn't even in Riga actually) on the right bank of the river. Therefore, I believe we would be creating an empty shell of an article just to "highlight the significance" of the district, which we can well do by appropriately formulating the "Understand" and "See" (and other) sections of the combined "Outer Riga" article. ::Do take into account that I am looking at Riga from a tourist's point of view, not local's. There may be many well-defined districts that follow, or don't follow, the official borders, but some of them are simply of less interest to the tourist and I guess we should gauge if a district "deserves" a separate guide by looking at the number of POIs first and foremost, not its cultural, historical etc. significance for the locals. Which is not to say we should not mention and emphasize how the locals see Riga, and what they find important, this is only the principle I'd adopt for districtification. ::Finally - no, I cannot write at length about any of those districts much more than is already written, and what I can find in the sources, as I don't know Riga. I was just trying to use the guide to plan my journey and found it unwieldy, due to the extreme concentration of POIs in the Old Town, which I guess could be better described in a separate article, as almost every street has some significance and that would be more of a walking guide. Furthermore, I have found the area that I have found references as "Centrs" similarly filled with POIs to the point that outlying POIs in the other district you mentioned would be distracting. Hence my idea for the split, as those three guides would allow for easy trip planning and would make getting acquainted with the city easier due to the respective POI density. ::Lastly - while I believe I have an idea of all the important "See" listings, both already included and still to be added (which I plan on doing in due course), I may be very wrong on that. Would you be so kind and try to '''add the ones you believe are missing''' so that we could get a better idea of the concentrations of POIs on the map and then I could better understand your points? ::Again, thank you for joining the discussion - I am very happy to have you, with your obvious knowledge of Riga, on board! [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 05:36, 15 July 2014 (UTC) :::Yeah, Riga is a pretty long article. Been once to Riga, but it was a while ago, so I don't know how much I can help (I added coordinates for everything a few months back but had to use google maps+the address for everything but the most famous sights). IMO it would be logical to divide Riga into four: 1. Vecriga (Old town), 2. Commercial centre or something like that for places around the railway station and northeast of the old town, 3. East bank (east of Daugava outside those two, don't know where to draw the border), 4. West bank. :::Or then Vecriga could just be chopped out as one separate district article, Andrewssi did this to Haeundae beach when districtifying [[[Busan]] for the first time. :::Or we could keep everything here and arrange sights under subheadings for each district and for the sight-dense Vecriga even "sub-subheadings" for different kinds of sights if needed. :::Ps. I'm traveling and won't be editing much this week. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:23, 15 July 2014 (UTC) ::::This article is long enough to be split in my opinion. Old Town/Vecriga should get its own article but I'm not sure about Centrs, I agree it's hard to define its borders while in Riga. I'd go with three "districts": ::::*Old Town - UNESCO listed, one day tourists mostly stay just there ::::*East Bank (with POIs along Brivibas iela and in Maskavas forštate) for those who have a bit more time ::::*West bank (with islands on Daugava) - not much to see there really ::::This way borders are well defined and we don't have on huge outer district (which I think are very impractical). That's how I dealt with Riga when I stayed there for two weeks or so. [[User:Jjtkk|Jjtkk]] ([[User talk:Jjtkk|talk]]) 08:06, 15 July 2014 (UTC) Well, "Riga for tourists in 2 days" does not need any districts. It should be all about the Old Town plus few points next to its borders. This is what most people see, and one single article covers it very well, even though it will be a long article. But one article is always better than 2-3 articles, because you don't have to jump from one text to another every time you cross the boulevards and leave the Old Town. I emphatically disagree with statements like "not much to see there really", and I can start adding POIs (how many POIs do you want? how many POIs warrant a separate district?) but this will bring us to a discussion whether each of these POIs is important or not. I also don't think that counting POIs makes much sense, because most of the pre-WWII districts have their own ambiance, which is something that you never get from the map. Maskavas forštate, Āgenskalns, Grīziņkalns all deserve a separate walk and will give you a real feel of the city with its rich history and controversial reality, but this is not what most tourists are interested in. Finally, one can easily compare Tallinn and Riga, which are cities of similar size and similar tourist importance. The current version of the Tallinn article is pretty much a dumb-tourist-oriented travel guide fitted into a single article. It mentions Nomme as "another residential district", which is quite funny to read about the richest collection of Estonian buildings from 1920-30-s (the short period of independence), let alone the gorgeous Glehn's manor, but indeed nobody goes there because it is not featured in popular travel guides. The current version of Riga article is a similar mainstream tourist thing, and it should fit into one article as well. Whenever we have other people who are interested in non-mainstream things, a proper district scheme can be developed. --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 09:17, 15 July 2014 (UTC) :[[User:Alexander]], first of all - if you know of more POIs, '''by all means do add them''' (both to [[Riga]] and [[Tallinn]] - we have only 2 weeks until Tallinn goes onto the front page!). You are a seasoned contributor, I seriously doubt we would have any qualms about any POI you may add. Some of them may be "less important", but I guess that's what guides are all about - if we provide and appropriate description, it is up for the tourist to decide what they find important and interesting for them. The more choice and more in-depth information, the better. There is no point dumbing things down. :I believe there is a certain number of POIs that can serve as a good rule of a thumb if a district should be carved out. I'd say this should be around 25 POIs in the See & Do sections combined. May just as well not work everytime, but I believe districtification is first and foremost a way for us to reign in overly long lists of listings. For areas that are interesting, but not really filled with POIs in the strictest sense, a good way is to give them a descriptive and attractive description, e.g. telling tourists that it is worth going there for a stroll and experience the wooden architecture of 19th-century ambiance, particularly along XX and YY streets. We don't need a separate article for that. :OTOH, I cannot agree with you that everything that a "casual tourist" (I wouldn't call them dumb - attractions that are the most popular tend to be so because the most people are interested in them, let us leave judging people's tastes aside) may want to see in Riga is in the Old Town or "next to its borders". First off, Riga's Old Town is very unique in the way that it is quite clearly separated from other parts of town by a river, canal, belts of green and two main roads. Going from the Old Town into other parts requires a conscious decision and I believe tourists can easily see they are going into another district, plus there is a bit of a walk (or a bus ride!), significantly more than between the POIs within the Old Town, between the Old Town and the 19th century Riga. :It is easy to walk from Elizabetes into Albertas, or further into Marijas, Krisjana Valdemara or Baznicas. Just like moving between Doma, Livu and Ratslaukums is a matter of turning around a corner. This is why both of this areas could use walking guides that one could constantly reference while they walk. But crossing the canal is a longer walk and then we can advise the tourist to turn to a different guide, where a different set of instructions would be given (e.g. we pretty much don't have to mention trams for the Old Town, but could discuss individual lines when dealing with 19th century Riga, which is how I understand "Centrs"). :[[User:Ypsilon]] - thanks for chipping in and finding time for that during your "voyaging"! Seems like your first impression is the same as mine, with the difference that you would split out the west bank entirely. [[User:Jjtkk]] thank you as well! With regard to your comment - is the Old Town enough for a day? What about the Elizabetes, Albertas and other 19th-century streets? I guess they may be even more of a draw than the Old Town itself. At any rate, putting Elizabetes and Albertas, as well as the Academy of Science and Central Market, in the same article with outliers like Mezaparks would not provide for a hnady guide IMHO, which is why I proposed to split them in the first place. :What I would propose is for us to start the Old Town article (we seem to all agree this is a separate, well-defined, touristy or not, part of Riga), and I would propose for you to reconsider my proposal for a Centrs article to avoid putting stuff "close to the Old Town but requiring a bit of a walk or two bus stops" and "requiring an hour's bus ride" together. Then we could leave out everything else in the "Outer Riga" article (and continually add to it) and see if any of the further districts mentioned emerges from that as a useful material for a guide. How about this? [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 20:03, 15 July 2014 (UTC) :: Don't you want to see Riga first? Honestly, I find it very strange when one writes about the city without visiting it. This is something like writing travel guides on the basis of other travel guides and copying their bugs instead of providing your own view based on first-hand travel experience. :: Regarding extra POIs, I intentionally refrained from editing the Tallinn article, because it is a good and concise travel guide for a first-time visitor. If I now add 50+ POIs (which is very easy to do), we will have to split the article into districts, write overview texts explaining what to see and why, etc. I don't have enough time to do it myself (in fact, I do it, but very slowly and [[:ru:Таллин|in Russian]]), and I don't see other editors having deep knowledge of the city (same for Riga, unfortunately). Therefore, I strongly recommend to keep the article as basic as possible. However, if you want to see Riga beyond standard tourist attractions, here is a list (which is by far incomplete). --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 11:16, 16 July 2014 (UTC) :::Either this is a wiki about voyages and we treat it seriously and add content as we go - as it occurs to us, as we have the time - or we are trying to write a perfect offline travel guide. I would hope we all truly accept the perpetually imperfect nature of our guides stemming from the sole fact that they are being created that way. I don't think we should '''EVER''' refrain from editing, or adding to, a guide for fear of making it "less perfect". This work is never finished and we should never stop just because it is "good enough for now". :::So, if you find the below worth recommending to me, they are worth recommending to any other traveller who might stumble upon our guide. Why don't you start adding them to the article (same goes for [[Tallinn]]) and my observation is that this usually starts a snowball effect of other users getting interested, chipping in their knowledge, copyediting and such. So there is no need to worry that you will just add 50 POIs and nothing will happen. Please do just that, and things WILL happen. [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 20:40, 16 July 2014 (UTC) :::PS. Regarding the fact I edit this guide BEFORE visiting Riga - I did it several times for places I haven't been before since I started at Wikivoyage, and I found that I usually had little to add or change after I visited the place. There is a surprising breadth and depth of information if you are an inquisitive and imaginative traveller - be it online, on paper or to be got directly from those in the know. :::PS2. If after all that we shall see that there is a good reason for districtification of a certain area, it will be done in due course (and again, you will see that even if you don't have the time to write intros and such, somebody will). I would only suggest keeping POIs under headings of districts you may think may emerge, it will make the districtification easier (and will help the travellers anyway, regardless of whether we districtify or not). :::: Well, I did what I deemed necessary, and now I will step back to see how the wiki mechanism handles this information. --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 22:25, 16 July 2014 (UTC) :::::The borders of the old town are not a problem, I'd say. These would be Daugava, Vansu bridge/Krisjana Valdemara iela, Pilsetas kanals and 13 Janvara. But where the border between the "commercial centre" and the outer districts is not as straightforward. :::::As for now, however I'm fine with keeping the article as one. :::::Also, if we are going to add a lot of sights with the aim of making districts we should also look into adding other types of POIs. I remember - Alexander for sure also does - the case with Moscow a few months back when a certain user added everything that could be considered a sight (I think there was close to 300 in one of them) and no additional restaurants, stores, hotels and bars and the article looked like an Opel Corsa with 50 sacks of cement in the trunk... [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:19, 17 July 2014 (UTC) === List of POIs by [[User:Atsirlin]] to be added to the article === '''Maskavas forštate:''' * Red warehouses. A huge cluster of mid-19th century warehouses between the train station and Central Market. They remind of the former trade harbor. <!--* [http://www.rgm.lv/ Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum]. Maskavas iela 14A. Old house moved from the ghetto area. History of Holocaust and Jewish Resistance in Latvia, models of Latvian synagogues. --> * St. Francis Church (Katoļu iela 16). Built in 1892, a gorgeous neo-gothic building in the middle of slums. Features copies of Giotto's mural paintings in the Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. * All Saints Church (Katoļu iela 10). Orthodox church built in neo-Romanic style around 1880. Unlike other orthodox churches in Latvia, which are typically Russian in their style and nature, this one was designed by a Latvian architect. * Church of John the Baptist (Kalna iela 21). Construction started in 1913-14 but it was not finished before the Russian Revolution and continued in 1920s when Latvia became independent. This led to a strange mix of styles rendering the church a rare example of modernist architecture implemented in an Orthodox temple. The adjacent Ivanovskoe cemetery is the main Orthodox cemetery of Riga. * Church of Our Lady of Kazan (Kalna iela 21). Another church on the same cemetery. Build of wood in 1812-15 in a somewhat awkward style with 5 small domes sitting on a massive drum. * Church of Gregory the Illuminator (Kojusalas iela 5). Armenian church built in 2011. * Old New Synagogue (Altnaie Schul, Maskavas iela 57). The only synagogue that survived through the WWII. Built in 1889, partially restored after the war and converted into a residential building. * Church of Michael Archangel (Maskavas iela 170). Old Believers church from 1894-95, nice example of the Russian Revival style. * Horse-drawn omnibus (Maskavas iela, crossing with Mazā Kalna iela). A funny monument commemorating the first Riga tram that was driven by horse power. An old iron construction nearby reminds of the former Hay Market. * Old Jewish cemetery (between Tējas iela and Ebreju iela). A huge area that reminds of the Jewish population of Maskavas forštate. Established in early 18th century, this cemetery kept expanding till the beginning of 20th century. After all local Jews were exterminated by the Nazis during WWII, Soviet government destroyed the remaining gravestones and converted the area into a Park of Communist Brigades. Nowadays, there is a small Jewish memorial. '''Āgenskalns:''' * St. Martin's Church (Slokas iela 34). Lutheran church from 1850s. Its decorations are fairly plain, but the location among the trees is remarkable. * Baptist Church (Mārupes iela 14). A mix of cultures and styles. Built in 1913-16, this church had neither a tower nor a dome and resembled a simple residential building. The tower was added in 1936. Baptist services continued until 1961 and resumed shortly after Latvia re-gained its independence. * Trinity church (Mārupes iela 2). A fine example of Russian style from the very end of 19th century. Don't miss rich decorations as well as eye-catching mural paintings and icons inside. * Methodist church (Slokas iela 6). A fairly bland building from 1930s. However, the very presence of a big methodist church in Riga is remarkable. * Church of St. Albert (Liepājas iela 38). Baroque edifice from early 20th century. The interior of the church was partly designed in 1950s despite the official atheist propaganda that was widely imposed in the Soviet Union. <!--* Market (Nometņu iela 64). An impressive building from 1911-23 marks the central square of Āgenskalns where as many as 6 different streets cross. Apart from being a decent traditional market, this building is remarkable as a red-brick manifestation of Jugendstil architecture in Riga. * National Library (Mūkusalas iela 3). An important part of the West Bank's cityscape, the National Library was built in 2008-13. It is perhaps the most remarkable part of the "New Riga" giving a more gentle feel to skyscrapers and other high-tech buildings that were recently constructed on the West Bank of the Daugava. The building was nicknamed the "Castle of Light", and the architect intended to mimic the towers of Vecriga, although casual tourists may rather see it as a cruise ship that has just arrived from the Baltic Sea and is anchored across the river from the Old Town. * [http://www.botanika.lu.lv Botanical garden] (Kandavas iela 2). Nice park featuring every type of plant growing in the Baltic States and North-Eastern Europe.--> '''Grīziņkalns:''' * St. Paul's Church (Augusta Deglava iela 1). Neogothic church from 1885 marks the center of Riga's main industrial neighborhood. Most of the mural paintings are from 1930s and represent the art of independent Latvia before WWII. * Two gas storage buildings from 1882 and 1901 (end of Matīsa iela) are landmarks of the old gas factory in Riga. These enormous structures reaching 40 m in diameter are probably the largest buildings of their kind in Eastern Europe. Note the pressure meter that mimics a clock. * Baptist church (Matīsa iela 50b). Light neo-Romanic building from 1867 looks completely alien to its dark industrial neighborhood. * Twin water towers located at the crossing of three railway lines (Mazā Matīsa iela) are known among locals as Anna and Zhanna (Ann and Joan). Legend has it that Anna was a skilled quack in medieval Riga. She was accused in being a witch and burnt to death. This triggered her sister Zhanna to commit suicide. Their ashes were brought to a place that was considered wicked, which is exactly the triangle between the railway lines where the water towers are located. This place is indeed quite strange and renowned for its remoteness dominated by a huge cemetery and a prison. The water towers from 1885-87 are very pretty, though, and seen from afar. * Matisa cemetery adjacent to the water towers has an interesting monument to the heroes of the Russian Revolution of 1905. The monument was built during the time of Soviet occupation (1956-59) and represents the typical gloomy-gray concrete style of Latvian military monuments constructed after WWII. Another and equally gloomy 1905 monument is in the small park on Grīziņkalns hill on Pērnavas iela. * Valmieras iela and adjacent streets boast gorgeous industrial buildings from late 19th century. The largest factory was Russo-Balt that produced first cars and airplanes in the Russian empire. Most of these buildings are now abandoned and derelict but quite interesting to see. You will find lots of old plaques, signboards and other 100-year old artifacts. == Bar scams, language school scams == Are those still current issues? Can't find any info on that on the US embassy site. Can anybody more in the know confirm if we should keep all those lenghty infoboxes about those? [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 12:43, 20 July 2014 (UTC) : I can't comment on the language schools. Regarding the bars, I suggest to remove the list and extend the text in the Stay Safe section. I am not sure whether such things are still common, but they might exist, similar to taxi drivers who tend to drive you for a fixed price instead of using the meter. --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 12:55, 20 July 2014 (UTC) == Confusing picture == [[File:Silja Europe in Riga harbour.jpg|thumbnail|right|The port of Riga has regular ferry connections to Stockholm]] It may well be true that Riga has regular ferry connections to Stockholm, but this picture is confusing. I took the picture myself in Riga, and that ship was going to Turku, not Stockholm. And besides, it was a special Christmas cruise. Normally it doesn't even go to Riga but sails between Stockholm and Turku. [[User:JIP|JIP]] ([[User talk:JIP|talk]]) 10:56, 24 July 2014 (UTC) :Or it did at the time. Apparently it now sails between Helsinki and Tallinn. [[User:JIP|JIP]] ([[User talk:JIP|talk]]) 10:58, 24 July 2014 (UTC) ::Tallink sails from Stockholm to Riga, but not with Europa ([http://www.hs.fi/talous/Silja+Europa+lähtee+Australiaan+ja+muuttuu+kelluvaksi+majapaikaksi/a1405916962670 which we BTW won't see around for a while]). But showing both a passenger ferry and the terminal I think it is the best photo we [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Water_transport_in_Riga currently have on Commons]. --[[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:20, 24 July 2014 (UTC) :::I put that picture with the caption there for the very reason outlined by Ypsilon. ''Silja Europa'' and ''Romantika'' aren't that totally different in terms of ship type and size. This picture is just to show that Riga has a ferry terminal that handles large passenger ferries of that size - and currently the only regular ferry connection is to Stockholm. [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 20:21, 24 July 2014 (UTC) == Oddities in the Understand section == ''Much of the old town was either destroyed by fire or destroyed by the Germans in World War II and remained in ruins until it was rebuilt in the late 1990s, mainly to make Riga attractive as a tourist destination.'' The only important building rebuilt in 1990s is the House of Blackheads. USSR-time tourists would be surprised to know that the beautiful (and by far less crowded than today) Old Town "remained in ruins" at the time when they admired it ''It is surrounded by a ring of ~19th–early 20th century architecture, followed by a mix of private 2-floor house districts (many also pre-WW2) and Soviet-era 5-18 floor apartment districts, with an occasional factory (especially near railroad lines)'' Given the fact that Riga was the second largest industrial center of the pre-1917 Russian Empire, "occasional factories" essentially fails to describe the amount of old industrial buildings that are still preserved in the city ''The term "centre" loosely refers to quite a large area around Old town limited by the river to the west, the railroad lines to the east and south, and without a definite boundary to the north.'' If you allude to Peterburgas forstate, that district has a well-defined northern boundary, the railway. ''As such, much of the architecture in Riga has been heavily influenced by Germany.'' ??? Despite its German name, Riga Jugendstil was developed by the local architect Sergey Eisenstein who was largely inspired by the French architecture of art nouveau. Wooden houses, orthodox churches, Latvian pre-WWII architecture... they have nothing to do with Germany. ''There are many administrative districts in Riga; however, almost all tourist attractions, historic buildings and hotels are contained within the borders of Centra rajons, which is relatively small and walkable. The outer districts do have their own draws, but they may require significant travel time and would not be of interest to a sporadic visitor.'' I am sorry, but that's bullshit. The outer districts are of little interest because they are not covered in the travel guide that we read before going to Riga and writing this article. Is it what you mean? --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 18:40, 27 May 2016 (UTC) :It would be great if you rewrote it to better reflect the city and added the POIs you find missing. [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 21:31, 27 May 2016 (UTC) :: Given the limited amount of my free time, I can't promise that I will do it in the nearest future. --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 15:49, 28 May 2016 (UTC) :::[[User:PrinceGloria]], in the case you wonder, it was Alexander's point #2 and #3 above I tried to address with the edit you just [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Riga&oldid=prev&diff=3018248 reverted]. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 13:07, 3 July 2016 (UTC) ::::I am not sure if discussing Riga's administrative situation in detail in the very opening of the article is necessary to address those, but then I may be missing something at 4:40AM... [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 02:41, 4 July 2016 (UTC) == Districtification, again == At Riga's [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates#Riga|DotM]] nomination, in addition to many other things, it was decided that Riga would benefit from districtification. I would propose 4 districts, as per my 2014 comments above; 1. Old Riga, 2. Centrs, 3. the rest of Daugava's east bank, 4. the west bank (ie. Pardaugava). What do you all say? [[User:PrinceGloria|Prince]]? [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 04:26, 14 June 2016 (UTC) :I disagree, I don't think we have enough content to districtify, nor that Riga would ever need districts. 06:32, 14 June 2016 (UTC)[[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) ::'''See''' and '''Sleep''' are very long for an article of this size (while '''Do''' and '''Buy''' are very short). I guess whether to districtify depends on whether there are more activities and shops to list in the district articles than are listed here already. [[User:LtPowers|Powers]] <small>^{([[User talk:LtPowers|talk]])}</small> 20:59, 15 June 2016 (UTC) :::I've created four district articles in my sandbox: [[User:Ypsilon#Riga]], based on the division above. So, this is what the districts would look like. Except for Get in information (which can be added using a street map and a public transportation network map), all four of them are technically usable. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:53, 1 July 2016 (UTC) ::::They do need introductions and "Understand" though. I'd also call "Old Riga" > "Vecriga" if we go with "Centrs". [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 08:17, 1 July 2016 (UTC) :::::Given that there is nobody opposed to the districtification any longer, I'll move the districts to mainspace now. After this it will be easy to eventually add more POIs etc. (perhaps beginning with the ones Alexander mentioned above), no matter if Riga is on the Main Page in September or not. :::::And to clarify; these districts are not something I single-handedly invented yesterday, but they were discussed already in [[#District_split]] above. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:56, 2 July 2016 (UTC) I think Alexander is right that we went for an odd choice for Centrs borders, leaving out many landmarks. Please go to e.g. Google Maps and type "Centrs" to see the current (?) administrative borders of Centrs and consider applying them instead. I also believe we have an odd cluster of landmarks in Outer East in Maskavas Forstate, which are easily reachable on foot from the Centrs / Vecriga. I would move to consider a districts like "Centrs and Maskavas Forstate" to cover all of the "close" landmarks together - in my experience this is good for planning a visit to Riga. You will probably not have the time to Pardaugava and Outer East unless you stay for at least one night, but for a day visit the entire area is walkable. [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 04:45, 5 July 2016 (UTC) : If the outer borders of Centrs are incorrect that's my mistake and I apologize. We should of course use the official borders for Centrs (or perhaps a slightly simplified/less zig-zaggy version in the north of Centrs which would make it easier for [[ttcf|users navigating around Riga]]). I checked out the borders sometime in May when it still was possible to see the borders on our dynamic map (last week and now that functionality is broken and also in http://maps.wikivoyage-ev.org/w/geomap.php no borders show up no matter how many times you check and uncheck the boundary box in the menu) and now had to draw it up out of memory. Luckily [https://www.google.fi/maps/place/Centrs,+Central+District,+Riika,+Latvia/@56.9582454,24.1018083,14z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x46eecfcec3ba0f81:0xc4ea58d09728848f!8m2!3d56.9571271!4d24.1156197 Google Maps] provides the correct borders and I will try to amend them within a few days most importantly with respect to the westernmost corner. Right now our Centrs article also includes a small triangle northeast of the railway station which apparently isn't officially part of Centrs, but I guess it's no harm in keeping it there. : Maskavas forstate is a hard one; the POIs with the central market are indeed close to the old town but the district officially stretches 2-3 kms southeast. Alternatively we could cut off just the westernmost part of Mf (for instance along Lacplesa iela) and include just that part in the Centrs article ("Centrs and Inner East") but I somehow guess that not everyone would be happy with such a solution. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 06:52, 5 July 2016 (UTC) :: I did not realize the depth disproportion between Centrs and MF - let us just call it Centrs and perhaps note somewhere in "Understand" how we included the bit with Central Market and the Academy of Sciences. [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 19:15, 5 July 2016 (UTC) :::Let's do this. Uploading a new version of the static map right now with a larger Centrs. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:15, 8 July 2016 (UTC) ::::{{done}}. So, now there are four things left to do: ::::1. listingfying and adding POIs that Alexander suggested above to Outer East Bank and Pardaugava {{done}} ::::2. fixing Riga's Understand section (those oddities) and/or otherwise incorporate the information into the article {{done}} ::::3. expanding some of the shorter sections in the main Riga article insofar as possible ::::4. trying to find a couple more POIs for Eat and Drink (possibly Sleep too) for the two outer districts, possibly the chains mentioned in the main article's Eat section. {{done}} [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:23, 8 July 2016 (UTC) == Connections in Riga == {{swept}} In about a week, I and my girlfriend are going to Riga, Latvia. Our hotel is very near the centre of the city, at Kaleju iela, almost right next to the railway station and close to the river. How do we get there from Riga airport? [[User:JIP|JIP]] ([[User talk:JIP|talk]]) 19:37, 16 June 2016 (UTC) :Reposted at the tourist office. [[User:JIP|JIP]] ([[User talk:JIP|talk]]) 20:26, 16 June 2016 (UTC) == A Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item has been nominated for deletion == The following Wikimedia Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item has been nominated for deletion: * [[commons:File:Monumento a la Libertad, Riga, Letonia, 2012-08-07, DD 13.JPG|Monumento a la Libertad, Riga, Letonia, 2012-08-07, DD 13.JPG]]<!-- COMMONSBOT: discussion | 2022-08-18T09:42:20.896310 | Monumento a la Libertad, Riga, Letonia, 2012-08-07, DD 13.JPG --> Participate in the deletion discussion at the [[commons:Commons:Deletion requests/Files in Category:Freedom monument (Riga)|nomination page]]. —[[User:Community Tech bot|Community Tech bot]] ([[User talk:Community Tech bot|talk]]) 09:42, 18 August 2022 (UTC) :No FoP in Latvia. Do we want this? <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 10:16, 18 August 2022 (UTC) ::It's a featured picture, but the statue is pretty small when it's used as a thumbnail. I wouldn't say it's obligatory, but then again, I've never been to Riga. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:59, 19 August 2022 (UTC) == Nightlife == It's good to have a list of fraudulent clubs. But wouldn't it be nice if you could recommend a few good clubs as well. [[User:Steinbach|Steinbach]] ([[User talk:Steinbach|talk]]) 18:46, 10 July 2025 (UTC) mqw08iozfi6rgolnvqx3f0nz8to6uji 5091012 5091011 2025-07-10T18:46:40Z Steinbach 1492831 /* Nightlife */ 5091012 wikitext text/x-wiki == External links == Removed External Links from article, see [[Project:Article_templates#Where_did_the_"External_links"_sections_go?|Where did the "External links" sections go?]]'. I've stashed them herre in the event someone wishes to incorporate any of these into the article in the customary way. --[[User:(WT-en) SHC|(WT-en) SHC]] 16:36, 3 June 2006 (EDT) http://www.riga.lt http://www.riga.lv/EN/Channels/About_Riga/default.htm http://www.riga-airport.com/ '''Riga Public Transport:''' http://www.ttp.lv/ (Trolleybus and Tramway) http://www.rigassatiksme.lv/maps.php (Interactive Route map) ==Riga Card== I'm wondering: Should the Riga card, which covers both transportation and attractions, go under Get Around or See, with a mention in the other? I'm thinking See --Rastapopulous :I also think '''See''', since the reader will see it with the list of attractions. You wouldn't buy it for the transport alone, but you may buy it for the attraction admissions alone. [[User:(WT-en) Andyfarrell|(WT-en) Andyfarrell]] 08:10, 12 November 2009 (EST) ==Categorizing== Does anyone else know what categories the remaining restaurants are in? --Rastapopulous :I'm trying to figure out a scheme for categorizing the restaurants. Anyone have any ideas? I'm afraid I'm not very good at this. [[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 18:06, 13 November 2009 (EST) ==Lido Entertainment Center== This will be a nightmare, especially considering I've never been there, but I am going to try and take on this listing. Does anyone know if by "holidays" on the website (in the section w/ the hours), they really mean "weekends"? [[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 14:29, 11 November 2009 (EST) :Looks like you made a decent stab at it. By the way, the convention is to add new items on talk pages at the bottom. [[User:(WT-en) Andyfarrell|(WT-en) Andyfarrell]] 08:10, 12 November 2009 (EST) :Okay, I've split it up a bit now. Anyone have any idea whether the "Russian-themed" restaurant is what's on the middle floor? [[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 18:04, 13 November 2009 (EST) ::No, the whole thing appears to be Russian-themed; the middle floor is simply the main (and largest) area. [[User:(WT-en) Andyfarrell|(WT-en) Andyfarrell]] 09:02, 15 November 2009 (EST) :::Okay. What exactly is on the middle floor anyway, that's different from the other two? [[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 16:30, 15 November 2009 (EST) ==Duplicate listing== I have the suspicion that this listing: *The markets next to International Bus Terminal are full of people selling their wares at stalls, both inside the large halls and around the outside. The market is actually quite non-touristy with more emphasis on selling things like second-hand clothing, food, furniture or kitchen supplies. In here you can buy almost anything... Very good for souvenirs. There are lots of small cafes scattered around the markets that serve up cheap local eats. Is the same as the Central Market. It is pretty close to the bus terminal. Can anyone confirm/deny this?[[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 21:48, 12 November 2009 (EST) ::Yes, now I look at it in detail I'm sure you're right. There were stalls outside the back of CM, the descriptions of the things on sale are right. Descriptions of where buses ran from were vague - some said Central Market, some said the Stockmann centre. These were positioned either side of the main railway station, and I don't know where the ''International'' Bus Terminal would be. I say delete it as a duplicate item or merge some text. [[User:(WT-en) Andyfarrell|(WT-en) Andyfarrell]] 03:51, 13 November 2009 (EST) :::Do you think I should merge them into Buy or See? I think Buy. [[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 11:18, 13 November 2009 (EST) ::::Either one works, as it's a bit of both, so go with your preference. [[User:(WT-en) Andyfarrell|(WT-en) Andyfarrell]] 11:43, 13 November 2009 (EST) :::::The listings have been merged together and placed into the Buy section. [[User:(WT-en) Rastapopulous|(WT-en) Rastapopulous]] 16:54, 13 November 2009 (EST) == image budget hotels in the journey's time == <nowiki>[[Image:Doc_budget_hotel_riga2-s.jpg|thumb|250px]]</nowiki> This image was done by myself. The data come from google maps and a latvian magazine. I did it for a friend who work in travel agency. I can confirm the data can be used for any document, and I give to everyone the right to use this picture. It's very usefull for customers. Even if it helps the Top 5 of the hotels in this table, it also provide a right information to others. If a guest get a good deal with one hotel, he can decide if want to spend more time in transport or not for such price. But it will not have an unpleasant surprise. [[User:(WT-en) Peterisvalkis|(WT-en) Peterisvalkis]] 11:21, 6 January 2010 (EST) :I'm going to remove this image. The info it presents is a detailed comparison of hotel distances which, presented in any other form, would still likely be eliminated. It also contains a great deal of tiny tiny text, much of it in other languages, and it does not generally fit with our style to present info tables in image form. [[User:(WT-en) Texugo|(WT-en) texugo]] 12:08, 31 October 2011 (EDT) ==Stay Safe== I haven't seen a notice on pickpockets. Be aware, they operate smoothly at the underground passageways connecting old town, 13.janvara iela, stockman centrs and central station. Even the locals say that it is an infamous place for pickpockets. I got robbed from my media player while I was even listening to that device and I didn't see who did it! I have captured a picture of a pick pocketer operating by using a fake hand bag with his arm hidden under it. Maybe I can upload it to this site. From Damian. == Alternative banner for this article? == [[File:Riga Wikivoyage banner.jpg|right|thumb|500px]] In the Hebrew Wikivoyage we are currently using this banner instead of the one which is currently used here. Do you think too that this banner would would better than the existing one? [[User:ויקיג&#39;אנקי|ויקיג&#39;אנקי]] ([[User talk:ויקיג&#39;אנקי|talk]]) 06:55, 23 February 2014 (UTC) : I don't like this banner. First, it is too broad, and each object is so small that it becomes indistinguishable on my 14' screen. Second, it is a 360-deg panorama wrapped into a "linear" image, which makes it confusing: there is only one river in Riga, and you should not see it on both left and right sides of the photo. --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 07:10, 23 February 2014 (UTC) ::Even just purely as a composition, I at least marginally prefer the current banner, although it's a little hazy in the distance.<small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User_talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Ikan Kekek|contribs]]) </small> :::Like Alexander, I find it slightly "disturbing" and unreal to see Daugava River both on the right and the left, hence I prefer the old banner. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:11, 23 February 2014 (UTC) [[File:Riga Wikivoyage banner 2.jpg|right|thumb|500px]] How about this one, I recropped the panorama to avoid "double river effect". [[User:Jjtkk|Jjtkk]] ([[User talk:Jjtkk|talk]]) 19:43, 24 February 2014 (UTC) :That improved it a lot. I would favor replacing the current banner with your recropped image. But I'd like to see what people who know the city have to say, as I've never visited Riga. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:01, 25 February 2014 (UTC) :: This recropped image is now very similar to the old banner. I still weakly prefer the old one, though, because it shows individual landmarks more clearly. --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 04:24, 25 February 2014 (UTC) :::It is very similar cause I like the current banner except the fact that Zeppelin hangars and TV-Tower are cut off and Academy of Sciences is in renovation. When I made the current banner I didn't find the panorama we have now and there were more serious dimension constraints from source photo. [[User:Jjtkk|Jjtkk]] ([[User talk:Jjtkk|talk]]) 10:40, 25 February 2014 (UTC) It would be pretty if anyone who can take photo from the 11. novembra krastmala of Riga, and make banner as this: [[:File:Riga daugava.jpg]]. --[[User:Great Brightstar|Great Brightstar]] ([[User talk:Great Brightstar|talk]]) 05:28, 10 September 2023 (UTC) [[File:Riga Wikivoyage banner 3.jpg|right|thumb|500px]] I created a new banner for this, which captured from a panorama image from west side of Daugava River, and I beliebe this should be worthy of the best view of the city throughout the history (see [[c:Category:Panoramics in Riga]]). --[[User:Great Brightstar|Great Brightstar]] ([[User talk:Great Brightstar|talk]]) 03:19, 16 September 2023 (UTC) :Thanks for creating the new banner. Let's discuss the pros and cons of the different banners. The first banner probably has the best light, except for people who prefer sunsets; the third banner has the most distinctive view but is a little fuzzy; and the second banner is probably sharpest but has the least appealing light. Your thoughts, everyone? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:47, 16 September 2023 (UTC) ::1 and 2 look more appealing than 3, FWIW. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 11:35, 16 September 2023 (UTC) ::Seen from EXIF information from original file, this was taken during a sunset. -- [[User:Great Brightstar|Great Brightstar]] ([[User talk:Great Brightstar|talk]]) 04:43, 19 September 2023 (UTC) :::We'd assumed it wasn't a sunrise, but we have doubts that it's the best of the 3 banners. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:04, 19 September 2023 (UTC) == Bus rental Riga == Its very useful to have a bus rental address, because, people who may visit wiki voyage website are probably planning their trip by them self's, and they are probably looking for a cheaper and a better way to explore Riga and Latvia in this case. If they have a place where they can compare prices with existing bus routes, It may be interesting for them to expand their trip in Riga and Latvia all together. It could be very useful information for people who are traveling in big groups. Or, for travelers, who are just looking for some options and are planning a group tour. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:Oskars123|Oskars123]] ([[User_talk:Oskars123|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Oskars123|contribs]]) </small> :I'll have some arguments later, but perhaps someone would like to address whether bus rental listings have been permitted on any other page on this site, and what reasoning has been used in regard to policy so far. Meanwhile, please wait for a consensus and don't edit war. Thanks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 16:15, 15 May 2014 (UTC) == District split == We now have 58 "See" listings alone, and I believe there are many more to add, not to mention a lack of most of the important "Do" listings. This will probably push the combined number of POIs in those two sections alone to over 100. Moreover, we still have the Eat, Drink and Sleep sections to cover, which will make it something around 200 with the ones we already have and a few more that will probably be added. Further still, it is hard to give a single set of directions on getting around for the POI-filled largely pedestrian Old Town, the dense Centrs and the sparsely sprinkled POIs outside of the Centra rajons. Therefore, my proposal would be to split Riga into three separate articles: * Vecriga * Centrs (may include the bit of Maskavas forstate immediately adjacent to the railway station) * Outer Riga (basically everything outside Centra rajons) I know this seems quite radical and would provide for two relatively small districts and one super-large, but I guess the relative POI density makes it the only reasonable solution. Having separate guides for every of the five outer districts would results with near-empty articles with little chance of being filled with relevant content. Only by combining them do we get a critical mass necessary for a reasonably useful guide. What do you guys think? Should I go forward with that? [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 08:16, 14 July 2014 (UTC) PS. [[User:Ypsilon]], [[User:Jjtkk]], [[User:Abstraktn]], [[User:Nurg]], [[User:Carsten R D]] - I saw you made edits to this article in not-so-distant past. You may perhaps want to weigh in on the above. : What is Centers? I think even locals will be confused, because the center of Riga is the Old Town. : Riga has several well-defined districts, such as Pardaugava (+Daugavgriva), Maskavas forštate (from the central market and Academy of Science to the church of Old Believers and Jewish memorials; an essential part of Riga that most tourists do not know), Vidzemes or Peterburgas priekšpilsēta (with its Jugenstil buldings and industrial architecture). And the rest could be called Outer districts, where places like Mezaparks and ethnography museum will be described. : If you don't feel that you can write about each of these districts, then perhaps keep everything in one article for the time being? --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 03:52, 15 July 2014 (UTC) ::Thanks for chipping in, Alexander! I take it you know Riga very well, so your opinion is very valuable. ::I have in fact never been to Riga, I am just researching it for the coming visit. What I have found is that the Centrs part of the Centra rajons is very often referenced, and that most POIs that are not in Vecriga are located there, including the Jugendstil buildings (Elizabetes, Albertas, Marijas etc.) It seems to me that the official district of Vidzemes priekspilseta is the one further out, where we do not have many POIs. ::Regarding Maskavas forštate, it surely is an important district, but it seems like most POIs, apart from the said Grebenshchikov Church, are actually close to the train station, and there isn't even 10 See items there. So creating a separate guide would provide for a stubby one, so I propose to add this part of the Maskavas forštate to the part on the 19th-century centre (however we call it). ::As regards Pardaugava, there doesn't seem to be more than 10 POIs in total (including hotels and the airport, which isn't even in Riga actually) on the right bank of the river. Therefore, I believe we would be creating an empty shell of an article just to "highlight the significance" of the district, which we can well do by appropriately formulating the "Understand" and "See" (and other) sections of the combined "Outer Riga" article. ::Do take into account that I am looking at Riga from a tourist's point of view, not local's. There may be many well-defined districts that follow, or don't follow, the official borders, but some of them are simply of less interest to the tourist and I guess we should gauge if a district "deserves" a separate guide by looking at the number of POIs first and foremost, not its cultural, historical etc. significance for the locals. Which is not to say we should not mention and emphasize how the locals see Riga, and what they find important, this is only the principle I'd adopt for districtification. ::Finally - no, I cannot write at length about any of those districts much more than is already written, and what I can find in the sources, as I don't know Riga. I was just trying to use the guide to plan my journey and found it unwieldy, due to the extreme concentration of POIs in the Old Town, which I guess could be better described in a separate article, as almost every street has some significance and that would be more of a walking guide. Furthermore, I have found the area that I have found references as "Centrs" similarly filled with POIs to the point that outlying POIs in the other district you mentioned would be distracting. Hence my idea for the split, as those three guides would allow for easy trip planning and would make getting acquainted with the city easier due to the respective POI density. ::Lastly - while I believe I have an idea of all the important "See" listings, both already included and still to be added (which I plan on doing in due course), I may be very wrong on that. Would you be so kind and try to '''add the ones you believe are missing''' so that we could get a better idea of the concentrations of POIs on the map and then I could better understand your points? ::Again, thank you for joining the discussion - I am very happy to have you, with your obvious knowledge of Riga, on board! [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 05:36, 15 July 2014 (UTC) :::Yeah, Riga is a pretty long article. Been once to Riga, but it was a while ago, so I don't know how much I can help (I added coordinates for everything a few months back but had to use google maps+the address for everything but the most famous sights). IMO it would be logical to divide Riga into four: 1. Vecriga (Old town), 2. Commercial centre or something like that for places around the railway station and northeast of the old town, 3. East bank (east of Daugava outside those two, don't know where to draw the border), 4. West bank. :::Or then Vecriga could just be chopped out as one separate district article, Andrewssi did this to Haeundae beach when districtifying [[[Busan]] for the first time. :::Or we could keep everything here and arrange sights under subheadings for each district and for the sight-dense Vecriga even "sub-subheadings" for different kinds of sights if needed. :::Ps. I'm traveling and won't be editing much this week. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:23, 15 July 2014 (UTC) ::::This article is long enough to be split in my opinion. Old Town/Vecriga should get its own article but I'm not sure about Centrs, I agree it's hard to define its borders while in Riga. I'd go with three "districts": ::::*Old Town - UNESCO listed, one day tourists mostly stay just there ::::*East Bank (with POIs along Brivibas iela and in Maskavas forštate) for those who have a bit more time ::::*West bank (with islands on Daugava) - not much to see there really ::::This way borders are well defined and we don't have on huge outer district (which I think are very impractical). That's how I dealt with Riga when I stayed there for two weeks or so. [[User:Jjtkk|Jjtkk]] ([[User talk:Jjtkk|talk]]) 08:06, 15 July 2014 (UTC) Well, "Riga for tourists in 2 days" does not need any districts. It should be all about the Old Town plus few points next to its borders. This is what most people see, and one single article covers it very well, even though it will be a long article. But one article is always better than 2-3 articles, because you don't have to jump from one text to another every time you cross the boulevards and leave the Old Town. I emphatically disagree with statements like "not much to see there really", and I can start adding POIs (how many POIs do you want? how many POIs warrant a separate district?) but this will bring us to a discussion whether each of these POIs is important or not. I also don't think that counting POIs makes much sense, because most of the pre-WWII districts have their own ambiance, which is something that you never get from the map. Maskavas forštate, Āgenskalns, Grīziņkalns all deserve a separate walk and will give you a real feel of the city with its rich history and controversial reality, but this is not what most tourists are interested in. Finally, one can easily compare Tallinn and Riga, which are cities of similar size and similar tourist importance. The current version of the Tallinn article is pretty much a dumb-tourist-oriented travel guide fitted into a single article. It mentions Nomme as "another residential district", which is quite funny to read about the richest collection of Estonian buildings from 1920-30-s (the short period of independence), let alone the gorgeous Glehn's manor, but indeed nobody goes there because it is not featured in popular travel guides. The current version of Riga article is a similar mainstream tourist thing, and it should fit into one article as well. Whenever we have other people who are interested in non-mainstream things, a proper district scheme can be developed. --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 09:17, 15 July 2014 (UTC) :[[User:Alexander]], first of all - if you know of more POIs, '''by all means do add them''' (both to [[Riga]] and [[Tallinn]] - we have only 2 weeks until Tallinn goes onto the front page!). You are a seasoned contributor, I seriously doubt we would have any qualms about any POI you may add. Some of them may be "less important", but I guess that's what guides are all about - if we provide and appropriate description, it is up for the tourist to decide what they find important and interesting for them. The more choice and more in-depth information, the better. There is no point dumbing things down. :I believe there is a certain number of POIs that can serve as a good rule of a thumb if a district should be carved out. I'd say this should be around 25 POIs in the See & Do sections combined. May just as well not work everytime, but I believe districtification is first and foremost a way for us to reign in overly long lists of listings. For areas that are interesting, but not really filled with POIs in the strictest sense, a good way is to give them a descriptive and attractive description, e.g. telling tourists that it is worth going there for a stroll and experience the wooden architecture of 19th-century ambiance, particularly along XX and YY streets. We don't need a separate article for that. :OTOH, I cannot agree with you that everything that a "casual tourist" (I wouldn't call them dumb - attractions that are the most popular tend to be so because the most people are interested in them, let us leave judging people's tastes aside) may want to see in Riga is in the Old Town or "next to its borders". First off, Riga's Old Town is very unique in the way that it is quite clearly separated from other parts of town by a river, canal, belts of green and two main roads. Going from the Old Town into other parts requires a conscious decision and I believe tourists can easily see they are going into another district, plus there is a bit of a walk (or a bus ride!), significantly more than between the POIs within the Old Town, between the Old Town and the 19th century Riga. :It is easy to walk from Elizabetes into Albertas, or further into Marijas, Krisjana Valdemara or Baznicas. Just like moving between Doma, Livu and Ratslaukums is a matter of turning around a corner. This is why both of this areas could use walking guides that one could constantly reference while they walk. But crossing the canal is a longer walk and then we can advise the tourist to turn to a different guide, where a different set of instructions would be given (e.g. we pretty much don't have to mention trams for the Old Town, but could discuss individual lines when dealing with 19th century Riga, which is how I understand "Centrs"). :[[User:Ypsilon]] - thanks for chipping in and finding time for that during your "voyaging"! Seems like your first impression is the same as mine, with the difference that you would split out the west bank entirely. [[User:Jjtkk]] thank you as well! With regard to your comment - is the Old Town enough for a day? What about the Elizabetes, Albertas and other 19th-century streets? I guess they may be even more of a draw than the Old Town itself. At any rate, putting Elizabetes and Albertas, as well as the Academy of Science and Central Market, in the same article with outliers like Mezaparks would not provide for a hnady guide IMHO, which is why I proposed to split them in the first place. :What I would propose is for us to start the Old Town article (we seem to all agree this is a separate, well-defined, touristy or not, part of Riga), and I would propose for you to reconsider my proposal for a Centrs article to avoid putting stuff "close to the Old Town but requiring a bit of a walk or two bus stops" and "requiring an hour's bus ride" together. Then we could leave out everything else in the "Outer Riga" article (and continually add to it) and see if any of the further districts mentioned emerges from that as a useful material for a guide. How about this? [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 20:03, 15 July 2014 (UTC) :: Don't you want to see Riga first? Honestly, I find it very strange when one writes about the city without visiting it. This is something like writing travel guides on the basis of other travel guides and copying their bugs instead of providing your own view based on first-hand travel experience. :: Regarding extra POIs, I intentionally refrained from editing the Tallinn article, because it is a good and concise travel guide for a first-time visitor. If I now add 50+ POIs (which is very easy to do), we will have to split the article into districts, write overview texts explaining what to see and why, etc. I don't have enough time to do it myself (in fact, I do it, but very slowly and [[:ru:Таллин|in Russian]]), and I don't see other editors having deep knowledge of the city (same for Riga, unfortunately). Therefore, I strongly recommend to keep the article as basic as possible. However, if you want to see Riga beyond standard tourist attractions, here is a list (which is by far incomplete). --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 11:16, 16 July 2014 (UTC) :::Either this is a wiki about voyages and we treat it seriously and add content as we go - as it occurs to us, as we have the time - or we are trying to write a perfect offline travel guide. I would hope we all truly accept the perpetually imperfect nature of our guides stemming from the sole fact that they are being created that way. I don't think we should '''EVER''' refrain from editing, or adding to, a guide for fear of making it "less perfect". This work is never finished and we should never stop just because it is "good enough for now". :::So, if you find the below worth recommending to me, they are worth recommending to any other traveller who might stumble upon our guide. Why don't you start adding them to the article (same goes for [[Tallinn]]) and my observation is that this usually starts a snowball effect of other users getting interested, chipping in their knowledge, copyediting and such. So there is no need to worry that you will just add 50 POIs and nothing will happen. Please do just that, and things WILL happen. [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 20:40, 16 July 2014 (UTC) :::PS. Regarding the fact I edit this guide BEFORE visiting Riga - I did it several times for places I haven't been before since I started at Wikivoyage, and I found that I usually had little to add or change after I visited the place. There is a surprising breadth and depth of information if you are an inquisitive and imaginative traveller - be it online, on paper or to be got directly from those in the know. :::PS2. If after all that we shall see that there is a good reason for districtification of a certain area, it will be done in due course (and again, you will see that even if you don't have the time to write intros and such, somebody will). I would only suggest keeping POIs under headings of districts you may think may emerge, it will make the districtification easier (and will help the travellers anyway, regardless of whether we districtify or not). :::: Well, I did what I deemed necessary, and now I will step back to see how the wiki mechanism handles this information. --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 22:25, 16 July 2014 (UTC) :::::The borders of the old town are not a problem, I'd say. These would be Daugava, Vansu bridge/Krisjana Valdemara iela, Pilsetas kanals and 13 Janvara. But where the border between the "commercial centre" and the outer districts is not as straightforward. :::::As for now, however I'm fine with keeping the article as one. :::::Also, if we are going to add a lot of sights with the aim of making districts we should also look into adding other types of POIs. I remember - Alexander for sure also does - the case with Moscow a few months back when a certain user added everything that could be considered a sight (I think there was close to 300 in one of them) and no additional restaurants, stores, hotels and bars and the article looked like an Opel Corsa with 50 sacks of cement in the trunk... [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:19, 17 July 2014 (UTC) === List of POIs by [[User:Atsirlin]] to be added to the article === '''Maskavas forštate:''' * Red warehouses. A huge cluster of mid-19th century warehouses between the train station and Central Market. They remind of the former trade harbor. <!--* [http://www.rgm.lv/ Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum]. Maskavas iela 14A. Old house moved from the ghetto area. History of Holocaust and Jewish Resistance in Latvia, models of Latvian synagogues. --> * St. Francis Church (Katoļu iela 16). Built in 1892, a gorgeous neo-gothic building in the middle of slums. Features copies of Giotto's mural paintings in the Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. * All Saints Church (Katoļu iela 10). Orthodox church built in neo-Romanic style around 1880. Unlike other orthodox churches in Latvia, which are typically Russian in their style and nature, this one was designed by a Latvian architect. * Church of John the Baptist (Kalna iela 21). Construction started in 1913-14 but it was not finished before the Russian Revolution and continued in 1920s when Latvia became independent. This led to a strange mix of styles rendering the church a rare example of modernist architecture implemented in an Orthodox temple. The adjacent Ivanovskoe cemetery is the main Orthodox cemetery of Riga. * Church of Our Lady of Kazan (Kalna iela 21). Another church on the same cemetery. Build of wood in 1812-15 in a somewhat awkward style with 5 small domes sitting on a massive drum. * Church of Gregory the Illuminator (Kojusalas iela 5). Armenian church built in 2011. * Old New Synagogue (Altnaie Schul, Maskavas iela 57). The only synagogue that survived through the WWII. Built in 1889, partially restored after the war and converted into a residential building. * Church of Michael Archangel (Maskavas iela 170). Old Believers church from 1894-95, nice example of the Russian Revival style. * Horse-drawn omnibus (Maskavas iela, crossing with Mazā Kalna iela). A funny monument commemorating the first Riga tram that was driven by horse power. An old iron construction nearby reminds of the former Hay Market. * Old Jewish cemetery (between Tējas iela and Ebreju iela). A huge area that reminds of the Jewish population of Maskavas forštate. Established in early 18th century, this cemetery kept expanding till the beginning of 20th century. After all local Jews were exterminated by the Nazis during WWII, Soviet government destroyed the remaining gravestones and converted the area into a Park of Communist Brigades. Nowadays, there is a small Jewish memorial. '''Āgenskalns:''' * St. Martin's Church (Slokas iela 34). Lutheran church from 1850s. Its decorations are fairly plain, but the location among the trees is remarkable. * Baptist Church (Mārupes iela 14). A mix of cultures and styles. Built in 1913-16, this church had neither a tower nor a dome and resembled a simple residential building. The tower was added in 1936. Baptist services continued until 1961 and resumed shortly after Latvia re-gained its independence. * Trinity church (Mārupes iela 2). A fine example of Russian style from the very end of 19th century. Don't miss rich decorations as well as eye-catching mural paintings and icons inside. * Methodist church (Slokas iela 6). A fairly bland building from 1930s. However, the very presence of a big methodist church in Riga is remarkable. * Church of St. Albert (Liepājas iela 38). Baroque edifice from early 20th century. The interior of the church was partly designed in 1950s despite the official atheist propaganda that was widely imposed in the Soviet Union. <!--* Market (Nometņu iela 64). An impressive building from 1911-23 marks the central square of Āgenskalns where as many as 6 different streets cross. Apart from being a decent traditional market, this building is remarkable as a red-brick manifestation of Jugendstil architecture in Riga. * National Library (Mūkusalas iela 3). An important part of the West Bank's cityscape, the National Library was built in 2008-13. It is perhaps the most remarkable part of the "New Riga" giving a more gentle feel to skyscrapers and other high-tech buildings that were recently constructed on the West Bank of the Daugava. The building was nicknamed the "Castle of Light", and the architect intended to mimic the towers of Vecriga, although casual tourists may rather see it as a cruise ship that has just arrived from the Baltic Sea and is anchored across the river from the Old Town. * [http://www.botanika.lu.lv Botanical garden] (Kandavas iela 2). Nice park featuring every type of plant growing in the Baltic States and North-Eastern Europe.--> '''Grīziņkalns:''' * St. Paul's Church (Augusta Deglava iela 1). Neogothic church from 1885 marks the center of Riga's main industrial neighborhood. Most of the mural paintings are from 1930s and represent the art of independent Latvia before WWII. * Two gas storage buildings from 1882 and 1901 (end of Matīsa iela) are landmarks of the old gas factory in Riga. These enormous structures reaching 40 m in diameter are probably the largest buildings of their kind in Eastern Europe. Note the pressure meter that mimics a clock. * Baptist church (Matīsa iela 50b). Light neo-Romanic building from 1867 looks completely alien to its dark industrial neighborhood. * Twin water towers located at the crossing of three railway lines (Mazā Matīsa iela) are known among locals as Anna and Zhanna (Ann and Joan). Legend has it that Anna was a skilled quack in medieval Riga. She was accused in being a witch and burnt to death. This triggered her sister Zhanna to commit suicide. Their ashes were brought to a place that was considered wicked, which is exactly the triangle between the railway lines where the water towers are located. This place is indeed quite strange and renowned for its remoteness dominated by a huge cemetery and a prison. The water towers from 1885-87 are very pretty, though, and seen from afar. * Matisa cemetery adjacent to the water towers has an interesting monument to the heroes of the Russian Revolution of 1905. The monument was built during the time of Soviet occupation (1956-59) and represents the typical gloomy-gray concrete style of Latvian military monuments constructed after WWII. Another and equally gloomy 1905 monument is in the small park on Grīziņkalns hill on Pērnavas iela. * Valmieras iela and adjacent streets boast gorgeous industrial buildings from late 19th century. The largest factory was Russo-Balt that produced first cars and airplanes in the Russian empire. Most of these buildings are now abandoned and derelict but quite interesting to see. You will find lots of old plaques, signboards and other 100-year old artifacts. == Bar scams, language school scams == Are those still current issues? Can't find any info on that on the US embassy site. Can anybody more in the know confirm if we should keep all those lenghty infoboxes about those? [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 12:43, 20 July 2014 (UTC) : I can't comment on the language schools. Regarding the bars, I suggest to remove the list and extend the text in the Stay Safe section. I am not sure whether such things are still common, but they might exist, similar to taxi drivers who tend to drive you for a fixed price instead of using the meter. --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 12:55, 20 July 2014 (UTC) == Confusing picture == [[File:Silja Europe in Riga harbour.jpg|thumbnail|right|The port of Riga has regular ferry connections to Stockholm]] It may well be true that Riga has regular ferry connections to Stockholm, but this picture is confusing. I took the picture myself in Riga, and that ship was going to Turku, not Stockholm. And besides, it was a special Christmas cruise. Normally it doesn't even go to Riga but sails between Stockholm and Turku. [[User:JIP|JIP]] ([[User talk:JIP|talk]]) 10:56, 24 July 2014 (UTC) :Or it did at the time. Apparently it now sails between Helsinki and Tallinn. [[User:JIP|JIP]] ([[User talk:JIP|talk]]) 10:58, 24 July 2014 (UTC) ::Tallink sails from Stockholm to Riga, but not with Europa ([http://www.hs.fi/talous/Silja+Europa+lähtee+Australiaan+ja+muuttuu+kelluvaksi+majapaikaksi/a1405916962670 which we BTW won't see around for a while]). But showing both a passenger ferry and the terminal I think it is the best photo we [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Water_transport_in_Riga currently have on Commons]. --[[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:20, 24 July 2014 (UTC) :::I put that picture with the caption there for the very reason outlined by Ypsilon. ''Silja Europa'' and ''Romantika'' aren't that totally different in terms of ship type and size. This picture is just to show that Riga has a ferry terminal that handles large passenger ferries of that size - and currently the only regular ferry connection is to Stockholm. [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 20:21, 24 July 2014 (UTC) == Oddities in the Understand section == ''Much of the old town was either destroyed by fire or destroyed by the Germans in World War II and remained in ruins until it was rebuilt in the late 1990s, mainly to make Riga attractive as a tourist destination.'' The only important building rebuilt in 1990s is the House of Blackheads. USSR-time tourists would be surprised to know that the beautiful (and by far less crowded than today) Old Town "remained in ruins" at the time when they admired it ''It is surrounded by a ring of ~19th–early 20th century architecture, followed by a mix of private 2-floor house districts (many also pre-WW2) and Soviet-era 5-18 floor apartment districts, with an occasional factory (especially near railroad lines)'' Given the fact that Riga was the second largest industrial center of the pre-1917 Russian Empire, "occasional factories" essentially fails to describe the amount of old industrial buildings that are still preserved in the city ''The term "centre" loosely refers to quite a large area around Old town limited by the river to the west, the railroad lines to the east and south, and without a definite boundary to the north.'' If you allude to Peterburgas forstate, that district has a well-defined northern boundary, the railway. ''As such, much of the architecture in Riga has been heavily influenced by Germany.'' ??? Despite its German name, Riga Jugendstil was developed by the local architect Sergey Eisenstein who was largely inspired by the French architecture of art nouveau. Wooden houses, orthodox churches, Latvian pre-WWII architecture... they have nothing to do with Germany. ''There are many administrative districts in Riga; however, almost all tourist attractions, historic buildings and hotels are contained within the borders of Centra rajons, which is relatively small and walkable. The outer districts do have their own draws, but they may require significant travel time and would not be of interest to a sporadic visitor.'' I am sorry, but that's bullshit. The outer districts are of little interest because they are not covered in the travel guide that we read before going to Riga and writing this article. Is it what you mean? --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 18:40, 27 May 2016 (UTC) :It would be great if you rewrote it to better reflect the city and added the POIs you find missing. [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 21:31, 27 May 2016 (UTC) :: Given the limited amount of my free time, I can't promise that I will do it in the nearest future. --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 15:49, 28 May 2016 (UTC) :::[[User:PrinceGloria]], in the case you wonder, it was Alexander's point #2 and #3 above I tried to address with the edit you just [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Riga&oldid=prev&diff=3018248 reverted]. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 13:07, 3 July 2016 (UTC) ::::I am not sure if discussing Riga's administrative situation in detail in the very opening of the article is necessary to address those, but then I may be missing something at 4:40AM... [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 02:41, 4 July 2016 (UTC) == Districtification, again == At Riga's [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates#Riga|DotM]] nomination, in addition to many other things, it was decided that Riga would benefit from districtification. I would propose 4 districts, as per my 2014 comments above; 1. Old Riga, 2. Centrs, 3. the rest of Daugava's east bank, 4. the west bank (ie. Pardaugava). What do you all say? [[User:PrinceGloria|Prince]]? [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 04:26, 14 June 2016 (UTC) :I disagree, I don't think we have enough content to districtify, nor that Riga would ever need districts. 06:32, 14 June 2016 (UTC)[[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) ::'''See''' and '''Sleep''' are very long for an article of this size (while '''Do''' and '''Buy''' are very short). I guess whether to districtify depends on whether there are more activities and shops to list in the district articles than are listed here already. [[User:LtPowers|Powers]] <small>^{([[User talk:LtPowers|talk]])}</small> 20:59, 15 June 2016 (UTC) :::I've created four district articles in my sandbox: [[User:Ypsilon#Riga]], based on the division above. So, this is what the districts would look like. Except for Get in information (which can be added using a street map and a public transportation network map), all four of them are technically usable. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:53, 1 July 2016 (UTC) ::::They do need introductions and "Understand" though. I'd also call "Old Riga" > "Vecriga" if we go with "Centrs". [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 08:17, 1 July 2016 (UTC) :::::Given that there is nobody opposed to the districtification any longer, I'll move the districts to mainspace now. After this it will be easy to eventually add more POIs etc. (perhaps beginning with the ones Alexander mentioned above), no matter if Riga is on the Main Page in September or not. :::::And to clarify; these districts are not something I single-handedly invented yesterday, but they were discussed already in [[#District_split]] above. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:56, 2 July 2016 (UTC) I think Alexander is right that we went for an odd choice for Centrs borders, leaving out many landmarks. Please go to e.g. Google Maps and type "Centrs" to see the current (?) administrative borders of Centrs and consider applying them instead. I also believe we have an odd cluster of landmarks in Outer East in Maskavas Forstate, which are easily reachable on foot from the Centrs / Vecriga. I would move to consider a districts like "Centrs and Maskavas Forstate" to cover all of the "close" landmarks together - in my experience this is good for planning a visit to Riga. You will probably not have the time to Pardaugava and Outer East unless you stay for at least one night, but for a day visit the entire area is walkable. [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 04:45, 5 July 2016 (UTC) : If the outer borders of Centrs are incorrect that's my mistake and I apologize. We should of course use the official borders for Centrs (or perhaps a slightly simplified/less zig-zaggy version in the north of Centrs which would make it easier for [[ttcf|users navigating around Riga]]). I checked out the borders sometime in May when it still was possible to see the borders on our dynamic map (last week and now that functionality is broken and also in http://maps.wikivoyage-ev.org/w/geomap.php no borders show up no matter how many times you check and uncheck the boundary box in the menu) and now had to draw it up out of memory. Luckily [https://www.google.fi/maps/place/Centrs,+Central+District,+Riika,+Latvia/@56.9582454,24.1018083,14z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x46eecfcec3ba0f81:0xc4ea58d09728848f!8m2!3d56.9571271!4d24.1156197 Google Maps] provides the correct borders and I will try to amend them within a few days most importantly with respect to the westernmost corner. Right now our Centrs article also includes a small triangle northeast of the railway station which apparently isn't officially part of Centrs, but I guess it's no harm in keeping it there. : Maskavas forstate is a hard one; the POIs with the central market are indeed close to the old town but the district officially stretches 2-3 kms southeast. Alternatively we could cut off just the westernmost part of Mf (for instance along Lacplesa iela) and include just that part in the Centrs article ("Centrs and Inner East") but I somehow guess that not everyone would be happy with such a solution. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 06:52, 5 July 2016 (UTC) :: I did not realize the depth disproportion between Centrs and MF - let us just call it Centrs and perhaps note somewhere in "Understand" how we included the bit with Central Market and the Academy of Sciences. [[User:PrinceGloria|PrinceGloria]] ([[User talk:PrinceGloria|talk]]) 19:15, 5 July 2016 (UTC) :::Let's do this. Uploading a new version of the static map right now with a larger Centrs. [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:15, 8 July 2016 (UTC) ::::{{done}}. So, now there are four things left to do: ::::1. listingfying and adding POIs that Alexander suggested above to Outer East Bank and Pardaugava {{done}} ::::2. fixing Riga's Understand section (those oddities) and/or otherwise incorporate the information into the article {{done}} ::::3. expanding some of the shorter sections in the main Riga article insofar as possible ::::4. trying to find a couple more POIs for Eat and Drink (possibly Sleep too) for the two outer districts, possibly the chains mentioned in the main article's Eat section. {{done}} [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:23, 8 July 2016 (UTC) == Connections in Riga == {{swept}} In about a week, I and my girlfriend are going to Riga, Latvia. Our hotel is very near the centre of the city, at Kaleju iela, almost right next to the railway station and close to the river. How do we get there from Riga airport? [[User:JIP|JIP]] ([[User talk:JIP|talk]]) 19:37, 16 June 2016 (UTC) :Reposted at the tourist office. [[User:JIP|JIP]] ([[User talk:JIP|talk]]) 20:26, 16 June 2016 (UTC) == A Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item has been nominated for deletion == The following Wikimedia Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item has been nominated for deletion: * [[commons:File:Monumento a la Libertad, Riga, Letonia, 2012-08-07, DD 13.JPG|Monumento a la Libertad, Riga, Letonia, 2012-08-07, DD 13.JPG]]<!-- COMMONSBOT: discussion | 2022-08-18T09:42:20.896310 | Monumento a la Libertad, Riga, Letonia, 2012-08-07, DD 13.JPG --> Participate in the deletion discussion at the [[commons:Commons:Deletion requests/Files in Category:Freedom monument (Riga)|nomination page]]. —[[User:Community Tech bot|Community Tech bot]] ([[User talk:Community Tech bot|talk]]) 09:42, 18 August 2022 (UTC) :No FoP in Latvia. Do we want this? <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 10:16, 18 August 2022 (UTC) ::It's a featured picture, but the statue is pretty small when it's used as a thumbnail. I wouldn't say it's obligatory, but then again, I've never been to Riga. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:59, 19 August 2022 (UTC) == Nightlife == It's good to have a list of fraudulent clubs. But wouldn't it be nice if you could recommend a few good clubs as well? [[User:Steinbach|Steinbach]] ([[User talk:Steinbach|talk]]) 18:46, 10 July 2025 (UTC) aecpj4j15su081xqfwok4ytp81k6679 4 68782 5090877 5090441 2025-07-10T14:47:47Z ChubbyWimbus 109402 /* Expo 2025 */ 5090877 wikitext text/x-wiki {{shortcut|[[Dotm]]<br>[[Otbp]]<br>[[Ftt]]}} Here we determine which articles are featured on the [[Main Page]] as [[Previous Destinations of the month|Destination of the month]] (DotM), [[Previously Off the beaten path|Off the Beaten Path]] (OtBP) and [[Previous Featured travel topics|Featured travel topics]] (FTT). ==Nominate== You can nominate any '''article''' you would like to see featured. Any destination, region, itinerary or event that passes the "[[Project:What is an article?|What is an article?]]" test is eligible for nomination. However, ''before'' nominating, please check that the article follows these basic guidelines: * The nominated article should have an [[Project:article status|article status]] of '''''guide'' or ''star'''''. This includes having at least one good picture, and listings/headers/etc. that match our [[Project:manual of style|manual of style]]. * The nominated article must not have been featured since Wikivoyage became a WMF project in 2013. ** See [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], and [[Previous Featured travel topics]] to check. * If the article has been nominated previously but failed, any objections should be addressed before nominating it again. ** Check the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|slush pile]]. ** If you think a once-slushed destination is now ready to go, list it as new, but with a pointer to the slush pile entry. ** The article should preferably be nominated 3 to 12 months before the intended feature date; ready to feature as is, or with edits that can be done well before featuring. Well-known and/or popular destinations should be nominated as '''Destination of the Month''', while more obscure destinations should be nominated for '''Off the Beaten Path'''. '''Featured Travel Topic''' includes travel topics, phrasebooks, itineraries, and other articles not part of the [[Wikivoyage:Geographic hierarchy|geographic hierarchy]], as well as airports (as they are not usually destinations in their own right). Where applicable, you should propose a good time to visit the destination as a month to be featured. The basic format of a nomination is as follows: <span style=color:green><nowiki>{{FeatureNom</nowiki> <nowiki>| place=Destination</nowiki> <nowiki>| blurb='''[[Destination]]''' is a place of contrasts, and as such it...</nowiki> <nowiki>| status=Guide</nowiki> <nowiki>| time=March-June</nowiki> <nowiki>| nominatedBy=~~~~</nowiki> <nowiki>| comment=Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime.</nowiki> <nowiki>| DotMImage=[[File:Destinationimage.jpg|thumb|300px]]</nowiki> <nowiki>}}</nowiki></span> Add a nomination to the ''end'' of the appropriate section. ==Discuss== You can comment on any nomination based on timeliness and adherence to the criteria above, just add a bullet point (*) and your signed opinion. <nowiki>===[[Destination]]===</nowiki> <nowiki>Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime. TravelNut 25:25, 31 Feb 2525 (UTC)</nowiki> <span style=color:green><nowiki>* Looks nice, but shouldn't the Do section contain more than just quilting contests? ~~~~</nowiki></span> Please note that the following are '''not''' considered valid reasons to oppose a nomination: * '''"I don't like it."''' All objections have to be based on the guidelines above: poor formatting, missing information, etc. Personal opinions, dislikes, etc. do not count. * '''"Wrong time of year."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Timing can be worked out later. * '''"Wrong type of place."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Whether it's DotM or OtBP can be worked out later. ==Select== If an article gets '''three''' comments in favor and no (unresolved) comments against, it's eligible to be placed in an appropriate time-slot in the '''Upcoming''' queue. If the objections are relatively minor and are being worked on, add them to the '''Upcoming''' queue tentatively (add a question mark "?" after the article). Feel free to move the queue around or swap articles if it makes sense. If a nomination clearly does not make the grade and if the objections are not easily fixable, they go into the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|Slush pile]] ([[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile/{{CURRENTYEAR}}|current slush pile]]). Once a nomination has been scheduled, an appropriate banner image and text blurb must be selected. Go to [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners]] to start that discussion. ==Archive== Discussions for previously selected destinations are kept in the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Archive|Archive]]. ==Upcoming== ===Schedule=== The following queue should contain about the next few months' worth of upcoming destinations. Note that new DotMs are rotated in on the '''1st''' of each month, OtBPs on the '''11th''' and travel topics on the '''21st'''. {|border="1" cellspacing=0 cellpadding="3" style="text-align:center" !Month !DotM !OtBP !FTT |- ! align="right" | July 2025 | <s>[[Cuzco]] – pending stronger consensus to support</s> | [[Forillon National Park]] | [[Sound of Music]] – pending minor fixes |- ! align="right" | August 2025 | [[Gothenburg]] – pending minor fixes | [[Paldiski]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus | [[Gemstones]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus |- ! align="right" | September 2025 | [[Canberra/Civic]] | [[Bowling Green (Ohio)]] | [[Rail travel in Great Britain]] |- ! align="right" | October 2025 | [[Parahyangan]] – pending stronger consensus to support | [[Sekigahara]] | [[Driving in China]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support |- ! align="right" | November 2025 | [[San Carlos de Bariloche]] – pending stronger consensus to support | [[Andorra la Vella]] | [[San Diego International Airport]] - pending minor fixes and stronger consensus to support |- ! align="right" | December 2025 | [[Hong Kong/Kowloon]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support | [[Saint-Louis]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support | [[Dehydration]] - pending stronger consensus to support |} Try to avoid two overlapping or back-to-back features from the same country, as well as long streaks of features from the same continent. It is customary to wait 24 months between articles from the same or nearby cities. The schedule is not cast in stone. However, any change made to the schedule should have a compelling reason behind it, and should be effected as far in advance as possible of the article's scheduled term on the Main Page. In particular, unless absolutely necessary, we discourage nominee articles from being slushed or rescheduled after [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners|banners]] have been made for them, which usually happens 2–3 months before being featured. Whenever an article becomes a current feature, it should be removed from the list, the discussion archived, and (when changing out Featured Travel Topics) a new month added to the end of the queue. ===Next changes=== Decisions regarding which images to use as the banners are made at '''[[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners]]'''. The section below provides an opportunity to see what the upcoming featured articles will look like on the [[Main Page]] using the banners that are currently most popular on the above page. {{banner |type=dotm |direction=right |title=Gothenburg |image=GothenburgBanner1.jpg |quote=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months.}} {{banner |type=otbp |direction=left |title=Forillon National Park |image=Forillon National Park OtBP banner.jpg |quote=The final Land's End of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape is an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore. }} {{banner|direction=left|type=ftt|title=Sound of Music|image=SoundOfMusicBanner1.jpg|quote=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. }} ===Updating=== On the date of the scheduled change, the DotM, OtBP, or FTT should be changed as close to midnight UTC as possible. This can only be done by administrators. When the featured page is changed, please follow the following procedures to do so and archive content to the appropriate pages. At each stage, please double-check that you are correctly moving content. Several steps involves copy pasting of the file names of the Main Page banners – former, current, and next – so it can be useful to open those in tabs first. # Update the featured articles on the [[Main Page|main page]] by replacing the current 'banner' template section with those of the appropriate banner for the new DotM/OtBP/FTT found in the ''Next change'' section above. #Update the [[Main_Page/Photo_credits|Photo credits]] page with the banner's '''original image''', title and attribution. # Add the former featured article to the appropriate archive page: [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], or [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. # For the former featured article, add the appropriate parameter to the pagebanner template (directly after the image filename) to label the page as having been featured previously. #* For former DotMs, add: {{!}}dotm=yes #* For former OtBPs, add: {{!}}otbp=yes #* For former FTTs, add: {{!}}ftt=yes # Remove [[Template:Featurenomination]] from newly featured article. # Archive the newly featured article's nomination. Simply cut-and-paste the nomination section of the newly featured article from this page to [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Archive]]. # Update the '''Next change''' section above by adding the banner from [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Banners|the discussion page]]. View the table in the '''Schedule''' section above to determine what next month's change will be, then update the image and blurb in the "Next change" section with that found in the upcoming featured article's nomination. # In the schedule, use <nowiki><s> and </s></nowiki> to strikethrough the newly featured article. Remove the row from the table if the newly featured article is the FTT. #Archive the newly featured article's banner by cutting-and-pasting all banner suggestions and the associated discussion into [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners/Archive]]. ==Nominations for Destination of the Month== ===[[Gothenburg]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Gothenburg | blurb=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=I've been thinking about nominating this article for quite a while now. Some listings look rather bare-bones and a month or two before the article is featured we should check that all the listings are still in business. And my pet peeve :) – the latter half of the article could use some more photos. | DotMImage=[[File:Gothenburg Central Station (Göteborgs Centralstation) 15393945292.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} <s>* '''Almost''' per nomination. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC)</s> ::'''Support''' now after said fixes. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:41, 24 June 2025 (UTC) * '''Almost''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:50, 2 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Almost''' per others. I think this article looks excellent on the whole. I think the "public baths" section needs a rethink, and certainly needs more detail, but otherwise, I think this one can be made feature-ready in a few months. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:23, 7 January 2025 (UTC) : '''Put on hold?''' Provided that [[Cochabamba]] and [[San Carlos de Bariloche]] have sufficient support votes, and a couple of Nordic destinations are scheduled soon; shall we save Gothenburg for 2026? /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 01:08, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::No. As long as it is a requirement to run articles during months when the weather is suitable, we should not on one hand burn the precious summer slots on articles that can be ran other times of the year, and on the other hand burn the precious articles that can be run also during the winter or shoulder seasons during the summer months. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:28, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::Cochabamba and San Carlos de Bariloche are both in the southern hemisphere, so "summer" is actually December-February. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:23, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::::Well, I meant the months from May-September, the summer months in Canada, the US and (the northern half of) Europe from where maybe 3/4 of our current not yet featured articles are from. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 21:39, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::::Right! I knew what you meant, which is why those two mentioned destinations aren't in competition for the "summer" slots since it will be winter down under. By the way, skiing is popular in my family, so we LIKE places that have snowy, icy winter weather! [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 22:30, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::Yes, so some high-latitude destinations can be featured in local winter, but most temperate and arctic cities are more pleasant in summer – especially those that don't have snowy, icy winter weather in winter, but just darkness (with light pollution destroying even that experience) and slush. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:59, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::I think for Gothenberg it's still more appropriate to feature during the summer. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:04, 1 March 2025 (UTC) ::::::::Yes. Its at the coast and much south from Turku, and while we can experience some beautiful winter weather here, it isn't at all guaranteed for somebody staying for a few weeks or less. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:19, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::::Agreed – it also doesn't help that in much of the Southern Hemisphere those months are also dry season. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:32, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::::: Gothenburg has enough indoor destinations to be meaningful as an off-season destination; it is however best at summer. In any case, the article still has zero support votes, and some issues remain. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:20, 5 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::The issues, resulting in the article not having support votes are is basically the fact that the listings need to be checked for up-to-dateness. This is something which could of course have been done last October when nominating the article, but it's much better to do it closer to the time the article is featured. Especially in the case that someone decides to postpone the featuring of the article time of feature. :::::::Recently Recife was featured, and I checked the listings for the THIRD time over the last couple of years. When doing that I was seriously wondering if the time spent on the featured articles and indeed having featured articles could be better used in developing other articles and other aspects of the site as a whole. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:39, 9 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::It may have zero "support" votes, but in this case we should treat "almost" like a support vote because the main thing that needs to happen before featuring is a quick update. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:40, 9 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Canberra/Civic]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Civic | blurb=The central district of Australia's capital [[Canberra]] is compact but punches well above its weight for eating and shopping, becoming particularly active for Canberra's tulip festival, Floriade. | status=Guide | time=September for Floriade (tulip season) | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:47, 1 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=It has been a guide article since 2022 and most listings are no older than 3 years. Thought it would be a good time to feature this for Canberra's annual tulip festival, Floriade, which happens in nearby [[Canberra/North Canberra|Commonwealth Park]] but the CBD area does become active around that time. | DotMImage=[[File:Autumn in Canberra (01).jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:47, 1 January 2025 (UTC) * The article is fine but Civic is just really... boring? I was trying to come up with a catchy blurb but the above is as good as I could get. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 00:23, 2 January 2025 (UTC) *:Honestly, yeah – it gets quite a bit of talk in the planning sphere and circles but other than that, there's nothing particularly exciting about Civic urban planning aspects aside. But thanks for the better blurb – I too kinda struggled to come up with a good blurb. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:56, 2 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - No gaping holes in the article, all listings have coordinates and overall the article looks good. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. I think this article is close to star status, and is definitely good enough to be featured. I commented further at [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations#Canberra/Civic]]. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:55, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Cochabamba]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Cochabamba | blurb=The fourth-largest city in [[Bolivia]], Cochabamba is known as the "Garden City" for its mild climate year-round, cathedral squares, and shops and restaurants. | status=Guide | time=any (however Dec-Feb/Mar [[:w:Cochabamba#Climate|are apparently quite wet]]) | nominatedBy=<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=I've done significant work on this article today to get it up to guide status. I think there are some good restaurants and hotels missing from this list that I might get to, but the article is already in good shape following the addition of coordinates and the removal of closed businesses. Although a check shows we have featured cities in Bolivia before (as recently as last February), South America seems to be underrepresented overall, so this nomination should help with geographic diversity. | DotMImage=[[File:Cochabamba-Plaza.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} per nom – great work on the updates! --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:32, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:Thanks! I've done some more work on the article since. It's great to see the quality of our coverage of Bolivia, with two of the capitals ([[La Paz]] and [[Sucre]]) already having been featured and [[Santa Cruz de la Sierra]] not far from guide status. Many of the smaller towns are also within striking distance of guide status. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 01:59, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *::ikr – it's such an amazing achievement for a country that doesn't get in the spotlight much. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:25, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - solid article with recent updates by SelfieCity. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:51, 25 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Very close''', it's a nice article but the Understand section could be a little bit longer with a couple of paragraphs about the city's history and climate for example. This would also help keeping that map within the Understand section. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:17, 18 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[San Carlos de Bariloche]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=San Carlos de Bariloche | blurb=The Argentine adventure capital offers great opportunities for skiing, sightseeing, water sports, trekking and climbing amidst the amazing mountainous landscapes of Argentine Patagonia. | status=Guide | time=southern spring | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:27, 14 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=Interestingly, we've never had a DotM from Argentina excluding Iguaçu Falls (but 2 from Uruguay and 2 from Chile) and I figured this would be a good one to start with. It might need another checkup closer to featuring and I am in the process of updating many of the listings + adding coordinates, but otherwise I cannot see why we can't feature this. | DotMImage=[[File:View from the Golf course at Llao Llao.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:27, 14 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' pending some small fixes. Some listings need work (descriptions and coordinates) but nothing major that would prevent this one from being featured. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:58, 14 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} looks complete and up-to-date.[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:19, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Parahyangan]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Parahyangan | blurb=The West Javanese region centred around Java's third largest city of Bandung is an excellent place to hike and admire active volcanoes. | status=Guide | time=May–Oct (dry season + good weather for hiking) | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:24, 6 February 2025 (UTC) | comment=It's not often that we feature region articles, but this one has all articles breadcrumbed beneath it as usable or guide, and this will be our first region feature from Java. Since most of our DotMs are filled up for 2025, this might need to wait until 2026, which I have no issue with (I know [[Medan]] was featured only last month as DotM in January, but I don't think that should pose an issue with scheduling as that's on a completely different island). | DotMImage=[[File:Kawah Putih from the bottom, Bandung Regency, 2014-08-21.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} as per nom statement. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:24, 6 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' could use a "Sleep" section with summary info, pointers to which breadcrumbed destinations have best/most listings, and maybe some mentions of particularly interesting places to stay. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:37, 14 February 2025 (UTC) *:Sleep sections are not standard for region articles, though. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:25, 15 February 2025 (UTC) *::Certainly sleep listings are not standard, but a summary or pointers to outstanding/unique lodgings in the region are traveler-centric and *should* be included in any guide-level region article. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:53, 25 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Hong Kong/Kowloon]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Kowloon | blurb=One of the most densely populated cities on Earth, Hong Kong's mainland portion offers a culture less influenced by the British than the neighboring Island, plus accommodation, dining, and nightlife at a comparative bargain. (blurb from its former nomination) | status=Guide | time=Oct-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:41, 21 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Here's another good Northern Hemisphere winter feature. Slushed in 2016, but the reason was that nearby Macau was to be featured then. The article is extensive and tidy, but as usual the listings need to be checked, updated and coordinates added where needed. | DotMImage=[[File:Kowloon Waterfront, Hong Kong, 2013-08-09, DD 03.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' - ie. updates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:41, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work''' - quite a few outdated listings and many without coordinates. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 19:09, 15 May 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work''' as per the comment. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:49, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[Nairobi]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Nairobi | blurb=There's much to experience in the Kenyan capital - from cultural sites and the contrasting high-rises to parks and wildlife. | status=Guide | time=Jan-Feb, Jun-Sep are the drier months | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:07, 18 June 2025 (UTC) | comment=I just promoted this to guide, as it's a really extensive article and could be a nice feature for e.g. early 2026 (to give us one more African feature in addition to Saint-Louis which could be December's OtBP). As usual, some of the information might have gone out of date since it was added, but given that [https://wikimania.wikimedia.org/wiki/2025:Wikimania Wikimania will take place there in August], there's a good chance that the article will get some fresh content already then, especially if Wikivoyage gets some visibility during the event. | DotMImage=[[File:A lone giraffe in Nairobi National Park.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' as usual. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:07, 18 June 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work.''' As mentioned before, the DoTM category has had very few African destinations; most of them have been in OtBP and FTT. Nairobi is one of the continent's most cosmopolitan cities, and deserves to be featured. However, we should not sacrifice quality for diversity. More venues should have coordinates. The [[safari]] destinations within reach from the city could possibly be grouped together, with some general information. General information on price levels and nightlife would be appreciated. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 12:26, 24 June 2025 (UTC) ==Nominations for Off the Beaten Path== ===[[Sekigahara]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sekigahara | blurb= This quaint mountain town and battlefield, where Tokugawa won control of Japan, gives visitors firsthand insight into feudal Japanese warfare. | status=Guide | time=March-May; October | nominatedBy=[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 11:34, 2 May 2024 (UTC) | comment= This town would be perfect for OTBP, given its importance in Japanese history and its well-developed tourist services. It is a small town with very few dining options and lodging (which might be an issue but might not depending on consensus), but it is close to larger Japanese cities like Maibara and Nagoya and would be a perfect day trip from Kyoto et al., especially since it is on a major train line. It is especially beautiful in the spring when the plum and cherry blossoms bloom, but the Battle of Sekigahara was in October of 1600, so it would also work for an October listing. | DotMImage=[[File:Sekigahara Museum and Watertower.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} Can't see anything that would prevent this from being an OtBP. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 12:07, 2 May 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} Article looks good & the site is important. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:00, 2 May 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} The article is good. Having visited once, I can attest that the historical sites are ''really'' not geared for English-speaking visitors, but the article doesn't pretend otherwise and it's fine for a mildly interesting day trip. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 06:01, 3 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Well, if there are few places to eat and drink and sleep, we can't list any more than there actually is :). I think we should run the Sekigahara in October for the re-enactment of the battle as we will probably already have one Japanese feature sometime next spring ([[Public baths in Japan]] as FTT). --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 08:50, 10 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Not Yet''' With zero "Eat" or "Buy" listings, this article has not earned guide status. We should not be saying things like "some decent restaurants and cafes opened both in the battlefield and around the station". Instead, those restaurants and cafes should be given listings. Sekigahara's website shows that the city has numerous restaurants. Similarly "souvenir shops around town" should be given listings. Other encampments should also be given listings. They will not overwhelm the article and they provide deeper understanding of the battle, especially in an article that says you won't understand if you don't speak Japanese. The article also doesn't list much outside of the battlefield. No War Land? No cave? No mention of the Nakasendo post town (Sekigahara-juku)? How about the opportunity to don samurai outfits? I have been to Sekigahara numerous times. It wasn't really on my radar to edit, but maybe I can try adding things here and there to get it up to standard. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:59, 30 June 2024 (UTC) ::Better to run it in the spring, then, if there's content that needs to be added to the article. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:51, 11 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article now has listings for the sites mentioned in [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]]'s comment, including for restaurants. The article is still at Usable status but can be upgraded to Guide before being featured. --[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 08:12, 10 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. The article has been significantly upgraded and looks like it is in great shape now. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:29, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' Major concerns were addressed, but I think do think October is the most appropriate time to feature it to coincide with the battle. Sekigahara is still pretty cold in March. What is the reason for specifying March-May as the feature months? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:39, 8 January 2025 (UTC) *:I don't see why we can't wait until October – what should replace Sekigahara in March then? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:51, 8 January 2025 (UTC) *:I only suggested March-May because I had visited in March 2023 and it was pleasant and warm, and because the cherry blossoms were starting to bloom. It's fine by me if Sekigahara is rescheduled to October; it's also fine if it's left as-is. [[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 09:41, 14 January 2025 (UTC) *::I've removed it from March, left it as a vacant spot for now. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:43, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - sounds like a cool place. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:55, 19 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Paldiski]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Paldiski | blurb=In this Baltic Sea port you can dive into the remains of the former Soviet Union. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:54, 15 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=Our first feature from the Baltic States in another category than DotM. The article is a translation of a ru-WV Star article by me. The article can possibly be expanded a little, but fact remains that you won't find too many places to eat and drink here (or at least was the case back in 2019 when I visited). | DotMImage=[[File:Sadama street Paldiski Estonia.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' however listings need to be checked preferably a month or so before featuring per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:54, 15 November 2024 (UTC) :*It looks like it could use some copy editing before it's featured. I [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Paldiski&diff=4970208&oldid=4970184 did some]. It will be a viable feature article once this is taken care of, though. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:01, 15 November 2024 (UTC) *'''Close''' per Ikan. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:28, 8 December 2024 (UTC) * '''Needs work'''. The first half of this article is excellent. However, some of the sections such as "Sleep" are seriously lacking. The only hotel listing with information is noted for having bad ratings. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:35, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' - Seems too lightweight to be a "guide". 3 restaurants and 2 hotels seems more inline with "usable" status. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:30, 27 February 2025 (UTC) : Well, as noted in the nomination comment I wouldn't expect there to be much more to add. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:36, 13 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Forillon National Park]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Forillon National Park | blurb=The final Land's End of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape is an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore. | status=Guide | time=June-August | nominatedBy=<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=The article is in excellent shape, with the exception of a couple external links, which are a five-minute fix. | DotMImage=[[File:La Chute - Forillon National Park.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' <s>pending minor fixes</s> {{done}}. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) * The article looks good, so a '''support''' for that. However, I remember that [[Gaspé Peninsula]] where the national park is was [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Slush_pile#Gaspé_Peninsula|nominated for OtBP]] by Andre who wrote many of the articles from this region, so maybe we should put this article too in the OtBP category? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:23, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *:I considered that as well. It seemed a fairly prominent national park, but admittedly, I have never been to Canada so I don't know whether it would be considered "off the beaten path" or not. Any thoughts from our Canadian editors? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]]? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 20:15, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support''' It is not a big name. It may be well-known in Quebec, but most Canadians won't have heard of it. SelfieCity: for the love of all that is good, why ''haven't'' you been to Canada? We are one of only two countries that share a land border with the U.S. And it's pretty nice up here. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:33, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *:Indeed, I do need to visit Canada sometime. Good to know about the location, and I suggest we move this to OTBP. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support as OtBP''' per nom and GZ. Looks great, though the listings might need a last-minute check right before we feature the article. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:46, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ::I have updated many listings, but the hikingbtrails section should be checked to ensure it is still up to date. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:01, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:{{ping|SHB2000}} Given how short summers can be in this part of Canada, I'd suggest making this the July OTBP (per above discussion), giving time to go there in August or early September, and Vaals the August feature. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 02:35, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *::That would also work. I was thinking of featuring this for August given how close by Maine is (on a grand scale), but I can't see it being too much of an issue. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:38, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:::I agree but the [[Gaspe]] region gets much colder going into winter. Regardless the schedule works! <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 03:26, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support''' - Detailed, lively and complete. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:34, 27 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Bowling Green (Ohio)]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Bowling Green, Ohio | blurb="Bee Gee" is centered around its State University with a range of student events and lively pubs during semesters, and a Midwestern small town feel around the year. | status=Guide | time=September 2025 when the college semester has begun? Otherwise Spring or Fall probably | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=A few years ago [[User:Mbrickn|Mbrickn]] improved many articles from Ohio, for instance this one. This is a clean and extensive article that could pretty much be featured today. Mbrickn hasn't been active here as of lately but their great work surely deserves a month on the Main Page, especially as we've apparently never featured anything from Ohio. | DotMImage=[[File:Bowling Green Ohio Main Street.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 20:43, 15 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} Listings may need an update closer to featuring, but other than that, there aren't any glaring issues. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:39, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' Sorry for the late return - I would be happy to review and update if this helps. --[[User:Mbrickn|Mbrickn]] ([[User talk:Mbrickn|talk]]) 19:43, 28 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Andorra la Vella]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Andorra la Vella | blurb='''[[Andorra la Vella]]''' is the capital of a quirky co-principality lodged in the mountains between Spain and France that offers great skiing, hiking, and lots of duty-free shopping. | status=Guide | time=A year-round destination. | nominatedBy=[[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 09:39, 2 February 2025 (UTC) | comment=Andorra is a place that isn't that easy to get to as it hasn't an airport, but it isn't impossible, and it will definitely attract attention from readers interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations. And it would be the first feature for Andorra. | DotMImage=[[File:Andorra la Vella - footpath.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as per my comments on [[Talk:Andorra la Vella]] – it may need some last-minute updates closer to featuring, but that's about it I think (also keeping in mind that despite Andorra la Vella giving the illusion of a capital city, it's still only a small town). --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:07, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per above. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 18:14, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - I've noticed [[User:Ground Zero|your]] great work on the article, hope you're having a great time there, and it's also nice to see a feature from a country we've (unsurprisingly) not had any features from previously. Maybe it'd be suitable as a skiing destination next winter? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:42, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:40, 19 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Happy to have updated this page when I visited in 2018 and see this being featured. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 14:30, 24 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Saint-Louis]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Saint-Louis | blurb=Once the colonial capital of French West Africa, Saint-Louis boasts a world heritage listed old town and lively markets and is a gateway to the Langue de Barbarie National Park | status=Guide | time=Nov-May is the dry season, according to [[:w:Saint-Louis, Senegal|Wikipedia]] | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:05, 21 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=Time to think about some article's for the end of the year. Here's another one of our relatively few African guide articles that we haven't featured yet. I sorted out this article, deleted dead businesses and added coordinates a while ago... but looking at the article history that was apparently back in 2020! So even if it has a lot of content it needs an update again, closer to the time it is featured. | DotMImage=[[File:Saintlouis pont Faidherbe.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Pending update''' per comment, otherwise good to go. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:05, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support, with one question'''. First up, thanks for the updates! It's looking real nice now that it's been updated now. But I do wonder if this is better suited as a DotM? It's reasonably well-known especially as a former colonial capital. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:37, 21 March 2025 (UTC) :: Well, it was five years ago I polished up a couple of articles from parts of the world we don't cover that well, so the listings need to be checked again. It seems Saint-Louis is a place that could work as both as an DotM or an OtBP. On one hand it's one of Senegal's top destinations and as such you will meet other visitors also, but it takes a little effort to get there and Senegal is only 107th in the World tourism rankings (13th in Africa), so I put it in OtBP (and nominated it now because we have fewer candidates in this section), but it can be moved to DotM. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:03, 21 March 2025 (UTC) :::Yeah, you definitely are right that it works both as a DotM and an OtBP. I think I have a slight preference towards DotM because this and [[Dakar]] are likely the only Senegalese destinations that we could ever feature as a DotM. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:11, 21 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[El Cuyo]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=El Cuyo | blurb=Virtually unknown to foreign travelers only a few years ago, El Cuyo beckons to visitors looking for a quiet, natural seaside town to bask in the sun undisturbed by revelers while other visitors seek adrenaline-pumping excitement as they take advantage of the kind of steady sea breezes that make it an ideal kitesurfing destination. It's secluded and just enough of a pain to get to to keep crowds away, but close enough to Cancun that you can get there cheaply and easily within a few hours. | status=Guide | time=Nov-May is the dry season, which is also sunny and warm while much of the northern hemisphere freezes | nominatedBy=[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:57, 7 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Not many Mexican destinations have been featured. Here's one that's very new with nothing outdated. All sections have appropriate content and it should be ready to go whenever a suitable time for it comes up. | DotMImage=[[File:El Cuyo, Yucatan, Mexico Dec 2021 - Boats.jpg|thumb|El Cuyo, Yucatan]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. It might need a bit of cleanup and expansion, but otherwise good to go. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:57, 7 April 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} this is nearly perfect. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:23, 7 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - looks good! (The standard Ypsilon complaint: a couple of photos in the latter half would be nice to have). I was recently thinking about nominating one of the many Mexican guide articles you've been working on, but wasn't sure which to choose. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:08, 11 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Ko Kret]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Ko Kret | blurb=Experience the culture of the Mon people, including their pottery and cuisine, on this island just outside Bangkok | status=Guide | time=Nov-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:42, 21 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Time to think about early 2026's OtBP articles, how about taking our readers to a small river island in Thailand? As usual we have to check if everything listed is still in business and if prices and such details are about right. The lack of coordinates in some listings mean that they may have been added over ten years ago. | DotMImage=[[File:Village1 House.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' - ie. updates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:42, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Close''', pending significant updates + coordinates. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:01, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ==Nominations for Featured travel topic== ===[[San Diego International Airport]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=San Diego International Airport | blurb=The main airport to America's finest city is the busiest single runway airport in the world, | status=Guide | time=Year round, not only because there are people who change planes in the San Diego International Airport, but also because San Diego itself is a good place to visit any time of the year. | nominatedBy=[[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 04:28, 20 August 2024 (UTC)Someonehere12345 | comment=Last time an article from an airport in the United States was featured travel topic, it was November 2019 Atlanta. (please note I do not have a banner in mind, but if anyone does then feel free to bring it up in the destination of the month candidates/banners page. | DotMImage=[[File:San Diego International Airport Oct 7, 2019.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator--[[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 04:32, 20 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' - nicely complete article that's up-to-date. Great airport too, very convenient to the downtown area. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 16:43, 30 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Very very close''' - would be nice to have a few more pictures here and there. Otherwise it's apparently up to date and good to go. As YVR is going on the Main Page next spring, this will probably have to sit around here on the nominations page for a while as we don't want to run similar articles (in this case airport articles) too close to each other in the schedule... --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:58, 20 September 2024 (UTC) *:I just added a few more images [[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 22:45, 23 September 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:02, 4 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Very close'''. "Sleep" would benefit from more detail in the listings. I also think that th Eat and Drink sections should be separated. However, this one looks close to feature-able status. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:37, 7 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Gemstones]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Gemstones | blurb=Many travellers buy gems or jewellery during their journeys. | status=Guide | time=any | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 20:38, 3 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=There are both some fine bargains to be had and some incredibly bad "tourist trap" deals. | DotMImage=[[File:Jade FiveRats.jpg|thumb|Chinese jade pendant|300px]] }} *<s>'''Needs work'''</s> – in particular, the [[Gemstones#Museums|&sect; Museums]] section which is lacking many details and coordinates. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:01, 4 October 2024 (UTC) *: The museums now have coordinates (they already had links to the listings, from where I got the coords), and the collections and gems have wikidata links (except the Three Treasures, which don't seem to have an article in Wikipedia in English). They have descriptions; what more details would be needed? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:12, 4 October 2024 (UTC) *::{{s}} upon further improvements. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:36, 1 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close''' The other parts of the article look good, but surely there must be more than four gemstone museums in the world worth visiting? I would also believe that some mines have visitor centers and/or can be visited as such. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:56, 1 November 2024 (UTC) :: I did a web search & added some I found. :: No doubt more could be done. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 18:04, 1 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close'''. There are still some coordinates and listing details missing, which should be present to feature this article. But I think it is possible to get this feature-ready. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:40, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:I've scheduled this for August –&nbsp;I think that's plenty of time to fix any issues with this article. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:39, 21 January 2025 (UTC) : There are unanswered questions on the talk page about [[Gemstones#Stones]] :: How should this section be organised? Alphabetised? Split up into sections for for precious & semi-precious? :: Some stones get their own headings & subsections, starting at [[Gemstones#Rubies_and_sapphires]]. All the others just have listings. Do we have the mix right? Should other precious stones -- diamond & emerald -- have their own subsections? Perhaps a subsection for quartz minerals since at least a half dozen of those can be used as gems? : I think these should be answered before we feature the article. Suggestions? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 05:48, 6 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Sound of Music]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sound of Music | blurb=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. | status=Guide | time=Spring or summer. 2025 is the film's 60th anniversary. Not sure whether there are public events dedicated to the film. | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 23:32, 3 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=We have had surprisingly few features from [[Austria]]. Previous versions of the country's article (and its blurb in [[Central Europe]]) have criticized the film's stereotypic depictions of the country. This article was recently expanded to give background on the real Trapp family, the German film about them, and the inaccuracies and controversies of ''Sound of Music''. Some more information about how to find and visit the venues might be useful. | DotMImage=[[File:Schloss Leopoldskron Salzburg.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Comment'''. I don't think the musical had anything to do with Hollywood, so the blurb needs tweaking. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:32, 7 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Very very close''' - as discussed on the talk page, a couple of more photos would be nice. Moreover, some of the listings in the end of the article have quite short descriptions. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:14, 7 November 2024 (UTC) *'''Support'''. I watched this film many times as a child,and have much enjoyed doing my share of work on this article to complete it and address all the issues listings-wise, and at this moment it has attained a good shape. It must be mentioned that the term "Hollywood version" is very much used throughout the article, synonymous with "American version", to disambiguate from the 1956 "German version". This metonym is not very accurate, as 20th Century Studios are in [[Century City]] and not Hollywood, but I don't see it as an issue that could prevent the article of making FTT. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 10:54, 20 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:41, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} per Ibaman. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:33, 3 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Driving in China]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Driving in China | blurb=China isn't one of the countries that foreigners commonly explore by driving themselves. If you'd still like to, the first step would be getting a local driving license. | status=Guide | time=Any, though maybe not in mid-winter | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:50, 21 January 2025 (UTC) | comment="Driving in..." articles have been a rare sight on the Main Page in the last couple of years as you can see in [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. Here's an interesting one. The article looks really extensive, but the content and headings perhaps need to be rearranged. On the other hand I don't remember if we have any standard order for the information in driving articles. | DotMImage=[[File:PeopleSquareTraffic.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' per comment. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:50, 21 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:15, 21 January 2025 (UTC) *Definitely needs more copy editing. I edited the lede and part of "Understand," and there was a lot of redundancy and some lack of articles and such. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:05, 31 March 2025 (UTC) === [[Dehydration]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Dehydration | blurb=A condition that may affect travellers in many places and for many reasons. Never pleasant, sometimes fatal. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:Coach Ken, Hydrate or die 120521-F-WX664-210.jpg|thumb]] | comment=The most common causes are severe [[diarrhea]], sweating a lot in [[hot weather]] or during strenuous activity such as a [[marathon race]], and water evaporating more quickly at lower air pressure, which is a factor in [[altitude sickness]]. Dehydration is also a factor in [[hangover]]s. This article can be relevant for a fairly broad range of travellers. | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 22:15, 14 February 2025 (UTC) }} *{{s}} I mentioned before that it is short, but I really don't think much else needs to be added without it duplicating other articles such as [[hot weather]] or [[arid region safety]]. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:30, 14 February 2025 (UTC) : '''Comment:''' This article is most relevant internationally during northern summer (June to August); however, this period tends to be highly requested for featured articles. This article is short, though it covers the necessities of the topic. As long as we have no formal rules for the minimum length of a featured article or a guide-level article, this is not an issue. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 00:30, 21 February 2025 (UTC) :: The only thing I know of that it might be missing is anything about dairy products; see [[Talk:Dehydration#Questions]]. I'm not sure what could be said about those. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 04:15, 21 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''': although also mentioned at [[Hot weather]], I believe this article should contain a discussion regarding heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke in particular has some different instructions from typical dehydration that should receive a mention: "Cool their body with cool (not ice cold, but if ice is all you have then make sure it doesn't make direct contact with the patient's skin) water and fan them. Do not force an unconscious person to drink anything." (from [[Hot weather#Heat stroke]]). <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 00:59, 26 February 2025 (UTC) :: I added a one-liner: ::: All of the conditions mentioned above can also involve problems other than dehydration; see the linked articles for details. :: Is that enough? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:56, 12 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''': Although we don't use references, I think it is helpful if an medical travel topic has links to reliable sources, either in the article or on the talk page. In particular, I would like to know why we are recommending 8g of salt per litre of water. The [https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-FCH-CAH-06.1 WHO] suggest 2.6g of salt in one publication, and changed their formula in 2003, but I expect that there are many other different recommendations. [[:Wikipedia:Management of dehydration]] has advice on pausing briefly during vomiting. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 13:51, 13 April 2025 (UTC) :: The current recipe with 8g is text that I moved here, unaltered, from the diarrhea article. Apparently it needs improvement. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 13:03, 18 April 2025 (UTC) :: {{ping|Doc James}} [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 20:06, 29 April 2025 (UTC) :::Agree the recommended sodium was too high and I have dropped it in half with a reference to the Alberta Health Services. Also added details and a picture of a water filter [[User:Doc James|<span style="color:#0000f1">'''Travel Doc James'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Doc_James|talk]] · [[Special:Contributions/Doc_James|contribs]] · [[Special:EmailUser/Doc_James|email]]) 14:12, 1 May 2025 (UTC) ::::Thanks, the new recipe is more what I was expecting and I like the linked article giving several variations. I now '''support''' featuring this. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:45, 2 May 2025 (UTC) === [[Carpets]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Carpets | blurb=A popular souvenir and a reason for some museum visits. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:Russian_Bouchara.jpg|thumb]] | comment=Mainly but not only for travellers in Asia. | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 17:01, 17 February 2025 (UTC) }} * '''Support''' - looks quite extensive. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:12, 25 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Japanese castles]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Japanese castles | blurb='''[[Japanese castles]]''' are a striking combination of form and function, which served simultaneously as defensive bases, symbols of might and luxurious residences. | status=Guide | time=Any time of year | nominatedBy=[[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 23:18, 17 February 2025 (UTC) | comment= | DotMImage=[[File:Matsumoto_Castle05s5s4592.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Not yet''' To me, the article is lacking in actual castle listings aside from the 12 originals. It may be the way the article is structured, I'm not sure, but exemplary castles in terms of historical events, historical figures, construction or aspects of its construction, architecture, time periods, etc. should be listed with explanations. Articles like this should be pointing people with an interest in castles towards destinations that cater to that interest. Like a lot of our travel topics, it is too Wikipedia not enough travel (or voyage). To me, I think it's a good start-up article but I don't think it's a "guide status" article. Like I said, I'm not sure if it would work better with a different structuring or maybe it just needs listings within the current structure. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:22, 20 February 2025 (UTC) *: I'm not sure I agree. The article provides a ton of detailed information about Japanese castles in general (yes, Wikipedia-style, but it's appropriate here), then listings of every single original castle in Japan with succinct descriptions and why you'd want to visit. Isn't this enough? Opening hours and similar nitty-gritty belongs in the destination articles. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 23:54, 20 February 2025 (UTC) *::None of the issues I stated above suggested I was concerned about listing opening hours. I'd like the castle travel article to feature castles to travel to. The 12 originals are in the [[Japan]] article, so if that's "enough", the article is redundant. The "detailed information" is all fluff and filler without relating it to castles that can be visited. Most people with an interest in Japanese castles would already be aware of the 12 originals, so it's not a very useful article in its current state. It has a workable structure but is underdeveloped. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:11, 21 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Along the Rambla of Montevideo]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Along the Rambla of Montevideo | blurb=This 22-kilometre network of streets passes through many of Montevideo's main sights along its coastline. | status=Guide | time=Southern summer/autumn | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:31, 3 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=Recently came across this article written by {{u|Ypsilon}} and I must say I'm rather pleased with how detailed it is. Since most of it was only written a few months ago, few updates are needed (if any) and I can't see anything critical missing. | DotMImage=[[File:Rambla de Pocitos.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} per my nomination statement. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:31, 3 March 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} an interesting topic with good local color. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 12:56, 10 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', excellent article with minimal to no edits needed before featuring. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:03, 6 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Rail travel in Great Britain]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Rail travel in Great Britain | blurb=200 years ago, on 27 September 1825, the first ever passenger train ran between Stockton-on-Tees and Darlington. Since then, the rail network in Great Britain has become one of the world's densest and most well-utilised systems. | status=Guide | time=September 2025 | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:08, 21 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=As suggested by {{u|Grahamsands}} in the pub, we as Wikivoyage should do something to commemorate the 200th anniversary of rail travel and I think featuring this article is one of the best things we can do to celebrate this. | DotMImage=[[File:Dawlish - DBS 67029 going to Paignton.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' - it's been a while since our last "Rail travel in..." feature, and it would be a superb timing to run it for the 200th anniversary of rail travel overall. It's a very extensive article that's been on my radar for some time too, though I vaguely remember some British editor ([[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|TT]]?) saying there was something important missing from the article. As I can't remember what it was, and it was a couple of years ago, it's possible that the issue has been fixed. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:16, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' as initiator. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 15:25, 22 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' - I considered nominating this about a week ago - drafted a nomination and everything - but decided against it. The passenger rail system is being gradually renationalised, so there will be a lot of upcoming changes to the system and hence this article. The details of the rollout are still a little wooly, but at some point in the next three years (and possibly as early as this May, when SWR becomes the first company in England to be formally renationalised), Network Rail, National Rail and the vast majority of the train companies will be retired and replaced by "Great British Railways". So, I certainly agree the anniversary makes this a good year to feature this article, and the big changes in how the system will be run also merit highlighting. However, I'm concerned it might be more of a work in progress than a feature normally is. Is that a problem? : As for what the missing info might have been, [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]]'s guess is as good as mine, but I'll try to make my thinker work and get back to you if I remember.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 01:37, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', despite it likely needing rewriting before its feature. Possible smaller inaccuracies can always be warned for using an infobox in the most relevant section. If I can be of any help in keeping the article updated despite my lack of experience with the British network, let me know. I'm happy to help if I can. <br/> <span style="font-family:atkinson hyperlegible">― '''[[User:Wauteurz|Wauteurz]]''' <small>([[User talk:Wauteurz|talk]])</small></span> 18:37, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article is good and has been regularly updated. I don't think the renationalisation will require significant changes to the article. There are already nationalised rail companies eg LNER and Scotrail, but there was little difference in the passenger experience when they were nationalised. There will need to be small updates as companies change name etc, but don't expect big changes to fares etc. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:34, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * Thanks for the support. I'll open a thread on the RT in GB discussion, as overhaul of the content would be helpful regardless of the nomination. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 14:32, 28 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', great idea to draw attention to the 200th anniversary of rail travel. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 17:29, 2 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per others. Great feature choice and there seem to be plenty of people interested in making edits to this article to fix any issues before it is featured. === [[Tagalog phrasebook]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Tagalog phrasebook | blurb=Some Tagalog can come in handy if planning a trip to the Philippines, which isn't the most touristy part of Southeast Asia. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:2019-07-08 Tagalog swimming pool rules signs Villa Filomena resort Indang Cavite 0649.jpg|thumb]] | comment=In the beginning of the year, we have traditionally featured one of our many guide phrasebooks. How about this one for some month in early 2026? | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:05, 25 April 2025 (UTC) }} * '''Support, but''' as almost always with phrasebooks, more photos are needed before feature to make it a bit more exciting visually. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:05, 25 April 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' – looks great, except for more photos as you mention. Maybe a bit of verification from a tl speaker would also help. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:03, 25 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Expo 2025]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Osaka Expo | blurb=The Osaka World Expo 2025 is an exhibit of culture and technological advancements of 158 countries, 9 international organizations, and Japanese corporations. Come and enjoy before it ends on October 15. | status=Guide | time=The Expo ends on October 15, so this would need to be featured soon. | DotMImage=[[File:EXPO2025 null2 Appearance.jpg|thumb]] | comment= | nominatedBy=[[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:40, 8 July 2025 (UTC) }} * Because this is a current but limited time event, this is a time-sensitive nomination. These sorts of articles are rarely edited enough before the event ends to be used, but I'm wondering if this one could actually be featured. I can get explanations for the remaining pavilions. I could also probably at least get listings for buildings that hold restaurants. The pavilion that have restaurants already state that in their listings. Could this be featured or is it a waste of time to continue editing? Is it possible to add it as a 4th feature to avoid disrupting the current roster? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:40, 8 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Not yet'''. As much as I feel this expo deserves more exposure and would like to support it, there are some serious gaps in the article, which is currently at ''outline'' status while our standard is for a nominated article to be at least ''guide''. If the article can be expanded, strengthened, and gotten to guide level I would be happy to change my vote to support. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 13:51, 8 July 2025 (UTC) :: I have now completed descriptions for all of the pavilions. It is a "guide" article. Is it good enough to be featured now? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 10:29, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' – perhaps would it make sense to feature this separately as a "what's on" section and not as an FTT? Rail travel in GB was specifically chosen for the September slot because it marks the 200th anniversary of the first railway. Maybe would it make more sense to feature this in August? When does Expo 2025 start – that would influence my opinion with the timing. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:12, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Not yet''' as we have discouraged articles for one-off events. If we would find consensus that events such as this are viable as articles, with at least one prime example, we could amend [[Wikivoyage:What is an article?]] /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:56, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * [[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]], That's what I was thinking. If it could be an additional feature that didn't disrupt the current roster, it would be easier to feature. [[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]], when you say "not yet", you mean the article itself is invalid and should not exist? I didn't create it, but it's odd that this and Olympics articles are allowed to be created if they are articles that are wholly unwanted... What do you think about SHB's suggestion to feature it as its own thing so it doesn't take another places spot? Or is this something that should be taken to the Pub to get more opinions? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 15:14, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Almost''', but has it come too late? This is the best of the 4 Expo articles which we have had over the years ([[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2005]], [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2010]] and [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2015]]). Other events that often have articles are the Olympics and football. Today is close to the middle of the 6 month run of the event, so we would have to think of postponing [[Sound of Music]] or [[Gemstones]], as the September slot is taken. Having it as an extra featured article might be better. :The article needs a cropped banner and the text could be improved in places. Some questions spring to mind: When does Expo close in the evening? Is there much variation in the prices of food in different pavilions? Are there restrictions on bringing in food? Are there particular days that are quieter or busier than others? [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 23:02, 9 July 2025 (UTC) ::I have added information about bringing food and drinks. As far as quiet days, price differences, and closing times, what section do you think these should go in? I added information to "Get in", but I'm not sure these should all go there. Reservations are probably also something that should be addressed. Is a subheading in "Understand" the most logical place? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:47, 10 July 2025 (UTC) eylf0d5anyhd6irw62sq8di879cr9jk 5091101 5090877 2025-07-11T00:39:35Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Schedule */ 5091101 wikitext text/x-wiki {{shortcut|[[Dotm]]<br>[[Otbp]]<br>[[Ftt]]}} Here we determine which articles are featured on the [[Main Page]] as [[Previous Destinations of the month|Destination of the month]] (DotM), [[Previously Off the beaten path|Off the Beaten Path]] (OtBP) and [[Previous Featured travel topics|Featured travel topics]] (FTT). ==Nominate== You can nominate any '''article''' you would like to see featured. Any destination, region, itinerary or event that passes the "[[Project:What is an article?|What is an article?]]" test is eligible for nomination. However, ''before'' nominating, please check that the article follows these basic guidelines: * The nominated article should have an [[Project:article status|article status]] of '''''guide'' or ''star'''''. This includes having at least one good picture, and listings/headers/etc. that match our [[Project:manual of style|manual of style]]. * The nominated article must not have been featured since Wikivoyage became a WMF project in 2013. ** See [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], and [[Previous Featured travel topics]] to check. * If the article has been nominated previously but failed, any objections should be addressed before nominating it again. ** Check the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|slush pile]]. ** If you think a once-slushed destination is now ready to go, list it as new, but with a pointer to the slush pile entry. ** The article should preferably be nominated 3 to 12 months before the intended feature date; ready to feature as is, or with edits that can be done well before featuring. Well-known and/or popular destinations should be nominated as '''Destination of the Month''', while more obscure destinations should be nominated for '''Off the Beaten Path'''. '''Featured Travel Topic''' includes travel topics, phrasebooks, itineraries, and other articles not part of the [[Wikivoyage:Geographic hierarchy|geographic hierarchy]], as well as airports (as they are not usually destinations in their own right). Where applicable, you should propose a good time to visit the destination as a month to be featured. The basic format of a nomination is as follows: <span style=color:green><nowiki>{{FeatureNom</nowiki> <nowiki>| place=Destination</nowiki> <nowiki>| blurb='''[[Destination]]''' is a place of contrasts, and as such it...</nowiki> <nowiki>| status=Guide</nowiki> <nowiki>| time=March-June</nowiki> <nowiki>| nominatedBy=~~~~</nowiki> <nowiki>| comment=Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime.</nowiki> <nowiki>| DotMImage=[[File:Destinationimage.jpg|thumb|300px]]</nowiki> <nowiki>}}</nowiki></span> Add a nomination to the ''end'' of the appropriate section. ==Discuss== You can comment on any nomination based on timeliness and adherence to the criteria above, just add a bullet point (*) and your signed opinion. <nowiki>===[[Destination]]===</nowiki> <nowiki>Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime. TravelNut 25:25, 31 Feb 2525 (UTC)</nowiki> <span style=color:green><nowiki>* Looks nice, but shouldn't the Do section contain more than just quilting contests? ~~~~</nowiki></span> Please note that the following are '''not''' considered valid reasons to oppose a nomination: * '''"I don't like it."''' All objections have to be based on the guidelines above: poor formatting, missing information, etc. Personal opinions, dislikes, etc. do not count. * '''"Wrong time of year."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Timing can be worked out later. * '''"Wrong type of place."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Whether it's DotM or OtBP can be worked out later. ==Select== If an article gets '''three''' comments in favor and no (unresolved) comments against, it's eligible to be placed in an appropriate time-slot in the '''Upcoming''' queue. If the objections are relatively minor and are being worked on, add them to the '''Upcoming''' queue tentatively (add a question mark "?" after the article). Feel free to move the queue around or swap articles if it makes sense. If a nomination clearly does not make the grade and if the objections are not easily fixable, they go into the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|Slush pile]] ([[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile/{{CURRENTYEAR}}|current slush pile]]). Once a nomination has been scheduled, an appropriate banner image and text blurb must be selected. Go to [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners]] to start that discussion. ==Archive== Discussions for previously selected destinations are kept in the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Archive|Archive]]. ==Upcoming== ===Schedule=== The following queue should contain about the next few months' worth of upcoming destinations. Note that new DotMs are rotated in on the '''1st''' of each month, OtBPs on the '''11th''' and travel topics on the '''21st'''. {|border="1" cellspacing=0 cellpadding="3" style="text-align:center" !Month !DotM !OtBP !FTT |- ! align="right" | July 2025 | <s>[[Cuzco]] – pending stronger consensus to support</s> | <s>[[Forillon National Park]] </s> | [[Sound of Music]] – pending minor fixes |- ! align="right" | August 2025 | [[Gothenburg]] – pending minor fixes | [[Paldiski]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus | [[Gemstones]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus |- ! align="right" | September 2025 | [[Canberra/Civic]] | [[Bowling Green (Ohio)]] | [[Rail travel in Great Britain]] |- ! align="right" | October 2025 | [[Parahyangan]] – pending stronger consensus to support | [[Sekigahara]] | [[Driving in China]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support |- ! align="right" | November 2025 | [[San Carlos de Bariloche]] – pending stronger consensus to support | [[Andorra la Vella]] | [[San Diego International Airport]] - pending minor fixes and stronger consensus to support |- ! align="right" | December 2025 | [[Hong Kong/Kowloon]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support | [[Saint-Louis]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support | [[Dehydration]] - pending stronger consensus to support |} Try to avoid two overlapping or back-to-back features from the same country, as well as long streaks of features from the same continent. It is customary to wait 24 months between articles from the same or nearby cities. The schedule is not cast in stone. However, any change made to the schedule should have a compelling reason behind it, and should be effected as far in advance as possible of the article's scheduled term on the Main Page. In particular, unless absolutely necessary, we discourage nominee articles from being slushed or rescheduled after [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners|banners]] have been made for them, which usually happens 2–3 months before being featured. Whenever an article becomes a current feature, it should be removed from the list, the discussion archived, and (when changing out Featured Travel Topics) a new month added to the end of the queue. ===Next changes=== Decisions regarding which images to use as the banners are made at '''[[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners]]'''. The section below provides an opportunity to see what the upcoming featured articles will look like on the [[Main Page]] using the banners that are currently most popular on the above page. {{banner |type=dotm |direction=right |title=Gothenburg |image=GothenburgBanner1.jpg |quote=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months.}} {{banner |type=otbp |direction=left |title=Forillon National Park |image=Forillon National Park OtBP banner.jpg |quote=The final Land's End of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape is an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore. }} {{banner|direction=left|type=ftt|title=Sound of Music|image=SoundOfMusicBanner1.jpg|quote=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. }} ===Updating=== On the date of the scheduled change, the DotM, OtBP, or FTT should be changed as close to midnight UTC as possible. This can only be done by administrators. When the featured page is changed, please follow the following procedures to do so and archive content to the appropriate pages. At each stage, please double-check that you are correctly moving content. Several steps involves copy pasting of the file names of the Main Page banners – former, current, and next – so it can be useful to open those in tabs first. # Update the featured articles on the [[Main Page|main page]] by replacing the current 'banner' template section with those of the appropriate banner for the new DotM/OtBP/FTT found in the ''Next change'' section above. #Update the [[Main_Page/Photo_credits|Photo credits]] page with the banner's '''original image''', title and attribution. # Add the former featured article to the appropriate archive page: [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], or [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. # For the former featured article, add the appropriate parameter to the pagebanner template (directly after the image filename) to label the page as having been featured previously. #* For former DotMs, add: {{!}}dotm=yes #* For former OtBPs, add: {{!}}otbp=yes #* For former FTTs, add: {{!}}ftt=yes # Remove [[Template:Featurenomination]] from newly featured article. # Archive the newly featured article's nomination. Simply cut-and-paste the nomination section of the newly featured article from this page to [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Archive]]. # Update the '''Next change''' section above by adding the banner from [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Banners|the discussion page]]. View the table in the '''Schedule''' section above to determine what next month's change will be, then update the image and blurb in the "Next change" section with that found in the upcoming featured article's nomination. # In the schedule, use <nowiki><s> and </s></nowiki> to strikethrough the newly featured article. Remove the row from the table if the newly featured article is the FTT. #Archive the newly featured article's banner by cutting-and-pasting all banner suggestions and the associated discussion into [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners/Archive]]. ==Nominations for Destination of the Month== ===[[Gothenburg]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Gothenburg | blurb=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=I've been thinking about nominating this article for quite a while now. Some listings look rather bare-bones and a month or two before the article is featured we should check that all the listings are still in business. And my pet peeve :) – the latter half of the article could use some more photos. | DotMImage=[[File:Gothenburg Central Station (Göteborgs Centralstation) 15393945292.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} <s>* '''Almost''' per nomination. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC)</s> ::'''Support''' now after said fixes. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:41, 24 June 2025 (UTC) * '''Almost''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:50, 2 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Almost''' per others. I think this article looks excellent on the whole. I think the "public baths" section needs a rethink, and certainly needs more detail, but otherwise, I think this one can be made feature-ready in a few months. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:23, 7 January 2025 (UTC) : '''Put on hold?''' Provided that [[Cochabamba]] and [[San Carlos de Bariloche]] have sufficient support votes, and a couple of Nordic destinations are scheduled soon; shall we save Gothenburg for 2026? /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 01:08, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::No. As long as it is a requirement to run articles during months when the weather is suitable, we should not on one hand burn the precious summer slots on articles that can be ran other times of the year, and on the other hand burn the precious articles that can be run also during the winter or shoulder seasons during the summer months. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:28, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::Cochabamba and San Carlos de Bariloche are both in the southern hemisphere, so "summer" is actually December-February. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:23, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::::Well, I meant the months from May-September, the summer months in Canada, the US and (the northern half of) Europe from where maybe 3/4 of our current not yet featured articles are from. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 21:39, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::::Right! I knew what you meant, which is why those two mentioned destinations aren't in competition for the "summer" slots since it will be winter down under. By the way, skiing is popular in my family, so we LIKE places that have snowy, icy winter weather! [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 22:30, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::Yes, so some high-latitude destinations can be featured in local winter, but most temperate and arctic cities are more pleasant in summer – especially those that don't have snowy, icy winter weather in winter, but just darkness (with light pollution destroying even that experience) and slush. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:59, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::I think for Gothenberg it's still more appropriate to feature during the summer. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:04, 1 March 2025 (UTC) ::::::::Yes. Its at the coast and much south from Turku, and while we can experience some beautiful winter weather here, it isn't at all guaranteed for somebody staying for a few weeks or less. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:19, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::::Agreed – it also doesn't help that in much of the Southern Hemisphere those months are also dry season. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:32, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::::: Gothenburg has enough indoor destinations to be meaningful as an off-season destination; it is however best at summer. In any case, the article still has zero support votes, and some issues remain. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:20, 5 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::The issues, resulting in the article not having support votes are is basically the fact that the listings need to be checked for up-to-dateness. This is something which could of course have been done last October when nominating the article, but it's much better to do it closer to the time the article is featured. Especially in the case that someone decides to postpone the featuring of the article time of feature. :::::::Recently Recife was featured, and I checked the listings for the THIRD time over the last couple of years. When doing that I was seriously wondering if the time spent on the featured articles and indeed having featured articles could be better used in developing other articles and other aspects of the site as a whole. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:39, 9 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::It may have zero "support" votes, but in this case we should treat "almost" like a support vote because the main thing that needs to happen before featuring is a quick update. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:40, 9 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Canberra/Civic]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Civic | blurb=The central district of Australia's capital [[Canberra]] is compact but punches well above its weight for eating and shopping, becoming particularly active for Canberra's tulip festival, Floriade. | status=Guide | time=September for Floriade (tulip season) | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:47, 1 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=It has been a guide article since 2022 and most listings are no older than 3 years. Thought it would be a good time to feature this for Canberra's annual tulip festival, Floriade, which happens in nearby [[Canberra/North Canberra|Commonwealth Park]] but the CBD area does become active around that time. | DotMImage=[[File:Autumn in Canberra (01).jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:47, 1 January 2025 (UTC) * The article is fine but Civic is just really... boring? I was trying to come up with a catchy blurb but the above is as good as I could get. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 00:23, 2 January 2025 (UTC) *:Honestly, yeah – it gets quite a bit of talk in the planning sphere and circles but other than that, there's nothing particularly exciting about Civic urban planning aspects aside. But thanks for the better blurb – I too kinda struggled to come up with a good blurb. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:56, 2 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - No gaping holes in the article, all listings have coordinates and overall the article looks good. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. I think this article is close to star status, and is definitely good enough to be featured. I commented further at [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations#Canberra/Civic]]. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:55, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Cochabamba]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Cochabamba | blurb=The fourth-largest city in [[Bolivia]], Cochabamba is known as the "Garden City" for its mild climate year-round, cathedral squares, and shops and restaurants. | status=Guide | time=any (however Dec-Feb/Mar [[:w:Cochabamba#Climate|are apparently quite wet]]) | nominatedBy=<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=I've done significant work on this article today to get it up to guide status. I think there are some good restaurants and hotels missing from this list that I might get to, but the article is already in good shape following the addition of coordinates and the removal of closed businesses. Although a check shows we have featured cities in Bolivia before (as recently as last February), South America seems to be underrepresented overall, so this nomination should help with geographic diversity. | DotMImage=[[File:Cochabamba-Plaza.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} per nom – great work on the updates! --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:32, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:Thanks! I've done some more work on the article since. It's great to see the quality of our coverage of Bolivia, with two of the capitals ([[La Paz]] and [[Sucre]]) already having been featured and [[Santa Cruz de la Sierra]] not far from guide status. Many of the smaller towns are also within striking distance of guide status. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 01:59, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *::ikr – it's such an amazing achievement for a country that doesn't get in the spotlight much. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:25, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - solid article with recent updates by SelfieCity. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:51, 25 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Very close''', it's a nice article but the Understand section could be a little bit longer with a couple of paragraphs about the city's history and climate for example. This would also help keeping that map within the Understand section. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:17, 18 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[San Carlos de Bariloche]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=San Carlos de Bariloche | blurb=The Argentine adventure capital offers great opportunities for skiing, sightseeing, water sports, trekking and climbing amidst the amazing mountainous landscapes of Argentine Patagonia. | status=Guide | time=southern spring | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:27, 14 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=Interestingly, we've never had a DotM from Argentina excluding Iguaçu Falls (but 2 from Uruguay and 2 from Chile) and I figured this would be a good one to start with. It might need another checkup closer to featuring and I am in the process of updating many of the listings + adding coordinates, but otherwise I cannot see why we can't feature this. | DotMImage=[[File:View from the Golf course at Llao Llao.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:27, 14 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' pending some small fixes. Some listings need work (descriptions and coordinates) but nothing major that would prevent this one from being featured. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:58, 14 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} looks complete and up-to-date.[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:19, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Parahyangan]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Parahyangan | blurb=The West Javanese region centred around Java's third largest city of Bandung is an excellent place to hike and admire active volcanoes. | status=Guide | time=May–Oct (dry season + good weather for hiking) | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:24, 6 February 2025 (UTC) | comment=It's not often that we feature region articles, but this one has all articles breadcrumbed beneath it as usable or guide, and this will be our first region feature from Java. Since most of our DotMs are filled up for 2025, this might need to wait until 2026, which I have no issue with (I know [[Medan]] was featured only last month as DotM in January, but I don't think that should pose an issue with scheduling as that's on a completely different island). | DotMImage=[[File:Kawah Putih from the bottom, Bandung Regency, 2014-08-21.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} as per nom statement. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:24, 6 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' could use a "Sleep" section with summary info, pointers to which breadcrumbed destinations have best/most listings, and maybe some mentions of particularly interesting places to stay. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:37, 14 February 2025 (UTC) *:Sleep sections are not standard for region articles, though. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:25, 15 February 2025 (UTC) *::Certainly sleep listings are not standard, but a summary or pointers to outstanding/unique lodgings in the region are traveler-centric and *should* be included in any guide-level region article. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:53, 25 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Hong Kong/Kowloon]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Kowloon | blurb=One of the most densely populated cities on Earth, Hong Kong's mainland portion offers a culture less influenced by the British than the neighboring Island, plus accommodation, dining, and nightlife at a comparative bargain. (blurb from its former nomination) | status=Guide | time=Oct-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:41, 21 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Here's another good Northern Hemisphere winter feature. Slushed in 2016, but the reason was that nearby Macau was to be featured then. The article is extensive and tidy, but as usual the listings need to be checked, updated and coordinates added where needed. | DotMImage=[[File:Kowloon Waterfront, Hong Kong, 2013-08-09, DD 03.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' - ie. updates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:41, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work''' - quite a few outdated listings and many without coordinates. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 19:09, 15 May 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work''' as per the comment. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:49, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[Nairobi]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Nairobi | blurb=There's much to experience in the Kenyan capital - from cultural sites and the contrasting high-rises to parks and wildlife. | status=Guide | time=Jan-Feb, Jun-Sep are the drier months | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:07, 18 June 2025 (UTC) | comment=I just promoted this to guide, as it's a really extensive article and could be a nice feature for e.g. early 2026 (to give us one more African feature in addition to Saint-Louis which could be December's OtBP). As usual, some of the information might have gone out of date since it was added, but given that [https://wikimania.wikimedia.org/wiki/2025:Wikimania Wikimania will take place there in August], there's a good chance that the article will get some fresh content already then, especially if Wikivoyage gets some visibility during the event. | DotMImage=[[File:A lone giraffe in Nairobi National Park.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' as usual. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:07, 18 June 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work.''' As mentioned before, the DoTM category has had very few African destinations; most of them have been in OtBP and FTT. Nairobi is one of the continent's most cosmopolitan cities, and deserves to be featured. However, we should not sacrifice quality for diversity. More venues should have coordinates. The [[safari]] destinations within reach from the city could possibly be grouped together, with some general information. General information on price levels and nightlife would be appreciated. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 12:26, 24 June 2025 (UTC) ==Nominations for Off the Beaten Path== ===[[Sekigahara]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sekigahara | blurb= This quaint mountain town and battlefield, where Tokugawa won control of Japan, gives visitors firsthand insight into feudal Japanese warfare. | status=Guide | time=March-May; October | nominatedBy=[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 11:34, 2 May 2024 (UTC) | comment= This town would be perfect for OTBP, given its importance in Japanese history and its well-developed tourist services. It is a small town with very few dining options and lodging (which might be an issue but might not depending on consensus), but it is close to larger Japanese cities like Maibara and Nagoya and would be a perfect day trip from Kyoto et al., especially since it is on a major train line. It is especially beautiful in the spring when the plum and cherry blossoms bloom, but the Battle of Sekigahara was in October of 1600, so it would also work for an October listing. | DotMImage=[[File:Sekigahara Museum and Watertower.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} Can't see anything that would prevent this from being an OtBP. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 12:07, 2 May 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} Article looks good & the site is important. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:00, 2 May 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} The article is good. Having visited once, I can attest that the historical sites are ''really'' not geared for English-speaking visitors, but the article doesn't pretend otherwise and it's fine for a mildly interesting day trip. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 06:01, 3 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Well, if there are few places to eat and drink and sleep, we can't list any more than there actually is :). I think we should run the Sekigahara in October for the re-enactment of the battle as we will probably already have one Japanese feature sometime next spring ([[Public baths in Japan]] as FTT). --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 08:50, 10 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Not Yet''' With zero "Eat" or "Buy" listings, this article has not earned guide status. We should not be saying things like "some decent restaurants and cafes opened both in the battlefield and around the station". Instead, those restaurants and cafes should be given listings. Sekigahara's website shows that the city has numerous restaurants. Similarly "souvenir shops around town" should be given listings. Other encampments should also be given listings. They will not overwhelm the article and they provide deeper understanding of the battle, especially in an article that says you won't understand if you don't speak Japanese. The article also doesn't list much outside of the battlefield. No War Land? No cave? No mention of the Nakasendo post town (Sekigahara-juku)? How about the opportunity to don samurai outfits? I have been to Sekigahara numerous times. It wasn't really on my radar to edit, but maybe I can try adding things here and there to get it up to standard. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:59, 30 June 2024 (UTC) ::Better to run it in the spring, then, if there's content that needs to be added to the article. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:51, 11 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article now has listings for the sites mentioned in [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]]'s comment, including for restaurants. The article is still at Usable status but can be upgraded to Guide before being featured. --[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 08:12, 10 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. The article has been significantly upgraded and looks like it is in great shape now. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:29, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' Major concerns were addressed, but I think do think October is the most appropriate time to feature it to coincide with the battle. Sekigahara is still pretty cold in March. What is the reason for specifying March-May as the feature months? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:39, 8 January 2025 (UTC) *:I don't see why we can't wait until October – what should replace Sekigahara in March then? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:51, 8 January 2025 (UTC) *:I only suggested March-May because I had visited in March 2023 and it was pleasant and warm, and because the cherry blossoms were starting to bloom. It's fine by me if Sekigahara is rescheduled to October; it's also fine if it's left as-is. [[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 09:41, 14 January 2025 (UTC) *::I've removed it from March, left it as a vacant spot for now. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:43, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - sounds like a cool place. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:55, 19 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Paldiski]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Paldiski | blurb=In this Baltic Sea port you can dive into the remains of the former Soviet Union. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:54, 15 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=Our first feature from the Baltic States in another category than DotM. The article is a translation of a ru-WV Star article by me. The article can possibly be expanded a little, but fact remains that you won't find too many places to eat and drink here (or at least was the case back in 2019 when I visited). | DotMImage=[[File:Sadama street Paldiski Estonia.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' however listings need to be checked preferably a month or so before featuring per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:54, 15 November 2024 (UTC) :*It looks like it could use some copy editing before it's featured. I [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Paldiski&diff=4970208&oldid=4970184 did some]. It will be a viable feature article once this is taken care of, though. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:01, 15 November 2024 (UTC) *'''Close''' per Ikan. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:28, 8 December 2024 (UTC) * '''Needs work'''. The first half of this article is excellent. However, some of the sections such as "Sleep" are seriously lacking. The only hotel listing with information is noted for having bad ratings. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:35, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' - Seems too lightweight to be a "guide". 3 restaurants and 2 hotels seems more inline with "usable" status. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:30, 27 February 2025 (UTC) : Well, as noted in the nomination comment I wouldn't expect there to be much more to add. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:36, 13 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Forillon National Park]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Forillon National Park | blurb=The final Land's End of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape is an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore. | status=Guide | time=June-August | nominatedBy=<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=The article is in excellent shape, with the exception of a couple external links, which are a five-minute fix. | DotMImage=[[File:La Chute - Forillon National Park.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' <s>pending minor fixes</s> {{done}}. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) * The article looks good, so a '''support''' for that. However, I remember that [[Gaspé Peninsula]] where the national park is was [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Slush_pile#Gaspé_Peninsula|nominated for OtBP]] by Andre who wrote many of the articles from this region, so maybe we should put this article too in the OtBP category? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:23, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *:I considered that as well. It seemed a fairly prominent national park, but admittedly, I have never been to Canada so I don't know whether it would be considered "off the beaten path" or not. Any thoughts from our Canadian editors? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]]? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 20:15, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support''' It is not a big name. It may be well-known in Quebec, but most Canadians won't have heard of it. SelfieCity: for the love of all that is good, why ''haven't'' you been to Canada? We are one of only two countries that share a land border with the U.S. And it's pretty nice up here. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:33, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *:Indeed, I do need to visit Canada sometime. Good to know about the location, and I suggest we move this to OTBP. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support as OtBP''' per nom and GZ. Looks great, though the listings might need a last-minute check right before we feature the article. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:46, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ::I have updated many listings, but the hikingbtrails section should be checked to ensure it is still up to date. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:01, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:{{ping|SHB2000}} Given how short summers can be in this part of Canada, I'd suggest making this the July OTBP (per above discussion), giving time to go there in August or early September, and Vaals the August feature. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 02:35, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *::That would also work. I was thinking of featuring this for August given how close by Maine is (on a grand scale), but I can't see it being too much of an issue. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:38, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:::I agree but the [[Gaspe]] region gets much colder going into winter. Regardless the schedule works! <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 03:26, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support''' - Detailed, lively and complete. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:34, 27 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Bowling Green (Ohio)]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Bowling Green, Ohio | blurb="Bee Gee" is centered around its State University with a range of student events and lively pubs during semesters, and a Midwestern small town feel around the year. | status=Guide | time=September 2025 when the college semester has begun? Otherwise Spring or Fall probably | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=A few years ago [[User:Mbrickn|Mbrickn]] improved many articles from Ohio, for instance this one. This is a clean and extensive article that could pretty much be featured today. Mbrickn hasn't been active here as of lately but their great work surely deserves a month on the Main Page, especially as we've apparently never featured anything from Ohio. | DotMImage=[[File:Bowling Green Ohio Main Street.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 20:43, 15 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} Listings may need an update closer to featuring, but other than that, there aren't any glaring issues. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:39, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' Sorry for the late return - I would be happy to review and update if this helps. --[[User:Mbrickn|Mbrickn]] ([[User talk:Mbrickn|talk]]) 19:43, 28 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Andorra la Vella]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Andorra la Vella | blurb='''[[Andorra la Vella]]''' is the capital of a quirky co-principality lodged in the mountains between Spain and France that offers great skiing, hiking, and lots of duty-free shopping. | status=Guide | time=A year-round destination. | nominatedBy=[[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 09:39, 2 February 2025 (UTC) | comment=Andorra is a place that isn't that easy to get to as it hasn't an airport, but it isn't impossible, and it will definitely attract attention from readers interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations. And it would be the first feature for Andorra. | DotMImage=[[File:Andorra la Vella - footpath.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as per my comments on [[Talk:Andorra la Vella]] – it may need some last-minute updates closer to featuring, but that's about it I think (also keeping in mind that despite Andorra la Vella giving the illusion of a capital city, it's still only a small town). --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:07, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per above. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 18:14, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - I've noticed [[User:Ground Zero|your]] great work on the article, hope you're having a great time there, and it's also nice to see a feature from a country we've (unsurprisingly) not had any features from previously. Maybe it'd be suitable as a skiing destination next winter? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:42, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:40, 19 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Happy to have updated this page when I visited in 2018 and see this being featured. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 14:30, 24 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Saint-Louis]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Saint-Louis | blurb=Once the colonial capital of French West Africa, Saint-Louis boasts a world heritage listed old town and lively markets and is a gateway to the Langue de Barbarie National Park | status=Guide | time=Nov-May is the dry season, according to [[:w:Saint-Louis, Senegal|Wikipedia]] | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:05, 21 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=Time to think about some article's for the end of the year. Here's another one of our relatively few African guide articles that we haven't featured yet. I sorted out this article, deleted dead businesses and added coordinates a while ago... but looking at the article history that was apparently back in 2020! So even if it has a lot of content it needs an update again, closer to the time it is featured. | DotMImage=[[File:Saintlouis pont Faidherbe.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Pending update''' per comment, otherwise good to go. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:05, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support, with one question'''. First up, thanks for the updates! It's looking real nice now that it's been updated now. But I do wonder if this is better suited as a DotM? It's reasonably well-known especially as a former colonial capital. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:37, 21 March 2025 (UTC) :: Well, it was five years ago I polished up a couple of articles from parts of the world we don't cover that well, so the listings need to be checked again. It seems Saint-Louis is a place that could work as both as an DotM or an OtBP. On one hand it's one of Senegal's top destinations and as such you will meet other visitors also, but it takes a little effort to get there and Senegal is only 107th in the World tourism rankings (13th in Africa), so I put it in OtBP (and nominated it now because we have fewer candidates in this section), but it can be moved to DotM. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:03, 21 March 2025 (UTC) :::Yeah, you definitely are right that it works both as a DotM and an OtBP. I think I have a slight preference towards DotM because this and [[Dakar]] are likely the only Senegalese destinations that we could ever feature as a DotM. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:11, 21 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[El Cuyo]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=El Cuyo | blurb=Virtually unknown to foreign travelers only a few years ago, El Cuyo beckons to visitors looking for a quiet, natural seaside town to bask in the sun undisturbed by revelers while other visitors seek adrenaline-pumping excitement as they take advantage of the kind of steady sea breezes that make it an ideal kitesurfing destination. It's secluded and just enough of a pain to get to to keep crowds away, but close enough to Cancun that you can get there cheaply and easily within a few hours. | status=Guide | time=Nov-May is the dry season, which is also sunny and warm while much of the northern hemisphere freezes | nominatedBy=[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:57, 7 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Not many Mexican destinations have been featured. Here's one that's very new with nothing outdated. All sections have appropriate content and it should be ready to go whenever a suitable time for it comes up. | DotMImage=[[File:El Cuyo, Yucatan, Mexico Dec 2021 - Boats.jpg|thumb|El Cuyo, Yucatan]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. It might need a bit of cleanup and expansion, but otherwise good to go. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:57, 7 April 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} this is nearly perfect. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:23, 7 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - looks good! (The standard Ypsilon complaint: a couple of photos in the latter half would be nice to have). I was recently thinking about nominating one of the many Mexican guide articles you've been working on, but wasn't sure which to choose. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:08, 11 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Ko Kret]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Ko Kret | blurb=Experience the culture of the Mon people, including their pottery and cuisine, on this island just outside Bangkok | status=Guide | time=Nov-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:42, 21 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Time to think about early 2026's OtBP articles, how about taking our readers to a small river island in Thailand? As usual we have to check if everything listed is still in business and if prices and such details are about right. The lack of coordinates in some listings mean that they may have been added over ten years ago. | DotMImage=[[File:Village1 House.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' - ie. updates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:42, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Close''', pending significant updates + coordinates. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:01, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ==Nominations for Featured travel topic== ===[[San Diego International Airport]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=San Diego International Airport | blurb=The main airport to America's finest city is the busiest single runway airport in the world, | status=Guide | time=Year round, not only because there are people who change planes in the San Diego International Airport, but also because San Diego itself is a good place to visit any time of the year. | nominatedBy=[[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 04:28, 20 August 2024 (UTC)Someonehere12345 | comment=Last time an article from an airport in the United States was featured travel topic, it was November 2019 Atlanta. (please note I do not have a banner in mind, but if anyone does then feel free to bring it up in the destination of the month candidates/banners page. | DotMImage=[[File:San Diego International Airport Oct 7, 2019.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator--[[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 04:32, 20 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' - nicely complete article that's up-to-date. Great airport too, very convenient to the downtown area. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 16:43, 30 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Very very close''' - would be nice to have a few more pictures here and there. Otherwise it's apparently up to date and good to go. As YVR is going on the Main Page next spring, this will probably have to sit around here on the nominations page for a while as we don't want to run similar articles (in this case airport articles) too close to each other in the schedule... --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:58, 20 September 2024 (UTC) *:I just added a few more images [[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 22:45, 23 September 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:02, 4 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Very close'''. "Sleep" would benefit from more detail in the listings. I also think that th Eat and Drink sections should be separated. However, this one looks close to feature-able status. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:37, 7 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Gemstones]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Gemstones | blurb=Many travellers buy gems or jewellery during their journeys. | status=Guide | time=any | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 20:38, 3 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=There are both some fine bargains to be had and some incredibly bad "tourist trap" deals. | DotMImage=[[File:Jade FiveRats.jpg|thumb|Chinese jade pendant|300px]] }} *<s>'''Needs work'''</s> – in particular, the [[Gemstones#Museums|&sect; Museums]] section which is lacking many details and coordinates. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:01, 4 October 2024 (UTC) *: The museums now have coordinates (they already had links to the listings, from where I got the coords), and the collections and gems have wikidata links (except the Three Treasures, which don't seem to have an article in Wikipedia in English). They have descriptions; what more details would be needed? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:12, 4 October 2024 (UTC) *::{{s}} upon further improvements. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:36, 1 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close''' The other parts of the article look good, but surely there must be more than four gemstone museums in the world worth visiting? I would also believe that some mines have visitor centers and/or can be visited as such. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:56, 1 November 2024 (UTC) :: I did a web search & added some I found. :: No doubt more could be done. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 18:04, 1 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close'''. There are still some coordinates and listing details missing, which should be present to feature this article. But I think it is possible to get this feature-ready. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:40, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:I've scheduled this for August –&nbsp;I think that's plenty of time to fix any issues with this article. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:39, 21 January 2025 (UTC) : There are unanswered questions on the talk page about [[Gemstones#Stones]] :: How should this section be organised? Alphabetised? Split up into sections for for precious & semi-precious? :: Some stones get their own headings & subsections, starting at [[Gemstones#Rubies_and_sapphires]]. All the others just have listings. Do we have the mix right? Should other precious stones -- diamond & emerald -- have their own subsections? Perhaps a subsection for quartz minerals since at least a half dozen of those can be used as gems? : I think these should be answered before we feature the article. Suggestions? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 05:48, 6 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Sound of Music]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sound of Music | blurb=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. | status=Guide | time=Spring or summer. 2025 is the film's 60th anniversary. Not sure whether there are public events dedicated to the film. | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 23:32, 3 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=We have had surprisingly few features from [[Austria]]. Previous versions of the country's article (and its blurb in [[Central Europe]]) have criticized the film's stereotypic depictions of the country. This article was recently expanded to give background on the real Trapp family, the German film about them, and the inaccuracies and controversies of ''Sound of Music''. Some more information about how to find and visit the venues might be useful. | DotMImage=[[File:Schloss Leopoldskron Salzburg.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Comment'''. I don't think the musical had anything to do with Hollywood, so the blurb needs tweaking. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:32, 7 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Very very close''' - as discussed on the talk page, a couple of more photos would be nice. Moreover, some of the listings in the end of the article have quite short descriptions. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:14, 7 November 2024 (UTC) *'''Support'''. I watched this film many times as a child,and have much enjoyed doing my share of work on this article to complete it and address all the issues listings-wise, and at this moment it has attained a good shape. It must be mentioned that the term "Hollywood version" is very much used throughout the article, synonymous with "American version", to disambiguate from the 1956 "German version". This metonym is not very accurate, as 20th Century Studios are in [[Century City]] and not Hollywood, but I don't see it as an issue that could prevent the article of making FTT. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 10:54, 20 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:41, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} per Ibaman. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:33, 3 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Driving in China]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Driving in China | blurb=China isn't one of the countries that foreigners commonly explore by driving themselves. If you'd still like to, the first step would be getting a local driving license. | status=Guide | time=Any, though maybe not in mid-winter | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:50, 21 January 2025 (UTC) | comment="Driving in..." articles have been a rare sight on the Main Page in the last couple of years as you can see in [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. Here's an interesting one. The article looks really extensive, but the content and headings perhaps need to be rearranged. On the other hand I don't remember if we have any standard order for the information in driving articles. | DotMImage=[[File:PeopleSquareTraffic.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' per comment. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:50, 21 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:15, 21 January 2025 (UTC) *Definitely needs more copy editing. I edited the lede and part of "Understand," and there was a lot of redundancy and some lack of articles and such. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:05, 31 March 2025 (UTC) === [[Dehydration]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Dehydration | blurb=A condition that may affect travellers in many places and for many reasons. Never pleasant, sometimes fatal. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:Coach Ken, Hydrate or die 120521-F-WX664-210.jpg|thumb]] | comment=The most common causes are severe [[diarrhea]], sweating a lot in [[hot weather]] or during strenuous activity such as a [[marathon race]], and water evaporating more quickly at lower air pressure, which is a factor in [[altitude sickness]]. Dehydration is also a factor in [[hangover]]s. This article can be relevant for a fairly broad range of travellers. | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 22:15, 14 February 2025 (UTC) }} *{{s}} I mentioned before that it is short, but I really don't think much else needs to be added without it duplicating other articles such as [[hot weather]] or [[arid region safety]]. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:30, 14 February 2025 (UTC) : '''Comment:''' This article is most relevant internationally during northern summer (June to August); however, this period tends to be highly requested for featured articles. This article is short, though it covers the necessities of the topic. As long as we have no formal rules for the minimum length of a featured article or a guide-level article, this is not an issue. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 00:30, 21 February 2025 (UTC) :: The only thing I know of that it might be missing is anything about dairy products; see [[Talk:Dehydration#Questions]]. I'm not sure what could be said about those. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 04:15, 21 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''': although also mentioned at [[Hot weather]], I believe this article should contain a discussion regarding heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke in particular has some different instructions from typical dehydration that should receive a mention: "Cool their body with cool (not ice cold, but if ice is all you have then make sure it doesn't make direct contact with the patient's skin) water and fan them. Do not force an unconscious person to drink anything." (from [[Hot weather#Heat stroke]]). <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 00:59, 26 February 2025 (UTC) :: I added a one-liner: ::: All of the conditions mentioned above can also involve problems other than dehydration; see the linked articles for details. :: Is that enough? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:56, 12 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''': Although we don't use references, I think it is helpful if an medical travel topic has links to reliable sources, either in the article or on the talk page. In particular, I would like to know why we are recommending 8g of salt per litre of water. The [https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-FCH-CAH-06.1 WHO] suggest 2.6g of salt in one publication, and changed their formula in 2003, but I expect that there are many other different recommendations. [[:Wikipedia:Management of dehydration]] has advice on pausing briefly during vomiting. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 13:51, 13 April 2025 (UTC) :: The current recipe with 8g is text that I moved here, unaltered, from the diarrhea article. Apparently it needs improvement. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 13:03, 18 April 2025 (UTC) :: {{ping|Doc James}} [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 20:06, 29 April 2025 (UTC) :::Agree the recommended sodium was too high and I have dropped it in half with a reference to the Alberta Health Services. Also added details and a picture of a water filter [[User:Doc James|<span style="color:#0000f1">'''Travel Doc James'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Doc_James|talk]] · [[Special:Contributions/Doc_James|contribs]] · [[Special:EmailUser/Doc_James|email]]) 14:12, 1 May 2025 (UTC) ::::Thanks, the new recipe is more what I was expecting and I like the linked article giving several variations. I now '''support''' featuring this. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:45, 2 May 2025 (UTC) === [[Carpets]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Carpets | blurb=A popular souvenir and a reason for some museum visits. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:Russian_Bouchara.jpg|thumb]] | comment=Mainly but not only for travellers in Asia. | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 17:01, 17 February 2025 (UTC) }} * '''Support''' - looks quite extensive. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:12, 25 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Japanese castles]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Japanese castles | blurb='''[[Japanese castles]]''' are a striking combination of form and function, which served simultaneously as defensive bases, symbols of might and luxurious residences. | status=Guide | time=Any time of year | nominatedBy=[[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 23:18, 17 February 2025 (UTC) | comment= | DotMImage=[[File:Matsumoto_Castle05s5s4592.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Not yet''' To me, the article is lacking in actual castle listings aside from the 12 originals. It may be the way the article is structured, I'm not sure, but exemplary castles in terms of historical events, historical figures, construction or aspects of its construction, architecture, time periods, etc. should be listed with explanations. Articles like this should be pointing people with an interest in castles towards destinations that cater to that interest. Like a lot of our travel topics, it is too Wikipedia not enough travel (or voyage). To me, I think it's a good start-up article but I don't think it's a "guide status" article. Like I said, I'm not sure if it would work better with a different structuring or maybe it just needs listings within the current structure. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:22, 20 February 2025 (UTC) *: I'm not sure I agree. The article provides a ton of detailed information about Japanese castles in general (yes, Wikipedia-style, but it's appropriate here), then listings of every single original castle in Japan with succinct descriptions and why you'd want to visit. Isn't this enough? Opening hours and similar nitty-gritty belongs in the destination articles. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 23:54, 20 February 2025 (UTC) *::None of the issues I stated above suggested I was concerned about listing opening hours. I'd like the castle travel article to feature castles to travel to. The 12 originals are in the [[Japan]] article, so if that's "enough", the article is redundant. The "detailed information" is all fluff and filler without relating it to castles that can be visited. Most people with an interest in Japanese castles would already be aware of the 12 originals, so it's not a very useful article in its current state. It has a workable structure but is underdeveloped. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:11, 21 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Along the Rambla of Montevideo]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Along the Rambla of Montevideo | blurb=This 22-kilometre network of streets passes through many of Montevideo's main sights along its coastline. | status=Guide | time=Southern summer/autumn | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:31, 3 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=Recently came across this article written by {{u|Ypsilon}} and I must say I'm rather pleased with how detailed it is. Since most of it was only written a few months ago, few updates are needed (if any) and I can't see anything critical missing. | DotMImage=[[File:Rambla de Pocitos.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} per my nomination statement. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:31, 3 March 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} an interesting topic with good local color. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 12:56, 10 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', excellent article with minimal to no edits needed before featuring. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:03, 6 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Rail travel in Great Britain]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Rail travel in Great Britain | blurb=200 years ago, on 27 September 1825, the first ever passenger train ran between Stockton-on-Tees and Darlington. Since then, the rail network in Great Britain has become one of the world's densest and most well-utilised systems. | status=Guide | time=September 2025 | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:08, 21 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=As suggested by {{u|Grahamsands}} in the pub, we as Wikivoyage should do something to commemorate the 200th anniversary of rail travel and I think featuring this article is one of the best things we can do to celebrate this. | DotMImage=[[File:Dawlish - DBS 67029 going to Paignton.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' - it's been a while since our last "Rail travel in..." feature, and it would be a superb timing to run it for the 200th anniversary of rail travel overall. It's a very extensive article that's been on my radar for some time too, though I vaguely remember some British editor ([[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|TT]]?) saying there was something important missing from the article. As I can't remember what it was, and it was a couple of years ago, it's possible that the issue has been fixed. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:16, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' as initiator. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 15:25, 22 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' - I considered nominating this about a week ago - drafted a nomination and everything - but decided against it. The passenger rail system is being gradually renationalised, so there will be a lot of upcoming changes to the system and hence this article. The details of the rollout are still a little wooly, but at some point in the next three years (and possibly as early as this May, when SWR becomes the first company in England to be formally renationalised), Network Rail, National Rail and the vast majority of the train companies will be retired and replaced by "Great British Railways". So, I certainly agree the anniversary makes this a good year to feature this article, and the big changes in how the system will be run also merit highlighting. However, I'm concerned it might be more of a work in progress than a feature normally is. Is that a problem? : As for what the missing info might have been, [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]]'s guess is as good as mine, but I'll try to make my thinker work and get back to you if I remember.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 01:37, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', despite it likely needing rewriting before its feature. Possible smaller inaccuracies can always be warned for using an infobox in the most relevant section. If I can be of any help in keeping the article updated despite my lack of experience with the British network, let me know. I'm happy to help if I can. <br/> <span style="font-family:atkinson hyperlegible">― '''[[User:Wauteurz|Wauteurz]]''' <small>([[User talk:Wauteurz|talk]])</small></span> 18:37, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article is good and has been regularly updated. I don't think the renationalisation will require significant changes to the article. There are already nationalised rail companies eg LNER and Scotrail, but there was little difference in the passenger experience when they were nationalised. There will need to be small updates as companies change name etc, but don't expect big changes to fares etc. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:34, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * Thanks for the support. I'll open a thread on the RT in GB discussion, as overhaul of the content would be helpful regardless of the nomination. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 14:32, 28 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', great idea to draw attention to the 200th anniversary of rail travel. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 17:29, 2 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per others. Great feature choice and there seem to be plenty of people interested in making edits to this article to fix any issues before it is featured. === [[Tagalog phrasebook]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Tagalog phrasebook | blurb=Some Tagalog can come in handy if planning a trip to the Philippines, which isn't the most touristy part of Southeast Asia. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:2019-07-08 Tagalog swimming pool rules signs Villa Filomena resort Indang Cavite 0649.jpg|thumb]] | comment=In the beginning of the year, we have traditionally featured one of our many guide phrasebooks. How about this one for some month in early 2026? | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:05, 25 April 2025 (UTC) }} * '''Support, but''' as almost always with phrasebooks, more photos are needed before feature to make it a bit more exciting visually. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:05, 25 April 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' – looks great, except for more photos as you mention. Maybe a bit of verification from a tl speaker would also help. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:03, 25 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Expo 2025]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Osaka Expo | blurb=The Osaka World Expo 2025 is an exhibit of culture and technological advancements of 158 countries, 9 international organizations, and Japanese corporations. Come and enjoy before it ends on October 15. | status=Guide | time=The Expo ends on October 15, so this would need to be featured soon. | DotMImage=[[File:EXPO2025 null2 Appearance.jpg|thumb]] | comment= | nominatedBy=[[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:40, 8 July 2025 (UTC) }} * Because this is a current but limited time event, this is a time-sensitive nomination. These sorts of articles are rarely edited enough before the event ends to be used, but I'm wondering if this one could actually be featured. I can get explanations for the remaining pavilions. I could also probably at least get listings for buildings that hold restaurants. The pavilion that have restaurants already state that in their listings. Could this be featured or is it a waste of time to continue editing? Is it possible to add it as a 4th feature to avoid disrupting the current roster? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:40, 8 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Not yet'''. As much as I feel this expo deserves more exposure and would like to support it, there are some serious gaps in the article, which is currently at ''outline'' status while our standard is for a nominated article to be at least ''guide''. If the article can be expanded, strengthened, and gotten to guide level I would be happy to change my vote to support. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 13:51, 8 July 2025 (UTC) :: I have now completed descriptions for all of the pavilions. It is a "guide" article. Is it good enough to be featured now? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 10:29, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' – perhaps would it make sense to feature this separately as a "what's on" section and not as an FTT? Rail travel in GB was specifically chosen for the September slot because it marks the 200th anniversary of the first railway. Maybe would it make more sense to feature this in August? When does Expo 2025 start – that would influence my opinion with the timing. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:12, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Not yet''' as we have discouraged articles for one-off events. If we would find consensus that events such as this are viable as articles, with at least one prime example, we could amend [[Wikivoyage:What is an article?]] /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:56, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * [[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]], That's what I was thinking. If it could be an additional feature that didn't disrupt the current roster, it would be easier to feature. [[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]], when you say "not yet", you mean the article itself is invalid and should not exist? I didn't create it, but it's odd that this and Olympics articles are allowed to be created if they are articles that are wholly unwanted... What do you think about SHB's suggestion to feature it as its own thing so it doesn't take another places spot? Or is this something that should be taken to the Pub to get more opinions? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 15:14, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Almost''', but has it come too late? This is the best of the 4 Expo articles which we have had over the years ([[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2005]], [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2010]] and [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2015]]). Other events that often have articles are the Olympics and football. Today is close to the middle of the 6 month run of the event, so we would have to think of postponing [[Sound of Music]] or [[Gemstones]], as the September slot is taken. Having it as an extra featured article might be better. :The article needs a cropped banner and the text could be improved in places. Some questions spring to mind: When does Expo close in the evening? Is there much variation in the prices of food in different pavilions? Are there restrictions on bringing in food? Are there particular days that are quieter or busier than others? [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 23:02, 9 July 2025 (UTC) ::I have added information about bringing food and drinks. As far as quiet days, price differences, and closing times, what section do you think these should go in? I added information to "Get in", but I'm not sure these should all go there. Reservations are probably also something that should be addressed. Is a subheading in "Understand" the most logical place? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:47, 10 July 2025 (UTC) 1pw6zvuec87zlpdlx8wk8p7fqc5hnyy 5091102 5091101 2025-07-11T00:41:04Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Next changes */ 5091102 wikitext text/x-wiki {{shortcut|[[Dotm]]<br>[[Otbp]]<br>[[Ftt]]}} Here we determine which articles are featured on the [[Main Page]] as [[Previous Destinations of the month|Destination of the month]] (DotM), [[Previously Off the beaten path|Off the Beaten Path]] (OtBP) and [[Previous Featured travel topics|Featured travel topics]] (FTT). ==Nominate== You can nominate any '''article''' you would like to see featured. Any destination, region, itinerary or event that passes the "[[Project:What is an article?|What is an article?]]" test is eligible for nomination. However, ''before'' nominating, please check that the article follows these basic guidelines: * The nominated article should have an [[Project:article status|article status]] of '''''guide'' or ''star'''''. This includes having at least one good picture, and listings/headers/etc. that match our [[Project:manual of style|manual of style]]. * The nominated article must not have been featured since Wikivoyage became a WMF project in 2013. ** See [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], and [[Previous Featured travel topics]] to check. * If the article has been nominated previously but failed, any objections should be addressed before nominating it again. ** Check the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|slush pile]]. ** If you think a once-slushed destination is now ready to go, list it as new, but with a pointer to the slush pile entry. ** The article should preferably be nominated 3 to 12 months before the intended feature date; ready to feature as is, or with edits that can be done well before featuring. Well-known and/or popular destinations should be nominated as '''Destination of the Month''', while more obscure destinations should be nominated for '''Off the Beaten Path'''. '''Featured Travel Topic''' includes travel topics, phrasebooks, itineraries, and other articles not part of the [[Wikivoyage:Geographic hierarchy|geographic hierarchy]], as well as airports (as they are not usually destinations in their own right). Where applicable, you should propose a good time to visit the destination as a month to be featured. The basic format of a nomination is as follows: <span style=color:green><nowiki>{{FeatureNom</nowiki> <nowiki>| place=Destination</nowiki> <nowiki>| blurb='''[[Destination]]''' is a place of contrasts, and as such it...</nowiki> <nowiki>| status=Guide</nowiki> <nowiki>| time=March-June</nowiki> <nowiki>| nominatedBy=~~~~</nowiki> <nowiki>| comment=Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime.</nowiki> <nowiki>| DotMImage=[[File:Destinationimage.jpg|thumb|300px]]</nowiki> <nowiki>}}</nowiki></span> Add a nomination to the ''end'' of the appropriate section. ==Discuss== You can comment on any nomination based on timeliness and adherence to the criteria above, just add a bullet point (*) and your signed opinion. <nowiki>===[[Destination]]===</nowiki> <nowiki>Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime. TravelNut 25:25, 31 Feb 2525 (UTC)</nowiki> <span style=color:green><nowiki>* Looks nice, but shouldn't the Do section contain more than just quilting contests? ~~~~</nowiki></span> Please note that the following are '''not''' considered valid reasons to oppose a nomination: * '''"I don't like it."''' All objections have to be based on the guidelines above: poor formatting, missing information, etc. Personal opinions, dislikes, etc. do not count. * '''"Wrong time of year."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Timing can be worked out later. * '''"Wrong type of place."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Whether it's DotM or OtBP can be worked out later. ==Select== If an article gets '''three''' comments in favor and no (unresolved) comments against, it's eligible to be placed in an appropriate time-slot in the '''Upcoming''' queue. If the objections are relatively minor and are being worked on, add them to the '''Upcoming''' queue tentatively (add a question mark "?" after the article). Feel free to move the queue around or swap articles if it makes sense. If a nomination clearly does not make the grade and if the objections are not easily fixable, they go into the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|Slush pile]] ([[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile/{{CURRENTYEAR}}|current slush pile]]). Once a nomination has been scheduled, an appropriate banner image and text blurb must be selected. Go to [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners]] to start that discussion. ==Archive== Discussions for previously selected destinations are kept in the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Archive|Archive]]. ==Upcoming== ===Schedule=== The following queue should contain about the next few months' worth of upcoming destinations. Note that new DotMs are rotated in on the '''1st''' of each month, OtBPs on the '''11th''' and travel topics on the '''21st'''. {|border="1" cellspacing=0 cellpadding="3" style="text-align:center" !Month !DotM !OtBP !FTT |- ! align="right" | July 2025 | <s>[[Cuzco]] – pending stronger consensus to support</s> | <s>[[Forillon National Park]] </s> | [[Sound of Music]] – pending minor fixes |- ! align="right" | August 2025 | [[Gothenburg]] – pending minor fixes | [[Paldiski]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus | [[Gemstones]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus |- ! align="right" | September 2025 | [[Canberra/Civic]] | [[Bowling Green (Ohio)]] | [[Rail travel in Great Britain]] |- ! align="right" | October 2025 | [[Parahyangan]] – pending stronger consensus to support | [[Sekigahara]] | [[Driving in China]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support |- ! align="right" | November 2025 | [[San Carlos de Bariloche]] – pending stronger consensus to support | [[Andorra la Vella]] | [[San Diego International Airport]] - pending minor fixes and stronger consensus to support |- ! align="right" | December 2025 | [[Hong Kong/Kowloon]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support | [[Saint-Louis]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support | [[Dehydration]] - pending stronger consensus to support |} Try to avoid two overlapping or back-to-back features from the same country, as well as long streaks of features from the same continent. It is customary to wait 24 months between articles from the same or nearby cities. The schedule is not cast in stone. However, any change made to the schedule should have a compelling reason behind it, and should be effected as far in advance as possible of the article's scheduled term on the Main Page. In particular, unless absolutely necessary, we discourage nominee articles from being slushed or rescheduled after [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners|banners]] have been made for them, which usually happens 2–3 months before being featured. Whenever an article becomes a current feature, it should be removed from the list, the discussion archived, and (when changing out Featured Travel Topics) a new month added to the end of the queue. ===Next changes=== Decisions regarding which images to use as the banners are made at '''[[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners]]'''. The section below provides an opportunity to see what the upcoming featured articles will look like on the [[Main Page]] using the banners that are currently most popular on the above page. {{banner |type=dotm |direction=right |title=Gothenburg |image=GothenburgBanner1.jpg |quote=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months.}} {{banner|direction=right|title=Paldiski|type=otbp|image=PaldiskiBanner1.jpg|quote=In this Baltic Sea port you can dive into the remains of the former Soviet Union.}} <!--{banner |type=otbp |direction=left |title=Forillon National Park |image=Forillon National Park OtBP banner.jpg |quote=The final Land's End of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape is an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore. }}--> {{banner|direction=left|type=ftt|title=Sound of Music|image=SoundOfMusicBanner1.jpg|quote=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. }} ===Updating=== On the date of the scheduled change, the DotM, OtBP, or FTT should be changed as close to midnight UTC as possible. This can only be done by administrators. When the featured page is changed, please follow the following procedures to do so and archive content to the appropriate pages. At each stage, please double-check that you are correctly moving content. Several steps involves copy pasting of the file names of the Main Page banners – former, current, and next – so it can be useful to open those in tabs first. # Update the featured articles on the [[Main Page|main page]] by replacing the current 'banner' template section with those of the appropriate banner for the new DotM/OtBP/FTT found in the ''Next change'' section above. #Update the [[Main_Page/Photo_credits|Photo credits]] page with the banner's '''original image''', title and attribution. # Add the former featured article to the appropriate archive page: [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], or [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. # For the former featured article, add the appropriate parameter to the pagebanner template (directly after the image filename) to label the page as having been featured previously. #* For former DotMs, add: {{!}}dotm=yes #* For former OtBPs, add: {{!}}otbp=yes #* For former FTTs, add: {{!}}ftt=yes # Remove [[Template:Featurenomination]] from newly featured article. # Archive the newly featured article's nomination. Simply cut-and-paste the nomination section of the newly featured article from this page to [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Archive]]. # Update the '''Next change''' section above by adding the banner from [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Banners|the discussion page]]. View the table in the '''Schedule''' section above to determine what next month's change will be, then update the image and blurb in the "Next change" section with that found in the upcoming featured article's nomination. # In the schedule, use <nowiki><s> and </s></nowiki> to strikethrough the newly featured article. Remove the row from the table if the newly featured article is the FTT. #Archive the newly featured article's banner by cutting-and-pasting all banner suggestions and the associated discussion into [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners/Archive]]. ==Nominations for Destination of the Month== ===[[Gothenburg]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Gothenburg | blurb=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=I've been thinking about nominating this article for quite a while now. Some listings look rather bare-bones and a month or two before the article is featured we should check that all the listings are still in business. And my pet peeve :) – the latter half of the article could use some more photos. | DotMImage=[[File:Gothenburg Central Station (Göteborgs Centralstation) 15393945292.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} <s>* '''Almost''' per nomination. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC)</s> ::'''Support''' now after said fixes. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:41, 24 June 2025 (UTC) * '''Almost''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:50, 2 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Almost''' per others. I think this article looks excellent on the whole. I think the "public baths" section needs a rethink, and certainly needs more detail, but otherwise, I think this one can be made feature-ready in a few months. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:23, 7 January 2025 (UTC) : '''Put on hold?''' Provided that [[Cochabamba]] and [[San Carlos de Bariloche]] have sufficient support votes, and a couple of Nordic destinations are scheduled soon; shall we save Gothenburg for 2026? /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 01:08, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::No. As long as it is a requirement to run articles during months when the weather is suitable, we should not on one hand burn the precious summer slots on articles that can be ran other times of the year, and on the other hand burn the precious articles that can be run also during the winter or shoulder seasons during the summer months. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:28, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::Cochabamba and San Carlos de Bariloche are both in the southern hemisphere, so "summer" is actually December-February. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:23, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::::Well, I meant the months from May-September, the summer months in Canada, the US and (the northern half of) Europe from where maybe 3/4 of our current not yet featured articles are from. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 21:39, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::::Right! I knew what you meant, which is why those two mentioned destinations aren't in competition for the "summer" slots since it will be winter down under. By the way, skiing is popular in my family, so we LIKE places that have snowy, icy winter weather! [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 22:30, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::Yes, so some high-latitude destinations can be featured in local winter, but most temperate and arctic cities are more pleasant in summer – especially those that don't have snowy, icy winter weather in winter, but just darkness (with light pollution destroying even that experience) and slush. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:59, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::I think for Gothenberg it's still more appropriate to feature during the summer. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:04, 1 March 2025 (UTC) ::::::::Yes. Its at the coast and much south from Turku, and while we can experience some beautiful winter weather here, it isn't at all guaranteed for somebody staying for a few weeks or less. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:19, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::::Agreed – it also doesn't help that in much of the Southern Hemisphere those months are also dry season. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:32, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::::: Gothenburg has enough indoor destinations to be meaningful as an off-season destination; it is however best at summer. In any case, the article still has zero support votes, and some issues remain. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:20, 5 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::The issues, resulting in the article not having support votes are is basically the fact that the listings need to be checked for up-to-dateness. This is something which could of course have been done last October when nominating the article, but it's much better to do it closer to the time the article is featured. Especially in the case that someone decides to postpone the featuring of the article time of feature. :::::::Recently Recife was featured, and I checked the listings for the THIRD time over the last couple of years. When doing that I was seriously wondering if the time spent on the featured articles and indeed having featured articles could be better used in developing other articles and other aspects of the site as a whole. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:39, 9 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::It may have zero "support" votes, but in this case we should treat "almost" like a support vote because the main thing that needs to happen before featuring is a quick update. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:40, 9 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Canberra/Civic]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Civic | blurb=The central district of Australia's capital [[Canberra]] is compact but punches well above its weight for eating and shopping, becoming particularly active for Canberra's tulip festival, Floriade. | status=Guide | time=September for Floriade (tulip season) | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:47, 1 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=It has been a guide article since 2022 and most listings are no older than 3 years. Thought it would be a good time to feature this for Canberra's annual tulip festival, Floriade, which happens in nearby [[Canberra/North Canberra|Commonwealth Park]] but the CBD area does become active around that time. | DotMImage=[[File:Autumn in Canberra (01).jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:47, 1 January 2025 (UTC) * The article is fine but Civic is just really... boring? I was trying to come up with a catchy blurb but the above is as good as I could get. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 00:23, 2 January 2025 (UTC) *:Honestly, yeah – it gets quite a bit of talk in the planning sphere and circles but other than that, there's nothing particularly exciting about Civic urban planning aspects aside. But thanks for the better blurb – I too kinda struggled to come up with a good blurb. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:56, 2 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - No gaping holes in the article, all listings have coordinates and overall the article looks good. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. I think this article is close to star status, and is definitely good enough to be featured. I commented further at [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations#Canberra/Civic]]. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:55, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Cochabamba]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Cochabamba | blurb=The fourth-largest city in [[Bolivia]], Cochabamba is known as the "Garden City" for its mild climate year-round, cathedral squares, and shops and restaurants. | status=Guide | time=any (however Dec-Feb/Mar [[:w:Cochabamba#Climate|are apparently quite wet]]) | nominatedBy=<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=I've done significant work on this article today to get it up to guide status. I think there are some good restaurants and hotels missing from this list that I might get to, but the article is already in good shape following the addition of coordinates and the removal of closed businesses. Although a check shows we have featured cities in Bolivia before (as recently as last February), South America seems to be underrepresented overall, so this nomination should help with geographic diversity. | DotMImage=[[File:Cochabamba-Plaza.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} per nom – great work on the updates! --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:32, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:Thanks! I've done some more work on the article since. It's great to see the quality of our coverage of Bolivia, with two of the capitals ([[La Paz]] and [[Sucre]]) already having been featured and [[Santa Cruz de la Sierra]] not far from guide status. Many of the smaller towns are also within striking distance of guide status. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 01:59, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *::ikr – it's such an amazing achievement for a country that doesn't get in the spotlight much. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:25, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - solid article with recent updates by SelfieCity. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:51, 25 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Very close''', it's a nice article but the Understand section could be a little bit longer with a couple of paragraphs about the city's history and climate for example. This would also help keeping that map within the Understand section. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:17, 18 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[San Carlos de Bariloche]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=San Carlos de Bariloche | blurb=The Argentine adventure capital offers great opportunities for skiing, sightseeing, water sports, trekking and climbing amidst the amazing mountainous landscapes of Argentine Patagonia. | status=Guide | time=southern spring | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:27, 14 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=Interestingly, we've never had a DotM from Argentina excluding Iguaçu Falls (but 2 from Uruguay and 2 from Chile) and I figured this would be a good one to start with. It might need another checkup closer to featuring and I am in the process of updating many of the listings + adding coordinates, but otherwise I cannot see why we can't feature this. | DotMImage=[[File:View from the Golf course at Llao Llao.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:27, 14 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' pending some small fixes. Some listings need work (descriptions and coordinates) but nothing major that would prevent this one from being featured. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:58, 14 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} looks complete and up-to-date.[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:19, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Parahyangan]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Parahyangan | blurb=The West Javanese region centred around Java's third largest city of Bandung is an excellent place to hike and admire active volcanoes. | status=Guide | time=May–Oct (dry season + good weather for hiking) | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:24, 6 February 2025 (UTC) | comment=It's not often that we feature region articles, but this one has all articles breadcrumbed beneath it as usable or guide, and this will be our first region feature from Java. Since most of our DotMs are filled up for 2025, this might need to wait until 2026, which I have no issue with (I know [[Medan]] was featured only last month as DotM in January, but I don't think that should pose an issue with scheduling as that's on a completely different island). | DotMImage=[[File:Kawah Putih from the bottom, Bandung Regency, 2014-08-21.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} as per nom statement. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:24, 6 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' could use a "Sleep" section with summary info, pointers to which breadcrumbed destinations have best/most listings, and maybe some mentions of particularly interesting places to stay. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:37, 14 February 2025 (UTC) *:Sleep sections are not standard for region articles, though. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:25, 15 February 2025 (UTC) *::Certainly sleep listings are not standard, but a summary or pointers to outstanding/unique lodgings in the region are traveler-centric and *should* be included in any guide-level region article. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:53, 25 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Hong Kong/Kowloon]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Kowloon | blurb=One of the most densely populated cities on Earth, Hong Kong's mainland portion offers a culture less influenced by the British than the neighboring Island, plus accommodation, dining, and nightlife at a comparative bargain. (blurb from its former nomination) | status=Guide | time=Oct-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:41, 21 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Here's another good Northern Hemisphere winter feature. Slushed in 2016, but the reason was that nearby Macau was to be featured then. The article is extensive and tidy, but as usual the listings need to be checked, updated and coordinates added where needed. | DotMImage=[[File:Kowloon Waterfront, Hong Kong, 2013-08-09, DD 03.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' - ie. updates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:41, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work''' - quite a few outdated listings and many without coordinates. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 19:09, 15 May 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work''' as per the comment. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:49, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[Nairobi]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Nairobi | blurb=There's much to experience in the Kenyan capital - from cultural sites and the contrasting high-rises to parks and wildlife. | status=Guide | time=Jan-Feb, Jun-Sep are the drier months | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:07, 18 June 2025 (UTC) | comment=I just promoted this to guide, as it's a really extensive article and could be a nice feature for e.g. early 2026 (to give us one more African feature in addition to Saint-Louis which could be December's OtBP). As usual, some of the information might have gone out of date since it was added, but given that [https://wikimania.wikimedia.org/wiki/2025:Wikimania Wikimania will take place there in August], there's a good chance that the article will get some fresh content already then, especially if Wikivoyage gets some visibility during the event. | DotMImage=[[File:A lone giraffe in Nairobi National Park.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' as usual. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:07, 18 June 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work.''' As mentioned before, the DoTM category has had very few African destinations; most of them have been in OtBP and FTT. Nairobi is one of the continent's most cosmopolitan cities, and deserves to be featured. However, we should not sacrifice quality for diversity. More venues should have coordinates. The [[safari]] destinations within reach from the city could possibly be grouped together, with some general information. General information on price levels and nightlife would be appreciated. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 12:26, 24 June 2025 (UTC) ==Nominations for Off the Beaten Path== ===[[Sekigahara]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sekigahara | blurb= This quaint mountain town and battlefield, where Tokugawa won control of Japan, gives visitors firsthand insight into feudal Japanese warfare. | status=Guide | time=March-May; October | nominatedBy=[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 11:34, 2 May 2024 (UTC) | comment= This town would be perfect for OTBP, given its importance in Japanese history and its well-developed tourist services. It is a small town with very few dining options and lodging (which might be an issue but might not depending on consensus), but it is close to larger Japanese cities like Maibara and Nagoya and would be a perfect day trip from Kyoto et al., especially since it is on a major train line. It is especially beautiful in the spring when the plum and cherry blossoms bloom, but the Battle of Sekigahara was in October of 1600, so it would also work for an October listing. | DotMImage=[[File:Sekigahara Museum and Watertower.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} Can't see anything that would prevent this from being an OtBP. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 12:07, 2 May 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} Article looks good & the site is important. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:00, 2 May 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} The article is good. Having visited once, I can attest that the historical sites are ''really'' not geared for English-speaking visitors, but the article doesn't pretend otherwise and it's fine for a mildly interesting day trip. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 06:01, 3 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Well, if there are few places to eat and drink and sleep, we can't list any more than there actually is :). I think we should run the Sekigahara in October for the re-enactment of the battle as we will probably already have one Japanese feature sometime next spring ([[Public baths in Japan]] as FTT). --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 08:50, 10 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Not Yet''' With zero "Eat" or "Buy" listings, this article has not earned guide status. We should not be saying things like "some decent restaurants and cafes opened both in the battlefield and around the station". Instead, those restaurants and cafes should be given listings. Sekigahara's website shows that the city has numerous restaurants. Similarly "souvenir shops around town" should be given listings. Other encampments should also be given listings. They will not overwhelm the article and they provide deeper understanding of the battle, especially in an article that says you won't understand if you don't speak Japanese. The article also doesn't list much outside of the battlefield. No War Land? No cave? No mention of the Nakasendo post town (Sekigahara-juku)? How about the opportunity to don samurai outfits? I have been to Sekigahara numerous times. It wasn't really on my radar to edit, but maybe I can try adding things here and there to get it up to standard. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:59, 30 June 2024 (UTC) ::Better to run it in the spring, then, if there's content that needs to be added to the article. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:51, 11 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article now has listings for the sites mentioned in [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]]'s comment, including for restaurants. The article is still at Usable status but can be upgraded to Guide before being featured. --[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 08:12, 10 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. The article has been significantly upgraded and looks like it is in great shape now. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:29, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' Major concerns were addressed, but I think do think October is the most appropriate time to feature it to coincide with the battle. Sekigahara is still pretty cold in March. What is the reason for specifying March-May as the feature months? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:39, 8 January 2025 (UTC) *:I don't see why we can't wait until October – what should replace Sekigahara in March then? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:51, 8 January 2025 (UTC) *:I only suggested March-May because I had visited in March 2023 and it was pleasant and warm, and because the cherry blossoms were starting to bloom. It's fine by me if Sekigahara is rescheduled to October; it's also fine if it's left as-is. [[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 09:41, 14 January 2025 (UTC) *::I've removed it from March, left it as a vacant spot for now. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:43, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - sounds like a cool place. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:55, 19 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Paldiski]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Paldiski | blurb=In this Baltic Sea port you can dive into the remains of the former Soviet Union. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:54, 15 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=Our first feature from the Baltic States in another category than DotM. The article is a translation of a ru-WV Star article by me. The article can possibly be expanded a little, but fact remains that you won't find too many places to eat and drink here (or at least was the case back in 2019 when I visited). | DotMImage=[[File:Sadama street Paldiski Estonia.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' however listings need to be checked preferably a month or so before featuring per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:54, 15 November 2024 (UTC) :*It looks like it could use some copy editing before it's featured. I [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Paldiski&diff=4970208&oldid=4970184 did some]. It will be a viable feature article once this is taken care of, though. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:01, 15 November 2024 (UTC) *'''Close''' per Ikan. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:28, 8 December 2024 (UTC) * '''Needs work'''. The first half of this article is excellent. However, some of the sections such as "Sleep" are seriously lacking. The only hotel listing with information is noted for having bad ratings. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:35, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' - Seems too lightweight to be a "guide". 3 restaurants and 2 hotels seems more inline with "usable" status. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:30, 27 February 2025 (UTC) : Well, as noted in the nomination comment I wouldn't expect there to be much more to add. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:36, 13 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Forillon National Park]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Forillon National Park | blurb=The final Land's End of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape is an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore. | status=Guide | time=June-August | nominatedBy=<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=The article is in excellent shape, with the exception of a couple external links, which are a five-minute fix. | DotMImage=[[File:La Chute - Forillon National Park.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' <s>pending minor fixes</s> {{done}}. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) * The article looks good, so a '''support''' for that. However, I remember that [[Gaspé Peninsula]] where the national park is was [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Slush_pile#Gaspé_Peninsula|nominated for OtBP]] by Andre who wrote many of the articles from this region, so maybe we should put this article too in the OtBP category? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:23, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *:I considered that as well. It seemed a fairly prominent national park, but admittedly, I have never been to Canada so I don't know whether it would be considered "off the beaten path" or not. Any thoughts from our Canadian editors? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]]? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 20:15, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support''' It is not a big name. It may be well-known in Quebec, but most Canadians won't have heard of it. SelfieCity: for the love of all that is good, why ''haven't'' you been to Canada? We are one of only two countries that share a land border with the U.S. And it's pretty nice up here. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:33, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *:Indeed, I do need to visit Canada sometime. Good to know about the location, and I suggest we move this to OTBP. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support as OtBP''' per nom and GZ. Looks great, though the listings might need a last-minute check right before we feature the article. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:46, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ::I have updated many listings, but the hikingbtrails section should be checked to ensure it is still up to date. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:01, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:{{ping|SHB2000}} Given how short summers can be in this part of Canada, I'd suggest making this the July OTBP (per above discussion), giving time to go there in August or early September, and Vaals the August feature. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 02:35, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *::That would also work. I was thinking of featuring this for August given how close by Maine is (on a grand scale), but I can't see it being too much of an issue. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:38, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:::I agree but the [[Gaspe]] region gets much colder going into winter. Regardless the schedule works! <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 03:26, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support''' - Detailed, lively and complete. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:34, 27 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Bowling Green (Ohio)]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Bowling Green, Ohio | blurb="Bee Gee" is centered around its State University with a range of student events and lively pubs during semesters, and a Midwestern small town feel around the year. | status=Guide | time=September 2025 when the college semester has begun? Otherwise Spring or Fall probably | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=A few years ago [[User:Mbrickn|Mbrickn]] improved many articles from Ohio, for instance this one. This is a clean and extensive article that could pretty much be featured today. Mbrickn hasn't been active here as of lately but their great work surely deserves a month on the Main Page, especially as we've apparently never featured anything from Ohio. | DotMImage=[[File:Bowling Green Ohio Main Street.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 20:43, 15 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} Listings may need an update closer to featuring, but other than that, there aren't any glaring issues. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:39, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' Sorry for the late return - I would be happy to review and update if this helps. --[[User:Mbrickn|Mbrickn]] ([[User talk:Mbrickn|talk]]) 19:43, 28 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Andorra la Vella]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Andorra la Vella | blurb='''[[Andorra la Vella]]''' is the capital of a quirky co-principality lodged in the mountains between Spain and France that offers great skiing, hiking, and lots of duty-free shopping. | status=Guide | time=A year-round destination. | nominatedBy=[[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 09:39, 2 February 2025 (UTC) | comment=Andorra is a place that isn't that easy to get to as it hasn't an airport, but it isn't impossible, and it will definitely attract attention from readers interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations. And it would be the first feature for Andorra. | DotMImage=[[File:Andorra la Vella - footpath.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as per my comments on [[Talk:Andorra la Vella]] – it may need some last-minute updates closer to featuring, but that's about it I think (also keeping in mind that despite Andorra la Vella giving the illusion of a capital city, it's still only a small town). --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:07, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per above. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 18:14, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - I've noticed [[User:Ground Zero|your]] great work on the article, hope you're having a great time there, and it's also nice to see a feature from a country we've (unsurprisingly) not had any features from previously. Maybe it'd be suitable as a skiing destination next winter? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:42, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:40, 19 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Happy to have updated this page when I visited in 2018 and see this being featured. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 14:30, 24 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Saint-Louis]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Saint-Louis | blurb=Once the colonial capital of French West Africa, Saint-Louis boasts a world heritage listed old town and lively markets and is a gateway to the Langue de Barbarie National Park | status=Guide | time=Nov-May is the dry season, according to [[:w:Saint-Louis, Senegal|Wikipedia]] | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:05, 21 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=Time to think about some article's for the end of the year. Here's another one of our relatively few African guide articles that we haven't featured yet. I sorted out this article, deleted dead businesses and added coordinates a while ago... but looking at the article history that was apparently back in 2020! So even if it has a lot of content it needs an update again, closer to the time it is featured. | DotMImage=[[File:Saintlouis pont Faidherbe.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Pending update''' per comment, otherwise good to go. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:05, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support, with one question'''. First up, thanks for the updates! It's looking real nice now that it's been updated now. But I do wonder if this is better suited as a DotM? It's reasonably well-known especially as a former colonial capital. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:37, 21 March 2025 (UTC) :: Well, it was five years ago I polished up a couple of articles from parts of the world we don't cover that well, so the listings need to be checked again. It seems Saint-Louis is a place that could work as both as an DotM or an OtBP. On one hand it's one of Senegal's top destinations and as such you will meet other visitors also, but it takes a little effort to get there and Senegal is only 107th in the World tourism rankings (13th in Africa), so I put it in OtBP (and nominated it now because we have fewer candidates in this section), but it can be moved to DotM. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:03, 21 March 2025 (UTC) :::Yeah, you definitely are right that it works both as a DotM and an OtBP. I think I have a slight preference towards DotM because this and [[Dakar]] are likely the only Senegalese destinations that we could ever feature as a DotM. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:11, 21 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[El Cuyo]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=El Cuyo | blurb=Virtually unknown to foreign travelers only a few years ago, El Cuyo beckons to visitors looking for a quiet, natural seaside town to bask in the sun undisturbed by revelers while other visitors seek adrenaline-pumping excitement as they take advantage of the kind of steady sea breezes that make it an ideal kitesurfing destination. It's secluded and just enough of a pain to get to to keep crowds away, but close enough to Cancun that you can get there cheaply and easily within a few hours. | status=Guide | time=Nov-May is the dry season, which is also sunny and warm while much of the northern hemisphere freezes | nominatedBy=[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:57, 7 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Not many Mexican destinations have been featured. Here's one that's very new with nothing outdated. All sections have appropriate content and it should be ready to go whenever a suitable time for it comes up. | DotMImage=[[File:El Cuyo, Yucatan, Mexico Dec 2021 - Boats.jpg|thumb|El Cuyo, Yucatan]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. It might need a bit of cleanup and expansion, but otherwise good to go. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:57, 7 April 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} this is nearly perfect. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:23, 7 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - looks good! (The standard Ypsilon complaint: a couple of photos in the latter half would be nice to have). I was recently thinking about nominating one of the many Mexican guide articles you've been working on, but wasn't sure which to choose. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:08, 11 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Ko Kret]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Ko Kret | blurb=Experience the culture of the Mon people, including their pottery and cuisine, on this island just outside Bangkok | status=Guide | time=Nov-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:42, 21 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Time to think about early 2026's OtBP articles, how about taking our readers to a small river island in Thailand? As usual we have to check if everything listed is still in business and if prices and such details are about right. The lack of coordinates in some listings mean that they may have been added over ten years ago. | DotMImage=[[File:Village1 House.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' - ie. updates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:42, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Close''', pending significant updates + coordinates. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:01, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ==Nominations for Featured travel topic== ===[[San Diego International Airport]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=San Diego International Airport | blurb=The main airport to America's finest city is the busiest single runway airport in the world, | status=Guide | time=Year round, not only because there are people who change planes in the San Diego International Airport, but also because San Diego itself is a good place to visit any time of the year. | nominatedBy=[[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 04:28, 20 August 2024 (UTC)Someonehere12345 | comment=Last time an article from an airport in the United States was featured travel topic, it was November 2019 Atlanta. (please note I do not have a banner in mind, but if anyone does then feel free to bring it up in the destination of the month candidates/banners page. | DotMImage=[[File:San Diego International Airport Oct 7, 2019.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator--[[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 04:32, 20 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' - nicely complete article that's up-to-date. Great airport too, very convenient to the downtown area. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 16:43, 30 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Very very close''' - would be nice to have a few more pictures here and there. Otherwise it's apparently up to date and good to go. As YVR is going on the Main Page next spring, this will probably have to sit around here on the nominations page for a while as we don't want to run similar articles (in this case airport articles) too close to each other in the schedule... --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:58, 20 September 2024 (UTC) *:I just added a few more images [[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 22:45, 23 September 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:02, 4 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Very close'''. "Sleep" would benefit from more detail in the listings. I also think that th Eat and Drink sections should be separated. However, this one looks close to feature-able status. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:37, 7 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Gemstones]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Gemstones | blurb=Many travellers buy gems or jewellery during their journeys. | status=Guide | time=any | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 20:38, 3 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=There are both some fine bargains to be had and some incredibly bad "tourist trap" deals. | DotMImage=[[File:Jade FiveRats.jpg|thumb|Chinese jade pendant|300px]] }} *<s>'''Needs work'''</s> – in particular, the [[Gemstones#Museums|&sect; Museums]] section which is lacking many details and coordinates. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:01, 4 October 2024 (UTC) *: The museums now have coordinates (they already had links to the listings, from where I got the coords), and the collections and gems have wikidata links (except the Three Treasures, which don't seem to have an article in Wikipedia in English). They have descriptions; what more details would be needed? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:12, 4 October 2024 (UTC) *::{{s}} upon further improvements. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:36, 1 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close''' The other parts of the article look good, but surely there must be more than four gemstone museums in the world worth visiting? I would also believe that some mines have visitor centers and/or can be visited as such. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:56, 1 November 2024 (UTC) :: I did a web search & added some I found. :: No doubt more could be done. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 18:04, 1 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close'''. There are still some coordinates and listing details missing, which should be present to feature this article. But I think it is possible to get this feature-ready. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:40, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:I've scheduled this for August –&nbsp;I think that's plenty of time to fix any issues with this article. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:39, 21 January 2025 (UTC) : There are unanswered questions on the talk page about [[Gemstones#Stones]] :: How should this section be organised? Alphabetised? Split up into sections for for precious & semi-precious? :: Some stones get their own headings & subsections, starting at [[Gemstones#Rubies_and_sapphires]]. All the others just have listings. Do we have the mix right? Should other precious stones -- diamond & emerald -- have their own subsections? Perhaps a subsection for quartz minerals since at least a half dozen of those can be used as gems? : I think these should be answered before we feature the article. Suggestions? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 05:48, 6 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Sound of Music]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sound of Music | blurb=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. | status=Guide | time=Spring or summer. 2025 is the film's 60th anniversary. Not sure whether there are public events dedicated to the film. | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 23:32, 3 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=We have had surprisingly few features from [[Austria]]. Previous versions of the country's article (and its blurb in [[Central Europe]]) have criticized the film's stereotypic depictions of the country. This article was recently expanded to give background on the real Trapp family, the German film about them, and the inaccuracies and controversies of ''Sound of Music''. Some more information about how to find and visit the venues might be useful. | DotMImage=[[File:Schloss Leopoldskron Salzburg.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Comment'''. I don't think the musical had anything to do with Hollywood, so the blurb needs tweaking. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:32, 7 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Very very close''' - as discussed on the talk page, a couple of more photos would be nice. Moreover, some of the listings in the end of the article have quite short descriptions. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:14, 7 November 2024 (UTC) *'''Support'''. I watched this film many times as a child,and have much enjoyed doing my share of work on this article to complete it and address all the issues listings-wise, and at this moment it has attained a good shape. It must be mentioned that the term "Hollywood version" is very much used throughout the article, synonymous with "American version", to disambiguate from the 1956 "German version". This metonym is not very accurate, as 20th Century Studios are in [[Century City]] and not Hollywood, but I don't see it as an issue that could prevent the article of making FTT. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 10:54, 20 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:41, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} per Ibaman. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:33, 3 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Driving in China]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Driving in China | blurb=China isn't one of the countries that foreigners commonly explore by driving themselves. If you'd still like to, the first step would be getting a local driving license. | status=Guide | time=Any, though maybe not in mid-winter | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:50, 21 January 2025 (UTC) | comment="Driving in..." articles have been a rare sight on the Main Page in the last couple of years as you can see in [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. Here's an interesting one. The article looks really extensive, but the content and headings perhaps need to be rearranged. On the other hand I don't remember if we have any standard order for the information in driving articles. | DotMImage=[[File:PeopleSquareTraffic.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' per comment. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:50, 21 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:15, 21 January 2025 (UTC) *Definitely needs more copy editing. I edited the lede and part of "Understand," and there was a lot of redundancy and some lack of articles and such. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:05, 31 March 2025 (UTC) === [[Dehydration]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Dehydration | blurb=A condition that may affect travellers in many places and for many reasons. Never pleasant, sometimes fatal. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:Coach Ken, Hydrate or die 120521-F-WX664-210.jpg|thumb]] | comment=The most common causes are severe [[diarrhea]], sweating a lot in [[hot weather]] or during strenuous activity such as a [[marathon race]], and water evaporating more quickly at lower air pressure, which is a factor in [[altitude sickness]]. Dehydration is also a factor in [[hangover]]s. This article can be relevant for a fairly broad range of travellers. | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 22:15, 14 February 2025 (UTC) }} *{{s}} I mentioned before that it is short, but I really don't think much else needs to be added without it duplicating other articles such as [[hot weather]] or [[arid region safety]]. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:30, 14 February 2025 (UTC) : '''Comment:''' This article is most relevant internationally during northern summer (June to August); however, this period tends to be highly requested for featured articles. This article is short, though it covers the necessities of the topic. As long as we have no formal rules for the minimum length of a featured article or a guide-level article, this is not an issue. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 00:30, 21 February 2025 (UTC) :: The only thing I know of that it might be missing is anything about dairy products; see [[Talk:Dehydration#Questions]]. I'm not sure what could be said about those. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 04:15, 21 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''': although also mentioned at [[Hot weather]], I believe this article should contain a discussion regarding heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke in particular has some different instructions from typical dehydration that should receive a mention: "Cool their body with cool (not ice cold, but if ice is all you have then make sure it doesn't make direct contact with the patient's skin) water and fan them. Do not force an unconscious person to drink anything." (from [[Hot weather#Heat stroke]]). <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 00:59, 26 February 2025 (UTC) :: I added a one-liner: ::: All of the conditions mentioned above can also involve problems other than dehydration; see the linked articles for details. :: Is that enough? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:56, 12 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''': Although we don't use references, I think it is helpful if an medical travel topic has links to reliable sources, either in the article or on the talk page. In particular, I would like to know why we are recommending 8g of salt per litre of water. The [https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-FCH-CAH-06.1 WHO] suggest 2.6g of salt in one publication, and changed their formula in 2003, but I expect that there are many other different recommendations. [[:Wikipedia:Management of dehydration]] has advice on pausing briefly during vomiting. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 13:51, 13 April 2025 (UTC) :: The current recipe with 8g is text that I moved here, unaltered, from the diarrhea article. Apparently it needs improvement. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 13:03, 18 April 2025 (UTC) :: {{ping|Doc James}} [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 20:06, 29 April 2025 (UTC) :::Agree the recommended sodium was too high and I have dropped it in half with a reference to the Alberta Health Services. Also added details and a picture of a water filter [[User:Doc James|<span style="color:#0000f1">'''Travel Doc James'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Doc_James|talk]] · [[Special:Contributions/Doc_James|contribs]] · [[Special:EmailUser/Doc_James|email]]) 14:12, 1 May 2025 (UTC) ::::Thanks, the new recipe is more what I was expecting and I like the linked article giving several variations. I now '''support''' featuring this. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:45, 2 May 2025 (UTC) === [[Carpets]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Carpets | blurb=A popular souvenir and a reason for some museum visits. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:Russian_Bouchara.jpg|thumb]] | comment=Mainly but not only for travellers in Asia. | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 17:01, 17 February 2025 (UTC) }} * '''Support''' - looks quite extensive. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:12, 25 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Japanese castles]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Japanese castles | blurb='''[[Japanese castles]]''' are a striking combination of form and function, which served simultaneously as defensive bases, symbols of might and luxurious residences. | status=Guide | time=Any time of year | nominatedBy=[[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 23:18, 17 February 2025 (UTC) | comment= | DotMImage=[[File:Matsumoto_Castle05s5s4592.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Not yet''' To me, the article is lacking in actual castle listings aside from the 12 originals. It may be the way the article is structured, I'm not sure, but exemplary castles in terms of historical events, historical figures, construction or aspects of its construction, architecture, time periods, etc. should be listed with explanations. Articles like this should be pointing people with an interest in castles towards destinations that cater to that interest. Like a lot of our travel topics, it is too Wikipedia not enough travel (or voyage). To me, I think it's a good start-up article but I don't think it's a "guide status" article. Like I said, I'm not sure if it would work better with a different structuring or maybe it just needs listings within the current structure. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:22, 20 February 2025 (UTC) *: I'm not sure I agree. The article provides a ton of detailed information about Japanese castles in general (yes, Wikipedia-style, but it's appropriate here), then listings of every single original castle in Japan with succinct descriptions and why you'd want to visit. Isn't this enough? Opening hours and similar nitty-gritty belongs in the destination articles. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 23:54, 20 February 2025 (UTC) *::None of the issues I stated above suggested I was concerned about listing opening hours. I'd like the castle travel article to feature castles to travel to. The 12 originals are in the [[Japan]] article, so if that's "enough", the article is redundant. The "detailed information" is all fluff and filler without relating it to castles that can be visited. Most people with an interest in Japanese castles would already be aware of the 12 originals, so it's not a very useful article in its current state. It has a workable structure but is underdeveloped. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:11, 21 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Along the Rambla of Montevideo]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Along the Rambla of Montevideo | blurb=This 22-kilometre network of streets passes through many of Montevideo's main sights along its coastline. | status=Guide | time=Southern summer/autumn | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:31, 3 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=Recently came across this article written by {{u|Ypsilon}} and I must say I'm rather pleased with how detailed it is. Since most of it was only written a few months ago, few updates are needed (if any) and I can't see anything critical missing. | DotMImage=[[File:Rambla de Pocitos.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} per my nomination statement. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:31, 3 March 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} an interesting topic with good local color. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 12:56, 10 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', excellent article with minimal to no edits needed before featuring. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:03, 6 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Rail travel in Great Britain]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Rail travel in Great Britain | blurb=200 years ago, on 27 September 1825, the first ever passenger train ran between Stockton-on-Tees and Darlington. Since then, the rail network in Great Britain has become one of the world's densest and most well-utilised systems. | status=Guide | time=September 2025 | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:08, 21 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=As suggested by {{u|Grahamsands}} in the pub, we as Wikivoyage should do something to commemorate the 200th anniversary of rail travel and I think featuring this article is one of the best things we can do to celebrate this. | DotMImage=[[File:Dawlish - DBS 67029 going to Paignton.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' - it's been a while since our last "Rail travel in..." feature, and it would be a superb timing to run it for the 200th anniversary of rail travel overall. It's a very extensive article that's been on my radar for some time too, though I vaguely remember some British editor ([[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|TT]]?) saying there was something important missing from the article. As I can't remember what it was, and it was a couple of years ago, it's possible that the issue has been fixed. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:16, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' as initiator. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 15:25, 22 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' - I considered nominating this about a week ago - drafted a nomination and everything - but decided against it. The passenger rail system is being gradually renationalised, so there will be a lot of upcoming changes to the system and hence this article. The details of the rollout are still a little wooly, but at some point in the next three years (and possibly as early as this May, when SWR becomes the first company in England to be formally renationalised), Network Rail, National Rail and the vast majority of the train companies will be retired and replaced by "Great British Railways". So, I certainly agree the anniversary makes this a good year to feature this article, and the big changes in how the system will be run also merit highlighting. However, I'm concerned it might be more of a work in progress than a feature normally is. Is that a problem? : As for what the missing info might have been, [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]]'s guess is as good as mine, but I'll try to make my thinker work and get back to you if I remember.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 01:37, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', despite it likely needing rewriting before its feature. Possible smaller inaccuracies can always be warned for using an infobox in the most relevant section. If I can be of any help in keeping the article updated despite my lack of experience with the British network, let me know. I'm happy to help if I can. <br/> <span style="font-family:atkinson hyperlegible">― '''[[User:Wauteurz|Wauteurz]]''' <small>([[User talk:Wauteurz|talk]])</small></span> 18:37, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article is good and has been regularly updated. I don't think the renationalisation will require significant changes to the article. There are already nationalised rail companies eg LNER and Scotrail, but there was little difference in the passenger experience when they were nationalised. There will need to be small updates as companies change name etc, but don't expect big changes to fares etc. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:34, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * Thanks for the support. I'll open a thread on the RT in GB discussion, as overhaul of the content would be helpful regardless of the nomination. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 14:32, 28 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', great idea to draw attention to the 200th anniversary of rail travel. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 17:29, 2 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per others. Great feature choice and there seem to be plenty of people interested in making edits to this article to fix any issues before it is featured. === [[Tagalog phrasebook]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Tagalog phrasebook | blurb=Some Tagalog can come in handy if planning a trip to the Philippines, which isn't the most touristy part of Southeast Asia. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:2019-07-08 Tagalog swimming pool rules signs Villa Filomena resort Indang Cavite 0649.jpg|thumb]] | comment=In the beginning of the year, we have traditionally featured one of our many guide phrasebooks. How about this one for some month in early 2026? | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:05, 25 April 2025 (UTC) }} * '''Support, but''' as almost always with phrasebooks, more photos are needed before feature to make it a bit more exciting visually. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:05, 25 April 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' – looks great, except for more photos as you mention. Maybe a bit of verification from a tl speaker would also help. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:03, 25 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Expo 2025]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Osaka Expo | blurb=The Osaka World Expo 2025 is an exhibit of culture and technological advancements of 158 countries, 9 international organizations, and Japanese corporations. Come and enjoy before it ends on October 15. | status=Guide | time=The Expo ends on October 15, so this would need to be featured soon. | DotMImage=[[File:EXPO2025 null2 Appearance.jpg|thumb]] | comment= | nominatedBy=[[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:40, 8 July 2025 (UTC) }} * Because this is a current but limited time event, this is a time-sensitive nomination. These sorts of articles are rarely edited enough before the event ends to be used, but I'm wondering if this one could actually be featured. I can get explanations for the remaining pavilions. I could also probably at least get listings for buildings that hold restaurants. The pavilion that have restaurants already state that in their listings. Could this be featured or is it a waste of time to continue editing? Is it possible to add it as a 4th feature to avoid disrupting the current roster? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:40, 8 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Not yet'''. As much as I feel this expo deserves more exposure and would like to support it, there are some serious gaps in the article, which is currently at ''outline'' status while our standard is for a nominated article to be at least ''guide''. If the article can be expanded, strengthened, and gotten to guide level I would be happy to change my vote to support. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 13:51, 8 July 2025 (UTC) :: I have now completed descriptions for all of the pavilions. It is a "guide" article. Is it good enough to be featured now? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 10:29, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' – perhaps would it make sense to feature this separately as a "what's on" section and not as an FTT? Rail travel in GB was specifically chosen for the September slot because it marks the 200th anniversary of the first railway. Maybe would it make more sense to feature this in August? When does Expo 2025 start – that would influence my opinion with the timing. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:12, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Not yet''' as we have discouraged articles for one-off events. If we would find consensus that events such as this are viable as articles, with at least one prime example, we could amend [[Wikivoyage:What is an article?]] /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:56, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * [[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]], That's what I was thinking. If it could be an additional feature that didn't disrupt the current roster, it would be easier to feature. [[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]], when you say "not yet", you mean the article itself is invalid and should not exist? I didn't create it, but it's odd that this and Olympics articles are allowed to be created if they are articles that are wholly unwanted... What do you think about SHB's suggestion to feature it as its own thing so it doesn't take another places spot? Or is this something that should be taken to the Pub to get more opinions? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 15:14, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Almost''', but has it come too late? This is the best of the 4 Expo articles which we have had over the years ([[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2005]], [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2010]] and [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2015]]). Other events that often have articles are the Olympics and football. Today is close to the middle of the 6 month run of the event, so we would have to think of postponing [[Sound of Music]] or [[Gemstones]], as the September slot is taken. Having it as an extra featured article might be better. :The article needs a cropped banner and the text could be improved in places. Some questions spring to mind: When does Expo close in the evening? Is there much variation in the prices of food in different pavilions? Are there restrictions on bringing in food? Are there particular days that are quieter or busier than others? [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 23:02, 9 July 2025 (UTC) ::I have added information about bringing food and drinks. As far as quiet days, price differences, and closing times, what section do you think these should go in? I added information to "Get in", but I'm not sure these should all go there. Reservations are probably also something that should be addressed. Is a subheading in "Understand" the most logical place? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:47, 10 July 2025 (UTC) f32tysk4lcvm2x7bckipsow1pnl9vxc 5091105 5091102 2025-07-11T00:43:50Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Forillon National Park */ 5091105 wikitext text/x-wiki {{shortcut|[[Dotm]]<br>[[Otbp]]<br>[[Ftt]]}} Here we determine which articles are featured on the [[Main Page]] as [[Previous Destinations of the month|Destination of the month]] (DotM), [[Previously Off the beaten path|Off the Beaten Path]] (OtBP) and [[Previous Featured travel topics|Featured travel topics]] (FTT). ==Nominate== You can nominate any '''article''' you would like to see featured. Any destination, region, itinerary or event that passes the "[[Project:What is an article?|What is an article?]]" test is eligible for nomination. However, ''before'' nominating, please check that the article follows these basic guidelines: * The nominated article should have an [[Project:article status|article status]] of '''''guide'' or ''star'''''. This includes having at least one good picture, and listings/headers/etc. that match our [[Project:manual of style|manual of style]]. * The nominated article must not have been featured since Wikivoyage became a WMF project in 2013. ** See [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], and [[Previous Featured travel topics]] to check. * If the article has been nominated previously but failed, any objections should be addressed before nominating it again. ** Check the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|slush pile]]. ** If you think a once-slushed destination is now ready to go, list it as new, but with a pointer to the slush pile entry. ** The article should preferably be nominated 3 to 12 months before the intended feature date; ready to feature as is, or with edits that can be done well before featuring. Well-known and/or popular destinations should be nominated as '''Destination of the Month''', while more obscure destinations should be nominated for '''Off the Beaten Path'''. '''Featured Travel Topic''' includes travel topics, phrasebooks, itineraries, and other articles not part of the [[Wikivoyage:Geographic hierarchy|geographic hierarchy]], as well as airports (as they are not usually destinations in their own right). Where applicable, you should propose a good time to visit the destination as a month to be featured. The basic format of a nomination is as follows: <span style=color:green><nowiki>{{FeatureNom</nowiki> <nowiki>| place=Destination</nowiki> <nowiki>| blurb='''[[Destination]]''' is a place of contrasts, and as such it...</nowiki> <nowiki>| status=Guide</nowiki> <nowiki>| time=March-June</nowiki> <nowiki>| nominatedBy=~~~~</nowiki> <nowiki>| comment=Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime.</nowiki> <nowiki>| DotMImage=[[File:Destinationimage.jpg|thumb|300px]]</nowiki> <nowiki>}}</nowiki></span> Add a nomination to the ''end'' of the appropriate section. ==Discuss== You can comment on any nomination based on timeliness and adherence to the criteria above, just add a bullet point (*) and your signed opinion. <nowiki>===[[Destination]]===</nowiki> <nowiki>Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime. TravelNut 25:25, 31 Feb 2525 (UTC)</nowiki> <span style=color:green><nowiki>* Looks nice, but shouldn't the Do section contain more than just quilting contests? ~~~~</nowiki></span> Please note that the following are '''not''' considered valid reasons to oppose a nomination: * '''"I don't like it."''' All objections have to be based on the guidelines above: poor formatting, missing information, etc. Personal opinions, dislikes, etc. do not count. * '''"Wrong time of year."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Timing can be worked out later. * '''"Wrong type of place."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Whether it's DotM or OtBP can be worked out later. ==Select== If an article gets '''three''' comments in favor and no (unresolved) comments against, it's eligible to be placed in an appropriate time-slot in the '''Upcoming''' queue. If the objections are relatively minor and are being worked on, add them to the '''Upcoming''' queue tentatively (add a question mark "?" after the article). Feel free to move the queue around or swap articles if it makes sense. If a nomination clearly does not make the grade and if the objections are not easily fixable, they go into the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|Slush pile]] ([[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile/{{CURRENTYEAR}}|current slush pile]]). Once a nomination has been scheduled, an appropriate banner image and text blurb must be selected. Go to [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners]] to start that discussion. ==Archive== Discussions for previously selected destinations are kept in the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Archive|Archive]]. ==Upcoming== ===Schedule=== The following queue should contain about the next few months' worth of upcoming destinations. Note that new DotMs are rotated in on the '''1st''' of each month, OtBPs on the '''11th''' and travel topics on the '''21st'''. {|border="1" cellspacing=0 cellpadding="3" style="text-align:center" !Month !DotM !OtBP !FTT |- ! align="right" | July 2025 | <s>[[Cuzco]] – pending stronger consensus to support</s> | <s>[[Forillon National Park]] </s> | [[Sound of Music]] – pending minor fixes |- ! align="right" | August 2025 | [[Gothenburg]] – pending minor fixes | [[Paldiski]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus | [[Gemstones]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus |- ! align="right" | September 2025 | [[Canberra/Civic]] | [[Bowling Green (Ohio)]] | [[Rail travel in Great Britain]] |- ! align="right" | October 2025 | [[Parahyangan]] – pending stronger consensus to support | [[Sekigahara]] | [[Driving in China]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support |- ! align="right" | November 2025 | [[San Carlos de Bariloche]] – pending stronger consensus to support | [[Andorra la Vella]] | [[San Diego International Airport]] - pending minor fixes and stronger consensus to support |- ! align="right" | December 2025 | [[Hong Kong/Kowloon]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support | [[Saint-Louis]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support | [[Dehydration]] - pending stronger consensus to support |} Try to avoid two overlapping or back-to-back features from the same country, as well as long streaks of features from the same continent. It is customary to wait 24 months between articles from the same or nearby cities. The schedule is not cast in stone. However, any change made to the schedule should have a compelling reason behind it, and should be effected as far in advance as possible of the article's scheduled term on the Main Page. In particular, unless absolutely necessary, we discourage nominee articles from being slushed or rescheduled after [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners|banners]] have been made for them, which usually happens 2–3 months before being featured. Whenever an article becomes a current feature, it should be removed from the list, the discussion archived, and (when changing out Featured Travel Topics) a new month added to the end of the queue. ===Next changes=== Decisions regarding which images to use as the banners are made at '''[[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners]]'''. The section below provides an opportunity to see what the upcoming featured articles will look like on the [[Main Page]] using the banners that are currently most popular on the above page. {{banner |type=dotm |direction=right |title=Gothenburg |image=GothenburgBanner1.jpg |quote=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months.}} {{banner|direction=right|title=Paldiski|type=otbp|image=PaldiskiBanner1.jpg|quote=In this Baltic Sea port you can dive into the remains of the former Soviet Union.}} <!--{banner |type=otbp |direction=left |title=Forillon National Park |image=Forillon National Park OtBP banner.jpg |quote=The final Land's End of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape is an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore. }}--> {{banner|direction=left|type=ftt|title=Sound of Music|image=SoundOfMusicBanner1.jpg|quote=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. }} ===Updating=== On the date of the scheduled change, the DotM, OtBP, or FTT should be changed as close to midnight UTC as possible. This can only be done by administrators. When the featured page is changed, please follow the following procedures to do so and archive content to the appropriate pages. At each stage, please double-check that you are correctly moving content. Several steps involves copy pasting of the file names of the Main Page banners – former, current, and next – so it can be useful to open those in tabs first. # Update the featured articles on the [[Main Page|main page]] by replacing the current 'banner' template section with those of the appropriate banner for the new DotM/OtBP/FTT found in the ''Next change'' section above. #Update the [[Main_Page/Photo_credits|Photo credits]] page with the banner's '''original image''', title and attribution. # Add the former featured article to the appropriate archive page: [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], or [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. # For the former featured article, add the appropriate parameter to the pagebanner template (directly after the image filename) to label the page as having been featured previously. #* For former DotMs, add: {{!}}dotm=yes #* For former OtBPs, add: {{!}}otbp=yes #* For former FTTs, add: {{!}}ftt=yes # Remove [[Template:Featurenomination]] from newly featured article. # Archive the newly featured article's nomination. Simply cut-and-paste the nomination section of the newly featured article from this page to [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Archive]]. # Update the '''Next change''' section above by adding the banner from [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Banners|the discussion page]]. View the table in the '''Schedule''' section above to determine what next month's change will be, then update the image and blurb in the "Next change" section with that found in the upcoming featured article's nomination. # In the schedule, use <nowiki><s> and </s></nowiki> to strikethrough the newly featured article. Remove the row from the table if the newly featured article is the FTT. #Archive the newly featured article's banner by cutting-and-pasting all banner suggestions and the associated discussion into [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners/Archive]]. ==Nominations for Destination of the Month== ===[[Gothenburg]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Gothenburg | blurb=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=I've been thinking about nominating this article for quite a while now. Some listings look rather bare-bones and a month or two before the article is featured we should check that all the listings are still in business. And my pet peeve :) – the latter half of the article could use some more photos. | DotMImage=[[File:Gothenburg Central Station (Göteborgs Centralstation) 15393945292.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} <s>* '''Almost''' per nomination. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC)</s> ::'''Support''' now after said fixes. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:41, 24 June 2025 (UTC) * '''Almost''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:50, 2 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Almost''' per others. I think this article looks excellent on the whole. I think the "public baths" section needs a rethink, and certainly needs more detail, but otherwise, I think this one can be made feature-ready in a few months. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:23, 7 January 2025 (UTC) : '''Put on hold?''' Provided that [[Cochabamba]] and [[San Carlos de Bariloche]] have sufficient support votes, and a couple of Nordic destinations are scheduled soon; shall we save Gothenburg for 2026? /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 01:08, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::No. As long as it is a requirement to run articles during months when the weather is suitable, we should not on one hand burn the precious summer slots on articles that can be ran other times of the year, and on the other hand burn the precious articles that can be run also during the winter or shoulder seasons during the summer months. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:28, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::Cochabamba and San Carlos de Bariloche are both in the southern hemisphere, so "summer" is actually December-February. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:23, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::::Well, I meant the months from May-September, the summer months in Canada, the US and (the northern half of) Europe from where maybe 3/4 of our current not yet featured articles are from. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 21:39, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::::Right! I knew what you meant, which is why those two mentioned destinations aren't in competition for the "summer" slots since it will be winter down under. By the way, skiing is popular in my family, so we LIKE places that have snowy, icy winter weather! [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 22:30, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::Yes, so some high-latitude destinations can be featured in local winter, but most temperate and arctic cities are more pleasant in summer – especially those that don't have snowy, icy winter weather in winter, but just darkness (with light pollution destroying even that experience) and slush. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:59, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::I think for Gothenberg it's still more appropriate to feature during the summer. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:04, 1 March 2025 (UTC) ::::::::Yes. Its at the coast and much south from Turku, and while we can experience some beautiful winter weather here, it isn't at all guaranteed for somebody staying for a few weeks or less. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:19, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::::Agreed – it also doesn't help that in much of the Southern Hemisphere those months are also dry season. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:32, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::::: Gothenburg has enough indoor destinations to be meaningful as an off-season destination; it is however best at summer. In any case, the article still has zero support votes, and some issues remain. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:20, 5 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::The issues, resulting in the article not having support votes are is basically the fact that the listings need to be checked for up-to-dateness. This is something which could of course have been done last October when nominating the article, but it's much better to do it closer to the time the article is featured. Especially in the case that someone decides to postpone the featuring of the article time of feature. :::::::Recently Recife was featured, and I checked the listings for the THIRD time over the last couple of years. When doing that I was seriously wondering if the time spent on the featured articles and indeed having featured articles could be better used in developing other articles and other aspects of the site as a whole. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:39, 9 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::It may have zero "support" votes, but in this case we should treat "almost" like a support vote because the main thing that needs to happen before featuring is a quick update. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:40, 9 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Canberra/Civic]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Civic | blurb=The central district of Australia's capital [[Canberra]] is compact but punches well above its weight for eating and shopping, becoming particularly active for Canberra's tulip festival, Floriade. | status=Guide | time=September for Floriade (tulip season) | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:47, 1 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=It has been a guide article since 2022 and most listings are no older than 3 years. Thought it would be a good time to feature this for Canberra's annual tulip festival, Floriade, which happens in nearby [[Canberra/North Canberra|Commonwealth Park]] but the CBD area does become active around that time. | DotMImage=[[File:Autumn in Canberra (01).jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:47, 1 January 2025 (UTC) * The article is fine but Civic is just really... boring? I was trying to come up with a catchy blurb but the above is as good as I could get. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 00:23, 2 January 2025 (UTC) *:Honestly, yeah – it gets quite a bit of talk in the planning sphere and circles but other than that, there's nothing particularly exciting about Civic urban planning aspects aside. But thanks for the better blurb – I too kinda struggled to come up with a good blurb. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:56, 2 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - No gaping holes in the article, all listings have coordinates and overall the article looks good. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. I think this article is close to star status, and is definitely good enough to be featured. I commented further at [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations#Canberra/Civic]]. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:55, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Cochabamba]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Cochabamba | blurb=The fourth-largest city in [[Bolivia]], Cochabamba is known as the "Garden City" for its mild climate year-round, cathedral squares, and shops and restaurants. | status=Guide | time=any (however Dec-Feb/Mar [[:w:Cochabamba#Climate|are apparently quite wet]]) | nominatedBy=<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=I've done significant work on this article today to get it up to guide status. I think there are some good restaurants and hotels missing from this list that I might get to, but the article is already in good shape following the addition of coordinates and the removal of closed businesses. Although a check shows we have featured cities in Bolivia before (as recently as last February), South America seems to be underrepresented overall, so this nomination should help with geographic diversity. | DotMImage=[[File:Cochabamba-Plaza.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} per nom – great work on the updates! --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:32, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:Thanks! I've done some more work on the article since. It's great to see the quality of our coverage of Bolivia, with two of the capitals ([[La Paz]] and [[Sucre]]) already having been featured and [[Santa Cruz de la Sierra]] not far from guide status. Many of the smaller towns are also within striking distance of guide status. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 01:59, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *::ikr – it's such an amazing achievement for a country that doesn't get in the spotlight much. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:25, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - solid article with recent updates by SelfieCity. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:51, 25 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Very close''', it's a nice article but the Understand section could be a little bit longer with a couple of paragraphs about the city's history and climate for example. This would also help keeping that map within the Understand section. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:17, 18 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[San Carlos de Bariloche]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=San Carlos de Bariloche | blurb=The Argentine adventure capital offers great opportunities for skiing, sightseeing, water sports, trekking and climbing amidst the amazing mountainous landscapes of Argentine Patagonia. | status=Guide | time=southern spring | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:27, 14 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=Interestingly, we've never had a DotM from Argentina excluding Iguaçu Falls (but 2 from Uruguay and 2 from Chile) and I figured this would be a good one to start with. It might need another checkup closer to featuring and I am in the process of updating many of the listings + adding coordinates, but otherwise I cannot see why we can't feature this. | DotMImage=[[File:View from the Golf course at Llao Llao.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:27, 14 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' pending some small fixes. Some listings need work (descriptions and coordinates) but nothing major that would prevent this one from being featured. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:58, 14 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} looks complete and up-to-date.[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:19, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Parahyangan]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Parahyangan | blurb=The West Javanese region centred around Java's third largest city of Bandung is an excellent place to hike and admire active volcanoes. | status=Guide | time=May–Oct (dry season + good weather for hiking) | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:24, 6 February 2025 (UTC) | comment=It's not often that we feature region articles, but this one has all articles breadcrumbed beneath it as usable or guide, and this will be our first region feature from Java. Since most of our DotMs are filled up for 2025, this might need to wait until 2026, which I have no issue with (I know [[Medan]] was featured only last month as DotM in January, but I don't think that should pose an issue with scheduling as that's on a completely different island). | DotMImage=[[File:Kawah Putih from the bottom, Bandung Regency, 2014-08-21.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} as per nom statement. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:24, 6 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' could use a "Sleep" section with summary info, pointers to which breadcrumbed destinations have best/most listings, and maybe some mentions of particularly interesting places to stay. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:37, 14 February 2025 (UTC) *:Sleep sections are not standard for region articles, though. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:25, 15 February 2025 (UTC) *::Certainly sleep listings are not standard, but a summary or pointers to outstanding/unique lodgings in the region are traveler-centric and *should* be included in any guide-level region article. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:53, 25 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Hong Kong/Kowloon]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Kowloon | blurb=One of the most densely populated cities on Earth, Hong Kong's mainland portion offers a culture less influenced by the British than the neighboring Island, plus accommodation, dining, and nightlife at a comparative bargain. (blurb from its former nomination) | status=Guide | time=Oct-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:41, 21 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Here's another good Northern Hemisphere winter feature. Slushed in 2016, but the reason was that nearby Macau was to be featured then. The article is extensive and tidy, but as usual the listings need to be checked, updated and coordinates added where needed. | DotMImage=[[File:Kowloon Waterfront, Hong Kong, 2013-08-09, DD 03.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' - ie. updates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:41, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work''' - quite a few outdated listings and many without coordinates. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 19:09, 15 May 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work''' as per the comment. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:49, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[Nairobi]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Nairobi | blurb=There's much to experience in the Kenyan capital - from cultural sites and the contrasting high-rises to parks and wildlife. | status=Guide | time=Jan-Feb, Jun-Sep are the drier months | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:07, 18 June 2025 (UTC) | comment=I just promoted this to guide, as it's a really extensive article and could be a nice feature for e.g. early 2026 (to give us one more African feature in addition to Saint-Louis which could be December's OtBP). As usual, some of the information might have gone out of date since it was added, but given that [https://wikimania.wikimedia.org/wiki/2025:Wikimania Wikimania will take place there in August], there's a good chance that the article will get some fresh content already then, especially if Wikivoyage gets some visibility during the event. | DotMImage=[[File:A lone giraffe in Nairobi National Park.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' as usual. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:07, 18 June 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work.''' As mentioned before, the DoTM category has had very few African destinations; most of them have been in OtBP and FTT. Nairobi is one of the continent's most cosmopolitan cities, and deserves to be featured. However, we should not sacrifice quality for diversity. More venues should have coordinates. The [[safari]] destinations within reach from the city could possibly be grouped together, with some general information. General information on price levels and nightlife would be appreciated. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 12:26, 24 June 2025 (UTC) ==Nominations for Off the Beaten Path== ===[[Sekigahara]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sekigahara | blurb= This quaint mountain town and battlefield, where Tokugawa won control of Japan, gives visitors firsthand insight into feudal Japanese warfare. | status=Guide | time=March-May; October | nominatedBy=[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 11:34, 2 May 2024 (UTC) | comment= This town would be perfect for OTBP, given its importance in Japanese history and its well-developed tourist services. It is a small town with very few dining options and lodging (which might be an issue but might not depending on consensus), but it is close to larger Japanese cities like Maibara and Nagoya and would be a perfect day trip from Kyoto et al., especially since it is on a major train line. It is especially beautiful in the spring when the plum and cherry blossoms bloom, but the Battle of Sekigahara was in October of 1600, so it would also work for an October listing. | DotMImage=[[File:Sekigahara Museum and Watertower.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} Can't see anything that would prevent this from being an OtBP. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 12:07, 2 May 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} Article looks good & the site is important. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:00, 2 May 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} The article is good. Having visited once, I can attest that the historical sites are ''really'' not geared for English-speaking visitors, but the article doesn't pretend otherwise and it's fine for a mildly interesting day trip. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 06:01, 3 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Well, if there are few places to eat and drink and sleep, we can't list any more than there actually is :). I think we should run the Sekigahara in October for the re-enactment of the battle as we will probably already have one Japanese feature sometime next spring ([[Public baths in Japan]] as FTT). --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 08:50, 10 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Not Yet''' With zero "Eat" or "Buy" listings, this article has not earned guide status. We should not be saying things like "some decent restaurants and cafes opened both in the battlefield and around the station". Instead, those restaurants and cafes should be given listings. Sekigahara's website shows that the city has numerous restaurants. Similarly "souvenir shops around town" should be given listings. Other encampments should also be given listings. They will not overwhelm the article and they provide deeper understanding of the battle, especially in an article that says you won't understand if you don't speak Japanese. The article also doesn't list much outside of the battlefield. No War Land? No cave? No mention of the Nakasendo post town (Sekigahara-juku)? How about the opportunity to don samurai outfits? I have been to Sekigahara numerous times. It wasn't really on my radar to edit, but maybe I can try adding things here and there to get it up to standard. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:59, 30 June 2024 (UTC) ::Better to run it in the spring, then, if there's content that needs to be added to the article. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:51, 11 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article now has listings for the sites mentioned in [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]]'s comment, including for restaurants. The article is still at Usable status but can be upgraded to Guide before being featured. --[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 08:12, 10 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. The article has been significantly upgraded and looks like it is in great shape now. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:29, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' Major concerns were addressed, but I think do think October is the most appropriate time to feature it to coincide with the battle. Sekigahara is still pretty cold in March. What is the reason for specifying March-May as the feature months? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:39, 8 January 2025 (UTC) *:I don't see why we can't wait until October – what should replace Sekigahara in March then? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:51, 8 January 2025 (UTC) *:I only suggested March-May because I had visited in March 2023 and it was pleasant and warm, and because the cherry blossoms were starting to bloom. It's fine by me if Sekigahara is rescheduled to October; it's also fine if it's left as-is. [[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 09:41, 14 January 2025 (UTC) *::I've removed it from March, left it as a vacant spot for now. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:43, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - sounds like a cool place. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:55, 19 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Paldiski]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Paldiski | blurb=In this Baltic Sea port you can dive into the remains of the former Soviet Union. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:54, 15 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=Our first feature from the Baltic States in another category than DotM. The article is a translation of a ru-WV Star article by me. The article can possibly be expanded a little, but fact remains that you won't find too many places to eat and drink here (or at least was the case back in 2019 when I visited). | DotMImage=[[File:Sadama street Paldiski Estonia.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' however listings need to be checked preferably a month or so before featuring per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:54, 15 November 2024 (UTC) :*It looks like it could use some copy editing before it's featured. I [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Paldiski&diff=4970208&oldid=4970184 did some]. It will be a viable feature article once this is taken care of, though. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:01, 15 November 2024 (UTC) *'''Close''' per Ikan. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:28, 8 December 2024 (UTC) * '''Needs work'''. The first half of this article is excellent. However, some of the sections such as "Sleep" are seriously lacking. The only hotel listing with information is noted for having bad ratings. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:35, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' - Seems too lightweight to be a "guide". 3 restaurants and 2 hotels seems more inline with "usable" status. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:30, 27 February 2025 (UTC) : Well, as noted in the nomination comment I wouldn't expect there to be much more to add. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:36, 13 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Forillon National Park]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Forillon National Park | blurb=The final Land's End of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape is an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore. | status=Guide | time=June-August | nominatedBy=<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=The article is in excellent shape, with the exception of a couple external links, which are a five-minute fix. | DotMImage=[[File:La Chute - Forillon National Park.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' <s>pending minor fixes</s> {{done}}. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) * The article looks good, so a '''support''' for that. However, I remember that [[Gaspé Peninsula]] where the national park is was [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Slush_pile#Gaspé_Peninsula|nominated for OtBP]] by Andre who wrote many of the articles from this region, so maybe we should put this article too in the OtBP category? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:23, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *:I considered that as well. It seemed a fairly prominent national park, but admittedly, I have never been to Canada so I don't know whether it would be considered "off the beaten path" or not. Any thoughts from our Canadian editors? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]]? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 20:15, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support''' It is not a big name. It may be well-known in Quebec, but most Canadians won't have heard of it. SelfieCity: for the love of all that is good, why ''haven't'' you been to Canada? We are one of only two countries that share a land border with the U.S. And it's pretty nice up here. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:33, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *:Indeed, I do need to visit Canada sometime. Good to know about the location, and I suggest we move this to OTBP. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support as OtBP''' per nom and GZ. Looks great, though the listings might need a last-minute check right before we feature the article. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:46, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ::I have updated many listings, but the hikingbtrails section should be checked to ensure it is still up to date. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:01, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:{{ping|SHB2000}} Given how short summers can be in this part of Canada, I'd suggest making this the July OTBP (per above discussion), giving time to go there in August or early September, and Vaals the August feature. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 02:35, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *::That would also work. I was thinking of featuring this for August given how close by Maine is (on a grand scale), but I can't see it being too much of an issue. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:38, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:::I agree but the [[Gaspe]] region gets much colder going into winter. Regardless the schedule works! <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 03:26, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support''' - Detailed, lively and complete. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:34, 27 February 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' OtBP for July 2025. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:43, 11 July 2025 (UTC) ===[[Bowling Green (Ohio)]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Bowling Green, Ohio | blurb="Bee Gee" is centered around its State University with a range of student events and lively pubs during semesters, and a Midwestern small town feel around the year. | status=Guide | time=September 2025 when the college semester has begun? Otherwise Spring or Fall probably | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=A few years ago [[User:Mbrickn|Mbrickn]] improved many articles from Ohio, for instance this one. This is a clean and extensive article that could pretty much be featured today. Mbrickn hasn't been active here as of lately but their great work surely deserves a month on the Main Page, especially as we've apparently never featured anything from Ohio. | DotMImage=[[File:Bowling Green Ohio Main Street.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 20:43, 15 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} Listings may need an update closer to featuring, but other than that, there aren't any glaring issues. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:39, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' Sorry for the late return - I would be happy to review and update if this helps. --[[User:Mbrickn|Mbrickn]] ([[User talk:Mbrickn|talk]]) 19:43, 28 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Andorra la Vella]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Andorra la Vella | blurb='''[[Andorra la Vella]]''' is the capital of a quirky co-principality lodged in the mountains between Spain and France that offers great skiing, hiking, and lots of duty-free shopping. | status=Guide | time=A year-round destination. | nominatedBy=[[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 09:39, 2 February 2025 (UTC) | comment=Andorra is a place that isn't that easy to get to as it hasn't an airport, but it isn't impossible, and it will definitely attract attention from readers interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations. And it would be the first feature for Andorra. | DotMImage=[[File:Andorra la Vella - footpath.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as per my comments on [[Talk:Andorra la Vella]] – it may need some last-minute updates closer to featuring, but that's about it I think (also keeping in mind that despite Andorra la Vella giving the illusion of a capital city, it's still only a small town). --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:07, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per above. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 18:14, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - I've noticed [[User:Ground Zero|your]] great work on the article, hope you're having a great time there, and it's also nice to see a feature from a country we've (unsurprisingly) not had any features from previously. Maybe it'd be suitable as a skiing destination next winter? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:42, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:40, 19 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Happy to have updated this page when I visited in 2018 and see this being featured. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 14:30, 24 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Saint-Louis]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Saint-Louis | blurb=Once the colonial capital of French West Africa, Saint-Louis boasts a world heritage listed old town and lively markets and is a gateway to the Langue de Barbarie National Park | status=Guide | time=Nov-May is the dry season, according to [[:w:Saint-Louis, Senegal|Wikipedia]] | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:05, 21 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=Time to think about some article's for the end of the year. Here's another one of our relatively few African guide articles that we haven't featured yet. I sorted out this article, deleted dead businesses and added coordinates a while ago... but looking at the article history that was apparently back in 2020! So even if it has a lot of content it needs an update again, closer to the time it is featured. | DotMImage=[[File:Saintlouis pont Faidherbe.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Pending update''' per comment, otherwise good to go. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:05, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support, with one question'''. First up, thanks for the updates! It's looking real nice now that it's been updated now. But I do wonder if this is better suited as a DotM? It's reasonably well-known especially as a former colonial capital. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:37, 21 March 2025 (UTC) :: Well, it was five years ago I polished up a couple of articles from parts of the world we don't cover that well, so the listings need to be checked again. It seems Saint-Louis is a place that could work as both as an DotM or an OtBP. On one hand it's one of Senegal's top destinations and as such you will meet other visitors also, but it takes a little effort to get there and Senegal is only 107th in the World tourism rankings (13th in Africa), so I put it in OtBP (and nominated it now because we have fewer candidates in this section), but it can be moved to DotM. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:03, 21 March 2025 (UTC) :::Yeah, you definitely are right that it works both as a DotM and an OtBP. I think I have a slight preference towards DotM because this and [[Dakar]] are likely the only Senegalese destinations that we could ever feature as a DotM. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:11, 21 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[El Cuyo]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=El Cuyo | blurb=Virtually unknown to foreign travelers only a few years ago, El Cuyo beckons to visitors looking for a quiet, natural seaside town to bask in the sun undisturbed by revelers while other visitors seek adrenaline-pumping excitement as they take advantage of the kind of steady sea breezes that make it an ideal kitesurfing destination. It's secluded and just enough of a pain to get to to keep crowds away, but close enough to Cancun that you can get there cheaply and easily within a few hours. | status=Guide | time=Nov-May is the dry season, which is also sunny and warm while much of the northern hemisphere freezes | nominatedBy=[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:57, 7 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Not many Mexican destinations have been featured. Here's one that's very new with nothing outdated. All sections have appropriate content and it should be ready to go whenever a suitable time for it comes up. | DotMImage=[[File:El Cuyo, Yucatan, Mexico Dec 2021 - Boats.jpg|thumb|El Cuyo, Yucatan]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. It might need a bit of cleanup and expansion, but otherwise good to go. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:57, 7 April 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} this is nearly perfect. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:23, 7 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - looks good! (The standard Ypsilon complaint: a couple of photos in the latter half would be nice to have). I was recently thinking about nominating one of the many Mexican guide articles you've been working on, but wasn't sure which to choose. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:08, 11 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Ko Kret]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Ko Kret | blurb=Experience the culture of the Mon people, including their pottery and cuisine, on this island just outside Bangkok | status=Guide | time=Nov-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:42, 21 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Time to think about early 2026's OtBP articles, how about taking our readers to a small river island in Thailand? As usual we have to check if everything listed is still in business and if prices and such details are about right. The lack of coordinates in some listings mean that they may have been added over ten years ago. | DotMImage=[[File:Village1 House.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' - ie. updates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:42, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Close''', pending significant updates + coordinates. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:01, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ==Nominations for Featured travel topic== ===[[San Diego International Airport]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=San Diego International Airport | blurb=The main airport to America's finest city is the busiest single runway airport in the world, | status=Guide | time=Year round, not only because there are people who change planes in the San Diego International Airport, but also because San Diego itself is a good place to visit any time of the year. | nominatedBy=[[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 04:28, 20 August 2024 (UTC)Someonehere12345 | comment=Last time an article from an airport in the United States was featured travel topic, it was November 2019 Atlanta. (please note I do not have a banner in mind, but if anyone does then feel free to bring it up in the destination of the month candidates/banners page. | DotMImage=[[File:San Diego International Airport Oct 7, 2019.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator--[[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 04:32, 20 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' - nicely complete article that's up-to-date. Great airport too, very convenient to the downtown area. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 16:43, 30 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Very very close''' - would be nice to have a few more pictures here and there. Otherwise it's apparently up to date and good to go. As YVR is going on the Main Page next spring, this will probably have to sit around here on the nominations page for a while as we don't want to run similar articles (in this case airport articles) too close to each other in the schedule... --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:58, 20 September 2024 (UTC) *:I just added a few more images [[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 22:45, 23 September 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:02, 4 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Very close'''. "Sleep" would benefit from more detail in the listings. I also think that th Eat and Drink sections should be separated. However, this one looks close to feature-able status. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:37, 7 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Gemstones]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Gemstones | blurb=Many travellers buy gems or jewellery during their journeys. | status=Guide | time=any | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 20:38, 3 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=There are both some fine bargains to be had and some incredibly bad "tourist trap" deals. | DotMImage=[[File:Jade FiveRats.jpg|thumb|Chinese jade pendant|300px]] }} *<s>'''Needs work'''</s> – in particular, the [[Gemstones#Museums|&sect; Museums]] section which is lacking many details and coordinates. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:01, 4 October 2024 (UTC) *: The museums now have coordinates (they already had links to the listings, from where I got the coords), and the collections and gems have wikidata links (except the Three Treasures, which don't seem to have an article in Wikipedia in English). They have descriptions; what more details would be needed? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:12, 4 October 2024 (UTC) *::{{s}} upon further improvements. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:36, 1 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close''' The other parts of the article look good, but surely there must be more than four gemstone museums in the world worth visiting? I would also believe that some mines have visitor centers and/or can be visited as such. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:56, 1 November 2024 (UTC) :: I did a web search & added some I found. :: No doubt more could be done. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 18:04, 1 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close'''. There are still some coordinates and listing details missing, which should be present to feature this article. But I think it is possible to get this feature-ready. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:40, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:I've scheduled this for August –&nbsp;I think that's plenty of time to fix any issues with this article. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:39, 21 January 2025 (UTC) : There are unanswered questions on the talk page about [[Gemstones#Stones]] :: How should this section be organised? Alphabetised? Split up into sections for for precious & semi-precious? :: Some stones get their own headings & subsections, starting at [[Gemstones#Rubies_and_sapphires]]. All the others just have listings. Do we have the mix right? Should other precious stones -- diamond & emerald -- have their own subsections? Perhaps a subsection for quartz minerals since at least a half dozen of those can be used as gems? : I think these should be answered before we feature the article. Suggestions? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 05:48, 6 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Sound of Music]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sound of Music | blurb=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. | status=Guide | time=Spring or summer. 2025 is the film's 60th anniversary. Not sure whether there are public events dedicated to the film. | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 23:32, 3 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=We have had surprisingly few features from [[Austria]]. Previous versions of the country's article (and its blurb in [[Central Europe]]) have criticized the film's stereotypic depictions of the country. This article was recently expanded to give background on the real Trapp family, the German film about them, and the inaccuracies and controversies of ''Sound of Music''. Some more information about how to find and visit the venues might be useful. | DotMImage=[[File:Schloss Leopoldskron Salzburg.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Comment'''. I don't think the musical had anything to do with Hollywood, so the blurb needs tweaking. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:32, 7 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Very very close''' - as discussed on the talk page, a couple of more photos would be nice. Moreover, some of the listings in the end of the article have quite short descriptions. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:14, 7 November 2024 (UTC) *'''Support'''. I watched this film many times as a child,and have much enjoyed doing my share of work on this article to complete it and address all the issues listings-wise, and at this moment it has attained a good shape. It must be mentioned that the term "Hollywood version" is very much used throughout the article, synonymous with "American version", to disambiguate from the 1956 "German version". This metonym is not very accurate, as 20th Century Studios are in [[Century City]] and not Hollywood, but I don't see it as an issue that could prevent the article of making FTT. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 10:54, 20 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:41, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} per Ibaman. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:33, 3 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Driving in China]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Driving in China | blurb=China isn't one of the countries that foreigners commonly explore by driving themselves. If you'd still like to, the first step would be getting a local driving license. | status=Guide | time=Any, though maybe not in mid-winter | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:50, 21 January 2025 (UTC) | comment="Driving in..." articles have been a rare sight on the Main Page in the last couple of years as you can see in [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. Here's an interesting one. The article looks really extensive, but the content and headings perhaps need to be rearranged. On the other hand I don't remember if we have any standard order for the information in driving articles. | DotMImage=[[File:PeopleSquareTraffic.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' per comment. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:50, 21 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:15, 21 January 2025 (UTC) *Definitely needs more copy editing. I edited the lede and part of "Understand," and there was a lot of redundancy and some lack of articles and such. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:05, 31 March 2025 (UTC) === [[Dehydration]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Dehydration | blurb=A condition that may affect travellers in many places and for many reasons. Never pleasant, sometimes fatal. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:Coach Ken, Hydrate or die 120521-F-WX664-210.jpg|thumb]] | comment=The most common causes are severe [[diarrhea]], sweating a lot in [[hot weather]] or during strenuous activity such as a [[marathon race]], and water evaporating more quickly at lower air pressure, which is a factor in [[altitude sickness]]. Dehydration is also a factor in [[hangover]]s. This article can be relevant for a fairly broad range of travellers. | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 22:15, 14 February 2025 (UTC) }} *{{s}} I mentioned before that it is short, but I really don't think much else needs to be added without it duplicating other articles such as [[hot weather]] or [[arid region safety]]. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:30, 14 February 2025 (UTC) : '''Comment:''' This article is most relevant internationally during northern summer (June to August); however, this period tends to be highly requested for featured articles. This article is short, though it covers the necessities of the topic. As long as we have no formal rules for the minimum length of a featured article or a guide-level article, this is not an issue. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 00:30, 21 February 2025 (UTC) :: The only thing I know of that it might be missing is anything about dairy products; see [[Talk:Dehydration#Questions]]. I'm not sure what could be said about those. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 04:15, 21 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''': although also mentioned at [[Hot weather]], I believe this article should contain a discussion regarding heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke in particular has some different instructions from typical dehydration that should receive a mention: "Cool their body with cool (not ice cold, but if ice is all you have then make sure it doesn't make direct contact with the patient's skin) water and fan them. Do not force an unconscious person to drink anything." (from [[Hot weather#Heat stroke]]). <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 00:59, 26 February 2025 (UTC) :: I added a one-liner: ::: All of the conditions mentioned above can also involve problems other than dehydration; see the linked articles for details. :: Is that enough? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:56, 12 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''': Although we don't use references, I think it is helpful if an medical travel topic has links to reliable sources, either in the article or on the talk page. In particular, I would like to know why we are recommending 8g of salt per litre of water. The [https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-FCH-CAH-06.1 WHO] suggest 2.6g of salt in one publication, and changed their formula in 2003, but I expect that there are many other different recommendations. [[:Wikipedia:Management of dehydration]] has advice on pausing briefly during vomiting. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 13:51, 13 April 2025 (UTC) :: The current recipe with 8g is text that I moved here, unaltered, from the diarrhea article. Apparently it needs improvement. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 13:03, 18 April 2025 (UTC) :: {{ping|Doc James}} [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 20:06, 29 April 2025 (UTC) :::Agree the recommended sodium was too high and I have dropped it in half with a reference to the Alberta Health Services. Also added details and a picture of a water filter [[User:Doc James|<span style="color:#0000f1">'''Travel Doc James'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Doc_James|talk]] · [[Special:Contributions/Doc_James|contribs]] · [[Special:EmailUser/Doc_James|email]]) 14:12, 1 May 2025 (UTC) ::::Thanks, the new recipe is more what I was expecting and I like the linked article giving several variations. I now '''support''' featuring this. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:45, 2 May 2025 (UTC) === [[Carpets]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Carpets | blurb=A popular souvenir and a reason for some museum visits. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:Russian_Bouchara.jpg|thumb]] | comment=Mainly but not only for travellers in Asia. | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 17:01, 17 February 2025 (UTC) }} * '''Support''' - looks quite extensive. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:12, 25 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Japanese castles]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Japanese castles | blurb='''[[Japanese castles]]''' are a striking combination of form and function, which served simultaneously as defensive bases, symbols of might and luxurious residences. | status=Guide | time=Any time of year | nominatedBy=[[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 23:18, 17 February 2025 (UTC) | comment= | DotMImage=[[File:Matsumoto_Castle05s5s4592.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Not yet''' To me, the article is lacking in actual castle listings aside from the 12 originals. It may be the way the article is structured, I'm not sure, but exemplary castles in terms of historical events, historical figures, construction or aspects of its construction, architecture, time periods, etc. should be listed with explanations. Articles like this should be pointing people with an interest in castles towards destinations that cater to that interest. Like a lot of our travel topics, it is too Wikipedia not enough travel (or voyage). To me, I think it's a good start-up article but I don't think it's a "guide status" article. Like I said, I'm not sure if it would work better with a different structuring or maybe it just needs listings within the current structure. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:22, 20 February 2025 (UTC) *: I'm not sure I agree. The article provides a ton of detailed information about Japanese castles in general (yes, Wikipedia-style, but it's appropriate here), then listings of every single original castle in Japan with succinct descriptions and why you'd want to visit. Isn't this enough? Opening hours and similar nitty-gritty belongs in the destination articles. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 23:54, 20 February 2025 (UTC) *::None of the issues I stated above suggested I was concerned about listing opening hours. I'd like the castle travel article to feature castles to travel to. The 12 originals are in the [[Japan]] article, so if that's "enough", the article is redundant. The "detailed information" is all fluff and filler without relating it to castles that can be visited. Most people with an interest in Japanese castles would already be aware of the 12 originals, so it's not a very useful article in its current state. It has a workable structure but is underdeveloped. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:11, 21 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Along the Rambla of Montevideo]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Along the Rambla of Montevideo | blurb=This 22-kilometre network of streets passes through many of Montevideo's main sights along its coastline. | status=Guide | time=Southern summer/autumn | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:31, 3 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=Recently came across this article written by {{u|Ypsilon}} and I must say I'm rather pleased with how detailed it is. Since most of it was only written a few months ago, few updates are needed (if any) and I can't see anything critical missing. | DotMImage=[[File:Rambla de Pocitos.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} per my nomination statement. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:31, 3 March 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} an interesting topic with good local color. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 12:56, 10 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', excellent article with minimal to no edits needed before featuring. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:03, 6 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Rail travel in Great Britain]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Rail travel in Great Britain | blurb=200 years ago, on 27 September 1825, the first ever passenger train ran between Stockton-on-Tees and Darlington. Since then, the rail network in Great Britain has become one of the world's densest and most well-utilised systems. | status=Guide | time=September 2025 | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:08, 21 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=As suggested by {{u|Grahamsands}} in the pub, we as Wikivoyage should do something to commemorate the 200th anniversary of rail travel and I think featuring this article is one of the best things we can do to celebrate this. | DotMImage=[[File:Dawlish - DBS 67029 going to Paignton.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' - it's been a while since our last "Rail travel in..." feature, and it would be a superb timing to run it for the 200th anniversary of rail travel overall. It's a very extensive article that's been on my radar for some time too, though I vaguely remember some British editor ([[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|TT]]?) saying there was something important missing from the article. As I can't remember what it was, and it was a couple of years ago, it's possible that the issue has been fixed. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:16, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' as initiator. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 15:25, 22 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' - I considered nominating this about a week ago - drafted a nomination and everything - but decided against it. The passenger rail system is being gradually renationalised, so there will be a lot of upcoming changes to the system and hence this article. The details of the rollout are still a little wooly, but at some point in the next three years (and possibly as early as this May, when SWR becomes the first company in England to be formally renationalised), Network Rail, National Rail and the vast majority of the train companies will be retired and replaced by "Great British Railways". So, I certainly agree the anniversary makes this a good year to feature this article, and the big changes in how the system will be run also merit highlighting. However, I'm concerned it might be more of a work in progress than a feature normally is. Is that a problem? : As for what the missing info might have been, [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]]'s guess is as good as mine, but I'll try to make my thinker work and get back to you if I remember.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 01:37, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', despite it likely needing rewriting before its feature. Possible smaller inaccuracies can always be warned for using an infobox in the most relevant section. If I can be of any help in keeping the article updated despite my lack of experience with the British network, let me know. I'm happy to help if I can. <br/> <span style="font-family:atkinson hyperlegible">― '''[[User:Wauteurz|Wauteurz]]''' <small>([[User talk:Wauteurz|talk]])</small></span> 18:37, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article is good and has been regularly updated. I don't think the renationalisation will require significant changes to the article. There are already nationalised rail companies eg LNER and Scotrail, but there was little difference in the passenger experience when they were nationalised. There will need to be small updates as companies change name etc, but don't expect big changes to fares etc. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:34, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * Thanks for the support. I'll open a thread on the RT in GB discussion, as overhaul of the content would be helpful regardless of the nomination. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 14:32, 28 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', great idea to draw attention to the 200th anniversary of rail travel. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 17:29, 2 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per others. Great feature choice and there seem to be plenty of people interested in making edits to this article to fix any issues before it is featured. === [[Tagalog phrasebook]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Tagalog phrasebook | blurb=Some Tagalog can come in handy if planning a trip to the Philippines, which isn't the most touristy part of Southeast Asia. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:2019-07-08 Tagalog swimming pool rules signs Villa Filomena resort Indang Cavite 0649.jpg|thumb]] | comment=In the beginning of the year, we have traditionally featured one of our many guide phrasebooks. How about this one for some month in early 2026? | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:05, 25 April 2025 (UTC) }} * '''Support, but''' as almost always with phrasebooks, more photos are needed before feature to make it a bit more exciting visually. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:05, 25 April 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' – looks great, except for more photos as you mention. Maybe a bit of verification from a tl speaker would also help. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:03, 25 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Expo 2025]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Osaka Expo | blurb=The Osaka World Expo 2025 is an exhibit of culture and technological advancements of 158 countries, 9 international organizations, and Japanese corporations. Come and enjoy before it ends on October 15. | status=Guide | time=The Expo ends on October 15, so this would need to be featured soon. | DotMImage=[[File:EXPO2025 null2 Appearance.jpg|thumb]] | comment= | nominatedBy=[[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:40, 8 July 2025 (UTC) }} * Because this is a current but limited time event, this is a time-sensitive nomination. These sorts of articles are rarely edited enough before the event ends to be used, but I'm wondering if this one could actually be featured. I can get explanations for the remaining pavilions. I could also probably at least get listings for buildings that hold restaurants. The pavilion that have restaurants already state that in their listings. Could this be featured or is it a waste of time to continue editing? Is it possible to add it as a 4th feature to avoid disrupting the current roster? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:40, 8 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Not yet'''. As much as I feel this expo deserves more exposure and would like to support it, there are some serious gaps in the article, which is currently at ''outline'' status while our standard is for a nominated article to be at least ''guide''. If the article can be expanded, strengthened, and gotten to guide level I would be happy to change my vote to support. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 13:51, 8 July 2025 (UTC) :: I have now completed descriptions for all of the pavilions. It is a "guide" article. Is it good enough to be featured now? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 10:29, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' – perhaps would it make sense to feature this separately as a "what's on" section and not as an FTT? Rail travel in GB was specifically chosen for the September slot because it marks the 200th anniversary of the first railway. Maybe would it make more sense to feature this in August? When does Expo 2025 start – that would influence my opinion with the timing. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:12, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Not yet''' as we have discouraged articles for one-off events. If we would find consensus that events such as this are viable as articles, with at least one prime example, we could amend [[Wikivoyage:What is an article?]] /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:56, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * [[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]], That's what I was thinking. If it could be an additional feature that didn't disrupt the current roster, it would be easier to feature. [[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]], when you say "not yet", you mean the article itself is invalid and should not exist? I didn't create it, but it's odd that this and Olympics articles are allowed to be created if they are articles that are wholly unwanted... What do you think about SHB's suggestion to feature it as its own thing so it doesn't take another places spot? Or is this something that should be taken to the Pub to get more opinions? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 15:14, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Almost''', but has it come too late? This is the best of the 4 Expo articles which we have had over the years ([[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2005]], [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2010]] and [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2015]]). Other events that often have articles are the Olympics and football. Today is close to the middle of the 6 month run of the event, so we would have to think of postponing [[Sound of Music]] or [[Gemstones]], as the September slot is taken. Having it as an extra featured article might be better. :The article needs a cropped banner and the text could be improved in places. Some questions spring to mind: When does Expo close in the evening? Is there much variation in the prices of food in different pavilions? Are there restrictions on bringing in food? Are there particular days that are quieter or busier than others? [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 23:02, 9 July 2025 (UTC) ::I have added information about bringing food and drinks. As far as quiet days, price differences, and closing times, what section do you think these should go in? I added information to "Get in", but I'm not sure these should all go there. Reservations are probably also something that should be addressed. Is a subheading in "Understand" the most logical place? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:47, 10 July 2025 (UTC) 97usb3uzrclgiqph2zjzcxxmhwx3pad 5091107 5091105 2025-07-11T00:44:26Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Forillon National Park */ archived 5091107 wikitext text/x-wiki {{shortcut|[[Dotm]]<br>[[Otbp]]<br>[[Ftt]]}} Here we determine which articles are featured on the [[Main Page]] as [[Previous Destinations of the month|Destination of the month]] (DotM), [[Previously Off the beaten path|Off the Beaten Path]] (OtBP) and [[Previous Featured travel topics|Featured travel topics]] (FTT). ==Nominate== You can nominate any '''article''' you would like to see featured. Any destination, region, itinerary or event that passes the "[[Project:What is an article?|What is an article?]]" test is eligible for nomination. However, ''before'' nominating, please check that the article follows these basic guidelines: * The nominated article should have an [[Project:article status|article status]] of '''''guide'' or ''star'''''. This includes having at least one good picture, and listings/headers/etc. that match our [[Project:manual of style|manual of style]]. * The nominated article must not have been featured since Wikivoyage became a WMF project in 2013. ** See [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], and [[Previous Featured travel topics]] to check. * If the article has been nominated previously but failed, any objections should be addressed before nominating it again. ** Check the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|slush pile]]. ** If you think a once-slushed destination is now ready to go, list it as new, but with a pointer to the slush pile entry. ** The article should preferably be nominated 3 to 12 months before the intended feature date; ready to feature as is, or with edits that can be done well before featuring. Well-known and/or popular destinations should be nominated as '''Destination of the Month''', while more obscure destinations should be nominated for '''Off the Beaten Path'''. '''Featured Travel Topic''' includes travel topics, phrasebooks, itineraries, and other articles not part of the [[Wikivoyage:Geographic hierarchy|geographic hierarchy]], as well as airports (as they are not usually destinations in their own right). Where applicable, you should propose a good time to visit the destination as a month to be featured. The basic format of a nomination is as follows: <span style=color:green><nowiki>{{FeatureNom</nowiki> <nowiki>| place=Destination</nowiki> <nowiki>| blurb='''[[Destination]]''' is a place of contrasts, and as such it...</nowiki> <nowiki>| status=Guide</nowiki> <nowiki>| time=March-June</nowiki> <nowiki>| nominatedBy=~~~~</nowiki> <nowiki>| comment=Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime.</nowiki> <nowiki>| DotMImage=[[File:Destinationimage.jpg|thumb|300px]]</nowiki> <nowiki>}}</nowiki></span> Add a nomination to the ''end'' of the appropriate section. ==Discuss== You can comment on any nomination based on timeliness and adherence to the criteria above, just add a bullet point (*) and your signed opinion. <nowiki>===[[Destination]]===</nowiki> <nowiki>Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime. TravelNut 25:25, 31 Feb 2525 (UTC)</nowiki> <span style=color:green><nowiki>* Looks nice, but shouldn't the Do section contain more than just quilting contests? ~~~~</nowiki></span> Please note that the following are '''not''' considered valid reasons to oppose a nomination: * '''"I don't like it."''' All objections have to be based on the guidelines above: poor formatting, missing information, etc. Personal opinions, dislikes, etc. do not count. * '''"Wrong time of year."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Timing can be worked out later. * '''"Wrong type of place."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Whether it's DotM or OtBP can be worked out later. ==Select== If an article gets '''three''' comments in favor and no (unresolved) comments against, it's eligible to be placed in an appropriate time-slot in the '''Upcoming''' queue. If the objections are relatively minor and are being worked on, add them to the '''Upcoming''' queue tentatively (add a question mark "?" after the article). Feel free to move the queue around or swap articles if it makes sense. If a nomination clearly does not make the grade and if the objections are not easily fixable, they go into the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|Slush pile]] ([[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile/{{CURRENTYEAR}}|current slush pile]]). Once a nomination has been scheduled, an appropriate banner image and text blurb must be selected. Go to [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners]] to start that discussion. ==Archive== Discussions for previously selected destinations are kept in the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Archive|Archive]]. ==Upcoming== ===Schedule=== The following queue should contain about the next few months' worth of upcoming destinations. Note that new DotMs are rotated in on the '''1st''' of each month, OtBPs on the '''11th''' and travel topics on the '''21st'''. {|border="1" cellspacing=0 cellpadding="3" style="text-align:center" !Month !DotM !OtBP !FTT |- ! align="right" | July 2025 | <s>[[Cuzco]] – pending stronger consensus to support</s> | <s>[[Forillon National Park]] </s> | [[Sound of Music]] – pending minor fixes |- ! align="right" | August 2025 | [[Gothenburg]] – pending minor fixes | [[Paldiski]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus | [[Gemstones]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus |- ! align="right" | September 2025 | [[Canberra/Civic]] | [[Bowling Green (Ohio)]] | [[Rail travel in Great Britain]] |- ! align="right" | October 2025 | [[Parahyangan]] – pending stronger consensus to support | [[Sekigahara]] | [[Driving in China]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support |- ! align="right" | November 2025 | [[San Carlos de Bariloche]] – pending stronger consensus to support | [[Andorra la Vella]] | [[San Diego International Airport]] - pending minor fixes and stronger consensus to support |- ! align="right" | December 2025 | [[Hong Kong/Kowloon]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support | [[Saint-Louis]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support | [[Dehydration]] - pending stronger consensus to support |} Try to avoid two overlapping or back-to-back features from the same country, as well as long streaks of features from the same continent. It is customary to wait 24 months between articles from the same or nearby cities. The schedule is not cast in stone. However, any change made to the schedule should have a compelling reason behind it, and should be effected as far in advance as possible of the article's scheduled term on the Main Page. In particular, unless absolutely necessary, we discourage nominee articles from being slushed or rescheduled after [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners|banners]] have been made for them, which usually happens 2–3 months before being featured. Whenever an article becomes a current feature, it should be removed from the list, the discussion archived, and (when changing out Featured Travel Topics) a new month added to the end of the queue. ===Next changes=== Decisions regarding which images to use as the banners are made at '''[[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners]]'''. The section below provides an opportunity to see what the upcoming featured articles will look like on the [[Main Page]] using the banners that are currently most popular on the above page. {{banner |type=dotm |direction=right |title=Gothenburg |image=GothenburgBanner1.jpg |quote=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months.}} {{banner|direction=right|title=Paldiski|type=otbp|image=PaldiskiBanner1.jpg|quote=In this Baltic Sea port you can dive into the remains of the former Soviet Union.}} <!--{banner |type=otbp |direction=left |title=Forillon National Park |image=Forillon National Park OtBP banner.jpg |quote=The final Land's End of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape is an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore. }}--> {{banner|direction=left|type=ftt|title=Sound of Music|image=SoundOfMusicBanner1.jpg|quote=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. }} ===Updating=== On the date of the scheduled change, the DotM, OtBP, or FTT should be changed as close to midnight UTC as possible. This can only be done by administrators. When the featured page is changed, please follow the following procedures to do so and archive content to the appropriate pages. At each stage, please double-check that you are correctly moving content. Several steps involves copy pasting of the file names of the Main Page banners – former, current, and next – so it can be useful to open those in tabs first. # Update the featured articles on the [[Main Page|main page]] by replacing the current 'banner' template section with those of the appropriate banner for the new DotM/OtBP/FTT found in the ''Next change'' section above. #Update the [[Main_Page/Photo_credits|Photo credits]] page with the banner's '''original image''', title and attribution. # Add the former featured article to the appropriate archive page: [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], or [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. # For the former featured article, add the appropriate parameter to the pagebanner template (directly after the image filename) to label the page as having been featured previously. #* For former DotMs, add: {{!}}dotm=yes #* For former OtBPs, add: {{!}}otbp=yes #* For former FTTs, add: {{!}}ftt=yes # Remove [[Template:Featurenomination]] from newly featured article. # Archive the newly featured article's nomination. Simply cut-and-paste the nomination section of the newly featured article from this page to [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Archive]]. # Update the '''Next change''' section above by adding the banner from [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Banners|the discussion page]]. View the table in the '''Schedule''' section above to determine what next month's change will be, then update the image and blurb in the "Next change" section with that found in the upcoming featured article's nomination. # In the schedule, use <nowiki><s> and </s></nowiki> to strikethrough the newly featured article. Remove the row from the table if the newly featured article is the FTT. #Archive the newly featured article's banner by cutting-and-pasting all banner suggestions and the associated discussion into [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners/Archive]]. ==Nominations for Destination of the Month== ===[[Gothenburg]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Gothenburg | blurb=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=I've been thinking about nominating this article for quite a while now. Some listings look rather bare-bones and a month or two before the article is featured we should check that all the listings are still in business. And my pet peeve :) – the latter half of the article could use some more photos. | DotMImage=[[File:Gothenburg Central Station (Göteborgs Centralstation) 15393945292.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} <s>* '''Almost''' per nomination. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC)</s> ::'''Support''' now after said fixes. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:41, 24 June 2025 (UTC) * '''Almost''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:50, 2 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Almost''' per others. I think this article looks excellent on the whole. I think the "public baths" section needs a rethink, and certainly needs more detail, but otherwise, I think this one can be made feature-ready in a few months. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:23, 7 January 2025 (UTC) : '''Put on hold?''' Provided that [[Cochabamba]] and [[San Carlos de Bariloche]] have sufficient support votes, and a couple of Nordic destinations are scheduled soon; shall we save Gothenburg for 2026? /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 01:08, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::No. As long as it is a requirement to run articles during months when the weather is suitable, we should not on one hand burn the precious summer slots on articles that can be ran other times of the year, and on the other hand burn the precious articles that can be run also during the winter or shoulder seasons during the summer months. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:28, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::Cochabamba and San Carlos de Bariloche are both in the southern hemisphere, so "summer" is actually December-February. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:23, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::::Well, I meant the months from May-September, the summer months in Canada, the US and (the northern half of) Europe from where maybe 3/4 of our current not yet featured articles are from. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 21:39, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::::Right! I knew what you meant, which is why those two mentioned destinations aren't in competition for the "summer" slots since it will be winter down under. By the way, skiing is popular in my family, so we LIKE places that have snowy, icy winter weather! [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 22:30, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::Yes, so some high-latitude destinations can be featured in local winter, but most temperate and arctic cities are more pleasant in summer – especially those that don't have snowy, icy winter weather in winter, but just darkness (with light pollution destroying even that experience) and slush. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:59, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::I think for Gothenberg it's still more appropriate to feature during the summer. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:04, 1 March 2025 (UTC) ::::::::Yes. Its at the coast and much south from Turku, and while we can experience some beautiful winter weather here, it isn't at all guaranteed for somebody staying for a few weeks or less. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:19, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::::Agreed – it also doesn't help that in much of the Southern Hemisphere those months are also dry season. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:32, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::::: Gothenburg has enough indoor destinations to be meaningful as an off-season destination; it is however best at summer. In any case, the article still has zero support votes, and some issues remain. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:20, 5 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::The issues, resulting in the article not having support votes are is basically the fact that the listings need to be checked for up-to-dateness. This is something which could of course have been done last October when nominating the article, but it's much better to do it closer to the time the article is featured. Especially in the case that someone decides to postpone the featuring of the article time of feature. :::::::Recently Recife was featured, and I checked the listings for the THIRD time over the last couple of years. When doing that I was seriously wondering if the time spent on the featured articles and indeed having featured articles could be better used in developing other articles and other aspects of the site as a whole. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:39, 9 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::It may have zero "support" votes, but in this case we should treat "almost" like a support vote because the main thing that needs to happen before featuring is a quick update. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:40, 9 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Canberra/Civic]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Civic | blurb=The central district of Australia's capital [[Canberra]] is compact but punches well above its weight for eating and shopping, becoming particularly active for Canberra's tulip festival, Floriade. | status=Guide | time=September for Floriade (tulip season) | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:47, 1 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=It has been a guide article since 2022 and most listings are no older than 3 years. Thought it would be a good time to feature this for Canberra's annual tulip festival, Floriade, which happens in nearby [[Canberra/North Canberra|Commonwealth Park]] but the CBD area does become active around that time. | DotMImage=[[File:Autumn in Canberra (01).jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:47, 1 January 2025 (UTC) * The article is fine but Civic is just really... boring? I was trying to come up with a catchy blurb but the above is as good as I could get. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 00:23, 2 January 2025 (UTC) *:Honestly, yeah – it gets quite a bit of talk in the planning sphere and circles but other than that, there's nothing particularly exciting about Civic urban planning aspects aside. But thanks for the better blurb – I too kinda struggled to come up with a good blurb. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:56, 2 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - No gaping holes in the article, all listings have coordinates and overall the article looks good. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. I think this article is close to star status, and is definitely good enough to be featured. I commented further at [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations#Canberra/Civic]]. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:55, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Cochabamba]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Cochabamba | blurb=The fourth-largest city in [[Bolivia]], Cochabamba is known as the "Garden City" for its mild climate year-round, cathedral squares, and shops and restaurants. | status=Guide | time=any (however Dec-Feb/Mar [[:w:Cochabamba#Climate|are apparently quite wet]]) | nominatedBy=<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=I've done significant work on this article today to get it up to guide status. I think there are some good restaurants and hotels missing from this list that I might get to, but the article is already in good shape following the addition of coordinates and the removal of closed businesses. Although a check shows we have featured cities in Bolivia before (as recently as last February), South America seems to be underrepresented overall, so this nomination should help with geographic diversity. | DotMImage=[[File:Cochabamba-Plaza.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} per nom – great work on the updates! --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:32, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:Thanks! I've done some more work on the article since. It's great to see the quality of our coverage of Bolivia, with two of the capitals ([[La Paz]] and [[Sucre]]) already having been featured and [[Santa Cruz de la Sierra]] not far from guide status. Many of the smaller towns are also within striking distance of guide status. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 01:59, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *::ikr – it's such an amazing achievement for a country that doesn't get in the spotlight much. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:25, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - solid article with recent updates by SelfieCity. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:51, 25 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Very close''', it's a nice article but the Understand section could be a little bit longer with a couple of paragraphs about the city's history and climate for example. This would also help keeping that map within the Understand section. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:17, 18 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[San Carlos de Bariloche]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=San Carlos de Bariloche | blurb=The Argentine adventure capital offers great opportunities for skiing, sightseeing, water sports, trekking and climbing amidst the amazing mountainous landscapes of Argentine Patagonia. | status=Guide | time=southern spring | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:27, 14 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=Interestingly, we've never had a DotM from Argentina excluding Iguaçu Falls (but 2 from Uruguay and 2 from Chile) and I figured this would be a good one to start with. It might need another checkup closer to featuring and I am in the process of updating many of the listings + adding coordinates, but otherwise I cannot see why we can't feature this. | DotMImage=[[File:View from the Golf course at Llao Llao.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:27, 14 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' pending some small fixes. Some listings need work (descriptions and coordinates) but nothing major that would prevent this one from being featured. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:58, 14 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} looks complete and up-to-date.[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:19, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Parahyangan]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Parahyangan | blurb=The West Javanese region centred around Java's third largest city of Bandung is an excellent place to hike and admire active volcanoes. | status=Guide | time=May–Oct (dry season + good weather for hiking) | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:24, 6 February 2025 (UTC) | comment=It's not often that we feature region articles, but this one has all articles breadcrumbed beneath it as usable or guide, and this will be our first region feature from Java. Since most of our DotMs are filled up for 2025, this might need to wait until 2026, which I have no issue with (I know [[Medan]] was featured only last month as DotM in January, but I don't think that should pose an issue with scheduling as that's on a completely different island). | DotMImage=[[File:Kawah Putih from the bottom, Bandung Regency, 2014-08-21.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} as per nom statement. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:24, 6 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' could use a "Sleep" section with summary info, pointers to which breadcrumbed destinations have best/most listings, and maybe some mentions of particularly interesting places to stay. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:37, 14 February 2025 (UTC) *:Sleep sections are not standard for region articles, though. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:25, 15 February 2025 (UTC) *::Certainly sleep listings are not standard, but a summary or pointers to outstanding/unique lodgings in the region are traveler-centric and *should* be included in any guide-level region article. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:53, 25 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Hong Kong/Kowloon]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Kowloon | blurb=One of the most densely populated cities on Earth, Hong Kong's mainland portion offers a culture less influenced by the British than the neighboring Island, plus accommodation, dining, and nightlife at a comparative bargain. (blurb from its former nomination) | status=Guide | time=Oct-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:41, 21 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Here's another good Northern Hemisphere winter feature. Slushed in 2016, but the reason was that nearby Macau was to be featured then. The article is extensive and tidy, but as usual the listings need to be checked, updated and coordinates added where needed. | DotMImage=[[File:Kowloon Waterfront, Hong Kong, 2013-08-09, DD 03.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' - ie. updates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:41, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work''' - quite a few outdated listings and many without coordinates. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 19:09, 15 May 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work''' as per the comment. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:49, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[Nairobi]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Nairobi | blurb=There's much to experience in the Kenyan capital - from cultural sites and the contrasting high-rises to parks and wildlife. | status=Guide | time=Jan-Feb, Jun-Sep are the drier months | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:07, 18 June 2025 (UTC) | comment=I just promoted this to guide, as it's a really extensive article and could be a nice feature for e.g. early 2026 (to give us one more African feature in addition to Saint-Louis which could be December's OtBP). As usual, some of the information might have gone out of date since it was added, but given that [https://wikimania.wikimedia.org/wiki/2025:Wikimania Wikimania will take place there in August], there's a good chance that the article will get some fresh content already then, especially if Wikivoyage gets some visibility during the event. | DotMImage=[[File:A lone giraffe in Nairobi National Park.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' as usual. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:07, 18 June 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work.''' As mentioned before, the DoTM category has had very few African destinations; most of them have been in OtBP and FTT. Nairobi is one of the continent's most cosmopolitan cities, and deserves to be featured. However, we should not sacrifice quality for diversity. More venues should have coordinates. The [[safari]] destinations within reach from the city could possibly be grouped together, with some general information. General information on price levels and nightlife would be appreciated. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 12:26, 24 June 2025 (UTC) ==Nominations for Off the Beaten Path== ===[[Sekigahara]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sekigahara | blurb= This quaint mountain town and battlefield, where Tokugawa won control of Japan, gives visitors firsthand insight into feudal Japanese warfare. | status=Guide | time=March-May; October | nominatedBy=[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 11:34, 2 May 2024 (UTC) | comment= This town would be perfect for OTBP, given its importance in Japanese history and its well-developed tourist services. It is a small town with very few dining options and lodging (which might be an issue but might not depending on consensus), but it is close to larger Japanese cities like Maibara and Nagoya and would be a perfect day trip from Kyoto et al., especially since it is on a major train line. It is especially beautiful in the spring when the plum and cherry blossoms bloom, but the Battle of Sekigahara was in October of 1600, so it would also work for an October listing. | DotMImage=[[File:Sekigahara Museum and Watertower.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} Can't see anything that would prevent this from being an OtBP. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 12:07, 2 May 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} Article looks good & the site is important. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:00, 2 May 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} The article is good. Having visited once, I can attest that the historical sites are ''really'' not geared for English-speaking visitors, but the article doesn't pretend otherwise and it's fine for a mildly interesting day trip. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 06:01, 3 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Well, if there are few places to eat and drink and sleep, we can't list any more than there actually is :). I think we should run the Sekigahara in October for the re-enactment of the battle as we will probably already have one Japanese feature sometime next spring ([[Public baths in Japan]] as FTT). --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 08:50, 10 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Not Yet''' With zero "Eat" or "Buy" listings, this article has not earned guide status. We should not be saying things like "some decent restaurants and cafes opened both in the battlefield and around the station". Instead, those restaurants and cafes should be given listings. Sekigahara's website shows that the city has numerous restaurants. Similarly "souvenir shops around town" should be given listings. Other encampments should also be given listings. They will not overwhelm the article and they provide deeper understanding of the battle, especially in an article that says you won't understand if you don't speak Japanese. The article also doesn't list much outside of the battlefield. No War Land? No cave? No mention of the Nakasendo post town (Sekigahara-juku)? How about the opportunity to don samurai outfits? I have been to Sekigahara numerous times. It wasn't really on my radar to edit, but maybe I can try adding things here and there to get it up to standard. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:59, 30 June 2024 (UTC) ::Better to run it in the spring, then, if there's content that needs to be added to the article. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:51, 11 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article now has listings for the sites mentioned in [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]]'s comment, including for restaurants. The article is still at Usable status but can be upgraded to Guide before being featured. --[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 08:12, 10 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. The article has been significantly upgraded and looks like it is in great shape now. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:29, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' Major concerns were addressed, but I think do think October is the most appropriate time to feature it to coincide with the battle. Sekigahara is still pretty cold in March. What is the reason for specifying March-May as the feature months? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:39, 8 January 2025 (UTC) *:I don't see why we can't wait until October – what should replace Sekigahara in March then? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:51, 8 January 2025 (UTC) *:I only suggested March-May because I had visited in March 2023 and it was pleasant and warm, and because the cherry blossoms were starting to bloom. It's fine by me if Sekigahara is rescheduled to October; it's also fine if it's left as-is. [[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 09:41, 14 January 2025 (UTC) *::I've removed it from March, left it as a vacant spot for now. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:43, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - sounds like a cool place. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:55, 19 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Paldiski]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Paldiski | blurb=In this Baltic Sea port you can dive into the remains of the former Soviet Union. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:54, 15 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=Our first feature from the Baltic States in another category than DotM. The article is a translation of a ru-WV Star article by me. The article can possibly be expanded a little, but fact remains that you won't find too many places to eat and drink here (or at least was the case back in 2019 when I visited). | DotMImage=[[File:Sadama street Paldiski Estonia.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' however listings need to be checked preferably a month or so before featuring per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:54, 15 November 2024 (UTC) :*It looks like it could use some copy editing before it's featured. I [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Paldiski&diff=4970208&oldid=4970184 did some]. It will be a viable feature article once this is taken care of, though. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:01, 15 November 2024 (UTC) *'''Close''' per Ikan. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:28, 8 December 2024 (UTC) * '''Needs work'''. The first half of this article is excellent. However, some of the sections such as "Sleep" are seriously lacking. The only hotel listing with information is noted for having bad ratings. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:35, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' - Seems too lightweight to be a "guide". 3 restaurants and 2 hotels seems more inline with "usable" status. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:30, 27 February 2025 (UTC) : Well, as noted in the nomination comment I wouldn't expect there to be much more to add. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:36, 13 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Bowling Green (Ohio)]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Bowling Green, Ohio | blurb="Bee Gee" is centered around its State University with a range of student events and lively pubs during semesters, and a Midwestern small town feel around the year. | status=Guide | time=September 2025 when the college semester has begun? Otherwise Spring or Fall probably | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=A few years ago [[User:Mbrickn|Mbrickn]] improved many articles from Ohio, for instance this one. This is a clean and extensive article that could pretty much be featured today. Mbrickn hasn't been active here as of lately but their great work surely deserves a month on the Main Page, especially as we've apparently never featured anything from Ohio. | DotMImage=[[File:Bowling Green Ohio Main Street.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 20:43, 15 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} Listings may need an update closer to featuring, but other than that, there aren't any glaring issues. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:39, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' Sorry for the late return - I would be happy to review and update if this helps. --[[User:Mbrickn|Mbrickn]] ([[User talk:Mbrickn|talk]]) 19:43, 28 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Andorra la Vella]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Andorra la Vella | blurb='''[[Andorra la Vella]]''' is the capital of a quirky co-principality lodged in the mountains between Spain and France that offers great skiing, hiking, and lots of duty-free shopping. | status=Guide | time=A year-round destination. | nominatedBy=[[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 09:39, 2 February 2025 (UTC) | comment=Andorra is a place that isn't that easy to get to as it hasn't an airport, but it isn't impossible, and it will definitely attract attention from readers interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations. And it would be the first feature for Andorra. | DotMImage=[[File:Andorra la Vella - footpath.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as per my comments on [[Talk:Andorra la Vella]] – it may need some last-minute updates closer to featuring, but that's about it I think (also keeping in mind that despite Andorra la Vella giving the illusion of a capital city, it's still only a small town). --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:07, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per above. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 18:14, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - I've noticed [[User:Ground Zero|your]] great work on the article, hope you're having a great time there, and it's also nice to see a feature from a country we've (unsurprisingly) not had any features from previously. Maybe it'd be suitable as a skiing destination next winter? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:42, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:40, 19 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Happy to have updated this page when I visited in 2018 and see this being featured. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 14:30, 24 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Saint-Louis]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Saint-Louis | blurb=Once the colonial capital of French West Africa, Saint-Louis boasts a world heritage listed old town and lively markets and is a gateway to the Langue de Barbarie National Park | status=Guide | time=Nov-May is the dry season, according to [[:w:Saint-Louis, Senegal|Wikipedia]] | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:05, 21 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=Time to think about some article's for the end of the year. Here's another one of our relatively few African guide articles that we haven't featured yet. I sorted out this article, deleted dead businesses and added coordinates a while ago... but looking at the article history that was apparently back in 2020! So even if it has a lot of content it needs an update again, closer to the time it is featured. | DotMImage=[[File:Saintlouis pont Faidherbe.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Pending update''' per comment, otherwise good to go. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:05, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support, with one question'''. First up, thanks for the updates! It's looking real nice now that it's been updated now. But I do wonder if this is better suited as a DotM? It's reasonably well-known especially as a former colonial capital. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:37, 21 March 2025 (UTC) :: Well, it was five years ago I polished up a couple of articles from parts of the world we don't cover that well, so the listings need to be checked again. It seems Saint-Louis is a place that could work as both as an DotM or an OtBP. On one hand it's one of Senegal's top destinations and as such you will meet other visitors also, but it takes a little effort to get there and Senegal is only 107th in the World tourism rankings (13th in Africa), so I put it in OtBP (and nominated it now because we have fewer candidates in this section), but it can be moved to DotM. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:03, 21 March 2025 (UTC) :::Yeah, you definitely are right that it works both as a DotM and an OtBP. I think I have a slight preference towards DotM because this and [[Dakar]] are likely the only Senegalese destinations that we could ever feature as a DotM. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:11, 21 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[El Cuyo]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=El Cuyo | blurb=Virtually unknown to foreign travelers only a few years ago, El Cuyo beckons to visitors looking for a quiet, natural seaside town to bask in the sun undisturbed by revelers while other visitors seek adrenaline-pumping excitement as they take advantage of the kind of steady sea breezes that make it an ideal kitesurfing destination. It's secluded and just enough of a pain to get to to keep crowds away, but close enough to Cancun that you can get there cheaply and easily within a few hours. | status=Guide | time=Nov-May is the dry season, which is also sunny and warm while much of the northern hemisphere freezes | nominatedBy=[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:57, 7 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Not many Mexican destinations have been featured. Here's one that's very new with nothing outdated. All sections have appropriate content and it should be ready to go whenever a suitable time for it comes up. | DotMImage=[[File:El Cuyo, Yucatan, Mexico Dec 2021 - Boats.jpg|thumb|El Cuyo, Yucatan]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. It might need a bit of cleanup and expansion, but otherwise good to go. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:57, 7 April 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} this is nearly perfect. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:23, 7 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - looks good! (The standard Ypsilon complaint: a couple of photos in the latter half would be nice to have). I was recently thinking about nominating one of the many Mexican guide articles you've been working on, but wasn't sure which to choose. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:08, 11 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Ko Kret]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Ko Kret | blurb=Experience the culture of the Mon people, including their pottery and cuisine, on this island just outside Bangkok | status=Guide | time=Nov-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:42, 21 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Time to think about early 2026's OtBP articles, how about taking our readers to a small river island in Thailand? As usual we have to check if everything listed is still in business and if prices and such details are about right. The lack of coordinates in some listings mean that they may have been added over ten years ago. | DotMImage=[[File:Village1 House.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' - ie. updates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:42, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Close''', pending significant updates + coordinates. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:01, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ==Nominations for Featured travel topic== ===[[San Diego International Airport]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=San Diego International Airport | blurb=The main airport to America's finest city is the busiest single runway airport in the world, | status=Guide | time=Year round, not only because there are people who change planes in the San Diego International Airport, but also because San Diego itself is a good place to visit any time of the year. | nominatedBy=[[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 04:28, 20 August 2024 (UTC)Someonehere12345 | comment=Last time an article from an airport in the United States was featured travel topic, it was November 2019 Atlanta. (please note I do not have a banner in mind, but if anyone does then feel free to bring it up in the destination of the month candidates/banners page. | DotMImage=[[File:San Diego International Airport Oct 7, 2019.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator--[[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 04:32, 20 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' - nicely complete article that's up-to-date. Great airport too, very convenient to the downtown area. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 16:43, 30 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Very very close''' - would be nice to have a few more pictures here and there. Otherwise it's apparently up to date and good to go. As YVR is going on the Main Page next spring, this will probably have to sit around here on the nominations page for a while as we don't want to run similar articles (in this case airport articles) too close to each other in the schedule... --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:58, 20 September 2024 (UTC) *:I just added a few more images [[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 22:45, 23 September 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:02, 4 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Very close'''. "Sleep" would benefit from more detail in the listings. I also think that th Eat and Drink sections should be separated. However, this one looks close to feature-able status. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:37, 7 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Gemstones]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Gemstones | blurb=Many travellers buy gems or jewellery during their journeys. | status=Guide | time=any | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 20:38, 3 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=There are both some fine bargains to be had and some incredibly bad "tourist trap" deals. | DotMImage=[[File:Jade FiveRats.jpg|thumb|Chinese jade pendant|300px]] }} *<s>'''Needs work'''</s> – in particular, the [[Gemstones#Museums|&sect; Museums]] section which is lacking many details and coordinates. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:01, 4 October 2024 (UTC) *: The museums now have coordinates (they already had links to the listings, from where I got the coords), and the collections and gems have wikidata links (except the Three Treasures, which don't seem to have an article in Wikipedia in English). They have descriptions; what more details would be needed? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:12, 4 October 2024 (UTC) *::{{s}} upon further improvements. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:36, 1 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close''' The other parts of the article look good, but surely there must be more than four gemstone museums in the world worth visiting? I would also believe that some mines have visitor centers and/or can be visited as such. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:56, 1 November 2024 (UTC) :: I did a web search & added some I found. :: No doubt more could be done. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 18:04, 1 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close'''. There are still some coordinates and listing details missing, which should be present to feature this article. But I think it is possible to get this feature-ready. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:40, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:I've scheduled this for August –&nbsp;I think that's plenty of time to fix any issues with this article. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:39, 21 January 2025 (UTC) : There are unanswered questions on the talk page about [[Gemstones#Stones]] :: How should this section be organised? Alphabetised? Split up into sections for for precious & semi-precious? :: Some stones get their own headings & subsections, starting at [[Gemstones#Rubies_and_sapphires]]. All the others just have listings. Do we have the mix right? Should other precious stones -- diamond & emerald -- have their own subsections? Perhaps a subsection for quartz minerals since at least a half dozen of those can be used as gems? : I think these should be answered before we feature the article. Suggestions? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 05:48, 6 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Sound of Music]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sound of Music | blurb=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. | status=Guide | time=Spring or summer. 2025 is the film's 60th anniversary. Not sure whether there are public events dedicated to the film. | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 23:32, 3 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=We have had surprisingly few features from [[Austria]]. Previous versions of the country's article (and its blurb in [[Central Europe]]) have criticized the film's stereotypic depictions of the country. This article was recently expanded to give background on the real Trapp family, the German film about them, and the inaccuracies and controversies of ''Sound of Music''. Some more information about how to find and visit the venues might be useful. | DotMImage=[[File:Schloss Leopoldskron Salzburg.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Comment'''. I don't think the musical had anything to do with Hollywood, so the blurb needs tweaking. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:32, 7 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Very very close''' - as discussed on the talk page, a couple of more photos would be nice. Moreover, some of the listings in the end of the article have quite short descriptions. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:14, 7 November 2024 (UTC) *'''Support'''. I watched this film many times as a child,and have much enjoyed doing my share of work on this article to complete it and address all the issues listings-wise, and at this moment it has attained a good shape. It must be mentioned that the term "Hollywood version" is very much used throughout the article, synonymous with "American version", to disambiguate from the 1956 "German version". This metonym is not very accurate, as 20th Century Studios are in [[Century City]] and not Hollywood, but I don't see it as an issue that could prevent the article of making FTT. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 10:54, 20 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:41, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} per Ibaman. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:33, 3 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Driving in China]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Driving in China | blurb=China isn't one of the countries that foreigners commonly explore by driving themselves. If you'd still like to, the first step would be getting a local driving license. | status=Guide | time=Any, though maybe not in mid-winter | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:50, 21 January 2025 (UTC) | comment="Driving in..." articles have been a rare sight on the Main Page in the last couple of years as you can see in [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. Here's an interesting one. The article looks really extensive, but the content and headings perhaps need to be rearranged. On the other hand I don't remember if we have any standard order for the information in driving articles. | DotMImage=[[File:PeopleSquareTraffic.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' per comment. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:50, 21 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:15, 21 January 2025 (UTC) *Definitely needs more copy editing. I edited the lede and part of "Understand," and there was a lot of redundancy and some lack of articles and such. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:05, 31 March 2025 (UTC) === [[Dehydration]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Dehydration | blurb=A condition that may affect travellers in many places and for many reasons. Never pleasant, sometimes fatal. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:Coach Ken, Hydrate or die 120521-F-WX664-210.jpg|thumb]] | comment=The most common causes are severe [[diarrhea]], sweating a lot in [[hot weather]] or during strenuous activity such as a [[marathon race]], and water evaporating more quickly at lower air pressure, which is a factor in [[altitude sickness]]. Dehydration is also a factor in [[hangover]]s. This article can be relevant for a fairly broad range of travellers. | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 22:15, 14 February 2025 (UTC) }} *{{s}} I mentioned before that it is short, but I really don't think much else needs to be added without it duplicating other articles such as [[hot weather]] or [[arid region safety]]. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:30, 14 February 2025 (UTC) : '''Comment:''' This article is most relevant internationally during northern summer (June to August); however, this period tends to be highly requested for featured articles. This article is short, though it covers the necessities of the topic. As long as we have no formal rules for the minimum length of a featured article or a guide-level article, this is not an issue. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 00:30, 21 February 2025 (UTC) :: The only thing I know of that it might be missing is anything about dairy products; see [[Talk:Dehydration#Questions]]. I'm not sure what could be said about those. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 04:15, 21 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''': although also mentioned at [[Hot weather]], I believe this article should contain a discussion regarding heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke in particular has some different instructions from typical dehydration that should receive a mention: "Cool their body with cool (not ice cold, but if ice is all you have then make sure it doesn't make direct contact with the patient's skin) water and fan them. Do not force an unconscious person to drink anything." (from [[Hot weather#Heat stroke]]). <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 00:59, 26 February 2025 (UTC) :: I added a one-liner: ::: All of the conditions mentioned above can also involve problems other than dehydration; see the linked articles for details. :: Is that enough? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:56, 12 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''': Although we don't use references, I think it is helpful if an medical travel topic has links to reliable sources, either in the article or on the talk page. In particular, I would like to know why we are recommending 8g of salt per litre of water. The [https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-FCH-CAH-06.1 WHO] suggest 2.6g of salt in one publication, and changed their formula in 2003, but I expect that there are many other different recommendations. [[:Wikipedia:Management of dehydration]] has advice on pausing briefly during vomiting. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 13:51, 13 April 2025 (UTC) :: The current recipe with 8g is text that I moved here, unaltered, from the diarrhea article. Apparently it needs improvement. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 13:03, 18 April 2025 (UTC) :: {{ping|Doc James}} [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 20:06, 29 April 2025 (UTC) :::Agree the recommended sodium was too high and I have dropped it in half with a reference to the Alberta Health Services. Also added details and a picture of a water filter [[User:Doc James|<span style="color:#0000f1">'''Travel Doc James'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Doc_James|talk]] · [[Special:Contributions/Doc_James|contribs]] · [[Special:EmailUser/Doc_James|email]]) 14:12, 1 May 2025 (UTC) ::::Thanks, the new recipe is more what I was expecting and I like the linked article giving several variations. I now '''support''' featuring this. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:45, 2 May 2025 (UTC) === [[Carpets]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Carpets | blurb=A popular souvenir and a reason for some museum visits. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:Russian_Bouchara.jpg|thumb]] | comment=Mainly but not only for travellers in Asia. | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 17:01, 17 February 2025 (UTC) }} * '''Support''' - looks quite extensive. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:12, 25 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Japanese castles]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Japanese castles | blurb='''[[Japanese castles]]''' are a striking combination of form and function, which served simultaneously as defensive bases, symbols of might and luxurious residences. | status=Guide | time=Any time of year | nominatedBy=[[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 23:18, 17 February 2025 (UTC) | comment= | DotMImage=[[File:Matsumoto_Castle05s5s4592.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Not yet''' To me, the article is lacking in actual castle listings aside from the 12 originals. It may be the way the article is structured, I'm not sure, but exemplary castles in terms of historical events, historical figures, construction or aspects of its construction, architecture, time periods, etc. should be listed with explanations. Articles like this should be pointing people with an interest in castles towards destinations that cater to that interest. Like a lot of our travel topics, it is too Wikipedia not enough travel (or voyage). To me, I think it's a good start-up article but I don't think it's a "guide status" article. Like I said, I'm not sure if it would work better with a different structuring or maybe it just needs listings within the current structure. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:22, 20 February 2025 (UTC) *: I'm not sure I agree. The article provides a ton of detailed information about Japanese castles in general (yes, Wikipedia-style, but it's appropriate here), then listings of every single original castle in Japan with succinct descriptions and why you'd want to visit. Isn't this enough? Opening hours and similar nitty-gritty belongs in the destination articles. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 23:54, 20 February 2025 (UTC) *::None of the issues I stated above suggested I was concerned about listing opening hours. I'd like the castle travel article to feature castles to travel to. The 12 originals are in the [[Japan]] article, so if that's "enough", the article is redundant. The "detailed information" is all fluff and filler without relating it to castles that can be visited. Most people with an interest in Japanese castles would already be aware of the 12 originals, so it's not a very useful article in its current state. It has a workable structure but is underdeveloped. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:11, 21 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Along the Rambla of Montevideo]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Along the Rambla of Montevideo | blurb=This 22-kilometre network of streets passes through many of Montevideo's main sights along its coastline. | status=Guide | time=Southern summer/autumn | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:31, 3 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=Recently came across this article written by {{u|Ypsilon}} and I must say I'm rather pleased with how detailed it is. Since most of it was only written a few months ago, few updates are needed (if any) and I can't see anything critical missing. | DotMImage=[[File:Rambla de Pocitos.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} per my nomination statement. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:31, 3 March 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} an interesting topic with good local color. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 12:56, 10 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', excellent article with minimal to no edits needed before featuring. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:03, 6 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Rail travel in Great Britain]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Rail travel in Great Britain | blurb=200 years ago, on 27 September 1825, the first ever passenger train ran between Stockton-on-Tees and Darlington. Since then, the rail network in Great Britain has become one of the world's densest and most well-utilised systems. | status=Guide | time=September 2025 | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:08, 21 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=As suggested by {{u|Grahamsands}} in the pub, we as Wikivoyage should do something to commemorate the 200th anniversary of rail travel and I think featuring this article is one of the best things we can do to celebrate this. | DotMImage=[[File:Dawlish - DBS 67029 going to Paignton.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' - it's been a while since our last "Rail travel in..." feature, and it would be a superb timing to run it for the 200th anniversary of rail travel overall. It's a very extensive article that's been on my radar for some time too, though I vaguely remember some British editor ([[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|TT]]?) saying there was something important missing from the article. As I can't remember what it was, and it was a couple of years ago, it's possible that the issue has been fixed. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:16, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' as initiator. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 15:25, 22 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' - I considered nominating this about a week ago - drafted a nomination and everything - but decided against it. The passenger rail system is being gradually renationalised, so there will be a lot of upcoming changes to the system and hence this article. The details of the rollout are still a little wooly, but at some point in the next three years (and possibly as early as this May, when SWR becomes the first company in England to be formally renationalised), Network Rail, National Rail and the vast majority of the train companies will be retired and replaced by "Great British Railways". So, I certainly agree the anniversary makes this a good year to feature this article, and the big changes in how the system will be run also merit highlighting. However, I'm concerned it might be more of a work in progress than a feature normally is. Is that a problem? : As for what the missing info might have been, [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]]'s guess is as good as mine, but I'll try to make my thinker work and get back to you if I remember.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 01:37, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', despite it likely needing rewriting before its feature. Possible smaller inaccuracies can always be warned for using an infobox in the most relevant section. If I can be of any help in keeping the article updated despite my lack of experience with the British network, let me know. I'm happy to help if I can. <br/> <span style="font-family:atkinson hyperlegible">― '''[[User:Wauteurz|Wauteurz]]''' <small>([[User talk:Wauteurz|talk]])</small></span> 18:37, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article is good and has been regularly updated. I don't think the renationalisation will require significant changes to the article. There are already nationalised rail companies eg LNER and Scotrail, but there was little difference in the passenger experience when they were nationalised. There will need to be small updates as companies change name etc, but don't expect big changes to fares etc. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:34, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * Thanks for the support. I'll open a thread on the RT in GB discussion, as overhaul of the content would be helpful regardless of the nomination. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 14:32, 28 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', great idea to draw attention to the 200th anniversary of rail travel. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 17:29, 2 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per others. Great feature choice and there seem to be plenty of people interested in making edits to this article to fix any issues before it is featured. === [[Tagalog phrasebook]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Tagalog phrasebook | blurb=Some Tagalog can come in handy if planning a trip to the Philippines, which isn't the most touristy part of Southeast Asia. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:2019-07-08 Tagalog swimming pool rules signs Villa Filomena resort Indang Cavite 0649.jpg|thumb]] | comment=In the beginning of the year, we have traditionally featured one of our many guide phrasebooks. How about this one for some month in early 2026? | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:05, 25 April 2025 (UTC) }} * '''Support, but''' as almost always with phrasebooks, more photos are needed before feature to make it a bit more exciting visually. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:05, 25 April 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' – looks great, except for more photos as you mention. Maybe a bit of verification from a tl speaker would also help. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:03, 25 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Expo 2025]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Osaka Expo | blurb=The Osaka World Expo 2025 is an exhibit of culture and technological advancements of 158 countries, 9 international organizations, and Japanese corporations. Come and enjoy before it ends on October 15. | status=Guide | time=The Expo ends on October 15, so this would need to be featured soon. | DotMImage=[[File:EXPO2025 null2 Appearance.jpg|thumb]] | comment= | nominatedBy=[[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:40, 8 July 2025 (UTC) }} * Because this is a current but limited time event, this is a time-sensitive nomination. These sorts of articles are rarely edited enough before the event ends to be used, but I'm wondering if this one could actually be featured. I can get explanations for the remaining pavilions. I could also probably at least get listings for buildings that hold restaurants. The pavilion that have restaurants already state that in their listings. Could this be featured or is it a waste of time to continue editing? Is it possible to add it as a 4th feature to avoid disrupting the current roster? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:40, 8 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Not yet'''. As much as I feel this expo deserves more exposure and would like to support it, there are some serious gaps in the article, which is currently at ''outline'' status while our standard is for a nominated article to be at least ''guide''. If the article can be expanded, strengthened, and gotten to guide level I would be happy to change my vote to support. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 13:51, 8 July 2025 (UTC) :: I have now completed descriptions for all of the pavilions. It is a "guide" article. Is it good enough to be featured now? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 10:29, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' – perhaps would it make sense to feature this separately as a "what's on" section and not as an FTT? Rail travel in GB was specifically chosen for the September slot because it marks the 200th anniversary of the first railway. Maybe would it make more sense to feature this in August? When does Expo 2025 start – that would influence my opinion with the timing. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:12, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Not yet''' as we have discouraged articles for one-off events. If we would find consensus that events such as this are viable as articles, with at least one prime example, we could amend [[Wikivoyage:What is an article?]] /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:56, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * [[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]], That's what I was thinking. If it could be an additional feature that didn't disrupt the current roster, it would be easier to feature. [[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]], when you say "not yet", you mean the article itself is invalid and should not exist? I didn't create it, but it's odd that this and Olympics articles are allowed to be created if they are articles that are wholly unwanted... What do you think about SHB's suggestion to feature it as its own thing so it doesn't take another places spot? Or is this something that should be taken to the Pub to get more opinions? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 15:14, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Almost''', but has it come too late? This is the best of the 4 Expo articles which we have had over the years ([[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2005]], [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2010]] and [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2015]]). Other events that often have articles are the Olympics and football. Today is close to the middle of the 6 month run of the event, so we would have to think of postponing [[Sound of Music]] or [[Gemstones]], as the September slot is taken. Having it as an extra featured article might be better. :The article needs a cropped banner and the text could be improved in places. Some questions spring to mind: When does Expo close in the evening? Is there much variation in the prices of food in different pavilions? Are there restrictions on bringing in food? Are there particular days that are quieter or busier than others? [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 23:02, 9 July 2025 (UTC) ::I have added information about bringing food and drinks. As far as quiet days, price differences, and closing times, what section do you think these should go in? I added information to "Get in", but I'm not sure these should all go there. Reservations are probably also something that should be addressed. Is a subheading in "Understand" the most logical place? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:47, 10 July 2025 (UTC) kpr93t4vrt1kdhvu1ipinpn77yb64sm 5091109 5091107 2025-07-11T00:49:49Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Next changes */ 5091109 wikitext text/x-wiki {{shortcut|[[Dotm]]<br>[[Otbp]]<br>[[Ftt]]}} Here we determine which articles are featured on the [[Main Page]] as [[Previous Destinations of the month|Destination of the month]] (DotM), [[Previously Off the beaten path|Off the Beaten Path]] (OtBP) and [[Previous Featured travel topics|Featured travel topics]] (FTT). ==Nominate== You can nominate any '''article''' you would like to see featured. Any destination, region, itinerary or event that passes the "[[Project:What is an article?|What is an article?]]" test is eligible for nomination. However, ''before'' nominating, please check that the article follows these basic guidelines: * The nominated article should have an [[Project:article status|article status]] of '''''guide'' or ''star'''''. This includes having at least one good picture, and listings/headers/etc. that match our [[Project:manual of style|manual of style]]. * The nominated article must not have been featured since Wikivoyage became a WMF project in 2013. ** See [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], and [[Previous Featured travel topics]] to check. * If the article has been nominated previously but failed, any objections should be addressed before nominating it again. ** Check the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|slush pile]]. ** If you think a once-slushed destination is now ready to go, list it as new, but with a pointer to the slush pile entry. ** The article should preferably be nominated 3 to 12 months before the intended feature date; ready to feature as is, or with edits that can be done well before featuring. Well-known and/or popular destinations should be nominated as '''Destination of the Month''', while more obscure destinations should be nominated for '''Off the Beaten Path'''. '''Featured Travel Topic''' includes travel topics, phrasebooks, itineraries, and other articles not part of the [[Wikivoyage:Geographic hierarchy|geographic hierarchy]], as well as airports (as they are not usually destinations in their own right). Where applicable, you should propose a good time to visit the destination as a month to be featured. The basic format of a nomination is as follows: <span style=color:green><nowiki>{{FeatureNom</nowiki> <nowiki>| place=Destination</nowiki> <nowiki>| blurb='''[[Destination]]''' is a place of contrasts, and as such it...</nowiki> <nowiki>| status=Guide</nowiki> <nowiki>| time=March-June</nowiki> <nowiki>| nominatedBy=~~~~</nowiki> <nowiki>| comment=Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime.</nowiki> <nowiki>| DotMImage=[[File:Destinationimage.jpg|thumb|300px]]</nowiki> <nowiki>}}</nowiki></span> Add a nomination to the ''end'' of the appropriate section. ==Discuss== You can comment on any nomination based on timeliness and adherence to the criteria above, just add a bullet point (*) and your signed opinion. <nowiki>===[[Destination]]===</nowiki> <nowiki>Great article and it's just luvvly-jubbly in the springtime. TravelNut 25:25, 31 Feb 2525 (UTC)</nowiki> <span style=color:green><nowiki>* Looks nice, but shouldn't the Do section contain more than just quilting contests? ~~~~</nowiki></span> Please note that the following are '''not''' considered valid reasons to oppose a nomination: * '''"I don't like it."''' All objections have to be based on the guidelines above: poor formatting, missing information, etc. Personal opinions, dislikes, etc. do not count. * '''"Wrong time of year."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Timing can be worked out later. * '''"Wrong type of place."''' Articles are supported or opposed based on their content. Whether it's DotM or OtBP can be worked out later. ==Select== If an article gets '''three''' comments in favor and no (unresolved) comments against, it's eligible to be placed in an appropriate time-slot in the '''Upcoming''' queue. If the objections are relatively minor and are being worked on, add them to the '''Upcoming''' queue tentatively (add a question mark "?" after the article). Feel free to move the queue around or swap articles if it makes sense. If a nomination clearly does not make the grade and if the objections are not easily fixable, they go into the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|Slush pile]] ([[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile/{{CURRENTYEAR}}|current slush pile]]). Once a nomination has been scheduled, an appropriate banner image and text blurb must be selected. Go to [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners]] to start that discussion. ==Archive== Discussions for previously selected destinations are kept in the [[Project:Destination of the month candidates/Archive|Archive]]. ==Upcoming== ===Schedule=== The following queue should contain about the next few months' worth of upcoming destinations. Note that new DotMs are rotated in on the '''1st''' of each month, OtBPs on the '''11th''' and travel topics on the '''21st'''. {|border="1" cellspacing=0 cellpadding="3" style="text-align:center" !Month !DotM !OtBP !FTT |- ! align="right" | July 2025 | <s>[[Cuzco]] – pending stronger consensus to support</s> | <s>[[Forillon National Park]] </s> | [[Sound of Music]] – pending minor fixes |- ! align="right" | August 2025 | [[Gothenburg]] – pending minor fixes | [[Paldiski]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus | [[Gemstones]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus |- ! align="right" | September 2025 | [[Canberra/Civic]] | [[Bowling Green (Ohio)]] | [[Rail travel in Great Britain]] |- ! align="right" | October 2025 | [[Parahyangan]] – pending stronger consensus to support | [[Sekigahara]] | [[Driving in China]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support |- ! align="right" | November 2025 | [[San Carlos de Bariloche]] – pending stronger consensus to support | [[Andorra la Vella]] | [[San Diego International Airport]] - pending minor fixes and stronger consensus to support |- ! align="right" | December 2025 | [[Hong Kong/Kowloon]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support | [[Saint-Louis]] – pending fixes and stronger consensus to support | [[Dehydration]] - pending stronger consensus to support |} Try to avoid two overlapping or back-to-back features from the same country, as well as long streaks of features from the same continent. It is customary to wait 24 months between articles from the same or nearby cities. The schedule is not cast in stone. However, any change made to the schedule should have a compelling reason behind it, and should be effected as far in advance as possible of the article's scheduled term on the Main Page. In particular, unless absolutely necessary, we discourage nominee articles from being slushed or rescheduled after [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners|banners]] have been made for them, which usually happens 2–3 months before being featured. Whenever an article becomes a current feature, it should be removed from the list, the discussion archived, and (when changing out Featured Travel Topics) a new month added to the end of the queue. ===Next changes=== Decisions regarding which images to use as the banners are made at '''[[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners]]'''. The section below provides an opportunity to see what the upcoming featured articles will look like on the [[Main Page]] using the banners that are currently most popular on the above page. {{banner |type=dotm |direction=right |title=Gothenburg |image=GothenburgBanner1.jpg |quote=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months.}} {{banner|direction=right|title=Paldiski|type=otbp|image=PaldiskiBanner1.jpg|quote=In this Baltic Sea port you can dive into the remains of the former Soviet Union.}} {{banner|direction=left|type=ftt|title=Sound of Music|image=SoundOfMusicBanner1.jpg|quote=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. }} ===Updating=== On the date of the scheduled change, the DotM, OtBP, or FTT should be changed as close to midnight UTC as possible. This can only be done by administrators. When the featured page is changed, please follow the following procedures to do so and archive content to the appropriate pages. At each stage, please double-check that you are correctly moving content. Several steps involves copy pasting of the file names of the Main Page banners – former, current, and next – so it can be useful to open those in tabs first. # Update the featured articles on the [[Main Page|main page]] by replacing the current 'banner' template section with those of the appropriate banner for the new DotM/OtBP/FTT found in the ''Next change'' section above. #Update the [[Main_Page/Photo_credits|Photo credits]] page with the banner's '''original image''', title and attribution. # Add the former featured article to the appropriate archive page: [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], or [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. # For the former featured article, add the appropriate parameter to the pagebanner template (directly after the image filename) to label the page as having been featured previously. #* For former DotMs, add: {{!}}dotm=yes #* For former OtBPs, add: {{!}}otbp=yes #* For former FTTs, add: {{!}}ftt=yes # Remove [[Template:Featurenomination]] from newly featured article. # Archive the newly featured article's nomination. Simply cut-and-paste the nomination section of the newly featured article from this page to [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Archive]]. # Update the '''Next change''' section above by adding the banner from [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Banners|the discussion page]]. View the table in the '''Schedule''' section above to determine what next month's change will be, then update the image and blurb in the "Next change" section with that found in the upcoming featured article's nomination. # In the schedule, use <nowiki><s> and </s></nowiki> to strikethrough the newly featured article. Remove the row from the table if the newly featured article is the FTT. #Archive the newly featured article's banner by cutting-and-pasting all banner suggestions and the associated discussion into [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Banners/Archive]]. ==Nominations for Destination of the Month== ===[[Gothenburg]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Gothenburg | blurb=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=I've been thinking about nominating this article for quite a while now. Some listings look rather bare-bones and a month or two before the article is featured we should check that all the listings are still in business. And my pet peeve :) – the latter half of the article could use some more photos. | DotMImage=[[File:Gothenburg Central Station (Göteborgs Centralstation) 15393945292.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} <s>* '''Almost''' per nomination. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC)</s> ::'''Support''' now after said fixes. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:41, 24 June 2025 (UTC) * '''Almost''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:50, 2 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Almost''' per others. I think this article looks excellent on the whole. I think the "public baths" section needs a rethink, and certainly needs more detail, but otherwise, I think this one can be made feature-ready in a few months. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:23, 7 January 2025 (UTC) : '''Put on hold?''' Provided that [[Cochabamba]] and [[San Carlos de Bariloche]] have sufficient support votes, and a couple of Nordic destinations are scheduled soon; shall we save Gothenburg for 2026? /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 01:08, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::No. As long as it is a requirement to run articles during months when the weather is suitable, we should not on one hand burn the precious summer slots on articles that can be ran other times of the year, and on the other hand burn the precious articles that can be run also during the winter or shoulder seasons during the summer months. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:28, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::Cochabamba and San Carlos de Bariloche are both in the southern hemisphere, so "summer" is actually December-February. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:23, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::::Well, I meant the months from May-September, the summer months in Canada, the US and (the northern half of) Europe from where maybe 3/4 of our current not yet featured articles are from. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 21:39, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::::Right! I knew what you meant, which is why those two mentioned destinations aren't in competition for the "summer" slots since it will be winter down under. By the way, skiing is popular in my family, so we LIKE places that have snowy, icy winter weather! [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 22:30, 28 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::Yes, so some high-latitude destinations can be featured in local winter, but most temperate and arctic cities are more pleasant in summer – especially those that don't have snowy, icy winter weather in winter, but just darkness (with light pollution destroying even that experience) and slush. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:59, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::I think for Gothenberg it's still more appropriate to feature during the summer. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:04, 1 March 2025 (UTC) ::::::::Yes. Its at the coast and much south from Turku, and while we can experience some beautiful winter weather here, it isn't at all guaranteed for somebody staying for a few weeks or less. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:19, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::::Agreed – it also doesn't help that in much of the Southern Hemisphere those months are also dry season. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:32, 28 February 2025 (UTC) :::::: Gothenburg has enough indoor destinations to be meaningful as an off-season destination; it is however best at summer. In any case, the article still has zero support votes, and some issues remain. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:20, 5 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::The issues, resulting in the article not having support votes are is basically the fact that the listings need to be checked for up-to-dateness. This is something which could of course have been done last October when nominating the article, but it's much better to do it closer to the time the article is featured. Especially in the case that someone decides to postpone the featuring of the article time of feature. :::::::Recently Recife was featured, and I checked the listings for the THIRD time over the last couple of years. When doing that I was seriously wondering if the time spent on the featured articles and indeed having featured articles could be better used in developing other articles and other aspects of the site as a whole. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:39, 9 March 2025 (UTC) :::::::It may have zero "support" votes, but in this case we should treat "almost" like a support vote because the main thing that needs to happen before featuring is a quick update. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:40, 9 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Canberra/Civic]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Civic | blurb=The central district of Australia's capital [[Canberra]] is compact but punches well above its weight for eating and shopping, becoming particularly active for Canberra's tulip festival, Floriade. | status=Guide | time=September for Floriade (tulip season) | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:47, 1 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=It has been a guide article since 2022 and most listings are no older than 3 years. Thought it would be a good time to feature this for Canberra's annual tulip festival, Floriade, which happens in nearby [[Canberra/North Canberra|Commonwealth Park]] but the CBD area does become active around that time. | DotMImage=[[File:Autumn in Canberra (01).jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:47, 1 January 2025 (UTC) * The article is fine but Civic is just really... boring? I was trying to come up with a catchy blurb but the above is as good as I could get. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 00:23, 2 January 2025 (UTC) *:Honestly, yeah – it gets quite a bit of talk in the planning sphere and circles but other than that, there's nothing particularly exciting about Civic urban planning aspects aside. But thanks for the better blurb – I too kinda struggled to come up with a good blurb. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:56, 2 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - No gaping holes in the article, all listings have coordinates and overall the article looks good. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. I think this article is close to star status, and is definitely good enough to be featured. I commented further at [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations#Canberra/Civic]]. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:55, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Cochabamba]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Cochabamba | blurb=The fourth-largest city in [[Bolivia]], Cochabamba is known as the "Garden City" for its mild climate year-round, cathedral squares, and shops and restaurants. | status=Guide | time=any (however Dec-Feb/Mar [[:w:Cochabamba#Climate|are apparently quite wet]]) | nominatedBy=<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=I've done significant work on this article today to get it up to guide status. I think there are some good restaurants and hotels missing from this list that I might get to, but the article is already in good shape following the addition of coordinates and the removal of closed businesses. Although a check shows we have featured cities in Bolivia before (as recently as last February), South America seems to be underrepresented overall, so this nomination should help with geographic diversity. | DotMImage=[[File:Cochabamba-Plaza.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} per nom – great work on the updates! --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:32, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:Thanks! I've done some more work on the article since. It's great to see the quality of our coverage of Bolivia, with two of the capitals ([[La Paz]] and [[Sucre]]) already having been featured and [[Santa Cruz de la Sierra]] not far from guide status. Many of the smaller towns are also within striking distance of guide status. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 01:59, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *::ikr – it's such an amazing achievement for a country that doesn't get in the spotlight much. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:25, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - solid article with recent updates by SelfieCity. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:51, 25 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Very close''', it's a nice article but the Understand section could be a little bit longer with a couple of paragraphs about the city's history and climate for example. This would also help keeping that map within the Understand section. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:17, 18 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[San Carlos de Bariloche]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=San Carlos de Bariloche | blurb=The Argentine adventure capital offers great opportunities for skiing, sightseeing, water sports, trekking and climbing amidst the amazing mountainous landscapes of Argentine Patagonia. | status=Guide | time=southern spring | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:27, 14 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=Interestingly, we've never had a DotM from Argentina excluding Iguaçu Falls (but 2 from Uruguay and 2 from Chile) and I figured this would be a good one to start with. It might need another checkup closer to featuring and I am in the process of updating many of the listings + adding coordinates, but otherwise I cannot see why we can't feature this. | DotMImage=[[File:View from the Golf course at Llao Llao.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:27, 14 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' pending some small fixes. Some listings need work (descriptions and coordinates) but nothing major that would prevent this one from being featured. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:58, 14 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} looks complete and up-to-date.[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:19, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Parahyangan]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Parahyangan | blurb=The West Javanese region centred around Java's third largest city of Bandung is an excellent place to hike and admire active volcanoes. | status=Guide | time=May–Oct (dry season + good weather for hiking) | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:24, 6 February 2025 (UTC) | comment=It's not often that we feature region articles, but this one has all articles breadcrumbed beneath it as usable or guide, and this will be our first region feature from Java. Since most of our DotMs are filled up for 2025, this might need to wait until 2026, which I have no issue with (I know [[Medan]] was featured only last month as DotM in January, but I don't think that should pose an issue with scheduling as that's on a completely different island). | DotMImage=[[File:Kawah Putih from the bottom, Bandung Regency, 2014-08-21.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} as per nom statement. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:24, 6 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' could use a "Sleep" section with summary info, pointers to which breadcrumbed destinations have best/most listings, and maybe some mentions of particularly interesting places to stay. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:37, 14 February 2025 (UTC) *:Sleep sections are not standard for region articles, though. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:25, 15 February 2025 (UTC) *::Certainly sleep listings are not standard, but a summary or pointers to outstanding/unique lodgings in the region are traveler-centric and *should* be included in any guide-level region article. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:53, 25 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Hong Kong/Kowloon]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Kowloon | blurb=One of the most densely populated cities on Earth, Hong Kong's mainland portion offers a culture less influenced by the British than the neighboring Island, plus accommodation, dining, and nightlife at a comparative bargain. (blurb from its former nomination) | status=Guide | time=Oct-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:41, 21 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Here's another good Northern Hemisphere winter feature. Slushed in 2016, but the reason was that nearby Macau was to be featured then. The article is extensive and tidy, but as usual the listings need to be checked, updated and coordinates added where needed. | DotMImage=[[File:Kowloon Waterfront, Hong Kong, 2013-08-09, DD 03.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' - ie. updates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:41, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work''' - quite a few outdated listings and many without coordinates. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 19:09, 15 May 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work''' as per the comment. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:49, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[Nairobi]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Nairobi | blurb=There's much to experience in the Kenyan capital - from cultural sites and the contrasting high-rises to parks and wildlife. | status=Guide | time=Jan-Feb, Jun-Sep are the drier months | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:07, 18 June 2025 (UTC) | comment=I just promoted this to guide, as it's a really extensive article and could be a nice feature for e.g. early 2026 (to give us one more African feature in addition to Saint-Louis which could be December's OtBP). As usual, some of the information might have gone out of date since it was added, but given that [https://wikimania.wikimedia.org/wiki/2025:Wikimania Wikimania will take place there in August], there's a good chance that the article will get some fresh content already then, especially if Wikivoyage gets some visibility during the event. | DotMImage=[[File:A lone giraffe in Nairobi National Park.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' as usual. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:07, 18 June 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs some work.''' As mentioned before, the DoTM category has had very few African destinations; most of them have been in OtBP and FTT. Nairobi is one of the continent's most cosmopolitan cities, and deserves to be featured. However, we should not sacrifice quality for diversity. More venues should have coordinates. The [[safari]] destinations within reach from the city could possibly be grouped together, with some general information. General information on price levels and nightlife would be appreciated. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 12:26, 24 June 2025 (UTC) ==Nominations for Off the Beaten Path== ===[[Sekigahara]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sekigahara | blurb= This quaint mountain town and battlefield, where Tokugawa won control of Japan, gives visitors firsthand insight into feudal Japanese warfare. | status=Guide | time=March-May; October | nominatedBy=[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 11:34, 2 May 2024 (UTC) | comment= This town would be perfect for OTBP, given its importance in Japanese history and its well-developed tourist services. It is a small town with very few dining options and lodging (which might be an issue but might not depending on consensus), but it is close to larger Japanese cities like Maibara and Nagoya and would be a perfect day trip from Kyoto et al., especially since it is on a major train line. It is especially beautiful in the spring when the plum and cherry blossoms bloom, but the Battle of Sekigahara was in October of 1600, so it would also work for an October listing. | DotMImage=[[File:Sekigahara Museum and Watertower.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} Can't see anything that would prevent this from being an OtBP. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 12:07, 2 May 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} Article looks good & the site is important. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:00, 2 May 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} The article is good. Having visited once, I can attest that the historical sites are ''really'' not geared for English-speaking visitors, but the article doesn't pretend otherwise and it's fine for a mildly interesting day trip. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 06:01, 3 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Well, if there are few places to eat and drink and sleep, we can't list any more than there actually is :). I think we should run the Sekigahara in October for the re-enactment of the battle as we will probably already have one Japanese feature sometime next spring ([[Public baths in Japan]] as FTT). --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 08:50, 10 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Not Yet''' With zero "Eat" or "Buy" listings, this article has not earned guide status. We should not be saying things like "some decent restaurants and cafes opened both in the battlefield and around the station". Instead, those restaurants and cafes should be given listings. Sekigahara's website shows that the city has numerous restaurants. Similarly "souvenir shops around town" should be given listings. Other encampments should also be given listings. They will not overwhelm the article and they provide deeper understanding of the battle, especially in an article that says you won't understand if you don't speak Japanese. The article also doesn't list much outside of the battlefield. No War Land? No cave? No mention of the Nakasendo post town (Sekigahara-juku)? How about the opportunity to don samurai outfits? I have been to Sekigahara numerous times. It wasn't really on my radar to edit, but maybe I can try adding things here and there to get it up to standard. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:59, 30 June 2024 (UTC) ::Better to run it in the spring, then, if there's content that needs to be added to the article. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:51, 11 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article now has listings for the sites mentioned in [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]]'s comment, including for restaurants. The article is still at Usable status but can be upgraded to Guide before being featured. --[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 08:12, 10 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. The article has been significantly upgraded and looks like it is in great shape now. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:29, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' Major concerns were addressed, but I think do think October is the most appropriate time to feature it to coincide with the battle. Sekigahara is still pretty cold in March. What is the reason for specifying March-May as the feature months? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:39, 8 January 2025 (UTC) *:I don't see why we can't wait until October – what should replace Sekigahara in March then? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:51, 8 January 2025 (UTC) *:I only suggested March-May because I had visited in March 2023 and it was pleasant and warm, and because the cherry blossoms were starting to bloom. It's fine by me if Sekigahara is rescheduled to October; it's also fine if it's left as-is. [[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 09:41, 14 January 2025 (UTC) *::I've removed it from March, left it as a vacant spot for now. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:43, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - sounds like a cool place. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:55, 19 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Paldiski]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Paldiski | blurb=In this Baltic Sea port you can dive into the remains of the former Soviet Union. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:54, 15 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=Our first feature from the Baltic States in another category than DotM. The article is a translation of a ru-WV Star article by me. The article can possibly be expanded a little, but fact remains that you won't find too many places to eat and drink here (or at least was the case back in 2019 when I visited). | DotMImage=[[File:Sadama street Paldiski Estonia.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' however listings need to be checked preferably a month or so before featuring per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:54, 15 November 2024 (UTC) :*It looks like it could use some copy editing before it's featured. I [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Paldiski&diff=4970208&oldid=4970184 did some]. It will be a viable feature article once this is taken care of, though. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:01, 15 November 2024 (UTC) *'''Close''' per Ikan. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:28, 8 December 2024 (UTC) * '''Needs work'''. The first half of this article is excellent. However, some of the sections such as "Sleep" are seriously lacking. The only hotel listing with information is noted for having bad ratings. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:35, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' - Seems too lightweight to be a "guide". 3 restaurants and 2 hotels seems more inline with "usable" status. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:30, 27 February 2025 (UTC) : Well, as noted in the nomination comment I wouldn't expect there to be much more to add. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 12:36, 13 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Bowling Green (Ohio)]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Bowling Green, Ohio | blurb="Bee Gee" is centered around its State University with a range of student events and lively pubs during semesters, and a Midwestern small town feel around the year. | status=Guide | time=September 2025 when the college semester has begun? Otherwise Spring or Fall probably | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=A few years ago [[User:Mbrickn|Mbrickn]] improved many articles from Ohio, for instance this one. This is a clean and extensive article that could pretty much be featured today. Mbrickn hasn't been active here as of lately but their great work surely deserves a month on the Main Page, especially as we've apparently never featured anything from Ohio. | DotMImage=[[File:Bowling Green Ohio Main Street.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 20:43, 15 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} Listings may need an update closer to featuring, but other than that, there aren't any glaring issues. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:39, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' Sorry for the late return - I would be happy to review and update if this helps. --[[User:Mbrickn|Mbrickn]] ([[User talk:Mbrickn|talk]]) 19:43, 28 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Andorra la Vella]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Andorra la Vella | blurb='''[[Andorra la Vella]]''' is the capital of a quirky co-principality lodged in the mountains between Spain and France that offers great skiing, hiking, and lots of duty-free shopping. | status=Guide | time=A year-round destination. | nominatedBy=[[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 09:39, 2 February 2025 (UTC) | comment=Andorra is a place that isn't that easy to get to as it hasn't an airport, but it isn't impossible, and it will definitely attract attention from readers interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations. And it would be the first feature for Andorra. | DotMImage=[[File:Andorra la Vella - footpath.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as per my comments on [[Talk:Andorra la Vella]] – it may need some last-minute updates closer to featuring, but that's about it I think (also keeping in mind that despite Andorra la Vella giving the illusion of a capital city, it's still only a small town). --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:07, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per above. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 18:14, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - I've noticed [[User:Ground Zero|your]] great work on the article, hope you're having a great time there, and it's also nice to see a feature from a country we've (unsurprisingly) not had any features from previously. Maybe it'd be suitable as a skiing destination next winter? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:42, 2 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:40, 19 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Happy to have updated this page when I visited in 2018 and see this being featured. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 14:30, 24 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Saint-Louis]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Saint-Louis | blurb=Once the colonial capital of French West Africa, Saint-Louis boasts a world heritage listed old town and lively markets and is a gateway to the Langue de Barbarie National Park | status=Guide | time=Nov-May is the dry season, according to [[:w:Saint-Louis, Senegal|Wikipedia]] | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:05, 21 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=Time to think about some article's for the end of the year. Here's another one of our relatively few African guide articles that we haven't featured yet. I sorted out this article, deleted dead businesses and added coordinates a while ago... but looking at the article history that was apparently back in 2020! So even if it has a lot of content it needs an update again, closer to the time it is featured. | DotMImage=[[File:Saintlouis pont Faidherbe.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Pending update''' per comment, otherwise good to go. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:05, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support, with one question'''. First up, thanks for the updates! It's looking real nice now that it's been updated now. But I do wonder if this is better suited as a DotM? It's reasonably well-known especially as a former colonial capital. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:37, 21 March 2025 (UTC) :: Well, it was five years ago I polished up a couple of articles from parts of the world we don't cover that well, so the listings need to be checked again. It seems Saint-Louis is a place that could work as both as an DotM or an OtBP. On one hand it's one of Senegal's top destinations and as such you will meet other visitors also, but it takes a little effort to get there and Senegal is only 107th in the World tourism rankings (13th in Africa), so I put it in OtBP (and nominated it now because we have fewer candidates in this section), but it can be moved to DotM. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:03, 21 March 2025 (UTC) :::Yeah, you definitely are right that it works both as a DotM and an OtBP. I think I have a slight preference towards DotM because this and [[Dakar]] are likely the only Senegalese destinations that we could ever feature as a DotM. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:11, 21 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[El Cuyo]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=El Cuyo | blurb=Virtually unknown to foreign travelers only a few years ago, El Cuyo beckons to visitors looking for a quiet, natural seaside town to bask in the sun undisturbed by revelers while other visitors seek adrenaline-pumping excitement as they take advantage of the kind of steady sea breezes that make it an ideal kitesurfing destination. It's secluded and just enough of a pain to get to to keep crowds away, but close enough to Cancun that you can get there cheaply and easily within a few hours. | status=Guide | time=Nov-May is the dry season, which is also sunny and warm while much of the northern hemisphere freezes | nominatedBy=[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:57, 7 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Not many Mexican destinations have been featured. Here's one that's very new with nothing outdated. All sections have appropriate content and it should be ready to go whenever a suitable time for it comes up. | DotMImage=[[File:El Cuyo, Yucatan, Mexico Dec 2021 - Boats.jpg|thumb|El Cuyo, Yucatan]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. It might need a bit of cleanup and expansion, but otherwise good to go. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:57, 7 April 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} this is nearly perfect. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:23, 7 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - looks good! (The standard Ypsilon complaint: a couple of photos in the latter half would be nice to have). I was recently thinking about nominating one of the many Mexican guide articles you've been working on, but wasn't sure which to choose. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:08, 11 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Ko Kret]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Ko Kret | blurb=Experience the culture of the Mon people, including their pottery and cuisine, on this island just outside Bangkok | status=Guide | time=Nov-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:42, 21 April 2025 (UTC) | comment=Time to think about early 2026's OtBP articles, how about taking our readers to a small river island in Thailand? As usual we have to check if everything listed is still in business and if prices and such details are about right. The lack of coordinates in some listings mean that they may have been added over ten years ago. | DotMImage=[[File:Village1 House.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' - ie. updates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:42, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Close''', pending significant updates + coordinates. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:01, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ==Nominations for Featured travel topic== ===[[San Diego International Airport]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=San Diego International Airport | blurb=The main airport to America's finest city is the busiest single runway airport in the world, | status=Guide | time=Year round, not only because there are people who change planes in the San Diego International Airport, but also because San Diego itself is a good place to visit any time of the year. | nominatedBy=[[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 04:28, 20 August 2024 (UTC)Someonehere12345 | comment=Last time an article from an airport in the United States was featured travel topic, it was November 2019 Atlanta. (please note I do not have a banner in mind, but if anyone does then feel free to bring it up in the destination of the month candidates/banners page. | DotMImage=[[File:San Diego International Airport Oct 7, 2019.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator--[[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 04:32, 20 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' - nicely complete article that's up-to-date. Great airport too, very convenient to the downtown area. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 16:43, 30 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Very very close''' - would be nice to have a few more pictures here and there. Otherwise it's apparently up to date and good to go. As YVR is going on the Main Page next spring, this will probably have to sit around here on the nominations page for a while as we don't want to run similar articles (in this case airport articles) too close to each other in the schedule... --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:58, 20 September 2024 (UTC) *:I just added a few more images [[User:Someonehere12345|Someonehere12345]] ([[User talk:Someonehere12345|talk]]) 22:45, 23 September 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:02, 4 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Very close'''. "Sleep" would benefit from more detail in the listings. I also think that th Eat and Drink sections should be separated. However, this one looks close to feature-able status. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:37, 7 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Gemstones]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Gemstones | blurb=Many travellers buy gems or jewellery during their journeys. | status=Guide | time=any | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 20:38, 3 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=There are both some fine bargains to be had and some incredibly bad "tourist trap" deals. | DotMImage=[[File:Jade FiveRats.jpg|thumb|Chinese jade pendant|300px]] }} *<s>'''Needs work'''</s> – in particular, the [[Gemstones#Museums|&sect; Museums]] section which is lacking many details and coordinates. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:01, 4 October 2024 (UTC) *: The museums now have coordinates (they already had links to the listings, from where I got the coords), and the collections and gems have wikidata links (except the Three Treasures, which don't seem to have an article in Wikipedia in English). They have descriptions; what more details would be needed? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:12, 4 October 2024 (UTC) *::{{s}} upon further improvements. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:36, 1 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close''' The other parts of the article look good, but surely there must be more than four gemstone museums in the world worth visiting? I would also believe that some mines have visitor centers and/or can be visited as such. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:56, 1 November 2024 (UTC) :: I did a web search & added some I found. :: No doubt more could be done. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 18:04, 1 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close'''. There are still some coordinates and listing details missing, which should be present to feature this article. But I think it is possible to get this feature-ready. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:40, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:I've scheduled this for August –&nbsp;I think that's plenty of time to fix any issues with this article. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:39, 21 January 2025 (UTC) : There are unanswered questions on the talk page about [[Gemstones#Stones]] :: How should this section be organised? Alphabetised? Split up into sections for for precious & semi-precious? :: Some stones get their own headings & subsections, starting at [[Gemstones#Rubies_and_sapphires]]. All the others just have listings. Do we have the mix right? Should other precious stones -- diamond & emerald -- have their own subsections? Perhaps a subsection for quartz minerals since at least a half dozen of those can be used as gems? : I think these should be answered before we feature the article. Suggestions? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 05:48, 6 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Sound of Music]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sound of Music | blurb=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. | status=Guide | time=Spring or summer. 2025 is the film's 60th anniversary. Not sure whether there are public events dedicated to the film. | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 23:32, 3 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=We have had surprisingly few features from [[Austria]]. Previous versions of the country's article (and its blurb in [[Central Europe]]) have criticized the film's stereotypic depictions of the country. This article was recently expanded to give background on the real Trapp family, the German film about them, and the inaccuracies and controversies of ''Sound of Music''. Some more information about how to find and visit the venues might be useful. | DotMImage=[[File:Schloss Leopoldskron Salzburg.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Comment'''. I don't think the musical had anything to do with Hollywood, so the blurb needs tweaking. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:32, 7 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Very very close''' - as discussed on the talk page, a couple of more photos would be nice. Moreover, some of the listings in the end of the article have quite short descriptions. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:14, 7 November 2024 (UTC) *'''Support'''. I watched this film many times as a child,and have much enjoyed doing my share of work on this article to complete it and address all the issues listings-wise, and at this moment it has attained a good shape. It must be mentioned that the term "Hollywood version" is very much used throughout the article, synonymous with "American version", to disambiguate from the 1956 "German version". This metonym is not very accurate, as 20th Century Studios are in [[Century City]] and not Hollywood, but I don't see it as an issue that could prevent the article of making FTT. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 10:54, 20 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:41, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} per Ibaman. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:33, 3 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Driving in China]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Driving in China | blurb=China isn't one of the countries that foreigners commonly explore by driving themselves. If you'd still like to, the first step would be getting a local driving license. | status=Guide | time=Any, though maybe not in mid-winter | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:50, 21 January 2025 (UTC) | comment="Driving in..." articles have been a rare sight on the Main Page in the last couple of years as you can see in [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. Here's an interesting one. The article looks really extensive, but the content and headings perhaps need to be rearranged. On the other hand I don't remember if we have any standard order for the information in driving articles. | DotMImage=[[File:PeopleSquareTraffic.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' per comment. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:50, 21 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:15, 21 January 2025 (UTC) *Definitely needs more copy editing. I edited the lede and part of "Understand," and there was a lot of redundancy and some lack of articles and such. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:05, 31 March 2025 (UTC) === [[Dehydration]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Dehydration | blurb=A condition that may affect travellers in many places and for many reasons. Never pleasant, sometimes fatal. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:Coach Ken, Hydrate or die 120521-F-WX664-210.jpg|thumb]] | comment=The most common causes are severe [[diarrhea]], sweating a lot in [[hot weather]] or during strenuous activity such as a [[marathon race]], and water evaporating more quickly at lower air pressure, which is a factor in [[altitude sickness]]. Dehydration is also a factor in [[hangover]]s. This article can be relevant for a fairly broad range of travellers. | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 22:15, 14 February 2025 (UTC) }} *{{s}} I mentioned before that it is short, but I really don't think much else needs to be added without it duplicating other articles such as [[hot weather]] or [[arid region safety]]. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:30, 14 February 2025 (UTC) : '''Comment:''' This article is most relevant internationally during northern summer (June to August); however, this period tends to be highly requested for featured articles. This article is short, though it covers the necessities of the topic. As long as we have no formal rules for the minimum length of a featured article or a guide-level article, this is not an issue. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 00:30, 21 February 2025 (UTC) :: The only thing I know of that it might be missing is anything about dairy products; see [[Talk:Dehydration#Questions]]. I'm not sure what could be said about those. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 04:15, 21 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''': although also mentioned at [[Hot weather]], I believe this article should contain a discussion regarding heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke in particular has some different instructions from typical dehydration that should receive a mention: "Cool their body with cool (not ice cold, but if ice is all you have then make sure it doesn't make direct contact with the patient's skin) water and fan them. Do not force an unconscious person to drink anything." (from [[Hot weather#Heat stroke]]). <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 00:59, 26 February 2025 (UTC) :: I added a one-liner: ::: All of the conditions mentioned above can also involve problems other than dehydration; see the linked articles for details. :: Is that enough? [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:56, 12 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''': Although we don't use references, I think it is helpful if an medical travel topic has links to reliable sources, either in the article or on the talk page. In particular, I would like to know why we are recommending 8g of salt per litre of water. The [https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-FCH-CAH-06.1 WHO] suggest 2.6g of salt in one publication, and changed their formula in 2003, but I expect that there are many other different recommendations. [[:Wikipedia:Management of dehydration]] has advice on pausing briefly during vomiting. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 13:51, 13 April 2025 (UTC) :: The current recipe with 8g is text that I moved here, unaltered, from the diarrhea article. Apparently it needs improvement. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 13:03, 18 April 2025 (UTC) :: {{ping|Doc James}} [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 20:06, 29 April 2025 (UTC) :::Agree the recommended sodium was too high and I have dropped it in half with a reference to the Alberta Health Services. Also added details and a picture of a water filter [[User:Doc James|<span style="color:#0000f1">'''Travel Doc James'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Doc_James|talk]] · [[Special:Contributions/Doc_James|contribs]] · [[Special:EmailUser/Doc_James|email]]) 14:12, 1 May 2025 (UTC) ::::Thanks, the new recipe is more what I was expecting and I like the linked article giving several variations. I now '''support''' featuring this. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:45, 2 May 2025 (UTC) === [[Carpets]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Carpets | blurb=A popular souvenir and a reason for some museum visits. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:Russian_Bouchara.jpg|thumb]] | comment=Mainly but not only for travellers in Asia. | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 17:01, 17 February 2025 (UTC) }} * '''Support''' - looks quite extensive. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:12, 25 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Japanese castles]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Japanese castles | blurb='''[[Japanese castles]]''' are a striking combination of form and function, which served simultaneously as defensive bases, symbols of might and luxurious residences. | status=Guide | time=Any time of year | nominatedBy=[[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 23:18, 17 February 2025 (UTC) | comment= | DotMImage=[[File:Matsumoto_Castle05s5s4592.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Not yet''' To me, the article is lacking in actual castle listings aside from the 12 originals. It may be the way the article is structured, I'm not sure, but exemplary castles in terms of historical events, historical figures, construction or aspects of its construction, architecture, time periods, etc. should be listed with explanations. Articles like this should be pointing people with an interest in castles towards destinations that cater to that interest. Like a lot of our travel topics, it is too Wikipedia not enough travel (or voyage). To me, I think it's a good start-up article but I don't think it's a "guide status" article. Like I said, I'm not sure if it would work better with a different structuring or maybe it just needs listings within the current structure. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:22, 20 February 2025 (UTC) *: I'm not sure I agree. The article provides a ton of detailed information about Japanese castles in general (yes, Wikipedia-style, but it's appropriate here), then listings of every single original castle in Japan with succinct descriptions and why you'd want to visit. Isn't this enough? Opening hours and similar nitty-gritty belongs in the destination articles. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 23:54, 20 February 2025 (UTC) *::None of the issues I stated above suggested I was concerned about listing opening hours. I'd like the castle travel article to feature castles to travel to. The 12 originals are in the [[Japan]] article, so if that's "enough", the article is redundant. The "detailed information" is all fluff and filler without relating it to castles that can be visited. Most people with an interest in Japanese castles would already be aware of the 12 originals, so it's not a very useful article in its current state. It has a workable structure but is underdeveloped. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:11, 21 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Along the Rambla of Montevideo]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Along the Rambla of Montevideo | blurb=This 22-kilometre network of streets passes through many of Montevideo's main sights along its coastline. | status=Guide | time=Southern summer/autumn | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:31, 3 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=Recently came across this article written by {{u|Ypsilon}} and I must say I'm rather pleased with how detailed it is. Since most of it was only written a few months ago, few updates are needed (if any) and I can't see anything critical missing. | DotMImage=[[File:Rambla de Pocitos.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * {{s}} per my nomination statement. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:31, 3 March 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} an interesting topic with good local color. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 12:56, 10 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', excellent article with minimal to no edits needed before featuring. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:03, 6 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Rail travel in Great Britain]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Rail travel in Great Britain | blurb=200 years ago, on 27 September 1825, the first ever passenger train ran between Stockton-on-Tees and Darlington. Since then, the rail network in Great Britain has become one of the world's densest and most well-utilised systems. | status=Guide | time=September 2025 | nominatedBy=//<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:08, 21 March 2025 (UTC) | comment=As suggested by {{u|Grahamsands}} in the pub, we as Wikivoyage should do something to commemorate the 200th anniversary of rail travel and I think featuring this article is one of the best things we can do to celebrate this. | DotMImage=[[File:Dawlish - DBS 67029 going to Paignton.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' - it's been a while since our last "Rail travel in..." feature, and it would be a superb timing to run it for the 200th anniversary of rail travel overall. It's a very extensive article that's been on my radar for some time too, though I vaguely remember some British editor ([[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|TT]]?) saying there was something important missing from the article. As I can't remember what it was, and it was a couple of years ago, it's possible that the issue has been fixed. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:16, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' as initiator. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 15:25, 22 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' - I considered nominating this about a week ago - drafted a nomination and everything - but decided against it. The passenger rail system is being gradually renationalised, so there will be a lot of upcoming changes to the system and hence this article. The details of the rollout are still a little wooly, but at some point in the next three years (and possibly as early as this May, when SWR becomes the first company in England to be formally renationalised), Network Rail, National Rail and the vast majority of the train companies will be retired and replaced by "Great British Railways". So, I certainly agree the anniversary makes this a good year to feature this article, and the big changes in how the system will be run also merit highlighting. However, I'm concerned it might be more of a work in progress than a feature normally is. Is that a problem? : As for what the missing info might have been, [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]]'s guess is as good as mine, but I'll try to make my thinker work and get back to you if I remember.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 01:37, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', despite it likely needing rewriting before its feature. Possible smaller inaccuracies can always be warned for using an infobox in the most relevant section. If I can be of any help in keeping the article updated despite my lack of experience with the British network, let me know. I'm happy to help if I can. <br/> <span style="font-family:atkinson hyperlegible">― '''[[User:Wauteurz|Wauteurz]]''' <small>([[User talk:Wauteurz|talk]])</small></span> 18:37, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article is good and has been regularly updated. I don't think the renationalisation will require significant changes to the article. There are already nationalised rail companies eg LNER and Scotrail, but there was little difference in the passenger experience when they were nationalised. There will need to be small updates as companies change name etc, but don't expect big changes to fares etc. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:34, 24 March 2025 (UTC) * Thanks for the support. I'll open a thread on the RT in GB discussion, as overhaul of the content would be helpful regardless of the nomination. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 14:32, 28 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''', great idea to draw attention to the 200th anniversary of rail travel. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 17:29, 2 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per others. Great feature choice and there seem to be plenty of people interested in making edits to this article to fix any issues before it is featured. === [[Tagalog phrasebook]] === {{FeatureNom | place=Tagalog phrasebook | blurb=Some Tagalog can come in handy if planning a trip to the Philippines, which isn't the most touristy part of Southeast Asia. | status=Guide | time=Any | DotMImage=[[File:2019-07-08 Tagalog swimming pool rules signs Villa Filomena resort Indang Cavite 0649.jpg|thumb]] | comment=In the beginning of the year, we have traditionally featured one of our many guide phrasebooks. How about this one for some month in early 2026? | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:05, 25 April 2025 (UTC) }} * '''Support, but''' as almost always with phrasebooks, more photos are needed before feature to make it a bit more exciting visually. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:05, 25 April 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' – looks great, except for more photos as you mention. Maybe a bit of verification from a tl speaker would also help. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:03, 25 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Expo 2025]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Osaka Expo | blurb=The Osaka World Expo 2025 is an exhibit of culture and technological advancements of 158 countries, 9 international organizations, and Japanese corporations. Come and enjoy before it ends on October 15. | status=Guide | time=The Expo ends on October 15, so this would need to be featured soon. | DotMImage=[[File:EXPO2025 null2 Appearance.jpg|thumb]] | comment= | nominatedBy=[[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:40, 8 July 2025 (UTC) }} * Because this is a current but limited time event, this is a time-sensitive nomination. These sorts of articles are rarely edited enough before the event ends to be used, but I'm wondering if this one could actually be featured. I can get explanations for the remaining pavilions. I could also probably at least get listings for buildings that hold restaurants. The pavilion that have restaurants already state that in their listings. Could this be featured or is it a waste of time to continue editing? Is it possible to add it as a 4th feature to avoid disrupting the current roster? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:40, 8 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Not yet'''. As much as I feel this expo deserves more exposure and would like to support it, there are some serious gaps in the article, which is currently at ''outline'' status while our standard is for a nominated article to be at least ''guide''. If the article can be expanded, strengthened, and gotten to guide level I would be happy to change my vote to support. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 13:51, 8 July 2025 (UTC) :: I have now completed descriptions for all of the pavilions. It is a "guide" article. Is it good enough to be featured now? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 10:29, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Comment''' – perhaps would it make sense to feature this separately as a "what's on" section and not as an FTT? Rail travel in GB was specifically chosen for the September slot because it marks the 200th anniversary of the first railway. Maybe would it make more sense to feature this in August? When does Expo 2025 start – that would influence my opinion with the timing. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:12, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Not yet''' as we have discouraged articles for one-off events. If we would find consensus that events such as this are viable as articles, with at least one prime example, we could amend [[Wikivoyage:What is an article?]] /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:56, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * [[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]], That's what I was thinking. If it could be an additional feature that didn't disrupt the current roster, it would be easier to feature. [[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]], when you say "not yet", you mean the article itself is invalid and should not exist? I didn't create it, but it's odd that this and Olympics articles are allowed to be created if they are articles that are wholly unwanted... What do you think about SHB's suggestion to feature it as its own thing so it doesn't take another places spot? Or is this something that should be taken to the Pub to get more opinions? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 15:14, 9 July 2025 (UTC) * '''Almost''', but has it come too late? This is the best of the 4 Expo articles which we have had over the years ([[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2005]], [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2010]] and [[Wikivoyage:Past events/Expo 2015]]). Other events that often have articles are the Olympics and football. Today is close to the middle of the 6 month run of the event, so we would have to think of postponing [[Sound of Music]] or [[Gemstones]], as the September slot is taken. Having it as an extra featured article might be better. :The article needs a cropped banner and the text could be improved in places. Some questions spring to mind: When does Expo close in the evening? Is there much variation in the prices of food in different pavilions? Are there restrictions on bringing in food? Are there particular days that are quieter or busier than others? [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 23:02, 9 July 2025 (UTC) ::I have added information about bringing food and drinks. As far as quiet days, price differences, and closing times, what section do you think these should go in? I added information to "Get in", but I'm not sure these should all go there. Reservations are probably also something that should be addressed. Is a subheading in "Understand" the most logical place? [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:47, 10 July 2025 (UTC) jsfpcvvija1ey9wtj8xltxez1pb1h0i 0 68791 5091326 5089916 2025-07-11T10:35:28Z Ypsilon 1806 5091326 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wikivoyage Photomontage banner.jpg}} The '''Discover''' page is an '''archive''' of about strange but true trivia about destinations around the world, '''previously featured''' in the Discover section on the main page. You can contribute and add or edit future facts to the list '''[[Project:Discover|here]]'''. Previously displayed facts from this year are below. You can find older facts from previous years using the [[#Old discoveries|links at the bottom of the page]]. ==July 2025== [[File:Nayiri Palace in Nalerigu.jpg|right|200px]] * It is '''illegal to cross in front of Nayiri Palace''' (''pictured'') '''on a bicycle or motorbike''' in [[Nalerigu]]; doing so will get you fined. * The State Farms Museum in [[Haikou]] focuses on the '''history of Hainan Island's rubber industry'''. * Boullanger Island off the coast of [[Jurien Bay]] is home to the dibbler, a '''rare marsupial mouse'''. [[File:Ruinas do Abarebebe 1.jpg|right|200px]] * The Abarebebê Ruins (''pictured'') in [[Peruíbe]] contain the stone framework of '''Brazil's first church''', built in the 16th century as a school and refuge from Indian attacks. * You can see '''14 locations painted or drawn by Vincent Van Gogh''' at the Van Gogh Village Museum in [[Nuenen]]. [[File:Bankura Terracotta Horses.jpg|right|200px]] * The Bankura Horses (''pictured'') of [[Bankura]] have become a '''national symbol of Indian handicrafts'''. * People '''wore suits and gloves to Pontilac Beach''' in [[Royan]] long ago when it was an exclusive beach for the upper class. * When '''Winston Churchill''' visited the U.S., he requested to visit the Barbara Fritchie House in [[Frederick]] where he '''recited the poem, Barbara Fritchie, from memory'''. [[File:Fin bathroom in Fin garden, Kashan, Iran.jpg|right|200px]] * King Nasereddin Shah had his vizier Amir-Kabir '''murdered in Fin Garden's bathhouse''' (''pictured'') after sending him to [[Kashan]]. * [[Montañita]] is called the "'''Amsterdam of South America'''", for its prolific sales and usage of marijuana. * Since '''Biblical plants grow in a different climate''', the plants in the Rodef Shalom Biblical Botanical Garden in [[Pittsburgh/Oakland|Pittsburgh]] '''must be removed in the cold months and returned in warm months''' to prevent them from dying. <br clear="right" /> ==June 2025== [[File:After_the_Nullarbor_Nymph_-_Sydney_Sculpture_by_the_Sea_2004_-_Life-size_bronze.jpg|right|200px]] * The legend of the '''Nullarbor Nymph''' (''pictured''), a feral woman living naked with a mob of kangaroos deep in [[Australia]]'s [[Nullarbor]], was concocted at the pub in tiny [[Eucla]]. * The '''relief map''' Mapa en Relieve in [[Guatemala City]] depicting Guatemala's precipitous topography is '''so immense you have to view it from an observation tower.''' * The '''lava fields''' of [[Khaybar|Harrat Khaybar]], [[Saudi Arabia]] span '''over 12,000 square kilomters'''. [[File:Roseau, Dominica (32865269555).jpg|right|200px]] * One of the '''best places to see traditional Caribbean vernacular architecture''' is in the French Quarters (''pictured'') of [[Roseau]] in [[Dominica]]. * Although the '''last confirmed Indigenous Australians living in their traditional lifestyle was recorded in the 1980s''', there are still many historic sites and modern Aboriginal communities where you can experience [[Indigenous Australian culture]]. * A kind of a '''modern-day Titanic''', the 1994 sinking of [[MS Estonia]] has spun off documentaries, memorials and conspiracy theories. [[File:Etpison Museum.JPG|right|200px]] * The front of the Etpison Museum (''pictured'') in [[Koror]] features a giant image of the '''spider god''' that is said to have '''taught Palauan women how to give birth'''. * Kässpatzen, which literally '''translates as cheese sparrows''', is a specialty dish of [[Augsburg]] consisting of pasta topped with cheese and caramelized onions ('''no birds'''). * Madison Buffalo Jump State Park in [[Three Forks]] gets its '''name from the cliff that Native Americans used to drive buffalo off''' to use their bodies for food, clothing, and shelter. [[File:RW Ntarama (24) (17072760778).jpg|right|200px]] * The '''clothing of genocide victims are hung in the rafters''' (''pictured'') of the Ntarama Genocide Memorial in [[Nyamata]] as physical reminders of just how many died there. * According to legend, a '''caldera lake-dwelling mermaid drowns any attractive man''' who enters the Laguna de [[Alegría (El Salvador)|Alegría]]. * St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral in [[Vigan]] is a '''Catholic church built with feng-shui'''. [[File:Jebel Jassassiyeh rock carvings.jpg|right|200px]] * Near the Al Jassassiyeh Carvings in [[Al Shamal]], are '''250-year-old cup-shaped depressions''' (''pictured''), thought to have been used to '''hold stones for counting points in an ancient Arabian game'''. * The city of [[Cahul]] '''gets its name from the Battle of Kagul''' fought between Russians and Turks in the 18th century. * The Mexican state of [[Jalisco]] is widely known for the production of [[Tequila]], but few outside Mexico know that it is also home to a similar spirit called '''Raicilla''' [[File:Akicity noradokei.JPG|right|200px]] * The Nora-dokei (''pictured'') in [[Aki]] is a '''clock built for farmers''' to be visible while they worked the fields. * The Monastery of [[Alcobaça]] contains the graves of King Pedro I and his '''dead mistress who he had exhumed and crowned Queen'''. * About '''1/4 of American peanuts''' are grown in [[Dothan]], [[Alabama]]. [[File:Iki 03.jpg|right|200px]] * At 28 feet tall, Kal Bhairab Temple in [[Brahmanbaria]] is home to the '''world's largest statue of Shiva''' (''pictured'') * The '''only place in the world where Macedonian grayling butterflies exist''' is in Pletvar, just outside the city of [[Prilep]]. * [[Dalkey|Dalkey Island]] was used by Vikings as an Irish slave market. It is said that '''40% of Iceland's population were Irish slaves''' with many likely being bought here. [[File:Church of Debra Berhan Selassie - Wall.jpg|right|200px]] * The '''12 defense towers''' (''one pictured'') that surround Debre Birhan Selassie Church in [[Gondar]] '''represent the 12 apostles''' of Jesus. * The Greek theatre in [[Poros]] offers the '''rare opportunity to watch Greek plays in the open-air''' just like in the past. * [[Chira Island]] contains the '''most intact biodiversity of tropical dry forest flora''' in Costa Rica. [[File:Amphitheatre Drakensberg View.jpg|right|200px]] * Translating as the '''"mountains of the dragon"''', the [[Ukhahlamba Drakensberg|Drakensberg]] mountain range was '''formed by a lava flow''' (''landscape pictured''). * St. Peter's Catholic Church in [[Jaffa]] used to also serve as a '''hostel''', with '''Napoleon among the guests'''. * A remote coal mining town, the name [[Karaganda]] derives from Caragana bushes but became a '''wry pun in Russian''' for "where the hell?", ie. the middle of nowhere. [[File:Hundertwasserbahnhof-Uelzen.jpg|right|200px]] * The Hundertwasserbahnhof (''pictured'') in [[Uelzen]] was renovated for Expo 2000 to an '''unusual and strikingly coloured design''' by Austrian artist and architect, Friedensreich Hundertwasser. * [[Corydon]] is known as the '''first state capital''' of Indiana. * An old image of the town of [[Huacachina]] is '''featured on a version of Peru's 50 soles bill'''. <br clear="right" /> ==May 2025== [[File:Wine grapes nearing harvest in Ontario-also example of trellis wire.jpg|right|200px]] * The '''[[Wine regions of Ontario]]''' (''grapes at Niagara Peninsula pictured'') are at the same latitude as Bordeaux, northern Italy and Oregon, and its grape-growing season is comparable to those. * [[Winter swimming]] or ice swimming is a '''daredevil activity during the cold season''', seen as a test of virility, a part of '''survival''' or '''rescue training''' or – as weird it may seem – a way to '''relax'''. * In [[Port Lincoln]] you can '''swim with tuna''' in enclosures. [[File:Kanchanaburi cemetery.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Kanchanaburi]] War Cemetery (''pictured'') is the final resting place of 6,982 POWs who '''gave their lives for the construction of the Death Railway''' to Burma. * [[Kolkata]]'s history is intimately related to the '''British East India Company''', which arrived in 1690. * Magheraghanrush is a '''court tomb''' outside [[Sligo]] dating from about 3000 BC, and from above it's '''in the shape of a man'''. [[File:KingsHighwayClydeMntn20050627.JPG|right|200px]] * To drive the [[Kings Highway]] (''view along the road pictured''), you need ability to handle '''windy roads''' and a decent car that handles windy roads. * [[Iznik]] was once known as Nicaea, and an '''important place in the history of Christianity''' as the First Ecumenical Council took place here in 325 AD. * [[Kluane National Park]] features '''Mount Logan''', at 5,959 metres or 19,551 feet above sea level, the '''highest mountain in Canada'''. [[File:Nagaragawa ukai 02.jpg|right|200px]] * Ukai or '''nighttime cormorant fishing''' (''pictured'') is a [[Gifu]] tradition that has continued uninterrupted for 1300 years. * Hilton Village in [[Newport News]] is recognized as the '''United States' first Federal war-housing project''', and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. * In the [[Madrid/Northern Suburbs|northern suburbs of Madrid]], you can find the '''home stadia of Real and Atlético''', two of Spain's most successful football (soccer) teams. [[File:Ometepe.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Isla de Ometepe]] (''pictured'') is '''composed of twin volcanoes''' in the middle of Lago de Nicaragua. * Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art in [[Winter Park (Florida)|Winter Park, Florida]] houses the world's most comprehensive collection of the '''works of Louis Comfort Tiffany'''. * On the Silk Road [[Gansu]] '''marked the end or beginning of China proper''' depending upon if you were traveling east towards Xi'an or west towards Central Asia and Europe. [[File:CataniaTheater.JPG|right|200px]] * [[Catania]] has a '''history dating back 2,700 years''', dominated by several different cultures - Greeks, Romans (''ruins of Roman theater pictured''), Arabs, Normans, Spanish, etc. - and was '''a rich commercial centre''', mainly due to its port. * In [[Birštonas]], '''mineral water''' can be '''slurped for free''' at town drinking fountains or bought in commercial bottled drinks. * The bay next to [[Pemba]] is a great destination for '''professional and novice marine photographers alike''', with many species in warm and calm waters. [[File:Helsingborg-arch.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Helsingborg]] Castle- or what's left of it - overlooks the harbour, with '''archways over the steps leading down to the city center''' (''pictured''). * Like in the French capital, in [[Paris (Arkansas)|Paris, Arkansas]] there's also an '''Eiffel Tower''', though definitely not as tall as the real thing. * A popular myth explaining the name [[Bengaluru]] is that it originated from Benda Kaalu Uru - '''"Town of Boiled Beans"'''. [[File:Andrew McCutchen at-bat 2017 (34985040992).jpg|right|200px]] * In '''almost any place in the U.S.''', there will be a '''[[Baseball in the United States|baseball game]]''' (''gameplay pictured'') going on during the spring and summer months. * Although [[Bikol]] is pronounced as it is spelled, stress is very unpredictable and '''stressing the wrong syllable can lead to misinterpretation.''' * A '''100-m cliff''' runs along the entire bayshore of [[Salvador]], '''dividing the city''' into Cidade Alta, up on the cliff, and the Cidade Baixa down by the bay. [[File:HukouWaterfall3.jpg|right|200px]] * The Hukou Waterfall (''pictured'') in [[Huanghe Hukou Pubu National Park]] is called "the '''only yellow waterfall in the world'''." * The tallest building in Mali, the BCEAO Tower in [[Bamako]], has features '''reminiscent of the Sudan-Sahelian architecture''' of mosques in Djenne and Timbuktu. * Around the state of Victoria there are many sites related to the '''19th century outlaw [[Ned Kelly tourism|Ned Kelly]]'''. [[File:DE-Papenbg-meyer-halle-02.jpg|right|200px]] * In [[Papenburg]] you can visit Meyer Werft (''assembly hall pictured''), one of the '''largest shipyards''' in the world. * Montevideo's '''coastal promenade [[Along the Rambla of Montevideo|La Rambla]]''' is a popular place among locals for a range of activities. * [[Kansas City]] is reputed to have '''more boulevards than Paris''' and '''more fountains''' than any other city in the world '''except for Rome'''. [[File:Tsurunoyu_Onsen_01.jpg|right|200px]] * The Japanese hot spring town of [[Semboku/Nyuto_Onsen|Nyuto]] (''pictured''), literally '''Nipple''', has milky white waters but is actually named after a nearby perky mountain peak. <br clear="right" /> ==April 2025== * [[Reykjavík]] has a '''very eclectic building style''', which is mainly the result of bad (or no) planning. * The trolleybus in [[Murmansk]] is the '''northernmost trolleybus system in the world'''. [[File:Pudu puda 04.jpg|right|200px]] * Pudu deer (''pictured'') are the '''smallest deer in the world'''. They thrive in Argentina's [[Lago Puelo National Park]]. * Part of [[Villach]]'s historic '''Landskron Castle contains a falconry'''. At certain times a day, the birds are brought out for flying demonstrations around the castle. * Morgan Lewis Windmill in [[Central Eastern Barbados|Barbados]] and Betty's Hope Mill in [[Antigua]] are the '''only functioning sugar windmills in the world'''. [[File:Fukiya06s3200.jpg|right|200px]] * The '''unique burnt orange-colored buildings''' (''pictured'') in [[Takahashi]]'s Fukiya Historic District get their color from the '''iron-oxide ''bengara'' pigment'''. * The '''12th century''' Kaman Monastery in [[Sukhumi]] was '''revived over 800 years later''' in 2001 as an active monastery. * The water in [[Bacalar|Lake Bacalar]] is odorless, but when you wade in it, a '''sulfuric stench seeps out of the sand'''. [[File:GR-santorini-akrotiri-ausgrab-c.jpg|right|200px]] * '''Thanks to a volcanic eruption''' in 17&nbsp;BC, [[Akrotiri]] has '''well-preserved Bronze Age ruins''' (''pictured''), including paintings and pottery. * The lintel on Prasat Si Khoraphum in [[Surin]] '''depicting the Dancing of Shiva''' is said to be the '''most beautiful in all of Thailand and Cambodia'''. * In order to '''protect the flora and fauna''', the town outside [[Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park]] '''purposefully lacks infrastructure''' like asphalt and outdoor lighting. [[File:THE COAL HOUSE - BUILT WITH 30 TONS OF WEST VIRGINIA ANTHRACITE COAL - IN WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS' EAST END, ON US-60 NEAR ENTRANCE TO INTERSTATE 64.jpg|right|200px]] * Two of the three '''houses made of coal''' (''pictured'') in West Virginia are located in [[White Sulphur Springs (West Virginia)|White Sulphur Springs]]. * The ubiquitous '''Jalapeño pepper''' was first cultivated in [[Xalapa]], which lends its name to the spicy Chile. * Once the world's '''highest capacity football venue''', Estádio do Maracanã in [[Rio de Janeiro/Zona Norte|northern Rio de Janeiro]] was able to hold nearly '''200,000 people'''. [[File:Fushimi Inari Fox.jpg|right|200px]] * Dedicated to Inari, the Japanese fox goddess, '''countless stone foxes''' (''pictured'') can be seen at the Fushimi Inari Taisha site in [[Kyoto/South|South Kyoto]]. * The municipal borders of [[Vaduz]] are a '''delight of European feudalism run amok'''. * The Sou Raja in [[Palu]] is not just the city's '''oldest traditional house''' but also a former '''royal residence'''. [[File:Old Bank, Bastimento, Panama - panoramio (10).jpg|right|200px]] * Old Bank (''pictured'') is the '''only settlement on [[Bastimentos]]''', the island with surroundings make up a '''protected natural area.''' * In [[Hoboken]] you can visit the '''site of Frank Sinatra's birthplace''', though it's nowadays just a marker in the sidewalk. * The '''[[Vikings and the Old Norse|Norse settlements]] on Greenland''' had at its peak around 5,000 citizens, and their own bishop. [[File:Unite d'Habitation, Marseille.jpg|right|200px]] * In 2016, [[Le Corbusier World Heritage|17 buildings around the world]] (''Unite d'Habitation pictured'') by Swiss-French architect '''Le Corbusier''' were listed as a world heritage site. * The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Natural History Museum in [[Xining]] is said to be one of the '''largest natural history museums in China'''. * There are only '''two options to stay inside the [[Iguaçu Falls]] park''' within walking distance of the falls, one on the Argentinian and one on the Brazilian side. [[File:Map of Czech railways.svg|right|200px]] * The '''[[Rail travel in the Czech Republic|Czech rail network]]''' is one of the '''densest''' (''network map pictured'') in the world. * Hiking to the '''summit of Mount Takao''' in [[Hachioji]] gives a little taste of '''nature''' in Tokyo. * [[Goondiwindi]] derives from the Aboriginal word '''"resting place of the birds"'''. [[File:The Walper Hotel.jpg|right|200px]] * '''Guests''' at the historical Walper Hotel (''pictured'') in [[Kitchener]] include '''Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, Eleanor Roosevelt, Bob Hope, and Louis Armstrong.''' * The '''script''' of choice for written [[Kurdish]] differs according to the country. * '''Eritrea's currency''' is named after the town of [[Nakfa]]. <br clear="right" /> ==March 2025== [[File:Sue, Field Museum of Natural History.JPG|right|200px]] * A highlight of the Field Museum of Natural History in [[Chicago/Near South|Chicago]] is Sue (''pictured''), the '''largest Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton''' in the world. * The [[Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth]] was known for '''religious tolerance, ethnic diversity, and parliamentary rule'''. * In [[Barcelona]] you can try a '''"café con hielo"''' - espresso served with a glass of ice cubes on the side. [[File:Coolgardie.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Coolgardie]] (''pictured'') was the '''first major gold rush town''' in Western Australia. * The [[Creston]] area produces the '''largest cherries grown in the Northern Hemisphere''' and exports them globally. * [[Pakbeng]] is in the Golden Triangle, and visitors will be offered '''different drugs''' despite it being illegal there. [[File:ConisbroughCastle2.jpg|right|200px]] * Conisbrough Castle (''keep pictured'') in [[Doncaster]] was paradoxically '''preserved by being ruined'''. * In [[Surat Thani]] you can visit a '''monkey training college'''. * Nike Art Gallery in [[Eti-Osa]] is a great place to experience '''Nigerian traditional and non-traditional art'''. [[File:Lane of North Kolkata (5262472804).jpg|right|200px]] * The '''oldest part''' of Kolkata, [[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]] is a fascinating district dominated by '''narrow little lanes''' (''pictured'') and hundreds of century-old buildings. * Highlights of the Minneopa State Park near [[Mankato]] include a '''waterfall''' and a '''bison herd'''. * In addition to the [[Money#Exchange rates|exchange rates]] at an exchange counter, also '''note all the fees charged''' for any transaction. [[File:Jimei - Kah Kee Park - DSCF9274.JPG|right|200px]] * Jiageng Park, also known as Kah Kee Park (''pictured'') in [[Jimei]] was '''created in memory of Tan Kah Kee''' (Chen Jiageng), a rubber baron who made an enormous fortune in Malaya. * Held each May, the Anime Central in [[Rosemont]] is one of the '''largest anime conventions''' in the USA. * Although a '''desert country''', [[Bahrain]] boasts an international 18-hole grass '''golf course'''. [[File:Cathedral Ridge Passu NEFrontier Pakistan.jpg|right|200px]] * Due to its '''high elevation and the difficult conditions''' in which the [[Karakoram Highway]] (''view from the road pictured'') was constructed, it has also been called the '''"Eighth Wonder of the World"'''. * [[Butaritari]] is known as the '''first island to have battles''' between Japanese and US forces during World War II. * The [[Kawarthas|Kawartha Lakes]] region indeed '''contains hundreds of lakes and rivers''', and offers some of Ontario's best sport and recreational '''fishing'''. [[File:Birr Observatory telescope - geograph.org.uk - 257854.jpg|right|200px]] * The '''Leviathan telescope''' (''pictured'') at [[Birr]] Castle was once the largest in the world. * [[Haitian Creole]] pronunciation is very '''phonetic''', unlike French, the language it's based on. * [[Tiritiri Matangi Island]] is one of only two '''scientific reserves''' in New Zealand that are '''open to the public'''. [[File:VQuime.jpg|right|200px]] * The name of the town of [[Quime]] (''pictured'') comes from the Quechua word for '''"Place to Rest"''' . * The [[Natural Bridge State Park]] is centered on the amazing, 78-ft-long, 65-ft-high, '''natural stone bridge''' that formed over millions of years. * The elephants in [[Addo Elephant National Park]] are '''addicted to citrus fruits''', so for your own safety you shouldn't carry any into the park, even in your car. [[File:Bøyabreen - Fjærland.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Jostedalsbreen]] is the '''largest glacier on the European mainland''' (''Bøyabreen arm pictured''). * [[Belgaum]] got its name from Venugrama, meaning '''"bamboo village"'''. * The Great Blacks in Wax Museum in [[Baltimore/East Baltimore|East Baltimore]] showcases the '''history of African Americans''' through wax figures. [[File:Menara as.jpg|right|200px]] * The [[Alor Setar]] Tower (''pictured'') signifies the '''rapid development''' in the state of Kedah, and functions as both a telecommunications tower and a tourist attraction. * [[Mexico City/Polanco|Polanco]]'s Soumaya Museum holds the largest collection of '''Auguste Rodin''' [[Sculptures|sculptures]] outside France. * At the [[Quanzhou]] Maritime Museum you can explore the city's heyday as '''one of China's greatest trading cities and a major base for her powerful fleets.''' [[File:Lake Anosy, Central Antananarivo, Capital of Madagascar, Photo by Sascha Grabow.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Antananarivo]] (''pictured'') translates to '''"city of the thousand"'''. <br clear="right" /> ==February 2025== * [[Landgraaf]] is famous for hosting Pinkpop each June, said to be the '''longest running pop festival''' in the world. * The Art Museum of [[Craiova]] is located in the '''sumptuous palace''' of the former magnate Jean Mihail. [[File:LafayetteEsso.jpg|right|200px]] * The '''original Standard Oil station''' (''pictured'') in [[Lafayette_(Indiana)|Lafayette, Indiana]] one of a few left, is a walk-by museum. * '''Agrotourism''' is one of the biggest draws of the region around [[Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu]], boasting orchards and cider-houses, vineyards and wineries, and maple sugar shacks (sucreries). * The [[Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park]] is one of the last areas where the '''yellow-footed rock kangaroo''' can still be commonly found. [[File:Orenburg Ural bridge frontview.jpg|right|200px]] * The bridge across the Ural river (''pictured'') in [[Orenburg]] is also a '''bridge between Europe and Asia.''' * [[Oegstgeest]] is one of the '''first ever settled parts of the Dutch coast''' that we know of today. * [[Persian]] was once the '''official, court, or literary language''' of many places ranging from Turkey through India. [[File:Casino funchal hg.jpg|right|200px]] * The Madeira Casino (''pictured'') in [[Funchal]] was '''designed by Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer''', and indeed looks a bit like '''[[Brasilia]] Cathedral with a haircut'''. * Getting to Ao Manao beach outside [[Prachuap Khiri Khan]], '''entails travel through a military area'''. * [[Närpes]] is known as the '''tomato capital of Finland'''. [[File:Mount Vernon, (Virginia).jpg|right|200px]] * The main attraction in [[Mount Vernon (Virginia)|Mount Vernon, Virginia]] is '''George Washington's estate''' (''pictured'') and gardens including his grave. * The National Museum of Slavery in [[Luanda]] is housed in Capa de Casa Grande, which is where they '''baptized slaves prior to sending them off to the Americas.''' * [[Aurangabad]] is famous for its '''historic gates''', with 15 of the original 52 still standing. [[File:020 N700 Series Shinkansen 新幹線 arriving at Kyoto Station, Japan.jpg|right|200px]] * Visitors are usually astounded to find that [[Rail travel in Japan|Japanese trains]] (''Shinkansen train pictured'') '''follow the published schedule to the second.''' * Taking place each April, the '''[[Liège]]–Bastogne–Liège cycle race''' is one of the oldest and most arduous of the pro-cycling spring classics. * With a population of a little over 3,000, nearly '''half of those along the southern coastline of Greenland live in [[Qaqortoq]]'''. [[File:GilfKebir1.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Gilf Kebir National Park]] (''landscape pictured'') is one of the '''largest and most remote national parks''' in Egypt. * The '''Rusty Nail Winery''' in [[Sulphur (Oklahoma)|Sulphur, Oklahoma]] is named so because it's housed in a former hardware store. * '''Travelling slowly''' can [[budget travel|reduce travel costs]]. [[File:Victoria Memorial, Allahabad 2.jpg|right|200px]] * The Victoria Memorial (''pictured'') in [[Prayagraj]] is not a memorial but a canopy, which '''once housed the imposing marble statue of Queen Victoria.''' * What sets Europe apart in [[Association football in Europe|footballing]] terms from the rest of the world is the '''sheer quality of the domestic leagues.''' * At the '''Thunderbird Crafts Trading Post''' near [[Ipperwash Beach]] you can buy Native American craft and books where you can learn to make crafts yourself. [[File:Mafra May 2013-2.jpg|right|200px]] * The National Palace of [[Mafra]] (''pictured'') is probably the '''most striking Baroque monument''' to be found in Portugal. * '''Wild three-toed sloths''' can be seen anywhere in the [[Bocas del Toro]] archipelago if you're lucky. * [[Whiskey]]-making has '''spread around the world''' with the Scottish and Irish diasporas. [[File:MAG Marker Brick.jpg|right|200px]] * There are many '''sights related to the Second Indochina War''' around [[Phonsavan]] - both memorials and actual remains (''border marker for a de-mined area pictured''). * The Grand Mosque of [[Dubai/Bur Dubai|Bur Dubai]] is quite close to a Hindu temple and one can see '''followers of both Islam and Hinduism gathering at the same place for prayers.''' <br clear="right" /> ==January 2025== * '''High-risk locations for encountering [[pests]]''' include low-income urban neighbourhoods, tropical regions, wetlands, stagnant bodies of water, and high vegetation. [[File:Japanese garden Wroclaw bridge.jpg|right|200px]] * The Japanese Garden (''pictured'') in [[Wrocław]] is '''remainder from the World Expo of 1913'''. * At Taman Wisata Hutan Kera in [[Bandar Lampung]] you can '''hang out with monkeys and let them raid your belongings''' if you don't bring food. * [[Chiclayo]] is one of the '''liveliest cities''' in northern Peru. [[File:Mourne Wall 02.jpg|right|200px]] * The Mourne Wall (''pictured'') '''crosses 15 summits''' of the [[Mourne Mountains]]. * The '''Holy Week processions''' in [[Málaga]] are known to have occurred for at least 500 years, and are among the oldest in Spain. * Because of its large waves, Playa Hermosa near [[Jacó]] is considered one of the '''best surfing locations''' in the world but also '''extremely dangerous'''. [[File:LightTunnelDetroit.jpg|right|200px]] * The Light Tunnel (''pictured'') connecting concourses A and B/C at [[Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport]] puts on a '''light and sound show''' for pedestrians. * As a British base, [[Horn Island]] in the Torres Strait saw battle during WWII, and the local The Torres Strait Heritage Museum and Art Gallery features '''extensive war collections.''' * Sandervalia National Museum in [[Conakry]] is the '''national museum of Guinea''', with a collection of masks and fetishes and a range of art. [[File:A6 王朗自然保护区 liuzusai - panoramio.jpg|right|200px]] * Home to a range of wild animals, Wanglang National Nature Reserve (''landscape pictured'') outside [[Mianyang]] is regarded as '''one of the best ecological areas in China.''' * [[Arriving in a new city]] can be the '''hardest part''' of a trip. * Founded in 1878, [[Petah Tikva]] means "opening of hope", and was one of '''modern Israel's first agricultural settlements''' at the beginning of the Zionist movement. [[File:Hvar fortress.jpg|right|200px]] * At [[Hvar]], '''imposing fortifications''' (''pictured'') hover above the fluid blend of grey stone and orange cascading roofs. * [[Cuba (New York)|Cuba]] Cheese Museum educates visitors on the '''history of cheesemaking''' in western New York state. * The shrines of [[Ise]] are '''famously dismantled and rebuilt''' to exacting specifications every 20 years. [[File:St. Vincent, Karibik - Botanical Garden of Kingstown - panoramio.jpg|right|200px]] * The '''Botanic Gardens Saint Vincent''' (''pictured'') in [[Kingstown]] were established in 1765, making them the '''oldest botanic gardens in the Western Hemisphere and in the tropics'''. * The '''Sigulda Walking Sticks''' have been popular local souvenirs in [[Sigulda]] for hundreds of years. * It is said that when a child at Manickamangalam Temple in [[Kalady]] cried after noticing his milk offering was still there, '''the goddess Devi drank it''' out of pity. [[File:Shirakawa-go 002.jpg|right|200px]] * The view of [[Shirakawa-go]] from the Shiroyama Viewpoint during the Winter Light-up (''pictured'') is considered to be one of '''Japan's most iconic winter views'''. * The '''Dhow Shipyard''' in [[Muharraq]] is '''one of the few remaining''' places where '''dhows are still built by hand'''. * Back in the day, [[Ouarzazate]] was a '''crossing point for African traders''' seeking to reach northern cities in Morocco and Europe. [[File:Preston bus station.jpg|right|200px]] * [[Preston]] bus station (''closeup pictured'') is a '''concrete Brutalist creation of 1968''', refurbished in 2019. * Cemue is a '''local drink''' of [[Ngawi (town)|Ngawi]], made with coconut milk, ginger, lemongrass, coconut flesh, white bread, and peanut. * [[Concepción (Paraguay)|Concepción, Paraguay]], is distinguished by the '''beauty of its public buildings and aristocratic residences'''. [[File:Backflip at Fourteen Falls.jpg|right|200px]] * The 14 Falls (''pictured'') outside [[Nairobi]] is made up of '''14 small streams that merge to form the big waterfall''' at the foot of the Kilima Mbogo Hills. * At the [[Comox]] Air Force Museum and Heritage Air Park you can see '''the planes that made the RCAF great.''' * [[Tulu phrasebook|Tulu]] '''does not have a widely used script''', though efforts are on to discover or construct one. Most writing in the language is in the Kannada script. [[File:Leon-Casa-Botines-Back.jpg|right|200px]] * Casa Botines (''pictured'') in [[León (Spain)|León]] is '''one of the few buildings by Antoni Gaudí''' outside Barcelona. * The region around [[Glen Innes]] is known as '''"The Land of The Beardies"''', after two 19th century livestock workers with long beards. * Almost half of the plant species in [[Springbok]] are '''found nowhere else in the world'''. <br clear="right" /> ==Old discoveries== *[[Project:Discover/2024|2024]] *[[Project:Discover/2023|2023]] *[[Project:Discover/2022|2022]] *[[Project:Discover/2021|2021]] *[[Project:Discover/2020|2020]] *[[Project:Discover/2019|2019]] *[[Project:Discover/2018|2018]] *[[Project:Discover/2017|2017]] *[[Project:Discover/2016|2016]] *[[Project:Discover/2015|2015]] *[[Project:Discover/2014|2014]] *[[Project:Discover/2013|2013]] *[[Project:Discover/2012|2012]] *[[Project:Discover/2011|2011]] *[[Project:Discover/2010|2010]] *[[Project:Discover/2009|2009]] *[[Project:Discover/2008|2008]] *[[Project:Discover/2007|2007]] {{Title-Index page}} bt937665rifpgssz6to62ymakpytkjv 4 69175 5090838 5088776 2025-07-10T13:45:01Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Policy planning and proposals */ 5090838 wikitext text/x-wiki {| style="background: #f4f7fa; border: 1px solid #abc; text-align: center; padding-left: .3em; margin-bottom: 1.5em;" |- | style="text-align:left;"| <div style="text-align:center; font-size:300%; line-height: 1; padding: 10px; color:#454442;">'''Requests for Comment'''</div> {{shortcut|[[wv:rfc]]}} This page allows you to ask other [[wikivoyage:Wikivoyagers|Wikivoyagers]] to contribute to a discussion, including policy/style pages, and article content. You may want some feedback, more opinions, or just some help in reaching a [[consensus]]. * '''Don't start conversations here'''. Direct Wikivoyagers' attention to a discussion going on elsewhere. * Please put new items at the '''top of the relevant section'''. * '''Please sign your request''' with four tildes (<nowiki>~~~~</nowiki>). Requests pointing to discussions that have gone dormant for over '''two months''' may be removed from this page. Otherwise, the original contributor may remove a request when satisfied. (Please remember to do this, in order to keep the page current!) |} __TOC__ {{clear}} ==Policy planning and proposals== <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. AFTER THIS COMMENT--> * '''[[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy#Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles]]''' – allow abandoned stubs to be speedily deleted if abandoned for over 7 days. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:44, 10 July 2025 (UTC) * '''[[Wikivoyage talk:Naming conventions#Disambiguators for Mexican destinations]]''' – whether to use the country or state name for Mexican disambiguators. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:25, 19 June 2025 (UTC) * '''[[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]]''' - Is there any case in which a promotional user page should be made ineligible for speedy deletion? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:21, 18 April 2025 (UTC) ==Glitches and bugs== <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. AFTER THIS COMMENT--> ==User rights and issues== <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. AFTER THIS COMMENT--> ==Templates== <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. AFTER THIS COMMENT--> ==Articles and travel content== <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THIS COMMENT--> *'''[[Talk:Saddlebrooke]]''' - page move from user space? *'''[[Talk:Go#Does_anyone_know_about_Korean_baduk?]]''' *'''[[Talk:Bangalore#Bangalore to Bengaluru]]''' — a proposal to rename the article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:20, 31 May 2025 (UTC) * '''[[Wikivoyage talk:Tips for new contributors#Reorganize]]''' <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THIS SECTION, NOT HERE--> === Banner discussions === :''This section is for listing discussions about changing a banner. For discussions about adding a new banner where none exist, please see [[Wikivoyage:Banner suggestions]].'' <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THIS COMMENT--> === District discussions === Put [[:Category:Articles with districts discussion]] on your watchlist to have new entries show up there. <categorytree mode=pages>Articles with districts discussion</categorytree> === Region discussions === Put [[:Category:Articles with regions discussion]] on your watchlist to have new entries show up there. <categorytree mode=pages>Articles with regions discussion</categorytree> === Merge discussions === <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THIS COMMENT--> Put [[:Category:Articles to be merged]] on your watchlist to have new entries show up there. <categorytree mode=pages>Articles to be merged</categorytree> sdyx714w7k8uwo2gehvaqefz5qwgdko 5090885 5090838 2025-07-10T14:54:28Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Articles and travel content */ completed 5090885 wikitext text/x-wiki {| style="background: #f4f7fa; border: 1px solid #abc; text-align: center; padding-left: .3em; margin-bottom: 1.5em;" |- | style="text-align:left;"| <div style="text-align:center; font-size:300%; line-height: 1; padding: 10px; color:#454442;">'''Requests for Comment'''</div> {{shortcut|[[wv:rfc]]}} This page allows you to ask other [[wikivoyage:Wikivoyagers|Wikivoyagers]] to contribute to a discussion, including policy/style pages, and article content. You may want some feedback, more opinions, or just some help in reaching a [[consensus]]. * '''Don't start conversations here'''. Direct Wikivoyagers' attention to a discussion going on elsewhere. * Please put new items at the '''top of the relevant section'''. * '''Please sign your request''' with four tildes (<nowiki>~~~~</nowiki>). Requests pointing to discussions that have gone dormant for over '''two months''' may be removed from this page. Otherwise, the original contributor may remove a request when satisfied. (Please remember to do this, in order to keep the page current!) |} __TOC__ {{clear}} ==Policy planning and proposals== <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. AFTER THIS COMMENT--> * '''[[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy#Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles]]''' – allow abandoned stubs to be speedily deleted if abandoned for over 7 days. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:44, 10 July 2025 (UTC) * '''[[Wikivoyage talk:Naming conventions#Disambiguators for Mexican destinations]]''' – whether to use the country or state name for Mexican disambiguators. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:25, 19 June 2025 (UTC) * '''[[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]]''' - Is there any case in which a promotional user page should be made ineligible for speedy deletion? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:21, 18 April 2025 (UTC) ==Glitches and bugs== <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. AFTER THIS COMMENT--> ==User rights and issues== <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. AFTER THIS COMMENT--> ==Templates== <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. AFTER THIS COMMENT--> ==Articles and travel content== <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THIS COMMENT--> *'''[[Talk:Saddlebrooke]]''' - page move from user space? *'''[[Talk:Go#Does_anyone_know_about_Korean_baduk?]]''' *'''[[Talk:Bangalore#Bangalore to Bengaluru]]''' — a proposal to rename the article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:20, 31 May 2025 (UTC) <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THIS SECTION, NOT HERE--> === Banner discussions === :''This section is for listing discussions about changing a banner. For discussions about adding a new banner where none exist, please see [[Wikivoyage:Banner suggestions]].'' <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THIS COMMENT--> === District discussions === Put [[:Category:Articles with districts discussion]] on your watchlist to have new entries show up there. <categorytree mode=pages>Articles with districts discussion</categorytree> === Region discussions === Put [[:Category:Articles with regions discussion]] on your watchlist to have new entries show up there. <categorytree mode=pages>Articles with regions discussion</categorytree> === Merge discussions === <!--PLEASE PLACE NEW REQUESTS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST, I.E. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THIS COMMENT--> Put [[:Category:Articles to be merged]] on your watchlist to have new entries show up there. <categorytree mode=pages>Articles to be merged</categorytree> 58p4yoonjhx7tb7k0814kfbuxget3dp 4 69268 5091094 5090670 2025-07-11T00:19:15Z SHB2000 2248002 /* FYI: Planning a Trip? AI Will Do That For You */ archived 5091094 wikitext text/x-wiki <div style="text-align:left; background: var( --wv-optional-color, #f4f7fa); color: var( --color-base ); border: 1px solid #abc; padding: .3em; margin-bottom: 1.5em"> <div style="text-align:center; font-size:300%; line-height: 1; padding: 10px;">'''Welcome to the pub'''</div> {{shortcut|[[WV:Pub]]|[[WV:TP]]}} [[File:QA_icon_clr.svg|right|frameless|150px|link=]] The travellers' pub is for general discussion on Wikivoyage, and the place to ask questions when you're confused, lost, afraid, tired, annoyed, thoughtful, or helpful. To start a new topic, click the "Add topic" tab, so that it gets added '''at the bottom''' of the page, and sign your post by appending four tildes (<nowiki>~~~~</nowiki>) Before asking a question or making a comment: * Have a look at our [[Wikivoyage:Help|Help]], [[Wikivoyage:FAQ|FAQ]] and [[Wikivoyage:Policies|Policies]] pages. * If you are a '''new user''' and you have any questions about using the website, try the [[Wikivoyage:Arrivals lounge|Arrivals lounge]]. * If you have a '''question or suggestion about a particular article''', use the article's [[Project:using talk pages|talk page]] to keep the discussion associated with that article. * If you'd like to '''draw attention to a comment''' to '''get feedback''' from other Wikivoyagers, try [[Wikivoyage:Requests for comment|Requests for comment]]. * If you are '''wanting travel advice on a specific matter''' see the [[Wikivoyage:Tourist office|tourist office]]. * If you have an '''issue you need to bring to the attention of an administrator''', try [[Wikivoyage:Ongoing vandalism|Ongoing vandalism]]. * If you are having a '''problem that you think has to do with the [[mw:|MediaWiki software]]''', please post that on [[phab:|Phabricator]] instead. * If you want to '''celebrate a significant contribution''' to Wikivoyage by yourself or others, hold a party at [[Project:Celebrate a contribution|Celebrate a contribution]]. * Discuss '''issues related to more than one language version''' of Wikivoyage in the [[meta:Wikivoyage/Lounge|Wikivoyage Lounge]] on Meta. * Anything that is '''Nigeria-related''' is now meant to go in the [[Wikivoyage:Nigeria café|Nigeria café]] instead. Anything that is '''Kosovo or Albania related''' is now meant to go in the [[Wikivoyage:Kosovo and Albania cafe|Kosovo and Albania café]] instead. This includes announcements, initiatives, celebrations, and issues with certain articles. You can review old Pub discussions in the [[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub/Archives]]. '''Pull up a chair and join in the conversation!''' [{{fullurl:Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub|action=edit&section=new}} '''Click here to start a new thread'''] </div> {{WikivoyageDoc|collaboration}} <!-- Discussions start here --> __TOC__ __NEWSECTIONLINK__ == Tourist office problem == I tried to ask a question in the [[Wikivoyage:Tourist office]], and I replied to it with another question, but I can't see any of it except in edit mode and don't understand why. I used the form on that page to ask the first question. What I want to know is which side of the train to sit on for Amtrak trips between Montreal and Plattsburgh, NY and between Plattsburgh and Saratoga Springs, even if the answers come too late for me to use them. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:24, 30 May 2025 (UTC) :When you click "Ready? Ask a new question!", should the form on the next page require the "Subject:" field to not be empty? Or at least have a placeholder subject text? :I also see someone else's question about Cancun that got ignored, because it's tacked on the end of the previous section. [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 20:42, 1 June 2025 (UTC) ::I guess the problem is that I didn't see the subject field in my mobile phone interface. Is there a way to improve that? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:58, 1 June 2025 (UTC) :::It looks like you can set a default subject value with the InputBox 'default=' parameter. Maybe give it something like "Question from ~~<noinclude></noinclude>~"? I'm not sure how to change the "Subject:" label styling. :::Should the Tourist Office behave more like a Talk page, with an Add Topic button leading to a visual editor? [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 23:44, 2 June 2025 (UTC) ::::I'd support that. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:48, 2 June 2025 (UTC) :::::[https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:DiscussionTools It looks like adding a "NEWSECTIONLINK" line is the magic to enable the visual editor on a page.] [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Extension:InputBox There's also a usedt=true parameter to InputBox to make it use the visual editor by default.] :::::It seems to work in this sandbox I set up: [[User:Gerode/Tourist_office_sandbox]] [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 17:48, 5 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::I went ahead and applied these two changes. Let me know if I broke anything, or if there's anything else odd about the Tourist office. [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 16:22, 9 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::I noticed the preloaded "Asked by ~~" blurb was made redundant by these changes and is no longer working correctly, so I removed the preload. [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] ([[User talk:Gerode|talk]]) 19:02, 6 July 2025 (UTC) == Improving this project with little to no knowledge of English == It's been a while since I've posted anything major on the pub, but one of the things I'm quite pleased with the way we do things here is the fact that we are ''very'' open and accommodating to users who can't speak or speak English with a large length of difficulty. We don't have any policies forcing the use of English in discussions and if someone has shown a genuine interest in the project, it isn't unorthodox for someone to go out of their way and respond in another language they know on this site. It comes back to when {{ping|Andyrom75}} told me on itwikivoyage (around when itwikivoyage hit 10k articles, iirc) that it's possible to contribute to Wikivoyage without really knowing the language – and it's true. Most of my activity on itwikivoyage has since been doing minor fixes, adding listings with no description (since you don't need to know the language to add listings, opening hours, urls, address and such), removing closed businesses/out of date info, fixing dead links and the like. Since many of our articles also follow a similar structured format, it's very easy to contribute to the site so long as you're aware of your limitations. Some ideas I had in mind to perhaps make this wiki even more inviting to those who might not have the English skills necessary to contribute text but still want to help: * A community written guide on this, similar to [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, business owners]], [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, locals]] or [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, Wikipedians]] * Finish [[User:SHB2000/admins table]], move to the Wikivoyage namespace, add the table to [[Wikivoyage:Administrators]], and add any advanced perms from other WMF projects. ** Perhaps also make a similar table for non-admins who are reasonably active on this site. More thoughts and ideas would be appreciated – even better if we can facilitate this on other language Wikivoyages. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:11, 4 June 2025 (UTC) :Contribute in another language version of Wikvoyage it's just a matter of willingness and time. For a certain amount of time. For few years I've supported sv:voy without knowing any word in Swedish :-D Nowadays unfortunately I don't have enough time, so I can only concentrate it on it:voy :-( :PS your support on it:voy @[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] is always extremely appreciated! :-) [[User:Andyrom75|<span style="color:#BB0000; font-family:Papyrus; font-size:12px">'''Andyrom75'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Andyrom75|talk]]) 17:14, 4 June 2025 (UTC) ::I occasionally do the same kind of thing at the Haitian Creole Wikipedia. I can't write in the language, but I can check a maintenance category and fix the wikitext errors there. ::Based on my experience, I'd say that there are two main opportunities for contribution: ::* 'technical' contributions, such as fixing wikitext or broken URLs ::* language-agnostic contributions, such as adding phone numbers, websites, and lat/long coordinates to listings; adding images that require no caption or only a simple/obvious one (e.g., "Disneyland" or "Town Name Church"); removing listings for closed restaurants, etc. ::@[[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] might have some ideas about which tasks are easiest for his English-language learners to do. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 22:48, 4 June 2025 (UTC) :::Yeah this very much explains it in a nutshell. :) //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:13, 4 June 2025 (UTC) :::@[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] Indeed, some of my ESL students have effectively only a beginner level of English at best. These days, machine translation is getting good enough to understand a lot, and contribute text that's "mostly ok". It will only get better as AI tools and student use of them improve. Anyway, you can see my activities for students at [[User:Hanyangprofessor2]] [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 01:12, 5 June 2025 (UTC) ::::I have added images that I have taken to many different language variants of Wikipedia. I use Google translate for the text and and hope that a native user if that language will make any corrections. [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 11:22, 5 June 2025 (UTC) :::::I recently added a listing about Japan in [https://ja.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=%E6%88%90%E7%94%B0%E5%B8%82&diff=52846&oldid=50973 ja.voy] despite not knowing Japanese. The listing editor really makes it simple to improve an article. Last week I presented [[wikidata:Event:Wikidata_and_Sister_Projects#Friday,_May_30th|a Wikidata talk about Listing Editor]] and mentioned that it's a really good gateway to get more contributors. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:58, 5 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::The Listing Editor really does! Particularly because they're very standardised across most language Wikivoyages, so the only "bad" listing editor is a malfunctioning/broken listing editor. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:27, 21 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::Created a draft at [[Wikivoyage:Contributing with little to no knowledge of English]] – now that I have more time on my hands this week, I will try developing the page based on what has been mentioned in this discussion. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:53, 4 July 2025 (UTC) == Linking Wikicommons == I am documenting the Stockholm Archipelago Trail and have uploaded more than [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Stockholm_Archipelago_Trail 3,000 pictures] / [https://wikimap.toolforge.org/?cat=Stockholm_Archipelago_Trail&subcats=true&subcatdepth=4&cluster=false Wikimap] from the trail to Wikimedia Commons. For example, the section Nåttarö will be documented on Wikivoyage here: [[Stockholm_Archipelago_Trail#SAT_Nåttarö]] and is on Wikicommons [https://wikimap.toolforge.org/?cat=SAT_N%C3%A5ttar%C3%B6&subcats=true&subcatdepth=3&cluster=false WIkimap] 1) What is the policy regarding linking to a trail on Wikicommons? I believe such links add significant value by helping readers better understand the trail conditions. Additionally, I see 360-degree images as a step forward in enhancing navigation and exploration, making it easier for users to visualize the terrain. Additionally, 2) I have used Mapillary for one section. Is there a specific policy on linking Mapillary content? For instance, Stockholm Archipelago Trail’s Landsort section is partially represented on [https://www.mapillary.com/app/user/salgo601?lat=58.737857&lng=17.865676&z=17&pKey=1060410682654434 Mapillary pKey=1060410682654434] Would appreciate any guidance on this. Thanks! [[User:Salgo60|Salgo60]] ([[User talk:Salgo60|talk]]) 14:26, 4 June 2025 (UTC) :The use of a limited number of thumbnails from Commons is normal. See [[Wikivoyage:Image policy]]. Otherwise, links are normally through Wikidata: please read [[Wikivoyage:Sister project links]]. For guidelines on third-party links outside Wikimedia, see [[Wikivoyage:External links]], but the answer to your 2nd question is that such links are normally not allowed except to primary sources (for example, the website of a listed restaurant, hotel, museum, etc.) and are subject to deletion. However, Wikivoyage policies and guidelines are always open to discussion, so start a thread at the most relevant guideline article's talk page if you'd like to argue for a change. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 14:40, 4 June 2025 (UTC) ::thanks but dont the community see the added value? especially when documenting a walking trail it can be good to better understand how steep steep is....- [[User:Salgo60|Salgo60]] ([[User talk:Salgo60|talk]]) 14:54, 4 June 2025 (UTC) :::If you don't like my suggestion of starting a discussion thread on the appropriate policy page's talk page, where you can document the indispensability of Mapillary as your argument for a policy change, you can argue for an exception to policy on [[Talk:Stockholm Archipelago Trail]], but you can't get either a policy change or an exception by arguing in the Pub. But if you're asking for my opinion on why there has been no specific consideration of Mapillary, I'd speculate it's because most of us have never heard of it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 15:15, 4 June 2025 (UTC) ::::I've heard of Mapillary – I appreciate they're open source and licensed under CC-BY SA, but they're indirectly a competitor to Commons –&nbsp;if you can upload a photo to Mapillary, you can upload it to Commons. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:28, 5 June 2025 (UTC) :::::The difference is that you traverse a route on Mapillary its connected 360 pictures I am not an expert but [https://www.mapillary.com/app/?lat=58.737746&lng=17.865677&z=17&pKey=1848345639040650&x=0.46081730421230177&y=0.5976337053747495&zoom=0&focus=photo click on forward on this] its from me walking [[SAT_Landsort]] :::::* they support 360 pictures much better than Wikicommons :::::* [https://www.mapillary.com/showcase OsmAnd and Open Street Map use them] :::::[[User:Salgo60|Salgo60]] ([[User talk:Salgo60|talk]]) 19:08, 7 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::One issue is that of privacy. I might trust the WMF, but I don't want to research the privacy policy and trustworthiness of a third party. Checking the website of a hotel where I intend to sleep is one thing, a Wikivoyage page being dependent on a third party is very different. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 21:58, 7 June 2025 (UTC) :For Wikimedia Commons (that's their name), you can link a category or gallery via Wikidata. On a gallery page you can show all the most relevant images, with explanatory text and a layout of your liking. The rest of the images would be easily found in the category. Is that what you are looking for in your first question? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 22:04, 7 June 2025 (UTC) == I had an edit flagged as destructive because my account isn't very old == I was trying to remove information related to crossing the border into Azerbaijan from the Baku page (it's been closed since 2020 and the only way in is via air), but trying to delete a lot of content on a new account flagged me as a vandal. If someone has permissions to view the changes, and would be willing to check on those changes, thank you very much :) [[User:MagnumDahng|MagnumDahng]] ([[User talk:MagnumDahng|talk]]) 09:32, 9 June 2025 (UTC) :{{re|MagnumDahng}} Can you try removing the outdated content once again? I've temporarily disabled the filters; let me know once you've removed everything that you intended to. Sorry for the extra inconvenience. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:04, 9 June 2025 (UTC) ::It worked. ::No worries. I understand why it's there :) [[User:MagnumDahng|MagnumDahng]] ([[User talk:MagnumDahng|talk]]) 10:15, 9 June 2025 (UTC) :::Perfect, I've re-enabled the filters; thanks again for the updates! :) //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:36, 9 June 2025 (UTC) ==Does WV need a policy for descriptions of living people?== Wikivoyage is a travel guide and not intended to be a collection of biographies. Still, travel topics and itineraries might mention important individuals, such as explorers, artists, monarchs, and politicians. [[Wikivoyage:What is an article?]] discourages from creating an article for a living celebrity, as these are more difficult to finish than articles for [[Christopher Columbus]], [[Frank Lloyd Wright]] or [[Astrid Lindgren]]. Articles such as [[Presidents of the United States]] and [[Monarchy of the United Kingdom]] describe living individuals who have not concluded their careers, and they are certainly controversial. When writing [[Jewish Stockholm tour]], [[Stockholm environmentalist tour]] and [[Nordic monarchies]], a couple of famous living people came to mind, but I found it advisable to mention them as briefly as possible. Which general principles should we follow? /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 12:58, 9 June 2025 (UTC) :It looks like [[foundation:BLP]] encourages us to have a formal policy, even if there isn't much to say. [[Project:Don't be evil]], maybe? :We already have [[Wikivoyage:Photographs of identifiable people]] and [[Wikivoyage:Image policy#People in photos]], which discourage photos of people. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 20:36, 9 June 2025 (UTC) ::I'd support a policy for the same reason. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:40, 11 June 2025 (UTC) :I think this is largely not that relevant to a travel guide, but it is actually common to have "Maps of the Stars" or tours of celebrity homes in the Los Angeles region, which to me is completely crazy and behavior that should not be encouraged. Considering Whatamidoing's point about the WMF encouraging this kind of documentation, I think having a guideline/policy is wise. Good thinking. —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 21:00, 9 June 2025 (UTC) ::Yeah, I would absolutely oppose any article for a tour that takes people to the homes of celebrities who would rather be private in their own homes. If this kind of tour existed in New York, New Yorkers would be up in arms about it and pressing the City Council to pass a law about it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:35, 9 June 2025 (UTC) ::The page and section about photos say very little, mostly discouraging photos of yourself, which isn't what this is about. [[commons:Project:Photographs of identifiable people]] says a lot more and should probably be followed also regarding locally uploaded pictures. None of those three says anything about text about people (other than that captions shouldn't be defamatory). ::I think we probably shouldn't write a policy unless there are real issues. We have no reason to write about most people, and it seems common sense, like what Yvwv showed above, works reasonably well. Writing a policy opens up for loopholes and wikilawyering. ::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 21:50, 9 June 2025 (UTC) :::I wonder if our "BLP policy" could be a section in our existing [[Wikivoyage:Be fair]] policy. Basically, a few principles about avoiding mentioning individuals, and especially avoiding saying anything contentious or unfairly invading their privacy. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:40, 10 June 2025 (UTC) ::::That sounds reasonable. In the past I have opposed a suggestion to create an itinerary based on the travels of a living individual. ::::A more common situation is where a listing mentions something about the people that work in the hotel or restaurant. "Friendly owners" or "poor service from the waiters" is ok, but referring to staff by name needs more care. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 23:04, 10 June 2025 (UTC) :::::It's surely OK when the name of the Chef de Cuisine or Pastry Chef are printed on menus or are well-known chefs the restaurant promotes. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:40, 10 June 2025 (UTC) :::::: Can an artist's personal life be separated from their work? At least, death is useful to conclude a life story. As Georg Riedel past away one year ago, he deserves to be described in the [[Jewish Stockholm tour]]. Aleksander Wolodarski is another person appropriate to mention, but as he is well and alive (and to some degree a divisive character in Swedish architecture) the description of him in the same article is very brief. The [[Harry Potter tourism]] barely mentions the author, and that might be good as it is. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 10:16, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::I think it would be fine to note the name of a celebrity chef ("Thomas Keller's restaurant, The French Laundry"), or even a relatively public non-celebrity ("The restaurant owner, Mary Smith, is also the long-time mayor of this small town" or "Olly Owner is happy to pack a picnic upon request"). ::::::However, as an extension of [[Wikivoyage:Avoid negative reviews]], we don't really want "Chris Celebrity is pretentious and their restaurant is overpriced" or "Wendy Waitress is unfriendly and slow". [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:26, 11 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::I think we should avoid "Wendy Waitress is unfriendly", but "Some staff are unfriendly" is ok. It is important to report negative aspects of a place if either it is balanced by "excellent cooking and wonderful bread" or it is the only place in town. It becomes more difficult with one person businesses. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 20:24, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::Wikivoyage should not be interested in people: that is the province of Wikipedia. Wikivoyage is however interested in places associated with people and to this end should be cautious about their privacy. If however the individual concerned invites members of the public to their homes or businesses (for example Donald Trump has a website for [https://www.maralagoclub.com/ Mar-a-Lago]) then it is no longer Wikivoyage's role to protect his privacy: if he publicises his home, then it is incumbent on him to look after his own privacy. In contrast, Joe Biden does not appear to advertise his home, so neither should Wikivoyage (even if a search on the internet will reveal Joe Biden's properties).[[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 15:18, 12 June 2025 (UTC) :Does something like this feel about right? :---- :As a general rule, Wikivoyage is interested in places, not people. Occasionally, providing a fair description will involve mentioning a specific person. In such cases, these principles apply to protect living people: :* Avoid contentious matter about living people to the maximum extent possible, to show respect for human dignity and personal privacy. Publishing personal information that is tangential to the needs of the article, trivial, ephemeral, or constitutes a [[Wikivoyage:Avoid negative reviews|negative review]] is unfair. For example, if a restaurant owner promotes dubious beliefs to customers, then omit the listing completely rather than writing about the owner's beliefs. :* Avoid whole articles focused on living people, such as an [[Wikivoyage:Itineraries|itinerary]] to see the private homes of celebrities. It is fair to have an itinerary focused on Taylor Swift's concert tours; it is not fair to have an article focused on her homes. :* Individual listings that name a living public figure are acceptable so long as the content is not contentious. However, you should avoid naming living people when a general description is adequate. For example, write "The owner is happy to talk about local history" instead of "Harry Historian, the owner, is happy to talk about local history", even though you would name the celebrity chef Thomas Keller as the owner of the restaurant The French Laundry. :---- :What should be changed, added, omitted? [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:39, 12 June 2025 (UTC) ::Thanks for offering a rough draft! The one part that sticks out to me as problematic is the part about "dubious beliefs," which gives an opening to intolerant atheists to complain about a bismillah or cross in a restaurant. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:12, 12 June 2025 (UTC) :::I was thinking about political beliefs, and specifically about an anti-masking restaurant I read about during the pandemic, but you're right: That needs to be re-worded. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 23:30, 12 June 2025 (UTC) ::::Still a good start, I'd say. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:15, 13 June 2025 (UTC) ::::I don't think that businesses should be removed because of beliefs of the owner or personnel; that the owner touts antivacc or flat-earth theories might be entertaining rather than a reason to avoid them. One might tell that they might raise controversial topics. For dangerous practices, such as not using masks when needed, that would be treated like them using contaminated water or whatever. Yes, sometimes that warrants removing the listing in line with ''no bad reviews'', but that has little to do with privacy. ::::For a Finnish business, it was suggested that the listings be removed because of bigotry, in effect a boycott by Wikivoyage. I am not sure about to what extent to do that, but I assume we might tell something about the owner in that case, if we leave the choice whether to use their services to our readers. I would oppose individual editors removing listings because of views that don't conform with their own, but they may of course choose not to add them. ::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 12:28, 13 June 2025 (UTC) :::::I think there might be a spectrum of issues, but some types of (e.g.,) bigotry are not compatible with [[Wikivoyage:The traveller comes first]]. Inclusion constitutes a recommendation, at least when there are other alternatives. If we list a restaurant, it should be because travellers are welcome. If the restaurant's listing would need to have a disclaimer along the lines of "BTW, only white people are allowed to eat here" or "People whom the owner thinks look Jewish/Muslim/Black/gay/trans will be refused service", then that restaurant shouldn't be included in Wikivoyage at all. Listed restaurants should normally be open to all of the general public. :::::On the other end of the spectrum, if the owner cheerfully accepts all customers, but he privately belongs to a racist organization, then that's not really relevant to the travellers' experience, so we needn't mention that. Travellers who want to patronize only businesses owned by people who share the same politics/religion/race/sexual orientation should look elsewhere for that information. :::::Somewhere in the middle is factual information that travellers may interpret in opposite ways. For example, if a given deli in New York City is kosher, it'd be worth noting that in the description. Most travellers won't care. Some travellers will prefer it (either for religious reasons or because kosher meat is considered more ethical than conventional meat). Some travellers will reject it. But knowing that it might appeal (or not) to different travellers is not the same as different travellers not being allowed to eat at the deli. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 20:02, 13 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::I see no problem in describing a restaurant in terms of the religious beliefs that it portrays provided that it is done in a neutral manner - for example , "The XYZ resaurant is a kosher/halal/vegetarian establishment". The reader can then make up their ow mind about patronising the establishment - after all Wikivoyage has many articles about various places of worship. [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 21:05, 13 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::I think the general point is that we want "XYZ is a kosher/halal/vegetarian restaurant" but not "The owner of XYZ is a Jew/Muslim/vegetarian person". [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:10, 14 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::I agree here. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:56, 18 June 2025 (UTC) *Suggested rewrite of the first point (Changes in bold): :"''Avoid contentious matter about living people to the maximum extent possible, to show respect for human dignity and personal privacy. Publishing personal information that is tangential to the needs of the article, trivial, ephemeral, or constitutes a negative review is unfair. For example, if a restaurant owner promotes '''particular''' beliefs to customers, then omit the listing completely rather than writing about the owner's beliefs. '''If however the establishment itself <u>caters</u> for certain beliefs and/or ethics, it is reasonable, or maybe even desireable, to add those beliefs/ethics to the description in a neutral manner - such as including the words "kosher/halal/vegetarian" to the establishment's description.'''''" [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 21:14, 13 June 2025 (UTC) *I suggest that the second point be extended as follows (additions in bold): :''Avoid whole articles focused on living people, such as an itinerary to see the private homes of celebrities. It is fair to have an itinerary focused on Taylor Swift's concert tours; it is not fair to have an article focused on her homes. '''However, if the celebrity concerend advertises their home to the general public (for example [https://www.maralagoclub.com/ Mar-a-Lago], home of Donald Trump or [https://www.blenheimpalace.com/ Blenheim Palace], home of the Duke of Marlborough) , then it is perfectly in order to mention the home in an article and ideally to include a web address the description or article.''''' ::[[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 21:27, 13 June 2025 (UTC) ::I think all this discussion of beliefs and politics is bad and not something about which we want policies. Also, bad reviews are by no means inherently unfair, and I'm mystified by how anyone could think that's the case; it's just that Wikivoyage chooses with some exceptions to simply refrain from listing businesses, rather than stating that they are bad. I also don't see why we would need to add a policy that establishments that discriminate against people based for example on their ethnicity, appearance or national origin, such as a historic restaurant in Düsseldorf that refused admission to East Asians early in the pandemic, be delisted, because we already do that based on preexisting policies. Right now, I think that based on the drafts circulated in this thread, we risk approving a new policy that is worse than none. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:40, 13 June 2025 (UTC) :::It might be best to try the smallest possible addition. After all, it's usually easier to get a policy expanded later if we really need it, than to get it shortened later. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:08, 14 June 2025 (UTC) ::::Here's a shorter version: ::::---- ::::As a general rule, Wikivoyage is interested in places, not people. Occasionally, providing a fair description will involve mentioning a specific person. In such cases, these principles apply to protect living people: ::::* Avoid contentious matter about living people to the maximum extent possible, to show respect for human dignity and personal privacy. Individual listings that name a living public figure are acceptable so long as the content is not contentious. ::::* Avoid whole articles focused on living people, such as an [[Wikivoyage:Itineraries|itinerary]] to see the private homes of celebrities. ::::---- ::::We could also soften "the maximum extent possible". It's always "possible" to avoid mentioning anyone's name, but it's not always "reasonable" to do so. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:14, 14 June 2025 (UTC) :::::What about the article on U.S. presidents? We don't avoid contentious facts about living current and former presidents; we just agree on what should be in the blurbs about them based on the existing [[Wikivoyage:Be fair]] guidelines. I still fail to see how adding at least your first proposed guideline will improve anything. Also, are we creating a solution for a nonexistent problem? Can you cite a previous example of an article that had unnecessarily contentious facts about living people that we were not able to deal with by using existing guidelines? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:33, 17 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::[[Presidents of the United States]] is not a "whole article focused on living people"; it is a whole article focused on mostly long-dead people with just five living US Presidents being mentioned (and mostly in a "public museum" way, not a "current private home" way). This would therefore be acceptable as a case of "Individual listings that name a living public figure" that "show respect for human dignity and personal privacy". ::::::The existing problem to be solved is: The Board of Directors for the WIkimedia Foundation said that every project needs to have an official, written BLP policy. They said this about 16 years ago, so we're running a bit behind schedule, but we should have something. Their resolution encourages "special attention to the principles of neutrality", so I think putting a few sentences inside our version of the "[[Wikivoyage:NPOV|NPOV]]" policy would be appropriate. We could even create a [[WV:BLP]] shortcut to it, so the Wikipedia folks can find it easier. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:16, 17 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::My problem is not with your second proposed provision, which is fine, but your first, and that's what my last reply addressed. If it stated that when living people have to be mentioned, we must [[be fair]] and come to a [[consensus]] about anything contentious, I'd be happy. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:33, 17 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::Can you think of any contentious or derogatory information a travel guide – especially one that does not cite external sources – ''needs'' to include? [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:37, 18 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::::I already gave you an example! And what about when we fairly describe countries as dictatorships? We've sometimes had users object and try to whitewash articles, and in such cases, we are armed with [[Wikivoyage:Be fair]], not some ridiculous claim that anything "contentious" is bad and must be avoided, which would have played into their hands. Wikivoyage is a travel guide, not a site that tries to be neutral. We expressly don't have an NPOV policy, but instead a policy that requires fairness. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 18:10, 18 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::I agree that we can fairly describe a country as being a dictatorship. Do we need to describe an individual living person as a dictator, when doing so would be contentious (e.g., produce disputes and disagreements on wiki)? I just checked every article containing the words "a dictator" and "the dictator"; none of them refer to living people. ::::::::::If your prior example was "What about the article on U.S. presidents?", I've already answered that question. I don't see anything privacy-invading in [[Presidents of the United States]], and I don't see anything contentious about any living person in there, either. The contents are not universally approved by the campaign team, but nobody actually disputes or "contends" over the facts (e.g., that Clinton was involved in a sex scandal, or that Trump is technically a convicted felon). [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 01:07, 20 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::::::If you haven't had the misfortune of speaking with a Trumper lately, consider yourself lucky. There are tens of millions of hard-core Trumpers in the U.S. who don't accept basic scientific facts and advance all kinds of conspiracy nonsense as truth. I dealt with a cabbie in New Rochelle yesterday who gratuitously started talking about politics. He claimed Biden already had cancer 4 years ago, and "they" covered it up, that claims of fossil fuels causing global warming are "bullshit" and that if the Democrats had been elected last year, we'd all be driving electric cars already, among other things. So I very much contest your confident assertion that statements of fact about Trump, Biden, Obama, etc. are not "contentious". We need to remove that word from consideration as something Wikivoyage cannot be. Do you remember years ago when there was someone who spent a couple of weeks or more trying to whitewash descriptions of Cuba by claiming that it was really a democracy, their elections are really free and fair, and the Communists have never been dictators or oppressed anyone there? Or the ones that claimed that China is a democracy and it was the U.S. (pre-Trump) that was really oppressive (the latter of which of course has never been completely false, but that was entirely beside the point in a travel guide as well as being pure whataboutism that disproves nothing). We've had all kinds of politically motivated contentions against facts. That's why our standard is [[Wikivoyage:Be fair]], not "Wikivoyage/Avoid saying anything anyone could argue with", which is what "contentious" means or would mean in the hands of anyone who wants to use a travel guide to grind an axe, rather than to improve a resource for travelers. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:14, 20 June 2025 (UTC) :::I agree with Ikan. I was brought up in South Africa during the Apartheid era. Had Wikivoyage been around at that time, would we have deleted everything about South Africa on grounds that almost every establishment was required by law to practice racial discrimination? I do not think that would not have been appropriate. However I think that it would have been appropriate to include a section on how to navigate the country's racial policies. [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 22:22, 5 July 2025 (UTC) == Full-size images not available on maps in city districts == Since yesterday (and possibly earlier), the images in listings can be viewed in the dynamic map but trying to click on it to go to the full description page will lead to a broken link if they are in a city district page. This raises the issue on image attribution. You can test it on any listings with images at [[Queens/Flushing-Northeast]] and [[Toronto/Etobicoke]]. Anyone have insight on what recent changes broke this functionality? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 15:46, 12 June 2025 (UTC) :Yes, needs to be fixed. For some reason, the File: prefix is prefixed by the district name. I try to check [[Module:Listing]] for the bug. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:52, 13 June 2025 (UTC) ::Oops, the city name, not the district. Seemingly the article name is included in the image argument, and removed, but not properly so for subarticles. [[Module:Marker]] is possibly more relevant than Listing, but it is some underlying functionality that is the culprit. My understanding of how modules work is too weak for me to find it. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 12:10, 13 June 2025 (UTC) :::The marker on the map seems to be constructed using mw.text.jsonEncode. Where can one read that code? Was there some change recently? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:30, 30 June 2025 (UTC) == Selection and number of images == [split off as suggested by [[User:OhanaUnited|OhanaUnited]] 02:39, 30 June 2025 (UTC). –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:17, 30 June 2025 (UTC)] ::: The images embedded within listings are often not the best currently available. They don't display unless you click and faff about, so they don't enhance the page appearance encountered by the general reader. Wouldn't it be neat if there was some repository of images that were the best available copyfree, that could be simply incorporated into the page layout? We'd be sure to use those instead, right? [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 20:20, 15 June 2025 (UTC) ::::The main problem with that is that somebody needs to pick those best available images. That's done in Commons' galleries, where images uploaded in the last dozen years aren't included. We could use the image on Wikidata, but they might not be chosen according to what they are like as thumbnails. Perhaps a specific wikidata property could be created for thumbnail images or even Wikivoyage thumbnail images (like for our banners). About having to click several times, that could be improved, but we don't want clutter, so some discussion is needed on the trade-off if we want to change the status quo. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 18:33, 17 June 2025 (UTC) ::::: Picking those best images and considering how best to display them is exactly what editors should do, same as picking the best attractions or accommodations to list in a town, we shouldn't lazily accept what's already on the page. It's hardly an onerous task, and we want the best for our readers. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 19:00, 17 June 2025 (UTC) :::::{{quote|The main problem with that is that somebody needs to pick those best available images.}} :::::Maybe we can take assistance from AI tools to ease out the problem, just like we sometimes use AI to pick the best attractions to visit, and choose the appropriate accommodation. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 19:07, 17 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::I haven't heard about us letting such decisions to AI, and I'm not sure we should do it with images. But regardless of what way the images get chosen, it would be good if the choice were saved at Wikidata, to be used automatically. As the images aren't shown in the article itself, the less effort we need to use choosing, the better. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:55, 17 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::How much effort do we need to save here? The first example cited was Queens / Flushing. That page is under-illustrated, with one strong image and two so-so. It took me 10 min to find six more good images on Commons, about the right number for a page of this length. Inserting them might take 3 mins apiece, say 20 min, which I'm not volunteering to do as the entire page needs updating, a solid day's work. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 21:07, 17 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::Choosing images sounds like a task that some people would love to do. Maybe we could advertise it better? It's even a task that people who don't speak English well should be able to do. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:40, 18 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::::It could be a good task, but I have seen a lot of image adding that isn't optimal: ignoring our guideline of [[Wikivoyage:Image policy#Minimal use of images|Minimal use of images]], trying to illustrate individual listings instead of the article as a whole, writing captions to that effect, and placing the images in ways that suite the editor's browser window rather than conform to best practices. :::::::::Increased advertising of this activity should thus be done cautiously, to avoid frustration both among those adding images and those patrolling. :::::::::The original issue was about images for the dynamic map, which is different from illustrating the article. :::::::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:00, 19 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::As a side note, [[Wikivoyage:Image policy#Minimal use of images]] probably needs both a little re-writing ("1 image per screen": Whose screen size?) and some reconsidering, as availability of internet access has generally improved since then (the [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Wikivoyage:Image_policy&diff=prev&oldid=3629972 last significant update was in 2018], based on [[Wikivoyage talk:Image policy/archive 2014-2019#Minimal use of images - not appropriate|a discussion started in 2016]]). ::::::::::But I agree that it's a tangent for the current thread. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 01:18, 20 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::::::How carefully did you read Minimal use? :::::::::::"1 image per screen (1,000–2,000 bytes)" :::::::::::I suppose you want to suggest an increase in the number of images we should use, and if so, do that at [[Wikivoyage talk:Image policy]]. But keep in mind that the mobile interface sucks and the site is still better viewed on a computer. I would be likely to oppose any change in the language, as there is flexibility to use more images than stated in the guideline as long as there isn't an unbroken stream on the left side; images left, right and center; or images that go below the end of the article, which looks terrible. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:19, 20 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::::I read that, and I wondered which method we're using to measure "1,000 bytes". One screenful – edge to edge, top to bottom, on my laptop, with my font, my size (larger than default), my zoom (120%), etc. – is right around 2000 characters for me, but others may have half that, or four times that. Shorter lines (e.g., using only half the line at the end of a paragraph, or a short item in a list) adds volume without adding characters. ::::::::::::If we're using the file size, then wikitext and URLs add bulk to the file without affecting the screen size. We could have "1,000 bytes" and have a half-full screen (on my laptop) or "2,000 bytes" and still have a half-full screen. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 20:41, 20 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::::::::These are rough estimates. An A4 with 67×47=3150 is quite close to 2k, if there are images, headings and paragraph breaks, probably much less if there are lists. I suppose an A4 is close to readability optimum (my browser and Emacs windows are not far off). My mobile phone seems to have 50×33=1650, perhaps 1k with images etc. The numbers don't seem to be too far off. Without prescribing a test with some specific browser window size, we cannot give precise advice. [[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:16, 22 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::::::From your estimate, the numbers appear to be off by 50%. 3150 = would be "quite close" to 3K, not 2K. ::::::::::::::I think that a more practical suggestion would be: Every well-developed section should usually have one image, so long as this can be done without the images dropping down into the next section. On desktop, this usually requires a minimum of 10 to 12 lines of text per landscape image. Very long sections can have two images. ::::::::::::::This would address the wikitext-vs-displayed problem and the difference between a solid paragraph and a long bullet list with one or two words on each line. ::::::::::::::But as we noted above, this is a separate discussion from the original concern. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:15, 22 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::::::: Can we take the "select the best picture" conversation into a sub-section? My original intention of this post is to report a bug which leads to the legal issue of image attribution. [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 02:39, 30 June 2025 (UTC) == Commons RFD notifications == While the Commons bot that alert us to images about to be deleted [[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub/2025#Commons Notification Deletion bot revived|was revived]], images are still being deleted without notification, namely those (I assume), that were nominated before 4 May. The issue was told in the linked announcement, but I did not realise its implications. So, expect some imgages to be removed with no notification on the talk page. If they might be valuable, they should be temporarily restored for local upload, like when the bot wasn't working. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:51, 13 June 2025 (UTC) == Usurped URLs == Are usurped or dead URLs (e.g. [[w:en:WP:JUDI]]) normally archived, or removed? I'm looking at the page [[Northampton_(Massachusetts)#Eat]], where the second link is usurped. Thanks, [[User:OutsideNormality|OutsideNormality]] ([[User talk:OutsideNormality|talk]]) 20:22, 13 June 2025 (UTC) :If a url no longer goes to the home page for the listing in question, please update it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 22:18, 13 June 2025 (UTC) ::Actually, looking back, it seems like the URL was never "usurped" and was directly added as a spam link in [[Special:Diff/4154976/4167772]]. Thanks anyway for the advice. [[User:OutsideNormality|OutsideNormality]] ([[User talk:OutsideNormality|talk]]) 00:40, 14 June 2025 (UTC) == Vote now in the 2025 U4C Election == <div lang="en" dir="ltr" class="mw-content-ltr"> {{Int:Please-translate}} Eligible voters are asked to participate in the 2025 [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee|Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee]] election. More information–including an eligibility check, voting process information, candidate information, and a link to the vote–are available on Meta at the [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee/Election/2025|2025 Election information page]]. The vote closes on 17 June 2025 at [https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1750161600 12:00 UTC]. Please vote if your account is eligible. Results will be available by 1 July 2025. -- In cooperation with the U4C, [[m:User:Keegan (WMF)|Keegan (WMF)]] ([[m:User talk:Keegan (WMF)|talk]]) 23:01, 13 June 2025 (UTC) </div> <!-- Message sent by User:Keegan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=28848819 --> :Surprised this was sent very late. I made a guide on all the candidates on Meta at [[m:User:SHB2000/U4C guide 2025]], for those interested. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:13, 14 June 2025 (UTC) == Wisconsin Dells Kalahari Expansion; should I mention it in the Wisconsin Dells page == Hello! It is now practically mainstream media (In Wisconsin Dells) that Kalahari's expanding its Indoor Waterpark into what was a mainly unused parking lot (which is currently either getting demolished or already is demolished as of posting) and will add a fully glass dome with a retractable roof (this is not an ad, this is according to many sources including the Kalahari its self, Fox11online.com, Whitewater West, Martin Aquatic, and Maverick Hayes' Social Media). Now the real question is should I add this too my page? Cheers! [[User:HistorySports|HistorySports]] ([[User talk:HistorySports|talk]]) 15:22, 14 June 2025 (UTC) :To your page meaning what? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 15:35, 14 June 2025 (UTC) ::@[[User:HistorySports|HistorySports]], I think it's fair to add information about waterparks to [[Wisconsin Dells#Do]] or [[Wisconsin Dells#Sleep]]. (You pick which one based on whether people mostly stay there, and happen to use the water park, or mostly go to the water park, and a few people stay there, too – just use your judgement and don't stress about the distinction too much.) ::The important thing isn't the news ("they're expanding!") but what is available today ("Wisconsin's biggest indoor waterpark"). ::In general, when I skim through that article, I wish that there were prices for the activities and longer descriptions. In particular, there seem to be a lot of attractions, but I have no idea which one I'd choose. Is one the lowest cost? The best value? Best for little kids? Best for teens? Best for older adults/multi-generational families? Open year-round? Has the most swimming pool lifts for wheelchair users? If you can, try to add some sort of information about the differences between different attractions that might help travellers decide which things they want to do. ::Also, it looks like there are several listings that need to be moved to [[Baraboo]]. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 18:54, 14 June 2025 (UTC) :::Thanks WhatamIdoing! I will follow your advice and hopefully we can have a great page for the area of Wisconsin Dells! [[User:HistorySports|HistorySports]] ([[User talk:HistorySports|talk]]) 19:47, 15 June 2025 (UTC) ::Sorry I wasn't clear and that's totally my fault, but I was talking about the Wisconsin Dells page, sorry! [[User:HistorySports|HistorySports]] ([[User talk:HistorySports|talk]]) 19:47, 15 June 2025 (UTC) :::Thanks. So you know, it's not your page: it's a Wikivoyage article. The only page I'd consider your page is your user page. That said, on the face of it, I would put activities in "Do", not "Sleep". [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:09, 17 June 2025 (UTC) == Wikistats page views == What is up with Wikistats page views for English Wikivoyage? 87 million last month? https://stats.wikimedia.org/#/en.wikivoyage.org/reading/total-page-views/normal%7Cbar%7C2-year%7C~total%7Cmonthly 36 million from Brazil apparently. [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 23:18, 14 June 2025 (UTC) :That is a very interesting anomaly indeed. No idea why, but still very interesting to know why we have so many views from Brazil. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:47, 16 June 2025 (UTC) ::Maybe users on VPN? [[User:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: #0000FF;">OhanaUnited</b>]][[User talk:OhanaUnited|<b style="color: green;">^{Talk page}</b>]] 14:25, 16 June 2025 (UTC) == FYI: Dear Atlas: Where Can I Find the Most Unusual Festivals in the U.S.? == https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/off-the-beaten-path-american-festivals —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 07:58, 15 June 2025 (UTC) == [[Talk:Ferries in the Mediterranean#A Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item has been nominated for deletion]] == No-one seems to be paying any attention to the fact that we are likely to lose a photo. We need to decide whether we're OK with that or not. I will not make a unilateral decision. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:07, 17 June 2025 (UTC) :Is it just me, or does it seem like too many photos have been getting removed lately? [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 16:00, 17 June 2025 (UTC) ::Has there been an uptick in deletion requests at Commons? Or are we just noticing them more, now that the notifications bot is working again? [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:08, 17 June 2025 (UTC) :::As someone who was monitoring [[c:Commons:Deletion requests]] until the bot started working again, I think it's the latter. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:38, 17 June 2025 (UTC) ::::I hope this deletion can be resisted. Tirrenia ferries in 2017 made a deal with Warner Bros to plaster their ships' exteriors with cartoon characters such as Batman, to give them a jazzy attractive look. That deal continues and you really cannot take a photo of any T ferry without including the character: it's as integral to the ship as the company logo and the pointy bit at the front. The intention of any such photo is to portray the ship not replicate the character, and IMO it's a misuse of copyright law to claim we can't publish it copyfree. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 18:51, 17 June 2025 (UTC) :::::Such arguments have been presented in the RFD on Commons, and I think that they are legally sound. However, "misuse of copyright law" is not what this is about. There is no word of God saying that utilitarian objects (in this case: the ship) can be freely photographed, and if the law says otherwise, Commons can do little about it. I think the current copyright laws are a disaster, caused by lobbyists and weak politicians, but that means that the copyright laws need to be changed (read: one should spread awareness of the absurdities), not that we can ignore current law. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 20:03, 17 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::The Wikimedia Foundation requires that Commons files be available for unimpeded commercial use. They don't have to, and we don't have to, which is why we have a freedom of panorama fair use exception doctrine. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:10, 17 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::Yes, true. For Commons, the stringency is because of their mission – they don't want to host content that cannot be used. All kinds of compromises are possible or even necessary, but commercial use, such as in small-budget books, is essential for their mission. In some cases, where copyright law is unclear, they could be a bit braver, but that's a separate issue. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 05:05, 18 June 2025 (UTC) == Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees 2025 - Call for Candidates == <section begin="announcement-content" /> :<div class="plainlinks">[[m:Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia Foundation elections/2025/Announcement/Call for candidates|{{int:interlanguage-link-mul}}]] • [https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Translate&group=page-{{urlencode:Wikimedia Foundation elections/2025/Announcement/Call for candidates}}&language=&action=page&filter= {{int:please-translate}}]</div> Hello all, The [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia Foundation elections/2025|call for candidates for the 2025 Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees selection is now open]] from June 17, 2025 – July 2, 2025 at 11:59 UTC [1]. The Board of Trustees oversees the Wikimedia Foundation's work, and each Trustee serves a three-year term [2]. This is a volunteer position. This year, the Wikimedia community will vote in late August through September 2025 to fill two (2) seats on the Foundation Board. Could you – or someone you know – be a good fit to join the Wikimedia Foundation's Board of Trustees? [3] Learn more about what it takes to stand for these leadership positions and how to submit your candidacy on [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia Foundation elections/2025/Candidate application|this Meta-wiki page]] or encourage someone else to run in this year's election. Best regards, Abhishek Suryawanshi<br /> Chair of the Elections Committee On behalf of the Elections Committee and Governance Committee [1] https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Call_for_candidates [2] https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Legal:Bylaws#(B)_Term. [3] https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Resources_for_candidates<section end="announcement-content" /> [[User:MediaWiki message delivery|MediaWiki message delivery]] ([[User talk:MediaWiki message delivery|talk]]) 17:44, 17 June 2025 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:RamzyM (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=28866958 --> == New copycat site == I haven't had the time to fully look into it and I've been quite busy IRL this month, but it seems we have a new copycat site called https://www.localcityguide.net/. It mirrors Wikivoyage pages word-for-word with "2022 © Local City Guide. All rights reserved." and some pages like [[Itineraries]] ([https://www.localcityguide.net/en/Itineraries]) do nothing to even remove mentions of Wikivoyage. What's interesting about this site is that they've listed those behind the site so openly in the [https://www.localcityguide.net/about-us About us] section – I'm not sure how accurate it is, but it could be something to go off. What are the WMF's protocols when a site copies an entire project and what can we do about it? //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:59, 18 June 2025 (UTC) :It has a nice presentation, a handful of blog entries posted in June 2022, and it looks like the foundation of the site is our stuff, refreshed regularly. (Changes I made yesterday already appear.) There is no ability to edit articles. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 10:11, 18 June 2025 (UTC) :This is against the terms of service, CC license restrictions, and American copyright law. You should contact the [[:m:Wikimedia_Foundation/Legal|Legal Team]] via email at legal[little-anarchy-symbol]wikimedia[point]org. —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 10:22, 18 June 2025 (UTC) ::I picked an arbitrary page of which I have knowledge, but which is not on the average tourist itinerary, [[Estcourt]]. It has an [[outline article|outline]] status. I clicked on "outline" and the first sentence read: :::"An '''outline article''' is a status rating for any article in ''<u>Wikivoyage</u>'' ... " [My emphasis]. ::This is proof that they are copying the WIkivoyage site. [[User:Martinvl|Martinvl]] ([[User talk:Martinvl|talk]]) 16:00, 18 June 2025 (UTC) ::: It seems that the contents are incorporated by a script directly from Wikivoyage similar to the html frame technology that's why the articles are up-to-date. I made a small change in some status ratings of the German Wikivoyage, and immediately you can read that this is a usable Wikivoyage article in the footer. --[[User:RolandUnger|RolandUnger]] ([[User talk:RolandUnger|talk]]) 17:24, 18 June 2025 (UTC) ::Copying Wikivoyage's contents is okay. However, you have to provide "reasonable" attribution. That's usually done with something like a simple link to the original article on Wikivoyage. I don't see Wikivoyage mentioned on their website, so they need to fix that – but remember that the goal is for them to fix it, not to punish them or prevent them from sharing our information. ::[[w:en:WP:BACKWARDSCOPY]] has some advice on how to contact websites that haven't complied with the license terms. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 19:27, 18 June 2025 (UTC) :::I have sent the developers of the site an email about this. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:38, 21 June 2025 (UTC) ::::I've also forwarded it to WMF legal (cc {{u|Koavf}}). //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:40, 21 June 2025 (UTC) :::::Merci. —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 02:52, 21 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::15 days later and no response. Sigh... :/. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:50, 6 July 2025 (UTC) == Mexican disambiguators == Some input at [[Wikivoyage talk:Naming conventions#Disambiguators for Mexican destinations]] would be appreciated. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:41, 19 June 2025 (UTC) == Most visited country in Southeast Asia == It looks like [[Thailand]] just lost its crown to [[Malaysia]], at least for Q1 2025. Should we update our articles to reflect that, or should we wait and see if Malaysia can sustain its lead? [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 16:11, 23 June 2025 (UTC) :{{ping|The dog2}} I think you should update the articles to say that both Thailand and Malaysia are the most visited countries of SE Asia, along the lines of, "Thailand, along with Malaysia, are...", "Malaysia, along with Thailand, are..." or even "Malaysia and Thailand are...". '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 17:11, 23 June 2025 (UTC) ::I think we should wait till yearly figures are available before changing anything. Too many things can change from one quarter to the next. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:52, 23 June 2025 (UTC) :::Agreed – one quarter might not be a true reflection. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:24, 24 June 2025 (UTC) == Regionlist == I have added a static map in [[Maharashtra]], but it disappears without showing a dynamic map when I click/press the link "switch to interactive map". Same happens in [[West Bengal]], [[Andhra Pradesh]], [[Chennai]], etc. I think there's a bug in {{tl|Regionlist}} that causes this disappearance, as the template itself was last edited on August 2024. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 13:36, 26 June 2025 (UTC) :Same issue on it:voy. For sure is caused by a change server side. I'll try to figure out if we can solve locally or if we need to open a ticket. [[User:Andyrom75|<span style="color:#BB0000; font-family:Papyrus; font-size:12px">'''Andyrom75'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Andyrom75|talk]]) 06:46, 27 June 2025 (UTC) ::I've patched it. Now it works again. Be sure to refresh/purge the page you test. [[User:Andyrom75|<span style="color:#BB0000; font-family:Papyrus; font-size:12px">'''Andyrom75'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Andyrom75|talk]]) 07:32, 27 June 2025 (UTC) == Sister Projects Task Force reviews Wikispore and Wikinews == <section begin="message"/> Dear Wikimedia Community, The [[m:Wikimedia Foundation Community Affairs Committee|Community Affairs Committee (CAC)]] of the Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees assigned [[m:Wikimedia Foundation Community Affairs Committee/Sister Projects Task Force|the Sister Projects Task Force (SPTF)]] to update and implement a procedure for assessing the lifecycle of Sister Projects – wiki [[m:Wikimedia projects|projects supported by Wikimedia Foundation (WMF)]]. A vision of relevant, accessible, and impactful free knowledge has always guided the Wikimedia Movement. As the ecosystem of Wikimedia projects continues to evolve, it is crucial that we periodically review existing projects to ensure they still align with our goals and community capacity. Despite their noble intent, some projects may no longer effectively serve their original purpose. '''Reviewing such projects is not about giving up – it's about responsible stewardship of shared resources'''. Volunteer time, staff support, infrastructure, and community attention are finite, and the non-technical costs tend to grow significantly as our ecosystem has entered a different age of the internet than the one we were founded in. Supporting inactive projects or projects that didn't meet our ambitions can unintentionally divert these resources from areas with more potential impact. Moreover, maintaining projects that no longer reflect the quality and reliability of the Wikimedia name stands for, involves a reputational risk. An abandoned or less reliable project affects trust in the Wikimedia movement. Lastly, '''failing to sunset or reimagine projects that are no longer working can make it much harder to start new ones'''. When the community feels bound to every past decision – no matter how outdated – we risk stagnation. A healthy ecosystem must allow for evolution, adaptation, and, when necessary, letting go. If we create the expectation that every project must exist indefinitely, we limit our ability to experiment and innovate. Because of this, SPTF reviewed two requests concerning the lifecycle of the Sister Projects to work through and demonstrate the review process. We chose Wikispore as a case study for a possible new Sister Project opening and Wikinews as a case study for a review of an existing project. Preliminary findings were discussed with the CAC, and a community consultation on both proposals was recommended. === Wikispore === The [[m:Wikispore|application to consider Wikispore]] was submitted in 2019. SPTF decided to review this request in more depth because rather than being concentrated on a specific topic, as most of the proposals for the new Sister Projects are, Wikispore has the potential to nurture multiple start-up Sister Projects. After careful consideration, the SPTF has decided '''not to recommend''' Wikispore as a Wikimedia Sister Project. Considering the current activity level, the current arrangement allows '''better flexibility''' and experimentation while WMF provides core infrastructural support. We acknowledge the initiative's potential and seek community input on what would constitute a sufficient level of activity and engagement to reconsider its status in the future. As part of the process, we shared the decision with the Wikispore community and invited one of its leaders, Pharos, to an SPTF meeting. Currently, we especially invite feedback on measurable criteria indicating the project's readiness, such as contributor numbers, content volume, and sustained community support. This would clarify the criteria sufficient for opening a new Sister Project, including possible future Wikispore re-application. However, the numbers will always be a guide because any number can be gamed. === Wikinews === We chose to review Wikinews among existing Sister Projects because it is the one for which we have observed the highest level of concern in multiple ways. Since the SPTF was convened in 2023, its members have asked for the community's opinions during conferences and community calls about Sister Projects that did not fulfil their promise in the Wikimedia movement.[https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:WCNA_2024._Sister_Projects_-_opening%3F_closing%3F_merging%3F_splitting%3F.pdf <nowiki>[1]</nowiki>][https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_Community_Affairs_Committee/Sister_Projects_Task_Force#Wikimania_2023_session_%22Sister_Projects:_past,_present_and_the_glorious_future%22 <nowiki>[2]</nowiki>][https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/WikiConvention_francophone/2024/Programme/Quelle_proc%C3%A9dure_pour_ouvrir_ou_fermer_un_projet_%3F <nowiki>[3]</nowiki>] Wikinews was the leading candidate for an evaluation because people from multiple language communities proposed it. Additionally, by most measures, it is the least active Sister Project, with the greatest drop in activity over the years. While the Language Committee routinely opens and closes language versions of the Sister Projects in small languages, there has never been a valid proposal to close Wikipedia in major languages or any project in English. This is not true for Wikinews, where there was a proposal to close English Wikinews, which gained some traction but did not result in any action[https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Proposals_for_closing_projects/Closure_of_English_Wikinews <nowiki>[4]</nowiki>][https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/WikiConvention_francophone/2024/Programme/Quelle_proc%C3%A9dure_pour_ouvrir_ou_fermer_un_projet_%3F <nowiki>[5]</nowiki>, see section 5] as well as a draft proposal to close all languages of Wikinews[https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Talk:Proposals_for_closing_projects/Archive_2#Close_Wikinews_completely,_all_languages? <nowiki>[6]</nowiki>]. [[:c:File:Sister Projects Taskforce Wikinews review 2024.pdf|Initial metrics]] compiled by WMF staff also support the community's concerns about Wikinews. Based on this report, SPTF recommends a community reevaluation of Wikinews. We conclude that its current structure and activity levels are the lowest among the existing sister projects. SPTF also recommends pausing the opening of new language editions while the consultation runs. SPTF brings this analysis to a discussion and welcomes discussions of alternative outcomes, including potential restructuring efforts or integration with other Wikimedia initiatives. '''Options''' mentioned so far (which might be applied to just low-activity languages or all languages) include but are not limited to: *Restructure how Wikinews works and is linked to other current events efforts on the projects, *Merge the content of Wikinews into the relevant language Wikipedias, possibly in a new namespace, *Merge content into compatibly licensed external projects, *Archive Wikinews projects. Your insights and perspectives are invaluable in shaping the future of these projects. We encourage all interested community members to share their thoughts on the relevant discussion pages or through other designated feedback channels. === Feedback and next steps === We'd be grateful if you want to take part in a conversation on the future of these projects and the review process. We are setting up two different project pages: [[m:Public consultation about Wikispore|Public consultation about Wikispore]] and [[m:Public consultation about Wikinews|Public consultation about Wikinews]]. Please participate between 27 June 2025 and 27 July 2025, after which we will summarize the discussion to move forward. You can write in your own language. I will also host a community conversation 16th July Wednesday 11.00 UTC and 17th July Thursday 17.00 UTC (call links to follow shortly) and will be around at Wikimania for more discussions. <section end="message"/> -- [[User:Victoria|Victoria]] on behalf of the Sister Project Task Force, 20:57, 27 June 2025 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:Johan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Johan_(WMF)/Sister_project_MassMassage_on_behalf_of_Victoria/Target_list&oldid=28911188 --> :I definitely hate to say it but Wikinews has to be one of the most failed WMF projects. The English Wikinews is barely sustaining and I think that is fine for the timebeing, but the other Wikinews projects simply lack the editor base to actively review new news articles. It came up in tawikinews' closure proposal where their newest article dated to 2018! //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:56, 28 June 2025 (UTC) ::I think that we're meant to post that kind of thing on the Meta-Wiki project pages: [[metawiki:Public consultation about Wikispore|Public consultation about Wikispore]] and [[metawiki:Public consultation about Wikinews|Public consultation about Wikinews]]. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 22:42, 28 June 2025 (UTC) :::I'm aware; I just wanted to give out my 2c in short form – I have a longer list of suggestions planned which I'll do when I get a bit more spare time. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:44, 28 June 2025 (UTC) === General concerns === I am not a big fan of Wikinews, but one thing about the [[:meta:Proposal_for_Closing_Wikinews|report published by Sister Projects Task Force]] is concerning. This report is written in a very critical manner, namely, it does not mention that dozens if not hundreds of volunteers have spent a considerable amount of their time on developing Wikinews. The report does not mention any single good thing about their work, which does not seem fair. The report demonstrates that the current level of activity and content development at Wikinews is low (and this statement is fair), but it does not set any threshold of what would be good enough metrics for a community to deserve the resources from WMF. Moreover, the report does not attempt to analyze which steps Wikinews editors took to develop their project, and why these steps were unsuccessful. It just says: you did a bad job, so we will close you down and even deprive you of any possibility of moving Wikinews elsewhere because the name stays with Wikimedia Foundation. Wikivoyage is a smaller project too, and it would be discouraging if a similarly critical report about our work appears. It is not completely unrealistic when half of the language versions are dormant, while many others are somewhat comparable in their metrics to the most active editions of Wikinews. I think that only English Wikivoyage is clearly above that threshold, although the actual threshold is not even defined, so almost any level of activity can be deemed "low" if one wants to say so. What are your thoughts on that? --[[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 09:53, 28 June 2025 (UTC) :I have not been using Wikinews, so my reflections are based on the closure of Wikinews in Swedish and the current discussion, linked above. One point raised in the discussion is that the metrics chosen didn't take into account the special nature of the project. :I assume the Sister Project Task Force is right in that this kind of evaluations need to be done from time to time, but also think that the evaluations should focus on whether there are paths forward, rather than on whether the project is viable according to current trends. :Wikinews has the problem that a significant dedicated editor base i needed – Wikipedia or even Wikivoyage can stay alive and stay interesting even with no edits for a year or two, while a news outlet would loose nearly all of its readers. The coverage needs to be adequate on at least some areas (geographic or thematic) for the site to stay interesting. The critical mass needed is much larger – and that critical mass additionally needs to be able to counter people with a bias (good-faith or not) or with an agenda not aligned with the project goals – keeping touting at bay is much easier. I assume new language versions should be started only if there is hope of quickly building that critical mass. :–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 10:36, 28 June 2025 (UTC) ::Yes I do believe that LangCom has decided to suspend the creation of all new Wikinews projects for that very reason. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:46, 28 June 2025 (UTC) :Alexander, it's true "that dozens if not hundreds of volunteers have spent a considerable amount of their time on developing Wikinews", but it's also true that keeping a failing project because of past efforts is an example of [[w:en:Sunk cost fallacy]]. :I suspect that if someone made a credible proposal to move Wikinews to another host, the WMF would be be open to negotiations over the name. (But any new sponsor might prefer to come up with their own name.) [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 03:31, 29 June 2025 (UTC) ::I guess my main problem is the absence of any well-defined criteria that distinguish a sustainable project from a failing one. Do you understand what these criteria are? -- [[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 08:35, 29 June 2025 (UTC) :::A well-defined criteria that defines what a sustainable project would still heavily rely on how the project functions, though. For Wikinews, it needs to be very active and metrics that may be appropriate for Wikivoyage or Wikibooks like number of articles aren't super relevant because 20000 articles is no good if the last one was written 2 months ago (the numbers are hypothetical but my point stands). //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:50, 29 June 2025 (UTC) ::::I agree that the same metrics can not be applied to all sister projects, but "very active" leaves a lot of room for interpretation. Imagine someone decides that Wikivoyage is not sustainable because it contains a lot of outdated travel information that has not been updated in the last 5 years. That would be a problem... -- [[User:Atsirlin|Alexander]] ([[User_talk:Atsirlin|talk]]) 09:27, 29 June 2025 (UTC) :::::We don't want well-defined criteria. There needs to be judgement on the projects actual prospects. Opening a community discussion is good, as that's a way to see whether the metrics give a correct picture – although there should be discussions with the projects before opening a discussion like this (I don't know to what extent there have been such discussions). –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 20:13, 29 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::I still don't love the way the SPTF decided to mass-send these messages to every wiki without consulting the Wikinews community; it really should be up to them (and when I mean them, I mean the more active Wikinews projects such as en or ruwikinews) to decide their project's future, not the rest of us or the vast majority who don't get involved with Wikinews. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:01, 29 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::Yes. The issues should have been raised with the projects first (not only the big ones, but all projects affected). I don't know whether that was done, but seemingly not enough, anyway. It seems the SPTF (?) wanted to introduce a more general practice of re-evaluating projects, and just chose the two as examples. They should have understood that doing it that way, without consultations, would upset people. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 06:40, 30 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::TBF, there were several closure proposals before, including one for all language Wikinews. Those for major projects failed, but one can argue that this was a signal to the communities to evaluate their performance which they apparently did not get. I agree though that opening such discussion before notifying the Wikinews communities first is not really good. [[User:Ymblanter|Ymblanter]] ([[User talk:Ymblanter|talk]]) 08:54, 30 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::They definitely should have; I hope they use this as a learning lesson because the general sentiment from the enwikinews community is quite clearly unimpressed from that discussion. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:01, 30 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::::Well this comment certainly [[:m:Talk:Public_consultation_about_Wikinews#c-Victoria-20250630095300-BRPever-20250629141600|aged like milk]]. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:59, 30 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::Oh dear. I hope there are others in the SPTF who are more keen-eared. This risks degenerating into one more of the WMF-not-respecting-the-community affairs. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:40, 1 July 2025 (UTC) :::::::::::SPTF (or Victoria, at the very least) seems so predetermined to close Wikinews that I've never heard something so blatantly biased such as "However, I expect that the wikinewsians would be in COI" – so to them I assume knowing the ins and outs of your own project is apparently a conflict of interest? It's a massive insult to non-Wikipedia based projects. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:04, 1 July 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::::I can understand her view, but I think it is misguided, and somebody in her team should get them to discuss their actual mission. If a project indeed needs to be laid down, the process needs to be lead very sensitively – and the consultation in this phase shouldn't be on whether to lay Wikinews down. It is "to work through and demonstrate the review process", "a community reevaluation" and "potential restructuring efforts". ::::::::::::The demonstration of the process has been a disaster and potential restructuring efforts require a good understanding of he project, which cannot be had without a keen-eared discussion with the communities. ::::::::::::The "re-evaluation" should be based on such potential restructuring paths, where restructuring isn't about where to dump the Wikinews content, but how to save the project, if possible. ::::::::::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:13, 1 July 2025 (UTC) :::::::::::::I fully agree with you about about the "re-evaluation" but the way they have been responding to community feedback feels as though they have the result pre-determined and this is merely being used as a box ticking exercise – which is why I think it's crucial that we as a fellow sister project speak up about the way this was poorly handled because who knows what they will do when it's our turn to undergo public consultations. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 14:04, 1 July 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::::::I wrote about some concerns in [[:meta:Talk:Public consultation about Wikinews#Process and analysis seem flawed]]. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 21:34, 1 July 2025 (UTC) :::::::::::::::Cheers, {{u|LPfi}}; hopefully our project will be fine (I think it will because Wikivoyage or really any other WMF project does not have the same issues as Wikinews does of requiring an active community), but more feedback is certainly better. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:49, 2 July 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::Whereas I agree that the process it to some extend flawed (and I agree with the points LPfi makes in the response on Meta), it would be useful to see whether some metrics used for analysis (in whatever flawed way) could be improved for Wikivoyage, so that they are out of discussion. [[User:Ymblanter|Ymblanter]] ([[User talk:Ymblanter|talk]]) 08:18, 2 July 2025 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::{{Ping|Victoria}} as primary author and for what I think is trenchant feedback: to the extent that this taskforce is assessing the sibling projects, it would be helpful if the individual communities knew what kind of rubric there is to grade their health. —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 19:55, 2 July 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::::First of all, the Taskforce in not assessing '''all''' siblings projects, the Wikispore/Wikinews was a proof-of-concept exercise. ::::::::::::::::::We used [[metawiki:Wikimedia_Foundation_Community_Affairs_Committee/Procedure_for_Sibling_Project_Lifecycle/revised|this rubric]], which was discussed in a public consultation a year ago - but didn't get much attention, because Meta is littered with documents that are never implemented. ::::::::::::::::::In the [[metawiki:Wikimedia_Foundation_Community_Affairs_Committee/Procedure_for_Sibling_Project_Lifecycle/revise|Wikispore consultation]] we ask for the proposals for the clarification of the "activity" and other criteria. [[User:Victoria|Victoria]] ([[User talk:Victoria|talk]]) 09:11, 3 July 2025 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::::Thanks for this and thanks for letting me ping-pong you around various WMF projects with pings. —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 09:38, 3 July 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::::::You are welcome. I'm happy to answer anywhere in English/Russian/Belarusian when there's no personal attacks involved. [[User:Victoria|Victoria]] ([[User talk:Victoria|talk]]) 10:15, 3 July 2025 (UTC) :::::I've been going through some of the stats, and "very active" is an interesting point. The defenders of the "very active" Wikinews language editions seem to be engaged overwhelmingly in copying/pasting content from suitably licensed external sites. They have turned Wikinews into mirrors for other sites, rather than writing articles. :::::Just imagine how we at Wikivoyage would react if someone here said "I am a very active Wikivoyage editor. I spend at least an hour a day copying and pasting pages from other travel websites!" [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 21:34, 2 July 2025 (UTC) ::::::We do copy info from hotel websites and other sources, but we don't have the luxury of reliable free content written in our style. Being a channel for reliable news ''could'' be a mission of Wikinews (more or less the same way some "social media" sites do it). If so, the question is whether they can do it well enough for it to be worthwhile as a WMF project (and whether the other things they do are done well). But that's not the discussion the SPTF initiated, they chose to go by statistics instead. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 22:12, 2 July 2025 (UTC) :::::::It was mentioned somewhere that the stats may be skewed by bots – I'm still confused on how you'd be able to tell if the stats were skewed by bots or not. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:11, 2 July 2025 (UTC) ::::::::Most bots, especially most big ones, do have an appropriate user agent field in their page request, so the server logs can be used to tell apart at least those. With more advanced techniques, you can also distinguish typical bot behaviour from that of human users. There are some grey areas (such as a human using a tool other than a typical web browser, or using some script through the browser, and bots configured to look like humans), but I don't think it is impossible to get quite an accurate and reliable picture of bot vs human traffic. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 10:37, 3 July 2025 (UTC) :::::::::Very interesting to know – I suppose you can tell by things like sudden influx in page views as one example but yeah unless you told me I wouldn't be specifically able to pick it out. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:42, 3 July 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::From aggregated data, some patterns can be recognised as probably bot-caused, but to know for certain, you have to check the user agent fields, and where ordinary user agents cause bot-like patterns, you have to analyse behaviour of individual traffic sources – not trivial if somebody is really trying to hide their bot as multiple human users. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 10:54, 3 July 2025 (UTC) :::::::LPfi, I'm not talking about copying "information"; I'm talking about copying entire pages, word-for-word. :::::::We ''do'' have copy-able options; there are multiple travel websites with appropriate copyright licenses. You know what happens to any editor who decides to "help" by copying from Wikitravel. Look at https://travel.fandom.com/wiki/Travel_Wiki whose pages are similar in style but with different section headings. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:39, 3 July 2025 (UTC) == Archive links invisible in mobile mode == Why? When I look in edit mode, I can see links to archives in [[Talk:China]], but not when I simply look at that talk page. Will Wikivoyage in mobile mode ever not suck? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:30, 29 June 2025 (UTC) :I can't answer your first question, but the answer to your latter question, as we both know, is never (we are a massive afterthought for the WMF). //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:51, 29 June 2025 (UTC) ::In which case, we will eventually read that the Wikimedia Foundation dropped Wikivoyage from lack of sufficient participation. Would we be able to fork in that case, or does Wikimedia own the copyright for Wikivoyage as they do for Wikinews? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:09, 29 June 2025 (UTC) :::Each individual editor, including IPs/logged-out editors, owns the copyright to whatever copyrightable material they post on wiki. The Wikimedia Foundation owns the domain names and the trademarks (e.g., name and logo). Anyone who wants to fork can do so freely. The Wikimedia Foundation will sometimes even informally help people do so. The mobile site does have the links to the archives. Click on the "(i) Learn more about this page" button at the top of the page to find the "invisible" content. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 03:27, 29 June 2025 (UTC) :::{{ping|Ikan Kekek}} Please don't be that fearful when Wikinews is proposed to be shut down or merged with Wikipedia. I wanted to work in the Bengali Wikinews Incubator project, but my lack of activity in recent weeks has prevented me from participating further. So, I have focused on Commons and Wikivoyage, where I am still highly active. I don't think the SPTF would suggest something similar for Wikivoyage, and I think it is actually a popular website. My static map of [[West Bengal]] is now widely shared on Facebook (both English and Bengali versions), along with an AI-generated list of places to visit in the state. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 03:35, 29 June 2025 (UTC) ::::You are a superb Wikivoyage content creator! I'm not afraid in the very near term, but usage of all websites nowadays has to be mostly mobile, so if this site's mobile interface remains terrible, its eventual demise is a foregone conclusion. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:44, 29 June 2025 (UTC) :::::Are you refering to the archive links that appear when I click "more about this page" at the top? :::::The issues with the mobile site exist as this project does not have '''active interface admins.''' :::::Note: The WMF has nothing to do with the content or presentation of content for this site. :::::Relevant links: :::::* https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Extension:WikimediaMessages#Site_admin_helper :::::* https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Recommendations_for_mobile_friendly_articles_on_Wikimedia_wikis :::::[[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 03:09, 30 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::Yes, "Learn more about this page." I didn't know to click that. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:27, 30 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::I don't see why the WMF would have nothing to do with presentation of content on Wikivoyage. We are using MediaWiki and settings provided by the WMF, and we indeed are a WMF project. ::::::Not having active interface admins (I thought we have some) shouldn't mean too much – having technically knowledgable people locally is a bonus, it (and them dedicating time to do major work) shouldn't be a prerequisite for a WMF project. ::::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 06:51, 30 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::We do indeed have 5 [[Wikivoyage:Interface administrators]], which [[User:Jdlrobson]] should know, because he is one of them. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:01, 30 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::::I am an interface admin but I would not consider myself active. Maintenance of the listing editor for example causes me more anxiety than enjoyment these days. ::::::::In my time in this project I have seen quite a few complaints about the mobile experience but nobody has articulated clearly what needs improving. I personally dont think that overall it is a bad experience and the fact most of our page views are on mobile should be reassuring. That said there are templates like climate data that I think could be improved on mobile. ::::::::If you really want to improve the mobile experience I'd recommend making a wiki page with discussion of changes, proposal/consensus and then implementing them. I havent seen this sort of thing since [[Wikivoyage:Banner Expedition]]. I guarantee the majority of changes you want do not need WMF involvement but they will require discussion and community consultation. [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 15:53, 1 July 2025 (UTC) :::::::::Wauterz is certainly active. Have you ever tried adding a listing or reverting more than one edit at a time in mobile mode? I'm sure we can compile a list of badness from the mobile interface. Where is the best page to put it on? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 16:25, 1 July 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::{{u|Andyrom75}} is also fairly active on itwikivoyage. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:18, 1 July 2025 (UTC) :::::::::::To answer the very first question of @[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]], I've noticed that the infobox has a "display:none" style that hide those boxes in mobile view. I think this style is added serverside (maybe @[[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] you can confirm), because it's not added by the template neither by the templatestyles. :::::::::::However, as said from @[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]], you can still see it clicking on the "(i)" button. [[User:Andyrom75|<span style="color:#BB0000; font-family:Papyrus; font-size:12px">'''Andyrom75'''</span>]] ([[User talk:Andyrom75|talk]]) 17:09, 2 July 2025 (UTC) :::::::::In the example you have provided the archive links provided here could be shown at the top of the page as on desktop and would be a single line change to Template:Infobox (adding the ext-discussiontools-emptystate class). We have to tell the software how to behave. :::::::::That said doing this looks really bad IMO as it makes every talk page require considerable scrolling to get to the content so personally as someone who primarily uses mobile I would oppose that change. The archive links as they currently behave work perfectly well for me. :::::::::Perhaps placing a single link "view archives" there that reveals them would be a good compromise to make this more obvious via some minor changes to the template? [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 04:05, 6 July 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::Yeah, I think the text "View archives" would be really helpful. We really need to take you up on the offer to put up a litany of Wikivoyage Mobile badness up on some page, but no-one has suggested a good place for it. Do you have any ideas? I see there's no [[Wikivoyage:Mobile version]] page. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:57, 6 July 2025 (UTC) :::::::::::I'm not sure what the status quo is but I would just be bold and create it: [[Wikivoyage:Mobile version]]. :::::::::::Let's see if anyone is interested in collaborating and see what evolves. [[User:Jdlrobson|Jdlrobson]] ([[User talk:Jdlrobson|talk]]) 22:24, 6 July 2025 (UTC) == Offline app for Wikimania == Hi everyone, we ([[Kiwix]]) are planning to make an offline app based off WikiVoyage content that people could download ahead of Wikimania (taking place this year in Nairobi). The organizers would like us to add a couple of pages from the Wikimania Wiki [https://wikimania.wikimedia.org/wiki/2025:Travel] [https://wikimania.wikimedia.org/wiki/2025:Visas_and_Vaccines][https://wikimania.wikimedia.org/wiki/2025:Hotels_and_Airfare_Discounts][https://wikimania.wikimedia.org/wiki/2025:Explore_Kenya], but we can't build a ZIM file off two separate locations. My idea at this stage would be to copy these here somewhere. Where do you think would be best / least problematic? Thanks, [[User:The other Kiwix guy|The other Kiwix guy]] ([[User talk:The other Kiwix guy|talk]]) 13:29, 3 July 2025 (UTC) :Could it be in the Project: namespace (e.g., [[Wikivoyage:Wikimania 2025]] and subpages)? [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:42, 3 July 2025 (UTC) :See [[Past events/Wikimania 2018 Cape Town Guidebook]] (which would have been [[Wikimania 2018 Cape Town Guidebook]] during the event) for how we have done it in the past. There was also [[Wikimania 2014 London Guidebook]], but that was merged and redirected into [[London/City of London]]. I don't think that Project space is appropriate for such a guide, so I would suggest [[Wikimania 2025 Nairobi Guidebook]], with subpages if required. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 20:15, 3 July 2025 (UTC) ::Perfect, thanks a lot. [[User:The other Kiwix guy|The other Kiwix guy]] ([[User talk:The other Kiwix guy|talk]]) 12:19, 4 July 2025 (UTC) ==Requests for comment notification== Please be notified that there is a request for comment on Meta about paid editing and advanced rights, at [[metawiki:Requests_for_comment/Should_paid_editing_as_a_CU_be_allowed|m:Requests for comment/Should paid editing as a CU be allowed]]. You can voice your concerns regarding the topic. This message is to notify those who haven't made comments in this RFC. For those who have made comments there, you can ignore this message. '''Please do not reply to this message.''' <span style="font-family:SimSun; color:#000000;">〈[[User:HingWahStreet|興]][[User_talk:HingWahStreet|華]][[special:contributions/HingWahStreet|街]]〉</span>[[c:User:HingWahStreet/Contributed projects|📅]][[c:User:HingWahStreet/Signatures|❓]] 08:43, 4 July 2025 (UTC) :{{re|HingWahStreet}} I don't see this being relevant to this project; no Wikivoyage project in any language has CUs for this to matter. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:11, 4 July 2025 (UTC) ::@[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] Sorry I don't know about this. <span style="font-family:SimSun; color:#000000;">〈[[User:HingWahStreet|興]][[User_talk:HingWahStreet|華]][[special:contributions/HingWahStreet|街]]〉</span>[[c:User:HingWahStreet/Contributed projects|📅]][[c:User:HingWahStreet/Signatures|❓]] 09:45, 4 July 2025 (UTC) :::@[[User:HingWahStreet|HingWahStreet]]: Well I asked because [https://imgur.com/a/anAO0IZ you only left a message on this project] (as per [https://guc.toolforge.org/?by=date&user=HingWahStreet GUC check]) – I get if you wanted to send this to all projects (which I also wouldn't do but who am I to stop you from doing so), but the only project you sent this to doesn't even have CUs. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:52, 4 July 2025 (UTC) ::::@[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] You mean only CUs (not others) can join the discussion? <span style="font-family:SimSun; color:#000000;">〈[[User:HingWahStreet|興]][[User_talk:HingWahStreet|華]][[special:contributions/HingWahStreet|街]]〉</span>[[c:User:HingWahStreet/Contributed projects|📅]][[c:User:HingWahStreet/Signatures|❓]] 13:36, 4 July 2025 (UTC) :::::@[[User:HingWahStreet|HingWahStreet]]: No, I never said that – what I'm trying to convey that only notifying enwikivoyage for an RfC that doesn't even remotely affect this project is what got me wondering. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:40, 4 July 2025 (UTC) :The story here: A CU on a small Wikipedia recently created a business to write Wikipedia articles. This has made some people suddenly realize that CUs are not officially prohibited from being "paid editors". They propose that CUs be banned from having some paid editing jobs (e.g., writing articles for companies) but not others (e.g., writing articles for an art museum). :I doubt that it will make any difference to us, and I doubt that it will make much difference overall. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:48, 4 July 2025 (UTC) ::I may be mistaken, but I believe HingwahStreet has a bit of a history with Bojan (the srwiki CU involved with paid editing), too (not that it matters for the outcome of this RfC). //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:01, 4 July 2025 (UTC) :Saved you a click: CU == Checkuser [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 18:29, 7 July 2025 (UTC) ::But wait wtf is a checkuser [[User:Brycehughes|Brycehughes]] ([[User talk:Brycehughes|talk]]) 18:37, 7 July 2025 (UTC) :::Checkusers are a small group of users on some wikis that have access to tools that reveal IP address info of usernames. We haven't found the need to appoint any. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 21:12, 7 July 2025 (UTC) ::::There is an argument to be made that this wiki can have CUs and there is a benefit to that, but as the person who's made all this wiki's [[m:SRCU|SRCU]] requests since 2022, I consider that stewards doing our CU checks are sufficient enough for the timebeing. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:58, 8 July 2025 (UTC) :::[[:m:CheckUser]]. —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 22:03, 7 July 2025 (UTC) == PSA: bureaucrats can now verify if a user has 2FA enabled == (cc {{ping|Ikan Kekek|ThunderingTyphoons!}}) [[Special:VerifyOATHForUser]] now exists for bureaucrats as well. There isn't much of a use case, but it is a WMF requirement that all interface admins have 2FA enabled; this new change means that were any new IAs to be appointed, you can actually check instead of relying on word of mouth. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:02, 8 July 2025 (UTC) == San Juan (Puerto Rico) Get Around clean-up help needed == Hi, I just did a major edit on the San Juan (Puerto Rico) page. Within "Get Around", there was a big block of info about buses under "By public transportation", and another big block of somewhat repetitive info under "By bus". (And the other public transport info is under By Train, By Ferry, etc.) I merged the two sections into one hopefully coherent block, and put it under "By bus". But the system won't let me delete "By Public Transportation" - it says that's a harmful edit (even though the content is now redundant). Can someone please help clean up by removing "By Public Transportation"? Thanks!! [[Special:Contributions/2604:B000:A217:FF41:C1DA:4A9C:9D3C:9EB5|2604:B000:A217:FF41:C1DA:4A9C:9D3C:9EB5]] 15:09, 8 July 2025 (UTC) Update: It did let me edit the "By public transportation" section down to a single paragraph instead of deleting it entirely. I still think the section should be deleted, but at least there's not a massive duplication of content from my previous merge. : I think you can do the edit by yourself. New or non-logged-in users aren't allowed to remove too much content in a single edit, with some exceptions (such as article template comments, self-created pages and some specific types of garbage). You hit that limit. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 16:20, 9 July 2025 (UTC) 0888wkyf53uk9bz50vm1y3mgppqwqdi 5 69601 5090834 5064880 2025-07-10T13:42:57Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles */ new section 5090834 wikitext text/x-wiki {{infobox|Archived discussions |* [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2004-2013]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2014-2019]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2020-2024]] }} == Broken redirects == I hope this is an uncontroversial addition because we have basically been speedily deleting broken redirects for obvious reasons in the past. However, I hope the wording I added was okay because blindly deleting every page on [[Special:BrokenRedirects]] is a bad idea due to MediaWiki's technical shortcomings – does the wording come across clearly? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:39, 1 February 2025 (UTC) == User pages of touts == There is an ongoing discussion relevant to this policy: [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]] It will probably lead to changes to this policy. Please check the discussion and share your view. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:39, 17 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedy deleting user pages of touts == {{swept}} There is a discussion in [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]]. It seems that we have a practice of speedy deleting user pages of touts, which isn't documented is [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy#Speedy deletions]]. I assume that means that the policy should be amended. The question is whether any user page with promotional content can be speedily deleted at sight, or whether there needs to be some consideration of the specifics of the user page content or the user's contributions. If there is admin discretion involved, we should probably have some guidance. At the moment, the discussion is about whether preserving a user page can be required for attribution purposes, or whether attributing the username itself suffices legally (in cases where the user's contributions are copyrightable, and we thus need to respect the licence). Other issues should also be discussed. Please share your insights and opinions in the linked thread. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:26, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles == It has come up more recently on [[Talk:Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] and in a few VfD nominations that shouldn't need 14 days of discussion simply to delete, but this proposal in a simple nutshell is allowing any page in [[:Category:Stub articles]] to be speedily deleted after 7 days of no edits. This is very similar to what enwikibooks does with abandoned stubs – many of which have unclear scopes and are poorly integrated with their respective book structures in a similar way that many [[Wikivoyage:Stub articles|stubs]] aren't integrated well with Wikivoyage's article structure. For clarity, this does '''not''' address abandoned outline articles. This is specific to articles tagged with {{tl|stub}}. Beyond poor integration with article strucutre, there are a few other benefits to speedily deleting abandoned stubs: * In the long run, it encourages users to actually use the standard Wikivoyage headings when creating a new article (the wording of the newarticletext header can be reworded if this proposal gains consensus). * A VfD takes an unreasonably long time – not only does it take 14 days (which is already quite high), but factoring in an undefined grace period (which is usually about a month from the VfDs I've started), such stubs can end up being left as-is for 1–2 months. * Because of the unreasonably long process it takes for them to be deleted, it leaves the onus of trying to integrate them with other articles up to other users, most of whom are not familiar with the place – all to save minimal, if any, travel content that is very negligible. * Redirecting such destinations is also unfavourable because it is both: :*a) easier for a new user to create an article from a red link; :*b) less [[WV:TTCF|intuitive for readers]] as they woulld expect for the article where the redirect points to have reasonable content about that destination that was redirected. Stubs, however, don't have reasonable content. As a first draft, I propose we add this clause to our deletion policy: {{blockquote|Articles tagged with {{tl|stub}} may be considered for speedy deletion if, after a period of seven days, they appear to have been abandoned and contain little to no substantive or salvageable content. Deleting admins are expected to exercise extreme discretion: if alternative actions, such as converting the page to a redirect, merging it into a more comprehensive article, or upgrading its status, would serve the project better, those options should be pursued in preference to deletion.}} As for how to implement this, I am reasonably confident that we can use the same category mechanisms that enwikibooks uses quite easily so implementation is not an issue. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:42, 10 July 2025 (UTC) bmk44pcb8r7udkksyb2crxmw49ohkri 5090841 5090834 2025-07-10T13:49:22Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles */ 5090841 wikitext text/x-wiki {{infobox|Archived discussions |* [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2004-2013]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2014-2019]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2020-2024]] }} == Broken redirects == I hope this is an uncontroversial addition because we have basically been speedily deleting broken redirects for obvious reasons in the past. However, I hope the wording I added was okay because blindly deleting every page on [[Special:BrokenRedirects]] is a bad idea due to MediaWiki's technical shortcomings – does the wording come across clearly? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:39, 1 February 2025 (UTC) == User pages of touts == There is an ongoing discussion relevant to this policy: [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]] It will probably lead to changes to this policy. Please check the discussion and share your view. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:39, 17 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedy deleting user pages of touts == {{swept}} There is a discussion in [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]]. It seems that we have a practice of speedy deleting user pages of touts, which isn't documented is [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy#Speedy deletions]]. I assume that means that the policy should be amended. The question is whether any user page with promotional content can be speedily deleted at sight, or whether there needs to be some consideration of the specifics of the user page content or the user's contributions. If there is admin discretion involved, we should probably have some guidance. At the moment, the discussion is about whether preserving a user page can be required for attribution purposes, or whether attributing the username itself suffices legally (in cases where the user's contributions are copyrightable, and we thus need to respect the licence). Other issues should also be discussed. Please share your insights and opinions in the linked thread. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:26, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles == It has come up more recently on [[Talk:Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] and in a few VfD nominations that shouldn't need 14 days of discussion simply to delete, but this proposal in a simple nutshell is allowing any page in [[:Category:Stub articles]] to be speedily deleted after 7 days of no edits. This is very similar to what enwikibooks does with abandoned stubs – many of which have unclear scopes and are poorly integrated with their respective book structures in a similar way that many [[Wikivoyage:Stub articles|stubs]] aren't integrated well with Wikivoyage's article structure. For clarity, this does '''not''' address abandoned outline articles. This is specific to articles tagged with {{tl|stub}}. Beyond poor integration with article strucutre, there are a few other benefits to speedily deleting abandoned stubs: * In the long run, it encourages users to actually use the standard Wikivoyage headings when creating a new article (the wording of the newarticletext header can be reworded if this proposal gains consensus). * A VfD takes an unreasonably long time – not only does it take 14 days (which is already quite high), but factoring in an undefined grace period (which is usually about a month from the VfDs I've started), such stubs can end up being left as-is for 1–2 months. * Because of the unreasonably long process it takes for them to be deleted, it leaves the onus of trying to integrate them with other articles up to other users, most of whom are not familiar with the place – all to save minimal, if any, travel content that is very negligible. * Redirecting such destinations is also unfavourable because it is both: :*a) easier for a new user to create an article from a red link; :*b) less [[WV:TTCF|intuitive for readers]] as they woulld expect for the article where the redirect points to have reasonable content about that destination that was redirected. Stubs, however, don't have reasonable content. As a first draft, I propose we add this clause to our deletion policy: {{blockquote|Articles tagged with {{tl|stub}} may be speedy deleted if, after a period of seven days, they appear to have been abandoned and contain little to no substantive or salvageable content. Deleting admins are expected to exercise extreme discretion: if alternative actions, such as converting the page to a redirect, merging it into a more comprehensive article, or upgrading its status, would serve the project better, those options should be pursued in preference to deletion.}} As for how to implement this, I am reasonably confident that we can use the same category mechanisms that enwikibooks uses quite easily so implementation is not an issue. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:42, 10 July 2025 (UTC) lbpn84u7uheju031dd23tyns4e74rhi 5090921 5090841 2025-07-10T15:27:05Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles */ 5090921 wikitext text/x-wiki {{infobox|Archived discussions |* [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2004-2013]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2014-2019]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2020-2024]] }} == Broken redirects == I hope this is an uncontroversial addition because we have basically been speedily deleting broken redirects for obvious reasons in the past. However, I hope the wording I added was okay because blindly deleting every page on [[Special:BrokenRedirects]] is a bad idea due to MediaWiki's technical shortcomings – does the wording come across clearly? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:39, 1 February 2025 (UTC) == User pages of touts == There is an ongoing discussion relevant to this policy: [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]] It will probably lead to changes to this policy. Please check the discussion and share your view. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:39, 17 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedy deleting user pages of touts == {{swept}} There is a discussion in [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]]. It seems that we have a practice of speedy deleting user pages of touts, which isn't documented is [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy#Speedy deletions]]. I assume that means that the policy should be amended. The question is whether any user page with promotional content can be speedily deleted at sight, or whether there needs to be some consideration of the specifics of the user page content or the user's contributions. If there is admin discretion involved, we should probably have some guidance. At the moment, the discussion is about whether preserving a user page can be required for attribution purposes, or whether attributing the username itself suffices legally (in cases where the user's contributions are copyrightable, and we thus need to respect the licence). Other issues should also be discussed. Please share your insights and opinions in the linked thread. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:26, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles == It has come up more recently on [[Talk:Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] and in a few VfD nominations that shouldn't need 14 days of discussion simply to delete, but this proposal in a simple nutshell is allowing any page in [[:Category:Stub articles]] to be speedily deleted after 7 days of no edits. This is very similar to what enwikibooks does with abandoned stubs – many of which have unclear scopes and are poorly integrated with their respective book structures in a similar way that many [[Wikivoyage:Stub articles|stubs]] aren't integrated well with Wikivoyage's article structure. For clarity, this does '''not''' address abandoned outline articles. This is specific to articles tagged with {{tl|stub}}. Beyond poor integration with article strucutre, there are a few other benefits to speedily deleting abandoned stubs: * In the long run, it encourages users to actually use the standard Wikivoyage headings when creating a new article (the wording of the newarticletext header can be reworded if this proposal gains consensus). * A VfD takes an unreasonably long time – not only does it take 14 days (which is already quite high), but factoring in an undefined grace period (which is usually about a month from the VfDs I've started), such stubs can end up being left as-is for 1–2 months. * Because of the unreasonably long process it takes for them to be deleted, it leaves the onus of trying to integrate them with other articles up to other users, most of whom are not familiar with the place – all to save minimal, if any, travel content that is very negligible. * Redirecting such destinations is also unfavourable because it is both: :*a) easier for a new user to create an article from a red link; :*b) less [[WV:TTCF|intuitive for readers]] as they woulld expect for the article where the redirect points to have reasonable content about that destination that was redirected. Stubs, however, don't have reasonable content. As a first draft, I propose we add this clause to our deletion policy: {{blockquote|Articles tagged with {{tl|stub}} may be speedy deleted if, after a period of seven days, they appear to have been abandoned and contain little to no substantive or salvageable content. Deleting admins are expected to exercise extreme discretion: if alternative actions, such as converting the page to a redirect, merging it into a more comprehensive article, or upgrading its status, would serve the project better, those options should be pursued in preference to deletion.}} As for how to implement this, I am reasonably confident that we can use the same category mechanisms that enwikibooks uses quite easily so implementation is not an issue. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:42, 10 July 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} although I disagree in the case of [[Hồ Tràm]], which took little time to clean up, in the of stubs that have no travel content and were created bya passer-by in 30 seconds, going through a two-week process that takes up contributors' time in discussion is not an efficent way of dealing with such articles. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:27, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ohvig5wmef8wbb5uh48strrgnocokml 5090981 5090921 2025-07-10T17:41:06Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles */ Reply 5090981 wikitext text/x-wiki {{infobox|Archived discussions |* [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2004-2013]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2014-2019]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2020-2024]] }} == Broken redirects == I hope this is an uncontroversial addition because we have basically been speedily deleting broken redirects for obvious reasons in the past. However, I hope the wording I added was okay because blindly deleting every page on [[Special:BrokenRedirects]] is a bad idea due to MediaWiki's technical shortcomings – does the wording come across clearly? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:39, 1 February 2025 (UTC) == User pages of touts == There is an ongoing discussion relevant to this policy: [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]] It will probably lead to changes to this policy. Please check the discussion and share your view. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:39, 17 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedy deleting user pages of touts == {{swept}} There is a discussion in [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]]. It seems that we have a practice of speedy deleting user pages of touts, which isn't documented is [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy#Speedy deletions]]. I assume that means that the policy should be amended. The question is whether any user page with promotional content can be speedily deleted at sight, or whether there needs to be some consideration of the specifics of the user page content or the user's contributions. If there is admin discretion involved, we should probably have some guidance. At the moment, the discussion is about whether preserving a user page can be required for attribution purposes, or whether attributing the username itself suffices legally (in cases where the user's contributions are copyrightable, and we thus need to respect the licence). Other issues should also be discussed. Please share your insights and opinions in the linked thread. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:26, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles == It has come up more recently on [[Talk:Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] and in a few VfD nominations that shouldn't need 14 days of discussion simply to delete, but this proposal in a simple nutshell is allowing any page in [[:Category:Stub articles]] to be speedily deleted after 7 days of no edits. This is very similar to what enwikibooks does with abandoned stubs – many of which have unclear scopes and are poorly integrated with their respective book structures in a similar way that many [[Wikivoyage:Stub articles|stubs]] aren't integrated well with Wikivoyage's article structure. For clarity, this does '''not''' address abandoned outline articles. This is specific to articles tagged with {{tl|stub}}. Beyond poor integration with article strucutre, there are a few other benefits to speedily deleting abandoned stubs: * In the long run, it encourages users to actually use the standard Wikivoyage headings when creating a new article (the wording of the newarticletext header can be reworded if this proposal gains consensus). * A VfD takes an unreasonably long time – not only does it take 14 days (which is already quite high), but factoring in an undefined grace period (which is usually about a month from the VfDs I've started), such stubs can end up being left as-is for 1–2 months. * Because of the unreasonably long process it takes for them to be deleted, it leaves the onus of trying to integrate them with other articles up to other users, most of whom are not familiar with the place – all to save minimal, if any, travel content that is very negligible. * Redirecting such destinations is also unfavourable because it is both: :*a) easier for a new user to create an article from a red link; :*b) less [[WV:TTCF|intuitive for readers]] as they woulld expect for the article where the redirect points to have reasonable content about that destination that was redirected. Stubs, however, don't have reasonable content. As a first draft, I propose we add this clause to our deletion policy: {{blockquote|Articles tagged with {{tl|stub}} may be speedy deleted if, after a period of seven days, they appear to have been abandoned and contain little to no substantive or salvageable content. Deleting admins are expected to exercise extreme discretion: if alternative actions, such as converting the page to a redirect, merging it into a more comprehensive article, or upgrading its status, would serve the project better, those options should be pursued in preference to deletion.}} As for how to implement this, I am reasonably confident that we can use the same category mechanisms that enwikibooks uses quite easily so implementation is not an issue. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:42, 10 July 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} although I disagree in the case of [[Hồ Tràm]], which took little time to clean up, in the of stubs that have no travel content and were created bya passer-by in 30 seconds, going through a two-week process that takes up contributors' time in discussion is not an efficent way of dealing with such articles. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:27, 10 July 2025 (UTC) *:Right, the fact that you cleaned it up like that suggests that the summary deletion of that article without discussion would have been a mistake. So how do we make sure that by supporting the proposed policy, we don't remove usable content that could reasonably be whipped into shape? Should the proposal be tweaked in some way? I don't think we should be too hasty to speedily delete stubs with content in them that are started by new users who don't understand Wikivoyage breadcrumb navigation, article templates or style. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:41, 10 July 2025 (UTC) iemq2mfc6d0cbu1jgyqfotc6dd3m2t0 5091074 5090981 2025-07-10T22:12:30Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles */ 5091074 wikitext text/x-wiki {{infobox|Archived discussions |* [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2004-2013]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2014-2019]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2020-2024]] }} == Broken redirects == I hope this is an uncontroversial addition because we have basically been speedily deleting broken redirects for obvious reasons in the past. However, I hope the wording I added was okay because blindly deleting every page on [[Special:BrokenRedirects]] is a bad idea due to MediaWiki's technical shortcomings – does the wording come across clearly? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:39, 1 February 2025 (UTC) == User pages of touts == There is an ongoing discussion relevant to this policy: [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]] It will probably lead to changes to this policy. Please check the discussion and share your view. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:39, 17 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedy deleting user pages of touts == {{swept}} There is a discussion in [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]]. It seems that we have a practice of speedy deleting user pages of touts, which isn't documented is [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy#Speedy deletions]]. I assume that means that the policy should be amended. The question is whether any user page with promotional content can be speedily deleted at sight, or whether there needs to be some consideration of the specifics of the user page content or the user's contributions. If there is admin discretion involved, we should probably have some guidance. At the moment, the discussion is about whether preserving a user page can be required for attribution purposes, or whether attributing the username itself suffices legally (in cases where the user's contributions are copyrightable, and we thus need to respect the licence). Other issues should also be discussed. Please share your insights and opinions in the linked thread. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:26, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles == It has come up more recently on [[Talk:Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] and in a few VfD nominations that shouldn't need 14 days of discussion simply to delete, but this proposal in a simple nutshell is allowing any page in [[:Category:Stub articles]] to be speedily deleted after 7 days of no edits. This is very similar to what enwikibooks does with abandoned stubs – many of which have unclear scopes and are poorly integrated with their respective book structures in a similar way that many [[Wikivoyage:Stub articles|stubs]] aren't integrated well with Wikivoyage's article structure. For clarity, this does '''not''' address abandoned outline articles. This is specific to articles tagged with {{tl|stub}}. Beyond poor integration with article strucutre, there are a few other benefits to speedily deleting abandoned stubs: * In the long run, it encourages users to actually use the standard Wikivoyage headings when creating a new article (the wording of the newarticletext header can be reworded if this proposal gains consensus). * A VfD takes an unreasonably long time – not only does it take 14 days (which is already quite high), but factoring in an undefined grace period (which is usually about a month from the VfDs I've started), such stubs can end up being left as-is for 1–2 months. * Because of the unreasonably long process it takes for them to be deleted, it leaves the onus of trying to integrate them with other articles up to other users, most of whom are not familiar with the place – all to save minimal, if any, travel content that is very negligible. * Redirecting such destinations is also unfavourable because it is both: :*a) easier for a new user to create an article from a red link; :*b) less [[WV:TTCF|intuitive for readers]] as they woulld expect for the article where the redirect points to have reasonable content about that destination that was redirected. Stubs, however, don't have reasonable content. As a first draft, I propose we add this clause to our deletion policy: {{blockquote|Articles tagged with {{tl|stub}} may be speedy deleted if, after a period of seven days, they appear to have been abandoned and contain little to no substantive or salvageable content. Deleting admins are expected to exercise extreme discretion: if alternative actions, such as converting the page to a redirect, merging it into a more comprehensive article, or upgrading its status, would serve the project better, those options should be pursued in preference to deletion.}} As for how to implement this, I am reasonably confident that we can use the same category mechanisms that enwikibooks uses quite easily so implementation is not an issue. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:42, 10 July 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} although I disagree in the case of [[Hồ Tràm]], which took little time to clean up, in the of stubs that have no travel content and were created bya passer-by in 30 seconds, going through a two-week process that takes up contributors' time in discussion is not an efficent way of dealing with such articles. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:27, 10 July 2025 (UTC) *:Right, the fact that you cleaned it up like that suggests that the summary deletion of that article without discussion would have been a mistake. So how do we make sure that by supporting the proposed policy, we don't remove usable content that could reasonably be whipped into shape? Should the proposal be tweaked in some way? I don't think we should be too hasty to speedily delete stubs with content in them that are started by new users who don't understand Wikivoyage breadcrumb navigation, article templates or style. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:41, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::That article was classified a stub because it had no headings. (It actually did, but they were not formatted as headings.) Perhaps this policy should be targeted to articles that have little or no travel information. I regularly delete on sight article that have the article template and nothing else as page creation vandalism. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:12, 10 July 2025 (UTC) kck017876legm051kyh4m7gga5uiy07 5091083 5091074 2025-07-10T22:36:53Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles */ Reply 5091083 wikitext text/x-wiki {{infobox|Archived discussions |* [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2004-2013]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2014-2019]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2020-2024]] }} == Broken redirects == I hope this is an uncontroversial addition because we have basically been speedily deleting broken redirects for obvious reasons in the past. However, I hope the wording I added was okay because blindly deleting every page on [[Special:BrokenRedirects]] is a bad idea due to MediaWiki's technical shortcomings – does the wording come across clearly? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:39, 1 February 2025 (UTC) == User pages of touts == There is an ongoing discussion relevant to this policy: [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]] It will probably lead to changes to this policy. Please check the discussion and share your view. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:39, 17 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedy deleting user pages of touts == {{swept}} There is a discussion in [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]]. It seems that we have a practice of speedy deleting user pages of touts, which isn't documented is [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy#Speedy deletions]]. I assume that means that the policy should be amended. The question is whether any user page with promotional content can be speedily deleted at sight, or whether there needs to be some consideration of the specifics of the user page content or the user's contributions. If there is admin discretion involved, we should probably have some guidance. At the moment, the discussion is about whether preserving a user page can be required for attribution purposes, or whether attributing the username itself suffices legally (in cases where the user's contributions are copyrightable, and we thus need to respect the licence). Other issues should also be discussed. Please share your insights and opinions in the linked thread. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:26, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles == It has come up more recently on [[Talk:Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] and in a few VfD nominations that shouldn't need 14 days of discussion simply to delete, but this proposal in a simple nutshell is allowing any page in [[:Category:Stub articles]] to be speedily deleted after 7 days of no edits. This is very similar to what enwikibooks does with abandoned stubs – many of which have unclear scopes and are poorly integrated with their respective book structures in a similar way that many [[Wikivoyage:Stub articles|stubs]] aren't integrated well with Wikivoyage's article structure. For clarity, this does '''not''' address abandoned outline articles. This is specific to articles tagged with {{tl|stub}}. Beyond poor integration with article strucutre, there are a few other benefits to speedily deleting abandoned stubs: * In the long run, it encourages users to actually use the standard Wikivoyage headings when creating a new article (the wording of the newarticletext header can be reworded if this proposal gains consensus). * A VfD takes an unreasonably long time – not only does it take 14 days (which is already quite high), but factoring in an undefined grace period (which is usually about a month from the VfDs I've started), such stubs can end up being left as-is for 1–2 months. * Because of the unreasonably long process it takes for them to be deleted, it leaves the onus of trying to integrate them with other articles up to other users, most of whom are not familiar with the place – all to save minimal, if any, travel content that is very negligible. * Redirecting such destinations is also unfavourable because it is both: :*a) easier for a new user to create an article from a red link; :*b) less [[WV:TTCF|intuitive for readers]] as they woulld expect for the article where the redirect points to have reasonable content about that destination that was redirected. Stubs, however, don't have reasonable content. As a first draft, I propose we add this clause to our deletion policy: {{blockquote|Articles tagged with {{tl|stub}} may be speedy deleted if, after a period of seven days, they appear to have been abandoned and contain little to no substantive or salvageable content. Deleting admins are expected to exercise extreme discretion: if alternative actions, such as converting the page to a redirect, merging it into a more comprehensive article, or upgrading its status, would serve the project better, those options should be pursued in preference to deletion.}} As for how to implement this, I am reasonably confident that we can use the same category mechanisms that enwikibooks uses quite easily so implementation is not an issue. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:42, 10 July 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} although I disagree in the case of [[Hồ Tràm]], which took little time to clean up, in the of stubs that have no travel content and were created bya passer-by in 30 seconds, going through a two-week process that takes up contributors' time in discussion is not an efficent way of dealing with such articles. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:27, 10 July 2025 (UTC) *:Right, the fact that you cleaned it up like that suggests that the summary deletion of that article without discussion would have been a mistake. So how do we make sure that by supporting the proposed policy, we don't remove usable content that could reasonably be whipped into shape? Should the proposal be tweaked in some way? I don't think we should be too hasty to speedily delete stubs with content in them that are started by new users who don't understand Wikivoyage breadcrumb navigation, article templates or style. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:41, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::That article was classified a stub because it had no headings. (It actually did, but they were not formatted as headings.) Perhaps this policy should be targeted to articles that have little or no travel information. I regularly delete on sight article that have the article template and nothing else as page creation vandalism. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:12, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::::It was a stub mainly because it lacked important codes like IsPartOf. I agree about abandoned articles that have no or almost no travel information. The article-starter should be warned before we start deleting the articles they started if they are engaging in a pattern or they did this with one or a few articles and we want to find out if they have any plans to add content. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 22:36, 10 July 2025 (UTC) kyhpgxo667wtalsbg6l5mmc7dq15ygk 5091085 5091083 2025-07-10T23:11:53Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles */ re 5091085 wikitext text/x-wiki {{infobox|Archived discussions |* [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2004-2013]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2014-2019]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2020-2024]] }} == Broken redirects == I hope this is an uncontroversial addition because we have basically been speedily deleting broken redirects for obvious reasons in the past. However, I hope the wording I added was okay because blindly deleting every page on [[Special:BrokenRedirects]] is a bad idea due to MediaWiki's technical shortcomings – does the wording come across clearly? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:39, 1 February 2025 (UTC) == User pages of touts == There is an ongoing discussion relevant to this policy: [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]] It will probably lead to changes to this policy. Please check the discussion and share your view. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:39, 17 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedy deleting user pages of touts == {{swept}} There is a discussion in [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]]. It seems that we have a practice of speedy deleting user pages of touts, which isn't documented is [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy#Speedy deletions]]. I assume that means that the policy should be amended. The question is whether any user page with promotional content can be speedily deleted at sight, or whether there needs to be some consideration of the specifics of the user page content or the user's contributions. If there is admin discretion involved, we should probably have some guidance. At the moment, the discussion is about whether preserving a user page can be required for attribution purposes, or whether attributing the username itself suffices legally (in cases where the user's contributions are copyrightable, and we thus need to respect the licence). Other issues should also be discussed. Please share your insights and opinions in the linked thread. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:26, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles == It has come up more recently on [[Talk:Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] and in a few VfD nominations that shouldn't need 14 days of discussion simply to delete, but this proposal in a simple nutshell is allowing any page in [[:Category:Stub articles]] to be speedily deleted after 7 days of no edits. This is very similar to what enwikibooks does with abandoned stubs – many of which have unclear scopes and are poorly integrated with their respective book structures in a similar way that many [[Wikivoyage:Stub articles|stubs]] aren't integrated well with Wikivoyage's article structure. For clarity, this does '''not''' address abandoned outline articles. This is specific to articles tagged with {{tl|stub}}. Beyond poor integration with article strucutre, there are a few other benefits to speedily deleting abandoned stubs: * In the long run, it encourages users to actually use the standard Wikivoyage headings when creating a new article (the wording of the newarticletext header can be reworded if this proposal gains consensus). * A VfD takes an unreasonably long time – not only does it take 14 days (which is already quite high), but factoring in an undefined grace period (which is usually about a month from the VfDs I've started), such stubs can end up being left as-is for 1–2 months. * Because of the unreasonably long process it takes for them to be deleted, it leaves the onus of trying to integrate them with other articles up to other users, most of whom are not familiar with the place – all to save minimal, if any, travel content that is very negligible. * Redirecting such destinations is also unfavourable because it is both: :*a) easier for a new user to create an article from a red link; :*b) less [[WV:TTCF|intuitive for readers]] as they woulld expect for the article where the redirect points to have reasonable content about that destination that was redirected. Stubs, however, don't have reasonable content. As a first draft, I propose we add this clause to our deletion policy: {{blockquote|Articles tagged with {{tl|stub}} may be speedy deleted if, after a period of seven days, they appear to have been abandoned and contain little to no substantive or salvageable content. Deleting admins are expected to exercise extreme discretion: if alternative actions, such as converting the page to a redirect, merging it into a more comprehensive article, or upgrading its status, would serve the project better, those options should be pursued in preference to deletion.}} As for how to implement this, I am reasonably confident that we can use the same category mechanisms that enwikibooks uses quite easily so implementation is not an issue. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:42, 10 July 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} although I disagree in the case of [[Hồ Tràm]], which took little time to clean up, in the of stubs that have no travel content and were created bya passer-by in 30 seconds, going through a two-week process that takes up contributors' time in discussion is not an efficent way of dealing with such articles. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:27, 10 July 2025 (UTC) *:Right, the fact that you cleaned it up like that suggests that the summary deletion of that article without discussion would have been a mistake. So how do we make sure that by supporting the proposed policy, we don't remove usable content that could reasonably be whipped into shape? Should the proposal be tweaked in some way? I don't think we should be too hasty to speedily delete stubs with content in them that are started by new users who don't understand Wikivoyage breadcrumb navigation, article templates or style. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:41, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::That article was classified a stub because it had no headings. (It actually did, but they were not formatted as headings.) Perhaps this policy should be targeted to articles that have little or no travel information. I regularly delete on sight article that have the article template and nothing else as page creation vandalism. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:12, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::::It was a stub mainly because it lacked important codes like IsPartOf. I agree about abandoned articles that have no or almost no travel information. The article-starter should be warned before we start deleting the articles they started if they are engaging in a pattern or they did this with one or a few articles and we want to find out if they have any plans to add content. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 22:36, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::I mean that is why I added "if alternative actions, such as converting the page to a redirect, merging it into a more comprehensive article, or upgrading its status, would serve the project better, those options should be pursued in preference to deletion." – Ho Tram also had other issues like touting that you wouldn't otherwise see in the stubs created by IP passer-bys. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:11, 10 July 2025 (UTC) oyrdutst67aec93o645n0erq9vr1m3o 5091089 5091085 2025-07-10T23:26:06Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles */ Reply 5091089 wikitext text/x-wiki {{infobox|Archived discussions |* [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2004-2013]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2014-2019]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2020-2024]] }} == Broken redirects == I hope this is an uncontroversial addition because we have basically been speedily deleting broken redirects for obvious reasons in the past. However, I hope the wording I added was okay because blindly deleting every page on [[Special:BrokenRedirects]] is a bad idea due to MediaWiki's technical shortcomings – does the wording come across clearly? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:39, 1 February 2025 (UTC) == User pages of touts == There is an ongoing discussion relevant to this policy: [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]] It will probably lead to changes to this policy. Please check the discussion and share your view. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:39, 17 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedy deleting user pages of touts == {{swept}} There is a discussion in [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]]. It seems that we have a practice of speedy deleting user pages of touts, which isn't documented is [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy#Speedy deletions]]. I assume that means that the policy should be amended. The question is whether any user page with promotional content can be speedily deleted at sight, or whether there needs to be some consideration of the specifics of the user page content or the user's contributions. If there is admin discretion involved, we should probably have some guidance. At the moment, the discussion is about whether preserving a user page can be required for attribution purposes, or whether attributing the username itself suffices legally (in cases where the user's contributions are copyrightable, and we thus need to respect the licence). Other issues should also be discussed. Please share your insights and opinions in the linked thread. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:26, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles == It has come up more recently on [[Talk:Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] and in a few VfD nominations that shouldn't need 14 days of discussion simply to delete, but this proposal in a simple nutshell is allowing any page in [[:Category:Stub articles]] to be speedily deleted after 7 days of no edits. This is very similar to what enwikibooks does with abandoned stubs – many of which have unclear scopes and are poorly integrated with their respective book structures in a similar way that many [[Wikivoyage:Stub articles|stubs]] aren't integrated well with Wikivoyage's article structure. For clarity, this does '''not''' address abandoned outline articles. This is specific to articles tagged with {{tl|stub}}. Beyond poor integration with article strucutre, there are a few other benefits to speedily deleting abandoned stubs: * In the long run, it encourages users to actually use the standard Wikivoyage headings when creating a new article (the wording of the newarticletext header can be reworded if this proposal gains consensus). * A VfD takes an unreasonably long time – not only does it take 14 days (which is already quite high), but factoring in an undefined grace period (which is usually about a month from the VfDs I've started), such stubs can end up being left as-is for 1–2 months. * Because of the unreasonably long process it takes for them to be deleted, it leaves the onus of trying to integrate them with other articles up to other users, most of whom are not familiar with the place – all to save minimal, if any, travel content that is very negligible. * Redirecting such destinations is also unfavourable because it is both: :*a) easier for a new user to create an article from a red link; :*b) less [[WV:TTCF|intuitive for readers]] as they woulld expect for the article where the redirect points to have reasonable content about that destination that was redirected. Stubs, however, don't have reasonable content. As a first draft, I propose we add this clause to our deletion policy: {{blockquote|Articles tagged with {{tl|stub}} may be speedy deleted if, after a period of seven days, they appear to have been abandoned and contain little to no substantive or salvageable content. Deleting admins are expected to exercise extreme discretion: if alternative actions, such as converting the page to a redirect, merging it into a more comprehensive article, or upgrading its status, would serve the project better, those options should be pursued in preference to deletion.}} As for how to implement this, I am reasonably confident that we can use the same category mechanisms that enwikibooks uses quite easily so implementation is not an issue. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:42, 10 July 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} although I disagree in the case of [[Hồ Tràm]], which took little time to clean up, in the of stubs that have no travel content and were created bya passer-by in 30 seconds, going through a two-week process that takes up contributors' time in discussion is not an efficent way of dealing with such articles. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:27, 10 July 2025 (UTC) *:Right, the fact that you cleaned it up like that suggests that the summary deletion of that article without discussion would have been a mistake. So how do we make sure that by supporting the proposed policy, we don't remove usable content that could reasonably be whipped into shape? Should the proposal be tweaked in some way? I don't think we should be too hasty to speedily delete stubs with content in them that are started by new users who don't understand Wikivoyage breadcrumb navigation, article templates or style. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:41, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::That article was classified a stub because it had no headings. (It actually did, but they were not formatted as headings.) Perhaps this policy should be targeted to articles that have little or no travel information. I regularly delete on sight article that have the article template and nothing else as page creation vandalism. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:12, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::::It was a stub mainly because it lacked important codes like IsPartOf. I agree about abandoned articles that have no or almost no travel information. The article-starter should be warned before we start deleting the articles they started if they are engaging in a pattern or they did this with one or a few articles and we want to find out if they have any plans to add content. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 22:36, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::I mean that is why I added "if alternative actions, such as converting the page to a redirect, merging it into a more comprehensive article, or upgrading its status, would serve the project better, those options should be pursued in preference to deletion." – Ho Tram also had other issues like touting that you wouldn't otherwise see in the stubs created by IP passer-bys. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:11, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::::All of that makes sense. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:26, 10 July 2025 (UTC) oz4p6hodntdmepq9m1zwtvl4p4buk6h 5091357 5091089 2025-07-11T11:01:34Z ChubbyWimbus 109402 /* Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles */ 5091357 wikitext text/x-wiki {{infobox|Archived discussions |* [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2004-2013]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2014-2019]] * [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy/Archive 2020-2024]] }} == Broken redirects == I hope this is an uncontroversial addition because we have basically been speedily deleting broken redirects for obvious reasons in the past. However, I hope the wording I added was okay because blindly deleting every page on [[Special:BrokenRedirects]] is a bad idea due to MediaWiki's technical shortcomings – does the wording come across clearly? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:39, 1 February 2025 (UTC) == User pages of touts == There is an ongoing discussion relevant to this policy: [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]] It will probably lead to changes to this policy. Please check the discussion and share your view. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:39, 17 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedy deleting user pages of touts == {{swept}} There is a discussion in [[Wikivoyage talk:Don't tout#When should promotional user pages be deleted?]]. It seems that we have a practice of speedy deleting user pages of touts, which isn't documented is [[Wikivoyage:Deletion policy#Speedy deletions]]. I assume that means that the policy should be amended. The question is whether any user page with promotional content can be speedily deleted at sight, or whether there needs to be some consideration of the specifics of the user page content or the user's contributions. If there is admin discretion involved, we should probably have some guidance. At the moment, the discussion is about whether preserving a user page can be required for attribution purposes, or whether attributing the username itself suffices legally (in cases where the user's contributions are copyrightable, and we thus need to respect the licence). Other issues should also be discussed. Please share your insights and opinions in the linked thread. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:26, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles == It has come up more recently on [[Talk:Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] and in a few VfD nominations that shouldn't need 14 days of discussion simply to delete, but this proposal in a simple nutshell is allowing any page in [[:Category:Stub articles]] to be speedily deleted after 7 days of no edits. This is very similar to what enwikibooks does with abandoned stubs – many of which have unclear scopes and are poorly integrated with their respective book structures in a similar way that many [[Wikivoyage:Stub articles|stubs]] aren't integrated well with Wikivoyage's article structure. For clarity, this does '''not''' address abandoned outline articles. This is specific to articles tagged with {{tl|stub}}. Beyond poor integration with article strucutre, there are a few other benefits to speedily deleting abandoned stubs: * In the long run, it encourages users to actually use the standard Wikivoyage headings when creating a new article (the wording of the newarticletext header can be reworded if this proposal gains consensus). * A VfD takes an unreasonably long time – not only does it take 14 days (which is already quite high), but factoring in an undefined grace period (which is usually about a month from the VfDs I've started), such stubs can end up being left as-is for 1–2 months. * Because of the unreasonably long process it takes for them to be deleted, it leaves the onus of trying to integrate them with other articles up to other users, most of whom are not familiar with the place – all to save minimal, if any, travel content that is very negligible. * Redirecting such destinations is also unfavourable because it is both: :*a) easier for a new user to create an article from a red link; :*b) less [[WV:TTCF|intuitive for readers]] as they woulld expect for the article where the redirect points to have reasonable content about that destination that was redirected. Stubs, however, don't have reasonable content. As a first draft, I propose we add this clause to our deletion policy: {{blockquote|Articles tagged with {{tl|stub}} may be speedy deleted if, after a period of seven days, they appear to have been abandoned and contain little to no substantive or salvageable content. Deleting admins are expected to exercise extreme discretion: if alternative actions, such as converting the page to a redirect, merging it into a more comprehensive article, or upgrading its status, would serve the project better, those options should be pursued in preference to deletion.}} As for how to implement this, I am reasonably confident that we can use the same category mechanisms that enwikibooks uses quite easily so implementation is not an issue. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:42, 10 July 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} although I disagree in the case of [[Hồ Tràm]], which took little time to clean up, in the of stubs that have no travel content and were created bya passer-by in 30 seconds, going through a two-week process that takes up contributors' time in discussion is not an efficent way of dealing with such articles. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:27, 10 July 2025 (UTC) *:Right, the fact that you cleaned it up like that suggests that the summary deletion of that article without discussion would have been a mistake. So how do we make sure that by supporting the proposed policy, we don't remove usable content that could reasonably be whipped into shape? Should the proposal be tweaked in some way? I don't think we should be too hasty to speedily delete stubs with content in them that are started by new users who don't understand Wikivoyage breadcrumb navigation, article templates or style. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:41, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::That article was classified a stub because it had no headings. (It actually did, but they were not formatted as headings.) Perhaps this policy should be targeted to articles that have little or no travel information. I regularly delete on sight article that have the article template and nothing else as page creation vandalism. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:12, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::::It was a stub mainly because it lacked important codes like IsPartOf. I agree about abandoned articles that have no or almost no travel information. The article-starter should be warned before we start deleting the articles they started if they are engaging in a pattern or they did this with one or a few articles and we want to find out if they have any plans to add content. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 22:36, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::I mean that is why I added "if alternative actions, such as converting the page to a redirect, merging it into a more comprehensive article, or upgrading its status, would serve the project better, those options should be pursued in preference to deletion." – Ho Tram also had other issues like touting that you wouldn't otherwise see in the stubs created by IP passer-bys. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:11, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::::All of that makes sense. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:26, 10 July 2025 (UTC) * I '''Support''' the option to delete articles of real places. When the issue is user-based (such as a user creating and then abandoning an article with almost no content) and NOT location-based (such as the article covers the location reasonably well but there simply isn't much there), I would much prefer deletion without prejudice over redirecting or merging. It bothers me that we encourage users to wantonly redirect and merge articles for reasons other than that the location cannot sustain its own article and that there is a sensible place to merge it into. Merging and redirecting are options that sometimes makes sense, but I don't think they should be encouraged. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 11:01, 11 July 2025 (UTC) 2q61ebgr4dd8tjdx3l884k9jy96hpgm 1 69868 5090718 5090717 2025-07-10T12:01:05Z Swetarani2520 2329219 5090718 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Give your bathroom a stylish and organised look with this bathroom accessories set''' Nowadays everyone wants to make their bathroom organized and look great, because the trend of decorating it with style and convenience is increasing rapidly such a situation, the demand for bathroom accessories set, bath accessories set, and luxury bath accessories is continuously increasing.The bathroom in every home is not just a place of hygiene and daily use, but it has also become a symbol of your lifestyle. These accessories make your bathroom very convenient to use and also look attractive. Let us now know in detail what bathroom accessories sets are, what is included in them, and what things should be kept in mind while buying them. [https://treasurehunt.in/collections/bath-accessories What is a bathroom accessories set?] A bathroom accessories set is a set that contains all the essential items used in your bathroom, together, making it easy to use. This set gives a convenient and decorative look to your bathroom. Generally, a bath accessories set includes the following things: Bathroom Soap Dispenser Set Toothbrush holder Soap dish Tissue holder Dustbin Mirror set Towel rack or hook Shampoo or lotion dispenser Definition and Usefulness of Luxury Bath Accessories When we talk about luxury bath accessories, it means comfortable and durable accessories which are of premium quality.The material used in them is often stainless steel, glass, marble, or high-quality plastic. These accessories give a royal and modern touch to your bathroom. Benefits of luxury sets: Aesthetic appeal Greater convenience and functional design Durability and long-term usability Coordination to a theme or color scheme Bathroom Soap Dispenser Set: Hygiene and Convenience Bathroom soap dispenser sets have become an essential requirement of the bathroom in today's time. People now use liquid soap or handwash more instead of traditional soap, and in such a situation a good soap dispenser set becomes necessary. Benefits of soap dispenser: Helps in maintaining hygiene Attractive and modern in appearance There is no wastage of soap Children and elderly can use it easily These dispenser sets often also include toothbrush holders and cream containers, making your bathroom look more organized [https://treasurehunt.in/collections/bath-accessories What type of bathroom accessories set are to choose?] Material: If you want luxury bath accessories, stainless steel or brass are the best choices. Sets made of ceramic, plastic, steel, brass, bamboo, etc. are available. Design and colour: Theme-based sets are very popular these days. Choose the design and colour that matches your bathroom tiles and interiors. Size and utility of the set: If your bathroom is large, then you can choose a detailed bathroom accessories set. If your bathroom is small, then choose a compact and multifunctional set. Brand and Price: There are several brands in the market such as Cello, AmazonBasics, Bathla, Ikea, Urban Ladder, and Kohler that offer great sets. Types of Bath Accessories Sets Basic Set: Contain only the bare essentials – such as a soap dispenser, soap dish, and toothbrush holder. Modular sets: You can add or subtract to suit your needs. Professional/Hotel Style Sets: These sets are seen in hotels and spas – very premium, unified design and high quality. Luxury Sets: With marble or stone finishes, a beautiful color palette, and every item is of high quality. Correct use of bathroom accessories A good bath accessories set is useful only if you organize it properly. Some tips: Keep every item in its proper place. Don't keep too many accessories in the bathroom, otherwise it will take up less space. Choose wall mounted options if floor space is limited. Take care of cleanliness – especially clean the bathroom soap dispenser set regularly. Where to buy online and offline? Online Platforms: Treasurehunt Offline Options: Home Improvement Stores Furniture Showrooms Bathroom Fittings Showrooms The advantage of buying online is that you can make the right decision by reading user reviews and looking at ratings. care and cleaning If you want your luxury bath accessories to last a long time, it's important to look after them: Wipe metal accessories with a dry cloth regularly Clean plastic items with a mild detergent Handle glass items separately to avoid breakage Conclusion Bathroom accessories sets are not only a symbol of convenience in today's modern era, but they also reflect your lifestyle. A good bath accessories set makes your bathroom neat, organized and beautiful.If you want a little extra décor, opt for luxury bath accessories that will not only look gorgeous, but will also last a long time. And most importantly – a beautiful and functional bathroom soap dispenser set can take your bathroom hygiene levels to new heights. So the next time you plan to renovate your bathroom, consider these accessories == Country/region articles as Stars == Expanding on Evan's point above... what exactly ''are'' the Star criteria for region or country articles? Obviously a map with individual attractions isn't very practical (unless we're talking about the Vatican...), but is a CIA factbook map sufficient or should we insist on a full-fledged vector map which points out the cities/regions listed in the article? [[User:(WT-en) Jpatokal|(WT-en) Jpatokal]] 03:40, 3 Jan 2006 (EST) :I like your idea about the map-- can we generalize and say that a star article should have a least one map helpful to the specific area covered? So a city map would need to be helpful on a city level (ie with streets/attractions), a region map would need to show the location of cities mentioned, and a country map should show at least the major regions maybe along with the capital? :On a related note, I think it the [[Project:Guide articles|guide]] rating that needs to have additional/different criteria for regions/ countries. One thing that makes a good guide at these levels is '''not''' having specific listings for hotels, restaurants, etc, but having good general information that refers to citie articles. :Districts I still don't know about. But I wouldn't want to see a star rating on a city page unless the majority of the districts are guides/stars as well... [[User:(WT-en) Maj|(WT-en) Majnoona]] 15:08, 25 Jan 2006 (EST) ::Re: the maps, I also think they should include all listed destinations, the CIA factbook maps are better than nothing, but usually lack (and sometimes spell differently) many common tourist destinations... [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 06:00, 13 January 2007 (EST) == How Perfect is Perfect == Something that happens pretty often is someone has a fairly well-done article with maps, and upgrades it to star -- see [[Cleveland]]. When I asked for a star-review of [[Penticton]], it appeared that the following kinds of things are requirements for the star rating: # No deviations in Manual-of-style formatting. # All listings must have phone numbers, addresses, hours, and usually some indication of price # All sections must have content. The content should be good. # Not mentioned in the review -- but is a map of the listings also a requirement? Now I found it kinda fun to participate in perfectifying Penticton, but I'd like to make a couple of observations: 1. There is a ''huge'' quality gap between Guide and Star that is roughly comparable to the gap between vfd and guide. Did we mean for this to be? I'm kinda torn because I like seeing a "Quality Mark" that tells us all that an article is perfect (though always improvable). But on the other hand, it's a really difficult level to achieve -- Penticton just isn't very big so it was easier to accomplish. 2. One set of eyes is not enough for labelling a star. I think we should submit Star-candidates for review because I think it hurts a contributor's morale when we yank the Star away. And when people ask about "is this article ready?" they sometimes get [[Talk:Santa Fe (New Mexico)#How to make this thing a Star?|very little]] response. 3. Our MoS changes occasionally. Some of our Stars appear to be [[Paris/4th arrondissement|grandfathered]] in and would not currently qualify for Star rating. In general, should they be downgraded to Guide? (I keep thinking I need to fix them instead of downgrading them since it's just formatting issues.) -- [[User:(WT-en) Cjensen|(WT-en) Colin]] 21:54, 12 May 2006 (EDT) : For #1, yeah, I think it's intentional and should stay that way. "Star" basically means 'throw away your Rough Planet, this is all you'll ever need". I like the review idea though. And the solution to #3 is the planned move to [[Project:Listings|listings]], where you just need to enter the data in a machine-readable format and the formatting is handled automagically. [[User:(WT-en) Jpatokal|(WT-en) Jpatokal]] 22:26, 12 May 2006 (EDT) :My opinion is that we are not at a star level until a guide is comparable to a Lonely Planet, Rough Guide, Fodor's, Let's Go, or Frommer's -- in readability, reliability, and consistency. I don't just ''think'' that's achievable -- we have existence proof that it's achievable. :Is that setting the bar too high? I don't think so. I'm kind of glad that we've made some intermediate article statuses between stub and star. :You're right about 2, by the way. I'm going to add some more comments on Santa Fe and try to put some time into stellarizing it. Also, I think articles like Santa Fe are great candidates for collaboration of the week; if everybody does 1 or 2 listings, we can finish it really quickly. :For 3: yeah, I think so. Hopefully our MoS is going to get more and more stable and the target stops moving so much. But it doesn't really change ''that'' often. --[[User:(WT-en) Evan|(WT-en) Evan]] 22:36, 12 May 2006 (EDT) 1. I don't see the leap from Guide to Star as ''that'' huge, certainly not as great as between VFD and Guide. It's largely a matter of dotting the t's and crossing the i's, and dressing it up with visuals. (And since most articles already have photos by the time they reach Guide, the latter probably just means adding a map.) Tightening up and/or punching up the prose is a lot less burdensome than filling out the freakin' Sleep section on a city where you don't happen to be a call girl who already knows the local hotels. ;) 2. I agree about the need for multiple eyes. I only put a Star on [[Isle Royale]] because Ryan told me I should, and I still hestitated &ndash; waiting for someone to tell me I shouldn't &ndash; because I didn't really feel qualified to. Even with supposedly objective criteria, there's enough subjectivity to evaluating the prose, and cussed nitpickiness to evaluating MoS compliance, that a nomination/voting process or an "X-number of editors agree it's a Star" requirement would be helpful. (Since the number of Stars is still pretty small, it might not be a bad idea to run them all through a confirmation process.) 3. The MoS should be stable enough by now that any changes should have little bearing on whether a Star falls from grace. I'd be more worried about subsequent additions and changes ''to the article'' (and there ''will'' be, even on "perfect", "complete" ones) degrading its status. - [[User:(WT-en) TVerBeek|(WT-en) Todd VerBeek]] 22:38, 12 May 2006 (EDT) :I've created a page for [[Project:Star nominations]], and a [[Template:Starnomination]] to be put at the bottom of any article being nominated, inviting comments. - [[User:(WT-en) TVerBeek|(WT-en) Todd VerBeek]] 09:44, 15 May 2006 (EDT) == add date an article became starred == Are there any objections to adding date here when each article became rated as Star? (only to [[Project:Star articles]], not to a section on the [[Main Page]]). Presently there's really few Stars -- dates will show both how long ago articles started to receive Stars. Plus, dates will show dynamics of the community: when we're launching many new Stars (this can be ''some'' measure of our productivity, and when we're achieving no new Stars for a long time. Thoughts? --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 16:11, 25 November 2006 (EST) :Sounds good to me. --[[User:(WT-en) Evan|(WT-en) Evan]] 20:47, 10 December 2006 (EST) ::What can be a next step towards achieving that? --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 04:29, 11 December 2006 (EST) == Maintaining star status == So this has been touched on already, but what to do about articles that are already stars but have new problems or new rules that create problems? [[Paris/4th_arrondissement]] is missing some critical info (see the "see", "do" and "buy" sections), for example... [[Flores (Guatemala)]] is nominated for star status, and has less problems than this article (considering its size), but will probably (rightfully) not be upgraded, since we're being more strict now... What about something like creating a template infobox that goes on top of the page in question that says "This Star article no longer matches the MoS, and will be downgraded to Guide status if the problems aren't fixed in XX # of days"? Then on the talk page for the article the person adding this template can detail what they think needs fixin'... [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 05:57, 13 January 2007 (EST) ==Star Potential== ''swept in from the [[pub]]'' I wonder if there would be value in creating a block on the [[Project:Project]] page, and then an article to elaborate, for "Stars in the Making" -- articles that definitely don't qualify for Star status yet, but could be pushed to Star with comparatively little effort. I see this as distinct from CotW in two regards. CotW seems to be getting applied to articles that are a long way from Star, and the improvements being brought about via CotW usually aren't all that significant, so that using it for Star aspirants isn't likely to meet the goal. Second, pushing to Star can be one of those chance-encounter things where someone peruses the list of candidates, notices one that he/she knows something about, and says, "hey, I can fix that!" By having a list of possibilities there, rather than the one single article that is CotW at any given time, the chances of such a random encounter are increased. Thoughts? A good beta test would be [[Albuquerque]], which [[User:(WT-en) PerryPlanet]] has done a fantastic job with recently, yet it's clearly not gonna be a Star until it has a map, at the minimum. -- [[User:(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill|(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill]] 13:03, 28 December 2006 (EST) : I think that's a fantastic idea, I would certainly pay attention to it... [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 09:55, 15 January 2007 (EST) ::How about <nowiki>{{starpotential}}</nowiki>? {| width="60%" bgcolor="white" align="center" style="border-style:double;border-width:6px;border-color:lightblue" | This article has '''[[Star potential]]'''. It’s well written with great and near-complete information, and now needs a few sets of eyes to make it ''perfectly'' match the [[Project:Manual of style|Manual of style]] before we can [[Project:Star nominations|nominate]] it for '''[[Project:Star articles|Star]]''' status. If you see how it can be improved please [[Project:Plunge forward|plunge forward]] or point it out on the [[Project:{{PAGENAME}}|talk page]]. |} ::This also addresses Colin’s issue in a way, about there being a step between Guide and Star status. And addresses other concerns raised on the [[Project:Star nominations]] page about that page being reserved for articles we think are already stars and just need confirmation, not ones that need feedback and pushing, or that someone unilaterally declared a star. So by the time an article reaches that page it will likely just need a yes or no vote with simple critiqueing if anything. ::As Bill mentioned above, CotW seems to be working in a different way on other issues, not to mention that it’s only for a week. I would see this more as an ''article status'' than just a collaboration, it would remain <nowiki>{{starpotential}}</nowiki> until it’s nominated for star status. A list of an articles problems or suggested fixes can be detailed on the talk page... Thoughts? [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 00:58, 18 January 2007 (EST) :::It sounds like this proposal is basically creating another status level between guide and star. While there is currently a fairly big difference between "guide" and "star", we would need clear criteria if a new status is added. If we aren't talking about adding a new status then I'm not sure that the added bureaucracy of a "nomination for nomination for star" process is necessarily a good idea. -- [[User:(WT-en) Wrh2|(WT-en) Ryan]] 01:17, 18 January 2007 (EST) ::::I'm all for bureaucracy and red tape, but adding another template and status is just going to make things more complicated as we drive ever closer to the [http://www.interfold.com/bx568/India/RCIMGP0586.JPG Indian model of efficiency]. Anywho, what's the problem with the guide status template that says 'plunge forward and help make this guide a star'? -- [[User:(WT-en) Sapphire|(WT-en) Andrew H. (Sapphire)]] 01:38, 18 January 2007 (EST) :::::Well, the fact that there is a sea of guides, many of which are nowhere near Star status. I personally am thinking of a new status I guess... I'm almost thinking that this would replace (or make irrelevant) the [[Project:Star_nominations/Slush_pile|slushpile]]... Right now, if someone thinks an article is a star or wants to know what else it needs (beyond what they can see themselves) they don't have a lot of options other than posting a message on the talk page (unlikely to gain much attention) or nominate it for Star status. An example would be [[Project:Star_nominations#South_Africa]] - the user nominated it because he's done all he sees to do, it's a great article, but there's things he hasn't thought of yet that need fixing. Tim pointed out that the subsections aren't guides, and I would guess now beyond that it's probably not going to garner much more attention, will sit there for a couple weeks and then be slushpiled. Whereas if he could say that it has ''star potential'', a page that after a while would hopefully have an audience, then he would be inviting more feedback than "it's not there yet, but keep trying". [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 01:45, 18 January 2007 (EST) ::::::I like the idea of drawing peoples attention to articles that are "nearly stars" in an attempt to push them that last little bit so that they become star status. However, we do already have 5 levels of article quality - do we really need another? In my understanding, the Guide level is when an article reaches a level of quality where it can be used almost completely on it's own for planning/doing a trip. The Star level is when you have enough info to not need anything else at all - all the info you need is in the guide. So in that sense, the Guide level ''is'' the "star potential" level that has been proposed. What I think happens too much is that people push usable articles up to "Guide" status too early, when they should still be at the "usable" level. SO I reckon rather than introducing another status level we try and make the original status levels far more clearly defined. ::::::I created [[:Template:failedstarnomination]] to draw attention to articles that were nominated but weren't quite at star status, in order to help people realise what needs to be done to get them to star. Maybe we should merge the starpotential and failedstarnomination? I'm aware that failedstarnomination isn't particularly visible - I didn't want to stick a banner at the bottom of the page saying this article isn't good enough, because I don't want viewers to read that and not take the article seriously - so maybe we should alter that and stick it at the bottom of the page where usual status templates go? -- [[User:(WT-en) Tsandell|(WT-en) Tim]] 08:29, 19 January 2007 (EST) ::::::::Yeah... what I like about the starpotential is that it's more positive and would feel like you're helping articles on their way up instead of saving sinking ships, otherwise we could just let a million articles get nominated then slushed, and just promote the slush pile. ::::::::I would certainly say (as you suggest) that it would go onto the failed nominees pages, but I also think it should be applied to guides that are nearing star, so they can be perfected ''before'' being nominated... template aside though, I think Bill's suggestion about putting whatever is decided upon on the project page, and having a page about it also, is what will potentially draw in the perfectionists... [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 08:58, 19 January 2007 (EST) :::::::::Just saw the first paragraph of your post Tim, I also agree with that, making guide status more strict would help the problem. While I do think that starpotential could be another status level, it also could just be a project for perfecting guides before they get nominated... [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 09:07, 19 January 2007 (EST) ::: Laying aside the banner issue (btw, I'd personally prefer starpotential to failedstarnomination and would suggest a merge), my original thought was that there is a need to make Star candidates more "visible." Putting a banner ''on'' the Star candidate only accomplishes that if you actually read the candidate article already; it doesn't particularly call one's attention to the fact that the article exists and is nearly of Star quality. For that, mention on the main page or project page seems like the preferred way to go. I don't think the process for that has to be too bureaucratic. (BTW, Andrew, that shot has a considerable resemblance to my own office -- and I am in fact part (American) Indian. :-) )-- [[User:(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill|(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill]] 10:08, 19 January 2007 (EST) I moved [[:Template:failedstarnomination]] to [[:Template:Starpotential]] per the above discussion... now we just need to create [[Project:Star potential]] and see what that develops into - having sat on this a little longer, I'm less inclined to follow my previous thoughts about it being a new article status, and more inclined to continue to more accurately define the existing article statuses. I'd still love to see Bill (or someone) follow his idea and put a box on the project or main page. We ''do'' need some sort of project that draws attention to Guides that are nearing Stars so that people can solicit help before nominating an article. [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) - Cacahuate]] 20:50, 22 February 2007 (EST) : This is a great proposal - I'd love to have a venue for peer review of articles I've worked on. [[User:(WT-en) Gorilla Jones|(WT-en) Gorilla Jones]] 21:06, 22 February 2007 (EST) Returning to this after some time away: The intent of "star potential" is rather different than "failed star nominations." The latter are a subset of the former, pages that have been through the nomination process and found wanting. However, there are a lot of articles out there that have ''not'' been through the nomination process yet because it is known that they would fail, yet could be pushed to Star with comparatively little effort. The [[Albuquerque]] straw man applies here: nobody is nominating it for Star, because it is missing one ''sine qua non'' (map), yet fill that in and it sure looks like a Star to me. I'll try redoing that template and we can see what happens. -- [[User:(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill|(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill]] 17:42, 12 August 2007 (EDT) ::It would be useful to have a category of pages like this. If all that's missing is a map, I would usually be happy to make one. But I wasn't aware, for example, that Albequerque is otherwise ready. --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 22:52, 12 August 2007 (EDT) ::So I tried a go at [[Project:Star potential]], please modify it as you wish. We still need a [[Category: Star potential]] though. And why do we add the Star potential to the Talk Page? Isn't it better just at the bottom of the Main article? [[User:(WT-en) Globe-trotter|(WT-en) Globe-trotter]] 17:49, 17 December 2009 (EST) == distribute Star articles in a printed form? == ''Archived from the [[Pub]]'': Recurring to the early-years idea to distribute Wikivoyage articles in a printed form (and thus findind new contributors, not only helping people to travel smarter): have anyone tried to distribute articles in Star status? They are definitely the best candidates to start... Maybe start talking to the hotels and cafes that we recommend in those articles? --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 19:00, 26 November 2006 (EST) If we're not ready yet to start ''doing'' specific talks with specific hotels, what about helping those wikivoyagers who may have good contacts with some hotels? Can we encourage them to talk about distribution, and have some place at Wikivoyage where they can ask for help/we talk on policies etc etc? Or the plan is just dramatically different? ;-) --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 04:35, 11 February 2007 (EST) BUMP :-) --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 18:01, 13 February 2007 (EST) :Personally I don't care either way if they ever get distributed in printed form... I think they're most handy as an online guide that you can print last minute and have the most up to date version. But even if the goal is to print them someday, I think we're still in the stage of needing to write them instead of what to do after they're written, for the most part [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) - Cacahuate]] 11:26, 16 February 2007 (EST) ::I would vote for ReleaseEarlyReleaseOften here--even if we start only with a few articles which are already Guides or Stars. Otherwise the feedback reward for the community remains in too distant future, and noone believe it will ever happen--while we keep referring that "we ultimately write a printed guide, not really so much an online guide". --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 12:12, 16 February 2007 (EST) ==Format== The star articles should be something that we want the world to see, and a great starting point for aspiring writers. But this page/list is ugly, and IMO not a great portal for newcomers. I'd like to see something more colorful and eye catching, and tried a first draft '''here''' [http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Peterfitzgerald/Star_articles&oldid=1286547]. I'd like to feature the star articles a little more prominently on the [[Main Page]] once we have moved to a more attractive, user-friendly format, so that we put our best foot forward to the world. --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 22:22, 1 November 2009 (EST) :I see what you're going for, but I think there's also some value in having a compact easily-browsable list. [[:Category:Star articles]] is a compact list, but it's not usefully organized by geography like this list is. Also, adding a picture for each Star article makes for a lot of whitespace, which means a lot of scrolling. It's a good start; I'll give some thought to how it can be improved. [[User:(WT-en) LtPowers|(WT-en) LtPowers]] 10:02, 2 November 2009 (EST) ::I support the idea, and I think colorful and eye-catching is a good thing here. If this is a format for a separate page on Star articles, maybe use 2- or 3-column format, with pictures on outer sides (if 2-column format used)? And, it would be very inspiring to see the world/continent map with regions having Star articles highlighted--not sure how to make it easily comprehendable, though. --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 10:30, 2 November 2009 (EST) :::I actually was hoping to put together something more stylish, more compact, in columns, and without all the whitespace ;) But since my [[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald/Sandbox|(WT-en) first attempt]] was both clumsy and too time consuming, I decided to just get the content in place. --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 17:29, 2 November 2009 (EST) And Denis, how does this look: <nowiki>[[Image:WT stars map.png|thumb|center|601px|Star articles throughout the world]]</nowiki> <br clear="all" /> --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 23:44, 2 November 2009 (EST) :I think the map is a great start towards better visualization! --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 01:52, 3 November 2009 (EST) ::It might be nice to highlight the countries in which the stars appear, but that might conflict with any future region-level star articles. [[User:(WT-en) LtPowers|(WT-en) LtPowers]] 11:51, 3 November 2009 (EST) :::I think we could indicate region-level stars just by outlining them, or even giving them a different color. I really liked the idea, and have updated the map. If we're lucky, such a map could spark a little nationalist-motivated hard work ;) --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 19:45, 3 November 2009 (EST) ::::That's even better, and nationalist motivation is a good side effect I seeked in the first place :-) --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 03:06, 4 November 2009 (EST) :::Nice map, but in the article I don't think every destination should have it's own picture. It makes a way messy appearance. At least just one picture per city (so not district) and we should even leave some out of those, so it's not too crowded. But I like the idea. [[User:(WT-en) Globe-trotter|(WT-en) Globe-trotter]] 19:07, 7 December 2009 (EST) ===Bump=== OK, I've tried an additional two versions after '''Version 1''' [http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Peterfitzgerald/Star_articles&oldid=1286547]. '''Version 2''' [http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Peterfitzgerald/Star_articles&oldid=1446816] keeps all the information from version 1, but puts it into columns, as previously suggested. '''Version 3''' [http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Peterfitzgerald/Star_articles&oldid=1446843] is more minimal, but still way more eye catching than what we have now—I've done away with text and tried turning it into a gallery a la [[Previous Destinations of the month]]. I wanted to try using separate wiki section headers as in version 3, but with the text and pictures of version 2 displayed in columns ''within'' each section, but I couldn't quite figure out how to make that happen. I don't like the idea of treating different star articles differently, such as giving pictures only to city articles, but not district articles. The rewarding feeling of seeing an article into which you have put a lot of work featured here is a good incentive to keep people doing the kind of rigorous, difficult, and sometimes tedious work of creating new stars. I wouldn't want us to undermine that in any way. --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 23:05, 2 May 2010 (EDT) :Very good work and a huge step forward from the existing presentation. I really like '''Version 2''' [http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Peterfitzgerald/Star_articles&oldid=1446816], and certainly agree with the point about not treating star articles differently according to hierarchical position. A minor point: in Chrome at least, the column widths in Version 2 are displaying as different (first column is wider). --[[User:(WT-en) Burmesedays|(WT-en) Burmesedays]] 23:21, 2 May 2010 (EDT) ::I kind of like the third one. It keeps the page compact while still catching your eye with the picture. Although I agree that the districts should be featured equally, do you think it would be better to group them under their city as a category? Obviously Chicago is the best example of this; There are so many districts from the same city, it just seems to make sense to group them together under the city rather than floating among the cities. [[User:(WT-en) ChubbyWimbus|(WT-en) ChubbyWimbus]] 01:12, 3 May 2010 (EDT) :::I like #2 also, looking good.... and once the whole city is a star, I don't see why it would be necessary to continue to list the individual districts as well, especially as the # of star articles grows &ndash; [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) <span style="color:green">cacahuate</span>]] ^{<small>[[User talk:(WT-en) Cacahuate|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]]</small>} 02:23, 3 May 2010 (EDT) ::::I would make a strong case for featuring all star articles be they districts of a starred city or cities within a starred region or whatever. From experience, I can say that it is a ''huge'' slog bringing a city or district templated article up to star standard, regardless of the status of its parent article, and we should in no way be demotivating users to do that. ::::I do though like ChubbyWimbus' idea of grouping the articles.--[[User:(WT-en) Burmesedays|(WT-en) Burmesedays]] 02:52, 3 May 2010 (EDT) :Peter, that's great! Personally I like #2 as well. One comment: maybe it's better to re-balance contintents across the columns to aviod "Continent (continued) on top of the 2nd column. Also, I think current captions for pictures add confusion. We'd better either remove them at all, or duplicate article name there. --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 03:00, 3 May 2010 (EDT) :: I prefer Version 2, too. I think the attribution is important and on the other hand might motivate people from grey parts to flip the coin. [[User:(WT-en) Jc8136|(WT-en) jan]] 05:50, 3 May 2010 (EDT) :::The problem I have with version 3 is that it omits the sparkling text that is supposed to be the keystone of a star article. Images are great, and absolutely needed, but it seems a shame not to include a bit of the text that is so important to gaining that star icon. =) As for columns within sections, it seems like there ought to be a way to do it. Wikipedia has templates to handle columnizing, but apparently they don't work in IE or Opera. Other than that, maybe tables are the only way to handle it. [[User:(WT-en) LtPowers|(WT-en) LtPowers]] 10:08, 3 May 2010 (EDT) 2 clearly seems the most popular, so I've made a bunch of the suggested revisions to it: '''Version 2 revised''' [http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Peterfitzgerald/Star_articles&oldid=1447232]. Image captions are gone (which I agree helps, and which mirrors our DotM features), thumbnail boxes are gone, Europe is subdivided by top-level regions, ToC is gone, and North America is now no longer split across columns. This makes the NA column long, leaving whitespace on the left, but this strikes me as less of a problem than it did before. Hopefully "The Rest of the World" will get its act together ;) Re: grouping districts by huge cities. I already did this? Or are you suggesting I strip the huge cities out from the top-level regions? --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 10:14, 3 May 2010 (EDT) :I am not so sure the captions were a mistake - I rather liked them. But no big deal. On groupings, it would make sense to me if Bali were followed by its two sub article stars — Nusa Lembongan and Ubud — rather than Singapore jumping into the middle. This is very good work. Well done done Peter.--[[User:(WT-en) Burmesedays|(WT-en) Burmesedays]] 11:00, 3 May 2010 (EDT) ::Looks great now! --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 15:22, 3 May 2010 (EDT) ::: Agreed &mdash; this is really nice work. [[User:(WT-en) Gorilla Jones|(WT-en) Gorilla Jones]] 19:14, 3 May 2010 (EDT) ::::Along with grouping the Bali regions, I was thinking that once there are a few districts from the same city, we give the city its own subheading like we would do if we had enough cities in the same country. The United States has already been given regional subheadings, and since there are plenty of Chicago districts (as well as the main city page), I think it would make sense to give "Chicago" a subheading. I think this will inevitably have to happen when we get more stars anyway, but Chicago is already ready for it. [[User:(WT-en) ChubbyWimbus|(WT-en) ChubbyWimbus]] 20:58, 3 May 2010 (EDT) :::::Point taken, since Chicago articles comprise 40% of our stars right now! I've added that extra subheading. I'm sure there are more possible improvements to the way this is presented (maybe giving a subtle background color to each subheading?), but I've reached the end of my ugly and incompetent css/html attempts. I figure I'll give this a week to see if anyone objects to the new format, then make it live. --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 23:32, 3 May 2010 (EDT) OK, I've now made the change, and I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out! It would be nice to spruce up the star section of the Main Page too—maybe make it more eye catching with use of the star icon? I really would like the star articles to be a main point of entry for new users. --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 21:48, 11 May 2010 (EDT) :Could we set up a section with a random selection of star articles? I wouldn't want to lose the "newest" list, though, so if it's too much to have both we should just stick with newest. [[User:(WT-en) LtPowers|(WT-en) LtPowers]] 22:53, 11 May 2010 (EDT) ==Diving Sites== The diving site just added is in Africa, but isn't the article a travel topic? Should it go there? [[User:(WT-en) ChubbyWimbus|(WT-en) ChubbyWimbus]] 03:13, 4 December 2009 (EST) :Yes, dive sites are travel topics and should be listed under that headline (for the same reason [[Chicago skyline guide]] is there and not under "Midwest"). [[User:(WT-en) LtPowers|(WT-en) LtPowers]] 09:42, 4 December 2009 (EST) == WT stars map &mdash; colours == I find the blue dots used to identify location of the subjects of our star articles do not show up well on the map. I suggest a higher contrast colour. Maybe something really bright &mdash; after all stars traditionally are points of light in the surrounding darkness. Cheers, • • • [[User:(WT-en) Pbsouthwood|(WT-en) Peter (Southwood)]] <small>^{[[User talk:Pbsouthwood|Talk]]}</small> 03:02, 7 October 2011 (EDT) == Namespace == Why was this page moved into the main namespace? It's not a destination or travel topic. It contains information not about travel, but about Wikivoyage itself (a list of pages that are star articles on Wikivoyage), so it should be in the project namespace. I think the same also applies to [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], and [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. <span style="color:#339989;">–[[User:Sumone10154|'''<span style="color:#339989;">sumone10154</span>''']]^{([[User talk:Sumone10154|<span style="color:#339989;">talk</span>]])}</span> 21:18, 16 October 2012 (CEST) :[[Wikivoyage:Star articles]] should give an explanation what Star articles are, similar to [[Wikivoyage:Guide articles]]. This is a showcase article linked to from the Main Page. It would be odd to send site visitors from the Main Page into the Project namespace if they are not interested in editing articles. On Wikipedia, these showcase articles have a special Portal namespace, maybe that could be a solution for this issue. Please continue this discussion at [[Talk:Previous Destinations of the month#Namespace]]. --[[User:Globe-trotter|Globe-trotter]] ([[User talk:Globe-trotter|talk]]) 00:43, 17 October 2012 (CEST) ==Missing image== The [[Sheki]] entry is missing an appropriate image leading to a less-than-showcase appearance. 14:55, 28 December 2012 Thehelpfulbot (Talk | contribs) deleted page File:Xan Saray Courtyard.jpg (Cleanup: Deleting empty file pages) -- [[User:Alice/About_Me|<b><span style="color:#0000DD">A</span><span style="color:#0066FF">l</span><span style="color:#0099FF">i</span><span style="color:#00CCFF">c</span><span style="color:#00EEFF">e</span></b>]][[Special:Emailuser/Alice|<span style="color:#FF3333">^✉</span>]] 05:49, 17 January 2013 (UTC) :I've been working on getting the Sheki photos transferred today, but the old lead image, unfortunately, will be lost. I'll see if I can't dig up a better one, but for now I've swapped photos. --[[User:Peterfitzgerald|Peter]] <small>^{[[User_talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 06:17, 17 January 2013 (UTC) == Collaboration == Does this project have a collaborative effort such as "Collaboration of the Week", or month, etc.? Many WikiProjects on Wikipedia use this model to bring editors together to work on articles. It would be nice if a group of quality editors could work together to promote articles to star status. --[[User:Another Believer|Another Believer]] ([[User talk:Another Believer|talk]]) 00:46, 16 February 2013 (UTC) : Oh, and may I suggest starting with my personal favorite, Portland, Oregon?! :P --[[User:Another Believer|Another Believer]] ([[User talk:Another Believer|talk]]) 00:46, 16 February 2013 (UTC) :: See [[Wikivoyage:Collaboration of the month]]. -- [[User:Wrh2|Ryan]] &bull; ([[User talk:Wrh2|talk]]) &bull; 01:02, 16 February 2013 (UTC) ==Maintaining Star Status== Because the world is always changing, I think it would be helpful to establish some sort of guide/rule for maintaining star status. What I propose is for periodic checks of information (prices, websites, if the places even still exist, etc.) and write on the article's Talk Page what you checked and in what sections. For example, "Verified 'Eat' listing information" and include the date. That way, others can see it and know what has been updated and when. This is NOT a proposal to remove star status. It is just a way to track exactly how dated our stars are. If an article was made a star 6 years ago, that would mean it's overdo for a check-up. If a star HAS been verified, it would be good to have a record of when/what so that other users know either to move on to another article to verify or to do another check-up. If the check-up reveals a lot of changes that the user is unable to simply update themselves, they could then nominate it for de-starring and hopefully others could save it. If not, of course, it would have to be downgraded, but it's better for us to downgrade an article that is grossly outdated than it is to have star status be an end-all. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 16:19, 6 April 2014 (UTC) ==Map== A star needs to be added to represent [[Okayama]]'s recent addition. I cannot do it myself. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:51, 23 May 2015 (UTC) :I've done this, though it's hard to tell because [[Hiroshima]] is right next door. For future reference, it's a pretty easy task. [[User:LtPowers|Powers]] <small>^{([[User talk:LtPowers|talk]])}</small> 00:15, 24 May 2015 (UTC) == Removing star status altogether == {{swept}} Don't get me wrong, I'm not opposed to star status. However, since things can get out of date, and many of star articles don't even have coordinates (and, therefore, do not really showcase the best of Wikivoyage), I think it might be worthwhile to consider removing star status for articles and merge these into "guide" status. The problem is that there are some articles which are really good and perhaps deserve even more than just guide status. However, I think requirements like custom pagebanners, etc. make guide status a high level to reach for an article, let alone star status. Star status seems to be over-the-top; e.g., all the nominating just to give an article a status that most people wouldn't notice anyway, or understand what it all means. An example of a star article that's not particularly good is [[Menzies]]. Quite a few of the listings don't even have coordinates. I brought this up on the [[Talk:Menzies|Menzies talk page]] but got no response. There are probably many guide articles that are just as good as the [[Menzies]] article, just that they haven't been nominated yet. What do others think about this? Removing star status would be a big step, but it would save us a lot of time over something that isn't particularly important, IMO. Is everyone okay with this being posted here? If it should be at [[Wikivoyage talk:Star articles]] or somewhere like that, I'll move it, but I doubt it would get the attention there that is necessary for discussing something this important. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 04:18, 9 November 2018 (UTC) :I don't pay much attention to star status, but there are some editors who put a lot of effort into improving articles to get them to star status, and improving articles is good. So I'd be in favour if keeping it. Would we consider making the status a tine-limited thing, i.e., it automatically expires after two years, after which it is reviewed to see if it has been updated enough (and kept up with our changing requirements for star status) to warrant the status being renewed? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 04:23, 9 November 2018 (UTC) :: Star status is a good way to motivate people to improve an article and to highlight a good article, but yes with [{{Catscancall}}?project=wikivoyage&depth=10&categories=Listings_with_no_coordinates%0D%0AStar_articles&show_redirects=no&doit=1 45 star status articles that have listings without coordinates] a time limit or formal review would be a good idea. Not sure the [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations#Nominations to remove Star status|Nominations to remove Star status]] process is working at the moment. --[[User:Traveler100|Traveler100]] ([[User talk:Traveler100|talk]]) 06:16, 9 November 2018 (UTC) ::: Star articles are written one by one over time and probably edited less than others (not that much to improve), so it is quite natural they are written to older standards – and not updated much more often than articles in general. But they are not too many, 74 in [[:Category:Star articles]], so making an expedition to find banner images, update listings etc. would not be too difficult. I do not use the star status too much, but when trying to learn what to aim for, the star articles of similar type are a good starting point. And besides motivating editors, I am sure many readers enjoy the star guides. So, I suggest making a concerted effort to get the star articles worth their stars. Later, I think the periodic review is also a good tool. When we have assured star articles are up to current standards, I think we should start giving them more visibility, e.g. wp-sv features a star of the day on their main page. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:29, 9 November 2018 (UTC) ::I agree that some people really enjoy that process and status, so I'm inclined to keep it. ::It sounds like adding coordinates to star articles could be a useful COTM. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:54, 9 November 2018 (UTC) :::I '''strongly oppose''' removing star status altogether, but conversely '''strongly support''' reviewing articles marked as stars to check whether they really fulfil the criteria. Fixer-uppers should be fixed, and those which require more work may be bumped down to whatever status is appropriate. A COTM could well be the best way to handle this, and one which I may even participate in. --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 17:34, 9 November 2018 (UTC) : Just in case people have not noticed, this months [[cotm]] is adding coordinates to listings of star status articles. Although a few have been done in the last week, it is a lot of work. Will need more contributors to complete them all by the end of the month. All welcome to join in. --[[User:Traveler100|Traveler100]] ([[User talk:Traveler100|talk]]) 18:06, 9 November 2018 (UTC) ::I'd keep the concept of Star status articles, though we somehow need to streamline the process for the nomination, and that might include rethinking the requirements for Star status. For years the Star article nomination has been at a standstill, with the oldest discussion being started back in 2014. When you notice this, you probably don't feel much enthusiasm nominating new articles or otherwise participating in the discussions. ::Almost all of the current star articles were largely written back in the Wikitravel era before we had dynamic maps and by editors that have left the project. This means we don't necessarily have anyone on board who knows all the small details about e.g. districts of [[Chicago]] and [[Washington, D.C.]] or [[Bali]], and as the Star articles almost certainly are out of date to some extent, their status should be reviewed. Instead, there might be other articles that are worthy of Star status — for instance articles that have been recently featured on the Main Page. -- [[User:Ypsilon|<span style="color:#0000ff"><b>ϒ</b>ψιλον</span>]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|<span style="color:#333333">talk</span>]]) 20:48, 9 November 2018 (UTC) As the discussion period stated on [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations]] is 3 weeks, should we not remove most of the nomanation proposals currently there. Then maybe start afresh with hopefully more people assisting. --[[User:Traveler100|Traveler100]] ([[User talk:Traveler100|talk]]) 16:32, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :Sure, although there are some 2018 nominations that are still valid and haven't been reviewed much yet. All the other nominations are like ''[[w:Jarndyce and Jarndyce|Jarndyce v Jarndyce]]''. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 16:37, 10 November 2018 (UTC) ::Clearly the 3 week period is too short. It's not just a question of deciding whether or not an article is good enough (akin to deciding whether or not a user is fit to be admin), there's a process whereby the community gives suggestions on how the article can be improved, and these suggestions then have to be agreed to and effectuated. There has been, for instance, much useful feedback on my Farnborough nomination which I intend to implement, but haven't had the chance to do so, and no-one else seems bothered to. I don't see why there has to be an arbitrary time limit - the articles aren't going anywhere and, for the most part, neither are we - but it does take time to imagine and implement perfection :-) Time that we, as volunteers with busy lives, don't always have in spades. --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 17:05, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :::Well, the 3-week period hasn't been followed at least since mid-2014; perhaps if it was followed, we'd get more done in relation to our star articles. And with the nominations that are 3+ years old, enough feedback has been provided, IMO. I'm not saying there's anything wrong with feedback, but after a few years it's long past time to decide whether the nomination should succeed or fail. Reasons to support/oppose were listed years ago; long ago, it was time to come to a decision, and we didn't, so now we should. :::However, with the newer nominations, feedback is needed and would be very helpful. And I think the period for nominating could be expanded to 2 months, perhaps, but not much more. What's needed at the [[WV:Star nominations]] page is more activity, not more time. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 17:12, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :::: Extending discussion period to 2 months sound like a good idea. --[[User:Traveler100|Traveler100]] ([[User talk:Traveler100|talk]]) 17:28, 10 November 2018 (UTC) ::::: I suppose two months is enough for people to see the nomination and give initial feedback. If the discussion is then moved to the article's talk page, the improvements can be made and the discussions go on. I have not been involved, so I cannot say whether there is some timeframe beyond two months in which the articles could get ready for being accepted, but if it takes more than a year, a new nomination is probably more useful. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:41, 10 November 2018 (UTC) ::::::Are there any objections to expanding the time to 2 months? If not, I will make the change; however, if we set 2 months as the limit, I think we should get those really old nominations out of the way. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 17:53, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :::::::As long as the discussions are swept to the article's talk page, as LPfi suggested, and not uselessly archived into oblivion, I can support a two month limit. --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 18:15, 10 November 2018 (UTC) {{outdent}}Okay; I'll adjust accordingly. And now it's time to keep the page current so that [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations]] never gets abandoned again. Once again, thanks for all the input on this. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 18:23, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :[[User:K7L|K7L]] plunged forward with [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Wikivoyage:Star_nominations&oldid=prev&diff=3646620&diffmode=source this edit]. I'm not exactly opposed to it, but after a decision was made by the community I don't see why this should be edited so quickly. :Hopefully, though, everyone's okay with K7L's edit. Then we can move ahead with the star nominations. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 23:17, 10 November 2018 (UTC) ::The whole point of the proposed two-month period was to leave a reasonable amount of time to fix any deficiencies in the article. If there's consensus that a page is ready to go as-is, why wait so long? [[User:K7L|K7L]] ([[User talk:K7L|talk]]) 23:30, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :::Yes, I agree there. If there's consensus to make it a star article, we should go ahead and make it one. I think I understand your edit better now; I thought more that you were reinforcing the old three-week rule ''despite'' the consensus on this page. But if you're just helping articles reach star status faster if there ''is'' consensus, then I don't think anyone will be against that. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 23:32, 10 November 2018 (UTC) ===Progress on the star nominations=== We've brought down the list of star nominations from 11 to 9 and I'm waiting a little before I look to slush a couple more. The star nominations revival back in early September was short-lived, and while there was quite a lot of activity, not any real progress was made other than expanding the list of nominations. This time, a lot to do with [[User:Traveler100|Traveler100]]'s nomination to de-star [[La Macarena]] and update some policy details, real progress is being made. The progress is that T100 has upgraded [[Travemunde]] to star and I've made a couple minor edits to the article itself &mdash; things like bullets before a couple listings, a better spot for paragraph, so we can get moving with these nominations. I also slushed the nomination for [[Indianapolis]]. I'm hoping to get consensus to slush [[Quy Nhon]] and perhaps slush [[Kraainem]], along with a support vote for [[Childs]]. All that is needed is input, which does not require too much knowledge about the articles. Really just confirmations so we can get the star nominations going the way they should again. Everyone who has helped on this, thanks for your help so far as we continue to make Wikivoyage a great travel guide. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 18:22, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :Yep, the progress continues. We're getting close to being able to slush one and we've also nominated a new one, [[Bouzigues]] and there are 2 de-star nominations, [[La Macarena]] and [[Isle Royale National Park]]. Technically, I still should mention this information here per policy, but we'll see how that goes soon. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 21:04, 11 November 2018 (UTC) == Map is outdated == {{mapframe|zoom=2}} There are have been several new star articles added since the last time the map was updated. Is there anyone capable of updating it who's willing to do so? If not, should we remove it and replace with a dynamic map that at least most people can keep updated? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 16:38, 23 November 2020 (UTC) :{{Ping|ThunderingTyphoons!}}Yes, it looks like it was last updated in 2017. I agree that a dynamic map would be the way to go. I think what we need is for [[Template:Star-article-archive]] to be updated to accept a wikidata ID that can then populate [[Template:Mapframe]] in the same way that [[Template:Marker]], [[Template:Listing]], and [[Template:Mapgroup-item]] do. The programming is beyond my capabilities. --[[User:Nricardo|Nelson Ricardo]] ([[User talk:Nricardo|talk]]) 07:35, 1 February 2021 (UTC) ::I don't know whether that would be strictly necessary; we could just put the names of each article in geomarkers {{marker|type=gold|name=like this|lat=1.2345|long=6.7890}}.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 09:08, 1 February 2021 (UTC) :::There seems to be a hard return somewhere (in [[Template:Star-article-archive]], I suspect) that prevents integrating this cleanly with the existing article format: {{marker|type=gold|name=[[Singapore]]|lat=1.29|long=103.82}}{{Star-article-archive | image=Singapore Skyline.jpg | article=[[Singapore]] | description=is a city-state in [[Southeast Asia]]. Founded as a British trading colony in 1819, since independence it has become one of the world's most prosperous countries and sports the world's busiest port. Combining the skyscrapers and subways of a modern, affluent city with a medley of Chinese, Indian and Malay influences and a tropical climate, with tasty food, good shopping and a vibrant nightlife scene, this Garden City makes a great stopover or springboard into the region. }} :::--[[User:Nricardo|Nelson Ricardo]] ([[User talk:Nricardo|talk]]) 10:49, 1 February 2021 (UTC) ::::{{Ping|Wrh2}} If you have a chance, would you please see if anything can be done with this? Thank you! --[[User:Nricardo|Nelson Ricardo]] ([[User talk:Nricardo|talk]]) 11:00, 1 February 2021 (UTC) I've plunged ahead and added a dynamic map and have started adding markers. This will not be a one-day task. I greatly dislike the layout/organization of the article. I find the HTML and two columns needlessly complicated and difficult to edit. I think it should just use wiki-style sections. Does anybody else have an opinion on this? --[[User:Nricardo|Nelson Ricardo]] ([[User talk:Nricardo|talk]]) 15:09, 7 February 2021 (UTC) That didn't take as long as I thought. I left out markers for districts of star cities and other "sub-articles", as well as non-location-specific articles. It would be great if someone could make sure I haven't omitted anything or otherwise messed up. --[[User:Nricardo|Nelson Ricardo]] ([[User talk:Nricardo|talk]]) 18:58, 7 February 2021 (UTC) :Fantastic! Thanks for doing that.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 22:05, 7 February 2021 (UTC) h1ylrx4sxgvumaeiosatfyz4089kp7j 5090719 5090718 2025-07-10T12:05:20Z Ground Zero 1423298 Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/Swetarani2520|Swetarani2520]] ([[User talk:Swetarani2520|talk]]) to last version by [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] 4989959 wikitext text/x-wiki ==Starry districts of huge cities== So, shameless self-promoter that I am, I just rewarded myself for spending way too much time on a map by slapping a Star label on [[Singapore/Chinatown]]. But do I need to make a map for every district until I can list Singapore here and/or dub the main Singapore article a Star? [[User:(WT-en) Jpatokal|(WT-en) Jpatokal]] 10:11, 1 Jan 2006 (EST) :A couple of things: first, fantastic job on the Chinatown map. I especially appreciate the map how-to and I'm going to try and do a couple of maps myself. :Second, it's probably counterproductive to think of a star rating as a "reward" to a particular contributor. It's just a way for us to mark the status of an article. (I know you're probably joking, but others might not.) :Third, most of the listings in S/C aren't in MoS format, so I've downgraded it from star to guide. Sorry to be a downer, but. :Finally, I think you've got a good point about the relationship between a huge city and its district articles. I can see a region article being star quality without each and every city and sub-region being stars, but I'm not sure that the same goes for a city and its districts. --[[User:(WT-en) Evan|(WT-en) Evan]] 14:20, 1 Jan 2006 (EST) ::For what it's worth [[Paris]] was made DOM even though some of the district articles are still at outline stage. -- [[User:(WT-en) Mark|(WT-en) Mark]] 09:12, 18 Feb 2006 (EST) == Country/region articles as Stars == Expanding on Evan's point above... what exactly ''are'' the Star criteria for region or country articles? Obviously a map with individual attractions isn't very practical (unless we're talking about the Vatican...), but is a CIA factbook map sufficient or should we insist on a full-fledged vector map which points out the cities/regions listed in the article? [[User:(WT-en) Jpatokal|(WT-en) Jpatokal]] 03:40, 3 Jan 2006 (EST) :I like your idea about the map-- can we generalize and say that a star article should have a least one map helpful to the specific area covered? So a city map would need to be helpful on a city level (ie with streets/attractions), a region map would need to show the location of cities mentioned, and a country map should show at least the major regions maybe along with the capital? :On a related note, I think it the [[Project:Guide articles|guide]] rating that needs to have additional/different criteria for regions/ countries. One thing that makes a good guide at these levels is '''not''' having specific listings for hotels, restaurants, etc, but having good general information that refers to citie articles. :Districts I still don't know about. But I wouldn't want to see a star rating on a city page unless the majority of the districts are guides/stars as well... [[User:(WT-en) Maj|(WT-en) Majnoona]] 15:08, 25 Jan 2006 (EST) ::Re: the maps, I also think they should include all listed destinations, the CIA factbook maps are better than nothing, but usually lack (and sometimes spell differently) many common tourist destinations... [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 06:00, 13 January 2007 (EST) == How Perfect is Perfect == Something that happens pretty often is someone has a fairly well-done article with maps, and upgrades it to star -- see [[Cleveland]]. When I asked for a star-review of [[Penticton]], it appeared that the following kinds of things are requirements for the star rating: # No deviations in Manual-of-style formatting. # All listings must have phone numbers, addresses, hours, and usually some indication of price # All sections must have content. The content should be good. # Not mentioned in the review -- but is a map of the listings also a requirement? Now I found it kinda fun to participate in perfectifying Penticton, but I'd like to make a couple of observations: 1. There is a ''huge'' quality gap between Guide and Star that is roughly comparable to the gap between vfd and guide. Did we mean for this to be? I'm kinda torn because I like seeing a "Quality Mark" that tells us all that an article is perfect (though always improvable). But on the other hand, it's a really difficult level to achieve -- Penticton just isn't very big so it was easier to accomplish. 2. One set of eyes is not enough for labelling a star. I think we should submit Star-candidates for review because I think it hurts a contributor's morale when we yank the Star away. And when people ask about "is this article ready?" they sometimes get [[Talk:Santa Fe (New Mexico)#How to make this thing a Star?|very little]] response. 3. Our MoS changes occasionally. Some of our Stars appear to be [[Paris/4th arrondissement|grandfathered]] in and would not currently qualify for Star rating. In general, should they be downgraded to Guide? (I keep thinking I need to fix them instead of downgrading them since it's just formatting issues.) -- [[User:(WT-en) Cjensen|(WT-en) Colin]] 21:54, 12 May 2006 (EDT) : For #1, yeah, I think it's intentional and should stay that way. "Star" basically means 'throw away your Rough Planet, this is all you'll ever need". I like the review idea though. And the solution to #3 is the planned move to [[Project:Listings|listings]], where you just need to enter the data in a machine-readable format and the formatting is handled automagically. [[User:(WT-en) Jpatokal|(WT-en) Jpatokal]] 22:26, 12 May 2006 (EDT) :My opinion is that we are not at a star level until a guide is comparable to a Lonely Planet, Rough Guide, Fodor's, Let's Go, or Frommer's -- in readability, reliability, and consistency. I don't just ''think'' that's achievable -- we have existence proof that it's achievable. :Is that setting the bar too high? I don't think so. I'm kind of glad that we've made some intermediate article statuses between stub and star. :You're right about 2, by the way. I'm going to add some more comments on Santa Fe and try to put some time into stellarizing it. Also, I think articles like Santa Fe are great candidates for collaboration of the week; if everybody does 1 or 2 listings, we can finish it really quickly. :For 3: yeah, I think so. Hopefully our MoS is going to get more and more stable and the target stops moving so much. But it doesn't really change ''that'' often. --[[User:(WT-en) Evan|(WT-en) Evan]] 22:36, 12 May 2006 (EDT) 1. I don't see the leap from Guide to Star as ''that'' huge, certainly not as great as between VFD and Guide. It's largely a matter of dotting the t's and crossing the i's, and dressing it up with visuals. (And since most articles already have photos by the time they reach Guide, the latter probably just means adding a map.) Tightening up and/or punching up the prose is a lot less burdensome than filling out the freakin' Sleep section on a city where you don't happen to be a call girl who already knows the local hotels. ;) 2. I agree about the need for multiple eyes. I only put a Star on [[Isle Royale]] because Ryan told me I should, and I still hestitated &ndash; waiting for someone to tell me I shouldn't &ndash; because I didn't really feel qualified to. Even with supposedly objective criteria, there's enough subjectivity to evaluating the prose, and cussed nitpickiness to evaluating MoS compliance, that a nomination/voting process or an "X-number of editors agree it's a Star" requirement would be helpful. (Since the number of Stars is still pretty small, it might not be a bad idea to run them all through a confirmation process.) 3. The MoS should be stable enough by now that any changes should have little bearing on whether a Star falls from grace. I'd be more worried about subsequent additions and changes ''to the article'' (and there ''will'' be, even on "perfect", "complete" ones) degrading its status. - [[User:(WT-en) TVerBeek|(WT-en) Todd VerBeek]] 22:38, 12 May 2006 (EDT) :I've created a page for [[Project:Star nominations]], and a [[Template:Starnomination]] to be put at the bottom of any article being nominated, inviting comments. - [[User:(WT-en) TVerBeek|(WT-en) Todd VerBeek]] 09:44, 15 May 2006 (EDT) == add date an article became starred == Are there any objections to adding date here when each article became rated as Star? (only to [[Project:Star articles]], not to a section on the [[Main Page]]). Presently there's really few Stars -- dates will show both how long ago articles started to receive Stars. Plus, dates will show dynamics of the community: when we're launching many new Stars (this can be ''some'' measure of our productivity, and when we're achieving no new Stars for a long time. Thoughts? --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 16:11, 25 November 2006 (EST) :Sounds good to me. --[[User:(WT-en) Evan|(WT-en) Evan]] 20:47, 10 December 2006 (EST) ::What can be a next step towards achieving that? --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 04:29, 11 December 2006 (EST) == Maintaining star status == So this has been touched on already, but what to do about articles that are already stars but have new problems or new rules that create problems? [[Paris/4th_arrondissement]] is missing some critical info (see the "see", "do" and "buy" sections), for example... [[Flores (Guatemala)]] is nominated for star status, and has less problems than this article (considering its size), but will probably (rightfully) not be upgraded, since we're being more strict now... What about something like creating a template infobox that goes on top of the page in question that says "This Star article no longer matches the MoS, and will be downgraded to Guide status if the problems aren't fixed in XX # of days"? Then on the talk page for the article the person adding this template can detail what they think needs fixin'... [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 05:57, 13 January 2007 (EST) ==Star Potential== ''swept in from the [[pub]]'' I wonder if there would be value in creating a block on the [[Project:Project]] page, and then an article to elaborate, for "Stars in the Making" -- articles that definitely don't qualify for Star status yet, but could be pushed to Star with comparatively little effort. I see this as distinct from CotW in two regards. CotW seems to be getting applied to articles that are a long way from Star, and the improvements being brought about via CotW usually aren't all that significant, so that using it for Star aspirants isn't likely to meet the goal. Second, pushing to Star can be one of those chance-encounter things where someone peruses the list of candidates, notices one that he/she knows something about, and says, "hey, I can fix that!" By having a list of possibilities there, rather than the one single article that is CotW at any given time, the chances of such a random encounter are increased. Thoughts? A good beta test would be [[Albuquerque]], which [[User:(WT-en) PerryPlanet]] has done a fantastic job with recently, yet it's clearly not gonna be a Star until it has a map, at the minimum. -- [[User:(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill|(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill]] 13:03, 28 December 2006 (EST) : I think that's a fantastic idea, I would certainly pay attention to it... [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 09:55, 15 January 2007 (EST) ::How about <nowiki>{{starpotential}}</nowiki>? {| width="60%" bgcolor="white" align="center" style="border-style:double;border-width:6px;border-color:lightblue" | This article has '''[[Star potential]]'''. It’s well written with great and near-complete information, and now needs a few sets of eyes to make it ''perfectly'' match the [[Project:Manual of style|Manual of style]] before we can [[Project:Star nominations|nominate]] it for '''[[Project:Star articles|Star]]''' status. If you see how it can be improved please [[Project:Plunge forward|plunge forward]] or point it out on the [[Project:{{PAGENAME}}|talk page]]. |} ::This also addresses Colin’s issue in a way, about there being a step between Guide and Star status. And addresses other concerns raised on the [[Project:Star nominations]] page about that page being reserved for articles we think are already stars and just need confirmation, not ones that need feedback and pushing, or that someone unilaterally declared a star. So by the time an article reaches that page it will likely just need a yes or no vote with simple critiqueing if anything. ::As Bill mentioned above, CotW seems to be working in a different way on other issues, not to mention that it’s only for a week. I would see this more as an ''article status'' than just a collaboration, it would remain <nowiki>{{starpotential}}</nowiki> until it’s nominated for star status. A list of an articles problems or suggested fixes can be detailed on the talk page... Thoughts? [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 00:58, 18 January 2007 (EST) :::It sounds like this proposal is basically creating another status level between guide and star. While there is currently a fairly big difference between "guide" and "star", we would need clear criteria if a new status is added. If we aren't talking about adding a new status then I'm not sure that the added bureaucracy of a "nomination for nomination for star" process is necessarily a good idea. -- [[User:(WT-en) Wrh2|(WT-en) Ryan]] 01:17, 18 January 2007 (EST) ::::I'm all for bureaucracy and red tape, but adding another template and status is just going to make things more complicated as we drive ever closer to the [http://www.interfold.com/bx568/India/RCIMGP0586.JPG Indian model of efficiency]. Anywho, what's the problem with the guide status template that says 'plunge forward and help make this guide a star'? -- [[User:(WT-en) Sapphire|(WT-en) Andrew H. (Sapphire)]] 01:38, 18 January 2007 (EST) :::::Well, the fact that there is a sea of guides, many of which are nowhere near Star status. I personally am thinking of a new status I guess... I'm almost thinking that this would replace (or make irrelevant) the [[Project:Star_nominations/Slush_pile|slushpile]]... Right now, if someone thinks an article is a star or wants to know what else it needs (beyond what they can see themselves) they don't have a lot of options other than posting a message on the talk page (unlikely to gain much attention) or nominate it for Star status. An example would be [[Project:Star_nominations#South_Africa]] - the user nominated it because he's done all he sees to do, it's a great article, but there's things he hasn't thought of yet that need fixing. Tim pointed out that the subsections aren't guides, and I would guess now beyond that it's probably not going to garner much more attention, will sit there for a couple weeks and then be slushpiled. Whereas if he could say that it has ''star potential'', a page that after a while would hopefully have an audience, then he would be inviting more feedback than "it's not there yet, but keep trying". [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 01:45, 18 January 2007 (EST) ::::::I like the idea of drawing peoples attention to articles that are "nearly stars" in an attempt to push them that last little bit so that they become star status. However, we do already have 5 levels of article quality - do we really need another? In my understanding, the Guide level is when an article reaches a level of quality where it can be used almost completely on it's own for planning/doing a trip. The Star level is when you have enough info to not need anything else at all - all the info you need is in the guide. So in that sense, the Guide level ''is'' the "star potential" level that has been proposed. What I think happens too much is that people push usable articles up to "Guide" status too early, when they should still be at the "usable" level. SO I reckon rather than introducing another status level we try and make the original status levels far more clearly defined. ::::::I created [[:Template:failedstarnomination]] to draw attention to articles that were nominated but weren't quite at star status, in order to help people realise what needs to be done to get them to star. Maybe we should merge the starpotential and failedstarnomination? I'm aware that failedstarnomination isn't particularly visible - I didn't want to stick a banner at the bottom of the page saying this article isn't good enough, because I don't want viewers to read that and not take the article seriously - so maybe we should alter that and stick it at the bottom of the page where usual status templates go? -- [[User:(WT-en) Tsandell|(WT-en) Tim]] 08:29, 19 January 2007 (EST) ::::::::Yeah... what I like about the starpotential is that it's more positive and would feel like you're helping articles on their way up instead of saving sinking ships, otherwise we could just let a million articles get nominated then slushed, and just promote the slush pile. ::::::::I would certainly say (as you suggest) that it would go onto the failed nominees pages, but I also think it should be applied to guides that are nearing star, so they can be perfected ''before'' being nominated... template aside though, I think Bill's suggestion about putting whatever is decided upon on the project page, and having a page about it also, is what will potentially draw in the perfectionists... [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 08:58, 19 January 2007 (EST) :::::::::Just saw the first paragraph of your post Tim, I also agree with that, making guide status more strict would help the problem. While I do think that starpotential could be another status level, it also could just be a project for perfecting guides before they get nominated... [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) Cacahuate]] 09:07, 19 January 2007 (EST) ::: Laying aside the banner issue (btw, I'd personally prefer starpotential to failedstarnomination and would suggest a merge), my original thought was that there is a need to make Star candidates more "visible." Putting a banner ''on'' the Star candidate only accomplishes that if you actually read the candidate article already; it doesn't particularly call one's attention to the fact that the article exists and is nearly of Star quality. For that, mention on the main page or project page seems like the preferred way to go. I don't think the process for that has to be too bureaucratic. (BTW, Andrew, that shot has a considerable resemblance to my own office -- and I am in fact part (American) Indian. :-) )-- [[User:(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill|(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill]] 10:08, 19 January 2007 (EST) I moved [[:Template:failedstarnomination]] to [[:Template:Starpotential]] per the above discussion... now we just need to create [[Project:Star potential]] and see what that develops into - having sat on this a little longer, I'm less inclined to follow my previous thoughts about it being a new article status, and more inclined to continue to more accurately define the existing article statuses. I'd still love to see Bill (or someone) follow his idea and put a box on the project or main page. We ''do'' need some sort of project that draws attention to Guides that are nearing Stars so that people can solicit help before nominating an article. [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) - Cacahuate]] 20:50, 22 February 2007 (EST) : This is a great proposal - I'd love to have a venue for peer review of articles I've worked on. [[User:(WT-en) Gorilla Jones|(WT-en) Gorilla Jones]] 21:06, 22 February 2007 (EST) Returning to this after some time away: The intent of "star potential" is rather different than "failed star nominations." The latter are a subset of the former, pages that have been through the nomination process and found wanting. However, there are a lot of articles out there that have ''not'' been through the nomination process yet because it is known that they would fail, yet could be pushed to Star with comparatively little effort. The [[Albuquerque]] straw man applies here: nobody is nominating it for Star, because it is missing one ''sine qua non'' (map), yet fill that in and it sure looks like a Star to me. I'll try redoing that template and we can see what happens. -- [[User:(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill|(WT-en) Bill-on-the-Hill]] 17:42, 12 August 2007 (EDT) ::It would be useful to have a category of pages like this. If all that's missing is a map, I would usually be happy to make one. But I wasn't aware, for example, that Albequerque is otherwise ready. --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 22:52, 12 August 2007 (EDT) ::So I tried a go at [[Project:Star potential]], please modify it as you wish. We still need a [[Category: Star potential]] though. And why do we add the Star potential to the Talk Page? Isn't it better just at the bottom of the Main article? [[User:(WT-en) Globe-trotter|(WT-en) Globe-trotter]] 17:49, 17 December 2009 (EST) == distribute Star articles in a printed form? == ''Archived from the [[Pub]]'': Recurring to the early-years idea to distribute Wikivoyage articles in a printed form (and thus findind new contributors, not only helping people to travel smarter): have anyone tried to distribute articles in Star status? They are definitely the best candidates to start... Maybe start talking to the hotels and cafes that we recommend in those articles? --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 19:00, 26 November 2006 (EST) If we're not ready yet to start ''doing'' specific talks with specific hotels, what about helping those wikivoyagers who may have good contacts with some hotels? Can we encourage them to talk about distribution, and have some place at Wikivoyage where they can ask for help/we talk on policies etc etc? Or the plan is just dramatically different? ;-) --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 04:35, 11 February 2007 (EST) BUMP :-) --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 18:01, 13 February 2007 (EST) :Personally I don't care either way if they ever get distributed in printed form... I think they're most handy as an online guide that you can print last minute and have the most up to date version. But even if the goal is to print them someday, I think we're still in the stage of needing to write them instead of what to do after they're written, for the most part [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) - Cacahuate]] 11:26, 16 February 2007 (EST) ::I would vote for ReleaseEarlyReleaseOften here--even if we start only with a few articles which are already Guides or Stars. Otherwise the feedback reward for the community remains in too distant future, and noone believe it will ever happen--while we keep referring that "we ultimately write a printed guide, not really so much an online guide". --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 12:12, 16 February 2007 (EST) ==Format== The star articles should be something that we want the world to see, and a great starting point for aspiring writers. But this page/list is ugly, and IMO not a great portal for newcomers. I'd like to see something more colorful and eye catching, and tried a first draft '''here''' [http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Peterfitzgerald/Star_articles&oldid=1286547]. I'd like to feature the star articles a little more prominently on the [[Main Page]] once we have moved to a more attractive, user-friendly format, so that we put our best foot forward to the world. --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 22:22, 1 November 2009 (EST) :I see what you're going for, but I think there's also some value in having a compact easily-browsable list. [[:Category:Star articles]] is a compact list, but it's not usefully organized by geography like this list is. Also, adding a picture for each Star article makes for a lot of whitespace, which means a lot of scrolling. It's a good start; I'll give some thought to how it can be improved. [[User:(WT-en) LtPowers|(WT-en) LtPowers]] 10:02, 2 November 2009 (EST) ::I support the idea, and I think colorful and eye-catching is a good thing here. If this is a format for a separate page on Star articles, maybe use 2- or 3-column format, with pictures on outer sides (if 2-column format used)? And, it would be very inspiring to see the world/continent map with regions having Star articles highlighted--not sure how to make it easily comprehendable, though. --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 10:30, 2 November 2009 (EST) :::I actually was hoping to put together something more stylish, more compact, in columns, and without all the whitespace ;) But since my [[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald/Sandbox|(WT-en) first attempt]] was both clumsy and too time consuming, I decided to just get the content in place. --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 17:29, 2 November 2009 (EST) And Denis, how does this look: <nowiki>[[Image:WT stars map.png|thumb|center|601px|Star articles throughout the world]]</nowiki> <br clear="all" /> --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 23:44, 2 November 2009 (EST) :I think the map is a great start towards better visualization! --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 01:52, 3 November 2009 (EST) ::It might be nice to highlight the countries in which the stars appear, but that might conflict with any future region-level star articles. [[User:(WT-en) LtPowers|(WT-en) LtPowers]] 11:51, 3 November 2009 (EST) :::I think we could indicate region-level stars just by outlining them, or even giving them a different color. I really liked the idea, and have updated the map. If we're lucky, such a map could spark a little nationalist-motivated hard work ;) --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 19:45, 3 November 2009 (EST) ::::That's even better, and nationalist motivation is a good side effect I seeked in the first place :-) --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 03:06, 4 November 2009 (EST) :::Nice map, but in the article I don't think every destination should have it's own picture. It makes a way messy appearance. At least just one picture per city (so not district) and we should even leave some out of those, so it's not too crowded. But I like the idea. [[User:(WT-en) Globe-trotter|(WT-en) Globe-trotter]] 19:07, 7 December 2009 (EST) ===Bump=== OK, I've tried an additional two versions after '''Version 1''' [http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Peterfitzgerald/Star_articles&oldid=1286547]. '''Version 2''' [http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Peterfitzgerald/Star_articles&oldid=1446816] keeps all the information from version 1, but puts it into columns, as previously suggested. '''Version 3''' [http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Peterfitzgerald/Star_articles&oldid=1446843] is more minimal, but still way more eye catching than what we have now—I've done away with text and tried turning it into a gallery a la [[Previous Destinations of the month]]. I wanted to try using separate wiki section headers as in version 3, but with the text and pictures of version 2 displayed in columns ''within'' each section, but I couldn't quite figure out how to make that happen. I don't like the idea of treating different star articles differently, such as giving pictures only to city articles, but not district articles. The rewarding feeling of seeing an article into which you have put a lot of work featured here is a good incentive to keep people doing the kind of rigorous, difficult, and sometimes tedious work of creating new stars. I wouldn't want us to undermine that in any way. --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 23:05, 2 May 2010 (EDT) :Very good work and a huge step forward from the existing presentation. I really like '''Version 2''' [http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Peterfitzgerald/Star_articles&oldid=1446816], and certainly agree with the point about not treating star articles differently according to hierarchical position. A minor point: in Chrome at least, the column widths in Version 2 are displaying as different (first column is wider). --[[User:(WT-en) Burmesedays|(WT-en) Burmesedays]] 23:21, 2 May 2010 (EDT) ::I kind of like the third one. It keeps the page compact while still catching your eye with the picture. Although I agree that the districts should be featured equally, do you think it would be better to group them under their city as a category? Obviously Chicago is the best example of this; There are so many districts from the same city, it just seems to make sense to group them together under the city rather than floating among the cities. [[User:(WT-en) ChubbyWimbus|(WT-en) ChubbyWimbus]] 01:12, 3 May 2010 (EDT) :::I like #2 also, looking good.... and once the whole city is a star, I don't see why it would be necessary to continue to list the individual districts as well, especially as the # of star articles grows &ndash; [[User:(WT-en) Cacahuate|(WT-en) <span style="color:green">cacahuate</span>]] ^{<small>[[User talk:(WT-en) Cacahuate|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]]</small>} 02:23, 3 May 2010 (EDT) ::::I would make a strong case for featuring all star articles be they districts of a starred city or cities within a starred region or whatever. From experience, I can say that it is a ''huge'' slog bringing a city or district templated article up to star standard, regardless of the status of its parent article, and we should in no way be demotivating users to do that. ::::I do though like ChubbyWimbus' idea of grouping the articles.--[[User:(WT-en) Burmesedays|(WT-en) Burmesedays]] 02:52, 3 May 2010 (EDT) :Peter, that's great! Personally I like #2 as well. One comment: maybe it's better to re-balance contintents across the columns to aviod "Continent (continued) on top of the 2nd column. Also, I think current captions for pictures add confusion. We'd better either remove them at all, or duplicate article name there. --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 03:00, 3 May 2010 (EDT) :: I prefer Version 2, too. I think the attribution is important and on the other hand might motivate people from grey parts to flip the coin. [[User:(WT-en) Jc8136|(WT-en) jan]] 05:50, 3 May 2010 (EDT) :::The problem I have with version 3 is that it omits the sparkling text that is supposed to be the keystone of a star article. Images are great, and absolutely needed, but it seems a shame not to include a bit of the text that is so important to gaining that star icon. =) As for columns within sections, it seems like there ought to be a way to do it. Wikipedia has templates to handle columnizing, but apparently they don't work in IE or Opera. Other than that, maybe tables are the only way to handle it. [[User:(WT-en) LtPowers|(WT-en) LtPowers]] 10:08, 3 May 2010 (EDT) 2 clearly seems the most popular, so I've made a bunch of the suggested revisions to it: '''Version 2 revised''' [http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Peterfitzgerald/Star_articles&oldid=1447232]. Image captions are gone (which I agree helps, and which mirrors our DotM features), thumbnail boxes are gone, Europe is subdivided by top-level regions, ToC is gone, and North America is now no longer split across columns. This makes the NA column long, leaving whitespace on the left, but this strikes me as less of a problem than it did before. Hopefully "The Rest of the World" will get its act together ;) Re: grouping districts by huge cities. I already did this? Or are you suggesting I strip the huge cities out from the top-level regions? --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 10:14, 3 May 2010 (EDT) :I am not so sure the captions were a mistake - I rather liked them. But no big deal. On groupings, it would make sense to me if Bali were followed by its two sub article stars — Nusa Lembongan and Ubud — rather than Singapore jumping into the middle. This is very good work. Well done done Peter.--[[User:(WT-en) Burmesedays|(WT-en) Burmesedays]] 11:00, 3 May 2010 (EDT) ::Looks great now! --[[User:(WT-en) DenisYurkin|(WT-en) DenisYurkin]] 15:22, 3 May 2010 (EDT) ::: Agreed &mdash; this is really nice work. [[User:(WT-en) Gorilla Jones|(WT-en) Gorilla Jones]] 19:14, 3 May 2010 (EDT) ::::Along with grouping the Bali regions, I was thinking that once there are a few districts from the same city, we give the city its own subheading like we would do if we had enough cities in the same country. The United States has already been given regional subheadings, and since there are plenty of Chicago districts (as well as the main city page), I think it would make sense to give "Chicago" a subheading. I think this will inevitably have to happen when we get more stars anyway, but Chicago is already ready for it. [[User:(WT-en) ChubbyWimbus|(WT-en) ChubbyWimbus]] 20:58, 3 May 2010 (EDT) :::::Point taken, since Chicago articles comprise 40% of our stars right now! I've added that extra subheading. I'm sure there are more possible improvements to the way this is presented (maybe giving a subtle background color to each subheading?), but I've reached the end of my ugly and incompetent css/html attempts. I figure I'll give this a week to see if anyone objects to the new format, then make it live. --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 23:32, 3 May 2010 (EDT) OK, I've now made the change, and I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out! It would be nice to spruce up the star section of the Main Page too—maybe make it more eye catching with use of the star icon? I really would like the star articles to be a main point of entry for new users. --[[User:(WT-en) Peterfitzgerald|(WT-en) Peter]] <small>^{[[User talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 21:48, 11 May 2010 (EDT) :Could we set up a section with a random selection of star articles? I wouldn't want to lose the "newest" list, though, so if it's too much to have both we should just stick with newest. [[User:(WT-en) LtPowers|(WT-en) LtPowers]] 22:53, 11 May 2010 (EDT) ==Diving Sites== The diving site just added is in Africa, but isn't the article a travel topic? Should it go there? [[User:(WT-en) ChubbyWimbus|(WT-en) ChubbyWimbus]] 03:13, 4 December 2009 (EST) :Yes, dive sites are travel topics and should be listed under that headline (for the same reason [[Chicago skyline guide]] is there and not under "Midwest"). [[User:(WT-en) LtPowers|(WT-en) LtPowers]] 09:42, 4 December 2009 (EST) == WT stars map &mdash; colours == I find the blue dots used to identify location of the subjects of our star articles do not show up well on the map. I suggest a higher contrast colour. Maybe something really bright &mdash; after all stars traditionally are points of light in the surrounding darkness. Cheers, • • • [[User:(WT-en) Pbsouthwood|(WT-en) Peter (Southwood)]] <small>^{[[User talk:Pbsouthwood|Talk]]}</small> 03:02, 7 October 2011 (EDT) == Namespace == Why was this page moved into the main namespace? It's not a destination or travel topic. It contains information not about travel, but about Wikivoyage itself (a list of pages that are star articles on Wikivoyage), so it should be in the project namespace. I think the same also applies to [[Previous Destinations of the month]], [[Previously Off the beaten path]], and [[Previous Featured travel topics]]. <span style="color:#339989;">–[[User:Sumone10154|'''<span style="color:#339989;">sumone10154</span>''']]^{([[User talk:Sumone10154|<span style="color:#339989;">talk</span>]])}</span> 21:18, 16 October 2012 (CEST) :[[Wikivoyage:Star articles]] should give an explanation what Star articles are, similar to [[Wikivoyage:Guide articles]]. This is a showcase article linked to from the Main Page. It would be odd to send site visitors from the Main Page into the Project namespace if they are not interested in editing articles. On Wikipedia, these showcase articles have a special Portal namespace, maybe that could be a solution for this issue. Please continue this discussion at [[Talk:Previous Destinations of the month#Namespace]]. --[[User:Globe-trotter|Globe-trotter]] ([[User talk:Globe-trotter|talk]]) 00:43, 17 October 2012 (CEST) ==Missing image== The [[Sheki]] entry is missing an appropriate image leading to a less-than-showcase appearance. 14:55, 28 December 2012 Thehelpfulbot (Talk | contribs) deleted page File:Xan Saray Courtyard.jpg (Cleanup: Deleting empty file pages) -- [[User:Alice/About_Me|<b><span style="color:#0000DD">A</span><span style="color:#0066FF">l</span><span style="color:#0099FF">i</span><span style="color:#00CCFF">c</span><span style="color:#00EEFF">e</span></b>]][[Special:Emailuser/Alice|<span style="color:#FF3333">^✉</span>]] 05:49, 17 January 2013 (UTC) :I've been working on getting the Sheki photos transferred today, but the old lead image, unfortunately, will be lost. I'll see if I can't dig up a better one, but for now I've swapped photos. --[[User:Peterfitzgerald|Peter]] <small>^{[[User_talk:Peterfitzgerald|Talk]]}</small> 06:17, 17 January 2013 (UTC) == Collaboration == Does this project have a collaborative effort such as "Collaboration of the Week", or month, etc.? Many WikiProjects on Wikipedia use this model to bring editors together to work on articles. It would be nice if a group of quality editors could work together to promote articles to star status. --[[User:Another Believer|Another Believer]] ([[User talk:Another Believer|talk]]) 00:46, 16 February 2013 (UTC) : Oh, and may I suggest starting with my personal favorite, Portland, Oregon?! :P --[[User:Another Believer|Another Believer]] ([[User talk:Another Believer|talk]]) 00:46, 16 February 2013 (UTC) :: See [[Wikivoyage:Collaboration of the month]]. -- [[User:Wrh2|Ryan]] &bull; ([[User talk:Wrh2|talk]]) &bull; 01:02, 16 February 2013 (UTC) ==Maintaining Star Status== Because the world is always changing, I think it would be helpful to establish some sort of guide/rule for maintaining star status. What I propose is for periodic checks of information (prices, websites, if the places even still exist, etc.) and write on the article's Talk Page what you checked and in what sections. For example, "Verified 'Eat' listing information" and include the date. That way, others can see it and know what has been updated and when. This is NOT a proposal to remove star status. It is just a way to track exactly how dated our stars are. If an article was made a star 6 years ago, that would mean it's overdo for a check-up. If a star HAS been verified, it would be good to have a record of when/what so that other users know either to move on to another article to verify or to do another check-up. If the check-up reveals a lot of changes that the user is unable to simply update themselves, they could then nominate it for de-starring and hopefully others could save it. If not, of course, it would have to be downgraded, but it's better for us to downgrade an article that is grossly outdated than it is to have star status be an end-all. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 16:19, 6 April 2014 (UTC) ==Map== A star needs to be added to represent [[Okayama]]'s recent addition. I cannot do it myself. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 14:51, 23 May 2015 (UTC) :I've done this, though it's hard to tell because [[Hiroshima]] is right next door. For future reference, it's a pretty easy task. [[User:LtPowers|Powers]] <small>^{([[User talk:LtPowers|talk]])}</small> 00:15, 24 May 2015 (UTC) == Removing star status altogether == {{swept}} Don't get me wrong, I'm not opposed to star status. However, since things can get out of date, and many of star articles don't even have coordinates (and, therefore, do not really showcase the best of Wikivoyage), I think it might be worthwhile to consider removing star status for articles and merge these into "guide" status. The problem is that there are some articles which are really good and perhaps deserve even more than just guide status. However, I think requirements like custom pagebanners, etc. make guide status a high level to reach for an article, let alone star status. Star status seems to be over-the-top; e.g., all the nominating just to give an article a status that most people wouldn't notice anyway, or understand what it all means. An example of a star article that's not particularly good is [[Menzies]]. Quite a few of the listings don't even have coordinates. I brought this up on the [[Talk:Menzies|Menzies talk page]] but got no response. There are probably many guide articles that are just as good as the [[Menzies]] article, just that they haven't been nominated yet. What do others think about this? Removing star status would be a big step, but it would save us a lot of time over something that isn't particularly important, IMO. Is everyone okay with this being posted here? If it should be at [[Wikivoyage talk:Star articles]] or somewhere like that, I'll move it, but I doubt it would get the attention there that is necessary for discussing something this important. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 04:18, 9 November 2018 (UTC) :I don't pay much attention to star status, but there are some editors who put a lot of effort into improving articles to get them to star status, and improving articles is good. So I'd be in favour if keeping it. Would we consider making the status a tine-limited thing, i.e., it automatically expires after two years, after which it is reviewed to see if it has been updated enough (and kept up with our changing requirements for star status) to warrant the status being renewed? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 04:23, 9 November 2018 (UTC) :: Star status is a good way to motivate people to improve an article and to highlight a good article, but yes with [{{Catscancall}}?project=wikivoyage&depth=10&categories=Listings_with_no_coordinates%0D%0AStar_articles&show_redirects=no&doit=1 45 star status articles that have listings without coordinates] a time limit or formal review would be a good idea. Not sure the [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations#Nominations to remove Star status|Nominations to remove Star status]] process is working at the moment. --[[User:Traveler100|Traveler100]] ([[User talk:Traveler100|talk]]) 06:16, 9 November 2018 (UTC) ::: Star articles are written one by one over time and probably edited less than others (not that much to improve), so it is quite natural they are written to older standards – and not updated much more often than articles in general. But they are not too many, 74 in [[:Category:Star articles]], so making an expedition to find banner images, update listings etc. would not be too difficult. I do not use the star status too much, but when trying to learn what to aim for, the star articles of similar type are a good starting point. And besides motivating editors, I am sure many readers enjoy the star guides. So, I suggest making a concerted effort to get the star articles worth their stars. Later, I think the periodic review is also a good tool. When we have assured star articles are up to current standards, I think we should start giving them more visibility, e.g. wp-sv features a star of the day on their main page. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:29, 9 November 2018 (UTC) ::I agree that some people really enjoy that process and status, so I'm inclined to keep it. ::It sounds like adding coordinates to star articles could be a useful COTM. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 16:54, 9 November 2018 (UTC) :::I '''strongly oppose''' removing star status altogether, but conversely '''strongly support''' reviewing articles marked as stars to check whether they really fulfil the criteria. Fixer-uppers should be fixed, and those which require more work may be bumped down to whatever status is appropriate. A COTM could well be the best way to handle this, and one which I may even participate in. --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 17:34, 9 November 2018 (UTC) : Just in case people have not noticed, this months [[cotm]] is adding coordinates to listings of star status articles. Although a few have been done in the last week, it is a lot of work. Will need more contributors to complete them all by the end of the month. All welcome to join in. --[[User:Traveler100|Traveler100]] ([[User talk:Traveler100|talk]]) 18:06, 9 November 2018 (UTC) ::I'd keep the concept of Star status articles, though we somehow need to streamline the process for the nomination, and that might include rethinking the requirements for Star status. For years the Star article nomination has been at a standstill, with the oldest discussion being started back in 2014. When you notice this, you probably don't feel much enthusiasm nominating new articles or otherwise participating in the discussions. ::Almost all of the current star articles were largely written back in the Wikitravel era before we had dynamic maps and by editors that have left the project. This means we don't necessarily have anyone on board who knows all the small details about e.g. districts of [[Chicago]] and [[Washington, D.C.]] or [[Bali]], and as the Star articles almost certainly are out of date to some extent, their status should be reviewed. Instead, there might be other articles that are worthy of Star status — for instance articles that have been recently featured on the Main Page. -- [[User:Ypsilon|<span style="color:#0000ff"><b>ϒ</b>ψιλον</span>]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|<span style="color:#333333">talk</span>]]) 20:48, 9 November 2018 (UTC) As the discussion period stated on [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations]] is 3 weeks, should we not remove most of the nomanation proposals currently there. Then maybe start afresh with hopefully more people assisting. --[[User:Traveler100|Traveler100]] ([[User talk:Traveler100|talk]]) 16:32, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :Sure, although there are some 2018 nominations that are still valid and haven't been reviewed much yet. All the other nominations are like ''[[w:Jarndyce and Jarndyce|Jarndyce v Jarndyce]]''. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 16:37, 10 November 2018 (UTC) ::Clearly the 3 week period is too short. It's not just a question of deciding whether or not an article is good enough (akin to deciding whether or not a user is fit to be admin), there's a process whereby the community gives suggestions on how the article can be improved, and these suggestions then have to be agreed to and effectuated. There has been, for instance, much useful feedback on my Farnborough nomination which I intend to implement, but haven't had the chance to do so, and no-one else seems bothered to. I don't see why there has to be an arbitrary time limit - the articles aren't going anywhere and, for the most part, neither are we - but it does take time to imagine and implement perfection :-) Time that we, as volunteers with busy lives, don't always have in spades. --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 17:05, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :::Well, the 3-week period hasn't been followed at least since mid-2014; perhaps if it was followed, we'd get more done in relation to our star articles. And with the nominations that are 3+ years old, enough feedback has been provided, IMO. I'm not saying there's anything wrong with feedback, but after a few years it's long past time to decide whether the nomination should succeed or fail. Reasons to support/oppose were listed years ago; long ago, it was time to come to a decision, and we didn't, so now we should. :::However, with the newer nominations, feedback is needed and would be very helpful. And I think the period for nominating could be expanded to 2 months, perhaps, but not much more. What's needed at the [[WV:Star nominations]] page is more activity, not more time. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 17:12, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :::: Extending discussion period to 2 months sound like a good idea. --[[User:Traveler100|Traveler100]] ([[User talk:Traveler100|talk]]) 17:28, 10 November 2018 (UTC) ::::: I suppose two months is enough for people to see the nomination and give initial feedback. If the discussion is then moved to the article's talk page, the improvements can be made and the discussions go on. I have not been involved, so I cannot say whether there is some timeframe beyond two months in which the articles could get ready for being accepted, but if it takes more than a year, a new nomination is probably more useful. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:41, 10 November 2018 (UTC) ::::::Are there any objections to expanding the time to 2 months? If not, I will make the change; however, if we set 2 months as the limit, I think we should get those really old nominations out of the way. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 17:53, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :::::::As long as the discussions are swept to the article's talk page, as LPfi suggested, and not uselessly archived into oblivion, I can support a two month limit. --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 18:15, 10 November 2018 (UTC) {{outdent}}Okay; I'll adjust accordingly. And now it's time to keep the page current so that [[Wikivoyage:Star nominations]] never gets abandoned again. Once again, thanks for all the input on this. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 18:23, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :[[User:K7L|K7L]] plunged forward with [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Wikivoyage:Star_nominations&oldid=prev&diff=3646620&diffmode=source this edit]. I'm not exactly opposed to it, but after a decision was made by the community I don't see why this should be edited so quickly. :Hopefully, though, everyone's okay with K7L's edit. Then we can move ahead with the star nominations. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 23:17, 10 November 2018 (UTC) ::The whole point of the proposed two-month period was to leave a reasonable amount of time to fix any deficiencies in the article. If there's consensus that a page is ready to go as-is, why wait so long? [[User:K7L|K7L]] ([[User talk:K7L|talk]]) 23:30, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :::Yes, I agree there. If there's consensus to make it a star article, we should go ahead and make it one. I think I understand your edit better now; I thought more that you were reinforcing the old three-week rule ''despite'' the consensus on this page. But if you're just helping articles reach star status faster if there ''is'' consensus, then I don't think anyone will be against that. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 23:32, 10 November 2018 (UTC) ===Progress on the star nominations=== We've brought down the list of star nominations from 11 to 9 and I'm waiting a little before I look to slush a couple more. The star nominations revival back in early September was short-lived, and while there was quite a lot of activity, not any real progress was made other than expanding the list of nominations. This time, a lot to do with [[User:Traveler100|Traveler100]]'s nomination to de-star [[La Macarena]] and update some policy details, real progress is being made. The progress is that T100 has upgraded [[Travemunde]] to star and I've made a couple minor edits to the article itself &mdash; things like bullets before a couple listings, a better spot for paragraph, so we can get moving with these nominations. I also slushed the nomination for [[Indianapolis]]. I'm hoping to get consensus to slush [[Quy Nhon]] and perhaps slush [[Kraainem]], along with a support vote for [[Childs]]. All that is needed is input, which does not require too much knowledge about the articles. Really just confirmations so we can get the star nominations going the way they should again. Everyone who has helped on this, thanks for your help so far as we continue to make Wikivoyage a great travel guide. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 18:22, 10 November 2018 (UTC) :Yep, the progress continues. We're getting close to being able to slush one and we've also nominated a new one, [[Bouzigues]] and there are 2 de-star nominations, [[La Macarena]] and [[Isle Royale National Park]]. Technically, I still should mention this information here per policy, but we'll see how that goes soon. <small>--Comment by </small> '''[[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">Selfie City</span>]]''' ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:olive">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:Olive">contributions</span>]]) 21:04, 11 November 2018 (UTC) == Map is outdated == {{mapframe|zoom=2}} There are have been several new star articles added since the last time the map was updated. Is there anyone capable of updating it who's willing to do so? If not, should we remove it and replace with a dynamic map that at least most people can keep updated? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 16:38, 23 November 2020 (UTC) :{{Ping|ThunderingTyphoons!}}Yes, it looks like it was last updated in 2017. I agree that a dynamic map would be the way to go. I think what we need is for [[Template:Star-article-archive]] to be updated to accept a wikidata ID that can then populate [[Template:Mapframe]] in the same way that [[Template:Marker]], [[Template:Listing]], and [[Template:Mapgroup-item]] do. The programming is beyond my capabilities. --[[User:Nricardo|Nelson Ricardo]] ([[User talk:Nricardo|talk]]) 07:35, 1 February 2021 (UTC) ::I don't know whether that would be strictly necessary; we could just put the names of each article in geomarkers {{marker|type=gold|name=like this|lat=1.2345|long=6.7890}}.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 09:08, 1 February 2021 (UTC) :::There seems to be a hard return somewhere (in [[Template:Star-article-archive]], I suspect) that prevents integrating this cleanly with the existing article format: {{marker|type=gold|name=[[Singapore]]|lat=1.29|long=103.82}}{{Star-article-archive | image=Singapore Skyline.jpg | article=[[Singapore]] | description=is a city-state in [[Southeast Asia]]. Founded as a British trading colony in 1819, since independence it has become one of the world's most prosperous countries and sports the world's busiest port. Combining the skyscrapers and subways of a modern, affluent city with a medley of Chinese, Indian and Malay influences and a tropical climate, with tasty food, good shopping and a vibrant nightlife scene, this Garden City makes a great stopover or springboard into the region. }} :::--[[User:Nricardo|Nelson Ricardo]] ([[User talk:Nricardo|talk]]) 10:49, 1 February 2021 (UTC) ::::{{Ping|Wrh2}} If you have a chance, would you please see if anything can be done with this? Thank you! --[[User:Nricardo|Nelson Ricardo]] ([[User talk:Nricardo|talk]]) 11:00, 1 February 2021 (UTC) I've plunged ahead and added a dynamic map and have started adding markers. This will not be a one-day task. I greatly dislike the layout/organization of the article. I find the HTML and two columns needlessly complicated and difficult to edit. I think it should just use wiki-style sections. Does anybody else have an opinion on this? --[[User:Nricardo|Nelson Ricardo]] ([[User talk:Nricardo|talk]]) 15:09, 7 February 2021 (UTC) That didn't take as long as I thought. I left out markers for districts of star cities and other "sub-articles", as well as non-location-specific articles. It would be great if someone could make sure I haven't omitted anything or otherwise messed up. --[[User:Nricardo|Nelson Ricardo]] ([[User talk:Nricardo|talk]]) 18:58, 7 February 2021 (UTC) :Fantastic! Thanks for doing that.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 22:05, 7 February 2021 (UTC) rz6ttfb5uo70g5oikl4f31ff9cxg7hu 5 69899 5090980 5079225 2025-07-10T17:38:39Z Martin4073 2329236 /* Motel Accommodation in Owen Sound, ON */ new section 5090980 wikitext text/x-wiki {{infobox|Archived discussions|* [[Wikivoyage talk:User page help/Archive 2004-2013]] }} == Something to worry about? == I noticed an [[Special:Contributions/124.253.76.62|IP editing someone's user page more than once]] and first suspected it to be somebody vandalizing somebody else's user page. After looking at the: * [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Rajvir_Singh&action=history history of said user page], * [[Special:Contributions/Rajvir_Singh|the contributions]] of the user the page belongs to, * plus the two [[User talk:Rajvir Singh|reprimands on his talk page]] ...I'm afraid all of his edits (both as IP and as a user) could be classified as promotion, something discouraged per [[Wikivoyage:User page help]]. However it is his own user page, not articles... Should we do something? [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:44, 10 March 2014 (UTC) :The entire page is arguably spam and certainly questionable, but we absolutely should not allow an IP to edit someone's user page without a clear explanation, so I have reverted IP edits to that user page. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 18:04, 10 March 2014 (UTC) ::Thanks! I had no idea what to do or say to the IP or to the user... :P [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:31, 10 March 2014 (UTC) ::: I think in general we want to be fairly lenient with user pages and err on the side of being too permissive rather than judiciously policing user pages, but if someone has already been warned about self-promotion and continues then further scrutiny is probably warranted. Wikipedia has [[w:Wikipedia:User page#What may I not have in my user pages?|numerous examples]] about what they view as acceptable (note that they preface that with "''The Wikipedia community is generally tolerant and offers fairly wide latitude in applying these guidelines to regular participants''"), and it might be useful to follow that example and make our guidelines more explicit than what is currently stated in the second paragraph of [[Wikivoyage:User page help#Brief introduction]]. -- [[User:Wrh2|Ryan]] &bull; ([[User talk:Wrh2|talk]]) &bull; 18:38, 10 March 2014 (UTC) ::::I doubt anyone affected by this is likely to read the guidelines anyway. If we are to be circumspect in the number of new rules we add, I think this would have to be a very low priority. [[User:LtPowers|Powers]] <small>^{([[User talk:LtPowers|talk]])}</small> 19:48, 10 March 2014 (UTC) :::::I think [[User:LtPowers|Powers]] is right on this one. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:28, 11 March 2014 (UTC) :::::: I agree that problem users are unlikely to read or follow advice on our policy pages, so any clarification would be directed to people who patrol such things. At present our advice on the subject could be clearer, as evidenced by the question that started this thread. -- [[User:Wrh2|Ryan]] &bull; ([[User talk:Wrh2|talk]]) &bull; 06:23, 11 March 2014 (UTC) :::::::We need to separate out two questions: (1) Is [[tout]]ing tolerated on user pages? Answer: No. Users can say who they are and what they do, but if they are clearly touting, their user pages need to be deleted for that reason, with an explanation in their user talk pages. (2) Are IP users or any other users allowed to edit other users' user pages, except to enforce policies that are clearly being violated? Answer: No. No-one but the user him-/herself should edit his/her user page, except when it is in violation of policies that need to be enforced. If the user forgot to log in, s/he should explain that, and then the edits to the user page should be permitted - again, unless they violated some important policy. That's my take on this discussion. Any disagreements with it? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:38, 11 March 2014 (UTC) ::::::::Yes; I believe users should be able to fix broken links on other users' pages (example: user links to a page called "Foo"; page is moved to "Foo, Bar" and "Foo" becomes a disambiguation page; we should be allowed to fix that link from "Foo" to "Foo, Bar"). Other than that, I agree. [[User:LtPowers|Powers]] <small>^{([[User talk:LtPowers|talk]])}</small> 20:59, 11 March 2014 (UTC) :::::::::I take your point, Powers. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:26, 11 March 2014 (UTC) == My own itinerary == My wife and I are planning a world trip, and I wonder whether it would be appropriate to put the itinerary on my user page? If it were a little thing, I would just do it without bothering to ask, but we're thinking of a trip lasting many years, so I wonder if that is an appropriate use of the space. (Of course it is all text, no images, and I would link everything to Wikivoyage pages. It might even be helpful to someone other than my wife and me as a source of ideas.) Thanks for your help! [[User:Wyote|Wyote]] ([[User talk:Wyote|talk]]) 06:26, 7 May 2015 (UTC) :You certainly can put that on your user page. If you have specific questions about any part of your itinerary, you could also post questions at [[Wikivoyage:Tourist Office]]. Happy trails! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:27, 7 May 2015 (UTC) == The boundary between non-interference with userspace and the accuracy of our content == {{Swept}} Have a look at [[User:DAZ14LPA#No-Go's]], which states that "I heard that if you speak English [in Quebec], you get dirty looks, unintentionally start a fight, or could get shot". Needless to say, this is patently and, I would say, offensively untrue. There are over a million Québécois who speak English natively, to say nothing of the millions more tourists who visit uneventfully each year from English-speaking regions of Canada, the U.S., and elsewhere in the Anglosphere, not to mention that gun violence (of any kind, let alone for reasons as innocuous as speaking the "wrong" language) is extremely rare in Canada. I realize that the Wiki custom is to allow editors a little bit more leeway when it comes to their own userspace, and I also realize that some random editor's user page is going to see far less traffic than our actual [[Quebec]] destination article. However, we must also consider Wikivoyage's responsibility to ensure that the information we provide to our readers is as accurate as possible, and I think the chance, however unlikely, of someone reading that and being misled as to the safety of travelling in Quebec handily outweighs whatever value it may bring to this editor's userspace. My initial inclination was to simply delete the passage, but on second thought, I figured it might be better to bring up the issue here. -- [[User:AndreCarrotflower|AndreCarrotflower]] ([[User talk:AndreCarrotflower|talk]]) 07:53, 13 May 2020 (UTC) : I am not that worried about people getting wrong information from user pages, but this indeed seems it might need curating. As the user seems to be serious, I think one should point to this discussion on the user talk, tell the user he or she has got the wrong impression and ask them to reword such passages. Blatant passages can be removed and the removal explained afterwards, but I suppose that is not needed here. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:21, 13 May 2020 (UTC) : I'd leave it. I think most readers will recognise from context &mdash; he or she craps on a long list of places, IMHO mostly for silly reasons &mdash; that he or she is just acting dumb & repeating hearsay. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 08:28, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::Either of Pashley's or LPfi's approach are better than charging in and changing it yourself. I personally wouldn't even bother bringing it up as it's obvious to anyone reading that it's someone's ill-informed opinion. On balance, Babel boxes which claim a level of English higher than a user is obviously capable of are more damaging, but I still wouldn't tell a user to "downgrade" themselves from e.g. en-4 to en-2. But if you feel you must tackle this person on Quebec, then leave them a message, explain your reasons etc. But if they refuse to change it, that's their prerogative. You should then drop the issue; it's not worth a fight.[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 09:31, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::I agree with [[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]]. It's best to leave userspace alone, and if people read misinformation outside of our "official" website content, it is their duty to recognize it and ignore it. After all, how would someone even find this user's content without specifically searching for his/her userspace, let alone assume said misinformation is more accurate than our mainspace article specifically dedicated to [[Quebec]]? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 14:52, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::::Though I've been unable to figure out where it was swept to, I remember a discussion in the [[pub]] about the trend in web traffic to Wikivoyage vis-à-vis COVID in which it was noted that the user page of long-inactive editor [[User:Nicholasjf21]] had become one of the most-visited pages on the site for some reason. I'm not sure what that signifies, but I think it serves to complicate any arguments based on the obscurity of this user's userspace. -- [[User:AndreCarrotflower|AndreCarrotflower]] ([[User talk:AndreCarrotflower|talk]]) 16:13, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::::I thought we (being those who participated in that discussion) generally agreed that was due to an error in how page views were counted. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 16:20, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::You may well be right; I don't remember how that discussion resolved. At any rate, while I continue to think the idea of an editor trash-talking specific destinations is in poor taste and unbecoming a travel site (and doing so based on untrue information worse still), I don't see any point in forcing the issue. -- [[User:AndreCarrotflower|AndreCarrotflower]] ([[User talk:AndreCarrotflower|talk]]) 16:24, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::[https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Wikivoyage:Travellers%27_pub&oldid=3959836#wikivoyage_monthly_statistics Here is the discussion]. I think it was right to inform the user, as you have done, but at that point s/he ought to make the right decision on his/her own. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 16:30, 13 May 2020 (UTC) Note: actually I think I have the wrong discussion. ::::::::A couple of discussions about this user's User Page:[[User_talk:DAZ14LPA#Montreal]], [[User_talk:Traveler100bot#Do_not_touch_my_page]]. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:15, 13 May 2020 (UTC) I'm not pro-censorship, but I'm also opposed to Wikivoyage user pages being used to make false and offensive statements. They really shouldn't be used for anything beyond Wikivoyage business and whatever biographical information the user wants to share, but we really only need be concerned where the user crosses a line like this one. Wikipedia has a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:User_pages#What_may_I_not_have_in_my_user_pages? useful and reasonable policy] on this that I think we should adopt. I will paraphrase some key points to illustrate what I mean: * Wikivoyage is not a general hosting service, so your user page is not a personal website. Your user page is about you as a Wikivoyager. *A user page should not be used to post material that is likely to bring the project into disrepute, or which is likely to give widespread offence (e.g., pro-pedophilia advocacy). Wikivoyage is not a soapbox. We have had an issue with one contributor who, after a long spell of contributing useful travel information, began editing articles to promote anti-Semitic and racist views. That person was banned from the site, appropriately. I don't think that we can trust in the judgement of all of our contributors. In this case, the editor was notified five years ago that the statement about Quebec are blatantly false, and yet s/he has left the statement in place. I suggest notifying the user that the statement is false and offensive and that it must be removed. If so/he fails to do so, it will be removed by an admin. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 17:52, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :I'm not sure whether this is the contributor you're talking about, Ground Zero, but we still have a set of politically charged userpages about a [[User:Libertarianmoderate/Alex_Nation|made-up country]] from a user who is now banned. As long as we're talking about how to handle controversial userspace content, should we delete these? Given the userban for related issues and how extensive and irrelevant the pages are, I lean towards deleting them. I'm not sure how best to handle the Quebec issue. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 18:15, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::These have been deleted. Wikivoyage is not free web-hosting for personal stuff. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:10, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::No, I was referring to [[User:ArticCynda]], who I think is a different person. But yes, why would we host these pages? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 18:30, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::It took me a moment to find it. We have our own policy on user pages, [[Wikivoyage:User page help]], which says, in part, :::"Remember that Wikivoyage is not a personal home page service or a vacation photo service. Overloaded User pages are considered a form of abuse. In addition, while it is OK to associate yourself with your company if you work for or run a business, user pages should not be used for advertising." ::On that basis, we can delete made-up country pages. I think we should expand the "should not be used for advertising" to include "false statements, and statements that denigrate another user or identifiable group". [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 18:38, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::No, we shouldn't. Who decides what constitutes a "false statement"? It's not your intention, as stated, but that sounds like the excuse authoritarian regimes give for censorship of free speech to me. I fail to see any justification for intervening over a mild bit of userpage moaning, especially when links are being drawn with two users who systematically inserted hate-speech across Wikivoyage. These are two completely different things. Anyone who denigrates another user or who actually engages in hate speech, advocacy of paedophilia etc can already be sanctioned by existing policy.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 18:59, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::: Btw, I support deleting the Libmod made up countries, which again are completely different to the situation which triggered this discussion. [[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 19:04, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :Going behind my back to discuss a joke I made on my userpage without consulting is not okay. I will delete the passage, as is implied and close my account. [[User:DAZ14LPA|Donny]] ([[User talk:DAZ14LPA|talk]]) 19:06, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::No one has been shot in Quebec for speaking English. You can google it. Free speech does not give anyone the right to spread false news. And Wikivoyage should not be a platform for false statements. It doesn't seem like anyone understands that it is a joke, so we won't treat it as one. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:10, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::I know that no one has been shot in Quebec for not speaking French, it was only a minor jab at the independence movement, but I have deleted the passage and will not edit anymore; it seems that is what you want. [[User:DAZ14LPA|Donny]] ([[User talk:DAZ14LPA|talk]]) 19:14, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::{{Ping|ThunderingTyphoons!}} While existing policy allows us to sanctions users for such statements, under what policy can we delete them from user pages? If there is a policy, I'll be happy. This is really about clarifying that a Wikivoyage user page is not the property of the user. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:12, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::::{{ping|Ground Zero}}[[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]], [[Wikivoyage:Keep Wikivoyage fun]], [[Wikivoyage:Child protection policy]], through [[Wikivoyage: Administrators|Revision deletion]].[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 19:21, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::::Those don't specifically mention user talk pages, and they don't address the comment in question in this discussion, so I think it would be helpful to clarify at [[Wikivoyage:User page help]] that user pages are not a place for false statements about a person, group or place. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:26, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::They don't need to mention user pages, because any hate speech/paedophilia content is removed and usually rev del'd wherever it shows up in Wikivoyage, per those policies. But again, who defines a "false statement"? The truth police? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 19:37, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::::It would be the Wikivoyage Community, by a warm and friendly consensus, like everything else we do here. Not very truth police-y at all. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:52, 13 May 2020 (UTC) Should I post [[User:Libertarianmoderate/Alex Nation]] and his other fictional destination userspace pages at [[vfd]]? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 13:39, 14 May 2020 (UTC) ===Resolved=== The immediate issue has been resolved. {{Ping|DAZ14LPA}} has removed the comment from his user page. Thank you, Donny, for doing so, and for being reasonable about this. I'll bring up the broader issue at [[Wikivoyage:User page help]] at some point. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:15, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :Thank you for going behind my back to bring it up. Please, next time there is an issue, bring it up on my talk page instead.[[User:DAZ14LPA|Donny]] ([[User talk:DAZ14LPA|talk]]) 19:20, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::Please see my response to your comment at [[User talk:AndreCarrotflower]]. Thanks, [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:26, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::I'm glad this has been resolved, but yes, in the future I think it's best to bring these things up on the relevant user talk page before starting a discussion in the pub. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 19:42, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::::[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]], please see the related discussion at [[User talk:AndreCarrotflower#Why didn't you just talk to me?]], specifically my comment timestamped 23:29, 13 May 2020. Taking the issue to the pub was not a first resort. -- [[User:AndreCarrotflower|AndreCarrotflower]] ([[User talk:AndreCarrotflower|talk]]) 14:39, 14 May 2020 (UTC) :::::As I understand it, the "first resort" was a comment five years ago in which you didn't specifically ask the user to remove the material. When you discovered the material had reappeared this year, it would have been more diplomatic to first leave a message on the user talk page asking the user to remove it, and only come to the pub if that was unsuccessful. The rest of us (including me) could also be more thoughtful about how to comment, remembering that, as [[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] said, we're talking about a real person. With a big community-wide discussion after the issue hadn't come up for years, I think it's easy to see how this could feel like a sudden and unpleasant pile-on. Not trying to blame anyone, just offering a suggestion for the future. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 17:08, 14 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::On the face of it, I agree with you. And I'm generally of the opinion that we should normally avoid editing user pages except in cases of spam and vandalism and other extreme cases. Remarks that are merely untrue and perhaps stupid could be discussed on the user's talk page and nominated for deletion if no satisfactory solution is arrived at, but let's face it, this isn't a high-traffic wiki like Wikipedia, so a few dumb words in a dark corner are unlikely to have severe ill effects on the site. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 13:00, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ===Proposal about offensive material on user pages=== I've made a proposal to provide additional guidance on user pages about not using them to post offensive material [[Wikivoyage talk:User page help|here]]. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:38, 15 May 2020 (UTC) == Additional guidance on user pages == We have had occasional problems with users who are looking for a platform for diatribes against certain groups, including users who espouse racist or anti-Semitic views. While it is straightforward to handle this issue in articles, some users still seem to think that user pages "belong" to the user. We do try to disavow users of that notion with this advice: :"Remember that Wikivoyage is not a personal home page service or a vacation photo service. Overloaded User pages are considered a form of abuse. In addition, while it is OK to associate yourself with your company if you work for or run a business, user pages should not be used for advertising." But that advice seems to limit the guidance to photos and advertising. I'd like to make it clear that a Wikivoyage user page isn't a place for spouting off offensive views by adding this text adapted from Wikipedia, which has dealt with this issue in the past: :"A user page should not be used to post material that is likely to bring the project into disrepute, or which is likely to give widespread offence. Wikivoyage is not a soapbox." It would be up to the community to decide whether something is disreputable or offensive. Let's hope that this warning is enough to disarm the "free speech" argument. (They can say whatever they want elsewhere, but this is a travel guide, not a personal web page.) There are lots of other dark, scary places on the Internet where racists and anti-Semites can say whatever they want and will be applauded by like-minded cretins (not that I'm judging anyone). They don't have to use a travel guide for this purpose. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:30, 15 May 2020 (UTC) : The problem is keeping the guideline strict enough. E.g. "bringing the project into disrepute" could be used to censor justified criticism. I do not think there is such a risk at the moment, but rules should be made to work also under pressure. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:54, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::Would we actually use it that way though? If we can't trust the judgement of the Wikivoyage Community, then we have have nothing. I think this is preferable to trying to come up with a list of "prohibited topics", which in itself would be contentious. This is the wording used by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:User_pages#What_may_I_not_have_in_my_user_pages? Wikipedia], which has a longer history and a bigger group of people thinking about this. Here are details from that policy for clarification, although I don't know if we want to import the level of detail: :::"Polemical statements unrelated to Wikipedia, or statements attacking or vilifying groups of editors, persons, or other entities (these are generally considered divisive and removed, and reintroducing them is often considered disruptive). :::"Material that can be viewed as attacking other editors, including the recording of perceived flaws. The compilation of factual evidence (diffs) in user subpages, for purposes such as preparing for a dispute resolution process, is permitted provided it will be used in a timely manner. :::"Users should generally not maintain in public view negative information related to others without very good reason. Negative evidence, laundry lists of wrongs, collations of diffs and criticisms related to problems, etc., should be removed, blanked, or kept privately (i.e., not on the wiki) if they will not be imminently used, and the same once no longer needed." ::[[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:02, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::: I don't think we actually would use it in that way, but I can imagine a user justifying removal of such content with the wording (possibly in relation to a personal conflict about how some issue should be handled), causing unnecessary drama. An "unrelated to Wikivoyage" could help (but "causing widespread offence" should not be tolerated even if related to Wikivoyage). There may be other issues along the same lines. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:18, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::::We could clarify that individual users should not be making this determination: :::::"A user page should not be used to post material that is, in the opinion of the Wikivoyage community, likely to bring the project into disrepute, or which is likely to give widespread offence. Wikivoyage is not a soapbox." ::::Is there anything that people would post related to Wikivoyage that would bring the project into disrepute? If there is an issue that has been decided by the community, and someone wants to keep banging on about it on their user page, is it needed? The records of the community debate would already exist on policy talk pages, so it's not like we'd be trying to bury the issue. (All of the discussion about ArticCynda is still available.) But should a user page be a platform for ongoing campaigning on an issue? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:34, 15 May 2020 (UTC) :::::Possible alternative: ::::::User pages should be limited to either wiki-related content or other, non-controversial information a user decides to share. Violations of this policy should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis through [[Wikivoyage:Consensus|consensus]] established in the community. Content that is not deemed unacceptable should always be considered acceptable. :::::I think it's important to clarify that content should by default be deemed acceptable along the lines of "innocent until proven guilty." This would hopefully encourage free speech as long as it does not violate the guidelines. :::::We could additionally offer examples to make the distinction clear: ::::::Examples of acceptable material: places visited, biographies (assuming they do not reveal personal information), user sandbox, travel articles not allowed in mainspace ::::::Examples of unacceptable material: potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, threats, or any other material that is likely to bring the project into disrepute, or which is likely to give widespread offence :::::<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 13:27, 15 May 2020 (UTC) {{outdent}}If we have to have a policy like this, then (a) I'm very glad that no-one is mentioning removing things which are "untrue" anymore, and (b) I mostly prefer the wording suggested by Selfie City to be combined with the "clarifications" offered by Ground Zero about negative information about other editors, mainly because it's more specific and therefore less likely to be abused in the future. I don't believe the current crop of admins and crats would abuse the notion of "offence", but we're not just writing policy for now; it needs to be future-proofed. I especially like "Content that is not deemed unacceptable should always be considered acceptable". This with the exception that it is perfectly okay to reveal as much or as little personal information about yourself as you like. Most of us opt to keep things more private, but there aren't and shouldn't be any rules against revealing our own personal details. It's rather too late for some of us in that respect anyway. As much as I appreciate the answer given by Ground Zero in the Pub ("It would be the Wikivoyage Community [who decides what's offensive etc], by a warm and friendly consensus, like everything else we do here.") I'd still want to understand how exactly that would work. Your answer basically describes the approach taken regarding the material which started this conversation, and as a community we pretty much cocked it up. So what exactly would the steps to take be, to minimise reasonable upset to the user concerned, and not appear that everyone is ganging up on someone and/or conspiring behind their back? And I still think that this conflates relatively minor "offensive" material (suggesting speaking English in QC is somehow a crime) with the much more serious and wide-ranging bigotry espoused by two banned users; the former is free speech, albeit not supported by any evidence, some of the latter could have resulted in police action, or certainly it could in the UK. They're not even comparable. Regardless of whether it specifically says "we can remove offensive material from your userpage" or not, I do think we have always had the right to remove the sort of material the two banned users spouted, wherever it crops up in Wikivoyage. I also think that if a laundry list of grievances targeting another editor on someone's userpage were discovered, it could currently be removed per [[Wikivoyage:Keep Wikivoyage fun]], as that kind of behaviour falls foul of the first four bullets in the list under "Are you being a buzzkill?", as well, potentially, as [[Wikivoyage:No real world threats]]. This, if I'm right, really means that the only times this new policy would come into play was in less straightforward, more nuanced cases like the one we were dealing with yesterday. And this being the case, it is better to write as specific and precise a policy as we can.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 15:09, 15 May 2020 (UTC) :Let's start where this began. Donny's offensive comment wasn't suggesting that speaking English in Quebec is a crime, it was that you "could get shot". He removed it in 2015 after Andre complained, and then restored it in 2019. Clarifying that user pages are not an unrestricted free speech zone for bigots and wackos gives us the hook to hang out hats on in cases like these. I don't think we will have to use this except in rare cases, so I don't want to spend a whole lot of time developing a process or rules around this. I think it is covered by [[Wikivoyage:Consensus]]. In the event, Donny removed the offensive statement when asked. Other users might not be do quick to do so. :I'm okay with SelfieCity's wording. I find the "whats not unacceptable is acceptable" to be redundant and kind of confusing, but I can live with it. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 17:26, 15 May 2020 (UTC) :: Being precise is a virtue, but being specific and wordy, and missing the goal, is less so – and the more precise one tries to be, the more details have to be exactly right. I prefer the shorter original wording, with the addition I suggested, if we need a policy change. I also think discussing user page content is making drama. I'd prefer to be able to remove threats and obvious bigotry on sight, explaining on the talk page immediately afterwards. If it is not obvious, I'd ask the user to change the text. Only if the issue isn't resolved in this way, it should be brought to the community. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 20:04, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ===What to do if you find offensive comments on a user page=== LPfi's comment, following ThunderingTyphoons!'s question above, makes me think we should set out what to do if you find offensive comments on a user page. This guide doesn't provide direction in that regard. I don't think the answer is easy. *If it is something very offensive, then we would want you to delete it immediately from the other person's user page: :: potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, threats, or any other material that is clearly going to bring the project into disrepute, or which is clearly to give widespread offence *If it is something mildly offensive, then the best approach would be to ask the user to remove it from his/her user page and explain why. If s/he is unwilling, then you should post a note at [[WV:Requests for comment]] to solicit the views of other editors. If a consensus indicates that it is offensive and the user still refuses to remove it, then any editor could do so. :: Advertising, possibly harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, <s>threats,</s> or any other material that could to bring the project into disrepute, or which could give offence The problems will be found in between those two ends of the spectrum. User discretion is advised. Thoughts? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:47, 15 May 2020 (UTC) :I think in the case of a minor offense, the best solution is to first go to the user talk page and discuss if the user is active (Donny didn't like content being immediately changed on his userpage either; his talk page demonstrates that). :I agree with [[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]]. :Policy should be like a Constitution; people are always challenging it and trying to find ways around it, so it needs to be clear and take every precaution to avoid becoming obsolete. More later. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 22:23, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::Yes, address a minor offence on the talk page is exactly what I suggested above. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:32, 15 May 2020 (UTC) :::Sorry I misread. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 23:13, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::::"Threats" should be in one category or the other, I think, unless you're referring to threats on a different scale from each other. But we need to be careful that this doesn't go too far. I agree with [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]]'s post in the [[pub]] that the chances of someone finding such content is small. ::::Look at how long it took us to find the offensive content in LM's userspace. So while I think we should remove it when we find it, I don't see anything else we can do here. The chances of a user posting such content is unlikely, extremely unlikely, as quite a few of our regular users don't even have user pages, and those who have user pages don't include much more than a brief description and places traveled. Therefore, the whole scenario must be kept in perspective. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 23:19, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::::Good catch on threats. I've updated the text. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 23:39, 15 May 2020 (UTC) :::::One thing I wish to say though is that I don't think people should be policing how much personal information people want to reveal on their user page. Revealing another user's personal information is a big no-no, you should be free to reveal as much personal information you want about yourself. :::::And as for truths, I think there's a bit of a grey line. IMO, obvious jokes should be allowed as long as they're not offensive, but I agree that we should not allow things like racist or anti-Semitic content, or blatantly offensive stuff like pornography and what not. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 01:11, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::I agree with a ban on undue revelations of personal information, because how could you know it's really their personal information? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:45, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::OK, I see your point. But we should definitely give more leeway as to how much people want to post about themselves. Some people post photos of themselves on their user page, and I think they should be free to do so. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 05:04, 16 May 2020 (UTC) [undent]I'd be ok with that. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:40, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ===Proposal 2=== {{Ping|LPfi|ThunderingTyphoons!|SelfieCity|The dog2|Ikan Kekek}} Opinion seems to be split between my shorter version and SelfieCity's longer version. To try to get this moving, I've tried to commergeulate the two versions, and to add on the advice on what to do if you find had stuff on a user page. I think that should be on our [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]] page, with a link from here. Here is the new proposal: :''While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post want they want on their user pages, user pages should be limited to either Wikivoyage-related content or other, non-controversial personal information a user decides to share. (Users should consider the risks of sharing personal information before doing so.) A user page should not be used to post material that is likely to give widespread offence, or is likely to bring the project into disrepute. Wikivoyage is not a soapbox. Such comments will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis through [[Wikivoyage:Consensus|consensus]] established in the community.'' ::''Examples of acceptable material: places visited, biographies, user sandbox, travel articles not allowed in mainspace'' ::''Examples of unacceptable material: potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, threats, or any other material that is is likely to give widespread offence, or that is likely to bring the project into disrepute.'' To add to [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]], with a link from here: :'''''User pages''''' :''While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post want they want on their user pages, if you find something that violates [[Wikivoyage:User page help]]:'' :*''If it is something very offensive, then delete it immediately from the other person's user page. This includes:'' ::: ''Potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, threats, or any other material that is clearly to give widespread offence or clearly going to bring the project into disrepute,'' :*''If it is something mildly offensive, or if you have doubts about it, then ask the user to remove it from his/her user page and explain why. If s/he is unwilling, then you should post a note at [[WV:Requests for comment]] to solicit the views of other editors. If a consensus indicates that it is offensive and the user still refuses to remove it, then any editor could do so. This includes:'' ::: ''Advertising, possibly harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, or any other material that could give offence, or could to bring the project into disrepute.'' I struggled with the wording "Content that is not deemed unacceptable should always be considered acceptable" because that seems to override the underlying idea that user pages should be for Wikivoyage-related content and personal information. I think we can get across the idea of leniency/not policing this by adding "While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post want they want on their user pages". With respect to personal information, I have added "Users should consider the risks of sharing personal information before doing so." to alert users to risks -- it's not our job to protect them from themselves. I hope that this closer to an acceptable solution. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:04, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :Yes, though perhaps this could go on its own policy page. But for the time being, let's incorporate into our existing policy page that comes closest to the exact topic. I would remove "then we would want you to," which is unnecessary. Otherwise I think this is a good policy on this issue. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 19:12, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::I've removed "we would want to you to" and "the best approach". It reads better now. Thanks. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:28, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::I think it looks good, but should we also explicitly mention that it must comply with [[Wikivoyage: Don't tout]]? Sure, we should also allow people to provide links to their blog, YouTube channel or business as part of their profile, but Wikivoyage cannot be used to advertise them. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 19:39, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::: There are wordings I do not like. ::::* Why "''non-controversial'' personal information"? I understand we might want some restriction, but I think that is not ''the'' restriction we want (and grammar tweak: "or other" should be "and"). ::::* Here is also the disrepute statement. I think users should be allowed to state their point regarding conflicts on Wikivoyage, which may cause disrepute especially if the critique is well-founded – cf the other site. ::::* In the former passage community consensus is required also in the cases where it is not on the latter. This makes it obvious that we should handle these things in only one place; either say nothing about interpretation and sanctions in the latter or leave all user page specific policy to it. ::::* The second passage repeats the same problems, and adds rules (or clarifications?) not there. :::: --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:42, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::: Referencing Don't tout would be good. About disrepute: such content should be allowed when it concerns Wikivoyage (at least in most cases). Bringing disrepute by unrelated discussion can be forbidden, but stating one is homosexual, comunist, Christian or the like, which could cause disrepute or offence in some circles, should be allowed. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:45, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::::: ("Controversial personal information"? --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:47, 16 May 2020 (UTC)) :::::::Well, for obvious reasons, we can't be allowing people to post sexually explicit content on their user page. So that is an example of personal information we can't allow. And likewise, you can't be posting things like Nazi or white supremacist slogans. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 19:51, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::::Isn't "Don't tout" covered by "advertising" not being acceptable? ::::::::Isn't "controversial personal information" covered by "widespread offence"? ::::::::For that matter, maybe bringing Wikivoyage into "disrepute" is covered by "widespread offence", if what we mean is pornography, pedophilia, discriminatory statements.... There would be no point in using "disrepute" against a user page if the dispute is well covered in talk pages, so I don't think that concern is valid. But maybe we can drop "disrepute" altogether. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:56, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::::: Posting pornography should be covered (of course). That is not personal information. I talked about stating that one is homosexual, useful information when cooperating about LGBT content. It could be causing offence and disrepute, widespread in some circles, but that's their problem. Telling one's political views is a more delicate question. Usually there is a clear distinction between telling one's position and posting propaganda or offending slogans, but there is probably a grey zone. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 21:29, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::::: I don't think that the community would agree that someone posting that they are gay, or Christian, or conservative, or vegan would cause widespread offence. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:50, 16 May 2020 (UTC) {{outdent}}OK, I just didn't know if that was meant to be an addition or to replace the content already there. But anyway, I don't think everything needs to be discussed. For things that are very obviously offensive (eg. pornography, explicitly bigoted statements, threats, etc.), an admin should be able to just go in and delete the offending content. Discussion and consensus should be applied more to things that are not so obvious. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 21:06, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :Good. That is what the proposal is intended to do. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:50, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::I think it's fine. We can post it onto the page itself. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 02:17, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ===Proposal 3=== This is what it would look like with the changes I have suggested above: :''While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post what they want on their user pages, user pages should be limited to either Wikivoyage-related content or personal information that a user decides to share. (Users should consider the risks of sharing personal information before doing so.) A user page should not be used to post material that is likely to give widespread offence, as determined by the Wikivoyage community. Wikivoyage is not a soapbox. Such comments will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis through [[Wikivoyage:Consensus|consensus]] established in the community.'' ::''Examples of acceptable material: places visited, biographies, user sandbox, travel articles not allowed in mainspace'' ::''Examples of unacceptable material: potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, threats, or any other material that is likely to give widespread offence.'' To add to [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]], with a link from here: :'''''User pages''''' :''While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post want they want on their user pages, if you find something that violates [[Wikivoyage:User page help]]:'' :*''If it is something very offensive, then delete it immediately from the other person's user page. This includes:'' ::: ''Potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, threats, or any other material that is clearly to give widespread offence,'' :*''If it is something mildly offensive, or if you have doubts about it, then ask the user to remove it from his/her user page and explain why. If s/he is unwilling, then you should post a note at [[WV:Requests for comment]] to solicit the views of other editors. If a consensus indicates that it is offensive and the user still refuses to remove it, then any editor could do so. This includes:'' ::: ''Advertising, possibly harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, or any other material that could give offence.'' I would like to add in "personal attacks on other contributors" as a grounds for immediate deletion. Comments? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:55, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :: I saw a mention of advertising. That shouldn't be edited out of user pages. Instead, they should be deleted, with a touting warning put on that user's talk page, or if its obviously irrelevant spam, deleted with the user blocked indefinitely right away by an admin. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:58, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::Should this be deleted outright or after consultation? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:08, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::For very offensive stuff, we should probably just block the user outright. I can't imagine someone posting, say, the n-word, Nazi slogans or pornography on their user page being serious about wanting to contribute to a travel guide. People like that are at best just trolls. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 22:56, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::: Touting & especially user pages that consist solely of advertising should be removed. A user who has made non-touty contributions elsewhere should get the benefit of the doubt; ask him or her to remove it. If a touty user page is the only thing the user posts or if he/she ignores a talk page requests, then nuke it. :::: A link to the user's employer, blog or personal web site is fine unless it is part of touting text; if it is, then delete the touting & keep the link. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 23:03, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::: I delete user pages that are obvious ads right away. I should say, I think that other than in exceptional situations, we should maintain a hands-off policy on user pages, so I disagree with deleting only touting portions of a user page. I say, delete the page and give the user the opportunity to replace it with one that has no touting. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:07, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::So what do you say about blocking the user for things like threats and harassment on the user page? The last thing we want to do is waste out time with obvious trolls. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 23:30, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::I don't disagree with The dog2, but I think that's a different policy page, not [[Wikivoyage:User page help]]. Maybe we can sort out what to do with user pages first, and move on to the question of blocking users somewhere else. I think the approach would be the same whether it's on the user page, a talk page or elsewhere. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) [undent]Of course. Who would disagree with that? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 01:57, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :Is there any grounds for consensus here? I've tried three versions, but each seems to raise as many objections as the last. Should I just drop the idea, or is it worth continuing to work on this? I think it is worth clarifying this both for people who post on user pages, and those who find problems on them, even though it doesn't happen often. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 02:13, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :: I agree with most of the proposed text above, but having just indefinitely blocked a spambot and summarily deleted what in this case was a spam user talk page but just as easily could have been their user page, there's no way I could support language suggesting we should waste time discussing what to do with promotional user pages, and I don't know why you'd suggest not deleting those on sight. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:22, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :::See Pashley's point above. Where an otherwise constructive editor crosses a line and puts something mildly touty on their user page, do we delete on sight, or discuss the problem with them? Some people seem loath to invade the user page unless necessary. I would agree that if it's just touting by someone who has only come here to tout, we needn't waste time with them. I can adjust the wording to reflect that of this would move the proposal forward. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 02:40, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::::I think it's fine. We can post it onto the page itself. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 02:17, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :::::Yes, please adjust the wording, because I misunderstood the intention of that part, and ideally, the language should be clear on its own, without having to refer people to a specific post on this talk page. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:03, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :::::: I think an adjustment saying something along the line of "for touting and pages created to cause offence, see ..." would solve the issue. The advertising here would be, as said above, constructive editors being a little too enthusiastic about their day job, political stance or whatever. I'd also say: change "Such comments will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis ..." to "Comments in the grey zone will ...". --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:14, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::: (And GZ: Your frustration is understandable, but the thing is we did not have a clear enough understanding of what grey zones – or black ones – there are. Different wordings touched different issues. I think it is not about us having different views on the issues themselves. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:14, 17 May 2020 (UTC)) ::::::::I think it is important to keep the wording "case-by-case basis" which is easy to understand. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 11:15, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::::: No problem with that, just that not every instance has to be discussed. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:19, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::::::Oh yes, I see your point now. I agree that it needs to be clarified that they can be evaluated by the community, if necessary, but that many minor offenses can be resolved without a consensus due to existing policy. (Such as [[Wikivoyage:Don’t tout]], etc. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 11:37, 17 May 2020 (UTC) {{outdent}} Proposal 3 is much improved in my opinion. But I still have some questions and doubts, and while I sympathise that this may cause frustration, I can only apologise and voice them anyway. * The wording of your first italics bit is good. I'm absolutely fine with providing guidance to users on what should and shouldn't go in their user pages. I do think, however, that "(Users should consider the risks of sharing personal information before doing so.)" is kind of redundant and obvious; "...personal information that a user decides to share." is sufficient to get the point across, but if others disagree perhaps it could be revised to "...personal information that a user '''feels comfortable sharing'''." The second lot of italics are slightly less straightforward for me. * One reason for this is I'm not sure whom it addresses. Are we giving any user the right to edit any other user's page if they see something that they think is offensive? If so, what are they supposed to do when the user reverts them? Do they edit war in support of the policy, do they contact an administrator, do they do an Rfc? Or do we limit direct interference to administrators, who would at least have the power to stop an edit war in its tracks? * There's still a problem with defining "offence", as it's subjective. One person's joke is another person's insult. * One way to address both of these issues might be to say that any removal of content called "offensive" that is reverted (so one user thinks it's offensive and the other - possibly the author - disagrees) automatically goes to Rfc to solicit the community's opinion without any further edits or discussion among the two involved users. In theory at least, if something is obviously offensive, the bulk of the community will agree and swiftly reach a consensus. *'''But''' I also still kind of think that anything not serious enough to warrant immediate deletion and sanctions against the offending user is also not serious enough for the wider community to spend valuable time discussing. Things which "might cause offence", or that are "possibly harmful /damaging" could easily as well just be left alone, as there could be more damage inflicted to the community by debating it than not (for instance, if the discussion gets heated because a substantial number of people are on both sides; or if it drags on for days on end and detracts from building a travel guide). A possible rule of thumb might be (1) if ''you'' are personally upset by something, you should edit it out if serious enough or discuss with the person on their talk page if not, but (2) if you just think that "hmm, someone (but not me) may be offended if they see this", you should think long and hard before taking any action beyond a quiet suggestion to the author on their talk page. Any other thoughts? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 12:56, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :Agreed. :People can't just decide that because someone's user page content is "offensive" in their subjective opinion, and that it should therefore be removed without any discussion whatsoever with the person who originally posted the material. People will take advantage of a guideline of that nature. :On the other hand, we all know that there have been users, throughout the history of the website, who've posted content that truly ''should'' be removed from the website (in userspace or elsewhere), and it's impossible to build a consensus quickly enough to revert their edits. The problem is finding the balance between removing all content that could remotely be considered offensive, and leaving all content on the website even if it is offensive. The best balance between these two, in my opinion, is to take the same good-faith approach to userspace editing that we should take to edits in mainspace (not that we do, unfortunately, and I'll admit I'm guilty of making unfair judgments of others' contributions myself). We should assume that a potentially offensive comment (vague terminology, which &mdash; perhaps &mdash; should be clarified in this policy) was made in good faith unless evidence is clearly to the contrary. :We have to remember that not everyone takes policy and applies it the way it should be applied. Even an administrator with a personal dislike of another user or issue might use this policy as an opportunity to penalize that person unfairly. Such a scenario is unlikely, but possible, so I think we must take it into account if we decide to make the above proposal actual policy. :Perhaps the proposal would be better as a guideline similar to [[Wikivoyage:Deny recognition]]? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 13:16, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::I think the easiest way to get around this potential issue to to explicitly define what content warrants immediate deletion from the User Page. As I previously mentioned, I think most of us can agree that things like sexually explicit content, threats and racial slurs should warrant immediate deletion. I understand that people have different standards as to what constitutes "bigotry", so it has to be for things that are clear cut, like if someone uses the n-word, the k-word or things along those lines. And of course, we should include blatantly offensive stuff like Nazi or white supremacist slogans. That said, some leeway should be given. For instance, I'm a scientist and don't agree with this position, but a Biblical literalist editor should be free to declare on their user page that they don't believe in evolution. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 21:00, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :::The issue is always going to be one of degree. There won't be a clear dividing line that will be the same for everyone. The extreme cases of explicitly racist text are easy. Then it gets trickier. If someone has something deleted from their user page, they can appeal to the community, and there will be a discussion. If some sees something that is somewhat racist, I don't think leaving it alone is a good solution: if the user who posted it won't take it down, getting community input is the only solution. I don't see any way around this. :::Do we want to put deletions from user pages in the hands of administrators to incorporate a level of control/accountability on the process? "If you see something offensive, post a message in the pub and let me admin handle it." Then it will be up to admins to decide between automatic deletion and consulting others, and face the consequence of losing admin rights of they abuse the power. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:17, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::::I think that could work too. But we should define some guidelines as to what warrants immediate deletion without consultation. After all, different admins will also find different things offensive. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 22:06, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ===Proposal 4=== Let's try this: :''While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post what they want on their user pages, user pages should be limited to either Wikivoyage-related content or personal information that a user decides to share. Wikivoyage is not a soapbox. Such comments will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis through [[Wikivoyage:Consensus|consensus]] established by the community.'' ::''Examples of acceptable material: places visited, <u>auto</u>biographies, user sandbox, travel articles not allowed in mainspace'' ::''Examples of unacceptable material: potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, advertising, threats, personal attacks on other contributors, or any other material that is likely to give widespread offence, as determined by the Wikivoyage community.'' To add to [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]], with a link from here: :'''''User pages''''' :''While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post what they want on their user pages, if you find something that violates [[Wikivoyage:User page help]], you can ask the user to remove it by posting a message on their talk page, or let the administrators know by posting a notice at [[WV:Requests for comment]] with a link to the user page, indicating what part of it is offensive.'' :''If it is something is clearly unacceptable, then an administrator will delete it immediately from the user page.'' :''If it is something where there is doubt about it being unacceptable, the administrator should exercise their discretion. They may ask the user to remove it from their user page and explain why. If the user is unwilling, then the administrator should post a note at [[WV:Requests for comment]] to solicit the views of other editors. If other editors agree that it is offensive and the user still refuses to remove it, then any administrator could do so. '' :''Where any unacceptable material has been posted on a user page by someone whose activity on Wikivoyage has been limited to posting such material, an administrator may delete the unacceptable material from the user page.'' :''Removing content from a user page is a serious matter that could drive contributors away from Wikivoyage. Administrators should exercise caution, and seek to resolve problems through discussion with the user if possible.'' :''Users who believe that the content was removed inappropriately, may appeal to other editors for reconsideration by posting a note at [[WV:Requests for comment]].'' With regard to suggestions about having clear guidelines for what falls into each category, I'd love to see proposals for that. I think we could discuss those for weeks without getting to a resolution. I think that we have to trust administrators, and I have added some wording to let admins know that they should not delete precipitously. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:49, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :For the first part, I think what constitutes unacceptable content should be established by the entire community, not just the admins. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 23:05, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::I agree. And in the second part – RFC is for soliciting the views of the entire community, not just administrators. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 00:26, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::There doesn't seem to be a meeting room for admins.... But it seems that you want admins to delete when it's clear, but if there's doubt, to consult the broader community. Is that correct? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 00:34, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::Yes, I think that's reasonable. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 00:41, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::Yes, more or less (delete in extreme/obvious cases, bring it up on the user talk page otherwise, consult the broader community as a backup). My point is that in the phrase "may appeal to other administrators by posting a note at [[WV:Requests for comment]]", I would replace "administrators" with "editors" (in addition to the change The dog2 suggested for the first part). —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 00:51, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::I have made edits to the above text to reflect these changes. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:23, 18 May 2020 (UTC) {{outdent}}I think it looks good now. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 01:29, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :I'm a bit confused about this sentence: "Where any material has been posted on a user page by someone whose activity on Wikivoyage has been limited to posting such material, an administrator may delete any or all of the user's talk page." Is there a mistake in this sentence? If not, I don't understand the rationale for it. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 01:38, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::This is to address [[user:Ikan Kekek]]'s comment above "there's no way I could support language suggesting we should waste time discussing what to do with promotional user pages, and I don't know why you'd suggest not deleting those on sight." If someone comes to Wikivoyage just to post ads for their furniture shop, and puts the same info on their user page, we don't need to discuss it. Just delete. If an otherwise constructive editor posts info about their furniture shop on their user page, we discuss it with them. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:45, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::Then I would suggest rephrasing it "If a user's only activity on Wikivoyage is to post advertising, an administrator may delete that advertising from their user page and user talk page." Would that work? The other phrasing is confusing and suggests, at least to me, an unfriendly welcome for a user who created a user page to introduce themselves before starting to edit articles. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 01:54, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::I wouldn't want to limit it to advertising. If they come here and only make mildly racist, sexist, anti-Semitic or homophobic comments on talk pages, and on their user page, I'm okay with immediate deletion. I'm okay with being unfriendly to someone who's not being constructive in the first place. I've posted so many friendly and helpful messages to editors who've posted inappropriate stuff, and then we never hear from them again. Let's save our energy for constructive editors. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 02:02, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::I'll point out though that besides obvious slurs, sometimes things like this may just come down to misunderstandings. For instance the Spanish word for the colour "black" is "negro", (eg. el gato negro; the black cat), so it is certainly possible for a native Spanish speaker to not know that the word is a racial slur in American English. Likewise, the Italian word for "bassoon" is "fagotto", and the German word, which was derived from the Italian word is "Fagot". Mistranslations are certainly possible for someone whose English level is more rudimentary, so we should certainly be forgiving in such situations. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 02:20, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::Agreed. I'm ok with this proposed language. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:32, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::Then how about this: "Where any material has been posted on a user page by someone whose activity on Wikivoyage has been limited to posting unacceptable material, an administrator may delete any or all of the user page."? (To be honest I think even that is a little harsh, for the reason The dog2 said, but I can live with it.) If a user creates a harmless user page (like "My name is A and I love travel!") before editing any articles, I don't want an administrator to delete their user page or user talk page on that basis. The current proposal makes it sound like a harmless user page or user talk page can be deleted on the basis that the user hasn't made any other contributions to Wikivoyage. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 02:56, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::: Ah, I see your concern now. There was an "unacceptable" missing. I have added it in above. I don't think we mean to delete "I love travel", but rather "I love Al's Furniture in Omaha" or "I don't trust Dutch people". (Of course, ''I'' trust the Dutch. This is a reference to [https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/379482-there-s-only-two-things-i-hate-in-this-world-people Michael Caine].) [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 03:05, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::::Thank you, that resolves my main concern. The remaining issue is that the sentence first refers to "a user page" and then to "the user's talk page". If read literally, this means that unacceptable content on the user page justifies deletion of the user talk page, which is surely not the intention. Maybe something like "Where any unacceptable material has been posted on a user page by someone whose activity on Wikivoyage has been limited to posting such material, an administrator may delete any or all of the user<s>'s talk</s> page." Or, if we want to be harsher, "Where any unacceptable material has been posted on a user <u>or user talk</u> page by someone whose activity on Wikivoyage has been limited to posting such material, an administrator may delete any or all of the <s>user's talk page</s> <u>material</u>." —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 03:19, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::::::Also a good point. I think we can limit the deletion to unacceptable material, and have made that change above. Anything else? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:39, 18 May 2020 (UTC) {{outdent}} I made a couple of other minor corrections. Looks good to me now. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 11:50, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :Thanks. I've removed the mark-up and will leave it for a couple of days before posting. I believe that there is consensus now. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:10, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::I don't see user talk pages mentioned in proposal 4. Can content be deleted from them as well? The existing policy as I understand it is that we shouldn't edit others' comments. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 13:03, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::Added, for clarity, with mark-up. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:09, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::Okay, but I'm not sure policy should be applied to user talk pages and user pages in the same way. I would recommend applying the policy only to user pages first, and then discussing the addition of user talk pages, as this complicates the discussion beyond its original goal. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 13:50, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::I agree on that front because, functionally, there's not much difference between a user talk page and any other type of talk page. Even if the guidelines for talk pages are similar, the potential differences, which we haven't properly considered, complicate this proposal. [[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 13:59, 18 May 2020 (UTC) {{outdent}} (Outdent, by all means carry on the talk page discussion above) - Other than a stray "RfC from administrators", rather than wider community, I am finally happy with the wording. Thanks to Ground Zero for listening to everyone and putting in the majority of the legwork here. [[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 14:05, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :That's what I get paid the big bucks for. Not that I get paid for this.... :I don't understand the concern about removing unacceptable content from use talk pages. If a comment is offensive on a user page, it's offensive on a talk page? If we won't accept advertising on a user page, why would we accept it on a user talk page? Leaving our user talk pages leaves a great big loophole to exploit. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:20, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::I don't think anyone's suggesting leaving them, just addressing them separately. The reason that I see for this, is that any policy or guideline about user talk pages may as well apply to other talk pages, the Pub etc. --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 15:07, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::[[Wikivoyage:Using_talk_pages]] says, at the very bottom of the page, ::::"Off-topic rants on talk pages will usually be deleted." :: Personally, I would use this to delete what we are calling "unacceptable material" here. I think that our wording provides clearer direction, and would be useful for dealing with talk pages, but for the sake of moving this forward, I'll remove user talk pages from the above. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:57, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::I guess that means we have consensus to include proposal four into policy? Though it wouldn't do any harm to wait for a few days in case anyone else has a comment to make. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 17:31, 18 May 2020 (UTC) What about the "decides to share" → "feels comfortable to share"? I think it is good to remind users about the problems of sharing too much, and it does not change anything material concerning the issue we are trying to solve. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:57, 18 May 2020 (UTC) And: was it agreed that non-admins shouldn't be encouraged to give a note on the talk page (or remove obviously offensive material)? I think bringing something up on RfC feels too strong for something minor, or e.g. the "fagot" mentioned above, where a friendly note on the talk page should be enough. Normally only things that require admin tools are left to admins. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 18:03, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::I've added some wording to give the non-admin discretion to decide. If it's something really bad, it's probably best to contact an admin for immediate removal. If it's questionable, the non-admin might handle it themselves, but if we spell out rules for every eventuality, this will be too long for anyone to read, so I've left it at their discretion. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:04, 19 May 2020 (UTC) :I am happy with the proposal. One small point is in the "Examples of acceptable material" it would be better to say autobiographies than biographies. I don't think we want biographies of other people. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 20:12, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::That's a very good point. Quite a few users have put biographies of some Bollywood or pop star on their user page (usually plagiarized). [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:20, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::Done. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:04, 19 May 2020 (UTC) :::If you ask me, I think deletion of the unacceptable material should be restricted to admins, but any user should be free to bring it up on the user talk page for discussion. There are many new users who will be understanding and remove the material if you are reasonable and ask nicely, and there's not always a need to get an admin involved. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 21:13, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::That is what the proposal says, so we're good. I'll leave this for comment by others who may not have seen it yet for a few more days, then post it. Thanks everyone. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:56, 21 May 2020 (UTC) :{{done}} [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:11, 29 May 2020 (UTC) == Motel Accommodation in Owen Sound, ON == [https://owensoundinn.ca/ Owen Sound Inn] offers reliable motel and hotel accommodations in Ontario. Enjoy easy online reservations for your stay. [[User:Martin4073|Martin4073]] ([[User talk:Martin4073|talk]]) 17:38, 10 July 2025 (UTC) jvqrwll85oasnc7lwzordb8bljbg8dl 5090983 5090980 2025-07-10T17:44:33Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/Martin4073|Martin4073]] ([[User talk:Martin4073|talk]]) to last version by [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] 5079225 wikitext text/x-wiki {{infobox|Archived discussions|* [[Wikivoyage talk:User page help/Archive 2004-2013]] }} == Something to worry about? == I noticed an [[Special:Contributions/124.253.76.62|IP editing someone's user page more than once]] and first suspected it to be somebody vandalizing somebody else's user page. After looking at the: * [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=User:Rajvir_Singh&action=history history of said user page], * [[Special:Contributions/Rajvir_Singh|the contributions]] of the user the page belongs to, * plus the two [[User talk:Rajvir Singh|reprimands on his talk page]] ...I'm afraid all of his edits (both as IP and as a user) could be classified as promotion, something discouraged per [[Wikivoyage:User page help]]. However it is his own user page, not articles... Should we do something? [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:44, 10 March 2014 (UTC) :The entire page is arguably spam and certainly questionable, but we absolutely should not allow an IP to edit someone's user page without a clear explanation, so I have reverted IP edits to that user page. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 18:04, 10 March 2014 (UTC) ::Thanks! I had no idea what to do or say to the IP or to the user... :P [[User:Ypsilon|ϒpsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:31, 10 March 2014 (UTC) ::: I think in general we want to be fairly lenient with user pages and err on the side of being too permissive rather than judiciously policing user pages, but if someone has already been warned about self-promotion and continues then further scrutiny is probably warranted. Wikipedia has [[w:Wikipedia:User page#What may I not have in my user pages?|numerous examples]] about what they view as acceptable (note that they preface that with "''The Wikipedia community is generally tolerant and offers fairly wide latitude in applying these guidelines to regular participants''"), and it might be useful to follow that example and make our guidelines more explicit than what is currently stated in the second paragraph of [[Wikivoyage:User page help#Brief introduction]]. -- [[User:Wrh2|Ryan]] &bull; ([[User talk:Wrh2|talk]]) &bull; 18:38, 10 March 2014 (UTC) ::::I doubt anyone affected by this is likely to read the guidelines anyway. If we are to be circumspect in the number of new rules we add, I think this would have to be a very low priority. [[User:LtPowers|Powers]] <small>^{([[User talk:LtPowers|talk]])}</small> 19:48, 10 March 2014 (UTC) :::::I think [[User:LtPowers|Powers]] is right on this one. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:28, 11 March 2014 (UTC) :::::: I agree that problem users are unlikely to read or follow advice on our policy pages, so any clarification would be directed to people who patrol such things. At present our advice on the subject could be clearer, as evidenced by the question that started this thread. -- [[User:Wrh2|Ryan]] &bull; ([[User talk:Wrh2|talk]]) &bull; 06:23, 11 March 2014 (UTC) :::::::We need to separate out two questions: (1) Is [[tout]]ing tolerated on user pages? Answer: No. Users can say who they are and what they do, but if they are clearly touting, their user pages need to be deleted for that reason, with an explanation in their user talk pages. (2) Are IP users or any other users allowed to edit other users' user pages, except to enforce policies that are clearly being violated? Answer: No. No-one but the user him-/herself should edit his/her user page, except when it is in violation of policies that need to be enforced. If the user forgot to log in, s/he should explain that, and then the edits to the user page should be permitted - again, unless they violated some important policy. That's my take on this discussion. Any disagreements with it? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:38, 11 March 2014 (UTC) ::::::::Yes; I believe users should be able to fix broken links on other users' pages (example: user links to a page called "Foo"; page is moved to "Foo, Bar" and "Foo" becomes a disambiguation page; we should be allowed to fix that link from "Foo" to "Foo, Bar"). Other than that, I agree. [[User:LtPowers|Powers]] <small>^{([[User talk:LtPowers|talk]])}</small> 20:59, 11 March 2014 (UTC) :::::::::I take your point, Powers. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:26, 11 March 2014 (UTC) == My own itinerary == My wife and I are planning a world trip, and I wonder whether it would be appropriate to put the itinerary on my user page? If it were a little thing, I would just do it without bothering to ask, but we're thinking of a trip lasting many years, so I wonder if that is an appropriate use of the space. (Of course it is all text, no images, and I would link everything to Wikivoyage pages. It might even be helpful to someone other than my wife and me as a source of ideas.) Thanks for your help! [[User:Wyote|Wyote]] ([[User talk:Wyote|talk]]) 06:26, 7 May 2015 (UTC) :You certainly can put that on your user page. If you have specific questions about any part of your itinerary, you could also post questions at [[Wikivoyage:Tourist Office]]. Happy trails! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:27, 7 May 2015 (UTC) == The boundary between non-interference with userspace and the accuracy of our content == {{Swept}} Have a look at [[User:DAZ14LPA#No-Go's]], which states that "I heard that if you speak English [in Quebec], you get dirty looks, unintentionally start a fight, or could get shot". Needless to say, this is patently and, I would say, offensively untrue. There are over a million Québécois who speak English natively, to say nothing of the millions more tourists who visit uneventfully each year from English-speaking regions of Canada, the U.S., and elsewhere in the Anglosphere, not to mention that gun violence (of any kind, let alone for reasons as innocuous as speaking the "wrong" language) is extremely rare in Canada. I realize that the Wiki custom is to allow editors a little bit more leeway when it comes to their own userspace, and I also realize that some random editor's user page is going to see far less traffic than our actual [[Quebec]] destination article. However, we must also consider Wikivoyage's responsibility to ensure that the information we provide to our readers is as accurate as possible, and I think the chance, however unlikely, of someone reading that and being misled as to the safety of travelling in Quebec handily outweighs whatever value it may bring to this editor's userspace. My initial inclination was to simply delete the passage, but on second thought, I figured it might be better to bring up the issue here. -- [[User:AndreCarrotflower|AndreCarrotflower]] ([[User talk:AndreCarrotflower|talk]]) 07:53, 13 May 2020 (UTC) : I am not that worried about people getting wrong information from user pages, but this indeed seems it might need curating. As the user seems to be serious, I think one should point to this discussion on the user talk, tell the user he or she has got the wrong impression and ask them to reword such passages. Blatant passages can be removed and the removal explained afterwards, but I suppose that is not needed here. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:21, 13 May 2020 (UTC) : I'd leave it. I think most readers will recognise from context &mdash; he or she craps on a long list of places, IMHO mostly for silly reasons &mdash; that he or she is just acting dumb & repeating hearsay. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 08:28, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::Either of Pashley's or LPfi's approach are better than charging in and changing it yourself. I personally wouldn't even bother bringing it up as it's obvious to anyone reading that it's someone's ill-informed opinion. On balance, Babel boxes which claim a level of English higher than a user is obviously capable of are more damaging, but I still wouldn't tell a user to "downgrade" themselves from e.g. en-4 to en-2. But if you feel you must tackle this person on Quebec, then leave them a message, explain your reasons etc. But if they refuse to change it, that's their prerogative. You should then drop the issue; it's not worth a fight.[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 09:31, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::I agree with [[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]]. It's best to leave userspace alone, and if people read misinformation outside of our "official" website content, it is their duty to recognize it and ignore it. After all, how would someone even find this user's content without specifically searching for his/her userspace, let alone assume said misinformation is more accurate than our mainspace article specifically dedicated to [[Quebec]]? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 14:52, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::::Though I've been unable to figure out where it was swept to, I remember a discussion in the [[pub]] about the trend in web traffic to Wikivoyage vis-à-vis COVID in which it was noted that the user page of long-inactive editor [[User:Nicholasjf21]] had become one of the most-visited pages on the site for some reason. I'm not sure what that signifies, but I think it serves to complicate any arguments based on the obscurity of this user's userspace. -- [[User:AndreCarrotflower|AndreCarrotflower]] ([[User talk:AndreCarrotflower|talk]]) 16:13, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::::I thought we (being those who participated in that discussion) generally agreed that was due to an error in how page views were counted. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 16:20, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::You may well be right; I don't remember how that discussion resolved. At any rate, while I continue to think the idea of an editor trash-talking specific destinations is in poor taste and unbecoming a travel site (and doing so based on untrue information worse still), I don't see any point in forcing the issue. -- [[User:AndreCarrotflower|AndreCarrotflower]] ([[User talk:AndreCarrotflower|talk]]) 16:24, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::[https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Wikivoyage:Travellers%27_pub&oldid=3959836#wikivoyage_monthly_statistics Here is the discussion]. I think it was right to inform the user, as you have done, but at that point s/he ought to make the right decision on his/her own. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 16:30, 13 May 2020 (UTC) Note: actually I think I have the wrong discussion. ::::::::A couple of discussions about this user's User Page:[[User_talk:DAZ14LPA#Montreal]], [[User_talk:Traveler100bot#Do_not_touch_my_page]]. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:15, 13 May 2020 (UTC) I'm not pro-censorship, but I'm also opposed to Wikivoyage user pages being used to make false and offensive statements. They really shouldn't be used for anything beyond Wikivoyage business and whatever biographical information the user wants to share, but we really only need be concerned where the user crosses a line like this one. Wikipedia has a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:User_pages#What_may_I_not_have_in_my_user_pages? useful and reasonable policy] on this that I think we should adopt. I will paraphrase some key points to illustrate what I mean: * Wikivoyage is not a general hosting service, so your user page is not a personal website. Your user page is about you as a Wikivoyager. *A user page should not be used to post material that is likely to bring the project into disrepute, or which is likely to give widespread offence (e.g., pro-pedophilia advocacy). Wikivoyage is not a soapbox. We have had an issue with one contributor who, after a long spell of contributing useful travel information, began editing articles to promote anti-Semitic and racist views. That person was banned from the site, appropriately. I don't think that we can trust in the judgement of all of our contributors. In this case, the editor was notified five years ago that the statement about Quebec are blatantly false, and yet s/he has left the statement in place. I suggest notifying the user that the statement is false and offensive and that it must be removed. If so/he fails to do so, it will be removed by an admin. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 17:52, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :I'm not sure whether this is the contributor you're talking about, Ground Zero, but we still have a set of politically charged userpages about a [[User:Libertarianmoderate/Alex_Nation|made-up country]] from a user who is now banned. As long as we're talking about how to handle controversial userspace content, should we delete these? Given the userban for related issues and how extensive and irrelevant the pages are, I lean towards deleting them. I'm not sure how best to handle the Quebec issue. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 18:15, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::These have been deleted. Wikivoyage is not free web-hosting for personal stuff. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:10, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::No, I was referring to [[User:ArticCynda]], who I think is a different person. But yes, why would we host these pages? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 18:30, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::It took me a moment to find it. We have our own policy on user pages, [[Wikivoyage:User page help]], which says, in part, :::"Remember that Wikivoyage is not a personal home page service or a vacation photo service. Overloaded User pages are considered a form of abuse. In addition, while it is OK to associate yourself with your company if you work for or run a business, user pages should not be used for advertising." ::On that basis, we can delete made-up country pages. I think we should expand the "should not be used for advertising" to include "false statements, and statements that denigrate another user or identifiable group". [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 18:38, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::No, we shouldn't. Who decides what constitutes a "false statement"? It's not your intention, as stated, but that sounds like the excuse authoritarian regimes give for censorship of free speech to me. I fail to see any justification for intervening over a mild bit of userpage moaning, especially when links are being drawn with two users who systematically inserted hate-speech across Wikivoyage. These are two completely different things. Anyone who denigrates another user or who actually engages in hate speech, advocacy of paedophilia etc can already be sanctioned by existing policy.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 18:59, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::: Btw, I support deleting the Libmod made up countries, which again are completely different to the situation which triggered this discussion. [[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 19:04, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :Going behind my back to discuss a joke I made on my userpage without consulting is not okay. I will delete the passage, as is implied and close my account. [[User:DAZ14LPA|Donny]] ([[User talk:DAZ14LPA|talk]]) 19:06, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::No one has been shot in Quebec for speaking English. You can google it. Free speech does not give anyone the right to spread false news. And Wikivoyage should not be a platform for false statements. It doesn't seem like anyone understands that it is a joke, so we won't treat it as one. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:10, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::I know that no one has been shot in Quebec for not speaking French, it was only a minor jab at the independence movement, but I have deleted the passage and will not edit anymore; it seems that is what you want. [[User:DAZ14LPA|Donny]] ([[User talk:DAZ14LPA|talk]]) 19:14, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::{{Ping|ThunderingTyphoons!}} While existing policy allows us to sanctions users for such statements, under what policy can we delete them from user pages? If there is a policy, I'll be happy. This is really about clarifying that a Wikivoyage user page is not the property of the user. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:12, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::::{{ping|Ground Zero}}[[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]], [[Wikivoyage:Keep Wikivoyage fun]], [[Wikivoyage:Child protection policy]], through [[Wikivoyage: Administrators|Revision deletion]].[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 19:21, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::::Those don't specifically mention user talk pages, and they don't address the comment in question in this discussion, so I think it would be helpful to clarify at [[Wikivoyage:User page help]] that user pages are not a place for false statements about a person, group or place. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:26, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::They don't need to mention user pages, because any hate speech/paedophilia content is removed and usually rev del'd wherever it shows up in Wikivoyage, per those policies. But again, who defines a "false statement"? The truth police? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 19:37, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::::It would be the Wikivoyage Community, by a warm and friendly consensus, like everything else we do here. Not very truth police-y at all. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:52, 13 May 2020 (UTC) Should I post [[User:Libertarianmoderate/Alex Nation]] and his other fictional destination userspace pages at [[vfd]]? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 13:39, 14 May 2020 (UTC) ===Resolved=== The immediate issue has been resolved. {{Ping|DAZ14LPA}} has removed the comment from his user page. Thank you, Donny, for doing so, and for being reasonable about this. I'll bring up the broader issue at [[Wikivoyage:User page help]] at some point. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:15, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :Thank you for going behind my back to bring it up. Please, next time there is an issue, bring it up on my talk page instead.[[User:DAZ14LPA|Donny]] ([[User talk:DAZ14LPA|talk]]) 19:20, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::Please see my response to your comment at [[User talk:AndreCarrotflower]]. Thanks, [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:26, 13 May 2020 (UTC) :::I'm glad this has been resolved, but yes, in the future I think it's best to bring these things up on the relevant user talk page before starting a discussion in the pub. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 19:42, 13 May 2020 (UTC) ::::[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]], please see the related discussion at [[User talk:AndreCarrotflower#Why didn't you just talk to me?]], specifically my comment timestamped 23:29, 13 May 2020. Taking the issue to the pub was not a first resort. -- [[User:AndreCarrotflower|AndreCarrotflower]] ([[User talk:AndreCarrotflower|talk]]) 14:39, 14 May 2020 (UTC) :::::As I understand it, the "first resort" was a comment five years ago in which you didn't specifically ask the user to remove the material. When you discovered the material had reappeared this year, it would have been more diplomatic to first leave a message on the user talk page asking the user to remove it, and only come to the pub if that was unsuccessful. The rest of us (including me) could also be more thoughtful about how to comment, remembering that, as [[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] said, we're talking about a real person. With a big community-wide discussion after the issue hadn't come up for years, I think it's easy to see how this could feel like a sudden and unpleasant pile-on. Not trying to blame anyone, just offering a suggestion for the future. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 17:08, 14 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::On the face of it, I agree with you. And I'm generally of the opinion that we should normally avoid editing user pages except in cases of spam and vandalism and other extreme cases. Remarks that are merely untrue and perhaps stupid could be discussed on the user's talk page and nominated for deletion if no satisfactory solution is arrived at, but let's face it, this isn't a high-traffic wiki like Wikipedia, so a few dumb words in a dark corner are unlikely to have severe ill effects on the site. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 13:00, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ===Proposal about offensive material on user pages=== I've made a proposal to provide additional guidance on user pages about not using them to post offensive material [[Wikivoyage talk:User page help|here]]. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:38, 15 May 2020 (UTC) == Additional guidance on user pages == We have had occasional problems with users who are looking for a platform for diatribes against certain groups, including users who espouse racist or anti-Semitic views. While it is straightforward to handle this issue in articles, some users still seem to think that user pages "belong" to the user. We do try to disavow users of that notion with this advice: :"Remember that Wikivoyage is not a personal home page service or a vacation photo service. Overloaded User pages are considered a form of abuse. In addition, while it is OK to associate yourself with your company if you work for or run a business, user pages should not be used for advertising." But that advice seems to limit the guidance to photos and advertising. I'd like to make it clear that a Wikivoyage user page isn't a place for spouting off offensive views by adding this text adapted from Wikipedia, which has dealt with this issue in the past: :"A user page should not be used to post material that is likely to bring the project into disrepute, or which is likely to give widespread offence. Wikivoyage is not a soapbox." It would be up to the community to decide whether something is disreputable or offensive. Let's hope that this warning is enough to disarm the "free speech" argument. (They can say whatever they want elsewhere, but this is a travel guide, not a personal web page.) There are lots of other dark, scary places on the Internet where racists and anti-Semites can say whatever they want and will be applauded by like-minded cretins (not that I'm judging anyone). They don't have to use a travel guide for this purpose. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:30, 15 May 2020 (UTC) : The problem is keeping the guideline strict enough. E.g. "bringing the project into disrepute" could be used to censor justified criticism. I do not think there is such a risk at the moment, but rules should be made to work also under pressure. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:54, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::Would we actually use it that way though? If we can't trust the judgement of the Wikivoyage Community, then we have have nothing. I think this is preferable to trying to come up with a list of "prohibited topics", which in itself would be contentious. This is the wording used by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:User_pages#What_may_I_not_have_in_my_user_pages? Wikipedia], which has a longer history and a bigger group of people thinking about this. Here are details from that policy for clarification, although I don't know if we want to import the level of detail: :::"Polemical statements unrelated to Wikipedia, or statements attacking or vilifying groups of editors, persons, or other entities (these are generally considered divisive and removed, and reintroducing them is often considered disruptive). :::"Material that can be viewed as attacking other editors, including the recording of perceived flaws. The compilation of factual evidence (diffs) in user subpages, for purposes such as preparing for a dispute resolution process, is permitted provided it will be used in a timely manner. :::"Users should generally not maintain in public view negative information related to others without very good reason. Negative evidence, laundry lists of wrongs, collations of diffs and criticisms related to problems, etc., should be removed, blanked, or kept privately (i.e., not on the wiki) if they will not be imminently used, and the same once no longer needed." ::[[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:02, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::: I don't think we actually would use it in that way, but I can imagine a user justifying removal of such content with the wording (possibly in relation to a personal conflict about how some issue should be handled), causing unnecessary drama. An "unrelated to Wikivoyage" could help (but "causing widespread offence" should not be tolerated even if related to Wikivoyage). There may be other issues along the same lines. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:18, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::::We could clarify that individual users should not be making this determination: :::::"A user page should not be used to post material that is, in the opinion of the Wikivoyage community, likely to bring the project into disrepute, or which is likely to give widespread offence. Wikivoyage is not a soapbox." ::::Is there anything that people would post related to Wikivoyage that would bring the project into disrepute? If there is an issue that has been decided by the community, and someone wants to keep banging on about it on their user page, is it needed? The records of the community debate would already exist on policy talk pages, so it's not like we'd be trying to bury the issue. (All of the discussion about ArticCynda is still available.) But should a user page be a platform for ongoing campaigning on an issue? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:34, 15 May 2020 (UTC) :::::Possible alternative: ::::::User pages should be limited to either wiki-related content or other, non-controversial information a user decides to share. Violations of this policy should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis through [[Wikivoyage:Consensus|consensus]] established in the community. Content that is not deemed unacceptable should always be considered acceptable. :::::I think it's important to clarify that content should by default be deemed acceptable along the lines of "innocent until proven guilty." This would hopefully encourage free speech as long as it does not violate the guidelines. :::::We could additionally offer examples to make the distinction clear: ::::::Examples of acceptable material: places visited, biographies (assuming they do not reveal personal information), user sandbox, travel articles not allowed in mainspace ::::::Examples of unacceptable material: potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, threats, or any other material that is likely to bring the project into disrepute, or which is likely to give widespread offence :::::<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 13:27, 15 May 2020 (UTC) {{outdent}}If we have to have a policy like this, then (a) I'm very glad that no-one is mentioning removing things which are "untrue" anymore, and (b) I mostly prefer the wording suggested by Selfie City to be combined with the "clarifications" offered by Ground Zero about negative information about other editors, mainly because it's more specific and therefore less likely to be abused in the future. I don't believe the current crop of admins and crats would abuse the notion of "offence", but we're not just writing policy for now; it needs to be future-proofed. I especially like "Content that is not deemed unacceptable should always be considered acceptable". This with the exception that it is perfectly okay to reveal as much or as little personal information about yourself as you like. Most of us opt to keep things more private, but there aren't and shouldn't be any rules against revealing our own personal details. It's rather too late for some of us in that respect anyway. As much as I appreciate the answer given by Ground Zero in the Pub ("It would be the Wikivoyage Community [who decides what's offensive etc], by a warm and friendly consensus, like everything else we do here.") I'd still want to understand how exactly that would work. Your answer basically describes the approach taken regarding the material which started this conversation, and as a community we pretty much cocked it up. So what exactly would the steps to take be, to minimise reasonable upset to the user concerned, and not appear that everyone is ganging up on someone and/or conspiring behind their back? And I still think that this conflates relatively minor "offensive" material (suggesting speaking English in QC is somehow a crime) with the much more serious and wide-ranging bigotry espoused by two banned users; the former is free speech, albeit not supported by any evidence, some of the latter could have resulted in police action, or certainly it could in the UK. They're not even comparable. Regardless of whether it specifically says "we can remove offensive material from your userpage" or not, I do think we have always had the right to remove the sort of material the two banned users spouted, wherever it crops up in Wikivoyage. I also think that if a laundry list of grievances targeting another editor on someone's userpage were discovered, it could currently be removed per [[Wikivoyage:Keep Wikivoyage fun]], as that kind of behaviour falls foul of the first four bullets in the list under "Are you being a buzzkill?", as well, potentially, as [[Wikivoyage:No real world threats]]. This, if I'm right, really means that the only times this new policy would come into play was in less straightforward, more nuanced cases like the one we were dealing with yesterday. And this being the case, it is better to write as specific and precise a policy as we can.--[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 15:09, 15 May 2020 (UTC) :Let's start where this began. Donny's offensive comment wasn't suggesting that speaking English in Quebec is a crime, it was that you "could get shot". He removed it in 2015 after Andre complained, and then restored it in 2019. Clarifying that user pages are not an unrestricted free speech zone for bigots and wackos gives us the hook to hang out hats on in cases like these. I don't think we will have to use this except in rare cases, so I don't want to spend a whole lot of time developing a process or rules around this. I think it is covered by [[Wikivoyage:Consensus]]. In the event, Donny removed the offensive statement when asked. Other users might not be do quick to do so. :I'm okay with SelfieCity's wording. I find the "whats not unacceptable is acceptable" to be redundant and kind of confusing, but I can live with it. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 17:26, 15 May 2020 (UTC) :: Being precise is a virtue, but being specific and wordy, and missing the goal, is less so – and the more precise one tries to be, the more details have to be exactly right. I prefer the shorter original wording, with the addition I suggested, if we need a policy change. I also think discussing user page content is making drama. I'd prefer to be able to remove threats and obvious bigotry on sight, explaining on the talk page immediately afterwards. If it is not obvious, I'd ask the user to change the text. Only if the issue isn't resolved in this way, it should be brought to the community. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 20:04, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ===What to do if you find offensive comments on a user page=== LPfi's comment, following ThunderingTyphoons!'s question above, makes me think we should set out what to do if you find offensive comments on a user page. This guide doesn't provide direction in that regard. I don't think the answer is easy. *If it is something very offensive, then we would want you to delete it immediately from the other person's user page: :: potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, threats, or any other material that is clearly going to bring the project into disrepute, or which is clearly to give widespread offence *If it is something mildly offensive, then the best approach would be to ask the user to remove it from his/her user page and explain why. If s/he is unwilling, then you should post a note at [[WV:Requests for comment]] to solicit the views of other editors. If a consensus indicates that it is offensive and the user still refuses to remove it, then any editor could do so. :: Advertising, possibly harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, <s>threats,</s> or any other material that could to bring the project into disrepute, or which could give offence The problems will be found in between those two ends of the spectrum. User discretion is advised. Thoughts? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:47, 15 May 2020 (UTC) :I think in the case of a minor offense, the best solution is to first go to the user talk page and discuss if the user is active (Donny didn't like content being immediately changed on his userpage either; his talk page demonstrates that). :I agree with [[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]]. :Policy should be like a Constitution; people are always challenging it and trying to find ways around it, so it needs to be clear and take every precaution to avoid becoming obsolete. More later. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 22:23, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::Yes, address a minor offence on the talk page is exactly what I suggested above. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:32, 15 May 2020 (UTC) :::Sorry I misread. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 23:13, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::::"Threats" should be in one category or the other, I think, unless you're referring to threats on a different scale from each other. But we need to be careful that this doesn't go too far. I agree with [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]]'s post in the [[pub]] that the chances of someone finding such content is small. ::::Look at how long it took us to find the offensive content in LM's userspace. So while I think we should remove it when we find it, I don't see anything else we can do here. The chances of a user posting such content is unlikely, extremely unlikely, as quite a few of our regular users don't even have user pages, and those who have user pages don't include much more than a brief description and places traveled. Therefore, the whole scenario must be kept in perspective. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 23:19, 15 May 2020 (UTC) ::::Good catch on threats. I've updated the text. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 23:39, 15 May 2020 (UTC) :::::One thing I wish to say though is that I don't think people should be policing how much personal information people want to reveal on their user page. Revealing another user's personal information is a big no-no, you should be free to reveal as much personal information you want about yourself. :::::And as for truths, I think there's a bit of a grey line. IMO, obvious jokes should be allowed as long as they're not offensive, but I agree that we should not allow things like racist or anti-Semitic content, or blatantly offensive stuff like pornography and what not. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 01:11, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::I agree with a ban on undue revelations of personal information, because how could you know it's really their personal information? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:45, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::OK, I see your point. But we should definitely give more leeway as to how much people want to post about themselves. Some people post photos of themselves on their user page, and I think they should be free to do so. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 05:04, 16 May 2020 (UTC) [undent]I'd be ok with that. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:40, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ===Proposal 2=== {{Ping|LPfi|ThunderingTyphoons!|SelfieCity|The dog2|Ikan Kekek}} Opinion seems to be split between my shorter version and SelfieCity's longer version. To try to get this moving, I've tried to commergeulate the two versions, and to add on the advice on what to do if you find had stuff on a user page. I think that should be on our [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]] page, with a link from here. Here is the new proposal: :''While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post want they want on their user pages, user pages should be limited to either Wikivoyage-related content or other, non-controversial personal information a user decides to share. (Users should consider the risks of sharing personal information before doing so.) A user page should not be used to post material that is likely to give widespread offence, or is likely to bring the project into disrepute. Wikivoyage is not a soapbox. Such comments will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis through [[Wikivoyage:Consensus|consensus]] established in the community.'' ::''Examples of acceptable material: places visited, biographies, user sandbox, travel articles not allowed in mainspace'' ::''Examples of unacceptable material: potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, threats, or any other material that is is likely to give widespread offence, or that is likely to bring the project into disrepute.'' To add to [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]], with a link from here: :'''''User pages''''' :''While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post want they want on their user pages, if you find something that violates [[Wikivoyage:User page help]]:'' :*''If it is something very offensive, then delete it immediately from the other person's user page. This includes:'' ::: ''Potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, threats, or any other material that is clearly to give widespread offence or clearly going to bring the project into disrepute,'' :*''If it is something mildly offensive, or if you have doubts about it, then ask the user to remove it from his/her user page and explain why. If s/he is unwilling, then you should post a note at [[WV:Requests for comment]] to solicit the views of other editors. If a consensus indicates that it is offensive and the user still refuses to remove it, then any editor could do so. This includes:'' ::: ''Advertising, possibly harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, or any other material that could give offence, or could to bring the project into disrepute.'' I struggled with the wording "Content that is not deemed unacceptable should always be considered acceptable" because that seems to override the underlying idea that user pages should be for Wikivoyage-related content and personal information. I think we can get across the idea of leniency/not policing this by adding "While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post want they want on their user pages". With respect to personal information, I have added "Users should consider the risks of sharing personal information before doing so." to alert users to risks -- it's not our job to protect them from themselves. I hope that this closer to an acceptable solution. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:04, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :Yes, though perhaps this could go on its own policy page. But for the time being, let's incorporate into our existing policy page that comes closest to the exact topic. I would remove "then we would want you to," which is unnecessary. Otherwise I think this is a good policy on this issue. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 19:12, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::I've removed "we would want to you to" and "the best approach". It reads better now. Thanks. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 19:28, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::I think it looks good, but should we also explicitly mention that it must comply with [[Wikivoyage: Don't tout]]? Sure, we should also allow people to provide links to their blog, YouTube channel or business as part of their profile, but Wikivoyage cannot be used to advertise them. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 19:39, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::: There are wordings I do not like. ::::* Why "''non-controversial'' personal information"? I understand we might want some restriction, but I think that is not ''the'' restriction we want (and grammar tweak: "or other" should be "and"). ::::* Here is also the disrepute statement. I think users should be allowed to state their point regarding conflicts on Wikivoyage, which may cause disrepute especially if the critique is well-founded – cf the other site. ::::* In the former passage community consensus is required also in the cases where it is not on the latter. This makes it obvious that we should handle these things in only one place; either say nothing about interpretation and sanctions in the latter or leave all user page specific policy to it. ::::* The second passage repeats the same problems, and adds rules (or clarifications?) not there. :::: --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:42, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::: Referencing Don't tout would be good. About disrepute: such content should be allowed when it concerns Wikivoyage (at least in most cases). Bringing disrepute by unrelated discussion can be forbidden, but stating one is homosexual, comunist, Christian or the like, which could cause disrepute or offence in some circles, should be allowed. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:45, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::::: ("Controversial personal information"? --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:47, 16 May 2020 (UTC)) :::::::Well, for obvious reasons, we can't be allowing people to post sexually explicit content on their user page. So that is an example of personal information we can't allow. And likewise, you can't be posting things like Nazi or white supremacist slogans. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 19:51, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::::Isn't "Don't tout" covered by "advertising" not being acceptable? ::::::::Isn't "controversial personal information" covered by "widespread offence"? ::::::::For that matter, maybe bringing Wikivoyage into "disrepute" is covered by "widespread offence", if what we mean is pornography, pedophilia, discriminatory statements.... There would be no point in using "disrepute" against a user page if the dispute is well covered in talk pages, so I don't think that concern is valid. But maybe we can drop "disrepute" altogether. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:56, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::::: Posting pornography should be covered (of course). That is not personal information. I talked about stating that one is homosexual, useful information when cooperating about LGBT content. It could be causing offence and disrepute, widespread in some circles, but that's their problem. Telling one's political views is a more delicate question. Usually there is a clear distinction between telling one's position and posting propaganda or offending slogans, but there is probably a grey zone. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 21:29, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::::: I don't think that the community would agree that someone posting that they are gay, or Christian, or conservative, or vegan would cause widespread offence. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:50, 16 May 2020 (UTC) {{outdent}}OK, I just didn't know if that was meant to be an addition or to replace the content already there. But anyway, I don't think everything needs to be discussed. For things that are very obviously offensive (eg. pornography, explicitly bigoted statements, threats, etc.), an admin should be able to just go in and delete the offending content. Discussion and consensus should be applied more to things that are not so obvious. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 21:06, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :Good. That is what the proposal is intended to do. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:50, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::I think it's fine. We can post it onto the page itself. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 02:17, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ===Proposal 3=== This is what it would look like with the changes I have suggested above: :''While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post what they want on their user pages, user pages should be limited to either Wikivoyage-related content or personal information that a user decides to share. (Users should consider the risks of sharing personal information before doing so.) A user page should not be used to post material that is likely to give widespread offence, as determined by the Wikivoyage community. Wikivoyage is not a soapbox. Such comments will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis through [[Wikivoyage:Consensus|consensus]] established in the community.'' ::''Examples of acceptable material: places visited, biographies, user sandbox, travel articles not allowed in mainspace'' ::''Examples of unacceptable material: potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, threats, or any other material that is likely to give widespread offence.'' To add to [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]], with a link from here: :'''''User pages''''' :''While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post want they want on their user pages, if you find something that violates [[Wikivoyage:User page help]]:'' :*''If it is something very offensive, then delete it immediately from the other person's user page. This includes:'' ::: ''Potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, threats, or any other material that is clearly to give widespread offence,'' :*''If it is something mildly offensive, or if you have doubts about it, then ask the user to remove it from his/her user page and explain why. If s/he is unwilling, then you should post a note at [[WV:Requests for comment]] to solicit the views of other editors. If a consensus indicates that it is offensive and the user still refuses to remove it, then any editor could do so. This includes:'' ::: ''Advertising, possibly harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, or any other material that could give offence.'' I would like to add in "personal attacks on other contributors" as a grounds for immediate deletion. Comments? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:55, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :: I saw a mention of advertising. That shouldn't be edited out of user pages. Instead, they should be deleted, with a touting warning put on that user's talk page, or if its obviously irrelevant spam, deleted with the user blocked indefinitely right away by an admin. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:58, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::Should this be deleted outright or after consultation? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:08, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::For very offensive stuff, we should probably just block the user outright. I can't imagine someone posting, say, the n-word, Nazi slogans or pornography on their user page being serious about wanting to contribute to a travel guide. People like that are at best just trolls. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 22:56, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::: Touting & especially user pages that consist solely of advertising should be removed. A user who has made non-touty contributions elsewhere should get the benefit of the doubt; ask him or her to remove it. If a touty user page is the only thing the user posts or if he/she ignores a talk page requests, then nuke it. :::: A link to the user's employer, blog or personal web site is fine unless it is part of touting text; if it is, then delete the touting & keep the link. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 23:03, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::: I delete user pages that are obvious ads right away. I should say, I think that other than in exceptional situations, we should maintain a hands-off policy on user pages, so I disagree with deleting only touting portions of a user page. I say, delete the page and give the user the opportunity to replace it with one that has no touting. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:07, 16 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::So what do you say about blocking the user for things like threats and harassment on the user page? The last thing we want to do is waste out time with obvious trolls. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 23:30, 16 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::I don't disagree with The dog2, but I think that's a different policy page, not [[Wikivoyage:User page help]]. Maybe we can sort out what to do with user pages first, and move on to the question of blocking users somewhere else. I think the approach would be the same whether it's on the user page, a talk page or elsewhere. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) [undent]Of course. Who would disagree with that? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 01:57, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :Is there any grounds for consensus here? I've tried three versions, but each seems to raise as many objections as the last. Should I just drop the idea, or is it worth continuing to work on this? I think it is worth clarifying this both for people who post on user pages, and those who find problems on them, even though it doesn't happen often. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 02:13, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :: I agree with most of the proposed text above, but having just indefinitely blocked a spambot and summarily deleted what in this case was a spam user talk page but just as easily could have been their user page, there's no way I could support language suggesting we should waste time discussing what to do with promotional user pages, and I don't know why you'd suggest not deleting those on sight. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:22, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :::See Pashley's point above. Where an otherwise constructive editor crosses a line and puts something mildly touty on their user page, do we delete on sight, or discuss the problem with them? Some people seem loath to invade the user page unless necessary. I would agree that if it's just touting by someone who has only come here to tout, we needn't waste time with them. I can adjust the wording to reflect that of this would move the proposal forward. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 02:40, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::::I think it's fine. We can post it onto the page itself. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 02:17, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :::::Yes, please adjust the wording, because I misunderstood the intention of that part, and ideally, the language should be clear on its own, without having to refer people to a specific post on this talk page. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:03, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :::::: I think an adjustment saying something along the line of "for touting and pages created to cause offence, see ..." would solve the issue. The advertising here would be, as said above, constructive editors being a little too enthusiastic about their day job, political stance or whatever. I'd also say: change "Such comments will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis ..." to "Comments in the grey zone will ...". --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:14, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::: (And GZ: Your frustration is understandable, but the thing is we did not have a clear enough understanding of what grey zones – or black ones – there are. Different wordings touched different issues. I think it is not about us having different views on the issues themselves. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:14, 17 May 2020 (UTC)) ::::::::I think it is important to keep the wording "case-by-case basis" which is easy to understand. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 11:15, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::::: No problem with that, just that not every instance has to be discussed. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:19, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::::::Oh yes, I see your point now. I agree that it needs to be clarified that they can be evaluated by the community, if necessary, but that many minor offenses can be resolved without a consensus due to existing policy. (Such as [[Wikivoyage:Don’t tout]], etc. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 11:37, 17 May 2020 (UTC) {{outdent}} Proposal 3 is much improved in my opinion. But I still have some questions and doubts, and while I sympathise that this may cause frustration, I can only apologise and voice them anyway. * The wording of your first italics bit is good. I'm absolutely fine with providing guidance to users on what should and shouldn't go in their user pages. I do think, however, that "(Users should consider the risks of sharing personal information before doing so.)" is kind of redundant and obvious; "...personal information that a user decides to share." is sufficient to get the point across, but if others disagree perhaps it could be revised to "...personal information that a user '''feels comfortable sharing'''." The second lot of italics are slightly less straightforward for me. * One reason for this is I'm not sure whom it addresses. Are we giving any user the right to edit any other user's page if they see something that they think is offensive? If so, what are they supposed to do when the user reverts them? Do they edit war in support of the policy, do they contact an administrator, do they do an Rfc? Or do we limit direct interference to administrators, who would at least have the power to stop an edit war in its tracks? * There's still a problem with defining "offence", as it's subjective. One person's joke is another person's insult. * One way to address both of these issues might be to say that any removal of content called "offensive" that is reverted (so one user thinks it's offensive and the other - possibly the author - disagrees) automatically goes to Rfc to solicit the community's opinion without any further edits or discussion among the two involved users. In theory at least, if something is obviously offensive, the bulk of the community will agree and swiftly reach a consensus. *'''But''' I also still kind of think that anything not serious enough to warrant immediate deletion and sanctions against the offending user is also not serious enough for the wider community to spend valuable time discussing. Things which "might cause offence", or that are "possibly harmful /damaging" could easily as well just be left alone, as there could be more damage inflicted to the community by debating it than not (for instance, if the discussion gets heated because a substantial number of people are on both sides; or if it drags on for days on end and detracts from building a travel guide). A possible rule of thumb might be (1) if ''you'' are personally upset by something, you should edit it out if serious enough or discuss with the person on their talk page if not, but (2) if you just think that "hmm, someone (but not me) may be offended if they see this", you should think long and hard before taking any action beyond a quiet suggestion to the author on their talk page. Any other thoughts? --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 12:56, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :Agreed. :People can't just decide that because someone's user page content is "offensive" in their subjective opinion, and that it should therefore be removed without any discussion whatsoever with the person who originally posted the material. People will take advantage of a guideline of that nature. :On the other hand, we all know that there have been users, throughout the history of the website, who've posted content that truly ''should'' be removed from the website (in userspace or elsewhere), and it's impossible to build a consensus quickly enough to revert their edits. The problem is finding the balance between removing all content that could remotely be considered offensive, and leaving all content on the website even if it is offensive. The best balance between these two, in my opinion, is to take the same good-faith approach to userspace editing that we should take to edits in mainspace (not that we do, unfortunately, and I'll admit I'm guilty of making unfair judgments of others' contributions myself). We should assume that a potentially offensive comment (vague terminology, which &mdash; perhaps &mdash; should be clarified in this policy) was made in good faith unless evidence is clearly to the contrary. :We have to remember that not everyone takes policy and applies it the way it should be applied. Even an administrator with a personal dislike of another user or issue might use this policy as an opportunity to penalize that person unfairly. Such a scenario is unlikely, but possible, so I think we must take it into account if we decide to make the above proposal actual policy. :Perhaps the proposal would be better as a guideline similar to [[Wikivoyage:Deny recognition]]? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 13:16, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::I think the easiest way to get around this potential issue to to explicitly define what content warrants immediate deletion from the User Page. As I previously mentioned, I think most of us can agree that things like sexually explicit content, threats and racial slurs should warrant immediate deletion. I understand that people have different standards as to what constitutes "bigotry", so it has to be for things that are clear cut, like if someone uses the n-word, the k-word or things along those lines. And of course, we should include blatantly offensive stuff like Nazi or white supremacist slogans. That said, some leeway should be given. For instance, I'm a scientist and don't agree with this position, but a Biblical literalist editor should be free to declare on their user page that they don't believe in evolution. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 21:00, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :::The issue is always going to be one of degree. There won't be a clear dividing line that will be the same for everyone. The extreme cases of explicitly racist text are easy. Then it gets trickier. If someone has something deleted from their user page, they can appeal to the community, and there will be a discussion. If some sees something that is somewhat racist, I don't think leaving it alone is a good solution: if the user who posted it won't take it down, getting community input is the only solution. I don't see any way around this. :::Do we want to put deletions from user pages in the hands of administrators to incorporate a level of control/accountability on the process? "If you see something offensive, post a message in the pub and let me admin handle it." Then it will be up to admins to decide between automatic deletion and consulting others, and face the consequence of losing admin rights of they abuse the power. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:17, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::::I think that could work too. But we should define some guidelines as to what warrants immediate deletion without consultation. After all, different admins will also find different things offensive. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 22:06, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ===Proposal 4=== Let's try this: :''While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post what they want on their user pages, user pages should be limited to either Wikivoyage-related content or personal information that a user decides to share. Wikivoyage is not a soapbox. Such comments will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis through [[Wikivoyage:Consensus|consensus]] established by the community.'' ::''Examples of acceptable material: places visited, <u>auto</u>biographies, user sandbox, travel articles not allowed in mainspace'' ::''Examples of unacceptable material: potentially harmful/damaging content unrelated to Wikivoyage, advertising, threats, personal attacks on other contributors, or any other material that is likely to give widespread offence, as determined by the Wikivoyage community.'' To add to [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]], with a link from here: :'''''User pages''''' :''While Wikivoyage provides users considerable freedom to post what they want on their user pages, if you find something that violates [[Wikivoyage:User page help]], you can ask the user to remove it by posting a message on their talk page, or let the administrators know by posting a notice at [[WV:Requests for comment]] with a link to the user page, indicating what part of it is offensive.'' :''If it is something is clearly unacceptable, then an administrator will delete it immediately from the user page.'' :''If it is something where there is doubt about it being unacceptable, the administrator should exercise their discretion. They may ask the user to remove it from their user page and explain why. If the user is unwilling, then the administrator should post a note at [[WV:Requests for comment]] to solicit the views of other editors. If other editors agree that it is offensive and the user still refuses to remove it, then any administrator could do so. '' :''Where any unacceptable material has been posted on a user page by someone whose activity on Wikivoyage has been limited to posting such material, an administrator may delete the unacceptable material from the user page.'' :''Removing content from a user page is a serious matter that could drive contributors away from Wikivoyage. Administrators should exercise caution, and seek to resolve problems through discussion with the user if possible.'' :''Users who believe that the content was removed inappropriately, may appeal to other editors for reconsideration by posting a note at [[WV:Requests for comment]].'' With regard to suggestions about having clear guidelines for what falls into each category, I'd love to see proposals for that. I think we could discuss those for weeks without getting to a resolution. I think that we have to trust administrators, and I have added some wording to let admins know that they should not delete precipitously. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:49, 17 May 2020 (UTC) :For the first part, I think what constitutes unacceptable content should be established by the entire community, not just the admins. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 23:05, 17 May 2020 (UTC) ::I agree. And in the second part – RFC is for soliciting the views of the entire community, not just administrators. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 00:26, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::There doesn't seem to be a meeting room for admins.... But it seems that you want admins to delete when it's clear, but if there's doubt, to consult the broader community. Is that correct? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 00:34, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::Yes, I think that's reasonable. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 00:41, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::Yes, more or less (delete in extreme/obvious cases, bring it up on the user talk page otherwise, consult the broader community as a backup). My point is that in the phrase "may appeal to other administrators by posting a note at [[WV:Requests for comment]]", I would replace "administrators" with "editors" (in addition to the change The dog2 suggested for the first part). —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 00:51, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::I have made edits to the above text to reflect these changes. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:23, 18 May 2020 (UTC) {{outdent}}I think it looks good now. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 01:29, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :I'm a bit confused about this sentence: "Where any material has been posted on a user page by someone whose activity on Wikivoyage has been limited to posting such material, an administrator may delete any or all of the user's talk page." Is there a mistake in this sentence? If not, I don't understand the rationale for it. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 01:38, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::This is to address [[user:Ikan Kekek]]'s comment above "there's no way I could support language suggesting we should waste time discussing what to do with promotional user pages, and I don't know why you'd suggest not deleting those on sight." If someone comes to Wikivoyage just to post ads for their furniture shop, and puts the same info on their user page, we don't need to discuss it. Just delete. If an otherwise constructive editor posts info about their furniture shop on their user page, we discuss it with them. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:45, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::Then I would suggest rephrasing it "If a user's only activity on Wikivoyage is to post advertising, an administrator may delete that advertising from their user page and user talk page." Would that work? The other phrasing is confusing and suggests, at least to me, an unfriendly welcome for a user who created a user page to introduce themselves before starting to edit articles. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 01:54, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::I wouldn't want to limit it to advertising. If they come here and only make mildly racist, sexist, anti-Semitic or homophobic comments on talk pages, and on their user page, I'm okay with immediate deletion. I'm okay with being unfriendly to someone who's not being constructive in the first place. I've posted so many friendly and helpful messages to editors who've posted inappropriate stuff, and then we never hear from them again. Let's save our energy for constructive editors. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 02:02, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::I'll point out though that besides obvious slurs, sometimes things like this may just come down to misunderstandings. For instance the Spanish word for the colour "black" is "negro", (eg. el gato negro; the black cat), so it is certainly possible for a native Spanish speaker to not know that the word is a racial slur in American English. Likewise, the Italian word for "bassoon" is "fagotto", and the German word, which was derived from the Italian word is "Fagot". Mistranslations are certainly possible for someone whose English level is more rudimentary, so we should certainly be forgiving in such situations. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 02:20, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::::Agreed. I'm ok with this proposed language. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:32, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::Then how about this: "Where any material has been posted on a user page by someone whose activity on Wikivoyage has been limited to posting unacceptable material, an administrator may delete any or all of the user page."? (To be honest I think even that is a little harsh, for the reason The dog2 said, but I can live with it.) If a user creates a harmless user page (like "My name is A and I love travel!") before editing any articles, I don't want an administrator to delete their user page or user talk page on that basis. The current proposal makes it sound like a harmless user page or user talk page can be deleted on the basis that the user hasn't made any other contributions to Wikivoyage. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 02:56, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::: Ah, I see your concern now. There was an "unacceptable" missing. I have added it in above. I don't think we mean to delete "I love travel", but rather "I love Al's Furniture in Omaha" or "I don't trust Dutch people". (Of course, ''I'' trust the Dutch. This is a reference to [https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/379482-there-s-only-two-things-i-hate-in-this-world-people Michael Caine].) [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 03:05, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::::Thank you, that resolves my main concern. The remaining issue is that the sentence first refers to "a user page" and then to "the user's talk page". If read literally, this means that unacceptable content on the user page justifies deletion of the user talk page, which is surely not the intention. Maybe something like "Where any unacceptable material has been posted on a user page by someone whose activity on Wikivoyage has been limited to posting such material, an administrator may delete any or all of the user<s>'s talk</s> page." Or, if we want to be harsher, "Where any unacceptable material has been posted on a user <u>or user talk</u> page by someone whose activity on Wikivoyage has been limited to posting such material, an administrator may delete any or all of the <s>user's talk page</s> <u>material</u>." —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 03:19, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::::::::Also a good point. I think we can limit the deletion to unacceptable material, and have made that change above. Anything else? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:39, 18 May 2020 (UTC) {{outdent}} I made a couple of other minor corrections. Looks good to me now. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 11:50, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :Thanks. I've removed the mark-up and will leave it for a couple of days before posting. I believe that there is consensus now. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:10, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::I don't see user talk pages mentioned in proposal 4. Can content be deleted from them as well? The existing policy as I understand it is that we shouldn't edit others' comments. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 13:03, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::Added, for clarity, with mark-up. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:09, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::Okay, but I'm not sure policy should be applied to user talk pages and user pages in the same way. I would recommend applying the policy only to user pages first, and then discussing the addition of user talk pages, as this complicates the discussion beyond its original goal. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 13:50, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::::I agree on that front because, functionally, there's not much difference between a user talk page and any other type of talk page. Even if the guidelines for talk pages are similar, the potential differences, which we haven't properly considered, complicate this proposal. [[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 13:59, 18 May 2020 (UTC) {{outdent}} (Outdent, by all means carry on the talk page discussion above) - Other than a stray "RfC from administrators", rather than wider community, I am finally happy with the wording. Thanks to Ground Zero for listening to everyone and putting in the majority of the legwork here. [[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 14:05, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :That's what I get paid the big bucks for. Not that I get paid for this.... :I don't understand the concern about removing unacceptable content from use talk pages. If a comment is offensive on a user page, it's offensive on a talk page? If we won't accept advertising on a user page, why would we accept it on a user talk page? Leaving our user talk pages leaves a great big loophole to exploit. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:20, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::I don't think anyone's suggesting leaving them, just addressing them separately. The reason that I see for this, is that any policy or guideline about user talk pages may as well apply to other talk pages, the Pub etc. --[[User:ThunderingTyphoons!|ThunderingTyphoons!]] ([[User talk:ThunderingTyphoons!|talk]]) 15:07, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::[[Wikivoyage:Using_talk_pages]] says, at the very bottom of the page, ::::"Off-topic rants on talk pages will usually be deleted." :: Personally, I would use this to delete what we are calling "unacceptable material" here. I think that our wording provides clearer direction, and would be useful for dealing with talk pages, but for the sake of moving this forward, I'll remove user talk pages from the above. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:57, 18 May 2020 (UTC) :::I guess that means we have consensus to include proposal four into policy? Though it wouldn't do any harm to wait for a few days in case anyone else has a comment to make. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">Selfie City</span>]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">talk</span>]] | [[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|<span style="color:blue">contributions</span>]]) 17:31, 18 May 2020 (UTC) What about the "decides to share" → "feels comfortable to share"? I think it is good to remind users about the problems of sharing too much, and it does not change anything material concerning the issue we are trying to solve. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:57, 18 May 2020 (UTC) And: was it agreed that non-admins shouldn't be encouraged to give a note on the talk page (or remove obviously offensive material)? I think bringing something up on RfC feels too strong for something minor, or e.g. the "fagot" mentioned above, where a friendly note on the talk page should be enough. Normally only things that require admin tools are left to admins. --[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 18:03, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::I've added some wording to give the non-admin discretion to decide. If it's something really bad, it's probably best to contact an admin for immediate removal. If it's questionable, the non-admin might handle it themselves, but if we spell out rules for every eventuality, this will be too long for anyone to read, so I've left it at their discretion. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:04, 19 May 2020 (UTC) :I am happy with the proposal. One small point is in the "Examples of acceptable material" it would be better to say autobiographies than biographies. I don't think we want biographies of other people. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 20:12, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::That's a very good point. Quite a few users have put biographies of some Bollywood or pop star on their user page (usually plagiarized). [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:20, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::Done. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 01:04, 19 May 2020 (UTC) :::If you ask me, I think deletion of the unacceptable material should be restricted to admins, but any user should be free to bring it up on the user talk page for discussion. There are many new users who will be understanding and remove the material if you are reasonable and ask nicely, and there's not always a need to get an admin involved. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 21:13, 18 May 2020 (UTC) ::::That is what the proposal says, so we're good. I'll leave this for comment by others who may not have seen it yet for a few more days, then post it. Thanks everyone. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:56, 21 May 2020 (UTC) :{{done}} [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:11, 29 May 2020 (UTC) mvrhaiws3h7vdb7rasesx3qwta3de6b 10 78259 5091327 5089917 2025-07-11T10:35:34Z Ypsilon 1806 5091327 wikitext text/x-wiki <!--Please sweep old Discoveries to the archive, which is [[Discover]]. Add them at the top of that page. --> <!--Even if months are always written with two digits, days from 0-9 should be written WITHOUT an extra zero! --> {{#switch: {{CURRENTMONTH}}-{{CURRENTDAY}} | 07-11= [[File:Nayiri Palace in Nalerigu.jpg|right|200px]] * It is '''illegal to cross in front of Nayiri Palace''' (''pictured'') '''on a bicycle or motorbike''' in [[Nalerigu]]; doing so will get you fined. * The State Farms Museum in [[Haikou]] focuses on the '''history of Hainan Island's rubber industry'''. * Boullanger Island off the coast of [[Jurien Bay]] is home to the dibbler, a '''rare marsupial mouse'''. | 07-12= [[File:Nayiri Palace in Nalerigu.jpg|right|200px]] * One of the most common reasons to visit [[Grodno]] is to '''buy cheap smokes and booze''' to take back into the EU where they cost more. * It is '''illegal to cross in front of Nayiri Palace''' (''pictured'') '''on a bicycle or motorbike''' in [[Nalerigu]]; doing so will get you fined. * The State Farms Museum in [[Haikou]] focuses on the '''history of Hainan Island's rubber industry'''. | 07-13= [[File:Nayiri Palace in Nalerigu.jpg|right|200px]] * The [[Swazi phrasebook|Swazi]] greeting "Sawubona", equivalent to "Hello" in English, '''literally translates as "Do I see you?"''' * One of the most common reasons to visit [[Grodno]] is to '''buy cheap smokes and booze''' to take back into the EU where they cost more. * It is '''illegal to cross in front of Nayiri Palace''' (''pictured'') '''on a bicycle or motorbike''' in [[Nalerigu]]; doing so will get you fined. | 07-14= [[File:蕪嶋神社の風景20210403-P1170273.jpg|right|200px]] * '''Over 30,000 seagulls gather around Kabushima Shrine''' (''pictured'') in [[Hachinohe]] to breed from February to August. * The [[Swazi phrasebook|Swazi]] greeting "Sawubona", equivalent to "Hello" in English, '''literally translates as "Do I see you?"''' * One of the most common reasons to visit [[Grodno]] is to '''buy cheap smokes and booze''' to take back into the EU where they cost more. | 07-15= [[File:蕪嶋神社の風景20210403-P1170273.jpg|right|200px]] * Every July [[Kuhmo]] hosts the '''biggest chamber music festival in Finland'''. * '''Over 30,000 seagulls gather around Kabushima Shrine''' (''pictured'') in [[Hachinohe]] to breed from February to August. * The [[Swazi phrasebook|Swazi]] greeting "Sawubona", equivalent to "Hello" in English, '''literally translates as "Do I see you?"''' | 07-16= [[File:蕪嶋神社の風景20210403-P1170273.jpg|right|200px]] * '''Teletubbies Hill''' in [[Jayapura]] was given the name by locals for its resemblance to the grassy hill from the famous British TV show, Teletubbies. * Every July [[Kuhmo]] hosts the '''biggest chamber music festival in Finland'''. * '''Over 30,000 seagulls gather around Kabushima Shrine''' (''pictured'') in [[Hachinohe]] to breed from February to August. | 07-17= [[File:Pescado blanco a la veracruzana.jpg|200px|right]] * Pescado blanco (''pictured'') is a specialty of [[Patzcuaro]], characterized by its used of '''white fish from Lake Patzcuaro'''. * '''Teletubbies Hill''' in [[Jayapura]] was given the name by locals for its resemblance to the grassy hill from the famous British TV show, Teletubbies. * Every July [[Kuhmo]] hosts the '''biggest chamber music festival in Finland'''. | 07-18= [[File:Pescado blanco a la veracruzana.jpg|200px|right]] * '''Franz Kafka spent his childhood holidays''' in [[Třešť]], which you can learn more about from exhibits in the Former Jewish Synagogue. * Pescado blanco (''pictured'') is a specialty of [[Patzcuaro]], characterized by its used of '''white fish from Lake Patzcuaro'''. * '''Teletubbies Hill''' in [[Jayapura]] was given the name by locals for its resemblance to the grassy hill from the famous British TV show, Teletubbies. | 07-19= [[File:Pescado blanco a la veracruzana.jpg|200px|right]] * The Sea Gypsy Village in [[Ko Lanta]] helps preserve the distinct culture of '''seafaring nomads who've lived in the area for over 500 years'''. * '''Franz Kafka spent his childhood holidays''' in [[Třešť]], which you can learn more about from exhibits in the Former Jewish Synagogue. * Pescado blanco (''pictured'') is a specialty of [[Patzcuaro]], characterized by its used of '''white fish from Lake Patzcuaro'''. | 07-20= [[File:Sur-Dhow yard (16).JPG|right|200px]] * [[Sur]] has '''one of the last dhow shipyards''' (''pictured'') where you can still see dhows being built in the traditional way. * The Sea Gypsy Village in [[Ko Lanta]] helps preserve the distinct culture of '''seafaring nomads who've lived in the area for over 500 years'''. * '''Franz Kafka spent his childhood holidays''' in [[Třešť]], which you can learn more about from exhibits in the Former Jewish Synagogue. | 07-21= [[File:Sur-Dhow yard (16).JPG|right|200px]] * The Museum of Clean in [[Pocatello]] is all about the history of cleanliness; it includes a '''dog treadmill-powered washing machine from the late 1800s'''. * [[Sur]] has '''one of the last dhow shipyards''' (''pictured'') where you can still see dhows being built in the traditional way. * The Sea Gypsy Village in [[Ko Lanta]] helps preserve the distinct culture of '''seafaring nomads who've lived in the area for over 500 years'''. | 07-22= [[File:Sur-Dhow yard (16).JPG|right|200px]] * If you wake up early enough, you can '''ride the mining truck with the miners''' to reach and explore Chambillaya Mine from [[Quime]]. * The Museum of Clean in [[Pocatello]] is all about the history of cleanliness; it includes a '''dog treadmill-powered washing machine from the late 1800s'''. * [[Sur]] has '''one of the last dhow shipyards''' (''pictured'') where you can still see dhows being built in the traditional way. | 07-23= [[File:The Sultan Attahiru Mbormi Tomb.jpg|200px|right]] * The '''famed Sokoto Caliphate was ended''' at the Mbormi Battle Ground near [[Bajoga]] when the British successfully killed Sultan Attahiru (''tomb pictured'') without leaving a successor. * If you wake up early enough, you can '''ride the mining truck with the miners''' to reach and explore Chambillaya Mine from [[Quime]]. * The Museum of Clean in [[Pocatello]] is all about the history of cleanliness; it includes a '''dog treadmill-powered washing machine from the late 1800s'''. | 07-24= [[File:The Sultan Attahiru Mbormi Tomb.jpg|200px|right]] * The limestone crags in [[Kalymnos]] have '''nearly 1,000 sport routes''' for rock climbing. * The '''famed Sokoto Caliphate was ended''' at the Mbormi Battle Ground near [[Bajoga]] when the British successfully killed Sultan Attahiru (''tomb pictured'') without leaving a successor. * If you wake up early enough, you can '''ride the mining truck with the miners''' to reach and explore Chambillaya Mine from [[Quime]]. | 07-25= [[File:The Sultan Attahiru Mbormi Tomb.jpg|200px|right]] * One way to '''categorize hand-woven [[carpets]]''' is to determine whether they are nomad rugs, made on portable nomad looms, or town rugs, made on stationary looms. * The limestone crags in [[Kalymnos]] have '''nearly 1,000 sport routes''' for rock climbing. * The '''famed Sokoto Caliphate was ended''' at the Mbormi Battle Ground near [[Bajoga]] when the British successfully killed Sultan Attahiru (''tomb pictured'') without leaving a successor. | 07-26= [[File:DSC01154 Blowhole in Samoa.jpg|right|200px]] * The Alofaaga Blowholes (''pictured'') in [[Savaii]] occur when '''ocean water travels through lava tubes and shoot out the holes''' like geysers. * One way to '''categorize hand-woven [[carpets]]''' is to determine whether they are nomad rugs, made on portable nomad looms, or town rugs, made on stationary looms. * The limestone crags in [[Kalymnos]] have '''nearly 1,000 sport routes''' for rock climbing. | 07-27= [[File:DSC01154 Blowhole in Samoa.jpg|right|200px]] * Although [[Lofoten]] sits '''above the Arctic Circle''' at the same latitude as Greenland and northern Siberia, the Gulf Stream keeps the winter temperature just '''around 0*C instead of -40*C'''. * The Alofaaga Blowholes (''pictured'') in [[Savaii]] occur when '''ocean water travels through lava tubes and shoot out the holes''' like geysers. * One way to '''categorize hand-woven [[carpets]]''' is to determine whether they are nomad rugs, made on portable nomad looms, or town rugs, made on stationary looms. | 07-28= [[File:DSC01154 Blowhole in Samoa.jpg|right|200px]] * For the Jordan Pavilion at the [[Expo 2025|2025 World Expo Osaka]], '''22 tons of sand were transported from''' [[Wadi Rum]]''', Jordan to Osaka, Japan'''. * Although [[Lofoten]] sits '''above the Arctic Circle''' at the same latitude as Greenland and northern Siberia, the Gulf Stream keeps the winter temperature just '''around 0*C instead of -40*C'''. * The Alofaaga Blowholes (''pictured'') in [[Savaii]] occur when '''ocean water travels through lava tubes and shoot out the holes''' like geysers. | 07-29= [[File:Soto Museum 2.jpg|right|200px]] * '''World-renowned Venezuelan plastic art sculptor Soto''' has some of his best works (''one pictured'') on display at Jesús Soto Modern Art Museum in [[Ciudad Bolívar]]. * For the Jordan Pavilion at the [[Expo 2025|2025 World Expo Osaka]], '''22 tons of sand were transported from''' [[Wadi Rum]]''', Jordan to Osaka, Japan'''. * Although [[Lofoten]] sits '''above the Arctic Circle''' at the same latitude as Greenland and northern Siberia, the Gulf Stream keeps the winter temperature just '''around 0*C instead of -40*C'''. | 07-30= [[File:Soto Museum 2.jpg|right|200px]] * The city of [[Pelling]] is named after its British founder Freddie Pelling, who '''became a local hero when he established protections for the town from northern raiders'''. * '''World-renowned Venezuelan plastic art sculptor Soto''' has some of his best works (''one pictured'') on display at Jesús Soto Modern Art Museum in [[Ciudad Bolívar]]. * For the Jordan Pavilion at the [[Expo 2025|2025 World Expo Osaka]], '''22 tons of sand were transported from''' [[Wadi Rum]]''', Jordan to Osaka, Japan'''. | 07-31= [[File:Soto Museum 2.jpg|right|200px]] * Visit [[Pea Ridge]] to see remnants of an important battle in the American Civil War that '''gave the Union control of Missouri'''. * The city of [[Pelling]] is named after its British founder Freddie Pelling, who '''became a local hero when he established protections for the town from northern raiders'''. * '''World-renowned Venezuelan plastic art sculptor Soto''' has some of his best works (''one pictured'') on display at Jesús Soto Modern Art Museum in [[Ciudad Bolívar]]. }} <noinclude> {{documentation}} </noinclude> <!-- Days of one month. Copy, paste, and change the month parameter if it's not January, and delete the last parameter(s) if the month doesn't have 31 days. A text editor in your computer is handy for this, to make sure you don't edit any of the discoveries by accident. Then cut and paste discoveries from Wikivoyage:Discover#Nominations, to the days and move the whole set to the end of the queue above. | 01-1= | 01-2= | 01-3= | 01-4= | 01-5= | 01-6= | 01-7= | 01-8= | 01-9= | 01-10= | 01-11= | 01-12= | 01-13= | 01-14= | 01-15= | 01-16= | 01-17= | 01-18= | 01-19= | 01-20= | 01-21= | 01-22= | 01-23= | 01-24= | 01-25= | 01-26= | 01-27= | 01-28= | 01-29= | 01-30= | 01-31= --> 55r6euc9jhxy31mw9u4x9j57w66tb7m 14 117267 5090788 2111777 2025-07-10T13:17:47Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090788 wikitext text/x-wiki {{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Papua New Guinea}} 5zwc93l64ncjmcd8wq9s04lndnnp1rl 14 118284 5090787 2112921 2025-07-10T13:17:32Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090787 wikitext text/x-wiki {{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Papua New Guinea}} 5zwc93l64ncjmcd8wq9s04lndnnp1rl 0 120537 5091099 5086528 2025-07-11T00:38:47Z SHB2000 2248002 replace with Forillon 5091099 wikitext text/x-wiki {{mapbanner | title=<span style="font-size:40px">[[Wikivoyage:Welcome, newcomers|Welcome]] to [[Wikivoyage:About|Wikivoyage]]</span> | tagline=The free worldwide travel guide that ''[[Wikivoyage:Plunge forward|you can edit]]''.<br><span style="font-size:smaller">The official, non-commercial [[#siteContainer|sister site]] '''of Wikipedia''' for sightseeing, activities, cuisine and accommodation around the world.</span> | touristoffice=Got a specific question? 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Post it here!]</span> *[[Wikivoyage:How to edit a page|How to edit a page]] *[[Wikivoyage:Tips for new contributors|Tips on contributing]] *[[Wikivoyage:Community portal|Community portal]] *[[Wikivoyage:Policies|Policies]] *[[Wikivoyage:Expeditions|Expeditions]] *[[Wikivoyage:Requested articles|Requested articles]] *[[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub|Travellers' pub]] <!-- The Featured Collaboration is commented out as there is no active Featured Collaboration: *[[Wikivoyage:Featured collaboration|Featured collaboration]]--> }} {{WikivoyageSister}} <div class="nomobile">{{wikivoyagelang}}</div> <div class="nomobile" margin-top:-1em;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="float:right;">[[Main Page/Photo credits|<span style="color:var( --color-subtle, gray)">photo credits</span>]]</div> {{Title-Index page}} __NOEDITSECTION____NOTOC__ pxx8g4a8mkf6wik3j0dg9y5s67igexs 0 120993 5091170 4546146 2025-07-11T03:00:17Z DaGizza 162256 /* Understand */ 5091170 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|NW Coastal Highway banner 3.jpg }} The '''North West Coastal Highway''' is in [[Western Australia]] and runs from [[Geraldton]] in the mid-west to [[Port Hedland]] in the north. It is numbered Highway One – and is an extension of the Brand Highway that runs from near Perth to Geraldton. ==Understand== [[File:North West Coastal Highway map.png|thumb|Map of north-western Western Australia, with North West Coastal Highway highlighted in red]] It's an amazing trip, and including the [[Brand Highway]], the trip from Perth to Port Hedland is over 1,700 km. To get a sense of that distance, the trip from Adelaide to Perth is close to 2,700 km. But this route is travelling into the Mid West, and Pilbara regions of Western Australia that are The Highway goes past some of the most impressive coastline in Australia. To understand the trip is not just the length, but the range of climates, and the sheer size of Western Australia can be appreciated by travelling this highway. You pass over the Tropic of Capricorn just north of the Minilya roadhouse (near the Lyndon River), as well as through a region with some of the largest iron ore deposits in the world just inland from your route, and some of the oldest rock on the planet. ==Prepare== Its a great trip and a busy highway, you need to be prepared for long sections between roadhouses, as well as hot long boring sections, good food supplies and water supplies are worth getting at the larger stops like Geraldton and Carnarvon. As an itinerary this trip can be spread out in time as long as you can afford, as there are stopping places, and regions that can consume time. ==Get in== From Perth, travel north along [[Great Northern Highway]], turn left at Brand Highway, and continue through to Geraldton to reach the southern end of North West Coastal Highway. Other routes can be taken to reach Brand Highway near Dongara, such as Wanneroo Road and then Indian Ocean Drive from Perth's north-west, or The Midlands Road from Moora. From the state's north or the Northern Territory, travel along Great Northern Highway to Port Hedland. The northern end of North West Coastal Highway is about 30 kilometres beyond the Port Hedland turnoff. ==Drive== Attractions along Brand Highway, between Perth and Geraldton, include unique WA wildflowers such as Western Australian Christmas tree, kangaroo paw, grass tree plus various national parks. [[Dongara]], as well as the off-highway settlements of [[Jurien Bay]] and [[Cervantes]] are popular tourist destinations. En route, there are several roadhouses. Between [[Geraldton]] and [[Carnarvon]], the highway passes through remote and dry semi-desert areas. There are no towns along the highway for about 400&nbsp;km, with several [[Roadhouse (facility)|roadhouse]]s being the only settlements. Travellers are advised to bring adequate drinking water as the roadhouses do not provide it for free. On this stretch, a turnoff at the Overlander Roadhouse leads to [[Shark Bay]] with its world-famous [[Monkey Mia]] via a stretch of road known as World Heritage Drive. [[Carnarvon]], the only town between Geraldton and [[Karratha]], marks a change in climate. Bananas and other subtropical fruits are grown here. Unlike the subtropical areas on the east coast, the climate is much drier, but Carnarvon is also notorious as one of Western Australia's windiest locations. Further north, the highway passes through desert and becomes very flat. Bridges span many creeks and rivers, which from the distance can be spotted by stands of eucalyptus which grow along their courses towering above the surrounding spinifex and mulga plants. Most of the time these creeks and rivers are dry; however between November and April, the passage of cyclones and other rain bearing depressions can cause the rivers to rise from dry to over 10 metres deep in less than a day. Near Minilya Roadhouse is the turnoff to the [[North West Cape]] area which is home to the tourist destinations of Cape Range National Park, [[Coral Bay]] and [[Exmouth (Western Australia)|Exmouth]]. Exmouth is also home to the US Navy communications base. Further north the road goes inland and crosses the [[Ashburton River (Western Australia)|Ashburton River]] near Nanutarra Roadhouse. Nearby is the access road to the mining towns of [[Tom Price]], [[Paraburdoo]] and the former asbestos ghost town, [[Wittenoom]]. The following turnoff leads to the coastal town of [[Onslow]]. After crossing the Robe River, Fortescue River, and Maitland River, the highway reaches [[Karratha]]. Karratha, together with its nearby sister town [[Dampier]], is home to the [[North West Shelf]] oil & gas project, and the [[Pilbara|Pilbara's]] number two iron ore exporting port. A little further east, [[Roebourne]] is the gateway to [[Wickham]], the nearby ghost town of [[Cossack]], and [[Point Samson]], the region's number three iron ore port. The highway finishes near [[Port Hedland]], the region's number one iron ore port and one of the largest towns in Western Australia's northwest, with 15,000 residents. The remoteness of the northwest can be gauged by the number of roadhouses serving the highway, which are the only settlements for some of the long stretches of the highway. Significant distances separate larger towns such as Geraldton, Carnarvon and Port Hedland with extensive rangeland expanses. The highway provides access to some of the better known tourist destinations in the North West of Western Australia. ==Stay safe== The highway has long monotonous sections where drivers fall asleep at the wheel - be vigilant in watching other vehicles movememnts and behaviour. These stretches of the highway have seen serious accidents, with fatigue often being identified as the cause. The roadhouses along the route are excellent stops for coffee or stretching the legs, and have sufficient facilities for drivers on the long stages of the route. If riding at dawn or dusk expect wildlife that goes to the roadside, and be vigilant at that time for tired truck drivers not paying attention. Where necessary if a road train is in the vicinity, pull off the road and wait for it to pass if in doubt as to its capacity to slow down while passing you. Also '''never''' attempt to pass a road train unless you are 100% sure you can see the road ahead. Road trains can be long, you'll generally need several kilometres of empty straight road ahead to be able to safely overtake a road train. ==Go next== * Return to Perth along the inland route - south along the [[Great Northern Highway]] that goes via Newman and Meekatharra * Go further up the coast, from Port Hedland to [[Broome]] along the Great Northern Highway {{Related|Driving_in_Australia}} {{usableitinerary}} {{related|Western Australia}} {{PartOfItinerary|Oceania itineraries}} 3higrdlp86h1wwz42n68dxqf18eg82e 0 121819 5090790 4337371 2025-07-10T13:19:31Z Mrkstvns 144844 add pagebanner image 5090790 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Chui Brazil banner.jpg|pgname=Chuí}} [[Image:RS-699 - 01.JPG|thumb|325px|Scenery from RS-699 through Chuí]] '''Chuí''' is in the state of [[Rio Grande do Sul]] in the [[South (Brazil)|South]] of [[Brazil]], at the border with [[Uruguay]]. It's right across the street from its sister town of [[Chuy]], Uruguay. ==Understand== ==Get in== Buses are available from [[Porto Alegre]], [[Pelotas]], [[Rio Grande (Rio Grande do Sul)|Rio Grande]], and seasonally from [[Florianopolis]]. Because Chuí is a very small city, buses only run a few times a day, so [http://www.buscaonibus.com.br/ look up the schedules] beforehand. Buses stop at the {{marker|type=go|name=Estação Rodoviária de Chuí|lat=-33.690411|long=-53.453702|image=Estação Rodoviária de Chuí.jpg}} at R. Venezuela, 247. ''(Chuí-Porto Alegre tickets with company Planalto can only be bought in person at Chuí bus station, so sometimes the schedule do not appear on search engines. But the timetable is the same in both directions, that is two services a day: 13:00 and 23:30)'' The border is open, so you're free to walk back and forth between Chuí and Chuy. If you plan to continue into Uruguay past the town of Chuy, though, make sure you get your passport stamped at {{marker|type=go|name=passport control|lat=-33.6718580|long=-53.4436740}} before entering the town. Bus drivers should stop there and wait for you if you ask them to. When leaving Chuy for the rest of Uruguay, you'll likewise need to stop at {{marker|type=go|name=Uruguayan passport control|lat=-33.7075180|long=-53.4604810}}, and the same thing in reverse if you're coming from Uruguay to Brazil. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} ==See== * {{see | name=Chuí Lighthouse | alt=Farol Chuí | url= | email= | address= | lat=-33.7417 | long=-53.3736 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chuí Lighthouse | image=Farol Barra 02.JPG | wikidata=Q2839542 | content= }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Il Forte Pizzaria | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Bertelli Chui Hotel | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Doubles R$150 | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} ==Connect== ==Go next== * [[Chuy]], right across the border in Uruguay {{routebox | image1=BR-471 RS.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=N | majorl1=[[Rio Grande (Rio Grande do Sul)|Rio Grande]] | minorl1= | directionr1=S | majorr1=[[Chuy]] | minorr1=Becomes [[File:R9-UY.svg|18px]] }} {{IsPartOf|Southeast (Rio Grande do Sul)}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|-33.690833|-53.456944}} mujpbnl6dbg8gcxlmdlu9es6pdulf3w 0 122495 5090899 4858151 2025-07-10T15:01:21Z Mrkstvns 144844 pagebanner, punch up lede 5090899 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|São Leopoldo banner.jpg|pgname=São Leopoldo}} [[File:20240720-Neues-Einwanderer-Denkmal.jpg|thumb|[[Sculpture|Contemporary sculpture]] in São Leopoldo]] '''São Leopoldo''' is an industrial city in the [[Grande Porto Alegre]] region of [[Rio Grande do Sul]]. It is known for its German immigrant community that keeps German traditions alive in Brazil. ==Understand== ==Get in== [[File:Trensurb portoalegre.png|thumb|300px|TRENSURB station map.]] ===Train=== Locals call it the TRENSURB. You can take the train from the airport to many stops in São Leopoldo and to cities beyond (Porto Alegre, Canoas, Esteio, Sapucaia do Sul, and Novo Hamburgo). The fare is R$1.70 and there's a station near the Porto Alegre Rodoviaria (central bus station) and Porto Alegre Salgado Filho airport. It is more or less safe to walk during day time from Rodoviaria or the airport to the stations. ==Get around== ==See== * {{see | name=Geological History Museum of Rio Grande do Sul | alt=Museu de História Geológica do Rio Grande do Sul | url= http://www.unisinos.br/lab/mhgeo {{dead link|August 2018|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=building 6 on the campus of the University of Vale do Rio dos Sinos - UNISINOS | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{routebox-1 | image1=BR-116-rs.png | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=S | majorl1=[[Porto Alegre]] | minorl1=[[Sapucaia do Sul]] | directionr1=N | majorr1=[[Lages]] | minorr1='''[[Novo Hamburgo]]''' | image2=Rs-240 shield.svg | imagesize2=35 | directionl2=S | majorl2=Start of Road | minorl2= | directionr2=N | majorr2=[[Montenegro, Rio Grande do Sul|Montenegro]] | minorr2=[[Portão]] }} {{IsPartOf|Grande Porto Alegre}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|-29.76|-51.146944}} 8nccvo2ws2pnbchhygw0zcxq2nhn88u 4 122663 5091104 5086535 2025-07-11T00:42:50Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Forillon National Park */ archived 5091104 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Destination of the month candidates banner Calendar.png}} {{shortcut|[[dotm banners]]}} Please suggest banners for display on the main page for upcoming features below. Please use banner dimensions of '''1700 x 567''', and keep the blurb text to a reasonable length. The images from which you create the banners should be of high quality, and ideally of equal or greater resolution than the banner (to ensure high resolution). For inspiration, take a look in the banner [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Banners/Hall_of_Fame|Hall of 'Fame']]. Please upload all banner suggestions [[special:upload|locally]]—to Wikivoyage rather than Commons, and put them in [[:Category:DotM banners]]. If starting a discussion on a suggested feature that has not been discussed yet below, put the discussion at the bottom of the page underneath a new first-level header, such as <code><nowiki>=[[Lyon]]=</nowiki></code> When updating the Main Page banners, please update [[Main Page/Photo credits]] as well. Once in situ, suggested banners and their accompanying discussions will be [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Banners/Archive|archived]]. {{WikivoyageDoc|collaboration}} <br clear="all" /> =[[Sekigahara]]= {{banner|direction=left|width=50%|title=Sekigahara|section=Off the Beaten Path|section-link=Previously Off the beaten path|image=SekigaharaBanner1.jpg|quote=This quaint mountain town and battlefield, where Tokugawa won control of Japan, gives visitors firsthand insight into feudal Japanese warfare. }} * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:59, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:06, 7 January 2025 (UTC) =[[Sound of Music]]= {{banner|direction=left|width=37%|title=Sound of Music|section=Featured Travel Topic|section-link=Previous Featured travel topics|image=SoundOfMusicBanner1.jpg|quote=Hollywood's 1965 depiction of the Austrian Trapp Family is one of the most successful musicals ever, though not in Austria itself. It is a great showcase of Salzburg and the Alps. }} *{{s}} //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:59, 22 May 2025 (UTC) =[[Gothenburg]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=55%|title=Gothenburg|section=Destination of the Month|section-link=Previous Destinations of the month|image=GothenburgBanner1.jpg|quote=Scandinavia's most populous non-capital city springs into life during the summer months.}} *{{s}} I do love the semi-industrial setting, too. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:59, 22 May 2025 (UTC) =[[Paldiski]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=50%|title=Paldiski|section=Off the Beaten Path|section-link=Previously Off the beaten path|image=PaldiskiBanner1.jpg|quote=In this Baltic Sea port you can dive into the remains of the former Soviet Union.}} *{{s}} //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:59, 22 May 2025 (UTC) =[[Gemstones]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=40%|title=Gemstones|section=Featured Travel Topic|section-link=Previous Featured travel topics|image=GemstonesBanner1.jpg|quote=Many travellers buy gems or jewellery during their journeys. }} And more banners for the upcoming months. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 13:50, 1 May 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:59, 22 May 2025 (UTC) 2uy5wc1t08354efpf2hf3fpepbs6atq 0 122680 5091108 5086538 2025-07-11T00:49:30Z SHB2000 2248002 5091108 wikitext text/x-wiki <div align=center style="color:#aaa; background-color:black; padding:2em; width:100%"> <div align="left">[[Main Page|<span style="color:#aaa;">< Back to Main Page</span>]]</div> <br/><br/><br/> {| style="text-align:left" | [[File:Cuzco 50.jpg|center|700px]] <br clear="all"> "[[:c:File:Cuzco 50.jpg]]" by [[:c:User:Marrovi|Marrovi]] * Derivative work: [[User:Ypsilon|<span style="color:darkgreen">Ypsilon</span>]] |} {| style="text-align:left" | [[File:Forillon Nat'l Park (27188325389) (cropped).jpg|center|700px]] <br clear="all"> "[[:c:File:Forillon Nat'l Park (27188325389) (cropped).jpg]]" by [https://www.flickr.com/people/27501268@N00 Jock Rutherford]] * Derivative work: [[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:darkgreen">SHB2000</span>]] |} {| style="text-align:left" | [[File:Hoheikyo spa roten.JPG|center|700px]] <br clear="all"> "[[:c:File:Hoheikyo spa roten.JPG|日本語: 豊平峡温泉露天風呂]]" by [[:c:User:Soica2001|Soica2001]] * Derivative work: [[User:Ypsilon|<span style="color:darkgreen">Ypsilon</span>]] |} <br/> </div> {{Title-Index page}} rax9mo21eyr4nesk0p37wm8zasp2uhu 0 123084 5090883 3509739 2025-07-10T14:53:32Z Mrkstvns 144844 pagebanner 5090883 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|São José do Norte banner.jpg|pgname=São José do Norte}} [[Image:Mar Grosso Beach.jpeg|thumb|325px|Mar Grosso Beach]] '''São José do Norte''' is in the [[Grande Porto Alegre]] region of [[Rio Grande do Sul]]. ==Understand== ==Get in== ===By car=== From [[Porto Alegre]], take '''RS-040''' east to the intersection with '''BR-101''' and head south from there through the small towns of [[Mostardas]] and Tavares to reach São José do Norte. ===By boat=== It is possible to cross from [[Rio Grande (Rio Grande do Sul)|Rio Grande]] by ferry (with space for cars) or by motorboat. ==Get around== ==See== * {{see | name=Laguna dos Patos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Mar Grosso Beach | alt=Praia do Mar Grosso | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{routebox-1 | image1=BR-101.png | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=S | majorl1=END | minorl1= | directionr1=N | majorr1=[[Osório]] | minorr1=[[Mostardas]] }} {{IsPartOf|Grande Porto Alegre}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|-32.015|-52.041944}} tixj6b7eq7l6v3vaxpo0qkgk5zrwq3c 0 123086 5090937 3506723 2025-07-10T16:00:42Z Mrkstvns 144844 pagebanner 5090937 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Palmares do Sul banner.jpg|pgname=Palmares do Sul}} [[image:Farol em Dunas Altas 02.JPG|thumb|325px|Lighthouse at Dunas Altas Beach in Palmares do Sul]] '''Palmares do Sul''' is a town in the [[Grande Porto Alegre]] region of [[Rio Grande do Sul]]. ==Understand== ==Get in== * From [[Porto Alegre]], take '''RS-040''' east to Capivari do Sul and head south on '''BR-101''' for about 12 km to the exit for downtown Palmares do Sul. ==Get around== ==See== * {{see | name=Dunas Altas Beach | alt=Praia das Dunas Altas | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Old Imperial Bridge | alt=Antiga Ponte Imperial | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Quintão Beach | alt=Praia de Quintão | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{routebox-1 | image1=BR-101.png | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=S | majorl1=[[São José do Norte]] | minorl1=[[Mostardas]] | directionr1=N | majorr1=[[Criciúma]] | minorr1=[[Osório]] }} {{IsPartOf|Grande Porto Alegre}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|-30.257778|-50.51}} ilo1d5t55ppalqcf777t7v9quco3yl3 0 123089 5090935 4858134 2025-07-10T15:57:19Z Mrkstvns 144844 pagebanner 5090935 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Osório banner.jpg|pgname=Osório}} [[Image:OsórioRSI.jpg|thumb|325px|Osório]] '''Osório''' is a city in the [[Grande Porto Alegre]] region of [[Rio Grande do Sul]]. ==Understand== ==Get in== ===By car=== * '''BR-101''' north from [[Palmares do Sul]], [[Mostardas]], and [[São José do Norte]] or south from [[Torres]] and [[Araranguá]] * '''BR-290''' east from [[Porto Alegre]] ==Get around== ==See== [[Image:Lagoa Pinguela.JPG|thumb|Lagoa Pinguela]] [[Image:Cascata osorio.jpg|thumb|Osório Falls]] * {{see | name=Balneário Atlântida Sul | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Balneário Mariápolis | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Lagoa Pinguela | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Leonel Montovani Anthropology Museum of Osório | alt=Museu Antropológico de Osório Leonel Montovani | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Marechal Manoel Luis Osório Historical Park | alt=Parque Histórico Marechal Manoel Luis Osório | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Osório Falls | alt=Cascata Osório | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Praça das Carretas | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Railroad Museum | alt=Museu da Via Férrea | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{routebox-1 | image1=BR-101.png | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=S | majorl1=[[São José do Norte]] | minorl1=[[Palmares do Sul]] | directionr1=N | majorr1=[[Criciúma]] | minorr1=[[Maquiné]] | image2=BR-290.png | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Uruguaiana]] | minorl2=[[Porto Alegre]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=Start of Road | minorr2= | image3=Rs-030 shield.svg | imagesize3=35 | directionl3=W | majorl3=Start of Road | minorl3= | directionr3=SE | majorr3=[[Tramandaí]] | minorr3= }} {{IsPartOf|Grande Porto Alegre}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|-29.886944|-50.27}} 0a7xf2pk3bn9zkghlj59ra6426r3q4u 0 123237 5090960 4858140 2025-07-10T16:45:45Z Mrkstvns 144844 pagebanner 5090960 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Sapucaia do Sul banner.jpg|pgname=Sapucaia do Sul}} '''Sapucaia do Sul''' is in [[Grande Porto Alegre]]. ==Understand== ==Get in== [[File:Trensurb portoalegre.png|thumb|300px|TRENSURB station map.]] ===Train=== Locals call it the TRENSURB. You can take the train from the airport to many stops in Sapucaia do Sul and to cities beyond (Porto Alegre, Canoas, Esteio, São Leopoldo and Novo Hamburgo). The fare is R$1.70 and there's a station near the Porto Alegre Rodoviaria (central bus station) and Porto Alegre Salgado Filho airport. It is more or less safe to walk during day time from Rodoviaria or the airport to the stations. ==Get around== ==See== * {{see | name=Chapéu Hill | alt=Morro do Chapéu | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Freitas Waterfall | alt=Queda D'Água dos Freitas | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Beautiful waterfall with an almost-30-meter drop. }} * {{see | name=Pesqueiro Ecological Station | alt=Estação Ecológico do Pesqueiro | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Park Zoo Sapucaia do Sul | alt=Sapucaia Zoological Park | url=https://www.facebook.com/zoologicors/ | email= | address=BR-116, s/n - Colonial | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+55 51 3474-1499 | tollfree= | lastedit=2023-08-17 | hours=Tu-Su 09:00-17:00 | price= | content=The Park Zoo is one of the largest in Latin America and one of the most visited conservation units in Brazil. Of its 780 hectares, 620 hectares are forest reserves and 160 are open to the public and has a collection of 900 animals, divided into about 130 species. }} * {{see | name=Sapucaia Hill | alt=Morro do Sapucaia | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=289 meters high, with a panoramic view of the region. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{routebox-1 | image1=BR-116-rs.png | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=S | majorl1=[[Porto Alegre]] | minorl1=[[Canoas]] | directionr1=N | majorr1=[[Lages]] | minorr1=[[São Leopoldo]] | image2=Rs-118 shield.svg | imagesize2=35 | directionl2=S | majorl2=[[Viamão]] | minorl2=[[Gravataí]] | directionr2=N | majorr2=Start of Road | minorr2= }} {{IsPartOf|Grande Porto Alegre}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|-29.838889|-51.143889}} 9wtwknp8eqbxkh86a9rdxd8nfjgbt4a 0 123240 5090928 4858149 2025-07-10T15:40:45Z Mrkstvns 144844 pagebanner uses wrong dimensions; cropping to 7:1 aspect ratio 5090928 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Nova Petrópolis banner.jpg|pgname=Nova Petrópolis}} [[Image:Novapetrópolis.jpg|thumb|Immigrant Village, in Nova Petrópolis]] '''Nova Petrópolis''' is a small historic and tourist town in the [[Brazil|Brazilian]] state of [[Rio Grande do Sul]]. With a unique German culture and stunning scenic landscapes, Nova Petrópolis is a good starting point for tourists exploring the Serra Gaúcha region. ==Understand== Located halfway between [[Caxias do Sul]] and [[Porto Alegre]], Nova Petrópolis was founded by German immigrants who arrived in the region in the 19th century (mainly from [[Saxony]] and [[Pomerania]]). This city has a picturesque landscape, known for its German half-timbered houses and for its typical local cuisine, with streuselkuchens, sauerkrauts, sausages and many dishes of German origin. ==Get in== === By car === The main road that connects Nova Petrópolis to Porto Alegre is BR-116. By road, the city is about 98 km (61 mi) from Porto Alegre. This highway has a duplicated section of four lanes between Porto Alegre and Ivoti, a single—lane section between Ivoti and Nova Petrópolis, and is well maintained. The road skirts several mountains and has several sinuous curves; drive carefully. === By bus === The companies that have bus services to Nova Petrópolis are [https://www.caxiense.com.br/ Caxiense], [https://www.citral.tur.br/ Citral] and [http://www.wendling.tur.br/ Wendling], all of them with bus lines departing from [[Porto Alegre]]. Caxiense also operates bus services to [[Caxias do Sul]]. === By plane === The nearest airport is '''Hugo Cantergiani Regional Airport''' ({{IATA|CXJ}}), 35 km (22 mi) away in [[Caxias do Sul]], with flights from [[Campinas]] ({{IATA|VCP}}), [[Rio de Janeiro]] ({{IATA|SDU}}) and [[São Paulo]] ({{IATA|GRU}}). It may be easier to find flights to Porto Alegre through the '''Salgado FIlho International Airport''' ({{IATA|POA}}), but from there you must take a bus or a taxi to Porto Alegre Bus Station and from there, a bus to Nova Petrópolis. ==Get around== Nova Petrópolis is a small town and most of the sights are located in the city center and can be explored on foot. However, if you want to explore more of the region, it's best to rent a car. It is recommended to stay in a city center hotel or inn if you don't have your own vehicle. ==See== * {{see | name=Green Labyrinth | alt=Labirinto Verde | url= | email= | address=Praça do Labirinto | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small hedge maze in the plaza. }} * {{see | name=Immigrant Village | alt=Aldeia do Imigrante | url= | email= | address=Av. XV de Novembro, 1966 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+55 54 3281-1254 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A beautiful green area with houses in the German post-and-beam style, with a school, blacksmith, chapel, cemetery, and an excellent historical museum with objects from the period of German immigration. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=BR-116-rs.png | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=S | majorl1=[[Porto Alegre]] | minorl1='''[[Novo Hamburgo]]''' | directionr1=N | majorr1=[[Lages]] | minorr1=[[Caxias do Sul]] | image2=Rs-235 shield.svg | imagesize2=35 | directionl2=W | majorl2=Start of Road | minorl2= | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Canela]] | minorr2=[[Gramado]] }} {{IsPartOf|Grande Porto Alegre}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|-29.375833|-51.111944}} dc3f48rvrq54m683aq82ik3j2s3pevq 0 125925 5090845 5017072 2025-07-10T13:54:11Z 203.208.106.227 /* See */ Updated listing for Château d'Aguilar 5090845 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner|Tuchan Wikivoyage Banner.jpg}} '''Tuchan''' is a village of 800 people (2019) in the Languedoc region of the south of [[France]], inland between Narbonne and Perpignan, in the heart of a wine-producing region. ==Understand== [[File:Tuchan Hotel des Postes AL.jpg|thumb|Hôtel des Postes]] Tuchan is a centre for Hautes Corbières wines, producer of Fitou, Corbières and Muscat de Rivesaltes. ==Get in== Tuchan is crossed by the RD 611 road from north to south, coming from Villeneuve-les-Corbières and in the direction of Paziols. Tuchan is 31 km from the [[Perpignan]] airport. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} ==See== [[File:Tuchan Notre-Dame-de-Faste AL15.jpg|thumb|Église Notre-Dame de Faste]] * {{see | name=Église Notre-Dame de Faste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3580562 | lastedit=2021-07-01 | content=The village church built in the 14th and 18th centuries. The building has a single nave plan and a polygonal apse with five sides. }} * {{see | name=Hôtel des postes de Tuchan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3146259 | lastedit=2021-07-01 | content=Post office built in 1905. }} * {{see | name=Château d'Aguilar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=42.890556 | long=2.746944 | directions=about 2 km east of the village of Tuchan | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1010703 | lastedit=2021-07-01 | content=It is a castle probably dates back to the 12th century and construction continued in the 13th and 14th centuries. In the 13th century it became a royal fortress. The castle is on a hill 96 m over the plain of Tuchan. It is composed of two enclosures separated by lices. The buildings in the centre of the second enclosure are all practically destroyed. The outer enclosure, constructed by engineers royal between 1262 and early 14th century, consists of six semi-circular towers. The inner wall, corresponding to the feudal castle of the lords of Termes, houses a main building and a cistern. Later this enclosure was flanked by a rectangular tower. On the southern slope of the castle remain the Sainte-Anne chapel and some vestiges of the enclosure which protected the village. }} ===Nearby=== Near Tuchan are castles that have been developed by the General Council of the Aude to stimulate tourism. The fortresses are on rocky peaks, which gave them a strategic position. The castles are well signposted on the region's roads, and can be accessed on a day trip neaeby cities, e.g., a 45-minute drive from Perpignan, 1 hour 15 minutes to drive from Narbonne, or 1½ hours from Carcassonne. They are not accessible by public transit. There are private day tours available from those cities at a cost of hundreds of euros per person. * {{see | name=Château de Quéribus | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cucugnan | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= Nov-Mar 10:00-17:00, Apr Oct 09:30-18:30, May June Sep 09:30-19:00, Jul Aug 09:00-20:00 | price=Adult €7.50, child 6-15 €4.50 | wikipedia=Château de Quéribus | wikidata=Q667763 | lastedit=2025-02-04 | content=Ruined Cathar castle atop a mountain. This small castle was the lasr redoubt of the Cathars, where they held out for 12 years after their last major loss to the Albigensian crusaders. It offers beautiful views around the region. The paths are narrow and steep in places, so it is not accessible for those with mobility issues. The ticket office has toilets and a small giftshop. }} * {{see | name=Château de Peyrepertuse | alt= | url=https://www.peyrepertuse.com | email= | address=Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Aor-Jun Sep 09:00-19:00, Jul Aug 09:00-20:00, Mar Oct 10:00-18:00, Feb Nov 10:00-17:00, Dec Jan 10:00-16:30 | price=Adult €8, child 6-12 €4.50, child under 6 free | wikipedia=Peyrepertuse | image=Peyrepertuse (66).jpg | wikidata=Q944597 | lastedit=2025-02-04 | content=Ruined Cathar castle in the Pyrénées mountains. It is a large complex with two castles atop a mountain range, with beautiful views around the region. The paths are narrow and steep in places, so it is not accessible for those with mobility issues. The ticket office has toilets and a small giftshop. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Aude}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|42.88801|2.71997|zoom=15}} 55lmlc4fpb7hohy4obo1n5dd77ximd5 5090847 5090845 2025-07-10T13:55:21Z 203.208.106.227 /* Nearby */ Updated listing for Château de Quéribus 5090847 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner|Tuchan Wikivoyage Banner.jpg}} '''Tuchan''' is a village of 800 people (2019) in the Languedoc region of the south of [[France]], inland between Narbonne and Perpignan, in the heart of a wine-producing region. ==Understand== [[File:Tuchan Hotel des Postes AL.jpg|thumb|Hôtel des Postes]] Tuchan is a centre for Hautes Corbières wines, producer of Fitou, Corbières and Muscat de Rivesaltes. ==Get in== Tuchan is crossed by the RD 611 road from north to south, coming from Villeneuve-les-Corbières and in the direction of Paziols. Tuchan is 31 km from the [[Perpignan]] airport. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} ==See== [[File:Tuchan Notre-Dame-de-Faste AL15.jpg|thumb|Église Notre-Dame de Faste]] * {{see | name=Église Notre-Dame de Faste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3580562 | lastedit=2021-07-01 | content=The village church built in the 14th and 18th centuries. The building has a single nave plan and a polygonal apse with five sides. }} * {{see | name=Hôtel des postes de Tuchan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3146259 | lastedit=2021-07-01 | content=Post office built in 1905. }} * {{see | name=Château d'Aguilar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=42.890556 | long=2.746944 | directions=about 2 km east of the village of Tuchan | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1010703 | lastedit=2021-07-01 | content=It is a castle probably dates back to the 12th century and construction continued in the 13th and 14th centuries. In the 13th century it became a royal fortress. The castle is on a hill 96 m over the plain of Tuchan. It is composed of two enclosures separated by lices. The buildings in the centre of the second enclosure are all practically destroyed. The outer enclosure, constructed by engineers royal between 1262 and early 14th century, consists of six semi-circular towers. The inner wall, corresponding to the feudal castle of the lords of Termes, houses a main building and a cistern. Later this enclosure was flanked by a rectangular tower. On the southern slope of the castle remain the Sainte-Anne chapel and some vestiges of the enclosure which protected the village. }} ===Nearby=== Near Tuchan are castles that have been developed by the General Council of the Aude to stimulate tourism. The fortresses are on rocky peaks, which gave them a strategic position. The castles are well signposted on the region's roads, and can be accessed on a day trip neaeby cities, e.g., a 45-minute drive from Perpignan, 1 hour 15 minutes to drive from Narbonne, or 1½ hours from Carcassonne. They are not accessible by public transit. There are private day tours available from those cities at a cost of hundreds of euros per person. * {{see | name=Château de Quéribus | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cucugnan | lat=42.836667 | long=2.621667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Nov-Mar 10:00-17:00, Apr Oct 09:30-18:30, May June Sep 09:30-19:00, Jul Aug 09:00-20:00 | price=Adult €7.50, child 6-15 €4.50 | wikidata=Q667763 | lastedit=2025-02-04 | content=Ruined Cathar castle atop a mountain. This small castle was the lasr redoubt of the Cathars, where they held out for 12 years after their last major loss to the Albigensian crusaders. It offers beautiful views around the region. The paths are narrow and steep in places, so it is not accessible for those with mobility issues. The ticket office has toilets and a small giftshop. }} * {{see | name=Château de Peyrepertuse | alt= | url=https://www.peyrepertuse.com | email= | address=Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Aor-Jun Sep 09:00-19:00, Jul Aug 09:00-20:00, Mar Oct 10:00-18:00, Feb Nov 10:00-17:00, Dec Jan 10:00-16:30 | price=Adult €8, child 6-12 €4.50, child under 6 free | wikipedia=Peyrepertuse | image=Peyrepertuse (66).jpg | wikidata=Q944597 | lastedit=2025-02-04 | content=Ruined Cathar castle in the Pyrénées mountains. It is a large complex with two castles atop a mountain range, with beautiful views around the region. The paths are narrow and steep in places, so it is not accessible for those with mobility issues. The ticket office has toilets and a small giftshop. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Aude}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|42.88801|2.71997|zoom=15}} cxn72zfnginewltcy3yf7a9zrcr5dgu 5090853 5090847 2025-07-10T14:01:04Z 203.208.106.227 /* Nearby */ Updated listing for Château de Peyrepertuse 5090853 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner|Tuchan Wikivoyage Banner.jpg}} '''Tuchan''' is a village of 800 people (2019) in the Languedoc region of the south of [[France]], inland between Narbonne and Perpignan, in the heart of a wine-producing region. ==Understand== [[File:Tuchan Hotel des Postes AL.jpg|thumb|Hôtel des Postes]] Tuchan is a centre for Hautes Corbières wines, producer of Fitou, Corbières and Muscat de Rivesaltes. ==Get in== Tuchan is crossed by the RD 611 road from north to south, coming from Villeneuve-les-Corbières and in the direction of Paziols. Tuchan is 31 km from the [[Perpignan]] airport. ==Get around== {{Mapframe}} ==See== [[File:Tuchan Notre-Dame-de-Faste AL15.jpg|thumb|Église Notre-Dame de Faste]] * {{see | name=Église Notre-Dame de Faste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3580562 | lastedit=2021-07-01 | content=The village church built in the 14th and 18th centuries. The building has a single nave plan and a polygonal apse with five sides. }} * {{see | name=Hôtel des postes de Tuchan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3146259 | lastedit=2021-07-01 | content=Post office built in 1905. }} * {{see | name=Château d'Aguilar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=42.890556 | long=2.746944 | directions=about 2 km east of the village of Tuchan | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1010703 | lastedit=2021-07-01 | content=It is a castle probably dates back to the 12th century and construction continued in the 13th and 14th centuries. In the 13th century it became a royal fortress. The castle is on a hill 96 m over the plain of Tuchan. It is composed of two enclosures separated by lices. The buildings in the centre of the second enclosure are all practically destroyed. The outer enclosure, constructed by engineers royal between 1262 and early 14th century, consists of six semi-circular towers. The inner wall, corresponding to the feudal castle of the lords of Termes, houses a main building and a cistern. Later this enclosure was flanked by a rectangular tower. On the southern slope of the castle remain the Sainte-Anne chapel and some vestiges of the enclosure which protected the village. }} ===Nearby=== Near Tuchan are castles that have been developed by the General Council of the Aude to stimulate tourism. The fortresses are on rocky peaks, which gave them a strategic position. The castles are well signposted on the region's roads, and can be accessed on a day trip neaeby cities, e.g., a 45-minute drive from Perpignan, 1 hour 15 minutes to drive from Narbonne, or 1½ hours from Carcassonne. They are not accessible by public transit. There are private day tours available from those cities at a cost of hundreds of euros per person. * {{see | name=Château de Quéribus | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cucugnan | lat=42.836667 | long=2.621667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Nov-Mar 10:00-17:00, Apr Oct 09:30-18:30, May June Sep 09:30-19:00, Jul Aug 09:00-20:00 | price=Adult €7.50, child 6-15 €4.50 | wikidata=Q667763 | lastedit=2025-02-04 | content=Ruined Cathar castle atop a mountain. This small castle was the lasr redoubt of the Cathars, where they held out for 12 years after their last major loss to the Albigensian crusaders. It offers beautiful views around the region. The paths are narrow and steep in places, so it is not accessible for those with mobility issues. The ticket office has toilets and a small giftshop. }} * {{see | name=Château de Peyrepertuse | alt= | url=https://www.peyrepertuse.com | email= | address=Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse | lat=42.8708 | long=2.55537 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Aor-Jun Sep 09:00-19:00, Jul Aug 09:00-20:00, Mar Oct 10:00-18:00, Feb Nov 10:00-17:00, Dec Jan 10:00-16:30 | price=Adult €8, child 6-12 €4.50, child under 6 free | wikidata=Q944597 | lastedit=2025-02-04 | content=Ruined Cathar castle in the Pyrénées mountains. It is a large complex with two castles atop a mountain range, with beautiful views around the region. The paths are narrow and steep in places, so it is not accessible for those with mobility issues. The ticket office has toilets and a small giftshop. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Aude}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|42.88801|2.71997|zoom=15}} 7eehgnbnu61r20mtlwuaqhwi880lo0r 0 127696 5091136 5047625 2025-07-11T01:47:23Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* See */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091136 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Kainuu_banner_Pudasjärvi_swamp.jpg|caption=A swamp in Pudasjärvi, a typical landscape for the region}} '''Kainuu''' is a region in [[Northern Finland]]. For practical purposes, the easternmost parts of Northern Ostrobothnia are also included in this article. Natural landscapes are omnipresent – this is the region where people go to see wildlife of the deep forests. But there are also historical and cultural attractions; the Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival draws a big audience from all of Finland and from abroad. ==Cities== {{mapframe}} {{mapshape|wikidata=Q193180,Q984934,Q939771,Q207999,Q985337,Q912952,Q860965,Q985326,Q738472,Q214054,Q985456,Q985447,Q984936}} There are four municipalities counted as cities: Kajaani, Kuhmo, Kuusamo and Pudasjärvi. The rest of the "cities" below are rural municipalities or former municipalities. Also the "cities" cover a lot of countryside and wilderness. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kajaani]]|wikidata=Q193180}} — by far the largest town around, castle ruins from the 1600s * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Hyrynsalmi]]|wikidata=Q984934}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuhmo]]|wikidata=Q939771}} — bears, wolves and wolverines: the area around this town is where the nature documentaries are filmed * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Kuusamo]]|wikidata=Q207999}} — town near the Ruka resort * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Paltamo]]|wikidata=Q985337}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Pudasjärvi]]|wikidata=Q912952}} — transportation hub of some importance * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Puolanka]]|wikidata=Q860965}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Ristijärvi]]|wikidata=Q985326}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Sotkamo]]|wikidata=Q738472}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Suomussalmi]]|wikidata=Q214054}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Taivalkoski]]|wikidata=Q985456}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Utajärvi]]|wikidata=Q985447}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Vaala]]|wikidata=Q984936}} * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Vuolijoki]]|wikidata=Q610490}} — part of the city of Kajaani, at the southern shore of Oulujärvi ==Other destinations== [[File:Karhunkierros - Kiutakongas.jpg|thumb|Kiutaköngäs by the Karhunkierros trail]] * {{marker|name=[[Ruka]]|wikidata=Q762945}} — the second most popular ski resort in Finland * {{marker|name=[[Vuokatti]] |wikidata=Q1749889}} — internationally renowned ski and sports resort, also popular spa * {{marker|name=[[Oulanka National Park]] |wikidata=Q127322 |lat=66.373|long=29.339}} — one of the most popular national parks and home of the most popular trekking route, the ''Karhunkierros'' * {{marker|name=[[Hiidenportti National Park]] |wikidata=Q2658641}} — impressive gorge and untouched forests * {{marker|name=[[Vaala#Rokua National Park|Rokua National Park]] |wikidata=Q2313367 |lat=64.562|long=26.495}} — compact collection of glacial formations * {{marker|name=[[Posio#Syöte National Park|Syöte National Park]] |wikidata=Q2661377}} – southernmost true fells in Finland * {{marker|name=[[Suomussalmi#Hossa National Park|Hossa National Park]] |wikidata= |lat=65.4786|long=29.3358}} – national park established in 2017 and famous for its prehistoric rock paintings ==Understand== Kainuu and the Eastern Oulu region, together known by the geographical name '''Koillismaa''' ("Northeast Finland"), is a peaceful and natural place with little or no pollution problems. In fact, Kainuu was one of the first regions in Finland to start taking care of the environment and nature and stop consuming natural resources. Nature is omnipresent and outdoor activities in the wilderness are present in the daily life of most people. Even in the largest city Kajaani, you do not have to travel far from the city centre to the forest. ===Climate=== [[File:Skiing (8455770686).jpg|thumb|Cross country skiing trail near Ruka; noon in early February]] The winters can be harsh, with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures; in Kiutaköngäs {{Celsius|-46}} has been recorded (typical winter temperatures are much more moderate, though). For wilderness adventures in winter, use a programme service or an appointed guide (check in advance whether you need any preparations yourself), or be sure you know what you are doing. Day trips along trails are often possible independently also in winter, in good weather (but check forecasts and what to expect from the trail itself). ==Talk== Like in most of Finland, English is widely spoken. Since Kainuu region neighbours Russia, some places also offer service in Russian, at least near the Russian border. ==Get in== {{VisaRestriction|In response to Russia's war in Ukraine, Russian tourists are banned from entering Finland. As of February 2024, all land borders between Russia and Finland remain closed. |lastedit=2024-02-17}} There are flights from [[Helsinki Airport|Helsinki-Vantaa]] to '''Kajaani Airport''' and '''Kuusamo Airport'''. The eastern north-south line of the Finnish train network connects Kajaani to southern Finland, and there are also trains from Oulu. Further north, intercity bus is the only mode of transportation if you aren't driving. The Finnish road network is dense and the roads are generally in good shape. From Russia there are the border crossings of {{marker|type=go |name=Vartius|url=|lat=64.5452|long=29.9855}} from [[Kostomuksha]] and {{marker|type=go|name=Kuusamo|url=|lat=65.7987|long=30.0993}} (Kuusamo-Суоперя) from northernmost Russian [[Karelia]]. There are no passenger trains over the border at Vartius. There is a '''rail''' line [[Kouvola]]–[[Pieksämäki]]–[[Kuopio]]–[[Iisalmi]]–Kainuu–Kontiomäki–Paltamo–Vaala–Utajärvi–[[Oulu]]. The railways from Kontiomäki to other directions don't carry passengers. The main '''road''' to the region from the south is highway 5 from Helsinki via Savonia and [[Iisalmi]] to Kajaani, Hyrynsalmi, Suomussalmi and Kuusamo, and on to [[Kemijärvi]]. Road 81 leads from [[Rovaniemi]] to Kuusamo, road 78 via [[Posio]] to Pudasjärvi. Road 20 leads from [[Oulu]] to Pudasjärvi, Taivalkoski and Kuusamo, road 22 to Utajärvi, Vaala, Paltamo and Kajaani. Road 28 leads from [[Kokkola]] via [[Kärsämäki]] and [[Pyhäntä]] towards Kajaani. For '''coaches''', see [https://www.matkahuolto.fi/en Matkahuolto]. E.g.: * [http://www.rukataksi.fi Rukan Taksi ja Huoltopalvelu] and Koillismaan Liikenne ({{phone|+358 40-756-9095}}, service possibly only in Finnish) drive from Rovaniemi to Kuusamo. * [http://www.pohjolanmatka.fi Pohjolan Matka] serves a route between Oulu and Joensuu via Kajaani. * [http://www.saagatravel.fi Saaga Travel] serves a route from Oulu to Kajaani via Vaala. * Onnibus M9 drives Turku—Tampere—Jyväskylä—Kuopio—Kajaani ==Get around== There are a couple of daily coaches along the major highways. Most towns and municipalities have connections from Oulu, Kajaani or both at least once a day. In weekdays of the school year bus connections are more frequent, but in weekends and in summer services are reduced. If you do not have your own car and need to get to a more remote place, you might need to take a taxi. Long taxi rides aren't uncommon in Northern Finland. See [http://www.matkahuolto.fi/en Matkahuolto] for normal coach and bus connections. See also [http://www.kajaaninseudunjoukkoliikenne.fi Kajaanin seudun joukkoliikenne] for public service obligation regional bus routes. Trains are useful for destinations on the main lines. Not all stations may be served. ===By taxi=== * Smartphone apps: Valopilkku, 02 Taksi, Menevä, Taksini * [https://korpitaxi.fi Korpitaxi] offers taxi service in Kainuu region * [https://www.otaxi.fi Otaxi] offers taxi service in Eastern Oulu region * [https://www.uber.com/global/en/cities/oulu/ Uber] offers taxi service in Eastern Oulu region ==See== [[File:Brown bear (Ursus arctos), Viiksimo, Kainuu region, Finland (29058988558).jpg|thumb|Brown bear (''Ursus arctos'') in the forest of Kainuu]] [[File:Never sleeps, never stops - Flickr - Janne Räkköläinen.jpg|thumb|Hepoköngäs waterfall in Puolanka]] You will see endless forests and bogs, and – if you're lucky – wildlife. Bears, wolves, wolverines, elk (moose), and wild forest reindeer (Finnish: ''peura'', not ''poro'' which is domesticated) all have significant populations in the area. In fact, many nature documentaries have been filmed in the forests of Kuhmo, where population density of wild bears and wolves are high. For western bird watchers, these forests are home to some eastern species not easily spotted elsewhere outside Russia. * '''Hepoköngäs''' - at 24 m one of Finland's highest waterfalls, in Hepoköngäs Nature Reserve, [[Puolanka]]; the 600-m trail to the waterfall is accessible by wheelchair. In winter the northern part of the area get the '''heaviest annual snowfall''' in Finland. Snow cover over one meter thick is just normal. There are also cultural sights: * {{marker|type=see |name=The castle ruins in Kajaani |wikidata=Q2628629|lat=NA|long=NA}} – castle built in the early 1600s * {{marker|type=see |name=Hossa rock paintings |wikidata=Q5478589|lat=NA|long=NA}} – prehistoric paintings on rock * {{marker|type=see |name=Paltamo museum of local history |wikidata=Q60988693|lat=NA|long=NA}} * {{marker|type=see |name=Puolanka museum of local history |wikidata=Q60977142|lat=NA|long=NA}} * {{marker|type=see |name=Ristijärvi White guard and Lotta sister exhibition |wikidata=Q61866946|lat=NA|long=NA}} * {{marker|type=see |name=Raate frontier guard museum |wikidata=Q61867128|lat=NA|long=NA}} * {{marker|type=see |name=Raate Gate |wikidata=Q89577361|lat=NA|long=NA}} – memorial and exhibition on the ''Battle of Raate Road'' during the Winter War * {{marker|type=see |name=Suomussalmi museum of local history |wikidata=Q61611234|lat=NA|long=NA}} * {{marker|type=see |name=Kallioniemi estate |wikidata=Q11869486|lat=NA|long=NA}} – childhood home of and museum on the novelist ''Kalle Päätalo'' The {{marker|type=see |name=Kuivajärvi |wikidata=Q56400003 |lat=NA<!--64.6413-->|long=NA<!--30.0582-->}} and {{marker|type=see |name=Hietajärvi |wikidata=Q108122894 |lat=NA|long=NA}} villages in Suomussalmi as well as the small {{marker|type=see |name=Rimpi |lat=NA<!--64.5125-->|long=NA<!--129.9327-->|wikidata=Q65243859}} village in Kuhmo were important for the Karelianism movement: they are the only villages in modern-day Finland that contributed to the Kalevala, and they were visited by ethnologists and artists developing the image of the genuine historic Finnish culture. The three villages are included to the Finnish list of nationally significant built cultural environments. ==Do== * Skiing – three major ski resorts are located in the region; Vuokatti in Sotkamo, Ruka in Kuusamo and Iso-Syöte in Pudasjärvi. Around these there are also wide networks of [[cross country skiing]] tracks. * Fishing * [[Hiking in the Nordic countries|Hiking]]. There are trails of various kinds in all national parks and between some of them, ranging for one-hour ones suitable even for those with pram or wheelchair to those requiring overnighting in primitive facilities or in a tent, and sometimes finding the route on your own. The [[Right to access in the Nordic countries|right to access]] allows your finding your own paths also otherwise. ** The 80-km Karhunkierros trail from Hautajärvi through Oulanka National Park to Ruka is legendary. See [[Oulanka National Park#Do]] and [[Ruka#Karhunkierros]]. ** The UKK trail from [[Koli]] to [[Urho Kekkonen National Park]] can be used as an extension to the Karhunkierros trail northward or hiked through [[Syöte National Park]] and southward. This is a demanding long-distance trail for hardcore hikers, others should choose suitable legs or other trails. * Camping * Berry picking and mushroom collecting. Know the species you are going to collect and particularly mind the destroying angel, which resembles some commonly eaten species, especially as young. * Wildlife watching === Festivals === [[File:SommeloJamit.jpg|thumb|Jam Session in Sommelo Folk Music Festival 2007, Kuhmo]] <!-- order by date --> * {{event| name=LankaFest | url=https://www.lankafest.fi | year=2023 | date=30 June–1 July | location=Puolanka | country=Finland | content=A music festival focusing on rock and heavy music in early July. [[Puolanka]] centre. }} * {{event | name=[[Kuhmo#Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival|Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival]] | alt=Kuhmon Kamarimusiikki | url=https://kuhmofestival.fi | year=2023 | month=July | date=9 | enddate=22 | lat= | long= | directions=[[Kuhmo]] | content=Leading chamber musicians transfix the town of Kuhmo every July with a skilfully designed festival programme, inimitable concerts, beautiful surroundings and sunlit nights that open the senses to new and sublime delight. The festival is the biggest chamber music festival in Finland (where most cities have their own), with some 70 concerts and 35.000 tickets sold. }} ==Eat== *'''Rönttönen pie''', the best-known speciality in the region of Kainuu, which is a small (about the size of the palm of a hand) open faced pie consisting of a crust made of barley or rye dough, filled with a sweetened mashed potato and berry (most often Lingonberry) filling. Typically, this traditional sweet is served as an accompaniment to a coffee. ==Drink== ==Stay safe== Kainuu is a very safe region. However, outside cities you should be aware of the implications of long distances and [[cold weather]] in season. ==Go next== If you're coming from the south you'll probably continue all the way to [[Finnish Lapland|Lapland]]. If you have a valid visa (or don't need one), [[Karelia|Russian Karelia]] is located east of Kainuu. {{geo|64.5|28|zoom=6}} {{IsPartOf|Northern Finland}} {{outlineregion}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Kainuu|rel=y}} {{RelatedCommonsCat|Kainuu|rel=y}} {{RelatedWikipedia|Northern Ostrobothnia|rel=y}} {{RelatedCommonsCat|Northern Ostrobothnia|rel=y}} 61had83353rgz6iamonhycill9srs7c 0 127705 5090856 5062365 2025-07-10T14:04:37Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for Ibiza 5090856 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Komagata Maru Memorial with the museum in background in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal (4) (cropped).JPG|pgname=Southern Suburbs}} The '''Southern Suburbs''' (দক্ষিণ শহরতলি ''Dakṣiṇ Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the rapidly mushrooming areas south of the city. ==Understand== The Southern Suburbs consists of suburbs like Barisha, Behala, Bijoygarh, southern Dhakuria, Santoshpur, Garden Reach, Lake Gardens, Jadavpur, Jodhpur Park, Joka, New Alipore and Tollygunge, all of which governed by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC). Historically, these areas were distinct towns or villages south of Kolkata with their own identities before being absorbed into the municipal borders. Some of these suburbs still maintain their own separate identities with their own marketplaces and local traditions, for example Behala, Garden Reach and Jadavpur. People there still talk about "going to Kolkata" when they are talking about going to northern and central parts of the city. This article also covers outlying areas like Baruipur, Batanagar, Budge Budge, Maheshtala, Narendrapur, Pailan, Rajpur, Sonarpur and Subhasgram, all governed by the [[South 24 Parganas]] district administration. Ironically, the headquarters of South 24 Parganas is in Alipore (in [[Kolkata/South|South Kolkata]]), well outside the district boundaries. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|width=500|height=500|zoom=13|22.478|88.34|name=Map of the Southern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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===By bus=== A large number of bus routes from other parts of Kolkata and outside Kolkata ply into this district. Air-conditioned buses have also started plying, for example from Sulekha to New Town and from Tollygunge to Kolkata Airport. There are many long-distance buses from southeastern places to the north, which avoid the city crowds and travel via the EM Bypass. Garia has three bus stands. Garia No. 5 handles buses coming along Raja SC Mullick Road. The second bus depot handles buses coming along NSC Bose Road. There is a bus stand in Patuli, handling 45 no. private bus. The Garia-Gol Park autos leave from opposite the No. 5 Bus Stand. Garia No. 6 handles buses coming along NSC Bose Road. Buses travelling south of Garia are handled by either the No. 5 or No. 6 depots depending on the direction they are coming from. Autos on the Garia-Tollyguge route leave from near this bus stand. There also are autos for Boral. ===By metro=== The city district is served by metro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}} and {{rint|kolkata|3}}, with Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is the only one to get here from the rest of the city. Line {{rint|kolkata|3}} runs across Diamond Harbour Road, from Majerhat to Behala to Joka. This line is locally called '''Behala Metro'''. ===By train=== The Southern Suburbs have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. This reflects the area's origin as a group of distinct towns and villages connected to Sealdah by railways. Most local trains to South Suburban stations depart from Sealdah South terminal, adjacent to Sealdah Main. Some also depart from the adjacent Majerhat, which is useful as it provides an interchange between metro and local train. ==See== [[File:Ancestral House of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose 01.jpg|thumb|Ancestral house of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose]] [[File:Bawali Rajbari.jpg|thumb|Bawali Rajbari]] * {{see | name=Ancestral house of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose | alt= | url= | email= | address=Subhashgram | lat=22.411565 | long=88.426597 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q75539842 | lastedit=2022-11-05 | content=Janakinath Bose, father of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, used to live in [[Cuttack]] most of the time and come to this house during [[Durga Puja|Puja]] times. The area where the house is located was originally known as "Kodalia" before being later renamed to "Subhashgram" to honour the freedom fighter. The Bose family later moved to Bhowanipore further north. }} * {{see | name=Bawali Rajbari | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.42094 | long=88.19271 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4180 0305 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q99434148 | lastedit=2023-01-03 | content=A historic zamindar palace of the Mondal family. The family originally carried the title of Roy. Shovaram Roy was awarded the title of Mondal. Shovaram’s grandson, Rajaram Mondal, received the zamindari rights of 50 villages (including Budge Budge and Bawali), as a reward for his bravery, from the Raja of Hijli. They settled at Bawali around 1710. Rajaram Mondal’s grandson Haradhan Mondal, who enjoyed the patronage of British East India Company, and his sons built many temples in Bawali. The 300-year old Bawali Rajbari, with corinthian pillars, has been renovated for use as a hotel. }} * {{see | name=Bhaskar Bhawan State Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=NSC Bose Rd, Narendrapur | lat=22.42932 | long=88.40432 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-19 | content=A museum with numerous sculptures of sculptor Chintamoni Kar. }} * {{see | name=Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary | alt=CKBS, Kayaler Bagan, Narendrapur Wildlife Sanctuary | url= | email= | address=EM Bypass, Narendrapur | lat=22.4295 | long=88.4007 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5101326 | lastedit=2022-11-06 | content=Famous for its wide variety of birds, butterflies, ferns and orchids. }} * {{see | name=Komagata Maru Shaheed Ganj | alt=Punjabi Monument | url= | email= | address=Budge Budge | lat=22.489336 | long=88.183086 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q99440016 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=A memorial dedicated to the people who were killed in the Japanese steamship Komagata Maru in 1914. A group of Indians attempted to migrate to Canada in the steamship in April 1914, but most were denied entry and forced to return to Budge Budge in 27 September. There, the Indian Imperial Police attempted to arrest the group leaders. A riot ensued, and they were fired upon by the police, resulting in some deaths. The Komagata Maru incident was widely cited at the time to highlight discrepancies in Canadian immigration laws, and the Canadian government apologised for this incident about a century later. }} * {{see | name=Samukpota | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60623484 | lastedit=2022-12-08 | content=known as the "Green Mall," this village offers an extensive collection of palm trees plus other plants, gardening tools, yoga instructions and South Indian food. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Gurusaday Museum | alt=গুরুসদয় জাদুঘর ''Gurusadaẏ Jādughar'' | url=http://www.gurusadaymuseum.org/ | email=gsmuseum@rediffmail.com | address=P6, Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.455417 | long=88.303417 | directions=metro: {{station|Joka|3}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu–Su 10AM-5PM. Closed on M and national holidays | price=Students ₹2, adult Indians ₹10, foreigners ₹50 | wikidata=Q16934749 | lastedit=2022-10-08 | content=The outcome of a lifetime collection of traditional folk arts in Bengal by Sir Gurusaday Dutta. On his death in 1941, the collection was handed over to the Bratachari Society founded by Sir Gurusaday Dutta to preserve and protect Bengal folk arts. It was opened as a museum to the public with the help of the union government in 1963. It contains, among other fine handicrafts, terracotta panels, ''kantha'' (folk quilt work) and ''patas'' (hand-painted scrolls), notably of the Kalighat School. }} * {{see | name=Sabarna Sangrahashala | alt=সাবর্ণ সংগ্রহশালা ''Sābarṇa Saṁgrahaśālā'' | url= | email= | address=67/3 Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.48028 | long=88.31131 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24473550 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–noon and 5–7PM. Closed on Th | price=Free | image=Sabarna Sangrahashala 02.jpg | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=The only family museum of Kolkata. It was established in 2005 by the Sabarna Roy Choudhury Paribar Parishad and is a popular tourist attraction, especially for those who want to know more about the history of Kolkata. It is also a research institute in the making. The museum possesses some of the rarest ''Kabulatipatras'', documents and articles of historical importance besides several artifacts dating back to the 17th century. The museum is dedicated to students for creating an awareness of history, heritage, and culture of the land. Every year in the month of February, the museum organizes the International History and Heritage Exhibition which is only of its kind in Eastern India. }} * {{see | name=State Archaeological Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Satyen Roy Rd | lat=22.499389 | long=88.317972 | directions=metro: {{station|Behala Bazar|3}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM-4:30PM. Closed on M and Tu | price=₹5 | wikidata=Q7603021 | lastedit=2022-10-08 | content=The museum has a wide collection of antiques from the bronze age and various artefacts collected from excavations across West Bengal. }} ===Religious attractions=== [[File:BAPS Shree Swaminarayan Mandir- Pailan- West Bengal-DSC 0001 01.jpg|thumb|BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir]] [[File:Imambara of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah.jpg|thumb|Sibtainabad Imambara]] * {{see | name=BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bhasa no. 14, Diamond Harbour Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q115085006 | lastedit=2022-11-05 | content=A temple built by Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), the one who also built the famous Akshardham in [[Delhi]]. It has been said that Shri Swaminarayan (1781–1820) once visited the Kapil Muni Temple in [[Sagar Island]]. }} * {{see | name=Gopinath Jiu Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bawali | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-02 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple. Built-in 1794, the temple is rich in stucco works. }} * {{see | name=Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama | alt= | url= | email= | address=NSC Bose Rd, Narendrapur | lat=22.43796 | long=88.39907 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-19 | content=Like many other Ramakrishna Mission ashramas, it arranges several cultural programmes, not just religious ones. }} * {{see | name=Sibtainabad Imambara | alt= | url= | email= | address=P-34, Garden Reach Rd | lat=22.549257 | long=88.284175 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56688361 | lastedit=2024-12-03 | content=A major centre of [[Shi'a Islam]] in West Bengal. It was founded in 1864 by Wajid Ali Shah, former Nawab of [[Awadh]]. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan Shahi Masjid | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.502 | long=88.34584 | directions=crossing of Deshaparan Sasmal Rd and Prince Anwar Shah Rd | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-27 | content=Replica of [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]]'s Tipu Sultan Mosque built by the Waqf Committee at Tollygunge. }} ==Do== [[File:Aatchala Bari - Barisha - Kolkata 2011-10-03 030278.JPG|thumb|The remains of the at-chala house at Barisha]] * {{do | name=Durga Puja of Sabarna Roy Choudhury's family | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barisha | lat=22.479925 | long=88.306477 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-18 | content=Sabarna Roy Chowdhury's ''jagirdari'' family has been celebrating [[Durga Puja]] since 1610 in their ancestral home at Barisha. It is the second oldest ''bonedi'' (family) Durga Puja in West Bengal and possibly the oldest organised festival in Kolkata. }} * {{do | name=Asoka Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=905/2, Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.49379 | long=88.31631 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content= }} ===Clubs=== * {{do | name=Royal Calcutta Golf Club | alt= | url=http://www.rcgc.in/ | email= | address= | lat=22.493 | long=88.355 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2576004 | lastedit=2022-08-20 | content=The oldest golf club in India, established in 1829. Exclusively for members and guests. }} * {{do | name=Tollygunge Club | alt= | url=http://www.tollygungeclub.org | email= | address=Deshpran Sasmal Rd | lat=22.49328 | long=88.343266 | directions=metro: {{station|Mahanayak Uttam Kumar|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3349499 | lastedit=2022-08-20 | content=Exclusively for members and their guests. This club, founded in 1895, spread over a hundred-acre campus, is acknowledged as one of the top clubs in the world. It offers facilities for golf, tennis, squash, indoor and outdoor swimming, riding and amateur equestrian sports. }} ==Learn== [[File:Jadavpur_University_Gate_No._4.jpg|thumb|Gate No. 4, Jadavpur University]] * {{listing | name=Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science | alt=IACS | url=http://www.iacs.res.in/ | email= | address=Jadavpur | lat=22.4983 | long=88.3686 | directions=suburban: {{station|Jadavpur|sealdah south}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3347871 | lastedit=2023-01-05 | content=It was founded in 1876 by Dr. Mahendralal Sarkar and is the oldest research institute in India. Sir C. V. Raman worked here during 1907 to 1933 on various topics of physics making the discovery of the celebrated effect on the scattering of light in 1928, which bears his name and that brought many accolades including the Nobel Prize. }} * {{listing | name=Jadavpur University | alt= | url=http://www.jaduniv.edu.in/ | email= | address=Jadavpur | lat=22.5 | long=88.37 | directions=suburban: {{station|Jadavpur|sealdah south}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2579702 | lastedit=2022-08-30 | content=Considered one of the top engineering universities in West Bengal. It was established by the National Council of Education in 1906, with the objective of challenging the British grip over education by offering education to the masses 'on national lines and under national control'. It was given the status of a university in 1955. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Bijaygarh Bazar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jadavpur | lat=22.49063 | long=88.36345 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-25 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Charu Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=54/1 Charu Chandra Ave | lat=22.5073 | long=88.3457 | directions=suburban: {{station|Tollygunge|ccircular|sealdah south}}; metro: {{station|Rabindra Sarobar|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q55607138 | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=A private roadside market spread across {{convert|0.66|acre|m2}}. Vegetables, fruits, betel leaf, fish, meat, egg and grocery are available. }} * {{buy | name=Dakshinapan Shopping Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gariahat Rd S | lat=22.5089 | long=88.3666 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 11AM-7:30PM, and Mondays after 2PM, closed on Sunday | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=An excellent place to buy Indian handicrafts and artefacts. There are many Indian state government emporiums there, stocked with fixed price goods from all over the country. It also has clothes shops, eateries et al. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Harbour Rd | alt=DH Road | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=Diamond Harbour Rd is dotted on both sides with shops and eateries. Clothes, jewellery, electronic items, sports goods, books and footwear can be found in a multitude of stores all along the stretch from Taratala to Manton. The pavements of Behala are crowded with hawkers selling everything from toothpicks to bedsheets. }} * {{buy | name=Garia Bazar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-10-21 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Wood Square Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=169, NSC Bose Rd, Narendrapur | lat=22.43965 | long=88.39717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Wood square mall.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-17 | content= }} ===South City Mall=== [[File:SC Mall (2).JPG|thumb|right|South City Mall]] * {{buy | name=South City Mall | alt= | url=http://southcitymall.in/ | email= | address=375 Prince Anwar Shah Rd | lat=22.5014 | long=88.3616 | directions=Taltala Bus Stop | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7566832 | lastedit=2022-08-30 | content=It has a food court on the third floor with a number of restaurants. Most of the restaurants have bars. The restaurants are splurge/mid-range. Apart from restaurants at the edges, there is a big open space in the middle with seating arrangements. This area is served by KFC and other outlets serving food ranging from South Indian to kebabs. The open-space food outlets are comparatively less costly. Spencer's also has a food zone within their outlet in the basement. Car parking is available @ ₹25 per hour. }} ** {{drink | name=Cafe Mezzuna | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} ** {{drink | name=Chilli's | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content= }} ** {{do | name=Fame - South City | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ** {{eat | name=Flame & Grill | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shop No. 310, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 24228503 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Variety of Kababs served hot }} ** {{eat | name=Mainland China Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shop No. 313, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 64578361 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Innovative Chinese food. }} ** {{eat | name=Pizza Hut | alt= | url= | email= | address=3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 40653061 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ** {{eat | name=Subway | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shop no. 306, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 40643116 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ** {{eat | name=Zara The Tapas Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shop No. 309, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 32568055 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mediterranean food }} ==Eat and drink== * {{eat | name=Chakhna Shakna Punjabi Dhaba | alt=Flavours of Punjab. | url= | email= | address=259-B, Lake-Gardens | lat=22.50433 | long=88.355976 | directions=near Rammohan Mission School | phone=+91 9002107890, +91 9474453800 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-26 | content=Specialist in Punjabi, tandoori & North Indian cuisine. Free home food delivery or sit'n'dine service. }} * {{eat | name=Don Giovanni's | alt= | url= | email= | address=1/114 Jodhpur Park | lat=22.506483 | long=88.365547 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40007830, +91 33 24133243 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Supreme pizza, momos, fried rice chicken, burgers, Margherita pizza. }} * {{eat | name=Fiya the Zayka | alt= | url= | email=fiyathezayka@gmail.com | address=44/1 Adi Ganga, Bansdroni Post Office Rd | lat=22.47319 | long=88.36114 | directions=opposite of Surya Sen Metro | phone= | tollfree=+91 9748079337 | fax= | hours=3-10:30PM | price=₹25/₹100 | content=Cooking the Royal Biryani is the profession of Fiya the Zayka’s; they serve Mughlai food, developed under the patronage of the Mughal Kings and Queens using the spices of the Mughals' adopted Indian homeland. }} * {{eat | name=Hungry Tide | alt= | url= | email= | address=UBI Dhakuria Branch Bldg, 32/12A, Gariahat Rd S | lat=22.506213 | long=88.367347 | directions= | phone=+91 33 3099 1262 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-10PM | price= | lastedit=2018-03-16 | content=Chinese, Continental, North Indian, etc. }} * {{eat | name=Lokaahar | alt= | url= | email= | address=533, Jodhpur Park | lat=22.506783 | long=88.362167 | directions= | phone=+91 8420170529, +91 9007980125 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2018-04-13 | content=Tasty and varied Bengali dishes - mocha chingri, mochar ghonto, mutton kasha, dhokar dalna, posto bora et al. Must try bhetki fry. Special menu during the Poila Baisakh week, but beware of the crowds it attracts, because it is a small homely place. They also serve Continental, Chinese and Thai dishes. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Suresh Mistanna Bhander | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shop 7, Sarat Ghosh Garden Rd, Dhakuria | lat=22.509213 | long=88.369167 | directions= | phone=+91 9836876365 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-03-16 | content=All sorts of sweetmeat with unforgettable taste }} * {{eat | name=Tandoor Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=28/4 Gariahat Rd S | lat=22.506613 | long=88.367347 | directions=near Jodhpur Park Post Office | phone=+91 33 40007588, +91 9836370051, +91 9831458972, +91 9830006647 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=North Indian and Chinese cuisine. Specialities - mocktails, shawarma, murgh musallam, masala kulcha, keema naan, murg reshmi kabab, manchow soup. Try their mixed kabab plate. Hard drinks served. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} * {{sleep | name=Hotel East Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.4189 | long=88.2845 | directions= | phone=+91 6450 4025, +91 33 2497 9007, +91 9230613727 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Artland | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/20162/ | email= | address=Joka | lat=22.4375 | long=88.2926 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sadhana Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jodhpur Park | lat=22.50312 | long=88.36618 | directions= | phone=+91 70440 83334 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-10 | content=The first floor has four double-bed rooms, all air-conditioned. The twin bathrooms at both sides are fine, though not very neat, which is what you can expect in a budget hotel. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=New Punjabi Hotel & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=394 Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.50124 | long=88.31804 | directions= | phone=+91 9874661256 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Ibiza | alt=The Fern Resort & Spa | url=https://www.fernhotels.com/ | email=info.tf.ibiza@fernhotels.com | address=Diamond Harbour Rd | lat=22.351141 | long=88.267117 | directions= | phone=+91 33 24809009, +91 33 24709929, +91 33 24809000, +91 33 24709928 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Price starts from ₹4,720 | wikidata=Q111861615 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=110 rooms, halls, conference rooms, swimming pool and many other indoor facilities. Arrangements for weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties, conferences, corporate award shows and dinner, dealer’s meet, training sessions etc. Lunch also available for non-boarders. }} ==Connect== ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Behala police station | lat=22.50349 | long=88.31900 | phone=+91 33 23967350 }} * {{listing | name=Charu Market police station | lat=22.50464 | long=88.34489 | phone=+91 33 24249900 }} * {{listing | name=Jadavpur police station | lat=22.50263 | long=88.36772 | phone=+91 33 24730146 }} {{geo|22.421|88.330|zoom=11}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} ropdyj65y10e1vhto3grpnlghifyycq 0 127756 5090744 5031710 2025-07-10T12:27:43Z Sbb1413 2217354 Added listing for Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata 5090744 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dakshineswar Mandir pagebanner.JPG|pgname=Northern Suburbs}} The '''Northern Suburbs''' (উত্তর শহরতলি ''Uttar Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the large urbanised industrial area to the north of the city. It is home to the city's sole international airport, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and several other temples and heritage sites. It is also an important food and leisure hub in West Bengal, having a lot of international fast-food chains and shopping malls. ==Understand== ===History=== In the 17th century, Dutch merchants set up a residence at Baranagar and made it a large business hub at that time, and the centre of the jute industry. SInce then, the Northern Suburbs became a major industrial centre for the manufacture of agricultural and industrial machinery, chemicals, castor oil, several jute products, matches, and numerous cotton-processing companies. Other than industry, the suburbs also had a military history. The [[British Raj]] had a major arsenal at Dum Dum which manufactured, among other things, expanding bullets which are still sometimes called "dum-dum bullets". They were later banned in warfare by the Hague Convention as being "too inhumane". Dum Dum, along with [[Barrackpore]], was a major centre of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is rumoured that the paper cartridges provided to Indian soldiers were laced with pig lard or cow fat, resulting to the revolt of the soldiers in Dum Dum Cantonment. However, the importance of Dum Dum in military declined by the late 1920s when Dum Dum Cantonment was closed down and became a municipality. After the partition of India in 1947, the suburban areas began teeming with millions of refugees from East Pakistan, and most of them were converted into planned townships. Due to the rise of trade unionism in the 1970s and 80s, the industry of West Bengal, including the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, faced decline. ===Orientation=== [[File:Night lifestyle@lake town,Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Nighttime view of Lake Town, one of the former refugee colonies.]] The Northern Suburbs consists of numerous suburbs, and are covered by seven urban local bodies: Baranagar, Bidhannagar (BMC), Dum Dum, Kamarhati, Kolkata (KMC), North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum. Locals rarely refer to these municipalities, but rather to one of dozens of suburbs contained in this district. Here are some of those well-known ones: * '''Baranagar''' (বরাহনগর ''Barāhanagar'' or বরানগর ''Barānagar'') * '''Belgharia''' (বেলঘরিয়া ''Belghariẏā'') * '''Dakshineswar''' (দক্ষিণেশ্বর ''Dakṣiṇeśbar'') — nicknamed as the "twin of [[Varanasi]]" and home to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the most important religious shrines for Hindus. People from all over the world visit the temple every day in numbers. Along with the Kali temple, there are other important points of interest, like the Adyapeath temple and Sarada Math. * '''Dum Dum''' (দমদম ''Damdam'') — a major transport hub of Kolkata, alongside [[Howrah]], [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] and [[Kolkata/North|Sealdah]], and home to the city's only international airport. Dum Dum Junction is served by local trains from different locations, and is connected with metro and bus routes. This area covers Dum Dum, North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum municipalities. Certain areas near Salt Lake were once refugee colonies that hosted immigrants from East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). These areas now spot a brighter look. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.63|88.4|width=580|height=500|zoom=13|name=Map of the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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The Northern Suburbs have a well transport chain for travelling, especially near Dakshineswar, Dum Dum, and the VIP Road area. ===By train=== The Northern Suburbs are best visited by local trains. They have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. Local trains to North Suburban stations and beyond depart from Sealdah North and Main terminals. Sealdah&ndash;Ranaghat line is the main line of this district. A branch line runs from {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Dum Dum|city=kolkata|chord link|eastern}}|wikidata=Q15215337}} to [[Bangaon]]. The '''Calcutta Chord Link Line''' {{rint|kolkata|chord}} runs from Dum Dum to [[Dankuni]], on Howrah&ndash;Bardhaman Chord line. ===By metro=== Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} runs along the CC Link Line, with stops at Dum Dum, Noapara, Baranagar, and Dakshineswar. Line {{rint|kolkata|4}} is under construction, and will connect Noapara to the airport. ===By car=== The Northern Suburbs have several highways that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal. The main roads to enter the area from inner Kolkata include Barrackpore Trunk Road (BT Road, SH 1), Jessore Road, and VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani). Belghoria Expressway connects the airport area to the rest of West Bengal. ===By ferry=== * {{go | name=Dakshineswar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65362 | long=88.35749 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=You can enjoy a 20-30 minutes boating ride from Dakshineswar to Belur Math. Sunset on the Hooghly river behind Vivekananda Setu from the bank is superb. In winter you will enjoy the most with the set of dusk and chill wind blowing over your body. }} * {{go | name=Kuthi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.63514 | long=88.36263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A palace on the banks of river Hooghly, established by Dutch merchants in the 17th century, as '''Dutch Kuthi''', one of the heritage sites of Kolkata. The place was named "Kuthi Ghat" after the palace. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Basri Shah Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13059169 | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The oldest mosque in Kolkata, dating back to 1804. }} * {{see | name=Belgachia Villa | alt=Paikpara Rajbari | url= | email= | address=64B, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Belgachia | lat=22.60647 | long=88.38615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28978887 | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=A large garden house. Prince Dwarkanath Tagore bought it from an Italian around 1823. In 1846, when he died in England it was discovered that he was heavily in debt due to his extravagant spending. To pay off his debts, his son Debendranath sold Belgachia Villa and other properties. }} * {{see | name=Clive's House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rastraguru Ave, Nagerbazar | lat=22.626404 | long=88.416153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56152584 | lastedit=2022-09-07 | content=A rather mysterious building, it is considered the first pucca brick and cement building in the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, possibly built by the Portuguese. What is known is that it was used by British soldiers when they first entered the country. Later, Robert Clive took the area over, renovated it, added a floor to the single-storey building, and made it his country house around 1757-60. The house is located on raised ground in otherwise flat surroundings. When Clive House was excavated, a variety of artefacts were recovered, including coins, terracotta figures, sculptures, pottery and intelligence on a Portuguese fort. The articles found could be of the Sena period or may alternatively have links with the ancient [[Chandraketugarh]] civilisation. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Time Zone Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Lake Town | lat=22.60012 | long=88.40668 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=KOLKATA TIME ZONE.JPG | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=A one-third sized replica of the iconic Big Ben in [[London]]. The tower is 30 metres in height, while Big Ben in London is 96 metres. It has ten floors and the four clock faces are each 3.6 metres in diameter, compared to 7 metres in the original. }} ===Ashrams=== [[File:Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar.jpg|thumb|Baranagar Math]] * {{see | name=Alambazar Math | alt= | url=http://alambazarmath.azurewebsites.net/ | email= | address= | lat=22.6473 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alambazar Math | wikidata=Q17001290 | content=Second monastery of Ramakrishna Order. Swami Vivekananda first put up here after coming back from abroad. }} * {{see | name=Baranagar Math | alt= | url=http://www.rkmbaranagar.org | email= | address= | lat=22.631861 | long=88.3675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Baranagar Math | wikidata=Q14947352 | content=First monastery of Ramakrishna Order. After the death of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and some of his other disciples permanently started to live here. Here, they decided to establish Belur Math for the first time. }} * {{see | name=Sri Sarada Math | alt= | url=http://www.srisaradamath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66113 | long=88.35742 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564 5411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=Daily ritual worships are performed here by the nuns. The birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and other personalities are celebrated here, besides the Hindu festivals. Religious discourse and lectures are also done regularly. }} * {{see | name=Udyan Bati | alt=উদ্যানবাটী, Garden House | url= | email= | address=90, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.626267 | long=88.370467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16345231 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A monastery where Sri Ramakrishna lived from 1885 till his death in 1886. ''Kalpataru Utsav'' is celebrated every year at 1 January. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg|thumb|Kripamayee Kali Temple]] * {{see | name=Adyapeath Temple | alt= | url=http://www.adyapeath.com/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66025 | long=88.36335 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564-6999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=A three-pinnacled temple dedicated to goddess Adya, and the centre of a major religious controversy. It is said that Annada Thakur received a divine command that goddess Adya was buried under the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh#Eden Gardens|Eden Gardens]] for thousands of years. He went there in 1928 and allegedly saw the statue of the goddess coming out from the ground. He consecrated the statue as the idol of this temple. But archaeologist Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay found that the statue was sculpted recently and not thousands of years ago, as Annada Thakur claimed. Later, many people got enraged to Thakur's deception, and the devotees of the goddess decided to immerse the statue to the Ganges to prevent further fury. The sanctum of the temple remained void till the consecration of the present idol. }} * {{see | name=Kacher Mandir | alt=Glass Temple | url= | email= | address=1, Pran Krishna Saha Ln | lat=22.639 | long=88.3623 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kripamayee Kali Temple | alt=Joy Mitra Kalibari | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.637 | long=88.363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kripamayee Kali Temple | image=Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg | wikidata=Q6437106 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple of Goddess Kali worshipped as Kripamayee (she who is merciful). There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Mahamilan Math | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/7, PWD Road | lat=22.6518 | long=88.3717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Annapurna Temple and the Omkarnath Temple are two attractions here. }} * {{see | name=Parshwanath Jain Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=26, Khudiram Bose Sarani | lat=22.6057 | long=88.3828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67633842 | lastedit=2022-10-14 | content=Considered one of the most sacred Jain temples of worship in Kolkata. The temple also has a dharamshala equipped with modern facilities. }} * {{see | name=Pathbari Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6415 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A place where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu set his foot on his way to [[Puri]] in the early 16th century. }} ====Dakshineswar Temple Complex==== [[File:Dakshineshwar Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Dakshineswar Kali Temple]] [[File:Dakshineswar temple - panoramio.jpg|thumb|12 Shiva temples]] * {{see | name=Dakshineswar Kali Temple | alt= | url=http://www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.655 | long=88.357778 | directions=matro: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|blue}}, suburban: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|chord}}. Both stations are connected to the temple with about {{m|330}} long skywalk, which provides a good view of the surroundings. | phone=+91 33 2564-5222 | tollfree= | hours=6:00AM-12:30PM and 3:00PM-8:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q1157765 | lastedit=2022-07-15 | content=A huge temple complex with the famous Hindu ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here as Ma Bhavatarini. The temple complex was inaugurated by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the head and only priest of this temple from 1856 to 1886. He spent most of his life in the ''nahabat khānā'' (corruption of ''naubat xānā'', meaning "drum house") chamber of the temple complex. After Ramakrishna's death, the temple complex had been taken over by the then-Government of Bengal, later the Government of West Bengal. It attracts thousands of worshipers around the year, especially on the day of Shyama Puja, Shiva Chaturdashi, Poyla Boishakh, Akshaya Tritiya, New Year's Day and Kalpataru Utsava. Beside the main temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Hooghly River and a bathing ghat. Because of the temple's importance and the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, flowing by, it is also regarded as a twin of [[Varanasi]] by the locals. }} * {{see | name=Panchavati | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65638 | long=88.35716 | directions=north of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=A complex of trees consisting of banyan (''vaṭa''), peepal (''ashvattha''), neem (''nimba''), amla (''āmlakī'') and wood apple (''bilva'') trees. This is where Ramakrishna performed his advaitic sādhanā in 1865. }} * {{see | name=Rani Rashmoni Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65554 | long=88.35738 | directions=next to the gate of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=The shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple. }} ===Bridges=== * {{marker|type=see|name=Nivedita Setu|wikidata=Q7041769}} and {{marker|type=see|name=Vivekananda Setu|wikidata=Q844900}} — Two bridges across the Hooghly River, {{m|50}} apart. Vivekenanda Setu is a {{m|880}} long rail-cum-road bridge, built in 1932 as Willingdon Bridge and later renamed after Swami Vivekananda. Nivedita Setu is a newer cable-stayed bridge, named after the female disciple of Swami Vivekananda. ==Do== [[File:BRkM-6.jpg|thumb|Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission]] * {{do | name=Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission | alt=BRKM | url=http://rkmbaranagore.org | email=brkmreunion@gmail.com | address=37, Gopal Lal Tagore Rd, Baranagar | lat=22.6345 | long=88.370436 | directions= | phone=+91-33-2556-3817 | tollfree= | fax=+91-33-2556-3817 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19882251 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by Yogindranath Tagore (the disciple of Swami Brahmananda) in 1912. This institution celebrates many cultural programmes throughout the year. Many people come to watch those cultural events every year. }} * {{do | name=Narayani Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=15, Surya Sen Rd | lat=22.6491 | long=88.3635 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sinthee More Ground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=Hosts various local events throughout the year, including "Ajanta Circus" every winter. }} * {{do | name=Sonali Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sreebhumi Sporting Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lake Town | lat=22.59904 | long=88.40285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content=The club holds some of the best Durga Puja pandals in Greater Kolkata every year, with a huge crowd gathering during the festive season. }} ==Learn== [[File:Isical01.jpg|thumb|Indian Statistical Institute]] * {{listing | name=Indian Statistical Institute | alt=ISI | url=http://www.isical.ac.in/ | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.6482 | long=88.3768 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3105568 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by the statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1932, the institute is often considered one of the foremost centres in the world for training and research in statistics. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Chandrani Pearls | alt= | url= | email= | address=153/1, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3779 | directions={{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 33 25789025 | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM - 9PM | price= | content=Ornaments of pearls. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.diamondplaza.in/ | email= | address=68, Jessore Rd, Satgachi | lat=22.61551 | long=88.41209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Diamond plaza.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Nagerbazar | alt=নাগেরবাজার ''Nāgerbājār'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.622984 | long=88.414267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15260775 | lastedit=2025-01-03 | content=A major shopping centre in Dum Dum, at the crossroads of Dum Dum Rd and Jessore Rd. }} * {{buy | name=Saltee Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jessore Rd | lat=22.62485 | long=88.41729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Saltee Plaza - Jessore Road - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2017-08-08 4000.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ==Eat and drink== Major food chains include '''Wow Momo''' (140, BT Rd). Major cafe chains include '''Cafe Coffee Day''' (BT Rd). You also can get lassi in several sweets shops, in '''Anandamayee Sweets''' many kinds of lassi like mango, dahi etc. are available. In the Alambazar area, you could get lassi in a sweet shop. In the Dunlop area, near Baranagar railway station and Sonali cinema hall, several fruit juice shops are available. You can also visit "Dunlop Coffee House" for coffee. * {{eat | name=Anandamayee Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=209, BT Rd | lat=22.6412 | long=88.3778 | directions= | phone=+91 2577 0120 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content=Traditional Bengal sweets, curd (in Bengali "doi"), ice cream, dhokla, lassi. }} * {{eat | name=The Cric World | alt= | url= | email= | address=44/51, BT Rd | lat=22.6339 | long=88.3785 | directions= | phone=+91 9830415213 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 11PM | price= | content=Multi-cuisine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Dhaka Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6515 | long=88.3777 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903968610 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–10:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Food Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.65564 | long=88.35887 | directions=close to the Kali Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-02-06 | content=Vegetarian meals such as chole bhature. }} * {{eat | name=Food Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903943648 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=269/2, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=near Baranagar Police Station | phone=+91 9831736332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Haldiram's Confectioners | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Baranagar Road railway station | phone=+91 33 25780815 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-2PM & 5-9PM| price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62978 | long=88.42090 | directions= | phone=+91 83350 55881 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mahua | alt=মহুয়া ''Mahuẏā'' | url= | email= | address=18/3, KC Ghosh Rd | lat=22.63041 | long=88.38403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Dahi: ₹260 per kg | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 40-year-old shop is known for creamy dahi (দই ''dai''), and it often runs out of dahi every day. }} * {{eat | name=New Sher-e-Punjab Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=131, BT Rd | lat=22.6524 | long=88.3774 | directions=near Indian Statistical Institute | phone=+91 7890101313 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Debalay Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, TN Mukherjee Rd, Dakshineswar | lat=22.65593 | long=88.35908 | directions= | phone=+91 70441 74570 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel Shivangan | alt= | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/fabhotel-shivangan.html | email= | address=VIP Rd, Baguiati | lat=22.6132 | long=88.4294 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2576 2711 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900-2,800 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Fern Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=204, MAR, Rajarhat | lat=22.62192 | long=88.44613 | directions= | phone=+91 70444 77444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,000-4,000 | image=Fern Residency - Hotel - 204 Major Arterial Road - Rajarhat - Kolkata 2017-08-08 3934.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Airport City | alt= | url=http://www.airportcityhotel.in/ | email= | address=259, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65416 | long=88.43538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 3131 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-3,700 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ethnotel | alt= | url=http://ethnotel.in | email= | address=71, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65075 | long=88.43674 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7101 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express | alt= | url= | email= | address=28, Jessore Rd | lat=22.64188 | long=88.43189 | directions= | phone=+91 62899 01724 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Airways | alt= | url= | email= | address=Motilal Colony, Rajbari | lat=22.6467 | long=88.4341 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 2106 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Gateway Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6419 | long=88.4307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2511 8324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=O2 Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Kaikhali| lat=22.6327 | long=88.4343 | directions= | phone= +91 33 25250078, +91 33 25250113 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Orbit Hotel | alt= | url=https://hotelorbit.co.in/ | email= | address=RB 29, VIP Rd, Raghunathpur | lat=22.62089 | long=88.432 | directions= | phone=+91 85840 14256 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | image=Orbit Hotel - RB 29 - VIP Road - Raghunathpur - Kolkata 2017-05-10 7599.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sher-e-Punjab | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Jessore Rd | lat=22.6774 | long=88.4463 | directions= | phone= +91 33 2567 2848, +91 90888 60003 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | content=A hotel-cum-restaurant with quality Punjabi dhaba food. Chinese and Thai dishes are also available. AC or open-air seating. Drinks served. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/hojo/rajarhat-india/howard-johnson-kolkata/overview | email= | address=Chinar Park | lat=22.623827 | long=88.4425 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6655 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600 | wikidata=Q111402425 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== The Northern Suburbs are one of the most polluted areas of Kolkata. A lot of vehicles travel through Birati and Dunlop crossings; therefore the area is very polluted. Use a mask and a handkerchief for this area. ==Cope== ===Fire stations=== * {{listing | name=Baranagar Fire Station | address=282, Deshpran Shasmal Ave | lat=22.6522 | long=88.3725 | phone=+91 33 25102102 }} ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Airport Police Station | address= | lat=22.64657 | long=88.43668 | phone=+91 33 253193000 }} * {{listing | name=Baranagar Police Station | address=47, BT Rd | lat=22.6362 | long=88.3784 | phone=+91 33 25319300 |lastedit=2023-05-21 }} * {{listing | name=Chitpur Police Station | address=19, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.61853 | long=88.37316 | phone=+91 33 25566141 }} * {{listing | name=Dum Dum Police Station | phone=+91 33 25514167 }} ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Cossipore Head Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.61892 | long=88.37213 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content= }} {{isPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|22.62|88.42|zoom=13}} 2wirtjcknueyp31mz7wmhst0guar5pm 5090745 5090744 2025-07-10T12:28:39Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Sleep */ 5090745 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dakshineswar Mandir pagebanner.JPG|pgname=Northern Suburbs}} The '''Northern Suburbs''' (উত্তর শহরতলি ''Uttar Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the large urbanised industrial area to the north of the city. It is home to the city's sole international airport, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and several other temples and heritage sites. It is also an important food and leisure hub in West Bengal, having a lot of international fast-food chains and shopping malls. ==Understand== ===History=== In the 17th century, Dutch merchants set up a residence at Baranagar and made it a large business hub at that time, and the centre of the jute industry. SInce then, the Northern Suburbs became a major industrial centre for the manufacture of agricultural and industrial machinery, chemicals, castor oil, several jute products, matches, and numerous cotton-processing companies. Other than industry, the suburbs also had a military history. The [[British Raj]] had a major arsenal at Dum Dum which manufactured, among other things, expanding bullets which are still sometimes called "dum-dum bullets". They were later banned in warfare by the Hague Convention as being "too inhumane". Dum Dum, along with [[Barrackpore]], was a major centre of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is rumoured that the paper cartridges provided to Indian soldiers were laced with pig lard or cow fat, resulting to the revolt of the soldiers in Dum Dum Cantonment. However, the importance of Dum Dum in military declined by the late 1920s when Dum Dum Cantonment was closed down and became a municipality. After the partition of India in 1947, the suburban areas began teeming with millions of refugees from East Pakistan, and most of them were converted into planned townships. Due to the rise of trade unionism in the 1970s and 80s, the industry of West Bengal, including the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, faced decline. ===Orientation=== [[File:Night lifestyle@lake town,Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Nighttime view of Lake Town, one of the former refugee colonies.]] The Northern Suburbs consists of numerous suburbs, and are covered by seven urban local bodies: Baranagar, Bidhannagar (BMC), Dum Dum, Kamarhati, Kolkata (KMC), North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum. Locals rarely refer to these municipalities, but rather to one of dozens of suburbs contained in this district. Here are some of those well-known ones: * '''Baranagar''' (বরাহনগর ''Barāhanagar'' or বরানগর ''Barānagar'') * '''Belgharia''' (বেলঘরিয়া ''Belghariẏā'') * '''Dakshineswar''' (দক্ষিণেশ্বর ''Dakṣiṇeśbar'') — nicknamed as the "twin of [[Varanasi]]" and home to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the most important religious shrines for Hindus. People from all over the world visit the temple every day in numbers. Along with the Kali temple, there are other important points of interest, like the Adyapeath temple and Sarada Math. * '''Dum Dum''' (দমদম ''Damdam'') — a major transport hub of Kolkata, alongside [[Howrah]], [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] and [[Kolkata/North|Sealdah]], and home to the city's only international airport. Dum Dum Junction is served by local trains from different locations, and is connected with metro and bus routes. This area covers Dum Dum, North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum municipalities. Certain areas near Salt Lake were once refugee colonies that hosted immigrants from East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). These areas now spot a brighter look. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.63|88.4|width=580|height=500|zoom=13|name=Map of the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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The Northern Suburbs have a well transport chain for travelling, especially near Dakshineswar, Dum Dum, and the VIP Road area. ===By train=== The Northern Suburbs are best visited by local trains. They have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. Local trains to North Suburban stations and beyond depart from Sealdah North and Main terminals. Sealdah&ndash;Ranaghat line is the main line of this district. A branch line runs from {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Dum Dum|city=kolkata|chord link|eastern}}|wikidata=Q15215337}} to [[Bangaon]]. The '''Calcutta Chord Link Line''' {{rint|kolkata|chord}} runs from Dum Dum to [[Dankuni]], on Howrah&ndash;Bardhaman Chord line. ===By metro=== Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} runs along the CC Link Line, with stops at Dum Dum, Noapara, Baranagar, and Dakshineswar. Line {{rint|kolkata|4}} is under construction, and will connect Noapara to the airport. ===By car=== The Northern Suburbs have several highways that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal. The main roads to enter the area from inner Kolkata include Barrackpore Trunk Road (BT Road, SH 1), Jessore Road, and VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani). Belghoria Expressway connects the airport area to the rest of West Bengal. ===By ferry=== * {{go | name=Dakshineswar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65362 | long=88.35749 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=You can enjoy a 20-30 minutes boating ride from Dakshineswar to Belur Math. Sunset on the Hooghly river behind Vivekananda Setu from the bank is superb. In winter you will enjoy the most with the set of dusk and chill wind blowing over your body. }} * {{go | name=Kuthi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.63514 | long=88.36263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A palace on the banks of river Hooghly, established by Dutch merchants in the 17th century, as '''Dutch Kuthi''', one of the heritage sites of Kolkata. The place was named "Kuthi Ghat" after the palace. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Basri Shah Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13059169 | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The oldest mosque in Kolkata, dating back to 1804. }} * {{see | name=Belgachia Villa | alt=Paikpara Rajbari | url= | email= | address=64B, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Belgachia | lat=22.60647 | long=88.38615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28978887 | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=A large garden house. Prince Dwarkanath Tagore bought it from an Italian around 1823. In 1846, when he died in England it was discovered that he was heavily in debt due to his extravagant spending. To pay off his debts, his son Debendranath sold Belgachia Villa and other properties. }} * {{see | name=Clive's House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rastraguru Ave, Nagerbazar | lat=22.626404 | long=88.416153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56152584 | lastedit=2022-09-07 | content=A rather mysterious building, it is considered the first pucca brick and cement building in the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, possibly built by the Portuguese. What is known is that it was used by British soldiers when they first entered the country. Later, Robert Clive took the area over, renovated it, added a floor to the single-storey building, and made it his country house around 1757-60. The house is located on raised ground in otherwise flat surroundings. When Clive House was excavated, a variety of artefacts were recovered, including coins, terracotta figures, sculptures, pottery and intelligence on a Portuguese fort. The articles found could be of the Sena period or may alternatively have links with the ancient [[Chandraketugarh]] civilisation. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Time Zone Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Lake Town | lat=22.60012 | long=88.40668 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=KOLKATA TIME ZONE.JPG | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=A one-third sized replica of the iconic Big Ben in [[London]]. The tower is 30 metres in height, while Big Ben in London is 96 metres. It has ten floors and the four clock faces are each 3.6 metres in diameter, compared to 7 metres in the original. }} ===Ashrams=== [[File:Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar.jpg|thumb|Baranagar Math]] * {{see | name=Alambazar Math | alt= | url=http://alambazarmath.azurewebsites.net/ | email= | address= | lat=22.6473 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alambazar Math | wikidata=Q17001290 | content=Second monastery of Ramakrishna Order. Swami Vivekananda first put up here after coming back from abroad. }} * {{see | name=Baranagar Math | alt= | url=http://www.rkmbaranagar.org | email= | address= | lat=22.631861 | long=88.3675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Baranagar Math | wikidata=Q14947352 | content=First monastery of Ramakrishna Order. After the death of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and some of his other disciples permanently started to live here. Here, they decided to establish Belur Math for the first time. }} * {{see | name=Sri Sarada Math | alt= | url=http://www.srisaradamath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66113 | long=88.35742 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564 5411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=Daily ritual worships are performed here by the nuns. The birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and other personalities are celebrated here, besides the Hindu festivals. Religious discourse and lectures are also done regularly. }} * {{see | name=Udyan Bati | alt=উদ্যানবাটী, Garden House | url= | email= | address=90, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.626267 | long=88.370467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16345231 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A monastery where Sri Ramakrishna lived from 1885 till his death in 1886. ''Kalpataru Utsav'' is celebrated every year at 1 January. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg|thumb|Kripamayee Kali Temple]] * {{see | name=Adyapeath Temple | alt= | url=http://www.adyapeath.com/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66025 | long=88.36335 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564-6999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=A three-pinnacled temple dedicated to goddess Adya, and the centre of a major religious controversy. It is said that Annada Thakur received a divine command that goddess Adya was buried under the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh#Eden Gardens|Eden Gardens]] for thousands of years. He went there in 1928 and allegedly saw the statue of the goddess coming out from the ground. He consecrated the statue as the idol of this temple. But archaeologist Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay found that the statue was sculpted recently and not thousands of years ago, as Annada Thakur claimed. Later, many people got enraged to Thakur's deception, and the devotees of the goddess decided to immerse the statue to the Ganges to prevent further fury. The sanctum of the temple remained void till the consecration of the present idol. }} * {{see | name=Kacher Mandir | alt=Glass Temple | url= | email= | address=1, Pran Krishna Saha Ln | lat=22.639 | long=88.3623 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kripamayee Kali Temple | alt=Joy Mitra Kalibari | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.637 | long=88.363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kripamayee Kali Temple | image=Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg | wikidata=Q6437106 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple of Goddess Kali worshipped as Kripamayee (she who is merciful). There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Mahamilan Math | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/7, PWD Road | lat=22.6518 | long=88.3717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Annapurna Temple and the Omkarnath Temple are two attractions here. }} * {{see | name=Parshwanath Jain Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=26, Khudiram Bose Sarani | lat=22.6057 | long=88.3828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67633842 | lastedit=2022-10-14 | content=Considered one of the most sacred Jain temples of worship in Kolkata. The temple also has a dharamshala equipped with modern facilities. }} * {{see | name=Pathbari Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6415 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A place where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu set his foot on his way to [[Puri]] in the early 16th century. }} ====Dakshineswar Temple Complex==== [[File:Dakshineshwar Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Dakshineswar Kali Temple]] [[File:Dakshineswar temple - panoramio.jpg|thumb|12 Shiva temples]] * {{see | name=Dakshineswar Kali Temple | alt= | url=http://www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.655 | long=88.357778 | directions=matro: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|blue}}, suburban: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|chord}}. Both stations are connected to the temple with about {{m|330}} long skywalk, which provides a good view of the surroundings. | phone=+91 33 2564-5222 | tollfree= | hours=6:00AM-12:30PM and 3:00PM-8:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q1157765 | lastedit=2022-07-15 | content=A huge temple complex with the famous Hindu ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here as Ma Bhavatarini. The temple complex was inaugurated by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the head and only priest of this temple from 1856 to 1886. He spent most of his life in the ''nahabat khānā'' (corruption of ''naubat xānā'', meaning "drum house") chamber of the temple complex. After Ramakrishna's death, the temple complex had been taken over by the then-Government of Bengal, later the Government of West Bengal. It attracts thousands of worshipers around the year, especially on the day of Shyama Puja, Shiva Chaturdashi, Poyla Boishakh, Akshaya Tritiya, New Year's Day and Kalpataru Utsava. Beside the main temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Hooghly River and a bathing ghat. Because of the temple's importance and the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, flowing by, it is also regarded as a twin of [[Varanasi]] by the locals. }} * {{see | name=Panchavati | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65638 | long=88.35716 | directions=north of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=A complex of trees consisting of banyan (''vaṭa''), peepal (''ashvattha''), neem (''nimba''), amla (''āmlakī'') and wood apple (''bilva'') trees. This is where Ramakrishna performed his advaitic sādhanā in 1865. }} * {{see | name=Rani Rashmoni Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65554 | long=88.35738 | directions=next to the gate of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=The shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple. }} ===Bridges=== * {{marker|type=see|name=Nivedita Setu|wikidata=Q7041769}} and {{marker|type=see|name=Vivekananda Setu|wikidata=Q844900}} — Two bridges across the Hooghly River, {{m|50}} apart. Vivekenanda Setu is a {{m|880}} long rail-cum-road bridge, built in 1932 as Willingdon Bridge and later renamed after Swami Vivekananda. Nivedita Setu is a newer cable-stayed bridge, named after the female disciple of Swami Vivekananda. ==Do== [[File:BRkM-6.jpg|thumb|Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission]] * {{do | name=Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission | alt=BRKM | url=http://rkmbaranagore.org | email=brkmreunion@gmail.com | address=37, Gopal Lal Tagore Rd, Baranagar | lat=22.6345 | long=88.370436 | directions= | phone=+91-33-2556-3817 | tollfree= | fax=+91-33-2556-3817 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19882251 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by Yogindranath Tagore (the disciple of Swami Brahmananda) in 1912. This institution celebrates many cultural programmes throughout the year. Many people come to watch those cultural events every year. }} * {{do | name=Narayani Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=15, Surya Sen Rd | lat=22.6491 | long=88.3635 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sinthee More Ground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=Hosts various local events throughout the year, including "Ajanta Circus" every winter. }} * {{do | name=Sonali Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sreebhumi Sporting Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lake Town | lat=22.59904 | long=88.40285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content=The club holds some of the best Durga Puja pandals in Greater Kolkata every year, with a huge crowd gathering during the festive season. }} ==Learn== [[File:Isical01.jpg|thumb|Indian Statistical Institute]] * {{listing | name=Indian Statistical Institute | alt=ISI | url=http://www.isical.ac.in/ | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.6482 | long=88.3768 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3105568 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by the statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1932, the institute is often considered one of the foremost centres in the world for training and research in statistics. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Chandrani Pearls | alt= | url= | email= | address=153/1, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3779 | directions={{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 33 25789025 | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM - 9PM | price= | content=Ornaments of pearls. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.diamondplaza.in/ | email= | address=68, Jessore Rd, Satgachi | lat=22.61551 | long=88.41209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Diamond plaza.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Nagerbazar | alt=নাগেরবাজার ''Nāgerbājār'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.622984 | long=88.414267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15260775 | lastedit=2025-01-03 | content=A major shopping centre in Dum Dum, at the crossroads of Dum Dum Rd and Jessore Rd. }} * {{buy | name=Saltee Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jessore Rd | lat=22.62485 | long=88.41729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Saltee Plaza - Jessore Road - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2017-08-08 4000.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ==Eat and drink== Major food chains include '''Wow Momo''' (140, BT Rd). Major cafe chains include '''Cafe Coffee Day''' (BT Rd). You also can get lassi in several sweets shops, in '''Anandamayee Sweets''' many kinds of lassi like mango, dahi etc. are available. In the Alambazar area, you could get lassi in a sweet shop. In the Dunlop area, near Baranagar railway station and Sonali cinema hall, several fruit juice shops are available. You can also visit "Dunlop Coffee House" for coffee. * {{eat | name=Anandamayee Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=209, BT Rd | lat=22.6412 | long=88.3778 | directions= | phone=+91 2577 0120 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content=Traditional Bengal sweets, curd (in Bengali "doi"), ice cream, dhokla, lassi. }} * {{eat | name=The Cric World | alt= | url= | email= | address=44/51, BT Rd | lat=22.6339 | long=88.3785 | directions= | phone=+91 9830415213 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 11PM | price= | content=Multi-cuisine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Dhaka Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6515 | long=88.3777 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903968610 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–10:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Food Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.65564 | long=88.35887 | directions=close to the Kali Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-02-06 | content=Vegetarian meals such as chole bhature. }} * {{eat | name=Food Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903943648 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=269/2, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=near Baranagar Police Station | phone=+91 9831736332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Haldiram's Confectioners | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Baranagar Road railway station | phone=+91 33 25780815 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-2PM & 5-9PM| price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62978 | long=88.42090 | directions= | phone=+91 83350 55881 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mahua | alt=মহুয়া ''Mahuẏā'' | url= | email= | address=18/3, KC Ghosh Rd | lat=22.63041 | long=88.38403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Dahi: ₹260 per kg | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 40-year-old shop is known for creamy dahi (দই ''dai''), and it often runs out of dahi every day. }} * {{eat | name=New Sher-e-Punjab Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=131, BT Rd | lat=22.6524 | long=88.3774 | directions=near Indian Statistical Institute | phone=+91 7890101313 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Debalay Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, TN Mukherjee Rd, Dakshineswar | lat=22.65593 | long=88.35908 | directions= | phone=+91 70441 74570 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel Shivangan | alt= | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/fabhotel-shivangan.html | email= | address=VIP Rd, Baguiati | lat=22.6132 | long=88.4294 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2576 2711 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900-2,800 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Fern Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=204, MAR, Rajarhat | lat=22.62192 | long=88.44613 | directions= | phone=+91 70444 77444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,000-4,000 | image=Fern Residency - Hotel - 204 Major Arterial Road - Rajarhat - Kolkata 2017-08-08 3934.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Airport City | alt= | url=http://www.airportcityhotel.in/ | email= | address=259, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65416 | long=88.43538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 3131 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-3,700 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ethnotel | alt= | url=http://ethnotel.in | email= | address=71, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65075 | long=88.43674 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7101 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express | alt= | url= | email= | address=28, Jessore Rd | lat=22.64188 | long=88.43189 | directions= | phone=+91 62899 01724 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Airways | alt= | url= | email= | address=Motilal Colony, Rajbari | lat=22.6467 | long=88.4341 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 2106 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Gateway Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6419 | long=88.4307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2511 8324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=O2 Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Kaikhali| lat=22.6327 | long=88.4343 | directions= | phone= +91 33 25250078, +91 33 25250113 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Orbit Hotel | alt= | url=https://hotelorbit.co.in/ | email= | address=RB 29, VIP Rd, Raghunathpur | lat=22.62089 | long=88.432 | directions= | phone=+91 85840 14256 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | image=Orbit Hotel - RB 29 - VIP Road - Raghunathpur - Kolkata 2017-05-10 7599.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sher-e-Punjab | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Jessore Rd | lat=22.6774 | long=88.4463 | directions= | phone= +91 33 2567 2848, +91 90888 60003 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | content=A hotel-cum-restaurant with quality Punjabi dhaba food. Chinese and Thai dishes are also available. AC or open-air seating. Drinks served. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/hojo/rajarhat-india/howard-johnson-kolkata/overview | email= | address=Chinar Park | lat=22.623827 | long=88.4425 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6655 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600 | wikidata=Q111402425 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== The Northern Suburbs are one of the most polluted areas of Kolkata. A lot of vehicles travel through Birati and Dunlop crossings; therefore the area is very polluted. Use a mask and a handkerchief for this area. ==Cope== ===Fire stations=== * {{listing | name=Baranagar Fire Station | address=282, Deshpran Shasmal Ave | lat=22.6522 | long=88.3725 | phone=+91 33 25102102 }} ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Airport Police Station | address= | lat=22.64657 | long=88.43668 | phone=+91 33 253193000 }} * {{listing | name=Baranagar Police Station | address=47, BT Rd | lat=22.6362 | long=88.3784 | phone=+91 33 25319300 |lastedit=2023-05-21 }} * {{listing | name=Chitpur Police Station | address=19, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.61853 | long=88.37316 | phone=+91 33 25566141 }} * {{listing | name=Dum Dum Police Station | phone=+91 33 25514167 }} ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Cossipore Head Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.61892 | long=88.37213 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content= }} {{isPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|22.62|88.42|zoom=13}} 78yn8l909i1qgfmtmapk2uzb85hsiii 5090765 5090745 2025-07-10T12:45:22Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ 5090765 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dakshineswar Mandir pagebanner.JPG|pgname=Northern Suburbs}} The '''Northern Suburbs''' (উত্তর শহরতলি ''Uttar Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the large urbanised industrial area to the north of the city. It is home to the city's sole international airport, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and several other temples and heritage sites. It is also an important food and leisure hub in West Bengal, having a lot of international fast-food chains and shopping malls. ==Understand== ===History=== In the 17th century, Dutch merchants set up a residence at Baranagar and made it a large business hub at that time, and the centre of the jute industry. SInce then, the Northern Suburbs became a major industrial centre for the manufacture of agricultural and industrial machinery, chemicals, castor oil, several jute products, matches, and numerous cotton-processing companies. Other than industry, the suburbs also had a military history. The [[British Raj]] had a major arsenal at Dum Dum which manufactured, among other things, expanding bullets which are still sometimes called "dum-dum bullets". They were later banned in warfare by the Hague Convention as being "too inhumane". Dum Dum, along with [[Barrackpore]], was a major centre of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is rumoured that the paper cartridges provided to Indian soldiers were laced with pig lard or cow fat, resulting to the revolt of the soldiers in Dum Dum Cantonment. However, the importance of Dum Dum in military declined by the late 1920s when Dum Dum Cantonment was closed down and became a municipality. After the partition of India in 1947, the suburban areas began teeming with millions of refugees from East Pakistan, and most of them were converted into planned townships. Due to the rise of trade unionism in the 1970s and 80s, the industry of West Bengal, including the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, faced decline. ===Orientation=== [[File:Night lifestyle@lake town,Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Nighttime view of Lake Town, one of the former refugee colonies.]] The Northern Suburbs consists of numerous suburbs, and are covered by seven urban local bodies: Baranagar, Bidhannagar (BMC), Dum Dum, Kamarhati, Kolkata (KMC), North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum. Locals rarely refer to these municipalities, but rather to one of dozens of suburbs contained in this district. Here are some of those well-known ones: * '''Baranagar''' (বরাহনগর ''Barāhanagar'' or বরানগর ''Barānagar'') * '''Belgharia''' (বেলঘরিয়া ''Belghariẏā'') * '''Dakshineswar''' (দক্ষিণেশ্বর ''Dakṣiṇeśbar'') — nicknamed as the "twin of [[Varanasi]]" and home to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the most important religious shrines for Hindus. People from all over the world visit the temple every day in numbers. Along with the Kali temple, there are other important points of interest, like the Adyapeath temple and Sarada Math. * '''Dum Dum''' (দমদম ''Damdam'') — a major transport hub of Kolkata, alongside [[Howrah]], [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] and [[Kolkata/North|Sealdah]], and home to the city's only international airport. Dum Dum Junction is served by local trains from different locations, and is connected with metro and bus routes. This area covers Dum Dum, North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum municipalities. Certain areas near Salt Lake were once refugee colonies that hosted immigrants from East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). These areas now spot a brighter look. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.63|88.4|width=580|height=500|zoom=13|name=Map of the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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The Northern Suburbs have a well transport chain for travelling, especially near Dakshineswar, Dum Dum, and the VIP Road area. ===By train=== The Northern Suburbs are best visited by local trains. They have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. Local trains to North Suburban stations and beyond depart from Sealdah North and Main terminals. Sealdah&ndash;Ranaghat line is the main line of this district. A branch line runs from {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Dum Dum|city=kolkata|chord link|eastern}}|wikidata=Q15215337}} to [[Bangaon]]. The '''Calcutta Chord Link Line''' {{rint|kolkata|chord}} runs from Dum Dum to [[Dankuni]], on Howrah&ndash;Bardhaman Chord line. ===By metro=== Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} runs along the CC Link Line, with stops at Dum Dum, Noapara, Baranagar, and Dakshineswar. Line {{rint|kolkata|4}} is under construction, and will connect Noapara to the airport. ===By car=== The Northern Suburbs have several highways that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal. The main roads to enter the area from inner Kolkata include Barrackpore Trunk Road (BT Road, SH 1), Jessore Road, and VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani). Belghoria Expressway connects the airport area to the rest of West Bengal. ===By ferry=== * {{go | name=Dakshineswar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65362 | long=88.35749 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=You can enjoy a 20-30 minutes boating ride from Dakshineswar to Belur Math. Sunset on the Hooghly river behind Vivekananda Setu from the bank is superb. In winter you will enjoy the most with the set of dusk and chill wind blowing over your body. }} * {{go | name=Kuthi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.63514 | long=88.36263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A palace on the banks of river Hooghly, established by Dutch merchants in the 17th century, as '''Dutch Kuthi''', one of the heritage sites of Kolkata. The place was named "Kuthi Ghat" after the palace. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Basri Shah Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13059169 | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The oldest mosque in Kolkata, dating back to 1804. }} * {{see | name=Belgachia Villa | alt=Paikpara Rajbari | url= | email= | address=64B, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Belgachia | lat=22.60647 | long=88.38615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28978887 | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=A large garden house. Prince Dwarkanath Tagore bought it from an Italian around 1823. In 1846, when he died in England it was discovered that he was heavily in debt due to his extravagant spending. To pay off his debts, his son Debendranath sold Belgachia Villa and other properties. }} * {{see | name=Clive's House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rastraguru Ave, Nagerbazar | lat=22.626404 | long=88.416153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56152584 | lastedit=2022-09-07 | content=A rather mysterious building, it is considered the first pucca brick and cement building in the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, possibly built by the Portuguese. What is known is that it was used by British soldiers when they first entered the country. Later, Robert Clive took the area over, renovated it, added a floor to the single-storey building, and made it his country house around 1757-60. The house is located on raised ground in otherwise flat surroundings. When Clive House was excavated, a variety of artefacts were recovered, including coins, terracotta figures, sculptures, pottery and intelligence on a Portuguese fort. The articles found could be of the Sena period or may alternatively have links with the ancient [[Chandraketugarh]] civilisation. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Time Zone Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Lake Town | lat=22.60012 | long=88.40668 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=KOLKATA TIME ZONE.JPG | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=A one-third sized replica of the iconic Big Ben in [[London]]. The tower is 30 metres in height, while Big Ben in London is 96 metres. It has ten floors and the four clock faces are each 3.6 metres in diameter, compared to 7 metres in the original. }} ===Ashrams=== [[File:Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar.jpg|thumb|Baranagar Math]] * {{see | name=Alambazar Math | alt= | url=http://alambazarmath.azurewebsites.net/ | email= | address= | lat=22.6473 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alambazar Math | wikidata=Q17001290 | content=Second monastery of Ramakrishna Order. Swami Vivekananda first put up here after coming back from abroad. }} * {{see | name=Baranagar Math | alt= | url=http://www.rkmbaranagar.org | email= | address= | lat=22.631861 | long=88.3675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Baranagar Math | wikidata=Q14947352 | content=First monastery of Ramakrishna Order. After the death of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and some of his other disciples permanently started to live here. Here, they decided to establish Belur Math for the first time. }} * {{see | name=Sri Sarada Math | alt= | url=http://www.srisaradamath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66113 | long=88.35742 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564 5411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=Daily ritual worships are performed here by the nuns. The birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and other personalities are celebrated here, besides the Hindu festivals. Religious discourse and lectures are also done regularly. }} * {{see | name=Udyan Bati | alt=উদ্যানবাটী, Garden House | url= | email= | address=90, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.626267 | long=88.370467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16345231 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A monastery where Sri Ramakrishna lived from 1885 till his death in 1886. ''Kalpataru Utsav'' is celebrated every year at 1 January. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg|thumb|Kripamayee Kali Temple]] * {{see | name=Adyapeath Temple | alt= | url=http://www.adyapeath.com/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66025 | long=88.36335 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564-6999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=A three-pinnacled temple dedicated to goddess Adya, and the centre of a major religious controversy. It is said that Annada Thakur received a divine command that goddess Adya was buried under the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh#Eden Gardens|Eden Gardens]] for thousands of years. He went there in 1928 and allegedly saw the statue of the goddess coming out from the ground. He consecrated the statue as the idol of this temple. But archaeologist Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay found that the statue was sculpted recently and not thousands of years ago, as Annada Thakur claimed. Later, many people got enraged to Thakur's deception, and the devotees of the goddess decided to immerse the statue to the Ganges to prevent further fury. The sanctum of the temple remained void till the consecration of the present idol. }} * {{see | name=Kacher Mandir | alt=Glass Temple | url= | email= | address=1, Pran Krishna Saha Ln | lat=22.639 | long=88.3623 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kripamayee Kali Temple | alt=Joy Mitra Kalibari | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.637 | long=88.363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kripamayee Kali Temple | image=Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg | wikidata=Q6437106 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple of Goddess Kali worshipped as Kripamayee (she who is merciful). There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Mahamilan Math | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/7, PWD Road | lat=22.6518 | long=88.3717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Annapurna Temple and the Omkarnath Temple are two attractions here. }} * {{see | name=Parshwanath Jain Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=26, Khudiram Bose Sarani | lat=22.6057 | long=88.3828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67633842 | lastedit=2022-10-14 | content=Considered one of the most sacred Jain temples of worship in Kolkata. The temple also has a dharamshala equipped with modern facilities. }} * {{see | name=Pathbari Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6415 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A place where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu set his foot on his way to [[Puri]] in the early 16th century. }} ====Dakshineswar Temple Complex==== [[File:Dakshineshwar Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Dakshineswar Kali Temple]] [[File:Dakshineswar temple - panoramio.jpg|thumb|12 Shiva temples]] * {{see | name=Dakshineswar Kali Temple | alt= | url=http://www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.655 | long=88.357778 | directions=matro: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|blue}}, suburban: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|chord}}. Both stations are connected to the temple with about {{m|330}} long skywalk, which provides a good view of the surroundings. | phone=+91 33 2564-5222 | tollfree= | hours=6:00AM-12:30PM and 3:00PM-8:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q1157765 | lastedit=2022-07-15 | content=A huge temple complex with the famous Hindu ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here as Ma Bhavatarini. The temple complex was inaugurated by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the head and only priest of this temple from 1856 to 1886. He spent most of his life in the ''nahabat khānā'' (corruption of ''naubat xānā'', meaning "drum house") chamber of the temple complex. After Ramakrishna's death, the temple complex had been taken over by the then-Government of Bengal, later the Government of West Bengal. It attracts thousands of worshipers around the year, especially on the day of Shyama Puja, Shiva Chaturdashi, Poyla Boishakh, Akshaya Tritiya, New Year's Day and Kalpataru Utsava. Beside the main temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Hooghly River and a bathing ghat. Because of the temple's importance and the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, flowing by, it is also regarded as a twin of [[Varanasi]] by the locals. }} * {{see | name=Panchavati | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65638 | long=88.35716 | directions=north of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=A complex of trees consisting of banyan (''vaṭa''), peepal (''ashvattha''), neem (''nimba''), amla (''āmlakī'') and wood apple (''bilva'') trees. This is where Ramakrishna performed his advaitic sādhanā in 1865. }} * {{see | name=Rani Rashmoni Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65554 | long=88.35738 | directions=next to the gate of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=The shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple. }} ===Bridges=== * {{marker|type=see|name=Nivedita Setu|wikidata=Q7041769}} and {{marker|type=see|name=Vivekananda Setu|wikidata=Q844900}} — Two bridges across the Hooghly River, {{m|50}} apart. Vivekenanda Setu is a {{m|880}} long rail-cum-road bridge, built in 1932 as Willingdon Bridge and later renamed after Swami Vivekananda. Nivedita Setu is a newer cable-stayed bridge, named after the female disciple of Swami Vivekananda. ==Do== [[File:BRkM-6.jpg|thumb|Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission]] * {{do | name=Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission | alt=BRKM | url=http://rkmbaranagore.org | email=brkmreunion@gmail.com | address=37, Gopal Lal Tagore Rd, Baranagar | lat=22.6345 | long=88.370436 | directions= | phone=+91-33-2556-3817 | tollfree= | fax=+91-33-2556-3817 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19882251 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by Yogindranath Tagore (the disciple of Swami Brahmananda) in 1912. This institution celebrates many cultural programmes throughout the year. Many people come to watch those cultural events every year. }} * {{do | name=Narayani Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=15, Surya Sen Rd | lat=22.6491 | long=88.3635 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sinthee More Ground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=Hosts various local events throughout the year, including "Ajanta Circus" every winter. }} * {{do | name=Sonali Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sreebhumi Sporting Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lake Town | lat=22.59904 | long=88.40285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content=The club holds some of the best Durga Puja pandals in Greater Kolkata every year, with a huge crowd gathering during the festive season. }} ==Learn== [[File:Isical01.jpg|thumb|Indian Statistical Institute]] * {{listing | name=Indian Statistical Institute | alt=ISI | url=http://www.isical.ac.in/ | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.6482 | long=88.3768 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3105568 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by the statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1932, the institute is often considered one of the foremost centres in the world for training and research in statistics. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Chandrani Pearls | alt= | url= | email= | address=153/1, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3779 | directions={{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 33 25789025 | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM - 9PM | price= | content=Ornaments of pearls. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.diamondplaza.in/ | email= | address=68, Jessore Rd, Satgachi | lat=22.61551 | long=88.41209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Diamond plaza.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Nagerbazar | alt=নাগেরবাজার ''Nāgerbājār'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.622984 | long=88.414267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15260775 | lastedit=2025-01-03 | content=A major shopping centre in Dum Dum, at the crossroads of Dum Dum Rd and Jessore Rd. }} * {{buy | name=Saltee Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jessore Rd | lat=22.62485 | long=88.41729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Saltee Plaza - Jessore Road - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2017-08-08 4000.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ==Eat and drink== Major food chains include '''Wow Momo''' (140, BT Rd). Major cafe chains include '''Cafe Coffee Day''' (BT Rd). You also can get lassi in several sweets shops, in '''Anandamayee Sweets''' many kinds of lassi like mango, dahi etc. are available. In the Alambazar area, you could get lassi in a sweet shop. In the Dunlop area, near Baranagar railway station and Sonali cinema hall, several fruit juice shops are available. You can also visit "Dunlop Coffee House" for coffee. * {{eat | name=Anandamayee Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=209, BT Rd | lat=22.6412 | long=88.3778 | directions= | phone=+91 2577 0120 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content=Traditional Bengal sweets, curd (in Bengali "doi"), ice cream, dhokla, lassi. }} * {{eat | name=The Cric World | alt= | url= | email= | address=44/51, BT Rd | lat=22.6339 | long=88.3785 | directions= | phone=+91 9830415213 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 11PM | price= | content=Multi-cuisine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Dhaka Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6515 | long=88.3777 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903968610 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–10:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Food Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.65564 | long=88.35887 | directions=close to the Kali Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-02-06 | content=Vegetarian meals such as chole bhature. }} * {{eat | name=Food Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903943648 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=269/2, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=near Baranagar Police Station | phone=+91 9831736332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Haldiram's Confectioners | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Baranagar Road railway station | phone=+91 33 25780815 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-2PM & 5-9PM| price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62978 | long=88.42090 | directions= | phone=+91 83350 55881 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mahua | alt=মহুয়া ''Mahuẏā'' | url= | email= | address=18/3, KC Ghosh Rd | lat=22.63041 | long=88.38403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Dahi: ₹260 per kg | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 40-year-old shop is known for creamy dahi (দই ''dai''), and it often runs out of dahi every day. }} * {{eat | name=New Sher-e-Punjab Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=131, BT Rd | lat=22.6524 | long=88.3774 | directions=near Indian Statistical Institute | phone=+91 7890101313 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Debalay Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, TN Mukherjee Rd, Dakshineswar | lat=22.65593 | long=88.35908 | directions= | phone=+91 70441 74570 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel Shivangan | alt= | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/fabhotel-shivangan.html | email= | address=VIP Rd, Baguiati | lat=22.6132 | long=88.4294 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2576 2711 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900-2,800 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Fern Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=204, MAR, Rajarhat | lat=22.62192 | long=88.44613 | directions= | phone=+91 70444 77444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,000-4,000 | image=Fern Residency - Hotel - 204 Major Arterial Road - Rajarhat - Kolkata 2017-08-08 3934.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Airport City | alt= | url=http://www.airportcityhotel.in/ | email= | address=259, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65416 | long=88.43538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 3131 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-3,700 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ethnotel | alt= | url=http://ethnotel.in | email= | address=71, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65075 | long=88.43674 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7101 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express | alt= | url= | email= | address=28, Jessore Rd | lat=22.64188 | long=88.43189 | directions= | phone=+91 62899 01724 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Airways | alt= | url= | email= | address=Motilal Colony, Rajbari | lat=22.6467 | long=88.4341 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 2106 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Gateway Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6419 | long=88.4307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2511 8324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=O2 Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Kaikhali| lat=22.6327 | long=88.4343 | directions= | phone= +91 33 25250078, +91 33 25250113 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Orbit Hotel | alt= | url=https://hotelorbit.co.in/ | email= | address=RB 29, VIP Rd, Raghunathpur | lat=22.62089 | long=88.432 | directions= | phone=+91 85840 14256 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | image=Orbit Hotel - RB 29 - VIP Road - Raghunathpur - Kolkata 2017-05-10 7599.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sher-e-Punjab | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Jessore Rd | lat=22.6774 | long=88.4463 | directions= | phone= +91 33 2567 2848, +91 90888 60003 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | content=A hotel-cum-restaurant with quality Punjabi dhaba food. Chinese and Thai dishes are also available. AC or open-air seating. Drinks served. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/hojo/rajarhat-india/howard-johnson-kolkata/overview | email= | address=Chinar Park | lat=22.623827 | long=88.4425 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6655 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600 | wikidata=Q111402425 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== The Northern Suburbs are one of the most polluted areas of Kolkata. A lot of vehicles travel through Birati and Dunlop crossings; therefore the area is very polluted. Use a mask and a handkerchief for this area. ==Cope== ===Fire stations=== * {{listing | name=Baranagar Fire Station | address=282, Deshpran Shasmal Ave | lat=22.6522 | long=88.3725 | phone=+91 33 25102102 }} ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Airport Police Station | address= | lat=22.64657 | long=88.43668 | phone=+91 33 253193000 }} * {{listing | name=Baranagar Police Station | address=47, BT Rd | lat=22.6362 | long=88.3784 | phone=+91 33 25319300 |lastedit=2023-05-21 }} * {{listing | name=Chitpur Police Station | address=19, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.61853 | long=88.37316 | phone=+91 33 25566141 }} * {{listing | name=Dum Dum Police Station | phone=+91 33 25514167 }} ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Cossipore Head Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.61892 | long=88.37213 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content= }} {{isPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|22.62|88.42|zoom=13}} dfsodyi4mmzvkkl7rqj87chh56nob4p 5090766 5090765 2025-07-10T12:46:23Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport 5090766 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dakshineswar Mandir pagebanner.JPG|pgname=Northern Suburbs}} The '''Northern Suburbs''' (উত্তর শহরতলি ''Uttar Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the large urbanised industrial area to the north of the city. It is home to the city's sole international airport, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and several other temples and heritage sites. It is also an important food and leisure hub in West Bengal, having a lot of international fast-food chains and shopping malls. ==Understand== ===History=== In the 17th century, Dutch merchants set up a residence at Baranagar and made it a large business hub at that time, and the centre of the jute industry. SInce then, the Northern Suburbs became a major industrial centre for the manufacture of agricultural and industrial machinery, chemicals, castor oil, several jute products, matches, and numerous cotton-processing companies. Other than industry, the suburbs also had a military history. The [[British Raj]] had a major arsenal at Dum Dum which manufactured, among other things, expanding bullets which are still sometimes called "dum-dum bullets". They were later banned in warfare by the Hague Convention as being "too inhumane". Dum Dum, along with [[Barrackpore]], was a major centre of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is rumoured that the paper cartridges provided to Indian soldiers were laced with pig lard or cow fat, resulting to the revolt of the soldiers in Dum Dum Cantonment. However, the importance of Dum Dum in military declined by the late 1920s when Dum Dum Cantonment was closed down and became a municipality. After the partition of India in 1947, the suburban areas began teeming with millions of refugees from East Pakistan, and most of them were converted into planned townships. Due to the rise of trade unionism in the 1970s and 80s, the industry of West Bengal, including the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, faced decline. ===Orientation=== [[File:Night lifestyle@lake town,Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Nighttime view of Lake Town, one of the former refugee colonies.]] The Northern Suburbs consists of numerous suburbs, and are covered by seven urban local bodies: Baranagar, Bidhannagar (BMC), Dum Dum, Kamarhati, Kolkata (KMC), North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum. Locals rarely refer to these municipalities, but rather to one of dozens of suburbs contained in this district. Here are some of those well-known ones: * '''Baranagar''' (বরাহনগর ''Barāhanagar'' or বরানগর ''Barānagar'') * '''Belgharia''' (বেলঘরিয়া ''Belghariẏā'') * '''Dakshineswar''' (দক্ষিণেশ্বর ''Dakṣiṇeśbar'') — nicknamed as the "twin of [[Varanasi]]" and home to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the most important religious shrines for Hindus. People from all over the world visit the temple every day in numbers. Along with the Kali temple, there are other important points of interest, like the Adyapeath temple and Sarada Math. * '''Dum Dum''' (দমদম ''Damdam'') — a major transport hub of Kolkata, alongside [[Howrah]], [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] and [[Kolkata/North|Sealdah]], and home to the city's only international airport. Dum Dum Junction is served by local trains from different locations, and is connected with metro and bus routes. This area covers Dum Dum, North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum municipalities. Certain areas near Salt Lake were once refugee colonies that hosted immigrants from East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). These areas now spot a brighter look. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.63|88.4|width=580|height=500|zoom=13|name=Map of the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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The Northern Suburbs have a well transport chain for travelling, especially near Dakshineswar, Dum Dum, and the VIP Road area. ===By train=== The Northern Suburbs are best visited by local trains. They have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. Local trains to North Suburban stations and beyond depart from Sealdah North and Main terminals. Sealdah&ndash;Ranaghat line is the main line of this district. A branch line runs from {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Dum Dum|city=kolkata|chord link|eastern}}|wikidata=Q15215337}} to [[Bangaon]]. The '''Calcutta Chord Link Line''' {{rint|kolkata|chord}} runs from Dum Dum to [[Dankuni]], on Howrah&ndash;Bardhaman Chord line. ===By metro=== Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} runs along the CC Link Line, with stops at Dum Dum, Noapara, Baranagar, and Dakshineswar. Line {{rint|kolkata|4}} is under construction, and will connect Noapara to the airport. ===By car=== The Northern Suburbs have several highways that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal. The main roads to enter the area from inner Kolkata include Barrackpore Trunk Road (BT Road, SH 1), Jessore Road, and VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani). Belghoria Expressway connects the airport area to the rest of West Bengal. ===By ferry=== * {{go | name=Dakshineswar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65362 | long=88.35749 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=You can enjoy a 20-30 minutes boating ride from Dakshineswar to Belur Math. Sunset on the Hooghly river behind Vivekananda Setu from the bank is superb. In winter you will enjoy the most with the set of dusk and chill wind blowing over your body. }} * {{go | name=Kuthi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.63514 | long=88.36263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A palace on the banks of river Hooghly, established by Dutch merchants in the 17th century, as '''Dutch Kuthi''', one of the heritage sites of Kolkata. The place was named "Kuthi Ghat" after the palace. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Basri Shah Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13059169 | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The oldest mosque in Kolkata, dating back to 1804. }} * {{see | name=Belgachia Villa | alt=Paikpara Rajbari | url= | email= | address=64B, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Belgachia | lat=22.60647 | long=88.38615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28978887 | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=A large garden house. Prince Dwarkanath Tagore bought it from an Italian around 1823. In 1846, when he died in England it was discovered that he was heavily in debt due to his extravagant spending. To pay off his debts, his son Debendranath sold Belgachia Villa and other properties. }} * {{see | name=Clive's House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rastraguru Ave, Nagerbazar | lat=22.626404 | long=88.416153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56152584 | lastedit=2022-09-07 | content=A rather mysterious building, it is considered the first pucca brick and cement building in the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, possibly built by the Portuguese. What is known is that it was used by British soldiers when they first entered the country. Later, Robert Clive took the area over, renovated it, added a floor to the single-storey building, and made it his country house around 1757-60. The house is located on raised ground in otherwise flat surroundings. When Clive House was excavated, a variety of artefacts were recovered, including coins, terracotta figures, sculptures, pottery and intelligence on a Portuguese fort. The articles found could be of the Sena period or may alternatively have links with the ancient [[Chandraketugarh]] civilisation. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Time Zone Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Lake Town | lat=22.60012 | long=88.40668 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=KOLKATA TIME ZONE.JPG | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=A one-third sized replica of the iconic Big Ben in [[London]]. The tower is 30 metres in height, while Big Ben in London is 96 metres. It has ten floors and the four clock faces are each 3.6 metres in diameter, compared to 7 metres in the original. }} ===Ashrams=== [[File:Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar.jpg|thumb|Baranagar Math]] * {{see | name=Alambazar Math | alt= | url=http://alambazarmath.azurewebsites.net/ | email= | address= | lat=22.6473 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alambazar Math | wikidata=Q17001290 | content=Second monastery of Ramakrishna Order. Swami Vivekananda first put up here after coming back from abroad. }} * {{see | name=Baranagar Math | alt= | url=http://www.rkmbaranagar.org | email= | address= | lat=22.631861 | long=88.3675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Baranagar Math | wikidata=Q14947352 | content=First monastery of Ramakrishna Order. After the death of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and some of his other disciples permanently started to live here. Here, they decided to establish Belur Math for the first time. }} * {{see | name=Sri Sarada Math | alt= | url=http://www.srisaradamath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66113 | long=88.35742 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564 5411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=Daily ritual worships are performed here by the nuns. The birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and other personalities are celebrated here, besides the Hindu festivals. Religious discourse and lectures are also done regularly. }} * {{see | name=Udyan Bati | alt=উদ্যানবাটী, Garden House | url= | email= | address=90, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.626267 | long=88.370467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16345231 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A monastery where Sri Ramakrishna lived from 1885 till his death in 1886. ''Kalpataru Utsav'' is celebrated every year at 1 January. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg|thumb|Kripamayee Kali Temple]] * {{see | name=Adyapeath Temple | alt= | url=http://www.adyapeath.com/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66025 | long=88.36335 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564-6999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=A three-pinnacled temple dedicated to goddess Adya, and the centre of a major religious controversy. It is said that Annada Thakur received a divine command that goddess Adya was buried under the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh#Eden Gardens|Eden Gardens]] for thousands of years. He went there in 1928 and allegedly saw the statue of the goddess coming out from the ground. He consecrated the statue as the idol of this temple. But archaeologist Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay found that the statue was sculpted recently and not thousands of years ago, as Annada Thakur claimed. Later, many people got enraged to Thakur's deception, and the devotees of the goddess decided to immerse the statue to the Ganges to prevent further fury. The sanctum of the temple remained void till the consecration of the present idol. }} * {{see | name=Kacher Mandir | alt=Glass Temple | url= | email= | address=1, Pran Krishna Saha Ln | lat=22.639 | long=88.3623 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kripamayee Kali Temple | alt=Joy Mitra Kalibari | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.637 | long=88.363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kripamayee Kali Temple | image=Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg | wikidata=Q6437106 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple of Goddess Kali worshipped as Kripamayee (she who is merciful). There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Mahamilan Math | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/7, PWD Road | lat=22.6518 | long=88.3717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Annapurna Temple and the Omkarnath Temple are two attractions here. }} * {{see | name=Parshwanath Jain Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=26, Khudiram Bose Sarani | lat=22.6057 | long=88.3828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67633842 | lastedit=2022-10-14 | content=Considered one of the most sacred Jain temples of worship in Kolkata. The temple also has a dharamshala equipped with modern facilities. }} * {{see | name=Pathbari Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6415 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A place where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu set his foot on his way to [[Puri]] in the early 16th century. }} ====Dakshineswar Temple Complex==== [[File:Dakshineshwar Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Dakshineswar Kali Temple]] [[File:Dakshineswar temple - panoramio.jpg|thumb|12 Shiva temples]] * {{see | name=Dakshineswar Kali Temple | alt= | url=http://www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.655 | long=88.357778 | directions=matro: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|blue}}, suburban: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|chord}}. Both stations are connected to the temple with about {{m|330}} long skywalk, which provides a good view of the surroundings. | phone=+91 33 2564-5222 | tollfree= | hours=6:00AM-12:30PM and 3:00PM-8:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q1157765 | lastedit=2022-07-15 | content=A huge temple complex with the famous Hindu ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here as Ma Bhavatarini. The temple complex was inaugurated by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the head and only priest of this temple from 1856 to 1886. He spent most of his life in the ''nahabat khānā'' (corruption of ''naubat xānā'', meaning "drum house") chamber of the temple complex. After Ramakrishna's death, the temple complex had been taken over by the then-Government of Bengal, later the Government of West Bengal. It attracts thousands of worshipers around the year, especially on the day of Shyama Puja, Shiva Chaturdashi, Poyla Boishakh, Akshaya Tritiya, New Year's Day and Kalpataru Utsava. Beside the main temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Hooghly River and a bathing ghat. Because of the temple's importance and the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, flowing by, it is also regarded as a twin of [[Varanasi]] by the locals. }} * {{see | name=Panchavati | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65638 | long=88.35716 | directions=north of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=A complex of trees consisting of banyan (''vaṭa''), peepal (''ashvattha''), neem (''nimba''), amla (''āmlakī'') and wood apple (''bilva'') trees. This is where Ramakrishna performed his advaitic sādhanā in 1865. }} * {{see | name=Rani Rashmoni Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65554 | long=88.35738 | directions=next to the gate of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=The shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple. }} ===Bridges=== * {{marker|type=see|name=Nivedita Setu|wikidata=Q7041769}} and {{marker|type=see|name=Vivekananda Setu|wikidata=Q844900}} — Two bridges across the Hooghly River, {{m|50}} apart. Vivekenanda Setu is a {{m|880}} long rail-cum-road bridge, built in 1932 as Willingdon Bridge and later renamed after Swami Vivekananda. Nivedita Setu is a newer cable-stayed bridge, named after the female disciple of Swami Vivekananda. ==Do== [[File:BRkM-6.jpg|thumb|Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission]] * {{do | name=Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission | alt=BRKM | url=http://rkmbaranagore.org | email=brkmreunion@gmail.com | address=37, Gopal Lal Tagore Rd, Baranagar | lat=22.6345 | long=88.370436 | directions= | phone=+91-33-2556-3817 | tollfree= | fax=+91-33-2556-3817 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19882251 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by Yogindranath Tagore (the disciple of Swami Brahmananda) in 1912. This institution celebrates many cultural programmes throughout the year. Many people come to watch those cultural events every year. }} * {{do | name=Narayani Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=15, Surya Sen Rd | lat=22.6491 | long=88.3635 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sinthee More Ground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=Hosts various local events throughout the year, including "Ajanta Circus" every winter. }} * {{do | name=Sonali Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sreebhumi Sporting Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lake Town | lat=22.59904 | long=88.40285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content=The club holds some of the best Durga Puja pandals in Greater Kolkata every year, with a huge crowd gathering during the festive season. }} ==Learn== [[File:Isical01.jpg|thumb|Indian Statistical Institute]] * {{listing | name=Indian Statistical Institute | alt=ISI | url=http://www.isical.ac.in/ | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.6482 | long=88.3768 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3105568 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by the statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1932, the institute is often considered one of the foremost centres in the world for training and research in statistics. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Chandrani Pearls | alt= | url= | email= | address=153/1, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3779 | directions={{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 33 25789025 | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM - 9PM | price= | content=Ornaments of pearls. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.diamondplaza.in/ | email= | address=68, Jessore Rd, Satgachi | lat=22.61551 | long=88.41209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Diamond plaza.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Nagerbazar | alt=নাগেরবাজার ''Nāgerbājār'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.622984 | long=88.414267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15260775 | lastedit=2025-01-03 | content=A major shopping centre in Dum Dum, at the crossroads of Dum Dum Rd and Jessore Rd. }} * {{buy | name=Saltee Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jessore Rd | lat=22.62485 | long=88.41729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Saltee Plaza - Jessore Road - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2017-08-08 4000.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ==Eat and drink== Major food chains include '''Wow Momo''' (140, BT Rd). Major cafe chains include '''Cafe Coffee Day''' (BT Rd). You also can get lassi in several sweets shops, in '''Anandamayee Sweets''' many kinds of lassi like mango, dahi etc. are available. In the Alambazar area, you could get lassi in a sweet shop. In the Dunlop area, near Baranagar railway station and Sonali cinema hall, several fruit juice shops are available. You can also visit "Dunlop Coffee House" for coffee. * {{eat | name=Anandamayee Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=209, BT Rd | lat=22.6412 | long=88.3778 | directions= | phone=+91 2577 0120 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content=Traditional Bengal sweets, curd (in Bengali "doi"), ice cream, dhokla, lassi. }} * {{eat | name=The Cric World | alt= | url= | email= | address=44/51, BT Rd | lat=22.6339 | long=88.3785 | directions= | phone=+91 9830415213 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 11PM | price= | content=Multi-cuisine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Dhaka Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6515 | long=88.3777 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903968610 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–10:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Food Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.65564 | long=88.35887 | directions=close to the Kali Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-02-06 | content=Vegetarian meals such as chole bhature. }} * {{eat | name=Food Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903943648 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=269/2, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=near Baranagar Police Station | phone=+91 9831736332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Haldiram's Confectioners | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Baranagar Road railway station | phone=+91 33 25780815 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-2PM & 5-9PM| price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62978 | long=88.42090 | directions= | phone=+91 83350 55881 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mahua | alt=মহুয়া ''Mahuẏā'' | url= | email= | address=18/3, KC Ghosh Rd | lat=22.63041 | long=88.38403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Dahi: ₹260 per kg | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 40-year-old shop is known for creamy dahi (দই ''dai''), and it often runs out of dahi every day. }} * {{eat | name=New Sher-e-Punjab Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=131, BT Rd | lat=22.6524 | long=88.3774 | directions=near Indian Statistical Institute | phone=+91 7890101313 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Debalay Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, TN Mukherjee Rd, Dakshineswar | lat=22.65593 | long=88.35908 | directions= | phone=+91 70441 74570 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel Shivangan | alt= | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/fabhotel-shivangan.html | email= | address=VIP Rd, Baguiati | lat=22.6132 | long=88.4294 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2576 2711 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900-2,800 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Fern Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=204, MAR, Rajarhat | lat=22.62192 | long=88.44613 | directions= | phone=+91 70444 77444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,000-4,000 | image=Fern Residency - Hotel - 204 Major Arterial Road - Rajarhat - Kolkata 2017-08-08 3934.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Airport City | alt= | url=http://www.airportcityhotel.in/ | email= | address=259, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65416 | long=88.43538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 3131 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-3,700 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ethnotel | alt= | url=http://ethnotel.in | email= | address=71, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65075 | long=88.43674 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7101 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express | alt= | url= | email= | address=28, Jessore Rd | lat=22.64188 | long=88.43189 | directions= | phone=+91 62899 01724 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Airways | alt= | url= | email= | address=Motilal Colony, Rajbari | lat=22.6467 | long=88.4341 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 2106 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Gateway Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6419 | long=88.4307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2511 8324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=O2 Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Kaikhali| lat=22.6327 | long=88.4343 | directions= | phone= +91 33 25250078, +91 33 25250113 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Orbit Hotel | alt= | url=https://hotelorbit.co.in/ | email= | address=RB 29, VIP Rd, Raghunathpur | lat=22.62089 | long=88.432 | directions= | phone=+91 85840 14256 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | image=Orbit Hotel - RB 29 - VIP Road - Raghunathpur - Kolkata 2017-05-10 7599.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sher-e-Punjab | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Jessore Rd | lat=22.6774 | long=88.4463 | directions= | phone= +91 33 2567 2848, +91 90888 60003 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | content=A hotel-cum-restaurant with quality Punjabi dhaba food. Chinese and Thai dishes are also available. AC or open-air seating. Drinks served. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62319 | long=88.44338 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹5,270 | wikidata=Q111402426 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/hojo/rajarhat-india/howard-johnson-kolkata/overview | email= | address=Chinar Park | lat=22.623827 | long=88.4425 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6655 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600 | wikidata=Q111402425 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== The Northern Suburbs are one of the most polluted areas of Kolkata. A lot of vehicles travel through Birati and Dunlop crossings; therefore the area is very polluted. Use a mask and a handkerchief for this area. ==Cope== ===Fire stations=== * {{listing | name=Baranagar Fire Station | address=282, Deshpran Shasmal Ave | lat=22.6522 | long=88.3725 | phone=+91 33 25102102 }} ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Airport Police Station | address= | lat=22.64657 | long=88.43668 | phone=+91 33 253193000 }} * {{listing | name=Baranagar Police Station | address=47, BT Rd | lat=22.6362 | long=88.3784 | phone=+91 33 25319300 |lastedit=2023-05-21 }} * {{listing | name=Chitpur Police Station | address=19, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.61853 | long=88.37316 | phone=+91 33 25566141 }} * {{listing | name=Dum Dum Police Station | phone=+91 33 25514167 }} ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Cossipore Head Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.61892 | long=88.37213 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content= }} {{isPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|22.62|88.42|zoom=13}} 74tdiio3hug1r2sod29o7nrjd8ixov0 5090769 5090766 2025-07-10T12:47:12Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport 5090769 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dakshineswar Mandir pagebanner.JPG|pgname=Northern Suburbs}} The '''Northern Suburbs''' (উত্তর শহরতলি ''Uttar Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the large urbanised industrial area to the north of the city. It is home to the city's sole international airport, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and several other temples and heritage sites. It is also an important food and leisure hub in West Bengal, having a lot of international fast-food chains and shopping malls. ==Understand== ===History=== In the 17th century, Dutch merchants set up a residence at Baranagar and made it a large business hub at that time, and the centre of the jute industry. SInce then, the Northern Suburbs became a major industrial centre for the manufacture of agricultural and industrial machinery, chemicals, castor oil, several jute products, matches, and numerous cotton-processing companies. Other than industry, the suburbs also had a military history. The [[British Raj]] had a major arsenal at Dum Dum which manufactured, among other things, expanding bullets which are still sometimes called "dum-dum bullets". They were later banned in warfare by the Hague Convention as being "too inhumane". Dum Dum, along with [[Barrackpore]], was a major centre of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is rumoured that the paper cartridges provided to Indian soldiers were laced with pig lard or cow fat, resulting to the revolt of the soldiers in Dum Dum Cantonment. However, the importance of Dum Dum in military declined by the late 1920s when Dum Dum Cantonment was closed down and became a municipality. After the partition of India in 1947, the suburban areas began teeming with millions of refugees from East Pakistan, and most of them were converted into planned townships. Due to the rise of trade unionism in the 1970s and 80s, the industry of West Bengal, including the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, faced decline. ===Orientation=== [[File:Night lifestyle@lake town,Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Nighttime view of Lake Town, one of the former refugee colonies.]] The Northern Suburbs consists of numerous suburbs, and are covered by seven urban local bodies: Baranagar, Bidhannagar (BMC), Dum Dum, Kamarhati, Kolkata (KMC), North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum. Locals rarely refer to these municipalities, but rather to one of dozens of suburbs contained in this district. Here are some of those well-known ones: * '''Baranagar''' (বরাহনগর ''Barāhanagar'' or বরানগর ''Barānagar'') * '''Belgharia''' (বেলঘরিয়া ''Belghariẏā'') * '''Dakshineswar''' (দক্ষিণেশ্বর ''Dakṣiṇeśbar'') — nicknamed as the "twin of [[Varanasi]]" and home to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the most important religious shrines for Hindus. People from all over the world visit the temple every day in numbers. Along with the Kali temple, there are other important points of interest, like the Adyapeath temple and Sarada Math. * '''Dum Dum''' (দমদম ''Damdam'') — a major transport hub of Kolkata, alongside [[Howrah]], [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] and [[Kolkata/North|Sealdah]], and home to the city's only international airport. Dum Dum Junction is served by local trains from different locations, and is connected with metro and bus routes. This area covers Dum Dum, North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum municipalities. Certain areas near Salt Lake were once refugee colonies that hosted immigrants from East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). These areas now spot a brighter look. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.63|88.4|width=580|height=500|zoom=13|name=Map of the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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The Northern Suburbs have a well transport chain for travelling, especially near Dakshineswar, Dum Dum, and the VIP Road area. ===By train=== The Northern Suburbs are best visited by local trains. They have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. Local trains to North Suburban stations and beyond depart from Sealdah North and Main terminals. Sealdah&ndash;Ranaghat line is the main line of this district. A branch line runs from {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Dum Dum|city=kolkata|chord link|eastern}}|wikidata=Q15215337}} to [[Bangaon]]. The '''Calcutta Chord Link Line''' {{rint|kolkata|chord}} runs from Dum Dum to [[Dankuni]], on Howrah&ndash;Bardhaman Chord line. ===By metro=== Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} runs along the CC Link Line, with stops at Dum Dum, Noapara, Baranagar, and Dakshineswar. Line {{rint|kolkata|4}} is under construction, and will connect Noapara to the airport. ===By car=== The Northern Suburbs have several highways that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal. The main roads to enter the area from inner Kolkata include Barrackpore Trunk Road (BT Road, SH 1), Jessore Road, and VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani). Belghoria Expressway connects the airport area to the rest of West Bengal. ===By ferry=== * {{go | name=Dakshineswar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65362 | long=88.35749 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=You can enjoy a 20-30 minutes boating ride from Dakshineswar to Belur Math. Sunset on the Hooghly river behind Vivekananda Setu from the bank is superb. In winter you will enjoy the most with the set of dusk and chill wind blowing over your body. }} * {{go | name=Kuthi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.63514 | long=88.36263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A palace on the banks of river Hooghly, established by Dutch merchants in the 17th century, as '''Dutch Kuthi''', one of the heritage sites of Kolkata. The place was named "Kuthi Ghat" after the palace. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Basri Shah Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13059169 | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The oldest mosque in Kolkata, dating back to 1804. }} * {{see | name=Belgachia Villa | alt=Paikpara Rajbari | url= | email= | address=64B, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Belgachia | lat=22.60647 | long=88.38615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28978887 | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=A large garden house. Prince Dwarkanath Tagore bought it from an Italian around 1823. In 1846, when he died in England it was discovered that he was heavily in debt due to his extravagant spending. To pay off his debts, his son Debendranath sold Belgachia Villa and other properties. }} * {{see | name=Clive's House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rastraguru Ave, Nagerbazar | lat=22.626404 | long=88.416153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56152584 | lastedit=2022-09-07 | content=A rather mysterious building, it is considered the first pucca brick and cement building in the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, possibly built by the Portuguese. What is known is that it was used by British soldiers when they first entered the country. Later, Robert Clive took the area over, renovated it, added a floor to the single-storey building, and made it his country house around 1757-60. The house is located on raised ground in otherwise flat surroundings. When Clive House was excavated, a variety of artefacts were recovered, including coins, terracotta figures, sculptures, pottery and intelligence on a Portuguese fort. The articles found could be of the Sena period or may alternatively have links with the ancient [[Chandraketugarh]] civilisation. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Time Zone Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Lake Town | lat=22.60012 | long=88.40668 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=KOLKATA TIME ZONE.JPG | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=A one-third sized replica of the iconic Big Ben in [[London]]. The tower is 30 metres in height, while Big Ben in London is 96 metres. It has ten floors and the four clock faces are each 3.6 metres in diameter, compared to 7 metres in the original. }} ===Ashrams=== [[File:Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar.jpg|thumb|Baranagar Math]] * {{see | name=Alambazar Math | alt= | url=http://alambazarmath.azurewebsites.net/ | email= | address= | lat=22.6473 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alambazar Math | wikidata=Q17001290 | content=Second monastery of Ramakrishna Order. Swami Vivekananda first put up here after coming back from abroad. }} * {{see | name=Baranagar Math | alt= | url=http://www.rkmbaranagar.org | email= | address= | lat=22.631861 | long=88.3675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Baranagar Math | wikidata=Q14947352 | content=First monastery of Ramakrishna Order. After the death of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and some of his other disciples permanently started to live here. Here, they decided to establish Belur Math for the first time. }} * {{see | name=Sri Sarada Math | alt= | url=http://www.srisaradamath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66113 | long=88.35742 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564 5411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=Daily ritual worships are performed here by the nuns. The birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and other personalities are celebrated here, besides the Hindu festivals. Religious discourse and lectures are also done regularly. }} * {{see | name=Udyan Bati | alt=উদ্যানবাটী, Garden House | url= | email= | address=90, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.626267 | long=88.370467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16345231 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A monastery where Sri Ramakrishna lived from 1885 till his death in 1886. ''Kalpataru Utsav'' is celebrated every year at 1 January. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg|thumb|Kripamayee Kali Temple]] * {{see | name=Adyapeath Temple | alt= | url=http://www.adyapeath.com/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66025 | long=88.36335 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564-6999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=A three-pinnacled temple dedicated to goddess Adya, and the centre of a major religious controversy. It is said that Annada Thakur received a divine command that goddess Adya was buried under the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh#Eden Gardens|Eden Gardens]] for thousands of years. He went there in 1928 and allegedly saw the statue of the goddess coming out from the ground. He consecrated the statue as the idol of this temple. But archaeologist Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay found that the statue was sculpted recently and not thousands of years ago, as Annada Thakur claimed. Later, many people got enraged to Thakur's deception, and the devotees of the goddess decided to immerse the statue to the Ganges to prevent further fury. The sanctum of the temple remained void till the consecration of the present idol. }} * {{see | name=Kacher Mandir | alt=Glass Temple | url= | email= | address=1, Pran Krishna Saha Ln | lat=22.639 | long=88.3623 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kripamayee Kali Temple | alt=Joy Mitra Kalibari | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.637 | long=88.363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kripamayee Kali Temple | image=Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg | wikidata=Q6437106 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple of Goddess Kali worshipped as Kripamayee (she who is merciful). There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Mahamilan Math | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/7, PWD Road | lat=22.6518 | long=88.3717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Annapurna Temple and the Omkarnath Temple are two attractions here. }} * {{see | name=Parshwanath Jain Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=26, Khudiram Bose Sarani | lat=22.6057 | long=88.3828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67633842 | lastedit=2022-10-14 | content=Considered one of the most sacred Jain temples of worship in Kolkata. The temple also has a dharamshala equipped with modern facilities. }} * {{see | name=Pathbari Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6415 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A place where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu set his foot on his way to [[Puri]] in the early 16th century. }} ====Dakshineswar Temple Complex==== [[File:Dakshineshwar Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Dakshineswar Kali Temple]] [[File:Dakshineswar temple - panoramio.jpg|thumb|12 Shiva temples]] * {{see | name=Dakshineswar Kali Temple | alt= | url=http://www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.655 | long=88.357778 | directions=matro: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|blue}}, suburban: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|chord}}. Both stations are connected to the temple with about {{m|330}} long skywalk, which provides a good view of the surroundings. | phone=+91 33 2564-5222 | tollfree= | hours=6:00AM-12:30PM and 3:00PM-8:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q1157765 | lastedit=2022-07-15 | content=A huge temple complex with the famous Hindu ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here as Ma Bhavatarini. The temple complex was inaugurated by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the head and only priest of this temple from 1856 to 1886. He spent most of his life in the ''nahabat khānā'' (corruption of ''naubat xānā'', meaning "drum house") chamber of the temple complex. After Ramakrishna's death, the temple complex had been taken over by the then-Government of Bengal, later the Government of West Bengal. It attracts thousands of worshipers around the year, especially on the day of Shyama Puja, Shiva Chaturdashi, Poyla Boishakh, Akshaya Tritiya, New Year's Day and Kalpataru Utsava. Beside the main temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Hooghly River and a bathing ghat. Because of the temple's importance and the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, flowing by, it is also regarded as a twin of [[Varanasi]] by the locals. }} * {{see | name=Panchavati | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65638 | long=88.35716 | directions=north of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=A complex of trees consisting of banyan (''vaṭa''), peepal (''ashvattha''), neem (''nimba''), amla (''āmlakī'') and wood apple (''bilva'') trees. This is where Ramakrishna performed his advaitic sādhanā in 1865. }} * {{see | name=Rani Rashmoni Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65554 | long=88.35738 | directions=next to the gate of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=The shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple. }} ===Bridges=== * {{marker|type=see|name=Nivedita Setu|wikidata=Q7041769}} and {{marker|type=see|name=Vivekananda Setu|wikidata=Q844900}} — Two bridges across the Hooghly River, {{m|50}} apart. Vivekenanda Setu is a {{m|880}} long rail-cum-road bridge, built in 1932 as Willingdon Bridge and later renamed after Swami Vivekananda. Nivedita Setu is a newer cable-stayed bridge, named after the female disciple of Swami Vivekananda. ==Do== [[File:BRkM-6.jpg|thumb|Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission]] * {{do | name=Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission | alt=BRKM | url=http://rkmbaranagore.org | email=brkmreunion@gmail.com | address=37, Gopal Lal Tagore Rd, Baranagar | lat=22.6345 | long=88.370436 | directions= | phone=+91-33-2556-3817 | tollfree= | fax=+91-33-2556-3817 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19882251 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by Yogindranath Tagore (the disciple of Swami Brahmananda) in 1912. This institution celebrates many cultural programmes throughout the year. Many people come to watch those cultural events every year. }} * {{do | name=Narayani Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=15, Surya Sen Rd | lat=22.6491 | long=88.3635 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sinthee More Ground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=Hosts various local events throughout the year, including "Ajanta Circus" every winter. }} * {{do | name=Sonali Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sreebhumi Sporting Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lake Town | lat=22.59904 | long=88.40285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content=The club holds some of the best Durga Puja pandals in Greater Kolkata every year, with a huge crowd gathering during the festive season. }} ==Learn== [[File:Isical01.jpg|thumb|Indian Statistical Institute]] * {{listing | name=Indian Statistical Institute | alt=ISI | url=http://www.isical.ac.in/ | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.6482 | long=88.3768 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3105568 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by the statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1932, the institute is often considered one of the foremost centres in the world for training and research in statistics. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Chandrani Pearls | alt= | url= | email= | address=153/1, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3779 | directions={{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 33 25789025 | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM - 9PM | price= | content=Ornaments of pearls. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.diamondplaza.in/ | email= | address=68, Jessore Rd, Satgachi | lat=22.61551 | long=88.41209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Diamond plaza.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Nagerbazar | alt=নাগেরবাজার ''Nāgerbājār'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.622984 | long=88.414267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15260775 | lastedit=2025-01-03 | content=A major shopping centre in Dum Dum, at the crossroads of Dum Dum Rd and Jessore Rd. }} * {{buy | name=Saltee Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jessore Rd | lat=22.62485 | long=88.41729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Saltee Plaza - Jessore Road - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2017-08-08 4000.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ==Eat and drink== Major food chains include '''Wow Momo''' (140, BT Rd). Major cafe chains include '''Cafe Coffee Day''' (BT Rd). You also can get lassi in several sweets shops, in '''Anandamayee Sweets''' many kinds of lassi like mango, dahi etc. are available. In the Alambazar area, you could get lassi in a sweet shop. In the Dunlop area, near Baranagar railway station and Sonali cinema hall, several fruit juice shops are available. You can also visit "Dunlop Coffee House" for coffee. * {{eat | name=Anandamayee Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=209, BT Rd | lat=22.6412 | long=88.3778 | directions= | phone=+91 2577 0120 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content=Traditional Bengal sweets, curd (in Bengali "doi"), ice cream, dhokla, lassi. }} * {{eat | name=The Cric World | alt= | url= | email= | address=44/51, BT Rd | lat=22.6339 | long=88.3785 | directions= | phone=+91 9830415213 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 11PM | price= | content=Multi-cuisine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Dhaka Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6515 | long=88.3777 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903968610 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–10:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Food Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.65564 | long=88.35887 | directions=close to the Kali Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-02-06 | content=Vegetarian meals such as chole bhature. }} * {{eat | name=Food Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903943648 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=269/2, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=near Baranagar Police Station | phone=+91 9831736332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Haldiram's Confectioners | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Baranagar Road railway station | phone=+91 33 25780815 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-2PM & 5-9PM| price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62978 | long=88.42090 | directions= | phone=+91 83350 55881 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mahua | alt=মহুয়া ''Mahuẏā'' | url= | email= | address=18/3, KC Ghosh Rd | lat=22.63041 | long=88.38403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Dahi: ₹260 per kg | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 40-year-old shop is known for creamy dahi (দই ''dai''), and it often runs out of dahi every day. }} * {{eat | name=New Sher-e-Punjab Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=131, BT Rd | lat=22.6524 | long=88.3774 | directions=near Indian Statistical Institute | phone=+91 7890101313 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Debalay Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, TN Mukherjee Rd, Dakshineswar | lat=22.65593 | long=88.35908 | directions= | phone=+91 70441 74570 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel Shivangan | alt= | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/fabhotel-shivangan.html | email= | address=VIP Rd, Baguiati | lat=22.6132 | long=88.4294 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2576 2711 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900-2,800 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Fern Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=204, MAR, Rajarhat | lat=22.62192 | long=88.44613 | directions= | phone=+91 70444 77444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,000-4,000 | image=Fern Residency - Hotel - 204 Major Arterial Road - Rajarhat - Kolkata 2017-08-08 3934.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Airport City | alt= | url=http://www.airportcityhotel.in/ | email= | address=259, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65416 | long=88.43538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 3131 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-3,700 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ethnotel | alt= | url=http://ethnotel.in | email= | address=71, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65075 | long=88.43674 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7101 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express | alt= | url= | email= | address=28, Jessore Rd | lat=22.64188 | long=88.43189 | directions= | phone=+91 62899 01724 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Airways | alt= | url= | email= | address=Motilal Colony, Rajbari | lat=22.6467 | long=88.4341 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 2106 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Gateway Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6419 | long=88.4307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2511 8324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=O2 Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Kaikhali| lat=22.6327 | long=88.4343 | directions= | phone= +91 33 25250078, +91 33 25250113 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Orbit Hotel | alt= | url=https://hotelorbit.co.in/ | email= | address=RB 29, VIP Rd, Raghunathpur | lat=22.62089 | long=88.432 | directions= | phone=+91 85840 14256 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | image=Orbit Hotel - RB 29 - VIP Road - Raghunathpur - Kolkata 2017-05-10 7599.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sher-e-Punjab | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Jessore Rd | lat=22.6774 | long=88.4463 | directions= | phone= +91 33 2567 2848, +91 90888 60003 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | content=A hotel-cum-restaurant with quality Punjabi dhaba food. Chinese and Thai dishes are also available. AC or open-air seating. Drinks served. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuap/hoteldetail | email= | address= | lat=22.62319 | long=88.44338 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6699 6699 | tollfree= | checkin=8AM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,270 | wikidata=Q111402426 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/hojo/rajarhat-india/howard-johnson-kolkata/overview | email= | address=Chinar Park | lat=22.623827 | long=88.4425 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6655 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600 | wikidata=Q111402425 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== The Northern Suburbs are one of the most polluted areas of Kolkata. A lot of vehicles travel through Birati and Dunlop crossings; therefore the area is very polluted. Use a mask and a handkerchief for this area. ==Cope== ===Fire stations=== * {{listing | name=Baranagar Fire Station | address=282, Deshpran Shasmal Ave | lat=22.6522 | long=88.3725 | phone=+91 33 25102102 }} ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Airport Police Station | address= | lat=22.64657 | long=88.43668 | phone=+91 33 253193000 }} * {{listing | name=Baranagar Police Station | address=47, BT Rd | lat=22.6362 | long=88.3784 | phone=+91 33 25319300 |lastedit=2023-05-21 }} * {{listing | name=Chitpur Police Station | address=19, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.61853 | long=88.37316 | phone=+91 33 25566141 }} * {{listing | name=Dum Dum Police Station | phone=+91 33 25514167 }} ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Cossipore Head Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.61892 | long=88.37213 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content= }} {{isPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|22.62|88.42|zoom=13}} kl2c3uvuev9af0esmyzpgrbcp6nzt30 5090770 5090769 2025-07-10T12:50:19Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ Updated listing for Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport 5090770 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dakshineswar Mandir pagebanner.JPG|pgname=Northern Suburbs}} The '''Northern Suburbs''' (উত্তর শহরতলি ''Uttar Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the large urbanised industrial area to the north of the city. It is home to the city's sole international airport, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and several other temples and heritage sites. It is also an important food and leisure hub in West Bengal, having a lot of international fast-food chains and shopping malls. ==Understand== ===History=== In the 17th century, Dutch merchants set up a residence at Baranagar and made it a large business hub at that time, and the centre of the jute industry. SInce then, the Northern Suburbs became a major industrial centre for the manufacture of agricultural and industrial machinery, chemicals, castor oil, several jute products, matches, and numerous cotton-processing companies. Other than industry, the suburbs also had a military history. The [[British Raj]] had a major arsenal at Dum Dum which manufactured, among other things, expanding bullets which are still sometimes called "dum-dum bullets". They were later banned in warfare by the Hague Convention as being "too inhumane". Dum Dum, along with [[Barrackpore]], was a major centre of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is rumoured that the paper cartridges provided to Indian soldiers were laced with pig lard or cow fat, resulting to the revolt of the soldiers in Dum Dum Cantonment. However, the importance of Dum Dum in military declined by the late 1920s when Dum Dum Cantonment was closed down and became a municipality. After the partition of India in 1947, the suburban areas began teeming with millions of refugees from East Pakistan, and most of them were converted into planned townships. Due to the rise of trade unionism in the 1970s and 80s, the industry of West Bengal, including the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, faced decline. ===Orientation=== [[File:Night lifestyle@lake town,Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Nighttime view of Lake Town, one of the former refugee colonies.]] The Northern Suburbs consists of numerous suburbs, and are covered by seven urban local bodies: Baranagar, Bidhannagar (BMC), Dum Dum, Kamarhati, Kolkata (KMC), North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum. Locals rarely refer to these municipalities, but rather to one of dozens of suburbs contained in this district. Here are some of those well-known ones: * '''Baranagar''' (বরাহনগর ''Barāhanagar'' or বরানগর ''Barānagar'') * '''Belgharia''' (বেলঘরিয়া ''Belghariẏā'') * '''Dakshineswar''' (দক্ষিণেশ্বর ''Dakṣiṇeśbar'') — nicknamed as the "twin of [[Varanasi]]" and home to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the most important religious shrines for Hindus. People from all over the world visit the temple every day in numbers. Along with the Kali temple, there are other important points of interest, like the Adyapeath temple and Sarada Math. * '''Dum Dum''' (দমদম ''Damdam'') — a major transport hub of Kolkata, alongside [[Howrah]], [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] and [[Kolkata/North|Sealdah]], and home to the city's only international airport. Dum Dum Junction is served by local trains from different locations, and is connected with metro and bus routes. This area covers Dum Dum, North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum municipalities. Certain areas near Salt Lake were once refugee colonies that hosted immigrants from East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). These areas now spot a brighter look. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.63|88.4|width=580|height=500|zoom=13|name=Map of the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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The Northern Suburbs have a well transport chain for travelling, especially near Dakshineswar, Dum Dum, and the VIP Road area. ===By train=== The Northern Suburbs are best visited by local trains. They have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. Local trains to North Suburban stations and beyond depart from Sealdah North and Main terminals. Sealdah&ndash;Ranaghat line is the main line of this district. A branch line runs from {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Dum Dum|city=kolkata|chord link|eastern}}|wikidata=Q15215337}} to [[Bangaon]]. The '''Calcutta Chord Link Line''' {{rint|kolkata|chord}} runs from Dum Dum to [[Dankuni]], on Howrah&ndash;Bardhaman Chord line. ===By metro=== Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} runs along the CC Link Line, with stops at Dum Dum, Noapara, Baranagar, and Dakshineswar. Line {{rint|kolkata|4}} is under construction, and will connect Noapara to the airport. ===By car=== The Northern Suburbs have several highways that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal. The main roads to enter the area from inner Kolkata include Barrackpore Trunk Road (BT Road, SH 1), Jessore Road, and VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani). Belghoria Expressway connects the airport area to the rest of West Bengal. ===By ferry=== * {{go | name=Dakshineswar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65362 | long=88.35749 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=You can enjoy a 20-30 minutes boating ride from Dakshineswar to Belur Math. Sunset on the Hooghly river behind Vivekananda Setu from the bank is superb. In winter you will enjoy the most with the set of dusk and chill wind blowing over your body. }} * {{go | name=Kuthi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.63514 | long=88.36263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A palace on the banks of river Hooghly, established by Dutch merchants in the 17th century, as '''Dutch Kuthi''', one of the heritage sites of Kolkata. The place was named "Kuthi Ghat" after the palace. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Basri Shah Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13059169 | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The oldest mosque in Kolkata, dating back to 1804. }} * {{see | name=Belgachia Villa | alt=Paikpara Rajbari | url= | email= | address=64B, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Belgachia | lat=22.60647 | long=88.38615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28978887 | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=A large garden house. Prince Dwarkanath Tagore bought it from an Italian around 1823. In 1846, when he died in England it was discovered that he was heavily in debt due to his extravagant spending. To pay off his debts, his son Debendranath sold Belgachia Villa and other properties. }} * {{see | name=Clive's House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rastraguru Ave, Nagerbazar | lat=22.626404 | long=88.416153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56152584 | lastedit=2022-09-07 | content=A rather mysterious building, it is considered the first pucca brick and cement building in the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, possibly built by the Portuguese. What is known is that it was used by British soldiers when they first entered the country. Later, Robert Clive took the area over, renovated it, added a floor to the single-storey building, and made it his country house around 1757-60. The house is located on raised ground in otherwise flat surroundings. When Clive House was excavated, a variety of artefacts were recovered, including coins, terracotta figures, sculptures, pottery and intelligence on a Portuguese fort. The articles found could be of the Sena period or may alternatively have links with the ancient [[Chandraketugarh]] civilisation. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Time Zone Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Lake Town | lat=22.60012 | long=88.40668 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=KOLKATA TIME ZONE.JPG | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=A one-third sized replica of the iconic Big Ben in [[London]]. The tower is 30 metres in height, while Big Ben in London is 96 metres. It has ten floors and the four clock faces are each 3.6 metres in diameter, compared to 7 metres in the original. }} ===Ashrams=== [[File:Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar.jpg|thumb|Baranagar Math]] * {{see | name=Alambazar Math | alt= | url=http://alambazarmath.azurewebsites.net/ | email= | address= | lat=22.6473 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alambazar Math | wikidata=Q17001290 | content=Second monastery of Ramakrishna Order. Swami Vivekananda first put up here after coming back from abroad. }} * {{see | name=Baranagar Math | alt= | url=http://www.rkmbaranagar.org | email= | address= | lat=22.631861 | long=88.3675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Baranagar Math | wikidata=Q14947352 | content=First monastery of Ramakrishna Order. After the death of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and some of his other disciples permanently started to live here. Here, they decided to establish Belur Math for the first time. }} * {{see | name=Sri Sarada Math | alt= | url=http://www.srisaradamath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66113 | long=88.35742 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564 5411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=Daily ritual worships are performed here by the nuns. The birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and other personalities are celebrated here, besides the Hindu festivals. Religious discourse and lectures are also done regularly. }} * {{see | name=Udyan Bati | alt=উদ্যানবাটী, Garden House | url= | email= | address=90, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.626267 | long=88.370467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16345231 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A monastery where Sri Ramakrishna lived from 1885 till his death in 1886. ''Kalpataru Utsav'' is celebrated every year at 1 January. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg|thumb|Kripamayee Kali Temple]] * {{see | name=Adyapeath Temple | alt= | url=http://www.adyapeath.com/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66025 | long=88.36335 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564-6999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=A three-pinnacled temple dedicated to goddess Adya, and the centre of a major religious controversy. It is said that Annada Thakur received a divine command that goddess Adya was buried under the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh#Eden Gardens|Eden Gardens]] for thousands of years. He went there in 1928 and allegedly saw the statue of the goddess coming out from the ground. He consecrated the statue as the idol of this temple. But archaeologist Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay found that the statue was sculpted recently and not thousands of years ago, as Annada Thakur claimed. Later, many people got enraged to Thakur's deception, and the devotees of the goddess decided to immerse the statue to the Ganges to prevent further fury. The sanctum of the temple remained void till the consecration of the present idol. }} * {{see | name=Kacher Mandir | alt=Glass Temple | url= | email= | address=1, Pran Krishna Saha Ln | lat=22.639 | long=88.3623 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kripamayee Kali Temple | alt=Joy Mitra Kalibari | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.637 | long=88.363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kripamayee Kali Temple | image=Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg | wikidata=Q6437106 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple of Goddess Kali worshipped as Kripamayee (she who is merciful). There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Mahamilan Math | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/7, PWD Road | lat=22.6518 | long=88.3717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Annapurna Temple and the Omkarnath Temple are two attractions here. }} * {{see | name=Parshwanath Jain Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=26, Khudiram Bose Sarani | lat=22.6057 | long=88.3828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67633842 | lastedit=2022-10-14 | content=Considered one of the most sacred Jain temples of worship in Kolkata. The temple also has a dharamshala equipped with modern facilities. }} * {{see | name=Pathbari Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6415 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A place where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu set his foot on his way to [[Puri]] in the early 16th century. }} ====Dakshineswar Temple Complex==== [[File:Dakshineshwar Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Dakshineswar Kali Temple]] [[File:Dakshineswar temple - panoramio.jpg|thumb|12 Shiva temples]] * {{see | name=Dakshineswar Kali Temple | alt= | url=http://www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.655 | long=88.357778 | directions=matro: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|blue}}, suburban: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|chord}}. Both stations are connected to the temple with about {{m|330}} long skywalk, which provides a good view of the surroundings. | phone=+91 33 2564-5222 | tollfree= | hours=6:00AM-12:30PM and 3:00PM-8:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q1157765 | lastedit=2022-07-15 | content=A huge temple complex with the famous Hindu ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here as Ma Bhavatarini. The temple complex was inaugurated by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the head and only priest of this temple from 1856 to 1886. He spent most of his life in the ''nahabat khānā'' (corruption of ''naubat xānā'', meaning "drum house") chamber of the temple complex. After Ramakrishna's death, the temple complex had been taken over by the then-Government of Bengal, later the Government of West Bengal. It attracts thousands of worshipers around the year, especially on the day of Shyama Puja, Shiva Chaturdashi, Poyla Boishakh, Akshaya Tritiya, New Year's Day and Kalpataru Utsava. Beside the main temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Hooghly River and a bathing ghat. Because of the temple's importance and the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, flowing by, it is also regarded as a twin of [[Varanasi]] by the locals. }} * {{see | name=Panchavati | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65638 | long=88.35716 | directions=north of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=A complex of trees consisting of banyan (''vaṭa''), peepal (''ashvattha''), neem (''nimba''), amla (''āmlakī'') and wood apple (''bilva'') trees. This is where Ramakrishna performed his advaitic sādhanā in 1865. }} * {{see | name=Rani Rashmoni Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65554 | long=88.35738 | directions=next to the gate of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=The shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple. }} ===Bridges=== * {{marker|type=see|name=Nivedita Setu|wikidata=Q7041769}} and {{marker|type=see|name=Vivekananda Setu|wikidata=Q844900}} — Two bridges across the Hooghly River, {{m|50}} apart. Vivekenanda Setu is a {{m|880}} long rail-cum-road bridge, built in 1932 as Willingdon Bridge and later renamed after Swami Vivekananda. Nivedita Setu is a newer cable-stayed bridge, named after the female disciple of Swami Vivekananda. ==Do== [[File:BRkM-6.jpg|thumb|Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission]] * {{do | name=Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission | alt=BRKM | url=http://rkmbaranagore.org | email=brkmreunion@gmail.com | address=37, Gopal Lal Tagore Rd, Baranagar | lat=22.6345 | long=88.370436 | directions= | phone=+91-33-2556-3817 | tollfree= | fax=+91-33-2556-3817 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19882251 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by Yogindranath Tagore (the disciple of Swami Brahmananda) in 1912. This institution celebrates many cultural programmes throughout the year. Many people come to watch those cultural events every year. }} * {{do | name=Narayani Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=15, Surya Sen Rd | lat=22.6491 | long=88.3635 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sinthee More Ground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=Hosts various local events throughout the year, including "Ajanta Circus" every winter. }} * {{do | name=Sonali Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sreebhumi Sporting Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lake Town | lat=22.59904 | long=88.40285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content=The club holds some of the best Durga Puja pandals in Greater Kolkata every year, with a huge crowd gathering during the festive season. }} ==Learn== [[File:Isical01.jpg|thumb|Indian Statistical Institute]] * {{listing | name=Indian Statistical Institute | alt=ISI | url=http://www.isical.ac.in/ | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.6482 | long=88.3768 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3105568 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by the statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1932, the institute is often considered one of the foremost centres in the world for training and research in statistics. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Chandrani Pearls | alt= | url= | email= | address=153/1, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3779 | directions={{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 33 25789025 | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM - 9PM | price= | content=Ornaments of pearls. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.diamondplaza.in/ | email= | address=68, Jessore Rd, Satgachi | lat=22.61551 | long=88.41209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Diamond plaza.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Nagerbazar | alt=নাগেরবাজার ''Nāgerbājār'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.622984 | long=88.414267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15260775 | lastedit=2025-01-03 | content=A major shopping centre in Dum Dum, at the crossroads of Dum Dum Rd and Jessore Rd. }} * {{buy | name=Saltee Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jessore Rd | lat=22.62485 | long=88.41729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Saltee Plaza - Jessore Road - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2017-08-08 4000.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ==Eat and drink== Major food chains include '''Wow Momo''' (140, BT Rd). Major cafe chains include '''Cafe Coffee Day''' (BT Rd). You also can get lassi in several sweets shops, in '''Anandamayee Sweets''' many kinds of lassi like mango, dahi etc. are available. In the Alambazar area, you could get lassi in a sweet shop. In the Dunlop area, near Baranagar railway station and Sonali cinema hall, several fruit juice shops are available. You can also visit "Dunlop Coffee House" for coffee. * {{eat | name=Anandamayee Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=209, BT Rd | lat=22.6412 | long=88.3778 | directions= | phone=+91 2577 0120 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content=Traditional Bengal sweets, curd (in Bengali "doi"), ice cream, dhokla, lassi. }} * {{eat | name=The Cric World | alt= | url= | email= | address=44/51, BT Rd | lat=22.6339 | long=88.3785 | directions= | phone=+91 9830415213 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 11PM | price= | content=Multi-cuisine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Dhaka Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6515 | long=88.3777 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903968610 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–10:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Food Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.65564 | long=88.35887 | directions=close to the Kali Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-02-06 | content=Vegetarian meals such as chole bhature. }} * {{eat | name=Food Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903943648 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=269/2, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=near Baranagar Police Station | phone=+91 9831736332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Haldiram's Confectioners | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Baranagar Road railway station | phone=+91 33 25780815 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-2PM & 5-9PM| price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62978 | long=88.42090 | directions= | phone=+91 83350 55881 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mahua | alt=মহুয়া ''Mahuẏā'' | url= | email= | address=18/3, KC Ghosh Rd | lat=22.63041 | long=88.38403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Dahi: ₹260 per kg | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 40-year-old shop is known for creamy dahi (দই ''dai''), and it often runs out of dahi every day. }} * {{eat | name=New Sher-e-Punjab Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=131, BT Rd | lat=22.6524 | long=88.3774 | directions=near Indian Statistical Institute | phone=+91 7890101313 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Debalay Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, TN Mukherjee Rd, Dakshineswar | lat=22.65593 | long=88.35908 | directions= | phone=+91 70441 74570 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel Shivangan | alt= | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/fabhotel-shivangan.html | email= | address=VIP Rd, Baguiati | lat=22.6132 | long=88.4294 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2576 2711 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900-2,800 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Fern Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=204, MAR, Rajarhat | lat=22.62192 | long=88.44613 | directions= | phone=+91 70444 77444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,000-4,000 | image=Fern Residency - Hotel - 204 Major Arterial Road - Rajarhat - Kolkata 2017-08-08 3934.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Airport City | alt= | url=http://www.airportcityhotel.in/ | email= | address=259, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65416 | long=88.43538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 3131 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-3,700 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ethnotel | alt= | url=http://ethnotel.in | email= | address=71, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65075 | long=88.43674 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7101 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuka/hoteldetail | email= | address=28, Jessore Rd | lat=22.641842 | long=88.43225 | directions= | phone=+91 62899 01724, +91 33 6815 1234 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,660 | wikidata=Q111861625 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Airways | alt= | url= | email= | address=Motilal Colony, Rajbari | lat=22.6467 | long=88.4341 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 2106 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Gateway Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6419 | long=88.4307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2511 8324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=O2 Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Kaikhali| lat=22.6327 | long=88.4343 | directions= | phone= +91 33 25250078, +91 33 25250113 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Orbit Hotel | alt= | url=https://hotelorbit.co.in/ | email= | address=RB 29, VIP Rd, Raghunathpur | lat=22.62089 | long=88.432 | directions= | phone=+91 85840 14256 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | image=Orbit Hotel - RB 29 - VIP Road - Raghunathpur - Kolkata 2017-05-10 7599.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sher-e-Punjab | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Jessore Rd | lat=22.6774 | long=88.4463 | directions= | phone= +91 33 2567 2848, +91 90888 60003 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | content=A hotel-cum-restaurant with quality Punjabi dhaba food. Chinese and Thai dishes are also available. AC or open-air seating. Drinks served. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuap/hoteldetail | email= | address= | lat=22.62319 | long=88.44338 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6699 6699 | tollfree= | checkin=8AM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,270 | wikidata=Q111402426 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/hojo/rajarhat-india/howard-johnson-kolkata/overview | email= | address=Chinar Park | lat=22.623827 | long=88.4425 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6655 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600 | wikidata=Q111402425 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== The Northern Suburbs are one of the most polluted areas of Kolkata. A lot of vehicles travel through Birati and Dunlop crossings; therefore the area is very polluted. Use a mask and a handkerchief for this area. ==Cope== ===Fire stations=== * {{listing | name=Baranagar Fire Station | address=282, Deshpran Shasmal Ave | lat=22.6522 | long=88.3725 | phone=+91 33 25102102 }} ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Airport Police Station | address= | lat=22.64657 | long=88.43668 | phone=+91 33 253193000 }} * {{listing | name=Baranagar Police Station | address=47, BT Rd | lat=22.6362 | long=88.3784 | phone=+91 33 25319300 |lastedit=2023-05-21 }} * {{listing | name=Chitpur Police Station | address=19, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.61853 | long=88.37316 | phone=+91 33 25566141 }} * {{listing | name=Dum Dum Police Station | phone=+91 33 25514167 }} ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Cossipore Head Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.61892 | long=88.37213 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content= }} {{isPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|22.62|88.42|zoom=13}} lzqzvg63pitrodhjfxd5lsn3733n8q7 5090771 5090770 2025-07-10T12:50:51Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ Updated listing for Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport 5090771 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dakshineswar Mandir pagebanner.JPG|pgname=Northern Suburbs}} The '''Northern Suburbs''' (উত্তর শহরতলি ''Uttar Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the large urbanised industrial area to the north of the city. It is home to the city's sole international airport, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and several other temples and heritage sites. It is also an important food and leisure hub in West Bengal, having a lot of international fast-food chains and shopping malls. ==Understand== ===History=== In the 17th century, Dutch merchants set up a residence at Baranagar and made it a large business hub at that time, and the centre of the jute industry. SInce then, the Northern Suburbs became a major industrial centre for the manufacture of agricultural and industrial machinery, chemicals, castor oil, several jute products, matches, and numerous cotton-processing companies. Other than industry, the suburbs also had a military history. The [[British Raj]] had a major arsenal at Dum Dum which manufactured, among other things, expanding bullets which are still sometimes called "dum-dum bullets". They were later banned in warfare by the Hague Convention as being "too inhumane". Dum Dum, along with [[Barrackpore]], was a major centre of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is rumoured that the paper cartridges provided to Indian soldiers were laced with pig lard or cow fat, resulting to the revolt of the soldiers in Dum Dum Cantonment. However, the importance of Dum Dum in military declined by the late 1920s when Dum Dum Cantonment was closed down and became a municipality. After the partition of India in 1947, the suburban areas began teeming with millions of refugees from East Pakistan, and most of them were converted into planned townships. Due to the rise of trade unionism in the 1970s and 80s, the industry of West Bengal, including the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, faced decline. ===Orientation=== [[File:Night lifestyle@lake town,Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Nighttime view of Lake Town, one of the former refugee colonies.]] The Northern Suburbs consists of numerous suburbs, and are covered by seven urban local bodies: Baranagar, Bidhannagar (BMC), Dum Dum, Kamarhati, Kolkata (KMC), North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum. Locals rarely refer to these municipalities, but rather to one of dozens of suburbs contained in this district. Here are some of those well-known ones: * '''Baranagar''' (বরাহনগর ''Barāhanagar'' or বরানগর ''Barānagar'') * '''Belgharia''' (বেলঘরিয়া ''Belghariẏā'') * '''Dakshineswar''' (দক্ষিণেশ্বর ''Dakṣiṇeśbar'') — nicknamed as the "twin of [[Varanasi]]" and home to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the most important religious shrines for Hindus. People from all over the world visit the temple every day in numbers. Along with the Kali temple, there are other important points of interest, like the Adyapeath temple and Sarada Math. * '''Dum Dum''' (দমদম ''Damdam'') — a major transport hub of Kolkata, alongside [[Howrah]], [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] and [[Kolkata/North|Sealdah]], and home to the city's only international airport. Dum Dum Junction is served by local trains from different locations, and is connected with metro and bus routes. This area covers Dum Dum, North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum municipalities. Certain areas near Salt Lake were once refugee colonies that hosted immigrants from East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). These areas now spot a brighter look. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.63|88.4|width=580|height=500|zoom=13|name=Map of the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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The Northern Suburbs have a well transport chain for travelling, especially near Dakshineswar, Dum Dum, and the VIP Road area. ===By train=== The Northern Suburbs are best visited by local trains. They have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. Local trains to North Suburban stations and beyond depart from Sealdah North and Main terminals. Sealdah&ndash;Ranaghat line is the main line of this district. A branch line runs from {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Dum Dum|city=kolkata|chord link|eastern}}|wikidata=Q15215337}} to [[Bangaon]]. The '''Calcutta Chord Link Line''' {{rint|kolkata|chord}} runs from Dum Dum to [[Dankuni]], on Howrah&ndash;Bardhaman Chord line. ===By metro=== Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} runs along the CC Link Line, with stops at Dum Dum, Noapara, Baranagar, and Dakshineswar. Line {{rint|kolkata|4}} is under construction, and will connect Noapara to the airport. ===By car=== The Northern Suburbs have several highways that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal. The main roads to enter the area from inner Kolkata include Barrackpore Trunk Road (BT Road, SH 1), Jessore Road, and VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani). Belghoria Expressway connects the airport area to the rest of West Bengal. ===By ferry=== * {{go | name=Dakshineswar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65362 | long=88.35749 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=You can enjoy a 20-30 minutes boating ride from Dakshineswar to Belur Math. Sunset on the Hooghly river behind Vivekananda Setu from the bank is superb. In winter you will enjoy the most with the set of dusk and chill wind blowing over your body. }} * {{go | name=Kuthi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.63514 | long=88.36263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A palace on the banks of river Hooghly, established by Dutch merchants in the 17th century, as '''Dutch Kuthi''', one of the heritage sites of Kolkata. The place was named "Kuthi Ghat" after the palace. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Basri Shah Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13059169 | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The oldest mosque in Kolkata, dating back to 1804. }} * {{see | name=Belgachia Villa | alt=Paikpara Rajbari | url= | email= | address=64B, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Belgachia | lat=22.60647 | long=88.38615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28978887 | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=A large garden house. Prince Dwarkanath Tagore bought it from an Italian around 1823. In 1846, when he died in England it was discovered that he was heavily in debt due to his extravagant spending. To pay off his debts, his son Debendranath sold Belgachia Villa and other properties. }} * {{see | name=Clive's House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rastraguru Ave, Nagerbazar | lat=22.626404 | long=88.416153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56152584 | lastedit=2022-09-07 | content=A rather mysterious building, it is considered the first pucca brick and cement building in the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, possibly built by the Portuguese. What is known is that it was used by British soldiers when they first entered the country. Later, Robert Clive took the area over, renovated it, added a floor to the single-storey building, and made it his country house around 1757-60. The house is located on raised ground in otherwise flat surroundings. When Clive House was excavated, a variety of artefacts were recovered, including coins, terracotta figures, sculptures, pottery and intelligence on a Portuguese fort. The articles found could be of the Sena period or may alternatively have links with the ancient [[Chandraketugarh]] civilisation. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Time Zone Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Lake Town | lat=22.60012 | long=88.40668 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=KOLKATA TIME ZONE.JPG | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=A one-third sized replica of the iconic Big Ben in [[London]]. The tower is 30 metres in height, while Big Ben in London is 96 metres. It has ten floors and the four clock faces are each 3.6 metres in diameter, compared to 7 metres in the original. }} ===Ashrams=== [[File:Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar.jpg|thumb|Baranagar Math]] * {{see | name=Alambazar Math | alt= | url=http://alambazarmath.azurewebsites.net/ | email= | address= | lat=22.6473 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alambazar Math | wikidata=Q17001290 | content=Second monastery of Ramakrishna Order. Swami Vivekananda first put up here after coming back from abroad. }} * {{see | name=Baranagar Math | alt= | url=http://www.rkmbaranagar.org | email= | address= | lat=22.631861 | long=88.3675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Baranagar Math | wikidata=Q14947352 | content=First monastery of Ramakrishna Order. After the death of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and some of his other disciples permanently started to live here. Here, they decided to establish Belur Math for the first time. }} * {{see | name=Sri Sarada Math | alt= | url=http://www.srisaradamath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66113 | long=88.35742 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564 5411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=Daily ritual worships are performed here by the nuns. The birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and other personalities are celebrated here, besides the Hindu festivals. Religious discourse and lectures are also done regularly. }} * {{see | name=Udyan Bati | alt=উদ্যানবাটী, Garden House | url= | email= | address=90, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.626267 | long=88.370467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16345231 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A monastery where Sri Ramakrishna lived from 1885 till his death in 1886. ''Kalpataru Utsav'' is celebrated every year at 1 January. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg|thumb|Kripamayee Kali Temple]] * {{see | name=Adyapeath Temple | alt= | url=http://www.adyapeath.com/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66025 | long=88.36335 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564-6999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=A three-pinnacled temple dedicated to goddess Adya, and the centre of a major religious controversy. It is said that Annada Thakur received a divine command that goddess Adya was buried under the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh#Eden Gardens|Eden Gardens]] for thousands of years. He went there in 1928 and allegedly saw the statue of the goddess coming out from the ground. He consecrated the statue as the idol of this temple. But archaeologist Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay found that the statue was sculpted recently and not thousands of years ago, as Annada Thakur claimed. Later, many people got enraged to Thakur's deception, and the devotees of the goddess decided to immerse the statue to the Ganges to prevent further fury. The sanctum of the temple remained void till the consecration of the present idol. }} * {{see | name=Kacher Mandir | alt=Glass Temple | url= | email= | address=1, Pran Krishna Saha Ln | lat=22.639 | long=88.3623 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kripamayee Kali Temple | alt=Joy Mitra Kalibari | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.637 | long=88.363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kripamayee Kali Temple | image=Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg | wikidata=Q6437106 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple of Goddess Kali worshipped as Kripamayee (she who is merciful). There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Mahamilan Math | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/7, PWD Road | lat=22.6518 | long=88.3717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Annapurna Temple and the Omkarnath Temple are two attractions here. }} * {{see | name=Parshwanath Jain Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=26, Khudiram Bose Sarani | lat=22.6057 | long=88.3828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67633842 | lastedit=2022-10-14 | content=Considered one of the most sacred Jain temples of worship in Kolkata. The temple also has a dharamshala equipped with modern facilities. }} * {{see | name=Pathbari Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6415 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A place where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu set his foot on his way to [[Puri]] in the early 16th century. }} ====Dakshineswar Temple Complex==== [[File:Dakshineshwar Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Dakshineswar Kali Temple]] [[File:Dakshineswar temple - panoramio.jpg|thumb|12 Shiva temples]] * {{see | name=Dakshineswar Kali Temple | alt= | url=http://www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.655 | long=88.357778 | directions=matro: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|blue}}, suburban: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|chord}}. Both stations are connected to the temple with about {{m|330}} long skywalk, which provides a good view of the surroundings. | phone=+91 33 2564-5222 | tollfree= | hours=6:00AM-12:30PM and 3:00PM-8:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q1157765 | lastedit=2022-07-15 | content=A huge temple complex with the famous Hindu ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here as Ma Bhavatarini. The temple complex was inaugurated by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the head and only priest of this temple from 1856 to 1886. He spent most of his life in the ''nahabat khānā'' (corruption of ''naubat xānā'', meaning "drum house") chamber of the temple complex. After Ramakrishna's death, the temple complex had been taken over by the then-Government of Bengal, later the Government of West Bengal. It attracts thousands of worshipers around the year, especially on the day of Shyama Puja, Shiva Chaturdashi, Poyla Boishakh, Akshaya Tritiya, New Year's Day and Kalpataru Utsava. Beside the main temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Hooghly River and a bathing ghat. Because of the temple's importance and the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, flowing by, it is also regarded as a twin of [[Varanasi]] by the locals. }} * {{see | name=Panchavati | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65638 | long=88.35716 | directions=north of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=A complex of trees consisting of banyan (''vaṭa''), peepal (''ashvattha''), neem (''nimba''), amla (''āmlakī'') and wood apple (''bilva'') trees. This is where Ramakrishna performed his advaitic sādhanā in 1865. }} * {{see | name=Rani Rashmoni Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65554 | long=88.35738 | directions=next to the gate of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=The shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple. }} ===Bridges=== * {{marker|type=see|name=Nivedita Setu|wikidata=Q7041769}} and {{marker|type=see|name=Vivekananda Setu|wikidata=Q844900}} — Two bridges across the Hooghly River, {{m|50}} apart. Vivekenanda Setu is a {{m|880}} long rail-cum-road bridge, built in 1932 as Willingdon Bridge and later renamed after Swami Vivekananda. Nivedita Setu is a newer cable-stayed bridge, named after the female disciple of Swami Vivekananda. ==Do== [[File:BRkM-6.jpg|thumb|Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission]] * {{do | name=Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission | alt=BRKM | url=http://rkmbaranagore.org | email=brkmreunion@gmail.com | address=37, Gopal Lal Tagore Rd, Baranagar | lat=22.6345 | long=88.370436 | directions= | phone=+91-33-2556-3817 | tollfree= | fax=+91-33-2556-3817 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19882251 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by Yogindranath Tagore (the disciple of Swami Brahmananda) in 1912. This institution celebrates many cultural programmes throughout the year. Many people come to watch those cultural events every year. }} * {{do | name=Narayani Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=15, Surya Sen Rd | lat=22.6491 | long=88.3635 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sinthee More Ground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=Hosts various local events throughout the year, including "Ajanta Circus" every winter. }} * {{do | name=Sonali Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sreebhumi Sporting Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lake Town | lat=22.59904 | long=88.40285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content=The club holds some of the best Durga Puja pandals in Greater Kolkata every year, with a huge crowd gathering during the festive season. }} ==Learn== [[File:Isical01.jpg|thumb|Indian Statistical Institute]] * {{listing | name=Indian Statistical Institute | alt=ISI | url=http://www.isical.ac.in/ | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.6482 | long=88.3768 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3105568 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by the statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1932, the institute is often considered one of the foremost centres in the world for training and research in statistics. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Chandrani Pearls | alt= | url= | email= | address=153/1, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3779 | directions={{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 33 25789025 | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM - 9PM | price= | content=Ornaments of pearls. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.diamondplaza.in/ | email= | address=68, Jessore Rd, Satgachi | lat=22.61551 | long=88.41209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Diamond plaza.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Nagerbazar | alt=নাগেরবাজার ''Nāgerbājār'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.622984 | long=88.414267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15260775 | lastedit=2025-01-03 | content=A major shopping centre in Dum Dum, at the crossroads of Dum Dum Rd and Jessore Rd. }} * {{buy | name=Saltee Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jessore Rd | lat=22.62485 | long=88.41729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Saltee Plaza - Jessore Road - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2017-08-08 4000.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ==Eat and drink== Major food chains include '''Wow Momo''' (140, BT Rd). Major cafe chains include '''Cafe Coffee Day''' (BT Rd). You also can get lassi in several sweets shops, in '''Anandamayee Sweets''' many kinds of lassi like mango, dahi etc. are available. In the Alambazar area, you could get lassi in a sweet shop. In the Dunlop area, near Baranagar railway station and Sonali cinema hall, several fruit juice shops are available. You can also visit "Dunlop Coffee House" for coffee. * {{eat | name=Anandamayee Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=209, BT Rd | lat=22.6412 | long=88.3778 | directions= | phone=+91 2577 0120 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content=Traditional Bengal sweets, curd (in Bengali "doi"), ice cream, dhokla, lassi. }} * {{eat | name=The Cric World | alt= | url= | email= | address=44/51, BT Rd | lat=22.6339 | long=88.3785 | directions= | phone=+91 9830415213 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 11PM | price= | content=Multi-cuisine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Dhaka Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6515 | long=88.3777 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903968610 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–10:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Food Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.65564 | long=88.35887 | directions=close to the Kali Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-02-06 | content=Vegetarian meals such as chole bhature. }} * {{eat | name=Food Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903943648 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=269/2, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=near Baranagar Police Station | phone=+91 9831736332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Haldiram's Confectioners | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Baranagar Road railway station | phone=+91 33 25780815 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-2PM & 5-9PM| price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62978 | long=88.42090 | directions= | phone=+91 83350 55881 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mahua | alt=মহুয়া ''Mahuẏā'' | url= | email= | address=18/3, KC Ghosh Rd | lat=22.63041 | long=88.38403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Dahi: ₹260 per kg | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 40-year-old shop is known for creamy dahi (দই ''dai''), and it often runs out of dahi every day. }} * {{eat | name=New Sher-e-Punjab Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=131, BT Rd | lat=22.6524 | long=88.3774 | directions=near Indian Statistical Institute | phone=+91 7890101313 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Debalay Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, TN Mukherjee Rd, Dakshineswar | lat=22.65593 | long=88.35908 | directions= | phone=+91 70441 74570 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel Shivangan | alt= | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/fabhotel-shivangan.html | email= | address=VIP Rd, Baguiati | lat=22.6132 | long=88.4294 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2576 2711 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900-2,800 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Fern Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=204, MAR, Rajarhat | lat=22.62192 | long=88.44613 | directions= | phone=+91 70444 77444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,000-4,000 | image=Fern Residency - Hotel - 204 Major Arterial Road - Rajarhat - Kolkata 2017-08-08 3934.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Airport City | alt= | url=http://www.airportcityhotel.in/ | email= | address=259, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65416 | long=88.43538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 3131 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-3,700 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ethnotel | alt= | url=http://ethnotel.in | email= | address=71, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65075 | long=88.43674 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7101 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuka/hoteldetail | email= | address=28, Jessore Rd | lat=22.641842 | long=88.43225 | directions= | phone=+91 62899 01724, +91 33 6815 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4,660 | wikidata=Q111861625 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Airways | alt= | url= | email= | address=Motilal Colony, Rajbari | lat=22.6467 | long=88.4341 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 2106 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Gateway Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6419 | long=88.4307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2511 8324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=O2 Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Kaikhali| lat=22.6327 | long=88.4343 | directions= | phone= +91 33 25250078, +91 33 25250113 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Orbit Hotel | alt= | url=https://hotelorbit.co.in/ | email= | address=RB 29, VIP Rd, Raghunathpur | lat=22.62089 | long=88.432 | directions= | phone=+91 85840 14256 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | image=Orbit Hotel - RB 29 - VIP Road - Raghunathpur - Kolkata 2017-05-10 7599.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sher-e-Punjab | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Jessore Rd | lat=22.6774 | long=88.4463 | directions= | phone= +91 33 2567 2848, +91 90888 60003 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | content=A hotel-cum-restaurant with quality Punjabi dhaba food. Chinese and Thai dishes are also available. AC or open-air seating. Drinks served. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuap/hoteldetail | email= | address= | lat=22.62319 | long=88.44338 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6699 6699 | tollfree= | checkin=8AM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,270 | wikidata=Q111402426 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/hojo/rajarhat-india/howard-johnson-kolkata/overview | email= | address=Chinar Park | lat=22.623827 | long=88.4425 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6655 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600 | wikidata=Q111402425 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== The Northern Suburbs are one of the most polluted areas of Kolkata. A lot of vehicles travel through Birati and Dunlop crossings; therefore the area is very polluted. Use a mask and a handkerchief for this area. ==Cope== ===Fire stations=== * {{listing | name=Baranagar Fire Station | address=282, Deshpran Shasmal Ave | lat=22.6522 | long=88.3725 | phone=+91 33 25102102 }} ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Airport Police Station | address= | lat=22.64657 | long=88.43668 | phone=+91 33 253193000 }} * {{listing | name=Baranagar Police Station | address=47, BT Rd | lat=22.6362 | long=88.3784 | phone=+91 33 25319300 |lastedit=2023-05-21 }} * {{listing | name=Chitpur Police Station | address=19, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.61853 | long=88.37316 | phone=+91 33 25566141 }} * {{listing | name=Dum Dum Police Station | phone=+91 33 25514167 }} ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Cossipore Head Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.61892 | long=88.37213 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content= }} {{isPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|22.62|88.42|zoom=13}} 4hama0m1ej06ohkatzhkj1swdcmdvot 5090772 5090771 2025-07-10T12:51:18Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Sleep */ 5090772 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dakshineswar Mandir pagebanner.JPG|pgname=Northern Suburbs}} The '''Northern Suburbs''' (উত্তর শহরতলি ''Uttar Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the large urbanised industrial area to the north of the city. It is home to the city's sole international airport, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and several other temples and heritage sites. It is also an important food and leisure hub in West Bengal, having a lot of international fast-food chains and shopping malls. ==Understand== ===History=== In the 17th century, Dutch merchants set up a residence at Baranagar and made it a large business hub at that time, and the centre of the jute industry. SInce then, the Northern Suburbs became a major industrial centre for the manufacture of agricultural and industrial machinery, chemicals, castor oil, several jute products, matches, and numerous cotton-processing companies. Other than industry, the suburbs also had a military history. The [[British Raj]] had a major arsenal at Dum Dum which manufactured, among other things, expanding bullets which are still sometimes called "dum-dum bullets". They were later banned in warfare by the Hague Convention as being "too inhumane". Dum Dum, along with [[Barrackpore]], was a major centre of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is rumoured that the paper cartridges provided to Indian soldiers were laced with pig lard or cow fat, resulting to the revolt of the soldiers in Dum Dum Cantonment. However, the importance of Dum Dum in military declined by the late 1920s when Dum Dum Cantonment was closed down and became a municipality. After the partition of India in 1947, the suburban areas began teeming with millions of refugees from East Pakistan, and most of them were converted into planned townships. Due to the rise of trade unionism in the 1970s and 80s, the industry of West Bengal, including the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, faced decline. ===Orientation=== [[File:Night lifestyle@lake town,Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Nighttime view of Lake Town, one of the former refugee colonies.]] The Northern Suburbs consists of numerous suburbs, and are covered by seven urban local bodies: Baranagar, Bidhannagar (BMC), Dum Dum, Kamarhati, Kolkata (KMC), North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum. Locals rarely refer to these municipalities, but rather to one of dozens of suburbs contained in this district. Here are some of those well-known ones: * '''Baranagar''' (বরাহনগর ''Barāhanagar'' or বরানগর ''Barānagar'') * '''Belgharia''' (বেলঘরিয়া ''Belghariẏā'') * '''Dakshineswar''' (দক্ষিণেশ্বর ''Dakṣiṇeśbar'') — nicknamed as the "twin of [[Varanasi]]" and home to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the most important religious shrines for Hindus. People from all over the world visit the temple every day in numbers. Along with the Kali temple, there are other important points of interest, like the Adyapeath temple and Sarada Math. * '''Dum Dum''' (দমদম ''Damdam'') — a major transport hub of Kolkata, alongside [[Howrah]], [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] and [[Kolkata/North|Sealdah]], and home to the city's only international airport. Dum Dum Junction is served by local trains from different locations, and is connected with metro and bus routes. This area covers Dum Dum, North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum municipalities. Certain areas near Salt Lake were once refugee colonies that hosted immigrants from East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). These areas now spot a brighter look. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.63|88.4|width=580|height=500|zoom=13|name=Map of the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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The Northern Suburbs have a well transport chain for travelling, especially near Dakshineswar, Dum Dum, and the VIP Road area. ===By train=== The Northern Suburbs are best visited by local trains. They have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. Local trains to North Suburban stations and beyond depart from Sealdah North and Main terminals. Sealdah&ndash;Ranaghat line is the main line of this district. A branch line runs from {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Dum Dum|city=kolkata|chord link|eastern}}|wikidata=Q15215337}} to [[Bangaon]]. The '''Calcutta Chord Link Line''' {{rint|kolkata|chord}} runs from Dum Dum to [[Dankuni]], on Howrah&ndash;Bardhaman Chord line. ===By metro=== Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} runs along the CC Link Line, with stops at Dum Dum, Noapara, Baranagar, and Dakshineswar. Line {{rint|kolkata|4}} is under construction, and will connect Noapara to the airport. ===By car=== The Northern Suburbs have several highways that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal. The main roads to enter the area from inner Kolkata include Barrackpore Trunk Road (BT Road, SH 1), Jessore Road, and VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani). Belghoria Expressway connects the airport area to the rest of West Bengal. ===By ferry=== * {{go | name=Dakshineswar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65362 | long=88.35749 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=You can enjoy a 20-30 minutes boating ride from Dakshineswar to Belur Math. Sunset on the Hooghly river behind Vivekananda Setu from the bank is superb. In winter you will enjoy the most with the set of dusk and chill wind blowing over your body. }} * {{go | name=Kuthi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.63514 | long=88.36263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A palace on the banks of river Hooghly, established by Dutch merchants in the 17th century, as '''Dutch Kuthi''', one of the heritage sites of Kolkata. The place was named "Kuthi Ghat" after the palace. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Basri Shah Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13059169 | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The oldest mosque in Kolkata, dating back to 1804. }} * {{see | name=Belgachia Villa | alt=Paikpara Rajbari | url= | email= | address=64B, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Belgachia | lat=22.60647 | long=88.38615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28978887 | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=A large garden house. Prince Dwarkanath Tagore bought it from an Italian around 1823. In 1846, when he died in England it was discovered that he was heavily in debt due to his extravagant spending. To pay off his debts, his son Debendranath sold Belgachia Villa and other properties. }} * {{see | name=Clive's House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rastraguru Ave, Nagerbazar | lat=22.626404 | long=88.416153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56152584 | lastedit=2022-09-07 | content=A rather mysterious building, it is considered the first pucca brick and cement building in the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, possibly built by the Portuguese. What is known is that it was used by British soldiers when they first entered the country. Later, Robert Clive took the area over, renovated it, added a floor to the single-storey building, and made it his country house around 1757-60. The house is located on raised ground in otherwise flat surroundings. When Clive House was excavated, a variety of artefacts were recovered, including coins, terracotta figures, sculptures, pottery and intelligence on a Portuguese fort. The articles found could be of the Sena period or may alternatively have links with the ancient [[Chandraketugarh]] civilisation. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Time Zone Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Lake Town | lat=22.60012 | long=88.40668 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=KOLKATA TIME ZONE.JPG | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=A one-third sized replica of the iconic Big Ben in [[London]]. The tower is 30 metres in height, while Big Ben in London is 96 metres. It has ten floors and the four clock faces are each 3.6 metres in diameter, compared to 7 metres in the original. }} ===Ashrams=== [[File:Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar.jpg|thumb|Baranagar Math]] * {{see | name=Alambazar Math | alt= | url=http://alambazarmath.azurewebsites.net/ | email= | address= | lat=22.6473 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alambazar Math | wikidata=Q17001290 | content=Second monastery of Ramakrishna Order. Swami Vivekananda first put up here after coming back from abroad. }} * {{see | name=Baranagar Math | alt= | url=http://www.rkmbaranagar.org | email= | address= | lat=22.631861 | long=88.3675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Baranagar Math | wikidata=Q14947352 | content=First monastery of Ramakrishna Order. After the death of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and some of his other disciples permanently started to live here. Here, they decided to establish Belur Math for the first time. }} * {{see | name=Sri Sarada Math | alt= | url=http://www.srisaradamath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66113 | long=88.35742 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564 5411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=Daily ritual worships are performed here by the nuns. The birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and other personalities are celebrated here, besides the Hindu festivals. Religious discourse and lectures are also done regularly. }} * {{see | name=Udyan Bati | alt=উদ্যানবাটী, Garden House | url= | email= | address=90, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.626267 | long=88.370467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16345231 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A monastery where Sri Ramakrishna lived from 1885 till his death in 1886. ''Kalpataru Utsav'' is celebrated every year at 1 January. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg|thumb|Kripamayee Kali Temple]] * {{see | name=Adyapeath Temple | alt= | url=http://www.adyapeath.com/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66025 | long=88.36335 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564-6999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=A three-pinnacled temple dedicated to goddess Adya, and the centre of a major religious controversy. It is said that Annada Thakur received a divine command that goddess Adya was buried under the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh#Eden Gardens|Eden Gardens]] for thousands of years. He went there in 1928 and allegedly saw the statue of the goddess coming out from the ground. He consecrated the statue as the idol of this temple. But archaeologist Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay found that the statue was sculpted recently and not thousands of years ago, as Annada Thakur claimed. Later, many people got enraged to Thakur's deception, and the devotees of the goddess decided to immerse the statue to the Ganges to prevent further fury. The sanctum of the temple remained void till the consecration of the present idol. }} * {{see | name=Kacher Mandir | alt=Glass Temple | url= | email= | address=1, Pran Krishna Saha Ln | lat=22.639 | long=88.3623 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kripamayee Kali Temple | alt=Joy Mitra Kalibari | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.637 | long=88.363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kripamayee Kali Temple | image=Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg | wikidata=Q6437106 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple of Goddess Kali worshipped as Kripamayee (she who is merciful). There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Mahamilan Math | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/7, PWD Road | lat=22.6518 | long=88.3717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Annapurna Temple and the Omkarnath Temple are two attractions here. }} * {{see | name=Parshwanath Jain Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=26, Khudiram Bose Sarani | lat=22.6057 | long=88.3828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67633842 | lastedit=2022-10-14 | content=Considered one of the most sacred Jain temples of worship in Kolkata. The temple also has a dharamshala equipped with modern facilities. }} * {{see | name=Pathbari Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6415 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A place where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu set his foot on his way to [[Puri]] in the early 16th century. }} ====Dakshineswar Temple Complex==== [[File:Dakshineshwar Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Dakshineswar Kali Temple]] [[File:Dakshineswar temple - panoramio.jpg|thumb|12 Shiva temples]] * {{see | name=Dakshineswar Kali Temple | alt= | url=http://www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.655 | long=88.357778 | directions=matro: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|blue}}, suburban: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|chord}}. Both stations are connected to the temple with about {{m|330}} long skywalk, which provides a good view of the surroundings. | phone=+91 33 2564-5222 | tollfree= | hours=6:00AM-12:30PM and 3:00PM-8:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q1157765 | lastedit=2022-07-15 | content=A huge temple complex with the famous Hindu ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here as Ma Bhavatarini. The temple complex was inaugurated by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the head and only priest of this temple from 1856 to 1886. He spent most of his life in the ''nahabat khānā'' (corruption of ''naubat xānā'', meaning "drum house") chamber of the temple complex. After Ramakrishna's death, the temple complex had been taken over by the then-Government of Bengal, later the Government of West Bengal. It attracts thousands of worshipers around the year, especially on the day of Shyama Puja, Shiva Chaturdashi, Poyla Boishakh, Akshaya Tritiya, New Year's Day and Kalpataru Utsava. Beside the main temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Hooghly River and a bathing ghat. Because of the temple's importance and the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, flowing by, it is also regarded as a twin of [[Varanasi]] by the locals. }} * {{see | name=Panchavati | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65638 | long=88.35716 | directions=north of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=A complex of trees consisting of banyan (''vaṭa''), peepal (''ashvattha''), neem (''nimba''), amla (''āmlakī'') and wood apple (''bilva'') trees. This is where Ramakrishna performed his advaitic sādhanā in 1865. }} * {{see | name=Rani Rashmoni Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65554 | long=88.35738 | directions=next to the gate of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=The shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple. }} ===Bridges=== * {{marker|type=see|name=Nivedita Setu|wikidata=Q7041769}} and {{marker|type=see|name=Vivekananda Setu|wikidata=Q844900}} — Two bridges across the Hooghly River, {{m|50}} apart. Vivekenanda Setu is a {{m|880}} long rail-cum-road bridge, built in 1932 as Willingdon Bridge and later renamed after Swami Vivekananda. Nivedita Setu is a newer cable-stayed bridge, named after the female disciple of Swami Vivekananda. ==Do== [[File:BRkM-6.jpg|thumb|Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission]] * {{do | name=Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission | alt=BRKM | url=http://rkmbaranagore.org | email=brkmreunion@gmail.com | address=37, Gopal Lal Tagore Rd, Baranagar | lat=22.6345 | long=88.370436 | directions= | phone=+91-33-2556-3817 | tollfree= | fax=+91-33-2556-3817 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19882251 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by Yogindranath Tagore (the disciple of Swami Brahmananda) in 1912. This institution celebrates many cultural programmes throughout the year. Many people come to watch those cultural events every year. }} * {{do | name=Narayani Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=15, Surya Sen Rd | lat=22.6491 | long=88.3635 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sinthee More Ground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=Hosts various local events throughout the year, including "Ajanta Circus" every winter. }} * {{do | name=Sonali Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sreebhumi Sporting Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lake Town | lat=22.59904 | long=88.40285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content=The club holds some of the best Durga Puja pandals in Greater Kolkata every year, with a huge crowd gathering during the festive season. }} ==Learn== [[File:Isical01.jpg|thumb|Indian Statistical Institute]] * {{listing | name=Indian Statistical Institute | alt=ISI | url=http://www.isical.ac.in/ | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.6482 | long=88.3768 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3105568 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by the statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1932, the institute is often considered one of the foremost centres in the world for training and research in statistics. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Chandrani Pearls | alt= | url= | email= | address=153/1, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3779 | directions={{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 33 25789025 | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM - 9PM | price= | content=Ornaments of pearls. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.diamondplaza.in/ | email= | address=68, Jessore Rd, Satgachi | lat=22.61551 | long=88.41209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Diamond plaza.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Nagerbazar | alt=নাগেরবাজার ''Nāgerbājār'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.622984 | long=88.414267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15260775 | lastedit=2025-01-03 | content=A major shopping centre in Dum Dum, at the crossroads of Dum Dum Rd and Jessore Rd. }} * {{buy | name=Saltee Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jessore Rd | lat=22.62485 | long=88.41729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Saltee Plaza - Jessore Road - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2017-08-08 4000.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ==Eat and drink== Major food chains include '''Wow Momo''' (140, BT Rd). Major cafe chains include '''Cafe Coffee Day''' (BT Rd). You also can get lassi in several sweets shops, in '''Anandamayee Sweets''' many kinds of lassi like mango, dahi etc. are available. In the Alambazar area, you could get lassi in a sweet shop. In the Dunlop area, near Baranagar railway station and Sonali cinema hall, several fruit juice shops are available. You can also visit "Dunlop Coffee House" for coffee. * {{eat | name=Anandamayee Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=209, BT Rd | lat=22.6412 | long=88.3778 | directions= | phone=+91 2577 0120 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content=Traditional Bengal sweets, curd (in Bengali "doi"), ice cream, dhokla, lassi. }} * {{eat | name=The Cric World | alt= | url= | email= | address=44/51, BT Rd | lat=22.6339 | long=88.3785 | directions= | phone=+91 9830415213 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 11PM | price= | content=Multi-cuisine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Dhaka Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6515 | long=88.3777 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903968610 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–10:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Food Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.65564 | long=88.35887 | directions=close to the Kali Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-02-06 | content=Vegetarian meals such as chole bhature. }} * {{eat | name=Food Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903943648 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=269/2, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=near Baranagar Police Station | phone=+91 9831736332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Haldiram's Confectioners | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Baranagar Road railway station | phone=+91 33 25780815 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-2PM & 5-9PM| price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62978 | long=88.42090 | directions= | phone=+91 83350 55881 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mahua | alt=মহুয়া ''Mahuẏā'' | url= | email= | address=18/3, KC Ghosh Rd | lat=22.63041 | long=88.38403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Dahi: ₹260 per kg | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 40-year-old shop is known for creamy dahi (দই ''dai''), and it often runs out of dahi every day. }} * {{eat | name=New Sher-e-Punjab Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=131, BT Rd | lat=22.6524 | long=88.3774 | directions=near Indian Statistical Institute | phone=+91 7890101313 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Debalay Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, TN Mukherjee Rd, Dakshineswar | lat=22.65593 | long=88.35908 | directions= | phone=+91 70441 74570 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel Shivangan | alt= | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/fabhotel-shivangan.html | email= | address=VIP Rd, Baguiati | lat=22.6132 | long=88.4294 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2576 2711 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900-2,800 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Airport City | alt= | url=http://www.airportcityhotel.in/ | email= | address=259, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65416 | long=88.43538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 3131 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-3,700 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ethnotel | alt= | url=http://ethnotel.in | email= | address=71, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65075 | long=88.43674 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7101 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Fern Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=204, MAR, Rajarhat | lat=22.62192 | long=88.44613 | directions= | phone=+91 70444 77444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,000-4,000 | image=Fern Residency - Hotel - 204 Major Arterial Road - Rajarhat - Kolkata 2017-08-08 3934.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuka/hoteldetail | email= | address=28, Jessore Rd | lat=22.641842 | long=88.43225 | directions= | phone=+91 62899 01724, +91 33 6815 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4,660 | wikidata=Q111861625 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Airways | alt= | url= | email= | address=Motilal Colony, Rajbari | lat=22.6467 | long=88.4341 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 2106 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Gateway Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6419 | long=88.4307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2511 8324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=O2 Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Kaikhali| lat=22.6327 | long=88.4343 | directions= | phone= +91 33 25250078, +91 33 25250113 | tollfree= | fax= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Orbit Hotel | alt= | url=https://hotelorbit.co.in/ | email= | address=RB 29, VIP Rd, Raghunathpur | lat=22.62089 | long=88.432 | directions= | phone=+91 85840 14256 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | image=Orbit Hotel - RB 29 - VIP Road - Raghunathpur - Kolkata 2017-05-10 7599.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sher-e-Punjab | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Jessore Rd | lat=22.6774 | long=88.4463 | directions= | phone= +91 33 2567 2848, +91 90888 60003 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | content=A hotel-cum-restaurant with quality Punjabi dhaba food. Chinese and Thai dishes are also available. AC or open-air seating. Drinks served. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuap/hoteldetail | email= | address= | lat=22.62319 | long=88.44338 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6699 6699 | tollfree= | checkin=8AM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,270 | wikidata=Q111402426 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/hojo/rajarhat-india/howard-johnson-kolkata/overview | email= | address=Chinar Park | lat=22.623827 | long=88.4425 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6655 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600 | wikidata=Q111402425 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== The Northern Suburbs are one of the most polluted areas of Kolkata. A lot of vehicles travel through Birati and Dunlop crossings; therefore the area is very polluted. Use a mask and a handkerchief for this area. ==Cope== ===Fire stations=== * {{listing | name=Baranagar Fire Station | address=282, Deshpran Shasmal Ave | lat=22.6522 | long=88.3725 | phone=+91 33 25102102 }} ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Airport Police Station | address= | lat=22.64657 | long=88.43668 | phone=+91 33 253193000 }} * {{listing | name=Baranagar Police Station | address=47, BT Rd | lat=22.6362 | long=88.3784 | phone=+91 33 25319300 |lastedit=2023-05-21 }} * {{listing | name=Chitpur Police Station | address=19, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.61853 | long=88.37316 | phone=+91 33 25566141 }} * {{listing | name=Dum Dum Police Station | phone=+91 33 25514167 }} ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Cossipore Head Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.61892 | long=88.37213 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content= }} {{isPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|22.62|88.42|zoom=13}} aowa1u8th2ac4062qm8vsdqite4udy4 5090846 5090772 2025-07-10T13:54:41Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ Updated listing for Hotel O2 Oxygen 5090846 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dakshineswar Mandir pagebanner.JPG|pgname=Northern Suburbs}} The '''Northern Suburbs''' (উত্তর শহরতলি ''Uttar Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the large urbanised industrial area to the north of the city. It is home to the city's sole international airport, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and several other temples and heritage sites. It is also an important food and leisure hub in West Bengal, having a lot of international fast-food chains and shopping malls. ==Understand== ===History=== In the 17th century, Dutch merchants set up a residence at Baranagar and made it a large business hub at that time, and the centre of the jute industry. SInce then, the Northern Suburbs became a major industrial centre for the manufacture of agricultural and industrial machinery, chemicals, castor oil, several jute products, matches, and numerous cotton-processing companies. Other than industry, the suburbs also had a military history. The [[British Raj]] had a major arsenal at Dum Dum which manufactured, among other things, expanding bullets which are still sometimes called "dum-dum bullets". They were later banned in warfare by the Hague Convention as being "too inhumane". Dum Dum, along with [[Barrackpore]], was a major centre of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is rumoured that the paper cartridges provided to Indian soldiers were laced with pig lard or cow fat, resulting to the revolt of the soldiers in Dum Dum Cantonment. However, the importance of Dum Dum in military declined by the late 1920s when Dum Dum Cantonment was closed down and became a municipality. After the partition of India in 1947, the suburban areas began teeming with millions of refugees from East Pakistan, and most of them were converted into planned townships. Due to the rise of trade unionism in the 1970s and 80s, the industry of West Bengal, including the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, faced decline. ===Orientation=== [[File:Night lifestyle@lake town,Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Nighttime view of Lake Town, one of the former refugee colonies.]] The Northern Suburbs consists of numerous suburbs, and are covered by seven urban local bodies: Baranagar, Bidhannagar (BMC), Dum Dum, Kamarhati, Kolkata (KMC), North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum. Locals rarely refer to these municipalities, but rather to one of dozens of suburbs contained in this district. Here are some of those well-known ones: * '''Baranagar''' (বরাহনগর ''Barāhanagar'' or বরানগর ''Barānagar'') * '''Belgharia''' (বেলঘরিয়া ''Belghariẏā'') * '''Dakshineswar''' (দক্ষিণেশ্বর ''Dakṣiṇeśbar'') — nicknamed as the "twin of [[Varanasi]]" and home to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the most important religious shrines for Hindus. People from all over the world visit the temple every day in numbers. Along with the Kali temple, there are other important points of interest, like the Adyapeath temple and Sarada Math. * '''Dum Dum''' (দমদম ''Damdam'') — a major transport hub of Kolkata, alongside [[Howrah]], [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] and [[Kolkata/North|Sealdah]], and home to the city's only international airport. Dum Dum Junction is served by local trains from different locations, and is connected with metro and bus routes. This area covers Dum Dum, North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum municipalities. Certain areas near Salt Lake were once refugee colonies that hosted immigrants from East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). These areas now spot a brighter look. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.63|88.4|width=580|height=500|zoom=13|name=Map of the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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The Northern Suburbs have a well transport chain for travelling, especially near Dakshineswar, Dum Dum, and the VIP Road area. ===By train=== The Northern Suburbs are best visited by local trains. They have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. Local trains to North Suburban stations and beyond depart from Sealdah North and Main terminals. Sealdah&ndash;Ranaghat line is the main line of this district. A branch line runs from {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Dum Dum|city=kolkata|chord link|eastern}}|wikidata=Q15215337}} to [[Bangaon]]. The '''Calcutta Chord Link Line''' {{rint|kolkata|chord}} runs from Dum Dum to [[Dankuni]], on Howrah&ndash;Bardhaman Chord line. ===By metro=== Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} runs along the CC Link Line, with stops at Dum Dum, Noapara, Baranagar, and Dakshineswar. Line {{rint|kolkata|4}} is under construction, and will connect Noapara to the airport. ===By car=== The Northern Suburbs have several highways that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal. The main roads to enter the area from inner Kolkata include Barrackpore Trunk Road (BT Road, SH 1), Jessore Road, and VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani). Belghoria Expressway connects the airport area to the rest of West Bengal. ===By ferry=== * {{go | name=Dakshineswar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65362 | long=88.35749 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=You can enjoy a 20-30 minutes boating ride from Dakshineswar to Belur Math. Sunset on the Hooghly river behind Vivekananda Setu from the bank is superb. In winter you will enjoy the most with the set of dusk and chill wind blowing over your body. }} * {{go | name=Kuthi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.63514 | long=88.36263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A palace on the banks of river Hooghly, established by Dutch merchants in the 17th century, as '''Dutch Kuthi''', one of the heritage sites of Kolkata. The place was named "Kuthi Ghat" after the palace. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Basri Shah Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13059169 | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The oldest mosque in Kolkata, dating back to 1804. }} * {{see | name=Belgachia Villa | alt=Paikpara Rajbari | url= | email= | address=64B, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Belgachia | lat=22.60647 | long=88.38615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28978887 | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=A large garden house. Prince Dwarkanath Tagore bought it from an Italian around 1823. In 1846, when he died in England it was discovered that he was heavily in debt due to his extravagant spending. To pay off his debts, his son Debendranath sold Belgachia Villa and other properties. }} * {{see | name=Clive's House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rastraguru Ave, Nagerbazar | lat=22.626404 | long=88.416153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56152584 | lastedit=2022-09-07 | content=A rather mysterious building, it is considered the first pucca brick and cement building in the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, possibly built by the Portuguese. What is known is that it was used by British soldiers when they first entered the country. Later, Robert Clive took the area over, renovated it, added a floor to the single-storey building, and made it his country house around 1757-60. The house is located on raised ground in otherwise flat surroundings. When Clive House was excavated, a variety of artefacts were recovered, including coins, terracotta figures, sculptures, pottery and intelligence on a Portuguese fort. The articles found could be of the Sena period or may alternatively have links with the ancient [[Chandraketugarh]] civilisation. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Time Zone Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Lake Town | lat=22.60012 | long=88.40668 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=KOLKATA TIME ZONE.JPG | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=A one-third sized replica of the iconic Big Ben in [[London]]. The tower is 30 metres in height, while Big Ben in London is 96 metres. It has ten floors and the four clock faces are each 3.6 metres in diameter, compared to 7 metres in the original. }} ===Ashrams=== [[File:Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar.jpg|thumb|Baranagar Math]] * {{see | name=Alambazar Math | alt= | url=http://alambazarmath.azurewebsites.net/ | email= | address= | lat=22.6473 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alambazar Math | wikidata=Q17001290 | content=Second monastery of Ramakrishna Order. Swami Vivekananda first put up here after coming back from abroad. }} * {{see | name=Baranagar Math | alt= | url=http://www.rkmbaranagar.org | email= | address= | lat=22.631861 | long=88.3675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Baranagar Math | wikidata=Q14947352 | content=First monastery of Ramakrishna Order. After the death of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and some of his other disciples permanently started to live here. Here, they decided to establish Belur Math for the first time. }} * {{see | name=Sri Sarada Math | alt= | url=http://www.srisaradamath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66113 | long=88.35742 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564 5411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=Daily ritual worships are performed here by the nuns. The birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and other personalities are celebrated here, besides the Hindu festivals. Religious discourse and lectures are also done regularly. }} * {{see | name=Udyan Bati | alt=উদ্যানবাটী, Garden House | url= | email= | address=90, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.626267 | long=88.370467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16345231 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A monastery where Sri Ramakrishna lived from 1885 till his death in 1886. ''Kalpataru Utsav'' is celebrated every year at 1 January. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg|thumb|Kripamayee Kali Temple]] * {{see | name=Adyapeath Temple | alt= | url=http://www.adyapeath.com/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66025 | long=88.36335 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564-6999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=A three-pinnacled temple dedicated to goddess Adya, and the centre of a major religious controversy. It is said that Annada Thakur received a divine command that goddess Adya was buried under the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh#Eden Gardens|Eden Gardens]] for thousands of years. He went there in 1928 and allegedly saw the statue of the goddess coming out from the ground. He consecrated the statue as the idol of this temple. But archaeologist Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay found that the statue was sculpted recently and not thousands of years ago, as Annada Thakur claimed. Later, many people got enraged to Thakur's deception, and the devotees of the goddess decided to immerse the statue to the Ganges to prevent further fury. The sanctum of the temple remained void till the consecration of the present idol. }} * {{see | name=Kacher Mandir | alt=Glass Temple | url= | email= | address=1, Pran Krishna Saha Ln | lat=22.639 | long=88.3623 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kripamayee Kali Temple | alt=Joy Mitra Kalibari | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.637 | long=88.363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kripamayee Kali Temple | image=Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg | wikidata=Q6437106 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple of Goddess Kali worshipped as Kripamayee (she who is merciful). There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Mahamilan Math | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/7, PWD Road | lat=22.6518 | long=88.3717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Annapurna Temple and the Omkarnath Temple are two attractions here. }} * {{see | name=Parshwanath Jain Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=26, Khudiram Bose Sarani | lat=22.6057 | long=88.3828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67633842 | lastedit=2022-10-14 | content=Considered one of the most sacred Jain temples of worship in Kolkata. The temple also has a dharamshala equipped with modern facilities. }} * {{see | name=Pathbari Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6415 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A place where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu set his foot on his way to [[Puri]] in the early 16th century. }} ====Dakshineswar Temple Complex==== [[File:Dakshineshwar Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Dakshineswar Kali Temple]] [[File:Dakshineswar temple - panoramio.jpg|thumb|12 Shiva temples]] * {{see | name=Dakshineswar Kali Temple | alt= | url=http://www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.655 | long=88.357778 | directions=matro: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|blue}}, suburban: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|chord}}. Both stations are connected to the temple with about {{m|330}} long skywalk, which provides a good view of the surroundings. | phone=+91 33 2564-5222 | tollfree= | hours=6:00AM-12:30PM and 3:00PM-8:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q1157765 | lastedit=2022-07-15 | content=A huge temple complex with the famous Hindu ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here as Ma Bhavatarini. The temple complex was inaugurated by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the head and only priest of this temple from 1856 to 1886. He spent most of his life in the ''nahabat khānā'' (corruption of ''naubat xānā'', meaning "drum house") chamber of the temple complex. After Ramakrishna's death, the temple complex had been taken over by the then-Government of Bengal, later the Government of West Bengal. It attracts thousands of worshipers around the year, especially on the day of Shyama Puja, Shiva Chaturdashi, Poyla Boishakh, Akshaya Tritiya, New Year's Day and Kalpataru Utsava. Beside the main temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Hooghly River and a bathing ghat. Because of the temple's importance and the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, flowing by, it is also regarded as a twin of [[Varanasi]] by the locals. }} * {{see | name=Panchavati | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65638 | long=88.35716 | directions=north of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=A complex of trees consisting of banyan (''vaṭa''), peepal (''ashvattha''), neem (''nimba''), amla (''āmlakī'') and wood apple (''bilva'') trees. This is where Ramakrishna performed his advaitic sādhanā in 1865. }} * {{see | name=Rani Rashmoni Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65554 | long=88.35738 | directions=next to the gate of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=The shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple. }} ===Bridges=== * {{marker|type=see|name=Nivedita Setu|wikidata=Q7041769}} and {{marker|type=see|name=Vivekananda Setu|wikidata=Q844900}} — Two bridges across the Hooghly River, {{m|50}} apart. Vivekenanda Setu is a {{m|880}} long rail-cum-road bridge, built in 1932 as Willingdon Bridge and later renamed after Swami Vivekananda. Nivedita Setu is a newer cable-stayed bridge, named after the female disciple of Swami Vivekananda. ==Do== [[File:BRkM-6.jpg|thumb|Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission]] * {{do | name=Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission | alt=BRKM | url=http://rkmbaranagore.org | email=brkmreunion@gmail.com | address=37, Gopal Lal Tagore Rd, Baranagar | lat=22.6345 | long=88.370436 | directions= | phone=+91-33-2556-3817 | tollfree= | fax=+91-33-2556-3817 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19882251 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by Yogindranath Tagore (the disciple of Swami Brahmananda) in 1912. This institution celebrates many cultural programmes throughout the year. Many people come to watch those cultural events every year. }} * {{do | name=Narayani Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=15, Surya Sen Rd | lat=22.6491 | long=88.3635 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sinthee More Ground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=Hosts various local events throughout the year, including "Ajanta Circus" every winter. }} * {{do | name=Sonali Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sreebhumi Sporting Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lake Town | lat=22.59904 | long=88.40285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content=The club holds some of the best Durga Puja pandals in Greater Kolkata every year, with a huge crowd gathering during the festive season. }} ==Learn== [[File:Isical01.jpg|thumb|Indian Statistical Institute]] * {{listing | name=Indian Statistical Institute | alt=ISI | url=http://www.isical.ac.in/ | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.6482 | long=88.3768 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3105568 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by the statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1932, the institute is often considered one of the foremost centres in the world for training and research in statistics. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Chandrani Pearls | alt= | url= | email= | address=153/1, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3779 | directions={{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 33 25789025 | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM - 9PM | price= | content=Ornaments of pearls. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.diamondplaza.in/ | email= | address=68, Jessore Rd, Satgachi | lat=22.61551 | long=88.41209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Diamond plaza.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Nagerbazar | alt=নাগেরবাজার ''Nāgerbājār'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.622984 | long=88.414267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15260775 | lastedit=2025-01-03 | content=A major shopping centre in Dum Dum, at the crossroads of Dum Dum Rd and Jessore Rd. }} * {{buy | name=Saltee Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jessore Rd | lat=22.62485 | long=88.41729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Saltee Plaza - Jessore Road - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2017-08-08 4000.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ==Eat and drink== Major food chains include '''Wow Momo''' (140, BT Rd). Major cafe chains include '''Cafe Coffee Day''' (BT Rd). You also can get lassi in several sweets shops, in '''Anandamayee Sweets''' many kinds of lassi like mango, dahi etc. are available. In the Alambazar area, you could get lassi in a sweet shop. In the Dunlop area, near Baranagar railway station and Sonali cinema hall, several fruit juice shops are available. You can also visit "Dunlop Coffee House" for coffee. * {{eat | name=Anandamayee Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=209, BT Rd | lat=22.6412 | long=88.3778 | directions= | phone=+91 2577 0120 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content=Traditional Bengal sweets, curd (in Bengali "doi"), ice cream, dhokla, lassi. }} * {{eat | name=The Cric World | alt= | url= | email= | address=44/51, BT Rd | lat=22.6339 | long=88.3785 | directions= | phone=+91 9830415213 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 11PM | price= | content=Multi-cuisine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Dhaka Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6515 | long=88.3777 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903968610 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–10:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Food Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.65564 | long=88.35887 | directions=close to the Kali Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-02-06 | content=Vegetarian meals such as chole bhature. }} * {{eat | name=Food Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903943648 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=269/2, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=near Baranagar Police Station | phone=+91 9831736332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Haldiram's Confectioners | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Baranagar Road railway station | phone=+91 33 25780815 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-2PM & 5-9PM| price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62978 | long=88.42090 | directions= | phone=+91 83350 55881 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mahua | alt=মহুয়া ''Mahuẏā'' | url= | email= | address=18/3, KC Ghosh Rd | lat=22.63041 | long=88.38403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Dahi: ₹260 per kg | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 40-year-old shop is known for creamy dahi (দই ''dai''), and it often runs out of dahi every day. }} * {{eat | name=New Sher-e-Punjab Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=131, BT Rd | lat=22.6524 | long=88.3774 | directions=near Indian Statistical Institute | phone=+91 7890101313 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Debalay Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, TN Mukherjee Rd, Dakshineswar | lat=22.65593 | long=88.35908 | directions= | phone=+91 70441 74570 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel Shivangan | alt= | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/fabhotel-shivangan.html | email= | address=VIP Rd, Baguiati | lat=22.6132 | long=88.4294 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2576 2711 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900-2,800 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Airport City | alt= | url=http://www.airportcityhotel.in/ | email= | address=259, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65416 | long=88.43538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 3131 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-3,700 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ethnotel | alt= | url=http://ethnotel.in | email= | address=71, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65075 | long=88.43674 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7101 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Fern Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=204, MAR, Rajarhat | lat=22.62192 | long=88.44613 | directions= | phone=+91 70444 77444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,000-4,000 | image=Fern Residency - Hotel - 204 Major Arterial Road - Rajarhat - Kolkata 2017-08-08 3934.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuka/hoteldetail | email= | address=28, Jessore Rd | lat=22.641842 | long=88.43225 | directions= | phone=+91 62899 01724, +91 33 6815 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4,660 | wikidata=Q111861625 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Airways | alt= | url= | email= | address=Motilal Colony, Rajbari | lat=22.6467 | long=88.4341 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 2106 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Gateway Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6419 | long=88.4307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2511 8324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel O2 Oxygen | alt= | url=http://www.loharukahotels.com | email= | address=641, VIP Rd, Kaikhali | lat=22.63119 | long=88.43394 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2525 0078, +91 33 2525 0113 +91 98364 75753 | tollfree= | checkin=1PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,460-5,600 | wikidata=Q111861626 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Orbit Hotel | alt= | url=https://hotelorbit.co.in/ | email= | address=RB 29, VIP Rd, Raghunathpur | lat=22.62089 | long=88.432 | directions= | phone=+91 85840 14256 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | image=Orbit Hotel - RB 29 - VIP Road - Raghunathpur - Kolkata 2017-05-10 7599.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sher-e-Punjab | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Jessore Rd | lat=22.6774 | long=88.4463 | directions= | phone= +91 33 2567 2848, +91 90888 60003 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | content=A hotel-cum-restaurant with quality Punjabi dhaba food. Chinese and Thai dishes are also available. AC or open-air seating. Drinks served. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuap/hoteldetail | email= | address= | lat=22.62319 | long=88.44338 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6699 6699 | tollfree= | checkin=8AM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,270 | wikidata=Q111402426 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/hojo/rajarhat-india/howard-johnson-kolkata/overview | email= | address=Chinar Park | lat=22.623827 | long=88.4425 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6655 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600 | wikidata=Q111402425 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== The Northern Suburbs are one of the most polluted areas of Kolkata. A lot of vehicles travel through Birati and Dunlop crossings; therefore the area is very polluted. Use a mask and a handkerchief for this area. ==Cope== ===Fire stations=== * {{listing | name=Baranagar Fire Station | address=282, Deshpran Shasmal Ave | lat=22.6522 | long=88.3725 | phone=+91 33 25102102 }} ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Airport Police Station | address= | lat=22.64657 | long=88.43668 | phone=+91 33 253193000 }} * {{listing | name=Baranagar Police Station | address=47, BT Rd | lat=22.6362 | long=88.3784 | phone=+91 33 25319300 |lastedit=2023-05-21 }} * {{listing | name=Chitpur Police Station | address=19, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.61853 | long=88.37316 | phone=+91 33 25566141 }} * {{listing | name=Dum Dum Police Station | phone=+91 33 25514167 }} ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Cossipore Head Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.61892 | long=88.37213 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content= }} {{isPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|22.62|88.42|zoom=13}} 4q4i63vioystjb61xblmfjfe893ed6x 5090852 5090846 2025-07-10T14:00:29Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ 5090852 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dakshineswar Mandir pagebanner.JPG|pgname=Northern Suburbs}} The '''Northern Suburbs''' (উত্তর শহরতলি ''Uttar Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the large urbanised industrial area to the north of the city. It is home to the city's sole international airport, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and several other temples and heritage sites. It is also an important food and leisure hub in West Bengal, having a lot of international fast-food chains and shopping malls. ==Understand== ===History=== In the 17th century, Dutch merchants set up a residence at Baranagar and made it a large business hub at that time, and the centre of the jute industry. SInce then, the Northern Suburbs became a major industrial centre for the manufacture of agricultural and industrial machinery, chemicals, castor oil, several jute products, matches, and numerous cotton-processing companies. Other than industry, the suburbs also had a military history. The [[British Raj]] had a major arsenal at Dum Dum which manufactured, among other things, expanding bullets which are still sometimes called "dum-dum bullets". They were later banned in warfare by the Hague Convention as being "too inhumane". Dum Dum, along with [[Barrackpore]], was a major centre of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is rumoured that the paper cartridges provided to Indian soldiers were laced with pig lard or cow fat, resulting to the revolt of the soldiers in Dum Dum Cantonment. However, the importance of Dum Dum in military declined by the late 1920s when Dum Dum Cantonment was closed down and became a municipality. After the partition of India in 1947, the suburban areas began teeming with millions of refugees from East Pakistan, and most of them were converted into planned townships. Due to the rise of trade unionism in the 1970s and 80s, the industry of West Bengal, including the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, faced decline. ===Orientation=== [[File:Night lifestyle@lake town,Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Nighttime view of Lake Town, one of the former refugee colonies.]] The Northern Suburbs consists of numerous suburbs, and are covered by seven urban local bodies: Baranagar, Bidhannagar (BMC), Dum Dum, Kamarhati, Kolkata (KMC), North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum. Locals rarely refer to these municipalities, but rather to one of dozens of suburbs contained in this district. Here are some of those well-known ones: * '''Baranagar''' (বরাহনগর ''Barāhanagar'' or বরানগর ''Barānagar'') * '''Belgharia''' (বেলঘরিয়া ''Belghariẏā'') * '''Dakshineswar''' (দক্ষিণেশ্বর ''Dakṣiṇeśbar'') — nicknamed as the "twin of [[Varanasi]]" and home to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the most important religious shrines for Hindus. People from all over the world visit the temple every day in numbers. Along with the Kali temple, there are other important points of interest, like the Adyapeath temple and Sarada Math. * '''Dum Dum''' (দমদম ''Damdam'') — a major transport hub of Kolkata, alongside [[Howrah]], [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] and [[Kolkata/North|Sealdah]], and home to the city's only international airport. Dum Dum Junction is served by local trains from different locations, and is connected with metro and bus routes. This area covers Dum Dum, North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum municipalities. Certain areas near Salt Lake were once refugee colonies that hosted immigrants from East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). These areas now spot a brighter look. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.63|88.4|width=580|height=500|zoom=13|name=Map of the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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The Northern Suburbs have a well transport chain for travelling, especially near Dakshineswar, Dum Dum, and the VIP Road area. ===By train=== The Northern Suburbs are best visited by local trains. They have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. Local trains to North Suburban stations and beyond depart from Sealdah North and Main terminals. Sealdah&ndash;Ranaghat line is the main line of this district. A branch line runs from {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Dum Dum|city=kolkata|chord link|eastern}}|wikidata=Q15215337}} to [[Bangaon]]. The '''Calcutta Chord Link Line''' {{rint|kolkata|chord}} runs from Dum Dum to [[Dankuni]], on Howrah&ndash;Bardhaman Chord line. ===By metro=== Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} runs along the CC Link Line, with stops at Dum Dum, Noapara, Baranagar, and Dakshineswar. Line {{rint|kolkata|4}} is under construction, and will connect Noapara to the airport. ===By car=== The Northern Suburbs have several highways that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal. The main roads to enter the area from inner Kolkata include Barrackpore Trunk Road (BT Road, SH 1), Jessore Road, and VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani). Belghoria Expressway connects the airport area to the rest of West Bengal. ===By ferry=== * {{go | name=Dakshineswar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65362 | long=88.35749 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=You can enjoy a 20-30 minutes boating ride from Dakshineswar to Belur Math. Sunset on the Hooghly river behind Vivekananda Setu from the bank is superb. In winter you will enjoy the most with the set of dusk and chill wind blowing over your body. }} * {{go | name=Kuthi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.63514 | long=88.36263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A palace on the banks of river Hooghly, established by Dutch merchants in the 17th century, as '''Dutch Kuthi''', one of the heritage sites of Kolkata. The place was named "Kuthi Ghat" after the palace. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Basri Shah Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13059169 | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The oldest mosque in Kolkata, dating back to 1804. }} * {{see | name=Belgachia Villa | alt=Paikpara Rajbari | url= | email= | address=64B, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Belgachia | lat=22.60647 | long=88.38615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28978887 | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=A large garden house. Prince Dwarkanath Tagore bought it from an Italian around 1823. In 1846, when he died in England it was discovered that he was heavily in debt due to his extravagant spending. To pay off his debts, his son Debendranath sold Belgachia Villa and other properties. }} * {{see | name=Clive's House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rastraguru Ave, Nagerbazar | lat=22.626404 | long=88.416153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56152584 | lastedit=2022-09-07 | content=A rather mysterious building, it is considered the first pucca brick and cement building in the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, possibly built by the Portuguese. What is known is that it was used by British soldiers when they first entered the country. Later, Robert Clive took the area over, renovated it, added a floor to the single-storey building, and made it his country house around 1757-60. The house is located on raised ground in otherwise flat surroundings. When Clive House was excavated, a variety of artefacts were recovered, including coins, terracotta figures, sculptures, pottery and intelligence on a Portuguese fort. The articles found could be of the Sena period or may alternatively have links with the ancient [[Chandraketugarh]] civilisation. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Time Zone Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Lake Town | lat=22.60012 | long=88.40668 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=KOLKATA TIME ZONE.JPG | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=A one-third sized replica of the iconic Big Ben in [[London]]. The tower is 30 metres in height, while Big Ben in London is 96 metres. It has ten floors and the four clock faces are each 3.6 metres in diameter, compared to 7 metres in the original. }} ===Ashrams=== [[File:Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar.jpg|thumb|Baranagar Math]] * {{see | name=Alambazar Math | alt= | url=http://alambazarmath.azurewebsites.net/ | email= | address= | lat=22.6473 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alambazar Math | wikidata=Q17001290 | content=Second monastery of Ramakrishna Order. Swami Vivekananda first put up here after coming back from abroad. }} * {{see | name=Baranagar Math | alt= | url=http://www.rkmbaranagar.org | email= | address= | lat=22.631861 | long=88.3675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Baranagar Math | wikidata=Q14947352 | content=First monastery of Ramakrishna Order. After the death of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and some of his other disciples permanently started to live here. Here, they decided to establish Belur Math for the first time. }} * {{see | name=Sri Sarada Math | alt= | url=http://www.srisaradamath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66113 | long=88.35742 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564 5411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=Daily ritual worships are performed here by the nuns. The birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and other personalities are celebrated here, besides the Hindu festivals. Religious discourse and lectures are also done regularly. }} * {{see | name=Udyan Bati | alt=উদ্যানবাটী, Garden House | url= | email= | address=90, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.626267 | long=88.370467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16345231 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A monastery where Sri Ramakrishna lived from 1885 till his death in 1886. ''Kalpataru Utsav'' is celebrated every year at 1 January. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg|thumb|Kripamayee Kali Temple]] * {{see | name=Adyapeath Temple | alt= | url=http://www.adyapeath.com/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66025 | long=88.36335 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564-6999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=A three-pinnacled temple dedicated to goddess Adya, and the centre of a major religious controversy. It is said that Annada Thakur received a divine command that goddess Adya was buried under the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh#Eden Gardens|Eden Gardens]] for thousands of years. He went there in 1928 and allegedly saw the statue of the goddess coming out from the ground. He consecrated the statue as the idol of this temple. But archaeologist Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay found that the statue was sculpted recently and not thousands of years ago, as Annada Thakur claimed. Later, many people got enraged to Thakur's deception, and the devotees of the goddess decided to immerse the statue to the Ganges to prevent further fury. The sanctum of the temple remained void till the consecration of the present idol. }} * {{see | name=Kacher Mandir | alt=Glass Temple | url= | email= | address=1, Pran Krishna Saha Ln | lat=22.639 | long=88.3623 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kripamayee Kali Temple | alt=Joy Mitra Kalibari | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.637 | long=88.363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kripamayee Kali Temple | image=Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg | wikidata=Q6437106 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple of Goddess Kali worshipped as Kripamayee (she who is merciful). There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Mahamilan Math | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/7, PWD Road | lat=22.6518 | long=88.3717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Annapurna Temple and the Omkarnath Temple are two attractions here. }} * {{see | name=Parshwanath Jain Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=26, Khudiram Bose Sarani | lat=22.6057 | long=88.3828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67633842 | lastedit=2022-10-14 | content=Considered one of the most sacred Jain temples of worship in Kolkata. The temple also has a dharamshala equipped with modern facilities. }} * {{see | name=Pathbari Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6415 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A place where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu set his foot on his way to [[Puri]] in the early 16th century. }} ====Dakshineswar Temple Complex==== [[File:Dakshineshwar Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Dakshineswar Kali Temple]] [[File:Dakshineswar temple - panoramio.jpg|thumb|12 Shiva temples]] * {{see | name=Dakshineswar Kali Temple | alt= | url=http://www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.655 | long=88.357778 | directions=matro: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|blue}}, suburban: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|chord}}. Both stations are connected to the temple with about {{m|330}} long skywalk, which provides a good view of the surroundings. | phone=+91 33 2564-5222 | tollfree= | hours=6:00AM-12:30PM and 3:00PM-8:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q1157765 | lastedit=2022-07-15 | content=A huge temple complex with the famous Hindu ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here as Ma Bhavatarini. The temple complex was inaugurated by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the head and only priest of this temple from 1856 to 1886. He spent most of his life in the ''nahabat khānā'' (corruption of ''naubat xānā'', meaning "drum house") chamber of the temple complex. After Ramakrishna's death, the temple complex had been taken over by the then-Government of Bengal, later the Government of West Bengal. It attracts thousands of worshipers around the year, especially on the day of Shyama Puja, Shiva Chaturdashi, Poyla Boishakh, Akshaya Tritiya, New Year's Day and Kalpataru Utsava. Beside the main temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Hooghly River and a bathing ghat. Because of the temple's importance and the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, flowing by, it is also regarded as a twin of [[Varanasi]] by the locals. }} * {{see | name=Panchavati | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65638 | long=88.35716 | directions=north of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=A complex of trees consisting of banyan (''vaṭa''), peepal (''ashvattha''), neem (''nimba''), amla (''āmlakī'') and wood apple (''bilva'') trees. This is where Ramakrishna performed his advaitic sādhanā in 1865. }} * {{see | name=Rani Rashmoni Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65554 | long=88.35738 | directions=next to the gate of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=The shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple. }} ===Bridges=== * {{marker|type=see|name=Nivedita Setu|wikidata=Q7041769}} and {{marker|type=see|name=Vivekananda Setu|wikidata=Q844900}} — Two bridges across the Hooghly River, {{m|50}} apart. Vivekenanda Setu is a {{m|880}} long rail-cum-road bridge, built in 1932 as Willingdon Bridge and later renamed after Swami Vivekananda. Nivedita Setu is a newer cable-stayed bridge, named after the female disciple of Swami Vivekananda. ==Do== [[File:BRkM-6.jpg|thumb|Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission]] * {{do | name=Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission | alt=BRKM | url=http://rkmbaranagore.org | email=brkmreunion@gmail.com | address=37, Gopal Lal Tagore Rd, Baranagar | lat=22.6345 | long=88.370436 | directions= | phone=+91-33-2556-3817 | tollfree= | fax=+91-33-2556-3817 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19882251 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by Yogindranath Tagore (the disciple of Swami Brahmananda) in 1912. This institution celebrates many cultural programmes throughout the year. Many people come to watch those cultural events every year. }} * {{do | name=Narayani Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=15, Surya Sen Rd | lat=22.6491 | long=88.3635 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sinthee More Ground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=Hosts various local events throughout the year, including "Ajanta Circus" every winter. }} * {{do | name=Sonali Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sreebhumi Sporting Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lake Town | lat=22.59904 | long=88.40285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content=The club holds some of the best Durga Puja pandals in Greater Kolkata every year, with a huge crowd gathering during the festive season. }} ==Learn== [[File:Isical01.jpg|thumb|Indian Statistical Institute]] * {{listing | name=Indian Statistical Institute | alt=ISI | url=http://www.isical.ac.in/ | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.6482 | long=88.3768 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3105568 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by the statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1932, the institute is often considered one of the foremost centres in the world for training and research in statistics. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Chandrani Pearls | alt= | url= | email= | address=153/1, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3779 | directions={{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 33 25789025 | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM - 9PM | price= | content=Ornaments of pearls. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.diamondplaza.in/ | email= | address=68, Jessore Rd, Satgachi | lat=22.61551 | long=88.41209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Diamond plaza.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Nagerbazar | alt=নাগেরবাজার ''Nāgerbājār'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.622984 | long=88.414267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15260775 | lastedit=2025-01-03 | content=A major shopping centre in Dum Dum, at the crossroads of Dum Dum Rd and Jessore Rd. }} * {{buy | name=Saltee Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jessore Rd | lat=22.62485 | long=88.41729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Saltee Plaza - Jessore Road - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2017-08-08 4000.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ==Eat and drink== Major food chains include '''Wow Momo''' (140, BT Rd). Major cafe chains include '''Cafe Coffee Day''' (BT Rd). You also can get lassi in several sweets shops, in '''Anandamayee Sweets''' many kinds of lassi like mango, dahi etc. are available. In the Alambazar area, you could get lassi in a sweet shop. In the Dunlop area, near Baranagar railway station and Sonali cinema hall, several fruit juice shops are available. You can also visit "Dunlop Coffee House" for coffee. * {{eat | name=Anandamayee Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=209, BT Rd | lat=22.6412 | long=88.3778 | directions= | phone=+91 2577 0120 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content=Traditional Bengal sweets, curd (in Bengali "doi"), ice cream, dhokla, lassi. }} * {{eat | name=The Cric World | alt= | url= | email= | address=44/51, BT Rd | lat=22.6339 | long=88.3785 | directions= | phone=+91 9830415213 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 11PM | price= | content=Multi-cuisine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Dhaka Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6515 | long=88.3777 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903968610 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–10:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Food Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.65564 | long=88.35887 | directions=close to the Kali Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-02-06 | content=Vegetarian meals such as chole bhature. }} * {{eat | name=Food Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903943648 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=269/2, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=near Baranagar Police Station | phone=+91 9831736332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Haldiram's Confectioners | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Baranagar Road railway station | phone=+91 33 25780815 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-2PM & 5-9PM| price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62978 | long=88.42090 | directions= | phone=+91 83350 55881 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mahua | alt=মহুয়া ''Mahuẏā'' | url= | email= | address=18/3, KC Ghosh Rd | lat=22.63041 | long=88.38403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Dahi: ₹260 per kg | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 40-year-old shop is known for creamy dahi (দই ''dai''), and it often runs out of dahi every day. }} * {{eat | name=New Sher-e-Punjab Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=131, BT Rd | lat=22.6524 | long=88.3774 | directions=near Indian Statistical Institute | phone=+91 7890101313 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Debalay Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, TN Mukherjee Rd, Dakshineswar | lat=22.65593 | long=88.35908 | directions= | phone=+91 70441 74570 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel Shivangan | alt= | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/fabhotel-shivangan.html | email= | address=VIP Rd, Baguiati | lat=22.6132 | long=88.4294 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2576 2711 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900-2,800 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Airport City | alt= | url=http://www.airportcityhotel.in/ | email= | address=259, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65416 | long=88.43538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 3131 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-3,700 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ethnotel | alt= | url=http://ethnotel.in | email= | address=71, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65075 | long=88.43674 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7101 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Fern Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=204, MAR, Rajarhat | lat=22.62192 | long=88.44613 | directions= | phone=+91 70444 77444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,000-4,000 | image=Fern Residency - Hotel - 204 Major Arterial Road - Rajarhat - Kolkata 2017-08-08 3934.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuka/hoteldetail | email= | address=28, Jessore Rd | lat=22.641842 | long=88.43225 | directions= | phone=+91 62899 01724, +91 33 6815 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4,660 | wikidata=Q111861625 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Airways | alt= | url= | email= | address=Motilal Colony, Rajbari | lat=22.6467 | long=88.4341 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 2106 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Gateway Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6419 | long=88.4307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2511 8324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel O2 Oxygen | alt= | url=http://www.loharukahotels.com | email= | address=641, VIP Rd, Kaikhali | lat=22.63119 | long=88.43394 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2525 0078, +91 33 2525 0113 +91 98364 75753 | tollfree= | checkin=1PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,460-5,600 | wikidata=Q111861626 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Orbit Hotel | alt= | url=https://hotelorbit.co.in/ | email= | address=RB 29, VIP Rd, Raghunathpur | lat=22.62089 | long=88.432 | directions= | phone=+91 85840 14256 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | image=Orbit Hotel - RB 29 - VIP Road - Raghunathpur - Kolkata 2017-05-10 7599.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pipal Tree Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sher-e-Punjab | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Jessore Rd | lat=22.6774 | long=88.4463 | directions= | phone= +91 33 2567 2848, +91 90888 60003 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | content=A hotel-cum-restaurant with quality Punjabi dhaba food. Chinese and Thai dishes are also available. AC or open-air seating. Drinks served. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuap/hoteldetail | email= | address= | lat=22.62319 | long=88.44338 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6699 6699 | tollfree= | checkin=8AM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,270 | wikidata=Q111402426 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/hojo/rajarhat-india/howard-johnson-kolkata/overview | email= | address=Chinar Park | lat=22.623827 | long=88.4425 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6655 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600 | wikidata=Q111402425 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== The Northern Suburbs are one of the most polluted areas of Kolkata. A lot of vehicles travel through Birati and Dunlop crossings; therefore the area is very polluted. Use a mask and a handkerchief for this area. ==Cope== ===Fire stations=== * {{listing | name=Baranagar Fire Station | address=282, Deshpran Shasmal Ave | lat=22.6522 | long=88.3725 | phone=+91 33 25102102 }} ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Airport Police Station | address= | lat=22.64657 | long=88.43668 | phone=+91 33 253193000 }} * {{listing | name=Baranagar Police Station | address=47, BT Rd | lat=22.6362 | long=88.3784 | phone=+91 33 25319300 |lastedit=2023-05-21 }} * {{listing | name=Chitpur Police Station | address=19, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.61853 | long=88.37316 | phone=+91 33 25566141 }} * {{listing | name=Dum Dum Police Station | phone=+91 33 25514167 }} ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Cossipore Head Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.61892 | long=88.37213 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content= }} {{isPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|22.62|88.42|zoom=13}} b3t7sam6y67y23xns0oadn5pdu3vprg 5090855 5090852 2025-07-10T14:01:43Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Mid-range */ Updated listing for Pipal Tree Hotel 5090855 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dakshineswar Mandir pagebanner.JPG|pgname=Northern Suburbs}} The '''Northern Suburbs''' (উত্তর শহরতলি ''Uttar Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the large urbanised industrial area to the north of the city. It is home to the city's sole international airport, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and several other temples and heritage sites. It is also an important food and leisure hub in West Bengal, having a lot of international fast-food chains and shopping malls. ==Understand== ===History=== In the 17th century, Dutch merchants set up a residence at Baranagar and made it a large business hub at that time, and the centre of the jute industry. SInce then, the Northern Suburbs became a major industrial centre for the manufacture of agricultural and industrial machinery, chemicals, castor oil, several jute products, matches, and numerous cotton-processing companies. Other than industry, the suburbs also had a military history. The [[British Raj]] had a major arsenal at Dum Dum which manufactured, among other things, expanding bullets which are still sometimes called "dum-dum bullets". They were later banned in warfare by the Hague Convention as being "too inhumane". Dum Dum, along with [[Barrackpore]], was a major centre of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is rumoured that the paper cartridges provided to Indian soldiers were laced with pig lard or cow fat, resulting to the revolt of the soldiers in Dum Dum Cantonment. However, the importance of Dum Dum in military declined by the late 1920s when Dum Dum Cantonment was closed down and became a municipality. After the partition of India in 1947, the suburban areas began teeming with millions of refugees from East Pakistan, and most of them were converted into planned townships. Due to the rise of trade unionism in the 1970s and 80s, the industry of West Bengal, including the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, faced decline. ===Orientation=== [[File:Night lifestyle@lake town,Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Nighttime view of Lake Town, one of the former refugee colonies.]] The Northern Suburbs consists of numerous suburbs, and are covered by seven urban local bodies: Baranagar, Bidhannagar (BMC), Dum Dum, Kamarhati, Kolkata (KMC), North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum. Locals rarely refer to these municipalities, but rather to one of dozens of suburbs contained in this district. Here are some of those well-known ones: * '''Baranagar''' (বরাহনগর ''Barāhanagar'' or বরানগর ''Barānagar'') * '''Belgharia''' (বেলঘরিয়া ''Belghariẏā'') * '''Dakshineswar''' (দক্ষিণেশ্বর ''Dakṣiṇeśbar'') — nicknamed as the "twin of [[Varanasi]]" and home to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the most important religious shrines for Hindus. People from all over the world visit the temple every day in numbers. Along with the Kali temple, there are other important points of interest, like the Adyapeath temple and Sarada Math. * '''Dum Dum''' (দমদম ''Damdam'') — a major transport hub of Kolkata, alongside [[Howrah]], [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] and [[Kolkata/North|Sealdah]], and home to the city's only international airport. Dum Dum Junction is served by local trains from different locations, and is connected with metro and bus routes. This area covers Dum Dum, North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum municipalities. Certain areas near Salt Lake were once refugee colonies that hosted immigrants from East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). These areas now spot a brighter look. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.63|88.4|width=580|height=500|zoom=13|name=Map of the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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The Northern Suburbs have a well transport chain for travelling, especially near Dakshineswar, Dum Dum, and the VIP Road area. ===By train=== The Northern Suburbs are best visited by local trains. They have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. Local trains to North Suburban stations and beyond depart from Sealdah North and Main terminals. Sealdah&ndash;Ranaghat line is the main line of this district. A branch line runs from {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Dum Dum|city=kolkata|chord link|eastern}}|wikidata=Q15215337}} to [[Bangaon]]. The '''Calcutta Chord Link Line''' {{rint|kolkata|chord}} runs from Dum Dum to [[Dankuni]], on Howrah&ndash;Bardhaman Chord line. ===By metro=== Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} runs along the CC Link Line, with stops at Dum Dum, Noapara, Baranagar, and Dakshineswar. Line {{rint|kolkata|4}} is under construction, and will connect Noapara to the airport. ===By car=== The Northern Suburbs have several highways that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal. The main roads to enter the area from inner Kolkata include Barrackpore Trunk Road (BT Road, SH 1), Jessore Road, and VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani). Belghoria Expressway connects the airport area to the rest of West Bengal. ===By ferry=== * {{go | name=Dakshineswar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65362 | long=88.35749 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=You can enjoy a 20-30 minutes boating ride from Dakshineswar to Belur Math. Sunset on the Hooghly river behind Vivekananda Setu from the bank is superb. In winter you will enjoy the most with the set of dusk and chill wind blowing over your body. }} * {{go | name=Kuthi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.63514 | long=88.36263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A palace on the banks of river Hooghly, established by Dutch merchants in the 17th century, as '''Dutch Kuthi''', one of the heritage sites of Kolkata. The place was named "Kuthi Ghat" after the palace. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Basri Shah Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13059169 | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The oldest mosque in Kolkata, dating back to 1804. }} * {{see | name=Belgachia Villa | alt=Paikpara Rajbari | url= | email= | address=64B, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Belgachia | lat=22.60647 | long=88.38615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28978887 | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=A large garden house. Prince Dwarkanath Tagore bought it from an Italian around 1823. In 1846, when he died in England it was discovered that he was heavily in debt due to his extravagant spending. To pay off his debts, his son Debendranath sold Belgachia Villa and other properties. }} * {{see | name=Clive's House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rastraguru Ave, Nagerbazar | lat=22.626404 | long=88.416153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56152584 | lastedit=2022-09-07 | content=A rather mysterious building, it is considered the first pucca brick and cement building in the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, possibly built by the Portuguese. What is known is that it was used by British soldiers when they first entered the country. Later, Robert Clive took the area over, renovated it, added a floor to the single-storey building, and made it his country house around 1757-60. The house is located on raised ground in otherwise flat surroundings. When Clive House was excavated, a variety of artefacts were recovered, including coins, terracotta figures, sculptures, pottery and intelligence on a Portuguese fort. The articles found could be of the Sena period or may alternatively have links with the ancient [[Chandraketugarh]] civilisation. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Time Zone Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Lake Town | lat=22.60012 | long=88.40668 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=KOLKATA TIME ZONE.JPG | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=A one-third sized replica of the iconic Big Ben in [[London]]. The tower is 30 metres in height, while Big Ben in London is 96 metres. It has ten floors and the four clock faces are each 3.6 metres in diameter, compared to 7 metres in the original. }} ===Ashrams=== [[File:Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar.jpg|thumb|Baranagar Math]] * {{see | name=Alambazar Math | alt= | url=http://alambazarmath.azurewebsites.net/ | email= | address= | lat=22.6473 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alambazar Math | wikidata=Q17001290 | content=Second monastery of Ramakrishna Order. Swami Vivekananda first put up here after coming back from abroad. }} * {{see | name=Baranagar Math | alt= | url=http://www.rkmbaranagar.org | email= | address= | lat=22.631861 | long=88.3675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Baranagar Math | wikidata=Q14947352 | content=First monastery of Ramakrishna Order. After the death of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and some of his other disciples permanently started to live here. Here, they decided to establish Belur Math for the first time. }} * {{see | name=Sri Sarada Math | alt= | url=http://www.srisaradamath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66113 | long=88.35742 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564 5411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=Daily ritual worships are performed here by the nuns. The birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and other personalities are celebrated here, besides the Hindu festivals. Religious discourse and lectures are also done regularly. }} * {{see | name=Udyan Bati | alt=উদ্যানবাটী, Garden House | url= | email= | address=90, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.626267 | long=88.370467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16345231 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A monastery where Sri Ramakrishna lived from 1885 till his death in 1886. ''Kalpataru Utsav'' is celebrated every year at 1 January. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg|thumb|Kripamayee Kali Temple]] * {{see | name=Adyapeath Temple | alt= | url=http://www.adyapeath.com/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66025 | long=88.36335 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564-6999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=A three-pinnacled temple dedicated to goddess Adya, and the centre of a major religious controversy. It is said that Annada Thakur received a divine command that goddess Adya was buried under the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh#Eden Gardens|Eden Gardens]] for thousands of years. He went there in 1928 and allegedly saw the statue of the goddess coming out from the ground. He consecrated the statue as the idol of this temple. But archaeologist Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay found that the statue was sculpted recently and not thousands of years ago, as Annada Thakur claimed. Later, many people got enraged to Thakur's deception, and the devotees of the goddess decided to immerse the statue to the Ganges to prevent further fury. The sanctum of the temple remained void till the consecration of the present idol. }} * {{see | name=Kacher Mandir | alt=Glass Temple | url= | email= | address=1, Pran Krishna Saha Ln | lat=22.639 | long=88.3623 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kripamayee Kali Temple | alt=Joy Mitra Kalibari | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.637 | long=88.363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kripamayee Kali Temple | image=Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg | wikidata=Q6437106 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple of Goddess Kali worshipped as Kripamayee (she who is merciful). There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Mahamilan Math | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/7, PWD Road | lat=22.6518 | long=88.3717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Annapurna Temple and the Omkarnath Temple are two attractions here. }} * {{see | name=Parshwanath Jain Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=26, Khudiram Bose Sarani | lat=22.6057 | long=88.3828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67633842 | lastedit=2022-10-14 | content=Considered one of the most sacred Jain temples of worship in Kolkata. The temple also has a dharamshala equipped with modern facilities. }} * {{see | name=Pathbari Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6415 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A place where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu set his foot on his way to [[Puri]] in the early 16th century. }} ====Dakshineswar Temple Complex==== [[File:Dakshineshwar Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Dakshineswar Kali Temple]] [[File:Dakshineswar temple - panoramio.jpg|thumb|12 Shiva temples]] * {{see | name=Dakshineswar Kali Temple | alt= | url=http://www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.655 | long=88.357778 | directions=matro: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|blue}}, suburban: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|chord}}. Both stations are connected to the temple with about {{m|330}} long skywalk, which provides a good view of the surroundings. | phone=+91 33 2564-5222 | tollfree= | hours=6:00AM-12:30PM and 3:00PM-8:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q1157765 | lastedit=2022-07-15 | content=A huge temple complex with the famous Hindu ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here as Ma Bhavatarini. The temple complex was inaugurated by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the head and only priest of this temple from 1856 to 1886. He spent most of his life in the ''nahabat khānā'' (corruption of ''naubat xānā'', meaning "drum house") chamber of the temple complex. After Ramakrishna's death, the temple complex had been taken over by the then-Government of Bengal, later the Government of West Bengal. It attracts thousands of worshipers around the year, especially on the day of Shyama Puja, Shiva Chaturdashi, Poyla Boishakh, Akshaya Tritiya, New Year's Day and Kalpataru Utsava. Beside the main temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Hooghly River and a bathing ghat. Because of the temple's importance and the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, flowing by, it is also regarded as a twin of [[Varanasi]] by the locals. }} * {{see | name=Panchavati | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65638 | long=88.35716 | directions=north of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=A complex of trees consisting of banyan (''vaṭa''), peepal (''ashvattha''), neem (''nimba''), amla (''āmlakī'') and wood apple (''bilva'') trees. This is where Ramakrishna performed his advaitic sādhanā in 1865. }} * {{see | name=Rani Rashmoni Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65554 | long=88.35738 | directions=next to the gate of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=The shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple. }} ===Bridges=== * {{marker|type=see|name=Nivedita Setu|wikidata=Q7041769}} and {{marker|type=see|name=Vivekananda Setu|wikidata=Q844900}} — Two bridges across the Hooghly River, {{m|50}} apart. Vivekenanda Setu is a {{m|880}} long rail-cum-road bridge, built in 1932 as Willingdon Bridge and later renamed after Swami Vivekananda. Nivedita Setu is a newer cable-stayed bridge, named after the female disciple of Swami Vivekananda. ==Do== [[File:BRkM-6.jpg|thumb|Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission]] * {{do | name=Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission | alt=BRKM | url=http://rkmbaranagore.org | email=brkmreunion@gmail.com | address=37, Gopal Lal Tagore Rd, Baranagar | lat=22.6345 | long=88.370436 | directions= | phone=+91-33-2556-3817 | tollfree= | fax=+91-33-2556-3817 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19882251 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by Yogindranath Tagore (the disciple of Swami Brahmananda) in 1912. This institution celebrates many cultural programmes throughout the year. Many people come to watch those cultural events every year. }} * {{do | name=Narayani Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=15, Surya Sen Rd | lat=22.6491 | long=88.3635 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sinthee More Ground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=Hosts various local events throughout the year, including "Ajanta Circus" every winter. }} * {{do | name=Sonali Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sreebhumi Sporting Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lake Town | lat=22.59904 | long=88.40285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content=The club holds some of the best Durga Puja pandals in Greater Kolkata every year, with a huge crowd gathering during the festive season. }} ==Learn== [[File:Isical01.jpg|thumb|Indian Statistical Institute]] * {{listing | name=Indian Statistical Institute | alt=ISI | url=http://www.isical.ac.in/ | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.6482 | long=88.3768 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3105568 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by the statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1932, the institute is often considered one of the foremost centres in the world for training and research in statistics. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Chandrani Pearls | alt= | url= | email= | address=153/1, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3779 | directions={{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 33 25789025 | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM - 9PM | price= | content=Ornaments of pearls. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.diamondplaza.in/ | email= | address=68, Jessore Rd, Satgachi | lat=22.61551 | long=88.41209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Diamond plaza.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Nagerbazar | alt=নাগেরবাজার ''Nāgerbājār'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.622984 | long=88.414267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15260775 | lastedit=2025-01-03 | content=A major shopping centre in Dum Dum, at the crossroads of Dum Dum Rd and Jessore Rd. }} * {{buy | name=Saltee Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jessore Rd | lat=22.62485 | long=88.41729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Saltee Plaza - Jessore Road - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2017-08-08 4000.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ==Eat and drink== Major food chains include '''Wow Momo''' (140, BT Rd). Major cafe chains include '''Cafe Coffee Day''' (BT Rd). You also can get lassi in several sweets shops, in '''Anandamayee Sweets''' many kinds of lassi like mango, dahi etc. are available. In the Alambazar area, you could get lassi in a sweet shop. In the Dunlop area, near Baranagar railway station and Sonali cinema hall, several fruit juice shops are available. You can also visit "Dunlop Coffee House" for coffee. * {{eat | name=Anandamayee Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=209, BT Rd | lat=22.6412 | long=88.3778 | directions= | phone=+91 2577 0120 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content=Traditional Bengal sweets, curd (in Bengali "doi"), ice cream, dhokla, lassi. }} * {{eat | name=The Cric World | alt= | url= | email= | address=44/51, BT Rd | lat=22.6339 | long=88.3785 | directions= | phone=+91 9830415213 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 11PM | price= | content=Multi-cuisine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Dhaka Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6515 | long=88.3777 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903968610 | tollfree= | hours=11AM–10:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Food Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.65564 | long=88.35887 | directions=close to the Kali Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-02-06 | content=Vegetarian meals such as chole bhature. }} * {{eat | name=Food Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 9903943648 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=269/2, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=near Baranagar Police Station | phone=+91 9831736332 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Haldiram's Confectioners | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Baranagar Road railway station | phone=+91 33 25780815 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-2PM & 5-9PM| price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62978 | long=88.42090 | directions= | phone=+91 83350 55881 | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mahua | alt=মহুয়া ''Mahuẏā'' | url= | email= | address=18/3, KC Ghosh Rd | lat=22.63041 | long=88.38403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Dahi: ₹260 per kg | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 40-year-old shop is known for creamy dahi (দই ''dai''), and it often runs out of dahi every day. }} * {{eat | name=New Sher-e-Punjab Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=131, BT Rd | lat=22.6524 | long=88.3774 | directions=near Indian Statistical Institute | phone=+91 7890101313 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Debalay Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, TN Mukherjee Rd, Dakshineswar | lat=22.65593 | long=88.35908 | directions= | phone=+91 70441 74570 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel Shivangan | alt= | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/fabhotel-shivangan.html | email= | address=VIP Rd, Baguiati | lat=22.6132 | long=88.4294 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2576 2711 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900-2,800 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Airport City | alt= | url=http://www.airportcityhotel.in/ | email= | address=259, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65416 | long=88.43538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 3131 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-3,700 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ethnotel | alt= | url=http://ethnotel.in | email= | address=71, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65075 | long=88.43674 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7101 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Fern Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=204, MAR, Rajarhat | lat=22.62192 | long=88.44613 | directions= | phone=+91 70444 77444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,000-4,000 | image=Fern Residency - Hotel - 204 Major Arterial Road - Rajarhat - Kolkata 2017-08-08 3934.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuka/hoteldetail | email= | address=28, Jessore Rd | lat=22.641842 | long=88.43225 | directions= | phone=+91 62899 01724, +91 33 6815 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4,660 | wikidata=Q111861625 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Airways | alt= | url= | email= | address=Motilal Colony, Rajbari | lat=22.6467 | long=88.4341 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 2106 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Gateway Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6419 | long=88.4307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2511 8324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel O2 Oxygen | alt= | url=http://www.loharukahotels.com | email= | address=641, VIP Rd, Kaikhali | lat=22.63119 | long=88.43394 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2525 0078, +91 33 2525 0113 +91 98364 75753 | tollfree= | checkin=1PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,460-5,600 | wikidata=Q111861626 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Orbit Hotel | alt= | url=https://hotelorbit.co.in/ | email= | address=RB 29, VIP Rd, Raghunathpur | lat=22.62089 | long=88.432 | directions= | phone=+91 85840 14256 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | image=Orbit Hotel - RB 29 - VIP Road - Raghunathpur - Kolkata 2017-05-10 7599.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pipal Tree Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.pipaltreehotel.com | email= | address=AS/464, Major Arterial Road (South-East), Hatiara | lat=22.622204 | long=88.445931 | directions= | phone=+91 33 3060 6060 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111861627 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sher-e-Punjab | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Jessore Rd | lat=22.6774 | long=88.4463 | directions= | phone= +91 33 2567 2848, +91 90888 60003 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | content=A hotel-cum-restaurant with quality Punjabi dhaba food. Chinese and Thai dishes are also available. AC or open-air seating. Drinks served. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuap/hoteldetail | email= | address= | lat=22.62319 | long=88.44338 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6699 6699 | tollfree= | checkin=8AM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,270 | wikidata=Q111402426 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/hojo/rajarhat-india/howard-johnson-kolkata/overview | email= | address=Chinar Park | lat=22.623827 | long=88.4425 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6655 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600 | wikidata=Q111402425 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== The Northern Suburbs are one of the most polluted areas of Kolkata. A lot of vehicles travel through Birati and Dunlop crossings; therefore the area is very polluted. Use a mask and a handkerchief for this area. ==Cope== ===Fire stations=== * {{listing | name=Baranagar Fire Station | address=282, Deshpran Shasmal Ave | lat=22.6522 | long=88.3725 | phone=+91 33 25102102 }} ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Airport Police Station | address= | lat=22.64657 | long=88.43668 | phone=+91 33 253193000 }} * {{listing | name=Baranagar Police Station | address=47, BT Rd | lat=22.6362 | long=88.3784 | phone=+91 33 25319300 |lastedit=2023-05-21 }} * {{listing | name=Chitpur Police Station | address=19, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.61853 | long=88.37316 | phone=+91 33 25566141 }} * {{listing | name=Dum Dum Police Station | phone=+91 33 25514167 }} ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Cossipore Head Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.61892 | long=88.37213 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content= }} {{isPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|22.62|88.42|zoom=13}} c8h8a337964zwu7k3fz00c7gb4umgrf 5090867 5090855 2025-07-10T14:33:03Z 92.21.137.132 Fix errors [[Category:Listing with phone format issue]]. Add missing area code. Add comma in list. Also, remove hyphens from country code and area code, add spacing and tag mobile numbers. 5090867 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Dakshineswar Mandir pagebanner.JPG|pgname=Northern Suburbs}} The '''Northern Suburbs''' (উত্তর শহরতলি ''Uttar Śahartali'') of [[Kolkata]] consist of the large urbanised industrial area to the north of the city. It is home to the city's sole international airport, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and several other temples and heritage sites. It is also an important food and leisure hub in West Bengal, having a lot of international fast-food chains and shopping malls. ==Understand== ===History=== In the 17th century, Dutch merchants set up a residence at Baranagar and made it a large business hub at that time, and the centre of the jute industry. SInce then, the Northern Suburbs became a major industrial centre for the manufacture of agricultural and industrial machinery, chemicals, castor oil, several jute products, matches, and numerous cotton-processing companies. Other than industry, the suburbs also had a military history. The [[British Raj]] had a major arsenal at Dum Dum which manufactured, among other things, expanding bullets which are still sometimes called "dum-dum bullets". They were later banned in warfare by the Hague Convention as being "too inhumane". Dum Dum, along with [[Barrackpore]], was a major centre of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is rumoured that the paper cartridges provided to Indian soldiers were laced with pig lard or cow fat, resulting to the revolt of the soldiers in Dum Dum Cantonment. However, the importance of Dum Dum in military declined by the late 1920s when Dum Dum Cantonment was closed down and became a municipality. After the partition of India in 1947, the suburban areas began teeming with millions of refugees from East Pakistan, and most of them were converted into planned townships. Due to the rise of trade unionism in the 1970s and 80s, the industry of West Bengal, including the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, faced decline. ===Orientation=== [[File:Night lifestyle@lake town,Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Nighttime view of Lake Town, one of the former refugee colonies.]] The Northern Suburbs consists of numerous suburbs, and are covered by seven urban local bodies: Baranagar, Bidhannagar (BMC), Dum Dum, Kamarhati, Kolkata (KMC), North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum. Locals rarely refer to these municipalities, but rather to one of dozens of suburbs contained in this district. Here are some of those well-known ones: * '''Baranagar''' (বরাহনগর ''Barāhanagar'' or বরানগর ''Barānagar'') * '''Belgharia''' (বেলঘরিয়া ''Belghariẏā'') * '''Dakshineswar''' (দক্ষিণেশ্বর ''Dakṣiṇeśbar'') — nicknamed as the "twin of [[Varanasi]]" and home to Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the most important religious shrines for Hindus. People from all over the world visit the temple every day in numbers. Along with the Kali temple, there are other important points of interest, like the Adyapeath temple and Sarada Math. * '''Dum Dum''' (দমদম ''Damdam'') — a major transport hub of Kolkata, alongside [[Howrah]], [[Kolkata/Esplanade|Esplanade]] and [[Kolkata/North|Sealdah]], and home to the city's only international airport. Dum Dum Junction is served by local trains from different locations, and is connected with metro and bus routes. This area covers Dum Dum, North Dum Dum and South Dum Dum municipalities. Certain areas near Salt Lake were once refugee colonies that hosted immigrants from East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). These areas now spot a brighter look. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|22.63|88.4|width=580|height=500|zoom=13|name=Map of the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} 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The Northern Suburbs have a well transport chain for travelling, especially near Dakshineswar, Dum Dum, and the VIP Road area. ===By train=== The Northern Suburbs are best visited by local trains. They have one of the most extensive suburban railway coverage compared to the inner parts of the city, where only {{rint|kolkata|circular}} dominates. Local trains to North Suburban stations and beyond depart from Sealdah North and Main terminals. Sealdah&ndash;Ranaghat line is the main line of this district. A branch line runs from {{marker|type=go|name={{station|Dum Dum|city=kolkata|chord link|eastern}}|wikidata=Q15215337}} to [[Bangaon]]. The '''Calcutta Chord Link Line''' {{rint|kolkata|chord}} runs from Dum Dum to [[Dankuni]], on Howrah&ndash;Bardhaman Chord line. ===By metro=== Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} runs along the CC Link Line, with stops at Dum Dum, Noapara, Baranagar, and Dakshineswar. Line {{rint|kolkata|4}} is under construction, and will connect Noapara to the airport. ===By car=== The Northern Suburbs have several highways that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal. The main roads to enter the area from inner Kolkata include Barrackpore Trunk Road (BT Road, SH 1), Jessore Road, and VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani). Belghoria Expressway connects the airport area to the rest of West Bengal. ===By ferry=== * {{go | name=Dakshineswar Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65362 | long=88.35749 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=You can enjoy a 20-30 minutes boating ride from Dakshineswar to Belur Math. Sunset on the Hooghly river behind Vivekananda Setu from the bank is superb. In winter you will enjoy the most with the set of dusk and chill wind blowing over your body. }} * {{go | name=Kuthi Ghat | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.63514 | long=88.36263 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A palace on the banks of river Hooghly, established by Dutch merchants in the 17th century, as '''Dutch Kuthi''', one of the heritage sites of Kolkata. The place was named "Kuthi Ghat" after the palace. }} ==See== * {{see | name=Basri Shah Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q13059169 | lastedit=2023-04-16 | content=The oldest mosque in Kolkata, dating back to 1804. }} * {{see | name=Belgachia Villa | alt=Paikpara Rajbari | url= | email= | address=64B, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Belgachia | lat=22.60647 | long=88.38615 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28978887 | lastedit=2022-12-14 | content=A large garden house. Prince Dwarkanath Tagore bought it from an Italian around 1823. In 1846, when he died in England it was discovered that he was heavily in debt due to his extravagant spending. To pay off his debts, his son Debendranath sold Belgachia Villa and other properties. }} * {{see | name=Clive's House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rastraguru Ave, Nagerbazar | lat=22.626404 | long=88.416153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56152584 | lastedit=2022-09-07 | content=A rather mysterious building, it is considered the first pucca brick and cement building in the Northern Suburbs of Kolkata, possibly built by the Portuguese. What is known is that it was used by British soldiers when they first entered the country. Later, Robert Clive took the area over, renovated it, added a floor to the single-storey building, and made it his country house around 1757-60. The house is located on raised ground in otherwise flat surroundings. When Clive House was excavated, a variety of artefacts were recovered, including coins, terracotta figures, sculptures, pottery and intelligence on a Portuguese fort. The articles found could be of the Sena period or may alternatively have links with the ancient [[Chandraketugarh]] civilisation. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Time Zone Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address=VIP Rd, Lake Town | lat=22.60012 | long=88.40668 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=KOLKATA TIME ZONE.JPG | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=A one-third sized replica of the iconic Big Ben in [[London]]. The tower is 30 metres in height, while Big Ben in London is 96 metres. It has ten floors and the four clock faces are each 3.6 metres in diameter, compared to 7 metres in the original. }} ===Ashrams=== [[File:Ramakrishna Math, Baranagar.jpg|thumb|Baranagar Math]] * {{see | name=Alambazar Math | alt= | url=http://alambazarmath.azurewebsites.net/ | email= | address= | lat=22.6473 | long=88.3646 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Alambazar Math | wikidata=Q17001290 | content=Second monastery of Ramakrishna Order. Swami Vivekananda first put up here after coming back from abroad. }} * {{see | name=Baranagar Math | alt= | url=http://www.rkmbaranagar.org | email= | address= | lat=22.631861 | long=88.3675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Baranagar Math | wikidata=Q14947352 | content=First monastery of Ramakrishna Order. After the death of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda and some of his other disciples permanently started to live here. Here, they decided to establish Belur Math for the first time. }} * {{see | name=Sri Sarada Math | alt= | url=http://www.srisaradamath.org/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66113 | long=88.35742 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564 5411 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-21 | content=Daily ritual worships are performed here by the nuns. The birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda, and other personalities are celebrated here, besides the Hindu festivals. Religious discourse and lectures are also done regularly. }} * {{see | name=Udyan Bati | alt=উদ্যানবাটী, Garden House | url= | email= | address=90, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.626267 | long=88.370467 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16345231 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=A monastery where Sri Ramakrishna lived from 1885 till his death in 1886. ''Kalpataru Utsav'' is celebrated every year at 1 January. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg|thumb|Kripamayee Kali Temple]] * {{see | name=Adyapeath Temple | alt= | url=http://www.adyapeath.com/ | email= | address= | lat=22.66025 | long=88.36335 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2564-6999 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-30 | content=A three-pinnacled temple dedicated to goddess Adya, and the centre of a major religious controversy. It is said that Annada Thakur received a divine command that goddess Adya was buried under the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh#Eden Gardens|Eden Gardens]] for thousands of years. He went there in 1928 and allegedly saw the statue of the goddess coming out from the ground. He consecrated the statue as the idol of this temple. But archaeologist Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay found that the statue was sculpted recently and not thousands of years ago, as Annada Thakur claimed. Later, many people got enraged to Thakur's deception, and the devotees of the goddess decided to immerse the statue to the Ganges to prevent further fury. The sanctum of the temple remained void till the consecration of the present idol. }} * {{see | name=Kacher Mandir | alt=Glass Temple | url= | email= | address=1, Pran Krishna Saha Ln | lat=22.639 | long=88.3623 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Kripamayee Kali Temple | alt=Joy Mitra Kalibari | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.637 | long=88.363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kripamayee Kali Temple | image=Joy Mitra Kripamoyee Kali Temple 04.jpg | wikidata=Q6437106 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=A ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple of Goddess Kali worshipped as Kripamayee (she who is merciful). There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Mahamilan Math | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/7, PWD Road | lat=22.6518 | long=88.3717 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The Annapurna Temple and the Omkarnath Temple are two attractions here. }} * {{see | name=Parshwanath Jain Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=26, Khudiram Bose Sarani | lat=22.6057 | long=88.3828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q67633842 | lastedit=2022-10-14 | content=Considered one of the most sacred Jain temples of worship in Kolkata. The temple also has a dharamshala equipped with modern facilities. }} * {{see | name=Pathbari Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6415 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A place where Chaitanya Mahaprabhu set his foot on his way to [[Puri]] in the early 16th century. }} ====Dakshineswar Temple Complex==== [[File:Dakshineshwar Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Dakshineswar Kali Temple]] [[File:Dakshineswar temple - panoramio.jpg|thumb|12 Shiva temples]] * {{see | name=Dakshineswar Kali Temple | alt= | url=http://www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.655 | long=88.357778 | directions=matro: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|blue}}, suburban: {{station|Dakshineswar|city=kolkata|chord}}. Both stations are connected to the temple with about {{m|330}} long skywalk, which provides a good view of the surroundings. | phone=+91 33 2564-5222 | tollfree= | hours=6:00AM-12:30PM and 3:00PM-8:30PM | price=Free | wikidata=Q1157765 | lastedit=2022-07-15 | content=A huge temple complex with the famous Hindu ''navaratna'' (nine-pinnacled) temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is worshipped here as Ma Bhavatarini. The temple complex was inaugurated by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the head and only priest of this temple from 1856 to 1886. He spent most of his life in the ''nahabat khānā'' (corruption of ''naubat xānā'', meaning "drum house") chamber of the temple complex. After Ramakrishna's death, the temple complex had been taken over by the then-Government of Bengal, later the Government of West Bengal. It attracts thousands of worshipers around the year, especially on the day of Shyama Puja, Shiva Chaturdashi, Poyla Boishakh, Akshaya Tritiya, New Year's Day and Kalpataru Utsava. Beside the main temple, there are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva along the Hooghly River and a bathing ghat. Because of the temple's importance and the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, flowing by, it is also regarded as a twin of [[Varanasi]] by the locals. }} * {{see | name=Panchavati | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65638 | long=88.35716 | directions=north of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=A complex of trees consisting of banyan (''vaṭa''), peepal (''ashvattha''), neem (''nimba''), amla (''āmlakī'') and wood apple (''bilva'') trees. This is where Ramakrishna performed his advaitic sādhanā in 1865. }} * {{see | name=Rani Rashmoni Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.65554 | long=88.35738 | directions=next to the gate of the Kali temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-05 | content=The shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple. }} ===Bridges=== * {{marker|type=see|name=Nivedita Setu|wikidata=Q7041769}} and {{marker|type=see|name=Vivekananda Setu|wikidata=Q844900}} — Two bridges across the Hooghly River, {{m|50}} apart. Vivekenanda Setu is a {{m|880}} long rail-cum-road bridge, built in 1932 as Willingdon Bridge and later renamed after Swami Vivekananda. Nivedita Setu is a newer cable-stayed bridge, named after the female disciple of Swami Vivekananda. ==Do== [[File:BRkM-6.jpg|thumb|Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission]] * {{do | name=Baranagore Ramakrishna Mission | alt=BRKM | url=http://rkmbaranagore.org | email=brkmreunion@gmail.com | address=37, Gopal Lal Tagore Rd, Baranagar | lat=22.6345 | long=88.370436 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2556-3817 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2556-3817 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19882251 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by Yogindranath Tagore (the disciple of Swami Brahmananda) in 1912. This institution celebrates many cultural programmes throughout the year. Many people come to watch those cultural events every year. }} * {{do | name=Narayani Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=15, Surya Sen Rd | lat=22.6491 | long=88.3635 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sinthee More Ground | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-01-27 | content=Hosts various local events throughout the year, including "Ajanta Circus" every winter. }} * {{do | name=Sonali Cinema Hall | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3782 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{do | name=Sreebhumi Sporting Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lake Town | lat=22.59904 | long=88.40285 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content=The club holds some of the best Durga Puja pandals in Greater Kolkata every year, with a huge crowd gathering during the festive season. }} ==Learn== [[File:Isical01.jpg|thumb|Indian Statistical Institute]] * {{listing | name=Indian Statistical Institute | alt=ISI | url=http://www.isical.ac.in/ | email= | address=Baranagar | lat=22.6482 | long=88.3768 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3105568 | lastedit=2022-10-15 | content=Founded by the statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in 1932, the institute is often considered one of the foremost centres in the world for training and research in statistics. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Chandrani Pearls | alt= | url= | email= | address=153/1, BT Rd | lat=22.6532 | long=88.3779 | directions={{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 33 2578 9025 | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM - 9PM | price= | content=Ornaments of pearls. }} * {{buy | name=Diamond Plaza | alt= | url=https://www.diamondplaza.in/ | email= | address=68, Jessore Rd, Satgachi | lat=22.61551 | long=88.41209 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Diamond plaza.jpg | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Nagerbazar | alt=নাগেরবাজার ''Nāgerbājār'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.622984 | long=88.414267 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q15260775 | lastedit=2025-01-03 | content=A major shopping centre in Dum Dum, at the crossroads of Dum Dum Rd and Jessore Rd. }} * {{buy | name=Saltee Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Jessore Rd | lat=22.62485 | long=88.41729 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Saltee Plaza - Jessore Road - Dum Dum - Kolkata 2017-08-08 4000.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} ==Eat and drink== Major food chains include '''Wow Momo''' (140, BT Rd). Major cafe chains include '''Cafe Coffee Day''' (BT Rd). You also can get lassi in several sweets shops, in '''Anandamayee Sweets''' many kinds of lassi like mango, dahi etc. are available. In the Alambazar area, you could get lassi in a sweet shop. In the Dunlop area, near Baranagar railway station and Sonali cinema hall, several fruit juice shops are available. You can also visit "Dunlop Coffee House" for coffee. * {{eat | name=Anandamayee Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=209, BT Rd | lat=22.6412 | long=88.3778 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2577 0120 | tollfree= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content=Traditional Bengal sweets, curd (in Bengali "doi"), ice cream, dhokla, lassi. }} * {{eat | name=The Cric World | alt= | url= | email= | address=44/51, BT Rd | lat=22.6339 | long=88.3785 | directions= | phone=+91 98304 15213 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 11PM | price= | content=Multi-cuisine restaurant. }} * {{eat | name=Dhaka Biryani House | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6515 | long=88.3777 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 99039 68610 (mobile) | tollfree= | hours=11AM–10:30PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Food Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rani Rashmoni Rd | lat=22.65564 | long=88.35887 | directions=close to the Kali Temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours=7AM–8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-02-06 | content=Vegetarian meals such as chole bhature. }} * {{eat | name=Food Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=144, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=suburban: {{station|Baranagar|city=kolkata|chord}} | phone=+91 99039 43648 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ganguram Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=269/2, BT Rd | lat=22.6525 | long=88.3775 | directions=near Baranagar Police Station | phone=+91 98317 36332 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM - 10PM | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Haldiram's Confectioners | alt= | url= | email= | address=140, BT Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Baranagar Road railway station | phone=+91 33 2578 0815 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM-2PM & 5-9PM| price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maharaja Bar and Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.62978 | long=88.42090 | directions= | phone=+91 83350 55881 (mobile) | tollfree= | hours=11AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-12-01 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mahua | alt=মহুয়া ''Mahuẏā'' | url= | email= | address=18/3, KC Ghosh Rd | lat=22.63041 | long=88.38403 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Dahi: ₹260 per kg | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 40-year-old shop is known for creamy dahi (দই ''dai''), and it often runs out of dahi every day. }} * {{eat | name=New Sher-e-Punjab Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=131, BT Rd | lat=22.6524 | long=88.3774 | directions=near Indian Statistical Institute | phone=+91 78901 01313 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11:30AM - 10:45PM | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Debalay Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, TN Mukherjee Rd, Dakshineswar | lat=22.65593 | long=88.35908 | directions= | phone=+91 70441 74570 (mobile) | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2022-10-19 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel Shivangan | alt= | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/fabhotel-shivangan.html | email= | address=VIP Rd, Baguiati | lat=22.6132 | long=88.4294 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2576 2711 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,900-2,800 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Airport City | alt= | url=http://www.airportcityhotel.in/ | email= | address=259, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65416 | long=88.43538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 3131 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹3,000-3,700 | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Ethnotel | alt= | url=http://ethnotel.in | email= | address=71, Jessore Rd | lat=22.65075 | long=88.43674 | directions= | phone=+91 33 7101 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-09-09 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Fern Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=204, MAR, Rajarhat | lat=22.62192 | long=88.44613 | directions= | phone=+91 70444 77444 (mobile) | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,000-4,000 | image=Fern Residency - Hotel - 204 Major Arterial Road - Rajarhat - Kolkata 2017-08-08 3934.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuka/hoteldetail | email= | address=28, Jessore Rd | lat=22.641842 | long=88.43225 | directions= | phone=+91 62899 01724, +91 33 6815 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹4,660 | wikidata=Q111861625 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Airways | alt= | url= | email= | address=Motilal Colony, Rajbari | lat=22.6467 | long=88.4341 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2513 2106 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Gateway Continental | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6419 | long=88.4307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2511 8324 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel O2 Oxygen | alt= | url=http://www.loharukahotels.com | email= | address=641, VIP Rd, Kaikhali | lat=22.63119 | long=88.43394 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2525 0078, +91 33 2525 0113, +91 98364 75753 (mobile) | tollfree= | checkin=1PM | checkout=noon | price=₹3,460-5,600 | wikidata=Q111861626 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Orbit Hotel | alt= | url=https://hotelorbit.co.in/ | email= | address=RB 29, VIP Rd, Raghunathpur | lat=22.62089 | long=88.432 | directions= | phone=+91 85840 14256 (mobile) | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price= | image=Orbit Hotel - RB 29 - VIP Road - Raghunathpur - Kolkata 2017-05-10 7599.JPG | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pipal Tree Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.pipaltreehotel.com | email= | address=AS/464, Major Arterial Road (South-East), Hatiara | lat=22.622204 | long=88.445931 | directions= | phone=+91 33 3060 6060 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111861627 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sher-e-Punjab | alt= | url= | email= | address=151, Jessore Rd | lat=22.6774 | long=88.4463 | directions= | phone= +91 33 2567 2848, +91 90888 60003 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | content=A hotel-cum-restaurant with quality Punjabi dhaba food. Chinese and Thai dishes are also available. AC or open-air seating. Drinks served. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/kolkata/ccuap/hoteldetail | email= | address= | lat=22.62319 | long=88.44338 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6699 6699 | tollfree= | checkin=8AM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,270 | wikidata=Q111402426 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/hojo/rajarhat-india/howard-johnson-kolkata/overview | email= | address=Chinar Park | lat=22.623827 | long=88.4425 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6655 7000 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600 | wikidata=Q111402425 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== The Northern Suburbs are one of the most polluted areas of Kolkata. A lot of vehicles travel through Birati and Dunlop crossings; therefore the area is very polluted. Use a mask and a handkerchief for this area. ==Cope== ===Fire stations=== * {{listing | name=Baranagar Fire Station | address=282, Deshpran Shasmal Ave | lat=22.6522 | long=88.3725 | phone=+91 33 2510 2102 }} ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Airport Police Station | address= | lat=22.64657 | long=88.43668 | phone=+91 33 2531 93000 }} * {{listing | name=Baranagar Police Station | address=47, BT Rd | lat=22.6362 | long=88.3784 | phone=+91 33 2531 9300 |lastedit=2023-05-21 }} * {{listing | name=Chitpur Police Station | address=19, Cossipore Rd | lat=22.61853 | long=88.37316 | phone=+91 33 2556 6141 }} * {{listing | name=Dum Dum Police Station | phone=+91 33 2551 4167 }} ===Post offices=== * {{listing | name=Cossipore Head Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.61892 | long=88.37213 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-04 | content= }} {{isPartOf|Kolkata}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|22.62|88.42|zoom=13}} frtpl9wjse8eqqez03s615v9jv665ep 2 130409 5090789 5090514 2025-07-10T13:18:58Z Mx. Granger 132185 /* Wikivoyage maintenance */ + 5090789 wikitext text/x-wiki {{#babel:en|es-3|zh-3|eo-2|ca-1|de-1}} __NOTOC__ ==Travels== <div style="float: right; border:solid navy 1px; margin: 4px; padding: 4px; width: 240px; align=right;"> {{center|'''Visited'''}} [[Image:Flag of the United States.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Canada.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Mexico.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Chile.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of China.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Costa Rica.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Israel.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Palestine.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Spain.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Morocco.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Andorra.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Italy.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Vatican City (2023–present).svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of San Marino.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Austria.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Germany.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of the Czech Republic.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Denmark.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Sweden.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of the Netherlands.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Belgium.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of France.svg|30px]] [[Image:Flag of Iceland.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Uruguay.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Argentina.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Paraguay.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Brazil.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Bolivia.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Peru.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Japan.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Malaysia.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Brunei.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Indonesia.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Taiwan.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Cambodia.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Thailand.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Laos.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of the United Kingdom.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Ireland.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Australia.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of New Zealand.svg|30px]] [[File:Flag of Singapore.svg|30px]] </div> {| class="wikitable" |- ! My records !! Place |- | Northernmost || [[Image:Flag of Iceland.svg|20px]] [[Reykjavík]] |- | Southernmost || [[File:Flag of Australia.svg|20px]] [[Bruny Island]] |- | Easternmost || [[Image:Flag of New Zealand.svg|20px]] [[Rangitoto Island]] |- | Westernmost || [[Image:Flag of United States.svg|20px]] [[Mendocino]] |- | Highest || [[Image:Flag of Argentina.svg|20px]] [[Humahuaca|Hornocal]] (4350m) |- | Lowest || [[Image:Flag of Israel.svg|20px]] [[Dead Sea (Israel and the West Bank)|Dead Sea]] (-430m) |- | Longest flight || [[SFO]] - [[SIN]] (16.5 hours) |- | Longest train ride || [[Seattle]] - [[Chicago]] (53 hours) |- | Longest boat ride || [[Kuching]] - [[Sibu]] (5 hours) |- | Longest bus ride || [[Sucre]] - [[La Paz]] (12.5 hours) |- | Longest journey on foot || [[Inca Trail]] (45 kilometers, 4 days) |- | Longest delay without a cancellation || 8.5 hours (bus from [[Asheville]] to [[Durham (North Carolina)|Durham]]) |- | Longest delay due to cancellation || 3 days (flight from [[Raleigh]] to [[Chicago]]) |} ==Articles I've started== * Argentina: [[Buenos Aires/Centro]], [[Buenos Aires/La Boca & Barracas]], [[Buenos Aires/Palermo & Recoleta]], [[Tigre]] * China: [[Around Erhai Lake by electric scooter]], [[Danxiashan]], [[Heyuan]], [[Shenzhen/Center]], [[Shenzhen/East]], [[Shenzhen/Nanshan]], [[Shenzhen/West]], [[Yunfu]] * Uruguay: [[Along the coast of Uruguay]], [[Artigas]], [[Bella Unión]], [[Carmelo]], [[Conchillas]], [[Florida (Uruguay)]], [[Minas]], [[Paysandú]], [[Río Branco]], [[Rivera]], [[Rocha]], [[Treinta y Tres]], [[Trinidad (Uruguay)]] * US: [[Angel Island]], [[Aniakchak National Monument]], [[Anniston]], [[Basin and Range National Monument]], [[Cape Krusenstern National Monument]], [[Empire Service and Maple Leaf]], [[Fishlake National Forest]], [[Gambier]], [[Hagerman]], [[Inner East Bay]], [[Iron Horse Trail]], [[Kobuk Valley National Park]], [[Kotzebue]], [[Larkspur and Corte Madera]], [[Linville Gorge]], [[Outer East Bay]], [[Pittsboro]], [[Rock Hill]], [[San Francisco Crosstown Trail]], [[Sandhills]] * Other: [[Amesbury (England)]], [[Atlantic slave trade]], [[Buenos Aires to Machu Picchu overland‎]], [[Culture shock]], [[Desaguadero]], [[Marine life]], [[Oak Trail]], [[Places with unusual names]], [[Rio Grande (disambiguation)]], [[San Rafael (disambiguation)]], [[Sankt Ulrich]], [[Santana do Livramento]], [[Sucre (disambiguation)]], [[Wildlife of the Southern Ocean]] ==Unidiomatic word-for-word translations== These words or phrases are often found in Wikivoyage articles. Their equivalents in languages like Spanish may be idiomatic, but they usually aren't in English. It's generally better to use one of the phrases in parentheses. * gastronomic/gastronomy (culinary, cuisine) * typical food/typical dish (local cuisine, local specialty, local food, traditional food, local dish) * touristic (tourist, touristy, for travelers, for visitors, for tourists) * architectonically (architecturally) * patrimony (heritage) ==Bay Area hiking info== * [https://hikingbytransit.com/ Hiking by Transit] * [https://crosstowntrail.org/ San Francisco Crosstown Trail] ([[San Francisco Crosstown Trail]]) * ''[https://openlibrary.org/works/OL15107381W/Hiking_Marin Hiking Marin]'' * ''Secret Stairs: East Bay'' * [[Hiking in the East Bay]] ==Wikivoyage maintenance== * [[:Category:Categories with articles needing breadcrumbs fixing after page move]] * [[:Category:Articles needing IsPartOf category]] aywmke2rg4m8azckqseltu7yc35thhz 3 132590 5091331 5089982 2025-07-11T10:36:31Z 37.250.76.55 /* Blekinge */ new section 5091331 wikitext text/x-wiki Hello, everybody! If you'd like to discuss anything with me, '''please post new topics at the bottom of the page and sign the posts with 4 tildes (the ~ key) in a row'''. Thanks! Currently inactive discussions can be found at [[User talk:Ikan Kekek/archive]]. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 14:00, 17 June 2022 (UTC) == UK phone numbers == As you already know, I have been updating entries for various UK locations, in particular updating some out of date telephone numbers (also correcting many incorrectly formatted numbers). Various directions/guidance/regulations introduced between 2010 and 2015 in the UK banned the usage of premium rate 084/087/09 numbers for many things and most organisations changed their contact telephone number(s) to comply. Many such numbers remain in use for other purposes. For those remaining numbers, Ofcom introduced rules for stating the call charges immediately adjacent to the number everywhere it is mentioned. While adding that call charge information here, I had the idea that it would be a bit easier if there was a module (is that the right word?) to help with that. I envisage typing the following to get the results shown below (underlining for emphasis only in this discussion): <pre>{{PremiumCallChargeUK|50p|}}</pre>Calls incur a 50p per <u>call</u> service charge, plus your phone provider's per-minute access charge. <pre>{{PremiumCallChargeUK||£1.50}}</pre>Calls incur a £1.50 per <u>minute</u> service charge, plus your phone provider's per-minute access charge. <pre>{{PremiumCallChargeUK|75p|40p}}</pre> Calls incur a 75p per <u>call</u> and 40p per <u>minute</u> service charge, plus your phone provider's per-minute access charge. Is this idea feasible? Is it a lot of work to set up, or fairly simple? Is there already a large queue of this type of coding work waiting to be actioned, and hence a long delay? Where would be the right place to make such a suggestion? Thanks in advance! -- [[Special:Contributions/89.241.68.238|89.241.68.238]] 07:57, 29 March 2025 (UTC) :I can try make a mockup template (which is what they're called here – modules are something entirely different) when I get some time if you want. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:15, 29 March 2025 (UTC) ::Sounds like a plan! Many thanks. ::-- [[Special:Contributions/89.241.68.238|89.241.68.238]] 08:30, 29 March 2025 (UTC) :::I don't really know much about this kind of technical stuff, but I think it's a great idea, and I appreciate what you've been doing! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 15:20, 29 March 2025 (UTC) :Should this include a timestamp? I assume the rate isn't always checked when the lastedit field should get updated. :Also, should this allow for use for other countries? For Finland, the "ppm/mvm" (your operators charge) is explained in Connect, so one doesn't need that long a wording, but otherwise I don't see why the template wouldn't work for most countries. :–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 18:03, 29 March 2025 (UTC) ::Within the 084, 087, 090, 091 and 098 number ranges, each block of 10000 numbers has a defined price point. e.g. all 0844 600 xxxx numbers have the same service charge as each other, all 0844 601 xxxx numbers may have a different service charge level, but with all numbers in that block having the same level as each other. ::In order for the service charge incurred when calling any particular organisation to change, that organisation would have to change their number to one in a number block with their required level of service charge (or, all users of a block of 10000 numbers would need to agree to a change of price). In the ten years the split charge scheme has been in force, I am not aware of a single price change for the service charge anywhere in the 084, 087, 090, 091 or 098 number ranges. I am unconvinced a datestamp is required, at least for UK usage.. ::(DQ numbers starting 118xxx are a different topic. Those numbers are individually allocated and priced and the prices for some of those numbers have changed many times in the last decade, but we don't really list those here. One is mentioned once purely as a warning as to the expense.) ::I didn't envisage a multi-country template, purely because of the specifics of the UK system. I did consider that some other countries may like their own template, and I gave a nod to that by including UK as part of the suggested template name. More discussion needed. ::-- [[Special:Contributions/89.241.66.42|89.241.66.42]] 23:13, 29 March 2025 (UTC) :::Thank you. In Finland, the charges must be told when advertising a premium-rate number, and there is a number where you can ask for the current price, but in practice, one needs to be careful – I don't know of any regulation regarding price levels or changing of price. For Finland, thus, the timestamp may be important. But as the timestamp could be optional, adding it wouldn't require a separate template. I don't know to what extent other countries require any specific handling – and one could have optional parameters for countries with their own strangenesses. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 06:22, 30 March 2025 (UTC) ::::(FYI, we would say the charges must be stated or that consumers must be informed of the charges. We wouldn't use "told" as an intransitive verb.) [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:48, 30 March 2025 (UTC) :Hi, I'm somewhat late but I've made the template you requested at [[Template:PremiumCallChargeUK]]. Haven't had much time lately but I should be a lot more free now. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:42, 10 April 2025 (UTC) ::That looks amazing. Many thanks for putting this together. That was very quick. ::I hope this is OK - I have made a couple of minor changes to the template doc introduction text for clarification on usage. ::I have held back on the initial number tidying work, that I had originally started, for a few days, and this will make the job quite a bit simpler going forward. ::I have noted the instruction not to add to articles until discussion is complete. ::-- [[Special:Contributions/89.241.66.102|89.241.66.102]] 08:43, 10 April 2025 (UTC) :::Perfect and thanks for tidying up my documentation. :) //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:46, 10 April 2025 (UTC) ::::The <code>tlx</code> part seems to break things, so I have removed it for now. ::::I have had a look at the documentation for some other templates and there seems to be a very wide variety of ways of doing things - and perhaps no one right way. I have "borrowed" a few of the things I have found along the way and updated the documentation. ::::-- [[Special:Contributions/89.241.66.102|89.241.66.102]] 17:27, 10 April 2025 (UTC) : I have added a lot more to the documentation. Any other suggestions? : -- [[Special:Contributions/89.241.66.102|89.241.66.102]] 16:06, 12 April 2025 (UTC) ==Spam reverted== I reverted some spam in article [[Manjeri]]. Just letting you know, in case you need to take any further action. -- [[Special:Contributions/89.241.66.42|89.241.66.42]] 12:06, 4 April 2025 (UTC) :Thanks, appreciated. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:19, 4 April 2025 (UTC) == Un-dead link == The official website [[Special:Diff/5050674|5050674]] is tagged as being a dead link in 2023, but appears to be working. Should the tag be removed? -- [[Special:Contributions/89.241.66.102|89.241.66.102]] 07:19, 19 April 2025 (UTC) :Definitely. But I imagine it's now https? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:23, 19 April 2025 (UTC) ::If the link is tagged again and works with Javascript enabled but not without, one can add {{tl|cbignore}}, which instructs the bot to ignore the link. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:52, 19 April 2025 (UTC) :::Thanks for the tip. -- [[Special:Contributions/89.241.66.102|89.241.66.102]] 12:36, 19 April 2025 (UTC) ::::Yeah, I didn't know about that. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 13:58, 19 April 2025 (UTC) :::::I see the other unofficial website, touted as official, has been re-posted again on the same page as before. -- [[Special:Contributions/89.241.66.102|89.241.66.102]] 23:39, 20 April 2025 (UTC) ::::::Please undo that edit, and thanks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:17, 21 April 2025 (UTC) == Thanks for the copy edits == Thanks for your last copy editing in Theft. It seems I changed my mind about what to write without changing all wordings accordingly, for the first phrase. For the last, I just didn't think of that simple word. Nice to have people improving my language – in Swedish and Finnish I can usually express myself well, and I learn a lot of English by participating here. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 16:45, 20 April 2025 (UTC) :Your English is great for a 3rd language! Glad to help, and Happy Easter! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:49, 20 April 2025 (UTC) :: :-) –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 06:47, 21 April 2025 (UTC) ==Template== Thank you for reminding me to use a template when adding new listings. Actually, I usually do use the template, but am currently adding listings via my iPhone, and I cannot locate the template link on the edit page. Any advise would be appreciated. Thank you so much [[User:SingyeDzong|SingyeDzong]] ([[User talk:SingyeDzong|talk]]) :Hi, [[User:SingyeDzong|SingyeDzong]]. There should be an easy way to add listing templates in the mobile version of this site, but I tried to figure out how to do it just now, and all I could see was to copy existing templated listings and change the content of every tab, which is a pain in the neck. So I'm going to start a thread in the [[pub]] and see if anyone else can address this problem. I have an iPhone, too, and the mobile interface on this site is not good, so there are types of edits I normally don't make until I'm at the computer. Thanks for contacting me about this. It's really no good. Best, [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 14:55, 23 April 2025 (UTC) ::<nowiki>Thank you for your reply. I have the same issue with my iPad. Hope we can find a solution to the problem. Thank you again. ~~~</nowiki> [[User:SingyeDzong|SingyeDzong]] ([[User talk:SingyeDzong|talk]]) 15:17, 23 April 2025 (UTC) :::On mobile I check the "use desktop site" option in the browser settings, and remove the "m." from the URL in the address bar, and then it all works just fine. -- [[Special:Contributions/80.47.44.159|80.47.44.159]] 15:51, 23 April 2025 (UTC) ::::That's a good workaround, but it shouldn't be necessary. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 22:14, 23 April 2025 (UTC) == Ikan Kekek song == I have no idea what this page is, but we're doing Ikan Kekek in our school choir and I was wondering if you had any info on the song seeing as you're familiar with it. Sorry to bother if not, thank you! [[Special:Contributions/159.191.206.1|159.191.206.1]] 20:07, 28 April 2025 (UTC) :That's cool! I only know it as a children's song. I don't know its history. If you find out interesting information, please let me know! And have a good performance. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:16, 28 April 2025 (UTC) ==Orchestras on Broadway== When did that change? I remember when I watched Phantom of the Opera on Broadway (around 2005 or so), it had a full orchestra accompanying it. I could most certainly hear the music coming from the orchestra pit, and it didn't seem like they were playing pre-recorded music? [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 22:01, 28 April 2025 (UTC) :Not all musicals are like Phantom. There was a musicians' strike on Broadway a bunch of years ago, and the union basically caved. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 22:30, 28 April 2025 (UTC) ==Non-breaking hyphens and spaces== You asked about " &amp;nbsp;-zione": "That looked ridiculous with the - by itself at the end of the line. But why is there now a space at the beginning of the line? I can't see how to get rid of it." It's the non-breaking space, which moves to the following line with the hyphen, as you told the renderer that those two mustn't be separated (a space, yes, which is to be kept together with the characters before and after – but whitespace in HTML should be collapsed, so the space before it may have been absorbed by the newline. What you want is a zero-width non-breaking space (nowadays replaced by the [[:w:word joiner|word joiner]]) between the hyphen and the suffix: U+2060, &amp;NoBreak; Like this: "-&amp;NoBreak;zione". Alternatively, you could use the non-breaking ("hard") hyphen, U+2011: "&amp;#x2011;zione". This Unicode character is the appropriate one, but it looks confusing in the wikitext (and if you just insert it as a character, it probably is indistinguishable from a soft hyphen for most). I don't know which construct to prefer. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:46, 9 May 2025 (UTC) :Thanks for explaining. Does it matter which of those two to use? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:06, 9 May 2025 (UTC) ::Or of four options. If wikitext editors would generally show the hard hyphen distinguishably, I would support just using the character itself. If it had an HTML code, I'd use that. The numeric code is arcane enough that I prefer the soft hyphen + word joiner solution, although it is a bit odd to use the pair instead of the character meant for this use. One solution more is the template {{tl|nowrap}}, which I probably had used unless I had got into it from the technical perspective ("but why…"). I think wikitext readability overshadows any other issues, unless there is some specific reason for one of them not working. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:51, 12 May 2025 (UTC) == Dont Remove Content == Do not delete useful information for a foreign traveler regarding the state of police violence in Greece, especially in Athens. Many tourists visit the city and should be informed. You can see and this https://www.ethnos.gr/greece/article/366346/orgiobiaskaikatastolhsstaexarxeiaoiastynomikoiespasantomisomagazileeiidiokththstoympar. Next time to be more carefull. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:RedBaronGR|RedBaronGR]] ([[User_talk:RedBaronGR|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/RedBaronGR|contribs]]) 12:40, May 19, 2025</small> :You have been blocked accordingly for 1 week for edit warring. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:47, 19 May 2025 (UTC) == Q == Hey, I know this is somewhat random but since we discussed this a bit last year and voting for U4C starts in a few days, wanted to ask you for some feedback. I've created a guide at [[m:User:SHB2000/U4C guide 2025]], but I'm wondering if it's easy to understand for non-Meta regulars. I did use a lot of abbreviations to save some space in the table but tried to clarify it, but I may have missed something. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:27, 30 May 2025 (UTC) :I'll wait a few days till I get home to my computer, because I think it'll be easier to see the whole chart. What is U4C, though? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:58, 30 May 2025 (UTC) ::Sure thing :). U4C is the charter that helps to facilitate the enforcement of the [[:wmf:UCoC|Universal Code of Conduct]], though I can't remember what it fully stands for (also [[#c-SHB2000-20240726025000-On_the_topic_of_copyvios...|previous discussion]]). //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 03:23, 30 May 2025 (UTC) :::Thanks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:31, 30 May 2025 (UTC) == FTT South Africa == Shortened my first contr. Do believe it deserves the spot since 1) the FTT was founded in RSA and 2) their website shows all certified places, handy for travellers keen on sustainable tourism. The 4 examples mentioned are all distinct & SME's or non-profit not looking for investor (relations). [[User:Frankbel|Frankbel]] ([[User talk:Frankbel|talk]]) 10:24, 9 June 2025 (UTC) :If you're asking me my opinion about an edit you made, it's a lot easier if you link it. I can look later and see if you clearly showed how this organization could be relevant and interesting to travelers. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:06, 9 June 2025 (UTC) ::[[User:Frankbel|Frankbel]], I looked at your latest edit, which was reverted. I still didn't like it. It read like a promotional edit, and some of the organizations mentioned and described in it seemed irrelevant to travelers, while the specific mention of a tour agency felt like a violation of [[Wikivoyage:Don't tout]]. I think it could be OK to mention the FTT very briefly in [[South Africa#Do]] with a link as a way for a visitor to pick a responsible tour agency if they decide to use one, but I think that's all, and a discussion at [[Talk:South Africa]] would be most useful, as hardly anyone else is likely to see this thread on my user talk page. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 16:49, 9 June 2025 (UTC) :::Get it. Give me a day or so to give decent responce. Don't want emotions to take over, and pretty bussy these days with a start-up. [[User:Frankbel|Frankbel]] ([[User talk:Frankbel|talk]]) 17:12, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ::::No worries. The site will be around whenever you have the time. Best, [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 21:28, 11 June 2025 (UTC) == Jos == The errors you fixed in [[Jos]] today, I had already fixed once just a few hours prior, but the original editor re-added them again in the meantime. That particular editor has made the same sort of errors on other pages before. -- [[Special:Contributions/78.151.51.152|78.151.51.152]] 23:04, 14 June 2025 (UTC) :I noticed you posted to their user talk page. Thanks for doing that. I hope the message gets through. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:18, 15 June 2025 (UTC) ==[[Soberanía National Park]] banner== [[wv:banners]] says: "Correctly sized banners are by default more appropriate than incorrectly sized banners." I have restored the 7:1 banner that replaced the non-standard banner. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:11, 20 June 2025 (UTC) :Ah, I didn't think the proportions were OK. It seemed to be closer to 10:1 than 7:1. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 13:50, 20 June 2025 (UTC) == Persisting in user talk discussions == Before deciding to continue a discussion related to unwanted edits, if the user has evidently refrained from that kind of edits over a considerable amount of time, even if the same is not true for other kinds of edits under the same matter, and there is no explicit warrant from the user for further criticism, you should reply with something like: :I sure hope you've refrained from making edits relating to topic that have a certain quality. ... instead of further criticism. For the example now on [[User talk:Faster than Thunder/Archive 1]], there were '''16''' days from asking me how a mikvah relates to kosher food and you pointing me to [[w:Mikveh|Mikveh on Wikipedia]], and I didn't ask explicitly for more criticism. In that period of time, I had made '''no''' ''revert-worthy'' kosher-related edits, even though I made an assumption about meat prices in the Philippines, which is different from edits indicating an unfamiliarity with kashrut. After this period of time, given that I refrained from revert-worthy kosher-related edits, persisting that I seemed to not know what a mikvah is was basically irrelevant to the title of the topic. A better response would have been: :<b style="color: rgb(127,127,127);">⋱</b>Well I sure hope you've refrained from carelessly making kosher-related edits. Per [[Wikivoyage:How to handle unwanted edits]], ''The first step in dealing with editors who make a mix of positive and negative contributions is to give them positive feedback on their constructive edits, to educate them about the community's policies and norms, and try to persuade them to edit constructively and cooperatively within those norms. If they continue to make problematic edits, the second step is to point out the specific edits (with links to the edits if they are not obvious), and to describe why they are problematic.'' Thanks. [[User:Faster than Thunder|Faster than Thunder]] ([[User talk:Faster than Thunder|talk]]) 19:21, 25 June 2025 (UTC) :If you admitted not knowing things instead of answering the way you have, you wouldn't get the kinds of responses you get, and trying to wikilawyer instead of just admitting you don't know things is not going to work very well. You can choose to stop having this discussion any time you like, but you should not have archived active discussions on your user talk page. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:27, 25 June 2025 (UTC) ::Thanks. [[User:Faster than Thunder|Faster than Thunder]] ([[User talk:Faster than Thunder|talk]]) 23:00, 25 June 2025 (UTC) ::How do my revert-unworthy kosher-related edits and my replies in the discussion taking back mistakes in previous ones during those 16 days not convince you that I have changed? They have been unreverted for a considerable amount of time now. [[User:Faster than Thunder|Faster than Thunder]] ([[User talk:Faster than Thunder|talk]]) 21:19, 26 June 2025 (UTC) :::Speaking of persisting in user talk discussions...I thought this discussion was over. You still haven't admitted to not knowing stuff you don't know. Just be readier to admit that you don't know stuff and less ready to make edits based on ignorance or knowing a few snippets of something without really understanding things. And I now consider this discussion over, unless you have some interesting new thing to talk about. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 22:16, 26 June 2025 (UTC) ::::Some people [[m:User_talk:SHB2000/2025#Could_you_please_delete_my_ill_RfA_from_3_years_ago|never learn from their ill RfAs, eh]]? //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:53, 26 June 2025 (UTC) == ping == I only worked out a few days ago how to code a ping: <code><nowiki>{{ping|username}}</nowiki></code> Hope that helps. -- [[Special:Contributions/92.21.137.132|92.21.137.132]] 22:25, 28 June 2025 (UTC) == user talk page == The page I added the translation on is a user talk page. That user's user page is pulled from meta and does not show in the wikivoyage history. -- [[Special:Contributions/92.21.137.132|92.21.137.132]] 19:31, 30 June 2025 (UTC) :Why is it here? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:57, 30 June 2025 (UTC) ::Look at the user's contributions. One edit to their user page is their only Wikivoyage contribution, and it's not even in a Roman script. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:59, 30 June 2025 (UTC) :::That's their wv user talk page. I added the translation to their talk page. :::Their wv user page is transcluded from meta and does not show in wv history. -- [[Special:Contributions/92.21.137.132|92.21.137.132]] 20:05, 30 June 2025 (UTC) ::::You're right, but the point is, they have '''no''' Wikivoyage contributions. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:07, 30 June 2025 (UTC) ::::I don't know why it is here. That may or may not become clear later. I would wait and see. It doesn't appear to be causing any harm right now. -- [[Special:Contributions/92.21.137.132|92.21.137.132]] 20:11, 30 June 2025 (UTC) :::::I started a thread at [[Wikivoyage talk:Votes for deletion#User and user talk pages for users with no Wikivoyage contributions]]. Sorry for mistaking a user talk page for a user page, but I can't see how a page entirely in Cyrillic script should be kept on any basis. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:14, 30 June 2025 (UTC) ::::::Having run the Cyrillic user page through translate, it appears to be an editor with a huge number of edits in serbian wiki, but admits to having multiple accounts - and their edit history shows recently blocked for trolling. First offence here to be met with same treatment I assume. -- [[Special:Contributions/92.21.137.132|92.21.137.132]] 20:35, 30 June 2025 (UTC) :::::::No worries on the mix up between user page and user talk page. I initially scratched my head as to why a talk page comment would be reverted. -- [[Special:Contributions/92.21.137.132|92.21.137.132]] 20:51, 30 June 2025 (UTC) == Fairfield (Ohio) == Hi there! Could you please help me understand why you reverted my edit to [[Fairfield (Ohio)]]? Thanks! [[User:GoingBatty|GoingBatty]] ([[User talk:GoingBatty|talk]]) 04:00, 6 July 2025 (UTC) :Sorry, that was a finger slip, and I didn't even realize I had done it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:02, 6 July 2025 (UTC) == Lint errors == I have cleaned up 40+ lint errors in [[:Special:LintErrors/empty-heading]] today. There's just a few left to do. One error is in your User Talk Page Archive (click on the special link to see the list, then click on edit to see the error code highlighted in blue). The error on your archive page is that one of the headings contains an external link instead of plain text. Suggest replacing this code ... <code><nowiki>==[http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Turkiyede-Ruzgar-Enerjisi&rcid=1826647]== </nowiki></code><br> <code><nowiki>It's all written in Turkish and lately we had a couple of turkish articles that don't belong here. Is it worth to keep or not? </nowiki></code> ... with this code ... <code><nowiki>== Turkiyede-Ruzgar-Enerjisi == </nowiki></code><br> <code><nowiki>It's all [[http://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Turkiyede-Ruzgar-Enerjisi&rcid=1826647|written in Turkish]] and lately we had a couple of turkish articles that don't belong here. Is it worth to keep or not? </nowiki></code> This will retain all of the original message and the link whilst clearing the lint error. -- [[Special:Contributions/92.21.137.132|92.21.137.132]] 14:47, 6 July 2025 (UTC) :Here's a similar one fixed earlier today ... [[:Special:Diff/5088524]]. -- [[Special:Contributions/92.21.137.132|92.21.137.132]] 15:00, 6 July 2025 (UTC) ::Thanks. I don't really care about minor errors in an archive of my user talk page that no-one is likely to look at, though. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 18:45, 6 July 2025 (UTC) :::The errors appear in a category designed specifically to guide clean up. It's a 30 second job to fix this one. One copy and paste. -- [[Special:Contributions/92.21.137.132|92.21.137.132]] 19:17, 6 July 2025 (UTC) ::::Right, and I know you've been singlemindedly working on it, but why should I care if another user made an unimportant error on my user talk page that's now archived? I don't need to edit their work. Just because it makes your job seems incomplete? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:25, 6 July 2025 (UTC) == WARN! == Why did you create my Talk Page without my permission? [[Special:Contributions/74.195.77.161|74.195.77.161]] 19:45, 7 July 2025 (UTC) :Huh? Where did you get the idea that a user had to create their own user talk page? That's completely untrue. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:21, 7 July 2025 (UTC) ::And I guess this is my answer to what you're doing. Explain it, or we'll have to block you. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:23, 7 July 2025 (UTC) == 4 years == Completely random, but is it just me who finds it hard to comprehend that today marks [[Special:Redirect/logid/3684335|4 years since you promoted me to admin]] (and that it's also been 4 years since {{u|Ground Zero}} nominated me). Time really does fly. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:35, 9 July 2025 (UTC) :It seemed longer to me. :-) [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:58, 9 July 2025 (UTC) == Blekinge == Hello, I've noticed the template and I will work in that direction. [[Special:Contributions/37.250.76.55|37.250.76.55]] 10:36, 11 July 2025 (UTC) 6fi7tjy0deb8m9t0sjaf058mrm403vb 0 134554 5090806 5031958 2025-07-10T13:30:01Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090806 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Avranches-banner-01.jpg}} '''Avranches''' is a town on the coast in the south-west corner of [[Manche]], at the base of the Cotentin Peninsula. [[Mont Saint-Michel]] is quite nearby. The town was liberated by American troops during the [[D-Day_beaches#Cotentin_Peninsula|Normandy campaign]] after the D-Day invasion of World War II; there is a monument. ==Understand== [[File:Normandie Manche Avranches1 tango7174.jpg|thumb|Monument at Patton Square]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=Municipal Tourist Office | alt=Office Municipal de Tourisme | url=https://www.ot-montsaintmichel.com/index.htm | email= | address=2 Rue du Général de Gaulle | lat=48.686502 | long=-1.362482 | directions= | phone=+33 2 33 58 00 22 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-20 | content= }} ==Get in== === By car === On the A84 {{km|100}} south-west of [[Caen]], {{km|80}} north of [[Rennes]]. There is some free parking places near the tourist office but it can be difficult to find a space, more spaces available near the Le Jardin des Plantes. ==Get around== ==See== [[File:Avranchesjardindesplantes.JPG|thumb|Botanical garden]] * {{see | name=Le Scriptorial | alt= | url=http://www.scriptorial.fr/ | email= | address=Place d'Estouteville | lat=48.688246 | long= -1.360652 | directions= | phone=+33 2 33 79 57 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3226982 | lastedit=2017-07-19 | content=museum containing manuscripts from Mont-Saint-Michel }} * {{see | name=Le Jardin des Plantes | alt= | url=http://www.avranches.fr/Environnement/Jardin-des-plantes | email= | address=Place Carnot | lat=48.684471 | long=-1.365410 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-19 | content=Small botanical garden with a great view towards Mont Saint-Michel }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Le Littré | alt= | url=http://www.lelittre.fr/ | email= | address=8 Rue du Dr Gilbert | lat=48.686105 | long= -1.361742 | directions= | phone= +33 2 33 58 01 66 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-20 | content=Refined dining at a reasonable price }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Logis Hôtel de la Croix d'Or | alt= | url=http://www.hotel-restaurant-avranches-croix-dor.com/en | email= | address=83 Rue de la Constitution | lat=48.682563 | long= -1.356721 | directions= | phone= +33 2 33 58 04 88 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ALTOS Hotel & Spa | alt= | url=http://www.hotel-mont-saint-michel.com/ | email= | address= 37 Boulevard du Luxembourg | lat=48.676033 | long= -1.354707 | directions= | phone= +33 2 33 58 66 64 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-20 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Go next== *[[Mont Saint-Michel]] *[[Granville (Normandy)]] *[[Vire]] {{routebox | image1=Autoroute française 84.svg | imagesize1=50 | directionl1=SW | majorl1=[[Rennes]] | minorl1=[[Fougères]] | directionr1=NE | minorr1=[[Saint-Lô]] | majorr1=[[Cherbourg]] / [[Caen]] }} {{IsPartOf|Manche}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|48.687|-1.359|zoom=13}} aadsl9ph4gwuqa48fwdi8vulj5o4av9 0 142588 5090746 5090697 2025-07-10T12:28:40Z Pashley 1822 /* The tide turns */ 5090746 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wikivoyage banner Bombardment of Kamaishi.jpg|caption=The bombardment of Kamaishi, July 1945|ftt=yes}} The '''Pacific War''' was a theatre of World War II including [[East Asia]], [[Southeast Asia]] and [[Oceania]], separate from [[World War II in Europe]]. Western accounts generally consider the war to have started with the [[Pearl Harbor]] attack of December 1941. Chinese accounts date it from Japan's invasion of the Chinese heartland in July 1937 (see [[World War II in China]]) or even their expansion into [[Manchuria]] in 1931. The war ended with Japanese surrender in August 1945; an important factor was that the first, and so far the only, atomic bombs used in warfare were detonated over [[Hiroshima]] and [[Nagasaki]]. {| style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto; text-align:center;" | Theatres of World War II:<br>'''[[World War II in Europe|Europe]] • [[World War II in Africa|Africa]] • [[World War II in China|China]] • Pacific''' |} To a great extent the 1937-1945 Second Sino-Japanese War was part of the Pacific Theatre, the overall war of many nations against Imperial Japan. In some ways, though, it was unique; it started before the more general war, was a land and air war rather than largely naval and island-hopping, and was fought almost entirely by the Chinese themselves without much involvement of their allies. Also, all its battlegrounds and memorials are in China. Wikivoyage therefore has a separate [[World War II in China]] article. ==Understand== {{seealso|Japanese colonial empire}} [[Japan]] underwent major changes starting with the American Commodore Matthew Perry's "gunboat diplomacy" visit in 1853 which forced the government to sign a number of humiliating and disadvantageous treaties with Western powers. Japan reacted to this shock by quickly "modernizing" along Western lines, copying legal and institutional approaches and sending young Japanese to universities in Europe and the United States to bring home "Western knowledge". After that, Japan quickly became established as the first non-Western industrialized country and a major power in East Asia. [[File:Mutsuhito-Emperor-Meiji-1873.png|thumb|Emperor Meiji ruled 1868 to 1912<br/>Note the Western-style clothing and sword]] The Meiji Restoration of 1868 broke the power of the shoguns who had been the real rulers for centuries (albeit always acting in the Emperor's name) and restored the Emperor to a central role. However, while the Emperor did regain political power and prestige, a "Meiji oligarchy" around him ran most of the daily affairs of state. Japan began to expand in the late 19th century, annexing [[Okinawa]] in 1879, then defeating China in the 1894-95 First Sino-Japanese War, annexing [[Taiwan]] and the [[Liaoning|Liaodong Peninsula]], and forcing China to give up its influence over its vassal state [[Korea]]. In the same period, the US became more active in the Pacific, taking over the [[Philippines]] in 1898 after a war with Spain, and annexing [[Hawaii]] and [[Guam]]. Various European powers also expanded their holdings or influence in the region. The British, aiming to counter Russian influence, helped both China and Japan to build modern navies in the late 19th century. The French sank most of the Chinese fleet at the [[Mawei#See|battle of Fuzhou]] in 1884, but the Japanese fleet did considerably better. Japan won a war against the [[Russian Empire]] in 1905, the first time in centuries that an Asian nation had won a war against a country mostly considered "Western". Indeed Russian Tsar Nicholas II had emphasized his "defender of European Christendom" image in racist war propaganda. Once the Russians were out of their way, Japan annexed Korea outright in 1910. Japan, with the largest navy in the Pacific, was part of the victorious Allies during [[World War I]], and was able to conquer the German colonies in the area. It would thus gain more territory from the defeated Central Powers following the end of that war in 1918, including the former German concessions in [[Shandong]], China. Such actions by Japan would later result in the May Fourth Movement, which is further described in [[Chinese revolutions#Understand|our article on early 20th century Chinese history]]. There was a faction fight among the Japanese high command in the late 1930s; they all agreed that expanding the empire was a fine idea, but how? Should they: * "Strike North", expand into [[Mongolia]] and [[Siberia]] and fight only the [[Soviet Union]]? * "Strike South" fighting the US, the [[British Empire]], and other colonial powers &mdash; the French, Dutch and Portuguese? The Imperial Way Faction (皇道派), which supported an invasion of the Soviet Union, even tried a coup (the February 26 Incident) in 1936, but that failed. Striking north was tried, but in 1939 the [[Soviet Union|Soviets]] gave Japanese forces a thorough thrashing at the [[Choibalsan#The_battle_of_Khalkhin_Gol|Battle of Khalkhin Gol]] in Mongolia. After that, Japan concentrated on striking south; arguably, this was a catastrophic blunder. Among other effects, it allowed the Soviet Union to re-deploy their battle-hardened Siberian troops to the European front, which helped turn the tide of that war eventually leading to the Allied victory in Europe. It also led directly to the attack on [[Pearl Harbor]] and war with all the nations already allied against Germany; this ended badly for Japan. ===China=== {{main|World War II in China}} Japan acquired [[Taiwan]] and some territory in [[Manchuria]] after winning the First Sino-Japanese War in 1895. They expanded their influence there when they defeated the Russians in 1905; in particular they took over administration of the profitable Russian-built railway. After [[World War I]] they got the former [[Chinese_provinces_and_regions#Treaty_ports_and_concessions|German concessions]] in [[Shandong]]. Then in 1931 they staged the [[Shenyang|Mukden]] Incident; Japanese troops bombed part of the railway, the attack was blamed on Chinese forces, and that gave Japan a pretext to occupy Manchuria, setting up a puppet state called Manchukuo. Japan invaded central [[China]] in 1937 and soon managed to occupy much of eastern China, including the then-capital [[Nanjing]]. This led to eight years of continuous fighting, until the Japanese surrender in 1945; see [[World War II in China]]. Roughly half of the total Japanese ground forces were tied down in China throughout the war, including troops they had planned to use elsewhere. All the Allied land victories in the Pacific War were partly due to Chinese tenacity. American, British and Dutch sanctions were imposed on Japan after the invasion of China; those, in particular restrictions on oil imports, were the main reason Japan gave for going to war with those nations. The Western powers also sent supplies to China via the [[Burma Road]]. The Soviet Union and America also sent volunteer air force units to support China, with the American one based in [[Yunnan]] known as the "Flying Tigers". The Chinese resistance against Japanese rule was also financially supported by many overseas Chinese. === Japan joins the world war === Meanwhile, [[World War II in Europe]] began with the German invasion of Poland in September 1939, and became more complex when Germany invaded the Soviet Union in June 1941. [[File:USS West Virginia2.jpg|thumb|USS West Virginia on fire in Pearl Harbor during the Japanese attack]] {{quote|Yesterday, December 7th, 1941 — a date which will live in infamy — the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.|author=US President Franklin D. Roosevelt, December 8, 1941}} The conflict became global in December 1941, when [[Japan]] attacked [[Pearl Harbor]], other US bases in the Pacific, the [[Philippines]], and British possessions such as [[Hong Kong]], [[Myanmar|Burma]] and [[Malaya]]. The [[United States]] and the entire British Empire immediately declared war on Japan, and Germany declared war on the US. The [[Soviet Union]] did not declare war on Japan until after the end of the war in Europe, in May 1945. After the Japanese surrender, it reclaimed the territories that the Russian Empire had lost to Japan in the 1904-05 Russo-Japanese War, and also took the [[Kuril Islands]], which remain disputed between Russia and Japan to this day. === Japanese conquests === Early in the war, Japan invaded and occupied much of [[Southeast Asia]] and parts of [[Oceania]]; they even managed to bomb the city of [[Darwin]] in [[Australia]]. By the middle of 1943, virtually all of Southeast Asia had been conquered by Japan, with the colonial powers of the [[United Kingdom]], [[France]], the [[Netherlands]], [[Portugal]] and the United States all having suffered humiliating defeats at the hands of the Japanese. [[File:Civilian War Memorial, Singapore - 20140802.jpg|thumb|The Civilian War Memorial in Singapore. Japanese occupying forces massacred over ten thousand civilians, mostly ethnic Chinese.]] The Japanese took effective control of some areas without fighting. The Vichy government in France, essentially a German puppet regime, ordered French administrators in French Indochina (now [[Vietnam]], [[Laos]] and [[Cambodia]]) to collaborate with Japan, and most did. [[Thailand]], the only country in Southeast Asia not colonized by Western powers, remained nominally independent but was forced to dance to the Japanese tune. Japan was able to establish military bases in these countries and to freely move troops and supplies through them. Japanese propaganda claimed they were driving out Western imperialists, leading an "Asia for Asians" movement, and this got them some support; countries such as [[India]] had both pro-Japanese and pro-Allied movements. Subhas Chandra Bose, the leader of the pro-Japanese Indian National Army (INA), is widely regarded as a national hero in India. In many areas, this was also divided along ethnic lines; in Malaya, at least initially, the Japanese were welcomed by many ethnic Malays and Indians, but opposed by most ethnic Chinese. In China both the Kuomintang and the Communists opposed Japan, but they were sometimes more interested in fighting each other. Everywhere, the local political movements were jockeying for control and trying to use the war to gain independence and/or domestic political influence for the time after the war. Japanese rule in the occupied territories was brutal, and by the end of the war, the Japanese had lost the support of much of the local population who initially supported them (e.g. Burmese independence hero Aung San). In the occupied areas, Japanese troops engaged in mass rapes, massacres and pillaging, with the [[Nanjing#Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall|Nanjing Massacre]] of 1937-38 being the most notorious. Many women from China, Korea and other occupied areas were forced to serve as "comfort women", sex slaves in Japanese military brothels. The Japanese also performed inhumane experiments on captive locals from the occupied territories, the most famous being Unit 731 in Manchuria (listed below), though other similar units existed throughout the occupied territories. They also treated prisoners of war very badly; perhaps the most famous incidents were the "[[Bataan]] death march" and the use of POWs as slave labour for the [[Kanchanaburi|Bridge on the River Kwai]], but there were many others. As retribution for their role in resisting Japanese rule in China, the ethnic Chinese &mdash; both in China and in Southeast Asia &mdash; were singled out for the harshest treatment; in all the occupied territories, they were rounded up for "screening" by the Japanese, and the unfortunate ones who were identified (often arbitrarily) as anti-Japanese were brought to remote locations and shot. === The tide turns === The Japanese suffered two important naval defeats at the hands of the Americans in mid-1942, the Battle of the Coral Sea (northeast of Australia) in May and the Battle of [[Midway Islands|Midway]] (northwest of Hawaii) in June. [[File:Wounded Australian soldier led by a Papuan orderly at Buna.jpg|thumb|A Papuan leading a wounded Australian soldier during the Kokoda campaign]] The Coral Sea was tactically close to a draw &mdash; each side lost one carrier and many aircraft &mdash; but can be counted as a US strategic victory, since the planned Japanese landings to take [[Port Moresby]] in New Guinea were prevented. Midway was a clear US victory, with many Japanese carriers sunk. Both battles killed a number of elite Japanese naval aviators, a catastrophe for Japanese forces. These were the first naval battles in history fought mainly by aircraft carriers which never came within sight of each other. The Americans were intercepting Japanese communication, and had broken many Japanese codes, which was an advantage in both battles. At Midway they surprised the Japanese by destroying some carriers when the planes were away on a bombing raid. Two land campaigns, both starting in mid-1942 and lasting until early 1943, also went badly for Japan. In what is now [[Papua New Guinea]], the ANZACs (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps) gave them their first defeat on land at [[Milne Bay]] then, in a hard-fought campaign, drove them back along the [[Kokoda Track]]. Meanwhile the Americans took the island of [[Guadalcanal]] after a prolonged and intense fight, allowing them to defend their supply and communication lines to Australia and New Zealand, and to create a forward base for island-hopping toward Japan. These Allied victories marked the turning point in the Pacific War. After that the ANZACs continued the New Guinea campaign and invaded the [[Solomon Islands]], while the British re-took Burma with the help of the Chinese, and reopened the [[Burma Road]] to supply Chinese forces. The Japanese had spread their forces too thinly in China, and the Chinese were able to counterattack and reclaim some of the occupied territories. The Americans re-took the Philippines and captured a series of islands across the Pacific, including some like [[Guam]] and [[Wake Island]] that Japan had taken from them in the first months of the war. At sea, Japan was defeated repeatedly by the Americans, with some Commonwealth help. The Battle of Leyte Gulf was the largest naval battle of the war; it took place during the invasion of the [[Philippines]], and was a major Allied victory. === End of the war === When the Americans took the [[Mariana Islands]] (including [[Saipan]] and [[Guam]]) in 1944, the ground fighting was intense with heavy casualties on both sides. However the "Great Marianas Turkey Shoot" saw over 550 Japanese aircraft destroyed, while America only lost about 120 aircraft. This was a disaster for the Japanese, who were already running short of both planes and pilots. Air bases in the Marianas allowed the US to directly attack Japan with its long-range B-29 bombers; there were devastating fire bombing raids on many Japanese cities, including a huge one against [[Tokyo]]. The atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki by B-29s from [[Tinian]]. In early 1945 the US won fierce battles in [[Okinawa]] and [[Ogasawara Islands|Iwo Jima]] and occupied those islands, putting them in position to attack the Japanese home islands with shorter-range aircraft or to invade. Having by then won the naval part of the war, they also bombarded Japanese cities with their ships. Japan tried desperation tactics such as sending ''kamikaze'' (translates as "godly wind", named after typhoons that sank the invading [[Mongol Empire|Mongol]] fleet in the 13th century) pilots on suicide missions to crash planes full of explosives into American ships, but even that did not make a large difference. The invasion never took place. The Americans dropped the first (and to date only) atomic bombs to be used in actual combat on [[Hiroshima]] on 6 August 1945, followed by [[Nagasaki]] on 9 August 1945; on the same day the Soviet Union invaded Manchuria. Japan surrendered unconditionally to the Allies on 15 August 1945, bringing World War II to an end. ===Aftermath=== Following the surrender, Japan was occupied by the Americans and forced to give up all its colonies. While the Emperor remained on his throne, many political and military leaders were indicted in the ''International Military Tribunal for the Far East'', and many were sentenced to death. [[File:Surrender of Japan - USS Missouri (restored).jpg|thumb|Japanese officials on board the USS Missouri during the surrender ceremonies on 2 September 1945]] The Americans also imposed a new pacifist constitution on Japan, forbidding it from establishing a military, and turning it into a democratic constitutional monarchy. However, when the [[Cold War]] began, the American occupiers established the National Police Reserve, a paramilitary organization that would later develop into the Japan Self-Defense Forces, the ''de facto'' military of the country. Taiwan and Manchuria were returned to China, though the Chinese Civil War would resume following the Japanese surrender, eventually resulting in victory for the Communists in the mainland, and the Nationalists being forced to retreat to Taiwan, which continues to be governed separately to this day. Korea regained its independence, but would be split into communist [[North Korea]] and capitalist [[South Korea]], leading up to the [[Korean War]]. The Americans would eventually leave mainland Japan in 1952, though the American military continues to maintain several bases in different parts of the country. Okinawa was only returned to Japan in 1972, though the United States continues to maintain a strong military presence there. The Western colonial powers also got their colonies back, but the war had galvanised many nationalist movements, which were to come of age in the years to come and eventually lead to the independence of the colonies. The first was the [[Philippines]], where American rule ended in 1946; the largest was the end of the [[British Raj]] in 1947, which became the modern countries of [[India]], [[Pakistan]] and later [[Bangladesh]]. See also [[Indian independence movement]]. The [[Indochina Wars]] were a brutal example of lingering national and ideological conflict in Asia. [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] would eventually be given back to China in the 1990s but part of the agreement between China and the former colonial powers stipulates a "one country two systems" arrangement that makes both act like independent countries in some regards. A few Japanese soldiers, isolated in various jungles, did not know the war had ended and fought on. The last two surrendered in 1974, one on the Philippine island of [[Lubang]] and the other on Indonesia's [[Morotai Island]]. Two Japanese soldiers would join communist guerrillas in Malaya and Thailand after the end of the war, and only surrendered in 1989 after the end of the communist insurgency. ==Sites== Many places that were sites of battles, atrocities or other wartime activities can be visited. There are also many museums with exhibits wholly or partly related to this war. {{Mapframe|25|-10|zoom=1|layer=W|height=300|width=500}} ===Australia=== {{seealso|Military museums and sites in Australia}} Australia and New Zealand declared war on Germany in 1939 shortly after the UK did, and fought for the Allies in Europe and [[World War II in Africa|North Africa]]. As the Japanese attacked American and British territory in the Pacific, most of these troops were relocated to the Pacific theatre. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Adelaide River War Cemetery | alt= | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2023510/ADELAIDE%20RIVER%20WAR%20CEMETERY | email= | address=| lat=-13.23116 | long=131.11444 | directions=[[Adelaide River]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q38160721 | lastedit=2017-08-09 | content=The main cemetery for military personnel and civilians killed in northern Australia during the Second World War, including as a result of the dozens of Japanese air raids on Darwin and nearby airfields as well as the little known bombings in Coomalie Creek, Adelaide River and Litchfield National Park. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Australian War Memorial | alt= | url=https://www.awm.gov.au/ | email= | address=[[Canberra/North Canberra|North Canberra]] | lat=-35.280500 | long=149.149100 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Australian War Memorial | wikidata=Q782783 | content=Located in [[Canberra]], the memorial also includes a military museum dedicated to the memory of Australian soldiers who fought in various wars including both world wars. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Darwin Military Museum | alt= | url=http://www.darwinmilitarymuseum.com.au | email= | address= | lat=-12.407517 | long=130.819769 | directions=[[Darwin]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Darwin Military Museum | wikidata=Q5226003 | content=Darwin was an important staging point for Australian and American forces during the war, and would be the only Australian city that was subject to Japanese bombing raids. The bombings of Darwin are the only post-colonial acts of war against Australia. The museum houses exhibits about the bombing of Darwin. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=MacArthur Museum | alt= | url=http://www.mmb.org.au/ | email= | address= | lat=-27.46855 | long=153.02742 | directions=[[Brisbane]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This museum covers the career of American General Douglas MacArthur, who commanded the Allied forces in the South West Pacific from Brisbane between 1942 and 1944 from what are now the Museum's premises, as well as Brisbane's experiences in World War II.}} * {{listing | name=[[Broome]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q606294 | lastedit=2022-02-12 | content=Broome was attacked by the Japanese on 3 March 1942 by fighter planes. Although Broome was no more than an insignificant tiny pearling port, it was a major stopover point for refuelling when going from modern day Indonesia to the other cities of Australia. Learn more about the attack at the Broome Historical Museum. }} * {{listing | name=Wagga Wagga War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/4003836/wagga-wagga-war-cemetery/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Wagga Wagga]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7959532 | lastedit=2022-08-30 | content=Perhaps Australia's most famous war cemetery, home to the graves of several Australian soldiers who died fighting in World War II. }} ===Canada=== Canadian troops were mostly active in the European theatre, though they also fought in the Battle of Hong Kong as part of the British forces. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Canadian War Museum | alt= | url=https://www.warmuseum.ca/ | email= | address=[[Ottawa]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Canadian War Museum | wikidata=Q1032442 | lastedit=2021-08-23 | content=Canada's main military history museum, with displays commemorating the efforts of Canadian troops in various wars and peacekeeping missions, including both world wars. }} ===China=== [[File:AntijapaneseWarMemorialMuseum.jpg|thumb|Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression]] For sites in Mainland China, see '''[[World War II in China]].''' For historical reasons, sites in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan are listed separately on this page. ''This does not represent an endorsement of any political position.'' ===Hong Kong=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sai Wan War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2000320/SAI%20WAN%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Hong Kong/Eastern District|Chai Wan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Labuan War Cemetery | wikidata=Q2148037 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Canadian, Indian and local Chinese soldiers who died in the Battle of Hong Kong. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sha Tau Kok Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall | alt=沙頭角抗戰紀念館 | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.53656 | long=114.20888 | directions=[[Hong Kong/New Territories|Sha Tau Kok]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-06 | content=Opened in September 2022, this is the first comprehensive museum about the Second World War in Hong Kong. The museum is at the former home of the Luo Family, which was the first base of operations for Communist-led guerrilla fighters from the Mainland who came across the border to help resist the Japanese. }} ===India=== India was for the most part spared the horrors of World War II, though Indian troops were used by the British military for their war efforts elsewhere, and eastern India was used as a staging point for Allied troops fighting in Burma. The Japanese had attempted to invade India through [[Imphal]] and [[Kohima]] in 1944 from then Japanese-occupied Burma, with help from the Indian National Army (INA), a pro-Japanese Indian independence movement. However, the combined British and Indian forces were successful in repelling the Japanese attacks, forcing the Japanese into a retreat by July 1944. World War II would also be a major cause of the [[Bengal]] Famine in 1943, as the British diverted nearly all the food to support their war effort in Europe and left next to nothing for the Bengalis. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Imphal War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2064600/IMPHAL%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Imphal]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Imphal War Cemetery | wikidata=Q19840225 | content=Commonwealth war cemetery with the graves of British and Indian soldiers who died in the Battle of Imphal. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kohima War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2058100/kohima-war-cemetery/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Kohima]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kohima War Cemetery | wikidata=Q19841008 | content=Commonwealth war cemetery with the graves of British and Indian soldiers who died in the Battle of Kohima. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Chinese Cemetery, Ramgarh | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=23.609910930907077 | long=85.4879024693129 | directions=[[Jharkhand]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | content=Chinese war cemetery built by the Nationalists, with the graves of hundreds of Chinese soldiers who died fighting in the Burma Campaign, most of them unidentified. }} ===Japan=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Okinawa Peace Park and Himeyuri Monument | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=26.09661 | long=127.725645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-08-30 | content=The site of one of the most brutal and bloody battles of the war, [[Okinawa]] island has many war remnants and memorials. Outside of Japan, Okinawa is often viewed as the first battle on Japanese soil. However, like the other Pacific Islands, Okinawa was also colonized territory so the local population was not fully trusted by the Japanese and often treated as expendable. With the Americans being obvious enemies and the Japanese not being complete allies, the question on many Okinawans' minds was not "How am I going to survive?" but "How do I want to die?". The museums here show the war from a uniquely Okinawan perspective, including life for citizens, students and military. It also depicts well how they were mistreated by both the Japanese and the Americans during and after the war. The Peace Park and the Himeyuri Monument in [[Itoman]] are the best places to learn about the battle, but remnants and reminders of the war can be found throughout the island. }} [[File:Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima, larger - edit1.jpg|thumb|American soldiers raising the flag on Iwo Jima]] *{{listing | type=listing | name=[[Ogasawara Islands|Iwo Jima]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.783333 | long=141.316667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Iwo Jima | wikidata=Q201633 | content=Another group of islands close to Japan, scene of some extremely fierce fighting. An image of victorious US Marines raising the Stars and Stripes there is quite famous. [http://www.miltours.com/ US Military Tours] has exclusive rights to the island, and only U.S. citizens are eligible to visit. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots | alt= | url=http://www.chiran-tokkou.jp/english/ | email= | address= | lat=31.363333 | long=130.434444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots | wikidata=Q4458048 | lastedit=2016-01-10 | content=As the war approached the home islands, the desperate Japanese began sending out young men to fly aircraft packed with explosives into American ships. The museum is located in [[Chiran]] over the former spot where the ''tokko'' pilots (known abroad as kamikaze pilots) were trained and flew from. The museum contains information about the pilots, artifacts and letters from them, and recovered kamikaze planes. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Hiroshima Peace Park and Memorial Museum | alt= | url=http://www.pcf.city.hiroshima.jp/virtual/VirtualMuseum_e/tour_e/tour_fra_e.html | email= | address= | lat=34.392728 | long=132.452374 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park | wikidata=Q1207208 | lastedit=2015-08-30 | content=[[Hiroshima]] was the first place in the world to be attacked with an atomic bomb. The museum shows how devastating the bomb was to the city and the effects it had on the people from the immediate aftermath to the present day. }} * {{listing | name=Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Memorial Hall | alt= | url=http://www1.city.nagasaki.nagasaki.jp/na-bomb/museum/museume01.html {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat=32.772778 | long=129.865 | directions=[[Nagasaki]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum | wikidata=Q1099077 | lastedit=2015-08-30 | content=Museums that are on the site where the atomic bomb was dropped on August 9, 1945. The Nagasaki bombing led to Japanese surrender and is also noted as the last place to have an atomic bomb dropped on it. }} * {{listing | name=Oka Masaharu Memorial Nagasaki Peace Museum | alt=岡まさはる記念長崎平和資料館 | url=https://www.okakinen.jp/ | email= | address= | lat=32.75523 | long=129.87216 | directions=[[Nagasaki]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=One of the very few places in Japan where the war crimes of the Japanese army during the Second World War are documented. Another focus of the exhibition lies on the foreign victims of the atomic bomb and their struggle for recognition and compensation. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Peace Osaka | alt=大阪国際平和センター | url=http://peace-osaka.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat=34.681667 | long=135.53 | directions=[[Osaka/Osaka_castle|Osaka Castle area, Osaka]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Osaka International Peace Center | image=Peace-osaka.jpg | wikidata=Q7105564 | content=A museum dedicated to the promotion of peace through displays of war. Because it is an Osaka museum, it largely focuses on the effects of American aerial bombings on Osaka between December 1944 and August 1945. In the past, the museum also had exhibitions depicting the atrocities committed by Japan against China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Sadly, however, those exhibitions were permanently removed in 2015 in response to pressure from conservative political groups. }} * {{listing | name=Yasukuni Shrine | alt=靖國神社 Yasukuni-jinja | url=http://www.yasukuni.or.jp/english/ | email= | address= | lat=35.694167 | long=139.743056 | directions=[[Tokyo/Chiyoda|Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Yasukuni Shrine | image=Yasukuni Jinja 7 032.jpg | wikidata=Q242803 | content=A controversial shrine to Japan's war dead, housing the souls of some 2.5 million people killed in Japan's wars &mdash; including numerous Taiwanese and Koreans, and controversially, convicted war criminals executed by the Allies. Often visited by Japanese and Taiwanese politicians, drawing sharp criticisms from neighbours China and South Korea in the process. If you choose to visit, consider keeping it a secret from your Chinese or Korean friends. Also on the grounds of the shrine is the '''Yūshūkan War Memorial Museum''', which displays much World War II paraphernalia and presents a rather one-sided (and allegedly revisionist) account of World War II. }} ===Mongolia=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Khalkhin Gol]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.730278 | long=118.59 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Battles of Khalkhin Gol | wikidata=Q188925 | content=Site of a battle in 1939 in which the Soviets demolished a large Japanese force. This turned Japanese thinking away from expansion into [[Mongolia]] and [[Siberia]]; instead they adopted a "strike south" strategy which led directly to Pearl Harbor and their attacks in [[Southeast Asia]]. }} ===Southeast Asia=== ====Brunei==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Brunei-Australia Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=[[Bandar Seri Begawan]] | lat=5.037835056706218 | long=115.07569591085982 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-07-23 | content=Memorial on Muara Beach commemorating the landing site of the Australian soldiers who fought in the Battle of North Borneo to liberate Brunei from Japanese occupation. }} ==== Indonesia ==== * {{listing | name=Ambon War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2015000/ambon-war-cemetery/ | email= | address= | lat=-3.674812 | long=128.191813 | directions=[[Ambon]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Ambon.jpg | lastedit=2022-07-04 | content= The cemetery contains Australian soldiers who died during the Japanese invasion of Ambon and Timor in World War II }} ==== Malaysia ==== * {{listing | name=Bank Kerapu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.13191 | long=102.23549 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q12474498 | lastedit=2019-04-04 | content=There is a small war memorial and museum in the former Bank Kerapu building in [[Kota Bharu]], [[Malaysia]], which served as a secret police station during the Japanese occupation; it might not merit a special trip but is worth visiting if you are in Kota Bharu. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Labuan War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/17000/LABUAN%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Labuan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Labuan War Cemetery | wikidata=Q6467670 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian and Indian soldiers who died in the Borneo campaign. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Penang War Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=5.28147 | long=100.28872 | directions=[[Bayan Lepas]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Located at southeastern tip of Penang, it's a large abandoned military fortress built in the 1930s by the British to protect the southern approaches to the island. The British Royal Engineers and a work force of local labourers blasted and dug into the hill to create a fort with underground military tunnels, an intelligence and logistic centre, halls, offices, ventilation shafts, artillery firing bays, sleeping quarters, cook houses as well as an infirmary. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sandakan Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=5.88854 | long=118.047183 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sandakan Memorial Park | wikidata=Q2799368 | content=This memorial in the Malaysian city of [[Sandakan]] was built at the site of a former Japanese POW prison camp with funding from the Australian government to commemorate the Allied POWs who lost their lives during the Sandakan Death Marches. Only 6 people out of several thousand survived the march, and only because those 6 managed to escape. Incidentally, all 6 survivors were Australian. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Taiping War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/94500/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Taiping]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Taiping War Cemetery | wikidata=Q7676344 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian, Indian and Malayan soldiers who died in the Malaya Campaign. }} ====Myanmar==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Burma Road]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=23.5 | long=98.9 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Burma Road | wikidata=Q478684 | content=This road ran from Western China into Burma (now [[Myanmar]]) and connected to [[Assam]] in Eastern India as well. It was built by the Chinese in the late 1930s, upgraded by the Americans later, and used throughout the war. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Taukkyan War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/94500/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Taukkyan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Taukkyan War Cemetery | wikidata=Q7688705 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Indian and African soldiers who died in the Burma Campaign. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2007400/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Thanbyuzayat]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery | wikidata=Q19840907 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian, Indian, New Zealander, Canadian and Dutch POWs who died while building the Death Railway in Burma. }} ====Philippines==== [[File:US_Navy_041020-N-0493B-003_Backed_by_a_monument_marking_the_location_of_Gen._Douglas_MacArthur's_return_to_the_Philippines_60_years_ago,_a_Philippine_Marine_Corps_honor_guard_stands_at_attention_during_the_playing_of_Taps.jpg|thumb|MacArthur's landing site]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Corregidor Island]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Corregidor | wikidata=Q928075 | content=Established as an American fort to defend Manila from naval attacks, it fell to the Japanese in 1942, and was liberated in 1945. This is where General MacArthur left and uttered his most famous line "I shall return", a promise he fulfilled in 1944. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Capas]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Capas | wikidata=Q56427 | content=A largely rural municipality housing Camp O'Donnell, an American military camp turned into a POW camp where the infamous Bataan Death March in 1942 ended. Two memorial shrines dedicated to the American and Filipino prisoners of war who suffered and died under the hands of the Japanese are erected here, and two abandoned railroad stations where the prisoners were unloaded have been turned into museums and memorials. The exact number of prisoners on the march is unknown; estimates range from 6,000 to 18,000. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Coron]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12 | long=120.2 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Coron, Palawan | wikidata=Q111414 | content=This town in [[Palawan]] Province has excellent wreck diving; the US Navy sank about a dozen Japanese ships in shallow water nearby in 1944. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.172222 | long=125.012222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park | wikidata=Q18157528 | content=This is where General McArthur landed on his return to the country in 1944; it is in [[Palo]] municipality on [[Leyte Island]], near [[Tacloban]]. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Camp Pangatian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Raid at Cabanatuan | wikidata=Q705083 | content=A former American military camp turned into a POW camp by the Japanese, it is the site of the raid at Cabanatuan, a major engagement of the liberation of the Philippines in 1945. The camp, now a shrine, is northeast of [[Cabanatuan]] city (then a rural area) in [[Nueva Ecija]] province. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Manila American Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.abmc.gov/Manila | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Manila]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Manila American Cemetery | wikidata=Q12061468 | content=Cemetery where numerous American and Filipino soldiers who were killed during World War II were buried }} ==== Singapore ==== As the headquarters of the British forces in Malaya, there are numerous World War II sites scattered throughout Singapore, including several abandoned pillboxes and coastal gun batteries, as well as numerous beaches where the ethnic Chinese were brought to be shot by the Japanese in the Sook Ching Massacre. We cover a selection of some of the more important sites here. * {{listing | name=Alexandra Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.ah.com.sg/ | email= | address= | lat=1.286444 | long=103.801222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A former British military hospital, and the site of the Alexandra Hospital Massacre on 14-15 February 1942, in which Japanese soldiers massacred the staff and patients despite them having already surrendered. Today, it remains in use as a public hospital, and the original colonial-era hospital building has been preserved and remains in active use. There is also a plaque on the hospital grounds commemorating the victims of the massacre. }} * {{listing | name=The Battlebox | alt= | url=http://www.battlebox.com.sg/ | email= | address= | lat=1.29611 | long=103.846216 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A former British military bunker and command centre which served as the headquarters for the British forces in Malaya during the Malayan Campaign. It was here that Lieutenant-General Arthur E. Percival met with his senior officers and made the decision to surrender to the Japanese. It has been converted to a museum dedicated to the Malayan Campaign, with a re-enactment of how it functioned during the war. }} [[File:Changi Museum, Singapore - www.joyofmuseums.com - external.jpg|thumb|The gates at the Changi Museum]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=Changi Museum | alt= | url=http://www.changimuseum.sg/ | email= | address= | lat=1.3622 | long=103.974 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Changi Museum | wikidata=Q5072000 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=A former POW camp-turned-museum has information about the Japanese occupation of [[Singapore]] and what life was like in the POW camp. It focuses on the general history and conditions as well as containing personal accounts and artifacts donated by former prisoners. It has a replica of the '''Changi Chapel''' that was built by Australian POWs in captivity; the original was dismantled and moved to [[Canberra]] after the war, where it now stands in the Royal Military College, Duntroon. You can also see replicas of the '''Changi murals''', Christian murals that were painted by British POW Stanley Warren while in capitvity; the original murals are located in a military airbase and off limits to the general public. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Civilian War Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q5124736 | lastedit=2020-09-23 | content=Monument commemorating the local civilians who lost their lives during the Japanese occupation. The remains of many unidentified victims are buried under the memorial. }} * {{listing | name=Ford Motor Factory | alt= | url=http://www.nas.gov.sg/formerfordfactory | email= | address= | lat=1.352558 | long=103.769292 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A former factory of American automobile manufacturer Ford, and the first motor vehicle factory to be opened in Southeast Asia. This is also the site where the British lieutenant-general Arthur E. Percival surrendered unconditionally to Japanese general Tomoyuki Yamashita on 15 February 1942, thus ending the Malayan Campaign. It was also used by the Japanese to produce military vehicles during the occupation. It has now been converted to a museum dedicated to life in Singapore during the Japanese occupation. The boardroom in which the surrender took place has also been reconstructed for viewing. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Fort Siloso | alt= | url=https://www.sentosa.com.sg/en/things-to-do/attractions/fort-siloso/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q4419293 | lastedit=2020-09-22 | content=One of four British forts on what was then the island of Pulau Blakang Mati, today known as Sentosa. It is the only one of the four to have been restored as a tourist attraction, and contains the remnants of some British artillery guns, as well as interactive displays and a re-enactment of the unconditional surrender of the British forces to the Japanese. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kranji War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2004200/KRANJI%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kranji War Cemetery | wikidata=Q6436095 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian, Indian and Malayan soldiers who died in the Malayan Campaign. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Labrador Nature Reserve | alt= | url=https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/labrador-nature-reserve | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q14874451 | lastedit=2020-09-22 | content=The site of numerous British artillery gun emplacements during World War II. Today, you can see the remains of those gun emplacements, numerous pillboxes, and a network of underground tunnels that were used to store ammunition and move them to the gun emplacements. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Lim Bo Seng Memorial | alt= | url=https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/history/memorials/lim-bo-seng-memorial/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q54321624 | lastedit=2021-07-23 | content=Memorial dedicated to local war hero Lim Bo Seng, who participated in covert operations against the Japanese as part of Force 136, a branch of the British World War II intelligence agency. After being captured by the Japanese, he refused to divulge any information about his comrades despite being tortured, and eventually died of dysentery in prison in June 1944 at the age of 35. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Reflections at Bukit Chandu | alt= | url=https://www.nhb.gov.sg/what-we-do/our-work/preserve-our-stories-treasures-and-places/museums-and-institutions/reflections-at-bukit-chandu | email= | address= | lat=1.27945 | long=103.79407 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Reflections at Bukit Chandu | wikidata=Q7307287 | content=An interpretive centre of the Battle of Pasir Panjang, one of the fiercest battles in the Malayan Campaign that pitted the Malay Regiment (today the Royal Malay Regiment, the most decorated regiment in the Malaysian Army) against the Japanese. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sook Ching Inspection Centre | alt= | url=https://www.roots.gov.sg/places/places-landing/Places/historic-sites/sook-ching-inspection-centre | email= | address= | lat=1.283834 | long=103.846073 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sook Ching | content=The site where the occupying Japanese conducted their "screening" of the ethnic Chinese in Malaya after rounding them up. The unlucky ones who were identified as anti-Japanese were brought to the beaches and shot. Today, a plaque stands on the site to commemorate the victims of the massacre. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Syonan Jinja | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.344769 | long=103.822533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Syonan Jinja | content=A Shinto shrine built by the occupying Japanese in Singapore (which they re-named Syonan-to) in 1942, located at MacRitchie Reservoir, and destroyed after the Japanese surrender on 15th August 1945. The ruins of the shrine still exist, but are now in the middle of the jungle with no footpaths leading there, making it very hard to find. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Syonan Chureito | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.350892 | long=103.766769 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bukit Batok Memorial | content=A memorial built by Australian POWs to honour the Japanese war dead during World War II, with a smaller memorial behind that to commemorate the Allied war dead. Both memorials were torn down following the Japanese surrender, and today, only the road and stairs leading up to the memorial, as well as two pedestals at the bottom of the stairs, survive. A television transmission tower now occupies the former memorial site. }} ====Thailand==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Death Railway | alt=ทางรถไฟสายมรณะ | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-02-16 | content=The strategic railway tracks began from Nong Pla Duk Station in Amphoe Ban Pong, Ratchaburi, and ran via Kanchanaburi across the Khwae Yai River, westbound to the Three Pagodas Pass, to end at Thanbuyuzayat in Burma. Total length in Thai territory was 300&nbsp;km. The railway took only one year to complete, from October 1942–October 1943. After the war, some lengths of track were demolished and some submerged under the lake of Khao Laem Dam. }} ** {{listing | type=listing | name=Bridge over the River Kwai | alt=Saphan Mae Nam Kwae | url= | email= | address= | lat=14.04090 | long=99.50370 | directions=[[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | fax= | hours= |checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=This iron bridge across the Kwai Yai River is the main attraction for many visitors. Immortalized in the famous movie and novel, it was a part of the infamous '''Death Railway''' to [[Myanmar|Burma]], constructed by POWs working for the Japanese in hellish conditions during WWII. Some 16,000 POWs and 90,000 Asian workers (most of them enslaved) died during railway construction. The present iron bridge is the second wartime incarnation (a part of the original can be found in the War Museum), but two central box spans were rebuilt after the war to replace three sections destroyed by Allied bombing. }} ** {{listing | type=listing | name=Hellfire Pass | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=80 km northwest of [[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-02-16 | content=Only relocated in the 1980s, '''Konyu Cutting''' (known as '''Hellfire Pass''' by POWs and Asian labourers who cut and blasted through rock by hand to clear this pass for the Death Railway) has been reclaimed from the jungle as a profound war memorial funded by the Australian government. Excellent museum and self-guided walking tour facilities are available. The descent through the jungle down to the pass (listening to oral histories through audio headsets) is a moving experience. Annual Anzac Day Dawn Service are held here. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kanchanaburi War Cemetery | alt=สุสานทหารสัมพันธมิตรดอนรัก | url=http://www.cwgc.org/ | email= | address= | lat=14.03122 | long=99.52567 | directions=[[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-16 | content=This is the final resting place of 6,982 POWs who gave their lives for the construction of the Death Railway to Burma. All POWs at this site are from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Australia. After WWII, the Allies moved all the buried POWs along the railway line to two war cemeteries in Kanchanaburi so as to be easier to maintain. The graves are set in straight lines with neatly mown lawns, and some have moving personal inscriptions. Exceptionally well maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it is a sombre yet peaceful reminder of what happened. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Thailand-Burma Railway Centre | url=http://www.tbrconline.com/ | email= | address= | lat=14.03232 | long=99.52478 | directions=[[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Generally considered to be the best source of information regarding World War II in Thailand, railway construction and route, and the conditions endured by POWs and Asian labourers. Very moving exhibits, including video and interactive displays. }} ===Pacific Ocean=== [[Image:Aerial photograph of Wake Island on 25 May 1941.jpg|thumb|The Wake Island atoll from the northeast, in 1941]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Wake Island]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.3 | long=166.633333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Wake Island | wikidata=Q43296 | content=This US-controlled island was taken by Japan shortly after Pearl Harbor and held by them throughout the war. There are ruins of Japanese fortifications, a monument for the American defenders who put up a stiff fight despite being badly outnumbered and outgunned, and a monument for a group of 98 POWs executed by the Japanese. Today the island is a US military base, off limits for most visitors except through the occasional guided tour. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Midway Islands]] | alt= | url=https://www.fws.gov/refuge/midway_atoll/ | email= | address= | lat=28.20935 | long=-177.37813 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Midway Atoll | wikidata=Q47863 | content=The site of the Battle of Midway, one of the major turning points in the Pacific War. The atoll is today home to memorials commemorating the battle. It is only populated by U.S. government personnel, and access is highly restricted; visits by the general public are generally only possible through a guided tour. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Henderson Airfield | alt={{IATA|HIR}} | url= | email= | address= | lat=-9.428 | long=160.054789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Honiara International Airport | wikidata=Q859876 | lastedit=2015-12-14 | content=The Japanese began constructing an airfield in May 1942 in [[Honiara]] on Guadalcanal. Knowing that if they completed it, they'd be able to both isolate Australia from its allies and launch potentially devastating attacks, America quickly moved to take control of the airfield. It took six months to secure the airfield, after which the Americans finished construction on it and used it to launch attacks on other islands.</br>Henderson Airfield was later expanded to become the international airport of the [[Solomon Islands]], so of course it can be visited. Other sites around the airport include Bloody Ridge (where America defended against the Japanese), the Gifu (named after the [[Gifu|city by the same name]], it was a Japanese post attacked by the US), Mount Austin (used by the Japanese to get a full view of the airfield in their plan to retake it), as well as memorials for both the Americans and Japanese that fought here. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Betio Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.356266 | long=172.931607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Betio | wikidata=Q831455 | lastedit=2015-12-14 | content=Within a few days of Pearl Harbor, the Japanese took the [[Gilbert Islands]], then a British colony, now part of the independent nation [[Kiribati]]. America's first attack on Japanese forces occurred in [[Butaritari]], in the Gilberts, shortly after that.</br>In late 1943, the Allies came to oust Japan from the islands, which by then had been heavily fortified. Betio Island in [[Tarawa]] was the site of the '''Battle of Tarawa''', considered to be one of the bloodiest battles of the war. While war relics can be found on multiple islands throughout Kiribati, Betio Island is where the main battle took place and also where the most remains. Visitors can see tanks, bunkers, shipwrecks, guns, and memorials built by the Japanese, Americans, and Australians and New Zealanders. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Kokoda Track]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-8.898155 | long=147.739798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kokoda Track | wikidata=Q1424748 | lastedit=2016-01-25 | content=An important battle line in [[Papua New Guinea]], between [[Australia]] and [[Japan]], it is now a trekking destination, especially for Australians. }} [[File:Nauru-WWIIrelic.jpg|thumb|Remains of a Japanese gun on Nauru's Command Ridge]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=Command Ridge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-0.530547 | long=166.916702 | directions=[[Nauru]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Command Ridge | wikidata=Q2667931 | lastedit=2017-03-25 | content=During World War II, Nauru was occupied by the Japanese from August 1942 until their surrender at the tail end of the war in the wake of three years of near-continuous Allied air raids. Today, rusting relics from this era are scattered throughout the island — disused Japanese pillboxes line the shore every couple of kilometres, and old cannons can be seen along roadsides barely hidden by forest or even in plain sight between homes.</br>However, for those who want a firsthand look at Nauru's WWII history, Command Ridge (Nauruan: ''Janor'') is the place to go. As the island's highest point, rising to an elevation of 63 m above sea level, it was a natural lookout point for the occupiers. Today you'll find a bevy of old artillery emplacements (including a pair of six-barrel antiaircraft guns still pointed skyward), the ruins of a prison complex used to hold interned Nauruan natives (who were treated brutally by the Japanese) as well as five members of the Australian military captured during the invasion, and — most impressive of all — the former communications center, now open for any visitors to enter. The interior is not well lit, but bring in a lantern or torch and you'll still be able to make out faded Japanese writing on the walls. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Guam#Other_destinations|War in the Pacific National Historical Park]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.422508 | long=144.675661 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=War in the Pacific National Historical Park | wikidata=Q7968628 | content=On [[Guam]], but part of the US national park system since Guam is an American territory. The park honors all those who fought in the Pacific, not just on Guam and not just Americans. Guam was taken by the Japanese early in the war and retaken by the US in 1944. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Gizo]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-8.1058 | long=156.8350 | directions=[[Solomon Islands]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Gizo, Solomon Islands | wikidata=Q1236908 | content=Located on Ghizo Island, Gizo evokes the memories of vivid fighting in WWII. It is nowadays a tourist centre and some wrecks can be found underwater, including the Toa Maru. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Peleliu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=7.00 | long=134.25 | directions=[[Palau]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Peleliu | wikidata=Q497981 | content=Once a heavily fortified Japanese stronghold, Peleliu was the scene of a particularly brutal battle when U.S. Marines made an amphibious assault on the beaches to liberate the island from Imperial Japanese forces, who evolved tactics in a network of rocky caves in the surface of Umurbrogol Mountain (Bloody Nose Ridge). Today, the island is filled with relics, with intact military installations and an airstrip. It also has memorials honoring sacrifice to those who died in the fighting. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Angaur | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.9092 | long=134.1388 | directions=[[Palau]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Angaur | wikidata=Q530813 | content=This coraline island was once a Imperial Japanese command post until it became the site of the battle in 1944 as part of Operation Forager, when the 81st Infantry Division gained complete control of the island. Many of its American and Japanese battle relics remain scattered across the island. Often known as Monkey Island, Angaur is the only place in Micronesia inhabited by feral monkeys, descended by macaques that escaped during German occupation. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Enewetak Atoll | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.4654 | long=162.1890 | directions=[[Marshall Islands]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Enewetak Atoll | wikidata=Q649190 | content=Formerly known as Eniwetok, the island was the site of Operation Catchpole, when the marines fought a five-day amphibious assault on the island to gain control of a Japanese-owned airfield. Since 1980, Enewetak has been a habitable island. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kuop | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=7.058889 | long=151.919167 | directions=[[Federated States of Micronesia]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kuop | wikidata=Q1131149 | content=An atoll just southeast of the Chuuk Lagoon and known as Neoch. On February 4th, 1944, the Japanese destroyer ''Tachikaze'' ran aground on a reef and was later sunk in Operation Hailstone. Nowadays it is officially the largest marine protected area in Micronesia. }} ===South Korea=== Korea was a Japanese colony from 1910-1945, and many Korean men were drafted into the Japanese military. The Japanese had subjected Korea to a brutal occupation, in which the Korean language and culture were vigorously suppressed, and numerous Koreans were subject to live human experimentations without anaesthetic. Perhaps most notoriously, many Korean women were forced to become "comfort women"; sex slaves in Japanese military brothels. * {{listing | name=War & Women's Human Rights Museum | url=https://womenandwarmuseum.net | lat=37.5601 | long=126.9148 | content=South Korea's main museum dedicated to the memory of the "comfort women". }} ===Taiwan=== Taiwan was a Japanese colony from the end of the first Sino-Japanese war in 1895 until 1945, and many Taiwanese were enlisted into the Japanese military. Unlike in other Asian countries, the Taiwanese generally have positive views of Japanese colonial rule, and regard its legacy as an integral part of their national and cultural identity, though there are exceptions. Nevertheless, massacres of both ethnic Chinese and Aboriginal people occurred throughout the occupation. Although not as well-known as their Korean counterparts, numerous Taiwanese women were also forced to serve as "comfort women". The last Japanese holdout to be found alive was Attun Palalin, better known by his Japanese name Teruo Nakamura, an [[Indigenous Taiwanese culture|indigenous Taiwanese]] of Amis ethnicity who was enlisted as a private into one of the Japanese military's colonial units. He was repatriated to Taiwan following his discovery in 1974 on the island of [[Morotai]], [[Indonesia]], and died of lung cancer in 1979. * {{listing | name=Ama Museum | alt=阿嬤家-和平與女性人權館 | url=https://www.amamuseum.org.tw/en | email= | address= | lat=25.0645 | long=121.5181 | directions=[[Taipei/Old Taipei|Old Taipei]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ama Museum | wikidata=Q24837610 | content=Museum dedicated to the memory of the Taiwanese women who were forced to serve as "comfort women" in Japanese military brothels. }} * {{listing | name=Jinguashi | alt=金瓜石 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Ruifang|Ruifang, New Taipei]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-18 | content=A small village which is near the Gold Ecological Park and the Jinguashi Mine, which is one of the largest gold mines in the world. From 1942 to 1945, the area was the location of the Kinkaseki POW Camp, where over 1,100 Allied prisoners of war were held captive and forced to work in the mines. There is a small memorial at the site of the POW camp. In the area is also the ruins of a Shinto shrine that was built by the Japanese. | wikipedia=Jinguashi | wikidata=Q5365867 }} * {{listing | name=National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine | alt=國民革命忠烈祠 | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.078406 | long=121.533043 | directions=[[Taipei/Zhongshan|Zhongshan District, Taipei]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine | wikidata=Q5956488 | content=Temple memorializing those who gave their lives for the Republic of China (ROC) during its tenure on mainland China including during the Second Sino-Japanese War. There is a changing of the guard ceremony every hour, on the hour from 09:00 to 17:00, which involves an impressive and highly synchronized rifle-twirling display by soldiers from the Taiwanese military. }} ===United States=== * {{listing | name=Pearl Harbor | lat=21.365 | long=-157.95 | content=Site of the bombing in [[Honolulu/Western|Western Honolulu]] that caused the [[United States]] to enter the war. }} * {{listing | name=The National WWII Museum | alt= | url=https://www.nationalww2museum.org | email= | address=[[New Orleans]] | lat=29.943139 | long=-90.07035 | directions= | phone=+1 504 528 1944 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The National WWII Museum | wikidata= | content=Museum commemorating the American war effort in both theatres of World War II, with interactive displays that aim to re-create the battlefield experience for visitors.}} [[File:MacArthur Memorial.jpg|thumb|The MacArthur Memorial]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=MacArthur Memorial | alt= | url=http://www.macarthurmemorial.org | email= | address=198 Bank St; Norfolk, Virginia | lat=36.847701 | long=-76.28862 | directions= | phone=+1-757-441-2965 | tollfree= | fax=+1-757-441-5389 | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM; Su 11AM-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=MacArthur Memorial | wikidata=Q22073406 | lastedit=2019-04-02 | content=Museum dedicated to the life of Douglas MacArthur, the general who led U.S. forces to victory over the Japanese in the Philippines, and was appointed Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces. His grave is located within the museum. MacArthur is one of the few non-presidents to have been granted a U.S. state funeral. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial | alt= | url=http://www.nps.gov/poch/ | email= | address= | lat=38.0575 | long=-122.029722 | directions= | phone=+1 925 228-8860 ext 6520 (reservations) | tollfree= | hours=Tours available Th-Sa at 12:45PM (allow 1½ hours). Not all dates and times may be available. No public access Su-We | price= | wikipedia=Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial | image=Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial POCH 0011.jpg | wikidata=Q7230541 | lastedit=2019-04-06 | content=This memorial honors 320 individuals (including 200 young African American men) who were killed in a munitions accident during World War II while loading munitions and bombs onto ships bound for the Pacific Rim. Following the explosion many of the enlisted men refused to work, resulting in the Navy's largest mutiny trial and eventually helping to push the US Armed Forces to desegregate. The memorial is located on an active military base and as a result '''reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance''' and '''all visitors must be US citizens or permanent residents'''. Reservations can be made by calling or via an [http://www.nps.gov/poch/planyourvisit/permits-and-reservations.htm online reservation form]. All visitors are shuttled to the memorial from John Muir National Historic Site in nearby [[Martinez (California)|Martinez]]. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Aleutian World War II National Historic Area | alt= | url=http://nps.gov/aleu/ | email= | address= | lat=53.89494 | long=-166.53967 | directions=Visitor Center located on the apron of the Dutch Harbor airport | phone=+1 907 581-1276 | tollfree= | hours=Year round, but May-October offer the best access | price=Free | lastedit=2019-04-06 | content=This site is the remains of one of four WWII era forts constructed to defend Dutch Harbor against a potential Japanese attack. The visitor center is free, however, a Land Use Permit must be obtained to visit the historic site on Mount Ballyhoo. }} [[File:Iwo_Jima_Memorial_5.JPG|thumb|Marine Corps War Memorial]] * The {{marker|type=listing|name=US Marine Corps Memorial|lat=38.890432|long=-77.069714}} at [[Arlington (Virginia)|Arlington]], Virginia, depicts the famous scene of the raising of the (American) flag on [[Ogasawara Islands|Iwo Jima]], whose history is told by the movie ''Flags of our Fathers'' directed by Clint Eastwood. One of the soldiers involved, Ira Hayes, is commemorated in a fine song by Johnny Cash. * {{listing | type=listing | name=US National Museum of the Pacific War | alt= | url=http://www.pacificwarmuseum.org | email= | address= | lat=30.2719 | long=-98.8653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Museum of the Pacific War | wikidata=Q6974516 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=In [[Fredericksburg (Texas)]], home town of Admiral Chester Nimitz who commanded US forces in part of the Pacific, this is a large museum complex with many exhibits. }} * {{listing | name=Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=http://www.intrepidmuseum.org/ | email= | address=[[Manhattan/Theater District|Theater District]], [[New York City]] | lat=40.764722 | long=-74.000833 | directions= | phone=+1 212 245-0072 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Apr-Sep: M-F 10AM-5PM, Sa Su 10AM-6PM; Oct-Mar: Tu-Su 10AM-5PM | price=$16.50 adult | wikipedia=Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum | image=Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum, Manhattan.jpg | wikidata=Q952270 | content=The aircraft carrier ''USS Intrepid'' (CV-11), which had participated in World War II, is docked here and has been converted to a museum ship. The carrier was hit by numerous kamikaze attacks in the latter stages of the war, and there are now several interactive displays commemorating the casualties of the kamikaze attacks. }} * {{listing | name=Arlington National Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/ | email= | address=[[Arlington (Virginia|Arlington]], [[Virginia]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q216344 | content=The main military cemetery of the United States, home to the graves of numerous soldiers who died fighting in various wars including both world wars.}} A number of sites in the US commemorate the internment of Japanese-Americans during the war. * {{listing | name=Manzanar Internment Camp | alt= | url=http://www.nps.gov/manz/index.htm | email= | address=[[Independence (California)|Independence]], [[California]] | lat=36.728333 | long=-118.154444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Manzanar | image=Manzanar Tower (6713406239).jpg | wikidata=Q985484 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=The largest internment camp in the United States where approximately 110,000 Japanese-Americans and Japanese nationals living in the United States during the war were forced to live after being ordered to leave their homes. This museum contains information about the camp, the experiences of those who were forced to live here, and life after the war. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=WWII Japanese American Internment Museum | alt= | url=http://rohwer.astate.edu/plan-your-visit/museum/ | email= | address=McGehee, Arkansas (near [[Lake Village (Arkansas)|Lake Village]]) | lat=33.6283 | long=-91.3951 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Japanese American Internment Museum | wikidata=Q16849571 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=A former internment camp turned into a museum to educate people about the lives of Japanese-Americans at the Rohwer Relocation Center. It also includes information about the Jerome Japanese American Relocation Center that was built nearby in Jerome. Because this museum covers both, there is no museum in Jerome. The Jerome site only features a small monument in rememberance of its internnment camp. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Topaz Museum | alt= | url=http://www.topazmuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=39.414397 | long=-112.772732 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Topaz War Relocation Center | wikidata=Q7824771 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=The Topaz Relocation Center (internment camp) housed over 11,000 Japanese-Americans. Because people were moved here before it was finished, internees were actually hired to build the wire fences to pen themselves in. }} * {{listing | name=Tule Lake Segregation Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/tule/ | email= | address= | lat=41.889444 | long=-121.374722 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tule Lake Unit, World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument | image=Tule Lake camp main.jpg | wikidata=Q5944942 | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=Tule Lake was another internment camp, and the one to house Japanese-Americans that the American government regarded as particularly "dangerous" to segregate them from American society and eventually deport some of them. }} * {{listing | name=Minidoka National Historic Site | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/miin/index.htm | email= | address=near [[Twin Falls]], Idaho | lat=42.679 | long=-114.244 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q927150 | lastedit=2021-10-19 | content=Most of the camp's buildings were removed after the war and can be found throughout the Magic Valley region. However, the site has remains of the guard entry station, waiting room, and rock gardens as well as a reconstructed guard tower. }} * {{listing | name=Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial | alt= | url=http://bijaema.org/ | email= | address=[[Bainbridge Island]], Washington | lat=47.6153 | long=-122.51 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4848541 | lastedit=2021-10-19 | content= }} ==Respect== While few living people remember the war, the countries involved have not always found reconciliation. In particular, the relationships between Japan and its neighbors China and South Korea are still tense today. Outside Japan and Taiwan, you should avoid displaying the Rising Sun Flag in East and Southeast Asia, as that would be the equivalent of displaying the Nazi flag in the West. ==See also== * [[World War II in China]] * [[World War II in Europe]] * [[World War II in Africa]] * [[Japanese colonial empire]] * [[World War I]] * [[Holocaust remembrance]] * [[Industrialization of the United States]] for non-military US history of the 1930s and 40s * [[Long March]] * [[Nuclear tourism]] {{PartOfTopic|World War II}} {{guidetopic}} axl9f3ytjopxyhfvq7lrqtdaf8cfipt 5090778 5090746 2025-07-10T12:59:34Z Pashley 1822 /* The tide turns */ 5090778 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wikivoyage banner Bombardment of Kamaishi.jpg|caption=The bombardment of Kamaishi, July 1945|ftt=yes}} The '''Pacific War''' was a theatre of World War II including [[East Asia]], [[Southeast Asia]] and [[Oceania]], separate from [[World War II in Europe]]. Western accounts generally consider the war to have started with the [[Pearl Harbor]] attack of December 1941. Chinese accounts date it from Japan's invasion of the Chinese heartland in July 1937 (see [[World War II in China]]) or even their expansion into [[Manchuria]] in 1931. The war ended with Japanese surrender in August 1945; an important factor was that the first, and so far the only, atomic bombs used in warfare were detonated over [[Hiroshima]] and [[Nagasaki]]. {| style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto; text-align:center;" | Theatres of World War II:<br>'''[[World War II in Europe|Europe]] • [[World War II in Africa|Africa]] • [[World War II in China|China]] • Pacific''' |} To a great extent the 1937-1945 Second Sino-Japanese War was part of the Pacific Theatre, the overall war of many nations against Imperial Japan. In some ways, though, it was unique; it started before the more general war, was a land and air war rather than largely naval and island-hopping, and was fought almost entirely by the Chinese themselves without much involvement of their allies. Also, all its battlegrounds and memorials are in China. Wikivoyage therefore has a separate [[World War II in China]] article. ==Understand== {{seealso|Japanese colonial empire}} [[Japan]] underwent major changes starting with the American Commodore Matthew Perry's "gunboat diplomacy" visit in 1853 which forced the government to sign a number of humiliating and disadvantageous treaties with Western powers. Japan reacted to this shock by quickly "modernizing" along Western lines, copying legal and institutional approaches and sending young Japanese to universities in Europe and the United States to bring home "Western knowledge". After that, Japan quickly became established as the first non-Western industrialized country and a major power in East Asia. [[File:Mutsuhito-Emperor-Meiji-1873.png|thumb|Emperor Meiji ruled 1868 to 1912<br/>Note the Western-style clothing and sword]] The Meiji Restoration of 1868 broke the power of the shoguns who had been the real rulers for centuries (albeit always acting in the Emperor's name) and restored the Emperor to a central role. However, while the Emperor did regain political power and prestige, a "Meiji oligarchy" around him ran most of the daily affairs of state. Japan began to expand in the late 19th century, annexing [[Okinawa]] in 1879, then defeating China in the 1894-95 First Sino-Japanese War, annexing [[Taiwan]] and the [[Liaoning|Liaodong Peninsula]], and forcing China to give up its influence over its vassal state [[Korea]]. In the same period, the US became more active in the Pacific, taking over the [[Philippines]] in 1898 after a war with Spain, and annexing [[Hawaii]] and [[Guam]]. Various European powers also expanded their holdings or influence in the region. The British, aiming to counter Russian influence, helped both China and Japan to build modern navies in the late 19th century. The French sank most of the Chinese fleet at the [[Mawei#See|battle of Fuzhou]] in 1884, but the Japanese fleet did considerably better. Japan won a war against the [[Russian Empire]] in 1905, the first time in centuries that an Asian nation had won a war against a country mostly considered "Western". Indeed Russian Tsar Nicholas II had emphasized his "defender of European Christendom" image in racist war propaganda. Once the Russians were out of their way, Japan annexed Korea outright in 1910. Japan, with the largest navy in the Pacific, was part of the victorious Allies during [[World War I]], and was able to conquer the German colonies in the area. It would thus gain more territory from the defeated Central Powers following the end of that war in 1918, including the former German concessions in [[Shandong]], China. Such actions by Japan would later result in the May Fourth Movement, which is further described in [[Chinese revolutions#Understand|our article on early 20th century Chinese history]]. There was a faction fight among the Japanese high command in the late 1930s; they all agreed that expanding the empire was a fine idea, but how? Should they: * "Strike North", expand into [[Mongolia]] and [[Siberia]] and fight only the [[Soviet Union]]? * "Strike South" fighting the US, the [[British Empire]], and other colonial powers &mdash; the French, Dutch and Portuguese? The Imperial Way Faction (皇道派), which supported an invasion of the Soviet Union, even tried a coup (the February 26 Incident) in 1936, but that failed. Striking north was tried, but in 1939 the [[Soviet Union|Soviets]] gave Japanese forces a thorough thrashing at the [[Choibalsan#The_battle_of_Khalkhin_Gol|Battle of Khalkhin Gol]] in Mongolia. After that, Japan concentrated on striking south; arguably, this was a catastrophic blunder. Among other effects, it allowed the Soviet Union to re-deploy their battle-hardened Siberian troops to the European front, which helped turn the tide of that war eventually leading to the Allied victory in Europe. It also led directly to the attack on [[Pearl Harbor]] and war with all the nations already allied against Germany; this ended badly for Japan. ===China=== {{main|World War II in China}} Japan acquired [[Taiwan]] and some territory in [[Manchuria]] after winning the First Sino-Japanese War in 1895. They expanded their influence there when they defeated the Russians in 1905; in particular they took over administration of the profitable Russian-built railway. After [[World War I]] they got the former [[Chinese_provinces_and_regions#Treaty_ports_and_concessions|German concessions]] in [[Shandong]]. Then in 1931 they staged the [[Shenyang|Mukden]] Incident; Japanese troops bombed part of the railway, the attack was blamed on Chinese forces, and that gave Japan a pretext to occupy Manchuria, setting up a puppet state called Manchukuo. Japan invaded central [[China]] in 1937 and soon managed to occupy much of eastern China, including the then-capital [[Nanjing]]. This led to eight years of continuous fighting, until the Japanese surrender in 1945; see [[World War II in China]]. Roughly half of the total Japanese ground forces were tied down in China throughout the war, including troops they had planned to use elsewhere. All the Allied land victories in the Pacific War were partly due to Chinese tenacity. American, British and Dutch sanctions were imposed on Japan after the invasion of China; those, in particular restrictions on oil imports, were the main reason Japan gave for going to war with those nations. The Western powers also sent supplies to China via the [[Burma Road]]. The Soviet Union and America also sent volunteer air force units to support China, with the American one based in [[Yunnan]] known as the "Flying Tigers". The Chinese resistance against Japanese rule was also financially supported by many overseas Chinese. === Japan joins the world war === Meanwhile, [[World War II in Europe]] began with the German invasion of Poland in September 1939, and became more complex when Germany invaded the Soviet Union in June 1941. [[File:USS West Virginia2.jpg|thumb|USS West Virginia on fire in Pearl Harbor during the Japanese attack]] {{quote|Yesterday, December 7th, 1941 — a date which will live in infamy — the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.|author=US President Franklin D. Roosevelt, December 8, 1941}} The conflict became global in December 1941, when [[Japan]] attacked [[Pearl Harbor]], other US bases in the Pacific, the [[Philippines]], and British possessions such as [[Hong Kong]], [[Myanmar|Burma]] and [[Malaya]]. The [[United States]] and the entire British Empire immediately declared war on Japan, and Germany declared war on the US. The [[Soviet Union]] did not declare war on Japan until after the end of the war in Europe, in May 1945. After the Japanese surrender, it reclaimed the territories that the Russian Empire had lost to Japan in the 1904-05 Russo-Japanese War, and also took the [[Kuril Islands]], which remain disputed between Russia and Japan to this day. === Japanese conquests === Early in the war, Japan invaded and occupied much of [[Southeast Asia]] and parts of [[Oceania]]; they even managed to bomb the city of [[Darwin]] in [[Australia]]. By the middle of 1943, virtually all of Southeast Asia had been conquered by Japan, with the colonial powers of the [[United Kingdom]], [[France]], the [[Netherlands]], [[Portugal]] and the United States all having suffered humiliating defeats at the hands of the Japanese. [[File:Civilian War Memorial, Singapore - 20140802.jpg|thumb|The Civilian War Memorial in Singapore. Japanese occupying forces massacred over ten thousand civilians, mostly ethnic Chinese.]] The Japanese took effective control of some areas without fighting. The Vichy government in France, essentially a German puppet regime, ordered French administrators in French Indochina (now [[Vietnam]], [[Laos]] and [[Cambodia]]) to collaborate with Japan, and most did. [[Thailand]], the only country in Southeast Asia not colonized by Western powers, remained nominally independent but was forced to dance to the Japanese tune. Japan was able to establish military bases in these countries and to freely move troops and supplies through them. Japanese propaganda claimed they were driving out Western imperialists, leading an "Asia for Asians" movement, and this got them some support; countries such as [[India]] had both pro-Japanese and pro-Allied movements. Subhas Chandra Bose, the leader of the pro-Japanese Indian National Army (INA), is widely regarded as a national hero in India. In many areas, this was also divided along ethnic lines; in Malaya, at least initially, the Japanese were welcomed by many ethnic Malays and Indians, but opposed by most ethnic Chinese. In China both the Kuomintang and the Communists opposed Japan, but they were sometimes more interested in fighting each other. Everywhere, the local political movements were jockeying for control and trying to use the war to gain independence and/or domestic political influence for the time after the war. Japanese rule in the occupied territories was brutal, and by the end of the war, the Japanese had lost the support of much of the local population who initially supported them (e.g. Burmese independence hero Aung San). In the occupied areas, Japanese troops engaged in mass rapes, massacres and pillaging, with the [[Nanjing#Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall|Nanjing Massacre]] of 1937-38 being the most notorious. Many women from China, Korea and other occupied areas were forced to serve as "comfort women", sex slaves in Japanese military brothels. The Japanese also performed inhumane experiments on captive locals from the occupied territories, the most famous being Unit 731 in Manchuria (listed below), though other similar units existed throughout the occupied territories. They also treated prisoners of war very badly; perhaps the most famous incidents were the "[[Bataan]] death march" and the use of POWs as slave labour for the [[Kanchanaburi|Bridge on the River Kwai]], but there were many others. As retribution for their role in resisting Japanese rule in China, the ethnic Chinese &mdash; both in China and in Southeast Asia &mdash; were singled out for the harshest treatment; in all the occupied territories, they were rounded up for "screening" by the Japanese, and the unfortunate ones who were identified (often arbitrarily) as anti-Japanese were brought to remote locations and shot. === The tide turns === The Japanese suffered two important naval defeats at the hands of the Americans in mid-1942, the Battle of the Coral Sea (northeast of Australia) in May and the Battle of [[Midway Islands|Midway]] (northwest of Hawaii) in June. [[File:Wounded Australian soldier led by a Papuan orderly at Buna.jpg|thumb|A Papuan leading a wounded Australian soldier during the Kokoda campaign]] The Coral Sea was tactically close to a draw &mdash; each side lost one carrier and many aircraft &mdash; but can be counted as a US strategic victory, since the planned Japanese landings to take [[Port Moresby]] in New Guinea were prevented. Midway was a clear US victory, with many Japanese carriers sunk. Both battles killed a number of elite Japanese naval aviators, a catastrophe for Japanese forces. These were the first naval battles in history fought mainly by aircraft carriers which never came within sight of each other. The Americans were intercepting Japanese communication, and had broken many Japanese codes, which was an advantage in both battles. At Midway they surprised the Japanese by destroying some carriers when the planes were away on a bombing raid. Two land campaigns, both starting in mid-1942 and lasting until early 1943, also went badly for Japan. In what is now [[Papua New Guinea]], the ANZACs (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps) gave them their first defeat on land at [[Milne Bay]] then, in a hard-fought campaign, drove them back along the [[Kokoda Track]]. Meanwhile the Americans took the island of [[Guadalcanal]] after a prolonged and intense fight, allowing them to defend their supply and communication lines to Australia and New Zealand, and to create a forward base for island-hopping toward Japan. These Allied victories marked the turning point in the Pacific War. After that the ANZACs continued the New Guinea campaign and invaded the [[Solomon Islands]], while the British re-took Burma with the help of the Chinese, and reopened the [[Burma Road]] to supply Chinese forces. The Japanese had spread their forces too thinly in China, and the Chinese were able to counterattack and reclaim some of the occupied territories. The Americans re-took the Philippines and captured a series of islands across the Pacific, including some like [[Guam]] and [[Wake Island]] that Japan had taken from them in the first months of the war. At sea, Japan was defeated repeatedly by the Americans, with some Commonwealth help. The Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944 was the largest naval battle of the war; it took place during the invasion of the [[Philippines]], and was a major Allied victory. === End of the war === When the Americans took the [[Mariana Islands]] (including [[Saipan]] and [[Guam]]) in 1944, the ground fighting was intense with heavy casualties on both sides. However the "Great Marianas Turkey Shoot" saw over 550 Japanese aircraft destroyed, while America only lost about 120 aircraft. This was a disaster for the Japanese, who were already running short of both planes and pilots. Air bases in the Marianas allowed the US to directly attack Japan with its long-range B-29 bombers; there were devastating fire bombing raids on many Japanese cities, including a huge one against [[Tokyo]]. The atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki by B-29s from [[Tinian]]. In early 1945 the US won fierce battles in [[Okinawa]] and [[Ogasawara Islands|Iwo Jima]] and occupied those islands, putting them in position to attack the Japanese home islands with shorter-range aircraft or to invade. Having by then won the naval part of the war, they also bombarded Japanese cities with their ships. Japan tried desperation tactics such as sending ''kamikaze'' (translates as "godly wind", named after typhoons that sank the invading [[Mongol Empire|Mongol]] fleet in the 13th century) pilots on suicide missions to crash planes full of explosives into American ships, but even that did not make a large difference. The invasion never took place. The Americans dropped the first (and to date only) atomic bombs to be used in actual combat on [[Hiroshima]] on 6 August 1945, followed by [[Nagasaki]] on 9 August 1945; on the same day the Soviet Union invaded Manchuria. Japan surrendered unconditionally to the Allies on 15 August 1945, bringing World War II to an end. ===Aftermath=== Following the surrender, Japan was occupied by the Americans and forced to give up all its colonies. While the Emperor remained on his throne, many political and military leaders were indicted in the ''International Military Tribunal for the Far East'', and many were sentenced to death. [[File:Surrender of Japan - USS Missouri (restored).jpg|thumb|Japanese officials on board the USS Missouri during the surrender ceremonies on 2 September 1945]] The Americans also imposed a new pacifist constitution on Japan, forbidding it from establishing a military, and turning it into a democratic constitutional monarchy. However, when the [[Cold War]] began, the American occupiers established the National Police Reserve, a paramilitary organization that would later develop into the Japan Self-Defense Forces, the ''de facto'' military of the country. Taiwan and Manchuria were returned to China, though the Chinese Civil War would resume following the Japanese surrender, eventually resulting in victory for the Communists in the mainland, and the Nationalists being forced to retreat to Taiwan, which continues to be governed separately to this day. Korea regained its independence, but would be split into communist [[North Korea]] and capitalist [[South Korea]], leading up to the [[Korean War]]. The Americans would eventually leave mainland Japan in 1952, though the American military continues to maintain several bases in different parts of the country. Okinawa was only returned to Japan in 1972, though the United States continues to maintain a strong military presence there. The Western colonial powers also got their colonies back, but the war had galvanised many nationalist movements, which were to come of age in the years to come and eventually lead to the independence of the colonies. The first was the [[Philippines]], where American rule ended in 1946; the largest was the end of the [[British Raj]] in 1947, which became the modern countries of [[India]], [[Pakistan]] and later [[Bangladesh]]. See also [[Indian independence movement]]. The [[Indochina Wars]] were a brutal example of lingering national and ideological conflict in Asia. [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] would eventually be given back to China in the 1990s but part of the agreement between China and the former colonial powers stipulates a "one country two systems" arrangement that makes both act like independent countries in some regards. A few Japanese soldiers, isolated in various jungles, did not know the war had ended and fought on. The last two surrendered in 1974, one on the Philippine island of [[Lubang]] and the other on Indonesia's [[Morotai Island]]. Two Japanese soldiers would join communist guerrillas in Malaya and Thailand after the end of the war, and only surrendered in 1989 after the end of the communist insurgency. ==Sites== Many places that were sites of battles, atrocities or other wartime activities can be visited. There are also many museums with exhibits wholly or partly related to this war. {{Mapframe|25|-10|zoom=1|layer=W|height=300|width=500}} ===Australia=== {{seealso|Military museums and sites in Australia}} Australia and New Zealand declared war on Germany in 1939 shortly after the UK did, and fought for the Allies in Europe and [[World War II in Africa|North Africa]]. As the Japanese attacked American and British territory in the Pacific, most of these troops were relocated to the Pacific theatre. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Adelaide River War Cemetery | alt= | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2023510/ADELAIDE%20RIVER%20WAR%20CEMETERY | email= | address=| lat=-13.23116 | long=131.11444 | directions=[[Adelaide River]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q38160721 | lastedit=2017-08-09 | content=The main cemetery for military personnel and civilians killed in northern Australia during the Second World War, including as a result of the dozens of Japanese air raids on Darwin and nearby airfields as well as the little known bombings in Coomalie Creek, Adelaide River and Litchfield National Park. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Australian War Memorial | alt= | url=https://www.awm.gov.au/ | email= | address=[[Canberra/North Canberra|North Canberra]] | lat=-35.280500 | long=149.149100 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Australian War Memorial | wikidata=Q782783 | content=Located in [[Canberra]], the memorial also includes a military museum dedicated to the memory of Australian soldiers who fought in various wars including both world wars. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Darwin Military Museum | alt= | url=http://www.darwinmilitarymuseum.com.au | email= | address= | lat=-12.407517 | long=130.819769 | directions=[[Darwin]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Darwin Military Museum | wikidata=Q5226003 | content=Darwin was an important staging point for Australian and American forces during the war, and would be the only Australian city that was subject to Japanese bombing raids. The bombings of Darwin are the only post-colonial acts of war against Australia. The museum houses exhibits about the bombing of Darwin. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=MacArthur Museum | alt= | url=http://www.mmb.org.au/ | email= | address= | lat=-27.46855 | long=153.02742 | directions=[[Brisbane]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This museum covers the career of American General Douglas MacArthur, who commanded the Allied forces in the South West Pacific from Brisbane between 1942 and 1944 from what are now the Museum's premises, as well as Brisbane's experiences in World War II.}} * {{listing | name=[[Broome]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q606294 | lastedit=2022-02-12 | content=Broome was attacked by the Japanese on 3 March 1942 by fighter planes. Although Broome was no more than an insignificant tiny pearling port, it was a major stopover point for refuelling when going from modern day Indonesia to the other cities of Australia. Learn more about the attack at the Broome Historical Museum. }} * {{listing | name=Wagga Wagga War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/4003836/wagga-wagga-war-cemetery/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Wagga Wagga]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7959532 | lastedit=2022-08-30 | content=Perhaps Australia's most famous war cemetery, home to the graves of several Australian soldiers who died fighting in World War II. }} ===Canada=== Canadian troops were mostly active in the European theatre, though they also fought in the Battle of Hong Kong as part of the British forces. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Canadian War Museum | alt= | url=https://www.warmuseum.ca/ | email= | address=[[Ottawa]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Canadian War Museum | wikidata=Q1032442 | lastedit=2021-08-23 | content=Canada's main military history museum, with displays commemorating the efforts of Canadian troops in various wars and peacekeeping missions, including both world wars. }} ===China=== [[File:AntijapaneseWarMemorialMuseum.jpg|thumb|Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression]] For sites in Mainland China, see '''[[World War II in China]].''' For historical reasons, sites in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan are listed separately on this page. ''This does not represent an endorsement of any political position.'' ===Hong Kong=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sai Wan War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2000320/SAI%20WAN%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Hong Kong/Eastern District|Chai Wan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Labuan War Cemetery | wikidata=Q2148037 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Canadian, Indian and local Chinese soldiers who died in the Battle of Hong Kong. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sha Tau Kok Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall | alt=沙頭角抗戰紀念館 | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.53656 | long=114.20888 | directions=[[Hong Kong/New Territories|Sha Tau Kok]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-06 | content=Opened in September 2022, this is the first comprehensive museum about the Second World War in Hong Kong. The museum is at the former home of the Luo Family, which was the first base of operations for Communist-led guerrilla fighters from the Mainland who came across the border to help resist the Japanese. }} ===India=== India was for the most part spared the horrors of World War II, though Indian troops were used by the British military for their war efforts elsewhere, and eastern India was used as a staging point for Allied troops fighting in Burma. The Japanese had attempted to invade India through [[Imphal]] and [[Kohima]] in 1944 from then Japanese-occupied Burma, with help from the Indian National Army (INA), a pro-Japanese Indian independence movement. However, the combined British and Indian forces were successful in repelling the Japanese attacks, forcing the Japanese into a retreat by July 1944. World War II would also be a major cause of the [[Bengal]] Famine in 1943, as the British diverted nearly all the food to support their war effort in Europe and left next to nothing for the Bengalis. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Imphal War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2064600/IMPHAL%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Imphal]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Imphal War Cemetery | wikidata=Q19840225 | content=Commonwealth war cemetery with the graves of British and Indian soldiers who died in the Battle of Imphal. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kohima War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2058100/kohima-war-cemetery/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Kohima]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kohima War Cemetery | wikidata=Q19841008 | content=Commonwealth war cemetery with the graves of British and Indian soldiers who died in the Battle of Kohima. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Chinese Cemetery, Ramgarh | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=23.609910930907077 | long=85.4879024693129 | directions=[[Jharkhand]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | content=Chinese war cemetery built by the Nationalists, with the graves of hundreds of Chinese soldiers who died fighting in the Burma Campaign, most of them unidentified. }} ===Japan=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Okinawa Peace Park and Himeyuri Monument | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=26.09661 | long=127.725645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-08-30 | content=The site of one of the most brutal and bloody battles of the war, [[Okinawa]] island has many war remnants and memorials. Outside of Japan, Okinawa is often viewed as the first battle on Japanese soil. However, like the other Pacific Islands, Okinawa was also colonized territory so the local population was not fully trusted by the Japanese and often treated as expendable. With the Americans being obvious enemies and the Japanese not being complete allies, the question on many Okinawans' minds was not "How am I going to survive?" but "How do I want to die?". The museums here show the war from a uniquely Okinawan perspective, including life for citizens, students and military. It also depicts well how they were mistreated by both the Japanese and the Americans during and after the war. The Peace Park and the Himeyuri Monument in [[Itoman]] are the best places to learn about the battle, but remnants and reminders of the war can be found throughout the island. }} [[File:Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima, larger - edit1.jpg|thumb|American soldiers raising the flag on Iwo Jima]] *{{listing | type=listing | name=[[Ogasawara Islands|Iwo Jima]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.783333 | long=141.316667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Iwo Jima | wikidata=Q201633 | content=Another group of islands close to Japan, scene of some extremely fierce fighting. An image of victorious US Marines raising the Stars and Stripes there is quite famous. [http://www.miltours.com/ US Military Tours] has exclusive rights to the island, and only U.S. citizens are eligible to visit. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots | alt= | url=http://www.chiran-tokkou.jp/english/ | email= | address= | lat=31.363333 | long=130.434444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots | wikidata=Q4458048 | lastedit=2016-01-10 | content=As the war approached the home islands, the desperate Japanese began sending out young men to fly aircraft packed with explosives into American ships. The museum is located in [[Chiran]] over the former spot where the ''tokko'' pilots (known abroad as kamikaze pilots) were trained and flew from. The museum contains information about the pilots, artifacts and letters from them, and recovered kamikaze planes. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Hiroshima Peace Park and Memorial Museum | alt= | url=http://www.pcf.city.hiroshima.jp/virtual/VirtualMuseum_e/tour_e/tour_fra_e.html | email= | address= | lat=34.392728 | long=132.452374 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park | wikidata=Q1207208 | lastedit=2015-08-30 | content=[[Hiroshima]] was the first place in the world to be attacked with an atomic bomb. The museum shows how devastating the bomb was to the city and the effects it had on the people from the immediate aftermath to the present day. }} * {{listing | name=Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Memorial Hall | alt= | url=http://www1.city.nagasaki.nagasaki.jp/na-bomb/museum/museume01.html {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat=32.772778 | long=129.865 | directions=[[Nagasaki]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum | wikidata=Q1099077 | lastedit=2015-08-30 | content=Museums that are on the site where the atomic bomb was dropped on August 9, 1945. The Nagasaki bombing led to Japanese surrender and is also noted as the last place to have an atomic bomb dropped on it. }} * {{listing | name=Oka Masaharu Memorial Nagasaki Peace Museum | alt=岡まさはる記念長崎平和資料館 | url=https://www.okakinen.jp/ | email= | address= | lat=32.75523 | long=129.87216 | directions=[[Nagasaki]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=One of the very few places in Japan where the war crimes of the Japanese army during the Second World War are documented. Another focus of the exhibition lies on the foreign victims of the atomic bomb and their struggle for recognition and compensation. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Peace Osaka | alt=大阪国際平和センター | url=http://peace-osaka.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat=34.681667 | long=135.53 | directions=[[Osaka/Osaka_castle|Osaka Castle area, Osaka]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Osaka International Peace Center | image=Peace-osaka.jpg | wikidata=Q7105564 | content=A museum dedicated to the promotion of peace through displays of war. Because it is an Osaka museum, it largely focuses on the effects of American aerial bombings on Osaka between December 1944 and August 1945. In the past, the museum also had exhibitions depicting the atrocities committed by Japan against China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Sadly, however, those exhibitions were permanently removed in 2015 in response to pressure from conservative political groups. }} * {{listing | name=Yasukuni Shrine | alt=靖國神社 Yasukuni-jinja | url=http://www.yasukuni.or.jp/english/ | email= | address= | lat=35.694167 | long=139.743056 | directions=[[Tokyo/Chiyoda|Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Yasukuni Shrine | image=Yasukuni Jinja 7 032.jpg | wikidata=Q242803 | content=A controversial shrine to Japan's war dead, housing the souls of some 2.5 million people killed in Japan's wars &mdash; including numerous Taiwanese and Koreans, and controversially, convicted war criminals executed by the Allies. Often visited by Japanese and Taiwanese politicians, drawing sharp criticisms from neighbours China and South Korea in the process. If you choose to visit, consider keeping it a secret from your Chinese or Korean friends. Also on the grounds of the shrine is the '''Yūshūkan War Memorial Museum''', which displays much World War II paraphernalia and presents a rather one-sided (and allegedly revisionist) account of World War II. }} ===Mongolia=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Khalkhin Gol]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.730278 | long=118.59 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Battles of Khalkhin Gol | wikidata=Q188925 | content=Site of a battle in 1939 in which the Soviets demolished a large Japanese force. This turned Japanese thinking away from expansion into [[Mongolia]] and [[Siberia]]; instead they adopted a "strike south" strategy which led directly to Pearl Harbor and their attacks in [[Southeast Asia]]. }} ===Southeast Asia=== ====Brunei==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Brunei-Australia Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=[[Bandar Seri Begawan]] | lat=5.037835056706218 | long=115.07569591085982 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-07-23 | content=Memorial on Muara Beach commemorating the landing site of the Australian soldiers who fought in the Battle of North Borneo to liberate Brunei from Japanese occupation. }} ==== Indonesia ==== * {{listing | name=Ambon War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2015000/ambon-war-cemetery/ | email= | address= | lat=-3.674812 | long=128.191813 | directions=[[Ambon]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Ambon.jpg | lastedit=2022-07-04 | content= The cemetery contains Australian soldiers who died during the Japanese invasion of Ambon and Timor in World War II }} ==== Malaysia ==== * {{listing | name=Bank Kerapu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.13191 | long=102.23549 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q12474498 | lastedit=2019-04-04 | content=There is a small war memorial and museum in the former Bank Kerapu building in [[Kota Bharu]], [[Malaysia]], which served as a secret police station during the Japanese occupation; it might not merit a special trip but is worth visiting if you are in Kota Bharu. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Labuan War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/17000/LABUAN%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Labuan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Labuan War Cemetery | wikidata=Q6467670 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian and Indian soldiers who died in the Borneo campaign. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Penang War Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=5.28147 | long=100.28872 | directions=[[Bayan Lepas]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Located at southeastern tip of Penang, it's a large abandoned military fortress built in the 1930s by the British to protect the southern approaches to the island. The British Royal Engineers and a work force of local labourers blasted and dug into the hill to create a fort with underground military tunnels, an intelligence and logistic centre, halls, offices, ventilation shafts, artillery firing bays, sleeping quarters, cook houses as well as an infirmary. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sandakan Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=5.88854 | long=118.047183 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sandakan Memorial Park | wikidata=Q2799368 | content=This memorial in the Malaysian city of [[Sandakan]] was built at the site of a former Japanese POW prison camp with funding from the Australian government to commemorate the Allied POWs who lost their lives during the Sandakan Death Marches. Only 6 people out of several thousand survived the march, and only because those 6 managed to escape. Incidentally, all 6 survivors were Australian. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Taiping War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/94500/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Taiping]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Taiping War Cemetery | wikidata=Q7676344 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian, Indian and Malayan soldiers who died in the Malaya Campaign. }} ====Myanmar==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Burma Road]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=23.5 | long=98.9 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Burma Road | wikidata=Q478684 | content=This road ran from Western China into Burma (now [[Myanmar]]) and connected to [[Assam]] in Eastern India as well. It was built by the Chinese in the late 1930s, upgraded by the Americans later, and used throughout the war. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Taukkyan War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/94500/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Taukkyan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Taukkyan War Cemetery | wikidata=Q7688705 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Indian and African soldiers who died in the Burma Campaign. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2007400/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Thanbyuzayat]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery | wikidata=Q19840907 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian, Indian, New Zealander, Canadian and Dutch POWs who died while building the Death Railway in Burma. }} ====Philippines==== [[File:US_Navy_041020-N-0493B-003_Backed_by_a_monument_marking_the_location_of_Gen._Douglas_MacArthur's_return_to_the_Philippines_60_years_ago,_a_Philippine_Marine_Corps_honor_guard_stands_at_attention_during_the_playing_of_Taps.jpg|thumb|MacArthur's landing site]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Corregidor Island]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Corregidor | wikidata=Q928075 | content=Established as an American fort to defend Manila from naval attacks, it fell to the Japanese in 1942, and was liberated in 1945. This is where General MacArthur left and uttered his most famous line "I shall return", a promise he fulfilled in 1944. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Capas]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Capas | wikidata=Q56427 | content=A largely rural municipality housing Camp O'Donnell, an American military camp turned into a POW camp where the infamous Bataan Death March in 1942 ended. Two memorial shrines dedicated to the American and Filipino prisoners of war who suffered and died under the hands of the Japanese are erected here, and two abandoned railroad stations where the prisoners were unloaded have been turned into museums and memorials. The exact number of prisoners on the march is unknown; estimates range from 6,000 to 18,000. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Coron]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12 | long=120.2 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Coron, Palawan | wikidata=Q111414 | content=This town in [[Palawan]] Province has excellent wreck diving; the US Navy sank about a dozen Japanese ships in shallow water nearby in 1944. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.172222 | long=125.012222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park | wikidata=Q18157528 | content=This is where General McArthur landed on his return to the country in 1944; it is in [[Palo]] municipality on [[Leyte Island]], near [[Tacloban]]. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Camp Pangatian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Raid at Cabanatuan | wikidata=Q705083 | content=A former American military camp turned into a POW camp by the Japanese, it is the site of the raid at Cabanatuan, a major engagement of the liberation of the Philippines in 1945. The camp, now a shrine, is northeast of [[Cabanatuan]] city (then a rural area) in [[Nueva Ecija]] province. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Manila American Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.abmc.gov/Manila | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Manila]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Manila American Cemetery | wikidata=Q12061468 | content=Cemetery where numerous American and Filipino soldiers who were killed during World War II were buried }} ==== Singapore ==== As the headquarters of the British forces in Malaya, there are numerous World War II sites scattered throughout Singapore, including several abandoned pillboxes and coastal gun batteries, as well as numerous beaches where the ethnic Chinese were brought to be shot by the Japanese in the Sook Ching Massacre. We cover a selection of some of the more important sites here. * {{listing | name=Alexandra Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.ah.com.sg/ | email= | address= | lat=1.286444 | long=103.801222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A former British military hospital, and the site of the Alexandra Hospital Massacre on 14-15 February 1942, in which Japanese soldiers massacred the staff and patients despite them having already surrendered. Today, it remains in use as a public hospital, and the original colonial-era hospital building has been preserved and remains in active use. There is also a plaque on the hospital grounds commemorating the victims of the massacre. }} * {{listing | name=The Battlebox | alt= | url=http://www.battlebox.com.sg/ | email= | address= | lat=1.29611 | long=103.846216 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A former British military bunker and command centre which served as the headquarters for the British forces in Malaya during the Malayan Campaign. It was here that Lieutenant-General Arthur E. Percival met with his senior officers and made the decision to surrender to the Japanese. It has been converted to a museum dedicated to the Malayan Campaign, with a re-enactment of how it functioned during the war. }} [[File:Changi Museum, Singapore - www.joyofmuseums.com - external.jpg|thumb|The gates at the Changi Museum]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=Changi Museum | alt= | url=http://www.changimuseum.sg/ | email= | address= | lat=1.3622 | long=103.974 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Changi Museum | wikidata=Q5072000 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=A former POW camp-turned-museum has information about the Japanese occupation of [[Singapore]] and what life was like in the POW camp. It focuses on the general history and conditions as well as containing personal accounts and artifacts donated by former prisoners. It has a replica of the '''Changi Chapel''' that was built by Australian POWs in captivity; the original was dismantled and moved to [[Canberra]] after the war, where it now stands in the Royal Military College, Duntroon. You can also see replicas of the '''Changi murals''', Christian murals that were painted by British POW Stanley Warren while in capitvity; the original murals are located in a military airbase and off limits to the general public. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Civilian War Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q5124736 | lastedit=2020-09-23 | content=Monument commemorating the local civilians who lost their lives during the Japanese occupation. The remains of many unidentified victims are buried under the memorial. }} * {{listing | name=Ford Motor Factory | alt= | url=http://www.nas.gov.sg/formerfordfactory | email= | address= | lat=1.352558 | long=103.769292 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A former factory of American automobile manufacturer Ford, and the first motor vehicle factory to be opened in Southeast Asia. This is also the site where the British lieutenant-general Arthur E. Percival surrendered unconditionally to Japanese general Tomoyuki Yamashita on 15 February 1942, thus ending the Malayan Campaign. It was also used by the Japanese to produce military vehicles during the occupation. It has now been converted to a museum dedicated to life in Singapore during the Japanese occupation. The boardroom in which the surrender took place has also been reconstructed for viewing. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Fort Siloso | alt= | url=https://www.sentosa.com.sg/en/things-to-do/attractions/fort-siloso/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q4419293 | lastedit=2020-09-22 | content=One of four British forts on what was then the island of Pulau Blakang Mati, today known as Sentosa. It is the only one of the four to have been restored as a tourist attraction, and contains the remnants of some British artillery guns, as well as interactive displays and a re-enactment of the unconditional surrender of the British forces to the Japanese. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kranji War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2004200/KRANJI%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kranji War Cemetery | wikidata=Q6436095 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian, Indian and Malayan soldiers who died in the Malayan Campaign. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Labrador Nature Reserve | alt= | url=https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/labrador-nature-reserve | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q14874451 | lastedit=2020-09-22 | content=The site of numerous British artillery gun emplacements during World War II. Today, you can see the remains of those gun emplacements, numerous pillboxes, and a network of underground tunnels that were used to store ammunition and move them to the gun emplacements. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Lim Bo Seng Memorial | alt= | url=https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/history/memorials/lim-bo-seng-memorial/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q54321624 | lastedit=2021-07-23 | content=Memorial dedicated to local war hero Lim Bo Seng, who participated in covert operations against the Japanese as part of Force 136, a branch of the British World War II intelligence agency. After being captured by the Japanese, he refused to divulge any information about his comrades despite being tortured, and eventually died of dysentery in prison in June 1944 at the age of 35. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Reflections at Bukit Chandu | alt= | url=https://www.nhb.gov.sg/what-we-do/our-work/preserve-our-stories-treasures-and-places/museums-and-institutions/reflections-at-bukit-chandu | email= | address= | lat=1.27945 | long=103.79407 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Reflections at Bukit Chandu | wikidata=Q7307287 | content=An interpretive centre of the Battle of Pasir Panjang, one of the fiercest battles in the Malayan Campaign that pitted the Malay Regiment (today the Royal Malay Regiment, the most decorated regiment in the Malaysian Army) against the Japanese. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sook Ching Inspection Centre | alt= | url=https://www.roots.gov.sg/places/places-landing/Places/historic-sites/sook-ching-inspection-centre | email= | address= | lat=1.283834 | long=103.846073 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sook Ching | content=The site where the occupying Japanese conducted their "screening" of the ethnic Chinese in Malaya after rounding them up. The unlucky ones who were identified as anti-Japanese were brought to the beaches and shot. Today, a plaque stands on the site to commemorate the victims of the massacre. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Syonan Jinja | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.344769 | long=103.822533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Syonan Jinja | content=A Shinto shrine built by the occupying Japanese in Singapore (which they re-named Syonan-to) in 1942, located at MacRitchie Reservoir, and destroyed after the Japanese surrender on 15th August 1945. The ruins of the shrine still exist, but are now in the middle of the jungle with no footpaths leading there, making it very hard to find. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Syonan Chureito | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.350892 | long=103.766769 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bukit Batok Memorial | content=A memorial built by Australian POWs to honour the Japanese war dead during World War II, with a smaller memorial behind that to commemorate the Allied war dead. Both memorials were torn down following the Japanese surrender, and today, only the road and stairs leading up to the memorial, as well as two pedestals at the bottom of the stairs, survive. A television transmission tower now occupies the former memorial site. }} ====Thailand==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Death Railway | alt=ทางรถไฟสายมรณะ | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-02-16 | content=The strategic railway tracks began from Nong Pla Duk Station in Amphoe Ban Pong, Ratchaburi, and ran via Kanchanaburi across the Khwae Yai River, westbound to the Three Pagodas Pass, to end at Thanbuyuzayat in Burma. Total length in Thai territory was 300&nbsp;km. The railway took only one year to complete, from October 1942–October 1943. After the war, some lengths of track were demolished and some submerged under the lake of Khao Laem Dam. }} ** {{listing | type=listing | name=Bridge over the River Kwai | alt=Saphan Mae Nam Kwae | url= | email= | address= | lat=14.04090 | long=99.50370 | directions=[[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | fax= | hours= |checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=This iron bridge across the Kwai Yai River is the main attraction for many visitors. Immortalized in the famous movie and novel, it was a part of the infamous '''Death Railway''' to [[Myanmar|Burma]], constructed by POWs working for the Japanese in hellish conditions during WWII. Some 16,000 POWs and 90,000 Asian workers (most of them enslaved) died during railway construction. The present iron bridge is the second wartime incarnation (a part of the original can be found in the War Museum), but two central box spans were rebuilt after the war to replace three sections destroyed by Allied bombing. }} ** {{listing | type=listing | name=Hellfire Pass | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=80 km northwest of [[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-02-16 | content=Only relocated in the 1980s, '''Konyu Cutting''' (known as '''Hellfire Pass''' by POWs and Asian labourers who cut and blasted through rock by hand to clear this pass for the Death Railway) has been reclaimed from the jungle as a profound war memorial funded by the Australian government. Excellent museum and self-guided walking tour facilities are available. The descent through the jungle down to the pass (listening to oral histories through audio headsets) is a moving experience. Annual Anzac Day Dawn Service are held here. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kanchanaburi War Cemetery | alt=สุสานทหารสัมพันธมิตรดอนรัก | url=http://www.cwgc.org/ | email= | address= | lat=14.03122 | long=99.52567 | directions=[[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-16 | content=This is the final resting place of 6,982 POWs who gave their lives for the construction of the Death Railway to Burma. All POWs at this site are from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Australia. After WWII, the Allies moved all the buried POWs along the railway line to two war cemeteries in Kanchanaburi so as to be easier to maintain. The graves are set in straight lines with neatly mown lawns, and some have moving personal inscriptions. Exceptionally well maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it is a sombre yet peaceful reminder of what happened. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Thailand-Burma Railway Centre | url=http://www.tbrconline.com/ | email= | address= | lat=14.03232 | long=99.52478 | directions=[[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Generally considered to be the best source of information regarding World War II in Thailand, railway construction and route, and the conditions endured by POWs and Asian labourers. Very moving exhibits, including video and interactive displays. }} ===Pacific Ocean=== [[Image:Aerial photograph of Wake Island on 25 May 1941.jpg|thumb|The Wake Island atoll from the northeast, in 1941]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Wake Island]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.3 | long=166.633333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Wake Island | wikidata=Q43296 | content=This US-controlled island was taken by Japan shortly after Pearl Harbor and held by them throughout the war. There are ruins of Japanese fortifications, a monument for the American defenders who put up a stiff fight despite being badly outnumbered and outgunned, and a monument for a group of 98 POWs executed by the Japanese. Today the island is a US military base, off limits for most visitors except through the occasional guided tour. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Midway Islands]] | alt= | url=https://www.fws.gov/refuge/midway_atoll/ | email= | address= | lat=28.20935 | long=-177.37813 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Midway Atoll | wikidata=Q47863 | content=The site of the Battle of Midway, one of the major turning points in the Pacific War. The atoll is today home to memorials commemorating the battle. It is only populated by U.S. government personnel, and access is highly restricted; visits by the general public are generally only possible through a guided tour. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Henderson Airfield | alt={{IATA|HIR}} | url= | email= | address= | lat=-9.428 | long=160.054789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Honiara International Airport | wikidata=Q859876 | lastedit=2015-12-14 | content=The Japanese began constructing an airfield in May 1942 in [[Honiara]] on Guadalcanal. Knowing that if they completed it, they'd be able to both isolate Australia from its allies and launch potentially devastating attacks, America quickly moved to take control of the airfield. It took six months to secure the airfield, after which the Americans finished construction on it and used it to launch attacks on other islands.</br>Henderson Airfield was later expanded to become the international airport of the [[Solomon Islands]], so of course it can be visited. Other sites around the airport include Bloody Ridge (where America defended against the Japanese), the Gifu (named after the [[Gifu|city by the same name]], it was a Japanese post attacked by the US), Mount Austin (used by the Japanese to get a full view of the airfield in their plan to retake it), as well as memorials for both the Americans and Japanese that fought here. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Betio Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.356266 | long=172.931607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Betio | wikidata=Q831455 | lastedit=2015-12-14 | content=Within a few days of Pearl Harbor, the Japanese took the [[Gilbert Islands]], then a British colony, now part of the independent nation [[Kiribati]]. America's first attack on Japanese forces occurred in [[Butaritari]], in the Gilberts, shortly after that.</br>In late 1943, the Allies came to oust Japan from the islands, which by then had been heavily fortified. Betio Island in [[Tarawa]] was the site of the '''Battle of Tarawa''', considered to be one of the bloodiest battles of the war. While war relics can be found on multiple islands throughout Kiribati, Betio Island is where the main battle took place and also where the most remains. Visitors can see tanks, bunkers, shipwrecks, guns, and memorials built by the Japanese, Americans, and Australians and New Zealanders. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Kokoda Track]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-8.898155 | long=147.739798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kokoda Track | wikidata=Q1424748 | lastedit=2016-01-25 | content=An important battle line in [[Papua New Guinea]], between [[Australia]] and [[Japan]], it is now a trekking destination, especially for Australians. }} [[File:Nauru-WWIIrelic.jpg|thumb|Remains of a Japanese gun on Nauru's Command Ridge]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=Command Ridge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-0.530547 | long=166.916702 | directions=[[Nauru]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Command Ridge | wikidata=Q2667931 | lastedit=2017-03-25 | content=During World War II, Nauru was occupied by the Japanese from August 1942 until their surrender at the tail end of the war in the wake of three years of near-continuous Allied air raids. Today, rusting relics from this era are scattered throughout the island — disused Japanese pillboxes line the shore every couple of kilometres, and old cannons can be seen along roadsides barely hidden by forest or even in plain sight between homes.</br>However, for those who want a firsthand look at Nauru's WWII history, Command Ridge (Nauruan: ''Janor'') is the place to go. As the island's highest point, rising to an elevation of 63 m above sea level, it was a natural lookout point for the occupiers. Today you'll find a bevy of old artillery emplacements (including a pair of six-barrel antiaircraft guns still pointed skyward), the ruins of a prison complex used to hold interned Nauruan natives (who were treated brutally by the Japanese) as well as five members of the Australian military captured during the invasion, and — most impressive of all — the former communications center, now open for any visitors to enter. The interior is not well lit, but bring in a lantern or torch and you'll still be able to make out faded Japanese writing on the walls. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Guam#Other_destinations|War in the Pacific National Historical Park]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.422508 | long=144.675661 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=War in the Pacific National Historical Park | wikidata=Q7968628 | content=On [[Guam]], but part of the US national park system since Guam is an American territory. The park honors all those who fought in the Pacific, not just on Guam and not just Americans. Guam was taken by the Japanese early in the war and retaken by the US in 1944. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Gizo]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-8.1058 | long=156.8350 | directions=[[Solomon Islands]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Gizo, Solomon Islands | wikidata=Q1236908 | content=Located on Ghizo Island, Gizo evokes the memories of vivid fighting in WWII. It is nowadays a tourist centre and some wrecks can be found underwater, including the Toa Maru. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Peleliu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=7.00 | long=134.25 | directions=[[Palau]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Peleliu | wikidata=Q497981 | content=Once a heavily fortified Japanese stronghold, Peleliu was the scene of a particularly brutal battle when U.S. Marines made an amphibious assault on the beaches to liberate the island from Imperial Japanese forces, who evolved tactics in a network of rocky caves in the surface of Umurbrogol Mountain (Bloody Nose Ridge). Today, the island is filled with relics, with intact military installations and an airstrip. It also has memorials honoring sacrifice to those who died in the fighting. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Angaur | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.9092 | long=134.1388 | directions=[[Palau]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Angaur | wikidata=Q530813 | content=This coraline island was once a Imperial Japanese command post until it became the site of the battle in 1944 as part of Operation Forager, when the 81st Infantry Division gained complete control of the island. Many of its American and Japanese battle relics remain scattered across the island. Often known as Monkey Island, Angaur is the only place in Micronesia inhabited by feral monkeys, descended by macaques that escaped during German occupation. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Enewetak Atoll | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.4654 | long=162.1890 | directions=[[Marshall Islands]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Enewetak Atoll | wikidata=Q649190 | content=Formerly known as Eniwetok, the island was the site of Operation Catchpole, when the marines fought a five-day amphibious assault on the island to gain control of a Japanese-owned airfield. Since 1980, Enewetak has been a habitable island. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kuop | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=7.058889 | long=151.919167 | directions=[[Federated States of Micronesia]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kuop | wikidata=Q1131149 | content=An atoll just southeast of the Chuuk Lagoon and known as Neoch. On February 4th, 1944, the Japanese destroyer ''Tachikaze'' ran aground on a reef and was later sunk in Operation Hailstone. Nowadays it is officially the largest marine protected area in Micronesia. }} ===South Korea=== Korea was a Japanese colony from 1910-1945, and many Korean men were drafted into the Japanese military. The Japanese had subjected Korea to a brutal occupation, in which the Korean language and culture were vigorously suppressed, and numerous Koreans were subject to live human experimentations without anaesthetic. Perhaps most notoriously, many Korean women were forced to become "comfort women"; sex slaves in Japanese military brothels. * {{listing | name=War & Women's Human Rights Museum | url=https://womenandwarmuseum.net | lat=37.5601 | long=126.9148 | content=South Korea's main museum dedicated to the memory of the "comfort women". }} ===Taiwan=== Taiwan was a Japanese colony from the end of the first Sino-Japanese war in 1895 until 1945, and many Taiwanese were enlisted into the Japanese military. Unlike in other Asian countries, the Taiwanese generally have positive views of Japanese colonial rule, and regard its legacy as an integral part of their national and cultural identity, though there are exceptions. Nevertheless, massacres of both ethnic Chinese and Aboriginal people occurred throughout the occupation. Although not as well-known as their Korean counterparts, numerous Taiwanese women were also forced to serve as "comfort women". The last Japanese holdout to be found alive was Attun Palalin, better known by his Japanese name Teruo Nakamura, an [[Indigenous Taiwanese culture|indigenous Taiwanese]] of Amis ethnicity who was enlisted as a private into one of the Japanese military's colonial units. He was repatriated to Taiwan following his discovery in 1974 on the island of [[Morotai]], [[Indonesia]], and died of lung cancer in 1979. * {{listing | name=Ama Museum | alt=阿嬤家-和平與女性人權館 | url=https://www.amamuseum.org.tw/en | email= | address= | lat=25.0645 | long=121.5181 | directions=[[Taipei/Old Taipei|Old Taipei]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ama Museum | wikidata=Q24837610 | content=Museum dedicated to the memory of the Taiwanese women who were forced to serve as "comfort women" in Japanese military brothels. }} * {{listing | name=Jinguashi | alt=金瓜石 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Ruifang|Ruifang, New Taipei]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-18 | content=A small village which is near the Gold Ecological Park and the Jinguashi Mine, which is one of the largest gold mines in the world. From 1942 to 1945, the area was the location of the Kinkaseki POW Camp, where over 1,100 Allied prisoners of war were held captive and forced to work in the mines. There is a small memorial at the site of the POW camp. In the area is also the ruins of a Shinto shrine that was built by the Japanese. | wikipedia=Jinguashi | wikidata=Q5365867 }} * {{listing | name=National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine | alt=國民革命忠烈祠 | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.078406 | long=121.533043 | directions=[[Taipei/Zhongshan|Zhongshan District, Taipei]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine | wikidata=Q5956488 | content=Temple memorializing those who gave their lives for the Republic of China (ROC) during its tenure on mainland China including during the Second Sino-Japanese War. There is a changing of the guard ceremony every hour, on the hour from 09:00 to 17:00, which involves an impressive and highly synchronized rifle-twirling display by soldiers from the Taiwanese military. }} ===United States=== * {{listing | name=Pearl Harbor | lat=21.365 | long=-157.95 | content=Site of the bombing in [[Honolulu/Western|Western Honolulu]] that caused the [[United States]] to enter the war. }} * {{listing | name=The National WWII Museum | alt= | url=https://www.nationalww2museum.org | email= | address=[[New Orleans]] | lat=29.943139 | long=-90.07035 | directions= | phone=+1 504 528 1944 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The National WWII Museum | wikidata= | content=Museum commemorating the American war effort in both theatres of World War II, with interactive displays that aim to re-create the battlefield experience for visitors.}} [[File:MacArthur Memorial.jpg|thumb|The MacArthur Memorial]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=MacArthur Memorial | alt= | url=http://www.macarthurmemorial.org | email= | address=198 Bank St; Norfolk, Virginia | lat=36.847701 | long=-76.28862 | directions= | phone=+1-757-441-2965 | tollfree= | fax=+1-757-441-5389 | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM; Su 11AM-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=MacArthur Memorial | wikidata=Q22073406 | lastedit=2019-04-02 | content=Museum dedicated to the life of Douglas MacArthur, the general who led U.S. forces to victory over the Japanese in the Philippines, and was appointed Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces. His grave is located within the museum. MacArthur is one of the few non-presidents to have been granted a U.S. state funeral. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial | alt= | url=http://www.nps.gov/poch/ | email= | address= | lat=38.0575 | long=-122.029722 | directions= | phone=+1 925 228-8860 ext 6520 (reservations) | tollfree= | hours=Tours available Th-Sa at 12:45PM (allow 1½ hours). Not all dates and times may be available. No public access Su-We | price= | wikipedia=Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial | image=Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial POCH 0011.jpg | wikidata=Q7230541 | lastedit=2019-04-06 | content=This memorial honors 320 individuals (including 200 young African American men) who were killed in a munitions accident during World War II while loading munitions and bombs onto ships bound for the Pacific Rim. Following the explosion many of the enlisted men refused to work, resulting in the Navy's largest mutiny trial and eventually helping to push the US Armed Forces to desegregate. The memorial is located on an active military base and as a result '''reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance''' and '''all visitors must be US citizens or permanent residents'''. Reservations can be made by calling or via an [http://www.nps.gov/poch/planyourvisit/permits-and-reservations.htm online reservation form]. All visitors are shuttled to the memorial from John Muir National Historic Site in nearby [[Martinez (California)|Martinez]]. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Aleutian World War II National Historic Area | alt= | url=http://nps.gov/aleu/ | email= | address= | lat=53.89494 | long=-166.53967 | directions=Visitor Center located on the apron of the Dutch Harbor airport | phone=+1 907 581-1276 | tollfree= | hours=Year round, but May-October offer the best access | price=Free | lastedit=2019-04-06 | content=This site is the remains of one of four WWII era forts constructed to defend Dutch Harbor against a potential Japanese attack. The visitor center is free, however, a Land Use Permit must be obtained to visit the historic site on Mount Ballyhoo. }} [[File:Iwo_Jima_Memorial_5.JPG|thumb|Marine Corps War Memorial]] * The {{marker|type=listing|name=US Marine Corps Memorial|lat=38.890432|long=-77.069714}} at [[Arlington (Virginia)|Arlington]], Virginia, depicts the famous scene of the raising of the (American) flag on [[Ogasawara Islands|Iwo Jima]], whose history is told by the movie ''Flags of our Fathers'' directed by Clint Eastwood. One of the soldiers involved, Ira Hayes, is commemorated in a fine song by Johnny Cash. * {{listing | type=listing | name=US National Museum of the Pacific War | alt= | url=http://www.pacificwarmuseum.org | email= | address= | lat=30.2719 | long=-98.8653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Museum of the Pacific War | wikidata=Q6974516 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=In [[Fredericksburg (Texas)]], home town of Admiral Chester Nimitz who commanded US forces in part of the Pacific, this is a large museum complex with many exhibits. }} * {{listing | name=Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=http://www.intrepidmuseum.org/ | email= | address=[[Manhattan/Theater District|Theater District]], [[New York City]] | lat=40.764722 | long=-74.000833 | directions= | phone=+1 212 245-0072 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Apr-Sep: M-F 10AM-5PM, Sa Su 10AM-6PM; Oct-Mar: Tu-Su 10AM-5PM | price=$16.50 adult | wikipedia=Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum | image=Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum, Manhattan.jpg | wikidata=Q952270 | content=The aircraft carrier ''USS Intrepid'' (CV-11), which had participated in World War II, is docked here and has been converted to a museum ship. The carrier was hit by numerous kamikaze attacks in the latter stages of the war, and there are now several interactive displays commemorating the casualties of the kamikaze attacks. }} * {{listing | name=Arlington National Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/ | email= | address=[[Arlington (Virginia|Arlington]], [[Virginia]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q216344 | content=The main military cemetery of the United States, home to the graves of numerous soldiers who died fighting in various wars including both world wars.}} A number of sites in the US commemorate the internment of Japanese-Americans during the war. * {{listing | name=Manzanar Internment Camp | alt= | url=http://www.nps.gov/manz/index.htm | email= | address=[[Independence (California)|Independence]], [[California]] | lat=36.728333 | long=-118.154444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Manzanar | image=Manzanar Tower (6713406239).jpg | wikidata=Q985484 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=The largest internment camp in the United States where approximately 110,000 Japanese-Americans and Japanese nationals living in the United States during the war were forced to live after being ordered to leave their homes. This museum contains information about the camp, the experiences of those who were forced to live here, and life after the war. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=WWII Japanese American Internment Museum | alt= | url=http://rohwer.astate.edu/plan-your-visit/museum/ | email= | address=McGehee, Arkansas (near [[Lake Village (Arkansas)|Lake Village]]) | lat=33.6283 | long=-91.3951 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Japanese American Internment Museum | wikidata=Q16849571 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=A former internment camp turned into a museum to educate people about the lives of Japanese-Americans at the Rohwer Relocation Center. It also includes information about the Jerome Japanese American Relocation Center that was built nearby in Jerome. Because this museum covers both, there is no museum in Jerome. The Jerome site only features a small monument in rememberance of its internnment camp. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Topaz Museum | alt= | url=http://www.topazmuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=39.414397 | long=-112.772732 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Topaz War Relocation Center | wikidata=Q7824771 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=The Topaz Relocation Center (internment camp) housed over 11,000 Japanese-Americans. Because people were moved here before it was finished, internees were actually hired to build the wire fences to pen themselves in. }} * {{listing | name=Tule Lake Segregation Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/tule/ | email= | address= | lat=41.889444 | long=-121.374722 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tule Lake Unit, World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument | image=Tule Lake camp main.jpg | wikidata=Q5944942 | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=Tule Lake was another internment camp, and the one to house Japanese-Americans that the American government regarded as particularly "dangerous" to segregate them from American society and eventually deport some of them. }} * {{listing | name=Minidoka National Historic Site | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/miin/index.htm | email= | address=near [[Twin Falls]], Idaho | lat=42.679 | long=-114.244 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q927150 | lastedit=2021-10-19 | content=Most of the camp's buildings were removed after the war and can be found throughout the Magic Valley region. However, the site has remains of the guard entry station, waiting room, and rock gardens as well as a reconstructed guard tower. }} * {{listing | name=Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial | alt= | url=http://bijaema.org/ | email= | address=[[Bainbridge Island]], Washington | lat=47.6153 | long=-122.51 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4848541 | lastedit=2021-10-19 | content= }} ==Respect== While few living people remember the war, the countries involved have not always found reconciliation. In particular, the relationships between Japan and its neighbors China and South Korea are still tense today. Outside Japan and Taiwan, you should avoid displaying the Rising Sun Flag in East and Southeast Asia, as that would be the equivalent of displaying the Nazi flag in the West. ==See also== * [[World War II in China]] * [[World War II in Europe]] * [[World War II in Africa]] * [[Japanese colonial empire]] * [[World War I]] * [[Holocaust remembrance]] * [[Industrialization of the United States]] for non-military US history of the 1930s and 40s * [[Long March]] * [[Nuclear tourism]] {{PartOfTopic|World War II}} {{guidetopic}} c9c79jdkm0gzpm6mcgg888c16lfeh4r 5091360 5090778 2025-07-11T11:06:32Z 廣九直通車 1666899 /* Aftermath */ +LKY's observation; a fair amount of IJA actually resisted orders to surrender (believing that they are faked by the Allies) 5091360 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wikivoyage banner Bombardment of Kamaishi.jpg|caption=The bombardment of Kamaishi, July 1945|ftt=yes}} The '''Pacific War''' was a theatre of World War II including [[East Asia]], [[Southeast Asia]] and [[Oceania]], separate from [[World War II in Europe]]. Western accounts generally consider the war to have started with the [[Pearl Harbor]] attack of December 1941. Chinese accounts date it from Japan's invasion of the Chinese heartland in July 1937 (see [[World War II in China]]) or even their expansion into [[Manchuria]] in 1931. The war ended with Japanese surrender in August 1945; an important factor was that the first, and so far the only, atomic bombs used in warfare were detonated over [[Hiroshima]] and [[Nagasaki]]. {| style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto; text-align:center;" | Theatres of World War II:<br>'''[[World War II in Europe|Europe]] • [[World War II in Africa|Africa]] • [[World War II in China|China]] • Pacific''' |} To a great extent the 1937-1945 Second Sino-Japanese War was part of the Pacific Theatre, the overall war of many nations against Imperial Japan. In some ways, though, it was unique; it started before the more general war, was a land and air war rather than largely naval and island-hopping, and was fought almost entirely by the Chinese themselves without much involvement of their allies. Also, all its battlegrounds and memorials are in China. Wikivoyage therefore has a separate [[World War II in China]] article. ==Understand== {{seealso|Japanese colonial empire}} [[Japan]] underwent major changes starting with the American Commodore Matthew Perry's "gunboat diplomacy" visit in 1853 which forced the government to sign a number of humiliating and disadvantageous treaties with Western powers. Japan reacted to this shock by quickly "modernizing" along Western lines, copying legal and institutional approaches and sending young Japanese to universities in Europe and the United States to bring home "Western knowledge". After that, Japan quickly became established as the first non-Western industrialized country and a major power in East Asia. [[File:Mutsuhito-Emperor-Meiji-1873.png|thumb|Emperor Meiji ruled 1868 to 1912<br/>Note the Western-style clothing and sword]] The Meiji Restoration of 1868 broke the power of the shoguns who had been the real rulers for centuries (albeit always acting in the Emperor's name) and restored the Emperor to a central role. However, while the Emperor did regain political power and prestige, a "Meiji oligarchy" around him ran most of the daily affairs of state. Japan began to expand in the late 19th century, annexing [[Okinawa]] in 1879, then defeating China in the 1894-95 First Sino-Japanese War, annexing [[Taiwan]] and the [[Liaoning|Liaodong Peninsula]], and forcing China to give up its influence over its vassal state [[Korea]]. In the same period, the US became more active in the Pacific, taking over the [[Philippines]] in 1898 after a war with Spain, and annexing [[Hawaii]] and [[Guam]]. Various European powers also expanded their holdings or influence in the region. The British, aiming to counter Russian influence, helped both China and Japan to build modern navies in the late 19th century. The French sank most of the Chinese fleet at the [[Mawei#See|battle of Fuzhou]] in 1884, but the Japanese fleet did considerably better. Japan won a war against the [[Russian Empire]] in 1905, the first time in centuries that an Asian nation had won a war against a country mostly considered "Western". Indeed Russian Tsar Nicholas II had emphasized his "defender of European Christendom" image in racist war propaganda. Once the Russians were out of their way, Japan annexed Korea outright in 1910. Japan, with the largest navy in the Pacific, was part of the victorious Allies during [[World War I]], and was able to conquer the German colonies in the area. It would thus gain more territory from the defeated Central Powers following the end of that war in 1918, including the former German concessions in [[Shandong]], China. Such actions by Japan would later result in the May Fourth Movement, which is further described in [[Chinese revolutions#Understand|our article on early 20th century Chinese history]]. There was a faction fight among the Japanese high command in the late 1930s; they all agreed that expanding the empire was a fine idea, but how? Should they: * "Strike North", expand into [[Mongolia]] and [[Siberia]] and fight only the [[Soviet Union]]? * "Strike South" fighting the US, the [[British Empire]], and other colonial powers &mdash; the French, Dutch and Portuguese? The Imperial Way Faction (皇道派), which supported an invasion of the Soviet Union, even tried a coup (the February 26 Incident) in 1936, but that failed. Striking north was tried, but in 1939 the [[Soviet Union|Soviets]] gave Japanese forces a thorough thrashing at the [[Choibalsan#The_battle_of_Khalkhin_Gol|Battle of Khalkhin Gol]] in Mongolia. After that, Japan concentrated on striking south; arguably, this was a catastrophic blunder. Among other effects, it allowed the Soviet Union to re-deploy their battle-hardened Siberian troops to the European front, which helped turn the tide of that war eventually leading to the Allied victory in Europe. It also led directly to the attack on [[Pearl Harbor]] and war with all the nations already allied against Germany; this ended badly for Japan. ===China=== {{main|World War II in China}} Japan acquired [[Taiwan]] and some territory in [[Manchuria]] after winning the First Sino-Japanese War in 1895. They expanded their influence there when they defeated the Russians in 1905; in particular they took over administration of the profitable Russian-built railway. After [[World War I]] they got the former [[Chinese_provinces_and_regions#Treaty_ports_and_concessions|German concessions]] in [[Shandong]]. Then in 1931 they staged the [[Shenyang|Mukden]] Incident; Japanese troops bombed part of the railway, the attack was blamed on Chinese forces, and that gave Japan a pretext to occupy Manchuria, setting up a puppet state called Manchukuo. Japan invaded central [[China]] in 1937 and soon managed to occupy much of eastern China, including the then-capital [[Nanjing]]. This led to eight years of continuous fighting, until the Japanese surrender in 1945; see [[World War II in China]]. Roughly half of the total Japanese ground forces were tied down in China throughout the war, including troops they had planned to use elsewhere. All the Allied land victories in the Pacific War were partly due to Chinese tenacity. American, British and Dutch sanctions were imposed on Japan after the invasion of China; those, in particular restrictions on oil imports, were the main reason Japan gave for going to war with those nations. The Western powers also sent supplies to China via the [[Burma Road]]. The Soviet Union and America also sent volunteer air force units to support China, with the American one based in [[Yunnan]] known as the "Flying Tigers". The Chinese resistance against Japanese rule was also financially supported by many overseas Chinese. === Japan joins the world war === Meanwhile, [[World War II in Europe]] began with the German invasion of Poland in September 1939, and became more complex when Germany invaded the Soviet Union in June 1941. [[File:USS West Virginia2.jpg|thumb|USS West Virginia on fire in Pearl Harbor during the Japanese attack]] {{quote|Yesterday, December 7th, 1941 — a date which will live in infamy — the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.|author=US President Franklin D. Roosevelt, December 8, 1941}} The conflict became global in December 1941, when [[Japan]] attacked [[Pearl Harbor]], other US bases in the Pacific, the [[Philippines]], and British possessions such as [[Hong Kong]], [[Myanmar|Burma]] and [[Malaya]]. The [[United States]] and the entire British Empire immediately declared war on Japan, and Germany declared war on the US. The [[Soviet Union]] did not declare war on Japan until after the end of the war in Europe, in May 1945. After the Japanese surrender, it reclaimed the territories that the Russian Empire had lost to Japan in the 1904-05 Russo-Japanese War, and also took the [[Kuril Islands]], which remain disputed between Russia and Japan to this day. === Japanese conquests === Early in the war, Japan invaded and occupied much of [[Southeast Asia]] and parts of [[Oceania]]; they even managed to bomb the city of [[Darwin]] in [[Australia]]. By the middle of 1943, virtually all of Southeast Asia had been conquered by Japan, with the colonial powers of the [[United Kingdom]], [[France]], the [[Netherlands]], [[Portugal]] and the United States all having suffered humiliating defeats at the hands of the Japanese. [[File:Civilian War Memorial, Singapore - 20140802.jpg|thumb|The Civilian War Memorial in Singapore. Japanese occupying forces massacred over ten thousand civilians, mostly ethnic Chinese.]] The Japanese took effective control of some areas without fighting. The Vichy government in France, essentially a German puppet regime, ordered French administrators in French Indochina (now [[Vietnam]], [[Laos]] and [[Cambodia]]) to collaborate with Japan, and most did. [[Thailand]], the only country in Southeast Asia not colonized by Western powers, remained nominally independent but was forced to dance to the Japanese tune. Japan was able to establish military bases in these countries and to freely move troops and supplies through them. Japanese propaganda claimed they were driving out Western imperialists, leading an "Asia for Asians" movement, and this got them some support; countries such as [[India]] had both pro-Japanese and pro-Allied movements. Subhas Chandra Bose, the leader of the pro-Japanese Indian National Army (INA), is widely regarded as a national hero in India. In many areas, this was also divided along ethnic lines; in Malaya, at least initially, the Japanese were welcomed by many ethnic Malays and Indians, but opposed by most ethnic Chinese. In China both the Kuomintang and the Communists opposed Japan, but they were sometimes more interested in fighting each other. Everywhere, the local political movements were jockeying for control and trying to use the war to gain independence and/or domestic political influence for the time after the war. Japanese rule in the occupied territories was brutal, and by the end of the war, the Japanese had lost the support of much of the local population who initially supported them (e.g. Burmese independence hero Aung San). In the occupied areas, Japanese troops engaged in mass rapes, massacres and pillaging, with the [[Nanjing#Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall|Nanjing Massacre]] of 1937-38 being the most notorious. Many women from China, Korea and other occupied areas were forced to serve as "comfort women", sex slaves in Japanese military brothels. The Japanese also performed inhumane experiments on captive locals from the occupied territories, the most famous being Unit 731 in Manchuria (listed below), though other similar units existed throughout the occupied territories. They also treated prisoners of war very badly; perhaps the most famous incidents were the "[[Bataan]] death march" and the use of POWs as slave labour for the [[Kanchanaburi|Bridge on the River Kwai]], but there were many others. As retribution for their role in resisting Japanese rule in China, the ethnic Chinese &mdash; both in China and in Southeast Asia &mdash; were singled out for the harshest treatment; in all the occupied territories, they were rounded up for "screening" by the Japanese, and the unfortunate ones who were identified (often arbitrarily) as anti-Japanese were brought to remote locations and shot. === The tide turns === The Japanese suffered two important naval defeats at the hands of the Americans in mid-1942, the Battle of the Coral Sea (northeast of Australia) in May and the Battle of [[Midway Islands|Midway]] (northwest of Hawaii) in June. [[File:Wounded Australian soldier led by a Papuan orderly at Buna.jpg|thumb|A Papuan leading a wounded Australian soldier during the Kokoda campaign]] The Coral Sea was tactically close to a draw &mdash; each side lost one carrier and many aircraft &mdash; but can be counted as a US strategic victory, since the planned Japanese landings to take [[Port Moresby]] in New Guinea were prevented. Midway was a clear US victory, with many Japanese carriers sunk. Both battles killed a number of elite Japanese naval aviators, a catastrophe for Japanese forces. These were the first naval battles in history fought mainly by aircraft carriers which never came within sight of each other. The Americans were intercepting Japanese communication, and had broken many Japanese codes, which was an advantage in both battles. At Midway they surprised the Japanese by destroying some carriers when the planes were away on a bombing raid. Two land campaigns, both starting in mid-1942 and lasting until early 1943, also went badly for Japan. In what is now [[Papua New Guinea]], the ANZACs (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps) gave them their first defeat on land at [[Milne Bay]] then, in a hard-fought campaign, drove them back along the [[Kokoda Track]]. Meanwhile the Americans took the island of [[Guadalcanal]] after a prolonged and intense fight, allowing them to defend their supply and communication lines to Australia and New Zealand, and to create a forward base for island-hopping toward Japan. These Allied victories marked the turning point in the Pacific War. After that the ANZACs continued the New Guinea campaign and invaded the [[Solomon Islands]], while the British re-took Burma with the help of the Chinese, and reopened the [[Burma Road]] to supply Chinese forces. The Japanese had spread their forces too thinly in China, and the Chinese were able to counterattack and reclaim some of the occupied territories. The Americans re-took the Philippines and captured a series of islands across the Pacific, including some like [[Guam]] and [[Wake Island]] that Japan had taken from them in the first months of the war. At sea, Japan was defeated repeatedly by the Americans, with some Commonwealth help. The Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944 was the largest naval battle of the war; it took place during the invasion of the [[Philippines]], and was a major Allied victory. === End of the war === When the Americans took the [[Mariana Islands]] (including [[Saipan]] and [[Guam]]) in 1944, the ground fighting was intense with heavy casualties on both sides. However the "Great Marianas Turkey Shoot" saw over 550 Japanese aircraft destroyed, while America only lost about 120 aircraft. This was a disaster for the Japanese, who were already running short of both planes and pilots. Air bases in the Marianas allowed the US to directly attack Japan with its long-range B-29 bombers; there were devastating fire bombing raids on many Japanese cities, including a huge one against [[Tokyo]]. The atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki by B-29s from [[Tinian]]. In early 1945 the US won fierce battles in [[Okinawa]] and [[Ogasawara Islands|Iwo Jima]] and occupied those islands, putting them in position to attack the Japanese home islands with shorter-range aircraft or to invade. Having by then won the naval part of the war, they also bombarded Japanese cities with their ships. Japan tried desperation tactics such as sending ''kamikaze'' (translates as "godly wind", named after typhoons that sank the invading [[Mongol Empire|Mongol]] fleet in the 13th century) pilots on suicide missions to crash planes full of explosives into American ships, but even that did not make a large difference. The invasion never took place. The Americans dropped the first (and to date only) atomic bombs to be used in actual combat on [[Hiroshima]] on 6 August 1945, followed by [[Nagasaki]] on 9 August 1945; on the same day the Soviet Union invaded Manchuria. Japan surrendered unconditionally to the Allies on 15 August 1945, bringing World War II to an end. ===Aftermath=== Following the surrender, Japan was occupied by the Americans and forced to give up all its colonies. While the Emperor remained on his throne, many political and military leaders were indicted in the ''International Military Tribunal for the Far East'', and many were sentenced to death. [[File:Surrender of Japan - USS Missouri (restored).jpg|thumb|Japanese officials on board the USS Missouri during the surrender ceremonies on 2 September 1945]] The Americans also imposed a new pacifist constitution on Japan, forbidding it from establishing a military, and turning it into a democratic constitutional monarchy. However, when the [[Cold War]] began, the American occupiers established the National Police Reserve, a paramilitary organization that would later develop into the Japan Self-Defense Forces, the ''de facto'' military of the country. Taiwan and Manchuria were returned to China, though the Chinese Civil War would resume following the Japanese surrender, eventually resulting in victory for the Communists in the mainland, and the Nationalists being forced to retreat to Taiwan, which continues to be governed separately to this day. Korea regained its independence, but would be split into communist [[North Korea]] and capitalist [[South Korea]], leading up to the [[Korean War]]. The Americans would eventually leave mainland Japan in 1952, though the American military continues to maintain several bases in different parts of the country. Okinawa was only returned to Japan in 1972, though the United States continues to maintain a strong military presence there. {{quote|We were supposed [...] to panic when the bombs fell, but we found they panicked more than we did. So it was no longer the old relationship.|author=Lee Kuan Yew|source=commenting on the British during World War II.}} The Western colonial powers also got their colonies back, but the war had galvanised many nationalist movements, which were to come of age in the years to come and eventually lead to the independence of the colonies. The first was the [[Philippines]], where American rule ended in 1946; the largest was the end of the [[British Raj]] in 1947, which became the modern countries of [[India]], [[Pakistan]] and later [[Bangladesh]]. See also [[Indian independence movement]]. The [[Indochina Wars]] were a brutal example of lingering national and ideological conflict in Asia. [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] would eventually be given back to China in the 1990s but part of the agreement between China and the former colonial powers stipulates a "one country two systems" arrangement that grant them autonomy. A few Japanese soldiers, isolated in various jungles, did not know or resisted the orders to surrender and fought on. The last two surrendered in 1974, one on the Philippine island of [[Lubang]] and the other on Indonesia's [[Morotai Island]]. Two Japanese soldiers would join communist guerrillas in Malaya and Thailand after the end of the war, and only surrendered in 1989 after the end of the communist insurgency. ==Sites== Many places that were sites of battles, atrocities or other wartime activities can be visited. There are also many museums with exhibits wholly or partly related to this war. {{Mapframe|25|-10|zoom=1|layer=W|height=300|width=500}} ===Australia=== {{seealso|Military museums and sites in Australia}} Australia and New Zealand declared war on Germany in 1939 shortly after the UK did, and fought for the Allies in Europe and [[World War II in Africa|North Africa]]. As the Japanese attacked American and British territory in the Pacific, most of these troops were relocated to the Pacific theatre. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Adelaide River War Cemetery | alt= | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2023510/ADELAIDE%20RIVER%20WAR%20CEMETERY | email= | address=| lat=-13.23116 | long=131.11444 | directions=[[Adelaide River]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q38160721 | lastedit=2017-08-09 | content=The main cemetery for military personnel and civilians killed in northern Australia during the Second World War, including as a result of the dozens of Japanese air raids on Darwin and nearby airfields as well as the little known bombings in Coomalie Creek, Adelaide River and Litchfield National Park. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Australian War Memorial | alt= | url=https://www.awm.gov.au/ | email= | address=[[Canberra/North Canberra|North Canberra]] | lat=-35.280500 | long=149.149100 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Australian War Memorial | wikidata=Q782783 | content=Located in [[Canberra]], the memorial also includes a military museum dedicated to the memory of Australian soldiers who fought in various wars including both world wars. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Darwin Military Museum | alt= | url=http://www.darwinmilitarymuseum.com.au | email= | address= | lat=-12.407517 | long=130.819769 | directions=[[Darwin]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Darwin Military Museum | wikidata=Q5226003 | content=Darwin was an important staging point for Australian and American forces during the war, and would be the only Australian city that was subject to Japanese bombing raids. The bombings of Darwin are the only post-colonial acts of war against Australia. The museum houses exhibits about the bombing of Darwin. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=MacArthur Museum | alt= | url=http://www.mmb.org.au/ | email= | address= | lat=-27.46855 | long=153.02742 | directions=[[Brisbane]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This museum covers the career of American General Douglas MacArthur, who commanded the Allied forces in the South West Pacific from Brisbane between 1942 and 1944 from what are now the Museum's premises, as well as Brisbane's experiences in World War II.}} * {{listing | name=[[Broome]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q606294 | lastedit=2022-02-12 | content=Broome was attacked by the Japanese on 3 March 1942 by fighter planes. Although Broome was no more than an insignificant tiny pearling port, it was a major stopover point for refuelling when going from modern day Indonesia to the other cities of Australia. Learn more about the attack at the Broome Historical Museum. }} * {{listing | name=Wagga Wagga War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/4003836/wagga-wagga-war-cemetery/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Wagga Wagga]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7959532 | lastedit=2022-08-30 | content=Perhaps Australia's most famous war cemetery, home to the graves of several Australian soldiers who died fighting in World War II. }} ===Canada=== Canadian troops were mostly active in the European theatre, though they also fought in the Battle of Hong Kong as part of the British forces. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Canadian War Museum | alt= | url=https://www.warmuseum.ca/ | email= | address=[[Ottawa]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Canadian War Museum | wikidata=Q1032442 | lastedit=2021-08-23 | content=Canada's main military history museum, with displays commemorating the efforts of Canadian troops in various wars and peacekeeping missions, including both world wars. }} ===China=== [[File:AntijapaneseWarMemorialMuseum.jpg|thumb|Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression]] For sites in Mainland China, see '''[[World War II in China]].''' For historical reasons, sites in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan are listed separately on this page. ''This does not represent an endorsement of any political position.'' ===Hong Kong=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sai Wan War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2000320/SAI%20WAN%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Hong Kong/Eastern District|Chai Wan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Labuan War Cemetery | wikidata=Q2148037 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Canadian, Indian and local Chinese soldiers who died in the Battle of Hong Kong. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sha Tau Kok Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall | alt=沙頭角抗戰紀念館 | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.53656 | long=114.20888 | directions=[[Hong Kong/New Territories|Sha Tau Kok]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-06 | content=Opened in September 2022, this is the first comprehensive museum about the Second World War in Hong Kong. The museum is at the former home of the Luo Family, which was the first base of operations for Communist-led guerrilla fighters from the Mainland who came across the border to help resist the Japanese. }} ===India=== India was for the most part spared the horrors of World War II, though Indian troops were used by the British military for their war efforts elsewhere, and eastern India was used as a staging point for Allied troops fighting in Burma. The Japanese had attempted to invade India through [[Imphal]] and [[Kohima]] in 1944 from then Japanese-occupied Burma, with help from the Indian National Army (INA), a pro-Japanese Indian independence movement. However, the combined British and Indian forces were successful in repelling the Japanese attacks, forcing the Japanese into a retreat by July 1944. World War II would also be a major cause of the [[Bengal]] Famine in 1943, as the British diverted nearly all the food to support their war effort in Europe and left next to nothing for the Bengalis. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Imphal War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2064600/IMPHAL%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Imphal]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Imphal War Cemetery | wikidata=Q19840225 | content=Commonwealth war cemetery with the graves of British and Indian soldiers who died in the Battle of Imphal. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kohima War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2058100/kohima-war-cemetery/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Kohima]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kohima War Cemetery | wikidata=Q19841008 | content=Commonwealth war cemetery with the graves of British and Indian soldiers who died in the Battle of Kohima. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Chinese Cemetery, Ramgarh | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=23.609910930907077 | long=85.4879024693129 | directions=[[Jharkhand]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | content=Chinese war cemetery built by the Nationalists, with the graves of hundreds of Chinese soldiers who died fighting in the Burma Campaign, most of them unidentified. }} ===Japan=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Okinawa Peace Park and Himeyuri Monument | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=26.09661 | long=127.725645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-08-30 | content=The site of one of the most brutal and bloody battles of the war, [[Okinawa]] island has many war remnants and memorials. Outside of Japan, Okinawa is often viewed as the first battle on Japanese soil. However, like the other Pacific Islands, Okinawa was also colonized territory so the local population was not fully trusted by the Japanese and often treated as expendable. With the Americans being obvious enemies and the Japanese not being complete allies, the question on many Okinawans' minds was not "How am I going to survive?" but "How do I want to die?". The museums here show the war from a uniquely Okinawan perspective, including life for citizens, students and military. It also depicts well how they were mistreated by both the Japanese and the Americans during and after the war. The Peace Park and the Himeyuri Monument in [[Itoman]] are the best places to learn about the battle, but remnants and reminders of the war can be found throughout the island. }} [[File:Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima, larger - edit1.jpg|thumb|American soldiers raising the flag on Iwo Jima]] *{{listing | type=listing | name=[[Ogasawara Islands|Iwo Jima]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.783333 | long=141.316667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Iwo Jima | wikidata=Q201633 | content=Another group of islands close to Japan, scene of some extremely fierce fighting. An image of victorious US Marines raising the Stars and Stripes there is quite famous. [http://www.miltours.com/ US Military Tours] has exclusive rights to the island, and only U.S. citizens are eligible to visit. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots | alt= | url=http://www.chiran-tokkou.jp/english/ | email= | address= | lat=31.363333 | long=130.434444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots | wikidata=Q4458048 | lastedit=2016-01-10 | content=As the war approached the home islands, the desperate Japanese began sending out young men to fly aircraft packed with explosives into American ships. The museum is located in [[Chiran]] over the former spot where the ''tokko'' pilots (known abroad as kamikaze pilots) were trained and flew from. The museum contains information about the pilots, artifacts and letters from them, and recovered kamikaze planes. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Hiroshima Peace Park and Memorial Museum | alt= | url=http://www.pcf.city.hiroshima.jp/virtual/VirtualMuseum_e/tour_e/tour_fra_e.html | email= | address= | lat=34.392728 | long=132.452374 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park | wikidata=Q1207208 | lastedit=2015-08-30 | content=[[Hiroshima]] was the first place in the world to be attacked with an atomic bomb. The museum shows how devastating the bomb was to the city and the effects it had on the people from the immediate aftermath to the present day. }} * {{listing | name=Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Memorial Hall | alt= | url=http://www1.city.nagasaki.nagasaki.jp/na-bomb/museum/museume01.html {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat=32.772778 | long=129.865 | directions=[[Nagasaki]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum | wikidata=Q1099077 | lastedit=2015-08-30 | content=Museums that are on the site where the atomic bomb was dropped on August 9, 1945. The Nagasaki bombing led to Japanese surrender and is also noted as the last place to have an atomic bomb dropped on it. }} * {{listing | name=Oka Masaharu Memorial Nagasaki Peace Museum | alt=岡まさはる記念長崎平和資料館 | url=https://www.okakinen.jp/ | email= | address= | lat=32.75523 | long=129.87216 | directions=[[Nagasaki]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=One of the very few places in Japan where the war crimes of the Japanese army during the Second World War are documented. Another focus of the exhibition lies on the foreign victims of the atomic bomb and their struggle for recognition and compensation. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Peace Osaka | alt=大阪国際平和センター | url=http://peace-osaka.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat=34.681667 | long=135.53 | directions=[[Osaka/Osaka_castle|Osaka Castle area, Osaka]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Osaka International Peace Center | image=Peace-osaka.jpg | wikidata=Q7105564 | content=A museum dedicated to the promotion of peace through displays of war. Because it is an Osaka museum, it largely focuses on the effects of American aerial bombings on Osaka between December 1944 and August 1945. In the past, the museum also had exhibitions depicting the atrocities committed by Japan against China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Sadly, however, those exhibitions were permanently removed in 2015 in response to pressure from conservative political groups. }} * {{listing | name=Yasukuni Shrine | alt=靖國神社 Yasukuni-jinja | url=http://www.yasukuni.or.jp/english/ | email= | address= | lat=35.694167 | long=139.743056 | directions=[[Tokyo/Chiyoda|Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Yasukuni Shrine | image=Yasukuni Jinja 7 032.jpg | wikidata=Q242803 | content=A controversial shrine to Japan's war dead, housing the souls of some 2.5 million people killed in Japan's wars &mdash; including numerous Taiwanese and Koreans, and controversially, convicted war criminals executed by the Allies. Often visited by Japanese and Taiwanese politicians, drawing sharp criticisms from neighbours China and South Korea in the process. If you choose to visit, consider keeping it a secret from your Chinese or Korean friends. Also on the grounds of the shrine is the '''Yūshūkan War Memorial Museum''', which displays much World War II paraphernalia and presents a rather one-sided (and allegedly revisionist) account of World War II. }} ===Mongolia=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Khalkhin Gol]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.730278 | long=118.59 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Battles of Khalkhin Gol | wikidata=Q188925 | content=Site of a battle in 1939 in which the Soviets demolished a large Japanese force. This turned Japanese thinking away from expansion into [[Mongolia]] and [[Siberia]]; instead they adopted a "strike south" strategy which led directly to Pearl Harbor and their attacks in [[Southeast Asia]]. }} ===Southeast Asia=== ====Brunei==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Brunei-Australia Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=[[Bandar Seri Begawan]] | lat=5.037835056706218 | long=115.07569591085982 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-07-23 | content=Memorial on Muara Beach commemorating the landing site of the Australian soldiers who fought in the Battle of North Borneo to liberate Brunei from Japanese occupation. }} ==== Indonesia ==== * {{listing | name=Ambon War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2015000/ambon-war-cemetery/ | email= | address= | lat=-3.674812 | long=128.191813 | directions=[[Ambon]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Ambon.jpg | lastedit=2022-07-04 | content= The cemetery contains Australian soldiers who died during the Japanese invasion of Ambon and Timor in World War II }} ==== Malaysia ==== * {{listing | name=Bank Kerapu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.13191 | long=102.23549 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q12474498 | lastedit=2019-04-04 | content=There is a small war memorial and museum in the former Bank Kerapu building in [[Kota Bharu]], [[Malaysia]], which served as a secret police station during the Japanese occupation; it might not merit a special trip but is worth visiting if you are in Kota Bharu. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Labuan War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/17000/LABUAN%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Labuan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Labuan War Cemetery | wikidata=Q6467670 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian and Indian soldiers who died in the Borneo campaign. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Penang War Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=5.28147 | long=100.28872 | directions=[[Bayan Lepas]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Located at southeastern tip of Penang, it's a large abandoned military fortress built in the 1930s by the British to protect the southern approaches to the island. The British Royal Engineers and a work force of local labourers blasted and dug into the hill to create a fort with underground military tunnels, an intelligence and logistic centre, halls, offices, ventilation shafts, artillery firing bays, sleeping quarters, cook houses as well as an infirmary. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sandakan Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=5.88854 | long=118.047183 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sandakan Memorial Park | wikidata=Q2799368 | content=This memorial in the Malaysian city of [[Sandakan]] was built at the site of a former Japanese POW prison camp with funding from the Australian government to commemorate the Allied POWs who lost their lives during the Sandakan Death Marches. Only 6 people out of several thousand survived the march, and only because those 6 managed to escape. Incidentally, all 6 survivors were Australian. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Taiping War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/94500/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Taiping]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Taiping War Cemetery | wikidata=Q7676344 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian, Indian and Malayan soldiers who died in the Malaya Campaign. }} ====Myanmar==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Burma Road]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=23.5 | long=98.9 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Burma Road | wikidata=Q478684 | content=This road ran from Western China into Burma (now [[Myanmar]]) and connected to [[Assam]] in Eastern India as well. It was built by the Chinese in the late 1930s, upgraded by the Americans later, and used throughout the war. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Taukkyan War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/94500/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Taukkyan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Taukkyan War Cemetery | wikidata=Q7688705 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Indian and African soldiers who died in the Burma Campaign. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2007400/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Thanbyuzayat]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery | wikidata=Q19840907 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian, Indian, New Zealander, Canadian and Dutch POWs who died while building the Death Railway in Burma. }} ====Philippines==== [[File:US_Navy_041020-N-0493B-003_Backed_by_a_monument_marking_the_location_of_Gen._Douglas_MacArthur's_return_to_the_Philippines_60_years_ago,_a_Philippine_Marine_Corps_honor_guard_stands_at_attention_during_the_playing_of_Taps.jpg|thumb|MacArthur's landing site]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Corregidor Island]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Corregidor | wikidata=Q928075 | content=Established as an American fort to defend Manila from naval attacks, it fell to the Japanese in 1942, and was liberated in 1945. This is where General MacArthur left and uttered his most famous line "I shall return", a promise he fulfilled in 1944. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Capas]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Capas | wikidata=Q56427 | content=A largely rural municipality housing Camp O'Donnell, an American military camp turned into a POW camp where the infamous Bataan Death March in 1942 ended. Two memorial shrines dedicated to the American and Filipino prisoners of war who suffered and died under the hands of the Japanese are erected here, and two abandoned railroad stations where the prisoners were unloaded have been turned into museums and memorials. The exact number of prisoners on the march is unknown; estimates range from 6,000 to 18,000. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Coron]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12 | long=120.2 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Coron, Palawan | wikidata=Q111414 | content=This town in [[Palawan]] Province has excellent wreck diving; the US Navy sank about a dozen Japanese ships in shallow water nearby in 1944. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.172222 | long=125.012222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park | wikidata=Q18157528 | content=This is where General McArthur landed on his return to the country in 1944; it is in [[Palo]] municipality on [[Leyte Island]], near [[Tacloban]]. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Camp Pangatian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Raid at Cabanatuan | wikidata=Q705083 | content=A former American military camp turned into a POW camp by the Japanese, it is the site of the raid at Cabanatuan, a major engagement of the liberation of the Philippines in 1945. The camp, now a shrine, is northeast of [[Cabanatuan]] city (then a rural area) in [[Nueva Ecija]] province. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Manila American Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.abmc.gov/Manila | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Manila]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Manila American Cemetery | wikidata=Q12061468 | content=Cemetery where numerous American and Filipino soldiers who were killed during World War II were buried }} ==== Singapore ==== As the headquarters of the British forces in Malaya, there are numerous World War II sites scattered throughout Singapore, including several abandoned pillboxes and coastal gun batteries, as well as numerous beaches where the ethnic Chinese were brought to be shot by the Japanese in the Sook Ching Massacre. We cover a selection of some of the more important sites here. * {{listing | name=Alexandra Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.ah.com.sg/ | email= | address= | lat=1.286444 | long=103.801222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A former British military hospital, and the site of the Alexandra Hospital Massacre on 14-15 February 1942, in which Japanese soldiers massacred the staff and patients despite them having already surrendered. Today, it remains in use as a public hospital, and the original colonial-era hospital building has been preserved and remains in active use. There is also a plaque on the hospital grounds commemorating the victims of the massacre. }} * {{listing | name=The Battlebox | alt= | url=http://www.battlebox.com.sg/ | email= | address= | lat=1.29611 | long=103.846216 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A former British military bunker and command centre which served as the headquarters for the British forces in Malaya during the Malayan Campaign. It was here that Lieutenant-General Arthur E. Percival met with his senior officers and made the decision to surrender to the Japanese. It has been converted to a museum dedicated to the Malayan Campaign, with a re-enactment of how it functioned during the war. }} [[File:Changi Museum, Singapore - www.joyofmuseums.com - external.jpg|thumb|The gates at the Changi Museum]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=Changi Museum | alt= | url=http://www.changimuseum.sg/ | email= | address= | lat=1.3622 | long=103.974 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Changi Museum | wikidata=Q5072000 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=A former POW camp-turned-museum has information about the Japanese occupation of [[Singapore]] and what life was like in the POW camp. It focuses on the general history and conditions as well as containing personal accounts and artifacts donated by former prisoners. It has a replica of the '''Changi Chapel''' that was built by Australian POWs in captivity; the original was dismantled and moved to [[Canberra]] after the war, where it now stands in the Royal Military College, Duntroon. You can also see replicas of the '''Changi murals''', Christian murals that were painted by British POW Stanley Warren while in capitvity; the original murals are located in a military airbase and off limits to the general public. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Civilian War Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q5124736 | lastedit=2020-09-23 | content=Monument commemorating the local civilians who lost their lives during the Japanese occupation. The remains of many unidentified victims are buried under the memorial. }} * {{listing | name=Ford Motor Factory | alt= | url=http://www.nas.gov.sg/formerfordfactory | email= | address= | lat=1.352558 | long=103.769292 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A former factory of American automobile manufacturer Ford, and the first motor vehicle factory to be opened in Southeast Asia. This is also the site where the British lieutenant-general Arthur E. Percival surrendered unconditionally to Japanese general Tomoyuki Yamashita on 15 February 1942, thus ending the Malayan Campaign. It was also used by the Japanese to produce military vehicles during the occupation. It has now been converted to a museum dedicated to life in Singapore during the Japanese occupation. The boardroom in which the surrender took place has also been reconstructed for viewing. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Fort Siloso | alt= | url=https://www.sentosa.com.sg/en/things-to-do/attractions/fort-siloso/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q4419293 | lastedit=2020-09-22 | content=One of four British forts on what was then the island of Pulau Blakang Mati, today known as Sentosa. It is the only one of the four to have been restored as a tourist attraction, and contains the remnants of some British artillery guns, as well as interactive displays and a re-enactment of the unconditional surrender of the British forces to the Japanese. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kranji War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2004200/KRANJI%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kranji War Cemetery | wikidata=Q6436095 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian, Indian and Malayan soldiers who died in the Malayan Campaign. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Labrador Nature Reserve | alt= | url=https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/labrador-nature-reserve | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q14874451 | lastedit=2020-09-22 | content=The site of numerous British artillery gun emplacements during World War II. Today, you can see the remains of those gun emplacements, numerous pillboxes, and a network of underground tunnels that were used to store ammunition and move them to the gun emplacements. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Lim Bo Seng Memorial | alt= | url=https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/history/memorials/lim-bo-seng-memorial/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q54321624 | lastedit=2021-07-23 | content=Memorial dedicated to local war hero Lim Bo Seng, who participated in covert operations against the Japanese as part of Force 136, a branch of the British World War II intelligence agency. After being captured by the Japanese, he refused to divulge any information about his comrades despite being tortured, and eventually died of dysentery in prison in June 1944 at the age of 35. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Reflections at Bukit Chandu | alt= | url=https://www.nhb.gov.sg/what-we-do/our-work/preserve-our-stories-treasures-and-places/museums-and-institutions/reflections-at-bukit-chandu | email= | address= | lat=1.27945 | long=103.79407 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Reflections at Bukit Chandu | wikidata=Q7307287 | content=An interpretive centre of the Battle of Pasir Panjang, one of the fiercest battles in the Malayan Campaign that pitted the Malay Regiment (today the Royal Malay Regiment, the most decorated regiment in the Malaysian Army) against the Japanese. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sook Ching Inspection Centre | alt= | url=https://www.roots.gov.sg/places/places-landing/Places/historic-sites/sook-ching-inspection-centre | email= | address= | lat=1.283834 | long=103.846073 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sook Ching | content=The site where the occupying Japanese conducted their "screening" of the ethnic Chinese in Malaya after rounding them up. The unlucky ones who were identified as anti-Japanese were brought to the beaches and shot. Today, a plaque stands on the site to commemorate the victims of the massacre. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Syonan Jinja | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.344769 | long=103.822533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Syonan Jinja | content=A Shinto shrine built by the occupying Japanese in Singapore (which they re-named Syonan-to) in 1942, located at MacRitchie Reservoir, and destroyed after the Japanese surrender on 15th August 1945. The ruins of the shrine still exist, but are now in the middle of the jungle with no footpaths leading there, making it very hard to find. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Syonan Chureito | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.350892 | long=103.766769 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bukit Batok Memorial | content=A memorial built by Australian POWs to honour the Japanese war dead during World War II, with a smaller memorial behind that to commemorate the Allied war dead. Both memorials were torn down following the Japanese surrender, and today, only the road and stairs leading up to the memorial, as well as two pedestals at the bottom of the stairs, survive. A television transmission tower now occupies the former memorial site. }} ====Thailand==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Death Railway | alt=ทางรถไฟสายมรณะ | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-02-16 | content=The strategic railway tracks began from Nong Pla Duk Station in Amphoe Ban Pong, Ratchaburi, and ran via Kanchanaburi across the Khwae Yai River, westbound to the Three Pagodas Pass, to end at Thanbuyuzayat in Burma. Total length in Thai territory was 300&nbsp;km. The railway took only one year to complete, from October 1942–October 1943. After the war, some lengths of track were demolished and some submerged under the lake of Khao Laem Dam. }} ** {{listing | type=listing | name=Bridge over the River Kwai | alt=Saphan Mae Nam Kwae | url= | email= | address= | lat=14.04090 | long=99.50370 | directions=[[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | fax= | hours= |checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=This iron bridge across the Kwai Yai River is the main attraction for many visitors. Immortalized in the famous movie and novel, it was a part of the infamous '''Death Railway''' to [[Myanmar|Burma]], constructed by POWs working for the Japanese in hellish conditions during WWII. Some 16,000 POWs and 90,000 Asian workers (most of them enslaved) died during railway construction. The present iron bridge is the second wartime incarnation (a part of the original can be found in the War Museum), but two central box spans were rebuilt after the war to replace three sections destroyed by Allied bombing. }} ** {{listing | type=listing | name=Hellfire Pass | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=80 km northwest of [[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-02-16 | content=Only relocated in the 1980s, '''Konyu Cutting''' (known as '''Hellfire Pass''' by POWs and Asian labourers who cut and blasted through rock by hand to clear this pass for the Death Railway) has been reclaimed from the jungle as a profound war memorial funded by the Australian government. Excellent museum and self-guided walking tour facilities are available. The descent through the jungle down to the pass (listening to oral histories through audio headsets) is a moving experience. Annual Anzac Day Dawn Service are held here. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kanchanaburi War Cemetery | alt=สุสานทหารสัมพันธมิตรดอนรัก | url=http://www.cwgc.org/ | email= | address= | lat=14.03122 | long=99.52567 | directions=[[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-16 | content=This is the final resting place of 6,982 POWs who gave their lives for the construction of the Death Railway to Burma. All POWs at this site are from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Australia. After WWII, the Allies moved all the buried POWs along the railway line to two war cemeteries in Kanchanaburi so as to be easier to maintain. The graves are set in straight lines with neatly mown lawns, and some have moving personal inscriptions. Exceptionally well maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it is a sombre yet peaceful reminder of what happened. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Thailand-Burma Railway Centre | url=http://www.tbrconline.com/ | email= | address= | lat=14.03232 | long=99.52478 | directions=[[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Generally considered to be the best source of information regarding World War II in Thailand, railway construction and route, and the conditions endured by POWs and Asian labourers. Very moving exhibits, including video and interactive displays. }} ===Pacific Ocean=== [[Image:Aerial photograph of Wake Island on 25 May 1941.jpg|thumb|The Wake Island atoll from the northeast, in 1941]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Wake Island]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.3 | long=166.633333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Wake Island | wikidata=Q43296 | content=This US-controlled island was taken by Japan shortly after Pearl Harbor and held by them throughout the war. There are ruins of Japanese fortifications, a monument for the American defenders who put up a stiff fight despite being badly outnumbered and outgunned, and a monument for a group of 98 POWs executed by the Japanese. Today the island is a US military base, off limits for most visitors except through the occasional guided tour. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Midway Islands]] | alt= | url=https://www.fws.gov/refuge/midway_atoll/ | email= | address= | lat=28.20935 | long=-177.37813 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Midway Atoll | wikidata=Q47863 | content=The site of the Battle of Midway, one of the major turning points in the Pacific War. The atoll is today home to memorials commemorating the battle. It is only populated by U.S. government personnel, and access is highly restricted; visits by the general public are generally only possible through a guided tour. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Henderson Airfield | alt={{IATA|HIR}} | url= | email= | address= | lat=-9.428 | long=160.054789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Honiara International Airport | wikidata=Q859876 | lastedit=2015-12-14 | content=The Japanese began constructing an airfield in May 1942 in [[Honiara]] on Guadalcanal. Knowing that if they completed it, they'd be able to both isolate Australia from its allies and launch potentially devastating attacks, America quickly moved to take control of the airfield. It took six months to secure the airfield, after which the Americans finished construction on it and used it to launch attacks on other islands.</br>Henderson Airfield was later expanded to become the international airport of the [[Solomon Islands]], so of course it can be visited. Other sites around the airport include Bloody Ridge (where America defended against the Japanese), the Gifu (named after the [[Gifu|city by the same name]], it was a Japanese post attacked by the US), Mount Austin (used by the Japanese to get a full view of the airfield in their plan to retake it), as well as memorials for both the Americans and Japanese that fought here. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Betio Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.356266 | long=172.931607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Betio | wikidata=Q831455 | lastedit=2015-12-14 | content=Within a few days of Pearl Harbor, the Japanese took the [[Gilbert Islands]], then a British colony, now part of the independent nation [[Kiribati]]. America's first attack on Japanese forces occurred in [[Butaritari]], in the Gilberts, shortly after that.</br>In late 1943, the Allies came to oust Japan from the islands, which by then had been heavily fortified. Betio Island in [[Tarawa]] was the site of the '''Battle of Tarawa''', considered to be one of the bloodiest battles of the war. While war relics can be found on multiple islands throughout Kiribati, Betio Island is where the main battle took place and also where the most remains. Visitors can see tanks, bunkers, shipwrecks, guns, and memorials built by the Japanese, Americans, and Australians and New Zealanders. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Kokoda Track]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-8.898155 | long=147.739798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kokoda Track | wikidata=Q1424748 | lastedit=2016-01-25 | content=An important battle line in [[Papua New Guinea]], between [[Australia]] and [[Japan]], it is now a trekking destination, especially for Australians. }} [[File:Nauru-WWIIrelic.jpg|thumb|Remains of a Japanese gun on Nauru's Command Ridge]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=Command Ridge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-0.530547 | long=166.916702 | directions=[[Nauru]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Command Ridge | wikidata=Q2667931 | lastedit=2017-03-25 | content=During World War II, Nauru was occupied by the Japanese from August 1942 until their surrender at the tail end of the war in the wake of three years of near-continuous Allied air raids. Today, rusting relics from this era are scattered throughout the island — disused Japanese pillboxes line the shore every couple of kilometres, and old cannons can be seen along roadsides barely hidden by forest or even in plain sight between homes.</br>However, for those who want a firsthand look at Nauru's WWII history, Command Ridge (Nauruan: ''Janor'') is the place to go. As the island's highest point, rising to an elevation of 63 m above sea level, it was a natural lookout point for the occupiers. Today you'll find a bevy of old artillery emplacements (including a pair of six-barrel antiaircraft guns still pointed skyward), the ruins of a prison complex used to hold interned Nauruan natives (who were treated brutally by the Japanese) as well as five members of the Australian military captured during the invasion, and — most impressive of all — the former communications center, now open for any visitors to enter. The interior is not well lit, but bring in a lantern or torch and you'll still be able to make out faded Japanese writing on the walls. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Guam#Other_destinations|War in the Pacific National Historical Park]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.422508 | long=144.675661 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=War in the Pacific National Historical Park | wikidata=Q7968628 | content=On [[Guam]], but part of the US national park system since Guam is an American territory. The park honors all those who fought in the Pacific, not just on Guam and not just Americans. Guam was taken by the Japanese early in the war and retaken by the US in 1944. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Gizo]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-8.1058 | long=156.8350 | directions=[[Solomon Islands]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Gizo, Solomon Islands | wikidata=Q1236908 | content=Located on Ghizo Island, Gizo evokes the memories of vivid fighting in WWII. It is nowadays a tourist centre and some wrecks can be found underwater, including the Toa Maru. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Peleliu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=7.00 | long=134.25 | directions=[[Palau]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Peleliu | wikidata=Q497981 | content=Once a heavily fortified Japanese stronghold, Peleliu was the scene of a particularly brutal battle when U.S. Marines made an amphibious assault on the beaches to liberate the island from Imperial Japanese forces, who evolved tactics in a network of rocky caves in the surface of Umurbrogol Mountain (Bloody Nose Ridge). Today, the island is filled with relics, with intact military installations and an airstrip. It also has memorials honoring sacrifice to those who died in the fighting. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Angaur | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.9092 | long=134.1388 | directions=[[Palau]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Angaur | wikidata=Q530813 | content=This coraline island was once a Imperial Japanese command post until it became the site of the battle in 1944 as part of Operation Forager, when the 81st Infantry Division gained complete control of the island. Many of its American and Japanese battle relics remain scattered across the island. Often known as Monkey Island, Angaur is the only place in Micronesia inhabited by feral monkeys, descended by macaques that escaped during German occupation. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Enewetak Atoll | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.4654 | long=162.1890 | directions=[[Marshall Islands]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Enewetak Atoll | wikidata=Q649190 | content=Formerly known as Eniwetok, the island was the site of Operation Catchpole, when the marines fought a five-day amphibious assault on the island to gain control of a Japanese-owned airfield. Since 1980, Enewetak has been a habitable island. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kuop | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=7.058889 | long=151.919167 | directions=[[Federated States of Micronesia]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kuop | wikidata=Q1131149 | content=An atoll just southeast of the Chuuk Lagoon and known as Neoch. On February 4th, 1944, the Japanese destroyer ''Tachikaze'' ran aground on a reef and was later sunk in Operation Hailstone. Nowadays it is officially the largest marine protected area in Micronesia. }} ===South Korea=== Korea was a Japanese colony from 1910-1945, and many Korean men were drafted into the Japanese military. The Japanese had subjected Korea to a brutal occupation, in which the Korean language and culture were vigorously suppressed, and numerous Koreans were subject to live human experimentations without anaesthetic. Perhaps most notoriously, many Korean women were forced to become "comfort women"; sex slaves in Japanese military brothels. * {{listing | name=War & Women's Human Rights Museum | url=https://womenandwarmuseum.net | lat=37.5601 | long=126.9148 | content=South Korea's main museum dedicated to the memory of the "comfort women". }} ===Taiwan=== Taiwan was a Japanese colony from the end of the first Sino-Japanese war in 1895 until 1945, and many Taiwanese were enlisted into the Japanese military. Unlike in other Asian countries, the Taiwanese generally have positive views of Japanese colonial rule, and regard its legacy as an integral part of their national and cultural identity, though there are exceptions. Nevertheless, massacres of both ethnic Chinese and Aboriginal people occurred throughout the occupation. Although not as well-known as their Korean counterparts, numerous Taiwanese women were also forced to serve as "comfort women". The last Japanese holdout to be found alive was Attun Palalin, better known by his Japanese name Teruo Nakamura, an [[Indigenous Taiwanese culture|indigenous Taiwanese]] of Amis ethnicity who was enlisted as a private into one of the Japanese military's colonial units. He was repatriated to Taiwan following his discovery in 1974 on the island of [[Morotai]], [[Indonesia]], and died of lung cancer in 1979. * {{listing | name=Ama Museum | alt=阿嬤家-和平與女性人權館 | url=https://www.amamuseum.org.tw/en | email= | address= | lat=25.0645 | long=121.5181 | directions=[[Taipei/Old Taipei|Old Taipei]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ama Museum | wikidata=Q24837610 | content=Museum dedicated to the memory of the Taiwanese women who were forced to serve as "comfort women" in Japanese military brothels. }} * {{listing | name=Jinguashi | alt=金瓜石 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Ruifang|Ruifang, New Taipei]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-18 | content=A small village which is near the Gold Ecological Park and the Jinguashi Mine, which is one of the largest gold mines in the world. From 1942 to 1945, the area was the location of the Kinkaseki POW Camp, where over 1,100 Allied prisoners of war were held captive and forced to work in the mines. There is a small memorial at the site of the POW camp. In the area is also the ruins of a Shinto shrine that was built by the Japanese. | wikipedia=Jinguashi | wikidata=Q5365867 }} * {{listing | name=National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine | alt=國民革命忠烈祠 | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.078406 | long=121.533043 | directions=[[Taipei/Zhongshan|Zhongshan District, Taipei]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine | wikidata=Q5956488 | content=Temple memorializing those who gave their lives for the Republic of China (ROC) during its tenure on mainland China including during the Second Sino-Japanese War. There is a changing of the guard ceremony every hour, on the hour from 09:00 to 17:00, which involves an impressive and highly synchronized rifle-twirling display by soldiers from the Taiwanese military. }} ===United States=== * {{listing | name=Pearl Harbor | lat=21.365 | long=-157.95 | content=Site of the bombing in [[Honolulu/Western|Western Honolulu]] that caused the [[United States]] to enter the war. }} * {{listing | name=The National WWII Museum | alt= | url=https://www.nationalww2museum.org | email= | address=[[New Orleans]] | lat=29.943139 | long=-90.07035 | directions= | phone=+1 504 528 1944 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The National WWII Museum | wikidata= | content=Museum commemorating the American war effort in both theatres of World War II, with interactive displays that aim to re-create the battlefield experience for visitors.}} [[File:MacArthur Memorial.jpg|thumb|The MacArthur Memorial]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=MacArthur Memorial | alt= | url=http://www.macarthurmemorial.org | email= | address=198 Bank St; Norfolk, Virginia | lat=36.847701 | long=-76.28862 | directions= | phone=+1-757-441-2965 | tollfree= | fax=+1-757-441-5389 | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM; Su 11AM-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=MacArthur Memorial | wikidata=Q22073406 | lastedit=2019-04-02 | content=Museum dedicated to the life of Douglas MacArthur, the general who led U.S. forces to victory over the Japanese in the Philippines, and was appointed Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces. His grave is located within the museum. MacArthur is one of the few non-presidents to have been granted a U.S. state funeral. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial | alt= | url=http://www.nps.gov/poch/ | email= | address= | lat=38.0575 | long=-122.029722 | directions= | phone=+1 925 228-8860 ext 6520 (reservations) | tollfree= | hours=Tours available Th-Sa at 12:45PM (allow 1½ hours). Not all dates and times may be available. No public access Su-We | price= | wikipedia=Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial | image=Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial POCH 0011.jpg | wikidata=Q7230541 | lastedit=2019-04-06 | content=This memorial honors 320 individuals (including 200 young African American men) who were killed in a munitions accident during World War II while loading munitions and bombs onto ships bound for the Pacific Rim. Following the explosion many of the enlisted men refused to work, resulting in the Navy's largest mutiny trial and eventually helping to push the US Armed Forces to desegregate. The memorial is located on an active military base and as a result '''reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance''' and '''all visitors must be US citizens or permanent residents'''. Reservations can be made by calling or via an [http://www.nps.gov/poch/planyourvisit/permits-and-reservations.htm online reservation form]. All visitors are shuttled to the memorial from John Muir National Historic Site in nearby [[Martinez (California)|Martinez]]. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Aleutian World War II National Historic Area | alt= | url=http://nps.gov/aleu/ | email= | address= | lat=53.89494 | long=-166.53967 | directions=Visitor Center located on the apron of the Dutch Harbor airport | phone=+1 907 581-1276 | tollfree= | hours=Year round, but May-October offer the best access | price=Free | lastedit=2019-04-06 | content=This site is the remains of one of four WWII era forts constructed to defend Dutch Harbor against a potential Japanese attack. The visitor center is free, however, a Land Use Permit must be obtained to visit the historic site on Mount Ballyhoo. }} [[File:Iwo_Jima_Memorial_5.JPG|thumb|Marine Corps War Memorial]] * The {{marker|type=listing|name=US Marine Corps Memorial|lat=38.890432|long=-77.069714}} at [[Arlington (Virginia)|Arlington]], Virginia, depicts the famous scene of the raising of the (American) flag on [[Ogasawara Islands|Iwo Jima]], whose history is told by the movie ''Flags of our Fathers'' directed by Clint Eastwood. One of the soldiers involved, Ira Hayes, is commemorated in a fine song by Johnny Cash. * {{listing | type=listing | name=US National Museum of the Pacific War | alt= | url=http://www.pacificwarmuseum.org | email= | address= | lat=30.2719 | long=-98.8653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Museum of the Pacific War | wikidata=Q6974516 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=In [[Fredericksburg (Texas)]], home town of Admiral Chester Nimitz who commanded US forces in part of the Pacific, this is a large museum complex with many exhibits. }} * {{listing | name=Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=http://www.intrepidmuseum.org/ | email= | address=[[Manhattan/Theater District|Theater District]], [[New York City]] | lat=40.764722 | long=-74.000833 | directions= | phone=+1 212 245-0072 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Apr-Sep: M-F 10AM-5PM, Sa Su 10AM-6PM; Oct-Mar: Tu-Su 10AM-5PM | price=$16.50 adult | wikipedia=Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum | image=Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum, Manhattan.jpg | wikidata=Q952270 | content=The aircraft carrier ''USS Intrepid'' (CV-11), which had participated in World War II, is docked here and has been converted to a museum ship. The carrier was hit by numerous kamikaze attacks in the latter stages of the war, and there are now several interactive displays commemorating the casualties of the kamikaze attacks. }} * {{listing | name=Arlington National Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/ | email= | address=[[Arlington (Virginia|Arlington]], [[Virginia]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q216344 | content=The main military cemetery of the United States, home to the graves of numerous soldiers who died fighting in various wars including both world wars.}} A number of sites in the US commemorate the internment of Japanese-Americans during the war. * {{listing | name=Manzanar Internment Camp | alt= | url=http://www.nps.gov/manz/index.htm | email= | address=[[Independence (California)|Independence]], [[California]] | lat=36.728333 | long=-118.154444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Manzanar | image=Manzanar Tower (6713406239).jpg | wikidata=Q985484 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=The largest internment camp in the United States where approximately 110,000 Japanese-Americans and Japanese nationals living in the United States during the war were forced to live after being ordered to leave their homes. This museum contains information about the camp, the experiences of those who were forced to live here, and life after the war. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=WWII Japanese American Internment Museum | alt= | url=http://rohwer.astate.edu/plan-your-visit/museum/ | email= | address=McGehee, Arkansas (near [[Lake Village (Arkansas)|Lake Village]]) | lat=33.6283 | long=-91.3951 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Japanese American Internment Museum | wikidata=Q16849571 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=A former internment camp turned into a museum to educate people about the lives of Japanese-Americans at the Rohwer Relocation Center. It also includes information about the Jerome Japanese American Relocation Center that was built nearby in Jerome. Because this museum covers both, there is no museum in Jerome. The Jerome site only features a small monument in rememberance of its internnment camp. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Topaz Museum | alt= | url=http://www.topazmuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=39.414397 | long=-112.772732 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Topaz War Relocation Center | wikidata=Q7824771 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=The Topaz Relocation Center (internment camp) housed over 11,000 Japanese-Americans. Because people were moved here before it was finished, internees were actually hired to build the wire fences to pen themselves in. }} * {{listing | name=Tule Lake Segregation Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/tule/ | email= | address= | lat=41.889444 | long=-121.374722 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tule Lake Unit, World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument | image=Tule Lake camp main.jpg | wikidata=Q5944942 | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=Tule Lake was another internment camp, and the one to house Japanese-Americans that the American government regarded as particularly "dangerous" to segregate them from American society and eventually deport some of them. }} * {{listing | name=Minidoka National Historic Site | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/miin/index.htm | email= | address=near [[Twin Falls]], Idaho | lat=42.679 | long=-114.244 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q927150 | lastedit=2021-10-19 | content=Most of the camp's buildings were removed after the war and can be found throughout the Magic Valley region. However, the site has remains of the guard entry station, waiting room, and rock gardens as well as a reconstructed guard tower. }} * {{listing | name=Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial | alt= | url=http://bijaema.org/ | email= | address=[[Bainbridge Island]], Washington | lat=47.6153 | long=-122.51 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4848541 | lastedit=2021-10-19 | content= }} ==Respect== While few living people remember the war, the countries involved have not always found reconciliation. In particular, the relationships between Japan and its neighbors China and South Korea are still tense today. Outside Japan and Taiwan, you should avoid displaying the Rising Sun Flag in East and Southeast Asia, as that would be the equivalent of displaying the Nazi flag in the West. ==See also== * [[World War II in China]] * [[World War II in Europe]] * [[World War II in Africa]] * [[Japanese colonial empire]] * [[World War I]] * [[Holocaust remembrance]] * [[Industrialization of the United States]] for non-military US history of the 1930s and 40s * [[Long March]] * [[Nuclear tourism]] {{PartOfTopic|World War II}} {{guidetopic}} 1mytfha182nbbtusqdjr592hkuzhovm 5091365 5091360 2025-07-11T11:12:05Z 廣九直通車 1666899 /* India */ more info. on Imphal, which eventually became the Japanese metonym of SNAFU 5091365 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Wikivoyage banner Bombardment of Kamaishi.jpg|caption=The bombardment of Kamaishi, July 1945|ftt=yes}} The '''Pacific War''' was a theatre of World War II including [[East Asia]], [[Southeast Asia]] and [[Oceania]], separate from [[World War II in Europe]]. Western accounts generally consider the war to have started with the [[Pearl Harbor]] attack of December 1941. Chinese accounts date it from Japan's invasion of the Chinese heartland in July 1937 (see [[World War II in China]]) or even their expansion into [[Manchuria]] in 1931. The war ended with Japanese surrender in August 1945; an important factor was that the first, and so far the only, atomic bombs used in warfare were detonated over [[Hiroshima]] and [[Nagasaki]]. {| style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto; text-align:center;" | Theatres of World War II:<br>'''[[World War II in Europe|Europe]] • [[World War II in Africa|Africa]] • [[World War II in China|China]] • Pacific''' |} To a great extent the 1937-1945 Second Sino-Japanese War was part of the Pacific Theatre, the overall war of many nations against Imperial Japan. In some ways, though, it was unique; it started before the more general war, was a land and air war rather than largely naval and island-hopping, and was fought almost entirely by the Chinese themselves without much involvement of their allies. Also, all its battlegrounds and memorials are in China. Wikivoyage therefore has a separate [[World War II in China]] article. ==Understand== {{seealso|Japanese colonial empire}} [[Japan]] underwent major changes starting with the American Commodore Matthew Perry's "gunboat diplomacy" visit in 1853 which forced the government to sign a number of humiliating and disadvantageous treaties with Western powers. Japan reacted to this shock by quickly "modernizing" along Western lines, copying legal and institutional approaches and sending young Japanese to universities in Europe and the United States to bring home "Western knowledge". After that, Japan quickly became established as the first non-Western industrialized country and a major power in East Asia. [[File:Mutsuhito-Emperor-Meiji-1873.png|thumb|Emperor Meiji ruled 1868 to 1912<br/>Note the Western-style clothing and sword]] The Meiji Restoration of 1868 broke the power of the shoguns who had been the real rulers for centuries (albeit always acting in the Emperor's name) and restored the Emperor to a central role. However, while the Emperor did regain political power and prestige, a "Meiji oligarchy" around him ran most of the daily affairs of state. Japan began to expand in the late 19th century, annexing [[Okinawa]] in 1879, then defeating China in the 1894-95 First Sino-Japanese War, annexing [[Taiwan]] and the [[Liaoning|Liaodong Peninsula]], and forcing China to give up its influence over its vassal state [[Korea]]. In the same period, the US became more active in the Pacific, taking over the [[Philippines]] in 1898 after a war with Spain, and annexing [[Hawaii]] and [[Guam]]. Various European powers also expanded their holdings or influence in the region. The British, aiming to counter Russian influence, helped both China and Japan to build modern navies in the late 19th century. The French sank most of the Chinese fleet at the [[Mawei#See|battle of Fuzhou]] in 1884, but the Japanese fleet did considerably better. Japan won a war against the [[Russian Empire]] in 1905, the first time in centuries that an Asian nation had won a war against a country mostly considered "Western". Indeed Russian Tsar Nicholas II had emphasized his "defender of European Christendom" image in racist war propaganda. Once the Russians were out of their way, Japan annexed Korea outright in 1910. Japan, with the largest navy in the Pacific, was part of the victorious Allies during [[World War I]], and was able to conquer the German colonies in the area. It would thus gain more territory from the defeated Central Powers following the end of that war in 1918, including the former German concessions in [[Shandong]], China. Such actions by Japan would later result in the May Fourth Movement, which is further described in [[Chinese revolutions#Understand|our article on early 20th century Chinese history]]. There was a faction fight among the Japanese high command in the late 1930s; they all agreed that expanding the empire was a fine idea, but how? Should they: * "Strike North", expand into [[Mongolia]] and [[Siberia]] and fight only the [[Soviet Union]]? * "Strike South" fighting the US, the [[British Empire]], and other colonial powers &mdash; the French, Dutch and Portuguese? The Imperial Way Faction (皇道派), which supported an invasion of the Soviet Union, even tried a coup (the February 26 Incident) in 1936, but that failed. Striking north was tried, but in 1939 the [[Soviet Union|Soviets]] gave Japanese forces a thorough thrashing at the [[Choibalsan#The_battle_of_Khalkhin_Gol|Battle of Khalkhin Gol]] in Mongolia. After that, Japan concentrated on striking south; arguably, this was a catastrophic blunder. Among other effects, it allowed the Soviet Union to re-deploy their battle-hardened Siberian troops to the European front, which helped turn the tide of that war eventually leading to the Allied victory in Europe. It also led directly to the attack on [[Pearl Harbor]] and war with all the nations already allied against Germany; this ended badly for Japan. ===China=== {{main|World War II in China}} Japan acquired [[Taiwan]] and some territory in [[Manchuria]] after winning the First Sino-Japanese War in 1895. They expanded their influence there when they defeated the Russians in 1905; in particular they took over administration of the profitable Russian-built railway. After [[World War I]] they got the former [[Chinese_provinces_and_regions#Treaty_ports_and_concessions|German concessions]] in [[Shandong]]. Then in 1931 they staged the [[Shenyang|Mukden]] Incident; Japanese troops bombed part of the railway, the attack was blamed on Chinese forces, and that gave Japan a pretext to occupy Manchuria, setting up a puppet state called Manchukuo. Japan invaded central [[China]] in 1937 and soon managed to occupy much of eastern China, including the then-capital [[Nanjing]]. This led to eight years of continuous fighting, until the Japanese surrender in 1945; see [[World War II in China]]. Roughly half of the total Japanese ground forces were tied down in China throughout the war, including troops they had planned to use elsewhere. All the Allied land victories in the Pacific War were partly due to Chinese tenacity. American, British and Dutch sanctions were imposed on Japan after the invasion of China; those, in particular restrictions on oil imports, were the main reason Japan gave for going to war with those nations. The Western powers also sent supplies to China via the [[Burma Road]]. The Soviet Union and America also sent volunteer air force units to support China, with the American one based in [[Yunnan]] known as the "Flying Tigers". The Chinese resistance against Japanese rule was also financially supported by many overseas Chinese. === Japan joins the world war === Meanwhile, [[World War II in Europe]] began with the German invasion of Poland in September 1939, and became more complex when Germany invaded the Soviet Union in June 1941. [[File:USS West Virginia2.jpg|thumb|USS West Virginia on fire in Pearl Harbor during the Japanese attack]] {{quote|Yesterday, December 7th, 1941 — a date which will live in infamy — the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.|author=US President Franklin D. Roosevelt, December 8, 1941}} The conflict became global in December 1941, when [[Japan]] attacked [[Pearl Harbor]], other US bases in the Pacific, the [[Philippines]], and British possessions such as [[Hong Kong]], [[Myanmar|Burma]] and [[Malaya]]. The [[United States]] and the entire British Empire immediately declared war on Japan, and Germany declared war on the US. The [[Soviet Union]] did not declare war on Japan until after the end of the war in Europe, in May 1945. After the Japanese surrender, it reclaimed the territories that the Russian Empire had lost to Japan in the 1904-05 Russo-Japanese War, and also took the [[Kuril Islands]], which remain disputed between Russia and Japan to this day. === Japanese conquests === Early in the war, Japan invaded and occupied much of [[Southeast Asia]] and parts of [[Oceania]]; they even managed to bomb the city of [[Darwin]] in [[Australia]]. By the middle of 1943, virtually all of Southeast Asia had been conquered by Japan, with the colonial powers of the [[United Kingdom]], [[France]], the [[Netherlands]], [[Portugal]] and the United States all having suffered humiliating defeats at the hands of the Japanese. [[File:Civilian War Memorial, Singapore - 20140802.jpg|thumb|The Civilian War Memorial in Singapore. Japanese occupying forces massacred over ten thousand civilians, mostly ethnic Chinese.]] The Japanese took effective control of some areas without fighting. The Vichy government in France, essentially a German puppet regime, ordered French administrators in French Indochina (now [[Vietnam]], [[Laos]] and [[Cambodia]]) to collaborate with Japan, and most did. [[Thailand]], the only country in Southeast Asia not colonized by Western powers, remained nominally independent but was forced to dance to the Japanese tune. Japan was able to establish military bases in these countries and to freely move troops and supplies through them. Japanese propaganda claimed they were driving out Western imperialists, leading an "Asia for Asians" movement, and this got them some support; countries such as [[India]] had both pro-Japanese and pro-Allied movements. Subhas Chandra Bose, the leader of the pro-Japanese Indian National Army (INA), is widely regarded as a national hero in India. In many areas, this was also divided along ethnic lines; in Malaya, at least initially, the Japanese were welcomed by many ethnic Malays and Indians, but opposed by most ethnic Chinese. In China both the Kuomintang and the Communists opposed Japan, but they were sometimes more interested in fighting each other. Everywhere, the local political movements were jockeying for control and trying to use the war to gain independence and/or domestic political influence for the time after the war. Japanese rule in the occupied territories was brutal, and by the end of the war, the Japanese had lost the support of much of the local population who initially supported them (e.g. Burmese independence hero Aung San). In the occupied areas, Japanese troops engaged in mass rapes, massacres and pillaging, with the [[Nanjing#Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall|Nanjing Massacre]] of 1937-38 being the most notorious. Many women from China, Korea and other occupied areas were forced to serve as "comfort women", sex slaves in Japanese military brothels. The Japanese also performed inhumane experiments on captive locals from the occupied territories, the most famous being Unit 731 in Manchuria (listed below), though other similar units existed throughout the occupied territories. They also treated prisoners of war very badly; perhaps the most famous incidents were the "[[Bataan]] death march" and the use of POWs as slave labour for the [[Kanchanaburi|Bridge on the River Kwai]], but there were many others. As retribution for their role in resisting Japanese rule in China, the ethnic Chinese &mdash; both in China and in Southeast Asia &mdash; were singled out for the harshest treatment; in all the occupied territories, they were rounded up for "screening" by the Japanese, and the unfortunate ones who were identified (often arbitrarily) as anti-Japanese were brought to remote locations and shot. === The tide turns === The Japanese suffered two important naval defeats at the hands of the Americans in mid-1942, the Battle of the Coral Sea (northeast of Australia) in May and the Battle of [[Midway Islands|Midway]] (northwest of Hawaii) in June. [[File:Wounded Australian soldier led by a Papuan orderly at Buna.jpg|thumb|A Papuan leading a wounded Australian soldier during the Kokoda campaign]] The Coral Sea was tactically close to a draw &mdash; each side lost one carrier and many aircraft &mdash; but can be counted as a US strategic victory, since the planned Japanese landings to take [[Port Moresby]] in New Guinea were prevented. Midway was a clear US victory, with many Japanese carriers sunk. Both battles killed a number of elite Japanese naval aviators, a catastrophe for Japanese forces. These were the first naval battles in history fought mainly by aircraft carriers which never came within sight of each other. The Americans were intercepting Japanese communication, and had broken many Japanese codes, which was an advantage in both battles. At Midway they surprised the Japanese by destroying some carriers when the planes were away on a bombing raid. Two land campaigns, both starting in mid-1942 and lasting until early 1943, also went badly for Japan. In what is now [[Papua New Guinea]], the ANZACs (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps) gave them their first defeat on land at [[Milne Bay]] then, in a hard-fought campaign, drove them back along the [[Kokoda Track]]. Meanwhile the Americans took the island of [[Guadalcanal]] after a prolonged and intense fight, allowing them to defend their supply and communication lines to Australia and New Zealand, and to create a forward base for island-hopping toward Japan. These Allied victories marked the turning point in the Pacific War. After that the ANZACs continued the New Guinea campaign and invaded the [[Solomon Islands]], while the British re-took Burma with the help of the Chinese, and reopened the [[Burma Road]] to supply Chinese forces. The Japanese had spread their forces too thinly in China, and the Chinese were able to counterattack and reclaim some of the occupied territories. The Americans re-took the Philippines and captured a series of islands across the Pacific, including some like [[Guam]] and [[Wake Island]] that Japan had taken from them in the first months of the war. At sea, Japan was defeated repeatedly by the Americans, with some Commonwealth help. The Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944 was the largest naval battle of the war; it took place during the invasion of the [[Philippines]], and was a major Allied victory. === End of the war === When the Americans took the [[Mariana Islands]] (including [[Saipan]] and [[Guam]]) in 1944, the ground fighting was intense with heavy casualties on both sides. However the "Great Marianas Turkey Shoot" saw over 550 Japanese aircraft destroyed, while America only lost about 120 aircraft. This was a disaster for the Japanese, who were already running short of both planes and pilots. Air bases in the Marianas allowed the US to directly attack Japan with its long-range B-29 bombers; there were devastating fire bombing raids on many Japanese cities, including a huge one against [[Tokyo]]. The atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki by B-29s from [[Tinian]]. In early 1945 the US won fierce battles in [[Okinawa]] and [[Ogasawara Islands|Iwo Jima]] and occupied those islands, putting them in position to attack the Japanese home islands with shorter-range aircraft or to invade. Having by then won the naval part of the war, they also bombarded Japanese cities with their ships. Japan tried desperation tactics such as sending ''kamikaze'' (translates as "godly wind", named after typhoons that sank the invading [[Mongol Empire|Mongol]] fleet in the 13th century) pilots on suicide missions to crash planes full of explosives into American ships, but even that did not make a large difference. The invasion never took place. The Americans dropped the first (and to date only) atomic bombs to be used in actual combat on [[Hiroshima]] on 6 August 1945, followed by [[Nagasaki]] on 9 August 1945; on the same day the Soviet Union invaded Manchuria. Japan surrendered unconditionally to the Allies on 15 August 1945, bringing World War II to an end. ===Aftermath=== Following the surrender, Japan was occupied by the Americans and forced to give up all its colonies. While the Emperor remained on his throne, many political and military leaders were indicted in the ''International Military Tribunal for the Far East'', and many were sentenced to death. [[File:Surrender of Japan - USS Missouri (restored).jpg|thumb|Japanese officials on board the USS Missouri during the surrender ceremonies on 2 September 1945]] The Americans also imposed a new pacifist constitution on Japan, forbidding it from establishing a military, and turning it into a democratic constitutional monarchy. However, when the [[Cold War]] began, the American occupiers established the National Police Reserve, a paramilitary organization that would later develop into the Japan Self-Defense Forces, the ''de facto'' military of the country. Taiwan and Manchuria were returned to China, though the Chinese Civil War would resume following the Japanese surrender, eventually resulting in victory for the Communists in the mainland, and the Nationalists being forced to retreat to Taiwan, which continues to be governed separately to this day. Korea regained its independence, but would be split into communist [[North Korea]] and capitalist [[South Korea]], leading up to the [[Korean War]]. The Americans would eventually leave mainland Japan in 1952, though the American military continues to maintain several bases in different parts of the country. Okinawa was only returned to Japan in 1972, though the United States continues to maintain a strong military presence there. {{quote|We were supposed [...] to panic when the bombs fell, but we found they panicked more than we did. So it was no longer the old relationship.|author=Lee Kuan Yew|source=commenting on the British during World War II.}} The Western colonial powers also got their colonies back, but the war had galvanised many nationalist movements, which were to come of age in the years to come and eventually lead to the independence of the colonies. The first was the [[Philippines]], where American rule ended in 1946; the largest was the end of the [[British Raj]] in 1947, which became the modern countries of [[India]], [[Pakistan]] and later [[Bangladesh]]. See also [[Indian independence movement]]. The [[Indochina Wars]] were a brutal example of lingering national and ideological conflict in Asia. [[Hong Kong]] and [[Macau]] would eventually be given back to China in the 1990s but part of the agreement between China and the former colonial powers stipulates a "one country two systems" arrangement that grant them autonomy. A few Japanese soldiers, isolated in various jungles, did not know or resisted the orders to surrender and fought on. The last two surrendered in 1974, one on the Philippine island of [[Lubang]] and the other on Indonesia's [[Morotai Island]]. Two Japanese soldiers would join communist guerrillas in Malaya and Thailand after the end of the war, and only surrendered in 1989 after the end of the communist insurgency. ==Sites== Many places that were sites of battles, atrocities or other wartime activities can be visited. There are also many museums with exhibits wholly or partly related to this war. {{Mapframe|25|-10|zoom=1|layer=W|height=300|width=500}} ===Australia=== {{seealso|Military museums and sites in Australia}} Australia and New Zealand declared war on Germany in 1939 shortly after the UK did, and fought for the Allies in Europe and [[World War II in Africa|North Africa]]. As the Japanese attacked American and British territory in the Pacific, most of these troops were relocated to the Pacific theatre. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Adelaide River War Cemetery | alt= | url=http://www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2023510/ADELAIDE%20RIVER%20WAR%20CEMETERY | email= | address=| lat=-13.23116 | long=131.11444 | directions=[[Adelaide River]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q38160721 | lastedit=2017-08-09 | content=The main cemetery for military personnel and civilians killed in northern Australia during the Second World War, including as a result of the dozens of Japanese air raids on Darwin and nearby airfields as well as the little known bombings in Coomalie Creek, Adelaide River and Litchfield National Park. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Australian War Memorial | alt= | url=https://www.awm.gov.au/ | email= | address=[[Canberra/North Canberra|North Canberra]] | lat=-35.280500 | long=149.149100 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Australian War Memorial | wikidata=Q782783 | content=Located in [[Canberra]], the memorial also includes a military museum dedicated to the memory of Australian soldiers who fought in various wars including both world wars. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Darwin Military Museum | alt= | url=http://www.darwinmilitarymuseum.com.au | email= | address= | lat=-12.407517 | long=130.819769 | directions=[[Darwin]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Darwin Military Museum | wikidata=Q5226003 | content=Darwin was an important staging point for Australian and American forces during the war, and would be the only Australian city that was subject to Japanese bombing raids. The bombings of Darwin are the only post-colonial acts of war against Australia. The museum houses exhibits about the bombing of Darwin. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=MacArthur Museum | alt= | url=http://www.mmb.org.au/ | email= | address= | lat=-27.46855 | long=153.02742 | directions=[[Brisbane]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This museum covers the career of American General Douglas MacArthur, who commanded the Allied forces in the South West Pacific from Brisbane between 1942 and 1944 from what are now the Museum's premises, as well as Brisbane's experiences in World War II.}} * {{listing | name=[[Broome]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q606294 | lastedit=2022-02-12 | content=Broome was attacked by the Japanese on 3 March 1942 by fighter planes. Although Broome was no more than an insignificant tiny pearling port, it was a major stopover point for refuelling when going from modern day Indonesia to the other cities of Australia. Learn more about the attack at the Broome Historical Museum. }} * {{listing | name=Wagga Wagga War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/4003836/wagga-wagga-war-cemetery/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Wagga Wagga]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7959532 | lastedit=2022-08-30 | content=Perhaps Australia's most famous war cemetery, home to the graves of several Australian soldiers who died fighting in World War II. }} ===Canada=== Canadian troops were mostly active in the European theatre, though they also fought in the Battle of Hong Kong as part of the British forces. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Canadian War Museum | alt= | url=https://www.warmuseum.ca/ | email= | address=[[Ottawa]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Canadian War Museum | wikidata=Q1032442 | lastedit=2021-08-23 | content=Canada's main military history museum, with displays commemorating the efforts of Canadian troops in various wars and peacekeeping missions, including both world wars. }} ===China=== [[File:AntijapaneseWarMemorialMuseum.jpg|thumb|Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression]] For sites in Mainland China, see '''[[World War II in China]].''' For historical reasons, sites in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan are listed separately on this page. ''This does not represent an endorsement of any political position.'' ===Hong Kong=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sai Wan War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2000320/SAI%20WAN%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Hong Kong/Eastern District|Chai Wan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Labuan War Cemetery | wikidata=Q2148037 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Canadian, Indian and local Chinese soldiers who died in the Battle of Hong Kong. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sha Tau Kok Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall | alt=沙頭角抗戰紀念館 | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.53656 | long=114.20888 | directions=[[Hong Kong/New Territories|Sha Tau Kok]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-06 | content=Opened in September 2022, this is the first comprehensive museum about the Second World War in Hong Kong. The museum is at the former home of the Luo Family, which was the first base of operations for Communist-led guerrilla fighters from the Mainland who came across the border to help resist the Japanese. }} ===India=== India was for the most part spared the horrors of World War II, though Indian troops were used by the British military for their war efforts elsewhere, and eastern India was used as a staging point for Allied troops fighting in Burma. The Japanese attempted to invade India through [[Imphal]] and [[Kohima]] in 1944 from Japanese-occupied Burma, with help from the Indian National Army (INA), a pro-Japanese Indian independence movement. However, thanks to poor planning, command and logistics, the combined British and Indian forces were successful in repelling the Japanese attacks. Japanese forces ultimately retreated by July 1944, and suffered from malnutrition and tropical diseases on their way. World War II would also be a major cause of the [[Bengal]] Famine in 1943, as the British diverted nearly all the food to support their war effort in Europe and left next to nothing for the Bengalis. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Imphal War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2064600/IMPHAL%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Imphal]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Imphal War Cemetery | wikidata=Q19840225 | content=Commonwealth war cemetery with the graves of British and Indian soldiers who died in the Battle of Imphal. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kohima War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2058100/kohima-war-cemetery/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Kohima]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kohima War Cemetery | wikidata=Q19841008 | content=Commonwealth war cemetery with the graves of British and Indian soldiers who died in the Battle of Kohima. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Chinese Cemetery, Ramgarh | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=23.609910930907077 | long=85.4879024693129 | directions=[[Jharkhand]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | content=Chinese war cemetery built by the Nationalists, with the graves of hundreds of Chinese soldiers who died fighting in the Burma Campaign, most of them unidentified. }} ===Japan=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Okinawa Peace Park and Himeyuri Monument | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=26.09661 | long=127.725645 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-08-30 | content=The site of one of the most brutal and bloody battles of the war, [[Okinawa]] island has many war remnants and memorials. Outside of Japan, Okinawa is often viewed as the first battle on Japanese soil. However, like the other Pacific Islands, Okinawa was also colonized territory so the local population was not fully trusted by the Japanese and often treated as expendable. With the Americans being obvious enemies and the Japanese not being complete allies, the question on many Okinawans' minds was not "How am I going to survive?" but "How do I want to die?". The museums here show the war from a uniquely Okinawan perspective, including life for citizens, students and military. It also depicts well how they were mistreated by both the Japanese and the Americans during and after the war. The Peace Park and the Himeyuri Monument in [[Itoman]] are the best places to learn about the battle, but remnants and reminders of the war can be found throughout the island. }} [[File:Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima, larger - edit1.jpg|thumb|American soldiers raising the flag on Iwo Jima]] *{{listing | type=listing | name=[[Ogasawara Islands|Iwo Jima]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.783333 | long=141.316667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Iwo Jima | wikidata=Q201633 | content=Another group of islands close to Japan, scene of some extremely fierce fighting. An image of victorious US Marines raising the Stars and Stripes there is quite famous. [http://www.miltours.com/ US Military Tours] has exclusive rights to the island, and only U.S. citizens are eligible to visit. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots | alt= | url=http://www.chiran-tokkou.jp/english/ | email= | address= | lat=31.363333 | long=130.434444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots | wikidata=Q4458048 | lastedit=2016-01-10 | content=As the war approached the home islands, the desperate Japanese began sending out young men to fly aircraft packed with explosives into American ships. The museum is located in [[Chiran]] over the former spot where the ''tokko'' pilots (known abroad as kamikaze pilots) were trained and flew from. The museum contains information about the pilots, artifacts and letters from them, and recovered kamikaze planes. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Hiroshima Peace Park and Memorial Museum | alt= | url=http://www.pcf.city.hiroshima.jp/virtual/VirtualMuseum_e/tour_e/tour_fra_e.html | email= | address= | lat=34.392728 | long=132.452374 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park | wikidata=Q1207208 | lastedit=2015-08-30 | content=[[Hiroshima]] was the first place in the world to be attacked with an atomic bomb. The museum shows how devastating the bomb was to the city and the effects it had on the people from the immediate aftermath to the present day. }} * {{listing | name=Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Memorial Hall | alt= | url=http://www1.city.nagasaki.nagasaki.jp/na-bomb/museum/museume01.html {{dead link|December 2020}} | email= | address= | lat=32.772778 | long=129.865 | directions=[[Nagasaki]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum | wikidata=Q1099077 | lastedit=2015-08-30 | content=Museums that are on the site where the atomic bomb was dropped on August 9, 1945. The Nagasaki bombing led to Japanese surrender and is also noted as the last place to have an atomic bomb dropped on it. }} * {{listing | name=Oka Masaharu Memorial Nagasaki Peace Museum | alt=岡まさはる記念長崎平和資料館 | url=https://www.okakinen.jp/ | email= | address= | lat=32.75523 | long=129.87216 | directions=[[Nagasaki]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=One of the very few places in Japan where the war crimes of the Japanese army during the Second World War are documented. Another focus of the exhibition lies on the foreign victims of the atomic bomb and their struggle for recognition and compensation. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Peace Osaka | alt=大阪国際平和センター | url=http://peace-osaka.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat=34.681667 | long=135.53 | directions=[[Osaka/Osaka_castle|Osaka Castle area, Osaka]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Osaka International Peace Center | image=Peace-osaka.jpg | wikidata=Q7105564 | content=A museum dedicated to the promotion of peace through displays of war. Because it is an Osaka museum, it largely focuses on the effects of American aerial bombings on Osaka between December 1944 and August 1945. In the past, the museum also had exhibitions depicting the atrocities committed by Japan against China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Sadly, however, those exhibitions were permanently removed in 2015 in response to pressure from conservative political groups. }} * {{listing | name=Yasukuni Shrine | alt=靖國神社 Yasukuni-jinja | url=http://www.yasukuni.or.jp/english/ | email= | address= | lat=35.694167 | long=139.743056 | directions=[[Tokyo/Chiyoda|Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Yasukuni Shrine | image=Yasukuni Jinja 7 032.jpg | wikidata=Q242803 | content=A controversial shrine to Japan's war dead, housing the souls of some 2.5 million people killed in Japan's wars &mdash; including numerous Taiwanese and Koreans, and controversially, convicted war criminals executed by the Allies. Often visited by Japanese and Taiwanese politicians, drawing sharp criticisms from neighbours China and South Korea in the process. If you choose to visit, consider keeping it a secret from your Chinese or Korean friends. Also on the grounds of the shrine is the '''Yūshūkan War Memorial Museum''', which displays much World War II paraphernalia and presents a rather one-sided (and allegedly revisionist) account of World War II. }} ===Mongolia=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Khalkhin Gol]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=47.730278 | long=118.59 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Battles of Khalkhin Gol | wikidata=Q188925 | content=Site of a battle in 1939 in which the Soviets demolished a large Japanese force. This turned Japanese thinking away from expansion into [[Mongolia]] and [[Siberia]]; instead they adopted a "strike south" strategy which led directly to Pearl Harbor and their attacks in [[Southeast Asia]]. }} ===Southeast Asia=== ====Brunei==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Brunei-Australia Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=[[Bandar Seri Begawan]] | lat=5.037835056706218 | long=115.07569591085982 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-07-23 | content=Memorial on Muara Beach commemorating the landing site of the Australian soldiers who fought in the Battle of North Borneo to liberate Brunei from Japanese occupation. }} ==== Indonesia ==== * {{listing | name=Ambon War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2015000/ambon-war-cemetery/ | email= | address= | lat=-3.674812 | long=128.191813 | directions=[[Ambon]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Ambon.jpg | lastedit=2022-07-04 | content= The cemetery contains Australian soldiers who died during the Japanese invasion of Ambon and Timor in World War II }} ==== Malaysia ==== * {{listing | name=Bank Kerapu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.13191 | long=102.23549 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q12474498 | lastedit=2019-04-04 | content=There is a small war memorial and museum in the former Bank Kerapu building in [[Kota Bharu]], [[Malaysia]], which served as a secret police station during the Japanese occupation; it might not merit a special trip but is worth visiting if you are in Kota Bharu. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Labuan War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/17000/LABUAN%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Labuan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Labuan War Cemetery | wikidata=Q6467670 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian and Indian soldiers who died in the Borneo campaign. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Penang War Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=5.28147 | long=100.28872 | directions=[[Bayan Lepas]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Located at southeastern tip of Penang, it's a large abandoned military fortress built in the 1930s by the British to protect the southern approaches to the island. The British Royal Engineers and a work force of local labourers blasted and dug into the hill to create a fort with underground military tunnels, an intelligence and logistic centre, halls, offices, ventilation shafts, artillery firing bays, sleeping quarters, cook houses as well as an infirmary. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sandakan Memorial Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=5.88854 | long=118.047183 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sandakan Memorial Park | wikidata=Q2799368 | content=This memorial in the Malaysian city of [[Sandakan]] was built at the site of a former Japanese POW prison camp with funding from the Australian government to commemorate the Allied POWs who lost their lives during the Sandakan Death Marches. Only 6 people out of several thousand survived the march, and only because those 6 managed to escape. Incidentally, all 6 survivors were Australian. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Taiping War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/94500/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Taiping]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Taiping War Cemetery | wikidata=Q7676344 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian, Indian and Malayan soldiers who died in the Malaya Campaign. }} ====Myanmar==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Burma Road]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=23.5 | long=98.9 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Burma Road | wikidata=Q478684 | content=This road ran from Western China into Burma (now [[Myanmar]]) and connected to [[Assam]] in Eastern India as well. It was built by the Chinese in the late 1930s, upgraded by the Americans later, and used throughout the war. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Taukkyan War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/94500/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Taukkyan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Taukkyan War Cemetery | wikidata=Q7688705 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Indian and African soldiers who died in the Burma Campaign. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2007400/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Thanbyuzayat]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery | wikidata=Q19840907 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian, Indian, New Zealander, Canadian and Dutch POWs who died while building the Death Railway in Burma. }} ====Philippines==== [[File:US_Navy_041020-N-0493B-003_Backed_by_a_monument_marking_the_location_of_Gen._Douglas_MacArthur's_return_to_the_Philippines_60_years_ago,_a_Philippine_Marine_Corps_honor_guard_stands_at_attention_during_the_playing_of_Taps.jpg|thumb|MacArthur's landing site]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Corregidor Island]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Corregidor | wikidata=Q928075 | content=Established as an American fort to defend Manila from naval attacks, it fell to the Japanese in 1942, and was liberated in 1945. This is where General MacArthur left and uttered his most famous line "I shall return", a promise he fulfilled in 1944. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Capas]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Capas | wikidata=Q56427 | content=A largely rural municipality housing Camp O'Donnell, an American military camp turned into a POW camp where the infamous Bataan Death March in 1942 ended. Two memorial shrines dedicated to the American and Filipino prisoners of war who suffered and died under the hands of the Japanese are erected here, and two abandoned railroad stations where the prisoners were unloaded have been turned into museums and memorials. The exact number of prisoners on the march is unknown; estimates range from 6,000 to 18,000. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Coron]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12 | long=120.2 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Coron, Palawan | wikidata=Q111414 | content=This town in [[Palawan]] Province has excellent wreck diving; the US Navy sank about a dozen Japanese ships in shallow water nearby in 1944. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.172222 | long=125.012222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park | wikidata=Q18157528 | content=This is where General McArthur landed on his return to the country in 1944; it is in [[Palo]] municipality on [[Leyte Island]], near [[Tacloban]]. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Camp Pangatian | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Raid at Cabanatuan | wikidata=Q705083 | content=A former American military camp turned into a POW camp by the Japanese, it is the site of the raid at Cabanatuan, a major engagement of the liberation of the Philippines in 1945. The camp, now a shrine, is northeast of [[Cabanatuan]] city (then a rural area) in [[Nueva Ecija]] province. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Manila American Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.abmc.gov/Manila | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Manila]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Manila American Cemetery | wikidata=Q12061468 | content=Cemetery where numerous American and Filipino soldiers who were killed during World War II were buried }} ==== Singapore ==== As the headquarters of the British forces in Malaya, there are numerous World War II sites scattered throughout Singapore, including several abandoned pillboxes and coastal gun batteries, as well as numerous beaches where the ethnic Chinese were brought to be shot by the Japanese in the Sook Ching Massacre. We cover a selection of some of the more important sites here. * {{listing | name=Alexandra Hospital | alt= | url=https://www.ah.com.sg/ | email= | address= | lat=1.286444 | long=103.801222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A former British military hospital, and the site of the Alexandra Hospital Massacre on 14-15 February 1942, in which Japanese soldiers massacred the staff and patients despite them having already surrendered. Today, it remains in use as a public hospital, and the original colonial-era hospital building has been preserved and remains in active use. There is also a plaque on the hospital grounds commemorating the victims of the massacre. }} * {{listing | name=The Battlebox | alt= | url=http://www.battlebox.com.sg/ | email= | address= | lat=1.29611 | long=103.846216 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A former British military bunker and command centre which served as the headquarters for the British forces in Malaya during the Malayan Campaign. It was here that Lieutenant-General Arthur E. Percival met with his senior officers and made the decision to surrender to the Japanese. It has been converted to a museum dedicated to the Malayan Campaign, with a re-enactment of how it functioned during the war. }} [[File:Changi Museum, Singapore - www.joyofmuseums.com - external.jpg|thumb|The gates at the Changi Museum]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=Changi Museum | alt= | url=http://www.changimuseum.sg/ | email= | address= | lat=1.3622 | long=103.974 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Changi Museum | wikidata=Q5072000 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=A former POW camp-turned-museum has information about the Japanese occupation of [[Singapore]] and what life was like in the POW camp. It focuses on the general history and conditions as well as containing personal accounts and artifacts donated by former prisoners. It has a replica of the '''Changi Chapel''' that was built by Australian POWs in captivity; the original was dismantled and moved to [[Canberra]] after the war, where it now stands in the Royal Military College, Duntroon. You can also see replicas of the '''Changi murals''', Christian murals that were painted by British POW Stanley Warren while in capitvity; the original murals are located in a military airbase and off limits to the general public. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Civilian War Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q5124736 | lastedit=2020-09-23 | content=Monument commemorating the local civilians who lost their lives during the Japanese occupation. The remains of many unidentified victims are buried under the memorial. }} * {{listing | name=Ford Motor Factory | alt= | url=http://www.nas.gov.sg/formerfordfactory | email= | address= | lat=1.352558 | long=103.769292 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=A former factory of American automobile manufacturer Ford, and the first motor vehicle factory to be opened in Southeast Asia. This is also the site where the British lieutenant-general Arthur E. Percival surrendered unconditionally to Japanese general Tomoyuki Yamashita on 15 February 1942, thus ending the Malayan Campaign. It was also used by the Japanese to produce military vehicles during the occupation. It has now been converted to a museum dedicated to life in Singapore during the Japanese occupation. The boardroom in which the surrender took place has also been reconstructed for viewing. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Fort Siloso | alt= | url=https://www.sentosa.com.sg/en/things-to-do/attractions/fort-siloso/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q4419293 | lastedit=2020-09-22 | content=One of four British forts on what was then the island of Pulau Blakang Mati, today known as Sentosa. It is the only one of the four to have been restored as a tourist attraction, and contains the remnants of some British artillery guns, as well as interactive displays and a re-enactment of the unconditional surrender of the British forces to the Japanese. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kranji War Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-details/2004200/KRANJI%20WAR%20CEMETERY/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kranji War Cemetery | wikidata=Q6436095 | content=Home to the graves of numerous British, Australian, Indian and Malayan soldiers who died in the Malayan Campaign. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Labrador Nature Reserve | alt= | url=https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/labrador-nature-reserve | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q14874451 | lastedit=2020-09-22 | content=The site of numerous British artillery gun emplacements during World War II. Today, you can see the remains of those gun emplacements, numerous pillboxes, and a network of underground tunnels that were used to store ammunition and move them to the gun emplacements. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Lim Bo Seng Memorial | alt= | url=https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/history/memorials/lim-bo-seng-memorial/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=free | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q54321624 | lastedit=2021-07-23 | content=Memorial dedicated to local war hero Lim Bo Seng, who participated in covert operations against the Japanese as part of Force 136, a branch of the British World War II intelligence agency. After being captured by the Japanese, he refused to divulge any information about his comrades despite being tortured, and eventually died of dysentery in prison in June 1944 at the age of 35. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Reflections at Bukit Chandu | alt= | url=https://www.nhb.gov.sg/what-we-do/our-work/preserve-our-stories-treasures-and-places/museums-and-institutions/reflections-at-bukit-chandu | email= | address= | lat=1.27945 | long=103.79407 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Reflections at Bukit Chandu | wikidata=Q7307287 | content=An interpretive centre of the Battle of Pasir Panjang, one of the fiercest battles in the Malayan Campaign that pitted the Malay Regiment (today the Royal Malay Regiment, the most decorated regiment in the Malaysian Army) against the Japanese. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sook Ching Inspection Centre | alt= | url=https://www.roots.gov.sg/places/places-landing/Places/historic-sites/sook-ching-inspection-centre | email= | address= | lat=1.283834 | long=103.846073 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Sook Ching | content=The site where the occupying Japanese conducted their "screening" of the ethnic Chinese in Malaya after rounding them up. The unlucky ones who were identified as anti-Japanese were brought to the beaches and shot. Today, a plaque stands on the site to commemorate the victims of the massacre. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Syonan Jinja | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.344769 | long=103.822533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Syonan Jinja | content=A Shinto shrine built by the occupying Japanese in Singapore (which they re-named Syonan-to) in 1942, located at MacRitchie Reservoir, and destroyed after the Japanese surrender on 15th August 1945. The ruins of the shrine still exist, but are now in the middle of the jungle with no footpaths leading there, making it very hard to find. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Syonan Chureito | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.350892 | long=103.766769 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bukit Batok Memorial | content=A memorial built by Australian POWs to honour the Japanese war dead during World War II, with a smaller memorial behind that to commemorate the Allied war dead. Both memorials were torn down following the Japanese surrender, and today, only the road and stairs leading up to the memorial, as well as two pedestals at the bottom of the stairs, survive. A television transmission tower now occupies the former memorial site. }} ====Thailand==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Death Railway | alt=ทางรถไฟสายมรณะ | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-02-16 | content=The strategic railway tracks began from Nong Pla Duk Station in Amphoe Ban Pong, Ratchaburi, and ran via Kanchanaburi across the Khwae Yai River, westbound to the Three Pagodas Pass, to end at Thanbuyuzayat in Burma. Total length in Thai territory was 300&nbsp;km. The railway took only one year to complete, from October 1942–October 1943. After the war, some lengths of track were demolished and some submerged under the lake of Khao Laem Dam. }} ** {{listing | type=listing | name=Bridge over the River Kwai | alt=Saphan Mae Nam Kwae | url= | email= | address= | lat=14.04090 | long=99.50370 | directions=[[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | fax= | hours= |checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=This iron bridge across the Kwai Yai River is the main attraction for many visitors. Immortalized in the famous movie and novel, it was a part of the infamous '''Death Railway''' to [[Myanmar|Burma]], constructed by POWs working for the Japanese in hellish conditions during WWII. Some 16,000 POWs and 90,000 Asian workers (most of them enslaved) died during railway construction. The present iron bridge is the second wartime incarnation (a part of the original can be found in the War Museum), but two central box spans were rebuilt after the war to replace three sections destroyed by Allied bombing. }} ** {{listing | type=listing | name=Hellfire Pass | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=80 km northwest of [[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-02-16 | content=Only relocated in the 1980s, '''Konyu Cutting''' (known as '''Hellfire Pass''' by POWs and Asian labourers who cut and blasted through rock by hand to clear this pass for the Death Railway) has been reclaimed from the jungle as a profound war memorial funded by the Australian government. Excellent museum and self-guided walking tour facilities are available. The descent through the jungle down to the pass (listening to oral histories through audio headsets) is a moving experience. Annual Anzac Day Dawn Service are held here. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kanchanaburi War Cemetery | alt=สุสานทหารสัมพันธมิตรดอนรัก | url=http://www.cwgc.org/ | email= | address= | lat=14.03122 | long=99.52567 | directions=[[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-16 | content=This is the final resting place of 6,982 POWs who gave their lives for the construction of the Death Railway to Burma. All POWs at this site are from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Australia. After WWII, the Allies moved all the buried POWs along the railway line to two war cemeteries in Kanchanaburi so as to be easier to maintain. The graves are set in straight lines with neatly mown lawns, and some have moving personal inscriptions. Exceptionally well maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it is a sombre yet peaceful reminder of what happened. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Thailand-Burma Railway Centre | url=http://www.tbrconline.com/ | email= | address= | lat=14.03232 | long=99.52478 | directions=[[Kanchanaburi]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Generally considered to be the best source of information regarding World War II in Thailand, railway construction and route, and the conditions endured by POWs and Asian labourers. Very moving exhibits, including video and interactive displays. }} ===Pacific Ocean=== [[Image:Aerial photograph of Wake Island on 25 May 1941.jpg|thumb|The Wake Island atoll from the northeast, in 1941]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Wake Island]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.3 | long=166.633333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Wake Island | wikidata=Q43296 | content=This US-controlled island was taken by Japan shortly after Pearl Harbor and held by them throughout the war. There are ruins of Japanese fortifications, a monument for the American defenders who put up a stiff fight despite being badly outnumbered and outgunned, and a monument for a group of 98 POWs executed by the Japanese. Today the island is a US military base, off limits for most visitors except through the occasional guided tour. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Midway Islands]] | alt= | url=https://www.fws.gov/refuge/midway_atoll/ | email= | address= | lat=28.20935 | long=-177.37813 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Midway Atoll | wikidata=Q47863 | content=The site of the Battle of Midway, one of the major turning points in the Pacific War. The atoll is today home to memorials commemorating the battle. It is only populated by U.S. government personnel, and access is highly restricted; visits by the general public are generally only possible through a guided tour. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Henderson Airfield | alt={{IATA|HIR}} | url= | email= | address= | lat=-9.428 | long=160.054789 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Honiara International Airport | wikidata=Q859876 | lastedit=2015-12-14 | content=The Japanese began constructing an airfield in May 1942 in [[Honiara]] on Guadalcanal. Knowing that if they completed it, they'd be able to both isolate Australia from its allies and launch potentially devastating attacks, America quickly moved to take control of the airfield. It took six months to secure the airfield, after which the Americans finished construction on it and used it to launch attacks on other islands.</br>Henderson Airfield was later expanded to become the international airport of the [[Solomon Islands]], so of course it can be visited. Other sites around the airport include Bloody Ridge (where America defended against the Japanese), the Gifu (named after the [[Gifu|city by the same name]], it was a Japanese post attacked by the US), Mount Austin (used by the Japanese to get a full view of the airfield in their plan to retake it), as well as memorials for both the Americans and Japanese that fought here. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Betio Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=1.356266 | long=172.931607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Betio | wikidata=Q831455 | lastedit=2015-12-14 | content=Within a few days of Pearl Harbor, the Japanese took the [[Gilbert Islands]], then a British colony, now part of the independent nation [[Kiribati]]. America's first attack on Japanese forces occurred in [[Butaritari]], in the Gilberts, shortly after that.</br>In late 1943, the Allies came to oust Japan from the islands, which by then had been heavily fortified. Betio Island in [[Tarawa]] was the site of the '''Battle of Tarawa''', considered to be one of the bloodiest battles of the war. While war relics can be found on multiple islands throughout Kiribati, Betio Island is where the main battle took place and also where the most remains. Visitors can see tanks, bunkers, shipwrecks, guns, and memorials built by the Japanese, Americans, and Australians and New Zealanders. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Kokoda Track]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-8.898155 | long=147.739798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kokoda Track | wikidata=Q1424748 | lastedit=2016-01-25 | content=An important battle line in [[Papua New Guinea]], between [[Australia]] and [[Japan]], it is now a trekking destination, especially for Australians. }} [[File:Nauru-WWIIrelic.jpg|thumb|Remains of a Japanese gun on Nauru's Command Ridge]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=Command Ridge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-0.530547 | long=166.916702 | directions=[[Nauru]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Command Ridge | wikidata=Q2667931 | lastedit=2017-03-25 | content=During World War II, Nauru was occupied by the Japanese from August 1942 until their surrender at the tail end of the war in the wake of three years of near-continuous Allied air raids. Today, rusting relics from this era are scattered throughout the island — disused Japanese pillboxes line the shore every couple of kilometres, and old cannons can be seen along roadsides barely hidden by forest or even in plain sight between homes.</br>However, for those who want a firsthand look at Nauru's WWII history, Command Ridge (Nauruan: ''Janor'') is the place to go. As the island's highest point, rising to an elevation of 63 m above sea level, it was a natural lookout point for the occupiers. Today you'll find a bevy of old artillery emplacements (including a pair of six-barrel antiaircraft guns still pointed skyward), the ruins of a prison complex used to hold interned Nauruan natives (who were treated brutally by the Japanese) as well as five members of the Australian military captured during the invasion, and — most impressive of all — the former communications center, now open for any visitors to enter. The interior is not well lit, but bring in a lantern or torch and you'll still be able to make out faded Japanese writing on the walls. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Guam#Other_destinations|War in the Pacific National Historical Park]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.422508 | long=144.675661 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=War in the Pacific National Historical Park | wikidata=Q7968628 | content=On [[Guam]], but part of the US national park system since Guam is an American territory. The park honors all those who fought in the Pacific, not just on Guam and not just Americans. Guam was taken by the Japanese early in the war and retaken by the US in 1944. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Gizo]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-8.1058 | long=156.8350 | directions=[[Solomon Islands]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Gizo, Solomon Islands | wikidata=Q1236908 | content=Located on Ghizo Island, Gizo evokes the memories of vivid fighting in WWII. It is nowadays a tourist centre and some wrecks can be found underwater, including the Toa Maru. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Peleliu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=7.00 | long=134.25 | directions=[[Palau]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Peleliu | wikidata=Q497981 | content=Once a heavily fortified Japanese stronghold, Peleliu was the scene of a particularly brutal battle when U.S. Marines made an amphibious assault on the beaches to liberate the island from Imperial Japanese forces, who evolved tactics in a network of rocky caves in the surface of Umurbrogol Mountain (Bloody Nose Ridge). Today, the island is filled with relics, with intact military installations and an airstrip. It also has memorials honoring sacrifice to those who died in the fighting. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Angaur | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.9092 | long=134.1388 | directions=[[Palau]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Angaur | wikidata=Q530813 | content=This coraline island was once a Imperial Japanese command post until it became the site of the battle in 1944 as part of Operation Forager, when the 81st Infantry Division gained complete control of the island. Many of its American and Japanese battle relics remain scattered across the island. Often known as Monkey Island, Angaur is the only place in Micronesia inhabited by feral monkeys, descended by macaques that escaped during German occupation. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Enewetak Atoll | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=11.4654 | long=162.1890 | directions=[[Marshall Islands]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Enewetak Atoll | wikidata=Q649190 | content=Formerly known as Eniwetok, the island was the site of Operation Catchpole, when the marines fought a five-day amphibious assault on the island to gain control of a Japanese-owned airfield. Since 1980, Enewetak has been a habitable island. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Kuop | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=7.058889 | long=151.919167 | directions=[[Federated States of Micronesia]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Kuop | wikidata=Q1131149 | content=An atoll just southeast of the Chuuk Lagoon and known as Neoch. On February 4th, 1944, the Japanese destroyer ''Tachikaze'' ran aground on a reef and was later sunk in Operation Hailstone. Nowadays it is officially the largest marine protected area in Micronesia. }} ===South Korea=== Korea was a Japanese colony from 1910-1945, and many Korean men were drafted into the Japanese military. The Japanese had subjected Korea to a brutal occupation, in which the Korean language and culture were vigorously suppressed, and numerous Koreans were subject to live human experimentations without anaesthetic. Perhaps most notoriously, many Korean women were forced to become "comfort women"; sex slaves in Japanese military brothels. * {{listing | name=War & Women's Human Rights Museum | url=https://womenandwarmuseum.net | lat=37.5601 | long=126.9148 | content=South Korea's main museum dedicated to the memory of the "comfort women". }} ===Taiwan=== Taiwan was a Japanese colony from the end of the first Sino-Japanese war in 1895 until 1945, and many Taiwanese were enlisted into the Japanese military. Unlike in other Asian countries, the Taiwanese generally have positive views of Japanese colonial rule, and regard its legacy as an integral part of their national and cultural identity, though there are exceptions. Nevertheless, massacres of both ethnic Chinese and Aboriginal people occurred throughout the occupation. Although not as well-known as their Korean counterparts, numerous Taiwanese women were also forced to serve as "comfort women". The last Japanese holdout to be found alive was Attun Palalin, better known by his Japanese name Teruo Nakamura, an [[Indigenous Taiwanese culture|indigenous Taiwanese]] of Amis ethnicity who was enlisted as a private into one of the Japanese military's colonial units. He was repatriated to Taiwan following his discovery in 1974 on the island of [[Morotai]], [[Indonesia]], and died of lung cancer in 1979. * {{listing | name=Ama Museum | alt=阿嬤家-和平與女性人權館 | url=https://www.amamuseum.org.tw/en | email= | address= | lat=25.0645 | long=121.5181 | directions=[[Taipei/Old Taipei|Old Taipei]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Ama Museum | wikidata=Q24837610 | content=Museum dedicated to the memory of the Taiwanese women who were forced to serve as "comfort women" in Japanese military brothels. }} * {{listing | name=Jinguashi | alt=金瓜石 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Ruifang|Ruifang, New Taipei]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-07-18 | content=A small village which is near the Gold Ecological Park and the Jinguashi Mine, which is one of the largest gold mines in the world. From 1942 to 1945, the area was the location of the Kinkaseki POW Camp, where over 1,100 Allied prisoners of war were held captive and forced to work in the mines. There is a small memorial at the site of the POW camp. In the area is also the ruins of a Shinto shrine that was built by the Japanese. | wikipedia=Jinguashi | wikidata=Q5365867 }} * {{listing | name=National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine | alt=國民革命忠烈祠 | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.078406 | long=121.533043 | directions=[[Taipei/Zhongshan|Zhongshan District, Taipei]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine | wikidata=Q5956488 | content=Temple memorializing those who gave their lives for the Republic of China (ROC) during its tenure on mainland China including during the Second Sino-Japanese War. There is a changing of the guard ceremony every hour, on the hour from 09:00 to 17:00, which involves an impressive and highly synchronized rifle-twirling display by soldiers from the Taiwanese military. }} ===United States=== * {{listing | name=Pearl Harbor | lat=21.365 | long=-157.95 | content=Site of the bombing in [[Honolulu/Western|Western Honolulu]] that caused the [[United States]] to enter the war. }} * {{listing | name=The National WWII Museum | alt= | url=https://www.nationalww2museum.org | email= | address=[[New Orleans]] | lat=29.943139 | long=-90.07035 | directions= | phone=+1 504 528 1944 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The National WWII Museum | wikidata= | content=Museum commemorating the American war effort in both theatres of World War II, with interactive displays that aim to re-create the battlefield experience for visitors.}} [[File:MacArthur Memorial.jpg|thumb|The MacArthur Memorial]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=MacArthur Memorial | alt= | url=http://www.macarthurmemorial.org | email= | address=198 Bank St; Norfolk, Virginia | lat=36.847701 | long=-76.28862 | directions= | phone=+1-757-441-2965 | tollfree= | fax=+1-757-441-5389 | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM; Su 11AM-5PM | price=Free | wikipedia=MacArthur Memorial | wikidata=Q22073406 | lastedit=2019-04-02 | content=Museum dedicated to the life of Douglas MacArthur, the general who led U.S. forces to victory over the Japanese in the Philippines, and was appointed Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces. His grave is located within the museum. MacArthur is one of the few non-presidents to have been granted a U.S. state funeral. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial | alt= | url=http://www.nps.gov/poch/ | email= | address= | lat=38.0575 | long=-122.029722 | directions= | phone=+1 925 228-8860 ext 6520 (reservations) | tollfree= | hours=Tours available Th-Sa at 12:45PM (allow 1½ hours). Not all dates and times may be available. No public access Su-We | price= | wikipedia=Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial | image=Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial POCH 0011.jpg | wikidata=Q7230541 | lastedit=2019-04-06 | content=This memorial honors 320 individuals (including 200 young African American men) who were killed in a munitions accident during World War II while loading munitions and bombs onto ships bound for the Pacific Rim. Following the explosion many of the enlisted men refused to work, resulting in the Navy's largest mutiny trial and eventually helping to push the US Armed Forces to desegregate. The memorial is located on an active military base and as a result '''reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance''' and '''all visitors must be US citizens or permanent residents'''. Reservations can be made by calling or via an [http://www.nps.gov/poch/planyourvisit/permits-and-reservations.htm online reservation form]. All visitors are shuttled to the memorial from John Muir National Historic Site in nearby [[Martinez (California)|Martinez]]. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Aleutian World War II National Historic Area | alt= | url=http://nps.gov/aleu/ | email= | address= | lat=53.89494 | long=-166.53967 | directions=Visitor Center located on the apron of the Dutch Harbor airport | phone=+1 907 581-1276 | tollfree= | hours=Year round, but May-October offer the best access | price=Free | lastedit=2019-04-06 | content=This site is the remains of one of four WWII era forts constructed to defend Dutch Harbor against a potential Japanese attack. The visitor center is free, however, a Land Use Permit must be obtained to visit the historic site on Mount Ballyhoo. }} [[File:Iwo_Jima_Memorial_5.JPG|thumb|Marine Corps War Memorial]] * The {{marker|type=listing|name=US Marine Corps Memorial|lat=38.890432|long=-77.069714}} at [[Arlington (Virginia)|Arlington]], Virginia, depicts the famous scene of the raising of the (American) flag on [[Ogasawara Islands|Iwo Jima]], whose history is told by the movie ''Flags of our Fathers'' directed by Clint Eastwood. One of the soldiers involved, Ira Hayes, is commemorated in a fine song by Johnny Cash. * {{listing | type=listing | name=US National Museum of the Pacific War | alt= | url=http://www.pacificwarmuseum.org | email= | address= | lat=30.2719 | long=-98.8653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National Museum of the Pacific War | wikidata=Q6974516 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=In [[Fredericksburg (Texas)]], home town of Admiral Chester Nimitz who commanded US forces in part of the Pacific, this is a large museum complex with many exhibits. }} * {{listing | name=Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum | alt= | url=http://www.intrepidmuseum.org/ | email= | address=[[Manhattan/Theater District|Theater District]], [[New York City]] | lat=40.764722 | long=-74.000833 | directions= | phone=+1 212 245-0072 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Apr-Sep: M-F 10AM-5PM, Sa Su 10AM-6PM; Oct-Mar: Tu-Su 10AM-5PM | price=$16.50 adult | wikipedia=Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum | image=Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum, Manhattan.jpg | wikidata=Q952270 | content=The aircraft carrier ''USS Intrepid'' (CV-11), which had participated in World War II, is docked here and has been converted to a museum ship. The carrier was hit by numerous kamikaze attacks in the latter stages of the war, and there are now several interactive displays commemorating the casualties of the kamikaze attacks. }} * {{listing | name=Arlington National Cemetery | alt= | url=https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/ | email= | address=[[Arlington (Virginia|Arlington]], [[Virginia]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q216344 | content=The main military cemetery of the United States, home to the graves of numerous soldiers who died fighting in various wars including both world wars.}} A number of sites in the US commemorate the internment of Japanese-Americans during the war. * {{listing | name=Manzanar Internment Camp | alt= | url=http://www.nps.gov/manz/index.htm | email= | address=[[Independence (California)|Independence]], [[California]] | lat=36.728333 | long=-118.154444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Manzanar | image=Manzanar Tower (6713406239).jpg | wikidata=Q985484 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=The largest internment camp in the United States where approximately 110,000 Japanese-Americans and Japanese nationals living in the United States during the war were forced to live after being ordered to leave their homes. This museum contains information about the camp, the experiences of those who were forced to live here, and life after the war. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=WWII Japanese American Internment Museum | alt= | url=http://rohwer.astate.edu/plan-your-visit/museum/ | email= | address=McGehee, Arkansas (near [[Lake Village (Arkansas)|Lake Village]]) | lat=33.6283 | long=-91.3951 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Japanese American Internment Museum | wikidata=Q16849571 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=A former internment camp turned into a museum to educate people about the lives of Japanese-Americans at the Rohwer Relocation Center. It also includes information about the Jerome Japanese American Relocation Center that was built nearby in Jerome. Because this museum covers both, there is no museum in Jerome. The Jerome site only features a small monument in rememberance of its internnment camp. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Topaz Museum | alt= | url=http://www.topazmuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=39.414397 | long=-112.772732 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Topaz War Relocation Center | wikidata=Q7824771 | lastedit=2015-12-02 | content=The Topaz Relocation Center (internment camp) housed over 11,000 Japanese-Americans. Because people were moved here before it was finished, internees were actually hired to build the wire fences to pen themselves in. }} * {{listing | name=Tule Lake Segregation Center | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/tule/ | email= | address= | lat=41.889444 | long=-121.374722 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tule Lake Unit, World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument | image=Tule Lake camp main.jpg | wikidata=Q5944942 | lastedit=2017-10-08 | content=Tule Lake was another internment camp, and the one to house Japanese-Americans that the American government regarded as particularly "dangerous" to segregate them from American society and eventually deport some of them. }} * {{listing | name=Minidoka National Historic Site | alt= | url=https://www.nps.gov/miin/index.htm | email= | address=near [[Twin Falls]], Idaho | lat=42.679 | long=-114.244 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q927150 | lastedit=2021-10-19 | content=Most of the camp's buildings were removed after the war and can be found throughout the Magic Valley region. However, the site has remains of the guard entry station, waiting room, and rock gardens as well as a reconstructed guard tower. }} * {{listing | name=Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial | alt= | url=http://bijaema.org/ | email= | address=[[Bainbridge Island]], Washington | lat=47.6153 | long=-122.51 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4848541 | lastedit=2021-10-19 | content= }} ==Respect== While few living people remember the war, the countries involved have not always found reconciliation. In particular, the relationships between Japan and its neighbors China and South Korea are still tense today. Outside Japan and Taiwan, you should avoid displaying the Rising Sun Flag in East and Southeast Asia, as that would be the equivalent of displaying the Nazi flag in the West. ==See also== * [[World War II in China]] * [[World War II in Europe]] * [[World War II in Africa]] * [[Japanese colonial empire]] * [[World War I]] * [[Holocaust remembrance]] * [[Industrialization of the United States]] for non-military US history of the 1930s and 40s * [[Long March]] * [[Nuclear tourism]] {{PartOfTopic|World War II}} {{guidetopic}} 8fh8doubxyc1n4cjcxiv8qm5dv0b17e 0 144702 5091216 5046449 2025-07-11T06:28:25Z Ypsilon 1806 /* Museums */ https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20250711140835823/ 5091216 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Various signs at Times Square.jpg}} Different '''signs''' are today a part of the surroundings in built-up areas and along roads. Especially in the developed world, you can expect to find ''some'' kind of signs in nearly all public areas, both indoors and outdoors. ==Understand== [[File:LlanfairPGsign.jpg|thumbnail|Place sign. A rail station in [[Anglesey]]]] While probably most travelers visit destinations for other attractions than signs (and they are often not even considered attractions), they are still frequently objects of photography and part of the environment. Few foreign travelers would abstain from taking photos of the painted tile street name signs in [[Spain]], iconic pub signs in [[Britain]], kangaroo signs along [[Driving in Australia|Australia’s highways]] and the neon signs of [[Las Vegas]] and Chinatowns around the world. The very first time you travel to a country where another alphabet is used, being surrounded by signs in a script you probably cannot make any sense of is likely one of the major factors that make the place feel exotic and even intimidating. ==Types of signs== ===Road and street signs=== [[File:Huckberry Corvette.JPG|thumbnail|Hackberry general store. How many Route 66 signs do you spot?]] '''Route signs''' along the former [[Route 66]] are the obvious example of iconic road signs. Other famous routes, roads and hiking trails, also often have a special recognizable type of sign. When '''[[border crossings|crossing into another country]]''', province or other area there may be a remarkable “welcome” sign or even kind of gate or "arch of triumph". Note that it may not be OK to take photos of or near border crossings, as these are regarded as sensitive security areas. Abroad you may see not only '''traffic signs''' you haven’t seen before but new variants of familiar signs. For instance outside Europe and the US chances are that the text on the eight-sided red stop sign will be something else than “STOP”. Even in Latin America you will encounter “PARE” or “ALTO”. Signs notifying of '''dangers''' that are not commonly found around the world like the polar bear signs on [[Svalbard]] are also worth a photo. Relatively unique '''prohibitive signs''' also belong in this category, like the crossed-out maté gourd on [[Uruguay]]an intercity buses or durian fruit in the [[Singapore]] MRT system (though photography is not allowed in the latter). [[File:Vienna street sign.JPG|thumbnail|Am Hof, Old Vienna]] Cities and towns often have street signs that are aesthetically beautiful like the ones in the [[Vienna/Innere Stadt|Vienna Old town]] or otherwise iconic. Moreover some streets and squares like [[Manhattan|Broadway]] or the [[Central Moscow|Red Square]] are world famous, so while there don't forget to take a pic of the sign as well! Some famous streets (Champs Elysée in Paris, ''Unter den Linden'' in Berlin) are also marked by street signs that in some cases have become famous in their own right if only as "proof" that you actually were there, so take pictures. Streets, squares and roads are often named after important historical persons, events or places. Interestingly, they may be named after persons still alive (countries with authoritarian regimes are almost guaranteed to have these). And [[Rock and roll|rock]] fans will probably find AC/DC Lane in [[Melbourne]] and the Calle AC/DC in Leganés outside [[Madrid]] worth a visit. ===Places=== [[File:Welcome to fabulous las vegas sign.jpg|thumbnail|Probably the most famous town sign in the world, though unlike others it has no actual legal bearing]] [[File:Olof Palme Gedenktafel.jpg|thumb|Remembrance plaque for the assassination of Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme, in [[Stockholm/Norrmalm|Norrmalm, Stockholm]].]] Whether it be [[places with funny names]] like [[Hell]] or places famous for one reason or another like [[Wacken]] or [[Schengen]], the entrance sign to the town has often become a common motive for photography. Signs for [[Hollywood]] and [[Las Vegas]] (see image) have even become attractions in their own right. If a destination is rather small but has a [[Places with unusual names|funny or unusual name]], road and street signs that include the place’s name are often among the main attractions. This also includes corresponding signs of businesses if such exist. Of course some destinations may have names that businesses prefer not to use. '''Mountain peaks''', particularly high or low locations, extreme points of countries, continents and such often have a sign informing people that they are at such a location. Also, places where important historical people have been born or events have taken place are often marked by a '''commemorative plaque'''. ===Rail systems=== {{See also| rail enthusiast travel}} [[File:Métro Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre 2010.jpg|thumbnail|Here's a station of the [[Paris]] Métro]] Some major '''[[urban rail]] systems''' have very distinctive signs and logos, the best known probably being the Underground signs at the entrance to and inside the London Tube and the “Metropolitain” signs of Paris. Also, stations that are remarkably decorated often also feature remarkable station name signs. If you travel on '''named train services''', there are often signs on the stations or at least on and inside the wagons themselves. In addition, before and after an extraordinary train journey like the [[Trans-Siberian]], do take photos of the station signs too. [[File:FIS ICE3.jpg|thumbnail|Heaven for train and speed enthusiasts: almost 300 km/h]] Most modern [[high speed rail]] systems have some display showing travel speed. If you are fortunate enough to catch the speedometer (in practice, unless you're allowed into the driver's compartment, info screen) when it shows 300 km/h, 200 mph or even more, do take a picture. For some this may even be a factor or at least a contributing factor to chose a certain train in the first place. ===Business signs=== [[File:TempleBar TheOliver.JPG|thumbnail|Colorful façade of a pub in [[Dublin]]]] [[Old town]]s may have '''signs for businesses''' from the time where electrical light didn’t exist. Sometimes the establishment the sign marks may not be there any longer, sometimes it is, and otherwise the establishment isn't actually that old but just has an old-looking sign to better fit into the environment. These can be painted on the walls like murals or signboards mounted on or hanging out of the wall. In particular the [[British Isles]] are famous for their beautiful pub signs. Painted signboards such as the ones seen in Western movies can be seen in the [[ghost towns]] of the [[old west]]. [[File:P2150382.JPG|thumb|a street scene on an alley in [[Salzburg]] with many "guild sign" style signs]] "Guild signs" (or modern replicas made to look like them) are another favorite. Often, they protrude into the street at a right angle to be better visible. Examples include a distinctive striped "barber pole" (or a pair of scissors) for barbers, a pretzel for bakers, animals for butchers or restaurants. They are often used to invoke (real or proclaimed) tradition going back centuries and a "down home" feeling of the "good old days". The modern version of these are '''neon signs''', that have been around for about a century. Invented in [[France]], they are probably more often associated with the [[United States]] and subsequently [[East Asia]] and East Asian communities around the world. Actual neon signs used to be more common, but have partially been replaced by LED signs and screens. Billboards and street advertisements can also be considered part of this category, however they are not as permanent as the other forms of signage. In some cities (notably the [[City of London]]) you may also find older signs typically cast in metal with heraldic elements accompanied by numbers or letters These were originally signs to private fire brigades (run by insurance companies) that a particular building had paid its insurance premium and was thus under that brigade's protection. ===Ancient signs=== Signs are something that has likely been around as long as people have transmitted information through written text or pictures. For instance, at the time they were in use, ancient Greek temples often had inscriptions informing visitors of do’s and dont’s. <!-- (:w:Epigraphy#Ritual) --> ==See== {{mapframe}} ===Destinations=== [[File:Piccadilly-Circus-Publicité-Nuit.jpg|thumbnail|Piccadilly Circus]] Some destinations in the world are famous for their signage: * {{Marker|type=see|lat=40.75697 | long=-73.98605|name=[[Times Square]]}} — needs no further introduction * {{Marker|type=see|lat=51.5100 | long=-0.1345|name=[[London/Leicester Square|Piccadilly Circus]]}} — London's equivalent of Times Square * {{Marker|type=see|lat=36.1365 | long=-115.1586|name=[[Las Vegas]]}} in general, both the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Strip]] and [[Las Vegas/Downtown|downtown]] * {{Marker|type=see|lat=53.5496 | long=9.9617|name=[[Hamburg/Altona-St. Pauli|St.Pauli]]}} in Hamburg, as well as some other red light districts in the world. Also in St.Pauli you may spot some signs explicitly prohibiting guns; would you expect such signs elsewhere in Western Europe? * {{Marker|type=see|lat=35.6950 | long=139.7029|name=[[Tokyo/Shinjuku|Kabukichō]]}} and {{Marker|type=see|lat=35.65942 | long=139.70050|name=[[Tokyo/Shibuya|Shibuya]]}} in Tokyo. The latter reputedly has more two-story televisions than any other area in the world. * The districts of {{Marker|type=see|lat=13.7416 | long=100.5079|name=[[Bangkok/Yaowarat and Phahurat|Yaowarat and Phahurat]]}} as well as {{Marker|type=see|lat=13.76063 | long=100.49658|name=[[Bangkok/Khao San Road|Khao San Road]]}} in Bangkok are good places for eating, drinking and shopping – and seeing tons of signage of these businesses. * {{Marker|type=see|lat=29.95747 | long=-90.06670|name=[[New Orleans/French Quarter|The French Quarter, New Orleans]]}} has some street "signs" made with metal letters embedded in the sidewalk, and perhaps more famously, Bourbon Street in that district is lined with restaurants and bars with neon signs. * Commercial districts major East Asian cities and East Asian ethnic enclaves are often good places to spot colorful neon signs. * {{Marker|type=see|lat=48.067222|long=12.863611|name=[[Fugging]]}} formerly named Fucking was home to Austria's most stolen sign, together with pretty much any [[Places with unusual names|place with an unusual name]], but this was well before the name change. * Commercial districts in large cities of non-first-world countries. Although the mishmash of (often homemade) signs of all designs, shapes and sizes may not appeal to everyone, they're still a part of the street landscape there and "exotic". Especially if written in a language you don't understand or even script you cannot pronounce. * In [[Old towns]] you can often see beautiful old style signs, both business signs and street signs. The British Isles are particularly famous for their pub signs. * In Spanish and Portuguese cities, both in the countries themselves and parts of the world once forming part of the Spanish and Portuguese empires, you may encounter '''azulejos''' (tin-glazed ceramic tilework) in public places. While the most elaborate of these are paintings, there are also street signs and city maps painted on ceramic plates. ===Museums=== [[File:Stardust sign.jpeg|thumb|The former Stardust Casino's sign at the boneyard of Las Vegas Neon Museum]] There are several museums around the world showcasing signs both neon signs and other kinds: * {{listing | type=see | name=American Sign Museum | alt= | url=http://www.signmuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=39.14336 | long=-84.53949 | directions=[[Cincinnati/Clifton and Northside|Cincinnati]], USA | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-17 | content=Check out the only museum dedicated to the sign industry and features a very large collection of signs from all around the United States. Covering nearly 100 years of sign making and advertising, the museum boasts an impressive collection of painted, light bulb, plastic, and of course neon signs. The museum also houses Neon Works, the last full-time neon workshop in Cincinnati and is able to demonstrate their craft during weekday tours. }} * {{see | name=Neon Museum | url=http://www.neonmuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=36.1769 | long=-115.1352 | directions=[[Las Vegas/Downtown|Downtown Las Vegas]], USA | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An outdoor lot loaded with huge signs that once twinkled in front of the Silver Slipper, Stardust, and El Cortez. See the giant horseshoe made of thousands of gold-colored light bulbs. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Neon Muzeum | alt= | url=http://www.neonmuzeum.org | email= | address= | lat=52.2499 | long=21.0618 | directions=[[Warsaw/Praga|Praga, Warsaw]], Poland | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-12-20 | content=Interested in the signage from the eastern side of the former Iron Curtain? This museum features Polish neon signs from the [[Cold War Europe|Cold War era]] and photos of them. }} * {{see | name=God's Own Junkyard | alt= | url=http://godsownjunkyard.co.uk | email= | address= | lat=51.58394 | long=-0.00816| directions=[[London/East|East London]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-11-28 | content=A museum displaying hundreds of illuminated signs (neon and bulb signs) including signs of businesses, decorative signs, movie props and artworks. }} * {{see | name=Showa Neon Takamura Kanban Museum | alt= | url=https://www.showaneon.co.jp/museumu.html | email= | address= | lat=35.615 | long=139.7445 | directions=[[Tokyo/Shinagawa#Showa Neon Takamura Kanban Museum|Shinagawa, Tokyo]], Japan | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-09-18 | content=The sign company Showa Neon has a museum with shop signs from the Edo and early Meiji periods. All descriptions in this museum are reported to be in Japanese. ''Closed for renovation, expected to reopen in March 2025.'' }} * {{see | name=Museum of Neon Art | alt=MONA | url=http://www.neonmona.org | email= | address= | lat=34.1438 | long=-118.2546 | directions=[[Glendale (California)]], USA | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-03-10 | content=A museum devoted exclusively to art in electric media. The collection includes electric and kinetic fine art and outstanding examples of historic neon signs. The museum also arranges neon cruises (neon-themed tours around the Los Angeles area) and neon classes. }} * {{see | name=Buchstabenmuseum | alt= | url=https://www.buchstabenmuseum.de/en/ | email= | address= | lat=52.5199 | long=13.3448 | directions=[[Berlin/City West]], Germany | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-04 | content=Like the name says, this museum showcases letters that have been used in signage as well as entire signs, illuminated and non-illuminated. }} * {{see | name=Neon Art Museum | alt= | url=http://bico-neon.com | email= | address=| lat=35.179 | long=135.6598 | directions=[[Kyoto#Ukyo-ku|Kyoto]], Japan | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-09-14 | content=Neon art museum. }} * {{see | name=M+ | alt= | url=https://www.mplus.org.hk/en/exhibitions/conserving-neon-culture/ | email= | address=| lat=22.30081 | long=114.15919 | directions=[[Kowloon]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Hong Kong's visual art museum M+ has been collecting the large iconic neon signs that in the 21st century has been replaced with LED screens. Many of them are on display there. }} ==Buy== Truly iconic signs are often available as souvenirs, both as replica signs and as other forms. Consider buying one of those, if you want to bring home something physical. Antique shops and bric-a-brac markets often have old signs, old road signs and advertising signs from the early 20th century are popular. These are sometimes mixed with modern repoductions so investigate the provinence carefully if this matters to you. ==Learn== Some of the sign museums above, as well as art schools also arrange classes where you can try your hand at making different signs, including neon signs. * {{listing | type=listing | name=The Crucible | alt= | url=http://www.thecrucible.org | email= | address= | lat=37.8047 | long=-122.291 | directions=[[Oakland]], California, USA | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The Crucible (arts education center) | wikidata=Q7728245 | lastedit=2019-03-22 | content=An industrial arts collaborative offering classes in everything from blacksmithing to welding, also glassblowing and filling of neon tubes. }} * {{listing | name=Neon School| alt= | url= http://www.neonschool.co.uk/| email= | address= | lat=50.81897 | long=-0.13059 | directions=[[Brighton]], UK | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-03-10 | content=A neon art studio arranging one-day or weekend neon workshops. }} ==Respect== [[File:Nullarbor warning signs, 2012.jpg|thumbnail|No, leave these where they are]] Especially street signs with unusual or funny names and animal signs such as moose and reindeer warnings in [[Sweden]] and [[Finland]] and kangaroo and other animal warnings in [[Australia]] are often subjects to '''theft''' by souvenir-hungry tourists. '''Don’t do this.''' Not only is it illegal, but if you are removing a warning sign someone may actually get injured or even die; see [[animal collisions]]. Yes, visitors to Shitterton may just get annoyed that they cannot take a photo of a sign because it’s stolen, but imagine what a missing warning sign for a hairpin curve on a road, or [[volcanoes|lava]] or [[War_zone_safety#Land_mines_and_unexploded_ordnance|land mines]] next to a path in the worst case could cause! Manipulation of signs to make a humorous or political statement is usually illegal as well. Defacing a sign with stickers and graffiti is normally illegal, and causes trouble for others. Depending on the type and age of the sign and the country it is located in, you may want to have a look at the Freedom of Panorama legislation of that country if you wish to publish a photo of the sign on the Internet or in some other form. In the case of warning and prohibition signs, you should of course obey them. If you’re on a sign photo safari, do put your camera away if you see a “no photography” sign. And just like with [[urbex]], don’t enter areas you are not allowed to. ==See also== * [[Murals and graffiti]] * [[Places with unusual names]] * [[Transportation]] {{PartOfTopic|Architecture}} {{usabletopic}} l7xjwa48oob2b4ue7vhurqr118cgxpw 5091231 5091216 2025-07-11T07:17:27Z Ikan Kekek 36420 5091231 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Various signs at Times Square.jpg}} Different '''signs''' are today a part of the surroundings in built-up areas and along roads. Especially in the developed world, you can expect to find ''some'' kind of signs in nearly all public areas, both indoors and outdoors. ==Understand== [[File:LlanfairPGsign.jpg|thumbnail|Place sign. A rail station in [[Anglesey]]]] While probably most travelers visit destinations for other attractions than signs (and they are often not even considered attractions), they are still frequently objects of photography and part of the environment. Few foreign travelers would abstain from taking photos of the painted tile street name signs in [[Spain]], iconic pub signs in [[Britain]], kangaroo signs along [[Driving in Australia|Australia’s highways]] and the neon signs of [[Las Vegas]] and Chinatowns around the world. The very first time you travel to a country where another alphabet is used, being surrounded by signs in a script you probably cannot make any sense of is likely one of the major factors that make the place feel exotic and even intimidating. ==Types of signs== ===Road and street signs=== [[File:Huckberry Corvette.JPG|thumbnail|Hackberry general store. How many Route 66 signs do you spot?]] '''Route signs''' along the former [[Route 66]] are the obvious example of iconic road signs. Other famous routes, roads and hiking trails, also often have a special recognizable type of sign. When '''[[border crossings|crossing into another country]]''', province or other area there may be a remarkable “welcome” sign or even kind of gate or "arch of triumph". Note that it may not be OK to take photos of or near border crossings, as these are regarded as sensitive security areas. Abroad you may see not only '''traffic signs''' you haven’t seen before but new variants of familiar signs. For instance outside Europe and the US chances are that the text on the eight-sided red stop sign will be something else than “STOP”. Even in Latin America you will encounter “PARE” or “ALTO”. Signs notifying of '''dangers''' that are not commonly found around the world like the polar bear signs on [[Svalbard]] are also worth a photo. Relatively unique '''prohibitive signs''' also belong in this category, like the crossed-out maté gourd on [[Uruguay]]an intercity buses or durian fruit in the [[Singapore]] MRT system (though photography is not allowed in the latter). [[File:Vienna street sign.JPG|thumbnail|Am Hof, Old Vienna]] Cities and towns often have street signs that are aesthetically beautiful like the ones in the [[Vienna/Innere Stadt|Vienna Old town]] or otherwise iconic. Moreover some streets and squares like [[Manhattan|Broadway]] or the [[Central Moscow|Red Square]] are world famous, so while there don't forget to take a pic of the sign as well! Some famous streets (Champs Elysée in Paris, ''Unter den Linden'' in Berlin) are also marked by street signs that in some cases have become famous in their own right if only as "proof" that you actually were there, so take pictures. Streets, squares and roads are often named after important historical persons, events or places. Interestingly, they may be named after persons still alive (countries with authoritarian regimes are almost guaranteed to have these). And [[Rock and roll|rock]] fans will probably find AC/DC Lane in [[Melbourne]] and the Calle AC/DC in Leganés outside [[Madrid]] worth a visit. ===Places=== [[File:Welcome to fabulous las vegas sign.jpg|thumbnail|Probably the most famous town sign in the world, though unlike others it has no actual legal bearing]] [[File:Olof Palme Gedenktafel.jpg|thumb|Remembrance plaque for the assassination of Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme, in [[Stockholm/Norrmalm|Norrmalm, Stockholm]].]] Whether it be [[places with funny names]] like [[Hell]] or places famous for one reason or another like [[Wacken]] or [[Schengen]], the entrance sign to the town has often become a common motive for photography. Signs for [[Hollywood]] and [[Las Vegas]] (see image) have even become attractions in their own right. If a destination is rather small but has a [[Places with unusual names|funny or unusual name]], road and street signs that include the place’s name are often among the main attractions. This also includes corresponding signs of businesses if such exist. Of course some destinations may have names that businesses prefer not to use. '''Mountain peaks''', particularly high or low locations, extreme points of countries, continents and such often have a sign informing people that they are at such a location. Also, places where important historical people have been born or events have taken place are often marked by a '''commemorative plaque'''. ===Rail systems=== {{See also| rail enthusiast travel}} [[File:Métro Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre 2010.jpg|thumbnail|Here's a station of the [[Paris]] Métro]] Some major '''[[urban rail]] systems''' have very distinctive signs and logos, the best known probably being the Underground signs at the entrance to and inside the London Tube and the “Metropolitain” signs of Paris. Also, stations that are remarkably decorated often also feature remarkable station name signs. If you travel on '''named train services''', there are often signs on the stations or at least on and inside the wagons themselves. In addition, before and after an extraordinary train journey like the [[Trans-Siberian]], do take photos of the station signs too. [[File:FIS ICE3.jpg|thumbnail|Heaven for train and speed enthusiasts: almost 300 km/h]] Most modern [[high speed rail]] systems have some display showing travel speed. If you are fortunate enough to catch the speedometer (in practice, unless you're allowed into the driver's compartment, info screen) when it shows 300 km/h, 200 mph or even more, do take a picture. For some this may even be a factor or at least a contributing factor to chose a certain train in the first place. ===Business signs=== [[File:TempleBar TheOliver.JPG|thumbnail|Colorful façade of a pub in [[Dublin]]]] [[Old town]]s may have '''signs for businesses''' from the time where electrical light didn’t exist. Sometimes the establishment the sign marks may not be there any longer, sometimes it is, and otherwise the establishment isn't actually that old but just has an old-looking sign to better fit into the environment. These can be painted on the walls like murals or signboards mounted on or hanging out of the wall. In particular the [[British Isles]] are famous for their beautiful pub signs. Painted signboards such as the ones seen in Western movies can be seen in the [[ghost towns]] of the [[old west]]. [[File:P2150382.JPG|thumb|a street scene on an alley in [[Salzburg]] with many "guild sign" style signs]] "Guild signs" (or modern replicas made to look like them) are another favorite. Often, they protrude into the street at a right angle to be better visible. Examples include a distinctive striped "barber pole" (or a pair of scissors) for barbers, a pretzel for bakers, animals for butchers or restaurants. They are often used to invoke (real or proclaimed) tradition going back centuries and a "down home" feeling of the "good old days". The modern version of these are '''neon signs''', that have been around for about a century. Invented in [[France]], they are probably more often associated with the [[United States]] and subsequently [[East Asia]] and East Asian communities around the world. Actual neon signs used to be more common, but have partially been replaced by LED signs and screens. Billboards and street advertisements can also be considered part of this category, however they are not as permanent as the other forms of signage. In some cities (notably the [[City of London]]) you may also find older signs typically cast in metal with heraldic elements accompanied by numbers or letters These were originally signs to private fire brigades (run by insurance companies) that a particular building had paid its insurance premium and was thus under that brigade's protection. ===Ancient signs=== Signs are something that has likely been around as long as people have transmitted information through written text or pictures. For instance, at the time they were in use, ancient Greek temples often had inscriptions informing visitors of do’s and dont’s. <!-- (:w:Epigraphy#Ritual) --> ==See== {{mapframe}} ===Destinations=== [[File:Piccadilly-Circus-Publicité-Nuit.jpg|thumbnail|Piccadilly Circus]] Some destinations in the world are famous for their signage: * {{Marker|type=see|lat=40.75697 | long=-73.98605|name=[[Times Square]]}} — needs no further introduction * {{Marker|type=see|lat=51.5100 | long=-0.1345|name=[[London/Leicester Square|Piccadilly Circus]]}} — London's equivalent of Times Square * {{Marker|type=see|lat=36.1365 | long=-115.1586|name=[[Las Vegas]]}} in general, both the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Strip]] and [[Las Vegas/Downtown|downtown]] * {{Marker|type=see|lat=53.5496 | long=9.9617|name=[[Hamburg/Altona-St. Pauli|St.Pauli]]}} in Hamburg, as well as some other red light districts in the world. Also in St.Pauli you may spot some signs explicitly prohibiting guns; would you expect such signs elsewhere in Western Europe? * {{Marker|type=see|lat=35.6950 | long=139.7029|name=[[Tokyo/Shinjuku|Kabukichō]]}} and {{Marker|type=see|lat=35.65942 | long=139.70050|name=[[Tokyo/Shibuya|Shibuya]]}} in Tokyo. The latter reputedly has more two-story televisions than any other area in the world. * The districts of {{Marker|type=see|lat=13.7416 | long=100.5079|name=[[Bangkok/Yaowarat and Phahurat|Yaowarat and Phahurat]]}} as well as {{Marker|type=see|lat=13.76063 | long=100.49658|name=[[Bangkok/Khao San Road|Khao San Road]]}} in Bangkok are good places for eating, drinking and shopping – and seeing tons of signage of these businesses. * {{Marker|type=see|lat=29.95747 | long=-90.06670|name=[[New Orleans/French Quarter|The French Quarter, New Orleans]]}} has some street "signs" made with metal letters embedded in the sidewalk, and perhaps more famously, Bourbon Street in that district is lined with restaurants and bars with neon signs. * Commercial districts major East Asian cities and East Asian ethnic enclaves are often good places to spot colorful neon signs. * {{Marker|type=see|lat=48.067222|long=12.863611|name=[[Fugging]]}} formerly named Fucking was home to Austria's most stolen sign, together with pretty much any [[Places with unusual names|place with an unusual name]], but this was well before the name change. * Commercial districts in large cities of non-first-world countries. Although the mishmash of (often homemade) signs of all designs, shapes and sizes may not appeal to everyone, they're still a part of the street landscape there and "exotic". Especially if written in a language you don't understand or even script you cannot pronounce. * In [[Old towns]] you can often see beautiful old style signs, both business signs and street signs. The British Isles are particularly famous for their pub signs. * In Spanish and Portuguese cities, both in the countries themselves and parts of the world once forming part of the Spanish and Portuguese empires, you may encounter '''azulejos''' (tin-glazed ceramic tilework) in public places. While the most elaborate of these are paintings, there are also street signs and city maps painted on ceramic plates. ===Museums=== [[File:Stardust sign.jpeg|thumb|The former Stardust Casino's sign at the boneyard of Las Vegas Neon Museum]] There are several museums around the world showcasing signs both neon signs and other kinds: * {{listing | type=see | name=American Sign Museum | alt= | url=http://www.signmuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=39.14336 | long=-84.53949 | directions=[[Cincinnati/Clifton and Northside|Cincinnati]], USA | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-17 | content=Check out the only museum dedicated to the sign industry and features a very large collection of signs from all around the United States. Covering nearly 100 years of sign making and advertising, the museum boasts an impressive collection of painted, light bulb, plastic, and of course neon signs. The museum also houses Neon Works, the last full-time neon workshop in Cincinnati and is able to demonstrate their craft during weekday tours. }} * {{see | name=Neon Museum | url=http://www.neonmuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=36.1769 | long=-115.1352 | directions=[[Las Vegas/Downtown|Downtown Las Vegas]], USA | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An outdoor lot loaded with huge signs that once twinkled in front of the Silver Slipper, Stardust, and El Cortez. See the giant horseshoe made of thousands of gold-colored light bulbs. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Neon Muzeum | alt= | url=http://www.neonmuzeum.org | email= | address= | lat=52.2499 | long=21.0618 | directions=[[Warsaw/Praga|Praga, Warsaw]], Poland | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-12-20 | content=Interested in the signage from the eastern side of the former Iron Curtain? This museum features Polish neon signs from the [[Cold War Europe|Cold War era]] and photos of them. }} * {{see | name=God's Own Junkyard | alt= | url=http://godsownjunkyard.co.uk | email= | address= | lat=51.58394 | long=-0.00816| directions=[[London/East|East London]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-11-28 | content=A museum displaying hundreds of illuminated signs (neon and bulb signs) including signs of businesses, decorative signs, movie props and artworks. }} * {{see | name=Showa Neon Takamura Kanban Museum | alt= | url=https://www.showaneon.co.jp/museumu.html | email= | address= | lat=35.615 | long=139.7445 | directions=[[Tokyo/Shinagawa#Showa Neon Takamura Kanban Museum|Shinagawa, Tokyo]], Japan | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-09-18 | content=The sign company Showa Neon has a museum with shop signs from the Edo and early Meiji periods. All descriptions in this museum are reported to be in Japanese. ''Closed for renovation, expected to reopen in March 2025.'' }} * {{see | name=Museum of Neon Art | alt=MONA | url=http://www.neonmona.org | email= | address= | lat=34.1438 | long=-118.2546 | directions=[[Glendale (California)]], USA | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-03-10 | content=A museum devoted exclusively to art in electric media. The collection includes electric and kinetic fine art and outstanding examples of historic neon signs. The museum also arranges neon cruises (neon-themed tours around the Los Angeles area) and neon classes. }} * {{see | name=Buchstabenmuseum | alt= | url=https://www.buchstabenmuseum.de/en/ | email= | address= | lat=52.5199 | long=13.3448 | directions=[[Berlin/City West]], Germany | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-04 | content=Like the name says, this museum showcases letters that have been used in signage as well as entire signs, illuminated and non-illuminated. }} * {{see | name=Neon Art Museum | alt= | url=http://bico-neon.com | email= | address=| lat=35.179 | long=135.6598 | directions=[[Kyoto#Ukyo-ku|Kyoto]], Japan | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-09-14 | content=Neon art museum. }} * {{see | name=M+ | alt= | url=https://www.mplus.org.hk/en/exhibitions/conserving-neon-culture/ | email= | address=| lat=22.30081 | long=114.15919 | directions=[[Kowloon]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Hong Kong's visual art museum M+ has been collecting the large iconic neon signs that in the 21st century have been replaced with LED screens. Many of them are on display there. }} ==Buy== Truly iconic signs are often available as souvenirs, both as replica signs and as other forms. Consider buying one of those, if you want to bring home something physical. Antique shops and bric-a-brac markets often have old signs, old road signs and advertising signs from the early 20th century are popular. These are sometimes mixed with modern repoductions so investigate the provinence carefully if this matters to you. ==Learn== Some of the sign museums above, as well as art schools also arrange classes where you can try your hand at making different signs, including neon signs. * {{listing | type=listing | name=The Crucible | alt= | url=http://www.thecrucible.org | email= | address= | lat=37.8047 | long=-122.291 | directions=[[Oakland]], California, USA | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The Crucible (arts education center) | wikidata=Q7728245 | lastedit=2019-03-22 | content=An industrial arts collaborative offering classes in everything from blacksmithing to welding, also glassblowing and filling of neon tubes. }} * {{listing | name=Neon School| alt= | url= http://www.neonschool.co.uk/| email= | address= | lat=50.81897 | long=-0.13059 | directions=[[Brighton]], UK | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-03-10 | content=A neon art studio arranging one-day or weekend neon workshops. }} ==Respect== [[File:Nullarbor warning signs, 2012.jpg|thumbnail|No, leave these where they are]] Especially street signs with unusual or funny names and animal signs such as moose and reindeer warnings in [[Sweden]] and [[Finland]] and kangaroo and other animal warnings in [[Australia]] are often subjects to '''theft''' by souvenir-hungry tourists. '''Don’t do this.''' Not only is it illegal, but if you are removing a warning sign someone may actually get injured or even die; see [[animal collisions]]. Yes, visitors to Shitterton may just get annoyed that they cannot take a photo of a sign because it’s stolen, but imagine what a missing warning sign for a hairpin curve on a road, or [[volcanoes|lava]] or [[War_zone_safety#Land_mines_and_unexploded_ordnance|land mines]] next to a path in the worst case could cause! Manipulation of signs to make a humorous or political statement is usually illegal as well. Defacing a sign with stickers and graffiti is normally illegal, and causes trouble for others. Depending on the type and age of the sign and the country it is located in, you may want to have a look at the Freedom of Panorama legislation of that country if you wish to publish a photo of the sign on the Internet or in some other form. In the case of warning and prohibition signs, you should of course obey them. If you’re on a sign photo safari, do put your camera away if you see a “no photography” sign. And just like with [[urbex]], don’t enter areas you are not allowed to. ==See also== * [[Murals and graffiti]] * [[Places with unusual names]] * [[Transportation]] {{PartOfTopic|Architecture}} {{usabletopic}} lxu7sxg1cva8p7bti0qhlq9hzr4afa8 5091232 5091231 2025-07-11T07:18:04Z Ikan Kekek 36420 5091232 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Various signs at Times Square.jpg}} Different '''signs''' are today a part of the surroundings in built-up areas and along roads. Especially in the developed world, you can expect to find ''some'' kind of signs in nearly all public areas, both indoors and outdoors. ==Understand== [[File:LlanfairPGsign.jpg|thumbnail|Place sign. A rail station in [[Anglesey]]]] While probably most travelers visit destinations for other attractions than signs (and they are often not even considered attractions), they are still frequently objects of photography and part of the environment. Few foreign travelers would abstain from taking photos of the painted tile street name signs in [[Spain]], iconic pub signs in [[Britain]], kangaroo signs along [[Driving in Australia|Australia’s highways]] and the neon signs of [[Las Vegas]] and Chinatowns around the world. The very first time you travel to a country where another alphabet is used, being surrounded by signs in a script you probably cannot make any sense of is likely one of the major factors that make the place feel exotic and even intimidating. ==Types of signs== ===Road and street signs=== [[File:Huckberry Corvette.JPG|thumbnail|Hackberry general store. How many Route 66 signs do you spot?]] '''Route signs''' along the former [[Route 66]] are the obvious example of iconic road signs. Other famous routes, roads and hiking trails, also often have a special recognizable type of sign. When '''[[border crossings|crossing into another country]]''', province or other area there may be a remarkable “welcome” sign or even kind of gate or "arch of triumph". Note that it may not be OK to take photos of or near border crossings, as these are regarded as sensitive security areas. Abroad you may see not only '''traffic signs''' you haven’t seen before but new variants of familiar signs. For instance outside Europe and the US chances are that the text on the eight-sided red stop sign will be something else than “STOP”. Even in Latin America you will encounter “PARE” or “ALTO”. Signs notifying of '''dangers''' that are not commonly found around the world like the polar bear signs on [[Svalbard]] are also worth a photo. Relatively unique '''prohibitive signs''' also belong in this category, like the crossed-out maté gourd on [[Uruguay]]an intercity buses or durian fruit in the [[Singapore]] MRT system (though photography is not allowed in the latter). [[File:Vienna street sign.JPG|thumbnail|Am Hof, Old Vienna]] Cities and towns often have street signs that are aesthetically beautiful like the ones in the [[Vienna/Innere Stadt|Vienna Old town]] or otherwise iconic. Moreover some streets and squares like [[Manhattan|Broadway]] or the [[Central Moscow|Red Square]] are world famous, so while there don't forget to take a pic of the sign as well! Some famous streets (Champs Elysée in Paris, ''Unter den Linden'' in Berlin) are also marked by street signs that in some cases have become famous in their own right if only as "proof" that you actually were there, so take pictures. Streets, squares and roads are often named after important historical persons, events or places. Interestingly, they may be named after persons still alive (countries with authoritarian regimes are almost guaranteed to have these). And [[Rock and roll|rock]] fans will probably find AC/DC Lane in [[Melbourne]] and the Calle AC/DC in Leganés outside [[Madrid]] worth a visit. ===Places=== [[File:Welcome to fabulous las vegas sign.jpg|thumbnail|Probably the most famous town sign in the world, though unlike others it has no actual legal bearing]] [[File:Olof Palme Gedenktafel.jpg|thumb|Remembrance plaque for the assassination of Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme, in [[Stockholm/Norrmalm|Norrmalm, Stockholm]].]] Whether it be [[places with funny names]] like [[Hell]] or places famous for one reason or another like [[Wacken]] or [[Schengen]], the entrance sign to the town has often become a common motive for photography. Signs for [[Hollywood]] and [[Las Vegas]] (see image) have even become attractions in their own right. If a destination is rather small but has a [[Places with unusual names|funny or unusual name]], road and street signs that include the place’s name are often among the main attractions. This also includes corresponding signs of businesses if such exist. Of course some destinations may have names that businesses prefer not to use. '''Mountain peaks''', particularly high or low locations, extreme points of countries, continents and such often have a sign informing people that they are at such a location. Also, places where important historical people have been born or events have taken place are often marked by a '''commemorative plaque'''. ===Rail systems=== {{See also| rail enthusiast travel}} [[File:Métro Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre 2010.jpg|thumbnail|Here's a station of the [[Paris]] Métro]] Some major '''[[urban rail]] systems''' have very distinctive signs and logos, the best known probably being the Underground signs at the entrance to and inside the London Tube and the “Metropolitain” signs of Paris. Also, stations that are remarkably decorated often also feature remarkable station name signs. If you travel on '''named train services''', there are often signs on the stations or at least on and inside the wagons themselves. In addition, before and after an extraordinary train journey like the [[Trans-Siberian]], do take photos of the station signs too. [[File:FIS ICE3.jpg|thumbnail|Heaven for train and speed enthusiasts: almost 300 km/h]] Most modern [[high speed rail]] systems have some display showing travel speed. If you are fortunate enough to catch the speedometer (in practice, unless you're allowed into the driver's compartment, info screen) when it shows 300 km/h, 200 mph or even more, do take a picture. For some this may even be a factor or at least a contributing factor to chose a certain train in the first place. ===Business signs=== [[File:TempleBar TheOliver.JPG|thumbnail|Colorful façade of a pub in [[Dublin]]]] [[Old town]]s may have '''signs for businesses''' from the time where electrical light didn’t exist. Sometimes the establishment the sign marks may not be there any longer, sometimes it is, and otherwise the establishment isn't actually that old but just has an old-looking sign to better fit into the environment. These can be painted on the walls like murals or signboards mounted on or hanging out of the wall. In particular the [[British Isles]] are famous for their beautiful pub signs. Painted signboards such as the ones seen in Western movies can be seen in the [[ghost towns]] of the [[old west]]. [[File:P2150382.JPG|thumb|a street scene on an alley in [[Salzburg]] with many "guild sign" style signs]] "Guild signs" (or modern replicas made to look like them) are another favorite. Often, they protrude into the street at a right angle to be better visible. Examples include a distinctive striped "barber pole" (or a pair of scissors) for barbers, a pretzel for bakers, animals for butchers or restaurants. They are often used to invoke (real or proclaimed) tradition going back centuries and a "down home" feeling of the "good old days". The modern version of these are '''neon signs''', that have been around for about a century. Invented in [[France]], they are probably more often associated with the [[United States]] and subsequently [[East Asia]] and East Asian communities around the world. Actual neon signs used to be more common, but have partially been replaced by LED signs and screens. Billboards and street advertisements can also be considered part of this category, however they are not as permanent as the other forms of signage. In some cities (notably the [[City of London]]) you may also find older signs typically cast in metal with heraldic elements accompanied by numbers or letters These were originally signs to private fire brigades (run by insurance companies) that a particular building had paid its insurance premium and was thus under that brigade's protection. ===Ancient signs=== Signs are something that has likely been around as long as people have transmitted information through written text or pictures. For instance, at the time they were in use, ancient Greek temples often had inscriptions informing visitors of do’s and dont’s. <!-- (:w:Epigraphy#Ritual) --> ==See== {{mapframe}} ===Destinations=== [[File:Piccadilly-Circus-Publicité-Nuit.jpg|thumbnail|Piccadilly Circus]] Some destinations in the world are famous for their signage: * {{Marker|type=see|lat=40.75697 | long=-73.98605|name=[[Times Square]]}} — needs no further introduction * {{Marker|type=see|lat=51.5100 | long=-0.1345|name=[[London/Leicester Square|Piccadilly Circus]]}} — London's equivalent of Times Square * {{Marker|type=see|lat=36.1365 | long=-115.1586|name=[[Las Vegas]]}} in general, both the [[Las Vegas/The Strip|Strip]] and [[Las Vegas/Downtown|downtown]] * {{Marker|type=see|lat=53.5496 | long=9.9617|name=[[Hamburg/Altona-St. Pauli|St.Pauli]]}} in Hamburg, as well as some other red light districts in the world. Also in St.Pauli you may spot some signs explicitly prohibiting guns; would you expect such signs elsewhere in Western Europe? * {{Marker|type=see|lat=35.6950 | long=139.7029|name=[[Tokyo/Shinjuku|Kabukichō]]}} and {{Marker|type=see|lat=35.65942 | long=139.70050|name=[[Tokyo/Shibuya|Shibuya]]}} in Tokyo. The latter reputedly has more two-story televisions than any other area in the world. * The districts of {{Marker|type=see|lat=13.7416 | long=100.5079|name=[[Bangkok/Yaowarat and Phahurat|Yaowarat and Phahurat]]}} as well as {{Marker|type=see|lat=13.76063 | long=100.49658|name=[[Bangkok/Khao San Road|Khao San Road]]}} in Bangkok are good places for eating, drinking and shopping – and seeing tons of signage of these businesses. * {{Marker|type=see|lat=29.95747 | long=-90.06670|name=[[New Orleans/French Quarter|The French Quarter, New Orleans]]}} has some street "signs" made with metal letters embedded in the sidewalk, and perhaps more famously, Bourbon Street in that district is lined with restaurants and bars with neon signs. * Commercial districts major East Asian cities and East Asian ethnic enclaves are often good places to spot colorful neon signs. * {{Marker|type=see|lat=48.067222|long=12.863611|name=[[Fugging]]}} formerly named Fucking was home to Austria's most stolen sign, together with pretty much any [[Places with unusual names|place with an unusual name]], but this was well before the name change. * Commercial districts in large cities of non-first-world countries. Although the mishmash of (often homemade) signs of all designs, shapes and sizes may not appeal to everyone, they're still a part of the street landscape there and "exotic". Especially if written in a language you don't understand or even script you cannot pronounce. * In [[Old towns]] you can often see beautiful old style signs, both business signs and street signs. The British Isles are particularly famous for their pub signs. * In Spanish and Portuguese cities, both in the countries themselves and parts of the world once forming part of the Spanish and Portuguese empires, you may encounter '''azulejos''' (tin-glazed ceramic tilework) in public places. While the most elaborate of these are paintings, there are also street signs and city maps painted on ceramic plates. ===Museums=== [[File:Stardust sign.jpeg|thumb|The former Stardust Casino's sign at the boneyard of Las Vegas Neon Museum]] There are several museums around the world showcasing signs both neon signs and other kinds: * {{listing | type=see | name=American Sign Museum | alt= | url=http://www.signmuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=39.14336 | long=-84.53949 | directions=[[Cincinnati/Clifton and Northside|Cincinnati]], USA | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-17 | content=Check out the only museum dedicated to the sign industry and features a very large collection of signs from all around the United States. Covering nearly 100 years of sign making and advertising, the museum boasts an impressive collection of painted, light bulb, plastic, and of course neon signs. The museum also houses Neon Works, the last full-time neon workshop in Cincinnati and is able to demonstrate their craft during weekday tours. }} * {{see | name=Neon Museum | url=http://www.neonmuseum.org/ | email= | address= | lat=36.1769 | long=-115.1352 | directions=[[Las Vegas/Downtown|Downtown Las Vegas]], USA | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An outdoor lot loaded with huge signs that once twinkled in front of the Silver Slipper, Stardust, and El Cortez. See the giant horseshoe made of thousands of gold-colored light bulbs. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Neon Muzeum | alt= | url=http://www.neonmuzeum.org | email= | address= | lat=52.2499 | long=21.0618 | directions=[[Warsaw/Praga|Praga, Warsaw]], Poland | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-12-20 | content=Interested in the signage from the eastern side of the former Iron Curtain? This museum features Polish neon signs from the [[Cold War Europe|Cold War era]] and photos of them. }} * {{see | name=God's Own Junkyard | alt= | url=http://godsownjunkyard.co.uk | email= | address= | lat=51.58394 | long=-0.00816| directions=[[London/East|East London]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-11-28 | content=A museum displaying hundreds of illuminated signs (neon and bulb signs) including signs of businesses, decorative signs, movie props and artworks. }} * {{see | name=Showa Neon Takamura Kanban Museum | alt= | url=https://www.showaneon.co.jp/museumu.html | email= | address= | lat=35.615 | long=139.7445 | directions=[[Tokyo/Shinagawa#Showa Neon Takamura Kanban Museum|Shinagawa, Tokyo]], Japan | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-09-18 | content=The sign company Showa Neon has a museum with shop signs from the Edo and early Meiji periods. All descriptions in this museum are reported to be in Japanese. ''Closed for renovation, expected to reopen in March 2025.'' }} * {{see | name=Museum of Neon Art | alt=MONA | url=http://www.neonmona.org | email= | address= | lat=34.1438 | long=-118.2546 | directions=[[Glendale (California)]], USA | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-03-10 | content=A museum devoted exclusively to art in electric media. The collection includes electric and kinetic fine art and outstanding examples of historic neon signs. The museum also arranges neon cruises (neon-themed tours around the Los Angeles area) and neon classes. }} * {{see | name=Buchstabenmuseum | alt= | url=https://www.buchstabenmuseum.de/en/ | email= | address= | lat=52.5199 | long=13.3448 | directions=[[Berlin/City West]], Germany | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-04 | content=Like the name says, this museum showcases letters that have been used in signage as well as entire signs, illuminated and non-illuminated. }} * {{see | name=Neon Art Museum | alt= | url=http://bico-neon.com | email= | address=| lat=35.179 | long=135.6598 | directions=[[Kyoto#Ukyo-ku|Kyoto]], Japan | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-09-14 | content=Neon art museum. }} * {{see | name=M+ | alt= | url=https://www.mplus.org.hk/en/exhibitions/conserving-neon-culture/ | email= | address=| lat=22.30081 | long=114.15919 | directions=[[Kowloon]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Hong Kong's visual art museum M+ has been collecting the large iconic neon signs that in the 21st century have been replaced with LED screens. Many of them are on display there. }} ==Buy== Truly iconic signs are often available as souvenirs, both as replica signs and as other forms. Consider buying one of those, if you want to bring home something physical. Antique shops and bric-a-brac markets often have old signs, old road signs and advertising signs from the early 20th century are popular. These are sometimes mixed with modern reproductions so investigate the provenance carefully if this matters to you. ==Learn== Some of the sign museums above, as well as art schools also arrange classes where you can try your hand at making different signs, including neon signs. * {{listing | type=listing | name=The Crucible | alt= | url=http://www.thecrucible.org | email= | address= | lat=37.8047 | long=-122.291 | directions=[[Oakland]], California, USA | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=The Crucible (arts education center) | wikidata=Q7728245 | lastedit=2019-03-22 | content=An industrial arts collaborative offering classes in everything from blacksmithing to welding, also glassblowing and filling of neon tubes. }} * {{listing | name=Neon School| alt= | url= http://www.neonschool.co.uk/| email= | address= | lat=50.81897 | long=-0.13059 | directions=[[Brighton]], UK | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-03-10 | content=A neon art studio arranging one-day or weekend neon workshops. }} ==Respect== [[File:Nullarbor warning signs, 2012.jpg|thumbnail|No, leave these where they are]] Especially street signs with unusual or funny names and animal signs such as moose and reindeer warnings in [[Sweden]] and [[Finland]] and kangaroo and other animal warnings in [[Australia]] are often subjects to '''theft''' by souvenir-hungry tourists. '''Don’t do this.''' Not only is it illegal, but if you are removing a warning sign someone may actually get injured or even die; see [[animal collisions]]. Yes, visitors to Shitterton may just get annoyed that they cannot take a photo of a sign because it’s stolen, but imagine what a missing warning sign for a hairpin curve on a road, or [[volcanoes|lava]] or [[War_zone_safety#Land_mines_and_unexploded_ordnance|land mines]] next to a path in the worst case could cause! Manipulation of signs to make a humorous or political statement is usually illegal as well. Defacing a sign with stickers and graffiti is normally illegal, and causes trouble for others. Depending on the type and age of the sign and the country it is located in, you may want to have a look at the Freedom of Panorama legislation of that country if you wish to publish a photo of the sign on the Internet or in some other form. In the case of warning and prohibition signs, you should of course obey them. If you’re on a sign photo safari, do put your camera away if you see a “no photography” sign. And just like with [[urbex]], don’t enter areas you are not allowed to. ==See also== * [[Murals and graffiti]] * [[Places with unusual names]] * [[Transportation]] {{PartOfTopic|Architecture}} {{usabletopic}} 7cs14rjb0485xurx6xprmt8an8mf4e8 0 144730 5091100 5080122 2025-07-11T00:39:10Z SHB2000 2248002 -featurenom template 5091100 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Forillon National Park - Wikivoyage Pagebanner.jpg}} You'll find '''Forillon National Park of Canada''' ([[French phrasebook|French]]: ''Parc national du Canada Forillon'') at the final [[Land's End (Gaspé Peninsula)|Land's End]] of [[Quebec]]'s [[Gaspé Peninsula]], where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape — an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore — means Forillon is a varied place that wears many hats. For hikers and nature lovers, there are nearly 72 km (45 miles) of trails that pass through ten distinct ecosystems, each with a cornucopia of diverse plant and animal life. If getting out on the water is your game, there are [[whale watching]] cruises, sea kayaking and paddleboarding excursions — or perhaps you'd rather just bask in the warm, shallow waters of '''Penouille Beach'''. Even history buffs have a place at Forillon's table, with a beautifully preserved 19th-century fishing village that pays homage to the hardworking families of old that made their living off the rich bounty of the sea. ==Understand== Located at the far northeastern extremity of the Gaspé Peninsula, Forillon National Park is a roughly triangular expanse of 242 km² (94 square miles) sandwiched between '''Gaspé Bay''' and the '''St. Lawrence Estuary'''. The [[Canadian national parks|Canadian national park]] is contained entirely within the municipality of [[Gaspé]], and the main entrance is only 15 minutes by car from the town centre. ===History=== For several millennia before the arrival of Europeans, what is now Forillon National Park was known to the local Mi'kmaq people (and, earlier, the rival Mohawks as well) as a fertile hunting and fishing ground. As well, {{marker|type=listing|name=La Penouille|lat=48.852295|long=-64.432315}} — a long, rocky sand spit extending off the south shore of the park into Gaspé Bay — was a source of stone used to produce arrowheads and other tools, with archaeological excavations unearthing chipped rock, fire pits, and pottery dating back as far as 600&nbsp;BC. Although the cod that once teemed in the adjacent Gulf of St. Lawrence attracted a motley mixture of Basque, Spanish, Portuguese, and French fishermen to the region beginning shortly after Columbus' voyage, the first European to extensively explore the region around Forillon was '''Jacques Cartier''', who, in 1534, sailed past Cap Gaspé and briefly anchored in Gaspé Bay to wait out a passing storm, before coming ashore in what's now the city of Gaspé to claim the entire region for the French crown: the birth of the colony of New France. [[File:William Hyman and Sons Store and Warehouse, Grande-Grave, Forillon National Park.jpg|thumb|350px|The former '''William Hyman and Sons''' warehouse and store remain standing at Grande-Grave, and have been restored by Parks Canada to their 19th-century appearance.]] Despite European colonial ambitions and the enduring popularity of the surrounding waters with fishermen, it wasn't until two hundred years after Cartier's voyage — by which time [[United Kingdom|Great Britain]] had conquered all of [[France]]'s colonial holdings in what is now Canada — that the first permanent European settlements on the Gaspé Peninsula itself were established. The largest village located within what is now Forillon was '''Grande-Grave''', which thrived in the 19th century as a fish processing centre and site of the main offices of '''William Hyman and Sons'''. Grande-Grave was named for its large pebble beach (''grave'' in archaic French) which locals found to be an ideal site to dry and salt their catch in preparation for export to Europe. As well, there was a small farming and logging community at '''L'Anse-au-Griffon''', on what is today the north shore of the park. The Gaspesian fishing economy thrived into the beginning of the 20th century, but declining catches coupled with the impacts of the Great Depression and World War II brought the fishing industry into a sharp decline that it was never really able to extract itself from. The Canadian government's establishment of Forillon National Park in 1970 was extremely controversial: the private firm contracted to evict the 100 or so families who were living within the boundaries of the proposed park was said to have used bullying tactics to scare them into selling their land to the government at less than market value. The former residents of Forillon finally received an official apology from the government in 2011. The same year, Parks Canada introduced a program through which all entrance fees to Forillon were waived for those whose land was expropriated for the creation of the park, as well as their children and grandchildren (and spouses thereof), and which allows free access to cemeteries, former home sites, and other places of personal importance. Special commemorative events and reunions for former residents are also held occasionally. ===Landscape=== Forillon may be small in size, but there's a mind-boggling diversity of landscapes packed into it. Like the Gaspé Peninsula as a whole, the majority of the park's infrastructure (and visitors) hug the shoreline. Near the water you'll find the park's best-known feature: '''Cap Gaspé''', the rocky headland at the tip of the peninsula that gives the region its name (from ''gespeg'', a Mi'kmaq term meaning "land's end"). But that's just the beginning of the story: on Forillon's shores there are also fossil-rich seaside cliffs, dazzling rock formations (it's thought that the word ''forillon'' refers to an offshore sea stack that has since crumbled into the ocean), quiet pebble beaches where century-old fishing shacks still stand, salt marshes, and sand dunes. The park's boundaries also extend offshore for a short distance, protecting the rich eelgrass beds (most abundant in the shallows off La Penouille) and the abundant marine and bird life that live, feed and breed among them. Away from the water lies a different world entirely: the intrepid backcountry campers and hikers that penetrate the interior hinterlands (often via the [[International Appalachian Trail]], the mainland portion of which ends at Cap Gaspé) can lope over craggy mountains blanketed in thick forests, and fish in cool mountain lakes and fast-flowing, crystal-clear streams. ===Flora and fauna=== To match its wide range of landscapes, the park boasts an equally wide range of animal and plant life that are found in the various habitats. The diversity of Forillon's fauna is perhaps best displayed by its '''bird life''', with over 225 species making their home here for all or part of the year. Seabirds are especially numerous: the waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence are a copiously abundant food source for razorbill, black guillemot, double-crested cormorant, and, especially in the vicinity of {{marker|type=listing|name=Cap Bon-Ami|lat=48.808988|long=-64.220250}}, black-legged kittiwake. Other birds stay close to shore: on the wave-lapped pebble beaches you're liable to find specimens of sandpiper, common tern, osprey, and the great blue herons that flock to the salt marshes at La Penouille to feed. The shoreline is also home to four species of seal and porpoise, and whales — fin, humpback, minke, pilot, and even the elusive blue whale — are a common sight in nearby waters. [[File:Porcupine at Forillon.jpg|thumb|right|350px|The wooded interior of Forillon National Park is home to many of your typical Eastern North American forest creatures, like this porcupine that was spotted crossing '''Les Graves''' hiking trail.]] In Forillon's forested interior you'll find still more birds: an assortment of species common to eastern Canada such as thrushes, warblers, woodpeckers, and sparrows abound, and there are also rough-legged hawks, American kestrels, and other birds of prey. The forests are also home to beaver, red fox, coyote, red squirrel, ermine, porcupine, eastern chipmunk, moose, and black bear (see the [[#Stay safe|Stay safe]] section for more on the latter two). Speaking of the forest: thick stands of birch, maple, and balsam fir cover 95% of the surface area of the park, making up by one measure the bulk of its plant life. But Forillon's flora is, once again, diverse — much more so than at first blush. Higher up in the mountains as well as on the faces of the seaside cliffs, exposed to the full force of the winds that whip over the Gulf of St. Lawrence, you'll find plant life that's more typical of the Arctic tundra: Forillon's populations of purple mountain saxifrage, white dryad, and tufted saxifrage are relics from thousands of years ago, when the glaciers of the last Ice Age had only just begun to recede and the climate of the region was far colder than today. Closer to shore, the brackish waters around La Penouille and in other marshlands along the coast play host to salt meadow grass, Carolina sea lavender, and other plants that provide an important food source for shore birds, shallow-water fish, and insects. The eelgrass beds that lie just offshore are a similarly important component of Forillon's marine ecosystem. ===Climate=== Given its northerly latitude, Forillon's climate is surprisingly mild: the moderating influence of the Gulf of St. Lawrence tempers extremes of both summer heat and winter cold, and also assures ample precipitation all year round. If you're arriving from further-south Quebec, you'll notice it's quite a bit chillier than whence you came, with daytime highs seldom climbing much higher than 25°C (77°F) even in the height of summer, and overnight lows around 10°C (50°F). An interesting summertime phenomenon well-known to local sailors are the easterly '''thermal breezes''' that occur on Forillon's south shore in the morning and afternoon, caused by the confluence of the warm waters of Gaspé Bay with the cooler air of the open sea. These breezes generally reach their maximum strength — about 25-30 km/h (15-20 mph) — between 12:00 and 14:00, and die down by 18:00. Conversely, if you're planning to be one of the few wintertime visitors to this part of the world, you'll be happy to know that temperatures in Forillon are generally comparable to [[Montreal]] and actually a bit warmer than [[Quebec City]]: a typical January day sees a high of -7°C (20°F) and a low around -18°C (0°F). However, as in the rest of Gaspé, winters are ''extremely snowy'', with almost 4 metres (over 12 feet) of the white stuff falling on the park in the average year, generally between November and April. All park services shut down between mid-October and the beginning of June (see the [[#Fees and permits|Fees and permits]] section below) and mobile phone service is spotty, so if you get stuck in a blizzard you'll likely have to fend for yourself. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/qc/forillon/ Park website] Maps, brochures, and other park information are available in season at Forillon's two visitor centres: *{{marker|type=listing|name=L'Anse-au-Griffon Visitor Centre|lat=48.960136|long=-64.338884}} ''(Centre d'accueil et de renseignements L'Anse-au-Griffon)''. *{{marker|type=listing|name=La Penouille Visitor Centre|lat=48.856033|long=-64.412488}} ''(Centre d'accueil et de renseignements La Penouille)''. ==Get in== {{mapframe|48.870|-64.341|height=600|width=550|zoom=11}}{{mapshape}} ===By car=== As elsewhere in the Gaspé Peninsula, the main road to and from Forillon is '''Provincial Route 132''', a lasso-shaped route that circumnavigates the entire peninsula. If, like most visitors, you're arriving from the direction of Montreal or Quebec City, take '''Autoroute 20''' (A-20) eastbound to the end of the road at [[Trois-Pistoles]], where you'll pick up Route 132 heading toward the Gaspé. Forillon is 915 km (570 miles) from Montreal and 700 km (430 miles) from Quebec City — a 9½-hour and 7-hour drive respectively, assuming ideal traffic conditions — and stunning scenery abounds, especially the closer you get to the park. If you're arriving from the [[Atlantic Provinces|Maritimes]] or certain parts of eastern [[New England]], the route through [[New Brunswick]] may be a more direct alternative. Take New Brunswick Provincial Route 17 to [[Campbellton]], then cross the bridge into Quebec where you'll pick up Route 132 headed east through the [[Chaleur Bay]] region and Gaspé. Forillon is a little over four hours past the bridge, a distance of about 325 km (200 miles). Forillon's main entrance is located in the southern sector of the park at La Penouille, about 19 km (12 miles) from downtown Gaspé via Route 132 ''ouest'' (west). From there, it's another 14 km (9 miles) via Route 132 and '''Boulevard de Grande-Grave''' to the tollbooth at '''Petit-Gaspé''', where you pay the park entrance fee. There's also a secondary entrance and tollbooth in the northern sector at '''Cap-des-Rosiers''', which may be more useful to those travelling along the south shore of the St. Lawrence Estuary without stopping in Gaspé first. ===By plane=== In most cases, taking a flight to Forillon means landing at [[Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport]] ''(Aéroport international Pierre-Elliott-Trudeau)'' ({{IATA|YUL}}) in Montreal or [[Jean Lesage International Airport]] ''(Aéroport international Jean-Lesage)'' ({{IATA|YQB}}) in Quebec City, then continuing by car via A-20 and Route 132. Another option is to hop a connecting flight on Air Canada Express from either of those two airports to '''Michel Pouliot Airport''' ''(Aéroport Michel-Pouliot)'' ({{IATA|YGP}}) in Gaspé; round-trip ticket prices start at about $800 from Montreal-Trudeau and about $750 from Quebec City. (If you are coming from the [[Îles de la Madeleine]], there are direct flights from there as well.) There is a '''National''' car rental office on the airport property, as well as '''Budget''', '''Sauvageau''', and '''Thrifty''' facilities elsewhere in Gaspé, from which you can rent a car for the 20-minute drive from the airport to Forillon's main entrance at La Penouille. ===By bike=== The tentacles of the '''[http://www.routeverte.com/home Route Verte]''', Quebec's interconnected, provincewide network of dedicated bike paths and lanes that's the largest on the American continent, extend to Forillon as well. '''Route Verte 1''' enters the park from the north as a dedicated bike lane on the paved shoulder of Route 132. At [[L'Anse-au-Griffon]] the route veers sharply to the southwest and cuts perpendicularly across the interior of the park: along the shoulder of '''Chemin du Portage''' for the first 1.2 km (three-quarters of a mile), then roughly parallel to the '''L'Anse-au-Griffon River''' via the '''[[#Port|Le Portage hiking trail]]'''. Cyclists should beware of steep inclines along the interior portion of the trail, especially heading southward from the crest of the mountains toward Gaspé Bay. Route Verte 1 emerges on the other side of Forillon just east of La Penouille, then turning westward and heading out of the park toward Gaspé, again as a lane on the shoulder of Route 132. [[File:IAT-SIA Forillon National Park 2012.jpg|thumb|right|260px|The northernmost North American mainland leg of the '''International Appalachian Trail''' ''(Sentier international des Appalaches)'' runs through Forillon National Park.]] ===On foot=== [[Wilderness backpacking|Long-distance hikers]] can access Forillon National Park via the [[International Appalachian Trail]] (IAT; in French ''Sentier international des Appalaches'' or SIA), a northeastern extension of the U.S. [[Appalachian Trail]] that continues past Mount Katahdin in Maine through Canada, [[Greenland]], various countries of Western Europe, and [[Morocco]]. The Katahdin-to-Forillon sector of the IAT was the first to open to hikers, in 1995. {{anchor|IATforYGP}} From the west, the IAT enters Forillon at [[Rivière-Morris]], proceeding for about 37 km (22 miles) along the '''Les Lacs''' and '''Les Crêtes''' trails ([[#Difficult trails|see below]]) through the rugged, mountainous terrain of the park's interior, before emerging on the shore of Gaspé Bay at '''L'Anse-Blanchette'''. From there, the IAT runs concurrent with the '''Les Graves''' trail for another 8 km (5 miles) through somewhat easier terrain. The North American mainland portion of the IAT ends at Cap Gaspé, and the trail picks up again on the other side of the Gulf of St. Lawrence at [[Port aux Basques]], Newfoundland (there are no scheduled connections by boat). ===By bus=== The network of '''[http://regim.info/en/ RéGÎM]''', the rural transit organization that serves the region, includes a bus that passes through Forillon: '''[http://regim.info/voyage/21-anse-au-griffon-gaspe/ Route 21]''', which traverses Highway 132 from L'Anse-au-Griffon to '''Place Jacques-Cartier''' in downtown Gaspé. There is one departure in each direction every weekday, with stops at '''La Penouille Visitor Centre''' as well as '''Fort Peninsula'''. Gaspé-bound buses leave L'Anse-au-Griffon bright and early at 6:29AM, reaching La Penouille at 07:05 and arriving in Gaspé at 07:35. Return trips to L'Anse-au-Griffon depart Gaspé at 16:47, stopping at La Penouille at 17:10 and arriving in L'Anse-au-Griffon at 17:38. Fare is payable in cash ($4) or with tickets ($3 apiece, available in books of ten from participating retailers or directly from the bus drivers). If you're planning on making heavy use of RéGÎM during your stay in the Gaspé Peninsula, it might be useful to buy a prepaid Access Card (available online for $5), which are good for a whole month and entitle you to the same discounted $3 fare as tickets. Long-distance bus service in the Gaspé Peninsula is handled by [http://www.orleansexpress.com/en '''Orléans Express'''], which plies the same route through Forillon as the RéGÎM buses. There are no official stops within the park boundary, but passengers without checked luggage can be dropped off at the roadside anywhere along the route, subject to the driver's discretion. Coming from the direction of Gaspé, you'll want to purchase a ticket for [[Rivière-au-Renard]], the first stop. Buses depart from '''Motel-Restaurant Adams''' in downtown Gaspé every morning at 09:00; fare is $14.95 per person including tax. ===By boat=== For those visiting Forillon by boat, there's limited docking space at {{marker|type=go|name=Grande-Grave Wharf|lat=48.792667|long=-64.225859}} ''(Quai de Grande-Grave)''. Rates depend on the size of your boat: 90¢ per foot per day. ==Fees and permits== Daily (2024) * Adult $9.00/$4.50 * Senior $7.75/$3.75 * Youth and children free * Family/group $17.50/$9.00 Seasonal passes are available for less than the cost of 5 day passes, and less than the cost of 4 day passes if purchased late May and late June. In Quebec the term "national park" is used to describe two different categories of park, the distinction between which is important when it comes to annual passes. The term can refer either to parks run by Quebec's ''provincial'' park service, '''Sépaq''', or those run by the Canadian ''national'' government through '''Parks Canada''' (for the latter category, road signs and travel brochures in Quebec will generally use the term "National Park of Canada" so as to avoid confusion). Forillon is run by Parks Canada, which means that while your '''[http://www.commandesparcs-parksorders.ca/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/parksb2c/discovery-pass Parks Canada Discovery Pass]''' is good for admission to the park, the '''Annual Parks Quebec Network Card''' won't do you any good. Forillon National Park is open every year from late May to mid-October. If you're planning to visit during shoulder season (defined as the periods before June 25 and after Labour Day), keep in mind that the park operates with reduced services during those times — visitor centres, the gift shop, the snack bar, and many of the campgrounds and historic sites are closed — with entry fees discounted by around 25% to compensate. From October to May, Forillon is nominally closed; though it's possible (and free) to enter, all services are shut down and the park is completely unstaffed, so you're on your own. ==Get around== [[File:132Forillon.jpg|thumb|right|350px|'''Provincial Route 132''' traversing the interior of Forillon, near the '''La Chute''' trailhead.]] Being a relatively small park, getting from place to place within Forillon is a fairly straightforward proposition. With the exception of long-distance hikers and cyclists (''q.v.'' the [[#On foot|On foot]] and [[#By bike|By bike]] sections above, respectively), the vast majority of visitors to Forillon arrive at and travel through the park by car. Route 132 is the main artery though the park for cars: it enters the park at its northwest corner and runs parallel to the St. Lawrence Estuary as far as Cap-des-Rosiers, then cuts across the interior of the park in a hilly zigzag along the '''Montée Laurencelle''' before finally reaching the shore of Gaspé Bay at [[D'Aiguillon]], whereupon it makes a sharp turn back toward Gaspé. If you're driving Route 132 in this direction, signs will say ''est'' (east), though only on the part along the St. Lawrence Estuary will you actually be heading eastward. As well, '''Provincial Route 197''' runs from Rivière-au-Renard south to [[Saint-Majorique]], marking the western boundary of the national park, and '''Boulevard de Grande-Grave''' branches off Route 132 at D'Aiguillon, passing through Grande-Grave and ending in a cul-de-sac at '''L'Anse-aux-Amérindiens''', with access to the '''Les Graves''' trail to Cap Gaspé. Parking lots can be found next to the interpretation centres at La Penouille and Cap-des-Rosiers, as well as at Grande-Grave Wharf, Fort Peninsula, L'Anse-aux-Amérindiens, and L'Anse-au-Griffon near the north park entrance. ==See== ===Grande-Grave Heritage Site ''(Site patrimonial de Grande-Grave)''=== Parks Canada has restored many of the homes and other buildings that once made up the fishing village of Grande-Grave. Today, they serve as museums whose exhibits cover the economic importance of the Gulf of St. Lawrence cod fishery and the daily life of area residents of old. * {{see | name=Blanchette House | alt=Maison Blanchette | url= | email= | address=Boulevard de Grande-Grave, L'Anse-Blanchette | lat=48.787304 | long=-64.218207 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Jun 20-Sep 7: daily 10:00-17:00; Sep 8-13: daily 10:00-16:00 | price= | lastedit=2015-08-28 | content=Built in 1901 and now listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places, this brightly-colored cottage was once the home of the Blanchette family, a typical Gaspesian household of the day whose patriarch, Xavier, made his living catching, drying and selling the cod he caught in the waters of Gaspé Bay and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The Blanchette House has been painstakingly restored inside and out with rooms furnished in authentic early-20th century style, and it's staffed daily in season by tour guides in period costume who'll lead you through the house, fish shed, and woodshed. Tours conclude in the barn, where the short interpretive video, "We Always Looked to the Sea" ''(On regardait toujours vers la mer)'', is screened continuously. }}{{anchor|DRH}} [[File:Maison Dolbel Roberts - Forillon National Park.jpg|thumb|right|350px|The '''Dolbel-Roberts House''' ''(Maison Dolbel-Roberts)'']] * {{see | name=Dolbel-Roberts House | alt=Maison Dolbel-Roberts | url= | email= | address=Boulevard de Grande-Grave, Grande-Grave | lat=48.793029 | long=-64.223697 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Jun 20-Sep 7: daily 11:00-17:00| price= | lastedit=2015-08-28 | content=Home to successive generations of the Dolbel and Roberts families from 1915 until 1970, this restored building is now a museum whose permanent exhibit, "Gaspesians from Land's End" ''(Ces Gaspésiens du bout du monde)'', covers the rich tapestry of communities who have made their home over the years at the east end of the Gaspé Peninsula: from the Mi'kmaq Indians who have lived here from time immemorial, to the intrepid Québécois and Acadian settlers of New France, to the British, Irish and Channel Islander fishing families who moved in after the conquest of Quebec in 1760, to newer arrivals such as Italians and Jews. As well, with the cooperation of a number of former residents, the museum also tells the unfortunate and still-controversial story of the families whose homes were expropriated by the Canadian government in 1970 to create the national park. }} * {{see | name=Hyman & Sons General Store | alt=Magasin Hyman & Sons | url= | email= | address=Boulevard de Grande-Grave, Grande-Grave | lat=48.791246 | long=-64.222925 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= Jun 20-Sep 7: daily 10:00-17:00; May 30-Jun 19 & Sep 8-Oct 12: daily 10:00-16:00 | price= | lastedit=2015-08-28 | content=Built by William Hyman, a Russian Jewish merchant who settled in Grande-Grave in 1864, this duo of handsome buildings on the shore of Gaspé Bay were a centre of the town's community life in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Out of these premises Hyman operated a business that was eventually the main employer in Grande-Grave: an enterprise comprised of the town's main general store, selling imported household goods of all kinds, as well as a fishing business that was the chief rival in the region to the [[Paspébiac]]-based '''Charles Robin Company''' which controlled a great majority of the Gulf of St. Lawrence cod fishery at the time. Today, the interior of the store has been restored to its late-19th century appearance, with antique goods on the shelves ranging from clothing to porcelain table service to patent medicines to farm implements. As well, museum exhibits are contained in the former Hyman family living quarters on the second floor of the main building as well as the fish warehouse a few steps down the hill, which detail the various ways of life practised by Grande-Grave residents of the day, extracting their needs from the land and sea on a seasonal basis through fishing, logging, and small-scale farming. There's also a short film, "Time and Tide Remembered" ''(Mémoire de sel)'', screened in a small room just off the floor of the general store. }} ===Other points of interest=== {{anchor|CGLH}} * {{see | name=Cap-Gaspé Lighthouse | alt=Phare du Cap-Gaspé | url= | email= | address=at east end of [[#Moderate-difficulty trails|Les Graves trail]] | lat=48.751052 | long=-64.162688 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-08-28 | content=Standing atop seaside bluffs that loom 95 m (310 feet) over the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Cap-Gaspé Lighthouse marks the final "land's end" of the Gaspé Peninsula. Built to ward incoming ships away from '''Flowerpot Rock''', a reef located just off the south shore of the cape, the current Cap-Gaspé Lighthouse is the third to stand on the site: built in 1950 to replace a shorter wood-frame structure that collapsed four years earlier, which in turn was a replacement for the original 1873 lighthouse that was lost to fire. Today, the lighthouse is fully automated and run on solar power, and accessible on foot or by bike. }} * {{see | name=Fort Peninsula | alt=Fort Péninsule | url= | email= | address=1.2 km (0.7 miles) east of La Penouille via Route 132 | lat=48.852965 | long=-64.396162 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-08-28 | content=Quebec's only fully preserved World War II-era shoreline battery, Fort Peninsula was one of the three fixed defences that comprised '''HMCS Fort Ramsay''', a naval base established in 1942 by the Canadian military to defend against Nazi U-Boat attacks, to ensure the safety of merchant vessels passing through the region, and to serve as a refuge for the British Royal Navy in the event that Hitler's forces were to successfully conquer the UK. Naturally sheltered by the rocky spits and shallows of La Penouille and Sandy Beach, nineteen warships were based here, serving a key role in waging the '''Battle of the St. Lawrence''' which saw 23 Allied vessels sunk by German subs off Canada's east coast. Today, visitors can walk through the underground corridors of the fortification and observe the vintage gun mortars and other artillery still pointed seaward, and read descriptive panels along the way that explain the strategic military importance of the Gaspé Peninsula during the Second World War. Outside, there's a pleasant seaside picnic area. }}{{anchor|MSAOT}} * {{see | name=Mont-Saint-Alban Observation Tower | alt=Tour d'observation du Mont-Saint-Alban | url= | email= | address=accessible via Mont-Saint-Alban trail | lat=48.811078 | long=-64.226914 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-01 | content=At the end of the moderate-difficulty [[#MSA|hiking trail]] up Mont-Saint-Alban lies an observation tower 10 m (33 feet) in height, affording hikers 360-degree panoramic views over Forillon and the surrounding area — including '''Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse''', '''Cap Bon-Ami''', '''Cap Gaspé''', and, of course, the open waters of the St. Lawrence Estuary, Gaspé Bay, and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. On a clear day, you can even see [[Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock National Park|Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock]] in the far distance. }} ==Do== ===On land=== ====Hiking==== [[File:La Chute - Forillon National Park.jpg|thumb|350px|The waterfall ''(chute)'' on Cap-des-Rosiers Brook that gives '''La Chute Trail''' its name.]] The diverse landscapes of Forillon are crisscrossed by hiking trails of all levels of difficulty, from the easy-peasy ten-minute loop around the boardwalk of '''Prélude à Forillon''' to the multi-day backcountry adventure along the ridge of the Chic-Choc mountains that is the '''Les Lacs''', '''Les Crêtes''', and '''Les Graves''' combination trail, which together make up Forillon's stretch of the International Appalachian trail ''([[#On foot|q.v.]])'' Markers on the map indicate the location of the trailheads. =====Easy trails===== * {{do | name=La Chute Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.843517 | long=-64.266034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-07 | content=Located in the park's mountainous interior between Cap-des-Rosiers and Cap-aux-Os, this one-km (0.6-mile) loop descends the steep valley of a babbling brook, passing by a lovely waterfall tucked away in a grove of maple and cedar trees. This easy trail is marked with a wooden boardwalk for much of the way, but features some steep steps. }}{{anchor|PAF}} * {{do | name=Prélude à Forillon Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.838239 | long=-64.214153 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-07 | content=The name of this trail, which translates to "A Prelude to Forillon", is no misnomer: this 600-m (0.3-mile) boardwalk behind the '''North Area Interpretation Centre''' ''(Centre d'interprétation du secteur nord)'' provides a bird's-eye view over all of the park's diverse landscapes, forest-carpeted mountains and cliff-lined seashores alike. Multisensory interpretation modules are on hand to further elucidate what you're seeing and help you get a sense of what Forillon is all about. Prélude à Forillon is the easiest trail in the park, and the only one that is fully wheelchair-accessible. }} * {{do | name=La Taïga Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.851935 | long=-64.428347 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-07 | content=On the pancake-flat sand spit of La Penouille, this trail passes through one of the furthest-south stretches of boreal forest on the planet. The taiga that gives the trail its name is a fascinating ecosystem of lichen-crusted trees, rare and endangered plants such as the daisy-leaf moonwort, and marsh birds feeding in the brackish offshore shallows (bring your own binoculars to the viewing blind at the edge of the marsh to observe these guys unobtrusively). The trail begins on the side of the access road 1 km (0.6 miles) past the visitor centre parking lot and proceeds for 1.5 km (0.9 miles) ending at a point further along the access road, making for a loop of 2.8 km (1.7 miles) total. As the taiga is a fragile environment that's extremely sensitive to human intrusion, hikers need to stay on the marked trails. }} * {{do | name=Une Tournée dans les Parages | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-07 | content=This 3-km (2-mile) loop through the '''Grande-Grave Heritage Site''' begins at the parking lot next to '''Grande-Grave Wharf'''. Starting with a rather steep uphill climb back toward the road and further inland, you'll pass through open fields dotted with handsome saltbox houses that once belonged to the fishing families that made their living for generations on the cod that teemed in the waters off Forillon. You can check out the [[#DRH|museum exhibits]] in the restored '''Dolbel-Roberts House''' and '''Hyman & Sons Warehouse''' that trace the history of Grande-Grave as a fishing community, or just enjoy the ubiquitous panoramic views over Gaspé Bay. }} =====Moderate-difficulty trails===== [[File:CapGaspéLH-070912.jpg|thumb|right|233px|Your reward at the end of '''Les Graves''' trail is this beautiful sight: the '''Cap-Gaspé Lighthouse''' ''(Phare du Cap-Gaspé)''.]] * {{do | name=Les Graves Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-08 | content=''Grave'' (more commonly spelt ''grève'') is an archaic French word referring to a pebble or gravel beach, and hikers on this path can certainly see their share of those as they meander between the inland forest and the edge of the shoreline bluffs on their way to land's end at Cap-Gaspé, where the eponymous '''[[#CGLH|Cap-Gaspé Lighthouse]]''' awaits with sweeping views over the open waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Les Graves Trail begins at Grande-Grave Wharf and extends 7.6 km (4.7 miles) one-way to land's end, but hikers who'd rather do an abbreviated version of the trail can begin at the alternate trailhead located at the end of the asphalt road at {{marker|type=listing|name=L'Anse-aux-Amérindiens|lat=48.769286|long=-64.193613}} (limited parking available), from which point Cap-Gaspé is a 4-km (2.5-mile) hike one-way. Hikers should allow 4½ hours and 2½ hours round-trip, from Grande-Grave and L'Anse-aux-Amérindiens respectively. The trail is paved in gravel for much of the way, especially closer to Grande-Grave, but the steep ascents as you approach Cap-Gaspé may prove a challenge for novice hikers. }}{{anchor|MSA}} * {{do | name=Mont-Saint-Alban Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-08 | content=For a slog up a mountain 283 m (934 feet) above sea level, the Mont-Saint-Alban Trail is surprisingly easy — especially once you've got the steep ascents near the shore under your belt. As you climb through the alpine forest that clings to the mountainsides, you'll be blown away by stunning overlooks at seemingly every turn — but the most magnificent of them are saved for the grand finale, at the top of the [[#MSAOT|observation tower]] at the summit. Mont-Saint-Alban is accessible from two separate starting points at opposite sides of the park: head to the south trailhead at {{marker|type=listing|name=Petit-Gaspé Beach|lat=48.805440|long=-64.245166}} ''(Plage de Petit-Gaspé)'' for a more gradual and leisurely ascent, while the north trailhead at '''Cap Bon-Ami''' kicks off a short, steep climb. If you choose to continue past the observation tower, there's a loop trail that rings the base of the mountain; the total distance is 7.2 km (4.5 miles) from Petit-Gaspé and 7.8 km (4.8 miles) from Cap Bon-Ami. If you'd rather just do the observation tower and back, the round trip is 5.4 km (3.4 miles) from Petit-Gaspé and 3.8 km (2.4 miles) from Cap Bon-Ami. }}{{anchor|Port}} * {{do | name=Le Portage Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-22 | content=This all-day hike (seven hours round-trip) through the dense mountain forest leads you over the ridge of the Chic-Chocs from one side of the park to the other via a steep valley carved by the Anse-au-Griffon River and other waterways, where bears, moose, and other woodland wildlife abound. Le Portage Trail is wide, paved with gravel, stretches 10 km (6.25 miles) in length, and shares a northern terminus with its companion trail described below: the {{marker|type=do|name=Le Portage/La Vallée north trailhead|lat=48.929782|long=-64.322585}} is located in L'Anse-au-Griffon, 1.4 km (0.9 miles) off Route 132 at the end of Chemin du Portage. The {{marker|type=do|name=Le Portage south trailhead|lat=48.859219|long=-64.381547}} is located at the '''Operational Centre''' ''(Centre opérationnel)'' east of Fort Peninsula. }} * {{do | name=La Vallée Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-22 | content=A shorter and somewhat less wild alternative to Le Portage, the gravel-paved La Vallée Trail passes through a similarly forested milieu on the other side of the river but boasts a pair of picnic areas and a shelter. The {{marker|type=do|name=La Vallée south trailhead|lat=48.902030|long=-64.350404}} is located at a junction with Le Portage trail about 4 km (2.5 miles) from its northern terminus; like its counterpart, it ends at the parking lot at the end of Chemin du Portage in L'Anse-au-Griffon. You can hike it from one end to the other and back for a 9.2-km (5.8-mile) round trip, or combine it with the northern part of Le Portage to form an 8.6-km (5.3-mile) loop that crosses the river twice. Either way, plan for about 2½ hours overall. }} =====Difficult trails===== Together with '''Les Graves''' trail ([[#Moderate-difficulty trails|listed]] above as a moderate-difficulty trail), the two trails below comprise Forillon's segment of the International Appalachian Trail, and both are generally through-hiked consecutively in one direction or the other. A round-trip hike from the Les Lacs trailhead in Rivière-Morris to '''Cap Gaspé''' and back could be done in two very long days, but three days is probably more reasonable. Lean-to shelters and backcountry campsites are available; see the [[#Sleep|Sleep]] section for details. * {{do | name=Les Crêtes Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.866787 | long=-64.379980 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-22 | content=The middle sector of the three-in-one trail that extends across Forillon lengthwise takes you along the crests (''crêtes'' in French) of the mountain ridge on the spine of the peninsula, through a wooded and mountainous milieu with panoramic highland vistas and distant glimpses of Gaspé Bay and the St. Lawrence Estuary popping their heads up frequently. It's a distance of 18.2 km (11.3 miles) from the trailhead near the operational centre to Petit-Gaspé Beach where the '''Les Graves''' trail picks up: a hike of 6½ hours one-way. }} * {{do | name=Les Lacs Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.959342 | long=-64.466766 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-09-22 | content=This trail takes its name from the many pristine mountain lakes hikers pass as they climb, dip, and meander their way through the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains. Watch out for black bears and other wildlife as you make your way through the boreal forest, and take time out to admire the scenic mountaintop views (the ones in the Morris River valley near the trail's west end are a particular highlight). Les Lacs trail extends 17.6 km (10.9 miles) from the park's western boundary at Rivière-Morris to its junction with the '''Le Portage''' trail, where the Les Crêtes trail picks up. Allow 6 hours one-way. }} ====Cycling==== Aside from the '''Route Verte''' that's [[#By bike|described above]], cyclists have several other options in Forillon. There's a short, asphalt-paved loop trail at '''La Penouille''' for those with a relaxed and easygoing two-wheeled outing in mind, while seasoned mountain bikers looking for a challenge can share the hillier, gravel-paved '''Le Portage''' and '''La Vallée''' trails ''([[#Port|q.v.]])'', as well as the eastern half of the '''[[#Moderate-difficulty trails|Les Graves Trail]]''' (beginning at '''L'Anse-aux-Amérindiens'''), with hikers. ====Sports==== The {{marker|type=listing|name=Petit-Gaspé Recreation Centre|lat=48.805580|long=-64.250110}} ''(Centre récréatif Petit-Gaspé)'' has tennis and volleyball courts, as well as a playground for children. It's open yearly between June 13 and September 13, 10:00-17:00. ====Horseback riding==== In addition to hikers and mountain bikers, '''Le Portage''', '''La Vallée''', and the eastern portion of '''Les Graves Trail''' are open to horseback riders. ====Winter activities==== Since 2014, through a partnership between Parks Canada and '''[[Gaspé#lgcc|Le Griffon Cultural Centre]]''' ''(Centre culturel Le Griffon)'', '''La Vallée''' and '''Le Portage Trails''' have been groomed in the winter for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and (on Le Portage only) dogsledding. In addition to the trails themselves, the parking areas at either end of Le Portage trail are plowed to furnish access for those arriving by car, as is a 4-km (2.5-mile) stretch of '''Boulevard de Grande-Grève''' that leads to the '''South Sector Visitor Centre''' ''(Centre d'accueil du secteur Sud)'' in Grande-Grave, which is open as a rest and warm-up stop for skiers. The '''Répit Nord''' shelter near the midpoint of La Vallée trail also remains open, but it's important to note that there are no off-season maintenance staff to clean up after visitors, so [[Leave-no-trace camping|leave-no-trace principles]] apply. ===In the water=== ====Swimming==== The '''Petit-Gaspé Recreation Centre''' contains a heated outdoor pool patrolled by lifeguards, as well as a wading pool for kids. These facilities are open yearly from June 20 through August 28 at a price of $9.60 for adults, $8.50 for seniors, $8.25 for children age 6 to 16, and free to children 5 and under (2024). For whose who'd prefer to swim in the ocean, opportunities are concentrated on the south shore of the park, in Gaspé Bay, shallower parts of which sometimes warm up enough to take a dip. Foremost among these is {{marker|type=do|name=Penouille Beach|lat=48.849009|long=-64.435904}} ''(Plage de Penouille)'', on the eponymous sandspit that's surrounded by the shallow, protected waters of the bay. There's a park shuttle bus that will take you from the visitors' centre to the beach for $1.25. The beach has no lifeguards, but it's within easy walking distance of such Penouille-area amenities as the snack bar, the Parks Canada gift shop, and the '''ÉcoRécréo''' [[#Stand-up paddleboarding|rental centre]] where beach accessories such as chairs, umbrellas, and toys are stocked. Swimmers are required to stay away from the floating dock and the ecologically sensitive salt marshes, and should watch out for kiteboarders and personal watercraft that come and go from the area. ====Whale-watching==== * {{do | name=Croisières Baie-de-Gaspé | alt= | url=http://www.baleines-forillon.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 418-892-5500 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=See website for schedule | price=$85, children age 4-15 $63, children 3 and under free; national park entry fee not included | lastedit=2025-01-05 | content=Operating out of '''Grande-Grave Wharf''' from June 1 through Thanksgiving weekend, Croisières Baie-de-Gaspé offers bilingual whale-watching cruises in a 48-passenger, handicap-accessible aluminum boat (the ''Narval III'') that is specially designed to safely approach whales at closer proximity than other boats, giving passengers an up-close-and-personal look at these massive creatures from the comfort of a large, well-equipped vessel. The waters surrounding Forillon are home to seven species of whale, as well as playful dolphins and harbour seals that passengers often see sunning themselves on offshore rocks — and as the only whale-watching cruise authorized to operate within the national park, there's a refreshing lack of tour boat traffic and other cacophonous brouhaha to muck up your experience (just what the doctor ordered if you're arriving from touristy [[Percé]]). Standard cruises last 2½ hours and cover both the north and south shore of Forillon, furnishing good views not only of sea life but also of the '''Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse''' ''(Phare de Cap-des-Rosiers)'' and '''The Old Man''' ''(Le Vieux)'', a vaguely anthropomorphic sea stack that stands just off Cap Gaspé. Private charters are also available, which will take you to the seabird colony at Cap Bon-Ami or even as far as Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock. Cruises leave rain or shine, and binoculars and rain gear are available for rental. }} [[File:GrandeGraveWharfForillon.jpg|thumb|350px|When it comes to activities on the water, '''Grande-Grave Wharf''' is Forillon's focal point: a steady stream of whale-watching cruise boats, Zodiac-based snorkelling excursions, and even sea kayaks put in and shove off from these docks every day of the season.]] ====Snorkelling and scuba diving==== * {{do | name=Plongée Forillon | alt= | url=http://www.plongeeforillon.com/indexE.html | email= | address=2448, boulevard de Grande-Grève, Gaspé | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 418-892-5888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Jul Aug: daily 08:00-17:00 | price=Half-day rental: $50, taxes included | lastedit=2025-01-06 | content=If undersea diving is your cup of tea, Plongée Forillon is worth checking out: rain or shine from July 1 to September 1. Rent a full set of snorkel equipement (full wetsuit, fins, mask, snorkel) from their kiosk. }} ====Fishing==== Though it was the mainstay of the region's economy for centuries, today '''Grande-Grave Wharf''' is the only place in Forillon where fishing is allowed. The cod that teemed in Gaspé Bay are long-gone, victims of a population collapse in the early 1990s that hit Canada's east coast economy hard, but anglers still fish for several other saltwater species here — most notably mackerel, which in Forillon can be caught without a permit. Mackerel fishers are subject to a daily catch limit of ten fish — this includes those caught for consumption as well as catch-and-release — and can only use one line at a time, with a single or triple hook. If you don't have your own, poles can be rented from '''Cap Aventure''' ([[#Sea kayaking|see below]]). Also keep in mind that Grande-Grave Wharf is an active harbour, so keep your fishing line away from the boats and other watercraft that come and go, as well as the divers you'll sometimes see. If you intend to fish for other species that frequent the area, such as capelin and Atlantic salmon, restrictions may apply. Consult the websites of '''[https://inter-l01-uat.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/infoceans/en/recreational-fisheries Fisheries and Oceans Canada]''' and the '''[http://peche.faune.gouv.qc.ca/?lang=en Quebec Ministry of Forests, Wildlife and Parks]''' ''(Ministère des forêts, de la faune et des parcs du Québec)'' for more specific federal and provincial regulations, respectively, about your species of choice. ====Sea kayaking==== * {{do | name=Cap Aventure | alt= | url=http://www.capaventure.net/company-landing-2/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 418-892-5056 | tollfree= | hours="Meet the Seals" excursion departs daily 08:00, "Cap Gaspé" excursion departs 07:00 on prior request, "Around Forillon" excursion departs 06:30 on prior request. Sunset excursion: varies between 15:00 and 17:30 (depending on sunset) | price=(''Not including taxes or park admission'') "Meet the Seals": adult $76, student $6, child (15 years and under) $39; Cap-Gaspé: adult $85, student $79 taxes; Forillon Tower: adult $139, student $123 | lastedit=2025-01-07 | content=Opportunities for the adventurous visitor to Forillon don't come much better than Cap Aventure's guided kayak tours. To call what they offer "seal-watching excursions" wouldn't do them justice: much more than just another touristy trifle, these tours are true educational experiences, where seasoned guides put their affiliation with the Marine Mammal Watchers' Network ''(Réseau d'observateurs des mammifères marins)'' to good use in providing a window into the delicate ecosystem of Gaspé Bay, conducted in a manner that is sustainable and respectful of the natural environment. It's not all dry academia, though — the learning experience is punctuated daily by unforgettable sights like a pod of seals dancing and playing around your boat, the plaintive bellow of whales breaching in the distance, and seabirds by the hundreds taking flight from the top of the sheer seaside cliffs. Cap Aventure offers a range of excursions tailored to customers' individual needs: the short '''Meet the Seals''' ''(Rencontre avec les phoques)'' excursion is open to participants five and older and sticks to the interior of Gaspé Bay, while longer tours round Cap Gaspé into the estuary or even pass southward down the Gaspesian coast as far as Bonaventure Island. The '''Seals at Sunset''' ''(Phoques au coucher du soleil)'' excursion is especially popular. All excursions depart from '''[[Gaspé#CAOB|Cap-aux-Os Beach]]''' just outside the park boundary, with the exception of the '''Cap-Gaspé''' tour, which leaves directly from '''Grande-Grave Wharf''', and '''Around Forillon''' ''(Pourtour de Forillon)'' which leaves from Cap-des-Rosiers. }} ====Whale-watching Zodiac tour==== * {{do | name=Cap Aventure | alt= | url=http://www.capaventure.net/company-landing-2/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 418-892-5056 | tollfree= | hours=From Gaspé-Forillon departs 09:00, 13:00, and between 15:00 and 17:30 (depending on e sunset); from Gaspé-Percé drafts 08:30, evening departure on request | price=(''Not including taxes or park admission'') Gaspé-Forillon (3 hr): adult $82, student $77, child $49 (15 years and under); Gaspé-Percé (4½ hr): adult $149, student $145, child (15 years and under) $140 | lastedit=2025-01-07 | content="Zodiac Safaris" out to the seal colonies in a 12-passenger boat helmed by an experienced captain-cum-docent. The season runs begins May 8 (June 1 for zodiac excursions) and runs through October 6, and wetsuits are provided during the spring and fall. Website in French only. }} ====Stand-up paddleboarding==== * {{do | name=Cap Aventure | alt= | url=https://capaventureforillon.net/planche-a-pagaie/ | email= | address=1228 Boulevard Forillon, Gaspé | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 418-892-5055 | tollfree= | hours=Summer only | price=Two-hour SUP sunset excursion: adult $55 + taxes, child $25 + taxes (15 years and under) | lastedit=2025-01-06 | content=The Forillon branch, located at '''La Penouille Visitor Centre''', is perhaps best known for offering stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) — a new-school watersport that's perhaps best compared to surfing with an oar. }} ==Buy== There's a small '''gift shop''' at the visitor centre at La Penouille, with a modest selection of souvenirs and other paraphernalia. It's open from June 20 through September 7. There is also a '''convenience store''' at the '''Petit-Gaspé Recreation Centre''' open from June 13 through September 13, that stocks a range of gear tailored to the various recreational activities offered by the park. ==Eat and drink== The '''La Penouille Visitor Centre''' and the '''Petit-Gaspé Recreation Centre''' each contain a snack bar serving a limited selection of simple fare off the grill. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== While there are no hotels or motels within Forillon, there are [[Gaspé#Sleep|numerous options]] in the adjacent city of Gaspé and [[Percé#Sleep|also quite a few]] a short distance south in Percé. See the linked article sections for specific details. ===Camping=== Forillon has three campgrounds, containing serviced (with electricity, water, and sewer), semi-serviced (with electricity only), and primitive sites. As of 2024, nightly rates are $36, $33, and $28.50, respectively, not including the park admission fee. Parks Canada accommodates "glampers" at Forillon with about a dozen so-called '''oTENTik''' tents at the Des-Rosiers and Petit-Gaspé campgrounds: ready-made campsites perfect for those who want a taste of the outdoor experience without giving up all their creature comforts. * {{sleep | name=Cap Bon-Ami Campground | alt=Camping Cap-Bon-Ami | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.815572 | long=-64.223809 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-10-18 | content=Open June 19 through September 6. Perfect for those in search of a primitive camping experience, this is about the closest experience to the backcountry that Forillon offers without actually being in the backcountry. In a cliffside clearing next to the '''Mont-Saint-Alban''' trailhead lie 38 unserviced sites for tents. }} * {{sleep | name=Des-Rosiers Campground | alt=Camping Des-Rosiers | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.829341 | long=-64.222821 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-05 | content=Open May 30 through October 11. Des-Rosiers campground comprises 147 lots, both with and without electric hookups, in a wooded milieu in the north sector of the park. There's a playground for kids nearby, a dumping station located at the campground entrance, and water outlets also available. Des-Rosiers campground also includes eight '''oTENTik''' tents of the "Basic Service" variety — furnished indoors with three beds, a table, four chairs and a bench, and with a picnic bench, campfire pit, and parking for two vehicles outside — that are available at a rate of $148/night. }} * {{sleep | name=Petit-Gaspé Campground | alt=Camping Petit-Gaspé | url= | email= | address= | lat=48.809112 | long=-64.256219 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-01-05 | content=Open June 19 through September 6. If you want a secluded wilderness experience, look elsewhere — but if you want to be within an easy walk of a gaggle of fun activities, Petit-Gaspé may be the campground for you. Forillon's largest campground (with 167 sites) is located a short distance away from the '''Petit-Gaspé Recreation Centre''', with a playground, swimming pool, snack bar, tennis and volleyball courts, and numerous other amenities. As at Des-Rosiers, sites come with or without electricity, and dumping stations and water outlets are provided. Petit-Gaspé's '''Loop F''' is made up of seven '''oTENTik''' tents, where, for a price of $133/night, those who've opted for the "Ready-to-Camp" package can avail themselves of all the amenities provided by the basic service plus indoor heating, electricity, a small fridge, dishes and utensils, and a hotplate (cooking allowed outdoors only). }} ====Backcountry==== Long-distance hikers along the '''Les Lacs'''/'''Les Crêtes''' combination trail can avail themselves of three backcountry campsites ($13.50 person/night in 2024), which have basic amenities such as dry toilets and picnic tables. In addition, two of these campsites also include '''lean-to shelters''' that each sleep four, perfect for those who haven't brought along their own tents. Campsites must be reserved in advance — call +1 418-368-5505 to book, or make your reservation on the spot at any park entrance or visitor centre. Lean-to shelters cost $16.75/person/night (2024), but camping is free if you use your own tent. Open-air wood fires are prohibited in the backcountry, so if you're planning on cooking food, bring a portable cookstove. *{{marker|type=sleep|name=Backcountry campsite with lean-to shelter|lat=48.896148|long=-64.413399}} ''(Les Lacs trail)'' *{{marker|type=sleep|name=Backcountry campsite without lean-to shelter|lat=48.863911|long=-64.329018}} ''(Les Crêtes trail)'' *{{marker|type=sleep|name=Backcountry campsite with lean-to shelter|lat=48.848789|long=-64.304649}} ''(Les Crêtes trail)'' ==Stay safe== *If you'll be hiking and camping in Forillon's '''backcountry''', you should already know to get educated about the terrain you're planning to cross: topographic maps are often an essential [[Packing for a week of hiking|item for long-distance hikers to pack]]. It also pays to bring along plenty of water and perhaps a first-aid kit — cell-phone service in Forillon is spotty and there isn't exactly an abundance of other backcountry hikers on those trails, so medical treatment may be hard to come by. Check out Wikivoyage's article on [[wilderness backpacking]] for more tips. *One of the main attractions in Forillon is the wildlife that calls the park home, but some of these animals can pose dangers to visitors if not dealt with properly. Although they're not usually interested in much beyond rummaging through your trash, it pays to keep in mind that Forillon is '''black bear''' country. To keep this from happening, a good idea is to triple-bag (at least) your garbage — along with food, cooking utensils, and anything else that may smell appetizing to bears — and hang it up at least 5 m (16 feet) off the ground and at least 100 m (330 feet) downwind of your campsite. However, if you've got a mother bear who feels protective of her cubs, then it's a different story and you've got a potentially dangerous situation on your hands. Loud noises will generally scare a bear off in this situation — try clanging a pair of garbage can lids together — and if that doesn't work, back away from the animal slowly and without making any sudden movements. Bear repellent spray is another possible option — contrary to popular belief, it is legal in Canada so long as the package clearly states that it's intended for use against animals. *'''Moose''' are another species native to Forillon that can pose a hazard. Not only can a mother moose defending her young be as aggressive as any bear, but moose crossing the road in front of speeding cars are also responsible for scores of injuries or deaths every year in the Gaspé Peninsula. Being much taller and heavier than deer and other types of roadkill you may be used to, moose that are struck by cars are likely to collapse right on top of you, enhancing the potential for damage to your vehicle (or you). Drivers in Forillon should keep to a reasonable speed, always wear their safety belt, and use high beams at night when it's safe to do so. If you're visiting late in the season, around September or October when moose are at their most active, this goes double. *Speaking of driving: if you're here for the [[#Winter activities|cross-country skiing]] offered in the '''winter''' (or if you've just decided to ignore the annual October 12 closing date), be extra careful on the roads. The cold and snow of Gaspesian winters are legendary even by Canadian standards, so in the cold months it pays to drive slowly, keep a safe distance from the car in front of you, and adapt your car travel plans to the changing weather conditions. In a pinch, an emergency kit can also be a godsend. See [[Winter driving]] for more tips. *In case of '''medical emergency''', the [[Gaspé#Health care|nearest hospital]] is in Gaspé. ==Go next== *Unless you've arrived [[#By boat|by boat]], you're not going anywhere out of Forillon without first passing through [[Gaspé]] — this largest city, unofficial capital, and commercial centre of the Gaspé Peninsula borders the park on all landward sides. While Gaspé is a lot less "touristy" in the traditional sense than many of the region's other towns, there are a handful of attractions for visitors: you can learn about Gaspesian history and culture at the '''Gaspé Regional Museum''' ''(Musée de la Gaspésie)''; visit the '''Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse''' ''(Phare de Cap-des-Rosiers)'', Canada's tallest at 34 m (112 feet) in height which stands not far from the boundary of Forillon (if you visited the [[#MSAOT|Mont-Saint-Alban Observation Tower]] or hiked the [[#PAF|Prélude à Forillon]] trail while visiting the park, you've likely already caught a glimpse of it in the distance); or relax on one of several pleasant beaches. *Venture out further along Route 132 ''ouest'', and about 2 hours after Gaspé you'll come to [[Sainte-Anne-des-Monts]]. Besides being a convenient roadside stop with service stations, restaurants, and motels aplenty, here you have world-class salmon fishing on the '''Sainte-Anne River''', kitesurfing at '''Cartier Beach''', and an annual driftwood sculpture festival in August. However, Sainte-Anne-des-Monts is most notable to travellers as the gateway to... *[[Gaspésie National Park]], 80 km² (31 square miles) of pristine wilderness nestled in the highest heights of the Chic-Choc Mountains, about half an hour south of Sainte-Anne-des-Monts via '''Provincial Route 299'''. Backcountry adventurers who tackled the mountains of Forillon on '''Les Lacs''' and '''Les Crêtes''' trails will find even more thrilling challenges awaiting them at Gaspésie, including the granddaddy of them all — the 100-km (62-mile) '''Grande Traversée''' to Mont Jacques-Cartier, which passes through the territory of the last caribou herd south of the St. Lawrence on its way to the Chic-Chocs' highest peak. Fishing and kayaking on '''Cascapédia Lake''', mountain biking, and — in winter — exciting Alpine skiing and snowboarding in five separate ski areas are on tap as well. *Head in the other direction down Route 132 and the next place you'll come to is [[Percé]], an unabashed tourist town whose bustle may be jarring for those who've grown used to the majestic solitude of Forillon (and most of the rest of the Gaspé Peninsula). But the crowds come for a good reason: Percé is home to the eponymous '''Percé Rock''' ''(Rocher Percé)'', a naturally arch-shaped offshore rock formation that's become the iconic emblem of the Gaspé Peninsula, which together with the seabird haven of '''Bonaventure Island''' ''(Île Bonaventure)'' make up [[Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock National Park|yet another entry]] in the Gaspé's roster of national parks. {{routebox | image1=Qc132.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Rimouski]] | minorl1=[[Grande-Vallée and Petite-Vallée|Petite-Vallée]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Rimouski]] | minorr1='''[[Gaspé]]''' }} {{IsPartOf|Land's End (Gaspé Peninsula)}} {{guidepark}} {{geo|48.90436|-64.35799}} rkx70qrkqvruyq90cejo9mo85svyxeg 3 147820 5091391 5075214 2025-07-11T11:42:18Z 37.250.76.55 /* Blekinge */ new section 5091391 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2016-2017]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2018]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2019]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2020]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2021]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2022]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2023]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2024]] == An award for you! == {| style="background-color: var(--background-color-success-subtle, #fdffe7); border: 1px solid var(--border-color-success, #fceb92); color: var(--color-base, #202122);" |rowspan="2" style="vertical-align: middle; padding: 5px;" | [[File:Barncompass.png|100px]] |style="font-size: x-large; padding: 3px 3px 0 3px; height: 1.5em;" | '''The Wikivoyage Barncompass''' |- |style="vertical-align: middle; padding: 3px;" | You've been helping a lot on Wikivoyage, so thanks. [[User:RockTransport|RockTransport]] ([[User talk:RockTransport|talk]]) 19:50, 13 January 2025 (UTC) |} == Listings == hey, you commented out a restaurant listing and wrote that is does not provide any useful information at all. It shows the traveller e.g. where to get a good price for eating out. for example in a bar also serving food or in a cafeteria. Pizzerias serve pizza. Is a stated address that important in a small village? Just put the name of the restaurant in Google Maps and you see where it is. Restaurant hours get outdated. I already got disappointed when trusting restaurant hours on Wikivoyage. [[Special:Contributions/80.187.74.109|80.187.74.109]] 19:55, 1 February 2025 (UTC) :Wikivoyage doesn't just list names. What good does that do? Do you expect the reader will choose one name and start wandering around aimlessly looking for the restaurant with that name? Writing, as you now have, what kind if food a restaurant serves helps the reader to choose. Writing that Restaurants A, B and C exist does not. :Wikivoyage includes restaurant hours, which can change. Restaurant names can change. Restaurants can close. This used a problem that every travel guide faces. Wikivoyage's advantage is that it can be updated, unlike printed travel guides. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:17, 1 February 2025 (UTC) ::"Wikivoyage doesn't just list names. What good does that do?" ::Readers interested in a cafeteria may go to the cafeteria. Readers interested in pizza may go to a pizzeria. It's not correct, that a list showing only names does not provide ''any'' useful information. It's better than having no information at all about restaurants in a town. ::"Do you expect the reader will choose one name and start wandering around aimlessly looking for the restaurant with that name?" ::Aimlessly? The name put into Google Maps shows where the restaurant is including directions from where is reader currently. No address needed at all for that. In a village there are almost never two restaurants with the same name. ::"Wikivoyage includes restaurant hours, which can change." ::Restaurant hours should be better checked in Google Maps. Way more likely to be up-to-date. Otherwise likely to stand in front of a closed door. Restaurant hours can also change seasonally, which Wikivoyage doesn't cover. [[Special:Contributions/80.187.74.109|80.187.74.109]] 22:23, 1 February 2025 (UTC) :::Welcome to Wikivoyage, and thank you for your contibutions. Wikivoyage and its predecessor site have been around for 20 years. During that time, our community has developed policies that reflect the collective view of contributors about how an online collaborative travel guide will be most useful to readers. :::You should not expect that as a new contributor you can come in and unilaterally start changing how we do things here. We ask that you respect Wikivoyage policies. If you ignore our policies, you can expect that your edits will be removed, as they would be in any collaborative project. ::: I encourage you instead to work with us, and starting learning about Wikivoyage policies that have developed collaboratively over more than two decades. The best way to get started is to sign up for an account so that other editors can communicate with you directly on your talk page, and so that you can have a list of articles that you can watch for changes. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:36, 1 February 2025 (UTC) :::You are aware that it is the entire reason we have lastedit fields, right? Otherwise I do echo what GZ said. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:57, 1 February 2025 (UTC) ::::I don't see the point in not telling the coordinates. They are easier to look up in Google Maps by the person who knows the restaurant. The traveller reading the guide doesn't know whether the place showing up in their own search is an unrelated namesake. ::::If the reader wants to go to a cafeteria, its name tells that it is a cafeteria and they are to use Google Maps to find that cafeteria, why wouldn't they just search for cafeterias in Google Maps? Same with pizzerias and whatever. They should not need to use external tools. ::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:33, 2 February 2025 (UTC) == Dashes, brackets or hyphens? == It is a post soviet culture to write phone numbers like I wrote them because you never know whether it is landline or cellular. So code in brackets. Locals white numbers like that and read it like that better. [[User:Coopypasted|Coopypasted]] ([[User talk:Coopypasted|talk]]) 18:21, 10 February 2025 (UTC) : That is helpful information, but as you can see from [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Shymkent&oldid=5019047 this version] of the article, if you use dashes (or parentheses) in phine numbers, it produces a yellow tag that says "FORMAT", indicating a formatting error. Also, the phone number field allows the reader to dial a number directly from the article. This function will not work with dashes. Thank you for expanding the article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:18, 10 February 2025 (UTC) ::{{ping|Coopypasted}} Hyphens are allowed, and it seems [[:w:Dash#Figure dash|figure dashes]] are allowed too – but not m- or n-dashes. Parentheses are used for comments (with some special characters, such as commas, disallowed) and thus don't work for numbers – and even if one realises that the parenthesised digits are the area code, it isn't clear whether they need to be modified before dialling, such as by leaving out a prefix. (The numbers in the article were formatted like "+7 (7252) 77‒55‒79".) ::The info on how phone numbers are written locally should be in the country article's Connect section, accompanied by advice on how to actually dial them. Numbers with the FORMAT warning can probably not be dialled by clicking them on a smart phone, but need to be typed in by hand in the right format – better use that directly diallable format in the listings. ::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 21:42, 10 February 2025 (UTC) :::Somehow soviet format with brackets are completely okay for android based smartphones with international firmware. I just copypaste number and dialer skips (), - or anything else except numbers and +.[[User:Coopypasted|Coopypasted]] ([[User talk:Coopypasted|talk]]) 07:55, 11 February 2025 (UTC) ::::Diallers can be more or less smart, and interpret the standard more or less rigorously. How does your dialler treat "+358 (0) 9 123 456" (which is a common way to write numbers in Finland) or "+358 9 1243-456 (10:00–15:00)" (which I could write in Wikivoyage)? ::::Anyway, we cannot assume that our readers have smart diallers, so we should write the phone numbers in a way that any compliant dialler understands (read: that our template – and any human reader – can transform into a standard-compliant diallable number). ::::Formats that the template mark as format errors (visibly if you have enabled that in your preferences), are those that the template knows it cannot write in a standard-compliant diallable form. We should avoid at least those. ::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 10:03, 11 February 2025 (UTC) == Content created by [[User:Jihaiyun]] == Hi Ground Zero, I come from Mangshi, China, and am semi-active in Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons, not familiar with the WikiVoyage community. I noticed [[User:Jihaiyun]] created some voyage articles related to my hometown west Yunnan. I'm really happy to see the content improve on my hometown. However, I felt a little weird. There are many errors I can see... Include wrong image[https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Western_Yunnan#By_boat][https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Ruili#History], incorrect Chinese, completely non-exist information[https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Ruili#By_plane], fake website url[https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Mangshi#Buy]... Do we need to do something about this? My suggestion is to rewrite everything, but I am quite busy and don't have time to write an article of this length. What do you think? [[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 23:51, 13 February 2025 (UTC) :Just curious, I saw your discussion about AI and professor [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Talk:Ruili#Evaluation_of_the_Article]. What is the story? These articles indeed looks like AI work. [[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 00:06, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :{{ping|Piotrus}} was this one of your students by any chance? //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:20, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :I am afraid that was one of mine. Unfortunately, as Wikivoyage does not require references, I am not always able to spot AI hallucinations that student sometimes insert. I try to check the URLs but seems like I missed these. Can you delete anything that seems suspicious? If that student ever takes another course of mine I'll saddle her with extra work and triple check her output, but I am afraid we can't count on her coming back otherwise. [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 00:55, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :In that case, we probably have to delete the article, or would you like to start a new draft and come back to it when you are less busy? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:13, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::I can try, but no promise.--[[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 11:36, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::Why would you delete it, instead of just reverting to the pre-student version? [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 13:50, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :::Oh, I didn't realize the article had existed before the fraudulent information was added to it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 14:52, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::::We are talking about multiple articles here. The student created [[Mangshi]], but not [[Ruili]] or [[Western Yunnan]]. [[User:STW932|STW932]] ([[User talk:STW932|talk]]) 17:28, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :::::I can try on Mangshi, Ruili, and Western Yunnan. The student seems also have contribution on [[Jinhua]] which I'm not familiar with, sorry can't fix it. [[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 21:34, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::*facepalm* I apologize. I will be much more careful next semester, requiring more proof the listings added are not AI hallucinations. For [[Jinhua]] I did spotchecks and all URLs at least seem broken/fake. I recommend that article, which the student created, is nominated for deletion. I am not sure if anything there is salvageable. [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 02:32, 15 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::*:PS. I did a bit more check. Some stuff may be salvageable. The slightly good news is that a bunch of stuff, name-wise, is translated from zh wikivoyage. For example, see listings 1-14 are copied from zh wiki (GPS spotcheck in them is ok, but I am unsure about content, as zh wiki does not have it for some entries). Listings 20-28 also seem ok (also copied from zh wikivoyage). I could not verify the rest. But even the entries that are roughly correct may be padded with errors; for example I also spot checked Wikidata/pedia linkages here and they are fake. For example, Jinhua Shuanglong Cave is a real local attraction, it has the correct accompanying picture from Commons, but the Wikidata link is fake (it should go to : [[:w:Shuanglong Cave]] ). [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 02:52, 15 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::I checked her creation [[Tongchuan]] . It has no URLs for any listings, I cannot verify if anything is true or fake in detail. At least the main attraction (Yuhua Palace) is mentioned in zh Wikivoyage and is is linked to Wikidata. Yaowang Mountain, Chenlu Ancient Town and possibly Yaoyao Kiln Museum (called Site on zh wikivoyage) at least have correct names But most other listings have no Wikidata links :( [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 02:39, 15 February 2025 (UTC) == Edit conflicts == Hey, thanks for cleaning up the entry on [[Kiel]]. Two suggestions, if I may: * It's probably best not to interrupt others' editing. The "edit listing" tool is not too smart about the page source changing underneath it... no need to break things. * In edit summaries (I know, I'm guilty of not using them at all...), it's better to describe what you're doing ("move library listings to Connect", "remove history of COVID-19 restrictions") than to state facts ("Libraries go in Connect", "The history of covid restrictions doesn't belong") since that sounds standoffish and may put well-meaning editors such as myself (new to Wikivoyage, though familiar with Wikipedia) off. I'm sure that's not what you intended - but that's just why I'm making this suggestion. :) Thanks again for improving the entry and all the best, [[Special:Contributions/2003:D5:AF32:ED00:A482:1983:47BE:45FB|2003:D5:AF32:ED00:A482:1983:47BE:45FB]] 20:37, 22 February 2025 (UTC) Hello [[User:2003:D5:AF32:ED00:A482:1983:47BE:45FB]] # Sorry about the cross-editting. I didn't see that you were still editing the article. Once I realized that, I stopped. # I think it is better to state what the policy is, rather than to state the action, which could appear to be a personal preference, rather than a community decision. # Fair comment about my cranky response on the Covid rules. We do get a lot of people just passing through, and it is easy to forget to try to cultivate new contributors. If you're coming from Wikipedia, you may find this page useful: [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, Wikipedians]]. Thank you for your contributions to the Kiel article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 08:31, 23 February 2025 (UTC) == Photos in Nenmara Article == Thank you for removing the photos in Nenmara article and kept the important one. I have a question about the photos should we add photos of bus stations, railway stations and other transport facilities in the relevant section? Or use the usual thumb code? It is possible to use the multiple image template and the advantage is that the photos stay at the relevant sections insted of going down. Is there any policy related to this? [[User:Ranjithsiji|Ranjithsiji]] ([[User talk:Ranjithsiji|talk]]) 04:42, 25 March 2025 (UTC) :Of course Ground Zero can answer on his own behalf, but just to save you time: Yes. Please read [[Wikivoyage:Image policy]]. After you have had a chance to look through that, any long-time user will be more than happy to answer any questions you have about it. :Best, :[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:52, 25 March 2025 (UTC) == Removed café listings — feedback from a local == Hi everyone, just wanted to share a quick note about the recent removal of some cafés and restaurants from the Eat section (like Not Just Coffee, etc.). I actually live in Puerto Galera and work with tourists on a daily basis. These are exactly the kinds of questions I get all the time — “Where can I get good coffee?”, “Is there anything other than fried rice and beer?”, “Any place with decent pastries or vegetarian options?” The listings I added aren’t random — they reflect real, on-the-ground demand from visitors. These places are well-established and offer much-needed variety in food, especially for travelers who stay longer than a weekend. If any of the entries didn’t meet formatting or listing guidelines, I’m more than happy to clean them up — I just think they add real value for people planning their trip. Thanks for keeping the page organized — happy to collaborate on making it even more helpful! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 11:16, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :{{ping|SoulCatcherS}} The listings were mixed up between [[Puerto Galera]], Sabang and White Beach. Each card or restaurant should be listing only in one article: the article for the place covered by that article. For example, I found cafés in White Beach included in the Puerto Galera article, and vice versa. (I understand that administratively White Beach and Sabang are part of PG, but to make navigation easier for readers, they have been split out into separate .) [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:26, 7 April 2025 (UTC) ::Hi @Ground Zero, thank you for the clarification! ::That makes sense in terms of editorial structure — and yes, I'm happy to help redistribute the listings accordingly between Puerto Galera, White Beach, and Sabang. ::That said, just a quick note from someone who lives here and interacts with visitors every day: most travelers really don't distinguish between PG, White Beach, and Sabang in a practical sense. For them, it’s all part of the same experience — they just want to know where to eat, dive, or stay without jumping between multiple pages. ::Still, totally get the intention behind keeping things well-organized. I'll start adjusting the listings based on actual location. Let me know if there's a preferred way to handle businesses that may technically sit in between areas or serve multiple zones. ::Appreciate your work on the cleanup — happy to help however I can! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 11:30, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :::{{ping|SoulCatcherS}} I am glad to hear it. It can be difficult to draw lines to separate areas between articles where visitors don't necessarily see those lines. The maps should help. The alternative would be to combine all three articles into one, but that would probably make it more difficult for readers to find the information they are looking for. Where a listing is in between two settlements, we just have to use our best judgement about which article to put it in. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:34, 7 April 2025 (UTC) ::::Totally agree — merging the articles would probably make things messier, not simpler. Even though the lines between Sabang, White Beach, and Puerto Galera Town aren’t always clear to travelers, their character is quite different, and visitors tend to treat them as distinct zones. ::::For example, many people staying in White Beach are happy to explore Sabang or Aninuan for food or diving — but there are also plenty of visitors who stay put in one area their whole trip. Also, Sabang has more of a nightlife scene (often not very family-oriented), while White Beach is generally more relaxed and family-friendly. And for someone staying in White Beach, heading to Aninuan can already feel like “outside” the main zone. ::::So I’ll keep sorting listings accordingly and use location + vibe as a guide when deciding what goes where. If in doubt, I’ll ping here. ::::Thanks again for explaining! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 11:47, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :::::{{ping|SoulCatcherS}} Does the current split between the three articles make sense? Should Aninuan have its own article? If you think so, you can propose a split on the White Beach article's talk page. The local breakdown isn't fixed: if it makes sense to change it, we should do that. I can assist. I don't know the area. It is great to have your local knowledge to guide us in improving Wikivoyage's coverage of the area, [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:04, 7 April 2025 (UTC) ::::::Thanks for the offer, Ground Zero — appreciate the openness! ::::::From my perspective on the ground: Aninuan doesn’t really justify a separate article. It’s more like an extension or quiet suburb of White Beach. There aren’t enough distinct attractions or services there to make it stand alone. Most visitors staying in Aninuan go to White Beach for food, shops, or tours anyway. ::::::I think the current breakdown — Sabang, White Beach, and Puerto Galera Town — works well. These three zones cover the area’s different vibes and types of travelers pretty effectively. Anything beyond that would probably overcomplicate things for readers, at least for the next few years. ::::::If anything changes significantly down the line, happy to revisit! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 12:11, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :::::::Great! Thanks for the input. It's good to have you here. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:13, 7 April 2025 (UTC) == “voloisers” == Hi there, last February you edited the [[Malta]] article and made [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Malta&diff=next&oldid=4814959 this diff], changing (among other things) “All of them, as well as intensive trading across the region, left both material and cultural heritage on the islands” to “The voloisers and intensive trading across the region left material and cultural heritage on the islands”. What is “The voloisers” supposed to mean? A google search for the word brings up only four hits – all of them clearly from this one sentence here on Wikivoyage. Could you please re-word it to use a more common and understandable word if you still know what you had in mind when you wrote that sentence? Thank you! -- [[User:Pne|Pne]] ([[User talk:Pne|talk]]) 13:29, 13 April 2025 (UTC) :That looks like a typo. I've corrected it now. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:32, 13 April 2025 (UTC) == Broken routebox == I have come across a broken routebox. Can you recommend anyone who might be familiar with both the roads of Ohio and editing routebox code? Details can be found [[Talk:Sandusky#Broken routebox code|here]]. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:89.241.66.102|89.241.66.102]] ([[User_talk:89.241.66.102|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/89.241.66.102|contribs]]) 08:19, April 18, 2025 (UTC)</small> : I edited the routebox and commented on the linked talk page. Looked like a trivial error, but there may of course be more to it. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:01, 18 April 2025 (UTC) ::I'm not familiar with Ohio or formatting route boxes. Thanks to [[User:LPfi]] for answering this. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:14, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Recent edits on the Serbia article == Hey there, Thanks for the recent edits you've made on the Wikivoyage Serbia article! That was my very first major edit, and I'd love some more feedback in the future on how to improve them in the future. Many thanks in advance! [[User:Minozen|Minozen]] ([[User talk:Minozen|talk]]) 20:14, 2 May 2025 (UTC) == Dont remove content == Do not delete useful information for a foreign traveler regarding the state of police violence in Greece, especially in Athens. Many tourists visit the city and should be informed. You can see and this https://www.ethnos.gr/greece/article/366346/orgiobiaskaikatastolhsstaexarxeiaoiastynomikoiespasantomisomagazileeiidiokththstoympar. Next time to be more carefull. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:RedBaronGR|RedBaronGR]] ([[User_talk:RedBaronGR|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/RedBaronGR|contribs]]) 08:37, May 19, 2025</small> :Did you even read the edit summary in question? And please sign your messages in the future before taking such a condescending tone. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:07, 19 May 2025 (UTC) == Duplicate date == I have [[Special:Diff/5072057|removed]] the duplicate date added in [[Special:Diff/5071990|revision 5071990]]. --[[Special:Contributions/92.23.56.65|92.23.56.65]] 06:54, 4 June 2025 (UTC) I have removed the duplicate lastedit date added in [[Special:Diff/5074443|revision 5074443]]. -- [[Special:Contributions/80.47.46.250|80.47.46.250]] 08:30, 10 June 2025 (UTC) == Blekinge == Thank you for nothing. Fortunately I have other and perhaps even better things to do. [[Special:Contributions/37.250.76.55|37.250.76.55]] 11:42, 11 July 2025 (UTC) 469h43ay4805l1nj3rw2w8167uy2jcy 5091392 5091391 2025-07-11T11:45:07Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Blekinge */ 5091392 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2016-2017]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2018]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2019]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2020]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2021]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2022]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2023]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2024]] == An award for you! == {| style="background-color: var(--background-color-success-subtle, #fdffe7); border: 1px solid var(--border-color-success, #fceb92); color: var(--color-base, #202122);" |rowspan="2" style="vertical-align: middle; padding: 5px;" | [[File:Barncompass.png|100px]] |style="font-size: x-large; padding: 3px 3px 0 3px; height: 1.5em;" | '''The Wikivoyage Barncompass''' |- |style="vertical-align: middle; padding: 3px;" | You've been helping a lot on Wikivoyage, so thanks. [[User:RockTransport|RockTransport]] ([[User talk:RockTransport|talk]]) 19:50, 13 January 2025 (UTC) |} == Listings == hey, you commented out a restaurant listing and wrote that is does not provide any useful information at all. It shows the traveller e.g. where to get a good price for eating out. for example in a bar also serving food or in a cafeteria. Pizzerias serve pizza. Is a stated address that important in a small village? Just put the name of the restaurant in Google Maps and you see where it is. Restaurant hours get outdated. I already got disappointed when trusting restaurant hours on Wikivoyage. [[Special:Contributions/80.187.74.109|80.187.74.109]] 19:55, 1 February 2025 (UTC) :Wikivoyage doesn't just list names. What good does that do? Do you expect the reader will choose one name and start wandering around aimlessly looking for the restaurant with that name? Writing, as you now have, what kind if food a restaurant serves helps the reader to choose. Writing that Restaurants A, B and C exist does not. :Wikivoyage includes restaurant hours, which can change. Restaurant names can change. Restaurants can close. This used a problem that every travel guide faces. Wikivoyage's advantage is that it can be updated, unlike printed travel guides. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:17, 1 February 2025 (UTC) ::"Wikivoyage doesn't just list names. What good does that do?" ::Readers interested in a cafeteria may go to the cafeteria. Readers interested in pizza may go to a pizzeria. It's not correct, that a list showing only names does not provide ''any'' useful information. It's better than having no information at all about restaurants in a town. ::"Do you expect the reader will choose one name and start wandering around aimlessly looking for the restaurant with that name?" ::Aimlessly? The name put into Google Maps shows where the restaurant is including directions from where is reader currently. No address needed at all for that. In a village there are almost never two restaurants with the same name. ::"Wikivoyage includes restaurant hours, which can change." ::Restaurant hours should be better checked in Google Maps. Way more likely to be up-to-date. Otherwise likely to stand in front of a closed door. Restaurant hours can also change seasonally, which Wikivoyage doesn't cover. [[Special:Contributions/80.187.74.109|80.187.74.109]] 22:23, 1 February 2025 (UTC) :::Welcome to Wikivoyage, and thank you for your contibutions. Wikivoyage and its predecessor site have been around for 20 years. During that time, our community has developed policies that reflect the collective view of contributors about how an online collaborative travel guide will be most useful to readers. :::You should not expect that as a new contributor you can come in and unilaterally start changing how we do things here. We ask that you respect Wikivoyage policies. If you ignore our policies, you can expect that your edits will be removed, as they would be in any collaborative project. ::: I encourage you instead to work with us, and starting learning about Wikivoyage policies that have developed collaboratively over more than two decades. The best way to get started is to sign up for an account so that other editors can communicate with you directly on your talk page, and so that you can have a list of articles that you can watch for changes. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:36, 1 February 2025 (UTC) :::You are aware that it is the entire reason we have lastedit fields, right? Otherwise I do echo what GZ said. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:57, 1 February 2025 (UTC) ::::I don't see the point in not telling the coordinates. They are easier to look up in Google Maps by the person who knows the restaurant. The traveller reading the guide doesn't know whether the place showing up in their own search is an unrelated namesake. ::::If the reader wants to go to a cafeteria, its name tells that it is a cafeteria and they are to use Google Maps to find that cafeteria, why wouldn't they just search for cafeterias in Google Maps? Same with pizzerias and whatever. They should not need to use external tools. ::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:33, 2 February 2025 (UTC) == Dashes, brackets or hyphens? == It is a post soviet culture to write phone numbers like I wrote them because you never know whether it is landline or cellular. So code in brackets. Locals white numbers like that and read it like that better. [[User:Coopypasted|Coopypasted]] ([[User talk:Coopypasted|talk]]) 18:21, 10 February 2025 (UTC) : That is helpful information, but as you can see from [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Shymkent&oldid=5019047 this version] of the article, if you use dashes (or parentheses) in phine numbers, it produces a yellow tag that says "FORMAT", indicating a formatting error. Also, the phone number field allows the reader to dial a number directly from the article. This function will not work with dashes. Thank you for expanding the article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:18, 10 February 2025 (UTC) ::{{ping|Coopypasted}} Hyphens are allowed, and it seems [[:w:Dash#Figure dash|figure dashes]] are allowed too – but not m- or n-dashes. Parentheses are used for comments (with some special characters, such as commas, disallowed) and thus don't work for numbers – and even if one realises that the parenthesised digits are the area code, it isn't clear whether they need to be modified before dialling, such as by leaving out a prefix. (The numbers in the article were formatted like "+7 (7252) 77‒55‒79".) ::The info on how phone numbers are written locally should be in the country article's Connect section, accompanied by advice on how to actually dial them. Numbers with the FORMAT warning can probably not be dialled by clicking them on a smart phone, but need to be typed in by hand in the right format – better use that directly diallable format in the listings. ::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 21:42, 10 February 2025 (UTC) :::Somehow soviet format with brackets are completely okay for android based smartphones with international firmware. I just copypaste number and dialer skips (), - or anything else except numbers and +.[[User:Coopypasted|Coopypasted]] ([[User talk:Coopypasted|talk]]) 07:55, 11 February 2025 (UTC) ::::Diallers can be more or less smart, and interpret the standard more or less rigorously. How does your dialler treat "+358 (0) 9 123 456" (which is a common way to write numbers in Finland) or "+358 9 1243-456 (10:00–15:00)" (which I could write in Wikivoyage)? ::::Anyway, we cannot assume that our readers have smart diallers, so we should write the phone numbers in a way that any compliant dialler understands (read: that our template – and any human reader – can transform into a standard-compliant diallable number). ::::Formats that the template mark as format errors (visibly if you have enabled that in your preferences), are those that the template knows it cannot write in a standard-compliant diallable form. We should avoid at least those. ::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 10:03, 11 February 2025 (UTC) == Content created by [[User:Jihaiyun]] == Hi Ground Zero, I come from Mangshi, China, and am semi-active in Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons, not familiar with the WikiVoyage community. I noticed [[User:Jihaiyun]] created some voyage articles related to my hometown west Yunnan. I'm really happy to see the content improve on my hometown. However, I felt a little weird. There are many errors I can see... Include wrong image[https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Western_Yunnan#By_boat][https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Ruili#History], incorrect Chinese, completely non-exist information[https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Ruili#By_plane], fake website url[https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Mangshi#Buy]... Do we need to do something about this? My suggestion is to rewrite everything, but I am quite busy and don't have time to write an article of this length. What do you think? [[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 23:51, 13 February 2025 (UTC) :Just curious, I saw your discussion about AI and professor [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Talk:Ruili#Evaluation_of_the_Article]. What is the story? These articles indeed looks like AI work. [[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 00:06, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :{{ping|Piotrus}} was this one of your students by any chance? //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:20, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :I am afraid that was one of mine. Unfortunately, as Wikivoyage does not require references, I am not always able to spot AI hallucinations that student sometimes insert. I try to check the URLs but seems like I missed these. Can you delete anything that seems suspicious? If that student ever takes another course of mine I'll saddle her with extra work and triple check her output, but I am afraid we can't count on her coming back otherwise. [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 00:55, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :In that case, we probably have to delete the article, or would you like to start a new draft and come back to it when you are less busy? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:13, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::I can try, but no promise.--[[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 11:36, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::Why would you delete it, instead of just reverting to the pre-student version? [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 13:50, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :::Oh, I didn't realize the article had existed before the fraudulent information was added to it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 14:52, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::::We are talking about multiple articles here. The student created [[Mangshi]], but not [[Ruili]] or [[Western Yunnan]]. [[User:STW932|STW932]] ([[User talk:STW932|talk]]) 17:28, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :::::I can try on Mangshi, Ruili, and Western Yunnan. The student seems also have contribution on [[Jinhua]] which I'm not familiar with, sorry can't fix it. [[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 21:34, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::*facepalm* I apologize. I will be much more careful next semester, requiring more proof the listings added are not AI hallucinations. For [[Jinhua]] I did spotchecks and all URLs at least seem broken/fake. I recommend that article, which the student created, is nominated for deletion. I am not sure if anything there is salvageable. [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 02:32, 15 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::*:PS. I did a bit more check. Some stuff may be salvageable. The slightly good news is that a bunch of stuff, name-wise, is translated from zh wikivoyage. For example, see listings 1-14 are copied from zh wiki (GPS spotcheck in them is ok, but I am unsure about content, as zh wiki does not have it for some entries). Listings 20-28 also seem ok (also copied from zh wikivoyage). I could not verify the rest. But even the entries that are roughly correct may be padded with errors; for example I also spot checked Wikidata/pedia linkages here and they are fake. For example, Jinhua Shuanglong Cave is a real local attraction, it has the correct accompanying picture from Commons, but the Wikidata link is fake (it should go to : [[:w:Shuanglong Cave]] ). [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 02:52, 15 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::I checked her creation [[Tongchuan]] . It has no URLs for any listings, I cannot verify if anything is true or fake in detail. At least the main attraction (Yuhua Palace) is mentioned in zh Wikivoyage and is is linked to Wikidata. Yaowang Mountain, Chenlu Ancient Town and possibly Yaoyao Kiln Museum (called Site on zh wikivoyage) at least have correct names But most other listings have no Wikidata links :( [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 02:39, 15 February 2025 (UTC) == Edit conflicts == Hey, thanks for cleaning up the entry on [[Kiel]]. Two suggestions, if I may: * It's probably best not to interrupt others' editing. The "edit listing" tool is not too smart about the page source changing underneath it... no need to break things. * In edit summaries (I know, I'm guilty of not using them at all...), it's better to describe what you're doing ("move library listings to Connect", "remove history of COVID-19 restrictions") than to state facts ("Libraries go in Connect", "The history of covid restrictions doesn't belong") since that sounds standoffish and may put well-meaning editors such as myself (new to Wikivoyage, though familiar with Wikipedia) off. I'm sure that's not what you intended - but that's just why I'm making this suggestion. :) Thanks again for improving the entry and all the best, [[Special:Contributions/2003:D5:AF32:ED00:A482:1983:47BE:45FB|2003:D5:AF32:ED00:A482:1983:47BE:45FB]] 20:37, 22 February 2025 (UTC) Hello [[User:2003:D5:AF32:ED00:A482:1983:47BE:45FB]] # Sorry about the cross-editting. I didn't see that you were still editing the article. Once I realized that, I stopped. # I think it is better to state what the policy is, rather than to state the action, which could appear to be a personal preference, rather than a community decision. # Fair comment about my cranky response on the Covid rules. We do get a lot of people just passing through, and it is easy to forget to try to cultivate new contributors. If you're coming from Wikipedia, you may find this page useful: [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, Wikipedians]]. Thank you for your contributions to the Kiel article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 08:31, 23 February 2025 (UTC) == Photos in Nenmara Article == Thank you for removing the photos in Nenmara article and kept the important one. I have a question about the photos should we add photos of bus stations, railway stations and other transport facilities in the relevant section? Or use the usual thumb code? It is possible to use the multiple image template and the advantage is that the photos stay at the relevant sections insted of going down. Is there any policy related to this? [[User:Ranjithsiji|Ranjithsiji]] ([[User talk:Ranjithsiji|talk]]) 04:42, 25 March 2025 (UTC) :Of course Ground Zero can answer on his own behalf, but just to save you time: Yes. Please read [[Wikivoyage:Image policy]]. After you have had a chance to look through that, any long-time user will be more than happy to answer any questions you have about it. :Best, :[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:52, 25 March 2025 (UTC) == Removed café listings — feedback from a local == Hi everyone, just wanted to share a quick note about the recent removal of some cafés and restaurants from the Eat section (like Not Just Coffee, etc.). I actually live in Puerto Galera and work with tourists on a daily basis. These are exactly the kinds of questions I get all the time — “Where can I get good coffee?”, “Is there anything other than fried rice and beer?”, “Any place with decent pastries or vegetarian options?” The listings I added aren’t random — they reflect real, on-the-ground demand from visitors. These places are well-established and offer much-needed variety in food, especially for travelers who stay longer than a weekend. If any of the entries didn’t meet formatting or listing guidelines, I’m more than happy to clean them up — I just think they add real value for people planning their trip. Thanks for keeping the page organized — happy to collaborate on making it even more helpful! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 11:16, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :{{ping|SoulCatcherS}} The listings were mixed up between [[Puerto Galera]], Sabang and White Beach. Each card or restaurant should be listing only in one article: the article for the place covered by that article. For example, I found cafés in White Beach included in the Puerto Galera article, and vice versa. (I understand that administratively White Beach and Sabang are part of PG, but to make navigation easier for readers, they have been split out into separate .) [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:26, 7 April 2025 (UTC) ::Hi @Ground Zero, thank you for the clarification! ::That makes sense in terms of editorial structure — and yes, I'm happy to help redistribute the listings accordingly between Puerto Galera, White Beach, and Sabang. ::That said, just a quick note from someone who lives here and interacts with visitors every day: most travelers really don't distinguish between PG, White Beach, and Sabang in a practical sense. For them, it’s all part of the same experience — they just want to know where to eat, dive, or stay without jumping between multiple pages. ::Still, totally get the intention behind keeping things well-organized. I'll start adjusting the listings based on actual location. Let me know if there's a preferred way to handle businesses that may technically sit in between areas or serve multiple zones. ::Appreciate your work on the cleanup — happy to help however I can! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 11:30, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :::{{ping|SoulCatcherS}} I am glad to hear it. It can be difficult to draw lines to separate areas between articles where visitors don't necessarily see those lines. The maps should help. The alternative would be to combine all three articles into one, but that would probably make it more difficult for readers to find the information they are looking for. Where a listing is in between two settlements, we just have to use our best judgement about which article to put it in. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:34, 7 April 2025 (UTC) ::::Totally agree — merging the articles would probably make things messier, not simpler. Even though the lines between Sabang, White Beach, and Puerto Galera Town aren’t always clear to travelers, their character is quite different, and visitors tend to treat them as distinct zones. ::::For example, many people staying in White Beach are happy to explore Sabang or Aninuan for food or diving — but there are also plenty of visitors who stay put in one area their whole trip. Also, Sabang has more of a nightlife scene (often not very family-oriented), while White Beach is generally more relaxed and family-friendly. And for someone staying in White Beach, heading to Aninuan can already feel like “outside” the main zone. ::::So I’ll keep sorting listings accordingly and use location + vibe as a guide when deciding what goes where. If in doubt, I’ll ping here. ::::Thanks again for explaining! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 11:47, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :::::{{ping|SoulCatcherS}} Does the current split between the three articles make sense? Should Aninuan have its own article? If you think so, you can propose a split on the White Beach article's talk page. The local breakdown isn't fixed: if it makes sense to change it, we should do that. I can assist. I don't know the area. It is great to have your local knowledge to guide us in improving Wikivoyage's coverage of the area, [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:04, 7 April 2025 (UTC) ::::::Thanks for the offer, Ground Zero — appreciate the openness! ::::::From my perspective on the ground: Aninuan doesn’t really justify a separate article. It’s more like an extension or quiet suburb of White Beach. There aren’t enough distinct attractions or services there to make it stand alone. Most visitors staying in Aninuan go to White Beach for food, shops, or tours anyway. ::::::I think the current breakdown — Sabang, White Beach, and Puerto Galera Town — works well. These three zones cover the area’s different vibes and types of travelers pretty effectively. Anything beyond that would probably overcomplicate things for readers, at least for the next few years. ::::::If anything changes significantly down the line, happy to revisit! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 12:11, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :::::::Great! Thanks for the input. It's good to have you here. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:13, 7 April 2025 (UTC) == “voloisers” == Hi there, last February you edited the [[Malta]] article and made [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Malta&diff=next&oldid=4814959 this diff], changing (among other things) “All of them, as well as intensive trading across the region, left both material and cultural heritage on the islands” to “The voloisers and intensive trading across the region left material and cultural heritage on the islands”. What is “The voloisers” supposed to mean? A google search for the word brings up only four hits – all of them clearly from this one sentence here on Wikivoyage. Could you please re-word it to use a more common and understandable word if you still know what you had in mind when you wrote that sentence? Thank you! -- [[User:Pne|Pne]] ([[User talk:Pne|talk]]) 13:29, 13 April 2025 (UTC) :That looks like a typo. I've corrected it now. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:32, 13 April 2025 (UTC) == Broken routebox == I have come across a broken routebox. Can you recommend anyone who might be familiar with both the roads of Ohio and editing routebox code? Details can be found [[Talk:Sandusky#Broken routebox code|here]]. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:89.241.66.102|89.241.66.102]] ([[User_talk:89.241.66.102|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/89.241.66.102|contribs]]) 08:19, April 18, 2025 (UTC)</small> : I edited the routebox and commented on the linked talk page. Looked like a trivial error, but there may of course be more to it. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:01, 18 April 2025 (UTC) ::I'm not familiar with Ohio or formatting route boxes. Thanks to [[User:LPfi]] for answering this. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:14, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Recent edits on the Serbia article == Hey there, Thanks for the recent edits you've made on the Wikivoyage Serbia article! That was my very first major edit, and I'd love some more feedback in the future on how to improve them in the future. Many thanks in advance! [[User:Minozen|Minozen]] ([[User talk:Minozen|talk]]) 20:14, 2 May 2025 (UTC) == Dont remove content == Do not delete useful information for a foreign traveler regarding the state of police violence in Greece, especially in Athens. Many tourists visit the city and should be informed. You can see and this https://www.ethnos.gr/greece/article/366346/orgiobiaskaikatastolhsstaexarxeiaoiastynomikoiespasantomisomagazileeiidiokththstoympar. Next time to be more carefull. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:RedBaronGR|RedBaronGR]] ([[User_talk:RedBaronGR|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/RedBaronGR|contribs]]) 08:37, May 19, 2025</small> :Did you even read the edit summary in question? And please sign your messages in the future before taking such a condescending tone. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:07, 19 May 2025 (UTC) == Duplicate date == I have [[Special:Diff/5072057|removed]] the duplicate date added in [[Special:Diff/5071990|revision 5071990]]. --[[Special:Contributions/92.23.56.65|92.23.56.65]] 06:54, 4 June 2025 (UTC) I have removed the duplicate lastedit date added in [[Special:Diff/5074443|revision 5074443]]. -- [[Special:Contributions/80.47.46.250|80.47.46.250]] 08:30, 10 June 2025 (UTC) == Blekinge == Thank you for nothing. Fortunately I have other and perhaps even better things to do. [[Special:Contributions/37.250.76.55|37.250.76.55]] 11:42, 11 July 2025 (UTC) :Thanks you for your contributions to Wikivoyage. I am helping by putting the information you have added in the correct places. It is easy to make mistakes when starting something new. That is why experienced users help out the new contributors. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:45, 11 July 2025 (UTC) q4adlstxnjuv3tndnogimsr79cxchzc 5091393 5091392 2025-07-11T11:47:27Z 37.250.76.55 /* Blekinge */ 5091393 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2016-2017]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2018]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2019]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2020]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2021]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2022]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2023]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2024]] == An award for you! == {| style="background-color: var(--background-color-success-subtle, #fdffe7); border: 1px solid var(--border-color-success, #fceb92); color: var(--color-base, #202122);" |rowspan="2" style="vertical-align: middle; padding: 5px;" | [[File:Barncompass.png|100px]] |style="font-size: x-large; padding: 3px 3px 0 3px; height: 1.5em;" | '''The Wikivoyage Barncompass''' |- |style="vertical-align: middle; padding: 3px;" | You've been helping a lot on Wikivoyage, so thanks. [[User:RockTransport|RockTransport]] ([[User talk:RockTransport|talk]]) 19:50, 13 January 2025 (UTC) |} == Listings == hey, you commented out a restaurant listing and wrote that is does not provide any useful information at all. It shows the traveller e.g. where to get a good price for eating out. for example in a bar also serving food or in a cafeteria. Pizzerias serve pizza. Is a stated address that important in a small village? Just put the name of the restaurant in Google Maps and you see where it is. Restaurant hours get outdated. I already got disappointed when trusting restaurant hours on Wikivoyage. [[Special:Contributions/80.187.74.109|80.187.74.109]] 19:55, 1 February 2025 (UTC) :Wikivoyage doesn't just list names. What good does that do? Do you expect the reader will choose one name and start wandering around aimlessly looking for the restaurant with that name? Writing, as you now have, what kind if food a restaurant serves helps the reader to choose. Writing that Restaurants A, B and C exist does not. :Wikivoyage includes restaurant hours, which can change. Restaurant names can change. Restaurants can close. This used a problem that every travel guide faces. Wikivoyage's advantage is that it can be updated, unlike printed travel guides. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:17, 1 February 2025 (UTC) ::"Wikivoyage doesn't just list names. What good does that do?" ::Readers interested in a cafeteria may go to the cafeteria. Readers interested in pizza may go to a pizzeria. It's not correct, that a list showing only names does not provide ''any'' useful information. It's better than having no information at all about restaurants in a town. ::"Do you expect the reader will choose one name and start wandering around aimlessly looking for the restaurant with that name?" ::Aimlessly? The name put into Google Maps shows where the restaurant is including directions from where is reader currently. No address needed at all for that. In a village there are almost never two restaurants with the same name. ::"Wikivoyage includes restaurant hours, which can change." ::Restaurant hours should be better checked in Google Maps. Way more likely to be up-to-date. Otherwise likely to stand in front of a closed door. Restaurant hours can also change seasonally, which Wikivoyage doesn't cover. [[Special:Contributions/80.187.74.109|80.187.74.109]] 22:23, 1 February 2025 (UTC) :::Welcome to Wikivoyage, and thank you for your contibutions. Wikivoyage and its predecessor site have been around for 20 years. During that time, our community has developed policies that reflect the collective view of contributors about how an online collaborative travel guide will be most useful to readers. :::You should not expect that as a new contributor you can come in and unilaterally start changing how we do things here. We ask that you respect Wikivoyage policies. If you ignore our policies, you can expect that your edits will be removed, as they would be in any collaborative project. ::: I encourage you instead to work with us, and starting learning about Wikivoyage policies that have developed collaboratively over more than two decades. The best way to get started is to sign up for an account so that other editors can communicate with you directly on your talk page, and so that you can have a list of articles that you can watch for changes. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:36, 1 February 2025 (UTC) :::You are aware that it is the entire reason we have lastedit fields, right? Otherwise I do echo what GZ said. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:57, 1 February 2025 (UTC) ::::I don't see the point in not telling the coordinates. They are easier to look up in Google Maps by the person who knows the restaurant. The traveller reading the guide doesn't know whether the place showing up in their own search is an unrelated namesake. ::::If the reader wants to go to a cafeteria, its name tells that it is a cafeteria and they are to use Google Maps to find that cafeteria, why wouldn't they just search for cafeterias in Google Maps? Same with pizzerias and whatever. They should not need to use external tools. ::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:33, 2 February 2025 (UTC) == Dashes, brackets or hyphens? == It is a post soviet culture to write phone numbers like I wrote them because you never know whether it is landline or cellular. So code in brackets. Locals white numbers like that and read it like that better. [[User:Coopypasted|Coopypasted]] ([[User talk:Coopypasted|talk]]) 18:21, 10 February 2025 (UTC) : That is helpful information, but as you can see from [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Shymkent&oldid=5019047 this version] of the article, if you use dashes (or parentheses) in phine numbers, it produces a yellow tag that says "FORMAT", indicating a formatting error. Also, the phone number field allows the reader to dial a number directly from the article. This function will not work with dashes. Thank you for expanding the article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:18, 10 February 2025 (UTC) ::{{ping|Coopypasted}} Hyphens are allowed, and it seems [[:w:Dash#Figure dash|figure dashes]] are allowed too – but not m- or n-dashes. Parentheses are used for comments (with some special characters, such as commas, disallowed) and thus don't work for numbers – and even if one realises that the parenthesised digits are the area code, it isn't clear whether they need to be modified before dialling, such as by leaving out a prefix. (The numbers in the article were formatted like "+7 (7252) 77‒55‒79".) ::The info on how phone numbers are written locally should be in the country article's Connect section, accompanied by advice on how to actually dial them. Numbers with the FORMAT warning can probably not be dialled by clicking them on a smart phone, but need to be typed in by hand in the right format – better use that directly diallable format in the listings. ::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 21:42, 10 February 2025 (UTC) :::Somehow soviet format with brackets are completely okay for android based smartphones with international firmware. I just copypaste number and dialer skips (), - or anything else except numbers and +.[[User:Coopypasted|Coopypasted]] ([[User talk:Coopypasted|talk]]) 07:55, 11 February 2025 (UTC) ::::Diallers can be more or less smart, and interpret the standard more or less rigorously. How does your dialler treat "+358 (0) 9 123 456" (which is a common way to write numbers in Finland) or "+358 9 1243-456 (10:00–15:00)" (which I could write in Wikivoyage)? ::::Anyway, we cannot assume that our readers have smart diallers, so we should write the phone numbers in a way that any compliant dialler understands (read: that our template – and any human reader – can transform into a standard-compliant diallable number). ::::Formats that the template mark as format errors (visibly if you have enabled that in your preferences), are those that the template knows it cannot write in a standard-compliant diallable form. We should avoid at least those. ::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 10:03, 11 February 2025 (UTC) == Content created by [[User:Jihaiyun]] == Hi Ground Zero, I come from Mangshi, China, and am semi-active in Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons, not familiar with the WikiVoyage community. I noticed [[User:Jihaiyun]] created some voyage articles related to my hometown west Yunnan. I'm really happy to see the content improve on my hometown. However, I felt a little weird. There are many errors I can see... Include wrong image[https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Western_Yunnan#By_boat][https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Ruili#History], incorrect Chinese, completely non-exist information[https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Ruili#By_plane], fake website url[https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Mangshi#Buy]... Do we need to do something about this? My suggestion is to rewrite everything, but I am quite busy and don't have time to write an article of this length. What do you think? [[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 23:51, 13 February 2025 (UTC) :Just curious, I saw your discussion about AI and professor [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Talk:Ruili#Evaluation_of_the_Article]. What is the story? These articles indeed looks like AI work. [[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 00:06, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :{{ping|Piotrus}} was this one of your students by any chance? //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:20, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :I am afraid that was one of mine. Unfortunately, as Wikivoyage does not require references, I am not always able to spot AI hallucinations that student sometimes insert. I try to check the URLs but seems like I missed these. Can you delete anything that seems suspicious? If that student ever takes another course of mine I'll saddle her with extra work and triple check her output, but I am afraid we can't count on her coming back otherwise. [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 00:55, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :In that case, we probably have to delete the article, or would you like to start a new draft and come back to it when you are less busy? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:13, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::I can try, but no promise.--[[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 11:36, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::Why would you delete it, instead of just reverting to the pre-student version? [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 13:50, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :::Oh, I didn't realize the article had existed before the fraudulent information was added to it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 14:52, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::::We are talking about multiple articles here. The student created [[Mangshi]], but not [[Ruili]] or [[Western Yunnan]]. [[User:STW932|STW932]] ([[User talk:STW932|talk]]) 17:28, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :::::I can try on Mangshi, Ruili, and Western Yunnan. The student seems also have contribution on [[Jinhua]] which I'm not familiar with, sorry can't fix it. [[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 21:34, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::*facepalm* I apologize. I will be much more careful next semester, requiring more proof the listings added are not AI hallucinations. For [[Jinhua]] I did spotchecks and all URLs at least seem broken/fake. I recommend that article, which the student created, is nominated for deletion. I am not sure if anything there is salvageable. [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 02:32, 15 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::*:PS. I did a bit more check. Some stuff may be salvageable. The slightly good news is that a bunch of stuff, name-wise, is translated from zh wikivoyage. For example, see listings 1-14 are copied from zh wiki (GPS spotcheck in them is ok, but I am unsure about content, as zh wiki does not have it for some entries). Listings 20-28 also seem ok (also copied from zh wikivoyage). I could not verify the rest. But even the entries that are roughly correct may be padded with errors; for example I also spot checked Wikidata/pedia linkages here and they are fake. For example, Jinhua Shuanglong Cave is a real local attraction, it has the correct accompanying picture from Commons, but the Wikidata link is fake (it should go to : [[:w:Shuanglong Cave]] ). [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 02:52, 15 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::I checked her creation [[Tongchuan]] . It has no URLs for any listings, I cannot verify if anything is true or fake in detail. At least the main attraction (Yuhua Palace) is mentioned in zh Wikivoyage and is is linked to Wikidata. Yaowang Mountain, Chenlu Ancient Town and possibly Yaoyao Kiln Museum (called Site on zh wikivoyage) at least have correct names But most other listings have no Wikidata links :( [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 02:39, 15 February 2025 (UTC) == Edit conflicts == Hey, thanks for cleaning up the entry on [[Kiel]]. Two suggestions, if I may: * It's probably best not to interrupt others' editing. The "edit listing" tool is not too smart about the page source changing underneath it... no need to break things. * In edit summaries (I know, I'm guilty of not using them at all...), it's better to describe what you're doing ("move library listings to Connect", "remove history of COVID-19 restrictions") than to state facts ("Libraries go in Connect", "The history of covid restrictions doesn't belong") since that sounds standoffish and may put well-meaning editors such as myself (new to Wikivoyage, though familiar with Wikipedia) off. I'm sure that's not what you intended - but that's just why I'm making this suggestion. :) Thanks again for improving the entry and all the best, [[Special:Contributions/2003:D5:AF32:ED00:A482:1983:47BE:45FB|2003:D5:AF32:ED00:A482:1983:47BE:45FB]] 20:37, 22 February 2025 (UTC) Hello [[User:2003:D5:AF32:ED00:A482:1983:47BE:45FB]] # Sorry about the cross-editting. I didn't see that you were still editing the article. Once I realized that, I stopped. # I think it is better to state what the policy is, rather than to state the action, which could appear to be a personal preference, rather than a community decision. # Fair comment about my cranky response on the Covid rules. We do get a lot of people just passing through, and it is easy to forget to try to cultivate new contributors. If you're coming from Wikipedia, you may find this page useful: [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, Wikipedians]]. Thank you for your contributions to the Kiel article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 08:31, 23 February 2025 (UTC) == Photos in Nenmara Article == Thank you for removing the photos in Nenmara article and kept the important one. I have a question about the photos should we add photos of bus stations, railway stations and other transport facilities in the relevant section? Or use the usual thumb code? It is possible to use the multiple image template and the advantage is that the photos stay at the relevant sections insted of going down. Is there any policy related to this? [[User:Ranjithsiji|Ranjithsiji]] ([[User talk:Ranjithsiji|talk]]) 04:42, 25 March 2025 (UTC) :Of course Ground Zero can answer on his own behalf, but just to save you time: Yes. Please read [[Wikivoyage:Image policy]]. After you have had a chance to look through that, any long-time user will be more than happy to answer any questions you have about it. :Best, :[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:52, 25 March 2025 (UTC) == Removed café listings — feedback from a local == Hi everyone, just wanted to share a quick note about the recent removal of some cafés and restaurants from the Eat section (like Not Just Coffee, etc.). I actually live in Puerto Galera and work with tourists on a daily basis. These are exactly the kinds of questions I get all the time — “Where can I get good coffee?”, “Is there anything other than fried rice and beer?”, “Any place with decent pastries or vegetarian options?” The listings I added aren’t random — they reflect real, on-the-ground demand from visitors. These places are well-established and offer much-needed variety in food, especially for travelers who stay longer than a weekend. If any of the entries didn’t meet formatting or listing guidelines, I’m more than happy to clean them up — I just think they add real value for people planning their trip. Thanks for keeping the page organized — happy to collaborate on making it even more helpful! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 11:16, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :{{ping|SoulCatcherS}} The listings were mixed up between [[Puerto Galera]], Sabang and White Beach. Each card or restaurant should be listing only in one article: the article for the place covered by that article. For example, I found cafés in White Beach included in the Puerto Galera article, and vice versa. (I understand that administratively White Beach and Sabang are part of PG, but to make navigation easier for readers, they have been split out into separate .) [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:26, 7 April 2025 (UTC) ::Hi @Ground Zero, thank you for the clarification! ::That makes sense in terms of editorial structure — and yes, I'm happy to help redistribute the listings accordingly between Puerto Galera, White Beach, and Sabang. ::That said, just a quick note from someone who lives here and interacts with visitors every day: most travelers really don't distinguish between PG, White Beach, and Sabang in a practical sense. For them, it’s all part of the same experience — they just want to know where to eat, dive, or stay without jumping between multiple pages. ::Still, totally get the intention behind keeping things well-organized. I'll start adjusting the listings based on actual location. Let me know if there's a preferred way to handle businesses that may technically sit in between areas or serve multiple zones. ::Appreciate your work on the cleanup — happy to help however I can! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 11:30, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :::{{ping|SoulCatcherS}} I am glad to hear it. It can be difficult to draw lines to separate areas between articles where visitors don't necessarily see those lines. The maps should help. The alternative would be to combine all three articles into one, but that would probably make it more difficult for readers to find the information they are looking for. Where a listing is in between two settlements, we just have to use our best judgement about which article to put it in. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:34, 7 April 2025 (UTC) ::::Totally agree — merging the articles would probably make things messier, not simpler. Even though the lines between Sabang, White Beach, and Puerto Galera Town aren’t always clear to travelers, their character is quite different, and visitors tend to treat them as distinct zones. ::::For example, many people staying in White Beach are happy to explore Sabang or Aninuan for food or diving — but there are also plenty of visitors who stay put in one area their whole trip. Also, Sabang has more of a nightlife scene (often not very family-oriented), while White Beach is generally more relaxed and family-friendly. And for someone staying in White Beach, heading to Aninuan can already feel like “outside” the main zone. ::::So I’ll keep sorting listings accordingly and use location + vibe as a guide when deciding what goes where. If in doubt, I’ll ping here. ::::Thanks again for explaining! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 11:47, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :::::{{ping|SoulCatcherS}} Does the current split between the three articles make sense? Should Aninuan have its own article? If you think so, you can propose a split on the White Beach article's talk page. The local breakdown isn't fixed: if it makes sense to change it, we should do that. I can assist. I don't know the area. It is great to have your local knowledge to guide us in improving Wikivoyage's coverage of the area, [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:04, 7 April 2025 (UTC) ::::::Thanks for the offer, Ground Zero — appreciate the openness! ::::::From my perspective on the ground: Aninuan doesn’t really justify a separate article. It’s more like an extension or quiet suburb of White Beach. There aren’t enough distinct attractions or services there to make it stand alone. Most visitors staying in Aninuan go to White Beach for food, shops, or tours anyway. ::::::I think the current breakdown — Sabang, White Beach, and Puerto Galera Town — works well. These three zones cover the area’s different vibes and types of travelers pretty effectively. Anything beyond that would probably overcomplicate things for readers, at least for the next few years. ::::::If anything changes significantly down the line, happy to revisit! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 12:11, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :::::::Great! Thanks for the input. It's good to have you here. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:13, 7 April 2025 (UTC) == “voloisers” == Hi there, last February you edited the [[Malta]] article and made [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Malta&diff=next&oldid=4814959 this diff], changing (among other things) “All of them, as well as intensive trading across the region, left both material and cultural heritage on the islands” to “The voloisers and intensive trading across the region left material and cultural heritage on the islands”. What is “The voloisers” supposed to mean? A google search for the word brings up only four hits – all of them clearly from this one sentence here on Wikivoyage. Could you please re-word it to use a more common and understandable word if you still know what you had in mind when you wrote that sentence? Thank you! -- [[User:Pne|Pne]] ([[User talk:Pne|talk]]) 13:29, 13 April 2025 (UTC) :That looks like a typo. I've corrected it now. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:32, 13 April 2025 (UTC) == Broken routebox == I have come across a broken routebox. Can you recommend anyone who might be familiar with both the roads of Ohio and editing routebox code? Details can be found [[Talk:Sandusky#Broken routebox code|here]]. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:89.241.66.102|89.241.66.102]] ([[User_talk:89.241.66.102|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/89.241.66.102|contribs]]) 08:19, April 18, 2025 (UTC)</small> : I edited the routebox and commented on the linked talk page. Looked like a trivial error, but there may of course be more to it. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:01, 18 April 2025 (UTC) ::I'm not familiar with Ohio or formatting route boxes. Thanks to [[User:LPfi]] for answering this. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:14, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Recent edits on the Serbia article == Hey there, Thanks for the recent edits you've made on the Wikivoyage Serbia article! That was my very first major edit, and I'd love some more feedback in the future on how to improve them in the future. Many thanks in advance! [[User:Minozen|Minozen]] ([[User talk:Minozen|talk]]) 20:14, 2 May 2025 (UTC) == Dont remove content == Do not delete useful information for a foreign traveler regarding the state of police violence in Greece, especially in Athens. Many tourists visit the city and should be informed. You can see and this https://www.ethnos.gr/greece/article/366346/orgiobiaskaikatastolhsstaexarxeiaoiastynomikoiespasantomisomagazileeiidiokththstoympar. Next time to be more carefull. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:RedBaronGR|RedBaronGR]] ([[User_talk:RedBaronGR|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/RedBaronGR|contribs]]) 08:37, May 19, 2025</small> :Did you even read the edit summary in question? And please sign your messages in the future before taking such a condescending tone. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:07, 19 May 2025 (UTC) == Duplicate date == I have [[Special:Diff/5072057|removed]] the duplicate date added in [[Special:Diff/5071990|revision 5071990]]. --[[Special:Contributions/92.23.56.65|92.23.56.65]] 06:54, 4 June 2025 (UTC) I have removed the duplicate lastedit date added in [[Special:Diff/5074443|revision 5074443]]. -- [[Special:Contributions/80.47.46.250|80.47.46.250]] 08:30, 10 June 2025 (UTC) == Blekinge == Thank you for nothing. Fortunately I have other and perhaps even better things to do. [[Special:Contributions/37.250.76.55|37.250.76.55]] 11:42, 11 July 2025 (UTC) :Thanks you for your contributions to Wikivoyage. I am helping by putting the information you have added in the correct places. It is easy to make mistakes when starting something new. That is why experienced users help out the new contributors. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:45, 11 July 2025 (UTC) ::Okay, so now you help yourself then. Goodbye! [[Special:Contributions/37.250.76.55|37.250.76.55]] 11:47, 11 July 2025 (UTC) bi9pu5b43ru3ifyhxwxl7t5jsway0zn 5091399 5091393 2025-07-11T11:53:34Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Blekinge */ 5091399 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2016-2017]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2018]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2019]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2020]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2021]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2022]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2023]] * [[User talk:Ground Zero/Archive 2024]] == An award for you! == {| style="background-color: var(--background-color-success-subtle, #fdffe7); border: 1px solid var(--border-color-success, #fceb92); color: var(--color-base, #202122);" |rowspan="2" style="vertical-align: middle; padding: 5px;" | [[File:Barncompass.png|100px]] |style="font-size: x-large; padding: 3px 3px 0 3px; height: 1.5em;" | '''The Wikivoyage Barncompass''' |- |style="vertical-align: middle; padding: 3px;" | You've been helping a lot on Wikivoyage, so thanks. [[User:RockTransport|RockTransport]] ([[User talk:RockTransport|talk]]) 19:50, 13 January 2025 (UTC) |} == Listings == hey, you commented out a restaurant listing and wrote that is does not provide any useful information at all. It shows the traveller e.g. where to get a good price for eating out. for example in a bar also serving food or in a cafeteria. Pizzerias serve pizza. Is a stated address that important in a small village? Just put the name of the restaurant in Google Maps and you see where it is. Restaurant hours get outdated. I already got disappointed when trusting restaurant hours on Wikivoyage. [[Special:Contributions/80.187.74.109|80.187.74.109]] 19:55, 1 February 2025 (UTC) :Wikivoyage doesn't just list names. What good does that do? Do you expect the reader will choose one name and start wandering around aimlessly looking for the restaurant with that name? Writing, as you now have, what kind if food a restaurant serves helps the reader to choose. Writing that Restaurants A, B and C exist does not. :Wikivoyage includes restaurant hours, which can change. Restaurant names can change. Restaurants can close. This used a problem that every travel guide faces. Wikivoyage's advantage is that it can be updated, unlike printed travel guides. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:17, 1 February 2025 (UTC) ::"Wikivoyage doesn't just list names. What good does that do?" ::Readers interested in a cafeteria may go to the cafeteria. Readers interested in pizza may go to a pizzeria. It's not correct, that a list showing only names does not provide ''any'' useful information. It's better than having no information at all about restaurants in a town. ::"Do you expect the reader will choose one name and start wandering around aimlessly looking for the restaurant with that name?" ::Aimlessly? The name put into Google Maps shows where the restaurant is including directions from where is reader currently. No address needed at all for that. In a village there are almost never two restaurants with the same name. ::"Wikivoyage includes restaurant hours, which can change." ::Restaurant hours should be better checked in Google Maps. Way more likely to be up-to-date. Otherwise likely to stand in front of a closed door. Restaurant hours can also change seasonally, which Wikivoyage doesn't cover. [[Special:Contributions/80.187.74.109|80.187.74.109]] 22:23, 1 February 2025 (UTC) :::Welcome to Wikivoyage, and thank you for your contibutions. Wikivoyage and its predecessor site have been around for 20 years. During that time, our community has developed policies that reflect the collective view of contributors about how an online collaborative travel guide will be most useful to readers. :::You should not expect that as a new contributor you can come in and unilaterally start changing how we do things here. We ask that you respect Wikivoyage policies. If you ignore our policies, you can expect that your edits will be removed, as they would be in any collaborative project. ::: I encourage you instead to work with us, and starting learning about Wikivoyage policies that have developed collaboratively over more than two decades. The best way to get started is to sign up for an account so that other editors can communicate with you directly on your talk page, and so that you can have a list of articles that you can watch for changes. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 22:36, 1 February 2025 (UTC) :::You are aware that it is the entire reason we have lastedit fields, right? Otherwise I do echo what GZ said. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:57, 1 February 2025 (UTC) ::::I don't see the point in not telling the coordinates. They are easier to look up in Google Maps by the person who knows the restaurant. The traveller reading the guide doesn't know whether the place showing up in their own search is an unrelated namesake. ::::If the reader wants to go to a cafeteria, its name tells that it is a cafeteria and they are to use Google Maps to find that cafeteria, why wouldn't they just search for cafeterias in Google Maps? Same with pizzerias and whatever. They should not need to use external tools. ::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:33, 2 February 2025 (UTC) == Dashes, brackets or hyphens? == It is a post soviet culture to write phone numbers like I wrote them because you never know whether it is landline or cellular. So code in brackets. Locals white numbers like that and read it like that better. [[User:Coopypasted|Coopypasted]] ([[User talk:Coopypasted|talk]]) 18:21, 10 February 2025 (UTC) : That is helpful information, but as you can see from [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Shymkent&oldid=5019047 this version] of the article, if you use dashes (or parentheses) in phine numbers, it produces a yellow tag that says "FORMAT", indicating a formatting error. Also, the phone number field allows the reader to dial a number directly from the article. This function will not work with dashes. Thank you for expanding the article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:18, 10 February 2025 (UTC) ::{{ping|Coopypasted}} Hyphens are allowed, and it seems [[:w:Dash#Figure dash|figure dashes]] are allowed too – but not m- or n-dashes. Parentheses are used for comments (with some special characters, such as commas, disallowed) and thus don't work for numbers – and even if one realises that the parenthesised digits are the area code, it isn't clear whether they need to be modified before dialling, such as by leaving out a prefix. (The numbers in the article were formatted like "+7 (7252) 77‒55‒79".) ::The info on how phone numbers are written locally should be in the country article's Connect section, accompanied by advice on how to actually dial them. Numbers with the FORMAT warning can probably not be dialled by clicking them on a smart phone, but need to be typed in by hand in the right format – better use that directly diallable format in the listings. ::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 21:42, 10 February 2025 (UTC) :::Somehow soviet format with brackets are completely okay for android based smartphones with international firmware. I just copypaste number and dialer skips (), - or anything else except numbers and +.[[User:Coopypasted|Coopypasted]] ([[User talk:Coopypasted|talk]]) 07:55, 11 February 2025 (UTC) ::::Diallers can be more or less smart, and interpret the standard more or less rigorously. How does your dialler treat "+358 (0) 9 123 456" (which is a common way to write numbers in Finland) or "+358 9 1243-456 (10:00–15:00)" (which I could write in Wikivoyage)? ::::Anyway, we cannot assume that our readers have smart diallers, so we should write the phone numbers in a way that any compliant dialler understands (read: that our template – and any human reader – can transform into a standard-compliant diallable number). ::::Formats that the template mark as format errors (visibly if you have enabled that in your preferences), are those that the template knows it cannot write in a standard-compliant diallable form. We should avoid at least those. ::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 10:03, 11 February 2025 (UTC) == Content created by [[User:Jihaiyun]] == Hi Ground Zero, I come from Mangshi, China, and am semi-active in Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons, not familiar with the WikiVoyage community. I noticed [[User:Jihaiyun]] created some voyage articles related to my hometown west Yunnan. I'm really happy to see the content improve on my hometown. However, I felt a little weird. There are many errors I can see... Include wrong image[https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Western_Yunnan#By_boat][https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Ruili#History], incorrect Chinese, completely non-exist information[https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Ruili#By_plane], fake website url[https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Mangshi#Buy]... Do we need to do something about this? My suggestion is to rewrite everything, but I am quite busy and don't have time to write an article of this length. What do you think? [[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 23:51, 13 February 2025 (UTC) :Just curious, I saw your discussion about AI and professor [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Talk:Ruili#Evaluation_of_the_Article]. What is the story? These articles indeed looks like AI work. [[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 00:06, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :{{ping|Piotrus}} was this one of your students by any chance? //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:20, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :I am afraid that was one of mine. Unfortunately, as Wikivoyage does not require references, I am not always able to spot AI hallucinations that student sometimes insert. I try to check the URLs but seems like I missed these. Can you delete anything that seems suspicious? If that student ever takes another course of mine I'll saddle her with extra work and triple check her output, but I am afraid we can't count on her coming back otherwise. [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 00:55, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :In that case, we probably have to delete the article, or would you like to start a new draft and come back to it when you are less busy? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:13, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::I can try, but no promise.--[[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 11:36, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::Why would you delete it, instead of just reverting to the pre-student version? [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 13:50, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :::Oh, I didn't realize the article had existed before the fraudulent information was added to it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 14:52, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::::We are talking about multiple articles here. The student created [[Mangshi]], but not [[Ruili]] or [[Western Yunnan]]. [[User:STW932|STW932]] ([[User talk:STW932|talk]]) 17:28, 14 February 2025 (UTC) :::::I can try on Mangshi, Ruili, and Western Yunnan. The student seems also have contribution on [[Jinhua]] which I'm not familiar with, sorry can't fix it. [[User:瑞丽江的河水|瑞丽江的河水]] ([[User talk:瑞丽江的河水|talk]]) 21:34, 14 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::*facepalm* I apologize. I will be much more careful next semester, requiring more proof the listings added are not AI hallucinations. For [[Jinhua]] I did spotchecks and all URLs at least seem broken/fake. I recommend that article, which the student created, is nominated for deletion. I am not sure if anything there is salvageable. [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 02:32, 15 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::*:PS. I did a bit more check. Some stuff may be salvageable. The slightly good news is that a bunch of stuff, name-wise, is translated from zh wikivoyage. For example, see listings 1-14 are copied from zh wiki (GPS spotcheck in them is ok, but I am unsure about content, as zh wiki does not have it for some entries). Listings 20-28 also seem ok (also copied from zh wikivoyage). I could not verify the rest. But even the entries that are roughly correct may be padded with errors; for example I also spot checked Wikidata/pedia linkages here and they are fake. For example, Jinhua Shuanglong Cave is a real local attraction, it has the correct accompanying picture from Commons, but the Wikidata link is fake (it should go to : [[:w:Shuanglong Cave]] ). [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 02:52, 15 February 2025 (UTC) ::::::I checked her creation [[Tongchuan]] . It has no URLs for any listings, I cannot verify if anything is true or fake in detail. At least the main attraction (Yuhua Palace) is mentioned in zh Wikivoyage and is is linked to Wikidata. Yaowang Mountain, Chenlu Ancient Town and possibly Yaoyao Kiln Museum (called Site on zh wikivoyage) at least have correct names But most other listings have no Wikidata links :( [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 02:39, 15 February 2025 (UTC) == Edit conflicts == Hey, thanks for cleaning up the entry on [[Kiel]]. Two suggestions, if I may: * It's probably best not to interrupt others' editing. The "edit listing" tool is not too smart about the page source changing underneath it... no need to break things. * In edit summaries (I know, I'm guilty of not using them at all...), it's better to describe what you're doing ("move library listings to Connect", "remove history of COVID-19 restrictions") than to state facts ("Libraries go in Connect", "The history of covid restrictions doesn't belong") since that sounds standoffish and may put well-meaning editors such as myself (new to Wikivoyage, though familiar with Wikipedia) off. I'm sure that's not what you intended - but that's just why I'm making this suggestion. :) Thanks again for improving the entry and all the best, [[Special:Contributions/2003:D5:AF32:ED00:A482:1983:47BE:45FB|2003:D5:AF32:ED00:A482:1983:47BE:45FB]] 20:37, 22 February 2025 (UTC) Hello [[User:2003:D5:AF32:ED00:A482:1983:47BE:45FB]] # Sorry about the cross-editting. I didn't see that you were still editing the article. Once I realized that, I stopped. # I think it is better to state what the policy is, rather than to state the action, which could appear to be a personal preference, rather than a community decision. # Fair comment about my cranky response on the Covid rules. We do get a lot of people just passing through, and it is easy to forget to try to cultivate new contributors. If you're coming from Wikipedia, you may find this page useful: [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, Wikipedians]]. Thank you for your contributions to the Kiel article. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 08:31, 23 February 2025 (UTC) == Photos in Nenmara Article == Thank you for removing the photos in Nenmara article and kept the important one. I have a question about the photos should we add photos of bus stations, railway stations and other transport facilities in the relevant section? Or use the usual thumb code? It is possible to use the multiple image template and the advantage is that the photos stay at the relevant sections insted of going down. Is there any policy related to this? [[User:Ranjithsiji|Ranjithsiji]] ([[User talk:Ranjithsiji|talk]]) 04:42, 25 March 2025 (UTC) :Of course Ground Zero can answer on his own behalf, but just to save you time: Yes. Please read [[Wikivoyage:Image policy]]. After you have had a chance to look through that, any long-time user will be more than happy to answer any questions you have about it. :Best, :[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 05:52, 25 March 2025 (UTC) == Removed café listings — feedback from a local == Hi everyone, just wanted to share a quick note about the recent removal of some cafés and restaurants from the Eat section (like Not Just Coffee, etc.). I actually live in Puerto Galera and work with tourists on a daily basis. These are exactly the kinds of questions I get all the time — “Where can I get good coffee?”, “Is there anything other than fried rice and beer?”, “Any place with decent pastries or vegetarian options?” The listings I added aren’t random — they reflect real, on-the-ground demand from visitors. These places are well-established and offer much-needed variety in food, especially for travelers who stay longer than a weekend. If any of the entries didn’t meet formatting or listing guidelines, I’m more than happy to clean them up — I just think they add real value for people planning their trip. Thanks for keeping the page organized — happy to collaborate on making it even more helpful! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 11:16, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :{{ping|SoulCatcherS}} The listings were mixed up between [[Puerto Galera]], Sabang and White Beach. Each card or restaurant should be listing only in one article: the article for the place covered by that article. For example, I found cafés in White Beach included in the Puerto Galera article, and vice versa. (I understand that administratively White Beach and Sabang are part of PG, but to make navigation easier for readers, they have been split out into separate .) [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:26, 7 April 2025 (UTC) ::Hi @Ground Zero, thank you for the clarification! ::That makes sense in terms of editorial structure — and yes, I'm happy to help redistribute the listings accordingly between Puerto Galera, White Beach, and Sabang. ::That said, just a quick note from someone who lives here and interacts with visitors every day: most travelers really don't distinguish between PG, White Beach, and Sabang in a practical sense. For them, it’s all part of the same experience — they just want to know where to eat, dive, or stay without jumping between multiple pages. ::Still, totally get the intention behind keeping things well-organized. I'll start adjusting the listings based on actual location. Let me know if there's a preferred way to handle businesses that may technically sit in between areas or serve multiple zones. ::Appreciate your work on the cleanup — happy to help however I can! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 11:30, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :::{{ping|SoulCatcherS}} I am glad to hear it. It can be difficult to draw lines to separate areas between articles where visitors don't necessarily see those lines. The maps should help. The alternative would be to combine all three articles into one, but that would probably make it more difficult for readers to find the information they are looking for. Where a listing is in between two settlements, we just have to use our best judgement about which article to put it in. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:34, 7 April 2025 (UTC) ::::Totally agree — merging the articles would probably make things messier, not simpler. Even though the lines between Sabang, White Beach, and Puerto Galera Town aren’t always clear to travelers, their character is quite different, and visitors tend to treat them as distinct zones. ::::For example, many people staying in White Beach are happy to explore Sabang or Aninuan for food or diving — but there are also plenty of visitors who stay put in one area their whole trip. Also, Sabang has more of a nightlife scene (often not very family-oriented), while White Beach is generally more relaxed and family-friendly. And for someone staying in White Beach, heading to Aninuan can already feel like “outside” the main zone. ::::So I’ll keep sorting listings accordingly and use location + vibe as a guide when deciding what goes where. If in doubt, I’ll ping here. ::::Thanks again for explaining! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 11:47, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :::::{{ping|SoulCatcherS}} Does the current split between the three articles make sense? Should Aninuan have its own article? If you think so, you can propose a split on the White Beach article's talk page. The local breakdown isn't fixed: if it makes sense to change it, we should do that. I can assist. I don't know the area. It is great to have your local knowledge to guide us in improving Wikivoyage's coverage of the area, [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:04, 7 April 2025 (UTC) ::::::Thanks for the offer, Ground Zero — appreciate the openness! ::::::From my perspective on the ground: Aninuan doesn’t really justify a separate article. It’s more like an extension or quiet suburb of White Beach. There aren’t enough distinct attractions or services there to make it stand alone. Most visitors staying in Aninuan go to White Beach for food, shops, or tours anyway. ::::::I think the current breakdown — Sabang, White Beach, and Puerto Galera Town — works well. These three zones cover the area’s different vibes and types of travelers pretty effectively. Anything beyond that would probably overcomplicate things for readers, at least for the next few years. ::::::If anything changes significantly down the line, happy to revisit! [[User:SoulCatcherS|SoulCatcherS]] ([[User talk:SoulCatcherS|talk]]) 12:11, 7 April 2025 (UTC) :::::::Great! Thanks for the input. It's good to have you here. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:13, 7 April 2025 (UTC) == “voloisers” == Hi there, last February you edited the [[Malta]] article and made [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Malta&diff=next&oldid=4814959 this diff], changing (among other things) “All of them, as well as intensive trading across the region, left both material and cultural heritage on the islands” to “The voloisers and intensive trading across the region left material and cultural heritage on the islands”. What is “The voloisers” supposed to mean? A google search for the word brings up only four hits – all of them clearly from this one sentence here on Wikivoyage. Could you please re-word it to use a more common and understandable word if you still know what you had in mind when you wrote that sentence? Thank you! -- [[User:Pne|Pne]] ([[User talk:Pne|talk]]) 13:29, 13 April 2025 (UTC) :That looks like a typo. I've corrected it now. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:32, 13 April 2025 (UTC) == Broken routebox == I have come across a broken routebox. Can you recommend anyone who might be familiar with both the roads of Ohio and editing routebox code? Details can be found [[Talk:Sandusky#Broken routebox code|here]]. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:89.241.66.102|89.241.66.102]] ([[User_talk:89.241.66.102|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/89.241.66.102|contribs]]) 08:19, April 18, 2025 (UTC)</small> : I edited the routebox and commented on the linked talk page. Looked like a trivial error, but there may of course be more to it. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:01, 18 April 2025 (UTC) ::I'm not familiar with Ohio or formatting route boxes. Thanks to [[User:LPfi]] for answering this. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:14, 18 April 2025 (UTC) == Recent edits on the Serbia article == Hey there, Thanks for the recent edits you've made on the Wikivoyage Serbia article! That was my very first major edit, and I'd love some more feedback in the future on how to improve them in the future. Many thanks in advance! [[User:Minozen|Minozen]] ([[User talk:Minozen|talk]]) 20:14, 2 May 2025 (UTC) == Dont remove content == Do not delete useful information for a foreign traveler regarding the state of police violence in Greece, especially in Athens. Many tourists visit the city and should be informed. You can see and this https://www.ethnos.gr/greece/article/366346/orgiobiaskaikatastolhsstaexarxeiaoiastynomikoiespasantomisomagazileeiidiokththstoympar. Next time to be more carefull. <small>—The [[Project:Using_talk_pages#Talk_page_formatting|preceding]] comment was added by [[User:RedBaronGR|RedBaronGR]] ([[User_talk:RedBaronGR|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/RedBaronGR|contribs]]) 08:37, May 19, 2025</small> :Did you even read the edit summary in question? And please sign your messages in the future before taking such a condescending tone. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:07, 19 May 2025 (UTC) == Duplicate date == I have [[Special:Diff/5072057|removed]] the duplicate date added in [[Special:Diff/5071990|revision 5071990]]. --[[Special:Contributions/92.23.56.65|92.23.56.65]] 06:54, 4 June 2025 (UTC) I have removed the duplicate lastedit date added in [[Special:Diff/5074443|revision 5074443]]. -- [[Special:Contributions/80.47.46.250|80.47.46.250]] 08:30, 10 June 2025 (UTC) == Blekinge == Thank you for nothing. Fortunately I have other and perhaps even better things to do. [[Special:Contributions/37.250.76.55|37.250.76.55]] 11:42, 11 July 2025 (UTC) :Thanks you for your contributions to Wikivoyage. I am helping by putting the information you have added in the correct places. It is easy to make mistakes when starting something new. That is why experienced users help out the new contributors. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:45, 11 July 2025 (UTC) ::Okay, so now you help yourself then. Goodbye! [[Special:Contributions/37.250.76.55|37.250.76.55]] 11:47, 11 July 2025 (UTC) :::I don't understand what the issue is. In a collaborative project, people work together to produce something better. If you only want everything your way, then a blog might be better for you, but few people will read it. You can reach a wider audience by working with the Wikivoyage community. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:53, 11 July 2025 (UTC) tummmcx8x27srocztq5503vkohnt7xb 0 147851 5091151 4717418 2025-07-11T02:12:32Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Self-guided Walking tours */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091151 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner_Glen_Williams_Ontario.jpg|pgname=Glen Williams}} "Beautiful spot! A perfect oasis in the leafy desert...." Such were the first impressions of a traveller who arrived in '''the Glen''' in 1847. '''Glen Williams''' is a tiny village, a hamlet, in the Credit River valley just north of Georgetown, a 45 minute drive west of Toronto. The Glen is part of [[Halton Hills]] in the [[Halton (Ontario)|Halton Regional Municipality]]. Today the "perfect oasis" takes considerable pride in its legacy of well-constructed buildings, its long manufacturing history and its sense of community (an irreplaceable commodity these days). If you like art, crafts, antiques, and well-preserved heritage buildings, then you’re going to love this place. In the Glen you can visit artists' studios at the Williams Mill Visual Arts Centre, housed in former grist and sawmills, and shop for antiques in the Beaumont Mill, another industrial heritage building. You can go for a hike. You can watch artists at work, see glass blown, take a class, have a beer in the pub. You can build a canoe (really!) Throw in some charming rural scenery and a few tasty, cosy country places to eat, and you’re all set for a perfect girlfriend getaway or a great romantic weekend retreat. ==Understand== [[File:Charles Williams House, 514 Main Street, Glen Williams, Ontario, Canada.JPG|thumb|320px|Charles Williams House]] [[File:E. Y. Barraclough residence on Mountain Street in Glen Williams, Ontario, Canada.JPG|thumb|320px|Glen House (E. Y. Barraclough residence)]] ===Origins=== The Glen has nestled at this quiet place in the Credit River Valley since 1825. Founded by hardworking Loyalists who harnessed the power of the local stream to run saw and flour mills. They kept at it, built bobbin mills, grist mills, woollen mills, knitting mills. They build beautiful brick homes for their families out of locally made brick. They built a Town Hall, churches, shops, stores, a tannery, a post office. They built a community. ==Get in== ===By car=== From '''Georgetown, Ontario''': Glen Williams is north of Georgetown which is on Highway 7. From Highway 7, turn northwest onto Mountainview Rd N. Continue 2.0 km. onto Confederation St. and on to Main Street in the Glen. From '''Highway 401''': Hwy 401 west to Winston Churchill Blvd. N. 15 km north (just past Mayfield Rd) to left turn at Old School Road (22nd Side Road). Follow into Glen Williams. ===By train=== '''[http://www.viarail.ca/ VIA Rail]''' stops in Georgetown. '''[http://www.gotransit.ca GO Transit]''' provides rail service between Georgetown and Toronto. ===By bus=== '''[http://www.gotransit.ca GO Transit]''' also provides bus service between Georgetown and Toronto. ==Get around== {{mapframe}} Walking is convenient around the village core and parking is easily available. ==See== [[File:View of Glen Williams Park Ballfield, 509 Main Street, Glen Williams, Ontario, Canada.JPG|thumb|260px|Glen Williams Park Ballfield]] * {{see | name=Glen Williams Visual Arts Centre | url=http://www.williamsmill.com/ | email= gallery@williamsmill.com | address=515 Main Street | lat=43.669919 | long=-79.926128 | directions= | phone =+1 905 873-8203 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-Su and holiday Mondays noon – 5PM | price=Free | content=Historic buildings house the working studios of over 35 artists. In addition to rotating shows of 2-dimensional art, by individual artists or small groups, you can see and purchase a wide selection of pottery, fibre, glass, wood, jewellery, sculpture and other media. Williams Mill regularly invites guest artists and educators to hold classes in its heritage stone Education Centre overlooking Glen Williams Park and the Credit River. }} * {{see | name=Glen Williams Glass | url=http://www.glenwilliamsglass.com/ | email= glenwilliamsglass@gmail.com | address=515 Main Street | lat=43.670097 | long=-79.925875 | directions= | phone =+1 905-873-4092 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon-5PM and by chance or appointment | price=Free | content=A collective studio made up of seven independent glass artists, part of The Williams Mill. Glen Williams Glass is open daily, and welcomes visitors to observe the glassblowing process and enquire about the various techniques and styles of its seven members. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Glen Williams Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=509 Main St | lat=43.669172 | long=-79.926683 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | content=The park includes baseball diamonds, park pavilion, and flower gardens. Tradition and character have been preserved in the old dug out and concession stand. Glen Williams Park is the perfect place to have a picnic, organize a friendly game of baseball or listen to the tranquil sounds of Credit River flow by. }} * {{do | name=Hike the [[Bruce Trail]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=43.684297 | long=-79.927161 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A portion of the Bruce Trail, the hiking trail that runs along the Niagara Escarpment from [[Niagara Peninsula|Niagara]] to [[Tobermory (Ontario)|Tobermory]] runs just north of Glen Williams through the Scotsdale Farm, Silver Creek Conservation Area and on to the Terra Cotta Conservation Area. A side branch, the '''Credit Valley Footpath''', extends into and through the Glen. In full, this footpath stretches from the Bruce Trail at the Terra Cotta Conservation Area southeast to the base of the 10th Line and on east just past the ruin of the Barber Dynamo to the east of Glen Williams. }} * {{do | name=Shelagh Law Parkette | alt= | url= | email= | address=66 Confederation St | lat=43.66845 | long=-79.927569 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-01-11 | content=A riverside parkette in the Glen at the corner of Main & Confederation Streets, named after a local volunteer and Glen Williams Citizen of the Year for 1992, Shelagh Law. A fine place to take kids to splash around in the waters of the Credit River on a hot summer afternoon. }} * {{do | name=Dempster Boats | alt=Wooden Boats and Boards | url=http://www.dempsterboats.ca/ | email=info@dempsterboats.ca | address=515 Main St, Unit P | lat=43.669919 | long=-79.926128 | directions=Housed in the Williams Mill Visual Arts Centre, in the lower level of the stone building. | phone=+1 647-929-4336 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Ususlly M-F 9:30AM-3PM; call ahead to ensure staff are there. Evening hours and Saturday morning hours are available by class or by appointment only | price= | lastedit=2016-01-11 | content=Build your own boat, be it canoe, kayak, paddleboard. Build a skateboard even. Classes are essentially a series of one-on-one tutorials. They show you how to build one ‘corner’ of the boat. You do the second ‘corner’ under their watchful eye. Then you complete the remaining ‘corners’ on your own. You will be guided right through to the last step of building your boat including varnishing or painting.The focus is on making and repairing wood based gear for self-propelled recreation on land and water. }} ===Festivals=== * {{do | name= Canada Day | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= July 1st | price= A wonderful family day with no admission fees | content= Canada Day the Glen Williams way: Come enjoy breakfast, baseball games, parade at noon, children's games, entertainment and duck race. }} ==Buy== [[File:Reeve & Clarke Fine & Rare Books (former Frazier Shop) in which Timothy Eaton first worked in retail. Glen Williams, Ontario, Canada.JPG|thumb|260px|The storefront of Laidlaw House and the Frazier Shop, the oldest commercial building in the village, now Reeve & Clarke Fine & Rare Books]] * {{buy | name=Beaumont Mill Antiques and Collectibles | alt= | url=http://www.facebook.com/beaumontmillantiquesandcollectibles/?fref=ts | email= | address=586 Main Street| lat=43.676825 | long=-79.929317| directions= | phone=+1 905-873-4407 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-F 10AM-5PM, Sa 9AM-6PM, Su 9AM-6PM | price= | content= A multi-vendor antique and collectibles market housed in a turn-of-the-20th-century limestone knitting mill. 36 vendors offer a broad assortment of collectibles and antiques including a selection of antique, retro, vintage and primitive furniture, fine collectible glass including pressed glass and goblets, carnival glass, crystal, opalescent glass, depression glass, art glass and Fenton glass. Also on offer is fine china including Fuller dinner services, tea services figurines and vases. In stock are over 70 refurbished crystal chandeliers and a good assortment of vintage, industrial and Deco lighting. There is variety of original oil and water colours as well as prints. }} ** {{buy | name=The Record Store & Sports Collectibles | alt=At the Beaumont Mill Antiques Mall | url= | email=gregg.daniell@rogers.com | address=586 Main Street | lat= | long=| directions= | phone=+1 416-574-2427 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-F 10AM-5PM, Sa Su 9AM-6PM (and holiday Mondays) | price= | lastedit=2016-01-10 | content= Vintage Vinyl inventory includes thousands of titles with many more arriving every week. Music memorabilia, records, vinyl, 45s, EPs, LPs, 78s, albums, books, DVDs, laserdisc (also, sports and war books & goodies). }} * {{buy | name=Reeve & Clarke Fine and Rare Books | alt= | url=http://www.reeveandclarkebooks.ca/ | email=reeveandclarkebooks@bellnet.ca | address=521 Main Street | lat=43.670725 | long=-79.925831 | directions= | phone=+1 905-702-9935 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Th-Su 11AM-5PM, other times by chance or appointment | price= | lastedit=2016-01-10 | content= The storefront of Laidlaw House and the Frazier Shop in which Timothy Eaton (who founded Eaton's Department Store) first worked in retail, the oldest surviving commercial building in the village, now serves an antiquarian book business. Stock includes literature, travel, history, art, and children's books. Most are first editions. Also included are fine bindings, general antiquarian books, ephemera, and a selection of small antiques. }} * {{buy | name=The Hobby Horse Quilt Shoppe | alt= | url=http://thehobbyhorsequiltshoppe.com/ | email= | address=12707 9th Line (a continuation of Confederation Street) | lat=43.681647 | long=-79.945292 | directions= in the country a few miles north of Glen Williams | phone=+1 905-877-9292 | tollfree=+1-800-565-5366 | fax= | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-5:30PM; Su noon-4PM; closed on holidays | price=demos are free | lastedit=2016-01-11 | content=The Hobby Horse Quilt Shoppe is filled to the brim with everything a Quilter wants! Occasional demos, check the website or Facebook for notices. No need to call in advance to sign up. Just show up about 10 minutes ahead of the scheduled time. }} * {{buy | name=Sheridan Nurseries Garden Centre | alt=Georgetown Garden Centre | url=http://www.sheridannurseries.com/stores/georgetown | email=georgetown@sheridannurseries.com | address=12266 Tenth Line | lat=43.682347 | long=-79.922561 | directions= | phone=+1 905-873-7547 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Seasonal hours | price= | lastedit=2016-01-11 | content=A huge selection of large landscape-size trees and evergreens, more than 600 varieties of nursery stock. The outdoor shopping area has the largest selection of annuals, perennials and specialty plants in the area. Direct from the farm selection and pricing. Also offers "Make It & Take It" workshops and free learning sessions with simple, step-by-step instructions and tips. Check the website for schedules. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Kit's Little Kitchen | alt= | url=https://kitslittlekitchen.ca/ | email= | address=520 Main St | lat=43.670794 | long=-79.926136 | directions= | phone=+1 289-891-6602 | tollfree= | hours=W-F 8AM-5PM, Sa 9AM-4PM, Su 9AM-3PM | price= | lastedit=2023-03-06 | content=Cafe and bakery with sweet and savoury snacks, sandwiches, toasties, and quiche. }} * {{eat | name=The Glen Tavern | alt= | url=http://theglentavern.com/ | email=theglentavern@bellnet.com | address=515 Main Street | lat=43.669919 | long=-79.926128 | directions= | phone=+1 905-877-7711 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=W-Su from 5PM, open for Mother's Day from 3PM | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Seasonal, contemporary food, carefully selected wines and drinks in a convivial setting. Reservations recommended. }} ==Drink== [[File:Copper Kettle Pub (Wheeler's General Store), 517 Main Street, Glen Williams, Ontario, Canada.JPG|thumb|260px|The hamlet's General Store and Post Office for over a century, now the Copper Kettle Pub]] * {{drink | name=Copper Kettle Pub | alt= | url=http://www.copperkettle.ca/ | email=pub@copperkettle.ca | address=517 Main Street | lat=43.670375 | long=-79.925742 | directions= | phone=+1 905-877-5551 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su from 11AM | price= | lastedit=2016-12-20 | content= This historic landmark which served as the hamlet's General Store and Post Office for more than a century (built in 1852 by Charles Williams) is now local family owned and operated and has been renovated to bring an authentic, pub experience to the community. With daily chalkboard specials, all menu items are carefully prepared with locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. It features live music on Saturdays at 9PM-11:30PM and Sunday evenings 5PM-8PM, and has a selection of local craft beer & cider offerings on tap. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Bob's House (Airbnb listing) | alt= | url=https://www.airbnb.ca/rooms/13696879?s=cPrfX1jV | email= | address=Glen Williams, Ontario | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=$51 per night | lastedit=2017-03-27 | content=Close to art galleries, restaurants, cultural exhibits and antique shops. No smoking, Not suitable for pets, no parties or events, May not be safe or suitable for children (0-12 years), 2 nights minimum stay. }} ==Self-guided Walking tours== Several self-guided walking tours of Glen Williams are offered by the town of Halton Hills. These tours are available online and can be used from your mobile phone: *[https://tohh.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapTour/index.html?appid=9a22761ec7104c6186cc2747373d9094| Glen Williams: Heritage Tour] *[https://tohh.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapTour/index.html?appid=85b73f39edf74ff8872fa155f6f0fa08| Glen Williams: Half Day Hiking & Heritage (Pilot Tour)] *[https://tohh.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapTour/index.html?appid=959e1a57497d44c58da2b6737dfd5765| Glen Williams: Full Day Hiking & Heritage (Pilot Tour)]] Below is a description and directions for a self-guided walking tour. This tour includes the hamlet's Listed and Designated Heritage Properties: You may park your vehicle at the Glen Williams Park, 509 Main Street. Start your tour at Main Street, at the entrance to the park. Most of these properties are still private homes so please respect the homeowners: * '''Williams-Holt House (Williams Chair Factory) - 504 Main Street:''' Designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. Built as a cabinet and chair factory by Issac Williams, son of the Glen Williams founder Benajah Williams. Associated with the neighboring tool factory since both buildings are the same size and have identical facades. Good example of the Georgian style. * '''Williams Edge Tool Factory - 508 Main Street:''' It was used as the “Edge Tool Factory” until 1870; associated with the neighboring cabinet and chair factory since both buildings are the same size and have identical facades; good example of the Georgian style. * '''Williams House - 510 Main Street:''' Built and occupied by Dr. Moffatt Forester who married Charles Williams' daughter Elizabeth; the Williams Family ran the cabinet and tool factories at 504 and 508 Main Street; good example of the Georgian style of architecture. * '''Joseph Williams House - 511 Main Street:''' Residence was built for Joseph Williams when he was the manager of the Williams Mill; Joseph was the third generation of Williams. * '''Charles Williams House - 514 Main Street:''' Built for Charles Williams, patriarch of the second generation of the Williams who founded the village; home of Joseph Beaumont, owner of the Beaumont Knitting Mills; excellent example of a Gothic Revival style residence. * '''Williams Mill - 515 Main Street: c. 1852/1901;''' Designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. Village sawmill built by Williams family and first hydro-electric plant. * '''General Store and Post Office (Copper Kettle) - 517 Main Street:''' Built by Charles Williams, of the Williams family that founded the village, as a general store; served as the local general store and post office until 1972; good example of a commercial building with excellent decorative brickwork. Here, keep to the right and head up Prince Street: * '''Glen Williams Town Hall - 1 Prince Street: 1871''' - Designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. Built of local brick in a Colonial Cape Cod style. It has been central to the history of the Village & associated with Canadian author Lucy Maud Montgomery, author of the Anne Shirley books including ''Anne of Green Gables''. * '''Schenk House/Blacksmith Shop - 3 Prince Street:''' Good example of brick industrial building from the 1870s; owned by William Tost, a local blacksmith who operated a carriage works out of a two-storey residence and owned the patent for the “iron beam harrow”; the building was later used by William Schenk who operated an Orange Crush bottling business. * '''Alexander House - 6 Prince Street:''' Good example of Georgian architectural style; the property was first owned by William Alexander, owner of the Glen hotel; the barn on the property is thought to be the first Glen Williams School House. * '''Hawkins Shop - 7 Prince Street:''' One of the original store buildings from the Village’s core. * '''Norton House - 9 Prince Street:''' Owned by school teacher Theophilus Norton; Good example of a two-storey Gothic Revival home. * '''School House - 15 Prince Street:''' Served as a two-room school house for 75 years; land donated by mill owner Charles Williams. Here you have the choice to continue a short distance further up Prince Street to the Glen Williams Cemetery and its commanding view of the hamlet in the valley below. Retrace your steps back down Prince Street to Main: * '''Laidlaw House and the Frazier Shop (Reeve & Clarke Fine & Rare Books) - 519 and 521 Main Street:''' Designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. Laidlaw House was built in 1858 by James S. Laidlaw. The Frazier Shop, built in 1847 by Thomas Frazier, is an excellent preserved example of an early Victorian commercial building. Also associated with Timothy Eaton (future founder of the T. Eaton commercial empire) who was hired to serve as a clerk and bookkeeper. * '''524 Main Street:''' Associated with Mr. William Alexander, a local innkeeper and Thomas Jefferson Hill, the father of the first mayor of Halton Hills. The hotel provided rooms and meals for salesmen, farmers and merchants who had business in Glen Williams. * '''Beaumont Duplex - 526 & 528 Main Street:''' Associated with Joseph Beaumont, owner of Beaumont Knitting Mills who likely built the building as worker housing. Good example of Gothic Revival architecture used in row housing. * '''Logan Cottage - 530 Main Street:''' Unique stone addition built on original stone cottage (rear). * '''531 Main Street:''' Associated with James Laidlaw who built the house; built very similar to the frame house at 532 Main Street; Early Village vernacular residence. * '''532 Main Street:''' Associated with John Rutledge, a local butcher, who owned the building; good example of an early Vernacular building in the Village of Glen Williams. * '''St. John’s United Church - 533 Main Street:''' Unique wood-frame Methodist church built 1840 and bricked over in 1903. Has functioned as a church since 1840; in the heart of Glen Williams next to the Credit River. * '''Tannery - 536 Main Street:''' Associated with Thomas Board, owner of the Dominion Glove Works as a tannery; Purchased by Joseph Beaumont in 1906 as a complement to his Beaumont Knitting Mills. * '''St. Alban’s Anglican Church - 537 & 539 Main Street:''' Associated with Rose Ann McMaster, a prominent local who donated land for the church; has functioned as a church since 1902; designed by architect F.S. Baker. Cross the street to climb Mountain Street: * '''Barraclough House - 25 Mountain Street:''' The home was built for John Sykes the owner of Sykes and Ainley Manufacturing Company and later resided in by E.Y. Barraclough, General Manager of the Glen Woolen Mills Company. Located on an embankment overlooking the Credit River; unusual example of Edwardian style of architecture including a unique stain glass window. * '''28 Mountain Street:''' The home was built for Norman Ainley, owner of the Sykes and Ainley Manufacturing Company. * '''Mino Cottage - 24 Mountain Street:''' Good example of a 1850s cottage; built by George Mino, a local labourer. * '''Francis Williams House - 15 Mountain Street:''' The house was built for Woolen Mills Company owner Jacob William's widow; It later served as Thompson and Wilson Ginger Beer Bottling Facility; Good example of Georgian style architecture with Gothic Revival tail. Come back down Mountain and turn left onto Tweedle Street: * '''David Williams House - 3 Tweedle Street:''' Owned by Benajah Williams and the Woollen Mill Company. * '''Woollen Mills Housing – 5, 7 & 9 Tweedle Street:''' Glen Woollen Mills Company had storage sheds on the site until the early 20th century; 5, 7 and 9 Tweedle Street were built as worker housing for the mill employees; used from 1964-1981 as housing for Sheridan Nurseries. * '''Labourers Cottage - 11 Tweedle Street:''' Owned by one of the first property owners in Glen Williams, John Rutledge, who was also a butcher. * '''14 Tweedle Street''' - Excellent example of the Gothic Revival style; built by Sykes and Ainsley Woollen Mills as a worker’s home. * '''Mino House - 22 Tweedle Street:''' Good example of the Gothic Revival style; built by George Mino, a local labourer. Backtrack slightly and follow Forster Street to return to Main Street. This short hill you are descending is the subject of a painting by Group of Seven artist [http://www.glenwilliams.org/our-village/arts-culture/ A.J. Casson, "Village Street October"]. At the bottom of the hill you can choose to turn left on Main and continue a short distance to another bridge again crossing the Credit River. If you continue beyond the bridge you will shortly enter the area of the village which is the subject of Casson's 1938 oil on canvas, "Street in Glen Williams", a leafy, autumnal portrait of a quiet road in the hamlet, which sold at auction in Toronto in 2010 for a record $542,800, including buyer's premium, the highest such valuation ever accorded a Casson canvas. Mr. Casson, who joined the Group of Seven in 1926, "recorded small towns in every season," Canadian art critic and historian Paul Duval wrote in 1980, "and Street in Glen Williams is unquestionably his key autumn portrayal." Now backtrack along Main Street to: * '''554 Main Street:''' The house is of a pattern similar to several others in the Village which provided comfortable family homes for factory workers. * '''Holdroyd House - 552 Main Street:''' Owned by the bookkeeper for the Sykes and Ainley Mills Harry Holdroyd on a large prominent corner lot. * '''Isaac Cook House - 549 Main Street:''' Owned by William Alexander who owned the Glen Hotel and later his son Thomas Alexander, the Village’s blacksmith. * '''541 Main Street:''' Typical example of a frame residence from the 1850s. * '''548 Main Street:''' Good example of an early Village vernacular residence; may have been constructed for mill employees. * '''Murray House - 543 Main Street:''' Owned by John Murray a local carpenter; Three generations of Murrays lived in the home. Early example board and batten frame house. ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=VIA Rail Sarnia Toronto icon.png | imagesize1=100 | link1=Windsor-Quebec corridor | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Kitchener]] | minorl1=[[Guelph]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Toronto]] | minorr1=[[Brampton]] | image2=Ontario 7.svg | imagesize2=20 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Kitchener]] | minorl2=[[Acton (Ontario)|Acton]] | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Markham]] | minorr2=becomes Peel 107 → [[Brampton]] | image3=GO Transit Kitchener icon.png | imagesize3=100 | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Kitchener]] | minorl3=[[Acton (Ontario)|Acton]] | directionr3=E | majorr3=[[Toronto/Entertainment and Financial Districts|Toronto]] | minorr3=[[Brampton]] }} {{geo|43.670458|-79.925831}} {{IsPartOf|Halton (Ontario)}} {{usablecity}} q5g3xrrbkj0fp0c8f4dq8e8nju4czdm 0 148697 5091146 4517126 2025-07-11T02:06:27Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091146 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia}} [[File:Field in punjab.jpg|thumb|Field near Okara]] Okara is the 25th largest city of Pakistan, known for it's fertile and lush green fields it lies in between three major cities of Pakistan. Lahore, Faisalabad and Multan, 120km,80km,185km away respectively. Often tourist call okara as Mini Lahore, while the district is unparalleled to any other is milk production making it "the milk lake of Pakistan". Okara always had an important role is the nation's politics major political leader live in Okara. Due to Okara's strategically importance in politics. Okara is renowned as the city of ministers. As the city also lies on the Radcliffe line with India. It also has a major cantonment. ==Understand== ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Southern Punjab}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|30.80909|73.447723}} 0jwzhp4mogmaod0fr8cwxz2kcykw49f 0 149912 5091248 5066103 2025-07-11T08:39:01Z 80.187.80.102 Dead link label removed, link is working fine. 5091248 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Paris-Orly Airport Wikivoyage Banner.jpg}} '''[https://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/orly-airport Paris Orly Airport]'''({{IATA|ORY}}) is the second airport of [[Paris]] and second largest airport in France. It is south of Paris, and closer but smaller than [[Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport]]. Besides its role as a domestic hub, it also handles many flights to destinations around the Mediterranean Sea, former colonies or territories like [[French Guiana]], and a few long-haul flights. ==Understand== [[File:Paris-Orly airport.jpg|thumb|Paris Orly Airport]] There are four terminals. The former "Terminal Sud" (south) is now terminal 4, and the former "Terminal Ouest" (west) is now terminals 1, 2 and 3. All four terminals are connected: the Orlyval people mover shuttles between them, but it is also possible to walk in about 10 minutes. ==Flights== Check with your airline before leaving for the airport. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are mainly used by the "major" European airlines (Air France, British Airways, easyJet, Iberia, TAP...), while terminal 4 is used by secondary, low-cost, or non-European airlines (Air Algérie, Corsair, Norwegian, Transavia, Tunisair, Royal Air Maroc...). ==Ground transportation== ===By train=== The easiest option for most visitors is to take Metro line 14 directly from the airport to the city centre (between 05:30 and 01:15 every 5 min, duration is 21 min to Gare de Lyon, 25 min to Châtelet-Les Halles). An alternative option is to take the [http://www.orlyval.com Orlyval] people mover from the airport to Antony station (between 06:00 and 23:35 every 7 min, duration is 6 min), and from there connecting to the RER B train to Paris (between 05:00 and midnight every 15 min, duration is 15 min to Denfert-Rochereau, 23 min to Chatelet les Halles). A full-fare single "Airports Ticket" costs €13 and is valid for either option. The ticket allows you to transfer to other Metro, RER or Transilien lines throughout Paris. Paris Visite Tickets are valid for either option. Week and Month Tickets are valid on Metro line 14 only. Day Tickets are not valid for either option. ===By tram=== A cheaper but slower option is to take Tram line T7 to Villejuif-Louis Aragon station (between 05:30 and 00:30, every 15 min, duration is 30 min), then Metro line 7 to the city centre (between 05:30 and 01:15, every 5 min, duration is 20 minutes to Chatelet). You'll need a "Bus-Tram Ticket" (€2) for the tram and a "Métro-Train-RER Ticket" (€2.50) for the Metro. Paris Visite, Day, Week and Month Tickets are also valid. ===By bus=== The cheapest option is to stick to bus and tram only. There are two options: * Take bus 183 from the airport to Robert Peary, then Tram line T9 from Four - Peary to Porte de Choisy (between 06:00 and 00:20, M-Su). * Take Tram line T7 from the airport to Porte de Rungis, then bus 216 from Porte de Rungis to Denfert-Rochereau (between 06:00 and 20:00, M-F only). You'll only need a "Bus-Tram Ticket" (€2). Paris Visite, Day, Week and Month Tickets are also valid. ===At night=== [https://www.ratp.fr/en/getting-around-night/its-easy-get-around-night Noctilien buses] serve Orly airport roughly every hour between 01:00 and 05:00. There are two options: * Line N131 serves Gare de Lyon, Gare d'Austerlitz, Quai de la Gare, Bibliothèque François Mitterrand, Orly 1-2-3, and Orly 4. * Line N144 serves Gare de l'Est, Chatelet, Bastille, Gare de Lyon, Place d'Italie, and Orly 4. You'll need a "Bus-Tram Ticket" (€2). Paris Visite, Day, Week and Month Tickets are also valid. ==Get around== The Orlyval people mover is free to use between the terminals, taking only 1 minute. It runs every day from 06:00 to 23:00, every 5 minutes during peak hours, every 7½ minutes off-peak. A [http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/access/paris-orly/inter-terminal-shuttles free shuttle bus] links terminals 1-2-3 and 4, with intermediate stops at the P6 car park / Ibis hotel / police station, the P4 car park, the P7 car park, and the P5 car park. It runs every 9 to 19 minutes, every day from 03:30 (04:30 between November and March) to 00:30. ==Wait== ==Eat and drink== Food and beverage is available throughout each terminal. Hours of operation vary, however, aside from the very early morning and late evening there will be options before and after security. Prices can range greatly and less expensive dining options can be found, however, expect to pay slightly inflated prices regardless of cuisine and level of service. At the terminal 4: * {{eat | name=Bert's | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/bert's | email= | address=South terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 49 75 36 91 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=5am-9:30pm | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Brioche Dorée | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/brioche-dor%C3%A9e | email= | address=South terminal, level 0 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 74 22 10 55, +33 1 74 22 05 83 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=One is opened 07:00-23:30, the other one 03:30-20:30 | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Espressamente Illy | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/espressamente-illy | email= | address=South terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 74 22 07 86 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=05:00-23:30 (23:00 on weekends) | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Exki | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/exki | email= | address=South terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 49 75 78 37, +33 1 74 22 06 93 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=One is opened 04:30-22:30 (23:00 on weekends), the other one 05:00-21:30 | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Le Clos Saint-Germain | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/le-clos-saint-germain | email= | address=South terminal, level 3 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 49 75 78 23 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Monday-Friday 11:30-19:00 | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mc Donald's | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/mc-donald's | email= | address=South terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 49 75 10 13 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=05:00-23:00 | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Paul | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/paul | email= | address=South terminal, 1 on level 0, 2 on level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 04:30-21:00 or 05:30-21:30 | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Starbucks Coffee | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/starbucks-coffee | email= | address=South terminal, level 0 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 74 22 10 51 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=04:30-20:30 | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Zumo | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/zumo | email= | address=South terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 70 03 75 31 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=07:00-20:00 | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} At the terminal 1-2-3: * {{eat | name=BOCO | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/boco | email= | address=West terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 74 22 06 60 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=05:30-21:30 | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Caviar House & Prunier Seafood Bar | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/caviar-house-prunier-seafood-bar | email= | address=West terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 49 75 06 90 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=07:00-21:30 | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Eric Kayser | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/eric-kayser | email= | address=West terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 74 22 12 65 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=06:30-21:00 | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Espressamente Illy | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/espressamente-illy | email= | address=West terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 49 75 07 28 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6:30am-9pm (11pm on weekends) | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Exki | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/exki | email= | address=West terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 49 75 05 50, +33 1 74 22 18 40 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=4:30am-9:30pm for one, 7am-9:30pm for the other | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Ladurée, Restaurant - Salon de thé | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/ladur%C3%A9e-restaurant---salon-de-th%C3%A9 | email= | address=West terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 74 22 07 77 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6am-9pm | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Monop'Daily | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/monop'daily | email= | address=West terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 49 75 16 86 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6am-10:30pm | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Paul | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/paul | email= | address=West terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 49 75 16 82, +33 1 74 22 08 78 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=5:30am-9pm | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Red Café / Red d'HIPPO | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/red-d'hippo | email= | address=West terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 70 03 70 81 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6am-9:30pm (restaurant from 11:30am) | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Starbucks Coffee | alt= | url=http://www.parisaeroport.fr/en/passengers/shops/shopping/store/starbucks-coffee | email= | address=West terminal, level 1 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+33 1 74 22 09 20 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=5am-9:30pm (restaurant from 11:30am) | price= | lastedit=2016-04-24 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Connect== Free WiFi is available throughout the airport terminals. The network name is "WIFI-AIRPORT" An email address is required to connect. Some instant messaging services such as WhatsApp are periodically blocked. Power outlets and charging stations are located throughout the terminals both before and after security. The outlets are the standard Europlug style at 220 Volts. ==Cope== Passengers with long layovers and passengers who are stranded will find there are few benches and no public shower facilities in the airport. Air France lounges have such facilities. Lounge access is included for Air France business and first class travellers. The members of Air France and cooperating frequent flyer programs may gain access with sufficient status. There is a possibility that some lounges may grant access to travellers on their flights for a fee. If you would consider paying for access to the lounge, inquire when checking in for your departure. Alternatively, the airport hotels generally have rooms available. ==Sleep== There are many hotels available for travellers at Orly. Most hotels are located nearby off the airport grounds. ==Nearby== * The most obvious place to go to from the airport is [[Paris]], the city it serves. {{IsPartOf|Île-de-France}} {{outlineairport}} {{geo|48.723333|2.379444}} eza3lfxrh6et0a8kmltyqklacu53sgb 1 150673 5091091 4932647 2025-07-10T23:42:39Z Faster than Thunder 2260653 /* Kosher food */ new section 5091091 wikitext text/x-wiki == Directions for development of this article == Indian, or South Asian cuisine is a huge topic! This is a Subcontinent we're talking about, and the variety of different regional cuisines is tremendous! But in order to avoid encyclopedic detail and keep a travel focus, it's essential for us to focus on particular places that are associated with particular cuisines or special(i)ties. For example, Mysore rava masala dosas from [[Mysore]]; the various aspects of [[Chennai|Madrasi]] cuisine; [[Awadh]]i cuisine, such as in [[Lucknow]], which is associated with the [[Mughal Empire]]; [[Gujarat]]i vegetarian cuisine, which also often avoids other items eschewed by orthodox Brahmins, I think (I'd have to review this); the dumpakht dishes of the Parsees, who are mostly in [[Mumbai]] and [[Gujarat]]. Also, look at [[India#Eat]], [[Bangladesh#Eat]], and even more so, [[Pakistan#Eat]], which is quite a good section. Also look at "Eat" sections of articles for states of India, Pakistan, etc.; for example, [[Kerala#Eat]] is informative. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:24, 10 June 2016 (UTC) :I would have to say some of those sections are still more informative than this article. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 13:06, 1 December 2020 (UTC) == Spices == In the ingredient listing for "Spices", should we mention commonly used spices and also specify those that are used with particular frequency and typicality in particular areas? For example, mustard seeds are used in many Indian cuisines but Bengali cuisine particularly emphasizes them. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 13:01, 1 December 2020 (UTC) :I'm no expert on this, but in Singapore, cloves, cumin and turmeric are fairly common when you eat Indian food. If you're knowledgeable, feel free to cover some of the differences between South Asia and the Middle East. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 04:52, 2 December 2020 (UTC) ::I wouldn't cover spices as different from Middle Eastern food but in terms of being used in the Subcontinent, but my knowledge of regional cuisines is hardly expert, and there are some I don't know at all (I've never been to a Chhatisgari restaurant nor to Chhatisgar, for example). [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:23, 2 December 2020 (UTC) == Roti and chapati == [[W:Chapati]] says: "Chapati is a form of ''roti'' or ''rotta'' (bread). The words are often used interchangeably." However, in Malaysia, they are not the same, as for example, ''roti canai'' is distinguished from ''capati'', although they can be served with the same sauce. And indeed further down in the same Wikipedia article, we read this: "In most parts of the Indian subcontinent, there is a distinction made between a chapati and other related flatbreads eaten in the region like roti, paratha, kulcha, puri and naan based on cooking technique, texture and use of different types of flours. For example, parathas are either made layered by spreading with ghee, folding and rolling out again into a disc which turns out flakey once cooked or is filled with spinach, dal or cooked radish or potato. Parathas are mostly made using all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour." So I think the entry in this article that simply says "''Roti'': Also known as ''chapati''" should be edited. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:22, 1 February 2022 (UTC) : Here's a video from Singapore describing the difference between different types of Indian flatbrads: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=865-a3YIhfk]. As you can see, chapati is a very specific type of flatbread. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 20:22, 1 February 2022 (UTC) ::Fun video. I want to go to all the stalls. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:40, 1 February 2022 (UTC) :::The description here refers to chapati. In Northern India, Pakistan and parts of Nepal, they are often interchangeable in the sense that chapatis are regularly called rotis because they are the most common type of roti. In other contexts, they are not interchangeable, especially when roti is used as the generic word for flatbread or bread. Technically naans, parathas and everything else is a roti. Sandwiches (using Western sliced bread) are called "double roti" in India. Also specific rotis like the rumali roti is never called the rumali chapati. In the diaspora countries, roti has evolved to mean different specific flatbreads and in each regions (Caribbean, Malaysia/Singapore, Mauritius, Fiji, etc.) it has branched into different forms. But this is the situation in the motherland countries. Roti is also the generic word for food in the regions where it is a staple, similar to how rice is interchangeable for food in Thailand. The Hindi phrase "Roti, kapda aur makaan" literally means "Bread, clothes and houses" but more generally means "Food, clothing and shelter" and refers to the basic economic necessities of life. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 23:10, 1 February 2022 (UTC) ::::Saying that chapati is the most common type of roti in a region is not the same as saying that it is identical to roti, period, or that roti is universally "also known as chapati". Roti generically means "bread" in Malay, too, but in specific contexts, roti is distinguished from capati, paratta and so on. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 00:03, 2 February 2022 (UTC) :::::Yes I agree they are not identical in all contexts and so to say that roti is also known as chapati is not accurate. But the second bullet point in the bread section is describing what a chapati is, not what a roti is which is broader. The images here both show chapatis though one of the file names calls it roti. [[File:Tava_Roti_02.jpg|thumb|]] [[File:2_Chapati_warm_and_ready_to_be_eaten.jpg|thumb]]. Rather than say one is also known as the other, I suggest renaming the bullet point to chapati, split the variations ''makki di roti'' to another bullet point because it is not, strictly speaking, a chapati and clarify that many people would in their day-to-day conversations also refer to chapatis as rotis, though roti encompasses much more than just the chapati. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 07:11, 2 February 2022 (UTC) ::::::All of that sounds good to me. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:08, 2 February 2022 (UTC) :::::::Yeah, that sounds good to me too. I don't know what is the word in Tamil, but in Singapore, ''roti'' is also the generic word for bread in Malay, and has in fact been borrowed into the varieties of Chinese dialects spoken in Singapore. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 15:42, 2 February 2022 (UTC) ==Paratha and parotta== {{ping|DaGizza}} Do you think we should explain the differences between North India paratha and South Indian parotta. From what I see, the dough is usually rolled to make it thin, then folded with ghee between the layers in North India, but is made thin by flipping it in the air in South India (or at least, in Tamil Nadu). Roti prata in Singapore basically uses the same flipping technique that they use to make parotta in Tamil Nadu. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 17:54, 3 February 2022 (UTC) :Yes I think we should. They are different flatbreads despite the shared etymology. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 22:17, 4 February 2022 (UTC) == Kosher food == India has long traditions of vegetarianism and emphasizing purity, making it a reputable place for finding ''uncertified'' kosher food (outside the obvious Israel). There, the safest bet for a kosher observer is to stick to the ubiquitous purely vegetarian restaurants serving no meat, since those nearly always avoid cross-contamination with nonkosher foodstuff, even in their utensils and equipment (and even then, finding ''certified'' kosher food is difficult in India). Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal consume significantly more meat than India, and with the exception of Nepal, Hindus do not make up the majority everywhere. I would recommend adding: :India has long traditions of vegetarianism and ritual purity, and purely vegetarian restaurants are ubiquitous, serve no meat, and ensure purity of their equipment, so '''kosher''' travelers should have a relatively easy time finding food suitable for them in India depending on their level of observance. Be aware that religious purity rarely actually aspires to kashrut, and finding ''certified'' establishments is still difficult in India. However, finding kosher food is ''very difficult'' in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal, so you may want to stock up in India before entering. [[User:Faster than Thunder|Faster than Thunder]] ([[User talk:Faster than Thunder|talk]]) 23:42, 10 July 2025 (UTC) nkhqnvljy94k8m8gwaefiexghoo17m3 5091187 5091091 2025-07-11T04:54:31Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* Kosher food */ Reply 5091187 wikitext text/x-wiki == Directions for development of this article == Indian, or South Asian cuisine is a huge topic! This is a Subcontinent we're talking about, and the variety of different regional cuisines is tremendous! But in order to avoid encyclopedic detail and keep a travel focus, it's essential for us to focus on particular places that are associated with particular cuisines or special(i)ties. For example, Mysore rava masala dosas from [[Mysore]]; the various aspects of [[Chennai|Madrasi]] cuisine; [[Awadh]]i cuisine, such as in [[Lucknow]], which is associated with the [[Mughal Empire]]; [[Gujarat]]i vegetarian cuisine, which also often avoids other items eschewed by orthodox Brahmins, I think (I'd have to review this); the dumpakht dishes of the Parsees, who are mostly in [[Mumbai]] and [[Gujarat]]. Also, look at [[India#Eat]], [[Bangladesh#Eat]], and even more so, [[Pakistan#Eat]], which is quite a good section. Also look at "Eat" sections of articles for states of India, Pakistan, etc.; for example, [[Kerala#Eat]] is informative. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:24, 10 June 2016 (UTC) :I would have to say some of those sections are still more informative than this article. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 13:06, 1 December 2020 (UTC) == Spices == In the ingredient listing for "Spices", should we mention commonly used spices and also specify those that are used with particular frequency and typicality in particular areas? For example, mustard seeds are used in many Indian cuisines but Bengali cuisine particularly emphasizes them. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 13:01, 1 December 2020 (UTC) :I'm no expert on this, but in Singapore, cloves, cumin and turmeric are fairly common when you eat Indian food. If you're knowledgeable, feel free to cover some of the differences between South Asia and the Middle East. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 04:52, 2 December 2020 (UTC) ::I wouldn't cover spices as different from Middle Eastern food but in terms of being used in the Subcontinent, but my knowledge of regional cuisines is hardly expert, and there are some I don't know at all (I've never been to a Chhatisgari restaurant nor to Chhatisgar, for example). [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:23, 2 December 2020 (UTC) == Roti and chapati == [[W:Chapati]] says: "Chapati is a form of ''roti'' or ''rotta'' (bread). The words are often used interchangeably." However, in Malaysia, they are not the same, as for example, ''roti canai'' is distinguished from ''capati'', although they can be served with the same sauce. And indeed further down in the same Wikipedia article, we read this: "In most parts of the Indian subcontinent, there is a distinction made between a chapati and other related flatbreads eaten in the region like roti, paratha, kulcha, puri and naan based on cooking technique, texture and use of different types of flours. For example, parathas are either made layered by spreading with ghee, folding and rolling out again into a disc which turns out flakey once cooked or is filled with spinach, dal or cooked radish or potato. Parathas are mostly made using all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour." So I think the entry in this article that simply says "''Roti'': Also known as ''chapati''" should be edited. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 10:22, 1 February 2022 (UTC) : Here's a video from Singapore describing the difference between different types of Indian flatbrads: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=865-a3YIhfk]. As you can see, chapati is a very specific type of flatbread. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 20:22, 1 February 2022 (UTC) ::Fun video. I want to go to all the stalls. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:40, 1 February 2022 (UTC) :::The description here refers to chapati. In Northern India, Pakistan and parts of Nepal, they are often interchangeable in the sense that chapatis are regularly called rotis because they are the most common type of roti. In other contexts, they are not interchangeable, especially when roti is used as the generic word for flatbread or bread. Technically naans, parathas and everything else is a roti. Sandwiches (using Western sliced bread) are called "double roti" in India. Also specific rotis like the rumali roti is never called the rumali chapati. In the diaspora countries, roti has evolved to mean different specific flatbreads and in each regions (Caribbean, Malaysia/Singapore, Mauritius, Fiji, etc.) it has branched into different forms. But this is the situation in the motherland countries. Roti is also the generic word for food in the regions where it is a staple, similar to how rice is interchangeable for food in Thailand. The Hindi phrase "Roti, kapda aur makaan" literally means "Bread, clothes and houses" but more generally means "Food, clothing and shelter" and refers to the basic economic necessities of life. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 23:10, 1 February 2022 (UTC) ::::Saying that chapati is the most common type of roti in a region is not the same as saying that it is identical to roti, period, or that roti is universally "also known as chapati". Roti generically means "bread" in Malay, too, but in specific contexts, roti is distinguished from capati, paratta and so on. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 00:03, 2 February 2022 (UTC) :::::Yes I agree they are not identical in all contexts and so to say that roti is also known as chapati is not accurate. But the second bullet point in the bread section is describing what a chapati is, not what a roti is which is broader. The images here both show chapatis though one of the file names calls it roti. [[File:Tava_Roti_02.jpg|thumb|]] [[File:2_Chapati_warm_and_ready_to_be_eaten.jpg|thumb]]. Rather than say one is also known as the other, I suggest renaming the bullet point to chapati, split the variations ''makki di roti'' to another bullet point because it is not, strictly speaking, a chapati and clarify that many people would in their day-to-day conversations also refer to chapatis as rotis, though roti encompasses much more than just the chapati. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 07:11, 2 February 2022 (UTC) ::::::All of that sounds good to me. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:08, 2 February 2022 (UTC) :::::::Yeah, that sounds good to me too. I don't know what is the word in Tamil, but in Singapore, ''roti'' is also the generic word for bread in Malay, and has in fact been borrowed into the varieties of Chinese dialects spoken in Singapore. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 15:42, 2 February 2022 (UTC) ==Paratha and parotta== {{ping|DaGizza}} Do you think we should explain the differences between North India paratha and South Indian parotta. From what I see, the dough is usually rolled to make it thin, then folded with ghee between the layers in North India, but is made thin by flipping it in the air in South India (or at least, in Tamil Nadu). Roti prata in Singapore basically uses the same flipping technique that they use to make parotta in Tamil Nadu. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 17:54, 3 February 2022 (UTC) :Yes I think we should. They are different flatbreads despite the shared etymology. [[User:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">Gizza</span>]]^{(<i>[[User_talk:DaGizza|<span style="color:teal">roam</span>]]</i>)} 22:17, 4 February 2022 (UTC) == Kosher food == India has long traditions of vegetarianism and emphasizing purity, making it a reputable place for finding ''uncertified'' kosher food (outside the obvious Israel). There, the safest bet for a kosher observer is to stick to the ubiquitous purely vegetarian restaurants serving no meat, since those nearly always avoid cross-contamination with nonkosher foodstuff, even in their utensils and equipment (and even then, finding ''certified'' kosher food is difficult in India). Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal consume significantly more meat than India, and with the exception of Nepal, Hindus do not make up the majority everywhere. I would recommend adding: :India has long traditions of vegetarianism and ritual purity, and purely vegetarian restaurants are ubiquitous, serve no meat, and ensure purity of their equipment, so '''kosher''' travelers should have a relatively easy time finding food suitable for them in India depending on their level of observance. Be aware that religious purity rarely actually aspires to kashrut, and finding ''certified'' establishments is still difficult in India. However, finding kosher food is ''very difficult'' in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal, so you may want to stock up in India before entering. [[User:Faster than Thunder|Faster than Thunder]] ([[User talk:Faster than Thunder|talk]]) 23:42, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :I quibble with the phrasing a bit. The point is that vegetarian food lacks any specifically treyf ingredients, and the dishware and cutlery, if bought for the establishment, likely have never been touched by meat (or you could say that is guaranteed if you feel 100% certain of it). Therefore, kosher-observant people who don't follow the letter of traditional halacha that requires certification by a rabbi may feel fine about eating it. However, "uncertified kosher" is an oxymoron to anyone who observes the laws of kashrut as laid down in the Tanakh, Talmud and other commentaries. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 04:54, 11 July 2025 (UTC) ozgl2s3yg6nc4pw74y8wcvenvrst849 0 154912 5091051 5085900 2025-07-10T20:42:10Z Bluecoordinationfine 2327039 After reading the wikipedia page, it seems like cumulative elevation loss would be a kind of duplicate data. It's the same as cumulative elevation gain, when taking into account the elevation of the start and end of the stage. Wikidata only has cumulative elevation gain on hiking trails. Probably for this reason? 5091051 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Njupeskär waterfall banner.jpg|caption=Njupeskär waterfall}} '''Södra Kungsleden''' is a hiking trail that runs through Sweden's southern mountain region, in [[Dalarna]], [[Härjedalen]] and Jämtland, near the border to [[Norway]]. It officially extends for about 350 km between [[Sälen]] in the south and [[Storlien]] in the north, but the name is mainly used in Dalarna (180 km). ==Understand== {{see also|Hiking in the Nordic countries|Right to access}} The trail is a southern extension to the older and more famous [[Kungsleden]], and part of the [[E1 Long Distance Path]]. It was laid out in the 1990s. Södra Kungsleden passes through scenic areas such as Transtrandsfjällen, Fulufjället National Park with Sweden's highest waterfall Njupeskär, and the ancient tree Old Tjikko. The trail also crosses Drevfjällen, Grövelsjön, and the Långfjället highlands. In Härjedalen, it traverses the lake-studded Rogen area, while in Jämtland it reaches the alpine landscapes of Sylarna. This is a moderately challenging trail for hikers with multi-day experience and appropriate fitness, with generally moderate ascents and descents outside of specific challenging sections. Motor vehicles are not allowed, and snowmobiles must stay on marked routes. Reindeer are common along the trail; keep a respectful distance. {{Panorama | image = Södra Kungsleden Elevation Profile.png | caption = Södra Kungsleden Elevation Profile | box-width = 100% | border = no | width = 700px }} ==Prepare== Södra Kungsleden runs through remote mountain terrain, so thorough preparation is essential. Bring proper hiking gear suited for changing weather, including rain protection and warm layers, even in summer. A detailed topographic map (such as Fjällkartan BD6 or BD8), compass, and basic first aid kit are recommended. Some sections are far from services, so plan your food and fuel supplies accordingly. Mobile coverage is limited. ==Get in== {{marker|type=go|counter=n| name= [[Sälen]] |wikidata= Q1011739}} can be reached by Road 66. It comes in from [[Malung]] in the south, on [[E45]], and continues to Norwegian road 25, in turn coming in from [[Elverum]] in the west. [https://scandinavianmountains.se/en Scandinavian Mountains Airport] (Sälen Trysil Airport {{IATA|SCR}}), between Sälen and the border to Norway, 20 km from Högfjället, has domestic and international flights during winter and spring, and some domestic flights in summer. The nearest year-round international airport is in [[Oslo]]. Oslo is 220 km from Sälen, drive via Elverum. The southern terminus of the trail is at Högfjällshotellet in Sälen, at the ski resort. The village Sälen is down in the valley. {{marker|type=go|counter=n| name= [[Storlien]] |wikidata= Q2299668}} has night trains from Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö. It is 73 km from [[Trondheim]], which has an international airport. The northern terminus of the trail is at Storliens Fjällgård, which is to the southeast of the village of Storlien. ==Walk== {{mapframe|62.316879|12.450456|zoom=6}} {{mapshape|type=geoline|wikidata=Q3511526|stroke=#000000|stroke-width=3|title= Södra Kungsleden}} === Sälen - Närfjällsstugan === ; Distance : 20.3 km ; Duration : 5½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 306 m The trail begins at Sälen Högfjellshotel and climbs gently through forest before reaching open highlands. It continues across moorland and rocky terrain. Östfjällstugan, located by the lake Östfjällstjärnen, appears early on. The stage ends at Närfjällsstugan, a rest cabin in the Norra Transtrandsfjällen Nature Reserve. * {{listing | type=buy | counter=n | name=Sälen Högfjellshotel | wikidata=Q134029667 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Östfjällstugan | lat=61.191981448 | long=13.121580831 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Närfjällsstugan | wikidata=Q134029672 }} === Närfjällsstugan - Björnholmsstugan === ; Distance : 24.4 km ; Duration : 7½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 696 m From Närfjällsstugan, the trail descends into the scenic Görälven valley and crosses a suspension bridge. It then climbs through moorland and sparse birch forest, offering wide, open views. Rest stops are available at the cabins in Granfjällsätern and Lillbäckstugan. The stage finishes at Björnholmsstugan, beautifully located in Fulufjället National Park. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Granfjällsätern | lat=61.270724976 | long=12.9721102184 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Lillbäckstugan | lat=61.303322343 | long=12.9390142730 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Björnholmsstugan | wikidata=Q134029674 }} === Björnholmsstugan - Tangsjöstugan === ; Distance : 22.1 km ; Duration : 6 h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 261 m Leaving Björnholmsstugan, the trail passes Tangådalsstugan and enters increasingly open terrain. It continues toward Tangsjöstugan, a remote cabin near the shores of Tangsjö Lake. Just before reaching the lake, hikers will find the smaller Lilla Tangsjöstugan, offering another place to rest in this quiet and scenic area. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Tangådalsstugan | lat=61.4839687869 | long=12.8464921551 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Lilla Tangsjöstugan | lat=61.551877107 | long=12.7403037226 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Tangsjöstugan | wikidata=Q134029677 }} === Tangsjöstugan - Rösjöstugorna === ; Distance : 9.4 km ; Duration : 2½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 195 m [[File: 20150819 155805-old-tjikko.jpg |thumb| Old Tjikko tree]] The trail from Tangsjöstugan leads towards Rösjöstugorna. A notable highlight along this stage is {{marker|type=see|name=Njupeskär|wikidata=Q37403}}, Sweden's highest waterfall, located near the cabins. The area surrounding the waterfall features well-marked paths and is part of a protected nature reserve. Beyond the waterfall, the trail follows the western edge of the Fulufjället plateau, passing near the protected site of {{marker|type=see|counter=n| name= Old Tjikko |wikidata= Q1301863}}. The exact tree is unmarked and off-trail to prevent damage. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Rösjöstugorna | wikidata=Q134029681 }} === Rösjöstugorna - Gördalen === ; Distance : 11.8 km ; Duration : 3½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 274 m The trail descends from Fulufjället to the valley village of {{marker|type=city|counter=n|name=Gördalen|wikidata=Q10512679}}, transitioning from alpine terrain to dense forest. Departing Rösjöstugorna, the trail heads northwest and descends through birch forest. A reindeer fence marks the exit from Fulufjället National Park. Below the park, the route follows the Fulan River valley. Gördalen offers options for camping, cabin rentals, and a restaurant. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Harrsjöstugan | lat=61.608815 | long=12.634395 }} === Gördalen - Id-Persätern === ; Distance : 17.6 km ; Duration : 4½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 152 m From Gördalen, the route heads north into Drevfjällen, a remote and rarely visited highland region. It starts along a short section of dirt road before turning onto a trail that climbs through pine and birch forest, passing Gröningshållan along the way. The stage ends at Id-Persätern. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Gröningshållan | lat=61.592899568 | long=12.4414265757 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Id-Persätern | wikidata=Q134029685 }} === Id-Persätern - Busjön === ; Distance : 16.9 km ; Duration : 4½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 185 m You follow the western border route through Drevfjällen. The trail from Id-Persätern heads northwest, staying close to the Norwegian border, often just a few kilometers east of it. Early on, you'll pass sites with evocative names. One is Trollkäringsboden (“Witch's Hut”), a small cabin located about 8 km from the start. Around 13 km in, you reach Röskåsen. From here, the trail begins to rise gently over a low ridge. Natural highlights include views toward Norway. On clear days, you may spot the rounded peaks of Femundsmarka National Park just across the border. The path then leads to Motståndskojan ("Resistance Hut"). This tiny log shelter, built in 1944, served as a hideout and contact point for Norwegian resistance fighters during [[World War II]]. From Motståndskojan, it is a short walk of about 1.5 km to Busjön, a small lake and the location of your destination, Busjön raststuga. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name= Trollkäringsboden | lat= 61.712766499 | long= 12.2471222185 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name= Röskåsen | lat= 61.7247402364| long= 12.1722302923 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Busjön raststuga | wikidata=Q134029733 }} === Busjön - Flötningen === ; Distance : 13 km ; Duration : 3½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 42 m Continuing north, the trail first follows the shore of Busjön lake. At about 6 km, you reach Gårdsjödalen, where a wind shelter sits amid grass clearings. As you continue, the terrain rises over a low ridge and then descends towards {{marker|type=city|counter=n|name=Flötningen|wikidata=Q10497240}}, a tiny settlement at the Norwegian border. The hamlet straddles the border, with Drevsjø on the Norwegian side. Despite its small size, it has a cross-border feel. Resupply here may be necessary, though prices are high and the next full store is several days away. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Gårdsjön | lat=61.811964 | long=12.197659 }} === Flötningen - Skärvagan === ; Distance : 8.1 km ; Duration : 2 h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 31 m This short stage is a gentle trek to Skärvagan wind shelter. The trail heads north from Flötningen, initially along a dirt track before narrowing to a path. Soon you cross into Härjedalen, which is part of Jämtland County, a milestone, as the Södra Kungsleden officially spans into a new region here. The landscape is rolling forest with occasional clearings. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Skärvagan wind shelter | wikidata=Q134029748 }} === Skärvagan - Guttudalskojan === ; Distance : 10.2 km ; Duration : 2½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 115 m After Skärvagan wind shelter, you'll travel into the Guttudalen valley. One natural landmark is the crossing of Guttudalsån, which you'll encounter about mid-stage. The stage ends at Guttudalskojan. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Guttudalskojan | wikidata=Q134029703 }} [[File:Sjöstugan i Grövelsjön, juli 2022 06.jpg|thumb|Sjöstugan in Grövelsjön]] === Guttudalskojan - Grövelsjön === ; Distance : 20.6 km ; Duration : 5½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 237 m The trail starts on a forest track, climbing through dense woodland before emerging onto open moorland with wide views of the surrounding mountains. Emergency shelters along the way include Valdalsbygget, Olåns emergency cabin, and Olåns wind shelter, where overnight stays are generally allowed. The route ends with a descent into the valley, arriving at the Grövelsjön Mountain Station at {{m|816}}, a base for several hiking trails. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Valdalsbygget emergency cabin | lat=62.048438646 | long=12.2360684355 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Olåns emergency cabin | lat=62.091721846 | long=12.2662059134 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Olåns wind shelter | lat=62.092940577 | long=12.2656106766 }} * {{listing | type=buy | counter=n | name=Grövelsjön Mountain Station | wikidata=Q111875686 }} === Grövelsjön - Storrödtjärn === ; Distance : 19.7 km ; Duration : 5½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 386 m [[File:Sodra-kungsleden-mot-havlingen.jpg|thumb|Lake Hävlingen.]] The trail heads northeast across the Långfjället plateau. After a short distance, it passes an information board about [[Carl Linnaeus tourism|Carl Linnaeus]]'s 1734 visit and a nearby falcon trapping site. Around 5 km in, the path reaches its highest point just south of Jakobshöjden, with clear views of Storvätteshogna {{m|1204}}. It then descends toward Hävlingen, passing Särsjöbäcken at about 8 km, where a viewpoint overlooks Töfsingdalen National Park and Lake Hävlingen. Continuing, the trail follows a moraine ridge between Hävlingen and Särsjön, with shelter available at Särsjöbäcken. Further on, Kronstugan offers an additional rest stop. The route passes through forest before ascending to the wind shelter at Slagusjön. The final stretch to Storrödtjärn Mountain Cabin in Långfjällets Nature Reserve is rocky and uneven. * {{listing | type = sleep | name = Särsjöbäcken | lat = 62.157801 | long = 12.373856 | directions = 250m off trail eastward | lastedit = 2025-05-29 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Kronstugan | lat=62.18207273 | long=12.4113345687 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Slagusjön | lat=62.2122633771 | long=12.4464826967 }} * {{listing | type=buy | counter=n | name=Storrödtjärn Mountain Cabin | wikidata=Q134029711 }} === Storrödtjärn - Rogen === ; Distance : 15.5 km ; Duration : 4½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 251 m The trail descends through open moraine terrain to a shelter near the southeastern tip of Lake Rogen. It continues across block fields and patches of birch and spruce forest, then follows the west side of Fisklöstjärnen and climbs along Tandsjövålen's southern slopes to the stage's high point. From there, it descends through sparse spruce forest to a bridge over the Tandån stream. At a junction north of Tandån, the trail turns onto a headland and ends at Rogen Mountain Cabin in Rogen Nature Reserve. This area is known for its unique glacial formations and sparse coniferous forests. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Rogen Mountain Cabin | wikidata=Q134029714 }} === Rogen - Skedbro === ; Distance : 17.9 km ; Duration : 4½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 16 m The route passes Broktjärnskojan, skirts the southern side of the {{m|1000}} Bustvålen summit before reaching a trail junction where it diverges southward toward Svukuriset in Norway and northward toward Skedbro. The final stretch to Skedbro Mountain Cabin includes boarded walkways over marshes and rough passages, but also heaths that make for easier walking. * {{listing|type=sleep|counter=n|name= Broktjärnskojan |lat= 62.4675739123| long= 12.2843168956}} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Skedbro Mountain Cabin | wikidata=Q134029717 }} === Skedbro - Fjällnäs === ; Distance : 28.8 km ; Duration : 8 h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 424 m The trail passes into the rocky terrain of Rogen Nature Reserve and climbs toward Storvigeln {{m|1561}}, the highest peak in the area. From the summit, there are expansive views of Jämtlandsfjällen and Femundsmarka. The route then descends through birch forest past Lake Bolagen, ending at the village of {{marker|type=city|counter=n|name=Fjällnäs|wikidata=Q10496055}}. === Fjällnäs - Fältjägare === ; Distance : 31.5 km ; Duration : 9 h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 648 m From Fjällnäs, the Southern Kungsleden Trail heads a road leading to {{marker | type=city | counter=n | name=Ramundberget | wikidata=Q10649543 }}, a notable ski resort offering various amenities. Beyond the intersection, Fjällnäs Spårtorg is available off trail. The journey continues to Fältjägare Mountain Cabin, which provides a rustic shelter for rest. On the way, the trail crosses the Ljusnan river, which runs through Ramundberget as well. There are two wind shelters here. The trail continues to Fältjägare Mountain Cabin. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Fjällnäs Spårtorg | lat=62.6008705440 | long=12.194365084 | directions=50m off trail }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Klinken wind shelter | lat=62.722684056 | long=12.3007885314 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Klinken wind shelter | lat=62.721921058 | long=12.3018794577 }} * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n | name=Fältjägare Mountain Cabin | wikidata=Q134029720 }} === Fältjägare - Helags === ; Distance : 12.2 km ; Duration : 3½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 317 m The trail begins with a short steep descent, then levels out across dry mountain heath. After a few kilometers, Helags Mountain Station becomes visible in the distance. A gentle 1-km ascent leads to a reindeer fence at the ridge crest, offering wide views over the Härjedalen mountains, including Predikstolen to the west. * {{listing | type=buy | counter=n | name=Helags Mountain Station | wikidata=Q10519430 }} === Helags - Sylarna === ; Distance: 19.6 km ; Duration : 5 h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 63 m [[File:Sylarna.JPG|thumb|Sylarna, as seen from the east]]The trail follows the Handölan River toward the Mieskentjakke shelter. From there, it splits into two routes. The more demanding option is the Ekorrpasset route, which climbs through a dramatic U-shaped pass with steep mountain walls and alpine terrain. The alternative is the shorter eastern route, which leads between Herrklumpen and Kläppen. Both paths eventually descend to the Sylälven River, where the trail concludes at Sylarnas Mountain Station. In certain areas, especially around Ekorrpasset, summer trail markings may be unclear, and hikers often follow winter trail indicators instead. * {{listing | type=sleep | counter=n| name=Mieskentjakke | lat=62.983689826 | long=12.3616491444 }} * {{listing | type = buy | lastedit = 2025-06-02 | counter = n | name = Sylarna Mountain Station | wikidata = Q10686801 }} === Sylarna - Blåhammaren === ; Distance : 18.1 km ; Duration : 5 h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 248 m [[File:Blåhammaren Fjällstation, Sweden, in the evening in winter.jpg|thumb|Blåhammaren Mountain station on a winter evening]] There are two additional emergency cabins along this stretch: Gamla Sylen and Enkälen raststuga. From Sylarna, the trail descends for about 3 km before turning west through rolling terrain with occasional rocky areas. It crosses open alpine landscapes with mountain views. About 4 km south of Blåhammaren, a river may require wading in high water. The stage ends with a steady climb to Blåhammarens Mountain Station, one of STF's highest. * {{listing||counter=n| name=Gamla Sylen|type=sleep|wikidata=Q134086240|content=Emergency cabin}} * {{listing||counter=n| name=Enkälen raststuga|type=sleep|wikidata=Q134086254|content=Emergency cabin}} * {{listing | type=buy | name=Blåhammarens Mountain Station | wikidata=Q10431723 }} === Blåhammaren - Storlien === ; Distance : 12.8 km ; Duration : 4 h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 573 m From Blåhammarens Mountain Station, the trail descends steadily for 6 km across open highlands with wide mountain views. It then enters subalpine birch forest with more varied terrain. This historic route once connected Storlien to the southern mountains. The trail is well-marked and maintained, but weather can change quickly. It ends at Storliens Fjällgård. * {{listing | type=buy | counter=n | name=Storliens Fjällgård (Storvallen) | wikidata=Q112014623 }} == Stay safe == * '''Weather:''' Conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for rain, wind, and freezing temperatures even in summer. * '''Navigation:''' Trail markings vary and fog is common in higher areas. Bring a detailed map, compass, and GPS or offline navigation app. * '''Water:''' Most streams are drinkable, but avoid those near cabins or grazing grounds. * '''Wildlife:''' You may encounter reindeer or moose. Keep your distance and don't disturb them. * '''Insects:''' In forested and marshy areas, mosquitoes and gnats can be intense. Use insect repellent and consider a head net. * '''Emergencies:''' Mobile reception is patchy. Solo hikers should carry a PLB or emergency beacon. Call 112 in case of emergency. * '''Planning:''' Let someone know your route and expected return. Be aware that rescue services may take time to reach remote areas. == Go next == From the northern end of Södra Kungsleden in Storlien, hikers can continue west into Norway via the border crossing near Blåhammaren to join the [[Nordlandsruta]], or follow the [[Jämtland Triangle]] loop. Eastward, the [[Nidaros Path]] (St. Olavsleden) pilgrimage trail leads toward Trondheim. At the southern terminus in Sälen, southbound hikers can pick up the [[Vasaloppet|Vasaloppsleden summer trail]], a historic trail heading toward Mora. For those seeking a longer wilderness journey, it is also possible to connect with the main [[Kungsleden]] route by traversing through the Ljungdalsfjällen region and continuing north via overlapping segments of the E1 European Long Distance Path. Or, continue north as part of the [[Green Ribbon]] adventure. {{usableitinerary}} {{PartOfItinerary|Europe itineraries}} 9qq4onqjkaqwz5axmw22t691tdomufu 0 154938 5090942 4564853 2025-07-10T16:15:02Z NetPro33 2329232 https://my-travelling.com/ 5090942 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Street workout Slovenija banner.jpg}} '''Physical fitness''' takes time to build up and maintain, but makes [https://my-travelling.com/ travel] easier. Running through an airport with a suitcase would be much easier for a traveller with good muscles and cardiac strength. This article will avoid attempts to crown the best form of exercise, except concluding that any exercise is better than none at all. ==Prepare== Make sure you have shoes your feet are used to. Travelling often involves much more walking than at home, and getting blisters or aching ankles can hinder you from enjoying the destination in full. This is especially important with hiking boots and if you intend to hike. While the social stigma of '''obesity''' is mostly restricted to modern times in the Western world, and weight alone tells little about a person's health, achieving or maintaining a healthy weight might make travelling easier. If you are overweight, then getting an inch or two off your waistline can produce noticeable improvements in your energy level and physical comfort while travelling, even if you think you need to lose much more. ==On the road== {{seealso|Flying and health|Tips for road trips}} Sitting for hours in a car or bus, or on a train or plane strains both body and mind. You should get out of the seat at least every two hours, ideally more often. ==At a destination== Especially if you do [[business travel]] with lots of sedentary work, try to find time for exercise. Many [[hotels]] have a gym. ==See also== * [[Spas]] * [[Sport]] {{outlinetopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Stay healthy}} czdi53zpnbrzal4dhkcnh5ihr1ovgdb 5090953 5090942 2025-07-10T16:35:12Z NetPro33 2329232 https://nextfitlife.com/ 5090953 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Street workout Slovenija banner.jpg}} '''[https://nextfitlife.com/ Physical fitness]''' takes time to build up and maintain, but makes [https://my-travelling.com/ travel] easier. Running through an airport with a suitcase would be much easier for a traveller with good muscles and cardiac strength. This article will avoid attempts to crown the best form of exercise, except concluding that any exercise is better than none at all. ==Prepare== Make sure you have shoes your feet are used to. Travelling often involves much more walking than at home, and getting blisters or aching ankles can hinder you from enjoying the destination in full. This is especially important with hiking boots and if you intend to hike. While the social stigma of '''obesity''' is mostly restricted to modern times in the Western world, and weight alone tells little about a person's health, achieving or maintaining a healthy weight might make travelling easier. If you are overweight, then getting an inch or two off your waistline can produce noticeable improvements in your energy level and physical comfort while travelling, even if you think you need to lose much more. ==On the road== {{seealso|Flying and health|Tips for road trips}} Sitting for hours in a car or bus, or on a train or plane strains both body and mind. You should get out of the seat at least every two hours, ideally more often. ==At a destination== Especially if you do [[business travel]] with lots of sedentary work, try to find time for exercise. Many [[hotels]] have a gym. ==See also== * [[Spas]] * [[Sport]] {{outlinetopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Stay healthy}} 262uzngcpx9jjpoa2ba930v9ze4xpbb 5090962 5090953 2025-07-10T16:47:20Z Ibaman 195012 rv per [[Don't tout]], [[External links]] and [[Goals and non-goals]] 5090962 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Street workout Slovenija banner.jpg}} '''Physical fitness''' takes time to build up and maintain, but makes travel easier. Running through an airport with a suitcase would be much easier for a traveller with good muscles and cardiac strength. This article will avoid attempts to crown the best form of exercise, except concluding that any exercise is better than none at all. ==Prepare== Make sure you have shoes your feet are used to. Travelling often involves much more walking than at home, and getting blisters or aching ankles can hinder you from enjoying the destination in full. This is especially important with hiking boots and if you intend to hike. While the social stigma of '''obesity''' is mostly restricted to modern times in the Western world, and weight alone tells little about a person's health, achieving or maintaining a healthy weight might make travelling easier. If you are overweight, then getting an inch or two off your waistline can produce noticeable improvements in your energy level and physical comfort while travelling, even if you think you need to lose much more. ==On the road== {{seealso|Flying and health|Tips for road trips}} Sitting for hours in a car or bus, or on a train or plane strains both body and mind. You should get out of the seat at least every two hours, ideally more often. ==At a destination== Especially if you do [[business travel]] with lots of sedentary work, try to find time for exercise. Many [[hotels]] have a gym. ==See also== * [[Spas]] * [[Sport]] {{outlinetopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Stay healthy}} l3crgqpgkiwva9uubppxbu92i2hcffd 0 156610 5091167 4468032 2025-07-11T02:58:34Z DaGizza 162256 /* See */ Updated listing for Raghunath Palace 5091167 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Ambikapur''' is the northern city of [[Chhattisgarh]]. It is also the headquarters of Surguja District and Surguja Division. ==Understand== It is one of the oldest cities in the state. From 1613 to 1948 when it acceded to the Indian Union, Ambikapur was the capital of the princely state of Surguja. In 2011, it had a population of 115,000 people. ==Get in== ===By train=== Ambikapur is connected to the Anuppur railway junction, a bordering town in Madhya Pradesh. Trains reach Ambikapur from [[Katni]], [[Satna]], [[Jabalpur]], [[Durg]], [[Bhopal]] and the state capital [[Raipur]]. More destinations, such as [[New Delhi]], can be reached from Anuppur railway junction. ===By car=== Ambikapur is well connected by road to the other major cities of Chhattisgarh such as Raipur, [[Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh)|Bilaspur]], Durg, [[Bhilai]], [[Korba]] and [[Raigarh]]. Daily bus services also run for [[Varanasi]] and [[Renukoot]] in Uttar Pradesh (170 km), Raipur (337 km) and [[Garhwa]] in Jharkhand (160 km). ===By bus=== Bus services from Anuppur to Ambikapur operate via Manendragarh and Surajpur. The bus journeys from Bilaspur and Anuppur take between five and six hours. ===By plane=== Ambikapur Airport is in Darima, 12 km (7.5 mi) south of Ambikapur. The air strip is mostly used by small aircraft and helicopters. It is the nearest airport with regular scheduled flights to Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh state. ==Get around== ==See== * {{see | name=Raghunath Palace | alt=Surguja Palace | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-06-12 | content=It is a white, two-storey palace. This palace is open for public only on the day of Dussehra every year. It's an old tradition that the heir of royal family of Surguja meets and greets the visitors on Dussehra and the festival is celebrated in a pompous manner. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Chhattisgarh}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|23.1355|83.1818}} 5620h8o8fmbkbycy8k0xtfaytqxd36n 0 160099 5090739 4006301 2025-07-10T12:24:11Z 2.68.182.57 /* Understand */ add 5090739 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Sturkö Wikivoyage Banner.JPG}} '''Blekinge archipelago''', ''Blekinge skärgård'', is in [[Blekinge]], [[Sweden]]. ==Understand== One of the lesser known Nordic archipelagoes, the Blekinge archipelago is usually warmer and less crowded than [[Stockholm archipelago]] and [[Bohuslän]]. The Blekinge archipelago is different from the archipelagoes along the Swedish east and west coasts as deciduous trees are growing there, especially solitaire and old oak tress that are windbiten and smaller than those on the mainland. The Blekinge coat of arms features an oak tree. ==Islands== * Senoren * Sturkö * Tjurkö * Aspö * Hasslö ==Get in== Many islands and peninsulae can be reached on road. ===By car=== Drive to Sturkö: Take the E22 Go through 1 roundabout Slight right at 738 Continue on Sturkövägen ===By boat=== Regular ferries depart daily from Karlskrona to Sturkö and Tjurkö. See also [[boating on the Baltic Sea]]. ==Get around== If you want to travel around Sturkö car is advised, but the island can be easily navigated with bicycles. ==See== * {{see | name=Runestones | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{see | name=Zoo | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{see | name=Nature Reserve | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== Stop by Sturkö's scenic windmill for light lunch, local artist gallery or a lovely coffee, with a view overlooking the bay of Bredavik. ==Drink== ==Sleep== Camping ==Connect== ==Stay safe== Take care when driving as certain roads become increasingly narrow. ==Go next== {{geo|56.1000|15.6667}} {{IsPartOf|Blekinge}} {{outlineruralarea}} ixsz1nguq2dctvk8xfoqh0glowsfsez 5090747 5090739 2025-07-10T12:28:58Z 2.68.182.57 /* Understand */ add 5090747 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Sturkö Wikivoyage Banner.JPG}} '''Blekinge archipelago''', ''Blekinge skärgård'', is in [[Blekinge]], [[Sweden]]. ==Understand== One of the lesser known Nordic archipelagoes, the Blekinge archipelago is usually warmer and less crowded than [[Stockholm archipelago]] and [[Bohuslän]]. The Blekinge archipelago is somewhat different from the archipelagoes along the Swedish east and west coasts as deciduous trees are growing there in large numbers, especially solitaire and old oak tress that are windbiten and smaller than those on the mainland. The Blekinge coat of arms features an oak tree. ==Islands== * Senoren * Sturkö * Tjurkö * Aspö * Hasslö ==Get in== Many islands and peninsulae can be reached on road. ===By car=== Drive to Sturkö: Take the E22 Go through 1 roundabout Slight right at 738 Continue on Sturkövägen ===By boat=== Regular ferries depart daily from Karlskrona to Sturkö and Tjurkö. See also [[boating on the Baltic Sea]]. ==Get around== If you want to travel around Sturkö car is advised, but the island can be easily navigated with bicycles. ==See== * {{see | name=Runestones | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{see | name=Zoo | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} * {{see | name=Nature Reserve | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content= }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== Stop by Sturkö's scenic windmill for light lunch, local artist gallery or a lovely coffee, with a view overlooking the bay of Bredavik. ==Drink== ==Sleep== Camping ==Connect== ==Stay safe== Take care when driving as certain roads become increasingly narrow. ==Go next== {{geo|56.1000|15.6667}} {{IsPartOf|Blekinge}} {{outlineruralarea}} p4sc4xh0ci14k03h0g6l8rr8i6z4rc5 0 161184 5091148 4466284 2025-07-11T02:08:51Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Understand */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091148 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|StoBoSa_houses_WikiVoyage_banner.jpg|pgname=La Trinidad}} {{Mapframe|16.4497504|120.5832767|zoom=13|height=380|width=480}} '''La Trinidad''' is a small town which serves as the capital of the province of [[Benguet]] which is part of the [[Cordillera Administrative Region]] of the [[Philippines]]. Tourists to the town mostly come from the neighboring city of [[Baguio]]. ==Understand== La Trinidad is the capital town of the province of Benguet and is north of the bigger and more popular tourist destination of [[Baguio]]. Efforts to promote tourism in Baguio often includes sites that are actually in the town of La Trinidad, especially the Betag Strawberry Farm making the town a detour destination for many tourist visiting Baguio. ==Get in== Tourists can enter La Trinidad via jeepney from the nearby city of Baguio in the south. ==Get around== Jeepneys serve passengers in La Trinidad except in most remote areas of the town. Motorized tricycles is another mode of public transportation used in the town. ==See== ===Sites=== * {{see | name=Colors of StoBoSa | alt=StoBoSa Hillside Homes Artwork | url= | email= | address=Stonehill, Botiwtiw, and Sadjap Sitios in Barangay Balili. | lat=16.434389 | long=120.597556 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Colors of StoBoSa | image=StoBoSa houses.jpg | wikidata=Q48814487 | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content=Inspired by the favela paintings in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, it is a community artwork formed by paintwork of about two hundred houses in the sitios of Stonehill, Botiwtiw, and Sadjap. It was conceptualized by local artist troupe, Tam-awan Artist Village and was painted by residents of the area as well as volunteers. }} * {{see | name=Bell Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barangay Balili | lat=16.431449 | long=120.59849 | directions= | phone=+63 74 422-1086 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikipedia=Bell Church (temple) | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content=A Chinese temple situated in Barangay Balili in La Trinidad. It features Chinese architecture and is a known place of worship for Chinese residents and tourists. It is located near the town's boundary with Baguio. }} ===Recurring events=== * {{see | name=La Trinidad Strawberry Festival | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content=An annual festival dedicated to the town's strawberry industry celebrated sometime between February and March. }} ==Do== [[File:La Trinidad strawberry fields.JPG|thumb|La Trinidad Strawberry Farms]] * {{do | name=La Trinidad Strawberry Farm | alt= | url= | email= | address=Betag | lat=16.455317 | long=120.5852079 | directions= | phone=+63 74 422-6733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=La Trinidad strawberry fields.JPG | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content=Strawberry-picking may be done at the 20 hectare-large strawberry farm in La Trinidad which is a popular site for domestic tourists. The site is owned by the Benguet State University. }} * {{do | name=Benguet State University | alt= | url=http://www.bsu.edu.ph/ | email= | address=Barangay Balili | lat=16.453745 | long=120.5881333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content=Educational tours are available for tourists at the regional agricultural university. Tourists can learn about organic farming through tours in the university's demonstration farms and gardens as well as shop for souvenirs }} * {{do | name=The Master's Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barangay Puguis | lat=16.447359 | long=120.5743368 | directions= | phone=+63 74 422-5937 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content=A {{convert|3000|sqm|sqft|sp=us}} where one can learn about organic farming. The facility is the first training center established in the region dedicated to organic farming. }} ==Buy== One can buy strawberry-based products at the La Trinidad Strawberry Farm in Betag as well as souvenirs at the Benguet State University. Other places where tourist could purchase goods are: * {{buy | name=La Trinidad Trading Post | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.449651 | long=120.5887448 | directions= | phone=+63 74 422-2061, +63 74 422-5618 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content=The biggest marketplace for highland vegetables in the country. Tourists may purchase vegetable products at the La Trinidad Trading Post at a cheaper price at this marketplace. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Calajo | alt= | url= | email= | address=Halsema Highway | lat=16.442598 | long=120.592167 | directions= | phone=+63 74 422-1219 | tollfree= | hours=9AM–7PM | price= | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content=Calajo is a restaurant which primarily serves local Benguet cuisine. "Calajo" means "Welcome" in the Ibaloi language. }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Tribuhaus Backpackers Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shilan-Beckel Road | lat=16.434112 | long=120.6232 | directions= | phone=+63 74 424-3706 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price={{PHP|300}} PAX a day | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Strawberry Valley Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Halsema Highway | lat=16.454726 | long=120.5849518 | directions= | phone=+63 74 422-0822 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=BSU–Gladiola Center | alt= | url=http://www.bsu.edu.ph | email= | address=Halsema Highway | lat=16.452463 | long=120.589648 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin=1PM onwards | checkout=8AM–noon | price={{PHP|600}} | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content=Lodging facility managed by the Benguet State University. }} ==Stay healthy== * {{listing | name=Benguet General Hospital | alt= | url=http://www.benguet.gov.ph/index.php/product-services/economic-eterprise/benguet-general-hospital | email=beghadmin@benguet.gov.ph | address=Km.5 Halsema Highway, Barangay Pico | lat=16.450783 | long=120.5885008 | directions= | phone=+63 74 422-4722 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-05 | content=A government-run tertiary hospital serving the whole province of Benguet. }} ==Go next== *[[Baguio]] {{routebox | placename=La Trinidad | image1=N204 (Philippines).svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=S | majorl1=[[Baguio]] | minorl1= | directionr1=N | majorr1=[[Bontoc]] | minorr1=[[Atok]] | link1= | caption1= }} {{isPartOf|Benguet}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|16.46|120.59}} 06rmozzuuaizuqb7ayjhajor0izptn2 0 164111 5091141 5029728 2025-07-11T01:56:11Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* North Yungas */ typo 5091141 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Yungas road WV banner.jpg}} The '''Yungas Road''' is in the [[La_Paz_(department,_Bolivia)|La Paz department]] of [[Bolivia]]. If you've ever heard of "Death Road" or "The most dangerous road in the world", this is where it is! ==Cities and towns== ===North Yungas=== [[File:Coroico_town.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Coroico]] * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Coroico]]|lat=-16.18867|long=-67.72755|wikidata=Q1026263}} &ndash; The most popular town around with many accommodation options. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Yolosita]]|lat=-16.19350|long=-67.74249}} &ndash; A little village and '''transport hub''' of the region, for onwards travel into the Tropical Lowlands ([[Santa Cruz (department, Bolivia)|Santa Cruz]], [[Beni (Bolivia)|Beni]], [[Pando]]) * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Yolosa]]|lat=-16.23333|long=-67.73988|wikidata=Q20828976}} &ndash; A village at the end of North Yungas Road with showers, other amenities for travellers and a few accommodation options. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[San Juan de la Miel]]|lat=-16.2665|long=-67.8000}} &ndash; A village offering adventure tours in the Yungas Road region. * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Villa Ascensión]]|lat=|long=}} ===South Yungas=== * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Chulumani]]|wikidata=Q1766619}} &ndash; For a safer and more relaxed trip to Yungas, check out this village at the eastern side of the (South) Yungas Road. A great alternative to Coroico and convenient if you connect from/to [[Quime]] or even [[Cochabamba]] (very far and slow). * {{marker|type=city|name=[[Yanacachi]]|wikidata=Q650769}} &ndash; A stopover/hub along the South Yungas Road. The Takesi Inca Trail from La Paz leads here. ==Understand== The Yungas Road is better known by the name of ''Ruta de la Muerte'' or ''Death Road'' indicating the many deaths and accidents that happened here. Nowadays, a highway has replaced the once so dangerous road. And what is left is being exploited for marketing purposes by mountain bike tour companies in La Paz. Nevertheless, the region is a hidden gem and beside the road it offers many hiking and leisure opportunities worth staying here a couple of days. ===History=== Built by Paraguayan prisoners during the Chaco war in 1930. There was an average of 100 motor fatalities a year, when the road was the main corridor. A world record, mostly due to the Bolivian driving style than to the road itself. Though, in the ten years that mountain biking companies have been biking down the road, there have only been 12 biking fatalities). ===Landscape=== ===Flora and fauna=== ===Climate=== ==Get in== {{mapframe}} ===By bus=== Frequent buses from the [[La_Paz#By_bus|Terminal Provincial Minasa Yungas]] in La Paz will go by and stop in Yolosita (Bs. 20). From there you can hike up to Coroico, there is a direct trail, or take a minibus for Bs. 5. There are also a few direct connections to Coroico. Regular bus travel between Yolosita and Yucumo ([[Beni (Bolivia)|Beni]] department), especially in the evening: Bs. 40-50, 8-10 hr. ===By bicycle=== Usually, if you book a tour, this is the way you come in. Nevertheless, you can also rent a proper bicycle in La Paz, let the bicycle be carried to the to pass at 5,000 m or the {{marker|type=go|name=beginning of the North Yungas Road|lat=-16.28742|long=-67.83061}} and cycle down into the valley. ===On foot=== Likewise, getting dropped off at the beginning of North Yungas Road (Bs. 10-15 by bus), you can hike down into the valley. Or you get dropped of even earlier and do the [[El Choro Trek]]. Also, see [[#Hiking|below]] for all hiking options. You might consider starting your trek near La Paz, but it is probably better to do that in a group of 3 or more. ==Fees and permits== There are several toll stations along the North Yungas Road relevant for cyclists, probably due to the fact that it is a popular destination for MTB tours: * {{marker|type=buy|name=North Yungas Road (top)|lat=-16.2713949|long=-67.7880854}} &ndash; Bs. 25 once, either top or bottom * {{marker|type=buy|name=North Yungas Road (bottom)|lat=-16.209427|long=-67.754891}} &ndash; Bs. 25 once, either top or bottom * {{marker|type=buy|name=North Yungas Road - Yolosita|lat=-16.19950|long=-67.74593}} &ndash; Bs. 3, when going directly to Yolosita, just a few km before Yolosita * Also, there is a toll booth at the entrance of Coroico, but it probably only applies to cars. ==Get around== ===On foot and navigation=== There region consists of many interesting hiking and cycling trails. For reliable trails and [[GPS navigation]], consult [https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=12/-16.2429/-67.8104 OpenStreetMap], which is used by many mobile Apps like [https://osmand.net/ OsmAnd] or [https://en.mapy.cz/ Mapy.cz]. Or just download the according GPX or KML files through [https://hiking.waymarkedtrails.org/ Waymarked Trails] for such trails on OpenStreetMap. (Note, you just need to change the OpenStreetMap relation ID to download the GPX or KML files through the same link.) ==See== [[File:3ra-cascada-la-jalancha(2).jpg|thumb|250px|right|La Jalancha]] * {{see | name=Tres Cascadas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-16.2125 | long=-67.7015 | directions=the trail starts left of the {{marker|type=around|name=Capilla Calvario|lat=-16.19318|long=-67.72229}} (church) on the way to Uchumachi from Coroico | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-12 | content=Three picturesque waterfalls about 10 km away from Coroico, one way. This is a full day hike. Especially the third waterfall, ''La Jalancha'', looks impressive. }} * {{see | name=Tocaña | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tocaña-Bolivia-los-Yungas/609515629164474 | email= | address= | lat=-16.16509 | long=-67.73628 | directions=organised by tour or taxi, but it is also just a full day hike away (incl. return) | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-06-12 | content=A black Afroboliviana community with its specific music and dresses. [https://kwekudee-tripdownmemorylane.blogspot.com/2012/12/african-descendants-in-bolivia-afro.html Read] on their history and pay them a visit. }} * {{see | name=Castillo del Loro | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=around 64&nbsp;km from La Paz up the South Yungas Road, or 18 km west from Yanacachi | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Closed | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-02-21 | content=Here you will find a surprise: a European castle, built in the 1930s, emerges in the middle of the coca and flower growing region. It's a treat because the people who run the castle/hotel have built many narrow roads for hiking through mountains and mountain cascades. Much calmer and relaxing than Coroico. The hotel is called the ''Hotel y Parque Ecológico el Castillo del Loro''. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=El Vagante | alt= | url=http://www.elvagante.com | email= | address=Office: Plaza, Coroico | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+591 75274751 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=US$40-60 | lastedit=2018-05-15 | content=30 minutes away from Coroico there is this community project that offers '''canyoning and trekking'''. Canyoning involves rappelling down 8 natural waterfalls with pure, fresh, crystal clear water in the middle of the Yungas Jungle. You can also enjoy trekking through the Yungas tropics appreciating nature and fauna, breathing healthy full of oxygen air. [https://www.facebook.com/elvagante.99/ '''<span style="color:#3b5998">FB</span>''']. }} * {{do | name=Pozas del Vagante | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-16.1793665 | long=-67.6879583 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-12 | content=River swimming. }} * {{do | name=Laguna Cedromayo | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-16.22975 | long=-67.75008 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Bs. 5 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-05-15 | content=A nice swimming pool next to a waterfall, in case it gets really hot. }} * {{do | name=Zip Lining (Station) | alt=Zzip the Flying Fox | url= | email= | address=Yolosa | lat=-16.22907 | long=-67.73983 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 09:00-11:00, 13:00-17:00 | price=Tour providers charge Bs. 255, but on site it will be cheaper, bargain (!) | lastedit=2018-05-11 | content=A 1,500-m zipline developed by the community in 2010. It flies at speeds of up to 85 km/h. Besides this station there is another {{marker|type=do|name=higher one|lat=-16.2281131|long=-67.7437838}} across the river. Maybe you can go from this one the whole way. Check it out in case you go by with the bicycle. }} * {{do | name=The "Vertical Route" Circuit | alt=Iron Road / Via Ferrata | url=http://www.periodicolaregion.com/v2/index.php/turismo/119-5-actividades-extremas-%C2%A1imperdibles.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Bs. 500-1,000 for 2 people. Search for "Vertical Route" to find tour operators, or if you prefer more authentic, just head to the local community offering the adventures | lastedit=2018-06-26 | content=The communities San Juan de la Miel and Villa Ascensión offer this commercial 6-hr adventure tour along 5 different "iron activities": abseiling, iron steps, a hanging bridge of 30 m, a 100-m zip line, and a rope swing. The "road" is both, vertical and horizontal, equipped with nails, dams, staples, chains, handrails, suspension bridges and zip lines. They allow safe access to otherwise difficult areas. }} ===Hiking=== [[File:Old_Road_(274620646).jpg|thumb|350px|right|Hiking in overwhelming surroundings]] * {{do | name=Hike the Yungas North Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=take an early bus from the [[La Paz#Get in|Terminal Provincial Minasa Yungas]] to the {{marker|type=go|name=upper starting point|lat=-16.28891|long=-67.82726}}, about 1½ hr; the bus should be around Bs. 15 if you make clear that you want to get off there and not in Yolosita | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-05-13 | content=It is also possible to hike down the North Yungas Road to Cocoico within a day. It is 30 km, but downhill all the time. Or hike up, if you feel like it (2000 m in altitude!), and take any bus from the top end back to La Paz. }} * Two interesting '''two- or three-day hikes''' go from La Cumbre (the highest point between La Paz and Coroico, 4,700 m) to Coroico (1,700 m). :* {{do | name=[[El Choro Trek]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=you can start {{marker|type=go|name=at 4,900 m|lat=-16.3215|long=-68.0544}} for the 3-day trail, or, if you start at {{marker|type=go|name=3,400 m|lat=-16.29535|long=-67.89235}} (called the ''Sillutinkara Inca Trail''), you will save one day; any bus from the [[La Paz#Get in|Terminal Provincial Minasa Yungas]] goes by either of the two starting points | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Bus: Bs. 10-15 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-05-13 | content=The most famous is the old Inca Road trek, which was the most important connection between the Yungas and La Paz until the 1930s. This is a beautiful and exciting track that runs northwest of the highway (La Paz-Yolosita) and the North Yungas Road through local villages and down to Yolosita. }} :* {{do | name=Eco-vía | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-26 | content=This is a road carved in the mountains, with the idea of having a train connection. It never did function, but as a train needs relatively flat terrain, it's a much more accessible option for people not used to walking. It can be done in two or three days, but come well prepared: the first two days you will not encounter any villages.<br />There is little information available on this trail here. So, you best off heading to a "tourist information" in Coroico and get more details. They will probably tell about where the trail starts and ends. Then consult [https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=13/-16.2111/-67.7529 OpenStreetMap] to find the actual trail and rest of details. }} * '''[https://www.openstreetmap.org/relation/3313887#map=12/-16.4605/-67.8116 Takesi Inca Trail]''' &ndash; A demanding and exciting 40 km 2-3 days mountain trail that you start in La Paz and end in Yanacachi along the South Yungas Road, or vice versa. More information on the stages of the trail, can be found [http://www.lapazlife.com/the-takesi-trail/ here]. * There is some good '''hiking''' in the surrounding of Coroico. There are several one day hikes, which include going for a swim in wild and clear rivers, seeing local agriculture (coca, banana, coffee, citrus fruits), old Casas de Hacienda (the houses of the former landowners), virgin forests and Afro-Bolivian communities. Checkout the destinations under [[#See]]. ===Mountain biking=== [[File:Bolivia - The Worlds Most Dangerous Road.jpg|thumb|250px|right|North Yungas Road]] It's a 64&nbsp;km long scenic ride downhill. Although it's a narrow, winding road with big drops on the side, going down by bike is probably the safest way to get to [[Coroico]]. You'll enjoy the day watching waterfalls and appreciating beautiful natural landscapes. * {{do | name=Mountain Biking (self guided) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Bs. 50-100 per day per mountain bike | lastedit=2018-05-11 | content=You can easily organise a cycling trip yourself. Try renting a bicycle with one of the tour companies that also offer tours. Take a bus from [[La_Paz#By_bus|Terminal Provincial Minasa Yungas]] (or a private van from where you prefer) to {{marker|type=go|name=La Cumbra|lat=-16.33984|long=-68.03844}} at 4,650 m and go from there, or go directly to the {{marker|type=go|name=beginning of the North Yungas Road|lat=-16.2890|long=-67.8273}}, from where it is only 30 km, which may be preferred if the weather at La Cumbra is bad&mdash;with mist you will not be able to take pictures anyhow. Buses usually have enough space in their luggage compartment or on the roof. You can stay in the region or head back directly to La Paz with the next bus from Yolosita.<br />The "Death Road" itself is not difficult, it is just that when accidents happened, cars were often too fast or inattentive. This can be better controlled by bicycle. However, have someone more conservative leading your group, just in case. Since it is downhill all the time, the 60 km are possible in 3-5 hr, depending on the amount of stops and the weather. Front suspension is best, but full suspension is not needed&mdash;this is a gravel road used by cars before, it is not an off-road trail. Some tour companies offer their clients really bad and old bicycles, proofing the easiness of the road. Nevertheless, get a good bicycle&mdash;the most important thing are your breaks.<br />There is a {{marker|type=go|name=check point|lat=-16.31084|long=-67.90979}} along the highway, which is only open between 07:00&mdash;15:00. The first halt from La Cumbra is a sealed road. The North Yungas Road is gravel. Doing the trip on you won is more authentic, you do not have to start too early, it is cheaper, and you will have more time for yourself and pictures. In addition, it gives you the chance to visit a neglected but very versatile region. }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Mountain Biking Tour | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Bs. 500-600 when booked online. However, it can easily be bargained down to Bs. 300 or more&mdash;just drop them a message a day before you want to leave, asking for availability for the next day and mentioning your price. These tours are basically never full, but take as many people as possible. Find out on their website which types of bicycles they have and get a good one, even though it is not really necessary. Searching for "Death Road" on Google or Tripadvisor, you will find many providers, and from there their Facebook page or website. If you send 6 or 7 of them an email or WhatsApp, you will certainly be lucky | lastedit=2018-05-11 | content=The North Yungas Road is a popular destination for mountain biking tours from La Paz. There are many providers in La Paz that offer the tour. Unfortunately, they have kind of a quasi monopole, because most people will only contact one company and go with them. Hence, their prices are way too high.<br />Generally, bicycles and people are brought from La Paz into the region. You will ride a bike in the new paved road about a half hour, then enter the most dangerous road in the world, North Yungas Road (a.k.a. '''Death Road'''). All together 60 km (3-6 hr), and at the end you are having buffet lunch, showers and a swimming pool in Yolosa. You can of course also stay in the region, but general the tour providers are a little reluctant to take too much luggage. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * Many shops in this region, e.g. in Yolosita, sell in palm leaf wrapped '''chocolate''' bars at Bs. 10/5 (large/small, but small is the better deal) made out of 100% chocolate without any sugar. So, if you ever wondered what pure chocolate taste like, this is your chance. The chocolate bars are actually intended for cooking&mdash;it does not mean however that you will find anything different offered in this region. Nevertheless, it can be good in combination with coffee or hot milk. ==Drink== ==Sleep== You will find most sleep options in [[Coroico#Sleep|Coroico]]. However, there are remote accommodations all over this region, ranging from luxurious to typical Bolivian. Checkout Google Maps and contact them directly via WhatsApp. ===Camping=== Along the trails there should be enough options to camp, just make sure it is not close to a village or unintentional in someone's backyard. Check out the marked camp site on [https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=16/-16.2220/-67.6922 OpenStreetMap]. Often however, you will also find options provided by the people of the village to put up a tent. * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Campamento Minero La Chojlla | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-16.4070860 | long=-67.7755834 | directions=near Yanacachi along the South Yungas Road | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-02-21 | content=Apparently a great place for camping near an interesting mine for a visit. }} ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Villa Bella | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-16.24487 | long=-67.73644 | directions=1 km south of Yolosa | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Bs. 60-100 pp | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-05-13 | content=Has cabanas and a large family apartment available }} * {{sleep | name=El Jiri Ecolodge | alt= | url= | email=info@jiribolivia.com | address=Cotapata National Park, Coroico | lat=-16.190208 | long=-67.760858 | directions=near Charobamba; use the {{marker|type=go|name=bridge|lat=-16.19757|long=-67.75944}} to cross the river south. | phone=+591 70677115 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2018-05-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Urpuma Ecolodge | alt= | url=https://www.bolivia.com/noticias/autonoticias/DetalleNoticia36565.asp | email= | address=El Chairo | lat= -16.203388 | long=-67.836571 | directions= | phone=+591 71951006, +591 71218624 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-05-13 | content=A project of the Asociación Comunitaria de Ecoturismo Urpuma beneficing 25 families in this region. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Villa Verde | alt= | url=http://www.boliviaentusmanos.com/amarillas/businesscard/complejo-turistico-villa-verde.html | email=reservas.hotelvillaverde@gmail.com | address= | lat=-16.156258 | long=-67.718134 | directions=6.5 km north/further from Yolosita | phone=+591 22261186, +591 73219490, +591 67174444 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2018-05-13 | content= }} ==Cope== * Beware of the sand flies in and around Coroico. Their bites go unnoticed until hours later when they become extremely itchy. Wear long trousers to prevent being bitten. ==Go next== If you thought the commercialised ''Death Road'' was crazy, enjoy the ride when heading further into the [[Beni_(Bolivia)|Beni department]]: * [[Rurrenabaque]] &ndash; There are many buses that go there from Yolosita, e.g. one at 14:00. You can buy your ticket (at least Bs. 110) in Coroico at one of the travel agency (On the day of departure, they will give you the description of the bus.), but it will certainly be overpriced. You can also just catch one of the buses down in Yolosita&mdash;they usually always have space. Ask around in Yolosita when the buses pass through. The journey takes about 13-14 hr in the dry season. * [[Trinidad (Bolivia)|Trinidad]] &ndash; There are 3 direct buses or so to Trinidad, going by San Ignacio de Moxos. They leave between 18:00 and 00:00. It is probably better to just take the next best bus to Yucumo (8-10 hr, Bs. 50, but they might also take you for Bs. 40) and transfer there. The road conditions are awful and it can take up to 24 hr to get to Trinidad, assuming there are no road blocks. Otherwise, there should be 24/7 (hourly) transport options back to La Paz along the North Yungas Road. {{extraregion}} {{IsPartOf|La_Paz_(department,_Bolivia)}} {{geo|-16.2612|-67.7365|zoom=12}} bw0kvmu2qxv8nbfvawxvm7ydsqqnmuh 0 165645 5091147 5063254 2025-07-11T02:07:19Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Churches */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091147 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Brussels banner.jpg|pgname=Centre|unesco=yes}} The '''Centre''' is the historic centre of [[Brussels]], including the world's most beautiful town square, the '''Grand-Place''' which is listed as {{UNESCO}}. ==Get in== ==See== {{Mapframe|50.84667|4.35252|zoom=15}} {{mapshapes|Q506298}}<!--metro--> {{Mapshapes|Q117965|stroke-width=2}} <!-- Brussels S-train --> [[File:Grote Markt (9379072012).jpg|thumb|right|Grand-Place/Grote Markt, Brussels]] * {{see | name=Grand-Place | alt=Grote Markt | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.84667 | long=4.35241 | directions={{rint|be|rail}} ''Central Station'', {{rint|brussels|metro}} {{rint|brussels|1}}{{rint|brussels|5}} Central Station or ''De Brouckère'' | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | wikipedia=Grand Place | image=Grand place brussels WQ3.jpg | wikidata=Q215429 | lastedit=2017-07-23 | content=Surrounded by the city tower and a range of beautiful 300-year-old buildings. In the evening, lit by bright illumination, it is simply ravishing. Some evenings a music and light show is provided with the buildings serving as a canvas. Have a "gaufre de Liège-Luikse wafel" here (Belgian waffle with caramelized sugar) — the best ones are available from the little shops off the northeast corner of the Grand-Place. It is a {{UNESCO}}. }} [[File:Brussels, townhall oeg2043-00090 foto3 2015-06-07 08.38.jpg|thumb|right|The [[Brussels/Centre#Q1255327|city hall]] at the [[Brussels/Centre#Q215429|Grand-Place]], a {{UNESCO}}]] :* {{see | name=City Hall | alt=Hôtel de Ville/Stadhuis | url= | email= | address=Grand-Place/Grote Markt | lat=50.84651 | long=4.35171 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-10-14 |wikipedia=Brussels Town Hall |image=2007 07 Belgium Brussels 03.JPG |wikidata=Q1255327 | content=The oldest part of the present Town Hall is its east wing (to the right when facing the front). This wing, together with a shorter belfry, was built and completed in 1420 under direction of Jacob van Thienen. Initially, future expansion of the building was not foreseen, however, the admission of the craft guilds into the traditionally patrician city government apparently spurred interest in providing more room the building. As a result, a second, somewhat longer wing was built on to the existing structure, with Charles the Bold laying its first stone in 1444. This ''left'' wing was built by Guillaume de Voghel who in 1452 also built the Magna Aula at the Coudenberg. The facade is decorated with numerous statues representing nobles, saints, and allegorical figures. The present sculptures are reproductions; the originals have been moved to the city museum. The 96-meter tall tower in Brabantine Gothic style emerged from the plans of Jan van Ruysbroek, the court architect of Philip the Good. By 1454 this tower replacing the older belfry was completed. Above the roof of the Town Hall, the square tower body narrows to a lavishly pinnacled octagonal openwork. Atop the spire stands a 5-meter tall gilt metal statue of the archangel Michael, patron saint of Brussels, slaying a dragon or devil. The tower, its front archway and the main building facade are conspicuously off centre relative to one another. According to legend, the architect upon discovering this "error" leaped to his death from the tower. More likely, the asymmetry of the Town Hall was an accepted consequence of the scattered construction history and space constraints. After the bombardment of Brussels in 1695 by a [[France|French]] army under the Duke of Villeroi, the resulting fire completely gutted the Town Hall, destroying the archives and the art collections. The interior was soon rebuilt, and the addition of two rear wings transformed the L-shaped building into its present configuration: a quadrilateral with an inner courtyard completed by Corneille Van Nerven in 1712. The Gothic interior was revised by Victor Jamar in 1868 in the style of his mentor Viollet-le-Duc. The halls have been replenished with tapestries, paintings, and sculptures, largely representing subjects of importance in local and regional history. The Town Hall accommodated not only the municipal authorities of the city, but until 1795 also the States of Brabant. In 1830, a provisional government assembled here during the attempt of the Third French Revolution which provoked the separation of the Southern Netherlands from the [[Netherlands|Northern Netherlands]], resulting in the formation of Belgium as is known now. At the start of [[World War I]], as refugees flooded Brussels, Town Hall served as a makeshift hospital. On 20 August 1914, the occupying German army arrived at the Grand-Place and hoisted a German flag at the left side of the Town Hall. The Town Hall has been designated a historic monument since 9 March 1936. }} :* {{see | name=King's House | alt=Maison du Roi/Broodhuis | url= | email= | address=Grand-Place/Grote Markt | lat=50.84696 | long=4.35282 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-17:00 | price=8€, free on the first Sunday of the month | wikipedia=nl:Broodhuis | image=(Belgium) Brussels City Museum Aug 2009.jpg | wikidata=Q14505682 | lastedit=2018-06-12 | content=A 19th-century building hosting the Brussels City Museum, with an extensive collection items of the city's history. The Dutch name ''Broodhuis'' (literally ''bread house'') dates from the 13th century, when a wooden hut existed on the Grand-Place where bakers sold their bread. It was replaced by a stone building in 1405, but at the beginning of the 15th century it was gradually abandoned when bakers started selling their wares door to door. The vacant building was then occupied by the Duke of Brabant, turning it into an administrative centre, and renaming it to Duke's House ('''s Hertogenhuys''). It later became the property of emperor Charles V, but its condition soon deteriorated due to lack of maintenance, and was razed to the ground at orders of the emperor. This architect Antoon II Keldermans was commissioned to design a new building in Gothic style, the plans finished in 1514 and construction was carried uit from 1515 to 1536. After Keldermans' death, subsequent architects finished the building. Under [[Spain|Spanish]] reign, queen Isabella of Spain ordered the renovation of the facade in 1625 and placed it under protection of the Holy Mary foundation. During [[French]] bombardments in 1695, the building was damaged to such an extent that extensive maintenance was required, but due to lacking finances this was limited to the minimal efforts to prevent collapse. Only in 1767 a second renovation was carried out. Taken over by the city of Brussels in the 1860, the house was renamed ''House of the People'' (''Volkshuis''), but fell prey to decay a second time and razed at the end of the 19th century, then reconstructed in neo-Gothic style, which was very popular at the time. It was one of the achievements of major Carl Buls, known for his progressive ideas, and Jules Anspach. Construction responsibilities were assigned to architect Pierre-Victor Jamaer, who constructed the building based on the original plans of Antoon Keldermans. Construction started in 1873 and took over 20 years and cost 2 million francs, which was a fortune at the time. It became the best example of neo-Gothic style in Belgium, and assigned the function of city museum in 1887. From 1895 to 1895, the belfry's carillon featured 49 bells, which were planned to be extended by another 6 bells in 1895, and moved to the City Hall's belfry. However, this was never carried out because of the failing mechanism of the carrillon, and it was eventually removed from the Belfry completely in 1898. The belfry has remained empty ever since. Since 1998 the King's House is a {{UNESCO}}. It hosts many statues that used to decorate the City Hall and were removed and replaced with replicas to preserve the originals. Over 500 costumes of Manneken Pis are stored in the basement of the King's House, and a smaller selection is on display. }} :* {{see | name=Everard t'Serclaes monument | alt= | url= | email= | address=Grand-Place/Grote Markt | lat=50.84634 | long=4.35233 | directions=''De Sterre'' gallery, south-west of the Grand-Place | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price= | wikipedia=Everard t'Serclaes | image=Everard t'Serclaes 01.JPG | wikidata=Q898342 | lastedit=2018-06-12 | content=Sculpture from Brussels artist Julien Dillens, commemorating Everard t'Serclaes (1320-1388). t'Serclaes was a Brussels citizen who gained fame with his recovery of the city from the [[Ghent|Flemings]]. After the death of John III of Brabant in 1355, his daughter Joanna and her busband Wenceslaus succeeded him as the rules of the duchy. The count of Flanders, Louis de Male, disputed the legitimacy of the succession however, and seized the city after defeating the [[Flemish Brabant|Brabantian]] defenders at Scheute. Louis' legions didn't feel much for a long standing occupation of the city, and his garrison was thinly manned. This gave t'Serclaes the chance to gather a group of 66 partisans and scale the city walls in the night of 24 October 1356. They managed to reach the Grand-Place and lowered the Flemish flag from the town hall, replacing it with the Brabantian flag. When Brussels citizens saw the Brabantian flag restored in the morning, they revolted against Louis' occupying forces and drove them out of the city, after 2 weeks of occupation. t'Serclaes became a hero for liberating the city, and after re-entry of Joanna, he was made alderman for 5 terms. His luck didn't last however, and on 26 March 1388 he was ambushed by bandits on his way from [[Lennik]] to Brussels, who cut off a foot and ripped out his tongue. The mutilated t'Serclaes was found by civil servants shortly afterwards and carried to Brussels on a cart, where he died 5 days later from his injuries. The sculpture of t'Serclaes, erected in 1902, is under the gallery of ''De Sterre'', where t'Serclaes arrived on the cart and tried to talk to Joanna but couldn't make himself understandable without his tongue. The caption of the sculpture of dying t'Serclaes is ''Eberhardo t'Serclaes Patriae Liberatori'' (Eberhardo t'Serclaes, liberator of his city) and ''Pro aris et focis'' (For home and hearth). During the interbellum, a salesman of the Sunday market spread the rumor that rubbing the right arm of the sculpture would bring luck, whoever rubbed it would return to Brussels. The sculpture has been intensively rubbed by locals and tourists since, and the original was moved to the town hall after renovation in 2011. The current sculpture is a messing copy. }} * {{see | name=Bruxella 1238 | alt= | url=http://www.brusselscitymuseum.brussels/en/discover/museum/bruxella-1238 | email=musea@brucity.be | address=Beursstraat | lat=50.84829 | long=4.35039 | directions={{rint|metro}}{{rint|tram}} {{rint|brussels|1}}{{rint|brussels|3}}{{rint|brussels|4}}{{rint|brussels|5}} stations ''Beurs'' or ''De Brouckère'' | phone=+32 2 279 43 50 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Guided tour at 10:15 on first Wednesday of every month | price= | wikipedia=List_of_museums_in_Brussels | image=Bruxella 1238 02.JPG | wikidata=Q1937507 | lastedit=2017-10-04 | content=From 1238 onwards the Franciscans were given permission to settle between the Senne river and the Grand-Place, which were strategic points in the city in the Middle Ages. This settlement reflects the important role played by these men in the city’s social and religious life. The site knew good times and periods of adversity, expansion, destruction during the Calvinist period and the 1695 bombardment; it was rebuilt several times, only to finally disappear during the French period. In this underground archaeological museum, the history of Belgium’s capital city is told from a different angle. }} [[File:Bourse Bxl 02.JPG|thumb|right|Stock Exchange (Bourse/Beurs), Brussels]] * {{see | name=Stock Exchange | alt=Bourse/Beurs | url= | email= | address= | lat=50.84795 | long=4.35041 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Brussels Stock Exchange | image=Bourse Bxl 02.JPG | wikidata=Q1146518 | content=Former stock market building. Locals like to sit on the steps, sometimes with fries. A local restaurant owner has proposed turning the unused building into a beer hall. }} [[File:Manneken Pis Brussel.jpg|right|thumb|Manneken Pis]] * {{see | name=Manneken Pis | alt= | url= | email= | address=Stoofstraat 57 | lat=50.84499 | long=4.34998 | directions=walk south-west from the Grand-Place in the street adjacent to the City Hall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | wikipedia=Manneken Pis | image=Bruxelles Manneken Pis.jpg | wikidata=Q152072 | lastedit=2017-10-04 | content=A short walk from the Grand-Place/Grote Markt is the Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue thought to represent the "irreverent spirit" of Brussels. This is a statue of a child urinating into a pool. Belgians have created hundreds of outfits for this statue. There are many stories of the statue's origins. It is believed to have been inspired by a child who, while in a tree, found a special way to drive away invading troops. Another story goes that a father was missing his child and made a declaration to the city that when he found him he would build a statue of him, doing whatever it was that he was doing. It has also been said a witch turned him to stone for peeing on her property. Yet another story goes that Brussels was under siege and enemies had planted explosives in the city; a boy saw the lit fuse and urinated on it, preventing the explosives from blowing up thus saving the city. The most likely scenario is that it was the location of the market for urine, which was used for its ammonia content to tan leathers. None are definitively true. In 1747, Louis XV's soldiers stole the statue, upsetting many of the city's residents. Louis XV made it up to the city by giving the statue a medal of honor (so that he must be saluted when French soldiers pass by) and by giving him an outfit. He now gets dressed up on special occasions. Although a famous icon of Brussels and a source of inspiration for countless souvenirs, Manneken Pis is an overhyped attraction that frequently tops polls ranking the world's biggest tourist traps, and definitely not worth a major detour to take a look at. }} :* {{listing | type=see | name=Manneken Pis Wardrobe | alt=GardeRobe Manneken Pis | url=https://www.brusselsmuseums.be/en/museums/garderobe-mannekenpis | email=musea@brucity.be | address=Eikstraat 19 | lat=50.84414 | long=4.35104 | directions=uphill from Manneken Pis | phone=+32 2 514 53 97 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10AM-5PM | price=€4/adult | lastedit=2019-11-27 | content=This small museum houses the wardrobe of Manneken Pis, Brussels' most famous statue. Because Manneken Pis has nearly 1000 different costumes, of which some historic specimens are sensitive to decay resulting from variations in temperature and humidity, only about 100 costumes are shown to visitors at a time. The collection on display rotates regularly. The costumes in storage can be viewed through an interactive database. }} :* {{see | name=Jeanneke Pis | alt= | url= | email= | address=Getrouwheidsgang 10 | lat=50.8484807 | long=4.3540406 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | wikipedia=Jeanneke Pis | wikidata=Q152360 |image=Jeanneke Pis, Brussels, Belgium (DSCF4010).jpg | lastedit=2018-05-19 | content=The female counterpart of ''Manneken Pis'', Jeanneke (an adaptation of an old local name for girls, ''Jeanne'') is a 0.5 m tall bronze statue depicting a squatting and peeing girl with pigtails. Unlike ''Manneken Pis'', Jeanneke is a more recent creation, commissioned in 1985 by Denis-Adrien Debouvrie and inaugurated in 1987. Jeanneke's initial purpose was to lure more visitors to the somewhat neglected neighborhood, but it never became as popular as ''Manneken Pis'', and has been put behind steel bars to protect it against vandalism. }} * {{see | name=Charles Buls Fountain | alt=Fontaine Charles Buls/Karel Buls fontein | url= | email= | address=Grasmarkt | lat=50.84662 | long=4.35466 | directions={{station|Centraal Station|1|5|86|n13|n16}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24/7 | price= | wikipedia=Charles Buls | wikidata=Q51056992 |image=Charles Buls fountain - IMG 3710.JPG | lastedit=2018-07-02 | content=Statue of Charles Buls, mayor of Brussels from 1881 until 1899. Charles was a prominent defender of equal rights, an intellectual, writer and widely regarded as the greatest mayor in modern history of the city. As son of a jeweler, young Charles was gifted with creativity and intelligence, and taught himself several languages including Latin and French. From 1879 he was elected into the Brussels city council and assigned the mandate of education. Through cunning diplomacy and liberal view points, he was promoted to mayor and gained fame as the defender of the Brussels cultural heritage. Most notable are his efforts to protect the historic city center, including the now {{UNESCO}} classified Grand-Place, from demolition by king Leopold II. The king envisioned a layout for Brussels that resembled the graneur of [[Paris]], with little regard for the organic growth of the city or its history. Charles Buls was among the only few politicians brave enough to oppose the large scale demolitions orchestrated by the king to make room for monumental buildings such as Law Courts building. Buls succeeded at preserving the Grand-Place but lost the Rochus neighborhood to make room for the Hill of Arts, a project ultimately cancelled and turned into the park it is today. Exhausted by his opposition against the king, and frustrated by the French dominion, he resigned as mayor in 1899 and withdrew from politics. His statue, around the corner of the Grand-Place he managed to save, was paid for by the architects who restored the facades of the Grand-Place buildings in 1999. It stands at the ''Grasmarkt'' where the jewelry store of his father used to be, and depicts Charles Buls with his dog. }} [[File:Théâtre_de_la_Monnaie_1.JPG|thumb|right|La Monnaie/De Munt opera, cultural remnant of the French occupation]] * {{see | name=La Monnaie | alt=De Munt | url=https://www.lamonnaie.be/en | email=info@lamonnaie.be | address=Leopoldstraat 23 | lat=50.84960 | long=4.35425 | directions={{rint|brussels|metro}} {{station|De Brouckere|1|3|4|5}} | phone=+32 2 229 12 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=La_Monnaie | image=Koninklijke_Muntschouwburg_Brussel.jpg | wikidata=Q551479 | lastedit=2018-06-15 | content=The most famous concert venue for opera, ballet and classic music in the city. Its history dates back to the early 18^th century, when the first opera was erected at the location of a former mint, the factory in which currency for [[Flemish Brabant|Brabant]] was minted, and what it derived its name from. Lack of funding caused it to be neglected however, and a century later the [[France|French]] occupiers decided to build a new opera behind the first one. It is a design from French architect Louis-Emmanuel Aimé Damesme in his characteristic neo-classic style, which can be easily recognized on the facade. After Napoleons demise, the liberated city decided to simply finish the nearly completed building, and it was officially opened in 1819. The opera played an important role in the independence of Belgium. When in the night of 25 August 1830 the French opera ''The Mute of [[Portici]]'' was performed to celebrate the 58^th anniversary of [[The Netherlands|Dutch]] king Willem I, the audience was moved by the nationalistic themes of the work, and later that night anti-Dutch riots erupted in the city that would eventually lead to the Belgian Revolution, and Belgian independence later in 1830. }} * {{see | name=Tintin Mural | alt= | url= | email= | address=Stoofstraat 33 | lat=50.84535 | long=4.35033 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | wikipedia=Brussels' Comic Book Route | image=Kuifje_en_Haddock.jpg | wikidata=Q3364879 | lastedit=2018-05-19 | content=A 36m² mural of Tintin, one of Belgium's most famous comic book heroes, and his sidekick Captain Haddock escaping the building on an emergency ladder. The mural was painted by Georgios Oreopoulos and David Vandegeerde in 2005, and is one of over 50 comic book themed murals in Brussels. The project started in 1993, when deputy Michel Van Roye banned ugly advertising panels within the inner city, and the Comic Book Museum (''Stripmuseum'') suggested to fill the liberated areas on building walls with large murals after the example of [[Angouleme]] where a similar comic book wall existed, a work of Erro from 1985. The collection of murals is still expanded very year, and travelers will encounter many in the inner city. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Fashion & Lace Museum | alt=Musée Mode & Dentelle/Mode & Kant Museum | url=http://www.fashionandlacemuseum.brussels/nl | email=caroline.esgain@brucity.be | address=Violetstraat 6 | lat=50.84584 | long=4.35185 | directions={{station|Grote Markt|33|48|95}} | phone=+32 2 279 43 67 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10:00-17:00 | price=€8, seniors €6, students €4, below 18 free | wikipedia=Museum of Costume and Lace | wikidata=Q2193737 |image=Museum of Costume and Lace exterior.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-19 | content=Lace was one of the fine trades that gave Brussels as a city its fame during the 19^th century. From 1977 onwards, the city council decided to dedicate a museum to lace textile and costumes to emphasize its importance to the city's history. During the museum's 40-year history, the collection has continuously expanded. It covers the entire reange of civil fashion in Western Eurpe from the 18^th century up to the present. On display are items gifted to the museum by lace enthusiasts, and specialty items acquired by the museum. There are strict norms regarding temperature, light and humidity in the museum to optimize the conservation of the collection. Because of these constraints to conservation, not the entire collection is on display at any time, but alternating fractions are presented to the public in the context of changing yearly expositions. The museum has a strong emphasis on contemporary fashion, including the acquisition of Belgian and Brussels items. }} * {{see | name=Art Thema Gallery | alt= | url=https://artthema.com/ | email=communication@artthema.com | address= | lat=50.84495 | long=4.35498 | directions={{rint|be|rail}} {{rint|brussels|metro}} {{rint|brussels|1}}{{rint|brussels|5}} {{station| Centraal Station|29|38|48|63|65|66|71|73|86}} or {{station| Bozar|38|71}} | phone=+32 2 514 31 73 | tollfree= | hours=Th-M 11:00-18:30, by appointment Tu and W | price=Free | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-05-21 | content=Gallery for contemporary art, with works of Caroline Brisset, Lou-Brice Léonard, Peter Henri Stein, and countless others on display. The gallery covers the entire spectrum of fine arts, including sculptures, statues, and installations. Exhibitions regularly take place, the recurruring one is ''Resident Artists'', on artists who work and live in the workshop of the gallery. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Museum of Original Figurines | alt=MOOF Museum | url=http://moofmuseum.be/?lang=en | email=info@moof-museum.be | address=Grasmarkt 116 | lat=50.84656 | long=4.35557 | directions=underground via Brussels-Centraal | phone=+32 2 207 79 92 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Su 10AM-6PM | price=adults €10, students and seniors €7, kids below 12 {{EUR|3}} | image=Statue Schtroumpf Moof, Bruxelles.jpg | wikidata=Q3328436 | lastedit=2019-10-31 | content=Belgium has a rich history of comics and comic characters, with titles like ''Suske en Wiske'', ''Jommeke'' and ''Kiekeboe'' known by all Belgian children. Comic character figurines are popular, and the come to life in the museum. Visitors are immersed in the third dimension of the 9th art through a unique collection of comic book figurines. The collection is accessibly presented to a wider audience of young and old enthusiasts with numerous well known figures on display, as well as less known characters for a professional audience. Some figurines from American and French comic books are on display as well. Most of the sets are handcrafted by young local artists and students, staging a graphic and colorful universe. Temporary exhibitions are also occasionally hosted. Guided tours cost €85 and last 50-70 minutes. The final room of the museum is a pub that serves MOOF's beer. }} ===Churches=== [[File:Chapelle de la Madeleine 01.JPG|thumb|right|The Mary Magdalene Chapel from the 15^th century, one of the oldest preserved churches in Brussels]] * {{see | name=Mary Magdalene Chapel | alt=Chapelle de la Madeleine/Maria Magdalenakerk | url=http://www.kerkeninvlaanderen.be/pages/kerk_00279.htm | email= | address=Magdalenasteenweg 31 | lat=50.8455 | long=4.3552 | directions={{station|Centraal Station|1|5|86|n13|n16}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=nl:Maria Magdalenakerk (Brussel) | wikidata=Q2957320 |image=Brussel-Magdalenakapel (1).JPG | lastedit=2018-06-19 | content=One of the oldest churches in Brussels, dating from the 15^th century. It is constructed from red bricks and local sandstone with a high carbonate content, making it very sensitive to acidic rain. The pointed facade, incorporating an octagonal bell tower, dates from 1453. The Baroque entrance portal with broken pediment bears the inscription DOM · S. MARIA MAGDALENA · SACRUM · ANNO 1637. The oak wook broker between the door leaves is special because the sculpture depicts the crucifiction of Christ, along with Mary Magdalene and angels. The current broker is a replica, the original one is hosted in the Museum of the City of Brussels. The north side of the chapel hosts a sacristy in pseudo-traditional style, against which the west facade of the former St. Anna chapel is built in Baroque style, a design by Leo van Heil dating back to 1661. The statue of Anna with Mary above the gate is a replica of a sculpture by Duquesnoy, the original can be viewed in the St. Gudula cathedral. The interior of the hcapel has a basilic nave and two side aisles. Furniture and glass windows are modern, unfortunately nothing is left of the historical altars, burial tombs and paintings. The history of the chapel dates back to the 13^th century, when it was founded by a mendicant order. They were taken over by the St. Gudula convent in 1299 and a monastery was built, but after a dispute with pope Clement V, the estate came in the hands of the city magistrate of Brussels who assigned it to the hospital friars of St. Nicholas brotherhood. By the end of the 15^th century their numbers had dwindled however, and the endowments were assigned to the Carthusians of Scheut. The church was replaced by a late gothic design, an initiative from the Brussels baker's guild. The bell tower was completed in 1453, and the monastery buildings demolished. From 1581 to 1585 the church was managed by the French Reformation, and in 1637 it received the status of an auxiliary church of St. Gudula. It sustained heavy damage by the shellings of the Nine Year War, but rebuilt in 1696. The scorched walls were demolished, and a new Baroque nave and choir added. In the early 20^th century, the church was threatened by construction of the north-south railway connection, but its historic importance was recognized and the building saved, after which restoration commenced. Under coordination of architects Simon Brigode and Maxime Brunfaut, the 15^th century building was restored based on iconographic documents and excavations. They removed the plastering and reconstructed the chapel walls that had been torn down in 1676, as well as buttresses, pillars, and the choir. The former sacristy was also built across the church with the facade of the former St. Anna chapel. The Baroque facade was rebuilt brick by brick. During the restoration between 1956 and 1958, older retaining walls were discovered, which are possibly remnants of a building constructed by the Templars, dating from before the first church. }} * {{see | name=Church of St. Nicholas | alt=Église Saint-Nicolas/Sint-Niklaaskerk | url=http://www.upbxlcentre.be/eglises/saint-nicolas/ | email=mariotto_007@hotmail.com | address=Boterstraat | lat=50.84791 | long=4.35159 | directions={{rint|brussels|metro}} {{rint|brussels|3}}{{rint|brussels|4}} {{station| Beurs|32|48|87|95}} | phone=+32 474 97 1 7 82 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 10:00-17:30, Sa-Su 9:00-18:00 | price=Free | image=Bruxelles_-_Eglise_Saint-Nicolas_01.JPG | wikidata=Q2762071 |wikipedia=nl:Sint-Niklaaskerk (Brussel) | lastedit=2018-05-19 | content=One of the oldest remaining churches of Brussels, the history of the St. Nicholas Church dates back to the 12^th century with the construction of a chapel for traders in the market district. It is named after St. Nicholas, the protector of merchants in Christian mythology. The church had a turbulent history and suffered many natural and cultural disasters. Its belfry tower was destroyed by a storm in 1367, but had been rebuilt by 1380 in the new Gothic style of the era, but with preservation of the Romaneque foundations. One of the first automated mechanical clocks in the world were installed in the tower. It served as the meeting hall of the city council, and trumpetters announced new acts and decisions. Between 1662 and 1665 an additional floor and dome was added by architect Leo van Heil. It then was attacked by iconoclasts in the 16^th century, which became a Parish church in 1618. It was again under attack in 1695 by [[France|French]] marshall Villeroy whose cannons destroyed nearly the entire center of the city and started a fire in the church. The bells crashed down from the bell tower. One of the cannon balls, penetrating one of the stone pillars, can still be seen today. Once again the church was rebuilt in 1712-1713, and architect Willem De Bruyn replaced the upper floors. Unfortunately, proper foundations were neglected, and because of the marsh around the Zenne, the tower collapsed for a second time in 1714. The City Museum has a scale model of the tower on display that eventually never got erected. It took until 1956 for the Gothic front of the church to be rebuilt after the collapse of the tower, but small Romaneque remains can also be observed. A final restoration was completed between 2002 and 2006. The church is under the care of Father Mario Rosas, and religious ceremonies are still frequently held in the church. The buildings to the south east side of the church have been occupied by merchants throughout the churches' history, and give a good impression of the size and scale of merchant houses in Medieval Brussels. The peculiar orientation of the building is attributed to the flow of the original Zenne river. Of particular interest in the interior of the church are the choir chairs dating from 1381, with medaillons telling the story of St. Nicholas. }} [[File:Bon_Secours_03.jpg|thumb|right|Cupola of ''Our Lady of Bon Secours'' in Baroque style]] * {{see | name=Church of Our Lady of Bon Secours | alt=Église Notre-Dame de Bon Secours/Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Goede Bijstandkerk | url=http://www.goedebijstand.be/ | email=annelies.aerts@bijstandsnetwerk.be | address=Kolenmarkt 89 | lat=50.84567 | long=4.34771 | directions={{station|Anneesens|3|4|32|46}} | phone=+32 69 84 78 14 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=F 20:00-23:00 | price= | wikipedia=nl:Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Goede Bijstandkerk | image=2043-00050-Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Goede Bijstandkerk.jpg | wikidata=Q3580505 | lastedit=2018-07-02 | content=Church in [[Italy|Italian]] Baroque style, with an unusual circular three-aisled layout and a central hexagonal dome to which 3 semicircular apes connect. The facade consists of 3 bays, delineated by ionic pilasters on high plinths. Above the circular arch portal is the emblem of Charles of [[Lorraine]] — a reconstruction after the original was destroyed by [[France|French]] revolutionaries during the French occupation of Brussels. In the circular arc flanked by fire vases, a statue of Our Lady with Child, by Godefroid Van Den Kerckhove, decorates the facade along with shell motifs referring to Saint James. The impressive dome allows daylight to enter the building. The side aisle stands were innovative for their time. The high altar, in marble and timber, was designed by Jan Peiter van Baurscheidt the Elder in 1705. The later added cherubs and medallions on either side of the altar are attributed to Gilles-Lambert Godecharle. The side altars, dedicated to Saint Jacob and Saint Joseph, contain images of these saints by Jan Baptist van der Haeghen. The church originated as chapel of a 12^th century inn, catering to the needs of travelers and pilgrims to [[Santiago de Compostella]]. By the end of the 16^th century these pilgrimages had become less popular due to the religious disputes between the [[Netherlands]] and [[Spain]]. Jacob Meeus, the innkeeper, tried to increase business by organizing religious services centered around a 14^th century Our Lady Mary statute that was attributed magical powers. It became a success, and the chapel was quickly too small, leading to the construction of the current church in 1664. Construction took over 30 years, with the original plans drawn by architect Jan Cortvrindt and after his death the work completed by 2 other architects. A few years after completion the church was heavily damaged in the bombardment of Brussels: the roof, dome and furniture were damaged and needed repairs. The church was briefly closed from 1797 to 1803 during the French Revolution, but reopened as an auxiliary of the St. Catherine's church. The bell tower, a design of Hendrik Partoes from 1850, now replaces the original one that had been removed in 1727. The facade was renovated in 1904. }} ==Do== ===Cinema=== * {{do | name=Actors Studio | url= | email= | address=Kleine Beenhouwersstraat 17-19 | lat=50.84790 | long=4.35299 | directions={{station|De Brouckere|1|3|4|5|71}} | phone=+32 2 512 16 96 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by the cooperative nouveau cinema. Screens interesting films in their original version with French and Dutch subtitles. }} * {{do | name=Cinema Nova | alt= | url=http://www.nova-cinema.org/?lang=en | email=nova@nova-cinema.org | address=Arenbergstraat 3 | lat=50.848341 | long=4.356027 | directions={{station|Arenberg|29|66|71}} | phone=+32 2 511 24 77 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An independent-to-the-bone cinema showcasing the more esoteric side of cinema - films which would not be shown elsewhere are generally shown here. A Korean Ultraman rip-off, a Pakistani documentary or a bleak Chilean cinema vérité flick? Only at Nova. ''Nova Cinema, 3 rue Arenberg-Arenbergstraat''. }} * {{do | name=Cinéma Galeries | alt= | url=http://www.galeries.be | email= | address=Koninginnengallerij 26 | lat=50.847458 | long=4.354624 | directions={{station|Arenberg|29|66|71}} | phone=+32 2 514 74 98 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An arthouse cinema and exhibition venue within the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries. ''Cinéma Galeries, 26 Galerie de la Reine - Koninginnegalerij''. }} ===Events=== Brussels has a good selection of year round events, many suitable for English speaking visitors. The following sites are useful to check out what's on. * {{do | name=Ancienne Belgique | alt= | url=http://www.abconcerts.be/en | email= | address= | lat=50.84708 | long=4.34941 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For popular concerts, where the stadium bands stop in. }} * {{do | name=Toone Royal Theater | alt= | url=http://www.toone.be/spip.php?page=sommaire&lang=en | email=woltje@skynet.be | address=Grasmarkt 66 | lat=50.84735 | long=4.35349 | directions= | phone=+32 2 513 54 86 | tollfree= |fax=+32 2 218 55 78 | hours=12:00-02:00 | price=€12, students, seniors and children get a €3 discount on Tuesday and Saturday afternoon | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-05-17 | content=A traditional Brussels' puppet theater, and an authentic café. Housed in a historic building with brick walls and tiles, crumbling plaster and wooden benches, the theater will give you an impression of what Brussels theater is like. The shows are only in French, but you don't need to understand what's being said to enjoy them. A variety of local beers is being served during shows, and afterwards of course. }} ===Tours=== * {{do | name=Sandeman's Brussels Free Tours | url=http://www.newbrusselstours.com/ | email= | address=meeting point right outside the City Hall at the Grand-Place | lat=50.84668 | long=4.35207 | directions={{station|Grand-Place|33|48|95}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily tours at 10:00, 11:00, 13:30, and 14:00 | price=Pay what you wish | content=Informative 3-hour tour. Groups can be large due to the low price! }} * {{do | name=Brussels Bike Tours | url=http://www.brusselsbiketours.com | email=info@brusselsbiketours.com | address=meeting point right outside the Tourist Information Office at the Grand-Place | lat=50.84675 | long=4.35189 | directions={{station|Grand-Place|33|48|95}} | phone=+32 484 89-89-36 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=From April to October daily at 10:00. From July to September daily at 10:00 and 15:00 | price=General €25 - Full-time students €22 | content=Daily bike tours in English allow you to see the main sights in about 3.5 hours. It includes a halfway stop for fries and beer (not included in price). Reservations recommended. }} * {{do | name=Brussels City Tours | url=http://www.brussels-city-tours.com | email=info@brussels-city-tours.com | address=Grasmarkt 82 | lat=50.84705 | long=4.35397 | directions={{station|Arenberg|29|66|71}} | phone=+32 2 513 77 44 | tollfree= | fax=+32 2 502 58 69 | hours= | price=€25/€23/€12.50 | content=Brussels City Tours is the main bus-tour company, with 2¾-hour tours of all the major sights. }} * {{do | name=Horse-drawn carriages | url= | email= | address=Charles Bulsstraat | lat=50.84626 | long=4.35205 | directions={{station|Grand-Place|33|48|95}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€18 per carriage | content=Horse-drawn carriages do circuits of the Lower Town starting from Rue Charles Bulsstraat, near the Grand-Place. }} * {{do | name=Brussels Pub Crawl | url=http://www.brusselspubcrawl.com | email=contact@brusselspubcrawl.com | address=At the bottom of the tallest white tower, nearby the big wooden door on Brussels Grand-Place | lat=50.846702 | long=4.352101 | directions= | phone=+32 478 23-60-32 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= M W-Sa at 21:30| price= €7 | content=Free welcome beer, mini beer tasting, party guide, and massive drink discounts. The tour starts at 21:30PM and finishes after 13:00. It visits 4 bars/club in 3 hours. Book on the website or just show up. }} ===Beer and waffles=== * {{do | name=BrewSpot | alt= | url=https://www.brewspot.com/ | email=contact@brewspot.com | address=Getrouwheidsgang | lat=50.8484 | long=4.3540 | directions= | phone=+32 479 56 47 23 | tollfree= | hours= | price=€65 | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q56023603 | lastedit=2018-06-06 | content=Interactive workshop teaching participants to brew a traditional Belgian beer in one afternoon, in groups up to 10 people. Starting from the basic concepts, the necessary steps to understand the brewing process are explained and demonstrated. The effect of ingredients and brewing process influence on the beer is illustrated through beer tasting, in different phases, up to the final beer. At the end of the workshop, participants take home a textbook, all the knowledge required to brew a Belgian beer, and the necessary beer tasting skills. For those interested, there is also an advanced brew master course offered, which goes into more detail on the technical aspects of beer brewing. }} * {{do | name=Waffle Workshop | url=http://waffleworkshop.com/ | email=info@waffleworkshop.com | address=Waffle Workshop starts on Brussels Grand-Place, in front of the Tourism Office (biggest white building) | lat=50.846702 | long=4.352101 | directions= | phone=+32 478 23-60-32 | tollfree= | fax= |wikidata=Q56023627 | hours=Daily at 15:15 | price=General €28, student €25, kids €18, family €75 (2 adults & 2 kids) | content=Learn how to make the best Brussels Waffles during this 90' hands on activity! Everything is provided: assistance from start to end, all ingredients, toppings (chocolate, cream, fruits, nutella,...), cookware, take home recipe, a free drink and as many waffles as you can eat! Great for team buildings, stag/hen parties, families & friends. }} * {{do | name=Beer experience in Brussels | alt= | url=http://beerexperiencebrussels.com/ | email=info@beerexperiencebrussels.com | address=Meeting point at the bottom of the tallest white tower, nearby the big wooden door on Brussels Grand-Place | lat=50.846702 | long=4.352101 | directions= | phone=+32 478 23-60-32 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M W-Sa nights at 20:90 | price=€14 |wikidata=Q56023645 | content=One-hour interactive & fun course on beer & Belgian brews. Learn everything you always wanted to know about beer & more. Get to meet other travelers and taste 5 beers for free! That's the fastest way to become a beer snob. Booking is compulsory either on the website or by phone. }} ===Escape games and treasure hunt=== * {{do | name=The Secret of Manneken Pis | alt= | url=https://www.escapeprod.com/en/escape-the-city/5-secret-manneken-pis.html | email=info@escapeprod.com | address=Stoofstraat 69 | lat=50.84450 | long=4.34939 | directions=further down the street | phone=+32 2 511 47 65 | tollfree= | hours= | price=adults €12, children under 16 €9 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-05-17 | content=''Escape The City: The Secret of Manneken Pis'' is an outdoor treasure hunt that invites players to explore the history of the inner city, and guides them along numerous iconic locations within the old city walls. Players cross the city in a small team, solve enigmas, and unravel the mysteries of a strange backpack they've been given. Making a reservation in advance is necessary, and it is advised to reserve well in advance. Keep in mind that the weather in Brussels is unpredictable, so late spring and summer are the best seasons to bet on. The treasure hunt takes between 90 and 120 minutes, and is suitable for children from 10 years old. }} * {{do | name=Enygma | alt= | url=https://enygma.be | email=hello@enygma.be | address=Albertinaplein 3 | lat=50.84447 | long=4.35523 | directions={{rint|be|rail}} or {{rint|brussels|metro}} {{rint|brussels|1}}{{rint|brussels|5}} ''Central Station'' | phone=+32 2 512 96 37 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Su 10:00-midnight | price=€20-120 | wikidata=Q56023559 | content=Escape games in the city center, near the Central Station. Widely considered among the most immersive escape games in the country. Three rooms available. Early booking is recommended. Puzzles of elevated complexity, not recommended for beginners. If you can't get a time slot, try the Escape Rooms down the street at no. 37 (see below) which are usually less crowded. }} * {{do | name=Escape Prod | alt= | url=https://www.escapeprod.com/en/ | email=info@escapeprod.com | address=Stoofstraat 69 | lat=50.8445673 | long=4.3492548 | directions=near Manneken Pis | phone=+32 2 511 47 65 | tollfree= | hours= | price=2 - 3 players €90, 4 - 5 players €100, 6 players €120 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-05-17 | content=Escape rooms with 2 adventures, lasting up to 60 minutes each: ''The Dalton's Escape'' in the Lucky Luke setting, and ''Blacksad: Private Detective'' with a traditional detective/mystery theme. }} * {{do | name=Escape Room Brussels | alt= | url=https://60minutes.be/en | email=info@60minutes.be | address=Sint-Jansstraat 37 | lat=50.84459 | long=4.35426 | directions={{rint|be|rail}} or {{rint|brussels|metro}} {{rint|brussels|1}}{{rint|brussels|5}} ''Central Station'' | phone=+32 2 828 14 00 | tollfree= | hours= | price=2 players €60, 3 players €75, 4 players €90, 5-6 players €100 | lastedit=2018-05-17 | content=Oldest escape rooms in Brussels, with 2 classic adventures: ''Manneken Pis'' themed around the city's iconic statue and its folklore, and ''The Bank Job'' in a scenario of a bank robbery that players need to plan and execute. Over 17 riddles to solve, games last 60 minutes each. }} * {{do | name=Quarantine | alt= | url=http://www.liveescapegames.be/ | email=quarantine@liveescapegames.be | address=Sint-Jansstraat 45 | lat=50.84459 | long=4.35395 | directions={{rint|be|rail}} or {{rint|brussels|metro}} {{rint|brussels|1}}{{rint|brussels|5}} ''Central Station'' | phone=+32 471 75 39 17 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=2 players €80, 3-6 players €100 | lastedit=2018-05-17 | content=Smaller escape games near the Brussels city center, with 2 aventures of 60 minutes each: ''The Maffia Room'': players sneak into the office of a mafia gang's boss, and need to find clues to dismantle his network before the time runs out. Suitable for 2-3 players, max. 4; and ''Apocalypse'': players find themselves in a post apocalyptic scenario after the outbreak of a deadly virus, and must work together to escape. Suitable for larger teams up to 6 players. }} ==Buy== [[File:Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert.jpg|thumb|right|The Royal Galleries, one of the world's oldest shopping malls]] * {{buy | name=Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries | alt=Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert/Koninklijke Sint-Hubertusgalerijen | url=http://galeries-saint-hubert.com | email= | address=Rue du Marché aux Herbes/Grasmarkt 90 | lat=50.847332 | long=4.354654 | directions={{rint|be|rail}} {{rint|brussels|metro}} {{rint|brussels|1}}{{rint|brussels|5}} {{station| Centraal Station|29|38|48|63|65|66|71|73|86}} | phone=+32 2 545 09 90 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24/7 | price=Free | wikipedia=Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert | image=Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert.jpg | wikidata=Q1491935 | content=Considered one of the world's first shopping malls, the galleries preceded other famous 19th century shopping arcades such as those in [[Milan]] and [[St. Petersburg]]. It has twin facades with glazed arcaded shopfronts separated by pilasters and two upper floors, all in an [[Italy|Italianate]] Cinquencento style, under an arched glass-paned roof with delicate cast-iron framework. It consists of 2 sections, each over 100 m in length: the King Gallery (''Koningsgallerij'') and the Queen Gallery (''Koniginnegallerij''). They meet at the Butcher's Street (''Beenhouwersstraat'') with a slight bend, this was introduced intentionally to make the long perspective of the gallery, with its repetition of arches and windows, less tedious. The complex was designed by Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer who was determined to sweep away the labyrinth of dark alleys between the ''Grasmarkt'' and ''Warmoesberg'' by replacing it with an upscale shopping area. His idea, conceived in 1836 only a few years after Belgian independence, was finally authorized in 1845. The project met fierce opposition from the local community, which saw much of its property destroyed by the monumental project. Construction started in 1846 and lasted 18 months, when it was inaugurated by King Leopold, the first king of the independent Belgian nation. The galleries remain a shopping district today, but have turned into a tourist trap with inflated prices. They are worth a visit for the architecture and ambience, but don't buy anything there -- the same souvenirs and chocolates sold in the galleries can be found elsewhere in the city at much reduced rates. You'll find boutiques, bookshops, cafés, restaurants, and a theater and cinema here. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Brüsel | url=http://www.brusel.com | email= | address=Boulevard Anspach/Anspachlaan 100 | lat=50.847661 | long=4.349239 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Right in the center and one of the most up to date stores when it comes to contemporary comics. }} * {{buy | name=Sterling Books | url=http://www.sterlingbooks.be | email= | address=Rue du Fossé aux Loups/Wolvengracht 23 | lat=50.850088 | long=4.354848 | directions= | phone=+32 22 23 62 23 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa 10:00-18:00 | price= | content=One of the most popular English bookshops in downtown Brussels. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Friterie Tabora | url=http://www.friterietabora.be/ | email= | address=Rue Taborastraat 2 | lat=50.848151 | long=4.351703 | directions=near the Bourse | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=All natural frites with the widest selection of sauces available. It's open almost 24/7 and is a favourite among locals. }} * {{eat | name=De Gulden Boot (la Chaloupe d'Or) | url= | email= | address=Grand-Place/Grote Markt 24 | lat=50.846737 | long=4.353207 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the most famous restaurants in Brussels, situated on the Grand-Place. Beautiful old building, but too much of a tourist trap. And even after a €200 dinner, you will get charged €0.50 to visit the toilet. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Tapas Locas | url= | email= | address=Rue Marche au Charbons-Kolenmarktstraat 74 | lat=50.845842 | long=4.348500 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Crazy tapas, sensible prices. Some tapas include miniaturised Belgian favourites as well as the usual Spanish suspects. }} * {{eat | name=Arcadi | url= | email= | address=Rue d'Arenberg-Arenberglaan 1B | lat=50.848440 | long=4.355837 | directions=just at the exit of "Galleries de la Reine", in the direction opposite to the Grand-Place | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A quirky combination of old and new, the menu ranges all over the place but the reason people flock here is the selection of over 30 sweet and savoury pies (''tartes''). A slice big enough for a meal, served with salad, costs €7-7.50. Also special of cafe & slice of pie for €5. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Aux Armes de Bruxelles | url= | email= | address=Rue des Bouchers-Beenhouwerstraat 13 | lat=50.848093 | long=4.353906 | directions= | phone=+32 2 511-5550 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su | price= | content=Basic honest food, including some very decent moules. Crowded, although worth the wait. }} * {{eat | name='T Kelderke | url= | email= | address=Grand-Place/Grote Markt 15 | lat=50.846272 | long=4.353069 | directions= | phone=+32 2 513-7344 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=€9-19 main courses, €8.50 Plat du jour | content=Well-made typical Belgian fare. Try the ''carbonnades à la flamande'' (Flemish beef stew) & mussels. This place can feel cramped when full of diners. }} * {{eat | name=Chez Léon | alt= | url=http://www.chezleon.be/ | email= | address=Rue des Bouchers-Beenhouwerstraat 18 | lat=50.848185 | long=4.354036 | directions= | phone=+32 2 511-1415 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Now franchised into France as well, this is the original and while it's huge and looks like a tourist trap, the ''moules'' are excellent and it's packed every day. Moules, beer and a starter will set you back €25, and kids eat for free. }} ==Drink== <!-- Don't add a street and place name in one language only. To prevent confusion, street and place names must be added in both French and Dutch, as they do often differ completely. --> * {{drink | name=À La Mort Subite | alt= | url=http://www.alamortsubite.com | email= | address=Rue Montagne-aux-Herbes Potagères-Bergstraat 7 | lat=50.848582 | long=4.356309 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is the Brussels cafe par excellence. Since its opening in 1927, the decor remains unchanged but retains its charm. A warm welcome greets the eclectic clientele of which La Mort remains a firm favorite. }} * {{drink | name=Le Cirio | url= | email= | address=Rue de la Bourse-Beursstraat 18 | lat=50.848332 | long=4.350695 | directions=near the Bourse | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A traditional café where time has come to a stop. Also offers some simple meals. Don't forget to visit the bathroom, with the original tiles and porcelain. }} * {{drink | name=The Sister | alt= | url=http://www.thesister-brussels.com | email=thesister.cafe@gmail.com | address=Vlees-en-Broodstraat 3 | lat=50.84729 | long=4.35273 | directions=near the Grand-Place | phone=+32 2 5132226 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 12:00-22:00; F-Sa 12:00-02:00 | price= | lastedit=2018-03-15 | content=A small café specialized in beer tasting and organic foods. Fairly pricey, but usually quiet unless there are meetings of the local OpenStreetMap team going on. }} * {{drink | name=BXL Cafe/Bar | url= | email= | address=Oud Korenhuis 46 | lat=50.84433 | long=4.35258 | directions={{station|Grand-Place|48|95}} | phone=+32 2 502-9980 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Su-Th 12:00-00:00; F Sa 22:00-01:00 | price= | content=A stylish, friendly internet cafe in the center of Brussels. Offering high speed internet access, occasional live music/DJ, latest movies shown on video screens around the bar, regular art exhibitions. Gay friendly space with women's night every Wednesday from 20:00. }} ===Bars and clubs=== * {{drink | name=À La Bécasse | url= | email= | address=Rue de Taborastraat 11 | lat=50.848201 | long=4.351385 | directions= | phone=+32 2 511-0006 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves a typical Brussels product this slightly sweetened Lambic beer, white beer based on Lambic, Kriek Lambic and so on. The entrance is not that easy to find. }} * {{drink | name=Belgica | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kolenmarkt 32 | lat=50.84636 | long=4.34970 | directions={{station|Beurs|33|48|95}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-07-25 | content=Crowded (but super small) bar, which plays house music. }} * {{drink | name=Delirium Cafe | alt= | url=http://www.deliriumcafe.be | email= | address=Impasse de la Fidelité-Getrouwheidsgang 4A | lat=50.84845 | long=4.35392 | directions=on a pedestrian only sidestreet | phone=+32 2 514-4434 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Right in the centre of Brussels within a five-minute walk of the Grand-Place. This bar is all about the beer, even holding the 2004 Guinness world record for most beers available with 2,004 beers in 2004 (now 3,162 beers, according to their website)! Popular among foreigners. There are some smoke-free areas. Also next door are three different bars specialising in rum, tequila, and absinthe. }} * {{drink | name=Floris Bar | url=http://www.florisbar.com/ | email= | address= | lat=50.848430 | long=4.353997 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Right across from Delirium Cafe, famous for its absinthe. }} * {{drink | name=Le You | url= | email= | address=Rue Duquesnoy, Duquesnoystraat 18 | lat=50.844798 | long=4.354557 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For young clubbers who just want to party, 2 minutes walking southeast from the Grand-Place. }} * {{drink | name=Poechenellekelde | alt=Le Poech | url=http://www.poechenellekelder.be/ | email= | address=Rue du Chêne, 5 | lat=50.84474 | long=4.35002 | directions=just opposite the Mannekenpis | phone=+32 2 5119262 | tollfree= | hours= | price=[http://www.poechenellekelder.be/bieres.html la carte des bières] | image=Bruxelles 5 rue du Chêne 801.jpg | lastedit=2022-04-21 | content=The Poechenelkelder is much appreciated by inhabitants of Brussels. All kinds of Belgian beers are served. }} ==Sleep== ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Radisson Collection Hotel, Grand Place Brussels | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-collection-grand-place-brussels | email= | address=47 Rue du Fossé aux Loups, Brussels, 1000, Belgium | lat=50.849444 | long=4.356403 | directions= | phone=+32-2-2192828 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= |lastedit=2020-06-26| content=Three minutes' walk from the Grand-Place and the Central Station. Free Wifi, fitness center with sauna and solarium, restaurant "Sea Grill" has two Michelin stars. }} * {{sleep | name=Warwick Brussels | alt= | url=http://warwickhotels.com/brussels/ | email=info.warwickbrussels@warwickhotels.com | address=Rue Duquesnoy-Duquesnoystraat 5 | lat=50.845205 | long=4.354338 | directions=on the edge of the Grand-Place | phone=+32 2 505 55 55 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Starting from €99 | lastedit=2016-10-06 | content= }} ==Connect== {{Mapmask | 50.8509382,4.35232 | 50.850553,4.3535243 | 50.8504277,4.3540392 | 50.8500179,4.3553026 | 50.8496411,4.3569307 | 50.8490318,4.3567581 | 50.8489137,4.3568029 | 50.8488395,4.35689 | 50.8484217,4.3578358 | 50.8484126,4.3578575 | 50.8483679,4.3579628 | 50.8483342,4.3580331 | 50.8476676,4.3572953 | 50.847135,4.3581093 | 50.8463018,4.3589086 | 50.8462481,4.3588296 | 50.8440727,4.3556299 | 50.8439051,4.3551551 | 50.8437015,4.3547261 | 50.8435054,4.3543129 | 50.8427648,4.3526627 | 50.8424583,4.3516808 | 50.8444652,4.3479373 | 50.8447422,4.3474827 | 50.8449098,4.3466592 | 50.8449543,4.3465553 | 50.8452329,4.3459223 | 50.8455393,4.3462456 | 50.8454124,4.3465754 | 50.8509382,4.35232 }} {{isPartOf|Brussels}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|50.85|4.35|zoom=16}} 2zb6t44ikmt5el4jma0o4dhf2rormyo 0 165700 5091249 5030189 2025-07-11T09:00:53Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Casa Ladico 5091249 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== {{mapframe|lat=39.889444 | long=4.264167|zoom=14|show=listing,see,do,buy,eat,drink,sleep}} The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Mirador des Port | alt=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | url= | email= | address=Carrer de Dalt Vilanova | lat=39.891726 | long=4.259330 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360 016 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-09 | content=Showcasing great views of the port from its room, this hotel also has its own pool, and fitness area complete with jacuzzis. Some brilliant food too. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal-Residencia La Isla | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer de Santa Catalina | lat=39.888075 | long=4.269045 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-09 | content=This large hotel offers spacious rooms for good value. While the decor is unimaginative, the rooms are clean and the staff are pleasant. }} * {{sleep | name=Posada Orsi | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer de la Infanta | lat=39.887313 | long=4.265382 | directions=centre of Maó | phone= +32 971 364 751| tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-09 | content=Rooms are bright and clean and the hotel staff are attentive. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] <!--{{mapgroup|target=Q49550}}--> ===See=== * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=steelblue| name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. ===Sleep=== * {{marker|type=navy|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=navy| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} h19ahltnrje5w7t4tpdwth4quyay4si 5091250 5091249 2025-07-11T09:07:41Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Updated listing for Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port - practical info 5091250 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== {{mapframe|lat=39.889444 | long=4.264167|zoom=14|show=listing,see,do,buy,eat,drink,sleep}} The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal-Residencia La Isla | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer de Santa Catalina | lat=39.888075 | long=4.269045 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-09 | content=This large hotel offers spacious rooms for good value. While the decor is unimaginative, the rooms are clean and the staff are pleasant. }} * {{sleep | name=Posada Orsi | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer de la Infanta | lat=39.887313 | long=4.265382 | directions=centre of Maó | phone= +32 971 364 751| tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-09 | content=Rooms are bright and clean and the hotel staff are attentive. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] <!--{{mapgroup|target=Q49550}}--> ===See=== * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=steelblue| name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. ===Sleep=== * {{marker|type=navy|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=navy| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} 9wcv0c30dkzt54ayiy2ed80vpym7tll 5091254 5091250 2025-07-11T09:13:39Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Artiem Capri 5091254 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== {{mapframe|lat=39.889444 | long=4.264167|zoom=14|show=listing,see,do,buy,eat,drink,sleep}} The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal-Residencia La Isla | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer de Santa Catalina | lat=39.888075 | long=4.269045 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-09 | content=This large hotel offers spacious rooms for good value. While the decor is unimaginative, the rooms are clean and the staff are pleasant. }} * {{sleep | name=Posada Orsi | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer de la Infanta | lat=39.887313 | long=4.265382 | directions=centre of Maó | phone= +32 971 364 751| tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-09 | content=Rooms are bright and clean and the hotel staff are attentive. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] <!--{{mapgroup|target=Q49550}}--> ===See=== * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=steelblue| name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. ===Sleep=== * {{marker|type=navy|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=navy| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} gj11ij5bzaoa873uw5q0uhi5x1vinav 5091257 5091254 2025-07-11T09:21:01Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Hostal la Isla 5091257 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== {{mapframe|lat=39.889444 | long=4.264167|zoom=14|show=listing,see,do,buy,eat,drink,sleep}} The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Posada Orsi | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer de la Infanta | lat=39.887313 | long=4.265382 | directions=centre of Maó | phone= +32 971 364 751| tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-09 | content=Rooms are bright and clean and the hotel staff are attentive. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] <!--{{mapgroup|target=Q49550}}--> ===See=== * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=steelblue| name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. ===Sleep=== * {{marker|type=navy|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=navy| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} m551kr1pu8iq6x39crfelcl8ggvodto 5091259 5091257 2025-07-11T09:21:41Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Deleted listing for Posada Orsi - it's closed down 5091259 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== {{mapframe|lat=39.889444 | long=4.264167|zoom=14|show=listing,see,do,buy,eat,drink,sleep}} The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] <!--{{mapgroup|target=Q49550}}--> ===See=== * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=steelblue| name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. ===Sleep=== * {{marker|type=navy|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=navy| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} 3frwoaxjpj9ouvk18dfwlwvzn6lkjd7 5091260 5091259 2025-07-11T09:25:39Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ integrate with Sleep above 5091260 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== {{mapframe|lat=39.889444 | long=4.264167|zoom=14|show=listing,see,do,buy,eat,drink,sleep}} The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] <!--{{mapgroup|target=Q49550}}--> ===See=== * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=steelblue| name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} khk9dfg1a5fdodus7xlxaearsv5lnvt 5091263 5091260 2025-07-11T09:31:54Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Barceló Hamilton 5091263 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== {{mapframe|lat=39.889444 | long=4.264167|zoom=14|show=listing,see,do,buy,eat,drink,sleep}} The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] <!--{{mapgroup|target=Q49550}}--> ===See=== * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=steelblue| name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} b7tfw78dyyr0lxosbmvh2mjqa7wlg5p 5091301 5091263 2025-07-11T10:17:44Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Further out */ Punta Prima 5091301 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== {{mapframe|lat=39.889444 | long=4.264167|zoom=14|show=listing,see,do,buy,eat,drink,sleep}} The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] <!--{{mapgroup|target=Q49550}}--> ===See=== * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=steelblue| name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} 5lx9zkew8nkgruyhxeek6jqtuwk7j8g 5091302 5091301 2025-07-11T10:21:29Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Get around */ Bus 91 & 94 5091302 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. Bus 91 runs to Alcalfar and S'Algar every 2-3 hours, taking 20 min. Bus 94 runs hourly to Sant Lluís and Punta Prima, taking 30 min. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] <!--{{mapgroup|target=Q49550}}--> ===See=== * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=steelblue| name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} jv22jvnbxdun6hbj57svx3tx9c126ck 5091308 5091302 2025-07-11T10:24:01Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Get in */ map moved here 5091308 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== {{mapframe | 39.890 | 4.265 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. Bus 91 runs to Alcalfar and S'Algar every 2-3 hours, taking 20 min. Bus 94 runs hourly to Sant Lluís and Punta Prima, taking 30 min. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] <!--{{mapgroup|target=Q49550}}--> ===See=== * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=steelblue|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=steelblue| name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} 3u8e7qgqbu14fiq1dunaohf7x7ldwzg 5091312 5091308 2025-07-11T10:25:31Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Nearby */ integrate with See above 5091312 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== {{mapframe | 39.890 | 4.265 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. Bus 91 runs to Alcalfar and S'Algar every 2-3 hours, taking 20 min. Bus 94 runs hourly to Sant Lluís and Punta Prima, taking 30 min. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} r2otwae1x2sc81dwdn6td71150y32ff 5091314 5091312 2025-07-11T10:26:58Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* See */ integrated here 5091314 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== {{mapframe | 39.890 | 4.265 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. Bus 91 runs to Alcalfar and S'Algar every 2-3 hours, taking 20 min. Bus 94 runs hourly to Sant Lluís and Punta Prima, taking 30 min. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} === Further out === * {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=see|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=see|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=see | name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=black|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} 6mkczfbm8voop4ff8k130u76ndwpuuz 5091316 5091314 2025-07-11T10:27:47Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Drink */ integrate above 5091316 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== {{mapframe | 39.890 | 4.265 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. Bus 91 runs to Alcalfar and S'Algar every 2-3 hours, taking 20 min. Bus 94 runs hourly to Sant Lluís and Punta Prima, taking 30 min. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} === Further out === * {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=see|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=see|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=see | name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} q3djzhj0ovwf07b310xlswf5t7kzuza 5091318 5091316 2025-07-11T10:28:28Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Drink */ integrate here 5091318 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== {{mapframe | 39.890 | 4.265 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. Bus 91 runs to Alcalfar and S'Algar every 2-3 hours, taking 20 min. Bus 94 runs hourly to Sant Lluís and Punta Prima, taking 30 min. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} === Further out === * {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=see|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=see|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=see | name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} ===Drink=== * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} sz742zkr6ayhie5wsxydoibby5w91aw 5091320 5091318 2025-07-11T10:28:56Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Drink */ duplicate header 5091320 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== {{mapframe | 39.890 | 4.265 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. Bus 91 runs to Alcalfar and S'Algar every 2-3 hours, taking 20 min. Bus 94 runs hourly to Sant Lluís and Punta Prima, taking 30 min. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} === Further out === * {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=see|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=see|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=see | name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, ==Nearby== {{mapframe|show=blue,gray,teal,orange,black,darkblue,green,navy,steelblue}} [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] ===Do=== * {{marker|type=gray|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=gray|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} i4gtjtz99a9cugaoc2prf1ca3z3cdbk 5091355 5091320 2025-07-11T10:59:33Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Nearby */ integrate above 5091355 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== {{mapframe | 39.890 | 4.265 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. Bus 91 runs to Alcalfar and S'Algar every 2-3 hours, taking 20 min. Bus 94 runs hourly to Sant Lluís and Punta Prima, taking 30 min. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} === Further out === * {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=see|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=see|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=see | name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} 9ls2qk3mfhl8zxlntc6rx91hgg9nsx4 5091356 5091355 2025-07-11T11:00:21Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ integrated 5091356 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== {{mapframe | 39.890 | 4.265 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} ===By boat=== *{{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ===By plane=== * {{mapgroup-item | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport, Aeroport de Menorca {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, s/n | lat=39.864706 | long=4.226240 | directions=A bit out of town. Drive down the ME-14, where you'll reach the dual layered arrivals/departures roads. | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Menorca Airport | wikidata=Q651372| image=Aeroport de Menorca.jpg | lastedit=2018-06-08 | content=There are regular flights available to Menorca Airport (sometimes known as Mahon Airport) from mainland Spain and the sister islands of [[Ibiza]] and [[Mallorca]] through [https://www.iberia.com/gb/ Iberia] and their subsidiary [http://www.airnostrum.es/ Air Nostrum]. Flights from Spain are also available from [[Barcelona El Prat]] with [https://www.vueling.com/en Vueling] (subsidiary of IAG, the owners of Iberia and British Airways). If travelling from the [[UK]], various airlines offer regular scheduled services during the summer tourist season. Airlines [http://www.jet2.com Jet2], [https://www.tui.co.uk/flight/ TUI Airways] and [https://www.easyjet.com/en EasyJet] all fly from various regional and main UK airports direct to Menorca. British Airways offer services from [[London Heathrow]], [[Gatwick]] and [[London/East#By_plane|City]] airports. }} To get to your resort, Menorca's airport is served by buses to Maó (€2.65, 10 min) every half hour from around 06:00 to 22:00 and then hourly to midnight. The bus stops at the bus station, the Estacio Maritima and a couple of other intermediate points. Buses are then available to various resorts and towns across the island from the bus station. Taxis are available directly in front of the airport terminal and there is a range of car hire options to get to your resort. There are also various services (bookable online) that allow direct coach transfers to resorts across the island. ===By car=== ==Get around== The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. Bus 91 runs to Alcalfar and S'Algar every 2-3 hours, taking 20 min. Bus 94 runs hourly to Sant Lluís and Punta Prima, taking 30 min. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} === Further out === * {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=see|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=see|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=see | name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} * {{marker|type=do|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=do|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} 4mvwkz90r53vn2gqqnotv2k1jcpltbx 5091364 5091356 2025-07-11T11:11:14Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Get in */ By plane duplicated Menorca Get in 5091364 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== {{mapframe | 39.890 | 4.265 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} {{marker | name=Menorca Airport | type=go | wikidata=Q651372 }} ({{IATA|MAH}}) is 5 km southwest of town. It has flights from Mallorca and Ibiza, from Barcelona, and by budget airlines from Britain, see [[Menorca#Get in]]. It has the usual facilities including car hire. Buses run downtown every 30 min, taking 10 min. {{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ==Get around== The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. Bus 91 runs to Alcalfar and S'Algar every 2-3 hours, taking 20 min. Bus 94 runs hourly to Sant Lluís and Punta Prima, taking 30 min. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} === Further out === * {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=see|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=see|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=see | name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ==Do== * {{do|name=Glass-bottomed catamaran cruises |alt=|url=|email=|address=Carrer Moll de Llevant, 12|lat=39.889855|long=4.267977|directions=most depart from next to the Ferry Terminal in the Maó Port - tickets can be booked from their offices in the port|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-05|content=Numerous operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó, offering a chance to view the underwater, marine life and learn about some of Maó's history in the process. They are always fun and very recommendable.}} * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} * {{marker|type=do|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=do|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} jtnn3ngrplljph2m4to4p55m0fuqcll 5091366 5091364 2025-07-11T11:17:54Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ boat trips 5091366 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== {{mapframe | 39.890 | 4.265 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} {{marker | name=Menorca Airport | type=go | wikidata=Q651372 }} ({{IATA|MAH}}) is 5 km southwest of town. It has flights from Mallorca and Ibiza, from Barcelona, and by budget airlines from Britain, see [[Menorca#Get in]]. It has the usual facilities including car hire. Buses run downtown every 30 min, taking 10 min. {{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ==Get around== The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. Bus 91 runs to Alcalfar and S'Algar every 2-3 hours, taking 20 min. Bus 94 runs hourly to Sant Lluís and Punta Prima, taking 30 min. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} === Further out === * {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=see|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=see|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=see | name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ==Do== * '''Boat trips:''' several operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó. They sail from the port. * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} * {{marker|type=do|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=do|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} 57317wnp00hxhwer8q9d8yrbetd6gp3 5091369 5091366 2025-07-11T11:22:51Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ football 5091369 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Mahon Page Banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Maó.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Maó' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Maó''' (Spanish: '''Mahón''') is the capital city of [[Menorca]]. Known interchangeably as Maó (the original Catalan) and Mahon (the English), the city became the island's capital following the British Occupation of the island in 1708. The city is known for having one of the largest natural harbours in Europe (and the second largest in the world, with [[Pearl Harbor]] being the largest). It is also known for being one of the origins — and potentially the birthplace — of mayonnaise. ==Understand== Maó, like most of Menorca, has enjoyed a violent and bloody history with many countries wanting to lay claim to the island and in particular the valuable port at Maó. The city's history in particular begins in 1708, where during the War of Spanish Succession the British Royal Navy invaded the entire island, seeing a naval base established in the port at such a close proximity to mainland Spain. This gave the port much of its military history, most of which can still be toured on a number of boat trips today. The city was so strongly associated with the Navy that the entire area became known as 'Port Mahon'. Following a French invasion in 1756, in the Battle of Menorca, the Port came under French occupation and control, shortly before being lost to the British again and eventually, having been thrown to and from the British and Spanish, being handed to Spain for theirs to keep ever since. The link to the popular dressing mayonnaise originates from these battles too. As the dressing is originally French, its name was supposedly a chance to honour the 1756 French victory over the British, with the name "mahonnaise" being used around that time. Like much of the island, the industries prevalent in Maó are relatively rural, with two of the largest manufacturers producing Menorcan Gin and a brand of cheese known as 'Mahon Cheese', unique to the island. This is due to the island's excellent stock of dairy cows which produce milk laced with salt from the nearby seas, producing excellent dairy products. ==Get in== {{mapframe | 39.890 | 4.265 | height=500 | width=500 | zoom=14 }} {{marker | name=Menorca Airport | type=go | wikidata=Q651372 }} ({{IATA|MAH}}) is 5 km southwest of town. It has flights from Mallorca and Ibiza, from Barcelona, and by budget airlines from Britain, see [[Menorca#Get in]]. It has the usual facilities including car hire. Buses run downtown every 30 min, taking 10 min. {{listing | type=go | name=Port | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.891667 | long=4.266667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | image=Maó.jpg | wikidata=Q9064595 | content=Served by ferries to [[Palma de Mallorca]] and the mainland }} ==Get around== The bus system in Menorca is extensive, reliable and easy to use. The Mahon bus station is on the edge of the old town and can be easily reached on foot from the town. If you have luggage with you, you can also change to the city centre buses and drive a few stops closer to the hotel. Single journey between €1.65 and €2.50, to be paid to the driver. Trips to other places on the island cost up to €6.50. There is a recreation and information centre at the bus station, where all bus timetables are posted. The overland buses to the beaches run much less frequently in the low season (Oct-Apr), so it is advisable to make a note of the bus connection for the outward and return journey in advance. The buses are modern, and the next stop is shown on electronic boards. Bus 91 runs to Alcalfar and S'Algar every 2-3 hours, taking 20 min. Bus 94 runs hourly to Sant Lluís and Punta Prima, taking 30 min. ==See== * {{see | name=Església del Carme | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=39.888534 | long=4.266475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-08-17 | content=A church. }} *{{see | name=Xoriguer Gin Distillery | alt=Destilerías Xoriguer | url=https://www.xoriguer.co.uk/ | email= | address =Moll de Ponent, 07701 Mahon, | lat=39.891266 | long= 4.262019| directions= on the main port road next to the harbour in Mahon. | phone= +34 971 36 21 97 | tollfree= | hours= M-F 08:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-13:00 | price= Free to enter, a bottle of gin can be €30-50 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content=Menorca's own Xoriguer Gin Distillery, constructed during the 18th century, is on the Moll de Ponent dockside. Menorcan gin is distinctively aromatic and very tasty, and generally offered only there and by select European retailers elsewhere. You can sample and purchase it on-site, as well as the many other types of liquor that the Xoriguer Distillery manufactures. }} *{{see | name=Museu de Menorca | alt= | url=https://www.museudemenorca.com/en/home | email= | address=Pla des Monestir | lat= 39.891128| long= 4.261006| directions= | phone=+34 971 35 09 55 | tollfree= | hours= Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00, 18:00-20:00, Su and holidays 10:00-14:00| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This 15th-century former Franciscan monastery contains the earliest history of the island, the Roman and Byzantine eras and Muslim Menorca and includes paintings from more recent times times. }} === Further out === * {{marker|type=see|name=[http://www.fortalesalamola.com La Mola Fortress]|wikidata=Q11681904}} (''Fortalesa Isabel II La Mola'') c/La Mola s/n. {{phone|+34 971364040}}. Open daily. €7 — A magnificent Spanish fortress set over Maó harbour, a fine example of mid-19th-century Spanish military architecture. * {{marker|type=see|name=Castel Sant Felip|wikidata=Q2970599| lat=39.8653| long=4.30569}} {{phone|+34 971 36 21 00}} — A castle ruin. * {{marker|type=see|name=Fort Marlborough| lat = 39.863061 | long = 4.301399}} Cala Sant Esteva, {{phone|+34 971 36 04 62}} * {{marker|type=see | name=Talatí de Dalt | lat= | long= | wikidata=Q2389896}} — One of the most important prehistoric sites on the island. ==Do== * '''Boat trips:''' several operators offer glass-bottomed cruises around the harbour and port of Maó. * {{do | name=Maó theater | alt=Teatro Principal de Mahón | url=https://www.teatremao.com | email= | address=Carrer d'en Deià, 40 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6743317 | lastedit=2022-07-23 | content=The oldest opera house in Spain, built in 1829. }} * '''Football:''' [https://www.cdmenorca.es/ CD Menorca] play soccer down in the amateur leagues. Their Estadi Mahonés (capacity 4000) is southwest of town centre. * {{marker|type=do|name=Punta Prima Beach |lat=39.813527 |long=4.280258}} (''Platja de Punta Prima'') Carrer Bellavista, 11-13, 07713 Punta Prima (''head down the Carrer Mestral de Punta Prima then turn right onto the beachfront, then right again into the large car park''). Daily 24 hr – A relatively small beach with some great facilities in Punta Prima, another decent beach close to the Capital. Part of a busy family resort, there are lots of bars and cafes on the seafront and a large car park just next to the beach. There's lots of sunbed hire and pedalo hire available here too. Access can also be by local bus from Maó. * {{marker|type=do|name=Es Grau Beach|lat=39.949652|long=4.266410}} (''Platja Es Grau''). Carrer Pas des Tamarell, 11, 07701 Es Grau (''car park on the ME-5 road directly links to a bridge to access the long beach''). Daily 24 hr. Free. A great, long beach with shallow water ideal for families that is regarded by many as the closest decent beach to the capital, Mahon. Very close to the nearby nature reserve that has some great walks. Connected to Maó by local bus. ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat|name=American Bar|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaça Reial, 7, 07702 Maó|lat=39.887892|long=4.265023|directions=from the port of Maó head up the twisting Costa de ses Voltes then turn right at the top|phone=+34 971 36 18 22|tollfree=|fax=|hours=M-F 07:00 - 22:00, Sa 07:00 - 16:00, closed Su|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Sit down on a seat on the terrace while sipping on a coffee and pore over a newspaper at this recommended breakfast spot.}} ==Drink== * {{drink|name=Mirador|alt=|url=|email=|address=Plaza Espanya, 2, |lat=39.889101|long=4.266000|directions=from the harbour, head up the twisty Placa Espanya, and the bar is on the left|phone=+34 971 35 21 07|tollfree=|fax=|hours=09:00 - 01:00 daily|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=A popular music haunt for locals which impresses with its cave-like interior carved out of the walls above the harbour.}} * {{drink | name=Maritim Café | url=http://www.salgarhotels.com | email= | address=Carrer Moll de Llevant | lat=39.889293 | long=4.275487 | directions=from the harbourside, head for the casino; the bar is just next door | phone=+34 971 36 49 62 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice bar and terrace next to the Casino Maritim of [[Maó]]. At night is transformed into a lounge bar were people can have cocktails, long drinks and dance. |alt=Maritimo Maó|lastedit=2018-06-08}} * {{drink|name=Akelarre|alt=Akellare Jazz Dance Club|url=|email=|address=Moll de Ponent|lat=39.890444|long=4.264076|directions= in the heart of Maó's harbour, where the cruise ships dock|phone=+34 971 36 85 20|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Jazz music echos off the warm stone interior which is open until the wee hours. Great cocktail list.}} * {{drink|name=Vinateria Parra|alt=Parra In Vino Veritas|url=|email=|address=Carrer de San Fernando, 5 |lat=39.887667|long=4.266280|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-06-08|content=Indulge in a great selection of wines and accompany it with a selection of cheese or meat platters from the bar. The interior features timber and marble tables and compliments the soft music that plays.}} * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://sasinia.org/ Sa Sinia]|lat=39.877592|long=4.290019}} {{email|info@sasinia.org}} Sa Sinia Art Hub, Cl St Josep 49. {{phone|+34 622 56 73 19}} – Pleasant spot of a drink and some music. Local DJs spin anything from 1980s classics to hip hop. * {{marker|type=drink|name=[http://www.covadenxoroi.com/index.php?lng=uk Cova d'en Xoroi]|lat=39.865687|long=4.132899}} Carrer de Sa Cova nº 2 07730, Cala en Porter, Alaior. {{phone|+34 971 37 72 36}}. Nightclub open 11:00 - late. Open for daytime drinks 11:30 - close. Constructed out of a cave dug into the cliff stone and peering over it. The atmosphere within the cave is unique and must be seen to be believed. One of the few nightclubs in Menorca, it is open until the early hours of the morning. Watching the sun set over the sea from the terrace is simply breathtaking. == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Hotel Catalonia Mirador des Port | alt= | url=https://www.cataloniahotels.com/es/hotel/catalonia-mirador-des-port | email= | address=Dalt Vilanova 1 | lat=39.8917 | long=4.2593 | directions= | phone=+34 971 360016 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €150 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Mostly good reviews, some found facilities tired. The "mirador" is a view of grubby industrial dockland, go for a pool view. }} * {{sleep | name=Artiem Capri | alt= | url=https://www.artiemhotels.com/capri-mahon/ | email= | address=Sant Esteve 8 | lat=39.8886 | long=4.2565 | directions= | phone=+34 971 361400 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious modern hotel 1 km west of centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Hostal la Isla | alt= | url=https://www.hostal-laisla.com/ | email= | address=Santa Catalina 4 | lat=39.8881 | long=4.2691 | directions= | phone=+34 971 64 92 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Basic but clean and central. }} * {{sleep | name=Casa Ládico Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Anuncivay 26 | lat=39.8879 | long=4.2666 | directions= | phone=+32 971 573700 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €180 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Charming central upmarket hotel in a 19th century townhouse. }} === Further out === * {{sleep | name=Barceló Hamilton | alt= | url=https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-hamilton-menorca/ | email= | address=Santa Àgueda 6, Es Castell | lat=39.8812 | long=4.2934 | directions= | phone=+34 971 362050 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €120 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Smart adults-only hotel on the coast 8 km east of city. }} * {{marker|type=sleep|lat=39.872293 |long=4.292876 |name=[http://www.songranot.com/ Son Granot]}} (''Son Granot Hotel Rural & Restaurant'') Carretera de Sant Felip, 41, 07720 Es Castell. (''follow the ME-6 past Es Castell and you'll soon see the rural hotel on your right''). {{phone|+34 871 20 08 93}} — Offers traditional Menorcan cuisine and Spanish and French wines. * {{marker|type=sleep| lat=39.835300 | long=4.297201 | name=[https://www.portbluehotels.com/en/hotels/portblue-san-luis/ PortBlue San Luis]}} Avenida Decima (''S'Algar''). {{phone|+34 971 150 750}}. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel-resort with 228 rooms available, 3 swimming pools, a lobby bar, and 2 restaurants. Nice beach bar open till 02:00 everyday. * {{marker | name=Punta Prima | type=sleep | lat=39.814 | long=4.280 }} is a village 12 km south of Maó. Accommodation includes: : [https://www.comitashotels.com/es/hoteles/hotel-isladelaire-en-illes-balears/ Isla del Aire] on Ponent : [https://www.insotelhotelgroup.com/hoteles/menorca/insotel-punta-prima-prestige-suites-y-spa Insotel Suites] on Mitjanera : [https://www.barcelo.com/es-es/barcelo-nura/ Barceló Nura] in Biniancolla, [[image:Fortalesa de la Mola (Maó) - 1.jpg |thumb|La Mola Fortress]] ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf| Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|39.889444| 4.264167|zoom=14}} nisi4q2mc4zr11n22ao2oc029elosdo 0 165758 5091267 5036608 2025-07-11T09:45:17Z Grahamsands 2164467 Added listing for Alfons Hotel - new listing 5091267 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Ciutadella WV banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Ciutadella.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Ciutadella de Menorca' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Ciutadella''' is one of two major cities on the island of [[Menorca]]. The original capital city, it retains much of the medieval, Gothic architecture constructed prior to the capital's move to the other city on the island, [[Maó]], and is popular with those looking to see an authentic Spanish, Mediterranean town on their visit to Menorca. ==Understand== [[File:Ciutadella de Menorca - 50291254248.jpg|thumb|Ajuntament de Ciutadella de Menorca (town hall)]] Ciutadella (officially known as ''Ciutadella de Menorca'') is the smaller of the two cities on [[Menorca]]. The Romans, Vandals and the Byzantine Empire at one point laid claim to it, and developed the settlement. As a result, it was the original capital city, and lost this status to [[Maó|Mahón]] during the island's time as a British dependency in the early 18th century. Despite no longer being the capital of the island, it did remain the religious capital as the Bishop refused to move during the British occupation, and stayed in the Cathedral Basilica of Ciutadella de Menorca. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|40.0026|3.8374|zoom=15}} ===By plane=== {{listing | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, [[Maó]] | lat=39.8625 | long=4.218611 | directions= | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q651372 | lastedit=2019-04-17 | content=Menorca Airport is the only airport on the island and so is the only way to Ciutadella if approaching from the skies. It sees daily international flights across the holiday season from a range of European countries, as well as year-round regional flights from both [[Palma de Mallorca]] and mainland Spain, including [[Madrid]].<br /><br /> In order to get to Ciutadella from the Airport, catch the Number 10 bus from the Airport's bus station to Mahon Bus station ({{€|2.65}}, 20 min), operated by [https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/ Torres] and you can view a timetable [https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/lineas-regulares/route-10/ here]. From Mahon Bus Station, take the 01 or 14 bus, which both take you directly to Ciutadella. The 01 is a stopping service and so stops at a few of the intermediary towns, taking an hour, whereas the 14 is an express service and takes 45 minutes. Both buses cost {{€|5.10}} per person and are operated by TMSA, with timetables [http://www.tmsa.es/ here]. }} ===By sea=== [[File:Murada sobre el Port de Ciutadella - 2.jpg|thumb|Ciutadella Port]] *{{listing | type=go | name=Ciutadella Port | alt=Ciutadella Harbour | url= | email= | address=Via Mestre Vives | lat=39.988931 | long=3.829496 | directions=Follow signs for the ME-24, then turn right onto the R2 road, and follow signs for the Port. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24021195 | lastedit=2019-04-17 | content=Ferries are available to Ciutadella with a daily service to [[Alcudia]] in Mallorca and [[Barcelona]] on the mainland. Alcudia ferries take roughly 1 hr 30 min, while Barcelona ferries can take between 5 and 6 hours. Services to both Alcudia and Barcelona are operated by [https://www.balearia.com/en Balearia], while ferries between Alcudia and Ciutadella are operated more regularly by [https://www.trasmediterranea.es/en/ Trasmediterranea]. Prices vary, but booking in advance for the best fares is strongly recommended. }} ===By bus=== Buses are available from every town and most resorts across the Island. There are three major bus companies on the island, but only two run into Ciutadella. Buses are relatively frequent, clean, and timely: drivers are friendly, and the island has no major traffic problems aside from occasional business on the main road. The remoteness of the various towns and cities on the island means that the buses are an efficient way to get around, and there is often few stops between your destination and your start point. The two bus companies that operate into Ciutadella are: * '''[http://tmsa.es/ Transportes Menorca (TMSA)]''', who run buses throughout the island. Their buses leave from Placa de Menorca in Ciutadella. * '''[https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/home/ Torres]''' run buses from Ciutadella to locations and resorts on the west coast. Their buses leave from the main plaza (Placa des Pins) in Ciutadella. It is worth checking these websites for the timetables and stop locations for these companies. Bus stops across the island are yellow, with a red top, and are easily distinguishable. Every resort has several. If approaching from [[Maó]], then there are two options from the Bus Station there. Both are operated by TMSA and cost {{€|5.10}} per passenger. The 01 stops in some of the major towns between Maó and Ciutadella, and so takes an hour to make the journey. This is an idyllic bus route that enables a glimpse of some true Mediterranean towns ([[Alaior]] and [[Es Mercadal]]). The 14 is an express service, that takes 45 minutes: it stays on the ME-1, and provides a more direct journey. ===By car=== Menorca's road system is fairly basic and so is easy to understand. From anywhere in the island, follow signs for the ME-1, the main road connecting the two cities. From the ME-1, head west, following signs for Ciutadella. This is the only major road across the island, and so can be very busy at times. Once arriving in Ciutadella, there is widely available on street parking, but this is typically taken by locals. There are several large areas to park your car, and these are inexpensive: *{{listing | type=go | name=Plaça des Born | alt= | url= | email= | address=Plaça des Born | lat=40.000942 | long=3.836551 | directions=from the end of the ME-1, head down the Carrer de Maó then turn right onto the Avinguda del Capità Negrete. Follow this to the end, then take the next two rights, which places you onto the road into the square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hr | price=€1-2 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-18 | content=This car park has around 100 spaces and is ideally centrally located. It is accessible easily from the ME-1 and is inexpensive, if looking to stay for the day. This car park is great because it is located right next to the Town Hall, and a minutes' walk from the Cathedral, and a few minutes from the harbour. As a result of this proximity, it can be popular - and fills up quickly in the morning. }} *{{listing | type=go | name=Plaça de la Pau | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer del Bisbe Sever, 10, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca | lat=39.998359 | long=3.838458 | directions=Turn left at the Rotonda del caballo, at the end of the ME-1. Turn right at the next roundabout, then left at the one after that onto the Carrer de Sant Antoni María Claret. Carry straight on over the next roundabout you reach, then turn right at the next one. The car park is directly ahead. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€1-€2 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-18 | content=This car park is slightly further out from the centre, but this means that it is often less busy. It is a 5 minute walk into town. It has less spaces than the Plaça des Born, but is often easier to find a space. }} ==Get around== ===By foot=== [[File:Plaza D'es Born - panoramio.jpg|thumb|Plaza D'es Born]] The city is very walkable and nearly everywhere is accessible by foot. Walking maps are available from most car parking areas, and street maps are prominently displayed on signage in areas of public interest. Ciutadella is a tourist town, too - it's easy to ask a local if you get lost; most can speak a reasonable degree of English as well as the native Spanish. ===By bike === The city, being almost completely flat and with wide avenues, is easily navigated by bike. Its straightforward street layout and parks are easy to navigate, but the 'old town' immediately surrounding the Cathedral might be more difficult to explore by bike, as its streets are smaller and If you arrive by Ferry from mainland Spain, you can bring yours with you for a small fee, or there are bicycle rental stores throughout the city. *{{listing | type=go | name=Velos Joan | alt= | url=http://www.velosjoan.com/es/ | email= | address=Carrer de Vila Juaneda Industrial, 23, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca | lat=40.002167 | long=3.842794 | directions= | phone=+34 971 38 15 76 | tollfree= | hours=10:00 - 14:30 | price=€20/day | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-18 | content=A great local store who are both professional and friendly. The bikes that they rent have a reputation for quality, and are generally affordable: their road bikes start from €20 a day, which is a great price to get around the city quickly. }} *{{listing | type=go | name=Tot Velo | alt= | url=http://totvelo.com | email= | address=Carrer d'Eivissa, 59, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca | lat=39.998077 | long=3.833866 | directions= | phone=+34 971 48 11 48 | tollfree= | hours=09:30 - 13:30, 17:00-20:00 Daily | price=€12/day | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-18 | content=This local company has plenty of bikes available at bargain prices. The staff are approachable, but their location is slightly further away from the centre of town, and can be a 20-minute walk. Their bargain rental prices - starting at €12/day - makes this walk worth it. }} ===By bus === The city is so small you might not need to use buses. But if you're looking to explore further afield, and investigate some of the magnificent beaches or heritage surrounding the city, Buses are one of the easiest ways to get around. If you're looking to explore around Ciutadella, then you'll primarily be using buses operated by '''[https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/home/ Torres]''': Their buses depart from {{Marker|type=other|name=Placa des Pins|lat=40.000032|long=3.835716}}, and are prompt, regular and clean, with friendly drivers that are happy to help. Introducing yourself and your destination in the local Catalan language will get a smile, but most understand mainstream Spanish and English. * '''[https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/lineas-regulares/route-60/ Route 60]''': This route takes a circular path around the outskirts of the city. It enables a great view of authentic Mediterranean life, and also stops by the medical centre, if that is needed. * '''[https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/lineas-regulares/route-61/ Route 61]''': This route heads out to Cala en Blaines and Los Delfines. There are some great beaches here (see [[Ciutadella#Do|#Do]]) as well as a Waterpark. A popular British tourist resort. * '''[https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/lineas-regulares/route-62/ Route 62]''': This bus route heads to a gorgeous bay with high cliffs. It's out of the way and so is quiet, and is a great place to explore. ==See== [[File:Ciutadella cathedral inside.JPG|thumb|A view of the magnificent glass inside the Cathedral.]] *{{listing | type=see | name=Ciutadella Cathedral | alt=Ciutadella de Menorca Cathedral | url= | email= | address=Carrer de Ca'l Bisbe | lat=40.001725 | long=3.837630 | directions= | phone= +34 971 38 26 93 | tollfree= | hours=10:30-13:30, 16:00-19:00 | price=€6 | wikipedia=Ciutadella de Menorca Cathedral | wikidata=Q730526 | lastedit=2019-04-19 | content=This majestic Roman Catholic cathedral was finished in the 14th century, and has changed little since. Its nave and various chapels are all original, and wonderful stained glass adorns its sides. Well worth a look inside, even if you're not religious. Wonderful Gothic architecture is open to be explored at your own pace. Information is made available in English, and the staff are very friendly. }} * {{see | name= Plaça d'Alfons III| alt= | url= | email= | address= Plaça d'Alfons III Conqueridor | lat= 40.002488| long= 3.840850| directions=in close proximity to Avda de la Constitució | phone= | tollfree= | hours= 24 hr | price=Free | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This plaza is lined with noteworthy restaurants and cafés that are worth more than a passing glance. Check out the aged windmill, which now serves as headquarters for the town's tourist information office. }} *{{listing | type=see | name=Convent Sant Agusti | alt=Seminario de Sant Agustí de Ciutadella | url= | email= | address=Carrer des Seminari | lat=40.001360 | long=3.838915 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€6 (entry included in entry cost to Cathedral) | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-19 | content=If you pay for entry to the Cathedral, you also gain entry to the Convent. This peaceful monastery contains beautiful gardens and is undergoing restorations. It features small exhibits on the history of Menorca, Ciutadella, and the Civil War. Not too busy, but there is plenty to explore and learn, as well as take some time out in the gardens. Contains a wonderful little art gallery. }} *{{listing | type=see | name=Líthica | alt=Pedreres de s'Hostal | url=http://www.lithica.es/ | email= | address=Camí Vell | lat=40.004489 | long=3.867440 | directions=from Ciutadella, follow signs for the RC-2 then turn right at the first roundabout and then immediately turn right | phone=+34 971 48 15 78 | tollfree= | hours=09:30-sunset | price=€5/person | lastedit=2018-06-09 | content=This is a working Sandstone quarry that has been opened up to the public. A walk around the grounds allows for a chance to see the ancient methods of mining this rock, and then the more modern, imposing approach. Beautiful gardens and a sandstone maze make this a fun place to explore for everyone. There are even concerts held here during summer in the quarry. A gift shop offers cool drinks (needed after the long walks in the sun!) and decorated pieces of sandstone to take away. It is easy to spend 3 hours or more here. }} *{{listing | type=see | name=Naveta des Toudons | alt=Naveta of Es Tudons | url= | email= | address=Carretera Mao-Ciutadella | lat=40.003083 | long=3.891605 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Naveta d'Es Tudons | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-23 | content=This remarkable stone structure is a megalithic burial tomb, constructed around 1200 - 750 BC. It is a fantastic experience to go and stand and peer into this tomb that contained 100 skeletons, some of which are on display in [[Maó]]. The monument resembles an upside-down boat and is a fascinating part of Menorcan history. It is well worth a visit, and is a very short drive out of Ciutadella, on the main road. Walking to it takes around an hour. It is even visible briefly from the ME-1 road. }} ==Do== *'''Horseback riding''' along the Cami de Cavalls: From the city it is interesting to hire one of these relaxing group horseback rides along some part of the "Cami de Cavalls" or Camino de Caballos, an old road that surrounds the entire island. *'''Bathing on Algaiarens beach''': This nearby beach is one of the most beautiful on the island. ===Festivals === *'''Summer Music Festival''': Every year this excellent Festival de Música d'Estiu is held in Ciutadella. *'''Processó des Tres Tocs.''' On January 17th every year: procession in memory of the capture of the city by King Alfonso III. *'''Festes de Sant Joan.''' Known throughout Spain equestrian games on St. John's Day (June 24th). ==Buy== *'''Fish and meat market''', at the Plaça de la Llibertat. Here you can get different types of the local specialty, the Menorcan queso (cheese). ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Alfons Hotel | alt= | url=https://alfonshotel.com/ | email= | address=Camí de Maó 53 | lat=40.0032 | long=3.8431 | directions= | phone=+34 971 380150 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Friendly clean place 500 m from centre. }} ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|40.000876|3.836125}} rqhkp4vguzgsljcukvafwxxz6xc7g07 5091270 5091267 2025-07-11T09:52:13Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Sleep */ Ferrer Skyline 5091270 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Ciutadella WV banner.jpg}} [[File:Localització de Ciutadella.png|thumb|The location of 'Ajuntament de Ciutadella de Menorca' within the island of Menorca.]] '''Ciutadella''' is one of two major cities on the island of [[Menorca]]. The original capital city, it retains much of the medieval, Gothic architecture constructed prior to the capital's move to the other city on the island, [[Maó]], and is popular with those looking to see an authentic Spanish, Mediterranean town on their visit to Menorca. ==Understand== [[File:Ciutadella de Menorca - 50291254248.jpg|thumb|Ajuntament de Ciutadella de Menorca (town hall)]] Ciutadella (officially known as ''Ciutadella de Menorca'') is the smaller of the two cities on [[Menorca]]. The Romans, Vandals and the Byzantine Empire at one point laid claim to it, and developed the settlement. As a result, it was the original capital city, and lost this status to [[Maó|Mahón]] during the island's time as a British dependency in the early 18th century. Despite no longer being the capital of the island, it did remain the religious capital as the Bishop refused to move during the British occupation, and stayed in the Cathedral Basilica of Ciutadella de Menorca. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|40.0026|3.8374|zoom=15}} ===By plane=== {{listing | type=go | name=Menorca Airport | alt=Mahon Airport {{IATA|MAH}} | url=http://www.aena.es/en/menorca-airport/index.html | email= | address=Carretera de Sant Climent, [[Maó]] | lat=39.8625 | long=4.218611 | directions= | phone=+34 971 15 70 00 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q651372 | lastedit=2019-04-17 | content=Menorca Airport is the only airport on the island and so is the only way to Ciutadella if approaching from the skies. It sees daily international flights across the holiday season from a range of European countries, as well as year-round regional flights from both [[Palma de Mallorca]] and mainland Spain, including [[Madrid]].<br /><br /> In order to get to Ciutadella from the Airport, catch the Number 10 bus from the Airport's bus station to Mahon Bus station ({{€|2.65}}, 20 min), operated by [https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/ Torres] and you can view a timetable [https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/lineas-regulares/route-10/ here]. From Mahon Bus Station, take the 01 or 14 bus, which both take you directly to Ciutadella. The 01 is a stopping service and so stops at a few of the intermediary towns, taking an hour, whereas the 14 is an express service and takes 45 minutes. Both buses cost {{€|5.10}} per person and are operated by TMSA, with timetables [http://www.tmsa.es/ here]. }} ===By sea=== [[File:Murada sobre el Port de Ciutadella - 2.jpg|thumb|Ciutadella Port]] *{{listing | type=go | name=Ciutadella Port | alt=Ciutadella Harbour | url= | email= | address=Via Mestre Vives | lat=39.988931 | long=3.829496 | directions=Follow signs for the ME-24, then turn right onto the R2 road, and follow signs for the Port. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24021195 | lastedit=2019-04-17 | content=Ferries are available to Ciutadella with a daily service to [[Alcudia]] in Mallorca and [[Barcelona]] on the mainland. Alcudia ferries take roughly 1 hr 30 min, while Barcelona ferries can take between 5 and 6 hours. Services to both Alcudia and Barcelona are operated by [https://www.balearia.com/en Balearia], while ferries between Alcudia and Ciutadella are operated more regularly by [https://www.trasmediterranea.es/en/ Trasmediterranea]. Prices vary, but booking in advance for the best fares is strongly recommended. }} ===By bus=== Buses are available from every town and most resorts across the Island. There are three major bus companies on the island, but only two run into Ciutadella. Buses are relatively frequent, clean, and timely: drivers are friendly, and the island has no major traffic problems aside from occasional business on the main road. The remoteness of the various towns and cities on the island means that the buses are an efficient way to get around, and there is often few stops between your destination and your start point. The two bus companies that operate into Ciutadella are: * '''[http://tmsa.es/ Transportes Menorca (TMSA)]''', who run buses throughout the island. Their buses leave from Placa de Menorca in Ciutadella. * '''[https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/home/ Torres]''' run buses from Ciutadella to locations and resorts on the west coast. Their buses leave from the main plaza (Placa des Pins) in Ciutadella. It is worth checking these websites for the timetables and stop locations for these companies. Bus stops across the island are yellow, with a red top, and are easily distinguishable. Every resort has several. If approaching from [[Maó]], then there are two options from the Bus Station there. Both are operated by TMSA and cost {{€|5.10}} per passenger. The 01 stops in some of the major towns between Maó and Ciutadella, and so takes an hour to make the journey. This is an idyllic bus route that enables a glimpse of some true Mediterranean towns ([[Alaior]] and [[Es Mercadal]]). The 14 is an express service, that takes 45 minutes: it stays on the ME-1, and provides a more direct journey. ===By car=== Menorca's road system is fairly basic and so is easy to understand. From anywhere in the island, follow signs for the ME-1, the main road connecting the two cities. From the ME-1, head west, following signs for Ciutadella. This is the only major road across the island, and so can be very busy at times. Once arriving in Ciutadella, there is widely available on street parking, but this is typically taken by locals. There are several large areas to park your car, and these are inexpensive: *{{listing | type=go | name=Plaça des Born | alt= | url= | email= | address=Plaça des Born | lat=40.000942 | long=3.836551 | directions=from the end of the ME-1, head down the Carrer de Maó then turn right onto the Avinguda del Capità Negrete. Follow this to the end, then take the next two rights, which places you onto the road into the square | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hr | price=€1-2 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-18 | content=This car park has around 100 spaces and is ideally centrally located. It is accessible easily from the ME-1 and is inexpensive, if looking to stay for the day. This car park is great because it is located right next to the Town Hall, and a minutes' walk from the Cathedral, and a few minutes from the harbour. As a result of this proximity, it can be popular - and fills up quickly in the morning. }} *{{listing | type=go | name=Plaça de la Pau | alt= | url= | email= | address=Carrer del Bisbe Sever, 10, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca | lat=39.998359 | long=3.838458 | directions=Turn left at the Rotonda del caballo, at the end of the ME-1. Turn right at the next roundabout, then left at the one after that onto the Carrer de Sant Antoni María Claret. Carry straight on over the next roundabout you reach, then turn right at the next one. The car park is directly ahead. | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€1-€2 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-18 | content=This car park is slightly further out from the centre, but this means that it is often less busy. It is a 5 minute walk into town. It has less spaces than the Plaça des Born, but is often easier to find a space. }} ==Get around== ===By foot=== [[File:Plaza D'es Born - panoramio.jpg|thumb|Plaza D'es Born]] The city is very walkable and nearly everywhere is accessible by foot. Walking maps are available from most car parking areas, and street maps are prominently displayed on signage in areas of public interest. Ciutadella is a tourist town, too - it's easy to ask a local if you get lost; most can speak a reasonable degree of English as well as the native Spanish. ===By bike === The city, being almost completely flat and with wide avenues, is easily navigated by bike. Its straightforward street layout and parks are easy to navigate, but the 'old town' immediately surrounding the Cathedral might be more difficult to explore by bike, as its streets are smaller and If you arrive by Ferry from mainland Spain, you can bring yours with you for a small fee, or there are bicycle rental stores throughout the city. *{{listing | type=go | name=Velos Joan | alt= | url=http://www.velosjoan.com/es/ | email= | address=Carrer de Vila Juaneda Industrial, 23, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca | lat=40.002167 | long=3.842794 | directions= | phone=+34 971 38 15 76 | tollfree= | hours=10:00 - 14:30 | price=€20/day | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-18 | content=A great local store who are both professional and friendly. The bikes that they rent have a reputation for quality, and are generally affordable: their road bikes start from €20 a day, which is a great price to get around the city quickly. }} *{{listing | type=go | name=Tot Velo | alt= | url=http://totvelo.com | email= | address=Carrer d'Eivissa, 59, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca | lat=39.998077 | long=3.833866 | directions= | phone=+34 971 48 11 48 | tollfree= | hours=09:30 - 13:30, 17:00-20:00 Daily | price=€12/day | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-18 | content=This local company has plenty of bikes available at bargain prices. The staff are approachable, but their location is slightly further away from the centre of town, and can be a 20-minute walk. Their bargain rental prices - starting at €12/day - makes this walk worth it. }} ===By bus === The city is so small you might not need to use buses. But if you're looking to explore further afield, and investigate some of the magnificent beaches or heritage surrounding the city, Buses are one of the easiest ways to get around. If you're looking to explore around Ciutadella, then you'll primarily be using buses operated by '''[https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/home/ Torres]''': Their buses depart from {{Marker|type=other|name=Placa des Pins|lat=40.000032|long=3.835716}}, and are prompt, regular and clean, with friendly drivers that are happy to help. Introducing yourself and your destination in the local Catalan language will get a smile, but most understand mainstream Spanish and English. * '''[https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/lineas-regulares/route-60/ Route 60]''': This route takes a circular path around the outskirts of the city. It enables a great view of authentic Mediterranean life, and also stops by the medical centre, if that is needed. * '''[https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/lineas-regulares/route-61/ Route 61]''': This route heads out to Cala en Blaines and Los Delfines. There are some great beaches here (see [[Ciutadella#Do|#Do]]) as well as a Waterpark. A popular British tourist resort. * '''[https://www.bus.e-torres.net/en/lineas-regulares/route-62/ Route 62]''': This bus route heads to a gorgeous bay with high cliffs. It's out of the way and so is quiet, and is a great place to explore. ==See== [[File:Ciutadella cathedral inside.JPG|thumb|A view of the magnificent glass inside the Cathedral.]] *{{listing | type=see | name=Ciutadella Cathedral | alt=Ciutadella de Menorca Cathedral | url= | email= | address=Carrer de Ca'l Bisbe | lat=40.001725 | long=3.837630 | directions= | phone= +34 971 38 26 93 | tollfree= | hours=10:30-13:30, 16:00-19:00 | price=€6 | wikipedia=Ciutadella de Menorca Cathedral | wikidata=Q730526 | lastedit=2019-04-19 | content=This majestic Roman Catholic cathedral was finished in the 14th century, and has changed little since. Its nave and various chapels are all original, and wonderful stained glass adorns its sides. Well worth a look inside, even if you're not religious. Wonderful Gothic architecture is open to be explored at your own pace. Information is made available in English, and the staff are very friendly. }} * {{see | name= Plaça d'Alfons III| alt= | url= | email= | address= Plaça d'Alfons III Conqueridor | lat= 40.002488| long= 3.840850| directions=in close proximity to Avda de la Constitució | phone= | tollfree= | hours= 24 hr | price=Free | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2018-06-05 | content= This plaza is lined with noteworthy restaurants and cafés that are worth more than a passing glance. Check out the aged windmill, which now serves as headquarters for the town's tourist information office. }} *{{listing | type=see | name=Convent Sant Agusti | alt=Seminario de Sant Agustí de Ciutadella | url= | email= | address=Carrer des Seminari | lat=40.001360 | long=3.838915 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=€6 (entry included in entry cost to Cathedral) | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-19 | content=If you pay for entry to the Cathedral, you also gain entry to the Convent. This peaceful monastery contains beautiful gardens and is undergoing restorations. It features small exhibits on the history of Menorca, Ciutadella, and the Civil War. Not too busy, but there is plenty to explore and learn, as well as take some time out in the gardens. Contains a wonderful little art gallery. }} *{{listing | type=see | name=Líthica | alt=Pedreres de s'Hostal | url=http://www.lithica.es/ | email= | address=Camí Vell | lat=40.004489 | long=3.867440 | directions=from Ciutadella, follow signs for the RC-2 then turn right at the first roundabout and then immediately turn right | phone=+34 971 48 15 78 | tollfree= | hours=09:30-sunset | price=€5/person | lastedit=2018-06-09 | content=This is a working Sandstone quarry that has been opened up to the public. A walk around the grounds allows for a chance to see the ancient methods of mining this rock, and then the more modern, imposing approach. Beautiful gardens and a sandstone maze make this a fun place to explore for everyone. There are even concerts held here during summer in the quarry. A gift shop offers cool drinks (needed after the long walks in the sun!) and decorated pieces of sandstone to take away. It is easy to spend 3 hours or more here. }} *{{listing | type=see | name=Naveta des Toudons | alt=Naveta of Es Tudons | url= | email= | address=Carretera Mao-Ciutadella | lat=40.003083 | long=3.891605 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Naveta d'Es Tudons | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-23 | content=This remarkable stone structure is a megalithic burial tomb, constructed around 1200 - 750 BC. It is a fantastic experience to go and stand and peer into this tomb that contained 100 skeletons, some of which are on display in [[Maó]]. The monument resembles an upside-down boat and is a fascinating part of Menorcan history. It is well worth a visit, and is a very short drive out of Ciutadella, on the main road. Walking to it takes around an hour. It is even visible briefly from the ME-1 road. }} ==Do== *'''Horseback riding''' along the Cami de Cavalls: From the city it is interesting to hire one of these relaxing group horseback rides along some part of the "Cami de Cavalls" or Camino de Caballos, an old road that surrounds the entire island. *'''Bathing on Algaiarens beach''': This nearby beach is one of the most beautiful on the island. ===Festivals === *'''Summer Music Festival''': Every year this excellent Festival de Música d'Estiu is held in Ciutadella. *'''Processó des Tres Tocs.''' On January 17th every year: procession in memory of the capture of the city by King Alfonso III. *'''Festes de Sant Joan.''' Known throughout Spain equestrian games on St. John's Day (June 24th). ==Buy== *'''Fish and meat market''', at the Plaça de la Llibertat. Here you can get different types of the local specialty, the Menorcan queso (cheese). ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Alfons Hotel | alt= | url=https://alfonshotel.com/ | email= | address=Camí de Maó 53 | lat=40.0032 | long=3.8431 | directions= | phone=+34 971 380150 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €100 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Friendly clean place 500 m from centre, free parking available. }} * {{sleep | name=Ferrer Skyline | alt= | url=https://www.ferrerhotels.com/es/aparthotel-skyline/ | email= | address=Passeig de Sant Nicolau 171 | lat=39.9964 | long=3.8267 | directions= | phone=+34 971 483563 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double €90 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Spacious aparthotel 1 km west of centre. }} ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Menorca}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|40.000876|3.836125}} q3culk6h78duk7bv6fcxxgd4efd10cl 0 168993 5091153 4874427 2025-07-11T02:14:38Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Sleep */ typo 5091153 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Soe''' is a city in [[West Timor]]. == Understand == Soe is the capital of the South Central Timor regency. Due to its pronunciation (so-E), sometime it is written as "SoE". It is a highland area with an altitude of 800m, so the climate is cooler than the surrounding coastal Timor area. Travelers use this town is the base for day trips to explore the area. It is also possible to stay in the smaller towns around Soe nearby the villages. If you intend to visit the traditional villages, it is recommended to get a local guide, as there are numerous customs to follow and language remains a barrier (even if you speak [[Bahasa Indonesia]]). The most common customs is that you need to be introduced to the village chief and bring betel nuts as gifts. A day trip usually costs Rp1,000,000 (as of Dec 2018). Some guides will give you an all-inclusive rate (incl. donation to the village for entrance), but it is recommended to give the donation directly to the village chief (instead of through the guide) to make sure the village received the full intended amount. The donation and betel nuts should sum up to around Rp100,000 (as of Dec 2018). You can purchase betel fruits / nuts around town. == Get in == '''From [[Kupang]]''': 3 hours. Trip started from Oesapa "bus stop" (it's a street side), where you can find "Travel" shared car for Rp50,000 or public bus for Rp30,000 (Bus to Kefamenanu will pass by Soe too, ask the bus assistant). Ask your accommodations for details (as of Dec 2018). If you are taking the bus, you can alight along the main street of Soe (Jln. Ahmad Yani or Jln. Gajah Mada). == Get around == {{Mapframe|-9.859749|124.277198|zoom=14}} ''Bemo'' is running through the city, just tell your destination to the assistant. A ride per person costs Rp3,000 (as of Dec 2018). Many of the drivers and assistants are teenagers (don't be surprised). ''Ojek'' is on the standby on the road side. A ride within town should be Rp5,000-10,000 (as of Dec 2018). == See == You can check with the '''Soe Tourist Office''' at Jln. Dipenogoro (closed on Saturday and Sunday) to get information on the local sights and contacts to tour guides. There are many tour / travel offices in the area, but they are mainly serving airline booking. * Fort None (Benteng None) * Traditional Village in Boti *Traditional Village in Fatumnasi * Oehala Waterfall * Weekly Market: There are different markets each day located around the region, your guide would know where to go on the day of your trip. The biggest three are: ** Tuesday: Oenlassi Market ** Wednesday: Niki Niki Market ** Thursday: Ayotupas Market == Do == == Buy == == Eat == There are many eating options on the main street of Soe, mostly offers ''bakso'' (great for the chilly night). * {{eat|name=RM Depot Remaja|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.859596|long=124.263536|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=Rp25,000-35,000|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=One of the popular place to have se'i babi. Offers other menu selection too. A must-visit when you are in Soe.}} * {{eat|name=RM Larisa|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.859646|long=124.263885|directions=nearby RM Depot Remaja|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=a more well-kept eatery, also offer se'i babi.}} * {{eat | name=Depot Bintang | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-9.86137 | long=124.270769 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Average. Rp25,000 | lastedit=2018-12-16 | content=Offering se'i babi, babi macao, satay, as well as other vegetable dishes. }} * {{eat|name=Warung Tiga Putri|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.861708|long=124.272592|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=Rp10,000-20,000|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=This humble place on the street side provides great cheap eats. Don't let the look deceived you. Serves gado-gado, bakso, and various rice dishes.}} == Drink == == Sleep == * {{sleep|name=Hotel Bahagia|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.865140|long=124.281297|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp160,000 and up|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=The once default hotel to stay for travelers. Often mistaken with the newer and pricier 'Hotel Bahagia Dua', creating disappointment in terms of price / quality between them.}} * {{sleep|name=Hotel Bahagia Dua|alt=(Hotel Bahagia II)|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.859286|long=124.261936|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp220,000 standard room; Rp350,000 VIP room.|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=The new Hotel Bahagia (same owner, different management), it is newly built and of course, pricier than the original.}} * {{sleep|name=Hotel Timor Megah|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.859426|long=124.268942|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp250,000 standard room; Rp350,000 VIP room|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=A new big hotel. generous buffet breakfast. Same owner with the Timor Megah store, located 300m away. Wi-Fi is not so good at the standard room.}} * {{sleep|name=Hotel Gajah Mada|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.860123|long=124.270786|directions=Entrance on the small road off the main road. The first building is their hall. Walk further in for the reception.|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp250,000 - Rp350,000|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=a three-floor hotel building, quite new.}} * {{sleep|name=Hotel Sejati|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jln. Ahmad Yani|lat=-9.861887|long=124.273005|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp110,000 for standard room; Rp250,000 for deluxe room.|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=a budget-friendly place to stay. obviously with basic facilities. No Wi-Fi.}} == Go next == As other towns, you can wait on the side of the town's main road, wave on the bus and hop on to it. * [[Kefamenanu]], 3 hours. direction Kefamenanu or Atambua, Rp25,000 (as of Dec 2018). * [[Kupang]], 3 hours. Rp30,000 (as of Dec 2018). {{IsPartOf|West Timor}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|-9.860471|124.2771|zoom=13}} ddr54wuth99gqlcbt5o21sbn439hj07 5091185 5091153 2025-07-11T04:44:09Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Considering the lastedit of 2018, not a new hotel anymore. 5091185 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Soe''' is a city in [[West Timor]]. == Understand == Soe is the capital of the South Central Timor regency. Due to its pronunciation (so-E), sometime it is written as "SoE". It is a highland area with an altitude of 800m, so the climate is cooler than the surrounding coastal Timor area. Travelers use this town is the base for day trips to explore the area. It is also possible to stay in the smaller towns around Soe nearby the villages. If you intend to visit the traditional villages, it is recommended to get a local guide, as there are numerous customs to follow and language remains a barrier (even if you speak [[Bahasa Indonesia]]). The most common customs is that you need to be introduced to the village chief and bring betel nuts as gifts. A day trip usually costs Rp1,000,000 (as of Dec 2018). Some guides will give you an all-inclusive rate (incl. donation to the village for entrance), but it is recommended to give the donation directly to the village chief (instead of through the guide) to make sure the village received the full intended amount. The donation and betel nuts should sum up to around Rp100,000 (as of Dec 2018). You can purchase betel fruits / nuts around town. == Get in == '''From [[Kupang]]''': 3 hours. Trip started from Oesapa "bus stop" (it's a street side), where you can find "Travel" shared car for Rp50,000 or public bus for Rp30,000 (Bus to Kefamenanu will pass by Soe too, ask the bus assistant). Ask your accommodations for details (as of Dec 2018). If you are taking the bus, you can alight along the main street of Soe (Jln. Ahmad Yani or Jln. Gajah Mada). == Get around == {{Mapframe|-9.859749|124.277198|zoom=14}} ''Bemo'' is running through the city, just tell your destination to the assistant. A ride per person costs Rp3,000 (as of Dec 2018). Many of the drivers and assistants are teenagers (don't be surprised). ''Ojek'' is on the standby on the road side. A ride within town should be Rp5,000-10,000 (as of Dec 2018). == See == You can check with the '''Soe Tourist Office''' at Jln. Dipenogoro (closed on Saturday and Sunday) to get information on the local sights and contacts to tour guides. There are many tour / travel offices in the area, but they are mainly serving airline booking. * Fort None (Benteng None) * Traditional Village in Boti *Traditional Village in Fatumnasi * Oehala Waterfall * Weekly Market: There are different markets each day located around the region, your guide would know where to go on the day of your trip. The biggest three are: ** Tuesday: Oenlassi Market ** Wednesday: Niki Niki Market ** Thursday: Ayotupas Market == Do == == Buy == == Eat == There are many eating options on the main street of Soe, mostly offers ''bakso'' (great for the chilly night). * {{eat|name=RM Depot Remaja|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.859596|long=124.263536|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=Rp25,000-35,000|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=One of the popular place to have se'i babi. Offers other menu selection too. A must-visit when you are in Soe.}} * {{eat|name=RM Larisa|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.859646|long=124.263885|directions=nearby RM Depot Remaja|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=a more well-kept eatery, also offer se'i babi.}} * {{eat | name=Depot Bintang | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-9.86137 | long=124.270769 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Average. Rp25,000 | lastedit=2018-12-16 | content=Offering se'i babi, babi macao, satay, as well as other vegetable dishes. }} * {{eat|name=Warung Tiga Putri|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.861708|long=124.272592|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=Rp10,000-20,000|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=This humble place on the street side provides great cheap eats. Don't let the look deceived you. Serves gado-gado, bakso, and various rice dishes.}} == Drink == == Sleep == * {{sleep|name=Hotel Bahagia|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.865140|long=124.281297|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp160,000 and up|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=The once default hotel to stay for travelers. Often mistaken with the newer and pricier 'Hotel Bahagia Dua', creating disappointment in terms of price / quality between them.}} * {{sleep|name=Hotel Bahagia Dua|alt=(Hotel Bahagia II)|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.859286|long=124.261936|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp220,000 standard room; Rp350,000 VIP room.|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=The new Hotel Bahagia (same owner, different management), it is newly built and of course, pricier than the original.}} * {{sleep|name=Hotel Timor Megah|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.859426|long=124.268942|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp250,000 standard room; Rp350,000 VIP room|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=A big hotel that provides a generous buffet breakfast. Same owner as the Timor Megah store, 300 m away. Wi-Fi is not so good in the standard room.}} * {{sleep|name=Hotel Gajah Mada|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.860123|long=124.270786|directions=Entrance on the small road off the main road. The first building is their hall. Walk further in for the reception.|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp250,000 - Rp350,000|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=a three-floor hotel building, quite new.}} * {{sleep|name=Hotel Sejati|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jln. Ahmad Yani|lat=-9.861887|long=124.273005|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp110,000 for standard room; Rp250,000 for deluxe room.|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=a budget-friendly place to stay. obviously with basic facilities. No Wi-Fi.}} == Go next == As other towns, you can wait on the side of the town's main road, wave on the bus and hop on to it. * [[Kefamenanu]], 3 hours. direction Kefamenanu or Atambua, Rp25,000 (as of Dec 2018). * [[Kupang]], 3 hours. Rp30,000 (as of Dec 2018). {{IsPartOf|West Timor}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|-9.860471|124.2771|zoom=13}} 03jalt5ujmd7kdegrx188p1zwnhqn23 5091186 5091185 2025-07-11T04:47:39Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* Sleep */ All as of 2018: see https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Soe&diff=3672303&oldid=3672282. Corrected capitalization, etc. 5091186 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Soe''' is a city in [[West Timor]]. == Understand == Soe is the capital of the South Central Timor regency. Due to its pronunciation (so-E), sometime it is written as "SoE". It is a highland area with an altitude of 800m, so the climate is cooler than the surrounding coastal Timor area. Travelers use this town is the base for day trips to explore the area. It is also possible to stay in the smaller towns around Soe nearby the villages. If you intend to visit the traditional villages, it is recommended to get a local guide, as there are numerous customs to follow and language remains a barrier (even if you speak [[Bahasa Indonesia]]). The most common customs is that you need to be introduced to the village chief and bring betel nuts as gifts. A day trip usually costs Rp1,000,000 (as of Dec 2018). Some guides will give you an all-inclusive rate (incl. donation to the village for entrance), but it is recommended to give the donation directly to the village chief (instead of through the guide) to make sure the village received the full intended amount. The donation and betel nuts should sum up to around Rp100,000 (as of Dec 2018). You can purchase betel fruits / nuts around town. == Get in == '''From [[Kupang]]''': 3 hours. Trip started from Oesapa "bus stop" (it's a street side), where you can find "Travel" shared car for Rp50,000 or public bus for Rp30,000 (Bus to Kefamenanu will pass by Soe too, ask the bus assistant). Ask your accommodations for details (as of Dec 2018). If you are taking the bus, you can alight along the main street of Soe (Jln. Ahmad Yani or Jln. Gajah Mada). == Get around == {{Mapframe|-9.859749|124.277198|zoom=14}} ''Bemo'' is running through the city, just tell your destination to the assistant. A ride per person costs Rp3,000 (as of Dec 2018). Many of the drivers and assistants are teenagers (don't be surprised). ''Ojek'' is on the standby on the road side. A ride within town should be Rp5,000-10,000 (as of Dec 2018). == See == You can check with the '''Soe Tourist Office''' at Jln. Dipenogoro (closed on Saturday and Sunday) to get information on the local sights and contacts to tour guides. There are many tour / travel offices in the area, but they are mainly serving airline booking. * Fort None (Benteng None) * Traditional Village in Boti *Traditional Village in Fatumnasi * Oehala Waterfall * Weekly Market: There are different markets each day located around the region, your guide would know where to go on the day of your trip. The biggest three are: ** Tuesday: Oenlassi Market ** Wednesday: Niki Niki Market ** Thursday: Ayotupas Market == Do == == Buy == == Eat == There are many eating options on the main street of Soe, mostly offers ''bakso'' (great for the chilly night). * {{eat|name=RM Depot Remaja|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.859596|long=124.263536|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=Rp25,000-35,000|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=One of the popular place to have se'i babi. Offers other menu selection too. A must-visit when you are in Soe.}} * {{eat|name=RM Larisa|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.859646|long=124.263885|directions=nearby RM Depot Remaja|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=a more well-kept eatery, also offer se'i babi.}} * {{eat | name=Depot Bintang | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-9.86137 | long=124.270769 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Average. Rp25,000 | lastedit=2018-12-16 | content=Offering se'i babi, babi macao, satay, as well as other vegetable dishes. }} * {{eat|name=Warung Tiga Putri|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.861708|long=124.272592|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=Rp10,000-20,000|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=This humble place on the street side provides great cheap eats. Don't let the look deceived you. Serves gado-gado, bakso, and various rice dishes.}} == Drink == == Sleep == * {{sleep|name=Hotel Bahagia|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.865140|long=124.281297|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp160,000 and up|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=The once default hotel to stay for travelers. Often mistaken with the newer and pricier 'Hotel Bahagia Dua', creating disappointment in terms of price / quality between them.}} * {{sleep|name=Hotel Bahagia Dua|alt=(Hotel Bahagia II)|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.859286|long=124.261936|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp220,000 standard room; Rp350,000 VIP room.|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=The newer Hotel Bahagia (same owner, different management) is pricier than the original.}} * {{sleep|name=Hotel Timor Megah|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.859426|long=124.268942|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp250,000 standard room; Rp350,000 VIP room|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=A big hotel that provides a generous buffet breakfast. Same owner as the Timor Megah store, 300 m away. Wi-Fi is not so good in the standard room.}} * {{sleep|name=Hotel Gajah Mada|alt=|url=|email=|address=|lat=-9.860123|long=124.270786|directions=Entrance on the small road off the main road. The first building is their hall. Walk further in for the reception.|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp250,000 - Rp350,000|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=A three-floor hotel building, quite new as of 2018.}} * {{sleep|name=Hotel Sejati|alt=|url=|email=|address=Jln. Ahmad Yani|lat=-9.861887|long=124.273005|directions=|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|checkin=|checkout=|price=Rp110,000 for standard room; Rp250,000 for deluxe room.|lastedit=2018-12-16|content=A budget-friendly place to stay with basic facilities. No Wi-Fi.}} == Go next == As other towns, you can wait on the side of the town's main road, wave on the bus and hop on to it. * [[Kefamenanu]], 3 hours. direction Kefamenanu or Atambua, Rp25,000 (as of Dec 2018). * [[Kupang]], 3 hours. Rp30,000 (as of Dec 2018). {{IsPartOf|West Timor}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|-9.860471|124.2771|zoom=13}} q3n55ue5ys6kxvalj7kg761gz5dung7 0 169045 5090925 5081007 2025-07-10T15:30:32Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Do */ event > 2025 5090925 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Nairn banner Harbour.jpg}} '''Nairn''' (Gaelic ''Inbhir Narann'') is a seaside resort east of Inverness in [[The Great Glen and Strathspey]] Region of Highland Scotland. In 2020 it had a population of 10,190. == Understand == [[File:The A96 crosses the River Nairn - geograph.org.uk - 3516886.jpg | thumb | 300px | A96 bridge over the River Nairn ]] :: "At Nairn we may fix the verge of the Highlands; for here I first saw peat fires, and first heard the Erse language." :: — Samuel Johnson, ''A Journey to the Western Isles of Scotland'' (1775) James VI had earlier remarked on a visit of 1589 that Nairn High street was "sae lang that the inhabitants of the one end did not understand the language spoken at the other" - though that would simply reflect property prices. The town is in a fertile region on the road from Inverness towards Aberdeen, and grew from 1820 when a fishing harbour was constructed. By 1861 Nairn was also connected to the railway network, and became a seaside resort, and still is. It was the county town of Nairnshire, if anyone could say where that was - until 1889 there were many exclaves elsewhere, until local government boundaries were reformed. The county was in turn subsumed into Highland Region in 1975. Charlie Chaplin often took his summer holidays in Nairn. Willie Whitelaw, UK deputy Prime Minister 1979-88, was born in Nairn, and the actress Tilda Swinton came to live here. == Get in == {{mapframe | 57.585 | -3.870 | height=500 | width=550 | zoom=14 }} Trains run every hour or two from [[Inverness]], taking 20 min via the airport ({{IATA|INV}}) to Nairn. They continue to [[Forres]], [[Elgin]], Keith, [[Huntly (Scotland) | Huntly]], Inverurie, Dyce and [[Aberdeen]]. {{marker | type=go | name=Nairn railway station | lat=57.5803 | long=-3.8722 }} is just south of town centre. There's a staffed ticket office and machines, and a cafe and waiting room with toilets. Platform 1 northside towards Inverness has step-free access. Platform 2 for Aberdeen is via the footbridge, no lift, or lump across rough ground from Balblair Rd southside. [https://www.stagecoachbus.com/ Stagecoach] Bus 10 runs every 30 min from Inverness, taking 40 min to Nairn and continuing to Forres and Elgin. There alternate buses turn back, with an hourly service trundling cross-country through Fochabers, Keith, Huntly and Inverurie to Aberdeen. By road follow A96: Nairn is 17 miles from Inverness and 78 miles from Aberdeen. == Get around == The town is compact and Bus 10 will get you along A96. Bus 20 circles M-F every hour or so between town centre, Sainsbury's and the hospital. You need your own wheels to reach Fort George. Taxi operators are [http://nairntaxis.com/ Nairn Taxis] ({{phone|+44 1667 451111}}) and ATB ({{phone|+44 1667 455757}}). [https://www.hub.greenhive.co.uk/e-bike Green Hive] is a community scheme to hire e-bikes and trailers, pay as you go. == See == * {{see | name=Nairn Museum | alt= | url=http://www.nairnmuseum.co.uk/ | email= | address=Viewfield Drive IV12 4EE | lat=57.586 | long=-3.8742 | directions= | phone=+44 1667 456791 | tollfree= | hours=Apr-Oct: M-F 10AM-4PM, Sa 10AM-1PM | price=Adult £4, conc or child free | lastedit=2022-08-12 | content=Child-friendly museum and local archive. }} * {{see | name=Fort George | alt= | url=https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/fort-george/ | email= | address=Ardesier IV2 7TE | lat=57.5839 | long=-4.0703 | directions= | phone=+44 1667 460232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily Apr-Sep: 9:30AM-5:30PM, Oct-Mar: 10AM-4PM | price=Adult £9.50, conc £7.50, child £5.50 | wikipedia=Fort George, Highland | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-12 | content=Large star-pattern fortress built in the aftermath of the 1745 rebellion, to ensure no repetition (which its predecessor in Inverness had lamentably failed to achieve). It's been in continuous use since as an army base, and is therefore in good condition, but as the MoD don't expect further Jacobite attack it's expected to close in 2032. The ramparts are almost a mile long and there's a regimental museum, an arsenal of old weapons, chapel and military dog cemetery. }} * '''Rait Castle''' two miles south of Nairn is a 13th-century ruin. Only if you happen to be passing along the road to Cawdor, it's not worth a special trip. * {{marker | name=Cawdor Castle | type=see | lat=57.527 | long=-3.923 }}: see [[Culloden]] for this castle associated with Macbeth. == Do == [[File:Rait Castle.jpg | thumb | 300px | Rait Castle ]] * '''Beaches:''' the east beach is long and sandy, west beach is narrower and more stony. * '''[https://nairncc.co.uk/ Nairn Community & Arts Centre]''' contains the Culbin Theatre and other spaces. It's on King St near the museum. * '''[https://www.nairnlittletheatre.org.uk/ Little Theatre]''' is further east along King St. * '''Golf:''' [https://www.nairngolfclub.co.uk/ Nairn GC] is west side of town, and [https://nairndunbar.com/ Nairn-Dunbar] is east. * '''Football:''' [https://nairncountyfc.co.uk/ Nairn County] play soccer in the Highland League, Scotland's fifth tier. Their home ground is Balblair (capacity 2250) just south of the railway station. * '''[https://cinemanairn.co.uk/ Cinema Nairn]''' have screenings. They may restart the annual film festival in mid-Feb. * '''Jazz Nairn''' hosts regular events. * '''[https://www.nairnshow.org.uk/ Nairn Agricultural Show]''' is held at Davidson Park on Grantown Road, with the next on Sa 26 July 2025. * '''[https://www.nairnhighlandgames.com/ Nairn Highland Games]''' are held on The Links, with the next on Sa 16 Aug 2025. * '''[https://www.nairnfestival.co.uk/ Nairn Book & Arts Festival]''' is held in town at the end of August, with some events at Cawdor Castle towards [[Culloden]]. The next is 30 Aug - 7 Sept 2025. == Buy == Sainsbury's is the main store, east ege of town on A96. It's open daily 8AM-10PM and has a filling station. == Eat == * '''High Street''' has [https://royalbengalnairn.co.uk/ Royal Bengal], Mr Tan, Thai Cottage, Lorenzo, Dolphin Fish & Chips, [https://ozzyalicatering.co.uk/ Ozzy's], Nairn Tandoori, Fusion Cafe and Lucky House. * '''Strathnairn Beach Cafe''' is down Marine Rd, open F-W 10AM-4:30PM. == Drink == * Town centre has The Play House, Uncle Bob's, [https://www.theclassroombistro.com/ Classroom Bistro] and Albert Hotel. == Sleep == [[File:Fort George officer quarters.JPG | thumb | 300px | Fort George officer quarters ]] * '''B&Bs''' and small hotels are along Marine Rd turning into Seafield St. They include [https://invernairne.co.uk/ Invernairne], Clubhouse Hotel, [https://cawdorhousenairn.co.uk/ Cawdor House], Muthu Newton (below), [https://westendnairn.co.uk/ West End]{{Dead link|date=June 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}, Wetherby House and [https://sunnybraenairn.co.uk/ Sunny Brae]. * {{sleep | name=Nairn Camping and Caravanning Club Site | alt= | url=https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/campsites/uk/morayshire/inverness/nairn-camping-and-caravanning-club-site/ | email= | address=Delnies Wood, Nairn IV12 5NX | lat=57.5722 | long=-3.9286 | directions=2 miles west of Nairn | phone=+44 1677 455281 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Tent £12 | lastedit=2022-08-12 | content=Bosky friendly site open year-round, good facilities, some noise from busy A96. }} * {{sleep | name=Golf View | alt= | url=https://www.crerarhotels.com/golf-view-hotel-spa/ | email= | address=63 Seabank Rd, Nairn IV12 4HD | lat=57.5878 | long=-3.8879 | directions= | phone=+44 1677 452301 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double from £340 | lastedit=2022-08-12 | content=Grand trad hotel, great reviews for comfort, the cuisine sometimes misses. }} * {{sleep | name=Muthu Newton Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.muthuhotelsmgm.com/muthu-newton-hotel | email= | address=Inverness Rd, Nairn IV12 4RX | lat=57.5842 | long=-3.8848 | directions= | phone=+44 1677 453144 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double £100 | lastedit=2022-11-02 | content=Upscale hotel in a converted 17th-century mansion, with conference centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Boath House | alt= | url=https://www.boath-house.com/ | email= | address=Auldearn, Nairn IV12 5TE | lat=57.580 | long=-3.808 | directions=2 miles east of Nairn | phone=+44 1677 454896 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=B&B double from £220 | lastedit=2020-05-23 | content=More like a miniature stately home than a country house, wonderful comfy place in parkland with great dining. }} == Connect == As of Aug 2022, Nairn and the A96 have 4G from all UK carriers, though with some dead spots out of town. 5G has not reached this area. == Go next == * [[Inverness]] is a pleasant Victorian city. * [[Culloden]] was where the Jacobite rebellion was crushed in 1746. * [[Forres]] east, where Macbeth encountered the witches, has ancient stones and a whisky distillery. {{geo | 57.586 | -3.869 | zoom=14}} {{usablecity}} {{isPartOf|The Great Glen and Strathspey}} 8c1gg2n11zhjfrn8c6a2ruovonuv4dx 0 171777 5091110 5010290 2025-07-11T00:53:19Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* By car */ Typo: duplication 5091110 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} [[file:Lighthouse DSC00780B - Balache Point Lighthouse & Cemetery (15533734745).jpg|thumb|right|Balache Point lighthouse & cemetery at Canso Canal in Port Hastings]] '''Port Hawkesbury''' is a town of 3,200 people (2016) on the southwestern end of [[Cape Breton Island]], on the north shore of the Strait of Canso. '''Port Hastings''' is an unincorporated community about {{km|7}} up Highway 104 from Port Hawkesbury. ==Understand== Port Hawkesbury was founded as Ship Harbour (after the harbour upon which it is located) and is largely a service centre for western Cape Breton Island with many of its residents working in large industries in an industrial park in the adjacent community of Point Tupper. The community is named after Admiral Sir Edward Hawke. Port Hastings is at the east end of the Canso Causeway, the link connecting Cape Breton Island with the mainland. It used to be known as Plaster Cove. * {{listing | type=listing | name=Port Hastings Provincial Visitor Information Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=96 Highway 4, Port Hastings | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content= }} ===History=== Port Hawkesbury built ships for the timber export trade in the early and mid 19th-century. Schooners and fishing boats were also built for the inshore and banks fishery. The port further developed in the 19th century when railway connections arrived. The construction of the Canso Causeway increased the shelter capacity of the deepwater port leading to further growth in shipping of bulk commodities and the establishment of several heavy industries such as the pulp mill. The Inverness and Richmond Railway was built from coal mines in Inverness to a loading dock at Point Tupper in 1901. With the opening of the Canso Causeway in 1955, Port Hastings became a railway junction after the Truro-Sydney mainline of Canadian National Railways (CNR) was diverted from the railcar ferry terminals at Mulgrave and Point Tupper. The CNR line to Inverness was abandoned in the 1980s, although the Truro-Sydney mainline continues to operate as the Cape Breton and Central Nova Scotia Railway. ===Climate=== Precipitation is high, with the fall and winter being the wettest time of year and summer being the driest. Winters are cold, snowy and stormy with frequent snowstorms. Summer is the most pleasant time of year, with significantly less precipitation and warm temperatures. ==Get in== === By car === Port Hastings is the location of the interchange between Highway 104 and Highway 105, which is located east of the Canso Causeway., which separate the mainland on the west side of the causeway from Cape Breton on the east side of the causeway. Traffic west of Port Hastings on Highway 104 and traffic east of Port Hastings on Highway 105 are on the [[Trans-Canada Highway]]. Highway 105 terminates at Highway 104, while Highway 104 continues in Cape Breton on the south side of Cape Breton. The Port Hastings Rotary traffic circle is an important interchange between Highway 104, Highway 105, Trunk 19 and Trunk 4 several hundred metres east of the Canso Canal Bridge. There are several motels and gas stations and a tourist information centre at the traffic circle. === By bus === {{listing|name=Maritime Bus|alt=|url=https://www.maritimebus.com/|email=info@maritimebus.com|address=|lat=|long=|directions=|phone=|tollfree=+1-800-575-1807|hours=|price=|lastedit=2022-04-23|content=Operates an inter-regional bus service between destinations in [[Nova Scotia]], [[New Brunswick]], and [[Prince Edward Island]]. <!-- One route enters [[Quebec]] (suspended as of June 2022). -->}} * Operates a route between [[Halifax]] and [[Sydney (Nova Scotia)|Sydney]] including stops in [[Dartmouth (Nova Scotia)|Dartmouth]], Halifax Airport, [[Truro (Nova Scotia)|Truro]], [[New Glasgow (Nova Scotia)|New Glasgow]], [[Antigonish]], Port Hawkesbury, and [[North Sydney (Nova Scotia)|North Sydney]]. * Travel to Port Hawkesbury from the following destinations involving same day transfers is as follows: ** From [[Moncton]] with a transfer in [[Truro (Nova Scotia)|Truro]]. ** From [[Charlottetown]] with transfers in [[Amherst (Nova Scotia)|Amherst]] and in Truro. ** From [[Bathurst (New Brunswick)|Bathurst]] , [[Campbellton]], [[Edmundston]], [[Fredericton]], [[Miramichi]], and [[Saint John]] with transfers in Moncton and Truro. ==Get around== {{mapframe}} ==See== * {{see | name= Point Tupper Heritage Museum | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/ThePointTupperHeritageAssociation/ | email= | address=165 Henry Paint St, | lat=45.60699 | long=-61.36252 | directions= | phone=+1 902 625-0269 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content= }} * {{see | name=Port Hastings Historical Society Museum and Archives | alt= | url= | email= | address=24 Highway 19, Port Hastings | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 902 625-1295 | tollfree= | hours=M-F 10AM-4PM, Sa Su noon-4PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content=It documents local history, including that of the Canso Causeway. }} * {{see | name=Balache Point Lighthouse | alt= | url=https://m.facebook.com/PortHastingsMuseum/?ref=br_rs | email= | address=Canso Causway | lat=45.64799 | long=-61.41455 | directions=By the b | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q26261141 | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content=An active lighthouse located next to the Canso Canal, near Port Hastings. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Fleur-de-Lis Tea Room and Dining Room | alt= | url= http://www.fdltearoom.ca/m/#./about-us| email= | address=14-634 Reeves St, Port Hawkesbury | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 902-625-2566 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 7AM-7PM, Su 10AM-2PM | price=Mains $8-17 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content=Seafood, pasta, Acadian specialties, hot sandwiches and dinners. }} * {{eat | name=Cape Breton Country Kitchen | alt= | url= | email= | address=388 Highway 4, Port Hawkesbury | lat= 45.64088 | long=-61.39012 | directions= | phone=+1 902-625-2480 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 6:30AM-9PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content=$6 breakfast special. }} * {{eat | name=Cpt. Paulie's Sports Bar & Grill | alt= | url= | email= | address=634 Reeves St, Port Hawkesbury | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 902-625-0943 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 11AM-10PM, Su noon-9PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Mariner Dining Room | alt= | url=https://www.covemotel.com/restaurant | email= | address=298 D - 31 Rd, Auld's Cove | lat=45.65498 | long=-61.43827 | directions= | phone= +1 902-747-2700 | tollfree= | hours=Summer: daily 8AM-9PM | price=Lunch specials $12-16, dinner mains $14-35 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content=Seafood, pasta, and steak with a beautiful, panoramic view of the Strait of Canso. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Papa's Pub & Eatery | alt= | url=https://www.papaspubandeatery.ca/ | email= | address=789 Reeves St, Port Hawkesbury | lat=45.61472 | long=-61.34934 | directions= | phone=+1 902-625-3270 | tollfree= | hours= Daily 10AM-10PM | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content=Pub with pizza and pub food. }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Harbourview B&B and Motel | alt= | url=https://www.harbourviewbb.com/ | email= | address=209 Granville St, Port Hawkesbury | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From $100 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content=Continental breakfast included. Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Hearthstone Inn Port Hawkesbury | alt= | url=https://www.hearthstonehospitality.ca/ | email= | address= 388 Highway 4, Port Hawkesbury | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 902 625-2480 | tollfree= +1-800-422-8025 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From $125 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content=26 rooms with microwaves and fridges. Free Wi-Fi an on-site restaurant. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Maritime Inn Port Hawkesbury | alt= | url=https://www.maritimeinns.com/maritime-inn-port-hawkesbury | email= | address=717 Reeves St, Port Hawkesbury | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= +1-888-662-7484 | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From $175 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content=Restaurant on site, pool, fitness centre, bar/lounge, pets allowed, business centre. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Cove Motel | alt= | url=https://www.covemotel.com/ | email= | address=Highway 104 Auld's Cove, Canso Causeway, Port Hastings | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 902 747-2700 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From $100 | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-05-25 | content=Rooms and pet-friendly cabins. }} ==Connect== ==Go next== {{routebox | placename=Port Hastings | image1=Nova Scotia Highway 104 (TCH).svg | imagesize1=22 | image1a=Nova Scotia 104.svg | link1=Trans-Canada Highway | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Truro (Nova Scotia)|Truro]] | minorl1=[[Antigonish]] ← Canso Causeway | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Sydney (Nova Scotia)|Sydney]] | minorr1='''Port Hawkesbury''' | image2=Nova Scotia Highway 105 (TCH).svg | link2=Trans-Canada Highway | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=END | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[North Sydney (Nova Scotia)|North Sydney]] | minorr2=[[Baddeck]] | image3=Nova Scotia 4.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=W | majorl3=[[Truro (Nova Scotia)|Truro]] | minorl3=[[Antigonish]] ← Jct [[File:Nova Scotia 16.svg|18px|link=]] [[Guysborough|E]] ← Canso Causeway | directionr3=E | majorr3=[[Sydney (Nova Scotia)|Sydney]] | minorr3='''Port Hawkesbury''' }} {{routebox | placename=Port Hawkesbury | image1=Nova Scotia 104.svg | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Truro (Nova Scotia)|Truro]] | minorl1='''Port Hastings''' | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Sydney (Nova Scotia)|Sydney]] via [[File:Nova Scotia 4.svg|18px|link=]] | minorr1=[[St. Peter's]] | image2=Nova Scotia 4.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=W | majorl2=[[Truro (Nova Scotia)|Truro]] | minorl2='''Port Hastings''' | directionr2=E | majorr2=[[Sydney (Nova Scotia)|Sydney]] | minorr2=[[St. Peter's]] }} {{IsPartOf|Cape Breton Island}} {{Usablecity}} {{geo|45.646383|-61.403776}} pw4xhqpkxy2yzzu7aihj611xwupvqtz 0 172836 5091367 5083590 2025-07-11T11:21:58Z Eliclax 2258029 Fix typo "cycling (h)as a hobby" 5091367 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Cycling China Banner.jpg}} {{CyclingTopics}} [[File:Mobikes_in_Huangzhou,_Huanggang,_Hubei,_China_3.jpg|thumb|A row of Mobike dockless bikes]] '''Bicycles''' (自行车 ''zìxíngchē'') were once the most common form of transportation in China, but has declined as they were seen as a symbol of poverty, and locals upgraded to using motor vehicles instead. However, as of the 2020s, cycling as a hobby is increasing in popularity among young middle class Chinese, and many cities have built cycling infrastructure to cater to that demographic. There are two major '''dangers for cyclists''' in [[China]]: * '''Motor traffic'''; cars and motorcycles frequently pull out without any warning, the specified bicycle lanes are often occupied by cars. Turning right usually does not require waiting for traffic lights, so conflicts may arise between cars turning right and bicycles going straight. See the more extensive comment at [[Driving in China]]. * '''Bicycle theft is rampant''' throughout cities in China, though the situation has improved somewhat with the widespread installation of CCTVs. Observe how other people park their bikes. In some places you can still see local people casually parking their bikes, but in many cities, people tend to lock it inside restaurants and internet cafes. Some hotels have dedicated parking lots, and it's usually safer for parking. Some local people also intentionally buy a second-hand, old, ugly bikes so that they won't tempt a thief. If possible, try to find a bike park that is monitored by CCTVs, as that will make it easier for police to recover your bike should it get stolen. Bicycle repair shops are frequent apparently anywhere in cities and rural areas; non-Chinese speaking tourists might find it a bit difficult, but you can just look for bikes and tires. For a quick fix to a sudden flat tire, there are also many people standing by along the road with a bowl of water and a repair kit ready. For special parts like disc brake, bring a spare if not using them in big cities. ==Cycling in cities== [[File:A woman riding DiDi Bike at Dongsi Shitiao (20200814164635).jpg|thumb|DiDi Bike is one of the main dockless rideshare bike operators]] The fairly new phenomenon of '''dockless rideshare bikes''' has dramatically reversed this decline, with both neat rows and messy piles now ubiquitous on the streets of China's larger cities &mdash; Shanghai alone has close to two million of them. These operate on a grab'n'go basis: you use your mobile phone to unlock any free bike, pay around ¥1 per 30 minutes while using them. In some cities, you must park your bike in specified parking areas or you'll be fined; in other cities, there are no such restrictions. As of 2024, China has three largest operators, called [https://www.didiglobal.com/travel-service/bike Didi] (滴滴青桔), [https://www.meituan.com/en-US/about-us Meituan] (美团单车, formerly Mobike) and [https://www.helloride-global.com HelloRide]{{Dead link|July 2024|May 2025|bot=InternetArchiveBot }} (哈啰单车). These operators have advantages in different regions, For example, HelloRide is more commonly used in Shanghai. Dockless bikes are built to last, meaning they're heavy, clunky and ungeared, but for travellers, they can be a cheap, convenient means of transport that is better than trying to deal with public transport for hours on end. These operators not only put bicycles, but also put e-bikes in some areas. Typically, larger cities only put bicycles (like Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan, Zhengzhou etc.), while smaller cities put e-bikes more (like Lanzhou, Guilin, Guiyang, Huai'an etc.). The charges for e-bikes are usually higher, such as ¥1 for 15 or 10 minutes, but there are also discounts for multiple rides. [[File:Hangzhou bike sharing station.jpg|thumb|right|Hangzhou bike sharing station adjacent to West Lake]] The [[Hangzhou]] Public Bicycle sharing system was the largest in the world in 2013, although it has since been overtaken by a number of dockless bike share operators. Now only a few people use them. Cities in northern China and the Yangtze River Delta region are generally more suitable for cycling. The urban areas of these cities generally have gentle lane gradients, and most roads have non-motorized lanes separated from motor lanes. Although these lanes are frequently occupied and most of the vehicles are e-bikes. In some areas like the Bund in Shanghai, there are a few roads where cycling is explicitly prohibited and only walking on the sidewalk is allowed. Cities in Guangdong Province (such as Guangzhou and Shenzhen) have few non-motorized lanes but still have many cyclists. Chongqing, Qingdao, and Dalian have almost no people riding bicycles due to their steep terrain, and there are also no shared bicycles. Xiamen Bicycle Skyway and Beijing's Bicycle Highway are very unique and convenient, they use viaducts so that bicycles do not need to avoid other vehicles even in urban areas. ​ ==Buying a bicycle== For something a little better, buying a bicycle is easy. Dahon, Merianda and Giant are three most popular quality brands and all cities have their distributors. Prices vary from as little as ¥150 to over ¥10,000. For a reasonably well-equipped mountain bike for riding to areas like Tibet, expect around ¥3,000-4,500 for a bike. Big cities like Shanghai and Beijing usually stock more upmarket bikes, but if you have very specific requirements, Hong Kong is still the last hope for buying them. ==Long-distance cycling== China is a vast country and it provides serious cyclists with challenges to bike across mountains and desert. It is possible to cycle across [[Tibet]], but foreigners are required to join a biking tour through a local travel agency in order to do so. Cycling into China through Tibet is possible provided you have arranged for it as part of your Tibet tour. See [[Karakoram Highway]] for one spectacular but difficult route. Companies such as Bike China and Intrepid Travel organize such tours for small groups. China National Highway 318 (G318, form Shanghai to the China-Nepal border) is one of the most popular long-distance cycling routes in China, especially the section from Chengdu to Lhasa, which is often called the Sichuan-Tibet Highway (川藏公路/川藏线). In addition, cycling routes around Qinghai Lake and Hainan Island are also popular choices. Cycling into mainland China from Hong Kong is not allowed, but you can bring a bicycle across the border. See the [[Hong Kong#By bicycle|Hong Kong]] article for more details. ===Traveling with a bicycle on a train, bus or ferry=== If you want to take your bicycle to another part of the country, you can ship (托运) it by train as checked baggage. The fee to ship a bicycle-sized item is usually much less than the cost of a passenger ticket for the same distance. This can be done at most major stations; the baggage department is usually somewhere near the main station building. Checked baggage does not travel on the same train with you (in fact, you don't even need to be traveling by train); it may take a few days to get to your destination. There is no need to disassemble the bike in any way, or to deflate the tires, to send it on as baggage. The staff at the baggage compartment may use some tarp and scotch tape to partially cover some parts of the bicycle for a bit of protection when traveling, or you may do that yourself using your own packing material. For more details on using checked luggage service, see [[High-speed rail in China#Checked luggage and parcel service]]. A foldable bicycle can be taken with you as carry-on luggage on most trains; however, you may be asked to put it into a bag, so make sure to have a big enough bag for a folded bicycle to fit in! With a typical hard bunk or soft bunk ticket, one can easily put a folded bike into one's compartment's luggage space (which is between the car's roof and the ceiling of the car's corridor, and is accessible from the compartment itself). On a high-speed rail line, some cars have convenient luggage space near the door, where a folded bike can easily fit; others don't, so storing the bike without inconveniencing oneself and fellow passengers may be somewhat problematic. Regional and long-distance buses have luggage space under their floor. One can sometimes see people transporting items as large as a motorcycle, so if the bus is not very full, and does not carry too much passenger luggage already, it may sometimes be possible to put even a regular (not folding) bike there; one may need to negotiate with the driver. There is, of course, no problem taking a bicycle on a ferry that's meant to accommodate both passengers and vehicles; but even a passenger-only ferry would often allow bicycles. Inquire at the terminal, or watch what other passengers are doing. {{PartOfTopic|Cycling}} {{outlinetopic}} d8hlb3ez7owambh4tt5ae41qfle4vxg 0 173849 5091125 5059510 2025-07-11T01:25:44Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Asia */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091125 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Age of Discovery Banner.jpg}} The '''Age of Discovery''', also known as the '''Age of Exploration''', was the period from the 15th century to the late 18th, when Europeans set sail to discover and explore other lands. It also marked the beginning of European colonialism and the start of the Mercantilist Age, as well as the beginning of globalization. While the European explorers did discover many uninhabited islands, for the most part they were exploring lands that had been discovered and settled by other people thousands of years before. The widely-used term "Age of Discovery" reflects the Eurocentric view of the world that existed at the time. For this article, we focus on seaborne exploration and consider the Age of Exploration to end with the navigators Cook, Vancouver, Tasman and Flinders exploring the Pacific in the late 18th century. This excludes various expansions over land &mdash; the [[Russian Empire]], the [[Ottoman Empire]], [[Imperial China]], America's [[Old West]] and so on &mdash; and more recent explorations in the [[Arctic]], [[Antarctica]] and [[Space]]. The article ''[[In the footsteps of explorers]]'' takes a broader approach to exploration, including explorers from other time-periods and those not from Europe. ==Understand== {{seealso|Early modern Europe|Maritime history}} Though the great voyages of the Age of Discovery were neither the world's first nor the first major ones by Europeans, they were very influential. Trade routes had been maintained between the [[Roman Empire]] and the East via the [[Silk Road]] for many centuries. The period from the 5th to the 15th century AD is in Europe known as the [[Medieval Europe|Middle Ages]], earlier implied to be a "dark" age between the fall of the Roman Empire and the Renaissance and Age of Discovery. This view is today dismissed, and there were indeed many great explorers during the time, both Europeans and others. [[Vikings]] reached North America around 1000&nbsp;CE. [[Marco Polo]]'s book, published around 1300, told of the riches of the East and strongly influenced later exploration. The [[Islamic Golden Age]] produced explorers such as [[Ibn Battuta]], who travelled further than any known person before him. China's [[Imperial China|Ming Dynasty]] sent the [[Voyages of Zheng He|Ming Treasure Voyages]] across the South China Sea and Indian Ocean in the 15th century, making it as far the [[East Africa|east coast of Africa]]. The European Age of Discovery began in 1415, as the Portuguese captured the Moorish port of [[Ceuta]] in North Africa, marking the start of the [[Portuguese Empire]]. They were pioneers in the Age of Exploration, discovering the system of ocean currents and prevailing winds in the Atlantic Ocean, and striving to improve their shipbuilding and seamanship skills in order to use it. The understanding of the trade winds, and the development of triangular sails capable of crosswind sailing, enabled Europeans to sail across oceans and establish global empires. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to expand over the seas since the [[Vikings]]. First they discovered and settled some nearby and until then uninhabited archipelagos, [[Madeira]] in 1418 and the [[Azores]] in 1427. [[File:Portuguese discoveries and explorationsV2en.png|thumb|upright=1.35|Portuguese discoveries and explorations: first arrival places and dates; main Portuguese spice trade routes (blue)]] Inaugurated around 1433, the [[Sagres]] nautical school, sponsored by Prince Henry the Navigator (1394-1460), was set up to study the maritime exploration of the Atlantic Ocean, which led to the reaching of [[Greenland]], [[Newfoundland]], [[Labrador]], and the west coast of Africa. The discovery of a passable route around [[Boujdour|Cape Bojador]] by Portuguese mariner Gil Eanes in 1434 was a major breakthrough for European seamanship, of almost mystical significance. After Prince Henry's death, his pupils continued to voyage further and further, enabling [[Portugal]] to begin a major chapter in world history with the New World discoveries and a monopoly over trade between the Orient and Western Europe. The Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias would become the first European to sight and sail around the Cape of Good Hope in 1488. Explorers Vasco da Gama and Pedro Álvares Cabral reached India in 1498 and Brazil in 1500, respectively, setting in motion the colonial scheme of occupation and exploitation. Other countries soon joined in. Spain sent [[Voyages of Columbus|Columbus]] on a series of voyages starting in 1492, and also sent out voyages under other commanders; in 1519 they sent out the [[Magellan]] expedition, the first circumnavigation of the world. In the process, Magellan would become the first European to sail through "the Strait that shall forever bear his name", in 1520. This would be the main route for ships sailing between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans until the first European sighting and rounding of [[Cabo de Hornos National Park|Cape Horn]] further south by the Dutch navigator Willem Schouten in 1616. [[#John Cabot|John Cabot]] explored [[Newfoundland]] and nearby areas for the British starting in 1497. French exploratory voyages began around 1508 under Giovanni da Verrazzano, and what is now [[Quebec]] was claimed for the [[Kingdom of France]] by [[#Jacques Cartier|Jacques Cartier]] by 1540. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to reach [[Indonesia]], in 1512, with British, Dutch and Spanish traders not far behind. In medieval Europe, pepper cost more than its weight in gold, so the [[Spice Islands]] were an extremely valuable colony. Several small wars were fought over them, with the Dutch ending up in control. The {{marker | name=Treaty of Tordesillas| wikipedia=Treaty of Tordesillas}} was signed in 1494 after the Pope mediated in a dispute between Portugal and Spain; it divided the non-Christian world between those two powers. The Protestant powers and even Catholic France ignored it. [[File:Spain_and_Portugal.png|thumb|upright=1.35|The Pope divides the world]] * Spain was granted the right to occupy much of the New World, plus most of the Pacific. They soon grabbed most of the Americas, except Portuguese Brazil and various areas where the British, Dutch or French beat them to it. * Portugal got [[Brazil]] and was granted a free hand in the Old World, except for Christian Europe. They rushed to establish bases (though generally not large colonies) all along the trade routes to the riches of the East. They held [[Angola]], [[Goa]], [[East Timor]] and [[Macau]] until the late 20th century. They were also in [[Sri Lanka]], [[Malacca]], the [[Spice Islands]] and [[Taiwan]] until the Dutch or the British displaced them. The treaty allowed either nation to intrude into the other's zone provided the area was not yet colonized, they formed alliances with local rulers, and they spread the Faith. At least in the mind of the Spanish King, this justified taking the [[Philippines]] in the 1560s. ===Past the Age of Discovery=== It was the Portuguese, from their base in Macau, who first began serious trade with China and Japan. Later, other European powers and the U.S. joined in. However, both countries would maintain relatively isolationist trade policies until the 19th century, when the British forced China into very unfavorable trade terms following their victory in the First Opium War in 1842, and the Americans forced Japan to open up during the Black Ships incident in 1853. Italy did not develop its own colonial empire until the late 19th century &mdash; they took [[Eritrea]] in 1882, [[Somalia]] in 1889, [[Libya]] in 1911, [[Ethiopia]] in 1936, and had a few small concessions in [[China]] &mdash; but many of the explorers in the early days were Italians. These included Columbus, Cabot, Verrazzano, Amerigo Vespucci and Magellan's chronicler, Antonio Pigafetta. Along with military conquest and commerce, the other goal of imperialism was [[Christianity|Christianizing]] the indigenous peoples, which was the role of missionaries. And except in [[Islam|Muslim]], [[Hinduism|Hindu]], [[Sikhism|Sikh]] and most [[Buddhism|Buddhist]] areas, and nations with their own longstanding Christian churches, they were very successful in attaining converts, eventually leading to Christianity becoming the world's most prolific religion, a position it maintains today. Many of the early missionaries to nations far from Europe took fascinating journeys which can be retraced, and there are many historical missions around the world with functioning churches and museums that can be visited. The Europeans often maintained control over their colonies through a "divide and conquer" strategy, in which they would deliberately stoke tensions between different groups. Moreover, many people were shipped between far flung regions of the colonial empires to provide labour for the respective colonial masters. This has resulted in significant ethnic and religious tensions that have persisted even after the colonies gained independence, sometimes even resulting in civil wars, ethnic cleansings or genocides. At the end of the 18th century and the beginning of the industrial era, the inland of many continents, as well as the polar regions, remained uncharted. Among famous inland expeditions were the [[Lewis and Clark expedition]] across North America, and the [[voyages of Sven Hedin]] across Central Asia. The North and South Pole were reached by humans only in the 20th century. ==Eat and drink== The Age of Discovery also had a huge impact on global culinary culture, and many ingredients now seen as integral parts of many [[Europe]]an cuisines such as potatoes, tomatoes and cocoa actually have their origins in the [[Americas]]. Turkeys are native to North America, and originally domesticated by the ancient Mesoamericans, but are today an integral part of the traditional [[England|English]] [[Christmas and New Year travel|Christmas]] dinner. Similarly, chillis have become an integral part of many [[Asia]]n and [[Africa]]n cuisines despite their origin in what is today southern [[Mexico]] and [[Central America]], having been brought to these areas by Spanish and Portuguese traders in the 16th century. Maize (corn), which is native to southern Mexico, has become a staple in many African cuisines. Sweet potatoes are originally from South America, but today China is the largest grower. Unlike native American ingredients, native Australian ingredients have a comparatively minor impact on the global culinary scene, the sole exception being the macadamia nut, which is now one of [[Hawaii]]'s major exports. Crops and animals originally domesticated in the ancient [[Fertile Crescent]] &mdash; barley, wheat, cattle, sheep and others &mdash; spread to Europe in ancient times, and the Age of Discovery spread them to the rest of the world. Today agriculture in many temperate zone former colonies &mdash; including Canada, the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina &mdash; is largely based on them. [[Coffee]] had its origins in the [[Horn of Africa]], but is now also grown in many other parts of the world, including parts of the Americas and Southeast Asia. [[Tobacco]] has also spread widely from its origins in the Americas. [[Tea]] was introduced into Europe from China during the Age of Discovery, with [[Russia]] being the main player in the overland caravan routes via [[Siberia]] and [[Central Asia]], while [[Portugal]] and the [[Netherlands]] initially dominated the sea routes though later the British took over much of the trade. The [[United Kingdom]] in particular took a liking to this new beverage, and tea drinking became a status symbol among the British nobility, thus giving rise to the traditional afternoon tea. The British also introduced commercial tea growing to their colonies in attempt to break the Chinese monopoly, and today, [[India]], [[Sri Lanka]], [[Kenya]] and [[Malaysia]] are major tea producers. ==Explorers== This section lists many of the more famous explorers of the period. ===Christopher Columbus=== {{main|Voyages of Columbus}} Christopher Columbus (1451-1506) was a [[Genoa|Genoese]] colonizer and explorer who made several voyages across in Atlantic in the service of the Spanish crown from 1492-1502, thus kickstarting the Age of Discovery and the formation of the [[Spanish Empire|Spanish colonial empire]]. While he never set foot in what are now the states of the [[United States of America]], his voyages are celebrated in the form of the public holiday Columbus Day. ===John Cabot=== John Cabot, or Giovanni Caboto, (c. 1450 – c. 1500) was a [[Venice|Venetian]] working for the English King who made three trips west from [[Bristol]] in 1497 and 1498. The records are scanty and their interpretation controversial, but it seems that he was the first European since the [[Vikings]] to reach [[Newfoundland]]. One of his sons, Sebastian, was also an explorer; working for the English King between 1504 and 1512 he explored the North American coast as far south as [[Chesapeake Bay]] and became the first to look for the Northwest Passage, following the north coast of what is now [[Quebec]] until the weather forced him to turn back. Later he worked for Spain exploring South America. ===Vasco da Gama=== {{main|Cape Route}} Vasco da Gama (c.1460-1524) was a Portuguese explorer who became the first European to reach [[India]] by sea, going around [[Africa]] in the process. His voyages thus allowed Portugal to establish a [[Portuguese Empire|colonial empire]] in much of Africa and Asia. ===Ferdinand Magellan=== {{main|Magellan-Elcano circumnavigation}} Ferdinand Magellan (c.1480-1521) was a Portuguese explorer in the service of the Spanish crown who organised the first circumnavigation of the globe, and became the first European to reach Asia from the east, by first sailing through [[Punta Arenas|the strait that was later named after him]]. Magellan himself was killed in a tribal war in [[Mactan]] in what is now the [[Philippines]], and the circumnavigation was completed by his subordinate commander Juan Sebastián Elcano. ===Hernán Cortés=== Hernán Cortés (1485-1547) is best known as the Spanish conquistador who conquered the Aztec empire, paving the way for the rise of the Spanish Empire in the Americas. The conquistadors were the earliest Spanish explorers in the Americas, but they were motivated mostly by greed and glory, seeking dominion over the indigenous peoples and appropriation of their gold and silver (which they found in abundance in Mesoamerica). Cortés conquered a large area stretching from Veracruz on the Gulf of Mexico across Central Mexico to the Pacific coast. ===Jacques Cartier=== Jacques Cartier (1491-1557) was a [[Brittany|Breton]] who explored the Gulf of Saint Lawrence (which he named, because he arrived there on the Saint's feast day) and the Saint Lawrence River for France between 1531 and 1542. He was the first European to reach what were then indigenous settlements and are now [[Quebec City]] and [[Montreal]]. He could not go beyond Montreal due to rapids. He did not command the third voyage in 1541-42. This was to be France's first attempt at establishing a permanent settlement in the New World, and overall command was given to de Roberval who was to be governor of the colony; Cartier was chief navigator. The colony failed, but by then Cartier was already retired in [[St Malo]] which now has a [[Saint-Malo#Musée Jacques Cartier|Jacques Cartier Museum]]. ===Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo=== In 1542, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo (c.1497-1543) was a Spanish explorer who sailed north from Mexico to explore the North American west coast. He is recognized as the first European to set foot in what is now the U.S. state of California and his crew sailed as far north as the Rogue River in Oregon before winter weather caused the ship to turn south to return to Mexico. The place where Cabrillo first landed in [[San Diego]] is the site of a [https://www.nps.gov/cabr U.S. National Monument]. Cabrillo would never finish his exploration of the west coast, he died in the [[Channel Islands (California) | Channel Islands]] in 1543 after shattering his leg in a fall. ===St. Francis Xavier=== St. Francis Xavier (1506-1552) was a [[Navarre|Navarrese]] Catholic missionary who was one of the founders of the Society of Jesus ([[Jesuits]]). He led evangelization efforts in much of the Portuguese colonial empire in Asia, in particular [[Goa]] and [[Malacca]], and became the first Christian missionary to reach [[Borneo]], the [[Maluku|Maluku Islands]] and [[Japan]]. He was on a diplomatic mission to [[China]] when he fell ill and died on the island of Shangchuan near [[Taishan City|Taishan]], [[Guangdong]]. Initially buried on a beach on the island, his body was later exhumed and moved to St Paul's Church in [[Malacca]] (now in ruins). He would later be moved again to the Basilica of Bom Jesus in [[Goa]], where he lies to this day. * {{listing | type=see | name=St. Francis Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shangchuan Island, [[Taishan City|Taishan]], China | lat=21.74889600766629 | long=112.77440229678334 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-07-12 | content=Church built in memory of St. Francis Xavier on the spot where he died. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Basilica of Bom Jesus | alt= | url= | email= | address=[[Goa]], India | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q391123 | lastedit=2023-07-12 | content=St. Francis Xavier's final resting place. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Ruins of Saint Paul's Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=[[Malacca]], Malaysia | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q7591055 | lastedit=2023-07-13 | content=Ruins of a church built by the Portuguese. It was here that St. Francis Xavier stayed during his sojourn in Malacca, and founded the first modern school in the Malay Peninsula knowns as St Paul's College. Following his death in China, St Francis Xavier's body was temporarily interred here before eventually being transferred to his final resting place in Goa, India. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=St. Francis Xavier Memorial Church | alt=平戸ザビエル記念教会 | url= | email= | address=Hirado, [[Nagasaki Prefecture]], Japan | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q11610890 | lastedit=2023-07-13 | content=Church built in 1913 to commemorate the visit of St. Francis Xavier to Hirado in 1550, with a statue of him in front of the church. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Xavier Park | alt=ザビエル公園 | url= | email= | address=[[Kagoshima]], Japan | lat=31.59115395746675 | long=130.55117286715148 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-07-13 | content=Park commemorating the stay of St. Francis Xavier in Kagoshima, with statues of him and his two Japanese disciples Anjiro and Bernardo, the former of whom was the first record Japanese Christian, and that latter of whom was the first Japanese to set foot on European soil. The park is also home to the ruins of the Xavier Church that was built in his honour in 1908, but destroyed in a World War II bombing raid. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Monument of St. Xavier’s Landing | alt=ザビエル上陸記念碑 | url= | email= | address=[[Kagoshima]], Japan | lat=31.603705965148695 | long=130.57180332751565 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-07-13 | content=Located in Gionnosu Park, on the site where St. Francis Xavier first landed in Japan. }} ===Sir Francis Drake=== Sir Francis Drake (1540-1596) was an English explorer and privateer, famous for sailing around the world, including leading the first circumnavigation of the globe under a single commander from 1577 to 1580, and for his many raids on Spanish waters. The most notable of these were his attack on [[Cartagena (Colombia)|Cartagena de Indias]] in April 1586 with 23 ships and 3,000 men, burning 200 houses and the cathedral, and departing only after a ransom was paid a month later; and the "singeing of King Philip's beard" in 1587, against [[Cádiz]], [[A Coruña]] and the Spanish Armada, occupying the harbours and destroying 37 naval and merchant ships. Legend says, on his return, he raided and destroyed the old [[Sagres]] school, a Spanish asset at this time; when ''Golden Hinde'' arrived and docked at the Tower of London, Queen Elizabeth I went aboard with the French ambassador, announced him "Sir", and handed the Frenchman a sword to perform the deed (and embroil the French and Spanish empires against each other). His legacy is mixed; in Latin America, ''El Draque'' is remembered mostly as a pirate, whereas the Anglosphere sees him as a bona fide explorer. ===Matteo Ricci=== Matteo Ricci (1552-1610) was an Italian Jesuit priest who led Roman Catholic evangelization efforts in China. Born in [[Macerata]], then part of the Papal States, he joined the Society of Jesus while studying in [[Rome]] at the Roman College in 1571. He set off from [[Lisbon]] on a missionary expedition to [[Asia]] in 1578 and arrived in the then-Portuguese colony of [[Goa]] later that year. He was then dispatched from Goa to [[Macau]], then a Portuguese trading post, in 1582, where studied Chinese language and culture, becoming one of the first Westerners to master the Chinese writing system and literary classics. From Macau he would later travel into the Chinese heartland, eventually reaching the capital [[Beijing]] in 1598. While in Beijing, Ricci became an advisor to the imperial court of the Ming Dynasty, becoming the first Westerner to be invited into the Forbidden City. Ricci introduced Western knowledge to China, including by publishing the first world map in the Chinese language in 1602. He also managed to convert several important Chinese officials to Christianity by, rather controversially, devising a new set of liturgical rites for China that incorporated elements of Confucianism such as the veneration of ancestors, which was vehemently opposed by the Franciscans and Dominicans. When Ricci died in 1610, although Chinese law at that time required foreigners who died in China to be buried in Macau, the emperor granted special dispensation for him to be buried in Beijing due to his contributions to China. * {{listing | type=see | name=Statue of Matteo Ricci | alt= | url= | email= | address=[[Macau]] | lat=22.197424687290273 | long=113.54123851069178| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-07-13 | content=Unveiled in 2010 on the anniversary of Matteo Ricci's arrival in the city, the statue sits on the site where the College of St. Paul, where Ricci had stayed while in Macau, once stood. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception | alt=圣母无染原罪堂 | url= | email= | address=[[Beijing]], China | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q1188864 | lastedit=2023-07-12 | content=Church founded by Matteo Ricci, and the oldest Roman Catholic church in Beijing. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Zhalan Cemetery | alt=滕公栅栏 | url= | email= | address=[[Beijing]], China | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q4578286 | lastedit=2023-07-12 | content=Cemetery where Matteo Ricci and numerous Jesuits who came after him were buried. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Former site of Temple of Flowers of the Saints | alt=利玛窦仙花寺遗址 | url= | email= | address=[[Zhaoqing]], China | lat=23.04729149570253 | long=112.47769194530092 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-07-13 | content=The former site of the Temple of Flowers of the Saints, the first Roman Catholic church in the Chinese mainland, which was founded by Matteo Ricci. A plaque commemorating the former existence of the church now stands on the site. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Library of Congress | alt= | url=https://www.loc.gov/ | email= | address=[[Washington, D.C.]], United States | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata=Q131454 | lastedit=2023-07-13 | content=Houses Matteo Ricci's ''Kunyu Wanguo Quantu'' (坤輿萬國全圖), the first map of the world to be published in the Chinese language. }} ===Henry Hudson=== Henry Hudson (1565-1611?) was an Englishman who led several expeditions to the New World. Most were under the English flag, searching for the Northwest passage, though on one he explored areas further south for the Dutch East India Company, leading to that company founding "New Amsterdam" which later became [[New York City]]. The Hudson River, Hudson's Bay and various other things were named for him. ===Samuel de Champlain=== Samuel de Champlain (1567–1635) was a French colonist, navigator, cartographer, draftsman, soldier, explorer, geographer, ethnologist, diplomat, and chronicler. He made over twenty trips across the Atlantic Ocean, and founded [[Quebec City]] and [[New France]] in 1608. An important figure in Canadian history, Champlain created the first accurate coastal map during his explorations, and founded various colonial settlements. ===Abel Tasman=== [[File:Tasmanroutes.PNG|thumb|The route of Abel Tasman's 1642 and 1644 voyages in the service of the Dutch East India Company]] In November 1642, Dutch East India Company commander Abel Tasman (1603-1659), exploring from [[Mauritius]] under orders of Anthony van Diemen, governor-general of the [[Dutch Empire|Dutch East Indies]], found [[Tasmania]] island, and claimed it. He named it "Van Diemen's Land" after his patron; it was re-named to its current name after him in 1856. A cape and a group of islands in northern [[New Zealand]] are still called by names given by Tasman, and [[Abel Tasman National Park]] on the [[South Island]] is named for him. He reportedly reached [[Fiji]] and [[Tonga]], later returning to [[Jakarta|Batavia]]. His second voyage took place in 1644; he mapped a part of Australia's northern coast, but failed to find the Torres Strait and a possible trade route, and the expedition was deemed a failure. ===Vitus Bering=== [[File:Berings ships wrecked.jpg|thumb|right | 250px|Vitus Bering's expedition being wrecked on the Aleutian Islands in 1741.]] [[File:The grave of Vitus Bering.jpg|thumb|right | 250px|The grave of Vitus Bering on Bering island]] Danish cartographer and explorer Vitus Jonassen Bering (1681-1741), also known as Ivan Ivanovich Bering, an officer in the Russian Navy, explored the Bering Sea region and claimed [[Kamchatka]] (1725-28) and [[Alaska]] (1741) on behalf of the [[Russian Empire]]. The Bering Strait, the Bering Sea, Bering Island (where he is buried, after dying while underway), the Bering Glacier and the Bering Land Bridge were all named in his honor. He was neither the first Russian to sight North America (that having been achieved by Mikhail Gvozdev during the 1730s), nor the first Russian to pass through the strait which now bears his name (an honour which goes to the relatively unknown 17th-century expedition of Semyon Dezhnev). Reports from his second voyage were jealously guarded by the Russian administration, preventing Bering's story from being retold in full for at least a century after his death. Nonetheless, Bering's achievements, both as an individual explorer and as a leader of the second expedition, have never been doubted. Captain James Cook, despite knowledge of Dezhnev's earlier expedition, chose to use the name "Bering Strait". ===James Cook=== {{main|Voyages of James Cook}} Born in 1728, Cook joined the Royal Navy in 1755, eventually rising to the rank of captain. He saw action in the Seven Years' War and subsequently surveyed and mapped much of the entrance to the Saint Lawrence River during the siege of Quebec, which brought him to the attention of the Admiralty and Royal Society. This led to his commission in 1766 as commander of HM Bark ''Endeavour'' for the first of three expeditions around the Pacific Ocean, during which he achieved the first recorded circumnavigation of New Zealand, as well as the first European contact and waypoint naming on the eastern coastline of Australia. He was killed at [[Big Island|Kealakekua Bay]] in Hawaii on 14 February 1779, in a conflict with locals. ===Louis Antoine de Bougainville=== Louis-Antoine, Comte de Bougainville (1729–1811) from [[Saint-Malo]] was a French admiral and explorer. A contemporary of James Cook, he took part in the Seven Years' War in North America and the American Revolutionary War against Britain. Bougainville later gained fame for his expeditions, including a scientific circumnavigation of the globe in 1763, the first recorded settlement on the [[Falkland Islands]] which he named "Isles Malouines", and voyages into the Pacific Ocean. [[Bougainville]] Island of [[Papua New Guinea]], as well as the ''Bougainvillea'' genus of tropical ornamental plants, were named after him. ===George Vancouver=== {{main|Voyages of George Vancouver}} Vancouver was a British officer of the Royal Navy best known for his 1791–95 expedition, to lay formal [[British Empire|British claim]] and start colonization of North America's northwestern Pacific Coast regions previously mapped by James Cook. The [[Canada|Canadian]] city of [[Vancouver]], as well as the nearby [[Vancouver Island]] were named after him. The colony was called [[British Columbia]], and became a province of Canada in 1871. ===Matthew Flinders=== [[File:StatueOfMatthewFlinders.jpg|thumb|right|upright|Statue of Flinders along North Terrace, [[Adelaide]]]] {{main|Voyages of Matthew Flinders}} Captain Matthew Flinders (1774–1814) was an English navigator, cartographer and officer of the Royal Navy who led the second circumnavigation of New Holland, that he would subsequently call "Australia", and identified it as a continent. Flinders made three voyages to the Southern Ocean between 1791 and 1810. Today, Flinders is often forgotten about in his home country (England), but he is well known to Australians, and many places in Australia are named after him. ==See== Wikivoyage has itinerary articles for some of the greatest voyages of the Age of Discovery: *[[Voyages of Columbus]] — Spain to the Caribbean, 1492 *[[Cape Route]] — Vasco da Gama, Portugal to India by going south around Africa, 1498 *[[Magellan-Elcano circumnavigation]] — around the world, by going past the southern tip of mainland South America, 1519-1521 *[[Voyages of James Cook]] — United Kingdom to [[Oceania|the Pacific]], 1766-1780 *[[Voyages of George Vancouver]] — United Kingdom to the west coast of [[North America]], 1791–1795 *[[Voyages of Matthew Flinders]] — United Kingdom to [[Australia]], 1791-1810 ===Europe=== In '''[[Lisbon]]''', the capital of Portugal, see the ''Torre de Belém'' where Portuguese explorers embarked on their voyages to distant lands, and where they disembarked on their return to the motherland. The Museu da Marinha (Maritime Museum) in the Belém district, evokes Portugal's domination of the seas. Its collections include model ships from the Age of Discovery onward. The oldest exhibit is a wooden figure representing the Archangel Raphael that accompanied Vasco da Gama on his voyage to India. '''[[Seville]]''' was the main base for Spanish expeditions in this period and has the ''General Archive of the Indies'', a library of documents on Spanish exploration and colonization. In '''[[Saint-Malo]]''', France, you can visit the Jacques Cartier Museum in his former house, which has been restored and fitted out to evoke the daily life and travels of Cartier who explored and claimed Canada for France in the mid-16th century. In '''[[Bristol]]''', in the United Kingdom, you can board the ''Matthew of Bristol'', a replica of the ship used by John Cabot (an Italian also known as Giovanni Caboto) to explore the coast of North America for England. In '''[[London]]''', in the United Kingdom, you can board a replica of Sir Francis Drake's ''The Golden Hinde'' built using traditional methods. Buckland Abbey, in Yelverton near '''[[Plymouth (England)|Plymouth]]''', was owned by Sir Francis Drake, and is now a museum. A number of mementos of his life are displayed there. ===Americas=== In '''[[Santo Domingo]]''', the capital of the Dominican Republic, you can visit the "Faro a Colon", a huge lighthouse and monument built to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Columbus' arrival in the Americas in 1492. It is also a museum that claims to house his remains. Santo Domingo was the first major European settlement in the New World. Christopher Columbus walked these streets! The Cathedral of '''[[Seville]]''', Spain, has the results of DNA testing to back its claim to having the explorer's remains. In '''[[Punta Arenas]]''', Chile, the Museo Nao Victoria hosts a replica of the ''Nao Victoria'', one of the ships used by Juan Sebastián Elcano, a Spaniard, who completed the first circumnavigation of the Earth (1519-21). It also has a replica of the HMS ''Beagle''. '''[[Sitka]]''' in Alaska is a Russian-born city, the former capital of Russian Alaska. ===Africa=== '''[[Mossel Bay]]''', South Africa, has a Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex with information about European explorers and a replica of the ship used by 15th-century Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias. At '''Kwaaihoek''', Alexandria, near [[Port Elizabeth]] in South Africa, the Dias Cross Memorial is a replica of the cross erected in 1488 by Bartolomeu Diaz, the famous Portuguese navigator. ===Asia=== '''[[Malacca]]''' was first colonised by the Portuguese in 1511, after Alfonso de Albuquerque defeated the Malacca Sultanate in a war. The Dutch would gain control of it after defeating the Portuguese in a war in 1641. It would remain under Dutch rule until the signing of the Anglo-Dutch Treaty in 1824, when the British took over Malacca in exchange for the Dutch taking the British colonies in Sumatra. Today, you can visit the Portuguese settlement, where descendants of the Portuguese colonisers who intermarried with the locals reside, and some continue to speak a Portuguese-based creole. It is also a good place to sample the distinctive Portuguese Eurasian cuisine. Other sites dating back to the Portuguese colonial era include the ruins of the ''A Famosa'' fort and the Church of Saint Paul. Several Dutch colonial buildings also survive, including the ''Stadhuys'' and the adjacent Christ Church. '''[[Penang]]''' was colonised by the British in 1786, when the Sultan of [[Kedah]] sold it to Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company, making it the first British colony in Southeast Asia. Today, [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]], the capital of Penang, is known for being one of the best preserved examples of a British colonial capital in Southeast Asia. Light died of malaria in 1794, and is buried in the Old Protestant Cemetery on the island, where his grave can be visited. '''[[Macau]]''' was colonised by Portugal in 1557, when China's Ming Dynasty granted them the right to establish a permanent trading post as gratitude for helping the Chinese to eliminate coastal pirates, making it the first European colony in East Asia. Portugal would hold on to Macau until 1999, when it was returned to China, which incidentally also marked the end of European colonialism in Asia. Today, Macau is home to an exceptionally high concentration of well-preserved Portuguese colonial architecture, particularly around the ''Largo do Senado'', complete with the traditional Portuguese pavement, and you could easily mistake it for somewhere in Europe were it not for the people and Chinese-language signs. There is also the Ruins of Saint Paul, the remnants of a Portuguese Roman Catholic church that was destroyed in a fire in 1835. Another legacy of Portuguese rule is the unique Macanese cuisine, with perhaps its most famous dish being the Macanese egg tart, which was originally derived from the Portuguese ''pastel de nata''. '''[[Taiwan]]''''s history is more complex. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to sight it in 1544 and named it ''Ilha Formosa'' (beautiful island), the name by which it first became known to the West. Formosa was the usual name in English until it was replaced by the Chinese name "Taiwan" in the late 20th century. The Spanish held parts of it in the early 1600s but were driven out by the Dutch, who were driven out by [[Ming Dynasty]] loyalist Koxinga (known in China as Zheng Chenggong) in 1661. He set up an independent kingdom which lasted until the [[Qing Dynasty]] invaded in 1683. The Qing kept control until 1895 when Japan took the island. Japan was forced to give it back to China in 1945 after their defeat in [[Pacific War|World War II]]. '''[[Nagasaki]]''' was [[Japan]]'s sole point of contact with the outside world for centuries prior to the Black Ships Incident of 1853. From 1580-1587, the city was granted to the Jesuits and administered by a representative of the Portuguese crown. It was through Portuguese Jesuit missionaries in Nagasaki that the technique of coating seafood in batter and deep frying it was introduced to Japan, resulting the popular dish today known as ''tempura''. After the establishment of the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1603, Japan would adopt an isolationist policy, forbidding almost all contact with the outside world. One exception was Dutch traders, who were permitted to set up as base in Nagasaki, though confined to their trading post and forbidden from interacting with most locals. The Dutch trading post was on the island of Dejima, which has been reconstructed and can be visited by tourists. [[Gulangyu]] in [[Xiamen]] has a [[Gulangyu#History_and_culture_museums|museum for Koxinga]] who drove the Dutch out of Taiwan. Although popularly remembered as a pirate in the West, he is one of the few historical leaders considered a hero by the governments in both Beijing and Taipei; defeating the foreign devils makes him a good guy in everyone's books. There are also numerous sites dedicated to him across the strait in [[Tainan]], including the Chih-kan Tower and several temples. Tainan is also home to the ruins of several forts that were built during the Dutch colonial period. The first Europeans to reach the [[Philippines]] were a Spanish expedition under [[Magellan]] in the 1520s, during which Magellan himself was killed in [[Mactan]] by local tribal chief Lapu-Lapu. The Spanish returned to colonize in the 1560s and held it until 1898 when the Americans took it over (along with [[Cuba]], [[Puerto Rico]] and [[Guam]]) after the Spanish-American War. Today many [[Philippines#Historical_and_cultural_attractions|attractions]] in the country are remnants of the Spanish colonial period, with the city of [[Vigan]] being perhaps the best preserved example of a Spanish colonial city in the country. ==See also== Wikivoyage also has a number of articles on things that were influenced by European exploration and colonialism. The "Big Five" colonial empires were: *[[British Empire]] including its "jewel in the crown", the [[British Raj]] *[[Dutch Empire]] *[[French Colonial Empire]] *[[Portuguese Empire]] *[[Spanish Empire]] Other articles on related topics include: *[[Austro-Hungarian Empire]] *[[Atlantic slave trade]] *[[Danish Empire]] *[[German Empire]] *[[Italian Empire]] *[[Swedish Empire]] *[[Russian Empire]] and its successor, the [[Soviet Union]] *[[Indigenous cultures of North America]] *[[Indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica]] *[[Indigenous cultures of South America]] *[[Indigenous Australian culture]] *[[Maori culture]] *[[Western food in Asia]] The Belgians also built a smaller colonial empire. Wikivoyage does not have an article on the Belgian colonial empire (as of October 2022). The descendants of European colonists in thirteen British colonies in North America would declare independence as the [[United States of America]] in 1776, with the new country beginning its expansion shortly after, and subsequently building a colonial empire of its own in the 19th and 20th centuries. {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|In the footsteps of explorers}} l3o02fa9ya6ldq7o7do4q59m2jqfhvj 0 174772 5091149 4982304 2025-07-11T02:10:46Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Go next */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091149 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg|pgname=Greenville}} '''[https://www.visitdarkecounty.org/ Greenville]''' is a city of 13,000 people (2020) in the [[Miami - Scioto basins]], and the county seat of Darke County, Ohio. ==Understand== [[File:Treaty of Greenville.jpg|thumb|The Treaty of Greenville]] ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=auto}} {{mapshape}} ===By car=== Greenville lies just north of the junction of US 127 and US36 ==Get around== ==See== * {{listing | type=see | name=Garst Museum | alt= | url=https://www.garstmuseum.org/ | email=information@garstmuseum.org | address=205 N Broadway | lat=40.106944 | long=-84.636944 | directions= | phone=+1-937-548-5250 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM, Su 1PM-4PM | price=$10 (Adult) | wikidata=Q5524294 | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content=Dedicated to local historical figures, notably including local [[Indigenous cultures of North America|Native Americans]], sharpshooter Annie Oakly of [[Old West|Buffalo Bill's Wild West show]], and Lowell Thomas who was a companion of Lawrence of Arabia. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Darke County Courthouse, Sheriff's House and Jail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.100556 | long=-84.631667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5223579 | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content=A historic legal complex built in the Second Empire [[Architecture|architectural]] style. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Bear's Mill | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.106667 | long=-84.541944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4876328 | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content=A preserved watermill that still functions. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=The Great Darke County Fair | alt= | url=https://darkecountyfair.com/ | email=contact@darkecountyfair.com | address=800 Sweitzer St | lat=40.0877 | long=-84.6357 | directions= | phone=+1 937-548-5044 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q111371125 | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content=Features a demolition derby, tractor pull, and motorcycle racing. }} * {{do | name=Shawnee Prairie Preserve & Nature Center | alt= | url=https://www.darkecountyparks.org/shawnee-prairie-preserve-nature-center | email= | address= | lat=40.0969 | long=-84.6439 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q49560594 | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=Nature and cultural preserve. Has a blacksmith and log house. }} ==Buy== * {{listing | type=buy | name=Countryside Bike Shop | alt=CS Bike Shop | url=http://www.csbikes.com/ | email= | address=301 S Broadway | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 937-423-4415 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Th 10AM-6PM, F 10AM-8PM, Sa 10AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{listing | type=eat | name=The Merchant House | alt= | url=https://www.tmhgreenville.com/ | email=reservations@tmhgreenville.com | address=406 S Broadway St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 937-459-4405 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Th 11AM-10PM, F Sa 11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content= }} * {{listing | type=eat | name=Montage Cafe | alt= | url=https://montagecafe.com/ | email=info@montagecafe.com | address=527 S Broadway | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 937-548-1950 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 8:30AM-4PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Maid Rite Sandwich Shoppe | alt= | url=https://www.maidrite-greenville.com/ | email= | address=125 N Broadway St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-937-548-9340 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-10PM, Su 11AM-10PM | price=~$5 (for a sandwich and drink) | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content=A burger joint from the 1930s. Sells sandwiches shakes, chips, and beer. }} ==Drink== * {{listing | type=drink | name=JT's Brew and Grill | alt= | url=https://www.jtbrewandgrill.com/Home | email=info@jtbrewandgrill.com | address=1475 Wagner Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1-937-548-1400 | tollfree= | hours=M-Th 11AM-10PM, F Sa 11AM-11PM, Su 10AM-8:30PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content= }} * {{listing | type=drink | name=Tolly's Gastropub | alt= | url=https://www.tollysgastropub.us/ | email= | address=644 Wagner Ave | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 937-459-5225 | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Th 11AM-10PM, F Sa 11AM-11PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Holiday Inn Express | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/greenville/gvekb/hoteldetail | email= | address=1195 Russ Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 937-548-1328 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=$135 | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content=Offers complementary breakfast and Wi-Fi. }} * {{listing | type=sleep | name=Quality Inn Greenville North | alt= | url=https://www.choicehotels.com/ohio/greenville/quality-inn-hotels/oh019 | email= | address=1190 E Russ Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 937-316-5252 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=11AM | price=$120 | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content=Offers complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast, indoor pool, and YMCA passes. }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Greenville Public Library | alt=Greenville Carnegie Library | url=http://www.greenville-publiclibrary.org/ | email= | address=520 Sycamore St | lat=40.099167 | long=-84.633056 | directions= | phone=+1 937-548-3915 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5604670 | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content=Computer lab available with a photo ID, as well as Wi-Fi. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=The Daily Advocate | alt= | url=https://www.dailyadvocate.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7728616 | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=Local newspaper }} ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Eldora Speedway | alt= | url=https://www.eldoraspeedway.com/ | email= | address= | lat=NA | long=NA | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1325639 | lastedit=2020-06-26 | content=Dirt raceway in the village of New Weston. }} * {{listing | type=do | name=Poultry Days | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7235601 | lastedit=2019-09-20 | content=Festival celebrating the local poultry industry in Versailles. }} {{IsPartOf|Miami - Scioto basins}} {{usablecity}} {{geo|40.1027|-84.6331}} 6ld58ydmp9v0sjmik27cylc94cfw1s7 0 176445 5091210 3899842 2025-07-11T05:55:55Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* See also */ 5091210 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Disambiguation banner.png}} There is more than one place called '''See''': See is German for lake. ===[[Austria]]=== * [[See (Tyrol)]] — a town in [[Paznaun Valley]] ===[[Switzerland]]=== * See District (German: Seebezirk, French: District du Lac), Fribourg, * See District (German: Bezirk See), St. Gallen, former district ===[[United States of America]]=== * {{IATA|SEE}} Gillespie Field, [[El Cajon]] === See also === * The Holy See, also known as [[Rome/Vatican|Vatican City]] * [[Cultural attractions]] * [[Natural attractions]] {{disamb}} ptxmi24k7n31wnw164ozu9zywse8jqy 0 177563 5091152 5062876 2025-07-11T02:13:17Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* 6 - War Memorial, Filippo Tommaso Marinetti */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091152 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner|Wv Lake Como Poetry Way banner.jpg}} The '''Lake Como Poetry Way''' is a 16-km pedestrian itinerary across the towns of [[Maslianico]], [[Cernobbio]], [[Como]] and [[Brunate]], which are on [[Lake Como]]. The peculiarity of the itinerary is that its narration is made through 16 historical figures that have lived and have depicted these places in their works. The itinerary is mapped also by 12 [https://littlefreelibrary.org/ Little Free Libraries] dedicated to the free exchange of books (in any language). ==Understand== The itinerary connects places which are characteristic of this territory and creates around such places an original storytelling. The places are narrated through the eyes of historical figures that have woven ties with the territory and specifically with the monuments and locations touched by the itinerary. ==Prepare== It is recommended to use trekking shoes, especially if you are willing to walk from stage no. 13 to stage no. 14, as the path here follows an old mule track between Eremo di San Donato and Brunate. If for this part of the itinerary you choose to take the funicular, then comfortable and adequate shoes for the 16-km length are sufficient. For the walk from stage no. 13 to stage no. 14, it is also recommended to bring a water bottle. '''Starting altitude:''' 335 m a.s.l. '''Arrival altitude:''' 715 m a.s.l. '''Difference in level:''' 654 m (137 descending, 517 ascending) '''Duration:''' 6 hours (without variations, and without stopping to visit all sites, more time needs to be taken into account in this case). '''Type of activity:''' Hiking '''Difficulty:''' Touristic == Get in == This itinerary starts from Roggiana Pass (on the border between the Italian community of Maslianico and the Suisse community of Vacallo) and ends in Brunate, crossing Cernobbio and Como, however it can be fractioned at will or followed in the opposite direction. From Como, the starting point can be reached using public transport [https://www.asfautolinee.it/mappe_pdf/Mappa_urbano.pdf ASF urban line]{{Dead link|date=February 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} no. 6. == Stages == {{Mapframe | 45.83 | 9.074 | zoom= 13 | height= 450 | width= 450 }} The itinerary is organised in 16 stages crossing through some of the most important sites in Roggiana, Cernobbio, Como and Brunate. Associated to each stage one or more anecdotes of an historical figure. ==== Roggiana ==== * {{listing|name=Roggiana Pass| lat=45.84754 | long=9.04428}} via Scaletto - ([[#1 - Roggiana Pass, Luigi Dottesio|go to stage]]) ==== Cernobbio ==== * {{listing |name=Villa Besana-Ciani | lat=45.84014| long=9.07690}} via Besana - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#2 - Riva di Cernobbio, Vincenzo Monti|go to stage]]) * {{listing |name=Villa del Grumello | lat=45.82315 | long=9.06741}} via per Cernobbio - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#3 - Villa del Grumello, Ugo Foscolo|go to stage]]) ==== Como ==== * {{listing |name=Villa Olmo | lat=45.81905 | long=9.065386}} via Simone Cantoni - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#4 - Villa Olmo, Caninio Rufo|go to stage]]) * {{listing |name=Villa Gallia | lat=45.81546 | long=9.06704}} via Borgovico - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#5 - Villa Gallia, Paolo Giovio|go to stage]]) * {{listing |name=War Memorial | lat=45.8149 | long=9.07358}} viale Giancarlo Puecher - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#6 - War Memorial, Filippo Tommaso Marinetti|go to stage]]) * {{listing |name=Tempio Voltiano | lat=45.814833 | long=9.075264}} Lungo Lario Marconi - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#7 - Tempio Voltiano, Alessandro Volta|go to stage]]) * {{listing |name=Piazza Cavour | lat=45.81300| long=9.08097}} - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#8 - Piazza Cavour, Hermann Hesse|go to stage]]) * {{listing |name=Duomo of Como (portal) | lat=45.81157 | long=9.08324}} piazza del Duomo - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#9 - Duomo of Como (portal), Plinii|go to stage]]) * {{listing |name=Duomo of Como (south facade)| lat=45.81153 | long=9.08370}} via Mestri Comacini - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#10 - Duomo of Como (south facade), Caecilius|go to stage]]) * {{listing |name=Town Theatre |lat=45.81152 | long=9.08491}} piazza Verdi - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#11 - Town Theatre, Mary Shelley|go to stage]]) * {{listing |name=Piazzetta Baratelli | lat=45.82471| long=9.07912}} - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#12 - Piazzetta Baratelli, August Strindberg|go to stage]]) * {{listing |name=Museo Civico | lat=45.808702 | long= 9.086206}} piazza Medaglie d'Oro - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#13 - Museo civico, Giacomo Leopardi|go to stage]]) ==== Brunate ==== * {{listing |name=Mule Road Como - Brunate| lat=45.81120 | long=9.09545}} con partenza dalle scalette a Como - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#14 - Mule Road Como-Brunate, Alda Merini|go to stage]]) * {{listing |name=Public Gardens Alessandro Volta | lat=45.81944 | long=9.09592 }} via Funicolare - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#15 - Public Gardens Alessandro Volta, Penčo Slavejkov|go to stage]]) * {{listing |name=Faro Voltiano | lat=45.82610 | long=9.10046 }} via Giacomo Scalini - ([[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#16 - Faro voltiano|go to stage]]) <br> The itinerary is also mapped by 12 Little Free Libraries listed below, where you can take and leave books free of charge. ==== Little Free Libraries ==== {| | :{{marker|type=do|name=Maslianico, Valico di Roggiana |lat=45.84754 | long=9.04428}}, via Scaletto :{{marker|type=do|name=Cernobbio |lat=45.84107 | long=9.06896}}, via Carcano angolo via Mondelli :{{marker|type=do|name=Cernobbio, Giardino della Valle|lat=45.84579 | long=9.07667}}, via Adda :{{marker|type=do|name=Cernobbio, Riva |lat=45.83990 | long=9.07793 }}, piazza Risorgimento :{{marker|type=do|name=Cernobbio, Villa Bernasconi c/o Bar Anagramma |lat=45.83736 |long=9.07268}}, via Regina 7 :{{marker|type=do|name=Como, Serretta del Grumello |lat=45.82190 |long=9.06583}}, via per Cernobbio 11 || :{{marker|type=do|name=Como, Giardino delle Rose |lat=45.81194 | long=9.07608}}, via Sant'Elia 6 :{{marker|type=do|name=Como, Giardino Maggiolini |lat=45.81233 | long=9.08449}}, piazza Verdi :{{marker|type=do|name=Como, Punta |lat=45.82471| long=9.07912}}, piazzetta Baratelli :{{marker|type=do|name=Como, Mulattiera per Brunate |lat=45.81395 |long=9.09703 }}, salita San Donato 6 :{{marker|type=do|name=Brunate, Biblioteca |lat=45.81958 |long= 9.095915}}, via Funicolare 16 :{{marker|type=do|name=Brunate, loc. San Maurizio |lat=45.82564|long=9.10265}}, Via Scalini 66 |} == The itinerary == === 1 - Roggiana Pass, Luigi Dottesio === [[File:Valico Maslianico-Roggiana ITA.jpg|thumb|Roggiana Pass.]] The itinerary starts from the border between [[Italy]] and [[Switzerland]], between the towns of Vacallo and Maslianico, a frontier by the name of '''Roggiana Pass''' (in Italian ''Valico di Roggiana''), one of the very well known smuggling routes between the two countries. :«''Our forefathers erected a statue for him in a sacred place: it would be worthy of the kindness of our present times to grant prestige to our Country with a work of art connecting the ages of our two great fellow citizens, Pliny and Volta''». This is what [[w:Luigi Dottesio|Luigi Dottesio]] wrote about [[w:Pliny the Elder|Pliny the Elder]] in his book ''Biographical Notes on Illustrious Comaschi'', published in 1847 in Switzerland by the [[w:Tipografia Elvetica|Tipografia Elvetica of Capolago]]. The author, back then deputy secretary of the municipality of Como, smuggled prohibited books published by this tipography in the [[w:Kingdom of Lombardy–Venetia|Lombardo-Venetian Kingdom]]. A contraband of culture and ideals which Dottesio paid with his life. He was here, at Roggiana Pass the starting point of this itinerary, arrested on 12 January 1851. He was then hanged in Venice on 11 October 1851. As martyr to press freedom, he leaves in inheritance a biography still today of inspiration. Dottesio was also the first ordinary man to represent Como and its province in official occasions. His sacrifice was for a country which he hoped to be united by its culture. From the Swiss border, one heads towards [[Lake Como]]. '''Distance between the first and second stage:''' 3 km, on foot approx. 30 min slightly downhill. '''Note:''' this distance can be travelled by car, by following an alternative route which avoids pedestrian-only paths, and leaving the car at the Villa Erba Parking in Cernobbio along SP71 - Vecchia Regina. === 2 - Riva di Cernobbio, Vincenzo Monti === [[File:Cernobbio, panorama della riva.jpg|thumb|Cernobbio lakeshore promenade.]] From Roggiana Pass head on along ''via Scaletto'', which then becomes ''via per la Svizzera'' and then ''via Vittorio Emanuele II'', up to the crossroad with ''via Battista Mondelli''. Here turn right, and then continue along ''via Battista Mondelli''' until reaching the junction with ''via Paolo Carcano''. Here turn right again on ''via Paolo Carcano'' and after a few meters take ''via Don Giovanni Minzoni''(pedestrian only road) on the left. At the intersection with ''via XXV Aprile'' turn left and after few meters right, taking another pedestrian only road that leads to ''via Giandrini''. Continue walking along ''via Giandrini'' until reaching a roundabout. Here take the second road on the left (''SP71 - Vecchia Regina'') for a few meters and then turn right on ''via Monti'', that then becomes ''via Besana'', where the second stage of this itinerary is located: '''Villa Besana-Ciani'''. The villa, confined between ''via Besana''' and the ''Riva di Cernobbio'' (lakeshore promenade), was built in the 17th century as a country house for the Londonio family and saw as guest the poet [[w:Vincenzo Monti|Vincenzo Monti]] (1754-1828), one of the most prominent actors of Italian Neoclassicism. In this scenic landscape, which between the 18th and 19th centuries appeared much more wild and verdant than today, Vincenzo Monti sets about thirty lines of the poem ''Feroniade'' dedicated to the daughters of his host, [[w:Carlo Giuseppe Londonio|Carlo Giuseppe Londonio]], a man of letters and a politician. Monti began working at ''Feroniade'' in 1784 but the poem was published posthumous in 1832. In these thirty lines, the poet imagines Londonio's daughters busy gathering violets: ::«''Ambassador of April, hail to'' :: ''thee when through the hedgerows'' :: ''Of pleasant Cernobbio in the morning'' :: ''Isabella and Emilia, soulful maidens,'' :: ''Prey on you and celebrate you, and you, o blessed,'' :: ''Walk through the snow of their virginal bosoms'' :: ''Acquiring new fragrances, Go on! move,'' :: ''O kind violet, these words:'' :: ''In springtime the first flowers greet'' :: ''The roses from Cernobbio».'' In 1869 the villa was purchased by the brothers [[w:Enrico Besana|Carlo ed Enrico Besana]], hence its current name, who turned it into a place of gathering for Lombard patriots. The villa is still today owned by the Besana family and through the years has maintained its original structure and characteristics. The garden with its grand plane and beech trees still preserves its original charm. Before moving on to reach the third stage, one can decide to take a detour to visit the characteristic sites of Cernobbio: the '''lakeshore promenade''' and the '''Giardino della Valle'''. Further details available in [[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#Cernobbio: The Lakeshore and the Giardino della Valle|the section dedicated to deviations]]. '''Distance between the second and third stage:''' little more than 2 km, on foot approx. 25 min of flat standard road. '''Note:''' this distance can be travelled by car, following the road along the lake toward south (towards Como) from the parking Villa Erba along SP71 - Vecchia Regina, to the parking Villa Olmo at Lido di Villa Olmo (this parking can be very busy at summer time). === 3 - Villa del Grumello, Ugo Foscolo === [[File:Villa del Grumello vista dal Lago.jpg|thumb|Villa del Grumello seen from the lake.]] Leaving behind ''' Villa Besana-Ciani''', take the road followed on the outwards up to the turn between ''via Besana'' and ''via Monti''. Here take the pedestrian road on the left that leads to ''via Luigi Erba'' and then follow ''via Luigi Erba'', in the direction opposite to the one leading to the lake, up to the roundabout on ''SP71 - Vecchia Regina''. Here take the first road on the right and continue straight on skirting along the lake shore on ''SP71'' which then becomes ''via per Cernobbio''. At the height of [[w:Villa Sucota|Villa Sucota]], official seat of the Antonio Ratti Foundation and the Textile Museum, leave the main road and follow the trail '''Chilometro della Conoscenza''' (marked as ''KM_C'' and meaning ''The Knowledge Kilometer'') along the path which coasts the lake, thereby reaching the third stage. Marking the arrival is the bust of [[w:Ugo Foscolo|Ugo Foscolo]] (1778-1827), positioned in the gardens of [[w:Villa del Grumello|'''Villa del Grumello''']] and overlooking the lake as if monitoring its first basin. Villa del Grumello is one of the oldest villas on Lake Como. Its original nucleus, positioned at a height above the lake shoreline, dates back to the 16th century. In 1954 its last owners, the Celesia family, donated the villa and the gardens, the greenhouses and guesthouse, to Sant'Anna Hospital of Como and the site became a retirement home. In 2006, thanks to the establishment of the Villa del Grumello Association the villa was renovated. It became the seat of scientific and cultural events and its gardens opened to the public. In order to find the connection between Ugo Foscolo and this villa, one has to go back to its former owners, the Giovio family, and to its member the Count Giovanni Battista. Foscolo fell in love with the count's youngest daughter, Franceschina, to whom he dedicated some lines of the poem ''Le Grazie'', referring explicitly to the lake (''il Lario''): : ''«It is like when the gay Eurus provokes,'' : '' at dawn, the quiet Lario, and with that whisper'' : '' sings the helmsman».'' However, with a letter from Como dated “Borgo Vico 19 Agosto 1809”, Foscolo puts an end to the relationship with Franceschina, and to her dreams of marriage: :''«Finding myself one evening at Grumello, and looking at the lake, the hills and the house where I saw you for the first time, and thinking that I was soon to leave them, my wish to remain there forever did not distinguish between you and the places».'' It is worthwhile to visit the gardens and the greenhouses surrounding the main building. The villa is today home to offices, conference rooms and cannot be visited. The original furniture has been moved and is on display at the Museo Civico di Como. The gardens are open to the public from March to the beginning of November, all Sunday's and festive days between 10:00 and 18:00 (when organising your visit it is recommended to check updated opening hours on the villa's [https://www.villadelgrumello.it/it/ website]). A small stall, as well as one of the Little Free Libraries is inside one of the greenhouses. '''Distance between the third and fourth stage:''' less than 1 km, on foot approx. 10 min along standard road and paths in the park. === 4 - Villa Olmo, Caninio Rufo === [[File:Villa olmo di notte.jpg|thumb|Villa Olmo]] Leaving Villa del Grumello behind, and walking on along the path named '''Chilometro della Conoscenza (KM_C)''' you reach the fourth point of this itinerary: the Neoclassical '''[[w:Villa Olmo|Villa Olmo]]'''. According to [[w:Giovanni Battista Giovio|Giovanni Battista Giovio]] this is the dwelling described by [[w:Pliny the Younger|Pliny the Younger]], precursor of the myth of vacation on Lake Como. In a famous letter, still today translated by high school students, addressed to the poet [[w:Caninio Rufo|Caninio Rufo]] Pliny the Younger writes: :''«How is Como, the city of both my heart and yours? And what about that enchanting suburban estate? And that portico where it is always spring? And that plane-tree walk? And the canal with its purest waters?».'' and addresses to his friend the recommendation: :'' «Design and give shape to something that is forever yours, because chance will grant all your possessions to someone else when you are gone».'' An advice that was not followed by Rufo, as none of his works have reached us, except for citations, such as the one by Pliny who credits Rufo with a poem dedicated to [[w:Trajan|Trajan]] on the conquest of Dacia. Citation which earned Rufo a bust on the façade of the classical studied high school ''Liceo Volta'' of Como. During restoration works performed on the Villa in 2015, a Roman wall was found in the gardens. The discovery was interpreted as a proof of the intuition of Giovanni Giovio. It is worth to take a walk around the gardens before leaving the Villa Olmo. The gardens, reopened in 2018 following renovation works, include numerous [[w:Veteran tree|veteran trees]] amongst which: a majestic cedar of Lebanon ([[w:Cedrus libani|Cedrus libani]]), a horse-chestnut tree ([[w:Aesculus hippocastanum|Aesculus hippocastanum]]), some examples of secular American sycamore ([[w:Platanus occidentalis|Platanus occidentalis]]), a giant sequoia ([[w:Sequoiadendron giganteum|Sequoiadendron giganteum]]), and a red beech ([[w:Fagus sylvatica|Fagus sylvatica]]). The gardens are open from beginning of April to end of September, every day from 07:00 to 23:00, and from beginning of October to end of March, every day from 07:00 to 19:00. The Villa is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 18:00. Access to the gardens is free (when organising your visit it is recommended to check opening hours on the Villa's [http://www.villaolmocomo.it/# website]{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} ). Completed the visit, leave the gardens from the gate opposite to the one used on entrance. Right in front of the gate starts the pedestrian path ''of the Villas of Borgo Vico'' (today named ''passeggiata Lino Gelpi'') that runs along the lake to reach the center of Como. '''Distance between the fourth and fifth stage:''' 500 m, on foot approx. 5 min of flat standard road. '''Note:''' The '''Ponte del Chilometro''', the bridge which passes over ''Strada per Cernobbio'' connecting Villa del Grumello (stage 3) and Villa Olmo (stage 4), is open only on Sundays, from the last Sunday of March until beginning of November, and on holidays, from 10:00 to 19:00. In August the bridge is open all days. In case you take the itinerary on a closure day, it is possible to reach Villa Olmo walking along ''Strada per Cernobbio'' that runs along the lake in the direction of Como. After approx. 300 m the road starts going uphill (for cars), while it remains pedestrian along the lake and brings to Villa Olmo. === 5 - Villa Gallia, Paolo Giovio === [[File:Como-VillaGallia2.jpg|thumb|Villa Gallia]] Leaving behind Villa Olmo, after approximately 1 km walking along a path with the lake shore on one side, and historical Villas on the other side, the fifth stage is reached: ''' Villa Gallia'''. Dating back to the beginning of the XVII century, it is the oldest building amongst all on this promenade. [[w:Paolo Giovio|Paolo Giovio]] (1483-1552), cardinal, but also physician and humanist here built his Villa in 1539, on those which he believes were the ruins of an ancient mansion belonging to [[w:Plinio il Giovane|Plini the Younger]]. Within his villa he created the first museum in the world: the mansion hosted a collection of portrait of illustrious men, a copy of which is displayed at the Uffizi Museum in Florence. Amongst the many pieces, there is the oldest and most common portrait of Christopher Columbus, today on display at the [[w:Pinacoteca Civica di Palazzo Volpi, Como|Civic Art Gallery]] of Como. The poet and cardinal [[w: Pietro Bembo|Pietro Bembo]], paid homage to his contemporary, the precursor of the modern museum, in the sonnet: :''«Giovio, you who collect the times and the works'' :''that are worthy of light in our century'' :''such graceful and fleeting ink'' :''that clear and dear you forever shall live ...»''. The original building, a bold construction jutting out onto the lake, was soon ruined due to the lake's flooding, and was demolished in 1619 by Marco Gallio to make space for the current Villa. Today it is still possible to view the old mansion in three paintings on display at the Civic Art Gallery and at the Archaeological Museum of Como. The Villa has remained the property of the Gallio family until 1772. Today it belongs to the [[w:Province of Como|Province of Como]] and the building and the gardens are not open to the public. Leaving Villa Gallia behind the itinerary continues along the promenade of the Villas towards Como. '''Distance between the fifth and sixth stage:''' less than 1 km, on foot approx. 10 min of flat pedestrian city road. === 6 - War Memorial, Filippo Tommaso Marinetti === [[File:Monumento ai caduti di Como.jpg|thumb|War Memorial]] At the end of the promenade of the Villas/promenade Lino Gelpi, one finds the Como aero club. Following the road that skirts the lake along ''viale Giovanni Puecher'' one then reaches the '''War Memorial''' (in Italian '''Monumento ai Caduti'''). An iconic 30 m tall stone building that looks over the lake: an unmistakable symbol of Como's Skyline. This monument would not exist - in such shape - if it wasn't for the poet and author of the [[w:Manifesto of Futurism|''Manifesto of Futurism (1909)'']], [[w:Filippo Tommaso Marinetti|Filippo Tommaso Marinetti]]. Marinetti came to Como in 1930 to celebrate [[w:Antonio Sant'Elia|Antonio Sant'Elia]], architect and father of the ''Manifesto de L'architettura futurista (1914)''. During his visit, Marinetti promoted a coloured pencil and acquarel drawing of San'Elia representing a tower-lighthouse as inspiration for this monument. The project was then developed and completed by [[w:Giuseppe Terragni|Giuseppe Terragni]] the master of Italian Rationalism architecture. The monument was opened on November 4, 1933, after three years of construction works. Inside the Monument there is a monolith weighting 40 tons, coming from the [[w:Karst Plateau (Italy-Slovenia)|Carso]], on which are engraved the names of 650 natives of Como who fell during the first world war. Amongst the engraved names are also the ones of Sant'Elia, who died at the front in 1916, and of Terragni, who died in 1943 while returning from the [[w:Italian participation in the Eastern Front|''Russian campaign'']]. The founder of Futurism (who died in Bellagio in 1944), the architect of the ''New City'' and the ''Lario'' are all celebrated in the ''Poem in Mourning of F.T. Marinetti'' by the futurist ''aereopoet'' Ubaldo Serbo: :''«death flees it replies sardonically in the water in the water in the water Sant’Elia'' :''reflected dreams...».'' The War Memorial is open to the public every Sunday from April to October. In the months of April, May, June, September and October from 15:00 to 18:00. In July and August from 16:00 to 19:00. A maximum of 15 people per turn are allowed (when organising your visit, it is recommended to check updated opening hours on their [http://www.visitcomo.eu/en/enjoy/what_to_do_in_como/guided-tours/monumento-ai-caduti/index.html website]{{Dead link|date=January 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}). Entrance €4 (full fee), kids under 6 free. '''Distance between the sixth and seventh stage:''' 150 m, on foot few min along the lake promenade. === 7 - Tempio Voltiano, Alessandro Volta === [[File:Tempio Voltiano by night.jpg|thumb|Tempio Voltiano]] The next destination is a few meters away, but due to its prominence, can be seen by the naked eye from the War Memorial. :''«The voltaic pile is the foundation of every modern invention»'' asserted [[w:Albert Einstein|Albert Einstein]] in 1933 in the occasion of its visit at the '''[[w:Tempio Voltiano|Tempio Voltiano]]''', a scientific museum dedicated to the physicist and citizen of Como [[w:Alessandro Volta|Alessandro Volta]] . The Palladian-style monument was designed by the architect [[w:Federico Frigerio|Federico Frigerio]] upon commission by the local entrepreneur [[w:Francesco Somaini|Francesco Somaini]] for the celebrations of the centenary of Volta's death in 1927. The mausoleum hosts a collection of scientific instruments that belonged to Volta, whom not only invented the [[w:electric battery|electric battery]] in 1799 (from which the unit of measure of the ''[[w:Volt|Volt]]), but also discovered [[w:methane|methane]] in 1776, which he used in the [[w:Volta's lamp|''Volta's lamp'']] and in the [[w:Electroflogopneumatic pistol|''electroflogopneumatic pistol'']], the precursors of modern gas lamps and lighters.'' Volta was not only a scientist but also a poet, in a juvenile text Volta describes the space were today rises the monument to him dedicated and were at his times young men used to flirt with their sweethearts: :''«They hang around this girl and that girl'' :''in particular in a certain district'' :''which Prato d’Orchi (Ogre field) we nowadays call».'' The ''ogres'' were the mosquitoes attracted by the mouth of the river [[w:Cosia|Cosia]] that flows into the lake that today runs underground but back then was broad and uncovered. The Tempio Voltiano is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 18:00 (last entrance at 17:30). Entrance €4 (full fee), €2 (reduced fee), kids under 6 free. When organising your visit it is recommended to check the site's [http://www.visitcomo.eu/en/discover/museums/tempio_voltiano/index.html website] for updated on opening hours, extraordinary openings and prices. From the ''Tempio Voltiano'' take the wide pedestrian avenue that opens right in front (''viale Guglielmo Marconi'') up to a crosswalk. Here take ''viale Felice Cavallotti'' straight on until the first crossroad. Taking the road on the right ''via Sant'Elia'' leads to the seventh Little Free Library, which is inside the ''garden of roses''. To continue the itinerary take instead the road on the left ''via Rubini'' that leads to ''piazza Volta''. Cross the ''piazza'' in order to take the road exactly on the opposite side, underneath the arcades (''via Domenico Fontana''). '''Distance between the seventh and eight stage:''' 700 m, on foot approx. 7 min along the lake promenade and on flat pedestrian city road. === 8 - Piazza Cavour, Hermann Hesse === [[File:Hotel Metropole and Piazza Cavour, Como.jpg|thumb|Pizza Cavour, Como.]] Walking along ''via Domenico Fontana'' leads to the eight's stage: '''Piazza Cavour''', and to the discovery of [[w:Heramnn Hesse|Hermann Hesse]], Nobel Prize for Literature in 1946, and of his 1913 ''Walk Around Lake Como'', described in the collection of poems, essays and stories ''Wandering Italy'': :''«Differently from Lugano and all the other lakeside towns, Como turns its back on the lake, and even in the pretty piazza beside the port, you do not have the tedious and disquieting sensation of sitting in the first row of a deliberately created landscape».'' Further in the text Hesse criticise the mountain where this itinerary ends: the liberty style villas that characterise the municipality of Brunate seemed to him squalid and pretentious. But maybe, if he had walked on food the distance between Como and Brunate, along the mule road in the woods as in the next stages of this itinerary, he would have changed his mind! Back to his book, the following day to his arrival in Como, during a boat trip, Hesse doest resist to the charm of the :''«craggy romanticism of steep villages»'' and once reached the pier in [[Torno]], on the western shore of the lake, he didn't even disembark the steamer, describing the scene as: :''«It was such a perfect picture, so enchanting that I didn’t want to break its harmony».'' Hesse then completed his trip in [[Moltrasio]], on the opposite shore of the lake. '''Distance between the eight and ninth stage:''' 250 m, on foot 3 minutes of flat pedestrian city road. === 9 - Duomo of Como (portal), Plinii === [[File:Come - Cathédrale Santa Maria Assunta 11.JPG|thumb|The main facade of the Duomo.]] Leaving ''piazza Cavour'' behind, and taking the street on the left, ''via Caio Plinio Secondo'', leads to the ninth stage which is in ''piazza del Duomo''. The '''[[w:Como Cathedral|Duomo di Como]]''', that stands on the left side, is Lombardy's third largest religious building after the [[w:Milan Cathedral|Cathedral of Milan]] and the [[w:Certosa di Pavia|Certosa of Pavia]]. Construction works began in 1396 and ended in 1744. The facade is dominated by the statues of the two Plinis, both born in Roman time Como. It is something unique to find two pagan figures in such a central position on a religious building. At the time of the [[w:Counter-Reformation|''Counter Reformation'']], the bishop of Vercelli Giovanni Francesco Bonomi, during his apostolic visit in Como proposed the removal of the two statues, works of the masters Tommaso and Giacomo Rodari, and dated 1480, but he had to desist in front of the strong opposition of the population. [[w:Pliny the Elder|Pliny the Elder]] is the author of the work which is commonly considered the first encyclopedia, the ''[[w:Naturalis historia|Naturalis Historia]]'', while [[w:Pliny the Younger|Pliny the Younger]] is the writer of one of history’s most famous collection of classical letters. '''Distance between the ninth and tenth stage:''' 50 m, on foot few min of flat pedestrian city road. === 10 - Duomo of Como (south facade), Caecilius === [[File:Como 056.JPG|thumb|The south facade of the Duomo.]] Having the main portal in front, look right and then turn left to admire the '''South facade of the Cathedral'''. Amongst the many statues that decorate this facade, stands out that of a male figure with an open book in his hands: Caecilius, Latin poet of the I century b.C. This is the third pagan figure represented on the Cathedral of Como. No writings have reached us of this author. Caecilius is only known through the writing of [[w:Catullo|Catullo]], who dedicates to him a poem (Poem 35) where he narrates that Caecilius had been held in Como by a young lady, that had fallen in love with him after reading his poem dedicated to Cybele: :''«I would like you, papyrus, / to tell Caecilius, the love poet, my friend / to come to Verona, leaving /'' :''the walls of New Comum and the Larian shore / for I wish him to receive / certain thoughts of a friend of his and mine.'' :''I forgive you, girl more learned than Sappho’s / muse: for the Great Mother of Caecilius / is elegantly underway».'' '''Distance between the tenth and eleventh stage:''' 100 m, on foot few min of flat pedestrian city road. === 11 - Town Theatre, Mary Shelley === [[File:Teatro Sociale - i palchi.jpg|thumb|The interior of the Town Theatre.]] Walking on along the Cathedral leads to ''piazza Verdi'', a square dominated on the right by the grand [[w:Teatro Sociale, Como|'''Teatro Sociale''']] (Town Theatre). The theatre was built between 1813 and 1821 and had the honour to host a season of the theatre '' La Scala'' of Milano, when this was damaged by the bombings of the second world war. The theatre is also mentioned in the anecdotes of [[w:Mary Shelley|Mary Shelley]], in her 1844 book [[w:Rambles in Germany and Italy|''Rambles in Germany and Italy'']]. On August 15, 1844 Mary Shelly comes to the theatre to see the [[w:Lucia di Lammermoor|''Lucia di Lammermoor'']], an opera by Donizetti. In such occasion she admires the ''curtain'' (''velario'') picturing Pliny the Elder, painted by [[w:Alessandro Sanquirico|Alessandro Sanquirico]] in 1812. The frequentation of Como and its surroundings offered to the writer the cultural background for the most famous of her works: [[w:Frankenstein|''Frankestein'' or ''The Modern Prometheus'']] . The references to Volta and the Plinii are found starting from the first chapter when Doctor Frankenstein is amused by the studies on electricity that he abandons the readings of the historical naturalists from the past, with the exception of Pliny and Bufforn, defined as ''«useful as well as interesting»''. Furthermore, in the second edition of the book, Mary Shelly, changes the story of the scientist half-sister/wife, Elizabeth, making her the daughter of an Italian patriot, imprisoned by the Austrians and adopted by the Frankensteins while on a trip to Como. Arrived at this stage of the itinerary, one can choose amongst two alternatives. The main itinerary heads towards the twelve stage, walking a couple of km along the east lakeside promenade and then heads back to the Teatro Sociale, continues to the thirteenth stage and then towards the mule track that leads to [[Brunate]] (the fourteenth stage). A first alternative is to postpone the twelve stage to the end, and thus continue with the thirteenth stage and the rest of the itinerary until the end, and then visit the twelve stage after taking the funicular from Brunate back to Como. A second alternatives, recommended for those who do not want to walk the mule track uphill, is to go to the thirteenth stage, then come back to the eleventh stage, and then from here take the east lakeside promenade to reach the twelve stage. Halfway between the eleventh and twelve stage there is the Como - Brunate funicular, that can be taken to reach the fourteenth stage on the way back from the twelve stage. More details are supplied in [[Lake_Como_Poetry_Way#From Como to Brunate with the Funicular|the section dedicated to deviations]]. '''Distance between the eleventh and twelfth stage:''' approx. 2 km, on foot approx. 20 min of city sidewalks along the lakeside. '''Distance between the eleventh and thirteenth stage:''' approx. 600 m, on foot approx. 5 min of flat pedestrian city road. === 12 - Piazzetta Baratelli, August Strindberg === [[File:Villa Geno fountain on Lake Como.jpg|thumb|Punta Geno]] From the Teatro Sociale, cross ''piazza Verdi'', then take ''via Rodari'' which opens on ''piazza Roma''. On the opposite side of the square take the pedestrian path between the Albergo Terminus and Palace Hotel, which leads to the lake. Cross the road on ''Lungolario Trieste'' and then walk on keeping the lake on the left side. After the touristic harbour the roads opens on ''piazza De Gasperi'' where the station for the [[w:Como–Brunate funicular|funicular]] that leads to Brunate stands. Walking on, always along the lakeside promenade, the road arrives at the lookout of ''Punta Geno''. Here rises Villa Geno, where the city lazaret of San Clemente was once located, as remembered by the Swedish writer [[w:August Strindberg|August Strindberg]] in his book ''From Italy''. In the book the writer reports this anecdote of his boat trip from Como to [[Blevio]]: :''«We pass under budding weeping willows, near an English villa. There is a small pavilion on a spit of land. Through an iron-barred window, a host of curious faces look out, but I’m surprised to see that they all have a white head».'' :''«Of course, they’re skulls, souvenirs of the «great plague»'', the boatman tells him. Strindberg then returned to Como on foot along the ancient Strada Regia which: :''«below chestnut and walnut trees, climbed up beside a rock face and, passing silk mills, got into town».'' Walking further on a few meters, one arrives in '''piazzetta Baratelli''' where there is another Little Free Library. '''Distance between the twelfth and thirteenth stage:''' approx. 2.5 km, on foot approx. 25 min of city sidewalks along the lakeside and of flat pedestrian city road. === 13 - Museo civico, Giacomo Leopardi === [[File:Como Museo Civico.JPG|thumb|The facade of the Museo civico.]] From ''piazzetta Baratelli'' get back on your foot and reach again the Teatro Sociale. Once at the theatre, keep the building on the left and take ''via Bellini''. At the end of the street turn right in ''via Indipendenza'' and then take the first on the left ''via Vittorio Emanuele''. Walking straight on leads to ''piazza Medaglie d'Oro'' where the '''Museo civico'' of Como is located. Amongst the many objects on display in the museum, there is a juvenile manuscript by [[W:Giacomo Leopardi|Giacomo Leopardi]] dated 1816 that goes by the title of ''Death’s approach'' (Appressamento della morte). The manuscript was found in 1862 by Zanino Volta, nephew of the scientist [[w:Alessandro Volta|Alessandro]], in an abandoned area of the family mansion at 62, Via Volta, in Como. It is thought that the manuscript had been given for reading to [[w:Pietro Giordani|Pietro Giordani]], and then passed on to Volta. Leopardi came to Como in 1825 trying to recover the manuscript but without success. The Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00 (last entrance 17:30). Entrance €4 (full fee), €2 (reduced fee), kids under 6 free. When organising your visit it is recommended to check the museum's [http://www.visitcomo.eu/en/discover/museums/museo-archeologico/index.html website] for updated on opening hours, extraordinary openings and prices. '''Distance between the thirteenth and fourteenth stage:''' approx. 2.5 km, on foot approx. 60 min first of city sidewalks slightly uphill and then uphill along the mule road (difference in level 450 m). === 14 - Mule Road Como-Brunate, Alda Merini === [[File:Eremo di San Donato Salita per Brunate.jpg|thumb|San Donato hermitage.]] From the Museo Civico the itinerary continues along ''via Balestra'' that leads out of the perimeter of the medieval walls of the city at the height of the San Vitale Tower. Crossed the rail crossing take ''via Grossi'' until it turns and changes its name to ''via per Brunate''. Here on the left there is a stairway: the beginning point of the '''Como-Brunate mule track''. On the way is another Little Free Library. The mule track climbs along the mountain in a series of turns leading to the ''Hermitage of San Donato'' (Eremo di San Donato). Before reaching the Eremo there are two crossroads, at the first the itinerary keeps on the left, at the second on the right, always walking uphill. The Eremo was built in the 15th century on the place where a sighting tower was located, which then became the bell tower of the church. In 1772, the place lost its original function of convent. Few years later it was sold and transformed into a private house, which still is today. From the Eremo the mule road continues first encountering the main road and then arriving in the town of Brunate. A few meters after the road becomes asphalted stands the ''Chapel of the sacred family'' (Cappelletta della Sacra Famiglia). The mule road built in 1817 is since 2019 dedicated to the poet [[w:Alda Merini|Alda Merini]]. The Poet is closely linked to the territory as her father was from Brunate, and was the son of a count disinherited after deciding to marry a peasant. To commemorate the poet, a literary prize was instituted in 2011 in the so-called ''Balcony on the Alps'' (the other name with which the town of Brunate is known). '''Distance between the fourteenth and fifteenth stage:''' 300 m, on foot approx. 5 min of standard city road. === 15 - Public Gardens Alessandro Volta, Penčo Slavejkov === [[File:Bellavista Boutique Hotel & Restaurant.jpg|thumb|The building ''Hotel Bellavista''.]] The mule road ends in the town of Brunate. The asphalt road which has taken the place of the mountain road terminates in ''via Volta''. Crossed the road on the right there is the pedestrian path that leads to the town hall and from there to ''via Monti''. Crossed ''via Monti'' the path continues for 20 meters until a crossroad, here take the left and after a few steps one finds himself in ''piazza Bonacossa'', where there is also the top station of the funicular. Arriving on the square on the right one can easily notice the fountain, and next to the fountain a small staircase leading to the ''' Public Gardens Alessandro Volta'''. Inside the gardens is a bronze bust of the Bulgarian poet [[w:Penčo Slavejkov|Penčo Slavejkov]]. The bust was positioned here in 2007 by the Bulgarian government on the occasion of the 95° anniversary from the death of the poet who had chosen Brunate as the place where to spend the last years of his life. Here Slavejkov lodged at the [[c:Category:Hotel Bellavista (Brunate)|Hotel Bellavista]], a building of a bright yellow colour which can be seen from the gardens. In remembrance of the distinguished guest a plaque has been positioned on the hotel's outside wall, with the following lines: :''«Let God grant that I should end my days here'' :''Alone and away from my native soil».'' '''Distance between the fifteenth and sixteenth stage:''' 1.5 km, on foot approx. 25 min uphill along city road and then along another mule road (difference in level 150 m). === 16 - Faro Voltiano === [[File:Faro Voltiano Brunate.jpg|thumb|Faro Voltiano seen from below.]] To end the itinerary, leave the gardens from the exit left of the public library. The pedestrian passage brings to the square of the church which has to be crossed to reach ''via Beata Maddalena Albrici''. After a few meters turn right and keep on ''via Beata Maddalena Albrici'': here the uphill road starts. At the end of the street continue on the left on ''via Scalini''. After the crossroad with ''via Varesello'' on the right of ''via Scalini'' starts the mule road to ''San Maurizio''. The mule road goes uphill crossing many times the main motorable road, and meets with the same on the square in front of the ''San Maurizio'' church. In the green area in the center of the square there is the last of the Little Free Library of this itinerary. Right in front of the church there is the last part of ''via Scalini'', that leads to the '''Faro Voltiano'''. Inside the lighthouse, 143 steps of a spiral staircase lead to the balcony of the lantern from which to admire a large portion of the Alpine arc, as well as an overview of the itinerary from Cernobbio to here. For opening hours of the Faro Voltiano see the operator's [https://www.comune.brunate.co.it/index.php/it/archivio-news/avvisi-dal-comune/item/105-orari-apertura-faro-voltiano web page] {{dead link|December 2020}}. Entrance €2 (full fee), €1 (reduced fee up to 18 years). == Deviations == === Cernobbio: The Lakeshore and the ''Giardino della Valle'' === Arrived at the second stage, Villa Besana Ciani, before heading towards the third stage it is worth to take a short visit to Cernobbio, reaching two Little Free Libraries. From Villa Besana Ciani, walk on along the street until reaching the crossroad with ''via Garibaldi''. On the right opens up ''piazza Risorgimento'', characterised by the [[c:Category:Fontana di Piazza Risorgimento (Cernobbio)|marble fountain]] and from where you can see a panoramic view over all the first basin of the lake. Today Cernobbio Lakeshore is a large and green promenade, with trees, benches, bars/restaurants, at the end of which is the Liberty-style pier (built in 1906) from which to take one of the boats to discover the lake. Along the shore there are also the monuments dedicated to Garibaldi and to the war dead. In ''piazza Risorgimento'' is one of the Free Little Libraries of Cernobbio. Going back to ''via Garibaldi'' and walking until the end one reaches ''via Vecchia Regina''. Turning right and walking for 400 meters one finds on the left ''via Adda''. This dead end road leads to the ''Giardino della Valle'' ([http://www.ilgiardinodellavalle.it web site]), a botanical garden build out of an illegal dump. Inside the garden there is another Free Little Library. === From Como to Brunate with the funicular === Brunate can be reached also with the funicular. The base station of the funicular is in ''piazza De Gasperi'' on the lake promenade approximately halfway between the eleventh and twelve stages. Timetable and prices of the funicular are available on [http://www.funicolarecomo.it/oraricentro.htm the website]: the ride lasts approx. 10 min, during high season take into account the possibility of having to queue at the station to wait for the second or third ride. In Brunate, the funicular arrival station opens on ''piazza Alberto Bonacossa''. From here walking towards the artificial waterfall that closes the square north it is easy to identify the stairs that lead to the gardens where there is the bust of Pencho Slavejkov, fifteenth stage of this itinerary. ==Stay safe== No specific risks on this itinerary. Como and the surroundings are generally quite safe places. Since part of the itinerary is uphill and along old mule roads, as indicated at the beginning, it is recommended to wear good and comfortable shoes, and if approaching the itinerary on a spring or summer day remember to bring water with you. ==Go next== Como is a good starting place to explore Lake Como: it is easily reached from Milano, and from Malpensa Airport, as well as from Switzerland and northern Europe. From here one can go walking/hiking on the surrounding mountains (many one day trips possible) or simply enjoy the lake, its Villas and towns. {{related|Europe}} {{usableitinerary}} {{PartOfItinerary|Europe itineraries}} 4m96i5c4n5bvckewacaaouhgqm4fhpi 0 179910 5090811 5053916 2025-07-10T13:33:51Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090811 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia}} '''Kushtia''' is a city of about 850,000 people in the [[Southern Bangladesh|southern]] region of Bangladesh. ==Understand== Located about 150 km west of Dhaka, Kushtia sits on the Bengal Plain along the Padma River, or to be more precise, the Gorai-Madhumati River that branches off from the Padma. With a mean temperature of about 23°C and 1,467 mm of rainfall annually, it's rather sultry. Kushtia was founded in the 17th century under the Mughal emperor Shahjahan, but didn't develop much until the British arrived and set up indigo production. By 1860, fomenting unrest against the British resulted in the Indigo Riot across Bangladesh, with its first onset here. After that and the Partition of India in 1947, Kushtia became a central player in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, with several battles taking place between the Pakistanis and Mukti Bahini in this locale. Kushtia is probably best known for being the birthplace or home of noteworthy figures like Indian freedom fighter Bagha Jatin, writer Mir Mosharraf Hossain, poet Rabindranath Tagore, and iconic philosopher Lalon Fakir. The latter two have landmarks associated with them in the city. ==Get in== There is no commercial air service to Kushtia, as the closest commercial airports are in Rajshahi or Dhaka. Hanif Enterprise [phone: 01911-920666; email: info@vromonbilash.com (good luck getting English)] offers bus service between Dhaka and Kushtia, about a 5.5-hour journey, with ticket price around Tk 600, depending on the bus type. ==Get around== Just hail a CNG or auto rickshaw to get you wherever you need to go, or drive. Walking around in the sticky heat might get old fast. ==See== [[File:Tomb Lalon.jpg|thumb|Tomb Lalon]] * {{see | name=Lalon Shah's Mazar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lalon Shah Rd | lat=23.89576 | long=89.15208 | directions=on E side of town | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Lalon | lastedit=2020-08-03 | content=The Institute set up by Lalon Shah Fakir, a prominent Bengali philosopher and songwriter who emphasized tolerance and social harmony and inspired many, including Allen Ginsburg. The anniversary of his death draws thousands of disciples every year. }} [[File:Tagore Kuthibari.jpg|thumb|Tagore Kuthibari]] * {{see | name=Rabindranath Tagore's Shilaidaha Kuthibari | alt=শিলাইদহ রবীন্দ্র কুঠিবাড়ি | url=http://www.archaeology.gov.bd/ | email= | address=Kumarkhali 7010, Bangladesh | lat=23.91971 | long=89.22001 | directions=take R713 Kuthbari Rd out of Kushtia to destination | phone=+880 1712551016 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-5PM, closed Su | price= | wikipedia=Shilaidaha | lastedit=2020-08-03 | content=Country home where the well-known author Rabindranath Tagore (author of Gitanjali) lived and worked during part of his life, like the other one in Sirajganj District. This place is very popular. }} * {{see | name=Municipality Museum | alt=পৌর জাদুঘর | url= | email= | address=at western terminus of NS Road | lat=23.91104 | long=89.12234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-5PM, closed F Sa | price= | lastedit=2020-08-04 | content=A museum showcasing the history and culture and famous people of Kushtia. }} * {{see | name=Mir Mosharraf Hossain Memorial Library, Auditorium & Museum | alt=মীর মশাররফ হোসেনের অডিটোরিয়াম ও লাইব্রেরী | url= | email= | address= | lat=23.88280 | long=89.17208 | directions=on Dhaka-Kushtia Hwy, just west of the Mir Mosharraf Hossain bridge | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa-Th 9AM-4PM, closed F | price= | lastedit=2020-08-04 | content=A museum that depicts the life of Mir Mosharraf Hossain, the famous Bengali writer best known for his novel Bishad Sindhu. }} ==Do== Relax on the ghat of the Gouia-Madhumati or Pabma Rivers or at Renwick Park alongside the river. This may end up being the most enjoyable activity of all after being around a swarm of tuk tuks all day. * {{do | name=Renwick Park & Resort | alt= | url= | email= | address=Renwick Badh Rd | lat=23.91622| long=89.12405 | directions=~50 steps west of Kushtia Horipur Bridge | phone=+880 1724298482 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 7AM-6PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-04 | content=Sort of a public beach resort along the river where you can hire a boat for a ride or just relax. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Municipality Bazar | alt=মিউনিসিপালিটি বাজার | url= | email= | address=NS Road | lat=23.90695 | long=89.13187 | directions= | phone=+880 1711355928 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 5AM-11PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-03 | content=Boisterous market with fish, vegetables, supplies. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Chili's Food Park | alt=চিলি'স ফুড পার্ক | url= | email= | address=boimela | lat=23.90695 | long=89.13187 | directions=on opposite side of street from public library | phone=+880 1711706052 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-08-03 | content=Biryani and beef pizza, mmm. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== Good choices are very limited in Kushtia, sadly. * {{sleep | name=Hotel Noor International | alt=হোটেল নূর ইন্টারন্যাশনাল | url=https://hotel-noor-international.business.site/ | email=hotel.noor.int@gmail.com | address=Rajdhani Complex, Upazilla More | lat=23.89969 | long=89.11753 | directions=next to intersection of N704 and Upazilla Rd and rifle club | phone=+880 1778897792 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2023-03-31 | content=Laundry, WiFi and a/c. It's in a crumbly-looking building, not inviting-looking at all, but it's about the best Kusthia has to offer. Has a red Hero awning in front and Desha Tower behind. }} * {{sleep | name=Desha Tower | alt=দিশা টাওয়ার | url=http://www.deshatarc.com/ | email= | address= | lat=23.89911 | long=89.11808 | directions= | phone=+880 1720510330 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2020-08-05 | content=This is like the crystal tower rising out of the rubble. Full dining and amenities. }} ==Connect== ==Go next== * {{see | name=Mujibnagar Complex | alt=মুজিবনগর কমপ্লেক্স | url= | email= | address= | lat=23.64747 | long=88.59484 | directions=~75 km southwest of Kushtia on R745 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 6AM-7PM | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-04 | content=Those interested in Bangladesh's independence from Pakistan might find this monument where Bangladesh's provisional government, in other words, declaration of independence from Pakistan, was forged in April of 1971. It is a long way from Kushtia. }} {{IsPartOf|Southern Bangladesh}} {{usablecity}} {{geo|23.910125|89.163115|zoom=13}} gvrcwr1evtv86vmjpi553jmza0ruzrl 0 180981 5091139 4892506 2025-07-11T01:51:50Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Trails */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091139 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Sipoonkorpi Natp.jpg}} '''[https://www.nationalparks.fi/sipoonkorpinp Sipoonkorpi National Park]''' (Fi. ''Sipoonkorven kansallispuisto'', Sw. ''Sibbo storskogs nationalpark'') is in [[Uusimaa]], one of two national parks reaching into the Capital Region (the other is [[Nuuksio National Park]]). ==Understand== [[File:Sipoonkorpi 046.jpg|thumb|View from a hill]] Sipoonkorpi is in the far east of the Capital Region, around the tri-point of [[Helsinki]], [[Sipoo]] and [[Vantaa]] and north of it. In addition to Nuuksio, it's one of two national parks this close to Helsinki, about 25 km northeast of [[Helsinki/Central|downtown]]. ===History=== The park was established in 2011 and so it's one of the newest national parks in the country. During the spring of 2020 traveling and going to events, indoor entertainment and hospitality establishments was restricted by law due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]]. Heading out in the nature was one of the few things safe to do away from home, and so the park became extremely popular. ===Landscape=== Mostly coniferous forest, interspersed with meadows and barren hills. ===Flora and fauna=== <!-- https://www.nationalparks.fi/sipoonkorpinp/nature--> One of the last large wildernesses this close to the capital, in Sipoonkorpi you can reportedly encounter all mammal and bird species that are common in Southern Finland. The signature animal of the park, as depicted in its logo, is the Eurasian eagle owl (''bubo bubo''). ===Climate=== The climate is basically the same as in [[Helsinki#Climate|Helsinki]], though it may be a degree or two colder in the winter and warmer in the summer. ==Get in== {{mapframe}} You can get in by car, but there may be limited parking. Other possible options are by bus or by bike. ===Parking areas=== Here are dedicated parking areas in and near the park. During the summer of 2020, inconsiderate visitors have parked their vehicles along roads in great numbers, much to the irritation of the people who live there, so avoid that. * {{go | name=Källängen | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.3523 | long=25.1973| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-24 | content=Space for 12 cars. }} * {{go | name=Byabäcken | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.3486 | long=25.2100 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-24 | content=Space for 21 cars. }} * {{go | name=Kuusijärvi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.3148 | long=25.1123 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-24 | content=Space for 250 cars. }} * {{go | name=Helgträsk | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.3085 | long=25.2017| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-24 | content=Space for 37 cars. }} * {{go | name=Flatberget | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.2810 | long=25.1561 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-24 | content=Space for 34 cars, further down the road a smaller parking with space for 19 cars. }} * {{go | name=Hakunila Sports Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= |lat=60.2789 | long=25.1233 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-24 | content=Space for 190 cars. }} * {{go | name=Knuters | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.2814 | long=25.1946 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-24 | content=Space for 160 cars. }} ===By bus=== There are many public buses plying the roads around the park. Consult the [https://reittiopas.hsl.fi/ public transportation route planner]{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }} for the Helsinki area to see routes and schedules for where in the park you want to go. Starting in central Helsinki you will need either an ABC or ABCD ticket. Mostly the bus stop is 1.5–2.5 km from the trail heads. Since 2021 there is also a hop-on/hop-off bus: * {{go | name=Packalén Bus | alt= | url=https://www.packalenbus.fi | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+358 50-337-6997 | tollfree= | hours=[https://packalenbus.fi/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Sibbo-Storskog-tidtabell-10.4.2021-QR2.pdf Th–Su 08:45–17:50] | price=Single €4.50/2.50, family (2+3) €12, day ticket €8/2.50 (children 4–12 year) | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=Hop-on/hop-off bus via the '''[[Vantaa#By train|Tikkurila]]''' (Dickursby) train station, the '''[[Sipoo#Get in|Nikkilä]]''' (Nickby) library, the restaurant Tila and most trail heads. }} ==Fees and permits== Like other [[Finnish national parks]], there's no entrance fee. The [[Right to access in the Nordic countries|right to access]] mostly applies. ==Get around== In the park it's allowed to get around by foot, ski, non-motorized water vessels (e.g. rowing boat or canoe), horse or bike. There's a network of hiking trails in the park, but notably there are no such trails to the northeastern "exclave" Byabäcken, so you will have to navigate through the forest of walk along country roads. There are also two dedicated nature trails, one of which is around Byabäcken. During the winter there are skiing trails in the western part of the park from Jokivarsi to Hakunila, providing there's enough snow (for instance the winter 2019-20 was essentially snow-free in southern Finland). ==See== <!--https://julkaisut.metsa.fi/assets/pdf/lp/Esitteet/sipoonkorpifinsveeng.pdf--> * {{see | name=Byabäcken | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.3422 | long=25.2278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-13 | content=Byabäcken is a tributary stream to Sipoo river. A section of it was declared a Natura 2000 protection area by the EU already before the establishment of the park. The stream flows past forest, small hills and pastures with grazing cows and a multitude of flowers in the summer. The area has a nature trail, a well and overnighting facilities. }} * {{see | name=Kuusijärvi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.3120 | long=25.1150 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-13 | content=Lake Kuusijärvi isn't in the park, but next to it, and a notable entry point to the park across the Sipoonkorpi pedestrian bridge. The lake is a popular place for swimming both summer and winter and there's a café. }} * {{see | name=Bisajärvi | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.3064 | long=25.1451 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-13 | content=A little pond halfway between Kuusijärvi and Kalkkiruukki. Interestingly it's shape is reminiscent of Finland, but turned upside down. You can swim here, and there's a picnic area. }} * {{see | name=Kalkkiruukki | alt= | url= | email= | address= |lat=60.2961 | long=25.1578| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-13 | content=One of the park's cultural highlights, this is a historical limestone mine and kiln with a trail leading you around the premises and up to Högberget hill with nice views. }} * {{see | name=Bakunkärr | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.2968 | long=25.1959 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-13 | content=A swampy pond with a picnic area nearby. }} * {{see | name=Fiskträsk | alt= | url= | email= | address= |lat=60.3121 | long=25.2195| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-13 | content=Fairly easily accessible, eventhough not next to a road. Has a picnic area. }} * {{see | name=Storträsk | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.2714 | long=25.1588 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2020-10-13 | content=Not next to a road but the trail there as well as the toilet is disabled-friendly. Fishing in the lake requires two permits (see below), but if lucky you may catch rainbow trout that have been introduced here. }} ==Do== [[File:Byabäcken.jpg|thumb|The Byabäcken stream]] ===Trails=== There are two dedicated nature trails in the park. * {{do | name=Byabäcken Nature Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.3483 | long=25.2103| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-23 | content=Length: 2.1 km. The trail goes around the Byabäcken stream. }} * {{do | name=Kalkinpolttaja Trail | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=60.3005 | long=25.1569 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-23 | content=Length: 4.8 km. Around the area of a historical limestone mine and lime kiln. There are great views from the hill Högberget. }} ===Food from the nature=== [[Foraging]] of berries and mushrooms is allowed (not so for flowers and other plants). Bilberries (''vaccinium myrtillus'') are particularly abundant, and you can also find lingonberries (''vaccinium vitis-idaea''), crowberries (''empetrum nigrum'') bog bilberries (''vaccinium uliginosum''). On the mushroom side, you can find for instance chanterelles (''cantharellus cibarius''), and somewhat more frequently funnel chanterelles (''craterellus tubaeformis'') but when picking mushrooms be absolutely sure to know you're picking the right species and not poisonous ones that are reminiscent of the ones you want to pick. The season for foraging is roughly July to early October. [[Fishing]] is allowed with some restrictions, and is entirely banned in the streams Byabäcken, Ritobäcken and Hälsängsbäcken. Ice fishing and fishing with a simple rod without a reel and lure requires no permit – usage of those requires a [https://www.eraluvat.fi/en/fishing/fishing-permits.html national fishing permit] that you can [https://verkkokauppa.eraluvat.fi/en/fisheries-management-fee/ buy online] at the Forest department's website. Lake Storträsk has another restriction; if you want to fish at all you will need both the national fishing permit and a [http://www.stortrask.com/luvanmyyntipaikat.html separate permit] on top of that that you can buy in Cafe Kuusijärvi or paying online (the bank receipt functions as your permit but website with instructions is in Finnish only). ==Buy== In the park there are no shops. The closest grocery stores are the {{Marker|type=buy|lat=60.3461 | long=25.1332|name=K Supermarket in Nikinmäki}}, and several stores in {{Marker|type=buy|lat=60.3768 | long=25.2724|name=Sipoo (Nikkilä)}}, {{Marker|type=buy|lat=60.3506 | long=25.0797|name=Korso}}, {{Marker|type=buy|lat=60.3232 | long=25.0596|name=Koivukylä}} and {{Marker|type=buy|lat=60.2784 | long=25.1068|name=Hakunila}}, and a {{Marker|type=buy|lat=60.2511 | long=25.1741|name=K market in Östersundom}}. If you need outdoor gear, the shops in the {{Marker|type=buy|lat=60.2789 | long=25.0866|name=Porttipuisto shopping area}} are the closest places. ==Eat== There are two places to eat in the vicinity; other than that, bring your own food. * {{eat | name=Café Kuusijärvi | alt= | url=https://www.cafekuusijarvi.fi/kahvilaravintola | email= | address=Kuusijärventie 3 | lat=60.31370 | long=25.11322| directions=Vantaa | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-23 | content=Café at Lake Kuusijärvi also serving burgers and other fast food. }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant Tila | alt= | url=https://www.ravintolatila.com/en/ | email= | address=Knutersintie 262 | lat=60.31462 | long=25.20184 | directions=Sipoo | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-10-23 | content=Upscale restaurant adjacent to the park. }} ==Drink== There's a well at the Bergström house (Bergströmin torppa) in the Byabäcken area. Drinking from ponds and streams would problably not be a good idea – roads and agriculture aren't too far away. Fortunately tap water is perfectly drinkable in Finland, just fill up some bottles before your trip to bring along. ==Sleep== [[File:Sipoonkorpi 005.jpg|thumb|Lean-to in Kalkkiruukki]] ===Lodging=== There are no hotels or lodges in or near the park. ===Camping=== In Ängesböle in the Byabäcken area, as well as at Kalkkiruukki there are camping areas and lean-to shelters. ===Backcountry=== Camping is only allowed in the two places mentioned above. However outside the national park the [[Right to access in the Nordic countries|right to access]] applies normally and you can pitch up a tent anywhere you like for one night provided you don't disturb anyone else. ==Respect== While the right to access allows visitors to freely enjoy the nature, visitors also have the responsibility to keep the nature as it is. It's OK to collect berries and mushrooms and to some extent fishing is allowed as well. Other animals (including their homes such as birdnests) as well as farm animals, trees and plants, rocks and earth must be left alone. Driving motorized vehicles in the park, littering, trampling fields, letting pets move around freely (i.e. not keeping them on a leash), and making campfires outside designated fire sites are also prohibited. ==Stay safe== There aren't that many dangers in the park other than perhaps slipping or tripping over. Chances of encountering a bear or wolf is theoretical at most and something that would make it to the news. Mosquitoes, while not spreading any diseases, may be a nuisance during the summer. Adapt your clothing to the weather. Cell phone coverage is generally good in the park, but if the coverage is weak, get to a higher place. ==Go next== To the west there's the Capital Region with a lot of mainly urban sights. To the east there's Sipoo and Porvoo and historical places along the [[King's Road (Finland)|King's Road]]. {{IsPartOf|Uusimaa}} {{usablepark}} {{geo|60.303|25.180}} cwu8tfon5j1i7wwqzryxom0mazrpa7l 0 185159 5091155 4932612 2025-07-11T02:21:10Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* See */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091155 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Vigevano''' is in [[Lombardy]]. It is an Italian town of 62,064 inhabitants in the province of Pavia in [[Lombardy]]. == Understand == An industrial center of national importance, Vigevano is known for having long been one of the main shoe production centers in the world. The first industrial model shoe factory was built there in 1866, opening a season that in the following century would have led the capital of Lomellino to produce tens of millions of shoes exported all over the world, earning the nickname of "shoe capital". Even today, the International Shoe Museum, housed in the premises of the Castello Sforzesco, preserves the evidence of a crucial period in Italian industrial history. The municipality is the second in the province by number of inhabitants after the capital and first by surface, included entirely in the Lombard natural park of the Ticino Valley. It has long enjoyed various autonomies in the course of its history, already a free municipality federated in the second Lombard League and capital of Vigevanasco, as well as a bishopric. It was also the first Lombard city to have obtained the title of city in modern times. === Geographical notes === Vigevano is in the north-eastern Lomellina, on the right bank of the Ticino river, which separates it from the province of Milan. It is about 38 km from Pavia, 36 km from the center of Milan, 27 km from Novara, 14 km from Mortara, 12 km from Abbiategrasso. Vigevano is approximately 70 from Lodi and Alessandria, 100 from Piacenza, 130 from Turin and 140 from Brescia. The landscape, being Vigevano inside the Po Valley, is flat. Vigevano borders with Abbiategrasso, Bereguardo, Besate, Borgo San Siro, Cassolnovo, Cilavegna, Gambolò, Gravellona Lomellina, Morimondo, Mortara, Motta Visconti and Parona. === When to go === The climate is temperate sub-continental, with humid and very cold winters (average 3.1 ° C), and very hot and equally humid summers (average 21.7 ° C). Precipitation reaches its maximum peak in October (122 mm) and the minimum peak in July (58 mm). == Get in == === By car === The town is crossed by the state road 494 Vigevanese which, passing through Vigevano, connects Milan to Alessandria. To reach Vigevano the advice is to follow the directions below: * from Milan take the west ring road: take the West ring road and take the SP ex SS 494 towards Abbiategrasso; or take the Milan - Genoa motorway to the Gropello Cairoli exit. [[File:Vigevano staz ferroviaria esterno.jpg|thumb|Railway station]] * from Turin leave the A4 motorway at Novara, exit East. * from Genoa leave the A7 motorway in Gropello, Cairoli exit * from Milan Linate airport follow the direction of Bologna / Tangenziale Ovest - Exit at Vigevano-Lorenteggio, direction for Vigevano. * from Milan Malpensa airport, take the SS 336 super highway towards Magenta; then follow the signs for Abbiategrasso and Vigevano. Cross Robecco sul Naviglio and then Abbiategrasso and continue towards Vigevano. === By train === From Milan: it can be reached from Milano P.ta Genova (MM2) or Milano San Cristoforo (MM2) direction Mortara - Alessandria. == Get around == == See == [[File:Vigevano0002.jpg|thumb|Torre del Bramante]] {{listing | name=Torre del Bramante | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-06-08 | content=The origin of the tower, at the highest point of the city near the castle, dates back to 1198 and was finished by Bramante at the end of the 15th century, while in the 17th century the baroque "onion" dome was added to replace the original one. conical spire. The tower has an original shape which, in the 15th century, was the model for the Filarete tower in the Castello Sforzesco in Milan; it is made up of sections that narrow as you approach the top. From the terraces it is possible to admire an excellent view of the Piazza Ducale, the castle and the whole city. 75 m high from the level of the square (57 m from the level of the court), the Torre del Bramante is the current Civic Tower of the city of Vigevano, of which it has always been the symbol. Furthermore, with its 57 m it is the tallest structure in the city of Vigevano. it is created by overlapping three floors sloping upwards. The first terrace is enclosed by the Ghibelline battlements, the upper section houses the clock, while the last contains the 17th-century bell. At the top rises the octagonal belvedere that crowns the tower. The belfry, inaccessible to the public, houses "il campanone", a large 17th-century bell "split" out of necessity. In fact, in the 19th century there were no modern electronic systems to control the bells, and the tower clock, mechanical at the time, struck every half hour even at night. It seems that the sound of the "big bell" was so loud that the inhabitants of the houses leaning against the castle and the piazza were practically unable to fall asleep. So they presented a petition in the municipality in which they asked to "silence" the bronze disturber! In the end a compromise was reached: from the bell, with almost surgical precision, a segment was removed in order to make it split and muffle the sound. And this is how it can still be heard beating every quarter of an hour today.}} [[File:Piazza Ducale - Vigevano.jpg|thumb|324x324px|Piazza Ducale; the most important square in Vigevano and among the most beautiful in Italy.]] {{See|name=Piazza Ducale|hours=h24|price=Gratis|lastedit=2021-06-08|content=The Piazza Ducale of Vigevano is a large Renaissance-style square. Its construction began in 1492 at the behest of Ludovico il Moro as an antechamber of the castle and was completed in 1494. It is a rectangular square that winds under the arcades on three sides and which sees the fourth side occupied by the Cathedral of Vigevano. It should be noted that above each arch of the arcades there are medallions depicting historical figures of the Renaissance period with some mottos that distinguish them. The beating heart of the city, it is connected by a staircase to the Vigevano Castle and the Bramante Tower which overlooks the roofs of the center and which remains, still today, the tallest building in the city. 134 m long and 48 m wide, it is built on three sides (the fourth is occupied by the Cathedral Church of Sant'Ambrogio) with homogeneous buildings with uniform façades and arcades surrounding a forum that follows the Roman model described by Vitruvius. The area had been characterised by a wide road surrounded by buildings mostly arcaded, including that of the municipality. As a result of the fourteenth-century expansion, it developed north of the fortified promontory of the ancient village which disappeared with the Visconti and Sforza transformations that led to the construction of the current "castle". The village and the primitive adjoining castle, located in an elevated position, was accessed by means of a ramp or perhaps a staircase placed in correspondence with the current tower which serves as the entrance to the castle. The new square was built under the direction of the ducal engineer Ambrogio da Corte with the demolition of the houses located towards the escarpment on which the castle stands and the reuse of the buildings to the north and west, aligning them with the reconstruction of the facades. The Sforza construction had the south side interrupted, in correspondence with the tower, by a wide connecting ramp between the square and the castle; the west side extended up to the escarpment of the castle (some arches with the original columns are inserted in the Commercio café) and was divided into two parts joined by a triumphal arch at the entrance to via del Popolo, while on the north side, in correspondence of the connection with the west one, just in front of the ramp, there was a triumphal arch with three arches corresponding to the entrance to via Giorgio Silva. The facades were totally decorated with frescoes very similar to the contemporary paintings of Palazzo Bottigella in Pavia. The current form is the result of the intervention of 1680, carried out by bishop Juan Caramuel y Lobkowitz, in which the ramp is demolished and a staircase is built, inserted in the completion of the missing section of the south side, part of the west side (towards the castle) is incorporated in the southern body. The layout of the square was definitively modified by Caramuel with the construction of the new facade of the cathedral: a concave facade, leaning against the church like a theatrical backdrop, which embraces and welcomes the enclosure of the square, overturning the Sforza square-castle relationship, transforming it into a square. church. In an unknown period, perhaps in the mid-18th century, the triumphal arches were replaced, completing the rhythm of the arches, with new columns of material and construction different from those of the 15th century. In the first half of the eighteenth century the Austrian occupiers placed a statue of St. John of Nepomuk, which still characterizes the western side of the square today. The pavement with pebbles and serizzo slabs dates back to the mid-nineteenth century, when the pavement of the arcades, originally in herringbone bricks, was also replaced with the current one. In 1911, by the architect Moretti, the design was made with white pebbles and the street lamps were inserted. Between 1905 and 1910 an extensive restoration was carried out which brought to light the fragments of the Sforza frescoes, hidden by the eighteenth-century paintings, by the Vigevanese painters Casimiro Ottone and Luigi Bocca, which integrates the fragments with a new pictorial decoration in Renaissance style; during the works the roofs are redone with the construction of the eclectic fireplaces and the current lampposts are installed. On the occasion of the 500th anniversary of its construction, between 1992 and 1996, the repainting of the decoration of the beginning of the century is carried out and the restoration of what remains of the original Sforza frescoes. The square is a meeting and meeting place, certainly the favourite of the Vigevanese people, and the main point of reference for tourists. It houses various shops and also the stop of the tourist train of the city.}} [[File:Cortile delle Armi del Castello Sforzesco.jpg|thumb|324x324px|Courtyard of the arms of the Castello Sforzesco]] {{See|name=Castello Sforzesco|alt=Sforzesco Castle|lastedit=2021-06-08|content=The Sforzesco Castle is a complex of buildings in the Italian city of Vigevano. The perimeter extends over an area of over two hectares, at the highest point of the city. The castle covers an area of 70,000 m² over 5 floors. It houses the Casimiro Ottone Art Gallery, the Lomellina National Archaeological Museum and the Pietro Bertolini International Shoe Museum. A bit of history : The history of the castle coincides for some centuries with that of the village of Vigevano, formerly called "Vicogebuin". In fact, until the mid-fifteenth century the area of ​​the promontory, enclosed by the buildings that make up the current castle, was the site where the houses of the ancient village stood with the first municipal building and the primitive churches. The village originally surrounded by a rudimentary defense system in earth and wood, later replaced by a wall, had on the east side a square-shaped castle or recetto, initially consisting of a wooden structure, replaced before the 10th century by walls in bricks and separated from the town by a moat. This structure, corresponding to the current male, initially carried out the functions of shelter for fodder and animals and of extreme defense in case of danger, but with the passage of time and with the continuous adjustments and transformations it became, between the end of the 13th century and the beginning of the 14th century, the seat and stately home of the Visconti, who also began to take possession of the houses of the ancient village, starting their demolition. Emptying and demolition continued and completed by the Sforza in the second half of the 15th century, when the keep, further enlarged and embellished, becomes a ducal palace surrounded by stables and service buildings. village in its plan of territorial domination, deciding to make it a defensive stronghold inserted in the territorial chessboard of the castles located along the Adda and Ticino to defend the Visconti state. With this in mind, in 1341, he built a defense fortress (originally called lower, it takes the current name of old fortress as opposed to the new fortress built at the end of the 15th century), at a distance from the castle, on the east limit of the village which was now expanding out of the original perimeter. At the same time, the work of transforming the old castle into a new fortress headquarters and ducal residence begins, a building that in the new conformation has a quadrangular plan formed by crenellated walls with three buildings, towers at the corners and an entrance tower in the center of the anterior curtain. The expansion and embellishment works of the keep continue throughout the Visconti domain. In 1347 the two forts were joined by the so-called "covered road", a large fortified building 164 m long and 7.5 m wide which, standing out against the city panorama, allowed a quick connection between the castle and the surrounding countryside. In 1447, at the end of the Visconti dominion, the same population of Vigevano conquered municipal freedom and destroyed the external fortress. Freedom that ends already in 1449, when Vigevano is besieged by Bartolomeo Colleoni and Francesco I Sforza, husband of Bianca Maria daughter of Filippo Maria Visconti, and new lord of Milan. After the conquest, the Sforza repaired the damage of the siege and doubled the central part of the keep towards the outside, incorporating the remains of the south-east tower destroyed during the siege. Galeazzo Maria Sforza in 1466, as soon as he succeeded his father Francesco, ordered new interventions that definitively transform the keep into the ducal palace and, taking note of the defensive function of the ancient village walls, he allowed the construction of houses in the external moat, of no higher height. at the wall. In 1472 the new Duke intervened on two ancient buildings, placed along the southern wall of the ancient village and used as a stable, raising them and modifying the ground floor with the insertion of a double colonnade with cross vaults and new windows. In 1475 he created the bridge with loggia, located south of the keep, while shortly before his death he began the construction of the falconry building, later completed by Ludovico il Moro, regent the duchy in the name of his nephew Gian Galeazzo Maria Sforza. With Ludovico il Moro, born in Vigevano, the Sforza project is implemented in interventions of significant proportions and qualities, completing the process of transforming the castle into a residence. The courtyard, originally occupied by the ancient village, was emptied of residual buildings, the third stable, called Ludovico's for this reason, and the kitchen building, built with the demolition of the ancient church of Sant'Ambrogio and connected to the male by a bridge building, thus closing the circuit of buildings surrounding the large courtyard. [[File:Castello Sforzesco (Vigevano) 06.jpg|thumb|left|270px|Interior castello Sforzesco]] The keep is enlarged on the east side with the creation of a hanging garden enclosed by two porticoed buildings designed by Bramante and open to the east. Of the Bramante complex today, after the collapse of the loggia leaning against the covered road and the emptying of the garden with the lowering to its current level, only the southern building called the "ladies' lodge" remains. Bramante also owes part of the pictorial decoration that adorned the complex of buildings overlooking the courtyard, of which traces remain today on the walls of Ludovico's stable and the elevation of the ancient municipal tower, which towards 1476 had already been raised with new battlements and corbels to house the bells of the demolished church of Santa Maria, built in three parts, the second with a belfry and the third with an octagonal body covered by a spire. The splendor of the Sforza dominion ends with Francesco II Sforza who completes the pictorial decorations of the ducal palace. From the first half of the nineteenth century the most significant changes were made. Before 1824 the burial of the west side of the moat and the demolition of the curtain wall of the keep with the ravelin took place, while in 1824 the door that opened towards the church of San Pietro Martire was closed and suppressed. In 1855, following a collapse of part of the central body of the keep and of the ancient staircase placed close to the left sleeve (which was no longer rebuilt), it was rebuilt by the engineer. Inverardi, the collapsed part with the modification of the part towards the courtyard which involved the reconstruction of the facade in Tudor style, the shifting of access to the cellar floors from right to left and the construction of a new staircase inside; the same engineer designs the entrance from Corso della Repubblica in neo-Gothic style with an atrium that incorporates a span of the eastern stable. In the second half of the century, the burying of the moat was completed and the excavation of the hanging garden, now called the courtyard of the Duchess, was carried out with the reconstruction of the body close to the covered road, a reconstruction that led to the disappearance of the ducal chapel of the Sforza era and the transfer of nine frescoes (eight of which attributed to Bernardino Ferrari) to the Town Hall. Other interventions are made to adapt the complex to the new military functions by equipping it with new structures. In 1836, in the southern part of the old fortress, a large building was built for indoor riding, today called "cavalry", a second horsewoman (demolished following a collapse in 1979) of smaller dimensions was built in the northern part of the fortress at the end of 'Nineteenth century. During the second half of the century the premises of the “prestino” (ancient municipal oven located east of the tower and purchased by the military administration in 1837) and those of the ducal kitchens were renovated, raised by one floor and used as an officers' club; the remaining parts of the moat are buried; the bridge towards the former kitchens was totally transformed into a terraced portico, while the one towards the falconer was remodeled with the construction of three arches in place of the masonry; the roof garden, already partially unpaved at the beginning of the century, emptied up to its present level; rebuilt the body leaning against the covered road and remodelled the interiors of the stables. In 1980, after a decade of abandonment following the cessation of use by the military, the restoration and recovery work of the large complex of buildings called the castle began.The National Archaeological Museum of Lomellina, inaugurated in 1998 and enlarged in 2018, collects the archaeological evidence from the Lomellino area. In 2009, the Pietro Bertolini International Footwear Museum was transferred to the rooms located above the second stable, consisting of the donation made in 1948 by the industrialist Pietro Bertolini to the Municipality of Vigevano of his rich personal collection.}} {{See|name=Leonardiana|price=Full admission €8.00; reduced entrance €7.00 (over 65, under 26, disabled, holders of Card Musei Lombardia, Police not in service, authorized tourist guides, Card Touring Club Members, FAI Members, Cral Vigevano Ducale, Card Giunti holder; reduced groups €6.50 + €1 presale rights • Groups of people min 15-max 25 (reservations required); reduced schools €4.00 + €1 presale fee • School groups min 15-max 25 (reservations required - 2 free admissions per class); reduced family 2 adults and 1 child (6-14 years) €20.00 and 2 adults and 2 children (6-14 years) €22.00|lastedit=2021-06-08|content=Leonardiana is the place, unique in the world, where the visitor can admire all the large and heterogeneous work of one of the greatest geniuses of humanity. The Museum offers an unprecedented itinerary through the life and work of Leonardo who stayed in Vigevano as superintendent of the waters on behalf of Ludovico il Moro, but also as a member of the court of Ludovico and Beatrice who always appreciated his exquisite artistic skills, the worldly attitude and the scientific and mathematical genius. The Museum exhibits all the work that Loenardo was able to conceive and create in the course of his life: the drawings, now preserved in dozens of museums and libraries around the world, the notebooks that accompanied his days, full of his thoughts and brilliant intuitions, the codes that after his death were assembled by his friends and heirs and which today are kept in the largest libraries and institutions in the world. The exhibition itinerary is completed by the "impossible art gallery", in which all 26 paintings recognized to his hand are exhibited, reproduced in full scale with special high-resolution techniques, which allow the visitor to immerse himself in the totality of the work, a unique experience that will allow a close and in-depth analysis of his artistic language.}} == Do == == Buy == Throughout history, Vigevano has always been famous for the manufacture of high quality shoes. Even today, the internationally renowned Moreschi company has its headquarters in the city, in via Cararola 69, with an outlet with much more affordable prices. But a tour in the center and under the arcades of Piazza Ducale will make you realize that there is no shortage of clothing and perfumery shops and jewelers also in the rest of the city center. For lovers of shopping centers, a little further on the outskirts, there is the "Il Ducale" shopping center, of the Ipercoop chain, with the traditional supermarket and a shopping arcade. == Eat == Eating in Vigevano is a pleasure for your palate as you can taste the typical dishes of Lombard cuisine and, above all, the typical dishes of Lomellina which are of "poor" and "country" origin. All the restaurants in Vigevano offer excellent meat dishes and land dishes (including fish dishes) that are cooked only and exclusively with products and raw materials from the countryside and local farms. The main source of income of Vigevano is, without question, the footwear sector but also tourism is very developed thanks to the historical and artistic beauties of the city so the prices of the restaurants are not really cheap but they are not excessive or prohibitive either. === What to eat in Vigevano === The gastronomic tradition of Vigevano is very ancient and has always been influenced by peasant civilization, and it is no coincidence that one of the main "ingredients" of this sublime cuisine is rice which is present in all courses, from appetizers to desserts. Let's see what are some of the best typical dishes of Vigevano that you absolutely must not give up: * Fried or stewed frogs * Sautéed snails * Chickpea Soup and Tripe in Broth * All rice-based dishes * Stewed wild boar with polenta * Stewed donkey * All dishes based on river and sea fish (spaghetti allo scoglio) * All dishes based on pork, sheep and game (jugged hare and pheasant alla cacciatora) * Rice biscuits, Dolce del Moro and Bramantini biscuits * Local cured meats and cheeses (figadei and salami della Duja) The typical dishes of Vigevano are those of Lomellina, based on the peasant civilization of the paddy field, with poor but genuine ingredients. The most famous is probably the goose salami, which goes with pork "salam d’la duja". Among the appetizers still the bath, the omelettes, the salad of nerves, the soaked fish, the borlotti bean salad. Among the first courses, rice is naturally the absolute dominator, for example with yellow risotto, risotto with barlande or meadow herbs, risotto with green beans, risotto with frogs and roasted risotto. There is no shortage of ravioli, tagliolini with asparagus, lasagna with giblets. Also popular are the chickpea soup, tripe in broth and dishes with asparagus, another typical product of Lomellina. The more traditional second courses are those based on snails and frogs, which are found less frequently today, otherwise pork, beef, the inevitable goose and Ticino fish such as eels and "bottine". Polenta is also a typical peasant dish. The boiled meat is also very popular. Finally, among the desserts, even if it is a little out of the area in Vigevano, you can easily find the famous offelle di Parona, while as regards homemade desserts, the virulà cake, white and black, is very common. As a tribute to the famous Bramante tower, Bramantini biscuits are also a typical souvenir in Vigevano. == Drink == == Sleep == == Connect == == Go next == {{IsPartOf|Southern Lombardy}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|45.316667|8.866667|zoom=13}} crxr1maovp7tlg62clk1zmcjnbmoqj7 0 185478 5091362 5061778 2025-07-11T11:08:34Z 廣九直通車 1666899 /* Respect */ 5091362 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|World_War_II_in_China_wikivoyage_banner_02.jpg|caption=Songshan Battle Site Memorial Park}} '''World War II in China''' lasted from 1937 to 1945 as the [[Japanese colonial empire|Japanese Empire]] attempted to conquer [[China]]. It is also known as the '''Second Sino-Japanese War'''; Japan won the first one in 1895. As Japan attacked the [[United States]] and the [[British Empire]] in December 1941, the war became a front of World War II, and a part of the larger [[Pacific War|Pacific theatre]]. With well over 10 million deaths, the Chinese front was one of the most destructive of World War II. {| style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto; text-align:center;" | Theatres of World War II:<br>'''[[World War II in Europe|Europe]] • [[World War II in Africa|Africa]] • China • [[Pacific War|Pacific]]''' |} ==Understand== : ''See [[Japanese colonial empire]], [[Chinese Revolutions]] and [[Pacific War]] for related information.'' {{quote|最後關頭一到，我們只有犧牲到底，抗戰到底，祗有“犧牲到底”的決心，才能博得最後的勝利。若是彷徨不定，妄自苟安，便會陷民族於萬劫不復之地。<br>In the last juncture, we can only sacrifice everything and resist to the end. Only with the determination to sacrifice everything can we fight for ultimate victory. If (the war) is treated with hesitation and uncertainty or selfish momentary ease, this will lead our nation to a catastrophic irreversible situation.|author=Chiang Kai-shek|source=Speech at [[Lushan]], just after the Marco Polo Bridge incident}} Japan quickly won the '''First Sino-Japanese War''' in 1894-95 and, as a result, took over [[Taiwan]], ended Chinese control of their former vassal state [[Korea]], and on the Chinese mainland took over the Liaodong Peninsula, part of today's province of [[Liaoning]]. {{Mapframe|35|110|zoom=3|layer=W|height=300|width=500}} Later Japan acquired considerable influence in [[Manchuria]] when they defeated the Russians in 1905; in particular they took over administration of the profitable Russian-built railway. Then following the end of [[World War I]], as part of the victorious Allies, Japan gained control of the [[Shandong]] Peninsula from the defeated Germans. In 1931 they staged the [[Shenyang|Mukden]] Incident; Japanese troops bombed part of the railway, the attack was blamed on Chinese forces, and that gave Japan a pretext to occupy all of Manchuria, setting up a puppet state called Manchukuo. From 1927, the Chinese Communist Party and the nationalist government were often at each other's throats. They suspended fighting in 1937 after the [[#Xi'an_Incident_sites|Xi'an incident]] to fight Japan, but remained hostile to each other, and resumed their civil war in 1945, leading to Communist victory in 1949. See [[Chinese revolutions]] for details. Japan invaded central [[China]] in 1937 after the '''Marco Polo Bridge Incident''', where nearby Japanese troops attacked after a request to search for an alleged missing Japanese soldier was refused by Chinese forces. Japanese forces soon managed to occupy much of eastern China, including the then-capital [[Nanjing]]. They set up a puppet state, the Wang Jingwei Regime (汪精卫政权/汪伪政权, ''Wāng Jīngwèi Zhèngquán/Wāng Wěi Zhèngquán'') which controlled East China from 1940 to 1945, led by and named after the disillusioned former Nationalist revolutionary Wang Jingwei. '''This invasion turned out to be a disaster for both sides'''. The Chinese were fighting an invader with far better armament and training, making do with whatever weapons their allies could send (many of them [[World War I]] surplus), enduring some spectacularly vicious oppression, and taking enormous numbers of casualties &mdash; over ten million military and civilian deaths, far more than any other nation except the Soviet Union. Some of them caused by mismanagement or scorched-earth policies by the ruling Kuomintang: a deliberate dam failure in [[Henan]] intended to slow down Japanese offensive caused 89000 direct deaths and even more deaths by disease and famine. Corruption was widespread within the Nationalist-led National Revolutionary Army, resulting in malnutrition and poor equipment among soldiers. Moreover, they were disunited; some factions of the Nationalists (Kuomintang) were sometimes more interested in fighting the Communists than in battling Japan; ex-warlord units were less trusted and received less equipment by Chiang Kai-shek's faction, despite their gallantry at war. Despite all that, the National Revolutionary Army (run by the Nationalists with American advisors) managed to give the Japanese a remarkably hard time. Japanese planners thought they could take all of China in three months, leave a small force to hold it, and move most of their armies elsewhere. Actually, it took them three months just to take [[Shanghai]] and in eight years of fighting, 1937-1945, they never managed to take more than about half of China. The Chinese Army fought on through the entire war, often retreating but always at a cost to the enemy. Chinese guerrillas and saboteurs &mdash; Nationalist, Communist and independent &mdash; harassed the Japanese everywhere. Roughly half of the total Japanese ground forces were tied down in China throughout the war, including troops they had planned to use elsewhere. All the Allied land victories in the [[Pacific War]] were partly due to Chinese tenacity. American, British and Dutch sanctions were imposed on Japan after the invasion of China; those, in particular restrictions on oil imports, were the main reason Japan gave for going to war with those nations. The Western powers also sent supplies to China via the [[Burma Road]]. The Soviet Union and America also sent volunteer air force units to support China, with the American one based in [[Yunnan]] renowned as the "Flying Tigers". Many overseas Chinese made significant financial contributions towards the Chinese war effort; in retaliation, the Japanese would single out the ethnic Chinese for the harshest treatment during their later occupation of much of [[Southeast Asia]]. ==Destinations== ===Beijing=== * {{listing | name=Jiaozhuanghu Tunnel Warfare Site Museum | alt=焦庄户地道战遗址纪念馆 | url=http://www.bjjzhdd.com/zy.html | email= | address= | lat=40.232686121111584 | long=116.86394611673735 | directions=[[Beijing/Northern Suburbs|Shunyi District, Beijing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-04-10 | content=A 23-kilometer network of underground tunnels built by residents of Jiaozhuanghu Village in the 1940s during the Japanese occupation of Beijing. The tunnels were used by Chinese resistance fighters to evade capture and launch attacks on Japanese forces. An 830-meter section of the tunnels is open to the public. }} * {{listing | name=Marco Polo Bridge/Lugou Bridge | alt=卢沟桥 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Beijing/Fengtai|Fengtai District, Beijing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1060121 | lastedit=2021-01-08 | content=The location of the Marco Polo Bridge Incident, which was used as the ''casus belli'' by the Japanese for the second Sino-Japanese War. }} [[File:AntijapaneseWarMemorialMuseum.jpg|thumb|Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression]] * {{listing | name=Memorial of Famous Generals in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Agression | alt=抗战名将纪念馆 | url=http://www.kzmjw.com/ | email= | address= | lat=39.98876 | long=116.198497 | directions=[[Beijing/Haidian|Haidian District, Beijing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-04-09 | content=Dedicated to the dozens of prominent Chinese generals who fought the Japanese during the Second Sino-Japanese War. }} * {{listing | name=Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression | alt=中国人民抗日战争纪念馆 | url=http://www.chinavictory.com/kzslw/foreign/views/home/indexen.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Beijing/Fengtai|Fengtai District, Beijing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression | wikidata=Q700376 | lastedit=2020-06-08 | content=China’s largest museum about the Second Sino-Japanese War. The museum is inside the Wanping Fortress, a Ming-era fortress next to the Lugou Bridge (or Marco Polo Bridge), which was the site of the Marco Polo Bridge Incident - a battle between Chinese and Japanese forces in July 1937 that led directly to the outbreak of full-scale war between the two nations. The fortress was fired upon during the battle and shell-holes are still visible today. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Pingbei Sino-Japanese War Martyrs Memorial Park | alt=平北抗日烈士纪念园 | url=http://www.pbjny.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.53561717743958 | long=116.00740994195043 | directions=[[Beijing/Yanqing|Yanqing District, Beijing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-04-11 | content=Dedicated to the many Chinese soldiers who died fighting the Japanese in the Pingbei region (a vast region which includes northern Beijing and northern Hebei Province). Inside the park is the Pingbei Sino-Japanese War Museum (平北抗日战争纪念馆), which displays around 200 photographs and artefacts. }} ===Chongqing=== The "temporary capital" of China during World War II, after [[Nanjing]] had fallen to the Japanese. Despite numerous attempts by the Japanese to take it, Chinese resistance in the inland areas was much fiercer than the Japanese expected, and though it was heavily bombed, Chongqing managed to avoid Japanese occupation for the duration of the war. * {{listing | name=Chiang Kai-Shek's Mount Huang residence | alt=黄山蒋介石官邸, 蒋介石旧军事总部 Chiang Kai-Shek's old military headquarters | url=http://www.cqkangzhan.com/ | email= | address= | lat=29.56861 | long=106.61283 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=When Chongqing was the capital of China during World War II, Jiang Jieshi (Chiang Kai-Shek) established his military headquarters up in the mountains above Chongqing. As a result the Japanese bombers never found it, and it is now a museum, preserved as it was during the war. There are many buildings in the beautiful compound and you can visit his work room with the motto over his desk "all officials must serve the people" (in free translation), his bedroom, and his meeting room, and sit in his chair where he negotiated with the American advisers, with his American-educated wife usually to his left. The residence is usually referred to as Chiang Kai-Shek's Mount Huang (or Huangshan) residence in order to distinguish it from Chiang's other official residences (he had no less than four official residences in Chongqing alone). Together with the other buildings in the compound, the residence forms part of the Chongqing Sino-Japanese War Sites Museum (重庆抗战遗址博物馆). }} * {{listing | name=Chongqing Flying Tigers Museum | alt=重庆飞虎队展览馆, 重庆友好飞虎队展览馆, 重庆飞虎队陈列馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=29.553239342546863 | long=106.52981222396403 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-02 | content=A privately-run museum about the Flying Tigers - a group of volunteer American fighter pilots who fought the Japanese from 1941 to 1942 as part of the Chinese air force. }} * {{listing | name=Former Site of Eighth Route Army Chongqing Office | alt=八路军驻重庆办事处旧址 | url=http://www.hongyan.info/Index/enindex | email= | address= | lat=29.55684083408705 | long=106.49679547132305 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-02-07 | content=The Eighth Route army was a group army formed from the Red Army in 1937 after the Communists and the Nationalists agreed to stop fighting each other and form the Second United Front against Japan. It was nominally part of the national army led by Chiang Kai-Shek, but commanded by the Chinese Communist Party. The army had several offices throughout China to faciliate communications with the Nationalist authorites, including this one in Chongqing. }} * {{listing | name=Former Site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea | alt=大韩民国临时政府旧址陈列馆 | url=http://www.hanguoguancq.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=29.558655 | long=106.565824 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-23 | content=This was the site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea from 1944 to 1945. The site is now a museum. Information is provided in Chinese and Korean only. }} * {{listing | name=Former Site of US Embassy in Chongqing | alt=重庆美国大使馆旧址 | url=https://weibo.com/p/1001065228933347/ | email= | address= | lat=29.55530318504975 | long=106.54165797430186 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-03 | content=The US embassy operated at this site from 1942 to 1946. In 2019, the former embassy site was reopened to the public as a museum. There are exhibitions about the wartime alliance between the US and China. }} * {{listing | name=Jianchuan Museum Cluster | alt=建川博物馆聚落 | url=http://www.jc-museum.cn/chongqing/ | email= | address= | lat=29.5259 | long=106.51672 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Jianchuan_Museum | lastedit=2018-07-29 | content=This is the Chongqing branch of the museum group established by the industrialist Fan Jianchuan in [[Chengdu]]. It consists of eight separate museums built inside a series of World War II bomb shelters. Some of the museums are primarily about the war, including the Museum of the No. 1 Ordnance Factory, the Sino-Japanese War Relics Museum, and the Weapons Development History Museum. }} [[File:StilwellMuseumBust.jpg|thumb|Bust of Joseph Stilwell, Allied Chief of Staff in China outside his Chongqing residence, now a museum]] * {{listing | name=Joseph Stilwell Residence | alt=史迪威故居, 史迪威将军旧居, 重庆史迪威博物馆 Stillwell Museum | url= | email= | address= | lat=29.553305872694928 | long=106.52926540815287 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone=| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Stilwell Museum | wikidata=Q9593846 | content=Not far from Red Rock Village is the former residence and office of General Joseph W. ("Vinegar Joe") Stilwell, who headed American operations in China during the Anti-Japanese War. Stilwell is an impressive person, not only for his leadership ability but also for his understanding of China and Chinese culture (he could write in Chinese with a brush). His former residence is a 1930s modernist house with great views overlooking the Yangtze river. The main level is set up as it was during Stilwell's tenure. The lower level is filled with photos and bilingual descriptions of the Chinese front during the Second World War. }} * {{listing | name=Liziba Park | alt=李子坝公园, 李子坝抗战遗址公园 Liziba Sino-Japanese War Relics Park | url= | email= | address= | lat=29.55463732229175 | long=106.53124108621601 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the banks of the Jialing River, this is a newly developed park housing many original and relocated historical buildings when Chongqing was China's wartime capital. It includes old bank buildings, government offices and the residences of local warlords. Some military pillboxes are also preserved here. }} * {{listing | name=Song Qingling's former residence | alt=宋庆龄故居, 宋庆龄旧居 | url= | email= | address= | lat=29.5572 | long=106.5453 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This was Soong Qingling's residence when Japan occupied much of China and Chongqing was the temporary capital. It also served as the headquarters of the China Defense League, an organisation that she founded to help raise funds and procure supplies for the war effort in Communist-controlled areas of the country. Her [[Shanghai/French_Concession#Political_history|Shanghai house]] is also now a museum. }} ===Guangdong=== * {{listing | name=19th Route Army Martyrs Cemetery | alt=十九路军淞沪抗日阵亡将士陵园 | url=https://www.gz19.net/ | email= | address= | lat=23.147188 | long=113.304365 | directions=[[Guangzhou/Tianhe|Tianhe District, Guangzhou]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-31 | content=Dedicated to the many members of the Kuomintang-led 19th Route Army who died fighting the Japanese during the January 28 Incident in Shanghai in 1932. Since most of the deceased soldiers and officers were originally from Guangdong Province, their bodies were taken to Guangzhou for burial. The cemetery includes a memorial hall and a museum. }} * {{listing | name=Guangdong Memorial Hall of the East River Column | alt=广东东江纵队纪念馆 | url=http://www.dongzong.net.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=22.886491 | long=113.807018 | directions=[[Dongguan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-09-19 | content=A memorial museum dedicated to telling the story of the East River Column (also known as the Dongjiang Column), a Communist-affiliated guerrilla army that fought the Japanese during the Second World War and later took part in the Chinese Civil War. The museum is on a hill overlooking the historic village of Dawangling, which is where the East River Column's main base was located from 1940 to 1943. The village of course can also be visited and several of the buildings that made up the army base are open to the public. }} * {{listing | name=[[Guangzhou/North_and_East#Former Site of Huangpu Military Academy|Whampoa Military Academy]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=23.08883 | long=113.42027 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q26239 | content=This academy was founded in 1924 and destroyed by the Japanese in 1938; it trained many officers who later fought the Japanese. Graduates also fought on both sides of the Chinese Civil War.; they included both Chiang Kai Shek and Communist General Lin Biao. }} ===Guangxi=== * {{listing | name=Eighth Route Army Guilin Office Museum | alt=八路军桂林办事处纪念馆 | url=http://www.glbb.org.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=25.28969031416026 | long=110.29487521196526 | directions=[[Guilin]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-09-13 | content=Has exhibitions about the Eighth Route Army's political and military activities in Guilin during the Second World War. The Eighth Route Army was a Communist-controlled army unit that was formed following the agreement between Communist and Kuomintang leaders to work together to fight the Japanese. The Eighth Route Army's office was located at this site from 1938 to 1941. }} * {{listing | name=Guilin Flying Tigers Heritage Park | alt=美国飞虎队桂林遗址公园 | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.216758 | long=110.156375 | directions=[[Guilin]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-09-12 | content=A memorial park dedicated to the Flying Tigers, the nickname given to the First American Volunteer Group (AVG), a group of American pilots who joined the Republic of China Air Force in 1941 and carried out missions against the Japanese during the Second World War. The park is at the site of the former Yangtang Airport, which is one of the airports where the Flying Tigers were based. There is a museum in the middle of the park and you can also visit a cave where the Flying Tigers command post was located. }} * {{listing | name=Kunlun Pass | alt=昆仑关 | url=http://www.nnklg.com/ | email= | address= | lat=23.1 | long=108.683333 | directions=[[Nanning]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1771024 | lastedit=2021-09-10 | content=The site of the Battle of Kunlun Pass, a major battle in Guangxi in December 1939-January 1940 that was won by the Chinese army. There is a major museum at the site as well as several monuments. There are also some remnants of the battle such as trenches and pillboxes but these things are not yet accessible to visitors. }} * {{listing | name=Liuzhou Military Museum | alt=柳州市军事博物园 | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.268133 | long=109.392879 | directions=[[Liuzhou]], [[Guangxi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Reportedly the largest military museum in southwestern China. The museum is noteworthy for being on the grounds of the old Liuzhou Airport. During the Second World War, the airport was an important base for the Chinese airforce as well as allied group such as the Flying Tigers and the Soviet Volunteer Group. Many of the wartime buildings still survive and there are exhibitions about the war. }} ===Hainan=== ====Dongfang==== [[File:Basuo WW2 site 20.jpg|thumb|Monument to the laborers killed in Basuo]] * {{listing | name=Burial site of laborers killed in Basuo during the Japanese occupation of Hainan | alt=日军侵琼八所死难劳工遗址 | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.093003 | long=108.622846 | directions=[[Dongfang]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-01-16 | content=During their occupation of Hainan Island, the Japanese army used forced labor to complete several infrastructure projects, including the Daguang Dam, the Shilu Iron Ore Mine and the railway line connecting the mine to the ports in Basuo and Sanya. At first the Japanese mainly relied on Chinese labor but later they began importing POWs that they had captured in Southeast Asia, including POWs who originally hailed from Australia, Canada, Britain and other allied countries. Conditions for the laborers were extremely brutal. Only 6000 of the more than 30,000 laborers survived. Many of the dead are buried here at this site. In 2013, the old prison buildings from the Basuo POW Camp Site were controversially moved here from their original location about 500 meters away. }} * {{listing | name=Hainan Railway Museum | alt=海南铁路博物馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.103534 | long=108.630629 | directions=[[Dongfang]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-01-16 | content=A museum about the history of railways on Hainan Island. Hainan's first railway line was built by the Japanese army in the 1940s using forced labour. The museum's main exhibition hall was originally a Japanese military command center and was later converted into an office for the Hainan Railway Company. }} ====Haikou==== * {{listing | name=Former Residence of Feng Baiju | alt=冯白驹故居 | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.835175 | long=110.472942 | directions=[[Haikou]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=Feng Baiju (1903-1973) was the chief Communist military leader on Hainan Island during both the Chinese Civil War and the Second Sino-Japanese War. His house was burned down by the Japanese army in 1942 and rebuilt in 1984. There is a small museum about him next to the residence. }} * {{listing | name=Qiongya Red Army Yunlong Reorganization Site | alt=琼崖红军云龙改编旧址 | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.875957 | long=110.469078 | directions=[[Haikou]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-10-18 | content=In 1938, at this site in the town of Yunlong, the Qiongya Workers and Peasants‘ Red Army led by Feng Baiju was reorganized and rebranded as the Independent Column of District 14 of the Guangdong People's Anti-Japanese Defense Corps. This was done in the wake of an agreement by Communist and Kuomintang forces to halt the civil war and work together to fight the invading Japanese army. A memorial was set up at the site in 1952 and additional structures were erected here in the 1980s and 1980s, including a bronze statue of a soldier from the Qiongya Independent Column. The exhibition hall provides a detailed overview of Hainan's experience during the Second Sino-Japanese War, though unfortunately there is no information in English. }} ===Heilongjiang=== * {{listing | name=Northeast China Revolutionary Martyrs’ Memorial Hall | alt=东北烈士纪念馆 | url=http://www.jn1948.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=45.763862 | long=126.636537 | directions=[[Harbin]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-14 | content=During the Japanese occupation of Harbin, this building was used as the Harbin police headquarters of the Japanese puppet state of Manchukuo. It played a pivotal role in the suppression of those who were opposed to Japanese rule. A number of prominent Chinese patriots were imprisoned and tortured here. In 1948, the Communist Party turned this place into a martyrs’ memorial. Today it has exhibitions on 162 individuals who died fighting the Japanese and 118 individuals who died during the Chinese Civil War. }} * {{listing | name=Unit 731 Museum | alt=华日军第七三一部队罪证陈列馆 | url=http://www.731museum.org.cn | email= | address= | lat=45.607294 | long=126.637167 | directions=[[Harbin]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60577004 | lastedit=2016-01-10 | content=A museum in Harbin located in a former bio-chemical weapons testing facility built by the Japanese and used to perform experiments on over 10,000 civilians and POWs. After the war, the Americans agreed to cover up their actions and grant immunity from prosecution to the scientists involved in exchange for being granted exclusive access to the data, as they feared that the data would end up in the hands of the Soviet Union, and many of those scientists ended up having successful careers in academia and industry. }} ===Henan=== * {{listing | name=Eighth Route Army Luoyang Office Museum | alt=八路军驻洛办事处纪念馆 | url=http://wwj.ly.gov.cn/luobaban/ | email= | address= | lat=34.67788116353488 | long=112.4751222718965 | directions=[[Luoyang]], [[Henan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=The museum is inside a traditional Chinese mansion built in 1831 that was originally the home of a wealthy merchant. Between 1938 and 1942, the mansion served as the Luoyang office of the Eighth Route Army, a Communist controlled group army that was created from the Red Army when the Communists and the Nationalists formed the Second United Front against Japan. }} ===Hubei=== ====Wuhan==== * {{listing | name=Former Residence of Zhou Enlai | alt=周恩来故居 | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.5368522600 | long=114.3659825900 | directions=[[Wuhan/Wuchang|Wuchang District, Wuhan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours=| price= | lastedit=2020-03-13 | content=CCP statesman Zhou Enlai lived here with his wife for four months in 1938 while helping to coordinate the war against Japan. The residence has been fully restored and is open to the public. }} * {{listing | name=Former Site of Eighth Route Army Wuhan Office | alt=八路军武汉办事处旧址纪念馆, Memorial Museum of Wuhan Office of Chinese Eighth Route Army | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.6085138500 | long=114.3039482500 | directions=[[Wuhan/Hankou|Jiang'an District, Wuhan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-03-09 | content=The Eighth Route Army was a Communist-controlled army unit nominally subordinate to the Kuomintang-led Chinese national army during the Second World War. The army's former office in Wuhan is now a museum with exhibits relating to the war. }} [[File:汉口新四军军部旧址4.jpg|thumb|The New Fourth Army Hankou Headquarters site]] * {{listing | name=Former Site of New Fourth Army Hankou Headquarters | alt=汉口新四军军部旧址纪念馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.6088348500 | long=114.3056012500 | directions=[[Wuhan/Hankou|Jiang'an District, Wuhan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours=| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-03-09 | content=The New Fourth Army was the second of the two major Communist-controlled army units that fought during the Second World War. The New Fourth Army's former headquarters is just around the corner from the former site of the Eighth Route Army Wuhan Office, so the two sites are probably best visited together. }} * {{listing | name=Shimen Peak Memorial Park | alt=石门峰纪念公园 | url=http://www.027smf.com/ | email= | address= | lat=30.5157217100 | long=114.4825434800 | directions=[[Wuhan/East|Hongshan District, Wuhan]] | phone=| tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-03-18 | content=The park is divided into several sections, one of which is the Wuhan War of Resistance Memorial Park (武汉抗战纪念园), which commemorates the heroes of the war against Japan and is located next to the Cemetery for Air Force Matrys Who Defended Greater Wuhan (保卫大武汉中国空军英烈墓园). On Shimen Peak Road (石门峰路), just outside the park's main entrance, you will find the Museum of the Hubei Soldiers and Citizens War of Resistance Against Japan (湖北军民抗战博物馆), which has exhibits about the war in Hubei. }} * {{listing | name=Wuhan Art Museum | alt=武汉美术馆 | url=http://www.wuhanam.com/ | email= | address=2 Baohua Street, Jiang'an District (江岸区保华街2号) | lat=30.5865443700 | long=114.2875342400 | directions=[[Wuhan/Hankou|Jiang'an District, Wuhan]] | phone=| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-02-07 | content=The museum is housed inside the former Jincheng Bank. The building was used as a military headquarters by the Japanese during their occupation of the city. }} * {{listing | name=Yaojiashan Scenic Area | alt=姚家山风景区, Mount Yaojia Scenic Area | url=http://www.yjsly.com/ | email= | address= | lat=31.2538615700 | long=114.1881630000 | directions=[[Wuhan/North|Huangpi District, Wuhan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-03-07 | content=A tourist resort in a scenic mountain village. The village played an important role in the Second World War, being the site of a base for the Fifth Division of the New Fourth Army. The old army office has been preserved as a heritage site and there is a museum nearby. }} * {{listing | name=Zhongshan Park | alt=中山公园 | url=http://www.zhongshanpark.com/ | email= | address= | lat=30.5893239300 | long=114.2657999200 | directions=[[Wuhan/Hankou|Jianghan District, Wuhan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-03-04 | content=On the left side of the Sun Yat-Sen statue is a building where Japanese forces stationed in Hubei formally surrended to the Chinese government in 1945. The building is now a museum dedicated to the event. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Zhongshan Warship Museum | alt=武汉市中山舰博物馆 | url=http://www.zhongshanwarship.org.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=30.348333 | long=114.129444 | directions=[[Wuhan/Jiangxia|Jiangxia District, Wuhan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=SS Zhongshan | image=SS Zhongshan - P1540072.JPG | wikidata=Q10875319 | lastedit=2018-03-18 | content=This museum, near the right bank of the Yangtze in the far southwestern suburbs of Wuhan, commemorates a naval battle that happened here, hundreds of miles from the sea, in October 1938. Sunk by the Japanese air force - just three years before the Pearl Harbor attack on the US fleet - the Chinese warship ''Zhongshan'' was raised from the bottom of the Yangzte in 1997, restored, and is now displayed in this museum's main hall. Adjacent are exhibits on the history of the ship, as well as the process of its lifting from the river bottom and its restoration. On the top of a hill across the small lake from the museum is a memorial to the 25 sailors, including the ship's captain, who found their watery grave in the Yangtze, far from their hometowns on [[Northern Coast (Fujian)|Fujian's northern coast]]. The lake is surrounded by sculptures commemorating various aspects of the Battle of Wuhan in 1938, as well as of the city's eventual liberation after the surrender of Japan in 1945. Various other exhibits of military and patriotic nature, such as a sampling of PLA's older weaponry, can be seen here as well. }} ===Hunan=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Changsha]] | alt=长沙 | url=http://www.changsha.gov.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=28.196111 | long=112.972222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Changsha | wikidata=Q174091 | content=The site of four separate battles between the Chinese and Japanese in 1939, 1941, 1942 and 1944. The first of those was the first time a major city was successfully defended by the Chinese from the Japanese during World War II. The Japanese were only able to capture Changsha on their fourth attempt in 1944. One of the battlefields has been preserved at the Yingzhushan War of Resistance Site Park (影珠山抗战遗址公园) about 70km northeast of downtown Changsha. One can also visit war memorials, graves and former military buildings at the Yuelu Mountain National Scenic Area (岳麓山国家重点风景名胜区) in the western part of the city. }} * {{listing | name=Memorial to the Victims of the Changjiao Massacre | alt=厂窖惨案遇难同胞纪念馆 | url=http://www.cj1943.cn/sy.html | email= | address=Changjiao, [[Nan County]], [[Hunan]] | lat=29.157828 | long=112.243421 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-21 | content=Has exhibitions on the Changjiao Massacre, the second worst massacre perpetrated by Japanese forces in China during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Around 30,000 unarmed civilians in the town of Changjiao were brutally executed over a period of four days in May 1943. }} ===Jiangsu=== ====Nanjing==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Nanjing Massacre Memorial | alt=侵华日军南京大屠杀遇难同胞纪念馆 | url=http://www.19371213.com.cn/en/ | email= | address= | lat=32.035528 | long=118.743519 | directions=[[Nanjing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders | wikidata=Q32391 | content=Commemorates the late 1937 slaughter of a huge number of civilians in and around [[Nanjing]] by the invading Japanese army. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Nanjing Memorial Hall to Aviation Martyrs Killed in the War of Resistance Against Japan | alt=南京抗日航空烈士纪念馆, Nanjing Anti-Japanese Aviation Martyrs Memorial Hall | url= | email= | address= | lat=32.0913688885 | long=118.8412119211 | directions=[[Nanjing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | content=Dedicated to all those who fought and died during the aerial battles that were fought against the Japanese during the Second World War. The memorial hall is close to a cemetery where around 3500 aviation martyrs are buried, including 870 from China, 2197 from the US, 237 from the Soviet Union and 2 from Korea. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Nanjing Non-Government Museum of the War of Resistance Against Japan | alt=南京民间抗日战争博物馆 | url=http://www.1937nanjing.org/ | email= | address=| lat=31.9754290906 | long=118.7569650489 | directions=[[Nanjing]] | phone=| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-10-27 | content=A privately-run museum dedicated to the Second Sino-Japanese War. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Former site of Japanese Shinto shrine | alt=日本神社旧址 | url= | email= | address= | lat=32.0501067917 | long=118.7705944341 | directions=[[Nanjing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-11-05 | content=Built in 1939 by the Imperial Japanese Army during their occupation of the city. The shrine, officially known as the Nanjing Shrine (南京神社), was one of the largest Shinto shrines the Japanese built on Chinese soil. It was also one of the very few that was not demolished after the war. Today the site is being used as an activity centre for retired Communist Party cadres, so you might not be able to enter the building, but viewing it from the outside should be okay. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=John Rabe's former residence | alt=拉贝旧居，拉贝故居, 拉贝与国际安全区纪念馆 John Rabe and International Safety Zone Memorial Hall | url=https://rabe.nju.edu.cn/main/index.asp | email= | address=| lat=32.0525119928 | long=118.7782076805 | directions=[[Nanjing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours=| price= | wikipedia=John_Rabe_House | wikidata=Q1699038 | lastedit=2019-06-19 | content=John Rabe (1882-1950) was a German businessman and Nazi party member who is widely celebrated in China for his efforts to protect civilians during the Japanese occupation. This house was his residence from 1932 to 1938. It is now a museum dedicated to telling the story of Rabe's life and the Nanjing International Safety Zone that he helped to establish and which is credited with saving thousands of lives. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Liji Alley Comfort Station Site | alt=利济巷慰安所旧址 | url=http://www.19371213.com.cn/en/lijixiang/ | email= | address= | lat=32.0410687310 | long=118.7924882112 | directions=[[Nanjing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-06-25 | content=The term 'comfort station' was a euphemism used by the Japanese army in World War II to refer to a brothel where so-called 'comfort women' were held captive and forced to render sexual services to Japanese soldiers. This particular comfort station was one of the largest in Asia. It is now a museum run by the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall. Entry is by appointment only. Visitors are required to make an appointment at least one day before visiting and cannot visit more than twice a month or more than 10 times a year. Due to the adult content of the exhibitions, children are not permitted inside the building. }} ====Other cities==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Iris Chang Memorial Hall | alt=张纯如纪念馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=33.61009877757154 | long=119.05495763860274 | directions=[[Huai'an]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-03-01 | content=Dedicated to the memory of Iris Chang (1968-2004), a well-known Chinese American writer whose 1997 book ''The Rape of Nanking'' did much to raise public awareness of the Nanjing Massacre. The memorial hall has exhibitions on Chang's life and the Nanjing Massacre. }} * {{listing | name=Memorial Hall of the Last Campaign of the War of Resistance Against Japan | alt=抗日战争最后一役纪念馆 | url=http://www.gykzjn.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=32.785657 | long=119.430817 | directions=[[Gaoyou]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-01-02 | content=A memorial hall dedicated to the Gaoyou–Shaobo Campaign of December 1945. According to China's official history, it was the last campaign of the Second Sino-Japanese War. However, it may also be regarded as a campaign of the Chinese Civil War. It was fought between the PLA's New Fourth Army and a group of Japanese and collaborationist Nationalist forces. The PLA won an overwhelming victory. The memorial hall is inside an old church where the surviving Japanese and collaborationist forces surrended to the New Fourth Army. }} ===Jilin=== *{{listing | name=Puppet Imperial Palace of Manchukuo | alt=伪满皇宫; Wěimǎnhuánggōng | url=http://www.wmhg.com.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=43.90356 | long=125.3428 | directions=[[Changchun]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo | wikidata=Q83332 | content=Home of Pu Yi, the last emperor of China and puppet emperor of Manchukuo, and centre of the Manchukuo administration at the time. The grounds are nicely restored, since the site was repurposed as a factory during the Cultural Revolution. Scenes from the acclaimed 1987 film ''The Last Emperor'' were filmed here. }} *{{listing | name=Norman Bethune Health Science Center of Jilin University | alt=吉林大学白求恩医学部 | url=http://jdyxb.jlu.edu.cn/en/index.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.868 | long=125.302768 | directions=[[Changchun]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Norman Bethune was a remarkable Canadian doctor. He is quite famous in China, partly because Mao wrote an essay about meeting him and millions of kids read that in school. He was a military doctor in both World War I and the Spanish Civil War. Some sources credit him with inventing the M.A.S.H. field hospital while in Spain.<br />When came to China in 1938 the Americans wanted to send him to the Nationalist Army, but he refused and went to the Communists instead. He founded this school in 1939, initially to train "barefoot doctors", peasants trained to help when there was a desperate shortage of army medics. Today it offers more conventional training for doctors, nurses and other health workers. There is a small museum dedicated to Norman Bethune on the ground floor. }} ===Liaoning=== ====Fushun==== * {{listing | name=Fushun War Criminals Management Centre | alt=抚顺战犯管理所; Fǔshùn Zhànfànguǎnlǐsuǒ | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.881436 | long=123.901647 | directions=[[Fushun]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Fushun War Criminals Management Centre | wikidata=Q826694 | content=It was here that the last emperor, Puyi, along with other Japanese and Kuomintang war criminals, were detained after the end of World War II. The site is now open for tourists to view. The galleries show the transformation of the war criminals and their living conditions. }} * {{listing | name=Pingdingshan Massacre Memorial Hall | alt=平顶山惨案遗址纪念馆; Píngdǐngshān Cǎnàn Jìniànguǎn | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.832775 | long=123.921319 | directions=[[Fushun]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=In 1932, in an event know to history as the Pingdingshan Massacre (or Pingdingshan Tragedy), 3000 people in the village of Pingdingshan were killed by the Japanese army. This site marks a mass grave where, in 1972, the bodies of 800 victims were found. }} ====Shenyang==== [[File:2014 9-18 Mukden Incident Museum, Shenyang, Diorama 3.jpg|thumb|Diorama at the 9.18 Memorial museum]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=9.18 Memorial Museum | alt=“九•一八”历史博物馆, 9.18 History Museum | url=http://www.918museum.org.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=41.8340902450 | long=123.4614850050 | directions=[[Shenyang]] | phone=| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q10878634 | content=Dedicated to the Mukden Incident, which is usually referred to as the '9.18 Incident' in Chinese. At 22:30 on 18 September 1931, a bomb exploded beside the Japanese-run railway line near Shenyang. The Japanese had actually planted the bomb themselves, but the Chinese were blamed, giving the Japanese an excuse to invade and occupy the whole of the northeast of China. Shenyang was the epicenter of that invasion, so it is most appropriate that the museum for the '9.18 Incident', as it is known, is in Shenyang next to the spot where the explosion occurred. The museum, as one would expect, depicts the incident from a Chinese perspective. It is not for the faint of heart because it unflinchingly displays the atrocities of war. Only the main descriptions are available in English, but it's enough to follow the course of events. The pictures and exhibits speak for themselves, anyway. }} * {{listing | name=Former Site of Shenyang Military Tribunal for the Trial of Japanese War Criminals | alt=中国审判日本战犯法庭旧址陈列馆 | url=http://www.918museum.org.cn/index.php/article/listarticle/pid/222/rel/tabs/sidebar/sidebar | email= | address= | lat=41.826822 | long=123.429671 | directions=[[Shenyang]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-02-09 | content=36 Japanese war criminals were publicly tried and prosecuted at this site between June 9th and July 20th, 1956. The site is now a museum. }} * {{listing | name=Shenyang World War II Allied Prisoners Camp Site Museum | alt=二战盟军战俘集中营旧址陈列馆 | url=http://www.918museum.org.cn/index.php/article/listarticle/pid/222/rel/tabs/sidebar/sidebar#tab1 | email= | address= | lat=41.807085 | long=123.485611 | directions=[[Shenyang]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-11-08 | content=From 1942 to 1945, around 1500 soldiers from six different countries were interned by the Japanese at this POW camp in Shenyang. The site is now a museum. Information is provided in both Chinese and English. }} ===Shaanxi=== ====Xi'an==== * {{listing | name=Eighth Route Army Xi'an Office Museum | alt=八路军西安办事处纪念馆 | url=http://www.xabb.org.cn/homePage/1.html | email= | address= | lat=34.274222 | long=108.95018 | directions=[[Xi'an]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-02-02 | content=From 1937 to 1946, this site served as the Communist Eighth Route Army's official liaison office for coordinating communications with the Nationalist authorities in Xi'an. }} * {{listing | name=Sanqin Museum of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression | alt=三秦抗战纪念馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=34.221808391141984 | long=109.02155130788826 | directions=[[Xi'an]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-04-08 | content=A museum about the Second World War in Shaanxi Province (Sanqin is an old name for Shaanxi). }} ====Xi'an Incident sites==== Chinese politics in the 1930s were complex. The Nationalists under Chiang Kai-shek were nominally in charge, but in many areas local warlords held the real power, some ethnic minority areas were ''de facto'' independent, and the Communists held other regions (see [[Long March]]). The strength of a political group was measured not mainly by how many votes it could get, but rather by how many divisions it could put in the field. Yang Hucheng was the warlord of [[Shaanxi]], the province whose capital is Xi'an. Chang Hsüeh-liang (Zhang Xueliang) was the "Young Marshal" whose family had ruled [[Manchuria]]. The Japanese assassinated his father (the "Old Marshal") in 1928, after he had acknowledged that Manchuria was part of China and accepted nominal subordination to Chiang. When the Japanese took over the region completely in 1931 the son retreated into central China, bringing an army. Both generals were nominally subordinate to Chiang, and in 1936 he ordered them to attack the Communists. Instead they arrested him and held him until he agreed to co-operate with the Communists against the Japanese. * {{listing | name=Huaqing Pool | alt=华清池 | url=http://en.hqc.cn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Xi'an]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4133842 | lastedit=2021-02-06 | content=A hot spring villa in Xi'an where Chiang was held. Also famous as the site where legend has it that Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang Dynasty had his romance with his favourite concubine Yang Guifei. }} Two heritage properties are administered by the Xi'an Incident Museum (西安事变纪念馆). * {{listing | name=General Yang Hucheng's Zhiyuan Villa | alt=杨虎城将军止园别墅 | url=http://www.xasb.net/ | email= | address= | lat=34.27309822998174 | long=108.93513314817096 | directions=[[Xi'an]] | phone=| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-02-03 | content=The property has been restored to appears as it did in 1930s and has exhibitions about General Yang Hucheng and his role in the Xi'an Incident. }} * {{listing | name=General Zhang Xueliang's Official Residence | alt=张学良将军公馆, General Chang Hsüeh-liang's Official Residence | url=http://www.xasb.net/ | email= | address= | lat=34.2586891506127 | long=108.96303789196315 | directions=[[Xi'an]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-02-03 | content=The Xi'an Incident Museum's main exhibition halls are at this site. }} Chiang's release was negotiated by Soong Ching-ling, widow of Sun Yat Sen and one of very few people trusted by everyone involved. [[Shanghai/French_Concession#Soong Ching-ling's Former Residence|Her home]] in Shanghai's French Concession is also a tourist attraction. ===Shandong=== * {{listing | name=[[Tai'erzhuang]] | alt=台儿庄 | url= | email= | address= | lat=34.559172 | long=117.737412 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q626796 | lastedit=2021-05-11 | content=Site of the Battle of Tai'erzhuang in 1938, the first victory the Chinese scored against the Japanese during the Second Sino-Japanese War, thus giving the Chinese forces a much needed morale boost. Today, the town has a well-preserved old town, with a museum and several art installations commemorating the battle. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Weixian Concentration Camp Museum | alt=潍县集中营博物馆 | url=http://www.wfsldy.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Weifang]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7980168 | content=The site of a concentration camp where thousands of Western prisoners of war, including Eric Liddell, who was portrayed in the movie Chariots of Fire, were interned during the Japanese occupation. This is an interesting and little-known site in Weifang. The names of the prisoners are written in Chinese on the monument, but their English names are on a plaque to the south. }} ===Shanghai=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Chinese "Comfort Women" History Museum | alt=中国“慰安妇”历史博物馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=31.1642481947 | long=121.4166524084 | directions=[[Shanghai/French Concession|French Concession, Shanghai]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-05-23 | content=A museum about the women who were forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese army during the Second World War. }} * {{listing | name=Former Site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea | alt=大韩民国临时政府旧址 | url=http://dh.huangpuqu.sh.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=31.219242 | long=121.47016 | directions=[[Shanghai/French Concession|French Concession, Shanghai]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=In 1919, during the Japanese occupation of Korea, Korean independence activists in Shanghai established the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea. This building served as the provisional government's main headquarters from 1926 to 1932. The site is now owned and preserved as a museum by [[South Korea]]. Everything is explained in Chinese and Korean, and there's nothing in English. }} * {{listing | name=Jinshanwei War of Resistance Heritage Park | alt=金山卫抗战遗址纪念园 | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.720947 | long=121.317831 | directions=[[Shanghai/Jinshan|Jinshan District, Shanghai]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-04-18 | content=Commemorates the landing of Japanese troops in the coastal town of Jinshanwei on November 5th, 1937. The Japanese encountered little resistance, as Chinese army divisions that had formerly been stationed in the area had been redeployed elsewhere. Following the Japanese landings at Jinshanwei, the Chinese soldiers in Shanghai were surrounded from both the north and the south, so three days later, on November 8th, Chinese central command made the fateful decision to order all forces to abandon the city and retreat to the west. The park includes a number of monuments, as well as a museum about the Jinshanwei landings. The museum is inside the Jinshanwei Fort, a reconstructed Ming Dynasty fort that was destroyed during the [[Taiping Rebellion]]. }} * {{listing | name=Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum | alt=上海犹太难民纪念馆 | url=http://www.shhkjrm.com/ | email= | address= | lat=31.255856245997556 | long=121.50499125991301 | directions=[[Shanghai/Hongkou|Hongkou District, Shanghai]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum | wikidata=Q11078482 | lastedit=2020-08-20 | content=The museum is at the site of what used to be the Ohel Moishe Synagogue. The synagogue was built in 1928 by Russian Jews and was one of the principal places of worship for Jewish refugees in Shanghai during the Second World War. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Shanghai Songhu Memorial Hall for the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression | alt=上海淞沪抗战纪念馆 | url=http://www.813china.com/ | email= | address= | lat=31.4117444975 | long=121.4906606358 | directions=[[Shanghai/Baoshan|Baoshan District, Shanghai]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Battle_of_Shanghai | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-02 | content=Commemorates the Battle of Shanghai, one of the largest and bloodiest battles of the Second Sino-Japanese War. }} [[File:Sihang warehouse under fire.jpg|thumb|The Sihang warehouse, fought over in 1937 and still standing]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sihang Warehouse Battle Memorial | alt=上海四行仓库抗战纪念馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=31.2423167129 | long=121.4669387702 | directions=[[Shanghai/Zhabei|Zhabei District, Shanghai]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Defense of Sihang Warehouse | wikidata=Q1973870 | lastedit=2019-11-19 | content=The Sihang Warehouse is a historic warehouse on the north bank of Suzhou Creek. It was built in 1931 by four banks, hence the literal name of the warehouse is the 'Four Banks Warehouse'. In 1937, the warehouse became a flashpoint in the latter stages of the Battle of Shanghai. At that time, it was being used as the headquarters of the 88th Division of the National Revolutionary Army. The division was preparing to retreat to the city's hinterland, but left one battalion behind at the warehouse in order to buy time for the retreat and also to demonstrate to the international community the determination of the Chinese people to resist the Japanese. The battalion successfully defended the warehouse for about 6 days before eventually retreating to the International Concession, where they were promptly disarmed and arrested by British troops acting under pressure from the Japanese. Part of the warehouse is now a museum about the Defence of Sihang Warehouse and the Battle of Shanghai. }} ===Shanxi=== *{{listing | name=Huangya Cave Cultural Tourism Area | alt=黄崖洞文化旅游区; Huángyádòng Wénhuà Lǚyóu Qū | url=http://www.huangyadong.com/ | email= | address= | lat=36.794058 | long=113.377697 | directions=[[Changzhi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=More than just a geological park, this is also an important historical site. During the Second World War, the Communist-led Eighth Route Army set up a military base here, which included the army’s first armaments factory. In November 1941, Eighth Route Army forces at the base successfully fought off an attack by the Japanese army despite being outnumbered 6 to 1. The former military base is now one of the key attractions in the park. }} * {{listing | name=Shanxi Museum of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Agression | alt=山西烽火抗战博物馆 | url=http://www.sxkzbwg.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=37.872958 | long=112.556588 | directions=[[Taiyuan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-24 | content= }} ===Yunnan=== ====Kunming==== * {{listing | name=Burma Road History Museum | alt=滇缅公路历史博物馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.028073 | long=102.630314 | directions=[[Kunming]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-07-24 | content=A museum about the [[Burma Road]]. The museum was founded by Chen Daya, the author of a book about the Overseas Chinese drivers and mechanics who came to China to work on the Burma Road. The museum does not have a lot of artefacts, but has many photographs, illustrations and models. The most valuable and authentic item on display is an old case used for carrying items along the Burma Road. If you understand Mandarin, a friendly guide dressed in period costume can give you a free tour of the museum. A signed copy of Chen's book (published in Chinese only) can be purchased from the museum gift shop. }} * {{listing | name=Kunming Flying Tigers Museum | alt=昆明飞虎队纪念馆 | url=http://www.kmflyingtiger.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat=25.038669 | long=102.718113 | directions=[[Kunming]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Flying Tigers | content=This commemorates a group of volunteer American fighter pilots who fought in China. Kunming was their main base. Some of their other bases included [[Huaihua]], [[Guilin]], [[Liuzhou]] and [[Chongqing]]. These cities also have their own museums dedicated to the Flying Tigers. }} * {{listing | name=National Southwestern Associated University Site | alt=国立西南联合大学旧址 | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.059384 | long=102.695998 | directions=[[Kunming]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National_Southwestern_Associated_University | wikidata=Q519556 | lastedit=2019-05-07 | content=The National Southwestern Associated University was a wartime amalgamation of Peking University, Tsinghua University and Nankai University, which were and still are among China's most prestigious universities. It was established in [[Changsha]] in 1937 following the occupation of university campuses in Beijing and Tianjin by Japanese forces and was originally known as the Changsha Temporary University. In 1938, the university relocated to this site in Kunming following heavy air raids on Changsha and continued to operate here until the end of the war. The site, which is now part of Yunnan Normal University, is a national level heritage site and is open to the public. }} * {{listing | name=Victory over Japan Memorial Hall | alt=抗战胜利纪念堂, 抗战胜利堂, Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.043573033868316 | long=102.70604343407724 | directions=[[Kunming]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-07-25 | content=Completed in 1947, this was one of the first war memorials to be commissioned in China following the end of the Second World War. It is now a national heritage site. }} * {{listing | name=Yunnan Military Academy | alt=云南陆军讲武堂旧址 | url=http://www.yunnanmilitaryacademymuseum.com/ | email= | address= | lat=25.050833 | long=102.699444 | directions=[[Kunming]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Yunnan Military Academy | image=Kunming Yunnan Lujun Jiangwutang Jiuzhi 2014.09.26 18-26-32.jpg | wikidata=Q9665597 | content=The Yunnan Military Academy is a historic military academy that was founded in 1909 during the final years of the Qing Dynasty. It continued to operate after the Xinhai Revolution (1911) and was one of the most important military academies in China up until its closure in 1935. A number of Chinese military leaders who took part in the Second World War received their training here. A museum at the site explains the history. Among the exhibitions is a major exhibition on the Chinese Expeditionary Force, a unit of the Chinese army that was dispatched to Burma and India to assist the Allies in fighting Japanese forces in those countries. }} ====Tengchong==== * {{listing | name=Laifengshan National Forest Park | alt=来凤山国家森林公园 | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.017780 | long=98.478775 | directions=[[Tengchong]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-12 | content=A large park centered around Laifeng Hill (Laifengshan), the highest land formation in the central part of the city and one of the city's major landmarks. During the Second World War, the occupying Japanese forces fortified the hill and used it as a base for maintaining their stranglehold over the city. In 1944, this was one the main battlefields of the Battle of Tengchong, during which the Chinese Expeditionary Force and allied forces fought to liberate the city. The Chinese ultimately won the battle but at a heavy cost. Many of those who fought in the battle are buried at the National Cemetery to the Fallen of World War II (listed below). There are also many soldiers and other people buried on the hill itself, including Zhang Wende, the unofficial wartime governor of Tengchong County who mobilized local civilians to support the war effort. When walking through the park, you will see graves almost everywhere you look. You can also see remnants of the battle such as trenches and bomb craters. At the summit of the hill is the famous Wenbi Pagoda, which was destroyed in the war and rebuilt in 2000. }} [[File:Heroes Graveyard 07.jpg|thumb|National Cemetery to the Fallen of World War II in Tengchong]] * {{listing | name=National Cemetery to the Fallen of World War II | alt=国殇墓园 | url=http://dxkzjng.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=25.029489 | long=98.481267 | directions=[[Tengchong]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=War cemetery with the graves of thousands of Chinese Nationalist soldiers, as well as 19 American Flying Tigers, who died in the 1944 Battle of Tengchong. }} * {{listing | name=Western Yunnan Memorial to War of Resistance Against Japan | alt=滇西抗战纪念馆 | url=http://dxkzjng.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=25.028958 | long=98.481651 | directions=next to the National Cemetery in [[Tengchong]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-27 | content=Large museum dedicated to the Western Yunnan campaign of World War II. Has lots of information in English, though captions for individual items tend to be in Chinese only. The main exhibition halls are on the ground floor, but the exhibitions on the second floor are worth seeing too, especially the exhibition on Japan's biological and chemical weapons program. }} * {{listing | name=Stilwell Road Museum | alt=史迪威公路博物馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.985488 | long=98.518035 | directions=[[Tengchong]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-25 | content=A privately-run museum about the Stilwell Road. The museum maintains a very impressive collection of World War II-era military vehicles, including dozens of jeeps and trucks. }} ====Other cities==== * {{listing | name=Memorial Park for Overseas Chinese Drivers and Mechanics from Southeast Asia in Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression | alt=南侨机工回国抗日纪念公园 | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.085733 | long=98.073813 | directions=[[Ruili]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-13 | content=Dedicated to the more 3000 Overseas Chinese drivers and mechanics who chose to leave their homes in Southeast Asia during the Second World War in order to work on the Burma Road. There is a museum in the middle of the park. }} * {{listing | name=Mount Song Battle Site Memorial Park | alt=松山大战遗址纪念园 | url= | email= | address=[[Western Yunnan]] | lat=24.741409 | long=98.905479 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Battle of Mount Song | lastedit=2021-08-17 | content=Site of the Battle of Mount Song, an important battle in which the Chinese forces were successful in reclaiming a key choke point from the Japanese, thus allowing the Burma Road to be reopened. Some of the Chinese soliders who perished in the battle are buried here. Moreover, the battle site itself is remarkably well-preserved. One can see many trenches, tunnels and other features that date from the war. Also at the park is a major memorial, which consists of numerous sculptures of Chinese soldiers symbolising the people who fought and died in the battle, including numerous elderly soldiers, and teenage soldiers as young as 13. }} ==Respect== A Chinese law enacted in 2019 criminalizes the denial of or insult to officially-endorsed heroes and martyrs (i.e. veterans, perhaps also war crime survivors), which include any deviation from the official historiography. For war memorials, acts considered to be disrespectful can be prosecuted. After the War, the Communist and Nationalist parties accused each other of fighting the Japanese in a passive manner — the CPC blames the Kuomintang for purging their units despite the formal alliance and guerrilla warfare gallantry, while the Kuomintang criticizes the communists collected arms to prepare themselves for the future civil war while contributed little guerrilla warfare. The topic is extremely polarizing (and very likely out of the red line in Mainland China). Visitors should try to stay neutral in case of such disputes. Japanese civilian involvement in the war is also controversial. There were indeed Japanese POWs who served in the Communist Eighth Route Army, and Japanese anti-militarist activists operated in China to voice their opposition to Japanese aggression. Like Germans living under Nazi Germany however, most Japanese civilians' attitude is at best indifferent and at worst supportive to the war. A settler colonialist policy was also pursued by Japan in Manchukuo, which was especially painful to locals in [[Northeast China]]. Some Chinese (especially hardline nationalists) resent insufficient retribution and compensation, and believe that Japanese civilians deserved strategic bombings and the atomic bombings of [[Hiroshima]] and [[Nagasaki]] for their support towards the war. ==See also== * [[Pacific War]] * [[World War II in Europe]] * [[World War II in Africa]] * [[Holocaust remembrance]] * [[Korean War]] * [[Indochina Wars]] * [[Chinese revolutions]] {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|World War II}} l3rfdrk8zk7heq9kqdratijgub8h6k7 5091368 5091362 2025-07-11T11:22:38Z 廣九直通車 1666899 /* Understand */ 5091368 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|World_War_II_in_China_wikivoyage_banner_02.jpg|caption=Songshan Battle Site Memorial Park}} '''World War II in China''' lasted from 1937 to 1945 as the [[Japanese colonial empire|Japanese Empire]] attempted to conquer [[China]]. It is also known as the '''Second Sino-Japanese War'''; Japan won the first one in 1895. As Japan attacked the [[United States]] and the [[British Empire]] in December 1941, the war became a front of World War II, and a part of the larger [[Pacific War|Pacific theatre]]. With well over 10 million deaths, the Chinese front was one of the most destructive of World War II. {| style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto; text-align:center;" | Theatres of World War II:<br>'''[[World War II in Europe|Europe]] • [[World War II in Africa|Africa]] • China • [[Pacific War|Pacific]]''' |} ==Understand== : ''See [[Japanese colonial empire]], [[Chinese Revolutions]] and [[Pacific War]] for related information.'' {{quote|最後關頭一到，我們只有犧牲到底，抗戰到底，祗有“犧牲到底”的決心，才能博得最後的勝利。若是彷徨不定，妄自苟安，便會陷民族於萬劫不復之地。<br>In the last juncture, we can only sacrifice everything and resist to the end. Only with the determination to sacrifice everything can we fight for ultimate victory. If (the war) is treated with hesitation and uncertainty or selfish momentary ease, this will lead our nation to a catastrophic irreversible situation.|author=Chiang Kai-shek|source=Speech at [[Lushan]], just after the Marco Polo Bridge incident}} Japan quickly won the '''First Sino-Japanese War''' in 1894-95 and, as a result, took over [[Taiwan]], ended Chinese control of their former vassal state [[Korea]], and on the Chinese mainland took over the Liaodong Peninsula, part of today's province of [[Liaoning]]. {{Mapframe|35|110|zoom=3|layer=W|height=300|width=500}} Later Japan acquired considerable influence in [[Manchuria]] when they defeated the Russians in 1905; in particular they took over administration of the profitable Russian-built railway. Then following the end of [[World War I]], as part of the victorious Allies, Japan gained control of the [[Shandong]] Peninsula from the defeated Germans. In 1931 they staged the [[Shenyang|Mukden]] Incident; Japanese troops bombed part of the railway, the attack was blamed on Chinese forces, and that gave Japan a pretext to occupy all of Manchuria, setting up a puppet state called Manchukuo. From 1927, the Chinese Communist Party and the nationalist government were often at each other's throats. They suspended fighting in 1937 after the [[#Xi'an_Incident_sites|Xi'an incident]] to fight Japan, but remained hostile to each other, and resumed their civil war in 1945, leading to Communist victory in 1949. See [[Chinese revolutions]] for details. Japan invaded central [[China]] in 1937 after the '''Marco Polo Bridge Incident''', where nearby Japanese troops attacked after a request to search for an alleged missing Japanese soldier was refused by Chinese forces. Japanese forces soon managed to occupy much of eastern China, including the then-capital [[Nanjing]]. They set up a puppet state, the Wang Jingwei Regime (汪精卫政权/汪伪政权, ''Wāng Jīngwèi Zhèngquán/Wāng Wěi Zhèngquán'') which controlled East China from 1940 to 1945, led by and named after the disillusioned former Nationalist revolutionary Wang Jingwei. '''This invasion turned out to be a disaster for both sides'''. The Chinese were fighting an invader with far better armament and training, making do with whatever weapons their allies could send (many of them [[World War I]] surplus), enduring some spectacularly vicious oppression, and taking enormous numbers of casualties &mdash; over ten million military and civilian deaths, far more than any other nation except the Soviet Union. Some of them caused by mismanagement or scorched-earth policies by the ruling Kuomintang. Most notably in 1938, the Kuomintang executed a deliberate dam failure in [[Henan]] to slow down Japanese offensive. It caused 89000 direct deaths, even more deaths by disease and famine, and created large swaths of inarable lands that displaced nearly 4 million. Corruption was widespread within the Nationalist-led National Revolutionary Army, resulting in malnutrition and poor equipment among soldiers. Moreover, they were disunited; some factions of the Nationalists (Kuomintang) were sometimes more interested in fighting the Communists than in battling Japan; ex-warlord units were less trusted and received less equipment by Chiang Kai-shek's faction, despite their gallantry at war. Despite all that, the National Revolutionary Army (run by the Nationalists with American advisors) managed to give the Japanese a remarkably hard time. Japanese planners thought they could take all of China in three months, leave a small force to hold it, and move most of their armies elsewhere. Actually, it took them three months just to take [[Shanghai]] and in eight years of fighting, 1937-1945, they never managed to take more than about half of China. The Chinese Army fought on through the entire war, often retreating but always at a cost to the enemy. Chinese guerrillas and saboteurs &mdash; Nationalist, Communist and independent &mdash; harassed the Japanese everywhere. Roughly half of the total Japanese ground forces were tied down in China throughout the war, including troops they had planned to use elsewhere. All the Allied land victories in the [[Pacific War]] were partly due to Chinese tenacity. American, British and Dutch sanctions were imposed on Japan after the invasion of China; those, in particular restrictions on oil imports, were the main reason Japan gave for going to war with those nations. The Western powers also sent supplies to China via the [[Burma Road]]. The Soviet Union and America also sent volunteer air force units to support China, with the American one based in [[Yunnan]] renowned as the "Flying Tigers". Many overseas Chinese made significant financial contributions towards the Chinese war effort; in retaliation, the Japanese would single out the ethnic Chinese for the harshest treatment during their later occupation of much of [[Southeast Asia]]. ==Destinations== ===Beijing=== * {{listing | name=Jiaozhuanghu Tunnel Warfare Site Museum | alt=焦庄户地道战遗址纪念馆 | url=http://www.bjjzhdd.com/zy.html | email= | address= | lat=40.232686121111584 | long=116.86394611673735 | directions=[[Beijing/Northern Suburbs|Shunyi District, Beijing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-04-10 | content=A 23-kilometer network of underground tunnels built by residents of Jiaozhuanghu Village in the 1940s during the Japanese occupation of Beijing. The tunnels were used by Chinese resistance fighters to evade capture and launch attacks on Japanese forces. An 830-meter section of the tunnels is open to the public. }} * {{listing | name=Marco Polo Bridge/Lugou Bridge | alt=卢沟桥 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Beijing/Fengtai|Fengtai District, Beijing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1060121 | lastedit=2021-01-08 | content=The location of the Marco Polo Bridge Incident, which was used as the ''casus belli'' by the Japanese for the second Sino-Japanese War. }} [[File:AntijapaneseWarMemorialMuseum.jpg|thumb|Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression]] * {{listing | name=Memorial of Famous Generals in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Agression | alt=抗战名将纪念馆 | url=http://www.kzmjw.com/ | email= | address= | lat=39.98876 | long=116.198497 | directions=[[Beijing/Haidian|Haidian District, Beijing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-04-09 | content=Dedicated to the dozens of prominent Chinese generals who fought the Japanese during the Second Sino-Japanese War. }} * {{listing | name=Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression | alt=中国人民抗日战争纪念馆 | url=http://www.chinavictory.com/kzslw/foreign/views/home/indexen.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Beijing/Fengtai|Fengtai District, Beijing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression | wikidata=Q700376 | lastedit=2020-06-08 | content=China’s largest museum about the Second Sino-Japanese War. The museum is inside the Wanping Fortress, a Ming-era fortress next to the Lugou Bridge (or Marco Polo Bridge), which was the site of the Marco Polo Bridge Incident - a battle between Chinese and Japanese forces in July 1937 that led directly to the outbreak of full-scale war between the two nations. The fortress was fired upon during the battle and shell-holes are still visible today. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Pingbei Sino-Japanese War Martyrs Memorial Park | alt=平北抗日烈士纪念园 | url=http://www.pbjny.com/ | email= | address= | lat=40.53561717743958 | long=116.00740994195043 | directions=[[Beijing/Yanqing|Yanqing District, Beijing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-04-11 | content=Dedicated to the many Chinese soldiers who died fighting the Japanese in the Pingbei region (a vast region which includes northern Beijing and northern Hebei Province). Inside the park is the Pingbei Sino-Japanese War Museum (平北抗日战争纪念馆), which displays around 200 photographs and artefacts. }} ===Chongqing=== The "temporary capital" of China during World War II, after [[Nanjing]] had fallen to the Japanese. Despite numerous attempts by the Japanese to take it, Chinese resistance in the inland areas was much fiercer than the Japanese expected, and though it was heavily bombed, Chongqing managed to avoid Japanese occupation for the duration of the war. * {{listing | name=Chiang Kai-Shek's Mount Huang residence | alt=黄山蒋介石官邸, 蒋介石旧军事总部 Chiang Kai-Shek's old military headquarters | url=http://www.cqkangzhan.com/ | email= | address= | lat=29.56861 | long=106.61283 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=When Chongqing was the capital of China during World War II, Jiang Jieshi (Chiang Kai-Shek) established his military headquarters up in the mountains above Chongqing. As a result the Japanese bombers never found it, and it is now a museum, preserved as it was during the war. There are many buildings in the beautiful compound and you can visit his work room with the motto over his desk "all officials must serve the people" (in free translation), his bedroom, and his meeting room, and sit in his chair where he negotiated with the American advisers, with his American-educated wife usually to his left. The residence is usually referred to as Chiang Kai-Shek's Mount Huang (or Huangshan) residence in order to distinguish it from Chiang's other official residences (he had no less than four official residences in Chongqing alone). Together with the other buildings in the compound, the residence forms part of the Chongqing Sino-Japanese War Sites Museum (重庆抗战遗址博物馆). }} * {{listing | name=Chongqing Flying Tigers Museum | alt=重庆飞虎队展览馆, 重庆友好飞虎队展览馆, 重庆飞虎队陈列馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=29.553239342546863 | long=106.52981222396403 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-02 | content=A privately-run museum about the Flying Tigers - a group of volunteer American fighter pilots who fought the Japanese from 1941 to 1942 as part of the Chinese air force. }} * {{listing | name=Former Site of Eighth Route Army Chongqing Office | alt=八路军驻重庆办事处旧址 | url=http://www.hongyan.info/Index/enindex | email= | address= | lat=29.55684083408705 | long=106.49679547132305 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-02-07 | content=The Eighth Route army was a group army formed from the Red Army in 1937 after the Communists and the Nationalists agreed to stop fighting each other and form the Second United Front against Japan. It was nominally part of the national army led by Chiang Kai-Shek, but commanded by the Chinese Communist Party. The army had several offices throughout China to faciliate communications with the Nationalist authorites, including this one in Chongqing. }} * {{listing | name=Former Site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea | alt=大韩民国临时政府旧址陈列馆 | url=http://www.hanguoguancq.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=29.558655 | long=106.565824 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-23 | content=This was the site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea from 1944 to 1945. The site is now a museum. Information is provided in Chinese and Korean only. }} * {{listing | name=Former Site of US Embassy in Chongqing | alt=重庆美国大使馆旧址 | url=https://weibo.com/p/1001065228933347/ | email= | address= | lat=29.55530318504975 | long=106.54165797430186 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-08-03 | content=The US embassy operated at this site from 1942 to 1946. In 2019, the former embassy site was reopened to the public as a museum. There are exhibitions about the wartime alliance between the US and China. }} * {{listing | name=Jianchuan Museum Cluster | alt=建川博物馆聚落 | url=http://www.jc-museum.cn/chongqing/ | email= | address= | lat=29.5259 | long=106.51672 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Jianchuan_Museum | lastedit=2018-07-29 | content=This is the Chongqing branch of the museum group established by the industrialist Fan Jianchuan in [[Chengdu]]. It consists of eight separate museums built inside a series of World War II bomb shelters. Some of the museums are primarily about the war, including the Museum of the No. 1 Ordnance Factory, the Sino-Japanese War Relics Museum, and the Weapons Development History Museum. }} [[File:StilwellMuseumBust.jpg|thumb|Bust of Joseph Stilwell, Allied Chief of Staff in China outside his Chongqing residence, now a museum]] * {{listing | name=Joseph Stilwell Residence | alt=史迪威故居, 史迪威将军旧居, 重庆史迪威博物馆 Stillwell Museum | url= | email= | address= | lat=29.553305872694928 | long=106.52926540815287 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone=| tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Stilwell Museum | wikidata=Q9593846 | content=Not far from Red Rock Village is the former residence and office of General Joseph W. ("Vinegar Joe") Stilwell, who headed American operations in China during the Anti-Japanese War. Stilwell is an impressive person, not only for his leadership ability but also for his understanding of China and Chinese culture (he could write in Chinese with a brush). His former residence is a 1930s modernist house with great views overlooking the Yangtze river. The main level is set up as it was during Stilwell's tenure. The lower level is filled with photos and bilingual descriptions of the Chinese front during the Second World War. }} * {{listing | name=Liziba Park | alt=李子坝公园, 李子坝抗战遗址公园 Liziba Sino-Japanese War Relics Park | url= | email= | address= | lat=29.55463732229175 | long=106.53124108621601 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the banks of the Jialing River, this is a newly developed park housing many original and relocated historical buildings when Chongqing was China's wartime capital. It includes old bank buildings, government offices and the residences of local warlords. Some military pillboxes are also preserved here. }} * {{listing | name=Song Qingling's former residence | alt=宋庆龄故居, 宋庆龄旧居 | url= | email= | address= | lat=29.5572 | long=106.5453 | directions=[[Chongqing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=This was Soong Qingling's residence when Japan occupied much of China and Chongqing was the temporary capital. It also served as the headquarters of the China Defense League, an organisation that she founded to help raise funds and procure supplies for the war effort in Communist-controlled areas of the country. Her [[Shanghai/French_Concession#Political_history|Shanghai house]] is also now a museum. }} ===Guangdong=== * {{listing | name=19th Route Army Martyrs Cemetery | alt=十九路军淞沪抗日阵亡将士陵园 | url=https://www.gz19.net/ | email= | address= | lat=23.147188 | long=113.304365 | directions=[[Guangzhou/Tianhe|Tianhe District, Guangzhou]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-31 | content=Dedicated to the many members of the Kuomintang-led 19th Route Army who died fighting the Japanese during the January 28 Incident in Shanghai in 1932. Since most of the deceased soldiers and officers were originally from Guangdong Province, their bodies were taken to Guangzhou for burial. The cemetery includes a memorial hall and a museum. }} * {{listing | name=Guangdong Memorial Hall of the East River Column | alt=广东东江纵队纪念馆 | url=http://www.dongzong.net.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=22.886491 | long=113.807018 | directions=[[Dongguan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-09-19 | content=A memorial museum dedicated to telling the story of the East River Column (also known as the Dongjiang Column), a Communist-affiliated guerrilla army that fought the Japanese during the Second World War and later took part in the Chinese Civil War. The museum is on a hill overlooking the historic village of Dawangling, which is where the East River Column's main base was located from 1940 to 1943. The village of course can also be visited and several of the buildings that made up the army base are open to the public. }} * {{listing | name=[[Guangzhou/North_and_East#Former Site of Huangpu Military Academy|Whampoa Military Academy]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=23.08883 | long=113.42027 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q26239 | content=This academy was founded in 1924 and destroyed by the Japanese in 1938; it trained many officers who later fought the Japanese. Graduates also fought on both sides of the Chinese Civil War.; they included both Chiang Kai Shek and Communist General Lin Biao. }} ===Guangxi=== * {{listing | name=Eighth Route Army Guilin Office Museum | alt=八路军桂林办事处纪念馆 | url=http://www.glbb.org.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=25.28969031416026 | long=110.29487521196526 | directions=[[Guilin]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-09-13 | content=Has exhibitions about the Eighth Route Army's political and military activities in Guilin during the Second World War. The Eighth Route Army was a Communist-controlled army unit that was formed following the agreement between Communist and Kuomintang leaders to work together to fight the Japanese. The Eighth Route Army's office was located at this site from 1938 to 1941. }} * {{listing | name=Guilin Flying Tigers Heritage Park | alt=美国飞虎队桂林遗址公园 | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.216758 | long=110.156375 | directions=[[Guilin]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-09-12 | content=A memorial park dedicated to the Flying Tigers, the nickname given to the First American Volunteer Group (AVG), a group of American pilots who joined the Republic of China Air Force in 1941 and carried out missions against the Japanese during the Second World War. The park is at the site of the former Yangtang Airport, which is one of the airports where the Flying Tigers were based. There is a museum in the middle of the park and you can also visit a cave where the Flying Tigers command post was located. }} * {{listing | name=Kunlun Pass | alt=昆仑关 | url=http://www.nnklg.com/ | email= | address= | lat=23.1 | long=108.683333 | directions=[[Nanning]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1771024 | lastedit=2021-09-10 | content=The site of the Battle of Kunlun Pass, a major battle in Guangxi in December 1939-January 1940 that was won by the Chinese army. There is a major museum at the site as well as several monuments. There are also some remnants of the battle such as trenches and pillboxes but these things are not yet accessible to visitors. }} * {{listing | name=Liuzhou Military Museum | alt=柳州市军事博物园 | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.268133 | long=109.392879 | directions=[[Liuzhou]], [[Guangxi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Reportedly the largest military museum in southwestern China. The museum is noteworthy for being on the grounds of the old Liuzhou Airport. During the Second World War, the airport was an important base for the Chinese airforce as well as allied group such as the Flying Tigers and the Soviet Volunteer Group. Many of the wartime buildings still survive and there are exhibitions about the war. }} ===Hainan=== ====Dongfang==== [[File:Basuo WW2 site 20.jpg|thumb|Monument to the laborers killed in Basuo]] * {{listing | name=Burial site of laborers killed in Basuo during the Japanese occupation of Hainan | alt=日军侵琼八所死难劳工遗址 | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.093003 | long=108.622846 | directions=[[Dongfang]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-01-16 | content=During their occupation of Hainan Island, the Japanese army used forced labor to complete several infrastructure projects, including the Daguang Dam, the Shilu Iron Ore Mine and the railway line connecting the mine to the ports in Basuo and Sanya. At first the Japanese mainly relied on Chinese labor but later they began importing POWs that they had captured in Southeast Asia, including POWs who originally hailed from Australia, Canada, Britain and other allied countries. Conditions for the laborers were extremely brutal. Only 6000 of the more than 30,000 laborers survived. Many of the dead are buried here at this site. In 2013, the old prison buildings from the Basuo POW Camp Site were controversially moved here from their original location about 500 meters away. }} * {{listing | name=Hainan Railway Museum | alt=海南铁路博物馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.103534 | long=108.630629 | directions=[[Dongfang]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-01-16 | content=A museum about the history of railways on Hainan Island. Hainan's first railway line was built by the Japanese army in the 1940s using forced labour. The museum's main exhibition hall was originally a Japanese military command center and was later converted into an office for the Hainan Railway Company. }} ====Haikou==== * {{listing | name=Former Residence of Feng Baiju | alt=冯白驹故居 | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.835175 | long=110.472942 | directions=[[Haikou]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-10-17 | content=Feng Baiju (1903-1973) was the chief Communist military leader on Hainan Island during both the Chinese Civil War and the Second Sino-Japanese War. His house was burned down by the Japanese army in 1942 and rebuilt in 1984. There is a small museum about him next to the residence. }} * {{listing | name=Qiongya Red Army Yunlong Reorganization Site | alt=琼崖红军云龙改编旧址 | url= | email= | address= | lat=19.875957 | long=110.469078 | directions=[[Haikou]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-10-18 | content=In 1938, at this site in the town of Yunlong, the Qiongya Workers and Peasants‘ Red Army led by Feng Baiju was reorganized and rebranded as the Independent Column of District 14 of the Guangdong People's Anti-Japanese Defense Corps. This was done in the wake of an agreement by Communist and Kuomintang forces to halt the civil war and work together to fight the invading Japanese army. A memorial was set up at the site in 1952 and additional structures were erected here in the 1980s and 1980s, including a bronze statue of a soldier from the Qiongya Independent Column. The exhibition hall provides a detailed overview of Hainan's experience during the Second Sino-Japanese War, though unfortunately there is no information in English. }} ===Heilongjiang=== * {{listing | name=Northeast China Revolutionary Martyrs’ Memorial Hall | alt=东北烈士纪念馆 | url=http://www.jn1948.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=45.763862 | long=126.636537 | directions=[[Harbin]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-02-14 | content=During the Japanese occupation of Harbin, this building was used as the Harbin police headquarters of the Japanese puppet state of Manchukuo. It played a pivotal role in the suppression of those who were opposed to Japanese rule. A number of prominent Chinese patriots were imprisoned and tortured here. In 1948, the Communist Party turned this place into a martyrs’ memorial. Today it has exhibitions on 162 individuals who died fighting the Japanese and 118 individuals who died during the Chinese Civil War. }} * {{listing | name=Unit 731 Museum | alt=华日军第七三一部队罪证陈列馆 | url=http://www.731museum.org.cn | email= | address= | lat=45.607294 | long=126.637167 | directions=[[Harbin]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60577004 | lastedit=2016-01-10 | content=A museum in Harbin located in a former bio-chemical weapons testing facility built by the Japanese and used to perform experiments on over 10,000 civilians and POWs. After the war, the Americans agreed to cover up their actions and grant immunity from prosecution to the scientists involved in exchange for being granted exclusive access to the data, as they feared that the data would end up in the hands of the Soviet Union, and many of those scientists ended up having successful careers in academia and industry. }} ===Henan=== * {{listing | name=Eighth Route Army Luoyang Office Museum | alt=八路军驻洛办事处纪念馆 | url=http://wwj.ly.gov.cn/luobaban/ | email= | address= | lat=34.67788116353488 | long=112.4751222718965 | directions=[[Luoyang]], [[Henan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content=The museum is inside a traditional Chinese mansion built in 1831 that was originally the home of a wealthy merchant. Between 1938 and 1942, the mansion served as the Luoyang office of the Eighth Route Army, a Communist controlled group army that was created from the Red Army when the Communists and the Nationalists formed the Second United Front against Japan. }} ===Hubei=== ====Wuhan==== * {{listing | name=Former Residence of Zhou Enlai | alt=周恩来故居 | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.5368522600 | long=114.3659825900 | directions=[[Wuhan/Wuchang|Wuchang District, Wuhan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours=| price= | lastedit=2020-03-13 | content=CCP statesman Zhou Enlai lived here with his wife for four months in 1938 while helping to coordinate the war against Japan. The residence has been fully restored and is open to the public. }} * {{listing | name=Former Site of Eighth Route Army Wuhan Office | alt=八路军武汉办事处旧址纪念馆, Memorial Museum of Wuhan Office of Chinese Eighth Route Army | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.6085138500 | long=114.3039482500 | directions=[[Wuhan/Hankou|Jiang'an District, Wuhan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-03-09 | content=The Eighth Route Army was a Communist-controlled army unit nominally subordinate to the Kuomintang-led Chinese national army during the Second World War. The army's former office in Wuhan is now a museum with exhibits relating to the war. }} [[File:汉口新四军军部旧址4.jpg|thumb|The New Fourth Army Hankou Headquarters site]] * {{listing | name=Former Site of New Fourth Army Hankou Headquarters | alt=汉口新四军军部旧址纪念馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.6088348500 | long=114.3056012500 | directions=[[Wuhan/Hankou|Jiang'an District, Wuhan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours=| price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-03-09 | content=The New Fourth Army was the second of the two major Communist-controlled army units that fought during the Second World War. The New Fourth Army's former headquarters is just around the corner from the former site of the Eighth Route Army Wuhan Office, so the two sites are probably best visited together. }} * {{listing | name=Shimen Peak Memorial Park | alt=石门峰纪念公园 | url=http://www.027smf.com/ | email= | address= | lat=30.5157217100 | long=114.4825434800 | directions=[[Wuhan/East|Hongshan District, Wuhan]] | phone=| tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-03-18 | content=The park is divided into several sections, one of which is the Wuhan War of Resistance Memorial Park (武汉抗战纪念园), which commemorates the heroes of the war against Japan and is located next to the Cemetery for Air Force Matrys Who Defended Greater Wuhan (保卫大武汉中国空军英烈墓园). On Shimen Peak Road (石门峰路), just outside the park's main entrance, you will find the Museum of the Hubei Soldiers and Citizens War of Resistance Against Japan (湖北军民抗战博物馆), which has exhibits about the war in Hubei. }} * {{listing | name=Wuhan Art Museum | alt=武汉美术馆 | url=http://www.wuhanam.com/ | email= | address=2 Baohua Street, Jiang'an District (江岸区保华街2号) | lat=30.5865443700 | long=114.2875342400 | directions=[[Wuhan/Hankou|Jiang'an District, Wuhan]] | phone=| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-02-07 | content=The museum is housed inside the former Jincheng Bank. The building was used as a military headquarters by the Japanese during their occupation of the city. }} * {{listing | name=Yaojiashan Scenic Area | alt=姚家山风景区, Mount Yaojia Scenic Area | url=http://www.yjsly.com/ | email= | address= | lat=31.2538615700 | long=114.1881630000 | directions=[[Wuhan/North|Huangpi District, Wuhan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-03-07 | content=A tourist resort in a scenic mountain village. The village played an important role in the Second World War, being the site of a base for the Fifth Division of the New Fourth Army. The old army office has been preserved as a heritage site and there is a museum nearby. }} * {{listing | name=Zhongshan Park | alt=中山公园 | url=http://www.zhongshanpark.com/ | email= | address= | lat=30.5893239300 | long=114.2657999200 | directions=[[Wuhan/Hankou|Jianghan District, Wuhan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2020-03-04 | content=On the left side of the Sun Yat-Sen statue is a building where Japanese forces stationed in Hubei formally surrended to the Chinese government in 1945. The building is now a museum dedicated to the event. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Zhongshan Warship Museum | alt=武汉市中山舰博物馆 | url=http://www.zhongshanwarship.org.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=30.348333 | long=114.129444 | directions=[[Wuhan/Jiangxia|Jiangxia District, Wuhan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=SS Zhongshan | image=SS Zhongshan - P1540072.JPG | wikidata=Q10875319 | lastedit=2018-03-18 | content=This museum, near the right bank of the Yangtze in the far southwestern suburbs of Wuhan, commemorates a naval battle that happened here, hundreds of miles from the sea, in October 1938. Sunk by the Japanese air force - just three years before the Pearl Harbor attack on the US fleet - the Chinese warship ''Zhongshan'' was raised from the bottom of the Yangzte in 1997, restored, and is now displayed in this museum's main hall. Adjacent are exhibits on the history of the ship, as well as the process of its lifting from the river bottom and its restoration. On the top of a hill across the small lake from the museum is a memorial to the 25 sailors, including the ship's captain, who found their watery grave in the Yangtze, far from their hometowns on [[Northern Coast (Fujian)|Fujian's northern coast]]. The lake is surrounded by sculptures commemorating various aspects of the Battle of Wuhan in 1938, as well as of the city's eventual liberation after the surrender of Japan in 1945. Various other exhibits of military and patriotic nature, such as a sampling of PLA's older weaponry, can be seen here as well. }} ===Hunan=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=[[Changsha]] | alt=长沙 | url=http://www.changsha.gov.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=28.196111 | long=112.972222 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Changsha | wikidata=Q174091 | content=The site of four separate battles between the Chinese and Japanese in 1939, 1941, 1942 and 1944. The first of those was the first time a major city was successfully defended by the Chinese from the Japanese during World War II. The Japanese were only able to capture Changsha on their fourth attempt in 1944. One of the battlefields has been preserved at the Yingzhushan War of Resistance Site Park (影珠山抗战遗址公园) about 70km northeast of downtown Changsha. One can also visit war memorials, graves and former military buildings at the Yuelu Mountain National Scenic Area (岳麓山国家重点风景名胜区) in the western part of the city. }} * {{listing | name=Memorial to the Victims of the Changjiao Massacre | alt=厂窖惨案遇难同胞纪念馆 | url=http://www.cj1943.cn/sy.html | email= | address=Changjiao, [[Nan County]], [[Hunan]] | lat=29.157828 | long=112.243421 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-08-21 | content=Has exhibitions on the Changjiao Massacre, the second worst massacre perpetrated by Japanese forces in China during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Around 30,000 unarmed civilians in the town of Changjiao were brutally executed over a period of four days in May 1943. }} ===Jiangsu=== ====Nanjing==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Nanjing Massacre Memorial | alt=侵华日军南京大屠杀遇难同胞纪念馆 | url=http://www.19371213.com.cn/en/ | email= | address= | lat=32.035528 | long=118.743519 | directions=[[Nanjing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders | wikidata=Q32391 | content=Commemorates the late 1937 slaughter of a huge number of civilians in and around [[Nanjing]] by the invading Japanese army. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Nanjing Memorial Hall to Aviation Martyrs Killed in the War of Resistance Against Japan | alt=南京抗日航空烈士纪念馆, Nanjing Anti-Japanese Aviation Martyrs Memorial Hall | url= | email= | address= | lat=32.0913688885 | long=118.8412119211 | directions=[[Nanjing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | content=Dedicated to all those who fought and died during the aerial battles that were fought against the Japanese during the Second World War. The memorial hall is close to a cemetery where around 3500 aviation martyrs are buried, including 870 from China, 2197 from the US, 237 from the Soviet Union and 2 from Korea. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Nanjing Non-Government Museum of the War of Resistance Against Japan | alt=南京民间抗日战争博物馆 | url=http://www.1937nanjing.org/ | email= | address=| lat=31.9754290906 | long=118.7569650489 | directions=[[Nanjing]] | phone=| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-10-27 | content=A privately-run museum dedicated to the Second Sino-Japanese War. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Former site of Japanese Shinto shrine | alt=日本神社旧址 | url= | email= | address= | lat=32.0501067917 | long=118.7705944341 | directions=[[Nanjing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-11-05 | content=Built in 1939 by the Imperial Japanese Army during their occupation of the city. The shrine, officially known as the Nanjing Shrine (南京神社), was one of the largest Shinto shrines the Japanese built on Chinese soil. It was also one of the very few that was not demolished after the war. Today the site is being used as an activity centre for retired Communist Party cadres, so you might not be able to enter the building, but viewing it from the outside should be okay. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=John Rabe's former residence | alt=拉贝旧居，拉贝故居, 拉贝与国际安全区纪念馆 John Rabe and International Safety Zone Memorial Hall | url=https://rabe.nju.edu.cn/main/index.asp | email= | address=| lat=32.0525119928 | long=118.7782076805 | directions=[[Nanjing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours=| price= | wikipedia=John_Rabe_House | wikidata=Q1699038 | lastedit=2019-06-19 | content=John Rabe (1882-1950) was a German businessman and Nazi party member who is widely celebrated in China for his efforts to protect civilians during the Japanese occupation. This house was his residence from 1932 to 1938. It is now a museum dedicated to telling the story of Rabe's life and the Nanjing International Safety Zone that he helped to establish and which is credited with saving thousands of lives. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Liji Alley Comfort Station Site | alt=利济巷慰安所旧址 | url=http://www.19371213.com.cn/en/lijixiang/ | email= | address= | lat=32.0410687310 | long=118.7924882112 | directions=[[Nanjing]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-06-25 | content=The term 'comfort station' was a euphemism used by the Japanese army in World War II to refer to a brothel where so-called 'comfort women' were held captive and forced to render sexual services to Japanese soldiers. This particular comfort station was one of the largest in Asia. It is now a museum run by the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall. Entry is by appointment only. Visitors are required to make an appointment at least one day before visiting and cannot visit more than twice a month or more than 10 times a year. Due to the adult content of the exhibitions, children are not permitted inside the building. }} ====Other cities==== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Iris Chang Memorial Hall | alt=张纯如纪念馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=33.61009877757154 | long=119.05495763860274 | directions=[[Huai'an]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-03-01 | content=Dedicated to the memory of Iris Chang (1968-2004), a well-known Chinese American writer whose 1997 book ''The Rape of Nanking'' did much to raise public awareness of the Nanjing Massacre. The memorial hall has exhibitions on Chang's life and the Nanjing Massacre. }} * {{listing | name=Memorial Hall of the Last Campaign of the War of Resistance Against Japan | alt=抗日战争最后一役纪念馆 | url=http://www.gykzjn.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=32.785657 | long=119.430817 | directions=[[Gaoyou]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-01-02 | content=A memorial hall dedicated to the Gaoyou–Shaobo Campaign of December 1945. According to China's official history, it was the last campaign of the Second Sino-Japanese War. However, it may also be regarded as a campaign of the Chinese Civil War. It was fought between the PLA's New Fourth Army and a group of Japanese and collaborationist Nationalist forces. The PLA won an overwhelming victory. The memorial hall is inside an old church where the surviving Japanese and collaborationist forces surrended to the New Fourth Army. }} ===Jilin=== *{{listing | name=Puppet Imperial Palace of Manchukuo | alt=伪满皇宫; Wěimǎnhuánggōng | url=http://www.wmhg.com.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=43.90356 | long=125.3428 | directions=[[Changchun]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo | wikidata=Q83332 | content=Home of Pu Yi, the last emperor of China and puppet emperor of Manchukuo, and centre of the Manchukuo administration at the time. The grounds are nicely restored, since the site was repurposed as a factory during the Cultural Revolution. Scenes from the acclaimed 1987 film ''The Last Emperor'' were filmed here. }} *{{listing | name=Norman Bethune Health Science Center of Jilin University | alt=吉林大学白求恩医学部 | url=http://jdyxb.jlu.edu.cn/en/index.htm | email= | address= | lat=43.868 | long=125.302768 | directions=[[Changchun]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Norman Bethune was a remarkable Canadian doctor. He is quite famous in China, partly because Mao wrote an essay about meeting him and millions of kids read that in school. He was a military doctor in both World War I and the Spanish Civil War. Some sources credit him with inventing the M.A.S.H. field hospital while in Spain.<br />When came to China in 1938 the Americans wanted to send him to the Nationalist Army, but he refused and went to the Communists instead. He founded this school in 1939, initially to train "barefoot doctors", peasants trained to help when there was a desperate shortage of army medics. Today it offers more conventional training for doctors, nurses and other health workers. There is a small museum dedicated to Norman Bethune on the ground floor. }} ===Liaoning=== ====Fushun==== * {{listing | name=Fushun War Criminals Management Centre | alt=抚顺战犯管理所; Fǔshùn Zhànfànguǎnlǐsuǒ | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.881436 | long=123.901647 | directions=[[Fushun]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Fushun War Criminals Management Centre | wikidata=Q826694 | content=It was here that the last emperor, Puyi, along with other Japanese and Kuomintang war criminals, were detained after the end of World War II. The site is now open for tourists to view. The galleries show the transformation of the war criminals and their living conditions. }} * {{listing | name=Pingdingshan Massacre Memorial Hall | alt=平顶山惨案遗址纪念馆; Píngdǐngshān Cǎnàn Jìniànguǎn | url= | email= | address= | lat=41.832775 | long=123.921319 | directions=[[Fushun]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=In 1932, in an event know to history as the Pingdingshan Massacre (or Pingdingshan Tragedy), 3000 people in the village of Pingdingshan were killed by the Japanese army. This site marks a mass grave where, in 1972, the bodies of 800 victims were found. }} ====Shenyang==== [[File:2014 9-18 Mukden Incident Museum, Shenyang, Diorama 3.jpg|thumb|Diorama at the 9.18 Memorial museum]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=9.18 Memorial Museum | alt=“九•一八”历史博物馆, 9.18 History Museum | url=http://www.918museum.org.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=41.8340902450 | long=123.4614850050 | directions=[[Shenyang]] | phone=| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q10878634 | content=Dedicated to the Mukden Incident, which is usually referred to as the '9.18 Incident' in Chinese. At 22:30 on 18 September 1931, a bomb exploded beside the Japanese-run railway line near Shenyang. The Japanese had actually planted the bomb themselves, but the Chinese were blamed, giving the Japanese an excuse to invade and occupy the whole of the northeast of China. Shenyang was the epicenter of that invasion, so it is most appropriate that the museum for the '9.18 Incident', as it is known, is in Shenyang next to the spot where the explosion occurred. The museum, as one would expect, depicts the incident from a Chinese perspective. It is not for the faint of heart because it unflinchingly displays the atrocities of war. Only the main descriptions are available in English, but it's enough to follow the course of events. The pictures and exhibits speak for themselves, anyway. }} * {{listing | name=Former Site of Shenyang Military Tribunal for the Trial of Japanese War Criminals | alt=中国审判日本战犯法庭旧址陈列馆 | url=http://www.918museum.org.cn/index.php/article/listarticle/pid/222/rel/tabs/sidebar/sidebar | email= | address= | lat=41.826822 | long=123.429671 | directions=[[Shenyang]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-02-09 | content=36 Japanese war criminals were publicly tried and prosecuted at this site between June 9th and July 20th, 1956. The site is now a museum. }} * {{listing | name=Shenyang World War II Allied Prisoners Camp Site Museum | alt=二战盟军战俘集中营旧址陈列馆 | url=http://www.918museum.org.cn/index.php/article/listarticle/pid/222/rel/tabs/sidebar/sidebar#tab1 | email= | address= | lat=41.807085 | long=123.485611 | directions=[[Shenyang]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-11-08 | content=From 1942 to 1945, around 1500 soldiers from six different countries were interned by the Japanese at this POW camp in Shenyang. The site is now a museum. Information is provided in both Chinese and English. }} ===Shaanxi=== ====Xi'an==== * {{listing | name=Eighth Route Army Xi'an Office Museum | alt=八路军西安办事处纪念馆 | url=http://www.xabb.org.cn/homePage/1.html | email= | address= | lat=34.274222 | long=108.95018 | directions=[[Xi'an]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-02-02 | content=From 1937 to 1946, this site served as the Communist Eighth Route Army's official liaison office for coordinating communications with the Nationalist authorities in Xi'an. }} * {{listing | name=Sanqin Museum of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression | alt=三秦抗战纪念馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=34.221808391141984 | long=109.02155130788826 | directions=[[Xi'an]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-04-08 | content=A museum about the Second World War in Shaanxi Province (Sanqin is an old name for Shaanxi). }} ====Xi'an Incident sites==== Chinese politics in the 1930s were complex. The Nationalists under Chiang Kai-shek were nominally in charge, but in many areas local warlords held the real power, some ethnic minority areas were ''de facto'' independent, and the Communists held other regions (see [[Long March]]). The strength of a political group was measured not mainly by how many votes it could get, but rather by how many divisions it could put in the field. Yang Hucheng was the warlord of [[Shaanxi]], the province whose capital is Xi'an. Chang Hsüeh-liang (Zhang Xueliang) was the "Young Marshal" whose family had ruled [[Manchuria]]. The Japanese assassinated his father (the "Old Marshal") in 1928, after he had acknowledged that Manchuria was part of China and accepted nominal subordination to Chiang. When the Japanese took over the region completely in 1931 the son retreated into central China, bringing an army. Both generals were nominally subordinate to Chiang, and in 1936 he ordered them to attack the Communists. Instead they arrested him and held him until he agreed to co-operate with the Communists against the Japanese. * {{listing | name=Huaqing Pool | alt=华清池 | url=http://en.hqc.cn/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Xi'an]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4133842 | lastedit=2021-02-06 | content=A hot spring villa in Xi'an where Chiang was held. Also famous as the site where legend has it that Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang Dynasty had his romance with his favourite concubine Yang Guifei. }} Two heritage properties are administered by the Xi'an Incident Museum (西安事变纪念馆). * {{listing | name=General Yang Hucheng's Zhiyuan Villa | alt=杨虎城将军止园别墅 | url=http://www.xasb.net/ | email= | address= | lat=34.27309822998174 | long=108.93513314817096 | directions=[[Xi'an]] | phone=| tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-02-03 | content=The property has been restored to appears as it did in 1930s and has exhibitions about General Yang Hucheng and his role in the Xi'an Incident. }} * {{listing | name=General Zhang Xueliang's Official Residence | alt=张学良将军公馆, General Chang Hsüeh-liang's Official Residence | url=http://www.xasb.net/ | email= | address= | lat=34.2586891506127 | long=108.96303789196315 | directions=[[Xi'an]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-02-03 | content=The Xi'an Incident Museum's main exhibition halls are at this site. }} Chiang's release was negotiated by Soong Ching-ling, widow of Sun Yat Sen and one of very few people trusted by everyone involved. [[Shanghai/French_Concession#Soong Ching-ling's Former Residence|Her home]] in Shanghai's French Concession is also a tourist attraction. ===Shandong=== * {{listing | name=[[Tai'erzhuang]] | alt=台儿庄 | url= | email= | address= | lat=34.559172 | long=117.737412 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q626796 | lastedit=2021-05-11 | content=Site of the Battle of Tai'erzhuang in 1938, the first victory the Chinese scored against the Japanese during the Second Sino-Japanese War, thus giving the Chinese forces a much needed morale boost. Today, the town has a well-preserved old town, with a museum and several art installations commemorating the battle. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Weixian Concentration Camp Museum | alt=潍县集中营博物馆 | url=http://www.wfsldy.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Weifang]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7980168 | content=The site of a concentration camp where thousands of Western prisoners of war, including Eric Liddell, who was portrayed in the movie Chariots of Fire, were interned during the Japanese occupation. This is an interesting and little-known site in Weifang. The names of the prisoners are written in Chinese on the monument, but their English names are on a plaque to the south. }} ===Shanghai=== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Chinese "Comfort Women" History Museum | alt=中国“慰安妇”历史博物馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=31.1642481947 | long=121.4166524084 | directions=[[Shanghai/French Concession|French Concession, Shanghai]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-05-23 | content=A museum about the women who were forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese army during the Second World War. }} * {{listing | name=Former Site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea | alt=大韩民国临时政府旧址 | url=http://dh.huangpuqu.sh.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=31.219242 | long=121.47016 | directions=[[Shanghai/French Concession|French Concession, Shanghai]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=In 1919, during the Japanese occupation of Korea, Korean independence activists in Shanghai established the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea. This building served as the provisional government's main headquarters from 1926 to 1932. The site is now owned and preserved as a museum by [[South Korea]]. Everything is explained in Chinese and Korean, and there's nothing in English. }} * {{listing | name=Jinshanwei War of Resistance Heritage Park | alt=金山卫抗战遗址纪念园 | url= | email= | address= | lat=30.720947 | long=121.317831 | directions=[[Shanghai/Jinshan|Jinshan District, Shanghai]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-04-18 | content=Commemorates the landing of Japanese troops in the coastal town of Jinshanwei on November 5th, 1937. The Japanese encountered little resistance, as Chinese army divisions that had formerly been stationed in the area had been redeployed elsewhere. Following the Japanese landings at Jinshanwei, the Chinese soldiers in Shanghai were surrounded from both the north and the south, so three days later, on November 8th, Chinese central command made the fateful decision to order all forces to abandon the city and retreat to the west. The park includes a number of monuments, as well as a museum about the Jinshanwei landings. The museum is inside the Jinshanwei Fort, a reconstructed Ming Dynasty fort that was destroyed during the [[Taiping Rebellion]]. }} * {{listing | name=Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum | alt=上海犹太难民纪念馆 | url=http://www.shhkjrm.com/ | email= | address= | lat=31.255856245997556 | long=121.50499125991301 | directions=[[Shanghai/Hongkou|Hongkou District, Shanghai]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum | wikidata=Q11078482 | lastedit=2020-08-20 | content=The museum is at the site of what used to be the Ohel Moishe Synagogue. The synagogue was built in 1928 by Russian Jews and was one of the principal places of worship for Jewish refugees in Shanghai during the Second World War. }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Shanghai Songhu Memorial Hall for the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression | alt=上海淞沪抗战纪念馆 | url=http://www.813china.com/ | email= | address= | lat=31.4117444975 | long=121.4906606358 | directions=[[Shanghai/Baoshan|Baoshan District, Shanghai]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Battle_of_Shanghai | wikidata= | lastedit=2019-04-02 | content=Commemorates the Battle of Shanghai, one of the largest and bloodiest battles of the Second Sino-Japanese War. }} [[File:Sihang warehouse under fire.jpg|thumb|The Sihang warehouse, fought over in 1937 and still standing]] * {{listing | type=listing | name=Sihang Warehouse Battle Memorial | alt=上海四行仓库抗战纪念馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=31.2423167129 | long=121.4669387702 | directions=[[Shanghai/Zhabei|Zhabei District, Shanghai]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Defense of Sihang Warehouse | wikidata=Q1973870 | lastedit=2019-11-19 | content=The Sihang Warehouse is a historic warehouse on the north bank of Suzhou Creek. It was built in 1931 by four banks, hence the literal name of the warehouse is the 'Four Banks Warehouse'. In 1937, the warehouse became a flashpoint in the latter stages of the Battle of Shanghai. At that time, it was being used as the headquarters of the 88th Division of the National Revolutionary Army. The division was preparing to retreat to the city's hinterland, but left one battalion behind at the warehouse in order to buy time for the retreat and also to demonstrate to the international community the determination of the Chinese people to resist the Japanese. The battalion successfully defended the warehouse for about 6 days before eventually retreating to the International Concession, where they were promptly disarmed and arrested by British troops acting under pressure from the Japanese. Part of the warehouse is now a museum about the Defence of Sihang Warehouse and the Battle of Shanghai. }} ===Shanxi=== *{{listing | name=Huangya Cave Cultural Tourism Area | alt=黄崖洞文化旅游区; Huángyádòng Wénhuà Lǚyóu Qū | url=http://www.huangyadong.com/ | email= | address= | lat=36.794058 | long=113.377697 | directions=[[Changzhi]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=More than just a geological park, this is also an important historical site. During the Second World War, the Communist-led Eighth Route Army set up a military base here, which included the army’s first armaments factory. In November 1941, Eighth Route Army forces at the base successfully fought off an attack by the Japanese army despite being outnumbered 6 to 1. The former military base is now one of the key attractions in the park. }} * {{listing | name=Shanxi Museum of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Agression | alt=山西烽火抗战博物馆 | url=http://www.sxkzbwg.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=37.872958 | long=112.556588 | directions=[[Taiyuan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-24 | content= }} ===Yunnan=== ====Kunming==== * {{listing | name=Burma Road History Museum | alt=滇缅公路历史博物馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.028073 | long=102.630314 | directions=[[Kunming]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-07-24 | content=A museum about the [[Burma Road]]. The museum was founded by Chen Daya, the author of a book about the Overseas Chinese drivers and mechanics who came to China to work on the Burma Road. The museum does not have a lot of artefacts, but has many photographs, illustrations and models. The most valuable and authentic item on display is an old case used for carrying items along the Burma Road. If you understand Mandarin, a friendly guide dressed in period costume can give you a free tour of the museum. A signed copy of Chen's book (published in Chinese only) can be purchased from the museum gift shop. }} * {{listing | name=Kunming Flying Tigers Museum | alt=昆明飞虎队纪念馆 | url=http://www.kmflyingtiger.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat=25.038669 | long=102.718113 | directions=[[Kunming]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Flying Tigers | content=This commemorates a group of volunteer American fighter pilots who fought in China. Kunming was their main base. Some of their other bases included [[Huaihua]], [[Guilin]], [[Liuzhou]] and [[Chongqing]]. These cities also have their own museums dedicated to the Flying Tigers. }} * {{listing | name=National Southwestern Associated University Site | alt=国立西南联合大学旧址 | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.059384 | long=102.695998 | directions=[[Kunming]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=National_Southwestern_Associated_University | wikidata=Q519556 | lastedit=2019-05-07 | content=The National Southwestern Associated University was a wartime amalgamation of Peking University, Tsinghua University and Nankai University, which were and still are among China's most prestigious universities. It was established in [[Changsha]] in 1937 following the occupation of university campuses in Beijing and Tianjin by Japanese forces and was originally known as the Changsha Temporary University. In 1938, the university relocated to this site in Kunming following heavy air raids on Changsha and continued to operate here until the end of the war. The site, which is now part of Yunnan Normal University, is a national level heritage site and is open to the public. }} * {{listing | name=Victory over Japan Memorial Hall | alt=抗战胜利纪念堂, 抗战胜利堂, Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.043573033868316 | long=102.70604343407724 | directions=[[Kunming]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-07-25 | content=Completed in 1947, this was one of the first war memorials to be commissioned in China following the end of the Second World War. It is now a national heritage site. }} * {{listing | name=Yunnan Military Academy | alt=云南陆军讲武堂旧址 | url=http://www.yunnanmilitaryacademymuseum.com/ | email= | address= | lat=25.050833 | long=102.699444 | directions=[[Kunming]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Yunnan Military Academy | image=Kunming Yunnan Lujun Jiangwutang Jiuzhi 2014.09.26 18-26-32.jpg | wikidata=Q9665597 | content=The Yunnan Military Academy is a historic military academy that was founded in 1909 during the final years of the Qing Dynasty. It continued to operate after the Xinhai Revolution (1911) and was one of the most important military academies in China up until its closure in 1935. A number of Chinese military leaders who took part in the Second World War received their training here. A museum at the site explains the history. Among the exhibitions is a major exhibition on the Chinese Expeditionary Force, a unit of the Chinese army that was dispatched to Burma and India to assist the Allies in fighting Japanese forces in those countries. }} ====Tengchong==== * {{listing | name=Laifengshan National Forest Park | alt=来凤山国家森林公园 | url= | email= | address= | lat=25.017780 | long=98.478775 | directions=[[Tengchong]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-12 | content=A large park centered around Laifeng Hill (Laifengshan), the highest land formation in the central part of the city and one of the city's major landmarks. During the Second World War, the occupying Japanese forces fortified the hill and used it as a base for maintaining their stranglehold over the city. In 1944, this was one the main battlefields of the Battle of Tengchong, during which the Chinese Expeditionary Force and allied forces fought to liberate the city. The Chinese ultimately won the battle but at a heavy cost. Many of those who fought in the battle are buried at the National Cemetery to the Fallen of World War II (listed below). There are also many soldiers and other people buried on the hill itself, including Zhang Wende, the unofficial wartime governor of Tengchong County who mobilized local civilians to support the war effort. When walking through the park, you will see graves almost everywhere you look. You can also see remnants of the battle such as trenches and bomb craters. At the summit of the hill is the famous Wenbi Pagoda, which was destroyed in the war and rebuilt in 2000. }} [[File:Heroes Graveyard 07.jpg|thumb|National Cemetery to the Fallen of World War II in Tengchong]] * {{listing | name=National Cemetery to the Fallen of World War II | alt=国殇墓园 | url=http://dxkzjng.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=25.029489 | long=98.481267 | directions=[[Tengchong]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=War cemetery with the graves of thousands of Chinese Nationalist soldiers, as well as 19 American Flying Tigers, who died in the 1944 Battle of Tengchong. }} * {{listing | name=Western Yunnan Memorial to War of Resistance Against Japan | alt=滇西抗战纪念馆 | url=http://dxkzjng.cn/ | email= | address= | lat=25.028958 | long=98.481651 | directions=next to the National Cemetery in [[Tengchong]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-27 | content=Large museum dedicated to the Western Yunnan campaign of World War II. Has lots of information in English, though captions for individual items tend to be in Chinese only. The main exhibition halls are on the ground floor, but the exhibitions on the second floor are worth seeing too, especially the exhibition on Japan's biological and chemical weapons program. }} * {{listing | name=Stilwell Road Museum | alt=史迪威公路博物馆 | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.985488 | long=98.518035 | directions=[[Tengchong]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-08-25 | content=A privately-run museum about the Stilwell Road. The museum maintains a very impressive collection of World War II-era military vehicles, including dozens of jeeps and trucks. }} ====Other cities==== * {{listing | name=Memorial Park for Overseas Chinese Drivers and Mechanics from Southeast Asia in Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression | alt=南侨机工回国抗日纪念公园 | url= | email= | address= | lat=24.085733 | long=98.073813 | directions=[[Ruili]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-13 | content=Dedicated to the more 3000 Overseas Chinese drivers and mechanics who chose to leave their homes in Southeast Asia during the Second World War in order to work on the Burma Road. There is a museum in the middle of the park. }} * {{listing | name=Mount Song Battle Site Memorial Park | alt=松山大战遗址纪念园 | url= | email= | address=[[Western Yunnan]] | lat=24.741409 | long=98.905479 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Battle of Mount Song | lastedit=2021-08-17 | content=Site of the Battle of Mount Song, an important battle in which the Chinese forces were successful in reclaiming a key choke point from the Japanese, thus allowing the Burma Road to be reopened. Some of the Chinese soliders who perished in the battle are buried here. Moreover, the battle site itself is remarkably well-preserved. One can see many trenches, tunnels and other features that date from the war. Also at the park is a major memorial, which consists of numerous sculptures of Chinese soldiers symbolising the people who fought and died in the battle, including numerous elderly soldiers, and teenage soldiers as young as 13. }} ==Respect== A Chinese law enacted in 2019 criminalizes the denial of or insult to officially-endorsed heroes and martyrs (i.e. veterans, perhaps also war crime survivors), which include any deviation from the official historiography. For war memorials, acts considered to be disrespectful can be prosecuted. After the War, the Communist and Nationalist parties accused each other of fighting the Japanese in a passive manner — the CPC blames the Kuomintang for purging their units despite the formal alliance and guerrilla warfare gallantry, while the Kuomintang criticizes the communists collected arms to prepare themselves for the future civil war while contributed little guerrilla warfare. The topic is extremely polarizing (and very likely out of the red line in Mainland China). Visitors should try to stay neutral in case of such disputes. Japanese civilian involvement in the war is also controversial. There were indeed Japanese POWs who served in the Communist Eighth Route Army, and Japanese anti-militarist activists operated in China to voice their opposition to Japanese aggression. Like Germans living under Nazi Germany however, most Japanese civilians' attitude is at best indifferent and at worst supportive to the war. A settler colonialist policy was also pursued by Japan in Manchukuo, which was especially painful to locals in [[Northeast China]]. Some Chinese (especially hardline nationalists) resent insufficient retribution and compensation, and believe that Japanese civilians deserved strategic bombings and the atomic bombings of [[Hiroshima]] and [[Nagasaki]] for their support towards the war. ==See also== * [[Pacific War]] * [[World War II in Europe]] * [[World War II in Africa]] * [[Holocaust remembrance]] * [[Korean War]] * [[Indochina Wars]] * [[Chinese revolutions]] {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|World War II}} 3hg4wd905k7wjoj9fw8sul7uwhh3o2m 0 185718 5091160 4997173 2025-07-11T02:54:57Z DaGizza 162256 /* Do */ Updated listing for Beth Haran Garden and Marquee 5091160 wikitext text/x-wiki {{Pagebanner|Yola page banner.jpg}} [[File:Yola-main-entrance (4177052185).jpg|thumb|Yola main entrance]] '''Yola''' ([[Fulfulde phrasebook|Fulfulde]]: ''Ƴoola'') is the capital of [[Adamawa State]], [[North East Nigeria]]. With a population of 337,000 in 2010, it is the largest city in Adamawa State. It is also the seat of the traditional Adamawa emirate. The town is served by the port of Jimeta (9 km north-northwest) on the Benue River, about 800 km above its confluence with the Niger, and by an airfield. It is about 10 km north of the city on the road to Mubi. == Understand == Yola (Fulfulde: Ƴoola) means 'Great Plain' or 'Vast Plain Land'. The name Yola is derived from yolde, a Fula (Fulani language) word signifying a settlement on rising ground. Yola is split into two parts which are the old town of Yola where the Lamido resides and the new city of Jimeta (about 5 km NW) which is the administrative and commercial centre. The ethnic groups in Yola include the Fulbe, Yungur, Kilba, Higgi, Hausa, Bata, Yoruba, Kanuri, and Igbo. It is the home to various institutions of learning, such as the: American University of Nigeria (AUN) (which is Africa's first and only development university), Adamawa State Polytechnic, the Modibbo Adama University of Technology Yola (MAUTECH, previously known as Federal University of Technology). It also houses one of the six campuses of the Nigerian Law school located beside the American University of Nigeria and many other educational institutions. Yola has the first airport in Nigeria and was the first town to have electricity. On 17 November 2015, a suicide bombing killed over 30 people. === History === Yola was founded and made the political centre of Adamawa emirate in 1841, when Modibbo Adama (“Learned One”) Adama, the Fulani founder of the emirate, established Yola as a base in his jihad against the indigenous Bata (Batta) and Vere (Verre) peoples. The municipality of Yola sprawls across the hillside of North-Eastern region of Nigeria. It was the capital of a Fulani state until it was taken over by the British in 1901. Today, it is the capital of Adamawa State, which was formed in 1991 from part of Gongola State. During the Islamic movement led by Shehu Usman Dan Fodio in the early 19th century, Modibbo Adama was recognized as a learned Muslim who could lead the people in the Upper Benue area. Modibbo is the Fulani word for "Professor". Probably the first European to visit the area was Heinrich Barth in 1851, shortly after Yola was founded. He traveled by the Sahara route, coming through Kukawa near Lake Chad, which at the time was the capital of the Borno Empire. ===Climate=== The city’s yearly temperature is 30.81C (87.46F) which is 1.35% higher than Nigeria’s average. == Get in == {{mapframe}} === By plane === Visitors that intend to come into Yola by Air have to make use of the state airport which is Yola International Airport. {{go | name=Yola International Airport (IATA: YOL, ICAO: DNYO) | alt= | url= | email= | address=A8, 640211, Jimeta Yola | lat=9.274951 | long=12.4271 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q8190895 | lastedit=2021-06-29 | content=Yola Airport offers flights throughout the country. YOL is a 30-minute drive from the city centre of Yola. It is 8 km (5.0 mi) northwest of Yola. The airport has night landing capabilities, but night operations are restricted except for passenger flights during pilgrimage (Hajj). The Yola Airport serves no international airlines, but domestic airlines, such as Arik Air, Azman Air, Areo, Contractors, Air Peace, Air Dornier aviation Nigereia and Mar Air fly from Abuha, Lagos, Kano and Maiduguri states. }} === By bus === There are many bus transport companies in Yola that offer daily services from almost all major cities and states around the country. The buses are usually comfortable for short and long journey. You can travel to Yola from major cities like Abuja, Lagos, Kano. Some of the transport companies are: * {{go | name=The Young Shall Grow Motors Limited | alt= | url=http://www.ysgtransport.com/contact | email=yola@ysgtransport.com | address=By Total Filling Station, Opposite Stanbic IBTC Bank, close to Market | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+234 8064821855 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 6AM-6PM | price=₦5,100-7,550 | lastedit=2021-06-29 | content=Young Shall Grow Motors provides buses for inter state and inter country travels in a reliable sense. This bus transport company journeys through numerous routes with bus parks and terminals located in the three regions of the country. Its routes include Lagos, Ibadan, Abuja, Kano, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Jos, Yola, Onitsha, Nnewi, Enugu, Owerri, Aba, Umuaiha, Port-Harcourt, Uyo and Calabar. }} == Get around == Yola being the state capital, it is a major transport hub with buses and taxis heading North to Mubi and Maiduguri, West to Numan, Gombe, jalingo and Bauchi and South to Makurdi and Katsina Ala. Taxis are available to Garoua in Cameroon. There is an airport with regular flights to Abuja, Kano, Maiduguri and Lagos. == See == * {{see | name=[[Gashaka Gumti National Park]] | alt=GGNP | url= | email= | address=Gashaka | lat=7.5429 | long=11.6166 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1495137 | lastedit=2023-01-27 | content=Nigeria’s largest national park was gazetted from two game reserves in 1991. It is located in the mountainous region of North-Eastern Nigeria adjacent to the international border with Cameroon. There is a wide variety of diversity because of the many different terrains, such as savannah grasslands, montane forests, and steep, mountainous regions. Gashaka Gumti National Park is approximately two-thirds of Nigeria's land, which places it within the middle of the African Plate. The only hazard that effects the national park are landslides. This national park has about 103 species of mammals. These species include yellow-backed duiker, African golden cat (Profelis aurata), African buffalo and chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes). The park is contiguous with Faro and Tchabal Mbado National Parks in the Republic of Cameroon. The park experiences varying pleasant weather conditions, depending on one’s location within the park. These range from tropical dry humid, tropical moist humid in the lowlands to sub tropical highland weather on the high plateau around Chappal waddi, Sabere and Fillinga. This corner of West Africa is surely one of Africa’s best kept secrets. The park also contains some historic sites one of which is the pre-1918 German fort and garrison top of Gashaka Hill which was once used as a watch tower by the German military expedition to that area. Gashaka sector of the park can be accessed through Katsina Ala-Takum-Bali-Serti –Bodel Gate and the other from Jalingo-Mutum Biyu-Bali-Serti-Bodel Gate, while the main access to Gumti sector is from Yola-Mayo Belwa-Ganye-Sugu-Toungo. }} *{{see | name=Sukur or Sukur Cultural Landscape | alt= | url=http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/938/ | email= | address= | lat=10.7371 | long=13.5788 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 9AM-5PM | price= | lastedit=2023-01-27 | content=Sukur or Sukur Cultural Landscape is located on a hill above the village of Sukur in the Adamawa State. It is located about 120 km south of Maidaguri local government area of Adamawa state in Northeast Nigeria, in the Mandara Mountains close to Nigeria/Cameroon border.It has a total area of 764.4 ha (1,889 acres). It is about 290 km from Yola, the Adamawa state capital of North Eastern Nigeria. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on a hill above the village of Sukur. Its inscription by UNESCO was done based on the cultural heritage of the Hidi's Palace complex and village, material culture, and the naturally-terraced fields. which are in an intact condition. Sukur is Africa's first cultural landscape to receive World Heritage List inscription. It is a hilltop settlement which stood at an elevation of 1045 m. The total land area covered by the site is 1942.50 ha. Sukur is an ancient settlement with a recorded history of iron smelting technology, flourishing trade, and strong political institution dating back to the 16th century. The area has been under essentially the same form of land management for at least 400 years, under the Dur dynasty of chiefs. Local granite has been used to build terraced fields (which are invested with a spiritual significance with sacred trees and ritual sites), and defensive dry stone walls around homesteads. The area has a long tradition of iron smelting, and village architecture reflects the prevailing social hierarchy, the most prominent set of buildings being the Hidi (chief’s) Palace located on a hilltop overlooking the rest of the village. }} *'''The Three Sisters''' are a natural body of mountains in Song LGA of Adamawa state. Although it is not clearly known how the name of the hill came about, people around the place really behave in appreciation of the natural wonder of this hill. They believe the threesome mountains form a part of them and as such, take them as family. The place is not too far from Jimeta in Yola, because it is just about an hour’s drive from the Adamawa state capital. One interesting aspect of the tree sisters hills is that when you are approaching the mountains, one would only see the three slanting inwards to the right. The most prominent one is the mountain to the left and it is the only one that could be climbed by the adventurous at heart. *'''Mandara Mountains''' are a volcanic range extending about 190 km along the northern part of the Cameroon–Nigeria border, from the Benue River in the south to the north-west of Maroua in the north. *'''Koma''' is a relatively primitive hill-dwelling ethnic group in northern Adamawa, in the Atlantika. The Koma people are divided into three main groups, the hill-dwelling Beya and Ndamti, and the Vomni and Verre lowlanders. *'''Kiri Dam''' is located in Shelleng local government area of Adamawa State in the North East of Nigeria, built across the Gongola River. It is a 1.2-km-long, 20-m-high zoned embankment with an internal clay blanket. The dam was mainly completed in 1982. The reservoir has a capacity of 615 million m³. This dam was built to provide irrigation for the Savannah Sugar Company (SSC) which is a large-scale sugar cane plantation and processing company. * {{see | name=Gorilla Park Yola | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jemata Road Adamawa | lat=9.26775 | long=12.46488 | directions=By land | phone= | tollfree= | hours=8AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2024-07-22 | content= }} == Do == '''Njuwa fishing festival''' is an annual fishing festival performed by the Buatiye (Bata) people of Rugange, Njoboliyo, Dasin, Dulo, Bagale, Dagri, and Vunoklan villages of Adamawa Emirate. Although there is no fixed date for the festival, it usually takes place when the level of the water in the lake reduces. In most cases, it comes up in the month of April. The fishing festival attracts many people from within and outside the state. It is one of the numerous festivals in the state that attracts milling crowds. Some of these festivals include Kuchichep in Takum, Ibi fishing festival in Ibi, Vunon wrestling in Farai near Numan, Yinagu near Gulak and Kilashe feast at Mbulo near Ganye. The festival is usually a two-day festival and it is normally marked by a lot of performances, ranging from traditional dances to competitive running, tug-of-war, boat riding, swimming, fishing, etc. The festival attracts many fishermen with different kinds of style and skill in catching fish. While some make good use of their bare hands and gourds to catch fish, others make use of nets to do so. * {{see | name=Beth Haran Garden and Marquee | alt=Event Center | url=https://bethharanplace.com/ | email= | address=No 4 Ahmadu Bello Road by Jimeta | lat=9.26125 | long=12.46026 | directions= | phone=+234 903 6522 142 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-10PM | price=Limited | image=Beth Haran Garden and Marquee | lastedit=2024-07-22 | content=It's an event centre that provide many services to the people in Yola and the other neighboring states, their service include: leisure area, PA pranking play ground, theater center, event center and ball room. }} == Buy == Yola has local markets and supermarkets where visitors and tourists can go and buy anything they need. === Supermarkets === * {{buy | name=Abba Super Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=Madumari | lat=9.532233 | long=12.456162 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 6AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2021-06-30 | content=Abba Super Market Abba sells such products like food items, groceries, gift items, wines, beauty products, wears among others at an affordable price. }} * {{buy | name=Naiwa Dynasty | alt= | url= | email= | address=No. 50 Numan Road, Madumari | lat=9.187480 | long= 12.474539| directions= | phone=+234 813 452 1263 | tollfree= | hours= 24 hours | price= | lastedit=2021-06-30 | content=Naiwa Dynasty sells all types of grans and dry spices especially corn, maize, beans, guinea beans, green peas, groundnuts, pepper etc. }} == Eat == * {{eat | name=Aun Pizzeria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=9.189311 | long=12.500308 | directions= | phone=+234 803 391 8967 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 7:30AM-10PM | price= | lastedit=2021-06-30 | content=Aun Pizzeria offers African and international cuisine, dine-in, buy & take away, home delivery services, car parking space for customers and catering services. }} * {{eat | name=Lamido Zubairu Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lamido Zubairu Way, opposite Distance Learning | lat=9.209575 | long= 12.466963| directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 9AM-10:30PM | price= | lastedit=2021-06-30 | content=Lamido Zubairu Restaurant deals on local and inter-continental foods. }} * {{eat | name=Damada Munchies | alt= | url= | email= | address=Yola Bye - Pass Rd | lat=9.196369 | long=12.487529 | directions= | phone=+234 813 553 5535 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-06-30 | content=Damada Munchies deals on both local and inter-continental cuisines. }} * {{eat | name=Home Taste Meal | alt= | url= | email= | address=By-Pass, Lamido Zubairu Way, Wuro Hausa | lat=9.197936 | long=12.496958 | directions= | phone=+234 703 205 1127 | tollfree= | hours=Closed 7PM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content= }} * {{eat | name=French Dishes | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wuro Hausa | lat=9.202315 | long=12.502042 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Closed 9PM | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content= }} == Drink == * {{drink | name=iness Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Baisi Cl, karewa jimita | lat=9.243178 | long=12.446174 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=closed 11PM | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Beerport Bar And grill | alt= | url= | email= | address=Tafawa balewa Road, karewa jimeta | lat=9.247727 | long=12.446059 | directions= | phone=+234 8149463194 | tollfree= | hours=closed 10PM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Saaj World | alt= | url= | email= | address=6 Waziri Street Yola North, Jimeta | lat=9.248512 | long=12.449567 | directions= | phone=+234 903 457 5498 | tollfree= | hours= 9AM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Nice Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Karewa, Jimeta | lat=9.28978 | long=12.44327 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content= }} == Sleep == * {{sleep | name=Aun Hotel Conference Center & Spa | alt= | url= | email= | address=228 Modibbo Adama Way | lat=9.2010 | long=12.5037 | directions= | phone=+234 805 870 5555 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit= | content=The hotel has a conference centre that can accommodate up to 150 people for buffet-style lunches & dinners. }} * {{sleep | name=City Green Hotel Yola | alt= | url=http://https:/www.citygreenhotel.com/ | email= | address=Kulle Close, Karewa, Jimeta | lat=9.245221 | long=12.445876 | directions= | phone=+234 808 484 8192 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=El-Bint Hotel and Suites | alt= | url= | email= | address=P.P . Power Street, Off Army Barracks Road, Jimeta | lat=9.235414 | long=12.436865 | directions= | phone=+234 808 331 6417 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Golden Alpine Hotel & Resort | alt= | url= | email= | address=Commissioners Quarters, No 1 Umar Danumma Street, Dougirei | lat=9.240987 | long=12.473556 | directions= | phone=+234 810 142 8880 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout=2PM | price= | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Yola International Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jimeta | lat=9.267254 | long=12.470792 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q131597139 | lastedit=2024-08-03 | content= }} == Stay safe == Stay informed. Keep up-to-date with local news and official updates to anticipate any potential security concerns. Try to avoid travelling at night, Select reputable drivers or transportation services to minimize risks and ensure a smooth ride. Pay attention to your surroundings, avoid suspicious areas, and trust your instincts, Take necessary precautions against diseases like malaria and cholera, and maintain good health habits to ensure a healthy journey. == Connect == In Yola, you would most likely find a reliable coverage of the 2G/3G mobile networks in most areas of this city, but reliable coverage of the 4G network might only be limited to some areas in Yola. Signal strength might diminish further away from the city centre, and you might occasionally experience a network outage for all or some of the mobile phone service providers in some remote areas in the region. Different networks tend to be more stable and reliable in different locations of the region at different times. == Go next == * '''[[Numan]]''' * '''[[Jalingo]]''' * '''[[Fufore]]''' * '''[[Jimeta]]''' * '''[[Mubi]]''' {{IsPartOf|Adamawa State}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|9.2|12.483333}} akn5vyp2rbtvrn3d8bds3qrbiyqrqby 0 187692 5091150 4835779 2025-07-11T02:11:46Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* History */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091150 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Berowra Valley National Park banner.jpg}} '''Berowra Valley National Park''' is a national park in the northern suburbs of [[Sydney]], [[New South Wales]]. ==Understand== ===History=== Berowra Valley National Park is a traditional Aboriginal land. It was where the Guringai lived in the east of Berowra Creek and the Dharug in the west. In the area there are several important places for the indigenous population, such as campfires, clam gathering and also artefacts. Part of the park originally formed as the Elouera Bushland Natural Park which was reserved in 1964 and consisted of 640 hectares. Additional lands were acquired and the park was gazetted for public recreation and the study and preservation of native flora and fauna in 1987. This gazettal was in response to increasing community concern over the development of bushland areas in the Hornsby Shire. The park then came to be known as Berowra Valley Bushland Park. Further land additions were made to the park, which was gazetted as Berowra Valley Regional Park on March 27, 1998, and was gazetted as a national park in September 2012. ===Landscape=== The national park is criss-crossed by valleys with bushes in which eucalyptus and banksia grow. There are 70 in the national park kilometres of hiking trails. The Great North Way, which can be hiked 250 kilometres from Sydney to Newcastle, runs 25 kilometres through the national park. Boats and canoes can be launched and fishing is available in Berowra Creek, which runs through the park. ===Flora and fauna=== Owls, white-tailed eagles, wedge-tailed eagles, kookaburra, gray-backed lily- tail, gray-headed fruit bat, swamp wallaby and the protected frog Pseudophryne australis can be seen in the national park. ===Climate=== The climate of Berowra Valley National Park is usually just like ordinary Sydney weather. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/berowra-valley-national-park Park website] ==Get in== There are numerous ways to get into Berowra Valley National Park, however, the park is only accessible via car. The quickest way to enter the southern parts of the park is when using {{AUR|A28}} Pennant Hills Rd, turn onto Boundary Road and then turn onto Bellamy Street, and continue until the road ends. Another option is to use Shepherds Drive from the western end of the park. ==Fees and permits== None, although the park may be closed without notice during bushfire season. ==Get around== Your only way to get around the park is by walking, or taking your car outside the park and re-entering a different section. ==See== * {{see | name=Barnetts lookout | alt= | url=https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/lookouts/barnetts-lookout | email= | address=cnr Whyanna St and Barnetts Rd, Berowra Heights | lat=-33.616333 | long=151.128175 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-09-30 | content=Stunning lookout overlooking the creek up the top of the valley, making it quite hard to believe that you're still in Sydney. }} * {{see | name=Blackfellow Head Engravings | alt= | url=https://hornsbyshire.recollect.net.au/nodes/view/813 | email= | address=280 Quarter Sessions Rd, Westleigh | lat=-33.699652 | long=151.076558 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-10-05 | content= }} * {{see | name=Historic Military 'Steele' Bridge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Quarry Trail, Berowra Creek | lat=-33.679634 | long=151.085188 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-10-05 | content= }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Great North walk | alt= | url=https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/great-north-walk-berowra-valley-national-park | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-09-30 | content=27km trail one-way which takes about 3-4 days to do. }} * {{do | name=Place of Winds interpretive trail | alt= | url=https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/place-of-winds-interpretive-trail | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-09-30 | content=1.2km boardwalk (one way) that takes you through some mangroves and forests in a very short walk. The walk should only take about half an hour, but it should be advised that it's best not to swim in Berowra creek due to pollution. }} * {{do | name=Lyrebird Gully circuit | alt= | url=https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/lyrebird-gully-circuit | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2021-09-30 | content=There are quite a lot of uhm, Lyrebirds as the name of the walk suggests here. There's also a small boardwalk in the middle of this circuit too. 9km one way, and takes approximately 4-5 hours. }} ==Buy== ==Eat and drink== There are no places to eat nor drink in Berowra Valley National Park. The nearest ones are in the [[Sydney/Upper North Shore|Upper North Shore]]. ==Sleep== There are no places to sleep in Berowra Valley National Park. The nearest accommodation is in the [[Sydney/Upper North Shore|Upper North Shore]]. ==Stay safe== The only concern here is that the creeks are polluted and it's best not to swim in them. Wildlife isn't a problem here. ==Go next== * [[Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park]] is just a little bit east. {{IsPartOf|Sydney}} {{usablepark}} {{geo|-33.64|151.09}} ovr81gy256446in40jc4t7hhv26jvxg 0 188708 5091144 4774949 2025-07-11T02:02:41Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Get in */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091144 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg|pgname=Shoshone}} '''Shoshone''' is a small town in [[South Central Idaho]], and is the county seat Lincoln County. In contrast to the Shoshone Native American tribe for which it is named, the city's name is correctly pronounced "Show-shown", with a silent "e". ==Understand== Founded in 1882 during the construction of the Oregon Short Line, Shoshone has long been considered the main railroad station in south central Idaho's Magic Valley region. The much larger community of Twin Falls, 26 miles to the south, never developed a strong railroad presence due to the logistical issues presented by its location south of the Snake River Canyon. For many years, Shoshone was the only Amtrak stop in south central Idaho. The Union Pacific Railroad opened the Sun Valley resort in 1936 (and owned it until 1964), and its pre-existing spur route to Ketchum connected in Shoshone. The spur first headed northeast, following today's US 93, to Richfield and Tikura, then peeled northwest to Picabo and on to Bellevue, Hailey, and Ketchum, so the distance was greater than today's more direct 55-mile drive north on Highway 75. About 15 miles north of Shoshone are the Shoshone Ice Caves. The caves are lava tubes that stay cool enough for the ice inside them to remain frozen throughout the summer. In the days before refrigeration, this feature, coupled with the railroad, made Shoshone popular with travelers as "the only place for hundreds of miles where one could get a cold beer." ==Get in== Shoshone is located the convergence of US 26, US 93, SH-24, and SH-75. Traffic between the Magic Valley and Sun Valley passes through Shoshone, maintaining its early heritage as a brief rest stop for travelers. ==Get around== ==See== Considered the oldest town in the Magic Valley region, Shoshone had large number of historic buildings which can be seen along the self-guided Shoshone Historic Walking Tour. * {{see | name=Neher Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=located at N 200 E HWY 26 right outside of Shoshone | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-06-22 | content=Named after a late doctor; firearms hunting, trapping and overnight camping aren't allowed, so the animals and other wildlife may enjoy the habitat there. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Shoshone Ice Caves | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=16 mi N of Shoshone on SH-75 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60677571 | lastedit=2021-11-16 | content= }} * {{see | name=Black Magic Slot Canyon | alt= | url=https://visitsouthidaho.com/adventure/black-magic-slot-canyon/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Fall & early winter | price= | lastedit=2021-11-16 | content=The smooth lava rock came from the Shoshone Lava Flow, but about 10,000 years ago the Big Wood River powerfully carved through the lava rock creating this canyon. It is similar in texture to the Utah slot canyons, and is even more intense with the harsh black walls! This adventure is only accessible in the fall and early winter. Flash Floods can occur all other times of the year, and there is no warning when the canyon will fill up with water. Be sure to check water conditions before visiting. }} * {{see | name=Mammoth Cave & Shoshone Bird Museum Of Natural History | alt= | url=https://idahosmammothcave.com/ | email= | address=251 Wesy Thorn Creek Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 208-329-5382 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-11-16 | content= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Governor’s Mansion | alt=Mansion Inn | url=https://visitsouthidaho.com/lodging/governors-mansion/ | email= | address=315 South Greenwood Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 208-886-2858 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-11-16 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Gateway Motel | alt= | url= | email= | address=412 North Greenwood Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+1 208-308-2955 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2021-11-16 | content= }} ==Connect== ==Go next== {{routebox | image1=US 26.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Boise]] | minorl1=[[Mountain Home (Idaho)|Mountain Home]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Idaho Falls]] | minorr1=[[Craters of the Moon National Monument|Craters of the Moon]] | image2=US 93.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=S | majorl2=[[Ely (Nevada)|Ely]] | minorl2=[[Twin Falls]] | directionr2=N | majorr2=[[Missoula]] | minorr2=[[Craters of the Moon National Monument|Craters of the Moon]] | image3=ID-75.svg | imagesize3=22 | directionl3=S | majorl3=END | minorl3= | directionr3=N | majorr3=[[Stanley (Idaho)|Stanley]] | minorr3=[[Sun Valley (Idaho)|Sun Valley]] }} {{IsPartOf|South Central Idaho}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|42.9367|-114.408}} 2gevpnlzt32k10gay8w92w4tm2cdaid 1 189623 5091370 4350664 2025-07-11T11:26:31Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Reorganizing this article */ 5091370 wikitext text/x-wiki ==Reorganizing this article== This article now covers the town of Mao, the surrounding municipality of Mao, and some sites in neighbouring municipalities (El Castell and San Lluis) that are accessible from the town. This makes the map not function very well. I attempted to sort this out by moving everything outside the town (10 listings) into a "Nearby" section with its own map, but that map can't have different coloured markers for see, do, eat, drink sleep listings. I have two ideas for making this easier for readers: *A. Find a better way of separating listings between the two maps so that both have colour-coded markers; '''or''' *B. Create a new article, [[Eastern Menorca]], for the listings outside of the town of Mao. This would require reworking the municipalities map on the [[Menorca]] article. Comments? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:12, 18 December 2021 (UTC) :{{s}} Proposal B. I don't think it's possible to do proposal A from a technical perspective, but there might be a way that I'm not thinking of. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 20:45, 18 December 2021 (UTC) ::Thanks for the feedback. I'll do this unless anyone else has ideas in the next few days. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:23, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::On further thought, this ''might'' be able to be solved by creating a new template, specifically for this article. The only problem is that Wikivoyage's template policy would mean waiting a good two months for that template to be "approved", and why doing proposal B might be more efficient. We could still try proposal A though. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 12:45, 20 December 2021 (UTC) ::::Why do you think templates have to be created, when you can simply edit a page in plain text? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:48, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::::Is there a way of separating listings between two maps (with coloured markers) in plain text? I don't know how to do that. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:55, 20 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::Not that I know of, as the show parameter can't be manipulated. Unless there's a way I'm not thinking of because my 00:07 brain can't think properly. ::::::However, even if there was a way, it may be harder for future editors who are not so technically advanced to edit the page. The maplegend in [[Mungo National Park]] is an example of one that I had to do. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 13:09, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::::You can't use plain text and still manipulate the <code>|show=</code> parameter at the same time. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 13:03, 20 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::What's unique in this situation that existing code can't handle? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 13:20, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::::::When a map is created, it picks up every listing in the article that has Wikidata or coordinates. (See [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Ma%C3%B3&oldid=4347578 this version].) This article covers the town of Mao and sites that are within a reasonable excursion journey. But that means that the map is useless for finding things in the town because it coversva large area. ::::::: Having two maps -- one for the town and one for the region -- would provide the information in a more useful way for readers. There is a way of doing it-- see [[Lac-aux-Sables]], in which places close to the town are on one map, and the Go Next places are on a separate map -- but the second map (using the mapgroup template) shows all of the places with the same colour marker. That's fine for Go Next markers, but in this case, there are see, do, eat, drink, and sleep listings outside of the town. They would appear all in the same color using mapgroup. :::::::In [[Wine Regions of Ontario]], I "forced" separate maps using location and zoom parameters, but that would not work here. It would be useful to have more options for creating maps. ::::::: Splitting this article in two is workable, but a second-best solution. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:26, 20 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::::Alright, if a new template is needed for that, I'd approve it. [[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]], why don't you make a proposal on the appropriate page and point to this thread? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:20, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::::::::sigh... after having a look at the template's mechanism, it doesn't seem there's a way to do the new template based on the mechanism of {{tl|listing}}. It would be possible thru {{tl|marker}} though, which has more flexibilities with the color, but marker doesn't take phone numbers, urls, emails etc.. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 02:49, 21 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::::::I've just finished the template. I cannot seem to find any bugs in it, but the map doesn't seem to work properly. I think maybe option B seems the only option left :-( <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 03:26, 21 December 2021 (UTC) :::::::::::The map mostly works, except the Do listings do not appear, and the names of some of the listings have disappeared. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 04:17, 21 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::::::::Last option, break down the template. Have done that for see and do, and it seems a success. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 04:25, 21 December 2021 (UTC) :::::::::::::Have finished breaking down the template. Seemed like using {{tl|marker}} was the solution rather than using {{tl|listing}}. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 04:36, 21 December 2021 (UTC) {{Outdent}} that formatting works. Thanks {{ping|SHB2000}}. The question now is whether the non-standard formatting for the article is okay with others, i.e., having see, do, eat, drink, sleep subsections in the Nearby section. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:24, 21 December 2021 (UTC) :I'm ok with it, as it seems the only solution to me, but I'm not sure how some others might feel about this structure. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 20:53, 21 December 2021 (UTC) {{ping|Grahamsands|shb2000|Ikan Kekek}} the two-map approach used in this article was discussed a few years ago so that listings outside of the ring would appear on a separate map and not mess up the main map for the town. I see that you have decided, without discussion, to eliminate that approach. Now the out of town listings do not appear on the map, unless the reader manipulates it to get a bigger view. I disagree with this unilateral change, and I think the agreed-upon approach should be restored. I invite others to comment. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:26, 11 July 2025 (UTC) e6gi9ume1ahxrpfinyrrbitcjudsid3 5091371 5091370 2025-07-11T11:26:50Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Reorganizing this article */ 5091371 wikitext text/x-wiki ==Reorganizing this article== This article now covers the town of Mao, the surrounding municipality of Mao, and some sites in neighbouring municipalities (El Castell and San Lluis) that are accessible from the town. This makes the map not function very well. I attempted to sort this out by moving everything outside the town (10 listings) into a "Nearby" section with its own map, but that map can't have different coloured markers for see, do, eat, drink sleep listings. I have two ideas for making this easier for readers: *A. Find a better way of separating listings between the two maps so that both have colour-coded markers; '''or''' *B. Create a new article, [[Eastern Menorca]], for the listings outside of the town of Mao. This would require reworking the municipalities map on the [[Menorca]] article. Comments? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:12, 18 December 2021 (UTC) :{{s}} Proposal B. I don't think it's possible to do proposal A from a technical perspective, but there might be a way that I'm not thinking of. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 20:45, 18 December 2021 (UTC) ::Thanks for the feedback. I'll do this unless anyone else has ideas in the next few days. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:23, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::On further thought, this ''might'' be able to be solved by creating a new template, specifically for this article. The only problem is that Wikivoyage's template policy would mean waiting a good two months for that template to be "approved", and why doing proposal B might be more efficient. We could still try proposal A though. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 12:45, 20 December 2021 (UTC) ::::Why do you think templates have to be created, when you can simply edit a page in plain text? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:48, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::::Is there a way of separating listings between two maps (with coloured markers) in plain text? I don't know how to do that. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:55, 20 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::Not that I know of, as the show parameter can't be manipulated. Unless there's a way I'm not thinking of because my 00:07 brain can't think properly. ::::::However, even if there was a way, it may be harder for future editors who are not so technically advanced to edit the page. The maplegend in [[Mungo National Park]] is an example of one that I had to do. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 13:09, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::::You can't use plain text and still manipulate the <code>|show=</code> parameter at the same time. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 13:03, 20 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::What's unique in this situation that existing code can't handle? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 13:20, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::::::When a map is created, it picks up every listing in the article that has Wikidata or coordinates. (See [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Ma%C3%B3&oldid=4347578 this version].) This article covers the town of Mao and sites that are within a reasonable excursion journey. But that means that the map is useless for finding things in the town because it coversva large area. ::::::: Having two maps -- one for the town and one for the region -- would provide the information in a more useful way for readers. There is a way of doing it-- see [[Lac-aux-Sables]], in which places close to the town are on one map, and the Go Next places are on a separate map -- but the second map (using the mapgroup template) shows all of the places with the same colour marker. That's fine for Go Next markers, but in this case, there are see, do, eat, drink, and sleep listings outside of the town. They would appear all in the same color using mapgroup. :::::::In [[Wine Regions of Ontario]], I "forced" separate maps using location and zoom parameters, but that would not work here. It would be useful to have more options for creating maps. ::::::: Splitting this article in two is workable, but a second-best solution. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:26, 20 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::::Alright, if a new template is needed for that, I'd approve it. [[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]], why don't you make a proposal on the appropriate page and point to this thread? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:20, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::::::::sigh... after having a look at the template's mechanism, it doesn't seem there's a way to do the new template based on the mechanism of {{tl|listing}}. It would be possible thru {{tl|marker}} though, which has more flexibilities with the color, but marker doesn't take phone numbers, urls, emails etc.. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 02:49, 21 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::::::I've just finished the template. I cannot seem to find any bugs in it, but the map doesn't seem to work properly. I think maybe option B seems the only option left :-( <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 03:26, 21 December 2021 (UTC) :::::::::::The map mostly works, except the Do listings do not appear, and the names of some of the listings have disappeared. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 04:17, 21 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::::::::Last option, break down the template. Have done that for see and do, and it seems a success. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 04:25, 21 December 2021 (UTC) :::::::::::::Have finished breaking down the template. Seemed like using {{tl|marker}} was the solution rather than using {{tl|listing}}. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 04:36, 21 December 2021 (UTC) {{Outdent}} that formatting works. Thanks {{ping|SHB2000}}. The question now is whether the non-standard formatting for the article is okay with others, i.e., having see, do, eat, drink, sleep subsections in the Nearby section. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:24, 21 December 2021 (UTC) :I'm ok with it, as it seems the only solution to me, but I'm not sure how some others might feel about this structure. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 20:53, 21 December 2021 (UTC) {{ping|Grahamsands|SHB2000|Ikan Kekek}} the two-map approach used in this article was discussed a few years ago so that listings outside of the ring would appear on a separate map and not mess up the main map for the town. I see that you have decided, without discussion, to eliminate that approach. Now the out of town listings do not appear on the map, unless the reader manipulates it to get a bigger view. I disagree with this unilateral change, and I think the agreed-upon approach should be restored. I invite others to comment. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:26, 11 July 2025 (UTC) ph6vgkcnow4j5cbb0g4uxoocfn16bor 5091396 5091371 2025-07-11T11:49:08Z Grahamsands 2164467 /* Reorganizing this article */ reply 5091396 wikitext text/x-wiki ==Reorganizing this article== This article now covers the town of Mao, the surrounding municipality of Mao, and some sites in neighbouring municipalities (El Castell and San Lluis) that are accessible from the town. This makes the map not function very well. I attempted to sort this out by moving everything outside the town (10 listings) into a "Nearby" section with its own map, but that map can't have different coloured markers for see, do, eat, drink sleep listings. I have two ideas for making this easier for readers: *A. Find a better way of separating listings between the two maps so that both have colour-coded markers; '''or''' *B. Create a new article, [[Eastern Menorca]], for the listings outside of the town of Mao. This would require reworking the municipalities map on the [[Menorca]] article. Comments? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:12, 18 December 2021 (UTC) :{{s}} Proposal B. I don't think it's possible to do proposal A from a technical perspective, but there might be a way that I'm not thinking of. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 20:45, 18 December 2021 (UTC) ::Thanks for the feedback. I'll do this unless anyone else has ideas in the next few days. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:23, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::On further thought, this ''might'' be able to be solved by creating a new template, specifically for this article. The only problem is that Wikivoyage's template policy would mean waiting a good two months for that template to be "approved", and why doing proposal B might be more efficient. We could still try proposal A though. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 12:45, 20 December 2021 (UTC) ::::Why do you think templates have to be created, when you can simply edit a page in plain text? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:48, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::::Is there a way of separating listings between two maps (with coloured markers) in plain text? I don't know how to do that. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:55, 20 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::Not that I know of, as the show parameter can't be manipulated. Unless there's a way I'm not thinking of because my 00:07 brain can't think properly. ::::::However, even if there was a way, it may be harder for future editors who are not so technically advanced to edit the page. The maplegend in [[Mungo National Park]] is an example of one that I had to do. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 13:09, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::::You can't use plain text and still manipulate the <code>|show=</code> parameter at the same time. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 13:03, 20 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::What's unique in this situation that existing code can't handle? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 13:20, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::::::When a map is created, it picks up every listing in the article that has Wikidata or coordinates. (See [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Ma%C3%B3&oldid=4347578 this version].) This article covers the town of Mao and sites that are within a reasonable excursion journey. But that means that the map is useless for finding things in the town because it coversva large area. ::::::: Having two maps -- one for the town and one for the region -- would provide the information in a more useful way for readers. There is a way of doing it-- see [[Lac-aux-Sables]], in which places close to the town are on one map, and the Go Next places are on a separate map -- but the second map (using the mapgroup template) shows all of the places with the same colour marker. That's fine for Go Next markers, but in this case, there are see, do, eat, drink, and sleep listings outside of the town. They would appear all in the same color using mapgroup. :::::::In [[Wine Regions of Ontario]], I "forced" separate maps using location and zoom parameters, but that would not work here. It would be useful to have more options for creating maps. ::::::: Splitting this article in two is workable, but a second-best solution. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:26, 20 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::::Alright, if a new template is needed for that, I'd approve it. [[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]], why don't you make a proposal on the appropriate page and point to this thread? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:20, 20 December 2021 (UTC) :::::::::sigh... after having a look at the template's mechanism, it doesn't seem there's a way to do the new template based on the mechanism of {{tl|listing}}. It would be possible thru {{tl|marker}} though, which has more flexibilities with the color, but marker doesn't take phone numbers, urls, emails etc.. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 02:49, 21 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::::::I've just finished the template. I cannot seem to find any bugs in it, but the map doesn't seem to work properly. I think maybe option B seems the only option left :-( <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 03:26, 21 December 2021 (UTC) :::::::::::The map mostly works, except the Do listings do not appear, and the names of some of the listings have disappeared. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 04:17, 21 December 2021 (UTC) ::::::::::::Last option, break down the template. Have done that for see and do, and it seems a success. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 04:25, 21 December 2021 (UTC) :::::::::::::Have finished breaking down the template. Seemed like using {{tl|marker}} was the solution rather than using {{tl|listing}}. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 04:36, 21 December 2021 (UTC) {{Outdent}} that formatting works. Thanks {{ping|SHB2000}}. The question now is whether the non-standard formatting for the article is okay with others, i.e., having see, do, eat, drink, sleep subsections in the Nearby section. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:24, 21 December 2021 (UTC) :I'm ok with it, as it seems the only solution to me, but I'm not sure how some others might feel about this structure. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 20:53, 21 December 2021 (UTC) {{ping|Grahamsands|SHB2000|Ikan Kekek}} the two-map approach used in this article was discussed a few years ago so that listings outside of the ring would appear on a separate map and not mess up the main map for the town. I see that you have decided, without discussion, to eliminate that approach. Now the out of town listings do not appear on the map, unless the reader manipulates it to get a bigger view. I disagree with this unilateral change, and I think the agreed-upon approach should be restored. I invite others to comment. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:26, 11 July 2025 (UTC) :: Apologies that I hadn't seen this discussion. What I did see was a mess so I plunged forward. :: This is a common issue with cities, they have densely-packed POIs in the centre and outlying POIs beyond the initial map view. The common solution is a single map focused on the former, and all it takes is a "+" click or two for the airport and country club hotel to swim into view. Are we getting feedback that this is problematic for readers? If so, a great many pages are at fault. But otherwise, it's not obvious why this would be a particular problem for Mahon. :: The Menorca page organisation is unsatisfactory and like you I think it could be improved, and I expect to bring a proposal here by & by. But Mahon / Mao would probably remain as a single page. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 11:48, 11 July 2025 (UTC) k09nsy6o8spyrwh5wpf2tzqsboxwq1w 0 190694 5090816 4401184 2025-07-10T13:36:30Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090816 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Achalla''' is a rural area in [[Awka]]. ==Understand== Achalla is the capital of Awka North, a Local Government Area in Anambra State, south-central Nigeria. It comprises eight villages: Umudiani, Amukabia, Odawa, Umuogbe, Umunagu, Umuozede, Udezu and Amadim. ==Get in== === By plane === Prospective visitors/tourists wishing to access Awka by air have to make use of the nearest airport to Awka which is Asaba International Airport (IATA: '''ABB''', ICAO: '''DNAS'''). The airport handles domestic services connecting the city to Nigeria's major metropolitan centres. It also serves Onitsha, across the Niger River in Anambra State. The distance between Asaba International Airport to Awka is 59 km which is 52 minutes by road. === By bus === Many transport companies in Awka offer daily services from almost all major cities and states around the country as well as international destinations in West Africa. Some of the transport companies in Awka are: *{{go | name=GUO Transport | alt= | url=https://guotransport.com/terminals.awka | email= | address=St. Michael Shopping Plaza, by Unizik Junction, Awka-Onitsha Enugu Expressway | lat=6.222669 | long=7.066674 | directions= | phone=+234 807 509 0642 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 5AM-9PM | price=₦2,000 | lastedit=2022-01-20 | content=GUO Transport is known for its comfortable and reliable vehicles and customer service. GUO Transport has Hiace, Sienna and Coach bus. }} *{{go | name=God Is Good Motors | alt=GIGM | url=https://gigm.com/ | email= | address=Elite shopping complex, opposite Crunchies Fries, Enugu/Onitsha Expressway, Awka | lat= 6.263454| long=7.155200 | directions= | phone=+234 813 985 1110 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 5AM-9PM | price=₦1,500 | lastedit=2022-01-20 | content=God is Good Motors (GIGM) is a bus transportation company offering road transport services, bus rental and booking services. GIGM is reputed to be the most technologically-driven road transport company in Nigeria. The company has provided top class road transport services since 1998. }} *{{go | name=ABC Transport PLC | alt=ABC | url=https://www.abctransport.com/ | email=contact@abctransport.com | address=Standard Plaza km 20 Onitsha Enugu expressway Awka, Opposite Crunches Fastfood, beside GIGs motor Awka | lat=6.223696 | long=7.067967 | directions= | phone=+234 814 500 3728 | tollfree= | hours=Daily 5AM-7PM | price=₦1,500-₦20,400 | lastedit=2022-01-20 | content=ABC transport Company's services include Cargo Express and City Transit Inn (CTI). ABC Transport operates in various locations both within and outside Nigeria. The company also offers comfortable lounges in different cities like Jibowu & Amuwo-Odofin in Lagos, Aba, Owerri, Port-Harcourt, Abuja, Enugu, Onitsha, Umuahia, Jos, Mbaise, Bolade, and International destinations include such as Accra (Ghana), Togo, and the Benin Republic. }} ==Get around== {{Mapframe|6.3365|6.9853|zoom=14}} ===By car=== ===By boat=== ===By public transit=== ==See and do== ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Umuezede Market | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.331946 | long=6.989362 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=8AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2022-01-20 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Umunagu Market | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=6.333764 | long=6.989989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=8AM-6PM | price= | lastedit=2022-01-20 | content= }} ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== ===Camping=== ===Backcountry=== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Anambra State}} {{outlineruralarea}} {{geo|6.33|6.98}} eewh2x62c6zwldccvhq1d4p1y8901me 0 194450 5090722 5017488 2025-07-10T12:09:22Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ 5090722 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|pgname=New Town}} [[File:Biswa Bangla Gate.jpg|thumb|Biswa Bangla Gate]] '''New Town''' (নিউটাউন ''Niuṭaun''), also called '''Rajarhat''' (রাজারহাট ''Rājārhāṭ''), is one of the newest satellite towns of [[Kolkata]] at the extreme east. It is the second IT hub of Kolkata, with the offices of TCS, Infosys, Unitech and other fintech (financial technology) companies. '''Eco Park''', one of the largest urban spaces in India, is the main tourist attraction of this district, attracting people from West Bengal and even beyond. New Town was developed in the late 1990s and is rapidly growing under the leadership of the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). The Indian government declared New Town a "Solar City" and later a "Smart Green City". As one of the newest parts of the bustling metropolis, New Town will take you to an ultra-modern world, compared to the "Old Town" of [[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]]. A planned community, New Town is surrounded by [[Kolkata/East|Bidhannagar]] and the [[Kolkata/Northern Suburbs|Northern Suburbs]] at the west, the East Kolkata Wetlands at the south, and the vast rural areas of [[North 24 Parganas|North]] and [[South 24 Parganas]] at north and east respectively. The town is divided into three action areas: I, II and III. Action Area I (AA I) is the main area of the town, and it has various houses, housing complexes, shopping malls, and parks. The parks include children's parks, seniors' parks (like Swapna Bhor), and also parks themed on famous Bengali films (like Apur Sansar, Sonar Kella). The eastern end of AA I is home to various tech complexes. Action Area II (AA II) is surrounded by several tech complexes, with tech parks like Ecospace, FinTech Hub, Synthesis and Bengal Silicon Valley. It also has housing complexes at the northern end, between Mangaldeep and Owl junctions. Eco Park is in AA II. Action Area III (AA III) is the least-developed area, with a mix of both urban and rural areas. It is home to massive housing complexes like Uniworld City and Shapoorji Pallonji's Sukhobrishti. The eastern end has a handful but notable tech complexes of Infosys and ITC Limited. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.592|88.475|width=400|height=450|name=Map of New Town}} 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===By bus=== * {{marker|type=go|name=New Town Bus Stand|lat=22.58281|long=88.45365}} (AH Block, Action Area I) ===By car=== New Town is served by certain arterial roads to and from the township. '''Major Arterial Road''' ('''MAR''') starts from Salt Lake Sector V, then turns left at Narkelbagan More crossing, turns left again at Akankha More and finally meets at VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani) near Kolkata Airport. The road serves the Action Areas I and II. There are two other roads that begin from Narkelbagan More. The one next to Rabindra Tirtha (not the one next to HIDCO Bhaban) runs across Action Area III, while the one opposite Rabindra Tirtha runs across the southern parts of Action Area I before meeting at a narrower 2-lane road next to East Kolkata Wetlands. ==Get around== New Town has a unique transport infrastructure that is rare in the rest of Kolkata or even West Bengal. ===By electric car=== New Town has some charging stations for electric cars, which are very useful for the electric vehicles in West Bengal as the rest of the state has a lack of charging stations. ===By bicycle=== It has some bike paths along footpaths, and they are usually coloured in green. Bicycles are mainly useful for short trips, and for longer trips you have to opt for a bus or car. ==See== * {{see | name=Biswa Bangla Gate | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা গেট ''Biśba Bāṃlā Geṭ'' | url=https://www.biswabanglagatekolkata.in/ | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.578611 | long=88.471667 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39087520 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=An arch monument in New Town and one of the most iconic structures in Greater Kolkata. "Biswa Bangla" literally means "World Bengal". The structure consists of a single ring supported by two parabolic arches from four sides of the Narkelbagan intersection. The ring houses a restaurant and a visitors' gallery, which are surrounded by glass. There are two staircases and an elevator to reach the gallery. Decorative paintings of luminaries have been drawn on the wall inside the ring with the outer side having a glass façade to have a view of the township. }} * {{see | name=Harinalaya | alt=হরিণালয় ''Hariṇālaẏ'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60833 | long=88.46176 | directions=opposite Eco Park Gates 5 and 6, parking space for four-wheelers at ₹50 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM&mdash;6PM (closed at sunsets in winter) | price=₹50 for people above 5, both cash and UPI accepted | lastedit=2024-12-12 | content=A {{acre|12.5}} mini zoo developed by HIDCO, and despite being named after deers (হরিণ ''hariṇ''), the zoo contains other animals as well. At the entrance, there's an aviary at the left and rides at the right. Rides include slides, mini jungle gyms, and swings. There's a waterbody for two large crocodiles and two hippos enclosed with fence. Other than real animals, there are images and concrete sculptures of birds. Within the zoo contains Nature's Cafe, which offers Chinese and Indian dishes along with non-alcoholic drinks. The zoo is a no-plastic zone, though you can picnic within the zoo premises. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Tirtha | alt=রবীন্দ্র তীর্থ ''Rabīndra Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57905 | long=88.47338 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=noon–7PM | price=₹20 | wikidata=Q7278759 | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A cultural centre dedicated to the poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It houses an exhibition of Tagore’s paintings, archives, a research centre, an auditorium and dormitories for students opting to conduct their research on Tagore. Various arts festivals are arranged here, including performances. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== * {{see | name=Arts Acre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{see | name=Fanattic Sports Museum | alt=FSM | url=http://fanatticsportsmuseum.com/ | email= | address=Ecospace Business Park, Action Area II | lat=22.585346 | long=88.48979 | directions=Ecospace {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM–7PM (closed on M) | price=₹10 | wikidata=Q30595430 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A sports museum dedicated to various types of sports and the first of its kind in West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Museum of Modern Art | alt=KMOMA | url=http://kmomamuseum.org/index.html | email= | address= | lat=22.61273 | long=88.46571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16893599 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A modern art museum. }} * {{see | name=Mother's Wax Museum | alt= | url=http://www.motherswaxmuseum.in/ | email= | address=Synthesis Business Park, MAR, Action Area II | lat=22.5999 | long=88.472 | directions=Prakriti Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2324 7243 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-3:30PM | price=150 | wikidata=Q22079942 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The Mother's Wax Museum consists of nine sections containing 18 to 19 wax models of eminent personalities. It contains models of Maradona, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Manna Dey, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, etc. }} * {{see | name=Naval Aircraft Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=DJ Block, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57704 | long=88.47818 | directions=New Town Police Station {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q108084678 | lastedit=2023-01-10 | content=A military aviation museum built by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) and is exhibiting a Tupolev Tu-142 of Indian Navy. Other exhibits for its interior and surroundings like a mannequin pilot, bombs, machinery etc. will be developed by the Navy. Apart from the aircraft on display, there is a small children's park and a coffee shop. }} ===[http://www.ecoparknewtown.com/ Eco Park]=== [[File:Lush_green_grass_along_the_lake.jpg|thumb|The main lake of Eco Park]] [[File:New Town skyline from Eco Park (25 February 2024).jpg|thumb|Skyline from Eco Park]] MAR, Action Area II (''bus stops: Eco Park, Prakriti Tirtha''), {{phone|+91 33 2706 4010}}. Noon–4:30PM (closed M). ₹20. Eco Park (ইকো পার্ক ''Iko Pārk'') or Prakriti Tirtha (প্রকৃতি তীর্থ ''Prakr̥ti Tīrtha'') is a 480-acre landscaped park surrounding a water body of about {{acre|100-120}}. The green space is so vast and diverse that it cannot be visited in a short trip easily, and many new attractions are coming here at a rapid pace. There are eight gates to access the park. Parking facilities available at Gate 1 and Gate 4. Activities include paddleboats, rowboats, duo cycles, birdwatching, etc. You can also ride in trackless "toy trains" to enjoy the park. The attractions within the park include: * {{see | name=Bengal Village | alt=বাংলার গ্রাম ''Bāṁlār Grām'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60276 | long=88.46632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco park-21-new town smart city-kolkata-India.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=An exhibition containing models depicting the daily life of rural [[Bengal]]. }} * {{see | name=Butterfly Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60806 | long=88.46528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Dome shaped arena for culturing butterfly WLB 0082.jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of a large dome to enclose a plant habitat consisting of different species of flowering annuals and perennials that support a large range of butterflies organised around a circular body of water. }} * {{see | name=Eco Children's Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60854 | long=88.46690 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eco Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59895 | long=88.46607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eiffel Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59422 | long=88.46653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ghum railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60795 | long=88.46708 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Darjeeling Railway (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=A dummy railway station with a toy train of the [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]]. You can get into the train to get a feeling of the Darjeeling Hills. It costs ₹10 per head for photoshoot inside the train. }} * {{see | name=Heliconia Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60688 | long=88.46546 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Herbal Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60215 | long=88.46452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Japanese Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59482 | long=88.46944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mask Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Mask Garden (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=An open-air collection of masks from various parts of the world, especially from various states of India, especially from West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Meadow Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59975 | long=88.47037 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Pakhibitan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60906 | long=88.46363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Promenade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60107 | long=88.46989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco Park Promenade (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The spine of Eco Park is a paved pathway lined with coconut trees. It is designed to enjoy the waterbody. There's a massive Solar Dome and a replica of the Eiffel Tower along the promenade. }} * {{see | name=Rabi Aranya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59646 | long=88.47135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Rose Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60353 | long=88.46899 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Walkway through the rose garden.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A long walking path with varieties of roses at both sides. }} * {{see | name=Sculpture Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60695 | long=88.46630 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Solar Dome | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6023 | long=88.46545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Solar Dome (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-06 | content=A dome-shaped structure that houses a museum about solar energy and its use in daily life. It has a guided tour with humanoid robots. The dome also houses a planetarium, marine aquarium, and an observation deck. It also has information stands on other renewable energies and also global warming, rising sea levels, and climate change. The structure itself generates a lot of solar power for the New Town area. }} * {{see | name=Seven Wonders | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60976 | long=88.46703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pyramid (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of replicas of seven world-famous monuments: the Pyramids of Giza, Christ the Redeemer, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, Petra, Colosseum and Moai Statues. Accessible from Gate 4. }} * {{see | name=Tropical Tree Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60541 | long=88.46798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Rain Forest (25 February 2024) 2.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=Contains a piece of the tropical forest of Bengal. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Aquatica | alt= | url=http://www.aquaticaindia.com/ | email= | address=Kochpukur | lat=22.562065 | long=88.465197 | directions=off Street 299; Thakdari {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 3200 7947, +91 93315 55220 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM daily | price=₹300–1,000 | wikidata=Q4782815 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=This theme water park offers visitors a cool respite from the heat and grime of city life. Aquatica has a number of rides including tremendously exciting ones like the Black Hole, the Wave Pool, Niagara Falls, surf racer, Tornado and the Aqua Dance Floor. Regular parties and fashion shows are hosted here, especially in the winter. Wide varieties of cocktails are available, as well as mocktails for sobers. }} * {{do | name=Eco Park Amphitheatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60828 | long=88.46342 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Amphitheatre eco park kolkata.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Eco Urban Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street 645, Action Area II | lat=22.61887 | long=88.4801 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A large picnic spot based around a lake, similar to Eco Park. Albeit smaller than Eco Park, the area is quieter and can provide a brief escape to the otherwise city life. Cottage rentals are available from ₹1,000. There's a tribal museum with the ticket price of ₹10 only. Red munia birds are common here, and many migrant birds come here around the lake during winter. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58275 | long=88.474056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109546936 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{do | name=Mela Ground | alt=Fairground | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57984 | long=88.46907 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Nazrul Tirtha | alt=নজরুল তীর্থ ''Najrul Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58194 | long=88.44845 | directions=Nazrul Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17118225 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A cultural and educational centre dedicated to the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The cultural centre is functioning partly as a cinema hall and open air theatre for exhibitions and performances. }} * {{do | name=New Town Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.582 | long=88.4585 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Hosts [[Durga Puja]] and trade fairs. }} * {{do | name=Ozone Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57887 | long=88.46796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59388 | long=88.46774 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Axis Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=CF Block, Action Area-IC | lat=22.5802 | long=88.4596 | directions= | phone=+91 33 32006827 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Axis Mall, New Town.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Shopping mall, restaurants, Bioscope multiplex with four screens. Restaurants include Aaheli (4F), Addiction (4F), Café Coffee Day (2F), Calcutta Retro (5F), Mehak-e-Punjab (4F). Keshariya Junction is a rail-themed multi-cuisine restaurant inside a replica of an [[rail travel in India|LHB coach]]. }} * {{buy | name=Biswa Bangla Haat | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা হাট ''Biśba Bāṁlā Hāṭ'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60982 | long=88.46452 | directions=Gate 5 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre II | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area-IID | lat=22.6232 | long=88.4503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=City center 2 newtown.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=There's Inox at third floor. Restaurants include KFC (GF, Block C), McDonald's (GF, Block A), Pizza Hut (GF, Block C), Gamma's World Cuisine (2F), Massekah (2F, Block B), The Orient (GF) and Zion Lounge (GF). }} * {{buy | name=DLF Galleria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.58172 | long=88.46052 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Down Town Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworld City, Action Area-III | lat=22.55951 | long=88.49538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-21 | content= }} * {{buy | name=HomeTown | alt=Central Mall | url=http://www.hometown.in/ | email= | address=BG Block | lat=22.5829 | long=88.4587 | directions= | phone=+91 90 07 862472 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=HomeTown - Mall - Rajarhat 2015-04-11 7085.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Misti Hub | alt=মিষ্টি হাব ''Miṣṭi Hāb'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46812 | directions=next to Gate 3 and Mask Garden | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Sonajhuri Hat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR, Action Area I | lat= | long= | directions=somewhere beneath the Axis Mall Flyover | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F–Su 5–8PM | price=No entry price | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Based on the famous Sonajhuri Hat in [[Santiniketan]]. }} ==Eat and drink== ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1000|₹1000 to ₹3000|Over ₹3000}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Fairfield bby Marriott Kolkata | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6937/index.en.shtml | email= | address=CF 11, Action Area-IC | lat=22.57963 | long=88.46150 | directions= | phone=+91 33-40323334 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pride Plaza Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.pridehotel.com/pride-plaza-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=BG Block, Action Area I | lat=22.581898 | long=88.462685 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40259999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600&ndash;₹6,800 | wikidata=Q111402431 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Swissotel | alt= | url=https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/?intid=bansko0510enexplore-hotel/reviews/explore-hotel/reviews/ | email=kolkata@swissotel.com | address=City Centre, Action Area-IID | lat=22.6223 | long=88.4499 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6626 6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59409 | long=88.46853 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR (South-East), Action Area-II | lat=22.592 | long=88.47439 | directions=opposite Eco Park | phone=+91 33 4037 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402434 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The tallest buildings in New Town. }} ==Connect== The {{km|10.5}} area from Kolkata Airport to Salt Lake Sector V is a free Wi-Fi zone. ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=New Town Police Station | address=New Town Rd, DJ Block, Action Area I | lat=22.57618 | long=88.47864 | phone=+91 33 23246077 }} * {{listing | name=Rajarhat Police Station | address= | lat=22.63171 | long=88.48498 | phone=+91 33 25733289 }} {{outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo||}} pbsi0ttyarbzstqw50h1a9q7jy8zagl 5090723 5090722 2025-07-10T12:10:39Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata 5090723 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|pgname=New Town}} [[File:Biswa Bangla Gate.jpg|thumb|Biswa Bangla Gate]] '''New Town''' (নিউটাউন ''Niuṭaun''), also called '''Rajarhat''' (রাজারহাট ''Rājārhāṭ''), is one of the newest satellite towns of [[Kolkata]] at the extreme east. It is the second IT hub of Kolkata, with the offices of TCS, Infosys, Unitech and other fintech (financial technology) companies. '''Eco Park''', one of the largest urban spaces in India, is the main tourist attraction of this district, attracting people from West Bengal and even beyond. New Town was developed in the late 1990s and is rapidly growing under the leadership of the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). The Indian government declared New Town a "Solar City" and later a "Smart Green City". As one of the newest parts of the bustling metropolis, New Town will take you to an ultra-modern world, compared to the "Old Town" of [[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]]. A planned community, New Town is surrounded by [[Kolkata/East|Bidhannagar]] and the [[Kolkata/Northern Suburbs|Northern Suburbs]] at the west, the East Kolkata Wetlands at the south, and the vast rural areas of [[North 24 Parganas|North]] and [[South 24 Parganas]] at north and east respectively. The town is divided into three action areas: I, II and III. Action Area I (AA I) is the main area of the town, and it has various houses, housing complexes, shopping malls, and parks. The parks include children's parks, seniors' parks (like Swapna Bhor), and also parks themed on famous Bengali films (like Apur Sansar, Sonar Kella). The eastern end of AA I is home to various tech complexes. Action Area II (AA II) is surrounded by several tech complexes, with tech parks like Ecospace, FinTech Hub, Synthesis and Bengal Silicon Valley. It also has housing complexes at the northern end, between Mangaldeep and Owl junctions. Eco Park is in AA II. Action Area III (AA III) is the least-developed area, with a mix of both urban and rural areas. It is home to massive housing complexes like Uniworld City and Shapoorji Pallonji's Sukhobrishti. The eastern end has a handful but notable tech complexes of Infosys and ITC Limited. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.592|88.475|width=400|height=450|name=Map of New Town}} 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===By bus=== * {{marker|type=go|name=New Town Bus Stand|lat=22.58281|long=88.45365}} (AH Block, Action Area I) ===By car=== New Town is served by certain arterial roads to and from the township. '''Major Arterial Road''' ('''MAR''') starts from Salt Lake Sector V, then turns left at Narkelbagan More crossing, turns left again at Akankha More and finally meets at VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani) near Kolkata Airport. The road serves the Action Areas I and II. There are two other roads that begin from Narkelbagan More. The one next to Rabindra Tirtha (not the one next to HIDCO Bhaban) runs across Action Area III, while the one opposite Rabindra Tirtha runs across the southern parts of Action Area I before meeting at a narrower 2-lane road next to East Kolkata Wetlands. ==Get around== New Town has a unique transport infrastructure that is rare in the rest of Kolkata or even West Bengal. ===By electric car=== New Town has some charging stations for electric cars, which are very useful for the electric vehicles in West Bengal as the rest of the state has a lack of charging stations. ===By bicycle=== It has some bike paths along footpaths, and they are usually coloured in green. Bicycles are mainly useful for short trips, and for longer trips you have to opt for a bus or car. ==See== * {{see | name=Biswa Bangla Gate | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা গেট ''Biśba Bāṃlā Geṭ'' | url=https://www.biswabanglagatekolkata.in/ | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.578611 | long=88.471667 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39087520 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=An arch monument in New Town and one of the most iconic structures in Greater Kolkata. "Biswa Bangla" literally means "World Bengal". The structure consists of a single ring supported by two parabolic arches from four sides of the Narkelbagan intersection. The ring houses a restaurant and a visitors' gallery, which are surrounded by glass. There are two staircases and an elevator to reach the gallery. Decorative paintings of luminaries have been drawn on the wall inside the ring with the outer side having a glass façade to have a view of the township. }} * {{see | name=Harinalaya | alt=হরিণালয় ''Hariṇālaẏ'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60833 | long=88.46176 | directions=opposite Eco Park Gates 5 and 6, parking space for four-wheelers at ₹50 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM&mdash;6PM (closed at sunsets in winter) | price=₹50 for people above 5, both cash and UPI accepted | lastedit=2024-12-12 | content=A {{acre|12.5}} mini zoo developed by HIDCO, and despite being named after deers (হরিণ ''hariṇ''), the zoo contains other animals as well. At the entrance, there's an aviary at the left and rides at the right. Rides include slides, mini jungle gyms, and swings. There's a waterbody for two large crocodiles and two hippos enclosed with fence. Other than real animals, there are images and concrete sculptures of birds. Within the zoo contains Nature's Cafe, which offers Chinese and Indian dishes along with non-alcoholic drinks. The zoo is a no-plastic zone, though you can picnic within the zoo premises. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Tirtha | alt=রবীন্দ্র তীর্থ ''Rabīndra Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57905 | long=88.47338 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=noon–7PM | price=₹20 | wikidata=Q7278759 | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A cultural centre dedicated to the poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It houses an exhibition of Tagore’s paintings, archives, a research centre, an auditorium and dormitories for students opting to conduct their research on Tagore. Various arts festivals are arranged here, including performances. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== * {{see | name=Arts Acre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{see | name=Fanattic Sports Museum | alt=FSM | url=http://fanatticsportsmuseum.com/ | email= | address=Ecospace Business Park, Action Area II | lat=22.585346 | long=88.48979 | directions=Ecospace {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM–7PM (closed on M) | price=₹10 | wikidata=Q30595430 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A sports museum dedicated to various types of sports and the first of its kind in West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Museum of Modern Art | alt=KMOMA | url=http://kmomamuseum.org/index.html | email= | address= | lat=22.61273 | long=88.46571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16893599 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A modern art museum. }} * {{see | name=Mother's Wax Museum | alt= | url=http://www.motherswaxmuseum.in/ | email= | address=Synthesis Business Park, MAR, Action Area II | lat=22.5999 | long=88.472 | directions=Prakriti Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2324 7243 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-3:30PM | price=150 | wikidata=Q22079942 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The Mother's Wax Museum consists of nine sections containing 18 to 19 wax models of eminent personalities. It contains models of Maradona, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Manna Dey, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, etc. }} * {{see | name=Naval Aircraft Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=DJ Block, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57704 | long=88.47818 | directions=New Town Police Station {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q108084678 | lastedit=2023-01-10 | content=A military aviation museum built by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) and is exhibiting a Tupolev Tu-142 of Indian Navy. Other exhibits for its interior and surroundings like a mannequin pilot, bombs, machinery etc. will be developed by the Navy. Apart from the aircraft on display, there is a small children's park and a coffee shop. }} ===[http://www.ecoparknewtown.com/ Eco Park]=== [[File:Lush_green_grass_along_the_lake.jpg|thumb|The main lake of Eco Park]] [[File:New Town skyline from Eco Park (25 February 2024).jpg|thumb|Skyline from Eco Park]] MAR, Action Area II (''bus stops: Eco Park, Prakriti Tirtha''), {{phone|+91 33 2706 4010}}. Noon–4:30PM (closed M). ₹20. Eco Park (ইকো পার্ক ''Iko Pārk'') or Prakriti Tirtha (প্রকৃতি তীর্থ ''Prakr̥ti Tīrtha'') is a 480-acre landscaped park surrounding a water body of about {{acre|100-120}}. The green space is so vast and diverse that it cannot be visited in a short trip easily, and many new attractions are coming here at a rapid pace. There are eight gates to access the park. Parking facilities available at Gate 1 and Gate 4. Activities include paddleboats, rowboats, duo cycles, birdwatching, etc. You can also ride in trackless "toy trains" to enjoy the park. The attractions within the park include: * {{see | name=Bengal Village | alt=বাংলার গ্রাম ''Bāṁlār Grām'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60276 | long=88.46632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco park-21-new town smart city-kolkata-India.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=An exhibition containing models depicting the daily life of rural [[Bengal]]. }} * {{see | name=Butterfly Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60806 | long=88.46528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Dome shaped arena for culturing butterfly WLB 0082.jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of a large dome to enclose a plant habitat consisting of different species of flowering annuals and perennials that support a large range of butterflies organised around a circular body of water. }} * {{see | name=Eco Children's Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60854 | long=88.46690 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eco Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59895 | long=88.46607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eiffel Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59422 | long=88.46653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ghum railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60795 | long=88.46708 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Darjeeling Railway (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=A dummy railway station with a toy train of the [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]]. You can get into the train to get a feeling of the Darjeeling Hills. It costs ₹10 per head for photoshoot inside the train. }} * {{see | name=Heliconia Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60688 | long=88.46546 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Herbal Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60215 | long=88.46452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Japanese Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59482 | long=88.46944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mask Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Mask Garden (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=An open-air collection of masks from various parts of the world, especially from various states of India, especially from West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Meadow Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59975 | long=88.47037 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Pakhibitan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60906 | long=88.46363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Promenade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60107 | long=88.46989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco Park Promenade (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The spine of Eco Park is a paved pathway lined with coconut trees. It is designed to enjoy the waterbody. There's a massive Solar Dome and a replica of the Eiffel Tower along the promenade. }} * {{see | name=Rabi Aranya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59646 | long=88.47135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Rose Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60353 | long=88.46899 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Walkway through the rose garden.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A long walking path with varieties of roses at both sides. }} * {{see | name=Sculpture Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60695 | long=88.46630 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Solar Dome | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6023 | long=88.46545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Solar Dome (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-06 | content=A dome-shaped structure that houses a museum about solar energy and its use in daily life. It has a guided tour with humanoid robots. The dome also houses a planetarium, marine aquarium, and an observation deck. It also has information stands on other renewable energies and also global warming, rising sea levels, and climate change. The structure itself generates a lot of solar power for the New Town area. }} * {{see | name=Seven Wonders | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60976 | long=88.46703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pyramid (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of replicas of seven world-famous monuments: the Pyramids of Giza, Christ the Redeemer, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, Petra, Colosseum and Moai Statues. Accessible from Gate 4. }} * {{see | name=Tropical Tree Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60541 | long=88.46798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Rain Forest (25 February 2024) 2.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=Contains a piece of the tropical forest of Bengal. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Aquatica | alt= | url=http://www.aquaticaindia.com/ | email= | address=Kochpukur | lat=22.562065 | long=88.465197 | directions=off Street 299; Thakdari {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 3200 7947, +91 93315 55220 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM daily | price=₹300–1,000 | wikidata=Q4782815 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=This theme water park offers visitors a cool respite from the heat and grime of city life. Aquatica has a number of rides including tremendously exciting ones like the Black Hole, the Wave Pool, Niagara Falls, surf racer, Tornado and the Aqua Dance Floor. Regular parties and fashion shows are hosted here, especially in the winter. Wide varieties of cocktails are available, as well as mocktails for sobers. }} * {{do | name=Eco Park Amphitheatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60828 | long=88.46342 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Amphitheatre eco park kolkata.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Eco Urban Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street 645, Action Area II | lat=22.61887 | long=88.4801 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A large picnic spot based around a lake, similar to Eco Park. Albeit smaller than Eco Park, the area is quieter and can provide a brief escape to the otherwise city life. Cottage rentals are available from ₹1,000. There's a tribal museum with the ticket price of ₹10 only. Red munia birds are common here, and many migrant birds come here around the lake during winter. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58275 | long=88.474056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109546936 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{do | name=Mela Ground | alt=Fairground | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57984 | long=88.46907 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Nazrul Tirtha | alt=নজরুল তীর্থ ''Najrul Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58194 | long=88.44845 | directions=Nazrul Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17118225 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A cultural and educational centre dedicated to the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The cultural centre is functioning partly as a cinema hall and open air theatre for exhibitions and performances. }} * {{do | name=New Town Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.582 | long=88.4585 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Hosts [[Durga Puja]] and trade fairs. }} * {{do | name=Ozone Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57887 | long=88.46796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59388 | long=88.46774 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Axis Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=CF Block, Action Area-IC | lat=22.5802 | long=88.4596 | directions= | phone=+91 33 32006827 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Axis Mall, New Town.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Shopping mall, restaurants, Bioscope multiplex with four screens. Restaurants include Aaheli (4F), Addiction (4F), Café Coffee Day (2F), Calcutta Retro (5F), Mehak-e-Punjab (4F). Keshariya Junction is a rail-themed multi-cuisine restaurant inside a replica of an [[rail travel in India|LHB coach]]. }} * {{buy | name=Biswa Bangla Haat | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা হাট ''Biśba Bāṁlā Hāṭ'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60982 | long=88.46452 | directions=Gate 5 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre II | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area-IID | lat=22.6232 | long=88.4503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=City center 2 newtown.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=There's Inox at third floor. Restaurants include KFC (GF, Block C), McDonald's (GF, Block A), Pizza Hut (GF, Block C), Gamma's World Cuisine (2F), Massekah (2F, Block B), The Orient (GF) and Zion Lounge (GF). }} * {{buy | name=DLF Galleria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.58172 | long=88.46052 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Down Town Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworld City, Action Area-III | lat=22.55951 | long=88.49538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-21 | content= }} * {{buy | name=HomeTown | alt=Central Mall | url=http://www.hometown.in/ | email= | address=BG Block | lat=22.5829 | long=88.4587 | directions= | phone=+91 90 07 862472 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=HomeTown - Mall - Rajarhat 2015-04-11 7085.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Misti Hub | alt=মিষ্টি হাব ''Miṣṭi Hāb'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46812 | directions=next to Gate 3 and Mask Garden | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Sonajhuri Hat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR, Action Area I | lat= | long= | directions=somewhere beneath the Axis Mall Flyover | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F–Su 5–8PM | price=No entry price | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Based on the famous Sonajhuri Hat in [[Santiniketan]]. }} ==Eat and drink== ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1000|₹1000 to ₹3000|Over ₹3000}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57905 | long=88.468475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹7,840 | wikidata=Q111861633 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6937/index.en.shtml | email= | address=CF 11, Action Area-IC | lat=22.57963 | long=88.46150 | directions= | phone=+91 33-40323334 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-06-29 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pride Plaza Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.pridehotel.com/pride-plaza-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=BG Block, Action Area I | lat=22.581898 | long=88.462685 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40259999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600&ndash;₹6,800 | wikidata=Q111402431 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Swissotel | alt= | url=https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/?intid=bansko0510enexplore-hotel/reviews/explore-hotel/reviews/ | email=kolkata@swissotel.com | address=City Centre, Action Area-IID | lat=22.6223 | long=88.4499 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6626 6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59409 | long=88.46853 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR (South-East), Action Area-II | lat=22.592 | long=88.47439 | directions=opposite Eco Park | phone=+91 33 4037 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402434 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The tallest buildings in New Town. }} ==Connect== The {{km|10.5}} area from Kolkata Airport to Salt Lake Sector V is a free Wi-Fi zone. ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=New Town Police Station | address=New Town Rd, DJ Block, Action Area I | lat=22.57618 | long=88.47864 | phone=+91 33 23246077 }} * {{listing | name=Rajarhat Police Station | address= | lat=22.63171 | long=88.48498 | phone=+91 33 25733289 }} {{outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo||}} 0heph3jhvcrlz8o2v9xkjo6wvniovmh 5090724 5090723 2025-07-10T12:11:11Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences 5090724 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|pgname=New Town}} [[File:Biswa Bangla Gate.jpg|thumb|Biswa Bangla Gate]] '''New Town''' (নিউটাউন ''Niuṭaun''), also called '''Rajarhat''' (রাজারহাট ''Rājārhāṭ''), is one of the newest satellite towns of [[Kolkata]] at the extreme east. It is the second IT hub of Kolkata, with the offices of TCS, Infosys, Unitech and other fintech (financial technology) companies. '''Eco Park''', one of the largest urban spaces in India, is the main tourist attraction of this district, attracting people from West Bengal and even beyond. New Town was developed in the late 1990s and is rapidly growing under the leadership of the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). The Indian government declared New Town a "Solar City" and later a "Smart Green City". As one of the newest parts of the bustling metropolis, New Town will take you to an ultra-modern world, compared to the "Old Town" of [[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]]. A planned community, New Town is surrounded by [[Kolkata/East|Bidhannagar]] and the [[Kolkata/Northern Suburbs|Northern Suburbs]] at the west, the East Kolkata Wetlands at the south, and the vast rural areas of [[North 24 Parganas|North]] and [[South 24 Parganas]] at north and east respectively. The town is divided into three action areas: I, II and III. Action Area I (AA I) is the main area of the town, and it has various houses, housing complexes, shopping malls, and parks. The parks include children's parks, seniors' parks (like Swapna Bhor), and also parks themed on famous Bengali films (like Apur Sansar, Sonar Kella). The eastern end of AA I is home to various tech complexes. Action Area II (AA II) is surrounded by several tech complexes, with tech parks like Ecospace, FinTech Hub, Synthesis and Bengal Silicon Valley. It also has housing complexes at the northern end, between Mangaldeep and Owl junctions. Eco Park is in AA II. Action Area III (AA III) is the least-developed area, with a mix of both urban and rural areas. It is home to massive housing complexes like Uniworld City and Shapoorji Pallonji's Sukhobrishti. The eastern end has a handful but notable tech complexes of Infosys and ITC Limited. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.592|88.475|width=400|height=450|name=Map of New Town}} 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===By bus=== * {{marker|type=go|name=New Town Bus Stand|lat=22.58281|long=88.45365}} (AH Block, Action Area I) ===By car=== New Town is served by certain arterial roads to and from the township. '''Major Arterial Road''' ('''MAR''') starts from Salt Lake Sector V, then turns left at Narkelbagan More crossing, turns left again at Akankha More and finally meets at VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani) near Kolkata Airport. The road serves the Action Areas I and II. There are two other roads that begin from Narkelbagan More. The one next to Rabindra Tirtha (not the one next to HIDCO Bhaban) runs across Action Area III, while the one opposite Rabindra Tirtha runs across the southern parts of Action Area I before meeting at a narrower 2-lane road next to East Kolkata Wetlands. ==Get around== New Town has a unique transport infrastructure that is rare in the rest of Kolkata or even West Bengal. ===By electric car=== New Town has some charging stations for electric cars, which are very useful for the electric vehicles in West Bengal as the rest of the state has a lack of charging stations. ===By bicycle=== It has some bike paths along footpaths, and they are usually coloured in green. Bicycles are mainly useful for short trips, and for longer trips you have to opt for a bus or car. ==See== * {{see | name=Biswa Bangla Gate | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা গেট ''Biśba Bāṃlā Geṭ'' | url=https://www.biswabanglagatekolkata.in/ | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.578611 | long=88.471667 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39087520 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=An arch monument in New Town and one of the most iconic structures in Greater Kolkata. "Biswa Bangla" literally means "World Bengal". The structure consists of a single ring supported by two parabolic arches from four sides of the Narkelbagan intersection. The ring houses a restaurant and a visitors' gallery, which are surrounded by glass. There are two staircases and an elevator to reach the gallery. Decorative paintings of luminaries have been drawn on the wall inside the ring with the outer side having a glass façade to have a view of the township. }} * {{see | name=Harinalaya | alt=হরিণালয় ''Hariṇālaẏ'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60833 | long=88.46176 | directions=opposite Eco Park Gates 5 and 6, parking space for four-wheelers at ₹50 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM&mdash;6PM (closed at sunsets in winter) | price=₹50 for people above 5, both cash and UPI accepted | lastedit=2024-12-12 | content=A {{acre|12.5}} mini zoo developed by HIDCO, and despite being named after deers (হরিণ ''hariṇ''), the zoo contains other animals as well. At the entrance, there's an aviary at the left and rides at the right. Rides include slides, mini jungle gyms, and swings. There's a waterbody for two large crocodiles and two hippos enclosed with fence. Other than real animals, there are images and concrete sculptures of birds. Within the zoo contains Nature's Cafe, which offers Chinese and Indian dishes along with non-alcoholic drinks. The zoo is a no-plastic zone, though you can picnic within the zoo premises. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Tirtha | alt=রবীন্দ্র তীর্থ ''Rabīndra Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57905 | long=88.47338 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=noon–7PM | price=₹20 | wikidata=Q7278759 | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A cultural centre dedicated to the poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It houses an exhibition of Tagore’s paintings, archives, a research centre, an auditorium and dormitories for students opting to conduct their research on Tagore. Various arts festivals are arranged here, including performances. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== * {{see | name=Arts Acre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{see | name=Fanattic Sports Museum | alt=FSM | url=http://fanatticsportsmuseum.com/ | email= | address=Ecospace Business Park, Action Area II | lat=22.585346 | long=88.48979 | directions=Ecospace {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM–7PM (closed on M) | price=₹10 | wikidata=Q30595430 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A sports museum dedicated to various types of sports and the first of its kind in West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Museum of Modern Art | alt=KMOMA | url=http://kmomamuseum.org/index.html | email= | address= | lat=22.61273 | long=88.46571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16893599 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A modern art museum. }} * {{see | name=Mother's Wax Museum | alt= | url=http://www.motherswaxmuseum.in/ | email= | address=Synthesis Business Park, MAR, Action Area II | lat=22.5999 | long=88.472 | directions=Prakriti Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2324 7243 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-3:30PM | price=150 | wikidata=Q22079942 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The Mother's Wax Museum consists of nine sections containing 18 to 19 wax models of eminent personalities. It contains models of Maradona, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Manna Dey, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, etc. }} * {{see | name=Naval Aircraft Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=DJ Block, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57704 | long=88.47818 | directions=New Town Police Station {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q108084678 | lastedit=2023-01-10 | content=A military aviation museum built by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) and is exhibiting a Tupolev Tu-142 of Indian Navy. Other exhibits for its interior and surroundings like a mannequin pilot, bombs, machinery etc. will be developed by the Navy. Apart from the aircraft on display, there is a small children's park and a coffee shop. }} ===[http://www.ecoparknewtown.com/ Eco Park]=== [[File:Lush_green_grass_along_the_lake.jpg|thumb|The main lake of Eco Park]] [[File:New Town skyline from Eco Park (25 February 2024).jpg|thumb|Skyline from Eco Park]] MAR, Action Area II (''bus stops: Eco Park, Prakriti Tirtha''), {{phone|+91 33 2706 4010}}. Noon–4:30PM (closed M). ₹20. Eco Park (ইকো পার্ক ''Iko Pārk'') or Prakriti Tirtha (প্রকৃতি তীর্থ ''Prakr̥ti Tīrtha'') is a 480-acre landscaped park surrounding a water body of about {{acre|100-120}}. The green space is so vast and diverse that it cannot be visited in a short trip easily, and many new attractions are coming here at a rapid pace. There are eight gates to access the park. Parking facilities available at Gate 1 and Gate 4. Activities include paddleboats, rowboats, duo cycles, birdwatching, etc. You can also ride in trackless "toy trains" to enjoy the park. The attractions within the park include: * {{see | name=Bengal Village | alt=বাংলার গ্রাম ''Bāṁlār Grām'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60276 | long=88.46632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco park-21-new town smart city-kolkata-India.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=An exhibition containing models depicting the daily life of rural [[Bengal]]. }} * {{see | name=Butterfly Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60806 | long=88.46528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Dome shaped arena for culturing butterfly WLB 0082.jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of a large dome to enclose a plant habitat consisting of different species of flowering annuals and perennials that support a large range of butterflies organised around a circular body of water. }} * {{see | name=Eco Children's Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60854 | long=88.46690 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eco Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59895 | long=88.46607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eiffel Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59422 | long=88.46653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ghum railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60795 | long=88.46708 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Darjeeling Railway (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=A dummy railway station with a toy train of the [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]]. You can get into the train to get a feeling of the Darjeeling Hills. It costs ₹10 per head for photoshoot inside the train. }} * {{see | name=Heliconia Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60688 | long=88.46546 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Herbal Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60215 | long=88.46452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Japanese Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59482 | long=88.46944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mask Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Mask Garden (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=An open-air collection of masks from various parts of the world, especially from various states of India, especially from West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Meadow Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59975 | long=88.47037 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Pakhibitan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60906 | long=88.46363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Promenade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60107 | long=88.46989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco Park Promenade (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The spine of Eco Park is a paved pathway lined with coconut trees. It is designed to enjoy the waterbody. There's a massive Solar Dome and a replica of the Eiffel Tower along the promenade. }} * {{see | name=Rabi Aranya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59646 | long=88.47135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Rose Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60353 | long=88.46899 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Walkway through the rose garden.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A long walking path with varieties of roses at both sides. }} * {{see | name=Sculpture Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60695 | long=88.46630 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Solar Dome | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6023 | long=88.46545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Solar Dome (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-06 | content=A dome-shaped structure that houses a museum about solar energy and its use in daily life. It has a guided tour with humanoid robots. The dome also houses a planetarium, marine aquarium, and an observation deck. It also has information stands on other renewable energies and also global warming, rising sea levels, and climate change. The structure itself generates a lot of solar power for the New Town area. }} * {{see | name=Seven Wonders | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60976 | long=88.46703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pyramid (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of replicas of seven world-famous monuments: the Pyramids of Giza, Christ the Redeemer, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, Petra, Colosseum and Moai Statues. Accessible from Gate 4. }} * {{see | name=Tropical Tree Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60541 | long=88.46798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Rain Forest (25 February 2024) 2.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=Contains a piece of the tropical forest of Bengal. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Aquatica | alt= | url=http://www.aquaticaindia.com/ | email= | address=Kochpukur | lat=22.562065 | long=88.465197 | directions=off Street 299; Thakdari {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 3200 7947, +91 93315 55220 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM daily | price=₹300–1,000 | wikidata=Q4782815 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=This theme water park offers visitors a cool respite from the heat and grime of city life. Aquatica has a number of rides including tremendously exciting ones like the Black Hole, the Wave Pool, Niagara Falls, surf racer, Tornado and the Aqua Dance Floor. Regular parties and fashion shows are hosted here, especially in the winter. Wide varieties of cocktails are available, as well as mocktails for sobers. }} * {{do | name=Eco Park Amphitheatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60828 | long=88.46342 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Amphitheatre eco park kolkata.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Eco Urban Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street 645, Action Area II | lat=22.61887 | long=88.4801 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A large picnic spot based around a lake, similar to Eco Park. Albeit smaller than Eco Park, the area is quieter and can provide a brief escape to the otherwise city life. Cottage rentals are available from ₹1,000. There's a tribal museum with the ticket price of ₹10 only. Red munia birds are common here, and many migrant birds come here around the lake during winter. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58275 | long=88.474056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109546936 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{do | name=Mela Ground | alt=Fairground | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57984 | long=88.46907 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Nazrul Tirtha | alt=নজরুল তীর্থ ''Najrul Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58194 | long=88.44845 | directions=Nazrul Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17118225 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A cultural and educational centre dedicated to the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The cultural centre is functioning partly as a cinema hall and open air theatre for exhibitions and performances. }} * {{do | name=New Town Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.582 | long=88.4585 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Hosts [[Durga Puja]] and trade fairs. }} * {{do | name=Ozone Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57887 | long=88.46796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59388 | long=88.46774 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Axis Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=CF Block, Action Area-IC | lat=22.5802 | long=88.4596 | directions= | phone=+91 33 32006827 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Axis Mall, New Town.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Shopping mall, restaurants, Bioscope multiplex with four screens. Restaurants include Aaheli (4F), Addiction (4F), Café Coffee Day (2F), Calcutta Retro (5F), Mehak-e-Punjab (4F). Keshariya Junction is a rail-themed multi-cuisine restaurant inside a replica of an [[rail travel in India|LHB coach]]. }} * {{buy | name=Biswa Bangla Haat | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা হাট ''Biśba Bāṁlā Hāṭ'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60982 | long=88.46452 | directions=Gate 5 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre II | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area-IID | lat=22.6232 | long=88.4503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=City center 2 newtown.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=There's Inox at third floor. Restaurants include KFC (GF, Block C), McDonald's (GF, Block A), Pizza Hut (GF, Block C), Gamma's World Cuisine (2F), Massekah (2F, Block B), The Orient (GF) and Zion Lounge (GF). }} * {{buy | name=DLF Galleria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.58172 | long=88.46052 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Down Town Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworld City, Action Area-III | lat=22.55951 | long=88.49538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-21 | content= }} * {{buy | name=HomeTown | alt=Central Mall | url=http://www.hometown.in/ | email= | address=BG Block | lat=22.5829 | long=88.4587 | directions= | phone=+91 90 07 862472 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=HomeTown - Mall - Rajarhat 2015-04-11 7085.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Misti Hub | alt=মিষ্টি হাব ''Miṣṭi Hāb'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46812 | directions=next to Gate 3 and Mask Garden | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Sonajhuri Hat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR, Action Area I | lat= | long= | directions=somewhere beneath the Axis Mall Flyover | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F–Su 5–8PM | price=No entry price | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Based on the famous Sonajhuri Hat in [[Santiniketan]]. }} ==Eat and drink== ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1000|₹1000 to ₹3000|Over ₹3000}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57905 | long=88.468475 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹7,840 | wikidata=Q111861633 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6937/index.en.shtml | email= | address=CF 11, Action Area-IC | lat=22.57963 | long=88.4614 | directions= | phone=+91 33-40323334 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402430 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pride Plaza Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.pridehotel.com/pride-plaza-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=BG Block, Action Area I | lat=22.581898 | long=88.462685 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40259999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600&ndash;₹6,800 | wikidata=Q111402431 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Swissotel | alt= | url=https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/?intid=bansko0510enexplore-hotel/reviews/explore-hotel/reviews/ | email=kolkata@swissotel.com | address=City Centre, Action Area-IID | lat=22.6223 | long=88.4499 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6626 6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59409 | long=88.46853 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR (South-East), Action Area-II | lat=22.592 | long=88.47439 | directions=opposite Eco Park | phone=+91 33 4037 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402434 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The tallest buildings in New Town. }} ==Connect== The {{km|10.5}} area from Kolkata Airport to Salt Lake Sector V is a free Wi-Fi zone. ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=New Town Police Station | address=New Town Rd, DJ Block, Action Area I | lat=22.57618 | long=88.47864 | phone=+91 33 23246077 }} * {{listing | name=Rajarhat Police Station | address= | lat=22.63171 | long=88.48498 | phone=+91 33 25733289 }} {{outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo||}} 0wx290csgxzxl6fz2tr0f5cjbmb7946 5090725 5090724 2025-07-10T12:12:19Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata 5090725 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|pgname=New Town}} [[File:Biswa Bangla Gate.jpg|thumb|Biswa Bangla Gate]] '''New Town''' (নিউটাউন ''Niuṭaun''), also called '''Rajarhat''' (রাজারহাট ''Rājārhāṭ''), is one of the newest satellite towns of [[Kolkata]] at the extreme east. It is the second IT hub of Kolkata, with the offices of TCS, Infosys, Unitech and other fintech (financial technology) companies. '''Eco Park''', one of the largest urban spaces in India, is the main tourist attraction of this district, attracting people from West Bengal and even beyond. New Town was developed in the late 1990s and is rapidly growing under the leadership of the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). The Indian government declared New Town a "Solar City" and later a "Smart Green City". As one of the newest parts of the bustling metropolis, New Town will take you to an ultra-modern world, compared to the "Old Town" of [[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]]. A planned community, New Town is surrounded by [[Kolkata/East|Bidhannagar]] and the [[Kolkata/Northern Suburbs|Northern Suburbs]] at the west, the East Kolkata Wetlands at the south, and the vast rural areas of [[North 24 Parganas|North]] and [[South 24 Parganas]] at north and east respectively. The town is divided into three action areas: I, II and III. Action Area I (AA I) is the main area of the town, and it has various houses, housing complexes, shopping malls, and parks. The parks include children's parks, seniors' parks (like Swapna Bhor), and also parks themed on famous Bengali films (like Apur Sansar, Sonar Kella). The eastern end of AA I is home to various tech complexes. Action Area II (AA II) is surrounded by several tech complexes, with tech parks like Ecospace, FinTech Hub, Synthesis and Bengal Silicon Valley. It also has housing complexes at the northern end, between Mangaldeep and Owl junctions. Eco Park is in AA II. Action Area III (AA III) is the least-developed area, with a mix of both urban and rural areas. It is home to massive housing complexes like Uniworld City and Shapoorji Pallonji's Sukhobrishti. The eastern end has a handful but notable tech complexes of Infosys and ITC Limited. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.592|88.475|width=400|height=450|name=Map of New Town}} 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===By bus=== * {{marker|type=go|name=New Town Bus Stand|lat=22.58281|long=88.45365}} (AH Block, Action Area I) ===By car=== New Town is served by certain arterial roads to and from the township. '''Major Arterial Road''' ('''MAR''') starts from Salt Lake Sector V, then turns left at Narkelbagan More crossing, turns left again at Akankha More and finally meets at VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani) near Kolkata Airport. The road serves the Action Areas I and II. There are two other roads that begin from Narkelbagan More. The one next to Rabindra Tirtha (not the one next to HIDCO Bhaban) runs across Action Area III, while the one opposite Rabindra Tirtha runs across the southern parts of Action Area I before meeting at a narrower 2-lane road next to East Kolkata Wetlands. ==Get around== New Town has a unique transport infrastructure that is rare in the rest of Kolkata or even West Bengal. ===By electric car=== New Town has some charging stations for electric cars, which are very useful for the electric vehicles in West Bengal as the rest of the state has a lack of charging stations. ===By bicycle=== It has some bike paths along footpaths, and they are usually coloured in green. Bicycles are mainly useful for short trips, and for longer trips you have to opt for a bus or car. ==See== * {{see | name=Biswa Bangla Gate | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা গেট ''Biśba Bāṃlā Geṭ'' | url=https://www.biswabanglagatekolkata.in/ | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.578611 | long=88.471667 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39087520 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=An arch monument in New Town and one of the most iconic structures in Greater Kolkata. "Biswa Bangla" literally means "World Bengal". The structure consists of a single ring supported by two parabolic arches from four sides of the Narkelbagan intersection. The ring houses a restaurant and a visitors' gallery, which are surrounded by glass. There are two staircases and an elevator to reach the gallery. Decorative paintings of luminaries have been drawn on the wall inside the ring with the outer side having a glass façade to have a view of the township. }} * {{see | name=Harinalaya | alt=হরিণালয় ''Hariṇālaẏ'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60833 | long=88.46176 | directions=opposite Eco Park Gates 5 and 6, parking space for four-wheelers at ₹50 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM&mdash;6PM (closed at sunsets in winter) | price=₹50 for people above 5, both cash and UPI accepted | lastedit=2024-12-12 | content=A {{acre|12.5}} mini zoo developed by HIDCO, and despite being named after deers (হরিণ ''hariṇ''), the zoo contains other animals as well. At the entrance, there's an aviary at the left and rides at the right. Rides include slides, mini jungle gyms, and swings. There's a waterbody for two large crocodiles and two hippos enclosed with fence. Other than real animals, there are images and concrete sculptures of birds. Within the zoo contains Nature's Cafe, which offers Chinese and Indian dishes along with non-alcoholic drinks. The zoo is a no-plastic zone, though you can picnic within the zoo premises. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Tirtha | alt=রবীন্দ্র তীর্থ ''Rabīndra Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57905 | long=88.47338 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=noon–7PM | price=₹20 | wikidata=Q7278759 | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A cultural centre dedicated to the poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It houses an exhibition of Tagore’s paintings, archives, a research centre, an auditorium and dormitories for students opting to conduct their research on Tagore. Various arts festivals are arranged here, including performances. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== * {{see | name=Arts Acre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{see | name=Fanattic Sports Museum | alt=FSM | url=http://fanatticsportsmuseum.com/ | email= | address=Ecospace Business Park, Action Area II | lat=22.585346 | long=88.48979 | directions=Ecospace {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM–7PM (closed on M) | price=₹10 | wikidata=Q30595430 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A sports museum dedicated to various types of sports and the first of its kind in West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Museum of Modern Art | alt=KMOMA | url=http://kmomamuseum.org/index.html | email= | address= | lat=22.61273 | long=88.46571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16893599 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A modern art museum. }} * {{see | name=Mother's Wax Museum | alt= | url=http://www.motherswaxmuseum.in/ | email= | address=Synthesis Business Park, MAR, Action Area II | lat=22.5999 | long=88.472 | directions=Prakriti Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2324 7243 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-3:30PM | price=150 | wikidata=Q22079942 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The Mother's Wax Museum consists of nine sections containing 18 to 19 wax models of eminent personalities. It contains models of Maradona, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Manna Dey, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, etc. }} * {{see | name=Naval Aircraft Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=DJ Block, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57704 | long=88.47818 | directions=New Town Police Station {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q108084678 | lastedit=2023-01-10 | content=A military aviation museum built by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) and is exhibiting a Tupolev Tu-142 of Indian Navy. Other exhibits for its interior and surroundings like a mannequin pilot, bombs, machinery etc. will be developed by the Navy. Apart from the aircraft on display, there is a small children's park and a coffee shop. }} ===[http://www.ecoparknewtown.com/ Eco Park]=== [[File:Lush_green_grass_along_the_lake.jpg|thumb|The main lake of Eco Park]] [[File:New Town skyline from Eco Park (25 February 2024).jpg|thumb|Skyline from Eco Park]] MAR, Action Area II (''bus stops: Eco Park, Prakriti Tirtha''), {{phone|+91 33 2706 4010}}. Noon–4:30PM (closed M). ₹20. Eco Park (ইকো পার্ক ''Iko Pārk'') or Prakriti Tirtha (প্রকৃতি তীর্থ ''Prakr̥ti Tīrtha'') is a 480-acre landscaped park surrounding a water body of about {{acre|100-120}}. The green space is so vast and diverse that it cannot be visited in a short trip easily, and many new attractions are coming here at a rapid pace. There are eight gates to access the park. Parking facilities available at Gate 1 and Gate 4. Activities include paddleboats, rowboats, duo cycles, birdwatching, etc. You can also ride in trackless "toy trains" to enjoy the park. The attractions within the park include: * {{see | name=Bengal Village | alt=বাংলার গ্রাম ''Bāṁlār Grām'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60276 | long=88.46632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco park-21-new town smart city-kolkata-India.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=An exhibition containing models depicting the daily life of rural [[Bengal]]. }} * {{see | name=Butterfly Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60806 | long=88.46528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Dome shaped arena for culturing butterfly WLB 0082.jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of a large dome to enclose a plant habitat consisting of different species of flowering annuals and perennials that support a large range of butterflies organised around a circular body of water. }} * {{see | name=Eco Children's Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60854 | long=88.46690 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eco Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59895 | long=88.46607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eiffel Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59422 | long=88.46653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ghum railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60795 | long=88.46708 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Darjeeling Railway (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=A dummy railway station with a toy train of the [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]]. You can get into the train to get a feeling of the Darjeeling Hills. It costs ₹10 per head for photoshoot inside the train. }} * {{see | name=Heliconia Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60688 | long=88.46546 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Herbal Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60215 | long=88.46452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Japanese Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59482 | long=88.46944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mask Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Mask Garden (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=An open-air collection of masks from various parts of the world, especially from various states of India, especially from West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Meadow Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59975 | long=88.47037 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Pakhibitan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60906 | long=88.46363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Promenade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60107 | long=88.46989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco Park Promenade (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The spine of Eco Park is a paved pathway lined with coconut trees. It is designed to enjoy the waterbody. There's a massive Solar Dome and a replica of the Eiffel Tower along the promenade. }} * {{see | name=Rabi Aranya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59646 | long=88.47135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Rose Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60353 | long=88.46899 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Walkway through the rose garden.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A long walking path with varieties of roses at both sides. }} * {{see | name=Sculpture Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60695 | long=88.46630 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Solar Dome | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6023 | long=88.46545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Solar Dome (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-06 | content=A dome-shaped structure that houses a museum about solar energy and its use in daily life. It has a guided tour with humanoid robots. The dome also houses a planetarium, marine aquarium, and an observation deck. It also has information stands on other renewable energies and also global warming, rising sea levels, and climate change. The structure itself generates a lot of solar power for the New Town area. }} * {{see | name=Seven Wonders | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60976 | long=88.46703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pyramid (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of replicas of seven world-famous monuments: the Pyramids of Giza, Christ the Redeemer, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, Petra, Colosseum and Moai Statues. Accessible from Gate 4. }} * {{see | name=Tropical Tree Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60541 | long=88.46798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Rain Forest (25 February 2024) 2.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=Contains a piece of the tropical forest of Bengal. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Aquatica | alt= | url=http://www.aquaticaindia.com/ | email= | address=Kochpukur | lat=22.562065 | long=88.465197 | directions=off Street 299; Thakdari {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 3200 7947, +91 93315 55220 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM daily | price=₹300–1,000 | wikidata=Q4782815 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=This theme water park offers visitors a cool respite from the heat and grime of city life. Aquatica has a number of rides including tremendously exciting ones like the Black Hole, the Wave Pool, Niagara Falls, surf racer, Tornado and the Aqua Dance Floor. Regular parties and fashion shows are hosted here, especially in the winter. Wide varieties of cocktails are available, as well as mocktails for sobers. }} * {{do | name=Eco Park Amphitheatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60828 | long=88.46342 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Amphitheatre eco park kolkata.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Eco Urban Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street 645, Action Area II | lat=22.61887 | long=88.4801 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A large picnic spot based around a lake, similar to Eco Park. Albeit smaller than Eco Park, the area is quieter and can provide a brief escape to the otherwise city life. Cottage rentals are available from ₹1,000. There's a tribal museum with the ticket price of ₹10 only. Red munia birds are common here, and many migrant birds come here around the lake during winter. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58275 | long=88.474056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109546936 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{do | name=Mela Ground | alt=Fairground | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57984 | long=88.46907 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Nazrul Tirtha | alt=নজরুল তীর্থ ''Najrul Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58194 | long=88.44845 | directions=Nazrul Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17118225 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A cultural and educational centre dedicated to the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The cultural centre is functioning partly as a cinema hall and open air theatre for exhibitions and performances. }} * {{do | name=New Town Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.582 | long=88.4585 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Hosts [[Durga Puja]] and trade fairs. }} * {{do | name=Ozone Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57887 | long=88.46796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59388 | long=88.46774 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Axis Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=CF Block, Action Area-IC | lat=22.5802 | long=88.4596 | directions= | phone=+91 33 32006827 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Axis Mall, New Town.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Shopping mall, restaurants, Bioscope multiplex with four screens. Restaurants include Aaheli (4F), Addiction (4F), Café Coffee Day (2F), Calcutta Retro (5F), Mehak-e-Punjab (4F). Keshariya Junction is a rail-themed multi-cuisine restaurant inside a replica of an [[rail travel in India|LHB coach]]. }} * {{buy | name=Biswa Bangla Haat | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা হাট ''Biśba Bāṁlā Hāṭ'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60982 | long=88.46452 | directions=Gate 5 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre II | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area-IID | lat=22.6232 | long=88.4503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=City center 2 newtown.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=There's Inox at third floor. Restaurants include KFC (GF, Block C), McDonald's (GF, Block A), Pizza Hut (GF, Block C), Gamma's World Cuisine (2F), Massekah (2F, Block B), The Orient (GF) and Zion Lounge (GF). }} * {{buy | name=DLF Galleria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.58172 | long=88.46052 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Down Town Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworld City, Action Area-III | lat=22.55951 | long=88.49538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-21 | content= }} * {{buy | name=HomeTown | alt=Central Mall | url=http://www.hometown.in/ | email= | address=BG Block | lat=22.5829 | long=88.4587 | directions= | phone=+91 90 07 862472 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=HomeTown - Mall - Rajarhat 2015-04-11 7085.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Misti Hub | alt=মিষ্টি হাব ''Miṣṭi Hāb'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46812 | directions=next to Gate 3 and Mask Garden | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Sonajhuri Hat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR, Action Area I | lat= | long= | directions=somewhere beneath the Axis Mall Flyover | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F–Su 5–8PM | price=No entry price | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Based on the famous Sonajhuri Hat in [[Santiniketan]]. }} ==Eat and drink== ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1000|₹1000 to ₹3000|Over ₹3000}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ccufi-fairfield-kolkata/overview | email= | address=CB Block, Action Area IC | lat=22.57905 | long=88.468475 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 4444 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,840 | wikidata=Q111861633 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6937/index.en.shtml | email= | address=CF 11, Action Area-IC | lat=22.57963 | long=88.4614 | directions= | phone=+91 33-40323334 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402430 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pride Plaza Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.pridehotel.com/pride-plaza-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=BG Block, Action Area I | lat=22.581898 | long=88.462685 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40259999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600&ndash;₹6,800 | wikidata=Q111402431 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Swissotel | alt= | url=https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/?intid=bansko0510enexplore-hotel/reviews/explore-hotel/reviews/ | email=kolkata@swissotel.com | address=City Centre, Action Area-IID | lat=22.6223 | long=88.4499 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6626 6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59409 | long=88.46853 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR (South-East), Action Area-II | lat=22.592 | long=88.47439 | directions=opposite Eco Park | phone=+91 33 4037 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402434 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The tallest buildings in New Town. }} ==Connect== The {{km|10.5}} area from Kolkata Airport to Salt Lake Sector V is a free Wi-Fi zone. ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=New Town Police Station | address=New Town Rd, DJ Block, Action Area I | lat=22.57618 | long=88.47864 | phone=+91 33 23246077 }} * {{listing | name=Rajarhat Police Station | address= | lat=22.63171 | long=88.48498 | phone=+91 33 25733289 }} {{outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo||}} 4pvdis3b5e08j6ie6hledwsvh948qoh 5090728 5090725 2025-07-10T12:14:20Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences 5090728 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|pgname=New Town}} [[File:Biswa Bangla Gate.jpg|thumb|Biswa Bangla Gate]] '''New Town''' (নিউটাউন ''Niuṭaun''), also called '''Rajarhat''' (রাজারহাট ''Rājārhāṭ''), is one of the newest satellite towns of [[Kolkata]] at the extreme east. It is the second IT hub of Kolkata, with the offices of TCS, Infosys, Unitech and other fintech (financial technology) companies. '''Eco Park''', one of the largest urban spaces in India, is the main tourist attraction of this district, attracting people from West Bengal and even beyond. New Town was developed in the late 1990s and is rapidly growing under the leadership of the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). The Indian government declared New Town a "Solar City" and later a "Smart Green City". As one of the newest parts of the bustling metropolis, New Town will take you to an ultra-modern world, compared to the "Old Town" of [[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]]. A planned community, New Town is surrounded by [[Kolkata/East|Bidhannagar]] and the [[Kolkata/Northern Suburbs|Northern Suburbs]] at the west, the East Kolkata Wetlands at the south, and the vast rural areas of [[North 24 Parganas|North]] and [[South 24 Parganas]] at north and east respectively. The town is divided into three action areas: I, II and III. Action Area I (AA I) is the main area of the town, and it has various houses, housing complexes, shopping malls, and parks. The parks include children's parks, seniors' parks (like Swapna Bhor), and also parks themed on famous Bengali films (like Apur Sansar, Sonar Kella). The eastern end of AA I is home to various tech complexes. Action Area II (AA II) is surrounded by several tech complexes, with tech parks like Ecospace, FinTech Hub, Synthesis and Bengal Silicon Valley. It also has housing complexes at the northern end, between Mangaldeep and Owl junctions. Eco Park is in AA II. Action Area III (AA III) is the least-developed area, with a mix of both urban and rural areas. It is home to massive housing complexes like Uniworld City and Shapoorji Pallonji's Sukhobrishti. The eastern end has a handful but notable tech complexes of Infosys and ITC Limited. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.592|88.475|width=400|height=450|name=Map of New Town}} 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===By bus=== * {{marker|type=go|name=New Town Bus Stand|lat=22.58281|long=88.45365}} (AH Block, Action Area I) ===By car=== New Town is served by certain arterial roads to and from the township. '''Major Arterial Road''' ('''MAR''') starts from Salt Lake Sector V, then turns left at Narkelbagan More crossing, turns left again at Akankha More and finally meets at VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani) near Kolkata Airport. The road serves the Action Areas I and II. There are two other roads that begin from Narkelbagan More. The one next to Rabindra Tirtha (not the one next to HIDCO Bhaban) runs across Action Area III, while the one opposite Rabindra Tirtha runs across the southern parts of Action Area I before meeting at a narrower 2-lane road next to East Kolkata Wetlands. ==Get around== New Town has a unique transport infrastructure that is rare in the rest of Kolkata or even West Bengal. ===By electric car=== New Town has some charging stations for electric cars, which are very useful for the electric vehicles in West Bengal as the rest of the state has a lack of charging stations. ===By bicycle=== It has some bike paths along footpaths, and they are usually coloured in green. Bicycles are mainly useful for short trips, and for longer trips you have to opt for a bus or car. ==See== * {{see | name=Biswa Bangla Gate | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা গেট ''Biśba Bāṃlā Geṭ'' | url=https://www.biswabanglagatekolkata.in/ | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.578611 | long=88.471667 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39087520 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=An arch monument in New Town and one of the most iconic structures in Greater Kolkata. "Biswa Bangla" literally means "World Bengal". The structure consists of a single ring supported by two parabolic arches from four sides of the Narkelbagan intersection. The ring houses a restaurant and a visitors' gallery, which are surrounded by glass. There are two staircases and an elevator to reach the gallery. Decorative paintings of luminaries have been drawn on the wall inside the ring with the outer side having a glass façade to have a view of the township. }} * {{see | name=Harinalaya | alt=হরিণালয় ''Hariṇālaẏ'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60833 | long=88.46176 | directions=opposite Eco Park Gates 5 and 6, parking space for four-wheelers at ₹50 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM&mdash;6PM (closed at sunsets in winter) | price=₹50 for people above 5, both cash and UPI accepted | lastedit=2024-12-12 | content=A {{acre|12.5}} mini zoo developed by HIDCO, and despite being named after deers (হরিণ ''hariṇ''), the zoo contains other animals as well. At the entrance, there's an aviary at the left and rides at the right. Rides include slides, mini jungle gyms, and swings. There's a waterbody for two large crocodiles and two hippos enclosed with fence. Other than real animals, there are images and concrete sculptures of birds. Within the zoo contains Nature's Cafe, which offers Chinese and Indian dishes along with non-alcoholic drinks. The zoo is a no-plastic zone, though you can picnic within the zoo premises. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Tirtha | alt=রবীন্দ্র তীর্থ ''Rabīndra Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57905 | long=88.47338 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=noon–7PM | price=₹20 | wikidata=Q7278759 | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A cultural centre dedicated to the poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It houses an exhibition of Tagore’s paintings, archives, a research centre, an auditorium and dormitories for students opting to conduct their research on Tagore. Various arts festivals are arranged here, including performances. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== * {{see | name=Arts Acre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{see | name=Fanattic Sports Museum | alt=FSM | url=http://fanatticsportsmuseum.com/ | email= | address=Ecospace Business Park, Action Area II | lat=22.585346 | long=88.48979 | directions=Ecospace {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM–7PM (closed on M) | price=₹10 | wikidata=Q30595430 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A sports museum dedicated to various types of sports and the first of its kind in West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Museum of Modern Art | alt=KMOMA | url=http://kmomamuseum.org/index.html | email= | address= | lat=22.61273 | long=88.46571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16893599 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A modern art museum. }} * {{see | name=Mother's Wax Museum | alt= | url=http://www.motherswaxmuseum.in/ | email= | address=Synthesis Business Park, MAR, Action Area II | lat=22.5999 | long=88.472 | directions=Prakriti Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2324 7243 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-3:30PM | price=150 | wikidata=Q22079942 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The Mother's Wax Museum consists of nine sections containing 18 to 19 wax models of eminent personalities. It contains models of Maradona, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Manna Dey, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, etc. }} * {{see | name=Naval Aircraft Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=DJ Block, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57704 | long=88.47818 | directions=New Town Police Station {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q108084678 | lastedit=2023-01-10 | content=A military aviation museum built by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) and is exhibiting a Tupolev Tu-142 of Indian Navy. Other exhibits for its interior and surroundings like a mannequin pilot, bombs, machinery etc. will be developed by the Navy. Apart from the aircraft on display, there is a small children's park and a coffee shop. }} ===[http://www.ecoparknewtown.com/ Eco Park]=== [[File:Lush_green_grass_along_the_lake.jpg|thumb|The main lake of Eco Park]] [[File:New Town skyline from Eco Park (25 February 2024).jpg|thumb|Skyline from Eco Park]] MAR, Action Area II (''bus stops: Eco Park, Prakriti Tirtha''), {{phone|+91 33 2706 4010}}. Noon–4:30PM (closed M). ₹20. Eco Park (ইকো পার্ক ''Iko Pārk'') or Prakriti Tirtha (প্রকৃতি তীর্থ ''Prakr̥ti Tīrtha'') is a 480-acre landscaped park surrounding a water body of about {{acre|100-120}}. The green space is so vast and diverse that it cannot be visited in a short trip easily, and many new attractions are coming here at a rapid pace. There are eight gates to access the park. Parking facilities available at Gate 1 and Gate 4. Activities include paddleboats, rowboats, duo cycles, birdwatching, etc. You can also ride in trackless "toy trains" to enjoy the park. The attractions within the park include: * {{see | name=Bengal Village | alt=বাংলার গ্রাম ''Bāṁlār Grām'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60276 | long=88.46632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco park-21-new town smart city-kolkata-India.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=An exhibition containing models depicting the daily life of rural [[Bengal]]. }} * {{see | name=Butterfly Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60806 | long=88.46528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Dome shaped arena for culturing butterfly WLB 0082.jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of a large dome to enclose a plant habitat consisting of different species of flowering annuals and perennials that support a large range of butterflies organised around a circular body of water. }} * {{see | name=Eco Children's Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60854 | long=88.46690 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eco Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59895 | long=88.46607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eiffel Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59422 | long=88.46653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ghum railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60795 | long=88.46708 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Darjeeling Railway (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=A dummy railway station with a toy train of the [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]]. You can get into the train to get a feeling of the Darjeeling Hills. It costs ₹10 per head for photoshoot inside the train. }} * {{see | name=Heliconia Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60688 | long=88.46546 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Herbal Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60215 | long=88.46452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Japanese Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59482 | long=88.46944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mask Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Mask Garden (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=An open-air collection of masks from various parts of the world, especially from various states of India, especially from West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Meadow Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59975 | long=88.47037 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Pakhibitan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60906 | long=88.46363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Promenade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60107 | long=88.46989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco Park Promenade (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The spine of Eco Park is a paved pathway lined with coconut trees. It is designed to enjoy the waterbody. There's a massive Solar Dome and a replica of the Eiffel Tower along the promenade. }} * {{see | name=Rabi Aranya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59646 | long=88.47135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Rose Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60353 | long=88.46899 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Walkway through the rose garden.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A long walking path with varieties of roses at both sides. }} * {{see | name=Sculpture Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60695 | long=88.46630 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Solar Dome | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6023 | long=88.46545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Solar Dome (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-06 | content=A dome-shaped structure that houses a museum about solar energy and its use in daily life. It has a guided tour with humanoid robots. The dome also houses a planetarium, marine aquarium, and an observation deck. It also has information stands on other renewable energies and also global warming, rising sea levels, and climate change. The structure itself generates a lot of solar power for the New Town area. }} * {{see | name=Seven Wonders | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60976 | long=88.46703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pyramid (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of replicas of seven world-famous monuments: the Pyramids of Giza, Christ the Redeemer, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, Petra, Colosseum and Moai Statues. Accessible from Gate 4. }} * {{see | name=Tropical Tree Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60541 | long=88.46798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Rain Forest (25 February 2024) 2.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=Contains a piece of the tropical forest of Bengal. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Aquatica | alt= | url=http://www.aquaticaindia.com/ | email= | address=Kochpukur | lat=22.562065 | long=88.465197 | directions=off Street 299; Thakdari {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 3200 7947, +91 93315 55220 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM daily | price=₹300–1,000 | wikidata=Q4782815 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=This theme water park offers visitors a cool respite from the heat and grime of city life. Aquatica has a number of rides including tremendously exciting ones like the Black Hole, the Wave Pool, Niagara Falls, surf racer, Tornado and the Aqua Dance Floor. Regular parties and fashion shows are hosted here, especially in the winter. Wide varieties of cocktails are available, as well as mocktails for sobers. }} * {{do | name=Eco Park Amphitheatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60828 | long=88.46342 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Amphitheatre eco park kolkata.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Eco Urban Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street 645, Action Area II | lat=22.61887 | long=88.4801 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A large picnic spot based around a lake, similar to Eco Park. Albeit smaller than Eco Park, the area is quieter and can provide a brief escape to the otherwise city life. Cottage rentals are available from ₹1,000. There's a tribal museum with the ticket price of ₹10 only. Red munia birds are common here, and many migrant birds come here around the lake during winter. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58275 | long=88.474056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109546936 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{do | name=Mela Ground | alt=Fairground | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57984 | long=88.46907 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Nazrul Tirtha | alt=নজরুল তীর্থ ''Najrul Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58194 | long=88.44845 | directions=Nazrul Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17118225 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A cultural and educational centre dedicated to the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The cultural centre is functioning partly as a cinema hall and open air theatre for exhibitions and performances. }} * {{do | name=New Town Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.582 | long=88.4585 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Hosts [[Durga Puja]] and trade fairs. }} * {{do | name=Ozone Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57887 | long=88.46796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59388 | long=88.46774 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Axis Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=CF Block, Action Area-IC | lat=22.5802 | long=88.4596 | directions= | phone=+91 33 32006827 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Axis Mall, New Town.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Shopping mall, restaurants, Bioscope multiplex with four screens. Restaurants include Aaheli (4F), Addiction (4F), Café Coffee Day (2F), Calcutta Retro (5F), Mehak-e-Punjab (4F). Keshariya Junction is a rail-themed multi-cuisine restaurant inside a replica of an [[rail travel in India|LHB coach]]. }} * {{buy | name=Biswa Bangla Haat | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা হাট ''Biśba Bāṁlā Hāṭ'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60982 | long=88.46452 | directions=Gate 5 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre II | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area-IID | lat=22.6232 | long=88.4503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=City center 2 newtown.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=There's Inox at third floor. Restaurants include KFC (GF, Block C), McDonald's (GF, Block A), Pizza Hut (GF, Block C), Gamma's World Cuisine (2F), Massekah (2F, Block B), The Orient (GF) and Zion Lounge (GF). }} * {{buy | name=DLF Galleria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.58172 | long=88.46052 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Down Town Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworld City, Action Area-III | lat=22.55951 | long=88.49538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-21 | content= }} * {{buy | name=HomeTown | alt=Central Mall | url=http://www.hometown.in/ | email= | address=BG Block | lat=22.5829 | long=88.4587 | directions= | phone=+91 90 07 862472 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=HomeTown - Mall - Rajarhat 2015-04-11 7085.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Misti Hub | alt=মিষ্টি হাব ''Miṣṭi Hāb'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46812 | directions=next to Gate 3 and Mask Garden | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Sonajhuri Hat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR, Action Area I | lat= | long= | directions=somewhere beneath the Axis Mall Flyover | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F–Su 5–8PM | price=No entry price | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Based on the famous Sonajhuri Hat in [[Santiniketan]]. }} ==Eat and drink== ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1000|₹1000 to ₹3000|Over ₹3000}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ccufi-fairfield-kolkata/overview | email= | address=CB Block, Action Area IC | lat=22.57905 | long=88.468475 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 4444 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,840 | wikidata=Q111861633 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6937/index.en.shtml | email= | address=CF 11, Action Area IC | lat=22.57963 | long=88.4614 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4032 3333, +91 33 4032 3334 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹9,670-12,390 | wikidata=Q111402430 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pride Plaza Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.pridehotel.com/pride-plaza-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=BG Block, Action Area I | lat=22.581898 | long=88.462685 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40259999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600&ndash;₹6,800 | wikidata=Q111402431 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Swissotel | alt= | url=https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/?intid=bansko0510enexplore-hotel/reviews/explore-hotel/reviews/ | email=kolkata@swissotel.com | address=City Centre, Action Area-IID | lat=22.6223 | long=88.4499 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6626 6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59409 | long=88.46853 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR (South-East), Action Area-II | lat=22.592 | long=88.47439 | directions=opposite Eco Park | phone=+91 33 4037 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402434 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The tallest buildings in New Town. }} ==Connect== The {{km|10.5}} area from Kolkata Airport to Salt Lake Sector V is a free Wi-Fi zone. ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=New Town Police Station | address=New Town Rd, DJ Block, Action Area I | lat=22.57618 | long=88.47864 | phone=+91 33 23246077 }} * {{listing | name=Rajarhat Police Station | address= | lat=22.63171 | long=88.48498 | phone=+91 33 25733289 }} {{outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo||}} 0b7d7sw7246e5exayw67cyyb87b6nww 5090733 5090728 2025-07-10T12:18:22Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Added listing for Lemon Tree Premier New Town Kolkata 5090733 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|pgname=New Town}} [[File:Biswa Bangla Gate.jpg|thumb|Biswa Bangla Gate]] '''New Town''' (নিউটাউন ''Niuṭaun''), also called '''Rajarhat''' (রাজারহাট ''Rājārhāṭ''), is one of the newest satellite towns of [[Kolkata]] at the extreme east. It is the second IT hub of Kolkata, with the offices of TCS, Infosys, Unitech and other fintech (financial technology) companies. '''Eco Park''', one of the largest urban spaces in India, is the main tourist attraction of this district, attracting people from West Bengal and even beyond. New Town was developed in the late 1990s and is rapidly growing under the leadership of the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). The Indian government declared New Town a "Solar City" and later a "Smart Green City". As one of the newest parts of the bustling metropolis, New Town will take you to an ultra-modern world, compared to the "Old Town" of [[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]]. A planned community, New Town is surrounded by [[Kolkata/East|Bidhannagar]] and the [[Kolkata/Northern Suburbs|Northern Suburbs]] at the west, the East Kolkata Wetlands at the south, and the vast rural areas of [[North 24 Parganas|North]] and [[South 24 Parganas]] at north and east respectively. The town is divided into three action areas: I, II and III. Action Area I (AA I) is the main area of the town, and it has various houses, housing complexes, shopping malls, and parks. The parks include children's parks, seniors' parks (like Swapna Bhor), and also parks themed on famous Bengali films (like Apur Sansar, Sonar Kella). The eastern end of AA I is home to various tech complexes. Action Area II (AA II) is surrounded by several tech complexes, with tech parks like Ecospace, FinTech Hub, Synthesis and Bengal Silicon Valley. It also has housing complexes at the northern end, between Mangaldeep and Owl junctions. Eco Park is in AA II. Action Area III (AA III) is the least-developed area, with a mix of both urban and rural areas. It is home to massive housing complexes like Uniworld City and Shapoorji Pallonji's Sukhobrishti. The eastern end has a handful but notable tech complexes of Infosys and ITC Limited. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.592|88.475|width=400|height=450|name=Map of New Town}} 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===By bus=== * {{marker|type=go|name=New Town Bus Stand|lat=22.58281|long=88.45365}} (AH Block, Action Area I) ===By car=== New Town is served by certain arterial roads to and from the township. '''Major Arterial Road''' ('''MAR''') starts from Salt Lake Sector V, then turns left at Narkelbagan More crossing, turns left again at Akankha More and finally meets at VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani) near Kolkata Airport. The road serves the Action Areas I and II. There are two other roads that begin from Narkelbagan More. The one next to Rabindra Tirtha (not the one next to HIDCO Bhaban) runs across Action Area III, while the one opposite Rabindra Tirtha runs across the southern parts of Action Area I before meeting at a narrower 2-lane road next to East Kolkata Wetlands. ==Get around== New Town has a unique transport infrastructure that is rare in the rest of Kolkata or even West Bengal. ===By electric car=== New Town has some charging stations for electric cars, which are very useful for the electric vehicles in West Bengal as the rest of the state has a lack of charging stations. ===By bicycle=== It has some bike paths along footpaths, and they are usually coloured in green. Bicycles are mainly useful for short trips, and for longer trips you have to opt for a bus or car. ==See== * {{see | name=Biswa Bangla Gate | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা গেট ''Biśba Bāṃlā Geṭ'' | url=https://www.biswabanglagatekolkata.in/ | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.578611 | long=88.471667 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39087520 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=An arch monument in New Town and one of the most iconic structures in Greater Kolkata. "Biswa Bangla" literally means "World Bengal". The structure consists of a single ring supported by two parabolic arches from four sides of the Narkelbagan intersection. The ring houses a restaurant and a visitors' gallery, which are surrounded by glass. There are two staircases and an elevator to reach the gallery. Decorative paintings of luminaries have been drawn on the wall inside the ring with the outer side having a glass façade to have a view of the township. }} * {{see | name=Harinalaya | alt=হরিণালয় ''Hariṇālaẏ'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60833 | long=88.46176 | directions=opposite Eco Park Gates 5 and 6, parking space for four-wheelers at ₹50 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM&mdash;6PM (closed at sunsets in winter) | price=₹50 for people above 5, both cash and UPI accepted | lastedit=2024-12-12 | content=A {{acre|12.5}} mini zoo developed by HIDCO, and despite being named after deers (হরিণ ''hariṇ''), the zoo contains other animals as well. At the entrance, there's an aviary at the left and rides at the right. Rides include slides, mini jungle gyms, and swings. There's a waterbody for two large crocodiles and two hippos enclosed with fence. Other than real animals, there are images and concrete sculptures of birds. Within the zoo contains Nature's Cafe, which offers Chinese and Indian dishes along with non-alcoholic drinks. The zoo is a no-plastic zone, though you can picnic within the zoo premises. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Tirtha | alt=রবীন্দ্র তীর্থ ''Rabīndra Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57905 | long=88.47338 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=noon–7PM | price=₹20 | wikidata=Q7278759 | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A cultural centre dedicated to the poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It houses an exhibition of Tagore’s paintings, archives, a research centre, an auditorium and dormitories for students opting to conduct their research on Tagore. Various arts festivals are arranged here, including performances. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== * {{see | name=Arts Acre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{see | name=Fanattic Sports Museum | alt=FSM | url=http://fanatticsportsmuseum.com/ | email= | address=Ecospace Business Park, Action Area II | lat=22.585346 | long=88.48979 | directions=Ecospace {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM–7PM (closed on M) | price=₹10 | wikidata=Q30595430 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A sports museum dedicated to various types of sports and the first of its kind in West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Museum of Modern Art | alt=KMOMA | url=http://kmomamuseum.org/index.html | email= | address= | lat=22.61273 | long=88.46571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16893599 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A modern art museum. }} * {{see | name=Mother's Wax Museum | alt= | url=http://www.motherswaxmuseum.in/ | email= | address=Synthesis Business Park, MAR, Action Area II | lat=22.5999 | long=88.472 | directions=Prakriti Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2324 7243 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-3:30PM | price=150 | wikidata=Q22079942 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The Mother's Wax Museum consists of nine sections containing 18 to 19 wax models of eminent personalities. It contains models of Maradona, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Manna Dey, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, etc. }} * {{see | name=Naval Aircraft Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=DJ Block, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57704 | long=88.47818 | directions=New Town Police Station {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q108084678 | lastedit=2023-01-10 | content=A military aviation museum built by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) and is exhibiting a Tupolev Tu-142 of Indian Navy. Other exhibits for its interior and surroundings like a mannequin pilot, bombs, machinery etc. will be developed by the Navy. Apart from the aircraft on display, there is a small children's park and a coffee shop. }} ===[http://www.ecoparknewtown.com/ Eco Park]=== [[File:Lush_green_grass_along_the_lake.jpg|thumb|The main lake of Eco Park]] [[File:New Town skyline from Eco Park (25 February 2024).jpg|thumb|Skyline from Eco Park]] MAR, Action Area II (''bus stops: Eco Park, Prakriti Tirtha''), {{phone|+91 33 2706 4010}}. Noon–4:30PM (closed M). ₹20. Eco Park (ইকো পার্ক ''Iko Pārk'') or Prakriti Tirtha (প্রকৃতি তীর্থ ''Prakr̥ti Tīrtha'') is a 480-acre landscaped park surrounding a water body of about {{acre|100-120}}. The green space is so vast and diverse that it cannot be visited in a short trip easily, and many new attractions are coming here at a rapid pace. There are eight gates to access the park. Parking facilities available at Gate 1 and Gate 4. Activities include paddleboats, rowboats, duo cycles, birdwatching, etc. You can also ride in trackless "toy trains" to enjoy the park. The attractions within the park include: * {{see | name=Bengal Village | alt=বাংলার গ্রাম ''Bāṁlār Grām'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60276 | long=88.46632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco park-21-new town smart city-kolkata-India.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=An exhibition containing models depicting the daily life of rural [[Bengal]]. }} * {{see | name=Butterfly Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60806 | long=88.46528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Dome shaped arena for culturing butterfly WLB 0082.jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of a large dome to enclose a plant habitat consisting of different species of flowering annuals and perennials that support a large range of butterflies organised around a circular body of water. }} * {{see | name=Eco Children's Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60854 | long=88.46690 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eco Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59895 | long=88.46607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eiffel Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59422 | long=88.46653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ghum railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60795 | long=88.46708 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Darjeeling Railway (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=A dummy railway station with a toy train of the [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]]. You can get into the train to get a feeling of the Darjeeling Hills. It costs ₹10 per head for photoshoot inside the train. }} * {{see | name=Heliconia Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60688 | long=88.46546 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Herbal Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60215 | long=88.46452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Japanese Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59482 | long=88.46944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mask Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Mask Garden (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=An open-air collection of masks from various parts of the world, especially from various states of India, especially from West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Meadow Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59975 | long=88.47037 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Pakhibitan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60906 | long=88.46363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Promenade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60107 | long=88.46989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco Park Promenade (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The spine of Eco Park is a paved pathway lined with coconut trees. It is designed to enjoy the waterbody. There's a massive Solar Dome and a replica of the Eiffel Tower along the promenade. }} * {{see | name=Rabi Aranya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59646 | long=88.47135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Rose Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60353 | long=88.46899 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Walkway through the rose garden.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A long walking path with varieties of roses at both sides. }} * {{see | name=Sculpture Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60695 | long=88.46630 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Solar Dome | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6023 | long=88.46545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Solar Dome (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-06 | content=A dome-shaped structure that houses a museum about solar energy and its use in daily life. It has a guided tour with humanoid robots. The dome also houses a planetarium, marine aquarium, and an observation deck. It also has information stands on other renewable energies and also global warming, rising sea levels, and climate change. The structure itself generates a lot of solar power for the New Town area. }} * {{see | name=Seven Wonders | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60976 | long=88.46703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pyramid (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of replicas of seven world-famous monuments: the Pyramids of Giza, Christ the Redeemer, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, Petra, Colosseum and Moai Statues. Accessible from Gate 4. }} * {{see | name=Tropical Tree Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60541 | long=88.46798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Rain Forest (25 February 2024) 2.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=Contains a piece of the tropical forest of Bengal. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Aquatica | alt= | url=http://www.aquaticaindia.com/ | email= | address=Kochpukur | lat=22.562065 | long=88.465197 | directions=off Street 299; Thakdari {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 3200 7947, +91 93315 55220 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM daily | price=₹300–1,000 | wikidata=Q4782815 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=This theme water park offers visitors a cool respite from the heat and grime of city life. Aquatica has a number of rides including tremendously exciting ones like the Black Hole, the Wave Pool, Niagara Falls, surf racer, Tornado and the Aqua Dance Floor. Regular parties and fashion shows are hosted here, especially in the winter. Wide varieties of cocktails are available, as well as mocktails for sobers. }} * {{do | name=Eco Park Amphitheatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60828 | long=88.46342 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Amphitheatre eco park kolkata.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Eco Urban Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street 645, Action Area II | lat=22.61887 | long=88.4801 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A large picnic spot based around a lake, similar to Eco Park. Albeit smaller than Eco Park, the area is quieter and can provide a brief escape to the otherwise city life. Cottage rentals are available from ₹1,000. There's a tribal museum with the ticket price of ₹10 only. Red munia birds are common here, and many migrant birds come here around the lake during winter. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58275 | long=88.474056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109546936 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{do | name=Mela Ground | alt=Fairground | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57984 | long=88.46907 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Nazrul Tirtha | alt=নজরুল তীর্থ ''Najrul Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58194 | long=88.44845 | directions=Nazrul Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17118225 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A cultural and educational centre dedicated to the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The cultural centre is functioning partly as a cinema hall and open air theatre for exhibitions and performances. }} * {{do | name=New Town Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.582 | long=88.4585 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Hosts [[Durga Puja]] and trade fairs. }} * {{do | name=Ozone Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57887 | long=88.46796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59388 | long=88.46774 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Axis Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=CF Block, Action Area-IC | lat=22.5802 | long=88.4596 | directions= | phone=+91 33 32006827 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Axis Mall, New Town.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Shopping mall, restaurants, Bioscope multiplex with four screens. Restaurants include Aaheli (4F), Addiction (4F), Café Coffee Day (2F), Calcutta Retro (5F), Mehak-e-Punjab (4F). Keshariya Junction is a rail-themed multi-cuisine restaurant inside a replica of an [[rail travel in India|LHB coach]]. }} * {{buy | name=Biswa Bangla Haat | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা হাট ''Biśba Bāṁlā Hāṭ'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60982 | long=88.46452 | directions=Gate 5 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre II | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area-IID | lat=22.6232 | long=88.4503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=City center 2 newtown.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=There's Inox at third floor. Restaurants include KFC (GF, Block C), McDonald's (GF, Block A), Pizza Hut (GF, Block C), Gamma's World Cuisine (2F), Massekah (2F, Block B), The Orient (GF) and Zion Lounge (GF). }} * {{buy | name=DLF Galleria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.58172 | long=88.46052 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Down Town Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworld City, Action Area-III | lat=22.55951 | long=88.49538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-21 | content= }} * {{buy | name=HomeTown | alt=Central Mall | url=http://www.hometown.in/ | email= | address=BG Block | lat=22.5829 | long=88.4587 | directions= | phone=+91 90 07 862472 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=HomeTown - Mall - Rajarhat 2015-04-11 7085.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Misti Hub | alt=মিষ্টি হাব ''Miṣṭi Hāb'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46812 | directions=next to Gate 3 and Mask Garden | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Sonajhuri Hat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR, Action Area I | lat= | long= | directions=somewhere beneath the Axis Mall Flyover | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F–Su 5–8PM | price=No entry price | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Based on the famous Sonajhuri Hat in [[Santiniketan]]. }} ==Eat and drink== ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1000|₹1000 to ₹3000|Over ₹3000}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ccufi-fairfield-kolkata/overview | email= | address=CB Block, Action Area IC | lat=22.57905 | long=88.468475 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 4444 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,840 | wikidata=Q111861633 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6937/index.en.shtml | email= | address=CF 11, Action Area IC | lat=22.57963 | long=88.4614 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4032 3333, +91 33 4032 3334 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹9,670-12,390 | wikidata=Q111402430 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pride Plaza Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.pridehotel.com/pride-plaza-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=BG Block, Action Area I | lat=22.581898 | long=88.462685 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40259999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600&ndash;₹6,800 | wikidata=Q111402431 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Swissotel | alt= | url=https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/?intid=bansko0510enexplore-hotel/reviews/explore-hotel/reviews/ | email=kolkata@swissotel.com | address=City Centre, Action Area-IID | lat=22.6223 | long=88.4499 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6626 6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59409 | long=88.46853 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR (South-East), Action Area-II | lat=22.592 | long=88.47439 | directions=opposite Eco Park | phone=+91 33 4037 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402434 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The tallest buildings in New Town. }} * {{sleep | name=Lemon Tree Premier New Town Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.lemontreehotels.com/lemon-tree-premier/kolkata/new-town-kolkata | email= | address=BG 9, Action Area 1B | lat=22.581125 | long=88.461526 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6813 9900 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,460-8,410 | wikidata=Q111861628 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== The {{km|10.5}} area from Kolkata Airport to Salt Lake Sector V is a free Wi-Fi zone. ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=New Town Police Station | address=New Town Rd, DJ Block, Action Area I | lat=22.57618 | long=88.47864 | phone=+91 33 23246077 }} * {{listing | name=Rajarhat Police Station | address= | lat=22.63171 | long=88.48498 | phone=+91 33 25733289 }} {{outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo||}} 8hidbgkk64s6r60thl2m3xzfta10eqv 5090734 5090733 2025-07-10T12:18:46Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ 5090734 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|pgname=New Town}} [[File:Biswa Bangla Gate.jpg|thumb|Biswa Bangla Gate]] '''New Town''' (নিউটাউন ''Niuṭaun''), also called '''Rajarhat''' (রাজারহাট ''Rājārhāṭ''), is one of the newest satellite towns of [[Kolkata]] at the extreme east. It is the second IT hub of Kolkata, with the offices of TCS, Infosys, Unitech and other fintech (financial technology) companies. '''Eco Park''', one of the largest urban spaces in India, is the main tourist attraction of this district, attracting people from West Bengal and even beyond. New Town was developed in the late 1990s and is rapidly growing under the leadership of the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). The Indian government declared New Town a "Solar City" and later a "Smart Green City". As one of the newest parts of the bustling metropolis, New Town will take you to an ultra-modern world, compared to the "Old Town" of [[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]]. A planned community, New Town is surrounded by [[Kolkata/East|Bidhannagar]] and the [[Kolkata/Northern Suburbs|Northern Suburbs]] at the west, the East Kolkata Wetlands at the south, and the vast rural areas of [[North 24 Parganas|North]] and [[South 24 Parganas]] at north and east respectively. The town is divided into three action areas: I, II and III. Action Area I (AA I) is the main area of the town, and it has various houses, housing complexes, shopping malls, and parks. The parks include children's parks, seniors' parks (like Swapna Bhor), and also parks themed on famous Bengali films (like Apur Sansar, Sonar Kella). The eastern end of AA I is home to various tech complexes. Action Area II (AA II) is surrounded by several tech complexes, with tech parks like Ecospace, FinTech Hub, Synthesis and Bengal Silicon Valley. It also has housing complexes at the northern end, between Mangaldeep and Owl junctions. Eco Park is in AA II. Action Area III (AA III) is the least-developed area, with a mix of both urban and rural areas. It is home to massive housing complexes like Uniworld City and Shapoorji Pallonji's Sukhobrishti. The eastern end has a handful but notable tech complexes of Infosys and ITC Limited. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.592|88.475|width=400|height=450|name=Map of New Town}} 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===By bus=== * {{marker|type=go|name=New Town Bus Stand|lat=22.58281|long=88.45365}} (AH Block, Action Area I) ===By car=== New Town is served by certain arterial roads to and from the township. '''Major Arterial Road''' ('''MAR''') starts from Salt Lake Sector V, then turns left at Narkelbagan More crossing, turns left again at Akankha More and finally meets at VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani) near Kolkata Airport. The road serves the Action Areas I and II. There are two other roads that begin from Narkelbagan More. The one next to Rabindra Tirtha (not the one next to HIDCO Bhaban) runs across Action Area III, while the one opposite Rabindra Tirtha runs across the southern parts of Action Area I before meeting at a narrower 2-lane road next to East Kolkata Wetlands. ==Get around== New Town has a unique transport infrastructure that is rare in the rest of Kolkata or even West Bengal. ===By electric car=== New Town has some charging stations for electric cars, which are very useful for the electric vehicles in West Bengal as the rest of the state has a lack of charging stations. ===By bicycle=== It has some bike paths along footpaths, and they are usually coloured in green. Bicycles are mainly useful for short trips, and for longer trips you have to opt for a bus or car. ==See== * {{see | name=Biswa Bangla Gate | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা গেট ''Biśba Bāṃlā Geṭ'' | url=https://www.biswabanglagatekolkata.in/ | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.578611 | long=88.471667 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39087520 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=An arch monument in New Town and one of the most iconic structures in Greater Kolkata. "Biswa Bangla" literally means "World Bengal". The structure consists of a single ring supported by two parabolic arches from four sides of the Narkelbagan intersection. The ring houses a restaurant and a visitors' gallery, which are surrounded by glass. There are two staircases and an elevator to reach the gallery. Decorative paintings of luminaries have been drawn on the wall inside the ring with the outer side having a glass façade to have a view of the township. }} * {{see | name=Harinalaya | alt=হরিণালয় ''Hariṇālaẏ'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60833 | long=88.46176 | directions=opposite Eco Park Gates 5 and 6, parking space for four-wheelers at ₹50 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM&mdash;6PM (closed at sunsets in winter) | price=₹50 for people above 5, both cash and UPI accepted | lastedit=2024-12-12 | content=A {{acre|12.5}} mini zoo developed by HIDCO, and despite being named after deers (হরিণ ''hariṇ''), the zoo contains other animals as well. At the entrance, there's an aviary at the left and rides at the right. Rides include slides, mini jungle gyms, and swings. There's a waterbody for two large crocodiles and two hippos enclosed with fence. Other than real animals, there are images and concrete sculptures of birds. Within the zoo contains Nature's Cafe, which offers Chinese and Indian dishes along with non-alcoholic drinks. The zoo is a no-plastic zone, though you can picnic within the zoo premises. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Tirtha | alt=রবীন্দ্র তীর্থ ''Rabīndra Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57905 | long=88.47338 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=noon–7PM | price=₹20 | wikidata=Q7278759 | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A cultural centre dedicated to the poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It houses an exhibition of Tagore’s paintings, archives, a research centre, an auditorium and dormitories for students opting to conduct their research on Tagore. Various arts festivals are arranged here, including performances. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== * {{see | name=Arts Acre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{see | name=Fanattic Sports Museum | alt=FSM | url=http://fanatticsportsmuseum.com/ | email= | address=Ecospace Business Park, Action Area II | lat=22.585346 | long=88.48979 | directions=Ecospace {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM–7PM (closed on M) | price=₹10 | wikidata=Q30595430 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A sports museum dedicated to various types of sports and the first of its kind in West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Museum of Modern Art | alt=KMOMA | url=http://kmomamuseum.org/index.html | email= | address= | lat=22.61273 | long=88.46571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16893599 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A modern art museum. }} * {{see | name=Mother's Wax Museum | alt= | url=http://www.motherswaxmuseum.in/ | email= | address=Synthesis Business Park, MAR, Action Area II | lat=22.5999 | long=88.472 | directions=Prakriti Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2324 7243 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-3:30PM | price=150 | wikidata=Q22079942 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The Mother's Wax Museum consists of nine sections containing 18 to 19 wax models of eminent personalities. It contains models of Maradona, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Manna Dey, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, etc. }} * {{see | name=Naval Aircraft Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=DJ Block, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57704 | long=88.47818 | directions=New Town Police Station {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q108084678 | lastedit=2023-01-10 | content=A military aviation museum built by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) and is exhibiting a Tupolev Tu-142 of Indian Navy. Other exhibits for its interior and surroundings like a mannequin pilot, bombs, machinery etc. will be developed by the Navy. Apart from the aircraft on display, there is a small children's park and a coffee shop. }} ===[http://www.ecoparknewtown.com/ Eco Park]=== [[File:Lush_green_grass_along_the_lake.jpg|thumb|The main lake of Eco Park]] [[File:New Town skyline from Eco Park (25 February 2024).jpg|thumb|Skyline from Eco Park]] MAR, Action Area II (''bus stops: Eco Park, Prakriti Tirtha''), {{phone|+91 33 2706 4010}}. Noon–4:30PM (closed M). ₹20. Eco Park (ইকো পার্ক ''Iko Pārk'') or Prakriti Tirtha (প্রকৃতি তীর্থ ''Prakr̥ti Tīrtha'') is a 480-acre landscaped park surrounding a water body of about {{acre|100-120}}. The green space is so vast and diverse that it cannot be visited in a short trip easily, and many new attractions are coming here at a rapid pace. There are eight gates to access the park. Parking facilities available at Gate 1 and Gate 4. Activities include paddleboats, rowboats, duo cycles, birdwatching, etc. You can also ride in trackless "toy trains" to enjoy the park. The attractions within the park include: * {{see | name=Bengal Village | alt=বাংলার গ্রাম ''Bāṁlār Grām'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60276 | long=88.46632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco park-21-new town smart city-kolkata-India.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=An exhibition containing models depicting the daily life of rural [[Bengal]]. }} * {{see | name=Butterfly Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60806 | long=88.46528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Dome shaped arena for culturing butterfly WLB 0082.jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of a large dome to enclose a plant habitat consisting of different species of flowering annuals and perennials that support a large range of butterflies organised around a circular body of water. }} * {{see | name=Eco Children's Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60854 | long=88.46690 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eco Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59895 | long=88.46607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eiffel Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59422 | long=88.46653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ghum railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60795 | long=88.46708 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Darjeeling Railway (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=A dummy railway station with a toy train of the [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]]. You can get into the train to get a feeling of the Darjeeling Hills. It costs ₹10 per head for photoshoot inside the train. }} * {{see | name=Heliconia Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60688 | long=88.46546 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Herbal Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60215 | long=88.46452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Japanese Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59482 | long=88.46944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mask Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Mask Garden (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=An open-air collection of masks from various parts of the world, especially from various states of India, especially from West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Meadow Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59975 | long=88.47037 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Pakhibitan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60906 | long=88.46363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Promenade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60107 | long=88.46989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco Park Promenade (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The spine of Eco Park is a paved pathway lined with coconut trees. It is designed to enjoy the waterbody. There's a massive Solar Dome and a replica of the Eiffel Tower along the promenade. }} * {{see | name=Rabi Aranya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59646 | long=88.47135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Rose Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60353 | long=88.46899 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Walkway through the rose garden.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A long walking path with varieties of roses at both sides. }} * {{see | name=Sculpture Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60695 | long=88.46630 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Solar Dome | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6023 | long=88.46545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Solar Dome (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-06 | content=A dome-shaped structure that houses a museum about solar energy and its use in daily life. It has a guided tour with humanoid robots. The dome also houses a planetarium, marine aquarium, and an observation deck. It also has information stands on other renewable energies and also global warming, rising sea levels, and climate change. The structure itself generates a lot of solar power for the New Town area. }} * {{see | name=Seven Wonders | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60976 | long=88.46703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pyramid (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of replicas of seven world-famous monuments: the Pyramids of Giza, Christ the Redeemer, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, Petra, Colosseum and Moai Statues. Accessible from Gate 4. }} * {{see | name=Tropical Tree Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60541 | long=88.46798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Rain Forest (25 February 2024) 2.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=Contains a piece of the tropical forest of Bengal. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Aquatica | alt= | url=http://www.aquaticaindia.com/ | email= | address=Kochpukur | lat=22.562065 | long=88.465197 | directions=off Street 299; Thakdari {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 3200 7947, +91 93315 55220 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM daily | price=₹300–1,000 | wikidata=Q4782815 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=This theme water park offers visitors a cool respite from the heat and grime of city life. Aquatica has a number of rides including tremendously exciting ones like the Black Hole, the Wave Pool, Niagara Falls, surf racer, Tornado and the Aqua Dance Floor. Regular parties and fashion shows are hosted here, especially in the winter. Wide varieties of cocktails are available, as well as mocktails for sobers. }} * {{do | name=Eco Park Amphitheatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60828 | long=88.46342 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Amphitheatre eco park kolkata.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Eco Urban Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street 645, Action Area II | lat=22.61887 | long=88.4801 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A large picnic spot based around a lake, similar to Eco Park. Albeit smaller than Eco Park, the area is quieter and can provide a brief escape to the otherwise city life. Cottage rentals are available from ₹1,000. There's a tribal museum with the ticket price of ₹10 only. Red munia birds are common here, and many migrant birds come here around the lake during winter. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58275 | long=88.474056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109546936 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{do | name=Mela Ground | alt=Fairground | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57984 | long=88.46907 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Nazrul Tirtha | alt=নজরুল তীর্থ ''Najrul Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58194 | long=88.44845 | directions=Nazrul Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17118225 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A cultural and educational centre dedicated to the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The cultural centre is functioning partly as a cinema hall and open air theatre for exhibitions and performances. }} * {{do | name=New Town Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.582 | long=88.4585 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Hosts [[Durga Puja]] and trade fairs. }} * {{do | name=Ozone Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57887 | long=88.46796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59388 | long=88.46774 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Axis Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=CF Block, Action Area-IC | lat=22.5802 | long=88.4596 | directions= | phone=+91 33 32006827 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Axis Mall, New Town.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Shopping mall, restaurants, Bioscope multiplex with four screens. Restaurants include Aaheli (4F), Addiction (4F), Café Coffee Day (2F), Calcutta Retro (5F), Mehak-e-Punjab (4F). Keshariya Junction is a rail-themed multi-cuisine restaurant inside a replica of an [[rail travel in India|LHB coach]]. }} * {{buy | name=Biswa Bangla Haat | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা হাট ''Biśba Bāṁlā Hāṭ'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60982 | long=88.46452 | directions=Gate 5 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre II | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area-IID | lat=22.6232 | long=88.4503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=City center 2 newtown.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=There's Inox at third floor. Restaurants include KFC (GF, Block C), McDonald's (GF, Block A), Pizza Hut (GF, Block C), Gamma's World Cuisine (2F), Massekah (2F, Block B), The Orient (GF) and Zion Lounge (GF). }} * {{buy | name=DLF Galleria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.58172 | long=88.46052 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Down Town Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworld City, Action Area-III | lat=22.55951 | long=88.49538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-21 | content= }} * {{buy | name=HomeTown | alt=Central Mall | url=http://www.hometown.in/ | email= | address=BG Block | lat=22.5829 | long=88.4587 | directions= | phone=+91 90 07 862472 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=HomeTown - Mall - Rajarhat 2015-04-11 7085.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Misti Hub | alt=মিষ্টি হাব ''Miṣṭi Hāb'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46812 | directions=next to Gate 3 and Mask Garden | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Sonajhuri Hat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR, Action Area I | lat= | long= | directions=somewhere beneath the Axis Mall Flyover | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F–Su 5–8PM | price=No entry price | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Based on the famous Sonajhuri Hat in [[Santiniketan]]. }} ==Eat and drink== ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1000|₹1000 to ₹3000|Over ₹3000}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ccufi-fairfield-kolkata/overview | email= | address=CB Block, Action Area IC | lat=22.57905 | long=88.468475 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 4444 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,840 | wikidata=Q111861633 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lemon Tree Premier New Town Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.lemontreehotels.com/lemon-tree-premier/kolkata/new-town-kolkata | email= | address=BG 9, Action Area 1B | lat=22.581125 | long=88.461526 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6813 9900 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,460-8,410 | wikidata=Q111861628 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6937/index.en.shtml | email= | address=CF 11, Action Area IC | lat=22.57963 | long=88.4614 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4032 3333, +91 33 4032 3334 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹9,670-12,390 | wikidata=Q111402430 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pride Plaza Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.pridehotel.com/pride-plaza-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=BG Block, Action Area I | lat=22.581898 | long=88.462685 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40259999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600&ndash;₹6,800 | wikidata=Q111402431 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Swissotel | alt= | url=https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/?intid=bansko0510enexplore-hotel/reviews/explore-hotel/reviews/ | email=kolkata@swissotel.com | address=City Centre, Action Area-IID | lat=22.6223 | long=88.4499 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6626 6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59409 | long=88.46853 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR (South-East), Action Area-II | lat=22.592 | long=88.47439 | directions=opposite Eco Park | phone=+91 33 4037 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402434 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The tallest buildings in New Town. }} ==Connect== The {{km|10.5}} area from Kolkata Airport to Salt Lake Sector V is a free Wi-Fi zone. ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=New Town Police Station | address=New Town Rd, DJ Block, Action Area I | lat=22.57618 | long=88.47864 | phone=+91 33 23246077 }} * {{listing | name=Rajarhat Police Station | address= | lat=22.63171 | long=88.48498 | phone=+91 33 25733289 }} {{outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo||}} keuzzcipnmpv1wmppnyr1mi7akzwh9m 5090748 5090734 2025-07-10T12:29:10Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Sleep */ 5090748 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|pgname=New Town}} [[File:Biswa Bangla Gate.jpg|thumb|Biswa Bangla Gate]] '''New Town''' (নিউটাউন ''Niuṭaun''), also called '''Rajarhat''' (রাজারহাট ''Rājārhāṭ''), is one of the newest satellite towns of [[Kolkata]] at the extreme east. It is the second IT hub of Kolkata, with the offices of TCS, Infosys, Unitech and other fintech (financial technology) companies. '''Eco Park''', one of the largest urban spaces in India, is the main tourist attraction of this district, attracting people from West Bengal and even beyond. New Town was developed in the late 1990s and is rapidly growing under the leadership of the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). The Indian government declared New Town a "Solar City" and later a "Smart Green City". As one of the newest parts of the bustling metropolis, New Town will take you to an ultra-modern world, compared to the "Old Town" of [[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]]. A planned community, New Town is surrounded by [[Kolkata/East|Bidhannagar]] and the [[Kolkata/Northern Suburbs|Northern Suburbs]] at the west, the East Kolkata Wetlands at the south, and the vast rural areas of [[North 24 Parganas|North]] and [[South 24 Parganas]] at north and east respectively. The town is divided into three action areas: I, II and III. Action Area I (AA I) is the main area of the town, and it has various houses, housing complexes, shopping malls, and parks. The parks include children's parks, seniors' parks (like Swapna Bhor), and also parks themed on famous Bengali films (like Apur Sansar, Sonar Kella). The eastern end of AA I is home to various tech complexes. Action Area II (AA II) is surrounded by several tech complexes, with tech parks like Ecospace, FinTech Hub, Synthesis and Bengal Silicon Valley. It also has housing complexes at the northern end, between Mangaldeep and Owl junctions. Eco Park is in AA II. Action Area III (AA III) is the least-developed area, with a mix of both urban and rural areas. It is home to massive housing complexes like Uniworld City and Shapoorji Pallonji's Sukhobrishti. The eastern end has a handful but notable tech complexes of Infosys and ITC Limited. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.592|88.475|width=400|height=450|name=Map of New Town}} 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===By bus=== * {{marker|type=go|name=New Town Bus Stand|lat=22.58281|long=88.45365}} (AH Block, Action Area I) ===By car=== New Town is served by certain arterial roads to and from the township. '''Major Arterial Road''' ('''MAR''') starts from Salt Lake Sector V, then turns left at Narkelbagan More crossing, turns left again at Akankha More and finally meets at VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani) near Kolkata Airport. The road serves the Action Areas I and II. There are two other roads that begin from Narkelbagan More. The one next to Rabindra Tirtha (not the one next to HIDCO Bhaban) runs across Action Area III, while the one opposite Rabindra Tirtha runs across the southern parts of Action Area I before meeting at a narrower 2-lane road next to East Kolkata Wetlands. ==Get around== New Town has a unique transport infrastructure that is rare in the rest of Kolkata or even West Bengal. ===By electric car=== New Town has some charging stations for electric cars, which are very useful for the electric vehicles in West Bengal as the rest of the state has a lack of charging stations. ===By bicycle=== It has some bike paths along footpaths, and they are usually coloured in green. Bicycles are mainly useful for short trips, and for longer trips you have to opt for a bus or car. ==See== * {{see | name=Biswa Bangla Gate | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা গেট ''Biśba Bāṃlā Geṭ'' | url=https://www.biswabanglagatekolkata.in/ | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.578611 | long=88.471667 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39087520 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=An arch monument in New Town and one of the most iconic structures in Greater Kolkata. "Biswa Bangla" literally means "World Bengal". The structure consists of a single ring supported by two parabolic arches from four sides of the Narkelbagan intersection. The ring houses a restaurant and a visitors' gallery, which are surrounded by glass. There are two staircases and an elevator to reach the gallery. Decorative paintings of luminaries have been drawn on the wall inside the ring with the outer side having a glass façade to have a view of the township. }} * {{see | name=Harinalaya | alt=হরিণালয় ''Hariṇālaẏ'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60833 | long=88.46176 | directions=opposite Eco Park Gates 5 and 6, parking space for four-wheelers at ₹50 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM&mdash;6PM (closed at sunsets in winter) | price=₹50 for people above 5, both cash and UPI accepted | lastedit=2024-12-12 | content=A {{acre|12.5}} mini zoo developed by HIDCO, and despite being named after deers (হরিণ ''hariṇ''), the zoo contains other animals as well. At the entrance, there's an aviary at the left and rides at the right. Rides include slides, mini jungle gyms, and swings. There's a waterbody for two large crocodiles and two hippos enclosed with fence. Other than real animals, there are images and concrete sculptures of birds. Within the zoo contains Nature's Cafe, which offers Chinese and Indian dishes along with non-alcoholic drinks. The zoo is a no-plastic zone, though you can picnic within the zoo premises. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Tirtha | alt=রবীন্দ্র তীর্থ ''Rabīndra Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57905 | long=88.47338 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=noon–7PM | price=₹20 | wikidata=Q7278759 | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A cultural centre dedicated to the poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It houses an exhibition of Tagore’s paintings, archives, a research centre, an auditorium and dormitories for students opting to conduct their research on Tagore. Various arts festivals are arranged here, including performances. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== * {{see | name=Arts Acre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{see | name=Fanattic Sports Museum | alt=FSM | url=http://fanatticsportsmuseum.com/ | email= | address=Ecospace Business Park, Action Area II | lat=22.585346 | long=88.48979 | directions=Ecospace {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM–7PM (closed on M) | price=₹10 | wikidata=Q30595430 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A sports museum dedicated to various types of sports and the first of its kind in West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Museum of Modern Art | alt=KMOMA | url=http://kmomamuseum.org/index.html | email= | address= | lat=22.61273 | long=88.46571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16893599 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A modern art museum. }} * {{see | name=Mother's Wax Museum | alt= | url=http://www.motherswaxmuseum.in/ | email= | address=Synthesis Business Park, MAR, Action Area II | lat=22.5999 | long=88.472 | directions=Prakriti Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2324 7243 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-3:30PM | price=150 | wikidata=Q22079942 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The Mother's Wax Museum consists of nine sections containing 18 to 19 wax models of eminent personalities. It contains models of Maradona, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Manna Dey, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, etc. }} * {{see | name=Naval Aircraft Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=DJ Block, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57704 | long=88.47818 | directions=New Town Police Station {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q108084678 | lastedit=2023-01-10 | content=A military aviation museum built by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) and is exhibiting a Tupolev Tu-142 of Indian Navy. Other exhibits for its interior and surroundings like a mannequin pilot, bombs, machinery etc. will be developed by the Navy. Apart from the aircraft on display, there is a small children's park and a coffee shop. }} ===[http://www.ecoparknewtown.com/ Eco Park]=== [[File:Lush_green_grass_along_the_lake.jpg|thumb|The main lake of Eco Park]] [[File:New Town skyline from Eco Park (25 February 2024).jpg|thumb|Skyline from Eco Park]] MAR, Action Area II (''bus stops: Eco Park, Prakriti Tirtha''), {{phone|+91 33 2706 4010}}. Noon–4:30PM (closed M). ₹20. Eco Park (ইকো পার্ক ''Iko Pārk'') or Prakriti Tirtha (প্রকৃতি তীর্থ ''Prakr̥ti Tīrtha'') is a 480-acre landscaped park surrounding a water body of about {{acre|100-120}}. The green space is so vast and diverse that it cannot be visited in a short trip easily, and many new attractions are coming here at a rapid pace. There are eight gates to access the park. Parking facilities available at Gate 1 and Gate 4. Activities include paddleboats, rowboats, duo cycles, birdwatching, etc. You can also ride in trackless "toy trains" to enjoy the park. The attractions within the park include: * {{see | name=Bengal Village | alt=বাংলার গ্রাম ''Bāṁlār Grām'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60276 | long=88.46632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco park-21-new town smart city-kolkata-India.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=An exhibition containing models depicting the daily life of rural [[Bengal]]. }} * {{see | name=Butterfly Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60806 | long=88.46528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Dome shaped arena for culturing butterfly WLB 0082.jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of a large dome to enclose a plant habitat consisting of different species of flowering annuals and perennials that support a large range of butterflies organised around a circular body of water. }} * {{see | name=Eco Children's Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60854 | long=88.46690 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eco Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59895 | long=88.46607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eiffel Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59422 | long=88.46653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ghum railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60795 | long=88.46708 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Darjeeling Railway (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=A dummy railway station with a toy train of the [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]]. You can get into the train to get a feeling of the Darjeeling Hills. It costs ₹10 per head for photoshoot inside the train. }} * {{see | name=Heliconia Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60688 | long=88.46546 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Herbal Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60215 | long=88.46452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Japanese Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59482 | long=88.46944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mask Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Mask Garden (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=An open-air collection of masks from various parts of the world, especially from various states of India, especially from West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Meadow Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59975 | long=88.47037 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Pakhibitan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60906 | long=88.46363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Promenade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60107 | long=88.46989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco Park Promenade (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The spine of Eco Park is a paved pathway lined with coconut trees. It is designed to enjoy the waterbody. There's a massive Solar Dome and a replica of the Eiffel Tower along the promenade. }} * {{see | name=Rabi Aranya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59646 | long=88.47135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Rose Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60353 | long=88.46899 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Walkway through the rose garden.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A long walking path with varieties of roses at both sides. }} * {{see | name=Sculpture Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60695 | long=88.46630 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Solar Dome | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6023 | long=88.46545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Solar Dome (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-06 | content=A dome-shaped structure that houses a museum about solar energy and its use in daily life. It has a guided tour with humanoid robots. The dome also houses a planetarium, marine aquarium, and an observation deck. It also has information stands on other renewable energies and also global warming, rising sea levels, and climate change. The structure itself generates a lot of solar power for the New Town area. }} * {{see | name=Seven Wonders | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60976 | long=88.46703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pyramid (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of replicas of seven world-famous monuments: the Pyramids of Giza, Christ the Redeemer, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, Petra, Colosseum and Moai Statues. Accessible from Gate 4. }} * {{see | name=Tropical Tree Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60541 | long=88.46798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Rain Forest (25 February 2024) 2.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=Contains a piece of the tropical forest of Bengal. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Aquatica | alt= | url=http://www.aquaticaindia.com/ | email= | address=Kochpukur | lat=22.562065 | long=88.465197 | directions=off Street 299; Thakdari {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 3200 7947, +91 93315 55220 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM daily | price=₹300–1,000 | wikidata=Q4782815 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=This theme water park offers visitors a cool respite from the heat and grime of city life. Aquatica has a number of rides including tremendously exciting ones like the Black Hole, the Wave Pool, Niagara Falls, surf racer, Tornado and the Aqua Dance Floor. Regular parties and fashion shows are hosted here, especially in the winter. Wide varieties of cocktails are available, as well as mocktails for sobers. }} * {{do | name=Eco Park Amphitheatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60828 | long=88.46342 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Amphitheatre eco park kolkata.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Eco Urban Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street 645, Action Area II | lat=22.61887 | long=88.4801 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A large picnic spot based around a lake, similar to Eco Park. Albeit smaller than Eco Park, the area is quieter and can provide a brief escape to the otherwise city life. Cottage rentals are available from ₹1,000. There's a tribal museum with the ticket price of ₹10 only. Red munia birds are common here, and many migrant birds come here around the lake during winter. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58275 | long=88.474056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109546936 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{do | name=Mela Ground | alt=Fairground | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57984 | long=88.46907 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Nazrul Tirtha | alt=নজরুল তীর্থ ''Najrul Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58194 | long=88.44845 | directions=Nazrul Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17118225 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A cultural and educational centre dedicated to the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The cultural centre is functioning partly as a cinema hall and open air theatre for exhibitions and performances. }} * {{do | name=New Town Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.582 | long=88.4585 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Hosts [[Durga Puja]] and trade fairs. }} * {{do | name=Ozone Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57887 | long=88.46796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59388 | long=88.46774 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Axis Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=CF Block, Action Area-IC | lat=22.5802 | long=88.4596 | directions= | phone=+91 33 32006827 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Axis Mall, New Town.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Shopping mall, restaurants, Bioscope multiplex with four screens. Restaurants include Aaheli (4F), Addiction (4F), Café Coffee Day (2F), Calcutta Retro (5F), Mehak-e-Punjab (4F). Keshariya Junction is a rail-themed multi-cuisine restaurant inside a replica of an [[rail travel in India|LHB coach]]. }} * {{buy | name=Biswa Bangla Haat | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা হাট ''Biśba Bāṁlā Hāṭ'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60982 | long=88.46452 | directions=Gate 5 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre II | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area-IID | lat=22.6232 | long=88.4503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=City center 2 newtown.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=There's Inox at third floor. Restaurants include KFC (GF, Block C), McDonald's (GF, Block A), Pizza Hut (GF, Block C), Gamma's World Cuisine (2F), Massekah (2F, Block B), The Orient (GF) and Zion Lounge (GF). }} * {{buy | name=DLF Galleria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.58172 | long=88.46052 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Down Town Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworld City, Action Area-III | lat=22.55951 | long=88.49538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-21 | content= }} * {{buy | name=HomeTown | alt=Central Mall | url=http://www.hometown.in/ | email= | address=BG Block | lat=22.5829 | long=88.4587 | directions= | phone=+91 90 07 862472 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=HomeTown - Mall - Rajarhat 2015-04-11 7085.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Misti Hub | alt=মিষ্টি হাব ''Miṣṭi Hāb'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46812 | directions=next to Gate 3 and Mask Garden | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Sonajhuri Hat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR, Action Area I | lat= | long= | directions=somewhere beneath the Axis Mall Flyover | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F–Su 5–8PM | price=No entry price | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Based on the famous Sonajhuri Hat in [[Santiniketan]]. }} ==Eat and drink== ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ccufi-fairfield-kolkata/overview | email= | address=CB Block, Action Area IC | lat=22.57905 | long=88.468475 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 4444 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,840 | wikidata=Q111861633 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lemon Tree Premier New Town Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.lemontreehotels.com/lemon-tree-premier/kolkata/new-town-kolkata | email= | address=BG 9, Action Area 1B | lat=22.581125 | long=88.461526 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6813 9900 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,460-8,410 | wikidata=Q111861628 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6937/index.en.shtml | email= | address=CF 11, Action Area IC | lat=22.57963 | long=88.4614 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4032 3333, +91 33 4032 3334 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹9,670-12,390 | wikidata=Q111402430 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pride Plaza Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.pridehotel.com/pride-plaza-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=BG Block, Action Area I | lat=22.581898 | long=88.462685 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40259999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600&ndash;₹6,800 | wikidata=Q111402431 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Swissotel | alt= | url=https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/?intid=bansko0510enexplore-hotel/reviews/explore-hotel/reviews/ | email=kolkata@swissotel.com | address=City Centre, Action Area-IID | lat=22.6223 | long=88.4499 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6626 6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59409 | long=88.46853 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR (South-East), Action Area-II | lat=22.592 | long=88.47439 | directions=opposite Eco Park | phone=+91 33 4037 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402434 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content }} ==Connect== The {{km|10.5}} area from Kolkata Airport to Salt Lake Sector V is a free Wi-Fi zone. ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=New Town Police Station | address=New Town Rd, DJ Block, Action Area I | lat=22.57618 | long=88.47864 | phone=+91 33 23246077 }} * {{listing | name=Rajarhat Police Station | address= | lat=22.63171 | long=88.48498 | phone=+91 33 25733289 }} {{outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo||}} hoi8ib8xs97tljg8e58gwco6zf9bffu 5090749 5090748 2025-07-10T12:29:53Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat 5090749 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|pgname=New Town}} [[File:Biswa Bangla Gate.jpg|thumb|Biswa Bangla Gate]] '''New Town''' (নিউটাউন ''Niuṭaun''), also called '''Rajarhat''' (রাজারহাট ''Rājārhāṭ''), is one of the newest satellite towns of [[Kolkata]] at the extreme east. It is the second IT hub of Kolkata, with the offices of TCS, Infosys, Unitech and other fintech (financial technology) companies. '''Eco Park''', one of the largest urban spaces in India, is the main tourist attraction of this district, attracting people from West Bengal and even beyond. New Town was developed in the late 1990s and is rapidly growing under the leadership of the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). The Indian government declared New Town a "Solar City" and later a "Smart Green City". As one of the newest parts of the bustling metropolis, New Town will take you to an ultra-modern world, compared to the "Old Town" of [[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]]. A planned community, New Town is surrounded by [[Kolkata/East|Bidhannagar]] and the [[Kolkata/Northern Suburbs|Northern Suburbs]] at the west, the East Kolkata Wetlands at the south, and the vast rural areas of [[North 24 Parganas|North]] and [[South 24 Parganas]] at north and east respectively. The town is divided into three action areas: I, II and III. Action Area I (AA I) is the main area of the town, and it has various houses, housing complexes, shopping malls, and parks. The parks include children's parks, seniors' parks (like Swapna Bhor), and also parks themed on famous Bengali films (like Apur Sansar, Sonar Kella). The eastern end of AA I is home to various tech complexes. Action Area II (AA II) is surrounded by several tech complexes, with tech parks like Ecospace, FinTech Hub, Synthesis and Bengal Silicon Valley. It also has housing complexes at the northern end, between Mangaldeep and Owl junctions. Eco Park is in AA II. Action Area III (AA III) is the least-developed area, with a mix of both urban and rural areas. It is home to massive housing complexes like Uniworld City and Shapoorji Pallonji's Sukhobrishti. The eastern end has a handful but notable tech complexes of Infosys and ITC Limited. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.592|88.475|width=400|height=450|name=Map of New Town}} 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===By bus=== * {{marker|type=go|name=New Town Bus Stand|lat=22.58281|long=88.45365}} (AH Block, Action Area I) ===By car=== New Town is served by certain arterial roads to and from the township. '''Major Arterial Road''' ('''MAR''') starts from Salt Lake Sector V, then turns left at Narkelbagan More crossing, turns left again at Akankha More and finally meets at VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani) near Kolkata Airport. The road serves the Action Areas I and II. There are two other roads that begin from Narkelbagan More. The one next to Rabindra Tirtha (not the one next to HIDCO Bhaban) runs across Action Area III, while the one opposite Rabindra Tirtha runs across the southern parts of Action Area I before meeting at a narrower 2-lane road next to East Kolkata Wetlands. ==Get around== New Town has a unique transport infrastructure that is rare in the rest of Kolkata or even West Bengal. ===By electric car=== New Town has some charging stations for electric cars, which are very useful for the electric vehicles in West Bengal as the rest of the state has a lack of charging stations. ===By bicycle=== It has some bike paths along footpaths, and they are usually coloured in green. Bicycles are mainly useful for short trips, and for longer trips you have to opt for a bus or car. ==See== * {{see | name=Biswa Bangla Gate | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা গেট ''Biśba Bāṃlā Geṭ'' | url=https://www.biswabanglagatekolkata.in/ | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.578611 | long=88.471667 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39087520 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=An arch monument in New Town and one of the most iconic structures in Greater Kolkata. "Biswa Bangla" literally means "World Bengal". The structure consists of a single ring supported by two parabolic arches from four sides of the Narkelbagan intersection. The ring houses a restaurant and a visitors' gallery, which are surrounded by glass. There are two staircases and an elevator to reach the gallery. Decorative paintings of luminaries have been drawn on the wall inside the ring with the outer side having a glass façade to have a view of the township. }} * {{see | name=Harinalaya | alt=হরিণালয় ''Hariṇālaẏ'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60833 | long=88.46176 | directions=opposite Eco Park Gates 5 and 6, parking space for four-wheelers at ₹50 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM&mdash;6PM (closed at sunsets in winter) | price=₹50 for people above 5, both cash and UPI accepted | lastedit=2024-12-12 | content=A {{acre|12.5}} mini zoo developed by HIDCO, and despite being named after deers (হরিণ ''hariṇ''), the zoo contains other animals as well. At the entrance, there's an aviary at the left and rides at the right. Rides include slides, mini jungle gyms, and swings. There's a waterbody for two large crocodiles and two hippos enclosed with fence. Other than real animals, there are images and concrete sculptures of birds. Within the zoo contains Nature's Cafe, which offers Chinese and Indian dishes along with non-alcoholic drinks. The zoo is a no-plastic zone, though you can picnic within the zoo premises. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Tirtha | alt=রবীন্দ্র তীর্থ ''Rabīndra Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57905 | long=88.47338 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=noon–7PM | price=₹20 | wikidata=Q7278759 | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A cultural centre dedicated to the poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It houses an exhibition of Tagore’s paintings, archives, a research centre, an auditorium and dormitories for students opting to conduct their research on Tagore. Various arts festivals are arranged here, including performances. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== * {{see | name=Arts Acre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{see | name=Fanattic Sports Museum | alt=FSM | url=http://fanatticsportsmuseum.com/ | email= | address=Ecospace Business Park, Action Area II | lat=22.585346 | long=88.48979 | directions=Ecospace {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM–7PM (closed on M) | price=₹10 | wikidata=Q30595430 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A sports museum dedicated to various types of sports and the first of its kind in West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Museum of Modern Art | alt=KMOMA | url=http://kmomamuseum.org/index.html | email= | address= | lat=22.61273 | long=88.46571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16893599 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A modern art museum. }} * {{see | name=Mother's Wax Museum | alt= | url=http://www.motherswaxmuseum.in/ | email= | address=Synthesis Business Park, MAR, Action Area II | lat=22.5999 | long=88.472 | directions=Prakriti Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2324 7243 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-3:30PM | price=150 | wikidata=Q22079942 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The Mother's Wax Museum consists of nine sections containing 18 to 19 wax models of eminent personalities. It contains models of Maradona, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Manna Dey, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, etc. }} * {{see | name=Naval Aircraft Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=DJ Block, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57704 | long=88.47818 | directions=New Town Police Station {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q108084678 | lastedit=2023-01-10 | content=A military aviation museum built by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) and is exhibiting a Tupolev Tu-142 of Indian Navy. Other exhibits for its interior and surroundings like a mannequin pilot, bombs, machinery etc. will be developed by the Navy. Apart from the aircraft on display, there is a small children's park and a coffee shop. }} ===[http://www.ecoparknewtown.com/ Eco Park]=== [[File:Lush_green_grass_along_the_lake.jpg|thumb|The main lake of Eco Park]] [[File:New Town skyline from Eco Park (25 February 2024).jpg|thumb|Skyline from Eco Park]] MAR, Action Area II (''bus stops: Eco Park, Prakriti Tirtha''), {{phone|+91 33 2706 4010}}. Noon–4:30PM (closed M). ₹20. Eco Park (ইকো পার্ক ''Iko Pārk'') or Prakriti Tirtha (প্রকৃতি তীর্থ ''Prakr̥ti Tīrtha'') is a 480-acre landscaped park surrounding a water body of about {{acre|100-120}}. The green space is so vast and diverse that it cannot be visited in a short trip easily, and many new attractions are coming here at a rapid pace. There are eight gates to access the park. Parking facilities available at Gate 1 and Gate 4. Activities include paddleboats, rowboats, duo cycles, birdwatching, etc. You can also ride in trackless "toy trains" to enjoy the park. The attractions within the park include: * {{see | name=Bengal Village | alt=বাংলার গ্রাম ''Bāṁlār Grām'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60276 | long=88.46632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco park-21-new town smart city-kolkata-India.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=An exhibition containing models depicting the daily life of rural [[Bengal]]. }} * {{see | name=Butterfly Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60806 | long=88.46528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Dome shaped arena for culturing butterfly WLB 0082.jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of a large dome to enclose a plant habitat consisting of different species of flowering annuals and perennials that support a large range of butterflies organised around a circular body of water. }} * {{see | name=Eco Children's Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60854 | long=88.46690 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eco Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59895 | long=88.46607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eiffel Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59422 | long=88.46653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ghum railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60795 | long=88.46708 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Darjeeling Railway (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=A dummy railway station with a toy train of the [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]]. You can get into the train to get a feeling of the Darjeeling Hills. It costs ₹10 per head for photoshoot inside the train. }} * {{see | name=Heliconia Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60688 | long=88.46546 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Herbal Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60215 | long=88.46452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Japanese Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59482 | long=88.46944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mask Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Mask Garden (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=An open-air collection of masks from various parts of the world, especially from various states of India, especially from West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Meadow Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59975 | long=88.47037 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Pakhibitan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60906 | long=88.46363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Promenade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60107 | long=88.46989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco Park Promenade (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The spine of Eco Park is a paved pathway lined with coconut trees. It is designed to enjoy the waterbody. There's a massive Solar Dome and a replica of the Eiffel Tower along the promenade. }} * {{see | name=Rabi Aranya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59646 | long=88.47135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Rose Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60353 | long=88.46899 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Walkway through the rose garden.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A long walking path with varieties of roses at both sides. }} * {{see | name=Sculpture Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60695 | long=88.46630 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Solar Dome | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6023 | long=88.46545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Solar Dome (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-06 | content=A dome-shaped structure that houses a museum about solar energy and its use in daily life. It has a guided tour with humanoid robots. The dome also houses a planetarium, marine aquarium, and an observation deck. It also has information stands on other renewable energies and also global warming, rising sea levels, and climate change. The structure itself generates a lot of solar power for the New Town area. }} * {{see | name=Seven Wonders | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60976 | long=88.46703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pyramid (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of replicas of seven world-famous monuments: the Pyramids of Giza, Christ the Redeemer, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, Petra, Colosseum and Moai Statues. Accessible from Gate 4. }} * {{see | name=Tropical Tree Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60541 | long=88.46798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Rain Forest (25 February 2024) 2.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=Contains a piece of the tropical forest of Bengal. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Aquatica | alt= | url=http://www.aquaticaindia.com/ | email= | address=Kochpukur | lat=22.562065 | long=88.465197 | directions=off Street 299; Thakdari {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 3200 7947, +91 93315 55220 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM daily | price=₹300–1,000 | wikidata=Q4782815 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=This theme water park offers visitors a cool respite from the heat and grime of city life. Aquatica has a number of rides including tremendously exciting ones like the Black Hole, the Wave Pool, Niagara Falls, surf racer, Tornado and the Aqua Dance Floor. Regular parties and fashion shows are hosted here, especially in the winter. Wide varieties of cocktails are available, as well as mocktails for sobers. }} * {{do | name=Eco Park Amphitheatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60828 | long=88.46342 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Amphitheatre eco park kolkata.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Eco Urban Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street 645, Action Area II | lat=22.61887 | long=88.4801 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A large picnic spot based around a lake, similar to Eco Park. Albeit smaller than Eco Park, the area is quieter and can provide a brief escape to the otherwise city life. Cottage rentals are available from ₹1,000. There's a tribal museum with the ticket price of ₹10 only. Red munia birds are common here, and many migrant birds come here around the lake during winter. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58275 | long=88.474056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109546936 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{do | name=Mela Ground | alt=Fairground | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57984 | long=88.46907 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Nazrul Tirtha | alt=নজরুল তীর্থ ''Najrul Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58194 | long=88.44845 | directions=Nazrul Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17118225 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A cultural and educational centre dedicated to the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The cultural centre is functioning partly as a cinema hall and open air theatre for exhibitions and performances. }} * {{do | name=New Town Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.582 | long=88.4585 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Hosts [[Durga Puja]] and trade fairs. }} * {{do | name=Ozone Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57887 | long=88.46796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59388 | long=88.46774 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Axis Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=CF Block, Action Area-IC | lat=22.5802 | long=88.4596 | directions= | phone=+91 33 32006827 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Axis Mall, New Town.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Shopping mall, restaurants, Bioscope multiplex with four screens. Restaurants include Aaheli (4F), Addiction (4F), Café Coffee Day (2F), Calcutta Retro (5F), Mehak-e-Punjab (4F). Keshariya Junction is a rail-themed multi-cuisine restaurant inside a replica of an [[rail travel in India|LHB coach]]. }} * {{buy | name=Biswa Bangla Haat | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা হাট ''Biśba Bāṁlā Hāṭ'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60982 | long=88.46452 | directions=Gate 5 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre II | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area-IID | lat=22.6232 | long=88.4503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=City center 2 newtown.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=There's Inox at third floor. Restaurants include KFC (GF, Block C), McDonald's (GF, Block A), Pizza Hut (GF, Block C), Gamma's World Cuisine (2F), Massekah (2F, Block B), The Orient (GF) and Zion Lounge (GF). }} * {{buy | name=DLF Galleria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.58172 | long=88.46052 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Down Town Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworld City, Action Area-III | lat=22.55951 | long=88.49538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-21 | content= }} * {{buy | name=HomeTown | alt=Central Mall | url=http://www.hometown.in/ | email= | address=BG Block | lat=22.5829 | long=88.4587 | directions= | phone=+91 90 07 862472 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=HomeTown - Mall - Rajarhat 2015-04-11 7085.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Misti Hub | alt=মিষ্টি হাব ''Miṣṭi Hāb'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46812 | directions=next to Gate 3 and Mask Garden | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Sonajhuri Hat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR, Action Area I | lat= | long= | directions=somewhere beneath the Axis Mall Flyover | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F–Su 5–8PM | price=No entry price | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Based on the famous Sonajhuri Hat in [[Santiniketan]]. }} ==Eat and drink== ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ccufi-fairfield-kolkata/overview | email= | address=CB Block, Action Area IC | lat=22.57905 | long=88.468475 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 4444 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,840 | wikidata=Q111861633 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lemon Tree Premier New Town Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.lemontreehotels.com/lemon-tree-premier/kolkata/new-town-kolkata | email= | address=BG 9, Action Area 1B | lat=22.581125 | long=88.461526 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6813 9900 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,460-8,410 | wikidata=Q111861628 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6937/index.en.shtml | email= | address=CF 11, Action Area IC | lat=22.57963 | long=88.4614 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4032 3333, +91 33 4032 3334 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹9,670-12,390 | wikidata=Q111402430 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pride Plaza Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.pridehotel.com/pride-plaza-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=BG Block, Action Area I | lat=22.581898 | long=88.462685 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40259999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600&ndash;₹6,800 | wikidata=Q111402431 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Swissotel | alt= | url=https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/?intid=bansko0510enexplore-hotel/reviews/explore-hotel/reviews/ | email=kolkata@swissotel.com | address=City Centre, Action Area-IID | lat=22.6223 | long=88.4499 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6626 6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59409 | long=88.46853 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR (South-East), Action Area-II | lat=22.592 | long=88.47439 | directions=opposite Eco Park | phone=+91 33 4037 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,670-9,970 | wikidata=Q111402434 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== The {{km|10.5}} area from Kolkata Airport to Salt Lake Sector V is a free Wi-Fi zone. ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=New Town Police Station | address=New Town Rd, DJ Block, Action Area I | lat=22.57618 | long=88.47864 | phone=+91 33 23246077 }} * {{listing | name=Rajarhat Police Station | address= | lat=22.63171 | long=88.48498 | phone=+91 33 25733289 }} {{outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo||}} t0ugh0o21sxntyjqey0vcmcr0sdu76c 5090750 5090749 2025-07-10T12:30:48Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Added listing for Vedic Village Spa Resort 5090750 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|pgname=New Town}} [[File:Biswa Bangla Gate.jpg|thumb|Biswa Bangla Gate]] '''New Town''' (নিউটাউন ''Niuṭaun''), also called '''Rajarhat''' (রাজারহাট ''Rājārhāṭ''), is one of the newest satellite towns of [[Kolkata]] at the extreme east. It is the second IT hub of Kolkata, with the offices of TCS, Infosys, Unitech and other fintech (financial technology) companies. '''Eco Park''', one of the largest urban spaces in India, is the main tourist attraction of this district, attracting people from West Bengal and even beyond. New Town was developed in the late 1990s and is rapidly growing under the leadership of the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). The Indian government declared New Town a "Solar City" and later a "Smart Green City". As one of the newest parts of the bustling metropolis, New Town will take you to an ultra-modern world, compared to the "Old Town" of [[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]]. A planned community, New Town is surrounded by [[Kolkata/East|Bidhannagar]] and the [[Kolkata/Northern Suburbs|Northern Suburbs]] at the west, the East Kolkata Wetlands at the south, and the vast rural areas of [[North 24 Parganas|North]] and [[South 24 Parganas]] at north and east respectively. The town is divided into three action areas: I, II and III. Action Area I (AA I) is the main area of the town, and it has various houses, housing complexes, shopping malls, and parks. The parks include children's parks, seniors' parks (like Swapna Bhor), and also parks themed on famous Bengali films (like Apur Sansar, Sonar Kella). The eastern end of AA I is home to various tech complexes. Action Area II (AA II) is surrounded by several tech complexes, with tech parks like Ecospace, FinTech Hub, Synthesis and Bengal Silicon Valley. It also has housing complexes at the northern end, between Mangaldeep and Owl junctions. Eco Park is in AA II. Action Area III (AA III) is the least-developed area, with a mix of both urban and rural areas. It is home to massive housing complexes like Uniworld City and Shapoorji Pallonji's Sukhobrishti. The eastern end has a handful but notable tech complexes of Infosys and ITC Limited. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.592|88.475|width=400|height=450|name=Map of New Town}} 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===By bus=== * {{marker|type=go|name=New Town Bus Stand|lat=22.58281|long=88.45365}} (AH Block, Action Area I) ===By car=== New Town is served by certain arterial roads to and from the township. '''Major Arterial Road''' ('''MAR''') starts from Salt Lake Sector V, then turns left at Narkelbagan More crossing, turns left again at Akankha More and finally meets at VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani) near Kolkata Airport. The road serves the Action Areas I and II. There are two other roads that begin from Narkelbagan More. The one next to Rabindra Tirtha (not the one next to HIDCO Bhaban) runs across Action Area III, while the one opposite Rabindra Tirtha runs across the southern parts of Action Area I before meeting at a narrower 2-lane road next to East Kolkata Wetlands. ==Get around== New Town has a unique transport infrastructure that is rare in the rest of Kolkata or even West Bengal. ===By electric car=== New Town has some charging stations for electric cars, which are very useful for the electric vehicles in West Bengal as the rest of the state has a lack of charging stations. ===By bicycle=== It has some bike paths along footpaths, and they are usually coloured in green. Bicycles are mainly useful for short trips, and for longer trips you have to opt for a bus or car. ==See== * {{see | name=Biswa Bangla Gate | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা গেট ''Biśba Bāṃlā Geṭ'' | url=https://www.biswabanglagatekolkata.in/ | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.578611 | long=88.471667 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39087520 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=An arch monument in New Town and one of the most iconic structures in Greater Kolkata. "Biswa Bangla" literally means "World Bengal". The structure consists of a single ring supported by two parabolic arches from four sides of the Narkelbagan intersection. The ring houses a restaurant and a visitors' gallery, which are surrounded by glass. There are two staircases and an elevator to reach the gallery. Decorative paintings of luminaries have been drawn on the wall inside the ring with the outer side having a glass façade to have a view of the township. }} * {{see | name=Harinalaya | alt=হরিণালয় ''Hariṇālaẏ'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60833 | long=88.46176 | directions=opposite Eco Park Gates 5 and 6, parking space for four-wheelers at ₹50 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM&mdash;6PM (closed at sunsets in winter) | price=₹50 for people above 5, both cash and UPI accepted | lastedit=2024-12-12 | content=A {{acre|12.5}} mini zoo developed by HIDCO, and despite being named after deers (হরিণ ''hariṇ''), the zoo contains other animals as well. At the entrance, there's an aviary at the left and rides at the right. Rides include slides, mini jungle gyms, and swings. There's a waterbody for two large crocodiles and two hippos enclosed with fence. Other than real animals, there are images and concrete sculptures of birds. Within the zoo contains Nature's Cafe, which offers Chinese and Indian dishes along with non-alcoholic drinks. The zoo is a no-plastic zone, though you can picnic within the zoo premises. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Tirtha | alt=রবীন্দ্র তীর্থ ''Rabīndra Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57905 | long=88.47338 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=noon–7PM | price=₹20 | wikidata=Q7278759 | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A cultural centre dedicated to the poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It houses an exhibition of Tagore’s paintings, archives, a research centre, an auditorium and dormitories for students opting to conduct their research on Tagore. Various arts festivals are arranged here, including performances. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== * {{see | name=Arts Acre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{see | name=Fanattic Sports Museum | alt=FSM | url=http://fanatticsportsmuseum.com/ | email= | address=Ecospace Business Park, Action Area II | lat=22.585346 | long=88.48979 | directions=Ecospace {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM–7PM (closed on M) | price=₹10 | wikidata=Q30595430 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A sports museum dedicated to various types of sports and the first of its kind in West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Museum of Modern Art | alt=KMOMA | url=http://kmomamuseum.org/index.html | email= | address= | lat=22.61273 | long=88.46571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16893599 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A modern art museum. }} * {{see | name=Mother's Wax Museum | alt= | url=http://www.motherswaxmuseum.in/ | email= | address=Synthesis Business Park, MAR, Action Area II | lat=22.5999 | long=88.472 | directions=Prakriti Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2324 7243 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-3:30PM | price=150 | wikidata=Q22079942 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The Mother's Wax Museum consists of nine sections containing 18 to 19 wax models of eminent personalities. It contains models of Maradona, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Manna Dey, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, etc. }} * {{see | name=Naval Aircraft Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=DJ Block, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57704 | long=88.47818 | directions=New Town Police Station {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q108084678 | lastedit=2023-01-10 | content=A military aviation museum built by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) and is exhibiting a Tupolev Tu-142 of Indian Navy. Other exhibits for its interior and surroundings like a mannequin pilot, bombs, machinery etc. will be developed by the Navy. Apart from the aircraft on display, there is a small children's park and a coffee shop. }} ===[http://www.ecoparknewtown.com/ Eco Park]=== [[File:Lush_green_grass_along_the_lake.jpg|thumb|The main lake of Eco Park]] [[File:New Town skyline from Eco Park (25 February 2024).jpg|thumb|Skyline from Eco Park]] MAR, Action Area II (''bus stops: Eco Park, Prakriti Tirtha''), {{phone|+91 33 2706 4010}}. Noon–4:30PM (closed M). ₹20. Eco Park (ইকো পার্ক ''Iko Pārk'') or Prakriti Tirtha (প্রকৃতি তীর্থ ''Prakr̥ti Tīrtha'') is a 480-acre landscaped park surrounding a water body of about {{acre|100-120}}. The green space is so vast and diverse that it cannot be visited in a short trip easily, and many new attractions are coming here at a rapid pace. There are eight gates to access the park. Parking facilities available at Gate 1 and Gate 4. Activities include paddleboats, rowboats, duo cycles, birdwatching, etc. You can also ride in trackless "toy trains" to enjoy the park. The attractions within the park include: * {{see | name=Bengal Village | alt=বাংলার গ্রাম ''Bāṁlār Grām'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60276 | long=88.46632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco park-21-new town smart city-kolkata-India.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=An exhibition containing models depicting the daily life of rural [[Bengal]]. }} * {{see | name=Butterfly Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60806 | long=88.46528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Dome shaped arena for culturing butterfly WLB 0082.jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of a large dome to enclose a plant habitat consisting of different species of flowering annuals and perennials that support a large range of butterflies organised around a circular body of water. }} * {{see | name=Eco Children's Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60854 | long=88.46690 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eco Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59895 | long=88.46607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eiffel Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59422 | long=88.46653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ghum railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60795 | long=88.46708 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Darjeeling Railway (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=A dummy railway station with a toy train of the [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]]. You can get into the train to get a feeling of the Darjeeling Hills. It costs ₹10 per head for photoshoot inside the train. }} * {{see | name=Heliconia Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60688 | long=88.46546 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Herbal Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60215 | long=88.46452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Japanese Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59482 | long=88.46944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mask Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Mask Garden (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=An open-air collection of masks from various parts of the world, especially from various states of India, especially from West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Meadow Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59975 | long=88.47037 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Pakhibitan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60906 | long=88.46363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Promenade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60107 | long=88.46989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco Park Promenade (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The spine of Eco Park is a paved pathway lined with coconut trees. It is designed to enjoy the waterbody. There's a massive Solar Dome and a replica of the Eiffel Tower along the promenade. }} * {{see | name=Rabi Aranya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59646 | long=88.47135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Rose Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60353 | long=88.46899 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Walkway through the rose garden.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A long walking path with varieties of roses at both sides. }} * {{see | name=Sculpture Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60695 | long=88.46630 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Solar Dome | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6023 | long=88.46545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Solar Dome (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-06 | content=A dome-shaped structure that houses a museum about solar energy and its use in daily life. It has a guided tour with humanoid robots. The dome also houses a planetarium, marine aquarium, and an observation deck. It also has information stands on other renewable energies and also global warming, rising sea levels, and climate change. The structure itself generates a lot of solar power for the New Town area. }} * {{see | name=Seven Wonders | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60976 | long=88.46703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pyramid (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of replicas of seven world-famous monuments: the Pyramids of Giza, Christ the Redeemer, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, Petra, Colosseum and Moai Statues. Accessible from Gate 4. }} * {{see | name=Tropical Tree Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60541 | long=88.46798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Rain Forest (25 February 2024) 2.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=Contains a piece of the tropical forest of Bengal. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Aquatica | alt= | url=http://www.aquaticaindia.com/ | email= | address=Kochpukur | lat=22.562065 | long=88.465197 | directions=off Street 299; Thakdari {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 3200 7947, +91 93315 55220 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM daily | price=₹300–1,000 | wikidata=Q4782815 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=This theme water park offers visitors a cool respite from the heat and grime of city life. Aquatica has a number of rides including tremendously exciting ones like the Black Hole, the Wave Pool, Niagara Falls, surf racer, Tornado and the Aqua Dance Floor. Regular parties and fashion shows are hosted here, especially in the winter. Wide varieties of cocktails are available, as well as mocktails for sobers. }} * {{do | name=Eco Park Amphitheatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60828 | long=88.46342 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Amphitheatre eco park kolkata.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Eco Urban Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street 645, Action Area II | lat=22.61887 | long=88.4801 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A large picnic spot based around a lake, similar to Eco Park. Albeit smaller than Eco Park, the area is quieter and can provide a brief escape to the otherwise city life. Cottage rentals are available from ₹1,000. There's a tribal museum with the ticket price of ₹10 only. Red munia birds are common here, and many migrant birds come here around the lake during winter. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58275 | long=88.474056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109546936 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{do | name=Mela Ground | alt=Fairground | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57984 | long=88.46907 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Nazrul Tirtha | alt=নজরুল তীর্থ ''Najrul Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58194 | long=88.44845 | directions=Nazrul Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17118225 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A cultural and educational centre dedicated to the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The cultural centre is functioning partly as a cinema hall and open air theatre for exhibitions and performances. }} * {{do | name=New Town Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.582 | long=88.4585 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Hosts [[Durga Puja]] and trade fairs. }} * {{do | name=Ozone Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57887 | long=88.46796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59388 | long=88.46774 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Axis Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=CF Block, Action Area-IC | lat=22.5802 | long=88.4596 | directions= | phone=+91 33 32006827 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Axis Mall, New Town.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Shopping mall, restaurants, Bioscope multiplex with four screens. Restaurants include Aaheli (4F), Addiction (4F), Café Coffee Day (2F), Calcutta Retro (5F), Mehak-e-Punjab (4F). Keshariya Junction is a rail-themed multi-cuisine restaurant inside a replica of an [[rail travel in India|LHB coach]]. }} * {{buy | name=Biswa Bangla Haat | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা হাট ''Biśba Bāṁlā Hāṭ'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60982 | long=88.46452 | directions=Gate 5 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre II | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area-IID | lat=22.6232 | long=88.4503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=City center 2 newtown.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=There's Inox at third floor. Restaurants include KFC (GF, Block C), McDonald's (GF, Block A), Pizza Hut (GF, Block C), Gamma's World Cuisine (2F), Massekah (2F, Block B), The Orient (GF) and Zion Lounge (GF). }} * {{buy | name=DLF Galleria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.58172 | long=88.46052 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Down Town Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworld City, Action Area-III | lat=22.55951 | long=88.49538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-21 | content= }} * {{buy | name=HomeTown | alt=Central Mall | url=http://www.hometown.in/ | email= | address=BG Block | lat=22.5829 | long=88.4587 | directions= | phone=+91 90 07 862472 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=HomeTown - Mall - Rajarhat 2015-04-11 7085.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Misti Hub | alt=মিষ্টি হাব ''Miṣṭi Hāb'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46812 | directions=next to Gate 3 and Mask Garden | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Sonajhuri Hat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR, Action Area I | lat= | long= | directions=somewhere beneath the Axis Mall Flyover | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F–Su 5–8PM | price=No entry price | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Based on the famous Sonajhuri Hat in [[Santiniketan]]. }} ==Eat and drink== ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ccufi-fairfield-kolkata/overview | email= | address=CB Block, Action Area IC | lat=22.57905 | long=88.468475 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 4444 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,840 | wikidata=Q111861633 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lemon Tree Premier New Town Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.lemontreehotels.com/lemon-tree-premier/kolkata/new-town-kolkata | email= | address=BG 9, Action Area 1B | lat=22.581125 | long=88.461526 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6813 9900 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,460-8,410 | wikidata=Q111861628 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6937/index.en.shtml | email= | address=CF 11, Action Area IC | lat=22.57963 | long=88.4614 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4032 3333, +91 33 4032 3334 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹9,670-12,390 | wikidata=Q111402430 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pride Plaza Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.pridehotel.com/pride-plaza-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=BG Block, Action Area I | lat=22.581898 | long=88.462685 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40259999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600&ndash;₹6,800 | wikidata=Q111402431 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Swissotel | alt= | url=https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/?intid=bansko0510enexplore-hotel/reviews/explore-hotel/reviews/ | email=kolkata@swissotel.com | address=City Centre, Action Area-IID | lat=22.6223 | long=88.4499 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6626 6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59409 | long=88.46853 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR (South-East), Action Area-II | lat=22.592 | long=88.47439 | directions=opposite Eco Park | phone=+91 33 4037 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,670-9,970 | wikidata=Q111402434 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Vedic Village Spa Resort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402445 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== The {{km|10.5}} area from Kolkata Airport to Salt Lake Sector V is a free Wi-Fi zone. ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=New Town Police Station | address=New Town Rd, DJ Block, Action Area I | lat=22.57618 | long=88.47864 | phone=+91 33 23246077 }} * {{listing | name=Rajarhat Police Station | address= | lat=22.63171 | long=88.48498 | phone=+91 33 25733289 }} {{outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo||}} 0pgnwzfnxyo7ehxx3rj0dlah53a22e9 5090751 5090750 2025-07-10T12:31:19Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ 5090751 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|pgname=New Town}} [[File:Biswa Bangla Gate.jpg|thumb|Biswa Bangla Gate]] '''New Town''' (নিউটাউন ''Niuṭaun''), also called '''Rajarhat''' (রাজারহাট ''Rājārhāṭ''), is one of the newest satellite towns of [[Kolkata]] at the extreme east. It is the second IT hub of Kolkata, with the offices of TCS, Infosys, Unitech and other fintech (financial technology) companies. '''Eco Park''', one of the largest urban spaces in India, is the main tourist attraction of this district, attracting people from West Bengal and even beyond. New Town was developed in the late 1990s and is rapidly growing under the leadership of the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO). The Indian government declared New Town a "Solar City" and later a "Smart Green City". As one of the newest parts of the bustling metropolis, New Town will take you to an ultra-modern world, compared to the "Old Town" of [[Kolkata/North|North Kolkata]]. A planned community, New Town is surrounded by [[Kolkata/East|Bidhannagar]] and the [[Kolkata/Northern Suburbs|Northern Suburbs]] at the west, the East Kolkata Wetlands at the south, and the vast rural areas of [[North 24 Parganas|North]] and [[South 24 Parganas]] at north and east respectively. The town is divided into three action areas: I, II and III. Action Area I (AA I) is the main area of the town, and it has various houses, housing complexes, shopping malls, and parks. The parks include children's parks, seniors' parks (like Swapna Bhor), and also parks themed on famous Bengali films (like Apur Sansar, Sonar Kella). The eastern end of AA I is home to various tech complexes. Action Area II (AA II) is surrounded by several tech complexes, with tech parks like Ecospace, FinTech Hub, Synthesis and Bengal Silicon Valley. It also has housing complexes at the northern end, between Mangaldeep and Owl junctions. Eco Park is in AA II. Action Area III (AA III) is the least-developed area, with a mix of both urban and rural areas. It is home to massive housing complexes like Uniworld City and Shapoorji Pallonji's Sukhobrishti. The eastern end has a handful but notable tech complexes of Infosys and ITC Limited. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.592|88.475|width=400|height=450|name=Map of New Town}} 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===By bus=== * {{marker|type=go|name=New Town Bus Stand|lat=22.58281|long=88.45365}} (AH Block, Action Area I) ===By car=== New Town is served by certain arterial roads to and from the township. '''Major Arterial Road''' ('''MAR''') starts from Salt Lake Sector V, then turns left at Narkelbagan More crossing, turns left again at Akankha More and finally meets at VIP Road (Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani) near Kolkata Airport. The road serves the Action Areas I and II. There are two other roads that begin from Narkelbagan More. The one next to Rabindra Tirtha (not the one next to HIDCO Bhaban) runs across Action Area III, while the one opposite Rabindra Tirtha runs across the southern parts of Action Area I before meeting at a narrower 2-lane road next to East Kolkata Wetlands. ==Get around== New Town has a unique transport infrastructure that is rare in the rest of Kolkata or even West Bengal. ===By electric car=== New Town has some charging stations for electric cars, which are very useful for the electric vehicles in West Bengal as the rest of the state has a lack of charging stations. ===By bicycle=== It has some bike paths along footpaths, and they are usually coloured in green. Bicycles are mainly useful for short trips, and for longer trips you have to opt for a bus or car. ==See== * {{see | name=Biswa Bangla Gate | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা গেট ''Biśba Bāṃlā Geṭ'' | url=https://www.biswabanglagatekolkata.in/ | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.578611 | long=88.471667 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q39087520 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=An arch monument in New Town and one of the most iconic structures in Greater Kolkata. "Biswa Bangla" literally means "World Bengal". The structure consists of a single ring supported by two parabolic arches from four sides of the Narkelbagan intersection. The ring houses a restaurant and a visitors' gallery, which are surrounded by glass. There are two staircases and an elevator to reach the gallery. Decorative paintings of luminaries have been drawn on the wall inside the ring with the outer side having a glass façade to have a view of the township. }} * {{see | name=Harinalaya | alt=হরিণালয় ''Hariṇālaẏ'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60833 | long=88.46176 | directions=opposite Eco Park Gates 5 and 6, parking space for four-wheelers at ₹50 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10AM&mdash;6PM (closed at sunsets in winter) | price=₹50 for people above 5, both cash and UPI accepted | lastedit=2024-12-12 | content=A {{acre|12.5}} mini zoo developed by HIDCO, and despite being named after deers (হরিণ ''hariṇ''), the zoo contains other animals as well. At the entrance, there's an aviary at the left and rides at the right. Rides include slides, mini jungle gyms, and swings. There's a waterbody for two large crocodiles and two hippos enclosed with fence. Other than real animals, there are images and concrete sculptures of birds. Within the zoo contains Nature's Cafe, which offers Chinese and Indian dishes along with non-alcoholic drinks. The zoo is a no-plastic zone, though you can picnic within the zoo premises. }} * {{see | name=Rabindra Tirtha | alt=রবীন্দ্র তীর্থ ''Rabīndra Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=MAR, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57905 | long=88.47338 | directions=Rabindra Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=noon–7PM | price=₹20 | wikidata=Q7278759 | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A cultural centre dedicated to the poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It houses an exhibition of Tagore’s paintings, archives, a research centre, an auditorium and dormitories for students opting to conduct their research on Tagore. Various arts festivals are arranged here, including performances. }} ===Museums and art galleries=== * {{see | name=Arts Acre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{see | name=Fanattic Sports Museum | alt=FSM | url=http://fanatticsportsmuseum.com/ | email= | address=Ecospace Business Park, Action Area II | lat=22.585346 | long=88.48979 | directions=Ecospace {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=11AM–7PM (closed on M) | price=₹10 | wikidata=Q30595430 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A sports museum dedicated to various types of sports and the first of its kind in West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Kolkata Museum of Modern Art | alt=KMOMA | url=http://kmomamuseum.org/index.html | email= | address= | lat=22.61273 | long=88.46571 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q16893599 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A modern art museum. }} * {{see | name=Mother's Wax Museum | alt= | url=http://www.motherswaxmuseum.in/ | email= | address=Synthesis Business Park, MAR, Action Area II | lat=22.5999 | long=88.472 | directions=Prakriti Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 2324 7243 | tollfree= | hours=Noon-3:30PM | price=150 | wikidata=Q22079942 | lastedit=2022-07-06 | content=The Mother's Wax Museum consists of nine sections containing 18 to 19 wax models of eminent personalities. It contains models of Maradona, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Manna Dey, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, etc. }} * {{see | name=Naval Aircraft Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=DJ Block, Narkelbagan, Action Area I | lat=22.57704 | long=88.47818 | directions=New Town Police Station {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q108084678 | lastedit=2023-01-10 | content=A military aviation museum built by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) and is exhibiting a Tupolev Tu-142 of Indian Navy. Other exhibits for its interior and surroundings like a mannequin pilot, bombs, machinery etc. will be developed by the Navy. Apart from the aircraft on display, there is a small children's park and a coffee shop. }} ===[http://www.ecoparknewtown.com/ Eco Park]=== [[File:Lush_green_grass_along_the_lake.jpg|thumb|The main lake of Eco Park]] [[File:New Town skyline from Eco Park (25 February 2024).jpg|thumb|Skyline from Eco Park]] MAR, Action Area II (''bus stops: Eco Park, Prakriti Tirtha''), {{phone|+91 33 2706 4010}}. Noon–4:30PM (closed M). ₹20. Eco Park (ইকো পার্ক ''Iko Pārk'') or Prakriti Tirtha (প্রকৃতি তীর্থ ''Prakr̥ti Tīrtha'') is a 480-acre landscaped park surrounding a water body of about {{acre|100-120}}. The green space is so vast and diverse that it cannot be visited in a short trip easily, and many new attractions are coming here at a rapid pace. There are eight gates to access the park. Parking facilities available at Gate 1 and Gate 4. Activities include paddleboats, rowboats, duo cycles, birdwatching, etc. You can also ride in trackless "toy trains" to enjoy the park. The attractions within the park include: * {{see | name=Bengal Village | alt=বাংলার গ্রাম ''Bāṁlār Grām'' | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60276 | long=88.46632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco park-21-new town smart city-kolkata-India.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=An exhibition containing models depicting the daily life of rural [[Bengal]]. }} * {{see | name=Butterfly Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60806 | long=88.46528 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Dome shaped arena for culturing butterfly WLB 0082.jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of a large dome to enclose a plant habitat consisting of different species of flowering annuals and perennials that support a large range of butterflies organised around a circular body of water. }} * {{see | name=Eco Children's Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60854 | long=88.46690 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eco Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59895 | long=88.46607 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Eiffel Tower | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59422 | long=88.46653 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Ghum railway station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60795 | long=88.46708 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Darjeeling Railway (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=A dummy railway station with a toy train of the [[Darjeeling Himalayan Railway]]. You can get into the train to get a feeling of the Darjeeling Hills. It costs ₹10 per head for photoshoot inside the train. }} * {{see | name=Heliconia Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60688 | long=88.46546 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Herbal Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60215 | long=88.46452 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Japanese Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59482 | long=88.46944 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mask Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46735 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Mask Garden (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=An open-air collection of masks from various parts of the world, especially from various states of India, especially from West Bengal. }} * {{see | name=Meadow Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59975 | long=88.47037 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Pakhibitan | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60906 | long=88.46363 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Promenade | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60107 | long=88.46989 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Eco Park Promenade (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=The spine of Eco Park is a paved pathway lined with coconut trees. It is designed to enjoy the waterbody. There's a massive Solar Dome and a replica of the Eiffel Tower along the promenade. }} * {{see | name=Rabi Aranya | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.59646 | long=88.47135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Rose Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60353 | long=88.46899 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Walkway through the rose garden.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=A long walking path with varieties of roses at both sides. }} * {{see | name=Sculpture Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60695 | long=88.46630 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{see | name=Solar Dome | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.6023 | long=88.46545 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Solar Dome (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-06 | content=A dome-shaped structure that houses a museum about solar energy and its use in daily life. It has a guided tour with humanoid robots. The dome also houses a planetarium, marine aquarium, and an observation deck. It also has information stands on other renewable energies and also global warming, rising sea levels, and climate change. The structure itself generates a lot of solar power for the New Town area. }} * {{see | name=Seven Wonders | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60976 | long=88.46703 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Pyramid (25 February 2024).jpg | lastedit=2024-02-26 | content=It consists of replicas of seven world-famous monuments: the Pyramids of Giza, Christ the Redeemer, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, Petra, Colosseum and Moai Statues. Accessible from Gate 4. }} * {{see | name=Tropical Tree Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.60541 | long=88.46798 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Rain Forest (25 February 2024) 2.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content=Contains a piece of the tropical forest of Bengal. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Aquatica | alt= | url=http://www.aquaticaindia.com/ | email= | address=Kochpukur | lat=22.562065 | long=88.465197 | directions=off Street 299; Thakdari {{rint|bus}} | phone=+91 33 3200 7947, +91 93315 55220 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM daily | price=₹300–1,000 | wikidata=Q4782815 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=This theme water park offers visitors a cool respite from the heat and grime of city life. Aquatica has a number of rides including tremendously exciting ones like the Black Hole, the Wave Pool, Niagara Falls, surf racer, Tornado and the Aqua Dance Floor. Regular parties and fashion shows are hosted here, especially in the winter. Wide varieties of cocktails are available, as well as mocktails for sobers. }} * {{do | name=Eco Park Amphitheatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60828 | long=88.46342 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Amphitheatre eco park kolkata.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Eco Urban Village | alt= | url= | email= | address=Street 645, Action Area II | lat=22.61887 | long=88.4801 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=A large picnic spot based around a lake, similar to Eco Park. Albeit smaller than Eco Park, the area is quieter and can provide a brief escape to the otherwise city life. Cottage rentals are available from ₹1,000. There's a tribal museum with the ticket price of ₹10 only. Red munia birds are common here, and many migrant birds come here around the lake during winter. }} * {{do | name=Biswa Bangla Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58275 | long=88.474056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q109546936 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content= }} * {{do | name=Mela Ground | alt=Fairground | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57984 | long=88.46907 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Nazrul Tirtha | alt=নজরুল তীর্থ ''Najrul Tīrtha'' | url= | email= | address=Action Area I | lat=22.58194 | long=88.44845 | directions=Nazrul Tirtha {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17118225 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=A cultural and educational centre dedicated to the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The cultural centre is functioning partly as a cinema hall and open air theatre for exhibitions and performances. }} * {{do | name=New Town Square | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.582 | long=88.4585 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Hosts [[Durga Puja]] and trade fairs. }} * {{do | name=Ozone Convention Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.57887 | long=88.46796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{do | name=Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59388 | long=88.46774 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Axis Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=CF Block, Action Area-IC | lat=22.5802 | long=88.4596 | directions= | phone=+91 33 32006827 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Axis Mall, New Town.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=Shopping mall, restaurants, Bioscope multiplex with four screens. Restaurants include Aaheli (4F), Addiction (4F), Café Coffee Day (2F), Calcutta Retro (5F), Mehak-e-Punjab (4F). Keshariya Junction is a rail-themed multi-cuisine restaurant inside a replica of an [[rail travel in India|LHB coach]]. }} * {{buy | name=Biswa Bangla Haat | alt=বিশ্ব বাংলা হাট ''Biśba Bāṁlā Hāṭ'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60982 | long=88.46452 | directions=Gate 5 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=City Centre II | alt= | url= | email= | address=Action Area-IID | lat=22.6232 | long=88.4503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=City center 2 newtown.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content=There's Inox at third floor. Restaurants include KFC (GF, Block C), McDonald's (GF, Block A), Pizza Hut (GF, Block C), Gamma's World Cuisine (2F), Massekah (2F, Block B), The Orient (GF) and Zion Lounge (GF). }} * {{buy | name=DLF Galleria | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.58172 | long=88.46052 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Down Town Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address=Uniworld City, Action Area-III | lat=22.55951 | long=88.49538 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-07-21 | content= }} * {{buy | name=HomeTown | alt=Central Mall | url=http://www.hometown.in/ | email= | address=BG Block | lat=22.5829 | long=88.4587 | directions= | phone=+91 90 07 862472 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=HomeTown - Mall - Rajarhat 2015-04-11 7085.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Misti Hub | alt=মিষ্টি হাব ''Miṣṭi Hāb'' | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.60752 | long=88.46812 | directions=next to Gate 3 and Mask Garden | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Sonajhuri Hat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR, Action Area I | lat= | long= | directions=somewhere beneath the Axis Mall Flyover | phone= | tollfree= | hours=F–Su 5–8PM | price=No entry price | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-02-07 | content=Based on the famous Sonajhuri Hat in [[Santiniketan]]. }} ==Eat and drink== ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000–5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ccufi-fairfield-kolkata/overview | email= | address=CB Block, Action Area IC | lat=22.57905 | long=88.468475 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6666 4444 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,840 | wikidata=Q111861633 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lemon Tree Premier New Town Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.lemontreehotels.com/lemon-tree-premier/kolkata/new-town-kolkata | email= | address=BG 9, Action Area 1B | lat=22.581125 | long=88.461526 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6813 9900 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,460-8,410 | wikidata=Q111861628 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences | alt= | url=https://all.accor.com/hotel/6937/index.en.shtml | email= | address=CF 11, Action Area IC | lat=22.57963 | long=88.4614 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4032 3333, +91 33 4032 3334 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹9,670-12,390 | wikidata=Q111402430 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Pride Plaza Hotel Kolkata | alt= | url=https://www.pridehotel.com/pride-plaza-hotel-kolkata/ | email= | address=BG Block, Action Area I | lat=22.581898 | long=88.462685 | directions= | phone=+91 33 40259999 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹5,600&ndash;₹6,800 | wikidata=Q111402431 | lastedit=2024-12-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Swissotel | alt= | url=https://www.swissotel.com/hotels/kolkata/?intid=bansko0510enexplore-hotel/reviews/explore-hotel/reviews/ | email=kolkata@swissotel.com | address=City Centre, Action Area-IID | lat=22.6223 | long=88.4499 | directions= | phone=+91 33 6626 6666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-13 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Taal Kutir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Eco Park | lat=22.59409 | long=88.46853 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Vedic Village Spa Resort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402445 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat | alt= | url= | email= | address=MAR (South-East), Action Area-II | lat=22.592 | long=88.47439 | directions=opposite Eco Park | phone=+91 33 4037 1234 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹7,670-9,970 | wikidata=Q111402434 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Connect== The {{km|10.5}} area from Kolkata Airport to Salt Lake Sector V is a free Wi-Fi zone. ==Cope== ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=New Town Police Station | address=New Town Rd, DJ Block, Action Area I | lat=22.57618 | long=88.47864 | phone=+91 33 23246077 }} * {{listing | name=Rajarhat Police Station | address= | lat=22.63171 | long=88.48498 | phone=+91 33 25733289 }} {{outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo||}} 394rwz0fddai4z9gv75m0t8cv061g3a 0 195453 5090754 5089479 2025-07-10T12:35:56Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for Kenilworth Hotel 5090754 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Kolkata Esplanade banner.jpg|pgname=Esplanade}} [[File:Esplanade Row East.jpg|thumb|Colonial-era buildings at Esplanade Row East]] '''Esplanade''' (এসপ্ল্যানেড ''Esplyāneḍ'') or '''Dharmatala''' (ধর্মতলা ''Dharmatalā'') is the heart of [[Kolkata]], with the mix of some colonial-era buildings with newer ones. It is the new central business district (CBD) of Kolkata and the place of choice for many large business houses, especially at Chowringhee Road (Jawaharlal Nehru Road) and Park Street (Mother Teresa Sarani). When the British started expanding their settlement outside [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh|B. B. D. Bagh]] in the mid-18th century, it was one of the first expansions. During the early British developments around the area, they built huge bungalows and houses all along the northern end of Chowringhee Rd. However, only a few of them still remains, including The Oberoi Grand, the Janbazar Building, the Chowringhee Mansions, the Asiatic Society and the majestic Indian Museum. ==Understand== [[File:Shaheed Minar Sd2175.jpg|thumb|Shaheed Minar]] This district covers the central areas of Kolkata, east of [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh|B. B. D. Bagh]] and the [[Kolkata/Maidan|Maidan]], covering the area around AJC Bose Rd (Lower Circular Rd), Chowringhee Road (Jawaharlal Nehru Road), Esplanade Row East (Sido Kanhu Dahar), Mayo Road, and Park Street (Mother Teresa Sarani). The area consists of neighbourhoods like Chowringhee, Entally, Esplanade, and Janbazar. ===Roads=== * '''Chowringhee Road''' (চৌরঙ্গী রোড ''Chauraṅgī Roḍ''), officially '''Jawaharlal Nehru Road''' (জওহরলাল নেহেরু রোড ''Jaoharlāl Neheru Roḍ''), runs north-south from the junction with Esplanade Row East and Central Avenue (Dorina Crossing) to the junction with AJC Bose Road and Ashutosh Mukherjee Road (Exide More). It is lined up with trees at one side and high-rise buildings at the other, and most of the buildings are major commercial establishments of Kolkata. * '''Park Street''' (পার্ক স্ট্রিট ''Pārk Sṭriṭ''), officially '''Mother Teresa Sarani''' (মাদার টেরিজা সরণি ''Mādār Ṭerijā Saraṇi''), runs west-east from Chowringhee Road to AJC Bose Road, and eventually to [[Kolkata/South|Park Circus]]. It is Kolkata's foremost dining area with many restaurants and pubs, which also showcases fashionable clothes, books from all over the world and so on. Park Street has retained the British spirit and is so well decorated during Christmas and New Year as if it is still part of the [[British Empire]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.557|88.362|height=450|width=450|zoom=14|name=Map of Esplanade}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} {{Mapmask|22.5552,88.3503|22.5477,88.3482|22.5416,88.3473|22.5410,88.3593|22.5467,88.3614|22.5464,88.3617|22.5457,88.3627|22.5455,88.3629|22.5435,88.3657|22.5431,88.3658|22.5429,88.3661|22.5430,88.3665|22.5434,88.3667|22.5437,88.3675|22.5437,88.3676|22.5449,88.3706|22.5453,88.3706|22.5469,88.3708|22.5505,88.3712|22.5510,88.3712|22.5522,88.3716|22.5520,88.3724|22.5517,88.3724|22.5516,88.3731|22.5517,88.3734|22.5514,88.3744|22.5513,88.3751|22.5571,88.3756|22.5580,88.3757|22.5589,88.3756|22.5596,88.3755|22.5598,88.3759|22.5606,88.3761|22.5614,88.3767|22.5616,88.3769|22.5615,88.3776|22.5616,88.3778|22.5630,88.3781|22.5631,88.3773|22.5634,88.3766|22.5635,88.3759|22.5633,88.3750|22.5633,88.3746|22.5632,88.3734|22.5633,88.3732|22.5639,88.3726|22.5646,88.3717|22.5652,88.3703|22.5657,88.3689|22.5651,88.3687|22.5650,88.3687|22.5638,88.3683|22.5619,88.3675|22.5606,88.3669|22.5607,88.3655|22.5608,88.3647|22.5606,88.3634|22.5603,88.3623|22.5605,88.3623|22.5619,88.3626|22.5620,88.3624|22.5625,88.3625|22.5625,88.3626|22.5634,88.3629|22.5634,88.3630|22.5644,88.3637|22.5650,88.3638|22.5662,88.3641|22.5663,88.3634|22.5666,88.3627|22.5669,88.3623|22.5672,88.3621|22.5680,88.3612|22.5683,88.3603|22.5686,88.3604|22.5709,88.3614|22.5719,88.3598|22.5724,88.3587|22.5705,88.3580|22.5710,88.3562|22.5710,88.3562|22.5720,88.3531|22.5722,88.3526|22.5726,88.3513|22.5727,88.3509|22.5671,88.3488|22.5661,88.3485|22.5648,88.3481|22.5647,88.3477|22.5640,88.3466|22.5637,88.3468|22.5630,88.3470|22.5626,88.3470|22.5620,88.3468|22.5559,88.3446|22.5555,88.3443|22.5552,88.3443|22.5552,88.3446|22.5553,88.3448|22.5552,88.3478|22.5551,88.3489|22.5553,88.3495|22.5552,88.3503}} ===By bus=== {{marker|type=go|name=Esplanade Bus Terminus|lat=22.56303|long=88.34997|wikidata=Q124681311}} also serves several city bus routes, not just the long-distance ones. It is the most obvious way to get here, though there are bus stops to alight at specific destinations within the district. ===By metro=== Esplanade is served by metrro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}} and {{rint|kolkata|2}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful to get here from northern and southern parts of the city, while Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful to get here from [[Howrah]]. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is the fastest way to connect the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah, avoiding the congestion at the Howrah Bridge and Vidyasagar Setu. === By tram === There are only two active routes from {{marker|type=go|name=Esplanade Tram Terminus|lat=22.565|long=88.35|image=Esplanade tram terminus.jpg}}, one from [[Kolkata/North|Shyambazar]], and another from [[Kolkata/North|Gariahat]]. Despite being eco-friendly, this is not the most practical way to get here, especially in peak hours when the roads are congested. ==See== [[File:The 42 from Maidan.jpg|thumb|The 42]] [[File:Metropolitan Building (Kolkata).jpg|thumb|Metropolitan Building]] * {{see | name=The 42 | alt=দ্য ফোরটি-টু ''Dya Phōrṭi-ṭu'' | url=http://www.the42.in/ | email= | address=42B, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.54835 | long=88.34975 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7711913 | lastedit=2023-04-14 | content=A {{m|260}} high box-shaped apartment building, and the tallest building of the city. }} * {{see | name=Bow Barracks | alt=বো ব্যারাক ''Bo Byārāk'' | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4950610 | lastedit=2022-12-13 | content=A small hub of mainly Anglo-Indian population who have lived here for generations. According to a legend, Bow Barracks was a garrison's mess built for the army during World War I. When the soldiers left India, they handed over the flats to the Anglo-Indians who took them on rent. Bow Barracks is also famous for its Christmas celebration. }} * {{see | name=Esplanade Mansions | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Esplanade Row East | lat=22.566389 | long=88.348889 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68470889 | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=One of the buildings previously owned by Jewish businessman David Elias Ezra. The residential building was built in the Art Nouveau architecture style. As of 2022, it is owned by the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) and houses commercial, railways and other government offices. }} * {{see | name=House of Henry Louis Vivian Derozio | alt= | url= | email= | address=155A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.559764 | long=88.366676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68597114 | lastedit=2022-11-29 | content=Derozio was a young social reformer and the founder of the Young Bengal group. }} * {{see | name=Metropolitan Building | alt=Whiteways and Laidlaw Building | url=http://www.wmf.org/project/metropolitan-building | email= | address=140, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5637 | long=88.3516 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6825020 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=It was a famous department store in Kolkata during the British period. This neo-baroque emporium—with domes, a clock tower and arched recessed windows—exemplifies fashionable shopping during the British Raj. }} * {{see | name=Shaheed Minar | alt=শহীদ মিনার ''Śahīd Minār'', former name: Ochterlony Monument | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.56286 | long=88.34923 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7461557 | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Locally known as simply "Monument", the British colonial monument is 48 meters high. It is rededicated to the Indian freedom activists in 1969 and the monument was renamed Shaheed Minar. }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indian Musium, Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Courtyard of the Indian Museum]] * {{see | name=Baker Hostel | alt=বেকার হোস্টেল ''Bekār Hosṭel'' | url= | email= | address=8, Smith Ln | lat=22.558854 | long=88.358986 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q90092840 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A historical building founded in 1910 by Edward Norman Baker as a government hostel for the male students of Maulana Azad College. The rooms 23 and 24 of the building are converted into a museum in honour of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father and the first president of [[Bangladesh]]. Room no. 24 (Bangabandhu Memorial Room) contains Rahman's used bed, table and chair. There is a small library where his books are arranged. }} * {{see | name=Currency Building | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Surendra Mohan Ghosh Sarani | lat=22.570556 | long=88.350278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56245193 | lastedit=2022-12-02 | content=A three-story Italianate structure, consisting of floors covered by marble and Chunar sandstone. During its use as a currency office, the central hall contained the exchange counters for banknotes, gold, silver, and small change. In 1994, authorities decided to raze the building due to structural deterioration. However, the building was saved from being completely demolished and was renovated between 2005 and 2019. On 11 January 2020, the building was formally dedicated as a public museum at its reopening ceremony. }} * {{see | name=Indian Museum | alt= | url=http://www.indianmuseumkolkata.org/ | email=indianmuseumkolkata@gmail.com | address=27, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.558056 | long=88.350833 | directions=metro: {{station|Park Street|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone=+91 33 2249 5699 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 249 5696 | hours=closed on Mondays | price=Admission: ₹10 (for Indian citizens) ₹150 (for foreign citizens) | wikidata=Q1364900 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=Established in 1814, this was the first such museum in Asia. Among its famous collection is the urn that held the ashes of the Buddha (though this is generally not on display), a Pillar of Ashoka (the three-lion symbol which became the official emblem of the Republic of India) and numerous rare antiques. A varied collection of exhibits include unique fossils, Buddhist Gandhara art and an Egyptian mummy. The Indian Museum has a library of excellent historical value, with a special focus on the British Raj and Kolkata. }} * {{see | name=Smaranika Tram Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=6, Esplanade Row E | lat=22.56525 | long=88.34995 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|blue|green}}; tram: {{station|Esplanade|tram}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=3PM–8PM (closed Th) | price=₹5 | wikidata=Q56682452 | lastedit=2024-03-19 | content=A museum housed inside a decommissioned tram, showcasing the 150-year-old heritage of the tram system in Kolkata. There's a cafeteria in the museum which serves basic tea and coffee. The cafeteria is considered a great place for ''adda''... }} ===Religious attractions=== [[File:Kolkata Tipu Sultan's Mosque3.jpg|thumb|Tipu Sultan Mosque]] * {{see | name=Bauddha Dharmankur Sabha | alt= | url= | email= | address=1 Buddhist Temple St | lat=22.569523 | long=88.356614 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2211 7138 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65080479 | content=A Buddhist monastery established in 1892 and run by the Bengal Buddhist Association. The distinct red building mostly consists of a school and a guest house. There is a very small Buddhist shrine tucked away on the 1st floor. }} * {{see | name=Beth-El Synagogue | alt=বেথ এল সিনাগগ | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q40670133 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content= }} * {{see | name=Carey Baptist Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB Ganguly St, Bowbazar | lat=22.57125 | long=88.35512 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2236 7254 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q66313056 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content= }} * {{see | name=Church of the Lord Jesus | alt=Prabhu Jisur Girja; প্রভু যীশুর গির্জা | url= | email= | address=Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Rd, Taltala | lat=22.558511 | long=88.357743 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3585996 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Formerly a Church of Scotland Presbyterian, the Catholic church is a unique one in the city with most of religious services are done in Bengali. }} * {{see | name=Firinghi Kalibari | alt=ফিরিঙ্গি কালীবাড়ি ''Phiriṅgi Kālībāṛi'' | url= | email= | address=244, BB Ganguly St, Bowbazar | lat=22.57025 | long=88.35898 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5452082 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=An old Kali temple, said to be 500 years old. The temple is called "Firinghi Kalibari" since Portuguese-born folk singer Anthony Firingee used to come in the temple. Here Goddess Kali is worshipped as "Shri Shri Siddheshwari Kalimata Thakurani". }} * {{see | name=Lower Circular Road Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.5478 | long=88.3637 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19893393 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mother Teresa’s tomb | alt=Mother House | url=http://motherteresa.org/03_learn/pilgrimage-to-Mother-Teresa-tomb.html | email= | address=54A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5531 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2217 5267 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-03 | content=The Missionaries of Charity is a new order formed in 1950 by Mother Teresa. Their vow to give wholehearted and free service to the poorest of the poor was put into action with the setting up of several homes. Visit Mother Teresa’s tomb at the Mother House, Nirmal Hriday (home for the dying), Shanti Nagar (for lepers) and Nirmala Shishu Bhavan (the children’s home). }} * {{see | name=South Park Street cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park St | lat=22.546568 | long=88.36039 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2972549 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=The final resting place for early British traders and settlers. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan Mosque | alt=টিপু সুলতান মসজিদ ''Ṭipu Sultān Masjid''| url= | email= | address=185, Lenin Sarani | lat=22.5653 | long=88.3518 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tipu Sultan Mosque | image=Kolkata Tipu Sultan's Mosque3.jpg | wikidata=Q3349172 | content=Built in 1832 by Prince Ghulam Mohammed, the youngest son of Tipu Sultan. People from all sections of society and religions are allowed to visit and take pictures of this historical premise. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Curzon Park | alt=Surendranath Park | url= | email= | address=Rashmoni Ave | lat=22.5649 | long=88.3498 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68476643 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content= }} * {{do | name=Indira Gandhi Sarani | alt=Red Road | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55901 | long=88.34577 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24943898 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=A road running from Raj Bhavan to Fort William West Gate, surrounded by greenery. The road is known for a large parade on Republic Day (26 January) and the [[Durga Puja|Durga Puja Carnival]]. }} * {{do | name=Jyoti Cinema | alt= | url= | email= | address=32/1, Lenin Sarani | lat=22.5636 | long=88.3535 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6319406 | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=One of the most popular and oldest single-screen movie theatres of Kolkata. Hindi films and English Hollywood films used to be screened regularly. The theatre had a steady audience for its comfortable seating, good screen quality and stereophonic sound. }} * {{do | name=Metro Cinema | alt= | url=https://kolktafatafat.com/ | email= | address=8, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5641 | long=88.3494 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6824536 | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=A uniplex cinema hall and a heritage building with Art Deco architecture. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française du Bengale | alt= | url=http://bengale.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Park Mansions, 57A Park St | lat=22.55251 | long=88.35322 | directions=upon arriving at Park Mansions, enter the gate facing Park St at Mirza Ghalib St-Park St crossing | phone=+91 33 4006 4801 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-6PM (closed Su) | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The French language school in Kolkata, promoting the study of French and encouraging international cultural exchange and relations. }} * {{listing | name=The Asiatic Society | alt= | url=https://www.asiaticsocietykolkata.org/ | email= | address=1, Park St | lat=22.554913 | long=88.351135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q374902 | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Max Mueller Bhavan Kolkata | alt=Goethe-Institut | url=https://goethe.de/kolkata | email= | address=Gate 4, Park Mansions, 57A Park St | lat=22.55315 | long=88.35354 | directions=upon arriving at Park Mansions, take Mirza Ghalib St and enter the leftmost gate | phone=+91 33 2264 6602 | tollfree= | hours=9AM-6PM (closed Su) | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The German language school in Kolkata, promoting the study of German and encouraging international cultural exchange and relations. }} ==Buy== [[File:India - Kolkata Hogg market - 3366.jpg|thumb|Meat shops at New Market]] The Esplanade area is the central marketplace for the people of Kolkata. There are shops ranging from computer peripherals to paint brushes and accessories, from cloth merchants to "foreign" (ফরেন ''pharen'') goods. There are cinemas and restaurants. Major chain retailers include '''[https://www.pantaloons.com/ Pantaloons]''' (22, Camac St). * {{buy | name=Dr B. C. Roy Market | alt=Maidan Market, Bidhan Market | url= | email= | address=Dufferin Rd | lat=22.56218 | long=88.35053 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-28 | content=It has garments, sports goods and other shops. }} *{{buy | name=Eagle | url= | email= | address=12/2 Lindsay St | lat=22.5594257 | long=88.3527538 | directions=in front on New Market | phone=+91 33 98 023 6663 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A good place to pick up Indian art films. }} * {{buy | name=Earthcare Books | alt= | url= | email= | address=10 Middleton St | lat=22.54942 | long=88.35047| directions=Maidan metro station | phone=+91 33 2229-6551 | hours= | price=| content=A wonderful independent bookstore tucked away in an alley leading from Middleton St. As the name suggests, the bookstore specializes in environmental titles but also has a wide range of local subjects and poetry. }} * {{buy | name=Emami Shoppers' City | alt= | url= |email= | address=3 Lord Sinha Rd | lat=22.5445 | long=88.3487 | directions= |phone=+91 33 2282 0675| fax= | hours= | price= | content=Coffee shops, bookshop, designer wear, toy shops, boutiques, footwear stores, electronic stores, discotheque, beauty salons, gift shops, game parlours, multiplex }} * {{buy | name=Entally Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=58, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.55877 | long=88.36642 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-08 | content=One of the old markets in Kolkata. Shops sell ready-made garments, vegetables, groceries, textiles, margarine, fish and fruits. This market was once famously known for its dairy product shops that provided high quality dairy items such as paneer, ghee, yogurt, condensed milk, cheese and butter. }} * {{buy | name=Handicrafts | alt=Between Sudder St and Surendranath Banerjee Road | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55811 | long=88.35272 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has several shops selling handicrafts. The largest is at the corner of Surendranath Banerjee Road. }} * {{buy | name=Metro Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Ho Chi Minh Sarani | lat=22.5473 | long=88.3488 | directions=beside Tata Centre, near to Maidan metro station| phone=+91 33 30525473, +91 33 30525474, +91 33 22883802 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Locally manufactured readymade clothes. Many shops deal only in imported garments, mostly from Bangkok. The latest footwear and lingerie. Good parking facility. }} * {{buy | name=Mirza Ghalib Street | alt=Free School Street | url= | address= | lat=22.55829 | long=88.35481| directions= | phone= | hours= | price= | content=It is famous for its second-hand bookshops and second-hand record stalls. Rummaging through the LPs for sale on the street, one may find real gems from the jazz age. }} * {{buy | name=New Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bertram St, Lenin Sarani | lat=22.5607 | long=88.3532 | directions=E of Lindsay Street {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M–F 10:30AM–7:30PM, S 10:30AM–2:30PM | price= | wikidata=Q7010004 | lastedit=2023-01-24 | content=One of the oldest surviving markets in the city. Opened in 1874, it was named Sir Stuart Hogg Market after the commissioner Sir Stuart Hogg and it is still locally known as such. Although the beautiful fountain and benches at the market no longer exist, its popularity has not waned and the beautiful Gothic clock tower recalls the British heritage of the market. New Market is a good place to sample Indian sweet delicacies and generally soak up the atmosphere of Kolkata. There are also a few handicraft stalls inside. The market is in a large red brick building on Lindsay Street (the road parallel Sudder Street to the north). It has got over 2,000 stalls and is a bargain hunter's delight. The shops are arranged merchandise-wise. It is supposed to be the ultimate marketing experience in Kolkata. }} * {{buy | name=Oxford Book Store | alt= | url=http://www.oxfordbookstore.com | email= | address=15 Park St | lat=22.55449 | long=88.35125 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2229 5455 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large and well-organised bookstore. Good selection of books on India and by Indian writers. Discount books and cafe (Cha Bar, see [[#Drink|Drink]] section) on the second floor. }} * {{buy | name=Shree Ram Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.55863 | long=88.35084 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10:00-20:00 from Tuesday to Saturday and from 13:00 - 20:00. on Mondays. Sunday holiday. | price= | content=Full of garment shops. }} * {{buy | name=Treasure Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55911 | long=88.35269 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M 1PM-8PM, Tu-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Vardaan Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=25-A, Camac St | lat=22.5483 | long=88.3536 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22812724, +91 33 22874082 | fax=| hours= | price= | content=Forerunner of today's large shopping malls, it was the earliest air-conditioned market. Little shops and stalls line the walls of this mall selling shoes, handbags, toys, saris, salwar suits and western wear for ladies, shirts, tee shirts and trousers for men and children's clothes for all ages, chocolates and snacks. }} * {{buy | name=Westside | alt= | url=http://www.mywestside.com/webpages/innerpages/storedetail.aspx?Id=7 | email=mywestside@trent-tata.com | address=Block D22 Camac St | lat=22.5468 | long=88.3531 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22817312 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | content=The Westside stores have numerous departments to meet the varied shopping needs of customers. These include menswear, women’s wear, kid’s wear, footwear, cosmetics, perfumes and handbags, household accessories, lingerie, and gifts. Fashionable goods are priced a little on the higher side. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Jimmy's Kitchen | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/1A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.544184 | long=88.360276 | directions=AJC Bose Rd-Shakespeare Sarani crossing | phone=+91 33 2290 7139 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese food. Drinks available. Popular items: Thai soup, noodles, lung fung soup, prawn, crispy chilli chicken, roast pork chilli, sweet corn soup. Jimmy's Kitchen has two branches: 1. 36F Ruby Hospital Road, 2. 14D, Lindsay Street. }} * {{eat | name=Jyoti Vihar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ho Chi Minh Sarani | lat=22.54708 | long=88.35059 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2282 9791 | hours= | price= | content=Offers clean and tasty South Indian food. It is completely vegetarian. It is on the same street as the US Consulate. }} * {{eat | name=Kabab-e-Que | alt=The Astor | url=http://www.astorkolkata.com/restnbars.php | email= | address=15 Shakespeare Sarani | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Astor Hotel | phone=+91-33 22829957-58 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They serve Indian and continental cuisine, but what has made this outlet famous is the variety of kababs that goes wonderfully well with drinks. }} *{{eat |name=Khalsa |alt=|url=|email=|address=Madge Ln |lat=|long=|directions=on left side when entering Madge Ln, from Sudder St|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2019-02-10|content=offers excellent and cheap Punjabi food. }} *{{eat | name=Mission Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=20 Ganesh Chandra Ave | lat=22.5679 | long=88.3558 | directions= | phone= | hours= | price=| content=Vegetarian fast food spot. Dosa, chaats and curry are served at high tables. The cafe is known for its chole bhature, a chickpea dish served in a phuchka shell. Turnover is fast here, not even stools to sit on, but it is nonetheless tasty. }} * {{eat | name=Nizam's | alt=নিজামস ''Nijāms'' | url= | email= | address=23/24 Hogg St | lat=22.5617 | long=88.3536 | directions=junction of Hogg St and Corporation Pl | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kolkata 2024 random Moments (13).jpg | lastedit=2025-02-21 | content=Opened in 1932, the restaurant is known for the "kathi kebab roll". The roll initially became popular among the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh|B. B. D. Bagh]] officers during lunch time, then became an iconic food of Kolkata. It also serves a special potato roll named after Indian actor Amitabh Bachchan. It has a separate beef counter that serves beef kebab, bhuna, chaap, biryani and khiri (cow udder). }} ===Bowbazar=== * {{eat | name=Bhim Chandra Nag | alt=ভীম চন্দ্র নাগ ''Bhīm Candra Nāg'' | url= | email= | address=5, Nirmal Chandra St | lat=22.568681 | long=88.360246 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2212 0465, +91 33 2269 7908 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Bhim Chandra Nag sweet shop at Bowbazar, Kolkata, WB.jpg | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=The 200-year-old shop is famous for sandesh. It is the inventor of ''leḍikeni'' (লেডিকেনি), named after the wife of Lord Canning, the then-Viceroy of India. }} * {{eat | name=Naba Krishna Guin | alt=নব কৃষ্ণ গুঁই ''Naba Kr̥ṣṇa Gũi'' | url= | email= | address=9B, Nirmal Chandra St | lat=22.56862 | long=88.36022 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 200-year-old traditional sweet shop is famous for its fried sweets (ভাজা মিষ্টি ''bhājā miṣṭi''). }} ===Chittaranjan Avenue and Chowringhee Road=== * {{eat | name=Aheli | alt= | url= | email=| address=Peerless Inn Hotel, 12, Chowringhee Rd | lat= | long= | directions=| phone=+91 33 2228-0301, +91 33 4400-3900 |fax=| hours= | price=| content=Authentic Bengali food, served in brass utensils in a Bengali marriage environment. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Anadi Cabin | alt=অনাদি কেবিন ''Anādi Kebin'' | url= | email= | address=9A, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.56327 | long=88.35155 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Anadi Cabin - Restaurant - 9A Chowringhee Road - Kolkata 2015-01-30 5705.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for Mughlai paratha (মোগলাই পরোটা ''Moglāi Paroṭā''). }} * {{eat | name=Ban Thai | alt= | url=http://www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_kolkata/dining.asp | email= | address=Oberoi Grand, 15 Chowringhee Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2249-2323 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 7-11:30PM, Sa Su 12:30-3PM and 7-11:30PM | price=Around ₹4,000 for two people. Drinks extra | content=For an authentic taste of Thailand, visit Baan Thai. Widely recognised as the premier Thai restaurant in the country. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Chung-Wah | alt= | url= | email= | address=13A, Chittaranjan Ave | lat= 22.5671| long=88.3538 | directions=metro: {{station|Chandni Chowk|1}} | phone=+91 33 22377003 | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest and best places to sample Chinese food. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=K.C. Das Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=11A&B, Chittaranjan Ave | lat=22.56545 | long=88.3515 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=Best known for its rasgullas, which is fondly called "rosogolla" (রসগোল্লা) in Bengali. }} * {{eat | name=New Embassy | alt= | url= | email= | address=53A, Chowringhee Ln | lat= | long=| directions=right on Chowringhee Rd between Shakespeare Sarani crossing and AJC Bose Rd crossing | phone=+91 33 22827490 |fax= |hours= | price= | content=Delicious Chinese food. }} * {{eat | name=Rallis, Esplanade | alt= | url= | email= | address=10D, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.56306 | long=88.35131 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=Kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=Vegetarian restaurant known for various kinds of snacks. Chats and South Indian foods are common. Famous for non-alcoholic drinks including various kinds of milkshakes. }} * {{eat | name=Sip & Sandwich | url= | email= | address=1 Shakespeare Sarani, Theatre Road AC Market, Elgin | lat=22.54605 | long=88.34842 | directions=Chowringhee Rd corner| phone=+91 9830605145| hours= | price=| content= Vegetarian fast food }} ===Mirza Ghalib Street=== * {{eat |name=Kathleen's |address=Mirza Ghalib St |content=Pastry shop and an eclectic mix of cuisines dominated by Indian and Chinese styles. }} * {{eat | name=Mocambo | alt= | url= | email= | address=25B Mirza Ghalib St | lat=22.55301 | long=88.35307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2265 4300 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=mains ₹100-300 | content=Same owners as Peter Cat, but here the cuisine is a bit more rounded. Continental, Indian and even some Chinese dishes are served in upscale surroundings. }} *{{eat | name=Raj's Spanish Cafe |alt=| url= | email= | address=7, Sudder St | lat=22.55815 | long=88.35376 | directions=hard-to-find alleyway entrance close to intersection Mirza Ghalib St | phone=+91 33 4001 4373|tollfree=|fax=| hours=8AM-10PM | price=mains ₹100 |lastedit=2019-02-10| content=Serves breakfast and espresso-based coffees. Mexican, pizza, and other Western staples. }} ===Park Street=== * {{eat | name=Drive Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=10 Middleton St | lat=22.54938 | long=88.35041 | directions=same as Earthcare Books | phone=+91 33 2217-2247 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Meals from around ₹70 | content=An outdoor restaurant offering a wide range of good vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare (Indian/Chinese). AC area is available, the staff speaks good English and is friendly. }} * {{eat | name=Flury's | alt= | url=http://www.flurysindia.com | email= | address=18 Park St | lat=22.55417 | long=88.35112 | directions=metro: {{station|Park Street|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone=+91 33 22297664 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 7AM-8PM, M 10AM-6PM | price= | content=A popular and stylish cafe serving a good variety of baked goods and various coffees, sandwiches and entrees. A great place for breakfast or lunch. Baked goods ₹80-₹100, drinks ₹80, meals ₹600-₹1000. }} * {{eat | name=Gangaur | alt= | url= | email=| address=2 Russel St | lat= | long= | directions=| phone=+91 33 22658437| fax=| hours= | price=| content=Serves a variety of vegetarian food but is famous for its Rajasthani or Marwari food. }} * {{eat | name=Kwality | alt= | url= | email= | address=17, Park St | lat=22.5538 | long=88.3519 | directions=next to Oxford Book Shop| phone=| hours= | price=Mains from ₹100| content=Been around for years with sharply dressed waiters serving tasty tandoori and north Indian food to well-off locals. Try their Chhola-bhatura. }} * {{eat | name=Moulin Rouge | alt=not to be confused with Paris night club | url= | email= | address=31, Park St | lat= | long= | directions=| phone=+91 33 2229 9397| fax= | hours= | price=| content= }} * {{eat | name=Oasis | alt= | url= | email=| address=33, Park St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2229 9033| hours= | price=| content=Cosy restaurant with variety of foods. Has a small bar service counter with three stalls. }} * {{eat | name=Peter Cat | alt= | url= | email=| address=18, Park St | lat=22.55418 | long=88.35111| directions=metro: {{station|Park Street|city=kolkata|blue}}| phone=+91 33 2229 8841 | hours= | price=| content=Very popular for its ''chello kababs''. However, their service has not received the best reviews. Serves Indian, tandoori and Continental fare. }} * {{eat | name=Shiraz Golden Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=135, Park St | lat=22.546484 | long=88.361926 | directions=near AJC Bose Rd crossing | phone=+91 33 3099 0175 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-11:30PM | price= | content=Biryani and Mughlai food. Popular items: firni, mutton biryani, brain masala, chicken tikka, chicken reshmi butter masala, mutton haleem. It has four food outlets in Kolkata: Kankurgachi, Salt Lake Sector III, Ajay Nagar, and Nagerbazar. }} * {{eat | name=Waldorf | alt= | url= | email= | address=13 D, Russel St | lat=22.5532 | long=88.3512 | directions=near crossing with Park St| phone=+91 33 65354952| fax=| hours= | price=| content=Serves delicious Chinese food }} ===Sudder Street=== * {{eat | name=Blue Sky Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=3, Sudder St | lat=22.5579 | long=88.3539 | directions=on the corner of Chowringhee Ln | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2019-02-10| content=The food is cheap, the place is clean and the service is truly fantastic. Great if you are on an extended stay as they offer both Indian and some Western food. You will not find nicer waiters anywhere. Try the freshly squeezed juices. }} * {{eat | name=Curd Corner | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sudder St | lat= | long= | directions=near junction with Chowringhee Ln | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-18 | content=This small hole-in-the-wall eatery is quite an institution in the area, and a generation of travellers have gorged themselves on the fresh and thick yoghurt. Check out the filter coffee and 'mock' cappuccino. Service staff don't speak English, which makes it hard when their menu is in English. }} ==Drink== === Alcohol === * {{drink | name=Big Ben | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Kenilworth, Little Russell Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} *{{drink | name=Fairlawn Beer Garden | alt= | url=http://www.fairlawnhotel.com/ | email= | address=13/A Sudder St | lat=22.55834 | long=88.35267 | directions=inside Hotel Fairlawn | phone=+91 33 2252 1510 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Only serves beer. Eccentric atmosphere with greenery everywhere. Famous among travellers and volunteers. Great place for meeting people and early evening drinking. Snacks and dinner available. }} * {{drink | name=The Myx | alt= | url= | email= | address=20G Park St | lat=22.55214 | long=88.35278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Nocturne | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shakespeare Sarani | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Olypub | alt= | url= | email= | address=23 Park St | lat=22.5534 | long= 88.3522| directions= | phone=+91 33 64520472 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 11AM to 11PM| price= | content=A fine afforable bar, famous for the beer and the beef steak. }} * {{drink | name=Shisha Bar Stock Exchange, The Factory Outlet | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Camac Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} *{{drink | name=Super Pub | url= | email= | address=Sudder St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite of Fire Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Air-conditioned and clean place. Serves beer and hard liquor and seasonal fruit juice. Snacks and eateries are reasonably priced. }} ===Coffees=== There are a number of cafe chains (Barista, Cafe Coffee Day, etc.) on Park Street, near the junction with Mirza Ghalib Street. *{{drink | name=Cha Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=2nd floor, Oxford Book Store, Park St | lat=22.5539 | long=88.3519 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A modern and chic cafe with a great selection of teas, including herbal, and smoothies. The coffee however is mediocre. A large window offers views of street life below, while the books provide a literary dimension. }} * {{drink |name=The Street | address=GF, Park Hotel, Park St |content=The universal colours of chic decor, black and red, are used extensively to give this cafe a warm but modern feel. Good selection of coffees and healthy snacks opposed to what the name might make you think. This cafe is about as far from representing Kolkata street life as you could possibly get, but it makes a good alternative to the ubiquitous ''Baristas'' and ''Coffee Days''. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} Sudder Street is at the centre of Kolkata's backpacker area, and many of the budget hotels geared towards travellers are on and around this street. ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Astoria Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.astoria.in | email=astoria@hotmail.com | address=Sudder St | lat=22.55807 | long=88.35428 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 9679, +91 90516 88123 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,850-3,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Clean, large, albeit drab, rooms with private bathrooms. It has a variety of options for dining and also has fitness amenities. The hotel staff are usually considered helpful, though the receptionist is sometimes considered rude and unhelpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Broadway Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.broadwayhotel.in/ | email=contact@broadwayhotel.in | address=27A Ganesh Chandra Ave, Chandni Chowk | lat=22.566384 | long=88.357758 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22363930, +91 33 2236 3931 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout=24 hours from when you check in | price=₹775 double with private bathroom | image=Calcutta's Broadway Hotel (14657993359).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-18 | content=Despite lacking AC the very large rooms with high ceilings make for a great space and the price is definitely right. Don't miss the authentic ambience of the restaurant and bar of this 1937-built hotel. Supposedly due to the hotel's popularity rooms are often difficult to get unless you book ahead, however, try hanging around and see if one magically opens up while you're there (especially if you're first offered a more expensive room). Upper triple rooms have balconies. Also one of the few places which serves beer with a plate of sliced cucumber. }} *{{sleep | name=Esplanade Chambers | alt= | url=http://www.esplanadechambers.com | email=esplanadechambers@yahoo.co.in | address=2 Chandni Chowk St | lat=22.56736 | long=88.3565 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2212 7101, +91 99 0313 2621 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single from ₹1,400, double deluxe ₹2,200, breakfast incl | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Very clean and reasonably quiet rooms, albeit not massive. Has a free and reliable Wi-Fi service. The staff and the manager are considered very helpful and accommodating. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Galaxy | alt= | url= | email= | address=3, Stuart Ln | lat=22.55726 | long=88.35424 | directions=off Sudder St | phone=+33 2252 4565 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,000-1,100 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Clean, simple, and convenient location with AC rooms. Has kitchen and drinking water supply facilities. The hotel staff are considered helpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Jaapon | alt= | url= | email= | address=30F Mirza Galib St | lat=22.5574 | long=88.3546 | directions=at the end of Sudder St | phone=+91 33 2252 0657, +91 33 2252 0658 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single: ₹650, AC doubles: ₹1,100 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Reasonably clean AC and non-AC rooms available with a very small private bathroom and cable TV. Beds are surprisingly comfortable given the thin and well-worn mattresses, but some rooms are chokingly musty - check before checking in. The hotel staff are not considered helpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Maria | alt= | url= | email= | address=5/1 Sudder St | lat=22.5578 | long=88.3541 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 0860 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=dorm ₹80, Very basic, creatively graffiti-ed rooms with and without attached bathroom from ₹300 as of Feb 2015. Grumpy service, cheap laundry, dank bathroom/toilet and no wifi. Very central location, '''takes no bookings, so arrive early''' (8:30AM onwards) | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Modern Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Stuart Ln | lat=22.55742 | long=88.35425 | directions=off Sudder St | phone=+91 33 2252 4960 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹100-250 | content=Not very modern, but cheap and fairly clean. ₹150 for a single with a shared cold-water bathroom. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Royal Palace | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 5280, +91 33 2252 4178 | hours= | price=₹350-750 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Clean and large A/C & non-A/C rooms with private bath, TV, STD/ISD. }} *{{sleep | name=Seacom Inn YMCA | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/hotels-in-kolkata/ | email=chowringheeymca@yahoo.com | address=25 Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5559 | long=88.3505 | directions=near corner with Kyd St | phone=+91 33 2249-2192 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Non A/C single ₹600, with A/C ₹850 | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=An extremely drab and dark hotel that appears not to have received a lick of paint since its founding in the mid-19th century. However, in some ways, that is the hotel's distinctive charm, and so it may appeal to strict traditionalists. There is a simple restaurant on the second floor. The food is nothing special, but the balcony offers a great view of the buzzing city below. }} *{{sleep | name=Sunflower Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.sunflowerguesthouse.com | email=sunflowerguesthouse@gmail.com | address=7 Royd St | lat=22.55253 | long=88.35607 | directions=200 m away intersection Park St and Mirza Ghalib St | phone=+91 33 2229 9401, +91 33 2229 8388 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,350 double | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=Clean and great location. Those who tote lots of luggage be warned there are stairs to climb to the top floor reception. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=DK international Hotel | alt= | url= | email=dkinhotel@gmail.com | address=11/1A Marquis St | lat=22.55648 | long=88.35594 | directions=near to Colin St corner | phone=+91 33 2252 2540, +91 33 2252 2666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double from ₹1,800+tax | content=All rooms A/C and breakfast included. Close to the Bangladesh bus stations. There are better deals out there but not quite as new as this place. }} * {{sleep | name=The Senator | alt= | url=http://thesenatorhotel.com/ | email= | address=15 Camac St | lat=22.5429 | long=88.3523 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2289 3000 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:OberoiGrandHotelKolkata gobeirne.jpg|thumb|The Oberoi Grand]] * {{sleep | name=The Astor | alt= | url=http://www.astorkolkata.com/ | email=sales@astorkolkata.com | address=15 Shakespeare Sarani | lat=22.5459 | long=88.35197 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22829957 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 22827430 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double: ₹5,900-10,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Kabab-e-Que restaurant phone +91 33 22829958 }} * {{sleep | name=Elgin Fairlawn | alt= | url=https://www.elginhotels.com/fairlawn.php | email=fairlawn@cal.vsnl.net.in | address=13/A Sudder St | lat=22.558674 | long=88.352687 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 1510, +91 33 2252 8767 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single: ₹5,000-5,600, double: ₹7,550-8,400 | wikidata=Q55610732 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=The building dates to 1783 with many colonial-era relics. }} * {{sleep | name=The Golden Parkk | alt= | url=http://www.goldenparkk.com/ | email=sales@thegoldenpark.com | address=13 Ho Chi Minh Sarani | lat=22.5476 | long=88.3496 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22883939 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 22889600 | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹8,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Housez 43 | alt= | url=https://thesparkhotels.com/hotel_details/hotel-housez-43 | email=booking.housez43@thesparkhotels.com | address=43 Mirza Ghalib St | lat=22.55533 | long=88.35433 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2227 6020, +91 7595067173 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rates start at ₹4,950 | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=All rooms equipped with air-conditioning, TV, and private bath. }} * {{sleep | name=The LaLiT Great Eastern | alt= | url=https://www.thelalit.com/the-lalit-kolkata/ | email= | address= | lat=22.5684 | long=88.3495 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4444-7777 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q15217311 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=Built in 1841, the Great Eastern Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Kolkata. The hotel has housed many famous personalities including Nikita Khrushchev and Nikolai Bulganin, Elizabeth II, Mark Twain, Dave Brubeck and possibly Ho Chi Minh. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lindsay | alt= | url=http://www.hotellindsay.com/ | email=sales@hotellindsay.com | address=8A/8B Lindsay St | lat=22.559426 | long=88.352754 | directions= | phone=+91 33 3021 8666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,600 double | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=The hotel is well-lit and clean. Its facilities, including a room minibar, hot water, tea and coffee, make it a good value four-star property. }} * {{sleep | name=Kenilworth Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.kenilworthhotels.com/russel-street-kolkata/ | email=reservationkol@kenilworthhotels.com | address=1 & 2, Little Russel St | lat=22.54633 | long=88.35022 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2282 3939 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2282 5136, +91 33 2282 3940, +91 33 6621 4100 | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹6,900-₹8,000 | wikidata=Q111402415 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi Grand | alt= | url=http://www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/ | email=reservations@oberoigroup.com | address=15, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.56159 | long=88.35109 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2249 2323 | tollfree=1800-11-2030 | fax=+91 33 2249 9427 | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$375-1,375, ₹10,000 | wikidata=Q5594620 | lastedit=2024-11-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com | email=resv.cal@theparkhotels.com | address=17, Park St | lat=22.5542 | long=88.3519 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2249 3121 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2249 4000 | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹9,950-12,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=The unassuming exterior hides an elegant and homely interior with stylish Indian features. Drink at Aqua (First Floor), Roxy (Ground Floor), and Someplace Else (Ground Floor). }} * {{sleep | name=Peerless Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=12 Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5626 | long=88.3514 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4400 3900 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹10,000 | wikidata=Q108541466 | lastedit=2024-11-18 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Walson | alt= | url=http://www.walson.bawahotels.com/ | email=bawawalson@bawahotels.com | address=5A Sudder St | lat=22.5578 | long=88.3538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 1512, +91 99033 29977 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=₹6,000-6,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=An upscale new venue that's breaking the trend from the Sudder St backpacker tide. 29 rooms }} ==Stay safe== Although most of Esplanade is considered safe, one noted problem here is the drug dealers around Sudder Street. However, as the dealers obviously do not want to draw undue attention to their activity, they are not persistent and are rarely a threat. ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Park Street Police Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.54962 | long=88.35632 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22268321, +91 33 22832100, +91 33 22276437 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content= }} ==Connect== There are other smaller internet cafes on Sudder St such as '''Net Freaks''', but they are often very busy. * {{listing | name=Gopal's Planet | alt= | url=http://www.facebook.com/Gopalsplanet | email=gopalsplanet@gmail.com | address=7 Tottie Ln | lat=22.55774 | long=88.35346 | directions=Coming from Sudder St, walk 50m (150ft) into Tottie Ln. On your left-hand side, same building as Raj's Guesthouse, ground floor | phone=+91 9674273616 | tollfree= | hours=8AM-11PM | price= | content=Friendly, quiet internet cafe off Sudder Street with relatively modern computers, AC and free chai (with Wi-Fi, printers, phone calls, etc.) They also rent bicycles and sell train tickets. Their coffee and snacks are good as well. }} * {{listing | name=Hotline Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=7, Sudder St | lat=22.55839 | long=88.35396 | directions=near the Astoria Hotel, at the back of the parking lot between Roop Shringar clothing shop and Metro Beauty Parlour. Identified with a large illuminated sign in red | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=It has a room jam-packed with high-speed computers, and charges ₹15/hr. They also sell CDs of various styles of Indian music for around ₹150/each and have a selection of hand-woven material and cotton clothing from all over India. The hotline also provides a coffee and snack service. }} ==Cope== {{Outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.57|88.35|zoom=14}} nt6yydd6fskkfgkybzij93plr5ntvso 5090756 5090754 2025-07-10T12:37:06Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for The Astor 5090756 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Kolkata Esplanade banner.jpg|pgname=Esplanade}} [[File:Esplanade Row East.jpg|thumb|Colonial-era buildings at Esplanade Row East]] '''Esplanade''' (এসপ্ল্যানেড ''Esplyāneḍ'') or '''Dharmatala''' (ধর্মতলা ''Dharmatalā'') is the heart of [[Kolkata]], with the mix of some colonial-era buildings with newer ones. It is the new central business district (CBD) of Kolkata and the place of choice for many large business houses, especially at Chowringhee Road (Jawaharlal Nehru Road) and Park Street (Mother Teresa Sarani). When the British started expanding their settlement outside [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh|B. B. D. Bagh]] in the mid-18th century, it was one of the first expansions. During the early British developments around the area, they built huge bungalows and houses all along the northern end of Chowringhee Rd. However, only a few of them still remains, including The Oberoi Grand, the Janbazar Building, the Chowringhee Mansions, the Asiatic Society and the majestic Indian Museum. ==Understand== [[File:Shaheed Minar Sd2175.jpg|thumb|Shaheed Minar]] This district covers the central areas of Kolkata, east of [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh|B. B. D. Bagh]] and the [[Kolkata/Maidan|Maidan]], covering the area around AJC Bose Rd (Lower Circular Rd), Chowringhee Road (Jawaharlal Nehru Road), Esplanade Row East (Sido Kanhu Dahar), Mayo Road, and Park Street (Mother Teresa Sarani). The area consists of neighbourhoods like Chowringhee, Entally, Esplanade, and Janbazar. ===Roads=== * '''Chowringhee Road''' (চৌরঙ্গী রোড ''Chauraṅgī Roḍ''), officially '''Jawaharlal Nehru Road''' (জওহরলাল নেহেরু রোড ''Jaoharlāl Neheru Roḍ''), runs north-south from the junction with Esplanade Row East and Central Avenue (Dorina Crossing) to the junction with AJC Bose Road and Ashutosh Mukherjee Road (Exide More). It is lined up with trees at one side and high-rise buildings at the other, and most of the buildings are major commercial establishments of Kolkata. * '''Park Street''' (পার্ক স্ট্রিট ''Pārk Sṭriṭ''), officially '''Mother Teresa Sarani''' (মাদার টেরিজা সরণি ''Mādār Ṭerijā Saraṇi''), runs west-east from Chowringhee Road to AJC Bose Road, and eventually to [[Kolkata/South|Park Circus]]. It is Kolkata's foremost dining area with many restaurants and pubs, which also showcases fashionable clothes, books from all over the world and so on. Park Street has retained the British spirit and is so well decorated during Christmas and New Year as if it is still part of the [[British Empire]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.557|88.362|height=450|width=450|zoom=14|name=Map of Esplanade}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} {{Mapmask|22.5552,88.3503|22.5477,88.3482|22.5416,88.3473|22.5410,88.3593|22.5467,88.3614|22.5464,88.3617|22.5457,88.3627|22.5455,88.3629|22.5435,88.3657|22.5431,88.3658|22.5429,88.3661|22.5430,88.3665|22.5434,88.3667|22.5437,88.3675|22.5437,88.3676|22.5449,88.3706|22.5453,88.3706|22.5469,88.3708|22.5505,88.3712|22.5510,88.3712|22.5522,88.3716|22.5520,88.3724|22.5517,88.3724|22.5516,88.3731|22.5517,88.3734|22.5514,88.3744|22.5513,88.3751|22.5571,88.3756|22.5580,88.3757|22.5589,88.3756|22.5596,88.3755|22.5598,88.3759|22.5606,88.3761|22.5614,88.3767|22.5616,88.3769|22.5615,88.3776|22.5616,88.3778|22.5630,88.3781|22.5631,88.3773|22.5634,88.3766|22.5635,88.3759|22.5633,88.3750|22.5633,88.3746|22.5632,88.3734|22.5633,88.3732|22.5639,88.3726|22.5646,88.3717|22.5652,88.3703|22.5657,88.3689|22.5651,88.3687|22.5650,88.3687|22.5638,88.3683|22.5619,88.3675|22.5606,88.3669|22.5607,88.3655|22.5608,88.3647|22.5606,88.3634|22.5603,88.3623|22.5605,88.3623|22.5619,88.3626|22.5620,88.3624|22.5625,88.3625|22.5625,88.3626|22.5634,88.3629|22.5634,88.3630|22.5644,88.3637|22.5650,88.3638|22.5662,88.3641|22.5663,88.3634|22.5666,88.3627|22.5669,88.3623|22.5672,88.3621|22.5680,88.3612|22.5683,88.3603|22.5686,88.3604|22.5709,88.3614|22.5719,88.3598|22.5724,88.3587|22.5705,88.3580|22.5710,88.3562|22.5710,88.3562|22.5720,88.3531|22.5722,88.3526|22.5726,88.3513|22.5727,88.3509|22.5671,88.3488|22.5661,88.3485|22.5648,88.3481|22.5647,88.3477|22.5640,88.3466|22.5637,88.3468|22.5630,88.3470|22.5626,88.3470|22.5620,88.3468|22.5559,88.3446|22.5555,88.3443|22.5552,88.3443|22.5552,88.3446|22.5553,88.3448|22.5552,88.3478|22.5551,88.3489|22.5553,88.3495|22.5552,88.3503}} ===By bus=== {{marker|type=go|name=Esplanade Bus Terminus|lat=22.56303|long=88.34997|wikidata=Q124681311}} also serves several city bus routes, not just the long-distance ones. It is the most obvious way to get here, though there are bus stops to alight at specific destinations within the district. ===By metro=== Esplanade is served by metrro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}} and {{rint|kolkata|2}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful to get here from northern and southern parts of the city, while Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful to get here from [[Howrah]]. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is the fastest way to connect the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah, avoiding the congestion at the Howrah Bridge and Vidyasagar Setu. === By tram === There are only two active routes from {{marker|type=go|name=Esplanade Tram Terminus|lat=22.565|long=88.35|image=Esplanade tram terminus.jpg}}, one from [[Kolkata/North|Shyambazar]], and another from [[Kolkata/North|Gariahat]]. Despite being eco-friendly, this is not the most practical way to get here, especially in peak hours when the roads are congested. ==See== [[File:The 42 from Maidan.jpg|thumb|The 42]] [[File:Metropolitan Building (Kolkata).jpg|thumb|Metropolitan Building]] * {{see | name=The 42 | alt=দ্য ফোরটি-টু ''Dya Phōrṭi-ṭu'' | url=http://www.the42.in/ | email= | address=42B, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.54835 | long=88.34975 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7711913 | lastedit=2023-04-14 | content=A {{m|260}} high box-shaped apartment building, and the tallest building of the city. }} * {{see | name=Bow Barracks | alt=বো ব্যারাক ''Bo Byārāk'' | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4950610 | lastedit=2022-12-13 | content=A small hub of mainly Anglo-Indian population who have lived here for generations. According to a legend, Bow Barracks was a garrison's mess built for the army during World War I. When the soldiers left India, they handed over the flats to the Anglo-Indians who took them on rent. Bow Barracks is also famous for its Christmas celebration. }} * {{see | name=Esplanade Mansions | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Esplanade Row East | lat=22.566389 | long=88.348889 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68470889 | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=One of the buildings previously owned by Jewish businessman David Elias Ezra. The residential building was built in the Art Nouveau architecture style. As of 2022, it is owned by the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) and houses commercial, railways and other government offices. }} * {{see | name=House of Henry Louis Vivian Derozio | alt= | url= | email= | address=155A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.559764 | long=88.366676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68597114 | lastedit=2022-11-29 | content=Derozio was a young social reformer and the founder of the Young Bengal group. }} * {{see | name=Metropolitan Building | alt=Whiteways and Laidlaw Building | url=http://www.wmf.org/project/metropolitan-building | email= | address=140, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5637 | long=88.3516 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6825020 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=It was a famous department store in Kolkata during the British period. This neo-baroque emporium—with domes, a clock tower and arched recessed windows—exemplifies fashionable shopping during the British Raj. }} * {{see | name=Shaheed Minar | alt=শহীদ মিনার ''Śahīd Minār'', former name: Ochterlony Monument | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.56286 | long=88.34923 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7461557 | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Locally known as simply "Monument", the British colonial monument is 48 meters high. It is rededicated to the Indian freedom activists in 1969 and the monument was renamed Shaheed Minar. }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indian Musium, Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Courtyard of the Indian Museum]] * {{see | name=Baker Hostel | alt=বেকার হোস্টেল ''Bekār Hosṭel'' | url= | email= | address=8, Smith Ln | lat=22.558854 | long=88.358986 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q90092840 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A historical building founded in 1910 by Edward Norman Baker as a government hostel for the male students of Maulana Azad College. The rooms 23 and 24 of the building are converted into a museum in honour of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father and the first president of [[Bangladesh]]. Room no. 24 (Bangabandhu Memorial Room) contains Rahman's used bed, table and chair. There is a small library where his books are arranged. }} * {{see | name=Currency Building | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Surendra Mohan Ghosh Sarani | lat=22.570556 | long=88.350278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56245193 | lastedit=2022-12-02 | content=A three-story Italianate structure, consisting of floors covered by marble and Chunar sandstone. During its use as a currency office, the central hall contained the exchange counters for banknotes, gold, silver, and small change. In 1994, authorities decided to raze the building due to structural deterioration. However, the building was saved from being completely demolished and was renovated between 2005 and 2019. On 11 January 2020, the building was formally dedicated as a public museum at its reopening ceremony. }} * {{see | name=Indian Museum | alt= | url=http://www.indianmuseumkolkata.org/ | email=indianmuseumkolkata@gmail.com | address=27, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.558056 | long=88.350833 | directions=metro: {{station|Park Street|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone=+91 33 2249 5699 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 249 5696 | hours=closed on Mondays | price=Admission: ₹10 (for Indian citizens) ₹150 (for foreign citizens) | wikidata=Q1364900 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=Established in 1814, this was the first such museum in Asia. Among its famous collection is the urn that held the ashes of the Buddha (though this is generally not on display), a Pillar of Ashoka (the three-lion symbol which became the official emblem of the Republic of India) and numerous rare antiques. A varied collection of exhibits include unique fossils, Buddhist Gandhara art and an Egyptian mummy. The Indian Museum has a library of excellent historical value, with a special focus on the British Raj and Kolkata. }} * {{see | name=Smaranika Tram Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=6, Esplanade Row E | lat=22.56525 | long=88.34995 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|blue|green}}; tram: {{station|Esplanade|tram}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=3PM–8PM (closed Th) | price=₹5 | wikidata=Q56682452 | lastedit=2024-03-19 | content=A museum housed inside a decommissioned tram, showcasing the 150-year-old heritage of the tram system in Kolkata. There's a cafeteria in the museum which serves basic tea and coffee. The cafeteria is considered a great place for ''adda''... }} ===Religious attractions=== [[File:Kolkata Tipu Sultan's Mosque3.jpg|thumb|Tipu Sultan Mosque]] * {{see | name=Bauddha Dharmankur Sabha | alt= | url= | email= | address=1 Buddhist Temple St | lat=22.569523 | long=88.356614 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2211 7138 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65080479 | content=A Buddhist monastery established in 1892 and run by the Bengal Buddhist Association. The distinct red building mostly consists of a school and a guest house. There is a very small Buddhist shrine tucked away on the 1st floor. }} * {{see | name=Beth-El Synagogue | alt=বেথ এল সিনাগগ | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q40670133 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content= }} * {{see | name=Carey Baptist Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB Ganguly St, Bowbazar | lat=22.57125 | long=88.35512 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2236 7254 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q66313056 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content= }} * {{see | name=Church of the Lord Jesus | alt=Prabhu Jisur Girja; প্রভু যীশুর গির্জা | url= | email= | address=Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Rd, Taltala | lat=22.558511 | long=88.357743 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3585996 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Formerly a Church of Scotland Presbyterian, the Catholic church is a unique one in the city with most of religious services are done in Bengali. }} * {{see | name=Firinghi Kalibari | alt=ফিরিঙ্গি কালীবাড়ি ''Phiriṅgi Kālībāṛi'' | url= | email= | address=244, BB Ganguly St, Bowbazar | lat=22.57025 | long=88.35898 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5452082 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=An old Kali temple, said to be 500 years old. The temple is called "Firinghi Kalibari" since Portuguese-born folk singer Anthony Firingee used to come in the temple. Here Goddess Kali is worshipped as "Shri Shri Siddheshwari Kalimata Thakurani". }} * {{see | name=Lower Circular Road Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.5478 | long=88.3637 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19893393 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mother Teresa’s tomb | alt=Mother House | url=http://motherteresa.org/03_learn/pilgrimage-to-Mother-Teresa-tomb.html | email= | address=54A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5531 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2217 5267 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-03 | content=The Missionaries of Charity is a new order formed in 1950 by Mother Teresa. Their vow to give wholehearted and free service to the poorest of the poor was put into action with the setting up of several homes. Visit Mother Teresa’s tomb at the Mother House, Nirmal Hriday (home for the dying), Shanti Nagar (for lepers) and Nirmala Shishu Bhavan (the children’s home). }} * {{see | name=South Park Street cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park St | lat=22.546568 | long=88.36039 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2972549 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=The final resting place for early British traders and settlers. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan Mosque | alt=টিপু সুলতান মসজিদ ''Ṭipu Sultān Masjid''| url= | email= | address=185, Lenin Sarani | lat=22.5653 | long=88.3518 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tipu Sultan Mosque | image=Kolkata Tipu Sultan's Mosque3.jpg | wikidata=Q3349172 | content=Built in 1832 by Prince Ghulam Mohammed, the youngest son of Tipu Sultan. People from all sections of society and religions are allowed to visit and take pictures of this historical premise. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Curzon Park | alt=Surendranath Park | url= | email= | address=Rashmoni Ave | lat=22.5649 | long=88.3498 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68476643 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content= }} * {{do | name=Indira Gandhi Sarani | alt=Red Road | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55901 | long=88.34577 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24943898 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=A road running from Raj Bhavan to Fort William West Gate, surrounded by greenery. The road is known for a large parade on Republic Day (26 January) and the [[Durga Puja|Durga Puja Carnival]]. }} * {{do | name=Jyoti Cinema | alt= | url= | email= | address=32/1, Lenin Sarani | lat=22.5636 | long=88.3535 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6319406 | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=One of the most popular and oldest single-screen movie theatres of Kolkata. Hindi films and English Hollywood films used to be screened regularly. The theatre had a steady audience for its comfortable seating, good screen quality and stereophonic sound. }} * {{do | name=Metro Cinema | alt= | url=https://kolktafatafat.com/ | email= | address=8, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5641 | long=88.3494 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6824536 | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=A uniplex cinema hall and a heritage building with Art Deco architecture. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française du Bengale | alt= | url=http://bengale.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Park Mansions, 57A Park St | lat=22.55251 | long=88.35322 | directions=upon arriving at Park Mansions, enter the gate facing Park St at Mirza Ghalib St-Park St crossing | phone=+91 33 4006 4801 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-6PM (closed Su) | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The French language school in Kolkata, promoting the study of French and encouraging international cultural exchange and relations. }} * {{listing | name=The Asiatic Society | alt= | url=https://www.asiaticsocietykolkata.org/ | email= | address=1, Park St | lat=22.554913 | long=88.351135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q374902 | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Max Mueller Bhavan Kolkata | alt=Goethe-Institut | url=https://goethe.de/kolkata | email= | address=Gate 4, Park Mansions, 57A Park St | lat=22.55315 | long=88.35354 | directions=upon arriving at Park Mansions, take Mirza Ghalib St and enter the leftmost gate | phone=+91 33 2264 6602 | tollfree= | hours=9AM-6PM (closed Su) | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The German language school in Kolkata, promoting the study of German and encouraging international cultural exchange and relations. }} ==Buy== [[File:India - Kolkata Hogg market - 3366.jpg|thumb|Meat shops at New Market]] The Esplanade area is the central marketplace for the people of Kolkata. There are shops ranging from computer peripherals to paint brushes and accessories, from cloth merchants to "foreign" (ফরেন ''pharen'') goods. There are cinemas and restaurants. Major chain retailers include '''[https://www.pantaloons.com/ Pantaloons]''' (22, Camac St). * {{buy | name=Dr B. C. Roy Market | alt=Maidan Market, Bidhan Market | url= | email= | address=Dufferin Rd | lat=22.56218 | long=88.35053 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-28 | content=It has garments, sports goods and other shops. }} *{{buy | name=Eagle | url= | email= | address=12/2 Lindsay St | lat=22.5594257 | long=88.3527538 | directions=in front on New Market | phone=+91 33 98 023 6663 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A good place to pick up Indian art films. }} * {{buy | name=Earthcare Books | alt= | url= | email= | address=10 Middleton St | lat=22.54942 | long=88.35047| directions=Maidan metro station | phone=+91 33 2229-6551 | hours= | price=| content=A wonderful independent bookstore tucked away in an alley leading from Middleton St. As the name suggests, the bookstore specializes in environmental titles but also has a wide range of local subjects and poetry. }} * {{buy | name=Emami Shoppers' City | alt= | url= |email= | address=3 Lord Sinha Rd | lat=22.5445 | long=88.3487 | directions= |phone=+91 33 2282 0675| fax= | hours= | price= | content=Coffee shops, bookshop, designer wear, toy shops, boutiques, footwear stores, electronic stores, discotheque, beauty salons, gift shops, game parlours, multiplex }} * {{buy | name=Entally Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=58, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.55877 | long=88.36642 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-08 | content=One of the old markets in Kolkata. Shops sell ready-made garments, vegetables, groceries, textiles, margarine, fish and fruits. This market was once famously known for its dairy product shops that provided high quality dairy items such as paneer, ghee, yogurt, condensed milk, cheese and butter. }} * {{buy | name=Handicrafts | alt=Between Sudder St and Surendranath Banerjee Road | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55811 | long=88.35272 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has several shops selling handicrafts. The largest is at the corner of Surendranath Banerjee Road. }} * {{buy | name=Metro Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Ho Chi Minh Sarani | lat=22.5473 | long=88.3488 | directions=beside Tata Centre, near to Maidan metro station| phone=+91 33 30525473, +91 33 30525474, +91 33 22883802 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Locally manufactured readymade clothes. Many shops deal only in imported garments, mostly from Bangkok. The latest footwear and lingerie. Good parking facility. }} * {{buy | name=Mirza Ghalib Street | alt=Free School Street | url= | address= | lat=22.55829 | long=88.35481| directions= | phone= | hours= | price= | content=It is famous for its second-hand bookshops and second-hand record stalls. Rummaging through the LPs for sale on the street, one may find real gems from the jazz age. }} * {{buy | name=New Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bertram St, Lenin Sarani | lat=22.5607 | long=88.3532 | directions=E of Lindsay Street {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M–F 10:30AM–7:30PM, S 10:30AM–2:30PM | price= | wikidata=Q7010004 | lastedit=2023-01-24 | content=One of the oldest surviving markets in the city. Opened in 1874, it was named Sir Stuart Hogg Market after the commissioner Sir Stuart Hogg and it is still locally known as such. Although the beautiful fountain and benches at the market no longer exist, its popularity has not waned and the beautiful Gothic clock tower recalls the British heritage of the market. New Market is a good place to sample Indian sweet delicacies and generally soak up the atmosphere of Kolkata. There are also a few handicraft stalls inside. The market is in a large red brick building on Lindsay Street (the road parallel Sudder Street to the north). It has got over 2,000 stalls and is a bargain hunter's delight. The shops are arranged merchandise-wise. It is supposed to be the ultimate marketing experience in Kolkata. }} * {{buy | name=Oxford Book Store | alt= | url=http://www.oxfordbookstore.com | email= | address=15 Park St | lat=22.55449 | long=88.35125 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2229 5455 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large and well-organised bookstore. Good selection of books on India and by Indian writers. Discount books and cafe (Cha Bar, see [[#Drink|Drink]] section) on the second floor. }} * {{buy | name=Shree Ram Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.55863 | long=88.35084 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10:00-20:00 from Tuesday to Saturday and from 13:00 - 20:00. on Mondays. Sunday holiday. | price= | content=Full of garment shops. }} * {{buy | name=Treasure Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55911 | long=88.35269 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M 1PM-8PM, Tu-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Vardaan Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=25-A, Camac St | lat=22.5483 | long=88.3536 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22812724, +91 33 22874082 | fax=| hours= | price= | content=Forerunner of today's large shopping malls, it was the earliest air-conditioned market. Little shops and stalls line the walls of this mall selling shoes, handbags, toys, saris, salwar suits and western wear for ladies, shirts, tee shirts and trousers for men and children's clothes for all ages, chocolates and snacks. }} * {{buy | name=Westside | alt= | url=http://www.mywestside.com/webpages/innerpages/storedetail.aspx?Id=7 | email=mywestside@trent-tata.com | address=Block D22 Camac St | lat=22.5468 | long=88.3531 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22817312 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | content=The Westside stores have numerous departments to meet the varied shopping needs of customers. These include menswear, women’s wear, kid’s wear, footwear, cosmetics, perfumes and handbags, household accessories, lingerie, and gifts. Fashionable goods are priced a little on the higher side. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Jimmy's Kitchen | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/1A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.544184 | long=88.360276 | directions=AJC Bose Rd-Shakespeare Sarani crossing | phone=+91 33 2290 7139 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese food. Drinks available. Popular items: Thai soup, noodles, lung fung soup, prawn, crispy chilli chicken, roast pork chilli, sweet corn soup. Jimmy's Kitchen has two branches: 1. 36F Ruby Hospital Road, 2. 14D, Lindsay Street. }} * {{eat | name=Jyoti Vihar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ho Chi Minh Sarani | lat=22.54708 | long=88.35059 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2282 9791 | hours= | price= | content=Offers clean and tasty South Indian food. It is completely vegetarian. It is on the same street as the US Consulate. }} * {{eat | name=Kabab-e-Que | alt=The Astor | url=http://www.astorkolkata.com/restnbars.php | email= | address=15 Shakespeare Sarani | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Astor Hotel | phone=+91-33 22829957-58 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They serve Indian and continental cuisine, but what has made this outlet famous is the variety of kababs that goes wonderfully well with drinks. }} *{{eat |name=Khalsa |alt=|url=|email=|address=Madge Ln |lat=|long=|directions=on left side when entering Madge Ln, from Sudder St|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2019-02-10|content=offers excellent and cheap Punjabi food. }} *{{eat | name=Mission Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=20 Ganesh Chandra Ave | lat=22.5679 | long=88.3558 | directions= | phone= | hours= | price=| content=Vegetarian fast food spot. Dosa, chaats and curry are served at high tables. The cafe is known for its chole bhature, a chickpea dish served in a phuchka shell. Turnover is fast here, not even stools to sit on, but it is nonetheless tasty. }} * {{eat | name=Nizam's | alt=নিজামস ''Nijāms'' | url= | email= | address=23/24 Hogg St | lat=22.5617 | long=88.3536 | directions=junction of Hogg St and Corporation Pl | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kolkata 2024 random Moments (13).jpg | lastedit=2025-02-21 | content=Opened in 1932, the restaurant is known for the "kathi kebab roll". The roll initially became popular among the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh|B. B. D. Bagh]] officers during lunch time, then became an iconic food of Kolkata. It also serves a special potato roll named after Indian actor Amitabh Bachchan. It has a separate beef counter that serves beef kebab, bhuna, chaap, biryani and khiri (cow udder). }} ===Bowbazar=== * {{eat | name=Bhim Chandra Nag | alt=ভীম চন্দ্র নাগ ''Bhīm Candra Nāg'' | url= | email= | address=5, Nirmal Chandra St | lat=22.568681 | long=88.360246 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2212 0465, +91 33 2269 7908 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Bhim Chandra Nag sweet shop at Bowbazar, Kolkata, WB.jpg | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=The 200-year-old shop is famous for sandesh. It is the inventor of ''leḍikeni'' (লেডিকেনি), named after the wife of Lord Canning, the then-Viceroy of India. }} * {{eat | name=Naba Krishna Guin | alt=নব কৃষ্ণ গুঁই ''Naba Kr̥ṣṇa Gũi'' | url= | email= | address=9B, Nirmal Chandra St | lat=22.56862 | long=88.36022 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 200-year-old traditional sweet shop is famous for its fried sweets (ভাজা মিষ্টি ''bhājā miṣṭi''). }} ===Chittaranjan Avenue and Chowringhee Road=== * {{eat | name=Aheli | alt= | url= | email=| address=Peerless Inn Hotel, 12, Chowringhee Rd | lat= | long= | directions=| phone=+91 33 2228-0301, +91 33 4400-3900 |fax=| hours= | price=| content=Authentic Bengali food, served in brass utensils in a Bengali marriage environment. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Anadi Cabin | alt=অনাদি কেবিন ''Anādi Kebin'' | url= | email= | address=9A, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.56327 | long=88.35155 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Anadi Cabin - Restaurant - 9A Chowringhee Road - Kolkata 2015-01-30 5705.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for Mughlai paratha (মোগলাই পরোটা ''Moglāi Paroṭā''). }} * {{eat | name=Ban Thai | alt= | url=http://www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_kolkata/dining.asp | email= | address=Oberoi Grand, 15 Chowringhee Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2249-2323 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 7-11:30PM, Sa Su 12:30-3PM and 7-11:30PM | price=Around ₹4,000 for two people. Drinks extra | content=For an authentic taste of Thailand, visit Baan Thai. Widely recognised as the premier Thai restaurant in the country. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Chung-Wah | alt= | url= | email= | address=13A, Chittaranjan Ave | lat= 22.5671| long=88.3538 | directions=metro: {{station|Chandni Chowk|1}} | phone=+91 33 22377003 | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest and best places to sample Chinese food. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=K.C. Das Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=11A&B, Chittaranjan Ave | lat=22.56545 | long=88.3515 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=Best known for its rasgullas, which is fondly called "rosogolla" (রসগোল্লা) in Bengali. }} * {{eat | name=New Embassy | alt= | url= | email= | address=53A, Chowringhee Ln | lat= | long=| directions=right on Chowringhee Rd between Shakespeare Sarani crossing and AJC Bose Rd crossing | phone=+91 33 22827490 |fax= |hours= | price= | content=Delicious Chinese food. }} * {{eat | name=Rallis, Esplanade | alt= | url= | email= | address=10D, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.56306 | long=88.35131 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=Kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=Vegetarian restaurant known for various kinds of snacks. Chats and South Indian foods are common. Famous for non-alcoholic drinks including various kinds of milkshakes. }} * {{eat | name=Sip & Sandwich | url= | email= | address=1 Shakespeare Sarani, Theatre Road AC Market, Elgin | lat=22.54605 | long=88.34842 | directions=Chowringhee Rd corner| phone=+91 9830605145| hours= | price=| content= Vegetarian fast food }} ===Mirza Ghalib Street=== * {{eat |name=Kathleen's |address=Mirza Ghalib St |content=Pastry shop and an eclectic mix of cuisines dominated by Indian and Chinese styles. }} * {{eat | name=Mocambo | alt= | url= | email= | address=25B Mirza Ghalib St | lat=22.55301 | long=88.35307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2265 4300 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=mains ₹100-300 | content=Same owners as Peter Cat, but here the cuisine is a bit more rounded. Continental, Indian and even some Chinese dishes are served in upscale surroundings. }} *{{eat | name=Raj's Spanish Cafe |alt=| url= | email= | address=7, Sudder St | lat=22.55815 | long=88.35376 | directions=hard-to-find alleyway entrance close to intersection Mirza Ghalib St | phone=+91 33 4001 4373|tollfree=|fax=| hours=8AM-10PM | price=mains ₹100 |lastedit=2019-02-10| content=Serves breakfast and espresso-based coffees. Mexican, pizza, and other Western staples. }} ===Park Street=== * {{eat | name=Drive Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=10 Middleton St | lat=22.54938 | long=88.35041 | directions=same as Earthcare Books | phone=+91 33 2217-2247 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Meals from around ₹70 | content=An outdoor restaurant offering a wide range of good vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare (Indian/Chinese). AC area is available, the staff speaks good English and is friendly. }} * {{eat | name=Flury's | alt= | url=http://www.flurysindia.com | email= | address=18 Park St | lat=22.55417 | long=88.35112 | directions=metro: {{station|Park Street|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone=+91 33 22297664 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 7AM-8PM, M 10AM-6PM | price= | content=A popular and stylish cafe serving a good variety of baked goods and various coffees, sandwiches and entrees. A great place for breakfast or lunch. Baked goods ₹80-₹100, drinks ₹80, meals ₹600-₹1000. }} * {{eat | name=Gangaur | alt= | url= | email=| address=2 Russel St | lat= | long= | directions=| phone=+91 33 22658437| fax=| hours= | price=| content=Serves a variety of vegetarian food but is famous for its Rajasthani or Marwari food. }} * {{eat | name=Kwality | alt= | url= | email= | address=17, Park St | lat=22.5538 | long=88.3519 | directions=next to Oxford Book Shop| phone=| hours= | price=Mains from ₹100| content=Been around for years with sharply dressed waiters serving tasty tandoori and north Indian food to well-off locals. Try their Chhola-bhatura. }} * {{eat | name=Moulin Rouge | alt=not to be confused with Paris night club | url= | email= | address=31, Park St | lat= | long= | directions=| phone=+91 33 2229 9397| fax= | hours= | price=| content= }} * {{eat | name=Oasis | alt= | url= | email=| address=33, Park St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2229 9033| hours= | price=| content=Cosy restaurant with variety of foods. Has a small bar service counter with three stalls. }} * {{eat | name=Peter Cat | alt= | url= | email=| address=18, Park St | lat=22.55418 | long=88.35111| directions=metro: {{station|Park Street|city=kolkata|blue}}| phone=+91 33 2229 8841 | hours= | price=| content=Very popular for its ''chello kababs''. However, their service has not received the best reviews. Serves Indian, tandoori and Continental fare. }} * {{eat | name=Shiraz Golden Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=135, Park St | lat=22.546484 | long=88.361926 | directions=near AJC Bose Rd crossing | phone=+91 33 3099 0175 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-11:30PM | price= | content=Biryani and Mughlai food. Popular items: firni, mutton biryani, brain masala, chicken tikka, chicken reshmi butter masala, mutton haleem. It has four food outlets in Kolkata: Kankurgachi, Salt Lake Sector III, Ajay Nagar, and Nagerbazar. }} * {{eat | name=Waldorf | alt= | url= | email= | address=13 D, Russel St | lat=22.5532 | long=88.3512 | directions=near crossing with Park St| phone=+91 33 65354952| fax=| hours= | price=| content=Serves delicious Chinese food }} ===Sudder Street=== * {{eat | name=Blue Sky Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=3, Sudder St | lat=22.5579 | long=88.3539 | directions=on the corner of Chowringhee Ln | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2019-02-10| content=The food is cheap, the place is clean and the service is truly fantastic. Great if you are on an extended stay as they offer both Indian and some Western food. You will not find nicer waiters anywhere. Try the freshly squeezed juices. }} * {{eat | name=Curd Corner | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sudder St | lat= | long= | directions=near junction with Chowringhee Ln | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-18 | content=This small hole-in-the-wall eatery is quite an institution in the area, and a generation of travellers have gorged themselves on the fresh and thick yoghurt. Check out the filter coffee and 'mock' cappuccino. Service staff don't speak English, which makes it hard when their menu is in English. }} ==Drink== === Alcohol === * {{drink | name=Big Ben | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Kenilworth, Little Russell Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} *{{drink | name=Fairlawn Beer Garden | alt= | url=http://www.fairlawnhotel.com/ | email= | address=13/A Sudder St | lat=22.55834 | long=88.35267 | directions=inside Hotel Fairlawn | phone=+91 33 2252 1510 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Only serves beer. Eccentric atmosphere with greenery everywhere. Famous among travellers and volunteers. Great place for meeting people and early evening drinking. Snacks and dinner available. }} * {{drink | name=The Myx | alt= | url= | email= | address=20G Park St | lat=22.55214 | long=88.35278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Nocturne | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shakespeare Sarani | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Olypub | alt= | url= | email= | address=23 Park St | lat=22.5534 | long= 88.3522| directions= | phone=+91 33 64520472 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 11AM to 11PM| price= | content=A fine afforable bar, famous for the beer and the beef steak. }} * {{drink | name=Shisha Bar Stock Exchange, The Factory Outlet | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Camac Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} *{{drink | name=Super Pub | url= | email= | address=Sudder St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite of Fire Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Air-conditioned and clean place. Serves beer and hard liquor and seasonal fruit juice. Snacks and eateries are reasonably priced. }} ===Coffees=== There are a number of cafe chains (Barista, Cafe Coffee Day, etc.) on Park Street, near the junction with Mirza Ghalib Street. *{{drink | name=Cha Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=2nd floor, Oxford Book Store, Park St | lat=22.5539 | long=88.3519 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A modern and chic cafe with a great selection of teas, including herbal, and smoothies. The coffee however is mediocre. A large window offers views of street life below, while the books provide a literary dimension. }} * {{drink |name=The Street | address=GF, Park Hotel, Park St |content=The universal colours of chic decor, black and red, are used extensively to give this cafe a warm but modern feel. Good selection of coffees and healthy snacks opposed to what the name might make you think. This cafe is about as far from representing Kolkata street life as you could possibly get, but it makes a good alternative to the ubiquitous ''Baristas'' and ''Coffee Days''. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} Sudder Street is at the centre of Kolkata's backpacker area, and many of the budget hotels geared towards travellers are on and around this street. ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Astoria Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.astoria.in | email=astoria@hotmail.com | address=Sudder St | lat=22.55807 | long=88.35428 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 9679, +91 90516 88123 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,850-3,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Clean, large, albeit drab, rooms with private bathrooms. It has a variety of options for dining and also has fitness amenities. The hotel staff are usually considered helpful, though the receptionist is sometimes considered rude and unhelpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Broadway Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.broadwayhotel.in/ | email=contact@broadwayhotel.in | address=27A Ganesh Chandra Ave, Chandni Chowk | lat=22.566384 | long=88.357758 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22363930, +91 33 2236 3931 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout=24 hours from when you check in | price=₹775 double with private bathroom | image=Calcutta's Broadway Hotel (14657993359).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-18 | content=Despite lacking AC the very large rooms with high ceilings make for a great space and the price is definitely right. Don't miss the authentic ambience of the restaurant and bar of this 1937-built hotel. Supposedly due to the hotel's popularity rooms are often difficult to get unless you book ahead, however, try hanging around and see if one magically opens up while you're there (especially if you're first offered a more expensive room). Upper triple rooms have balconies. Also one of the few places which serves beer with a plate of sliced cucumber. }} *{{sleep | name=Esplanade Chambers | alt= | url=http://www.esplanadechambers.com | email=esplanadechambers@yahoo.co.in | address=2 Chandni Chowk St | lat=22.56736 | long=88.3565 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2212 7101, +91 99 0313 2621 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single from ₹1,400, double deluxe ₹2,200, breakfast incl | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Very clean and reasonably quiet rooms, albeit not massive. Has a free and reliable Wi-Fi service. The staff and the manager are considered very helpful and accommodating. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Galaxy | alt= | url= | email= | address=3, Stuart Ln | lat=22.55726 | long=88.35424 | directions=off Sudder St | phone=+33 2252 4565 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,000-1,100 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Clean, simple, and convenient location with AC rooms. Has kitchen and drinking water supply facilities. The hotel staff are considered helpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Jaapon | alt= | url= | email= | address=30F Mirza Galib St | lat=22.5574 | long=88.3546 | directions=at the end of Sudder St | phone=+91 33 2252 0657, +91 33 2252 0658 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single: ₹650, AC doubles: ₹1,100 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Reasonably clean AC and non-AC rooms available with a very small private bathroom and cable TV. Beds are surprisingly comfortable given the thin and well-worn mattresses, but some rooms are chokingly musty - check before checking in. The hotel staff are not considered helpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Maria | alt= | url= | email= | address=5/1 Sudder St | lat=22.5578 | long=88.3541 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 0860 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=dorm ₹80, Very basic, creatively graffiti-ed rooms with and without attached bathroom from ₹300 as of Feb 2015. Grumpy service, cheap laundry, dank bathroom/toilet and no wifi. Very central location, '''takes no bookings, so arrive early''' (8:30AM onwards) | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Modern Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Stuart Ln | lat=22.55742 | long=88.35425 | directions=off Sudder St | phone=+91 33 2252 4960 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹100-250 | content=Not very modern, but cheap and fairly clean. ₹150 for a single with a shared cold-water bathroom. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Royal Palace | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 5280, +91 33 2252 4178 | hours= | price=₹350-750 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Clean and large A/C & non-A/C rooms with private bath, TV, STD/ISD. }} *{{sleep | name=Seacom Inn YMCA | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/hotels-in-kolkata/ | email=chowringheeymca@yahoo.com | address=25 Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5559 | long=88.3505 | directions=near corner with Kyd St | phone=+91 33 2249-2192 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Non A/C single ₹600, with A/C ₹850 | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=An extremely drab and dark hotel that appears not to have received a lick of paint since its founding in the mid-19th century. However, in some ways, that is the hotel's distinctive charm, and so it may appeal to strict traditionalists. There is a simple restaurant on the second floor. The food is nothing special, but the balcony offers a great view of the buzzing city below. }} *{{sleep | name=Sunflower Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.sunflowerguesthouse.com | email=sunflowerguesthouse@gmail.com | address=7 Royd St | lat=22.55253 | long=88.35607 | directions=200 m away intersection Park St and Mirza Ghalib St | phone=+91 33 2229 9401, +91 33 2229 8388 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,350 double | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=Clean and great location. Those who tote lots of luggage be warned there are stairs to climb to the top floor reception. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=DK international Hotel | alt= | url= | email=dkinhotel@gmail.com | address=11/1A Marquis St | lat=22.55648 | long=88.35594 | directions=near to Colin St corner | phone=+91 33 2252 2540, +91 33 2252 2666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double from ₹1,800+tax | content=All rooms A/C and breakfast included. Close to the Bangladesh bus stations. There are better deals out there but not quite as new as this place. }} * {{sleep | name=The Senator | alt= | url=http://thesenatorhotel.com/ | email= | address=15 Camac St | lat=22.5429 | long=88.3523 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2289 3000 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:OberoiGrandHotelKolkata gobeirne.jpg|thumb|The Oberoi Grand]] * {{sleep | name=The Astor | alt= | url=http://www.astorkolkata.com/ | email=sales@astorkolkata.com | address=15 Shakespeare Sarani | lat=22.5459 | long=88.35197 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22829957 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 22827430 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double: ₹5,900-10,200 | wikidata=Q68704706 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Kabab-e-Que restaurant phone +91 33 22829958 }} * {{sleep | name=Elgin Fairlawn | alt= | url=https://www.elginhotels.com/fairlawn.php | email=fairlawn@cal.vsnl.net.in | address=13/A Sudder St | lat=22.558674 | long=88.352687 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 1510, +91 33 2252 8767 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single: ₹5,000-5,600, double: ₹7,550-8,400 | wikidata=Q55610732 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=The building dates to 1783 with many colonial-era relics. }} * {{sleep | name=The Golden Parkk | alt= | url=http://www.goldenparkk.com/ | email=sales@thegoldenpark.com | address=13 Ho Chi Minh Sarani | lat=22.5476 | long=88.3496 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22883939 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 22889600 | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹8,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Housez 43 | alt= | url=https://thesparkhotels.com/hotel_details/hotel-housez-43 | email=booking.housez43@thesparkhotels.com | address=43 Mirza Ghalib St | lat=22.55533 | long=88.35433 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2227 6020, +91 7595067173 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rates start at ₹4,950 | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=All rooms equipped with air-conditioning, TV, and private bath. }} * {{sleep | name=The LaLiT Great Eastern | alt= | url=https://www.thelalit.com/the-lalit-kolkata/ | email= | address= | lat=22.5684 | long=88.3495 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4444-7777 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q15217311 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=Built in 1841, the Great Eastern Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Kolkata. The hotel has housed many famous personalities including Nikita Khrushchev and Nikolai Bulganin, Elizabeth II, Mark Twain, Dave Brubeck and possibly Ho Chi Minh. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lindsay | alt= | url=http://www.hotellindsay.com/ | email=sales@hotellindsay.com | address=8A/8B Lindsay St | lat=22.559426 | long=88.352754 | directions= | phone=+91 33 3021 8666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,600 double | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=The hotel is well-lit and clean. Its facilities, including a room minibar, hot water, tea and coffee, make it a good value four-star property. }} * {{sleep | name=Kenilworth Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.kenilworthhotels.com/russel-street-kolkata/ | email=reservationkol@kenilworthhotels.com | address=1 & 2, Little Russel St | lat=22.54633 | long=88.35022 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2282 3939 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2282 5136, +91 33 2282 3940, +91 33 6621 4100 | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹6,900-₹8,000 | wikidata=Q111402415 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi Grand | alt= | url=http://www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/ | email=reservations@oberoigroup.com | address=15, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.56159 | long=88.35109 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2249 2323 | tollfree=1800-11-2030 | fax=+91 33 2249 9427 | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$375-1,375, ₹10,000 | wikidata=Q5594620 | lastedit=2024-11-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com | email=resv.cal@theparkhotels.com | address=17, Park St | lat=22.5542 | long=88.3519 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2249 3121 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2249 4000 | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹9,950-12,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=The unassuming exterior hides an elegant and homely interior with stylish Indian features. Drink at Aqua (First Floor), Roxy (Ground Floor), and Someplace Else (Ground Floor). }} * {{sleep | name=Peerless Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=12 Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5626 | long=88.3514 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4400 3900 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹10,000 | wikidata=Q108541466 | lastedit=2024-11-18 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Walson | alt= | url=http://www.walson.bawahotels.com/ | email=bawawalson@bawahotels.com | address=5A Sudder St | lat=22.5578 | long=88.3538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 1512, +91 99033 29977 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=₹6,000-6,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=An upscale new venue that's breaking the trend from the Sudder St backpacker tide. 29 rooms }} ==Stay safe== Although most of Esplanade is considered safe, one noted problem here is the drug dealers around Sudder Street. However, as the dealers obviously do not want to draw undue attention to their activity, they are not persistent and are rarely a threat. ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Park Street Police Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.54962 | long=88.35632 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22268321, +91 33 22832100, +91 33 22276437 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content= }} ==Connect== There are other smaller internet cafes on Sudder St such as '''Net Freaks''', but they are often very busy. * {{listing | name=Gopal's Planet | alt= | url=http://www.facebook.com/Gopalsplanet | email=gopalsplanet@gmail.com | address=7 Tottie Ln | lat=22.55774 | long=88.35346 | directions=Coming from Sudder St, walk 50m (150ft) into Tottie Ln. On your left-hand side, same building as Raj's Guesthouse, ground floor | phone=+91 9674273616 | tollfree= | hours=8AM-11PM | price= | content=Friendly, quiet internet cafe off Sudder Street with relatively modern computers, AC and free chai (with Wi-Fi, printers, phone calls, etc.) They also rent bicycles and sell train tickets. Their coffee and snacks are good as well. }} * {{listing | name=Hotline Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=7, Sudder St | lat=22.55839 | long=88.35396 | directions=near the Astoria Hotel, at the back of the parking lot between Roop Shringar clothing shop and Metro Beauty Parlour. Identified with a large illuminated sign in red | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=It has a room jam-packed with high-speed computers, and charges ₹15/hr. They also sell CDs of various styles of Indian music for around ₹150/each and have a selection of hand-woven material and cotton clothing from all over India. The hotline also provides a coffee and snack service. }} ==Cope== {{Outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.57|88.35|zoom=14}} cc3foygmiakcsv8zoj1b6gfwsksxz4r 5090773 5090756 2025-07-10T12:52:59Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Sleep */ 5090773 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Kolkata Esplanade banner.jpg|pgname=Esplanade}} [[File:Esplanade Row East.jpg|thumb|Colonial-era buildings at Esplanade Row East]] '''Esplanade''' (এসপ্ল্যানেড ''Esplyāneḍ'') or '''Dharmatala''' (ধর্মতলা ''Dharmatalā'') is the heart of [[Kolkata]], with the mix of some colonial-era buildings with newer ones. It is the new central business district (CBD) of Kolkata and the place of choice for many large business houses, especially at Chowringhee Road (Jawaharlal Nehru Road) and Park Street (Mother Teresa Sarani). When the British started expanding their settlement outside [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh|B. B. D. Bagh]] in the mid-18th century, it was one of the first expansions. During the early British developments around the area, they built huge bungalows and houses all along the northern end of Chowringhee Rd. However, only a few of them still remains, including The Oberoi Grand, the Janbazar Building, the Chowringhee Mansions, the Asiatic Society and the majestic Indian Museum. ==Understand== [[File:Shaheed Minar Sd2175.jpg|thumb|Shaheed Minar]] This district covers the central areas of Kolkata, east of [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh|B. B. D. Bagh]] and the [[Kolkata/Maidan|Maidan]], covering the area around AJC Bose Rd (Lower Circular Rd), Chowringhee Road (Jawaharlal Nehru Road), Esplanade Row East (Sido Kanhu Dahar), Mayo Road, and Park Street (Mother Teresa Sarani). The area consists of neighbourhoods like Chowringhee, Entally, Esplanade, and Janbazar. ===Roads=== * '''Chowringhee Road''' (চৌরঙ্গী রোড ''Chauraṅgī Roḍ''), officially '''Jawaharlal Nehru Road''' (জওহরলাল নেহেরু রোড ''Jaoharlāl Neheru Roḍ''), runs north-south from the junction with Esplanade Row East and Central Avenue (Dorina Crossing) to the junction with AJC Bose Road and Ashutosh Mukherjee Road (Exide More). It is lined up with trees at one side and high-rise buildings at the other, and most of the buildings are major commercial establishments of Kolkata. * '''Park Street''' (পার্ক স্ট্রিট ''Pārk Sṭriṭ''), officially '''Mother Teresa Sarani''' (মাদার টেরিজা সরণি ''Mādār Ṭerijā Saraṇi''), runs west-east from Chowringhee Road to AJC Bose Road, and eventually to [[Kolkata/South|Park Circus]]. It is Kolkata's foremost dining area with many restaurants and pubs, which also showcases fashionable clothes, books from all over the world and so on. Park Street has retained the British spirit and is so well decorated during Christmas and New Year as if it is still part of the [[British Empire]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.557|88.362|height=450|width=450|zoom=14|name=Map of Esplanade}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} {{Mapmask|22.5552,88.3503|22.5477,88.3482|22.5416,88.3473|22.5410,88.3593|22.5467,88.3614|22.5464,88.3617|22.5457,88.3627|22.5455,88.3629|22.5435,88.3657|22.5431,88.3658|22.5429,88.3661|22.5430,88.3665|22.5434,88.3667|22.5437,88.3675|22.5437,88.3676|22.5449,88.3706|22.5453,88.3706|22.5469,88.3708|22.5505,88.3712|22.5510,88.3712|22.5522,88.3716|22.5520,88.3724|22.5517,88.3724|22.5516,88.3731|22.5517,88.3734|22.5514,88.3744|22.5513,88.3751|22.5571,88.3756|22.5580,88.3757|22.5589,88.3756|22.5596,88.3755|22.5598,88.3759|22.5606,88.3761|22.5614,88.3767|22.5616,88.3769|22.5615,88.3776|22.5616,88.3778|22.5630,88.3781|22.5631,88.3773|22.5634,88.3766|22.5635,88.3759|22.5633,88.3750|22.5633,88.3746|22.5632,88.3734|22.5633,88.3732|22.5639,88.3726|22.5646,88.3717|22.5652,88.3703|22.5657,88.3689|22.5651,88.3687|22.5650,88.3687|22.5638,88.3683|22.5619,88.3675|22.5606,88.3669|22.5607,88.3655|22.5608,88.3647|22.5606,88.3634|22.5603,88.3623|22.5605,88.3623|22.5619,88.3626|22.5620,88.3624|22.5625,88.3625|22.5625,88.3626|22.5634,88.3629|22.5634,88.3630|22.5644,88.3637|22.5650,88.3638|22.5662,88.3641|22.5663,88.3634|22.5666,88.3627|22.5669,88.3623|22.5672,88.3621|22.5680,88.3612|22.5683,88.3603|22.5686,88.3604|22.5709,88.3614|22.5719,88.3598|22.5724,88.3587|22.5705,88.3580|22.5710,88.3562|22.5710,88.3562|22.5720,88.3531|22.5722,88.3526|22.5726,88.3513|22.5727,88.3509|22.5671,88.3488|22.5661,88.3485|22.5648,88.3481|22.5647,88.3477|22.5640,88.3466|22.5637,88.3468|22.5630,88.3470|22.5626,88.3470|22.5620,88.3468|22.5559,88.3446|22.5555,88.3443|22.5552,88.3443|22.5552,88.3446|22.5553,88.3448|22.5552,88.3478|22.5551,88.3489|22.5553,88.3495|22.5552,88.3503}} ===By bus=== {{marker|type=go|name=Esplanade Bus Terminus|lat=22.56303|long=88.34997|wikidata=Q124681311}} also serves several city bus routes, not just the long-distance ones. It is the most obvious way to get here, though there are bus stops to alight at specific destinations within the district. ===By metro=== Esplanade is served by metrro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}} and {{rint|kolkata|2}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful to get here from northern and southern parts of the city, while Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful to get here from [[Howrah]]. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is the fastest way to connect the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah, avoiding the congestion at the Howrah Bridge and Vidyasagar Setu. === By tram === There are only two active routes from {{marker|type=go|name=Esplanade Tram Terminus|lat=22.565|long=88.35|image=Esplanade tram terminus.jpg}}, one from [[Kolkata/North|Shyambazar]], and another from [[Kolkata/North|Gariahat]]. Despite being eco-friendly, this is not the most practical way to get here, especially in peak hours when the roads are congested. ==See== [[File:The 42 from Maidan.jpg|thumb|The 42]] [[File:Metropolitan Building (Kolkata).jpg|thumb|Metropolitan Building]] * {{see | name=The 42 | alt=দ্য ফোরটি-টু ''Dya Phōrṭi-ṭu'' | url=http://www.the42.in/ | email= | address=42B, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.54835 | long=88.34975 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7711913 | lastedit=2023-04-14 | content=A {{m|260}} high box-shaped apartment building, and the tallest building of the city. }} * {{see | name=Bow Barracks | alt=বো ব্যারাক ''Bo Byārāk'' | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4950610 | lastedit=2022-12-13 | content=A small hub of mainly Anglo-Indian population who have lived here for generations. According to a legend, Bow Barracks was a garrison's mess built for the army during World War I. When the soldiers left India, they handed over the flats to the Anglo-Indians who took them on rent. Bow Barracks is also famous for its Christmas celebration. }} * {{see | name=Esplanade Mansions | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Esplanade Row East | lat=22.566389 | long=88.348889 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68470889 | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=One of the buildings previously owned by Jewish businessman David Elias Ezra. The residential building was built in the Art Nouveau architecture style. As of 2022, it is owned by the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) and houses commercial, railways and other government offices. }} * {{see | name=House of Henry Louis Vivian Derozio | alt= | url= | email= | address=155A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.559764 | long=88.366676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68597114 | lastedit=2022-11-29 | content=Derozio was a young social reformer and the founder of the Young Bengal group. }} * {{see | name=Metropolitan Building | alt=Whiteways and Laidlaw Building | url=http://www.wmf.org/project/metropolitan-building | email= | address=140, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5637 | long=88.3516 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6825020 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=It was a famous department store in Kolkata during the British period. This neo-baroque emporium—with domes, a clock tower and arched recessed windows—exemplifies fashionable shopping during the British Raj. }} * {{see | name=Shaheed Minar | alt=শহীদ মিনার ''Śahīd Minār'', former name: Ochterlony Monument | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.56286 | long=88.34923 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7461557 | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Locally known as simply "Monument", the British colonial monument is 48 meters high. It is rededicated to the Indian freedom activists in 1969 and the monument was renamed Shaheed Minar. }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indian Musium, Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Courtyard of the Indian Museum]] * {{see | name=Baker Hostel | alt=বেকার হোস্টেল ''Bekār Hosṭel'' | url= | email= | address=8, Smith Ln | lat=22.558854 | long=88.358986 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q90092840 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A historical building founded in 1910 by Edward Norman Baker as a government hostel for the male students of Maulana Azad College. The rooms 23 and 24 of the building are converted into a museum in honour of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father and the first president of [[Bangladesh]]. Room no. 24 (Bangabandhu Memorial Room) contains Rahman's used bed, table and chair. There is a small library where his books are arranged. }} * {{see | name=Currency Building | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Surendra Mohan Ghosh Sarani | lat=22.570556 | long=88.350278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56245193 | lastedit=2022-12-02 | content=A three-story Italianate structure, consisting of floors covered by marble and Chunar sandstone. During its use as a currency office, the central hall contained the exchange counters for banknotes, gold, silver, and small change. In 1994, authorities decided to raze the building due to structural deterioration. However, the building was saved from being completely demolished and was renovated between 2005 and 2019. On 11 January 2020, the building was formally dedicated as a public museum at its reopening ceremony. }} * {{see | name=Indian Museum | alt= | url=http://www.indianmuseumkolkata.org/ | email=indianmuseumkolkata@gmail.com | address=27, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.558056 | long=88.350833 | directions=metro: {{station|Park Street|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone=+91 33 2249 5699 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 249 5696 | hours=closed on Mondays | price=Admission: ₹10 (for Indian citizens) ₹150 (for foreign citizens) | wikidata=Q1364900 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=Established in 1814, this was the first such museum in Asia. Among its famous collection is the urn that held the ashes of the Buddha (though this is generally not on display), a Pillar of Ashoka (the three-lion symbol which became the official emblem of the Republic of India) and numerous rare antiques. A varied collection of exhibits include unique fossils, Buddhist Gandhara art and an Egyptian mummy. The Indian Museum has a library of excellent historical value, with a special focus on the British Raj and Kolkata. }} * {{see | name=Smaranika Tram Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=6, Esplanade Row E | lat=22.56525 | long=88.34995 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|blue|green}}; tram: {{station|Esplanade|tram}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=3PM–8PM (closed Th) | price=₹5 | wikidata=Q56682452 | lastedit=2024-03-19 | content=A museum housed inside a decommissioned tram, showcasing the 150-year-old heritage of the tram system in Kolkata. There's a cafeteria in the museum which serves basic tea and coffee. The cafeteria is considered a great place for ''adda''... }} ===Religious attractions=== [[File:Kolkata Tipu Sultan's Mosque3.jpg|thumb|Tipu Sultan Mosque]] * {{see | name=Bauddha Dharmankur Sabha | alt= | url= | email= | address=1 Buddhist Temple St | lat=22.569523 | long=88.356614 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2211 7138 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65080479 | content=A Buddhist monastery established in 1892 and run by the Bengal Buddhist Association. The distinct red building mostly consists of a school and a guest house. There is a very small Buddhist shrine tucked away on the 1st floor. }} * {{see | name=Beth-El Synagogue | alt=বেথ এল সিনাগগ | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q40670133 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content= }} * {{see | name=Carey Baptist Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB Ganguly St, Bowbazar | lat=22.57125 | long=88.35512 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2236 7254 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q66313056 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content= }} * {{see | name=Church of the Lord Jesus | alt=Prabhu Jisur Girja; প্রভু যীশুর গির্জা | url= | email= | address=Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Rd, Taltala | lat=22.558511 | long=88.357743 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3585996 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Formerly a Church of Scotland Presbyterian, the Catholic church is a unique one in the city with most of religious services are done in Bengali. }} * {{see | name=Firinghi Kalibari | alt=ফিরিঙ্গি কালীবাড়ি ''Phiriṅgi Kālībāṛi'' | url= | email= | address=244, BB Ganguly St, Bowbazar | lat=22.57025 | long=88.35898 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5452082 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=An old Kali temple, said to be 500 years old. The temple is called "Firinghi Kalibari" since Portuguese-born folk singer Anthony Firingee used to come in the temple. Here Goddess Kali is worshipped as "Shri Shri Siddheshwari Kalimata Thakurani". }} * {{see | name=Lower Circular Road Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.5478 | long=88.3637 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19893393 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mother Teresa’s tomb | alt=Mother House | url=http://motherteresa.org/03_learn/pilgrimage-to-Mother-Teresa-tomb.html | email= | address=54A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5531 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2217 5267 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-03 | content=The Missionaries of Charity is a new order formed in 1950 by Mother Teresa. Their vow to give wholehearted and free service to the poorest of the poor was put into action with the setting up of several homes. Visit Mother Teresa’s tomb at the Mother House, Nirmal Hriday (home for the dying), Shanti Nagar (for lepers) and Nirmala Shishu Bhavan (the children’s home). }} * {{see | name=South Park Street cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park St | lat=22.546568 | long=88.36039 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2972549 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=The final resting place for early British traders and settlers. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan Mosque | alt=টিপু সুলতান মসজিদ ''Ṭipu Sultān Masjid''| url= | email= | address=185, Lenin Sarani | lat=22.5653 | long=88.3518 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tipu Sultan Mosque | image=Kolkata Tipu Sultan's Mosque3.jpg | wikidata=Q3349172 | content=Built in 1832 by Prince Ghulam Mohammed, the youngest son of Tipu Sultan. People from all sections of society and religions are allowed to visit and take pictures of this historical premise. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Curzon Park | alt=Surendranath Park | url= | email= | address=Rashmoni Ave | lat=22.5649 | long=88.3498 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68476643 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content= }} * {{do | name=Indira Gandhi Sarani | alt=Red Road | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55901 | long=88.34577 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24943898 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=A road running from Raj Bhavan to Fort William West Gate, surrounded by greenery. The road is known for a large parade on Republic Day (26 January) and the [[Durga Puja|Durga Puja Carnival]]. }} * {{do | name=Jyoti Cinema | alt= | url= | email= | address=32/1, Lenin Sarani | lat=22.5636 | long=88.3535 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6319406 | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=One of the most popular and oldest single-screen movie theatres of Kolkata. Hindi films and English Hollywood films used to be screened regularly. The theatre had a steady audience for its comfortable seating, good screen quality and stereophonic sound. }} * {{do | name=Metro Cinema | alt= | url=https://kolktafatafat.com/ | email= | address=8, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5641 | long=88.3494 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6824536 | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=A uniplex cinema hall and a heritage building with Art Deco architecture. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française du Bengale | alt= | url=http://bengale.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Park Mansions, 57A Park St | lat=22.55251 | long=88.35322 | directions=upon arriving at Park Mansions, enter the gate facing Park St at Mirza Ghalib St-Park St crossing | phone=+91 33 4006 4801 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-6PM (closed Su) | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The French language school in Kolkata, promoting the study of French and encouraging international cultural exchange and relations. }} * {{listing | name=The Asiatic Society | alt= | url=https://www.asiaticsocietykolkata.org/ | email= | address=1, Park St | lat=22.554913 | long=88.351135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q374902 | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Max Mueller Bhavan Kolkata | alt=Goethe-Institut | url=https://goethe.de/kolkata | email= | address=Gate 4, Park Mansions, 57A Park St | lat=22.55315 | long=88.35354 | directions=upon arriving at Park Mansions, take Mirza Ghalib St and enter the leftmost gate | phone=+91 33 2264 6602 | tollfree= | hours=9AM-6PM (closed Su) | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The German language school in Kolkata, promoting the study of German and encouraging international cultural exchange and relations. }} ==Buy== [[File:India - Kolkata Hogg market - 3366.jpg|thumb|Meat shops at New Market]] The Esplanade area is the central marketplace for the people of Kolkata. There are shops ranging from computer peripherals to paint brushes and accessories, from cloth merchants to "foreign" (ফরেন ''pharen'') goods. There are cinemas and restaurants. Major chain retailers include '''[https://www.pantaloons.com/ Pantaloons]''' (22, Camac St). * {{buy | name=Dr B. C. Roy Market | alt=Maidan Market, Bidhan Market | url= | email= | address=Dufferin Rd | lat=22.56218 | long=88.35053 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-28 | content=It has garments, sports goods and other shops. }} *{{buy | name=Eagle | url= | email= | address=12/2 Lindsay St | lat=22.5594257 | long=88.3527538 | directions=in front on New Market | phone=+91 33 98 023 6663 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A good place to pick up Indian art films. }} * {{buy | name=Earthcare Books | alt= | url= | email= | address=10 Middleton St | lat=22.54942 | long=88.35047| directions=Maidan metro station | phone=+91 33 2229-6551 | hours= | price=| content=A wonderful independent bookstore tucked away in an alley leading from Middleton St. As the name suggests, the bookstore specializes in environmental titles but also has a wide range of local subjects and poetry. }} * {{buy | name=Emami Shoppers' City | alt= | url= |email= | address=3 Lord Sinha Rd | lat=22.5445 | long=88.3487 | directions= |phone=+91 33 2282 0675| fax= | hours= | price= | content=Coffee shops, bookshop, designer wear, toy shops, boutiques, footwear stores, electronic stores, discotheque, beauty salons, gift shops, game parlours, multiplex }} * {{buy | name=Entally Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=58, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.55877 | long=88.36642 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-08 | content=One of the old markets in Kolkata. Shops sell ready-made garments, vegetables, groceries, textiles, margarine, fish and fruits. This market was once famously known for its dairy product shops that provided high quality dairy items such as paneer, ghee, yogurt, condensed milk, cheese and butter. }} * {{buy | name=Handicrafts | alt=Between Sudder St and Surendranath Banerjee Road | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55811 | long=88.35272 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has several shops selling handicrafts. The largest is at the corner of Surendranath Banerjee Road. }} * {{buy | name=Metro Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Ho Chi Minh Sarani | lat=22.5473 | long=88.3488 | directions=beside Tata Centre, near to Maidan metro station| phone=+91 33 30525473, +91 33 30525474, +91 33 22883802 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Locally manufactured readymade clothes. Many shops deal only in imported garments, mostly from Bangkok. The latest footwear and lingerie. Good parking facility. }} * {{buy | name=Mirza Ghalib Street | alt=Free School Street | url= | address= | lat=22.55829 | long=88.35481| directions= | phone= | hours= | price= | content=It is famous for its second-hand bookshops and second-hand record stalls. Rummaging through the LPs for sale on the street, one may find real gems from the jazz age. }} * {{buy | name=New Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bertram St, Lenin Sarani | lat=22.5607 | long=88.3532 | directions=E of Lindsay Street {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M–F 10:30AM–7:30PM, S 10:30AM–2:30PM | price= | wikidata=Q7010004 | lastedit=2023-01-24 | content=One of the oldest surviving markets in the city. Opened in 1874, it was named Sir Stuart Hogg Market after the commissioner Sir Stuart Hogg and it is still locally known as such. Although the beautiful fountain and benches at the market no longer exist, its popularity has not waned and the beautiful Gothic clock tower recalls the British heritage of the market. New Market is a good place to sample Indian sweet delicacies and generally soak up the atmosphere of Kolkata. There are also a few handicraft stalls inside. The market is in a large red brick building on Lindsay Street (the road parallel Sudder Street to the north). It has got over 2,000 stalls and is a bargain hunter's delight. The shops are arranged merchandise-wise. It is supposed to be the ultimate marketing experience in Kolkata. }} * {{buy | name=Oxford Book Store | alt= | url=http://www.oxfordbookstore.com | email= | address=15 Park St | lat=22.55449 | long=88.35125 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2229 5455 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large and well-organised bookstore. Good selection of books on India and by Indian writers. Discount books and cafe (Cha Bar, see [[#Drink|Drink]] section) on the second floor. }} * {{buy | name=Shree Ram Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.55863 | long=88.35084 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10:00-20:00 from Tuesday to Saturday and from 13:00 - 20:00. on Mondays. Sunday holiday. | price= | content=Full of garment shops. }} * {{buy | name=Treasure Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55911 | long=88.35269 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M 1PM-8PM, Tu-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Vardaan Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=25-A, Camac St | lat=22.5483 | long=88.3536 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22812724, +91 33 22874082 | fax=| hours= | price= | content=Forerunner of today's large shopping malls, it was the earliest air-conditioned market. Little shops and stalls line the walls of this mall selling shoes, handbags, toys, saris, salwar suits and western wear for ladies, shirts, tee shirts and trousers for men and children's clothes for all ages, chocolates and snacks. }} * {{buy | name=Westside | alt= | url=http://www.mywestside.com/webpages/innerpages/storedetail.aspx?Id=7 | email=mywestside@trent-tata.com | address=Block D22 Camac St | lat=22.5468 | long=88.3531 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22817312 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | content=The Westside stores have numerous departments to meet the varied shopping needs of customers. These include menswear, women’s wear, kid’s wear, footwear, cosmetics, perfumes and handbags, household accessories, lingerie, and gifts. Fashionable goods are priced a little on the higher side. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Jimmy's Kitchen | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/1A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.544184 | long=88.360276 | directions=AJC Bose Rd-Shakespeare Sarani crossing | phone=+91 33 2290 7139 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese food. Drinks available. Popular items: Thai soup, noodles, lung fung soup, prawn, crispy chilli chicken, roast pork chilli, sweet corn soup. Jimmy's Kitchen has two branches: 1. 36F Ruby Hospital Road, 2. 14D, Lindsay Street. }} * {{eat | name=Jyoti Vihar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ho Chi Minh Sarani | lat=22.54708 | long=88.35059 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2282 9791 | hours= | price= | content=Offers clean and tasty South Indian food. It is completely vegetarian. It is on the same street as the US Consulate. }} * {{eat | name=Kabab-e-Que | alt=The Astor | url=http://www.astorkolkata.com/restnbars.php | email= | address=15 Shakespeare Sarani | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Astor Hotel | phone=+91-33 22829957-58 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They serve Indian and continental cuisine, but what has made this outlet famous is the variety of kababs that goes wonderfully well with drinks. }} *{{eat |name=Khalsa |alt=|url=|email=|address=Madge Ln |lat=|long=|directions=on left side when entering Madge Ln, from Sudder St|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2019-02-10|content=offers excellent and cheap Punjabi food. }} *{{eat | name=Mission Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=20 Ganesh Chandra Ave | lat=22.5679 | long=88.3558 | directions= | phone= | hours= | price=| content=Vegetarian fast food spot. Dosa, chaats and curry are served at high tables. The cafe is known for its chole bhature, a chickpea dish served in a phuchka shell. Turnover is fast here, not even stools to sit on, but it is nonetheless tasty. }} * {{eat | name=Nizam's | alt=নিজামস ''Nijāms'' | url= | email= | address=23/24 Hogg St | lat=22.5617 | long=88.3536 | directions=junction of Hogg St and Corporation Pl | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kolkata 2024 random Moments (13).jpg | lastedit=2025-02-21 | content=Opened in 1932, the restaurant is known for the "kathi kebab roll". The roll initially became popular among the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh|B. B. D. Bagh]] officers during lunch time, then became an iconic food of Kolkata. It also serves a special potato roll named after Indian actor Amitabh Bachchan. It has a separate beef counter that serves beef kebab, bhuna, chaap, biryani and khiri (cow udder). }} ===Bowbazar=== * {{eat | name=Bhim Chandra Nag | alt=ভীম চন্দ্র নাগ ''Bhīm Candra Nāg'' | url= | email= | address=5, Nirmal Chandra St | lat=22.568681 | long=88.360246 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2212 0465, +91 33 2269 7908 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Bhim Chandra Nag sweet shop at Bowbazar, Kolkata, WB.jpg | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=The 200-year-old shop is famous for sandesh. It is the inventor of ''leḍikeni'' (লেডিকেনি), named after the wife of Lord Canning, the then-Viceroy of India. }} * {{eat | name=Naba Krishna Guin | alt=নব কৃষ্ণ গুঁই ''Naba Kr̥ṣṇa Gũi'' | url= | email= | address=9B, Nirmal Chandra St | lat=22.56862 | long=88.36022 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 200-year-old traditional sweet shop is famous for its fried sweets (ভাজা মিষ্টি ''bhājā miṣṭi''). }} ===Chittaranjan Avenue and Chowringhee Road=== * {{eat | name=Aheli | alt= | url= | email=| address=Peerless Inn Hotel, 12, Chowringhee Rd | lat= | long= | directions=| phone=+91 33 2228-0301, +91 33 4400-3900 |fax=| hours= | price=| content=Authentic Bengali food, served in brass utensils in a Bengali marriage environment. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Anadi Cabin | alt=অনাদি কেবিন ''Anādi Kebin'' | url= | email= | address=9A, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.56327 | long=88.35155 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Anadi Cabin - Restaurant - 9A Chowringhee Road - Kolkata 2015-01-30 5705.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for Mughlai paratha (মোগলাই পরোটা ''Moglāi Paroṭā''). }} * {{eat | name=Ban Thai | alt= | url=http://www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_kolkata/dining.asp | email= | address=Oberoi Grand, 15 Chowringhee Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2249-2323 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 7-11:30PM, Sa Su 12:30-3PM and 7-11:30PM | price=Around ₹4,000 for two people. Drinks extra | content=For an authentic taste of Thailand, visit Baan Thai. Widely recognised as the premier Thai restaurant in the country. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Chung-Wah | alt= | url= | email= | address=13A, Chittaranjan Ave | lat= 22.5671| long=88.3538 | directions=metro: {{station|Chandni Chowk|1}} | phone=+91 33 22377003 | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest and best places to sample Chinese food. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=K.C. Das Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=11A&B, Chittaranjan Ave | lat=22.56545 | long=88.3515 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=Best known for its rasgullas, which is fondly called "rosogolla" (রসগোল্লা) in Bengali. }} * {{eat | name=New Embassy | alt= | url= | email= | address=53A, Chowringhee Ln | lat= | long=| directions=right on Chowringhee Rd between Shakespeare Sarani crossing and AJC Bose Rd crossing | phone=+91 33 22827490 |fax= |hours= | price= | content=Delicious Chinese food. }} * {{eat | name=Rallis, Esplanade | alt= | url= | email= | address=10D, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.56306 | long=88.35131 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=Kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=Vegetarian restaurant known for various kinds of snacks. Chats and South Indian foods are common. Famous for non-alcoholic drinks including various kinds of milkshakes. }} * {{eat | name=Sip & Sandwich | url= | email= | address=1 Shakespeare Sarani, Theatre Road AC Market, Elgin | lat=22.54605 | long=88.34842 | directions=Chowringhee Rd corner| phone=+91 9830605145| hours= | price=| content= Vegetarian fast food }} ===Mirza Ghalib Street=== * {{eat |name=Kathleen's |address=Mirza Ghalib St |content=Pastry shop and an eclectic mix of cuisines dominated by Indian and Chinese styles. }} * {{eat | name=Mocambo | alt= | url= | email= | address=25B Mirza Ghalib St | lat=22.55301 | long=88.35307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2265 4300 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=mains ₹100-300 | content=Same owners as Peter Cat, but here the cuisine is a bit more rounded. Continental, Indian and even some Chinese dishes are served in upscale surroundings. }} *{{eat | name=Raj's Spanish Cafe |alt=| url= | email= | address=7, Sudder St | lat=22.55815 | long=88.35376 | directions=hard-to-find alleyway entrance close to intersection Mirza Ghalib St | phone=+91 33 4001 4373|tollfree=|fax=| hours=8AM-10PM | price=mains ₹100 |lastedit=2019-02-10| content=Serves breakfast and espresso-based coffees. Mexican, pizza, and other Western staples. }} ===Park Street=== * {{eat | name=Drive Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=10 Middleton St | lat=22.54938 | long=88.35041 | directions=same as Earthcare Books | phone=+91 33 2217-2247 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Meals from around ₹70 | content=An outdoor restaurant offering a wide range of good vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare (Indian/Chinese). AC area is available, the staff speaks good English and is friendly. }} * {{eat | name=Flury's | alt= | url=http://www.flurysindia.com | email= | address=18 Park St | lat=22.55417 | long=88.35112 | directions=metro: {{station|Park Street|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone=+91 33 22297664 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 7AM-8PM, M 10AM-6PM | price= | content=A popular and stylish cafe serving a good variety of baked goods and various coffees, sandwiches and entrees. A great place for breakfast or lunch. Baked goods ₹80-₹100, drinks ₹80, meals ₹600-₹1000. }} * {{eat | name=Gangaur | alt= | url= | email=| address=2 Russel St | lat= | long= | directions=| phone=+91 33 22658437| fax=| hours= | price=| content=Serves a variety of vegetarian food but is famous for its Rajasthani or Marwari food. }} * {{eat | name=Kwality | alt= | url= | email= | address=17, Park St | lat=22.5538 | long=88.3519 | directions=next to Oxford Book Shop| phone=| hours= | price=Mains from ₹100| content=Been around for years with sharply dressed waiters serving tasty tandoori and north Indian food to well-off locals. Try their Chhola-bhatura. }} * {{eat | name=Moulin Rouge | alt=not to be confused with Paris night club | url= | email= | address=31, Park St | lat= | long= | directions=| phone=+91 33 2229 9397| fax= | hours= | price=| content= }} * {{eat | name=Oasis | alt= | url= | email=| address=33, Park St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2229 9033| hours= | price=| content=Cosy restaurant with variety of foods. Has a small bar service counter with three stalls. }} * {{eat | name=Peter Cat | alt= | url= | email=| address=18, Park St | lat=22.55418 | long=88.35111| directions=metro: {{station|Park Street|city=kolkata|blue}}| phone=+91 33 2229 8841 | hours= | price=| content=Very popular for its ''chello kababs''. However, their service has not received the best reviews. Serves Indian, tandoori and Continental fare. }} * {{eat | name=Shiraz Golden Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=135, Park St | lat=22.546484 | long=88.361926 | directions=near AJC Bose Rd crossing | phone=+91 33 3099 0175 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-11:30PM | price= | content=Biryani and Mughlai food. Popular items: firni, mutton biryani, brain masala, chicken tikka, chicken reshmi butter masala, mutton haleem. It has four food outlets in Kolkata: Kankurgachi, Salt Lake Sector III, Ajay Nagar, and Nagerbazar. }} * {{eat | name=Waldorf | alt= | url= | email= | address=13 D, Russel St | lat=22.5532 | long=88.3512 | directions=near crossing with Park St| phone=+91 33 65354952| fax=| hours= | price=| content=Serves delicious Chinese food }} ===Sudder Street=== * {{eat | name=Blue Sky Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=3, Sudder St | lat=22.5579 | long=88.3539 | directions=on the corner of Chowringhee Ln | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2019-02-10| content=The food is cheap, the place is clean and the service is truly fantastic. Great if you are on an extended stay as they offer both Indian and some Western food. You will not find nicer waiters anywhere. Try the freshly squeezed juices. }} * {{eat | name=Curd Corner | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sudder St | lat= | long= | directions=near junction with Chowringhee Ln | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-18 | content=This small hole-in-the-wall eatery is quite an institution in the area, and a generation of travellers have gorged themselves on the fresh and thick yoghurt. Check out the filter coffee and 'mock' cappuccino. Service staff don't speak English, which makes it hard when their menu is in English. }} ==Drink== === Alcohol === * {{drink | name=Big Ben | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Kenilworth, Little Russell Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} *{{drink | name=Fairlawn Beer Garden | alt= | url=http://www.fairlawnhotel.com/ | email= | address=13/A Sudder St | lat=22.55834 | long=88.35267 | directions=inside Hotel Fairlawn | phone=+91 33 2252 1510 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Only serves beer. Eccentric atmosphere with greenery everywhere. Famous among travellers and volunteers. Great place for meeting people and early evening drinking. Snacks and dinner available. }} * {{drink | name=The Myx | alt= | url= | email= | address=20G Park St | lat=22.55214 | long=88.35278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Nocturne | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shakespeare Sarani | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Olypub | alt= | url= | email= | address=23 Park St | lat=22.5534 | long= 88.3522| directions= | phone=+91 33 64520472 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 11AM to 11PM| price= | content=A fine afforable bar, famous for the beer and the beef steak. }} * {{drink | name=Shisha Bar Stock Exchange, The Factory Outlet | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Camac Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} *{{drink | name=Super Pub | url= | email= | address=Sudder St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite of Fire Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Air-conditioned and clean place. Serves beer and hard liquor and seasonal fruit juice. Snacks and eateries are reasonably priced. }} ===Coffees=== There are a number of cafe chains (Barista, Cafe Coffee Day, etc.) on Park Street, near the junction with Mirza Ghalib Street. *{{drink | name=Cha Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=2nd floor, Oxford Book Store, Park St | lat=22.5539 | long=88.3519 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A modern and chic cafe with a great selection of teas, including herbal, and smoothies. The coffee however is mediocre. A large window offers views of street life below, while the books provide a literary dimension. }} * {{drink |name=The Street | address=GF, Park Hotel, Park St |content=The universal colours of chic decor, black and red, are used extensively to give this cafe a warm but modern feel. Good selection of coffees and healthy snacks opposed to what the name might make you think. This cafe is about as far from representing Kolkata street life as you could possibly get, but it makes a good alternative to the ubiquitous ''Baristas'' and ''Coffee Days''. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== Sudder Street is at the centre of Kolkata's backpacker area, and many of the budget hotels geared towards travellers are on and around this street. * {{sleep | name=Astoria Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.astoria.in | email=astoria@hotmail.com | address=Sudder St | lat=22.55807 | long=88.35428 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 9679, +91 90516 88123 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,850-3,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Clean, large, albeit drab, rooms with private bathrooms. It has a variety of options for dining and also has fitness amenities. The hotel staff are usually considered helpful, though the receptionist is sometimes considered rude and unhelpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Bhagirathi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Broadway Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.broadwayhotel.in/ | email=contact@broadwayhotel.in | address=27A Ganesh Chandra Ave, Chandni Chowk | lat=22.566384 | long=88.357758 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22363930, +91 33 2236 3931 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout=24 hours from when you check in | price=₹775 double with private bathroom | image=Calcutta's Broadway Hotel (14657993359).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-18 | content=Despite lacking AC the very large rooms with high ceilings make for a great space and the price is definitely right. Don't miss the authentic ambience of the restaurant and bar of this 1937-built hotel. Supposedly due to the hotel's popularity rooms are often difficult to get unless you book ahead, however, try hanging around and see if one magically opens up while you're there (especially if you're first offered a more expensive room). Upper triple rooms have balconies. Also one of the few places which serves beer with a plate of sliced cucumber. }} *{{sleep | name=Esplanade Chambers | alt= | url=http://www.esplanadechambers.com | email=esplanadechambers@yahoo.co.in | address=2 Chandni Chowk St | lat=22.56736 | long=88.3565 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2212 7101, +91 99 0313 2621 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single from ₹1,400, double deluxe ₹2,200, breakfast incl | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Very clean and reasonably quiet rooms, albeit not massive. Has a free and reliable Wi-Fi service. The staff and the manager are considered very helpful and accommodating. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Galaxy | alt= | url= | email= | address=3, Stuart Ln | lat=22.55726 | long=88.35424 | directions=off Sudder St | phone=+33 2252 4565 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,000-1,100 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Clean, simple, and convenient location with AC rooms. Has kitchen and drinking water supply facilities. The hotel staff are considered helpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Jaapon | alt= | url= | email= | address=30F Mirza Galib St | lat=22.5574 | long=88.3546 | directions=at the end of Sudder St | phone=+91 33 2252 0657, +91 33 2252 0658 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single: ₹650, AC doubles: ₹1,100 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Reasonably clean AC and non-AC rooms available with a very small private bathroom and cable TV. Beds are surprisingly comfortable given the thin and well-worn mattresses, but some rooms are chokingly musty - check before checking in. The hotel staff are not considered helpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Maria | alt= | url= | email= | address=5/1 Sudder St | lat=22.5578 | long=88.3541 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 0860 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=dorm ₹80, Very basic, creatively graffiti-ed rooms with and without attached bathroom from ₹300 as of Feb 2015. Grumpy service, cheap laundry, dank bathroom/toilet and no wifi. Very central location, '''takes no bookings, so arrive early''' (8:30AM onwards) | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Modern Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Stuart Ln | lat=22.55742 | long=88.35425 | directions=off Sudder St | phone=+91 33 2252 4960 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹100-250 | content=Not very modern, but cheap and fairly clean. ₹150 for a single with a shared cold-water bathroom. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Royal Palace | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 5280, +91 33 2252 4178 | hours= | price=₹350-750 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Clean and large A/C & non-A/C rooms with private bath, TV, STD/ISD. }} *{{sleep | name=Seacom Inn YMCA | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/hotels-in-kolkata/ | email=chowringheeymca@yahoo.com | address=25 Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5559 | long=88.3505 | directions=near corner with Kyd St | phone=+91 33 2249-2192 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Non A/C single ₹600, with A/C ₹850 | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=An extremely drab and dark hotel that appears not to have received a lick of paint since its founding in the mid-19th century. However, in some ways, that is the hotel's distinctive charm, and so it may appeal to strict traditionalists. There is a simple restaurant on the second floor. The food is nothing special, but the balcony offers a great view of the buzzing city below. }} *{{sleep | name=Sunflower Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.sunflowerguesthouse.com | email=sunflowerguesthouse@gmail.com | address=7 Royd St | lat=22.55253 | long=88.35607 | directions=200 m away intersection Park St and Mirza Ghalib St | phone=+91 33 2229 9401, +91 33 2229 8388 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,350 double | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=Clean and great location. Those who tote lots of luggage be warned there are stairs to climb to the top floor reception. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=DK international Hotel | alt= | url= | email=dkinhotel@gmail.com | address=11/1A Marquis St | lat=22.55648 | long=88.35594 | directions=near to Colin St corner | phone=+91 33 2252 2540, +91 33 2252 2666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double from ₹1,800+tax | content=All rooms A/C and breakfast included. Close to the Bangladesh bus stations. There are better deals out there but not quite as new as this place. }} * {{sleep | name=The Senator | alt= | url=http://thesenatorhotel.com/ | email= | address=15 Camac St | lat=22.5429 | long=88.3523 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2289 3000 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:OberoiGrandHotelKolkata gobeirne.jpg|thumb|The Oberoi Grand]] * {{sleep | name=The Astor | alt= | url=http://www.astorkolkata.com/ | email=sales@astorkolkata.com | address=15 Shakespeare Sarani | lat=22.5459 | long=88.35197 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22829957 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 22827430 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double: ₹5,900-10,200 | wikidata=Q68704706 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Kabab-e-Que restaurant phone +91 33 22829958 }} * {{sleep | name=Elgin Fairlawn | alt= | url=https://www.elginhotels.com/fairlawn.php | email=fairlawn@cal.vsnl.net.in | address=13/A Sudder St | lat=22.558674 | long=88.352687 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 1510, +91 33 2252 8767 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single: ₹5,000-5,600, double: ₹7,550-8,400 | wikidata=Q55610732 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=The building dates to 1783 with many colonial-era relics. }} * {{sleep | name=The Golden Parkk | alt= | url=http://www.goldenparkk.com/ | email=sales@thegoldenpark.com | address=13 Ho Chi Minh Sarani | lat=22.5476 | long=88.3496 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22883939 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 22889600 | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹8,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Housez 43 | alt= | url=https://thesparkhotels.com/hotel_details/hotel-housez-43 | email=booking.housez43@thesparkhotels.com | address=43 Mirza Ghalib St | lat=22.55533 | long=88.35433 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2227 6020, +91 7595067173 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rates start at ₹4,950 | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=All rooms equipped with air-conditioning, TV, and private bath. }} * {{sleep | name=The LaLiT Great Eastern | alt= | url=https://www.thelalit.com/the-lalit-kolkata/ | email= | address= | lat=22.5684 | long=88.3495 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4444-7777 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q15217311 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=Built in 1841, the Great Eastern Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Kolkata. The hotel has housed many famous personalities including Nikita Khrushchev and Nikolai Bulganin, Elizabeth II, Mark Twain, Dave Brubeck and possibly Ho Chi Minh. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lindsay | alt= | url=http://www.hotellindsay.com/ | email=sales@hotellindsay.com | address=8A/8B Lindsay St | lat=22.559426 | long=88.352754 | directions= | phone=+91 33 3021 8666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,600 double | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=The hotel is well-lit and clean. Its facilities, including a room minibar, hot water, tea and coffee, make it a good value four-star property. }} * {{sleep | name=Kenilworth Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.kenilworthhotels.com/russel-street-kolkata/ | email=reservationkol@kenilworthhotels.com | address=1 & 2, Little Russel St | lat=22.54633 | long=88.35022 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2282 3939 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2282 5136, +91 33 2282 3940, +91 33 6621 4100 | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹6,900-₹8,000 | wikidata=Q111402415 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi Grand | alt= | url=http://www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/ | email=reservations@oberoigroup.com | address=15, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.56159 | long=88.35109 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2249 2323 | tollfree=1800-11-2030 | fax=+91 33 2249 9427 | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$375-1,375, ₹10,000 | wikidata=Q5594620 | lastedit=2024-11-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com | email=resv.cal@theparkhotels.com | address=17, Park St | lat=22.5542 | long=88.3519 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2249 3121 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2249 4000 | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹9,950-12,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=The unassuming exterior hides an elegant and homely interior with stylish Indian features. Drink at Aqua (First Floor), Roxy (Ground Floor), and Someplace Else (Ground Floor). }} * {{sleep | name=Peerless Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=12 Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5626 | long=88.3514 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4400 3900 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹10,000 | wikidata=Q108541466 | lastedit=2024-11-18 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Walson | alt= | url=http://www.walson.bawahotels.com/ | email=bawawalson@bawahotels.com | address=5A Sudder St | lat=22.5578 | long=88.3538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 1512, +91 99033 29977 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=₹6,000-6,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=An upscale new venue that's breaking the trend from the Sudder St backpacker tide. 29 rooms }} ==Stay safe== Although most of Esplanade is considered safe, one noted problem here is the drug dealers around Sudder Street. However, as the dealers obviously do not want to draw undue attention to their activity, they are not persistent and are rarely a threat. ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Park Street Police Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.54962 | long=88.35632 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22268321, +91 33 22832100, +91 33 22276437 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content= }} ==Connect== There are other smaller internet cafes on Sudder St such as '''Net Freaks''', but they are often very busy. * {{listing | name=Gopal's Planet | alt= | url=http://www.facebook.com/Gopalsplanet | email=gopalsplanet@gmail.com | address=7 Tottie Ln | lat=22.55774 | long=88.35346 | directions=Coming from Sudder St, walk 50m (150ft) into Tottie Ln. On your left-hand side, same building as Raj's Guesthouse, ground floor | phone=+91 9674273616 | tollfree= | hours=8AM-11PM | price= | content=Friendly, quiet internet cafe off Sudder Street with relatively modern computers, AC and free chai (with Wi-Fi, printers, phone calls, etc.) They also rent bicycles and sell train tickets. Their coffee and snacks are good as well. }} * {{listing | name=Hotline Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=7, Sudder St | lat=22.55839 | long=88.35396 | directions=near the Astoria Hotel, at the back of the parking lot between Roop Shringar clothing shop and Metro Beauty Parlour. Identified with a large illuminated sign in red | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=It has a room jam-packed with high-speed computers, and charges ₹15/hr. They also sell CDs of various styles of Indian music for around ₹150/each and have a selection of hand-woven material and cotton clothing from all over India. The hotline also provides a coffee and snack service. }} ==Cope== {{Outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.57|88.35|zoom=14}} 5pb7y1jgyqistxw6pqpypy9wn8ztogt 5090775 5090773 2025-07-10T12:55:15Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Budget */ Updated listing for Bhagirathi Guest House 5090775 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Kolkata Esplanade banner.jpg|pgname=Esplanade}} [[File:Esplanade Row East.jpg|thumb|Colonial-era buildings at Esplanade Row East]] '''Esplanade''' (এসপ্ল্যানেড ''Esplyāneḍ'') or '''Dharmatala''' (ধর্মতলা ''Dharmatalā'') is the heart of [[Kolkata]], with the mix of some colonial-era buildings with newer ones. It is the new central business district (CBD) of Kolkata and the place of choice for many large business houses, especially at Chowringhee Road (Jawaharlal Nehru Road) and Park Street (Mother Teresa Sarani). When the British started expanding their settlement outside [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh|B. B. D. Bagh]] in the mid-18th century, it was one of the first expansions. During the early British developments around the area, they built huge bungalows and houses all along the northern end of Chowringhee Rd. However, only a few of them still remains, including The Oberoi Grand, the Janbazar Building, the Chowringhee Mansions, the Asiatic Society and the majestic Indian Museum. ==Understand== [[File:Shaheed Minar Sd2175.jpg|thumb|Shaheed Minar]] This district covers the central areas of Kolkata, east of [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh|B. B. D. Bagh]] and the [[Kolkata/Maidan|Maidan]], covering the area around AJC Bose Rd (Lower Circular Rd), Chowringhee Road (Jawaharlal Nehru Road), Esplanade Row East (Sido Kanhu Dahar), Mayo Road, and Park Street (Mother Teresa Sarani). The area consists of neighbourhoods like Chowringhee, Entally, Esplanade, and Janbazar. ===Roads=== * '''Chowringhee Road''' (চৌরঙ্গী রোড ''Chauraṅgī Roḍ''), officially '''Jawaharlal Nehru Road''' (জওহরলাল নেহেরু রোড ''Jaoharlāl Neheru Roḍ''), runs north-south from the junction with Esplanade Row East and Central Avenue (Dorina Crossing) to the junction with AJC Bose Road and Ashutosh Mukherjee Road (Exide More). It is lined up with trees at one side and high-rise buildings at the other, and most of the buildings are major commercial establishments of Kolkata. * '''Park Street''' (পার্ক স্ট্রিট ''Pārk Sṭriṭ''), officially '''Mother Teresa Sarani''' (মাদার টেরিজা সরণি ''Mādār Ṭerijā Saraṇi''), runs west-east from Chowringhee Road to AJC Bose Road, and eventually to [[Kolkata/South|Park Circus]]. It is Kolkata's foremost dining area with many restaurants and pubs, which also showcases fashionable clothes, books from all over the world and so on. Park Street has retained the British spirit and is so well decorated during Christmas and New Year as if it is still part of the [[British Empire]]. ==Get in== {{mapframe|22.557|88.362|height=450|width=450|zoom=14|name=Map of Esplanade}} {{mapshapes|Q1048849}} {{Mapmask|22.5552,88.3503|22.5477,88.3482|22.5416,88.3473|22.5410,88.3593|22.5467,88.3614|22.5464,88.3617|22.5457,88.3627|22.5455,88.3629|22.5435,88.3657|22.5431,88.3658|22.5429,88.3661|22.5430,88.3665|22.5434,88.3667|22.5437,88.3675|22.5437,88.3676|22.5449,88.3706|22.5453,88.3706|22.5469,88.3708|22.5505,88.3712|22.5510,88.3712|22.5522,88.3716|22.5520,88.3724|22.5517,88.3724|22.5516,88.3731|22.5517,88.3734|22.5514,88.3744|22.5513,88.3751|22.5571,88.3756|22.5580,88.3757|22.5589,88.3756|22.5596,88.3755|22.5598,88.3759|22.5606,88.3761|22.5614,88.3767|22.5616,88.3769|22.5615,88.3776|22.5616,88.3778|22.5630,88.3781|22.5631,88.3773|22.5634,88.3766|22.5635,88.3759|22.5633,88.3750|22.5633,88.3746|22.5632,88.3734|22.5633,88.3732|22.5639,88.3726|22.5646,88.3717|22.5652,88.3703|22.5657,88.3689|22.5651,88.3687|22.5650,88.3687|22.5638,88.3683|22.5619,88.3675|22.5606,88.3669|22.5607,88.3655|22.5608,88.3647|22.5606,88.3634|22.5603,88.3623|22.5605,88.3623|22.5619,88.3626|22.5620,88.3624|22.5625,88.3625|22.5625,88.3626|22.5634,88.3629|22.5634,88.3630|22.5644,88.3637|22.5650,88.3638|22.5662,88.3641|22.5663,88.3634|22.5666,88.3627|22.5669,88.3623|22.5672,88.3621|22.5680,88.3612|22.5683,88.3603|22.5686,88.3604|22.5709,88.3614|22.5719,88.3598|22.5724,88.3587|22.5705,88.3580|22.5710,88.3562|22.5710,88.3562|22.5720,88.3531|22.5722,88.3526|22.5726,88.3513|22.5727,88.3509|22.5671,88.3488|22.5661,88.3485|22.5648,88.3481|22.5647,88.3477|22.5640,88.3466|22.5637,88.3468|22.5630,88.3470|22.5626,88.3470|22.5620,88.3468|22.5559,88.3446|22.5555,88.3443|22.5552,88.3443|22.5552,88.3446|22.5553,88.3448|22.5552,88.3478|22.5551,88.3489|22.5553,88.3495|22.5552,88.3503}} ===By bus=== {{marker|type=go|name=Esplanade Bus Terminus|lat=22.56303|long=88.34997|wikidata=Q124681311}} also serves several city bus routes, not just the long-distance ones. It is the most obvious way to get here, though there are bus stops to alight at specific destinations within the district. ===By metro=== Esplanade is served by metrro lines {{rint|kolkata|1}} and {{rint|kolkata|2}}. Line {{rint|kolkata|1}} is useful to get here from northern and southern parts of the city, while Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is useful to get here from [[Howrah]]. Line {{rint|kolkata|2}} is the fastest way to connect the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah, avoiding the congestion at the Howrah Bridge and Vidyasagar Setu. === By tram === There are only two active routes from {{marker|type=go|name=Esplanade Tram Terminus|lat=22.565|long=88.35|image=Esplanade tram terminus.jpg}}, one from [[Kolkata/North|Shyambazar]], and another from [[Kolkata/North|Gariahat]]. Despite being eco-friendly, this is not the most practical way to get here, especially in peak hours when the roads are congested. ==See== [[File:The 42 from Maidan.jpg|thumb|The 42]] [[File:Metropolitan Building (Kolkata).jpg|thumb|Metropolitan Building]] * {{see | name=The 42 | alt=দ্য ফোরটি-টু ''Dya Phōrṭi-ṭu'' | url=http://www.the42.in/ | email= | address=42B, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.54835 | long=88.34975 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7711913 | lastedit=2023-04-14 | content=A {{m|260}} high box-shaped apartment building, and the tallest building of the city. }} * {{see | name=Bow Barracks | alt=বো ব্যারাক ''Bo Byārāk'' | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4950610 | lastedit=2022-12-13 | content=A small hub of mainly Anglo-Indian population who have lived here for generations. According to a legend, Bow Barracks was a garrison's mess built for the army during World War I. When the soldiers left India, they handed over the flats to the Anglo-Indians who took them on rent. Bow Barracks is also famous for its Christmas celebration. }} * {{see | name=Esplanade Mansions | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Esplanade Row East | lat=22.566389 | long=88.348889 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68470889 | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=One of the buildings previously owned by Jewish businessman David Elias Ezra. The residential building was built in the Art Nouveau architecture style. As of 2022, it is owned by the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) and houses commercial, railways and other government offices. }} * {{see | name=House of Henry Louis Vivian Derozio | alt= | url= | email= | address=155A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.559764 | long=88.366676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68597114 | lastedit=2022-11-29 | content=Derozio was a young social reformer and the founder of the Young Bengal group. }} * {{see | name=Metropolitan Building | alt=Whiteways and Laidlaw Building | url=http://www.wmf.org/project/metropolitan-building | email= | address=140, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5637 | long=88.3516 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6825020 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=It was a famous department store in Kolkata during the British period. This neo-baroque emporium—with domes, a clock tower and arched recessed windows—exemplifies fashionable shopping during the British Raj. }} * {{see | name=Shaheed Minar | alt=শহীদ মিনার ''Śahīd Minār'', former name: Ochterlony Monument | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.56286 | long=88.34923 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7461557 | lastedit=2022-09-02 | content=Locally known as simply "Monument", the British colonial monument is 48 meters high. It is rededicated to the Indian freedom activists in 1969 and the monument was renamed Shaheed Minar. }} ===Museums=== [[File:Indian Musium, Kolkata.jpg|thumb|Courtyard of the Indian Museum]] * {{see | name=Baker Hostel | alt=বেকার হোস্টেল ''Bekār Hosṭel'' | url= | email= | address=8, Smith Ln | lat=22.558854 | long=88.358986 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q90092840 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content=A historical building founded in 1910 by Edward Norman Baker as a government hostel for the male students of Maulana Azad College. The rooms 23 and 24 of the building are converted into a museum in honour of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father and the first president of [[Bangladesh]]. Room no. 24 (Bangabandhu Memorial Room) contains Rahman's used bed, table and chair. There is a small library where his books are arranged. }} * {{see | name=Currency Building | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Surendra Mohan Ghosh Sarani | lat=22.570556 | long=88.350278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q56245193 | lastedit=2022-12-02 | content=A three-story Italianate structure, consisting of floors covered by marble and Chunar sandstone. During its use as a currency office, the central hall contained the exchange counters for banknotes, gold, silver, and small change. In 1994, authorities decided to raze the building due to structural deterioration. However, the building was saved from being completely demolished and was renovated between 2005 and 2019. On 11 January 2020, the building was formally dedicated as a public museum at its reopening ceremony. }} * {{see | name=Indian Museum | alt= | url=http://www.indianmuseumkolkata.org/ | email=indianmuseumkolkata@gmail.com | address=27, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.558056 | long=88.350833 | directions=metro: {{station|Park Street|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone=+91 33 2249 5699 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 249 5696 | hours=closed on Mondays | price=Admission: ₹10 (for Indian citizens) ₹150 (for foreign citizens) | wikidata=Q1364900 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=Established in 1814, this was the first such museum in Asia. Among its famous collection is the urn that held the ashes of the Buddha (though this is generally not on display), a Pillar of Ashoka (the three-lion symbol which became the official emblem of the Republic of India) and numerous rare antiques. A varied collection of exhibits include unique fossils, Buddhist Gandhara art and an Egyptian mummy. The Indian Museum has a library of excellent historical value, with a special focus on the British Raj and Kolkata. }} * {{see | name=Smaranika Tram Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=6, Esplanade Row E | lat=22.56525 | long=88.34995 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|blue|green}}; tram: {{station|Esplanade|tram}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=3PM–8PM (closed Th) | price=₹5 | wikidata=Q56682452 | lastedit=2024-03-19 | content=A museum housed inside a decommissioned tram, showcasing the 150-year-old heritage of the tram system in Kolkata. There's a cafeteria in the museum which serves basic tea and coffee. The cafeteria is considered a great place for ''adda''... }} ===Religious attractions=== [[File:Kolkata Tipu Sultan's Mosque3.jpg|thumb|Tipu Sultan Mosque]] * {{see | name=Bauddha Dharmankur Sabha | alt= | url= | email= | address=1 Buddhist Temple St | lat=22.569523 | long=88.356614 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2211 7138 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65080479 | content=A Buddhist monastery established in 1892 and run by the Bengal Buddhist Association. The distinct red building mostly consists of a school and a guest house. There is a very small Buddhist shrine tucked away on the 1st floor. }} * {{see | name=Beth-El Synagogue | alt=বেথ এল সিনাগগ | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q40670133 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content= }} * {{see | name=Carey Baptist Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=BB Ganguly St, Bowbazar | lat=22.57125 | long=88.35512 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2236 7254 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q66313056 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content= }} * {{see | name=Church of the Lord Jesus | alt=Prabhu Jisur Girja; প্রভু যীশুর গির্জা | url= | email= | address=Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Rd, Taltala | lat=22.558511 | long=88.357743 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3585996 | lastedit=2022-12-22 | content=Formerly a Church of Scotland Presbyterian, the Catholic church is a unique one in the city with most of religious services are done in Bengali. }} * {{see | name=Firinghi Kalibari | alt=ফিরিঙ্গি কালীবাড়ি ''Phiriṅgi Kālībāṛi'' | url= | email= | address=244, BB Ganguly St, Bowbazar | lat=22.57025 | long=88.35898 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5452082 | lastedit=2022-12-23 | content=An old Kali temple, said to be 500 years old. The temple is called "Firinghi Kalibari" since Portuguese-born folk singer Anthony Firingee used to come in the temple. Here Goddess Kali is worshipped as "Shri Shri Siddheshwari Kalimata Thakurani". }} * {{see | name=Lower Circular Road Cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.5478 | long=88.3637 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19893393 | lastedit=2024-12-27 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mother Teresa’s tomb | alt=Mother House | url=http://motherteresa.org/03_learn/pilgrimage-to-Mother-Teresa-tomb.html | email= | address=54A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.5531 | long=88.3636 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2217 5267 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-09-03 | content=The Missionaries of Charity is a new order formed in 1950 by Mother Teresa. Their vow to give wholehearted and free service to the poorest of the poor was put into action with the setting up of several homes. Visit Mother Teresa’s tomb at the Mother House, Nirmal Hriday (home for the dying), Shanti Nagar (for lepers) and Nirmala Shishu Bhavan (the children’s home). }} * {{see | name=South Park Street cemetery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park St | lat=22.546568 | long=88.36039 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2972549 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=The final resting place for early British traders and settlers. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan Mosque | alt=টিপু সুলতান মসজিদ ''Ṭipu Sultān Masjid''| url= | email= | address=185, Lenin Sarani | lat=22.5653 | long=88.3518 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Tipu Sultan Mosque | image=Kolkata Tipu Sultan's Mosque3.jpg | wikidata=Q3349172 | content=Built in 1832 by Prince Ghulam Mohammed, the youngest son of Tipu Sultan. People from all sections of society and religions are allowed to visit and take pictures of this historical premise. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Curzon Park | alt=Surendranath Park | url= | email= | address=Rashmoni Ave | lat=22.5649 | long=88.3498 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q68476643 | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content= }} * {{do | name=Indira Gandhi Sarani | alt=Red Road | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55901 | long=88.34577 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24943898 | lastedit=2024-11-12 | content=A road running from Raj Bhavan to Fort William West Gate, surrounded by greenery. The road is known for a large parade on Republic Day (26 January) and the [[Durga Puja|Durga Puja Carnival]]. }} * {{do | name=Jyoti Cinema | alt= | url= | email= | address=32/1, Lenin Sarani | lat=22.5636 | long=88.3535 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6319406 | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=One of the most popular and oldest single-screen movie theatres of Kolkata. Hindi films and English Hollywood films used to be screened regularly. The theatre had a steady audience for its comfortable seating, good screen quality and stereophonic sound. }} * {{do | name=Metro Cinema | alt= | url=https://kolktafatafat.com/ | email= | address=8, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5641 | long=88.3494 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6824536 | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content=A uniplex cinema hall and a heritage building with Art Deco architecture. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française du Bengale | alt= | url=http://bengale.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Gate 3, Park Mansions, 57A Park St | lat=22.55251 | long=88.35322 | directions=upon arriving at Park Mansions, enter the gate facing Park St at Mirza Ghalib St-Park St crossing | phone=+91 33 4006 4801 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-6PM (closed Su) | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The French language school in Kolkata, promoting the study of French and encouraging international cultural exchange and relations. }} * {{listing | name=The Asiatic Society | alt= | url=https://www.asiaticsocietykolkata.org/ | email= | address=1, Park St | lat=22.554913 | long=88.351135 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q374902 | lastedit=2022-11-28 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Max Mueller Bhavan Kolkata | alt=Goethe-Institut | url=https://goethe.de/kolkata | email= | address=Gate 4, Park Mansions, 57A Park St | lat=22.55315 | long=88.35354 | directions=upon arriving at Park Mansions, take Mirza Ghalib St and enter the leftmost gate | phone=+91 33 2264 6602 | tollfree= | hours=9AM-6PM (closed Su) | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content=The German language school in Kolkata, promoting the study of German and encouraging international cultural exchange and relations. }} ==Buy== [[File:India - Kolkata Hogg market - 3366.jpg|thumb|Meat shops at New Market]] The Esplanade area is the central marketplace for the people of Kolkata. There are shops ranging from computer peripherals to paint brushes and accessories, from cloth merchants to "foreign" (ফরেন ''pharen'') goods. There are cinemas and restaurants. Major chain retailers include '''[https://www.pantaloons.com/ Pantaloons]''' (22, Camac St). * {{buy | name=Dr B. C. Roy Market | alt=Maidan Market, Bidhan Market | url= | email= | address=Dufferin Rd | lat=22.56218 | long=88.35053 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-28 | content=It has garments, sports goods and other shops. }} *{{buy | name=Eagle | url= | email= | address=12/2 Lindsay St | lat=22.5594257 | long=88.3527538 | directions=in front on New Market | phone=+91 33 98 023 6663 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A good place to pick up Indian art films. }} * {{buy | name=Earthcare Books | alt= | url= | email= | address=10 Middleton St | lat=22.54942 | long=88.35047| directions=Maidan metro station | phone=+91 33 2229-6551 | hours= | price=| content=A wonderful independent bookstore tucked away in an alley leading from Middleton St. As the name suggests, the bookstore specializes in environmental titles but also has a wide range of local subjects and poetry. }} * {{buy | name=Emami Shoppers' City | alt= | url= |email= | address=3 Lord Sinha Rd | lat=22.5445 | long=88.3487 | directions= |phone=+91 33 2282 0675| fax= | hours= | price= | content=Coffee shops, bookshop, designer wear, toy shops, boutiques, footwear stores, electronic stores, discotheque, beauty salons, gift shops, game parlours, multiplex }} * {{buy | name=Entally Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=58, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.55877 | long=88.36642 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-12-08 | content=One of the old markets in Kolkata. Shops sell ready-made garments, vegetables, groceries, textiles, margarine, fish and fruits. This market was once famously known for its dairy product shops that provided high quality dairy items such as paneer, ghee, yogurt, condensed milk, cheese and butter. }} * {{buy | name=Handicrafts | alt=Between Sudder St and Surendranath Banerjee Road | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55811 | long=88.35272 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has several shops selling handicrafts. The largest is at the corner of Surendranath Banerjee Road. }} * {{buy | name=Metro Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Ho Chi Minh Sarani | lat=22.5473 | long=88.3488 | directions=beside Tata Centre, near to Maidan metro station| phone=+91 33 30525473, +91 33 30525474, +91 33 22883802 | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Locally manufactured readymade clothes. Many shops deal only in imported garments, mostly from Bangkok. The latest footwear and lingerie. Good parking facility. }} * {{buy | name=Mirza Ghalib Street | alt=Free School Street | url= | address= | lat=22.55829 | long=88.35481| directions= | phone= | hours= | price= | content=It is famous for its second-hand bookshops and second-hand record stalls. Rummaging through the LPs for sale on the street, one may find real gems from the jazz age. }} * {{buy | name=New Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bertram St, Lenin Sarani | lat=22.5607 | long=88.3532 | directions=E of Lindsay Street {{rint|bus}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=M–F 10:30AM–7:30PM, S 10:30AM–2:30PM | price= | wikidata=Q7010004 | lastedit=2023-01-24 | content=One of the oldest surviving markets in the city. Opened in 1874, it was named Sir Stuart Hogg Market after the commissioner Sir Stuart Hogg and it is still locally known as such. Although the beautiful fountain and benches at the market no longer exist, its popularity has not waned and the beautiful Gothic clock tower recalls the British heritage of the market. New Market is a good place to sample Indian sweet delicacies and generally soak up the atmosphere of Kolkata. There are also a few handicraft stalls inside. The market is in a large red brick building on Lindsay Street (the road parallel Sudder Street to the north). It has got over 2,000 stalls and is a bargain hunter's delight. The shops are arranged merchandise-wise. It is supposed to be the ultimate marketing experience in Kolkata. }} * {{buy | name=Oxford Book Store | alt= | url=http://www.oxfordbookstore.com | email= | address=15 Park St | lat=22.55449 | long=88.35125 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2229 5455 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large and well-organised bookstore. Good selection of books on India and by Indian writers. Discount books and cafe (Cha Bar, see [[#Drink|Drink]] section) on the second floor. }} * {{buy | name=Shree Ram Arcade | alt= | url= | email= | address=15A, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.55863 | long=88.35084 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10:00-20:00 from Tuesday to Saturday and from 13:00 - 20:00. on Mondays. Sunday holiday. | price= | content=Full of garment shops. }} * {{buy | name=Treasure Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.55911 | long=88.35269 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M 1PM-8PM, Tu-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | content= }} * {{buy | name=Vardaan Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=25-A, Camac St | lat=22.5483 | long=88.3536 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22812724, +91 33 22874082 | fax=| hours= | price= | content=Forerunner of today's large shopping malls, it was the earliest air-conditioned market. Little shops and stalls line the walls of this mall selling shoes, handbags, toys, saris, salwar suits and western wear for ladies, shirts, tee shirts and trousers for men and children's clothes for all ages, chocolates and snacks. }} * {{buy | name=Westside | alt= | url=http://www.mywestside.com/webpages/innerpages/storedetail.aspx?Id=7 | email=mywestside@trent-tata.com | address=Block D22 Camac St | lat=22.5468 | long=88.3531 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22817312 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-9PM | price= | content=The Westside stores have numerous departments to meet the varied shopping needs of customers. These include menswear, women’s wear, kid’s wear, footwear, cosmetics, perfumes and handbags, household accessories, lingerie, and gifts. Fashionable goods are priced a little on the higher side. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Jimmy's Kitchen | alt= | url= | email= | address=7/1A, AJC Bose Rd | lat=22.544184 | long=88.360276 | directions=AJC Bose Rd-Shakespeare Sarani crossing | phone=+91 33 2290 7139 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chinese food. Drinks available. Popular items: Thai soup, noodles, lung fung soup, prawn, crispy chilli chicken, roast pork chilli, sweet corn soup. Jimmy's Kitchen has two branches: 1. 36F Ruby Hospital Road, 2. 14D, Lindsay Street. }} * {{eat | name=Jyoti Vihar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ho Chi Minh Sarani | lat=22.54708 | long=88.35059 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2282 9791 | hours= | price= | content=Offers clean and tasty South Indian food. It is completely vegetarian. It is on the same street as the US Consulate. }} * {{eat | name=Kabab-e-Que | alt=The Astor | url=http://www.astorkolkata.com/restnbars.php | email= | address=15 Shakespeare Sarani | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Astor Hotel | phone=+91-33 22829957-58 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They serve Indian and continental cuisine, but what has made this outlet famous is the variety of kababs that goes wonderfully well with drinks. }} *{{eat |name=Khalsa |alt=|url=|email=|address=Madge Ln |lat=|long=|directions=on left side when entering Madge Ln, from Sudder St|phone=|tollfree=|fax=|hours=|price=|lastedit=2019-02-10|content=offers excellent and cheap Punjabi food. }} *{{eat | name=Mission Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=20 Ganesh Chandra Ave | lat=22.5679 | long=88.3558 | directions= | phone= | hours= | price=| content=Vegetarian fast food spot. Dosa, chaats and curry are served at high tables. The cafe is known for its chole bhature, a chickpea dish served in a phuchka shell. Turnover is fast here, not even stools to sit on, but it is nonetheless tasty. }} * {{eat | name=Nizam's | alt=নিজামস ''Nijāms'' | url= | email= | address=23/24 Hogg St | lat=22.5617 | long=88.3536 | directions=junction of Hogg St and Corporation Pl | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kolkata 2024 random Moments (13).jpg | lastedit=2025-02-21 | content=Opened in 1932, the restaurant is known for the "kathi kebab roll". The roll initially became popular among the [[Kolkata/B. B. D. Bagh|B. B. D. Bagh]] officers during lunch time, then became an iconic food of Kolkata. It also serves a special potato roll named after Indian actor Amitabh Bachchan. It has a separate beef counter that serves beef kebab, bhuna, chaap, biryani and khiri (cow udder). }} ===Bowbazar=== * {{eat | name=Bhim Chandra Nag | alt=ভীম চন্দ্র নাগ ''Bhīm Candra Nāg'' | url= | email= | address=5, Nirmal Chandra St | lat=22.568681 | long=88.360246 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2212 0465, +91 33 2269 7908 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Bhim Chandra Nag sweet shop at Bowbazar, Kolkata, WB.jpg | lastedit=2018-04-10 | content=The 200-year-old shop is famous for sandesh. It is the inventor of ''leḍikeni'' (লেডিকেনি), named after the wife of Lord Canning, the then-Viceroy of India. }} * {{eat | name=Naba Krishna Guin | alt=নব কৃষ্ণ গুঁই ''Naba Kr̥ṣṇa Gũi'' | url= | email= | address=9B, Nirmal Chandra St | lat=22.56862 | long=88.36022 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=The 200-year-old traditional sweet shop is famous for its fried sweets (ভাজা মিষ্টি ''bhājā miṣṭi''). }} ===Chittaranjan Avenue and Chowringhee Road=== * {{eat | name=Aheli | alt= | url= | email=| address=Peerless Inn Hotel, 12, Chowringhee Rd | lat= | long= | directions=| phone=+91 33 2228-0301, +91 33 4400-3900 |fax=| hours= | price=| content=Authentic Bengali food, served in brass utensils in a Bengali marriage environment. Drinks not served. }} * {{eat | name=Anadi Cabin | alt=অনাদি কেবিন ''Anādi Kebin'' | url= | email= | address=9A, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.56327 | long=88.35155 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Anadi Cabin - Restaurant - 9A Chowringhee Road - Kolkata 2015-01-30 5705.JPG | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content=Known for Mughlai paratha (মোগলাই পরোটা ''Moglāi Paroṭā''). }} * {{eat | name=Ban Thai | alt= | url=http://www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_kolkata/dining.asp | email= | address=Oberoi Grand, 15 Chowringhee Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2249-2323 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-F 7-11:30PM, Sa Su 12:30-3PM and 7-11:30PM | price=Around ₹4,000 for two people. Drinks extra | content=For an authentic taste of Thailand, visit Baan Thai. Widely recognised as the premier Thai restaurant in the country. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=Chung-Wah | alt= | url= | email= | address=13A, Chittaranjan Ave | lat= 22.5671| long=88.3538 | directions=metro: {{station|Chandni Chowk|1}} | phone=+91 33 22377003 | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest and best places to sample Chinese food. Drinks served. }} * {{eat | name=K.C. Das Sweets | alt= | url= | email= | address=11A&B, Chittaranjan Ave | lat=22.56545 | long=88.3515 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-18 | content=Best known for its rasgullas, which is fondly called "rosogolla" (রসগোল্লা) in Bengali. }} * {{eat | name=New Embassy | alt= | url= | email= | address=53A, Chowringhee Ln | lat= | long=| directions=right on Chowringhee Rd between Shakespeare Sarani crossing and AJC Bose Rd crossing | phone=+91 33 22827490 |fax= |hours= | price= | content=Delicious Chinese food. }} * {{eat | name=Rallis, Esplanade | alt= | url= | email= | address=10D, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.56306 | long=88.35131 | directions=metro: {{station|Esplanade|city=Kolkata|blue}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-09 | content=Vegetarian restaurant known for various kinds of snacks. Chats and South Indian foods are common. Famous for non-alcoholic drinks including various kinds of milkshakes. }} * {{eat | name=Sip & Sandwich | url= | email= | address=1 Shakespeare Sarani, Theatre Road AC Market, Elgin | lat=22.54605 | long=88.34842 | directions=Chowringhee Rd corner| phone=+91 9830605145| hours= | price=| content= Vegetarian fast food }} ===Mirza Ghalib Street=== * {{eat |name=Kathleen's |address=Mirza Ghalib St |content=Pastry shop and an eclectic mix of cuisines dominated by Indian and Chinese styles. }} * {{eat | name=Mocambo | alt= | url= | email= | address=25B Mirza Ghalib St | lat=22.55301 | long=88.35307 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2265 4300 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=mains ₹100-300 | content=Same owners as Peter Cat, but here the cuisine is a bit more rounded. Continental, Indian and even some Chinese dishes are served in upscale surroundings. }} *{{eat | name=Raj's Spanish Cafe |alt=| url= | email= | address=7, Sudder St | lat=22.55815 | long=88.35376 | directions=hard-to-find alleyway entrance close to intersection Mirza Ghalib St | phone=+91 33 4001 4373|tollfree=|fax=| hours=8AM-10PM | price=mains ₹100 |lastedit=2019-02-10| content=Serves breakfast and espresso-based coffees. Mexican, pizza, and other Western staples. }} ===Park Street=== * {{eat | name=Drive Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=10 Middleton St | lat=22.54938 | long=88.35041 | directions=same as Earthcare Books | phone=+91 33 2217-2247 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Meals from around ₹70 | content=An outdoor restaurant offering a wide range of good vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare (Indian/Chinese). AC area is available, the staff speaks good English and is friendly. }} * {{eat | name=Flury's | alt= | url=http://www.flurysindia.com | email= | address=18 Park St | lat=22.55417 | long=88.35112 | directions=metro: {{station|Park Street|city=kolkata|blue}} | phone=+91 33 22297664 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 7AM-8PM, M 10AM-6PM | price= | content=A popular and stylish cafe serving a good variety of baked goods and various coffees, sandwiches and entrees. A great place for breakfast or lunch. Baked goods ₹80-₹100, drinks ₹80, meals ₹600-₹1000. }} * {{eat | name=Gangaur | alt= | url= | email=| address=2 Russel St | lat= | long= | directions=| phone=+91 33 22658437| fax=| hours= | price=| content=Serves a variety of vegetarian food but is famous for its Rajasthani or Marwari food. }} * {{eat | name=Kwality | alt= | url= | email= | address=17, Park St | lat=22.5538 | long=88.3519 | directions=next to Oxford Book Shop| phone=| hours= | price=Mains from ₹100| content=Been around for years with sharply dressed waiters serving tasty tandoori and north Indian food to well-off locals. Try their Chhola-bhatura. }} * {{eat | name=Moulin Rouge | alt=not to be confused with Paris night club | url= | email= | address=31, Park St | lat= | long= | directions=| phone=+91 33 2229 9397| fax= | hours= | price=| content= }} * {{eat | name=Oasis | alt= | url= | email=| address=33, Park St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2229 9033| hours= | price=| content=Cosy restaurant with variety of foods. Has a small bar service counter with three stalls. }} * {{eat | name=Peter Cat | alt= | url= | email=| address=18, Park St | lat=22.55418 | long=88.35111| directions=metro: {{station|Park Street|city=kolkata|blue}}| phone=+91 33 2229 8841 | hours= | price=| content=Very popular for its ''chello kababs''. However, their service has not received the best reviews. Serves Indian, tandoori and Continental fare. }} * {{eat | name=Shiraz Golden Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=135, Park St | lat=22.546484 | long=88.361926 | directions=near AJC Bose Rd crossing | phone=+91 33 3099 0175 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Noon-11:30PM | price= | content=Biryani and Mughlai food. Popular items: firni, mutton biryani, brain masala, chicken tikka, chicken reshmi butter masala, mutton haleem. It has four food outlets in Kolkata: Kankurgachi, Salt Lake Sector III, Ajay Nagar, and Nagerbazar. }} * {{eat | name=Waldorf | alt= | url= | email= | address=13 D, Russel St | lat=22.5532 | long=88.3512 | directions=near crossing with Park St| phone=+91 33 65354952| fax=| hours= | price=| content=Serves delicious Chinese food }} ===Sudder Street=== * {{eat | name=Blue Sky Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=3, Sudder St | lat=22.5579 | long=88.3539 | directions=on the corner of Chowringhee Ln | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2019-02-10| content=The food is cheap, the place is clean and the service is truly fantastic. Great if you are on an extended stay as they offer both Indian and some Western food. You will not find nicer waiters anywhere. Try the freshly squeezed juices. }} * {{eat | name=Curd Corner | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sudder St | lat= | long= | directions=near junction with Chowringhee Ln | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-08-18 | content=This small hole-in-the-wall eatery is quite an institution in the area, and a generation of travellers have gorged themselves on the fresh and thick yoghurt. Check out the filter coffee and 'mock' cappuccino. Service staff don't speak English, which makes it hard when their menu is in English. }} ==Drink== === Alcohol === * {{drink | name=Big Ben | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Kenilworth, Little Russell Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} *{{drink | name=Fairlawn Beer Garden | alt= | url=http://www.fairlawnhotel.com/ | email= | address=13/A Sudder St | lat=22.55834 | long=88.35267 | directions=inside Hotel Fairlawn | phone=+91 33 2252 1510 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Only serves beer. Eccentric atmosphere with greenery everywhere. Famous among travellers and volunteers. Great place for meeting people and early evening drinking. Snacks and dinner available. }} * {{drink | name=The Myx | alt= | url= | email= | address=20G Park St | lat=22.55214 | long=88.35278 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Nocturne | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shakespeare Sarani | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Olypub | alt= | url= | email= | address=23 Park St | lat=22.5534 | long= 88.3522| directions= | phone=+91 33 64520472 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 11AM to 11PM| price= | content=A fine afforable bar, famous for the beer and the beef steak. }} * {{drink | name=Shisha Bar Stock Exchange, The Factory Outlet | alt= | url= | email= | address=22 Camac Street | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-12-29 | content= }} *{{drink | name=Super Pub | url= | email= | address=Sudder St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite of Fire Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Air-conditioned and clean place. Serves beer and hard liquor and seasonal fruit juice. Snacks and eateries are reasonably priced. }} ===Coffees=== There are a number of cafe chains (Barista, Cafe Coffee Day, etc.) on Park Street, near the junction with Mirza Ghalib Street. *{{drink | name=Cha Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=2nd floor, Oxford Book Store, Park St | lat=22.5539 | long=88.3519 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A modern and chic cafe with a great selection of teas, including herbal, and smoothies. The coffee however is mediocre. A large window offers views of street life below, while the books provide a literary dimension. }} * {{drink |name=The Street | address=GF, Park Hotel, Park St |content=The universal colours of chic decor, black and red, are used extensively to give this cafe a warm but modern feel. Good selection of coffees and healthy snacks opposed to what the name might make you think. This cafe is about as far from representing Kolkata street life as you could possibly get, but it makes a good alternative to the ubiquitous ''Baristas'' and ''Coffee Days''. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹2,000|₹2,000 to ₹5,000|Over ₹5,000}} ===Budget=== Sudder Street is at the centre of Kolkata's backpacker area, and many of the budget hotels geared towards travellers are on and around this street. * {{sleep | name=Astoria Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.astoria.in | email=astoria@hotmail.com | address=Sudder St | lat=22.55807 | long=88.35428 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 9679, +91 90516 88123 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹2,850-3,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Clean, large, albeit drab, rooms with private bathrooms. It has a variety of options for dining and also has fitness amenities. The hotel staff are usually considered helpful, though the receptionist is sometimes considered rude and unhelpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Bhagirathi Guest House | alt= | url= | email= | address=30B, Mirza Ghalib St | lat=22.557785 | long=88.354415 | directions= | phone=+91 98369 93678 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111123502 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Broadway Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.broadwayhotel.in/ | email=contact@broadwayhotel.in | address=27A Ganesh Chandra Ave, Chandni Chowk | lat=22.566384 | long=88.357758 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22363930, +91 33 2236 3931 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout=24 hours from when you check in | price=₹775 double with private bathroom | image=Calcutta's Broadway Hotel (14657993359).jpg | lastedit=2024-11-18 | content=Despite lacking AC the very large rooms with high ceilings make for a great space and the price is definitely right. Don't miss the authentic ambience of the restaurant and bar of this 1937-built hotel. Supposedly due to the hotel's popularity rooms are often difficult to get unless you book ahead, however, try hanging around and see if one magically opens up while you're there (especially if you're first offered a more expensive room). Upper triple rooms have balconies. Also one of the few places which serves beer with a plate of sliced cucumber. }} *{{sleep | name=Esplanade Chambers | alt= | url=http://www.esplanadechambers.com | email=esplanadechambers@yahoo.co.in | address=2 Chandni Chowk St | lat=22.56736 | long=88.3565 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2212 7101, +91 99 0313 2621 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single from ₹1,400, double deluxe ₹2,200, breakfast incl | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Very clean and reasonably quiet rooms, albeit not massive. Has a free and reliable Wi-Fi service. The staff and the manager are considered very helpful and accommodating. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Galaxy | alt= | url= | email= | address=3, Stuart Ln | lat=22.55726 | long=88.35424 | directions=off Sudder St | phone=+33 2252 4565 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,000-1,100 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Clean, simple, and convenient location with AC rooms. Has kitchen and drinking water supply facilities. The hotel staff are considered helpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Jaapon | alt= | url= | email= | address=30F Mirza Galib St | lat=22.5574 | long=88.3546 | directions=at the end of Sudder St | phone=+91 33 2252 0657, +91 33 2252 0658 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single: ₹650, AC doubles: ₹1,100 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=Reasonably clean AC and non-AC rooms available with a very small private bathroom and cable TV. Beds are surprisingly comfortable given the thin and well-worn mattresses, but some rooms are chokingly musty - check before checking in. The hotel staff are not considered helpful. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Maria | alt= | url= | email= | address=5/1 Sudder St | lat=22.5578 | long=88.3541 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 0860 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=dorm ₹80, Very basic, creatively graffiti-ed rooms with and without attached bathroom from ₹300 as of Feb 2015. Grumpy service, cheap laundry, dank bathroom/toilet and no wifi. Very central location, '''takes no bookings, so arrive early''' (8:30AM onwards) | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Modern Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=1, Stuart Ln | lat=22.55742 | long=88.35425 | directions=off Sudder St | phone=+91 33 2252 4960 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹100-250 | content=Not very modern, but cheap and fairly clean. ₹150 for a single with a shared cold-water bathroom. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Royal Palace | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 5280, +91 33 2252 4178 | hours= | price=₹350-750 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Clean and large A/C & non-A/C rooms with private bath, TV, STD/ISD. }} *{{sleep | name=Seacom Inn YMCA | alt= | url=https://www.oyorooms.com/hotels-in-kolkata/ | email=chowringheeymca@yahoo.com | address=25 Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5559 | long=88.3505 | directions=near corner with Kyd St | phone=+91 33 2249-2192 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Non A/C single ₹600, with A/C ₹850 | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=An extremely drab and dark hotel that appears not to have received a lick of paint since its founding in the mid-19th century. However, in some ways, that is the hotel's distinctive charm, and so it may appeal to strict traditionalists. There is a simple restaurant on the second floor. The food is nothing special, but the balcony offers a great view of the buzzing city below. }} *{{sleep | name=Sunflower Guest House | alt= | url=http://www.sunflowerguesthouse.com | email=sunflowerguesthouse@gmail.com | address=7 Royd St | lat=22.55253 | long=88.35607 | directions=200 m away intersection Park St and Mirza Ghalib St | phone=+91 33 2229 9401, +91 33 2229 8388 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,350 double | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=Clean and great location. Those who tote lots of luggage be warned there are stairs to climb to the top floor reception. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=DK international Hotel | alt= | url= | email=dkinhotel@gmail.com | address=11/1A Marquis St | lat=22.55648 | long=88.35594 | directions=near to Colin St corner | phone=+91 33 2252 2540, +91 33 2252 2666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double from ₹1,800+tax | content=All rooms A/C and breakfast included. Close to the Bangladesh bus stations. There are better deals out there but not quite as new as this place. }} * {{sleep | name=The Senator | alt= | url=http://thesenatorhotel.com/ | email= | address=15 Camac St | lat=22.5429 | long=88.3523 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2289 3000 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content= }} ===Splurge=== [[File:OberoiGrandHotelKolkata gobeirne.jpg|thumb|The Oberoi Grand]] * {{sleep | name=The Astor | alt= | url=http://www.astorkolkata.com/ | email=sales@astorkolkata.com | address=15 Shakespeare Sarani | lat=22.5459 | long=88.35197 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22829957 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 22827430 | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double: ₹5,900-10,200 | wikidata=Q68704706 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Kabab-e-Que restaurant phone +91 33 22829958 }} * {{sleep | name=Elgin Fairlawn | alt= | url=https://www.elginhotels.com/fairlawn.php | email=fairlawn@cal.vsnl.net.in | address=13/A Sudder St | lat=22.558674 | long=88.352687 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 1510, +91 33 2252 8767 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Single: ₹5,000-5,600, double: ₹7,550-8,400 | wikidata=Q55610732 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=The building dates to 1783 with many colonial-era relics. }} * {{sleep | name=The Golden Parkk | alt= | url=http://www.goldenparkk.com/ | email=sales@thegoldenpark.com | address=13 Ho Chi Minh Sarani | lat=22.5476 | long=88.3496 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22883939 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 22889600 | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹8,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Housez 43 | alt= | url=https://thesparkhotels.com/hotel_details/hotel-housez-43 | email=booking.housez43@thesparkhotels.com | address=43 Mirza Ghalib St | lat=22.55533 | long=88.35433 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2227 6020, +91 7595067173 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Rates start at ₹4,950 | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=All rooms equipped with air-conditioning, TV, and private bath. }} * {{sleep | name=The LaLiT Great Eastern | alt= | url=https://www.thelalit.com/the-lalit-kolkata/ | email= | address= | lat=22.5684 | long=88.3495 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4444-7777 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q15217311 | lastedit=2022-12-03 | content=Built in 1841, the Great Eastern Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Kolkata. The hotel has housed many famous personalities including Nikita Khrushchev and Nikolai Bulganin, Elizabeth II, Mark Twain, Dave Brubeck and possibly Ho Chi Minh. }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Lindsay | alt= | url=http://www.hotellindsay.com/ | email=sales@hotellindsay.com | address=8A/8B Lindsay St | lat=22.559426 | long=88.352754 | directions= | phone=+91 33 3021 8666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,600 double | lastedit=2022-10-12 | content=The hotel is well-lit and clean. Its facilities, including a room minibar, hot water, tea and coffee, make it a good value four-star property. }} * {{sleep | name=Kenilworth Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.kenilworthhotels.com/russel-street-kolkata/ | email=reservationkol@kenilworthhotels.com | address=1 & 2, Little Russel St | lat=22.54633 | long=88.35022 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2282 3939 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2282 5136, +91 33 2282 3940, +91 33 6621 4100 | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹6,900-₹8,000 | wikidata=Q111402415 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi Grand | alt= | url=http://www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-kolkata/ | email=reservations@oberoigroup.com | address=15, Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.56159 | long=88.35109 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2249 2323 | tollfree=1800-11-2030 | fax=+91 33 2249 9427 | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$375-1,375, ₹10,000 | wikidata=Q5594620 | lastedit=2024-11-18 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com | email=resv.cal@theparkhotels.com | address=17, Park St | lat=22.5542 | long=88.3519 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2249 3121 | tollfree= | fax=+91 33 2249 4000 | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹9,950-12,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=The unassuming exterior hides an elegant and homely interior with stylish Indian features. Drink at Aqua (First Floor), Roxy (Ground Floor), and Someplace Else (Ground Floor). }} * {{sleep | name=Peerless Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=12 Chowringhee Rd | lat=22.5626 | long=88.3514 | directions= | phone=+91 33 4400 3900 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹10,000 | wikidata=Q108541466 | lastedit=2024-11-18 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Hotel Walson | alt= | url=http://www.walson.bawahotels.com/ | email=bawawalson@bawahotels.com | address=5A Sudder St | lat=22.5578 | long=88.3538 | directions= | phone=+91 33 2252 1512, +91 99033 29977 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=₹6,000-6,200 | lastedit=2024-11-13 | content=An upscale new venue that's breaking the trend from the Sudder St backpacker tide. 29 rooms }} ==Stay safe== Although most of Esplanade is considered safe, one noted problem here is the drug dealers around Sudder Street. However, as the dealers obviously do not want to draw undue attention to their activity, they are not persistent and are rarely a threat. ===Police stations=== * {{listing | name=Park Street Police Station | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=22.54962 | long=88.35632 | directions= | phone=+91 33 22268321, +91 33 22832100, +91 33 22276437 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-11-28 | content= }} ==Connect== There are other smaller internet cafes on Sudder St such as '''Net Freaks''', but they are often very busy. * {{listing | name=Gopal's Planet | alt= | url=http://www.facebook.com/Gopalsplanet | email=gopalsplanet@gmail.com | address=7 Tottie Ln | lat=22.55774 | long=88.35346 | directions=Coming from Sudder St, walk 50m (150ft) into Tottie Ln. On your left-hand side, same building as Raj's Guesthouse, ground floor | phone=+91 9674273616 | tollfree= | hours=8AM-11PM | price= | content=Friendly, quiet internet cafe off Sudder Street with relatively modern computers, AC and free chai (with Wi-Fi, printers, phone calls, etc.) They also rent bicycles and sell train tickets. Their coffee and snacks are good as well. }} * {{listing | name=Hotline Services | alt= | url= | email= | address=7, Sudder St | lat=22.55839 | long=88.35396 | directions=near the Astoria Hotel, at the back of the parking lot between Roop Shringar clothing shop and Metro Beauty Parlour. Identified with a large illuminated sign in red | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2022-11-27 | content=It has a room jam-packed with high-speed computers, and charges ₹15/hr. They also sell CDs of various styles of Indian music for around ₹150/each and have a selection of hand-woven material and cotton clothing from all over India. The hotline also provides a coffee and snack service. }} ==Cope== {{Outlinedistrict}} {{IsPartOf|Kolkata}} {{geo|22.57|88.35|zoom=14}} 3qqk925zrbtodboj8o5v66zthf5nyrj 0 196830 5090922 5088922 2025-07-10T15:28:46Z Mrkstvns 144844 fix dead link 5090922 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Banner Tortuguero.png}} [[Costa Rica]] has some of the world's most spectacular national parks, protecting a range of different ecosystems including rain forests and cloud forests, remote beaches where sea turtles nest, dense jungles, and active volcanoes. [[File:Manuel Antonio National Park Beach.jpg|thumb|Beach in Manuel Antonio National Park]] == Understand == Surprisingly, Costa Rica's national park system is quite young, having been founded in 1970. The country is blessed with a spectacular diversity of flora and fauna. This diversity led to Costa Rica adopting the slogan, "Pura Vida". Pura vida is more than a slogan though because the philosophy is widely embraced by the people, who support the government's efforts to conserve natural resources and to protect the wilderness for future generations. Today, 28% of the total land area of the country is protected biosphere. 10% of the land is designated for the 32 major national parks, with the remaining 18% set aside for wildlife refuges, biosphere reserves, rainforest preserves, and other protected conservation zones. [[File:Irazu volcano Costa Rica Enero 2020.jpg|thumb|Irazu Volcano National Park]] The national parks have become a magnet for international eco-tourism. Ecotourism is estimated to contribute 5% of the nation's total GDP, and boosts quality of life in communities near parks and natural attractions. Costa Rica enjoys the highest standard of living in Central America and is regarded as the most politically stable country in the region. Costa Rica's national parks are managed by the National Conservation Areas System (SINAC)[https://www.sinac.go.cr/EN-US/Pages/default.aspx]. The agency's mission is to preserve the environment and to ensure affordable access to all. == Parks == Costa Rica's national parks include: [[File:2006-08-11 Faultier, Nationalpark Manuel Antonio.jpg|thumb|Sloth in Manuel Antonio National Park]] [[File:CtenosauraSimilis.jpg|thumb|Barra Honda National Park]] ===[[Central Valley (Costa Rica)|Central Valley]]=== * [[Braulio Carrillo National Park]] * [[La Cangreja National Park]] * [[Cartago#Irazú_Volcano_area|Irazu Volcano National Park]] * [[Central Valley (Costa Rica)#Do|Poás Volcano National Park]] * [[Los Quetzales National Park]] * [[Tapantí National Park]] * [[Turrialba#See|Turrialba Volcano National Park]] ===[[Central Pacific]]=== * [[Carara National Park]] * [[Manuel Antonio National Park]] * [[Monteverde and Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserves]] * [[Piedras Blancas National Park]] * [[San Lucas Island National Park]] ===[[Guanacaste]]=== * [[Barra Honda National Park]] * [[Las Baulas de Guanacaste National Marine Park]] * [[Cocos Island National Park]] * [[Diria National Park]] * [[Guanacaste National Park]] * [[Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park]] * [[Santa Rosa National Park]] * [[Tenorio Volcano National Park]] ===[[Limón_(Province,_Costa_Rica)|Limón]]=== * [[Barbilla National Park]] * [[Cahuita National Park]] * [[Tortuguero|Tortuguero National Park]] ===[[North Costa Rica]]=== * [[Arenal Volcano National Park]] * [[Juan Castro Blanco National Park]] * [[Miravalles Jorge Manuel Dengo National Park]] * [[Palo Verde National Park]] ===[[South Pacific Costa Rica]]=== * [[La Amistad International Park]] (jointly operated with [[Panama]]) * [[Chirripo National Park]] * [[Corcovado National Park]] * [[Ballena Marine National Park]] ==See also== * [[National parks]] * [[Central and South American wildlife]] {{PartOfTopic|National parks|Central America}} {{outlinetopic}} {{related|Costa Rica}} {{related|Central America}} {{related|Central and South American wildlife}} {{related|North America itineraries}} bl171qpnpg3tdezhz0tmkhamvrfk7o9 0 196946 5090939 5056181 2025-07-10T16:10:20Z R. Henrik Nilsson 2273145 possiblity > possibility 5090939 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Lagunas Montebello banner.jpg|unesco_br=yes}} '''Lagunas de Montebello National Park''' is in [[Chiapas]] in the southern part of [[Mexico]], near the border with [[Guatemala]]. It is famous for its many colorful lakes (CONANP says more than 60, some other sources say 59). The lakes are remarkable for the wide range of natural water colors they exhibit; colors that range from light aquamarine to a brilliant deep purple. Some lakes are green, others blue, a few red. The park is a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.[https://en.unesco.org/biosphere/lac/lagunas-montebello] [[File:Laguna, Tziscao, Chiapas (16076823334).jpg|thumb|Laguna Tziscao, Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello]] ==Understand== The lakes of Montebello are a fragile ecosystem that has become threatened in recent decades by a combination of global climate change and human commercial exploitation. Threats to the park manifest themselves through deforestation in nearby communities as well as pollution of tributary water sources for some of the lakes. Raw sewage, commercial contaminants, and agricultural runoff have changed the water chemistry of some lakes, destroying their brilliant clarity and colors and killing aquatic life in those lakes. Most lakes are still spectacular to behold, but don't be shocked to see some muddy, dull lakes where nothing grows or thrives. This is a large park with an area of about 6,000 hectares. Much of the population of nearby villages are indigenous peoples, who maintain cultural traditions that differ from mainstream Mexico. The predominant indigenous group in the park area are the Chujs. ===History=== Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello (its official name, and the one you'll see on road signs in the area) was included in the [[Mexico national parks]] system in 1959. The park is administered for the federal government by CONANP.[https://www.gob.mx/conanp/documentos/parque-nacional-lagunas-de-montebello-209454] ===Landscape=== The park is set on a high plateau with an elevation of about 5,000 feet. The terrain is rolling hills of pine forest with a dense concentration of streams and lakes. ===Flora and fauna=== The principal ecosystems represented in the park are coniferous forest, cloud forest, aquatic, and sub-aquatic vegetation. The park constitues a wetland with the many colorful lakes as its foundation. The park is an important biological corridor in the Americas representing both habitat to resident species and a vital migratory path for species that move between the North America and South America continents. Naturalists have spotted at least 277 species of birds, 65 species of mammals, and 35 species of reptiles in the park. Vegetation includes 208 species of trees, 50 species of orchids and a large number of ferns and other small ground shrubs. 106 species in the park are recognized as endangered and 27 as endemic, according to UNESCO. Mammal species include ocelots, jaguars, bobcats, deer, white-nose coatis, raccoons, squirrels and more. ===Climate=== Warm, humid conditions prevail throughout the year. Frequent rain, particularly in summer and early autumn. Rain showers are frequent, but often of short duration. Average annual rainfall in the park is 1862mm. ==Get in== The national park is in a remote area on Mexico's southern border with Guatemala. The easiest way for a traveler to visit the park is to fly into [[Tuxtla Gutiérrez]] (TGZ). Several daily flights are available from Mexico City (MEX) on Aeromexico and a few flights on Viva Aerobus and Volaris. In Tuxtla Gutierrez, you can rent a car, or take a bus to [[Comitán]]. Buses between Tuxtla Gutuierrez and Comitan are operated by Omnibus Cristobal Colon (OCC), depart every 3 hours, and cost M$150 to M$400, depending on bus class and time. From Comitan, it's an inexpensive taxi ride to the national park. There is also local buses that leaves from the center of Comitan as well as bus tours. If you rent a car in Tuxtla Gutierrez, it's about a 2-1/2 hour drive to Lagunas de Montebello National Park. From Tuxtla Gutierrez, drive east on MEX highway 190 (towards San Cristobal de las Casas / Comitán. Continue on Highway 190 for 15km to the town of Trinitaria. Turn left onto Highway 307 (Carreterra Trinitaria-Palenque). The entrance to Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebellow is at the kilometer 36 marker. ==Fees and permits== Park entrance fee is M$36 per person. Additional fees are charged to enter the village, or to rent balsa log rafts or canoes or kayaks. ==Get around== {{Mapframe |16.103|-91.719| zoom = 12}} Hiking is a good way to get around the park. You can also take a mototaxi that is waiting at the entrance of Tziscao. Horseback riding is also available. ==See== [[File:Chinkultic 0292.JPG|thumb|Mayan Pyramid at Chinkultic, Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello]] {{see | name=Chinkultic | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.127037 | long=-91.783228 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Open from 08:00 to 15:00 | price=Free | lastedit=2023-12-25 | content=This is a little-known Mayan archaeological site in the western section of the park. The once moderate-size city was abandoned around the 13th century AD. Most of the site has been unexplored with only a few archaeological digs in modern times. Few tourists visit the site, and even though the INAH maintains visitor facilities on the site, they are likely to be closed if you visit at a particularly light time of year. The highest point at the site is called ''the Acropolis'' and it serves as the site for a pyramid temple and a vantage point for views of the surrounding lakes. During the rainy season, low lying areas of the site flood, cutting off access to the Acropolis. }} * '''Grutas San Rafael del Arco''' is an area of the park with several limestone caves and two cenotes (underground sinkholes). ==Do== * '''Hiking''' {{do | name = Sandero el Pojoj | alt = | url = | email = | address = | lat =16.098383 | long =-91.673491 | directions = go up on the left after the entrance office | phone = | tollfree = | fax = | hours = | price = M$30 ( price is for access to 5 of the lakes around) | lastedit= 2023-12-25 | content = 3km one way hike to the viewpoints of lake Pojoj and Cinco Lagos. Hike is easy and go through the forest. Possibility to cross the 5 lakes on a raft for M$250 and to hike to other lakes from the other side (ask at the entrance if available). Otherwise you'll have to hike back. }} * '''Rafting''' (balsa log rafts for rent--''padrisimo!'') * '''Kayaking''' is available at Lago Tziscao, cinco lagos, and lago pojoj * '''Swimming''' * '''Nature watching''' * '''Horseback riding''' * '''Guided tours''' (guides available for hire at the park entrance) ==Buy== The nearest place for shopping is the town of [[Comitan]]. ==Eat== Food is available in the park at Tziscao. Better, and wider choices are available in the town of Comitan. ==Drink== Bring bottled water. ==Sleep== Hotels and boutique inns are available in the town of [[Comitán]] (about 30km from the park). Rustic lodging and camping are available inside the national park. ===Lodging=== Cabins are available for rent in the park from M$300 per night. The main village, called Tziscao, is located on the shores of the lake Tziscao within the park. The village has a small hotel and lot of cabins to rent. {{sleep | name=Cabañas Montebello | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=16.08424 | long=-91.671638 | directions=Ask at the small kiosque across form the restaurant. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=M$500 | lastedit=2023-12-25 | content=Well maintained cabins with beautiful views over the lake. Has swimming access. Hot water, good WiFi and barbecue available. }} ===Camping=== Camping is allowed in several areas of the park. Inquire at the park entrance. There is also a campground in the village of Tziscao. ==Stay safe== Mosquitos and other insects are common in the park, with its high humidity and many wetland areas. Bring repellant. Sunblock is recommended while you're doing land-based activities, but remember that sunblock is an environmental hazard in lakes or cenotes. Park regulations ban use of sunblock while in or on the lakes. ==Go next== A couple of nearby cities are designated as '''Pueblos Magicos''' by the Mexican government. Both are picturesque cities with a wide range of hotels and good quality restaurants offering regional cuisine: * '''[[Comitán]]''' * '''[[San Cristobal de las Casas]]''' Following the highway towards Palenque you can stop at : * '''Las nubes'''- a series of turquoise waterfall where water activities are available. *[[Reforma Agraria|'''Las guacamayas ecotourism center''']] - On the edge of the Montes Azules N.P Eco center preserving Aras and offering hike and boat tour into the Lacandon Jungle {{IsPartOf|Chiapas}} {{outlinepark}} {{related|Mexico_national_parks}} {{geo|16.0987|-91.6732}} s4dent0c5ml4bd3k0hhfzystexavdtc 0 201197 5091203 5059180 2025-07-11T05:44:24Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Finland */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091203 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Vasa Ship panoramio banner.jpg|caption=The Vasa Museum}} '''Maritime history''' concerns the history of boats, ships, shipbuilding and life at sea. ==Understand== {{mapframe}} People have travelled at sea since time immemorial. Some ancient peoples such as the [[Maori culture|Maori]] and the [[Vikings and the Old Norse|Vikings]] braved oceans, but it was only the [[Age of Discovery]] from the 15th century which charted all the world's oceans. In the 19th century, [[steam power]] revolutionized seafaring. For much of history, the most advanced ships have been warships, making maritime history relevant for [[military tourism]]. Destinations includes stationary museum ships, museums on land, heritage ferries, [[lighthouses]] and other places and vessels relevant to seafaring. Some museum ships are hotels or nightlife venues, as well as attractions in their own right. ==Destinations== === [[Argentina]] === * {{see | name=Ushuaia Maritime Museum | alt=Museo Maritimo y Presidio de Ushuaia | url=http://www.museomaritimo.com/ | address=[[Ushuaia]], [[Argentina]] | lat=-54.803458 | long=-68.297882 | content=Eclectic museum in what was once a military fort but now houses the Maritime Museum, an Antarctic Museum, and a Prison Museum. The maritime exhibits are mostly models, maps, and interpretive exhibits telling the tale of whaling ships of the 19th and early 20th century, though they also have a replica lighthouse. }} === [[Australia]] === * {{listing | type=see | name=Australian National Maritime Museum | alt= | url=http://www.anmm.gov.au/site/page.cfm | email= | address=[[Sydney/Darling Harbour|Pyrmont Bay]], Sydney | lat=-33.8692 | long=151.199 | directions= | wikipedia=Australian National Maritime Museum | image=AusNatMM.JPG | wikidata=Q844329 | content=Two floors of internal exhibits, outlining the maritime role in Australia's history. Houses significant full scale exhibits. Outside there are ships and submarines to explore. }} * {{see | name=Queensland Maritime Museum | alt= | url=http://maritimemuseum.com.au/ | email=info@maritimemuseum.com.au | address=[[Brisbane]] | lat=-27.48148 | long=153.02621 | directions= | wikipedia=Queensland Maritime Museum | image=Queensland_Maritime_Museum_02.JPG | wikidata=Q7270964 | lastedit=2016-01-10 | content=Has a range of exhibitions and vessels. Step aboard the HMAS ''Diamantina'' and experience life as a Navy sailor. Be sure to see Ella's ''Pink Lady'', the yacht Queenslander Jessica Watson sailed solo unassisted during her record-breaking journey to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world. }} * {{see | name=Maritime Museum of Tasmania | alt= | url=http://www.maritimetas.org/ | email=info@maritimetas.org | address=[[Hobart]] | lat=-42.88265 | long=147.33163 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This museum houses the largest collection of maritime artefacts in Tasmania. Displays include information on the early maritime history of Tasmania, the role of lighthouses, the whaling industry, maritime trade, boat building and shipping. }} * {{see | name=WA Maritime Museum | alt= | url=http://museum.wa.gov.au/museums/maritime | email= | address=[[Perth/Fremantle|Fremantle]], Perth | lat=-32.05471 | long=115.7389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Western Australian Museum#Maritime and Shipwrecks Museums | wikidata=Q72995683 | lastedit=2016-05-15 | content=A wonderful collection of vessels, including the winged-keel Australia II, which won the America's Cup. You'll also find a full history of marine activity on the West Australian coast. A tour of HMAS ''Ovens'', a retired Oberon-class submarine, is well worth the time. }} * {{see | name=South Australian Maritime Museum | alt= | url=https://maritime.history.sa.gov.au/ | email= | address=[[Adelaide/Port Adelaide, Enfield, Prospect and Outer Harbor|Port Adelaide]] | lat= | long= | directions= | wikipedia=South Australian Maritime Museum | wikidata=Q18165679 | content=Exhibits related to the maritime history of the region, from the first European explorers sailing the waters to immigrants arriving by boat and the Australian Navy of today. }} === [[Chile]] === * {{see | name=Museo Maritimo Nacional | alt=National Maritime Museum | address=[[Valparaiso]] | wikidata=Q17166403 | content=Large waterfront museum with 17 rooms on 2 floors. Many exhibits about the history of the Chilean Navy and famous seamen. One room focuses only on navigating around Cape Horn, with a history of crossing between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans stretching back to the 17th century. Fascinating exhibit on pirates and piracy with a full-size replica of an historic pirate ship. }} === [[China]] (Mainland)=== * {{see | name=China Maritime Museum | alt=中国海航博物馆 | url=https://www.shmmc.com.cn/English/3/ | email= | address=[[Shanghai/Nanhui | Nanhui, Shanghai]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q10874083 | lastedit=2024-06-20 | content= }} * {{see | name=China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea | alt=中国(海南)南海博物馆 | url=http://www.nanhaimuseum.org/ | email=| address=[[Tanmen]], Hainan Province | lat=19.23151 | long=110.59962 | directions=| phone= | tollfree=| hours= | price=| lastedit=| content=Hainan's second largest publicly-owned museum. The first exhibition hall focuses on the historical basis for China's territorial claims in the South China Sea, and includes maps and documents that purportedly demonstrate that China has exercised sovereignty over the region for centuries. Another notable exhibition is a collection of artefacts that were recovered from the Huangguangjiao One, a Chinese merchant vessel that sunk near Huangguang Reef during the Song Dynasty. A replica of the ship can be seen on the outside of the building. }} * {{see| name=China Port Museum | alt=中国港口博物馆 | url=https://www.portmuseum.cn/doc/ywb/index.shtml | email=| address=[[Ningbo]], Zhejiang Province | lat=29.7587256858 | long=121.9054482358 | directions=| phone= | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| image=Outside China Port Museum, 2014-10-18 01.JPG| lastedit=| content=A major national-level maritime museum in Ningbo's busy harbour district. }} * {{see | name=Guangzhou Maritime Museum | alt=广州海事博物馆 | url=https://www.gzhsmuseum.com/ | email= | address=[[Guangzhou/North and East | Huangpu District, Guangzhou]] | lat=23.081700 | long=113.496656 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-10-30 | content= }} * {{see | name=Maritime Silk Road Museum of Guangdong | alt=广东海上丝绸之路博物馆 | url=https://www.msrmuseum.com/Home/Enindex | email=| address=[[Yangjiang]], Guangdong Province | lat=21.5749742894 | long=111.8689860289 | directions=| phone= | tollfree= | fax=| hours= | price=| wikipedia=Maritime Silk Route Museum | image=Yangjiang Hailing Dao Nanhai 1 Hao 2013.09.15 10-50-33.jpg | wikidata=Q32174988| lastedit=| content= }} * {{see | name=Museum of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy | alt=中国人民解放军海军博物馆, previously known as the Qingdao Naval Museum | url=http://www.hjbwg.com/en_home | email=| address=[[Qingdao]], Shandong Province | lat=36.05456 | long=120.32387 | directions=| phone= | tollfree=| hours= | price=| content=A major national-level museum with exhibits on the history of the Chinese navy, as well as full-size warships that visitors may tour. }} * {{see | name=National Maritime Museum of China | alt=国家海洋博物馆 | url=https://www.nmmc.cc/ | email= | address=Binhai New Area, [[Tianjin]] | lat=39.105099 | long=117.78934 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content= }} *{{see | name=[[Quanzhou#Maritime Museum|Quanzhou Maritime Museum]] | alt=Quanzhou Overseas Relations Museum | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17163836 | content=This Chinese city was a major terminus of the [[Maritime Silk Road]] and a base for some of [[Zheng He]]'s voyages. }} * {{do | name=Tianjin TEDA Aircraft Carrier Theme Park | alt=天津泰达航母主题公园 | url=http://en.binhaipark.cn/ | email= | address=Binhai New Area, [[Tianjin]] | lat=39.155187 | long=117.808106 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-19 | content=The star of this theme park is the Kiev, a decommissioned Soviet aircraft carrier dating from 1970. Visitors are able to board the Kiev and take a look around. A mock sea battle involving the Kiev is performed daily between the months of May and October. Also on display are a Chinese-made destroyer and a Chinese-made submarine. Besides exploring the old naval vessels, visitors can also immerse themselves in Russian culture at a Russian culture street featuring Russian shops and restaurants as well as live Russian cultural performances. }} *{{see | name=[[Mawei#See|Battle of Fuzhou]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2562509 | content=Mawei, a suburb of Fuzhou, has been a port with a major shipyard for centuries and remains so today. In 1884 the French sank much of the Chinese Navy here. The remains of Foochow Arsenal can be visited and there is a temple commemorating the Chinese dead. }} === [[Germany]] === * {{see | name=[[Hamburg/Neustadt-Altstadt#Q937608|Internationales Maritimes Museum]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=53.54341 | long=9.99993 | directions=[[Hamburg]], [[Germany]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Hamburg_Maritimes_Museum_HafenCity_6172.jpg | wikidata=Q937608 | content=Covering ten floors with 1,000 large and 36,000 miniature models, plans, paintings, photos, films, numerous nautical devices, historic uniforms, and maritime objects. About two thirds of the collection is on permanent display. A modern ship simulator lets visitors try their hand at navigating a container vessel into port. }} === [[Hong Kong]] === * {{see | name=Hong Kong Maritime Museum | alt=香港海事博物館 | url=http://www.hkmaritimemuseum.org/ | email= | address=[[Hong Kong/Central|Central Hong Kong]] | lat=22.28669 | long=114.16206 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | content=In addition to original artifacts, cannons, scrolls, ship's models and paintings, the galleries of Hong Kong Maritime Museum have over 25 interactive screens to introduce visitors to the vast range of stories and topics at the heart of Hong Kong's – and the world's – maritime story. You can learn of Poon Lim, the world record holder for solo survival at sea. See how a junk is built. Trace the development of China's trade routes from the Han to the Qing Dynasty. Investigate China Trade paintings. Hunt pirates. Load a container ship. }} The nearby Star Ferry to Kowloon operates several older vessels, in 2023 it includes ferries built in the 1950s. === [[Indonesia]] === * {{see | name=Maritime Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Jakarta]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2030607 | content=In what was once a Dutch East India Company warehouse. }} ===[[Japan]]=== *{{see | name=Hikawa Maru | alt=氷川丸 | url= | email= | address=Yamashita Park. Yamashita-cho, Naka-ku | lat=35.446682 | long=139.651252 | directions=[[Yokohama]], [[Japan]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | wikipedia=Hikawa Maru | image=Hikawa-maruYokohama.jpg | wikidata=Q1186344 | content=This passenger liner made 238 voyages across the Pacific to Seattle and Vancouver between 1930 and 1960, and served as a hospital ship during World War II. The ship is also used for movie and TV location shooting including the 1997 film ''Moonlight Serenade'' and the 2005 NHK drama ''Haru e Natsu''. }} ===[[Mexico]]=== *{{see | name=Museo Naval México | address=[[Veracruz]] | lat=19.19948656346113 | long=-96.13457563339952 | content=Exhibits about the history of Mexico's navy with a large collection of weaponry, ship models, and various pieces of maritime history. }} ===[[Netherlands]]=== * {{see | name=Maritiem Museum|alt=Maritime Museum | url=http://www.maritiemmuseum.nl/en | email= | address=Leuvehaven 1 | lat=51.9176 | long=4.4822 | directions=[[Rotterdam]], [[Netherlands]] | phone =+31 10 413 26 80 | tollfree= | fax=+31 10 413 73 42 | hours= | wikidata=Q2755458 | content=A variety of expositions about the harbour of Rotterdam and maritime history. The museum also has an outdoor part of which the '''Museumschip De Buffel''' is the absolute highlight. This 19th-century gunboat is restored in all its glory and a must-see for naval enthusiasts. }} ===[[New Zealand]]=== *{{see | name=New Zealand Maritime Museum | alt= | url=http://www.maritimemuseum.co.nz/ | email= | address=[[Auckland/Central|Central Auckland]], [[New Zealand]] | lat=-36.8423 | long=174.7632 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=New Zealand Maritime Museum | image=New Zealand Maritime Museum.jpg | wikidata=Q7942457 | lastedit=2017-01-09 | content=Many interesting exhibits chronicle New Zealand's maritime history, including actual yachts from the America's Cup and interactive displays and machines. There is an Auckland harbour cruise on an old-style cargo scow that takes about 1 hour and costs extra. You can also see the "ship in a bottle" exhibit, and meet the volunteers working on the models. }} *{{see | name=Torpedo Bay Navy Museum | alt= | url=https://navymuseum.co.nz/ | email= | address=[[Devonport (New Zealand)|Devonport]], Auckland New Zealand | lat=-36.8287 | long=174.8093 | directions | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | wikidata=Q7826736 | lastedit=2025-02-03 | content=The museum of the Royal New Zealand Navy. The collection documents New Zealand's rich naval heritage. There are displays of uniforms, ships, artifacts and naval memorabilia. }} * Elsewhere in New Zealand, the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum in [[Picton (New Zealand)|Picton]] and [[Wellington/City|Wellington]] Museum are worth a visit. * {{do | name=TSS Earnslaw | alt= | url=https://www.realjourneys.co.nz/en/experiences/cruises/tss-earnslaw-steamship-cruises/ | email= | address=[[Queenstown (New Zealand)|Queenstown]] | lat=-45.03 | long=168.65 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=TSS Earnslaw | image=TSS Earnslaw.jpg | wikidata=Q7671681 | lastedit=2023-09-27 | content=The TSS Earnslaw is a historic 1912 coal powered steamship which offers daily tours. Lake cruises on Lake Wakatipu offer great views of the town, surrounding mountains, etc. }} ===[[Nordic countries]]=== ==== [[Finland]] ==== * {{see | name=''Pommern'' | alt= | url=https://www.pommern.ax/en/| email= | address=[[Mariehamn]], [[Åland]], Finland | lat=60.09719 | long=19.92524 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Pommern (ship) | commons=Pommern (ship, 1903) | wikidata=Q1775746 | lastedit= | content=''Pommern'' is a four-masted barque (windjammer) built at J. Reid & Co shipyard in Glasgow in 1903. She soon became one of the Flying P-Liners, the famous sailing ships of the German shipping company F. Laeisz. Later she belonged to Gustaf Erikson of Åland, who used her (and the rest of his windjammers) to carry grain from the Spencer Gulf area in Australia to harbours in England and Ireland until the outbreak of World War II. She was thus one of the last cargo-carrying large sailing ships. }} * {{see | name=Åland Maritime Museum | alt=Ålands sjöfartsmuseum | url=http://www.sjofartsmuseum.ax/en | email= | address=[[Mariehamn]], [[Åland]], Finland | lat=60.09753 | long=19.92667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Åland Maritime Museum | wikidata=Q4357413 | lastedit=2020-08-11 | commons=Åland Maritime Museum | content=This impressive museum preserves memories of the sailing ships. One of its exhibits being the red-brown captain’s saloon from the famous four-masted barque ''Herzogin Cecilie'', built as cargo-carrying sail training ship for Germany, after World War II bought by Gustaf Erikson, and used for the Australian grain trade. }} * {{see | name=Maritime Centre Vellamo | alt=Merikeskus Vellamo | url=https://www.merikeskusvellamo.fi/en/ | email= | address=[[Kotka]], [[Kymenlaakso]], Finland | lat=60.47242 | long=26.94502 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2945864 | lastedit=2024-05-17 | commons=Maritime Centre Vellamo | content=This modern museum offers unforgettable experiences for the entire family. You can explore the Maritime Museum of Finland, Kymenlaakso Museum, Coast Guard Museum, and the versatile multipurpose room, Ruuma. These exhibitions and events are not only thought-provoking but also designed to stimulate the imaginations of visitors of all ages. The maritime centre's name ''Vellamo'' refers to the goddess of water, lakes and seas from the Finnish mythology. }} ==== [[Norway]] ==== * {{see | name=The Viking Ship Museum | alt=Vikingskipshuset | url= | email= | address=Oslo | lat=59.904945 | long=10.684408 | directions=[[Bygdøy]], [[Oslo]], [[Norway]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=All year | price= | wikidata=Q961220 | wikipedia=Viking Ship Museum (Oslo) | content=The main attractions here are the Gokstad, Oseberg and Tune Viking ships, all originals. The Viking Ship Museum is part of Museum of Cultural History, which is a department of University of Oslo (UiO). }} ==== [[Sweden]] ==== *{{see | name=Vasa Museum | alt=Vasamuseet | url=http://www.vasamuseet.se/ | email= | address=Galärvarvsvägen 14 | lat=59.32807 | long=18.09139 | directions=[[Stockholm/Djurgården]], [[Sweden]] | phone= | tollfree= | wikidata=Q901371 | hours= | price= | content=This museum displays the ''Vasa'', an original warship built for the [[Thirty Years War]] which sank in Stockholm Harbour on its maiden voyage in 1628, during the heyday of the [[Swedish Empire]]. Salvaged in 1961, the ship is almost wholly preserved, and is the only one of its kind and quality in the world. }} *{{see | name=Vrak – Museum of Wrecks | wikidata=Q49103261 | directions=[[Stockholm/Djurgården]], [[Sweden]] | content=Virtual reality and other modern technologies present the shipwrecks of the Baltic Sea, of which many remains on the seafloor. }} *{{see | name=Karlskrona Maritime Museum | alt= | url=http://www.marinmuseum.se/en/ | email= | address=Stumholmen | lat=56.160795 | long=15.598943 | directions=[[Karlskrona]], [[Sweden]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q10577450 | content=A very large maritime museum on the waterfront with spectacular vistas. Most of the exhibits are in Swedish, so be sure to pick up an audio guide. The exhibits consist principally of a very large and impressive collection of wooden ship models, and life-size interiors of ships that can be walked through. }} * {{see | name=Maritime Museum | alt=Sjöhistoriska museet | url=http://www.sjohistoriska.se/en/ | email= | address=Djurgårdsbrunnsvägen 24 | lat=59.33249 | long=18.11590 | directions=[[Stockholm]], [[Sweden]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1647895 | content=Exhibits Sweden's long history as a seafaring nation. Remnants of the ''Amphion'', an 18th-century Royal yacht, and a broad collection of scale models. }} * {{see | name=Maritiman | alt= | url=http://www.maritiman.se/en | email= | address= | lat=57.7093 | long=11.9607 | directions=[[Gothenburg]], [[Sweden]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3293750 |lastedit=2019-11-17| content="The world's biggest floating museum of ships" consists of 19 boats of all sizes. The biggest attraction is the former military destroyer ''Småland''. }} * {{sleep | name=STF Vandrarhem af Chapman | alt= | url=https://www.swedishtouristassociation.com/facilities/stf-stockholmaf-chapman-skeppsholmen-hostel-house/ | email= | address=[[Stockholm/Norrmalm|Norrmalm]], [[Stockholm]] | lat=59.32531 | long=18.08019 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Dorm beds from 260&nbsp;kr (non-member surcharge 50&nbsp;kr) | wikidata=Q382006 | lastedit=2023-10-02 | content=A youth hostel in a full-rigged ship, known as ''Af Chapman'' for short, and an adjacent building. The ship was built in Whitehaven, England in 1888, and sailed until 1934 and then used as an accommodation ship, becoming a hostel in 1949. You can specify whether you want to stay in the ship or on land, and it really is a spectacular place to stay. }} === [[Philippines]] === * {{see | name=[[Iloilo_City#Maritime Museum|National Maritime Museum]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=[[Iloilo City]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q113268477 | content=On the ground floor of the old Customs House, which is itself a tourist attraction. }} === [[Portugal]] === * {{see | name=Museu da Marinha | alt=Navy Museum | url=https://ccm.marinha.pt/pt/museu/ | email= | address=Praça do Império | lat= | long= | directions=[[Lisbon/Belém]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | wikidata=Q1540177 | lastedit= | content=One of the most important maritime museums in Europe, evoking Portugal's domination of the seas. Its colossal 17,000 items are installed in the west wing of Jerónimos Monastery, and include model ships from the Age of Discovery onward. The oldest exhibit is a wooden figure representing the Archangel Raphael that accompanied Vasco da Gama on [[Cape Route|his voyage to India]]. }} === [[South Africa]] === * {{see | name=Maritime Centre | alt= | url=http://www.iziko.org.za/museums/maritime-centre | address=[[Cape Town]] | lat=-33.905732 | long=18.420159 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-11-06 | content=The museum documents the lives of the early seafarers voyaging around the Cape of Good Hope. Small craft, locally made and various maritime artifacts are also showcased. The huge model ships are the highlight of the museum. }} === [[Spain]] === * {{see | name=Maritime Museum | alt=Museu Maritime MMB | url=http://www.mmb.cat/ | email= | address=[[Barcelona/Ciutat Vella|Ciutat Vella]], Barcelona | lat=41.375028 | long=2.176369 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax | wikipedia=Maritime Museum of Barcelona | image=Drassanes barcelona.jpg | wikidata=Q1286354 | content=Housed in Drassanes, the Gothic shipyard of the city. During the 14th century, the Arag&oacute; Crown was the most important power in the Mediterranean Sea, and this was the main place where the ships where built. Nowadays it's the Maritime Museum, worth a visit for the architectonic structure, a still-standing part of the ancient medieval city wall (including a gate), and the reproduction of the royal galley of Don John of Austria, the Spanish flagship at the battle of Lepanto. }} === [[Tanzania]] === * {{do | name=[[MV Liemba]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=-4.8833 | long=29.6333 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q569645 | content=This ship was built around 1915 for the [[German Empire|Imperial German]] navy, intended to dominate on [[Lake Tanganyika]]. She is still (as of 2023) in service as a ferry and has become a tourist attraction. Sails from [[Kigoma]] to [[Mpulungu]] in Zambia. }} === [[Turkey]] === * {{see | name=[[Bodrum#Q1113602|Museum of Underwater Archaeology]] | alt= | url= | email= | address=[[Bodrum]] | lat=37.0317 | long=27.4294 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bodrum Castle | wikidata=Q1113602 | lastedit=2023-09-29 | content=Housed in a medieval fort, the museum exhibits several shipwrecks – as much as centuries of underwater deterioration permitted to remain – and objects found aboard them salvaged from the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. The highlight is the late Bronze Age "Uluburun wreck" from the 14th century BC, a rare insight into trade and travel in the ancient Mediterranean, sank while carrying goods from origins as disparate as the Baltic, Africa, and [[Ancient Mesopotamia|Mesopotamia]], and even with some tin mined in Uzbekistan. Another museum nearby displays the town's history of seafaring and living off the sea, with a section dedicated to ''gulet''s, the traditional two-masted schooners of the Turkish southwest. }} === [[United Kingdom]] === * {{see | name=The National Maritime Museum | url=http://www.rmg.co.uk/national-maritime-museum | email= | address= | lat=51.4811 | long=-0.0056 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1199924| wikipedia=National Maritime Museum | image=EH1211481 National Maritime Museum 10.JPG | content=Museum devoted to the maritime role in Britain's history. Contains the UK's national collection of maritime artefacts (although do not expect much in the way of whole ships). Nearby is the Cutty Sark, a clipper built in 1869, and the Old Royal Naval College built in 1694. }} * {{see | name=Merseyside Maritime Museum | alt= | url=https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/maritime-museum | email= | address=[[Liverpool]] | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Merseyside Maritime Museum | image=Merseyside Maritime Museum, Albert Dock, Liverpool - geograph.org.uk - 633029.jpg | wikidata=Q12061716 | lastedit=2021-11-05 | content=Museum with permanent gallery devoted to the ''Titanic'', ''Lusitania'' and ''Forgotten Empress''. }} * {{see | name=The Historic Dockyard | alt= | url=https://thedockyard.co.uk/ | email= | address=[[Chatham (England)|Chatham]] | lat=51.3965 | long=0.5292 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chatham Historic Dockyard | wikidata=Q5087663 | lastedit=2023-09-27 | content=The most traditional and historic Royal Naval dockyard, established by the 1560s under Elizabeth I, ceased operations in 1984 and is now run as a museum. There are several naval ships and a submarine open to visit, and a working rope factory. At {{acre|80}}, it is possibly the largest maritime museum in the world. }} * {{see | name=Scottish Maritime Museum | alt= | url=https://www.scottishmaritimemuseum.org | email= | address=[[Irvine (Scotland)|Irvine]] | lat=55.6112 | long=-4.6791 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Scottish Maritime Museum | image=Linthousebuilding2.JPG | wikidata=Q7437853 | lastedit=2022-09-15 | content=Well-presented museum with displays of ship-building and shipping along the Clyde coast. There's another branch in [[Dumbarton]]. }} * {{see | name=Aberdeen Maritime Museum | alt= | url=http://www.aagm.co.uk/Visit/AberdeenMaritimeMuseum/amm-overview.aspx | email= | address=[[Aberdeen]] | lat=57.14651 | long=-2.0949 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Aberdeen Maritime Museum | image=Maritime Museum Aberdeen - Front.jpg | wikidata=Q4666952 | lastedit=2021-10-07 | content=This museum tells the story of Aberdeen's relationship with the sea, from fishing to trade to North Sea oil. It offers an extraordinary insight into the mechanics and technology of ships and oil rigs, Aberdeen's rich maritime history and the lives of some of the people who have worked offshore in the North Sea for the past 500 years. }} * {{see | name=RRS Discovery | alt= | url=https://www.rrsdiscovery.com/ | email= | address=[[Dundee]] | lat=56.45679 | long=-2.96833 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=RRS Discovery | image=RRS Discovery-Dundee.jpg | wikidata=Q82257 | lastedit=2020-02-02 | content=''Discovery'', launched in 1901, is an Royal Research Ship (RRS) specifically built for Antarctic exploration, used for [[In_the_footsteps_of_explorers#Robert Falcon Scott|Scott's]] 1902 expedition when it became icebound for two years. The museum has an extensive display of the 1902-04 expedition, and then you go aboard the dry-docked ship, which had a later career as a polar merchant vessel. Nearby is HMS ''Unicorn'', a frigate launched in 1824. }} * {{see | name=Brunel's SS Great Britain | alt= | url=http://www.ssgreatbritain.org/ | email= | address=[[Bristol]] | lat=51.44813 | long=-2.60578 | directions= | phone=+44 117 926-0680 | tollfree= | fax=+44 117 925-5788 | wikipedia=SS Great Britain | wikidata=Q744086 | content=The world's first iron hulled, screw propeller-driven, steam-powered passenger liner, built by Brunel in 1843 and now preserved in a dry-dock alongside the floating harbour. }} * {{do | name=Steamship Sir Walter Scott | alt= | url=https://www.lochkatrine.com/cruises/loch-cruises/ | email= | address= | lat=56.23442 | long=-4.43007 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-05-07 | content=launched 1900, sails from Trossachs Pier across Loch Katrine, part of [[Loch Lomond]] National Park in Scotland. }} * {{do | name=PS Waverley | alt= | url=http://www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk/ | email= | address= | lat=55.85961 | long=-4.29636 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-05-07 | content=is the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world. Built in 1946, she sailed on the Firth of Clyde for many years, with regular summer excursions. The home port is Glasgow with regular sailings down the River Clyde mainly in July and August. There were also cruises up the west coast and Hebrides of Scotland, as well as around the Bristol Channel, Thames and south coast of England. }} === [[United States]] === * {{see | name=Mayflower II and dockside exhibits | alt= | url= | email= | address=State Pier, Water St, [[Plymouth (Massachusetts)]] | lat=41.95981 | long=-70.66193 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q49523002 | content=A historically accurate, full-scale replica of the 17th-century vessel the Pilgrims arrived aboard. The reproduction was made in England using traditional shipbuilding methods in conjunction with Plimoth Plantation. Upon its completion, it set sail on April 20, 1957 from Plymouth, England across the Atlantic to Plymouth, Massachusetts, recreating the original voyage. }} * {{see | name=Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum | url=https://www.patriotspoint.org/ | address=[[Sullivan's Island]] | lat=32.7908 | long=-79.9056 | directions=just outside [[Charleston (South Carolina)]] | phone= | tollfree= | content=The star attraction is the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown. A destroyer is berthed alongside and the museum has a submarine that is not open for tours. }} *{{see | name=USS Salem & the U.S. Naval Shipbuilding Museum | alt= | url=http://www.uss-salem.org | email= | address= | lat=42.244167 | long=-70.97 | directions=[[Quincy (Massachusetts)]], United States | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=USS Salem (CA-139) | image=USS_Salem_relocation_August_2017.jpg | wikidata=Q2003925 | content=The USS Salem is a 716-foot-long US Navy Heavy Cruiser Gunship and is the world's only example of that class of ship. The Salem was among the most advanced war ships of her day and served until 1959. She is now permanently moored at the place of her birth, the former Fore River Shipyard. The ship is also home to the US Naval Shipbuilding museum and has on display thousands of items relating to naval history and shipbuilding. }} * {{see | name=[[San_Diego/Downtown#Q3330638|Maritime Museum of San Diego]] | alt= | url= | email= | address=| lat=32.7205 | long=-117.17358 | directions=[[San Diego]], [[United States of America]] | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=| price= | wikipedia=Maritime Museum of San Diego | image=SDMM-ships-museum-overall.jpg | wikidata=Q3330638 | content=Home to a number of historic sea vessels, including the ''Star of India'', the world's oldest active sailing ship, the ''Berkeley'', an 1898 steam ferryboat, the ''Californian'', a replica sailing ship, the ''Medea'', a 1904 steam yacht, the ''HMS Surprise'', another replica sailing ship, and a B-39 Soviet Attack Submarine. Museum exhibits document the evolution of maritime technology and tell the history of San Diego as a commercial fishery and naval base. }} * {{see | name=Historic Ships of Baltimore | alt= | url=https://historicships.org/ | email= | address=Inner Harbor | lat=39.2859 | long=-76.611 | directions=[[Baltimore]], [[Maryland]] | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Tour a number of historic ships as well as a retired screw lighthouse. Ships include the ''U.S.S. Constellation'' (last U.S. Navy vessel to use sails), the lightship ''Chesapeake'', the submarine ''Torsk'', and the ''Taney'' (coast guard cutter that was at Pearl Harbor when the Japanese attacked). Also interesting: the ''NS Savannah'' (world's first nuclear merchant ship) and the liberty ship ''John Brown'' are docked a couple of miles away; both ships are open for visitors. }} ==Itineraries== These journeys are listed in chronological order. * [[Trojan War]], supposedly 12th century BC * [[Silk Road#Maritime Silk Road]], antiquity * [[Voyages of Zheng He]], 1405 to 1433 * [[Voyages of Columbus]], 1492 to 1502 * [[Cape Route]], since 1498 * [[Magellan-Elcano circumnavigation]], 1519 to 1522 * [[Voyages of James Cook]], 1761 to 1780 * [[Voyages of George Vancouver]], 1791 to 95 * [[Voyages of Matthew Flinders]], 1795 to 1810 * [[Voyages of John Franklin]], 1819 to 1847 * [[Around the World in Eighty Days]], 1872 * [[Voyages of Roald Amundsen]], 1903 to 1923 * [[RMS Titanic]], 1912 * [[Voyages of Thor Heyerdahl]], 1947 to 1979 ==See also== * [[Age of Discovery]] * [[Automotive history]] * [[Aviation history]] * [[Fishing]] * [[Hanseatic League]] * [[Navigation]] {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|Historical travel}} jox5t3p5nduo7of4scp7uoa2etl9va5 0 202077 5091173 5077977 2025-07-11T03:02:27Z DaGizza 162256 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for Casino Hotel 5091173 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Cherai banner Fishing nets.jpg|pgname=Old Kochi}} [[File:Chinese fishing nets in Kochi, Kerala.jpg|thumb|A Chinese fishing net at Fort Kochi Beach]] '''Old Kochi''' is the tourist enclave of [[Kochi]], and it is separated from [[Kochi/Ernakulam|Ernakulam]] by Vembanad Lake, one of the largest in India. It consists of Fort Kochi, Mattancherry and the surrounding islands. Fort Kochi is known for its neatly arranged colonial buildings, narrow well-paved roads, Anglo-Dutch influenced structures and large antiques shops. The nearby Mattancherry is primarily a trading centre, famous for its thriving Gujarati settlement brought to the city in the 16th and 17th centuries by the spice trade. The surrounding islands include Vallarpadom Island, Vypin Island and Willingdon Island. Vypin Island is one of the most densely populated islands in the world with numerous fishing villages, tourist villages and the popular Cherai Beach. Willingdon Island is a large artificial island. ==Get in== {{Mapframe|name=Map of Old Kochi}} {{Mapshape|wikidata=Q16134795}} The Vembanad Lake between Ernakulam and Old Kochi is not well-bridged, and it is better to get into the peninsula by ferry. ===By car=== '''NH 966B''' connects Ernakulam to Old Kochi, and might be the be option if you want to get around using your own vehicle. ===By ferry=== There are ferry services between Fort Kochi–Ernakulam and Mattancherry–Ernakulam. The surrounding islands can also be reached using ferry. ===By water metro=== There's a water metro service between Vypin Island and High Court. ==See== [[File:Cevisit2.jpg|thumb|The Dutch Palace, which was the coronation palaces of Cochin Maharaja]] * {{see | name=Bastion Bungalow | alt= | url= | email= | address=Napier St, Fort Kochi | lat=9.9673 | long=76.2412 | directions= | phone=+91 1800 425 4747 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Bastion Bunglow | wikidata=Q4868347 | content=Typical Indo-Dutch architecture, this bungalow was built on the site of the erstwhile Stromsburg Fort, which was demolished during the Arab raids. It serves as the official residence of the Cochin Sub-Collector, and entry is restricted. }} * {{see | name=Chinese Fishing Nets | alt=Cheenavala | url= | email= | address=Fort Kochi Beach, Beach Rd | lat=9.9684 | long=76.2422 | directions=Next to Fort Kochi Bus stand | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q26794327 | lastedit=2023-01-24 | content=Serves as the official icon of Kochi and is a testimony of relations between the Ancient Chinese Empires and the Cochin Kingdom. They were gifted by the Chinese Emperor Kubalagi to the Kochi King in the 14th century. There were more than 100, though only a few remain in working condition. }} * {{see | name=David Hall | alt= | url=http://www.davidhall.in/ | email= | address=1/264, Napier St, Fort Kochi | lat=9.9652 | long=76.2395 | directions=Opp. Parade Ground | phone=+91 484 221 8298 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Tu-Su 11AM-7PM | price= | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=This 315 year-old Dutch bungalow was the official residence of Dutch Army commanders, the most famous being Hendrik Adriaan van Rheede tot Draakestein, who authored ''Horticus Malabaricus''. The complex belongs to the Netherlands Govt. agency CNO which has been renovated to open a large art gallery, a traditional Dutch performing arts centre and a large studio for young painters. The building is a classic specimen of colonial Dutch architecture with elaborate Dutch gardens. Check at the reception to know the schedule of cultural performances. }} * {{see | name=Dutch Palace | alt=Mattancherry Kottaram | url= | email= | address=Palace Rd, Mattancherry | lat=9.95827 | long=76.25938 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Sa-Th 10AM-5PM | price=₹5 |lastedit=2017-12-20 | content=Constructed by the Portuguese in 1568 as a gift to the Maharaja of Cochin, Veera Kerala Varma, after he granted permission to construct Fort Immanuel. During the Dutch siege of Cochin, many parts of the original palace were destroyed. However, the Dutch Governor repaired the palace and renamed it as Dutch Palace. Coronations of Cochin Maharajas are held here. A large throne and coronation costumes are on display, and there is an extensive collection of royal chariots, swords and other artefacts. The most interesting part is the mural room, which has the entire Ramayana and Mahabharata depicted in a single mural. }} * {{see | name=Greenix Tourist Theater | alt= | url= | email= | address=Greenix Village, Kalvatty, Fort Kochi | lat=9.968604002018754 | long=76.24994930650058 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2017-06-17| content=A good cultural theatre with a gallery, food court and mini museum. }} * {{see | name=International Pepper Exchange | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jew town, Fort Kochi | lat=9.9565 | long=76.26 | directions= | phone=+91 484 253 9001 | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q9008932 | lastedit=2023-01-24 | content=Kochi's answer to New York's [[Wall Street]], but instead of money, it's all about pepper trading. This is the world's only pepper exchange. Nowadays, trading all happens online, so there is not much to see any more except the historical place. }} * {{see | name=Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village | alt= | url=http://kumbalangy.com/ | email= | address=Kumbalangi island | lat=9.87977 | long=76.28353 | directions=15 km from city centre | phone=+91 98479 31669 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q27961577 | lastedit=2023-11-14 | content=India's first eco-tourist village, this award-winning initiative allows tourists to explore and enjoy the authentic rural culture with the cooperation of natives without disturbing their natural lifestyle. Tourists to this island village have chances to explore rural work styles, a specialised local paddy cultivation, canoeing in a country boat in a maze of mangrove forests or enjoying fishing or partying in rural style with locals. In order to maintain best eco-protection practices, several restrictions are placed on the use of plastics, smoking or even carrying soft drinks. }} * {{see | name=Pallipuram Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address=Pallipuram, Vypin Island | lat=10.170087 | long=76.18098 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Pallipuram Fort | image=Ayakotta.jpg | wikidata=Q3595357 | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=The oldest existing European fortification in India. Built by the Portuguese in 1503, it was later handed over to the Travancore Army to become a major army base till 1903, when it was converted into a heritage museum. It has a small museum and good views of the lagoon on one side and the sea on the other. }} * {{see | name=Peirce Leslie Bungalow | alt= | url= | email= | address=Beach Road, Fort Kochi | lat=9.971 | long=76.238 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-25 | content=The only surviving bungalow built in authentic Portuguese style, it was the home and office of a famous English merchant family - the Leslies. It has been restored into a boutique hotel. The hotel management allows tourists to explore the grand exteriors and public interior spaces. }} * {{see | name=Princess Street | alt=Loafer’s Corner | url= | email= | address=Fort Kochi | lat=9.9668 | long=76.2428 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-25 | content=The most famous street of Fort Kochi, which gives you a slice of authentic colonial European architecture. The only street that never faced any raid or demolitions in past, Princess street is a perfect destination for an evening walk with numerous western-style cafes, souvenir shops, art galleries and heritage complexes. }} * {{see | name=VOC Gate | alt= | url= | email= | address=Fort Kochi | lat=9.965129 | long=76.240976 | directions=opposite the Parade grounds | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=The only remains of the office of the Dutch East India Company is this large wooden gate with a monogram VOC (Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie), the emblem of Dutch East India Company. }} * {{see | name=Willingdon Island | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=9.95 | long=76.275 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3077892 | lastedit=2023-11-14 | content=A large man-made island made from sand dredged from the backwaters to deepen the Kochi Port. Named after Long Willingdon, the then-Viceroy of India, it houses the Kochi Port, the Indian Southern Naval Command Headquarters and many five-star hotels. }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Indian Naval Maritime Museum | alt= | url=https://www.keralatourism.org/destination/maritime-museum/73 | email= | address=KJ Herschel Rd, Fort Kochi | lat=9.957354 | long=76.238136 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-F 9:30AM-1:30PM, 2:30-5:30PM; Sa Su 9:30AM-1:30PM, 2:30-8PM | price=₹200 for foreign adults, ₹50 for Indians | lastedit=2023-01-25 | content=Built by the Indian Navy, the museum has many life-size exhibits, a huge display of naval arms and ammunition, replicas of large naval ships and personalities. One section inside a military bunker unravels India's shipbuilding prowess, which took its culture to the shores of Java, Sumatra and Bali between 4 BC and 11 AD. The section outdoors takes you through the Indian Navy's moments post 1947. These include the commissions of various types of ships, submarines or aircraft carriers, as well as superficial details of Junaghad operation, Goa liberation, Indo-Pak conflicts of 1965 and 1971 and strategic manoeuvres during the Kargil war. When you visit, bear in mind that India is one of the top ten naval powers in the world. }} * {{see | name=Indo-Portuguese Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Fort Kochi | lat=9.962881 | long=76.240053 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Indo-Portuguese Museum | wikidata=Q6025543 | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=It highlights the start of European colonisation of the Orient in the 16th century. The museum showcases the growth and decline of Portuguese life in Kochi with a focus on the growth of the Latin Church. There are also excavated ruins of the former fort wall in the basement of the museum. }} * {{see | name=Kashi Art Gallery | alt= | url=http://www.kashiartgallery.com/ | email=mail@kashiartgallery.com | address=Burgar St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi | lat=9.9669 | long=76.2433 | directions= | phone=+91 484 221 5769 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=8:30AM-7:30PM | price= | lastedit=2017-06-17 | content=is both an art gallery and a cafe that serves light breakfasts and lunches. The gallery exhibits work by popular contemporary Indian artists. }} ===Places of worship=== ====Churches and synagogues==== [[File:Jewish synagouge kochi india.jpg|thumb|The interior of the famous Jewish Synagogue in Jew Town]] [[File:StFrancisCochin.jpg|upright|thumb|St. Francis Church, Kochi]] * {{see | name=Holy Koonan Cross Church | alt=Pradhankuriyacha Palli | url= | email= | address=Bazaar Rd. Mattancherry | lat=10.03122 | long=76.23614 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24/7 | price=Free |lastedit=2017-06-17| content=Historic church where native Christians had once received the Bishop of Persia and declared their affinities to the Orthodox Eastern Church. Here, Malayalee Christians in the 17th century revolted against Portuguese Jesuit missionaries' attempts to convert them to the Latin church. This was the first recorded revolt against Europeans in India, forcing the Pope to recognise native Christians and establish a new church, the Syro-Malabar Church. }} * {{see | name=Jew Street and Paradesi Synagogue | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jew Town, Mattancherry | lat=9.957222 | long=76.259444 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Synagogue Su-F 10AM-5PM, F afternoon and Sa only open to Jews | price=₹10 | wikidata=Q3495970 | lastedit=2023-01-25 | content=The synagogue was constructed in 1568 after allowing Jewish refugees from Jerusalem to settle here during the Crusades, making this the Commonwealth's oldest synagogue. This is one of the very few functioning synagogues in India, and the structure is unique due to the influence of native Hindu-Christian architecture, as well as being the only synagogue having two bimahs. Many Jews lived in the area until the creation of Israel; today, there is only a handful. Jew Street is a heritage zone with several antique/handicraft shops. }} * {{see | name=St. Francis CSI Church | alt=CSI Pally | url= | email= | address=Church Rd, Fort Kochi | lat=9.96601 | long=76.24085 | directions=Near to Fort Kochi Beach | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily 7AM-5:30PM | price=Free | content=Constructed by the Portuguese in 1503, and the burial place of Vasco da Gama (his remains were later transferred to Lisbon). His tombstone can be seen inside the church. The church has a large cemetery which serves as the resting grounds of many Portuguese army officials and soldiers. The church is the only Catholic Church not demolished by the Dutch, which was handed over to the British to re-establish an Anglican church. A large war memorial is at the back and honours the unknown soldiers who died in World War I. }} * {{see | name=Santa Cruz Basilica | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cathedral Grounds, Fort Kochi | lat=9.9649 | long=76.2429 | directions=opposite Children's Park | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Daily 7AM-5:30PM | price=Free | lastedit=2023-01-25 | content=The first European church built in Asia, by the Portuguese in 1502, also the first Cathedral of Asia and the seat of the second Catholic Diocese in India. The British modified the structure and added oil paintings. Today, it serves as the primary seat of the Latin church of Kerala. Pope John Paul II declared it a basilica in 1984. It houses several historical paintings, decorations and artefacts. }} ====Mosques==== * {{see | name=Chembittapally Mosque | alt= | url= | email= | address=Fort Kochi | lat=9.9488 | long=76.2594 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Chempittapally | wikidata=Q5090642 | content=Famous for its large super-imposing structure having large shining copper domes (thus the name, which means ''Mosque having Copper Roofs''). The compound has 3 gates; one in west which opens way to Panayapilly, second in south which opens way to Goldenmukku and Kochangadi, and the main gate in the eastern side of compound, which opens way to Angadi, which in turn leads the way to Jew Street and Mattancherry Bazaar towards the north and to Chullickal towards south. }} ====Temples==== [[File:Kerala jain temple.jpg|thumb|Jain Mandir, Mattancherry]] * {{see | name=Dharmanath Desar Jain Mandir | alt= | url= | email= | address=5/688 Gujarathi St, Mattancherry | lat=9.9617 | long=76.2545 | directions= | phone=+91 484 222 4802 | tollfree= | hours=visits only from 11AM to 12:30PM | price= | lastedit=2023-01-25 | content=Popularly known as the Gujarati Mandir, it is one of the oldest Jain temples in India, established by the Gujarati community who settled here more than 300 years ago. This is a major Theerth (pilgrimage) for Jains and all major North Indian festivals are celebrated grandly. Pigeon feeding during noon is one of the main rituals here. }} * {{see | name=Thirumala Devaswom Temple | alt= | url=http://www.gosripuram.org/ | email= | address=Mattancherry | lat=9.9563 | long=76.2503 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | wikipedia=Cochin Thirumala Devaswom | image=CTD East RajaGopuram.jpg | wikidata=Q24944046 | content=Built by the Gowda Sarawatha Brahmins with Lord Venkateswara as the main deity. It is famous for housing the second-largest brass bell in Asia. The North Gopuram is fully roofed with copper. }} ==Do== ===Beaches=== [[File:Fort Kochi Beach Sunset 2.jpg|thumb|Fort Kochi Beach Sunset]] * {{do | name=Cherai Beach |alt=| url= | email= | address=North of Vypin Island | lat=10.14160 | long=76.17828 | directions=Take Route-3 bus from High Court stand | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2017-06-17| content=Gold beaches with big sand grains, coconut palm corridors, backwaters and historical monuments. Cherai Beach surpasses all with its swimming facilities and coconut groves. Occasional sights of dolphins are also an added attraction. This is one of the safest beaches for swimming, watersports and beach games. A very large, beautiful backwater is 250 m from the beach and is famous for its scenic beauty and boating. The best way to reach Cherai is a ferry from Fort Kochi to Vypin Island and then a local bus (₹12) to Cherai Junction. From there, take an auto-rickshaw (₹20) to the beach. An alternative is taking the auto-rickshaw from the ferry for about ₹100. There are also buses from [[Kochi/Ernakulam|Ernakulam]] to Cherai Junction. }} * {{do | name=Fort Kochi Beach | url= | email= | address=Fort Kochi | lat=9.96369 | long=76.23750 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A historical beach where 1st Portuguese-Dutch war broke out in the 17th century. Once a very large beach, it has reduced to a quarter in size after the 2004 tsunami. A beautiful, small walkway is ideal for evening strolls. One can find remnants of the Old Portuguese Immanuel Fort, along with parts of the Dutch Stormberg Fort, with some cannons still kept intact. An obsolete boiler that was once used for powering cranes of old port and a very large anchor of an old Portuguese ship are displayed on the walkway. Works for creating a new artificial beach are undergoing near this old beach with the help of the Tsunami development funds. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Mattancherry Old Spice Market | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jewtown | lat=9.956279412448717 | long=76.26054147200371 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2023-11-14 | content=One of the oldest spice markets in the country. There are nearly half dozen small markets, mostly run by Gujarati and Konkanis where you can slice of Indian market flavours. }} ===Antiques/art works=== * {{buy | name=Cochin Crafts Antique Shop | url= | email= | address=Jewtown | lat= | long= | directions=walk down from the synagogue | phone=+91 484 2221927 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Good collection of crafts and antique shops. }} * {{buy | name=Crafters Exports |alt=| url= | email= | address=Jewtown | directions=walk down from the synagogue | lat=9.957648297075592 | long=76.26019742101064 | phone=+91 484 2227652 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2017-06-17| content=This shop has certified large collection of artifacts and heritage pieces. Its a very popular option. }} * {{buy | name=Isidore Art Palace | url= | email=isidore@vsnl.com | address=Jewtown | lat= | long= | directions=next to the Synagogue | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Will reliably ship stuff outside India. Bargain hard. }} * {{buy | name=Yousuf Art Gallery | alt=Galleria Synagogue Art Gallery | url=http://www.galleriasynagogue.com/ | email=info@galleriasynagogue.com | address=776 Jew Town | lat=9.9547 | long=76.2604 | directions=walk down the street from the synagogue | phone=+91 9847478882 or +91 484 222 1330 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-27 | content=Showcases art work from many different local artists. Prices are reasonable, and they very often have exhibitions showing some amazing art work from the region. They feature art works and exhibitions by professional artists as well as talented emerging artists from South India. }} ==Eat== * {{listing |type=eat |name=Kayees Rahamatulla Cafe |address=Mattanchery |lat=9.9627414 |long=76.2547452 }} * {{eat | name=Sree Krishna Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gujarathi St, Mattancherry | lat=9.9578435 | long= 76.2548315 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Gujarati restaurant famous for its cutlets and battoora, and vegetarian curries. }} *{{eat | name=Fort House Restaurant and Hotel | url=http://www.hotelforthouse.com | email= | address=2/6A Calvathy Rd | lat=9.9688570 | long=76.2498337 | directions=next to Coast Guard | phone=+91 484 221-7103 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=At the waterfront, offering good Kerala food and great views. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Shala | url= | email= | address=1/605 Peter Celli St, Fort Kochi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 484 221-6036 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Started by the same people who run the Kashi Art Cafe, Shala serves delicious Keralan food. The menu which changes daily. The owner, Anoop, hires local housewives to cook their local specialties. The restaurant is in a beautiful and tastefully restored historical building. }} *{{eat | name=Thai BBQ House | url= | email= | address=Kunnumpuram Road, Njaliparambu Junction, Fort Kochi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Thai cuisine, with grilled squid tempuras and coconut prawns. }} *{{eat | name=Upstairs Italian | url= | email= | address=K.B. Jacob Rd, Fort Kochi | lat= | long= | directions=opposite Santa Cruz Basilica | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by an Italian family, classic traditional Italian cuisines. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Lily Grace Seafood Restaurant | alt= | url=http://www.hotelkillians.com/seafood.php | email=relax@hotelkillians.com | address=Post box 22, River Rd., Fort Kochi | lat= | long= | directions=near Hotel Killians - Fort Kochi Vypeen Ferry Terminal | phone=+91 484 221-7245 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-11PM | price= | content=Freshly caught seafood from Kerala. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=XL Fishnet Bar | url= | email= | address=Rose St, Fort Cochin | lat=9.9670 | long=76.2419 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=until about 10:30PM | price= | content=The bar fills up each day with tourists looking for a beer in Fort Cochin. There is nothing cosy about the place and the staff are quite lazy. It can be a nice spot to meet other travellers, since everyone has one thing in common: drinking beer. There is a busy restaurant downstairs that also serves beer (more pricey) and may be preferred by solo women. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹750|₹750–3,000|Over ₹3,000}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Casa Linda Ballard | url= | email= | address=St.Paul's St | lat= | long= | directions=Near St.Paul's School | phone=+91 484 221 6888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Budget | checkin= | checkout= | content=A well-maintained hotel in typical European style. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Fort Avenue | url= | email= | address=Bazaar St | lat= | long= | directions=Near old Bazaar | phone=+91 484 222-6103 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Budget | checkin= | checkout= | content=A well-maintained hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel White Rose | url= | email= | address=Fort Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 484 323-6004 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A newer hotel, which is clean and good-looking. Ideal for families }} *{{sleep | name=Vintage Inn | alt= | url=http://www.vintageresorts.in | email= | address=Rids Dale Branch Road, Njaliparambu Jn., | lat= | long= | directions=near K.B. Jacob Rd, traffic circle | phone=+91 484 221 5064 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Clean, comfortable ensuite rooms, fan or A/C, free WiFi in the lobby, 5 min walk from historic centre. }} ===Mid-range=== *{{sleep | name=Cherai Beach Resort | alt= | url=http://www.cheraibeachresorts.com/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=This is the most upmarket place with rooms starting at ₹2500. The place is a set of bungalows set around inlets from the lagoon. There are quite a few insects around (a man comes around to fumigate the rooms at sunset). The place tries to be an upmarket resort but the rooms are a little too basic for that. The management of the place is also very poor. }} * {{sleep | name=Ballard Bungalow | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Near Fort Kochi Junker Jetty | phone=+91 484 221-5854 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Moderate | checkin= | checkout= | content=A heritage colonial bungalow, which still maintains the colonial charms and recreates an atmosphere of the British Raj. }} * {{sleep | name=Gama Heritage Residency | url= | email= | address=Napier St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 484 221-7475 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A typical Portuguese bungalow, which housed the Portuguese army until its defeat by Dutch forces. Today it is a stylish heritage hotel, famous for its hospitality. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Brunton Boatyard | alt= | url=https://www.cghearth.com/brunton-boatyard | email= | address=Fort Kochi Jetty, Beach Rd | lat=9.968553 | long=76.24556 | directions=Near Bus stand | phone=+91 484 2215461 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout= | price=₹3,000-14,000 | wikidata=Q111401835 | lastedit=2023-11-14 | content=A heritage bungalow, once built as Dutch Governor's Palace, later owned by the Brunton brothers boatbuilders. Today is a premium property of CGH group. It has huge Dutch styled gardens, Kerala-Dutch style interiors, large cannons and good restaurants. }} * {{sleep | name=Casino Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.cghearth.com | email=casinohotel@cghearth.com | address=Willingdon Island | lat=9.961993 | long=76.269568 | directions=near Kochi Port Trust Complex | phone=+91 484 2668421, +91 484 2668001 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹9,000-20,000 | wikidata=Q111401836 | lastedit=2023-11-14 | content=The first property of CGH established in 1957, it's an iconic hotel famous for its seafood restaurants and themed room, all overlooking Cochin Harbour. }} * {{sleep | name=Killians Boutique Hotel | url=http://www.hotelkillians.com | email=relax@hotelkillians.com | address=River Rd | lat=9.967973 | long=76.245393 | directions=Near harbour | phone=+91 484 2217245 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2016-12-04 | content=A very well maintained and modern hotel in the heart of Fort Cochin (water treatment plants, attuned to the German Standards). }} * {{sleep | name=Koder House | alt= | url=http://www.koderhouse.com/ | email= | address=Tower Rd | lat=9.967056 | long=76.242642 | directions=Near Fort Kochi Beach, Opposite Beach Park | phone=+91 484 2218485 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout= | price=₹2,000-10,000 | lastedit=2016-12-04 | content=Once home to an affluent Jewish couple, today this is a large Jewish theme hotel. It has a good restaurant which serves authentic Kosher certified food and a very large indoor pool. }} * {{sleep | name=Le Maritime | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=9.982471 | long=76.241443 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111861009 | lastedit=2023-11-14 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Old Lighthouse Bristow Hotel | url=http://www.oldlighthousehotel.com/olbh/ | email= | address=Opposite Fort Kochi, Beach Rd | lat=9.962879 | long=76.237503 | directions=next to INS Dronarchary of Indian Navy | phone=+91 484 3050102 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | lastedit=2016-12-04 | content=This heritage property was once the residence of Sir Robert Bristow - the architect and father of modern Kochi Port. It has opulent interiors in a traditional English style and a good antique collection, along with large pools, a garden and host of other facilities. }} * {{sleep | name=Ramada Resort Kochi | url=http://www.ramadacochin.com | email=reservations@ramadacochin.com | address=Kumbalam South End | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 484 3011100 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹3,000-10,000 per night | checkin=24 hr | checkout= | content= The resort is famous for a vast maze network of pools that merges into backwaters overlooked by the balconies of well appointed cottage suites. The resort is equally famous for its pool parties, dance floors, lounge bars and sprawling gardens. }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Malabar Resort & Spa | alt= | url=http://www.tajhotels.com | email= | address= | lat=9.968844 | long=76.25865 | directions=Near Kochi Port Trust Complex | phone=+91 484 6643000, +91 484 2666811 | tollfree= | checkin=24 hr | checkout= | price=₹9,000-31,000 | wikidata=Q111401834 | lastedit=2023-11-14 | content=On the tip of Willingdon Island. Its heritage wing was built in 1935 to accommodate the visiting Princess of Wales (Elizabeth II), and later to accommodate senior officials of the Royal Navy. It is full of Victorian design & decor and was a Crown Property until its handover to the Taj Group in 1954. The tower wing is more modern. The Infinity Pool is one of the oldest swimming pools famous for its beauty. }} * {{sleep | name=Trident Cochin | alt= | url=http://www.tridenthotels.com/ | email= | address= | lat=9.95971 | long=76.26859 | directions=Near Kochi Port Trust Complex | phone=+91 484 3081000, +91 484 3081002 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹9,000-20,000 | wikidata=Q111401839 | lastedit=2023-11-14 | content=Near to Ernakulam Port Wharf, this premium property has 69 luxury rooms and 10 premium suites along with several world cuisines restaurants and a world-class spa. }} ===Homestays=== * {{sleep | name=Daniels Homestay | url=http://daniels.com.co.in/ | email=danielshomestay@yahoo.com | address=Rids Dale Branch Rd | lat= | long= | directions=2 min walk from Santa Cruz Church | phone=+91 98 9557 5181 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹750-1,000 | checkin= | checkout= | content=In one of the silent by-lanes of Fort Kochi very close to the Santa Cruz Basilica. Friendly, clean and comfortable. }} * {{sleep | name=Dream Catcher Home Stay | url= | email=dreamcatcheronita@vsnl.net | address=Vasavan Lane | lat= | long= | directions=Near Thamaraparambu School | phone=+91 484 221-7550, +91 97 4601 7881 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹600-1,200 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Home-cooked food, clean rooms, but host quite unpleasant. Free pick-ups from bus and railway station. }} * {{sleep | name= | url= | email=sanoobsanu@yahoo.in | address=1/1375 A KB Jacob Rd, Njaliparambu Junction | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 96 5643 0583 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹400-800 | checkin=1PM | checkout=11AM | content=Clean with comfortable beds. The owner and his family are very friendly and helpful. Free internet, help with arranging trips inside and outside of town. }} * {{sleep | name=Green House Home Stay | url= | email=greenhousehomestay@yahoo.com | address=Kunnumpuram Road, Njaliparambu | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 98 9526 2296 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=High season doubles are around ₹1,000 non A/C or ₹1,500 A/C, ₹300-600 during the low season, extra charge for A/C rooms | checkin= | checkout= | content=Friendly home stay in a good location close to Princess St. TV and a fridge are provided in the communal living room as well Internet. }} *{{sleep | name=Leelu Home | url=http://leeluhomestay.com | email= | address=Cheerans Ebenezer, behind Fort Kochi Post Office, Quirose St | lat= | long= | directions=2-min walk from the famous Santa Cruz Basilica | phone=+91 484 221-5377 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content=A renovated Victorian building in the heart of Fort Kochi. Cooking classes are conducted in the kitchen daily from 11AM-1PM and from 6PM-8PM. }} *{{sleep | name=Maison Casero Home Stay | url=http://maisoncaserohomestay.com/ | email= | address=Near Santa Cruz Basilica Church, Fosse Road, Kottavalappu, Fort Cochin | lat= | long= | directions=45 km from the Cochin International Airport, 18 km from the Ernakulam Junction railway station, 150 m from the Fort Cochin bus stand | phone=+91 484 221-5955, +91 98 4712 5955 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹600-1500 | checkin=11:30AM | checkout=11AM | content=The owner Jaison and his family are very friendly and helpful. }} *{{sleep | name=Padikkal Residency | url=http://www.padikkalresidency.com | email=padikkalresidency@gmail.com | address=Njaliparambu Junction | lat= | long= | directions=50 m from Santa Cruz Basilicum | phone=+91 98 9542 3033 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | checkin=1PM | checkout=11AM | price= | content=Free Wi-Fi, private rooms with ensuite bathroom. Common balcony. Traditional style homestay with helpful staff. Approved by the Department of Tourism Development. Close to the main Fort Kochi area, but in a quiet enough location to be away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist traps. }} * {{sleep | name=Prem's Homestay | url=http://www.premshomestay.com/ | email=premshomestay@gmail.com | address=Njaliparambu Junction | lat= | long= | directions=Close to the Santa Cruz Basilica | phone=+91 484 221-5269, +91 98 4715 8166 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹600-1,000 | checkin= | checkout= | content=Clean, homey atmosphere, welcoming hosts. Home-cooked food on order. Close to major tourist attractions. Will organise trips inside and out of town if you wish. }} *{{sleep | name=Riverside Heritage Homestay | url=http://www.riversideheritage.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 93 8879 4279 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | checkin= | checkout= | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Rak Villa | alt= | url=http://rakvilla.in |email=info@rakvilla.in | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near Edavanakad Juma Masjid | phone=+91 96 0595 1111 (mobile) | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=11AM | price= | lastedit=2017-10-12 | content=Rak Villa is a four-bedroom villa mostly suitable for family. Alcohol is prohibited here. Most preferable for Arabians. }} *{{sleep | name=San Mike Tours Homestay | url= | email= | address=No. 1/957, Directly opposite Santa Cruz Basilica | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 484 221-5385, +91 484 657-1203 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500 per person or less if there is more than one of you | checkin= | checkout= | content=Friendly homestay run by two brothers Victor and Martin. They can organise anything from a ₹500 backwater cruise in Allepey to a day riding an old Enfield motorcycle down the Malabar coast. }} ==Stay healthy== * {{listing | name=Cochin Port Hospital | url= | email= | address=Willingdon Island | lat=9.9610 | long=76.2692 | directions= | phone=+91 484 266-6403 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24/7 | price= | content=General medicine and has a large in-patient ward. Near to Kochi Port area, its regularly used by sailors. All certifications required for mariners and sailors are available from this hospital. }} * {{listing | name=Gautham hospital | url= | email= | address=at Panayapilly, near Fort Kochi and Mattanchery | lat=9.9471 | long=76.2561 | directions= | phone=+91 484 221-0510, +91 484 221-0510, +91 484 404-3457 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=24/7 | price= | content=A major multi-speciality hospital in West Kochi. 24-hr casualty, accident and trauma unit, ambulance services and an ICU and other state of the art medical care. }} ===24-hour pharmacies=== {{anchor|24 hour pharmacies}} * {{listing | name=Gautham Pharmacy | alt= | url= | email= | address=Panayapally | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 484 221-0514, +91 484 309-6020 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikipedia= | wikidata= | lastedit= | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Kochi}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo|9.94501|76.25134|zoom=15}} 7xgfvxnbrax85rxnd7mia1uhdvp2c9v 0 202684 5090940 4874333 2025-07-10T16:10:54Z R. Henrik Nilsson 2273145 possiblity > possibility 5090940 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Apoala banner.png|pgname=Santiago Apoala}} '''Santiago Apoala''' (sometimes called simply ''Apoala'') is a town 2 hours north of [[Oaxaca (city)|Oaxaca city]] in [[Oaxaca (state)]]. The town is mostly visited over the weekend from people from Oaxaca and is still under the radar for international tourists. The stunning waterfall and view of the canyon are the main attractions. ==Understand== The village its 200 inhabitants are situated on both side of a nameless river. The word Apoala means “breaking water,” referring to the gorgeous waterfalls surrounding the small town. When arriving in town you'll be stopped at the tourist office where you'll be asked to pay a fee of M$100 to see the 3 differents sights (or M$50 per sight). This price includes a guide that is usually a teenager guiding you to the paths to the sights. You can do the 3 paths in one day if you arrive in the morning. Finishing with the waterfall will allow you to go a swim at warmest part of the day. As this is a long drive from Oaxaca it recommended to stay the night in town and enjoy a dinner there. ==Get in== ===By car=== Getting by car is the easiest way as there is no direct public transport to the town. You have to drive to Nochixtlán and follow the signs for Apoala. The road is paved the all way. ===By public transport=== ====From Oaxaca==== You can take a collectivo from the center (Galeana 222) to Asunción Nochixtlán. Combis vans are leaving every half hour during the day. M$70 (Dec 2023). From Nochixtlán you must take another collectivo to Apoala. M$100 (Dec 2023). ====From Mexico city==== You can take a bus going towards Oaxaca and get off at Asunción Nochixtlán and then change for the collectivo to Apoala. ==Get around== {{mapframe|zoom=14|layer=W}} The town is very small and can be explored by foot. ==See== All of the sights will be visited if you book the "3 rutas" at the tourist office. The guides are mostly teenagers and some have not much interest in telling you much. However they will show you the paths and answer some of your questions. [[File:Apoala.png|thumb|Apoala Waterfall]] * {{see | name = Apoala Waterfall | lat =17.653159 | long = -97.1336 | price = M$50 | lastedit =2023-12-15 | content = The main attraction of the town. This beautiful waterfall drops in clear blue pool where you have the possibility to swim in the cold water. }} * {{see | name = Canyon and cave | alt = Gruta Yavi Ko o Maa | lat = 17.646939 | long =-97.143759 | price = M$50 guided | lastedit =2023-12-15 | content = Path to the left leads to a cave (guide will provide a flashligt) The path to the rights leads the canyon witj beautiful view. }} ==Do== If you still have time with your day you can chill at the camping area (in front of the cabañas). Beautiful view of the surrounding and peaceful river passing by. ==Buy== There is no ATM in town. There is a shop selling a few basic products but you better bring things with you if you need something more specific ==Eat== You will find 2 restaurants near the cabañas and 2 in town. They will serve classic and delicious Mexican and Oaxaca cuisine. ==Drink== Restaurants offer the classic range of drinks and hot chocolate will be appreciated as it gets cold in the evening. ==Sleep== There is only 2 places offering accommodation in Santiago Apoala. The hotel located next the tourist office and the community owned cabañas. Booking is not required unless you travelling during busy holidays. Possibly of camping at the cabaña place. *{{sleep | name=La Casa de mi Abuelita | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=17.651047 | long=-97.137838 | directions=across the road from the tourist office. | phone=+52 951 636 7425 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=M$400 for a double room | lastedit=2023-12-15 | content=Basic room with shared bathroom. Has no heater. }} *{{sleep | name = Cabañas | lat =17.646914 | long =-97.14391 | | phone = +52 951 236 8602 | price = M$600/M$700 room without/with fireplace | lastedit= 2023-12-15 | content = Community owned cabañas. Cosy place next to the river and the entrance of the canyon. }} ==Connect== ==Go next== You could stop on the way back exploring Asunción Nochixtlán before heading south to[[Oaxaca (city)|Oaxaca city]] or north towards [[Puebla]] and [[Mexico City|Mexico city]] {{IsPartOf|Oaxaca (state)}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|17.65|-97.133333|zoom=15}} l1wka9py68qc2b857xatm058xz0tcje 0 202918 5091206 5083014 2025-07-11T05:48:06Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Go next */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091206 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} [[File:I-90.svg|100px|frameless|right]] '''Interstate 90''' (I-90) is a [[United States]] interstate highway that starts in [[Seattle|Seattle, Washington]] and runs {{mile|3021}} east through the states of [[Washington]], [[Idaho]], [[Montana]], [[Wyoming]], [[South Dakota]], [[Southern_Minnesota|Minnesota]], [[Wisconsin]], [[Northern Illinois|Illinois]], [[Indiana]], [[Ohio]], [[Pennsylvania]], [[New_York_(state)|New York]] and [[Massachusetts]] in the East Coast in [[Boston]]. It serves as an important northern tier transcontinental highway across the Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains, Great Plains, the Midwest and the northeastern U.S. connecting the major cities of [[Seattle]], [[Spokane]], [[Coeur d'Alene|Coeur d’Alene]], [[Missoula]], [[Billings]], [[Sheridan]], [[Gillette]], [[Sioux Falls]], [[Albert Lea]], [[La Crosse]], [[Tomah]], [[Madison|Madison, Wisconsin]]; [[Rockford|Rockford,]] [[Elgin (Illinois)|Elgin]], [[Chicago]], [[Sandusky]], [[Cleveland]], [[Erie]], [[Buffalo]], [[Rochester_(New York)|Rochester]], [[Syracuse_(New York)|Syracuse]], [[Albany_(New York)|Albany]], [[Worcester (Massachusetts)|Worcester]] and [[Boston]]; and the four state capitals of South Dakota ([[Pierre]]); Wisconsin ([[Madison]]), New York ([[Albany_(New York)|Albany]]), and Massachusetts ([[Boston]]). It is the longest transcontinental interstate highway across the United States. ==Understand== Intestate 90 replaces US Hwy 10 from Seattle to Billings; follows US 87 between Billings and Buffalo, Wyoming; replaces US 14 & 16 between Buffalo and Tomah, Wisconsin; bypasses US 12 between Tomah and Portage; parallels US 51 from Portage to Rockford, Illinois. From South Beloit, Illinois to Boston, I-90 follows a series of toll highways (turnpikes) across the eastern half of the route. Namely along The Jane Addams Memorial Tollway (formerly Northwest Tollway), Chicago Skyway, Indiana Toll Road, Ohio Turnpike, New York State Thruway, and Massachusetts Turnpike which all predate the interstate highway system except in Pennsylvania where I-90 remains toll-free. I-90 is paired with I-80 on the Indiana Toll Road and the Ohio Turnpike between Chicago and Cleveland. US Hwy 20 (which still exists) predates and parallels the toll highways between Rockford, Illinois and Boston, Massachusetts through the same cities and towns as I-90. I-90 and 94 in Wisconsin and west of Wisconsin remain toll-free. Interstate 94 (I-94) branches from I-90 (exit 494) in Billings, Montana as a northern branch of I-90. It continues east, {{mile|1555}}, across Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan to its eastern terminus at the Canadian border in [[Port Huron|Port Huron, Michigan]]. It intersects I-90 in Billings, Montana; Tomah, Wisconsin; Madison, Wisconsin; Chicago, Illinois; and Lake Station, Indiana. I-94 runs concurrent with I-90 between Tomah and Madison, Wisconsin and in Chicago. It connects Billings, Bismarck, Fargo, Minneapolis–Saint Paul, Madison, Milwaukee, Chicago, Lake Station, and Detroit. ==Prepare== {{see also|Driving in the United States}} {{see also|Winter driving}} When on the road, most of the journey is straightforward freeway driving. If it is winter, it is wise to check the weather and traffic conditions east of the Cascades (in Washington), through the Rocky Mountains and across the Great Plains and the Midwest. Between the Cascades and New York State. Snowy conditions are not uncommon, and officials usually close the road if things become too dangerous at any point along the highway, at varying distances. In some areas the road may be dry and passable while in other areas the road may be closed due to blizzard like weather. Parallel US, state or local highways may or may not be passable during the winters as not all are plowed and maintained during the winter. Make sure your vehicle is equipped with tires capable of treading on ice (or studded), equipped with chains, filled with appropriate anti-freeze for a lower freezing point, and equipped with a battery that will have no problems starting the car in freezing temperatures. Also make sure the vehicle has a full tank of gas before leaving a city, town or from last night's accommodations as services may be further apart. Charging stations for electric vehicles are fewer and far in between in remote rural areas. ==Get in== Interstate 90 begins/ends at its junction with 4th Ave S, South of [[Seattle/Downtown|Downtown Seattle]] ([[Seattle/Sodo-Georgetown|SODO]]) at T-Mobile Park (stadium for the Seattle Mariners) & Lumen Field (home of the Seattle Seahawks) in its western terminus. In the eastern terminus it begins/ends at its intersection with MA-1A at [[Boston Logan International Airport]]. The road then continues north of Logan Airport, the next {{mile|5}}, as MA-A1 which curves west as MA-60 and ends at its intersection with US-1 in [[Revere]]. I-90 intersects other major US interstate highways ([[Interstate 5#Seattle|Interstates 5]], 82, 15, 94, 25, 29, 35, 39, 41, 55, 57, 69, 75, 80, 86, 87, 84, 95, and 93); various three digit interstates (serving as local auxiliary highways); state highways, U.S highways and local roads in the 13 states where travelers can enter and leave I-90. ==Go== {{mapframe}} ===By plane=== {{see also|Air travel in the United States}} The Interstate 90 corridor can be accessed by plane through [[Spokane#By plane|Spokane]], [[Missoula#By plane|Missoula]], [[Billings#By plane|Billings]], [[Sioux Falls#By plane|Sioux Falls]], [[Rochester (Minnesota)#By plane|Rochester, MN]]; [[Madison#By plane|Madison]], [[Rockford#By plane|Rockford, IL]]; [[Chicago O'Hare International Airport|Chicago O'Hare]], [[South Bend#By plane|South Bend]]; [[Erie#By plane|Erie]]; [[Buffalo#By plane|Buffalo]], [[Rochester_(New York)#By plane|Rochesters, NY]]; [[Syracuse_(New York)#By plane|Syracuse]], [[Springfield_(Massachusetts)#By plane|Springfield, MA]]; and [[Logan International Airport#By plane|Boston Logan (at eastern terminus of I-90)]] with airports next to or near the freeway. In other cities, such as [[Seattle Tacoma International Airport|Seattle]], [[Minneapolis–Saint_Paul_International_Airport|Minneapolis-St Paul]], [[Chicago/Southwest_Side#By plane|Chicago Midway]], [[Milwaukee#By plane|Milwaukee Mitchell Airport]], [[Cleveland#By plane|Cleveland Hopkins]] and in [[Albany_(New York)#By plane|Albany]], the airport is further away (10-120 mi/16-192 km) from the I-90 corridor on another highway. ===By train=== {{see also|Rail travel in the United States}} ===By bus=== {{see also|Long-distance bus travel in the United States}} * {{go | name=Greyhound Lines/Flixbus | alt= | url=https://www.greyhound.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree=+1-800-231-2222 | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-06-28 | content=Greyhound does ''not'' travel the entire length of I-90. Their routes are segmented between {{ili|[[Seattle#By bus|Seattle]]-[[Spokane#By bus|Spokane]]}}{{ili|[[Minneapolis#By bus|Minneapolis]]-[[Saint_Paul#By bus|St Paul]]-Wisonsin Dells-[[Milwaukee#By bus|Milwaukee]]-Chicago. They only travel I-90 between Minneapolis and Wisconsin Dells aen then on I-94 into Chicago via Milwaukee. Some of the schedules between Minneapolis to Chicago are served by Jefferson Lines.}}{{ili|[[Chicago#By bus|Chicago]]-[[Cleveland#By bus|Cleveland]]}}{{ili|Cleveland-[[Buffalo#By bus|Buffalo]]-Syracuse-[[Albany_(New York)#By bus|Albany]]}}{{ili|Albany-[[Springfield_(Massachusetts)#By bus|Springfield, MA]] -[[Boston#By bus|Boston South station]]}}{{pbri}}Travelers booking tickets between Boston and Chicago are typically routed through New York via Pittsburg or via Baltimore to get towards Chicago as services between Albany and Buffalo are limited. Greyhound does not travel the sections of I-90 between Spokane and Minneapolis but rather sell tickets on Jefferson Lines (see below). See their schedules/websites for a list of additional stops between the listed cities. }} * {{go | name=Jefferson Lines| alt= | url=https://www.jeffersonlines.com/| email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-04-10 | content=Travels along I-90 between Spokane, [[Billings#By bus|Billings]], [[Sioux_Falls#By bus|Sioux Falls]], Albert Lea, MN; and into Minneapolis-St Paul from Albert Lea on I-35. }} ==Drive== Mile markers are statewide mileposts, starting with "0" at the western border of each state which increases as you go east and then starts over at "0" when crossing the state line into the next state. So going west the numbers on the mileposts will decrease and then start over at the highest number when crossing a state line. The exit numbers correspond with the mileposts so some numbers may be skipped if the exits are further apart from one to the next. Other exits that are one next to the other or "2 in 1" may have the same exit number followed by an "A", "B" or even a "C" such as "Exit #46A" to get on Oak St, "Exit #46B" to get on US 1 and so forth. ; Washington [[File:WA-10.svg|22px]] [[File:Business_Loop_90.svg|22x22px]] In Washington, I-90 was built over much of US 10 through a series of upgrades to the road. New sections of I-90 were built to bypass Cle Elum, Ellensburg, Moses Lake, Ritzville, Spokane and Spokane Valley with the old US 10 going in through town as Business Loop 90, as a local surface street. The stretch of the old US 10 between Cle Elum (exit 85) and its intersection with US 97 west of Ellensuburg (exit 106) have been renumbered to WA-10 which runs alongside I-90 as a separate road. : Begin/ends at T-Mobile Park on 4th Ave, south of Downtown Seattle (SODO). : [[File:I-5.svg|22x22px]] in {{marker|name=[[Seattle]]|wikidata=Q5083}} N to Vancouver B.C. (via downtown Seattle); S to Portland (via Tacoma & Olympa). : [[File:I-405.svg|22x22px]] in {{marker|name=[[Bellevue]]|wikidata=Q214164}} : [[File:WA-903.svg|22px]] [[File:WA-970.svg|22x22px]] in [[Cle Elum]] (exits 84 & 85) : {{marker|name=[[Ellensburg]]|wikidata=Q868684}} :: [[File:US 97.svg|22x22px]] North to Ellensburg & [[Wenatchee]]. Going south US 97 follows I-90 and then I-82 to Yakima (exit 106). Go east on Dolar Way to get into town from the junction. :: [[File:Business_Loop_90.svg|22x22px]] [[File:WA-10.svg|22px]] BL-90 (Historic US 10, not signed) goes across town (Ellensburg, Kittitas, Vantage) from Us 97 (Jct 106 of I-90) as W Dolarway Rd, E University, and Vantage Hwy, to Hunziker Rd in Vantage at exit 136. Going west the Historic US 10 continues alongside I-90 towards Cle Elum as WA-10 from US 97.<br> :: ''Canyon Road'' (exit 109) goes north into town as Main St. Going south, Canyon Rd winds southward towards Yakima as State Routes (SR) 821 and 823 along Yakima River (old US 97) through the McPherson Canyon. :: [[File:I-82.svg|22x22px]] East [[File:US 97.svg|22x22px]] South to [[Yakima]] ({{mile|36}} from exit 110). This is the western terminus of I-82 which goes through Yakima, Sunnyside, and Tri-Cities. It then follows US 395 south towards I-84 (eastern terminus) in [[Hermiston|Hermiston, Oregon]]. : [[File:WA-26.svg|22px]] in Vantage. From the opposite side of the Columbia River from Vantage, I-90 winds northwards while SR-26 continues east towards Colfax at US 195 via [[Othello]]. : [[File:WA-17.svg|22px]] in [[Moses Lake]] : [[File:US 395.svg|22x22px]] & [[File:WA-261.svg|22px]] in [[Ritzville]] : [[File:WA-23.svg|22px]] Sprague : {{marker|name=[[Spokane]]|wikidata=Q187805}} :: [[File:Business_Loop_90.svg|22x22px]] BL-90 (Historic US 10) goes across town (Spokane & Spokane Valley), from Airway Heights (by airport) as Sunset Blvd, Sprague, and E Appleway Ave, to Barker Rd at exit 293. :: [[File:US 2.svg|22x22px]] [[File:MUTCD I3-5.svg|22x22px]] West to Spokane Airport & Davenport (exit 277 from WB lanes and 277B from EB lanes). It's also the same exit for Airway Heights & Fairchild AFB. US 2 goes concurrently on I-90 between Airway Heights (exit 277) and Division St in downtown (exit 281). :: [[File:US 195.svg|22x22px]] South to Colfax and [[Pullman]] (exit 279) :: [[File:US 2.svg|22x22px]] [[File:US 395.svg|22x22px]] East US 2 to Newport/North US 395 to Colville (exit 281). Both go concurrently north through town as N Division St. ; Idaho : [[File:US 95.svg|22x22px]] in [[Coeur d'Alene]] : [[w:Kellogg, Idaho|Kellogg]] at exits 49-51 ; Montana [[File:MT-2.svg|22x22px]] [[File:Business_Loop_90.svg|22x22px]] In Montana I-90 and 94 are built over much of US 10 through a series of upgrades to the existing road. New sections of I-90 were built to bypass Alberton, Missoula, Deer Lodge, Butte, Bozeman, Livingston, Big Timber, Billings and Harding with the old US 10 going in through town or the city as Business Loop 90, as a local surface street. The stretch of the old US 10 between Butte (exit 127/127A) and Three Forks (exit 278) have been renumbered to MT-2 paired with MT-69, MT-89 and US 287 in some sections through Toll Mountains, Whitehall and Caldwell.<br> [[File:US 87.svg|22x22px]] [[File:MT-sec-451.svg|22x22px]] [[File:I-94.svg|22x22px]] Interstate 94 continues east from its junction with I-90 in Billings (western terminus of I-94) towards the North Dakota state line, over the old US 10 & Yellowstone Trail, through a series of small towns in Yellowstone, Treasure, Rosebud, Custer, Prairie and Wilbaux Counties. From Billings I-90 curves southward alongside the Old US 87 (MT-S451) through Big Horn County into Wyoming. The present US 87 is concurrent on I-90 between Butte and Sheridan, Wyoming. : [[File:MT-135.svg|22x22px]] in St Regis : [[File:US 93.svg|22x22px]] in Wye : [[File:US 93.svg|22x22px]] and [[File:MT-200.svg|22x22px]] in [[Missoula]]. US 93 goes up to Flathead and Kootenai National Forests. Crosses into Canada via Eureka/Grassmere. : [[File:US 12.svg|22x22px]] in Garrison : [[File:I-15.svg|22x22px]] in {{marker|name=[[Butte]]|wikidata=Q166304}} : [[File:US 89.svg|22x22px]] in [[Livingston_(Montana)|Livingston]], the road to Yellowstone NP : [[File:I-94.svg|22x22px]] in [[Billings]] ; Wyoming : [[File:US 14.svg|22x22px]] and [[File:US 87.svg|22x22px]] in [[Sheridan]] : [[File:I-25.svg|22x22px]] in [[Buffalo_(Wyoming)|Buffalo]] : [[File:US 14.svg|22x22px]] and [[File:WY-59.svg|22x22px]] in [[Gillette]] ; South Dakota [[File:US 16.svg|22x22px]] [[File:SD_38.svg|22x22px]] [[File:SD_240.svg|22x22px]] [[File:Business_Loop_90.svg|22x22px]] US 16 goes from the eastern gate of Yellowstone National Park, through Mount Rushmore National Park in the Black Hills National Forest, to its eastern terminus at I-190 in Rapid Falls. US 16 used to connect Yellowstone to Detroit but has been replaced by I-90 and 96. The old US 16 goes alongside I-90 as a two-lane road, as SD-240 between the Badlands Loop (exit 131) and Reliance (exit 248), and as SD-38 between Mitchell and Sioux Falls. In other cities and towns, US-16 has been re-numbered as Business Loop 90, or designated as a local road such as "Highway 1416" between Rapid Falls and Wall. : [[File:US 85.svg|22x22px]] & [[File:US 14A.svg|22x22px]] in [[Spearfish]] : {{marker|name=[[Rapid City]]|wikidata=}} :: [[File:Business_Loop_90.svg|22x22px]] (exit 52) Peaceful Pines Rd in Black Hawk. Business Loop (BL) 90 follows alongside I-90 as the old US 14 into Rapid City on Sturgis Ave which continues in the other direction towards Sturgis without a US or state highway designation. :: [[File:SD_445.svg|22x22px]] Deadwood Ave (exit 55) :: [[File:I-190.svg|22x22px]] to [[File:US 16.svg|22x22px]] (Rushmore Rd) in downtown Rapid City : [[File:US 83.svg|22x22px]] Murdo/White River (exit 192). US 83 continues south from here towards White River while NB traffic goes east on I-90 (concurrent) to exit 212 (Vivian/Pierre). : [[File:US 83.svg|22x22px]] [[File:SD_53.svg|22x22px]] (exit 212) Vivian/Pierre. It's another {{mile|35}} north of I-90, on US 83, to reach [[Pierre]] the capital of South Dakota. : {{marker|name=[[Sioux Falls]]|lat=43.546056|long= -96.731389}} :: [[File:I-29.svg|22x22px]] N to Fargo (exit 396B); S to Sioux City, MN (exit 396A) :: [[File:SD_115.svg|22x22px]] [[File:MUTCD I3-5.svg|22x22px]] Cliff Ave Airport (exit 399) :: [[File:I-229.svg|22x22px]] (exit 400) serves as an auxiliary bypass around town from the east to I-29 south of town. ; Minnesota : [[File:I-35.svg|22x22px]] in [[Albert Lea]] ; Wisconsin : [[File:I-43.svg|22x22px]] in [[Beloit]] ; Illinois [[File:US 20.svg|22x22px]] [[File:US 51.svg|22x22px]] : [[File:Illinois_75.svg|22x22px]] in South Beloit :[[Rockford]] :: [[File:I-39.svg|22x22px]] runs {{mile|104}} concurrently on I-90 to between Rockford, Illinois and Portage, Wisconsin ::: [[File:I-39.svg|22x22px]] [[File:US 51.svg|22x22px]] to [[File:US 20.svg|22x22px]] and [[Bloomington_(Illinois)|Bloomington]] (exit 17). From the WB lanes I-90 curves north into Wisconsin or get off at exit 17 to get on I-39 south. From Portage, I-90 curves east into Chicago while I-39 exits off at #17 to continue towards Bloomington. :: [[File:US 20.svg|22x22px]] : [[File:US 20.svg|22x22px]] in Hampshire :{{marker|name=[[Chicago]]|wikidata=Q1297}} in [[Chicagoland]] (greater Chicago Metropolitan Area) :: [[File:I-290.svg|22x22px]] [[File:Illinois_53.svg|22x22px]] in [[Schaumburg]] :: [[File:I-294.svg|22x22px]] in [[Rosemont]] near Chicago. Follow I-294 North to get towards Wisconsin (exit 77B) and 294 south towards Indiana (exit 77A). I-294 merges with I-94 going north in [[Deerfield_(Illinois)|Deerfield]]. Going south, I-294 merges with I-80 in Hazel Crest in the [[South_Suburbs_(Illinois)|south suburbs]]. It then run concurrent I-80 east to [[Lansing_(Illinois)|Lansing, Il]] where it merges with I-94 going east into Indiana. :: [[File:I-190.svg|22x22px]] [[File:MUTCD I3-5.svg|22x22px]] to [[O'Hare International Airport]] near Chicago :: [[File:I-94.svg|22x22px]] & [[File:I-90.svg|22x22px]] are joined for the next 17 miles (27 km) through [[Chicago/Loop|downtown Chicago]]. Eastbound I-90 merges into I-94 eastbound (south) only. No access to the westbound lanes of I-94 (going towards Wisconsin). :: [[File:I-290.svg|22x22px]] "To Chicago Loop /West Suburbs" in (exit 51-H-I) [[Chicago/Loop|downtown Chicago]]. :: [[File:I-55.svg|22x22px]] "To St Lous/Lakeshore Dr" (exit 53) near [[Chicago/Bridgeport-Chinatown|Chicago's Chinatown]]. :::[[File:Illinois_50.svg|22x22px]] [[File:MUTCD I3-5.svg|22x22px]] Cicero Dr (exit 286 of I-55) to get to Chicago Midway via SB Cicero Dr (IL-50). :: [[File:I-94.svg|22x22px]] & [[File:I-90.svg|22x22px]] [[Chicago/Chatham-South_Shore|South of downtown Chicago]] I-94 (East towards Indiana on the Ryan Expressway) and I-90 (towards Indiana Toll Rd) splits via exit 59C. Westbound lanes of I-90 automatically merge into I-94 past State St (exit 100) going north into downtown Chicago. :: US 12 / US 20 / US 41 near Chicago ; Indiana [[File:Indiana_Toll_Road_jct.svg|25x25px]] [[File:I-80.svg|25x25px]] [[File:I-90.svg|25x25px]] The '''[https://www.indianatollroad.org/ Indiana Toll Road]''' is part of the Interstate Highway System which runs {{mile|156.28}} through Indiana connecting the Chicago Skyway to the Ohio Turnpike. The toll road is signed with I-90 for its entire length, as well as I-80 east of Lake Station, after having run concurrently with I-94. [[File:US 6.svg|25x25px]] [[File:I-80.svg|25x25px]] [[File:I-94.svg|25x25px]] I-94 enters Indiana from Illinois running concurrently with I-80 and US Highway 6 (US 6) on the separate '''Frank Borman Expressway''', in Munster. It goes across to Lake Station where it intersects I-90. From Lake Station, I-94 continues northeast towards Michigan while I-80 goes concurrent on I-90 on the Indiana Toll Road into Ohio. US 6 leaves the Frank Borman Expressway at Exit 15/15A in Lake Station and continues east towards Sandusky, Ohio as a separate road south of the Indiana Toll Road. [[File:US 20.svg|22x22px]] US 20 in Indiana is a main east–west highway that is parallel to the Indiana Toll Road. The western terminus of US 20 is at the Illinois state line and the eastern terminus is at the Ohio state line. US 20 through Whiting, East Chicago, and Gary is concurrent with US 12 twice. It passes through the cities and towns in northwestern Indiana as one way, two lane, and four lane surface streets. : US 41 in Hammond : US 12 in Gary : I-65 / US 12 / US 20 in Gary : I-94 / US 6 in Lake Station : I-80 in Lake Station; joined for 278 miles (447 km) until Elyria, Ohio : US 421 in New Durham Township : US 31 in South Bend : US 131 in York Township : I-69 in Fremont ; Ohio : US 20 in Maumee : I-75 in Rossford near Toledo : I-280 in Lake Township : US 250 near Milan : US 42 in {{marker|name=Cleveland|wikidata=Q37320}} : I-71 in Cleveland : I-490 in Cleveland : US 422 in downtown Cleveland : I-77 in downtown Cleveland : US 322 in downtown Cleveland : US 6 in downtown Cleveland : US 20 in Euclid : I-271 in Willoughby Hills near Cleveland ; Pennsylvania : US 6N in Springfield Township : I-79 near Erie : US 19 near Erie : I-86 near Erie : US 20 near North East ; New York : US 20 in Hanover : US 219 in West Seneca : I-190 in {{marker|name=Buffalo|wikidata=Q40435}} : I-290 in Williamsville near Buffalo : I-490 near Bergen : I-390 near Rochester : I-490 near Victor : I-690 near Syracuse : I-81 in Syracuse : I-481 near Syracuse : I-790 in Utica : I-890 near Schenectady : I-88 in Rotterdam : I-890 near Schenectady : I-87 in {{marker|name=Albany|wikidata=Q24861}} : US 9 in downtown Albany : I-787 in downtown Albany : US 4 in East Greenbush : US 9 / US 20 in Schodack ; Massachusetts [[File:Mass_Pike_PD.svg|22x22px]] [[File:US 20.svg|22x22px]] The '''[https://www.mass.gov/ezdrivema Massachusetts Turnpike] (I-90 in MA)]''' spans {{mile|138}} as the longest east-highway across Massachusetts. The turnpike enters via West Stockbridge from New York state, linking with the Berkshire Connector portion of the New York State Thruway and ends at the Boston Logan Airport east of Boston. US 20 runs its easternmost 153 miles (246 km) through Massachusetts. The highway crosses the state border from New Lebanon, New York, into Hancock and runs eastward to Boston, where it ends at MA-2 in Kenmore Square. It spends the vast majority of its journey paralleling I-90 (Massachusetts Turnpike), which has largely superseded US 20 for through Massachusetts since 1957 when the turnpike opened. : [[File:US 20.svg|22x22px]] in [[Lee_(Massachusetts)|Lee]] : [[File:US 202.svg|22x22px]] in [[Westfield_(Massachusetts)|Westfield]] : [[File:I-95.svg|22x22px]] / [[File:US 5.svg|22x22px]] in[[West_Springfield_(Massachusetts)|West Springfield]] : {{marker|name=[[Springfield_(Massachusetts)|Springfield]]|wikidata=}} :: [[File:I-391.svg|22x22px]] :: [[File:I-91.svg|22x22px]] : [[File:I-291.svg|22x22px]] in [[Chicopee]] near Springfield : [[File:I-84.svg|22x22px]] in Sturbridge : [[File:I-395.svg|22x22px]] [[File:I-290.svg|22x22px]] in [[Auburn_(Massachusetts)|Auburn]] : [[File:MA_Route_146.svg|22x22px]] in [[Millbury]] : [[File:I-495.svg|22x22px]] in [[Hopkinton_(Massachusetts)|Hopkinton]] : [[File:I-95.svg|22x22px]] in [[Weston_(Massachusetts)|Weston]] : [[File:I-93.svg|22x22px]] in {{marker|name=[[Boston]]|wikidata=Q100}} Exit 134 leads towards I-93 south while exit 135 leads to Congress Street in [[Boston/South Boston|South Boston]]. :: [[File:US 20.svg|22x22px]] & [[File:MA_Route_2.svg|22x22px]] US 20 (Massachusetts Ave) begins/ends at its intersection with MA-2 (Commonwealth Ave) [[Boston/Back_Bay-Beacon_Hill|west of downtown Boston]]. US 20 runs continuously west to US 101 in [[Florence_(Oregon)|Florence, Oregon]], {{mile|3365}} west. I-90 (Massachusetts Turnpike in MA) supersedes US 20 between Boston and Rockford, IL. It intersects I-90 at exits 10 and 94 in Massachusetts. : [[File:MA_Route_1A.svg|22x22px]] [[File:MUTCD I3-5.svg|22x22px]] I-90/Massachusetts Turnpike begins/ends at its junction with MA-1A at [[Logan International Airport]] (exit 137) in [[Boston/East Boston|East Boston]]. : [[File:MA_Route_60.svg|22x22px]] at [[File:US 1.svg|22x22px]] MA-1A continues the next {{mile|5}} north of Logan Airport to its junction at US 1 in [[Revere]]. It curves west towards US 1 as MA-60 (Squire Road). ==Alternative routes== : [[File:I-94.svg|22px]] [[File:Ontario 401.svg|22px]] [[File:Ontario 402.svg|22px]] Interstate 94 (I-94) is the northernmost highway that starts at its junction with I-90 (exit 494) in Billings, Montana. It continues east, {{mile|1555}}, across Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan to its eastern terminus at the Canadian border in [[Port Huron|Port Huron, Michigan]], where it crosses into [[Point_Edward_(Ontario)|Point Edward, Ontario]] on the Blue Water Bridge. The same road continues another 293 km east to [[Toronto]] (via [[London_(Ontario)|London]]) as ON-402 & 401. From Point Edward to London as ON-402, and as ON-401 from London to Toronto. I-94 intersects I-90 in Billings, Montana; Tomah, Wisconsin; Madison, Wisconsin; Chicago, Illinois; and Lake Station, Indiana. I-94 is concurrent with I-90 between Tomah and Madison, Wisconsin and again through downtown Chicago to the South side of Chicago on the I-94 Express. I-90 & 94 are most direct east-west highways between Seattle and Toronto via Billings (Jct I-90/94) and Port Huron. It is the only east-west highway to cross the US/Canadian border. It connects Billings, Bismarck, Fargo, Minneapolis–Saint Paul, Madison, Milwaukee, Chicago, and Detroit. : [[File:US 2.svg|22px]] : [[File:US 10.svg|22px]] [[File:Business_Loop_90.svg|22px]] [[File:Business_Loop_94.svg|22px]] US 10 goes from its junction with I-94 & US 52 in West Fargo to Manitowoc, Wisconsin through Minnesota and Wisconsin. It goes across Lake Michigan on the ''USS Badger'' ferry from Manitowoc to Ludington, Michigan where it continues across [[West Michigan|West]] and [[Central Michigan]] to its eastern terminus at I-75 in [[Bay City_(Michigan)|Bay City]]. Historically US 10 was a continuous highway between Seattle and Bay City via Lake Michigan but has since been decommissioned and replaced by Interstates 90 and 94 to go across North Dakota, Montana, Idaho and Washington into Seattle. Remnants of the old US 10 alongside I-90 and 94 have been re-numbered as Business Loop or Spur 90 or 94 (green shields) to access the cities and towns from the interstate highway. Other remaining sections of the old US 10 have been renumbered as a state highway in Montana, North Dakota and Washington or as a locally named or numbered road without a state or US highway designation in various places. : [[File:US 12.svg|22px]] US 12 is a {{mile|2500}} long highway between [[Aberdeen_(Washington)|Aberdeen, Washington]] and [[Detroit|Detroit, Michigan]]. It is mostly superseded by Interstate 90 (I-90) and I-94, but, unlike most U.S. Highways that have been superseded by an Interstate, US 12 remains intact as an important link for local and regional destinations alongside I-90 and 94. : [[File:US 16.svg|22px]] [[File:MN-16.svg|22px]] [[File:WIS_16.svg|22px]] [[File:I-96.svg|22px]] US 16 goes from the eastern gate of Yellowstone National Park to it junction with I-190 in Rapid Falls, through Mount Rushmore National Park in the Black Hills National Forest. Historically US 16 was a continuous highway between Detroit and Yellowstone National Park via Lake Michigan but has since been decommissioned and replaced by Interstate 90 (I-90) between Rapid Falls, South Dakota and Dexter, Minnesota; and by I-96 between Muskegon and Detroit, Michigan. From Rapid Falls to Dexter the old US 16 still remain alongside I-90 as a two lane road with different state highway and county road designations. Between Dexter and Milwaukee the old US 16 has been renumbered as State Route (SR) 16 in both Minnesota and Wisconsin. WIS-16 parallels I-90 or 94 across Wisconsin. : [[File:US 20.svg|22px]] US 20 is the longest east-west across the United States spanning {{mile|3365}} between [[Florence_(Oregon)|Florence, Oregon]] and [[Boston|Boston, Massachusetts]]. It is superseded by the toll highways (I-90) between Rockford, Illinois and Boston, Massachusetts but remains intact. It closely parallels I-90 through Chicagoland (in Illinois); Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York and Massachusetts with some sections of US 20 intersecting I-90 in some places. : [[File:US 30.svg|22px]] [[File:LincolnHighwayMarker.svg|22px]] [[File:I-80.svg|22px]] The [[Lincoln Highway]] is a historic trans-continental highway that starts in Times Square in New York City and runs approximately 3,142 mi (5,057 km) west through the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada and California; to Lincoln Park in San Francisco, California. US 30 carries much of the Lincoln Highway from Philadelphia to Granger, Wyoming. Interstates 76 and 80, in turn, supersedes US 30 between Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Granger, Wyoming with a section of I-80 concurrent with I-90 on the Ohio Turnpike, Indiana Toll Road and the Chicago Skyway. ==Go next== * The [[American Industry Tour]] showcases the industrial heritage of the Northeastern United States. As many other historical trails in North America, the tour follows migration routes from east to west, with a chronology from colonial times to the present day. Starting in [[Boston]] in the 17th and 18th centuries, visit the 19th-century factory clusters around [[Albany (New York)|Albany]] and [[New York City]], and carry on through industrial regions of Pennsylvania, Ohio and Michigan, which had their heyday during the 20th century, ending in [[Chicago]]. Many of the places named in the article are accessible from I-90. * [[File:I-5.svg|22px]] [[File:US 99.svg|22px]] [[Interstate 5|Interstate 5 (I-5) (Old U.S. Hwy 99)]] Interstate 5 serves as the main north-south interstate along the west coast, between Blaine, Washington at the Canadian border to San Ysidro at the Mexican border, south of San Diego. It replaces much of US 99 from Blaine, Washington to Los Angeles, California and US 101 from Los Angeles (where US 101 ends) to San Diego California. I-90 intersects I-5 in Seattle. * [[The Jazz Track]] is an itinerary for visiting jazz-related places (particularly big band and traditional jazz) in the United States. Along I-90 Chicago is one of several jazz related places mentioned in the article. * [[Mississippi River]] * The [[Mohawk Trail]] was a historical Native American migratory game path. Today it is Massachusetts Route 2, a 63-mile east-west highway that extends from the Massachusetts-New York line to Millers Falls on the Connecticut River. The Mohawk Trail features over 100 attractions and has been recognized as one of the best scenic routes in the United States * The [[Mountains to Sound Greenway]] is the stretch of I-90 from Seattle through the Cascade Mountains to Ellensburg. It was the first interstate designated as a National Scenic Byway. * [[Pan-American Highway#United States (Lower 48)|Pan American (PanAm) Highway]] In the U.S. all interstate highways make up the 'Pan-American' highway which spans from the northern coast of Alaska to the Darien Gap in Panama. Interstate 90 intersects the [[w:CANAMEX_Corridor|CANAMEX_Corridor]], a variation of the Pan-Am Highway from the southern end of the [[Alaska Highway]] in [[Dawson Creek|Dawson Creek, BC]]; through Alberta, the United States and eventually into Mexico City at Interstate 15 in Butte, Montana. Another variation of the Pan American Highway connects El Paso at the Mexican border to northern Saskatchewan in Canada by way of I-25/US Hwy 85 in the U.S., and a variety of provincial highways through Saskatchewan which would intersect I-90 at its intersection with I-25 in Wyoming. * [[From Plymouth to Hampton Roads]] is an itinerary along the Atlantic coast of the United States, showcasing the nation's early history, from the first Anglo-American settlements in the 17th century to the American Civil War, which ended in 1865. * [[File:US_66_(historic).svg|25px]] [[File:I-55.svg|22px]] [[Route 66#Day 1: Chicago to Springfield, Illinois|Route 66]] (aka Old US 66) was a highway that extended from [[Chicago]] to Los Angeles. It crossed much of the [[American Midwest]], [[Great Plains]], and [[Southwest_(United_States_of_America)|Southwest]]. Although Highway 66 is no longer commissioned as a US Highway, it represents a multitude of ideas: freedom, migration West, and the loneliness of the American heartland. More than four-fifths of it remain drivable (though not always well-marked) as a collection of state highways and local roads. [[Radiator Springs]] is a fictional village on Route 66, depicted in the 2006 Pixar animated film, ''Cars'' with real places along the US Route 66 as the backdrop. The eastern terminus of Route 66 is at E Jackson Blvd & Lakeshore Dr (US 41) in downtown Chicago nearest the junction of I-90/94 and I-290/IL-110. From the EB lane of I-90/94 exit at 51E and go east on W Monroe towards Lake Shore Dr (US 41). From the WB lanes of I-90/94 go east on IL-110 towards Lake Shore Dr. One can also travel along I-55 from south of downtown Chicago towards St Louis, as I-55 follows alongside the Route 66 between Chicago and St Louis. * [[File:US 1.svg|22px]] [[U.S._Highway_1#Massachusetts|US Highway 1]] predates the interstate highway system (Interstate 95) still in existence along the eastern seaboard. It connects [[Fort Kent]], [[Aroostook|Maine]] in the north to [[Key West]], [[Florida Keys|Florida]] in the south. I-90 terminates at US 1 as MA-60 in [[Boston]]. * The "[[Underground Railroad]]" is a network of disparate historical routes used by African-American slaves to escape the United States and slavery by reaching freedom in Canada and the northern free states. Today many of the stations along the "railroads" serve as museums and memorials to the former slaves' journey north. Many of which are located in the northern states served by Interstate 90. {{usableitinerary}} {{PartOfItinerary|North America itineraries}} etjzyi8psoz3819q9ds2tcrx0aamtnq 4 202938 5091106 5086536 2025-07-11T00:44:22Z SHB2000 2248002 5091106 wikitext text/x-wiki {{DOTM archive index}} ==2025== ===[[Forillon National Park]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Forillon National Park | blurb=The final Land's End of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape is an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore. | status=Guide | time=June-August | nominatedBy=<small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=The article is in excellent shape, with the exception of a couple external links, which are a five-minute fix. | DotMImage=[[File:La Chute - Forillon National Park.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' <s>pending minor fixes</s> {{done}}. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:19, 6 January 2025 (UTC) * The article looks good, so a '''support''' for that. However, I remember that [[Gaspé Peninsula]] where the national park is was [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Slush_pile#Gaspé_Peninsula|nominated for OtBP]] by Andre who wrote many of the articles from this region, so maybe we should put this article too in the OtBP category? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:23, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *:I considered that as well. It seemed a fairly prominent national park, but admittedly, I have never been to Canada so I don't know whether it would be considered "off the beaten path" or not. Any thoughts from our Canadian editors? [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]]? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 20:15, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support''' It is not a big name. It may be well-known in Quebec, but most Canadians won't have heard of it. SelfieCity: for the love of all that is good, why ''haven't'' you been to Canada? We are one of only two countries that share a land border with the U.S. And it's pretty nice up here. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 20:33, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *:Indeed, I do need to visit Canada sometime. Good to know about the location, and I suggest we move this to OTBP. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 22:25, 6 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support as OtBP''' per nom and GZ. Looks great, though the listings might need a last-minute check right before we feature the article. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:46, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ::I have updated many listings, but the hikingbtrails section should be checked to ensure it is still up to date. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 13:01, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:{{ping|SHB2000}} Given how short summers can be in this part of Canada, I'd suggest making this the July OTBP (per above discussion), giving time to go there in August or early September, and Vaals the August feature. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 02:35, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *::That would also work. I was thinking of featuring this for August given how close by Maine is (on a grand scale), but I can't see it being too much of an issue. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:38, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:::I agree but the [[Gaspe]] region gets much colder going into winter. Regardless the schedule works! <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 03:26, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Support''' - Detailed, lively and complete. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:34, 27 February 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' OtBP for July 2025. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:43, 11 July 2025 (UTC) ===[[Cuzco]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Cuzco | blurb=Cuzco is not only a place to immense yourself in Inca history and culture, but also the gateway to the Sacred Valley. | status=Guide | time=Apr-Oct is the dry season, according to the climate section | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:52, 28 November 2024 (UTC) | comment=One of those once in a lifetime travel destinations for many voyagers. Per se the article has a lot of content, <s>but as many coordinates are missing, probably those listings have been added a long time ago so everything needs to be run through Google a while before the article is featured. Of course if e.g. a restaurant was added say 15 years ago and it's still in business, it's usually a good indication that customers are happy with the place and it's worth going to.</s> | DotMImage=[[File:Plaza de Armas - Cusco.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Needs some work''' per comment. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:52, 28 November 2024 (UTC) * <s>'''Needs work''' per Ypsi. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:46, 14 February 2025 (UTC)</s> ::{{s}} post-improvements – awesome efforts from both of you! :) //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:37, 21 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' I've checked all listings, removed closed businesses, and added the missing coordinates and other information. I think the article is in better shape now and ready for DoTM. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:59, 26 February 2025 (UTC) * Hey, awesome! Obviously '''support''' now. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 06:23, 21 March 2025 (UTC) * It has a lot of content and I think it would be a good DoTM, but there is still work to do. I made some copyediting and tweaking now, but it definitely didn't seem polished. The worst worry I noticed was the section on day tours, many of which are to Go next destinations (I hope I didn't mess it up when starting fixing and then giving up for today). There also is some odd mixture of specific places/tours and general suggestions in the same lists, such as trekking suggested in [[Special:Permalink/5066487#In Cuzco City|In Cuzco City]], in a list starting with Plaza de Armas and ending with Planetario Cuzco. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:30, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[Public baths in Japan]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Public baths in Japan | blurb='''[[Public baths in Japan|Bathing Japanese style]]''' is a pleasure, and a visit to a Japanese hot spring should be on the agenda of every visitor. | status=Guide | time=Any time of year, except maybe midsummer | nominatedBy=[[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 22:28, 4 April 2024 (UTC) | comment=Needs a bit of cleanup but contentwise this is great. Not entirely convinced that "Toilets" belongs in here though. | DotMImage=[[File:Okuhida Bath Kodakara2.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Close''' - otherwise the article looks good, but the redlinks need to be dealt with (turned into redirects or articles, preferably with the baths listed). Also, as Jani said, I think the content of the Toilets section should be merged into [[Japan#Toilets]]. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 09:52, 21 July 2024 (UTC) ** I've merged the Toilets section back to the main page and commented out the redlinks for now, many of which are quite obscure; about the only name I recognized was Unzen. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 06:44, 29 September 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} per above. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:07, 16 October 2024 (UTC) ::'''Support''' as what I mentioned before has been fixed. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:08, 21 December 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' - looks goodǃ [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:14, 19 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Vaals]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Vaals | blurb=At the foot of Netherlands' highest point, Vaals is a great example of a Dutch small town, with a weekly market and all! | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=One of the guide articles of small Dutch towns that we haven't featured yet. Many listings need coordinates, and at that we'd also see if they're still in business. Otherwise I think it's in a good shape. Yeah, and some of the photos could be changed to ones with blue sky, to make the article look happier... | DotMImage=[[File:Vaals-Eschberg 5.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' per comment. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC) *'''Needs a little bit of work''' – listings lack coordinates and lastedit fields, but I'll try work on this over the coming days. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:30, 8 December 2024 (UTC) * '''Close'''. Aside from what's already been said, I'm mostly just wondering why [[Lemiers]] and [[Holset]] haven't been merged into this article yet? Generally speaking, the Netherlands is covered with municipalities as the bottom regions, with an occasional exception for large towns and historical cities. Neither of these towns really merits their own article on that basis and should probably be merged into the municipality they're a part of: Vaals. <span style="font-family:atkinson hyperlegible">― '''[[User:Wauteurz|Wauteurz]]''' <small>([[User talk:Wauteurz|talk]])</small></span> 12:45, 9 December 2024 (UTC) ::{{Ping|Wauteurz}} Well, the main authors of the articles in region haven't been around on Wikivoyage for quite a while so it's impossible to know why the villages have separate articles. Holset redirects to [[Lemiers]], though. I don't have much of opinion either way, but if Lemiers is merged here, also the listings currently there will be checked for up-to-datedness. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:01, 24 May 2025 (UTC) * Merger done, and listings checked (Wauteurz apparently checked the listings in Vaals proper in December so that should be up to date enough) so '''support''' --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:29, 3 June 2025 (UTC) *:I did for the listings that were in there, yes. I'll have a look at the stuff added from the mergers later this week. <span style="font-family:atkinson hyperlegible">― '''[[User:Wauteurz|Wauteurz]]''' <small>([[User talk:Wauteurz|talk]])</small></span> 20:50, 3 June 2025 (UTC) ::: Not necessary, I went through those last weekend ([https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Vijlen&diff=5070512&oldid=5059585 Vijlen] [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Lemiers&diff=prev&oldid=5070485 Lemiers]). Interestingly almost everything was in business and with working websites. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 03:51, 4 June 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' OtBP for June 2025. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:56, 11 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[Snowdonia National Park]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Snowdonia National Park | blurb=The stunning landscapes of Snowdon and surroundings can be explored both on foot and by several railways. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=European national parks aren't on the Main Page too often, so how about this Welsh one which looks really beautiful on the photos? We need to check that all the listings are still in operation, and some listings need a description. There are not many Eat, Drink and Sleep listings, but I guess it's because there are individual articles for towns in and around the park (listed in Sleep) where those can be found. | DotMImage=[[File:Y Garn.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Very very close''' per nomination --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 7 October 2024 (UTC) * Other than updates which I think can be done in due time, don't see why not. {{s}}. It's also nice to see some European nature (outside the Nordics) being featured. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:58, 2 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Close'''. The article looks fairly good, but there are some issues. For example, many of the listings do not even contain addresses or lack other important details. To me, just providing a list of about twenty towns with accommodation is an insufficient way of offering alternatives. We would better to describe, in detail, the pros and cons of staying in a few villages that make the most sense when visiting the park. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:21, 7 January 2025 (UTC) :: I agree that the listings that lack addresses and descriptions should have them added. :: For the villages in Sleep, they could be moved so some other section, Get around probably, and get geocoordinates. As there are villages all around the place and a dense road and rail network for being a park, you could probably stay anywhere you like and make a day trip to almost anywhere in the park so I don't think it's necessary to plan too much ahead. This would be different if it would be a more typical national park with a huge continuous area of nature where you are "stuck" in the part of the park you choose to stay. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:36, 27 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' with updates done. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:36, 24 May 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' DotM for June 2025. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:19, 1 June 2025 (UTC) ===[[E69]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=E69 | blurb=European Highway E69 goes through barren landscapes to the world's northernmost point you can reach by car | status=Guide | time=May (given that FTTs go on the Main Page towards the end of the month)-Aug | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:49, 13 October 2024 (UTC) | comment=A nice little itinerary largely written by [[User:SHB2000|a voyager]] from the other side of the world. It's an interesting drive, and the landscapes are different from much of the rest of the Nordic countries, so definitely something to showcase on the Main Page. | DotMImage=[[File:Europastrasse 69 Nordkapp.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:49, 13 October 2024 (UTC) * {{s}} Hey thanks for the nomination :-). --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 20:51, 13 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Comment'''. - While I '''Support''' the article in terms of content, I think we need to take a break from featuring Nordic countries' articles for a bit. We've featured an itinerary from at least one of Finland, Sweden, and Norway every year since 2021, which is a much higher feature rate than what most other countries have. I'd say we should wait on this article at least a year or so and give other countries' itineraries a chance, especially if we run the Jewish Stockholm Tour article in 2025/early 2026 (although I know someone commented on that post that we should wait until 2027 for that article). [[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 08:32, 16 October 2024 (UTC) :: Well, the problem is that sadly we don't have that many topic articles (topics, itineraries, airports, phrasebooks etc.) left that are 1. both at guide or Star status and 2. we haven't featured as FTT and 3. haven't earlier been deemed [[Wikivoyage:Destination of the month candidates/Slush pile|not good enough]] for the Main Page, with little to none development on them thereafter. ::Those that remain are just from a few corners of the world (aside of phrasebooks, most are from the U.S., Northern Europe, Japan and Australia) and we have even less topics not bound to any specific part of the world - such as Gemstones above. Sure, we do have some geographical diversity when it comes to articles of the same type like airports and cuisine articles, however we likewise usually try to keep one year between articles of the same type. :: Therefore I've tried to stuff a couple of Northern European articles in the summer slots when it's the best time of the year to visit here to save eligible articles for the rest of the year. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:41, 16 October 2024 (UTC) ::: Articles featured on Wikitravel up to 2012 are unofficial, and eligible to feature again. (See [[Wikivoyage_talk:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Archive/2019-2023#Shall_features_before_2013_be_seen_as_unofficial?]]) That gives us some more candidates. However, rather few of those are travel topics; see [[Previous_Featured_travel_topics#Unofficial_features]]. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 20:11, 16 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:41, 7 January 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' FTT for May 2025. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:28, 21 May 2025 (UTC) ===[[New England National Park]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=New England National Park | blurb=Visit one of the world's best preserved Gondwana Rainforests in New South Wales with many of New England National Park's hiking trails showcasing exactly that. | status=Guide | time=Southern winter (ideally), though spring and autumn also work. | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 06:02, 29 March 2024 (UTC) | comment=We have 25 Australian guide park articles – let's feature another one of them. | DotMImage=[[File:N Eng NP (1).jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} per my comment. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 06:02, 29 March 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''; maybe June or July would be a suitable month? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:01, 20 September 2024 (UTC) *:Yes indeed; it's less likely to rain in those months making the park 2WD-accessible. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:40, 20 September 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. At first I was inclined to oppose this nomination because the article is short, but on closer glance, everything important to know about visiting the park is present and a tourist could create a good itinerary from the article. It answers all the key questions, such as how to get there, whether there are fees (there are not), where to sleep, etc. My only recommendation would be to add more information about places to eat in [[Ebor]], given that this article points there for information. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:28, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *:I gave [[Ebor]] a bit of a refurbish – but there really isn't a whole lot in Ebor, just basic food (as was the situation in mid-November). --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:18, 21 January 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' OtBP for May 2025. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:48, 11 May 2025 (UTC) ===[[Kraków]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Kraków | blurb=With over a thousand years of history and a uniquely well-preserved [[Kraków/Old City|Old City]], Kraków is [[Poland]]'s top tourist draw for a reason. | status=Guide | time=Any time outside midwinter | nominatedBy=[[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 06:23, 29 September 2024 (UTC) | comment=I'm genuinely surprised this very detailed guide has never been a DotM. Prices need updating (inflation has been on a roll lately) and the POIs could use more coordinates, but there's plenty of content in here. | DotMImage=[[File:Krakau_Markt.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Very close''' - It was slushed back in 2012, then apparently because the district articles were in a poor state. Now they do have content and usable status, though we should definitely update the listings there. The main article is quite OK, but some sections with bullet points could be converted to normal text, and there is probably a thing or two to update here also. Finally, the last third of the article could use a photo or two. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:22, 7 October 2024 (UTC) ::{{done}} and '''Support''' --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:39, 30 April 2025 (UTC) * '''Close'''. Not a bad article, but to me, it feels wanting. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:19, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *'''Close''' per Ypsi. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:46, 14 February 2025 (UTC) *'''Support''' per nom. Good example of a huge city guide with relatively complete district articles. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:12, 14 April 2025 (UTC) *'''Almost''' Ideally it would be updated a little before it is featured, but there are no show stoppers. The See section could be slightly longer, as I don't feel that it gives a full enough introduction to somebody that knows nothing about the city. In sleep the "Private accommodation" section feels dated - do landlords still approach people outside the letting agencies. When I visited Krakow in the 90s there were landlords selling their rooms by the station, but there weren't B&B websites then. There prices in the text (taxi rates etc) that could be out of date. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:41, 14 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Vancouver International Airport]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Vancouver International Airport | blurb=Canada's main airport on the Pacific is well connected to East Asia. | status=Guide | time=Any; again as the airports that get their own articles are places where many people change planes and also for departures from the destination, the local weather really doesn't need to be considered unlike for our DotM and OtBP features... | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:22, 9 August 2024 (UTC) | comment=Believe it or not, it was before the pandemic we last featured an airport guide from outside Asia. Here's a good one that I had my eyes on for quite a while. A shoutout to [[User:Othello95]] for starting up and writing much of the article! | DotMImage=[[File:YVR International arrivals Hall 2018.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:22, 9 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' - Looks complete and listings are generally less than 3 years old. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 16:33, 30 August 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} per above. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:02, 4 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Almost''' - Pretty good article but the "Destinations" section is a huge washlist of every place that a flight out of this airport goes. A short summary paragraph with just the highlights would be better. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:12, 4 October 2024 (UTC) ::{{done}} I agree, listing individual destinations can be useful for tiny airports with just a couple of destinations. But in this case it's just unwieldy not to mention it's hard to keep it up to date, so I just commented it out. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 21:18, 10 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - Thanks for editing the Destinations section. Everything looks good to me now. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:20, 19 February 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' FTT for April 2025. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:30, 21 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Khujand]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Khujand | blurb= Founded by Alexander the Great and beloved by Lenin, Tajikistan's second city is more than just a base for hiking into the nearby Fann Mountains. | status=Guide | time=Any time | nominatedBy=[[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 17:18, 13 May 2024 (UTC) | comment=We've done one (1) Central Asian destination in all of DotM history (Karakol). It's high time we feature something else from the region. While I know that even major CA cities like Almaty might count as OtBP, I nominated Khujand because it's a hidden gem of the region and many mountaineering tourists use it as a base for treks into the Fann mountains when they visit Tajikistan. Many 'multi-Stan' tours now go through Khujand as well, since the Pamir Hwy is essentially a no-go with the Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan border being closed. It can be run at any month of the year since the climate is mild enough in the winter and not boiling hot in the summer. Summer or Fall would fit best with the mountaineering schedule. | DotMImage=[[File:Detail on Khujand Fortress1.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Comment''' - I'd imagine a city of almost 200,000 inhabitants would have a few more places to Drink and Sleep worth listing? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:21, 9 July 2024 (UTC) * '''Comment:''' I was going to say something similar to Ypsi – surely a city of that size has more establishments than what's on the page as of typing this? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:05, 9 July 2024 (UTC) *:I have been living in Khujand since Aug 2023, and there is one bar and only three reputable hotels, which are all listed. There do exist a few other businesses that brand themselves as being "hotels", but I have not been able to verify their quality or any other important information about them. There is one bar in town, and even then it's more for hookah than for alcohol. [[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 01:15, 21 July 2024 (UTC) *::I see, in that case I '''support'''. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:55, 21 July 2024 (UTC) *:::I went and added the few other hotels that I know of that I could find information for online. I also broke it down into "Budget and Mid-range" and "Splurge" subsections. [[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 02:00, 21 July 2024 (UTC) *::::One thing, though: given this is TJ's second-largest city, wouldn't this be better suited as a DotM? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:38, 23 July 2024 (UTC) *:::::I think it could be either - Central Asia as a whole is very much a "forgotten" part of the world (at least by Anglophone travelers) so imo it would probably be at about the same level of notoriety as a place like [[Zinder]] or [[Taos]] - known to a decent number of travelers, but nowhere near the numbers that somewhere like [[Recife]] or [[Harbin]] are known. But if the consensus is that it's better as a DotM, then that works. [[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 04:47, 26 July 2024 (UTC) *::::::My thing by doing so is we're being extremely ethnocentric by only catering for Anglophone countries (enwikivoyage has evolved into catering for pretty much everyone given how lackluster most other voy projects are barring de and itwikivoyage). But I also wouldn't object it being an OtBP if that's what consensus goes with. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:24, 26 July 2024 (UTC) *:::::::Are the sights crowded with tourists? If so, DotM would suit better. But if there aren't many tourists, even if the city is comparably well-known, then OtBP feels alright. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:22, 26 July 2024 (UTC) *::::::::Maybe, but it feels incredibly wrong to feature [[Arches National Park]], [[Glacier National Park (Montana)]], and [[Milford Sound]] as DotMs but not this. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:57, 26 July 2024 (UTC) *::::::::Having lived there, I can say with relative certainty that it is NOT a hyper-touristy destination. We didn't start to get tourists until the end of spring (partly because only a <s>stupid</s> masochistic person goes hiking in Tajikistan's mountains in the winter and partly because that's when the Central Asian/Silk Road package tours start running). All of the national parks [[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] listed get more tourists and have more name recognition than Khujand. My vote is for OtBP. [[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 20:25, 26 July 2024 (UTC) *:::::::::We also need to update the banner since there has been an uptick in construction on the north side of the river; I tried earlier and it didn't work. [[User:Tuyuhun|Tuyuhun]] ([[User talk:Tuyuhun|talk]]) 20:27, 26 July 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 21:59, 23 July 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' again, if there isn't any more places to list, then the article would be complete... --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:08, 20 September 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' although some minor fixes are needed, including one or two external links, and a very minor formatting points: some of those "buy" listings should use the marker template because they are part of prose. However, the content looks excellent. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:30, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' interesting article with a nice selection of up-to-date listings. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:27, 27 February 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' OtBP for April 2025. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:31, 11 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Wilmington (North Carolina)]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Wilmington (North Carolina) | blurb=Gardens and plantations meet antebellum architecture and beaches of the Atlantic in the city sometimes nicknamed Wilmywood | status=Guide | time=April 2025? - warm weather but not hurricane season yet, and in April there's an Azalea Festival too | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:59, 24 July 2024 (UTC) | comment=This is one of those destinations that could work both as a DotM and OtBP, I'm putting it in the former because we already have OtBP candidates for the spring months. The article does have content in all sections, but a lot of listings need coordinates and when googling and adding them we will also find which places that have closed down. In other words, Wilmington needs the standard update a month or two before the article goes on the Main Page. | DotMImage=[[File:Battleship NORTH CAROLINA.jpeg|thumb|300px]] }} <s>* '''Almost''' per comment. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:59, 24 July 2024 (UTC)</s> ::'''Support''' with fixes done, although I might look up and add a few more restaurants that have received good reviews on multiple platforms. Someone may point out the lack of coordinates in the couple of listings towards the end, but fire stations and newspaper headquarters aren't places where "customers" generally visit; actually we could delete the Cope section and add the local newspaper as a URL in Understand or maybe Do or Drink if it has a good coverage of events. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:19, 11 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' for Dotm. It's a great destination too often overlooked in favour of Charleston, but hardly OtBP. The page is in good shape but needs update. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 16:29, 8 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Oppose''' currently. This article isn't in great shape, and certainly isn't DotM shape right now. Giving it an all-around update will take a lot of work &mdash; much of the article is messy, and many listings need coordinates. Personally I wouldn't have rated this article a guide article in its current condition to the lack of listing coordinates. However, if you're confident you can make all the fixes before April, I have no fundamental opposition to featuring the city. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:17, 7 January 2025 (UTC) ::I wouldn't say there's that much of work needed, and wouldn't call the article messy though it probably contains outdated information. Most importantly all of the items in See, Do etc. are listingfied. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:09, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * <s>'''Needs work''' – many coordinates and lastedit fields are missing. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:45, 14 February 2025 (UTC)</s> *:Are we still featuring this in April? There is no consensus at the moment. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:28, 1 March 2025 (UTC) ::I have been improving the article over the last weeks, but if this again is one of those cases where there is a consensus that we should feature anything else but this article then I guess it would be a waste of time. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 08:23, 1 March 2025 (UTC) :::I still prefer featuring in April, but I asked in light of [[Wikivoyage_talk:Destination_of_the_month_candidates#When_is_good_enough_good_enough?|this discussion]]. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:35, 1 March 2025 (UTC) ::::Thanks to [[User:Gerode|Gerode]] for helping out. I will probably have more time next week. The listings lacking coordinates can be counted on one hand's fingers and some of them might not be needed. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:15, 9 March 2025 (UTC) ::'''Support''' post-fixes. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:35, 12 March 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - fixes look good and article is up-to-date. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:33, 12 March 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' DotM for April 2025. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:32, 2 April 2025 (UTC) ===[[Jewish Stockholm tour]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Jewish Stockholm tour | blurb=One of few European capitals to evade the Holocaust has a lively Jewish community, celebrating 250 years as a legal faith and 25 years as a recognized minority. | status=Guide | time=2025 is the 250th anniversary of legalization of Judaism, the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII, and the 25th anniversary of the recognition of Jews as a national minority. It will be 2 years since the conceptually similar [[Swedish Empire]] featured. While weather is best at summer, this tour could be appropriate at Pesach or Rosh Hashana. | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 12:12, 23 September 2024 (UTC) | comment=As the Jewish community in Stockholm has always been rather small, the scope of this article is limited, making it unclear how to meet the requirements for status. Native English proofreading and suggested additions would be appreciated. The security situation at Jewish sites has been complex; hopefully it will not get even worse. | DotMImage=[[File:Jewish Museum of Sweden.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' - Interesting and somewhat unexpected topic; I would never have guessed there'd be so much of Jewish heritage in Stockholm to create a whole article. For the scheduling, I remember saying earlier that I planned to nominate [[Gothenburg]] for some summer month next summer, meaning it'd be better to run this during either of the holidays you mentioned - why not right away at the Pesach (March's FTT slot - if readers are worried about the weather they can postpone their visit a couple of months)? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:41, 27 September 2024 (UTC) *'''Support''' per above. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:07, 27 September 2024 (UTC) : '''Comment:''' Some Jewish sites (in particular the cemeteries) are too far from the main route to serve as useful waypoints, though still mentioned in the article. Several of the waypoints (statues of kings etc) don't have a direct connection to Swedish Jews, but instead serve as proxies for important events in Jewish history. As mentioned, [[Swedish Empire]] (with emphasis on Stockholm) featured May-June 2023, giving 22 months cooldown before May-April 2025 (24 months have been recommended), and we would wait until 2027 to feature another Stockholm-based article ([[Södermalm heights tour]], [[Stockholm environmentalist tour]] or [[Haunted Stockholm tour]] might be considered). /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 19:56, 2 October 2024 (UTC) ::Sorry, but I don't see how the Swedish Empire article would be focused on Stockholm. Just six out of 35 listings are from there and the very point of the article is the Swedish government/king exercising power (in some cases far) outside present-day Sweden. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:48, 16 October 2024 (UTC) ::: The 24-month cooldown is in any case just a recommendation, and it is suitable to schedule this article for 2025, as the Jewish community celebrates a multiple anniversary. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 17:26, 16 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Excellent article. My only suggestion would be that the timeline section should be moved to "Understand" rather than at the end of the article. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:38, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *I'm really glad I copy edited this article, but having done so, I '''support''' featuring it as a very interesting and well-documented one. I did post a question about Schmaltz's cuisine on the article's talk page, but that can be resolved. As a side point, I have relatives in the Stockholm area who are descendants of my great uncle and namesake who was expelled from his position in the Polish Communist Party during the 1968 anti-Jewish purge but got a pension check from the Polish Embassy every month as an exile in Stockholm, nevertheless, as a loyal communist. A lot of odd things have happened in history. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:56, 24 February 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:19, 16 March 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' FTT for March 2025. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 06:19, 21 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Banteay Chhmar]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Banteay Chhmar | blurb=Explore the remains of the Khmer Empire in a more low-key setting than at Angkor Wat, while experiencing traditional culture. | status=Guide | time=March 2025? Otherwise Nov-Apr | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) | comment=As Sekigahara apparently will be moved forward to October, we need a not-so-touristy destination for March's slot. Banteay Chhmar was [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Slush_pile/2021#Banteay_Chhmar|nominated and slushed]] in 2021 due to lack of coordinates, so those should be added. However it shouldn't take too long as there are not very many listings due to the nature of this place. In addition, per my comment in 2021 ''"Perhaps the sites and BC's history need to be expanded on a bit. Other than that this is seemingly a quiet little village with one village organization taking care of everything from guided tours to hotels and meals, so probably not much to add when it comes to services. "'' Said organization has a [https://www.visitbanteaychhmar.org website] where we can check that prices etc. are still up to date. | DotMImage=[[File:Banteay Chhmar Temple Entrance.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Close''', like back then. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:38, 15 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - updates done and coordinates added. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:46, 25 January 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} per Ypsi. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:44, 14 February 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' - it feels a bit light for a "guide" and would still benefit from more info about the site history, but it's up to date and an interesting place. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:05, 25 February 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' OtBP for March 2025. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:12, 10 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[El Gouna]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=El Gouna | blurb=This Red Sea resort has some activity for everyone, in an environment that's not just glass, steel and tourists on the coast. | status=Guide | time="Autumn and spring are the best times to visit", though I wouldn't run a place next to the Sahara desert too close to summer... March 2025? | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:59, 24 July 2024 (UTC) | comment=How about an article about a beach resort town built from scratch, I don't remember us featuring any destination like that before? I translated the [[:de:El Gouna|Star status article from German WV]] (which has a strong coverage of Egypt) last year, checking listings in Google Maps. Now when looking at the article, it has quite a lot of pictures, so maybe some of them should be deleted (the original article has even more of them), but otherwise I think the article looks OK. | DotMImage=[[File:El Gouna Tamr Henna R02.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:59, 24 July 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. We should fix that one dead link, though. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:14, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * {{s}} --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:05, 31 January 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' DotM for March 2025. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:14, 1 March 2025 (UTC) ===[[Serbian phrasebook]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Serbian phrasebook | blurb=Written in two scripts, Serbian is closely related to other languages in the former Yugoslavia. As such, this phrasebook can be helpful throughout much of the Western Balkans. | status=Guide | time=Any | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:22, 9 August 2024 (UTC) | comment=We've featured something from most European countries, but the countries that have never been on the Main Page are almost all in the Balkans. So let's add a few countries more with this phrasebook. All of the words and sentences have been translated, but as usual I plan to add quite a lot of pictures (as usual with our featured phrasebooks) to make the article livelier. | DotMImage=[[File:E-75 in Serbia.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support'''. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:22, 9 August 2024 (UTC) : '''Comment:''' When it comes to season, we have some tradition to feature phrasebooks during the beginning of the year. This is appropriate, as climate in Serbia is good at spring and autumn. Not sure about public events, though. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 23:12, 20 August 2024 (UTC) ::Well, we don't need events for all articles, even if they are nice to have every now and then. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:30, 21 August 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} and yeah, gotta agree with Ypsi with the timing. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:03, 4 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per others. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:36, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * Photos added! --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 21:39, 11 January 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' FTT for 2025-02. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 11:52, 20 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Tezpur]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Tezpur | blurb=The venue for a love story involving the grandson of Lord Krishna, don't be surprised to find several shrines and temples in this city on the Brahmaputra. | status=Guide | time=Nov-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:38, 20 August 2024 (UTC) | comment=We need something for February's OtBP slot, and there's been a while since we featured an Indian article. The article looks good, but it was [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Slush_pile#Tezpur|slushed]] a little over a year ago because of the Drink section. However, as I commented on [[Talk:Tezpur]] (the last thread), it's really hard to find drinking establishments in Tezpur, especially ones serving alcohol, and this also goes for the menus of restaurants. So possibly there really isn't anything to add to the Drink section. If this is the case I think the article is good to go after a removal of closed places. | DotMImage=[[File:Agnigarh Hill, Tezpur.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' though some time before it is featured closed places should be deleted, links updated etc. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:38, 20 August 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' &mdash; on the whole, this is an excellent article. I would argue we should remove some of the fast food chains per [[WV:Boring]], but would note that there appears to be enough content in the article that those removals wouldn't jeopardize a feature nomination. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:32, 7 January 2025 (UTC) ::Updates done, and like you suggested, I commented out Pizza Hut and the other worldwide chains. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:39, 23 January 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' OtBP for Feb 2025. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:08, 10 February 2025 (UTC) ===[[Recife]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Recife | blurb=There are many sides to Recife, the city is steeped in colonial history but famed for its urban beaches too. | status=Guide | time=Oct-Feb (Carnival in late February!) | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:58, 1 May 2024 (UTC) | comment=Updated in late 2020/early 2021, nominated for a slot in early 2022. I mentioned then that the listings needed to be checked for up to datedness, but otherwise the article was in a quite good shape. Now almost half a year before the article was to be run, it was [[Wikivoyage:Destination_of_the_month_candidates/Slush_pile#Recife|slushed]] because it hadn't been updated (also because there was a bad COVID situation in Brazil, nevertheless I can't remember this would have been a problem for any other article that was featured during the pandemic). So here it is again. Some edits have been made to the article by others in the meantime, to a large extent it's the same article. As I envision to see this on the main page perhaps for February's slot, it's better to make the up to date check later. | DotMImage=[[File:Boa viagem.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:58, 1 May 2024 (UTC) :: Updates {{done}}, and therefore '''Support'''. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:58, 19 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:48, 3 May 2024 (UTC) * <s>'''Almost''', pending the fix of dead links and updating of listings</s>. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:15, 7 January 2025 (UTC) :: '''Support''' following updates and improvements. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 13:21, 24 January 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' DotM for Feb 2024. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 07:05, 31 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Diving the Cape Peninsula and False Bay/MV Aster]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Diving the Cape Peninsula and False Bay/MV Aster | blurb=The ''M.V. Aster'' was scuttled in 1997 the Hout Bay of the Cape Peninsula near Cape Town, as a diver-friendly artificial reef. | status=Star | time=Southern summer: Late 2024 or early 2025 | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 12:01, 4 April 2024 (UTC) | comment=We have been featuring the best of [[Diving the Cape Peninsula and False Bay/Dive sites]] articles; the last one in early 2022, which is now past the recommended 24 month cooldown between neighboring destinations. These articles alleviate the shortage of features from Africa, without compromising on quality. | DotMImage=[[File:Diver deploying a DSMB at boiler of Cape Matapan.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 09:46, 21 July 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 14:15, 22 July 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:03, 4 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' as it's a star article. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:58, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' FTT for Jan 2025. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:45, 21 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[El Hierro]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=El Hierro | blurb=The remotest of the Canary Islands is a place to explore forests and volcanic formations and enjoy the relaxed island lifestyle | status=Guide | time=Dec-Apr is probably most popular, though the weather is OK around the year | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:21, 9 July 2024 (UTC) | comment=Given the tremendous popularity of the Canary Islands as a place to escape the winter for Europeans, it's surprising how we've never had any feature from here. Well, maybe it's suitable that the first feature is the least visited island, as OtBP. The article is mostly a translation from the article at de-WV, where many listings lacked descriptions. I've expanded most of them based on what I've found online, though there are still some listings to expand. Aiming for January's or February's OtBP slot. | DotMImage=[[File:Biosphere Reserve Isla de El Hierro 01.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Some work needed''' per comment. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:21, 9 July 2024 (UTC) * '''Comment'''. It concerns me that there are no votes of support and this one is scheduled to go on the main page in a few days. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 15:57, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ::Unfortunately nobody has been interested in commenting on this one. Now I'm off to update the article, it's already been two years since I translated it. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:16, 7 January 2025 (UTC) * So, I've went through the article updating info little by little for the last couple of days, and just finished, so here's a token '''support''' vote. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:49, 10 January 2025 (UTC) *:A couple further comments. First, suggestion that we move the two coffee bars in "Eat" to "Drink" and split the drink section to "Bars" and "Cafes" subheadings. Second, is this a rural area? Rather than a city? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 18:54, 10 January 2025 (UTC) ::Yes it is most definitely a rural area. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:13, 10 January 2025 (UTC) :::I can '''support''' this article as well following the updates. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 19:34, 10 January 2025 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' OtBP for Jan 2025. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:49, 10 January 2025 (UTC) ===[[Medan]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Medan | blurb=A melting pot of cultures, Indonesia's fourth city is off the tourist radar for foreigners, but popular among Indonesians especially for its food culture. | status=Guide | time=Jan-Apr is the driest time of the year | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:58, 1 May 2024 (UTC) | comment=We've featured Indonesian destinations quite a few times, but now when I checked all of them are from Java, Bali or Nusa Tenggara. This one would be the first from the bigger islands further north. Could use an update (ie. listings checked up using Google Maps) before it's featured. And it needs pictures in other sections than See! | DotMImage=[[File:Mosque Dome and Minaret in Medan, Sumatra, Indonesia.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:58, 1 May 2024 (UTC) :: Support as User:M.akbar.raf [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Medan&action=history apparently] went through the article in August. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:28, 30 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. The article is good and updated. [[User:M.akbar.raf|M.akbar.raf]] ([[User talk:M.akbar.raf|talk]]) 03:36, 29 July 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination (also looks like most listings have been verified recently).[[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:36, 1 August 2024 (UTC) * {{s}} per nom. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:57, 2 November 2024 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' DotM for Jan 2025. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 06:11, 1 January 2025 (UTC) ==2024== '''December''' ===[[Churches in Antarctica]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Churches in Antarctica | blurb=While you won't be able to visit all Antarctic churches at once, the few churches on the frozen continent highlight how Christianity has truly reached every corner of the globe. | status=Guide | time=sometime during the summer, between October and February. | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 10:43, 2 January 2023 (UTC) | comment=Although I said I'll wait a bit before nominating this, I'll be out next week and there's no harm in nominating this early. As to the article itself, I realise this is a bit of a niche topic and no traveller visits Antarctica for its churches (unless they're a part of a maintenance crew or something alike) and also somewhat overgeneralised, Wikivoyage attracts many armchair travellers and thanks to the excellent work of {{u|Grahamsands}}, this is a good armchair article, in my opinion. | DotMImage=[[File:Iglesia Rusa cercana a Villa Las Estrellas.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 10:43, 2 January 2023 (UTC) : '''Comment:''' We have plenty of travel topics nominated, and the travel topics have potential for new articles, with itineraries, and thematic articles such as these. Shall we allow geographic travel topics to run as DoTM and OtBP? /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 14:38, 2 January 2023 (UTC) ::If the alternative is to run a destination article that hasn't been updated since before the pandemic, I think such flexibility is preferable. Otherwise, probably not. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:47, 20 January 2023 (UTC) ::I'd be open to featuring this in Off the beaten path, because it doesn't get much more OtBP than this. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 02:55, 20 January 2023 (UTC) ===[[Yarrangobilly Caves]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Yarrangobilly Caves | blurb=Nestled deep in Australia's Snowy Mountains, Yarrangobilly features not just caves, but thermal pools and great hikes as well. | status=Guide | time=Any time | nominatedBy=[[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 00:18, 3 April 2024 (UTC) | comment=It's been several years since we had an Australian OTBP, and both the caves and the pool are nice all year round. I intentionally chose a non-cave pic to give a better feel for the area, but open to alternatives. | DotMImage=[[File:Yarrangobilly Caves thermal pools.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *'''Almost''' – as the person who started and wrote much of the article, thanks for the nomination! I might add some geolines to it (am familiar with the trails), but I can't see anything much missing from when I was there. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 07:29, 3 April 2024 (UTC) :* Thanks for adding the paths! Could you annotate them as well, maybe in the mapframe description? [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 00:31, 4 April 2024 (UTC) :*:{{done}}, though in the listings instead. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 01:30, 4 April 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' if you guys think it's good to go (I've scheduled it for December). --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:06, 20 September 2024 (UTC) ===[[Manama]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Manama | blurb=Bahrain's capital is a great introduction to the Middle East with a huge mosque, a souq, a world heritage listed fort and an archaeological site at its outskirts. | status=Guide | time=Dec-Mar | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:58, 1 May 2024 (UTC) | comment=There's been a while since we featured something from the Gulf states. All listings have geocoordinates, and recently expanded the Understand and See section. Needs a bit of expansion still, maybe..? And before it's featured, as always, we need to check that all the listed places are still in business. | DotMImage=[[File:Bahrain Fort 3.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:58, 1 May 2024 (UTC) :: {{done}} + Support [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:26, 30 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' oer nomination. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 12:54, 10 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Close''' – lastedit fields missing in a good amount of the listings, other than that, looks good. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:43, 2 November 2024 (UTC) * '''Comment''' I linked the By plane in Muharraq for the airport, but the onward transportation info should be in [[Manama#By plane]]. I assume it is easy to find transport, but it would be nice to tell whether there is good public transport (airport shuttles or otherwise) or whether you should take a taxi ([[Manama#By taxi]] has info on the taxi fare). –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 10:33, 12 November 2024 (UTC) ::Hey, good point! [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:54, 28 November 2024 (UTC) '''November''' ===[[Western food in Asia]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Western food in Asia | blurb=What's a Maharaja Mac, Shanghai-style borscht or "soy sauce Western food"? Check out this article for an unusual culinary tour around Asia! | status=Guide | time=Any | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:56, 1 April 2024 (UTC) | comment=I guess it's good to run as it is, though if there's something important missing, feel free to add it. | DotMImage=[[File:TPK-style chicken wings in Swiss sauce at TPK Tsim Sha Tsui (20181012120848).jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' per nomination. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:56, 1 April 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Excellent and surprisingly comprehensive. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 00:37, 3 April 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 03:14, 3 April 2024 (UTC) * {{s}} Definitely an excellent article for what is otherwise a niche topic, at least in the Anglosphere. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 06:55, 3 April 2024 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' FTT for Nov 2024. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:43, 21 November 2024 (UTC) ===[[Presidente Prudente]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Presidente Prudente | blurb=Named after a president, this regional town has plenty of green spaces and interesting events around the year | status=Guide | time=Spring or autumn probably | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:56, 1 April 2024 (UTC) | comment=We've never featured anything from Brazil as OtBP, so let's fix that. Speaking of fixing, there are some minor things to fix in the article. It's always nice with photos, but they need to be spread out more evenly and possibly some of them deleted. Some listings, especially in Drink, lack descriptions. Luckily there are the websites of the places listed, so it should be easy to get a picture of the place and write a short description. Finally the long list of Wi-Fi hotspots could perhaps be deleted. | DotMImage=[[File:Fundador e Catedral.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' per nomination. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:56, 1 April 2024 (UTC) * Fixes {{done}} & support, so now it goes on the main page. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:39, 11 November 2024 (UTC) ===[[Perth]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Perth | blurb=Maybe the most isolated world city still has a cosmopolitan vibe and features beaches, wineries and as well as cute quokkas on Rottnest Island | status=Guide | time=Spring or autumn | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:56, 1 April 2024 (UTC) | comment=It's been a while since our last WA feature, so why not head to the by far largest city there? Most parts of the articles look OK but See would need to be expanded, some sections could use photos and it wouldn't hurt to check through the listings in the districts. I'd imagine the article would be featured in November or so, so there's no rush. | DotMImage=[[File:Perth, Australia (50211014161).jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' per nomination. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:56, 1 April 2024 (UTC) ::I haven't had the chance to properly read through the article, but it might be a good idea to solicit the opinion of {{ping|Graham87}}, who has previously lived in Perth. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 09:37, 2 April 2024 (UTC) :::I'd prefer not to deal with this, honestly, unless there are very specific questions that require local input. I don't know Perth that well from the average traveller's perspective, especially these days. [[User:Graham87|Graham87]] ([[User talk:Graham87|talk]]) 11:59, 2 April 2024 (UTC) ::::That's fair enough. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 08:37, 3 April 2024 (UTC) ::One other thing I noticed is that the static maps look horrendous (no offense, sorry). I can't tell which goes where, with several major freeways like the Tonkin Hwy missing. I can't do much since I've never been to Perth, though. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 03:39, 4 April 2024 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' DotM for Nov 2024. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:28, 1 November 2024 (UTC) '''October''' ===[[Ohlone Wilderness Trail]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Ohlone Wilderness Trail | blurb=The wilderness outside San Francisco offers some serious hiking with beautiful views | status=Guide | time=Spring or fall per [[Ohlone Wilderness Trail#Climate]] | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:46, 27 January 2024 (UTC) | comment=...and yet another topic I've been thinking about nominating for quite some time. If there's something important missing, I think [[User:SelfieCity|SelfieCity]] who's written most of the article can add it. | DotMImage=[[File:Ohlone wilderness trail - sunol - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:46, 27 January 2024 (UTC) * '''Neutral''' lacks a mapline/geoline which has become somewhat standard for featured articles albeit unwritten. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 08:09, 5 February 2024 (UTC) * '''Comment''': Sorry I didn't respond to this one earlier. I wrote this article some time ago, and before featuring it, I would like to reread it and proofread it. I would note that my knowledge of the route is limited as although I've hiked some parts of the route, I have never hiked its entirety. I will get to reviewing these things as soon as I can. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 01:25, 12 February 2024 (UTC) *:{{re|SelfieCity}} By any chance, if you get the time, could you also add a geoline using [https://geojson.io/#map=10.53/36.9127/30.6472 geojson.io]? There's a little (somewhat wordy) tutorial [[WV:Lines|here]]. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 07:02, 12 February 2024 (UTC) *::Hello, I will take a look at this, although I have to say this would be the first time I would try geojson. I don't think I have time currently, but in a couple months I should have time to create the mapline. It's definitely a helpful resource for an itinerary, so I agree it would be great to have. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:41, 13 February 2024 (UTC) *:::Worst case scenario, you can draw the route geojson.io and paste the code on [[User:SHB2000/Ohlone Wilderness Trail]] (yes, in my userspace) and I'll handle it from there. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 20:18, 13 February 2024 (UTC) ::::Actually, I just discovered that the dynamic map already contains the trail, it appears on the dynamic map when you open its menu (in the upper right corner) and tick the "Hiking" box. Is there some way to have it displayed on the map by default, that'd probably be faster than drawing/coding the trail from scratch? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 10:54, 18 February 2024 (UTC) * My understanding is that geolines have never been a requirement for featuring. However, I agree that they make hiking itinerary articles better, so I have connected the relevant Wikidata item with OpenStreetMap and added a mapshape template to the article. Assuming I've done it correctly, once everything has had a chance to sync we should hopefully see the geoline in the article's map. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 15:33, 2 April 2024 (UTC) *:Thanks. That's more time-effective than drawing it from scratch and hosting it locally. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 07:07, 3 April 2024 (UTC) * I would want some more information about what you can expect from the campsites and whether there are some facilities along the route. If this is clear for locals, the info should go into some hiking/park travel topic, and that article should be referenced for the info. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 20:10, 2 April 2024 (UTC) *:I agree more information is needed about the campsites. Do they have potable water? Non-potable water? Toilets of any kind? Are campfires allowed? If so, are there permanent firepits, and is there a feasible way to obtain firewood? Which ones require reservations, and how can they be reserved? Maybe [[User:SelfieCity|SelfieCity]] can help clarify. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 04:44, 3 April 2024 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' FTT for Oct 2024. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> ===[[La Tremblade]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=La Tremblade | blurb=Do you like surfing and oysters? Then, then this Charente-Maritime town facing the Atlantic definitely is for you! | status=Guide | time=Apr-Oct, mid-summer might be quite hot though | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:56, 1 April 2024 (UTC) | comment=Translated from a Star article on French WV about year ago, so it should be fairly up to date despite what the timestamps say. | DotMImage=[[File:Ronce-les-Bains (2).JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' per nomination. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:56, 1 April 2024 (UTC) ===[[Yerevan]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Yerevan | blurb=Cascades, fountains and grand buildings await you in the Armenian capital | status=Guide | time=Apr-May, Sep-Oct. October for Yerevan Birthday? | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:56, 1 April 2024 (UTC) | comment=I recently upgraded the status to guide (somehow I remember it already was at guide status at some point, maybe it's another article downgraded for no apparent reason?) as it's really extensive. Sometime closer to when it's featured we need to check that places we've listed still exist, and that prices aren't too much off. Part of the lead section could be moved to Understand. | DotMImage=[[File:Cascade of Yerevan.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Very close''' per nomination. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:56, 1 April 2024 (UTC) * '''Close''' per above. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 20:38, 1 April 2024 (UTC) * So, I've made the updates, took longer than expected but now we can update the DotM. Would be great if we someday again would have several people actively developing the DotM articles like, say, ten years ago. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:27, 1 October 2024 (UTC) '''September''' ===[[Flight baggage]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Flight baggage | blurb=There are many things to take into consideration when packing for a flight - check out our guide for useful advice! | status=Guide | time=Anytime | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:41, 14 December 2023 (UTC) | comment=A look at [[Previous Featured travel topics]] reveals we don't very often run articles that aren't bound to a specific geographical location. But here's one. I think everything relevant is included. | DotMImage=[[File:Luggage compartments Airbus.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:41, 14 December 2023 (UTC) * '''Needs work'''. There is redundancy, dead links and some details that should go into By air sections in country articles. Some of these latter might be left as examples, but then worded as such, with hints on generalisability. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:53, 5 February 2024 (UTC) *'''Needs work''' per LPfi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 08:08, 5 February 2024 (UTC) * '''Comment''' the article has been edited a few times since nomination and I now shuffled the information around a little bit to hopefully make it more readable. It's hard, though, as this topic can't be strictly chopped up into distinct parts. I also removed some national references, but again, many of them serve as good examples can be useful even if you're not going to this particular country. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:53, 20 September 2024 (UTC) ===[[Minot]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Minot | blurb=This air force and rail town is also – at least heritage-wise – a piece of Scandinavia on the Great Plains. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep (Sep for the Norwegian Autumn Festival in early October) | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:41, 14 December 2023 (UTC) | comment=A tidy article, however many coordinates are missing, there's room for a couple more images, and this article too needs to be checked for up-to-date-ness a bit before featuring. | DotMImage=[[File:Minotwide.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Close''' per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:41, 14 December 2023 (UTC) * '''Support''' - I went through the listings little by little in May and June, as you can see in the article history. So now the article is OK to run. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 07:44, 11 August 2024 (UTC) ===[[Košice]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Košice | blurb=Slovakia's second city is a bit off the tourist radar, still with a great deal of historical sites, scenic outdoors and interesting events to enjoy | status=Guide | time=May-Sep | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:41, 14 December 2023 (UTC) | comment=This would be our first ever Slovakian feature. It's translated from a Star article in French WV which is why the article is extensive and tidy. While many listings have an older date, I did run everything through Google Maps when translating (it's pointless translating outdated stuff) so they are up to date as of January 2023. However, as this would go on the Main Page probably in September 2024 it's closer to two than one year after the translation, so listings could be checked again for up-to-date-ness a little before we run it. | DotMImage=[[File:Cathedral of St. Elizabeth in Košice.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:41, 14 December 2023 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nom. Would be great to finally have our first Slovakian feature! --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 22:11, 21 February 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nom. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 15:15, 21 June 2024 (UTC) '''August''' ===[[Voyages of James Cook]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Voyages of James Cook | blurb=Follow the steps of one of the most famous British explorers around the world! | status=Guide | time=Anytime | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:46, 2 September 2023 (UTC) | comment=We have several "Voyages of..." articles at guide status, so why not start nominating one of them for FTT? | DotMImage=[[File:Captainjamescookportrait.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. As this article is about several journeys, unlike the [[Magellan-Elcano circumnavigation]] which was about just one, I don't think it's necessary to rewrite it as an itinerary, it's good as it is. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:46, 2 September 2023 (UTC) : '''Comment:''' We tend to look for major anniversaries for historical articles. Cook's second voyage was made from 1772 to 1775, which is 250 years ago. Not sure whether there will be any public events to attend, however. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 13:38, 3 September 2023 (UTC) * <s>'''Put on hold?''' - This is a clean article with guide status, entirely written by established Wikivoyagers so I went ahead and nominated it for FTT some time ago. Now I'm scanning Commons for banner material for March's and April's featured articles, and looked more closely at the article to see which exact destinations the article is about. At that, I noticed that there are no POIs from New Zealand (see also [[Talk:Voyages of James Cook]]), and that part of the world is too important not to include. There are Mt Cook and the Cook strait but there must also be quite a few monuments of him, but the question is which of them are the most notable and should be included in the article? --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:20, 31 January 2024 (UTC) </s> *:I have added some NZ POIs and listings for the two replica Endeavour's which are afloat (UK and Australia). There are now three NZ listings - two are of the beaten track and one is a more central statue, but I am not sure if it is the most notable memorial. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:46, 11 February 2024 (UTC) :::Thanks, and I also added the Cook strait and mountain. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 09:28, 21 April 2024 (UTC) * '''Slush?''' The article is not good to go. It has no yes votes, and has not improved nearly 5 months past nomination. We should consider slushing. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 16:32, 31 January 2024 (UTC) : Let's wait for a week or two, I just brought the issues to light and there's a good chance that we have editors familiar with Cook and NZ who can help. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 16:41, 31 January 2024 (UTC) *'''Support''' I think it is now in reasonable shape, although more could be done. We should also check that the places listed in the article are mentioned in the city articles which are linked in the listings. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 23:21, 11 February 2024 (UTC) ===[[Ath]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Ath | blurb=First established as a medieval dungeon, buildings from many eras and styles can be seen in Ath. | status=Guide | time=May-Sep. The Ducasse d'Ath festival takes place in late August | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:37, 29 September 2023 (UTC) | comment=Even if there are several European DotMs and FTTs nominated for next summer, we have no OtBP candidate from Europe. How about featuring one of the articles I translated a few months ago, Ath would be the first Belgian OtBP? Yes, the lastedit dates in the article are from earlier years, but just because I use the wikicode editor and was too lazy to change those one by one. All listings that are there are up to date as of February 2023. | DotMImage=[[File:Ath, straatzicht Grand Place poging2 foto4 2013-05-08 14.34.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' - pending minor fixes, mainly those dates. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:37, 29 September 2023 (UTC) *'''Almost''' – per above. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 07:12, 30 September 2023 (UTC) *'''Comment''' — oops, I edited timestamps according to the above, but setting the year to 2024 instead of 2023, now corrected. That means that they need to be checked before the feature in August. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:18, 14 July 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' with the fixes done. Interestingly, pretty much everything that was in business a year and a half ago is still. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:18, 9 August 2024 (UTC) ===[[Windsor (Ontario)]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Windsor (Ontario) | blurb=Much more than just "South Detroit", the multicultural southernmost city of Canada features many outdoor activities, and a rich culture life | status=Guide | time=May-Sep, "The late summer is the best time to visit the city" | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:41, 14 December 2023 (UTC) | comment=A combination we haven't had for a while is a large North American city featured during the summer. According to the article history, the article has been edited frequently in 2023, still it could be useful to go through the listings and check that everything listed is still in business/operational a couple of months before we feature it. Some listings also have no descriptions at all, especially in the Cope section. | DotMImage=[[File:Underground Railroad Monument - Windsor, Ontario.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Some work needed''' per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:41, 14 December 2023 (UTC) * '''Needs work''' per your comment. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 22:11, 21 February 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' basically - update done, ie. deleting of closed places + adding of descriptions for the most important sections. Still need to update the dates in the listings and try to write something in the Cope listings... --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:19, 23 July 2024 (UTC) '''July''' ===[[Right to access in the Nordic countries]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Right to access in the Nordic countries | blurb=There's a lot of nature to explore in the Nordic countries, and most of it for free | status=Guide | time=Summer probably, though you can enjoy nature here around the year | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:41, 14 December 2023 (UTC) | comment=Yet another complete guide article I've thought about nominating for quite some time. We already have one Nordic FTT article next summer ([[E8 through Finland and Norway]]). But as there are no other Nordic articles (DotM/OtBPs) nominated and this is about nature while the other is about a road and towns, I think there's space for this one too. We ran the closely related [[Hiking in the Nordic countries]] in August 2015, so there will be about 9 years between them. | DotMImage=[[File:Gällstaöeken dec 2011h.jpg|thumb|300px]]. }} * '''Support''' as nominator. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:41, 14 December 2023 (UTC) *{{s}} Quite different from most travel topics we have. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 02:44, 30 December 2023 (UTC) * '''Support'''. I think the article covers most relevant issues and it may be eye-opening for people from countries where the tradition is different (such as England and the USA). However, I'd like to hear from travellers not familiar with the concept: is there something that should be clarified? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:59, 12 February 2024 (UTC) *:: [edit conflict] The time slot in July is nice, as it's in the berry and mushroom season (which will continue through September) and also a common vacation time in Europe, with good hiking weather locally. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:30, 12 February 2024 (UTC) *:As an outsider, I've found this concept pretty easy to understand when I visited Norway a few years back (and should find it relatively easy when I visit Iceland and Finland next year), but that's also because it's a bit more lax here than it is in the UK or US and accidentally trespassing won't get you into much issues (unlike some places where you can legally be shot). --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 09:05, 12 February 2024 (UTC) *::(and as a side note, I so wish this concept applied everywhere instead of just the Nordics) --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 09:42, 12 February 2024 (UTC) *'''Support'''. As Scotland has more recently introduced some broadly similar rights with the ''Outdoor Access Code'' about 20 years ago, I found the article easy to understand and got a good grip also on what is different. I would like to see some links to definitive advice on access - government websites or possibly walking clubs etc. It would also be good to know who is responsible for enforcing these rights - to who do I report the farmer shouting "get off my land!". [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 21:50, 12 February 2024 (UTC) *:There is no definite advice, as these right aren't codified in law (other than as a side effect of other legislation). Government websites, walking clubs etc. do give advice, but they are not "[[Wikivoyage:External links|official sites/primary sources]]" on the issue, so whatever they say should instead be included in our article, to the extent we see it as important. *:For the same reason nobody is enforcing those rights. If a farmer tells you to get off some specific part of their land, you should comply, as they probably have good reason. On the other hand, if you don't and they threaten you, then you can take them to court for illegal threats, or they could take you to court for causing damage to their crop. *:It seems this aspect of the rights should be explained more clearly in the article. One thing that I see difficult to convey, is how well this works in practice, through nearly everybody's respect for the rights, and most people behaving. There is little reason for a landowner to patrol their forest in hunt of hikers. This can be seen in court cases being very rare – no hikers or berry pickers try to test the limits. *:–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:26, 13 February 2024 (UTC) *:: Did [[Special:Diff/4825742/4826282|this]] help? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:37, 13 February 2024 (UTC) *:::Thanks that helps. The question on enforcement came because the Scottish code has been challenged by landowners, although the traditional access that it was codifying rarely was. As this is a topic touching on legal areas, I think we should either have a strong disclaimer in the lede ("consult a lawyer for advice"), or link to other sites which give similar advice. For example, these tourist office pages appear to support what we are saying: [https://visitsweden.com/what-to-do/nature-outdoors/nature/sustainable-and-rural-tourism/the-right-of-public-access/ Visit Sweden], [https://www.visitnorway.com/plan-your-trip/travel-tips-a-z/right-of-access/ Visit Norway] and [https://www.visitfinland.com/en/articles/finnish-everyman-rights-the-right-to-roam/ Visit Finland]. This helps to protect WV and editors from being sued if something is wrong. It also helps readers unfamiliar with the ideas to see them expressed in different words elsewhere. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:12, 13 February 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. This is an excellent travel topic! Excellent to see support for this nomination from locals as well. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:39, 13 February 2024 (UTC) ===[[Mount Buller]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Mount Buller | blurb=One of Victoria's prime ski resorts holds an alpine charm: it's where snowy peaks meet a wide variety of ski slopes, and is just a 3–4-hour drive from Melbourne. | status=Guide | time=Southern winter for the ski season | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 10:17, 7 July 2023 (UTC) | comment=We've never featured a ski resort from the Southern Hemisphere, but this article received a fresh rewrite from {{u|JML1148}}. This region of Australia has only ever had one feature before ([[Mount Kosciuszko summit trails]]), but I guess there are only so many places in the [[Australian Alps]]. | DotMImage=[[File:Mt Buller village Stevage.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *{{s}} per nom. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 10:17, 7 July 2023 (UTC) *'''Comment''' That was faster than I expected. I've been working on this one for some time, and I plan to continue to work on it. Please ping me if you have any suggestions for the page. One thing is that the image shown is somewhat outdated: Spurs has received a renovation, and Horse Hill is now called Northside Express. Perhaps [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mt_Buller_village_Stevage.jpg this image] would be better? [[User:JML1148|JML1148]] ([[User talk:JML1148|talk]]) 10:26, 7 July 2023 (UTC) ::I've replaced the image with [[c:File:Mt Buller village Stevage.jpg]] as suggested – it's only a placeholder image, though – we choose different images for banners closer to when an article is scheduled to be featured (roughly 2–3 months). Please keep working on it – nominations usually sit here for many months and articles don't need to be perfect at the time of nomination (also hence my speedy nomination). --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 10:30, 7 July 2023 (UTC) * '''Support'''. This is head and shoulders above our other Australian ski destination articles. [[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 10:31, 18 February 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 12:57, 10 May 2024 (UTC) ===[[Glacier National Park (Montana)]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Glacier National Park | blurb=Gorgeous mountain views, an interesting geological history and almost unchanged ecosystems with good chances to encounter wildlife from grizzlies to mountain goats - what more could an outdoor enthusiast ask for? | status=Guide | time=Summer | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:37, 29 September 2023 (UTC) | comment=We've featured a lot of European DotMs this summer, and that is at least partially because we didn't run any DotM from the other big Northern summer region - North America. So for next summer, here comes another article I've been looking at for quite a while. Many coordinates are missing, but other than that the article looks complete. | DotMImage=[[File:Mountain Goat in Glacier National Park.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Close''' per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:37, 29 September 2023 (UTC) * '''Neutral''' – we've kind of set a precedent with [[Tombstone Territorial Park]] for trying to include not only coordinates, but also geolines, for hiking trails on park articles. I might have set my bar too high, but it feels a step backwards to feature a park article without geolines. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 07:11, 30 September 2023 (UTC) *:{{ping|SHB2000}} To be honest, I think that may be an unrealistic standard. Geolines for hiking routes remain the exception rather than the rule on this site. I'm not sure I've seen them in any North American articles. I do think it would be good to have more of them, though – do you have recommendations for how to go about adding them? I've only managed to do that in articles like [[Inca Trail]] where the geoline comes from OpenStreetMap via Wikidata. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 04:16, 14 December 2023 (UTC) *::I tried to get the main trail of [[Urho Kekkonen National Park]] from OSM, but there were a million variants, all of them only short fragments: useful in an orienteering map, but not in an overview map. That means they have to be drawn by hand at geojson.io. Very much doable, but you need to think about how much detail is needed, and they probably should be in the Commons' data namespace rather than in the article, and there is little guidance on that. Some guidance on whether to add information other than the route proper – such as where it follows a road, where it is a footpath, where it is just a line drawn in sand (or through the swamp) – would also be nice. Do we have a standard? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:48, 14 December 2023 (UTC) *::Hi, {{u|Mx. Granger}}, sorry for the late response. My main recommendation for adding them would be to use [https://geojson.io/#map=15.14/-44.162398/169.276318 geojson.io] and adding the json code into the article. I wrote a tutorial a while back on [[User:SHB2000/Getting a line on an itinerary]], though it's a little out of date. See my last few edits on [[Mount Aspiring National Park]] for how I've done it for the Blue Pools Track. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 22:18, 26 December 2023 (UTC) *:::Thanks, that's useful information. For hiking itinerary articles, I could possibly see making this a requirement for guide status, but for park articles, I think it seems too tedious to require for guide status or featuring. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 23:45, 26 December 2023 (UTC) *::::Yeah, I could also possibly see this as a requirement for star articles. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 01:16, 27 December 2023 (UTC) * '''Support''' - missing coordinates added, fees updated etc. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:47, 16 May 2024 (UTC) '''June''' ===[[Land Art Trail on Mount Učka]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Land Art Trail on Mount Učka | blurb=A mountain at the Adriatic Sea has become an outdoor art gallery. | status=Guide | time=Weather is probably best in May-June or September-October | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 16:49, 5 December 2021 (UTC) | comment=We have had very few features from the Balkans, and none from Croatia. Outdoor attractions can be more compatible with the pandemic. | DotMImage=[[File:Signpost on Land Art Trail - Invitation.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' LGTM. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 11:06, 17 December 2021 (UTC) : '''Scheduled''' provisionally in Oct/Nov 2022. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 21:31, 21 December 2021 (UTC) * '''Support''' as one of our quirkier and well-planned itinerary articles. I noticed this article some time ago and remember it being well-written and organized. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 00:15, 2 January 2022 (UTC) *'''Comment''': I didn't feel up to reading all the way through the article, but am I the only one who finds the "Understand" section overly preachy? I did [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Land_Art_Trail_on_Mt._U%C4%8Dka&type=revision&diff=4359917&oldid=4339917 edit it] somewhat - the use of "man" and male pronouns for humanity is very old-fashioned and kind of jarring, at least for many Americans - but just how much do we need to push an idea of how to experience that trail? My feeling is that we definitely should state what the author's intention is, but we can then let people experience it however they do and go on to practical descriptions and advice on how to get from Point A to Point B, etc. I'll try posting a briefer alternative version of that section on the article's talk page later. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:08, 3 January 2022 (UTC) ::[https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Talk%3ALand_Art_Trail_on_Mt._U%C4%8Dka&type=revision&diff=4359932&oldid=3293582 Done]. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:20, 3 January 2022 (UTC) :::Also, having just recently discussed about images in [[Talk:Canadian national parks]], are the galleries a violation of the image policy? Per [[Wikivoyage:Image policy#Montages and galleries]], "should only be considered for showing multiple examples of a specific topic (for example, in describing flora and fauna or cuisine – but not attractions). Image galleries should not be used solely as a way to include a large number of different pictures in a destination article". This isn't a destination article, but it is depicting attractions. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 08:08, 19 March 2022 (UTC) ::::I'd say the composite image at the top definitely violates the prohibition against montages and should be removed. Some of the galleries, such as the one that shows two views of the same spiral geograph, are not needed. Most of the rest seem OK to me, since this is not a destination article, as you said, but an itinerary in which it may be necessary to recognize every artwork. The Sentinel picture is problematic per [[WV:Image policy#People in photos]], though. I'm not sure we should do anything about that. "Land Art Trail on Mt. Učka in winter" doesn't need a gallery; one image could do it. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:09, 19 March 2022 (UTC) :::::Okay, anyway we have about 7 months left to fix this up so nothing urgent, but we can't feature an article that blatantly violates [[WV:IP]] though. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 00:00, 28 March 2022 (UTC) ::::::I made a [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Land_Art_Trail_on_Mt._U%C4%8Dka&type=revision&diff=4418443&oldid=4416596 few] [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Land_Art_Trail_on_Mt._U%C4%8Dka&type=revision&diff=4416141&oldid=4412415 edits] in the last few days, but we should make decisions about whether it's appropriate for this article to violate [[Wikivoyage:Image policy#Minimal use of images]]. I think that the density of images and the galleries still violate those guidelines, and while that might be OK as an exception, featuring this article carries strong risks that readers will believe this is exemplary in that respect and copy it in ordinary destination articles. Are the descriptions of the artworks clear enough that we can reduce the number of images to a more limited selection that excludes some of the works, eliminating the galleries with the possible exception of "Signposts and markings on the Land Art Trail" and creating 3 times more space on the right margin between most images, as we would be likely to do in any other article? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:36, 28 March 2022 (UTC) :::::::Yeah, we should take extra care that featured articles as many new users look up to them to see how they're meant to be formatted and usually think that format is okay. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 22:23, 28 March 2022 (UTC) :::::::: I'd assume the trail markings are enough to find the artworks, and they seem to be named on the map, so I think the images are needed more for telling the reader what to expect than for use on the trail. For that it is enough to have examples, and perhaps a few that give examples on how you can "use" the artwork. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 10:00, 29 March 2022 (UTC) :::::::::It sounds like you guys are agreeable with removing the rest of the galleries and having only single thumbnails; is that correct? If so, let's make the changes. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 08:42, 4 April 2022 (UTC) ::::::::::Yes, go ahead. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 22:50, 7 April 2022 (UTC) :::::::::::I just removed the remainder of the galleries, other than the one with markings and signposts, which might be OK. The article still might violate [[Wikivoyage:Image policy#Minimal use of images]], though. What do you all think? Should we delete half the remaining images? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 06:18, 28 June 2022 (UTC) ::::::::::::There are still way too many images and I feel very skeptical of featuring an article that's a blatant violation of a simple Wikivoyage policy. Leaving the images may also encourage new editors to well, add a whole slew of galleries because a featured article contained them. Feel free to delete half the remaining images. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 23:21, 28 June 2022 (UTC) :::::::::::::How is it now? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:24, 29 June 2022 (UTC) ::::::::::::::Looking much better! However, I think the signposts/markings gallery should also go too. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 02:25, 29 June 2022 (UTC) :::::::::::::::Let's talk about that. From [[Wikivoyage:Image policy]]: "Image galleries are discouraged, and should only be considered for showing multiple examples of a specific topic (for example, in describing flora and fauna or cuisine – but not attractions)." How does that apply to signposts/markings? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:40, 29 June 2022 (UTC) ::::::::::::::::I thought the reason why we discouraged such galleries was because these chew up data and are slow to load, especially in places with poor reception. The reason why I'm okay with these in cuisine articles is because nobody prints these out, and many will read these articles before they're going to that destination (e.g. if I'm going to say Franconia, I would read [[Franconian cuisine]] before leaving to Franconia, but I wouldn't print it out, nor would I want to read it in Franconia) ::::::::::::::::Also, from experience last Saturday (18 June), just the map in [[Telangana]] took at least 10 seconds to load while I was on the road with poor 4G signal. If that one image took so long to load, then how long do you think it'll take for the gallery to load? <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 03:09, 29 June 2022 (UTC) :::::::::::::::::I was thinking of it as a matter of style, and I see your point. So maybe select 1 or 2 of the best images from that bunch to use as thumbnails, possibly deleting another one in the process. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 03:24, 29 June 2022 (UTC) : '''On hold''' until issues are settled. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 09:39, 30 August 2022 (UTC) ::'''Slush?''' This nomination has quietly been sitting since June. The last remaining gallery issue will likely remain unsolved as the reasons for keeping the gallery equal the reasons for removing it. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 07:08, 4 November 2022 (UTC) :::I feel like the number of images are OK now. However, I would not object to someone selecting one or two photos from that gallery and deleting the gallery, and I don't think anyone else will object. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 22:27, 4 November 2022 (UTC) :::: I removed the gallery and kept two images. With my browser window width (which seems to be the minimum for the pagebanner menu to work), there is now one to three images per screenful, likewise [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Land_Art_Trail_on_Mount_U%C4%8Dka?useskin=vector-2022 with Vector-2022] (the to-be (?) default skin) and maximised window. With maximised window and Monobook, there are still a bit too many images at the start of Walk, but I don't think that's a major issue. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:46, 5 November 2022 (UTC) :::::I moved one image up for slightly better spacing. What are people thinking of this article now; should we run it? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 16:19, 5 November 2022 (UTC) * '''Support''' --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 11:17, 14 January 2023 (UTC) * '''Support''' [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 23:03, 11 February 2024 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' FTT for June 2024. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:47, 21 June 2024 (UTC) ===[[North West River]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=North West River | blurb=Visit Central Labrador's oldest European settlement and the northeasternmost town on the North American road network for some lakeside scenery and to learn about the culture of the Innu, Inuit, Metis and the European settlers of Labrador. | status=Guide | time=Northern summer for weather | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 10:07, 17 April 2023 (UTC) | comment=I realise this is my third nomination of the day, but here's a article from Atlantic Canada for next summer. I started it today, branching it off [[Happy Valley-Goose Bay]] (which was on my radar), and have managed to get it to guide status, though it will need some updates closer to its feature. Labrador has also been historically underfeatured, and we've never had an individual settlement from N&L featured. | DotMImage=[[File:Sunset littlelake.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Close''' per my comment. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 10:07, 17 April 2023 (UTC) * '''Support''' - it would be nice to have some more photos, but the [[:c:Category:North West River|Commons category]] doesn't have much. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:24, 21 December 2023 (UTC) ===[[Bonn]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Bonn | blurb=Founded by the Romans, the former West German capital was also the home of Beethoven and its lively streets has given it the nickname "Italy's most northern city ". | status=Guide | time=May-Sep weather-wise | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) | comment=For the most part a good looking article that has been on my radar for years, but there has always been some other article from Germany nominated. The article has been worked on by a user in the last years, and the first 2/3 of the article does look good. However many Eat listings need descriptions, and some Drink listings need coordinates. | DotMImage=[[File:Bonn-Bundesviertel, Luftaufnahme 2010.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Close''' per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:37, 29 September 2023 (UTC) * '''Support''' (updates & fixes made) --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:43, 15 May 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' (per nom), excellent quality article. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 20:01, 20 May 2024 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' DotM for June 2024. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:22, 1 June 2024 (UTC) '''May''' ===[[E8 through Finland and Norway]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Destination | blurb=From Turku to Tromsø, '''[[E8 through Finland and Norway|European route E8]]''' passes through various types of Finnish and Norwegian landscapes. | status=Guide | time=May to June for the Midnight Sun, or April to August | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 10:22, 20 October 2021 (UTC) | comment=We don't feature itineraries that much, and this seems a good candidate for sometime next year. | DotMImage=[[File:Skibotndalen, E8.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Comment''': We hopefully have the Archipelago Trail in May–June, and if this is to be featured in (Nordic) summer, to avoid darkness and icy roads, I think it comes too close. Perhaps <s>2022</s> 2023? If for some reason there are problems with the Archipelago Trail this could of course be a backup. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 10:56, 20 October 2021 (UTC) :: I introduced the guideline that a nomination should be intended to feature within the coming 12 months. This is more a requirement for quality, than for available spots. We should preferrably have a backlog of nominated high-quality articles, so we can afford to choose the most suitable article, with regard to factors such as climate, holidays, public events and safety. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 15:03, 26 October 2021 (UTC) ::: May to June would be a great time to feature, for the [[Midnight Sun]]. That would make us wait until 2023, unless we run E8 instead of the Archipelago Trail. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 21:13, 26 October 2021 (UTC) ::::I'd prefer to keep this until 2023, since the Archipelago Trail is more developed than this one. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 06:56, 14 November 2021 (UTC) ::::: I agree, but I take the opportunity to ask: what should be done to improve this article, except developing the listed articles, and perhaps doing some more research on the bus and bike options? –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:37, 15 November 2021 (UTC) ::::::In my opinion, nothing major needs to be done, at least from what I've noticed (more specific to this article), but maybe an infobox or two would be nice, but we've plenty of guide and star articles without them. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 09:59, 15 November 2021 (UTC) ::::::: For May-June 2023 we can also consider [[Swedish Empire]], during the 500th anniversary of Sweden's independence. That article also has several destinations in Finland. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 15:52, 16 November 2021 (UTC) :::::::: Yes. This road isn't going to disappear in the near future, it can be featured any year. If we get somebody writing about the Ostrobothnian destinations before that, it'd be a big bonus. I know them only superficially. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 16:39, 16 November 2021 (UTC) * '''Support.''' The article is great overall, though it should be proofread by a native English speaker for better flow in the language. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 17:39, 22 December 2021 (UTC) * '''Support''', although I'd like more eyes on the article. I notice that the first empty slot is June 2023, which would be ideal. Of the linked places along the route and suggested sidetrips, it seems most are usable and several guides, half a dozen are redlinks and half a dozen outlines. I don't think a traveller needs to stop at destinations without usable articles. The biking option might need to be checked at some point, I just followed the cycleways and roads on the map and tried to judge their usability – but there is an Eurovelo route more or less along this itinerary. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 15:26, 3 October 2022 (UTC) *: If the Swedish Empire is featured in May, this should probably be postponed. Comments on how to improve it are welcome. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:40, 10 October 2022 (UTC) * '''Support''' - I don't find anything to complain about in the article. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 08:42, 21 April 2024 (UTC) ===[[Bethlehem (Pennsylvania)]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Bethlehem (Pennsylvania) | blurb=Named after lyrics in Christmas carols, the town that once was a main steel producer now has a lot of industrial heritage and festivals. | status=Guide | time=Apr-Oct probably | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 21:03, 21 December 2022 (UTC) | comment=We have so many guide articles from the U.S., so let's just nominate one more. [[User:Keystone18|Keystone18]] worked extensively on the article a few months ago so it should be up to date. | DotMImage=[[File:Bethlehem Pennsylvania Main Street.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Very close''' - many listings need coordinates, and some photos in the latter half of the article would be nice. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 21:03, 21 December 2022 (UTC) ::Getting there... everything that's now listed exists, I just deleted the places that have closed. Some sleep listings need descriptions, but I'll try to handle that during the weekend... --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:25, 3 May 2024 (UTC) *'''Close''' per [[User:Ypsilon|your]] comment. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 23:02, 22 December 2022 (UTC) *'''Comment''' I removed this off the schedule from September to prevent two back-to-back features from the same country (3 if you include Aviation history in the United States). How festive is this town during the Christmas–New Year season? --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 12:42, 25 May 2023 (UTC) ===[[Tirana]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Tirana | blurb=Albania's capital is colourful and rapidly modernizing, with cosy cafés and bustling nightlife. | status=Guide | time=Spring or autumn for weather. Not sure about public events. | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 16:02, 28 November 2022 (UTC) | comment=The Balkans are under-featured. Tirana is in a phase of modernization; well-functioning but still very affordable. | DotMImage=[[File:Tirana Downtown from sky tower(66).JPG|thumb|300px]] }} *'''Very close'''. A few restaurants and listings need descriptions and coordinates, but that's about it. Most of the listings date to Oct 2021, so it should be fairly up to date. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 20:24, 28 November 2022 (UTC) * '''Almost''' What SHB2000 said, some coordinates are missing, a couple of listings don't have a description. Some more photos would be nice. I guess the article is reasonably up to date, because I see "as of 2022" here and there. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 05:40, 29 November 2022 (UTC) *There are many undated listings, which means they were added before 2015. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 21:09, 17 January 2023 (UTC) * '''Support''', probably. Yesterday and today I ran all of the listings through Google Maps. Some more photos here and there wouldn't hurt. Also, the detailed bus schedules from 2021 could be deleted... or kept to give the reader an approximate idea of whether they can expect one or ten buses a day from a certain place to Tirana. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:34, 30 April 2024 (UTC) '''April''' ===[[Volcanoes]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Topic | blurb=Found worldwide, both a hazard and an attraction for travellers. | status=Guide | time=Any time | nominatedBy=[[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 15:26, 20 December 2023 (UTC) | comment=Several people have been working on this & it now seems up to scratch. | DotMImage=[[File:Etna Volcano Paroxysmal Eruption July 30 2011 - Creative Commons by gnuckx (3).jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Close''' - the Understand parts look good, for the individual volcanoes I think we could tell readers if it's possible/allowed/safe to get close to it (briefly - the details about individual tour companies, ticket prices and such can be left to the destination articles) or if they can only be seen from a distance. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:50, 2 January 2024 (UTC) ** I checked the ten first listings and I think there is adequate information. We shouldn't include info that varies from one year to the next – that info should go into the main listing – and active volcanos vary in their activity. I assume the extinct volcanos listed can be visited. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 21:43, 2 January 2024 (UTC) * '''Close''' per Ypsi. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 21:49, 2 January 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' - Looks highly useful, and I agree with [[User:LPfi]] that details like whether it is open or not are best left to the destination articles. The listings have a perfect level of detail as is. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 23:20, 2 January 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. {{ping|Ypsilon|SHB2000}} Is there still something important missing or something that should be changed? Some of the descriptions are unnecessarily short, but the article doesn't need to be star to be featured – and of the 100+ listings many are indeed adequate. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 19:37, 2 April 2024 (UTC) *:Nah, it LGTM now. Thanks for helping to improve it! --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 20:35, 2 April 2024 (UTC) :::Well, I guess interested readers will also check out the destination article for information about visiting the volcano of choice and what to expect before going there. So I could as well support the article. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 04:50, 3 April 2024 (UTC) ===[[Hagi]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Hagi | blurb=One of Japan's most beautiful castle towns, of the 17th century castle itself only the moat, walls and garden remain. | status=Guide | time=[[:w:Hagi,_Yamaguchi#Climate|Apr-May and Oct-Nov are reasonably dry and warm]] | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:37, 29 September 2023 (UTC) | comment=Our current OtBP nominees are either already in the schedule or "summer articles", so we need something for April 2024. How about this one, out of our many unfeatured guide articles about Japanese small towns. The fact that it has a static map with POIs reveals that it was written up to guide status before we had dynamic maps, though it has been updated regularly over the years. It could still use an update and some sections could perhaps be expanded. | DotMImage=[[File:Hagi Castle -Honmaru.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Close''' per comment. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:37, 29 September 2023 (UTC) * '''Support''' per nomination. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 21:46, 29 September 2023 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article has recently been updated, and looks good. I spent a night at Hagi Youth Hostel in 2005 and visited the castle, but didn't fully explore the city - I now know what I missed! [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:16, 28 February 2024 (UTC) *{{s}} per Alasdair. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 05:30, 29 February 2024 (UTC) *'''Support''' I've worked to add destinations to the city and to bulk up some of the other sections. I think the article has now doubled in size. If there is anything lacking, please let me know. I'll try to fill in the gaps. [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] ([[User talk:ChubbyWimbus|talk]]) 12:20, 29 February 2024 (UTC) * Excellent work, [[User:ChubbyWimbus|ChubbyWimbus]] and others. '''Support'''. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 13:26, 29 February 2024 (UTC) ===[[Addis Ababa]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Addis Ababa | blurb=Ethiopia's capital is the seat of the African Union, and an important airline hub. | status=Guide | time=October to May to avoid rain. Not sure about public events. | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 10:33, 21 December 2022 (UTC) | comment=We have had few nominees from Africa. This article was [[/Slush pile#Addis Ababa|slushed in 2021]] due to the Tigray War, which seems to be resolved now. | DotMImage=[[File:St. George's Cathedral - Flickr - Dave Proffer (3).jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Comment:''' although the war only ended last month and was over a thousand kilometres from Addis Ababa, I think we should wait till late 2023 to feature this (but we'll probably feature this in late 2023 due to the scheduling anyway). I haven't read the article since I last nominated it, but I can remember it was looking good to go at the time. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 10:54, 21 December 2022 (UTC) * Many of the listings are dated 2017, or are undated, so they are probably even older. I don't think that nominating articles that are out of date is a good use of time. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 23:01, 31 January 2023 (UTC) * There has been peace for almost a year now, and it's not like we've featured African articles too often (especially not DotMs), so how about running this in April 2024? Will try to remember to check the listings some time before that. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:51, 21 September 2023 (UTC) *:The listings and Get in/Get around info are not yet checked and updated, it seems. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 08:00, 26 March 2024 (UTC) :: I've now ran all listed places through Google Maps, and updated the get and around sections as much as possible using the Internet. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:41, 1 April 2024 (UTC) * Neither the article's lead paragraph nor the blurb explain why a reader should want to visit the city. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 17:13, 13 March 2024 (UTC) : {{done}} --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:09, 25 March 2024 (UTC) '''March''' ===[[Culturally significant landscapes in Jaén]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Culturally significant landscapes in Jaén | blurb=There's a lot of history to explore in the mountains of rural Jaén. | status=Guide | time=Spring or autumn perhaps, summer would be unbearably hot and winter maybe a bit chilly | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:54, 13 September 2023 (UTC) | comment=We have a lot of FTT nominees for the summer of 2024 but for each of them there's some reason why it wouldn't fit into March's slot (which will appear in the schedule shortly). I intended to put James Cook there, but I don't know if people are OK with it or we should wait for some anniversary of at one of at some specific date. How about this one, then? I think we've never featured anything other than DotMs from Spain, so this would be the first FTT from there. | DotMImage=[[File:IAPH 70 0130449.tif|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Very close''' - at a quick glance the article looks good apart from some kind of code error halfway down the article. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 18:54, 13 September 2023 (UTC) * [[File:Achtung.png|18px]] '''Needs work'''. I just had a read through this article: it's nice that it describes what's on that route in a detailed manner, but I find the lack of any information on the practical aspects of the route, such as road/rail conditions, getting between the points listed in each section, problematic. If/when this is fixed, I'll potentially support. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 11:35, 14 September 2023 (UTC) : According to [[Culturally_significant_landscapes_in_Jaén#Prepare]] "The route is designed to be done in a private vehicle." and "some of the places indicated in the route may not be accessible by public transport", and in the region there doesn't seem to be too many bus stops neither on Google maps nor Openstreetmap. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:00, 31 January 2024 (UTC) ===[[Iquitos]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Iquitos | blurb=A metropolis in the Peruvian Amazon, with great opportunities for boat safaris. | status=Guide | time=After the Civil unrest in Perú settles down. While the dry season (Apr-Sep) is more comfortable, the wet season (Oct-Mar) is more appealing for wildlife watching. We are short on features for northern winter, and we usually feature Latin American cities for carnival season. | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 01:23, 22 June 2022 (UTC), renominated by [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) after updating in Jan 2023 | comment=We haven't too many South American candidates, and this is an unusual city. Though its size, it can be considered off the beaten path for the difficulty to get there. | DotMImage=[[File:Belen Iquitos Peru.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' following recent updates. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 13:19, 16 January 2023 (UTC) : '''Schedule''' for March? Guanajuato has yet to get any support vote, and the article has some issues. Would anyone else support Iquitos? /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 12:43, 24 January 2023 (UTC) ::I would not support featuring anything from Peru until the civil unrest settles down. March is way too soon, and by how it's going, it seems the protests won't go away anytime in the near future. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 12:46, 24 January 2023 (UTC) ::: English-speaking media no longer mention the unrest in Peru, and [[:wikipedia:Timeline of the 2022–2023 Peruvian protests]] English Wikipedia mentions no incidents for the last two weeks. Could anyone proficient in Spanish make a check-up of the current situation? /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 00:20, 20 March 2023 (UTC) :::: According to my reading of [[:w:es:Convulsión social de Perú de 2022-presente]] it seems the protests calmed down temporarily in middle-February, but there was to be a great march to Lima on 13 March. My Spanish is not that good, but I conclude that the situation is still very volatile. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:23, 20 March 2023 (UTC) ::::: The article now says that the unrest ended in "mid March" (the 24th). –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 11:23, 30 April 2023 (UTC) * '''Support''' [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 17:11, 31 January 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 13:12, 2 March 2024 (UTC) ===[[Tucson]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Tucson | blurb=The "Old Pueblo" features a lot of Spanish colonial and Mexican heritage. | status=Guide | time=Spring or fall (March 2024 maybe?) | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:08, 30 August 2023 (UTC) | comment=The current year is, I think, the first year in a very long time if ever, when we haven't featured a single U.S. destination as DotM (only OtBP and FTT). So let's have one in the early 2024 and maybe one later. The Tucson article is tidy and doesn't lack content or pictures, the only thing is that the article may present the situation a few years ago and as such listings need to be run through Google Maps, dead links fixed and prices updated where applicable. Probably a good time to do this is a month or two before the article is featured rather than half a year earlier. | DotMImage=[[File:Tucson shab2.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Some work needed''' - per my comment. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:08, 30 August 2023 (UTC) * '''Support''' but it needs work right now, most info is 2017 or earlier, eg "Old Tucson" is long gone. Nevertheless a well-constructed page for an interesting destination. March / April is a good time to feature, it was already damned hot when I was last there this May. [[User:Grahamsands|Grahamsands]] ([[User talk:Grahamsands|talk]]) 19:52, 26 September 2023 (UTC) * I just went through the article, and almost everything was still in business/had functioning websites (I think I had to delete just one restaurant), so let's run the article tomorrow. For the Old Tucson part, the article does say that "much of the barrio was destroyed when the Tucson Convention Center was built. " --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:24, 29 February 2024 (UTC) '''February''' ===[[Singapore Changi Airport]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Singapore Changi Airport | blurb='''[[Singapore Changi Airport]]''' just might be the world's best airport: with waterfalls, lush tropical gardens, swimming pools, free cinemas and amazing food, there are few better places to spend your layover. | status=Guide | time=Anytime | nominatedBy=[[User:Jpatokal|Jpatokal]] ([[User talk:Jpatokal|talk]]) 00:33, 20 January 2023 (UTC) | comment=A great article for a great airport. Huge props to {{ping|Othello95}} for adding so much content about Jewel in particular! | DotMImage=[[File:JewelSingaporeVortex1.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *'''Support'''. The article looks very good, and the airport seems amazing! It would be good to bring the article up to star status with a few more good photos and some minor tweaking. I think it's not far from being a star. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 02:46, 20 January 2023 (UTC) *'''Support''', though this article won't be run until late 2024 since we only recently featured [[Singapore/Orchard]]. Can't see anything missing from this (from my own personal experience) but agree that a few more photos would be desirable. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 00:17, 21 January 2023 (UTC) *'''Support'''. Great airport & a fine article. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 02:14, 29 April 2023 (UTC) *'''Support'''. per Pashley. [[User:Veracious|Veracious]] ([[User talk:Veracious|talk]]) 04:18, 11 August 2023 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' FTT for Feb 2024. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 22:02, 21 February 2024 (UTC) ===[[Puerto Morelos]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Puerto Morelos | blurb=More of a residential community than a purpose built tourist destination, from here you can access the sea and jungle alike | status=Guide | time=Winter-early spring is the [[Cancún#Climate|driest time of the year]], and also I think the main tourist season in the Caribbean | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:28, 23 June 2023 (UTC) | comment=We've had a few Mexican features over the years, but only one OtBP and never anything from coastal Mexico - PM will fill these holes. This article has guide status, however most places lack coordinates (and at that we can check what's in business and what's not) and a few more photos. | DotMImage=[[File:Puerto Morelos Lighthouse 2007.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Some work needed''' per comment. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:28, 23 June 2023 (UTC) *'''Needs work''' – [[File:Achtung.png|20px]] missing coordinates, addresses and lastedit fields. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 00:19, 29 June 2023 (UTC) *:I spent a few hours on this article. Cleaned up the English a bit, verified all listings, removed places that were out of business (and added a few new ones to replace them), added coordinates, addresses, and lastedit fields. I think it's looking better. Do you guys see anything else that needs updating? [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 02:51, 18 December 2023 (UTC) ::Great work! One thing to fix are several bullet points in See that are more of activities (swimming, diving etc.) and should be moved to the Do section, in fact those that are already described in the Do section could be deleted. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:42, 2 January 2024 (UTC) :::Good point. I've taken a stab at moving activities from "See" to "Do". Hope it's an improvement! [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:23, 3 January 2024 (UTC) ::::Yeah, now it looks great. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 03:06, 4 January 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' Didn't say it when deleting the "needs fixes" part in the schedule above a few hours ago, but thanks to the recent edits by [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] the article is now most certainly ready to be showcased on the main page in February. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:53, 27 January 2024 (UTC) * '''Support''' The article seems complete to me and I like the town because it is quite UN-commercial compared to neighboring Cancun. (I find the DoTM banner for it to be amusing because I don't recall seeing a picture of their iconic leaning light shown from a perspective that makes it look like its standing upright. Good banner though! [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:20, 28 January 2024 (UTC) ===[[Sucre]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Sucre | blurb=Bolivia's nominal capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a showcase of indigenous and colonial history. | status=Guide | time=October to April to avoid the cold. Carnival in February. | nominatedBy=[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 22:59, 31 May 2022 (UTC) | comment=We have few upcoming features from South America, and we never had a feature from Bolivia (except on The Other Site, back in 2006). The article has the essentials, but could mention more on topics such as the new airport, shopping, and crime. | DotMImage=[[File:Blue Sky, White City - panoramio.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} *'''Almost''' – a few see listings need descriptions, but that is relatively minor and this article can run as it is if it has to. Would love a feature from Bolivia! --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont">[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta.wikimedia]])</small></span> 06:32, 1 June 2022 (UTC) ::The "History" section also needs an update, as it doesn't seem to have been updated since the coup that ousted Evo Morales. I just changed one "is" to "was", but that's not enough. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 23:13, 22 June 2022 (UTC) :::This article seems too good to be slushed, but the nomination hasn't received one support vote during the four months since it was nominated. Should it remain on the schedule? <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 14:13, 1 October 2022 (UTC) ::::This article has remained as is since, and I don't feel too comfortable running it during March when the issues raised by {{u|Ikan Kekek}} have not been fixed. I'm going to remove this off the schedule for the timebeing; feel free to revert me (but please let me know) once the issues have been fixed. In the meantime, I'll look for another article that could fit in the March section. Perhaps [[British Columbia]]? <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 07:19, 12 November 2022 (UTC) * '''Comment''' - Slush or not? I mean, some listings need more descriptions (the same issue as almost a year ago) but overall the article looks tidy and all listings have coordinates. The question is how up to date it is. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 14:24, 16 April 2023 (UTC) * I can '''support''' it now after updating the article, mainly deleting listings of places that don't exist, dead links and those bus prices that were at least 10 years old. The history section which was mentioned above could be expanded if someone wants to, but I don't see it as a requirement. The article is going on the main page next week. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 20:49, 27 January 2024 (UTC) * I would like to '''support''' this nomination. It's quite a good article and an interesting city that many travelers may not be aware of. [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:16, 28 January 2024 (UTC) '''January''' ===[[Chinese phrasebook]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Chinese phrasebook | blurb=If you plan a trip to China or elsewhere where Mandarin is spoken, it's useful to pick up some basic phrases even if Chinese may seem very hard to learn. | status=Guide | time=Anytime | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:47, 22 July 2023 (UTC) | comment=I was thinking about what to put in January's FTT slot, then remembered we usually run a phrasebook around that time of the year and we still have at least a dozen at guide status that we haven't featured. So how about the [[Chinese phrasebook]] this time? We have at least two active wikivoyagers ([[User:廣九直通車]] and [[User:The dog2]]) who know the language and can check the article for any factual errors. Everything is translated, though as always some photos would make the phrasebook more lively. Then, as Chinese is a tonal language, it could be useful to have audio clips like in the [[Portuguese phrasebook]], but I guess they also take some time to create. | DotMImage=[[File:Sign Fragrance.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Close''' - may need more or less work, depending on if we think the audio clips are necessary. [[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:47, 22 July 2023 (UTC) * '''Comment''': If we want audio clips, it's best to get someone from northern China. Although I am fluent, my Singaporean accent comes out very strongly when I speak Mandarin, and Chinese people who are not familiar with the Singaporean accent will usually think I am from Guangdong. It's analogous to how even though my English is fluent, it still has a Singaporean accent and doesn't sound anything like King's English. [[User:The dog2|The dog2]] ([[User talk:The dog2|talk]]) 16:04, 22 July 2023 (UTC) :: '''Comment''': There is some tradition to feature a phrasebook in the beginning of the year. Not sure whether it is rational; we might have fewer destinations suitable for northern winter. We also tend to have destinations relevant for [[Chinese New Year]] for January. In any case, it makes sense to feature this article in January/February. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 20:17, 22 July 2023 (UTC) * '''Support'''. Audio clips would be ideal but I think we can feature without them. I'll try to add some photos in the next couple of weeks, and I've rephrased the blurb slightly for tone. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 00:37, 30 December 2023 (UTC) *{{s}} per Granger. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 02:44, 30 December 2023 (UTC) ===[[Air Itam]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Air Itam | blurb=The highlights in this gateway to Penang Hill are the Jade Emperor's Pavilion and Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia | status=Guide | time=Dec-Feb is the driest time of the year | nominatedBy=[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:28, 23 June 2023 (UTC) | comment=We featured Georgetown as DotM in December 2014, so it's not too close time-wise to run this adjacent town. The article looks tidy, could use a little expansion though. | DotMImage=[[File:Jade Emperor's Pavilion Penang.JPG|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Almost''' - some sections, like Do, need to be expanded. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:28, 23 June 2023 (UTC) ===[[Tasmania]]=== {{FeatureNom | place=Tasmania | blurb=While the island state may have long moved on since its convict days, Tasmania holds a plethora of historic penal sites, photogenic mountains and one of the last few temperate rainforests in the Southern Hemisphere. | status=Guide | time=Oct–Apr (during southern summer/early autumn). | nominatedBy=<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 01:32, 17 April 2023 (UTC) | comment=Nominating this article for DotM has been on my radar since January. Most articles have received a minor update (with some major updates too), having spent 2.5 months with this project. Historically, this site has also only ever had one Tasmanian feature: [[Hobart]]. | DotMImage=[[File:Lion Rock, a shooting star and Aurora Australis.jpg|thumb|300px]] }} * '''Support''' as nominator. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 01:32, 17 April 2023 (UTC) : '''Comment:''' With [[Queensland]] and [[British Columbia]] we are settling on a standard for featuring state-level destinations. The requirements are similar as for cities, but slightly different; the listing of venues in a state can hardly be complete. /[[User:Yvwv|Yvwv]] ([[User talk:Yvwv|talk]]) 17:45, 20 April 2023 (UTC) ::Are you referring to the [[Tasmania#Landmarks|Landmarks]] section? <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 22:57, 20 April 2023 (UTC) ---- '''Outcome:''' dotm for Jan 2024. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|talk]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|contribs]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|meta]])</small></span> 05:58, 1 January 2024 (UTC) ieeyktz5vdfkbep5sqaxl52lwdhn8u6 0 204130 5091204 5024891 2025-07-11T05:46:57Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Patagonia */ 1) typo; 2) (in)definite article conflict 5091204 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|CL national parks banner.jpg|pgname=Chilean national parks|caption=Marinelli Glacier in Alberto de Agostini National Park}} [[File:Chungara Lake and Volcan Sajama Chile Luca Galuzzi 2006.jpg|thumb|270px|Lauca National Park]] '''[[Chile]]''' is one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world – no other country is as elongated but narrow as Chile. Desert, glaciers, volcanoes, fjords or mountains, almost all Chilean [[national parks]] contain at least one of these landscapes. As of 2024, there are 42 national parks in Chile. National parks are maintained by '''CONAF''', or the National Forest Corporation (''Corporación Nacional Forestal''). Up-to-date information on parks, including fees and permits, can be found on [https://www.conaf.cl/ conaf.cl]. The official website is in Spanish only; English translations are not provided, even in documents (except in some headings) – you will need to do the translations yourself if you do not speak Spanish. Many national parks will require you to pay a fee. The fee isn't an exorbitant amount of money (rarely above {{CLP|50,000}}), but they are usually higher for foreigners than Chilean citizens. Up-to-date fees can be found on the CONAF website. ==Destinations== {{mapframe|height=630|zoom=4|-39.37|-72.72|width=200}} This list of national parks have been categorized into the regions which are used by [[Chile#Regions|Wikivoyage]] with the regions listed from north to south (individual parks are listed alphabetically). Parks on Juan Fernandez Islands and Easter Island are listed under [[#Other]]. As of 2024, no national park is a {{unesco}} for its natural values. Many of them have been on the [https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/?action=listtentative&state=cl&order=states tentative list], some for a few decades; these parks are marked with a "(<abbr title="Tentative site for UNESCO World Heritage">'''T'''</abbr>)". However, many national parks are on the [[UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves]]. UNESCO Biosphere reserves are marked with a "(<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>)". ===Northern Chile=== Northern Chile is mostly characterized by the Atacama Desert – but unlike most deserts around the world, the Atacama Desert is one of the few [[high-elevation deserts]] – resulting in a nice blend of desert landscapes blended in with dry (sometimes icy) mountain landscapes. * {{marker|type=maroon|name=[[Bosque de Fray Jorge National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702870}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>) – a small national park close to central Chile. It is one of the few places where you can find forests in northern Chile (even though it only covers 4% of the park), with subtropical vegetation. * {{marker|type=maroon|name=[[Lauca National Park]]|wikidata=Q935435}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>) – characterized by snow-capped volcanoes and many Andrean animals, including alpacas, llamas, flamingoes and condors. It is also one of the more easily accessible national parks with several paved road entrances. * {{marker|type=maroon|name=[[Llanos de Challe National Park]]|wikidata=Q1703007}} – known for ''lomas'' or fog/mist oases as it is known in English, which are fog-watered vegetation stretching from this part of Chile to Peru. This happens to be one of the more southerly locations where it is found. * {{marker|type=maroon|name=[[Llullaillaco National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702889}} – home to Llullaillaco, the second-highest volcano in the world. It is road-accessible, but it is still somewhat difficult to access nonetheless; its relative inaccessibility is also what draws mountaineering groups towards hiking the volcano. * {{marker|type=maroon|name=[[Morro Moreno National Park]]|wikidata=Q16616378}} ([[:w:es:Parque nacional Morro Moreno|es]]) – a very small coastal national park very close to Antofagasta, home to some of the most amazing sunsets in the country. * {{marker|type=maroon|name=[[Nevado Tres Cruces National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702747}} – contains the typical landscape of the Atacama Desert and is in the vicinity of Ojos del Salado, the world's highest volcano. If you're lucky, you may be able to spot Andean flamingoes at Laguna Santa Rosa. * {{marker|type=maroon|name=[[Pan de Azúcar National Park]]|wikidata=Q1236744}} ([[:fr:Parc national Pan de Azúcar|fr]]) – there aren't many places where you can see ''very'' desert dry coastal landscapes, but this place is one of them. There is an offshore island, Isla Pan de Azúcar, where many humboldt penguins breed; boat tours often get close to it but you can't step foot on the island. * {{marker|type=maroon|name=[[Salar del Huasco|Salar del Huasco National Park]]|wikidata=Q20022191}} – the centerpiece for the Atacama Desert's salt flats and marshes. It's believed that there is a faultline directly to the west of the salt lake. * {{marker|type=maroon|name=[[Volcán Isluga National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702875}} – another Andean national park with mostly dry vegetation, named after Isluga, a stratovolcano within the park. You will be able to find plenty of cacti and queñoas within this park. ===Central Chile=== [[File:Colmillo del Diablo - Valle el Bolson.jpg|thumb|270px|Colmillo del Diablo in Radal Siete Tazas National Park.]] Unsurprisingly, there are only 4 parks in Central Chile, given it is the smallest of the four regions in Chile proper. The national parks in Central Chile tend to also be much smaller than parks found in the rest of the country. Despite being closer to the country's main port of entries, they're not the most visited national parks with only [[Radal Siete Tazas National Park]] even being considered on many travellers' radars. * {{marker|type=orange|name=[[La Campana National Park]]|wikidata=Q1306110}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>) – although a very small national park, it contains one of Chile's last palm forests. It is a UNESCO biosphere reserve along with Lago Peñuelas National Reserve. * {{marker|type=orange|name=[[Las Palmas de Cocalán National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702789}} – similar to La Campana National Park but is much smaller. * {{marker|type=orange|name=[[Radal Siete Tazas National Park]]|wikidata=Q2900289}} – Central Chile's most visited national park for its endless supply of natural pools, waterfalls and cascades. Particularly known for Colmillo del Diablo, a rather scenic valley. * {{marker|type=orange|name=[[Río Clarillo National Park]]|wikidata=Q7386244}} – directly to the southeast of Santiago. ===Southern Chile=== [[File:ValdivianRainforestChiloe2016.jpg|thumb|270px|Valdivian temperate rainforests of Chiloé National Park.]] [[File:Volcano Osorno and Petrohué waterfalls.JPG|thumb|270px|Volcano Osorno and the Petrohué Waterfalls form part of the country's oldest national park, Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park.]] Most of [[southern Chile]]'s national parks are temperate. Chile is known for its wild desert landscapes in the Atacama Desert of northern Chile and its Patagonian mountains, but the national parks in southern Chile form the bridge between the two. Many parks in southern Chile are part of the ''Bosques Templados Lluviosos de los Andes Australes'' UNESCO biosphere reserve. The main exception is Laguna del Laja National Park, which is part of its own biosphere reserve. * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Alerce Andino National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702923}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>) – home to about 50 different lakes and natural ponds, surrounded by an estuary to its east and south and a sound to its west. * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Alerce Costero National Park]]|wikidata=Q47003097}} – known for its Fitzroya forests. * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Chiloé National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702892}} – home to some impressive-looking Valdivian forests and is one of the key highlights of [[Chiloé Island]]. * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Conguillío National Park]]|wikidata=Q680312}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>) ([[:de:Nationalpark Conguillío|de]]) – home to extensive forests and many small lakes. Its main highlight is the Llaima volcano, which is surrounded by humid lava flows and a haven for the local vegetation. * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Corcovado National Park (Chile)|Corcovado National Park]]|wikidata=Q2900871}} – also home to many Valdivian temperate forests and over 80 lakes and is home to the prestine snow-capped Yate volcano. * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Hornopirén National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702881}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>) – home to many Valdivian temperate rainforests and many glacier-carved mountains, cliffs and valleys. Many of the park's lakes also have a distinctive green and blue hue. * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Huerquehue National Park]]|wikidata=Q1124254}} – although small, it is known for ''Araucaria'', a tree that looks very similar to those found on [[Socotra]]. If you are lucky, you may also be able to spot pudus, which is the world's smallest species of deer. * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Laguna del Laja National Park]]|wikidata=Q16911654}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>) – this park contains a very typical blend Patagonian and southern Chilean landscapes. Its main highlights are the Antuco Volcano, Sierra Velluda and Laguna del Laja, but the winter landscapes should explain it all. * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Nahuelbuta National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702917}} – known for its monkey puzzle trees, some of which date to over 2,000 years. * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Puyehue National Park]]|wikidata=Q634183}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>) – the country's most visited national park with over 400,000 visitors per year (a lot from a local context),<!--src:Wikipedia--> home to many thermal springs, volcanoes and evergreen forests. * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Tolhuaca National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702795}} – unsurprisingly, its main highlight is the volcano of the same name, Tolhuaca volcano. * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park]]|wikidata=Q763180}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>) – established in 1926, this is Chile's oldest national park, home to the Petrohué Waterfalls with an amazing mountain backdrop (and it's that way as the mountains of Osorno, Puntiagudo and Tronador receive year-round snow). * {{marker|type=royalblue|name=[[Villarrica National Park]]|wikidata=Q606749}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>) – home to three volcanoes which form the centerpiece of the park. ===Patagonia=== [[File:Serrano Glacier 2018-11-17 - 2.jpg|thumb|270px|Serrano Glacier in Bernado O'Higgins National Park, Chile's largest national park]] [[File:Cerro Castillo Lagoon.jpg|thumb|270px|Cerro Castillo capped in snow]] [[File:Cuernos del Paine, Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, Chile10.jpg|thumb|270px|Torres del Paine National Park is the country's most well-renowned national park]] This part of Chile is home to some of Chile's largest, most beautiful and jaw-dropping parks; however, they are also home to some of the most inaccessible parks in the country, many of which can only be accessed by boat or by helicopter. Some of the country's most well-renowned parks are found in Patagonia – including Torres del Paine, Bernardo O'Higgins and Cape Horn. High-elevation snow-capped mountains, vast [[fjords]] and [[glaciers]] characterize much of Patagonia's national parks. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Alberto de Agostini National Park]]|wikidata=Q1759349}} – steep fjords, long glaciers and stunning mountains characterise one of the more southerly parks of Patagonia. It's very secluded, only being accessible by ship. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Bernardo O'Higgins National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702858}} (<abbr title="Tentative site for UNESCO World Heritage">'''T'''</abbr>) – Chile's largest national park, home to the largest glaciated icefield outside the poles and Greenland. Despite being the largest national park, it is also one of the most well-secluded national parks, only being accessible by boat or helicopter. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Cabo de Hornos National Park]]|wikidata=Q338542}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>) – the world's southernmost national park, most notably known for Cape Horn (''Cabo de Hornos''), which has historically been one of the most important sailing points in the world. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Cerro Castillo National Park]]|wikidata=Q3738207}} – home to Cerro Castillo (lit. ''Castle Hill''), the highlight of the park, in addition to its diverse range of wildlife including pumas, guanaco, Patagonian chingues and red foxes. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Guamblin Island|Isla Guamblin National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702897}} – an uninhabited important birding area. Although it is an island, the rough nature of the seas mean that it is very difficult to visit Guamblin Island by boat due to the difficulty of mooring the boat. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Isla Magdalena National Park]]|wikidata=Q1651325}} – a 1,576-km²-island with the only piece of infrastructure being a small fishing cove; fully pristine outside of that. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Kawésqar National Park]]|wikidata=Q284749}} – Chile's second-largest national park after Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. It is named in honor of the Kawésqar peoples who arrived in this area 7000 years ago. The park is home to many but low mountains, none of which exceed 1000 m in elevation; the area around the park is very tectonically active and is home to very powerful glaciers. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Laguna San Rafael National Park]]|wikidata=Q1703052}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>) – Chile's third-largest national park is most well-known for the San Rafael Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the region. Unfortunately, climate change has resulted in the glacier's retreat since 1991 but large portions of the glacier are still boat-accessible to enjoy. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Melimoyu National Park]]|wikidata=Q106530593}} – one of Patagonia's relatively newer national parks having only been established in 2018 to protect the many waterways of this region. It's so desolate that it like some other national parks in Patagonia, are only ferry-accessible and have zero park rangers. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Pali-Aike National Park]]|wikidata=Q1367137}} (<abbr title="Tentative site for UNESCO World Heritage">'''T'''</abbr>) – while this park may be Patagonia's least mountainous park, this small park holds rocky formations in 1000-year-old laval and archaeological sites, including petroglyphs, rock carvings and tools dating back to over 11,000 years. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Patagonia National Park (Chile)|Patagonia National Park]]|wikidata=Q16622740}} – established on what was previously sheep ranches, the fences have been removed and this semi-arid park has been retaken by nature. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Queulat National Park]]|wikidata=Q1703011}} – while initially explored to find the City of the Caesars in the 18th-century, this park like many others in Patagonia are home to Andean mountains and glaciers. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Torres del Paine National Park]]|wikidata=Q901646}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>; <abbr title="Tentative site for UNESCO World Heritage">'''T'''</abbr>) – the most well-known Chilean national park, world-famed for the Towers of Paine. Despite its remoteness, it is one of the few parks that are easily road-accessible with many lookouts and hiking trails easily accessible by road. * {{marker|type=navy|name=[[Yendegaia National Park]]|wikidata=Q15867509}} – [[Tierra del Fuego]]'s other mountainous national park, established during the country's bicentennary. It protects Gondwana sub-Antarctic beech forest, one of the last of its kind outside the eastern four states of Australia and New Zealand. ===Other=== [[File:Tres Torres - Isla Alejandro Selkirk por Pato Novoa.jpg|thumb|270px|Archipiélago de Juan Fernández National Park]] Chile has two national parks that aren't part of Chile proper: one is on Easter Island, home to Moai statues, while the other is part of the Juan Fernández Archipelago. * {{marker|type=teal|name=[[Archipiélago de Juan Fernández National Park]]|wikidata=Q1702865}} (<span style="color:forestgreen"><abbr title="UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve">'''B'''</abbr></span>; <abbr title="Tentative site for UNESCO World Heritage">'''T'''</abbr>) – a small island archipelago with many rugged mountains, rolling hills and many endemic plants and wildlife, with this national park being one of the main highlights of the Juan Fernández Islands. * {{marker|type=teal|name=[[Rapa Nui National Park]]|wikidata=Q1763364}} – you've heard of Easter Island before, and you likely know what it's known for (Moai statues), but those Moai statues lie in this park; you can't visit Easter Island and not come to Rapa Nui National Park. ==See also== * [[Central and South American wildlife]] * [[National parks]] ** [[National parks in Australia]] ** [[Canadian national parks]] ** [[Costa Rica national parks]] ** [[Finnish national parks]] ** [[Japanese national parks]] ** [[Mexico national parks]] ** [[New Zealand national parks]] ** [[United Kingdom national parks]] ** [[United States national parks]] {{usabletopic}} {{PartOfTopic|National parks|Chile}} 2mrlr6ttsympnjwjzaylmidwke1xro8 0 204391 5090797 5071270 2025-07-10T13:22:08Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090797 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Generic flying banner.jpg}} '''Imam Khomeini airport''' ({{IATA|IKA}}) is in [[Tehran]], [[Iran]]. ==Understand== The airport is operated by the Iran Airports Company and is the primary operating base for Iran Air and Mahan Air, as well as an international hub for many smaller Iranian airlines. IKA hosts more than 40 airlines. ==Flights== As of June 2022, IKIA has three terminals. ;Terminal 1 Terminal 1, IKIA's first active terminal, has a total annual handling capacity of 6.5&nbsp;million passengers. In 2017, it handled nearly 9 million passengers. ;Terminal 2 Salaam Terminal, IKIA Second Active Terminal, has a capacity of 5 million passengers per year. While built to be a dedicated [[Hajj|pilgrimage]] terminal, according to Iran's former Minister of Roads and Urban Development Abbas Akhoundi, it will be open to all varieties of flights. ====Terminal 3==== IKIA's third terminal, called the Iranshahr Terminal, is under development by the Dutch engineering firm Netherlands Airport Consultants (NACO). However, in 2017, NACO withdrew from the contract after its failure to obtain financing due in part to US sanctions against Iran. The Iranshahr Terminal is planned to have a capacity of 20 million passengers per year, which would bring the airport's total passenger capacity to 30 million passengers per year. ==Ground transportation== The airport is 30 km from Tehran-Qom Rd. ==Get around== As IKA is located outside the city, you don't have many choices to get around. ==Wait== The airport is very clean, big and spacious. ==Eat and drink== There are many stores in the airport to buy food and non-alcoholic beverages. ==Buy== You can buy souvenirs, food, bottled water, toys for kids, ... ==Connect== ==Cope== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name= Remis Hotel 4 star | alt= | url= | email= | address= Near the IKA airport | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= 14:00 | checkout= 12:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-02 | content= }} * {{sleep | name= Rexan Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= Near the IKA airport | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= 14:00 | checkout= 12:00 | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-02 | content= }} ==Nearby== {{merge|Tehran#By plane|per talk page}} {{IsPartOf|Tehran (province)}} {{outlineairport}} {{geo|35.40920|51.15464}} 9ds6awrdcc71l7tg3hd77t1weyvye8a 2 204425 5090972 5089183 2025-07-10T17:29:57Z Someonehere12345 2299952 Added listing for Mixx Bar 5090972 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''''Norwegian Breakaway''''' is a cruise ship of Norwegian Cruise Line. ==Understand == === History === The Norwegian Breakaway was one of two ships to be apart of Norwegian Cruise Line's "Project Breakaway" (The other being the Norwegian Getaway). It was first unveiled in [[Las Vegas]] with 2 stateroom designs (being the balcony and mini-suite staterooms) in June 2011 and construction first began in with the cutting of the first piece of steel in September 2011 where the ship was built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in [[Papenburg]], [[Lower Saxony]], [[Germany]]. At the time the Norwegian Breakaway was the largest passenger cruise ship to have been built in Germany. The Norwegian Breakaway had its maiden voyage on April 30,2013 from [[Rotterdam]],[[Netherlands]] to [[Southampton]],[[England]]. === Name === The Norwegian Breakaway's name was selected through a public contest that was held through American newspaper USA Today. ==Get in== You can get on the Norwegian Breakaway by booking a cruise either through a travel agent, using Norwegian Cruise Line's [https://www.ncl.com/ website] , or by calling +1-866-234-7350. ==Get around== The Norwegian Breakaway had 18 decks, 14 of which are open to the public, as the lowest 4 decks is areas for crew, storage, engine room, etc. You can get from floor to floor by either using the stairs, or the elevator. ==See== ==Do== ==Learn== ==Work== ==Buy== ==Eat== ===Free=== * {{eat | name=American Diner | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/American-Diner-B_Mobile-Menu_010224_0.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 16 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Pull up a chair at this 50’s style diner and order from a diverse selection of comfort foods. Experience a slice of Americana, including classic cars, with every bite. }} * {{eat | name=Garden Café | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 15 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Whatever you’re craving, chances are you will find it at the Garden Café. This complimentary, indoor buffet restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. }} * {{eat | name=The Haven Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Haven-Dinner_Mobile-Menu_040524.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free (Must be a guest of The Haven (see sleep listing) | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=Enjoy a private fine dining experience for guests of The Haven, serving unique signature dishes and wine offerings. }} * {{eat | name=The Manhattan Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=One of three Main Dining Rooms, The Manhattan Room is where guests can enjoy specially curated modern and classic dishes made with the freshest ingredients. }} * {{eat | name=O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-O-Sheehan_Mobile-Menu_010225.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours daily | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Dine on Irish pub classics while sipping your favorite draft beer, all in a casual atmosphere open 24 hours a day. There's no charge to dig into your favorite comfort foods such as Fish n’ Chips or throw some darts while taking in a sports game. }} * {{eat | name=Savor | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Balancing classic favorites with unique new dishes, dining at Savor is a must. Offering guests an extensive menu of deliciously fresh flavors along with chic and modern decor, visiting this Main Dining Room is always in style. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai's Noodle Bar | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Noodle-Bar_Mobile-Menu_010123.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Enjoy a complimentary Asian restaurant featuring freshly prepared noodles, delicious wok fried dishes, authentic soups and more. }} * {{eat | name=Taste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Serving a wide variety of cuisine, Taste offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere. Plus, with a menu that changes daily and carefully selected wine recommendations, you'll experience a different culinary adventure with every visit. }} === Paid === {{Eat|name=Cagney's Steakhouse|alt=Cagney's|url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-Cagneys_Dinner-Dessert-Mobile-Menu_021325.pdf|address=Deck 8|price=$60 Cover Charge per person, in addition to a 20% gratuity fee, and a beverage service charge.|lastedit=2025-03-22|content=Specializing in Premium Black Angus Beef and seafood, this American-style steakhouse has classic cocktails, and wines with attentive service.}} {{eat | name=Le Bistro | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Le_Bistro_Dinner_Dessert_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-06 | content=French Style Restaurant }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mixx Bar | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Mingle with new friends and enjoy live piano at Mixx, a modern classical, pre-dinner gathering place between two of our most popular dining spots. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== ===Splurge=== ==Stay safe== == Stay healthy == There is a medical center deck 5 ==Connect== ==Cope== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo||}} 5sy32026vhl1a7zbbp2c1593djl6eid 5090973 5090972 2025-07-10T17:32:35Z Someonehere12345 2299952 /* Paid */ Added listing for Teppanyaki 5090973 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''''Norwegian Breakaway''''' is a cruise ship of Norwegian Cruise Line. ==Understand == === History === The Norwegian Breakaway was one of two ships to be apart of Norwegian Cruise Line's "Project Breakaway" (The other being the Norwegian Getaway). It was first unveiled in [[Las Vegas]] with 2 stateroom designs (being the balcony and mini-suite staterooms) in June 2011 and construction first began in with the cutting of the first piece of steel in September 2011 where the ship was built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in [[Papenburg]], [[Lower Saxony]], [[Germany]]. At the time the Norwegian Breakaway was the largest passenger cruise ship to have been built in Germany. The Norwegian Breakaway had its maiden voyage on April 30,2013 from [[Rotterdam]],[[Netherlands]] to [[Southampton]],[[England]]. === Name === The Norwegian Breakaway's name was selected through a public contest that was held through American newspaper USA Today. ==Get in== You can get on the Norwegian Breakaway by booking a cruise either through a travel agent, using Norwegian Cruise Line's [https://www.ncl.com/ website] , or by calling +1-866-234-7350. ==Get around== The Norwegian Breakaway had 18 decks, 14 of which are open to the public, as the lowest 4 decks is areas for crew, storage, engine room, etc. You can get from floor to floor by either using the stairs, or the elevator. ==See== ==Do== ==Learn== ==Work== ==Buy== ==Eat== ===Free=== * {{eat | name=American Diner | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/American-Diner-B_Mobile-Menu_010224_0.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 16 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Pull up a chair at this 50’s style diner and order from a diverse selection of comfort foods. Experience a slice of Americana, including classic cars, with every bite. }} * {{eat | name=Garden Café | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 15 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Whatever you’re craving, chances are you will find it at the Garden Café. This complimentary, indoor buffet restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. }} * {{eat | name=The Haven Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Haven-Dinner_Mobile-Menu_040524.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free (Must be a guest of The Haven (see sleep listing) | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=Enjoy a private fine dining experience for guests of The Haven, serving unique signature dishes and wine offerings. }} * {{eat | name=The Manhattan Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=One of three Main Dining Rooms, The Manhattan Room is where guests can enjoy specially curated modern and classic dishes made with the freshest ingredients. }} * {{eat | name=O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-O-Sheehan_Mobile-Menu_010225.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours daily | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Dine on Irish pub classics while sipping your favorite draft beer, all in a casual atmosphere open 24 hours a day. There's no charge to dig into your favorite comfort foods such as Fish n’ Chips or throw some darts while taking in a sports game. }} * {{eat | name=Savor | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Balancing classic favorites with unique new dishes, dining at Savor is a must. Offering guests an extensive menu of deliciously fresh flavors along with chic and modern decor, visiting this Main Dining Room is always in style. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai's Noodle Bar | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Noodle-Bar_Mobile-Menu_010123.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Enjoy a complimentary Asian restaurant featuring freshly prepared noodles, delicious wok fried dishes, authentic soups and more. }} * {{eat | name=Taste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Serving a wide variety of cuisine, Taste offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere. Plus, with a menu that changes daily and carefully selected wine recommendations, you'll experience a different culinary adventure with every visit. }} === Paid === {{Eat|name=Cagney's Steakhouse|alt=Cagney's|url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-Cagneys_Dinner-Dessert-Mobile-Menu_021325.pdf|address=Deck 8|price=$60 Cover Charge per person, in addition to a 20% gratuity fee, and a beverage service charge.|lastedit=2025-03-22|content=Specializing in Premium Black Angus Beef and seafood, this American-style steakhouse has classic cocktails, and wines with attentive service.}} {{eat | name=Le Bistro | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Le_Bistro_Dinner_Dessert_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-06 | content=French Style Restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Teppanyaki | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Sit at a shared table as a chef perfectly prepares shrimp, steak, chicken and fried rice on a large steel grill. And you've got a front row seat to all the sizzles and surprises in the Japanese restaurant. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mixx Bar | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Mingle with new friends and enjoy live piano at Mixx, a modern classical, pre-dinner gathering place between two of our most popular dining spots. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== ===Splurge=== ==Stay safe== == Stay healthy == There is a medical center deck 5 ==Connect== ==Cope== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo||}} pq3dma5nb6tbl3wy3w1l31mvkpbsmtc 5090974 5090973 2025-07-10T17:32:58Z Someonehere12345 2299952 /* Paid */ Updated listing for Teppanyaki 5090974 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''''Norwegian Breakaway''''' is a cruise ship of Norwegian Cruise Line. ==Understand == === History === The Norwegian Breakaway was one of two ships to be apart of Norwegian Cruise Line's "Project Breakaway" (The other being the Norwegian Getaway). It was first unveiled in [[Las Vegas]] with 2 stateroom designs (being the balcony and mini-suite staterooms) in June 2011 and construction first began in with the cutting of the first piece of steel in September 2011 where the ship was built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in [[Papenburg]], [[Lower Saxony]], [[Germany]]. At the time the Norwegian Breakaway was the largest passenger cruise ship to have been built in Germany. The Norwegian Breakaway had its maiden voyage on April 30,2013 from [[Rotterdam]],[[Netherlands]] to [[Southampton]],[[England]]. === Name === The Norwegian Breakaway's name was selected through a public contest that was held through American newspaper USA Today. ==Get in== You can get on the Norwegian Breakaway by booking a cruise either through a travel agent, using Norwegian Cruise Line's [https://www.ncl.com/ website] , or by calling +1-866-234-7350. ==Get around== The Norwegian Breakaway had 18 decks, 14 of which are open to the public, as the lowest 4 decks is areas for crew, storage, engine room, etc. You can get from floor to floor by either using the stairs, or the elevator. ==See== ==Do== ==Learn== ==Work== ==Buy== ==Eat== ===Free=== * {{eat | name=American Diner | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/American-Diner-B_Mobile-Menu_010224_0.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 16 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Pull up a chair at this 50’s style diner and order from a diverse selection of comfort foods. Experience a slice of Americana, including classic cars, with every bite. }} * {{eat | name=Garden Café | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 15 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Whatever you’re craving, chances are you will find it at the Garden Café. This complimentary, indoor buffet restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. }} * {{eat | name=The Haven Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Haven-Dinner_Mobile-Menu_040524.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free (Must be a guest of The Haven (see sleep listing) | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=Enjoy a private fine dining experience for guests of The Haven, serving unique signature dishes and wine offerings. }} * {{eat | name=The Manhattan Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=One of three Main Dining Rooms, The Manhattan Room is where guests can enjoy specially curated modern and classic dishes made with the freshest ingredients. }} * {{eat | name=O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-O-Sheehan_Mobile-Menu_010225.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours daily | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Dine on Irish pub classics while sipping your favorite draft beer, all in a casual atmosphere open 24 hours a day. There's no charge to dig into your favorite comfort foods such as Fish n’ Chips or throw some darts while taking in a sports game. }} * {{eat | name=Savor | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Balancing classic favorites with unique new dishes, dining at Savor is a must. Offering guests an extensive menu of deliciously fresh flavors along with chic and modern decor, visiting this Main Dining Room is always in style. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai's Noodle Bar | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Noodle-Bar_Mobile-Menu_010123.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Enjoy a complimentary Asian restaurant featuring freshly prepared noodles, delicious wok fried dishes, authentic soups and more. }} * {{eat | name=Taste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Serving a wide variety of cuisine, Taste offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere. Plus, with a menu that changes daily and carefully selected wine recommendations, you'll experience a different culinary adventure with every visit. }} === Paid === {{Eat|name=Cagney's Steakhouse|alt=Cagney's|url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-Cagneys_Dinner-Dessert-Mobile-Menu_021325.pdf|address=Deck 8|price=$60 Cover Charge per person, in addition to a 20% gratuity fee, and a beverage service charge.|lastedit=2025-03-22|content=Specializing in Premium Black Angus Beef and seafood, this American-style steakhouse has classic cocktails, and wines with attentive service.}} {{eat | name=Le Bistro | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Le_Bistro_Dinner_Dessert_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-06 | content=French Style Restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Teppanyaki | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Teppanyaki_Dinner_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Sit at a shared table as a chef perfectly prepares shrimp, steak, chicken and fried rice on a large steel grill. And you've got a front row seat to all the sizzles and surprises in the Japanese restaurant. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mixx Bar | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Mingle with new friends and enjoy live piano at Mixx, a modern classical, pre-dinner gathering place between two of our most popular dining spots. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== ===Splurge=== ==Stay safe== == Stay healthy == There is a medical center deck 5 ==Connect== ==Cope== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo||}} 9ljice88npnpk3bi7jljiev61mwz601 5090975 5090974 2025-07-10T17:36:37Z Someonehere12345 2299952 Added listing for Headliners Comedy Club 5090975 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''''Norwegian Breakaway''''' is a cruise ship of Norwegian Cruise Line. ==Understand == === History === The Norwegian Breakaway was one of two ships to be apart of Norwegian Cruise Line's "Project Breakaway" (The other being the Norwegian Getaway). It was first unveiled in [[Las Vegas]] with 2 stateroom designs (being the balcony and mini-suite staterooms) in June 2011 and construction first began in with the cutting of the first piece of steel in September 2011 where the ship was built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in [[Papenburg]], [[Lower Saxony]], [[Germany]]. At the time the Norwegian Breakaway was the largest passenger cruise ship to have been built in Germany. The Norwegian Breakaway had its maiden voyage on April 30,2013 from [[Rotterdam]],[[Netherlands]] to [[Southampton]],[[England]]. === Name === The Norwegian Breakaway's name was selected through a public contest that was held through American newspaper USA Today. ==Get in== You can get on the Norwegian Breakaway by booking a cruise either through a travel agent, using Norwegian Cruise Line's [https://www.ncl.com/ website] , or by calling +1-866-234-7350. ==Get around== The Norwegian Breakaway had 18 decks, 14 of which are open to the public, as the lowest 4 decks is areas for crew, storage, engine room, etc. You can get from floor to floor by either using the stairs, or the elevator. ==See== * {{see | name=Headliners Comedy Club | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A couple walks into a bar and laughs the night away. This isn't the start of a joke, but the beginning of an evening at Headliners Comedy Club. }} ==Do== ==Learn== ==Work== ==Buy== ==Eat== ===Free=== * {{eat | name=American Diner | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/American-Diner-B_Mobile-Menu_010224_0.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 16 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Pull up a chair at this 50’s style diner and order from a diverse selection of comfort foods. Experience a slice of Americana, including classic cars, with every bite. }} * {{eat | name=Garden Café | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 15 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Whatever you’re craving, chances are you will find it at the Garden Café. This complimentary, indoor buffet restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. }} * {{eat | name=The Haven Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Haven-Dinner_Mobile-Menu_040524.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free (Must be a guest of The Haven (see sleep listing) | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=Enjoy a private fine dining experience for guests of The Haven, serving unique signature dishes and wine offerings. }} * {{eat | name=The Manhattan Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=One of three Main Dining Rooms, The Manhattan Room is where guests can enjoy specially curated modern and classic dishes made with the freshest ingredients. }} * {{eat | name=O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-O-Sheehan_Mobile-Menu_010225.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours daily | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Dine on Irish pub classics while sipping your favorite draft beer, all in a casual atmosphere open 24 hours a day. There's no charge to dig into your favorite comfort foods such as Fish n’ Chips or throw some darts while taking in a sports game. }} * {{eat | name=Savor | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Balancing classic favorites with unique new dishes, dining at Savor is a must. Offering guests an extensive menu of deliciously fresh flavors along with chic and modern decor, visiting this Main Dining Room is always in style. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai's Noodle Bar | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Noodle-Bar_Mobile-Menu_010123.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Enjoy a complimentary Asian restaurant featuring freshly prepared noodles, delicious wok fried dishes, authentic soups and more. }} * {{eat | name=Taste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Serving a wide variety of cuisine, Taste offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere. Plus, with a menu that changes daily and carefully selected wine recommendations, you'll experience a different culinary adventure with every visit. }} === Paid === {{Eat|name=Cagney's Steakhouse|alt=Cagney's|url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-Cagneys_Dinner-Dessert-Mobile-Menu_021325.pdf|address=Deck 8|price=$60 Cover Charge per person, in addition to a 20% gratuity fee, and a beverage service charge.|lastedit=2025-03-22|content=Specializing in Premium Black Angus Beef and seafood, this American-style steakhouse has classic cocktails, and wines with attentive service.}} {{eat | name=Le Bistro | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Le_Bistro_Dinner_Dessert_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-06 | content=French Style Restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Teppanyaki | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Teppanyaki_Dinner_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Sit at a shared table as a chef perfectly prepares shrimp, steak, chicken and fried rice on a large steel grill. And you've got a front row seat to all the sizzles and surprises in the Japanese restaurant. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mixx Bar | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Mingle with new friends and enjoy live piano at Mixx, a modern classical, pre-dinner gathering place between two of our most popular dining spots. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== ===Splurge=== ==Stay safe== == Stay healthy == There is a medical center deck 5 ==Connect== ==Cope== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo||}} 2nqvf4x3k7p5i54ziid73axqew9ja3o 5090978 5090975 2025-07-10T17:37:38Z Someonehere12345 2299952 5090978 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''''Norwegian Breakaway''''' is a cruise ship of Norwegian Cruise Line. ==Understand == === History === The Norwegian Breakaway was one of two ships to be apart of Norwegian Cruise Line's "Project Breakaway" (The other being the Norwegian Getaway). It was first unveiled in [[Las Vegas]] with 2 stateroom designs (being the balcony and mini-suite staterooms) in June 2011 and construction first began in with the cutting of the first piece of steel in September 2011 where the ship was built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in [[Papenburg]], [[Lower Saxony]], [[Germany]]. At the time the Norwegian Breakaway was the largest passenger cruise ship to have been built in Germany. The Norwegian Breakaway had its maiden voyage on April 30,2013 from [[Rotterdam]],[[Netherlands]] to [[Southampton]],[[England]]. === Name === The Norwegian Breakaway's name was selected through a public contest that was held through American newspaper USA Today. ==Get in== You can get on the Norwegian Breakaway by booking a cruise either through a travel agent, using Norwegian Cruise Line's [https://www.ncl.com/ website] , or by calling +1-866-234-7350. ==Get around== The Norwegian Breakaway had 18 decks, 14 of which are open to the public, as the lowest 4 decks is areas for crew, storage, engine room, etc. You can get from floor to floor by either using the stairs, or the elevator. ==See== * ==Do== {{see | name=Headliners Comedy Club | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A couple walks into a bar and laughs the night away. This isn't the start of a joke, but the beginning of an evening at Headliners Comedy Club. }} ==Learn== ==Work== ==Buy== ==Eat== ===Free=== * {{eat | name=American Diner | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/American-Diner-B_Mobile-Menu_010224_0.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 16 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Pull up a chair at this 50’s style diner and order from a diverse selection of comfort foods. Experience a slice of Americana, including classic cars, with every bite. }} * {{eat | name=Garden Café | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 15 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Whatever you’re craving, chances are you will find it at the Garden Café. This complimentary, indoor buffet restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. }} * {{eat | name=The Haven Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Haven-Dinner_Mobile-Menu_040524.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free (Must be a guest of The Haven (see sleep listing) | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=Enjoy a private fine dining experience for guests of The Haven, serving unique signature dishes and wine offerings. }} * {{eat | name=The Manhattan Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=One of three Main Dining Rooms, The Manhattan Room is where guests can enjoy specially curated modern and classic dishes made with the freshest ingredients. }} * {{eat | name=O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-O-Sheehan_Mobile-Menu_010225.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours daily | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Dine on Irish pub classics while sipping your favorite draft beer, all in a casual atmosphere open 24 hours a day. There's no charge to dig into your favorite comfort foods such as Fish n’ Chips or throw some darts while taking in a sports game. }} * {{eat | name=Savor | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Balancing classic favorites with unique new dishes, dining at Savor is a must. Offering guests an extensive menu of deliciously fresh flavors along with chic and modern decor, visiting this Main Dining Room is always in style. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai's Noodle Bar | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Noodle-Bar_Mobile-Menu_010123.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Enjoy a complimentary Asian restaurant featuring freshly prepared noodles, delicious wok fried dishes, authentic soups and more. }} * {{eat | name=Taste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Serving a wide variety of cuisine, Taste offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere. Plus, with a menu that changes daily and carefully selected wine recommendations, you'll experience a different culinary adventure with every visit. }} === Paid === {{Eat|name=Cagney's Steakhouse|alt=Cagney's|url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-Cagneys_Dinner-Dessert-Mobile-Menu_021325.pdf|address=Deck 8|price=$60 Cover Charge per person, in addition to a 20% gratuity fee, and a beverage service charge.|lastedit=2025-03-22|content=Specializing in Premium Black Angus Beef and seafood, this American-style steakhouse has classic cocktails, and wines with attentive service.}} {{eat | name=Le Bistro | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Le_Bistro_Dinner_Dessert_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-06 | content=French Style Restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Teppanyaki | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Teppanyaki_Dinner_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Sit at a shared table as a chef perfectly prepares shrimp, steak, chicken and fried rice on a large steel grill. And you've got a front row seat to all the sizzles and surprises in the Japanese restaurant. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mixx Bar | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Mingle with new friends and enjoy live piano at Mixx, a modern classical, pre-dinner gathering place between two of our most popular dining spots. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== ===Splurge=== ==Stay safe== == Stay healthy == There is a medical center deck 5 ==Connect== ==Cope== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo||}} fog2gbz53qyl5sl7px48cq4im226k1j 5090979 5090978 2025-07-10T17:37:51Z Someonehere12345 2299952 /* Do */ Updated listing for Headliners Comedy Club 5090979 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''''Norwegian Breakaway''''' is a cruise ship of Norwegian Cruise Line. ==Understand == === History === The Norwegian Breakaway was one of two ships to be apart of Norwegian Cruise Line's "Project Breakaway" (The other being the Norwegian Getaway). It was first unveiled in [[Las Vegas]] with 2 stateroom designs (being the balcony and mini-suite staterooms) in June 2011 and construction first began in with the cutting of the first piece of steel in September 2011 where the ship was built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in [[Papenburg]], [[Lower Saxony]], [[Germany]]. At the time the Norwegian Breakaway was the largest passenger cruise ship to have been built in Germany. The Norwegian Breakaway had its maiden voyage on April 30,2013 from [[Rotterdam]],[[Netherlands]] to [[Southampton]],[[England]]. === Name === The Norwegian Breakaway's name was selected through a public contest that was held through American newspaper USA Today. ==Get in== You can get on the Norwegian Breakaway by booking a cruise either through a travel agent, using Norwegian Cruise Line's [https://www.ncl.com/ website] , or by calling +1-866-234-7350. ==Get around== The Norwegian Breakaway had 18 decks, 14 of which are open to the public, as the lowest 4 decks is areas for crew, storage, engine room, etc. You can get from floor to floor by either using the stairs, or the elevator. ==See== * ==Do== {{do | name=Headliners Comedy Club | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A couple walks into a bar and laughs the night away. This isn't the start of a joke, but the beginning of an evening at Headliners Comedy Club. }} ==Learn== ==Work== ==Buy== ==Eat== ===Free=== * {{eat | name=American Diner | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/American-Diner-B_Mobile-Menu_010224_0.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 16 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Pull up a chair at this 50’s style diner and order from a diverse selection of comfort foods. Experience a slice of Americana, including classic cars, with every bite. }} * {{eat | name=Garden Café | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 15 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Whatever you’re craving, chances are you will find it at the Garden Café. This complimentary, indoor buffet restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. }} * {{eat | name=The Haven Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Haven-Dinner_Mobile-Menu_040524.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free (Must be a guest of The Haven (see sleep listing) | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=Enjoy a private fine dining experience for guests of The Haven, serving unique signature dishes and wine offerings. }} * {{eat | name=The Manhattan Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=One of three Main Dining Rooms, The Manhattan Room is where guests can enjoy specially curated modern and classic dishes made with the freshest ingredients. }} * {{eat | name=O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-O-Sheehan_Mobile-Menu_010225.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours daily | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Dine on Irish pub classics while sipping your favorite draft beer, all in a casual atmosphere open 24 hours a day. There's no charge to dig into your favorite comfort foods such as Fish n’ Chips or throw some darts while taking in a sports game. }} * {{eat | name=Savor | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Balancing classic favorites with unique new dishes, dining at Savor is a must. Offering guests an extensive menu of deliciously fresh flavors along with chic and modern decor, visiting this Main Dining Room is always in style. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai's Noodle Bar | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Noodle-Bar_Mobile-Menu_010123.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Enjoy a complimentary Asian restaurant featuring freshly prepared noodles, delicious wok fried dishes, authentic soups and more. }} * {{eat | name=Taste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Serving a wide variety of cuisine, Taste offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere. Plus, with a menu that changes daily and carefully selected wine recommendations, you'll experience a different culinary adventure with every visit. }} === Paid === {{Eat|name=Cagney's Steakhouse|alt=Cagney's|url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-Cagneys_Dinner-Dessert-Mobile-Menu_021325.pdf|address=Deck 8|price=$60 Cover Charge per person, in addition to a 20% gratuity fee, and a beverage service charge.|lastedit=2025-03-22|content=Specializing in Premium Black Angus Beef and seafood, this American-style steakhouse has classic cocktails, and wines with attentive service.}} {{eat | name=Le Bistro | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Le_Bistro_Dinner_Dessert_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-06 | content=French Style Restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Teppanyaki | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Teppanyaki_Dinner_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Sit at a shared table as a chef perfectly prepares shrimp, steak, chicken and fried rice on a large steel grill. And you've got a front row seat to all the sizzles and surprises in the Japanese restaurant. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mixx Bar | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Mingle with new friends and enjoy live piano at Mixx, a modern classical, pre-dinner gathering place between two of our most popular dining spots. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== ===Splurge=== ==Stay safe== == Stay healthy == There is a medical center deck 5 ==Connect== ==Cope== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo||}} 2wqthefi5jmqf1yptk62tw1lzg1f4mf 5090991 5090979 2025-07-10T17:58:52Z Someonehere12345 2299952 Added listing for Art Gallery 5090991 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''''Norwegian Breakaway''''' is a cruise ship of Norwegian Cruise Line. ==Understand == === History === The Norwegian Breakaway was one of two ships to be apart of Norwegian Cruise Line's "Project Breakaway" (The other being the Norwegian Getaway). It was first unveiled in [[Las Vegas]] with 2 stateroom designs (being the balcony and mini-suite staterooms) in June 2011 and construction first began in with the cutting of the first piece of steel in September 2011 where the ship was built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in [[Papenburg]], [[Lower Saxony]], [[Germany]]. At the time the Norwegian Breakaway was the largest passenger cruise ship to have been built in Germany. The Norwegian Breakaway had its maiden voyage on April 30,2013 from [[Rotterdam]],[[Netherlands]] to [[Southampton]],[[England]]. === Name === The Norwegian Breakaway's name was selected through a public contest that was held through American newspaper USA Today. ==Get in== You can get on the Norwegian Breakaway by booking a cruise either through a travel agent, using Norwegian Cruise Line's [https://www.ncl.com/ website] , or by calling +1-866-234-7350. ==Get around== The Norwegian Breakaway had 18 decks, 14 of which are open to the public, as the lowest 4 decks is areas for crew, storage, engine room, etc. You can get from floor to floor by either using the stairs, or the elevator. ==See== * ==Do== {{do | name=Headliners Comedy Club | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A couple walks into a bar and laughs the night away. This isn't the start of a joke, but the beginning of an evening at Headliners Comedy Club. }} ==Learn== ==Work== ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Art Gallery | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Eat== ===Free=== * {{eat | name=American Diner | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/American-Diner-B_Mobile-Menu_010224_0.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 16 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Pull up a chair at this 50’s style diner and order from a diverse selection of comfort foods. Experience a slice of Americana, including classic cars, with every bite. }} * {{eat | name=Garden Café | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 15 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Whatever you’re craving, chances are you will find it at the Garden Café. This complimentary, indoor buffet restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. }} * {{eat | name=The Haven Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Haven-Dinner_Mobile-Menu_040524.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free (Must be a guest of The Haven (see sleep listing) | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=Enjoy a private fine dining experience for guests of The Haven, serving unique signature dishes and wine offerings. }} * {{eat | name=The Manhattan Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=One of three Main Dining Rooms, The Manhattan Room is where guests can enjoy specially curated modern and classic dishes made with the freshest ingredients. }} * {{eat | name=O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-O-Sheehan_Mobile-Menu_010225.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours daily | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Dine on Irish pub classics while sipping your favorite draft beer, all in a casual atmosphere open 24 hours a day. There's no charge to dig into your favorite comfort foods such as Fish n’ Chips or throw some darts while taking in a sports game. }} * {{eat | name=Savor | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Balancing classic favorites with unique new dishes, dining at Savor is a must. Offering guests an extensive menu of deliciously fresh flavors along with chic and modern decor, visiting this Main Dining Room is always in style. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai's Noodle Bar | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Noodle-Bar_Mobile-Menu_010123.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Enjoy a complimentary Asian restaurant featuring freshly prepared noodles, delicious wok fried dishes, authentic soups and more. }} * {{eat | name=Taste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Serving a wide variety of cuisine, Taste offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere. Plus, with a menu that changes daily and carefully selected wine recommendations, you'll experience a different culinary adventure with every visit. }} === Paid === {{Eat|name=Cagney's Steakhouse|alt=Cagney's|url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-Cagneys_Dinner-Dessert-Mobile-Menu_021325.pdf|address=Deck 8|price=$60 Cover Charge per person, in addition to a 20% gratuity fee, and a beverage service charge.|lastedit=2025-03-22|content=Specializing in Premium Black Angus Beef and seafood, this American-style steakhouse has classic cocktails, and wines with attentive service.}} {{eat | name=Le Bistro | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Le_Bistro_Dinner_Dessert_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-06 | content=French Style Restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Teppanyaki | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Teppanyaki_Dinner_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Sit at a shared table as a chef perfectly prepares shrimp, steak, chicken and fried rice on a large steel grill. And you've got a front row seat to all the sizzles and surprises in the Japanese restaurant. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mixx Bar | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Mingle with new friends and enjoy live piano at Mixx, a modern classical, pre-dinner gathering place between two of our most popular dining spots. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== ===Mid-range=== ===Splurge=== ==Stay safe== == Stay healthy == There is a medical center deck 5 ==Connect== ==Cope== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo||}} brfc3nemavx2vdllfjb49y5u5xzr711 5091000 5090991 2025-07-10T18:20:09Z Someonehere12345 2299952 Added listing for Solo Studio 5091000 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''''Norwegian Breakaway''''' is a cruise ship of Norwegian Cruise Line. ==Understand == === History === The Norwegian Breakaway was one of two ships to be apart of Norwegian Cruise Line's "Project Breakaway" (The other being the Norwegian Getaway). It was first unveiled in [[Las Vegas]] with 2 stateroom designs (being the balcony and mini-suite staterooms) in June 2011 and construction first began in with the cutting of the first piece of steel in September 2011 where the ship was built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in [[Papenburg]], [[Lower Saxony]], [[Germany]]. At the time the Norwegian Breakaway was the largest passenger cruise ship to have been built in Germany. The Norwegian Breakaway had its maiden voyage on April 30,2013 from [[Rotterdam]],[[Netherlands]] to [[Southampton]],[[England]]. === Name === The Norwegian Breakaway's name was selected through a public contest that was held through American newspaper USA Today. ==Get in== You can get on the Norwegian Breakaway by booking a cruise either through a travel agent, using Norwegian Cruise Line's [https://www.ncl.com/ website] , or by calling +1-866-234-7350. ==Get around== The Norwegian Breakaway had 18 decks, 14 of which are open to the public, as the lowest 4 decks is areas for crew, storage, engine room, etc. You can get from floor to floor by either using the stairs, or the elevator. ==See== * ==Do== {{do | name=Headliners Comedy Club | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A couple walks into a bar and laughs the night away. This isn't the start of a joke, but the beginning of an evening at Headliners Comedy Club. }} ==Learn== ==Work== ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Art Gallery | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Eat== ===Free=== * {{eat | name=American Diner | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/American-Diner-B_Mobile-Menu_010224_0.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 16 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Pull up a chair at this 50’s style diner and order from a diverse selection of comfort foods. Experience a slice of Americana, including classic cars, with every bite. }} * {{eat | name=Garden Café | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 15 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Whatever you’re craving, chances are you will find it at the Garden Café. This complimentary, indoor buffet restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. }} * {{eat | name=The Haven Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Haven-Dinner_Mobile-Menu_040524.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free (Must be a guest of The Haven (see sleep listing) | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=Enjoy a private fine dining experience for guests of The Haven, serving unique signature dishes and wine offerings. }} * {{eat | name=The Manhattan Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=One of three Main Dining Rooms, The Manhattan Room is where guests can enjoy specially curated modern and classic dishes made with the freshest ingredients. }} * {{eat | name=O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-O-Sheehan_Mobile-Menu_010225.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours daily | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Dine on Irish pub classics while sipping your favorite draft beer, all in a casual atmosphere open 24 hours a day. There's no charge to dig into your favorite comfort foods such as Fish n’ Chips or throw some darts while taking in a sports game. }} * {{eat | name=Savor | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Balancing classic favorites with unique new dishes, dining at Savor is a must. Offering guests an extensive menu of deliciously fresh flavors along with chic and modern decor, visiting this Main Dining Room is always in style. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai's Noodle Bar | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Noodle-Bar_Mobile-Menu_010123.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Enjoy a complimentary Asian restaurant featuring freshly prepared noodles, delicious wok fried dishes, authentic soups and more. }} * {{eat | name=Taste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Serving a wide variety of cuisine, Taste offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere. Plus, with a menu that changes daily and carefully selected wine recommendations, you'll experience a different culinary adventure with every visit. }} === Paid === {{Eat|name=Cagney's Steakhouse|alt=Cagney's|url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-Cagneys_Dinner-Dessert-Mobile-Menu_021325.pdf|address=Deck 8|price=$60 Cover Charge per person, in addition to a 20% gratuity fee, and a beverage service charge.|lastedit=2025-03-22|content=Specializing in Premium Black Angus Beef and seafood, this American-style steakhouse has classic cocktails, and wines with attentive service.}} {{eat | name=Le Bistro | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Le_Bistro_Dinner_Dessert_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-06 | content=French Style Restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Teppanyaki | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Teppanyaki_Dinner_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Sit at a shared table as a chef perfectly prepares shrimp, steak, chicken and fried rice on a large steel grill. And you've got a front row seat to all the sizzles and surprises in the Japanese restaurant. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mixx Bar | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Mingle with new friends and enjoy live piano at Mixx, a modern classical, pre-dinner gathering place between two of our most popular dining spots. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Solo Studio | alt=Decks 10-11 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Specifically designed and priced for solo travelers, Studios feature a full-size bed, separate bath area and access to the private Studio Lounge — no single supplement required. }} ===Mid-range=== ===Splurge=== ==Stay safe== == Stay healthy == There is a medical center deck 5 ==Connect== ==Cope== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo||}} mpl4jsgytc1ss911aphbxsrct7jis56 5091001 5091000 2025-07-10T18:24:15Z Someonehere12345 2299952 /* Budget */ Updated listing for Solo Studio 5091001 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''''Norwegian Breakaway''''' is a cruise ship of Norwegian Cruise Line. ==Understand == === History === The Norwegian Breakaway was one of two ships to be apart of Norwegian Cruise Line's "Project Breakaway" (The other being the Norwegian Getaway). It was first unveiled in [[Las Vegas]] with 2 stateroom designs (being the balcony and mini-suite staterooms) in June 2011 and construction first began in with the cutting of the first piece of steel in September 2011 where the ship was built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in [[Papenburg]], [[Lower Saxony]], [[Germany]]. At the time the Norwegian Breakaway was the largest passenger cruise ship to have been built in Germany. The Norwegian Breakaway had its maiden voyage on April 30,2013 from [[Rotterdam]],[[Netherlands]] to [[Southampton]],[[England]]. === Name === The Norwegian Breakaway's name was selected through a public contest that was held through American newspaper USA Today. ==Get in== You can get on the Norwegian Breakaway by booking a cruise either through a travel agent, using Norwegian Cruise Line's [https://www.ncl.com/ website] , or by calling +1-866-234-7350. ==Get around== The Norwegian Breakaway had 18 decks, 14 of which are open to the public, as the lowest 4 decks is areas for crew, storage, engine room, etc. You can get from floor to floor by either using the stairs, or the elevator. ==See== * ==Do== {{do | name=Headliners Comedy Club | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A couple walks into a bar and laughs the night away. This isn't the start of a joke, but the beginning of an evening at Headliners Comedy Club. }} ==Learn== ==Work== ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Art Gallery | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Eat== ===Free=== * {{eat | name=American Diner | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/American-Diner-B_Mobile-Menu_010224_0.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 16 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Pull up a chair at this 50’s style diner and order from a diverse selection of comfort foods. Experience a slice of Americana, including classic cars, with every bite. }} * {{eat | name=Garden Café | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 15 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Whatever you’re craving, chances are you will find it at the Garden Café. This complimentary, indoor buffet restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. }} * {{eat | name=The Haven Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Haven-Dinner_Mobile-Menu_040524.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free (Must be a guest of The Haven (see sleep listing) | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=Enjoy a private fine dining experience for guests of The Haven, serving unique signature dishes and wine offerings. }} * {{eat | name=The Manhattan Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=One of three Main Dining Rooms, The Manhattan Room is where guests can enjoy specially curated modern and classic dishes made with the freshest ingredients. }} * {{eat | name=O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-O-Sheehan_Mobile-Menu_010225.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours daily | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Dine on Irish pub classics while sipping your favorite draft beer, all in a casual atmosphere open 24 hours a day. There's no charge to dig into your favorite comfort foods such as Fish n’ Chips or throw some darts while taking in a sports game. }} * {{eat | name=Savor | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Balancing classic favorites with unique new dishes, dining at Savor is a must. Offering guests an extensive menu of deliciously fresh flavors along with chic and modern decor, visiting this Main Dining Room is always in style. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai's Noodle Bar | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Noodle-Bar_Mobile-Menu_010123.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Enjoy a complimentary Asian restaurant featuring freshly prepared noodles, delicious wok fried dishes, authentic soups and more. }} * {{eat | name=Taste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Serving a wide variety of cuisine, Taste offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere. Plus, with a menu that changes daily and carefully selected wine recommendations, you'll experience a different culinary adventure with every visit. }} === Paid === {{Eat|name=Cagney's Steakhouse|alt=Cagney's|url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-Cagneys_Dinner-Dessert-Mobile-Menu_021325.pdf|address=Deck 8|price=$60 Cover Charge per person, in addition to a 20% gratuity fee, and a beverage service charge.|lastedit=2025-03-22|content=Specializing in Premium Black Angus Beef and seafood, this American-style steakhouse has classic cocktails, and wines with attentive service.}} {{eat | name=Le Bistro | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Le_Bistro_Dinner_Dessert_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-06 | content=French Style Restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Teppanyaki | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Teppanyaki_Dinner_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Sit at a shared table as a chef perfectly prepares shrimp, steak, chicken and fried rice on a large steel grill. And you've got a front row seat to all the sizzles and surprises in the Japanese restaurant. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mixx Bar | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Mingle with new friends and enjoy live piano at Mixx, a modern classical, pre-dinner gathering place between two of our most popular dining spots. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Solo Studio | alt=Decks 10-11 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Private keycard access complex comprised of staterooms specifically designed and priced for the solo traveler. Featuring a full-size bed, a one-way window to the corridor, and separate areas for your bathroom, sink and shower, in 100 square feet of living space. Includes access to the private Studio Lounge. No single supplement required. }} ===Mid-range=== ===Splurge=== ==Stay safe== == Stay healthy == There is a medical center deck 5 ==Connect== ==Cope== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo||}} 33141d6ubp08vrqx3nrze5lhae6f4aj 5091003 5091001 2025-07-10T18:26:35Z Someonehere12345 2299952 /* Budget */ Added listing for Inside 5091003 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''''Norwegian Breakaway''''' is a cruise ship of Norwegian Cruise Line. ==Understand == === History === The Norwegian Breakaway was one of two ships to be apart of Norwegian Cruise Line's "Project Breakaway" (The other being the Norwegian Getaway). It was first unveiled in [[Las Vegas]] with 2 stateroom designs (being the balcony and mini-suite staterooms) in June 2011 and construction first began in with the cutting of the first piece of steel in September 2011 where the ship was built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in [[Papenburg]], [[Lower Saxony]], [[Germany]]. At the time the Norwegian Breakaway was the largest passenger cruise ship to have been built in Germany. The Norwegian Breakaway had its maiden voyage on April 30,2013 from [[Rotterdam]],[[Netherlands]] to [[Southampton]],[[England]]. === Name === The Norwegian Breakaway's name was selected through a public contest that was held through American newspaper USA Today. ==Get in== You can get on the Norwegian Breakaway by booking a cruise either through a travel agent, using Norwegian Cruise Line's [https://www.ncl.com/ website] , or by calling +1-866-234-7350. ==Get around== The Norwegian Breakaway had 18 decks, 14 of which are open to the public, as the lowest 4 decks is areas for crew, storage, engine room, etc. You can get from floor to floor by either using the stairs, or the elevator. ==See== * ==Do== {{do | name=Headliners Comedy Club | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A couple walks into a bar and laughs the night away. This isn't the start of a joke, but the beginning of an evening at Headliners Comedy Club. }} ==Learn== ==Work== ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Art Gallery | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Eat== ===Free=== * {{eat | name=American Diner | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/American-Diner-B_Mobile-Menu_010224_0.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 16 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Pull up a chair at this 50’s style diner and order from a diverse selection of comfort foods. Experience a slice of Americana, including classic cars, with every bite. }} * {{eat | name=Garden Café | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 15 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Whatever you’re craving, chances are you will find it at the Garden Café. This complimentary, indoor buffet restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. }} * {{eat | name=The Haven Restaurant | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Haven-Dinner_Mobile-Menu_040524.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free (Must be a guest of The Haven (see sleep listing) | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=Enjoy a private fine dining experience for guests of The Haven, serving unique signature dishes and wine offerings. }} * {{eat | name=The Manhattan Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-07 | content=One of three Main Dining Rooms, The Manhattan Room is where guests can enjoy specially curated modern and classic dishes made with the freshest ingredients. }} * {{eat | name=O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-O-Sheehan_Mobile-Menu_010225.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours=24 hours daily | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Dine on Irish pub classics while sipping your favorite draft beer, all in a casual atmosphere open 24 hours a day. There's no charge to dig into your favorite comfort foods such as Fish n’ Chips or throw some darts while taking in a sports game. }} * {{eat | name=Savor | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Deck 7 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Balancing classic favorites with unique new dishes, dining at Savor is a must. Offering guests an extensive menu of deliciously fresh flavors along with chic and modern decor, visiting this Main Dining Room is always in style. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai's Noodle Bar | alt= | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Noodle-Bar_Mobile-Menu_010123.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Enjoy a complimentary Asian restaurant featuring freshly prepared noodles, delicious wok fried dishes, authentic soups and more. }} * {{eat | name=Taste | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-04-04 | content=Serving a wide variety of cuisine, Taste offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere. Plus, with a menu that changes daily and carefully selected wine recommendations, you'll experience a different culinary adventure with every visit. }} === Paid === {{Eat|name=Cagney's Steakhouse|alt=Cagney's|url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet-Cagneys_Dinner-Dessert-Mobile-Menu_021325.pdf|address=Deck 8|price=$60 Cover Charge per person, in addition to a 20% gratuity fee, and a beverage service charge.|lastedit=2025-03-22|content=Specializing in Premium Black Angus Beef and seafood, this American-style steakhouse has classic cocktails, and wines with attentive service.}} {{eat | name=Le Bistro | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Le_Bistro_Dinner_Dessert_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-06 | content=French Style Restaurant }} * {{eat | name=Teppanyaki | alt=Deck 6 | url=https://www.ncl.com/sites/default/files/Fleet_Teppanyaki_Dinner_Mobile_Menu_051925.pdf | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=$60 Cover Charge Per Person | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Sit at a shared table as a chef perfectly prepares shrimp, steak, chicken and fried rice on a large steel grill. And you've got a front row seat to all the sizzles and surprises in the Japanese restaurant. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Mixx Bar | alt=Deck 6 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Mingle with new friends and enjoy live piano at Mixx, a modern classical, pre-dinner gathering place between two of our most popular dining spots. }} ==Sleep== ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Solo Studio | alt=Decks 10-11 | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Private keycard access complex comprised of staterooms specifically designed and priced for the solo traveler. Featuring a full-size bed, a one-way window to the corridor, and separate areas for your bathroom, sink and shower, in 100 square feet of living space. Includes access to the private Studio Lounge. No single supplement required. }} * {{sleep | name=Inside | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=These staterooms include one or two lower beds that convert to a queen-size bed. Door opens to center interior corridor. Also has a TV, and a sitting area. If you get a solo room you will have access to the studio lounge }} ===Mid-range=== ===Splurge=== ==Stay safe== == Stay healthy == There is a medical center deck 5 ==Connect== ==Cope== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo||}} n643knuzn9eylc8nhiht9m7vbl9sts1 0 206231 5090833 5017379 2025-07-10T13:42:33Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090833 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bole Airport (Addis Ababa) banner.jpg|origin=0,0}} '''Bole International Airport''' is the main airport of [[Ethiopia]] and one of the busiest hubs in all of Africa. It is 6 km southeast from the centre of [[Addis Ababa]]. ==Understand== [[File:Bole international airport.jpg|thumb|]] Bole International Airport is the hub for Ethiopian Airlines, the largest airline in Africa. Ethiopian has several times more destinations than the other airlines combined, from African, European, Asian, North and South American destinations. If you travel nonstop from somewhere further away, you will fly on Ethiopian. Other than that, airlines from the Middle East, North and East Africa serve Addis Ababa from their home bases. The airport has over 500 flights per day and serves 22 million passengers per year. ==Flights== Bole has four terminals: {{Regionlist |region1name=Terminal 1 |region1color=#ff2c2c |region1description= Dedicated to domestic flights. |region2name=Terminal 2 |region2color=#ff7f00 |region2description= Dedicated to international flights. |region3name=Terminal 3 |region3color=#ff3b5c |region3description= Reserved for guests at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel. |region4name=Terminal 4 |region4color=#ff4c2c |region4description= The largest and newest terminal. }} ==Ground transportation== Access into the terminals is restricted, as of July 2019. Taxis and anyone who comes to meet you will be out in the carpark, though a dozen of the top hotels still have a booth inside the arrivals area. Similar rules apply at the other airports in the country, for both arrivals and departures. Many hotels will send a vehicle to pick up guests if you have arranged it. The Sheraton Addis, Dreamliner, Hilton Addis, most other hotels, and many popular guesthouses provide a regular shuttle service for guests. There is a public transport stop a bit outside, under the highway (Ring Road) bridge. As of 2024, the airport is still more than {{km|4}} from the closest '''Light Rail Transit''' station, which makes it unconnected in practice. That's not much less than the distance to central Addis, so for most travellers there's little use to go to and from the airport using light rail. In the future, a new line is planned to connect Bole Airport to the rest of the Light Rail Transit network. There are fixed '''taxi''' fee of 150-300 birr to get from the airport to practically any place in the city center, as of April 2024 <!-- according to the airport website-->. Taxi drivers gather in a parking lot next to the airport. Most likely they will approach you shouting "Taxi!" Legitimate drivers should have their car marked in yellow/green color and place a license in a visible place. Foreigners are often greeted by a throng of locals attempting to "help" load their luggage into cars. They're largely harmless and just looking for a tip, but it could be easy to lose a bag. An appropriate tip for a minor task like loading luggage into a car is 5 to 15 birr (ignore requests for more money just because you are a foreigner). If you have one person help you, twenty will ask for a tip. If you have a driver pick you up at the airport they will typically take care of any tips for you. Avoid walking alone around the airport, especially at night. ==Get around== ==Wait== Bole has three lounges at terminal 2 at gate A13: *{{listing | name=Cloud-9 Lounge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Terminal 2, at gate A13 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= Open 24/7 | price= | content=A lounge reserved for business class passengers.}} *{{listing | name=Sheba Platinum Lounge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Terminal 2, at gate A13 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= Open 24/7 | price= | content=A lounge reserved for ShebaMiles platinum members.}} *{{listing | name=Star Alliance Gold Lounge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Terminal 2, at gate A13 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= Open 24/7 | price= | content=A lounge reserved for ShebaMiles gold members and all other Star Alliance carriers’s gold members.}} ==Eat and drink== ===Terminal 2=== Cravings Restaurant & Bar ==Buy== ===Duty-free=== Alfarag Duty Free has duty-free luxury goods for sale in terminal 1 and 2. ==Connect== Wifi can be accessed anywhere in the airport for free, but you have to pay after 2 hours. ==Cope== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Ethiopian Skylight Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.ethiopianskylighthotel.com/ | email=reservation@ethiopianskylighthotel.com | address=Airport Road Addis Ababa 1755 | lat=8.98767 | long=38.7904 | directions= | phone=+251 11681 8181 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$160 | content=The Ethiopian Skylight Hotel is a 5-minute walk away from the airport, with an additional 97 rooms in the airport itself. }} ==Nearby== {{outlineairport}} {{geo|8.98322|38.79510}} {{IsPartOf|Central Ethiopia}} slrg0q10tshurorreobbazd0l9sg51i 5090875 5090833 2025-07-10T14:44:44Z Mrkstvns 144844 add IATA 5090875 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bole Airport (Addis Ababa) banner.jpg|origin=0,0}} '''Bole International Airport''' ({{IATA|ADD}}) is the main airport of [[Ethiopia]] and one of the busiest hubs in all of Africa. It is 6 km southeast from the centre of [[Addis Ababa]]. ==Understand== [[File:Bole international airport.jpg|thumb|]] Bole International Airport is the hub for Ethiopian Airlines, the largest airline in Africa. Ethiopian has several times more destinations than the other airlines combined, from African, European, Asian, North and South American destinations. If you travel nonstop from somewhere further away, you will fly on Ethiopian. Other than that, airlines from the Middle East, North and East Africa serve Addis Ababa from their home bases. The airport has over 500 flights per day and serves 22 million passengers per year. ==Flights== Bole has four terminals: {{Regionlist |region1name=Terminal 1 |region1color=#ff2c2c |region1description= Dedicated to domestic flights. |region2name=Terminal 2 |region2color=#ff7f00 |region2description= Dedicated to international flights. |region3name=Terminal 3 |region3color=#ff3b5c |region3description= Reserved for guests at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel. |region4name=Terminal 4 |region4color=#ff4c2c |region4description= The largest and newest terminal. }} ==Ground transportation== Access into the terminals is restricted, as of July 2019. Taxis and anyone who comes to meet you will be out in the carpark, though a dozen of the top hotels still have a booth inside the arrivals area. Similar rules apply at the other airports in the country, for both arrivals and departures. Many hotels will send a vehicle to pick up guests if you have arranged it. The Sheraton Addis, Dreamliner, Hilton Addis, most other hotels, and many popular guesthouses provide a regular shuttle service for guests. There is a public transport stop a bit outside, under the highway (Ring Road) bridge. As of 2024, the airport is still more than {{km|4}} from the closest '''Light Rail Transit''' station, which makes it unconnected in practice. That's not much less than the distance to central Addis, so for most travellers there's little use to go to and from the airport using light rail. In the future, a new line is planned to connect Bole Airport to the rest of the Light Rail Transit network. There are fixed '''taxi''' fee of 150-300 birr to get from the airport to practically any place in the city center, as of April 2024 <!-- according to the airport website-->. Taxi drivers gather in a parking lot next to the airport. Most likely they will approach you shouting "Taxi!" Legitimate drivers should have their car marked in yellow/green color and place a license in a visible place. Foreigners are often greeted by a throng of locals attempting to "help" load their luggage into cars. They're largely harmless and just looking for a tip, but it could be easy to lose a bag. An appropriate tip for a minor task like loading luggage into a car is 5 to 15 birr (ignore requests for more money just because you are a foreigner). If you have one person help you, twenty will ask for a tip. If you have a driver pick you up at the airport they will typically take care of any tips for you. Avoid walking alone around the airport, especially at night. ==Get around== ==Wait== Bole has three lounges at terminal 2 at gate A13: *{{listing | name=Cloud-9 Lounge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Terminal 2, at gate A13 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= Open 24/7 | price= | content=A lounge reserved for business class passengers.}} *{{listing | name=Sheba Platinum Lounge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Terminal 2, at gate A13 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= Open 24/7 | price= | content=A lounge reserved for ShebaMiles platinum members.}} *{{listing | name=Star Alliance Gold Lounge | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Terminal 2, at gate A13 | phone= | tollfree= | hours= Open 24/7 | price= | content=A lounge reserved for ShebaMiles gold members and all other Star Alliance carriers’s gold members.}} ==Eat and drink== ===Terminal 2=== Cravings Restaurant & Bar ==Buy== ===Duty-free=== Alfarag Duty Free has duty-free luxury goods for sale in terminal 1 and 2. ==Connect== Wifi can be accessed anywhere in the airport for free, but you have to pay after 2 hours. ==Cope== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Ethiopian Skylight Hotel | alt= | url=https://www.ethiopianskylighthotel.com/ | email=reservation@ethiopianskylighthotel.com | address=Airport Road Addis Ababa 1755 | lat=8.98767 | long=38.7904 | directions= | phone=+251 11681 8181 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=US$160 | content=The Ethiopian Skylight Hotel is a 5-minute walk away from the airport, with an additional 97 rooms in the airport itself. }} ==Nearby== {{outlineairport}} {{geo|8.98322|38.79510}} {{IsPartOf|Central Ethiopia}} t2kfxa9ln30d2d4vn3ftmkprmgwxw2j 0 208483 5090861 5090130 2025-07-10T14:22:59Z ChubbyWimbus 109402 /* Eat */ 5090861 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|大屋根リング夜景全景.jpg}} '''Expo 2025''' (大阪・関西万博 ''Osaka-Kansai Banpaku'') is the site of the [[World's Fair]] for 2025 in [[Osaka]], [[Japan]]. It will run for 6 months from April 13, 2025 until October 13, 2025. ==Understand== [[File:EXPO2025_null2_Appearance.jpg|thumb|null² Pavilion]] Osaka-Kansai 2025 is Japan's third Universal Exposition after Expo '70, also held in Osaka, and [[Expo 2005]] near [[Nagoya]]. The official theme is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". 28 million visitors are projected to attend the exposition, which is spread across 155 hectares on the artificial island of Yumeshima (夢洲, "Dream Island") in the [[Osaka/Bay Area|Bay Area]] district of Osaka. After the Expo is over, Yumeshima will see a different type of dream or nightmare come to life, as Japan's first casino is set to open here in 2030. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/ Event website] ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=14}} {{main|Osaka#Get in}} Visitors to the Expo will generally arrive via Japan's second largest city [[Osaka]], which is a well-connected major travel hub served by [[Kansai International Airport]] ({{IATA|KIX}}) and the JR Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train from [[Tokyo]]. See [[Osaka#Get in]] for the details. Once in Osaka, the Expo site is best accessed via {{marker|type=go|name=Yumeshima Station|wikidata=Q60987816}} (夢洲駅) on the Metro Chuo Line from central Osaka. There are also direct shuttle buses from Kansai and Itami airports as well as major train stations including Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen connections), Osaka and Namba. See [https://www.transport.expo2025.or.jp/en the official transport site] for schedules. ==Get around== Walking is the primary way to get around. Skateboards, scooters, roller skates, etc. are banned from being brought into the Expo. There is a bus that circles the Expo and stops near various points that requires a reservation in order to use. ==See== During the Expo, adult one-day ticket options include &yen;7500 for an unlimited full day ticket, &yen;6000 weekday tickets valid from 11:00, and &yen;3700 for "night tickets" valid from 17:00 on the ticket, but you can enter from 16:00. Discounted senior, student and group tickets are also available. Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. The sheer size of the Expo means that it is impossible to cover everything in one day, and access to some of the more popular events and pavilions is capacity controlled with several rather convoluted systems. Allow at least two days if you wish to visit all pavilions of interest. It is wise to choose in advance which of the high-profile sites you want to visit and get them reserved early, then fill in the gaps with the more low-key attractions. Lines tend to shorten as the Expo approaches closing time, although if you cut it too close you run the risk of not getting in at all. * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/private_pavilion/ Full list]. ===Grand Ring=== [[File:Oyane-ring southeast.jpg|thumb|The Grand Ring]] The {{marker|type=see|name=Grand Ring|wikidata=Q133959805}} is a 2 km timber structure and walkway that rises to a height of 20 metres. One of the world's largest wooden structures, it offers views of the entire exhibition area. People can walk freely under the ring, which has benches, vending machines, and a few shops. It also provides respite from summer heat and rain. Some pavilions located along the perimeter, such as Bulgaria and Italy, have their queues under the ring. The top of the ring can be accessed by a handful of escalators scattered around its perimeter or by stairs which can also be used in case of emergency. At the center of the exhibition area within the Grand Ring, [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/official-participant/ over 100 countries] have their own pavilions along with the Signature Pavilions. There are five "commons" buildings, which house multiple countries who don't have their own pavilions. They are scattered throughout the Grand Ring and its sections. The following zones are located within the Grand Ring. They include the pavilion number for easy map-checking as the official maps use the numbers. ====P: Empowering Lives Zone==== [[File:EXPO 2025 America Pavilion.jpg|thumb|USA Pavilion]] * '''Ireland''' (P01) - The building is designed to represent the Irish triskele. Inside there is a scent area where you can smell Irish plants, an exhibit about Lafcadio Hearn who was part Irish, and Irish folk music performances. * '''Malaysia''' (P02) - Begins with colorful cultural displays of foods from each region of the country followed by exhibits about the future. A highlight is the central tree made from traditional handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons A''' (P03) Features exhibits and shops of Barbados, Bolivia, Burundi, Comoros, Eswatini, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritius, North Macedonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Suriname, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Yemen * '''Jordan''' (P04) - Has videos of culture and tourist attractions, musical stones, and 22 tons of sand from [[Wadi Rum]] that visitors can walk on and touch. Although it is one of the small pavilions, the sand and interactive experiences have made it very popular. Waiting times can go past 2 hours. * '''Peru''' (P05) - Video about the history and culture followed by cultural object displays. * '''Advanced Air Mobility''' (p07) - A video about air mobility. Reservation required. * '''Mozambique''' (P08) - Video followed by displays of cultural objects. * '''Philippines''' (P09) - "Woven" is the theme, and the exterior features woven hammocks. Inside, there are weavings, and you can dance around as an AI plant. * '''United States'''(P11) - A star mascot and catchy theme song guide you through scenes from around the country before leading into exhibits about American space innovations. The theme song is in English for the English tours and in Japanese for Japanese tours. Chinese tours are also available twice per day. Has a restaurant. * '''France''' (P12) - An exhibit that alternates Louis Vuitton art installations and authentic Rodin hand sculptures. The odd combination of vapid consumerism and deep cultural heritage somehow manages to feel coherent and impressive. Has a restaurant. * '''Robot and Mobility''' (P14) - Showcases drones, cars, etc. with occasional demonstrations. * '''Vietnam''' (P15) - Small, with clothing, a recreated temple, and other objects and information. At certain times they perform traditional museum with the instruments on display. * '''Qatar''' (P17) - Designed to represent the nation's dhows, the inner exhibits also feature the country's relationship with the sea. * '''United Arab Emirates''' (P18) - Features giant pillars made of date palm trees, information is scattered about the spacious room with 3 rotating videos featured in the back. Has a restaurant. * '''Canada'''(P19) - Walk through ice bergs and other exhibits with a handheld VR tablet that will show various scenes of Canada when you point them at the physical objects. * '''Portugal''' (P20) - Themed around the ocean and the need to take better care of it. * '''Colombia''' (P21) - Butterfly lights on the ceiling guide you through the pavilion to view the actual typewriter used by Gabriel Garcia Martez to write the novel One Hundred Years of Solitude, a circle of objects from the country that you can touch, and an information room. Has a restaurant. * '''Switzerland''' (P22) - You can say your wish for the "future society" into a microphone and create a real bubble that takes your wish upwards * '''Austria''' (P23) - Video of musical history and musical touchscreens. * '''Brazil''' (P26) - Art installation in the main building featuring inflatables, exhibits about the country and paints available for you to paint tribal patterns on your face or hands. * '''Kuwait''' (P27) - Contains a video of a futuristic vision of the country and actual sand brought from the dessert that you can touch and compare to sand you've felt in Japan or elsewhere. * '''China''' (P28) - Animated videos of Chinese culture in a traditional painting-style and replicas of cultural treasures. * '''International Organizations Pavilion''' (P29) - World Expo Museum, ITER project, ASEAN * '''United Nations''' (P30) - History of the UN, how the UN effects people's lives, a video, and a shop. * '''Red Cross and Red Crescent''' (P31) - A video and information about what the organization does. * '''Bahrain''' (P34) - Contains a variety of objects made by craftsman and cultural objects. * '''Turkmenistan''' (P35) - Has a video about the country followed by some cultural objects. The colorful building featuring a white horse is considered to be one of the most eye-catching at the Expo. * '''Nordic''' (Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) (P36) - A glorified lounge; lots of space, not much to see. Has a restaurant. * '''Malta''' (P37) - Features videos of Malta's history and 3 authentic samurai armor suits gifted to Malta by Fukuzawa Yukichi in 1862 that have not been on display since they put in storage for safety during WWII. * '''Czech Republic''' (P38) - Built with materials from the Czech Republic, such as spruce and Bohemian glass. Artwork lines the walls and art using the glass is also featured. ====X: Signature Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-DYNAMIC EQUILIBRIUM OF LIFE-pavilion.jpg|thumb|Dynamic Equilibrium of Life Pavilion]] * '''Better Co-Being''' (X01) - An open-air exhibit of various art installations intended to bring people closer together, the daytime experience feels more in touch with nature while the nighttime experience feels more otherworldy. Reservation required. * '''Future of Life''' (X02) - Gives history of projecting life onto objects ending in robots and AI from where it introduces ideas of a future in which robots and humans live among each other. It follows the mental struggle of an elderly woman who must decide between dying a natural death or placing her memories inside a robot as a gift to her granddaughter so that she can continue to interact with "her" even after she passes. It posing questions about what is life and what does it mean to be human. It ends with robots emerging from peach-like structures, meant to evoke the Momotaro folktale, where you can see their expressions up close as they move and gesture towards you to show that robots are already capable of invoking emotion and response from you to further push visitors to confront discomforts surrounding robots. Reservation required. * '''Jellyfish Pavilion''' (X03) - A fun pavilion to relax in; it's especially pretty at night when it's lit up. * {{see | name=OCHIAI Yoichi's Signature Pavilion "Forging Lives" null² | alt=X04 | url=https://expo2025.digitalnatureandarts.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q134286794 | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content= Has two completely different experiences. The Installation tour is a 10 minute sound and visual art display. The Dialogue tour creates an AI version of you that you can communicate with and it will replicate you. Reservation required. }} * '''Dynamic Equilibrium of Life''' (X05) - The "dynamic equilibrium" is defined as "a system that is in constant change yet is balanced as a whole". This concept is artfully illustrated through a narrated (Japanese and English) light show. Reservation required. * '''Live Earth Journey: Totality of Life''' (X06) - A virtual reality experience. Reservation required. * '''Earth Mart''' (X07) - Attempts to show how we can eat sutainably through projections and a variety of interactive exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Dialogue of Theater''' (X08) - One participant is chosen from the crowd to engage in a dialogue with someone on video from elsewhere in Japan. Each of the 184 days of the Expo, the question that the two people must answer and discuss is different. The idea is to bridge divides by talking and engaging rather than dissociating. Because the participants are randomly chosen, every session's discussion is different and it is unknown to what exent the participants will be "divided" if at all. Reservation required. ====S: Saving Lives Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-HungaryPavilion.jpg|thumb|Hungary Pavilion]] * '''Commons C''' (S01) - Feaures exhibits from Croatia, Gabon, Guatemala, Israel, Montenegro, Panama, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Uruguay. Has a Gabon restaurant. * '''Chile''' (S02) - Mostly empty room with weavings on the ceiling. * '''Tunisia''' (S03) - Makes good use of the small pavilion with projections and the opportunity to have your name written in Arabic, inscribe your name on a plate, or get handmade pottery from the man outside. Has a restaurant. * '''Cambodia''' (S04) - Recreates parts of a stone temple with a replica of Angkor Wat in the center. * '''Algeria''' (S05) - A video with an AI child. * '''Baltic''' (Latvia and Lithuania) (S06) - Medicinal herbs from these countries and art featuring their mascot. Estonia did not participate. * '''European Union''' (S07) - Has a machine-tended zen rock garden and colorful flower and origami exhibits. * '''Belgium''' (S08) Free Biscoff cookie when entering. Focuses on Belgium's importance in medical innovation and technology. * '''Italy and the Holy See''' (S09) - The theme is "Art Regenerates Life". The Italian part features authentic paintings and sculptures from Michaelangelo, pages from the Da Vinci Codex, Olympic Torches. The 16th century painting "Portrait of Ito Mancio" by Domenico Tintoretto commemorates the first diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. The Vatican contributed Caravaggio's painting "The Deposition" (also commonly called "The Entombment of Christ"), which depicts Christ being laid on th Anointing Stone by Nocodemus, John, and holy women. It is considered to be Caravaggio's best work. Although the authentic artwork is the highlight, the pavilion also features videos, Italian craftwork, modern inventions, and a rooftop garden. This is the most popular pavilion at the Expo. Reservations are available but not required. Without a reservation, expect 3+ hour wait on weekdays and 4+ hour wait on weekends. Has a restaurant. * '''Singapore''' (S11) - Focused around dreams, it's an interactive exhibit that allows you to write down your dream and then move into the projection dome where your dream will appear to help build the city. * '''Bulgaria''' (S12) - In Japan, Bulgaria is synonymous with yogurt in the most literal sense; "Bulgaria" is the name of a popular yogurt brand. Bulgaria introduced yogurt to Japan at the 1970 Expo. Because of this association, the pavilion uses yogurt and its bacteria as the base from which to introduce ideas about different cultures working together for the betterment of society like the good yogurt bacteria does in the human body. There is also a video where you can see the wishes of those who previously visited and you can use the QR code in the pavilion to write your own wishes for the next groups to read. English tours at 18:00 each day, arrive a few minutes early and tell the staff (do not get in the queue if you are doing the English tour). * '''Netherlands''' (S13) - Carrying a glowing orb as your guide, you'll learn about the history of the Netherlands' relationship with its waterways, from hardships to modern innovations intended to harness its power. Reservations required after 11:00. * '''Commons D''' (S14) - Features exhibits from Antigua and Barbuda, Cameroon, Cuba, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Honduras, Laos, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Mongolia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Tajikistan, Togo, Burkina Faso, Belize, and Bhutan * '''Oman''' (S15) - Projection mappings and a video. Has a restaurant. * '''Hungary''' (S16) - Local flora and a concert by a folk singer. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons E''' (S17) - Features art exhibits. * '''Poland''' (S20) - Flower projections and art made with traditional Polish goods. * '''Romania''' (S21) A video, live performance, and exhibits of traditional woodwork and handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''United Kingdom''' (S22) - Themed around dreams as "building blocks", follows a block mascot and daughter talking to her father in the UK. Features an interactive game. Has a restaurant. * '''Angola''' (S23) Opened in late June, the pavilion features a video story about a girl with malaria that promotes a future where modern medicine without devaluing traditional medicine. After that, you can listen to different people speak about various topics. Has a restaurant. ====C: Connecting Lives Zone==== [[File:韓国 パビリオン.jpg|thumb|Korea Pavilion]] * '''Nepal''' (C01) (not open as of June 2025) * '''Luxembourg''' (C02) - A video about life in Luxembourg, exhibits about Luxembourg as "the heart of Europe" * '''Germany''' (C03) - Carrying a light-up mascot of the pavilion, it will guide you in the language of your choice (Japanese, English, or German). The pavilion focuses on sustainability and solving modern problems, such as what to do with abandoned city housing. Roll your mascot down a chute to exit the pavilion. * '''Korea''' (C04) - A sound and light show, green energy art displays, and video * '''Commons F''' (C05) - Features exhibits from Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Brunei Darussalam * '''Azerbaijan''' (C07) - Arguably one of the most beautiful from the outside with its white arches and wooden ethnic dancers that spin over water between each arch, inside there is a rather long video followed by a hall of cultural objects from the country. Has a restaurant. * '''Monaco''' (C10) - Consists of 3 separate buildings, the first featuring a video of Monaco's culture, sensory touching, and a tacky VR experience. The others are located along an outside path with small gardens and interactive play spaces. They feature a maritime protection building with an attractive central pillar and projections and another small building with touch panels to learn more about the country. Has a wine bar. * '''Turkey''' (C11) - The main intrigue is the illuminated sun and moon, the sun representing Japan and the moon representing Turkey. The outside Turkish ice cream and Turkish food vendor are more popular than the pavilion itself. * '''Thailand''' (C12) - After a video introduction, the exhibits focus on food. Reservations for Thai massages can be made. Has a restaurant. * '''Spain''' (C13) - Exhibits about the ocean followed by a vibrant orange room with some postcards. * '''Saudi Arabia''' (C14) - Arabian architecture, multiple buildings with different exhibits and a central area where performances and demonstrations are held. Project-mapping is done of the buildings at night. Has a cafe. * '''Australia''' (C15) - Recreates a forest with video representations of local animals appearing in the trees. * '''Indonesia''' (C16) - A Sumatran forest with unique animals scattered about, a thoughtful video, and authentic blades from various ethnic groups * '''India''' (C17) - The pavilion was built to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of Enlightenment. Inside there are videos about Indian innovations along with Indian cultural objects. * '''Uzbekistan''' (C18) - Introduces the culture of the country before taking you to the roof which utilizes the same wood as the Grand Ring in its own unique design. * '''Serbia''' (C19) - "Understanding through play" is the theme, so it features a variety of interactive exhibits. * '''Bangladesh''' (C20) - Various objects around the room with a video in the back. * '''Senegal''' (C21) - Words on the wall about the country and a shop. * '''Egypt''' (C22) - Video projections of famous Egyptian sites. * '''Commons B''' (C23) - Features exhibits from Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Guyana, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Djibouti, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Somalia, Tanzania, Chad, Central African Republic, Tuvalu, Dominica, Nauru, Haiti, Paraguay, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Benin, Micronesia, Mauritania, and Lesotho. ====F: Forest of Tranquility==== [[File:Expo2025静けさの森、中心部の池.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Forest of Tranquility]] An attractive forest with paths for visitors to explore in the center of the inner ring. It consists of trees that were scheduled for thinning from Expo 70 Commemoration Park in [[Suita]] along with trees transplanted from other parks around Osaka Prefecture, including Osaka Castle Park. For passport stamp collectors, the Forest of Tranquility is one of the only venues that does not have a stamp. This is on purpose; frantic stamp collecting is neither relaxing nor tranquil. ===Outside the Grand Ring=== The following are venues located outside the grand ring representing Japan with the Japan Pavilion, Kansai Pavilion, and 12 Japanese megacorps pavilions, along with other non-country pavilions, such as the Women's Pavilion. These are typically highlights of the exposition, with Bandai's GUNDAM Pavilion guaranteed to draw crowds. They are well worth visiting but nearly all require reservations, so temper your expectations. You'll need multiple days with lots of lottery luck if you plan to enter more than just a few. ====E: East Gate Zone==== * '''Kansai''' (E01) Features some of the traditional prefectures that make up Kansai ([[Shiga]], [[Mie]], [[Wakayama (prefecture)|Wakayama]], [[Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]], [[Hyogo]], along with [[Tottori (prefecture)|Tottori]], [[Fukui (prefecture)|Fukui]], and [[Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima]]. Each prefecture has its own exhibition space branching off from the center. There is a [[Nara (prefecture)|Nara]] stamp for collectors however, Nara does not have an exhibition space. Osaka is not featured because the Expo is in Osaka and one hope of the pavilion is to inspire visitors to explore other prefectures. The exhibitions and features change throughout the festival, but the overall experience is similar: **Shiga: A 20 minute video with floating ball art. **Mie: Walk through a tunnel with projection-mappings of prefectural beauty followed by interactive exhibits where you can open doors and turn flaps to see and learn about famous places, objects, products, animals, and nature from the prefecture. **Wakayama: Large taiko drums for performances. **Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]]: Features local lacquerware art and products. **Hyogo: A video of prefectural highlights **Tottori: Using a magnifying glass, as a nod to Detective Conan whose creator is from [[Hokuei]], you first walk on sand from the Tottori Sand Dunes to find and learn about various things from the prefecture followed by a projection-mapping show over the sand. **Fukui: Using digital flashlights, you can find dinosaur fossils and then shine your light on Fukui dinosaurs, such as Fukuititan and Fukuiraptors, as they move around you. **Tokushima: Known for its indigo dyes, visitors can dip a thread into indigo dye and tie it to a traditional drying rack. There are also some cultural objects and a few interaction displays that you can feel and smell. Reservation required. * '''Osaka Healthcare''' (E02) - Has information about Japanese innovations in healthcare, demonstrations of a self-washer (an updated one from that which was featured at the 1970s Expo), and a body scan that creates an AI version of you and tells you where your health will likely take you in 2050. Reservations required, different reservations exist for regular entry versus regular entry plus the 2050 avatar experience. * '''NTT''' (E03) - Starts with a 3-D glasses video of the music group Perfume singing followed by a video show using the bodies of those in the room. Outside there are old-fashioned phones inside phone booths that play various sounds when you dial the numbers. Reservation required (outside phones can be used by anyone). * '''Mitsubishi''' (E05) - A video. Reservation required. * '''Panasonic Group - The Land of Nomo''' (E06) - Walk through with a crystal that you can use to interact with various exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Sumitomo''' (E07) - With the theme "The Unknown Forest", it begins with a video that sets the tone and setting of the forest before visitors are able to explore the unknown forest themselves on a walk with hand-held lanterns. Reservation required. * '''Electric Power - Eggs of Possibilities''' (E08) - Walk through the pavilion holding a glowing egg. There is a light show as well as interactive exhibits, some of which require use of your egg. Reservation required. * '''Women's Pavilion in Collaboration with Cartier''' (E09) - Using an audio guide (English option available), visitors are randomly separated into three groups to follow the story of one of three women before reuniting to read timelines of recent achievements by women, improvements in laws protecting women, and female firsts. Lastly, there is a room with various people (including men) with holes in their chests that you reach into to hear their stories. Reservations possible but not required. * '''Japan''' (E10) - With an attractive architectural design, the building has excellent visual exhibits showcasing Japanese innovations related to sustainability, such as plastic disintegration and algae, including the Hello Kitty algae display that for many became symbols of the Expo alongside the mascot. The pavilion is informative yet also artistic. Non-reservations from 9:00-11:00 and 19:30-21:00, Reservation required during daytime. * '''EXPO Hall "Shining Hat"''' (E11) - Has projection-mapping on the outside at night. * '''EXPO National Day Hall "Ray Garden"''' (E12) - A National Day is held for each country participating in the Expo. This is where they hold those performances. Nearly every day is a "national day". Visitors can check the website to see if their visit day coincides with a National Day that interests them. * '''Gallery EAST''' (E13) - A small showcase of paintings and cultural objects. ====W: West Gate Zone==== * '''Tech World (Taiwan)''' (W02) - Taiwan is not permitted to have a pavilion under its name, so in spite of the name "Tech World", this is Taiwan's pavilion. It features a projection-mapping about its nature and information about its technology with a focus on IC chips. * '''Gas Pavilion Obake Wonderland''' (W03) - "Ghost Wonderland". With a VR headset, you become a ghost and can interact with your surroundings as you navigate the world. Lessons about human waste manifest in the CO2 monster that must be destroyed. Popular with children. Reservation required. * '''Iida Group''' (W04) - Videos and models of their vision of future Smart Homes surrounded by circles (much like the Grand Ring) that contain grocery stores, shopping malls, and other necessities and entertainment for those in the apartments. * '''ORA Gaishoku''' (W05) - A dining facility showcasing Osaka foods. It contains a variety of Japanese cultural objects including an entire float from the Nebuta Festival in [[Aomori]]. * '''Blue Ocean Dome''' (W06) - Follow water droplets through a Pythagorean device also known as a Rube Goldberg machine-style contraption followed by a video. Reservation required. * '''Gundam NEXT Future''' (W07) - Uses videos to make you feel like you're inside a Gundam looking out during a battle. Reservation required. * '''Pasona Natureverse''' (W09) - Utilizes Astro Boy, a former vision of the future, to introduce a "Neo-Astro Boy", with exhibits about life-giving medicine. One of the highlights is a real lab-grown beating heart made from IPS cells. The Astro Boy statue sitting on the building is a popular photo op. * '''Yoshiimoto waraii myraii''' (W10) - Described as a waste of space by adults, children enjoy rolling down the slopes on the outside. * '''EXPO Exhibition Center "WASSE"''' (W11) - A space that is used for events, gatherings, and limited-time exhibitions. ====L: Future Life Zone==== The Future Life Village houses most of the featured sites, so they are more like booths or areas rather than individual pavilions. Most exhibits in this area are scheduled to change monthly, so there isn't a set experience and those who have visited before can have a different experience if they visit in a different month. * '''Gallery West''' (L01) - Has a small indoor display and VR experience and an outdoor space that is used for events throughout the expo. * '''Future Life Experience''' (L02) - Exhibits of how culture, food, and healthcare may look in the future. * '''Team Expo''' (L03) - Focuses on promoting people to take action in their lives on goals set for the future. * '''Mobility Experience''' (L04) - The launching and landing place of the advanced mobility aircraft. * '''Future City''' (L05) - A virtual experience of "The City of Happiness" which is set up much like the expo with a ring around central apartments and restaurants, shops, and a park located on the ring and around the buildings to create a small, self-contained living space with all of one's essentials very close by. * '''Expo Arena "Matsuri"''' (L06) - A large open space with a central stage for concerts and large events. * '''Junior SDG Camp''' (L07) - The actual Junior SDGs Camp is for schools however for stamp collectors, this one is stamped via an 11.5kg concrete weight. * '''Expo Sauna "Taiyo's Tsubomi"''' (L08) - Described as an "experimental sauna ritual", it utilizes heat from the sun to create the sauna's heat. The "ritual" comes from the way you use it. A guide takes visitors through each of the sauna's experiences in the order you're meant to use them. Scents and sounds are used, and the facilities come with instructions, such as a bath where you are to submerge at least up to your ears in order to experience not just the bath but also the sounds that are meant to have soothing effects. Only 100 people can enter per day. ==Do== [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/events/ Numerous events] big and small are held during the Expo. The most easily accessible is the '''One World, One Planet''' show, a synchronized show of sound, lighting and projection mapping across the entire venue, held daily after sunset. ==Buy== [[File:Myaku-Myaku Expo 2025 (best mascot ever).jpg|thumb|Myaku-Myaku]] The Expo's official mascot is '''Myaku-Myaku''' (ミャクミャク), a bizarre cross between a multi-eyed amoeba and a donut. Gift shops are featured throughout the site, including by the gates, which feature the mascot as many different products. There are also many corporate collaborations featuring the mascot, such as Sanrio characters in a costume of the mascot. Many country pavilions have small gift shops retailing local products, and you can pick up corporate merchandise at most of the company pavilions. ==Eat== Many pavilions will have places to eat featuring their own nation's foods. There are also scattered food trucks, tents, and food courts. The '''ORA Gaishoku''' in the West Gate Zone (''see above'') is a pavilion that is entirely a dining facility, featuring Osaka cuisine. The '''Kura-zushi''' is particularly popular. Conveyer-belt sushi was actually first introduced at Osaka's 1970s Expo, so it was een as fitting to include it upon the Expo's return to the city. The highlight at this Expo is that it features sushi with foods and flavors from over 70 countries, all of which are participating in the Expo. There are 338 seats, making it the largest Kura-zushi restaurant. Reservations are required. A visitor poll actually showed that '''bento's from home''' were the most popular food to eat. When it comes to bringing food and drinks, the food can stay in your bags and be run through the x-rays as normal. Drinks need to be removed from your bags and shown to the security staff at the entrance. If your drink is sealed, you can go through easily. If it is not sealed, they may have you drink some in front of them to prove it is a beverage. They have the authority to confiscate drinks that they deem suspicious, but this is not an issue for most people, and if it does occur, you can purchase drinks at vending machines or convenience stores inside the Expo. ==Drink== There are vending machines throughout the Expo and convenience stores to get drinks to stay hydrated. For alcohol, some country pavilions have their own local beers and wines. Most sit-down restaurants in the pavilion have some alchohol on offer. In addition, there are fun non-alcoholic but exotic drinks not typically available in Japan, such as camel milk at the UAE Pavilion and baobab juice at the African Restaurant, Panaf. ==Sleep== There is no lodging available on site, but it's located in [[Osaka]], which has a wide variety of hotels. Reserve as early as possible. {{guideevent}} {{PartOfTopic|Calendar of events and festivals|Japan}} 3la4e6e5nv3yu4mtbq11o8mojisll2t 5090862 5090861 2025-07-10T14:27:28Z ChubbyWimbus 109402 /* Get in */ 5090862 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|大屋根リング夜景全景.jpg}} '''Expo 2025''' (大阪・関西万博 ''Osaka-Kansai Banpaku'') is the site of the [[World's Fair]] for 2025 in [[Osaka]], [[Japan]]. It will run for 6 months from April 13, 2025 until October 13, 2025. ==Understand== [[File:EXPO2025_null2_Appearance.jpg|thumb|null² Pavilion]] Osaka-Kansai 2025 is Japan's third Universal Exposition after Expo '70, also held in Osaka, and [[Expo 2005]] near [[Nagoya]]. The official theme is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". 28 million visitors are projected to attend the exposition, which is spread across 155 hectares on the artificial island of Yumeshima (夢洲, "Dream Island") in the [[Osaka/Bay Area|Bay Area]] district of Osaka. After the Expo is over, Yumeshima will see a different type of dream or nightmare come to life, as Japan's first casino is set to open here in 2030. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/ Event website] ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=14}} {{main|Osaka#Get in}} Visitors to the Expo will generally arrive via Japan's second largest city [[Osaka]], which is a well-connected major travel hub served by [[Kansai International Airport]] ({{IATA|KIX}}) and the JR Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train from [[Tokyo]]. See [[Osaka#Get in]] for the details. Once in Osaka, the Expo site is best accessed via {{marker|type=go|name=Yumeshima Station|wikidata=Q60987816}} (夢洲駅) on the Metro Chuo Line from central Osaka. There are also direct shuttle buses from Kansai and Itami airports as well as major train stations including Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen connections), Osaka and Namba. See [https://www.transport.expo2025.or.jp/en the official transport site] for schedules. When you get to the Expo, you will be asked to go through a scanner similar to you would at an airport. You need to remove any drinks from your bags to be checked. Once you are through security, you must present your QR Code ticket. A screenshot of your QR code ticket also suffices. ==Get around== Walking is the primary way to get around. Skateboards, scooters, roller skates, etc. are banned from being brought into the Expo. There is a bus that circles the Expo and stops near various points that requires a reservation in order to use. ==See== During the Expo, adult one-day ticket options include &yen;7500 for an unlimited full day ticket, &yen;6000 weekday tickets valid from 11:00, and &yen;3700 for "night tickets" valid from 17:00 on the ticket, but you can enter from 16:00. Discounted senior, student and group tickets are also available. Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. The sheer size of the Expo means that it is impossible to cover everything in one day, and access to some of the more popular events and pavilions is capacity controlled with several rather convoluted systems. Allow at least two days if you wish to visit all pavilions of interest. It is wise to choose in advance which of the high-profile sites you want to visit and get them reserved early, then fill in the gaps with the more low-key attractions. Lines tend to shorten as the Expo approaches closing time, although if you cut it too close you run the risk of not getting in at all. * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/private_pavilion/ Full list]. ===Grand Ring=== [[File:Oyane-ring southeast.jpg|thumb|The Grand Ring]] The {{marker|type=see|name=Grand Ring|wikidata=Q133959805}} is a 2 km timber structure and walkway that rises to a height of 20 metres. One of the world's largest wooden structures, it offers views of the entire exhibition area. People can walk freely under the ring, which has benches, vending machines, and a few shops. It also provides respite from summer heat and rain. Some pavilions located along the perimeter, such as Bulgaria and Italy, have their queues under the ring. The top of the ring can be accessed by a handful of escalators scattered around its perimeter or by stairs which can also be used in case of emergency. At the center of the exhibition area within the Grand Ring, [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/official-participant/ over 100 countries] have their own pavilions along with the Signature Pavilions. There are five "commons" buildings, which house multiple countries who don't have their own pavilions. They are scattered throughout the Grand Ring and its sections. The following zones are located within the Grand Ring. They include the pavilion number for easy map-checking as the official maps use the numbers. ====P: Empowering Lives Zone==== [[File:EXPO 2025 America Pavilion.jpg|thumb|USA Pavilion]] * '''Ireland''' (P01) - The building is designed to represent the Irish triskele. Inside there is a scent area where you can smell Irish plants, an exhibit about Lafcadio Hearn who was part Irish, and Irish folk music performances. * '''Malaysia''' (P02) - Begins with colorful cultural displays of foods from each region of the country followed by exhibits about the future. A highlight is the central tree made from traditional handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons A''' (P03) Features exhibits and shops of Barbados, Bolivia, Burundi, Comoros, Eswatini, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritius, North Macedonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Suriname, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Yemen * '''Jordan''' (P04) - Has videos of culture and tourist attractions, musical stones, and 22 tons of sand from [[Wadi Rum]] that visitors can walk on and touch. Although it is one of the small pavilions, the sand and interactive experiences have made it very popular. Waiting times can go past 2 hours. * '''Peru''' (P05) - Video about the history and culture followed by cultural object displays. * '''Advanced Air Mobility''' (p07) - A video about air mobility. Reservation required. * '''Mozambique''' (P08) - Video followed by displays of cultural objects. * '''Philippines''' (P09) - "Woven" is the theme, and the exterior features woven hammocks. Inside, there are weavings, and you can dance around as an AI plant. * '''United States'''(P11) - A star mascot and catchy theme song guide you through scenes from around the country before leading into exhibits about American space innovations. The theme song is in English for the English tours and in Japanese for Japanese tours. Chinese tours are also available twice per day. Has a restaurant. * '''France''' (P12) - An exhibit that alternates Louis Vuitton art installations and authentic Rodin hand sculptures. The odd combination of vapid consumerism and deep cultural heritage somehow manages to feel coherent and impressive. Has a restaurant. * '''Robot and Mobility''' (P14) - Showcases drones, cars, etc. with occasional demonstrations. * '''Vietnam''' (P15) - Small, with clothing, a recreated temple, and other objects and information. At certain times they perform traditional museum with the instruments on display. * '''Qatar''' (P17) - Designed to represent the nation's dhows, the inner exhibits also feature the country's relationship with the sea. * '''United Arab Emirates''' (P18) - Features giant pillars made of date palm trees, information is scattered about the spacious room with 3 rotating videos featured in the back. Has a restaurant. * '''Canada'''(P19) - Walk through ice bergs and other exhibits with a handheld VR tablet that will show various scenes of Canada when you point them at the physical objects. * '''Portugal''' (P20) - Themed around the ocean and the need to take better care of it. * '''Colombia''' (P21) - Butterfly lights on the ceiling guide you through the pavilion to view the actual typewriter used by Gabriel Garcia Martez to write the novel One Hundred Years of Solitude, a circle of objects from the country that you can touch, and an information room. Has a restaurant. * '''Switzerland''' (P22) - You can say your wish for the "future society" into a microphone and create a real bubble that takes your wish upwards * '''Austria''' (P23) - Video of musical history and musical touchscreens. * '''Brazil''' (P26) - Art installation in the main building featuring inflatables, exhibits about the country and paints available for you to paint tribal patterns on your face or hands. * '''Kuwait''' (P27) - Contains a video of a futuristic vision of the country and actual sand brought from the dessert that you can touch and compare to sand you've felt in Japan or elsewhere. * '''China''' (P28) - Animated videos of Chinese culture in a traditional painting-style and replicas of cultural treasures. * '''International Organizations Pavilion''' (P29) - World Expo Museum, ITER project, ASEAN * '''United Nations''' (P30) - History of the UN, how the UN effects people's lives, a video, and a shop. * '''Red Cross and Red Crescent''' (P31) - A video and information about what the organization does. * '''Bahrain''' (P34) - Contains a variety of objects made by craftsman and cultural objects. * '''Turkmenistan''' (P35) - Has a video about the country followed by some cultural objects. The colorful building featuring a white horse is considered to be one of the most eye-catching at the Expo. * '''Nordic''' (Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) (P36) - A glorified lounge; lots of space, not much to see. Has a restaurant. * '''Malta''' (P37) - Features videos of Malta's history and 3 authentic samurai armor suits gifted to Malta by Fukuzawa Yukichi in 1862 that have not been on display since they put in storage for safety during WWII. * '''Czech Republic''' (P38) - Built with materials from the Czech Republic, such as spruce and Bohemian glass. Artwork lines the walls and art using the glass is also featured. ====X: Signature Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-DYNAMIC EQUILIBRIUM OF LIFE-pavilion.jpg|thumb|Dynamic Equilibrium of Life Pavilion]] * '''Better Co-Being''' (X01) - An open-air exhibit of various art installations intended to bring people closer together, the daytime experience feels more in touch with nature while the nighttime experience feels more otherworldy. Reservation required. * '''Future of Life''' (X02) - Gives history of projecting life onto objects ending in robots and AI from where it introduces ideas of a future in which robots and humans live among each other. It follows the mental struggle of an elderly woman who must decide between dying a natural death or placing her memories inside a robot as a gift to her granddaughter so that she can continue to interact with "her" even after she passes. It posing questions about what is life and what does it mean to be human. It ends with robots emerging from peach-like structures, meant to evoke the Momotaro folktale, where you can see their expressions up close as they move and gesture towards you to show that robots are already capable of invoking emotion and response from you to further push visitors to confront discomforts surrounding robots. Reservation required. * '''Jellyfish Pavilion''' (X03) - A fun pavilion to relax in; it's especially pretty at night when it's lit up. * {{see | name=OCHIAI Yoichi's Signature Pavilion "Forging Lives" null² | alt=X04 | url=https://expo2025.digitalnatureandarts.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q134286794 | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content= Has two completely different experiences. The Installation tour is a 10 minute sound and visual art display. The Dialogue tour creates an AI version of you that you can communicate with and it will replicate you. Reservation required. }} * '''Dynamic Equilibrium of Life''' (X05) - The "dynamic equilibrium" is defined as "a system that is in constant change yet is balanced as a whole". This concept is artfully illustrated through a narrated (Japanese and English) light show. Reservation required. * '''Live Earth Journey: Totality of Life''' (X06) - A virtual reality experience. Reservation required. * '''Earth Mart''' (X07) - Attempts to show how we can eat sutainably through projections and a variety of interactive exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Dialogue of Theater''' (X08) - One participant is chosen from the crowd to engage in a dialogue with someone on video from elsewhere in Japan. Each of the 184 days of the Expo, the question that the two people must answer and discuss is different. The idea is to bridge divides by talking and engaging rather than dissociating. Because the participants are randomly chosen, every session's discussion is different and it is unknown to what exent the participants will be "divided" if at all. Reservation required. ====S: Saving Lives Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-HungaryPavilion.jpg|thumb|Hungary Pavilion]] * '''Commons C''' (S01) - Feaures exhibits from Croatia, Gabon, Guatemala, Israel, Montenegro, Panama, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Uruguay. Has a Gabon restaurant. * '''Chile''' (S02) - Mostly empty room with weavings on the ceiling. * '''Tunisia''' (S03) - Makes good use of the small pavilion with projections and the opportunity to have your name written in Arabic, inscribe your name on a plate, or get handmade pottery from the man outside. Has a restaurant. * '''Cambodia''' (S04) - Recreates parts of a stone temple with a replica of Angkor Wat in the center. * '''Algeria''' (S05) - A video with an AI child. * '''Baltic''' (Latvia and Lithuania) (S06) - Medicinal herbs from these countries and art featuring their mascot. Estonia did not participate. * '''European Union''' (S07) - Has a machine-tended zen rock garden and colorful flower and origami exhibits. * '''Belgium''' (S08) Free Biscoff cookie when entering. Focuses on Belgium's importance in medical innovation and technology. * '''Italy and the Holy See''' (S09) - The theme is "Art Regenerates Life". The Italian part features authentic paintings and sculptures from Michaelangelo, pages from the Da Vinci Codex, Olympic Torches. The 16th century painting "Portrait of Ito Mancio" by Domenico Tintoretto commemorates the first diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. The Vatican contributed Caravaggio's painting "The Deposition" (also commonly called "The Entombment of Christ"), which depicts Christ being laid on th Anointing Stone by Nocodemus, John, and holy women. It is considered to be Caravaggio's best work. Although the authentic artwork is the highlight, the pavilion also features videos, Italian craftwork, modern inventions, and a rooftop garden. This is the most popular pavilion at the Expo. Reservations are available but not required. Without a reservation, expect 3+ hour wait on weekdays and 4+ hour wait on weekends. Has a restaurant. * '''Singapore''' (S11) - Focused around dreams, it's an interactive exhibit that allows you to write down your dream and then move into the projection dome where your dream will appear to help build the city. * '''Bulgaria''' (S12) - In Japan, Bulgaria is synonymous with yogurt in the most literal sense; "Bulgaria" is the name of a popular yogurt brand. Bulgaria introduced yogurt to Japan at the 1970 Expo. Because of this association, the pavilion uses yogurt and its bacteria as the base from which to introduce ideas about different cultures working together for the betterment of society like the good yogurt bacteria does in the human body. There is also a video where you can see the wishes of those who previously visited and you can use the QR code in the pavilion to write your own wishes for the next groups to read. English tours at 18:00 each day, arrive a few minutes early and tell the staff (do not get in the queue if you are doing the English tour). * '''Netherlands''' (S13) - Carrying a glowing orb as your guide, you'll learn about the history of the Netherlands' relationship with its waterways, from hardships to modern innovations intended to harness its power. Reservations required after 11:00. * '''Commons D''' (S14) - Features exhibits from Antigua and Barbuda, Cameroon, Cuba, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Honduras, Laos, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Mongolia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Tajikistan, Togo, Burkina Faso, Belize, and Bhutan * '''Oman''' (S15) - Projection mappings and a video. Has a restaurant. * '''Hungary''' (S16) - Local flora and a concert by a folk singer. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons E''' (S17) - Features art exhibits. * '''Poland''' (S20) - Flower projections and art made with traditional Polish goods. * '''Romania''' (S21) A video, live performance, and exhibits of traditional woodwork and handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''United Kingdom''' (S22) - Themed around dreams as "building blocks", follows a block mascot and daughter talking to her father in the UK. Features an interactive game. Has a restaurant. * '''Angola''' (S23) Opened in late June, the pavilion features a video story about a girl with malaria that promotes a future where modern medicine without devaluing traditional medicine. After that, you can listen to different people speak about various topics. Has a restaurant. ====C: Connecting Lives Zone==== [[File:韓国 パビリオン.jpg|thumb|Korea Pavilion]] * '''Nepal''' (C01) (not open as of June 2025) * '''Luxembourg''' (C02) - A video about life in Luxembourg, exhibits about Luxembourg as "the heart of Europe" * '''Germany''' (C03) - Carrying a light-up mascot of the pavilion, it will guide you in the language of your choice (Japanese, English, or German). The pavilion focuses on sustainability and solving modern problems, such as what to do with abandoned city housing. Roll your mascot down a chute to exit the pavilion. * '''Korea''' (C04) - A sound and light show, green energy art displays, and video * '''Commons F''' (C05) - Features exhibits from Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Brunei Darussalam * '''Azerbaijan''' (C07) - Arguably one of the most beautiful from the outside with its white arches and wooden ethnic dancers that spin over water between each arch, inside there is a rather long video followed by a hall of cultural objects from the country. Has a restaurant. * '''Monaco''' (C10) - Consists of 3 separate buildings, the first featuring a video of Monaco's culture, sensory touching, and a tacky VR experience. The others are located along an outside path with small gardens and interactive play spaces. They feature a maritime protection building with an attractive central pillar and projections and another small building with touch panels to learn more about the country. Has a wine bar. * '''Turkey''' (C11) - The main intrigue is the illuminated sun and moon, the sun representing Japan and the moon representing Turkey. The outside Turkish ice cream and Turkish food vendor are more popular than the pavilion itself. * '''Thailand''' (C12) - After a video introduction, the exhibits focus on food. Reservations for Thai massages can be made. Has a restaurant. * '''Spain''' (C13) - Exhibits about the ocean followed by a vibrant orange room with some postcards. * '''Saudi Arabia''' (C14) - Arabian architecture, multiple buildings with different exhibits and a central area where performances and demonstrations are held. Project-mapping is done of the buildings at night. Has a cafe. * '''Australia''' (C15) - Recreates a forest with video representations of local animals appearing in the trees. * '''Indonesia''' (C16) - A Sumatran forest with unique animals scattered about, a thoughtful video, and authentic blades from various ethnic groups * '''India''' (C17) - The pavilion was built to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of Enlightenment. Inside there are videos about Indian innovations along with Indian cultural objects. * '''Uzbekistan''' (C18) - Introduces the culture of the country before taking you to the roof which utilizes the same wood as the Grand Ring in its own unique design. * '''Serbia''' (C19) - "Understanding through play" is the theme, so it features a variety of interactive exhibits. * '''Bangladesh''' (C20) - Various objects around the room with a video in the back. * '''Senegal''' (C21) - Words on the wall about the country and a shop. * '''Egypt''' (C22) - Video projections of famous Egyptian sites. * '''Commons B''' (C23) - Features exhibits from Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Guyana, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Djibouti, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Somalia, Tanzania, Chad, Central African Republic, Tuvalu, Dominica, Nauru, Haiti, Paraguay, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Benin, Micronesia, Mauritania, and Lesotho. ====F: Forest of Tranquility==== [[File:Expo2025静けさの森、中心部の池.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Forest of Tranquility]] An attractive forest with paths for visitors to explore in the center of the inner ring. It consists of trees that were scheduled for thinning from Expo 70 Commemoration Park in [[Suita]] along with trees transplanted from other parks around Osaka Prefecture, including Osaka Castle Park. For passport stamp collectors, the Forest of Tranquility is one of the only venues that does not have a stamp. This is on purpose; frantic stamp collecting is neither relaxing nor tranquil. ===Outside the Grand Ring=== The following are venues located outside the grand ring representing Japan with the Japan Pavilion, Kansai Pavilion, and 12 Japanese megacorps pavilions, along with other non-country pavilions, such as the Women's Pavilion. These are typically highlights of the exposition, with Bandai's GUNDAM Pavilion guaranteed to draw crowds. They are well worth visiting but nearly all require reservations, so temper your expectations. You'll need multiple days with lots of lottery luck if you plan to enter more than just a few. ====E: East Gate Zone==== * '''Kansai''' (E01) Features some of the traditional prefectures that make up Kansai ([[Shiga]], [[Mie]], [[Wakayama (prefecture)|Wakayama]], [[Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]], [[Hyogo]], along with [[Tottori (prefecture)|Tottori]], [[Fukui (prefecture)|Fukui]], and [[Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima]]. Each prefecture has its own exhibition space branching off from the center. There is a [[Nara (prefecture)|Nara]] stamp for collectors however, Nara does not have an exhibition space. Osaka is not featured because the Expo is in Osaka and one hope of the pavilion is to inspire visitors to explore other prefectures. The exhibitions and features change throughout the festival, but the overall experience is similar: **Shiga: A 20 minute video with floating ball art. **Mie: Walk through a tunnel with projection-mappings of prefectural beauty followed by interactive exhibits where you can open doors and turn flaps to see and learn about famous places, objects, products, animals, and nature from the prefecture. **Wakayama: Large taiko drums for performances. **Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]]: Features local lacquerware art and products. **Hyogo: A video of prefectural highlights **Tottori: Using a magnifying glass, as a nod to Detective Conan whose creator is from [[Hokuei]], you first walk on sand from the Tottori Sand Dunes to find and learn about various things from the prefecture followed by a projection-mapping show over the sand. **Fukui: Using digital flashlights, you can find dinosaur fossils and then shine your light on Fukui dinosaurs, such as Fukuititan and Fukuiraptors, as they move around you. **Tokushima: Known for its indigo dyes, visitors can dip a thread into indigo dye and tie it to a traditional drying rack. There are also some cultural objects and a few interaction displays that you can feel and smell. Reservation required. * '''Osaka Healthcare''' (E02) - Has information about Japanese innovations in healthcare, demonstrations of a self-washer (an updated one from that which was featured at the 1970s Expo), and a body scan that creates an AI version of you and tells you where your health will likely take you in 2050. Reservations required, different reservations exist for regular entry versus regular entry plus the 2050 avatar experience. * '''NTT''' (E03) - Starts with a 3-D glasses video of the music group Perfume singing followed by a video show using the bodies of those in the room. Outside there are old-fashioned phones inside phone booths that play various sounds when you dial the numbers. Reservation required (outside phones can be used by anyone). * '''Mitsubishi''' (E05) - A video. Reservation required. * '''Panasonic Group - The Land of Nomo''' (E06) - Walk through with a crystal that you can use to interact with various exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Sumitomo''' (E07) - With the theme "The Unknown Forest", it begins with a video that sets the tone and setting of the forest before visitors are able to explore the unknown forest themselves on a walk with hand-held lanterns. Reservation required. * '''Electric Power - Eggs of Possibilities''' (E08) - Walk through the pavilion holding a glowing egg. There is a light show as well as interactive exhibits, some of which require use of your egg. Reservation required. * '''Women's Pavilion in Collaboration with Cartier''' (E09) - Using an audio guide (English option available), visitors are randomly separated into three groups to follow the story of one of three women before reuniting to read timelines of recent achievements by women, improvements in laws protecting women, and female firsts. Lastly, there is a room with various people (including men) with holes in their chests that you reach into to hear their stories. Reservations possible but not required. * '''Japan''' (E10) - With an attractive architectural design, the building has excellent visual exhibits showcasing Japanese innovations related to sustainability, such as plastic disintegration and algae, including the Hello Kitty algae display that for many became symbols of the Expo alongside the mascot. The pavilion is informative yet also artistic. Non-reservations from 9:00-11:00 and 19:30-21:00, Reservation required during daytime. * '''EXPO Hall "Shining Hat"''' (E11) - Has projection-mapping on the outside at night. * '''EXPO National Day Hall "Ray Garden"''' (E12) - A National Day is held for each country participating in the Expo. This is where they hold those performances. Nearly every day is a "national day". Visitors can check the website to see if their visit day coincides with a National Day that interests them. * '''Gallery EAST''' (E13) - A small showcase of paintings and cultural objects. ====W: West Gate Zone==== * '''Tech World (Taiwan)''' (W02) - Taiwan is not permitted to have a pavilion under its name, so in spite of the name "Tech World", this is Taiwan's pavilion. It features a projection-mapping about its nature and information about its technology with a focus on IC chips. * '''Gas Pavilion Obake Wonderland''' (W03) - "Ghost Wonderland". With a VR headset, you become a ghost and can interact with your surroundings as you navigate the world. Lessons about human waste manifest in the CO2 monster that must be destroyed. Popular with children. Reservation required. * '''Iida Group''' (W04) - Videos and models of their vision of future Smart Homes surrounded by circles (much like the Grand Ring) that contain grocery stores, shopping malls, and other necessities and entertainment for those in the apartments. * '''ORA Gaishoku''' (W05) - A dining facility showcasing Osaka foods. It contains a variety of Japanese cultural objects including an entire float from the Nebuta Festival in [[Aomori]]. * '''Blue Ocean Dome''' (W06) - Follow water droplets through a Pythagorean device also known as a Rube Goldberg machine-style contraption followed by a video. Reservation required. * '''Gundam NEXT Future''' (W07) - Uses videos to make you feel like you're inside a Gundam looking out during a battle. Reservation required. * '''Pasona Natureverse''' (W09) - Utilizes Astro Boy, a former vision of the future, to introduce a "Neo-Astro Boy", with exhibits about life-giving medicine. One of the highlights is a real lab-grown beating heart made from IPS cells. The Astro Boy statue sitting on the building is a popular photo op. * '''Yoshiimoto waraii myraii''' (W10) - Described as a waste of space by adults, children enjoy rolling down the slopes on the outside. * '''EXPO Exhibition Center "WASSE"''' (W11) - A space that is used for events, gatherings, and limited-time exhibitions. ====L: Future Life Zone==== The Future Life Village houses most of the featured sites, so they are more like booths or areas rather than individual pavilions. Most exhibits in this area are scheduled to change monthly, so there isn't a set experience and those who have visited before can have a different experience if they visit in a different month. * '''Gallery West''' (L01) - Has a small indoor display and VR experience and an outdoor space that is used for events throughout the expo. * '''Future Life Experience''' (L02) - Exhibits of how culture, food, and healthcare may look in the future. * '''Team Expo''' (L03) - Focuses on promoting people to take action in their lives on goals set for the future. * '''Mobility Experience''' (L04) - The launching and landing place of the advanced mobility aircraft. * '''Future City''' (L05) - A virtual experience of "The City of Happiness" which is set up much like the expo with a ring around central apartments and restaurants, shops, and a park located on the ring and around the buildings to create a small, self-contained living space with all of one's essentials very close by. * '''Expo Arena "Matsuri"''' (L06) - A large open space with a central stage for concerts and large events. * '''Junior SDG Camp''' (L07) - The actual Junior SDGs Camp is for schools however for stamp collectors, this one is stamped via an 11.5kg concrete weight. * '''Expo Sauna "Taiyo's Tsubomi"''' (L08) - Described as an "experimental sauna ritual", it utilizes heat from the sun to create the sauna's heat. The "ritual" comes from the way you use it. A guide takes visitors through each of the sauna's experiences in the order you're meant to use them. Scents and sounds are used, and the facilities come with instructions, such as a bath where you are to submerge at least up to your ears in order to experience not just the bath but also the sounds that are meant to have soothing effects. Only 100 people can enter per day. ==Do== [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/events/ Numerous events] big and small are held during the Expo. The most easily accessible is the '''One World, One Planet''' show, a synchronized show of sound, lighting and projection mapping across the entire venue, held daily after sunset. ==Buy== [[File:Myaku-Myaku Expo 2025 (best mascot ever).jpg|thumb|Myaku-Myaku]] The Expo's official mascot is '''Myaku-Myaku''' (ミャクミャク), a bizarre cross between a multi-eyed amoeba and a donut. Gift shops are featured throughout the site, including by the gates, which feature the mascot as many different products. There are also many corporate collaborations featuring the mascot, such as Sanrio characters in a costume of the mascot. Many country pavilions have small gift shops retailing local products, and you can pick up corporate merchandise at most of the company pavilions. ==Eat== Many pavilions will have places to eat featuring their own nation's foods. There are also scattered food trucks, tents, and food courts. The '''ORA Gaishoku''' in the West Gate Zone (''see above'') is a pavilion that is entirely a dining facility, featuring Osaka cuisine. The '''Kura-zushi''' is particularly popular. Conveyer-belt sushi was actually first introduced at Osaka's 1970s Expo, so it was een as fitting to include it upon the Expo's return to the city. The highlight at this Expo is that it features sushi with foods and flavors from over 70 countries, all of which are participating in the Expo. There are 338 seats, making it the largest Kura-zushi restaurant. Reservations are required. A visitor poll actually showed that '''bento's from home''' were the most popular food to eat. When it comes to bringing food and drinks, the food can stay in your bags and be run through the x-rays as normal. Drinks need to be removed from your bags and shown to the security staff at the entrance. If your drink is sealed, you can go through easily. If it is not sealed, they may have you drink some in front of them to prove it is a beverage. They have the authority to confiscate drinks that they deem suspicious, but this is not an issue for most people, and if it does occur, you can purchase drinks at vending machines or convenience stores inside the Expo. ==Drink== There are vending machines throughout the Expo and convenience stores to get drinks to stay hydrated. For alcohol, some country pavilions have their own local beers and wines. Most sit-down restaurants in the pavilion have some alchohol on offer. In addition, there are fun non-alcoholic but exotic drinks not typically available in Japan, such as camel milk at the UAE Pavilion and baobab juice at the African Restaurant, Panaf. ==Sleep== There is no lodging available on site, but it's located in [[Osaka]], which has a wide variety of hotels. Reserve as early as possible. {{guideevent}} {{PartOfTopic|Calendar of events and festivals|Japan}} rirmfcz79jp91uqmj5xk13hqa8ub0hg 5090869 5090862 2025-07-10T14:37:30Z ChubbyWimbus 109402 /* Buy */ 5090869 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|大屋根リング夜景全景.jpg}} '''Expo 2025''' (大阪・関西万博 ''Osaka-Kansai Banpaku'') is the site of the [[World's Fair]] for 2025 in [[Osaka]], [[Japan]]. It will run for 6 months from April 13, 2025 until October 13, 2025. ==Understand== [[File:EXPO2025_null2_Appearance.jpg|thumb|null² Pavilion]] Osaka-Kansai 2025 is Japan's third Universal Exposition after Expo '70, also held in Osaka, and [[Expo 2005]] near [[Nagoya]]. The official theme is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". 28 million visitors are projected to attend the exposition, which is spread across 155 hectares on the artificial island of Yumeshima (夢洲, "Dream Island") in the [[Osaka/Bay Area|Bay Area]] district of Osaka. After the Expo is over, Yumeshima will see a different type of dream or nightmare come to life, as Japan's first casino is set to open here in 2030. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/ Event website] ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=14}} {{main|Osaka#Get in}} Visitors to the Expo will generally arrive via Japan's second largest city [[Osaka]], which is a well-connected major travel hub served by [[Kansai International Airport]] ({{IATA|KIX}}) and the JR Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train from [[Tokyo]]. See [[Osaka#Get in]] for the details. Once in Osaka, the Expo site is best accessed via {{marker|type=go|name=Yumeshima Station|wikidata=Q60987816}} (夢洲駅) on the Metro Chuo Line from central Osaka. There are also direct shuttle buses from Kansai and Itami airports as well as major train stations including Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen connections), Osaka and Namba. See [https://www.transport.expo2025.or.jp/en the official transport site] for schedules. When you get to the Expo, you will be asked to go through a scanner similar to you would at an airport. You need to remove any drinks from your bags to be checked. Once you are through security, you must present your QR Code ticket. A screenshot of your QR code ticket also suffices. ==Get around== Walking is the primary way to get around. Skateboards, scooters, roller skates, etc. are banned from being brought into the Expo. There is a bus that circles the Expo and stops near various points that requires a reservation in order to use. ==See== During the Expo, adult one-day ticket options include &yen;7500 for an unlimited full day ticket, &yen;6000 weekday tickets valid from 11:00, and &yen;3700 for "night tickets" valid from 17:00 on the ticket, but you can enter from 16:00. Discounted senior, student and group tickets are also available. Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. The sheer size of the Expo means that it is impossible to cover everything in one day, and access to some of the more popular events and pavilions is capacity controlled with several rather convoluted systems. Allow at least two days if you wish to visit all pavilions of interest. It is wise to choose in advance which of the high-profile sites you want to visit and get them reserved early, then fill in the gaps with the more low-key attractions. Lines tend to shorten as the Expo approaches closing time, although if you cut it too close you run the risk of not getting in at all. * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/private_pavilion/ Full list]. ===Grand Ring=== [[File:Oyane-ring southeast.jpg|thumb|The Grand Ring]] The {{marker|type=see|name=Grand Ring|wikidata=Q133959805}} is a 2 km timber structure and walkway that rises to a height of 20 metres. One of the world's largest wooden structures, it offers views of the entire exhibition area. People can walk freely under the ring, which has benches, vending machines, and a few shops. It also provides respite from summer heat and rain. Some pavilions located along the perimeter, such as Bulgaria and Italy, have their queues under the ring. The top of the ring can be accessed by a handful of escalators scattered around its perimeter or by stairs which can also be used in case of emergency. At the center of the exhibition area within the Grand Ring, [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/official-participant/ over 100 countries] have their own pavilions along with the Signature Pavilions. There are five "commons" buildings, which house multiple countries who don't have their own pavilions. They are scattered throughout the Grand Ring and its sections. The following zones are located within the Grand Ring. They include the pavilion number for easy map-checking as the official maps use the numbers. ====P: Empowering Lives Zone==== [[File:EXPO 2025 America Pavilion.jpg|thumb|USA Pavilion]] * '''Ireland''' (P01) - The building is designed to represent the Irish triskele. Inside there is a scent area where you can smell Irish plants, an exhibit about Lafcadio Hearn who was part Irish, and Irish folk music performances. * '''Malaysia''' (P02) - Begins with colorful cultural displays of foods from each region of the country followed by exhibits about the future. A highlight is the central tree made from traditional handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons A''' (P03) Features exhibits and shops of Barbados, Bolivia, Burundi, Comoros, Eswatini, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritius, North Macedonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Suriname, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Yemen * '''Jordan''' (P04) - Has videos of culture and tourist attractions, musical stones, and 22 tons of sand from [[Wadi Rum]] that visitors can walk on and touch. Although it is one of the small pavilions, the sand and interactive experiences have made it very popular. Waiting times can go past 2 hours. * '''Peru''' (P05) - Video about the history and culture followed by cultural object displays. * '''Advanced Air Mobility''' (p07) - A video about air mobility. Reservation required. * '''Mozambique''' (P08) - Video followed by displays of cultural objects. * '''Philippines''' (P09) - "Woven" is the theme, and the exterior features woven hammocks. Inside, there are weavings, and you can dance around as an AI plant. * '''United States'''(P11) - A star mascot and catchy theme song guide you through scenes from around the country before leading into exhibits about American space innovations. The theme song is in English for the English tours and in Japanese for Japanese tours. Chinese tours are also available twice per day. Has a restaurant. * '''France''' (P12) - An exhibit that alternates Louis Vuitton art installations and authentic Rodin hand sculptures. The odd combination of vapid consumerism and deep cultural heritage somehow manages to feel coherent and impressive. Has a restaurant. * '''Robot and Mobility''' (P14) - Showcases drones, cars, etc. with occasional demonstrations. * '''Vietnam''' (P15) - Small, with clothing, a recreated temple, and other objects and information. At certain times they perform traditional museum with the instruments on display. * '''Qatar''' (P17) - Designed to represent the nation's dhows, the inner exhibits also feature the country's relationship with the sea. * '''United Arab Emirates''' (P18) - Features giant pillars made of date palm trees, information is scattered about the spacious room with 3 rotating videos featured in the back. Has a restaurant. * '''Canada'''(P19) - Walk through ice bergs and other exhibits with a handheld VR tablet that will show various scenes of Canada when you point them at the physical objects. * '''Portugal''' (P20) - Themed around the ocean and the need to take better care of it. * '''Colombia''' (P21) - Butterfly lights on the ceiling guide you through the pavilion to view the actual typewriter used by Gabriel Garcia Martez to write the novel One Hundred Years of Solitude, a circle of objects from the country that you can touch, and an information room. Has a restaurant. * '''Switzerland''' (P22) - You can say your wish for the "future society" into a microphone and create a real bubble that takes your wish upwards * '''Austria''' (P23) - Video of musical history and musical touchscreens. * '''Brazil''' (P26) - Art installation in the main building featuring inflatables, exhibits about the country and paints available for you to paint tribal patterns on your face or hands. * '''Kuwait''' (P27) - Contains a video of a futuristic vision of the country and actual sand brought from the dessert that you can touch and compare to sand you've felt in Japan or elsewhere. * '''China''' (P28) - Animated videos of Chinese culture in a traditional painting-style and replicas of cultural treasures. * '''International Organizations Pavilion''' (P29) - World Expo Museum, ITER project, ASEAN * '''United Nations''' (P30) - History of the UN, how the UN effects people's lives, a video, and a shop. * '''Red Cross and Red Crescent''' (P31) - A video and information about what the organization does. * '''Bahrain''' (P34) - Contains a variety of objects made by craftsman and cultural objects. * '''Turkmenistan''' (P35) - Has a video about the country followed by some cultural objects. The colorful building featuring a white horse is considered to be one of the most eye-catching at the Expo. * '''Nordic''' (Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) (P36) - A glorified lounge; lots of space, not much to see. Has a restaurant. * '''Malta''' (P37) - Features videos of Malta's history and 3 authentic samurai armor suits gifted to Malta by Fukuzawa Yukichi in 1862 that have not been on display since they put in storage for safety during WWII. * '''Czech Republic''' (P38) - Built with materials from the Czech Republic, such as spruce and Bohemian glass. Artwork lines the walls and art using the glass is also featured. ====X: Signature Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-DYNAMIC EQUILIBRIUM OF LIFE-pavilion.jpg|thumb|Dynamic Equilibrium of Life Pavilion]] * '''Better Co-Being''' (X01) - An open-air exhibit of various art installations intended to bring people closer together, the daytime experience feels more in touch with nature while the nighttime experience feels more otherworldy. Reservation required. * '''Future of Life''' (X02) - Gives history of projecting life onto objects ending in robots and AI from where it introduces ideas of a future in which robots and humans live among each other. It follows the mental struggle of an elderly woman who must decide between dying a natural death or placing her memories inside a robot as a gift to her granddaughter so that she can continue to interact with "her" even after she passes. It posing questions about what is life and what does it mean to be human. It ends with robots emerging from peach-like structures, meant to evoke the Momotaro folktale, where you can see their expressions up close as they move and gesture towards you to show that robots are already capable of invoking emotion and response from you to further push visitors to confront discomforts surrounding robots. Reservation required. * '''Jellyfish Pavilion''' (X03) - A fun pavilion to relax in; it's especially pretty at night when it's lit up. * {{see | name=OCHIAI Yoichi's Signature Pavilion "Forging Lives" null² | alt=X04 | url=https://expo2025.digitalnatureandarts.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q134286794 | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content= Has two completely different experiences. The Installation tour is a 10 minute sound and visual art display. The Dialogue tour creates an AI version of you that you can communicate with and it will replicate you. Reservation required. }} * '''Dynamic Equilibrium of Life''' (X05) - The "dynamic equilibrium" is defined as "a system that is in constant change yet is balanced as a whole". This concept is artfully illustrated through a narrated (Japanese and English) light show. Reservation required. * '''Live Earth Journey: Totality of Life''' (X06) - A virtual reality experience. Reservation required. * '''Earth Mart''' (X07) - Attempts to show how we can eat sutainably through projections and a variety of interactive exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Dialogue of Theater''' (X08) - One participant is chosen from the crowd to engage in a dialogue with someone on video from elsewhere in Japan. Each of the 184 days of the Expo, the question that the two people must answer and discuss is different. The idea is to bridge divides by talking and engaging rather than dissociating. Because the participants are randomly chosen, every session's discussion is different and it is unknown to what exent the participants will be "divided" if at all. Reservation required. ====S: Saving Lives Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-HungaryPavilion.jpg|thumb|Hungary Pavilion]] * '''Commons C''' (S01) - Feaures exhibits from Croatia, Gabon, Guatemala, Israel, Montenegro, Panama, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Uruguay. Has a Gabon restaurant. * '''Chile''' (S02) - Mostly empty room with weavings on the ceiling. * '''Tunisia''' (S03) - Makes good use of the small pavilion with projections and the opportunity to have your name written in Arabic, inscribe your name on a plate, or get handmade pottery from the man outside. Has a restaurant. * '''Cambodia''' (S04) - Recreates parts of a stone temple with a replica of Angkor Wat in the center. * '''Algeria''' (S05) - A video with an AI child. * '''Baltic''' (Latvia and Lithuania) (S06) - Medicinal herbs from these countries and art featuring their mascot. Estonia did not participate. * '''European Union''' (S07) - Has a machine-tended zen rock garden and colorful flower and origami exhibits. * '''Belgium''' (S08) Free Biscoff cookie when entering. Focuses on Belgium's importance in medical innovation and technology. * '''Italy and the Holy See''' (S09) - The theme is "Art Regenerates Life". The Italian part features authentic paintings and sculptures from Michaelangelo, pages from the Da Vinci Codex, Olympic Torches. The 16th century painting "Portrait of Ito Mancio" by Domenico Tintoretto commemorates the first diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. The Vatican contributed Caravaggio's painting "The Deposition" (also commonly called "The Entombment of Christ"), which depicts Christ being laid on th Anointing Stone by Nocodemus, John, and holy women. It is considered to be Caravaggio's best work. Although the authentic artwork is the highlight, the pavilion also features videos, Italian craftwork, modern inventions, and a rooftop garden. This is the most popular pavilion at the Expo. Reservations are available but not required. Without a reservation, expect 3+ hour wait on weekdays and 4+ hour wait on weekends. Has a restaurant. * '''Singapore''' (S11) - Focused around dreams, it's an interactive exhibit that allows you to write down your dream and then move into the projection dome where your dream will appear to help build the city. * '''Bulgaria''' (S12) - In Japan, Bulgaria is synonymous with yogurt in the most literal sense; "Bulgaria" is the name of a popular yogurt brand. Bulgaria introduced yogurt to Japan at the 1970 Expo. Because of this association, the pavilion uses yogurt and its bacteria as the base from which to introduce ideas about different cultures working together for the betterment of society like the good yogurt bacteria does in the human body. There is also a video where you can see the wishes of those who previously visited and you can use the QR code in the pavilion to write your own wishes for the next groups to read. English tours at 18:00 each day, arrive a few minutes early and tell the staff (do not get in the queue if you are doing the English tour). * '''Netherlands''' (S13) - Carrying a glowing orb as your guide, you'll learn about the history of the Netherlands' relationship with its waterways, from hardships to modern innovations intended to harness its power. Reservations required after 11:00. * '''Commons D''' (S14) - Features exhibits from Antigua and Barbuda, Cameroon, Cuba, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Honduras, Laos, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Mongolia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Tajikistan, Togo, Burkina Faso, Belize, and Bhutan * '''Oman''' (S15) - Projection mappings and a video. Has a restaurant. * '''Hungary''' (S16) - Local flora and a concert by a folk singer. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons E''' (S17) - Features art exhibits. * '''Poland''' (S20) - Flower projections and art made with traditional Polish goods. * '''Romania''' (S21) A video, live performance, and exhibits of traditional woodwork and handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''United Kingdom''' (S22) - Themed around dreams as "building blocks", follows a block mascot and daughter talking to her father in the UK. Features an interactive game. Has a restaurant. * '''Angola''' (S23) Opened in late June, the pavilion features a video story about a girl with malaria that promotes a future where modern medicine without devaluing traditional medicine. After that, you can listen to different people speak about various topics. Has a restaurant. ====C: Connecting Lives Zone==== [[File:韓国 パビリオン.jpg|thumb|Korea Pavilion]] * '''Nepal''' (C01) (not open as of June 2025) * '''Luxembourg''' (C02) - A video about life in Luxembourg, exhibits about Luxembourg as "the heart of Europe" * '''Germany''' (C03) - Carrying a light-up mascot of the pavilion, it will guide you in the language of your choice (Japanese, English, or German). The pavilion focuses on sustainability and solving modern problems, such as what to do with abandoned city housing. Roll your mascot down a chute to exit the pavilion. * '''Korea''' (C04) - A sound and light show, green energy art displays, and video * '''Commons F''' (C05) - Features exhibits from Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Brunei Darussalam * '''Azerbaijan''' (C07) - Arguably one of the most beautiful from the outside with its white arches and wooden ethnic dancers that spin over water between each arch, inside there is a rather long video followed by a hall of cultural objects from the country. Has a restaurant. * '''Monaco''' (C10) - Consists of 3 separate buildings, the first featuring a video of Monaco's culture, sensory touching, and a tacky VR experience. The others are located along an outside path with small gardens and interactive play spaces. They feature a maritime protection building with an attractive central pillar and projections and another small building with touch panels to learn more about the country. Has a wine bar. * '''Turkey''' (C11) - The main intrigue is the illuminated sun and moon, the sun representing Japan and the moon representing Turkey. The outside Turkish ice cream and Turkish food vendor are more popular than the pavilion itself. * '''Thailand''' (C12) - After a video introduction, the exhibits focus on food. Reservations for Thai massages can be made. Has a restaurant. * '''Spain''' (C13) - Exhibits about the ocean followed by a vibrant orange room with some postcards. * '''Saudi Arabia''' (C14) - Arabian architecture, multiple buildings with different exhibits and a central area where performances and demonstrations are held. Project-mapping is done of the buildings at night. Has a cafe. * '''Australia''' (C15) - Recreates a forest with video representations of local animals appearing in the trees. * '''Indonesia''' (C16) - A Sumatran forest with unique animals scattered about, a thoughtful video, and authentic blades from various ethnic groups * '''India''' (C17) - The pavilion was built to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of Enlightenment. Inside there are videos about Indian innovations along with Indian cultural objects. * '''Uzbekistan''' (C18) - Introduces the culture of the country before taking you to the roof which utilizes the same wood as the Grand Ring in its own unique design. * '''Serbia''' (C19) - "Understanding through play" is the theme, so it features a variety of interactive exhibits. * '''Bangladesh''' (C20) - Various objects around the room with a video in the back. * '''Senegal''' (C21) - Words on the wall about the country and a shop. * '''Egypt''' (C22) - Video projections of famous Egyptian sites. * '''Commons B''' (C23) - Features exhibits from Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Guyana, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Djibouti, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Somalia, Tanzania, Chad, Central African Republic, Tuvalu, Dominica, Nauru, Haiti, Paraguay, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Benin, Micronesia, Mauritania, and Lesotho. ====F: Forest of Tranquility==== [[File:Expo2025静けさの森、中心部の池.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Forest of Tranquility]] An attractive forest with paths for visitors to explore in the center of the inner ring. It consists of trees that were scheduled for thinning from Expo 70 Commemoration Park in [[Suita]] along with trees transplanted from other parks around Osaka Prefecture, including Osaka Castle Park. For passport stamp collectors, the Forest of Tranquility is one of the only venues that does not have a stamp. This is on purpose; frantic stamp collecting is neither relaxing nor tranquil. ===Outside the Grand Ring=== The following are venues located outside the grand ring representing Japan with the Japan Pavilion, Kansai Pavilion, and 12 Japanese megacorps pavilions, along with other non-country pavilions, such as the Women's Pavilion. These are typically highlights of the exposition, with Bandai's GUNDAM Pavilion guaranteed to draw crowds. They are well worth visiting but nearly all require reservations, so temper your expectations. You'll need multiple days with lots of lottery luck if you plan to enter more than just a few. ====E: East Gate Zone==== * '''Kansai''' (E01) Features some of the traditional prefectures that make up Kansai ([[Shiga]], [[Mie]], [[Wakayama (prefecture)|Wakayama]], [[Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]], [[Hyogo]], along with [[Tottori (prefecture)|Tottori]], [[Fukui (prefecture)|Fukui]], and [[Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima]]. Each prefecture has its own exhibition space branching off from the center. There is a [[Nara (prefecture)|Nara]] stamp for collectors however, Nara does not have an exhibition space. Osaka is not featured because the Expo is in Osaka and one hope of the pavilion is to inspire visitors to explore other prefectures. The exhibitions and features change throughout the festival, but the overall experience is similar: **Shiga: A 20 minute video with floating ball art. **Mie: Walk through a tunnel with projection-mappings of prefectural beauty followed by interactive exhibits where you can open doors and turn flaps to see and learn about famous places, objects, products, animals, and nature from the prefecture. **Wakayama: Large taiko drums for performances. **Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]]: Features local lacquerware art and products. **Hyogo: A video of prefectural highlights **Tottori: Using a magnifying glass, as a nod to Detective Conan whose creator is from [[Hokuei]], you first walk on sand from the Tottori Sand Dunes to find and learn about various things from the prefecture followed by a projection-mapping show over the sand. **Fukui: Using digital flashlights, you can find dinosaur fossils and then shine your light on Fukui dinosaurs, such as Fukuititan and Fukuiraptors, as they move around you. **Tokushima: Known for its indigo dyes, visitors can dip a thread into indigo dye and tie it to a traditional drying rack. There are also some cultural objects and a few interaction displays that you can feel and smell. Reservation required. * '''Osaka Healthcare''' (E02) - Has information about Japanese innovations in healthcare, demonstrations of a self-washer (an updated one from that which was featured at the 1970s Expo), and a body scan that creates an AI version of you and tells you where your health will likely take you in 2050. Reservations required, different reservations exist for regular entry versus regular entry plus the 2050 avatar experience. * '''NTT''' (E03) - Starts with a 3-D glasses video of the music group Perfume singing followed by a video show using the bodies of those in the room. Outside there are old-fashioned phones inside phone booths that play various sounds when you dial the numbers. Reservation required (outside phones can be used by anyone). * '''Mitsubishi''' (E05) - A video. Reservation required. * '''Panasonic Group - The Land of Nomo''' (E06) - Walk through with a crystal that you can use to interact with various exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Sumitomo''' (E07) - With the theme "The Unknown Forest", it begins with a video that sets the tone and setting of the forest before visitors are able to explore the unknown forest themselves on a walk with hand-held lanterns. Reservation required. * '''Electric Power - Eggs of Possibilities''' (E08) - Walk through the pavilion holding a glowing egg. There is a light show as well as interactive exhibits, some of which require use of your egg. Reservation required. * '''Women's Pavilion in Collaboration with Cartier''' (E09) - Using an audio guide (English option available), visitors are randomly separated into three groups to follow the story of one of three women before reuniting to read timelines of recent achievements by women, improvements in laws protecting women, and female firsts. Lastly, there is a room with various people (including men) with holes in their chests that you reach into to hear their stories. Reservations possible but not required. * '''Japan''' (E10) - With an attractive architectural design, the building has excellent visual exhibits showcasing Japanese innovations related to sustainability, such as plastic disintegration and algae, including the Hello Kitty algae display that for many became symbols of the Expo alongside the mascot. The pavilion is informative yet also artistic. Non-reservations from 9:00-11:00 and 19:30-21:00, Reservation required during daytime. * '''EXPO Hall "Shining Hat"''' (E11) - Has projection-mapping on the outside at night. * '''EXPO National Day Hall "Ray Garden"''' (E12) - A National Day is held for each country participating in the Expo. This is where they hold those performances. Nearly every day is a "national day". Visitors can check the website to see if their visit day coincides with a National Day that interests them. * '''Gallery EAST''' (E13) - A small showcase of paintings and cultural objects. ====W: West Gate Zone==== * '''Tech World (Taiwan)''' (W02) - Taiwan is not permitted to have a pavilion under its name, so in spite of the name "Tech World", this is Taiwan's pavilion. It features a projection-mapping about its nature and information about its technology with a focus on IC chips. * '''Gas Pavilion Obake Wonderland''' (W03) - "Ghost Wonderland". With a VR headset, you become a ghost and can interact with your surroundings as you navigate the world. Lessons about human waste manifest in the CO2 monster that must be destroyed. Popular with children. Reservation required. * '''Iida Group''' (W04) - Videos and models of their vision of future Smart Homes surrounded by circles (much like the Grand Ring) that contain grocery stores, shopping malls, and other necessities and entertainment for those in the apartments. * '''ORA Gaishoku''' (W05) - A dining facility showcasing Osaka foods. It contains a variety of Japanese cultural objects including an entire float from the Nebuta Festival in [[Aomori]]. * '''Blue Ocean Dome''' (W06) - Follow water droplets through a Pythagorean device also known as a Rube Goldberg machine-style contraption followed by a video. Reservation required. * '''Gundam NEXT Future''' (W07) - Uses videos to make you feel like you're inside a Gundam looking out during a battle. Reservation required. * '''Pasona Natureverse''' (W09) - Utilizes Astro Boy, a former vision of the future, to introduce a "Neo-Astro Boy", with exhibits about life-giving medicine. One of the highlights is a real lab-grown beating heart made from IPS cells. The Astro Boy statue sitting on the building is a popular photo op. * '''Yoshiimoto waraii myraii''' (W10) - Described as a waste of space by adults, children enjoy rolling down the slopes on the outside. * '''EXPO Exhibition Center "WASSE"''' (W11) - A space that is used for events, gatherings, and limited-time exhibitions. ====L: Future Life Zone==== The Future Life Village houses most of the featured sites, so they are more like booths or areas rather than individual pavilions. Most exhibits in this area are scheduled to change monthly, so there isn't a set experience and those who have visited before can have a different experience if they visit in a different month. * '''Gallery West''' (L01) - Has a small indoor display and VR experience and an outdoor space that is used for events throughout the expo. * '''Future Life Experience''' (L02) - Exhibits of how culture, food, and healthcare may look in the future. * '''Team Expo''' (L03) - Focuses on promoting people to take action in their lives on goals set for the future. * '''Mobility Experience''' (L04) - The launching and landing place of the advanced mobility aircraft. * '''Future City''' (L05) - A virtual experience of "The City of Happiness" which is set up much like the expo with a ring around central apartments and restaurants, shops, and a park located on the ring and around the buildings to create a small, self-contained living space with all of one's essentials very close by. * '''Expo Arena "Matsuri"''' (L06) - A large open space with a central stage for concerts and large events. * '''Junior SDG Camp''' (L07) - The actual Junior SDGs Camp is for schools however for stamp collectors, this one is stamped via an 11.5kg concrete weight. * '''Expo Sauna "Taiyo's Tsubomi"''' (L08) - Described as an "experimental sauna ritual", it utilizes heat from the sun to create the sauna's heat. The "ritual" comes from the way you use it. A guide takes visitors through each of the sauna's experiences in the order you're meant to use them. Scents and sounds are used, and the facilities come with instructions, such as a bath where you are to submerge at least up to your ears in order to experience not just the bath but also the sounds that are meant to have soothing effects. Only 100 people can enter per day. ==Do== [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/events/ Numerous events] big and small are held during the Expo. The most easily accessible is the '''One World, One Planet''' show, a synchronized show of sound, lighting and projection mapping across the entire venue, held daily after sunset. ==Buy== [[File:Myaku-Myaku Expo 2025 (best mascot ever).jpg|thumb|Myaku-Myaku]] The '''Expo 2025 Official Store''' has an East Gate and a West Gate shop so whichever is your entrypoint, you will be near a gift shop. You can buy '''Expo passports''' at these shops and they contain the widest variety of goods. Maps of the Expo must also be purchased at information centers near the entrances. The Expo's official mascot is '''Myaku-Myaku''' (ミャクミャク), a bizarre cross between a multi-eyed amoeba and a donut. Gift shops are featured throughout the site, including by the gates, which feature the mascot as many different products. There are also many corporate collaborations featuring the mascot, such as Sanrio characters in a costume of the mascot. Many country pavilions have small gift shops retailing local products, and you can pick up corporate merchandise at most of the company pavilions. ==Eat== Many pavilions will have places to eat featuring their own nation's foods. There are also scattered food trucks, tents, and food courts. The '''ORA Gaishoku''' in the West Gate Zone (''see above'') is a pavilion that is entirely a dining facility, featuring Osaka cuisine. The '''Kura-zushi''' is particularly popular. Conveyer-belt sushi was actually first introduced at Osaka's 1970s Expo, so it was een as fitting to include it upon the Expo's return to the city. The highlight at this Expo is that it features sushi with foods and flavors from over 70 countries, all of which are participating in the Expo. There are 338 seats, making it the largest Kura-zushi restaurant. Reservations are required. A visitor poll actually showed that '''bento's from home''' were the most popular food to eat. When it comes to bringing food and drinks, the food can stay in your bags and be run through the x-rays as normal. Drinks need to be removed from your bags and shown to the security staff at the entrance. If your drink is sealed, you can go through easily. If it is not sealed, they may have you drink some in front of them to prove it is a beverage. They have the authority to confiscate drinks that they deem suspicious, but this is not an issue for most people, and if it does occur, you can purchase drinks at vending machines or convenience stores inside the Expo. ==Drink== There are vending machines throughout the Expo and convenience stores to get drinks to stay hydrated. For alcohol, some country pavilions have their own local beers and wines. Most sit-down restaurants in the pavilion have some alchohol on offer. In addition, there are fun non-alcoholic but exotic drinks not typically available in Japan, such as camel milk at the UAE Pavilion and baobab juice at the African Restaurant, Panaf. ==Sleep== There is no lodging available on site, but it's located in [[Osaka]], which has a wide variety of hotels. Reserve as early as possible. {{guideevent}} {{PartOfTopic|Calendar of events and festivals|Japan}} p9cnzg7wocm5ff2l9fljtnuayedciy7 5090874 5090869 2025-07-10T14:44:16Z ChubbyWimbus 109402 /* Get in */ 5090874 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|大屋根リング夜景全景.jpg}} '''Expo 2025''' (大阪・関西万博 ''Osaka-Kansai Banpaku'') is the site of the [[World's Fair]] for 2025 in [[Osaka]], [[Japan]]. It will run for 6 months from April 13, 2025 until October 13, 2025. ==Understand== [[File:EXPO2025_null2_Appearance.jpg|thumb|null² Pavilion]] Osaka-Kansai 2025 is Japan's third Universal Exposition after Expo '70, also held in Osaka, and [[Expo 2005]] near [[Nagoya]]. The official theme is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". 28 million visitors are projected to attend the exposition, which is spread across 155 hectares on the artificial island of Yumeshima (夢洲, "Dream Island") in the [[Osaka/Bay Area|Bay Area]] district of Osaka. After the Expo is over, Yumeshima will see a different type of dream or nightmare come to life, as Japan's first casino is set to open here in 2030. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/ Event website] ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=14}} {{main|Osaka#Get in}} Visitors to the Expo will generally arrive via Japan's second largest city [[Osaka]], which is a well-connected major travel hub served by [[Kansai International Airport]] ({{IATA|KIX}}) and the JR Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train from [[Tokyo]]. See [[Osaka#Get in]] for the details. Once in Osaka, the Expo site is best accessed via {{marker|type=go|name=Yumeshima Station|wikidata=Q60987816}} (夢洲駅) on the Metro Chuo Line from central Osaka. There are also direct shuttle buses from Kansai and Itami airports as well as major train stations including Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen connections), Osaka and Namba. See [https://www.transport.expo2025.or.jp/en the official transport site] for schedules. When you buy your ticket online, you will need to choose the date, entry time, and gate. You must enter from the gate that you selected. If you are arriving at Yumeshima Station, the East Gate is closest. If you are arriving by car or by bus, the West Gate is closer. There is a walking course between each gate, so you can still enter, but you'll have a 15-20 minute walk if you choose the gate furthest from your entry point. When you get to the Expo, you will be asked to go through a scanner similar to you would at an airport. You need to remove any drinks from your bags to be checked. Once you are through security, you must present your QR Code ticket. A screenshot of your QR code ticket also suffices. ==Get around== Walking is the primary way to get around. Skateboards, scooters, roller skates, etc. are banned from being brought into the Expo. There is a bus that circles the Expo and stops near various points that requires a reservation in order to use. ==See== During the Expo, adult one-day ticket options include &yen;7500 for an unlimited full day ticket, &yen;6000 weekday tickets valid from 11:00, and &yen;3700 for "night tickets" valid from 17:00 on the ticket, but you can enter from 16:00. Discounted senior, student and group tickets are also available. Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. The sheer size of the Expo means that it is impossible to cover everything in one day, and access to some of the more popular events and pavilions is capacity controlled with several rather convoluted systems. Allow at least two days if you wish to visit all pavilions of interest. It is wise to choose in advance which of the high-profile sites you want to visit and get them reserved early, then fill in the gaps with the more low-key attractions. Lines tend to shorten as the Expo approaches closing time, although if you cut it too close you run the risk of not getting in at all. * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/private_pavilion/ Full list]. ===Grand Ring=== [[File:Oyane-ring southeast.jpg|thumb|The Grand Ring]] The {{marker|type=see|name=Grand Ring|wikidata=Q133959805}} is a 2 km timber structure and walkway that rises to a height of 20 metres. One of the world's largest wooden structures, it offers views of the entire exhibition area. People can walk freely under the ring, which has benches, vending machines, and a few shops. It also provides respite from summer heat and rain. Some pavilions located along the perimeter, such as Bulgaria and Italy, have their queues under the ring. The top of the ring can be accessed by a handful of escalators scattered around its perimeter or by stairs which can also be used in case of emergency. At the center of the exhibition area within the Grand Ring, [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/official-participant/ over 100 countries] have their own pavilions along with the Signature Pavilions. There are five "commons" buildings, which house multiple countries who don't have their own pavilions. They are scattered throughout the Grand Ring and its sections. The following zones are located within the Grand Ring. They include the pavilion number for easy map-checking as the official maps use the numbers. ====P: Empowering Lives Zone==== [[File:EXPO 2025 America Pavilion.jpg|thumb|USA Pavilion]] * '''Ireland''' (P01) - The building is designed to represent the Irish triskele. Inside there is a scent area where you can smell Irish plants, an exhibit about Lafcadio Hearn who was part Irish, and Irish folk music performances. * '''Malaysia''' (P02) - Begins with colorful cultural displays of foods from each region of the country followed by exhibits about the future. A highlight is the central tree made from traditional handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons A''' (P03) Features exhibits and shops of Barbados, Bolivia, Burundi, Comoros, Eswatini, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritius, North Macedonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Suriname, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Yemen * '''Jordan''' (P04) - Has videos of culture and tourist attractions, musical stones, and 22 tons of sand from [[Wadi Rum]] that visitors can walk on and touch. Although it is one of the small pavilions, the sand and interactive experiences have made it very popular. Waiting times can go past 2 hours. * '''Peru''' (P05) - Video about the history and culture followed by cultural object displays. * '''Advanced Air Mobility''' (p07) - A video about air mobility. Reservation required. * '''Mozambique''' (P08) - Video followed by displays of cultural objects. * '''Philippines''' (P09) - "Woven" is the theme, and the exterior features woven hammocks. Inside, there are weavings, and you can dance around as an AI plant. * '''United States'''(P11) - A star mascot and catchy theme song guide you through scenes from around the country before leading into exhibits about American space innovations. The theme song is in English for the English tours and in Japanese for Japanese tours. Chinese tours are also available twice per day. Has a restaurant. * '''France''' (P12) - An exhibit that alternates Louis Vuitton art installations and authentic Rodin hand sculptures. The odd combination of vapid consumerism and deep cultural heritage somehow manages to feel coherent and impressive. Has a restaurant. * '''Robot and Mobility''' (P14) - Showcases drones, cars, etc. with occasional demonstrations. * '''Vietnam''' (P15) - Small, with clothing, a recreated temple, and other objects and information. At certain times they perform traditional museum with the instruments on display. * '''Qatar''' (P17) - Designed to represent the nation's dhows, the inner exhibits also feature the country's relationship with the sea. * '''United Arab Emirates''' (P18) - Features giant pillars made of date palm trees, information is scattered about the spacious room with 3 rotating videos featured in the back. Has a restaurant. * '''Canada'''(P19) - Walk through ice bergs and other exhibits with a handheld VR tablet that will show various scenes of Canada when you point them at the physical objects. * '''Portugal''' (P20) - Themed around the ocean and the need to take better care of it. * '''Colombia''' (P21) - Butterfly lights on the ceiling guide you through the pavilion to view the actual typewriter used by Gabriel Garcia Martez to write the novel One Hundred Years of Solitude, a circle of objects from the country that you can touch, and an information room. Has a restaurant. * '''Switzerland''' (P22) - You can say your wish for the "future society" into a microphone and create a real bubble that takes your wish upwards * '''Austria''' (P23) - Video of musical history and musical touchscreens. * '''Brazil''' (P26) - Art installation in the main building featuring inflatables, exhibits about the country and paints available for you to paint tribal patterns on your face or hands. * '''Kuwait''' (P27) - Contains a video of a futuristic vision of the country and actual sand brought from the dessert that you can touch and compare to sand you've felt in Japan or elsewhere. * '''China''' (P28) - Animated videos of Chinese culture in a traditional painting-style and replicas of cultural treasures. * '''International Organizations Pavilion''' (P29) - World Expo Museum, ITER project, ASEAN * '''United Nations''' (P30) - History of the UN, how the UN effects people's lives, a video, and a shop. * '''Red Cross and Red Crescent''' (P31) - A video and information about what the organization does. * '''Bahrain''' (P34) - Contains a variety of objects made by craftsman and cultural objects. * '''Turkmenistan''' (P35) - Has a video about the country followed by some cultural objects. The colorful building featuring a white horse is considered to be one of the most eye-catching at the Expo. * '''Nordic''' (Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) (P36) - A glorified lounge; lots of space, not much to see. Has a restaurant. * '''Malta''' (P37) - Features videos of Malta's history and 3 authentic samurai armor suits gifted to Malta by Fukuzawa Yukichi in 1862 that have not been on display since they put in storage for safety during WWII. * '''Czech Republic''' (P38) - Built with materials from the Czech Republic, such as spruce and Bohemian glass. Artwork lines the walls and art using the glass is also featured. ====X: Signature Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-DYNAMIC EQUILIBRIUM OF LIFE-pavilion.jpg|thumb|Dynamic Equilibrium of Life Pavilion]] * '''Better Co-Being''' (X01) - An open-air exhibit of various art installations intended to bring people closer together, the daytime experience feels more in touch with nature while the nighttime experience feels more otherworldy. Reservation required. * '''Future of Life''' (X02) - Gives history of projecting life onto objects ending in robots and AI from where it introduces ideas of a future in which robots and humans live among each other. It follows the mental struggle of an elderly woman who must decide between dying a natural death or placing her memories inside a robot as a gift to her granddaughter so that she can continue to interact with "her" even after she passes. It posing questions about what is life and what does it mean to be human. It ends with robots emerging from peach-like structures, meant to evoke the Momotaro folktale, where you can see their expressions up close as they move and gesture towards you to show that robots are already capable of invoking emotion and response from you to further push visitors to confront discomforts surrounding robots. Reservation required. * '''Jellyfish Pavilion''' (X03) - A fun pavilion to relax in; it's especially pretty at night when it's lit up. * {{see | name=OCHIAI Yoichi's Signature Pavilion "Forging Lives" null² | alt=X04 | url=https://expo2025.digitalnatureandarts.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q134286794 | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content= Has two completely different experiences. The Installation tour is a 10 minute sound and visual art display. The Dialogue tour creates an AI version of you that you can communicate with and it will replicate you. Reservation required. }} * '''Dynamic Equilibrium of Life''' (X05) - The "dynamic equilibrium" is defined as "a system that is in constant change yet is balanced as a whole". This concept is artfully illustrated through a narrated (Japanese and English) light show. Reservation required. * '''Live Earth Journey: Totality of Life''' (X06) - A virtual reality experience. Reservation required. * '''Earth Mart''' (X07) - Attempts to show how we can eat sutainably through projections and a variety of interactive exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Dialogue of Theater''' (X08) - One participant is chosen from the crowd to engage in a dialogue with someone on video from elsewhere in Japan. Each of the 184 days of the Expo, the question that the two people must answer and discuss is different. The idea is to bridge divides by talking and engaging rather than dissociating. Because the participants are randomly chosen, every session's discussion is different and it is unknown to what exent the participants will be "divided" if at all. Reservation required. ====S: Saving Lives Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-HungaryPavilion.jpg|thumb|Hungary Pavilion]] * '''Commons C''' (S01) - Feaures exhibits from Croatia, Gabon, Guatemala, Israel, Montenegro, Panama, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Uruguay. Has a Gabon restaurant. * '''Chile''' (S02) - Mostly empty room with weavings on the ceiling. * '''Tunisia''' (S03) - Makes good use of the small pavilion with projections and the opportunity to have your name written in Arabic, inscribe your name on a plate, or get handmade pottery from the man outside. Has a restaurant. * '''Cambodia''' (S04) - Recreates parts of a stone temple with a replica of Angkor Wat in the center. * '''Algeria''' (S05) - A video with an AI child. * '''Baltic''' (Latvia and Lithuania) (S06) - Medicinal herbs from these countries and art featuring their mascot. Estonia did not participate. * '''European Union''' (S07) - Has a machine-tended zen rock garden and colorful flower and origami exhibits. * '''Belgium''' (S08) Free Biscoff cookie when entering. Focuses on Belgium's importance in medical innovation and technology. * '''Italy and the Holy See''' (S09) - The theme is "Art Regenerates Life". The Italian part features authentic paintings and sculptures from Michaelangelo, pages from the Da Vinci Codex, Olympic Torches. The 16th century painting "Portrait of Ito Mancio" by Domenico Tintoretto commemorates the first diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. The Vatican contributed Caravaggio's painting "The Deposition" (also commonly called "The Entombment of Christ"), which depicts Christ being laid on th Anointing Stone by Nocodemus, John, and holy women. It is considered to be Caravaggio's best work. Although the authentic artwork is the highlight, the pavilion also features videos, Italian craftwork, modern inventions, and a rooftop garden. This is the most popular pavilion at the Expo. Reservations are available but not required. Without a reservation, expect 3+ hour wait on weekdays and 4+ hour wait on weekends. Has a restaurant. * '''Singapore''' (S11) - Focused around dreams, it's an interactive exhibit that allows you to write down your dream and then move into the projection dome where your dream will appear to help build the city. * '''Bulgaria''' (S12) - In Japan, Bulgaria is synonymous with yogurt in the most literal sense; "Bulgaria" is the name of a popular yogurt brand. Bulgaria introduced yogurt to Japan at the 1970 Expo. Because of this association, the pavilion uses yogurt and its bacteria as the base from which to introduce ideas about different cultures working together for the betterment of society like the good yogurt bacteria does in the human body. There is also a video where you can see the wishes of those who previously visited and you can use the QR code in the pavilion to write your own wishes for the next groups to read. English tours at 18:00 each day, arrive a few minutes early and tell the staff (do not get in the queue if you are doing the English tour). * '''Netherlands''' (S13) - Carrying a glowing orb as your guide, you'll learn about the history of the Netherlands' relationship with its waterways, from hardships to modern innovations intended to harness its power. Reservations required after 11:00. * '''Commons D''' (S14) - Features exhibits from Antigua and Barbuda, Cameroon, Cuba, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Honduras, Laos, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Mongolia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Tajikistan, Togo, Burkina Faso, Belize, and Bhutan * '''Oman''' (S15) - Projection mappings and a video. Has a restaurant. * '''Hungary''' (S16) - Local flora and a concert by a folk singer. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons E''' (S17) - Features art exhibits. * '''Poland''' (S20) - Flower projections and art made with traditional Polish goods. * '''Romania''' (S21) A video, live performance, and exhibits of traditional woodwork and handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''United Kingdom''' (S22) - Themed around dreams as "building blocks", follows a block mascot and daughter talking to her father in the UK. Features an interactive game. Has a restaurant. * '''Angola''' (S23) Opened in late June, the pavilion features a video story about a girl with malaria that promotes a future where modern medicine without devaluing traditional medicine. After that, you can listen to different people speak about various topics. Has a restaurant. ====C: Connecting Lives Zone==== [[File:韓国 パビリオン.jpg|thumb|Korea Pavilion]] * '''Nepal''' (C01) (not open as of June 2025) * '''Luxembourg''' (C02) - A video about life in Luxembourg, exhibits about Luxembourg as "the heart of Europe" * '''Germany''' (C03) - Carrying a light-up mascot of the pavilion, it will guide you in the language of your choice (Japanese, English, or German). The pavilion focuses on sustainability and solving modern problems, such as what to do with abandoned city housing. Roll your mascot down a chute to exit the pavilion. * '''Korea''' (C04) - A sound and light show, green energy art displays, and video * '''Commons F''' (C05) - Features exhibits from Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Brunei Darussalam * '''Azerbaijan''' (C07) - Arguably one of the most beautiful from the outside with its white arches and wooden ethnic dancers that spin over water between each arch, inside there is a rather long video followed by a hall of cultural objects from the country. Has a restaurant. * '''Monaco''' (C10) - Consists of 3 separate buildings, the first featuring a video of Monaco's culture, sensory touching, and a tacky VR experience. The others are located along an outside path with small gardens and interactive play spaces. They feature a maritime protection building with an attractive central pillar and projections and another small building with touch panels to learn more about the country. Has a wine bar. * '''Turkey''' (C11) - The main intrigue is the illuminated sun and moon, the sun representing Japan and the moon representing Turkey. The outside Turkish ice cream and Turkish food vendor are more popular than the pavilion itself. * '''Thailand''' (C12) - After a video introduction, the exhibits focus on food. Reservations for Thai massages can be made. Has a restaurant. * '''Spain''' (C13) - Exhibits about the ocean followed by a vibrant orange room with some postcards. * '''Saudi Arabia''' (C14) - Arabian architecture, multiple buildings with different exhibits and a central area where performances and demonstrations are held. Project-mapping is done of the buildings at night. Has a cafe. * '''Australia''' (C15) - Recreates a forest with video representations of local animals appearing in the trees. * '''Indonesia''' (C16) - A Sumatran forest with unique animals scattered about, a thoughtful video, and authentic blades from various ethnic groups * '''India''' (C17) - The pavilion was built to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of Enlightenment. Inside there are videos about Indian innovations along with Indian cultural objects. * '''Uzbekistan''' (C18) - Introduces the culture of the country before taking you to the roof which utilizes the same wood as the Grand Ring in its own unique design. * '''Serbia''' (C19) - "Understanding through play" is the theme, so it features a variety of interactive exhibits. * '''Bangladesh''' (C20) - Various objects around the room with a video in the back. * '''Senegal''' (C21) - Words on the wall about the country and a shop. * '''Egypt''' (C22) - Video projections of famous Egyptian sites. * '''Commons B''' (C23) - Features exhibits from Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Guyana, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Djibouti, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Somalia, Tanzania, Chad, Central African Republic, Tuvalu, Dominica, Nauru, Haiti, Paraguay, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Benin, Micronesia, Mauritania, and Lesotho. ====F: Forest of Tranquility==== [[File:Expo2025静けさの森、中心部の池.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Forest of Tranquility]] An attractive forest with paths for visitors to explore in the center of the inner ring. It consists of trees that were scheduled for thinning from Expo 70 Commemoration Park in [[Suita]] along with trees transplanted from other parks around Osaka Prefecture, including Osaka Castle Park. For passport stamp collectors, the Forest of Tranquility is one of the only venues that does not have a stamp. This is on purpose; frantic stamp collecting is neither relaxing nor tranquil. ===Outside the Grand Ring=== The following are venues located outside the grand ring representing Japan with the Japan Pavilion, Kansai Pavilion, and 12 Japanese megacorps pavilions, along with other non-country pavilions, such as the Women's Pavilion. These are typically highlights of the exposition, with Bandai's GUNDAM Pavilion guaranteed to draw crowds. They are well worth visiting but nearly all require reservations, so temper your expectations. You'll need multiple days with lots of lottery luck if you plan to enter more than just a few. ====E: East Gate Zone==== * '''Kansai''' (E01) Features some of the traditional prefectures that make up Kansai ([[Shiga]], [[Mie]], [[Wakayama (prefecture)|Wakayama]], [[Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]], [[Hyogo]], along with [[Tottori (prefecture)|Tottori]], [[Fukui (prefecture)|Fukui]], and [[Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima]]. Each prefecture has its own exhibition space branching off from the center. There is a [[Nara (prefecture)|Nara]] stamp for collectors however, Nara does not have an exhibition space. Osaka is not featured because the Expo is in Osaka and one hope of the pavilion is to inspire visitors to explore other prefectures. The exhibitions and features change throughout the festival, but the overall experience is similar: **Shiga: A 20 minute video with floating ball art. **Mie: Walk through a tunnel with projection-mappings of prefectural beauty followed by interactive exhibits where you can open doors and turn flaps to see and learn about famous places, objects, products, animals, and nature from the prefecture. **Wakayama: Large taiko drums for performances. **Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]]: Features local lacquerware art and products. **Hyogo: A video of prefectural highlights **Tottori: Using a magnifying glass, as a nod to Detective Conan whose creator is from [[Hokuei]], you first walk on sand from the Tottori Sand Dunes to find and learn about various things from the prefecture followed by a projection-mapping show over the sand. **Fukui: Using digital flashlights, you can find dinosaur fossils and then shine your light on Fukui dinosaurs, such as Fukuititan and Fukuiraptors, as they move around you. **Tokushima: Known for its indigo dyes, visitors can dip a thread into indigo dye and tie it to a traditional drying rack. There are also some cultural objects and a few interaction displays that you can feel and smell. Reservation required. * '''Osaka Healthcare''' (E02) - Has information about Japanese innovations in healthcare, demonstrations of a self-washer (an updated one from that which was featured at the 1970s Expo), and a body scan that creates an AI version of you and tells you where your health will likely take you in 2050. Reservations required, different reservations exist for regular entry versus regular entry plus the 2050 avatar experience. * '''NTT''' (E03) - Starts with a 3-D glasses video of the music group Perfume singing followed by a video show using the bodies of those in the room. Outside there are old-fashioned phones inside phone booths that play various sounds when you dial the numbers. Reservation required (outside phones can be used by anyone). * '''Mitsubishi''' (E05) - A video. Reservation required. * '''Panasonic Group - The Land of Nomo''' (E06) - Walk through with a crystal that you can use to interact with various exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Sumitomo''' (E07) - With the theme "The Unknown Forest", it begins with a video that sets the tone and setting of the forest before visitors are able to explore the unknown forest themselves on a walk with hand-held lanterns. Reservation required. * '''Electric Power - Eggs of Possibilities''' (E08) - Walk through the pavilion holding a glowing egg. There is a light show as well as interactive exhibits, some of which require use of your egg. Reservation required. * '''Women's Pavilion in Collaboration with Cartier''' (E09) - Using an audio guide (English option available), visitors are randomly separated into three groups to follow the story of one of three women before reuniting to read timelines of recent achievements by women, improvements in laws protecting women, and female firsts. Lastly, there is a room with various people (including men) with holes in their chests that you reach into to hear their stories. Reservations possible but not required. * '''Japan''' (E10) - With an attractive architectural design, the building has excellent visual exhibits showcasing Japanese innovations related to sustainability, such as plastic disintegration and algae, including the Hello Kitty algae display that for many became symbols of the Expo alongside the mascot. The pavilion is informative yet also artistic. Non-reservations from 9:00-11:00 and 19:30-21:00, Reservation required during daytime. * '''EXPO Hall "Shining Hat"''' (E11) - Has projection-mapping on the outside at night. * '''EXPO National Day Hall "Ray Garden"''' (E12) - A National Day is held for each country participating in the Expo. This is where they hold those performances. Nearly every day is a "national day". Visitors can check the website to see if their visit day coincides with a National Day that interests them. * '''Gallery EAST''' (E13) - A small showcase of paintings and cultural objects. ====W: West Gate Zone==== * '''Tech World (Taiwan)''' (W02) - Taiwan is not permitted to have a pavilion under its name, so in spite of the name "Tech World", this is Taiwan's pavilion. It features a projection-mapping about its nature and information about its technology with a focus on IC chips. * '''Gas Pavilion Obake Wonderland''' (W03) - "Ghost Wonderland". With a VR headset, you become a ghost and can interact with your surroundings as you navigate the world. Lessons about human waste manifest in the CO2 monster that must be destroyed. Popular with children. Reservation required. * '''Iida Group''' (W04) - Videos and models of their vision of future Smart Homes surrounded by circles (much like the Grand Ring) that contain grocery stores, shopping malls, and other necessities and entertainment for those in the apartments. * '''ORA Gaishoku''' (W05) - A dining facility showcasing Osaka foods. It contains a variety of Japanese cultural objects including an entire float from the Nebuta Festival in [[Aomori]]. * '''Blue Ocean Dome''' (W06) - Follow water droplets through a Pythagorean device also known as a Rube Goldberg machine-style contraption followed by a video. Reservation required. * '''Gundam NEXT Future''' (W07) - Uses videos to make you feel like you're inside a Gundam looking out during a battle. Reservation required. * '''Pasona Natureverse''' (W09) - Utilizes Astro Boy, a former vision of the future, to introduce a "Neo-Astro Boy", with exhibits about life-giving medicine. One of the highlights is a real lab-grown beating heart made from IPS cells. The Astro Boy statue sitting on the building is a popular photo op. * '''Yoshiimoto waraii myraii''' (W10) - Described as a waste of space by adults, children enjoy rolling down the slopes on the outside. * '''EXPO Exhibition Center "WASSE"''' (W11) - A space that is used for events, gatherings, and limited-time exhibitions. ====L: Future Life Zone==== The Future Life Village houses most of the featured sites, so they are more like booths or areas rather than individual pavilions. Most exhibits in this area are scheduled to change monthly, so there isn't a set experience and those who have visited before can have a different experience if they visit in a different month. * '''Gallery West''' (L01) - Has a small indoor display and VR experience and an outdoor space that is used for events throughout the expo. * '''Future Life Experience''' (L02) - Exhibits of how culture, food, and healthcare may look in the future. * '''Team Expo''' (L03) - Focuses on promoting people to take action in their lives on goals set for the future. * '''Mobility Experience''' (L04) - The launching and landing place of the advanced mobility aircraft. * '''Future City''' (L05) - A virtual experience of "The City of Happiness" which is set up much like the expo with a ring around central apartments and restaurants, shops, and a park located on the ring and around the buildings to create a small, self-contained living space with all of one's essentials very close by. * '''Expo Arena "Matsuri"''' (L06) - A large open space with a central stage for concerts and large events. * '''Junior SDG Camp''' (L07) - The actual Junior SDGs Camp is for schools however for stamp collectors, this one is stamped via an 11.5kg concrete weight. * '''Expo Sauna "Taiyo's Tsubomi"''' (L08) - Described as an "experimental sauna ritual", it utilizes heat from the sun to create the sauna's heat. The "ritual" comes from the way you use it. A guide takes visitors through each of the sauna's experiences in the order you're meant to use them. Scents and sounds are used, and the facilities come with instructions, such as a bath where you are to submerge at least up to your ears in order to experience not just the bath but also the sounds that are meant to have soothing effects. Only 100 people can enter per day. ==Do== [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/events/ Numerous events] big and small are held during the Expo. The most easily accessible is the '''One World, One Planet''' show, a synchronized show of sound, lighting and projection mapping across the entire venue, held daily after sunset. ==Buy== [[File:Myaku-Myaku Expo 2025 (best mascot ever).jpg|thumb|Myaku-Myaku]] The '''Expo 2025 Official Store''' has an East Gate and a West Gate shop so whichever is your entrypoint, you will be near a gift shop. You can buy '''Expo passports''' at these shops and they contain the widest variety of goods. Maps of the Expo must also be purchased at information centers near the entrances. The Expo's official mascot is '''Myaku-Myaku''' (ミャクミャク), a bizarre cross between a multi-eyed amoeba and a donut. Gift shops are featured throughout the site, including by the gates, which feature the mascot as many different products. There are also many corporate collaborations featuring the mascot, such as Sanrio characters in a costume of the mascot. Many country pavilions have small gift shops retailing local products, and you can pick up corporate merchandise at most of the company pavilions. ==Eat== Many pavilions will have places to eat featuring their own nation's foods. There are also scattered food trucks, tents, and food courts. The '''ORA Gaishoku''' in the West Gate Zone (''see above'') is a pavilion that is entirely a dining facility, featuring Osaka cuisine. The '''Kura-zushi''' is particularly popular. Conveyer-belt sushi was actually first introduced at Osaka's 1970s Expo, so it was een as fitting to include it upon the Expo's return to the city. The highlight at this Expo is that it features sushi with foods and flavors from over 70 countries, all of which are participating in the Expo. There are 338 seats, making it the largest Kura-zushi restaurant. Reservations are required. A visitor poll actually showed that '''bento's from home''' were the most popular food to eat. When it comes to bringing food and drinks, the food can stay in your bags and be run through the x-rays as normal. Drinks need to be removed from your bags and shown to the security staff at the entrance. If your drink is sealed, you can go through easily. If it is not sealed, they may have you drink some in front of them to prove it is a beverage. They have the authority to confiscate drinks that they deem suspicious, but this is not an issue for most people, and if it does occur, you can purchase drinks at vending machines or convenience stores inside the Expo. ==Drink== There are vending machines throughout the Expo and convenience stores to get drinks to stay hydrated. For alcohol, some country pavilions have their own local beers and wines. Most sit-down restaurants in the pavilion have some alchohol on offer. In addition, there are fun non-alcoholic but exotic drinks not typically available in Japan, such as camel milk at the UAE Pavilion and baobab juice at the African Restaurant, Panaf. ==Sleep== There is no lodging available on site, but it's located in [[Osaka]], which has a wide variety of hotels. Reserve as early as possible. {{guideevent}} {{PartOfTopic|Calendar of events and festivals|Japan}} 5ogx3r246y0a7ikgpf2dcsdfl9d8sdw 5090891 5090874 2025-07-10T14:58:40Z ChubbyWimbus 109402 /* Eat */ 5090891 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|大屋根リング夜景全景.jpg}} '''Expo 2025''' (大阪・関西万博 ''Osaka-Kansai Banpaku'') is the site of the [[World's Fair]] for 2025 in [[Osaka]], [[Japan]]. It will run for 6 months from April 13, 2025 until October 13, 2025. ==Understand== [[File:EXPO2025_null2_Appearance.jpg|thumb|null² Pavilion]] Osaka-Kansai 2025 is Japan's third Universal Exposition after Expo '70, also held in Osaka, and [[Expo 2005]] near [[Nagoya]]. The official theme is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". 28 million visitors are projected to attend the exposition, which is spread across 155 hectares on the artificial island of Yumeshima (夢洲, "Dream Island") in the [[Osaka/Bay Area|Bay Area]] district of Osaka. After the Expo is over, Yumeshima will see a different type of dream or nightmare come to life, as Japan's first casino is set to open here in 2030. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/ Event website] ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=14}} {{main|Osaka#Get in}} Visitors to the Expo will generally arrive via Japan's second largest city [[Osaka]], which is a well-connected major travel hub served by [[Kansai International Airport]] ({{IATA|KIX}}) and the JR Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train from [[Tokyo]]. See [[Osaka#Get in]] for the details. Once in Osaka, the Expo site is best accessed via {{marker|type=go|name=Yumeshima Station|wikidata=Q60987816}} (夢洲駅) on the Metro Chuo Line from central Osaka. There are also direct shuttle buses from Kansai and Itami airports as well as major train stations including Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen connections), Osaka and Namba. See [https://www.transport.expo2025.or.jp/en the official transport site] for schedules. When you buy your ticket online, you will need to choose the date, entry time, and gate. You must enter from the gate that you selected. If you are arriving at Yumeshima Station, the East Gate is closest. If you are arriving by car or by bus, the West Gate is closer. There is a walking course between each gate, so you can still enter, but you'll have a 15-20 minute walk if you choose the gate furthest from your entry point. When you get to the Expo, you will be asked to go through a scanner similar to you would at an airport. You need to remove any drinks from your bags to be checked. Once you are through security, you must present your QR Code ticket. A screenshot of your QR code ticket also suffices. ==Get around== Walking is the primary way to get around. Skateboards, scooters, roller skates, etc. are banned from being brought into the Expo. There is a bus that circles the Expo and stops near various points that requires a reservation in order to use. ==See== During the Expo, adult one-day ticket options include &yen;7500 for an unlimited full day ticket, &yen;6000 weekday tickets valid from 11:00, and &yen;3700 for "night tickets" valid from 17:00 on the ticket, but you can enter from 16:00. Discounted senior, student and group tickets are also available. Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. The sheer size of the Expo means that it is impossible to cover everything in one day, and access to some of the more popular events and pavilions is capacity controlled with several rather convoluted systems. Allow at least two days if you wish to visit all pavilions of interest. It is wise to choose in advance which of the high-profile sites you want to visit and get them reserved early, then fill in the gaps with the more low-key attractions. Lines tend to shorten as the Expo approaches closing time, although if you cut it too close you run the risk of not getting in at all. * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/private_pavilion/ Full list]. ===Grand Ring=== [[File:Oyane-ring southeast.jpg|thumb|The Grand Ring]] The {{marker|type=see|name=Grand Ring|wikidata=Q133959805}} is a 2 km timber structure and walkway that rises to a height of 20 metres. One of the world's largest wooden structures, it offers views of the entire exhibition area. People can walk freely under the ring, which has benches, vending machines, and a few shops. It also provides respite from summer heat and rain. Some pavilions located along the perimeter, such as Bulgaria and Italy, have their queues under the ring. The top of the ring can be accessed by a handful of escalators scattered around its perimeter or by stairs which can also be used in case of emergency. At the center of the exhibition area within the Grand Ring, [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/official-participant/ over 100 countries] have their own pavilions along with the Signature Pavilions. There are five "commons" buildings, which house multiple countries who don't have their own pavilions. They are scattered throughout the Grand Ring and its sections. The following zones are located within the Grand Ring. They include the pavilion number for easy map-checking as the official maps use the numbers. ====P: Empowering Lives Zone==== [[File:EXPO 2025 America Pavilion.jpg|thumb|USA Pavilion]] * '''Ireland''' (P01) - The building is designed to represent the Irish triskele. Inside there is a scent area where you can smell Irish plants, an exhibit about Lafcadio Hearn who was part Irish, and Irish folk music performances. * '''Malaysia''' (P02) - Begins with colorful cultural displays of foods from each region of the country followed by exhibits about the future. A highlight is the central tree made from traditional handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons A''' (P03) Features exhibits and shops of Barbados, Bolivia, Burundi, Comoros, Eswatini, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritius, North Macedonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Suriname, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Yemen * '''Jordan''' (P04) - Has videos of culture and tourist attractions, musical stones, and 22 tons of sand from [[Wadi Rum]] that visitors can walk on and touch. Although it is one of the small pavilions, the sand and interactive experiences have made it very popular. Waiting times can go past 2 hours. * '''Peru''' (P05) - Video about the history and culture followed by cultural object displays. * '''Advanced Air Mobility''' (p07) - A video about air mobility. Reservation required. * '''Mozambique''' (P08) - Video followed by displays of cultural objects. * '''Philippines''' (P09) - "Woven" is the theme, and the exterior features woven hammocks. Inside, there are weavings, and you can dance around as an AI plant. * '''United States'''(P11) - A star mascot and catchy theme song guide you through scenes from around the country before leading into exhibits about American space innovations. The theme song is in English for the English tours and in Japanese for Japanese tours. Chinese tours are also available twice per day. Has a restaurant. * '''France''' (P12) - An exhibit that alternates Louis Vuitton art installations and authentic Rodin hand sculptures. The odd combination of vapid consumerism and deep cultural heritage somehow manages to feel coherent and impressive. Has a restaurant. * '''Robot and Mobility''' (P14) - Showcases drones, cars, etc. with occasional demonstrations. * '''Vietnam''' (P15) - Small, with clothing, a recreated temple, and other objects and information. At certain times they perform traditional museum with the instruments on display. * '''Qatar''' (P17) - Designed to represent the nation's dhows, the inner exhibits also feature the country's relationship with the sea. * '''United Arab Emirates''' (P18) - Features giant pillars made of date palm trees, information is scattered about the spacious room with 3 rotating videos featured in the back. Has a restaurant. * '''Canada'''(P19) - Walk through ice bergs and other exhibits with a handheld VR tablet that will show various scenes of Canada when you point them at the physical objects. * '''Portugal''' (P20) - Themed around the ocean and the need to take better care of it. * '''Colombia''' (P21) - Butterfly lights on the ceiling guide you through the pavilion to view the actual typewriter used by Gabriel Garcia Martez to write the novel One Hundred Years of Solitude, a circle of objects from the country that you can touch, and an information room. Has a restaurant. * '''Switzerland''' (P22) - You can say your wish for the "future society" into a microphone and create a real bubble that takes your wish upwards * '''Austria''' (P23) - Video of musical history and musical touchscreens. * '''Brazil''' (P26) - Art installation in the main building featuring inflatables, exhibits about the country and paints available for you to paint tribal patterns on your face or hands. * '''Kuwait''' (P27) - Contains a video of a futuristic vision of the country and actual sand brought from the dessert that you can touch and compare to sand you've felt in Japan or elsewhere. * '''China''' (P28) - Animated videos of Chinese culture in a traditional painting-style and replicas of cultural treasures. * '''International Organizations Pavilion''' (P29) - World Expo Museum, ITER project, ASEAN * '''United Nations''' (P30) - History of the UN, how the UN effects people's lives, a video, and a shop. * '''Red Cross and Red Crescent''' (P31) - A video and information about what the organization does. * '''Bahrain''' (P34) - Contains a variety of objects made by craftsman and cultural objects. * '''Turkmenistan''' (P35) - Has a video about the country followed by some cultural objects. The colorful building featuring a white horse is considered to be one of the most eye-catching at the Expo. * '''Nordic''' (Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) (P36) - A glorified lounge; lots of space, not much to see. Has a restaurant. * '''Malta''' (P37) - Features videos of Malta's history and 3 authentic samurai armor suits gifted to Malta by Fukuzawa Yukichi in 1862 that have not been on display since they put in storage for safety during WWII. * '''Czech Republic''' (P38) - Built with materials from the Czech Republic, such as spruce and Bohemian glass. Artwork lines the walls and art using the glass is also featured. ====X: Signature Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-DYNAMIC EQUILIBRIUM OF LIFE-pavilion.jpg|thumb|Dynamic Equilibrium of Life Pavilion]] * '''Better Co-Being''' (X01) - An open-air exhibit of various art installations intended to bring people closer together, the daytime experience feels more in touch with nature while the nighttime experience feels more otherworldy. Reservation required. * '''Future of Life''' (X02) - Gives history of projecting life onto objects ending in robots and AI from where it introduces ideas of a future in which robots and humans live among each other. It follows the mental struggle of an elderly woman who must decide between dying a natural death or placing her memories inside a robot as a gift to her granddaughter so that she can continue to interact with "her" even after she passes. It posing questions about what is life and what does it mean to be human. It ends with robots emerging from peach-like structures, meant to evoke the Momotaro folktale, where you can see their expressions up close as they move and gesture towards you to show that robots are already capable of invoking emotion and response from you to further push visitors to confront discomforts surrounding robots. Reservation required. * '''Jellyfish Pavilion''' (X03) - A fun pavilion to relax in; it's especially pretty at night when it's lit up. * {{see | name=OCHIAI Yoichi's Signature Pavilion "Forging Lives" null² | alt=X04 | url=https://expo2025.digitalnatureandarts.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q134286794 | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content= Has two completely different experiences. The Installation tour is a 10 minute sound and visual art display. The Dialogue tour creates an AI version of you that you can communicate with and it will replicate you. Reservation required. }} * '''Dynamic Equilibrium of Life''' (X05) - The "dynamic equilibrium" is defined as "a system that is in constant change yet is balanced as a whole". This concept is artfully illustrated through a narrated (Japanese and English) light show. Reservation required. * '''Live Earth Journey: Totality of Life''' (X06) - A virtual reality experience. Reservation required. * '''Earth Mart''' (X07) - Attempts to show how we can eat sutainably through projections and a variety of interactive exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Dialogue of Theater''' (X08) - One participant is chosen from the crowd to engage in a dialogue with someone on video from elsewhere in Japan. Each of the 184 days of the Expo, the question that the two people must answer and discuss is different. The idea is to bridge divides by talking and engaging rather than dissociating. Because the participants are randomly chosen, every session's discussion is different and it is unknown to what exent the participants will be "divided" if at all. Reservation required. ====S: Saving Lives Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-HungaryPavilion.jpg|thumb|Hungary Pavilion]] * '''Commons C''' (S01) - Feaures exhibits from Croatia, Gabon, Guatemala, Israel, Montenegro, Panama, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Uruguay. Has a Gabon restaurant. * '''Chile''' (S02) - Mostly empty room with weavings on the ceiling. * '''Tunisia''' (S03) - Makes good use of the small pavilion with projections and the opportunity to have your name written in Arabic, inscribe your name on a plate, or get handmade pottery from the man outside. Has a restaurant. * '''Cambodia''' (S04) - Recreates parts of a stone temple with a replica of Angkor Wat in the center. * '''Algeria''' (S05) - A video with an AI child. * '''Baltic''' (Latvia and Lithuania) (S06) - Medicinal herbs from these countries and art featuring their mascot. Estonia did not participate. * '''European Union''' (S07) - Has a machine-tended zen rock garden and colorful flower and origami exhibits. * '''Belgium''' (S08) Free Biscoff cookie when entering. Focuses on Belgium's importance in medical innovation and technology. * '''Italy and the Holy See''' (S09) - The theme is "Art Regenerates Life". The Italian part features authentic paintings and sculptures from Michaelangelo, pages from the Da Vinci Codex, Olympic Torches. The 16th century painting "Portrait of Ito Mancio" by Domenico Tintoretto commemorates the first diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. The Vatican contributed Caravaggio's painting "The Deposition" (also commonly called "The Entombment of Christ"), which depicts Christ being laid on th Anointing Stone by Nocodemus, John, and holy women. It is considered to be Caravaggio's best work. Although the authentic artwork is the highlight, the pavilion also features videos, Italian craftwork, modern inventions, and a rooftop garden. This is the most popular pavilion at the Expo. Reservations are available but not required. Without a reservation, expect 3+ hour wait on weekdays and 4+ hour wait on weekends. Has a restaurant. * '''Singapore''' (S11) - Focused around dreams, it's an interactive exhibit that allows you to write down your dream and then move into the projection dome where your dream will appear to help build the city. * '''Bulgaria''' (S12) - In Japan, Bulgaria is synonymous with yogurt in the most literal sense; "Bulgaria" is the name of a popular yogurt brand. Bulgaria introduced yogurt to Japan at the 1970 Expo. Because of this association, the pavilion uses yogurt and its bacteria as the base from which to introduce ideas about different cultures working together for the betterment of society like the good yogurt bacteria does in the human body. There is also a video where you can see the wishes of those who previously visited and you can use the QR code in the pavilion to write your own wishes for the next groups to read. English tours at 18:00 each day, arrive a few minutes early and tell the staff (do not get in the queue if you are doing the English tour). * '''Netherlands''' (S13) - Carrying a glowing orb as your guide, you'll learn about the history of the Netherlands' relationship with its waterways, from hardships to modern innovations intended to harness its power. Reservations required after 11:00. * '''Commons D''' (S14) - Features exhibits from Antigua and Barbuda, Cameroon, Cuba, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Honduras, Laos, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Mongolia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Tajikistan, Togo, Burkina Faso, Belize, and Bhutan * '''Oman''' (S15) - Projection mappings and a video. Has a restaurant. * '''Hungary''' (S16) - Local flora and a concert by a folk singer. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons E''' (S17) - Features art exhibits. * '''Poland''' (S20) - Flower projections and art made with traditional Polish goods. * '''Romania''' (S21) A video, live performance, and exhibits of traditional woodwork and handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''United Kingdom''' (S22) - Themed around dreams as "building blocks", follows a block mascot and daughter talking to her father in the UK. Features an interactive game. Has a restaurant. * '''Angola''' (S23) Opened in late June, the pavilion features a video story about a girl with malaria that promotes a future where modern medicine without devaluing traditional medicine. After that, you can listen to different people speak about various topics. Has a restaurant. ====C: Connecting Lives Zone==== [[File:韓国 パビリオン.jpg|thumb|Korea Pavilion]] * '''Nepal''' (C01) (not open as of June 2025) * '''Luxembourg''' (C02) - A video about life in Luxembourg, exhibits about Luxembourg as "the heart of Europe" * '''Germany''' (C03) - Carrying a light-up mascot of the pavilion, it will guide you in the language of your choice (Japanese, English, or German). The pavilion focuses on sustainability and solving modern problems, such as what to do with abandoned city housing. Roll your mascot down a chute to exit the pavilion. * '''Korea''' (C04) - A sound and light show, green energy art displays, and video * '''Commons F''' (C05) - Features exhibits from Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Brunei Darussalam * '''Azerbaijan''' (C07) - Arguably one of the most beautiful from the outside with its white arches and wooden ethnic dancers that spin over water between each arch, inside there is a rather long video followed by a hall of cultural objects from the country. Has a restaurant. * '''Monaco''' (C10) - Consists of 3 separate buildings, the first featuring a video of Monaco's culture, sensory touching, and a tacky VR experience. The others are located along an outside path with small gardens and interactive play spaces. They feature a maritime protection building with an attractive central pillar and projections and another small building with touch panels to learn more about the country. Has a wine bar. * '''Turkey''' (C11) - The main intrigue is the illuminated sun and moon, the sun representing Japan and the moon representing Turkey. The outside Turkish ice cream and Turkish food vendor are more popular than the pavilion itself. * '''Thailand''' (C12) - After a video introduction, the exhibits focus on food. Reservations for Thai massages can be made. Has a restaurant. * '''Spain''' (C13) - Exhibits about the ocean followed by a vibrant orange room with some postcards. * '''Saudi Arabia''' (C14) - Arabian architecture, multiple buildings with different exhibits and a central area where performances and demonstrations are held. Project-mapping is done of the buildings at night. Has a cafe. * '''Australia''' (C15) - Recreates a forest with video representations of local animals appearing in the trees. * '''Indonesia''' (C16) - A Sumatran forest with unique animals scattered about, a thoughtful video, and authentic blades from various ethnic groups * '''India''' (C17) - The pavilion was built to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of Enlightenment. Inside there are videos about Indian innovations along with Indian cultural objects. * '''Uzbekistan''' (C18) - Introduces the culture of the country before taking you to the roof which utilizes the same wood as the Grand Ring in its own unique design. * '''Serbia''' (C19) - "Understanding through play" is the theme, so it features a variety of interactive exhibits. * '''Bangladesh''' (C20) - Various objects around the room with a video in the back. * '''Senegal''' (C21) - Words on the wall about the country and a shop. * '''Egypt''' (C22) - Video projections of famous Egyptian sites. * '''Commons B''' (C23) - Features exhibits from Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Guyana, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Djibouti, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Somalia, Tanzania, Chad, Central African Republic, Tuvalu, Dominica, Nauru, Haiti, Paraguay, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Benin, Micronesia, Mauritania, and Lesotho. ====F: Forest of Tranquility==== [[File:Expo2025静けさの森、中心部の池.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Forest of Tranquility]] An attractive forest with paths for visitors to explore in the center of the inner ring. It consists of trees that were scheduled for thinning from Expo 70 Commemoration Park in [[Suita]] along with trees transplanted from other parks around Osaka Prefecture, including Osaka Castle Park. For passport stamp collectors, the Forest of Tranquility is one of the only venues that does not have a stamp. This is on purpose; frantic stamp collecting is neither relaxing nor tranquil. ===Outside the Grand Ring=== The following are venues located outside the grand ring representing Japan with the Japan Pavilion, Kansai Pavilion, and 12 Japanese megacorps pavilions, along with other non-country pavilions, such as the Women's Pavilion. These are typically highlights of the exposition, with Bandai's GUNDAM Pavilion guaranteed to draw crowds. They are well worth visiting but nearly all require reservations, so temper your expectations. You'll need multiple days with lots of lottery luck if you plan to enter more than just a few. ====E: East Gate Zone==== * '''Kansai''' (E01) Features some of the traditional prefectures that make up Kansai ([[Shiga]], [[Mie]], [[Wakayama (prefecture)|Wakayama]], [[Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]], [[Hyogo]], along with [[Tottori (prefecture)|Tottori]], [[Fukui (prefecture)|Fukui]], and [[Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima]]. Each prefecture has its own exhibition space branching off from the center. There is a [[Nara (prefecture)|Nara]] stamp for collectors however, Nara does not have an exhibition space. Osaka is not featured because the Expo is in Osaka and one hope of the pavilion is to inspire visitors to explore other prefectures. The exhibitions and features change throughout the festival, but the overall experience is similar: **Shiga: A 20 minute video with floating ball art. **Mie: Walk through a tunnel with projection-mappings of prefectural beauty followed by interactive exhibits where you can open doors and turn flaps to see and learn about famous places, objects, products, animals, and nature from the prefecture. **Wakayama: Large taiko drums for performances. **Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]]: Features local lacquerware art and products. **Hyogo: A video of prefectural highlights **Tottori: Using a magnifying glass, as a nod to Detective Conan whose creator is from [[Hokuei]], you first walk on sand from the Tottori Sand Dunes to find and learn about various things from the prefecture followed by a projection-mapping show over the sand. **Fukui: Using digital flashlights, you can find dinosaur fossils and then shine your light on Fukui dinosaurs, such as Fukuititan and Fukuiraptors, as they move around you. **Tokushima: Known for its indigo dyes, visitors can dip a thread into indigo dye and tie it to a traditional drying rack. There are also some cultural objects and a few interaction displays that you can feel and smell. Reservation required. * '''Osaka Healthcare''' (E02) - Has information about Japanese innovations in healthcare, demonstrations of a self-washer (an updated one from that which was featured at the 1970s Expo), and a body scan that creates an AI version of you and tells you where your health will likely take you in 2050. Reservations required, different reservations exist for regular entry versus regular entry plus the 2050 avatar experience. * '''NTT''' (E03) - Starts with a 3-D glasses video of the music group Perfume singing followed by a video show using the bodies of those in the room. Outside there are old-fashioned phones inside phone booths that play various sounds when you dial the numbers. Reservation required (outside phones can be used by anyone). * '''Mitsubishi''' (E05) - A video. Reservation required. * '''Panasonic Group - The Land of Nomo''' (E06) - Walk through with a crystal that you can use to interact with various exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Sumitomo''' (E07) - With the theme "The Unknown Forest", it begins with a video that sets the tone and setting of the forest before visitors are able to explore the unknown forest themselves on a walk with hand-held lanterns. Reservation required. * '''Electric Power - Eggs of Possibilities''' (E08) - Walk through the pavilion holding a glowing egg. There is a light show as well as interactive exhibits, some of which require use of your egg. Reservation required. * '''Women's Pavilion in Collaboration with Cartier''' (E09) - Using an audio guide (English option available), visitors are randomly separated into three groups to follow the story of one of three women before reuniting to read timelines of recent achievements by women, improvements in laws protecting women, and female firsts. Lastly, there is a room with various people (including men) with holes in their chests that you reach into to hear their stories. Reservations possible but not required. * '''Japan''' (E10) - With an attractive architectural design, the building has excellent visual exhibits showcasing Japanese innovations related to sustainability, such as plastic disintegration and algae, including the Hello Kitty algae display that for many became symbols of the Expo alongside the mascot. The pavilion is informative yet also artistic. Non-reservations from 9:00-11:00 and 19:30-21:00, Reservation required during daytime. * '''EXPO Hall "Shining Hat"''' (E11) - Has projection-mapping on the outside at night. * '''EXPO National Day Hall "Ray Garden"''' (E12) - A National Day is held for each country participating in the Expo. This is where they hold those performances. Nearly every day is a "national day". Visitors can check the website to see if their visit day coincides with a National Day that interests them. * '''Gallery EAST''' (E13) - A small showcase of paintings and cultural objects. ====W: West Gate Zone==== * '''Tech World (Taiwan)''' (W02) - Taiwan is not permitted to have a pavilion under its name, so in spite of the name "Tech World", this is Taiwan's pavilion. It features a projection-mapping about its nature and information about its technology with a focus on IC chips. * '''Gas Pavilion Obake Wonderland''' (W03) - "Ghost Wonderland". With a VR headset, you become a ghost and can interact with your surroundings as you navigate the world. Lessons about human waste manifest in the CO2 monster that must be destroyed. Popular with children. Reservation required. * '''Iida Group''' (W04) - Videos and models of their vision of future Smart Homes surrounded by circles (much like the Grand Ring) that contain grocery stores, shopping malls, and other necessities and entertainment for those in the apartments. * '''ORA Gaishoku''' (W05) - A dining facility showcasing Osaka foods. It contains a variety of Japanese cultural objects including an entire float from the Nebuta Festival in [[Aomori]]. * '''Blue Ocean Dome''' (W06) - Follow water droplets through a Pythagorean device also known as a Rube Goldberg machine-style contraption followed by a video. Reservation required. * '''Gundam NEXT Future''' (W07) - Uses videos to make you feel like you're inside a Gundam looking out during a battle. Reservation required. * '''Pasona Natureverse''' (W09) - Utilizes Astro Boy, a former vision of the future, to introduce a "Neo-Astro Boy", with exhibits about life-giving medicine. One of the highlights is a real lab-grown beating heart made from IPS cells. The Astro Boy statue sitting on the building is a popular photo op. * '''Yoshiimoto waraii myraii''' (W10) - Described as a waste of space by adults, children enjoy rolling down the slopes on the outside. * '''EXPO Exhibition Center "WASSE"''' (W11) - A space that is used for events, gatherings, and limited-time exhibitions. ====L: Future Life Zone==== The Future Life Village houses most of the featured sites, so they are more like booths or areas rather than individual pavilions. Most exhibits in this area are scheduled to change monthly, so there isn't a set experience and those who have visited before can have a different experience if they visit in a different month. * '''Gallery West''' (L01) - Has a small indoor display and VR experience and an outdoor space that is used for events throughout the expo. * '''Future Life Experience''' (L02) - Exhibits of how culture, food, and healthcare may look in the future. * '''Team Expo''' (L03) - Focuses on promoting people to take action in their lives on goals set for the future. * '''Mobility Experience''' (L04) - The launching and landing place of the advanced mobility aircraft. * '''Future City''' (L05) - A virtual experience of "The City of Happiness" which is set up much like the expo with a ring around central apartments and restaurants, shops, and a park located on the ring and around the buildings to create a small, self-contained living space with all of one's essentials very close by. * '''Expo Arena "Matsuri"''' (L06) - A large open space with a central stage for concerts and large events. * '''Junior SDG Camp''' (L07) - The actual Junior SDGs Camp is for schools however for stamp collectors, this one is stamped via an 11.5kg concrete weight. * '''Expo Sauna "Taiyo's Tsubomi"''' (L08) - Described as an "experimental sauna ritual", it utilizes heat from the sun to create the sauna's heat. The "ritual" comes from the way you use it. A guide takes visitors through each of the sauna's experiences in the order you're meant to use them. Scents and sounds are used, and the facilities come with instructions, such as a bath where you are to submerge at least up to your ears in order to experience not just the bath but also the sounds that are meant to have soothing effects. Only 100 people can enter per day. ==Do== [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/events/ Numerous events] big and small are held during the Expo. The most easily accessible is the '''One World, One Planet''' show, a synchronized show of sound, lighting and projection mapping across the entire venue, held daily after sunset. ==Buy== [[File:Myaku-Myaku Expo 2025 (best mascot ever).jpg|thumb|Myaku-Myaku]] The '''Expo 2025 Official Store''' has an East Gate and a West Gate shop so whichever is your entrypoint, you will be near a gift shop. You can buy '''Expo passports''' at these shops and they contain the widest variety of goods. Maps of the Expo must also be purchased at information centers near the entrances. The Expo's official mascot is '''Myaku-Myaku''' (ミャクミャク), a bizarre cross between a multi-eyed amoeba and a donut. Gift shops are featured throughout the site, including by the gates, which feature the mascot as many different products. There are also many corporate collaborations featuring the mascot, such as Sanrio characters in a costume of the mascot. Many country pavilions have small gift shops retailing local products, and you can pick up corporate merchandise at most of the company pavilions. ==Eat== Many pavilions will have places to eat featuring their own nation's foods. There are also scattered food trucks, tents, and food courts. The convenience store prices are the same as outside and some of the restaurants, such as ramen restaurants, are comparably reasonable. Most restaurants and international cuisine have highly inflated "Expo prices", so visitors hoping to enjoy foreign foods should expect to pay more. The '''ORA Gaishoku''' in the West Gate Zone (''see above'') is a pavilion that is entirely a dining facility, featuring Osaka cuisine. The area around it also has other restaurants such as a pizzeria and the African restaurant, PANAF. The '''Kura-zushi''' is particularly popular. Conveyer-belt sushi was actually first introduced at Osaka's 1970s Expo, so it was een as fitting to include it upon the Expo's return to the city. The highlight at this Expo is that it features sushi with foods and flavors from over 70 countries, all of which are participating in the Expo. There are 338 seats, making it the largest Kura-zushi restaurant. Reservations are required. A visitor poll actually showed that '''bento's from home''' were the most popular food to eat. When it comes to bringing food and drinks, the food can stay in your bags and be run through the x-rays as normal. Drinks need to be removed from your bags and shown to the security staff at the entrance. If your drink is sealed, you can go through easily. If it is not sealed, they may have you drink some in front of them to prove it is a beverage. They have the authority to confiscate drinks that they deem suspicious, but this is not an issue for most people, and if it does occur, you can purchase drinks at vending machines or convenience stores inside the Expo. ==Drink== There are vending machines throughout the Expo and convenience stores to get drinks to stay hydrated. For alcohol, some country pavilions have their own local beers and wines. Most sit-down restaurants in the pavilion have some alchohol on offer. In addition, there are fun non-alcoholic but exotic drinks not typically available in Japan, such as camel milk at the UAE Pavilion and baobab juice at the African Restaurant, Panaf. ==Sleep== There is no lodging available on site, but it's located in [[Osaka]], which has a wide variety of hotels. Reserve as early as possible. {{guideevent}} {{PartOfTopic|Calendar of events and festivals|Japan}} 2r4z6wi7ruzyc4vpst4gs05jeb06vrq 5091048 5090891 2025-07-10T20:27:38Z AlasdairW 1812 /* See */ add passes as the summer one looks good value even for a 2 day visit 5091048 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|大屋根リング夜景全景.jpg}} '''Expo 2025''' (大阪・関西万博 ''Osaka-Kansai Banpaku'') is the site of the [[World's Fair]] for 2025 in [[Osaka]], [[Japan]]. It will run for 6 months from April 13, 2025 until October 13, 2025. ==Understand== [[File:EXPO2025_null2_Appearance.jpg|thumb|null² Pavilion]] Osaka-Kansai 2025 is Japan's third Universal Exposition after Expo '70, also held in Osaka, and [[Expo 2005]] near [[Nagoya]]. The official theme is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". 28 million visitors are projected to attend the exposition, which is spread across 155 hectares on the artificial island of Yumeshima (夢洲, "Dream Island") in the [[Osaka/Bay Area|Bay Area]] district of Osaka. After the Expo is over, Yumeshima will see a different type of dream or nightmare come to life, as Japan's first casino is set to open here in 2030. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/ Event website] ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=14}} {{main|Osaka#Get in}} Visitors to the Expo will generally arrive via Japan's second largest city [[Osaka]], which is a well-connected major travel hub served by [[Kansai International Airport]] ({{IATA|KIX}}) and the JR Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train from [[Tokyo]]. See [[Osaka#Get in]] for the details. Once in Osaka, the Expo site is best accessed via {{marker|type=go|name=Yumeshima Station|wikidata=Q60987816}} (夢洲駅) on the Metro Chuo Line from central Osaka. There are also direct shuttle buses from Kansai and Itami airports as well as major train stations including Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen connections), Osaka and Namba. See [https://www.transport.expo2025.or.jp/en the official transport site] for schedules. When you buy your ticket online, you will need to choose the date, entry time, and gate. You must enter from the gate that you selected. If you are arriving at Yumeshima Station, the East Gate is closest. If you are arriving by car or by bus, the West Gate is closer. There is a walking course between each gate, so you can still enter, but you'll have a 15-20 minute walk if you choose the gate furthest from your entry point. When you get to the Expo, you will be asked to go through a scanner similar to you would at an airport. You need to remove any drinks from your bags to be checked. Once you are through security, you must present your QR Code ticket. A screenshot of your QR code ticket also suffices. ==Get around== Walking is the primary way to get around. Skateboards, scooters, roller skates, etc. are banned from being brought into the Expo. There is a bus that circles the Expo and stops near various points that requires a reservation in order to use. ==See== During the Expo, adult one-day ticket options include &yen;7500 for an unlimited full day ticket, &yen;6000 weekday tickets valid from 11:00, and &yen;3700 for "night tickets" valid from 17:00 on the ticket, but you can enter from 16:00. Discounted senior, student and group tickets are also available. There are also a Season Pass giving unlimited entry for &yen;30,000 and a Summer Pass allowing entry every day between 19th Jul and 31st Aug for &yen;12,000. Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. The sheer size of the Expo means that it is impossible to cover everything in one day, and access to some of the more popular events and pavilions is capacity controlled with several rather convoluted systems. Allow at least two days if you wish to visit all pavilions of interest. It is wise to choose in advance which of the high-profile sites you want to visit and get them reserved early, then fill in the gaps with the more low-key attractions. Lines tend to shorten as the Expo approaches closing time, although if you cut it too close you run the risk of not getting in at all. * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/private_pavilion/ Full list]. ===Grand Ring=== [[File:Oyane-ring southeast.jpg|thumb|The Grand Ring]] The {{marker|type=see|name=Grand Ring|wikidata=Q133959805}} is a 2 km timber structure and walkway that rises to a height of 20 metres. One of the world's largest wooden structures, it offers views of the entire exhibition area. People can walk freely under the ring, which has benches, vending machines, and a few shops. It also provides respite from summer heat and rain. Some pavilions located along the perimeter, such as Bulgaria and Italy, have their queues under the ring. The top of the ring can be accessed by a handful of escalators scattered around its perimeter or by stairs which can also be used in case of emergency. At the center of the exhibition area within the Grand Ring, [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/official-participant/ over 100 countries] have their own pavilions along with the Signature Pavilions. There are five "commons" buildings, which house multiple countries who don't have their own pavilions. They are scattered throughout the Grand Ring and its sections. The following zones are located within the Grand Ring. They include the pavilion number for easy map-checking as the official maps use the numbers. ====P: Empowering Lives Zone==== [[File:EXPO 2025 America Pavilion.jpg|thumb|USA Pavilion]] * '''Ireland''' (P01) - The building is designed to represent the Irish triskele. Inside there is a scent area where you can smell Irish plants, an exhibit about Lafcadio Hearn who was part Irish, and Irish folk music performances. * '''Malaysia''' (P02) - Begins with colorful cultural displays of foods from each region of the country followed by exhibits about the future. A highlight is the central tree made from traditional handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons A''' (P03) Features exhibits and shops of Barbados, Bolivia, Burundi, Comoros, Eswatini, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritius, North Macedonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Suriname, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Yemen * '''Jordan''' (P04) - Has videos of culture and tourist attractions, musical stones, and 22 tons of sand from [[Wadi Rum]] that visitors can walk on and touch. Although it is one of the small pavilions, the sand and interactive experiences have made it very popular. Waiting times can go past 2 hours. * '''Peru''' (P05) - Video about the history and culture followed by cultural object displays. * '''Advanced Air Mobility''' (p07) - A video about air mobility. Reservation required. * '''Mozambique''' (P08) - Video followed by displays of cultural objects. * '''Philippines''' (P09) - "Woven" is the theme, and the exterior features woven hammocks. Inside, there are weavings, and you can dance around as an AI plant. * '''United States'''(P11) - A star mascot and catchy theme song guide you through scenes from around the country before leading into exhibits about American space innovations. The theme song is in English for the English tours and in Japanese for Japanese tours. Chinese tours are also available twice per day. Has a restaurant. * '''France''' (P12) - An exhibit that alternates Louis Vuitton art installations and authentic Rodin hand sculptures. The odd combination of vapid consumerism and deep cultural heritage somehow manages to feel coherent and impressive. Has a restaurant. * '''Robot and Mobility''' (P14) - Showcases drones, cars, etc. with occasional demonstrations. * '''Vietnam''' (P15) - Small, with clothing, a recreated temple, and other objects and information. At certain times they perform traditional museum with the instruments on display. * '''Qatar''' (P17) - Designed to represent the nation's dhows, the inner exhibits also feature the country's relationship with the sea. * '''United Arab Emirates''' (P18) - Features giant pillars made of date palm trees, information is scattered about the spacious room with 3 rotating videos featured in the back. Has a restaurant. * '''Canada'''(P19) - Walk through ice bergs and other exhibits with a handheld VR tablet that will show various scenes of Canada when you point them at the physical objects. * '''Portugal''' (P20) - Themed around the ocean and the need to take better care of it. * '''Colombia''' (P21) - Butterfly lights on the ceiling guide you through the pavilion to view the actual typewriter used by Gabriel Garcia Martez to write the novel One Hundred Years of Solitude, a circle of objects from the country that you can touch, and an information room. Has a restaurant. * '''Switzerland''' (P22) - You can say your wish for the "future society" into a microphone and create a real bubble that takes your wish upwards * '''Austria''' (P23) - Video of musical history and musical touchscreens. * '''Brazil''' (P26) - Art installation in the main building featuring inflatables, exhibits about the country and paints available for you to paint tribal patterns on your face or hands. * '''Kuwait''' (P27) - Contains a video of a futuristic vision of the country and actual sand brought from the dessert that you can touch and compare to sand you've felt in Japan or elsewhere. * '''China''' (P28) - Animated videos of Chinese culture in a traditional painting-style and replicas of cultural treasures. * '''International Organizations Pavilion''' (P29) - World Expo Museum, ITER project, ASEAN * '''United Nations''' (P30) - History of the UN, how the UN effects people's lives, a video, and a shop. * '''Red Cross and Red Crescent''' (P31) - A video and information about what the organization does. * '''Bahrain''' (P34) - Contains a variety of objects made by craftsman and cultural objects. * '''Turkmenistan''' (P35) - Has a video about the country followed by some cultural objects. The colorful building featuring a white horse is considered to be one of the most eye-catching at the Expo. * '''Nordic''' (Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) (P36) - A glorified lounge; lots of space, not much to see. Has a restaurant. * '''Malta''' (P37) - Features videos of Malta's history and 3 authentic samurai armor suits gifted to Malta by Fukuzawa Yukichi in 1862 that have not been on display since they put in storage for safety during WWII. * '''Czech Republic''' (P38) - Built with materials from the Czech Republic, such as spruce and Bohemian glass. Artwork lines the walls and art using the glass is also featured. ====X: Signature Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-DYNAMIC EQUILIBRIUM OF LIFE-pavilion.jpg|thumb|Dynamic Equilibrium of Life Pavilion]] * '''Better Co-Being''' (X01) - An open-air exhibit of various art installations intended to bring people closer together, the daytime experience feels more in touch with nature while the nighttime experience feels more otherworldy. Reservation required. * '''Future of Life''' (X02) - Gives history of projecting life onto objects ending in robots and AI from where it introduces ideas of a future in which robots and humans live among each other. It follows the mental struggle of an elderly woman who must decide between dying a natural death or placing her memories inside a robot as a gift to her granddaughter so that she can continue to interact with "her" even after she passes. It posing questions about what is life and what does it mean to be human. It ends with robots emerging from peach-like structures, meant to evoke the Momotaro folktale, where you can see their expressions up close as they move and gesture towards you to show that robots are already capable of invoking emotion and response from you to further push visitors to confront discomforts surrounding robots. Reservation required. * '''Jellyfish Pavilion''' (X03) - A fun pavilion to relax in; it's especially pretty at night when it's lit up. * {{see | name=OCHIAI Yoichi's Signature Pavilion "Forging Lives" null² | alt=X04 | url=https://expo2025.digitalnatureandarts.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q134286794 | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content= Has two completely different experiences. The Installation tour is a 10 minute sound and visual art display. The Dialogue tour creates an AI version of you that you can communicate with and it will replicate you. Reservation required. }} * '''Dynamic Equilibrium of Life''' (X05) - The "dynamic equilibrium" is defined as "a system that is in constant change yet is balanced as a whole". This concept is artfully illustrated through a narrated (Japanese and English) light show. Reservation required. * '''Live Earth Journey: Totality of Life''' (X06) - A virtual reality experience. Reservation required. * '''Earth Mart''' (X07) - Attempts to show how we can eat sutainably through projections and a variety of interactive exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Dialogue of Theater''' (X08) - One participant is chosen from the crowd to engage in a dialogue with someone on video from elsewhere in Japan. Each of the 184 days of the Expo, the question that the two people must answer and discuss is different. The idea is to bridge divides by talking and engaging rather than dissociating. Because the participants are randomly chosen, every session's discussion is different and it is unknown to what exent the participants will be "divided" if at all. Reservation required. ====S: Saving Lives Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-HungaryPavilion.jpg|thumb|Hungary Pavilion]] * '''Commons C''' (S01) - Feaures exhibits from Croatia, Gabon, Guatemala, Israel, Montenegro, Panama, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Uruguay. Has a Gabon restaurant. * '''Chile''' (S02) - Mostly empty room with weavings on the ceiling. * '''Tunisia''' (S03) - Makes good use of the small pavilion with projections and the opportunity to have your name written in Arabic, inscribe your name on a plate, or get handmade pottery from the man outside. Has a restaurant. * '''Cambodia''' (S04) - Recreates parts of a stone temple with a replica of Angkor Wat in the center. * '''Algeria''' (S05) - A video with an AI child. * '''Baltic''' (Latvia and Lithuania) (S06) - Medicinal herbs from these countries and art featuring their mascot. Estonia did not participate. * '''European Union''' (S07) - Has a machine-tended zen rock garden and colorful flower and origami exhibits. * '''Belgium''' (S08) Free Biscoff cookie when entering. Focuses on Belgium's importance in medical innovation and technology. * '''Italy and the Holy See''' (S09) - The theme is "Art Regenerates Life". The Italian part features authentic paintings and sculptures from Michaelangelo, pages from the Da Vinci Codex, Olympic Torches. The 16th century painting "Portrait of Ito Mancio" by Domenico Tintoretto commemorates the first diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. The Vatican contributed Caravaggio's painting "The Deposition" (also commonly called "The Entombment of Christ"), which depicts Christ being laid on th Anointing Stone by Nocodemus, John, and holy women. It is considered to be Caravaggio's best work. Although the authentic artwork is the highlight, the pavilion also features videos, Italian craftwork, modern inventions, and a rooftop garden. This is the most popular pavilion at the Expo. Reservations are available but not required. Without a reservation, expect 3+ hour wait on weekdays and 4+ hour wait on weekends. Has a restaurant. * '''Singapore''' (S11) - Focused around dreams, it's an interactive exhibit that allows you to write down your dream and then move into the projection dome where your dream will appear to help build the city. * '''Bulgaria''' (S12) - In Japan, Bulgaria is synonymous with yogurt in the most literal sense; "Bulgaria" is the name of a popular yogurt brand. Bulgaria introduced yogurt to Japan at the 1970 Expo. Because of this association, the pavilion uses yogurt and its bacteria as the base from which to introduce ideas about different cultures working together for the betterment of society like the good yogurt bacteria does in the human body. There is also a video where you can see the wishes of those who previously visited and you can use the QR code in the pavilion to write your own wishes for the next groups to read. English tours at 18:00 each day, arrive a few minutes early and tell the staff (do not get in the queue if you are doing the English tour). * '''Netherlands''' (S13) - Carrying a glowing orb as your guide, you'll learn about the history of the Netherlands' relationship with its waterways, from hardships to modern innovations intended to harness its power. Reservations required after 11:00. * '''Commons D''' (S14) - Features exhibits from Antigua and Barbuda, Cameroon, Cuba, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Honduras, Laos, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Mongolia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Tajikistan, Togo, Burkina Faso, Belize, and Bhutan * '''Oman''' (S15) - Projection mappings and a video. Has a restaurant. * '''Hungary''' (S16) - Local flora and a concert by a folk singer. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons E''' (S17) - Features art exhibits. * '''Poland''' (S20) - Flower projections and art made with traditional Polish goods. * '''Romania''' (S21) A video, live performance, and exhibits of traditional woodwork and handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''United Kingdom''' (S22) - Themed around dreams as "building blocks", follows a block mascot and daughter talking to her father in the UK. Features an interactive game. Has a restaurant. * '''Angola''' (S23) Opened in late June, the pavilion features a video story about a girl with malaria that promotes a future where modern medicine without devaluing traditional medicine. After that, you can listen to different people speak about various topics. Has a restaurant. ====C: Connecting Lives Zone==== [[File:韓国 パビリオン.jpg|thumb|Korea Pavilion]] * '''Nepal''' (C01) (not open as of June 2025) * '''Luxembourg''' (C02) - A video about life in Luxembourg, exhibits about Luxembourg as "the heart of Europe" * '''Germany''' (C03) - Carrying a light-up mascot of the pavilion, it will guide you in the language of your choice (Japanese, English, or German). The pavilion focuses on sustainability and solving modern problems, such as what to do with abandoned city housing. Roll your mascot down a chute to exit the pavilion. * '''Korea''' (C04) - A sound and light show, green energy art displays, and video * '''Commons F''' (C05) - Features exhibits from Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Brunei Darussalam * '''Azerbaijan''' (C07) - Arguably one of the most beautiful from the outside with its white arches and wooden ethnic dancers that spin over water between each arch, inside there is a rather long video followed by a hall of cultural objects from the country. Has a restaurant. * '''Monaco''' (C10) - Consists of 3 separate buildings, the first featuring a video of Monaco's culture, sensory touching, and a tacky VR experience. The others are located along an outside path with small gardens and interactive play spaces. They feature a maritime protection building with an attractive central pillar and projections and another small building with touch panels to learn more about the country. Has a wine bar. * '''Turkey''' (C11) - The main intrigue is the illuminated sun and moon, the sun representing Japan and the moon representing Turkey. The outside Turkish ice cream and Turkish food vendor are more popular than the pavilion itself. * '''Thailand''' (C12) - After a video introduction, the exhibits focus on food. Reservations for Thai massages can be made. Has a restaurant. * '''Spain''' (C13) - Exhibits about the ocean followed by a vibrant orange room with some postcards. * '''Saudi Arabia''' (C14) - Arabian architecture, multiple buildings with different exhibits and a central area where performances and demonstrations are held. Project-mapping is done of the buildings at night. Has a cafe. * '''Australia''' (C15) - Recreates a forest with video representations of local animals appearing in the trees. * '''Indonesia''' (C16) - A Sumatran forest with unique animals scattered about, a thoughtful video, and authentic blades from various ethnic groups * '''India''' (C17) - The pavilion was built to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of Enlightenment. Inside there are videos about Indian innovations along with Indian cultural objects. * '''Uzbekistan''' (C18) - Introduces the culture of the country before taking you to the roof which utilizes the same wood as the Grand Ring in its own unique design. * '''Serbia''' (C19) - "Understanding through play" is the theme, so it features a variety of interactive exhibits. * '''Bangladesh''' (C20) - Various objects around the room with a video in the back. * '''Senegal''' (C21) - Words on the wall about the country and a shop. * '''Egypt''' (C22) - Video projections of famous Egyptian sites. * '''Commons B''' (C23) - Features exhibits from Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Guyana, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Djibouti, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Somalia, Tanzania, Chad, Central African Republic, Tuvalu, Dominica, Nauru, Haiti, Paraguay, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Benin, Micronesia, Mauritania, and Lesotho. ====F: Forest of Tranquility==== [[File:Expo2025静けさの森、中心部の池.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Forest of Tranquility]] An attractive forest with paths for visitors to explore in the center of the inner ring. It consists of trees that were scheduled for thinning from Expo 70 Commemoration Park in [[Suita]] along with trees transplanted from other parks around Osaka Prefecture, including Osaka Castle Park. For passport stamp collectors, the Forest of Tranquility is one of the only venues that does not have a stamp. This is on purpose; frantic stamp collecting is neither relaxing nor tranquil. ===Outside the Grand Ring=== The following are venues located outside the grand ring representing Japan with the Japan Pavilion, Kansai Pavilion, and 12 Japanese megacorps pavilions, along with other non-country pavilions, such as the Women's Pavilion. These are typically highlights of the exposition, with Bandai's GUNDAM Pavilion guaranteed to draw crowds. They are well worth visiting but nearly all require reservations, so temper your expectations. You'll need multiple days with lots of lottery luck if you plan to enter more than just a few. ====E: East Gate Zone==== * '''Kansai''' (E01) Features some of the traditional prefectures that make up Kansai ([[Shiga]], [[Mie]], [[Wakayama (prefecture)|Wakayama]], [[Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]], [[Hyogo]], along with [[Tottori (prefecture)|Tottori]], [[Fukui (prefecture)|Fukui]], and [[Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima]]. Each prefecture has its own exhibition space branching off from the center. There is a [[Nara (prefecture)|Nara]] stamp for collectors however, Nara does not have an exhibition space. Osaka is not featured because the Expo is in Osaka and one hope of the pavilion is to inspire visitors to explore other prefectures. The exhibitions and features change throughout the festival, but the overall experience is similar: **Shiga: A 20 minute video with floating ball art. **Mie: Walk through a tunnel with projection-mappings of prefectural beauty followed by interactive exhibits where you can open doors and turn flaps to see and learn about famous places, objects, products, animals, and nature from the prefecture. **Wakayama: Large taiko drums for performances. **Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]]: Features local lacquerware art and products. **Hyogo: A video of prefectural highlights **Tottori: Using a magnifying glass, as a nod to Detective Conan whose creator is from [[Hokuei]], you first walk on sand from the Tottori Sand Dunes to find and learn about various things from the prefecture followed by a projection-mapping show over the sand. **Fukui: Using digital flashlights, you can find dinosaur fossils and then shine your light on Fukui dinosaurs, such as Fukuititan and Fukuiraptors, as they move around you. **Tokushima: Known for its indigo dyes, visitors can dip a thread into indigo dye and tie it to a traditional drying rack. There are also some cultural objects and a few interaction displays that you can feel and smell. Reservation required. * '''Osaka Healthcare''' (E02) - Has information about Japanese innovations in healthcare, demonstrations of a self-washer (an updated one from that which was featured at the 1970s Expo), and a body scan that creates an AI version of you and tells you where your health will likely take you in 2050. Reservations required, different reservations exist for regular entry versus regular entry plus the 2050 avatar experience. * '''NTT''' (E03) - Starts with a 3-D glasses video of the music group Perfume singing followed by a video show using the bodies of those in the room. Outside there are old-fashioned phones inside phone booths that play various sounds when you dial the numbers. Reservation required (outside phones can be used by anyone). * '''Mitsubishi''' (E05) - A video. Reservation required. * '''Panasonic Group - The Land of Nomo''' (E06) - Walk through with a crystal that you can use to interact with various exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Sumitomo''' (E07) - With the theme "The Unknown Forest", it begins with a video that sets the tone and setting of the forest before visitors are able to explore the unknown forest themselves on a walk with hand-held lanterns. Reservation required. * '''Electric Power - Eggs of Possibilities''' (E08) - Walk through the pavilion holding a glowing egg. There is a light show as well as interactive exhibits, some of which require use of your egg. Reservation required. * '''Women's Pavilion in Collaboration with Cartier''' (E09) - Using an audio guide (English option available), visitors are randomly separated into three groups to follow the story of one of three women before reuniting to read timelines of recent achievements by women, improvements in laws protecting women, and female firsts. Lastly, there is a room with various people (including men) with holes in their chests that you reach into to hear their stories. Reservations possible but not required. * '''Japan''' (E10) - With an attractive architectural design, the building has excellent visual exhibits showcasing Japanese innovations related to sustainability, such as plastic disintegration and algae, including the Hello Kitty algae display that for many became symbols of the Expo alongside the mascot. The pavilion is informative yet also artistic. Non-reservations from 9:00-11:00 and 19:30-21:00, Reservation required during daytime. * '''EXPO Hall "Shining Hat"''' (E11) - Has projection-mapping on the outside at night. * '''EXPO National Day Hall "Ray Garden"''' (E12) - A National Day is held for each country participating in the Expo. This is where they hold those performances. Nearly every day is a "national day". Visitors can check the website to see if their visit day coincides with a National Day that interests them. * '''Gallery EAST''' (E13) - A small showcase of paintings and cultural objects. ====W: West Gate Zone==== * '''Tech World (Taiwan)''' (W02) - Taiwan is not permitted to have a pavilion under its name, so in spite of the name "Tech World", this is Taiwan's pavilion. It features a projection-mapping about its nature and information about its technology with a focus on IC chips. * '''Gas Pavilion Obake Wonderland''' (W03) - "Ghost Wonderland". With a VR headset, you become a ghost and can interact with your surroundings as you navigate the world. Lessons about human waste manifest in the CO2 monster that must be destroyed. Popular with children. Reservation required. * '''Iida Group''' (W04) - Videos and models of their vision of future Smart Homes surrounded by circles (much like the Grand Ring) that contain grocery stores, shopping malls, and other necessities and entertainment for those in the apartments. * '''ORA Gaishoku''' (W05) - A dining facility showcasing Osaka foods. It contains a variety of Japanese cultural objects including an entire float from the Nebuta Festival in [[Aomori]]. * '''Blue Ocean Dome''' (W06) - Follow water droplets through a Pythagorean device also known as a Rube Goldberg machine-style contraption followed by a video. Reservation required. * '''Gundam NEXT Future''' (W07) - Uses videos to make you feel like you're inside a Gundam looking out during a battle. Reservation required. * '''Pasona Natureverse''' (W09) - Utilizes Astro Boy, a former vision of the future, to introduce a "Neo-Astro Boy", with exhibits about life-giving medicine. One of the highlights is a real lab-grown beating heart made from IPS cells. The Astro Boy statue sitting on the building is a popular photo op. * '''Yoshiimoto waraii myraii''' (W10) - Described as a waste of space by adults, children enjoy rolling down the slopes on the outside. * '''EXPO Exhibition Center "WASSE"''' (W11) - A space that is used for events, gatherings, and limited-time exhibitions. ====L: Future Life Zone==== The Future Life Village houses most of the featured sites, so they are more like booths or areas rather than individual pavilions. Most exhibits in this area are scheduled to change monthly, so there isn't a set experience and those who have visited before can have a different experience if they visit in a different month. * '''Gallery West''' (L01) - Has a small indoor display and VR experience and an outdoor space that is used for events throughout the expo. * '''Future Life Experience''' (L02) - Exhibits of how culture, food, and healthcare may look in the future. * '''Team Expo''' (L03) - Focuses on promoting people to take action in their lives on goals set for the future. * '''Mobility Experience''' (L04) - The launching and landing place of the advanced mobility aircraft. * '''Future City''' (L05) - A virtual experience of "The City of Happiness" which is set up much like the expo with a ring around central apartments and restaurants, shops, and a park located on the ring and around the buildings to create a small, self-contained living space with all of one's essentials very close by. * '''Expo Arena "Matsuri"''' (L06) - A large open space with a central stage for concerts and large events. * '''Junior SDG Camp''' (L07) - The actual Junior SDGs Camp is for schools however for stamp collectors, this one is stamped via an 11.5kg concrete weight. * '''Expo Sauna "Taiyo's Tsubomi"''' (L08) - Described as an "experimental sauna ritual", it utilizes heat from the sun to create the sauna's heat. The "ritual" comes from the way you use it. A guide takes visitors through each of the sauna's experiences in the order you're meant to use them. Scents and sounds are used, and the facilities come with instructions, such as a bath where you are to submerge at least up to your ears in order to experience not just the bath but also the sounds that are meant to have soothing effects. Only 100 people can enter per day. ==Do== [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/events/ Numerous events] big and small are held during the Expo. The most easily accessible is the '''One World, One Planet''' show, a synchronized show of sound, lighting and projection mapping across the entire venue, held daily after sunset. ==Buy== [[File:Myaku-Myaku Expo 2025 (best mascot ever).jpg|thumb|Myaku-Myaku]] The '''Expo 2025 Official Store''' has an East Gate and a West Gate shop so whichever is your entrypoint, you will be near a gift shop. You can buy '''Expo passports''' at these shops and they contain the widest variety of goods. Maps of the Expo must also be purchased at information centers near the entrances. The Expo's official mascot is '''Myaku-Myaku''' (ミャクミャク), a bizarre cross between a multi-eyed amoeba and a donut. Gift shops are featured throughout the site, including by the gates, which feature the mascot as many different products. There are also many corporate collaborations featuring the mascot, such as Sanrio characters in a costume of the mascot. Many country pavilions have small gift shops retailing local products, and you can pick up corporate merchandise at most of the company pavilions. ==Eat== Many pavilions will have places to eat featuring their own nation's foods. There are also scattered food trucks, tents, and food courts. The convenience store prices are the same as outside and some of the restaurants, such as ramen restaurants, are comparably reasonable. Most restaurants and international cuisine have highly inflated "Expo prices", so visitors hoping to enjoy foreign foods should expect to pay more. The '''ORA Gaishoku''' in the West Gate Zone (''see above'') is a pavilion that is entirely a dining facility, featuring Osaka cuisine. The area around it also has other restaurants such as a pizzeria and the African restaurant, PANAF. The '''Kura-zushi''' is particularly popular. Conveyer-belt sushi was actually first introduced at Osaka's 1970s Expo, so it was een as fitting to include it upon the Expo's return to the city. The highlight at this Expo is that it features sushi with foods and flavors from over 70 countries, all of which are participating in the Expo. There are 338 seats, making it the largest Kura-zushi restaurant. Reservations are required. A visitor poll actually showed that '''bento's from home''' were the most popular food to eat. When it comes to bringing food and drinks, the food can stay in your bags and be run through the x-rays as normal. Drinks need to be removed from your bags and shown to the security staff at the entrance. If your drink is sealed, you can go through easily. If it is not sealed, they may have you drink some in front of them to prove it is a beverage. They have the authority to confiscate drinks that they deem suspicious, but this is not an issue for most people, and if it does occur, you can purchase drinks at vending machines or convenience stores inside the Expo. ==Drink== There are vending machines throughout the Expo and convenience stores to get drinks to stay hydrated. For alcohol, some country pavilions have their own local beers and wines. Most sit-down restaurants in the pavilion have some alchohol on offer. In addition, there are fun non-alcoholic but exotic drinks not typically available in Japan, such as camel milk at the UAE Pavilion and baobab juice at the African Restaurant, Panaf. ==Sleep== There is no lodging available on site, but it's located in [[Osaka]], which has a wide variety of hotels. Reserve as early as possible. {{guideevent}} {{PartOfTopic|Calendar of events and festivals|Japan}} a4xst5ssv7r0riuzcvzn6m6r4djbjcx 5091049 5091048 2025-07-10T20:28:53Z AlasdairW 1812 change to a cropped banner picture 5091049 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Grand Ring, Expo 2025 banner.jpg}} '''Expo 2025''' (大阪・関西万博 ''Osaka-Kansai Banpaku'') is the site of the [[World's Fair]] for 2025 in [[Osaka]], [[Japan]]. It will run for 6 months from April 13, 2025 until October 13, 2025. ==Understand== [[File:EXPO2025_null2_Appearance.jpg|thumb|null² Pavilion]] Osaka-Kansai 2025 is Japan's third Universal Exposition after Expo '70, also held in Osaka, and [[Expo 2005]] near [[Nagoya]]. The official theme is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". 28 million visitors are projected to attend the exposition, which is spread across 155 hectares on the artificial island of Yumeshima (夢洲, "Dream Island") in the [[Osaka/Bay Area|Bay Area]] district of Osaka. After the Expo is over, Yumeshima will see a different type of dream or nightmare come to life, as Japan's first casino is set to open here in 2030. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/ Event website] ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=14}} {{main|Osaka#Get in}} Visitors to the Expo will generally arrive via Japan's second largest city [[Osaka]], which is a well-connected major travel hub served by [[Kansai International Airport]] ({{IATA|KIX}}) and the JR Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train from [[Tokyo]]. See [[Osaka#Get in]] for the details. Once in Osaka, the Expo site is best accessed via {{marker|type=go|name=Yumeshima Station|wikidata=Q60987816}} (夢洲駅) on the Metro Chuo Line from central Osaka. There are also direct shuttle buses from Kansai and Itami airports as well as major train stations including Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen connections), Osaka and Namba. See [https://www.transport.expo2025.or.jp/en the official transport site] for schedules. When you buy your ticket online, you will need to choose the date, entry time, and gate. You must enter from the gate that you selected. If you are arriving at Yumeshima Station, the East Gate is closest. If you are arriving by car or by bus, the West Gate is closer. There is a walking course between each gate, so you can still enter, but you'll have a 15-20 minute walk if you choose the gate furthest from your entry point. When you get to the Expo, you will be asked to go through a scanner similar to you would at an airport. You need to remove any drinks from your bags to be checked. Once you are through security, you must present your QR Code ticket. A screenshot of your QR code ticket also suffices. ==Get around== Walking is the primary way to get around. Skateboards, scooters, roller skates, etc. are banned from being brought into the Expo. There is a bus that circles the Expo and stops near various points that requires a reservation in order to use. ==See== During the Expo, adult one-day ticket options include &yen;7500 for an unlimited full day ticket, &yen;6000 weekday tickets valid from 11:00, and &yen;3700 for "night tickets" valid from 17:00 on the ticket, but you can enter from 16:00. Discounted senior, student and group tickets are also available. There are also a Season Pass giving unlimited entry for &yen;30,000 and a Summer Pass allowing entry every day between 19th Jul and 31st Aug for &yen;12,000. Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. The sheer size of the Expo means that it is impossible to cover everything in one day, and access to some of the more popular events and pavilions is capacity controlled with several rather convoluted systems. Allow at least two days if you wish to visit all pavilions of interest. It is wise to choose in advance which of the high-profile sites you want to visit and get them reserved early, then fill in the gaps with the more low-key attractions. Lines tend to shorten as the Expo approaches closing time, although if you cut it too close you run the risk of not getting in at all. * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/private_pavilion/ Full list]. ===Grand Ring=== [[File:Oyane-ring southeast.jpg|thumb|The Grand Ring]] The {{marker|type=see|name=Grand Ring|wikidata=Q133959805}} is a 2 km timber structure and walkway that rises to a height of 20 metres. One of the world's largest wooden structures, it offers views of the entire exhibition area. People can walk freely under the ring, which has benches, vending machines, and a few shops. It also provides respite from summer heat and rain. Some pavilions located along the perimeter, such as Bulgaria and Italy, have their queues under the ring. The top of the ring can be accessed by a handful of escalators scattered around its perimeter or by stairs which can also be used in case of emergency. At the center of the exhibition area within the Grand Ring, [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/official-participant/ over 100 countries] have their own pavilions along with the Signature Pavilions. There are five "commons" buildings, which house multiple countries who don't have their own pavilions. They are scattered throughout the Grand Ring and its sections. The following zones are located within the Grand Ring. They include the pavilion number for easy map-checking as the official maps use the numbers. ====P: Empowering Lives Zone==== [[File:EXPO 2025 America Pavilion.jpg|thumb|USA Pavilion]] * '''Ireland''' (P01) - The building is designed to represent the Irish triskele. Inside there is a scent area where you can smell Irish plants, an exhibit about Lafcadio Hearn who was part Irish, and Irish folk music performances. * '''Malaysia''' (P02) - Begins with colorful cultural displays of foods from each region of the country followed by exhibits about the future. A highlight is the central tree made from traditional handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons A''' (P03) Features exhibits and shops of Barbados, Bolivia, Burundi, Comoros, Eswatini, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritius, North Macedonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Suriname, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Yemen * '''Jordan''' (P04) - Has videos of culture and tourist attractions, musical stones, and 22 tons of sand from [[Wadi Rum]] that visitors can walk on and touch. Although it is one of the small pavilions, the sand and interactive experiences have made it very popular. Waiting times can go past 2 hours. * '''Peru''' (P05) - Video about the history and culture followed by cultural object displays. * '''Advanced Air Mobility''' (p07) - A video about air mobility. Reservation required. * '''Mozambique''' (P08) - Video followed by displays of cultural objects. * '''Philippines''' (P09) - "Woven" is the theme, and the exterior features woven hammocks. Inside, there are weavings, and you can dance around as an AI plant. * '''United States'''(P11) - A star mascot and catchy theme song guide you through scenes from around the country before leading into exhibits about American space innovations. The theme song is in English for the English tours and in Japanese for Japanese tours. Chinese tours are also available twice per day. Has a restaurant. * '''France''' (P12) - An exhibit that alternates Louis Vuitton art installations and authentic Rodin hand sculptures. The odd combination of vapid consumerism and deep cultural heritage somehow manages to feel coherent and impressive. Has a restaurant. * '''Robot and Mobility''' (P14) - Showcases drones, cars, etc. with occasional demonstrations. * '''Vietnam''' (P15) - Small, with clothing, a recreated temple, and other objects and information. At certain times they perform traditional museum with the instruments on display. * '''Qatar''' (P17) - Designed to represent the nation's dhows, the inner exhibits also feature the country's relationship with the sea. * '''United Arab Emirates''' (P18) - Features giant pillars made of date palm trees, information is scattered about the spacious room with 3 rotating videos featured in the back. Has a restaurant. * '''Canada'''(P19) - Walk through ice bergs and other exhibits with a handheld VR tablet that will show various scenes of Canada when you point them at the physical objects. * '''Portugal''' (P20) - Themed around the ocean and the need to take better care of it. * '''Colombia''' (P21) - Butterfly lights on the ceiling guide you through the pavilion to view the actual typewriter used by Gabriel Garcia Martez to write the novel One Hundred Years of Solitude, a circle of objects from the country that you can touch, and an information room. Has a restaurant. * '''Switzerland''' (P22) - You can say your wish for the "future society" into a microphone and create a real bubble that takes your wish upwards * '''Austria''' (P23) - Video of musical history and musical touchscreens. * '''Brazil''' (P26) - Art installation in the main building featuring inflatables, exhibits about the country and paints available for you to paint tribal patterns on your face or hands. * '''Kuwait''' (P27) - Contains a video of a futuristic vision of the country and actual sand brought from the dessert that you can touch and compare to sand you've felt in Japan or elsewhere. * '''China''' (P28) - Animated videos of Chinese culture in a traditional painting-style and replicas of cultural treasures. * '''International Organizations Pavilion''' (P29) - World Expo Museum, ITER project, ASEAN * '''United Nations''' (P30) - History of the UN, how the UN effects people's lives, a video, and a shop. * '''Red Cross and Red Crescent''' (P31) - A video and information about what the organization does. * '''Bahrain''' (P34) - Contains a variety of objects made by craftsman and cultural objects. * '''Turkmenistan''' (P35) - Has a video about the country followed by some cultural objects. The colorful building featuring a white horse is considered to be one of the most eye-catching at the Expo. * '''Nordic''' (Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) (P36) - A glorified lounge; lots of space, not much to see. Has a restaurant. * '''Malta''' (P37) - Features videos of Malta's history and 3 authentic samurai armor suits gifted to Malta by Fukuzawa Yukichi in 1862 that have not been on display since they put in storage for safety during WWII. * '''Czech Republic''' (P38) - Built with materials from the Czech Republic, such as spruce and Bohemian glass. Artwork lines the walls and art using the glass is also featured. ====X: Signature Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-DYNAMIC EQUILIBRIUM OF LIFE-pavilion.jpg|thumb|Dynamic Equilibrium of Life Pavilion]] * '''Better Co-Being''' (X01) - An open-air exhibit of various art installations intended to bring people closer together, the daytime experience feels more in touch with nature while the nighttime experience feels more otherworldy. Reservation required. * '''Future of Life''' (X02) - Gives history of projecting life onto objects ending in robots and AI from where it introduces ideas of a future in which robots and humans live among each other. It follows the mental struggle of an elderly woman who must decide between dying a natural death or placing her memories inside a robot as a gift to her granddaughter so that she can continue to interact with "her" even after she passes. It posing questions about what is life and what does it mean to be human. It ends with robots emerging from peach-like structures, meant to evoke the Momotaro folktale, where you can see their expressions up close as they move and gesture towards you to show that robots are already capable of invoking emotion and response from you to further push visitors to confront discomforts surrounding robots. Reservation required. * '''Jellyfish Pavilion''' (X03) - A fun pavilion to relax in; it's especially pretty at night when it's lit up. * {{see | name=OCHIAI Yoichi's Signature Pavilion "Forging Lives" null² | alt=X04 | url=https://expo2025.digitalnatureandarts.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q134286794 | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content= Has two completely different experiences. The Installation tour is a 10 minute sound and visual art display. The Dialogue tour creates an AI version of you that you can communicate with and it will replicate you. Reservation required. }} * '''Dynamic Equilibrium of Life''' (X05) - The "dynamic equilibrium" is defined as "a system that is in constant change yet is balanced as a whole". This concept is artfully illustrated through a narrated (Japanese and English) light show. Reservation required. * '''Live Earth Journey: Totality of Life''' (X06) - A virtual reality experience. Reservation required. * '''Earth Mart''' (X07) - Attempts to show how we can eat sutainably through projections and a variety of interactive exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Dialogue of Theater''' (X08) - One participant is chosen from the crowd to engage in a dialogue with someone on video from elsewhere in Japan. Each of the 184 days of the Expo, the question that the two people must answer and discuss is different. The idea is to bridge divides by talking and engaging rather than dissociating. Because the participants are randomly chosen, every session's discussion is different and it is unknown to what exent the participants will be "divided" if at all. Reservation required. ====S: Saving Lives Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-HungaryPavilion.jpg|thumb|Hungary Pavilion]] * '''Commons C''' (S01) - Feaures exhibits from Croatia, Gabon, Guatemala, Israel, Montenegro, Panama, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Uruguay. Has a Gabon restaurant. * '''Chile''' (S02) - Mostly empty room with weavings on the ceiling. * '''Tunisia''' (S03) - Makes good use of the small pavilion with projections and the opportunity to have your name written in Arabic, inscribe your name on a plate, or get handmade pottery from the man outside. Has a restaurant. * '''Cambodia''' (S04) - Recreates parts of a stone temple with a replica of Angkor Wat in the center. * '''Algeria''' (S05) - A video with an AI child. * '''Baltic''' (Latvia and Lithuania) (S06) - Medicinal herbs from these countries and art featuring their mascot. Estonia did not participate. * '''European Union''' (S07) - Has a machine-tended zen rock garden and colorful flower and origami exhibits. * '''Belgium''' (S08) Free Biscoff cookie when entering. Focuses on Belgium's importance in medical innovation and technology. * '''Italy and the Holy See''' (S09) - The theme is "Art Regenerates Life". The Italian part features authentic paintings and sculptures from Michaelangelo, pages from the Da Vinci Codex, Olympic Torches. The 16th century painting "Portrait of Ito Mancio" by Domenico Tintoretto commemorates the first diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. The Vatican contributed Caravaggio's painting "The Deposition" (also commonly called "The Entombment of Christ"), which depicts Christ being laid on th Anointing Stone by Nocodemus, John, and holy women. It is considered to be Caravaggio's best work. Although the authentic artwork is the highlight, the pavilion also features videos, Italian craftwork, modern inventions, and a rooftop garden. This is the most popular pavilion at the Expo. Reservations are available but not required. Without a reservation, expect 3+ hour wait on weekdays and 4+ hour wait on weekends. Has a restaurant. * '''Singapore''' (S11) - Focused around dreams, it's an interactive exhibit that allows you to write down your dream and then move into the projection dome where your dream will appear to help build the city. * '''Bulgaria''' (S12) - In Japan, Bulgaria is synonymous with yogurt in the most literal sense; "Bulgaria" is the name of a popular yogurt brand. Bulgaria introduced yogurt to Japan at the 1970 Expo. Because of this association, the pavilion uses yogurt and its bacteria as the base from which to introduce ideas about different cultures working together for the betterment of society like the good yogurt bacteria does in the human body. There is also a video where you can see the wishes of those who previously visited and you can use the QR code in the pavilion to write your own wishes for the next groups to read. English tours at 18:00 each day, arrive a few minutes early and tell the staff (do not get in the queue if you are doing the English tour). * '''Netherlands''' (S13) - Carrying a glowing orb as your guide, you'll learn about the history of the Netherlands' relationship with its waterways, from hardships to modern innovations intended to harness its power. Reservations required after 11:00. * '''Commons D''' (S14) - Features exhibits from Antigua and Barbuda, Cameroon, Cuba, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Honduras, Laos, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Mongolia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Tajikistan, Togo, Burkina Faso, Belize, and Bhutan * '''Oman''' (S15) - Projection mappings and a video. Has a restaurant. * '''Hungary''' (S16) - Local flora and a concert by a folk singer. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons E''' (S17) - Features art exhibits. * '''Poland''' (S20) - Flower projections and art made with traditional Polish goods. * '''Romania''' (S21) A video, live performance, and exhibits of traditional woodwork and handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''United Kingdom''' (S22) - Themed around dreams as "building blocks", follows a block mascot and daughter talking to her father in the UK. Features an interactive game. Has a restaurant. * '''Angola''' (S23) Opened in late June, the pavilion features a video story about a girl with malaria that promotes a future where modern medicine without devaluing traditional medicine. After that, you can listen to different people speak about various topics. Has a restaurant. ====C: Connecting Lives Zone==== [[File:韓国 パビリオン.jpg|thumb|Korea Pavilion]] * '''Nepal''' (C01) (not open as of June 2025) * '''Luxembourg''' (C02) - A video about life in Luxembourg, exhibits about Luxembourg as "the heart of Europe" * '''Germany''' (C03) - Carrying a light-up mascot of the pavilion, it will guide you in the language of your choice (Japanese, English, or German). The pavilion focuses on sustainability and solving modern problems, such as what to do with abandoned city housing. Roll your mascot down a chute to exit the pavilion. * '''Korea''' (C04) - A sound and light show, green energy art displays, and video * '''Commons F''' (C05) - Features exhibits from Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Brunei Darussalam * '''Azerbaijan''' (C07) - Arguably one of the most beautiful from the outside with its white arches and wooden ethnic dancers that spin over water between each arch, inside there is a rather long video followed by a hall of cultural objects from the country. Has a restaurant. * '''Monaco''' (C10) - Consists of 3 separate buildings, the first featuring a video of Monaco's culture, sensory touching, and a tacky VR experience. The others are located along an outside path with small gardens and interactive play spaces. They feature a maritime protection building with an attractive central pillar and projections and another small building with touch panels to learn more about the country. Has a wine bar. * '''Turkey''' (C11) - The main intrigue is the illuminated sun and moon, the sun representing Japan and the moon representing Turkey. The outside Turkish ice cream and Turkish food vendor are more popular than the pavilion itself. * '''Thailand''' (C12) - After a video introduction, the exhibits focus on food. Reservations for Thai massages can be made. Has a restaurant. * '''Spain''' (C13) - Exhibits about the ocean followed by a vibrant orange room with some postcards. * '''Saudi Arabia''' (C14) - Arabian architecture, multiple buildings with different exhibits and a central area where performances and demonstrations are held. Project-mapping is done of the buildings at night. Has a cafe. * '''Australia''' (C15) - Recreates a forest with video representations of local animals appearing in the trees. * '''Indonesia''' (C16) - A Sumatran forest with unique animals scattered about, a thoughtful video, and authentic blades from various ethnic groups * '''India''' (C17) - The pavilion was built to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of Enlightenment. Inside there are videos about Indian innovations along with Indian cultural objects. * '''Uzbekistan''' (C18) - Introduces the culture of the country before taking you to the roof which utilizes the same wood as the Grand Ring in its own unique design. * '''Serbia''' (C19) - "Understanding through play" is the theme, so it features a variety of interactive exhibits. * '''Bangladesh''' (C20) - Various objects around the room with a video in the back. * '''Senegal''' (C21) - Words on the wall about the country and a shop. * '''Egypt''' (C22) - Video projections of famous Egyptian sites. * '''Commons B''' (C23) - Features exhibits from Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Guyana, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Djibouti, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Somalia, Tanzania, Chad, Central African Republic, Tuvalu, Dominica, Nauru, Haiti, Paraguay, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Benin, Micronesia, Mauritania, and Lesotho. ====F: Forest of Tranquility==== [[File:Expo2025静けさの森、中心部の池.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Forest of Tranquility]] An attractive forest with paths for visitors to explore in the center of the inner ring. It consists of trees that were scheduled for thinning from Expo 70 Commemoration Park in [[Suita]] along with trees transplanted from other parks around Osaka Prefecture, including Osaka Castle Park. For passport stamp collectors, the Forest of Tranquility is one of the only venues that does not have a stamp. This is on purpose; frantic stamp collecting is neither relaxing nor tranquil. ===Outside the Grand Ring=== The following are venues located outside the grand ring representing Japan with the Japan Pavilion, Kansai Pavilion, and 12 Japanese megacorps pavilions, along with other non-country pavilions, such as the Women's Pavilion. These are typically highlights of the exposition, with Bandai's GUNDAM Pavilion guaranteed to draw crowds. They are well worth visiting but nearly all require reservations, so temper your expectations. You'll need multiple days with lots of lottery luck if you plan to enter more than just a few. ====E: East Gate Zone==== * '''Kansai''' (E01) Features some of the traditional prefectures that make up Kansai ([[Shiga]], [[Mie]], [[Wakayama (prefecture)|Wakayama]], [[Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]], [[Hyogo]], along with [[Tottori (prefecture)|Tottori]], [[Fukui (prefecture)|Fukui]], and [[Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima]]. Each prefecture has its own exhibition space branching off from the center. There is a [[Nara (prefecture)|Nara]] stamp for collectors however, Nara does not have an exhibition space. Osaka is not featured because the Expo is in Osaka and one hope of the pavilion is to inspire visitors to explore other prefectures. The exhibitions and features change throughout the festival, but the overall experience is similar: **Shiga: A 20 minute video with floating ball art. **Mie: Walk through a tunnel with projection-mappings of prefectural beauty followed by interactive exhibits where you can open doors and turn flaps to see and learn about famous places, objects, products, animals, and nature from the prefecture. **Wakayama: Large taiko drums for performances. **Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]]: Features local lacquerware art and products. **Hyogo: A video of prefectural highlights **Tottori: Using a magnifying glass, as a nod to Detective Conan whose creator is from [[Hokuei]], you first walk on sand from the Tottori Sand Dunes to find and learn about various things from the prefecture followed by a projection-mapping show over the sand. **Fukui: Using digital flashlights, you can find dinosaur fossils and then shine your light on Fukui dinosaurs, such as Fukuititan and Fukuiraptors, as they move around you. **Tokushima: Known for its indigo dyes, visitors can dip a thread into indigo dye and tie it to a traditional drying rack. There are also some cultural objects and a few interaction displays that you can feel and smell. Reservation required. * '''Osaka Healthcare''' (E02) - Has information about Japanese innovations in healthcare, demonstrations of a self-washer (an updated one from that which was featured at the 1970s Expo), and a body scan that creates an AI version of you and tells you where your health will likely take you in 2050. Reservations required, different reservations exist for regular entry versus regular entry plus the 2050 avatar experience. * '''NTT''' (E03) - Starts with a 3-D glasses video of the music group Perfume singing followed by a video show using the bodies of those in the room. Outside there are old-fashioned phones inside phone booths that play various sounds when you dial the numbers. Reservation required (outside phones can be used by anyone). * '''Mitsubishi''' (E05) - A video. Reservation required. * '''Panasonic Group - The Land of Nomo''' (E06) - Walk through with a crystal that you can use to interact with various exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Sumitomo''' (E07) - With the theme "The Unknown Forest", it begins with a video that sets the tone and setting of the forest before visitors are able to explore the unknown forest themselves on a walk with hand-held lanterns. Reservation required. * '''Electric Power - Eggs of Possibilities''' (E08) - Walk through the pavilion holding a glowing egg. There is a light show as well as interactive exhibits, some of which require use of your egg. Reservation required. * '''Women's Pavilion in Collaboration with Cartier''' (E09) - Using an audio guide (English option available), visitors are randomly separated into three groups to follow the story of one of three women before reuniting to read timelines of recent achievements by women, improvements in laws protecting women, and female firsts. Lastly, there is a room with various people (including men) with holes in their chests that you reach into to hear their stories. Reservations possible but not required. * '''Japan''' (E10) - With an attractive architectural design, the building has excellent visual exhibits showcasing Japanese innovations related to sustainability, such as plastic disintegration and algae, including the Hello Kitty algae display that for many became symbols of the Expo alongside the mascot. The pavilion is informative yet also artistic. Non-reservations from 9:00-11:00 and 19:30-21:00, Reservation required during daytime. * '''EXPO Hall "Shining Hat"''' (E11) - Has projection-mapping on the outside at night. * '''EXPO National Day Hall "Ray Garden"''' (E12) - A National Day is held for each country participating in the Expo. This is where they hold those performances. Nearly every day is a "national day". Visitors can check the website to see if their visit day coincides with a National Day that interests them. * '''Gallery EAST''' (E13) - A small showcase of paintings and cultural objects. ====W: West Gate Zone==== * '''Tech World (Taiwan)''' (W02) - Taiwan is not permitted to have a pavilion under its name, so in spite of the name "Tech World", this is Taiwan's pavilion. It features a projection-mapping about its nature and information about its technology with a focus on IC chips. * '''Gas Pavilion Obake Wonderland''' (W03) - "Ghost Wonderland". With a VR headset, you become a ghost and can interact with your surroundings as you navigate the world. Lessons about human waste manifest in the CO2 monster that must be destroyed. Popular with children. Reservation required. * '''Iida Group''' (W04) - Videos and models of their vision of future Smart Homes surrounded by circles (much like the Grand Ring) that contain grocery stores, shopping malls, and other necessities and entertainment for those in the apartments. * '''ORA Gaishoku''' (W05) - A dining facility showcasing Osaka foods. It contains a variety of Japanese cultural objects including an entire float from the Nebuta Festival in [[Aomori]]. * '''Blue Ocean Dome''' (W06) - Follow water droplets through a Pythagorean device also known as a Rube Goldberg machine-style contraption followed by a video. Reservation required. * '''Gundam NEXT Future''' (W07) - Uses videos to make you feel like you're inside a Gundam looking out during a battle. Reservation required. * '''Pasona Natureverse''' (W09) - Utilizes Astro Boy, a former vision of the future, to introduce a "Neo-Astro Boy", with exhibits about life-giving medicine. One of the highlights is a real lab-grown beating heart made from IPS cells. The Astro Boy statue sitting on the building is a popular photo op. * '''Yoshiimoto waraii myraii''' (W10) - Described as a waste of space by adults, children enjoy rolling down the slopes on the outside. * '''EXPO Exhibition Center "WASSE"''' (W11) - A space that is used for events, gatherings, and limited-time exhibitions. ====L: Future Life Zone==== The Future Life Village houses most of the featured sites, so they are more like booths or areas rather than individual pavilions. Most exhibits in this area are scheduled to change monthly, so there isn't a set experience and those who have visited before can have a different experience if they visit in a different month. * '''Gallery West''' (L01) - Has a small indoor display and VR experience and an outdoor space that is used for events throughout the expo. * '''Future Life Experience''' (L02) - Exhibits of how culture, food, and healthcare may look in the future. * '''Team Expo''' (L03) - Focuses on promoting people to take action in their lives on goals set for the future. * '''Mobility Experience''' (L04) - The launching and landing place of the advanced mobility aircraft. * '''Future City''' (L05) - A virtual experience of "The City of Happiness" which is set up much like the expo with a ring around central apartments and restaurants, shops, and a park located on the ring and around the buildings to create a small, self-contained living space with all of one's essentials very close by. * '''Expo Arena "Matsuri"''' (L06) - A large open space with a central stage for concerts and large events. * '''Junior SDG Camp''' (L07) - The actual Junior SDGs Camp is for schools however for stamp collectors, this one is stamped via an 11.5kg concrete weight. * '''Expo Sauna "Taiyo's Tsubomi"''' (L08) - Described as an "experimental sauna ritual", it utilizes heat from the sun to create the sauna's heat. The "ritual" comes from the way you use it. A guide takes visitors through each of the sauna's experiences in the order you're meant to use them. Scents and sounds are used, and the facilities come with instructions, such as a bath where you are to submerge at least up to your ears in order to experience not just the bath but also the sounds that are meant to have soothing effects. Only 100 people can enter per day. ==Do== [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/events/ Numerous events] big and small are held during the Expo. The most easily accessible is the '''One World, One Planet''' show, a synchronized show of sound, lighting and projection mapping across the entire venue, held daily after sunset. ==Buy== [[File:Myaku-Myaku Expo 2025 (best mascot ever).jpg|thumb|Myaku-Myaku]] The '''Expo 2025 Official Store''' has an East Gate and a West Gate shop so whichever is your entrypoint, you will be near a gift shop. You can buy '''Expo passports''' at these shops and they contain the widest variety of goods. Maps of the Expo must also be purchased at information centers near the entrances. The Expo's official mascot is '''Myaku-Myaku''' (ミャクミャク), a bizarre cross between a multi-eyed amoeba and a donut. Gift shops are featured throughout the site, including by the gates, which feature the mascot as many different products. There are also many corporate collaborations featuring the mascot, such as Sanrio characters in a costume of the mascot. Many country pavilions have small gift shops retailing local products, and you can pick up corporate merchandise at most of the company pavilions. ==Eat== Many pavilions will have places to eat featuring their own nation's foods. There are also scattered food trucks, tents, and food courts. The convenience store prices are the same as outside and some of the restaurants, such as ramen restaurants, are comparably reasonable. Most restaurants and international cuisine have highly inflated "Expo prices", so visitors hoping to enjoy foreign foods should expect to pay more. The '''ORA Gaishoku''' in the West Gate Zone (''see above'') is a pavilion that is entirely a dining facility, featuring Osaka cuisine. The area around it also has other restaurants such as a pizzeria and the African restaurant, PANAF. The '''Kura-zushi''' is particularly popular. Conveyer-belt sushi was actually first introduced at Osaka's 1970s Expo, so it was een as fitting to include it upon the Expo's return to the city. The highlight at this Expo is that it features sushi with foods and flavors from over 70 countries, all of which are participating in the Expo. There are 338 seats, making it the largest Kura-zushi restaurant. Reservations are required. A visitor poll actually showed that '''bento's from home''' were the most popular food to eat. When it comes to bringing food and drinks, the food can stay in your bags and be run through the x-rays as normal. Drinks need to be removed from your bags and shown to the security staff at the entrance. If your drink is sealed, you can go through easily. If it is not sealed, they may have you drink some in front of them to prove it is a beverage. They have the authority to confiscate drinks that they deem suspicious, but this is not an issue for most people, and if it does occur, you can purchase drinks at vending machines or convenience stores inside the Expo. ==Drink== There are vending machines throughout the Expo and convenience stores to get drinks to stay hydrated. For alcohol, some country pavilions have their own local beers and wines. Most sit-down restaurants in the pavilion have some alchohol on offer. In addition, there are fun non-alcoholic but exotic drinks not typically available in Japan, such as camel milk at the UAE Pavilion and baobab juice at the African Restaurant, Panaf. ==Sleep== There is no lodging available on site, but it's located in [[Osaka]], which has a wide variety of hotels. Reserve as early as possible. {{guideevent}} {{PartOfTopic|Calendar of events and festivals|Japan}} cn9s8y0ytosdjibewqri3mb03fjrshu 5091052 5091049 2025-07-10T20:43:49Z AlasdairW 1812 /* Buy */ no cash please 5091052 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Grand Ring, Expo 2025 banner.jpg}} '''Expo 2025''' (大阪・関西万博 ''Osaka-Kansai Banpaku'') is the site of the [[World's Fair]] for 2025 in [[Osaka]], [[Japan]]. It will run for 6 months from April 13, 2025 until October 13, 2025. ==Understand== [[File:EXPO2025_null2_Appearance.jpg|thumb|null² Pavilion]] Osaka-Kansai 2025 is Japan's third Universal Exposition after Expo '70, also held in Osaka, and [[Expo 2005]] near [[Nagoya]]. The official theme is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". 28 million visitors are projected to attend the exposition, which is spread across 155 hectares on the artificial island of Yumeshima (夢洲, "Dream Island") in the [[Osaka/Bay Area|Bay Area]] district of Osaka. After the Expo is over, Yumeshima will see a different type of dream or nightmare come to life, as Japan's first casino is set to open here in 2030. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/ Event website] ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=14}} {{main|Osaka#Get in}} Visitors to the Expo will generally arrive via Japan's second largest city [[Osaka]], which is a well-connected major travel hub served by [[Kansai International Airport]] ({{IATA|KIX}}) and the JR Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train from [[Tokyo]]. See [[Osaka#Get in]] for the details. Once in Osaka, the Expo site is best accessed via {{marker|type=go|name=Yumeshima Station|wikidata=Q60987816}} (夢洲駅) on the Metro Chuo Line from central Osaka. There are also direct shuttle buses from Kansai and Itami airports as well as major train stations including Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen connections), Osaka and Namba. See [https://www.transport.expo2025.or.jp/en the official transport site] for schedules. When you buy your ticket online, you will need to choose the date, entry time, and gate. You must enter from the gate that you selected. If you are arriving at Yumeshima Station, the East Gate is closest. If you are arriving by car or by bus, the West Gate is closer. There is a walking course between each gate, so you can still enter, but you'll have a 15-20 minute walk if you choose the gate furthest from your entry point. When you get to the Expo, you will be asked to go through a scanner similar to you would at an airport. You need to remove any drinks from your bags to be checked. Once you are through security, you must present your QR Code ticket. A screenshot of your QR code ticket also suffices. ==Get around== Walking is the primary way to get around. Skateboards, scooters, roller skates, etc. are banned from being brought into the Expo. There is a bus that circles the Expo and stops near various points that requires a reservation in order to use. ==See== During the Expo, adult one-day ticket options include &yen;7500 for an unlimited full day ticket, &yen;6000 weekday tickets valid from 11:00, and &yen;3700 for "night tickets" valid from 17:00 on the ticket, but you can enter from 16:00. Discounted senior, student and group tickets are also available. There are also a Season Pass giving unlimited entry for &yen;30,000 and a Summer Pass allowing entry every day between 19th Jul and 31st Aug for &yen;12,000. Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. The sheer size of the Expo means that it is impossible to cover everything in one day, and access to some of the more popular events and pavilions is capacity controlled with several rather convoluted systems. Allow at least two days if you wish to visit all pavilions of interest. It is wise to choose in advance which of the high-profile sites you want to visit and get them reserved early, then fill in the gaps with the more low-key attractions. Lines tend to shorten as the Expo approaches closing time, although if you cut it too close you run the risk of not getting in at all. * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/private_pavilion/ Full list]. ===Grand Ring=== [[File:Oyane-ring southeast.jpg|thumb|The Grand Ring]] The {{marker|type=see|name=Grand Ring|wikidata=Q133959805}} is a 2 km timber structure and walkway that rises to a height of 20 metres. One of the world's largest wooden structures, it offers views of the entire exhibition area. People can walk freely under the ring, which has benches, vending machines, and a few shops. It also provides respite from summer heat and rain. Some pavilions located along the perimeter, such as Bulgaria and Italy, have their queues under the ring. The top of the ring can be accessed by a handful of escalators scattered around its perimeter or by stairs which can also be used in case of emergency. At the center of the exhibition area within the Grand Ring, [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/official-participant/ over 100 countries] have their own pavilions along with the Signature Pavilions. There are five "commons" buildings, which house multiple countries who don't have their own pavilions. They are scattered throughout the Grand Ring and its sections. The following zones are located within the Grand Ring. They include the pavilion number for easy map-checking as the official maps use the numbers. ====P: Empowering Lives Zone==== [[File:EXPO 2025 America Pavilion.jpg|thumb|USA Pavilion]] * '''Ireland''' (P01) - The building is designed to represent the Irish triskele. Inside there is a scent area where you can smell Irish plants, an exhibit about Lafcadio Hearn who was part Irish, and Irish folk music performances. * '''Malaysia''' (P02) - Begins with colorful cultural displays of foods from each region of the country followed by exhibits about the future. A highlight is the central tree made from traditional handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons A''' (P03) Features exhibits and shops of Barbados, Bolivia, Burundi, Comoros, Eswatini, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritius, North Macedonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Suriname, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Yemen * '''Jordan''' (P04) - Has videos of culture and tourist attractions, musical stones, and 22 tons of sand from [[Wadi Rum]] that visitors can walk on and touch. Although it is one of the small pavilions, the sand and interactive experiences have made it very popular. Waiting times can go past 2 hours. * '''Peru''' (P05) - Video about the history and culture followed by cultural object displays. * '''Advanced Air Mobility''' (p07) - A video about air mobility. Reservation required. * '''Mozambique''' (P08) - Video followed by displays of cultural objects. * '''Philippines''' (P09) - "Woven" is the theme, and the exterior features woven hammocks. Inside, there are weavings, and you can dance around as an AI plant. * '''United States'''(P11) - A star mascot and catchy theme song guide you through scenes from around the country before leading into exhibits about American space innovations. The theme song is in English for the English tours and in Japanese for Japanese tours. Chinese tours are also available twice per day. Has a restaurant. * '''France''' (P12) - An exhibit that alternates Louis Vuitton art installations and authentic Rodin hand sculptures. The odd combination of vapid consumerism and deep cultural heritage somehow manages to feel coherent and impressive. Has a restaurant. * '''Robot and Mobility''' (P14) - Showcases drones, cars, etc. with occasional demonstrations. * '''Vietnam''' (P15) - Small, with clothing, a recreated temple, and other objects and information. At certain times they perform traditional museum with the instruments on display. * '''Qatar''' (P17) - Designed to represent the nation's dhows, the inner exhibits also feature the country's relationship with the sea. * '''United Arab Emirates''' (P18) - Features giant pillars made of date palm trees, information is scattered about the spacious room with 3 rotating videos featured in the back. Has a restaurant. * '''Canada'''(P19) - Walk through ice bergs and other exhibits with a handheld VR tablet that will show various scenes of Canada when you point them at the physical objects. * '''Portugal''' (P20) - Themed around the ocean and the need to take better care of it. * '''Colombia''' (P21) - Butterfly lights on the ceiling guide you through the pavilion to view the actual typewriter used by Gabriel Garcia Martez to write the novel One Hundred Years of Solitude, a circle of objects from the country that you can touch, and an information room. Has a restaurant. * '''Switzerland''' (P22) - You can say your wish for the "future society" into a microphone and create a real bubble that takes your wish upwards * '''Austria''' (P23) - Video of musical history and musical touchscreens. * '''Brazil''' (P26) - Art installation in the main building featuring inflatables, exhibits about the country and paints available for you to paint tribal patterns on your face or hands. * '''Kuwait''' (P27) - Contains a video of a futuristic vision of the country and actual sand brought from the dessert that you can touch and compare to sand you've felt in Japan or elsewhere. * '''China''' (P28) - Animated videos of Chinese culture in a traditional painting-style and replicas of cultural treasures. * '''International Organizations Pavilion''' (P29) - World Expo Museum, ITER project, ASEAN * '''United Nations''' (P30) - History of the UN, how the UN effects people's lives, a video, and a shop. * '''Red Cross and Red Crescent''' (P31) - A video and information about what the organization does. * '''Bahrain''' (P34) - Contains a variety of objects made by craftsman and cultural objects. * '''Turkmenistan''' (P35) - Has a video about the country followed by some cultural objects. The colorful building featuring a white horse is considered to be one of the most eye-catching at the Expo. * '''Nordic''' (Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) (P36) - A glorified lounge; lots of space, not much to see. Has a restaurant. * '''Malta''' (P37) - Features videos of Malta's history and 3 authentic samurai armor suits gifted to Malta by Fukuzawa Yukichi in 1862 that have not been on display since they put in storage for safety during WWII. * '''Czech Republic''' (P38) - Built with materials from the Czech Republic, such as spruce and Bohemian glass. Artwork lines the walls and art using the glass is also featured. ====X: Signature Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-DYNAMIC EQUILIBRIUM OF LIFE-pavilion.jpg|thumb|Dynamic Equilibrium of Life Pavilion]] * '''Better Co-Being''' (X01) - An open-air exhibit of various art installations intended to bring people closer together, the daytime experience feels more in touch with nature while the nighttime experience feels more otherworldy. Reservation required. * '''Future of Life''' (X02) - Gives history of projecting life onto objects ending in robots and AI from where it introduces ideas of a future in which robots and humans live among each other. It follows the mental struggle of an elderly woman who must decide between dying a natural death or placing her memories inside a robot as a gift to her granddaughter so that she can continue to interact with "her" even after she passes. It posing questions about what is life and what does it mean to be human. It ends with robots emerging from peach-like structures, meant to evoke the Momotaro folktale, where you can see their expressions up close as they move and gesture towards you to show that robots are already capable of invoking emotion and response from you to further push visitors to confront discomforts surrounding robots. Reservation required. * '''Jellyfish Pavilion''' (X03) - A fun pavilion to relax in; it's especially pretty at night when it's lit up. * {{see | name=OCHIAI Yoichi's Signature Pavilion "Forging Lives" null² | alt=X04 | url=https://expo2025.digitalnatureandarts.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q134286794 | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content= Has two completely different experiences. The Installation tour is a 10 minute sound and visual art display. The Dialogue tour creates an AI version of you that you can communicate with and it will replicate you. Reservation required. }} * '''Dynamic Equilibrium of Life''' (X05) - The "dynamic equilibrium" is defined as "a system that is in constant change yet is balanced as a whole". This concept is artfully illustrated through a narrated (Japanese and English) light show. Reservation required. * '''Live Earth Journey: Totality of Life''' (X06) - A virtual reality experience. Reservation required. * '''Earth Mart''' (X07) - Attempts to show how we can eat sutainably through projections and a variety of interactive exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Dialogue of Theater''' (X08) - One participant is chosen from the crowd to engage in a dialogue with someone on video from elsewhere in Japan. Each of the 184 days of the Expo, the question that the two people must answer and discuss is different. The idea is to bridge divides by talking and engaging rather than dissociating. Because the participants are randomly chosen, every session's discussion is different and it is unknown to what exent the participants will be "divided" if at all. Reservation required. ====S: Saving Lives Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-HungaryPavilion.jpg|thumb|Hungary Pavilion]] * '''Commons C''' (S01) - Feaures exhibits from Croatia, Gabon, Guatemala, Israel, Montenegro, Panama, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Uruguay. Has a Gabon restaurant. * '''Chile''' (S02) - Mostly empty room with weavings on the ceiling. * '''Tunisia''' (S03) - Makes good use of the small pavilion with projections and the opportunity to have your name written in Arabic, inscribe your name on a plate, or get handmade pottery from the man outside. Has a restaurant. * '''Cambodia''' (S04) - Recreates parts of a stone temple with a replica of Angkor Wat in the center. * '''Algeria''' (S05) - A video with an AI child. * '''Baltic''' (Latvia and Lithuania) (S06) - Medicinal herbs from these countries and art featuring their mascot. Estonia did not participate. * '''European Union''' (S07) - Has a machine-tended zen rock garden and colorful flower and origami exhibits. * '''Belgium''' (S08) Free Biscoff cookie when entering. Focuses on Belgium's importance in medical innovation and technology. * '''Italy and the Holy See''' (S09) - The theme is "Art Regenerates Life". The Italian part features authentic paintings and sculptures from Michaelangelo, pages from the Da Vinci Codex, Olympic Torches. The 16th century painting "Portrait of Ito Mancio" by Domenico Tintoretto commemorates the first diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. The Vatican contributed Caravaggio's painting "The Deposition" (also commonly called "The Entombment of Christ"), which depicts Christ being laid on th Anointing Stone by Nocodemus, John, and holy women. It is considered to be Caravaggio's best work. Although the authentic artwork is the highlight, the pavilion also features videos, Italian craftwork, modern inventions, and a rooftop garden. This is the most popular pavilion at the Expo. Reservations are available but not required. Without a reservation, expect 3+ hour wait on weekdays and 4+ hour wait on weekends. Has a restaurant. * '''Singapore''' (S11) - Focused around dreams, it's an interactive exhibit that allows you to write down your dream and then move into the projection dome where your dream will appear to help build the city. * '''Bulgaria''' (S12) - In Japan, Bulgaria is synonymous with yogurt in the most literal sense; "Bulgaria" is the name of a popular yogurt brand. Bulgaria introduced yogurt to Japan at the 1970 Expo. Because of this association, the pavilion uses yogurt and its bacteria as the base from which to introduce ideas about different cultures working together for the betterment of society like the good yogurt bacteria does in the human body. There is also a video where you can see the wishes of those who previously visited and you can use the QR code in the pavilion to write your own wishes for the next groups to read. English tours at 18:00 each day, arrive a few minutes early and tell the staff (do not get in the queue if you are doing the English tour). * '''Netherlands''' (S13) - Carrying a glowing orb as your guide, you'll learn about the history of the Netherlands' relationship with its waterways, from hardships to modern innovations intended to harness its power. Reservations required after 11:00. * '''Commons D''' (S14) - Features exhibits from Antigua and Barbuda, Cameroon, Cuba, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Honduras, Laos, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Mongolia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Tajikistan, Togo, Burkina Faso, Belize, and Bhutan * '''Oman''' (S15) - Projection mappings and a video. Has a restaurant. * '''Hungary''' (S16) - Local flora and a concert by a folk singer. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons E''' (S17) - Features art exhibits. * '''Poland''' (S20) - Flower projections and art made with traditional Polish goods. * '''Romania''' (S21) A video, live performance, and exhibits of traditional woodwork and handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''United Kingdom''' (S22) - Themed around dreams as "building blocks", follows a block mascot and daughter talking to her father in the UK. Features an interactive game. Has a restaurant. * '''Angola''' (S23) Opened in late June, the pavilion features a video story about a girl with malaria that promotes a future where modern medicine without devaluing traditional medicine. After that, you can listen to different people speak about various topics. Has a restaurant. ====C: Connecting Lives Zone==== [[File:韓国 パビリオン.jpg|thumb|Korea Pavilion]] * '''Nepal''' (C01) (not open as of June 2025) * '''Luxembourg''' (C02) - A video about life in Luxembourg, exhibits about Luxembourg as "the heart of Europe" * '''Germany''' (C03) - Carrying a light-up mascot of the pavilion, it will guide you in the language of your choice (Japanese, English, or German). The pavilion focuses on sustainability and solving modern problems, such as what to do with abandoned city housing. Roll your mascot down a chute to exit the pavilion. * '''Korea''' (C04) - A sound and light show, green energy art displays, and video * '''Commons F''' (C05) - Features exhibits from Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Brunei Darussalam * '''Azerbaijan''' (C07) - Arguably one of the most beautiful from the outside with its white arches and wooden ethnic dancers that spin over water between each arch, inside there is a rather long video followed by a hall of cultural objects from the country. Has a restaurant. * '''Monaco''' (C10) - Consists of 3 separate buildings, the first featuring a video of Monaco's culture, sensory touching, and a tacky VR experience. The others are located along an outside path with small gardens and interactive play spaces. They feature a maritime protection building with an attractive central pillar and projections and another small building with touch panels to learn more about the country. Has a wine bar. * '''Turkey''' (C11) - The main intrigue is the illuminated sun and moon, the sun representing Japan and the moon representing Turkey. The outside Turkish ice cream and Turkish food vendor are more popular than the pavilion itself. * '''Thailand''' (C12) - After a video introduction, the exhibits focus on food. Reservations for Thai massages can be made. Has a restaurant. * '''Spain''' (C13) - Exhibits about the ocean followed by a vibrant orange room with some postcards. * '''Saudi Arabia''' (C14) - Arabian architecture, multiple buildings with different exhibits and a central area where performances and demonstrations are held. Project-mapping is done of the buildings at night. Has a cafe. * '''Australia''' (C15) - Recreates a forest with video representations of local animals appearing in the trees. * '''Indonesia''' (C16) - A Sumatran forest with unique animals scattered about, a thoughtful video, and authentic blades from various ethnic groups * '''India''' (C17) - The pavilion was built to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of Enlightenment. Inside there are videos about Indian innovations along with Indian cultural objects. * '''Uzbekistan''' (C18) - Introduces the culture of the country before taking you to the roof which utilizes the same wood as the Grand Ring in its own unique design. * '''Serbia''' (C19) - "Understanding through play" is the theme, so it features a variety of interactive exhibits. * '''Bangladesh''' (C20) - Various objects around the room with a video in the back. * '''Senegal''' (C21) - Words on the wall about the country and a shop. * '''Egypt''' (C22) - Video projections of famous Egyptian sites. * '''Commons B''' (C23) - Features exhibits from Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Guyana, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Djibouti, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Somalia, Tanzania, Chad, Central African Republic, Tuvalu, Dominica, Nauru, Haiti, Paraguay, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Benin, Micronesia, Mauritania, and Lesotho. ====F: Forest of Tranquility==== [[File:Expo2025静けさの森、中心部の池.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Forest of Tranquility]] An attractive forest with paths for visitors to explore in the center of the inner ring. It consists of trees that were scheduled for thinning from Expo 70 Commemoration Park in [[Suita]] along with trees transplanted from other parks around Osaka Prefecture, including Osaka Castle Park. For passport stamp collectors, the Forest of Tranquility is one of the only venues that does not have a stamp. This is on purpose; frantic stamp collecting is neither relaxing nor tranquil. ===Outside the Grand Ring=== The following are venues located outside the grand ring representing Japan with the Japan Pavilion, Kansai Pavilion, and 12 Japanese megacorps pavilions, along with other non-country pavilions, such as the Women's Pavilion. These are typically highlights of the exposition, with Bandai's GUNDAM Pavilion guaranteed to draw crowds. They are well worth visiting but nearly all require reservations, so temper your expectations. You'll need multiple days with lots of lottery luck if you plan to enter more than just a few. ====E: East Gate Zone==== * '''Kansai''' (E01) Features some of the traditional prefectures that make up Kansai ([[Shiga]], [[Mie]], [[Wakayama (prefecture)|Wakayama]], [[Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]], [[Hyogo]], along with [[Tottori (prefecture)|Tottori]], [[Fukui (prefecture)|Fukui]], and [[Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima]]. Each prefecture has its own exhibition space branching off from the center. There is a [[Nara (prefecture)|Nara]] stamp for collectors however, Nara does not have an exhibition space. Osaka is not featured because the Expo is in Osaka and one hope of the pavilion is to inspire visitors to explore other prefectures. The exhibitions and features change throughout the festival, but the overall experience is similar: **Shiga: A 20 minute video with floating ball art. **Mie: Walk through a tunnel with projection-mappings of prefectural beauty followed by interactive exhibits where you can open doors and turn flaps to see and learn about famous places, objects, products, animals, and nature from the prefecture. **Wakayama: Large taiko drums for performances. **Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]]: Features local lacquerware art and products. **Hyogo: A video of prefectural highlights **Tottori: Using a magnifying glass, as a nod to Detective Conan whose creator is from [[Hokuei]], you first walk on sand from the Tottori Sand Dunes to find and learn about various things from the prefecture followed by a projection-mapping show over the sand. **Fukui: Using digital flashlights, you can find dinosaur fossils and then shine your light on Fukui dinosaurs, such as Fukuititan and Fukuiraptors, as they move around you. **Tokushima: Known for its indigo dyes, visitors can dip a thread into indigo dye and tie it to a traditional drying rack. There are also some cultural objects and a few interaction displays that you can feel and smell. Reservation required. * '''Osaka Healthcare''' (E02) - Has information about Japanese innovations in healthcare, demonstrations of a self-washer (an updated one from that which was featured at the 1970s Expo), and a body scan that creates an AI version of you and tells you where your health will likely take you in 2050. Reservations required, different reservations exist for regular entry versus regular entry plus the 2050 avatar experience. * '''NTT''' (E03) - Starts with a 3-D glasses video of the music group Perfume singing followed by a video show using the bodies of those in the room. Outside there are old-fashioned phones inside phone booths that play various sounds when you dial the numbers. Reservation required (outside phones can be used by anyone). * '''Mitsubishi''' (E05) - A video. Reservation required. * '''Panasonic Group - The Land of Nomo''' (E06) - Walk through with a crystal that you can use to interact with various exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Sumitomo''' (E07) - With the theme "The Unknown Forest", it begins with a video that sets the tone and setting of the forest before visitors are able to explore the unknown forest themselves on a walk with hand-held lanterns. Reservation required. * '''Electric Power - Eggs of Possibilities''' (E08) - Walk through the pavilion holding a glowing egg. There is a light show as well as interactive exhibits, some of which require use of your egg. Reservation required. * '''Women's Pavilion in Collaboration with Cartier''' (E09) - Using an audio guide (English option available), visitors are randomly separated into three groups to follow the story of one of three women before reuniting to read timelines of recent achievements by women, improvements in laws protecting women, and female firsts. Lastly, there is a room with various people (including men) with holes in their chests that you reach into to hear their stories. Reservations possible but not required. * '''Japan''' (E10) - With an attractive architectural design, the building has excellent visual exhibits showcasing Japanese innovations related to sustainability, such as plastic disintegration and algae, including the Hello Kitty algae display that for many became symbols of the Expo alongside the mascot. The pavilion is informative yet also artistic. Non-reservations from 9:00-11:00 and 19:30-21:00, Reservation required during daytime. * '''EXPO Hall "Shining Hat"''' (E11) - Has projection-mapping on the outside at night. * '''EXPO National Day Hall "Ray Garden"''' (E12) - A National Day is held for each country participating in the Expo. This is where they hold those performances. Nearly every day is a "national day". Visitors can check the website to see if their visit day coincides with a National Day that interests them. * '''Gallery EAST''' (E13) - A small showcase of paintings and cultural objects. ====W: West Gate Zone==== * '''Tech World (Taiwan)''' (W02) - Taiwan is not permitted to have a pavilion under its name, so in spite of the name "Tech World", this is Taiwan's pavilion. It features a projection-mapping about its nature and information about its technology with a focus on IC chips. * '''Gas Pavilion Obake Wonderland''' (W03) - "Ghost Wonderland". With a VR headset, you become a ghost and can interact with your surroundings as you navigate the world. Lessons about human waste manifest in the CO2 monster that must be destroyed. Popular with children. Reservation required. * '''Iida Group''' (W04) - Videos and models of their vision of future Smart Homes surrounded by circles (much like the Grand Ring) that contain grocery stores, shopping malls, and other necessities and entertainment for those in the apartments. * '''ORA Gaishoku''' (W05) - A dining facility showcasing Osaka foods. It contains a variety of Japanese cultural objects including an entire float from the Nebuta Festival in [[Aomori]]. * '''Blue Ocean Dome''' (W06) - Follow water droplets through a Pythagorean device also known as a Rube Goldberg machine-style contraption followed by a video. Reservation required. * '''Gundam NEXT Future''' (W07) - Uses videos to make you feel like you're inside a Gundam looking out during a battle. Reservation required. * '''Pasona Natureverse''' (W09) - Utilizes Astro Boy, a former vision of the future, to introduce a "Neo-Astro Boy", with exhibits about life-giving medicine. One of the highlights is a real lab-grown beating heart made from IPS cells. The Astro Boy statue sitting on the building is a popular photo op. * '''Yoshiimoto waraii myraii''' (W10) - Described as a waste of space by adults, children enjoy rolling down the slopes on the outside. * '''EXPO Exhibition Center "WASSE"''' (W11) - A space that is used for events, gatherings, and limited-time exhibitions. ====L: Future Life Zone==== The Future Life Village houses most of the featured sites, so they are more like booths or areas rather than individual pavilions. Most exhibits in this area are scheduled to change monthly, so there isn't a set experience and those who have visited before can have a different experience if they visit in a different month. * '''Gallery West''' (L01) - Has a small indoor display and VR experience and an outdoor space that is used for events throughout the expo. * '''Future Life Experience''' (L02) - Exhibits of how culture, food, and healthcare may look in the future. * '''Team Expo''' (L03) - Focuses on promoting people to take action in their lives on goals set for the future. * '''Mobility Experience''' (L04) - The launching and landing place of the advanced mobility aircraft. * '''Future City''' (L05) - A virtual experience of "The City of Happiness" which is set up much like the expo with a ring around central apartments and restaurants, shops, and a park located on the ring and around the buildings to create a small, self-contained living space with all of one's essentials very close by. * '''Expo Arena "Matsuri"''' (L06) - A large open space with a central stage for concerts and large events. * '''Junior SDG Camp''' (L07) - The actual Junior SDGs Camp is for schools however for stamp collectors, this one is stamped via an 11.5kg concrete weight. * '''Expo Sauna "Taiyo's Tsubomi"''' (L08) - Described as an "experimental sauna ritual", it utilizes heat from the sun to create the sauna's heat. The "ritual" comes from the way you use it. A guide takes visitors through each of the sauna's experiences in the order you're meant to use them. Scents and sounds are used, and the facilities come with instructions, such as a bath where you are to submerge at least up to your ears in order to experience not just the bath but also the sounds that are meant to have soothing effects. Only 100 people can enter per day. ==Do== [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/events/ Numerous events] big and small are held during the Expo. The most easily accessible is the '''One World, One Planet''' show, a synchronized show of sound, lighting and projection mapping across the entire venue, held daily after sunset. ==Buy== Expo is [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/cashless/ cashless], and all payments on site must be made by card or electronic money. [[File:Myaku-Myaku Expo 2025 (best mascot ever).jpg|thumb|Myaku-Myaku]] The '''Expo 2025 Official Store''' has an East Gate and a West Gate shop so whichever is your entrypoint, you will be near a gift shop. You can buy '''Expo passports''' at these shops and they contain the widest variety of goods. Maps of the Expo must also be purchased at information centers near the entrances. The Expo's official mascot is '''Myaku-Myaku''' (ミャクミャク), a bizarre cross between a multi-eyed amoeba and a donut. Gift shops are featured throughout the site, including by the gates, which feature the mascot as many different products. There are also many corporate collaborations featuring the mascot, such as Sanrio characters in a costume of the mascot. Many country pavilions have small gift shops retailing local products, and you can pick up corporate merchandise at most of the company pavilions. ==Eat== Many pavilions will have places to eat featuring their own nation's foods. There are also scattered food trucks, tents, and food courts. The convenience store prices are the same as outside and some of the restaurants, such as ramen restaurants, are comparably reasonable. Most restaurants and international cuisine have highly inflated "Expo prices", so visitors hoping to enjoy foreign foods should expect to pay more. The '''ORA Gaishoku''' in the West Gate Zone (''see above'') is a pavilion that is entirely a dining facility, featuring Osaka cuisine. The area around it also has other restaurants such as a pizzeria and the African restaurant, PANAF. The '''Kura-zushi''' is particularly popular. Conveyer-belt sushi was actually first introduced at Osaka's 1970s Expo, so it was een as fitting to include it upon the Expo's return to the city. The highlight at this Expo is that it features sushi with foods and flavors from over 70 countries, all of which are participating in the Expo. There are 338 seats, making it the largest Kura-zushi restaurant. Reservations are required. A visitor poll actually showed that '''bento's from home''' were the most popular food to eat. When it comes to bringing food and drinks, the food can stay in your bags and be run through the x-rays as normal. Drinks need to be removed from your bags and shown to the security staff at the entrance. If your drink is sealed, you can go through easily. If it is not sealed, they may have you drink some in front of them to prove it is a beverage. They have the authority to confiscate drinks that they deem suspicious, but this is not an issue for most people, and if it does occur, you can purchase drinks at vending machines or convenience stores inside the Expo. ==Drink== There are vending machines throughout the Expo and convenience stores to get drinks to stay hydrated. For alcohol, some country pavilions have their own local beers and wines. Most sit-down restaurants in the pavilion have some alchohol on offer. In addition, there are fun non-alcoholic but exotic drinks not typically available in Japan, such as camel milk at the UAE Pavilion and baobab juice at the African Restaurant, Panaf. ==Sleep== There is no lodging available on site, but it's located in [[Osaka]], which has a wide variety of hotels. Reserve as early as possible. {{guideevent}} {{PartOfTopic|Calendar of events and festivals|Japan}} chxhuigzr20wlt95m3y3cfznv3povdz 5091394 5091052 2025-07-11T11:48:05Z ChubbyWimbus 109402 Before you go seems useful 5091394 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Grand Ring, Expo 2025 banner.jpg}} '''Expo 2025''' (大阪・関西万博 ''Osaka-Kansai Banpaku'') is the site of the [[World's Fair]] for 2025 in [[Osaka]], [[Japan]]. It will run for 6 months from April 13, 2025 until October 13, 2025. ==Understand== [[File:EXPO2025_null2_Appearance.jpg|thumb|null² Pavilion]] Osaka-Kansai 2025 is Japan's third Universal Exposition after Expo '70, also held in Osaka, and [[Expo 2005]] near [[Nagoya]]. The official theme is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". 28 million visitors are projected to attend the exposition, which is spread across 155 hectares on the artificial island of Yumeshima (夢洲, "Dream Island") in the [[Osaka/Bay Area|Bay Area]] district of Osaka. After the Expo is over, Yumeshima will see a different type of dream or nightmare come to life, as Japan's first casino is set to open here in 2030. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/ Event website] ==Before you go== Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. You cannot enter the Expo without a pre-purchased ticket. Even if you have a season pass or the full expo pass, you must still apply for a time slot each day you will visit. If you arrive without a ticket for that day, you will be asked to apply on the spot and there is a high chance that the early hours will already be fully booked. When you buy your ticket online, you will need to choose the date, entry time, and gate. You must enter from the gate that you selected. If you are arriving at Yumeshima Station, the East Gate is closest. If you are arriving by car or by bus, the West Gate is closer. There is a walking course between each gate, so you can still enter, but you'll have a 15-20 minute walk if you choose the gate furthest from your entry point. You can bring food and drinks into the Expo, so if you're worried about costs or don't want to waste time in lines for restaurants or convenience stores, you can buy food ahead of time. You'll get through security faster if your drinks still have the seal on them (see "Eat" section). Sun umbrellas, hand-held fans, neck towels, sunscreen, hats, or any other ways to keep the sun and sweat at bay are highly recommended. From the summer to the end of the Expo, temperatures and humidity are expected to remain high. Many pavilions require you to line up and wait, sometimes for 2+ hours, in the sun with no shade. If you are not prepared, it can be less fun at best and put your health at risk at worst. Only bring what you need and are willing to carry to the Expo. Although the Expo technically has limited luggage storage, they purposefully priced it at an outrageous 10,000 yen to discourage people from bringing luggage (only 100 are accepted even at that price anyway). If you have a hotel, leave all non-essentials there. If you need to store luggage, there are temporary luggage storage facilities for the Expo at Bentencho Station and Sakurajima Station, open from 7:00 to 23:00. If you choose to use these, make sure you arrive to get your luggage before 23:00. You cannot leave your luggage overnight. '''All bags and luggage that is unclaimed after 23:00 will be discarded'''. They offer a service to send it to your hotel for 1500 yen. If you can find a coin locker at a station that is convenient for you, it will be cheaper than using these facilities and you can retrieve it the following day for an additional fee. Just be sure if you are leaving Osaka that you can get your bags in time to catch a train to your next destination since the Expo ends quite late. The Expo is completely '''cashless'''. You will not be able to purchase anything, including water in the scorching heat, with cash, so bring a credit card, have online payment methods such as Pay-Pay, or buy a prepaid card and charge it with plenty of money ahead of time. If your card requires a PIN in order to use, you can make purchases at all venues but the vending machines may not accept your card (drinks can still be bought at one of the convenience stores). ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=14}} {{main|Osaka#Get in}} Visitors to the Expo will generally arrive via Japan's second largest city [[Osaka]], which is a well-connected major travel hub served by [[Kansai International Airport]] ({{IATA|KIX}}) and the JR Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train from [[Tokyo]]. See [[Osaka#Get in]] for the details. Once in Osaka, the Expo site is best accessed via {{marker|type=go|name=Yumeshima Station|wikidata=Q60987816}} (夢洲駅) on the Metro Chuo Line from central Osaka. There are also direct shuttle buses from Kansai and Itami airports as well as major train stations including Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen connections), Osaka and Namba. See [https://www.transport.expo2025.or.jp/en the official transport site] for schedules. Upon arriving, make sure you queue up at the gate that you When you get to the Expo, you will be asked to go through a scanner similar to you would at an airport. You need to remove any drinks from your bags to be checked. Once you are through security, you must present your QR Code ticket. A screenshot of your QR code ticket also suffices. ==Get around== Walking is the primary way to get around. Skateboards, scooters, roller skates, etc. are banned from being brought into the Expo. There is a bus that circles the Expo and stops near various points that requires a reservation in order to use. ==See== During the Expo, adult one-day ticket options include &yen;7500 for an unlimited full day ticket, &yen;6000 weekday tickets valid from 11:00, and &yen;3700 for "night tickets" valid from 17:00 on the ticket, but you can enter from 16:00. Discounted senior, student and group tickets are also available. There are also a Season Pass giving unlimited entry for &yen;30,000 and a Summer Pass allowing entry every day between 19th Jul and 31st Aug for &yen;12,000. Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. The sheer size of the Expo means that it is impossible to cover everything in one day, and access to some of the more popular events and pavilions is capacity controlled with several rather convoluted systems. Allow at least two days if you wish to visit all pavilions of interest. It is wise to choose in advance which of the high-profile sites you want to visit and get them reserved early, then fill in the gaps with the more low-key attractions. Lines tend to shorten as the Expo approaches closing time, although if you cut it too close you run the risk of not getting in at all. * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/private_pavilion/ Full list]. ===Grand Ring=== [[File:Oyane-ring southeast.jpg|thumb|The Grand Ring]] The {{marker|type=see|name=Grand Ring|wikidata=Q133959805}} is a 2 km timber structure and walkway that rises to a height of 20 metres. One of the world's largest wooden structures, it offers views of the entire exhibition area. People can walk freely under the ring, which has benches, vending machines, and a few shops. It also provides respite from summer heat and rain. Some pavilions located along the perimeter, such as Bulgaria and Italy, have their queues under the ring. The top of the ring can be accessed by a handful of escalators scattered around its perimeter or by stairs which can also be used in case of emergency. At the center of the exhibition area within the Grand Ring, [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/official-participant/ over 100 countries] have their own pavilions along with the Signature Pavilions. There are five "commons" buildings, which house multiple countries who don't have their own pavilions. They are scattered throughout the Grand Ring and its sections. The following zones are located within the Grand Ring. They include the pavilion number for easy map-checking as the official maps use the numbers. ====P: Empowering Lives Zone==== [[File:EXPO 2025 America Pavilion.jpg|thumb|USA Pavilion]] * '''Ireland''' (P01) - The building is designed to represent the Irish triskele. Inside there is a scent area where you can smell Irish plants, an exhibit about Lafcadio Hearn who was part Irish, and Irish folk music performances. * '''Malaysia''' (P02) - Begins with colorful cultural displays of foods from each region of the country followed by exhibits about the future. A highlight is the central tree made from traditional handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons A''' (P03) Features exhibits and shops of Barbados, Bolivia, Burundi, Comoros, Eswatini, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritius, North Macedonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Suriname, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Yemen * '''Jordan''' (P04) - Has videos of culture and tourist attractions, musical stones, and 22 tons of sand from [[Wadi Rum]] that visitors can walk on and touch. Although it is one of the small pavilions, the sand and interactive experiences have made it very popular. Waiting times can go past 2 hours. * '''Peru''' (P05) - Video about the history and culture followed by cultural object displays. * '''Advanced Air Mobility''' (p07) - A video about air mobility. Reservation required. * '''Mozambique''' (P08) - Video followed by displays of cultural objects. * '''Philippines''' (P09) - "Woven" is the theme, and the exterior features woven hammocks. Inside, there are weavings, and you can dance around as an AI plant. * '''United States'''(P11) - A star mascot and catchy theme song guide you through scenes from around the country before leading into exhibits about American space innovations. The theme song is in English for the English tours and in Japanese for Japanese tours. Chinese tours are also available twice per day. Has a restaurant. * '''France''' (P12) - An exhibit that alternates Louis Vuitton art installations and authentic Rodin hand sculptures. The odd combination of vapid consumerism and deep cultural heritage somehow manages to feel coherent and impressive. Has a restaurant. * '''Robot and Mobility''' (P14) - Showcases drones, cars, etc. with occasional demonstrations. * '''Vietnam''' (P15) - Small, with clothing, a recreated temple, and other objects and information. At certain times they perform traditional museum with the instruments on display. * '''Qatar''' (P17) - Designed to represent the nation's dhows, the inner exhibits also feature the country's relationship with the sea. * '''United Arab Emirates''' (P18) - Features giant pillars made of date palm trees, information is scattered about the spacious room with 3 rotating videos featured in the back. Has a restaurant. * '''Canada'''(P19) - Walk through ice bergs and other exhibits with a handheld VR tablet that will show various scenes of Canada when you point them at the physical objects. * '''Portugal''' (P20) - Themed around the ocean and the need to take better care of it. * '''Colombia''' (P21) - Butterfly lights on the ceiling guide you through the pavilion to view the actual typewriter used by Gabriel Garcia Martez to write the novel One Hundred Years of Solitude, a circle of objects from the country that you can touch, and an information room. Has a restaurant. * '''Switzerland''' (P22) - You can say your wish for the "future society" into a microphone and create a real bubble that takes your wish upwards * '''Austria''' (P23) - Video of musical history and musical touchscreens. * '''Brazil''' (P26) - Art installation in the main building featuring inflatables, exhibits about the country and paints available for you to paint tribal patterns on your face or hands. * '''Kuwait''' (P27) - Contains a video of a futuristic vision of the country and actual sand brought from the dessert that you can touch and compare to sand you've felt in Japan or elsewhere. * '''China''' (P28) - Animated videos of Chinese culture in a traditional painting-style and replicas of cultural treasures. * '''International Organizations Pavilion''' (P29) - World Expo Museum, ITER project, ASEAN * '''United Nations''' (P30) - History of the UN, how the UN effects people's lives, a video, and a shop. * '''Red Cross and Red Crescent''' (P31) - A video and information about what the organization does. * '''Bahrain''' (P34) - Contains a variety of objects made by craftsman and cultural objects. * '''Turkmenistan''' (P35) - Has a video about the country followed by some cultural objects. The colorful building featuring a white horse is considered to be one of the most eye-catching at the Expo. * '''Nordic''' (Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) (P36) - A glorified lounge; lots of space, not much to see. Has a restaurant. * '''Malta''' (P37) - Features videos of Malta's history and 3 authentic samurai armor suits gifted to Malta by Fukuzawa Yukichi in 1862 that have not been on display since they put in storage for safety during WWII. * '''Czech Republic''' (P38) - Built with materials from the Czech Republic, such as spruce and Bohemian glass. Artwork lines the walls and art using the glass is also featured. ====X: Signature Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-DYNAMIC EQUILIBRIUM OF LIFE-pavilion.jpg|thumb|Dynamic Equilibrium of Life Pavilion]] * '''Better Co-Being''' (X01) - An open-air exhibit of various art installations intended to bring people closer together, the daytime experience feels more in touch with nature while the nighttime experience feels more otherworldy. Reservation required. * '''Future of Life''' (X02) - Gives history of projecting life onto objects ending in robots and AI from where it introduces ideas of a future in which robots and humans live among each other. It follows the mental struggle of an elderly woman who must decide between dying a natural death or placing her memories inside a robot as a gift to her granddaughter so that she can continue to interact with "her" even after she passes. It posing questions about what is life and what does it mean to be human. It ends with robots emerging from peach-like structures, meant to evoke the Momotaro folktale, where you can see their expressions up close as they move and gesture towards you to show that robots are already capable of invoking emotion and response from you to further push visitors to confront discomforts surrounding robots. Reservation required. * '''Jellyfish Pavilion''' (X03) - A fun pavilion to relax in; it's especially pretty at night when it's lit up. * {{see | name=OCHIAI Yoichi's Signature Pavilion "Forging Lives" null² | alt=X04 | url=https://expo2025.digitalnatureandarts.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q134286794 | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content= Has two completely different experiences. The Installation tour is a 10 minute sound and visual art display. The Dialogue tour creates an AI version of you that you can communicate with and it will replicate you. Reservation required. }} * '''Dynamic Equilibrium of Life''' (X05) - The "dynamic equilibrium" is defined as "a system that is in constant change yet is balanced as a whole". This concept is artfully illustrated through a narrated (Japanese and English) light show. Reservation required. * '''Live Earth Journey: Totality of Life''' (X06) - A virtual reality experience. Reservation required. * '''Earth Mart''' (X07) - Attempts to show how we can eat sutainably through projections and a variety of interactive exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Dialogue of Theater''' (X08) - One participant is chosen from the crowd to engage in a dialogue with someone on video from elsewhere in Japan. Each of the 184 days of the Expo, the question that the two people must answer and discuss is different. The idea is to bridge divides by talking and engaging rather than dissociating. Because the participants are randomly chosen, every session's discussion is different and it is unknown to what exent the participants will be "divided" if at all. Reservation required. ====S: Saving Lives Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-HungaryPavilion.jpg|thumb|Hungary Pavilion]] * '''Commons C''' (S01) - Feaures exhibits from Croatia, Gabon, Guatemala, Israel, Montenegro, Panama, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Uruguay. Has a Gabon restaurant. * '''Chile''' (S02) - Mostly empty room with weavings on the ceiling. * '''Tunisia''' (S03) - Makes good use of the small pavilion with projections and the opportunity to have your name written in Arabic, inscribe your name on a plate, or get handmade pottery from the man outside. Has a restaurant. * '''Cambodia''' (S04) - Recreates parts of a stone temple with a replica of Angkor Wat in the center. * '''Algeria''' (S05) - A video with an AI child. * '''Baltic''' (Latvia and Lithuania) (S06) - Medicinal herbs from these countries and art featuring their mascot. Estonia did not participate. * '''European Union''' (S07) - Has a machine-tended zen rock garden and colorful flower and origami exhibits. * '''Belgium''' (S08) Free Biscoff cookie when entering. Focuses on Belgium's importance in medical innovation and technology. * '''Italy and the Holy See''' (S09) - The theme is "Art Regenerates Life". The Italian part features authentic paintings and sculptures from Michaelangelo, pages from the Da Vinci Codex, Olympic Torches. The 16th century painting "Portrait of Ito Mancio" by Domenico Tintoretto commemorates the first diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. The Vatican contributed Caravaggio's painting "The Deposition" (also commonly called "The Entombment of Christ"), which depicts Christ being laid on th Anointing Stone by Nocodemus, John, and holy women. It is considered to be Caravaggio's best work. Although the authentic artwork is the highlight, the pavilion also features videos, Italian craftwork, modern inventions, and a rooftop garden. This is the most popular pavilion at the Expo. Reservations are available but not required. Without a reservation, expect 3+ hour wait on weekdays and 4+ hour wait on weekends. Has a restaurant. * '''Singapore''' (S11) - Focused around dreams, it's an interactive exhibit that allows you to write down your dream and then move into the projection dome where your dream will appear to help build the city. * '''Bulgaria''' (S12) - In Japan, Bulgaria is synonymous with yogurt in the most literal sense; "Bulgaria" is the name of a popular yogurt brand. Bulgaria introduced yogurt to Japan at the 1970 Expo. Because of this association, the pavilion uses yogurt and its bacteria as the base from which to introduce ideas about different cultures working together for the betterment of society like the good yogurt bacteria does in the human body. There is also a video where you can see the wishes of those who previously visited and you can use the QR code in the pavilion to write your own wishes for the next groups to read. English tours at 18:00 each day, arrive a few minutes early and tell the staff (do not get in the queue if you are doing the English tour). * '''Netherlands''' (S13) - Carrying a glowing orb as your guide, you'll learn about the history of the Netherlands' relationship with its waterways, from hardships to modern innovations intended to harness its power. Reservations required after 11:00. * '''Commons D''' (S14) - Features exhibits from Antigua and Barbuda, Cameroon, Cuba, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Honduras, Laos, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Mongolia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Tajikistan, Togo, Burkina Faso, Belize, and Bhutan * '''Oman''' (S15) - Projection mappings and a video. Has a restaurant. * '''Hungary''' (S16) - Local flora and a concert by a folk singer. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons E''' (S17) - Features art exhibits. * '''Poland''' (S20) - Flower projections and art made with traditional Polish goods. * '''Romania''' (S21) A video, live performance, and exhibits of traditional woodwork and handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''United Kingdom''' (S22) - Themed around dreams as "building blocks", follows a block mascot and daughter talking to her father in the UK. Features an interactive game. Has a restaurant. * '''Angola''' (S23) Opened in late June, the pavilion features a video story about a girl with malaria that promotes a future where modern medicine without devaluing traditional medicine. After that, you can listen to different people speak about various topics. Has a restaurant. ====C: Connecting Lives Zone==== [[File:韓国 パビリオン.jpg|thumb|Korea Pavilion]] * '''Nepal''' (C01) (not open as of June 2025) * '''Luxembourg''' (C02) - A video about life in Luxembourg, exhibits about Luxembourg as "the heart of Europe" * '''Germany''' (C03) - Carrying a light-up mascot of the pavilion, it will guide you in the language of your choice (Japanese, English, or German). The pavilion focuses on sustainability and solving modern problems, such as what to do with abandoned city housing. Roll your mascot down a chute to exit the pavilion. * '''Korea''' (C04) - A sound and light show, green energy art displays, and video * '''Commons F''' (C05) - Features exhibits from Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Brunei Darussalam * '''Azerbaijan''' (C07) - Arguably one of the most beautiful from the outside with its white arches and wooden ethnic dancers that spin over water between each arch, inside there is a rather long video followed by a hall of cultural objects from the country. Has a restaurant. * '''Monaco''' (C10) - Consists of 3 separate buildings, the first featuring a video of Monaco's culture, sensory touching, and a tacky VR experience. The others are located along an outside path with small gardens and interactive play spaces. They feature a maritime protection building with an attractive central pillar and projections and another small building with touch panels to learn more about the country. Has a wine bar. * '''Turkey''' (C11) - The main intrigue is the illuminated sun and moon, the sun representing Japan and the moon representing Turkey. The outside Turkish ice cream and Turkish food vendor are more popular than the pavilion itself. * '''Thailand''' (C12) - After a video introduction, the exhibits focus on food. Reservations for Thai massages can be made. Has a restaurant. * '''Spain''' (C13) - Exhibits about the ocean followed by a vibrant orange room with some postcards. * '''Saudi Arabia''' (C14) - Arabian architecture, multiple buildings with different exhibits and a central area where performances and demonstrations are held. Project-mapping is done of the buildings at night. Has a cafe. * '''Australia''' (C15) - Recreates a forest with video representations of local animals appearing in the trees. * '''Indonesia''' (C16) - A Sumatran forest with unique animals scattered about, a thoughtful video, and authentic blades from various ethnic groups * '''India''' (C17) - The pavilion was built to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of Enlightenment. Inside there are videos about Indian innovations along with Indian cultural objects. * '''Uzbekistan''' (C18) - Introduces the culture of the country before taking you to the roof which utilizes the same wood as the Grand Ring in its own unique design. * '''Serbia''' (C19) - "Understanding through play" is the theme, so it features a variety of interactive exhibits. * '''Bangladesh''' (C20) - Various objects around the room with a video in the back. * '''Senegal''' (C21) - Words on the wall about the country and a shop. * '''Egypt''' (C22) - Video projections of famous Egyptian sites. * '''Commons B''' (C23) - Features exhibits from Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Guyana, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Djibouti, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Somalia, Tanzania, Chad, Central African Republic, Tuvalu, Dominica, Nauru, Haiti, Paraguay, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Benin, Micronesia, Mauritania, and Lesotho. ====F: Forest of Tranquility==== [[File:Expo2025静けさの森、中心部の池.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Forest of Tranquility]] An attractive forest with paths for visitors to explore in the center of the inner ring. It consists of trees that were scheduled for thinning from Expo 70 Commemoration Park in [[Suita]] along with trees transplanted from other parks around Osaka Prefecture, including Osaka Castle Park. For passport stamp collectors, the Forest of Tranquility is one of the only venues that does not have a stamp. This is on purpose; frantic stamp collecting is neither relaxing nor tranquil. ===Outside the Grand Ring=== The following are venues located outside the grand ring representing Japan with the Japan Pavilion, Kansai Pavilion, and 12 Japanese megacorps pavilions, along with other non-country pavilions, such as the Women's Pavilion. These are typically highlights of the exposition, with Bandai's GUNDAM Pavilion guaranteed to draw crowds. They are well worth visiting but nearly all require reservations, so temper your expectations. You'll need multiple days with lots of lottery luck if you plan to enter more than just a few. ====E: East Gate Zone==== * '''Kansai''' (E01) Features some of the traditional prefectures that make up Kansai ([[Shiga]], [[Mie]], [[Wakayama (prefecture)|Wakayama]], [[Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]], [[Hyogo]], along with [[Tottori (prefecture)|Tottori]], [[Fukui (prefecture)|Fukui]], and [[Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima]]. Each prefecture has its own exhibition space branching off from the center. There is a [[Nara (prefecture)|Nara]] stamp for collectors however, Nara does not have an exhibition space. Osaka is not featured because the Expo is in Osaka and one hope of the pavilion is to inspire visitors to explore other prefectures. The exhibitions and features change throughout the festival, but the overall experience is similar: **Shiga: A 20 minute video with floating ball art. **Mie: Walk through a tunnel with projection-mappings of prefectural beauty followed by interactive exhibits where you can open doors and turn flaps to see and learn about famous places, objects, products, animals, and nature from the prefecture. **Wakayama: Large taiko drums for performances. **Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]]: Features local lacquerware art and products. **Hyogo: A video of prefectural highlights **Tottori: Using a magnifying glass, as a nod to Detective Conan whose creator is from [[Hokuei]], you first walk on sand from the Tottori Sand Dunes to find and learn about various things from the prefecture followed by a projection-mapping show over the sand. **Fukui: Using digital flashlights, you can find dinosaur fossils and then shine your light on Fukui dinosaurs, such as Fukuititan and Fukuiraptors, as they move around you. **Tokushima: Known for its indigo dyes, visitors can dip a thread into indigo dye and tie it to a traditional drying rack. There are also some cultural objects and a few interaction displays that you can feel and smell. Reservation required. * '''Osaka Healthcare''' (E02) - Has information about Japanese innovations in healthcare, demonstrations of a self-washer (an updated one from that which was featured at the 1970s Expo), and a body scan that creates an AI version of you and tells you where your health will likely take you in 2050. Reservations required, different reservations exist for regular entry versus regular entry plus the 2050 avatar experience. * '''NTT''' (E03) - Starts with a 3-D glasses video of the music group Perfume singing followed by a video show using the bodies of those in the room. Outside there are old-fashioned phones inside phone booths that play various sounds when you dial the numbers. Reservation required (outside phones can be used by anyone). * '''Mitsubishi''' (E05) - A video. Reservation required. * '''Panasonic Group - The Land of Nomo''' (E06) - Walk through with a crystal that you can use to interact with various exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Sumitomo''' (E07) - With the theme "The Unknown Forest", it begins with a video that sets the tone and setting of the forest before visitors are able to explore the unknown forest themselves on a walk with hand-held lanterns. Reservation required. * '''Electric Power - Eggs of Possibilities''' (E08) - Walk through the pavilion holding a glowing egg. There is a light show as well as interactive exhibits, some of which require use of your egg. Reservation required. * '''Women's Pavilion in Collaboration with Cartier''' (E09) - Using an audio guide (English option available), visitors are randomly separated into three groups to follow the story of one of three women before reuniting to read timelines of recent achievements by women, improvements in laws protecting women, and female firsts. Lastly, there is a room with various people (including men) with holes in their chests that you reach into to hear their stories. Reservations possible but not required. * '''Japan''' (E10) - With an attractive architectural design, the building has excellent visual exhibits showcasing Japanese innovations related to sustainability, such as plastic disintegration and algae, including the Hello Kitty algae display that for many became symbols of the Expo alongside the mascot. The pavilion is informative yet also artistic. Non-reservations from 9:00-11:00 and 19:30-21:00, Reservation required during daytime. * '''EXPO Hall "Shining Hat"''' (E11) - Has projection-mapping on the outside at night. * '''EXPO National Day Hall "Ray Garden"''' (E12) - A National Day is held for each country participating in the Expo. This is where they hold those performances. Nearly every day is a "national day". Visitors can check the website to see if their visit day coincides with a National Day that interests them. * '''Gallery EAST''' (E13) - A small showcase of paintings and cultural objects. ====W: West Gate Zone==== * '''Tech World (Taiwan)''' (W02) - Taiwan is not permitted to have a pavilion under its name, so in spite of the name "Tech World", this is Taiwan's pavilion. It features a projection-mapping about its nature and information about its technology with a focus on IC chips. * '''Gas Pavilion Obake Wonderland''' (W03) - "Ghost Wonderland". With a VR headset, you become a ghost and can interact with your surroundings as you navigate the world. Lessons about human waste manifest in the CO2 monster that must be destroyed. Popular with children. Reservation required. * '''Iida Group''' (W04) - Videos and models of their vision of future Smart Homes surrounded by circles (much like the Grand Ring) that contain grocery stores, shopping malls, and other necessities and entertainment for those in the apartments. * '''ORA Gaishoku''' (W05) - A dining facility showcasing Osaka foods. It contains a variety of Japanese cultural objects including an entire float from the Nebuta Festival in [[Aomori]]. * '''Blue Ocean Dome''' (W06) - Follow water droplets through a Pythagorean device also known as a Rube Goldberg machine-style contraption followed by a video. Reservation required. * '''Gundam NEXT Future''' (W07) - Uses videos to make you feel like you're inside a Gundam looking out during a battle. Reservation required. * '''Pasona Natureverse''' (W09) - Utilizes Astro Boy, a former vision of the future, to introduce a "Neo-Astro Boy", with exhibits about life-giving medicine. One of the highlights is a real lab-grown beating heart made from IPS cells. The Astro Boy statue sitting on the building is a popular photo op. * '''Yoshiimoto waraii myraii''' (W10) - Described as a waste of space by adults, children enjoy rolling down the slopes on the outside. * '''EXPO Exhibition Center "WASSE"''' (W11) - A space that is used for events, gatherings, and limited-time exhibitions. ====L: Future Life Zone==== The Future Life Village houses most of the featured sites, so they are more like booths or areas rather than individual pavilions. Most exhibits in this area are scheduled to change monthly, so there isn't a set experience and those who have visited before can have a different experience if they visit in a different month. * '''Gallery West''' (L01) - Has a small indoor display and VR experience and an outdoor space that is used for events throughout the expo. * '''Future Life Experience''' (L02) - Exhibits of how culture, food, and healthcare may look in the future. * '''Team Expo''' (L03) - Focuses on promoting people to take action in their lives on goals set for the future. * '''Mobility Experience''' (L04) - The launching and landing place of the advanced mobility aircraft. * '''Future City''' (L05) - A virtual experience of "The City of Happiness" which is set up much like the expo with a ring around central apartments and restaurants, shops, and a park located on the ring and around the buildings to create a small, self-contained living space with all of one's essentials very close by. * '''Expo Arena "Matsuri"''' (L06) - A large open space with a central stage for concerts and large events. * '''Junior SDG Camp''' (L07) - The actual Junior SDGs Camp is for schools however for stamp collectors, this one is stamped via an 11.5kg concrete weight. * '''Expo Sauna "Taiyo's Tsubomi"''' (L08) - Described as an "experimental sauna ritual", it utilizes heat from the sun to create the sauna's heat. The "ritual" comes from the way you use it. A guide takes visitors through each of the sauna's experiences in the order you're meant to use them. Scents and sounds are used, and the facilities come with instructions, such as a bath where you are to submerge at least up to your ears in order to experience not just the bath but also the sounds that are meant to have soothing effects. Only 100 people can enter per day. ==Do== [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/events/ Numerous events] big and small are held during the Expo. The most easily accessible is the '''One World, One Planet''' show, a synchronized show of sound, lighting and projection mapping across the entire venue, held daily after sunset. ==Buy== Expo is [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/cashless/ cashless], and all payments on site must be made by card or electronic money. [[File:Myaku-Myaku Expo 2025 (best mascot ever).jpg|thumb|Myaku-Myaku]] The '''Expo 2025 Official Store''' has an East Gate and a West Gate shop so whichever is your entrypoint, you will be near a gift shop. You can buy '''Expo passports''' at these shops and they contain the widest variety of goods. Maps of the Expo must also be purchased at information centers near the entrances. The Expo's official mascot is '''Myaku-Myaku''' (ミャクミャク), a bizarre cross between a multi-eyed amoeba and a donut. Gift shops are featured throughout the site, including by the gates, which feature the mascot as many different products. There are also many corporate collaborations featuring the mascot, such as Sanrio characters in a costume of the mascot. Many country pavilions have small gift shops retailing local products, and you can pick up corporate merchandise at most of the company pavilions. ==Eat== Many pavilions will have places to eat featuring their own nation's foods. There are also scattered food trucks, tents, and food courts. The convenience store prices are the same as outside and some of the restaurants, such as ramen restaurants, are comparably reasonable. Most restaurants and international cuisine have highly inflated "Expo prices", so visitors hoping to enjoy foreign foods should expect to pay more. The '''ORA Gaishoku''' in the West Gate Zone (''see above'') is a pavilion that is entirely a dining facility, featuring Osaka cuisine. The area around it also has other restaurants such as a pizzeria and the African restaurant, PANAF. The '''Kura-zushi''' is particularly popular. Conveyer-belt sushi was actually first introduced at Osaka's 1970s Expo, so it was een as fitting to include it upon the Expo's return to the city. The highlight at this Expo is that it features sushi with foods and flavors from over 70 countries, all of which are participating in the Expo. There are 338 seats, making it the largest Kura-zushi restaurant. Reservations are required. A visitor poll actually showed that '''bento's from home''' were the most popular food to eat. When it comes to bringing food and drinks, the food can stay in your bags and be run through the x-rays as normal. Drinks need to be removed from your bags and shown to the security staff at the entrance. If your drink is sealed, you can go through easily. If it is not sealed, they may have you drink some in front of them to prove it is a beverage. They have the authority to confiscate drinks that they deem suspicious, but this is not an issue for most people, and if it does occur, you can purchase drinks at vending machines or convenience stores inside the Expo. ==Drink== There are vending machines throughout the Expo and convenience stores to get drinks to stay hydrated. For alcohol, some country pavilions have their own local beers and wines. Most sit-down restaurants in the pavilion have some alchohol on offer. In addition, there are fun non-alcoholic but exotic drinks not typically available in Japan, such as camel milk at the UAE Pavilion and baobab juice at the African Restaurant, Panaf. ==Sleep== There is no lodging available on site, but it's located in [[Osaka]], which has a wide variety of hotels. Reserve as early as possible. {{guideevent}} {{PartOfTopic|Calendar of events and festivals|Japan}} cs9ziu31j6alx59q17uc46q51r7bbsg 5091398 5091394 2025-07-11T11:53:23Z ChubbyWimbus 109402 /* Before you go */ 5091398 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Grand Ring, Expo 2025 banner.jpg}} '''Expo 2025''' (大阪・関西万博 ''Osaka-Kansai Banpaku'') is the site of the [[World's Fair]] for 2025 in [[Osaka]], [[Japan]]. It will run for 6 months from April 13, 2025 until October 13, 2025. ==Understand== [[File:EXPO2025_null2_Appearance.jpg|thumb|null² Pavilion]] Osaka-Kansai 2025 is Japan's third Universal Exposition after Expo '70, also held in Osaka, and [[Expo 2005]] near [[Nagoya]]. The official theme is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". 28 million visitors are projected to attend the exposition, which is spread across 155 hectares on the artificial island of Yumeshima (夢洲, "Dream Island") in the [[Osaka/Bay Area|Bay Area]] district of Osaka. After the Expo is over, Yumeshima will see a different type of dream or nightmare come to life, as Japan's first casino is set to open here in 2030. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/ Event website] ==Before you go== ===Tickets=== Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. You cannot enter the Expo without a pre-purchased ticket. Even if you have a season pass or the full expo pass, you must still apply for a time slot each day you will visit. If you arrive without a ticket for that day, you will be asked to apply on the spot and there is a high chance that the early hours will already be fully booked. When you buy your ticket online, you will need to choose the date, entry time, and gate. You must enter from the gate that you selected. If you are arriving at Yumeshima Station, the East Gate is closest. If you are arriving by car or by bus, the West Gate is closer. There is a walking course between each gate, so you can still enter, but you'll have a 15-20 minute walk if you choose the gate furthest from your entry point. ===Cashless only=== The Expo is completely '''cashless'''. You will not be able to purchase anything, including water in the scorching heat, with cash, so bring a credit card, have online payment methods such as Pay-Pay, or buy a prepaid card and charge it with plenty of money ahead of time. If your card requires a PIN in order to use, you can make purchases at all venues but the vending machines may not accept your card (drinks can still be bought at one of the convenience stores). ===What to bring=== You can bring food and drinks into the Expo, so if you're worried about costs or don't want to waste time in lines for restaurants or convenience stores, you can buy food ahead of time. You'll get through security faster if your drinks still have the seal on them (see "Eat" section). Sun umbrellas, hand-held fans, neck towels, sunscreen, hats, or any other ways to keep the sun and sweat at bay are highly recommended. From the summer to the end of the Expo, temperatures and humidity are expected to remain high. Many pavilions require you to line up and wait, sometimes for 2+ hours, in the sun with no shade. If you are not prepared, it can be less fun at best and put your health at risk at worst. If you forget or realize that conditions are worse than what you thought, you can buy most of these items at the Expo however, you may waste time in queues to get them and they may cost a lot more. ===Bags and luggage storage=== Only bring what you need and are willing to carry to the Expo. Although the Expo technically has limited luggage storage, they purposefully priced it at an outrageous 10,000 yen to discourage people from bringing luggage (only 100 are accepted even at that price anyway). If you have a hotel, leave all non-essentials there. If you need to store luggage, there are temporary luggage storage facilities for the Expo at Bentencho Station and Sakurajima Station, open from 7:00 to 23:00. If you choose to use these, make sure you arrive to get your luggage before 23:00. You cannot leave your luggage overnight. '''All bags and luggage that is unclaimed after 23:00 will be discarded'''. They offer a service to send it to your hotel for 1500 yen. If you can find a coin locker at a station that is convenient for you, it will be cheaper than using these facilities and you can retrieve it the following day for an additional fee. Just be sure if you are leaving Osaka that you can get your bags in time to catch a train to your next destination since the Expo ends quite late. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=14}} {{main|Osaka#Get in}} Visitors to the Expo will generally arrive via Japan's second largest city [[Osaka]], which is a well-connected major travel hub served by [[Kansai International Airport]] ({{IATA|KIX}}) and the JR Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train from [[Tokyo]]. See [[Osaka#Get in]] for the details. Once in Osaka, the Expo site is best accessed via {{marker|type=go|name=Yumeshima Station|wikidata=Q60987816}} (夢洲駅) on the Metro Chuo Line from central Osaka. There are also direct shuttle buses from Kansai and Itami airports as well as major train stations including Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen connections), Osaka and Namba. See [https://www.transport.expo2025.or.jp/en the official transport site] for schedules. Upon arriving, make sure you queue up at the gate that you When you get to the Expo, you will be asked to go through a scanner similar to you would at an airport. You need to remove any drinks from your bags to be checked. Once you are through security, you must present your QR Code ticket. A screenshot of your QR code ticket also suffices. ==Get around== Walking is the primary way to get around. Skateboards, scooters, roller skates, etc. are banned from being brought into the Expo. There is a bus that circles the Expo and stops near various points that requires a reservation in order to use. ==See== During the Expo, adult one-day ticket options include &yen;7500 for an unlimited full day ticket, &yen;6000 weekday tickets valid from 11:00, and &yen;3700 for "night tickets" valid from 17:00 on the ticket, but you can enter from 16:00. Discounted senior, student and group tickets are also available. There are also a Season Pass giving unlimited entry for &yen;30,000 and a Summer Pass allowing entry every day between 19th Jul and 31st Aug for &yen;12,000. Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. The sheer size of the Expo means that it is impossible to cover everything in one day, and access to some of the more popular events and pavilions is capacity controlled with several rather convoluted systems. Allow at least two days if you wish to visit all pavilions of interest. It is wise to choose in advance which of the high-profile sites you want to visit and get them reserved early, then fill in the gaps with the more low-key attractions. Lines tend to shorten as the Expo approaches closing time, although if you cut it too close you run the risk of not getting in at all. * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/private_pavilion/ Full list]. ===Grand Ring=== [[File:Oyane-ring southeast.jpg|thumb|The Grand Ring]] The {{marker|type=see|name=Grand Ring|wikidata=Q133959805}} is a 2 km timber structure and walkway that rises to a height of 20 metres. One of the world's largest wooden structures, it offers views of the entire exhibition area. People can walk freely under the ring, which has benches, vending machines, and a few shops. It also provides respite from summer heat and rain. Some pavilions located along the perimeter, such as Bulgaria and Italy, have their queues under the ring. The top of the ring can be accessed by a handful of escalators scattered around its perimeter or by stairs which can also be used in case of emergency. At the center of the exhibition area within the Grand Ring, [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/official-participant/ over 100 countries] have their own pavilions along with the Signature Pavilions. There are five "commons" buildings, which house multiple countries who don't have their own pavilions. They are scattered throughout the Grand Ring and its sections. The following zones are located within the Grand Ring. They include the pavilion number for easy map-checking as the official maps use the numbers. ====P: Empowering Lives Zone==== [[File:EXPO 2025 America Pavilion.jpg|thumb|USA Pavilion]] * '''Ireland''' (P01) - The building is designed to represent the Irish triskele. Inside there is a scent area where you can smell Irish plants, an exhibit about Lafcadio Hearn who was part Irish, and Irish folk music performances. * '''Malaysia''' (P02) - Begins with colorful cultural displays of foods from each region of the country followed by exhibits about the future. A highlight is the central tree made from traditional handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons A''' (P03) Features exhibits and shops of Barbados, Bolivia, Burundi, Comoros, Eswatini, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritius, North Macedonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Suriname, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Yemen * '''Jordan''' (P04) - Has videos of culture and tourist attractions, musical stones, and 22 tons of sand from [[Wadi Rum]] that visitors can walk on and touch. Although it is one of the small pavilions, the sand and interactive experiences have made it very popular. Waiting times can go past 2 hours. * '''Peru''' (P05) - Video about the history and culture followed by cultural object displays. * '''Advanced Air Mobility''' (p07) - A video about air mobility. Reservation required. * '''Mozambique''' (P08) - Video followed by displays of cultural objects. * '''Philippines''' (P09) - "Woven" is the theme, and the exterior features woven hammocks. Inside, there are weavings, and you can dance around as an AI plant. * '''United States'''(P11) - A star mascot and catchy theme song guide you through scenes from around the country before leading into exhibits about American space innovations. The theme song is in English for the English tours and in Japanese for Japanese tours. Chinese tours are also available twice per day. Has a restaurant. * '''France''' (P12) - An exhibit that alternates Louis Vuitton art installations and authentic Rodin hand sculptures. The odd combination of vapid consumerism and deep cultural heritage somehow manages to feel coherent and impressive. Has a restaurant. * '''Robot and Mobility''' (P14) - Showcases drones, cars, etc. with occasional demonstrations. * '''Vietnam''' (P15) - Small, with clothing, a recreated temple, and other objects and information. At certain times they perform traditional museum with the instruments on display. * '''Qatar''' (P17) - Designed to represent the nation's dhows, the inner exhibits also feature the country's relationship with the sea. * '''United Arab Emirates''' (P18) - Features giant pillars made of date palm trees, information is scattered about the spacious room with 3 rotating videos featured in the back. Has a restaurant. * '''Canada'''(P19) - Walk through ice bergs and other exhibits with a handheld VR tablet that will show various scenes of Canada when you point them at the physical objects. * '''Portugal''' (P20) - Themed around the ocean and the need to take better care of it. * '''Colombia''' (P21) - Butterfly lights on the ceiling guide you through the pavilion to view the actual typewriter used by Gabriel Garcia Martez to write the novel One Hundred Years of Solitude, a circle of objects from the country that you can touch, and an information room. Has a restaurant. * '''Switzerland''' (P22) - You can say your wish for the "future society" into a microphone and create a real bubble that takes your wish upwards * '''Austria''' (P23) - Video of musical history and musical touchscreens. * '''Brazil''' (P26) - Art installation in the main building featuring inflatables, exhibits about the country and paints available for you to paint tribal patterns on your face or hands. * '''Kuwait''' (P27) - Contains a video of a futuristic vision of the country and actual sand brought from the dessert that you can touch and compare to sand you've felt in Japan or elsewhere. * '''China''' (P28) - Animated videos of Chinese culture in a traditional painting-style and replicas of cultural treasures. * '''International Organizations Pavilion''' (P29) - World Expo Museum, ITER project, ASEAN * '''United Nations''' (P30) - History of the UN, how the UN effects people's lives, a video, and a shop. * '''Red Cross and Red Crescent''' (P31) - A video and information about what the organization does. * '''Bahrain''' (P34) - Contains a variety of objects made by craftsman and cultural objects. * '''Turkmenistan''' (P35) - Has a video about the country followed by some cultural objects. The colorful building featuring a white horse is considered to be one of the most eye-catching at the Expo. * '''Nordic''' (Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) (P36) - A glorified lounge; lots of space, not much to see. Has a restaurant. * '''Malta''' (P37) - Features videos of Malta's history and 3 authentic samurai armor suits gifted to Malta by Fukuzawa Yukichi in 1862 that have not been on display since they put in storage for safety during WWII. * '''Czech Republic''' (P38) - Built with materials from the Czech Republic, such as spruce and Bohemian glass. Artwork lines the walls and art using the glass is also featured. ====X: Signature Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-DYNAMIC EQUILIBRIUM OF LIFE-pavilion.jpg|thumb|Dynamic Equilibrium of Life Pavilion]] * '''Better Co-Being''' (X01) - An open-air exhibit of various art installations intended to bring people closer together, the daytime experience feels more in touch with nature while the nighttime experience feels more otherworldy. Reservation required. * '''Future of Life''' (X02) - Gives history of projecting life onto objects ending in robots and AI from where it introduces ideas of a future in which robots and humans live among each other. It follows the mental struggle of an elderly woman who must decide between dying a natural death or placing her memories inside a robot as a gift to her granddaughter so that she can continue to interact with "her" even after she passes. It posing questions about what is life and what does it mean to be human. It ends with robots emerging from peach-like structures, meant to evoke the Momotaro folktale, where you can see their expressions up close as they move and gesture towards you to show that robots are already capable of invoking emotion and response from you to further push visitors to confront discomforts surrounding robots. Reservation required. * '''Jellyfish Pavilion''' (X03) - A fun pavilion to relax in; it's especially pretty at night when it's lit up. * {{see | name=OCHIAI Yoichi's Signature Pavilion "Forging Lives" null² | alt=X04 | url=https://expo2025.digitalnatureandarts.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q134286794 | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content= Has two completely different experiences. The Installation tour is a 10 minute sound and visual art display. The Dialogue tour creates an AI version of you that you can communicate with and it will replicate you. Reservation required. }} * '''Dynamic Equilibrium of Life''' (X05) - The "dynamic equilibrium" is defined as "a system that is in constant change yet is balanced as a whole". This concept is artfully illustrated through a narrated (Japanese and English) light show. Reservation required. * '''Live Earth Journey: Totality of Life''' (X06) - A virtual reality experience. Reservation required. * '''Earth Mart''' (X07) - Attempts to show how we can eat sutainably through projections and a variety of interactive exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Dialogue of Theater''' (X08) - One participant is chosen from the crowd to engage in a dialogue with someone on video from elsewhere in Japan. Each of the 184 days of the Expo, the question that the two people must answer and discuss is different. The idea is to bridge divides by talking and engaging rather than dissociating. Because the participants are randomly chosen, every session's discussion is different and it is unknown to what exent the participants will be "divided" if at all. Reservation required. ====S: Saving Lives Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-HungaryPavilion.jpg|thumb|Hungary Pavilion]] * '''Commons C''' (S01) - Feaures exhibits from Croatia, Gabon, Guatemala, Israel, Montenegro, Panama, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Uruguay. Has a Gabon restaurant. * '''Chile''' (S02) - Mostly empty room with weavings on the ceiling. * '''Tunisia''' (S03) - Makes good use of the small pavilion with projections and the opportunity to have your name written in Arabic, inscribe your name on a plate, or get handmade pottery from the man outside. Has a restaurant. * '''Cambodia''' (S04) - Recreates parts of a stone temple with a replica of Angkor Wat in the center. * '''Algeria''' (S05) - A video with an AI child. * '''Baltic''' (Latvia and Lithuania) (S06) - Medicinal herbs from these countries and art featuring their mascot. Estonia did not participate. * '''European Union''' (S07) - Has a machine-tended zen rock garden and colorful flower and origami exhibits. * '''Belgium''' (S08) Free Biscoff cookie when entering. Focuses on Belgium's importance in medical innovation and technology. * '''Italy and the Holy See''' (S09) - The theme is "Art Regenerates Life". The Italian part features authentic paintings and sculptures from Michaelangelo, pages from the Da Vinci Codex, Olympic Torches. The 16th century painting "Portrait of Ito Mancio" by Domenico Tintoretto commemorates the first diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. The Vatican contributed Caravaggio's painting "The Deposition" (also commonly called "The Entombment of Christ"), which depicts Christ being laid on th Anointing Stone by Nocodemus, John, and holy women. It is considered to be Caravaggio's best work. Although the authentic artwork is the highlight, the pavilion also features videos, Italian craftwork, modern inventions, and a rooftop garden. This is the most popular pavilion at the Expo. Reservations are available but not required. Without a reservation, expect 3+ hour wait on weekdays and 4+ hour wait on weekends. Has a restaurant. * '''Singapore''' (S11) - Focused around dreams, it's an interactive exhibit that allows you to write down your dream and then move into the projection dome where your dream will appear to help build the city. * '''Bulgaria''' (S12) - In Japan, Bulgaria is synonymous with yogurt in the most literal sense; "Bulgaria" is the name of a popular yogurt brand. Bulgaria introduced yogurt to Japan at the 1970 Expo. Because of this association, the pavilion uses yogurt and its bacteria as the base from which to introduce ideas about different cultures working together for the betterment of society like the good yogurt bacteria does in the human body. There is also a video where you can see the wishes of those who previously visited and you can use the QR code in the pavilion to write your own wishes for the next groups to read. English tours at 18:00 each day, arrive a few minutes early and tell the staff (do not get in the queue if you are doing the English tour). * '''Netherlands''' (S13) - Carrying a glowing orb as your guide, you'll learn about the history of the Netherlands' relationship with its waterways, from hardships to modern innovations intended to harness its power. Reservations required after 11:00. * '''Commons D''' (S14) - Features exhibits from Antigua and Barbuda, Cameroon, Cuba, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Honduras, Laos, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Mongolia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Tajikistan, Togo, Burkina Faso, Belize, and Bhutan * '''Oman''' (S15) - Projection mappings and a video. Has a restaurant. * '''Hungary''' (S16) - Local flora and a concert by a folk singer. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons E''' (S17) - Features art exhibits. * '''Poland''' (S20) - Flower projections and art made with traditional Polish goods. * '''Romania''' (S21) A video, live performance, and exhibits of traditional woodwork and handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''United Kingdom''' (S22) - Themed around dreams as "building blocks", follows a block mascot and daughter talking to her father in the UK. Features an interactive game. Has a restaurant. * '''Angola''' (S23) Opened in late June, the pavilion features a video story about a girl with malaria that promotes a future where modern medicine without devaluing traditional medicine. After that, you can listen to different people speak about various topics. Has a restaurant. ====C: Connecting Lives Zone==== [[File:韓国 パビリオン.jpg|thumb|Korea Pavilion]] * '''Nepal''' (C01) (not open as of June 2025) * '''Luxembourg''' (C02) - A video about life in Luxembourg, exhibits about Luxembourg as "the heart of Europe" * '''Germany''' (C03) - Carrying a light-up mascot of the pavilion, it will guide you in the language of your choice (Japanese, English, or German). The pavilion focuses on sustainability and solving modern problems, such as what to do with abandoned city housing. Roll your mascot down a chute to exit the pavilion. * '''Korea''' (C04) - A sound and light show, green energy art displays, and video * '''Commons F''' (C05) - Features exhibits from Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Brunei Darussalam * '''Azerbaijan''' (C07) - Arguably one of the most beautiful from the outside with its white arches and wooden ethnic dancers that spin over water between each arch, inside there is a rather long video followed by a hall of cultural objects from the country. Has a restaurant. * '''Monaco''' (C10) - Consists of 3 separate buildings, the first featuring a video of Monaco's culture, sensory touching, and a tacky VR experience. The others are located along an outside path with small gardens and interactive play spaces. They feature a maritime protection building with an attractive central pillar and projections and another small building with touch panels to learn more about the country. Has a wine bar. * '''Turkey''' (C11) - The main intrigue is the illuminated sun and moon, the sun representing Japan and the moon representing Turkey. The outside Turkish ice cream and Turkish food vendor are more popular than the pavilion itself. * '''Thailand''' (C12) - After a video introduction, the exhibits focus on food. Reservations for Thai massages can be made. Has a restaurant. * '''Spain''' (C13) - Exhibits about the ocean followed by a vibrant orange room with some postcards. * '''Saudi Arabia''' (C14) - Arabian architecture, multiple buildings with different exhibits and a central area where performances and demonstrations are held. Project-mapping is done of the buildings at night. Has a cafe. * '''Australia''' (C15) - Recreates a forest with video representations of local animals appearing in the trees. * '''Indonesia''' (C16) - A Sumatran forest with unique animals scattered about, a thoughtful video, and authentic blades from various ethnic groups * '''India''' (C17) - The pavilion was built to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of Enlightenment. Inside there are videos about Indian innovations along with Indian cultural objects. * '''Uzbekistan''' (C18) - Introduces the culture of the country before taking you to the roof which utilizes the same wood as the Grand Ring in its own unique design. * '''Serbia''' (C19) - "Understanding through play" is the theme, so it features a variety of interactive exhibits. * '''Bangladesh''' (C20) - Various objects around the room with a video in the back. * '''Senegal''' (C21) - Words on the wall about the country and a shop. * '''Egypt''' (C22) - Video projections of famous Egyptian sites. * '''Commons B''' (C23) - Features exhibits from Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Guyana, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Djibouti, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Somalia, Tanzania, Chad, Central African Republic, Tuvalu, Dominica, Nauru, Haiti, Paraguay, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Benin, Micronesia, Mauritania, and Lesotho. ====F: Forest of Tranquility==== [[File:Expo2025静けさの森、中心部の池.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Forest of Tranquility]] An attractive forest with paths for visitors to explore in the center of the inner ring. It consists of trees that were scheduled for thinning from Expo 70 Commemoration Park in [[Suita]] along with trees transplanted from other parks around Osaka Prefecture, including Osaka Castle Park. For passport stamp collectors, the Forest of Tranquility is one of the only venues that does not have a stamp. This is on purpose; frantic stamp collecting is neither relaxing nor tranquil. ===Outside the Grand Ring=== The following are venues located outside the grand ring representing Japan with the Japan Pavilion, Kansai Pavilion, and 12 Japanese megacorps pavilions, along with other non-country pavilions, such as the Women's Pavilion. These are typically highlights of the exposition, with Bandai's GUNDAM Pavilion guaranteed to draw crowds. They are well worth visiting but nearly all require reservations, so temper your expectations. You'll need multiple days with lots of lottery luck if you plan to enter more than just a few. ====E: East Gate Zone==== * '''Kansai''' (E01) Features some of the traditional prefectures that make up Kansai ([[Shiga]], [[Mie]], [[Wakayama (prefecture)|Wakayama]], [[Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]], [[Hyogo]], along with [[Tottori (prefecture)|Tottori]], [[Fukui (prefecture)|Fukui]], and [[Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima]]. Each prefecture has its own exhibition space branching off from the center. There is a [[Nara (prefecture)|Nara]] stamp for collectors however, Nara does not have an exhibition space. Osaka is not featured because the Expo is in Osaka and one hope of the pavilion is to inspire visitors to explore other prefectures. The exhibitions and features change throughout the festival, but the overall experience is similar: **Shiga: A 20 minute video with floating ball art. **Mie: Walk through a tunnel with projection-mappings of prefectural beauty followed by interactive exhibits where you can open doors and turn flaps to see and learn about famous places, objects, products, animals, and nature from the prefecture. **Wakayama: Large taiko drums for performances. **Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]]: Features local lacquerware art and products. **Hyogo: A video of prefectural highlights **Tottori: Using a magnifying glass, as a nod to Detective Conan whose creator is from [[Hokuei]], you first walk on sand from the Tottori Sand Dunes to find and learn about various things from the prefecture followed by a projection-mapping show over the sand. **Fukui: Using digital flashlights, you can find dinosaur fossils and then shine your light on Fukui dinosaurs, such as Fukuititan and Fukuiraptors, as they move around you. **Tokushima: Known for its indigo dyes, visitors can dip a thread into indigo dye and tie it to a traditional drying rack. There are also some cultural objects and a few interaction displays that you can feel and smell. Reservation required. * '''Osaka Healthcare''' (E02) - Has information about Japanese innovations in healthcare, demonstrations of a self-washer (an updated one from that which was featured at the 1970s Expo), and a body scan that creates an AI version of you and tells you where your health will likely take you in 2050. Reservations required, different reservations exist for regular entry versus regular entry plus the 2050 avatar experience. * '''NTT''' (E03) - Starts with a 3-D glasses video of the music group Perfume singing followed by a video show using the bodies of those in the room. Outside there are old-fashioned phones inside phone booths that play various sounds when you dial the numbers. Reservation required (outside phones can be used by anyone). * '''Mitsubishi''' (E05) - A video. Reservation required. * '''Panasonic Group - The Land of Nomo''' (E06) - Walk through with a crystal that you can use to interact with various exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Sumitomo''' (E07) - With the theme "The Unknown Forest", it begins with a video that sets the tone and setting of the forest before visitors are able to explore the unknown forest themselves on a walk with hand-held lanterns. Reservation required. * '''Electric Power - Eggs of Possibilities''' (E08) - Walk through the pavilion holding a glowing egg. There is a light show as well as interactive exhibits, some of which require use of your egg. Reservation required. * '''Women's Pavilion in Collaboration with Cartier''' (E09) - Using an audio guide (English option available), visitors are randomly separated into three groups to follow the story of one of three women before reuniting to read timelines of recent achievements by women, improvements in laws protecting women, and female firsts. Lastly, there is a room with various people (including men) with holes in their chests that you reach into to hear their stories. Reservations possible but not required. * '''Japan''' (E10) - With an attractive architectural design, the building has excellent visual exhibits showcasing Japanese innovations related to sustainability, such as plastic disintegration and algae, including the Hello Kitty algae display that for many became symbols of the Expo alongside the mascot. The pavilion is informative yet also artistic. Non-reservations from 9:00-11:00 and 19:30-21:00, Reservation required during daytime. * '''EXPO Hall "Shining Hat"''' (E11) - Has projection-mapping on the outside at night. * '''EXPO National Day Hall "Ray Garden"''' (E12) - A National Day is held for each country participating in the Expo. This is where they hold those performances. Nearly every day is a "national day". Visitors can check the website to see if their visit day coincides with a National Day that interests them. * '''Gallery EAST''' (E13) - A small showcase of paintings and cultural objects. ====W: West Gate Zone==== * '''Tech World (Taiwan)''' (W02) - Taiwan is not permitted to have a pavilion under its name, so in spite of the name "Tech World", this is Taiwan's pavilion. It features a projection-mapping about its nature and information about its technology with a focus on IC chips. * '''Gas Pavilion Obake Wonderland''' (W03) - "Ghost Wonderland". With a VR headset, you become a ghost and can interact with your surroundings as you navigate the world. Lessons about human waste manifest in the CO2 monster that must be destroyed. Popular with children. Reservation required. * '''Iida Group''' (W04) - Videos and models of their vision of future Smart Homes surrounded by circles (much like the Grand Ring) that contain grocery stores, shopping malls, and other necessities and entertainment for those in the apartments. * '''ORA Gaishoku''' (W05) - A dining facility showcasing Osaka foods. It contains a variety of Japanese cultural objects including an entire float from the Nebuta Festival in [[Aomori]]. * '''Blue Ocean Dome''' (W06) - Follow water droplets through a Pythagorean device also known as a Rube Goldberg machine-style contraption followed by a video. Reservation required. * '''Gundam NEXT Future''' (W07) - Uses videos to make you feel like you're inside a Gundam looking out during a battle. Reservation required. * '''Pasona Natureverse''' (W09) - Utilizes Astro Boy, a former vision of the future, to introduce a "Neo-Astro Boy", with exhibits about life-giving medicine. One of the highlights is a real lab-grown beating heart made from IPS cells. The Astro Boy statue sitting on the building is a popular photo op. * '''Yoshiimoto waraii myraii''' (W10) - Described as a waste of space by adults, children enjoy rolling down the slopes on the outside. * '''EXPO Exhibition Center "WASSE"''' (W11) - A space that is used for events, gatherings, and limited-time exhibitions. ====L: Future Life Zone==== The Future Life Village houses most of the featured sites, so they are more like booths or areas rather than individual pavilions. Most exhibits in this area are scheduled to change monthly, so there isn't a set experience and those who have visited before can have a different experience if they visit in a different month. * '''Gallery West''' (L01) - Has a small indoor display and VR experience and an outdoor space that is used for events throughout the expo. * '''Future Life Experience''' (L02) - Exhibits of how culture, food, and healthcare may look in the future. * '''Team Expo''' (L03) - Focuses on promoting people to take action in their lives on goals set for the future. * '''Mobility Experience''' (L04) - The launching and landing place of the advanced mobility aircraft. * '''Future City''' (L05) - A virtual experience of "The City of Happiness" which is set up much like the expo with a ring around central apartments and restaurants, shops, and a park located on the ring and around the buildings to create a small, self-contained living space with all of one's essentials very close by. * '''Expo Arena "Matsuri"''' (L06) - A large open space with a central stage for concerts and large events. * '''Junior SDG Camp''' (L07) - The actual Junior SDGs Camp is for schools however for stamp collectors, this one is stamped via an 11.5kg concrete weight. * '''Expo Sauna "Taiyo's Tsubomi"''' (L08) - Described as an "experimental sauna ritual", it utilizes heat from the sun to create the sauna's heat. The "ritual" comes from the way you use it. A guide takes visitors through each of the sauna's experiences in the order you're meant to use them. Scents and sounds are used, and the facilities come with instructions, such as a bath where you are to submerge at least up to your ears in order to experience not just the bath but also the sounds that are meant to have soothing effects. Only 100 people can enter per day. ==Do== [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/events/ Numerous events] big and small are held during the Expo. The most easily accessible is the '''One World, One Planet''' show, a synchronized show of sound, lighting and projection mapping across the entire venue, held daily after sunset. ==Buy== Expo is [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/cashless/ cashless], and all payments on site must be made by card or electronic money. [[File:Myaku-Myaku Expo 2025 (best mascot ever).jpg|thumb|Myaku-Myaku]] The '''Expo 2025 Official Store''' has an East Gate and a West Gate shop so whichever is your entrypoint, you will be near a gift shop. You can buy '''Expo passports''' at these shops and they contain the widest variety of goods. Maps of the Expo must also be purchased at information centers near the entrances. The Expo's official mascot is '''Myaku-Myaku''' (ミャクミャク), a bizarre cross between a multi-eyed amoeba and a donut. Gift shops are featured throughout the site, including by the gates, which feature the mascot as many different products. There are also many corporate collaborations featuring the mascot, such as Sanrio characters in a costume of the mascot. Many country pavilions have small gift shops retailing local products, and you can pick up corporate merchandise at most of the company pavilions. ==Eat== Many pavilions will have places to eat featuring their own nation's foods. There are also scattered food trucks, tents, and food courts. The convenience store prices are the same as outside and some of the restaurants, such as ramen restaurants, are comparably reasonable. Most restaurants and international cuisine have highly inflated "Expo prices", so visitors hoping to enjoy foreign foods should expect to pay more. The '''ORA Gaishoku''' in the West Gate Zone (''see above'') is a pavilion that is entirely a dining facility, featuring Osaka cuisine. The area around it also has other restaurants such as a pizzeria and the African restaurant, PANAF. The '''Kura-zushi''' is particularly popular. Conveyer-belt sushi was actually first introduced at Osaka's 1970s Expo, so it was een as fitting to include it upon the Expo's return to the city. The highlight at this Expo is that it features sushi with foods and flavors from over 70 countries, all of which are participating in the Expo. There are 338 seats, making it the largest Kura-zushi restaurant. Reservations are required. A visitor poll actually showed that '''bento's from home''' were the most popular food to eat. When it comes to bringing food and drinks, the food can stay in your bags and be run through the x-rays as normal. Drinks need to be removed from your bags and shown to the security staff at the entrance. If your drink is sealed, you can go through easily. If it is not sealed, they may have you drink some in front of them to prove it is a beverage. They have the authority to confiscate drinks that they deem suspicious, but this is not an issue for most people, and if it does occur, you can purchase drinks at vending machines or convenience stores inside the Expo. ==Drink== There are vending machines throughout the Expo and convenience stores to get drinks to stay hydrated. For alcohol, some country pavilions have their own local beers and wines. Most sit-down restaurants in the pavilion have some alchohol on offer. In addition, there are fun non-alcoholic but exotic drinks not typically available in Japan, such as camel milk at the UAE Pavilion and baobab juice at the African Restaurant, Panaf. ==Sleep== There is no lodging available on site, but it's located in [[Osaka]], which has a wide variety of hotels. Reserve as early as possible. {{guideevent}} {{PartOfTopic|Calendar of events and festivals|Japan}} 2xgajt3m2tybwt9kytuj72e5kup5m7o 5091401 5091398 2025-07-11T11:56:32Z ChubbyWimbus 109402 /* Tickets */ 5091401 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Grand Ring, Expo 2025 banner.jpg}} '''Expo 2025''' (大阪・関西万博 ''Osaka-Kansai Banpaku'') is the site of the [[World's Fair]] for 2025 in [[Osaka]], [[Japan]]. It will run for 6 months from April 13, 2025 until October 13, 2025. ==Understand== [[File:EXPO2025_null2_Appearance.jpg|thumb|null² Pavilion]] Osaka-Kansai 2025 is Japan's third Universal Exposition after Expo '70, also held in Osaka, and [[Expo 2005]] near [[Nagoya]]. The official theme is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". 28 million visitors are projected to attend the exposition, which is spread across 155 hectares on the artificial island of Yumeshima (夢洲, "Dream Island") in the [[Osaka/Bay Area|Bay Area]] district of Osaka. After the Expo is over, Yumeshima will see a different type of dream or nightmare come to life, as Japan's first casino is set to open here in 2030. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/ Event website] ==Before you go== ===Tickets=== Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. You cannot enter the Expo without a pre-purchased ticket. Even if you have a season pass or the full expo pass, you must still apply for a time slot each day you will visit. If you arrive without a ticket for that day, you will be asked to apply on the spot and there is a high chance that the early hours will already be fully booked. When you buy your ticket online, you will need to choose the date, entry time, and gate. You must enter from the gate that you selected. If you are arriving at Yumeshima Station, the East Gate is closest. If you are arriving by car or by bus, the West Gate is closer. There is a walking course between each gate, so you can still enter, but you'll have a 15-20 minute walk if you choose the gate furthest from your entry point. Tickets are QR codes. It is possible to print it yourself beforehand and bring it, but most visitors are expected to use their phones. It is recommended to take a screenshot of your QR Code ticket in case for some reason you cannot access the app or website when you arrive. ===Cashless only=== The Expo is completely '''cashless'''. You will not be able to purchase anything, including water in the scorching heat, with cash, so bring a credit card, have online payment methods such as Pay-Pay, or buy a prepaid card and charge it with plenty of money ahead of time. If your card requires a PIN in order to use, you can make purchases at all venues but the vending machines may not accept your card (drinks can still be bought at one of the convenience stores). ===What to bring=== You can bring food and drinks into the Expo, so if you're worried about costs or don't want to waste time in lines for restaurants or convenience stores, you can buy food ahead of time. You'll get through security faster if your drinks still have the seal on them (see "Eat" section). Sun umbrellas, hand-held fans, neck towels, sunscreen, hats, or any other ways to keep the sun and sweat at bay are highly recommended. From the summer to the end of the Expo, temperatures and humidity are expected to remain high. Many pavilions require you to line up and wait, sometimes for 2+ hours, in the sun with no shade. If you are not prepared, it can be less fun at best and put your health at risk at worst. If you forget or realize that conditions are worse than what you thought, you can buy most of these items at the Expo however, you may waste time in queues to get them and they may cost a lot more. ===Bags and luggage storage=== Only bring what you need and are willing to carry to the Expo. Although the Expo technically has limited luggage storage, they purposefully priced it at an outrageous 10,000 yen to discourage people from bringing luggage (only 100 are accepted even at that price anyway). If you have a hotel, leave all non-essentials there. If you need to store luggage, there are temporary luggage storage facilities for the Expo at Bentencho Station and Sakurajima Station, open from 7:00 to 23:00. If you choose to use these, make sure you arrive to get your luggage before 23:00. You cannot leave your luggage overnight. '''All bags and luggage that is unclaimed after 23:00 will be discarded'''. They offer a service to send it to your hotel for 1500 yen. If you can find a coin locker at a station that is convenient for you, it will be cheaper than using these facilities and you can retrieve it the following day for an additional fee. Just be sure if you are leaving Osaka that you can get your bags in time to catch a train to your next destination since the Expo ends quite late. ==Get in== {{mapframe|zoom=14}} {{main|Osaka#Get in}} Visitors to the Expo will generally arrive via Japan's second largest city [[Osaka]], which is a well-connected major travel hub served by [[Kansai International Airport]] ({{IATA|KIX}}) and the JR Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train from [[Tokyo]]. See [[Osaka#Get in]] for the details. Once in Osaka, the Expo site is best accessed via {{marker|type=go|name=Yumeshima Station|wikidata=Q60987816}} (夢洲駅) on the Metro Chuo Line from central Osaka. There are also direct shuttle buses from Kansai and Itami airports as well as major train stations including Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen connections), Osaka and Namba. See [https://www.transport.expo2025.or.jp/en the official transport site] for schedules. Upon arriving, make sure you queue up at the gate that you When you get to the Expo, you will be asked to go through a scanner similar to you would at an airport. You need to remove any drinks from your bags to be checked. Once you are through security, you must present your QR Code ticket. A screenshot of your QR code ticket also suffices. ==Get around== Walking is the primary way to get around. Skateboards, scooters, roller skates, etc. are banned from being brought into the Expo. There is a bus that circles the Expo and stops near various points that requires a reservation in order to use. ==See== During the Expo, adult one-day ticket options include &yen;7500 for an unlimited full day ticket, &yen;6000 weekday tickets valid from 11:00, and &yen;3700 for "night tickets" valid from 17:00 on the ticket, but you can enter from 16:00. Discounted senior, student and group tickets are also available. There are also a Season Pass giving unlimited entry for &yen;30,000 and a Summer Pass allowing entry every day between 19th Jul and 31st Aug for &yen;12,000. Access both to the Expo and the pavilions requires signing up for a free "ExpoID". Once you have registered, you can purchase tickets at [https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ the official site], make a reservation for an entry time, and apply for reservations/lottery tickets to enter individual pavilions. The sheer size of the Expo means that it is impossible to cover everything in one day, and access to some of the more popular events and pavilions is capacity controlled with several rather convoluted systems. Allow at least two days if you wish to visit all pavilions of interest. It is wise to choose in advance which of the high-profile sites you want to visit and get them reserved early, then fill in the gaps with the more low-key attractions. Lines tend to shorten as the Expo approaches closing time, although if you cut it too close you run the risk of not getting in at all. * [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/private_pavilion/ Full list]. ===Grand Ring=== [[File:Oyane-ring southeast.jpg|thumb|The Grand Ring]] The {{marker|type=see|name=Grand Ring|wikidata=Q133959805}} is a 2 km timber structure and walkway that rises to a height of 20 metres. One of the world's largest wooden structures, it offers views of the entire exhibition area. People can walk freely under the ring, which has benches, vending machines, and a few shops. It also provides respite from summer heat and rain. Some pavilions located along the perimeter, such as Bulgaria and Italy, have their queues under the ring. The top of the ring can be accessed by a handful of escalators scattered around its perimeter or by stairs which can also be used in case of emergency. At the center of the exhibition area within the Grand Ring, [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/official-participant/ over 100 countries] have their own pavilions along with the Signature Pavilions. There are five "commons" buildings, which house multiple countries who don't have their own pavilions. They are scattered throughout the Grand Ring and its sections. The following zones are located within the Grand Ring. They include the pavilion number for easy map-checking as the official maps use the numbers. ====P: Empowering Lives Zone==== [[File:EXPO 2025 America Pavilion.jpg|thumb|USA Pavilion]] * '''Ireland''' (P01) - The building is designed to represent the Irish triskele. Inside there is a scent area where you can smell Irish plants, an exhibit about Lafcadio Hearn who was part Irish, and Irish folk music performances. * '''Malaysia''' (P02) - Begins with colorful cultural displays of foods from each region of the country followed by exhibits about the future. A highlight is the central tree made from traditional handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons A''' (P03) Features exhibits and shops of Barbados, Bolivia, Burundi, Comoros, Eswatini, Ghana, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritius, North Macedonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Suriname, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Tonga, Uganda, Vanuatu, and Yemen * '''Jordan''' (P04) - Has videos of culture and tourist attractions, musical stones, and 22 tons of sand from [[Wadi Rum]] that visitors can walk on and touch. Although it is one of the small pavilions, the sand and interactive experiences have made it very popular. Waiting times can go past 2 hours. * '''Peru''' (P05) - Video about the history and culture followed by cultural object displays. * '''Advanced Air Mobility''' (p07) - A video about air mobility. Reservation required. * '''Mozambique''' (P08) - Video followed by displays of cultural objects. * '''Philippines''' (P09) - "Woven" is the theme, and the exterior features woven hammocks. Inside, there are weavings, and you can dance around as an AI plant. * '''United States'''(P11) - A star mascot and catchy theme song guide you through scenes from around the country before leading into exhibits about American space innovations. The theme song is in English for the English tours and in Japanese for Japanese tours. Chinese tours are also available twice per day. Has a restaurant. * '''France''' (P12) - An exhibit that alternates Louis Vuitton art installations and authentic Rodin hand sculptures. The odd combination of vapid consumerism and deep cultural heritage somehow manages to feel coherent and impressive. Has a restaurant. * '''Robot and Mobility''' (P14) - Showcases drones, cars, etc. with occasional demonstrations. * '''Vietnam''' (P15) - Small, with clothing, a recreated temple, and other objects and information. At certain times they perform traditional museum with the instruments on display. * '''Qatar''' (P17) - Designed to represent the nation's dhows, the inner exhibits also feature the country's relationship with the sea. * '''United Arab Emirates''' (P18) - Features giant pillars made of date palm trees, information is scattered about the spacious room with 3 rotating videos featured in the back. Has a restaurant. * '''Canada'''(P19) - Walk through ice bergs and other exhibits with a handheld VR tablet that will show various scenes of Canada when you point them at the physical objects. * '''Portugal''' (P20) - Themed around the ocean and the need to take better care of it. * '''Colombia''' (P21) - Butterfly lights on the ceiling guide you through the pavilion to view the actual typewriter used by Gabriel Garcia Martez to write the novel One Hundred Years of Solitude, a circle of objects from the country that you can touch, and an information room. Has a restaurant. * '''Switzerland''' (P22) - You can say your wish for the "future society" into a microphone and create a real bubble that takes your wish upwards * '''Austria''' (P23) - Video of musical history and musical touchscreens. * '''Brazil''' (P26) - Art installation in the main building featuring inflatables, exhibits about the country and paints available for you to paint tribal patterns on your face or hands. * '''Kuwait''' (P27) - Contains a video of a futuristic vision of the country and actual sand brought from the dessert that you can touch and compare to sand you've felt in Japan or elsewhere. * '''China''' (P28) - Animated videos of Chinese culture in a traditional painting-style and replicas of cultural treasures. * '''International Organizations Pavilion''' (P29) - World Expo Museum, ITER project, ASEAN * '''United Nations''' (P30) - History of the UN, how the UN effects people's lives, a video, and a shop. * '''Red Cross and Red Crescent''' (P31) - A video and information about what the organization does. * '''Bahrain''' (P34) - Contains a variety of objects made by craftsman and cultural objects. * '''Turkmenistan''' (P35) - Has a video about the country followed by some cultural objects. The colorful building featuring a white horse is considered to be one of the most eye-catching at the Expo. * '''Nordic''' (Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) (P36) - A glorified lounge; lots of space, not much to see. Has a restaurant. * '''Malta''' (P37) - Features videos of Malta's history and 3 authentic samurai armor suits gifted to Malta by Fukuzawa Yukichi in 1862 that have not been on display since they put in storage for safety during WWII. * '''Czech Republic''' (P38) - Built with materials from the Czech Republic, such as spruce and Bohemian glass. Artwork lines the walls and art using the glass is also featured. ====X: Signature Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-DYNAMIC EQUILIBRIUM OF LIFE-pavilion.jpg|thumb|Dynamic Equilibrium of Life Pavilion]] * '''Better Co-Being''' (X01) - An open-air exhibit of various art installations intended to bring people closer together, the daytime experience feels more in touch with nature while the nighttime experience feels more otherworldy. Reservation required. * '''Future of Life''' (X02) - Gives history of projecting life onto objects ending in robots and AI from where it introduces ideas of a future in which robots and humans live among each other. It follows the mental struggle of an elderly woman who must decide between dying a natural death or placing her memories inside a robot as a gift to her granddaughter so that she can continue to interact with "her" even after she passes. It posing questions about what is life and what does it mean to be human. It ends with robots emerging from peach-like structures, meant to evoke the Momotaro folktale, where you can see their expressions up close as they move and gesture towards you to show that robots are already capable of invoking emotion and response from you to further push visitors to confront discomforts surrounding robots. Reservation required. * '''Jellyfish Pavilion''' (X03) - A fun pavilion to relax in; it's especially pretty at night when it's lit up. * {{see | name=OCHIAI Yoichi's Signature Pavilion "Forging Lives" null² | alt=X04 | url=https://expo2025.digitalnatureandarts.or.jp/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q134286794 | lastedit=2025-05-27 | content= Has two completely different experiences. The Installation tour is a 10 minute sound and visual art display. The Dialogue tour creates an AI version of you that you can communicate with and it will replicate you. Reservation required. }} * '''Dynamic Equilibrium of Life''' (X05) - The "dynamic equilibrium" is defined as "a system that is in constant change yet is balanced as a whole". This concept is artfully illustrated through a narrated (Japanese and English) light show. Reservation required. * '''Live Earth Journey: Totality of Life''' (X06) - A virtual reality experience. Reservation required. * '''Earth Mart''' (X07) - Attempts to show how we can eat sutainably through projections and a variety of interactive exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Dialogue of Theater''' (X08) - One participant is chosen from the crowd to engage in a dialogue with someone on video from elsewhere in Japan. Each of the 184 days of the Expo, the question that the two people must answer and discuss is different. The idea is to bridge divides by talking and engaging rather than dissociating. Because the participants are randomly chosen, every session's discussion is different and it is unknown to what exent the participants will be "divided" if at all. Reservation required. ====S: Saving Lives Zone==== [[File:Expo2025-HungaryPavilion.jpg|thumb|Hungary Pavilion]] * '''Commons C''' (S01) - Feaures exhibits from Croatia, Gabon, Guatemala, Israel, Montenegro, Panama, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Uruguay. Has a Gabon restaurant. * '''Chile''' (S02) - Mostly empty room with weavings on the ceiling. * '''Tunisia''' (S03) - Makes good use of the small pavilion with projections and the opportunity to have your name written in Arabic, inscribe your name on a plate, or get handmade pottery from the man outside. Has a restaurant. * '''Cambodia''' (S04) - Recreates parts of a stone temple with a replica of Angkor Wat in the center. * '''Algeria''' (S05) - A video with an AI child. * '''Baltic''' (Latvia and Lithuania) (S06) - Medicinal herbs from these countries and art featuring their mascot. Estonia did not participate. * '''European Union''' (S07) - Has a machine-tended zen rock garden and colorful flower and origami exhibits. * '''Belgium''' (S08) Free Biscoff cookie when entering. Focuses on Belgium's importance in medical innovation and technology. * '''Italy and the Holy See''' (S09) - The theme is "Art Regenerates Life". The Italian part features authentic paintings and sculptures from Michaelangelo, pages from the Da Vinci Codex, Olympic Torches. The 16th century painting "Portrait of Ito Mancio" by Domenico Tintoretto commemorates the first diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. The Vatican contributed Caravaggio's painting "The Deposition" (also commonly called "The Entombment of Christ"), which depicts Christ being laid on th Anointing Stone by Nocodemus, John, and holy women. It is considered to be Caravaggio's best work. Although the authentic artwork is the highlight, the pavilion also features videos, Italian craftwork, modern inventions, and a rooftop garden. This is the most popular pavilion at the Expo. Reservations are available but not required. Without a reservation, expect 3+ hour wait on weekdays and 4+ hour wait on weekends. Has a restaurant. * '''Singapore''' (S11) - Focused around dreams, it's an interactive exhibit that allows you to write down your dream and then move into the projection dome where your dream will appear to help build the city. * '''Bulgaria''' (S12) - In Japan, Bulgaria is synonymous with yogurt in the most literal sense; "Bulgaria" is the name of a popular yogurt brand. Bulgaria introduced yogurt to Japan at the 1970 Expo. Because of this association, the pavilion uses yogurt and its bacteria as the base from which to introduce ideas about different cultures working together for the betterment of society like the good yogurt bacteria does in the human body. There is also a video where you can see the wishes of those who previously visited and you can use the QR code in the pavilion to write your own wishes for the next groups to read. English tours at 18:00 each day, arrive a few minutes early and tell the staff (do not get in the queue if you are doing the English tour). * '''Netherlands''' (S13) - Carrying a glowing orb as your guide, you'll learn about the history of the Netherlands' relationship with its waterways, from hardships to modern innovations intended to harness its power. Reservations required after 11:00. * '''Commons D''' (S14) - Features exhibits from Antigua and Barbuda, Cameroon, Cuba, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Honduras, Laos, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Mongolia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Tajikistan, Togo, Burkina Faso, Belize, and Bhutan * '''Oman''' (S15) - Projection mappings and a video. Has a restaurant. * '''Hungary''' (S16) - Local flora and a concert by a folk singer. Has a restaurant. * '''Commons E''' (S17) - Features art exhibits. * '''Poland''' (S20) - Flower projections and art made with traditional Polish goods. * '''Romania''' (S21) A video, live performance, and exhibits of traditional woodwork and handicrafts. Has a restaurant. * '''United Kingdom''' (S22) - Themed around dreams as "building blocks", follows a block mascot and daughter talking to her father in the UK. Features an interactive game. Has a restaurant. * '''Angola''' (S23) Opened in late June, the pavilion features a video story about a girl with malaria that promotes a future where modern medicine without devaluing traditional medicine. After that, you can listen to different people speak about various topics. Has a restaurant. ====C: Connecting Lives Zone==== [[File:韓国 パビリオン.jpg|thumb|Korea Pavilion]] * '''Nepal''' (C01) (not open as of June 2025) * '''Luxembourg''' (C02) - A video about life in Luxembourg, exhibits about Luxembourg as "the heart of Europe" * '''Germany''' (C03) - Carrying a light-up mascot of the pavilion, it will guide you in the language of your choice (Japanese, English, or German). The pavilion focuses on sustainability and solving modern problems, such as what to do with abandoned city housing. Roll your mascot down a chute to exit the pavilion. * '''Korea''' (C04) - A sound and light show, green energy art displays, and video * '''Commons F''' (C05) - Features exhibits from Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Brunei Darussalam * '''Azerbaijan''' (C07) - Arguably one of the most beautiful from the outside with its white arches and wooden ethnic dancers that spin over water between each arch, inside there is a rather long video followed by a hall of cultural objects from the country. Has a restaurant. * '''Monaco''' (C10) - Consists of 3 separate buildings, the first featuring a video of Monaco's culture, sensory touching, and a tacky VR experience. The others are located along an outside path with small gardens and interactive play spaces. They feature a maritime protection building with an attractive central pillar and projections and another small building with touch panels to learn more about the country. Has a wine bar. * '''Turkey''' (C11) - The main intrigue is the illuminated sun and moon, the sun representing Japan and the moon representing Turkey. The outside Turkish ice cream and Turkish food vendor are more popular than the pavilion itself. * '''Thailand''' (C12) - After a video introduction, the exhibits focus on food. Reservations for Thai massages can be made. Has a restaurant. * '''Spain''' (C13) - Exhibits about the ocean followed by a vibrant orange room with some postcards. * '''Saudi Arabia''' (C14) - Arabian architecture, multiple buildings with different exhibits and a central area where performances and demonstrations are held. Project-mapping is done of the buildings at night. Has a cafe. * '''Australia''' (C15) - Recreates a forest with video representations of local animals appearing in the trees. * '''Indonesia''' (C16) - A Sumatran forest with unique animals scattered about, a thoughtful video, and authentic blades from various ethnic groups * '''India''' (C17) - The pavilion was built to resemble a lotus flower, a symbol of Enlightenment. Inside there are videos about Indian innovations along with Indian cultural objects. * '''Uzbekistan''' (C18) - Introduces the culture of the country before taking you to the roof which utilizes the same wood as the Grand Ring in its own unique design. * '''Serbia''' (C19) - "Understanding through play" is the theme, so it features a variety of interactive exhibits. * '''Bangladesh''' (C20) - Various objects around the room with a video in the back. * '''Senegal''' (C21) - Words on the wall about the country and a shop. * '''Egypt''' (C22) - Video projections of famous Egyptian sites. * '''Commons B''' (C23) - Features exhibits from Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Guyana, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Djibouti, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Somalia, Tanzania, Chad, Central African Republic, Tuvalu, Dominica, Nauru, Haiti, Paraguay, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Benin, Micronesia, Mauritania, and Lesotho. ====F: Forest of Tranquility==== [[File:Expo2025静けさの森、中心部の池.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Forest of Tranquility]] An attractive forest with paths for visitors to explore in the center of the inner ring. It consists of trees that were scheduled for thinning from Expo 70 Commemoration Park in [[Suita]] along with trees transplanted from other parks around Osaka Prefecture, including Osaka Castle Park. For passport stamp collectors, the Forest of Tranquility is one of the only venues that does not have a stamp. This is on purpose; frantic stamp collecting is neither relaxing nor tranquil. ===Outside the Grand Ring=== The following are venues located outside the grand ring representing Japan with the Japan Pavilion, Kansai Pavilion, and 12 Japanese megacorps pavilions, along with other non-country pavilions, such as the Women's Pavilion. These are typically highlights of the exposition, with Bandai's GUNDAM Pavilion guaranteed to draw crowds. They are well worth visiting but nearly all require reservations, so temper your expectations. You'll need multiple days with lots of lottery luck if you plan to enter more than just a few. ====E: East Gate Zone==== * '''Kansai''' (E01) Features some of the traditional prefectures that make up Kansai ([[Shiga]], [[Mie]], [[Wakayama (prefecture)|Wakayama]], [[Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]], [[Hyogo]], along with [[Tottori (prefecture)|Tottori]], [[Fukui (prefecture)|Fukui]], and [[Tokushima (prefecture)|Tokushima]]. Each prefecture has its own exhibition space branching off from the center. There is a [[Nara (prefecture)|Nara]] stamp for collectors however, Nara does not have an exhibition space. Osaka is not featured because the Expo is in Osaka and one hope of the pavilion is to inspire visitors to explore other prefectures. The exhibitions and features change throughout the festival, but the overall experience is similar: **Shiga: A 20 minute video with floating ball art. **Mie: Walk through a tunnel with projection-mappings of prefectural beauty followed by interactive exhibits where you can open doors and turn flaps to see and learn about famous places, objects, products, animals, and nature from the prefecture. **Wakayama: Large taiko drums for performances. **Kyoto (prefecture)|Kyoto]]: Features local lacquerware art and products. **Hyogo: A video of prefectural highlights **Tottori: Using a magnifying glass, as a nod to Detective Conan whose creator is from [[Hokuei]], you first walk on sand from the Tottori Sand Dunes to find and learn about various things from the prefecture followed by a projection-mapping show over the sand. **Fukui: Using digital flashlights, you can find dinosaur fossils and then shine your light on Fukui dinosaurs, such as Fukuititan and Fukuiraptors, as they move around you. **Tokushima: Known for its indigo dyes, visitors can dip a thread into indigo dye and tie it to a traditional drying rack. There are also some cultural objects and a few interaction displays that you can feel and smell. Reservation required. * '''Osaka Healthcare''' (E02) - Has information about Japanese innovations in healthcare, demonstrations of a self-washer (an updated one from that which was featured at the 1970s Expo), and a body scan that creates an AI version of you and tells you where your health will likely take you in 2050. Reservations required, different reservations exist for regular entry versus regular entry plus the 2050 avatar experience. * '''NTT''' (E03) - Starts with a 3-D glasses video of the music group Perfume singing followed by a video show using the bodies of those in the room. Outside there are old-fashioned phones inside phone booths that play various sounds when you dial the numbers. Reservation required (outside phones can be used by anyone). * '''Mitsubishi''' (E05) - A video. Reservation required. * '''Panasonic Group - The Land of Nomo''' (E06) - Walk through with a crystal that you can use to interact with various exhibits. Reservation required. * '''Sumitomo''' (E07) - With the theme "The Unknown Forest", it begins with a video that sets the tone and setting of the forest before visitors are able to explore the unknown forest themselves on a walk with hand-held lanterns. Reservation required. * '''Electric Power - Eggs of Possibilities''' (E08) - Walk through the pavilion holding a glowing egg. There is a light show as well as interactive exhibits, some of which require use of your egg. Reservation required. * '''Women's Pavilion in Collaboration with Cartier''' (E09) - Using an audio guide (English option available), visitors are randomly separated into three groups to follow the story of one of three women before reuniting to read timelines of recent achievements by women, improvements in laws protecting women, and female firsts. Lastly, there is a room with various people (including men) with holes in their chests that you reach into to hear their stories. Reservations possible but not required. * '''Japan''' (E10) - With an attractive architectural design, the building has excellent visual exhibits showcasing Japanese innovations related to sustainability, such as plastic disintegration and algae, including the Hello Kitty algae display that for many became symbols of the Expo alongside the mascot. The pavilion is informative yet also artistic. Non-reservations from 9:00-11:00 and 19:30-21:00, Reservation required during daytime. * '''EXPO Hall "Shining Hat"''' (E11) - Has projection-mapping on the outside at night. * '''EXPO National Day Hall "Ray Garden"''' (E12) - A National Day is held for each country participating in the Expo. This is where they hold those performances. Nearly every day is a "national day". Visitors can check the website to see if their visit day coincides with a National Day that interests them. * '''Gallery EAST''' (E13) - A small showcase of paintings and cultural objects. ====W: West Gate Zone==== * '''Tech World (Taiwan)''' (W02) - Taiwan is not permitted to have a pavilion under its name, so in spite of the name "Tech World", this is Taiwan's pavilion. It features a projection-mapping about its nature and information about its technology with a focus on IC chips. * '''Gas Pavilion Obake Wonderland''' (W03) - "Ghost Wonderland". With a VR headset, you become a ghost and can interact with your surroundings as you navigate the world. Lessons about human waste manifest in the CO2 monster that must be destroyed. Popular with children. Reservation required. * '''Iida Group''' (W04) - Videos and models of their vision of future Smart Homes surrounded by circles (much like the Grand Ring) that contain grocery stores, shopping malls, and other necessities and entertainment for those in the apartments. * '''ORA Gaishoku''' (W05) - A dining facility showcasing Osaka foods. It contains a variety of Japanese cultural objects including an entire float from the Nebuta Festival in [[Aomori]]. * '''Blue Ocean Dome''' (W06) - Follow water droplets through a Pythagorean device also known as a Rube Goldberg machine-style contraption followed by a video. Reservation required. * '''Gundam NEXT Future''' (W07) - Uses videos to make you feel like you're inside a Gundam looking out during a battle. Reservation required. * '''Pasona Natureverse''' (W09) - Utilizes Astro Boy, a former vision of the future, to introduce a "Neo-Astro Boy", with exhibits about life-giving medicine. One of the highlights is a real lab-grown beating heart made from IPS cells. The Astro Boy statue sitting on the building is a popular photo op. * '''Yoshiimoto waraii myraii''' (W10) - Described as a waste of space by adults, children enjoy rolling down the slopes on the outside. * '''EXPO Exhibition Center "WASSE"''' (W11) - A space that is used for events, gatherings, and limited-time exhibitions. ====L: Future Life Zone==== The Future Life Village houses most of the featured sites, so they are more like booths or areas rather than individual pavilions. Most exhibits in this area are scheduled to change monthly, so there isn't a set experience and those who have visited before can have a different experience if they visit in a different month. * '''Gallery West''' (L01) - Has a small indoor display and VR experience and an outdoor space that is used for events throughout the expo. * '''Future Life Experience''' (L02) - Exhibits of how culture, food, and healthcare may look in the future. * '''Team Expo''' (L03) - Focuses on promoting people to take action in their lives on goals set for the future. * '''Mobility Experience''' (L04) - The launching and landing place of the advanced mobility aircraft. * '''Future City''' (L05) - A virtual experience of "The City of Happiness" which is set up much like the expo with a ring around central apartments and restaurants, shops, and a park located on the ring and around the buildings to create a small, self-contained living space with all of one's essentials very close by. * '''Expo Arena "Matsuri"''' (L06) - A large open space with a central stage for concerts and large events. * '''Junior SDG Camp''' (L07) - The actual Junior SDGs Camp is for schools however for stamp collectors, this one is stamped via an 11.5kg concrete weight. * '''Expo Sauna "Taiyo's Tsubomi"''' (L08) - Described as an "experimental sauna ritual", it utilizes heat from the sun to create the sauna's heat. The "ritual" comes from the way you use it. A guide takes visitors through each of the sauna's experiences in the order you're meant to use them. Scents and sounds are used, and the facilities come with instructions, such as a bath where you are to submerge at least up to your ears in order to experience not just the bath but also the sounds that are meant to have soothing effects. Only 100 people can enter per day. ==Do== [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/events/ Numerous events] big and small are held during the Expo. The most easily accessible is the '''One World, One Planet''' show, a synchronized show of sound, lighting and projection mapping across the entire venue, held daily after sunset. ==Buy== Expo is [https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/cashless/ cashless], and all payments on site must be made by card or electronic money. [[File:Myaku-Myaku Expo 2025 (best mascot ever).jpg|thumb|Myaku-Myaku]] The '''Expo 2025 Official Store''' has an East Gate and a West Gate shop so whichever is your entrypoint, you will be near a gift shop. You can buy '''Expo passports''' at these shops and they contain the widest variety of goods. Maps of the Expo must also be purchased at information centers near the entrances. The Expo's official mascot is '''Myaku-Myaku''' (ミャクミャク), a bizarre cross between a multi-eyed amoeba and a donut. Gift shops are featured throughout the site, including by the gates, which feature the mascot as many different products. There are also many corporate collaborations featuring the mascot, such as Sanrio characters in a costume of the mascot. Many country pavilions have small gift shops retailing local products, and you can pick up corporate merchandise at most of the company pavilions. ==Eat== Many pavilions will have places to eat featuring their own nation's foods. There are also scattered food trucks, tents, and food courts. The convenience store prices are the same as outside and some of the restaurants, such as ramen restaurants, are comparably reasonable. Most restaurants and international cuisine have highly inflated "Expo prices", so visitors hoping to enjoy foreign foods should expect to pay more. The '''ORA Gaishoku''' in the West Gate Zone (''see above'') is a pavilion that is entirely a dining facility, featuring Osaka cuisine. The area around it also has other restaurants such as a pizzeria and the African restaurant, PANAF. The '''Kura-zushi''' is particularly popular. Conveyer-belt sushi was actually first introduced at Osaka's 1970s Expo, so it was een as fitting to include it upon the Expo's return to the city. The highlight at this Expo is that it features sushi with foods and flavors from over 70 countries, all of which are participating in the Expo. There are 338 seats, making it the largest Kura-zushi restaurant. Reservations are required. A visitor poll actually showed that '''bento's from home''' were the most popular food to eat. When it comes to bringing food and drinks, the food can stay in your bags and be run through the x-rays as normal. Drinks need to be removed from your bags and shown to the security staff at the entrance. If your drink is sealed, you can go through easily. If it is not sealed, they may have you drink some in front of them to prove it is a beverage. They have the authority to confiscate drinks that they deem suspicious, but this is not an issue for most people, and if it does occur, you can purchase drinks at vending machines or convenience stores inside the Expo. ==Drink== There are vending machines throughout the Expo and convenience stores to get drinks to stay hydrated. For alcohol, some country pavilions have their own local beers and wines. Most sit-down restaurants in the pavilion have some alchohol on offer. In addition, there are fun non-alcoholic but exotic drinks not typically available in Japan, such as camel milk at the UAE Pavilion and baobab juice at the African Restaurant, Panaf. ==Sleep== There is no lodging available on site, but it's located in [[Osaka]], which has a wide variety of hotels. Reserve as early as possible. {{guideevent}} {{PartOfTopic|Calendar of events and festivals|Japan}} gqwxxirkou4iq9ehn8trsruvebnqi9f 4 208533 5091103 5086534 2025-07-11T00:42:46Z SHB2000 2248002 5091103 wikitext text/x-wiki {{DOTM Banner Archive}} Archived banners for destinations featured on the Main Page in 2025. =[[Medan]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=30%|title=Medan|section=Destination of the Month|section-link=Previous Destinations of the month|image=MedanBanner1.jpg|quote=A melting pot of cultures, Indonesia's fourth city is off the tourist radar for foreigners, but popular among Indonesians especially for its food culture.}} *{{s}} LGTM. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:23, 7 October 2024 (UTC) =[[El Hierro]]= {{banner|direction=left|width=50%|title=El Hierro|section=Off the Beaten Path|section-link=Previously Off the beaten path|image=ElHierroBanner1.jpg|quote=The remotest of the Canary Islands is a place to explore forests and volcanic formations and enjoy the relaxed island lifestyle. }} * {{s}} --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:23, 7 October 2024 (UTC) * '''Support.''' <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:57, 7 January 2025 (UTC) =[[Diving the Cape Peninsula and False Bay/MV Aster]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=40%|title=Diving the Cape Peninsula and False Bay/MV Aster|alt-title=Diving MV Aster|section=Featured Travel Topic|section-link=Previous Featured travel topics|image=AsterBanner1.jpg|quote=The M.V. Aster was scuttled in 1997 the Hout Bay of the Cape Peninsula near Cape Town, as a diver-friendly artificial reef.}} * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:57, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:06, 7 January 2025 (UTC) =[[Recife]]= Banners for our February and March features! --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:16, 9 December 2024 (UTC) :All the banners on this page look good, but are there any alternatives to consider? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 01:20, 27 January 2025 (UTC) {{banner|direction=left|width=40%|title=Recife|section=Destination of the Month|section-link=Previous Destinations of the month|image=RecifeBanner1.jpg|quote=There are many sides to Recife, the city is steeped in colonial history but famed for its urban beaches too.}} * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:58, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:06, 7 January 2025 (UTC) =[[Tezpur]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=50%|title=Tezpur|section=Off the Beaten Path|section-link=Previously Off the beaten path|image=TezpurBanner1.jpg|quote=The venue for a love story involving the grandson of Lord Krishna, don't be surprised to find several shrines and temples in this city on the Brahmaputra.}} * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:58, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:06, 7 January 2025 (UTC) =[[Serbian phrasebook]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=40%|title=Serbian phrasebook|section=Featured Travel Topic|section-link=Previous Featured travel topics|image=SerbianPhrasebookBanner1.jpg|quote=Written in two scripts, Serbian is closely related to other languages in the former Yugoslavia. As such, this phrasebook can be helpful throughout much of the Western Balkans.}} *{{s}} --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB2000</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:46, 9 December 2024 (UTC) * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:59, 7 January 2025 (UTC) =[[El Gouna]]= {{banner|direction=left|width=40%|title=El Gouna|section=Destination of the Month|section-link=Previous Destinations of the month|image=ElGounaBanner1.jpg|quote=This Red Sea resort has some activity for everyone, in an environment that's not just glass, steel and tourists on the coast.}} * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:59, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:06, 7 January 2025 (UTC) =[[Banteay Chhmar]]= Banners for the upcoming articles! --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 17:20, 26 January 2025 (UTC) {{banner|direction=right|width=40%|title=Banteay Chhmar|section=Off the Beaten Path|section-link=Previously Off the beaten path|image=BanteayChhmarBanner1.jpg|quote=Explore the remains of the Khmer Empire in a more low-key setting than at Angkor Wat, while experiencing traditional culture.}} * '''Support''' all. These look excellent. Thank you. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:45, 26 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} LGTM. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:26, 27 January 2025 (UTC) =[[Jewish Stockholm tour]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=55%|title=Jewish Stockholm tour|section=Featured Travel Topic|section-link=Previous Featured travel topics|image=JewishStockholmBanner1.jpg|quote=One of few European capitals to evade the Holocaust has a lively Jewish community, celebrating 250 years as a legal faith and 25 years as a recognized minority.}} * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 16:59, 7 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:07, 7 January 2025 (UTC) =[[Wilmington (North Carolina)]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=45%|title=Wilmington (North Carolina)|alt-title=Wilmington, North Carolina|section=Destination of the Month|section-link=Previous Destinations of the month|image=WilmingtonNCBanner1.jpg|quote=Gardens and plantations meet antebellum architecture and beaches of the Atlantic in the city sometimes nicknamed Wilmywood.}} * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:45, 26 January 2025 (UTC) =[[Khujand]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=50%|title=Khujand|section=Off the Beaten Path|section-link=Previously Off the beaten path|image=KhujandBanner1.jpg|quote=Founded by Alexander the Great and beloved by Lenin, Tajikistan's second city is more than just a base for hiking into the nearby Fann Mountains. }} * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:45, 26 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:03, 3 February 2025 (UTC) =[[Vancouver International Airport]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=45%|title=Vancouver International Airport|section=Featured Travel Topic|section-link=Previous Featured travel topics|image=YVRBanner1.jpg|quote=Canada's main airport on the Pacific is well connected to East Asia. }} * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:45, 26 January 2025 (UTC) =[[Kraków]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=45%|title=Kraków|section=Destination of the Month|section-link=Previous Destinations of the month|image=KrakowBanner1.jpg|quote=With over a thousand years of history and a uniquely well-preserved Old City, Kraków is Poland's top tourist draw for a reason.}} * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:45, 26 January 2025 (UTC) :{{re|SelfieCity|Ypsilon}} Here are two more alternative banners. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:02, 3 February 2025 (UTC) ::Thank you. I think the first alternative banner is my favorite. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 19:09, 3 February 2025 (UTC) * All of them look nice, but why not go with the market hall (alt banner 1) as SC suggested. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 19:19, 3 February 2025 (UTC) *:That's my favourite too. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 21:15, 3 February 2025 (UTC) *::I like the Market Hall Banner. It is over 20 years since I was in Krakow, but this is a view that I remember, and it is more distinctive than the alternatives. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 21:31, 3 February 2025 (UTC) {{banner|direction=right|width=40%|title=Kraków|section=Destination of the Month|section-link=Previous Destinations of the month|image=Kraków alt banner 1.jpg|quote=With over a thousand years of history and a uniquely well-preserved Old City, Kraków is Poland's top tourist draw for a reason.}} {{banner|direction=left|width=40%|title=Kraków|section=Destination of the Month|section-link=Previous Destinations of the month|image=Kraków alt banner 2.jpg|quote=With over a thousand years of history and a uniquely well-preserved Old City, Kraków is Poland's top tourist draw for a reason.}} =[[New England National Park]]= {{banner|direction=left|width=50%|title=New England National Park|section=Off the Beaten Path|section-link=Previously Off the beaten path|image=NewEnglandNatPBanner1.jpg|quote=Visit one of the world's best preserved Gondwana Rainforests in New South Wales with many of New England National Park's hiking trails showcasing exactly that.}} * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:45, 26 January 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:28, 27 January 2025 (UTC) =[[E69]]= {{banner|direction=left|width=35%|title=E69|section=Featured Travel Topic|section-link=Previous Featured travel topics|image=E69Banner1.jpg|quote=European Highway E69 goes through barren landscapes to the world's northernmost point you can reach by car.}} * '''Support'''. <small>--Comment by </small> [[User:SelfieCity|Selfie City]] ([[User_talk:SelfieCity|talk]]) ([[Special:Contributions/SelfieCity|contributions]]) 17:45, 26 January 2025 (UTC) * '''Support'''. At first I had some doubts as the photo shows barriers ahead and it looks like the entrance to a private facility, but I checked on Streetview and it is the end of the route. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 23:46, 26 January 2025 (UTC) *{{ss}} – woah, this is a top-tier banner. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 00:27, 27 January 2025 (UTC) =[[Snowdonia National Park]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=35%|title=Snowdonia National Park|section=Destination of the Month|section-link=Previous Destinations of the month|image=SnowdoniaNatpBanner1.jpg|quote=The stunning landscapes of Snowdon and surroundings can be explored both on foot and by several railways.}} * A banner for Snowdonia. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 15:32, 30 April 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:58, 22 May 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} I like this view. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:25, 25 May 2025 (UTC) =[[Vaals]]= {{banner|direction=left|width=40%|title=Vaals|section=Off the Beaten Path|section-link=Previously Off the beaten path|image=VaalsBanner1.jpg|quote=At the foot of Netherlands' highest point, Vaals is a great example of a Dutch small town, with a weekly market and all! }} *{{s}} //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:58, 22 May 2025 (UTC) =[[Public baths in Japan]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=37%|title=Public baths in Japan|section=Featured Travel Topic|section-link=Previous Featured travel topics|image=PublicBathsInJapanBanner1.jpg|quote=Bathing Japanese style is a pleasure, and a visit to a Japanese hot spring should be on the agenda of every visitor.}} *{{s}} //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:58, 22 May 2025 (UTC) =[[Cuzco]]= {{banner|direction=left|width=37%|title=Cuzco|section=Destination of the Month|section-link=Previous Destinations of the month|image=CuzcoBanner1.jpg|quote=Cuzco is not only a place to immense yourself in Inca history and culture, but also the gateway to the Sacred Valley.}} *{{s}} //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:58, 22 May 2025 (UTC) =[[Forillon National Park]]= {{banner|direction=right|width=43%|title=Forillon National Park|section=Off the Beaten Path|section-link=Previously Off the beaten path|image=ForillonNatpBanner1.jpg|quote=The final Land's End of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape is an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore. }} <s>*{{s}} //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:59, 22 May 2025 (UTC)</s> {{banner|direction=right|width=43%|title=Forillon National Park|section=Off the Beaten Path|section-link=Previously Off the beaten path|image=Forillon National Park OtBP banner.jpg|quote=The final Land's End of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is where the mighty Chic-Choc Mountains collide head-on with the sea. Its unique landscape is an intoxicating juxtaposition of forests, mountains, and shore. }} :{{ping|Ypsilon}} Uploaded another banner. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 04:15, 22 May 2025 (UTC) ::I'm fine with both. --[[User:Ypsilon|Ypsilon]] ([[User talk:Ypsilon|talk]]) 04:22, 22 May 2025 (UTC) : The second one seems to more specifically picture this park. The first one could be from many other places. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 10:10, 22 May 2025 (UTC) *{{s}} The second one.[[User:Veracious|Veracious]] ([[User talk:Veracious|talk]]) 06:33, 1 July 2025 (UTC) e2tv6i5xcnhkbyovepywxneoe4wbd4y 4 208829 5091093 5089964 2025-07-11T00:19:13Z SHB2000 2248002 archive 5091093 wikitext text/x-wiki {{talkarchive}} == Let's Connect Program == Dear all, I hope this topic finds you all well. My name is Gorana Gomirac and I am a part of the [[metawiki:Grants:Knowledge Sharing/Connect/Team|Let’s Connect]] working group. We are a team of 8 who represent: '''Latina America, MENA, South Asia, East, South East Asia, Pacific, Sub-Saharan Africa, Central & Eastern Europe, Northern & Western region'''. If you are interested in participating in [[metawiki:Grants:Knowledge Sharing/Connect|learning clinics]] , I welcome you to fill out this [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdiea87tSYmB2-1XHn_u8RLe7efMJifJBzffIM-6rtpx0PWqw/viewform registration form]. You will gain access to our monthly newsletter, our monthly learning clinics and even become a sharer where you and your community can give a workshop/learning clinic to our fellow Let’s Connectors. We look forward to include more topics about Wikivoyage so please feel free to reach out to us! If you have any questions please email us at <u>letsconnect@wikimedia.org</u> [[User:Gorana Gomirac (VMRS)|Gorana Gomirac (VMRS)]] ([[User talk:Gorana Gomirac (VMRS)|talk]]) 12:59, 9 December 2024 (UTC) == Question about educational projects on Wikivoyage == First, thanks to everyone who has helped over the past few years. The class will return, as usual, in the Fall. In the meantime, I intend to collect feedback I got and revise it into a more formatted guide (at [[User:Hanyangprofessor2]], to be moved to structured subpages), as well as into an academic paper similar to ones I've written in the past ([https://scholar.google.co.kr/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C5&q=konieczny+teaching+with+Wikipedia&btnG= GS]). Feel free to offer any additional feedback, thoughts or comments (when the paper is mostly finished, I'll post a draft here for you to check it out). In the meantime, a question - are you familiar with any other educators running some activities on Wikivoyage? [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 07:17, 6 January 2025 (UTC) :I recall we had Indian students on this site a number of years ago. I think you're the only one now. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 08:23, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ::If I'm not mistaken, the Nigeria + broader African expeditions we had were coordinated through WM Nigeria (or some equivalent group), though I'm not entirely sure how that worked. A few years back we also had an English teacher in France use Wikivoyage as a teaching tool. --<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:47, 6 January 2025 (UTC) :::I used to be a teacher, and I organized a couple of Wikivoyage editing projects for students in 2017. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 14:44, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ::::@[[User:Mx. Granger|Mx. Granger]] You stopped using Wikivoyage because job change or because it wasn't working out? [[User:Piotrus|Piotrus]] ([[User talk:Piotrus|talk]]) 01:12, 7 January 2025 (UTC) :::Right, those were French high school students, as I recall. I didn't remember your educational project, Granger. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 16:07, 6 January 2025 (UTC) ::::Probably –&nbsp;I can't exactly remember, and don't remember who the user was to check :(. <span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">SHB</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 01:50, 7 January 2025 (UTC) :::::{{ping|Piotrus}} Job change. I think the project was fairly successful. In addition to letting the students practice using English in an authentic context, it led to improved coverage of a few destinations in Uruguay. I monitored the students' edits and cleaned up the articles a little afterwards. {{ping|Ikan Kekek}} It was discussed briefly here: [[Talk:Uruguay#Workshop tomorrow]]. —[[User:Mx. Granger|Granger]]&nbsp;([[User talk:Mx. Granger|talk]] '''·''' [[Special:Contributions/Mx. Granger|contribs]]) 04:29, 7 January 2025 (UTC) == Launching! Join Us for Wiki Loves Ramadan 2025! == Dear All, We’re happy to announce the launch of [[m:Wiki Loves Ramadan 2025|Wiki Loves Ramadan 2025]], an annual international campaign dedicated to celebrating and preserving Islamic cultures and history through the power of Wikipedia. As an active contributor to the Local Wikipedia, you are specially invited to participate in the launch. This year’s campaign will be launched for you to join us write, edit, and improve articles that showcase the richness and diversity of Islamic traditions, history, and culture. * Topic: [[m:Event:Wiki Loves Ramadan 2025 Campaign Launch|Wiki Loves Ramadan 2025 Campaign Launch]] * When: Jan 19, 2025 * Time: 16:00 Universal Time UTC and runs throughout Ramadan (starting February 25, 2025). * Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88420056597?pwd=NdrpqIhrwAVPeWB8FNb258n7qngqqo.1 * Zoom meeting hosted by [[m:Wikimedia Bangladesh|Wikimedia Bangladesh]] To get started, visit the [[m:Wiki Loves Ramadan 2025|campaign page]] for details, resources, and guidelines: Wiki Loves Ramadan 2025. Add [[m:Wiki Loves Ramadan 2025/Participant|your community here]], and organized Wiki Loves Ramadan 2025 in your local language. Whether you’re a first-time editor or an experienced Wikipedian, your contributions matter. Together, we can ensure Islamic cultures and traditions are well-represented and accessible to all. Feel free to invite your community and friends too. Kindly reach out if you have any questions or need support as you prepare to participate. Let’s make Wiki Loves Ramadan 2025 a success! → me. For the [[m:Wiki Loves Ramadan 2025/Team|International Team]] 12:08, 16 January 2025 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:ZI Jony@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Non-Technical_Village_Pumps_distribution_list&oldid=27568454 --> == Universal Code of Conduct annual review: provide your comments on the UCoC and Enforcement Guidelines == <div lang="en" dir="ltr" class="mw-content-ltr"> {{Int:Please-translate}}. I am writing to you to let you know the annual review period for the Universal Code of Conduct and Enforcement Guidelines is open now. You can make suggestions for changes through 3 February 2025. This is the first step of several to be taken for the annual review. [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Annual_review|Read more information and find a conversation to join on the UCoC page on Meta]]. The [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee|Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee]] (U4C) is a global group dedicated to providing an equitable and consistent implementation of the UCoC. This annual review was planned and implemented by the U4C. For more information and the responsibilities of the U4C, [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee/Charter|you may review the U4C Charter]]. Please share this information with other members in your community wherever else might be appropriate. -- In cooperation with the U4C, [[m:User:Keegan (WMF)|Keegan (WMF)]] ([[m:User talk:Keegan (WMF)|talk]]) 01:12, 24 January 2025 (UTC) </div> <!-- Message sent by User:Keegan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=27746256 --> == Reminder: first part of the annual UCoC review closes soon == <div lang="en" dir="ltr" class="mw-content-ltr"> {{Int:Please-translate}}. This is a reminder that the first phase of the annual review period for the Universal Code of Conduct and Enforcement Guidelines will be closing soon. You can make suggestions for changes through [[d:Q614092|the end of day]], 3 February 2025. This is the first step of several to be taken for the annual review. [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Annual_review|Read more information and find a conversation to join on the UCoC page on Meta]]. After review of the feedback, proposals for updated text will be published on Meta in March for another round of community review. Please share this information with other members in your community wherever else might be appropriate. -- In cooperation with the U4C, [[m:User:Keegan (WMF)|Keegan (WMF)]] ([[m:User talk:Keegan (WMF)|talk]]) 00:49, 3 February 2025 (UTC) </div> <!-- Message sent by User:Keegan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=28198931 --> == Upcoming Language Community Meeting (Feb 28th, 14:00 UTC) and Newsletter == <section begin="message"/> Hello everyone! [[File:WP20Symbols WIKI INCUBATOR.svg|right|frameless|150x150px|alt=An image symbolising multiple languages]] We’re excited to announce that the next '''Language Community Meeting''' is happening soon, '''February 28th at 14:00 UTC'''! If you’d like to join, simply sign up on the '''[[mw:Wikimedia_Language_and_Product_Localization/Community_meetings#28_February_2025|wiki page]]'''. This is a participant-driven meeting where we share updates on language-related projects, discuss technical challenges in language wikis, and collaborate on solutions. In our last meeting, we covered topics like developing language keyboards, creating the Moore Wikipedia, and updates from the language support track at Wiki Indaba. '''Got a topic to share?''' Whether it’s a technical update from your project, a challenge you need help with, or a request for interpretation support, we’d love to hear from you! Feel free to '''reply to this message''' or add agenda items to the document '''[[etherpad:p/language-community-meeting-feb-2025|here]]'''. Also, we wanted to highlight that the sixth edition of the Language & Internationalization newsletter (January 2025) is available here: [[:mw:Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia Language and Product Localization/Newsletter/2025/January|Wikimedia Language and Product Localization/Newsletter/2025/January]]. This newsletter provides updates from the October–December 2024 quarter on new feature development, improvements in various language-related technical projects and support efforts, details about community meetings, and ideas for contributing to projects. To stay updated, you can subscribe to the newsletter on its wiki page: [[:mw:Wikimedia Language and Product Localization/Newsletter|Wikimedia Language and Product Localization/Newsletter]]. We look forward to your ideas and participation at the language community meeting, see you there! <section end="message"/> <bdi lang="en" dir="ltr">[[User:MediaWiki message delivery|MediaWiki message delivery]]</bdi> 08:30, 22 February 2025 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:SSethi (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=28217779 --> == Universal Code of Conduct annual review: proposed changes are available for comment == <div lang="en" dir="ltr" class="mw-content-ltr"> {{Int:Please-translate}}. I am writing to you to let you know that [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Annual_review/Proposed_Changes|proposed changes]] to the [[foundation:Special:MyLanguage/Policy:Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Enforcement_guidelines|Universal Code of Conduct (UCoC) Enforcement Guidelines]] and [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee/Charter|Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee (U4C) Charter]] are open for review. '''[[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Annual_review/Proposed_Changes|You can provide feedback on suggested changes]]''' through the [[d:Q614092|end of day]] on Tuesday, 18 March 2025. This is the second step in the annual review process, the final step will be community voting on the proposed changes. [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Annual_review|Read more information and find relevant links about the process on the UCoC annual review page on Meta]]. The [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee|Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee]] (U4C) is a global group dedicated to providing an equitable and consistent implementation of the UCoC. This annual review was planned and implemented by the U4C. For more information and the responsibilities of the U4C, [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee/Charter|you may review the U4C Charter]]. Please share this information with other members in your community wherever else might be appropriate. -- In cooperation with the U4C, [[m:User:Keegan (WMF)|Keegan (WMF)]] 18:52, 7 March 2025 (UTC) </div> <!-- Message sent by User:Keegan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=28307738 --> == Wiki Loves Bangla 2025 is on—Come Join Us! == <div style="padding:15px; font-size:100%; margin:10px 0;border: 1px solid #F42A41;background-color: #FFFFFF;"> [[File:Wiki Loves Bangla wordmark logo-en.svg|right|200px|frameless|link=Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025]] Hello All, Greetings from the '''Wiki Loves Bangla Team'''! We are excited to announce that [[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025/en|Wiki Loves Bangla 2025]] is coming soon! This year, the contest theme will focus on '''Birds of Bengal''', inviting participants to capture and share stunning images of Bengal's diverse birdlife. '''Contest Details''' :📅 Dates: '''1 – 31 March 2025''' :📍 Theme: '''Birds of Bengal''' :🎯 Organized by: [[meta:Bangla WikiMoitree|Bangla WikiMoitree]] '''[[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025|Wiki Loves Bangla]]''' is an international photography contest hosted on Wikimedia Commons to document Bengali culture and heritage worldwide. As part of the Bangla Culture and Heritage Collation Program, it is held annually with a specific theme, inviting participants to contribute their photographs to Wikimedia Commons to expand free knowledge. Through this campaign, you can become part of a community dedicated to preserving and showcasing the beauty, behaviour, and biodiversity of Bangla’s birds. This initiative aims to highlight the richness of Bangla’s natural heritage to the world. '''How can I participate?''' The contest runs from '''1 - 31 March 2025''' on Wikimedia Commons. To take part, simply: :📷 Capture photographs of '''Birds of Bengal'''. :📤 Upload your images to Wikimedia Commons under the Wiki Loves Bangla 2025 category. :📖 Learn more about contest rules and guidelines on the [[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025/en#Competition Rules|contest page]]. '''Why participate?''' By contributing, you help in documenting the rich birdlife of Bengal, making knowledge accessible to all. Plus, there are [[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025/en#Prizes|exciting prizes]] to be won! '''Prizes''' : [[File:Simple gold cup.svg|20px]] '''1st prize''': BDT 50,000, crest, and certificate. : [[File:Simple silver cup.svg|20px]] '''2nd prize''': BDT 25,000, crest, and certificate. : [[File:Simple bronze cup.svg|20px]] '''3rd Prize''': BDT 15,000, crest, and certificate. If you are interested in participating in the photography campaign, start photographing and get ready for the photo campaign happening on Wikimedia Commons. For more information about the rules and prizes of the contest, refer [[c:Commons:Wiki Loves Bangla 2025/en|here]]. For any questions, email us or join our telegram group [https://t.me/WikiLovesBangla here]. Warm regards,<br> '''Wiki Loves Bangla Team'''.<br> [[User:Moheen|<span style="text-shadow:#8b9dc3 3px 3px 2px;"><span style:"font-family:'All Things Pink'" color="#3b5998"><b>~ Moheen</b></span></span>]] [[User Talk:Moheen|^{(keep talking)}]] 13:44, 13 March 2025 (UTC) <nowiki>#WikiLovesBangla</nowiki> </div> == Your wiki will be in read-only soon == <section begin="server-switch"/><div class="plainlinks"> [[:m:Special:MyLanguage/Tech/Server switch|Read this message in another language]] • [https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Translate&group=page-Tech%2FServer+switch&language=&action=page&filter= {{int:please-translate}}] The [[foundation:|Wikimedia Foundation]] will switch the traffic between its data centers. This will make sure that Wikipedia and the other Wikimedia wikis can stay online even after a disaster. All traffic will switch on '''{{#time:j xg|2025-03-19|en}}'''. The switch will start at '''[https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/{{#time:U|2025-03-19T14:00|en}} {{#time:H:i e|2025-03-19T14:00}}]'''. Unfortunately, because of some limitations in [[mw:Special:MyLanguage/Manual:What is MediaWiki?|MediaWiki]], all editing must stop while the switch is made. We apologize for this disruption, and we are working to minimize it in the future. A banner will be displayed on all wikis 30 minutes before this operation happens. This banner will remain visible until the end of the operation. '''You will be able to read, but not edit, all wikis for a short period of time.''' *You will not be able to edit for up to an hour on {{#time:l j xg Y|2025-03-19|en}}. *If you try to edit or save during these times, you will see an error message. We hope that no edits will be lost during these minutes, but we can't guarantee it. If you see the error message, then please wait until everything is back to normal. Then you should be able to save your edit. But, we recommend that you make a copy of your changes first, just in case. ''Other effects'': *Background jobs will be slower and some may be dropped. Red links might not be updated as quickly as normal. If you create an article that is already linked somewhere else, the link will stay red longer than usual. Some long-running scripts will have to be stopped. * We expect the code deployments to happen as any other week. However, some case-by-case code freezes could punctually happen if the operation require them afterwards. * [[mw:Special:MyLanguage/GitLab|GitLab]] will be unavailable for about 90 minutes. This project may be postponed if necessary. You can [[wikitech:Switch_Datacenter|read the schedule at wikitech.wikimedia.org]]. Any changes will be announced in the schedule. '''Please share this information with your community.'''</div><section end="server-switch"/> <bdi lang="en" dir="ltr">[[User:MediaWiki message delivery|MediaWiki message delivery]]</bdi> 23:14, 14 March 2025 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:Quiddity (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Non-Technical_Village_Pumps_distribution_list&oldid=28307742 --> :Just a reminder that these events are "for up to an hour", but in recent years, it's usually been "for less than five minutes". Most people won't notice this at all, but if you do, just wait a couple of minutes and try your edit again. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 21:50, 15 March 2025 (UTC) == Final proposed modifications to the Universal Code of Conduct Enforcement Guidelines and U4C Charter now posted == <div lang="en" dir="ltr" class="mw-content-ltr"> The proposed modifications to the [[foundation:Special:MyLanguage/Policy:Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Enforcement_guidelines|Universal Code of Conduct Enforcement Guidelines]] and the U4C Charter [[m:Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Annual_review/2025/Proposed_Changes|are now on Meta-wiki for community notice]] in advance of the voting period. This final draft was developed from the previous two rounds of community review. Community members will be able to vote on these modifications starting on 17 April 2025. The vote will close on 1 May 2025, and results will be announced no later than 12 May 2025. The U4C election period, starting with a call for candidates, will open immediately following the announcement of the review results. More information will be posted on [[m:Special:MyLanguage//Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee/Election|the wiki page for the election]] soon. Please be advised that this process will require more messages to be sent here over the next two months. The [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee|Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee (U4C)]] is a global group dedicated to providing an equitable and consistent implementation of the UCoC. This annual review was planned and implemented by the U4C. For more information and the responsibilities of the U4C, you may [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee/Charter|review the U4C Charter]]. Please share this message with members of your community so they can participate as well. -- In cooperation with the U4C, [[m:User:Keegan (WMF)|Keegan (WMF)]] ([[m:User_talk:Keegan (WMF)|talk]]) 02:05, 4 April 2025 (UTC) </div> <!-- Message sent by User:Keegan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=28469465 --> == Wikidata and Sister Projects: An online community event == ''(Apologies for posting in English)'' Hello everyone, I am excited to share news of an upcoming online event called '''[[d:Event:Wikidata_and_Sister_Projects|Wikidata and Sister Projects]]''' celebrating the different ways Wikidata can be used to support or enhance with another Wikimedia project. The event takes place over 4 days between '''May 29 - June 1st, 2025'''. We would like to invite speakers to present at this community event, to hear success stories, challenges, showcase tools or projects you may be working on, where Wikidata has been involved in Wikipedia, Commons, WikiSource and all other WM projects. If you are interested in attending, please [[d:Special:RegisterForEvent/1291|register here]]. If you would like to speak at the event, please fill out this Session Proposal template on the [[d:Event_talk:Wikidata_and_Sister_Projects|event talk page]], where you can also ask any questions you may have. I hope to see you at the event, in the audience or as a speaker, - [[User:MediaWiki message delivery|MediaWiki message delivery]] ([[User talk:MediaWiki message delivery|talk]]) 09:18, 11 April 2025 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:Danny Benjafield (WMDE)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Danny_Benjafield_(WMDE)/MassMessage_Send_List&oldid=28525705 --> == Vote now on the revised UCoC Enforcement Guidelines and U4C Charter == <div lang="en" dir="ltr" class="mw-content-ltr"> The voting period for the revisions to the Universal Code of Conduct Enforcement Guidelines ("UCoC EG") and the UCoC's Coordinating Committee Charter is open now through the end of 1 May (UTC) ([https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1746162000 find in your time zone]). [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Annual_review/2025/Voter_information|Read the information on how to participate and read over the proposal before voting]] on the UCoC page on Meta-wiki. The [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee|Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee (U4C)]] is a global group dedicated to providing an equitable and consistent implementation of the UCoC. This annual review of the EG and Charter was planned and implemented by the U4C. Further information will be provided in the coming months about the review of the UCoC itself. For more information and the responsibilities of the U4C, you may [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal_Code_of_Conduct/Coordinating_Committee/Charter|review the U4C Charter]]. Please share this message with members of your community so they can participate as well. In cooperation with the U4C -- [[m:User:Keegan (WMF)|Keegan (WMF)]] ([[m:User_talk:Keegan (WMF)|talk]]) 00:35, 17 April 2025 (UTC) </div> <!-- Message sent by User:Keegan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=28469465 --> == Vote on proposed modifications to the UCoC Enforcement Guidelines and U4C Charter == <section begin="announcement-content" /> The voting period for the revisions to the Universal Code of Conduct Enforcement Guidelines and U4C Charter closes on 1 May 2025 at 23:59 UTC ([https://zonestamp.toolforge.org/1746162000 find in your time zone]). [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal Code of Conduct/Annual review/2025/Voter information|Read the information on how to participate and read over the proposal before voting]] on the UCoC page on Meta-wiki. The [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal Code of Conduct/Coordinating Committee|Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee (U4C)]] is a global group dedicated to providing an equitable and consistent implementation of the UCoC. This annual review was planned and implemented by the U4C. For more information and the responsibilities of the U4C, you may [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal Code of Conduct/Coordinating Committee/Charter|review the U4C Charter]]. Please share this message with members of your community in your language, as appropriate, so they can participate as well. In cooperation with the U4C -- <section end="announcement-content" /> <div lang="en" dir="ltr" class="mw-content-ltr"> [[m:User:Keegan (WMF)|Keegan (WMF)]] ([[m:User talk:Keegan (WMF)|talk]]) 03:41, 29 April 2025 (UTC)</div> <!-- Message sent by User:Keegan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=28618011 --> == Commons Notification Deletion bot revived == I am pleased announce, thanks to the rockstar that is @[[User:Taavi|Taavi]], the [[meta:Community Tech/Commons deletion notification bot|Commons Notification Deletion bot]] is finally back up and running! You should start seeing new talk page notifications soon (for eligible deletion discussions that are started ''after'' roughly 15 minutes ago). Pinging @[[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] @[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]] @[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] and @[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] who have been asking for this for a ''very'' long time. I apologize for the ''two years'' of downtime. I am making efforts to ensure the bot stays running and something like this won't happen again. Cheers and happy editing! &mdash; [[User:MusikAnimal|<span style="color:black"><b><i>MusikAnimal</i></b></span>]] [[User talk:MusikAnimal|<span style="color:green">^<b>talk</b></span>]] 09:07, 4 May 2025 (UTC) :Awesome – I've been looking forward to this for a very long time and I'm very glad you and Taavi have made it possible! Thanks again. :) //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:09, 4 May 2025 (UTC) :I'm really relieved to hear this and look forward to decreasing my participation at [[c:Commons:Deletion requests]]. Thank you, and many thanks to [[User:Taavi|Taavi]]! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 16:06, 4 May 2025 (UTC) ::This is great news. Thanks for letting us know. Taavi, you're awesome. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:43, 6 May 2025 (UTC) == We will be enabling the new Charts extension on your wiki soon! == ''(Apologies for posting in English)'' Hi all! We have good news to share regarding the ongoing problem with graphs and charts affecting all wikis that use them. As you probably know, the [[:mw:Special:MyLanguage/Extension:Graph|old Graph extension]] was disabled in 2023 [[listarchive:list/wikitech-l@lists.wikimedia.org/thread/EWL4AGBEZEDMNNFTM4FRD4MHOU3CVESO/|due to security reasons]]. We’ve worked in these two years to find a solution that could replace the old extension, and provide a safer and better solution to users who wanted to showcase graphs and charts in their articles. We therefore developed the [[:mw:Special:MyLanguage/Extension:Chart|Charts extension]], which will be replacing the old Graph extension and potentially also the [[:mw:Extension:EasyTimeline|EasyTimeline extension]]. After successfully deploying the extension on Italian, Swedish, and Hebrew Wikipedia, as well as on MediaWiki.org, as part of a pilot phase, we are now happy to announce that we are moving forward with the next phase of deployment, which will also include your wiki. The deployment will happen in batches, and will start from '''May 6'''. Please, consult [[:mw:Special:MyLanguage/Extension:Chart/Project#Deployment Timeline|our page on MediaWiki.org]] to discover when the new Charts extension will be deployed on your wiki. You can also [[:mw:Special:MyLanguage/Extension:Chart|consult the documentation]] about the extension on MediaWiki.org. If you have questions, need clarifications, or just want to express your opinion about it, please refer to the [[:mw:Special:MyLanguage/Extension_talk:Chart/Project|project’s talk page on Mediawiki.org]], or ping me directly under this thread. If you encounter issues using Charts once it gets enabled on your wiki, please report it on the [[:mw:Extension_talk:Chart/Project|talk page]] or at [[phab:tag/charts|Phabricator]]. Thank you in advance! -- [[User:Sannita (WMF)|User:Sannita (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Sannita (WMF)|talk]]) 15:07, 6 May 2025 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:Sannita (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Sannita_(WMF)/Mass_sending_test&oldid=28663781 --> :Does anyone remember whether we're using any of these? [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:44, 6 May 2025 (UTC) ::I don't think we've ever used charts on this site – like, ever. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 22:23, 6 May 2025 (UTC) :{{ping|WhatamIdoing|SHB2000}} We do have {{tl|Climate}}, but it probably never used the Graph extension. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 03:35, 7 May 2025 (UTC) ::Thanks. ::@[[User:Sannita (WMF)|Sannita (WMF)]], I notice that [[mw:Extension:Chart/Project#Deployment Timeline]] only list mw.org and Wikipedias. What's the schedule for the non-Wikipedias? [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 05:04, 7 May 2025 (UTC) :::Hi @[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]], thanks for the question. The deployment for non-Wikipedia wikis will happen this week, along with most of the Wikipedias that are not scheduled for the next two weeks. It is up to you if the extension will be useful for your work or not. [[User:Sannita (WMF)|Sannita (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Sannita (WMF)|talk]]) 11:19, 7 May 2025 (UTC) ::::I believe it is useful for making a remastered version of the existing {{tl|Climate}} template. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 11:38, 7 May 2025 (UTC) :::::@[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] and the others: there's a correction to my last message. There's been a change in the schedule yesterday for scaling purposes, so all non-Wikipedia wikis will be addressed ''after'' the deployment will be completed on all Wikipedias. This means that all non-Wikipedia wikis will have to wait until the end of the month at least. Sorry for the delay. [[User:Sannita (WMF)|Sannita (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Sannita (WMF)|talk]]) 11:06, 8 May 2025 (UTC) ::Yeah I think that just uses some very complex css but never the formal MW extension. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:39, 7 May 2025 (UTC) == Call for Candidates for the Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee (U4C) == <section begin="announcement-content" /> The results of voting on the Universal Code of Conduct Enforcement Guidelines and Universal Code of Conduct Coordinating Committee (U4C) Charter is [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal Code of Conduct/Annual review/2025#Results|available on Meta-wiki]]. You may now [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal Code of Conduct/Coordinating Committee/Election/2025/Candidates|submit your candidacy to serve on the U4C]] through 29 May 2025 at 12:00 UTC. Information about [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Universal Code of Conduct/Coordinating Committee/Election/2025|eligibility, process, and the timeline are on Meta-wiki]]. Voting on candidates will open on 1 June 2025 and run for two weeks, closing on 15 June 2025 at 12:00 UTC. If you have any questions, you can ask on [[m:Talk:Universal Code of Conduct/Coordinating Committee/Election/2025|the discussion page for the election]]. -- in cooperation with the U4C, <section end="announcement-content" /> <bdi lang="en" dir="ltr">[[m:User:Keegan (WMF)|Keegan (WMF)]] ([[m:User_talk:Keegan (WMF)|talk]])</bdi> 22:08, 15 May 2025 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:Keegan (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=28618011 --> == 33,333 articles == [[File:33333 articles milestone.png|thumb|300px|33333]] In some mildly optimistic news, we've finally reached 33,333 articles with the creation of [[Nassarawa]]. Thanks to everyone who has made this happen! //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 08:35, 16 May 2025 (UTC) :That's a good achievement, but it also tells us about our obsession with arbitrary patterns, like round figures (30,000), strings of the same digits (33,333), and so on. These are meaningless to many other number systems, like 30,000 and 33,333 are 7,530 and 8,235 in hexadecimal, respectively. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 09:36, 16 May 2025 (UTC) ::Haha definitely true – but I also think the fact that article count milestones on this project tend to be several years apart has something to do with this too. I expect 40k articles by 2034 and there's not a whole lot apart from 35k in between. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:54, 16 May 2025 (UTC) :::We have 36,000₁₀ = 𒐞 * 𒐕^𒐖 (10*100₆₀) – that's quite a round figure (and in [[:w:Sexagesimal|an important base]]) – or 2⁵·3²·5³, the first prime numbers (in any base) raised to the previous of the numbers (with overflow rotation). :::<nowiki/>:-) :::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 22:33, 16 May 2025 (UTC) ::::True, that's another worthy milestone for a project of this size. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:19, 19 May 2025 (UTC) :This milestone makes me happy. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 19:17, 17 May 2025 (UTC) == RfC ongoing regarding Abstract Wikipedia (and your project) == <div lang="en" dir="ltr" class="mw-content-ltr"> ''(Apologies for posting in English, if this is not your first language)'' Hello all! We opened a discussion on Meta about a very delicate issue for the development of [[:m:Special:MyLanguage/Abstract Wikipedia|Abstract Wikipedia]]: where to store the abstract content that will be developed through functions from Wikifunctions and data from Wikidata. Since some of the hypothesis involve your project, we wanted to hear your thoughts too. We want to make the decision process clear: we do not yet know which option we want to use, which is why we are consulting here. We will take the arguments from the Wikimedia communities into account, and we want to consult with the different communities and hear arguments that will help us with the decision. The decision will be made and communicated after the consultation period by the Foundation. You can read the various hypothesis and have your say at [[:m:Abstract Wikipedia/Location of Abstract Content|Abstract Wikipedia/Location of Abstract Content]]. Thank you in advance! -- [[User:Sannita (WMF)|Sannita (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Sannita (WMF)|<span class="signature-talk">{{int:Talkpagelinktext}}</span>]]) 15:27, 22 May 2025 (UTC) </div> <!-- Message sent by User:Sannita (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Sannita_(WMF)/Mass_sending_test&oldid=28768453 --> :{{re|Sannita (WMF)}} may I ask how this affects Wikivoyage when you say "some of the hypothesis involve your project"? TIA, //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 02:28, 26 May 2025 (UTC) ::The proposed solutions mention the Wikivoyages in several places. The main issue is that an abstract article about Someplace shouldn't be rendered the same in Wikipedia and Wikivoyage. This affects also the technical solutions, such as where to store statements and functions. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:21, 26 May 2025 (UTC) :::Can you explain further how we have abstract (vs. concrete?) articles on Wikivoyage? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 07:27, 26 May 2025 (UTC) ::::We don't have any abstract articles at the time being, and I assume Wikivoyage in English may choose never to have them. For smaller languages, though, it is unrealistic to cover all interesting places with proper articles. The mission of Abstract Wikipedia is to provide a framework for creating articles in a way that allows automatic translation into something at least half-way decent. It's like having listings fetch key information from Wikidata, but scaled up to complete articles (or less complete – at least lively language on personal impressions will certainly be missing for the foreseeable future). –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 07:43, 26 May 2025 (UTC) :::::I see – I still don't understand how this will fully get (even after reading the hypothesis), but I suppose it's something for smaller language projects. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 09:47, 26 May 2025 (UTC) ::::::Hi @[[User:SHB2000|SHB2000]], it seems that @[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] covered most of my arguments here already, so I would just repeat them at this point. The part that interests your project refers to the hypothesis that abstract content ''might'' (but it's still not sure at the moment) be stored in a dedicated namespace of your project. But again, this ''might'' happen, and you're free to refuse to store/use abstract content to further your development. This is entirely in your right, and we do not want to force any adoption of the project without consensus. [[User:Sannita (WMF)|Sannita (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Sannita (WMF)|talk]]) 10:01, 26 May 2025 (UTC) ::::::And yes, Abstract Wikipedia is primarily intended for projects that have so far developed a small number of articles, in order to help them accelerate their growth and hopefully provide more knowledge to their communities and recruit a higher number of volunteers. [[User:Sannita (WMF)|Sannita (WMF)]] ([[User talk:Sannita (WMF)|talk]]) 10:03, 26 May 2025 (UTC) :::::::Sounds perfect. Thanks to both of you for explaining! //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 10:10, 26 May 2025 (UTC) ::::::::Seconded. I understand. We should discuss in a separate thread whether it would be better to encourage, allow perhaps without comment, or disallow abstract listings on this site. I think we probably don't want abstract articles, but we should discuss that, too. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 12:22, 26 May 2025 (UTC) :::::::::I can see abstract listings being useful for more obscure parts of the world for English speakers for this site at least, but overall sounds like it's something to help smaller language Wikivoyages benefit from us rather than the other way around (which is also great). //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:30, 26 May 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::I mentioned listings as we already use Wikidata for them (coordinates) and have discussed e.g. opening hours (too complicated to be workable). I don't think "abstract listings" are an option at this point – somebody needs to decide a listing is wanted and would include some manual language when adding it. We still might have some valuable insights in how – and how not – to design abstract Wikivoyage articles for them to be useful. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 14:04, 26 May 2025 (UTC) ::I have two thoughts about this: ::* We need some way of separating a block of text that works for Wikipedia from a block of text that works for Wikivoyage (or another sister project). That suggests ''not'' using the English Wikipedia as the storage place for everything. The Wikipedias might all want "Jupiter is the largest planet in the Solar System. It is the fifth planet from the Sun", but if Wikivoyage were to have an article on the planet, it would probably sound a lot more like "Jupiter isn't a viable destination, but travelers interested in [[astronomy]] and [[navigation]]<nowiki/>by the stars may be interested in the Big Museum of Jupiter and the Annual Jupiter Festival". ::* I think that the English Wikivoyage could benefit from Abstract content. It's obvious that we could 'translate' our [[Wikivoyage:Star articles|Star articles]] into Abstract, and thus other Wikivoyages would benefit. However, imagine how much we could benefit if @[[User:Sannita (WMF)|Sannita (WMF)]] brought [[:it:Roma]] up to Star status, and then translated it for us to copy whatever bits we wanted in [[Rome]]. Keep in mind that while Abstract is set up to do dynamic autotranslation (e.g., always giving the latest population estimate, if the sentence says "the population of Rome is ___"), you can actually copy and paste the results as plain old text into an article. ::[[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:07, 26 May 2025 (UTC) :::If I understand correctly, Abstract Wikipedia works with programming that could have been done in the 1980s, more or less like [[:w:Lsjbot|Lsjbot]]'s articles, although not confined to info found in already existing datasets. "Not a viable destination" would need to be an item to insert and translate. That article on Jupiter would have very little in common with the Wikipedia one. :::For Rome, population statistics etc. would be easy to write in abstract form, but an abstract star article would need a lot of article-specific functions, which need to be translated to get a version in another language – and lively language is hard to translate automatically (think "[[Talk#Speaking English with non-native speakers|blind and therefore insane]]"). Copying over listings would work, and a good abstract article should have a good selection of those. :::I think an abstract Wikivoyage article should focus on being reasonably complete by having ''information'': roads and trains for getting in, listings with coords, contact details and Wikidata link, and suggestions in Go next, but quite little running text, mostly identical across articles except data values (…is a village/town/city in X…), and likewise a dry list of facts in the listing "content", not like the lively writing in [[Wikivoyage:Listings#Examples|Wikivoyage:Listings]]. :::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 17:47, 26 May 2025 (UTC) ::::As Wikivoyage has generally has more structured articles than Wikipedia, I think that we could make use of an Abstract Wikivoyage. Two areas look like possible starting points: listings and the phrases in phrasebooks. ::::If a tool could create an abstract version of a listing that exists in another language, then the listing could be offered when editing the same section of an article here - "Would you like to add a listing for the Lawnmower Museum?". Some parts of listing could be updated in all languages when edited in one - we would show the last updated entry price for the museum whatever language it was edited in. A difficult part is identifying when listing elements are language specific - we may use a different url from another WV to point to a page in English, and we don't care that the museum has labels translated into Spanish. ::::In English WV we have a standard set of phrases for phrasebooks, and most phrasebooks keep fairly closely to this list. This list is also the basis for phrasebooks in some other language WVs. It would appear to be reasonably straightforward to scan the existing phrases to create an abstract phrasebook, but inconsistencies would need to be reviewed. There are about 300 phrasebooks in English, 50 in German and 20 in Polish. Maybe we can use this to offer over 200 phrasebooks in Polish. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:44, 26 May 2025 (UTC) :::::For listings, yes, the abstract versions would be easy to create. For the name, we only need to identify the native name, its romanisation, and the language of translated names. There are already structures for all this in Wikidata; also "official URL" has a language attribute. Amenities of hotels can likewise easily be described. Nothing will be automatically fetched, so no worries about info irrelevant for English speakers. What is hard to do is the lively language of the examples I linked above. :::::For phrasebooks, I am not sure it is that easy, or rather whether creating an abstract phrasebook helps compared to just translating the template and using a dictionary (or whatever way you otherwise use for getting translations). Grammar and pronunciation sections needs to be written with the audience's language knowledge in mind, and translations of phrases need to be done with some understanding of the context, thus mostly manually. For a good phrasebook, you also need to note peculiarities in the relation with the target language, such as the liberty/liberté etc. now added to the French and Italian phrasebook and warnings for specific false friends. :::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 04:57, 27 May 2025 (UTC) ::::::I think phrasebooks is one of those things (along with travel topics) where it's more or less impossible to create an abstract version of. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 05:23, 27 May 2025 (UTC) :::::::Why do you think that? :::::::We can already write things like "{{#invoke:wd|label|Q98815142}}, a {{#invoke:wd|label|Q81727}} of {{#invoke:wd|label|Q8486}}, {{#invoke:wd|label|Q26175857}}" by invoking Wikidata. It would require expansion (e.g., to add "a" and "an"), but it doesn't seem impossible in principle, at least for simpler sentences. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 17:24, 27 May 2025 (UTC) ::::::::The question is whether there is any point of doing that. If every phrase has to be purpose-translated, then why not just write the non-abstract phrasebook? The point with the abstract articles is that there are standard phrases that can be used across articles, such as words for amenities you will find in many hotels. For the phrasebook phrases, the question is whether the same Sámi phrase would suite the phrasebook in English and the one in Latvian (or whatever). ::::::::When the English phrase is translated differently depending on context, some commentary needs to be added (formal/informal, feminine/masculine). This commentary is redundant or awkward in languages that make the same distinction, possibly treating the two (or more) forms as totally unrelated (the person is deceased, the cow is dead). ::::::::For the cup of tea, you may need to word that differently depending on whether you are a man or woman, and whether the one you are asking for the cup is a waiter, the café owner, your host or your host's young child. ::::::::–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 20:59, 27 May 2025 (UTC) :::::::::Perhaps an example would show what I was thinking of: :::::::::In [[French phrasebook]], we have: :::::::::; How much is a ticket to _____? : Combien coûte le billet pour _____ ? (''kom-BYAN koot luh bee-YEH poor'') :::::::::; One ticket to _____, please. : Un billet pour _____, s'il vous plaît. (''ung bee-YEH poor ____ seel voo pleh'') :::::::::On Polish WV there is [[:pl:Rozmówki francuskie]], their French Phrasebook. :::::::::;Ile kosztuje bilet do...? : Combien coûte le billet pour...? :::::::::;Poproszę jeden bilet do... : Un billet pour..., je vous prie. :::::::::We also have [[Finnish phrasebook]], which has: :::::::::; How much is a ticket to _____? : Paljonko maksaa lippu _____in? (''PAHL-yonk-aw MAHK-sah LEEP-poo _____?'') :::::::::So I think that a Finnish phrasebook on the Polish WV, could have :::::::::;Ile kosztuje bilet do...? : Paljonko maksaa lippu _____in? (''PAHL-yonk-aw MAHK-sah LEEP-poo _____?'') :::::::::"One ticket to" is not exactly the same (translating the French used in Polish, it is saying "I beg you" rather than "please"), so this phase would require some manual adjustments when it was abstracted. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 22:24, 27 May 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::I don't think that the idea with Abstract is to program in "please", but rather to swap in whichever word or phrase is used in that language to indicate politeness and respect while making a request. ::::::::::We already have a [[mw:Help:Magic words#gender|software switch for gender]], so this is not some miraculous future tech; this is an expansion of what has been possible for years. [[User:WhatamIdoing|WhatamIdoing]] ([[User talk:WhatamIdoing|talk]]) 01:39, 28 May 2025 (UTC) :::::::::::For Finnish, there is no word or phrase that indicates politeness, but one often uses the conditional (?) verb form instead. In some cases one would just use that word form in the phrase (in the Finnish phrasebooks and in phrasebooks for Finnish) – but here the question is instead with no sign of politeness, which is common in that language. Something like "could you" is problematic as most languages make a distinction between thou and you. I think the common cases can be handled decently, but for less well-known language families – those that benefit most from the abstract articles – the edge cases will be more common. It is likely that abstract phrasebook have to be tweaked for specific languages to avoid the odd case of very problematic renderings. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 06:02, 28 May 2025 (UTC) ::::::::::::In Malay, there are two words for "please" that have different meanings and are used in different contexts. There are also two words for "we" that have different meanings. Etc. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 09:34, 30 May 2025 (UTC) :::::::::::::I would expect all the foreign phrases to be reproduced exactly as they were in the existing phrasebook(s) that they were taken from. Ideally the left side phrases would also be exact reproductions, unless they were used to create a phrasebook to be part of a WV that doesn't currently have any phrasebooks; but it is less of an issue if the left side doesn't read perfectly. I am assuming that an Abstract Wikivoyage would have some mechanism for handling quoted text, as this is essential for reproducing the exact words used in famous speeches etc, and will be required for abstract Wikipedia and Wikiquote etc. [[User:AlasdairW|AlasdairW]] ([[User talk:AlasdairW|talk]]) 14:06, 30 May 2025 (UTC) ::::::::{{re|WhatamIdoing}} LPfi's basically explained why I don't think abstract phrasebooks will work. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 23:25, 27 May 2025 (UTC) == Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees 2025 Selection & Call for Questions == <section begin="announcement-content" /> :''[[m:Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia Foundation elections/2025/Announcement/Selection announcement|{{int:interlanguage-link-mul}}]] • [https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Translate&group=page-{{urlencode:Wikimedia Foundation elections/2025/Announcement/Selection announcement}}&language=&action=page&filter= {{int:please-translate}}]'' Dear all, This year, the term of 2 (two) Community- and Affiliate-selected Trustees on the Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees will come to an end [1]. The Board invites the whole movement to participate in this year’s selection process and vote to fill those seats. The Elections Committee will oversee this process with support from Foundation staff [2]. The Governance Committee, composed of trustees who are not candidates in the 2025 community-and-affiliate-selected trustee selection process (Raju Narisetti, Shani Evenstein Sigalov, Lorenzo Losa, Kathy Collins, Victoria Doronina and Esra’a Al Shafei) [3], is tasked with providing Board oversight for the 2025 trustee selection process and for keeping the Board informed. More details on the roles of the Elections Committee, Board, and staff are here [4]. Here are the key planned dates: * May 22 – June 5: Announcement (this communication) and call for questions period [6] * June 17 – July 1, 2025: Call for candidates * July 2025: If needed, affiliates vote to shortlist candidates if more than 10 apply [5] * August 2025: Campaign period * August – September 2025: Two-week community voting period * October – November 2025: Background check of selected candidates * Board’s Meeting in December 2025: New trustees seated Learn more about the 2025 selection process - including the detailed timeline, the candidacy process, the campaign rules, and the voter eligibility criteria - on this Meta-wiki page [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025|[link]]]. '''Call for Questions''' In each selection process, the community has the opportunity to submit questions for the Board of Trustees candidates to answer. The Election Committee selects questions from the list developed by the community for the candidates to answer. Candidates must answer all the required questions in the application in order to be eligible; otherwise their application will be disqualified. This year, the Election Committee will select 5 questions for the candidates to answer. The selected questions may be a combination of what’s been submitted from the community, if they’re alike or related. [[m:Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Questions_for_candidates|[link]]] '''Election Volunteers''' Another way to be involved with the 2025 selection process is to be an Election Volunteer. Election Volunteers are a bridge between the Elections Committee and their respective community. They help ensure their community is represented and mobilize them to vote. Learn more about the program and how to join on this Meta-wiki page [[m:Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Election_volunteers|[link].]] Thank you! [1] https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2022/Results [2] https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Committee:Elections_Committee_Charter [3] https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Resolution:Committee_Membership,_December_2024 [4] https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections_committee/Roles [5] https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/FAQ [6] https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Questions_for_candidates Best regards, Victoria Doronina Board Liaison to the Elections Committee Governance Committee<section end="announcement-content" /> [[User:MediaWiki message delivery|MediaWiki message delivery]] ([[User talk:MediaWiki message delivery|talk]]) 03:08, 28 May 2025 (UTC) <!-- Message sent by User:RamzyM (WMF)@metawiki using the list at https://meta.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Distribution_list/Global_message_delivery&oldid=28618011 --> == FYI: Planning a Trip? AI Will Do That For You == https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/ai-travel-apps —[[User:Koavf|Justin (<span style="color:grey">ko'''a'''vf</span>)]]<span style="color:red">❤[[User talk:Koavf|T]]☮[[Special:Contributions/Koavf|C]]☺[[Special:Emailuser/Koavf|M]]☯</span> 07:04, 1 June 2025 (UTC) :I wonder whether we can design an AI tool that can fetch info from Wikivoyage and make a summary for you. That can replace the burden of manual summary writing by Wikivoyagers. Of course, Wikivoyage articles should be curated by humans, with AI summarizing them. I want to suggest this to Wikipedians as well, but I have been blocked there since 2021, and I mostly work on the Bengali Wikipedia. '''[[User:Sbb1413|Sbb1413]]''' (he) ([[User talk:Sbb1413|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Sbb1413|contribs]]) 07:11, 1 June 2025 (UTC) 1plc1zce8e4ohc19aky0c0nyipklr49 0 209286 5091054 5084285 2025-07-10T20:47:22Z Bluecoordinationfine 2327039 See change on Södra Kungsleden article. 5091054 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Atoklimpen juli 2023 Banner.jpg}} The '''Lapplandsleden''' (English: Lappland Trail) is a long-distance hiking trail in Swedish Lapland, inaugurated around 2021. Spanning roughly {{Convert|190|km|mi}}, it connects Borgafjäll in the south (in [[Dorotea]]) to [[Hemavan]] in the north, where it joins the famous [[Kungsleden]] (King's Trail). This connection allows for a continuous trek from Borgafjäll all the way to [[Abisko]]. == Understand == {{see also|Hiking in the Nordic countries|Right to access}} [[File: Klimpfjäll from Autjoklimpen.jpg|thumb|upright=1.5|View of Klimpfjäll from Autjoklimpen]] Lapplandsleden runs through the sparsely populated mountain and forest regions of southern Swedish Lapland. The trail traverses subarctic terrain with a short hiking season from late June to early September. Most of the trail is above the tree line. Even in summer, the weather is highly variable. Days can be warm and sunny, but sudden rain, wind, and cold temperatures are common, especially at higher elevations. Night frosts can occur even in July. Snowfields may linger into early July in shaded or elevated areas, and unbridged streams may swell during snowmelt or after heavy rain. Bogs and wetlands are frequent along the route, so waterproof footwear is essential. Mosquitoes and biting flies are abundant in July and August, particularly in low-lying areas. Visibility may be reduced in fog or low cloud cover, and strong winds are possible on open plateaus. == Prepare == {{Panorama | image = Elevation profile of the Lapplandsleden.png | caption = Elevation profile of the Lapplandsleden | box-width = 100% | border = no | width = 700px }} === Finding your way === [[File:Lapplandsleden.svg|thumb|Map of Lapplandsleden]] The summer trail is marked with orange signs, while the winter route follows red crosses. Always stick to the summer route in warmer months to avoid impassable bogs and water crossings. Have a map and a compass. If you rely on electronic maps, download them and make sure that you have a backup. Using your [[GPS]] is hard on your batteries, as is keeping your mobile connection on where the signal is lacking. A gpx of the trail may be downloaded from Waymarked Trails: [https://hiking.waymarkedtrails.org/#route?id=13439996&type=relation&map=8.0/65.3331/14.8053 Lappland Trail] === Connect === Mobile coverage is unreliable, but some huts have emergency telephones. ===Sleep=== Unstaffed huts along the Lapplandsleden are operated by the Länsstyrelsen Västerbotten (County Administrative Board of Västerbotten). A fee of 200 SEK per person per night applies. Children under 15 stay for free. Pay after your stay via: * Bank transfer :* IBAN: <code>SE19 1200 0000 0128 1010 8390</code> :* BIC: <code>DABASESX</code> :* Reference: <code>21149</code> * Swish (for Scandinavian accounts) Huts provide wood-burning stoves, cooking equipment, mattresses, pillows, and blankets. However, a sleeping bag liner is recommended, and ideally you should also bring a sleeping bag and mattress. Toilet paper is usually not supplied, so be sure to bring your own. Visitors must clean the hut, restock firewood, fully extinguish fires, and secure the door before leaving. Water sources are available at all huts, and wastewater should be disposed of at designated ''Slask'' areas. ==Get in== [[Hemavan]] has an airport with connection to Stockholm. Reaching it with train and bus is also possible. Borgafjäll can be reached by bus from {{marker|type=go|name=[[Dorotea]]|lat=64.2582|long=16.4067|wikidata=Q1202958}}, through {{marker|type=go|name=[[Östersund]]|wikidata=Q26515}}. Östersund is easily accessible by direct train from Stockholm and serves as a key transport hub for the region. From here, you can transfer to the [[Inlandsbanan]], a scenic railway that operates during the summer months and stops in Dorotea, or take the bus. == Walk == {{Mapframe|65.332|14.821|zoom=7}} {{mapshape|type=geoline|wikidata=Q131542753|stroke=#000000|stroke-width=3|title=Lapplandsleden}} === Hemavan - Atoklimpen === ; Distance : 39.5 km ; Duration : 11 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 573 m The trail begins in the small village of {{Marker|counter=n|type=city|name=[[Hemavan]]|wikidata=Q937583}}, the southern terminus of the [[Kungsleden]] trail. As hikers leave Hemavan, the landscape gradually shifts from gentle terrains to more rugged environments. The route continues to the remote waypoint of Goeblejaevrie before reaching Atoklimpen cultural reserve. You can take a side trail to the summit of Atoklimpen at {{m|1006}}, a sacred site for the Sami people. * {{listing|counter=n|type=sleep|name=Goeblejaevrie camp site|wikidata=Q134029440|content=Campsite}} * {{listing|counter=n|name=Atostugan Atoklimpen|type=sleep|wikidata=Q134029430|content=Not for overnight stays}} === Atoklimpen - Arevattnet === ; Distance : 19.9 km ; Duration : 6 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 544 m The Deavna rastskydd cabin is available here, off the trail. The journey contiues towards Arevattnet stuga. * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Deavna rastskydd|wikidata=Q134029425|content=Emergency cabin}} * {{listing|counter=n|name=Arevattnet stuga|type=sleep|wikidata=Q134029421|content=Two bunk beds sleep 4-6, with wider lower bunks.}} === Arevattnet - Gränssjö === ; Distance : 27.5 km ; Duration : 8 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 604 m Good camping spots can be found near a small pond at Aamere's ridge, on lush meadows before the trail drops towards Skalvattnet, and at the outlet of Skalvattnet lake. Water sources are limited. Alternatively, you can camp by the road at Vapstälven, which is around 8 km from the Gränssjö campsite. * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Gränssjöarna|wikidata=Q134029418|Camping with small kiosk}} === Gränssjö - Åtnikstugan === ; Distance : 21.4 km ; Duration : 6 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 339 m From here, the route leads toward Durrenskalet rastskydd, another cabin available along the way. As the trail progresses, hikers pass through varied landscapes, including denser birch forests and stretches of open fjäll. The final segment descends gently towards Åtnikstugan. * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Durrenskalet rastskydd|wikidata=Q134029413|content=Wind shelter}} * {{listing|counter=n|name=Åtnikstugan|type=sleep|wikidata=Q134029409|content=Space for ~10 to sleep on the floor. A locked room is reserved for staff.}} === Åtnikstugan - Klimpfjäll === ; Distance : 38.4 km ; Duration : 10 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 367 m The trail begins at Åtnikstugan and initially features varied terrain, including challenging undulations, bouldery sections, and several river crossings. Hikers will also encounter double-wooden planks over boggy areas and some small boggy patches to traverse. Halfway to the next cabin, a brief detour onto Stekenjokkvägen is possible, temporarily diverging from the main trail. Continuing onward, the trail passes Tjåkkelestugan before reaching Slipsikstugan, located in an alpine landscape above the tree line. The stage descends gradually and ends in {{Marker|counter=n|type=city|name=Klimpfjäll|wikidata=Q1006739}}. Klimpfjäll is one of the few places where it's possible to get a good resupply at the Handlar'n grocery store. Be sure to stock up before you set off! * {{listing|counter=n|name=Tjåkkelestugan|type=sleep|wikidata=Q134029406|content=Six beds in the main cabin, two in a smaller one. Loft sleeping possible in summer.}} * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Slipsikstugan|wikidata=Q134029392|content=Unlocked cabin with bunk beds for 4-6. No reservations.}} === Klimpfjäll - Borgafjäll === ; Distance : 38 km ; Duration : 10 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 334 m [[File:--BORGAHÄLLAN--.jpg|thumb|Borgahällan near Borgafjäll]] The terrain in this section is mixed, with potential for rocky and marshy areas. It's advisable to be prepared for wet conditions, as some areas may be flooded. From here, the trail continues to Geartoe rastskydd before progressing through varied terrain, including forested sections and open landscapes. The trail ends in the small mountain village of {{Marker|counter=n|type=city|name=Borgafjäll|wikidata=Q2302118}}. An optional “Art Route” (Konstvägen) detour is available, featuring artworks like Per Enoksson's “A Good Night's Sleep” and Tomas Colbengtson's “Signpost.” This detour can be started either at the bus garage in Saxnäs or from the parking area at {{Marker|name=Satsfjället|wikidata=Q134029352|type=go}}. * {{listing||counter=n|name=Geartoe rastskydd|type=sleep|wikidata=Q134029366|content=Emergency cabin}} == Stay safe == The area is sparsely inhabited and there are probably parts of the itinerary that lack mobile coverage. Make sure that you can manage on your own. Tell somebody your travel plans and a hard deadline, when they should call emergency services. Don't go alone unless you are sure that you know what you are doing. == Go next == * [[Kungsleden]] - Continues north to [[Abisko and Björkliden]]. * [[Green Ribbon]] - Lapplandsleden can be traveled as a section of the Green Ribbon, which extends south to Grövelsjön. {{usableitinerary}} {{related|Norrland}} {{PartOfItinerary|Europe itineraries}} 81cdwk2qb0zjrbwz3ms8j4a2wmkh6r2 0 209727 5091053 5077475 2025-07-10T20:44:25Z Bluecoordinationfine 2327039 See Södra Kungsleden article. 5091053 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|The Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye, Scotland - Landscape photography - Flickr - Giuseppe Milo (www.pixael.com) Banner.jpg}} The '''Skye Trail''' is a {{km|128}} long-distance hiking route that runs the length of the Isle of [[Skye]] in [[Scotland]]. Known for its dramatic scenery, the trail passes several of the island’s most notable landmarks, including the Trotternish Ridge, the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, and the Cuillin mountains. ==Understand== The Skye Trail is an unofficial route without waymarks on the route. The route is suitable for experienced backpackers as there are sections with no path and a long ridge traverse. It links together existing footpaths, trods, and open moorland to form a continuous walk from Rubha Hunish in the north to Broadford in the south. The trail typically takes between 5 to 7 days to complete, depending on pace and weather conditions. The route includes challenging highlights such as the Trotternish Ridge and the Cuillin foothills, along with quieter coastal and glen sections. Due to the lack of waymarking and infrastructure, it is not recommended for beginners or those without strong map and compass skills. That said, for well-prepared walkers, it offers one of the most rewarding and spectacular long-distance hikes in the UK. The trail is mapped on Waymarked Trails: [https://hiking.waymarkedtrails.org/#route?id=14421894&type=relation&map=9.0/57.4227/-6.1295 Skye Trail]. ==Prepare== {{Panorama | image = Skye Trail elevation profile.png | caption = Skye Trail elevation profile | box-width = 100% | border = no | width = 700px }} ==Get in== See the [[Skye]] and [[Portree]] articles for details of getting to the island. You might start and finish your trail with buses from and back to Portree. The walk start is served by Stagecoach buses 57A and 57C which run from Portree and [[Uig]] (57C only). The bus stop for the walk start is "Duntulm, Shulista Road End". The walk end at [[Broadford]] has regular buses to Portree and Citylink buses to Glasgow and Inverness. ==Walk== {{Mapframe}} {{mapshape|type=geoline|wikidata=Q104585723|stroke= #000000 |stroke-width=3|title=Skye Trail}} ===Rubha Hunish – Flodigarry === ; Distance : 12.25 km ; Duration : 3 h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 177 m The trail begins at Rubha Hunish Skye's northernmost point, with the trailhead at {{Marker|counter=n|name=Rubha Hunish car park|type=go|lat= 57.683995206|long=-6.3256447880|wikidata= Q134029621}}, following a rugged coastline with cliffs and sea stacks. Hikers pass Duntulm Castle ruins and the abandoned village of Erisco. The route includes views of the Outer Hebrides, seabird sightings, boggy sections, and a short rocky scramble on the optional Hunish headland detour. A burn crossing near Kilmaluag can be challenging after heavy rain. The stage ends at {{Marker|counter=n|name=Flodigarry|type=city|lat=57.66265|long=-6.25852|wikidata=Q2730864}}, near a hostel and the Flodigarry Hotel, with views of the Trotternish Ridge and the Quiraing. ===Flodigarry – The Storr === ; Distance : 27.5 km ; Duration : 8½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 736 m [[File:Isle of Skye - An t-Eilean Sgitheanach 03.jpg|thumb|''Old Man of Storr'']] The trail climbs from Flodigarry onto the Trotternish Ridge, a 30 km escarpment running along the peninsula. This is the toughest stage of the Skye Trail, with steep climbs, rough terrain, and no clear path in places. It crosses the Quiraing, known for formations like the Needle and Prison, and continues along the ridge over several summits to The Storr, which rises to {{m|719}}. There are no facilities along the way, so carry enough water and supplies. Navigation is difficult in poor weather. The stage ends at the {{Marker|counter=n|name=Storr car park|type=go|lat=57.499292820|long=-6.1584334178|wikidata=Q134029623}}, near the Old Man of Storr pinnacles. ===The Storr – Portree === ; Distance : 14 km ; Duration : 4 h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 341 m The trail begins at Storr car park, offering an easier stage after the challenging ridge. A short road walk leads to rough moorland, then joins the coastal cliffs. Hikers follow a route along the cliff tops with views over the Sound of Raasay. On clear days, the isle of Raasay and the mainland are visible. A side trip descends to Bearreraig Bay, known for fossils, while those who skipped The Storr may opt for a late ascent. The terrain begins pathless and boggy, but improves along the cliffs, where caution is needed near steep drops. The stage ends in {{Marker|counter=n|name=[[Portree]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1010998}}, Skye's main town, with full services including accommodation, shops, and transport links. ===Portree – Sligachan === ; Distance : 19 km ; Duration : 5 h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 27 m From Portree, the trail follows a minor road through The Braes, a quiet crofting area with views of the Sound of Raasay. This section contrasts with previous rugged stages, passing peaceful coastal scenery. Historical note: The Braes was the site of the Battle of the Braes (1882), a crofters' land rights uprising near Camastianavaig, though no markers remain. The road ends at Peinachorran, where a rough but mostly flat footpath continues along Loch Sligachan. The route can be boggy, with Glamaig (Red Cuillin) dominating the view as the trail rounds the loch. The stage ends at Sligachan {{Marker|counter=n|name=[[Sligachan]]|type=city|wikidata=Q7540453}}, home to a hotel, bunkhouse, and campsite. The old stone bridge with the Black Cuillin backdrop is a classic photo stop. ===Sligachan – Elgol === ; Distance : 18 km ; Duration : 5 h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 89 m From Sligachan, the trail follows Glen Sligachan, a wild valley flanked by the Black Cuillin and Red Cuillin. This remote stretch gradually descends toward the sea. Reaching Camasunary Bay, hikers can see the Cuillin mountains across Loch Scavaig. A bothy at the bay offers a place to rest or spend the night. From there, the trail follows a narrow coastal path toward Elgol, traversing steep slopes high above the shoreline. This stretch is exposed and challenging, with uneven terrain that demands careful footing. In wet or windy weather, the path can be hazardous. Seals and occasionally dolphins can be spotted below. The stage ends in {{Marker|counter=n|name=[[Elgol]]|type=city|wikidata=Q2875342}}, a small fishing village with a community-run shop and boat trips to Loch Coruisk, a side adventure into the Cuillin. ===Elgol – Torrin === ; Distance : 16.5 km ; Duration : 4½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 141 m From Elgol, the trail follows a short road north through the crofting hamlets of Kirkibost and Keppoch before crossing boggy moorland toward Blà Bheinn (Blaven), one of Skye's most striking mountains. Looking back, hikers enjoy views of Elgol and the Small Isles, including Rùm and Eigg. To the south, the Sleat Peninsula stretches toward the horizon. As the route nears {{Marker|counter=n|name=Blà Bheinn car park|type=go|lat=57.2197975702|long=-6.0427477080|wikidata= Q134029626}} on Loch Slapin, the peak of Blà Bheinn dominates the landscape. From here, the trail follows a minor road around the head of Loch Slapin, a sea loch with turquoise waters on clear days, nestled between the mountain and the Strathaird Peninsula. The terrain varies, with a mix of road walking and a marshy footpath in the mid-section. Livestock graze in these areas, so dogs must be kept under control. Compared to previous stages, this is a more relaxed day of walking. The stage ends at {{Marker|counter=n|name=Torrin|type=city|wikidata=Q3777244}}, a small village on the loch shore. Torrin has a seasonal café and a bunkhouse. ===Torrin – Broadford === ; Distance : 20 km ; Duration : 5½ h ; Cumulative elevation gain : 229 m From Torrin, the final stage follows an off-road route rich in history. The path winds northeast along the coast of Loch Eishort and Broadford Bay, passing the ruins of former villages. This quiet coastal section offers clear views of the mainland mountains and the Isle of Scalpay. Near Boreraig and Suisnish, the trail passes the remains of two settlements abandoned during the Highland Clearances. Stone ruins and grassy outlines of former blackhouses are all that remain after the 1853 evictions ordered by Lord MacDonald. A sign along the way explains the history. The terrain consists mainly of grassy tracks and footpaths, with occasional boggy sections but minimal difficulty. Some parts lack a defined path, though navigation remains straightforward along the coastline. As Broadford approaches, the route transitions to a farm track and then a quiet road. The trail ends in {{Marker|counter=n|name=[[Broadford]]|type=city|wikidata=Q922593}}, Skye's second-largest village, set against the backdrop of the Red Cuillin. Broadford offers full services, including shops, accommodations, and transport links. The finish line on the village green by the bay marks the end of a roughly 128 km trek from Rubha Hunish. ==Stay safe== The Skye Trail is unmarked and remote, with rough terrain and rapidly changing weather. Good navigation skills, proper gear, and experience are essential. Mobile signal is unreliable, so always let someone know your plans. ==Go next== * [[West Highland Way]] - 96 miles long trail through the West Highlands in Scotland {{usableitinerary}} {{PartOfItinerary|Europe itineraries}} g1bigns6fjuetal1q3ffpoc87qfyjed 5091056 5091053 2025-07-10T20:49:54Z Bluecoordinationfine 2327039 Standard units for duration. 5091056 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|The Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye, Scotland - Landscape photography - Flickr - Giuseppe Milo (www.pixael.com) Banner.jpg}} The '''Skye Trail''' is a {{km|128}} long-distance hiking route that runs the length of the Isle of [[Skye]] in [[Scotland]]. Known for its dramatic scenery, the trail passes several of the island’s most notable landmarks, including the Trotternish Ridge, the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, and the Cuillin mountains. ==Understand== The Skye Trail is an unofficial route without waymarks on the route. The route is suitable for experienced backpackers as there are sections with no path and a long ridge traverse. It links together existing footpaths, trods, and open moorland to form a continuous walk from Rubha Hunish in the north to Broadford in the south. The trail typically takes between 5 to 7 days to complete, depending on pace and weather conditions. The route includes challenging highlights such as the Trotternish Ridge and the Cuillin foothills, along with quieter coastal and glen sections. Due to the lack of waymarking and infrastructure, it is not recommended for beginners or those without strong map and compass skills. That said, for well-prepared walkers, it offers one of the most rewarding and spectacular long-distance hikes in the UK. The trail is mapped on Waymarked Trails: [https://hiking.waymarkedtrails.org/#route?id=14421894&type=relation&map=9.0/57.4227/-6.1295 Skye Trail]. ==Prepare== {{Panorama | image = Skye Trail elevation profile.png | caption = Skye Trail elevation profile | box-width = 100% | border = no | width = 700px }} ==Get in== See the [[Skye]] and [[Portree]] articles for details of getting to the island. You might start and finish your trail with buses from and back to Portree. The walk start is served by Stagecoach buses 57A and 57C which run from Portree and [[Uig]] (57C only). The bus stop for the walk start is "Duntulm, Shulista Road End". The walk end at [[Broadford]] has regular buses to Portree and Citylink buses to Glasgow and Inverness. ==Walk== {{Mapframe}} {{mapshape|type=geoline|wikidata=Q104585723|stroke= #000000 |stroke-width=3|title=Skye Trail}} ===Rubha Hunish – Flodigarry === ; Distance : 12.25 km ; Duration : 3 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 177 m The trail begins at Rubha Hunish Skye's northernmost point, with the trailhead at {{Marker|counter=n|name=Rubha Hunish car park|type=go|lat= 57.683995206|long=-6.3256447880|wikidata= Q134029621}}, following a rugged coastline with cliffs and sea stacks. Hikers pass Duntulm Castle ruins and the abandoned village of Erisco. The route includes views of the Outer Hebrides, seabird sightings, boggy sections, and a short rocky scramble on the optional Hunish headland detour. A burn crossing near Kilmaluag can be challenging after heavy rain. The stage ends at {{Marker|counter=n|name=Flodigarry|type=city|lat=57.66265|long=-6.25852|wikidata=Q2730864}}, near a hostel and the Flodigarry Hotel, with views of the Trotternish Ridge and the Quiraing. ===Flodigarry – The Storr === ; Distance : 27.5 km ; Duration : 8½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 736 m [[File:Isle of Skye - An t-Eilean Sgitheanach 03.jpg|thumb|''Old Man of Storr'']] The trail climbs from Flodigarry onto the Trotternish Ridge, a 30 km escarpment running along the peninsula. This is the toughest stage of the Skye Trail, with steep climbs, rough terrain, and no clear path in places. It crosses the Quiraing, known for formations like the Needle and Prison, and continues along the ridge over several summits to The Storr, which rises to {{m|719}}. There are no facilities along the way, so carry enough water and supplies. Navigation is difficult in poor weather. The stage ends at the {{Marker|counter=n|name=Storr car park|type=go|lat=57.499292820|long=-6.1584334178|wikidata=Q134029623}}, near the Old Man of Storr pinnacles. ===The Storr – Portree === ; Distance : 14 km ; Duration : 4 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 341 m The trail begins at Storr car park, offering an easier stage after the challenging ridge. A short road walk leads to rough moorland, then joins the coastal cliffs. Hikers follow a route along the cliff tops with views over the Sound of Raasay. On clear days, the isle of Raasay and the mainland are visible. A side trip descends to Bearreraig Bay, known for fossils, while those who skipped The Storr may opt for a late ascent. The terrain begins pathless and boggy, but improves along the cliffs, where caution is needed near steep drops. The stage ends in {{Marker|counter=n|name=[[Portree]]|type=city|wikidata=Q1010998}}, Skye's main town, with full services including accommodation, shops, and transport links. ===Portree – Sligachan === ; Distance : 19 km ; Duration : 5 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 27 m From Portree, the trail follows a minor road through The Braes, a quiet crofting area with views of the Sound of Raasay. This section contrasts with previous rugged stages, passing peaceful coastal scenery. Historical note: The Braes was the site of the Battle of the Braes (1882), a crofters' land rights uprising near Camastianavaig, though no markers remain. The road ends at Peinachorran, where a rough but mostly flat footpath continues along Loch Sligachan. The route can be boggy, with Glamaig (Red Cuillin) dominating the view as the trail rounds the loch. The stage ends at Sligachan {{Marker|counter=n|name=[[Sligachan]]|type=city|wikidata=Q7540453}}, home to a hotel, bunkhouse, and campsite. The old stone bridge with the Black Cuillin backdrop is a classic photo stop. ===Sligachan – Elgol === ; Distance : 18 km ; Duration : 5 hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 89 m From Sligachan, the trail follows Glen Sligachan, a wild valley flanked by the Black Cuillin and Red Cuillin. This remote stretch gradually descends toward the sea. Reaching Camasunary Bay, hikers can see the Cuillin mountains across Loch Scavaig. A bothy at the bay offers a place to rest or spend the night. From there, the trail follows a narrow coastal path toward Elgol, traversing steep slopes high above the shoreline. This stretch is exposed and challenging, with uneven terrain that demands careful footing. In wet or windy weather, the path can be hazardous. Seals and occasionally dolphins can be spotted below. The stage ends in {{Marker|counter=n|name=[[Elgol]]|type=city|wikidata=Q2875342}}, a small fishing village with a community-run shop and boat trips to Loch Coruisk, a side adventure into the Cuillin. ===Elgol – Torrin === ; Distance : 16.5 km ; Duration : 4½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 141 m From Elgol, the trail follows a short road north through the crofting hamlets of Kirkibost and Keppoch before crossing boggy moorland toward Blà Bheinn (Blaven), one of Skye's most striking mountains. Looking back, hikers enjoy views of Elgol and the Small Isles, including Rùm and Eigg. To the south, the Sleat Peninsula stretches toward the horizon. As the route nears {{Marker|counter=n|name=Blà Bheinn car park|type=go|lat=57.2197975702|long=-6.0427477080|wikidata= Q134029626}} on Loch Slapin, the peak of Blà Bheinn dominates the landscape. From here, the trail follows a minor road around the head of Loch Slapin, a sea loch with turquoise waters on clear days, nestled between the mountain and the Strathaird Peninsula. The terrain varies, with a mix of road walking and a marshy footpath in the mid-section. Livestock graze in these areas, so dogs must be kept under control. Compared to previous stages, this is a more relaxed day of walking. The stage ends at {{Marker|counter=n|name=Torrin|type=city|wikidata=Q3777244}}, a small village on the loch shore. Torrin has a seasonal café and a bunkhouse. ===Torrin – Broadford === ; Distance : 20 km ; Duration : 5½ hr ; Cumulative elevation gain : 229 m From Torrin, the final stage follows an off-road route rich in history. The path winds northeast along the coast of Loch Eishort and Broadford Bay, passing the ruins of former villages. This quiet coastal section offers clear views of the mainland mountains and the Isle of Scalpay. Near Boreraig and Suisnish, the trail passes the remains of two settlements abandoned during the Highland Clearances. Stone ruins and grassy outlines of former blackhouses are all that remain after the 1853 evictions ordered by Lord MacDonald. A sign along the way explains the history. The terrain consists mainly of grassy tracks and footpaths, with occasional boggy sections but minimal difficulty. Some parts lack a defined path, though navigation remains straightforward along the coastline. As Broadford approaches, the route transitions to a farm track and then a quiet road. The trail ends in {{Marker|counter=n|name=[[Broadford]]|type=city|wikidata=Q922593}}, Skye's second-largest village, set against the backdrop of the Red Cuillin. Broadford offers full services, including shops, accommodations, and transport links. The finish line on the village green by the bay marks the end of a roughly 128 km trek from Rubha Hunish. ==Stay safe== The Skye Trail is unmarked and remote, with rough terrain and rapidly changing weather. Good navigation skills, proper gear, and experience are essential. Mobile signal is unreliable, so always let someone know your plans. ==Go next== * [[West Highland Way]] - 96 miles long trail through the West Highlands in Scotland {{usableitinerary}} {{PartOfItinerary|Europe itineraries}} hf1kg9yzgwrkgl9d1bosd4werpymd4i 0 209770 5091111 5031767 2025-07-11T00:54:44Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Climate */ "between between" 5091111 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Washpool National Park banner.jpg|unesco=yes}} '''Washpool National Park''' is a [[New South Wales national parks|New South Wales national park]] in the [[Eastern New England]] region along the Gwydir Highway. It is a {{unesco}} as part of the [[Gondwana Rainforests of Australia]]. ==Understand== Washpool National Park covers an area of approximately {{km2|587}}. The nature reserve includes the largest natural rainforest in New South Wales. To the south lies the [[Gibraltar Range National Park]]. ===History=== The national park was established in 1983 as a means of protecting an area that would've been lost to logging. Three years later in 1986, it was inscribed as a [[UNESCO World Heritage Site]] as part of the [[Gondwana Rainforests of Australia]], along with several parks in the area (including [[Gibraltar Range National Park|Gibraltar Range]] just to the south). The boundaries of the park were later extended in 1999. In 2007, it was finally added to the national heritage list (yes – the park really did gain world heritage before national heritage!). ===Landscape=== ===Flora and fauna=== ===Climate=== Summer temperatures vary between 14°C and 26°C, while winter temperatures vary between 2°C and 15°C. Bring a good jacket with you as the wind is often very misty. During the summer months, you'll also find that the park can get very rainy, particularly in January. The winter months are much drier. ===Visitor information=== * [https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/washpool-national-park Park website] * [https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/-/media/npws/maps/pdfs/parks/washpool-national-park/washpool-national-park-map.pdf Park map] ==Get in== The only way to get into the Coombadjha Area (where all but two of the park's points of interests are) is via the Coachwood Drive turnoff from the Gwydir Highway (B76). Once at the turnoff, continue straight for about 2–3 km until you've arrived at the park. To get to the turnoff, continue on Gwydir Highway east from [[Glen Innes]] for {{km|72}} (which takes approximately 50 minutes). Closer to the turnoff (which will be on your left) you will see signs clearly directing you towards Washpool National Park. This is instead {{km|88}} west (approx 70 min) if you're coming from [[Grafton (New South Wales)|Grafton]] and an extra {{km|13}} from the M1 Pacific Motorway exit at Glenugie. The main exception is Four Bull Hut, which has no road connection to the rest of the park. Instead, there is a turnoff midway between [[Tenterfield]] and Glen Innes at either Bolivia or Sandy Flat – from the turnoff continue for about 25 km in and then follow Mt Spirabo Rd. Signs will guide you through. ==Fees and permits== There is a daily fee of {{AUD|8}} for the core of the park. ==Get around== {{mapframe|zoom=14|-29.4805|152.3233}}{{mapshape|wikidata=Q2096005}} ==See and do== * {{see | name=Coachwood Pool Lookout | alt= | url=https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/lookouts/coachwood-pool-lookout | email= | address=Coombadjha Track | lat=-29.4692 | long=152.3171 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-03-10 | content=A lookout next to a generally very clear pool. It's a popular kingfisher (very colourful orange bird) breeding ground, which draws in birdwatchers. The clear waters also make the pool suitable for swimming (though do mind that it rains a fair bit during summer where temperatures are higher). The lookout is along the '''[https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/coombadjha-nature-stroll Coombadjha Nature Stroll]''', a very easy 1.4-km loop track. }} * {{see | name=Granite Lookout | alt= | url=https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/lookouts/granite-lookout | email= | address=Granite Lookout Road | lat=-29.4852 | long=152.3225 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-03-10 | content=A lookout with some great wilderness views as you overlook the Gibraltar Range. Getting to the lookout is rather easy and only requires a 400-metre walk via the '''[https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/granite-walking-track Granite Walking Track]''', though surfaces may be uneven. Once you're at the lookout, there are benches overlooking the scenery and a picnic area. }} * '''[https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/washpool-walking-track Washpool Walking Track]''' is an 8.5-km loop trail, though moderately difficult. It passes through some awesome rainforests, but can be time-intensive. A much shorter 1-km loop is also there if you're short on time. ==Buy, eat and drink== You must bring your own supplies to the park as there are none within. The nearest town with supplies is [[Glen Innes]], over an hour away. ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== * {{sleep | name=Four Bull Hut | alt= | url=https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/camping-and-accommodation/accommodation/four-bull-hut | email= | address=461 Four Bull Trail, Forest Land | lat=-29.2757 | long=152.1423 | directions= | phone=1300 072 757 (domestic) | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=2PM | checkout=10AM | price=$129.15/night | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-03-10 | content= }} ===Camping=== * {{sleep | name=Bellbird Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/camping-and-accommodation/campgrounds/bellbird-campground | email= | address= | lat=-29.4738 | long=152.3154 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-03-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Coombadjha Campground | alt= | url=https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/camping-and-accommodation/campgrounds/coombadjha-campground | email= | address= | lat=-29.4714 | long=152.3212 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-03-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== ==Go next== {{routebox2 |temp1={{AUR|B76}} |directionl1=W |majorl1=[[Glen Innes]] |minorl1=[[Gibraltar Range National Park]] |directionr1=E |minorr1=[[Grafton (New South Wales)|Grafton]] |majorr1=[[Maclean]] }} {{IsPartOf|Eastern New England}} {{usablepark}} {{geo||}} q7yfecdwm6nx03tphf7zfz6xni372if 0 210068 5090836 5047457 2025-07-10T13:43:19Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090836 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Pagebanner default.jpg}} '''Cuijk''' is a town in the [[Peel (Netherlands)|Peel]] Region in [[North Brabant]]. {{mapframe}} ==Understand== ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== * {{see | name=Monastery Sint Agatha | alt=Klooster Sint Agatha | url=https://www.kloostersintagatha.nl/ | email= | address=Kloosterlaan 24, 5435 XD Sint Agatha | lat=51.7132 | long=5.917 | directions= | phone=+31 485 311 007 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Monasterysintagatha.jpg | wikidata=Q2518390 | content=[[File:Monasterysintagatha.jpg|Monastery Sint Agatha|thumb]] }} * {{see | name=St. Martin's Church | alt=Sint Martinuskerk | url=http://www.martinuscuijk.nl/ | email= | address=Kerkstraat 8, 5431 DS Cuijk | lat=51.72894 | long=5.88283 | directions= | phone=+31 485 312 555 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Sint-Martinuskerk in Cuijk, NL (DSCF7746).jpg | wikidata=Q2246675 | content=[[File:Sint-Martinuskerk in Cuijk, NL (DSCF7746).jpg|St. Martin's Church|thumb]] }} * {{see | name=Korenmolen Jan van Cuijk | alt= | url=http://www.molencuijk.nl/ | email= | address=Heerstraat 4, 5435 PC Sint Agatha | lat=51.72068 | long=5.88964 | directions= | phone=+31 485 318 028 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Cuijk, molen foto8 2011-03-08 10.59.JPG | wikidata=Q3231981 | content=[[File:Cuijk, molen foto8 2011-03-08 10.59.JPG|Korenmolen Jan van Cuijk|thumb]] }} * {{see | name=Heeswijkse Plas | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.74321 | long=5.85401 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Natuurgebied de Zevenhutten | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=51.71569 | long=5.87796 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Museum Ceuclum | alt= | url=http://www.museumceuclum.nl/ | email= | address=Castellum 1, 5431 EM Cuijk | lat=51.72924 | long=5.88335 | directions= | phone=+31 485 322 280 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Stichting Beeldentuin en Heemtuin Cuijk | alt= | url=http://www.beeldentuincuijk.nl/ | email= | address=Kerkstraat 12, 5431 DS Cuijk | lat=51.72951 | long=5.88233 | directions= | phone=+31 6 44098718 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Wereldtuin Verdeliet Land van Cuijk | alt= | url=http://www.verdeliet.nl/ | email= | address=Toermalijnlaan 40, 5431 ZK Cuijk | lat=51.73962 | long=5.86828 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=Monastery Church of St. Agatha | alt=Kloosterkerk H. Agatha | url=http://www.martinuscuijk.nl/agatha.aspx?contentId=5 | email= | address=Kloosterlaan 26, 5435 XD Sint Agatha | lat=51.71347 | long=5.91686 | directions= | phone=+31 485 312 555 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{see | name=H Lambertuskerk | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kerkeveld 2, 5437 BH Beers | lat=51.72606 | long=5.82638 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Het Boothuys | alt= | url=http://www.hetboothuys.nl/ | email= | address=Lavendel 535, 5432 CZ Cuijk | lat=51.74204 | long=5.85790 | directions= | phone=+31 485 215 041 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=De Kassier | alt= | url=https://www.restaurantdekassier.nl/ | email= | address=Grotestraat 33, 5431 DH Cuijk | lat=51.72840 | long=5.88217 | directions= | phone=+31 485 218 746 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=de Proeflocatie | alt= | url=http://www.deproeflocatie.nl/ | email= | address=Korte Molenstraat 9A, 5431 DT Cuijk | lat=51.72883 | long=5.88071 | directions= | phone=+31 485 310 029 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant Smaak | alt= | url=https://www.smaakcuijk.nl/ | email= | address=Grotestraat 61, 5431 DH Cuijk | lat=51.72682 | long=5.88304 | directions= | phone=+31 485 801 740 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Restaurant Horizon | alt= | url=http://www.horizoncuijk.nl/ | email= | address=Deken van Den Ackerhof 4, 5431 DP Cuijk | lat=51.73038 | long=5.88306 | directions= | phone=+31 485 321 465 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name='t Zusje Cuijk | alt= | url=https://zusje.nl/onze-zusjes/t-zusje-cuijk/?utm_source=Kliks_ZCU&utm_medium=Google+bedrijfsprofiel&utm_campaign=Bezoekers_ZCU&utm_id=Bezoekers_Cuijk | email= | address=Grotestraat 40, 5431 DK Cuijk | lat=51.72917 | long=5.88153 | directions= | phone=+31 485 724 999 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Turks Restaurant Semra | alt= | url=http://www.restaurant-semra.nl/ | email= | address=Maasstraat 7, 5431 EB Cuijk | lat=51.72863 | long=5.88274 | directions= | phone=+31 485 315 052 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=De Looierij | alt= | url=http://www.delooierijcuijk.nl/ | email= | address=Deken van Den Ackerhof 14, 5431 DP Cuijk | lat=51.73026 | long=5.88183 | directions= | phone=+31 485 316 720 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Évive Aan Het Water | alt= | url=http://www.restaurantevive.nl/ | email= | address=Lange Linden 35a, 5433 NB Katwijk | lat=51.74806 | long=5.84842 | directions= | phone=+31 6 57412312 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Cafe de Posthoorn | alt= | url=http://www.cafedeposthoorncuijk.nl/ | email= | address=Maasstraat 1, 5431 EB Cuijk | lat=51.72861 | long=5.88225 | directions= | phone=+31 485 210 646 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Brasserie 't Heere Huys | alt= | url=http://www.heerehuys-cuijk.nl/ | email= | address=Louis Jansenplein 14, 5431 BV Cuijk | lat=51.72914 | long=5.87957 | directions= | phone=+31 485 313 072 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name= Pannenkoekenhuis De 7 Dwergen Cuijk | alt= | url=https://www.dezevendwergen.nl/ | email= | address=Odiliadijk 6, 5435 XA Sint Agatha | lat=51.71857 | long=5.89627 | directions= | phone=+31 485 350 228 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name= IJs en spijs | alt= | url=http://www.ijsenspijs.nl/ | email= | address=Burgemeester van Hultenstraat 1A, 5443 AP Haps | lat=51.68853 | long=5.86111 | directions= | phone=+31 485 321 913 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Herberghe de Pannecoecke | alt= | url=http://www.pannenkoekenhuislinden.nl | email= | address=Kerkstraat 11, 5439 NC Linden | lat=51.74918 | long=5.83087 | directions= | phone=+31 485 314378 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Bistro Romein aan het water | alt= | url=https://romeinaanhetwater.nl/ | email= | address=Hardweg 15, 5439 NG Linden | lat=51.75165 | long=5.82687 | directions= | phone=+31 6 11470182 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Hotel Taurus | alt= | url=https://www.hotel-taurus.nl/ | email= | address=Grotestraat 58, 5431 DL Cuijk | lat=51.72858 | long=5.88184 | directions= | phone=+31 485 312 070 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Van der Valk Hotel Cuijk - Nijmegen | alt= | url=https://www.hotelcuijk.nl/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb_cuijk | email= | address=Raamweg 10, 5431 NH Cuijk | lat=51.73551 | long=5.84730 | directions= | phone=+31 485 335 123 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Boutique Hotel & Restaurant De Bungelaer | alt= | url=http://www.debungelaer.nl | email= | address=De Bungelaar 4, 5437 PM Beers | lat=51.73124 | long=5.82053 | directions= | phone=+31 485 232250 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=EuroParcs De Kraaijenbergse Plassen | alt= | url=https://www.europarcs.nl/vakantieparken/nederland/noord-brabant/de-kraaijenbergse-plassen?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=park | email= | address=Den Drul 19, 5439 NR Linden | lat=51.74264 | long=5.83948 | directions= | phone=+31 88 0709080| tollfree= | fax= | checkin=15:00 | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Landgoed De Barendonk | alt= | url=http://www.barendonk.nl/ | email= | address=Millseweg 13, 5437 NB Beers | lat=51.70924 | long=5.81261 | directions= | phone=+31 485 316436 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=14:00 | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Kampeerboerderij De Tienmorgen | alt= | url=https://www.detienmorgen.nl | email= | address=Broekkant 11, 5437 ND Beers | lat=51.71681 | long=5.79329 | directions= | phone=+31 485 312997| tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Watersport Camping 't Loo | alt= | url=http://www.campinghetloo.nl | email= | address=Hardweg 10 5439 NG Linden| lat=51.75091 | long=5.82782 | directions= | phone=+31 485 312003| tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Camping D'n Driehoek | alt= | url=https://campingdriehoekbeers.nl | email= | address=Leuvert 19, 5437 AG Beers| lat=51.72267 | long=5.84010 | directions= | phone=+31 6 20577023| tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Naturistencamping 'Achter ut Huus' | alt=Naturistencamping-FKK | url=https://achteruthuus.nl/ | email= | address=Dommelsvoort 7, 5437 PC Beers| lat=51.73154 | long=5.83519 | directions= | phone=+31 485 312996| tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ==Connect== ==Go next== * [[Boxmeer]] * [[Gennep]] * [[Grave]] * [[Heumen]] * [[Mill en Sint Hubert]] * [[Mook en Middelaar]] * [[Sint Anthonis]] {{outlinecity}} {{IsPartOf|North Brabant}} {{geo|51.7269|5.8794}} dedw586tz6xd9n5y0diap4vrsnfenwb 0 210391 5091156 5053519 2025-07-11T02:21:35Z Mickie-Mickie 1627138 /* Malaysia */ grammar: (in)definite article conflict 5091156 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner| Golok river banner Bridge.jpg}} Travelling from [[Bangkok]] to [[Singapore]] in [[Southeast Asia]], or vice versa, takes you across a journey over the Malay peninsula, and lets you see three countries in one go: [[Thailand]], [[Malaysia]], and Singapore. == Understand == Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore are three countries with three different vibes - on the southern end of this journey is Singapore, where in between its concrete jungles is an atmosphere emphasizing on cleanliness and orderliness, and on the other end is Thailand, a place best described as 'fun, free and wild'. In between these two countries lies Malaysia, blending the atmospheres of both Singapore and Thailand. As you journey through this route, the landscape around you also gradually changes. Heading down south from Bangkok, you will find endless patches of farmland and palm plantations, rainforests and mountains, in between major cities such as [[Hat Yai]], [[Kuala Lumpur]], and [[Malacca]], until you arrive at Singapore. With the exception of Thailand, the only Southeast Asian nation to not be colonized, both Malaysia and Singapore are former British colonies. However, all three countries drive on the left. == Prepare == Citizens from most Western countries, [[Latin America]], [[Japan]], [[South Korea]], and ASEAN member states can visit all three countries without a visa. [[Myanmar|Burmese]] nationals can apply for a Malaysian 30-day e-Visa while [[Israel|Israeli]] nationals are '''barred''' from entering Malaysia. As of 2025, all three countries require foreigners to fill in a '''Digital Arrival card'''. However, if you are a citizen of Singapore, or are a Permanent Resident or Long-Term Pass Holder in either Singapore or Malaysia, you are exempt from submitting the digital arrival card for either one or both countries. For more details, see [[Thailand#Get in|Thailand - Get in]], [[Malaysia#Get in|Malaysia - Get in]] and [[Singapore#Get in|Singapore - Get in]]. All three countries uses different currencies - the Thai baht (฿), Malaysian ringgit (RM), and Singapore dollar (S$). There are plenty of ATMs along the way, and you can find them in cities. Credit cards are widely accepted too. You can also find currency exchanges in shopping malls, which usually offer better rates than those at the airport or border. As a general rule, goods in Thailand are cheaper than goods in Malaysia, and goods in Malaysia are cheaper than goods in Singapore. Therefore, if you visit the border regions during weekends, you can see lots of people coming from the other side to stock up on everyday goods. You can use international SIM cards or use an eSIM service to save yourself the hassle of changing SIM cards whenever you enter a new country. == Talk == [[Thai phrasebook|Thai]] is the main language of Thailand, but in the southern region of Thailand, especially the provinces in the deep south, the local Malay population might be able to speak a dialect of [[Malay phrasebook|Malay]] (similar to [[Kelantan]] or [[Kedah]] Malay, depending on province). Furthermore, in places heavily frequented by Malaysians such as [[Hat Yai]] and [[Betong]], you can frequently hear Malay, [[Chinese phrasebook|Mandarin]], [[Cantonese phrasebook|Cantonese]] or [[Minnan phrasebook|Hokkien]]. In Bangkok, people who serve tourists regularly usually speak some basic English. Things become significantly easier as you cross the border into Malaysia. Malay is the official language, but English is widely spoken by middle-to-upper class Malaysians, particularly in the major cities. Mandarin and various Chinese dialects (which vary depending on city) are commonly spoken by the Chinese minority, and [[Tamil phrasebook|Tamil]] is commonly spoken by ethnic Indians. As you arrive in Singapore, you will have no problem communicating with locals as English is the ''lingua franca'' and medium of instruction in local schools, and many even consider it their mother tongue. Additionally, most signage are written in English. == Get in == This trip starts from Bangkok, where you can arrive either by air, land, or sea. See [[Bangkok#Get in|Bangkok - Get in]] for more details. You can also try going northwards from Singapore, in this case either by air or sea. == Go == Unlike in [[Europe]] where direct trains between capitals exists, here you have to switch trains. As of 2025, even the luxurious [https://www.belmond.com/trains/asia/eastern-and-oriental-express/ '''Eastern and Oriental Express'''] no longer runs the Bangkok-Singapore route, instead offering excursions into Malaysia. === [[Bangkok]] to [[Kuala Lumpur]] === [[File:Padang Besar 21.jpg|thumb|People queuing up for immigration at Padang Besar railway station.]] The first leg of the trip connects you with the Thai capital of Bangkok to the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur, and takes at least one to two days. There are several border towns for you to choose from, depending on how adventurous you are. * The route via [[Padang Besar (Malaysia)|Padang Besar]] is most convenient because there is a train station where both Thai and Malaysian immigration are located. From here, you can directly transfer to Malaysian rail lines. As of 2025, train no. 45 leaves Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal at 16:22, passes through Hat Yai at 06:35 the next day, and arrives at Padang Besar at 08:05. After arriving at Padang Besar, you can either continue by rail onwards to [[Penang]] as a stop, or head directly towards Kuala Lumpur. [[File:Bangkok Railway Station IMG 7345.jpg|thumb|The Thaksin Express in Bangkok, southbound for the border terminus of Sungai Kolok.]] * Alternatively, from [[Hat Yai]], there are long-distance bus services to Penang and Kuala Lumpur, passing through [[Bukit Kayu Hitam]]. On the Thai side of the border lies [[Sadao|Dannok]], which is primarily a nightlife town for Malaysians to go wild. * Hat Yai also has frequent bus/minivan services to [[Betong]], another border town that is frequented by Malaysian tourists because of its cool weather. If you decide to stop over at Betong, note that the border is quite some distance away, so you need to negotiate with a tuk-tuk driver to take you there. After crossing the Malaysian border, you will then need a taxi to take you to Pengkalan Hulu, the closest town with bus services to Kuala Lumpur. * Lastly, you can take the Thaksin Express from Bangkok directly to Thailand's southernmost town of [[Sungai Kolok]], separated from the town of [[Rantau Panjang]] by a river. You enter Malaysia via a bridge, and from there, you can take taxis to [[Kota Bharu]] in Kelantan. Feel free to stop by and check out the unique Kelantanese architecture and cuisine, before continuing to Kuala Lumpur by bus. * A more creative approach would be arriving at [[Ko Lipe]] from Hat Yai, spending a few days on the idyllic island, and then entering Malaysia via the similarly popular resort island of [[Langkawi]]. From there, there are ferry services to the state of [[Kedah]]. === [[Kuala Lumpur]] to [[Singapore]] === [[File:Johor–Singapore Causeway.jpg|thumb|The Johor-Singapore Causeway at night. Note the heavy traffic - a daily reality for some.]] The second leg of the trip takes you from the vibrant city of KL to the similarly vibrant city-state of Singapore. It takes 5-6 hours but it can be significantly longer depending on traffic, as the Malaysia-Singapore border crossings are among the busiest in the world, due to Malaysians heading into Singapore to work, and Singaporeans going north for cheaper goods and services. A rapid transit link between the two cities is under construction, but until then, buses are the most popular and cheapest way to enter Singapore. There are frequent services from Kuala Lumpur's '''Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) bus terminal''', the historic state of [[Malacca (state)|Malacca]], as well as the southernmost state of [[Johor]]. Your bus may cross one of the two land checkpoints into Singapore: * The Johor-Singapore Causeway, by some measures the busiest border crossing in the world, is where most buses from [[Johor Bahru]] will go. You will pass through the '''Woodlands Checkpoint''' before entering Singapore. * The Malaysia-Singapore Second Link, opened on 1998 to alleviate traffic of the causeway, is where most buses from [[Iskandar Puteri]] will go. It is known as '''Tuas Checkpoint'''. == Highlights == === Thailand === * [[Bangkok]], the 'City of Angels' full with temples and street food. The royal palace, Wat Pho and Wat Phra Kaew are the city's most visited attractions, while [[Bangkok/Yaowarat and Phahurat|Yaowarat]] offers you a glimpse into Thai-Chinese culture. * [[Hat Yai]] is the largest city in southern Thailand, boasting a floating market and a morning market, while neighboring [[Songkhla]] offers a beach and an old town. * [[Betong]] is surrounded by hills and is known for its cool climate and Chinese cuisine. The town is also multicultural - you can find Thais, Malays and Chinese residents living in harmony. The main attraction here is the underground tunnels of the former Malayan Communist Party. * [[Sungai Kolok]] is as Malay as you can get without leaving Thailand. The Malays in the deep south of Thailand speak a similar dialect to the Malays of neighboring [[Kelantan]], so many locals would listen to Kelantanese music. * [[Ko Lipe]] is known as the '[[Maldives]] of Thailand', and for good reason. Its white beaches and crystal clear waters attract tourists from all over the world, but getting there is quite a hassle due to distance and transportation. Therefore, tourists who visit Ko Lipe tend to also visit Langkawi and head southwards to Malaysia. === Malaysia === * [[Penang]] is the 'foodie capital' of Malaysia, while the old quarters of [[George Town (Malaysia)|George Town]] is a {{UNESCO}}. Don't forget to stop by Armenian Street, best known for the mural of two kids on a bicycle. * [[Ipoh]], the capital of the state of Perak, is surrounded by mountains. The town is majority Chinese, as such the flair is similar to that of George Town. Aside from natural attractions, there are landmarks left over by the British, and many delicacies that were developed by the locals. * [[Kuala Lumpur]], or just KL, the capital city dotted with iconic skyscrapers such as the Petronas Twin Towers, Merdeka 118 and KL Tower. Head to [[Kuala Lumpur/North of City Centre|Kampung Baru]] to experience traditional Malay food and culture, [[Kuala Lumpur/Old City Centre|Petaling Street]] for Chinese, and [[Kuala Lumpur/Brickfields and Bangsar|Brickfields]] (Little India) for Indian. * [[Klang]], the royal capital of [[Selangor]], is known for a fragrant pork soup known as ''bak kut teh'' (肉骨茶, 'pork bone tea'), and the largest Little India in Malaysia. * [[Malacca]], another {{UNESCO}}, was the capital of a powerful Malay kingdom, and bustling international trading port in its heyday. Subsequent Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonization each left their marks, now turned into tourist attractions. Its landmark is the Porta de Santiago, better known as 'A Famosa'. Unique communities include the Peranakans, who are of mixed Chinese and Malay heritage, and the Eurasians, who are of mixed European (mostly Portuguese) and Asian heritage. * [[Johor Bahru]], commonly shortened to JB, is the capital of the state of Johor, and it is a highly-urbanized city on par with KL. Landmarks include the palaces where the Johor royalty resides. === Singapore === * The last (or first) stop of your trip. Pay the city-state's mascot the Merlion a visit, and hang out on the [[Singapore/Marina Bay|Marina Bay]]. The city's [[Singapore/Chinatown|Chinatown]] gives a quite different vibe compared to both Yaowarat and Petaling Street, and there's a [[Singapore/Little India|Little India]] too. Because of shared cultural heritage, the food in both Malaysia and Singapore is similar, but it's best to not compare them both openly in front of a Malaysian or Singaporean - imagine siblings quarreling over who's better, and you get the idea. == Stay safe == [[Southern Thailand]] is generally safe with the exception of the deep south, that is, the provinces of [[Pattani]], [[Yala]], and [[Narathiwat]], where there is an ongoing separatist insurgency, but tourists are not the target of the violence. Exercise caution when entering Yala towards Betong, or Narathiwat towards Sungai Kolok. Insurgents often target public institutions such as police stations and government offices. Instances are uncommon but not rare either. There are checkpoints along the highway, manned by armed troops, where all vehicles are inspected. While they're quite used to Malaysian tourists, expect a few more questions if you look more foreign. If somehow they advise you to not go further, it may be for the best. At the Thailand-Malaysia border crossing, Thai immigration officers may ask you for a bribe, usually by flashing a peace sign. That means RM2 or 20 baht, paid only in cash, although they might expect U.S. dollars if you are white. If you refuse to pay up, they'll suddenly find 'issues' with your passport, and they are in no hurry to let you go. If coming from Thailand, try to observe the queue of Malaysian tourists and see if they have snuck two RM1 banknotes inside their passports - a great indication of whether the border guards at the outpost are corrupt. == Go next == [[Singapore]] is a major transportation hub, thus there are flights to regions around the world, and ferries to the nearby Indonesian islands of [[Batam]] and [[Bintan]]. For Southeast Asia, there are flights to [[Indonesia]], [[Philippines|the Philippines]], [[Brunei]], and [[Timor-Leste|East Timor]]. Alternatively, if you end your journey in Bangkok, you can continue heading towards [[Chiang Mai]], [[Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City overland|overland towards Ho Chi Minh City via Cambodia]], or simply go to [[Laos]]. dj1t9a4bhneh89ga08vchrjym2ogjfk 0 210421 5091045 5090098 2025-07-10T20:08:33Z Bluecoordinationfine 2327039 Removed tilde, these are always estimates 5091045 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Is09067-Góry Tęczowe (cropped).jpg}} The '''Laugavegur''' leads from [[Landmannalaugar]] to [[Þórsmörk]] in Iceland. Those who wish can continue over the Fimmvörðuháls pass to [[Skógar]]. The area lies in the Fjallabak region between the Vatnajökull and the Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. ==Understand== [[Image:Iceland Landmannalaugar-01.JPG|thumb|Landmannalaugar]] This hike is one of the top trails in the world. It is very diverse and leads through various landscapes that change in type and color. Green moss-covered lava mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, rivers, and steaming hot springs accompany the hiker during their tour. Only trees are absent here, except for dwarf birch forests in Þórsmörk. The tour is about 51 km long and takes around 4 days. Only parts of it are uphill. The trek is not particularly difficult and suitable for beginners with endurance. You can camp or stay in huts (fee up to 7,500 [[Iceland#Money|kr]]). A reservation is essential. The huts have a kitchen with cooking utensils, but food must be brought by the hiker. === Signposting === The trail is very well marked, getting lost is hardly possible. == Prepare == It's best to stock up on supplies beforehand. There is only a small shop with a very limited selection in Landmannalaugar and at the end of the hike in Þórsmörk. Water can be taken from streams. == Get in == From Reykjavík, a [http://www.bsi.is bus] departs in the morning to Landmannalaugar (approx. 3 hr, in high summer possibly reserve in advance). == Walk == {{Mapframe}} {{mapshape|type=geoline|wikidata=Q151268|stroke=#04649c|stroke-width=3|title=Laugavegur}} {{mapshape|type=geoline|wikidata=Q748270|stroke=#9c0404 |stroke-width=3|title=Fimmvörðuháls}} === Landmannalaugar - Hrafntinnusker === 11 km, 6 hr The route leads through the lava field Laugahraun. From there up the slopes of Brennisteinsalda; a detour to the summit is possible. The view offers an incredible spectrum of colors. After 3 to 4 hours you reach Stórihver, a hot spring and actually the only green spot far and wide. Most of the rest of the trail to the hut is usually covered in snow. The chance of fog is high. Although the trail is well marked, caution is necessary. Upon arriving at Hrafntinnusker Hut, you should definitely take a walk to the ice caves (approx. 1.5 km). However, entering can be life-threatening as the glacier is constantly moving. * {{listing|counter=n|name=Landmannalaugar hut |type=sleep|wikidata=Q114736535|url=https://nat.is/landmannalaugar/}} * {{listing|counter=n|name=Hrafntinnusker hut|type=sleep|wikidata=Q134072799|url=https://nat.is/hrafntinnusker-mountain-hut/}} === Hrafntinnusker - Álftavatn === 11 km, 5 hr The first part of the trail leads through a valley with some small gorges. Caution is advised as they may be covered with snow. If visibility is good, a detour to the summit of Háskerðingur (1281 m) is worthwhile. Now you leave the colourful rhyolite mountains behind and enter a darker area of mountain and glacier landscape. Vegetation increases significantly. The path down into Jökultungur is quite steep, but then you reach an oasis on the bank of the Grashagakvísl river, a spot inviting you to rest. From there, the trail to the two huts at Lake Álftavatn is almost level. * {{listing|counter=n|name=Álftavatn hut|type=sleep|wikidata=Q134072961|url=https://nat.is/alftavatn-hut-holtungur/}} === Álftavatn - Botnar === 16 km, 7 hr From here, the trail goes over the ridge Brattháls into the Hvanngil Gorge, and further wading across the Bratthálskvísl river. Then comes the Hvanngil Hut. A short distance further comes the Kaldaklofskvísl with a bridge. Less than a kilometer later, the next river must be forded. After about 4 km, you reach the Nyrðri Emstruá, but this time there is a bridge to cross. It won't take much longer and the stage is over. A nice evening walk is to the Markarfljótsgljúfur Canyon. * {{listing|counter=n|name=Botnar hut|type=sleep|wikidata=Q134073069|url=https://nat.is/ita-mountain-huts-botnar-in-emsttrur/}} === Botnar - Þórsmörk === 13 km, 7 hr The trail curves around the Syðri-Emstruá gorge before descending steeply to a bridge. From there, it leads through the wide plains of Almenningar and across the Þröngá river. As Þórsmörk approaches, the scenery shifts noticeably, with greenery returning to the landscape. Accommodation is available at two huts in Þórsmörk: Skagfjörðsskáli and Básar. From Þórsmörk, many hikers continue over the Fimmvörðuháls pass to Skógar. In good weather, the route is manageable and does not require technical skills or special sure-footedness. It begins with a ridge walk and includes a snowfield crossing of about 200 meters, but neither section is particularly difficult. The route should be avoided in poor weather. The trek to Skógar can be completed in a day if started by 08:00 at the latest. Evening bus connections from Skógar may not be available. Hitchhiking is sometimes possible, though not guaranteed (success reported after 12 cars in 1½ hours). The local campground was closed in September, but wild camping in the area is generally feasible. * {{listing|counter=n|name=Skagfjordsskali hut|type=sleep|wikidata=Q16426199|url=https://nat.is/ita-mountain-huts-skagafjordsskali-langidalur-thorsmork/}} * {{listing|counter=n|name=Basar hut|type=sleep|wikidata=Q134073266|url=https://nat.is/basar-huts-in-godaland/}} === Þórsmörk - Fimmvörðuháls === 12 km, 5 hr * {{listing|counter=n|name=Fimmvörðuháls hut|type=sleep|wikidata=Q134073625|url=https://nat.is/fimmvorduhals-mountain-hut-utivist/}} === Fimmvörðuháls - Skógar === 12 km, 5 hr Towards {{Marker|name=Skógar|wikidata=Q985810|type=go}}. == Go next == * Head south to the South Coast of Iceland, with sights like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the black sand beaches of [[Vík í Mýrdal]], and the glacier lagoons near Jökulsárlón. * Explore [[Reykjavík]], Iceland's capital, which offers museums, restaurants, and easy access to the Golden Circle highlights such as Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss. * For more remote hiking, consider the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the Westfjords, known for its isolation, wildlife, and dramatic cliffs. {{usableitinerary}} {{PartOfItinerary|Europe itineraries}} bu26zeeoe4wqatxlhqvnsp70izw9qpx 5 210640 5090784 5089461 2025-07-10T13:10:09Z LPfi 79572 /* Listings */ having the listings in the leg description is sometimes useful - some different cases 5090784 wikitext text/x-wiki == OpenStreetMap integration == OpenStreetMap offers significantly more data that could enhance our trail guides, though it’s unclear what licensing or usage agreements would apply in these cases. Examples of useful data include: * Distance (km) for each stage * Elevation change and elevation profiles * Estimated hiking time * Complete trail mappings, including sub-relations It’s worth noting that for most long-distance trails covered on Wikivoyage, the corresponding OpenStreetMap relations are already segmented in a way that aligns well with our guide format. The main exceptions are the Appalachian Trail and the GR 10, which are not divided into logical sections (for our purposes). [[User:Jpolvto|Jpolvto]] ([[User talk:Jpolvto|talk]]) 16:58, 4 May 2025 (UTC) :The OSM licences are designed to make reuse possible, but I haven't checked their licensing terms in detail. Much of what we use are data collections rather than literature (maps are counted as such, at least in Finland), and data, I think, isn't protected in the USA. In EU there is the neighbouring database right protecting it, so we should respect the licensing terms (otherwise our EU contributors may have difficulties editing that aspect of our articles). Some uses require attribution; note the "OSM contributors" attribution included by default at the bottom of our dynamic maps. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:56, 5 May 2025 (UTC) == Scripts == For fetching data: <syntaxhighlight lang="python"> #!/usr/bin/env python3 """ Download + cache the elevation profile for an OSM hiking super‑route. The pickled result looks like: { "df": pandas.DataFrame, # elevation profile (dist_km / elev_m) "breaks": list[float], # stage‑boundary distances, *including 0.0* "labels": list[str], # place‑names, same length as breaks } USAGE python fetch_profile.py # default Lapplandsleden python fetch_profile.py -r 123456 -o mytrail.pkl """ import argparse import itertools import math import pickle import random import time from pathlib import Path import overpy import pandas as pd import requests from pyproj import Geod from shapely.geometry import LineString from shapely.ops import linemerge # ─── static config ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── # DENSIFY_SPACING_M = 50 DEM_ENDPOINT = "https://api.opentopodata.org/v1/mapzen" # global 90 m DEM_BATCH_LIMIT = 50 DELAY_BETWEEN_CALLS = 1.0 MAX_DEM_RETRIES = 4 BASE_BACKOFF_S = 2.5 DEFAULT_RELATION = 13439996 # Lapplandsleden super‑route DEFAULT_OUTFILE = Path("lapplandsleden_profile.pkl") # ───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── # api = overpy.Overpass(max_retry_count=3, retry_timeout=30) geod = Geod(ellps="WGS84") def chunks(it, size): """Yield successive *size*‑element chunks from *it*.""" it = iter(it) while (batch := list(itertools.islice(it, size))): yield batch def fetch_elevations(points): """Call the DEM API once for the provided shapely Points.""" locs = "|".join(f"{p.y},{p.x}" for p in points) url = f"{DEM_ENDPOINT}?locations={locs}" for attempt in range(MAX_DEM_RETRIES): r = requests.get(url, timeout=20) if r.ok and r.headers.get("content-type", "").startswith("application/json"): return [res.get("elevation") for res in r.json()["results"]] if r.status_code in (429, 503): # throttled / service busy back = BASE_BACKOFF_S * (1.7 ** attempt) + random.uniform(0, 0.5) print(f"[elev] {r.status_code} – sleeping {back:.1f}s") time.sleep(back) continue raise RuntimeError( f"DEM call failed {r.status_code}: {r.text[:120]!r}") raise RuntimeError("DEM retries exhausted") def stage_relations(super_id: int): """Return the stage relations that make up an OSM super‑route, in their defined order.""" # 1. Fetch the super-relation itself to get its ordered list of members query_super_rel = f""" [out:json][timeout:120]; relation({super_id}); out body; // 'body' includes the relation's members in their defined order """ result_super_rel = api.query(query_super_rel) if not result_super_rel.relations: raise RuntimeError(f"Super-relation {super_id} not found.") super_relation = result_super_rel.relations[0] stage_rel_ids_ordered = [] for member in super_relation.members: # CORRECTED LINE: Use isinstance to check the type of the member object. # This assumes 'RelationRelation' is exposed by 'import overpy' as 'overpy.RelationRelation' # which is standard in recent versions. if isinstance(member, overpy.RelationRelation): # 'ref' attribute gives the ID of the member stage_rel_ids_ordered.append(member.ref) if not stage_rel_ids_ordered: raise RuntimeError( f"No stage relations found as members of the super-relation {super_id}.") # 2. Fetch the details (IDs and tags) for these stage relations # (The rest of the function remains the same as the previous corrected version) id_query_part = "".join( [f"relation({rel_id});" for rel_id in stage_rel_ids_ordered]) query_stages = f""" [out:json][timeout:120]; ( {id_query_part} ); out ids tags; """ result_stages = api.query(query_stages) rels_by_id = {rel.id: rel for rel in result_stages.relations} ordered_rels = [] for rel_id in stage_rel_ids_ordered: if rel_id in rels_by_id: ordered_rels.append(rels_by_id[rel_id]) else: print( f"[warning] Stage relation {rel_id} (member of {super_id}) was not found or couldn't be fetched.") if not ordered_rels: raise RuntimeError( f"Although {len(stage_rel_ids_ordered)} stage relation(s) were listed in super-relation {super_id}, none could be fetched.") return ordered_rels def relation_line(rel_id: int): """Fetch full geometry of a relation as a merged LineString.""" q = f""" [out:json][timeout:120]; relation({rel_id}); way(r)->.w; (.w;>;); out geom; """ ways = api.query(q).ways return linemerge([LineString([(n.lon, n.lat) for n in w.nodes]) for w in ways]) def densify(line, spacing=DENSIFY_SPACING_M): """Return evenly‑spaced points along *line* (shapely LineString).""" length = geod.geometry_length(line) steps = max(1, math.ceil(length / spacing)) return [line.interpolate(t / steps, normalized=True) for t in range(steps + 1)] def build_profile(super_id: int): """Build the distance/elevation profile for a super‑route relation.""" rows = [] breaks = [0.0] # start at 0 km labels = [] # will capture the first 'from' label here total_m = 0.0 for rel in stage_relations(super_id): sid = rel.id sfrom = rel.tags.get("from", "?") sto = rel.tags.get("to", "?") if not labels: # first loop = trail start labels.append(sfrom) # aligns with 0 km in breaks print(f"[stage] {sid}: {sfrom} → {sto}") pts = densify(relation_line(sid)) elev = [] for batch in chunks(pts, DEM_BATCH_LIMIT): elev.extend(fetch_elevations(batch)) time.sleep(DELAY_BETWEEN_CALLS) seg_m = 0.0 for i, (p, z) in enumerate(zip(pts, elev)): if i: seg_m += geod.inv(pts[i-1].x, pts[i-1].y, p.x, p.y)[2] rows.append({ "dist_km": (total_m + seg_m) / 1_000, "elev_m": z, }) total_m += geod.geometry_length(relation_line(sid)) breaks.append(total_m / 1_000) # arrival at stage finish labels.append(sto) df = (pd.DataFrame(rows) .infer_objects(copy=False) .apply(pd.to_numeric, errors="coerce")) df["elev_m"] = (df["elev_m"] .interpolate(limit_direction="both") .bfill().ffill() .round() .astype("Int64")) return { "df": df, "breaks": breaks, "labels": labels, } def main(): cli = argparse.ArgumentParser( description="Fetch & cache trail elevation profile.") cli.add_argument("-r", "--relation", type=int, default=DEFAULT_RELATION, help="OSM relation ID of the super‑route") cli.add_argument("-o", "--outfile", type=Path, default=DEFAULT_OUTFILE, help="Where to store the pickled profile") args = cli.parse_args() bundle = build_profile(args.relation) with open(args.outfile, "wb") as f: pickle.dump(bundle, f) print(f"[saved] {args.outfile} ({bundle['df'].shape[0]:,} points)") if __name__ == "__main__": main() </syntaxhighlight> For creating wikitext/matplotlib elevation profile: <syntaxhighlight lang="python"> #!/usr/bin/env python3 """ Emit Wikivoyage‑ready stage descriptions **and** save a Matplotlib elevation profile PNG (with vertical annotations). Design goals ============ * **Single frame:** Only one X‑axis and one Y‑axis, intersecting at the origin (0 km, 0 m). Top and right spines remain hidden. * **Numeric kilometre ticks preserved** on the bottom axis. * **Stage labels shown on a secondary (invisible) top axis** so they don’t crowd the profile and numeric ticks coexist. * **No raster/grid** background. Run ``python plot_profile.py -h`` for CLI details. """ from __future__ import annotations import argparse import pickle from pathlib import Path from typing import List import matplotlib.pyplot as plt from matplotlib import ticker import pandas as pd from scipy.signal import savgol_filter # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- # Constants ----------------------------------------------------------------- DEFAULT_INFILE = Path("lapplandsleden_profile.pkl") DEFAULT_IMG = Path("profile.png") HALF_CHAR = "½" # typographic half‑symbol SMOOTH_WIN = 81 # global Savitzky–Golay window (odd) SMOOTH_ORDER = 2 # polynomial order for S‑G filter # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- # Formatting helpers -------------------------------------------------------- def format_km(km: float, decimals: int = 1) -> str: return f"{km:.{decimals}f}".rstrip("0").rstrip(".") def format_hours(hours: float) -> str: hrs = round(hours * 2) / 2 # nearest 0.5 h whole = int(hrs) return f"{whole}\u202Fh" if hrs % 1 == 0 else f"{whole}{HALF_CHAR}\u202Fh" def duration_naismith(dist_km: float, gain_m: float) -> float: """Naismith rule: 4 km h⁻¹ on the flat + 600 m ascent h⁻¹.""" return dist_km / 4.0 + gain_m / 600.0 # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- # Stage description generator ---------------------------------------------- def build_descriptions(df: pd.DataFrame, breaks: List[float], labels: List[str]) -> str: """Return Wikivoyage‑style === PlaceA – PlaceB === blocks.""" start_dists = breaks[:-1] end_dists = breaks[1:] start_names = labels[:-1] end_names = labels[1:] thr = 1 # ignore ±1 m noise in cumulative gain/loss blocks: list[str] = [] for s_name, e_name, d0, d1 in zip(start_names, end_names, start_dists, end_dists): seg = df.loc[(df["dist_km"] >= d0) & ( df["dist_km"] <= d1)].reset_index(drop=True) dist_km = d1 - d0 diffs = seg["elev_smoothed"].diff().fillna(0) gain_m = int(round(diffs[diffs > thr].sum())) loss_m = int(round(-diffs[diffs < -thr].sum())) time_h = duration_naismith(dist_km, gain_m) blocks.append( f"=== {s_name} – {e_name} ===\n" f"; Distance : {format_km(dist_km)}\u202Fkm\n" f"; Duration : {format_hours(time_h)}\n" f"; Elevation gain : ↥\u202F{gain_m}\u202Fm\n" f"; Elevation loss : ↧\u202F{loss_m}\u202Fm\n" ) return "\n".join(blocks) # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- # Matplotlib chart builder --------------------------------------------------- def make_matplotlib_chart( df: pd.DataFrame, breaks: List[float], labels: List[str], *, outfile: Path = DEFAULT_IMG, width_in: float = 8, height_in: float = 3, dpi: int = 150, km_tick: int | None = 25, # distance between numeric ticks ) -> Path: """Draw profile and save to *outfile*. - Bottom axis: numeric kilometre ticks. - Top (secondary) axis: stage labels (vertical text). - Single visible frame (left & bottom spines) at origin; no grid. """ fig, ax = plt.subplots(figsize=(width_in, height_in), dpi=dpi) # Profile line ---------------------------------------------------------- ax.plot(df["dist_km"], df["elev_smoothed"], linewidth=1.2) # Axes spines at origin -------------------------------------------------- ax.spines["left"].set_position("zero") ax.spines["bottom"].set_position("zero") ax.spines["right"].set_visible(False) ax.spines["top"].set_visible(False) ax.xaxis.set_ticks_position("bottom") ax.yaxis.set_ticks_position("left") # Numeric kilometre ticks ---------------------------------------------- if km_tick: ax.xaxis.set_major_locator(ticker.MultipleLocator(km_tick)) # Stage dividers -------------------------------------------------------- for x in breaks: ax.axvline(x=x, color="grey", linestyle="--", linewidth=0.8) # Secondary x‑axis for labels ------------------------------------------ secax = ax.secondary_xaxis("top") secax.set_xticks(breaks) secax.set_xticklabels(labels, rotation=90, fontsize=8, ha="center", va="bottom") # Hide secondary spine to keep single‑frame aesthetic secax.spines["top"].set_visible(False) secax.spines["right"].set_visible(False) secax.spines["left"].set_visible(False) # Axis limits & labels --------------------------------------------------- y_min, y_max = df["elev_smoothed"].min(), df["elev_smoothed"].max() + 10 ax.set_ylim(min(0, y_min), y_max) ax.set_xlim(0, max(df["dist_km"] + 10)) ax.set_xlabel("Distance (km)") ax.set_ylabel("Elevation (m)") # Layout tweaks ---------------------------------------------------------- fig.tight_layout() fig.subplots_adjust(top=0.60) # space for vertical stage labels fig.savefig(outfile) plt.close(fig) return outfile # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- # CLI ----------------------------------------------------------------------- def main() -> None: cli = argparse.ArgumentParser( description="Emit Wikivoyage stage descriptions and a PNG profile.") cli.add_argument("-i", "--infile", type=Path, default=DEFAULT_INFILE, help="Pickle produced by fetch_profile.py") cli.add_argument("-o", "--output", metavar="FILE.wiki", help="Write description blocks here (default: <infile>.wiki)") cli.add_argument("--img", metavar="FILE.png", type=Path, default=DEFAULT_IMG, help="PNG path for the rendered profile") cli.add_argument("--smooth-window", type=int, default=SMOOTH_WIN, help="Savitzky–Golay window length (odd)") cli.add_argument("--smooth-order", type=int, default=SMOOTH_ORDER, help="Savitzky–Golay polynomial order") cli.add_argument("--km-tick", type=int, default=25, help="Distance between numeric kilometre ticks (default 25)") args = cli.parse_args() # Validate pickle -------------------------------------------------------- if not args.infile.exists(): raise SystemExit( f"Cache {args.infile} not found – run fetch_profile.py first.") with open(args.infile, "rb") as f: bundle = pickle.load(f) df: pd.DataFrame = bundle["df"] breaks: List[float] = bundle["breaks"] labels: List[str] = bundle["labels"] # Smooth elevation ------------------------------------------------------ df = df.copy() df["elev_smoothed"] = savgol_filter( df["elev_m"].to_numpy(float), window_length=max(3, args.smooth_window | 1), # force odd polyorder=args.smooth_order, mode="nearest", ) # Outputs --------------------------------------------------------------- img_path = make_matplotlib_chart( df, breaks, labels, outfile=args.img, km_tick=args.km_tick) desc_path = Path( args.output) if args.output else args.infile.with_suffix(".wiki") desc_path.write_text(build_descriptions( df, breaks, labels) + "\n", encoding="utf-8") print(f"[saved] {desc_path}\n[saved] {img_path}") # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- if __name__ == "__main__": main() </syntaxhighlight> [[User:Jpolvto|4720d877-0865-4bdc-99b8-1443ac9f93a6]] ([[User talk:Jpolvto|talk]]) 10:55, 9 May 2025 (UTC) == Listings == I’ve been thinking about listings for a while. While they’re a staple of traditional printed hiking guides, using them on Wikivoyage sometimes feels a bit off. One issue is duplication. When trails share sections, like the Kungsleden and Nordkalottleden, the same listings end up appearing multiple times. Another challenge is how listings are presented. Personally, I find that placing full listings at the end of paragraphs can create information overload. For example, if you look at the history of the ''Offa’s Dyke Path'' article, it looked incredibly cluttered to me at one point. I noticed it’s also possible to reference listings like this: <nowiki>[[Stockholm archipelago#Grand Hotel Saltsjöbaden|Hotel Saltsjöbaden]]</nowiki>, which seems like a cleaner approach. But that raises another question. I’m unsure where certain types of listings actually belong. Refuges and mountain huts often feel more connected to the trail than to any specific town or region. Still, I hesitate to place them directly within the itinerary sections either. [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 09:47, 8 July 2025 (UTC) :I don't think the listings cause "information overload" in [[Nordkalottleden]] or [[Södra Kungsleden]]. On the contrary, I think it is nice to see also that information when reading about a specific leg. Of course, it is possible to cause clutter, and when there is a lot to tell about a place, it is usually best to just have a summary there and link the rest. In those cases, the place is often relevant also outside the specific itinerary and can be described in its own article, such as [[Ritsem]] or [[Kvikkjokk]]. I see that you moved out listings from the [[French Way]]; I haven't looked closer. Whether moving away the listings make sense depends on the specific itinerary and the style of the article. :Avoiding having the same information duplicated across articles is a real concern. I'd recommend creating articles for hub locations, unless there is some existing article where the information fits. There was a discussion on overlapping sections somewhere, and I think I stated that covering such a section on a separate page would make sense in many cases. In the cases I have stumbled upon, there either has been some itinerary on (more or less) the specific section, there has been an article on just one of the overlapping trails, or the overlapping has been minor. There certainly are cases, where you'd need to create a page on the overlapping section with no rationale other than avoiding duplication. This mostly works if the trails that overlap are similar. If one is a hiking trail and the other a snowmobile route (sharing sights and huts), then referring readers to the other one doesn't feel right. :–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:10, 10 July 2025 (UTC) == General improvements == Here are a few possible improvements I’ve been thinking about. Some are relatively straightforward, while others may be more technical: * Link dynamic map sections to the corresponding text, so clicking a section on the map scrolls to the relevant paragraph below. * Move listings into separate articles to reduce clutter and keep the trail description more focused. * Create a structured element for section data (such as elevation gain/loss, duration, and distance), since this information is already structured. This could help maintain consistency in the future. [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 09:55, 8 July 2025 (UTC) j3g3h9tj1fxahbkl72prasnmasc7bjm 5090969 5090784 2025-07-10T17:21:13Z Bluecoordinationfine 2327039 /* Listings */ Reply 5090969 wikitext text/x-wiki == OpenStreetMap integration == OpenStreetMap offers significantly more data that could enhance our trail guides, though it’s unclear what licensing or usage agreements would apply in these cases. Examples of useful data include: * Distance (km) for each stage * Elevation change and elevation profiles * Estimated hiking time * Complete trail mappings, including sub-relations It’s worth noting that for most long-distance trails covered on Wikivoyage, the corresponding OpenStreetMap relations are already segmented in a way that aligns well with our guide format. The main exceptions are the Appalachian Trail and the GR 10, which are not divided into logical sections (for our purposes). [[User:Jpolvto|Jpolvto]] ([[User talk:Jpolvto|talk]]) 16:58, 4 May 2025 (UTC) :The OSM licences are designed to make reuse possible, but I haven't checked their licensing terms in detail. Much of what we use are data collections rather than literature (maps are counted as such, at least in Finland), and data, I think, isn't protected in the USA. In EU there is the neighbouring database right protecting it, so we should respect the licensing terms (otherwise our EU contributors may have difficulties editing that aspect of our articles). Some uses require attribution; note the "OSM contributors" attribution included by default at the bottom of our dynamic maps. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:56, 5 May 2025 (UTC) == Scripts == For fetching data: <syntaxhighlight lang="python"> #!/usr/bin/env python3 """ Download + cache the elevation profile for an OSM hiking super‑route. The pickled result looks like: { "df": pandas.DataFrame, # elevation profile (dist_km / elev_m) "breaks": list[float], # stage‑boundary distances, *including 0.0* "labels": list[str], # place‑names, same length as breaks } USAGE python fetch_profile.py # default Lapplandsleden python fetch_profile.py -r 123456 -o mytrail.pkl """ import argparse import itertools import math import pickle import random import time from pathlib import Path import overpy import pandas as pd import requests from pyproj import Geod from shapely.geometry import LineString from shapely.ops import linemerge # ─── static config ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── # DENSIFY_SPACING_M = 50 DEM_ENDPOINT = "https://api.opentopodata.org/v1/mapzen" # global 90 m DEM_BATCH_LIMIT = 50 DELAY_BETWEEN_CALLS = 1.0 MAX_DEM_RETRIES = 4 BASE_BACKOFF_S = 2.5 DEFAULT_RELATION = 13439996 # Lapplandsleden super‑route DEFAULT_OUTFILE = Path("lapplandsleden_profile.pkl") # ───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── # api = overpy.Overpass(max_retry_count=3, retry_timeout=30) geod = Geod(ellps="WGS84") def chunks(it, size): """Yield successive *size*‑element chunks from *it*.""" it = iter(it) while (batch := list(itertools.islice(it, size))): yield batch def fetch_elevations(points): """Call the DEM API once for the provided shapely Points.""" locs = "|".join(f"{p.y},{p.x}" for p in points) url = f"{DEM_ENDPOINT}?locations={locs}" for attempt in range(MAX_DEM_RETRIES): r = requests.get(url, timeout=20) if r.ok and r.headers.get("content-type", "").startswith("application/json"): return [res.get("elevation") for res in r.json()["results"]] if r.status_code in (429, 503): # throttled / service busy back = BASE_BACKOFF_S * (1.7 ** attempt) + random.uniform(0, 0.5) print(f"[elev] {r.status_code} – sleeping {back:.1f}s") time.sleep(back) continue raise RuntimeError( f"DEM call failed {r.status_code}: {r.text[:120]!r}") raise RuntimeError("DEM retries exhausted") def stage_relations(super_id: int): """Return the stage relations that make up an OSM super‑route, in their defined order.""" # 1. Fetch the super-relation itself to get its ordered list of members query_super_rel = f""" [out:json][timeout:120]; relation({super_id}); out body; // 'body' includes the relation's members in their defined order """ result_super_rel = api.query(query_super_rel) if not result_super_rel.relations: raise RuntimeError(f"Super-relation {super_id} not found.") super_relation = result_super_rel.relations[0] stage_rel_ids_ordered = [] for member in super_relation.members: # CORRECTED LINE: Use isinstance to check the type of the member object. # This assumes 'RelationRelation' is exposed by 'import overpy' as 'overpy.RelationRelation' # which is standard in recent versions. if isinstance(member, overpy.RelationRelation): # 'ref' attribute gives the ID of the member stage_rel_ids_ordered.append(member.ref) if not stage_rel_ids_ordered: raise RuntimeError( f"No stage relations found as members of the super-relation {super_id}.") # 2. Fetch the details (IDs and tags) for these stage relations # (The rest of the function remains the same as the previous corrected version) id_query_part = "".join( [f"relation({rel_id});" for rel_id in stage_rel_ids_ordered]) query_stages = f""" [out:json][timeout:120]; ( {id_query_part} ); out ids tags; """ result_stages = api.query(query_stages) rels_by_id = {rel.id: rel for rel in result_stages.relations} ordered_rels = [] for rel_id in stage_rel_ids_ordered: if rel_id in rels_by_id: ordered_rels.append(rels_by_id[rel_id]) else: print( f"[warning] Stage relation {rel_id} (member of {super_id}) was not found or couldn't be fetched.") if not ordered_rels: raise RuntimeError( f"Although {len(stage_rel_ids_ordered)} stage relation(s) were listed in super-relation {super_id}, none could be fetched.") return ordered_rels def relation_line(rel_id: int): """Fetch full geometry of a relation as a merged LineString.""" q = f""" [out:json][timeout:120]; relation({rel_id}); way(r)->.w; (.w;>;); out geom; """ ways = api.query(q).ways return linemerge([LineString([(n.lon, n.lat) for n in w.nodes]) for w in ways]) def densify(line, spacing=DENSIFY_SPACING_M): """Return evenly‑spaced points along *line* (shapely LineString).""" length = geod.geometry_length(line) steps = max(1, math.ceil(length / spacing)) return [line.interpolate(t / steps, normalized=True) for t in range(steps + 1)] def build_profile(super_id: int): """Build the distance/elevation profile for a super‑route relation.""" rows = [] breaks = [0.0] # start at 0 km labels = [] # will capture the first 'from' label here total_m = 0.0 for rel in stage_relations(super_id): sid = rel.id sfrom = rel.tags.get("from", "?") sto = rel.tags.get("to", "?") if not labels: # first loop = trail start labels.append(sfrom) # aligns with 0 km in breaks print(f"[stage] {sid}: {sfrom} → {sto}") pts = densify(relation_line(sid)) elev = [] for batch in chunks(pts, DEM_BATCH_LIMIT): elev.extend(fetch_elevations(batch)) time.sleep(DELAY_BETWEEN_CALLS) seg_m = 0.0 for i, (p, z) in enumerate(zip(pts, elev)): if i: seg_m += geod.inv(pts[i-1].x, pts[i-1].y, p.x, p.y)[2] rows.append({ "dist_km": (total_m + seg_m) / 1_000, "elev_m": z, }) total_m += geod.geometry_length(relation_line(sid)) breaks.append(total_m / 1_000) # arrival at stage finish labels.append(sto) df = (pd.DataFrame(rows) .infer_objects(copy=False) .apply(pd.to_numeric, errors="coerce")) df["elev_m"] = (df["elev_m"] .interpolate(limit_direction="both") .bfill().ffill() .round() .astype("Int64")) return { "df": df, "breaks": breaks, "labels": labels, } def main(): cli = argparse.ArgumentParser( description="Fetch & cache trail elevation profile.") cli.add_argument("-r", "--relation", type=int, default=DEFAULT_RELATION, help="OSM relation ID of the super‑route") cli.add_argument("-o", "--outfile", type=Path, default=DEFAULT_OUTFILE, help="Where to store the pickled profile") args = cli.parse_args() bundle = build_profile(args.relation) with open(args.outfile, "wb") as f: pickle.dump(bundle, f) print(f"[saved] {args.outfile} ({bundle['df'].shape[0]:,} points)") if __name__ == "__main__": main() </syntaxhighlight> For creating wikitext/matplotlib elevation profile: <syntaxhighlight lang="python"> #!/usr/bin/env python3 """ Emit Wikivoyage‑ready stage descriptions **and** save a Matplotlib elevation profile PNG (with vertical annotations). Design goals ============ * **Single frame:** Only one X‑axis and one Y‑axis, intersecting at the origin (0 km, 0 m). Top and right spines remain hidden. * **Numeric kilometre ticks preserved** on the bottom axis. * **Stage labels shown on a secondary (invisible) top axis** so they don’t crowd the profile and numeric ticks coexist. * **No raster/grid** background. Run ``python plot_profile.py -h`` for CLI details. """ from __future__ import annotations import argparse import pickle from pathlib import Path from typing import List import matplotlib.pyplot as plt from matplotlib import ticker import pandas as pd from scipy.signal import savgol_filter # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- # Constants ----------------------------------------------------------------- DEFAULT_INFILE = Path("lapplandsleden_profile.pkl") DEFAULT_IMG = Path("profile.png") HALF_CHAR = "½" # typographic half‑symbol SMOOTH_WIN = 81 # global Savitzky–Golay window (odd) SMOOTH_ORDER = 2 # polynomial order for S‑G filter # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- # Formatting helpers -------------------------------------------------------- def format_km(km: float, decimals: int = 1) -> str: return f"{km:.{decimals}f}".rstrip("0").rstrip(".") def format_hours(hours: float) -> str: hrs = round(hours * 2) / 2 # nearest 0.5 h whole = int(hrs) return f"{whole}\u202Fh" if hrs % 1 == 0 else f"{whole}{HALF_CHAR}\u202Fh" def duration_naismith(dist_km: float, gain_m: float) -> float: """Naismith rule: 4 km h⁻¹ on the flat + 600 m ascent h⁻¹.""" return dist_km / 4.0 + gain_m / 600.0 # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- # Stage description generator ---------------------------------------------- def build_descriptions(df: pd.DataFrame, breaks: List[float], labels: List[str]) -> str: """Return Wikivoyage‑style === PlaceA – PlaceB === blocks.""" start_dists = breaks[:-1] end_dists = breaks[1:] start_names = labels[:-1] end_names = labels[1:] thr = 1 # ignore ±1 m noise in cumulative gain/loss blocks: list[str] = [] for s_name, e_name, d0, d1 in zip(start_names, end_names, start_dists, end_dists): seg = df.loc[(df["dist_km"] >= d0) & ( df["dist_km"] <= d1)].reset_index(drop=True) dist_km = d1 - d0 diffs = seg["elev_smoothed"].diff().fillna(0) gain_m = int(round(diffs[diffs > thr].sum())) loss_m = int(round(-diffs[diffs < -thr].sum())) time_h = duration_naismith(dist_km, gain_m) blocks.append( f"=== {s_name} – {e_name} ===\n" f"; Distance : {format_km(dist_km)}\u202Fkm\n" f"; Duration : {format_hours(time_h)}\n" f"; Elevation gain : ↥\u202F{gain_m}\u202Fm\n" f"; Elevation loss : ↧\u202F{loss_m}\u202Fm\n" ) return "\n".join(blocks) # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- # Matplotlib chart builder --------------------------------------------------- def make_matplotlib_chart( df: pd.DataFrame, breaks: List[float], labels: List[str], *, outfile: Path = DEFAULT_IMG, width_in: float = 8, height_in: float = 3, dpi: int = 150, km_tick: int | None = 25, # distance between numeric ticks ) -> Path: """Draw profile and save to *outfile*. - Bottom axis: numeric kilometre ticks. - Top (secondary) axis: stage labels (vertical text). - Single visible frame (left & bottom spines) at origin; no grid. """ fig, ax = plt.subplots(figsize=(width_in, height_in), dpi=dpi) # Profile line ---------------------------------------------------------- ax.plot(df["dist_km"], df["elev_smoothed"], linewidth=1.2) # Axes spines at origin -------------------------------------------------- ax.spines["left"].set_position("zero") ax.spines["bottom"].set_position("zero") ax.spines["right"].set_visible(False) ax.spines["top"].set_visible(False) ax.xaxis.set_ticks_position("bottom") ax.yaxis.set_ticks_position("left") # Numeric kilometre ticks ---------------------------------------------- if km_tick: ax.xaxis.set_major_locator(ticker.MultipleLocator(km_tick)) # Stage dividers -------------------------------------------------------- for x in breaks: ax.axvline(x=x, color="grey", linestyle="--", linewidth=0.8) # Secondary x‑axis for labels ------------------------------------------ secax = ax.secondary_xaxis("top") secax.set_xticks(breaks) secax.set_xticklabels(labels, rotation=90, fontsize=8, ha="center", va="bottom") # Hide secondary spine to keep single‑frame aesthetic secax.spines["top"].set_visible(False) secax.spines["right"].set_visible(False) secax.spines["left"].set_visible(False) # Axis limits & labels --------------------------------------------------- y_min, y_max = df["elev_smoothed"].min(), df["elev_smoothed"].max() + 10 ax.set_ylim(min(0, y_min), y_max) ax.set_xlim(0, max(df["dist_km"] + 10)) ax.set_xlabel("Distance (km)") ax.set_ylabel("Elevation (m)") # Layout tweaks ---------------------------------------------------------- fig.tight_layout() fig.subplots_adjust(top=0.60) # space for vertical stage labels fig.savefig(outfile) plt.close(fig) return outfile # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- # CLI ----------------------------------------------------------------------- def main() -> None: cli = argparse.ArgumentParser( description="Emit Wikivoyage stage descriptions and a PNG profile.") cli.add_argument("-i", "--infile", type=Path, default=DEFAULT_INFILE, help="Pickle produced by fetch_profile.py") cli.add_argument("-o", "--output", metavar="FILE.wiki", help="Write description blocks here (default: <infile>.wiki)") cli.add_argument("--img", metavar="FILE.png", type=Path, default=DEFAULT_IMG, help="PNG path for the rendered profile") cli.add_argument("--smooth-window", type=int, default=SMOOTH_WIN, help="Savitzky–Golay window length (odd)") cli.add_argument("--smooth-order", type=int, default=SMOOTH_ORDER, help="Savitzky–Golay polynomial order") cli.add_argument("--km-tick", type=int, default=25, help="Distance between numeric kilometre ticks (default 25)") args = cli.parse_args() # Validate pickle -------------------------------------------------------- if not args.infile.exists(): raise SystemExit( f"Cache {args.infile} not found – run fetch_profile.py first.") with open(args.infile, "rb") as f: bundle = pickle.load(f) df: pd.DataFrame = bundle["df"] breaks: List[float] = bundle["breaks"] labels: List[str] = bundle["labels"] # Smooth elevation ------------------------------------------------------ df = df.copy() df["elev_smoothed"] = savgol_filter( df["elev_m"].to_numpy(float), window_length=max(3, args.smooth_window | 1), # force odd polyorder=args.smooth_order, mode="nearest", ) # Outputs --------------------------------------------------------------- img_path = make_matplotlib_chart( df, breaks, labels, outfile=args.img, km_tick=args.km_tick) desc_path = Path( args.output) if args.output else args.infile.with_suffix(".wiki") desc_path.write_text(build_descriptions( df, breaks, labels) + "\n", encoding="utf-8") print(f"[saved] {desc_path}\n[saved] {img_path}") # --------------------------------------------------------------------------- if __name__ == "__main__": main() </syntaxhighlight> [[User:Jpolvto|4720d877-0865-4bdc-99b8-1443ac9f93a6]] ([[User talk:Jpolvto|talk]]) 10:55, 9 May 2025 (UTC) == Listings == I’ve been thinking about listings for a while. While they’re a staple of traditional printed hiking guides, using them on Wikivoyage sometimes feels a bit off. One issue is duplication. When trails share sections, like the Kungsleden and Nordkalottleden, the same listings end up appearing multiple times. Another challenge is how listings are presented. Personally, I find that placing full listings at the end of paragraphs can create information overload. For example, if you look at the history of the ''Offa’s Dyke Path'' article, it looked incredibly cluttered to me at one point. I noticed it’s also possible to reference listings like this: <nowiki>[[Stockholm archipelago#Grand Hotel Saltsjöbaden|Hotel Saltsjöbaden]]</nowiki>, which seems like a cleaner approach. But that raises another question. I’m unsure where certain types of listings actually belong. Refuges and mountain huts often feel more connected to the trail than to any specific town or region. Still, I hesitate to place them directly within the itinerary sections either. [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 09:47, 8 July 2025 (UTC) :I don't think the listings cause "information overload" in [[Nordkalottleden]] or [[Södra Kungsleden]]. On the contrary, I think it is nice to see also that information when reading about a specific leg. Of course, it is possible to cause clutter, and when there is a lot to tell about a place, it is usually best to just have a summary there and link the rest. In those cases, the place is often relevant also outside the specific itinerary and can be described in its own article, such as [[Ritsem]] or [[Kvikkjokk]]. I see that you moved out listings from the [[French Way]]; I haven't looked closer. Whether moving away the listings make sense depends on the specific itinerary and the style of the article. :Avoiding having the same information duplicated across articles is a real concern. I'd recommend creating articles for hub locations, unless there is some existing article where the information fits. There was a discussion on overlapping sections somewhere, and I think I stated that covering such a section on a separate page would make sense in many cases. In the cases I have stumbled upon, there either has been some itinerary on (more or less) the specific section, there has been an article on just one of the overlapping trails, or the overlapping has been minor. There certainly are cases, where you'd need to create a page on the overlapping section with no rationale other than avoiding duplication. This mostly works if the trails that overlap are similar. If one is a hiking trail and the other a snowmobile route (sharing sights and huts), then referring readers to the other one doesn't feel right. :–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:10, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::Hey! Thanks a lot for the reply! ::This is just a personal observation. It’s not that listings are objectively cluttered, but I do get a kind of information overload from listings with a large amount of details like phone numbers, email addresses, or capacity information. I think that's more of a general point on listings presentation though. ::I mostly moved them from the [[GR 10]] article! I think Scandinavian wilderness trails are quite different from trails in Central Europe. For the GR 10, you start and end every day in a village, adding the listings there makes a lot more sense. Not so much for the trails in Scandinavia that you mentioned. ::This is also the reason I hesitate a bit there. It seems the listings belong more to the trail than to a town. ::I don't have a real answer to the question on duplication here, but it's maybe good to mention that this is something to think about in the future. [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 17:21, 10 July 2025 (UTC) == General improvements == Here are a few possible improvements I’ve been thinking about. Some are relatively straightforward, while others may be more technical: * Link dynamic map sections to the corresponding text, so clicking a section on the map scrolls to the relevant paragraph below. * Move listings into separate articles to reduce clutter and keep the trail description more focused. * Create a structured element for section data (such as elevation gain/loss, duration, and distance), since this information is already structured. This could help maintain consistency in the future. [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 09:55, 8 July 2025 (UTC) g275jb20zfakkx1o8chq0ggn44q0xbn 5091068 5090969 2025-07-10T21:33:30Z Bluecoordinationfine 2327039 I've taken the liberty of updating these scripts. They should provide the wikitext in the proper formatting now. 5091068 wikitext text/x-wiki == OpenStreetMap integration == OpenStreetMap offers significantly more data that could enhance our trail guides, though it’s unclear what licensing or usage agreements would apply in these cases. Examples of useful data include: * Distance (km) for each stage * Elevation change and elevation profiles * Estimated hiking time * Complete trail mappings, including sub-relations It’s worth noting that for most long-distance trails covered on Wikivoyage, the corresponding OpenStreetMap relations are already segmented in a way that aligns well with our guide format. The main exceptions are the Appalachian Trail and the GR 10, which are not divided into logical sections (for our purposes). [[User:Jpolvto|Jpolvto]] ([[User talk:Jpolvto|talk]]) 16:58, 4 May 2025 (UTC) :The OSM licences are designed to make reuse possible, but I haven't checked their licensing terms in detail. Much of what we use are data collections rather than literature (maps are counted as such, at least in Finland), and data, I think, isn't protected in the USA. In EU there is the neighbouring database right protecting it, so we should respect the licensing terms (otherwise our EU contributors may have difficulties editing that aspect of our articles). Some uses require attribution; note the "OSM contributors" attribution included by default at the bottom of our dynamic maps. –[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 09:56, 5 May 2025 (UTC) == Scripts == For fetching data: <syntaxhighlight lang="python"> """ Download + cache the elevation profile for an OSM hiking super-route. The pickled result looks like: { "df": pandas.DataFrame, # elevation profile (dist_km / elev_m) "breaks": list[float], # stage-boundary distances, *including 0.0* "labels": list[str], # place-names, same length as breaks } USAGE python fetch_profile.py # default Lapplandsleden python fetch_profile.py -r 123456 -o mytrail.pkl """ import argparse import itertools import math import pickle import random import time from pathlib import Path import overpy import pandas as pd import requests from pyproj import Geod from shapely.geometry import LineString from shapely.ops import linemerge DENSIFY_SPACING_M = 50 DEM_ENDPOINT = "https://api.opentopodata.org/v1/mapzen" # global 90 m DEM_BATCH_LIMIT = 50 DELAY_BETWEEN_CALLS = 1.0 MAX_DEM_RETRIES = 4 BASE_BACKOFF_S = 2.5 DEFAULT_RELATION = 13439996 # Lapplandsleden super-route DEFAULT_OUTFILE = Path("lapplandsleden_profile.pkl") api = overpy.Overpass(max_retry_count=3, retry_timeout=30) geod = Geod(ellps="WGS84") def chunks(it, size): """Yield successive *size*-element chunks from *it*.""" it = iter(it) while (batch := list(itertools.islice(it, size))): yield batch def fetch_elevations(points): """Call the DEM API once for the provided shapely Points.""" locs = "|".join(f"{p.y},{p.x}" for p in points) url = f"{DEM_ENDPOINT}?locations={locs}" for attempt in range(MAX_DEM_RETRIES): r = requests.get(url, timeout=20) if r.ok and r.headers.get("content-type", "").startswith("application/json"): return [res.get("elevation") for res in r.json()["results"]] if r.status_code in (429, 503): # throttled / service busy back = BASE_BACKOFF_S * (1.7 ** attempt) + random.uniform(0, 0.5) print(f"[elev] {r.status_code} - sleeping {back:.1f}s") time.sleep(back) continue raise RuntimeError( f"DEM call failed {r.status_code}: {r.text[:120]!r}") raise RuntimeError("DEM retries exhausted") def stage_relations(super_id: int): """Return the stage relations that make up an OSM super-route, in their defined order.""" # 1. Fetch the super-relation itself to get its ordered list of members query_super_rel = f""" [out:json][timeout:120]; relation({super_id}); out body; // 'body' includes the relation's members in their defined order """ result_super_rel = api.query(query_super_rel) if not result_super_rel.relations: raise RuntimeError(f"Super-relation {super_id} not found.") super_relation = result_super_rel.relations[0] stage_rel_ids_ordered = [] for member in super_relation.members: # Use isinstance to check the type of the member object. # This assumes 'RelationRelation' is exposed by 'import overpy' as 'overpy.RelationRelation' # which is standard in recent versions. if isinstance(member, overpy.RelationRelation): # 'ref' attribute gives the ID of the member stage_rel_ids_ordered.append(member.ref) if not stage_rel_ids_ordered: raise RuntimeError( f"No stage relations found as members of the super-relation {super_id}.") # 2. Fetch the details (IDs and tags) for these stage relations # (The rest of the function remains the same as the previous corrected version) id_query_part = "".join( [f"relation({rel_id});" for rel_id in stage_rel_ids_ordered]) query_stages = f""" [out:json][timeout:120]; ( {id_query_part} ); out ids tags; """ result_stages = api.query(query_stages) rels_by_id = {rel.id: rel for rel in result_stages.relations} ordered_rels = [] for rel_id in stage_rel_ids_ordered: if rel_id in rels_by_id: ordered_rels.append(rels_by_id[rel_id]) else: print( f"[warning] Stage relation {rel_id} (member of {super_id}) was not found or couldn't be fetched.") if not ordered_rels: raise RuntimeError( f"Although {len(stage_rel_ids_ordered)} stage relation(s) were listed in super-relation {super_id}, none could be fetched.") return ordered_rels def relation_line(rel_id: int): """Fetch full geometry of a relation as a merged LineString.""" q = f""" [out:json][timeout:120]; relation({rel_id}); way(r)->.w; (.w;>;); out geom; """ ways = api.query(q).ways return linemerge([LineString([(n.lon, n.lat) for n in w.nodes]) for w in ways]) def densify(line, spacing=DENSIFY_SPACING_M): """Return evenly-spaced points along *line* (shapely LineString).""" length = geod.geometry_length(line) steps = max(1, math.ceil(length / spacing)) return [line.interpolate(t / steps, normalized=True) for t in range(steps + 1)] def build_profile(super_id: int): """Build the distance/elevation profile for a super-route relation.""" rows = [] breaks = [0.0] # start at 0 km labels = [] # will capture the first 'from' label here total_m = 0.0 for rel in stage_relations(super_id): sid = rel.id sfrom = rel.tags.get("from", "?") sto = rel.tags.get("to", "?") if not labels: # first loop = trail start labels.append(sfrom) # aligns with 0 km in breaks print(f"[stage] {sid}: {sfrom} → {sto}") pts = densify(relation_line(sid)) elev = [] for batch in chunks(pts, DEM_BATCH_LIMIT): elev.extend(fetch_elevations(batch)) time.sleep(DELAY_BETWEEN_CALLS) seg_m = 0.0 for i, (p, z) in enumerate(zip(pts, elev)): if i: seg_m += geod.inv(pts[i-1].x, pts[i-1].y, p.x, p.y)[2] rows.append({ "dist_km": (total_m + seg_m) / 1_000, "elev_m": z, }) total_m += geod.geometry_length(relation_line(sid)) breaks.append(total_m / 1_000) # arrival at stage finish labels.append(sto) df = (pd.DataFrame(rows) .infer_objects(copy=False) .apply(pd.to_numeric, errors="coerce")) df["elev_m"] = (df["elev_m"] .interpolate(limit_direction="both") .bfill().ffill() .round() .astype("Int64")) return { "df": df, "breaks": breaks, "labels": labels, } def main(): cli = argparse.ArgumentParser( description="Fetch & cache trail elevation profile.") cli.add_argument("-r", "--relation", type=int, default=DEFAULT_RELATION, help="OSM relation ID of the super-route") cli.add_argument("-o", "--outfile", type=Path, default=DEFAULT_OUTFILE, help="Where to store the pickled profile") args = cli.parse_args() bundle = build_profile(args.relation) with open(args.outfile, "wb") as f: pickle.dump(bundle, f) print(f"[saved] {args.outfile} ({bundle['df'].shape[0]:,} points)") if __name__ == "__main__": main() </syntaxhighlight> For creating wikitext/matplotlib elevation profile: <syntaxhighlight lang="python"> """ Emit Wikivoyage-ready stage descriptions **and** save a Matplotlib elevation profile PNG (with vertical annotations). Design goals ============ * **Single frame:** Only one X-axis and one Y-axis, intersecting at the origin (0 km, 0 m). Top and right spines remain hidden. * **Numeric kilometre ticks preserved** on the bottom axis. * **Stage labels shown on a secondary (invisible) top axis** so they don't crowd the profile and numeric ticks coexist. * **No raster/grid** background. Run ``python plot_profile.py -h`` for CLI details. """ from __future__ import annotations import argparse import pickle from pathlib import Path from typing import List import matplotlib.pyplot as plt from matplotlib import ticker import pandas as pd from scipy.signal import savgol_filter # Constants DEFAULT_INFILE = Path("lapplandsleden_profile.pkl") DEFAULT_IMG = Path("profile.svg") HALF_CHAR = "½" # typographic half-symbol SMOOTH_WIN = 81 # global Savitzky-Golay window (odd) SMOOTH_ORDER = 2 # polynomial order for S-G filter # Formatting helpers def format_km(km: float, decimals: int = 1) -> str: return f"{km:.{decimals}f}".rstrip("0").rstrip(".") def format_hours(hours: float) -> str: hrs = round(hours * 2) / 2 # nearest 0.5 h whole = int(hrs) return f"{whole} h" if hrs % 1 == 0 else f"{whole}{HALF_CHAR} h" def duration_naismith(dist_km: float, gain_m: float) -> float: """Naismith rule: 4 km h⁻¹ on the flat + 600 m ascent h⁻¹.""" return dist_km / 4.0 + gain_m / 600.0 # Stage description generator def build_descriptions(df: pd.DataFrame, breaks: List[float], labels: List[str]) -> str: """Return Wikivoyage-style === PlaceA - PlaceB === blocks.""" start_dists = breaks[:-1] end_dists = breaks[1:] start_names = labels[:-1] end_names = labels[1:] thr = 1 # ignore ±1 m noise in cumulative gain/loss blocks: list[str] = [] for s_name, e_name, d0, d1 in zip(start_names, end_names, start_dists, end_dists): seg = df.loc[(df["dist_km"] >= d0) & ( df["dist_km"] <= d1)].reset_index(drop=True) dist_km = d1 - d0 diffs = seg["elev_smoothed"].diff().fillna(0) gain_m = int(round(diffs[diffs > thr].sum())) loss_m = int(round(-diffs[diffs < -thr].sum())) time_h = duration_naismith(dist_km, gain_m) blocks.append( f"=== {s_name} - {e_name} ===\n" f"; Distance : {format_km(dist_km)} km\n" f"; Duration : {format_hours(time_h)} hr\n" f"; Cumulative elevation gain : ↥ {gain_m} m\n" f"; Elevation loss : ↧ {loss_m} m\n" ) return "\n".join(blocks) # Matplotlib chart builder def make_matplotlib_chart( df: pd.DataFrame, breaks: List[float], labels: List[str], *, outfile: Path = DEFAULT_IMG, width_in: float = 8, height_in: float = 3, dpi: int = 150, km_tick: int | None = 25, # distance between numeric ticks ) -> Path: """Draw profile and save to *outfile*. - Bottom axis: numeric kilometre ticks. - Top (secondary) axis: stage labels (vertical text). - Single visible frame (left & bottom spines) at origin; no grid. """ fig, ax = plt.subplots(figsize=(width_in, height_in), dpi=dpi) # Profile line ax.plot(df["dist_km"], df["elev_smoothed"], linewidth=1.2) # Axes spines at origin ax.spines["left"].set_position("zero") ax.spines["bottom"].set_position("zero") ax.spines["right"].set_visible(False) ax.spines["top"].set_visible(False) ax.xaxis.set_ticks_position("bottom") ax.yaxis.set_ticks_position("left") # Numeric kilometre ticks if km_tick: ax.xaxis.set_major_locator(ticker.MultipleLocator(km_tick)) # Stage dividers for x in breaks: ax.axvline(x=x, color="grey", linestyle="--", linewidth=0.8) # Secondary x-axis for labels secax = ax.secondary_xaxis("top") secax.set_xticks(breaks) secax.set_xticklabels(labels, rotation=90, fontsize=8, ha="center", va="bottom") # Hide secondary spine to keep single-frame aesthetic secax.spines["top"].set_visible(False) secax.spines["right"].set_visible(False) secax.spines["left"].set_visible(False) # Axis limits & labels y_min, y_max = df["elev_smoothed"].min(), df["elev_smoothed"].max() + 10 ax.set_ylim(min(0, y_min), y_max) ax.set_xlim(0, max(df["dist_km"] + 10)) ax.set_xlabel("Distance (km)") ax.set_ylabel("Elevation (m)") # Layout tweaks fig.tight_layout() fig.subplots_adjust(top=0.60) # space for vertical stage labels fig.savefig(outfile, format="svg") plt.close(fig) return outfile def main() -> None: cli = argparse.ArgumentParser( description="Emit Wikivoyage stage descriptions and a PNG profile.") cli.add_argument("-i", "--infile", type=Path, default=DEFAULT_INFILE, help="Pickle produced by fetch_profile.py") cli.add_argument("-o", "--output", metavar="FILE.wiki", help="Write description blocks here (default: <infile>.wiki)") cli.add_argument("--img", metavar="FILE", type=Path, default=DEFAULT_IMG, help="Path for the rendered profile") cli.add_argument("--smooth-window", type=int, default=SMOOTH_WIN, help="Savitzky-Golay window length (odd)") cli.add_argument("--smooth-order", type=int, default=SMOOTH_ORDER, help="Savitzky-Golay polynomial order") cli.add_argument("--km-tick", type=int, default=25, help="Distance between numeric kilometre ticks (default 25)") args = cli.parse_args() # Validate pickle if not args.infile.exists(): raise SystemExit( f"Cache {args.infile} not found - run fetch_profile.py first.") with open(args.infile, "rb") as f: bundle = pickle.load(f) df: pd.DataFrame = bundle["df"] breaks: List[float] = bundle["breaks"] labels: List[str] = bundle["labels"] # Smooth elevation df = df.copy() df["elev_smoothed"] = savgol_filter( df["elev_m"].to_numpy(float), window_length=max(3, args.smooth_window | 1), # force odd polyorder=args.smooth_order, mode="nearest", ) # Outputs img_path = make_matplotlib_chart( df, breaks, labels, outfile=args.img, km_tick=args.km_tick) desc_path = Path( args.output) if args.output else args.infile.with_suffix(".wiki") desc_path.write_text(build_descriptions( df, breaks, labels) + "\n", encoding="utf-8") print(f"[saved] {desc_path}\n[saved] {img_path}") if __name__ == "__main__": main() </syntaxhighlight> [[User:Jpolvto|4720d877-0865-4bdc-99b8-1443ac9f93a6]] ([[User talk:Jpolvto|talk]]) 10:55, 9 May 2025 (UTC) == Listings == I’ve been thinking about listings for a while. While they’re a staple of traditional printed hiking guides, using them on Wikivoyage sometimes feels a bit off. One issue is duplication. When trails share sections, like the Kungsleden and Nordkalottleden, the same listings end up appearing multiple times. Another challenge is how listings are presented. Personally, I find that placing full listings at the end of paragraphs can create information overload. For example, if you look at the history of the ''Offa’s Dyke Path'' article, it looked incredibly cluttered to me at one point. I noticed it’s also possible to reference listings like this: <nowiki>[[Stockholm archipelago#Grand Hotel Saltsjöbaden|Hotel Saltsjöbaden]]</nowiki>, which seems like a cleaner approach. But that raises another question. I’m unsure where certain types of listings actually belong. Refuges and mountain huts often feel more connected to the trail than to any specific town or region. Still, I hesitate to place them directly within the itinerary sections either. [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 09:47, 8 July 2025 (UTC) :I don't think the listings cause "information overload" in [[Nordkalottleden]] or [[Södra Kungsleden]]. On the contrary, I think it is nice to see also that information when reading about a specific leg. Of course, it is possible to cause clutter, and when there is a lot to tell about a place, it is usually best to just have a summary there and link the rest. In those cases, the place is often relevant also outside the specific itinerary and can be described in its own article, such as [[Ritsem]] or [[Kvikkjokk]]. I see that you moved out listings from the [[French Way]]; I haven't looked closer. Whether moving away the listings make sense depends on the specific itinerary and the style of the article. :Avoiding having the same information duplicated across articles is a real concern. I'd recommend creating articles for hub locations, unless there is some existing article where the information fits. There was a discussion on overlapping sections somewhere, and I think I stated that covering such a section on a separate page would make sense in many cases. In the cases I have stumbled upon, there either has been some itinerary on (more or less) the specific section, there has been an article on just one of the overlapping trails, or the overlapping has been minor. There certainly are cases, where you'd need to create a page on the overlapping section with no rationale other than avoiding duplication. This mostly works if the trails that overlap are similar. If one is a hiking trail and the other a snowmobile route (sharing sights and huts), then referring readers to the other one doesn't feel right. :–[[User:LPfi|LPfi]] ([[User talk:LPfi|talk]]) 13:10, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::Hey! Thanks a lot for the reply! ::This is just a personal observation. It’s not that listings are objectively cluttered, but I do get a kind of information overload from listings with a large amount of details like phone numbers, email addresses, or capacity information. I think that's more of a general point on listings presentation though. ::I mostly moved them from the [[GR 10]] article! I think Scandinavian wilderness trails are quite different from trails in Central Europe. For the GR 10, you start and end every day in a village, adding the listings there makes a lot more sense. Not so much for the trails in Scandinavia that you mentioned. ::This is also the reason I hesitate a bit there. It seems the listings belong more to the trail than to a town. ::I don't have a real answer to the question on duplication here, but it's maybe good to mention that this is something to think about in the future. [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 17:21, 10 July 2025 (UTC) == General improvements == Here are a few possible improvements I’ve been thinking about. Some are relatively straightforward, while others may be more technical: * Link dynamic map sections to the corresponding text, so clicking a section on the map scrolls to the relevant paragraph below. * Move listings into separate articles to reduce clutter and keep the trail description more focused. * Create a structured element for section data (such as elevation gain/loss, duration, and distance), since this information is already structured. This could help maintain consistency in the future. [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 09:55, 8 July 2025 (UTC) 4qxh9dulyfc7kd8gaq0wqkt3dtkrji4 0 210655 5090837 5061837 2025-07-10T13:44:08Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090837 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Shirakaba_Run_and_Central_Quad_Lift_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg}} '''Appi Kogen''' (安比高原), or just '''Appi''' (安比), is a ski resort in [[Hachimantai]], [[Iwate]], [[Japan]]. ==Understand== One of Japan's largest ski resorts, Appi brands itself as an upscale "all-season resort" with golf, sports, hot springs and more. Opened in 1981, it's a Bubble-era creation and hasn't been discovered by international tourists in the same way that places like [[Niseko]], at least in part due to its somewhat awkward location 500 km north of Tokyo with no major airports nearby. Skiing is still the main draw, with 16 lifts and 45 km of trails, and there's been a large wave of investment since 2021. ===Climate=== The ski season in Appi usually runs from December to the beginning of May. ===Tourist information=== Appi has two official sites: * [https://www.appi.co.jp/en/ Resort website (English)] * [https://www.appi-japan.com/ Appi Japan (English site)] Both are operated by the Appi Resort and do not cover ''any'' facilities in the village outside the resort grounds. ==Get in== {{mapframe}} The nearest major city is [[Morioka]], 2.5 hours north of Tokyo by Shinkansen. See [[Morioka#Get in]] for details. ===By train=== From Morioka, Appi is served by {{marker|type=go|name=Appi Kogen station|wikidata=Q4781066}} on the JR Hanawa Line, with 7 services per day (60 min from Morioka, 2.5 hrs from [[Odate]]), but you'll need to take a shuttle or taxi to get from the station to the resort area. Also beware that trains from Morioka pass through private Iwate Galaxy Railway tracks, meaning that the Japan Rail and [[Seishun 18]] passes are ''not'' valid. (The JR East Pass, however, is.) ===By bus=== During the winter season only, [http://www.iwate-kenpokubus.co.jp/ Iwate Kenpoku Bus] operates buses from Morioka station directly to Appi Kogen, no booking required. Appi Resort also operates [https://www.appi-japan.com/access/access-winter/ direct shuttle bus services] for ''IHG hotel guests only''. The main one runs from Morioka station to Appi Kogen three times per day (70 min, &yen;2000/1000 adult/child). In season, there are also once-daily airport shuttle buses directly from [[Hanamaki]], [[Odate]] and [[Sendai]] airports. [https://reg-bus.appi.co.jp/reserve/form/ Advance reservations] tied to a confirmed hotel booking are required for all of these. ===By car=== Take the Tohoku Expressway to Matsuo-Hachimantai IC (松尾八幡平), then Route 282 to Appi Kogen (35 min). ==Get around== Appi is spread out and the only form of public transport is the Appi Area Shuttle Bus (安比エリアシャトルバス), which runs between the station and the hotels roughly hourly. Basically all hotels offer a free pickup/dropoff service at the train station. This must be arranged in advance: there are no taxis waiting at the station! ==See== ==Do== * {{do | name=Shirakaba no Yu | alt=白樺の湯 | url=https://www.appi.co.jp/heal/heal-top/ | email= | address=605-365 Appikogen | lat=40.0003 | long=140.97437 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=¥1,200/800 adult/child | lastedit=2025-05-13 | content=Spa complex featuring the largest outdoor spa bath (rotenburo) in Tohoku, indoor pool and sauna. Directly connected to the Holiday Inn, free shuttle service for other IHG guests. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== [[File:Hotel_APPI_Grand_20121028b.JPG|thumb|The unmistakable Crowne Plaza buildings]] Accommodations at Appi are divided into two distinct groups: the three Intercontinental Hotel Group (IHG) operated megahotels, integrated into the ski resort with ski-in/ski-out convenience and price tags to match, and a ragtag bunch of smaller lodgings at least 1 km away from the resort. (They all offer shuttle bus services though.) All prices listed here are for the high (ski) season. Rates drop dramatically out of season, and even in season are often cheaper on weekdays than weekends. ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Life is Beautiful | alt= | address=605-126 Appikogen | directions=Free shuttle from Appi Kogen stn (reservation required) | lat=40.00521 | long=140.97973 | phone= | url=http://appi-life-is-beautiful.com/ | checkin= | checkout= | price=From &yen;6000/person | content=Eclectic inn spread across three themed buildings: the original Honkan, the retro-styled "Earth Color", and the colorful "Arts Color" annex (a few blocks away). Both Western and Japanese rooms offered. Shared cooking facilities. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep|name=ANA InterContinental Appi Kogen Resort|alt=|address=117-46 Appi Kogen|lat=40.00140|long=140.96829|phone=+81 195-68-7550|fax=|email=|url=|checkin=15:00|checkout=11:00|price=&yen;200,000+|content=Opened 2022, this is an understated low-rise 5-star resort. Offers refined service and spacious rooms. Features multiple restaurants and bars, onsen, spa, sauna, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. A premium option for a high-end stay.}} * {{sleep|name=ANA Crowne Plaza Resort Appi Kogen|alt=Appi Grand Hotel|address=117-17 Appi Kogen|lat=40.00219|long=140.96836|phone=+81 195-73-5011|fax=|email=|url=|checkin=15:00|checkout=11:00|price=&yen;90,000|content=Huge Bubble-era resort hotel in two canary yellow buildings including the "iconic" (hideous) 78 m Hotel Tower, with a wide range of dining options, indoor pool, gym, karaoke, amusement facilities, and a large public onsen. Some rooms have private tubs. Well-suited for longer stays.}} * {{sleep | name=ANA Holiday Inn Resort Appi Kogen | alt= | url=https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnresorts/hotels/us/en/hachimantai/axtci/hoteldetail | email= | address=605-227 Appi Kogen | lat=40.001 | long=140.97448 | directions= | phone=+81 195-73-6011 | tollfree= | checkin=15:00 | checkout=11:00 | price= | lastedit=2025-05-13 | content=The most affordable of the IHG trip, this enormous 6-building, 677-room resort complex is split into two parts: the canary yellow "onsen building" (former Appi Kogen Onsen Hotel), directly connected to the Shirakaba-no-Yu spa complex (see [[#Do]]), and the brown "hills" buildings (formerly Appi Hills Shirakaba no Mori) down the road. '''Closed for renovations as of 2025.''' }} There is also one luxury hotel outside the IHG group. * {{sleep | name=Appi Kogen Mori no Hotel | alt=安比高原 森のホテル | address=605-30 Appikogen | directions=Free shuttle from Appi Kogen stn (reservation required) | lat=40.003824 | long=140.978863 | phone=+81 195-73-5301 | url=https://www.ap-morinohotel.com/ | checkin=15:00-22:00 | checkout=10:00 | price= | content=Japanese-style ryokan hotel with 28 guest rooms. Indoor and outdoor baths and a sauna. Some rooms come with private tubs. }} ==Connect== ==Go next== {{IsPartOf|Iwate}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo||}} joz5vjzdefht4rktcfjadbni3p1mskf 0 210954 5091046 5067719 2025-07-10T20:12:27Z Bluecoordinationfine 2327039 Corrected the durations here 5091046 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Gränsleden banner.jpeg |caption=Cable bridge over Ubmasjåhkå at its mouth on Áhkájávrre}} '''Gränsleden''' (“Border Trail”, Sámi: ''Rádjebálges'') is a 62-km marked mountain trail connecting Sørfjorden in [[Tysfjord]], Norway, to [[Ritsem]] in Sweden. Opened in 2007 and extended in 2010, the route follows traditional Sámi paths and was also used by refugees during World War II. ==Understand== [[File:Gränsleden 2011 - Riksrösen 251.jpg|thumb|upright=1.5|Border cairn #251]] {{see also|Hiking in the Nordic countries}} The trail begins by climbing through birch forest, wetlands, and small lakes, often marked by stacked cairns and four-colour trail posts (red, yellow, green, and blue). After approximately 23 km, it crosses the Norway–Sweden border at border stone No. 251 and remains in Sweden for the rest of the route. Above the tree line, the trail traverses open tundra and rolling fell, offering wide panoramic views. The dramatic Áhkká massif is a constant presence on the horizon as you approach Ritsem. Gränsleden passes through remote wilderness with no villages or road access along the way. The altitude generally ranges between 600 and 900 metres, and even in summer the weather is typically cool and changeable. The route follows traditional [[Sami culture|Sámi]] paths across high tundra and lakes in the Áhkká–Akkajaure area, with cairns and coloured trail markers guiding the way. ==Prepare== Gränsleden is a remote trail, so you must carry all food and supplies for the entire hike. There are no resupply points between the trailhead and Ritsem. Water is generally abundant, with many lakes and ponds along the route, but small streams may run low in late summer. A water filter or purification tablets are recommended. Bring sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, and warm clothing. Weather can change quickly, and nights are often cold even in summer. From mid-June to August, mosquitoes and black flies can be a nuisance in birch forest areas. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and consider a head net. A tent or tarp is strongly recommended. Accommodations in Sweden, reached after 24 km, consist of basic, unlocked wind shelters without doors, staff, or services. Reindeer and other wildlife are commonly seen along the trail. In Norway, the huts at Brynvatnet, Kjeringvatnet, and Krokvatnet can be used with a DNT key or cash card (see [[Hiking in the Nordic countries#Sleep]]. For navigation, carry a detailed map and compass or a [[GPS navigation|GPS]] device (with backup measures). Trail markers and cairns are usually clear, but fog or snow may obscure them. No permits are required to hike Gränsleden. Camping is allowed, but follow [[Leave-no-trace camping|“leave no trace”]] principles, especially within the protected [[Laponia|UNESCO Laponia World Heritage]] area. ==Get in== The trail begins at Sørfjorden, which is reached by boat from Kjøpsvik of [[Tysfjord]]. In summer, a ferry such as the MV Røysvass runs daily between Kjøpsvik and Sørfjorden; advance booking is recommended. Kjøpsvik is accessible by car or by bus (Line 100) from [[Narvik]] or [[Bodø]]. Narvik is connected by rail to Sweden via the Malmbanan (with [[sleeper trains]] from Stockholm) and also has an airport. At the end of the hike, near [[Ritsem]], the STF Ritsem fjällstation offers coach service to [[Gällivare]] (about 4 hr). In summer, it is also possible to take a boat across Áhkájávrre to Vássaluokta, where other hiking trails continue. Gällivare, 180 km south-east of Ritsem, is on both the Malmbanan and [[Inlandsbanan]] rail lines, with train connections to Stockholm and other destinations. ==Walk== {{Mapframe}} {{mapshape|type=geoline|wikidata=Q1334456|stroke=#000000|stroke-width=3|title=Gränsleden}} === Sørfjorden - Krokvatnet === 12 km, 6 hr From the Sørfjorden boat dock, the trail heads east through birch forest. It is well marked with distinctive four-colour trail markers. Along the way are wetlands, wooden benches, and views back toward Akkajaure lake. At km 4, Brynvatnet offers the first cabin shelter; Kjeringvatnet follows at km 7. The trail then climbs gently past lakes and bogs. At km 12 you reach Krokvatnet Cabin, a DNT self-service hut with nearby campsites. * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Brynvatnet|lat=68.051325|long=16.675682|content=Cabin at km 4. Basic DNT hut with sleeping platforms, wood stove, and outdoor latrine. DNT key or cash deposit required.}} * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Store Kjerringvatnet|lat=68.02601|long=16.68119|content=Cabin at km 7. Basic DNT hut with sleeping platforms, wood stove, and outdoor latrine. DNT key or cash deposit required.}} * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Krokvatnet|lat=67.99564|long=16.68765|content=Cabin at km 12. DNT self-service hut with 10 beds and good nearby camping spots.}} === Krokvatnet - Gálavárddo === [[File:Sårgå-0302-B2.jpg|thumb|Sårgå wind shelter]] 24 km, 8 hr The trail continues over stony tundra marked by stone cairns. At km 22 you pass Røysvatn Wind Shelter and a short side trail (1.7 km) to the Nordkalottleden hut. Around km 23.3, border cairn #251 marks entry into Sweden. The landscape flattens into rolling mires and birch groves. At km 27 is the Sårgå shelter. Cross a swampy valley and ascend gently to reach the Gálavárddo shelter (km 36) on a scenic slope facing the Åhkká mountains. Water and tent spots are nearby. * {{listing | name=Røysvatn hytta | url=https://ut.no/hytte/10400/rysvatn | lastedit=2025-02-23 | type=sleep | wikidata= Q134006928 | content=Unmanned DNT cabin. DNT key. 10+2 persons in two huts. Sauna. On Grensesømmen, Nordkalottleden and E1. No mobile phone coverage. }} * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Sårgå|lat=67.918411|long=16.895465|content=Three-sided log shelter at km 27 with stove area and nearby tent sites.}} * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Gálavárddo|lat=67.854857|long=16.989694|content=Basic four-walled shelter at km 36. No door or bunks. Offers views of the Åhkká range and good camping.}} === Gálavárddo - Sievgok === [[File:Áhkájávrre-0390-PanoY.jpg|thumb|Western end of Áhkájávrre]] 18 km, 7 hr At km 42 is Áhkkájávrres västände, a basic shelter with lake views, near a suspension bridge over the lake’s outlet. The trail then passes willow groves and grassy upland. Áhkká’s glaciated peaks dominate the horizon. At km 54, Sievgok shelter sits on a knoll above Akkajaure, surrounded by excellent tent sites. * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Áhkkájávrres västände|lat=67.81522|long=17.07514|content=Minimal windshelter at km 42 with lake views near a suspension bridge.}} * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Sievgok|lat=67.786789|long=17.304537|content=Basic shelter at km 54 with panoramic views and nearby tent sites.}} === Sievgok - Ritsem === 8 km, 3 hr The final stretch descends gently through birch moorland with easy river crossings and a brief spruce grove. At km 62 you reach STF Ritsem fjällstation, which marks the end of the Gränsleden trail. Beds, camping, and services are available here. * {{listing|type=sleep|name=STF Ritsem Fjällstation|url=https://www.swedishtouristassociation.com/facilities/stf-ritsem-mountain-station/|wikidata=Q1424949|content=Accommodation at km 62 with hostel bunks, shared kitchen, sauna, shop/café, and camping. Open late June-mid-September. Phone ahead outside season.}} ==Stay safe== Weather conditions can change quickly, even in summer. Be prepared for cold rain, fog, and strong winds, especially above the treeline, where exposure is high. Always carry extra warm clothing and choose sheltered spots to camp at night. Snow and ice may persist on high passes until July, so check trail conditions early in the season. In warm weather, insects can be relentless in the low forest. Use insect repellent, keep hut doors closed, and bring a fine-mesh tent or head-net. Reindeer often cross the trail. If a herd approaches, remain still and avoid disturbing them. Streams can swell rapidly after rain, although all outlets of Akkajaure are bridged. Leave a trip plan with someone before you set out, with a hard deadline on when to call emergency services, and be aware that mobile phone coverage is nearly non-existent along most of the route. ==Go next== From Ritsem you can continue exploring northern Laponia. [[Padjelantaleden]] begins here, crossing wild tundra under the Åhkká massif. Alternatively take the boat (summer only) across Áhkájávrre to Vássaluokta and hike into Padjelanta National Park. The [[Nordkalottleden]] also runs through this area. From Røysvatn you could follow it north into Norway or south toward [[Abisko]]. Coaches from Ritsem connect to Gällivare (4 hr, tickets via SJ/Resplus), from where trains and flights serve the rest of Sweden. {{outlineitinerary}} fx60g75tjpxpeom0p2nbfwjfsjq3l78 3 210956 5090726 5090151 2025-07-10T12:13:38Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Offa's Dyke Path */ 5090726 wikitext text/x-wiki == Greeting == Hello, Bluecoordinationfine! [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, newcomers|Welcome]] to [[Wikivoyage:About|Wikivoyage]]. To help get you started contributing, we've created a [[Wikivoyage:Tips for new contributors|tips for new contributors]] page, full of helpful links about [[Wikivoyage:Directory of policies and guidelines|policies and guidelines]] and [[Wikivoyage:Manual of style|style]], as well as some important information on [[Wikivoyage:Copyleft|copyleft]] and basic stuff like [[Wikivoyage:How to edit a page|how to edit a page]]. If you need help, check out [[Wikivoyage:Help|Help]], or post a message in the [[Wikivoyage:Travellers' pub|travellers' pub]]. New users are also welcome to post any questions or concerns to the [[Wikivoyage:Arrivals lounge|arrivals lounge]]. If you want some practice editing, please do so on our [[Project:graffiti wall|graffiti wall]]. If you are familiar with Wikipedia, take a look over some of the [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, Wikipedians|differences]] here. If you want to contribute with information about the place where you live, see [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, locals]]. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 12:34, 25 May 2025 (UTC) :Thank you for creating such useful hiking articles. These are a great addition to Wikivoyage. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:37, 31 May 2025 (UTC) ::Thanks a lot! I hope Wikvoyage can be an entry point for a lot of hiking trails in the future. [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 13:46, 31 May 2025 (UTC) :Hello Bluecoordinationfine, it's good to see a contributor focusing on hiking destinations. I notice, however, in many cases you've changed lively writing that helps convey a passion for travel into dull, lifeless "just the facts" writing. An AI bot could do that, and it's not what makes for a <nowiki>'''</nowiki>good<nowiki>'''</nowiki> travel guide. I would like to ask that you re-visit many of your recent edits and revert your changes. I don't really want to go through all your changes and do it myself, but they really are a degradation in quality. In the future, please try to use a livelier tone and style that conveys some excitement for whatever you're writing about. Regards, [[User:Mrkstvns|Mrkstvns]] ([[User talk:Mrkstvns|talk]]) 18:18, 31 May 2025 (UTC) ::Hey! Thanks for the feedback. I was under the impression that I was "doing it wrong" so to speak, when I read some of the other articles on Wikivoyage. This prompted me to make the change. ::It's good to know that this is not what's expected, I'll do my best to improve this in the future. Are there any specific changes you're referring to? [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 18:24, 31 May 2025 (UTC) ::: Have a look at [[Wikivoyage:Tone]]. [[User:Pashley|Pashley]] ([[User talk:Pashley|talk]]) 11:57, 1 June 2025 (UTC) ::::Thanks for the link! I'll look through my recent changes. My reason for making some (if not most) of them is that the text was rather vague. In some cases, I also checked the information. For example, some descriptions listed "an open vista" or something similar, while the trail is mapped through exclusively forested regions. ::::At least the factual basis is good now. [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 12:04, 1 June 2025 (UTC) ==[[Offa's Dyke Path]]== Thank you for moving the listings out to the village and town articles. Those are better places for such listings. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:31, 2 July 2025 (UTC) :Thanks, and thanks for the help as well! Some parts could definitely be improved, and I plan to review it again later, especially for a few of the towns in the Pyrenees. I’m also unsure about where certain listings should go. Refuges and mountain huts, for example, often feel more connected to the trail itself than to any particular town or region. Still, I’d prefer not to place them directly in the itinerary sections. :I saw that you could refer to listings like this: [[Stockholm archipelago#Grand Hotel Saltsjöbaden| Hotel Saltsjöbaden]], do you think that's the right approach for hiking trails as well? [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 09:23, 8 July 2025 (UTC) ::Some people like that style of linking, others argue that the reader may be surprised by the link, and prefer to link like this: Hotel Saltsjöbaden in the <nowiki> [[Stockholm archipelago#Grand Hotel Saltsjöbaden| Stockholm archipelago]]</nowiki>. Use you judgment about which style works best in the context. :: You could put a mountain hut or refuge in the article for the nearest town, but the only way to get to it is on the trail, so I don't know that makes the most sense. I think I would leave it in the trail article, but I am not a user of trail articles. You know better than I do. :: By the way, I saw your comment about times and distances. While you may use an app, not everyone does. A Wikivoyage trail article is probably better for planning, while the app is better for use on the go. I think the times and distances would be useful for Wikivoyage readers. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 11:27, 9 July 2025 (UTC) :::Thanks for the reply! I'll keep the linking style in mind. :::The thing that concerns me a bit about the durations, is that you can definitely go overboard with it as well. It's another way to describe a section of trail, so it would make sense for others to also add a km count, and then, why not add an elevation change as well? We'd end up creating the same kind of structured data that's also in the section headings, but in an unstructured way scattered throughout the text. :::I was thinking about whether a wikitext element would help there, so this data would be captured consistently. As an example of an imaginary wikitext element: :::A side trail from point A goes to Pretty Mountain B <nowiki>{{duration=3|distance=12|elevation_gain=100|elevation_loss=100|units=metric}}</nowiki>. :::If there's no structured element, I worry that it might become hard to read, so then it feels safer to avoid creating this situation, and let users handle it using hiking apps (OsmAnd etc.). For now, I'll keep the durations in the text. [[User:Bluecoordinationfine|Bluecoordinationfine]] ([[User talk:Bluecoordinationfine|talk]]) 12:04, 9 July 2025 (UTC) ::Thanks again for your improvements to these articles. :::I think elevation change would be a really valuable addition to trail articles. I like your idea of a template. That could be really useful. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 12:13, 10 July 2025 (UTC) nezvqgnlwuepuulgmzdntw4hvbcm9fa 0 211421 5090795 5081507 2025-07-10T13:21:43Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090795 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} '''Gwagwarwa''' is a densely populated, ethnically diverse suburb of Kano city, located within Nasarawa LGA in Kano State, Nigeria. Originally settled in the mid-20th century, Gwagwarwa blends Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, and numerous other ethnic groups, representing a microcosm of modern Nigeria. It lacks formal tourist infrastructure but offers vibrant community life, local markets, and proximity to Kano’s main attractions. ==Understand== Gwagwarwa, meaning ''brigade'' in Hausa, is part of the ''Brigade'' wards that include Tudun Wada, Gama, and others. It began expanding in the 1960s and became known for its low-cost housing and diverse populated. Today, it’s one of Kano’s most multi-ethnic communities, with over 35 groups represented. Community-led efforts like the GwaCIPP cultural fair have worked to promote harmony and reduce bias. Infrastructure is basic narrow, pothole-filled streets and unreliable water and electricity supply are common challenges. ==Get in== Gwagwarwa lies approximately 5–7 km east of Kano’s old city core, near Sabon Gari and close to Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport. ===By road=== * ''From Kano city center'' – Shared minibuses and taxis run from motor parks like Sabon Gari heading toward Nasarawa or Airport Road; ask for Gwagwarwa. * ''From Mallam Aminu Kano Airport'' – It’s a short drive of about 5 km east; use shared taxis or arrange a ride. There is no direct rail service. The suburb is well-connected by Kano’s urban transport network. ==Get around== Movement within Gwagwarwa and adjacent neighborhoods is mostly by: * '''Walking''' – Streets are walkable, though uneven and unpaved in sections. * '''Tricycles (keke napep)''' – Common for short intra-suburban trips. * '''Taxis and ride-hailing''' – Options exist, but local taxis are typically the easiest to find. ==See== Gwagwarwa itself is mostly residential, but nearby attractions offer more: * '''Brigade Market''' – A bustling local market on Audu Utai Road, selling foodstuff, household items, and fabrics. * '''Gwagwarwa Cultural Fair''' – An annual peace-building event celebrating diverse cultures and community unity. * '''Public facilities''' – Gwagwarwa Primary Health Centre (24 hr PHC) and Police Station serve the community. ==Do== * '''Shop at Brigade Market''' – Browse fresh produce, foodstuffs, clothing, and local crafts. * '''Join a cultural fair''' – If visiting during the annual GwaCIPP fair, enjoy traditional music, dance, food, and unity-focused activities. * '''Connect with inter‑ethnic groups''' – Join local community or students’ associations like GWASA to learn about grassroots social initiatives. ==Buy== * '''Groceries & staples''' – Often sold in Brigade Market: vegetables, grains, spices, snacks. * '''Household goods''' – Basic items like detergents, soaps, cookware, and stationery. * '''Books & religious texts''' – Qiraah Islamic Bookshop on Sani Bello Street stocks Hausa, Arabic, and Islamic literature. * '''Textiles & garments''' – Fabrics and ready-made traditional attire are available in market stalls. ==Eat== * '''Street food stalls''' – Popular for kosai (bean cake), dan wake (dumplings), and suya (spiced skewered meat). * '''Local snack vendors''' – Found near school zones and bus stops, often selling grilled yams or fried dough. * '''Homestyle meals''' – On request, some residents sell plates of tuwo, stew, or rice dishes from their homes. Tip: Bring bottled water; avoid unpurified sources due to contamination and taste issues. ==Drink== Non‑alcoholic local drinks available in stalls and shops: * '''Zobo''' – Hibiscus tea with ginger or pineapple. * '''Kunun zaki''' – Sweet millet-based beverage. * '''Bottled water and packaged sachets''' – Essential due to poor tap water quality. * '''Teas and soft drinks''' – Tea shops and small shops sell Coke, Fanta, and malt drinks. ==Sleep== Accommodation is limited in Gwagwarwa: * '''Local guesthouses''' – Simple lodges may exist but are basic and hard to find without local assistance. * '''Stay in Kano city''' – For more comfort and security, stay near Sabon Gari or Fagge, and visit Gwagwarwa during the day. ==Connect== * '''Mobile networks''' – MTN, Glo, Airtel all have coverage; signal varies by street. * '''Internet''' – Mobile data mostly 3G/4G; slow speeds. No public Wi‑Fi. * '''Electricity''' – Mains supply is erratic; many rely on generators, boreholes, or wells. * '''Health & safety''' – Gwagwarwa Primary Health Centre (24 hr) offers general and antenatal services. * '''Police‬''' – Gwagwarwa Police Station is open 24 hours on Brigade Gama road. ==Go next== * '''Sabon Gari''' – A nearby suburb with busier markets and better accommodations. * '''Tudun Wada & Gama''' – Adjacent wards sharing similar urban characteristics. * '''Kano city centre''' – Just west of Gwagwarwa; visit Kano’s historic old city, Kofar Mata Dye Pits, Emir’s Palace, and Kano Museum. * '''Airport area''' – Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport is nearby for onward travel. Public transport and Souvenirs connections are frequent; always observe road and traffic safety. {{IsPartOf|Kano State}} {{outlinecity}} {{geo|12.02971|8.543139}} 00ci72c9l1rv5joxslolmxu8gbd4nao 0 211453 5090796 5090501 2025-07-10T13:21:56Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Go next */ not a stub anymore 5090796 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Bogatha_Waterfall.jpg}} {{crop}} '''Bogatha Waterfall''', often nicknamed the "Telangana Niagara," is a seasonal but powerful cascade located near Vajedu in Mulugu district. At the intersection of forest and river, it offers a tranquil, offbeat escape. == Understand == == Get in == * By Road: Accessible via a scenic drive from Bhadrachalam (~120 km), then ~2 km trek through forest trails. * Best Time: June–November, soon after monsoon when flow is strongest. } == Get around == * Trekking path from the roadhead to the falls (15–30 min). * No local transport—arrange private taxi or self-drive. == See == * The main waterfall — dramatic drop with mist and pools. * Nearby forest with local wildlife and birdlife. == Do == * Trek through forest trail. * Swim in natural pools; ideal for picnics and meditation. * Photography at sunrise/sunset. == Buy == * Snacks from roadside stalls (carry water and basic supplies from Bhadrachalam). == Eat == * Packed lunch or small local tea stalls along the route. == Drink == * Carry water—no facilities at the waterfall site. == Sleep == * Stay in Bhadrachalam or nearby Mulugu—basic lodges or Bhadradri Haritha Hotel. == Stay safe == * Slippery rocks—wear hiking shoes. * Watch for wildlife; no lifeguards. == Connect == * Spotty mobile coverage. * No Wi‑Fi at falls. == Go next == * Combine with a trip to Bhadrachalam (temples, river). * Nearby Kuntala Fall or Bogatha’s forest trails. {{IsPartOf|East Telangana}} {{geo|18.4761| 80.5}} {{outlinepark}} 6oylo6zsz2i8q6mtxszdcv1j0d7jq3c 0 211480 5091190 5090059 2025-07-11T05:14:59Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Buy */ 5091190 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=Central Bangalore}} '''Central Bangalore''' is the heart of the city. It contains the original mud fort, the old neighbourhoods and the British-era cantonment. For a long time, it ''was'' the city, or rather the agglomeration of two cities: Bangalore Pete and Bangalore Cantonment. The older Pete has narrow alleys and dense living, while the newer Cantonment has wide streets and more greenery. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.975|77.598|width=700|height=550|zoom=14|name=Map of Central Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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===By metro=== The '''Purple Line''' {{rint|bangalore|purple}} serves the entire Central Bangalore east-west, from Mahatma Gandhi Road to KSR station. The '''Green Line''' {{rint|bangalore|green}} runs across the district north-south, serving Majestic, Chickpet and KR Market. Majestic is the interchange of Purple and Green lines. ==See== [[File:Tipu Palace bangalore.JPG|thumb|Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.962875 | long=77.575956 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q4855049 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Built in 1537. A small part with massive granite walls, big gates, a dungeon and a small Ganesha temple is still intact. Check out the stone carving high up on the wall to your left after entering the massive wooden door. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Centre | alt=Visvesvaraya Towers | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.982425 | long=77.595785 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130215606 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government office complex, built on the site of the house of Sir M. Visvesvaraya after his death. Initially constructed for the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), it was later bought by the state government to house government offices. The brutalist architecture of this high-rise building at Cubbon Park area stands in sharp contrast to the neoclassical architecture of Vidhana Soudha, Attara Kacheri and the General Post Office. The general public is not allowed into the premises, unless they have an appointment at one of the offices. }} ===Cubbon Park area=== [[File:High_Court_of_Karnataka,_Bangalore_MMK.jpg|thumb|Attara Kacheri]] [[File:Government Museum Bangalore (48186334876).jpg|thumb|Government Museum]] [[File:Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.jpg|thumbnail|Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum]] * {{see | name=Attara Kacheri | alt= | url=http://hck.gov.in/ | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.978056 | long=77.5925 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q104755615 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A two-storey neoclassical red-painted stone and brick building, hosting the High Court of Karnataka. It was previously a secretariat of eighteen departments, built under the reign of king Devaraja Wadiyar II in 1701. The main structure of the building is surrounded on all sides by porticoes and verandahs. The entire building is surfaced with plaster and painted with red ochre. }} * {{see | name=Kingfisher Towers | alt= | url= | email= | address=UB City | lat=12.97283 | long=77.59701 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kingfisher Towers Bangalore.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content=Probably the most famous high-rise residential building in Bangalore, despite not being the tallest in the city. The top of the building is occupied by a mansion, which is one of the few instances of a "building atop a building" in India. }} * {{see | name=Government Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9747 | long=77.5958 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q372869 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Established in 1865, the museum is flanked by the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum and the Venkatappa Art Gallery. It is an archaeological museum with a rare collection of archaeological and geological artefacts, including old jewellery, sculpture, coins and inscriptions. The museum is also home to the Halmidi inscription, the earliest writing in Kannada (450 CE). }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address=22, Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-7:30PM | price=2 free exhibitions, 2 paid exhibitions (₹150 combined) | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This museum presents 4 exhibitions (2 free and 2 paid, ₹150) and contains a café, restaurant and library over 5 stories. It's well worth a visit and takes about 2 hours. }} * {{see | name=Seshadari Iyer Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9746 | long=77.5907 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-14 | content=A distinctive red sandstone building, hosting the State Central Library. }} * {{see | name=Venkatappa Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974236 | long=77.595302 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24950240 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Vidhana Soudha | alt=Karnataka Legislative Assembly | url= | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.979693 | long=77.590658 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q283257 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=This granite building houses the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. It was built during the tenure of K. Hanumanthaiya, Chief Minister of Mysore State (1951–1956). A marvel of neo-Dravidian architecture, and one of the most imposing buildings in India. One of the interesting features of this building are the grand stairs in its front. The steps of the grand stairs are {{m|62}} wide and {{m|21}} deep, giving direct access to the foyer of the first floor leading to an assembly chamber. The architecture comprises of Dravidian richly carved bases and capitals for pillars, deep friezes, kapotha cornices, chaithya arches, heavy pediments domical finials. At the same time, the construction uses modern designs, making use of present-day materials like steel, reinforced concrete, glass, and plastic. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the ground or the building. It can only be viewed from the road and footpath outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Vikasa Soudha | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.978318 | long=77.589297 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65109682 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=Located next to Vidhana Soudha, built in the same classic style. It was inaugurated in 2005. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the premises. It can only be viewed from outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum | alt=VITM | url=https://www.vismuseum.gov.in/ | email=vitmuseum@gmail.com | address= | lat=12.9751 | long=77.5964 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+91 80-22866200 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-5:30PM (closed in Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali) | price= | wikidata=Q3537014 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Contains many fun learning activities and exhibitions that can be enjoyed by adults and children. Most exhibits are based on simple science, but some have industrial applications. For general visitors entry fee is ₹40. Some groups receive discounts (organised school groups, BPL Category when showing valid BPL card, etc). Entry is free for military and police personnel in uniform, the physically challenged, and children below 5 years of age. There is also a 3D show costing an extra ₹25 (for general public). }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Gandhi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kumara Park E | lat=12.988117 | long=77.579826 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60771806 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The museum consists of a gallery with rare photographs of Mahatma Gandhi and letters written by him, a library and an auditorium. It serves as a venue for meetings organised on Gandhian values in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=J's La Quill Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakachitrakalaparishath.com/index.php#gallery | email= | address= | lat=12.989167 | long=77.578367 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6372843 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A visual art complex with 18 galleries, 13 of which carry a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures and folk art. The folk art collection showcases Mysore paintings and leather puppets. }} * {{see | name=Kempegowda Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.974092 | long=77.610754 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM–5PM (closed Su) | price=Free | wikidata=Q6387055 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government museum dedicated to Bangalore's founder Kempe Gowda. It is housed in the Mayo Hall, which was built in memory of Lord Mayo, the 4th Viceroy of India. This two-storey building is known for its ornate furniture and architecture. It is adorned by chandeliers, Greek cornices, Tuscan columns, stone arches, wooden floors and beautiful furnishings. The building itself offers a panoramic view of the city's Parade Grounds and Ulsoor Lake on one side, and the Bangalore Race Course and Brigade Grounds on the south. }} * {{see | name=National Military Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.985521 | long=77.590458 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q18379547 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=A memorial-cum-museum dedicated to the personnel and families of martyrs who have died in the service of the nation. The collection in the museum include mockups of missiles like AKASH, Prithvi and BrahMos and rockets like Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). }} * {{see | name=National Gallery of Modern Art | alt=NGMA | url=http://ngmaindia.gov.in/ngma_bangaluru.asp | email= | address=49, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd | lat=12.989705 | long=77.58815 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa Su 11AM-7:30PM, Tu-F 11AM-6PM | price=₹20 for Indian citizens, ₹500 for foreigners | wikidata=Q17077814 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The National Gallery of Modern Art houses an auditorium, café, shop and exhibitions of modern and contemporary art in a beautiful building. The gallery organises and hosts talks on art and culture by speakers, seminars, film screenings as well as workshops and guided walks throughout the year. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Albert Victor Rd | lat=12.959494 | long=77.573572 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone=+91 80 2670 6836 | tollfree= | hours=daily 9:30AM-5:30PM | price=₹20 for Indians/SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens and ₹250 for foreigners (tickets only available online, you will need a phone with a QR code scanner and mobile data) | wikidata=Q7809034 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Dating to about 1790, it was the summer retreat for Tipu Sultan. The two-storey structure is made mostly out of wood with finely embellished balconies, pillars and arches. It contains a small museum with information on Tipu Sultan. }} ===Natural attractions=== * {{see | name=Lalbagh Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.95 | long=77.59 | directions=metro: {{station|Lalbagh|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q200711 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Built during the reigns of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, the botanical garden is home to numerous wild species of birds and other wildlife. The garden also has a lake adjoining a large rock is home to some water birds. Flower shows are conducted annually during the weeks of Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August) to educate the public about the variety of flora and foster public interest in plant conservation and cultivation. }} ===Places of worship=== [[File:Holy Trinity Church Bangalore Entrance.jpg|thumb|The entrance to the Holy Trinity Church]] ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Holy Trinity Church | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.972118 | long=77.620622 | directions=at Trinity circle at the east end of the MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5886431 | content=A major landmark of Central Bangalore. It was built in 1851, for the British Regiment stationed in Bangalore. Built-in the English Renaissance style, the church can accommodate 700 people and is regarded as the largest military church in southern India. It has a congregation of over 450 families. }} * {{see | name=Hudson Memorial Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hudson Circle | lat=12.967401 | long=77.587911 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24937604 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=Established in 1904 and named after missionary and scholar Rev. Josiah Hudson, who was responsible for opening Kannada schools in Bangalore Pete. The church attracts people of all faiths, especially in Thursdays and Sundays. }} * {{see | name=St. Andrew's Church | alt= | url=http://standrewschurch.org.in | email= | address=Cubbon Rd | lat=12.9792 | long=77.6042 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898472 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A Presbyterian church, consecrated in memory of Mary Elizabeth McGoun, wife of Col. Thomas McGoun of the 6th Madras Native Infantry. It is an example of Gothic architecture in the city, with a steeping roof of Mangalore tiles, a row of decorative ridge-tiles on the top, turreted parapets and gables, iron crested towers, intricately done plaster motifs, railings of cast iron, and pilasters and pavilions rising from the wing. }} * {{see | name=St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.parramattacathedral.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.992679 | long=77.611314 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7588004 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=St. John's Church | alt= | url=http://stjohnschurchbangalore.com/ | email= | address= | lat=12.9918 | long=77.613 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898476 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The fourth oldest Protestant church in the city, with a distinct red edifice and towering steeple, rising out of the leafy surroundings. There's a memorial in front of the church for its members who lost their lives in service of 'King and Empire', in World War I. }} * {{see | name=St. Mark's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.saintmarks.in | email= | address= | lat=12.97606 | long=77.60034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898479 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=The sole cathedral of Bangalore is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist. It is famous for its English Baroque architecture inspired by [[London]]'s St Paul's Cathedral. The entrance has elaborate woodwork with ornate carvings. The bell is the amongst the most well-maintained church bells in India. The stained glasswork adds to the beauty of the cathedral. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Basilica | alt= | url=http://www.stmarysbasilica.in/ | email= | address= | lat=12.984417 | long=77.60425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7590089 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content=The oldest church in Bangalore, and the only church in the state which has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities held during the St. Mary's Feast in the month of September each year, an event that attracts devotees from in and around Bangalore. The basilica is built in Gothic style with arches, ornamental motifs and stained glass windows. Multiple columns and tall spires of the basilica can be seen from quite a distance. The stained glass windows were removed during World War II and were subsequently restored in 1947. }} ====Temples==== * {{see | name=Dharmaraya Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.965444 | long=77.583389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2065042 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=One of the oldest temples of Bangalore and also the smallest, the Temple has existed since the times of Kempe Gowda. It is on S.P. Road close to Corporation Circle, behind the LIC building. This temple is famous for the Annual Karaga Festival held every summer. The Presiding Deity is Dharmaraya (Yudishthira) & Consort Draupadi, making it a unique one of its kind. }} * {{see | name=Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.959524 | long=77.574305 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}}, next to Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6433914 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A fine example of Dravidian architecture, built by Maharaja Chikkadevaraya Wodeyar. }} * {{see | name=Maha Bodhi Society Temple | url= | email= | address=No. 14, Kalidas Road, Gandhi Nagar | lat=12.97817 | long=77.58069 | directions=northwest rim of Freedom Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at [[Bodh Gaya]]. The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English. }} * {{see | name=Someshwara Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Halasuru | lat=12.975556 | long=77.623889 | directions=close to Halasuru Police station; metro: {{station|Halasuru|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q16891973 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples of the city. The inner sanctum sanctorum is said to have been built in the 8th century by the Cholas, who ruled this place, the outer Praharam during the Hoysalas of the 11th century, while the front hall construction and the Gopuram during the Vijayanagar Empire of the 15th century. The structure resembles the various changes the temple has gone through during the period, with major additions and renovations done to preserve the temple. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Bangalore Race Course | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98235 | long=77.58094 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{do | name=Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium | alt= | url=http://www.taralaya.org/ | email=info@taralaya.org | address=Bangalore Association for Science Education, Sri T. Choudaiah Road, High Grounds | lat=12.98486 | long=77.58954 | directions=opposite Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, Near Raj Bhavan | phone=+91 80-22379725 | tollfree= | hours=12:30-4:30PM (closed M and second Th) | price=₹35 for adults and ₹20 for school students and children (up to 16 years), children below 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky-Theatre | wikidata=Q6987903 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A very good planetarium for adults and children alike. Shows are offered in Kannada and English. Each show is about 30 minutes long. There are about 200 seats available for each show. A ticket can be used only for the show mentioned on the ticket, and is non-refundable if you miss that show. }} * {{do | name=Sir Puttanna Chetty Town Hall | alt=Bangalore Town Hall | url= | email= | address=112 JC Road | lat=12.96376 | long=77.58579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4855080 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A neoclassical building. The structure features a flight of steps leading to the entrance porch resting on Tuscan columns with identical columns extending on either sides. The auditorium has two floors with a total capacity of 810 seats. }} * {{do | name=Urvashi Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lalbagh Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Lalbagh Main gate & MTR | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-08 | content=A cool remodified theatre that allows a 1st hand experience in watching movies. One of the oldest theatres and important landmark of the City }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Chitra Santhe (Paintings market) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.99053 | long=77.58234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An annual exhibition, held on the first Sunday of every year in January, the Chitra Santhe on Kumara Krupa Road (near Golf Course) brings together artists from all across Karnataka. Paintings, pottery, and sculpture are all on an exhibition-cum-sale. The road is closed to traffic on that day, making it possible to have a leisurely stroll, admiring and buying the items. Prices range from ₹100-20,000. Bargaining is recommended, but not too hard. Pay a fair price. (Credit cards and foreign currency are rarely accepted, so carry sufficient cash in Indian currency). }} * {{do | name=Flower Show (Biannual) | alt= | url= | email= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 9AM to 5PM | price= ₹50 entry fees | content=A bi-annual affair at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, during the Independence Day (August 15th) & Republic Day (January 26th). Various companies display their floral exhibits in this period, normally held from a week before the above-mentioned days. The main epicentre would be a Rose arrangement representing a theme, or a heritage structure, which attracts major crowd from around Bangalore. }} * {{do | name=Mango Mela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM to 5PM | price=₹30 entry fees | content=An annual affair, at the beginning of summer, the season for the king of fruits. Normally, mangoes (raw & ripe), cultivated in Bangalore Rural and Ramanagara, as well as in neighbouring Kolar and Chikballapur, are brought and kept for show as well as sale during this period, at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. A must-visit for mango fans. }} ===Parks and stadiums=== * {{do | name=Cubbon Park | alt=Sri Chamarajendra Udyanavana | url=http://www.horticulture.kar.nic.in/cubbon.htm | email= | address= | lat=12.975 | long=77.593333 | directions=opposite to Chinnaswamy Stadium, {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3633776 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A nice forested area in the city centre. The entrance from Queen's Statue forms the tourist attraction owing to the presence of the Government Aquarium and Bal Bhavan, a play area for kids. '''Puttaani Express''' a small toy train for kids, runs inside the Bal Bhavan, attracting kids from far and near. For attractions around the park, see the [[#Cubbon Park area|Cubbon Park area]] subsection of See. }} * {{do | name=Freedom Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.977272 | long=77.581844 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5500576 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A park built on the grounds of a prison. It is also used for public protests. }} * {{do | name=M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat=12.978806 | long=77.599556 | directions={{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+90 80 4015 4015 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1861907 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=With a capacity of 40,000, this is the home of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has a large and loud following. The IPL season typically is from March to May every year, matches are played in the evenings and last around 3 hours. Scour the daily newspapers for ticket information - tickets sell out a week before. }} * {{do | name=Sree Kanteerava Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.969556 | long=77.593469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7585638 | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=A multi-purpose stadium with a running track, a volleyball court, and two outdoor rock-climbing walls. }} * {{do | name=Ulsoor Lake | alt=Halasuru lake | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.981472 | long=77.619214 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30587793 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore, with several islands. There's a watch tower with a Chinese bell on the lake. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=SPA.ce | alt= | url=http://www.spacethespa.com | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by an expat Brit. Offers a variety of massages, scrubs, and facials. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française de Bangalore | alt= | url=http://bangalore.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Thimmaiah Rd, Kaverappa Layout | lat=12.991477 | long=77.596851 | directions= | phone=+91 7899562404 | tollfree= | hours=9:30AM&ndash;5:30PM (closed S) | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Offers French language courses. }} ==Buy== * The '''UB City''' and '''Vittal Mallya Road''' are Page-3 shopping areas. You'll find brands like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Kimaya in the UB City. Vittal Mallya Road has stores like '''The Collective''' which is a shop only for men. Armani, Versace, Boss, you name it, they have it. There's even Canary Blue and Esprit on the same road. * {{buy | name=Brigade Road/M.G. Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97520 | long=77.60817 | directions=metro: {{station|MG Road|purple}} right next to the intersection of both roads | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The most popular place for tourists. These two roads are filled with shops of every kind, whether it be traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear (this is especially true for Brigade Road). Brigade Road, where British soldiers used to buy their necessities, is now the centre of yuppie Bangalore; you'll see hordes of college students on the road any time of day or night. Stores on Brigade Road include: Planet M (a huge music store with everything), Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Phillipe, Pepe Jeans, Levis, Lee, SanFrisco Jeans, Nike, and Titan (great Indian made watches). There are also many eateries on Brigade road and on the side roads that lead off it. Fast food outlets include KFC (right at the entrance), Pizza Hut (at the other end of the road), and many cafes including the Indian coffee chain Cafe Coffee Day. Also includes a tattoo studio. M.G. Road is short for Mahatma Gandhi road. }} * {{buy | name=Commercial Street | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98219 | long=77.60824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A legacy of the British is another shopping mecca that sells international brands (similar to Brigade road) alongside locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. In addition, it is famous for its body piercing centres. The price of goods here is very competitive and it is a great place to pick a bargain. }} * {{buy | name=Krishna Rajendra Market | alt=KR Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.96563 | long=77.57636 | directions=metro: {{station|KR Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The city's largest vegetable and fruit market. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Gangarams Book Bureau | alt= | url=http://gangaramsbookbureau.com/ | email=gangaramsinternational@gmail.com | address=#3, Church Street, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-11 | content=Since 1977, a destination for booklovers with books in a diverse range from academic, professional and technical to fiction and non-fiction. }} * {{buy | name=Blossoms | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=parallel to MG Rd and nearby Coconut Grove Restaurant | phone=+91 80 255 9733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are 3 full floors of those rare, hard to find old books. All 2nd hand, good condition and at low rates. }} * {{buy | name=The Bookworm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Church Street, opposite Starbucks | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a small used book store. Good bargains on used and new books are available here. }} * {{buy | name=Crossword | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=ACR Towers, opposite Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558 2411-16 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks, music and movie section, children's section and a coffee shop. A wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop. }} * {{buy | name=Elloor Library | url= | email= | address=Blue Cross Chambers, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=close to Commercial St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Requires membership which includes a deposit. }} * {{buy | name=Gangarams Mg road | url= | email=gangarams@vsnl.com | address=Triumph Tower, 2nd Floor, 48 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite High Gates Hotel and Mainland China; Church Street is parallel to Mahatma Gandhi ("MG") Road | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa | price= | content=A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works. }} * {{buy | name=Goobes Book Republic | url=http://www.goobes.wordpress.com | email=goobesbookrepublic@gmail.com | address=46-1-1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=in the basement of Church Street Inn, Budget Hotel, near MG Rd | phone=+91 80 4112 4956 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Secondhand and new books on a wide variety of subjects and a very cost effective library option and buy back used books. }} * {{buy | name=Higginbothams | alt= | url= | email= | address=68 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7359, +91 80 2558 6574 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This bookstore has a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels. }} * {{buy | name=Premier Book Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address=46/1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone=+91 80 2558 8570 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down. This store however, will shut down shortly. }} * {{buy | name=Sapna Book House | url=http://www.sapnaonline.com/ | email= | address=3rd Main Rd, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Walking distance from Majestic Bus stand | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a large bookstore, they also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery. }} * {{buy | name=Select Bookshop | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd Behind Curzon Court Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books. }} * {{buy | name=The Strand book stall | alt= | url=http://www.strandbookstall.com/ | email= | address=Dickenson Rd | lat= | long= | directions=1st Floor, Manipal Centre | phone=+91 80 2558 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Mahendra Textiles | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4124 9900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sarees and dress materials from Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kerala and Sri Lanka. }} * {{buy | name=Marmalade | alt= | url= | email= | address=Magrath Rd | lat= | long= | directions=adj to Spratt Salon; left before Coffee Day, on Brigade Rd Extn | phone=+91 80 4122 1814 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of affordable young designer wear. }} * {{buy | name=Native Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=behind Museum Rd Post Office, Museum Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of interesting merchandise, crafts made by NGOs, c/o The Only Place Restaurant. }} * {{buy | name=One G | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4123 1231 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(Jewellery) Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Rd. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of [[Mysore]] sandalwood are an especially good buy. }} * {{buy | name=Central Cottage Industries Emporium | alt=CCIE | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], Bangalore and [[Chennai]]. }} * {{buy | name=Chandi - The Divine Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Shop No. 12, First Floor, Public Utility Building | phone=+91 80 4112 3590, +91 80 4112 3610 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialising in Indian divine figures in all mediums. Claims to have the biggest collection of Ganeshas in town. High-quality and locally-priced wares, supposedly no pushy salesmanship. }} * {{buy | name=Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialises in Karnataka handicraft. }} ===Jewellery=== * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons | alt=Diamond Flagship Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=2-1 Main Cross Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Safina Plaza | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content={{convert|14000|ft2}} dedicated to the finest gold and diamond jewellery, spread over two floors. }} * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons-The Heritage Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=35 & 36 Commercial St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Dedicated to gold and silver. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Garuda Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97004 | long=77.60968 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads. }} * {{buy | name=Safina Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97977 | long=77.60696 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The sale capital of Bangalore, on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi). }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Annapoorna | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ulsoor | lat= | long= | directions=near Sai Baba Temple in Ulsoor. Need to get down at Ulsoor police station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pure vegetarian food in Tamil style. }} * {{eat | name=Bheemas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you have the penchant for spice this place is meant for you. }} * {{eat | name=I-Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Park, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Expensive, but arguably the best Italian food in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kudla | alt= | url=http://www.ramanashree.com/ | email= | address=Ramanashree Comforts, Richmond Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For seafood, serves excellent dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Oh! Calcutta | alt= | url= | email= | address=St Mark's Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Part of a chain of restaurants across the country, and the best Bengali food available in the city albeit pricier than the other options. }} * {{eat | name=Pabrai's Fresh and Naturalle Ice Cream | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood Street, Ashok Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6453 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Palms | alt= | url= | email= | address=33 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=at the Highgates Hotel | phone=+91 80 2559 7172 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Coorgi, and Malabari style. (shut for renovations) }} * {{eat | name=Queens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church Street, opposite Amoeba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small restaurant but great food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=RRs | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A renovation of the vintage RRs, the fun doubles here with the double storeyed restaurant, one serving Andhra and the other Hyderabadi cuisines. There's also alcohol, all the more reason to indulge on a Saturday afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Tijouri | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Atria, Palace Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2220 5205 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Delicacy| url= | email= | address=105 Dickenson's road, Manipal Centre| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Majestic | url= | email= | address=(''next to Fkcci Bldg''), KG Rd| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Anupams Coastal Express | url= | email= | address=Shivananda Circle | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They make fantastic fish dishes. Neer Dosa with Chicken Pulimunchi, kori roti and chicken ghee roast are some things you really cannot miss. }} * {{eat | name=Bobby-da-Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Lavanya Theatre, St John's Road, Near Ulsoor | lat=12.98369 | long=77.61391 | directions= | phone=+91 96 6367 8382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-3:45PM, 7:30PM-11PM | price= | content=The food is good (albeit slightly oily). It basically serves paranthas (with lots of butter), chaach, kheer and a number of side dishes (most notable being their shahi paneer and rajma). You may have to wait for a while in case it is full. So it's better to go slightly early, noon for lunch and 7:30PM for dinner to avoid rush). }} * {{eat | name=Coconut Grove | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97526 | long=77.60433 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Appams and Kerala parottas with a chicken sauce dish. Their lunch offer for ₹80 is also really good. A pretty good choice for reasonably priced quality seafood. Coco-Grove the outdoor 'beer cafe' extension is also worth a look. }} * {{eat | name=Fanoos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=adjoining Johnson Market, off Brigade Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the joints for getting sheekh (beef) rolls in Bangalore. They come in various sizes- sheekh roll, sheekh jumbo, sheekh mambo, sheekh rambo and sheekh sambo- the latter of which is almost 2 in thick. There are other options like chicken, mutton and paneer rolls as well as kababs and shawarma. ₹30-100 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Indian Coffee House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97474 | long=77.60533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=KC Das | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97588 | long=77.60179 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Bengali sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Kohinoor | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves very reasonably priced Kerala Muslim style food. }} * {{eat | name=Lake View Milk Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent ice creams, club sandwiches and burgers. }} * {{eat | name=Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) | alt= | url= | email= | address=11 Lal Bagh Rd | lat=12.9551857 | long=77.58556020000003 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2222 0022, +91 80 22221706 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-10-27| content=One of the very old traditional breakfast places in Bangalore. There are a few people who have been having their breakfast at MTR every day for the past 15 years. Closed between 2:45-3:30PM. Expect a long wait on weekends. Traditional 12-course Karnataka lunches are also available here for around ₹90 per head. Advance reservations recommended at weekends. Rava idlis, dosas and bisi bele bath are excellent. It has maintained its quality over the years and is very famous. It is on the road perpendicular to Lal bagh main gate. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Alibaba Cafe & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 7163 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Frazer Town. Arabian, Persian and Bhatkali cuisine described as "An Arabian Lake in the Indian Ocean". A themed restaurant with the feel of Arabia, Persia and India. The "Shaiya Biryani" of the Bhatkali cuisine, the Al faham chicken barbecue out of the Arabian cuisine and the chicken Jujeh kabab from the Persian cuisine are all recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Caesar's Multi Cuisine Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahalakshmi Chambers, 9/2, MG Rd. | lat= | long= | directions=beside HSBC bank opposite ING Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6:30PM–11:30PM | price= | content=Indian and continental food. Classic environment. The ambience is good, though the food is a tad expensive. Parking is a problem. }} * {{eat | name=Canopy | url= | email= | address=PU Building, M.G. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open air, multi-cuisine North-Indian food. Cooking techniques date back to the independence era offering the unique taste. Great outdoor ambiance in the middle of the central business district. ₹125-750 }} * {{eat | name=Ebony | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=on the 13th floor of the tallest building on MG Rd, Utility building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Stylish eatery with excellent evening views of the city. Service is a bit slow, but the ambiance makes it worth the wait. Book ahead for a terrace seat. ₹200-400 }} * {{eat | name=Koshy's | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat=12.97579 | long=77.60147 | directions=Below Church St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Bangalore institution, serving a smattering of Western favorites (like fish and chips) along with the usual South Indian fare in a bohemian-for-India atmosphere. On weekends, they serve up greasy Western-style breakfast, including omelettes and Bombay (i.e, French) Toast. Appam and stew is their Sunday breakfast special and a must eat. Turn right at the entrance for the more expensive (and decidedly less charming) A/C room. ₹50-200. Smoky, with sluggish service, and not particularly clean Koshy's still has plenty of character and history but its getting harder to justify their skyrocketing prices. }} * {{eat | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hot coffee to chilled Kingfisher beer on the tap awesome cocktails and even hand rolled Havana cigars. Salads, sandwiches, jacket baked potatoes to entrees. LRC also offers an Oxy Bar, Bangalore's first. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=Near Museum Rd | phone=+91 80 2227 7722, +91 90 2224 5864 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Upscale Chinese food. Good, fairly authentic food and excellent service. Serves a decent lunch buffet. Also new outlet on 100ft Road, Indiranagar. ₹500-800. }} * {{eat | name=Pinxx | url= | email= | address=Manipal centre | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place for Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. ₹200-400 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Samarkand | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gem Plaza, 66, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=East of Central St | phone=+91 80 4111 3366 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=North West frontier food (i.e., kebabs, Afghani) in a kitschy atmosphere but the food is great. You will need to book on weekends. ₹300-600. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Blue Ginger | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/restaurants/blue-ginger/ | email= | address=Taj West End | lat= | long= | directions=just next door to Blue Bar | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=High-end Vietnamese restaurant with a beautiful setting and excellent food. }} * {{eat | name=Graze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Taj Residency, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has some of the best creative continental you will get in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=I.Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Opposite 1 MG, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has the best Italian food in town }} * {{eat | name=Karavalli | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at the Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558-4545 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine. Best Indian food you will get when visiting BLR. }} * {{eat | name=Monsoon | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Next to Taj Residency | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24 hr cafe with a variety of Continental Dishes, Indian, Southeast Asian and Mediterranean. Ideal location for private parties. }} * {{eat | name=Olive Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A long time favourite that will serve you Italian meats and cheese in a nice setting, this is still among Bangalore's best. }} * {{eat | name=The Raj Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=ITC Windsor Manor, Golf Course Rd. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24/7 restaurant that offers the taste of the British Raj. Anglo-Lucknowi, Far East and Continental cuisine is served. Amongst the best in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=Sunny's | alt= | url= | email= | address=34 Vittal Mallya Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at Embassy Diamante | phone=+91 80 5132-9366, +91 80 5132-9391 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=About ₹1,200 for a 3-course meal for two, excluding drinks | content=Among the best restaurants in Bangalore. Try the starters, salads and pasta is fine here. Hot sandwiches for lunch. Also has a branch at Indira Nagar. }} * {{drink | name=Vaayu | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th floor, Eve Mall, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has comfortable lounge seating, and is open air, giving some nice views over the city. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Café Coffee Day | alt= | url=http://www.cafecoffeeday.com | email= | address= | lat=12.97130 | long=77.60712 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4001 2345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popularly known as CCD. Established in 1996, at Brigade Road, Bangalore, the chain has over 1,000 cafes throughout India. It is found all over Bangalore. }} * {{drink | name=Coffee Workers Co-op | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St's Brigade Gardens | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable Bangalore institution, with waiters in traditional uniforms and customers slowly savoring the age-old tradition of coffee drinking - though there are just two choices of coffee: black or white. Have some delightful "masala dosa" here. }} * {{drink | name=Java City | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pleasant old Bangalore atmosphere. Offers a wide variety of tea, coffee from all over the world including pizza, pasta, pastries, cookies, you name it they have it plus you get to see a unique sense of humor in their menu and on the walls. On Saturday and Sunday evenings, there is live music, rock and guitar. This place is simple, expatriate friendly and not at all pricy. There is another Java City near Lavelle Road. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Bull n Bush | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500 cover charge | content=Plays hip hop, house and occasionally trance. }} * {{drink | name=The Bunker | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Carpe Diem | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's a Power Metal haven. }} * {{drink | name=Ego's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Castle Street, off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10AM-11:30PM | price= | content=The latest watering hole in Bangalore. Rock music across the board screened on large plasma panels; every song can not only be heard but seen as well. Coffee, Kingfisher beer, cocktails, food and Bangalore's first oxy bar. }} * {{drink | name=New Night Watchman | alt= | url= | email= | address=Corner of Church Street and Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Little bit dingy but helpful bar staff - satellite TV has the Australia Network so you can watch Rugby Union and AFL games. }} * {{drink | name=Pecos | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/PECOS.Pubs | email= | address=Rest House Rd (''Off Brigade Road'') | lat=12.97373 | long=77.60717 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4090 5462, +91 944 982 7428 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=60s retro pub with a mural of Jerry Garcia. Often crowded on all 3 floors, including the pleasant roof-top seating area. Free popcorn with every pitcher of beer. Cards are available for frequent customers which make every tenth pitcher of beer free, but you may have to ask several times in order to acquire one and to get it updated. }} * {{drink | name=Sparks | alt= | url= | email= | address=Brigade Road Extension, next to Brigade Towers | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Styx | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=next to Cauvery Handicrafts on MG Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They put the "Heavy" in heavy metal! }} * {{drink | name=Sultanate of Swing | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free entry | content=Mainly plays Rock, Retro, Heavy Metal and has a Video DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Tavern at The Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Windsor Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vasanth Nagar (''off Mount Carmel's in Kodava Samaja Building'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small place which serves only beer, good food and is nice for a family outing. But only limited tables. }} * {{drink | name=Zeus | url= | email= | address=#174 2nd Floor Manohar Crest, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=above Health n Glow | phone=+91 80 2532 3355 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11:30PM | price= | content=Sports bar and lounge. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=13th Floor | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barton Centre, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Make a reservation. amazing view from the 13th floor }} * {{drink | name=Arbor Brewing Company | alt=ABC | url=https://www.arborbrewing.in/ | email=info@arborbrewing.in | address=8 Magrath Rd, Allied Grande Plaza, Ashok Nagar | lat=12.97027 | long=77.61089 | directions=Opp. Garuda Mall, Magrath Rd | phone=+91 80501 44477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon to 12:30AM | price= | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=Microbrewery that serves Belgian Triple, Smooth Criminal and Brassiere Blonde. Some of the smoothest beers in town and serves pub-style food. Has a nice vibe though it gets crowded during the weekend. }} * {{drink | name=Aura | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Biere Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vittal Mallya Rd on Lavelle Road, (''opp Sunny's''). | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bangalore’s first craft brewery and a popular place for beer lovers. }} * {{drink | name=Blue Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=West End, Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=On weekends you need to buy drink-tickets for ₹1,500 to enter. | content=Excellent drinks if you make sure Joel makes them. Officially they have a couple's only policy. Spontaneous dancing likely next to the bar. }} * {{drink | name=Hint | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th Floor, Bangalore Central, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Tuesdays is ladies night (couples permitted). }} * {{drink | name=iBar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Kosmo (Formerly Cosmo Village) | alt= | url= | email= | address=81 Ali Askar Road Cross (''Off Cunningham Road'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=3 separate areas including a terrace. This nightclub is a remodeled colonial villa on a quiet lane, with excellent DJs and expensive drinks, and attracts a wealthy clientele. }} * {{drink | name=Taika | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St. (''Off Brigade Rd'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Usually open past midnight and has a huge dance floor. 3 bars and a lounge area. Entrance varies each night. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Citizen Lodge | url= | email= | address=Lady Curzon Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Bowring Hospital, about {{km|1}} from MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double non-A/C room costs around from ₹850 | content=Bare bones motel-style establishment is well located but leaves much to be desired in terms of cleanliness and overall quality. }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel 29th Church's Inn | alt = formerly Church Street Inn | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-bangalore/fabhotel-29th-church-inn-mg-road.html | email= | address=#29th Church Street, off M.G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 70424 24242 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Manju Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22200679 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Naga Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41220539 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Omshakthi palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 26707927 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Retirement Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Central Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-05-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Mount Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakkal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41580000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Royal Regency Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.royalregencylodge.com | email= | address=S. C. Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Movieland theater | phone=+91 80 4113 0202 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹1500? | content=Clean rooms and convenient to the city’s local transports like the City bus station and the City Railway Station. }} * {{sleep | name=T.A.P. Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road Avenue Road; cross near Abhinay Theatre & Menaka Theatre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22280522 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=U. G. Classic | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=UG Deluxe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Majestic, Thulsi Thotta | lat= | long= | directions=stop near the small road opposite Upparpet Police station and next to Navaruchi restaurant, then take right and then immediate left on a small lane and at the end of it take right and you will see the lodge on your right | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=A/C rooms - ₹750, Non-A/C rooms - ₹550 | content=You may want to take an auto instead of walking down if you are going after a rainy day as your shoes will get dirty. }} * {{sleep | name=Vardhaman Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ganesh Lodge Building OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026707552 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹320 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=YMCA | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nrupathunga Rd | lat=12.97109 | long=77.58765 | directions=Near Cubbon Park | phone=+91 80 2221 1848 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=No-frills hotel. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Ajantha | alt= | url=http://hotelajantha.in/ | email=reservation@hotelajantha.in | address=22 Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 4321 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Sgl/dbl from ₹1500/₹1900, Cottage A/C ₹2700 | content=Good simple hotel with a vegetarian restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western The Capitol | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raj Bhavan Rd | lat=12.98246 | long=77.59450 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2228 1234, +91 80 2228 1800 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Fortune Park JP Celestial | url=http://www.fortunehotels.in/hotel/Bengaluru-Fortune_Park_JP_Celestial.aspx | email= | address=Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4044-1234 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bangalore Gate | alt=res@bangaloregate.com | url=http://www.hotelbangaloregate.com/ | email=book@hotelbangaloregate.com | address=9 and 12, Gajanana Towers, K G Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 99 4533 3999 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout= noon | price=₹3,600-4,800 | content=Executive, superior and premium rooms. All rooms are A/C with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. 24-hour room service, 2 restaurants, ample car parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komfort Terraces | alt= | url=http://komfortgrouphotels.com/ | email= | address=No 301, 3rd floor, Bluemoon Complex M G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4009 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout=noon | price=₹2381 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel St. Marks | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vrindavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=off MG Rd and very near to MG. Rd/Brigade Rd junction | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Nice hotel with great South Indian food. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Woodlands | alt= | url= | email= | address=No 5, Rajaram Mohan Roy Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Richmond Circle | phone=+91 80 2222 5111 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Very clean hotel, great views of the city, delicious free South Indian breakfast buffet for ₹3,400 per night for an A/C double (two single beds pushed together). Nice location for exploring the city. Long walk to M.G. Road, Garuda Mall, and Commercial Street. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Heritage Block, the Taj West End, Bangalore.jpg|thumb|Taj West End]] * {{sleep | name=Chancery Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96582 | long=77.59868 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=About $200 | content=Nice business hotel, good service and food }} * {{sleep | name=The Gateway Hotel, Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/gateway/residency-road-bangalore/ | email=gateway.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=66, Residency Road | lat=12.976750 | long=77.575280 | directions= | phone=+91 8066604545 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-21 | content=The Gateway Hotel Bengaluru is among the top hotels in the city and has won the National Tourism Award for three years in a row. }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Gardenia | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcgardenia-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96697 | long=77.59556 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2211 9898 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402720 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Windsor | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcwindsor-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=25, Golf Course Rd | lat=12.99414 | long=77.58597 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2226 9898 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹17,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru | alt= | url= | email= | address=24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd | lat=12.97245 | long=77.59479 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6718-9999 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹15,340-27,140 | wikidata=Q111402713 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lalit Ashok Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.nivalink.com/grandbangalore/ | email=grandashok@nivalink.com | address=Kumara Krupa High Grounds | lat=12.99225 | long=77.58188 | directions= | phone=+91 80 22 2404 2211 9 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi | alt= | url=http://www.oberoibangalore.com/index.asp?leftinfo=1&leftitem=1 | email= | address=37-39 MG Rd | lat=12.97332 | long=77.618164 | directions= | phone=+91 80 25585858 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402705 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com/banglore_home.htm | email=resv.blr@theparkhotels.com | address=14/7 MG Rd | lat=12.97391 | long=77.61961 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402703 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Bengaluru City Center | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-bengaluru-city-center | email= | address= | lat=12.976319 | long=77.61953 | directions= | phone=+91 80 62210103 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402698 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Taj MG Road | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-mgroad-bengaluru/ | email=reservations.mgroad@tajhotels.com | address=41/3 MG Rd | lat=12.97328 | long=77.61985 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6660-4444 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402704 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj West End | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/ | email=westend.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=Race Course Rd | lat=12.98 | long=77.58 | directions= | phone=+91 80 5660-5660 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64343188 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Nestled amidst 20 acres of flora and defined by its illustrious heritage and colonial charm. Started by the Bronsons as a 10-room inn in 1887, it now has 117 magnificent rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Bengaluru Residency Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9725 | long=77.60857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402710 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} b5d3kwnz0iiwffqol2ylk4ptrf3ji94 5091192 5091190 2025-07-11T05:30:21Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Cubbon Park area */ 5091192 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=Central Bangalore}} '''Central Bangalore''' is the heart of the city. It contains the original mud fort, the old neighbourhoods and the British-era cantonment. For a long time, it ''was'' the city, or rather the agglomeration of two cities: Bangalore Pete and Bangalore Cantonment. The older Pete has narrow alleys and dense living, while the newer Cantonment has wide streets and more greenery. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.975|77.598|width=700|height=550|zoom=14|name=Map of Central Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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===By metro=== The '''Purple Line''' {{rint|bangalore|purple}} serves the entire Central Bangalore east-west, from Mahatma Gandhi Road to KSR station. The '''Green Line''' {{rint|bangalore|green}} runs across the district north-south, serving Majestic, Chickpet and KR Market. Majestic is the interchange of Purple and Green lines. ==See== [[File:Tipu Palace bangalore.JPG|thumb|Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.962875 | long=77.575956 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q4855049 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Built in 1537. A small part with massive granite walls, big gates, a dungeon and a small Ganesha temple is still intact. Check out the stone carving high up on the wall to your left after entering the massive wooden door. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Centre | alt=Visvesvaraya Towers | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.982425 | long=77.595785 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130215606 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government office complex, built on the site of the house of Sir M. Visvesvaraya after his death. Initially constructed for the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), it was later bought by the state government to house government offices. The brutalist architecture of this high-rise building at Cubbon Park area stands in sharp contrast to the neoclassical architecture of Vidhana Soudha, Attara Kacheri and the General Post Office. The general public is not allowed into the premises, unless they have an appointment at one of the offices. }} ===Cubbon Park area=== [[File:High_Court_of_Karnataka,_Bangalore_MMK.jpg|thumb|Attara Kacheri]] [[File:Government Museum Bangalore (48186334876).jpg|thumb|Government Museum]] [[File:Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.jpg|thumbnail|Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum]] * {{see | name=Attara Kacheri | alt= | url=http://hck.gov.in/ | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.978056 | long=77.5925 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q104755615 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A two-storey neoclassical red-painted stone and brick building, hosting the High Court of Karnataka. It was previously a secretariat of eighteen departments, built under the reign of king Devaraja Wadiyar II in 1701. The main structure of the building is surrounded on all sides by porticoes and verandahs. The entire building is surfaced with plaster and painted with red ochre. }} * {{see | name=General Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Kingfisher Towers | alt= | url= | email= | address=UB City | lat=12.97283 | long=77.59701 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kingfisher Towers Bangalore.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content=Probably the most famous high-rise residential building in Bangalore, despite not being the tallest in the city. The top of the building is occupied by a mansion, which is one of the few instances of a "building atop a building" in India. }} * {{see | name=Government Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9747 | long=77.5958 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q372869 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Established in 1865, the museum is flanked by the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum and the Venkatappa Art Gallery. It is an archaeological museum with a rare collection of archaeological and geological artefacts, including old jewellery, sculpture, coins and inscriptions. The museum is also home to the Halmidi inscription, the earliest writing in Kannada (450 CE). }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address=22, Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-7:30PM | price=2 free exhibitions, 2 paid exhibitions (₹150 combined) | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This museum presents 4 exhibitions (2 free and 2 paid, ₹150) and contains a café, restaurant and library over 5 stories. It's well worth a visit and takes about 2 hours. }} * {{see | name=Seshadari Iyer Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9746 | long=77.5907 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-14 | content=A distinctive red sandstone building, hosting the State Central Library. }} * {{see | name=Venkatappa Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974236 | long=77.595302 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24950240 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Vidhana Soudha | alt=Karnataka Legislative Assembly | url= | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.979693 | long=77.590658 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q283257 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=This granite building houses the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. It was built during the tenure of K. Hanumanthaiya, Chief Minister of Mysore State (1951–1956). A marvel of neo-Dravidian architecture, and one of the most imposing buildings in India. One of the interesting features of this building are the grand stairs in its front. The steps of the grand stairs are {{m|62}} wide and {{m|21}} deep, giving direct access to the foyer of the first floor leading to an assembly chamber. The architecture comprises of Dravidian richly carved bases and capitals for pillars, deep friezes, kapotha cornices, chaithya arches, heavy pediments domical finials. At the same time, the construction uses modern designs, making use of present-day materials like steel, reinforced concrete, glass, and plastic. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the ground or the building. It can only be viewed from the road and footpath outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Vikasa Soudha | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.978318 | long=77.589297 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65109682 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=Located next to Vidhana Soudha, built in the same classic style. It was inaugurated in 2005. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the premises. It can only be viewed from outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum | alt=VITM | url=https://www.vismuseum.gov.in/ | email=vitmuseum@gmail.com | address= | lat=12.9751 | long=77.5964 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+91 80-22866200 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-5:30PM (closed in Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali) | price= | wikidata=Q3537014 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Contains many fun learning activities and exhibitions that can be enjoyed by adults and children. Most exhibits are based on simple science, but some have industrial applications. For general visitors entry fee is ₹40. Some groups receive discounts (organised school groups, BPL Category when showing valid BPL card, etc). Entry is free for military and police personnel in uniform, the physically challenged, and children below 5 years of age. There is also a 3D show costing an extra ₹25 (for general public). }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Gandhi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kumara Park E | lat=12.988117 | long=77.579826 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60771806 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The museum consists of a gallery with rare photographs of Mahatma Gandhi and letters written by him, a library and an auditorium. It serves as a venue for meetings organised on Gandhian values in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=J's La Quill Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakachitrakalaparishath.com/index.php#gallery | email= | address= | lat=12.989167 | long=77.578367 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6372843 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A visual art complex with 18 galleries, 13 of which carry a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures and folk art. The folk art collection showcases Mysore paintings and leather puppets. }} * {{see | name=Kempegowda Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.974092 | long=77.610754 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM–5PM (closed Su) | price=Free | wikidata=Q6387055 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government museum dedicated to Bangalore's founder Kempe Gowda. It is housed in the Mayo Hall, which was built in memory of Lord Mayo, the 4th Viceroy of India. This two-storey building is known for its ornate furniture and architecture. It is adorned by chandeliers, Greek cornices, Tuscan columns, stone arches, wooden floors and beautiful furnishings. The building itself offers a panoramic view of the city's Parade Grounds and Ulsoor Lake on one side, and the Bangalore Race Course and Brigade Grounds on the south. }} * {{see | name=National Military Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.985521 | long=77.590458 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q18379547 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=A memorial-cum-museum dedicated to the personnel and families of martyrs who have died in the service of the nation. The collection in the museum include mockups of missiles like AKASH, Prithvi and BrahMos and rockets like Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). }} * {{see | name=National Gallery of Modern Art | alt=NGMA | url=http://ngmaindia.gov.in/ngma_bangaluru.asp | email= | address=49, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd | lat=12.989705 | long=77.58815 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa Su 11AM-7:30PM, Tu-F 11AM-6PM | price=₹20 for Indian citizens, ₹500 for foreigners | wikidata=Q17077814 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The National Gallery of Modern Art houses an auditorium, café, shop and exhibitions of modern and contemporary art in a beautiful building. The gallery organises and hosts talks on art and culture by speakers, seminars, film screenings as well as workshops and guided walks throughout the year. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Albert Victor Rd | lat=12.959494 | long=77.573572 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone=+91 80 2670 6836 | tollfree= | hours=daily 9:30AM-5:30PM | price=₹20 for Indians/SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens and ₹250 for foreigners (tickets only available online, you will need a phone with a QR code scanner and mobile data) | wikidata=Q7809034 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Dating to about 1790, it was the summer retreat for Tipu Sultan. The two-storey structure is made mostly out of wood with finely embellished balconies, pillars and arches. It contains a small museum with information on Tipu Sultan. }} ===Natural attractions=== * {{see | name=Lalbagh Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.95 | long=77.59 | directions=metro: {{station|Lalbagh|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q200711 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Built during the reigns of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, the botanical garden is home to numerous wild species of birds and other wildlife. The garden also has a lake adjoining a large rock is home to some water birds. Flower shows are conducted annually during the weeks of Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August) to educate the public about the variety of flora and foster public interest in plant conservation and cultivation. }} ===Places of worship=== [[File:Holy Trinity Church Bangalore Entrance.jpg|thumb|The entrance to the Holy Trinity Church]] ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Holy Trinity Church | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.972118 | long=77.620622 | directions=at Trinity circle at the east end of the MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5886431 | content=A major landmark of Central Bangalore. It was built in 1851, for the British Regiment stationed in Bangalore. Built-in the English Renaissance style, the church can accommodate 700 people and is regarded as the largest military church in southern India. It has a congregation of over 450 families. }} * {{see | name=Hudson Memorial Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hudson Circle | lat=12.967401 | long=77.587911 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24937604 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=Established in 1904 and named after missionary and scholar Rev. Josiah Hudson, who was responsible for opening Kannada schools in Bangalore Pete. The church attracts people of all faiths, especially in Thursdays and Sundays. }} * {{see | name=St. Andrew's Church | alt= | url=http://standrewschurch.org.in | email= | address=Cubbon Rd | lat=12.9792 | long=77.6042 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898472 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A Presbyterian church, consecrated in memory of Mary Elizabeth McGoun, wife of Col. Thomas McGoun of the 6th Madras Native Infantry. It is an example of Gothic architecture in the city, with a steeping roof of Mangalore tiles, a row of decorative ridge-tiles on the top, turreted parapets and gables, iron crested towers, intricately done plaster motifs, railings of cast iron, and pilasters and pavilions rising from the wing. }} * {{see | name=St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.parramattacathedral.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.992679 | long=77.611314 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7588004 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=St. John's Church | alt= | url=http://stjohnschurchbangalore.com/ | email= | address= | lat=12.9918 | long=77.613 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898476 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The fourth oldest Protestant church in the city, with a distinct red edifice and towering steeple, rising out of the leafy surroundings. There's a memorial in front of the church for its members who lost their lives in service of 'King and Empire', in World War I. }} * {{see | name=St. Mark's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.saintmarks.in | email= | address= | lat=12.97606 | long=77.60034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898479 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=The sole cathedral of Bangalore is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist. It is famous for its English Baroque architecture inspired by [[London]]'s St Paul's Cathedral. The entrance has elaborate woodwork with ornate carvings. The bell is the amongst the most well-maintained church bells in India. The stained glasswork adds to the beauty of the cathedral. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Basilica | alt= | url=http://www.stmarysbasilica.in/ | email= | address= | lat=12.984417 | long=77.60425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7590089 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content=The oldest church in Bangalore, and the only church in the state which has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities held during the St. Mary's Feast in the month of September each year, an event that attracts devotees from in and around Bangalore. The basilica is built in Gothic style with arches, ornamental motifs and stained glass windows. Multiple columns and tall spires of the basilica can be seen from quite a distance. The stained glass windows were removed during World War II and were subsequently restored in 1947. }} ====Temples==== * {{see | name=Dharmaraya Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.965444 | long=77.583389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2065042 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=One of the oldest temples of Bangalore and also the smallest, the Temple has existed since the times of Kempe Gowda. It is on S.P. Road close to Corporation Circle, behind the LIC building. This temple is famous for the Annual Karaga Festival held every summer. The Presiding Deity is Dharmaraya (Yudishthira) & Consort Draupadi, making it a unique one of its kind. }} * {{see | name=Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.959524 | long=77.574305 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}}, next to Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6433914 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A fine example of Dravidian architecture, built by Maharaja Chikkadevaraya Wodeyar. }} * {{see | name=Maha Bodhi Society Temple | url= | email= | address=No. 14, Kalidas Road, Gandhi Nagar | lat=12.97817 | long=77.58069 | directions=northwest rim of Freedom Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at [[Bodh Gaya]]. The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English. }} * {{see | name=Someshwara Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Halasuru | lat=12.975556 | long=77.623889 | directions=close to Halasuru Police station; metro: {{station|Halasuru|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q16891973 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples of the city. The inner sanctum sanctorum is said to have been built in the 8th century by the Cholas, who ruled this place, the outer Praharam during the Hoysalas of the 11th century, while the front hall construction and the Gopuram during the Vijayanagar Empire of the 15th century. The structure resembles the various changes the temple has gone through during the period, with major additions and renovations done to preserve the temple. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Bangalore Race Course | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98235 | long=77.58094 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{do | name=Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium | alt= | url=http://www.taralaya.org/ | email=info@taralaya.org | address=Bangalore Association for Science Education, Sri T. Choudaiah Road, High Grounds | lat=12.98486 | long=77.58954 | directions=opposite Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, Near Raj Bhavan | phone=+91 80-22379725 | tollfree= | hours=12:30-4:30PM (closed M and second Th) | price=₹35 for adults and ₹20 for school students and children (up to 16 years), children below 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky-Theatre | wikidata=Q6987903 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A very good planetarium for adults and children alike. Shows are offered in Kannada and English. Each show is about 30 minutes long. There are about 200 seats available for each show. A ticket can be used only for the show mentioned on the ticket, and is non-refundable if you miss that show. }} * {{do | name=Sir Puttanna Chetty Town Hall | alt=Bangalore Town Hall | url= | email= | address=112 JC Road | lat=12.96376 | long=77.58579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4855080 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A neoclassical building. The structure features a flight of steps leading to the entrance porch resting on Tuscan columns with identical columns extending on either sides. The auditorium has two floors with a total capacity of 810 seats. }} * {{do | name=Urvashi Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lalbagh Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Lalbagh Main gate & MTR | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-08 | content=A cool remodified theatre that allows a 1st hand experience in watching movies. One of the oldest theatres and important landmark of the City }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Chitra Santhe (Paintings market) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.99053 | long=77.58234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An annual exhibition, held on the first Sunday of every year in January, the Chitra Santhe on Kumara Krupa Road (near Golf Course) brings together artists from all across Karnataka. Paintings, pottery, and sculpture are all on an exhibition-cum-sale. The road is closed to traffic on that day, making it possible to have a leisurely stroll, admiring and buying the items. Prices range from ₹100-20,000. Bargaining is recommended, but not too hard. Pay a fair price. (Credit cards and foreign currency are rarely accepted, so carry sufficient cash in Indian currency). }} * {{do | name=Flower Show (Biannual) | alt= | url= | email= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 9AM to 5PM | price= ₹50 entry fees | content=A bi-annual affair at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, during the Independence Day (August 15th) & Republic Day (January 26th). Various companies display their floral exhibits in this period, normally held from a week before the above-mentioned days. The main epicentre would be a Rose arrangement representing a theme, or a heritage structure, which attracts major crowd from around Bangalore. }} * {{do | name=Mango Mela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM to 5PM | price=₹30 entry fees | content=An annual affair, at the beginning of summer, the season for the king of fruits. Normally, mangoes (raw & ripe), cultivated in Bangalore Rural and Ramanagara, as well as in neighbouring Kolar and Chikballapur, are brought and kept for show as well as sale during this period, at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. A must-visit for mango fans. }} ===Parks and stadiums=== * {{do | name=Cubbon Park | alt=Sri Chamarajendra Udyanavana | url=http://www.horticulture.kar.nic.in/cubbon.htm | email= | address= | lat=12.975 | long=77.593333 | directions=opposite to Chinnaswamy Stadium, {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3633776 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A nice forested area in the city centre. The entrance from Queen's Statue forms the tourist attraction owing to the presence of the Government Aquarium and Bal Bhavan, a play area for kids. '''Puttaani Express''' a small toy train for kids, runs inside the Bal Bhavan, attracting kids from far and near. For attractions around the park, see the [[#Cubbon Park area|Cubbon Park area]] subsection of See. }} * {{do | name=Freedom Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.977272 | long=77.581844 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5500576 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A park built on the grounds of a prison. It is also used for public protests. }} * {{do | name=M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat=12.978806 | long=77.599556 | directions={{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+90 80 4015 4015 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1861907 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=With a capacity of 40,000, this is the home of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has a large and loud following. The IPL season typically is from March to May every year, matches are played in the evenings and last around 3 hours. Scour the daily newspapers for ticket information - tickets sell out a week before. }} * {{do | name=Sree Kanteerava Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.969556 | long=77.593469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7585638 | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=A multi-purpose stadium with a running track, a volleyball court, and two outdoor rock-climbing walls. }} * {{do | name=Ulsoor Lake | alt=Halasuru lake | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.981472 | long=77.619214 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30587793 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore, with several islands. There's a watch tower with a Chinese bell on the lake. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=SPA.ce | alt= | url=http://www.spacethespa.com | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by an expat Brit. Offers a variety of massages, scrubs, and facials. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française de Bangalore | alt= | url=http://bangalore.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Thimmaiah Rd, Kaverappa Layout | lat=12.991477 | long=77.596851 | directions= | phone=+91 7899562404 | tollfree= | hours=9:30AM&ndash;5:30PM (closed S) | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Offers French language courses. }} ==Buy== * The '''UB City''' and '''Vittal Mallya Road''' are Page-3 shopping areas. You'll find brands like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Kimaya in the UB City. Vittal Mallya Road has stores like '''The Collective''' which is a shop only for men. Armani, Versace, Boss, you name it, they have it. There's even Canary Blue and Esprit on the same road. * {{buy | name=Brigade Road/M.G. Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97520 | long=77.60817 | directions=metro: {{station|MG Road|purple}} right next to the intersection of both roads | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The most popular place for tourists. These two roads are filled with shops of every kind, whether it be traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear (this is especially true for Brigade Road). Brigade Road, where British soldiers used to buy their necessities, is now the centre of yuppie Bangalore; you'll see hordes of college students on the road any time of day or night. Stores on Brigade Road include: Planet M (a huge music store with everything), Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Phillipe, Pepe Jeans, Levis, Lee, SanFrisco Jeans, Nike, and Titan (great Indian made watches). There are also many eateries on Brigade road and on the side roads that lead off it. Fast food outlets include KFC (right at the entrance), Pizza Hut (at the other end of the road), and many cafes including the Indian coffee chain Cafe Coffee Day. Also includes a tattoo studio. M.G. Road is short for Mahatma Gandhi road. }} * {{buy | name=Commercial Street | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98219 | long=77.60824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A legacy of the British is another shopping mecca that sells international brands (similar to Brigade road) alongside locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. In addition, it is famous for its body piercing centres. The price of goods here is very competitive and it is a great place to pick a bargain. }} * {{buy | name=Krishna Rajendra Market | alt=KR Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.96563 | long=77.57636 | directions=metro: {{station|KR Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The city's largest vegetable and fruit market. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Gangarams Book Bureau | alt= | url=http://gangaramsbookbureau.com/ | email=gangaramsinternational@gmail.com | address=#3, Church Street, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-11 | content=Since 1977, a destination for booklovers with books in a diverse range from academic, professional and technical to fiction and non-fiction. }} * {{buy | name=Blossoms | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=parallel to MG Rd and nearby Coconut Grove Restaurant | phone=+91 80 255 9733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are 3 full floors of those rare, hard to find old books. All 2nd hand, good condition and at low rates. }} * {{buy | name=The Bookworm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Church Street, opposite Starbucks | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a small used book store. Good bargains on used and new books are available here. }} * {{buy | name=Crossword | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=ACR Towers, opposite Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558 2411-16 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks, music and movie section, children's section and a coffee shop. A wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop. }} * {{buy | name=Elloor Library | url= | email= | address=Blue Cross Chambers, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=close to Commercial St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Requires membership which includes a deposit. }} * {{buy | name=Gangarams Mg road | url= | email=gangarams@vsnl.com | address=Triumph Tower, 2nd Floor, 48 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite High Gates Hotel and Mainland China; Church Street is parallel to Mahatma Gandhi ("MG") Road | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa | price= | content=A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works. }} * {{buy | name=Goobes Book Republic | url=http://www.goobes.wordpress.com | email=goobesbookrepublic@gmail.com | address=46-1-1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=in the basement of Church Street Inn, Budget Hotel, near MG Rd | phone=+91 80 4112 4956 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Secondhand and new books on a wide variety of subjects and a very cost effective library option and buy back used books. }} * {{buy | name=Higginbothams | alt= | url= | email= | address=68 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7359, +91 80 2558 6574 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This bookstore has a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels. }} * {{buy | name=Premier Book Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address=46/1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone=+91 80 2558 8570 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down. This store however, will shut down shortly. }} * {{buy | name=Sapna Book House | url=http://www.sapnaonline.com/ | email= | address=3rd Main Rd, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Walking distance from Majestic Bus stand | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a large bookstore, they also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery. }} * {{buy | name=Select Bookshop | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd Behind Curzon Court Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books. }} * {{buy | name=The Strand book stall | alt= | url=http://www.strandbookstall.com/ | email= | address=Dickenson Rd | lat= | long= | directions=1st Floor, Manipal Centre | phone=+91 80 2558 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Mahendra Textiles | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4124 9900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sarees and dress materials from Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kerala and Sri Lanka. }} * {{buy | name=Marmalade | alt= | url= | email= | address=Magrath Rd | lat= | long= | directions=adj to Spratt Salon; left before Coffee Day, on Brigade Rd Extn | phone=+91 80 4122 1814 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of affordable young designer wear. }} * {{buy | name=Native Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=behind Museum Rd Post Office, Museum Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of interesting merchandise, crafts made by NGOs, c/o The Only Place Restaurant. }} * {{buy | name=One G | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4123 1231 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(Jewellery) Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Rd. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of [[Mysore]] sandalwood are an especially good buy. }} * {{buy | name=Central Cottage Industries Emporium | alt=CCIE | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], Bangalore and [[Chennai]]. }} * {{buy | name=Chandi - The Divine Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Shop No. 12, First Floor, Public Utility Building | phone=+91 80 4112 3590, +91 80 4112 3610 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialising in Indian divine figures in all mediums. Claims to have the biggest collection of Ganeshas in town. High-quality and locally-priced wares, supposedly no pushy salesmanship. }} * {{buy | name=Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialises in Karnataka handicraft. }} ===Jewellery=== * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons | alt=Diamond Flagship Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=2-1 Main Cross Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Safina Plaza | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content={{convert|14000|ft2}} dedicated to the finest gold and diamond jewellery, spread over two floors. }} * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons-The Heritage Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=35 & 36 Commercial St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Dedicated to gold and silver. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Garuda Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97004 | long=77.60968 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads. }} * {{buy | name=Safina Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97977 | long=77.60696 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The sale capital of Bangalore, on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi). }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Annapoorna | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ulsoor | lat= | long= | directions=near Sai Baba Temple in Ulsoor. Need to get down at Ulsoor police station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pure vegetarian food in Tamil style. }} * {{eat | name=Bheemas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you have the penchant for spice this place is meant for you. }} * {{eat | name=I-Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Park, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Expensive, but arguably the best Italian food in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kudla | alt= | url=http://www.ramanashree.com/ | email= | address=Ramanashree Comforts, Richmond Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For seafood, serves excellent dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Oh! Calcutta | alt= | url= | email= | address=St Mark's Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Part of a chain of restaurants across the country, and the best Bengali food available in the city albeit pricier than the other options. }} * {{eat | name=Pabrai's Fresh and Naturalle Ice Cream | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood Street, Ashok Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6453 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Palms | alt= | url= | email= | address=33 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=at the Highgates Hotel | phone=+91 80 2559 7172 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Coorgi, and Malabari style. (shut for renovations) }} * {{eat | name=Queens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church Street, opposite Amoeba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small restaurant but great food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=RRs | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A renovation of the vintage RRs, the fun doubles here with the double storeyed restaurant, one serving Andhra and the other Hyderabadi cuisines. There's also alcohol, all the more reason to indulge on a Saturday afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Tijouri | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Atria, Palace Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2220 5205 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Delicacy| url= | email= | address=105 Dickenson's road, Manipal Centre| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Majestic | url= | email= | address=(''next to Fkcci Bldg''), KG Rd| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Anupams Coastal Express | url= | email= | address=Shivananda Circle | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They make fantastic fish dishes. Neer Dosa with Chicken Pulimunchi, kori roti and chicken ghee roast are some things you really cannot miss. }} * {{eat | name=Bobby-da-Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Lavanya Theatre, St John's Road, Near Ulsoor | lat=12.98369 | long=77.61391 | directions= | phone=+91 96 6367 8382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-3:45PM, 7:30PM-11PM | price= | content=The food is good (albeit slightly oily). It basically serves paranthas (with lots of butter), chaach, kheer and a number of side dishes (most notable being their shahi paneer and rajma). You may have to wait for a while in case it is full. So it's better to go slightly early, noon for lunch and 7:30PM for dinner to avoid rush). }} * {{eat | name=Coconut Grove | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97526 | long=77.60433 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Appams and Kerala parottas with a chicken sauce dish. Their lunch offer for ₹80 is also really good. A pretty good choice for reasonably priced quality seafood. Coco-Grove the outdoor 'beer cafe' extension is also worth a look. }} * {{eat | name=Fanoos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=adjoining Johnson Market, off Brigade Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the joints for getting sheekh (beef) rolls in Bangalore. They come in various sizes- sheekh roll, sheekh jumbo, sheekh mambo, sheekh rambo and sheekh sambo- the latter of which is almost 2 in thick. There are other options like chicken, mutton and paneer rolls as well as kababs and shawarma. ₹30-100 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Indian Coffee House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97474 | long=77.60533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=KC Das | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97588 | long=77.60179 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Bengali sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Kohinoor | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves very reasonably priced Kerala Muslim style food. }} * {{eat | name=Lake View Milk Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent ice creams, club sandwiches and burgers. }} * {{eat | name=Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) | alt= | url= | email= | address=11 Lal Bagh Rd | lat=12.9551857 | long=77.58556020000003 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2222 0022, +91 80 22221706 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-10-27| content=One of the very old traditional breakfast places in Bangalore. There are a few people who have been having their breakfast at MTR every day for the past 15 years. Closed between 2:45-3:30PM. Expect a long wait on weekends. Traditional 12-course Karnataka lunches are also available here for around ₹90 per head. Advance reservations recommended at weekends. Rava idlis, dosas and bisi bele bath are excellent. It has maintained its quality over the years and is very famous. It is on the road perpendicular to Lal bagh main gate. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Alibaba Cafe & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 7163 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Frazer Town. Arabian, Persian and Bhatkali cuisine described as "An Arabian Lake in the Indian Ocean". A themed restaurant with the feel of Arabia, Persia and India. The "Shaiya Biryani" of the Bhatkali cuisine, the Al faham chicken barbecue out of the Arabian cuisine and the chicken Jujeh kabab from the Persian cuisine are all recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Caesar's Multi Cuisine Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahalakshmi Chambers, 9/2, MG Rd. | lat= | long= | directions=beside HSBC bank opposite ING Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6:30PM–11:30PM | price= | content=Indian and continental food. Classic environment. The ambience is good, though the food is a tad expensive. Parking is a problem. }} * {{eat | name=Canopy | url= | email= | address=PU Building, M.G. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open air, multi-cuisine North-Indian food. Cooking techniques date back to the independence era offering the unique taste. Great outdoor ambiance in the middle of the central business district. ₹125-750 }} * {{eat | name=Ebony | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=on the 13th floor of the tallest building on MG Rd, Utility building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Stylish eatery with excellent evening views of the city. Service is a bit slow, but the ambiance makes it worth the wait. Book ahead for a terrace seat. ₹200-400 }} * {{eat | name=Koshy's | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat=12.97579 | long=77.60147 | directions=Below Church St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Bangalore institution, serving a smattering of Western favorites (like fish and chips) along with the usual South Indian fare in a bohemian-for-India atmosphere. On weekends, they serve up greasy Western-style breakfast, including omelettes and Bombay (i.e, French) Toast. Appam and stew is their Sunday breakfast special and a must eat. Turn right at the entrance for the more expensive (and decidedly less charming) A/C room. ₹50-200. Smoky, with sluggish service, and not particularly clean Koshy's still has plenty of character and history but its getting harder to justify their skyrocketing prices. }} * {{eat | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hot coffee to chilled Kingfisher beer on the tap awesome cocktails and even hand rolled Havana cigars. Salads, sandwiches, jacket baked potatoes to entrees. LRC also offers an Oxy Bar, Bangalore's first. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=Near Museum Rd | phone=+91 80 2227 7722, +91 90 2224 5864 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Upscale Chinese food. Good, fairly authentic food and excellent service. Serves a decent lunch buffet. Also new outlet on 100ft Road, Indiranagar. ₹500-800. }} * {{eat | name=Pinxx | url= | email= | address=Manipal centre | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place for Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. ₹200-400 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Samarkand | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gem Plaza, 66, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=East of Central St | phone=+91 80 4111 3366 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=North West frontier food (i.e., kebabs, Afghani) in a kitschy atmosphere but the food is great. You will need to book on weekends. ₹300-600. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Blue Ginger | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/restaurants/blue-ginger/ | email= | address=Taj West End | lat= | long= | directions=just next door to Blue Bar | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=High-end Vietnamese restaurant with a beautiful setting and excellent food. }} * {{eat | name=Graze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Taj Residency, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has some of the best creative continental you will get in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=I.Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Opposite 1 MG, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has the best Italian food in town }} * {{eat | name=Karavalli | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at the Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558-4545 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine. Best Indian food you will get when visiting BLR. }} * {{eat | name=Monsoon | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Next to Taj Residency | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24 hr cafe with a variety of Continental Dishes, Indian, Southeast Asian and Mediterranean. Ideal location for private parties. }} * {{eat | name=Olive Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A long time favourite that will serve you Italian meats and cheese in a nice setting, this is still among Bangalore's best. }} * {{eat | name=The Raj Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=ITC Windsor Manor, Golf Course Rd. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24/7 restaurant that offers the taste of the British Raj. Anglo-Lucknowi, Far East and Continental cuisine is served. Amongst the best in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=Sunny's | alt= | url= | email= | address=34 Vittal Mallya Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at Embassy Diamante | phone=+91 80 5132-9366, +91 80 5132-9391 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=About ₹1,200 for a 3-course meal for two, excluding drinks | content=Among the best restaurants in Bangalore. Try the starters, salads and pasta is fine here. Hot sandwiches for lunch. Also has a branch at Indira Nagar. }} * {{drink | name=Vaayu | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th floor, Eve Mall, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has comfortable lounge seating, and is open air, giving some nice views over the city. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Café Coffee Day | alt= | url=http://www.cafecoffeeday.com | email= | address= | lat=12.97130 | long=77.60712 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4001 2345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popularly known as CCD. Established in 1996, at Brigade Road, Bangalore, the chain has over 1,000 cafes throughout India. It is found all over Bangalore. }} * {{drink | name=Coffee Workers Co-op | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St's Brigade Gardens | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable Bangalore institution, with waiters in traditional uniforms and customers slowly savoring the age-old tradition of coffee drinking - though there are just two choices of coffee: black or white. Have some delightful "masala dosa" here. }} * {{drink | name=Java City | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pleasant old Bangalore atmosphere. Offers a wide variety of tea, coffee from all over the world including pizza, pasta, pastries, cookies, you name it they have it plus you get to see a unique sense of humor in their menu and on the walls. On Saturday and Sunday evenings, there is live music, rock and guitar. This place is simple, expatriate friendly and not at all pricy. There is another Java City near Lavelle Road. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Bull n Bush | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500 cover charge | content=Plays hip hop, house and occasionally trance. }} * {{drink | name=The Bunker | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Carpe Diem | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's a Power Metal haven. }} * {{drink | name=Ego's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Castle Street, off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10AM-11:30PM | price= | content=The latest watering hole in Bangalore. Rock music across the board screened on large plasma panels; every song can not only be heard but seen as well. Coffee, Kingfisher beer, cocktails, food and Bangalore's first oxy bar. }} * {{drink | name=New Night Watchman | alt= | url= | email= | address=Corner of Church Street and Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Little bit dingy but helpful bar staff - satellite TV has the Australia Network so you can watch Rugby Union and AFL games. }} * {{drink | name=Pecos | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/PECOS.Pubs | email= | address=Rest House Rd (''Off Brigade Road'') | lat=12.97373 | long=77.60717 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4090 5462, +91 944 982 7428 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=60s retro pub with a mural of Jerry Garcia. Often crowded on all 3 floors, including the pleasant roof-top seating area. Free popcorn with every pitcher of beer. Cards are available for frequent customers which make every tenth pitcher of beer free, but you may have to ask several times in order to acquire one and to get it updated. }} * {{drink | name=Sparks | alt= | url= | email= | address=Brigade Road Extension, next to Brigade Towers | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Styx | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=next to Cauvery Handicrafts on MG Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They put the "Heavy" in heavy metal! }} * {{drink | name=Sultanate of Swing | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free entry | content=Mainly plays Rock, Retro, Heavy Metal and has a Video DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Tavern at The Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Windsor Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vasanth Nagar (''off Mount Carmel's in Kodava Samaja Building'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small place which serves only beer, good food and is nice for a family outing. But only limited tables. }} * {{drink | name=Zeus | url= | email= | address=#174 2nd Floor Manohar Crest, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=above Health n Glow | phone=+91 80 2532 3355 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11:30PM | price= | content=Sports bar and lounge. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=13th Floor | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barton Centre, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Make a reservation. amazing view from the 13th floor }} * {{drink | name=Arbor Brewing Company | alt=ABC | url=https://www.arborbrewing.in/ | email=info@arborbrewing.in | address=8 Magrath Rd, Allied Grande Plaza, Ashok Nagar | lat=12.97027 | long=77.61089 | directions=Opp. Garuda Mall, Magrath Rd | phone=+91 80501 44477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon to 12:30AM | price= | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=Microbrewery that serves Belgian Triple, Smooth Criminal and Brassiere Blonde. Some of the smoothest beers in town and serves pub-style food. Has a nice vibe though it gets crowded during the weekend. }} * {{drink | name=Aura | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Biere Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vittal Mallya Rd on Lavelle Road, (''opp Sunny's''). | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bangalore’s first craft brewery and a popular place for beer lovers. }} * {{drink | name=Blue Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=West End, Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=On weekends you need to buy drink-tickets for ₹1,500 to enter. | content=Excellent drinks if you make sure Joel makes them. Officially they have a couple's only policy. Spontaneous dancing likely next to the bar. }} * {{drink | name=Hint | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th Floor, Bangalore Central, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Tuesdays is ladies night (couples permitted). }} * {{drink | name=iBar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Kosmo (Formerly Cosmo Village) | alt= | url= | email= | address=81 Ali Askar Road Cross (''Off Cunningham Road'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=3 separate areas including a terrace. This nightclub is a remodeled colonial villa on a quiet lane, with excellent DJs and expensive drinks, and attracts a wealthy clientele. }} * {{drink | name=Taika | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St. (''Off Brigade Rd'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Usually open past midnight and has a huge dance floor. 3 bars and a lounge area. Entrance varies each night. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Citizen Lodge | url= | email= | address=Lady Curzon Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Bowring Hospital, about {{km|1}} from MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double non-A/C room costs around from ₹850 | content=Bare bones motel-style establishment is well located but leaves much to be desired in terms of cleanliness and overall quality. }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel 29th Church's Inn | alt = formerly Church Street Inn | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-bangalore/fabhotel-29th-church-inn-mg-road.html | email= | address=#29th Church Street, off M.G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 70424 24242 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Manju Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22200679 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Naga Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41220539 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Omshakthi palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 26707927 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Retirement Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Central Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-05-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Mount Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakkal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41580000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Royal Regency Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.royalregencylodge.com | email= | address=S. C. Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Movieland theater | phone=+91 80 4113 0202 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹1500? | content=Clean rooms and convenient to the city’s local transports like the City bus station and the City Railway Station. }} * {{sleep | name=T.A.P. Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road Avenue Road; cross near Abhinay Theatre & Menaka Theatre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22280522 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=U. G. Classic | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=UG Deluxe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Majestic, Thulsi Thotta | lat= | long= | directions=stop near the small road opposite Upparpet Police station and next to Navaruchi restaurant, then take right and then immediate left on a small lane and at the end of it take right and you will see the lodge on your right | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=A/C rooms - ₹750, Non-A/C rooms - ₹550 | content=You may want to take an auto instead of walking down if you are going after a rainy day as your shoes will get dirty. }} * {{sleep | name=Vardhaman Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ganesh Lodge Building OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026707552 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹320 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=YMCA | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nrupathunga Rd | lat=12.97109 | long=77.58765 | directions=Near Cubbon Park | phone=+91 80 2221 1848 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=No-frills hotel. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Ajantha | alt= | url=http://hotelajantha.in/ | email=reservation@hotelajantha.in | address=22 Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 4321 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Sgl/dbl from ₹1500/₹1900, Cottage A/C ₹2700 | content=Good simple hotel with a vegetarian restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western The Capitol | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raj Bhavan Rd | lat=12.98246 | long=77.59450 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2228 1234, +91 80 2228 1800 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Fortune Park JP Celestial | url=http://www.fortunehotels.in/hotel/Bengaluru-Fortune_Park_JP_Celestial.aspx | email= | address=Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4044-1234 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bangalore Gate | alt=res@bangaloregate.com | url=http://www.hotelbangaloregate.com/ | email=book@hotelbangaloregate.com | address=9 and 12, Gajanana Towers, K G Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 99 4533 3999 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout= noon | price=₹3,600-4,800 | content=Executive, superior and premium rooms. All rooms are A/C with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. 24-hour room service, 2 restaurants, ample car parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komfort Terraces | alt= | url=http://komfortgrouphotels.com/ | email= | address=No 301, 3rd floor, Bluemoon Complex M G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4009 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout=noon | price=₹2381 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel St. Marks | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vrindavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=off MG Rd and very near to MG. Rd/Brigade Rd junction | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Nice hotel with great South Indian food. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Woodlands | alt= | url= | email= | address=No 5, Rajaram Mohan Roy Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Richmond Circle | phone=+91 80 2222 5111 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Very clean hotel, great views of the city, delicious free South Indian breakfast buffet for ₹3,400 per night for an A/C double (two single beds pushed together). Nice location for exploring the city. Long walk to M.G. Road, Garuda Mall, and Commercial Street. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Heritage Block, the Taj West End, Bangalore.jpg|thumb|Taj West End]] * {{sleep | name=Chancery Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96582 | long=77.59868 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=About $200 | content=Nice business hotel, good service and food }} * {{sleep | name=The Gateway Hotel, Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/gateway/residency-road-bangalore/ | email=gateway.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=66, Residency Road | lat=12.976750 | long=77.575280 | directions= | phone=+91 8066604545 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-21 | content=The Gateway Hotel Bengaluru is among the top hotels in the city and has won the National Tourism Award for three years in a row. }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Gardenia | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcgardenia-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96697 | long=77.59556 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2211 9898 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402720 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Windsor | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcwindsor-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=25, Golf Course Rd | lat=12.99414 | long=77.58597 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2226 9898 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹17,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru | alt= | url= | email= | address=24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd | lat=12.97245 | long=77.59479 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6718-9999 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹15,340-27,140 | wikidata=Q111402713 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lalit Ashok Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.nivalink.com/grandbangalore/ | email=grandashok@nivalink.com | address=Kumara Krupa High Grounds | lat=12.99225 | long=77.58188 | directions= | phone=+91 80 22 2404 2211 9 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi | alt= | url=http://www.oberoibangalore.com/index.asp?leftinfo=1&leftitem=1 | email= | address=37-39 MG Rd | lat=12.97332 | long=77.618164 | directions= | phone=+91 80 25585858 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402705 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com/banglore_home.htm | email=resv.blr@theparkhotels.com | address=14/7 MG Rd | lat=12.97391 | long=77.61961 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402703 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Bengaluru City Center | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-bengaluru-city-center | email= | address= | lat=12.976319 | long=77.61953 | directions= | phone=+91 80 62210103 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402698 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Taj MG Road | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-mgroad-bengaluru/ | email=reservations.mgroad@tajhotels.com | address=41/3 MG Rd | lat=12.97328 | long=77.61985 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6660-4444 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402704 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj West End | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/ | email=westend.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=Race Course Rd | lat=12.98 | long=77.58 | directions= | phone=+91 80 5660-5660 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64343188 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Nestled amidst 20 acres of flora and defined by its illustrious heritage and colonial charm. Started by the Bronsons as a 10-room inn in 1887, it now has 117 magnificent rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Bengaluru Residency Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9725 | long=77.60857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402710 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} t702tcemllsowvikve73asq46whm16k 5091193 5091192 2025-07-11T05:32:27Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Cubbon Park area */ Updated listing for General Post Office 5091193 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=Central Bangalore}} '''Central Bangalore''' is the heart of the city. It contains the original mud fort, the old neighbourhoods and the British-era cantonment. For a long time, it ''was'' the city, or rather the agglomeration of two cities: Bangalore Pete and Bangalore Cantonment. The older Pete has narrow alleys and dense living, while the newer Cantonment has wide streets and more greenery. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.975|77.598|width=700|height=550|zoom=14|name=Map of Central Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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===By metro=== The '''Purple Line''' {{rint|bangalore|purple}} serves the entire Central Bangalore east-west, from Mahatma Gandhi Road to KSR station. The '''Green Line''' {{rint|bangalore|green}} runs across the district north-south, serving Majestic, Chickpet and KR Market. Majestic is the interchange of Purple and Green lines. ==See== [[File:Tipu Palace bangalore.JPG|thumb|Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.962875 | long=77.575956 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q4855049 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Built in 1537. A small part with massive granite walls, big gates, a dungeon and a small Ganesha temple is still intact. Check out the stone carving high up on the wall to your left after entering the massive wooden door. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Centre | alt=Visvesvaraya Towers | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.982425 | long=77.595785 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130215606 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government office complex, built on the site of the house of Sir M. Visvesvaraya after his death. Initially constructed for the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), it was later bought by the state government to house government offices. The brutalist architecture of this high-rise building at Cubbon Park area stands in sharp contrast to the neoclassical architecture of Vidhana Soudha, Attara Kacheri and the General Post Office. The general public is not allowed into the premises, unless they have an appointment at one of the offices. }} ===Cubbon Park area=== [[File:High_Court_of_Karnataka,_Bangalore_MMK.jpg|thumb|Attara Kacheri]] [[File:Government Museum Bangalore (48186334876).jpg|thumb|Government Museum]] [[File:Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.jpg|thumbnail|Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum]] * {{see | name=Attara Kacheri | alt= | url=http://hck.gov.in/ | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.978056 | long=77.5925 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q104755615 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A two-storey neoclassical red-painted stone and brick building, hosting the High Court of Karnataka. It was previously a secretariat of eighteen departments, built under the reign of king Devaraja Wadiyar II in 1701. The main structure of the building is surrounded on all sides by porticoes and verandahs. The entire building is surfaced with plaster and painted with red ochre. }} * {{see | name=General Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q64212872 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Its first floor contains a philatelic museum. }} * {{see | name=Kingfisher Towers | alt= | url= | email= | address=UB City | lat=12.97283 | long=77.59701 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kingfisher Towers Bangalore.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content=Probably the most famous high-rise residential building in Bangalore, despite not being the tallest in the city. The top of the building is occupied by a mansion, which is one of the few instances of a "building atop a building" in India. }} * {{see | name=Government Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9747 | long=77.5958 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q372869 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Established in 1865, the museum is flanked by the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum and the Venkatappa Art Gallery. It is an archaeological museum with a rare collection of archaeological and geological artefacts, including old jewellery, sculpture, coins and inscriptions. The museum is also home to the Halmidi inscription, the earliest writing in Kannada (450 CE). }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address=22, Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-7:30PM | price=2 free exhibitions, 2 paid exhibitions (₹150 combined) | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This museum presents 4 exhibitions (2 free and 2 paid, ₹150) and contains a café, restaurant and library over 5 stories. It's well worth a visit and takes about 2 hours. }} * {{see | name=Seshadari Iyer Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9746 | long=77.5907 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-14 | content=A distinctive red sandstone building, hosting the State Central Library. }} * {{see | name=Venkatappa Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974236 | long=77.595302 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24950240 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Vidhana Soudha | alt=Karnataka Legislative Assembly | url= | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.979693 | long=77.590658 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q283257 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=This granite building houses the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. It was built during the tenure of K. Hanumanthaiya, Chief Minister of Mysore State (1951–1956). A marvel of neo-Dravidian architecture, and one of the most imposing buildings in India. One of the interesting features of this building are the grand stairs in its front. The steps of the grand stairs are {{m|62}} wide and {{m|21}} deep, giving direct access to the foyer of the first floor leading to an assembly chamber. The architecture comprises of Dravidian richly carved bases and capitals for pillars, deep friezes, kapotha cornices, chaithya arches, heavy pediments domical finials. At the same time, the construction uses modern designs, making use of present-day materials like steel, reinforced concrete, glass, and plastic. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the ground or the building. It can only be viewed from the road and footpath outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Vikasa Soudha | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.978318 | long=77.589297 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65109682 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=Located next to Vidhana Soudha, built in the same classic style. It was inaugurated in 2005. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the premises. It can only be viewed from outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum | alt=VITM | url=https://www.vismuseum.gov.in/ | email=vitmuseum@gmail.com | address= | lat=12.9751 | long=77.5964 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+91 80-22866200 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-5:30PM (closed in Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali) | price= | wikidata=Q3537014 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Contains many fun learning activities and exhibitions that can be enjoyed by adults and children. Most exhibits are based on simple science, but some have industrial applications. For general visitors entry fee is ₹40. Some groups receive discounts (organised school groups, BPL Category when showing valid BPL card, etc). Entry is free for military and police personnel in uniform, the physically challenged, and children below 5 years of age. There is also a 3D show costing an extra ₹25 (for general public). }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Gandhi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kumara Park E | lat=12.988117 | long=77.579826 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60771806 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The museum consists of a gallery with rare photographs of Mahatma Gandhi and letters written by him, a library and an auditorium. It serves as a venue for meetings organised on Gandhian values in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=J's La Quill Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakachitrakalaparishath.com/index.php#gallery | email= | address= | lat=12.989167 | long=77.578367 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6372843 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A visual art complex with 18 galleries, 13 of which carry a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures and folk art. The folk art collection showcases Mysore paintings and leather puppets. }} * {{see | name=Kempegowda Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.974092 | long=77.610754 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM–5PM (closed Su) | price=Free | wikidata=Q6387055 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government museum dedicated to Bangalore's founder Kempe Gowda. It is housed in the Mayo Hall, which was built in memory of Lord Mayo, the 4th Viceroy of India. This two-storey building is known for its ornate furniture and architecture. It is adorned by chandeliers, Greek cornices, Tuscan columns, stone arches, wooden floors and beautiful furnishings. The building itself offers a panoramic view of the city's Parade Grounds and Ulsoor Lake on one side, and the Bangalore Race Course and Brigade Grounds on the south. }} * {{see | name=National Military Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.985521 | long=77.590458 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q18379547 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=A memorial-cum-museum dedicated to the personnel and families of martyrs who have died in the service of the nation. The collection in the museum include mockups of missiles like AKASH, Prithvi and BrahMos and rockets like Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). }} * {{see | name=National Gallery of Modern Art | alt=NGMA | url=http://ngmaindia.gov.in/ngma_bangaluru.asp | email= | address=49, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd | lat=12.989705 | long=77.58815 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa Su 11AM-7:30PM, Tu-F 11AM-6PM | price=₹20 for Indian citizens, ₹500 for foreigners | wikidata=Q17077814 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The National Gallery of Modern Art houses an auditorium, café, shop and exhibitions of modern and contemporary art in a beautiful building. The gallery organises and hosts talks on art and culture by speakers, seminars, film screenings as well as workshops and guided walks throughout the year. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Albert Victor Rd | lat=12.959494 | long=77.573572 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone=+91 80 2670 6836 | tollfree= | hours=daily 9:30AM-5:30PM | price=₹20 for Indians/SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens and ₹250 for foreigners (tickets only available online, you will need a phone with a QR code scanner and mobile data) | wikidata=Q7809034 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Dating to about 1790, it was the summer retreat for Tipu Sultan. The two-storey structure is made mostly out of wood with finely embellished balconies, pillars and arches. It contains a small museum with information on Tipu Sultan. }} ===Natural attractions=== * {{see | name=Lalbagh Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.95 | long=77.59 | directions=metro: {{station|Lalbagh|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q200711 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Built during the reigns of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, the botanical garden is home to numerous wild species of birds and other wildlife. The garden also has a lake adjoining a large rock is home to some water birds. Flower shows are conducted annually during the weeks of Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August) to educate the public about the variety of flora and foster public interest in plant conservation and cultivation. }} ===Places of worship=== [[File:Holy Trinity Church Bangalore Entrance.jpg|thumb|The entrance to the Holy Trinity Church]] ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Holy Trinity Church | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.972118 | long=77.620622 | directions=at Trinity circle at the east end of the MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5886431 | content=A major landmark of Central Bangalore. It was built in 1851, for the British Regiment stationed in Bangalore. Built-in the English Renaissance style, the church can accommodate 700 people and is regarded as the largest military church in southern India. It has a congregation of over 450 families. }} * {{see | name=Hudson Memorial Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hudson Circle | lat=12.967401 | long=77.587911 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24937604 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=Established in 1904 and named after missionary and scholar Rev. Josiah Hudson, who was responsible for opening Kannada schools in Bangalore Pete. The church attracts people of all faiths, especially in Thursdays and Sundays. }} * {{see | name=St. Andrew's Church | alt= | url=http://standrewschurch.org.in | email= | address=Cubbon Rd | lat=12.9792 | long=77.6042 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898472 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A Presbyterian church, consecrated in memory of Mary Elizabeth McGoun, wife of Col. Thomas McGoun of the 6th Madras Native Infantry. It is an example of Gothic architecture in the city, with a steeping roof of Mangalore tiles, a row of decorative ridge-tiles on the top, turreted parapets and gables, iron crested towers, intricately done plaster motifs, railings of cast iron, and pilasters and pavilions rising from the wing. }} * {{see | name=St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.parramattacathedral.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.992679 | long=77.611314 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7588004 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=St. John's Church | alt= | url=http://stjohnschurchbangalore.com/ | email= | address= | lat=12.9918 | long=77.613 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898476 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The fourth oldest Protestant church in the city, with a distinct red edifice and towering steeple, rising out of the leafy surroundings. There's a memorial in front of the church for its members who lost their lives in service of 'King and Empire', in World War I. }} * {{see | name=St. Mark's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.saintmarks.in | email= | address= | lat=12.97606 | long=77.60034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898479 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=The sole cathedral of Bangalore is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist. It is famous for its English Baroque architecture inspired by [[London]]'s St Paul's Cathedral. The entrance has elaborate woodwork with ornate carvings. The bell is the amongst the most well-maintained church bells in India. The stained glasswork adds to the beauty of the cathedral. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Basilica | alt= | url=http://www.stmarysbasilica.in/ | email= | address= | lat=12.984417 | long=77.60425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7590089 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content=The oldest church in Bangalore, and the only church in the state which has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities held during the St. Mary's Feast in the month of September each year, an event that attracts devotees from in and around Bangalore. The basilica is built in Gothic style with arches, ornamental motifs and stained glass windows. Multiple columns and tall spires of the basilica can be seen from quite a distance. The stained glass windows were removed during World War II and were subsequently restored in 1947. }} ====Temples==== * {{see | name=Dharmaraya Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.965444 | long=77.583389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2065042 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=One of the oldest temples of Bangalore and also the smallest, the Temple has existed since the times of Kempe Gowda. It is on S.P. Road close to Corporation Circle, behind the LIC building. This temple is famous for the Annual Karaga Festival held every summer. The Presiding Deity is Dharmaraya (Yudishthira) & Consort Draupadi, making it a unique one of its kind. }} * {{see | name=Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.959524 | long=77.574305 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}}, next to Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6433914 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A fine example of Dravidian architecture, built by Maharaja Chikkadevaraya Wodeyar. }} * {{see | name=Maha Bodhi Society Temple | url= | email= | address=No. 14, Kalidas Road, Gandhi Nagar | lat=12.97817 | long=77.58069 | directions=northwest rim of Freedom Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at [[Bodh Gaya]]. The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English. }} * {{see | name=Someshwara Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Halasuru | lat=12.975556 | long=77.623889 | directions=close to Halasuru Police station; metro: {{station|Halasuru|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q16891973 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples of the city. The inner sanctum sanctorum is said to have been built in the 8th century by the Cholas, who ruled this place, the outer Praharam during the Hoysalas of the 11th century, while the front hall construction and the Gopuram during the Vijayanagar Empire of the 15th century. The structure resembles the various changes the temple has gone through during the period, with major additions and renovations done to preserve the temple. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Bangalore Race Course | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98235 | long=77.58094 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{do | name=Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium | alt= | url=http://www.taralaya.org/ | email=info@taralaya.org | address=Bangalore Association for Science Education, Sri T. Choudaiah Road, High Grounds | lat=12.98486 | long=77.58954 | directions=opposite Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, Near Raj Bhavan | phone=+91 80-22379725 | tollfree= | hours=12:30-4:30PM (closed M and second Th) | price=₹35 for adults and ₹20 for school students and children (up to 16 years), children below 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky-Theatre | wikidata=Q6987903 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A very good planetarium for adults and children alike. Shows are offered in Kannada and English. Each show is about 30 minutes long. There are about 200 seats available for each show. A ticket can be used only for the show mentioned on the ticket, and is non-refundable if you miss that show. }} * {{do | name=Sir Puttanna Chetty Town Hall | alt=Bangalore Town Hall | url= | email= | address=112 JC Road | lat=12.96376 | long=77.58579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4855080 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A neoclassical building. The structure features a flight of steps leading to the entrance porch resting on Tuscan columns with identical columns extending on either sides. The auditorium has two floors with a total capacity of 810 seats. }} * {{do | name=Urvashi Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lalbagh Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Lalbagh Main gate & MTR | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-08 | content=A cool remodified theatre that allows a 1st hand experience in watching movies. One of the oldest theatres and important landmark of the City }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Chitra Santhe (Paintings market) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.99053 | long=77.58234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An annual exhibition, held on the first Sunday of every year in January, the Chitra Santhe on Kumara Krupa Road (near Golf Course) brings together artists from all across Karnataka. Paintings, pottery, and sculpture are all on an exhibition-cum-sale. The road is closed to traffic on that day, making it possible to have a leisurely stroll, admiring and buying the items. Prices range from ₹100-20,000. Bargaining is recommended, but not too hard. Pay a fair price. (Credit cards and foreign currency are rarely accepted, so carry sufficient cash in Indian currency). }} * {{do | name=Flower Show (Biannual) | alt= | url= | email= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 9AM to 5PM | price= ₹50 entry fees | content=A bi-annual affair at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, during the Independence Day (August 15th) & Republic Day (January 26th). Various companies display their floral exhibits in this period, normally held from a week before the above-mentioned days. The main epicentre would be a Rose arrangement representing a theme, or a heritage structure, which attracts major crowd from around Bangalore. }} * {{do | name=Mango Mela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM to 5PM | price=₹30 entry fees | content=An annual affair, at the beginning of summer, the season for the king of fruits. Normally, mangoes (raw & ripe), cultivated in Bangalore Rural and Ramanagara, as well as in neighbouring Kolar and Chikballapur, are brought and kept for show as well as sale during this period, at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. A must-visit for mango fans. }} ===Parks and stadiums=== * {{do | name=Cubbon Park | alt=Sri Chamarajendra Udyanavana | url=http://www.horticulture.kar.nic.in/cubbon.htm | email= | address= | lat=12.975 | long=77.593333 | directions=opposite to Chinnaswamy Stadium, {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3633776 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A nice forested area in the city centre. The entrance from Queen's Statue forms the tourist attraction owing to the presence of the Government Aquarium and Bal Bhavan, a play area for kids. '''Puttaani Express''' a small toy train for kids, runs inside the Bal Bhavan, attracting kids from far and near. For attractions around the park, see the [[#Cubbon Park area|Cubbon Park area]] subsection of See. }} * {{do | name=Freedom Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.977272 | long=77.581844 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5500576 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A park built on the grounds of a prison. It is also used for public protests. }} * {{do | name=M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat=12.978806 | long=77.599556 | directions={{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+90 80 4015 4015 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1861907 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=With a capacity of 40,000, this is the home of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has a large and loud following. The IPL season typically is from March to May every year, matches are played in the evenings and last around 3 hours. Scour the daily newspapers for ticket information - tickets sell out a week before. }} * {{do | name=Sree Kanteerava Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.969556 | long=77.593469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7585638 | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=A multi-purpose stadium with a running track, a volleyball court, and two outdoor rock-climbing walls. }} * {{do | name=Ulsoor Lake | alt=Halasuru lake | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.981472 | long=77.619214 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30587793 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore, with several islands. There's a watch tower with a Chinese bell on the lake. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=SPA.ce | alt= | url=http://www.spacethespa.com | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by an expat Brit. Offers a variety of massages, scrubs, and facials. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française de Bangalore | alt= | url=http://bangalore.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Thimmaiah Rd, Kaverappa Layout | lat=12.991477 | long=77.596851 | directions= | phone=+91 7899562404 | tollfree= | hours=9:30AM&ndash;5:30PM (closed S) | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Offers French language courses. }} ==Buy== * The '''UB City''' and '''Vittal Mallya Road''' are Page-3 shopping areas. You'll find brands like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Kimaya in the UB City. Vittal Mallya Road has stores like '''The Collective''' which is a shop only for men. Armani, Versace, Boss, you name it, they have it. There's even Canary Blue and Esprit on the same road. * {{buy | name=Brigade Road/M.G. Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97520 | long=77.60817 | directions=metro: {{station|MG Road|purple}} right next to the intersection of both roads | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The most popular place for tourists. These two roads are filled with shops of every kind, whether it be traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear (this is especially true for Brigade Road). Brigade Road, where British soldiers used to buy their necessities, is now the centre of yuppie Bangalore; you'll see hordes of college students on the road any time of day or night. Stores on Brigade Road include: Planet M (a huge music store with everything), Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Phillipe, Pepe Jeans, Levis, Lee, SanFrisco Jeans, Nike, and Titan (great Indian made watches). There are also many eateries on Brigade road and on the side roads that lead off it. Fast food outlets include KFC (right at the entrance), Pizza Hut (at the other end of the road), and many cafes including the Indian coffee chain Cafe Coffee Day. Also includes a tattoo studio. M.G. Road is short for Mahatma Gandhi road. }} * {{buy | name=Commercial Street | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98219 | long=77.60824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A legacy of the British is another shopping mecca that sells international brands (similar to Brigade road) alongside locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. In addition, it is famous for its body piercing centres. The price of goods here is very competitive and it is a great place to pick a bargain. }} * {{buy | name=Krishna Rajendra Market | alt=KR Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.96563 | long=77.57636 | directions=metro: {{station|KR Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The city's largest vegetable and fruit market. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Gangarams Book Bureau | alt= | url=http://gangaramsbookbureau.com/ | email=gangaramsinternational@gmail.com | address=#3, Church Street, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-11 | content=Since 1977, a destination for booklovers with books in a diverse range from academic, professional and technical to fiction and non-fiction. }} * {{buy | name=Blossoms | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=parallel to MG Rd and nearby Coconut Grove Restaurant | phone=+91 80 255 9733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are 3 full floors of those rare, hard to find old books. All 2nd hand, good condition and at low rates. }} * {{buy | name=The Bookworm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Church Street, opposite Starbucks | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a small used book store. Good bargains on used and new books are available here. }} * {{buy | name=Crossword | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=ACR Towers, opposite Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558 2411-16 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks, music and movie section, children's section and a coffee shop. A wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop. }} * {{buy | name=Elloor Library | url= | email= | address=Blue Cross Chambers, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=close to Commercial St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Requires membership which includes a deposit. }} * {{buy | name=Gangarams Mg road | url= | email=gangarams@vsnl.com | address=Triumph Tower, 2nd Floor, 48 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite High Gates Hotel and Mainland China; Church Street is parallel to Mahatma Gandhi ("MG") Road | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa | price= | content=A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works. }} * {{buy | name=Goobes Book Republic | url=http://www.goobes.wordpress.com | email=goobesbookrepublic@gmail.com | address=46-1-1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=in the basement of Church Street Inn, Budget Hotel, near MG Rd | phone=+91 80 4112 4956 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Secondhand and new books on a wide variety of subjects and a very cost effective library option and buy back used books. }} * {{buy | name=Higginbothams | alt= | url= | email= | address=68 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7359, +91 80 2558 6574 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This bookstore has a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels. }} * {{buy | name=Premier Book Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address=46/1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone=+91 80 2558 8570 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down. This store however, will shut down shortly. }} * {{buy | name=Sapna Book House | url=http://www.sapnaonline.com/ | email= | address=3rd Main Rd, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Walking distance from Majestic Bus stand | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a large bookstore, they also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery. }} * {{buy | name=Select Bookshop | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd Behind Curzon Court Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books. }} * {{buy | name=The Strand book stall | alt= | url=http://www.strandbookstall.com/ | email= | address=Dickenson Rd | lat= | long= | directions=1st Floor, Manipal Centre | phone=+91 80 2558 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Mahendra Textiles | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4124 9900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sarees and dress materials from Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kerala and Sri Lanka. }} * {{buy | name=Marmalade | alt= | url= | email= | address=Magrath Rd | lat= | long= | directions=adj to Spratt Salon; left before Coffee Day, on Brigade Rd Extn | phone=+91 80 4122 1814 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of affordable young designer wear. }} * {{buy | name=Native Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=behind Museum Rd Post Office, Museum Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of interesting merchandise, crafts made by NGOs, c/o The Only Place Restaurant. }} * {{buy | name=One G | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4123 1231 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(Jewellery) Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Rd. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of [[Mysore]] sandalwood are an especially good buy. }} * {{buy | name=Central Cottage Industries Emporium | alt=CCIE | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], Bangalore and [[Chennai]]. }} * {{buy | name=Chandi - The Divine Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Shop No. 12, First Floor, Public Utility Building | phone=+91 80 4112 3590, +91 80 4112 3610 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialising in Indian divine figures in all mediums. Claims to have the biggest collection of Ganeshas in town. High-quality and locally-priced wares, supposedly no pushy salesmanship. }} * {{buy | name=Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialises in Karnataka handicraft. }} ===Jewellery=== * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons | alt=Diamond Flagship Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=2-1 Main Cross Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Safina Plaza | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content={{convert|14000|ft2}} dedicated to the finest gold and diamond jewellery, spread over two floors. }} * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons-The Heritage Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=35 & 36 Commercial St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Dedicated to gold and silver. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Garuda Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97004 | long=77.60968 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads. }} * {{buy | name=Safina Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97977 | long=77.60696 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The sale capital of Bangalore, on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi). }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Annapoorna | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ulsoor | lat= | long= | directions=near Sai Baba Temple in Ulsoor. Need to get down at Ulsoor police station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pure vegetarian food in Tamil style. }} * {{eat | name=Bheemas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you have the penchant for spice this place is meant for you. }} * {{eat | name=I-Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Park, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Expensive, but arguably the best Italian food in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kudla | alt= | url=http://www.ramanashree.com/ | email= | address=Ramanashree Comforts, Richmond Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For seafood, serves excellent dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Oh! Calcutta | alt= | url= | email= | address=St Mark's Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Part of a chain of restaurants across the country, and the best Bengali food available in the city albeit pricier than the other options. }} * {{eat | name=Pabrai's Fresh and Naturalle Ice Cream | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood Street, Ashok Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6453 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Palms | alt= | url= | email= | address=33 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=at the Highgates Hotel | phone=+91 80 2559 7172 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Coorgi, and Malabari style. (shut for renovations) }} * {{eat | name=Queens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church Street, opposite Amoeba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small restaurant but great food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=RRs | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A renovation of the vintage RRs, the fun doubles here with the double storeyed restaurant, one serving Andhra and the other Hyderabadi cuisines. There's also alcohol, all the more reason to indulge on a Saturday afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Tijouri | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Atria, Palace Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2220 5205 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Delicacy| url= | email= | address=105 Dickenson's road, Manipal Centre| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Majestic | url= | email= | address=(''next to Fkcci Bldg''), KG Rd| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Anupams Coastal Express | url= | email= | address=Shivananda Circle | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They make fantastic fish dishes. Neer Dosa with Chicken Pulimunchi, kori roti and chicken ghee roast are some things you really cannot miss. }} * {{eat | name=Bobby-da-Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Lavanya Theatre, St John's Road, Near Ulsoor | lat=12.98369 | long=77.61391 | directions= | phone=+91 96 6367 8382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-3:45PM, 7:30PM-11PM | price= | content=The food is good (albeit slightly oily). It basically serves paranthas (with lots of butter), chaach, kheer and a number of side dishes (most notable being their shahi paneer and rajma). You may have to wait for a while in case it is full. So it's better to go slightly early, noon for lunch and 7:30PM for dinner to avoid rush). }} * {{eat | name=Coconut Grove | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97526 | long=77.60433 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Appams and Kerala parottas with a chicken sauce dish. Their lunch offer for ₹80 is also really good. A pretty good choice for reasonably priced quality seafood. Coco-Grove the outdoor 'beer cafe' extension is also worth a look. }} * {{eat | name=Fanoos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=adjoining Johnson Market, off Brigade Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the joints for getting sheekh (beef) rolls in Bangalore. They come in various sizes- sheekh roll, sheekh jumbo, sheekh mambo, sheekh rambo and sheekh sambo- the latter of which is almost 2 in thick. There are other options like chicken, mutton and paneer rolls as well as kababs and shawarma. ₹30-100 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Indian Coffee House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97474 | long=77.60533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=KC Das | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97588 | long=77.60179 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Bengali sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Kohinoor | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves very reasonably priced Kerala Muslim style food. }} * {{eat | name=Lake View Milk Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent ice creams, club sandwiches and burgers. }} * {{eat | name=Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) | alt= | url= | email= | address=11 Lal Bagh Rd | lat=12.9551857 | long=77.58556020000003 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2222 0022, +91 80 22221706 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-10-27| content=One of the very old traditional breakfast places in Bangalore. There are a few people who have been having their breakfast at MTR every day for the past 15 years. Closed between 2:45-3:30PM. Expect a long wait on weekends. Traditional 12-course Karnataka lunches are also available here for around ₹90 per head. Advance reservations recommended at weekends. Rava idlis, dosas and bisi bele bath are excellent. It has maintained its quality over the years and is very famous. It is on the road perpendicular to Lal bagh main gate. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Alibaba Cafe & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 7163 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Frazer Town. Arabian, Persian and Bhatkali cuisine described as "An Arabian Lake in the Indian Ocean". A themed restaurant with the feel of Arabia, Persia and India. The "Shaiya Biryani" of the Bhatkali cuisine, the Al faham chicken barbecue out of the Arabian cuisine and the chicken Jujeh kabab from the Persian cuisine are all recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Caesar's Multi Cuisine Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahalakshmi Chambers, 9/2, MG Rd. | lat= | long= | directions=beside HSBC bank opposite ING Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6:30PM–11:30PM | price= | content=Indian and continental food. Classic environment. The ambience is good, though the food is a tad expensive. Parking is a problem. }} * {{eat | name=Canopy | url= | email= | address=PU Building, M.G. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open air, multi-cuisine North-Indian food. Cooking techniques date back to the independence era offering the unique taste. Great outdoor ambiance in the middle of the central business district. ₹125-750 }} * {{eat | name=Ebony | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=on the 13th floor of the tallest building on MG Rd, Utility building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Stylish eatery with excellent evening views of the city. Service is a bit slow, but the ambiance makes it worth the wait. Book ahead for a terrace seat. ₹200-400 }} * {{eat | name=Koshy's | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat=12.97579 | long=77.60147 | directions=Below Church St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Bangalore institution, serving a smattering of Western favorites (like fish and chips) along with the usual South Indian fare in a bohemian-for-India atmosphere. On weekends, they serve up greasy Western-style breakfast, including omelettes and Bombay (i.e, French) Toast. Appam and stew is their Sunday breakfast special and a must eat. Turn right at the entrance for the more expensive (and decidedly less charming) A/C room. ₹50-200. Smoky, with sluggish service, and not particularly clean Koshy's still has plenty of character and history but its getting harder to justify their skyrocketing prices. }} * {{eat | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hot coffee to chilled Kingfisher beer on the tap awesome cocktails and even hand rolled Havana cigars. Salads, sandwiches, jacket baked potatoes to entrees. LRC also offers an Oxy Bar, Bangalore's first. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=Near Museum Rd | phone=+91 80 2227 7722, +91 90 2224 5864 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Upscale Chinese food. Good, fairly authentic food and excellent service. Serves a decent lunch buffet. Also new outlet on 100ft Road, Indiranagar. ₹500-800. }} * {{eat | name=Pinxx | url= | email= | address=Manipal centre | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place for Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. ₹200-400 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Samarkand | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gem Plaza, 66, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=East of Central St | phone=+91 80 4111 3366 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=North West frontier food (i.e., kebabs, Afghani) in a kitschy atmosphere but the food is great. You will need to book on weekends. ₹300-600. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Blue Ginger | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/restaurants/blue-ginger/ | email= | address=Taj West End | lat= | long= | directions=just next door to Blue Bar | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=High-end Vietnamese restaurant with a beautiful setting and excellent food. }} * {{eat | name=Graze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Taj Residency, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has some of the best creative continental you will get in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=I.Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Opposite 1 MG, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has the best Italian food in town }} * {{eat | name=Karavalli | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at the Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558-4545 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine. Best Indian food you will get when visiting BLR. }} * {{eat | name=Monsoon | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Next to Taj Residency | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24 hr cafe with a variety of Continental Dishes, Indian, Southeast Asian and Mediterranean. Ideal location for private parties. }} * {{eat | name=Olive Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A long time favourite that will serve you Italian meats and cheese in a nice setting, this is still among Bangalore's best. }} * {{eat | name=The Raj Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=ITC Windsor Manor, Golf Course Rd. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24/7 restaurant that offers the taste of the British Raj. Anglo-Lucknowi, Far East and Continental cuisine is served. Amongst the best in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=Sunny's | alt= | url= | email= | address=34 Vittal Mallya Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at Embassy Diamante | phone=+91 80 5132-9366, +91 80 5132-9391 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=About ₹1,200 for a 3-course meal for two, excluding drinks | content=Among the best restaurants in Bangalore. Try the starters, salads and pasta is fine here. Hot sandwiches for lunch. Also has a branch at Indira Nagar. }} * {{drink | name=Vaayu | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th floor, Eve Mall, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has comfortable lounge seating, and is open air, giving some nice views over the city. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Café Coffee Day | alt= | url=http://www.cafecoffeeday.com | email= | address= | lat=12.97130 | long=77.60712 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4001 2345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popularly known as CCD. Established in 1996, at Brigade Road, Bangalore, the chain has over 1,000 cafes throughout India. It is found all over Bangalore. }} * {{drink | name=Coffee Workers Co-op | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St's Brigade Gardens | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable Bangalore institution, with waiters in traditional uniforms and customers slowly savoring the age-old tradition of coffee drinking - though there are just two choices of coffee: black or white. Have some delightful "masala dosa" here. }} * {{drink | name=Java City | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pleasant old Bangalore atmosphere. Offers a wide variety of tea, coffee from all over the world including pizza, pasta, pastries, cookies, you name it they have it plus you get to see a unique sense of humor in their menu and on the walls. On Saturday and Sunday evenings, there is live music, rock and guitar. This place is simple, expatriate friendly and not at all pricy. There is another Java City near Lavelle Road. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Bull n Bush | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500 cover charge | content=Plays hip hop, house and occasionally trance. }} * {{drink | name=The Bunker | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Carpe Diem | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's a Power Metal haven. }} * {{drink | name=Ego's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Castle Street, off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10AM-11:30PM | price= | content=The latest watering hole in Bangalore. Rock music across the board screened on large plasma panels; every song can not only be heard but seen as well. Coffee, Kingfisher beer, cocktails, food and Bangalore's first oxy bar. }} * {{drink | name=New Night Watchman | alt= | url= | email= | address=Corner of Church Street and Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Little bit dingy but helpful bar staff - satellite TV has the Australia Network so you can watch Rugby Union and AFL games. }} * {{drink | name=Pecos | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/PECOS.Pubs | email= | address=Rest House Rd (''Off Brigade Road'') | lat=12.97373 | long=77.60717 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4090 5462, +91 944 982 7428 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=60s retro pub with a mural of Jerry Garcia. Often crowded on all 3 floors, including the pleasant roof-top seating area. Free popcorn with every pitcher of beer. Cards are available for frequent customers which make every tenth pitcher of beer free, but you may have to ask several times in order to acquire one and to get it updated. }} * {{drink | name=Sparks | alt= | url= | email= | address=Brigade Road Extension, next to Brigade Towers | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Styx | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=next to Cauvery Handicrafts on MG Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They put the "Heavy" in heavy metal! }} * {{drink | name=Sultanate of Swing | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free entry | content=Mainly plays Rock, Retro, Heavy Metal and has a Video DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Tavern at The Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Windsor Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vasanth Nagar (''off Mount Carmel's in Kodava Samaja Building'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small place which serves only beer, good food and is nice for a family outing. But only limited tables. }} * {{drink | name=Zeus | url= | email= | address=#174 2nd Floor Manohar Crest, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=above Health n Glow | phone=+91 80 2532 3355 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11:30PM | price= | content=Sports bar and lounge. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=13th Floor | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barton Centre, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Make a reservation. amazing view from the 13th floor }} * {{drink | name=Arbor Brewing Company | alt=ABC | url=https://www.arborbrewing.in/ | email=info@arborbrewing.in | address=8 Magrath Rd, Allied Grande Plaza, Ashok Nagar | lat=12.97027 | long=77.61089 | directions=Opp. Garuda Mall, Magrath Rd | phone=+91 80501 44477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon to 12:30AM | price= | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=Microbrewery that serves Belgian Triple, Smooth Criminal and Brassiere Blonde. Some of the smoothest beers in town and serves pub-style food. Has a nice vibe though it gets crowded during the weekend. }} * {{drink | name=Aura | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Biere Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vittal Mallya Rd on Lavelle Road, (''opp Sunny's''). | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bangalore’s first craft brewery and a popular place for beer lovers. }} * {{drink | name=Blue Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=West End, Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=On weekends you need to buy drink-tickets for ₹1,500 to enter. | content=Excellent drinks if you make sure Joel makes them. Officially they have a couple's only policy. Spontaneous dancing likely next to the bar. }} * {{drink | name=Hint | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th Floor, Bangalore Central, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Tuesdays is ladies night (couples permitted). }} * {{drink | name=iBar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Kosmo (Formerly Cosmo Village) | alt= | url= | email= | address=81 Ali Askar Road Cross (''Off Cunningham Road'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=3 separate areas including a terrace. This nightclub is a remodeled colonial villa on a quiet lane, with excellent DJs and expensive drinks, and attracts a wealthy clientele. }} * {{drink | name=Taika | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St. (''Off Brigade Rd'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Usually open past midnight and has a huge dance floor. 3 bars and a lounge area. Entrance varies each night. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Citizen Lodge | url= | email= | address=Lady Curzon Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Bowring Hospital, about {{km|1}} from MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double non-A/C room costs around from ₹850 | content=Bare bones motel-style establishment is well located but leaves much to be desired in terms of cleanliness and overall quality. }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel 29th Church's Inn | alt = formerly Church Street Inn | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-bangalore/fabhotel-29th-church-inn-mg-road.html | email= | address=#29th Church Street, off M.G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 70424 24242 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Manju Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22200679 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Naga Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41220539 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Omshakthi palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 26707927 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Retirement Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Central Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-05-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Mount Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakkal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41580000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Royal Regency Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.royalregencylodge.com | email= | address=S. C. Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Movieland theater | phone=+91 80 4113 0202 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹1500? | content=Clean rooms and convenient to the city’s local transports like the City bus station and the City Railway Station. }} * {{sleep | name=T.A.P. Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road Avenue Road; cross near Abhinay Theatre & Menaka Theatre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22280522 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=U. G. Classic | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=UG Deluxe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Majestic, Thulsi Thotta | lat= | long= | directions=stop near the small road opposite Upparpet Police station and next to Navaruchi restaurant, then take right and then immediate left on a small lane and at the end of it take right and you will see the lodge on your right | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=A/C rooms - ₹750, Non-A/C rooms - ₹550 | content=You may want to take an auto instead of walking down if you are going after a rainy day as your shoes will get dirty. }} * {{sleep | name=Vardhaman Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ganesh Lodge Building OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026707552 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹320 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=YMCA | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nrupathunga Rd | lat=12.97109 | long=77.58765 | directions=Near Cubbon Park | phone=+91 80 2221 1848 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=No-frills hotel. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Ajantha | alt= | url=http://hotelajantha.in/ | email=reservation@hotelajantha.in | address=22 Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 4321 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Sgl/dbl from ₹1500/₹1900, Cottage A/C ₹2700 | content=Good simple hotel with a vegetarian restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western The Capitol | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raj Bhavan Rd | lat=12.98246 | long=77.59450 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2228 1234, +91 80 2228 1800 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Fortune Park JP Celestial | url=http://www.fortunehotels.in/hotel/Bengaluru-Fortune_Park_JP_Celestial.aspx | email= | address=Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4044-1234 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bangalore Gate | alt=res@bangaloregate.com | url=http://www.hotelbangaloregate.com/ | email=book@hotelbangaloregate.com | address=9 and 12, Gajanana Towers, K G Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 99 4533 3999 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout= noon | price=₹3,600-4,800 | content=Executive, superior and premium rooms. All rooms are A/C with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. 24-hour room service, 2 restaurants, ample car parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komfort Terraces | alt= | url=http://komfortgrouphotels.com/ | email= | address=No 301, 3rd floor, Bluemoon Complex M G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4009 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout=noon | price=₹2381 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel St. Marks | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vrindavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=off MG Rd and very near to MG. Rd/Brigade Rd junction | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Nice hotel with great South Indian food. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Woodlands | alt= | url= | email= | address=No 5, Rajaram Mohan Roy Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Richmond Circle | phone=+91 80 2222 5111 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Very clean hotel, great views of the city, delicious free South Indian breakfast buffet for ₹3,400 per night for an A/C double (two single beds pushed together). Nice location for exploring the city. Long walk to M.G. Road, Garuda Mall, and Commercial Street. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Heritage Block, the Taj West End, Bangalore.jpg|thumb|Taj West End]] * {{sleep | name=Chancery Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96582 | long=77.59868 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=About $200 | content=Nice business hotel, good service and food }} * {{sleep | name=The Gateway Hotel, Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/gateway/residency-road-bangalore/ | email=gateway.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=66, Residency Road | lat=12.976750 | long=77.575280 | directions= | phone=+91 8066604545 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-21 | content=The Gateway Hotel Bengaluru is among the top hotels in the city and has won the National Tourism Award for three years in a row. }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Gardenia | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcgardenia-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96697 | long=77.59556 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2211 9898 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402720 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Windsor | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcwindsor-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=25, Golf Course Rd | lat=12.99414 | long=77.58597 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2226 9898 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹17,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru | alt= | url= | email= | address=24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd | lat=12.97245 | long=77.59479 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6718-9999 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹15,340-27,140 | wikidata=Q111402713 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lalit Ashok Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.nivalink.com/grandbangalore/ | email=grandashok@nivalink.com | address=Kumara Krupa High Grounds | lat=12.99225 | long=77.58188 | directions= | phone=+91 80 22 2404 2211 9 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi | alt= | url=http://www.oberoibangalore.com/index.asp?leftinfo=1&leftitem=1 | email= | address=37-39 MG Rd | lat=12.97332 | long=77.618164 | directions= | phone=+91 80 25585858 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402705 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com/banglore_home.htm | email=resv.blr@theparkhotels.com | address=14/7 MG Rd | lat=12.97391 | long=77.61961 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402703 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Bengaluru City Center | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-bengaluru-city-center | email= | address= | lat=12.976319 | long=77.61953 | directions= | phone=+91 80 62210103 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402698 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Taj MG Road | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-mgroad-bengaluru/ | email=reservations.mgroad@tajhotels.com | address=41/3 MG Rd | lat=12.97328 | long=77.61985 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6660-4444 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402704 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj West End | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/ | email=westend.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=Race Course Rd | lat=12.98 | long=77.58 | directions= | phone=+91 80 5660-5660 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64343188 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Nestled amidst 20 acres of flora and defined by its illustrious heritage and colonial charm. Started by the Bronsons as a 10-room inn in 1887, it now has 117 magnificent rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Bengaluru Residency Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9725 | long=77.60857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402710 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} 4jnedj9o2qk6mgfbrczkz23upq7p082 5091194 5091193 2025-07-11T05:33:02Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Cubbon Park area */ Updated listing for General Post Office 5091194 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=Central Bangalore}} '''Central Bangalore''' is the heart of the city. It contains the original mud fort, the old neighbourhoods and the British-era cantonment. For a long time, it ''was'' the city, or rather the agglomeration of two cities: Bangalore Pete and Bangalore Cantonment. The older Pete has narrow alleys and dense living, while the newer Cantonment has wide streets and more greenery. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.975|77.598|width=700|height=550|zoom=14|name=Map of Central Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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===By metro=== The '''Purple Line''' {{rint|bangalore|purple}} serves the entire Central Bangalore east-west, from Mahatma Gandhi Road to KSR station. The '''Green Line''' {{rint|bangalore|green}} runs across the district north-south, serving Majestic, Chickpet and KR Market. Majestic is the interchange of Purple and Green lines. ==See== [[File:Tipu Palace bangalore.JPG|thumb|Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.962875 | long=77.575956 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q4855049 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Built in 1537. A small part with massive granite walls, big gates, a dungeon and a small Ganesha temple is still intact. Check out the stone carving high up on the wall to your left after entering the massive wooden door. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Centre | alt=Visvesvaraya Towers | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.982425 | long=77.595785 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130215606 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government office complex, built on the site of the house of Sir M. Visvesvaraya after his death. Initially constructed for the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), it was later bought by the state government to house government offices. The brutalist architecture of this high-rise building at Cubbon Park area stands in sharp contrast to the neoclassical architecture of Vidhana Soudha, Attara Kacheri and the General Post Office. The general public is not allowed into the premises, unless they have an appointment at one of the offices. }} ===Cubbon Park area=== [[File:High_Court_of_Karnataka,_Bangalore_MMK.jpg|thumb|Attara Kacheri]] [[File:Government Museum Bangalore (48186334876).jpg|thumb|Government Museum]] [[File:Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.jpg|thumbnail|Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum]] * {{see | name=Attara Kacheri | alt= | url=http://hck.gov.in/ | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.978056 | long=77.5925 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q104755615 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A two-storey neoclassical red-painted stone and brick building, hosting the High Court of Karnataka. It was previously a secretariat of eighteen departments, built under the reign of king Devaraja Wadiyar II in 1701. The main structure of the building is surrounded on all sides by porticoes and verandahs. The entire building is surfaced with plaster and painted with red ochre. }} * {{see | name=General Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9813 | long=77.595 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q64212872 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Its first floor contains a philatelic museum. }} * {{see | name=Kingfisher Towers | alt= | url= | email= | address=UB City | lat=12.97283 | long=77.59701 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kingfisher Towers Bangalore.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content=Probably the most famous high-rise residential building in Bangalore, despite not being the tallest in the city. The top of the building is occupied by a mansion, which is one of the few instances of a "building atop a building" in India. }} * {{see | name=Government Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9747 | long=77.5958 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q372869 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Established in 1865, the museum is flanked by the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum and the Venkatappa Art Gallery. It is an archaeological museum with a rare collection of archaeological and geological artefacts, including old jewellery, sculpture, coins and inscriptions. The museum is also home to the Halmidi inscription, the earliest writing in Kannada (450 CE). }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address=22, Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-7:30PM | price=2 free exhibitions, 2 paid exhibitions (₹150 combined) | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This museum presents 4 exhibitions (2 free and 2 paid, ₹150) and contains a café, restaurant and library over 5 stories. It's well worth a visit and takes about 2 hours. }} * {{see | name=Seshadari Iyer Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9746 | long=77.5907 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-14 | content=A distinctive red sandstone building, hosting the State Central Library. }} * {{see | name=Venkatappa Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974236 | long=77.595302 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24950240 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Vidhana Soudha | alt=Karnataka Legislative Assembly | url= | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.979693 | long=77.590658 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q283257 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=This granite building houses the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. It was built during the tenure of K. Hanumanthaiya, Chief Minister of Mysore State (1951–1956). A marvel of neo-Dravidian architecture, and one of the most imposing buildings in India. One of the interesting features of this building are the grand stairs in its front. The steps of the grand stairs are {{m|62}} wide and {{m|21}} deep, giving direct access to the foyer of the first floor leading to an assembly chamber. The architecture comprises of Dravidian richly carved bases and capitals for pillars, deep friezes, kapotha cornices, chaithya arches, heavy pediments domical finials. At the same time, the construction uses modern designs, making use of present-day materials like steel, reinforced concrete, glass, and plastic. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the ground or the building. It can only be viewed from the road and footpath outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Vikasa Soudha | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.978318 | long=77.589297 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65109682 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=Located next to Vidhana Soudha, built in the same classic style. It was inaugurated in 2005. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the premises. It can only be viewed from outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum | alt=VITM | url=https://www.vismuseum.gov.in/ | email=vitmuseum@gmail.com | address= | lat=12.9751 | long=77.5964 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+91 80-22866200 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-5:30PM (closed in Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali) | price= | wikidata=Q3537014 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Contains many fun learning activities and exhibitions that can be enjoyed by adults and children. Most exhibits are based on simple science, but some have industrial applications. For general visitors entry fee is ₹40. Some groups receive discounts (organised school groups, BPL Category when showing valid BPL card, etc). Entry is free for military and police personnel in uniform, the physically challenged, and children below 5 years of age. There is also a 3D show costing an extra ₹25 (for general public). }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Gandhi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kumara Park E | lat=12.988117 | long=77.579826 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60771806 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The museum consists of a gallery with rare photographs of Mahatma Gandhi and letters written by him, a library and an auditorium. It serves as a venue for meetings organised on Gandhian values in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=J's La Quill Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakachitrakalaparishath.com/index.php#gallery | email= | address= | lat=12.989167 | long=77.578367 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6372843 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A visual art complex with 18 galleries, 13 of which carry a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures and folk art. The folk art collection showcases Mysore paintings and leather puppets. }} * {{see | name=Kempegowda Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.974092 | long=77.610754 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM–5PM (closed Su) | price=Free | wikidata=Q6387055 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government museum dedicated to Bangalore's founder Kempe Gowda. It is housed in the Mayo Hall, which was built in memory of Lord Mayo, the 4th Viceroy of India. This two-storey building is known for its ornate furniture and architecture. It is adorned by chandeliers, Greek cornices, Tuscan columns, stone arches, wooden floors and beautiful furnishings. The building itself offers a panoramic view of the city's Parade Grounds and Ulsoor Lake on one side, and the Bangalore Race Course and Brigade Grounds on the south. }} * {{see | name=National Military Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.985521 | long=77.590458 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q18379547 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=A memorial-cum-museum dedicated to the personnel and families of martyrs who have died in the service of the nation. The collection in the museum include mockups of missiles like AKASH, Prithvi and BrahMos and rockets like Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). }} * {{see | name=National Gallery of Modern Art | alt=NGMA | url=http://ngmaindia.gov.in/ngma_bangaluru.asp | email= | address=49, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd | lat=12.989705 | long=77.58815 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa Su 11AM-7:30PM, Tu-F 11AM-6PM | price=₹20 for Indian citizens, ₹500 for foreigners | wikidata=Q17077814 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The National Gallery of Modern Art houses an auditorium, café, shop and exhibitions of modern and contemporary art in a beautiful building. The gallery organises and hosts talks on art and culture by speakers, seminars, film screenings as well as workshops and guided walks throughout the year. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Albert Victor Rd | lat=12.959494 | long=77.573572 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone=+91 80 2670 6836 | tollfree= | hours=daily 9:30AM-5:30PM | price=₹20 for Indians/SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens and ₹250 for foreigners (tickets only available online, you will need a phone with a QR code scanner and mobile data) | wikidata=Q7809034 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Dating to about 1790, it was the summer retreat for Tipu Sultan. The two-storey structure is made mostly out of wood with finely embellished balconies, pillars and arches. It contains a small museum with information on Tipu Sultan. }} ===Natural attractions=== * {{see | name=Lalbagh Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.95 | long=77.59 | directions=metro: {{station|Lalbagh|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q200711 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Built during the reigns of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, the botanical garden is home to numerous wild species of birds and other wildlife. The garden also has a lake adjoining a large rock is home to some water birds. Flower shows are conducted annually during the weeks of Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August) to educate the public about the variety of flora and foster public interest in plant conservation and cultivation. }} ===Places of worship=== [[File:Holy Trinity Church Bangalore Entrance.jpg|thumb|The entrance to the Holy Trinity Church]] ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Holy Trinity Church | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.972118 | long=77.620622 | directions=at Trinity circle at the east end of the MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5886431 | content=A major landmark of Central Bangalore. It was built in 1851, for the British Regiment stationed in Bangalore. Built-in the English Renaissance style, the church can accommodate 700 people and is regarded as the largest military church in southern India. It has a congregation of over 450 families. }} * {{see | name=Hudson Memorial Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hudson Circle | lat=12.967401 | long=77.587911 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24937604 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=Established in 1904 and named after missionary and scholar Rev. Josiah Hudson, who was responsible for opening Kannada schools in Bangalore Pete. The church attracts people of all faiths, especially in Thursdays and Sundays. }} * {{see | name=St. Andrew's Church | alt= | url=http://standrewschurch.org.in | email= | address=Cubbon Rd | lat=12.9792 | long=77.6042 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898472 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A Presbyterian church, consecrated in memory of Mary Elizabeth McGoun, wife of Col. Thomas McGoun of the 6th Madras Native Infantry. It is an example of Gothic architecture in the city, with a steeping roof of Mangalore tiles, a row of decorative ridge-tiles on the top, turreted parapets and gables, iron crested towers, intricately done plaster motifs, railings of cast iron, and pilasters and pavilions rising from the wing. }} * {{see | name=St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.parramattacathedral.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.992679 | long=77.611314 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7588004 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=St. John's Church | alt= | url=http://stjohnschurchbangalore.com/ | email= | address= | lat=12.9918 | long=77.613 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898476 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The fourth oldest Protestant church in the city, with a distinct red edifice and towering steeple, rising out of the leafy surroundings. There's a memorial in front of the church for its members who lost their lives in service of 'King and Empire', in World War I. }} * {{see | name=St. Mark's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.saintmarks.in | email= | address= | lat=12.97606 | long=77.60034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898479 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=The sole cathedral of Bangalore is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist. It is famous for its English Baroque architecture inspired by [[London]]'s St Paul's Cathedral. The entrance has elaborate woodwork with ornate carvings. The bell is the amongst the most well-maintained church bells in India. The stained glasswork adds to the beauty of the cathedral. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Basilica | alt= | url=http://www.stmarysbasilica.in/ | email= | address= | lat=12.984417 | long=77.60425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7590089 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content=The oldest church in Bangalore, and the only church in the state which has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities held during the St. Mary's Feast in the month of September each year, an event that attracts devotees from in and around Bangalore. The basilica is built in Gothic style with arches, ornamental motifs and stained glass windows. Multiple columns and tall spires of the basilica can be seen from quite a distance. The stained glass windows were removed during World War II and were subsequently restored in 1947. }} ====Temples==== * {{see | name=Dharmaraya Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.965444 | long=77.583389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2065042 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=One of the oldest temples of Bangalore and also the smallest, the Temple has existed since the times of Kempe Gowda. It is on S.P. Road close to Corporation Circle, behind the LIC building. This temple is famous for the Annual Karaga Festival held every summer. The Presiding Deity is Dharmaraya (Yudishthira) & Consort Draupadi, making it a unique one of its kind. }} * {{see | name=Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.959524 | long=77.574305 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}}, next to Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6433914 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A fine example of Dravidian architecture, built by Maharaja Chikkadevaraya Wodeyar. }} * {{see | name=Maha Bodhi Society Temple | url= | email= | address=No. 14, Kalidas Road, Gandhi Nagar | lat=12.97817 | long=77.58069 | directions=northwest rim of Freedom Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at [[Bodh Gaya]]. The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English. }} * {{see | name=Someshwara Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Halasuru | lat=12.975556 | long=77.623889 | directions=close to Halasuru Police station; metro: {{station|Halasuru|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q16891973 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples of the city. The inner sanctum sanctorum is said to have been built in the 8th century by the Cholas, who ruled this place, the outer Praharam during the Hoysalas of the 11th century, while the front hall construction and the Gopuram during the Vijayanagar Empire of the 15th century. The structure resembles the various changes the temple has gone through during the period, with major additions and renovations done to preserve the temple. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Bangalore Race Course | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98235 | long=77.58094 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{do | name=Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium | alt= | url=http://www.taralaya.org/ | email=info@taralaya.org | address=Bangalore Association for Science Education, Sri T. Choudaiah Road, High Grounds | lat=12.98486 | long=77.58954 | directions=opposite Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, Near Raj Bhavan | phone=+91 80-22379725 | tollfree= | hours=12:30-4:30PM (closed M and second Th) | price=₹35 for adults and ₹20 for school students and children (up to 16 years), children below 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky-Theatre | wikidata=Q6987903 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A very good planetarium for adults and children alike. Shows are offered in Kannada and English. Each show is about 30 minutes long. There are about 200 seats available for each show. A ticket can be used only for the show mentioned on the ticket, and is non-refundable if you miss that show. }} * {{do | name=Sir Puttanna Chetty Town Hall | alt=Bangalore Town Hall | url= | email= | address=112 JC Road | lat=12.96376 | long=77.58579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4855080 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A neoclassical building. The structure features a flight of steps leading to the entrance porch resting on Tuscan columns with identical columns extending on either sides. The auditorium has two floors with a total capacity of 810 seats. }} * {{do | name=Urvashi Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lalbagh Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Lalbagh Main gate & MTR | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-08 | content=A cool remodified theatre that allows a 1st hand experience in watching movies. One of the oldest theatres and important landmark of the City }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Chitra Santhe (Paintings market) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.99053 | long=77.58234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An annual exhibition, held on the first Sunday of every year in January, the Chitra Santhe on Kumara Krupa Road (near Golf Course) brings together artists from all across Karnataka. Paintings, pottery, and sculpture are all on an exhibition-cum-sale. The road is closed to traffic on that day, making it possible to have a leisurely stroll, admiring and buying the items. Prices range from ₹100-20,000. Bargaining is recommended, but not too hard. Pay a fair price. (Credit cards and foreign currency are rarely accepted, so carry sufficient cash in Indian currency). }} * {{do | name=Flower Show (Biannual) | alt= | url= | email= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 9AM to 5PM | price= ₹50 entry fees | content=A bi-annual affair at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, during the Independence Day (August 15th) & Republic Day (January 26th). Various companies display their floral exhibits in this period, normally held from a week before the above-mentioned days. The main epicentre would be a Rose arrangement representing a theme, or a heritage structure, which attracts major crowd from around Bangalore. }} * {{do | name=Mango Mela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM to 5PM | price=₹30 entry fees | content=An annual affair, at the beginning of summer, the season for the king of fruits. Normally, mangoes (raw & ripe), cultivated in Bangalore Rural and Ramanagara, as well as in neighbouring Kolar and Chikballapur, are brought and kept for show as well as sale during this period, at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. A must-visit for mango fans. }} ===Parks and stadiums=== * {{do | name=Cubbon Park | alt=Sri Chamarajendra Udyanavana | url=http://www.horticulture.kar.nic.in/cubbon.htm | email= | address= | lat=12.975 | long=77.593333 | directions=opposite to Chinnaswamy Stadium, {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3633776 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A nice forested area in the city centre. The entrance from Queen's Statue forms the tourist attraction owing to the presence of the Government Aquarium and Bal Bhavan, a play area for kids. '''Puttaani Express''' a small toy train for kids, runs inside the Bal Bhavan, attracting kids from far and near. For attractions around the park, see the [[#Cubbon Park area|Cubbon Park area]] subsection of See. }} * {{do | name=Freedom Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.977272 | long=77.581844 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5500576 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A park built on the grounds of a prison. It is also used for public protests. }} * {{do | name=M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat=12.978806 | long=77.599556 | directions={{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+90 80 4015 4015 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1861907 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=With a capacity of 40,000, this is the home of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has a large and loud following. The IPL season typically is from March to May every year, matches are played in the evenings and last around 3 hours. Scour the daily newspapers for ticket information - tickets sell out a week before. }} * {{do | name=Sree Kanteerava Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.969556 | long=77.593469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7585638 | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=A multi-purpose stadium with a running track, a volleyball court, and two outdoor rock-climbing walls. }} * {{do | name=Ulsoor Lake | alt=Halasuru lake | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.981472 | long=77.619214 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30587793 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore, with several islands. There's a watch tower with a Chinese bell on the lake. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=SPA.ce | alt= | url=http://www.spacethespa.com | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by an expat Brit. Offers a variety of massages, scrubs, and facials. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française de Bangalore | alt= | url=http://bangalore.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Thimmaiah Rd, Kaverappa Layout | lat=12.991477 | long=77.596851 | directions= | phone=+91 7899562404 | tollfree= | hours=9:30AM&ndash;5:30PM (closed S) | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Offers French language courses. }} ==Buy== * The '''UB City''' and '''Vittal Mallya Road''' are Page-3 shopping areas. You'll find brands like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Kimaya in the UB City. Vittal Mallya Road has stores like '''The Collective''' which is a shop only for men. Armani, Versace, Boss, you name it, they have it. There's even Canary Blue and Esprit on the same road. * {{buy | name=Brigade Road/M.G. Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97520 | long=77.60817 | directions=metro: {{station|MG Road|purple}} right next to the intersection of both roads | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The most popular place for tourists. These two roads are filled with shops of every kind, whether it be traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear (this is especially true for Brigade Road). Brigade Road, where British soldiers used to buy their necessities, is now the centre of yuppie Bangalore; you'll see hordes of college students on the road any time of day or night. Stores on Brigade Road include: Planet M (a huge music store with everything), Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Phillipe, Pepe Jeans, Levis, Lee, SanFrisco Jeans, Nike, and Titan (great Indian made watches). There are also many eateries on Brigade road and on the side roads that lead off it. Fast food outlets include KFC (right at the entrance), Pizza Hut (at the other end of the road), and many cafes including the Indian coffee chain Cafe Coffee Day. Also includes a tattoo studio. M.G. Road is short for Mahatma Gandhi road. }} * {{buy | name=Commercial Street | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98219 | long=77.60824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A legacy of the British is another shopping mecca that sells international brands (similar to Brigade road) alongside locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. In addition, it is famous for its body piercing centres. The price of goods here is very competitive and it is a great place to pick a bargain. }} * {{buy | name=Krishna Rajendra Market | alt=KR Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.96563 | long=77.57636 | directions=metro: {{station|KR Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The city's largest vegetable and fruit market. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Gangarams Book Bureau | alt= | url=http://gangaramsbookbureau.com/ | email=gangaramsinternational@gmail.com | address=#3, Church Street, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-11 | content=Since 1977, a destination for booklovers with books in a diverse range from academic, professional and technical to fiction and non-fiction. }} * {{buy | name=Blossoms | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=parallel to MG Rd and nearby Coconut Grove Restaurant | phone=+91 80 255 9733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are 3 full floors of those rare, hard to find old books. All 2nd hand, good condition and at low rates. }} * {{buy | name=The Bookworm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Church Street, opposite Starbucks | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a small used book store. Good bargains on used and new books are available here. }} * {{buy | name=Crossword | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=ACR Towers, opposite Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558 2411-16 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks, music and movie section, children's section and a coffee shop. A wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop. }} * {{buy | name=Elloor Library | url= | email= | address=Blue Cross Chambers, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=close to Commercial St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Requires membership which includes a deposit. }} * {{buy | name=Gangarams Mg road | url= | email=gangarams@vsnl.com | address=Triumph Tower, 2nd Floor, 48 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite High Gates Hotel and Mainland China; Church Street is parallel to Mahatma Gandhi ("MG") Road | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa | price= | content=A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works. }} * {{buy | name=Goobes Book Republic | url=http://www.goobes.wordpress.com | email=goobesbookrepublic@gmail.com | address=46-1-1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=in the basement of Church Street Inn, Budget Hotel, near MG Rd | phone=+91 80 4112 4956 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Secondhand and new books on a wide variety of subjects and a very cost effective library option and buy back used books. }} * {{buy | name=Higginbothams | alt= | url= | email= | address=68 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7359, +91 80 2558 6574 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This bookstore has a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels. }} * {{buy | name=Premier Book Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address=46/1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone=+91 80 2558 8570 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down. This store however, will shut down shortly. }} * {{buy | name=Sapna Book House | url=http://www.sapnaonline.com/ | email= | address=3rd Main Rd, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Walking distance from Majestic Bus stand | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a large bookstore, they also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery. }} * {{buy | name=Select Bookshop | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd Behind Curzon Court Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books. }} * {{buy | name=The Strand book stall | alt= | url=http://www.strandbookstall.com/ | email= | address=Dickenson Rd | lat= | long= | directions=1st Floor, Manipal Centre | phone=+91 80 2558 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Mahendra Textiles | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4124 9900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sarees and dress materials from Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kerala and Sri Lanka. }} * {{buy | name=Marmalade | alt= | url= | email= | address=Magrath Rd | lat= | long= | directions=adj to Spratt Salon; left before Coffee Day, on Brigade Rd Extn | phone=+91 80 4122 1814 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of affordable young designer wear. }} * {{buy | name=Native Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=behind Museum Rd Post Office, Museum Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of interesting merchandise, crafts made by NGOs, c/o The Only Place Restaurant. }} * {{buy | name=One G | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4123 1231 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(Jewellery) Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Rd. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of [[Mysore]] sandalwood are an especially good buy. }} * {{buy | name=Central Cottage Industries Emporium | alt=CCIE | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], Bangalore and [[Chennai]]. }} * {{buy | name=Chandi - The Divine Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Shop No. 12, First Floor, Public Utility Building | phone=+91 80 4112 3590, +91 80 4112 3610 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialising in Indian divine figures in all mediums. Claims to have the biggest collection of Ganeshas in town. High-quality and locally-priced wares, supposedly no pushy salesmanship. }} * {{buy | name=Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialises in Karnataka handicraft. }} ===Jewellery=== * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons | alt=Diamond Flagship Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=2-1 Main Cross Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Safina Plaza | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content={{convert|14000|ft2}} dedicated to the finest gold and diamond jewellery, spread over two floors. }} * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons-The Heritage Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=35 & 36 Commercial St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Dedicated to gold and silver. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Garuda Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97004 | long=77.60968 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads. }} * {{buy | name=Safina Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97977 | long=77.60696 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The sale capital of Bangalore, on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi). }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Annapoorna | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ulsoor | lat= | long= | directions=near Sai Baba Temple in Ulsoor. Need to get down at Ulsoor police station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pure vegetarian food in Tamil style. }} * {{eat | name=Bheemas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you have the penchant for spice this place is meant for you. }} * {{eat | name=I-Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Park, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Expensive, but arguably the best Italian food in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kudla | alt= | url=http://www.ramanashree.com/ | email= | address=Ramanashree Comforts, Richmond Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For seafood, serves excellent dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Oh! Calcutta | alt= | url= | email= | address=St Mark's Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Part of a chain of restaurants across the country, and the best Bengali food available in the city albeit pricier than the other options. }} * {{eat | name=Pabrai's Fresh and Naturalle Ice Cream | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood Street, Ashok Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6453 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Palms | alt= | url= | email= | address=33 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=at the Highgates Hotel | phone=+91 80 2559 7172 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Coorgi, and Malabari style. (shut for renovations) }} * {{eat | name=Queens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church Street, opposite Amoeba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small restaurant but great food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=RRs | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A renovation of the vintage RRs, the fun doubles here with the double storeyed restaurant, one serving Andhra and the other Hyderabadi cuisines. There's also alcohol, all the more reason to indulge on a Saturday afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Tijouri | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Atria, Palace Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2220 5205 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Delicacy| url= | email= | address=105 Dickenson's road, Manipal Centre| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Majestic | url= | email= | address=(''next to Fkcci Bldg''), KG Rd| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Anupams Coastal Express | url= | email= | address=Shivananda Circle | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They make fantastic fish dishes. Neer Dosa with Chicken Pulimunchi, kori roti and chicken ghee roast are some things you really cannot miss. }} * {{eat | name=Bobby-da-Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Lavanya Theatre, St John's Road, Near Ulsoor | lat=12.98369 | long=77.61391 | directions= | phone=+91 96 6367 8382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-3:45PM, 7:30PM-11PM | price= | content=The food is good (albeit slightly oily). It basically serves paranthas (with lots of butter), chaach, kheer and a number of side dishes (most notable being their shahi paneer and rajma). You may have to wait for a while in case it is full. So it's better to go slightly early, noon for lunch and 7:30PM for dinner to avoid rush). }} * {{eat | name=Coconut Grove | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97526 | long=77.60433 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Appams and Kerala parottas with a chicken sauce dish. Their lunch offer for ₹80 is also really good. A pretty good choice for reasonably priced quality seafood. Coco-Grove the outdoor 'beer cafe' extension is also worth a look. }} * {{eat | name=Fanoos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=adjoining Johnson Market, off Brigade Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the joints for getting sheekh (beef) rolls in Bangalore. They come in various sizes- sheekh roll, sheekh jumbo, sheekh mambo, sheekh rambo and sheekh sambo- the latter of which is almost 2 in thick. There are other options like chicken, mutton and paneer rolls as well as kababs and shawarma. ₹30-100 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Indian Coffee House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97474 | long=77.60533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=KC Das | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97588 | long=77.60179 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Bengali sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Kohinoor | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves very reasonably priced Kerala Muslim style food. }} * {{eat | name=Lake View Milk Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent ice creams, club sandwiches and burgers. }} * {{eat | name=Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) | alt= | url= | email= | address=11 Lal Bagh Rd | lat=12.9551857 | long=77.58556020000003 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2222 0022, +91 80 22221706 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-10-27| content=One of the very old traditional breakfast places in Bangalore. There are a few people who have been having their breakfast at MTR every day for the past 15 years. Closed between 2:45-3:30PM. Expect a long wait on weekends. Traditional 12-course Karnataka lunches are also available here for around ₹90 per head. Advance reservations recommended at weekends. Rava idlis, dosas and bisi bele bath are excellent. It has maintained its quality over the years and is very famous. It is on the road perpendicular to Lal bagh main gate. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Alibaba Cafe & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 7163 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Frazer Town. Arabian, Persian and Bhatkali cuisine described as "An Arabian Lake in the Indian Ocean". A themed restaurant with the feel of Arabia, Persia and India. The "Shaiya Biryani" of the Bhatkali cuisine, the Al faham chicken barbecue out of the Arabian cuisine and the chicken Jujeh kabab from the Persian cuisine are all recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Caesar's Multi Cuisine Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahalakshmi Chambers, 9/2, MG Rd. | lat= | long= | directions=beside HSBC bank opposite ING Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6:30PM–11:30PM | price= | content=Indian and continental food. Classic environment. The ambience is good, though the food is a tad expensive. Parking is a problem. }} * {{eat | name=Canopy | url= | email= | address=PU Building, M.G. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open air, multi-cuisine North-Indian food. Cooking techniques date back to the independence era offering the unique taste. Great outdoor ambiance in the middle of the central business district. ₹125-750 }} * {{eat | name=Ebony | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=on the 13th floor of the tallest building on MG Rd, Utility building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Stylish eatery with excellent evening views of the city. Service is a bit slow, but the ambiance makes it worth the wait. Book ahead for a terrace seat. ₹200-400 }} * {{eat | name=Koshy's | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat=12.97579 | long=77.60147 | directions=Below Church St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Bangalore institution, serving a smattering of Western favorites (like fish and chips) along with the usual South Indian fare in a bohemian-for-India atmosphere. On weekends, they serve up greasy Western-style breakfast, including omelettes and Bombay (i.e, French) Toast. Appam and stew is their Sunday breakfast special and a must eat. Turn right at the entrance for the more expensive (and decidedly less charming) A/C room. ₹50-200. Smoky, with sluggish service, and not particularly clean Koshy's still has plenty of character and history but its getting harder to justify their skyrocketing prices. }} * {{eat | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hot coffee to chilled Kingfisher beer on the tap awesome cocktails and even hand rolled Havana cigars. Salads, sandwiches, jacket baked potatoes to entrees. LRC also offers an Oxy Bar, Bangalore's first. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=Near Museum Rd | phone=+91 80 2227 7722, +91 90 2224 5864 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Upscale Chinese food. Good, fairly authentic food and excellent service. Serves a decent lunch buffet. Also new outlet on 100ft Road, Indiranagar. ₹500-800. }} * {{eat | name=Pinxx | url= | email= | address=Manipal centre | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place for Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. ₹200-400 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Samarkand | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gem Plaza, 66, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=East of Central St | phone=+91 80 4111 3366 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=North West frontier food (i.e., kebabs, Afghani) in a kitschy atmosphere but the food is great. You will need to book on weekends. ₹300-600. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Blue Ginger | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/restaurants/blue-ginger/ | email= | address=Taj West End | lat= | long= | directions=just next door to Blue Bar | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=High-end Vietnamese restaurant with a beautiful setting and excellent food. }} * {{eat | name=Graze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Taj Residency, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has some of the best creative continental you will get in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=I.Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Opposite 1 MG, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has the best Italian food in town }} * {{eat | name=Karavalli | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at the Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558-4545 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine. Best Indian food you will get when visiting BLR. }} * {{eat | name=Monsoon | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Next to Taj Residency | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24 hr cafe with a variety of Continental Dishes, Indian, Southeast Asian and Mediterranean. Ideal location for private parties. }} * {{eat | name=Olive Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A long time favourite that will serve you Italian meats and cheese in a nice setting, this is still among Bangalore's best. }} * {{eat | name=The Raj Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=ITC Windsor Manor, Golf Course Rd. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24/7 restaurant that offers the taste of the British Raj. Anglo-Lucknowi, Far East and Continental cuisine is served. Amongst the best in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=Sunny's | alt= | url= | email= | address=34 Vittal Mallya Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at Embassy Diamante | phone=+91 80 5132-9366, +91 80 5132-9391 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=About ₹1,200 for a 3-course meal for two, excluding drinks | content=Among the best restaurants in Bangalore. Try the starters, salads and pasta is fine here. Hot sandwiches for lunch. Also has a branch at Indira Nagar. }} * {{drink | name=Vaayu | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th floor, Eve Mall, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has comfortable lounge seating, and is open air, giving some nice views over the city. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Café Coffee Day | alt= | url=http://www.cafecoffeeday.com | email= | address= | lat=12.97130 | long=77.60712 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4001 2345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popularly known as CCD. Established in 1996, at Brigade Road, Bangalore, the chain has over 1,000 cafes throughout India. It is found all over Bangalore. }} * {{drink | name=Coffee Workers Co-op | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St's Brigade Gardens | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable Bangalore institution, with waiters in traditional uniforms and customers slowly savoring the age-old tradition of coffee drinking - though there are just two choices of coffee: black or white. Have some delightful "masala dosa" here. }} * {{drink | name=Java City | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pleasant old Bangalore atmosphere. Offers a wide variety of tea, coffee from all over the world including pizza, pasta, pastries, cookies, you name it they have it plus you get to see a unique sense of humor in their menu and on the walls. On Saturday and Sunday evenings, there is live music, rock and guitar. This place is simple, expatriate friendly and not at all pricy. There is another Java City near Lavelle Road. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Bull n Bush | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500 cover charge | content=Plays hip hop, house and occasionally trance. }} * {{drink | name=The Bunker | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Carpe Diem | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's a Power Metal haven. }} * {{drink | name=Ego's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Castle Street, off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10AM-11:30PM | price= | content=The latest watering hole in Bangalore. Rock music across the board screened on large plasma panels; every song can not only be heard but seen as well. Coffee, Kingfisher beer, cocktails, food and Bangalore's first oxy bar. }} * {{drink | name=New Night Watchman | alt= | url= | email= | address=Corner of Church Street and Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Little bit dingy but helpful bar staff - satellite TV has the Australia Network so you can watch Rugby Union and AFL games. }} * {{drink | name=Pecos | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/PECOS.Pubs | email= | address=Rest House Rd (''Off Brigade Road'') | lat=12.97373 | long=77.60717 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4090 5462, +91 944 982 7428 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=60s retro pub with a mural of Jerry Garcia. Often crowded on all 3 floors, including the pleasant roof-top seating area. Free popcorn with every pitcher of beer. Cards are available for frequent customers which make every tenth pitcher of beer free, but you may have to ask several times in order to acquire one and to get it updated. }} * {{drink | name=Sparks | alt= | url= | email= | address=Brigade Road Extension, next to Brigade Towers | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Styx | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=next to Cauvery Handicrafts on MG Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They put the "Heavy" in heavy metal! }} * {{drink | name=Sultanate of Swing | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free entry | content=Mainly plays Rock, Retro, Heavy Metal and has a Video DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Tavern at The Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Windsor Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vasanth Nagar (''off Mount Carmel's in Kodava Samaja Building'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small place which serves only beer, good food and is nice for a family outing. But only limited tables. }} * {{drink | name=Zeus | url= | email= | address=#174 2nd Floor Manohar Crest, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=above Health n Glow | phone=+91 80 2532 3355 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11:30PM | price= | content=Sports bar and lounge. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=13th Floor | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barton Centre, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Make a reservation. amazing view from the 13th floor }} * {{drink | name=Arbor Brewing Company | alt=ABC | url=https://www.arborbrewing.in/ | email=info@arborbrewing.in | address=8 Magrath Rd, Allied Grande Plaza, Ashok Nagar | lat=12.97027 | long=77.61089 | directions=Opp. Garuda Mall, Magrath Rd | phone=+91 80501 44477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon to 12:30AM | price= | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=Microbrewery that serves Belgian Triple, Smooth Criminal and Brassiere Blonde. Some of the smoothest beers in town and serves pub-style food. Has a nice vibe though it gets crowded during the weekend. }} * {{drink | name=Aura | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Biere Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vittal Mallya Rd on Lavelle Road, (''opp Sunny's''). | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bangalore’s first craft brewery and a popular place for beer lovers. }} * {{drink | name=Blue Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=West End, Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=On weekends you need to buy drink-tickets for ₹1,500 to enter. | content=Excellent drinks if you make sure Joel makes them. Officially they have a couple's only policy. Spontaneous dancing likely next to the bar. }} * {{drink | name=Hint | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th Floor, Bangalore Central, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Tuesdays is ladies night (couples permitted). }} * {{drink | name=iBar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Kosmo (Formerly Cosmo Village) | alt= | url= | email= | address=81 Ali Askar Road Cross (''Off Cunningham Road'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=3 separate areas including a terrace. This nightclub is a remodeled colonial villa on a quiet lane, with excellent DJs and expensive drinks, and attracts a wealthy clientele. }} * {{drink | name=Taika | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St. (''Off Brigade Rd'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Usually open past midnight and has a huge dance floor. 3 bars and a lounge area. Entrance varies each night. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Citizen Lodge | url= | email= | address=Lady Curzon Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Bowring Hospital, about {{km|1}} from MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double non-A/C room costs around from ₹850 | content=Bare bones motel-style establishment is well located but leaves much to be desired in terms of cleanliness and overall quality. }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel 29th Church's Inn | alt = formerly Church Street Inn | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-bangalore/fabhotel-29th-church-inn-mg-road.html | email= | address=#29th Church Street, off M.G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 70424 24242 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Manju Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22200679 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Naga Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41220539 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Omshakthi palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 26707927 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Retirement Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Central Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-05-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Mount Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakkal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41580000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Royal Regency Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.royalregencylodge.com | email= | address=S. C. Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Movieland theater | phone=+91 80 4113 0202 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹1500? | content=Clean rooms and convenient to the city’s local transports like the City bus station and the City Railway Station. }} * {{sleep | name=T.A.P. Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road Avenue Road; cross near Abhinay Theatre & Menaka Theatre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22280522 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=U. G. Classic | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=UG Deluxe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Majestic, Thulsi Thotta | lat= | long= | directions=stop near the small road opposite Upparpet Police station and next to Navaruchi restaurant, then take right and then immediate left on a small lane and at the end of it take right and you will see the lodge on your right | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=A/C rooms - ₹750, Non-A/C rooms - ₹550 | content=You may want to take an auto instead of walking down if you are going after a rainy day as your shoes will get dirty. }} * {{sleep | name=Vardhaman Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ganesh Lodge Building OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026707552 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹320 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=YMCA | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nrupathunga Rd | lat=12.97109 | long=77.58765 | directions=Near Cubbon Park | phone=+91 80 2221 1848 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=No-frills hotel. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Ajantha | alt= | url=http://hotelajantha.in/ | email=reservation@hotelajantha.in | address=22 Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 4321 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Sgl/dbl from ₹1500/₹1900, Cottage A/C ₹2700 | content=Good simple hotel with a vegetarian restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western The Capitol | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raj Bhavan Rd | lat=12.98246 | long=77.59450 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2228 1234, +91 80 2228 1800 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Fortune Park JP Celestial | url=http://www.fortunehotels.in/hotel/Bengaluru-Fortune_Park_JP_Celestial.aspx | email= | address=Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4044-1234 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bangalore Gate | alt=res@bangaloregate.com | url=http://www.hotelbangaloregate.com/ | email=book@hotelbangaloregate.com | address=9 and 12, Gajanana Towers, K G Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 99 4533 3999 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout= noon | price=₹3,600-4,800 | content=Executive, superior and premium rooms. All rooms are A/C with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. 24-hour room service, 2 restaurants, ample car parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komfort Terraces | alt= | url=http://komfortgrouphotels.com/ | email= | address=No 301, 3rd floor, Bluemoon Complex M G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4009 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout=noon | price=₹2381 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel St. Marks | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vrindavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=off MG Rd and very near to MG. Rd/Brigade Rd junction | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Nice hotel with great South Indian food. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Woodlands | alt= | url= | email= | address=No 5, Rajaram Mohan Roy Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Richmond Circle | phone=+91 80 2222 5111 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Very clean hotel, great views of the city, delicious free South Indian breakfast buffet for ₹3,400 per night for an A/C double (two single beds pushed together). Nice location for exploring the city. Long walk to M.G. Road, Garuda Mall, and Commercial Street. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Heritage Block, the Taj West End, Bangalore.jpg|thumb|Taj West End]] * {{sleep | name=Chancery Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96582 | long=77.59868 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=About $200 | content=Nice business hotel, good service and food }} * {{sleep | name=The Gateway Hotel, Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/gateway/residency-road-bangalore/ | email=gateway.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=66, Residency Road | lat=12.976750 | long=77.575280 | directions= | phone=+91 8066604545 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-21 | content=The Gateway Hotel Bengaluru is among the top hotels in the city and has won the National Tourism Award for three years in a row. }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Gardenia | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcgardenia-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96697 | long=77.59556 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2211 9898 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402720 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Windsor | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcwindsor-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=25, Golf Course Rd | lat=12.99414 | long=77.58597 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2226 9898 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹17,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru | alt= | url= | email= | address=24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd | lat=12.97245 | long=77.59479 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6718-9999 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹15,340-27,140 | wikidata=Q111402713 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lalit Ashok Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.nivalink.com/grandbangalore/ | email=grandashok@nivalink.com | address=Kumara Krupa High Grounds | lat=12.99225 | long=77.58188 | directions= | phone=+91 80 22 2404 2211 9 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi | alt= | url=http://www.oberoibangalore.com/index.asp?leftinfo=1&leftitem=1 | email= | address=37-39 MG Rd | lat=12.97332 | long=77.618164 | directions= | phone=+91 80 25585858 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402705 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com/banglore_home.htm | email=resv.blr@theparkhotels.com | address=14/7 MG Rd | lat=12.97391 | long=77.61961 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402703 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Bengaluru City Center | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-bengaluru-city-center | email= | address= | lat=12.976319 | long=77.61953 | directions= | phone=+91 80 62210103 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402698 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Taj MG Road | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-mgroad-bengaluru/ | email=reservations.mgroad@tajhotels.com | address=41/3 MG Rd | lat=12.97328 | long=77.61985 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6660-4444 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402704 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj West End | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/ | email=westend.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=Race Course Rd | lat=12.98 | long=77.58 | directions= | phone=+91 80 5660-5660 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64343188 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Nestled amidst 20 acres of flora and defined by its illustrious heritage and colonial charm. Started by the Bronsons as a 10-room inn in 1887, it now has 117 magnificent rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Bengaluru Residency Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9725 | long=77.60857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402710 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} j4jh9ipmyuhwwdz1cfkt3pf4gyesu1r 5091195 5091194 2025-07-11T05:36:29Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Cubbon Park area */ Updated listing for Attara Kacheri 5091195 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=Central Bangalore}} '''Central Bangalore''' is the heart of the city. It contains the original mud fort, the old neighbourhoods and the British-era cantonment. For a long time, it ''was'' the city, or rather the agglomeration of two cities: Bangalore Pete and Bangalore Cantonment. The older Pete has narrow alleys and dense living, while the newer Cantonment has wide streets and more greenery. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.975|77.598|width=700|height=550|zoom=14|name=Map of Central Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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===By metro=== The '''Purple Line''' {{rint|bangalore|purple}} serves the entire Central Bangalore east-west, from Mahatma Gandhi Road to KSR station. The '''Green Line''' {{rint|bangalore|green}} runs across the district north-south, serving Majestic, Chickpet and KR Market. Majestic is the interchange of Purple and Green lines. ==See== [[File:Tipu Palace bangalore.JPG|thumb|Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.962875 | long=77.575956 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q4855049 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Built in 1537. A small part with massive granite walls, big gates, a dungeon and a small Ganesha temple is still intact. Check out the stone carving high up on the wall to your left after entering the massive wooden door. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Centre | alt=Visvesvaraya Towers | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.982425 | long=77.595785 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130215606 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government office complex, built on the site of the house of Sir M. Visvesvaraya after his death. Initially constructed for the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), it was later bought by the state government to house government offices. The brutalist architecture of this high-rise building at Cubbon Park area stands in sharp contrast to the neoclassical architecture of Vidhana Soudha, Attara Kacheri and the General Post Office. The general public is not allowed into the premises, unless they have an appointment at one of the offices. }} ===Cubbon Park area=== [[File:High_Court_of_Karnataka,_Bangalore_MMK.jpg|thumb|Attara Kacheri]] [[File:Government Museum Bangalore (48186334876).jpg|thumb|Government Museum]] [[File:Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.jpg|thumbnail|Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum]] * {{see | name=Attara Kacheri | alt= | url=http://hck.gov.in/ | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.978056 | long=77.5925 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q104755615 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A two-storey neoclassical red-painted stone and brick building, hosting the High Court of Karnataka. It was previously a secretariat of eighteen departments, built under the reign of king Devaraja Wadiyar II in 1701. The main structure of the building is surrounded on all sides by porticoes and verandahs. The entire building is surfaced with plaster and painted with red ochre. It houses a law museum the houses an original print of the Constitution of India, articles and documents related to the legal profession, seals, insignia and books. It also showcases the history of the Karnataka High Court and the development of courts over the ages. }} * {{see | name=General Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9813 | long=77.595 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q64212872 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Its first floor contains a philatelic museum. }} * {{see | name=Kingfisher Towers | alt= | url= | email= | address=UB City | lat=12.97283 | long=77.59701 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kingfisher Towers Bangalore.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content=Probably the most famous high-rise residential building in Bangalore, despite not being the tallest in the city. The top of the building is occupied by a mansion, which is one of the few instances of a "building atop a building" in India. }} * {{see | name=Government Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9747 | long=77.5958 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q372869 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Established in 1865, the museum is flanked by the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum and the Venkatappa Art Gallery. It is an archaeological museum with a rare collection of archaeological and geological artefacts, including old jewellery, sculpture, coins and inscriptions. The museum is also home to the Halmidi inscription, the earliest writing in Kannada (450 CE). }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address=22, Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-7:30PM | price=2 free exhibitions, 2 paid exhibitions (₹150 combined) | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This museum presents 4 exhibitions (2 free and 2 paid, ₹150) and contains a café, restaurant and library over 5 stories. It's well worth a visit and takes about 2 hours. }} * {{see | name=Seshadari Iyer Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9746 | long=77.5907 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-14 | content=A distinctive red sandstone building, hosting the State Central Library. }} * {{see | name=Venkatappa Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974236 | long=77.595302 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24950240 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Vidhana Soudha | alt=Karnataka Legislative Assembly | url= | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.979693 | long=77.590658 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q283257 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=This granite building houses the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. It was built during the tenure of K. Hanumanthaiya, Chief Minister of Mysore State (1951–1956). A marvel of neo-Dravidian architecture, and one of the most imposing buildings in India. One of the interesting features of this building are the grand stairs in its front. The steps of the grand stairs are {{m|62}} wide and {{m|21}} deep, giving direct access to the foyer of the first floor leading to an assembly chamber. The architecture comprises of Dravidian richly carved bases and capitals for pillars, deep friezes, kapotha cornices, chaithya arches, heavy pediments domical finials. At the same time, the construction uses modern designs, making use of present-day materials like steel, reinforced concrete, glass, and plastic. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the ground or the building. It can only be viewed from the road and footpath outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Vikasa Soudha | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.978318 | long=77.589297 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65109682 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=Located next to Vidhana Soudha, built in the same classic style. It was inaugurated in 2005. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the premises. It can only be viewed from outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum | alt=VITM | url=https://www.vismuseum.gov.in/ | email=vitmuseum@gmail.com | address= | lat=12.9751 | long=77.5964 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+91 80-22866200 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-5:30PM (closed in Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali) | price= | wikidata=Q3537014 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Contains many fun learning activities and exhibitions that can be enjoyed by adults and children. Most exhibits are based on simple science, but some have industrial applications. For general visitors entry fee is ₹40. Some groups receive discounts (organised school groups, BPL Category when showing valid BPL card, etc). Entry is free for military and police personnel in uniform, the physically challenged, and children below 5 years of age. There is also a 3D show costing an extra ₹25 (for general public). }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Gandhi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kumara Park E | lat=12.988117 | long=77.579826 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60771806 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The museum consists of a gallery with rare photographs of Mahatma Gandhi and letters written by him, a library and an auditorium. It serves as a venue for meetings organised on Gandhian values in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=J's La Quill Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakachitrakalaparishath.com/index.php#gallery | email= | address= | lat=12.989167 | long=77.578367 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6372843 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A visual art complex with 18 galleries, 13 of which carry a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures and folk art. The folk art collection showcases Mysore paintings and leather puppets. }} * {{see | name=Kempegowda Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.974092 | long=77.610754 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM–5PM (closed Su) | price=Free | wikidata=Q6387055 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government museum dedicated to Bangalore's founder Kempe Gowda. It is housed in the Mayo Hall, which was built in memory of Lord Mayo, the 4th Viceroy of India. This two-storey building is known for its ornate furniture and architecture. It is adorned by chandeliers, Greek cornices, Tuscan columns, stone arches, wooden floors and beautiful furnishings. The building itself offers a panoramic view of the city's Parade Grounds and Ulsoor Lake on one side, and the Bangalore Race Course and Brigade Grounds on the south. }} * {{see | name=National Military Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.985521 | long=77.590458 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q18379547 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=A memorial-cum-museum dedicated to the personnel and families of martyrs who have died in the service of the nation. The collection in the museum include mockups of missiles like AKASH, Prithvi and BrahMos and rockets like Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). }} * {{see | name=National Gallery of Modern Art | alt=NGMA | url=http://ngmaindia.gov.in/ngma_bangaluru.asp | email= | address=49, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd | lat=12.989705 | long=77.58815 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa Su 11AM-7:30PM, Tu-F 11AM-6PM | price=₹20 for Indian citizens, ₹500 for foreigners | wikidata=Q17077814 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The National Gallery of Modern Art houses an auditorium, café, shop and exhibitions of modern and contemporary art in a beautiful building. The gallery organises and hosts talks on art and culture by speakers, seminars, film screenings as well as workshops and guided walks throughout the year. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Albert Victor Rd | lat=12.959494 | long=77.573572 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone=+91 80 2670 6836 | tollfree= | hours=daily 9:30AM-5:30PM | price=₹20 for Indians/SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens and ₹250 for foreigners (tickets only available online, you will need a phone with a QR code scanner and mobile data) | wikidata=Q7809034 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Dating to about 1790, it was the summer retreat for Tipu Sultan. The two-storey structure is made mostly out of wood with finely embellished balconies, pillars and arches. It contains a small museum with information on Tipu Sultan. }} ===Natural attractions=== * {{see | name=Lalbagh Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.95 | long=77.59 | directions=metro: {{station|Lalbagh|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q200711 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Built during the reigns of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, the botanical garden is home to numerous wild species of birds and other wildlife. The garden also has a lake adjoining a large rock is home to some water birds. Flower shows are conducted annually during the weeks of Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August) to educate the public about the variety of flora and foster public interest in plant conservation and cultivation. }} ===Places of worship=== [[File:Holy Trinity Church Bangalore Entrance.jpg|thumb|The entrance to the Holy Trinity Church]] ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Holy Trinity Church | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.972118 | long=77.620622 | directions=at Trinity circle at the east end of the MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5886431 | content=A major landmark of Central Bangalore. It was built in 1851, for the British Regiment stationed in Bangalore. Built-in the English Renaissance style, the church can accommodate 700 people and is regarded as the largest military church in southern India. It has a congregation of over 450 families. }} * {{see | name=Hudson Memorial Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hudson Circle | lat=12.967401 | long=77.587911 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24937604 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=Established in 1904 and named after missionary and scholar Rev. Josiah Hudson, who was responsible for opening Kannada schools in Bangalore Pete. The church attracts people of all faiths, especially in Thursdays and Sundays. }} * {{see | name=St. Andrew's Church | alt= | url=http://standrewschurch.org.in | email= | address=Cubbon Rd | lat=12.9792 | long=77.6042 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898472 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A Presbyterian church, consecrated in memory of Mary Elizabeth McGoun, wife of Col. Thomas McGoun of the 6th Madras Native Infantry. It is an example of Gothic architecture in the city, with a steeping roof of Mangalore tiles, a row of decorative ridge-tiles on the top, turreted parapets and gables, iron crested towers, intricately done plaster motifs, railings of cast iron, and pilasters and pavilions rising from the wing. }} * {{see | name=St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.parramattacathedral.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.992679 | long=77.611314 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7588004 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=St. John's Church | alt= | url=http://stjohnschurchbangalore.com/ | email= | address= | lat=12.9918 | long=77.613 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898476 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The fourth oldest Protestant church in the city, with a distinct red edifice and towering steeple, rising out of the leafy surroundings. There's a memorial in front of the church for its members who lost their lives in service of 'King and Empire', in World War I. }} * {{see | name=St. Mark's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.saintmarks.in | email= | address= | lat=12.97606 | long=77.60034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898479 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=The sole cathedral of Bangalore is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist. It is famous for its English Baroque architecture inspired by [[London]]'s St Paul's Cathedral. The entrance has elaborate woodwork with ornate carvings. The bell is the amongst the most well-maintained church bells in India. The stained glasswork adds to the beauty of the cathedral. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Basilica | alt= | url=http://www.stmarysbasilica.in/ | email= | address= | lat=12.984417 | long=77.60425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7590089 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content=The oldest church in Bangalore, and the only church in the state which has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities held during the St. Mary's Feast in the month of September each year, an event that attracts devotees from in and around Bangalore. The basilica is built in Gothic style with arches, ornamental motifs and stained glass windows. Multiple columns and tall spires of the basilica can be seen from quite a distance. The stained glass windows were removed during World War II and were subsequently restored in 1947. }} ====Temples==== * {{see | name=Dharmaraya Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.965444 | long=77.583389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2065042 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=One of the oldest temples of Bangalore and also the smallest, the Temple has existed since the times of Kempe Gowda. It is on S.P. Road close to Corporation Circle, behind the LIC building. This temple is famous for the Annual Karaga Festival held every summer. The Presiding Deity is Dharmaraya (Yudishthira) & Consort Draupadi, making it a unique one of its kind. }} * {{see | name=Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.959524 | long=77.574305 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}}, next to Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6433914 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A fine example of Dravidian architecture, built by Maharaja Chikkadevaraya Wodeyar. }} * {{see | name=Maha Bodhi Society Temple | url= | email= | address=No. 14, Kalidas Road, Gandhi Nagar | lat=12.97817 | long=77.58069 | directions=northwest rim of Freedom Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at [[Bodh Gaya]]. The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English. }} * {{see | name=Someshwara Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Halasuru | lat=12.975556 | long=77.623889 | directions=close to Halasuru Police station; metro: {{station|Halasuru|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q16891973 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples of the city. The inner sanctum sanctorum is said to have been built in the 8th century by the Cholas, who ruled this place, the outer Praharam during the Hoysalas of the 11th century, while the front hall construction and the Gopuram during the Vijayanagar Empire of the 15th century. The structure resembles the various changes the temple has gone through during the period, with major additions and renovations done to preserve the temple. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Bangalore Race Course | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98235 | long=77.58094 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{do | name=Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium | alt= | url=http://www.taralaya.org/ | email=info@taralaya.org | address=Bangalore Association for Science Education, Sri T. Choudaiah Road, High Grounds | lat=12.98486 | long=77.58954 | directions=opposite Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, Near Raj Bhavan | phone=+91 80-22379725 | tollfree= | hours=12:30-4:30PM (closed M and second Th) | price=₹35 for adults and ₹20 for school students and children (up to 16 years), children below 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky-Theatre | wikidata=Q6987903 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A very good planetarium for adults and children alike. Shows are offered in Kannada and English. Each show is about 30 minutes long. There are about 200 seats available for each show. A ticket can be used only for the show mentioned on the ticket, and is non-refundable if you miss that show. }} * {{do | name=Sir Puttanna Chetty Town Hall | alt=Bangalore Town Hall | url= | email= | address=112 JC Road | lat=12.96376 | long=77.58579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4855080 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A neoclassical building. The structure features a flight of steps leading to the entrance porch resting on Tuscan columns with identical columns extending on either sides. The auditorium has two floors with a total capacity of 810 seats. }} * {{do | name=Urvashi Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lalbagh Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Lalbagh Main gate & MTR | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-08 | content=A cool remodified theatre that allows a 1st hand experience in watching movies. One of the oldest theatres and important landmark of the City }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Chitra Santhe (Paintings market) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.99053 | long=77.58234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An annual exhibition, held on the first Sunday of every year in January, the Chitra Santhe on Kumara Krupa Road (near Golf Course) brings together artists from all across Karnataka. Paintings, pottery, and sculpture are all on an exhibition-cum-sale. The road is closed to traffic on that day, making it possible to have a leisurely stroll, admiring and buying the items. Prices range from ₹100-20,000. Bargaining is recommended, but not too hard. Pay a fair price. (Credit cards and foreign currency are rarely accepted, so carry sufficient cash in Indian currency). }} * {{do | name=Flower Show (Biannual) | alt= | url= | email= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 9AM to 5PM | price= ₹50 entry fees | content=A bi-annual affair at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, during the Independence Day (August 15th) & Republic Day (January 26th). Various companies display their floral exhibits in this period, normally held from a week before the above-mentioned days. The main epicentre would be a Rose arrangement representing a theme, or a heritage structure, which attracts major crowd from around Bangalore. }} * {{do | name=Mango Mela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM to 5PM | price=₹30 entry fees | content=An annual affair, at the beginning of summer, the season for the king of fruits. Normally, mangoes (raw & ripe), cultivated in Bangalore Rural and Ramanagara, as well as in neighbouring Kolar and Chikballapur, are brought and kept for show as well as sale during this period, at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. A must-visit for mango fans. }} ===Parks and stadiums=== * {{do | name=Cubbon Park | alt=Sri Chamarajendra Udyanavana | url=http://www.horticulture.kar.nic.in/cubbon.htm | email= | address= | lat=12.975 | long=77.593333 | directions=opposite to Chinnaswamy Stadium, {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3633776 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A nice forested area in the city centre. The entrance from Queen's Statue forms the tourist attraction owing to the presence of the Government Aquarium and Bal Bhavan, a play area for kids. '''Puttaani Express''' a small toy train for kids, runs inside the Bal Bhavan, attracting kids from far and near. For attractions around the park, see the [[#Cubbon Park area|Cubbon Park area]] subsection of See. }} * {{do | name=Freedom Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.977272 | long=77.581844 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5500576 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A park built on the grounds of a prison. It is also used for public protests. }} * {{do | name=M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat=12.978806 | long=77.599556 | directions={{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+90 80 4015 4015 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1861907 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=With a capacity of 40,000, this is the home of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has a large and loud following. The IPL season typically is from March to May every year, matches are played in the evenings and last around 3 hours. Scour the daily newspapers for ticket information - tickets sell out a week before. }} * {{do | name=Sree Kanteerava Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.969556 | long=77.593469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7585638 | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=A multi-purpose stadium with a running track, a volleyball court, and two outdoor rock-climbing walls. }} * {{do | name=Ulsoor Lake | alt=Halasuru lake | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.981472 | long=77.619214 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30587793 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore, with several islands. There's a watch tower with a Chinese bell on the lake. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=SPA.ce | alt= | url=http://www.spacethespa.com | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by an expat Brit. Offers a variety of massages, scrubs, and facials. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française de Bangalore | alt= | url=http://bangalore.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Thimmaiah Rd, Kaverappa Layout | lat=12.991477 | long=77.596851 | directions= | phone=+91 7899562404 | tollfree= | hours=9:30AM&ndash;5:30PM (closed S) | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Offers French language courses. }} ==Buy== * The '''UB City''' and '''Vittal Mallya Road''' are Page-3 shopping areas. You'll find brands like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Kimaya in the UB City. Vittal Mallya Road has stores like '''The Collective''' which is a shop only for men. Armani, Versace, Boss, you name it, they have it. There's even Canary Blue and Esprit on the same road. * {{buy | name=Brigade Road/M.G. Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97520 | long=77.60817 | directions=metro: {{station|MG Road|purple}} right next to the intersection of both roads | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The most popular place for tourists. These two roads are filled with shops of every kind, whether it be traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear (this is especially true for Brigade Road). Brigade Road, where British soldiers used to buy their necessities, is now the centre of yuppie Bangalore; you'll see hordes of college students on the road any time of day or night. Stores on Brigade Road include: Planet M (a huge music store with everything), Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Phillipe, Pepe Jeans, Levis, Lee, SanFrisco Jeans, Nike, and Titan (great Indian made watches). There are also many eateries on Brigade road and on the side roads that lead off it. Fast food outlets include KFC (right at the entrance), Pizza Hut (at the other end of the road), and many cafes including the Indian coffee chain Cafe Coffee Day. Also includes a tattoo studio. M.G. Road is short for Mahatma Gandhi road. }} * {{buy | name=Commercial Street | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98219 | long=77.60824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A legacy of the British is another shopping mecca that sells international brands (similar to Brigade road) alongside locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. In addition, it is famous for its body piercing centres. The price of goods here is very competitive and it is a great place to pick a bargain. }} * {{buy | name=Krishna Rajendra Market | alt=KR Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.96563 | long=77.57636 | directions=metro: {{station|KR Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The city's largest vegetable and fruit market. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Gangarams Book Bureau | alt= | url=http://gangaramsbookbureau.com/ | email=gangaramsinternational@gmail.com | address=#3, Church Street, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-11 | content=Since 1977, a destination for booklovers with books in a diverse range from academic, professional and technical to fiction and non-fiction. }} * {{buy | name=Blossoms | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=parallel to MG Rd and nearby Coconut Grove Restaurant | phone=+91 80 255 9733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are 3 full floors of those rare, hard to find old books. All 2nd hand, good condition and at low rates. }} * {{buy | name=The Bookworm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Church Street, opposite Starbucks | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a small used book store. Good bargains on used and new books are available here. }} * {{buy | name=Crossword | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=ACR Towers, opposite Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558 2411-16 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks, music and movie section, children's section and a coffee shop. A wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop. }} * {{buy | name=Elloor Library | url= | email= | address=Blue Cross Chambers, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=close to Commercial St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Requires membership which includes a deposit. }} * {{buy | name=Gangarams Mg road | url= | email=gangarams@vsnl.com | address=Triumph Tower, 2nd Floor, 48 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite High Gates Hotel and Mainland China; Church Street is parallel to Mahatma Gandhi ("MG") Road | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa | price= | content=A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works. }} * {{buy | name=Goobes Book Republic | url=http://www.goobes.wordpress.com | email=goobesbookrepublic@gmail.com | address=46-1-1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=in the basement of Church Street Inn, Budget Hotel, near MG Rd | phone=+91 80 4112 4956 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Secondhand and new books on a wide variety of subjects and a very cost effective library option and buy back used books. }} * {{buy | name=Higginbothams | alt= | url= | email= | address=68 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7359, +91 80 2558 6574 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This bookstore has a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels. }} * {{buy | name=Premier Book Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address=46/1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone=+91 80 2558 8570 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down. This store however, will shut down shortly. }} * {{buy | name=Sapna Book House | url=http://www.sapnaonline.com/ | email= | address=3rd Main Rd, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Walking distance from Majestic Bus stand | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a large bookstore, they also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery. }} * {{buy | name=Select Bookshop | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd Behind Curzon Court Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books. }} * {{buy | name=The Strand book stall | alt= | url=http://www.strandbookstall.com/ | email= | address=Dickenson Rd | lat= | long= | directions=1st Floor, Manipal Centre | phone=+91 80 2558 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Mahendra Textiles | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4124 9900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sarees and dress materials from Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kerala and Sri Lanka. }} * {{buy | name=Marmalade | alt= | url= | email= | address=Magrath Rd | lat= | long= | directions=adj to Spratt Salon; left before Coffee Day, on Brigade Rd Extn | phone=+91 80 4122 1814 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of affordable young designer wear. }} * {{buy | name=Native Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=behind Museum Rd Post Office, Museum Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of interesting merchandise, crafts made by NGOs, c/o The Only Place Restaurant. }} * {{buy | name=One G | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4123 1231 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(Jewellery) Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Rd. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of [[Mysore]] sandalwood are an especially good buy. }} * {{buy | name=Central Cottage Industries Emporium | alt=CCIE | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], Bangalore and [[Chennai]]. }} * {{buy | name=Chandi - The Divine Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Shop No. 12, First Floor, Public Utility Building | phone=+91 80 4112 3590, +91 80 4112 3610 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialising in Indian divine figures in all mediums. Claims to have the biggest collection of Ganeshas in town. High-quality and locally-priced wares, supposedly no pushy salesmanship. }} * {{buy | name=Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialises in Karnataka handicraft. }} ===Jewellery=== * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons | alt=Diamond Flagship Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=2-1 Main Cross Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Safina Plaza | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content={{convert|14000|ft2}} dedicated to the finest gold and diamond jewellery, spread over two floors. }} * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons-The Heritage Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=35 & 36 Commercial St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Dedicated to gold and silver. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Garuda Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97004 | long=77.60968 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads. }} * {{buy | name=Safina Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97977 | long=77.60696 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The sale capital of Bangalore, on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi). }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Annapoorna | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ulsoor | lat= | long= | directions=near Sai Baba Temple in Ulsoor. Need to get down at Ulsoor police station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pure vegetarian food in Tamil style. }} * {{eat | name=Bheemas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you have the penchant for spice this place is meant for you. }} * {{eat | name=I-Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Park, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Expensive, but arguably the best Italian food in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kudla | alt= | url=http://www.ramanashree.com/ | email= | address=Ramanashree Comforts, Richmond Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For seafood, serves excellent dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Oh! Calcutta | alt= | url= | email= | address=St Mark's Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Part of a chain of restaurants across the country, and the best Bengali food available in the city albeit pricier than the other options. }} * {{eat | name=Pabrai's Fresh and Naturalle Ice Cream | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood Street, Ashok Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6453 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Palms | alt= | url= | email= | address=33 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=at the Highgates Hotel | phone=+91 80 2559 7172 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Coorgi, and Malabari style. (shut for renovations) }} * {{eat | name=Queens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church Street, opposite Amoeba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small restaurant but great food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=RRs | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A renovation of the vintage RRs, the fun doubles here with the double storeyed restaurant, one serving Andhra and the other Hyderabadi cuisines. There's also alcohol, all the more reason to indulge on a Saturday afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Tijouri | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Atria, Palace Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2220 5205 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Delicacy| url= | email= | address=105 Dickenson's road, Manipal Centre| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Majestic | url= | email= | address=(''next to Fkcci Bldg''), KG Rd| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Anupams Coastal Express | url= | email= | address=Shivananda Circle | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They make fantastic fish dishes. Neer Dosa with Chicken Pulimunchi, kori roti and chicken ghee roast are some things you really cannot miss. }} * {{eat | name=Bobby-da-Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Lavanya Theatre, St John's Road, Near Ulsoor | lat=12.98369 | long=77.61391 | directions= | phone=+91 96 6367 8382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-3:45PM, 7:30PM-11PM | price= | content=The food is good (albeit slightly oily). It basically serves paranthas (with lots of butter), chaach, kheer and a number of side dishes (most notable being their shahi paneer and rajma). You may have to wait for a while in case it is full. So it's better to go slightly early, noon for lunch and 7:30PM for dinner to avoid rush). }} * {{eat | name=Coconut Grove | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97526 | long=77.60433 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Appams and Kerala parottas with a chicken sauce dish. Their lunch offer for ₹80 is also really good. A pretty good choice for reasonably priced quality seafood. Coco-Grove the outdoor 'beer cafe' extension is also worth a look. }} * {{eat | name=Fanoos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=adjoining Johnson Market, off Brigade Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the joints for getting sheekh (beef) rolls in Bangalore. They come in various sizes- sheekh roll, sheekh jumbo, sheekh mambo, sheekh rambo and sheekh sambo- the latter of which is almost 2 in thick. There are other options like chicken, mutton and paneer rolls as well as kababs and shawarma. ₹30-100 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Indian Coffee House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97474 | long=77.60533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=KC Das | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97588 | long=77.60179 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Bengali sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Kohinoor | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves very reasonably priced Kerala Muslim style food. }} * {{eat | name=Lake View Milk Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent ice creams, club sandwiches and burgers. }} * {{eat | name=Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) | alt= | url= | email= | address=11 Lal Bagh Rd | lat=12.9551857 | long=77.58556020000003 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2222 0022, +91 80 22221706 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-10-27| content=One of the very old traditional breakfast places in Bangalore. There are a few people who have been having their breakfast at MTR every day for the past 15 years. Closed between 2:45-3:30PM. Expect a long wait on weekends. Traditional 12-course Karnataka lunches are also available here for around ₹90 per head. Advance reservations recommended at weekends. Rava idlis, dosas and bisi bele bath are excellent. It has maintained its quality over the years and is very famous. It is on the road perpendicular to Lal bagh main gate. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Alibaba Cafe & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 7163 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Frazer Town. Arabian, Persian and Bhatkali cuisine described as "An Arabian Lake in the Indian Ocean". A themed restaurant with the feel of Arabia, Persia and India. The "Shaiya Biryani" of the Bhatkali cuisine, the Al faham chicken barbecue out of the Arabian cuisine and the chicken Jujeh kabab from the Persian cuisine are all recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Caesar's Multi Cuisine Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahalakshmi Chambers, 9/2, MG Rd. | lat= | long= | directions=beside HSBC bank opposite ING Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6:30PM–11:30PM | price= | content=Indian and continental food. Classic environment. The ambience is good, though the food is a tad expensive. Parking is a problem. }} * {{eat | name=Canopy | url= | email= | address=PU Building, M.G. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open air, multi-cuisine North-Indian food. Cooking techniques date back to the independence era offering the unique taste. Great outdoor ambiance in the middle of the central business district. ₹125-750 }} * {{eat | name=Ebony | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=on the 13th floor of the tallest building on MG Rd, Utility building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Stylish eatery with excellent evening views of the city. Service is a bit slow, but the ambiance makes it worth the wait. Book ahead for a terrace seat. ₹200-400 }} * {{eat | name=Koshy's | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat=12.97579 | long=77.60147 | directions=Below Church St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Bangalore institution, serving a smattering of Western favorites (like fish and chips) along with the usual South Indian fare in a bohemian-for-India atmosphere. On weekends, they serve up greasy Western-style breakfast, including omelettes and Bombay (i.e, French) Toast. Appam and stew is their Sunday breakfast special and a must eat. Turn right at the entrance for the more expensive (and decidedly less charming) A/C room. ₹50-200. Smoky, with sluggish service, and not particularly clean Koshy's still has plenty of character and history but its getting harder to justify their skyrocketing prices. }} * {{eat | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hot coffee to chilled Kingfisher beer on the tap awesome cocktails and even hand rolled Havana cigars. Salads, sandwiches, jacket baked potatoes to entrees. LRC also offers an Oxy Bar, Bangalore's first. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=Near Museum Rd | phone=+91 80 2227 7722, +91 90 2224 5864 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Upscale Chinese food. Good, fairly authentic food and excellent service. Serves a decent lunch buffet. Also new outlet on 100ft Road, Indiranagar. ₹500-800. }} * {{eat | name=Pinxx | url= | email= | address=Manipal centre | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place for Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. ₹200-400 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Samarkand | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gem Plaza, 66, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=East of Central St | phone=+91 80 4111 3366 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=North West frontier food (i.e., kebabs, Afghani) in a kitschy atmosphere but the food is great. You will need to book on weekends. ₹300-600. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Blue Ginger | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/restaurants/blue-ginger/ | email= | address=Taj West End | lat= | long= | directions=just next door to Blue Bar | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=High-end Vietnamese restaurant with a beautiful setting and excellent food. }} * {{eat | name=Graze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Taj Residency, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has some of the best creative continental you will get in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=I.Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Opposite 1 MG, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has the best Italian food in town }} * {{eat | name=Karavalli | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at the Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558-4545 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine. Best Indian food you will get when visiting BLR. }} * {{eat | name=Monsoon | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Next to Taj Residency | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24 hr cafe with a variety of Continental Dishes, Indian, Southeast Asian and Mediterranean. Ideal location for private parties. }} * {{eat | name=Olive Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A long time favourite that will serve you Italian meats and cheese in a nice setting, this is still among Bangalore's best. }} * {{eat | name=The Raj Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=ITC Windsor Manor, Golf Course Rd. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24/7 restaurant that offers the taste of the British Raj. Anglo-Lucknowi, Far East and Continental cuisine is served. Amongst the best in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=Sunny's | alt= | url= | email= | address=34 Vittal Mallya Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at Embassy Diamante | phone=+91 80 5132-9366, +91 80 5132-9391 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=About ₹1,200 for a 3-course meal for two, excluding drinks | content=Among the best restaurants in Bangalore. Try the starters, salads and pasta is fine here. Hot sandwiches for lunch. Also has a branch at Indira Nagar. }} * {{drink | name=Vaayu | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th floor, Eve Mall, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has comfortable lounge seating, and is open air, giving some nice views over the city. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Café Coffee Day | alt= | url=http://www.cafecoffeeday.com | email= | address= | lat=12.97130 | long=77.60712 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4001 2345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popularly known as CCD. Established in 1996, at Brigade Road, Bangalore, the chain has over 1,000 cafes throughout India. It is found all over Bangalore. }} * {{drink | name=Coffee Workers Co-op | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St's Brigade Gardens | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable Bangalore institution, with waiters in traditional uniforms and customers slowly savoring the age-old tradition of coffee drinking - though there are just two choices of coffee: black or white. Have some delightful "masala dosa" here. }} * {{drink | name=Java City | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pleasant old Bangalore atmosphere. Offers a wide variety of tea, coffee from all over the world including pizza, pasta, pastries, cookies, you name it they have it plus you get to see a unique sense of humor in their menu and on the walls. On Saturday and Sunday evenings, there is live music, rock and guitar. This place is simple, expatriate friendly and not at all pricy. There is another Java City near Lavelle Road. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Bull n Bush | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500 cover charge | content=Plays hip hop, house and occasionally trance. }} * {{drink | name=The Bunker | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Carpe Diem | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's a Power Metal haven. }} * {{drink | name=Ego's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Castle Street, off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10AM-11:30PM | price= | content=The latest watering hole in Bangalore. Rock music across the board screened on large plasma panels; every song can not only be heard but seen as well. Coffee, Kingfisher beer, cocktails, food and Bangalore's first oxy bar. }} * {{drink | name=New Night Watchman | alt= | url= | email= | address=Corner of Church Street and Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Little bit dingy but helpful bar staff - satellite TV has the Australia Network so you can watch Rugby Union and AFL games. }} * {{drink | name=Pecos | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/PECOS.Pubs | email= | address=Rest House Rd (''Off Brigade Road'') | lat=12.97373 | long=77.60717 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4090 5462, +91 944 982 7428 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=60s retro pub with a mural of Jerry Garcia. Often crowded on all 3 floors, including the pleasant roof-top seating area. Free popcorn with every pitcher of beer. Cards are available for frequent customers which make every tenth pitcher of beer free, but you may have to ask several times in order to acquire one and to get it updated. }} * {{drink | name=Sparks | alt= | url= | email= | address=Brigade Road Extension, next to Brigade Towers | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Styx | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=next to Cauvery Handicrafts on MG Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They put the "Heavy" in heavy metal! }} * {{drink | name=Sultanate of Swing | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free entry | content=Mainly plays Rock, Retro, Heavy Metal and has a Video DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Tavern at The Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Windsor Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vasanth Nagar (''off Mount Carmel's in Kodava Samaja Building'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small place which serves only beer, good food and is nice for a family outing. But only limited tables. }} * {{drink | name=Zeus | url= | email= | address=#174 2nd Floor Manohar Crest, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=above Health n Glow | phone=+91 80 2532 3355 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11:30PM | price= | content=Sports bar and lounge. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=13th Floor | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barton Centre, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Make a reservation. amazing view from the 13th floor }} * {{drink | name=Arbor Brewing Company | alt=ABC | url=https://www.arborbrewing.in/ | email=info@arborbrewing.in | address=8 Magrath Rd, Allied Grande Plaza, Ashok Nagar | lat=12.97027 | long=77.61089 | directions=Opp. Garuda Mall, Magrath Rd | phone=+91 80501 44477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon to 12:30AM | price= | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=Microbrewery that serves Belgian Triple, Smooth Criminal and Brassiere Blonde. Some of the smoothest beers in town and serves pub-style food. Has a nice vibe though it gets crowded during the weekend. }} * {{drink | name=Aura | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Biere Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vittal Mallya Rd on Lavelle Road, (''opp Sunny's''). | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bangalore’s first craft brewery and a popular place for beer lovers. }} * {{drink | name=Blue Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=West End, Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=On weekends you need to buy drink-tickets for ₹1,500 to enter. | content=Excellent drinks if you make sure Joel makes them. Officially they have a couple's only policy. Spontaneous dancing likely next to the bar. }} * {{drink | name=Hint | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th Floor, Bangalore Central, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Tuesdays is ladies night (couples permitted). }} * {{drink | name=iBar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Kosmo (Formerly Cosmo Village) | alt= | url= | email= | address=81 Ali Askar Road Cross (''Off Cunningham Road'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=3 separate areas including a terrace. This nightclub is a remodeled colonial villa on a quiet lane, with excellent DJs and expensive drinks, and attracts a wealthy clientele. }} * {{drink | name=Taika | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St. (''Off Brigade Rd'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Usually open past midnight and has a huge dance floor. 3 bars and a lounge area. Entrance varies each night. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Citizen Lodge | url= | email= | address=Lady Curzon Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Bowring Hospital, about {{km|1}} from MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double non-A/C room costs around from ₹850 | content=Bare bones motel-style establishment is well located but leaves much to be desired in terms of cleanliness and overall quality. }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel 29th Church's Inn | alt = formerly Church Street Inn | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-bangalore/fabhotel-29th-church-inn-mg-road.html | email= | address=#29th Church Street, off M.G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 70424 24242 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Manju Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22200679 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Naga Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41220539 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Omshakthi palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 26707927 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Retirement Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Central Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-05-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Mount Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakkal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41580000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Royal Regency Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.royalregencylodge.com | email= | address=S. C. Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Movieland theater | phone=+91 80 4113 0202 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹1500? | content=Clean rooms and convenient to the city’s local transports like the City bus station and the City Railway Station. }} * {{sleep | name=T.A.P. Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road Avenue Road; cross near Abhinay Theatre & Menaka Theatre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22280522 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=U. G. Classic | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=UG Deluxe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Majestic, Thulsi Thotta | lat= | long= | directions=stop near the small road opposite Upparpet Police station and next to Navaruchi restaurant, then take right and then immediate left on a small lane and at the end of it take right and you will see the lodge on your right | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=A/C rooms - ₹750, Non-A/C rooms - ₹550 | content=You may want to take an auto instead of walking down if you are going after a rainy day as your shoes will get dirty. }} * {{sleep | name=Vardhaman Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ganesh Lodge Building OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026707552 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹320 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=YMCA | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nrupathunga Rd | lat=12.97109 | long=77.58765 | directions=Near Cubbon Park | phone=+91 80 2221 1848 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=No-frills hotel. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Ajantha | alt= | url=http://hotelajantha.in/ | email=reservation@hotelajantha.in | address=22 Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 4321 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Sgl/dbl from ₹1500/₹1900, Cottage A/C ₹2700 | content=Good simple hotel with a vegetarian restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western The Capitol | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raj Bhavan Rd | lat=12.98246 | long=77.59450 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2228 1234, +91 80 2228 1800 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Fortune Park JP Celestial | url=http://www.fortunehotels.in/hotel/Bengaluru-Fortune_Park_JP_Celestial.aspx | email= | address=Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4044-1234 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bangalore Gate | alt=res@bangaloregate.com | url=http://www.hotelbangaloregate.com/ | email=book@hotelbangaloregate.com | address=9 and 12, Gajanana Towers, K G Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 99 4533 3999 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout= noon | price=₹3,600-4,800 | content=Executive, superior and premium rooms. All rooms are A/C with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. 24-hour room service, 2 restaurants, ample car parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komfort Terraces | alt= | url=http://komfortgrouphotels.com/ | email= | address=No 301, 3rd floor, Bluemoon Complex M G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4009 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout=noon | price=₹2381 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel St. Marks | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vrindavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=off MG Rd and very near to MG. Rd/Brigade Rd junction | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Nice hotel with great South Indian food. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Woodlands | alt= | url= | email= | address=No 5, Rajaram Mohan Roy Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Richmond Circle | phone=+91 80 2222 5111 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Very clean hotel, great views of the city, delicious free South Indian breakfast buffet for ₹3,400 per night for an A/C double (two single beds pushed together). Nice location for exploring the city. Long walk to M.G. Road, Garuda Mall, and Commercial Street. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Heritage Block, the Taj West End, Bangalore.jpg|thumb|Taj West End]] * {{sleep | name=Chancery Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96582 | long=77.59868 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=About $200 | content=Nice business hotel, good service and food }} * {{sleep | name=The Gateway Hotel, Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/gateway/residency-road-bangalore/ | email=gateway.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=66, Residency Road | lat=12.976750 | long=77.575280 | directions= | phone=+91 8066604545 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-21 | content=The Gateway Hotel Bengaluru is among the top hotels in the city and has won the National Tourism Award for three years in a row. }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Gardenia | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcgardenia-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96697 | long=77.59556 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2211 9898 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402720 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Windsor | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcwindsor-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=25, Golf Course Rd | lat=12.99414 | long=77.58597 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2226 9898 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹17,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru | alt= | url= | email= | address=24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd | lat=12.97245 | long=77.59479 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6718-9999 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹15,340-27,140 | wikidata=Q111402713 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lalit Ashok Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.nivalink.com/grandbangalore/ | email=grandashok@nivalink.com | address=Kumara Krupa High Grounds | lat=12.99225 | long=77.58188 | directions= | phone=+91 80 22 2404 2211 9 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi | alt= | url=http://www.oberoibangalore.com/index.asp?leftinfo=1&leftitem=1 | email= | address=37-39 MG Rd | lat=12.97332 | long=77.618164 | directions= | phone=+91 80 25585858 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402705 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com/banglore_home.htm | email=resv.blr@theparkhotels.com | address=14/7 MG Rd | lat=12.97391 | long=77.61961 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402703 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Bengaluru City Center | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-bengaluru-city-center | email= | address= | lat=12.976319 | long=77.61953 | directions= | phone=+91 80 62210103 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402698 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Taj MG Road | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-mgroad-bengaluru/ | email=reservations.mgroad@tajhotels.com | address=41/3 MG Rd | lat=12.97328 | long=77.61985 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6660-4444 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402704 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj West End | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/ | email=westend.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=Race Course Rd | lat=12.98 | long=77.58 | directions= | phone=+91 80 5660-5660 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64343188 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Nestled amidst 20 acres of flora and defined by its illustrious heritage and colonial charm. Started by the Bronsons as a 10-room inn in 1887, it now has 117 magnificent rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Bengaluru Residency Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9725 | long=77.60857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402710 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} 2wxj5xxdq5k38lmxah0y27iw0xm4sou 5091196 5091195 2025-07-11T05:39:01Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Museums and galleries */ new listing from WP. 5091196 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=Central Bangalore}} '''Central Bangalore''' is the heart of the city. It contains the original mud fort, the old neighbourhoods and the British-era cantonment. For a long time, it ''was'' the city, or rather the agglomeration of two cities: Bangalore Pete and Bangalore Cantonment. The older Pete has narrow alleys and dense living, while the newer Cantonment has wide streets and more greenery. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.975|77.598|width=700|height=550|zoom=14|name=Map of Central Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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===By metro=== The '''Purple Line''' {{rint|bangalore|purple}} serves the entire Central Bangalore east-west, from Mahatma Gandhi Road to KSR station. The '''Green Line''' {{rint|bangalore|green}} runs across the district north-south, serving Majestic, Chickpet and KR Market. Majestic is the interchange of Purple and Green lines. ==See== [[File:Tipu Palace bangalore.JPG|thumb|Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.962875 | long=77.575956 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q4855049 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Built in 1537. A small part with massive granite walls, big gates, a dungeon and a small Ganesha temple is still intact. Check out the stone carving high up on the wall to your left after entering the massive wooden door. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Centre | alt=Visvesvaraya Towers | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.982425 | long=77.595785 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130215606 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government office complex, built on the site of the house of Sir M. Visvesvaraya after his death. Initially constructed for the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), it was later bought by the state government to house government offices. The brutalist architecture of this high-rise building at Cubbon Park area stands in sharp contrast to the neoclassical architecture of Vidhana Soudha, Attara Kacheri and the General Post Office. The general public is not allowed into the premises, unless they have an appointment at one of the offices. }} ===Cubbon Park area=== [[File:High_Court_of_Karnataka,_Bangalore_MMK.jpg|thumb|Attara Kacheri]] [[File:Government Museum Bangalore (48186334876).jpg|thumb|Government Museum]] [[File:Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.jpg|thumbnail|Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum]] * {{see | name=Attara Kacheri | alt= | url=http://hck.gov.in/ | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.978056 | long=77.5925 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q104755615 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A two-storey neoclassical red-painted stone and brick building, hosting the High Court of Karnataka. It was previously a secretariat of eighteen departments, built under the reign of king Devaraja Wadiyar II in 1701. The main structure of the building is surrounded on all sides by porticoes and verandahs. The entire building is surfaced with plaster and painted with red ochre. It houses a law museum the houses an original print of the Constitution of India, articles and documents related to the legal profession, seals, insignia and books. It also showcases the history of the Karnataka High Court and the development of courts over the ages. }} * {{see | name=General Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9813 | long=77.595 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q64212872 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Its first floor contains a philatelic museum. }} * {{see | name=Kingfisher Towers | alt= | url= | email= | address=UB City | lat=12.97283 | long=77.59701 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kingfisher Towers Bangalore.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content=Probably the most famous high-rise residential building in Bangalore, despite not being the tallest in the city. The top of the building is occupied by a mansion, which is one of the few instances of a "building atop a building" in India. }} * {{see | name=Government Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9747 | long=77.5958 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q372869 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Established in 1865, the museum is flanked by the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum and the Venkatappa Art Gallery. It is an archaeological museum with a rare collection of archaeological and geological artefacts, including old jewellery, sculpture, coins and inscriptions. The museum is also home to the Halmidi inscription, the earliest writing in Kannada (450 CE). }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address=22, Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-7:30PM | price=2 free exhibitions, 2 paid exhibitions (₹150 combined) | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This museum presents 4 exhibitions (2 free and 2 paid, ₹150) and contains a café, restaurant and library over 5 stories. It's well worth a visit and takes about 2 hours. }} * {{see | name=Seshadari Iyer Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9746 | long=77.5907 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-14 | content=A distinctive red sandstone building, hosting the State Central Library. }} * {{see | name=Venkatappa Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974236 | long=77.595302 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24950240 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Vidhana Soudha | alt=Karnataka Legislative Assembly | url= | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.979693 | long=77.590658 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q283257 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=This granite building houses the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. It was built during the tenure of K. Hanumanthaiya, Chief Minister of Mysore State (1951–1956). A marvel of neo-Dravidian architecture, and one of the most imposing buildings in India. One of the interesting features of this building are the grand stairs in its front. The steps of the grand stairs are {{m|62}} wide and {{m|21}} deep, giving direct access to the foyer of the first floor leading to an assembly chamber. The architecture comprises of Dravidian richly carved bases and capitals for pillars, deep friezes, kapotha cornices, chaithya arches, heavy pediments domical finials. At the same time, the construction uses modern designs, making use of present-day materials like steel, reinforced concrete, glass, and plastic. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the ground or the building. It can only be viewed from the road and footpath outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Vikasa Soudha | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.978318 | long=77.589297 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65109682 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=Located next to Vidhana Soudha, built in the same classic style. It was inaugurated in 2005. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the premises. It can only be viewed from outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum | alt=VITM | url=https://www.vismuseum.gov.in/ | email=vitmuseum@gmail.com | address= | lat=12.9751 | long=77.5964 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+91 80-22866200 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-5:30PM (closed in Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali) | price= | wikidata=Q3537014 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Contains many fun learning activities and exhibitions that can be enjoyed by adults and children. Most exhibits are based on simple science, but some have industrial applications. For general visitors entry fee is ₹40. Some groups receive discounts (organised school groups, BPL Category when showing valid BPL card, etc). Entry is free for military and police personnel in uniform, the physically challenged, and children below 5 years of age. There is also a 3D show costing an extra ₹25 (for general public). }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Gandhi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kumara Park E | lat=12.988117 | long=77.579826 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60771806 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The museum consists of a gallery with rare photographs of Mahatma Gandhi and letters written by him, a library and an auditorium. It serves as a venue for meetings organised on Gandhian values in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=J's La Quill Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakachitrakalaparishath.com/index.php#gallery | email= | address= | lat=12.989167 | long=77.578367 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6372843 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A visual art complex with 18 galleries, 13 of which carry a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures and folk art. The folk art collection showcases Mysore paintings and leather puppets. }} * {{see | name=Kempegowda Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.974092 | long=77.610754 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM–5PM (closed Su) | price=Free | wikidata=Q6387055 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government museum dedicated to Bangalore's founder Kempe Gowda. It is housed in the Mayo Hall, which was built in memory of Lord Mayo, the 4th Viceroy of India. This two-storey building is known for its ornate furniture and architecture. It is adorned by chandeliers, Greek cornices, Tuscan columns, stone arches, wooden floors and beautiful furnishings. The building itself offers a panoramic view of the city's Parade Grounds and Ulsoor Lake on one side, and the Bangalore Race Course and Brigade Grounds on the south. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A private art museum and a custodian to a collection of Indian art, textiles, photography, craft, and design objects spanning from the twelfth century to the present. MAP has more than 20,000 artworks, predominantly from the Indian subcontinent, in its collection that are organised into six departments: Modern and Contemporary Art, Photography, Living Traditions, Popular Culture, Pre-Modern Art and Textiles, Craft and Design. The collection includes works by Indian modernists, as well as Indian artists. In addition, the vast collection includes photographs and works by indigenous artists. }} * {{see | name=National Military Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.985521 | long=77.590458 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q18379547 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=A memorial-cum-museum dedicated to the personnel and families of martyrs who have died in the service of the nation. The collection in the museum include mockups of missiles like AKASH, Prithvi and BrahMos and rockets like Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). }} * {{see | name=National Gallery of Modern Art | alt=NGMA | url=http://ngmaindia.gov.in/ngma_bangaluru.asp | email= | address=49, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd | lat=12.989705 | long=77.58815 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa Su 11AM-7:30PM, Tu-F 11AM-6PM | price=₹20 for Indian citizens, ₹500 for foreigners | wikidata=Q17077814 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The National Gallery of Modern Art houses an auditorium, café, shop and exhibitions of modern and contemporary art in a beautiful building. The gallery organises and hosts talks on art and culture by speakers, seminars, film screenings as well as workshops and guided walks throughout the year. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Albert Victor Rd | lat=12.959494 | long=77.573572 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone=+91 80 2670 6836 | tollfree= | hours=daily 9:30AM-5:30PM | price=₹20 for Indians/SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens and ₹250 for foreigners (tickets only available online, you will need a phone with a QR code scanner and mobile data) | wikidata=Q7809034 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Dating to about 1790, it was the summer retreat for Tipu Sultan. The two-storey structure is made mostly out of wood with finely embellished balconies, pillars and arches. It contains a small museum with information on Tipu Sultan. }} ===Natural attractions=== * {{see | name=Lalbagh Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.95 | long=77.59 | directions=metro: {{station|Lalbagh|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q200711 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Built during the reigns of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, the botanical garden is home to numerous wild species of birds and other wildlife. The garden also has a lake adjoining a large rock is home to some water birds. Flower shows are conducted annually during the weeks of Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August) to educate the public about the variety of flora and foster public interest in plant conservation and cultivation. }} ===Places of worship=== [[File:Holy Trinity Church Bangalore Entrance.jpg|thumb|The entrance to the Holy Trinity Church]] ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Holy Trinity Church | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.972118 | long=77.620622 | directions=at Trinity circle at the east end of the MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5886431 | content=A major landmark of Central Bangalore. It was built in 1851, for the British Regiment stationed in Bangalore. Built-in the English Renaissance style, the church can accommodate 700 people and is regarded as the largest military church in southern India. It has a congregation of over 450 families. }} * {{see | name=Hudson Memorial Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hudson Circle | lat=12.967401 | long=77.587911 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24937604 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=Established in 1904 and named after missionary and scholar Rev. Josiah Hudson, who was responsible for opening Kannada schools in Bangalore Pete. The church attracts people of all faiths, especially in Thursdays and Sundays. }} * {{see | name=St. Andrew's Church | alt= | url=http://standrewschurch.org.in | email= | address=Cubbon Rd | lat=12.9792 | long=77.6042 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898472 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A Presbyterian church, consecrated in memory of Mary Elizabeth McGoun, wife of Col. Thomas McGoun of the 6th Madras Native Infantry. It is an example of Gothic architecture in the city, with a steeping roof of Mangalore tiles, a row of decorative ridge-tiles on the top, turreted parapets and gables, iron crested towers, intricately done plaster motifs, railings of cast iron, and pilasters and pavilions rising from the wing. }} * {{see | name=St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.parramattacathedral.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.992679 | long=77.611314 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7588004 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=St. John's Church | alt= | url=http://stjohnschurchbangalore.com/ | email= | address= | lat=12.9918 | long=77.613 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898476 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The fourth oldest Protestant church in the city, with a distinct red edifice and towering steeple, rising out of the leafy surroundings. There's a memorial in front of the church for its members who lost their lives in service of 'King and Empire', in World War I. }} * {{see | name=St. Mark's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.saintmarks.in | email= | address= | lat=12.97606 | long=77.60034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898479 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=The sole cathedral of Bangalore is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist. It is famous for its English Baroque architecture inspired by [[London]]'s St Paul's Cathedral. The entrance has elaborate woodwork with ornate carvings. The bell is the amongst the most well-maintained church bells in India. The stained glasswork adds to the beauty of the cathedral. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Basilica | alt= | url=http://www.stmarysbasilica.in/ | email= | address= | lat=12.984417 | long=77.60425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7590089 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content=The oldest church in Bangalore, and the only church in the state which has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities held during the St. Mary's Feast in the month of September each year, an event that attracts devotees from in and around Bangalore. The basilica is built in Gothic style with arches, ornamental motifs and stained glass windows. Multiple columns and tall spires of the basilica can be seen from quite a distance. The stained glass windows were removed during World War II and were subsequently restored in 1947. }} ====Temples==== * {{see | name=Dharmaraya Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.965444 | long=77.583389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2065042 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=One of the oldest temples of Bangalore and also the smallest, the Temple has existed since the times of Kempe Gowda. It is on S.P. Road close to Corporation Circle, behind the LIC building. This temple is famous for the Annual Karaga Festival held every summer. The Presiding Deity is Dharmaraya (Yudishthira) & Consort Draupadi, making it a unique one of its kind. }} * {{see | name=Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.959524 | long=77.574305 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}}, next to Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6433914 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A fine example of Dravidian architecture, built by Maharaja Chikkadevaraya Wodeyar. }} * {{see | name=Maha Bodhi Society Temple | url= | email= | address=No. 14, Kalidas Road, Gandhi Nagar | lat=12.97817 | long=77.58069 | directions=northwest rim of Freedom Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at [[Bodh Gaya]]. The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English. }} * {{see | name=Someshwara Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Halasuru | lat=12.975556 | long=77.623889 | directions=close to Halasuru Police station; metro: {{station|Halasuru|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q16891973 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples of the city. The inner sanctum sanctorum is said to have been built in the 8th century by the Cholas, who ruled this place, the outer Praharam during the Hoysalas of the 11th century, while the front hall construction and the Gopuram during the Vijayanagar Empire of the 15th century. The structure resembles the various changes the temple has gone through during the period, with major additions and renovations done to preserve the temple. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Bangalore Race Course | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98235 | long=77.58094 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{do | name=Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium | alt= | url=http://www.taralaya.org/ | email=info@taralaya.org | address=Bangalore Association for Science Education, Sri T. Choudaiah Road, High Grounds | lat=12.98486 | long=77.58954 | directions=opposite Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, Near Raj Bhavan | phone=+91 80-22379725 | tollfree= | hours=12:30-4:30PM (closed M and second Th) | price=₹35 for adults and ₹20 for school students and children (up to 16 years), children below 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky-Theatre | wikidata=Q6987903 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A very good planetarium for adults and children alike. Shows are offered in Kannada and English. Each show is about 30 minutes long. There are about 200 seats available for each show. A ticket can be used only for the show mentioned on the ticket, and is non-refundable if you miss that show. }} * {{do | name=Sir Puttanna Chetty Town Hall | alt=Bangalore Town Hall | url= | email= | address=112 JC Road | lat=12.96376 | long=77.58579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4855080 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A neoclassical building. The structure features a flight of steps leading to the entrance porch resting on Tuscan columns with identical columns extending on either sides. The auditorium has two floors with a total capacity of 810 seats. }} * {{do | name=Urvashi Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lalbagh Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Lalbagh Main gate & MTR | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-08 | content=A cool remodified theatre that allows a 1st hand experience in watching movies. One of the oldest theatres and important landmark of the City }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Chitra Santhe (Paintings market) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.99053 | long=77.58234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An annual exhibition, held on the first Sunday of every year in January, the Chitra Santhe on Kumara Krupa Road (near Golf Course) brings together artists from all across Karnataka. Paintings, pottery, and sculpture are all on an exhibition-cum-sale. The road is closed to traffic on that day, making it possible to have a leisurely stroll, admiring and buying the items. Prices range from ₹100-20,000. Bargaining is recommended, but not too hard. Pay a fair price. (Credit cards and foreign currency are rarely accepted, so carry sufficient cash in Indian currency). }} * {{do | name=Flower Show (Biannual) | alt= | url= | email= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 9AM to 5PM | price= ₹50 entry fees | content=A bi-annual affair at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, during the Independence Day (August 15th) & Republic Day (January 26th). Various companies display their floral exhibits in this period, normally held from a week before the above-mentioned days. The main epicentre would be a Rose arrangement representing a theme, or a heritage structure, which attracts major crowd from around Bangalore. }} * {{do | name=Mango Mela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM to 5PM | price=₹30 entry fees | content=An annual affair, at the beginning of summer, the season for the king of fruits. Normally, mangoes (raw & ripe), cultivated in Bangalore Rural and Ramanagara, as well as in neighbouring Kolar and Chikballapur, are brought and kept for show as well as sale during this period, at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. A must-visit for mango fans. }} ===Parks and stadiums=== * {{do | name=Cubbon Park | alt=Sri Chamarajendra Udyanavana | url=http://www.horticulture.kar.nic.in/cubbon.htm | email= | address= | lat=12.975 | long=77.593333 | directions=opposite to Chinnaswamy Stadium, {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3633776 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A nice forested area in the city centre. The entrance from Queen's Statue forms the tourist attraction owing to the presence of the Government Aquarium and Bal Bhavan, a play area for kids. '''Puttaani Express''' a small toy train for kids, runs inside the Bal Bhavan, attracting kids from far and near. For attractions around the park, see the [[#Cubbon Park area|Cubbon Park area]] subsection of See. }} * {{do | name=Freedom Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.977272 | long=77.581844 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5500576 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A park built on the grounds of a prison. It is also used for public protests. }} * {{do | name=M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat=12.978806 | long=77.599556 | directions={{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+90 80 4015 4015 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1861907 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=With a capacity of 40,000, this is the home of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has a large and loud following. The IPL season typically is from March to May every year, matches are played in the evenings and last around 3 hours. Scour the daily newspapers for ticket information - tickets sell out a week before. }} * {{do | name=Sree Kanteerava Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.969556 | long=77.593469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7585638 | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=A multi-purpose stadium with a running track, a volleyball court, and two outdoor rock-climbing walls. }} * {{do | name=Ulsoor Lake | alt=Halasuru lake | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.981472 | long=77.619214 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30587793 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore, with several islands. There's a watch tower with a Chinese bell on the lake. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=SPA.ce | alt= | url=http://www.spacethespa.com | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by an expat Brit. Offers a variety of massages, scrubs, and facials. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française de Bangalore | alt= | url=http://bangalore.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Thimmaiah Rd, Kaverappa Layout | lat=12.991477 | long=77.596851 | directions= | phone=+91 7899562404 | tollfree= | hours=9:30AM&ndash;5:30PM (closed S) | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Offers French language courses. }} ==Buy== * The '''UB City''' and '''Vittal Mallya Road''' are Page-3 shopping areas. You'll find brands like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Kimaya in the UB City. Vittal Mallya Road has stores like '''The Collective''' which is a shop only for men. Armani, Versace, Boss, you name it, they have it. There's even Canary Blue and Esprit on the same road. * {{buy | name=Brigade Road/M.G. Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97520 | long=77.60817 | directions=metro: {{station|MG Road|purple}} right next to the intersection of both roads | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The most popular place for tourists. These two roads are filled with shops of every kind, whether it be traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear (this is especially true for Brigade Road). Brigade Road, where British soldiers used to buy their necessities, is now the centre of yuppie Bangalore; you'll see hordes of college students on the road any time of day or night. Stores on Brigade Road include: Planet M (a huge music store with everything), Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Phillipe, Pepe Jeans, Levis, Lee, SanFrisco Jeans, Nike, and Titan (great Indian made watches). There are also many eateries on Brigade road and on the side roads that lead off it. Fast food outlets include KFC (right at the entrance), Pizza Hut (at the other end of the road), and many cafes including the Indian coffee chain Cafe Coffee Day. Also includes a tattoo studio. M.G. Road is short for Mahatma Gandhi road. }} * {{buy | name=Commercial Street | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98219 | long=77.60824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A legacy of the British is another shopping mecca that sells international brands (similar to Brigade road) alongside locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. In addition, it is famous for its body piercing centres. The price of goods here is very competitive and it is a great place to pick a bargain. }} * {{buy | name=Krishna Rajendra Market | alt=KR Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.96563 | long=77.57636 | directions=metro: {{station|KR Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The city's largest vegetable and fruit market. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Gangarams Book Bureau | alt= | url=http://gangaramsbookbureau.com/ | email=gangaramsinternational@gmail.com | address=#3, Church Street, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-11 | content=Since 1977, a destination for booklovers with books in a diverse range from academic, professional and technical to fiction and non-fiction. }} * {{buy | name=Blossoms | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=parallel to MG Rd and nearby Coconut Grove Restaurant | phone=+91 80 255 9733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are 3 full floors of those rare, hard to find old books. All 2nd hand, good condition and at low rates. }} * {{buy | name=The Bookworm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Church Street, opposite Starbucks | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a small used book store. Good bargains on used and new books are available here. }} * {{buy | name=Crossword | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=ACR Towers, opposite Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558 2411-16 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks, music and movie section, children's section and a coffee shop. A wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop. }} * {{buy | name=Elloor Library | url= | email= | address=Blue Cross Chambers, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=close to Commercial St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Requires membership which includes a deposit. }} * {{buy | name=Gangarams Mg road | url= | email=gangarams@vsnl.com | address=Triumph Tower, 2nd Floor, 48 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite High Gates Hotel and Mainland China; Church Street is parallel to Mahatma Gandhi ("MG") Road | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa | price= | content=A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works. }} * {{buy | name=Goobes Book Republic | url=http://www.goobes.wordpress.com | email=goobesbookrepublic@gmail.com | address=46-1-1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=in the basement of Church Street Inn, Budget Hotel, near MG Rd | phone=+91 80 4112 4956 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Secondhand and new books on a wide variety of subjects and a very cost effective library option and buy back used books. }} * {{buy | name=Higginbothams | alt= | url= | email= | address=68 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7359, +91 80 2558 6574 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This bookstore has a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels. }} * {{buy | name=Premier Book Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address=46/1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone=+91 80 2558 8570 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down. This store however, will shut down shortly. }} * {{buy | name=Sapna Book House | url=http://www.sapnaonline.com/ | email= | address=3rd Main Rd, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Walking distance from Majestic Bus stand | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a large bookstore, they also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery. }} * {{buy | name=Select Bookshop | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd Behind Curzon Court Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books. }} * {{buy | name=The Strand book stall | alt= | url=http://www.strandbookstall.com/ | email= | address=Dickenson Rd | lat= | long= | directions=1st Floor, Manipal Centre | phone=+91 80 2558 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Mahendra Textiles | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4124 9900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sarees and dress materials from Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kerala and Sri Lanka. }} * {{buy | name=Marmalade | alt= | url= | email= | address=Magrath Rd | lat= | long= | directions=adj to Spratt Salon; left before Coffee Day, on Brigade Rd Extn | phone=+91 80 4122 1814 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of affordable young designer wear. }} * {{buy | name=Native Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=behind Museum Rd Post Office, Museum Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of interesting merchandise, crafts made by NGOs, c/o The Only Place Restaurant. }} * {{buy | name=One G | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4123 1231 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(Jewellery) Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Rd. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of [[Mysore]] sandalwood are an especially good buy. }} * {{buy | name=Central Cottage Industries Emporium | alt=CCIE | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], Bangalore and [[Chennai]]. }} * {{buy | name=Chandi - The Divine Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Shop No. 12, First Floor, Public Utility Building | phone=+91 80 4112 3590, +91 80 4112 3610 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialising in Indian divine figures in all mediums. Claims to have the biggest collection of Ganeshas in town. High-quality and locally-priced wares, supposedly no pushy salesmanship. }} * {{buy | name=Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialises in Karnataka handicraft. }} ===Jewellery=== * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons | alt=Diamond Flagship Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=2-1 Main Cross Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Safina Plaza | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content={{convert|14000|ft2}} dedicated to the finest gold and diamond jewellery, spread over two floors. }} * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons-The Heritage Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=35 & 36 Commercial St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Dedicated to gold and silver. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Garuda Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97004 | long=77.60968 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads. }} * {{buy | name=Safina Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97977 | long=77.60696 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The sale capital of Bangalore, on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi). }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Annapoorna | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ulsoor | lat= | long= | directions=near Sai Baba Temple in Ulsoor. Need to get down at Ulsoor police station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pure vegetarian food in Tamil style. }} * {{eat | name=Bheemas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you have the penchant for spice this place is meant for you. }} * {{eat | name=I-Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Park, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Expensive, but arguably the best Italian food in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kudla | alt= | url=http://www.ramanashree.com/ | email= | address=Ramanashree Comforts, Richmond Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For seafood, serves excellent dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Oh! Calcutta | alt= | url= | email= | address=St Mark's Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Part of a chain of restaurants across the country, and the best Bengali food available in the city albeit pricier than the other options. }} * {{eat | name=Pabrai's Fresh and Naturalle Ice Cream | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood Street, Ashok Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6453 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Palms | alt= | url= | email= | address=33 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=at the Highgates Hotel | phone=+91 80 2559 7172 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Coorgi, and Malabari style. (shut for renovations) }} * {{eat | name=Queens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church Street, opposite Amoeba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small restaurant but great food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=RRs | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A renovation of the vintage RRs, the fun doubles here with the double storeyed restaurant, one serving Andhra and the other Hyderabadi cuisines. There's also alcohol, all the more reason to indulge on a Saturday afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Tijouri | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Atria, Palace Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2220 5205 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Delicacy| url= | email= | address=105 Dickenson's road, Manipal Centre| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Majestic | url= | email= | address=(''next to Fkcci Bldg''), KG Rd| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Anupams Coastal Express | url= | email= | address=Shivananda Circle | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They make fantastic fish dishes. Neer Dosa with Chicken Pulimunchi, kori roti and chicken ghee roast are some things you really cannot miss. }} * {{eat | name=Bobby-da-Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Lavanya Theatre, St John's Road, Near Ulsoor | lat=12.98369 | long=77.61391 | directions= | phone=+91 96 6367 8382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-3:45PM, 7:30PM-11PM | price= | content=The food is good (albeit slightly oily). It basically serves paranthas (with lots of butter), chaach, kheer and a number of side dishes (most notable being their shahi paneer and rajma). You may have to wait for a while in case it is full. So it's better to go slightly early, noon for lunch and 7:30PM for dinner to avoid rush). }} * {{eat | name=Coconut Grove | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97526 | long=77.60433 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Appams and Kerala parottas with a chicken sauce dish. Their lunch offer for ₹80 is also really good. A pretty good choice for reasonably priced quality seafood. Coco-Grove the outdoor 'beer cafe' extension is also worth a look. }} * {{eat | name=Fanoos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=adjoining Johnson Market, off Brigade Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the joints for getting sheekh (beef) rolls in Bangalore. They come in various sizes- sheekh roll, sheekh jumbo, sheekh mambo, sheekh rambo and sheekh sambo- the latter of which is almost 2 in thick. There are other options like chicken, mutton and paneer rolls as well as kababs and shawarma. ₹30-100 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Indian Coffee House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97474 | long=77.60533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=KC Das | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97588 | long=77.60179 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Bengali sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Kohinoor | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves very reasonably priced Kerala Muslim style food. }} * {{eat | name=Lake View Milk Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent ice creams, club sandwiches and burgers. }} * {{eat | name=Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) | alt= | url= | email= | address=11 Lal Bagh Rd | lat=12.9551857 | long=77.58556020000003 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2222 0022, +91 80 22221706 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-10-27| content=One of the very old traditional breakfast places in Bangalore. There are a few people who have been having their breakfast at MTR every day for the past 15 years. Closed between 2:45-3:30PM. Expect a long wait on weekends. Traditional 12-course Karnataka lunches are also available here for around ₹90 per head. Advance reservations recommended at weekends. Rava idlis, dosas and bisi bele bath are excellent. It has maintained its quality over the years and is very famous. It is on the road perpendicular to Lal bagh main gate. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Alibaba Cafe & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 7163 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Frazer Town. Arabian, Persian and Bhatkali cuisine described as "An Arabian Lake in the Indian Ocean". A themed restaurant with the feel of Arabia, Persia and India. The "Shaiya Biryani" of the Bhatkali cuisine, the Al faham chicken barbecue out of the Arabian cuisine and the chicken Jujeh kabab from the Persian cuisine are all recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Caesar's Multi Cuisine Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahalakshmi Chambers, 9/2, MG Rd. | lat= | long= | directions=beside HSBC bank opposite ING Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6:30PM–11:30PM | price= | content=Indian and continental food. Classic environment. The ambience is good, though the food is a tad expensive. Parking is a problem. }} * {{eat | name=Canopy | url= | email= | address=PU Building, M.G. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open air, multi-cuisine North-Indian food. Cooking techniques date back to the independence era offering the unique taste. Great outdoor ambiance in the middle of the central business district. ₹125-750 }} * {{eat | name=Ebony | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=on the 13th floor of the tallest building on MG Rd, Utility building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Stylish eatery with excellent evening views of the city. Service is a bit slow, but the ambiance makes it worth the wait. Book ahead for a terrace seat. ₹200-400 }} * {{eat | name=Koshy's | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat=12.97579 | long=77.60147 | directions=Below Church St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Bangalore institution, serving a smattering of Western favorites (like fish and chips) along with the usual South Indian fare in a bohemian-for-India atmosphere. On weekends, they serve up greasy Western-style breakfast, including omelettes and Bombay (i.e, French) Toast. Appam and stew is their Sunday breakfast special and a must eat. Turn right at the entrance for the more expensive (and decidedly less charming) A/C room. ₹50-200. Smoky, with sluggish service, and not particularly clean Koshy's still has plenty of character and history but its getting harder to justify their skyrocketing prices. }} * {{eat | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hot coffee to chilled Kingfisher beer on the tap awesome cocktails and even hand rolled Havana cigars. Salads, sandwiches, jacket baked potatoes to entrees. LRC also offers an Oxy Bar, Bangalore's first. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=Near Museum Rd | phone=+91 80 2227 7722, +91 90 2224 5864 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Upscale Chinese food. Good, fairly authentic food and excellent service. Serves a decent lunch buffet. Also new outlet on 100ft Road, Indiranagar. ₹500-800. }} * {{eat | name=Pinxx | url= | email= | address=Manipal centre | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place for Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. ₹200-400 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Samarkand | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gem Plaza, 66, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=East of Central St | phone=+91 80 4111 3366 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=North West frontier food (i.e., kebabs, Afghani) in a kitschy atmosphere but the food is great. You will need to book on weekends. ₹300-600. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Blue Ginger | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/restaurants/blue-ginger/ | email= | address=Taj West End | lat= | long= | directions=just next door to Blue Bar | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=High-end Vietnamese restaurant with a beautiful setting and excellent food. }} * {{eat | name=Graze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Taj Residency, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has some of the best creative continental you will get in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=I.Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Opposite 1 MG, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has the best Italian food in town }} * {{eat | name=Karavalli | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at the Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558-4545 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine. Best Indian food you will get when visiting BLR. }} * {{eat | name=Monsoon | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Next to Taj Residency | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24 hr cafe with a variety of Continental Dishes, Indian, Southeast Asian and Mediterranean. Ideal location for private parties. }} * {{eat | name=Olive Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A long time favourite that will serve you Italian meats and cheese in a nice setting, this is still among Bangalore's best. }} * {{eat | name=The Raj Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=ITC Windsor Manor, Golf Course Rd. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24/7 restaurant that offers the taste of the British Raj. Anglo-Lucknowi, Far East and Continental cuisine is served. Amongst the best in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=Sunny's | alt= | url= | email= | address=34 Vittal Mallya Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at Embassy Diamante | phone=+91 80 5132-9366, +91 80 5132-9391 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=About ₹1,200 for a 3-course meal for two, excluding drinks | content=Among the best restaurants in Bangalore. Try the starters, salads and pasta is fine here. Hot sandwiches for lunch. Also has a branch at Indira Nagar. }} * {{drink | name=Vaayu | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th floor, Eve Mall, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has comfortable lounge seating, and is open air, giving some nice views over the city. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Café Coffee Day | alt= | url=http://www.cafecoffeeday.com | email= | address= | lat=12.97130 | long=77.60712 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4001 2345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popularly known as CCD. Established in 1996, at Brigade Road, Bangalore, the chain has over 1,000 cafes throughout India. It is found all over Bangalore. }} * {{drink | name=Coffee Workers Co-op | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St's Brigade Gardens | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable Bangalore institution, with waiters in traditional uniforms and customers slowly savoring the age-old tradition of coffee drinking - though there are just two choices of coffee: black or white. Have some delightful "masala dosa" here. }} * {{drink | name=Java City | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pleasant old Bangalore atmosphere. Offers a wide variety of tea, coffee from all over the world including pizza, pasta, pastries, cookies, you name it they have it plus you get to see a unique sense of humor in their menu and on the walls. On Saturday and Sunday evenings, there is live music, rock and guitar. This place is simple, expatriate friendly and not at all pricy. There is another Java City near Lavelle Road. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Bull n Bush | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500 cover charge | content=Plays hip hop, house and occasionally trance. }} * {{drink | name=The Bunker | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Carpe Diem | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's a Power Metal haven. }} * {{drink | name=Ego's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Castle Street, off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10AM-11:30PM | price= | content=The latest watering hole in Bangalore. Rock music across the board screened on large plasma panels; every song can not only be heard but seen as well. Coffee, Kingfisher beer, cocktails, food and Bangalore's first oxy bar. }} * {{drink | name=New Night Watchman | alt= | url= | email= | address=Corner of Church Street and Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Little bit dingy but helpful bar staff - satellite TV has the Australia Network so you can watch Rugby Union and AFL games. }} * {{drink | name=Pecos | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/PECOS.Pubs | email= | address=Rest House Rd (''Off Brigade Road'') | lat=12.97373 | long=77.60717 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4090 5462, +91 944 982 7428 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=60s retro pub with a mural of Jerry Garcia. Often crowded on all 3 floors, including the pleasant roof-top seating area. Free popcorn with every pitcher of beer. Cards are available for frequent customers which make every tenth pitcher of beer free, but you may have to ask several times in order to acquire one and to get it updated. }} * {{drink | name=Sparks | alt= | url= | email= | address=Brigade Road Extension, next to Brigade Towers | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Styx | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=next to Cauvery Handicrafts on MG Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They put the "Heavy" in heavy metal! }} * {{drink | name=Sultanate of Swing | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free entry | content=Mainly plays Rock, Retro, Heavy Metal and has a Video DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Tavern at The Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Windsor Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vasanth Nagar (''off Mount Carmel's in Kodava Samaja Building'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small place which serves only beer, good food and is nice for a family outing. But only limited tables. }} * {{drink | name=Zeus | url= | email= | address=#174 2nd Floor Manohar Crest, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=above Health n Glow | phone=+91 80 2532 3355 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11:30PM | price= | content=Sports bar and lounge. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=13th Floor | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barton Centre, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Make a reservation. amazing view from the 13th floor }} * {{drink | name=Arbor Brewing Company | alt=ABC | url=https://www.arborbrewing.in/ | email=info@arborbrewing.in | address=8 Magrath Rd, Allied Grande Plaza, Ashok Nagar | lat=12.97027 | long=77.61089 | directions=Opp. Garuda Mall, Magrath Rd | phone=+91 80501 44477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon to 12:30AM | price= | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=Microbrewery that serves Belgian Triple, Smooth Criminal and Brassiere Blonde. Some of the smoothest beers in town and serves pub-style food. Has a nice vibe though it gets crowded during the weekend. }} * {{drink | name=Aura | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Biere Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vittal Mallya Rd on Lavelle Road, (''opp Sunny's''). | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bangalore’s first craft brewery and a popular place for beer lovers. }} * {{drink | name=Blue Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=West End, Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=On weekends you need to buy drink-tickets for ₹1,500 to enter. | content=Excellent drinks if you make sure Joel makes them. Officially they have a couple's only policy. Spontaneous dancing likely next to the bar. }} * {{drink | name=Hint | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th Floor, Bangalore Central, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Tuesdays is ladies night (couples permitted). }} * {{drink | name=iBar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Kosmo (Formerly Cosmo Village) | alt= | url= | email= | address=81 Ali Askar Road Cross (''Off Cunningham Road'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=3 separate areas including a terrace. This nightclub is a remodeled colonial villa on a quiet lane, with excellent DJs and expensive drinks, and attracts a wealthy clientele. }} * {{drink | name=Taika | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St. (''Off Brigade Rd'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Usually open past midnight and has a huge dance floor. 3 bars and a lounge area. Entrance varies each night. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Citizen Lodge | url= | email= | address=Lady Curzon Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Bowring Hospital, about {{km|1}} from MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double non-A/C room costs around from ₹850 | content=Bare bones motel-style establishment is well located but leaves much to be desired in terms of cleanliness and overall quality. }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel 29th Church's Inn | alt = formerly Church Street Inn | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-bangalore/fabhotel-29th-church-inn-mg-road.html | email= | address=#29th Church Street, off M.G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 70424 24242 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Manju Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22200679 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Naga Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41220539 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Omshakthi palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 26707927 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Retirement Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Central Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-05-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Mount Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakkal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41580000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Royal Regency Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.royalregencylodge.com | email= | address=S. C. Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Movieland theater | phone=+91 80 4113 0202 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹1500? | content=Clean rooms and convenient to the city’s local transports like the City bus station and the City Railway Station. }} * {{sleep | name=T.A.P. Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road Avenue Road; cross near Abhinay Theatre & Menaka Theatre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22280522 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=U. G. Classic | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=UG Deluxe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Majestic, Thulsi Thotta | lat= | long= | directions=stop near the small road opposite Upparpet Police station and next to Navaruchi restaurant, then take right and then immediate left on a small lane and at the end of it take right and you will see the lodge on your right | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=A/C rooms - ₹750, Non-A/C rooms - ₹550 | content=You may want to take an auto instead of walking down if you are going after a rainy day as your shoes will get dirty. }} * {{sleep | name=Vardhaman Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ganesh Lodge Building OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026707552 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹320 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=YMCA | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nrupathunga Rd | lat=12.97109 | long=77.58765 | directions=Near Cubbon Park | phone=+91 80 2221 1848 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=No-frills hotel. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Ajantha | alt= | url=http://hotelajantha.in/ | email=reservation@hotelajantha.in | address=22 Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 4321 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Sgl/dbl from ₹1500/₹1900, Cottage A/C ₹2700 | content=Good simple hotel with a vegetarian restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western The Capitol | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raj Bhavan Rd | lat=12.98246 | long=77.59450 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2228 1234, +91 80 2228 1800 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Fortune Park JP Celestial | url=http://www.fortunehotels.in/hotel/Bengaluru-Fortune_Park_JP_Celestial.aspx | email= | address=Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4044-1234 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bangalore Gate | alt=res@bangaloregate.com | url=http://www.hotelbangaloregate.com/ | email=book@hotelbangaloregate.com | address=9 and 12, Gajanana Towers, K G Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 99 4533 3999 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout= noon | price=₹3,600-4,800 | content=Executive, superior and premium rooms. All rooms are A/C with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. 24-hour room service, 2 restaurants, ample car parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komfort Terraces | alt= | url=http://komfortgrouphotels.com/ | email= | address=No 301, 3rd floor, Bluemoon Complex M G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4009 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout=noon | price=₹2381 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel St. Marks | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vrindavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=off MG Rd and very near to MG. Rd/Brigade Rd junction | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Nice hotel with great South Indian food. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Woodlands | alt= | url= | email= | address=No 5, Rajaram Mohan Roy Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Richmond Circle | phone=+91 80 2222 5111 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Very clean hotel, great views of the city, delicious free South Indian breakfast buffet for ₹3,400 per night for an A/C double (two single beds pushed together). Nice location for exploring the city. Long walk to M.G. Road, Garuda Mall, and Commercial Street. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Heritage Block, the Taj West End, Bangalore.jpg|thumb|Taj West End]] * {{sleep | name=Chancery Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96582 | long=77.59868 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=About $200 | content=Nice business hotel, good service and food }} * {{sleep | name=The Gateway Hotel, Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/gateway/residency-road-bangalore/ | email=gateway.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=66, Residency Road | lat=12.976750 | long=77.575280 | directions= | phone=+91 8066604545 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-21 | content=The Gateway Hotel Bengaluru is among the top hotels in the city and has won the National Tourism Award for three years in a row. }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Gardenia | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcgardenia-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96697 | long=77.59556 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2211 9898 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402720 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Windsor | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcwindsor-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=25, Golf Course Rd | lat=12.99414 | long=77.58597 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2226 9898 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹17,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru | alt= | url= | email= | address=24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd | lat=12.97245 | long=77.59479 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6718-9999 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹15,340-27,140 | wikidata=Q111402713 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lalit Ashok Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.nivalink.com/grandbangalore/ | email=grandashok@nivalink.com | address=Kumara Krupa High Grounds | lat=12.99225 | long=77.58188 | directions= | phone=+91 80 22 2404 2211 9 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi | alt= | url=http://www.oberoibangalore.com/index.asp?leftinfo=1&leftitem=1 | email= | address=37-39 MG Rd | lat=12.97332 | long=77.618164 | directions= | phone=+91 80 25585858 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402705 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com/banglore_home.htm | email=resv.blr@theparkhotels.com | address=14/7 MG Rd | lat=12.97391 | long=77.61961 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402703 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Bengaluru City Center | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-bengaluru-city-center | email= | address= | lat=12.976319 | long=77.61953 | directions= | phone=+91 80 62210103 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402698 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Taj MG Road | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-mgroad-bengaluru/ | email=reservations.mgroad@tajhotels.com | address=41/3 MG Rd | lat=12.97328 | long=77.61985 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6660-4444 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402704 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj West End | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/ | email=westend.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=Race Course Rd | lat=12.98 | long=77.58 | directions= | phone=+91 80 5660-5660 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64343188 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Nestled amidst 20 acres of flora and defined by its illustrious heritage and colonial charm. Started by the Bronsons as a 10-room inn in 1887, it now has 117 magnificent rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Bengaluru Residency Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9725 | long=77.60857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402710 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} f86iorimp7l9wg6w8pn8tp7fgsxj50u 5091197 5091196 2025-07-11T05:39:38Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Museums and galleries */ Updated listing for Museum of Art & Photography 5091197 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=Central Bangalore}} '''Central Bangalore''' is the heart of the city. It contains the original mud fort, the old neighbourhoods and the British-era cantonment. For a long time, it ''was'' the city, or rather the agglomeration of two cities: Bangalore Pete and Bangalore Cantonment. The older Pete has narrow alleys and dense living, while the newer Cantonment has wide streets and more greenery. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.975|77.598|width=700|height=550|zoom=14|name=Map of Central Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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===By metro=== The '''Purple Line''' {{rint|bangalore|purple}} serves the entire Central Bangalore east-west, from Mahatma Gandhi Road to KSR station. The '''Green Line''' {{rint|bangalore|green}} runs across the district north-south, serving Majestic, Chickpet and KR Market. Majestic is the interchange of Purple and Green lines. ==See== [[File:Tipu Palace bangalore.JPG|thumb|Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.962875 | long=77.575956 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q4855049 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Built in 1537. A small part with massive granite walls, big gates, a dungeon and a small Ganesha temple is still intact. Check out the stone carving high up on the wall to your left after entering the massive wooden door. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Centre | alt=Visvesvaraya Towers | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.982425 | long=77.595785 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130215606 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government office complex, built on the site of the house of Sir M. Visvesvaraya after his death. Initially constructed for the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), it was later bought by the state government to house government offices. The brutalist architecture of this high-rise building at Cubbon Park area stands in sharp contrast to the neoclassical architecture of Vidhana Soudha, Attara Kacheri and the General Post Office. The general public is not allowed into the premises, unless they have an appointment at one of the offices. }} ===Cubbon Park area=== [[File:High_Court_of_Karnataka,_Bangalore_MMK.jpg|thumb|Attara Kacheri]] [[File:Government Museum Bangalore (48186334876).jpg|thumb|Government Museum]] [[File:Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.jpg|thumbnail|Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum]] * {{see | name=Attara Kacheri | alt= | url=http://hck.gov.in/ | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.978056 | long=77.5925 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q104755615 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A two-storey neoclassical red-painted stone and brick building, hosting the High Court of Karnataka. It was previously a secretariat of eighteen departments, built under the reign of king Devaraja Wadiyar II in 1701. The main structure of the building is surrounded on all sides by porticoes and verandahs. The entire building is surfaced with plaster and painted with red ochre. It houses a law museum the houses an original print of the Constitution of India, articles and documents related to the legal profession, seals, insignia and books. It also showcases the history of the Karnataka High Court and the development of courts over the ages. }} * {{see | name=General Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9813 | long=77.595 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q64212872 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Its first floor contains a philatelic museum. }} * {{see | name=Kingfisher Towers | alt= | url= | email= | address=UB City | lat=12.97283 | long=77.59701 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kingfisher Towers Bangalore.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content=Probably the most famous high-rise residential building in Bangalore, despite not being the tallest in the city. The top of the building is occupied by a mansion, which is one of the few instances of a "building atop a building" in India. }} * {{see | name=Government Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9747 | long=77.5958 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q372869 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Established in 1865, the museum is flanked by the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum and the Venkatappa Art Gallery. It is an archaeological museum with a rare collection of archaeological and geological artefacts, including old jewellery, sculpture, coins and inscriptions. The museum is also home to the Halmidi inscription, the earliest writing in Kannada (450 CE). }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address=22, Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-7:30PM | price=2 free exhibitions, 2 paid exhibitions (₹150 combined) | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This museum presents 4 exhibitions (2 free and 2 paid, ₹150) and contains a café, restaurant and library over 5 stories. It's well worth a visit and takes about 2 hours. }} * {{see | name=Seshadari Iyer Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9746 | long=77.5907 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-14 | content=A distinctive red sandstone building, hosting the State Central Library. }} * {{see | name=Venkatappa Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974236 | long=77.595302 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24950240 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Vidhana Soudha | alt=Karnataka Legislative Assembly | url= | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.979693 | long=77.590658 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q283257 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=This granite building houses the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. It was built during the tenure of K. Hanumanthaiya, Chief Minister of Mysore State (1951–1956). A marvel of neo-Dravidian architecture, and one of the most imposing buildings in India. One of the interesting features of this building are the grand stairs in its front. The steps of the grand stairs are {{m|62}} wide and {{m|21}} deep, giving direct access to the foyer of the first floor leading to an assembly chamber. The architecture comprises of Dravidian richly carved bases and capitals for pillars, deep friezes, kapotha cornices, chaithya arches, heavy pediments domical finials. At the same time, the construction uses modern designs, making use of present-day materials like steel, reinforced concrete, glass, and plastic. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the ground or the building. It can only be viewed from the road and footpath outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Vikasa Soudha | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.978318 | long=77.589297 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65109682 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=Located next to Vidhana Soudha, built in the same classic style. It was inaugurated in 2005. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the premises. It can only be viewed from outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum | alt=VITM | url=https://www.vismuseum.gov.in/ | email=vitmuseum@gmail.com | address= | lat=12.9751 | long=77.5964 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+91 80-22866200 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-5:30PM (closed in Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali) | price= | wikidata=Q3537014 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Contains many fun learning activities and exhibitions that can be enjoyed by adults and children. Most exhibits are based on simple science, but some have industrial applications. For general visitors entry fee is ₹40. Some groups receive discounts (organised school groups, BPL Category when showing valid BPL card, etc). Entry is free for military and police personnel in uniform, the physically challenged, and children below 5 years of age. There is also a 3D show costing an extra ₹25 (for general public). }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Gandhi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kumara Park E | lat=12.988117 | long=77.579826 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60771806 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The museum consists of a gallery with rare photographs of Mahatma Gandhi and letters written by him, a library and an auditorium. It serves as a venue for meetings organised on Gandhian values in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=J's La Quill Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakachitrakalaparishath.com/index.php#gallery | email= | address= | lat=12.989167 | long=77.578367 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6372843 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A visual art complex with 18 galleries, 13 of which carry a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures and folk art. The folk art collection showcases Mysore paintings and leather puppets. }} * {{see | name=Kempegowda Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.974092 | long=77.610754 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM–5PM (closed Su) | price=Free | wikidata=Q6387055 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government museum dedicated to Bangalore's founder Kempe Gowda. It is housed in the Mayo Hall, which was built in memory of Lord Mayo, the 4th Viceroy of India. This two-storey building is known for its ornate furniture and architecture. It is adorned by chandeliers, Greek cornices, Tuscan columns, stone arches, wooden floors and beautiful furnishings. The building itself offers a panoramic view of the city's Parade Grounds and Ulsoor Lake on one side, and the Bangalore Race Course and Brigade Grounds on the south. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A private art museum and a custodian to a collection of Indian art, textiles, photography, craft, and design objects spanning from the twelfth century to the present. MAP has more than 20,000 artworks, predominantly from the Indian subcontinent, in its collection that are organised into six departments: Modern and Contemporary Art, Photography, Living Traditions, Popular Culture, Pre-Modern Art and Textiles, Craft and Design. The collection includes works by Indian modernists, as well as Indian artists. In addition, the vast collection includes photographs and works by indigenous artists. }} * {{see | name=National Military Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.985521 | long=77.590458 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q18379547 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=A memorial-cum-museum dedicated to the personnel and families of martyrs who have died in the service of the nation. The collection in the museum include mockups of missiles like AKASH, Prithvi and BrahMos and rockets like Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). }} * {{see | name=National Gallery of Modern Art | alt=NGMA | url=http://ngmaindia.gov.in/ngma_bangaluru.asp | email= | address=49, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd | lat=12.989705 | long=77.58815 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa Su 11AM-7:30PM, Tu-F 11AM-6PM | price=₹20 for Indian citizens, ₹500 for foreigners | wikidata=Q17077814 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The National Gallery of Modern Art houses an auditorium, café, shop and exhibitions of modern and contemporary art in a beautiful building. The gallery organises and hosts talks on art and culture by speakers, seminars, film screenings as well as workshops and guided walks throughout the year. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Albert Victor Rd | lat=12.959494 | long=77.573572 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone=+91 80 2670 6836 | tollfree= | hours=daily 9:30AM-5:30PM | price=₹20 for Indians/SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens and ₹250 for foreigners (tickets only available online, you will need a phone with a QR code scanner and mobile data) | wikidata=Q7809034 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Dating to about 1790, it was the summer retreat for Tipu Sultan. The two-storey structure is made mostly out of wood with finely embellished balconies, pillars and arches. It contains a small museum with information on Tipu Sultan. }} ===Natural attractions=== * {{see | name=Lalbagh Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.95 | long=77.59 | directions=metro: {{station|Lalbagh|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q200711 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Built during the reigns of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, the botanical garden is home to numerous wild species of birds and other wildlife. The garden also has a lake adjoining a large rock is home to some water birds. Flower shows are conducted annually during the weeks of Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August) to educate the public about the variety of flora and foster public interest in plant conservation and cultivation. }} ===Places of worship=== [[File:Holy Trinity Church Bangalore Entrance.jpg|thumb|The entrance to the Holy Trinity Church]] ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Holy Trinity Church | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.972118 | long=77.620622 | directions=at Trinity circle at the east end of the MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5886431 | content=A major landmark of Central Bangalore. It was built in 1851, for the British Regiment stationed in Bangalore. Built-in the English Renaissance style, the church can accommodate 700 people and is regarded as the largest military church in southern India. It has a congregation of over 450 families. }} * {{see | name=Hudson Memorial Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hudson Circle | lat=12.967401 | long=77.587911 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24937604 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=Established in 1904 and named after missionary and scholar Rev. Josiah Hudson, who was responsible for opening Kannada schools in Bangalore Pete. The church attracts people of all faiths, especially in Thursdays and Sundays. }} * {{see | name=St. Andrew's Church | alt= | url=http://standrewschurch.org.in | email= | address=Cubbon Rd | lat=12.9792 | long=77.6042 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898472 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A Presbyterian church, consecrated in memory of Mary Elizabeth McGoun, wife of Col. Thomas McGoun of the 6th Madras Native Infantry. It is an example of Gothic architecture in the city, with a steeping roof of Mangalore tiles, a row of decorative ridge-tiles on the top, turreted parapets and gables, iron crested towers, intricately done plaster motifs, railings of cast iron, and pilasters and pavilions rising from the wing. }} * {{see | name=St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.parramattacathedral.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.992679 | long=77.611314 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7588004 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=St. John's Church | alt= | url=http://stjohnschurchbangalore.com/ | email= | address= | lat=12.9918 | long=77.613 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898476 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The fourth oldest Protestant church in the city, with a distinct red edifice and towering steeple, rising out of the leafy surroundings. There's a memorial in front of the church for its members who lost their lives in service of 'King and Empire', in World War I. }} * {{see | name=St. Mark's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.saintmarks.in | email= | address= | lat=12.97606 | long=77.60034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898479 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=The sole cathedral of Bangalore is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist. It is famous for its English Baroque architecture inspired by [[London]]'s St Paul's Cathedral. The entrance has elaborate woodwork with ornate carvings. The bell is the amongst the most well-maintained church bells in India. The stained glasswork adds to the beauty of the cathedral. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Basilica | alt= | url=http://www.stmarysbasilica.in/ | email= | address= | lat=12.984417 | long=77.60425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7590089 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content=The oldest church in Bangalore, and the only church in the state which has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities held during the St. Mary's Feast in the month of September each year, an event that attracts devotees from in and around Bangalore. The basilica is built in Gothic style with arches, ornamental motifs and stained glass windows. Multiple columns and tall spires of the basilica can be seen from quite a distance. The stained glass windows were removed during World War II and were subsequently restored in 1947. }} ====Temples==== * {{see | name=Dharmaraya Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.965444 | long=77.583389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2065042 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=One of the oldest temples of Bangalore and also the smallest, the Temple has existed since the times of Kempe Gowda. It is on S.P. Road close to Corporation Circle, behind the LIC building. This temple is famous for the Annual Karaga Festival held every summer. The Presiding Deity is Dharmaraya (Yudishthira) & Consort Draupadi, making it a unique one of its kind. }} * {{see | name=Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.959524 | long=77.574305 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}}, next to Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6433914 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A fine example of Dravidian architecture, built by Maharaja Chikkadevaraya Wodeyar. }} * {{see | name=Maha Bodhi Society Temple | url= | email= | address=No. 14, Kalidas Road, Gandhi Nagar | lat=12.97817 | long=77.58069 | directions=northwest rim of Freedom Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at [[Bodh Gaya]]. The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English. }} * {{see | name=Someshwara Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Halasuru | lat=12.975556 | long=77.623889 | directions=close to Halasuru Police station; metro: {{station|Halasuru|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q16891973 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples of the city. The inner sanctum sanctorum is said to have been built in the 8th century by the Cholas, who ruled this place, the outer Praharam during the Hoysalas of the 11th century, while the front hall construction and the Gopuram during the Vijayanagar Empire of the 15th century. The structure resembles the various changes the temple has gone through during the period, with major additions and renovations done to preserve the temple. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Bangalore Race Course | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98235 | long=77.58094 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{do | name=Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium | alt= | url=http://www.taralaya.org/ | email=info@taralaya.org | address=Bangalore Association for Science Education, Sri T. Choudaiah Road, High Grounds | lat=12.98486 | long=77.58954 | directions=opposite Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, Near Raj Bhavan | phone=+91 80-22379725 | tollfree= | hours=12:30-4:30PM (closed M and second Th) | price=₹35 for adults and ₹20 for school students and children (up to 16 years), children below 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky-Theatre | wikidata=Q6987903 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A very good planetarium for adults and children alike. Shows are offered in Kannada and English. Each show is about 30 minutes long. There are about 200 seats available for each show. A ticket can be used only for the show mentioned on the ticket, and is non-refundable if you miss that show. }} * {{do | name=Sir Puttanna Chetty Town Hall | alt=Bangalore Town Hall | url= | email= | address=112 JC Road | lat=12.96376 | long=77.58579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4855080 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A neoclassical building. The structure features a flight of steps leading to the entrance porch resting on Tuscan columns with identical columns extending on either sides. The auditorium has two floors with a total capacity of 810 seats. }} * {{do | name=Urvashi Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lalbagh Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Lalbagh Main gate & MTR | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-08 | content=A cool remodified theatre that allows a 1st hand experience in watching movies. One of the oldest theatres and important landmark of the City }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Chitra Santhe (Paintings market) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.99053 | long=77.58234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An annual exhibition, held on the first Sunday of every year in January, the Chitra Santhe on Kumara Krupa Road (near Golf Course) brings together artists from all across Karnataka. Paintings, pottery, and sculpture are all on an exhibition-cum-sale. The road is closed to traffic on that day, making it possible to have a leisurely stroll, admiring and buying the items. Prices range from ₹100-20,000. Bargaining is recommended, but not too hard. Pay a fair price. (Credit cards and foreign currency are rarely accepted, so carry sufficient cash in Indian currency). }} * {{do | name=Flower Show (Biannual) | alt= | url= | email= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 9AM to 5PM | price= ₹50 entry fees | content=A bi-annual affair at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, during the Independence Day (August 15th) & Republic Day (January 26th). Various companies display their floral exhibits in this period, normally held from a week before the above-mentioned days. The main epicentre would be a Rose arrangement representing a theme, or a heritage structure, which attracts major crowd from around Bangalore. }} * {{do | name=Mango Mela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM to 5PM | price=₹30 entry fees | content=An annual affair, at the beginning of summer, the season for the king of fruits. Normally, mangoes (raw & ripe), cultivated in Bangalore Rural and Ramanagara, as well as in neighbouring Kolar and Chikballapur, are brought and kept for show as well as sale during this period, at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. A must-visit for mango fans. }} ===Parks and stadiums=== * {{do | name=Cubbon Park | alt=Sri Chamarajendra Udyanavana | url=http://www.horticulture.kar.nic.in/cubbon.htm | email= | address= | lat=12.975 | long=77.593333 | directions=opposite to Chinnaswamy Stadium, {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3633776 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A nice forested area in the city centre. The entrance from Queen's Statue forms the tourist attraction owing to the presence of the Government Aquarium and Bal Bhavan, a play area for kids. '''Puttaani Express''' a small toy train for kids, runs inside the Bal Bhavan, attracting kids from far and near. For attractions around the park, see the [[#Cubbon Park area|Cubbon Park area]] subsection of See. }} * {{do | name=Freedom Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.977272 | long=77.581844 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5500576 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A park built on the grounds of a prison. It is also used for public protests. }} * {{do | name=M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat=12.978806 | long=77.599556 | directions={{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+90 80 4015 4015 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1861907 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=With a capacity of 40,000, this is the home of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has a large and loud following. The IPL season typically is from March to May every year, matches are played in the evenings and last around 3 hours. Scour the daily newspapers for ticket information - tickets sell out a week before. }} * {{do | name=Sree Kanteerava Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.969556 | long=77.593469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7585638 | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=A multi-purpose stadium with a running track, a volleyball court, and two outdoor rock-climbing walls. }} * {{do | name=Ulsoor Lake | alt=Halasuru lake | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.981472 | long=77.619214 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30587793 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore, with several islands. There's a watch tower with a Chinese bell on the lake. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=SPA.ce | alt= | url=http://www.spacethespa.com | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by an expat Brit. Offers a variety of massages, scrubs, and facials. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française de Bangalore | alt= | url=http://bangalore.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Thimmaiah Rd, Kaverappa Layout | lat=12.991477 | long=77.596851 | directions= | phone=+91 7899562404 | tollfree= | hours=9:30AM&ndash;5:30PM (closed S) | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Offers French language courses. }} ==Buy== * The '''UB City''' and '''Vittal Mallya Road''' are Page-3 shopping areas. You'll find brands like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Kimaya in the UB City. Vittal Mallya Road has stores like '''The Collective''' which is a shop only for men. Armani, Versace, Boss, you name it, they have it. There's even Canary Blue and Esprit on the same road. * {{buy | name=Brigade Road/M.G. Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97520 | long=77.60817 | directions=metro: {{station|MG Road|purple}} right next to the intersection of both roads | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The most popular place for tourists. These two roads are filled with shops of every kind, whether it be traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear (this is especially true for Brigade Road). Brigade Road, where British soldiers used to buy their necessities, is now the centre of yuppie Bangalore; you'll see hordes of college students on the road any time of day or night. Stores on Brigade Road include: Planet M (a huge music store with everything), Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Phillipe, Pepe Jeans, Levis, Lee, SanFrisco Jeans, Nike, and Titan (great Indian made watches). There are also many eateries on Brigade road and on the side roads that lead off it. Fast food outlets include KFC (right at the entrance), Pizza Hut (at the other end of the road), and many cafes including the Indian coffee chain Cafe Coffee Day. Also includes a tattoo studio. M.G. Road is short for Mahatma Gandhi road. }} * {{buy | name=Commercial Street | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98219 | long=77.60824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A legacy of the British is another shopping mecca that sells international brands (similar to Brigade road) alongside locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. In addition, it is famous for its body piercing centres. The price of goods here is very competitive and it is a great place to pick a bargain. }} * {{buy | name=Krishna Rajendra Market | alt=KR Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.96563 | long=77.57636 | directions=metro: {{station|KR Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The city's largest vegetable and fruit market. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Gangarams Book Bureau | alt= | url=http://gangaramsbookbureau.com/ | email=gangaramsinternational@gmail.com | address=#3, Church Street, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-11 | content=Since 1977, a destination for booklovers with books in a diverse range from academic, professional and technical to fiction and non-fiction. }} * {{buy | name=Blossoms | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=parallel to MG Rd and nearby Coconut Grove Restaurant | phone=+91 80 255 9733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are 3 full floors of those rare, hard to find old books. All 2nd hand, good condition and at low rates. }} * {{buy | name=The Bookworm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Church Street, opposite Starbucks | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a small used book store. Good bargains on used and new books are available here. }} * {{buy | name=Crossword | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=ACR Towers, opposite Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558 2411-16 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks, music and movie section, children's section and a coffee shop. A wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop. }} * {{buy | name=Elloor Library | url= | email= | address=Blue Cross Chambers, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=close to Commercial St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Requires membership which includes a deposit. }} * {{buy | name=Gangarams Mg road | url= | email=gangarams@vsnl.com | address=Triumph Tower, 2nd Floor, 48 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite High Gates Hotel and Mainland China; Church Street is parallel to Mahatma Gandhi ("MG") Road | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa | price= | content=A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works. }} * {{buy | name=Goobes Book Republic | url=http://www.goobes.wordpress.com | email=goobesbookrepublic@gmail.com | address=46-1-1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=in the basement of Church Street Inn, Budget Hotel, near MG Rd | phone=+91 80 4112 4956 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Secondhand and new books on a wide variety of subjects and a very cost effective library option and buy back used books. }} * {{buy | name=Higginbothams | alt= | url= | email= | address=68 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7359, +91 80 2558 6574 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This bookstore has a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels. }} * {{buy | name=Premier Book Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address=46/1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone=+91 80 2558 8570 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down. This store however, will shut down shortly. }} * {{buy | name=Sapna Book House | url=http://www.sapnaonline.com/ | email= | address=3rd Main Rd, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Walking distance from Majestic Bus stand | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a large bookstore, they also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery. }} * {{buy | name=Select Bookshop | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd Behind Curzon Court Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books. }} * {{buy | name=The Strand book stall | alt= | url=http://www.strandbookstall.com/ | email= | address=Dickenson Rd | lat= | long= | directions=1st Floor, Manipal Centre | phone=+91 80 2558 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Mahendra Textiles | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4124 9900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sarees and dress materials from Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kerala and Sri Lanka. }} * {{buy | name=Marmalade | alt= | url= | email= | address=Magrath Rd | lat= | long= | directions=adj to Spratt Salon; left before Coffee Day, on Brigade Rd Extn | phone=+91 80 4122 1814 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of affordable young designer wear. }} * {{buy | name=Native Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=behind Museum Rd Post Office, Museum Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of interesting merchandise, crafts made by NGOs, c/o The Only Place Restaurant. }} * {{buy | name=One G | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4123 1231 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(Jewellery) Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Rd. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of [[Mysore]] sandalwood are an especially good buy. }} * {{buy | name=Central Cottage Industries Emporium | alt=CCIE | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], Bangalore and [[Chennai]]. }} * {{buy | name=Chandi - The Divine Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Shop No. 12, First Floor, Public Utility Building | phone=+91 80 4112 3590, +91 80 4112 3610 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialising in Indian divine figures in all mediums. Claims to have the biggest collection of Ganeshas in town. High-quality and locally-priced wares, supposedly no pushy salesmanship. }} * {{buy | name=Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialises in Karnataka handicraft. }} ===Jewellery=== * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons | alt=Diamond Flagship Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=2-1 Main Cross Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Safina Plaza | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content={{convert|14000|ft2}} dedicated to the finest gold and diamond jewellery, spread over two floors. }} * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons-The Heritage Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=35 & 36 Commercial St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Dedicated to gold and silver. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Garuda Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97004 | long=77.60968 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads. }} * {{buy | name=Safina Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97977 | long=77.60696 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The sale capital of Bangalore, on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi). }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Annapoorna | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ulsoor | lat= | long= | directions=near Sai Baba Temple in Ulsoor. Need to get down at Ulsoor police station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pure vegetarian food in Tamil style. }} * {{eat | name=Bheemas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you have the penchant for spice this place is meant for you. }} * {{eat | name=I-Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Park, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Expensive, but arguably the best Italian food in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kudla | alt= | url=http://www.ramanashree.com/ | email= | address=Ramanashree Comforts, Richmond Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For seafood, serves excellent dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Oh! Calcutta | alt= | url= | email= | address=St Mark's Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Part of a chain of restaurants across the country, and the best Bengali food available in the city albeit pricier than the other options. }} * {{eat | name=Pabrai's Fresh and Naturalle Ice Cream | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood Street, Ashok Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6453 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Palms | alt= | url= | email= | address=33 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=at the Highgates Hotel | phone=+91 80 2559 7172 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Coorgi, and Malabari style. (shut for renovations) }} * {{eat | name=Queens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church Street, opposite Amoeba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small restaurant but great food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=RRs | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A renovation of the vintage RRs, the fun doubles here with the double storeyed restaurant, one serving Andhra and the other Hyderabadi cuisines. There's also alcohol, all the more reason to indulge on a Saturday afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Tijouri | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Atria, Palace Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2220 5205 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Delicacy| url= | email= | address=105 Dickenson's road, Manipal Centre| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Majestic | url= | email= | address=(''next to Fkcci Bldg''), KG Rd| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Anupams Coastal Express | url= | email= | address=Shivananda Circle | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They make fantastic fish dishes. Neer Dosa with Chicken Pulimunchi, kori roti and chicken ghee roast are some things you really cannot miss. }} * {{eat | name=Bobby-da-Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Lavanya Theatre, St John's Road, Near Ulsoor | lat=12.98369 | long=77.61391 | directions= | phone=+91 96 6367 8382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-3:45PM, 7:30PM-11PM | price= | content=The food is good (albeit slightly oily). It basically serves paranthas (with lots of butter), chaach, kheer and a number of side dishes (most notable being their shahi paneer and rajma). You may have to wait for a while in case it is full. So it's better to go slightly early, noon for lunch and 7:30PM for dinner to avoid rush). }} * {{eat | name=Coconut Grove | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97526 | long=77.60433 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Appams and Kerala parottas with a chicken sauce dish. Their lunch offer for ₹80 is also really good. A pretty good choice for reasonably priced quality seafood. Coco-Grove the outdoor 'beer cafe' extension is also worth a look. }} * {{eat | name=Fanoos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=adjoining Johnson Market, off Brigade Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the joints for getting sheekh (beef) rolls in Bangalore. They come in various sizes- sheekh roll, sheekh jumbo, sheekh mambo, sheekh rambo and sheekh sambo- the latter of which is almost 2 in thick. There are other options like chicken, mutton and paneer rolls as well as kababs and shawarma. ₹30-100 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Indian Coffee House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97474 | long=77.60533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=KC Das | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97588 | long=77.60179 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Bengali sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Kohinoor | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves very reasonably priced Kerala Muslim style food. }} * {{eat | name=Lake View Milk Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent ice creams, club sandwiches and burgers. }} * {{eat | name=Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) | alt= | url= | email= | address=11 Lal Bagh Rd | lat=12.9551857 | long=77.58556020000003 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2222 0022, +91 80 22221706 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-10-27| content=One of the very old traditional breakfast places in Bangalore. There are a few people who have been having their breakfast at MTR every day for the past 15 years. Closed between 2:45-3:30PM. Expect a long wait on weekends. Traditional 12-course Karnataka lunches are also available here for around ₹90 per head. Advance reservations recommended at weekends. Rava idlis, dosas and bisi bele bath are excellent. It has maintained its quality over the years and is very famous. It is on the road perpendicular to Lal bagh main gate. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Alibaba Cafe & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 7163 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Frazer Town. Arabian, Persian and Bhatkali cuisine described as "An Arabian Lake in the Indian Ocean". A themed restaurant with the feel of Arabia, Persia and India. The "Shaiya Biryani" of the Bhatkali cuisine, the Al faham chicken barbecue out of the Arabian cuisine and the chicken Jujeh kabab from the Persian cuisine are all recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Caesar's Multi Cuisine Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahalakshmi Chambers, 9/2, MG Rd. | lat= | long= | directions=beside HSBC bank opposite ING Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6:30PM–11:30PM | price= | content=Indian and continental food. Classic environment. The ambience is good, though the food is a tad expensive. Parking is a problem. }} * {{eat | name=Canopy | url= | email= | address=PU Building, M.G. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open air, multi-cuisine North-Indian food. Cooking techniques date back to the independence era offering the unique taste. Great outdoor ambiance in the middle of the central business district. ₹125-750 }} * {{eat | name=Ebony | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=on the 13th floor of the tallest building on MG Rd, Utility building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Stylish eatery with excellent evening views of the city. Service is a bit slow, but the ambiance makes it worth the wait. Book ahead for a terrace seat. ₹200-400 }} * {{eat | name=Koshy's | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat=12.97579 | long=77.60147 | directions=Below Church St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Bangalore institution, serving a smattering of Western favorites (like fish and chips) along with the usual South Indian fare in a bohemian-for-India atmosphere. On weekends, they serve up greasy Western-style breakfast, including omelettes and Bombay (i.e, French) Toast. Appam and stew is their Sunday breakfast special and a must eat. Turn right at the entrance for the more expensive (and decidedly less charming) A/C room. ₹50-200. Smoky, with sluggish service, and not particularly clean Koshy's still has plenty of character and history but its getting harder to justify their skyrocketing prices. }} * {{eat | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hot coffee to chilled Kingfisher beer on the tap awesome cocktails and even hand rolled Havana cigars. Salads, sandwiches, jacket baked potatoes to entrees. LRC also offers an Oxy Bar, Bangalore's first. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=Near Museum Rd | phone=+91 80 2227 7722, +91 90 2224 5864 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Upscale Chinese food. Good, fairly authentic food and excellent service. Serves a decent lunch buffet. Also new outlet on 100ft Road, Indiranagar. ₹500-800. }} * {{eat | name=Pinxx | url= | email= | address=Manipal centre | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place for Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. ₹200-400 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Samarkand | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gem Plaza, 66, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=East of Central St | phone=+91 80 4111 3366 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=North West frontier food (i.e., kebabs, Afghani) in a kitschy atmosphere but the food is great. You will need to book on weekends. ₹300-600. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Blue Ginger | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/restaurants/blue-ginger/ | email= | address=Taj West End | lat= | long= | directions=just next door to Blue Bar | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=High-end Vietnamese restaurant with a beautiful setting and excellent food. }} * {{eat | name=Graze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Taj Residency, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has some of the best creative continental you will get in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=I.Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Opposite 1 MG, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has the best Italian food in town }} * {{eat | name=Karavalli | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at the Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558-4545 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine. Best Indian food you will get when visiting BLR. }} * {{eat | name=Monsoon | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Next to Taj Residency | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24 hr cafe with a variety of Continental Dishes, Indian, Southeast Asian and Mediterranean. Ideal location for private parties. }} * {{eat | name=Olive Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A long time favourite that will serve you Italian meats and cheese in a nice setting, this is still among Bangalore's best. }} * {{eat | name=The Raj Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=ITC Windsor Manor, Golf Course Rd. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24/7 restaurant that offers the taste of the British Raj. Anglo-Lucknowi, Far East and Continental cuisine is served. Amongst the best in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=Sunny's | alt= | url= | email= | address=34 Vittal Mallya Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at Embassy Diamante | phone=+91 80 5132-9366, +91 80 5132-9391 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=About ₹1,200 for a 3-course meal for two, excluding drinks | content=Among the best restaurants in Bangalore. Try the starters, salads and pasta is fine here. Hot sandwiches for lunch. Also has a branch at Indira Nagar. }} * {{drink | name=Vaayu | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th floor, Eve Mall, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has comfortable lounge seating, and is open air, giving some nice views over the city. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Café Coffee Day | alt= | url=http://www.cafecoffeeday.com | email= | address= | lat=12.97130 | long=77.60712 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4001 2345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popularly known as CCD. Established in 1996, at Brigade Road, Bangalore, the chain has over 1,000 cafes throughout India. It is found all over Bangalore. }} * {{drink | name=Coffee Workers Co-op | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St's Brigade Gardens | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable Bangalore institution, with waiters in traditional uniforms and customers slowly savoring the age-old tradition of coffee drinking - though there are just two choices of coffee: black or white. Have some delightful "masala dosa" here. }} * {{drink | name=Java City | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pleasant old Bangalore atmosphere. Offers a wide variety of tea, coffee from all over the world including pizza, pasta, pastries, cookies, you name it they have it plus you get to see a unique sense of humor in their menu and on the walls. On Saturday and Sunday evenings, there is live music, rock and guitar. This place is simple, expatriate friendly and not at all pricy. There is another Java City near Lavelle Road. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Bull n Bush | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500 cover charge | content=Plays hip hop, house and occasionally trance. }} * {{drink | name=The Bunker | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Carpe Diem | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's a Power Metal haven. }} * {{drink | name=Ego's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Castle Street, off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10AM-11:30PM | price= | content=The latest watering hole in Bangalore. Rock music across the board screened on large plasma panels; every song can not only be heard but seen as well. Coffee, Kingfisher beer, cocktails, food and Bangalore's first oxy bar. }} * {{drink | name=New Night Watchman | alt= | url= | email= | address=Corner of Church Street and Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Little bit dingy but helpful bar staff - satellite TV has the Australia Network so you can watch Rugby Union and AFL games. }} * {{drink | name=Pecos | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/PECOS.Pubs | email= | address=Rest House Rd (''Off Brigade Road'') | lat=12.97373 | long=77.60717 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4090 5462, +91 944 982 7428 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=60s retro pub with a mural of Jerry Garcia. Often crowded on all 3 floors, including the pleasant roof-top seating area. Free popcorn with every pitcher of beer. Cards are available for frequent customers which make every tenth pitcher of beer free, but you may have to ask several times in order to acquire one and to get it updated. }} * {{drink | name=Sparks | alt= | url= | email= | address=Brigade Road Extension, next to Brigade Towers | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Styx | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=next to Cauvery Handicrafts on MG Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They put the "Heavy" in heavy metal! }} * {{drink | name=Sultanate of Swing | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free entry | content=Mainly plays Rock, Retro, Heavy Metal and has a Video DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Tavern at The Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Windsor Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vasanth Nagar (''off Mount Carmel's in Kodava Samaja Building'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small place which serves only beer, good food and is nice for a family outing. But only limited tables. }} * {{drink | name=Zeus | url= | email= | address=#174 2nd Floor Manohar Crest, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=above Health n Glow | phone=+91 80 2532 3355 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11:30PM | price= | content=Sports bar and lounge. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=13th Floor | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barton Centre, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Make a reservation. amazing view from the 13th floor }} * {{drink | name=Arbor Brewing Company | alt=ABC | url=https://www.arborbrewing.in/ | email=info@arborbrewing.in | address=8 Magrath Rd, Allied Grande Plaza, Ashok Nagar | lat=12.97027 | long=77.61089 | directions=Opp. Garuda Mall, Magrath Rd | phone=+91 80501 44477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon to 12:30AM | price= | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=Microbrewery that serves Belgian Triple, Smooth Criminal and Brassiere Blonde. Some of the smoothest beers in town and serves pub-style food. Has a nice vibe though it gets crowded during the weekend. }} * {{drink | name=Aura | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Biere Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vittal Mallya Rd on Lavelle Road, (''opp Sunny's''). | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bangalore’s first craft brewery and a popular place for beer lovers. }} * {{drink | name=Blue Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=West End, Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=On weekends you need to buy drink-tickets for ₹1,500 to enter. | content=Excellent drinks if you make sure Joel makes them. Officially they have a couple's only policy. Spontaneous dancing likely next to the bar. }} * {{drink | name=Hint | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th Floor, Bangalore Central, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Tuesdays is ladies night (couples permitted). }} * {{drink | name=iBar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Kosmo (Formerly Cosmo Village) | alt= | url= | email= | address=81 Ali Askar Road Cross (''Off Cunningham Road'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=3 separate areas including a terrace. This nightclub is a remodeled colonial villa on a quiet lane, with excellent DJs and expensive drinks, and attracts a wealthy clientele. }} * {{drink | name=Taika | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St. (''Off Brigade Rd'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Usually open past midnight and has a huge dance floor. 3 bars and a lounge area. Entrance varies each night. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Citizen Lodge | url= | email= | address=Lady Curzon Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Bowring Hospital, about {{km|1}} from MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double non-A/C room costs around from ₹850 | content=Bare bones motel-style establishment is well located but leaves much to be desired in terms of cleanliness and overall quality. }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel 29th Church's Inn | alt = formerly Church Street Inn | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-bangalore/fabhotel-29th-church-inn-mg-road.html | email= | address=#29th Church Street, off M.G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 70424 24242 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Manju Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22200679 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Naga Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41220539 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Omshakthi palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 26707927 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Retirement Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Central Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-05-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Mount Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakkal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41580000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Royal Regency Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.royalregencylodge.com | email= | address=S. C. Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Movieland theater | phone=+91 80 4113 0202 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹1500? | content=Clean rooms and convenient to the city’s local transports like the City bus station and the City Railway Station. }} * {{sleep | name=T.A.P. Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road Avenue Road; cross near Abhinay Theatre & Menaka Theatre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22280522 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=U. G. Classic | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=UG Deluxe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Majestic, Thulsi Thotta | lat= | long= | directions=stop near the small road opposite Upparpet Police station and next to Navaruchi restaurant, then take right and then immediate left on a small lane and at the end of it take right and you will see the lodge on your right | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=A/C rooms - ₹750, Non-A/C rooms - ₹550 | content=You may want to take an auto instead of walking down if you are going after a rainy day as your shoes will get dirty. }} * {{sleep | name=Vardhaman Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ganesh Lodge Building OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026707552 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹320 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=YMCA | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nrupathunga Rd | lat=12.97109 | long=77.58765 | directions=Near Cubbon Park | phone=+91 80 2221 1848 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=No-frills hotel. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Ajantha | alt= | url=http://hotelajantha.in/ | email=reservation@hotelajantha.in | address=22 Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 4321 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Sgl/dbl from ₹1500/₹1900, Cottage A/C ₹2700 | content=Good simple hotel with a vegetarian restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western The Capitol | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raj Bhavan Rd | lat=12.98246 | long=77.59450 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2228 1234, +91 80 2228 1800 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Fortune Park JP Celestial | url=http://www.fortunehotels.in/hotel/Bengaluru-Fortune_Park_JP_Celestial.aspx | email= | address=Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4044-1234 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bangalore Gate | alt=res@bangaloregate.com | url=http://www.hotelbangaloregate.com/ | email=book@hotelbangaloregate.com | address=9 and 12, Gajanana Towers, K G Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 99 4533 3999 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout= noon | price=₹3,600-4,800 | content=Executive, superior and premium rooms. All rooms are A/C with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. 24-hour room service, 2 restaurants, ample car parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komfort Terraces | alt= | url=http://komfortgrouphotels.com/ | email= | address=No 301, 3rd floor, Bluemoon Complex M G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4009 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout=noon | price=₹2381 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel St. Marks | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vrindavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=off MG Rd and very near to MG. Rd/Brigade Rd junction | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Nice hotel with great South Indian food. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Woodlands | alt= | url= | email= | address=No 5, Rajaram Mohan Roy Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Richmond Circle | phone=+91 80 2222 5111 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Very clean hotel, great views of the city, delicious free South Indian breakfast buffet for ₹3,400 per night for an A/C double (two single beds pushed together). Nice location for exploring the city. Long walk to M.G. Road, Garuda Mall, and Commercial Street. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Heritage Block, the Taj West End, Bangalore.jpg|thumb|Taj West End]] * {{sleep | name=Chancery Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96582 | long=77.59868 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=About $200 | content=Nice business hotel, good service and food }} * {{sleep | name=The Gateway Hotel, Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/gateway/residency-road-bangalore/ | email=gateway.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=66, Residency Road | lat=12.976750 | long=77.575280 | directions= | phone=+91 8066604545 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-21 | content=The Gateway Hotel Bengaluru is among the top hotels in the city and has won the National Tourism Award for three years in a row. }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Gardenia | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcgardenia-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96697 | long=77.59556 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2211 9898 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402720 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Windsor | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcwindsor-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=25, Golf Course Rd | lat=12.99414 | long=77.58597 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2226 9898 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹17,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru | alt= | url= | email= | address=24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd | lat=12.97245 | long=77.59479 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6718-9999 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹15,340-27,140 | wikidata=Q111402713 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lalit Ashok Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.nivalink.com/grandbangalore/ | email=grandashok@nivalink.com | address=Kumara Krupa High Grounds | lat=12.99225 | long=77.58188 | directions= | phone=+91 80 22 2404 2211 9 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi | alt= | url=http://www.oberoibangalore.com/index.asp?leftinfo=1&leftitem=1 | email= | address=37-39 MG Rd | lat=12.97332 | long=77.618164 | directions= | phone=+91 80 25585858 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402705 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com/banglore_home.htm | email=resv.blr@theparkhotels.com | address=14/7 MG Rd | lat=12.97391 | long=77.61961 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402703 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Bengaluru City Center | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-bengaluru-city-center | email= | address= | lat=12.976319 | long=77.61953 | directions= | phone=+91 80 62210103 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402698 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Taj MG Road | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-mgroad-bengaluru/ | email=reservations.mgroad@tajhotels.com | address=41/3 MG Rd | lat=12.97328 | long=77.61985 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6660-4444 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402704 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj West End | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/ | email=westend.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=Race Course Rd | lat=12.98 | long=77.58 | directions= | phone=+91 80 5660-5660 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64343188 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Nestled amidst 20 acres of flora and defined by its illustrious heritage and colonial charm. Started by the Bronsons as a 10-room inn in 1887, it now has 117 magnificent rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Bengaluru Residency Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9725 | long=77.60857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402710 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} sn96r696klep4xa1bo3vsoutsj2ne31 5091209 5091197 2025-07-11T05:54:49Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Natural attractions */ 5091209 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=Central Bangalore}} '''Central Bangalore''' is the heart of the city. It contains the original mud fort, the old neighbourhoods and the British-era cantonment. For a long time, it ''was'' the city, or rather the agglomeration of two cities: Bangalore Pete and Bangalore Cantonment. The older Pete has narrow alleys and dense living, while the newer Cantonment has wide streets and more greenery. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.975|77.598|width=700|height=550|zoom=14|name=Map of Central Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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===By metro=== The '''Purple Line''' {{rint|bangalore|purple}} serves the entire Central Bangalore east-west, from Mahatma Gandhi Road to KSR station. The '''Green Line''' {{rint|bangalore|green}} runs across the district north-south, serving Majestic, Chickpet and KR Market. Majestic is the interchange of Purple and Green lines. ==See== [[File:Tipu Palace bangalore.JPG|thumb|Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.962875 | long=77.575956 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q4855049 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Built in 1537. A small part with massive granite walls, big gates, a dungeon and a small Ganesha temple is still intact. Check out the stone carving high up on the wall to your left after entering the massive wooden door. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Centre | alt=Visvesvaraya Towers | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.982425 | long=77.595785 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130215606 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government office complex, built on the site of the house of Sir M. Visvesvaraya after his death. Initially constructed for the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), it was later bought by the state government to house government offices. The brutalist architecture of this high-rise building at Cubbon Park area stands in sharp contrast to the neoclassical architecture of Vidhana Soudha, Attara Kacheri and the General Post Office. The general public is not allowed into the premises, unless they have an appointment at one of the offices. }} ===Cubbon Park area=== [[File:High_Court_of_Karnataka,_Bangalore_MMK.jpg|thumb|Attara Kacheri]] [[File:Government Museum Bangalore (48186334876).jpg|thumb|Government Museum]] [[File:Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.jpg|thumbnail|Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum]] * {{see | name=Attara Kacheri | alt= | url=http://hck.gov.in/ | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.978056 | long=77.5925 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q104755615 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A two-storey neoclassical red-painted stone and brick building, hosting the High Court of Karnataka. It was previously a secretariat of eighteen departments, built under the reign of king Devaraja Wadiyar II in 1701. The main structure of the building is surrounded on all sides by porticoes and verandahs. The entire building is surfaced with plaster and painted with red ochre. It houses a law museum the houses an original print of the Constitution of India, articles and documents related to the legal profession, seals, insignia and books. It also showcases the history of the Karnataka High Court and the development of courts over the ages. }} * {{see | name=General Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9813 | long=77.595 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q64212872 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Its first floor contains a philatelic museum. }} * {{see | name=Kingfisher Towers | alt= | url= | email= | address=UB City | lat=12.97283 | long=77.59701 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kingfisher Towers Bangalore.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content=Probably the most famous high-rise residential building in Bangalore, despite not being the tallest in the city. The top of the building is occupied by a mansion, which is one of the few instances of a "building atop a building" in India. }} * {{see | name=Government Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9747 | long=77.5958 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q372869 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Established in 1865, the museum is flanked by the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum and the Venkatappa Art Gallery. It is an archaeological museum with a rare collection of archaeological and geological artefacts, including old jewellery, sculpture, coins and inscriptions. The museum is also home to the Halmidi inscription, the earliest writing in Kannada (450 CE). }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address=22, Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-7:30PM | price=2 free exhibitions, 2 paid exhibitions (₹150 combined) | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This museum presents 4 exhibitions (2 free and 2 paid, ₹150) and contains a café, restaurant and library over 5 stories. It's well worth a visit and takes about 2 hours. }} * {{see | name=Seshadari Iyer Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9746 | long=77.5907 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-14 | content=A distinctive red sandstone building, hosting the State Central Library. }} * {{see | name=Venkatappa Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974236 | long=77.595302 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24950240 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Vidhana Soudha | alt=Karnataka Legislative Assembly | url= | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.979693 | long=77.590658 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q283257 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=This granite building houses the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. It was built during the tenure of K. Hanumanthaiya, Chief Minister of Mysore State (1951–1956). A marvel of neo-Dravidian architecture, and one of the most imposing buildings in India. One of the interesting features of this building are the grand stairs in its front. The steps of the grand stairs are {{m|62}} wide and {{m|21}} deep, giving direct access to the foyer of the first floor leading to an assembly chamber. The architecture comprises of Dravidian richly carved bases and capitals for pillars, deep friezes, kapotha cornices, chaithya arches, heavy pediments domical finials. At the same time, the construction uses modern designs, making use of present-day materials like steel, reinforced concrete, glass, and plastic. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the ground or the building. It can only be viewed from the road and footpath outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Vikasa Soudha | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.978318 | long=77.589297 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65109682 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=Located next to Vidhana Soudha, built in the same classic style. It was inaugurated in 2005. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the premises. It can only be viewed from outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum | alt=VITM | url=https://www.vismuseum.gov.in/ | email=vitmuseum@gmail.com | address= | lat=12.9751 | long=77.5964 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+91 80-22866200 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-5:30PM (closed in Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali) | price= | wikidata=Q3537014 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Contains many fun learning activities and exhibitions that can be enjoyed by adults and children. Most exhibits are based on simple science, but some have industrial applications. For general visitors entry fee is ₹40. Some groups receive discounts (organised school groups, BPL Category when showing valid BPL card, etc). Entry is free for military and police personnel in uniform, the physically challenged, and children below 5 years of age. There is also a 3D show costing an extra ₹25 (for general public). }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Gandhi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kumara Park E | lat=12.988117 | long=77.579826 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60771806 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The museum consists of a gallery with rare photographs of Mahatma Gandhi and letters written by him, a library and an auditorium. It serves as a venue for meetings organised on Gandhian values in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=J's La Quill Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakachitrakalaparishath.com/index.php#gallery | email= | address= | lat=12.989167 | long=77.578367 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6372843 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A visual art complex with 18 galleries, 13 of which carry a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures and folk art. The folk art collection showcases Mysore paintings and leather puppets. }} * {{see | name=Kempegowda Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.974092 | long=77.610754 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM–5PM (closed Su) | price=Free | wikidata=Q6387055 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government museum dedicated to Bangalore's founder Kempe Gowda. It is housed in the Mayo Hall, which was built in memory of Lord Mayo, the 4th Viceroy of India. This two-storey building is known for its ornate furniture and architecture. It is adorned by chandeliers, Greek cornices, Tuscan columns, stone arches, wooden floors and beautiful furnishings. The building itself offers a panoramic view of the city's Parade Grounds and Ulsoor Lake on one side, and the Bangalore Race Course and Brigade Grounds on the south. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A private art museum and a custodian to a collection of Indian art, textiles, photography, craft, and design objects spanning from the twelfth century to the present. MAP has more than 20,000 artworks, predominantly from the Indian subcontinent, in its collection that are organised into six departments: Modern and Contemporary Art, Photography, Living Traditions, Popular Culture, Pre-Modern Art and Textiles, Craft and Design. The collection includes works by Indian modernists, as well as Indian artists. In addition, the vast collection includes photographs and works by indigenous artists. }} * {{see | name=National Military Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.985521 | long=77.590458 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q18379547 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=A memorial-cum-museum dedicated to the personnel and families of martyrs who have died in the service of the nation. The collection in the museum include mockups of missiles like AKASH, Prithvi and BrahMos and rockets like Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). }} * {{see | name=National Gallery of Modern Art | alt=NGMA | url=http://ngmaindia.gov.in/ngma_bangaluru.asp | email= | address=49, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd | lat=12.989705 | long=77.58815 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa Su 11AM-7:30PM, Tu-F 11AM-6PM | price=₹20 for Indian citizens, ₹500 for foreigners | wikidata=Q17077814 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The National Gallery of Modern Art houses an auditorium, café, shop and exhibitions of modern and contemporary art in a beautiful building. The gallery organises and hosts talks on art and culture by speakers, seminars, film screenings as well as workshops and guided walks throughout the year. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Albert Victor Rd | lat=12.959494 | long=77.573572 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone=+91 80 2670 6836 | tollfree= | hours=daily 9:30AM-5:30PM | price=₹20 for Indians/SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens and ₹250 for foreigners (tickets only available online, you will need a phone with a QR code scanner and mobile data) | wikidata=Q7809034 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Dating to about 1790, it was the summer retreat for Tipu Sultan. The two-storey structure is made mostly out of wood with finely embellished balconies, pillars and arches. It contains a small museum with information on Tipu Sultan. }} ===Natural attractions=== * {{see | name=Government Aquarium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Lalbagh Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.95 | long=77.59 | directions=metro: {{station|Lalbagh|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q200711 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Built during the reigns of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, the botanical garden is home to numerous wild species of birds and other wildlife. The garden also has a lake adjoining a large rock is home to some water birds. Flower shows are conducted annually during the weeks of Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August) to educate the public about the variety of flora and foster public interest in plant conservation and cultivation. }} ===Places of worship=== [[File:Holy Trinity Church Bangalore Entrance.jpg|thumb|The entrance to the Holy Trinity Church]] ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Holy Trinity Church | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.972118 | long=77.620622 | directions=at Trinity circle at the east end of the MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5886431 | content=A major landmark of Central Bangalore. It was built in 1851, for the British Regiment stationed in Bangalore. Built-in the English Renaissance style, the church can accommodate 700 people and is regarded as the largest military church in southern India. It has a congregation of over 450 families. }} * {{see | name=Hudson Memorial Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hudson Circle | lat=12.967401 | long=77.587911 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24937604 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=Established in 1904 and named after missionary and scholar Rev. Josiah Hudson, who was responsible for opening Kannada schools in Bangalore Pete. The church attracts people of all faiths, especially in Thursdays and Sundays. }} * {{see | name=St. Andrew's Church | alt= | url=http://standrewschurch.org.in | email= | address=Cubbon Rd | lat=12.9792 | long=77.6042 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898472 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A Presbyterian church, consecrated in memory of Mary Elizabeth McGoun, wife of Col. Thomas McGoun of the 6th Madras Native Infantry. It is an example of Gothic architecture in the city, with a steeping roof of Mangalore tiles, a row of decorative ridge-tiles on the top, turreted parapets and gables, iron crested towers, intricately done plaster motifs, railings of cast iron, and pilasters and pavilions rising from the wing. }} * {{see | name=St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.parramattacathedral.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.992679 | long=77.611314 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7588004 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=St. John's Church | alt= | url=http://stjohnschurchbangalore.com/ | email= | address= | lat=12.9918 | long=77.613 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898476 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The fourth oldest Protestant church in the city, with a distinct red edifice and towering steeple, rising out of the leafy surroundings. There's a memorial in front of the church for its members who lost their lives in service of 'King and Empire', in World War I. }} * {{see | name=St. Mark's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.saintmarks.in | email= | address= | lat=12.97606 | long=77.60034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898479 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=The sole cathedral of Bangalore is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist. It is famous for its English Baroque architecture inspired by [[London]]'s St Paul's Cathedral. The entrance has elaborate woodwork with ornate carvings. The bell is the amongst the most well-maintained church bells in India. The stained glasswork adds to the beauty of the cathedral. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Basilica | alt= | url=http://www.stmarysbasilica.in/ | email= | address= | lat=12.984417 | long=77.60425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7590089 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content=The oldest church in Bangalore, and the only church in the state which has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities held during the St. Mary's Feast in the month of September each year, an event that attracts devotees from in and around Bangalore. The basilica is built in Gothic style with arches, ornamental motifs and stained glass windows. Multiple columns and tall spires of the basilica can be seen from quite a distance. The stained glass windows were removed during World War II and were subsequently restored in 1947. }} ====Temples==== * {{see | name=Dharmaraya Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.965444 | long=77.583389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2065042 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=One of the oldest temples of Bangalore and also the smallest, the Temple has existed since the times of Kempe Gowda. It is on S.P. Road close to Corporation Circle, behind the LIC building. This temple is famous for the Annual Karaga Festival held every summer. The Presiding Deity is Dharmaraya (Yudishthira) & Consort Draupadi, making it a unique one of its kind. }} * {{see | name=Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.959524 | long=77.574305 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}}, next to Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6433914 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A fine example of Dravidian architecture, built by Maharaja Chikkadevaraya Wodeyar. }} * {{see | name=Maha Bodhi Society Temple | url= | email= | address=No. 14, Kalidas Road, Gandhi Nagar | lat=12.97817 | long=77.58069 | directions=northwest rim of Freedom Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at [[Bodh Gaya]]. The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English. }} * {{see | name=Someshwara Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Halasuru | lat=12.975556 | long=77.623889 | directions=close to Halasuru Police station; metro: {{station|Halasuru|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q16891973 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples of the city. The inner sanctum sanctorum is said to have been built in the 8th century by the Cholas, who ruled this place, the outer Praharam during the Hoysalas of the 11th century, while the front hall construction and the Gopuram during the Vijayanagar Empire of the 15th century. The structure resembles the various changes the temple has gone through during the period, with major additions and renovations done to preserve the temple. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Bangalore Race Course | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98235 | long=77.58094 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{do | name=Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium | alt= | url=http://www.taralaya.org/ | email=info@taralaya.org | address=Bangalore Association for Science Education, Sri T. Choudaiah Road, High Grounds | lat=12.98486 | long=77.58954 | directions=opposite Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, Near Raj Bhavan | phone=+91 80-22379725 | tollfree= | hours=12:30-4:30PM (closed M and second Th) | price=₹35 for adults and ₹20 for school students and children (up to 16 years), children below 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky-Theatre | wikidata=Q6987903 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A very good planetarium for adults and children alike. Shows are offered in Kannada and English. Each show is about 30 minutes long. There are about 200 seats available for each show. A ticket can be used only for the show mentioned on the ticket, and is non-refundable if you miss that show. }} * {{do | name=Sir Puttanna Chetty Town Hall | alt=Bangalore Town Hall | url= | email= | address=112 JC Road | lat=12.96376 | long=77.58579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4855080 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A neoclassical building. The structure features a flight of steps leading to the entrance porch resting on Tuscan columns with identical columns extending on either sides. The auditorium has two floors with a total capacity of 810 seats. }} * {{do | name=Urvashi Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lalbagh Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Lalbagh Main gate & MTR | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-08 | content=A cool remodified theatre that allows a 1st hand experience in watching movies. One of the oldest theatres and important landmark of the City }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Chitra Santhe (Paintings market) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.99053 | long=77.58234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An annual exhibition, held on the first Sunday of every year in January, the Chitra Santhe on Kumara Krupa Road (near Golf Course) brings together artists from all across Karnataka. Paintings, pottery, and sculpture are all on an exhibition-cum-sale. The road is closed to traffic on that day, making it possible to have a leisurely stroll, admiring and buying the items. Prices range from ₹100-20,000. Bargaining is recommended, but not too hard. Pay a fair price. (Credit cards and foreign currency are rarely accepted, so carry sufficient cash in Indian currency). }} * {{do | name=Flower Show (Biannual) | alt= | url= | email= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 9AM to 5PM | price= ₹50 entry fees | content=A bi-annual affair at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, during the Independence Day (August 15th) & Republic Day (January 26th). Various companies display their floral exhibits in this period, normally held from a week before the above-mentioned days. The main epicentre would be a Rose arrangement representing a theme, or a heritage structure, which attracts major crowd from around Bangalore. }} * {{do | name=Mango Mela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM to 5PM | price=₹30 entry fees | content=An annual affair, at the beginning of summer, the season for the king of fruits. Normally, mangoes (raw & ripe), cultivated in Bangalore Rural and Ramanagara, as well as in neighbouring Kolar and Chikballapur, are brought and kept for show as well as sale during this period, at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. A must-visit for mango fans. }} ===Parks and stadiums=== * {{do | name=Cubbon Park | alt=Sri Chamarajendra Udyanavana | url=http://www.horticulture.kar.nic.in/cubbon.htm | email= | address= | lat=12.975 | long=77.593333 | directions=opposite to Chinnaswamy Stadium, {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3633776 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A nice forested area in the city centre. The entrance from Queen's Statue forms the tourist attraction owing to the presence of the Government Aquarium and Bal Bhavan, a play area for kids. '''Puttaani Express''' a small toy train for kids, runs inside the Bal Bhavan, attracting kids from far and near. For attractions around the park, see the [[#Cubbon Park area|Cubbon Park area]] subsection of See. }} * {{do | name=Freedom Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.977272 | long=77.581844 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5500576 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A park built on the grounds of a prison. It is also used for public protests. }} * {{do | name=M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat=12.978806 | long=77.599556 | directions={{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+90 80 4015 4015 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1861907 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=With a capacity of 40,000, this is the home of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has a large and loud following. The IPL season typically is from March to May every year, matches are played in the evenings and last around 3 hours. Scour the daily newspapers for ticket information - tickets sell out a week before. }} * {{do | name=Sree Kanteerava Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.969556 | long=77.593469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7585638 | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=A multi-purpose stadium with a running track, a volleyball court, and two outdoor rock-climbing walls. }} * {{do | name=Ulsoor Lake | alt=Halasuru lake | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.981472 | long=77.619214 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30587793 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore, with several islands. There's a watch tower with a Chinese bell on the lake. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=SPA.ce | alt= | url=http://www.spacethespa.com | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by an expat Brit. Offers a variety of massages, scrubs, and facials. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française de Bangalore | alt= | url=http://bangalore.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Thimmaiah Rd, Kaverappa Layout | lat=12.991477 | long=77.596851 | directions= | phone=+91 7899562404 | tollfree= | hours=9:30AM&ndash;5:30PM (closed S) | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Offers French language courses. }} ==Buy== * The '''UB City''' and '''Vittal Mallya Road''' are Page-3 shopping areas. You'll find brands like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Kimaya in the UB City. Vittal Mallya Road has stores like '''The Collective''' which is a shop only for men. Armani, Versace, Boss, you name it, they have it. There's even Canary Blue and Esprit on the same road. * {{buy | name=Brigade Road/M.G. Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97520 | long=77.60817 | directions=metro: {{station|MG Road|purple}} right next to the intersection of both roads | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The most popular place for tourists. These two roads are filled with shops of every kind, whether it be traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear (this is especially true for Brigade Road). Brigade Road, where British soldiers used to buy their necessities, is now the centre of yuppie Bangalore; you'll see hordes of college students on the road any time of day or night. Stores on Brigade Road include: Planet M (a huge music store with everything), Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Phillipe, Pepe Jeans, Levis, Lee, SanFrisco Jeans, Nike, and Titan (great Indian made watches). There are also many eateries on Brigade road and on the side roads that lead off it. Fast food outlets include KFC (right at the entrance), Pizza Hut (at the other end of the road), and many cafes including the Indian coffee chain Cafe Coffee Day. Also includes a tattoo studio. M.G. Road is short for Mahatma Gandhi road. }} * {{buy | name=Commercial Street | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98219 | long=77.60824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A legacy of the British is another shopping mecca that sells international brands (similar to Brigade road) alongside locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. In addition, it is famous for its body piercing centres. The price of goods here is very competitive and it is a great place to pick a bargain. }} * {{buy | name=Krishna Rajendra Market | alt=KR Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.96563 | long=77.57636 | directions=metro: {{station|KR Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The city's largest vegetable and fruit market. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Gangarams Book Bureau | alt= | url=http://gangaramsbookbureau.com/ | email=gangaramsinternational@gmail.com | address=#3, Church Street, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-11 | content=Since 1977, a destination for booklovers with books in a diverse range from academic, professional and technical to fiction and non-fiction. }} * {{buy | name=Blossoms | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=parallel to MG Rd and nearby Coconut Grove Restaurant | phone=+91 80 255 9733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are 3 full floors of those rare, hard to find old books. All 2nd hand, good condition and at low rates. }} * {{buy | name=The Bookworm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Church Street, opposite Starbucks | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a small used book store. Good bargains on used and new books are available here. }} * {{buy | name=Crossword | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=ACR Towers, opposite Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558 2411-16 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks, music and movie section, children's section and a coffee shop. A wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop. }} * {{buy | name=Elloor Library | url= | email= | address=Blue Cross Chambers, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=close to Commercial St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Requires membership which includes a deposit. }} * {{buy | name=Gangarams Mg road | url= | email=gangarams@vsnl.com | address=Triumph Tower, 2nd Floor, 48 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite High Gates Hotel and Mainland China; Church Street is parallel to Mahatma Gandhi ("MG") Road | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa | price= | content=A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works. }} * {{buy | name=Goobes Book Republic | url=http://www.goobes.wordpress.com | email=goobesbookrepublic@gmail.com | address=46-1-1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=in the basement of Church Street Inn, Budget Hotel, near MG Rd | phone=+91 80 4112 4956 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Secondhand and new books on a wide variety of subjects and a very cost effective library option and buy back used books. }} * {{buy | name=Higginbothams | alt= | url= | email= | address=68 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7359, +91 80 2558 6574 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This bookstore has a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels. }} * {{buy | name=Premier Book Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address=46/1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone=+91 80 2558 8570 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down. This store however, will shut down shortly. }} * {{buy | name=Sapna Book House | url=http://www.sapnaonline.com/ | email= | address=3rd Main Rd, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Walking distance from Majestic Bus stand | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a large bookstore, they also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery. }} * {{buy | name=Select Bookshop | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd Behind Curzon Court Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books. }} * {{buy | name=The Strand book stall | alt= | url=http://www.strandbookstall.com/ | email= | address=Dickenson Rd | lat= | long= | directions=1st Floor, Manipal Centre | phone=+91 80 2558 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Mahendra Textiles | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4124 9900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sarees and dress materials from Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kerala and Sri Lanka. }} * {{buy | name=Marmalade | alt= | url= | email= | address=Magrath Rd | lat= | long= | directions=adj to Spratt Salon; left before Coffee Day, on Brigade Rd Extn | phone=+91 80 4122 1814 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of affordable young designer wear. }} * {{buy | name=Native Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=behind Museum Rd Post Office, Museum Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of interesting merchandise, crafts made by NGOs, c/o The Only Place Restaurant. }} * {{buy | name=One G | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4123 1231 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(Jewellery) Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Rd. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of [[Mysore]] sandalwood are an especially good buy. }} * {{buy | name=Central Cottage Industries Emporium | alt=CCIE | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], Bangalore and [[Chennai]]. }} * {{buy | name=Chandi - The Divine Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Shop No. 12, First Floor, Public Utility Building | phone=+91 80 4112 3590, +91 80 4112 3610 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialising in Indian divine figures in all mediums. Claims to have the biggest collection of Ganeshas in town. High-quality and locally-priced wares, supposedly no pushy salesmanship. }} * {{buy | name=Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialises in Karnataka handicraft. }} ===Jewellery=== * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons | alt=Diamond Flagship Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=2-1 Main Cross Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Safina Plaza | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content={{convert|14000|ft2}} dedicated to the finest gold and diamond jewellery, spread over two floors. }} * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons-The Heritage Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=35 & 36 Commercial St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Dedicated to gold and silver. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Garuda Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97004 | long=77.60968 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads. }} * {{buy | name=Safina Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97977 | long=77.60696 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The sale capital of Bangalore, on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi). }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Annapoorna | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ulsoor | lat= | long= | directions=near Sai Baba Temple in Ulsoor. Need to get down at Ulsoor police station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pure vegetarian food in Tamil style. }} * {{eat | name=Bheemas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you have the penchant for spice this place is meant for you. }} * {{eat | name=I-Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Park, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Expensive, but arguably the best Italian food in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kudla | alt= | url=http://www.ramanashree.com/ | email= | address=Ramanashree Comforts, Richmond Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For seafood, serves excellent dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Oh! Calcutta | alt= | url= | email= | address=St Mark's Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Part of a chain of restaurants across the country, and the best Bengali food available in the city albeit pricier than the other options. }} * {{eat | name=Pabrai's Fresh and Naturalle Ice Cream | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood Street, Ashok Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6453 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Palms | alt= | url= | email= | address=33 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=at the Highgates Hotel | phone=+91 80 2559 7172 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Coorgi, and Malabari style. (shut for renovations) }} * {{eat | name=Queens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church Street, opposite Amoeba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small restaurant but great food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=RRs | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A renovation of the vintage RRs, the fun doubles here with the double storeyed restaurant, one serving Andhra and the other Hyderabadi cuisines. There's also alcohol, all the more reason to indulge on a Saturday afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Tijouri | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Atria, Palace Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2220 5205 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Delicacy| url= | email= | address=105 Dickenson's road, Manipal Centre| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Majestic | url= | email= | address=(''next to Fkcci Bldg''), KG Rd| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Anupams Coastal Express | url= | email= | address=Shivananda Circle | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They make fantastic fish dishes. Neer Dosa with Chicken Pulimunchi, kori roti and chicken ghee roast are some things you really cannot miss. }} * {{eat | name=Bobby-da-Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Lavanya Theatre, St John's Road, Near Ulsoor | lat=12.98369 | long=77.61391 | directions= | phone=+91 96 6367 8382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-3:45PM, 7:30PM-11PM | price= | content=The food is good (albeit slightly oily). It basically serves paranthas (with lots of butter), chaach, kheer and a number of side dishes (most notable being their shahi paneer and rajma). You may have to wait for a while in case it is full. So it's better to go slightly early, noon for lunch and 7:30PM for dinner to avoid rush). }} * {{eat | name=Coconut Grove | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97526 | long=77.60433 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Appams and Kerala parottas with a chicken sauce dish. Their lunch offer for ₹80 is also really good. A pretty good choice for reasonably priced quality seafood. Coco-Grove the outdoor 'beer cafe' extension is also worth a look. }} * {{eat | name=Fanoos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=adjoining Johnson Market, off Brigade Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the joints for getting sheekh (beef) rolls in Bangalore. They come in various sizes- sheekh roll, sheekh jumbo, sheekh mambo, sheekh rambo and sheekh sambo- the latter of which is almost 2 in thick. There are other options like chicken, mutton and paneer rolls as well as kababs and shawarma. ₹30-100 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Indian Coffee House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97474 | long=77.60533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=KC Das | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97588 | long=77.60179 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Bengali sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Kohinoor | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves very reasonably priced Kerala Muslim style food. }} * {{eat | name=Lake View Milk Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent ice creams, club sandwiches and burgers. }} * {{eat | name=Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) | alt= | url= | email= | address=11 Lal Bagh Rd | lat=12.9551857 | long=77.58556020000003 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2222 0022, +91 80 22221706 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-10-27| content=One of the very old traditional breakfast places in Bangalore. There are a few people who have been having their breakfast at MTR every day for the past 15 years. Closed between 2:45-3:30PM. Expect a long wait on weekends. Traditional 12-course Karnataka lunches are also available here for around ₹90 per head. Advance reservations recommended at weekends. Rava idlis, dosas and bisi bele bath are excellent. It has maintained its quality over the years and is very famous. It is on the road perpendicular to Lal bagh main gate. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Alibaba Cafe & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 7163 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Frazer Town. Arabian, Persian and Bhatkali cuisine described as "An Arabian Lake in the Indian Ocean". A themed restaurant with the feel of Arabia, Persia and India. The "Shaiya Biryani" of the Bhatkali cuisine, the Al faham chicken barbecue out of the Arabian cuisine and the chicken Jujeh kabab from the Persian cuisine are all recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Caesar's Multi Cuisine Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahalakshmi Chambers, 9/2, MG Rd. | lat= | long= | directions=beside HSBC bank opposite ING Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6:30PM–11:30PM | price= | content=Indian and continental food. Classic environment. The ambience is good, though the food is a tad expensive. Parking is a problem. }} * {{eat | name=Canopy | url= | email= | address=PU Building, M.G. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open air, multi-cuisine North-Indian food. Cooking techniques date back to the independence era offering the unique taste. Great outdoor ambiance in the middle of the central business district. ₹125-750 }} * {{eat | name=Ebony | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=on the 13th floor of the tallest building on MG Rd, Utility building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Stylish eatery with excellent evening views of the city. Service is a bit slow, but the ambiance makes it worth the wait. Book ahead for a terrace seat. ₹200-400 }} * {{eat | name=Koshy's | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat=12.97579 | long=77.60147 | directions=Below Church St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Bangalore institution, serving a smattering of Western favorites (like fish and chips) along with the usual South Indian fare in a bohemian-for-India atmosphere. On weekends, they serve up greasy Western-style breakfast, including omelettes and Bombay (i.e, French) Toast. Appam and stew is their Sunday breakfast special and a must eat. Turn right at the entrance for the more expensive (and decidedly less charming) A/C room. ₹50-200. Smoky, with sluggish service, and not particularly clean Koshy's still has plenty of character and history but its getting harder to justify their skyrocketing prices. }} * {{eat | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hot coffee to chilled Kingfisher beer on the tap awesome cocktails and even hand rolled Havana cigars. Salads, sandwiches, jacket baked potatoes to entrees. LRC also offers an Oxy Bar, Bangalore's first. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=Near Museum Rd | phone=+91 80 2227 7722, +91 90 2224 5864 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Upscale Chinese food. Good, fairly authentic food and excellent service. Serves a decent lunch buffet. Also new outlet on 100ft Road, Indiranagar. ₹500-800. }} * {{eat | name=Pinxx | url= | email= | address=Manipal centre | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place for Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. ₹200-400 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Samarkand | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gem Plaza, 66, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=East of Central St | phone=+91 80 4111 3366 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=North West frontier food (i.e., kebabs, Afghani) in a kitschy atmosphere but the food is great. You will need to book on weekends. ₹300-600. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Blue Ginger | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/restaurants/blue-ginger/ | email= | address=Taj West End | lat= | long= | directions=just next door to Blue Bar | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=High-end Vietnamese restaurant with a beautiful setting and excellent food. }} * {{eat | name=Graze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Taj Residency, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has some of the best creative continental you will get in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=I.Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Opposite 1 MG, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has the best Italian food in town }} * {{eat | name=Karavalli | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at the Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558-4545 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine. Best Indian food you will get when visiting BLR. }} * {{eat | name=Monsoon | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Next to Taj Residency | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24 hr cafe with a variety of Continental Dishes, Indian, Southeast Asian and Mediterranean. Ideal location for private parties. }} * {{eat | name=Olive Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A long time favourite that will serve you Italian meats and cheese in a nice setting, this is still among Bangalore's best. }} * {{eat | name=The Raj Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=ITC Windsor Manor, Golf Course Rd. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24/7 restaurant that offers the taste of the British Raj. Anglo-Lucknowi, Far East and Continental cuisine is served. Amongst the best in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=Sunny's | alt= | url= | email= | address=34 Vittal Mallya Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at Embassy Diamante | phone=+91 80 5132-9366, +91 80 5132-9391 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=About ₹1,200 for a 3-course meal for two, excluding drinks | content=Among the best restaurants in Bangalore. Try the starters, salads and pasta is fine here. Hot sandwiches for lunch. Also has a branch at Indira Nagar. }} * {{drink | name=Vaayu | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th floor, Eve Mall, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has comfortable lounge seating, and is open air, giving some nice views over the city. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Café Coffee Day | alt= | url=http://www.cafecoffeeday.com | email= | address= | lat=12.97130 | long=77.60712 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4001 2345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popularly known as CCD. Established in 1996, at Brigade Road, Bangalore, the chain has over 1,000 cafes throughout India. It is found all over Bangalore. }} * {{drink | name=Coffee Workers Co-op | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St's Brigade Gardens | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable Bangalore institution, with waiters in traditional uniforms and customers slowly savoring the age-old tradition of coffee drinking - though there are just two choices of coffee: black or white. Have some delightful "masala dosa" here. }} * {{drink | name=Java City | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pleasant old Bangalore atmosphere. Offers a wide variety of tea, coffee from all over the world including pizza, pasta, pastries, cookies, you name it they have it plus you get to see a unique sense of humor in their menu and on the walls. On Saturday and Sunday evenings, there is live music, rock and guitar. This place is simple, expatriate friendly and not at all pricy. There is another Java City near Lavelle Road. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Bull n Bush | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500 cover charge | content=Plays hip hop, house and occasionally trance. }} * {{drink | name=The Bunker | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Carpe Diem | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's a Power Metal haven. }} * {{drink | name=Ego's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Castle Street, off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10AM-11:30PM | price= | content=The latest watering hole in Bangalore. Rock music across the board screened on large plasma panels; every song can not only be heard but seen as well. Coffee, Kingfisher beer, cocktails, food and Bangalore's first oxy bar. }} * {{drink | name=New Night Watchman | alt= | url= | email= | address=Corner of Church Street and Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Little bit dingy but helpful bar staff - satellite TV has the Australia Network so you can watch Rugby Union and AFL games. }} * {{drink | name=Pecos | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/PECOS.Pubs | email= | address=Rest House Rd (''Off Brigade Road'') | lat=12.97373 | long=77.60717 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4090 5462, +91 944 982 7428 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=60s retro pub with a mural of Jerry Garcia. Often crowded on all 3 floors, including the pleasant roof-top seating area. Free popcorn with every pitcher of beer. Cards are available for frequent customers which make every tenth pitcher of beer free, but you may have to ask several times in order to acquire one and to get it updated. }} * {{drink | name=Sparks | alt= | url= | email= | address=Brigade Road Extension, next to Brigade Towers | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Styx | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=next to Cauvery Handicrafts on MG Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They put the "Heavy" in heavy metal! }} * {{drink | name=Sultanate of Swing | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free entry | content=Mainly plays Rock, Retro, Heavy Metal and has a Video DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Tavern at The Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Windsor Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vasanth Nagar (''off Mount Carmel's in Kodava Samaja Building'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small place which serves only beer, good food and is nice for a family outing. But only limited tables. }} * {{drink | name=Zeus | url= | email= | address=#174 2nd Floor Manohar Crest, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=above Health n Glow | phone=+91 80 2532 3355 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11:30PM | price= | content=Sports bar and lounge. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=13th Floor | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barton Centre, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Make a reservation. amazing view from the 13th floor }} * {{drink | name=Arbor Brewing Company | alt=ABC | url=https://www.arborbrewing.in/ | email=info@arborbrewing.in | address=8 Magrath Rd, Allied Grande Plaza, Ashok Nagar | lat=12.97027 | long=77.61089 | directions=Opp. Garuda Mall, Magrath Rd | phone=+91 80501 44477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon to 12:30AM | price= | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=Microbrewery that serves Belgian Triple, Smooth Criminal and Brassiere Blonde. Some of the smoothest beers in town and serves pub-style food. Has a nice vibe though it gets crowded during the weekend. }} * {{drink | name=Aura | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Biere Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vittal Mallya Rd on Lavelle Road, (''opp Sunny's''). | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bangalore’s first craft brewery and a popular place for beer lovers. }} * {{drink | name=Blue Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=West End, Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=On weekends you need to buy drink-tickets for ₹1,500 to enter. | content=Excellent drinks if you make sure Joel makes them. Officially they have a couple's only policy. Spontaneous dancing likely next to the bar. }} * {{drink | name=Hint | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th Floor, Bangalore Central, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Tuesdays is ladies night (couples permitted). }} * {{drink | name=iBar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Kosmo (Formerly Cosmo Village) | alt= | url= | email= | address=81 Ali Askar Road Cross (''Off Cunningham Road'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=3 separate areas including a terrace. This nightclub is a remodeled colonial villa on a quiet lane, with excellent DJs and expensive drinks, and attracts a wealthy clientele. }} * {{drink | name=Taika | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St. (''Off Brigade Rd'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Usually open past midnight and has a huge dance floor. 3 bars and a lounge area. Entrance varies each night. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Citizen Lodge | url= | email= | address=Lady Curzon Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Bowring Hospital, about {{km|1}} from MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double non-A/C room costs around from ₹850 | content=Bare bones motel-style establishment is well located but leaves much to be desired in terms of cleanliness and overall quality. }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel 29th Church's Inn | alt = formerly Church Street Inn | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-bangalore/fabhotel-29th-church-inn-mg-road.html | email= | address=#29th Church Street, off M.G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 70424 24242 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Manju Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22200679 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Naga Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41220539 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Omshakthi palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 26707927 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Retirement Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Central Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-05-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Mount Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakkal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41580000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Royal Regency Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.royalregencylodge.com | email= | address=S. C. Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Movieland theater | phone=+91 80 4113 0202 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹1500? | content=Clean rooms and convenient to the city’s local transports like the City bus station and the City Railway Station. }} * {{sleep | name=T.A.P. Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road Avenue Road; cross near Abhinay Theatre & Menaka Theatre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22280522 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=U. G. Classic | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=UG Deluxe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Majestic, Thulsi Thotta | lat= | long= | directions=stop near the small road opposite Upparpet Police station and next to Navaruchi restaurant, then take right and then immediate left on a small lane and at the end of it take right and you will see the lodge on your right | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=A/C rooms - ₹750, Non-A/C rooms - ₹550 | content=You may want to take an auto instead of walking down if you are going after a rainy day as your shoes will get dirty. }} * {{sleep | name=Vardhaman Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ganesh Lodge Building OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026707552 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹320 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=YMCA | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nrupathunga Rd | lat=12.97109 | long=77.58765 | directions=Near Cubbon Park | phone=+91 80 2221 1848 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=No-frills hotel. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Ajantha | alt= | url=http://hotelajantha.in/ | email=reservation@hotelajantha.in | address=22 Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 4321 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Sgl/dbl from ₹1500/₹1900, Cottage A/C ₹2700 | content=Good simple hotel with a vegetarian restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western The Capitol | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raj Bhavan Rd | lat=12.98246 | long=77.59450 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2228 1234, +91 80 2228 1800 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Fortune Park JP Celestial | url=http://www.fortunehotels.in/hotel/Bengaluru-Fortune_Park_JP_Celestial.aspx | email= | address=Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4044-1234 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bangalore Gate | alt=res@bangaloregate.com | url=http://www.hotelbangaloregate.com/ | email=book@hotelbangaloregate.com | address=9 and 12, Gajanana Towers, K G Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 99 4533 3999 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout= noon | price=₹3,600-4,800 | content=Executive, superior and premium rooms. All rooms are A/C with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. 24-hour room service, 2 restaurants, ample car parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komfort Terraces | alt= | url=http://komfortgrouphotels.com/ | email= | address=No 301, 3rd floor, Bluemoon Complex M G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4009 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout=noon | price=₹2381 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel St. Marks | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vrindavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=off MG Rd and very near to MG. Rd/Brigade Rd junction | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Nice hotel with great South Indian food. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Woodlands | alt= | url= | email= | address=No 5, Rajaram Mohan Roy Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Richmond Circle | phone=+91 80 2222 5111 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Very clean hotel, great views of the city, delicious free South Indian breakfast buffet for ₹3,400 per night for an A/C double (two single beds pushed together). Nice location for exploring the city. Long walk to M.G. Road, Garuda Mall, and Commercial Street. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Heritage Block, the Taj West End, Bangalore.jpg|thumb|Taj West End]] * {{sleep | name=Chancery Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96582 | long=77.59868 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=About $200 | content=Nice business hotel, good service and food }} * {{sleep | name=The Gateway Hotel, Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/gateway/residency-road-bangalore/ | email=gateway.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=66, Residency Road | lat=12.976750 | long=77.575280 | directions= | phone=+91 8066604545 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-21 | content=The Gateway Hotel Bengaluru is among the top hotels in the city and has won the National Tourism Award for three years in a row. }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Gardenia | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcgardenia-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96697 | long=77.59556 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2211 9898 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402720 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Windsor | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcwindsor-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=25, Golf Course Rd | lat=12.99414 | long=77.58597 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2226 9898 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹17,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru | alt= | url= | email= | address=24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd | lat=12.97245 | long=77.59479 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6718-9999 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹15,340-27,140 | wikidata=Q111402713 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lalit Ashok Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.nivalink.com/grandbangalore/ | email=grandashok@nivalink.com | address=Kumara Krupa High Grounds | lat=12.99225 | long=77.58188 | directions= | phone=+91 80 22 2404 2211 9 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi | alt= | url=http://www.oberoibangalore.com/index.asp?leftinfo=1&leftitem=1 | email= | address=37-39 MG Rd | lat=12.97332 | long=77.618164 | directions= | phone=+91 80 25585858 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402705 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com/banglore_home.htm | email=resv.blr@theparkhotels.com | address=14/7 MG Rd | lat=12.97391 | long=77.61961 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402703 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Bengaluru City Center | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-bengaluru-city-center | email= | address= | lat=12.976319 | long=77.61953 | directions= | phone=+91 80 62210103 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402698 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Taj MG Road | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-mgroad-bengaluru/ | email=reservations.mgroad@tajhotels.com | address=41/3 MG Rd | lat=12.97328 | long=77.61985 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6660-4444 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402704 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj West End | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/ | email=westend.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=Race Course Rd | lat=12.98 | long=77.58 | directions= | phone=+91 80 5660-5660 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64343188 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Nestled amidst 20 acres of flora and defined by its illustrious heritage and colonial charm. Started by the Bronsons as a 10-room inn in 1887, it now has 117 magnificent rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Bengaluru Residency Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9725 | long=77.60857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402710 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} olwjd56zdljbe37n6yl8mjmligvslml 5091211 5091209 2025-07-11T06:00:35Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Natural attractions */ Updated listing for Government Aquarium 5091211 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=Central Bangalore}} '''Central Bangalore''' is the heart of the city. It contains the original mud fort, the old neighbourhoods and the British-era cantonment. For a long time, it ''was'' the city, or rather the agglomeration of two cities: Bangalore Pete and Bangalore Cantonment. The older Pete has narrow alleys and dense living, while the newer Cantonment has wide streets and more greenery. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.975|77.598|width=700|height=550|zoom=14|name=Map of Central Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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===By metro=== The '''Purple Line''' {{rint|bangalore|purple}} serves the entire Central Bangalore east-west, from Mahatma Gandhi Road to KSR station. The '''Green Line''' {{rint|bangalore|green}} runs across the district north-south, serving Majestic, Chickpet and KR Market. Majestic is the interchange of Purple and Green lines. ==See== [[File:Tipu Palace bangalore.JPG|thumb|Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.962875 | long=77.575956 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q4855049 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Built in 1537. A small part with massive granite walls, big gates, a dungeon and a small Ganesha temple is still intact. Check out the stone carving high up on the wall to your left after entering the massive wooden door. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Centre | alt=Visvesvaraya Towers | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.982425 | long=77.595785 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130215606 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government office complex, built on the site of the house of Sir M. Visvesvaraya after his death. Initially constructed for the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), it was later bought by the state government to house government offices. The brutalist architecture of this high-rise building at Cubbon Park area stands in sharp contrast to the neoclassical architecture of Vidhana Soudha, Attara Kacheri and the General Post Office. The general public is not allowed into the premises, unless they have an appointment at one of the offices. }} ===Cubbon Park area=== [[File:High_Court_of_Karnataka,_Bangalore_MMK.jpg|thumb|Attara Kacheri]] [[File:Government Museum Bangalore (48186334876).jpg|thumb|Government Museum]] [[File:Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.jpg|thumbnail|Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum]] * {{see | name=Attara Kacheri | alt= | url=http://hck.gov.in/ | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.978056 | long=77.5925 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q104755615 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A two-storey neoclassical red-painted stone and brick building, hosting the High Court of Karnataka. It was previously a secretariat of eighteen departments, built under the reign of king Devaraja Wadiyar II in 1701. The main structure of the building is surrounded on all sides by porticoes and verandahs. The entire building is surfaced with plaster and painted with red ochre. It houses a law museum the houses an original print of the Constitution of India, articles and documents related to the legal profession, seals, insignia and books. It also showcases the history of the Karnataka High Court and the development of courts over the ages. }} * {{see | name=General Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9813 | long=77.595 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q64212872 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Its first floor contains a philatelic museum. }} * {{see | name=Kingfisher Towers | alt= | url= | email= | address=UB City | lat=12.97283 | long=77.59701 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kingfisher Towers Bangalore.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content=Probably the most famous high-rise residential building in Bangalore, despite not being the tallest in the city. The top of the building is occupied by a mansion, which is one of the few instances of a "building atop a building" in India. }} * {{see | name=Government Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9747 | long=77.5958 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q372869 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Established in 1865, the museum is flanked by the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum and the Venkatappa Art Gallery. It is an archaeological museum with a rare collection of archaeological and geological artefacts, including old jewellery, sculpture, coins and inscriptions. The museum is also home to the Halmidi inscription, the earliest writing in Kannada (450 CE). }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address=22, Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-7:30PM | price=2 free exhibitions, 2 paid exhibitions (₹150 combined) | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This museum presents 4 exhibitions (2 free and 2 paid, ₹150) and contains a café, restaurant and library over 5 stories. It's well worth a visit and takes about 2 hours. }} * {{see | name=Seshadari Iyer Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9746 | long=77.5907 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-14 | content=A distinctive red sandstone building, hosting the State Central Library. }} * {{see | name=Venkatappa Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974236 | long=77.595302 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24950240 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Vidhana Soudha | alt=Karnataka Legislative Assembly | url= | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.979693 | long=77.590658 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q283257 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=This granite building houses the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. It was built during the tenure of K. Hanumanthaiya, Chief Minister of Mysore State (1951–1956). A marvel of neo-Dravidian architecture, and one of the most imposing buildings in India. One of the interesting features of this building are the grand stairs in its front. The steps of the grand stairs are {{m|62}} wide and {{m|21}} deep, giving direct access to the foyer of the first floor leading to an assembly chamber. The architecture comprises of Dravidian richly carved bases and capitals for pillars, deep friezes, kapotha cornices, chaithya arches, heavy pediments domical finials. At the same time, the construction uses modern designs, making use of present-day materials like steel, reinforced concrete, glass, and plastic. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the ground or the building. It can only be viewed from the road and footpath outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Vikasa Soudha | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.978318 | long=77.589297 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65109682 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=Located next to Vidhana Soudha, built in the same classic style. It was inaugurated in 2005. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the premises. It can only be viewed from outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum | alt=VITM | url=https://www.vismuseum.gov.in/ | email=vitmuseum@gmail.com | address= | lat=12.9751 | long=77.5964 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+91 80-22866200 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-5:30PM (closed in Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali) | price= | wikidata=Q3537014 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Contains many fun learning activities and exhibitions that can be enjoyed by adults and children. Most exhibits are based on simple science, but some have industrial applications. For general visitors entry fee is ₹40. Some groups receive discounts (organised school groups, BPL Category when showing valid BPL card, etc). Entry is free for military and police personnel in uniform, the physically challenged, and children below 5 years of age. There is also a 3D show costing an extra ₹25 (for general public). }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Gandhi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kumara Park E | lat=12.988117 | long=77.579826 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60771806 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The museum consists of a gallery with rare photographs of Mahatma Gandhi and letters written by him, a library and an auditorium. It serves as a venue for meetings organised on Gandhian values in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=J's La Quill Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakachitrakalaparishath.com/index.php#gallery | email= | address= | lat=12.989167 | long=77.578367 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6372843 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A visual art complex with 18 galleries, 13 of which carry a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures and folk art. The folk art collection showcases Mysore paintings and leather puppets. }} * {{see | name=Kempegowda Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.974092 | long=77.610754 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM–5PM (closed Su) | price=Free | wikidata=Q6387055 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government museum dedicated to Bangalore's founder Kempe Gowda. It is housed in the Mayo Hall, which was built in memory of Lord Mayo, the 4th Viceroy of India. This two-storey building is known for its ornate furniture and architecture. It is adorned by chandeliers, Greek cornices, Tuscan columns, stone arches, wooden floors and beautiful furnishings. The building itself offers a panoramic view of the city's Parade Grounds and Ulsoor Lake on one side, and the Bangalore Race Course and Brigade Grounds on the south. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A private art museum and a custodian to a collection of Indian art, textiles, photography, craft, and design objects spanning from the twelfth century to the present. MAP has more than 20,000 artworks, predominantly from the Indian subcontinent, in its collection that are organised into six departments: Modern and Contemporary Art, Photography, Living Traditions, Popular Culture, Pre-Modern Art and Textiles, Craft and Design. The collection includes works by Indian modernists, as well as Indian artists. In addition, the vast collection includes photographs and works by indigenous artists. }} * {{see | name=National Military Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.985521 | long=77.590458 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q18379547 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=A memorial-cum-museum dedicated to the personnel and families of martyrs who have died in the service of the nation. The collection in the museum include mockups of missiles like AKASH, Prithvi and BrahMos and rockets like Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). }} * {{see | name=National Gallery of Modern Art | alt=NGMA | url=http://ngmaindia.gov.in/ngma_bangaluru.asp | email= | address=49, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd | lat=12.989705 | long=77.58815 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa Su 11AM-7:30PM, Tu-F 11AM-6PM | price=₹20 for Indian citizens, ₹500 for foreigners | wikidata=Q17077814 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The National Gallery of Modern Art houses an auditorium, café, shop and exhibitions of modern and contemporary art in a beautiful building. The gallery organises and hosts talks on art and culture by speakers, seminars, film screenings as well as workshops and guided walks throughout the year. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Albert Victor Rd | lat=12.959494 | long=77.573572 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone=+91 80 2670 6836 | tollfree= | hours=daily 9:30AM-5:30PM | price=₹20 for Indians/SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens and ₹250 for foreigners (tickets only available online, you will need a phone with a QR code scanner and mobile data) | wikidata=Q7809034 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Dating to about 1790, it was the summer retreat for Tipu Sultan. The two-storey structure is made mostly out of wood with finely embellished balconies, pillars and arches. It contains a small museum with information on Tipu Sultan. }} ===Natural attractions=== * {{see | name=Government Aquarium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=at the entrance of Cubbon Park, close to VITM | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-5:30PM | price=₹150 per head for adults, ₹5 per head for students upto 10th standard, free for children below 5 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=The second largest aquarium in India. It has a variety of exotic cultivable as well as marine fishes on display, including include eels, angelfish, glowlight tetra, hockey stick tetra, red-tail shark, catla, Indian tiger barb, mahseer, freshwater prawns, blue gourami, pearl gourami, goldfish, moon tail etc. }} * {{see | name=Lalbagh Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.95 | long=77.59 | directions=metro: {{station|Lalbagh|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q200711 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Built during the reigns of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, the botanical garden is home to numerous wild species of birds and other wildlife. The garden also has a lake adjoining a large rock is home to some water birds. Flower shows are conducted annually during the weeks of Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August) to educate the public about the variety of flora and foster public interest in plant conservation and cultivation. }} ===Places of worship=== [[File:Holy Trinity Church Bangalore Entrance.jpg|thumb|The entrance to the Holy Trinity Church]] ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Holy Trinity Church | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.972118 | long=77.620622 | directions=at Trinity circle at the east end of the MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5886431 | content=A major landmark of Central Bangalore. It was built in 1851, for the British Regiment stationed in Bangalore. Built-in the English Renaissance style, the church can accommodate 700 people and is regarded as the largest military church in southern India. It has a congregation of over 450 families. }} * {{see | name=Hudson Memorial Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hudson Circle | lat=12.967401 | long=77.587911 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24937604 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=Established in 1904 and named after missionary and scholar Rev. Josiah Hudson, who was responsible for opening Kannada schools in Bangalore Pete. The church attracts people of all faiths, especially in Thursdays and Sundays. }} * {{see | name=St. Andrew's Church | alt= | url=http://standrewschurch.org.in | email= | address=Cubbon Rd | lat=12.9792 | long=77.6042 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898472 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A Presbyterian church, consecrated in memory of Mary Elizabeth McGoun, wife of Col. Thomas McGoun of the 6th Madras Native Infantry. It is an example of Gothic architecture in the city, with a steeping roof of Mangalore tiles, a row of decorative ridge-tiles on the top, turreted parapets and gables, iron crested towers, intricately done plaster motifs, railings of cast iron, and pilasters and pavilions rising from the wing. }} * {{see | name=St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.parramattacathedral.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.992679 | long=77.611314 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7588004 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=St. John's Church | alt= | url=http://stjohnschurchbangalore.com/ | email= | address= | lat=12.9918 | long=77.613 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898476 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The fourth oldest Protestant church in the city, with a distinct red edifice and towering steeple, rising out of the leafy surroundings. There's a memorial in front of the church for its members who lost their lives in service of 'King and Empire', in World War I. }} * {{see | name=St. Mark's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.saintmarks.in | email= | address= | lat=12.97606 | long=77.60034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898479 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=The sole cathedral of Bangalore is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist. It is famous for its English Baroque architecture inspired by [[London]]'s St Paul's Cathedral. The entrance has elaborate woodwork with ornate carvings. The bell is the amongst the most well-maintained church bells in India. The stained glasswork adds to the beauty of the cathedral. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Basilica | alt= | url=http://www.stmarysbasilica.in/ | email= | address= | lat=12.984417 | long=77.60425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7590089 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content=The oldest church in Bangalore, and the only church in the state which has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities held during the St. Mary's Feast in the month of September each year, an event that attracts devotees from in and around Bangalore. The basilica is built in Gothic style with arches, ornamental motifs and stained glass windows. Multiple columns and tall spires of the basilica can be seen from quite a distance. The stained glass windows were removed during World War II and were subsequently restored in 1947. }} ====Temples==== * {{see | name=Dharmaraya Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.965444 | long=77.583389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2065042 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=One of the oldest temples of Bangalore and also the smallest, the Temple has existed since the times of Kempe Gowda. It is on S.P. Road close to Corporation Circle, behind the LIC building. This temple is famous for the Annual Karaga Festival held every summer. The Presiding Deity is Dharmaraya (Yudishthira) & Consort Draupadi, making it a unique one of its kind. }} * {{see | name=Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.959524 | long=77.574305 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}}, next to Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6433914 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A fine example of Dravidian architecture, built by Maharaja Chikkadevaraya Wodeyar. }} * {{see | name=Maha Bodhi Society Temple | url= | email= | address=No. 14, Kalidas Road, Gandhi Nagar | lat=12.97817 | long=77.58069 | directions=northwest rim of Freedom Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at [[Bodh Gaya]]. The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English. }} * {{see | name=Someshwara Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Halasuru | lat=12.975556 | long=77.623889 | directions=close to Halasuru Police station; metro: {{station|Halasuru|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q16891973 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples of the city. The inner sanctum sanctorum is said to have been built in the 8th century by the Cholas, who ruled this place, the outer Praharam during the Hoysalas of the 11th century, while the front hall construction and the Gopuram during the Vijayanagar Empire of the 15th century. The structure resembles the various changes the temple has gone through during the period, with major additions and renovations done to preserve the temple. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Bangalore Race Course | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98235 | long=77.58094 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{do | name=Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium | alt= | url=http://www.taralaya.org/ | email=info@taralaya.org | address=Bangalore Association for Science Education, Sri T. Choudaiah Road, High Grounds | lat=12.98486 | long=77.58954 | directions=opposite Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, Near Raj Bhavan | phone=+91 80-22379725 | tollfree= | hours=12:30-4:30PM (closed M and second Th) | price=₹35 for adults and ₹20 for school students and children (up to 16 years), children below 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky-Theatre | wikidata=Q6987903 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A very good planetarium for adults and children alike. Shows are offered in Kannada and English. Each show is about 30 minutes long. There are about 200 seats available for each show. A ticket can be used only for the show mentioned on the ticket, and is non-refundable if you miss that show. }} * {{do | name=Sir Puttanna Chetty Town Hall | alt=Bangalore Town Hall | url= | email= | address=112 JC Road | lat=12.96376 | long=77.58579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4855080 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A neoclassical building. The structure features a flight of steps leading to the entrance porch resting on Tuscan columns with identical columns extending on either sides. The auditorium has two floors with a total capacity of 810 seats. }} * {{do | name=Urvashi Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lalbagh Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Lalbagh Main gate & MTR | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-08 | content=A cool remodified theatre that allows a 1st hand experience in watching movies. One of the oldest theatres and important landmark of the City }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Chitra Santhe (Paintings market) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.99053 | long=77.58234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An annual exhibition, held on the first Sunday of every year in January, the Chitra Santhe on Kumara Krupa Road (near Golf Course) brings together artists from all across Karnataka. Paintings, pottery, and sculpture are all on an exhibition-cum-sale. The road is closed to traffic on that day, making it possible to have a leisurely stroll, admiring and buying the items. Prices range from ₹100-20,000. Bargaining is recommended, but not too hard. Pay a fair price. (Credit cards and foreign currency are rarely accepted, so carry sufficient cash in Indian currency). }} * {{do | name=Flower Show (Biannual) | alt= | url= | email= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 9AM to 5PM | price= ₹50 entry fees | content=A bi-annual affair at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, during the Independence Day (August 15th) & Republic Day (January 26th). Various companies display their floral exhibits in this period, normally held from a week before the above-mentioned days. The main epicentre would be a Rose arrangement representing a theme, or a heritage structure, which attracts major crowd from around Bangalore. }} * {{do | name=Mango Mela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM to 5PM | price=₹30 entry fees | content=An annual affair, at the beginning of summer, the season for the king of fruits. Normally, mangoes (raw & ripe), cultivated in Bangalore Rural and Ramanagara, as well as in neighbouring Kolar and Chikballapur, are brought and kept for show as well as sale during this period, at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. A must-visit for mango fans. }} ===Parks and stadiums=== * {{do | name=Cubbon Park | alt=Sri Chamarajendra Udyanavana | url=http://www.horticulture.kar.nic.in/cubbon.htm | email= | address= | lat=12.975 | long=77.593333 | directions=opposite to Chinnaswamy Stadium, {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3633776 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A nice forested area in the city centre. The entrance from Queen's Statue forms the tourist attraction owing to the presence of the Government Aquarium and Bal Bhavan, a play area for kids. '''Puttaani Express''' a small toy train for kids, runs inside the Bal Bhavan, attracting kids from far and near. For attractions around the park, see the [[#Cubbon Park area|Cubbon Park area]] subsection of See. }} * {{do | name=Freedom Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.977272 | long=77.581844 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5500576 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A park built on the grounds of a prison. It is also used for public protests. }} * {{do | name=M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat=12.978806 | long=77.599556 | directions={{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+90 80 4015 4015 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1861907 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=With a capacity of 40,000, this is the home of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has a large and loud following. The IPL season typically is from March to May every year, matches are played in the evenings and last around 3 hours. Scour the daily newspapers for ticket information - tickets sell out a week before. }} * {{do | name=Sree Kanteerava Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.969556 | long=77.593469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7585638 | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=A multi-purpose stadium with a running track, a volleyball court, and two outdoor rock-climbing walls. }} * {{do | name=Ulsoor Lake | alt=Halasuru lake | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.981472 | long=77.619214 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30587793 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore, with several islands. There's a watch tower with a Chinese bell on the lake. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=SPA.ce | alt= | url=http://www.spacethespa.com | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by an expat Brit. Offers a variety of massages, scrubs, and facials. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française de Bangalore | alt= | url=http://bangalore.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Thimmaiah Rd, Kaverappa Layout | lat=12.991477 | long=77.596851 | directions= | phone=+91 7899562404 | tollfree= | hours=9:30AM&ndash;5:30PM (closed S) | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Offers French language courses. }} ==Buy== * The '''UB City''' and '''Vittal Mallya Road''' are Page-3 shopping areas. You'll find brands like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Kimaya in the UB City. Vittal Mallya Road has stores like '''The Collective''' which is a shop only for men. Armani, Versace, Boss, you name it, they have it. There's even Canary Blue and Esprit on the same road. * {{buy | name=Brigade Road/M.G. Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97520 | long=77.60817 | directions=metro: {{station|MG Road|purple}} right next to the intersection of both roads | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The most popular place for tourists. These two roads are filled with shops of every kind, whether it be traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear (this is especially true for Brigade Road). Brigade Road, where British soldiers used to buy their necessities, is now the centre of yuppie Bangalore; you'll see hordes of college students on the road any time of day or night. Stores on Brigade Road include: Planet M (a huge music store with everything), Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Phillipe, Pepe Jeans, Levis, Lee, SanFrisco Jeans, Nike, and Titan (great Indian made watches). There are also many eateries on Brigade road and on the side roads that lead off it. Fast food outlets include KFC (right at the entrance), Pizza Hut (at the other end of the road), and many cafes including the Indian coffee chain Cafe Coffee Day. Also includes a tattoo studio. M.G. Road is short for Mahatma Gandhi road. }} * {{buy | name=Commercial Street | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98219 | long=77.60824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A legacy of the British is another shopping mecca that sells international brands (similar to Brigade road) alongside locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. In addition, it is famous for its body piercing centres. The price of goods here is very competitive and it is a great place to pick a bargain. }} * {{buy | name=Krishna Rajendra Market | alt=KR Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.96563 | long=77.57636 | directions=metro: {{station|KR Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The city's largest vegetable and fruit market. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Gangarams Book Bureau | alt= | url=http://gangaramsbookbureau.com/ | email=gangaramsinternational@gmail.com | address=#3, Church Street, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-11 | content=Since 1977, a destination for booklovers with books in a diverse range from academic, professional and technical to fiction and non-fiction. }} * {{buy | name=Blossoms | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=parallel to MG Rd and nearby Coconut Grove Restaurant | phone=+91 80 255 9733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are 3 full floors of those rare, hard to find old books. All 2nd hand, good condition and at low rates. }} * {{buy | name=The Bookworm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Church Street, opposite Starbucks | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a small used book store. Good bargains on used and new books are available here. }} * {{buy | name=Crossword | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=ACR Towers, opposite Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558 2411-16 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks, music and movie section, children's section and a coffee shop. A wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop. }} * {{buy | name=Elloor Library | url= | email= | address=Blue Cross Chambers, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=close to Commercial St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Requires membership which includes a deposit. }} * {{buy | name=Gangarams Mg road | url= | email=gangarams@vsnl.com | address=Triumph Tower, 2nd Floor, 48 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite High Gates Hotel and Mainland China; Church Street is parallel to Mahatma Gandhi ("MG") Road | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa | price= | content=A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works. }} * {{buy | name=Goobes Book Republic | url=http://www.goobes.wordpress.com | email=goobesbookrepublic@gmail.com | address=46-1-1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=in the basement of Church Street Inn, Budget Hotel, near MG Rd | phone=+91 80 4112 4956 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Secondhand and new books on a wide variety of subjects and a very cost effective library option and buy back used books. }} * {{buy | name=Higginbothams | alt= | url= | email= | address=68 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7359, +91 80 2558 6574 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This bookstore has a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels. }} * {{buy | name=Premier Book Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address=46/1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone=+91 80 2558 8570 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down. This store however, will shut down shortly. }} * {{buy | name=Sapna Book House | url=http://www.sapnaonline.com/ | email= | address=3rd Main Rd, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Walking distance from Majestic Bus stand | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a large bookstore, they also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery. }} * {{buy | name=Select Bookshop | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd Behind Curzon Court Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books. }} * {{buy | name=The Strand book stall | alt= | url=http://www.strandbookstall.com/ | email= | address=Dickenson Rd | lat= | long= | directions=1st Floor, Manipal Centre | phone=+91 80 2558 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Mahendra Textiles | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4124 9900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sarees and dress materials from Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kerala and Sri Lanka. }} * {{buy | name=Marmalade | alt= | url= | email= | address=Magrath Rd | lat= | long= | directions=adj to Spratt Salon; left before Coffee Day, on Brigade Rd Extn | phone=+91 80 4122 1814 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of affordable young designer wear. }} * {{buy | name=Native Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=behind Museum Rd Post Office, Museum Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of interesting merchandise, crafts made by NGOs, c/o The Only Place Restaurant. }} * {{buy | name=One G | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4123 1231 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(Jewellery) Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Rd. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of [[Mysore]] sandalwood are an especially good buy. }} * {{buy | name=Central Cottage Industries Emporium | alt=CCIE | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], Bangalore and [[Chennai]]. }} * {{buy | name=Chandi - The Divine Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Shop No. 12, First Floor, Public Utility Building | phone=+91 80 4112 3590, +91 80 4112 3610 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialising in Indian divine figures in all mediums. Claims to have the biggest collection of Ganeshas in town. High-quality and locally-priced wares, supposedly no pushy salesmanship. }} * {{buy | name=Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialises in Karnataka handicraft. }} ===Jewellery=== * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons | alt=Diamond Flagship Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=2-1 Main Cross Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Safina Plaza | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content={{convert|14000|ft2}} dedicated to the finest gold and diamond jewellery, spread over two floors. }} * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons-The Heritage Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=35 & 36 Commercial St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Dedicated to gold and silver. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Garuda Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97004 | long=77.60968 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads. }} * {{buy | name=Safina Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97977 | long=77.60696 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The sale capital of Bangalore, on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi). }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Annapoorna | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ulsoor | lat= | long= | directions=near Sai Baba Temple in Ulsoor. Need to get down at Ulsoor police station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pure vegetarian food in Tamil style. }} * {{eat | name=Bheemas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you have the penchant for spice this place is meant for you. }} * {{eat | name=I-Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Park, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Expensive, but arguably the best Italian food in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kudla | alt= | url=http://www.ramanashree.com/ | email= | address=Ramanashree Comforts, Richmond Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For seafood, serves excellent dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Oh! Calcutta | alt= | url= | email= | address=St Mark's Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Part of a chain of restaurants across the country, and the best Bengali food available in the city albeit pricier than the other options. }} * {{eat | name=Pabrai's Fresh and Naturalle Ice Cream | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood Street, Ashok Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6453 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Palms | alt= | url= | email= | address=33 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=at the Highgates Hotel | phone=+91 80 2559 7172 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Coorgi, and Malabari style. (shut for renovations) }} * {{eat | name=Queens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church Street, opposite Amoeba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small restaurant but great food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=RRs | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A renovation of the vintage RRs, the fun doubles here with the double storeyed restaurant, one serving Andhra and the other Hyderabadi cuisines. There's also alcohol, all the more reason to indulge on a Saturday afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Tijouri | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Atria, Palace Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2220 5205 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Delicacy| url= | email= | address=105 Dickenson's road, Manipal Centre| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Majestic | url= | email= | address=(''next to Fkcci Bldg''), KG Rd| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Anupams Coastal Express | url= | email= | address=Shivananda Circle | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They make fantastic fish dishes. Neer Dosa with Chicken Pulimunchi, kori roti and chicken ghee roast are some things you really cannot miss. }} * {{eat | name=Bobby-da-Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Lavanya Theatre, St John's Road, Near Ulsoor | lat=12.98369 | long=77.61391 | directions= | phone=+91 96 6367 8382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-3:45PM, 7:30PM-11PM | price= | content=The food is good (albeit slightly oily). It basically serves paranthas (with lots of butter), chaach, kheer and a number of side dishes (most notable being their shahi paneer and rajma). You may have to wait for a while in case it is full. So it's better to go slightly early, noon for lunch and 7:30PM for dinner to avoid rush). }} * {{eat | name=Coconut Grove | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97526 | long=77.60433 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Appams and Kerala parottas with a chicken sauce dish. Their lunch offer for ₹80 is also really good. A pretty good choice for reasonably priced quality seafood. Coco-Grove the outdoor 'beer cafe' extension is also worth a look. }} * {{eat | name=Fanoos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=adjoining Johnson Market, off Brigade Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the joints for getting sheekh (beef) rolls in Bangalore. They come in various sizes- sheekh roll, sheekh jumbo, sheekh mambo, sheekh rambo and sheekh sambo- the latter of which is almost 2 in thick. There are other options like chicken, mutton and paneer rolls as well as kababs and shawarma. ₹30-100 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Indian Coffee House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97474 | long=77.60533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=KC Das | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97588 | long=77.60179 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Bengali sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Kohinoor | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves very reasonably priced Kerala Muslim style food. }} * {{eat | name=Lake View Milk Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent ice creams, club sandwiches and burgers. }} * {{eat | name=Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) | alt= | url= | email= | address=11 Lal Bagh Rd | lat=12.9551857 | long=77.58556020000003 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2222 0022, +91 80 22221706 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-10-27| content=One of the very old traditional breakfast places in Bangalore. There are a few people who have been having their breakfast at MTR every day for the past 15 years. Closed between 2:45-3:30PM. Expect a long wait on weekends. Traditional 12-course Karnataka lunches are also available here for around ₹90 per head. Advance reservations recommended at weekends. Rava idlis, dosas and bisi bele bath are excellent. It has maintained its quality over the years and is very famous. It is on the road perpendicular to Lal bagh main gate. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Alibaba Cafe & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 7163 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Frazer Town. Arabian, Persian and Bhatkali cuisine described as "An Arabian Lake in the Indian Ocean". A themed restaurant with the feel of Arabia, Persia and India. The "Shaiya Biryani" of the Bhatkali cuisine, the Al faham chicken barbecue out of the Arabian cuisine and the chicken Jujeh kabab from the Persian cuisine are all recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Caesar's Multi Cuisine Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahalakshmi Chambers, 9/2, MG Rd. | lat= | long= | directions=beside HSBC bank opposite ING Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6:30PM–11:30PM | price= | content=Indian and continental food. Classic environment. The ambience is good, though the food is a tad expensive. Parking is a problem. }} * {{eat | name=Canopy | url= | email= | address=PU Building, M.G. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open air, multi-cuisine North-Indian food. Cooking techniques date back to the independence era offering the unique taste. Great outdoor ambiance in the middle of the central business district. ₹125-750 }} * {{eat | name=Ebony | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=on the 13th floor of the tallest building on MG Rd, Utility building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Stylish eatery with excellent evening views of the city. Service is a bit slow, but the ambiance makes it worth the wait. Book ahead for a terrace seat. ₹200-400 }} * {{eat | name=Koshy's | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat=12.97579 | long=77.60147 | directions=Below Church St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Bangalore institution, serving a smattering of Western favorites (like fish and chips) along with the usual South Indian fare in a bohemian-for-India atmosphere. On weekends, they serve up greasy Western-style breakfast, including omelettes and Bombay (i.e, French) Toast. Appam and stew is their Sunday breakfast special and a must eat. Turn right at the entrance for the more expensive (and decidedly less charming) A/C room. ₹50-200. Smoky, with sluggish service, and not particularly clean Koshy's still has plenty of character and history but its getting harder to justify their skyrocketing prices. }} * {{eat | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hot coffee to chilled Kingfisher beer on the tap awesome cocktails and even hand rolled Havana cigars. Salads, sandwiches, jacket baked potatoes to entrees. LRC also offers an Oxy Bar, Bangalore's first. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=Near Museum Rd | phone=+91 80 2227 7722, +91 90 2224 5864 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Upscale Chinese food. Good, fairly authentic food and excellent service. Serves a decent lunch buffet. Also new outlet on 100ft Road, Indiranagar. ₹500-800. }} * {{eat | name=Pinxx | url= | email= | address=Manipal centre | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place for Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. ₹200-400 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Samarkand | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gem Plaza, 66, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=East of Central St | phone=+91 80 4111 3366 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=North West frontier food (i.e., kebabs, Afghani) in a kitschy atmosphere but the food is great. You will need to book on weekends. ₹300-600. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Blue Ginger | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/restaurants/blue-ginger/ | email= | address=Taj West End | lat= | long= | directions=just next door to Blue Bar | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=High-end Vietnamese restaurant with a beautiful setting and excellent food. }} * {{eat | name=Graze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Taj Residency, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has some of the best creative continental you will get in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=I.Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Opposite 1 MG, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has the best Italian food in town }} * {{eat | name=Karavalli | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at the Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558-4545 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine. Best Indian food you will get when visiting BLR. }} * {{eat | name=Monsoon | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Next to Taj Residency | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24 hr cafe with a variety of Continental Dishes, Indian, Southeast Asian and Mediterranean. Ideal location for private parties. }} * {{eat | name=Olive Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A long time favourite that will serve you Italian meats and cheese in a nice setting, this is still among Bangalore's best. }} * {{eat | name=The Raj Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=ITC Windsor Manor, Golf Course Rd. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24/7 restaurant that offers the taste of the British Raj. Anglo-Lucknowi, Far East and Continental cuisine is served. Amongst the best in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=Sunny's | alt= | url= | email= | address=34 Vittal Mallya Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at Embassy Diamante | phone=+91 80 5132-9366, +91 80 5132-9391 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=About ₹1,200 for a 3-course meal for two, excluding drinks | content=Among the best restaurants in Bangalore. Try the starters, salads and pasta is fine here. Hot sandwiches for lunch. Also has a branch at Indira Nagar. }} * {{drink | name=Vaayu | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th floor, Eve Mall, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has comfortable lounge seating, and is open air, giving some nice views over the city. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Café Coffee Day | alt= | url=http://www.cafecoffeeday.com | email= | address= | lat=12.97130 | long=77.60712 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4001 2345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popularly known as CCD. Established in 1996, at Brigade Road, Bangalore, the chain has over 1,000 cafes throughout India. It is found all over Bangalore. }} * {{drink | name=Coffee Workers Co-op | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St's Brigade Gardens | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable Bangalore institution, with waiters in traditional uniforms and customers slowly savoring the age-old tradition of coffee drinking - though there are just two choices of coffee: black or white. Have some delightful "masala dosa" here. }} * {{drink | name=Java City | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pleasant old Bangalore atmosphere. Offers a wide variety of tea, coffee from all over the world including pizza, pasta, pastries, cookies, you name it they have it plus you get to see a unique sense of humor in their menu and on the walls. On Saturday and Sunday evenings, there is live music, rock and guitar. This place is simple, expatriate friendly and not at all pricy. There is another Java City near Lavelle Road. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Bull n Bush | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500 cover charge | content=Plays hip hop, house and occasionally trance. }} * {{drink | name=The Bunker | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Carpe Diem | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's a Power Metal haven. }} * {{drink | name=Ego's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Castle Street, off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10AM-11:30PM | price= | content=The latest watering hole in Bangalore. Rock music across the board screened on large plasma panels; every song can not only be heard but seen as well. Coffee, Kingfisher beer, cocktails, food and Bangalore's first oxy bar. }} * {{drink | name=New Night Watchman | alt= | url= | email= | address=Corner of Church Street and Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Little bit dingy but helpful bar staff - satellite TV has the Australia Network so you can watch Rugby Union and AFL games. }} * {{drink | name=Pecos | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/PECOS.Pubs | email= | address=Rest House Rd (''Off Brigade Road'') | lat=12.97373 | long=77.60717 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4090 5462, +91 944 982 7428 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=60s retro pub with a mural of Jerry Garcia. Often crowded on all 3 floors, including the pleasant roof-top seating area. Free popcorn with every pitcher of beer. Cards are available for frequent customers which make every tenth pitcher of beer free, but you may have to ask several times in order to acquire one and to get it updated. }} * {{drink | name=Sparks | alt= | url= | email= | address=Brigade Road Extension, next to Brigade Towers | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Styx | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=next to Cauvery Handicrafts on MG Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They put the "Heavy" in heavy metal! }} * {{drink | name=Sultanate of Swing | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free entry | content=Mainly plays Rock, Retro, Heavy Metal and has a Video DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Tavern at The Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Windsor Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vasanth Nagar (''off Mount Carmel's in Kodava Samaja Building'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small place which serves only beer, good food and is nice for a family outing. But only limited tables. }} * {{drink | name=Zeus | url= | email= | address=#174 2nd Floor Manohar Crest, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=above Health n Glow | phone=+91 80 2532 3355 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11:30PM | price= | content=Sports bar and lounge. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=13th Floor | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barton Centre, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Make a reservation. amazing view from the 13th floor }} * {{drink | name=Arbor Brewing Company | alt=ABC | url=https://www.arborbrewing.in/ | email=info@arborbrewing.in | address=8 Magrath Rd, Allied Grande Plaza, Ashok Nagar | lat=12.97027 | long=77.61089 | directions=Opp. Garuda Mall, Magrath Rd | phone=+91 80501 44477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon to 12:30AM | price= | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=Microbrewery that serves Belgian Triple, Smooth Criminal and Brassiere Blonde. Some of the smoothest beers in town and serves pub-style food. Has a nice vibe though it gets crowded during the weekend. }} * {{drink | name=Aura | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Biere Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vittal Mallya Rd on Lavelle Road, (''opp Sunny's''). | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bangalore’s first craft brewery and a popular place for beer lovers. }} * {{drink | name=Blue Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=West End, Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=On weekends you need to buy drink-tickets for ₹1,500 to enter. | content=Excellent drinks if you make sure Joel makes them. Officially they have a couple's only policy. Spontaneous dancing likely next to the bar. }} * {{drink | name=Hint | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th Floor, Bangalore Central, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Tuesdays is ladies night (couples permitted). }} * {{drink | name=iBar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Kosmo (Formerly Cosmo Village) | alt= | url= | email= | address=81 Ali Askar Road Cross (''Off Cunningham Road'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=3 separate areas including a terrace. This nightclub is a remodeled colonial villa on a quiet lane, with excellent DJs and expensive drinks, and attracts a wealthy clientele. }} * {{drink | name=Taika | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St. (''Off Brigade Rd'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Usually open past midnight and has a huge dance floor. 3 bars and a lounge area. Entrance varies each night. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Citizen Lodge | url= | email= | address=Lady Curzon Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Bowring Hospital, about {{km|1}} from MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double non-A/C room costs around from ₹850 | content=Bare bones motel-style establishment is well located but leaves much to be desired in terms of cleanliness and overall quality. }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel 29th Church's Inn | alt = formerly Church Street Inn | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-bangalore/fabhotel-29th-church-inn-mg-road.html | email= | address=#29th Church Street, off M.G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 70424 24242 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Manju Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22200679 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Naga Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41220539 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Omshakthi palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 26707927 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Retirement Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Central Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-05-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Mount Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakkal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41580000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Royal Regency Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.royalregencylodge.com | email= | address=S. C. Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Movieland theater | phone=+91 80 4113 0202 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹1500? | content=Clean rooms and convenient to the city’s local transports like the City bus station and the City Railway Station. }} * {{sleep | name=T.A.P. Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road Avenue Road; cross near Abhinay Theatre & Menaka Theatre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22280522 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=U. G. Classic | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=UG Deluxe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Majestic, Thulsi Thotta | lat= | long= | directions=stop near the small road opposite Upparpet Police station and next to Navaruchi restaurant, then take right and then immediate left on a small lane and at the end of it take right and you will see the lodge on your right | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=A/C rooms - ₹750, Non-A/C rooms - ₹550 | content=You may want to take an auto instead of walking down if you are going after a rainy day as your shoes will get dirty. }} * {{sleep | name=Vardhaman Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ganesh Lodge Building OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026707552 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹320 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=YMCA | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nrupathunga Rd | lat=12.97109 | long=77.58765 | directions=Near Cubbon Park | phone=+91 80 2221 1848 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=No-frills hotel. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Ajantha | alt= | url=http://hotelajantha.in/ | email=reservation@hotelajantha.in | address=22 Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 4321 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Sgl/dbl from ₹1500/₹1900, Cottage A/C ₹2700 | content=Good simple hotel with a vegetarian restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western The Capitol | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raj Bhavan Rd | lat=12.98246 | long=77.59450 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2228 1234, +91 80 2228 1800 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Fortune Park JP Celestial | url=http://www.fortunehotels.in/hotel/Bengaluru-Fortune_Park_JP_Celestial.aspx | email= | address=Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4044-1234 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bangalore Gate | alt=res@bangaloregate.com | url=http://www.hotelbangaloregate.com/ | email=book@hotelbangaloregate.com | address=9 and 12, Gajanana Towers, K G Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 99 4533 3999 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout= noon | price=₹3,600-4,800 | content=Executive, superior and premium rooms. All rooms are A/C with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. 24-hour room service, 2 restaurants, ample car parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komfort Terraces | alt= | url=http://komfortgrouphotels.com/ | email= | address=No 301, 3rd floor, Bluemoon Complex M G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4009 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout=noon | price=₹2381 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel St. Marks | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vrindavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=off MG Rd and very near to MG. Rd/Brigade Rd junction | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Nice hotel with great South Indian food. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Woodlands | alt= | url= | email= | address=No 5, Rajaram Mohan Roy Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Richmond Circle | phone=+91 80 2222 5111 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Very clean hotel, great views of the city, delicious free South Indian breakfast buffet for ₹3,400 per night for an A/C double (two single beds pushed together). Nice location for exploring the city. Long walk to M.G. Road, Garuda Mall, and Commercial Street. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Heritage Block, the Taj West End, Bangalore.jpg|thumb|Taj West End]] * {{sleep | name=Chancery Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96582 | long=77.59868 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=About $200 | content=Nice business hotel, good service and food }} * {{sleep | name=The Gateway Hotel, Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/gateway/residency-road-bangalore/ | email=gateway.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=66, Residency Road | lat=12.976750 | long=77.575280 | directions= | phone=+91 8066604545 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-21 | content=The Gateway Hotel Bengaluru is among the top hotels in the city and has won the National Tourism Award for three years in a row. }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Gardenia | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcgardenia-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96697 | long=77.59556 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2211 9898 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402720 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Windsor | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcwindsor-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=25, Golf Course Rd | lat=12.99414 | long=77.58597 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2226 9898 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹17,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru | alt= | url= | email= | address=24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd | lat=12.97245 | long=77.59479 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6718-9999 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹15,340-27,140 | wikidata=Q111402713 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lalit Ashok Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.nivalink.com/grandbangalore/ | email=grandashok@nivalink.com | address=Kumara Krupa High Grounds | lat=12.99225 | long=77.58188 | directions= | phone=+91 80 22 2404 2211 9 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi | alt= | url=http://www.oberoibangalore.com/index.asp?leftinfo=1&leftitem=1 | email= | address=37-39 MG Rd | lat=12.97332 | long=77.618164 | directions= | phone=+91 80 25585858 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402705 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com/banglore_home.htm | email=resv.blr@theparkhotels.com | address=14/7 MG Rd | lat=12.97391 | long=77.61961 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402703 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Bengaluru City Center | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-bengaluru-city-center | email= | address= | lat=12.976319 | long=77.61953 | directions= | phone=+91 80 62210103 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402698 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Taj MG Road | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-mgroad-bengaluru/ | email=reservations.mgroad@tajhotels.com | address=41/3 MG Rd | lat=12.97328 | long=77.61985 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6660-4444 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402704 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj West End | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/ | email=westend.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=Race Course Rd | lat=12.98 | long=77.58 | directions= | phone=+91 80 5660-5660 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64343188 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Nestled amidst 20 acres of flora and defined by its illustrious heritage and colonial charm. Started by the Bronsons as a 10-room inn in 1887, it now has 117 magnificent rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Bengaluru Residency Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9725 | long=77.60857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402710 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} 1nb3robce6tnxakrhuvojlafzn39rgk 5091212 5091211 2025-07-11T06:01:01Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Natural attractions */ Updated listing for Government Aquarium 5091212 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=Central Bangalore}} '''Central Bangalore''' is the heart of the city. It contains the original mud fort, the old neighbourhoods and the British-era cantonment. For a long time, it ''was'' the city, or rather the agglomeration of two cities: Bangalore Pete and Bangalore Cantonment. The older Pete has narrow alleys and dense living, while the newer Cantonment has wide streets and more greenery. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.975|77.598|width=700|height=550|zoom=14|name=Map of Central Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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===By metro=== The '''Purple Line''' {{rint|bangalore|purple}} serves the entire Central Bangalore east-west, from Mahatma Gandhi Road to KSR station. The '''Green Line''' {{rint|bangalore|green}} runs across the district north-south, serving Majestic, Chickpet and KR Market. Majestic is the interchange of Purple and Green lines. ==See== [[File:Tipu Palace bangalore.JPG|thumb|Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.962875 | long=77.575956 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q4855049 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Built in 1537. A small part with massive granite walls, big gates, a dungeon and a small Ganesha temple is still intact. Check out the stone carving high up on the wall to your left after entering the massive wooden door. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Centre | alt=Visvesvaraya Towers | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.982425 | long=77.595785 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q130215606 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government office complex, built on the site of the house of Sir M. Visvesvaraya after his death. Initially constructed for the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), it was later bought by the state government to house government offices. The brutalist architecture of this high-rise building at Cubbon Park area stands in sharp contrast to the neoclassical architecture of Vidhana Soudha, Attara Kacheri and the General Post Office. The general public is not allowed into the premises, unless they have an appointment at one of the offices. }} ===Cubbon Park area=== [[File:High_Court_of_Karnataka,_Bangalore_MMK.jpg|thumb|Attara Kacheri]] [[File:Government Museum Bangalore (48186334876).jpg|thumb|Government Museum]] [[File:Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.jpg|thumbnail|Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum]] * {{see | name=Attara Kacheri | alt= | url=http://hck.gov.in/ | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.978056 | long=77.5925 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q104755615 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A two-storey neoclassical red-painted stone and brick building, hosting the High Court of Karnataka. It was previously a secretariat of eighteen departments, built under the reign of king Devaraja Wadiyar II in 1701. The main structure of the building is surrounded on all sides by porticoes and verandahs. The entire building is surfaced with plaster and painted with red ochre. It houses a law museum the houses an original print of the Constitution of India, articles and documents related to the legal profession, seals, insignia and books. It also showcases the history of the Karnataka High Court and the development of courts over the ages. }} * {{see | name=General Post Office | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9813 | long=77.595 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q64212872 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Its first floor contains a philatelic museum. }} * {{see | name=Kingfisher Towers | alt= | url= | email= | address=UB City | lat=12.97283 | long=77.59701 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | image=Kingfisher Towers Bangalore.jpg | lastedit=2024-12-11 | content=Probably the most famous high-rise residential building in Bangalore, despite not being the tallest in the city. The top of the building is occupied by a mansion, which is one of the few instances of a "building atop a building" in India. }} * {{see | name=Government Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9747 | long=77.5958 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q372869 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Established in 1865, the museum is flanked by the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum and the Venkatappa Art Gallery. It is an archaeological museum with a rare collection of archaeological and geological artefacts, including old jewellery, sculpture, coins and inscriptions. The museum is also home to the Halmidi inscription, the earliest writing in Kannada (450 CE). }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address=22, Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-7:30PM | price=2 free exhibitions, 2 paid exhibitions (₹150 combined) | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This museum presents 4 exhibitions (2 free and 2 paid, ₹150) and contains a café, restaurant and library over 5 stories. It's well worth a visit and takes about 2 hours. }} * {{see | name=Seshadari Iyer Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.9746 | long=77.5907 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-14 | content=A distinctive red sandstone building, hosting the State Central Library. }} * {{see | name=Venkatappa Art Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kasturba Rd | lat=12.974236 | long=77.595302 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24950240 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content= }} * {{see | name=Vidhana Soudha | alt=Karnataka Legislative Assembly | url= | email= | address=Dr Ambedkar Rd | lat=12.979693 | long=77.590658 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q283257 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=This granite building houses the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. It was built during the tenure of K. Hanumanthaiya, Chief Minister of Mysore State (1951–1956). A marvel of neo-Dravidian architecture, and one of the most imposing buildings in India. One of the interesting features of this building are the grand stairs in its front. The steps of the grand stairs are {{m|62}} wide and {{m|21}} deep, giving direct access to the foyer of the first floor leading to an assembly chamber. The architecture comprises of Dravidian richly carved bases and capitals for pillars, deep friezes, kapotha cornices, chaithya arches, heavy pediments domical finials. At the same time, the construction uses modern designs, making use of present-day materials like steel, reinforced concrete, glass, and plastic. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the ground or the building. It can only be viewed from the road and footpath outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Vikasa Soudha | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.978318 | long=77.589297 | directions=metro: {{station|Vidhana Soudha|city=bangalore|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q65109682 | lastedit=2023-02-17 | content=Located next to Vidhana Soudha, built in the same classic style. It was inaugurated in 2005. General public and tourists are not allowed to enter the premises. It can only be viewed from outside the boundary walls. }} * {{see | name=Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum | alt=VITM | url=https://www.vismuseum.gov.in/ | email=vitmuseum@gmail.com | address= | lat=12.9751 | long=77.5964 | directions=metro: {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+91 80-22866200 | tollfree= | hours=10AM-5:30PM (closed in Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali) | price= | wikidata=Q3537014 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Contains many fun learning activities and exhibitions that can be enjoyed by adults and children. Most exhibits are based on simple science, but some have industrial applications. For general visitors entry fee is ₹40. Some groups receive discounts (organised school groups, BPL Category when showing valid BPL card, etc). Entry is free for military and police personnel in uniform, the physically challenged, and children below 5 years of age. There is also a 3D show costing an extra ₹25 (for general public). }} ===Museums and galleries=== * {{see | name=Gandhi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kumara Park E | lat=12.988117 | long=77.579826 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q60771806 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The museum consists of a gallery with rare photographs of Mahatma Gandhi and letters written by him, a library and an auditorium. It serves as a venue for meetings organised on Gandhian values in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=J's La Quill Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content= }} * {{see | name=Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakachitrakalaparishath.com/index.php#gallery | email= | address= | lat=12.989167 | long=77.578367 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6372843 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A visual art complex with 18 galleries, 13 of which carry a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures and folk art. The folk art collection showcases Mysore paintings and leather puppets. }} * {{see | name=Kempegowda Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.974092 | long=77.610754 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=9AM–5PM (closed Su) | price=Free | wikidata=Q6387055 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=A government museum dedicated to Bangalore's founder Kempe Gowda. It is housed in the Mayo Hall, which was built in memory of Lord Mayo, the 4th Viceroy of India. This two-storey building is known for its ornate furniture and architecture. It is adorned by chandeliers, Greek cornices, Tuscan columns, stone arches, wooden floors and beautiful furnishings. The building itself offers a panoramic view of the city's Parade Grounds and Ulsoor Lake on one side, and the Bangalore Race Course and Brigade Grounds on the south. }} * {{see | name=Museum of Art & Photography | alt=MAP | url=https://map-india.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.974549 | long=77.596832 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q85787143 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A private art museum and a custodian to a collection of Indian art, textiles, photography, craft, and design objects spanning from the twelfth century to the present. MAP has more than 20,000 artworks, predominantly from the Indian subcontinent, in its collection that are organised into six departments: Modern and Contemporary Art, Photography, Living Traditions, Popular Culture, Pre-Modern Art and Textiles, Craft and Design. The collection includes works by Indian modernists, as well as Indian artists. In addition, the vast collection includes photographs and works by indigenous artists. }} * {{see | name=National Military Memorial | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.985521 | long=77.590458 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q18379547 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=A memorial-cum-museum dedicated to the personnel and families of martyrs who have died in the service of the nation. The collection in the museum include mockups of missiles like AKASH, Prithvi and BrahMos and rockets like Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). }} * {{see | name=National Gallery of Modern Art | alt=NGMA | url=http://ngmaindia.gov.in/ngma_bangaluru.asp | email= | address=49, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd | lat=12.989705 | long=77.58815 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Sa Su 11AM-7:30PM, Tu-F 11AM-6PM | price=₹20 for Indian citizens, ₹500 for foreigners | wikidata=Q17077814 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The National Gallery of Modern Art houses an auditorium, café, shop and exhibitions of modern and contemporary art in a beautiful building. The gallery organises and hosts talks on art and culture by speakers, seminars, film screenings as well as workshops and guided walks throughout the year. }} * {{see | name=Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Albert Victor Rd | lat=12.959494 | long=77.573572 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}} | phone=+91 80 2670 6836 | tollfree= | hours=daily 9:30AM-5:30PM | price=₹20 for Indians/SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens and ₹250 for foreigners (tickets only available online, you will need a phone with a QR code scanner and mobile data) | wikidata=Q7809034 | lastedit=2023-01-12 | content=Dating to about 1790, it was the summer retreat for Tipu Sultan. The two-storey structure is made mostly out of wood with finely embellished balconies, pillars and arches. It contains a small museum with information on Tipu Sultan. }} ===Natural attractions=== * {{see | name=Government Aquarium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9765 | long=77.5985 | directions=at the entrance of Cubbon Park, close to VITM | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:00AM-5:30PM | price=₹150 per head for adults, ₹5 per head for students upto 10th standard, free for children below 5 | wikidata=Q31502 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=The second largest aquarium in India. It has a variety of exotic cultivable as well as marine fishes on display, including include eels, angelfish, glowlight tetra, hockey stick tetra, red-tail shark, catla, Indian tiger barb, mahseer, freshwater prawns, blue gourami, pearl gourami, goldfish, moon tail etc. }} * {{see | name=Lalbagh Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.95 | long=77.59 | directions=metro: {{station|Lalbagh|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q200711 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=Built during the reigns of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, the botanical garden is home to numerous wild species of birds and other wildlife. The garden also has a lake adjoining a large rock is home to some water birds. Flower shows are conducted annually during the weeks of Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August) to educate the public about the variety of flora and foster public interest in plant conservation and cultivation. }} ===Places of worship=== [[File:Holy Trinity Church Bangalore Entrance.jpg|thumb|The entrance to the Holy Trinity Church]] ====Churches==== * {{see | name=Holy Trinity Church | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.972118 | long=77.620622 | directions=at Trinity circle at the east end of the MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5886431 | content=A major landmark of Central Bangalore. It was built in 1851, for the British Regiment stationed in Bangalore. Built-in the English Renaissance style, the church can accommodate 700 people and is regarded as the largest military church in southern India. It has a congregation of over 450 families. }} * {{see | name=Hudson Memorial Church | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hudson Circle | lat=12.967401 | long=77.587911 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q24937604 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=Established in 1904 and named after missionary and scholar Rev. Josiah Hudson, who was responsible for opening Kannada schools in Bangalore Pete. The church attracts people of all faiths, especially in Thursdays and Sundays. }} * {{see | name=St. Andrew's Church | alt= | url=http://standrewschurch.org.in | email= | address=Cubbon Rd | lat=12.9792 | long=77.6042 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898472 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A Presbyterian church, consecrated in memory of Mary Elizabeth McGoun, wife of Col. Thomas McGoun of the 6th Madras Native Infantry. It is an example of Gothic architecture in the city, with a steeping roof of Mangalore tiles, a row of decorative ridge-tiles on the top, turreted parapets and gables, iron crested towers, intricately done plaster motifs, railings of cast iron, and pilasters and pavilions rising from the wing. }} * {{see | name=St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.parramattacathedral.org/ | email= | address= | lat=12.992679 | long=77.611314 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7588004 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=St. John's Church | alt= | url=http://stjohnschurchbangalore.com/ | email= | address= | lat=12.9918 | long=77.613 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898476 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=The fourth oldest Protestant church in the city, with a distinct red edifice and towering steeple, rising out of the leafy surroundings. There's a memorial in front of the church for its members who lost their lives in service of 'King and Empire', in World War I. }} * {{see | name=St. Mark's Cathedral | alt= | url=http://www.saintmarks.in | email= | address= | lat=12.97606 | long=77.60034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19898479 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=The sole cathedral of Bangalore is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist. It is famous for its English Baroque architecture inspired by [[London]]'s St Paul's Cathedral. The entrance has elaborate woodwork with ornate carvings. The bell is the amongst the most well-maintained church bells in India. The stained glasswork adds to the beauty of the cathedral. }} * {{see | name=St. Mary's Basilica | alt= | url=http://www.stmarysbasilica.in/ | email= | address= | lat=12.984417 | long=77.60425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7590089 | lastedit=2023-04-04 | content=The oldest church in Bangalore, and the only church in the state which has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica. It is famous for the festivities held during the St. Mary's Feast in the month of September each year, an event that attracts devotees from in and around Bangalore. The basilica is built in Gothic style with arches, ornamental motifs and stained glass windows. Multiple columns and tall spires of the basilica can be seen from quite a distance. The stained glass windows were removed during World War II and were subsequently restored in 1947. }} ====Temples==== * {{see | name=Dharmaraya Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.965444 | long=77.583389 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2065042 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=One of the oldest temples of Bangalore and also the smallest, the Temple has existed since the times of Kempe Gowda. It is on S.P. Road close to Corporation Circle, behind the LIC building. This temple is famous for the Annual Karaga Festival held every summer. The Presiding Deity is Dharmaraya (Yudishthira) & Consort Draupadi, making it a unique one of its kind. }} * {{see | name=Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.959524 | long=77.574305 | directions=metro: {{station|Krishna Rajendra Market|green}}, next to Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6433914 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A fine example of Dravidian architecture, built by Maharaja Chikkadevaraya Wodeyar. }} * {{see | name=Maha Bodhi Society Temple | url= | email= | address=No. 14, Kalidas Road, Gandhi Nagar | lat=12.97817 | long=77.58069 | directions=northwest rim of Freedom Park | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A relatively new structure, with the main shrine built as a replica of the historic stupa at [[Bodh Gaya]]. The temple grounds are very peaceful, and visitors are welcome to stroll around. In addition, the temple houses an excellent library of books on Buddhism, many of which are in English. }} * {{see | name=Someshwara Swamy Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Halasuru | lat=12.975556 | long=77.623889 | directions=close to Halasuru Police station; metro: {{station|Halasuru|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=Free | wikidata=Q16891973 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest temples of the city. The inner sanctum sanctorum is said to have been built in the 8th century by the Cholas, who ruled this place, the outer Praharam during the Hoysalas of the 11th century, while the front hall construction and the Gopuram during the Vijayanagar Empire of the 15th century. The structure resembles the various changes the temple has gone through during the period, with major additions and renovations done to preserve the temple. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Bangalore Race Course | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98235 | long=77.58094 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{do | name=Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium | alt= | url=http://www.taralaya.org/ | email=info@taralaya.org | address=Bangalore Association for Science Education, Sri T. Choudaiah Road, High Grounds | lat=12.98486 | long=77.58954 | directions=opposite Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain, Near Raj Bhavan | phone=+91 80-22379725 | tollfree= | hours=12:30-4:30PM (closed M and second Th) | price=₹35 for adults and ₹20 for school students and children (up to 16 years), children below 3 years are not allowed inside the Sky-Theatre | wikidata=Q6987903 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A very good planetarium for adults and children alike. Shows are offered in Kannada and English. Each show is about 30 minutes long. There are about 200 seats available for each show. A ticket can be used only for the show mentioned on the ticket, and is non-refundable if you miss that show. }} * {{do | name=Sir Puttanna Chetty Town Hall | alt=Bangalore Town Hall | url= | email= | address=112 JC Road | lat=12.96376 | long=77.58579 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4855080 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=A neoclassical building. The structure features a flight of steps leading to the entrance porch resting on Tuscan columns with identical columns extending on either sides. The auditorium has two floors with a total capacity of 810 seats. }} * {{do | name=Urvashi Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Lalbagh Road | lat= | long= | directions=near Lalbagh Main gate & MTR | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-08 | content=A cool remodified theatre that allows a 1st hand experience in watching movies. One of the oldest theatres and important landmark of the City }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Chitra Santhe (Paintings market) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.99053 | long=77.58234 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An annual exhibition, held on the first Sunday of every year in January, the Chitra Santhe on Kumara Krupa Road (near Golf Course) brings together artists from all across Karnataka. Paintings, pottery, and sculpture are all on an exhibition-cum-sale. The road is closed to traffic on that day, making it possible to have a leisurely stroll, admiring and buying the items. Prices range from ₹100-20,000. Bargaining is recommended, but not too hard. Pay a fair price. (Credit cards and foreign currency are rarely accepted, so carry sufficient cash in Indian currency). }} * {{do | name=Flower Show (Biannual) | alt= | url= | email= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= 9AM to 5PM | price= ₹50 entry fees | content=A bi-annual affair at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, during the Independence Day (August 15th) & Republic Day (January 26th). Various companies display their floral exhibits in this period, normally held from a week before the above-mentioned days. The main epicentre would be a Rose arrangement representing a theme, or a heritage structure, which attracts major crowd from around Bangalore. }} * {{do | name=Mango Mela | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=9AM to 5PM | price=₹30 entry fees | content=An annual affair, at the beginning of summer, the season for the king of fruits. Normally, mangoes (raw & ripe), cultivated in Bangalore Rural and Ramanagara, as well as in neighbouring Kolar and Chikballapur, are brought and kept for show as well as sale during this period, at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens. A must-visit for mango fans. }} ===Parks and stadiums=== * {{do | name=Cubbon Park | alt=Sri Chamarajendra Udyanavana | url=http://www.horticulture.kar.nic.in/cubbon.htm | email= | address= | lat=12.975 | long=77.593333 | directions=opposite to Chinnaswamy Stadium, {{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q3633776 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=A nice forested area in the city centre. The entrance from Queen's Statue forms the tourist attraction owing to the presence of the Government Aquarium and Bal Bhavan, a play area for kids. '''Puttaani Express''' a small toy train for kids, runs inside the Bal Bhavan, attracting kids from far and near. For attractions around the park, see the [[#Cubbon Park area|Cubbon Park area]] subsection of See. }} * {{do | name=Freedom Park | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.977272 | long=77.581844 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5500576 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A park built on the grounds of a prison. It is also used for public protests. }} * {{do | name=M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat=12.978806 | long=77.599556 | directions={{station|Cubbon Park|purple}} | phone=+90 80 4015 4015 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1861907 | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=With a capacity of 40,000, this is the home of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has a large and loud following. The IPL season typically is from March to May every year, matches are played in the evenings and last around 3 hours. Scour the daily newspapers for ticket information - tickets sell out a week before. }} * {{do | name=Sree Kanteerava Stadium | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.969556 | long=77.593469 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7585638 | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=A multi-purpose stadium with a running track, a volleyball court, and two outdoor rock-climbing walls. }} * {{do | name=Ulsoor Lake | alt=Halasuru lake | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.981472 | long=77.619214 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30587793 | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore, with several islands. There's a watch tower with a Chinese bell on the lake. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=SPA.ce | alt= | url=http://www.spacethespa.com | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Run by an expat Brit. Offers a variety of massages, scrubs, and facials. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Alliance Française de Bangalore | alt= | url=http://bangalore.afindia.org/ | email= | address=Thimmaiah Rd, Kaverappa Layout | lat=12.991477 | long=77.596851 | directions= | phone=+91 7899562404 | tollfree= | hours=9:30AM&ndash;5:30PM (closed S) | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Offers French language courses. }} ==Buy== * The '''UB City''' and '''Vittal Mallya Road''' are Page-3 shopping areas. You'll find brands like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Kimaya in the UB City. Vittal Mallya Road has stores like '''The Collective''' which is a shop only for men. Armani, Versace, Boss, you name it, they have it. There's even Canary Blue and Esprit on the same road. * {{buy | name=Brigade Road/M.G. Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97520 | long=77.60817 | directions=metro: {{station|MG Road|purple}} right next to the intersection of both roads | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The most popular place for tourists. These two roads are filled with shops of every kind, whether it be traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear (this is especially true for Brigade Road). Brigade Road, where British soldiers used to buy their necessities, is now the centre of yuppie Bangalore; you'll see hordes of college students on the road any time of day or night. Stores on Brigade Road include: Planet M (a huge music store with everything), Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Phillipe, Pepe Jeans, Levis, Lee, SanFrisco Jeans, Nike, and Titan (great Indian made watches). There are also many eateries on Brigade road and on the side roads that lead off it. Fast food outlets include KFC (right at the entrance), Pizza Hut (at the other end of the road), and many cafes including the Indian coffee chain Cafe Coffee Day. Also includes a tattoo studio. M.G. Road is short for Mahatma Gandhi road. }} * {{buy | name=Commercial Street | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.98219 | long=77.60824 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A legacy of the British is another shopping mecca that sells international brands (similar to Brigade road) alongside locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. In addition, it is famous for its body piercing centres. The price of goods here is very competitive and it is a great place to pick a bargain. }} * {{buy | name=Krishna Rajendra Market | alt=KR Market | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.96563 | long=77.57636 | directions=metro: {{station|KR Market|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=The city's largest vegetable and fruit market. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Gangarams Book Bureau | alt= | url=http://gangaramsbookbureau.com/ | email=gangaramsinternational@gmail.com | address=#3, Church Street, 3rd Floor | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | hours=M-Sa 10AM-8PM | price= | lastedit=2019-09-11 | content=Since 1977, a destination for booklovers with books in a diverse range from academic, professional and technical to fiction and non-fiction. }} * {{buy | name=Blossoms | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=parallel to MG Rd and nearby Coconut Grove Restaurant | phone=+91 80 255 9733 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=There are 3 full floors of those rare, hard to find old books. All 2nd hand, good condition and at low rates. }} * {{buy | name=The Bookworm | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Church Street, opposite Starbucks | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a small used book store. Good bargains on used and new books are available here. }} * {{buy | name=Crossword | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=ACR Towers, opposite Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558 2411-16 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A hot spot for books of various genres combined with seating areas, spacious racks, music and movie section, children's section and a coffee shop. A wonderful hangout to read, browse and shop. }} * {{buy | name=Elloor Library | url= | email= | address=Blue Cross Chambers, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=close to Commercial St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A circulating library that has a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, including new titles. Requires membership which includes a deposit. }} * {{buy | name=Gangarams Mg road | url= | email=gangarams@vsnl.com | address=Triumph Tower, 2nd Floor, 48 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=opposite High Gates Hotel and Mainland China; Church Street is parallel to Mahatma Gandhi ("MG") Road | phone=+91 80 2512 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=M-Sa | price= | content=A wide selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including textbooks and professional works. }} * {{buy | name=Goobes Book Republic | url=http://www.goobes.wordpress.com | email=goobesbookrepublic@gmail.com | address=46-1-1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=in the basement of Church Street Inn, Budget Hotel, near MG Rd | phone=+91 80 4112 4956 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Secondhand and new books on a wide variety of subjects and a very cost effective library option and buy back used books. }} * {{buy | name=Higginbothams | alt= | url= | email= | address=68 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7359, +91 80 2558 6574 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This bookstore has a good selection of maps, postcards, guides and novels. }} * {{buy | name=Premier Book Shop | alt= | url= | email= | address=46/1 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone=+91 80 2558 8570 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable institution that has books on every conceivable subject literally stacked from floor to ceiling. Although the store may appear to be utterly chaotic, the owner knows where every piece of his stock lies - just be careful with those elbows, a slight nudge and the whole place will come tumbling down. This store however, will shut down shortly. }} * {{buy | name=Sapna Book House | url=http://www.sapnaonline.com/ | email= | address=3rd Main Rd, near Kamat Yatri Nivas, Gandhi Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Walking distance from Majestic Bus stand | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a large bookstore, they also have branches in three other locations Sadashivnagar, Jayanagar, and Indiranagar. Sapna Book House also provides online book delivery. }} * {{buy | name=Select Bookshop | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd Behind Curzon Court Hotel | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Used to be the only old bookstore. Mr Murthy, who runs the bookstore, is one of the most knowledgeable people. His grandfather started the bookstore. He also has a collection of lithographs, stained glass paintings and collectors copies of antique books. }} * {{buy | name=The Strand book stall | alt= | url=http://www.strandbookstall.com/ | email= | address=Dickenson Rd | lat= | long= | directions=1st Floor, Manipal Centre | phone=+91 80 2558 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for the latest releases in art, design, architecture and all at good prices. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Mahendra Textiles | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4124 9900 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Sarees and dress materials from Surat, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Kerala and Sri Lanka. }} * {{buy | name=Marmalade | alt= | url= | email= | address=Magrath Rd | lat= | long= | directions=adj to Spratt Salon; left before Coffee Day, on Brigade Rd Extn | phone=+91 80 4122 1814 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of affordable young designer wear. }} * {{buy | name=Native Place | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=behind Museum Rd Post Office, Museum Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Loads of interesting merchandise, crafts made by NGOs, c/o The Only Place Restaurant. }} * {{buy | name=One G | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4123 1231 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=(Jewellery) Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Rd. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=The Cauvery Arts & Crafts Emporium | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A large store, offering a wide selection of some of Karnataka's best hand made products. The carvings made of [[Mysore]] sandalwood are an especially good buy. }} * {{buy | name=Central Cottage Industries Emporium | alt=CCIE | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A government run store promoting traditional Indian hand crafts. The CCIE has major outlets in New [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], Bangalore and [[Chennai]]. }} * {{buy | name=Chandi - The Divine Gallery | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Shop No. 12, First Floor, Public Utility Building | phone=+91 80 4112 3590, +91 80 4112 3610 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialising in Indian divine figures in all mediums. Claims to have the biggest collection of Ganeshas in town. High-quality and locally-priced wares, supposedly no pushy salesmanship. }} * {{buy | name=Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 K.S.H.D.C Complex, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 1118 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Specialises in Karnataka handicraft. }} ===Jewellery=== * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons | alt=Diamond Flagship Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=2-1 Main Cross Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Safina Plaza | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content={{convert|14000|ft2}} dedicated to the finest gold and diamond jewellery, spread over two floors. }} * {{buy | name=C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons-The Heritage Store | url=http://www.ckcsons.com | email= | address=35 & 36 Commercial St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4000 1869 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Dedicated to gold and silver. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Garuda Mall | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97004 | long=77.60968 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads. }} * {{buy | name=Safina Plaza | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.97977 | long=77.60696 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The sale capital of Bangalore, on Infantry Road. Every week there is sale going on of any type. One week it might be home furnishings and the next men's wear. Good place to find some bargains. Many exhibitions are also held here, although there are retailers here too. So for quiet shopping come here (much less crowded than the other malls). Its best to visit during end of season sales (summer, monsoon) or during festivals (New Year, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi). }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Annapoorna | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ulsoor | lat= | long= | directions=near Sai Baba Temple in Ulsoor. Need to get down at Ulsoor police station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pure vegetarian food in Tamil style. }} * {{eat | name=Bheemas | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=If you have the penchant for spice this place is meant for you. }} * {{eat | name=I-Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=The Park, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Expensive, but arguably the best Italian food in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kudla | alt= | url=http://www.ramanashree.com/ | email= | address=Ramanashree Comforts, Richmond Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For seafood, serves excellent dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Oh! Calcutta | alt= | url= | email= | address=St Mark's Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Part of a chain of restaurants across the country, and the best Bengali food available in the city albeit pricier than the other options. }} * {{eat | name=Pabrai's Fresh and Naturalle Ice Cream | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood Street, Ashok Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6453 0000 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Palms | alt= | url= | email= | address=33 Church St | lat= | long= | directions=at the Highgates Hotel | phone=+91 80 2559 7172 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Coorgi, and Malabari style. (shut for renovations) }} * {{eat | name=Queens | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church Street, opposite Amoeba | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Small restaurant but great food at reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=RRs | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A renovation of the vintage RRs, the fun doubles here with the double storeyed restaurant, one serving Andhra and the other Hyderabadi cuisines. There's also alcohol, all the more reason to indulge on a Saturday afternoon. }} * {{eat | name=Tijouri | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hotel Atria, Palace Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2220 5205 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Delicacy| url= | email= | address=105 Dickenson's road, Manipal Centre| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Majestic | url= | email= | address=(''next to Fkcci Bldg''), KG Rd| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Anupams Coastal Express | url= | email= | address=Shivananda Circle | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They make fantastic fish dishes. Neer Dosa with Chicken Pulimunchi, kori roti and chicken ghee roast are some things you really cannot miss. }} * {{eat | name=Bobby-da-Dhaba | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Lavanya Theatre, St John's Road, Near Ulsoor | lat=12.98369 | long=77.61391 | directions= | phone=+91 96 6367 8382 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=12:30PM-3:45PM, 7:30PM-11PM | price= | content=The food is good (albeit slightly oily). It basically serves paranthas (with lots of butter), chaach, kheer and a number of side dishes (most notable being their shahi paneer and rajma). You may have to wait for a while in case it is full. So it's better to go slightly early, noon for lunch and 7:30PM for dinner to avoid rush). }} * {{eat | name=Coconut Grove | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97526 | long=77.60433 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Appams and Kerala parottas with a chicken sauce dish. Their lunch offer for ₹80 is also really good. A pretty good choice for reasonably priced quality seafood. Coco-Grove the outdoor 'beer cafe' extension is also worth a look. }} * {{eat | name=Fanoos | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=adjoining Johnson Market, off Brigade Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the joints for getting sheekh (beef) rolls in Bangalore. They come in various sizes- sheekh roll, sheekh jumbo, sheekh mambo, sheekh rambo and sheekh sambo- the latter of which is almost 2 in thick. There are other options like chicken, mutton and paneer rolls as well as kababs and shawarma. ₹30-100 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Indian Coffee House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97474 | long=77.60533 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content= }} * {{eat | name=KC Das | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat=12.97588 | long=77.60179 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-24 | content=Bengali sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Kohinoor | url= | email= | address=Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves very reasonably priced Kerala Muslim style food. }} * {{eat | name=Lake View Milk Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 7410 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Excellent ice creams, club sandwiches and burgers. }} * {{eat | name=Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) | alt= | url= | email= | address=11 Lal Bagh Rd | lat=12.9551857 | long=77.58556020000003 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2222 0022, +91 80 22221706 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2018-10-27| content=One of the very old traditional breakfast places in Bangalore. There are a few people who have been having their breakfast at MTR every day for the past 15 years. Closed between 2:45-3:30PM. Expect a long wait on weekends. Traditional 12-course Karnataka lunches are also available here for around ₹90 per head. Advance reservations recommended at weekends. Rava idlis, dosas and bisi bele bath are excellent. It has maintained its quality over the years and is very famous. It is on the road perpendicular to Lal bagh main gate. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=Alibaba Cafe & Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 7163 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Frazer Town. Arabian, Persian and Bhatkali cuisine described as "An Arabian Lake in the Indian Ocean". A themed restaurant with the feel of Arabia, Persia and India. The "Shaiya Biryani" of the Bhatkali cuisine, the Al faham chicken barbecue out of the Arabian cuisine and the chicken Jujeh kabab from the Persian cuisine are all recommended. }} * {{eat | name=Caesar's Multi Cuisine Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahalakshmi Chambers, 9/2, MG Rd. | lat= | long= | directions=beside HSBC bank opposite ING Bank | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=6:30PM–11:30PM | price= | content=Indian and continental food. Classic environment. The ambience is good, though the food is a tad expensive. Parking is a problem. }} * {{eat | name=Canopy | url= | email= | address=PU Building, M.G. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Open air, multi-cuisine North-Indian food. Cooking techniques date back to the independence era offering the unique taste. Great outdoor ambiance in the middle of the central business district. ₹125-750 }} * {{eat | name=Ebony | url= | email= | address=MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions=on the 13th floor of the tallest building on MG Rd, Utility building | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Stylish eatery with excellent evening views of the city. Service is a bit slow, but the ambiance makes it worth the wait. Book ahead for a terrace seat. ₹200-400 }} * {{eat | name=Koshy's | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat=12.97579 | long=77.60147 | directions=Below Church St | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A Bangalore institution, serving a smattering of Western favorites (like fish and chips) along with the usual South Indian fare in a bohemian-for-India atmosphere. On weekends, they serve up greasy Western-style breakfast, including omelettes and Bombay (i.e, French) Toast. Appam and stew is their Sunday breakfast special and a must eat. Turn right at the entrance for the more expensive (and decidedly less charming) A/C room. ₹50-200. Smoky, with sluggish service, and not particularly clean Koshy's still has plenty of character and history but its getting harder to justify their skyrocketing prices. }} * {{eat | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Hot coffee to chilled Kingfisher beer on the tap awesome cocktails and even hand rolled Havana cigars. Salads, sandwiches, jacket baked potatoes to entrees. LRC also offers an Oxy Bar, Bangalore's first. }} * {{eat | name=Mainland China | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions=Near Museum Rd | phone=+91 80 2227 7722, +91 90 2224 5864 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Upscale Chinese food. Good, fairly authentic food and excellent service. Serves a decent lunch buffet. Also new outlet on 100ft Road, Indiranagar. ₹500-800. }} * {{eat | name=Pinxx | url= | email= | address=Manipal centre | lat= | long= | directions=off MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place for Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. ₹200-400 per head. }} * {{eat | name=Samarkand | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gem Plaza, 66, Infantry Rd | lat= | long= | directions=East of Central St | phone=+91 80 4111 3366 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=North West frontier food (i.e., kebabs, Afghani) in a kitschy atmosphere but the food is great. You will need to book on weekends. ₹300-600. }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=Blue Ginger | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/restaurants/blue-ginger/ | email= | address=Taj West End | lat= | long= | directions=just next door to Blue Bar | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=High-end Vietnamese restaurant with a beautiful setting and excellent food. }} * {{eat | name=Graze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Taj Residency, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has some of the best creative continental you will get in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=I.Talia | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Opposite 1 MG, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has the best Italian food in town }} * {{eat | name=Karavalli | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at the Gateway Hotel | phone=+91 80 2558-4545 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar, and Kerala style cuisine. Best Indian food you will get when visiting BLR. }} * {{eat | name=Monsoon | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, Old Madras Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Next to Taj Residency | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24 hr cafe with a variety of Continental Dishes, Indian, Southeast Asian and Mediterranean. Ideal location for private parties. }} * {{eat | name=Olive Beach | alt= | url= | email= | address=Wood St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A long time favourite that will serve you Italian meats and cheese in a nice setting, this is still among Bangalore's best. }} * {{eat | name=The Raj Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=ITC Windsor Manor, Golf Course Rd. | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=24/7 restaurant that offers the taste of the British Raj. Anglo-Lucknowi, Far East and Continental cuisine is served. Amongst the best in Bangalore. }} * {{eat | name=Sunny's | alt= | url= | email= | address=34 Vittal Mallya Rd | lat= | long= | directions=at Embassy Diamante | phone=+91 80 5132-9366, +91 80 5132-9391 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=About ₹1,200 for a 3-course meal for two, excluding drinks | content=Among the best restaurants in Bangalore. Try the starters, salads and pasta is fine here. Hot sandwiches for lunch. Also has a branch at Indira Nagar. }} * {{drink | name=Vaayu | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th floor, Eve Mall, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It has comfortable lounge seating, and is open air, giving some nice views over the city. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Café Coffee Day | alt= | url=http://www.cafecoffeeday.com | email= | address= | lat=12.97130 | long=77.60712 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4001 2345 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popularly known as CCD. Established in 1996, at Brigade Road, Bangalore, the chain has over 1,000 cafes throughout India. It is found all over Bangalore. }} * {{drink | name=Coffee Workers Co-op | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St's Brigade Gardens | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A venerable Bangalore institution, with waiters in traditional uniforms and customers slowly savoring the age-old tradition of coffee drinking - though there are just two choices of coffee: black or white. Have some delightful "masala dosa" here. }} * {{drink | name=Java City | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Pleasant old Bangalore atmosphere. Offers a wide variety of tea, coffee from all over the world including pizza, pasta, pastries, cookies, you name it they have it plus you get to see a unique sense of humor in their menu and on the walls. On Saturday and Sunday evenings, there is live music, rock and guitar. This place is simple, expatriate friendly and not at all pricy. There is another Java City near Lavelle Road. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Bull n Bush | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=₹500 cover charge | content=Plays hip hop, house and occasionally trance. }} * {{drink | name=The Bunker | alt= | url= | email= | address=off Residency Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Carpe Diem | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=It's a Power Metal haven. }} * {{drink | name=Ego's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Castle Street, off Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Le Rock Pub Cafe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Rest House Rd | lat= | long= | directions=off Brigade Rd | phone=+91 80 4123 1001 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Open from 10AM-11:30PM | price= | content=The latest watering hole in Bangalore. Rock music across the board screened on large plasma panels; every song can not only be heard but seen as well. Coffee, Kingfisher beer, cocktails, food and Bangalore's first oxy bar. }} * {{drink | name=New Night Watchman | alt= | url= | email= | address=Corner of Church Street and Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Little bit dingy but helpful bar staff - satellite TV has the Australia Network so you can watch Rugby Union and AFL games. }} * {{drink | name=Pecos | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/PECOS.Pubs | email= | address=Rest House Rd (''Off Brigade Road'') | lat=12.97373 | long=77.60717 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4090 5462, +91 944 982 7428 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=60s retro pub with a mural of Jerry Garcia. Often crowded on all 3 floors, including the pleasant roof-top seating area. Free popcorn with every pitcher of beer. Cards are available for frequent customers which make every tenth pitcher of beer free, but you may have to ask several times in order to acquire one and to get it updated. }} * {{drink | name=Sparks | alt= | url= | email= | address=Brigade Road Extension, next to Brigade Towers | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Styx | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=next to Cauvery Handicrafts on MG Road | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=They put the "Heavy" in heavy metal! }} * {{drink | name=Sultanate of Swing | alt= | url= | email= | address=4th floor, Garuda Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=Free entry | content=Mainly plays Rock, Retro, Heavy Metal and has a Video DJ. }} * {{drink | name=Tavern at The Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=Museum Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Windsor Pub | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vasanth Nagar (''off Mount Carmel's in Kodava Samaja Building'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A small place which serves only beer, good food and is nice for a family outing. But only limited tables. }} * {{drink | name=Zeus | url= | email= | address=#174 2nd Floor Manohar Crest, Brigade Rd | lat= | long= | directions=above Health n Glow | phone=+91 80 2532 3355 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=11AM-11:30PM | price= | content=Sports bar and lounge. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=13th Floor | alt= | url= | email= | address=Barton Centre, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Make a reservation. amazing view from the 13th floor }} * {{drink | name=Arbor Brewing Company | alt=ABC | url=https://www.arborbrewing.in/ | email=info@arborbrewing.in | address=8 Magrath Rd, Allied Grande Plaza, Ashok Nagar | lat=12.97027 | long=77.61089 | directions=Opp. Garuda Mall, Magrath Rd | phone=+91 80501 44477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours=Daily noon to 12:30AM | price= | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=Microbrewery that serves Belgian Triple, Smooth Criminal and Brassiere Blonde. Some of the smoothest beers in town and serves pub-style food. Has a nice vibe though it gets crowded during the weekend. }} * {{drink | name=Aura | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cunningham Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=The Biere Club | alt= | url= | email= | address=Vittal Mallya Rd on Lavelle Road, (''opp Sunny's''). | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Bangalore’s first craft brewery and a popular place for beer lovers. }} * {{drink | name=Blue Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=West End, Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price=On weekends you need to buy drink-tickets for ₹1,500 to enter. | content=Excellent drinks if you make sure Joel makes them. Officially they have a couple's only policy. Spontaneous dancing likely next to the bar. }} * {{drink | name=Hint | alt= | url= | email= | address=5th Floor, Bangalore Central, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Tuesdays is ladies night (couples permitted). }} * {{drink | name=iBar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Park Hotel, MG Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{drink | name=Kosmo (Formerly Cosmo Village) | alt= | url= | email= | address=81 Ali Askar Road Cross (''Off Cunningham Road'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=3 separate areas including a terrace. This nightclub is a remodeled colonial villa on a quiet lane, with excellent DJs and expensive drinks, and attracts a wealthy clientele. }} * {{drink | name=Taika | alt= | url= | email= | address=Church St. (''Off Brigade Rd'') | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Usually open past midnight and has a huge dance floor. 3 bars and a lounge area. Entrance varies each night. }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Citizen Lodge | url= | email= | address=Lady Curzon Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Bowring Hospital, about {{km|1}} from MG Rd | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Double non-A/C room costs around from ₹850 | content=Bare bones motel-style establishment is well located but leaves much to be desired in terms of cleanliness and overall quality. }} * {{sleep | name=FabHotel 29th Church's Inn | alt = formerly Church Street Inn | url=https://www.fabhotels.com/hotels-in-bangalore/fabhotel-29th-church-inn-mg-road.html | email= | address=#29th Church Street, off M.G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 70424 24242 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Manju Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22200679 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Naga Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41220539 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹500 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Omshakthi palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 26707927 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹600 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Railway Retirement Room | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=inside the Central Railway Station | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-05-21 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Red Mount Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, near Tavakkal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 41580000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Royal Regency Lodge | alt= | url=http://www.royalregencylodge.com | email= | address=S. C. Rd | lat= | long= | directions=next to Movieland theater | phone=+91 80 4113 0202 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=From ₹1500? | content=Clean rooms and convenient to the city’s local transports like the City bus station and the City Railway Station. }} * {{sleep | name=T.A.P. Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hospital Road Avenue Road; cross near Abhinay Theatre & Menaka Theatre | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22280522 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹850 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=U. G. Classic | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, near Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=UG Deluxe | alt= | url= | email= | address=Majestic, Thulsi Thotta | lat= | long= | directions=stop near the small road opposite Upparpet Police station and next to Navaruchi restaurant, then take right and then immediate left on a small lane and at the end of it take right and you will see the lodge on your right | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=A/C rooms - ₹750, Non-A/C rooms - ₹550 | content=You may want to take an auto instead of walking down if you are going after a rainy day as your shoes will get dirty. }} * {{sleep | name=Vardhaman Paradise | alt= | url= | email= | address=Ganesh Lodge Building OTC Road, near Tavakal Mastan Dargah, Cottonpet, Majestic | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026707552 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹320 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=YMCA | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nrupathunga Rd | lat=12.97109 | long=77.58765 | directions=Near Cubbon Park | phone=+91 80 2221 1848 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=No-frills hotel. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=Ajantha | alt= | url=http://hotelajantha.in/ | email=reservation@hotelajantha.in | address=22 Mahatma Gandhi Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2558 4321 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Sgl/dbl from ₹1500/₹1900, Cottage A/C ₹2700 | content=Good simple hotel with a vegetarian restaurant. }} * {{sleep | name=Best Western The Capitol | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raj Bhavan Rd | lat=12.98246 | long=77.59450 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2228 1234, +91 80 2228 1800 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Fortune Park JP Celestial | url=http://www.fortunehotels.in/hotel/Bengaluru-Fortune_Park_JP_Celestial.aspx | email= | address=Race Course Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4044-1234 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Bangalore Gate | alt=res@bangaloregate.com | url=http://www.hotelbangaloregate.com/ | email=book@hotelbangaloregate.com | address=9 and 12, Gajanana Towers, K G Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 99 4533 3999 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout= noon | price=₹3,600-4,800 | content=Executive, superior and premium rooms. All rooms are A/C with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. 24-hour room service, 2 restaurants, ample car parking. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Komfort Terraces | alt= | url=http://komfortgrouphotels.com/ | email= | address=No 301, 3rd floor, Bluemoon Complex M G. Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4009 7000 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= noon | checkout=noon | price=₹2381 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel St. Marks | alt= | url= | email= | address=St. Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Vrindavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=off MG Rd and very near to MG. Rd/Brigade Rd junction | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Nice hotel with great South Indian food. }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Woodlands | alt= | url= | email= | address=No 5, Rajaram Mohan Roy Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Richmond Circle | phone=+91 80 2222 5111 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=Very clean hotel, great views of the city, delicious free South Indian breakfast buffet for ₹3,400 per night for an A/C double (two single beds pushed together). Nice location for exploring the city. Long walk to M.G. Road, Garuda Mall, and Commercial Street. }} ===Splurge=== [[File:Heritage Block, the Taj West End, Bangalore.jpg|thumb|Taj West End]] * {{sleep | name=Chancery Pavilion | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96582 | long=77.59868 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=About $200 | content=Nice business hotel, good service and food }} * {{sleep | name=The Gateway Hotel, Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/gateway/residency-road-bangalore/ | email=gateway.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=66, Residency Road | lat=12.976750 | long=77.575280 | directions= | phone=+91 8066604545 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2019-01-21 | content=The Gateway Hotel Bengaluru is among the top hotels in the city and has won the National Tourism Award for three years in a row. }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Gardenia | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcgardenia-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=Residency Rd | lat=12.96697 | long=77.59556 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2211 9898 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402720 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=ITC Windsor | alt= | url=https://www.itchotels.com/in/en/itcwindsor-bengaluru | email=reservations@itchotels.in | address=25, Golf Course Rd | lat=12.99414 | long=77.58597 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2226 9898 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹17,000 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru | alt= | url= | email= | address=24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd | lat=12.97245 | long=77.59479 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6718-9999 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹15,340-27,140 | wikidata=Q111402713 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Lalit Ashok Hotel | alt= | url=http://www.nivalink.com/grandbangalore/ | email=grandashok@nivalink.com | address=Kumara Krupa High Grounds | lat=12.99225 | long=77.58188 | directions= | phone=+91 80 22 2404 2211 9 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Oberoi | alt= | url=http://www.oberoibangalore.com/index.asp?leftinfo=1&leftitem=1 | email= | address=37-39 MG Rd | lat=12.97332 | long=77.618164 | directions= | phone=+91 80 25585858 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402705 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=The Park Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.theparkhotels.com/banglore_home.htm | email=resv.blr@theparkhotels.com | address=14/7 MG Rd | lat=12.97391 | long=77.61961 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2559 4666 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402703 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Radisson Bengaluru City Center | alt= | url=https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-bengaluru-city-center | email= | address= | lat=12.976319 | long=77.61953 | directions= | phone=+91 80 62210103 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price= | wikidata=Q111402698 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content= }} *{{sleep | name=Taj MG Road | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-mgroad-bengaluru/ | email=reservations.mgroad@tajhotels.com | address=41/3 MG Rd | lat=12.97328 | long=77.61985 | directions= | phone=+91 80 6660-4444 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402704 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj West End | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-west-end-bengaluru/ | email=westend.bangalore@tajhotels.com | address=Race Course Rd | lat=12.98 | long=77.58 | directions= | phone=+91 80 5660-5660 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q64343188 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content=Nestled amidst 20 acres of flora and defined by its illustrious heritage and colonial charm. Started by the Bronsons as a 10-room inn in 1887, it now has 117 magnificent rooms and suites. }} * {{sleep | name=Vivanta Bengaluru Residency Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9725 | long=77.60857 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q111402710 | lastedit=2023-06-12 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} 4shcg3d4guaugta37guz0esgdu6i9io 0 211490 5090738 5090028 2025-07-10T12:22:44Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ 5090738 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Bangalore Rural Muneeshwara Swamy shrine.jpg|pgname=North Bangalore}} [[File:Bangalore Palace Monument.jpg|thumb|Bangalore Palace]] '''North Bangalore''' is the northern part of the city. ==Get in== {{mapframe|13.06|77.55|zoom=12|width=500|height=500|name=Map of North Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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==See== [[File:Devanahalli_fort,_near_Bangalore.JPG|thumb|Devanahalli Fort]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Palace Rd, Vasanth Nagar | lat=12.998529 | long=77.592103 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹100/450 for Indians/foreigners and ₹675 for a still camera. This includes an audio guide that points out rooms, photos and other things | wikidata=Q3520057 | lastedit=2023-01-04 | content=Built by the Maharajas of Mysore. For many years the building was neglected as a tourist attraction but is now open to the public. This is a run-down building with paint peeling on the interior and is generally a tourist trap to be avoided. }} * {{see | name=Devanahalli Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.249569 | long=77.708366 | directions=near Bangalore Airport | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5266481 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This fort was constructed in 1501 and is in good repair and worth seeing. The birthplace of Tipu Sultan, also known as the ''Tiger of Mysore'', is near the fort. There are numerous temples within the fort with impeccable architecture, of which the Venugopala Swami Temple is the most visited and the oldest. The walls of the temple depict various scenes from Ramayana and the pillars have beautiful statues carved on them. }} * {{see | name=Mahatma Gandhi Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0822 | long=77.57627 | directions=within the University of Agricultural Science campus | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=HMT Heritage Centre & Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=HMT Colony | lat=13.05318 | long=77.55034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM-6:30PM (close Tu) | price= | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=The museum of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT). }} * {{see | name=Science Gallery Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://bengaluru.sciencegallery.com/ | email= | address=10-11, Bellary Rd, Sanjaynagar | lat=13.02561 | long=77.58463 | directions=bus: CBI | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Th 10AM-6PM, Fr-Su: 10AM-8PM, closed M | price= | wikidata=Q135094950 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=Inaugurated in 2024, this museum holds various artistic exhibitions and lectures with a view to science outreach and art-science collaborations. It does not have any permanent collection, but rather a series of temporary exhibitions each year. }} ===Temples=== * {{see | name=Ghati Subramanya | alt=ಘಾಟಿ ಸುಬ್ರಮಣ್ಯ | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.292 | long=77.543 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5555922 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The uniqueness of this temple is that the prime deity Lord Karthikeya, is found together with Lord Narasimha. According to mythology, both idols are believed to have emerged from the earth. The idol of Karthikeya with a seven headed cobra is made from a single stone. On the rear of the stone is the carving of Narasimha. }} * {{see | name=ISKCON Temple | alt= | url=https://www.iskconbangalore.org | email= | address=Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd | lat=13.009444 | long=77.550833 | directions=metro: {{station|Mahalakshmi|green}} | phone=+91 99860 77269, +91 80 23471956, +91 80 23578346 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 23578625 | hours=3:45AM-8PM | price= | wikidata=Q4500903 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A huge cultural complex built on a hillock in Rajajinagar atop scenic surroundings, is a perfect blend of modern technology and spiritual harmony. The huge cultural complex was built to promote Vedic culture and spiritual learning and abounds with shops selling devotional items and souvenirs. The annual Krishna and Balarama ''Rath Yatra'' is attended by thousands. However, due to the huge flow of foreign visitors, it has mostly become a heavily commercialised place and less of a religious centre. }} * {{see | name=Maruthi Mandir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahakalshmi Layout | lat= | long= | directions=5 min drive from ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A Hanuman Temple is opposite, in the gate of Mahalakshmi Layout. This is a rock hill with huge idols of Hanuman and Mahalakshmi temples. The annual festival of Hanuman Jayanti during December is very attractive. }} * {{see | name=Mukti Naga Temple | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakavision.com/mukti-naga-temple.php | email= | address= | lat=12.91465 | long=77.42299 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Contains the world's largest monolithic statue of Lord Naaga, about 16 feet tall and weighing 36 tons. The Mukti Naga Temple, which is run by Shri Subrahmanya Seva Trust, is in a serene ambience of Ramohalli, a village on the outskirts of the city. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Sampige Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sampige Road, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=next to Mantri Mall | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=One of the oldest theatres of Malleswaram, and an important landmark. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Aero India | alt= | url=http://www.aeroindia.in | email= | address= | lat=13.135833 | long=77.6075 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4688156 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content=Held in the second week of February every alternate year (the next one is in 2027), this is Asia's premier air show. Spanning 5 days but open to the public only on the last 3 days (F-Su), the show at Yelahanka Air Force Base in the northern part of Bangalore comprises a defence exhibition and air show. Fighter jets from around the world are on flying and on static display. Normally, there are two air shows every day - one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Tickets can be purchased online or at select outlets - scan the newspapers for more information. Purchasing a ticket at outlets requires you to show a photo identification and tickets are non-transferable. }} * {{do | name=Concerts at Bangalore Palace Grounds | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0058 | long=77.58839 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Check the local listings to see if any concerts are happening. Most international acts happen at Bengaluru Palace Grounds and the venue has hosted Metallica, The Rolling Stones, Bryan Adams, Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, Joe Satriani, Mark Knopfler, Aerosmith, Sting, Uriah Heep, Lamb of God, Megadeth, Machinehead, Scorpions among others. }} ===Lakes=== * {{do | name=Hebbal Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.046667 | long=77.586667 | directions=at the interchange of NH 44 and NH 75, local {{station|Hebbal|swr}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5695346 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=One of the three lakes created in 1537 during the rule of Kempe Gowda. }} * {{do | name=Hesaraghatta Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.15 | long=77.49 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5745519 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=A freshwater lake created in 1894 across the Arkavati River to meet the drinking water needs of the city. It is an integral part of the Greater Hesaraghatta Grassland Conservation Reserve. It is surrounded by institutions like the Government Aquarium, Government Film and Television Institute, Indian Horticultural Research Institute, Indo-Danish Poultry and Dairy farms, and [[Bangalore/North#Q7067540|Nrityagram]]. }} * {{do | name=Sankey Tank | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00991 | long=77.57479 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-05 | content=A pleasant lake }} ===Parks=== [[File:Lumbini garden , Hebbal, Bangalore 3001.JPG|thumbnail|Lumbini Garden, Hebbal]] * {{do | name=Fun World | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00669 | long=77.59113 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=An amusement park on the Bangalore Palace grounds. }} * {{do | name=HMT Area | alt= | url= | email= | address=BEL Junction | lat=13.04560 | long=77.55641 | directions={{km|18}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=This area of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) is dotted with parks and green layouts. Examples are General Ayyappa Park and Kittur Rani Chennamma Park. The J.P.Park is nearby. Lodges are available at Mathikere and Jalahalli. }} * {{do | name=J. P. Park | alt=Jayaprakash Narayan Biodiversity Park | url= | email= | address=Mathikere, Near Yashwanthpur Railway Station | lat=13.03475 | long=77.55057 | directions={{km|11}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=The third largest park in Bangalore, covering 85 acres. There are many statues of animals and provision for children's' games. The park includes four lakes, 25 acres of lawns, over 250 varieties of trees and shrubs (including select exotic and aquatic species, and a nursery), a nature centre, an exhibition plaza, and an amphitheatre. }} * {{do | name=Lumbini Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=A public park along the Nagawara Lake. It contains an eco-friendly boating park and a {{sqft|12,500}} artificial beach and children's pool. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=Ayur Sukha | alt= | url=http://www.ayursukha.com/l_banglore.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Malleswaram. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very nice, clean and professional spa in a nice neighborhood. 1 hr basic Ayurvedic treatment (massage and steam) is about ₹1,000. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Nrityagram | alt= | url=http://www.nrityagram.org | email=nrityagram@vsnl.com | address=Hesaraghatta | lat=13.161 | long=77.45 | directions={{km|28}} NW of city centre | phone=+91 80 8466313 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 8466312 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7067540 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This unique experimental village is dedicated to ''gurukula'' tradition of dance (''nritya''), music, choreography and painting. The residential school offers training in Indian classical dance forms, Odissi, Mohiniattam, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Manipuri, eight hours a day, six days a week for seven years, following the ancient Guru-shishya tradition. It is also a winner of ''rural architecture'' award. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Sampige Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00215 | long=77.57129 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=The heart of Malleswaram, connecting Sheshadripuram to IISc. Sampige Road is around {{km|2}} long, has a wide range of shops that sells books, electronic items, silk sarees, handicrafts, cloth materials, Hindu pooja materials, sweets and all the trivial things you can buy on earth. Also try Malleswaram 8th cross on Sampige road (aptly named Brigade Road of Malleswram) for a vibrant shopping experience. Sampige Road is also home to best flower market and fruits market in Bangalore. If you are tired of going to individual shops you can go to department stores such as Fabmall, Foodworld and Nilgiris. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Tata Book House | url= | email= | address=IISc | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has a large collection of technical books, on which it offers a flat 20 percent discount. Lots of books in a small place. Also worth visiting just because it is in IISc. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Arnav | alt= | url=http://www.arnav.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2656 8416 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The quaint little jewellery store at Ashoka Pillar, Jayanagar makes for very interesting jewellery buys, a range of antique, restored, contemporary and fusion jewellery are on display. They could help you design a piece of jewellery to suit your needs, an in-house jewellery consultant could help you choose your jewellery. }} * {{buy | name=Aura Creations | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shop No.3, Plot No. 2 Nandagokula Layout, Shampura Main Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 85 5363 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Designer boutique with exclusive dress materials. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Kala Madhyam Store' | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/KalaMadhyamIndia/ | email=mail@kalamadhyam.org | address=2nd floor, Flat No 2, Benson Town #77/8, Nandidurga Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Benson Cross Rd corner | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Folk and tribal art paintings, handicrafts from across India, clothing for women. Specialises in wall murals of folk and tribal art as well as terracotta. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Element Mall | alt= | url=http://elementsmall.com/ | email= | address= | lat=13.04529 | long=77.62675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19891419 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Galleria Mall | alt= | url=https://www.rmzgalleriamall.com | email= | address= | lat=13.0943 | long=77.5951 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q120125588 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Mantri Square | alt= | url=https://www.mantrisquare.com | email= | address=Malleswaram | lat=12.9916 | long=77.5708 | directions=metro: {{station|Sampige Road|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6752215 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Orion Mall | alt= | url=https://orionmalls.com/orion-mall-at-brigade-gateway | email= | address= | lat=13.011 | long=77.555 | directions=near Yeshwanthpur railway station and ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17081306 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Halli Mane | alt= | url= | email= | address=3rd Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=close to Malleswaram Circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Truly authentic and traditional Kannada style food. }} * {{eat | name=Herbs & Spices | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 Foot Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Above Planet M, 100 m north of Reliance Fresh | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On. Great pasta, pizza, and desserts. }} * {{eat | name=Janatha Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another great place, famous for its butter masala dosas and vadas. }} * {{eat | name=Kodial's | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic vegetarian Konkani cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=New Krishna Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=1st Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic Mangalorean food, reasonably priced. Try the neer dosa and badam halwa. }} * {{eat | name=Phalaamritha Ice Cream Parlour | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, 14/1 West Park Road,Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6567 5755 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves 25 super smooth home-made ice cream flavours along with health drinks, varieties of kulfis, milk shakes, ice tea, ice cream, novelties and chaats. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai Junction | alt= | url= | email= | address=No.8, Sri Sai, 60 Foot. Rd, G Block, Sahakarnagar | lat= | long= | directions=behind Big Market | phone=+91 80 41744477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Sonar Bangla | alt= | url= | email= | address=88/1, Shubh Arcade, 1st floor, 16th Cross, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 3367622 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The restaurant undertakes orders of authentic Bengali food for gourmets who fancy a whole meal and also delivers it at the doorstep. Fish is considered sacred in the coastal state and is consumed universally. So, all fish lovers can take heart as the non-vegetarian cuisine is delivered, but not served at the restaurant. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Central Tiffin Room (CTR) | alt=Shri Sagar | url= | email= | address=152, 7th Cross, 3rd Main, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat=12.99826 | long=77.56945 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2331 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-16 | content=Another landmark hotel, dishing out some divine 'Benne masala dosa', which literally melts in the mouth. Famous for its Butter Masala Dosa. }} * {{eat | name=Hotel Janatha | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Makes some of the best vada sambhar and masala dosa in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kerala Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near Syndicate Bank, Yeshwantpur Railway Road | phone=+91 9895760965 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Veena Stores | alt= | url= | email= | address=Margosa Rd, 15 Cross, Malleswaram | lat=13.00565 | long=77.56924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This place has some of the best Idlis and Vadas in this part of the world. They also make other dishes but Idli and Vada are mainstay. Don't expect to sit and eat because there is no seating. Stand and eat. Best time to go is mornings for breakfast before they run out of the day's stock. Try before 8AM although they are open some part of the day and evening. }} ===Mid-range=== *'''1947 Restaurant'''. Shop No:47, 4th Floor, 15th Cross Rd, Above Girias, Malleswaram ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Ikea Swedish Coffee Shop, Nagasandra | content= Biggest coffee shop in Bangalore with 100,000 sq.ft. floor space}} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Opus | alt= | url=http://opusbangalore.blogspot.com/ | email= | address=Palace Cross Road, near Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2344 2580 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A chilled-out, ex-pat friendly lounge with a large outdoor space. Has karaoke on most Su and W (Kroaknights) as well as regular live music and DJ dance nights. You may need to book ahead on theme nights. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=F-Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Le Meridien, Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fashion Bar is a theme bar by FTV }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Balaji Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=First Cross Rd, Behind RTO, L N Colony, Yeswanthpur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 124 620 1730 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹700 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bangalore Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8136821110, +91 6360125946 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content=Lift facility. Party hall attached. }} * {{sleep | name=Address 24 Inn | alt= | url=https://bangalores.best/stay/address-24-inn | email= | address=#54, Hebbal Kempapura, Behind Esteem Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 95177 79377 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ===Mid-range=== [[File:Jayamahal Palace Hotel P 20170221 080900.jpg|thumb|Jayamahal Palace Hotel]] * {{sleep | name=Chairman's Club & Resort | url=http://www.chairmansresort.com | email=reservation@chairmansresort.com | address=No. 14/1, Kodigehalli Main Road, Sahakar Nagar, Hebbal (near Twin Tower) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-40703703 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=24 Hours | price=Rooms & Suites, ₹2,500-7,000 | content=Best for Airport transit passengers. It has AC and Suites rooms. It has a lounge bar (Lock N' Load), indoor swimming pool, Badminton court, garden restaurant, indoor AC restaurant free Wi-Fi and a fitness centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Fantasy Golf Resort | alt= | url=http://www.fantasygolfresort.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=opp ITC-0 mins away from Bengaluru Airport | phone=+91 99 7209-2701 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Presidency | alt= | url=http://www.hotelpresidencyblr.com/ | email=enquiry@hotelpresidencyblr.com | address=No. 22 Sadahalli Gate | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2846-7175 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=24/7 reception. }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Bengaluru Hebbal | alt= | url=http://www.hojobangalore.com/ | email=reservations@hojobangalore.com | address=132, Thanisandra Main Road, Nagawara Junction | lat=13.04505 | long=77.62678 | directions=near Manyata Embassy Business Park | phone=+91 8046 4670 00 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,000-5,000 | wikidata=Q111402668 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Jayamahal Palace Hotel | alt=Arni Hall | url=http://www.jayamahalpalace.in/ | email= | address=1, Jayamahal Main Rd | lat=12.997 | long=77.5974 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4058 0444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=11AM | price=₹3,200&ndash;4,200 | wikidata=Q29026994 | lastedit=2025-06-23 | content=A heritage hotel with a formal restaurant and a Formula racing-themed bar. It was originally owned by the Jagirdar of Arni in Tamil Nadu around 1892. }} * {{sleep | name=Olde Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.oldebangalore.in | email=marketing@oldebangalore.in | address=Tarabanahalli | lat=13.19124 | long=77.6229 | directions= | phone=+91 99004 28729 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-11-27 | content=Resort and hotel, events, receptions, multi-cuisine food, corporate event facilities, conferences. }} * {{sleep | name=Prakruthi Club & Resort | alt= | url=http://www.prakruthiclub.com | email=contactus@prakruthiclub.com | address=Plot no. 12A, Hegganahalli village, Kundana Hobli | lat= | long= | directions={{km|11}} from the airport | phone=+91 80 2849 4002 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Cottages and rooms, ₹2,500-9,000 | content=Accommodation for couples, family, or corporate bookings. A conference hall that can seat 120 people and meeting facilities. Coffee shop. Lounge bar, Wi-Fi. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=FabHotel | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blrgshi-hilton-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.042421 | long=77.620765 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹18,000-21,000 | wikidata=Q121093902 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blremgi-hilton-garden-inn-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.041563 | long=77.620271 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹13,570 | wikidata=Q121091985 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/blrgs-sheraton-grand-bangalore-hotel-at-brigade-gateway/overview/ | email= | address=26/1, Dr Rajkumar Rd, Rajajinagar | lat=13.0127 | long=77.5551 | directions= | phone=+91 80 42521000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹23,800 | wikidata=Q111402679 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Yeshwantpur Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/hotels/taj-yeshwantpur-bangalore | email= | address=2275, Tumkur Rd, Phase 1, Yeshwanthpur Industrial Area | lat=13.02906 | long=77.54044 | directions=metro: {{station|Goraguntepalya|green}} | phone=+91 80 66900111 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹11,210 | wikidata=Q111402673 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} cs2hvb1m11yg4myossu4m9p9lmjm3ow 5090741 5090738 2025-07-10T12:24:53Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Splurge */ Updated listing for The Sun Suites 5090741 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Bangalore Rural Muneeshwara Swamy shrine.jpg|pgname=North Bangalore}} [[File:Bangalore Palace Monument.jpg|thumb|Bangalore Palace]] '''North Bangalore''' is the northern part of the city. ==Get in== {{mapframe|13.06|77.55|zoom=12|width=500|height=500|name=Map of North Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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==See== [[File:Devanahalli_fort,_near_Bangalore.JPG|thumb|Devanahalli Fort]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Palace Rd, Vasanth Nagar | lat=12.998529 | long=77.592103 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹100/450 for Indians/foreigners and ₹675 for a still camera. This includes an audio guide that points out rooms, photos and other things | wikidata=Q3520057 | lastedit=2023-01-04 | content=Built by the Maharajas of Mysore. For many years the building was neglected as a tourist attraction but is now open to the public. This is a run-down building with paint peeling on the interior and is generally a tourist trap to be avoided. }} * {{see | name=Devanahalli Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.249569 | long=77.708366 | directions=near Bangalore Airport | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5266481 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This fort was constructed in 1501 and is in good repair and worth seeing. The birthplace of Tipu Sultan, also known as the ''Tiger of Mysore'', is near the fort. There are numerous temples within the fort with impeccable architecture, of which the Venugopala Swami Temple is the most visited and the oldest. The walls of the temple depict various scenes from Ramayana and the pillars have beautiful statues carved on them. }} * {{see | name=Mahatma Gandhi Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0822 | long=77.57627 | directions=within the University of Agricultural Science campus | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=HMT Heritage Centre & Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=HMT Colony | lat=13.05318 | long=77.55034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM-6:30PM (close Tu) | price= | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=The museum of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT). }} * {{see | name=Science Gallery Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://bengaluru.sciencegallery.com/ | email= | address=10-11, Bellary Rd, Sanjaynagar | lat=13.02561 | long=77.58463 | directions=bus: CBI | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Th 10AM-6PM, Fr-Su: 10AM-8PM, closed M | price= | wikidata=Q135094950 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=Inaugurated in 2024, this museum holds various artistic exhibitions and lectures with a view to science outreach and art-science collaborations. It does not have any permanent collection, but rather a series of temporary exhibitions each year. }} ===Temples=== * {{see | name=Ghati Subramanya | alt=ಘಾಟಿ ಸುಬ್ರಮಣ್ಯ | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.292 | long=77.543 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5555922 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The uniqueness of this temple is that the prime deity Lord Karthikeya, is found together with Lord Narasimha. According to mythology, both idols are believed to have emerged from the earth. The idol of Karthikeya with a seven headed cobra is made from a single stone. On the rear of the stone is the carving of Narasimha. }} * {{see | name=ISKCON Temple | alt= | url=https://www.iskconbangalore.org | email= | address=Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd | lat=13.009444 | long=77.550833 | directions=metro: {{station|Mahalakshmi|green}} | phone=+91 99860 77269, +91 80 23471956, +91 80 23578346 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 23578625 | hours=3:45AM-8PM | price= | wikidata=Q4500903 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A huge cultural complex built on a hillock in Rajajinagar atop scenic surroundings, is a perfect blend of modern technology and spiritual harmony. The huge cultural complex was built to promote Vedic culture and spiritual learning and abounds with shops selling devotional items and souvenirs. The annual Krishna and Balarama ''Rath Yatra'' is attended by thousands. However, due to the huge flow of foreign visitors, it has mostly become a heavily commercialised place and less of a religious centre. }} * {{see | name=Maruthi Mandir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahakalshmi Layout | lat= | long= | directions=5 min drive from ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A Hanuman Temple is opposite, in the gate of Mahalakshmi Layout. This is a rock hill with huge idols of Hanuman and Mahalakshmi temples. The annual festival of Hanuman Jayanti during December is very attractive. }} * {{see | name=Mukti Naga Temple | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakavision.com/mukti-naga-temple.php | email= | address= | lat=12.91465 | long=77.42299 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Contains the world's largest monolithic statue of Lord Naaga, about 16 feet tall and weighing 36 tons. The Mukti Naga Temple, which is run by Shri Subrahmanya Seva Trust, is in a serene ambience of Ramohalli, a village on the outskirts of the city. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Sampige Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sampige Road, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=next to Mantri Mall | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=One of the oldest theatres of Malleswaram, and an important landmark. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Aero India | alt= | url=http://www.aeroindia.in | email= | address= | lat=13.135833 | long=77.6075 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4688156 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content=Held in the second week of February every alternate year (the next one is in 2027), this is Asia's premier air show. Spanning 5 days but open to the public only on the last 3 days (F-Su), the show at Yelahanka Air Force Base in the northern part of Bangalore comprises a defence exhibition and air show. Fighter jets from around the world are on flying and on static display. Normally, there are two air shows every day - one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Tickets can be purchased online or at select outlets - scan the newspapers for more information. Purchasing a ticket at outlets requires you to show a photo identification and tickets are non-transferable. }} * {{do | name=Concerts at Bangalore Palace Grounds | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0058 | long=77.58839 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Check the local listings to see if any concerts are happening. Most international acts happen at Bengaluru Palace Grounds and the venue has hosted Metallica, The Rolling Stones, Bryan Adams, Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, Joe Satriani, Mark Knopfler, Aerosmith, Sting, Uriah Heep, Lamb of God, Megadeth, Machinehead, Scorpions among others. }} ===Lakes=== * {{do | name=Hebbal Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.046667 | long=77.586667 | directions=at the interchange of NH 44 and NH 75, local {{station|Hebbal|swr}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5695346 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=One of the three lakes created in 1537 during the rule of Kempe Gowda. }} * {{do | name=Hesaraghatta Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.15 | long=77.49 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5745519 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=A freshwater lake created in 1894 across the Arkavati River to meet the drinking water needs of the city. It is an integral part of the Greater Hesaraghatta Grassland Conservation Reserve. It is surrounded by institutions like the Government Aquarium, Government Film and Television Institute, Indian Horticultural Research Institute, Indo-Danish Poultry and Dairy farms, and [[Bangalore/North#Q7067540|Nrityagram]]. }} * {{do | name=Sankey Tank | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00991 | long=77.57479 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-05 | content=A pleasant lake }} ===Parks=== [[File:Lumbini garden , Hebbal, Bangalore 3001.JPG|thumbnail|Lumbini Garden, Hebbal]] * {{do | name=Fun World | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00669 | long=77.59113 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=An amusement park on the Bangalore Palace grounds. }} * {{do | name=HMT Area | alt= | url= | email= | address=BEL Junction | lat=13.04560 | long=77.55641 | directions={{km|18}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=This area of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) is dotted with parks and green layouts. Examples are General Ayyappa Park and Kittur Rani Chennamma Park. The J.P.Park is nearby. Lodges are available at Mathikere and Jalahalli. }} * {{do | name=J. P. Park | alt=Jayaprakash Narayan Biodiversity Park | url= | email= | address=Mathikere, Near Yashwanthpur Railway Station | lat=13.03475 | long=77.55057 | directions={{km|11}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=The third largest park in Bangalore, covering 85 acres. There are many statues of animals and provision for children's' games. The park includes four lakes, 25 acres of lawns, over 250 varieties of trees and shrubs (including select exotic and aquatic species, and a nursery), a nature centre, an exhibition plaza, and an amphitheatre. }} * {{do | name=Lumbini Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=A public park along the Nagawara Lake. It contains an eco-friendly boating park and a {{sqft|12,500}} artificial beach and children's pool. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=Ayur Sukha | alt= | url=http://www.ayursukha.com/l_banglore.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Malleswaram. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very nice, clean and professional spa in a nice neighborhood. 1 hr basic Ayurvedic treatment (massage and steam) is about ₹1,000. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Nrityagram | alt= | url=http://www.nrityagram.org | email=nrityagram@vsnl.com | address=Hesaraghatta | lat=13.161 | long=77.45 | directions={{km|28}} NW of city centre | phone=+91 80 8466313 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 8466312 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7067540 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This unique experimental village is dedicated to ''gurukula'' tradition of dance (''nritya''), music, choreography and painting. The residential school offers training in Indian classical dance forms, Odissi, Mohiniattam, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Manipuri, eight hours a day, six days a week for seven years, following the ancient Guru-shishya tradition. It is also a winner of ''rural architecture'' award. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Sampige Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00215 | long=77.57129 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=The heart of Malleswaram, connecting Sheshadripuram to IISc. Sampige Road is around {{km|2}} long, has a wide range of shops that sells books, electronic items, silk sarees, handicrafts, cloth materials, Hindu pooja materials, sweets and all the trivial things you can buy on earth. Also try Malleswaram 8th cross on Sampige road (aptly named Brigade Road of Malleswram) for a vibrant shopping experience. Sampige Road is also home to best flower market and fruits market in Bangalore. If you are tired of going to individual shops you can go to department stores such as Fabmall, Foodworld and Nilgiris. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Tata Book House | url= | email= | address=IISc | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has a large collection of technical books, on which it offers a flat 20 percent discount. Lots of books in a small place. Also worth visiting just because it is in IISc. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Arnav | alt= | url=http://www.arnav.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2656 8416 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The quaint little jewellery store at Ashoka Pillar, Jayanagar makes for very interesting jewellery buys, a range of antique, restored, contemporary and fusion jewellery are on display. They could help you design a piece of jewellery to suit your needs, an in-house jewellery consultant could help you choose your jewellery. }} * {{buy | name=Aura Creations | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shop No.3, Plot No. 2 Nandagokula Layout, Shampura Main Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 85 5363 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Designer boutique with exclusive dress materials. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Kala Madhyam Store' | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/KalaMadhyamIndia/ | email=mail@kalamadhyam.org | address=2nd floor, Flat No 2, Benson Town #77/8, Nandidurga Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Benson Cross Rd corner | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Folk and tribal art paintings, handicrafts from across India, clothing for women. Specialises in wall murals of folk and tribal art as well as terracotta. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Element Mall | alt= | url=http://elementsmall.com/ | email= | address= | lat=13.04529 | long=77.62675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19891419 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Galleria Mall | alt= | url=https://www.rmzgalleriamall.com | email= | address= | lat=13.0943 | long=77.5951 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q120125588 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Mantri Square | alt= | url=https://www.mantrisquare.com | email= | address=Malleswaram | lat=12.9916 | long=77.5708 | directions=metro: {{station|Sampige Road|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6752215 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Orion Mall | alt= | url=https://orionmalls.com/orion-mall-at-brigade-gateway | email= | address= | lat=13.011 | long=77.555 | directions=near Yeshwanthpur railway station and ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17081306 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Halli Mane | alt= | url= | email= | address=3rd Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=close to Malleswaram Circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Truly authentic and traditional Kannada style food. }} * {{eat | name=Herbs & Spices | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 Foot Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Above Planet M, 100 m north of Reliance Fresh | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On. Great pasta, pizza, and desserts. }} * {{eat | name=Janatha Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another great place, famous for its butter masala dosas and vadas. }} * {{eat | name=Kodial's | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic vegetarian Konkani cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=New Krishna Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=1st Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic Mangalorean food, reasonably priced. Try the neer dosa and badam halwa. }} * {{eat | name=Phalaamritha Ice Cream Parlour | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, 14/1 West Park Road,Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6567 5755 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves 25 super smooth home-made ice cream flavours along with health drinks, varieties of kulfis, milk shakes, ice tea, ice cream, novelties and chaats. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai Junction | alt= | url= | email= | address=No.8, Sri Sai, 60 Foot. Rd, G Block, Sahakarnagar | lat= | long= | directions=behind Big Market | phone=+91 80 41744477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Sonar Bangla | alt= | url= | email= | address=88/1, Shubh Arcade, 1st floor, 16th Cross, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 3367622 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The restaurant undertakes orders of authentic Bengali food for gourmets who fancy a whole meal and also delivers it at the doorstep. Fish is considered sacred in the coastal state and is consumed universally. So, all fish lovers can take heart as the non-vegetarian cuisine is delivered, but not served at the restaurant. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Central Tiffin Room (CTR) | alt=Shri Sagar | url= | email= | address=152, 7th Cross, 3rd Main, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat=12.99826 | long=77.56945 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2331 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-16 | content=Another landmark hotel, dishing out some divine 'Benne masala dosa', which literally melts in the mouth. Famous for its Butter Masala Dosa. }} * {{eat | name=Hotel Janatha | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Makes some of the best vada sambhar and masala dosa in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kerala Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near Syndicate Bank, Yeshwantpur Railway Road | phone=+91 9895760965 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Veena Stores | alt= | url= | email= | address=Margosa Rd, 15 Cross, Malleswaram | lat=13.00565 | long=77.56924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This place has some of the best Idlis and Vadas in this part of the world. They also make other dishes but Idli and Vada are mainstay. Don't expect to sit and eat because there is no seating. Stand and eat. Best time to go is mornings for breakfast before they run out of the day's stock. Try before 8AM although they are open some part of the day and evening. }} ===Mid-range=== *'''1947 Restaurant'''. Shop No:47, 4th Floor, 15th Cross Rd, Above Girias, Malleswaram ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Ikea Swedish Coffee Shop, Nagasandra | content= Biggest coffee shop in Bangalore with 100,000 sq.ft. floor space}} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Opus | alt= | url=http://opusbangalore.blogspot.com/ | email= | address=Palace Cross Road, near Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2344 2580 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A chilled-out, ex-pat friendly lounge with a large outdoor space. Has karaoke on most Su and W (Kroaknights) as well as regular live music and DJ dance nights. You may need to book ahead on theme nights. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=F-Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Le Meridien, Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fashion Bar is a theme bar by FTV }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Balaji Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=First Cross Rd, Behind RTO, L N Colony, Yeswanthpur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 124 620 1730 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹700 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bangalore Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8136821110, +91 6360125946 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content=Lift facility. Party hall attached. }} * {{sleep | name=Address 24 Inn | alt= | url=https://bangalores.best/stay/address-24-inn | email= | address=#54, Hebbal Kempapura, Behind Esteem Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 95177 79377 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ===Mid-range=== [[File:Jayamahal Palace Hotel P 20170221 080900.jpg|thumb|Jayamahal Palace Hotel]] * {{sleep | name=Chairman's Club & Resort | url=http://www.chairmansresort.com | email=reservation@chairmansresort.com | address=No. 14/1, Kodigehalli Main Road, Sahakar Nagar, Hebbal (near Twin Tower) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-40703703 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=24 Hours | price=Rooms & Suites, ₹2,500-7,000 | content=Best for Airport transit passengers. It has AC and Suites rooms. It has a lounge bar (Lock N' Load), indoor swimming pool, Badminton court, garden restaurant, indoor AC restaurant free Wi-Fi and a fitness centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Fantasy Golf Resort | alt= | url=http://www.fantasygolfresort.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=opp ITC-0 mins away from Bengaluru Airport | phone=+91 99 7209-2701 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Presidency | alt= | url=http://www.hotelpresidencyblr.com/ | email=enquiry@hotelpresidencyblr.com | address=No. 22 Sadahalli Gate | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2846-7175 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=24/7 reception. }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Bengaluru Hebbal | alt= | url=http://www.hojobangalore.com/ | email=reservations@hojobangalore.com | address=132, Thanisandra Main Road, Nagawara Junction | lat=13.04505 | long=77.62678 | directions=near Manyata Embassy Business Park | phone=+91 8046 4670 00 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,000-5,000 | wikidata=Q111402668 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Jayamahal Palace Hotel | alt=Arni Hall | url=http://www.jayamahalpalace.in/ | email= | address=1, Jayamahal Main Rd | lat=12.997 | long=77.5974 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4058 0444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=11AM | price=₹3,200&ndash;4,200 | wikidata=Q29026994 | lastedit=2025-06-23 | content=A heritage hotel with a formal restaurant and a Formula racing-themed bar. It was originally owned by the Jagirdar of Arni in Tamil Nadu around 1892. }} * {{sleep | name=Olde Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.oldebangalore.in | email=marketing@oldebangalore.in | address=Tarabanahalli | lat=13.19124 | long=77.6229 | directions= | phone=+91 99004 28729 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-11-27 | content=Resort and hotel, events, receptions, multi-cuisine food, corporate event facilities, conferences. }} * {{sleep | name=Prakruthi Club & Resort | alt= | url=http://www.prakruthiclub.com | email=contactus@prakruthiclub.com | address=Plot no. 12A, Hegganahalli village, Kundana Hobli | lat= | long= | directions={{km|11}} from the airport | phone=+91 80 2849 4002 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Cottages and rooms, ₹2,500-9,000 | content=Accommodation for couples, family, or corporate bookings. A conference hall that can seat 120 people and meeting facilities. Coffee shop. Lounge bar, Wi-Fi. }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=The Sun Suites | alt= | url=https://www.thesunsuites.com | email= | address=Vinayak Nagar, Kattigenahalli | lat=13.12048 | long=77.61336 | directions= | phone=+91 90086 45090 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹2,350-₹3,200 | wikidata=Q112003297 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blrgshi-hilton-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.042421 | long=77.620765 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹18,000-21,000 | wikidata=Q121093902 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blremgi-hilton-garden-inn-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.041563 | long=77.620271 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹13,570 | wikidata=Q121091985 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/blrgs-sheraton-grand-bangalore-hotel-at-brigade-gateway/overview/ | email= | address=26/1, Dr Rajkumar Rd, Rajajinagar | lat=13.0127 | long=77.5551 | directions= | phone=+91 80 42521000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹23,800 | wikidata=Q111402679 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Yeshwantpur Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/hotels/taj-yeshwantpur-bangalore | email= | address=2275, Tumkur Rd, Phase 1, Yeshwanthpur Industrial Area | lat=13.02906 | long=77.54044 | directions=metro: {{station|Goraguntepalya|green}} | phone=+91 80 66900111 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹11,210 | wikidata=Q111402673 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} 0egxk9uuzd0rm4nd37372utg87oy2i4 5090743 5090741 2025-07-10T12:25:30Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Sleep */ 5090743 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Bangalore Rural Muneeshwara Swamy shrine.jpg|pgname=North Bangalore}} [[File:Bangalore Palace Monument.jpg|thumb|Bangalore Palace]] '''North Bangalore''' is the northern part of the city. ==Get in== {{mapframe|13.06|77.55|zoom=12|width=500|height=500|name=Map of North Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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==See== [[File:Devanahalli_fort,_near_Bangalore.JPG|thumb|Devanahalli Fort]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Palace Rd, Vasanth Nagar | lat=12.998529 | long=77.592103 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹100/450 for Indians/foreigners and ₹675 for a still camera. This includes an audio guide that points out rooms, photos and other things | wikidata=Q3520057 | lastedit=2023-01-04 | content=Built by the Maharajas of Mysore. For many years the building was neglected as a tourist attraction but is now open to the public. This is a run-down building with paint peeling on the interior and is generally a tourist trap to be avoided. }} * {{see | name=Devanahalli Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.249569 | long=77.708366 | directions=near Bangalore Airport | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5266481 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This fort was constructed in 1501 and is in good repair and worth seeing. The birthplace of Tipu Sultan, also known as the ''Tiger of Mysore'', is near the fort. There are numerous temples within the fort with impeccable architecture, of which the Venugopala Swami Temple is the most visited and the oldest. The walls of the temple depict various scenes from Ramayana and the pillars have beautiful statues carved on them. }} * {{see | name=Mahatma Gandhi Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0822 | long=77.57627 | directions=within the University of Agricultural Science campus | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=HMT Heritage Centre & Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=HMT Colony | lat=13.05318 | long=77.55034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM-6:30PM (close Tu) | price= | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=The museum of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT). }} * {{see | name=Science Gallery Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://bengaluru.sciencegallery.com/ | email= | address=10-11, Bellary Rd, Sanjaynagar | lat=13.02561 | long=77.58463 | directions=bus: CBI | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Th 10AM-6PM, Fr-Su: 10AM-8PM, closed M | price= | wikidata=Q135094950 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=Inaugurated in 2024, this museum holds various artistic exhibitions and lectures with a view to science outreach and art-science collaborations. It does not have any permanent collection, but rather a series of temporary exhibitions each year. }} ===Temples=== * {{see | name=Ghati Subramanya | alt=ಘಾಟಿ ಸುಬ್ರಮಣ್ಯ | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.292 | long=77.543 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5555922 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The uniqueness of this temple is that the prime deity Lord Karthikeya, is found together with Lord Narasimha. According to mythology, both idols are believed to have emerged from the earth. The idol of Karthikeya with a seven headed cobra is made from a single stone. On the rear of the stone is the carving of Narasimha. }} * {{see | name=ISKCON Temple | alt= | url=https://www.iskconbangalore.org | email= | address=Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd | lat=13.009444 | long=77.550833 | directions=metro: {{station|Mahalakshmi|green}} | phone=+91 99860 77269, +91 80 23471956, +91 80 23578346 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 23578625 | hours=3:45AM-8PM | price= | wikidata=Q4500903 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A huge cultural complex built on a hillock in Rajajinagar atop scenic surroundings, is a perfect blend of modern technology and spiritual harmony. The huge cultural complex was built to promote Vedic culture and spiritual learning and abounds with shops selling devotional items and souvenirs. The annual Krishna and Balarama ''Rath Yatra'' is attended by thousands. However, due to the huge flow of foreign visitors, it has mostly become a heavily commercialised place and less of a religious centre. }} * {{see | name=Maruthi Mandir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahakalshmi Layout | lat= | long= | directions=5 min drive from ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A Hanuman Temple is opposite, in the gate of Mahalakshmi Layout. This is a rock hill with huge idols of Hanuman and Mahalakshmi temples. The annual festival of Hanuman Jayanti during December is very attractive. }} * {{see | name=Mukti Naga Temple | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakavision.com/mukti-naga-temple.php | email= | address= | lat=12.91465 | long=77.42299 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Contains the world's largest monolithic statue of Lord Naaga, about 16 feet tall and weighing 36 tons. The Mukti Naga Temple, which is run by Shri Subrahmanya Seva Trust, is in a serene ambience of Ramohalli, a village on the outskirts of the city. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Sampige Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sampige Road, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=next to Mantri Mall | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=One of the oldest theatres of Malleswaram, and an important landmark. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Aero India | alt= | url=http://www.aeroindia.in | email= | address= | lat=13.135833 | long=77.6075 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4688156 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content=Held in the second week of February every alternate year (the next one is in 2027), this is Asia's premier air show. Spanning 5 days but open to the public only on the last 3 days (F-Su), the show at Yelahanka Air Force Base in the northern part of Bangalore comprises a defence exhibition and air show. Fighter jets from around the world are on flying and on static display. Normally, there are two air shows every day - one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Tickets can be purchased online or at select outlets - scan the newspapers for more information. Purchasing a ticket at outlets requires you to show a photo identification and tickets are non-transferable. }} * {{do | name=Concerts at Bangalore Palace Grounds | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0058 | long=77.58839 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Check the local listings to see if any concerts are happening. Most international acts happen at Bengaluru Palace Grounds and the venue has hosted Metallica, The Rolling Stones, Bryan Adams, Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, Joe Satriani, Mark Knopfler, Aerosmith, Sting, Uriah Heep, Lamb of God, Megadeth, Machinehead, Scorpions among others. }} ===Lakes=== * {{do | name=Hebbal Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.046667 | long=77.586667 | directions=at the interchange of NH 44 and NH 75, local {{station|Hebbal|swr}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5695346 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=One of the three lakes created in 1537 during the rule of Kempe Gowda. }} * {{do | name=Hesaraghatta Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.15 | long=77.49 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5745519 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=A freshwater lake created in 1894 across the Arkavati River to meet the drinking water needs of the city. It is an integral part of the Greater Hesaraghatta Grassland Conservation Reserve. It is surrounded by institutions like the Government Aquarium, Government Film and Television Institute, Indian Horticultural Research Institute, Indo-Danish Poultry and Dairy farms, and [[Bangalore/North#Q7067540|Nrityagram]]. }} * {{do | name=Sankey Tank | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00991 | long=77.57479 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-05 | content=A pleasant lake }} ===Parks=== [[File:Lumbini garden , Hebbal, Bangalore 3001.JPG|thumbnail|Lumbini Garden, Hebbal]] * {{do | name=Fun World | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00669 | long=77.59113 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=An amusement park on the Bangalore Palace grounds. }} * {{do | name=HMT Area | alt= | url= | email= | address=BEL Junction | lat=13.04560 | long=77.55641 | directions={{km|18}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=This area of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) is dotted with parks and green layouts. Examples are General Ayyappa Park and Kittur Rani Chennamma Park. The J.P.Park is nearby. Lodges are available at Mathikere and Jalahalli. }} * {{do | name=J. P. Park | alt=Jayaprakash Narayan Biodiversity Park | url= | email= | address=Mathikere, Near Yashwanthpur Railway Station | lat=13.03475 | long=77.55057 | directions={{km|11}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=The third largest park in Bangalore, covering 85 acres. There are many statues of animals and provision for children's' games. The park includes four lakes, 25 acres of lawns, over 250 varieties of trees and shrubs (including select exotic and aquatic species, and a nursery), a nature centre, an exhibition plaza, and an amphitheatre. }} * {{do | name=Lumbini Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=A public park along the Nagawara Lake. It contains an eco-friendly boating park and a {{sqft|12,500}} artificial beach and children's pool. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=Ayur Sukha | alt= | url=http://www.ayursukha.com/l_banglore.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Malleswaram. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very nice, clean and professional spa in a nice neighborhood. 1 hr basic Ayurvedic treatment (massage and steam) is about ₹1,000. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Nrityagram | alt= | url=http://www.nrityagram.org | email=nrityagram@vsnl.com | address=Hesaraghatta | lat=13.161 | long=77.45 | directions={{km|28}} NW of city centre | phone=+91 80 8466313 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 8466312 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7067540 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This unique experimental village is dedicated to ''gurukula'' tradition of dance (''nritya''), music, choreography and painting. The residential school offers training in Indian classical dance forms, Odissi, Mohiniattam, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Manipuri, eight hours a day, six days a week for seven years, following the ancient Guru-shishya tradition. It is also a winner of ''rural architecture'' award. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Sampige Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00215 | long=77.57129 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=The heart of Malleswaram, connecting Sheshadripuram to IISc. Sampige Road is around {{km|2}} long, has a wide range of shops that sells books, electronic items, silk sarees, handicrafts, cloth materials, Hindu pooja materials, sweets and all the trivial things you can buy on earth. Also try Malleswaram 8th cross on Sampige road (aptly named Brigade Road of Malleswram) for a vibrant shopping experience. Sampige Road is also home to best flower market and fruits market in Bangalore. If you are tired of going to individual shops you can go to department stores such as Fabmall, Foodworld and Nilgiris. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Tata Book House | url= | email= | address=IISc | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has a large collection of technical books, on which it offers a flat 20 percent discount. Lots of books in a small place. Also worth visiting just because it is in IISc. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Arnav | alt= | url=http://www.arnav.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2656 8416 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The quaint little jewellery store at Ashoka Pillar, Jayanagar makes for very interesting jewellery buys, a range of antique, restored, contemporary and fusion jewellery are on display. They could help you design a piece of jewellery to suit your needs, an in-house jewellery consultant could help you choose your jewellery. }} * {{buy | name=Aura Creations | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shop No.3, Plot No. 2 Nandagokula Layout, Shampura Main Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 85 5363 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Designer boutique with exclusive dress materials. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Kala Madhyam Store' | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/KalaMadhyamIndia/ | email=mail@kalamadhyam.org | address=2nd floor, Flat No 2, Benson Town #77/8, Nandidurga Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Benson Cross Rd corner | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Folk and tribal art paintings, handicrafts from across India, clothing for women. Specialises in wall murals of folk and tribal art as well as terracotta. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Element Mall | alt= | url=http://elementsmall.com/ | email= | address= | lat=13.04529 | long=77.62675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19891419 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Galleria Mall | alt= | url=https://www.rmzgalleriamall.com | email= | address= | lat=13.0943 | long=77.5951 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q120125588 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Mantri Square | alt= | url=https://www.mantrisquare.com | email= | address=Malleswaram | lat=12.9916 | long=77.5708 | directions=metro: {{station|Sampige Road|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6752215 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Orion Mall | alt= | url=https://orionmalls.com/orion-mall-at-brigade-gateway | email= | address= | lat=13.011 | long=77.555 | directions=near Yeshwanthpur railway station and ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17081306 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Halli Mane | alt= | url= | email= | address=3rd Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=close to Malleswaram Circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Truly authentic and traditional Kannada style food. }} * {{eat | name=Herbs & Spices | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 Foot Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Above Planet M, 100 m north of Reliance Fresh | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On. Great pasta, pizza, and desserts. }} * {{eat | name=Janatha Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another great place, famous for its butter masala dosas and vadas. }} * {{eat | name=Kodial's | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic vegetarian Konkani cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=New Krishna Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=1st Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic Mangalorean food, reasonably priced. Try the neer dosa and badam halwa. }} * {{eat | name=Phalaamritha Ice Cream Parlour | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, 14/1 West Park Road,Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6567 5755 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves 25 super smooth home-made ice cream flavours along with health drinks, varieties of kulfis, milk shakes, ice tea, ice cream, novelties and chaats. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai Junction | alt= | url= | email= | address=No.8, Sri Sai, 60 Foot. Rd, G Block, Sahakarnagar | lat= | long= | directions=behind Big Market | phone=+91 80 41744477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Sonar Bangla | alt= | url= | email= | address=88/1, Shubh Arcade, 1st floor, 16th Cross, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 3367622 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The restaurant undertakes orders of authentic Bengali food for gourmets who fancy a whole meal and also delivers it at the doorstep. Fish is considered sacred in the coastal state and is consumed universally. So, all fish lovers can take heart as the non-vegetarian cuisine is delivered, but not served at the restaurant. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Central Tiffin Room (CTR) | alt=Shri Sagar | url= | email= | address=152, 7th Cross, 3rd Main, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat=12.99826 | long=77.56945 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2331 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-16 | content=Another landmark hotel, dishing out some divine 'Benne masala dosa', which literally melts in the mouth. Famous for its Butter Masala Dosa. }} * {{eat | name=Hotel Janatha | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Makes some of the best vada sambhar and masala dosa in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kerala Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near Syndicate Bank, Yeshwantpur Railway Road | phone=+91 9895760965 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Veena Stores | alt= | url= | email= | address=Margosa Rd, 15 Cross, Malleswaram | lat=13.00565 | long=77.56924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This place has some of the best Idlis and Vadas in this part of the world. They also make other dishes but Idli and Vada are mainstay. Don't expect to sit and eat because there is no seating. Stand and eat. Best time to go is mornings for breakfast before they run out of the day's stock. Try before 8AM although they are open some part of the day and evening. }} ===Mid-range=== *'''1947 Restaurant'''. Shop No:47, 4th Floor, 15th Cross Rd, Above Girias, Malleswaram ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Ikea Swedish Coffee Shop, Nagasandra | content= Biggest coffee shop in Bangalore with 100,000 sq.ft. floor space}} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Opus | alt= | url=http://opusbangalore.blogspot.com/ | email= | address=Palace Cross Road, near Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2344 2580 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A chilled-out, ex-pat friendly lounge with a large outdoor space. Has karaoke on most Su and W (Kroaknights) as well as regular live music and DJ dance nights. You may need to book ahead on theme nights. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=F-Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Le Meridien, Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fashion Bar is a theme bar by FTV }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Balaji Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=First Cross Rd, Behind RTO, L N Colony, Yeswanthpur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 124 620 1730 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹700 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bangalore Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8136821110, +91 6360125946 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content=Lift facility. Party hall attached. }} * {{sleep | name=Address 24 Inn | alt= | url=https://bangalores.best/stay/address-24-inn | email= | address=#54, Hebbal Kempapura, Behind Esteem Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 95177 79377 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ===Mid-range=== [[File:Jayamahal Palace Hotel P 20170221 080900.jpg|thumb|Jayamahal Palace Hotel]] * {{sleep | name=Chairman's Club & Resort | url=http://www.chairmansresort.com | email=reservation@chairmansresort.com | address=No. 14/1, Kodigehalli Main Road, Sahakar Nagar, Hebbal (near Twin Tower) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-40703703 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=24 Hours | price=Rooms & Suites, ₹2,500-7,000 | content=Best for Airport transit passengers. It has AC and Suites rooms. It has a lounge bar (Lock N' Load), indoor swimming pool, Badminton court, garden restaurant, indoor AC restaurant free Wi-Fi and a fitness centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Fantasy Golf Resort | alt= | url=http://www.fantasygolfresort.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=opp ITC-0 mins away from Bengaluru Airport | phone=+91 99 7209-2701 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Presidency | alt= | url=http://www.hotelpresidencyblr.com/ | email=enquiry@hotelpresidencyblr.com | address=No. 22 Sadahalli Gate | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2846-7175 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=24/7 reception. }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Bengaluru Hebbal | alt= | url=http://www.hojobangalore.com/ | email=reservations@hojobangalore.com | address=132, Thanisandra Main Road, Nagawara Junction | lat=13.04505 | long=77.62678 | directions=near Manyata Embassy Business Park | phone=+91 8046 4670 00 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,000-5,000 | wikidata=Q111402668 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Jayamahal Palace Hotel | alt=Arni Hall | url=http://www.jayamahalpalace.in/ | email= | address=1, Jayamahal Main Rd | lat=12.997 | long=77.5974 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4058 0444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=11AM | price=₹3,200&ndash;4,200 | wikidata=Q29026994 | lastedit=2025-06-23 | content=A heritage hotel with a formal restaurant and a Formula racing-themed bar. It was originally owned by the Jagirdar of Arni in Tamil Nadu around 1892. }} * {{sleep | name=Olde Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.oldebangalore.in | email=marketing@oldebangalore.in | address=Tarabanahalli | lat=13.19124 | long=77.6229 | directions= | phone=+91 99004 28729 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-11-27 | content=Resort and hotel, events, receptions, multi-cuisine food, corporate event facilities, conferences. }} * {{sleep | name=Prakruthi Club & Resort | alt= | url=http://www.prakruthiclub.com | email=contactus@prakruthiclub.com | address=Plot no. 12A, Hegganahalli village, Kundana Hobli | lat= | long= | directions={{km|11}} from the airport | phone=+91 80 2849 4002 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Cottages and rooms, ₹2,500-9,000 | content=Accommodation for couples, family, or corporate bookings. A conference hall that can seat 120 people and meeting facilities. Coffee shop. Lounge bar, Wi-Fi. }} * {{sleep | name=The Sun Suites | alt= | url=https://www.thesunsuites.com | email= | address=Vinayak Nagar, Kattigenahalli | lat=13.12048 | long=77.61336 | directions= | phone=+91 90086 45090 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹2,350-₹3,200 | wikidata=Q112003297 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blrgshi-hilton-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.042421 | long=77.620765 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹18,000-21,000 | wikidata=Q121093902 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blremgi-hilton-garden-inn-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.041563 | long=77.620271 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹13,570 | wikidata=Q121091985 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/blrgs-sheraton-grand-bangalore-hotel-at-brigade-gateway/overview/ | email= | address=26/1, Dr Rajkumar Rd, Rajajinagar | lat=13.0127 | long=77.5551 | directions= | phone=+91 80 42521000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹23,800 | wikidata=Q111402679 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Yeshwantpur Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/hotels/taj-yeshwantpur-bangalore | email= | address=2275, Tumkur Rd, Phase 1, Yeshwanthpur Industrial Area | lat=13.02906 | long=77.54044 | directions=metro: {{station|Goraguntepalya|green}} | phone=+91 80 66900111 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹11,210 | wikidata=Q111402673 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} oa4p1y9zfwkxneur45sv4c91481i943 5091198 5090743 2025-07-11T05:42:15Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* See */ 5091198 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Bangalore Rural Muneeshwara Swamy shrine.jpg|pgname=North Bangalore}} [[File:Bangalore Palace Monument.jpg|thumb|Bangalore Palace]] '''North Bangalore''' is the northern part of the city. ==Get in== {{mapframe|13.06|77.55|zoom=12|width=500|height=500|name=Map of North Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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==See== [[File:Devanahalli_fort,_near_Bangalore.JPG|thumb|Devanahalli Fort]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Palace Rd, Vasanth Nagar | lat=12.998529 | long=77.592103 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹100/450 for Indians/foreigners and ₹675 for a still camera. This includes an audio guide that points out rooms, photos and other things | wikidata=Q3520057 | lastedit=2023-01-04 | content=Built by the Maharajas of Mysore. For many years the building was neglected as a tourist attraction but is now open to the public. This is a run-down building with paint peeling on the interior and is generally a tourist trap to be avoided. }} * {{see | name=Devanahalli Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.249569 | long=77.708366 | directions=near Bangalore Airport | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5266481 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This fort was constructed in 1501 and is in good repair and worth seeing. The birthplace of Tipu Sultan, also known as the ''Tiger of Mysore'', is near the fort. There are numerous temples within the fort with impeccable architecture, of which the Venugopala Swami Temple is the most visited and the oldest. The walls of the temple depict various scenes from Ramayana and the pillars have beautiful statues carved on them. }} * {{see | name=Makalidurga | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mahatma Gandhi Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0822 | long=77.57627 | directions=within the University of Agricultural Science campus | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=HMT Heritage Centre & Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=HMT Colony | lat=13.05318 | long=77.55034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM-6:30PM (close Tu) | price= | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=The museum of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT). }} * {{see | name=Science Gallery Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://bengaluru.sciencegallery.com/ | email= | address=10-11, Bellary Rd, Sanjaynagar | lat=13.02561 | long=77.58463 | directions=bus: CBI | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Th 10AM-6PM, Fr-Su: 10AM-8PM, closed M | price= | wikidata=Q135094950 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=Inaugurated in 2024, this museum holds various artistic exhibitions and lectures with a view to science outreach and art-science collaborations. It does not have any permanent collection, but rather a series of temporary exhibitions each year. }} ===Temples=== * {{see | name=Ghati Subramanya | alt=ಘಾಟಿ ಸುಬ್ರಮಣ್ಯ | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.292 | long=77.543 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5555922 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The uniqueness of this temple is that the prime deity Lord Karthikeya, is found together with Lord Narasimha. According to mythology, both idols are believed to have emerged from the earth. The idol of Karthikeya with a seven headed cobra is made from a single stone. On the rear of the stone is the carving of Narasimha. }} * {{see | name=ISKCON Temple | alt= | url=https://www.iskconbangalore.org | email= | address=Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd | lat=13.009444 | long=77.550833 | directions=metro: {{station|Mahalakshmi|green}} | phone=+91 99860 77269, +91 80 23471956, +91 80 23578346 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 23578625 | hours=3:45AM-8PM | price= | wikidata=Q4500903 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A huge cultural complex built on a hillock in Rajajinagar atop scenic surroundings, is a perfect blend of modern technology and spiritual harmony. The huge cultural complex was built to promote Vedic culture and spiritual learning and abounds with shops selling devotional items and souvenirs. The annual Krishna and Balarama ''Rath Yatra'' is attended by thousands. However, due to the huge flow of foreign visitors, it has mostly become a heavily commercialised place and less of a religious centre. }} * {{see | name=Maruthi Mandir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahakalshmi Layout | lat= | long= | directions=5 min drive from ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A Hanuman Temple is opposite, in the gate of Mahalakshmi Layout. This is a rock hill with huge idols of Hanuman and Mahalakshmi temples. The annual festival of Hanuman Jayanti during December is very attractive. }} * {{see | name=Mukti Naga Temple | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakavision.com/mukti-naga-temple.php | email= | address= | lat=12.91465 | long=77.42299 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Contains the world's largest monolithic statue of Lord Naaga, about 16 feet tall and weighing 36 tons. The Mukti Naga Temple, which is run by Shri Subrahmanya Seva Trust, is in a serene ambience of Ramohalli, a village on the outskirts of the city. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Sampige Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sampige Road, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=next to Mantri Mall | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=One of the oldest theatres of Malleswaram, and an important landmark. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Aero India | alt= | url=http://www.aeroindia.in | email= | address= | lat=13.135833 | long=77.6075 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4688156 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content=Held in the second week of February every alternate year (the next one is in 2027), this is Asia's premier air show. Spanning 5 days but open to the public only on the last 3 days (F-Su), the show at Yelahanka Air Force Base in the northern part of Bangalore comprises a defence exhibition and air show. Fighter jets from around the world are on flying and on static display. Normally, there are two air shows every day - one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Tickets can be purchased online or at select outlets - scan the newspapers for more information. Purchasing a ticket at outlets requires you to show a photo identification and tickets are non-transferable. }} * {{do | name=Concerts at Bangalore Palace Grounds | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0058 | long=77.58839 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Check the local listings to see if any concerts are happening. Most international acts happen at Bengaluru Palace Grounds and the venue has hosted Metallica, The Rolling Stones, Bryan Adams, Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, Joe Satriani, Mark Knopfler, Aerosmith, Sting, Uriah Heep, Lamb of God, Megadeth, Machinehead, Scorpions among others. }} ===Lakes=== * {{do | name=Hebbal Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.046667 | long=77.586667 | directions=at the interchange of NH 44 and NH 75, local {{station|Hebbal|swr}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5695346 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=One of the three lakes created in 1537 during the rule of Kempe Gowda. }} * {{do | name=Hesaraghatta Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.15 | long=77.49 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5745519 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=A freshwater lake created in 1894 across the Arkavati River to meet the drinking water needs of the city. It is an integral part of the Greater Hesaraghatta Grassland Conservation Reserve. It is surrounded by institutions like the Government Aquarium, Government Film and Television Institute, Indian Horticultural Research Institute, Indo-Danish Poultry and Dairy farms, and [[Bangalore/North#Q7067540|Nrityagram]]. }} * {{do | name=Sankey Tank | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00991 | long=77.57479 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-05 | content=A pleasant lake }} ===Parks=== [[File:Lumbini garden , Hebbal, Bangalore 3001.JPG|thumbnail|Lumbini Garden, Hebbal]] * {{do | name=Fun World | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00669 | long=77.59113 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=An amusement park on the Bangalore Palace grounds. }} * {{do | name=HMT Area | alt= | url= | email= | address=BEL Junction | lat=13.04560 | long=77.55641 | directions={{km|18}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=This area of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) is dotted with parks and green layouts. Examples are General Ayyappa Park and Kittur Rani Chennamma Park. The J.P.Park is nearby. Lodges are available at Mathikere and Jalahalli. }} * {{do | name=J. P. Park | alt=Jayaprakash Narayan Biodiversity Park | url= | email= | address=Mathikere, Near Yashwanthpur Railway Station | lat=13.03475 | long=77.55057 | directions={{km|11}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=The third largest park in Bangalore, covering 85 acres. There are many statues of animals and provision for children's' games. The park includes four lakes, 25 acres of lawns, over 250 varieties of trees and shrubs (including select exotic and aquatic species, and a nursery), a nature centre, an exhibition plaza, and an amphitheatre. }} * {{do | name=Lumbini Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=A public park along the Nagawara Lake. It contains an eco-friendly boating park and a {{sqft|12,500}} artificial beach and children's pool. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=Ayur Sukha | alt= | url=http://www.ayursukha.com/l_banglore.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Malleswaram. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very nice, clean and professional spa in a nice neighborhood. 1 hr basic Ayurvedic treatment (massage and steam) is about ₹1,000. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Nrityagram | alt= | url=http://www.nrityagram.org | email=nrityagram@vsnl.com | address=Hesaraghatta | lat=13.161 | long=77.45 | directions={{km|28}} NW of city centre | phone=+91 80 8466313 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 8466312 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7067540 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This unique experimental village is dedicated to ''gurukula'' tradition of dance (''nritya''), music, choreography and painting. The residential school offers training in Indian classical dance forms, Odissi, Mohiniattam, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Manipuri, eight hours a day, six days a week for seven years, following the ancient Guru-shishya tradition. It is also a winner of ''rural architecture'' award. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Sampige Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00215 | long=77.57129 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=The heart of Malleswaram, connecting Sheshadripuram to IISc. Sampige Road is around {{km|2}} long, has a wide range of shops that sells books, electronic items, silk sarees, handicrafts, cloth materials, Hindu pooja materials, sweets and all the trivial things you can buy on earth. Also try Malleswaram 8th cross on Sampige road (aptly named Brigade Road of Malleswram) for a vibrant shopping experience. Sampige Road is also home to best flower market and fruits market in Bangalore. If you are tired of going to individual shops you can go to department stores such as Fabmall, Foodworld and Nilgiris. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Tata Book House | url= | email= | address=IISc | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has a large collection of technical books, on which it offers a flat 20 percent discount. Lots of books in a small place. Also worth visiting just because it is in IISc. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Arnav | alt= | url=http://www.arnav.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2656 8416 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The quaint little jewellery store at Ashoka Pillar, Jayanagar makes for very interesting jewellery buys, a range of antique, restored, contemporary and fusion jewellery are on display. They could help you design a piece of jewellery to suit your needs, an in-house jewellery consultant could help you choose your jewellery. }} * {{buy | name=Aura Creations | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shop No.3, Plot No. 2 Nandagokula Layout, Shampura Main Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 85 5363 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Designer boutique with exclusive dress materials. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Kala Madhyam Store' | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/KalaMadhyamIndia/ | email=mail@kalamadhyam.org | address=2nd floor, Flat No 2, Benson Town #77/8, Nandidurga Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Benson Cross Rd corner | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Folk and tribal art paintings, handicrafts from across India, clothing for women. Specialises in wall murals of folk and tribal art as well as terracotta. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Element Mall | alt= | url=http://elementsmall.com/ | email= | address= | lat=13.04529 | long=77.62675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19891419 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Galleria Mall | alt= | url=https://www.rmzgalleriamall.com | email= | address= | lat=13.0943 | long=77.5951 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q120125588 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Mantri Square | alt= | url=https://www.mantrisquare.com | email= | address=Malleswaram | lat=12.9916 | long=77.5708 | directions=metro: {{station|Sampige Road|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6752215 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Orion Mall | alt= | url=https://orionmalls.com/orion-mall-at-brigade-gateway | email= | address= | lat=13.011 | long=77.555 | directions=near Yeshwanthpur railway station and ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17081306 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Halli Mane | alt= | url= | email= | address=3rd Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=close to Malleswaram Circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Truly authentic and traditional Kannada style food. }} * {{eat | name=Herbs & Spices | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 Foot Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Above Planet M, 100 m north of Reliance Fresh | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On. Great pasta, pizza, and desserts. }} * {{eat | name=Janatha Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another great place, famous for its butter masala dosas and vadas. }} * {{eat | name=Kodial's | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic vegetarian Konkani cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=New Krishna Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=1st Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic Mangalorean food, reasonably priced. Try the neer dosa and badam halwa. }} * {{eat | name=Phalaamritha Ice Cream Parlour | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, 14/1 West Park Road,Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6567 5755 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves 25 super smooth home-made ice cream flavours along with health drinks, varieties of kulfis, milk shakes, ice tea, ice cream, novelties and chaats. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai Junction | alt= | url= | email= | address=No.8, Sri Sai, 60 Foot. Rd, G Block, Sahakarnagar | lat= | long= | directions=behind Big Market | phone=+91 80 41744477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Sonar Bangla | alt= | url= | email= | address=88/1, Shubh Arcade, 1st floor, 16th Cross, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 3367622 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The restaurant undertakes orders of authentic Bengali food for gourmets who fancy a whole meal and also delivers it at the doorstep. Fish is considered sacred in the coastal state and is consumed universally. So, all fish lovers can take heart as the non-vegetarian cuisine is delivered, but not served at the restaurant. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Central Tiffin Room (CTR) | alt=Shri Sagar | url= | email= | address=152, 7th Cross, 3rd Main, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat=12.99826 | long=77.56945 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2331 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-16 | content=Another landmark hotel, dishing out some divine 'Benne masala dosa', which literally melts in the mouth. Famous for its Butter Masala Dosa. }} * {{eat | name=Hotel Janatha | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Makes some of the best vada sambhar and masala dosa in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kerala Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near Syndicate Bank, Yeshwantpur Railway Road | phone=+91 9895760965 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Veena Stores | alt= | url= | email= | address=Margosa Rd, 15 Cross, Malleswaram | lat=13.00565 | long=77.56924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This place has some of the best Idlis and Vadas in this part of the world. They also make other dishes but Idli and Vada are mainstay. Don't expect to sit and eat because there is no seating. Stand and eat. Best time to go is mornings for breakfast before they run out of the day's stock. Try before 8AM although they are open some part of the day and evening. }} ===Mid-range=== *'''1947 Restaurant'''. Shop No:47, 4th Floor, 15th Cross Rd, Above Girias, Malleswaram ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Ikea Swedish Coffee Shop, Nagasandra | content= Biggest coffee shop in Bangalore with 100,000 sq.ft. floor space}} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Opus | alt= | url=http://opusbangalore.blogspot.com/ | email= | address=Palace Cross Road, near Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2344 2580 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A chilled-out, ex-pat friendly lounge with a large outdoor space. Has karaoke on most Su and W (Kroaknights) as well as regular live music and DJ dance nights. You may need to book ahead on theme nights. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=F-Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Le Meridien, Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fashion Bar is a theme bar by FTV }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Balaji Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=First Cross Rd, Behind RTO, L N Colony, Yeswanthpur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 124 620 1730 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹700 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bangalore Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8136821110, +91 6360125946 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content=Lift facility. Party hall attached. }} * {{sleep | name=Address 24 Inn | alt= | url=https://bangalores.best/stay/address-24-inn | email= | address=#54, Hebbal Kempapura, Behind Esteem Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 95177 79377 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ===Mid-range=== [[File:Jayamahal Palace Hotel P 20170221 080900.jpg|thumb|Jayamahal Palace Hotel]] * {{sleep | name=Chairman's Club & Resort | url=http://www.chairmansresort.com | email=reservation@chairmansresort.com | address=No. 14/1, Kodigehalli Main Road, Sahakar Nagar, Hebbal (near Twin Tower) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-40703703 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=24 Hours | price=Rooms & Suites, ₹2,500-7,000 | content=Best for Airport transit passengers. It has AC and Suites rooms. It has a lounge bar (Lock N' Load), indoor swimming pool, Badminton court, garden restaurant, indoor AC restaurant free Wi-Fi and a fitness centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Fantasy Golf Resort | alt= | url=http://www.fantasygolfresort.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=opp ITC-0 mins away from Bengaluru Airport | phone=+91 99 7209-2701 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Presidency | alt= | url=http://www.hotelpresidencyblr.com/ | email=enquiry@hotelpresidencyblr.com | address=No. 22 Sadahalli Gate | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2846-7175 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=24/7 reception. }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Bengaluru Hebbal | alt= | url=http://www.hojobangalore.com/ | email=reservations@hojobangalore.com | address=132, Thanisandra Main Road, Nagawara Junction | lat=13.04505 | long=77.62678 | directions=near Manyata Embassy Business Park | phone=+91 8046 4670 00 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,000-5,000 | wikidata=Q111402668 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Jayamahal Palace Hotel | alt=Arni Hall | url=http://www.jayamahalpalace.in/ | email= | address=1, Jayamahal Main Rd | lat=12.997 | long=77.5974 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4058 0444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=11AM | price=₹3,200&ndash;4,200 | wikidata=Q29026994 | lastedit=2025-06-23 | content=A heritage hotel with a formal restaurant and a Formula racing-themed bar. It was originally owned by the Jagirdar of Arni in Tamil Nadu around 1892. }} * {{sleep | name=Olde Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.oldebangalore.in | email=marketing@oldebangalore.in | address=Tarabanahalli | lat=13.19124 | long=77.6229 | directions= | phone=+91 99004 28729 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-11-27 | content=Resort and hotel, events, receptions, multi-cuisine food, corporate event facilities, conferences. }} * {{sleep | name=Prakruthi Club & Resort | alt= | url=http://www.prakruthiclub.com | email=contactus@prakruthiclub.com | address=Plot no. 12A, Hegganahalli village, Kundana Hobli | lat= | long= | directions={{km|11}} from the airport | phone=+91 80 2849 4002 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Cottages and rooms, ₹2,500-9,000 | content=Accommodation for couples, family, or corporate bookings. A conference hall that can seat 120 people and meeting facilities. Coffee shop. Lounge bar, Wi-Fi. }} * {{sleep | name=The Sun Suites | alt= | url=https://www.thesunsuites.com | email= | address=Vinayak Nagar, Kattigenahalli | lat=13.12048 | long=77.61336 | directions= | phone=+91 90086 45090 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹2,350-₹3,200 | wikidata=Q112003297 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blrgshi-hilton-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.042421 | long=77.620765 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹18,000-21,000 | wikidata=Q121093902 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blremgi-hilton-garden-inn-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.041563 | long=77.620271 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹13,570 | wikidata=Q121091985 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/blrgs-sheraton-grand-bangalore-hotel-at-brigade-gateway/overview/ | email= | address=26/1, Dr Rajkumar Rd, Rajajinagar | lat=13.0127 | long=77.5551 | directions= | phone=+91 80 42521000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹23,800 | wikidata=Q111402679 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Yeshwantpur Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/hotels/taj-yeshwantpur-bangalore | email= | address=2275, Tumkur Rd, Phase 1, Yeshwanthpur Industrial Area | lat=13.02906 | long=77.54044 | directions=metro: {{station|Goraguntepalya|green}} | phone=+91 80 66900111 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹11,210 | wikidata=Q111402673 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} buzli5r9husgyvaamk2u6gfhtgas3x1 5091199 5091198 2025-07-11T05:42:31Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* See */ Updated listing for Makalidurga 5091199 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Bangalore Rural Muneeshwara Swamy shrine.jpg|pgname=North Bangalore}} [[File:Bangalore Palace Monument.jpg|thumb|Bangalore Palace]] '''North Bangalore''' is the northern part of the city. ==Get in== {{mapframe|13.06|77.55|zoom=12|width=500|height=500|name=Map of North Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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==See== [[File:Devanahalli_fort,_near_Bangalore.JPG|thumb|Devanahalli Fort]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Palace Rd, Vasanth Nagar | lat=12.998529 | long=77.592103 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹100/450 for Indians/foreigners and ₹675 for a still camera. This includes an audio guide that points out rooms, photos and other things | wikidata=Q3520057 | lastedit=2023-01-04 | content=Built by the Maharajas of Mysore. For many years the building was neglected as a tourist attraction but is now open to the public. This is a run-down building with paint peeling on the interior and is generally a tourist trap to be avoided. }} * {{see | name=Devanahalli Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.249569 | long=77.708366 | directions=near Bangalore Airport | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5266481 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This fort was constructed in 1501 and is in good repair and worth seeing. The birthplace of Tipu Sultan, also known as the ''Tiger of Mysore'', is near the fort. There are numerous temples within the fort with impeccable architecture, of which the Venugopala Swami Temple is the most visited and the oldest. The walls of the temple depict various scenes from Ramayana and the pillars have beautiful statues carved on them. }} * {{see | name=Makalidurga | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.432604 | long=77.50096 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6738639 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mahatma Gandhi Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0822 | long=77.57627 | directions=within the University of Agricultural Science campus | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=HMT Heritage Centre & Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=HMT Colony | lat=13.05318 | long=77.55034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM-6:30PM (close Tu) | price= | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=The museum of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT). }} * {{see | name=Science Gallery Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://bengaluru.sciencegallery.com/ | email= | address=10-11, Bellary Rd, Sanjaynagar | lat=13.02561 | long=77.58463 | directions=bus: CBI | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Th 10AM-6PM, Fr-Su: 10AM-8PM, closed M | price= | wikidata=Q135094950 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=Inaugurated in 2024, this museum holds various artistic exhibitions and lectures with a view to science outreach and art-science collaborations. It does not have any permanent collection, but rather a series of temporary exhibitions each year. }} ===Temples=== * {{see | name=Ghati Subramanya | alt=ಘಾಟಿ ಸುಬ್ರಮಣ್ಯ | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.292 | long=77.543 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5555922 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The uniqueness of this temple is that the prime deity Lord Karthikeya, is found together with Lord Narasimha. According to mythology, both idols are believed to have emerged from the earth. The idol of Karthikeya with a seven headed cobra is made from a single stone. On the rear of the stone is the carving of Narasimha. }} * {{see | name=ISKCON Temple | alt= | url=https://www.iskconbangalore.org | email= | address=Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd | lat=13.009444 | long=77.550833 | directions=metro: {{station|Mahalakshmi|green}} | phone=+91 99860 77269, +91 80 23471956, +91 80 23578346 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 23578625 | hours=3:45AM-8PM | price= | wikidata=Q4500903 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A huge cultural complex built on a hillock in Rajajinagar atop scenic surroundings, is a perfect blend of modern technology and spiritual harmony. The huge cultural complex was built to promote Vedic culture and spiritual learning and abounds with shops selling devotional items and souvenirs. The annual Krishna and Balarama ''Rath Yatra'' is attended by thousands. However, due to the huge flow of foreign visitors, it has mostly become a heavily commercialised place and less of a religious centre. }} * {{see | name=Maruthi Mandir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahakalshmi Layout | lat= | long= | directions=5 min drive from ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A Hanuman Temple is opposite, in the gate of Mahalakshmi Layout. This is a rock hill with huge idols of Hanuman and Mahalakshmi temples. The annual festival of Hanuman Jayanti during December is very attractive. }} * {{see | name=Mukti Naga Temple | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakavision.com/mukti-naga-temple.php | email= | address= | lat=12.91465 | long=77.42299 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Contains the world's largest monolithic statue of Lord Naaga, about 16 feet tall and weighing 36 tons. The Mukti Naga Temple, which is run by Shri Subrahmanya Seva Trust, is in a serene ambience of Ramohalli, a village on the outskirts of the city. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Sampige Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sampige Road, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=next to Mantri Mall | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=One of the oldest theatres of Malleswaram, and an important landmark. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Aero India | alt= | url=http://www.aeroindia.in | email= | address= | lat=13.135833 | long=77.6075 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4688156 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content=Held in the second week of February every alternate year (the next one is in 2027), this is Asia's premier air show. Spanning 5 days but open to the public only on the last 3 days (F-Su), the show at Yelahanka Air Force Base in the northern part of Bangalore comprises a defence exhibition and air show. Fighter jets from around the world are on flying and on static display. Normally, there are two air shows every day - one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Tickets can be purchased online or at select outlets - scan the newspapers for more information. Purchasing a ticket at outlets requires you to show a photo identification and tickets are non-transferable. }} * {{do | name=Concerts at Bangalore Palace Grounds | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0058 | long=77.58839 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Check the local listings to see if any concerts are happening. Most international acts happen at Bengaluru Palace Grounds and the venue has hosted Metallica, The Rolling Stones, Bryan Adams, Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, Joe Satriani, Mark Knopfler, Aerosmith, Sting, Uriah Heep, Lamb of God, Megadeth, Machinehead, Scorpions among others. }} ===Lakes=== * {{do | name=Hebbal Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.046667 | long=77.586667 | directions=at the interchange of NH 44 and NH 75, local {{station|Hebbal|swr}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5695346 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=One of the three lakes created in 1537 during the rule of Kempe Gowda. }} * {{do | name=Hesaraghatta Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.15 | long=77.49 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5745519 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=A freshwater lake created in 1894 across the Arkavati River to meet the drinking water needs of the city. It is an integral part of the Greater Hesaraghatta Grassland Conservation Reserve. It is surrounded by institutions like the Government Aquarium, Government Film and Television Institute, Indian Horticultural Research Institute, Indo-Danish Poultry and Dairy farms, and [[Bangalore/North#Q7067540|Nrityagram]]. }} * {{do | name=Sankey Tank | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00991 | long=77.57479 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-05 | content=A pleasant lake }} ===Parks=== [[File:Lumbini garden , Hebbal, Bangalore 3001.JPG|thumbnail|Lumbini Garden, Hebbal]] * {{do | name=Fun World | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00669 | long=77.59113 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=An amusement park on the Bangalore Palace grounds. }} * {{do | name=HMT Area | alt= | url= | email= | address=BEL Junction | lat=13.04560 | long=77.55641 | directions={{km|18}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=This area of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) is dotted with parks and green layouts. Examples are General Ayyappa Park and Kittur Rani Chennamma Park. The J.P.Park is nearby. Lodges are available at Mathikere and Jalahalli. }} * {{do | name=J. P. Park | alt=Jayaprakash Narayan Biodiversity Park | url= | email= | address=Mathikere, Near Yashwanthpur Railway Station | lat=13.03475 | long=77.55057 | directions={{km|11}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=The third largest park in Bangalore, covering 85 acres. There are many statues of animals and provision for children's' games. The park includes four lakes, 25 acres of lawns, over 250 varieties of trees and shrubs (including select exotic and aquatic species, and a nursery), a nature centre, an exhibition plaza, and an amphitheatre. }} * {{do | name=Lumbini Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=A public park along the Nagawara Lake. It contains an eco-friendly boating park and a {{sqft|12,500}} artificial beach and children's pool. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=Ayur Sukha | alt= | url=http://www.ayursukha.com/l_banglore.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Malleswaram. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very nice, clean and professional spa in a nice neighborhood. 1 hr basic Ayurvedic treatment (massage and steam) is about ₹1,000. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Nrityagram | alt= | url=http://www.nrityagram.org | email=nrityagram@vsnl.com | address=Hesaraghatta | lat=13.161 | long=77.45 | directions={{km|28}} NW of city centre | phone=+91 80 8466313 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 8466312 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7067540 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This unique experimental village is dedicated to ''gurukula'' tradition of dance (''nritya''), music, choreography and painting. The residential school offers training in Indian classical dance forms, Odissi, Mohiniattam, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Manipuri, eight hours a day, six days a week for seven years, following the ancient Guru-shishya tradition. It is also a winner of ''rural architecture'' award. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Sampige Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00215 | long=77.57129 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=The heart of Malleswaram, connecting Sheshadripuram to IISc. Sampige Road is around {{km|2}} long, has a wide range of shops that sells books, electronic items, silk sarees, handicrafts, cloth materials, Hindu pooja materials, sweets and all the trivial things you can buy on earth. Also try Malleswaram 8th cross on Sampige road (aptly named Brigade Road of Malleswram) for a vibrant shopping experience. Sampige Road is also home to best flower market and fruits market in Bangalore. If you are tired of going to individual shops you can go to department stores such as Fabmall, Foodworld and Nilgiris. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Tata Book House | url= | email= | address=IISc | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has a large collection of technical books, on which it offers a flat 20 percent discount. Lots of books in a small place. Also worth visiting just because it is in IISc. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Arnav | alt= | url=http://www.arnav.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2656 8416 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The quaint little jewellery store at Ashoka Pillar, Jayanagar makes for very interesting jewellery buys, a range of antique, restored, contemporary and fusion jewellery are on display. They could help you design a piece of jewellery to suit your needs, an in-house jewellery consultant could help you choose your jewellery. }} * {{buy | name=Aura Creations | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shop No.3, Plot No. 2 Nandagokula Layout, Shampura Main Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 85 5363 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Designer boutique with exclusive dress materials. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Kala Madhyam Store' | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/KalaMadhyamIndia/ | email=mail@kalamadhyam.org | address=2nd floor, Flat No 2, Benson Town #77/8, Nandidurga Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Benson Cross Rd corner | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Folk and tribal art paintings, handicrafts from across India, clothing for women. Specialises in wall murals of folk and tribal art as well as terracotta. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Element Mall | alt= | url=http://elementsmall.com/ | email= | address= | lat=13.04529 | long=77.62675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19891419 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Galleria Mall | alt= | url=https://www.rmzgalleriamall.com | email= | address= | lat=13.0943 | long=77.5951 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q120125588 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Mantri Square | alt= | url=https://www.mantrisquare.com | email= | address=Malleswaram | lat=12.9916 | long=77.5708 | directions=metro: {{station|Sampige Road|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6752215 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Orion Mall | alt= | url=https://orionmalls.com/orion-mall-at-brigade-gateway | email= | address= | lat=13.011 | long=77.555 | directions=near Yeshwanthpur railway station and ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17081306 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Halli Mane | alt= | url= | email= | address=3rd Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=close to Malleswaram Circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Truly authentic and traditional Kannada style food. }} * {{eat | name=Herbs & Spices | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 Foot Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Above Planet M, 100 m north of Reliance Fresh | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On. Great pasta, pizza, and desserts. }} * {{eat | name=Janatha Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another great place, famous for its butter masala dosas and vadas. }} * {{eat | name=Kodial's | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic vegetarian Konkani cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=New Krishna Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=1st Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic Mangalorean food, reasonably priced. Try the neer dosa and badam halwa. }} * {{eat | name=Phalaamritha Ice Cream Parlour | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, 14/1 West Park Road,Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6567 5755 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves 25 super smooth home-made ice cream flavours along with health drinks, varieties of kulfis, milk shakes, ice tea, ice cream, novelties and chaats. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai Junction | alt= | url= | email= | address=No.8, Sri Sai, 60 Foot. Rd, G Block, Sahakarnagar | lat= | long= | directions=behind Big Market | phone=+91 80 41744477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Sonar Bangla | alt= | url= | email= | address=88/1, Shubh Arcade, 1st floor, 16th Cross, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 3367622 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The restaurant undertakes orders of authentic Bengali food for gourmets who fancy a whole meal and also delivers it at the doorstep. Fish is considered sacred in the coastal state and is consumed universally. So, all fish lovers can take heart as the non-vegetarian cuisine is delivered, but not served at the restaurant. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Central Tiffin Room (CTR) | alt=Shri Sagar | url= | email= | address=152, 7th Cross, 3rd Main, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat=12.99826 | long=77.56945 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2331 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-16 | content=Another landmark hotel, dishing out some divine 'Benne masala dosa', which literally melts in the mouth. Famous for its Butter Masala Dosa. }} * {{eat | name=Hotel Janatha | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Makes some of the best vada sambhar and masala dosa in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kerala Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near Syndicate Bank, Yeshwantpur Railway Road | phone=+91 9895760965 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Veena Stores | alt= | url= | email= | address=Margosa Rd, 15 Cross, Malleswaram | lat=13.00565 | long=77.56924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This place has some of the best Idlis and Vadas in this part of the world. They also make other dishes but Idli and Vada are mainstay. Don't expect to sit and eat because there is no seating. Stand and eat. Best time to go is mornings for breakfast before they run out of the day's stock. Try before 8AM although they are open some part of the day and evening. }} ===Mid-range=== *'''1947 Restaurant'''. Shop No:47, 4th Floor, 15th Cross Rd, Above Girias, Malleswaram ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Ikea Swedish Coffee Shop, Nagasandra | content= Biggest coffee shop in Bangalore with 100,000 sq.ft. floor space}} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Opus | alt= | url=http://opusbangalore.blogspot.com/ | email= | address=Palace Cross Road, near Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2344 2580 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A chilled-out, ex-pat friendly lounge with a large outdoor space. Has karaoke on most Su and W (Kroaknights) as well as regular live music and DJ dance nights. You may need to book ahead on theme nights. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=F-Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Le Meridien, Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fashion Bar is a theme bar by FTV }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Balaji Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=First Cross Rd, Behind RTO, L N Colony, Yeswanthpur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 124 620 1730 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹700 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bangalore Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8136821110, +91 6360125946 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content=Lift facility. Party hall attached. }} * {{sleep | name=Address 24 Inn | alt= | url=https://bangalores.best/stay/address-24-inn | email= | address=#54, Hebbal Kempapura, Behind Esteem Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 95177 79377 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ===Mid-range=== [[File:Jayamahal Palace Hotel P 20170221 080900.jpg|thumb|Jayamahal Palace Hotel]] * {{sleep | name=Chairman's Club & Resort | url=http://www.chairmansresort.com | email=reservation@chairmansresort.com | address=No. 14/1, Kodigehalli Main Road, Sahakar Nagar, Hebbal (near Twin Tower) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-40703703 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=24 Hours | price=Rooms & Suites, ₹2,500-7,000 | content=Best for Airport transit passengers. It has AC and Suites rooms. It has a lounge bar (Lock N' Load), indoor swimming pool, Badminton court, garden restaurant, indoor AC restaurant free Wi-Fi and a fitness centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Fantasy Golf Resort | alt= | url=http://www.fantasygolfresort.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=opp ITC-0 mins away from Bengaluru Airport | phone=+91 99 7209-2701 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Presidency | alt= | url=http://www.hotelpresidencyblr.com/ | email=enquiry@hotelpresidencyblr.com | address=No. 22 Sadahalli Gate | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2846-7175 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=24/7 reception. }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Bengaluru Hebbal | alt= | url=http://www.hojobangalore.com/ | email=reservations@hojobangalore.com | address=132, Thanisandra Main Road, Nagawara Junction | lat=13.04505 | long=77.62678 | directions=near Manyata Embassy Business Park | phone=+91 8046 4670 00 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,000-5,000 | wikidata=Q111402668 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Jayamahal Palace Hotel | alt=Arni Hall | url=http://www.jayamahalpalace.in/ | email= | address=1, Jayamahal Main Rd | lat=12.997 | long=77.5974 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4058 0444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=11AM | price=₹3,200&ndash;4,200 | wikidata=Q29026994 | lastedit=2025-06-23 | content=A heritage hotel with a formal restaurant and a Formula racing-themed bar. It was originally owned by the Jagirdar of Arni in Tamil Nadu around 1892. }} * {{sleep | name=Olde Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.oldebangalore.in | email=marketing@oldebangalore.in | address=Tarabanahalli | lat=13.19124 | long=77.6229 | directions= | phone=+91 99004 28729 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-11-27 | content=Resort and hotel, events, receptions, multi-cuisine food, corporate event facilities, conferences. }} * {{sleep | name=Prakruthi Club & Resort | alt= | url=http://www.prakruthiclub.com | email=contactus@prakruthiclub.com | address=Plot no. 12A, Hegganahalli village, Kundana Hobli | lat= | long= | directions={{km|11}} from the airport | phone=+91 80 2849 4002 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Cottages and rooms, ₹2,500-9,000 | content=Accommodation for couples, family, or corporate bookings. A conference hall that can seat 120 people and meeting facilities. Coffee shop. Lounge bar, Wi-Fi. }} * {{sleep | name=The Sun Suites | alt= | url=https://www.thesunsuites.com | email= | address=Vinayak Nagar, Kattigenahalli | lat=13.12048 | long=77.61336 | directions= | phone=+91 90086 45090 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹2,350-₹3,200 | wikidata=Q112003297 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blrgshi-hilton-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.042421 | long=77.620765 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹18,000-21,000 | wikidata=Q121093902 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blremgi-hilton-garden-inn-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.041563 | long=77.620271 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹13,570 | wikidata=Q121091985 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/blrgs-sheraton-grand-bangalore-hotel-at-brigade-gateway/overview/ | email= | address=26/1, Dr Rajkumar Rd, Rajajinagar | lat=13.0127 | long=77.5551 | directions= | phone=+91 80 42521000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹23,800 | wikidata=Q111402679 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Yeshwantpur Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/hotels/taj-yeshwantpur-bangalore | email= | address=2275, Tumkur Rd, Phase 1, Yeshwanthpur Industrial Area | lat=13.02906 | long=77.54044 | directions=metro: {{station|Goraguntepalya|green}} | phone=+91 80 66900111 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹11,210 | wikidata=Q111402673 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} btwb7c4k2jvb2oa7na6pls7r0ctuszn 5091200 5091199 2025-07-11T05:43:05Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Temples */ 5091200 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Bangalore Rural Muneeshwara Swamy shrine.jpg|pgname=North Bangalore}} [[File:Bangalore Palace Monument.jpg|thumb|Bangalore Palace]] '''North Bangalore''' is the northern part of the city. ==Get in== {{mapframe|13.06|77.55|zoom=12|width=500|height=500|name=Map of North Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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==See== [[File:Devanahalli_fort,_near_Bangalore.JPG|thumb|Devanahalli Fort]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Palace Rd, Vasanth Nagar | lat=12.998529 | long=77.592103 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹100/450 for Indians/foreigners and ₹675 for a still camera. This includes an audio guide that points out rooms, photos and other things | wikidata=Q3520057 | lastedit=2023-01-04 | content=Built by the Maharajas of Mysore. For many years the building was neglected as a tourist attraction but is now open to the public. This is a run-down building with paint peeling on the interior and is generally a tourist trap to be avoided. }} * {{see | name=Devanahalli Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.249569 | long=77.708366 | directions=near Bangalore Airport | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5266481 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This fort was constructed in 1501 and is in good repair and worth seeing. The birthplace of Tipu Sultan, also known as the ''Tiger of Mysore'', is near the fort. There are numerous temples within the fort with impeccable architecture, of which the Venugopala Swami Temple is the most visited and the oldest. The walls of the temple depict various scenes from Ramayana and the pillars have beautiful statues carved on them. }} * {{see | name=Makalidurga | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.432604 | long=77.50096 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6738639 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content= }} * {{see | name=Mahatma Gandhi Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0822 | long=77.57627 | directions=within the University of Agricultural Science campus | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=HMT Heritage Centre & Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=HMT Colony | lat=13.05318 | long=77.55034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM-6:30PM (close Tu) | price= | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=The museum of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT). }} * {{see | name=Science Gallery Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://bengaluru.sciencegallery.com/ | email= | address=10-11, Bellary Rd, Sanjaynagar | lat=13.02561 | long=77.58463 | directions=bus: CBI | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Th 10AM-6PM, Fr-Su: 10AM-8PM, closed M | price= | wikidata=Q135094950 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=Inaugurated in 2024, this museum holds various artistic exhibitions and lectures with a view to science outreach and art-science collaborations. It does not have any permanent collection, but rather a series of temporary exhibitions each year. }} ===Temples=== * {{see | name=Ghati Subramanya | alt=ಘಾಟಿ ಸುಬ್ರಮಣ್ಯ | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.292 | long=77.543 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5555922 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The uniqueness of this temple is that the prime deity Lord Karthikeya, is found together with Lord Narasimha. According to mythology, both idols are believed to have emerged from the earth. The idol of Karthikeya with a seven headed cobra is made from a single stone. On the rear of the stone is the carving of Narasimha. }} * {{see | name=ISKCON Temple | alt= | url=https://www.iskconbangalore.org | email= | address=Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd | lat=13.009444 | long=77.550833 | directions=metro: {{station|Mahalakshmi|green}} | phone=+91 99860 77269, +91 80 23471956, +91 80 23578346 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 23578625 | hours=3:45AM-8PM | price= | wikidata=Q4500903 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A huge cultural complex built on a hillock in Rajajinagar atop scenic surroundings, is a perfect blend of modern technology and spiritual harmony. The huge cultural complex was built to promote Vedic culture and spiritual learning and abounds with shops selling devotional items and souvenirs. The annual Krishna and Balarama ''Rath Yatra'' is attended by thousands. However, due to the huge flow of foreign visitors, it has mostly become a heavily commercialised place and less of a religious centre. }} * {{see | name=Maruthi Mandir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahakalshmi Layout | lat= | long= | directions=5 min drive from ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A Hanuman Temple is opposite, in the gate of Mahalakshmi Layout. This is a rock hill with huge idols of Hanuman and Mahalakshmi temples. The annual festival of Hanuman Jayanti during December is very attractive. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Sampige Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sampige Road, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=next to Mantri Mall | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=One of the oldest theatres of Malleswaram, and an important landmark. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Aero India | alt= | url=http://www.aeroindia.in | email= | address= | lat=13.135833 | long=77.6075 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4688156 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content=Held in the second week of February every alternate year (the next one is in 2027), this is Asia's premier air show. Spanning 5 days but open to the public only on the last 3 days (F-Su), the show at Yelahanka Air Force Base in the northern part of Bangalore comprises a defence exhibition and air show. Fighter jets from around the world are on flying and on static display. Normally, there are two air shows every day - one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Tickets can be purchased online or at select outlets - scan the newspapers for more information. Purchasing a ticket at outlets requires you to show a photo identification and tickets are non-transferable. }} * {{do | name=Concerts at Bangalore Palace Grounds | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0058 | long=77.58839 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Check the local listings to see if any concerts are happening. Most international acts happen at Bengaluru Palace Grounds and the venue has hosted Metallica, The Rolling Stones, Bryan Adams, Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, Joe Satriani, Mark Knopfler, Aerosmith, Sting, Uriah Heep, Lamb of God, Megadeth, Machinehead, Scorpions among others. }} ===Lakes=== * {{do | name=Hebbal Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.046667 | long=77.586667 | directions=at the interchange of NH 44 and NH 75, local {{station|Hebbal|swr}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5695346 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=One of the three lakes created in 1537 during the rule of Kempe Gowda. }} * {{do | name=Hesaraghatta Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.15 | long=77.49 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5745519 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=A freshwater lake created in 1894 across the Arkavati River to meet the drinking water needs of the city. It is an integral part of the Greater Hesaraghatta Grassland Conservation Reserve. It is surrounded by institutions like the Government Aquarium, Government Film and Television Institute, Indian Horticultural Research Institute, Indo-Danish Poultry and Dairy farms, and [[Bangalore/North#Q7067540|Nrityagram]]. }} * {{do | name=Sankey Tank | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00991 | long=77.57479 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-05 | content=A pleasant lake }} ===Parks=== [[File:Lumbini garden , Hebbal, Bangalore 3001.JPG|thumbnail|Lumbini Garden, Hebbal]] * {{do | name=Fun World | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00669 | long=77.59113 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=An amusement park on the Bangalore Palace grounds. }} * {{do | name=HMT Area | alt= | url= | email= | address=BEL Junction | lat=13.04560 | long=77.55641 | directions={{km|18}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=This area of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) is dotted with parks and green layouts. Examples are General Ayyappa Park and Kittur Rani Chennamma Park. The J.P.Park is nearby. Lodges are available at Mathikere and Jalahalli. }} * {{do | name=J. P. Park | alt=Jayaprakash Narayan Biodiversity Park | url= | email= | address=Mathikere, Near Yashwanthpur Railway Station | lat=13.03475 | long=77.55057 | directions={{km|11}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=The third largest park in Bangalore, covering 85 acres. There are many statues of animals and provision for children's' games. The park includes four lakes, 25 acres of lawns, over 250 varieties of trees and shrubs (including select exotic and aquatic species, and a nursery), a nature centre, an exhibition plaza, and an amphitheatre. }} * {{do | name=Lumbini Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=A public park along the Nagawara Lake. It contains an eco-friendly boating park and a {{sqft|12,500}} artificial beach and children's pool. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=Ayur Sukha | alt= | url=http://www.ayursukha.com/l_banglore.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Malleswaram. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very nice, clean and professional spa in a nice neighborhood. 1 hr basic Ayurvedic treatment (massage and steam) is about ₹1,000. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Nrityagram | alt= | url=http://www.nrityagram.org | email=nrityagram@vsnl.com | address=Hesaraghatta | lat=13.161 | long=77.45 | directions={{km|28}} NW of city centre | phone=+91 80 8466313 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 8466312 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7067540 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This unique experimental village is dedicated to ''gurukula'' tradition of dance (''nritya''), music, choreography and painting. The residential school offers training in Indian classical dance forms, Odissi, Mohiniattam, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Manipuri, eight hours a day, six days a week for seven years, following the ancient Guru-shishya tradition. It is also a winner of ''rural architecture'' award. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Sampige Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00215 | long=77.57129 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=The heart of Malleswaram, connecting Sheshadripuram to IISc. Sampige Road is around {{km|2}} long, has a wide range of shops that sells books, electronic items, silk sarees, handicrafts, cloth materials, Hindu pooja materials, sweets and all the trivial things you can buy on earth. Also try Malleswaram 8th cross on Sampige road (aptly named Brigade Road of Malleswram) for a vibrant shopping experience. Sampige Road is also home to best flower market and fruits market in Bangalore. If you are tired of going to individual shops you can go to department stores such as Fabmall, Foodworld and Nilgiris. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Tata Book House | url= | email= | address=IISc | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has a large collection of technical books, on which it offers a flat 20 percent discount. Lots of books in a small place. Also worth visiting just because it is in IISc. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Arnav | alt= | url=http://www.arnav.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2656 8416 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The quaint little jewellery store at Ashoka Pillar, Jayanagar makes for very interesting jewellery buys, a range of antique, restored, contemporary and fusion jewellery are on display. They could help you design a piece of jewellery to suit your needs, an in-house jewellery consultant could help you choose your jewellery. }} * {{buy | name=Aura Creations | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shop No.3, Plot No. 2 Nandagokula Layout, Shampura Main Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 85 5363 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Designer boutique with exclusive dress materials. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Kala Madhyam Store' | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/KalaMadhyamIndia/ | email=mail@kalamadhyam.org | address=2nd floor, Flat No 2, Benson Town #77/8, Nandidurga Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Benson Cross Rd corner | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Folk and tribal art paintings, handicrafts from across India, clothing for women. Specialises in wall murals of folk and tribal art as well as terracotta. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Element Mall | alt= | url=http://elementsmall.com/ | email= | address= | lat=13.04529 | long=77.62675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19891419 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Galleria Mall | alt= | url=https://www.rmzgalleriamall.com | email= | address= | lat=13.0943 | long=77.5951 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q120125588 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Mantri Square | alt= | url=https://www.mantrisquare.com | email= | address=Malleswaram | lat=12.9916 | long=77.5708 | directions=metro: {{station|Sampige Road|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6752215 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Orion Mall | alt= | url=https://orionmalls.com/orion-mall-at-brigade-gateway | email= | address= | lat=13.011 | long=77.555 | directions=near Yeshwanthpur railway station and ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17081306 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Halli Mane | alt= | url= | email= | address=3rd Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=close to Malleswaram Circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Truly authentic and traditional Kannada style food. }} * {{eat | name=Herbs & Spices | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 Foot Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Above Planet M, 100 m north of Reliance Fresh | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On. Great pasta, pizza, and desserts. }} * {{eat | name=Janatha Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another great place, famous for its butter masala dosas and vadas. }} * {{eat | name=Kodial's | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic vegetarian Konkani cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=New Krishna Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=1st Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic Mangalorean food, reasonably priced. Try the neer dosa and badam halwa. }} * {{eat | name=Phalaamritha Ice Cream Parlour | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, 14/1 West Park Road,Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6567 5755 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves 25 super smooth home-made ice cream flavours along with health drinks, varieties of kulfis, milk shakes, ice tea, ice cream, novelties and chaats. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai Junction | alt= | url= | email= | address=No.8, Sri Sai, 60 Foot. Rd, G Block, Sahakarnagar | lat= | long= | directions=behind Big Market | phone=+91 80 41744477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Sonar Bangla | alt= | url= | email= | address=88/1, Shubh Arcade, 1st floor, 16th Cross, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 3367622 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The restaurant undertakes orders of authentic Bengali food for gourmets who fancy a whole meal and also delivers it at the doorstep. Fish is considered sacred in the coastal state and is consumed universally. So, all fish lovers can take heart as the non-vegetarian cuisine is delivered, but not served at the restaurant. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Central Tiffin Room (CTR) | alt=Shri Sagar | url= | email= | address=152, 7th Cross, 3rd Main, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat=12.99826 | long=77.56945 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2331 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-16 | content=Another landmark hotel, dishing out some divine 'Benne masala dosa', which literally melts in the mouth. Famous for its Butter Masala Dosa. }} * {{eat | name=Hotel Janatha | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Makes some of the best vada sambhar and masala dosa in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kerala Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near Syndicate Bank, Yeshwantpur Railway Road | phone=+91 9895760965 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Veena Stores | alt= | url= | email= | address=Margosa Rd, 15 Cross, Malleswaram | lat=13.00565 | long=77.56924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This place has some of the best Idlis and Vadas in this part of the world. They also make other dishes but Idli and Vada are mainstay. Don't expect to sit and eat because there is no seating. Stand and eat. Best time to go is mornings for breakfast before they run out of the day's stock. Try before 8AM although they are open some part of the day and evening. }} ===Mid-range=== *'''1947 Restaurant'''. Shop No:47, 4th Floor, 15th Cross Rd, Above Girias, Malleswaram ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Ikea Swedish Coffee Shop, Nagasandra | content= Biggest coffee shop in Bangalore with 100,000 sq.ft. floor space}} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Opus | alt= | url=http://opusbangalore.blogspot.com/ | email= | address=Palace Cross Road, near Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2344 2580 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A chilled-out, ex-pat friendly lounge with a large outdoor space. Has karaoke on most Su and W (Kroaknights) as well as regular live music and DJ dance nights. You may need to book ahead on theme nights. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=F-Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Le Meridien, Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fashion Bar is a theme bar by FTV }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Balaji Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=First Cross Rd, Behind RTO, L N Colony, Yeswanthpur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 124 620 1730 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹700 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bangalore Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8136821110, +91 6360125946 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content=Lift facility. Party hall attached. }} * {{sleep | name=Address 24 Inn | alt= | url=https://bangalores.best/stay/address-24-inn | email= | address=#54, Hebbal Kempapura, Behind Esteem Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 95177 79377 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ===Mid-range=== [[File:Jayamahal Palace Hotel P 20170221 080900.jpg|thumb|Jayamahal Palace Hotel]] * {{sleep | name=Chairman's Club & Resort | url=http://www.chairmansresort.com | email=reservation@chairmansresort.com | address=No. 14/1, Kodigehalli Main Road, Sahakar Nagar, Hebbal (near Twin Tower) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-40703703 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=24 Hours | price=Rooms & Suites, ₹2,500-7,000 | content=Best for Airport transit passengers. It has AC and Suites rooms. It has a lounge bar (Lock N' Load), indoor swimming pool, Badminton court, garden restaurant, indoor AC restaurant free Wi-Fi and a fitness centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Fantasy Golf Resort | alt= | url=http://www.fantasygolfresort.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=opp ITC-0 mins away from Bengaluru Airport | phone=+91 99 7209-2701 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Presidency | alt= | url=http://www.hotelpresidencyblr.com/ | email=enquiry@hotelpresidencyblr.com | address=No. 22 Sadahalli Gate | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2846-7175 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=24/7 reception. }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Bengaluru Hebbal | alt= | url=http://www.hojobangalore.com/ | email=reservations@hojobangalore.com | address=132, Thanisandra Main Road, Nagawara Junction | lat=13.04505 | long=77.62678 | directions=near Manyata Embassy Business Park | phone=+91 8046 4670 00 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,000-5,000 | wikidata=Q111402668 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Jayamahal Palace Hotel | alt=Arni Hall | url=http://www.jayamahalpalace.in/ | email= | address=1, Jayamahal Main Rd | lat=12.997 | long=77.5974 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4058 0444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=11AM | price=₹3,200&ndash;4,200 | wikidata=Q29026994 | lastedit=2025-06-23 | content=A heritage hotel with a formal restaurant and a Formula racing-themed bar. It was originally owned by the Jagirdar of Arni in Tamil Nadu around 1892. }} * {{sleep | name=Olde Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.oldebangalore.in | email=marketing@oldebangalore.in | address=Tarabanahalli | lat=13.19124 | long=77.6229 | directions= | phone=+91 99004 28729 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-11-27 | content=Resort and hotel, events, receptions, multi-cuisine food, corporate event facilities, conferences. }} * {{sleep | name=Prakruthi Club & Resort | alt= | url=http://www.prakruthiclub.com | email=contactus@prakruthiclub.com | address=Plot no. 12A, Hegganahalli village, Kundana Hobli | lat= | long= | directions={{km|11}} from the airport | phone=+91 80 2849 4002 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Cottages and rooms, ₹2,500-9,000 | content=Accommodation for couples, family, or corporate bookings. A conference hall that can seat 120 people and meeting facilities. Coffee shop. Lounge bar, Wi-Fi. }} * {{sleep | name=The Sun Suites | alt= | url=https://www.thesunsuites.com | email= | address=Vinayak Nagar, Kattigenahalli | lat=13.12048 | long=77.61336 | directions= | phone=+91 90086 45090 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹2,350-₹3,200 | wikidata=Q112003297 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blrgshi-hilton-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.042421 | long=77.620765 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹18,000-21,000 | wikidata=Q121093902 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blremgi-hilton-garden-inn-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.041563 | long=77.620271 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹13,570 | wikidata=Q121091985 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/blrgs-sheraton-grand-bangalore-hotel-at-brigade-gateway/overview/ | email= | address=26/1, Dr Rajkumar Rd, Rajajinagar | lat=13.0127 | long=77.5551 | directions= | phone=+91 80 42521000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹23,800 | wikidata=Q111402679 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Yeshwantpur Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/hotels/taj-yeshwantpur-bangalore | email= | address=2275, Tumkur Rd, Phase 1, Yeshwanthpur Industrial Area | lat=13.02906 | long=77.54044 | directions=metro: {{station|Goraguntepalya|green}} | phone=+91 80 66900111 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹11,210 | wikidata=Q111402673 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} dqucgiw19vd57r25xwd8w2ifmx6jww4 5091208 5091200 2025-07-11T05:50:22Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* See */ Updated listing for Makalidurga 5091208 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|WV banner Bangalore Rural Muneeshwara Swamy shrine.jpg|pgname=North Bangalore}} [[File:Bangalore Palace Monument.jpg|thumb|Bangalore Palace]] '''North Bangalore''' is the northern part of the city. ==Get in== {{mapframe|13.06|77.55|zoom=12|width=500|height=500|name=Map of North Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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==See== [[File:Devanahalli_fort,_near_Bangalore.JPG|thumb|Devanahalli Fort]] * {{see | name=Bangalore Palace | alt= | url= | email= | address=Palace Rd, Vasanth Nagar | lat=12.998529 | long=77.592103 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹100/450 for Indians/foreigners and ₹675 for a still camera. This includes an audio guide that points out rooms, photos and other things | wikidata=Q3520057 | lastedit=2023-01-04 | content=Built by the Maharajas of Mysore. For many years the building was neglected as a tourist attraction but is now open to the public. This is a run-down building with paint peeling on the interior and is generally a tourist trap to be avoided. }} * {{see | name=Devanahalli Fort | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.249569 | long=77.708366 | directions=near Bangalore Airport | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5266481 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This fort was constructed in 1501 and is in good repair and worth seeing. The birthplace of Tipu Sultan, also known as the ''Tiger of Mysore'', is near the fort. There are numerous temples within the fort with impeccable architecture, of which the Venugopala Swami Temple is the most visited and the oldest. The walls of the temple depict various scenes from Ramayana and the pillars have beautiful statues carved on them. }} * {{see | name=Makalidurga | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.432604 | long=77.50096 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6738639 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A hill fort and a popular trekking destination for adventurers. The trek begins with a 2-km walk on the railway track from the station of Makalidurga. You can also ride bikes to the beginning of the trekking trail as well. A lot of refreshments are advised to be carried in case one wants to trek this hillock. }} * {{see | name=Mahatma Gandhi Botanical Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0822 | long=77.57627 | directions=within the University of Agricultural Science campus | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content= }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=HMT Heritage Centre & Museum | alt= | url= | email= | address=HMT Colony | lat=13.05318 | long=77.55034 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours=10:30AM-6:30PM (close Tu) | price= | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=The museum of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT). }} * {{see | name=Science Gallery Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://bengaluru.sciencegallery.com/ | email= | address=10-11, Bellary Rd, Sanjaynagar | lat=13.02561 | long=77.58463 | directions=bus: CBI | phone= | tollfree= | hours=Tu-Th 10AM-6PM, Fr-Su: 10AM-8PM, closed M | price= | wikidata=Q135094950 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=Inaugurated in 2024, this museum holds various artistic exhibitions and lectures with a view to science outreach and art-science collaborations. It does not have any permanent collection, but rather a series of temporary exhibitions each year. }} ===Temples=== * {{see | name=Ghati Subramanya | alt=ಘಾಟಿ ಸುಬ್ರಮಣ್ಯ | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.292 | long=77.543 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5555922 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=The uniqueness of this temple is that the prime deity Lord Karthikeya, is found together with Lord Narasimha. According to mythology, both idols are believed to have emerged from the earth. The idol of Karthikeya with a seven headed cobra is made from a single stone. On the rear of the stone is the carving of Narasimha. }} * {{see | name=ISKCON Temple | alt= | url=https://www.iskconbangalore.org | email= | address=Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Rd | lat=13.009444 | long=77.550833 | directions=metro: {{station|Mahalakshmi|green}} | phone=+91 99860 77269, +91 80 23471956, +91 80 23578346 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 23578625 | hours=3:45AM-8PM | price= | wikidata=Q4500903 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A huge cultural complex built on a hillock in Rajajinagar atop scenic surroundings, is a perfect blend of modern technology and spiritual harmony. The huge cultural complex was built to promote Vedic culture and spiritual learning and abounds with shops selling devotional items and souvenirs. The annual Krishna and Balarama ''Rath Yatra'' is attended by thousands. However, due to the huge flow of foreign visitors, it has mostly become a heavily commercialised place and less of a religious centre. }} * {{see | name=Maruthi Mandir | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mahakalshmi Layout | lat= | long= | directions=5 min drive from ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A Hanuman Temple is opposite, in the gate of Mahalakshmi Layout. This is a rock hill with huge idols of Hanuman and Mahalakshmi temples. The annual festival of Hanuman Jayanti during December is very attractive. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Sampige Theatre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Sampige Road, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=next to Mantri Mall | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=One of the oldest theatres of Malleswaram, and an important landmark. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Aero India | alt= | url=http://www.aeroindia.in | email= | address= | lat=13.135833 | long=77.6075 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4688156 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content=Held in the second week of February every alternate year (the next one is in 2027), this is Asia's premier air show. Spanning 5 days but open to the public only on the last 3 days (F-Su), the show at Yelahanka Air Force Base in the northern part of Bangalore comprises a defence exhibition and air show. Fighter jets from around the world are on flying and on static display. Normally, there are two air shows every day - one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Tickets can be purchased online or at select outlets - scan the newspapers for more information. Purchasing a ticket at outlets requires you to show a photo identification and tickets are non-transferable. }} * {{do | name=Concerts at Bangalore Palace Grounds | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.0058 | long=77.58839 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=Check the local listings to see if any concerts are happening. Most international acts happen at Bengaluru Palace Grounds and the venue has hosted Metallica, The Rolling Stones, Bryan Adams, Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, Joe Satriani, Mark Knopfler, Aerosmith, Sting, Uriah Heep, Lamb of God, Megadeth, Machinehead, Scorpions among others. }} ===Lakes=== * {{do | name=Hebbal Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.046667 | long=77.586667 | directions=at the interchange of NH 44 and NH 75, local {{station|Hebbal|swr}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5695346 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=One of the three lakes created in 1537 during the rule of Kempe Gowda. }} * {{do | name=Hesaraghatta Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.15 | long=77.49 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5745519 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=A freshwater lake created in 1894 across the Arkavati River to meet the drinking water needs of the city. It is an integral part of the Greater Hesaraghatta Grassland Conservation Reserve. It is surrounded by institutions like the Government Aquarium, Government Film and Television Institute, Indian Horticultural Research Institute, Indo-Danish Poultry and Dairy farms, and [[Bangalore/North#Q7067540|Nrityagram]]. }} * {{do | name=Sankey Tank | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00991 | long=77.57479 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-07-05 | content=A pleasant lake }} ===Parks=== [[File:Lumbini garden , Hebbal, Bangalore 3001.JPG|thumbnail|Lumbini Garden, Hebbal]] * {{do | name=Fun World | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00669 | long=77.59113 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-05-28 | content=An amusement park on the Bangalore Palace grounds. }} * {{do | name=HMT Area | alt= | url= | email= | address=BEL Junction | lat=13.04560 | long=77.55641 | directions={{km|18}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=This area of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) is dotted with parks and green layouts. Examples are General Ayyappa Park and Kittur Rani Chennamma Park. The J.P.Park is nearby. Lodges are available at Mathikere and Jalahalli. }} * {{do | name=J. P. Park | alt=Jayaprakash Narayan Biodiversity Park | url= | email= | address=Mathikere, Near Yashwanthpur Railway Station | lat=13.03475 | long=77.55057 | directions={{km|11}} | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2015-05-09 | content=The third largest park in Bangalore, covering 85 acres. There are many statues of animals and provision for children's' games. The park includes four lakes, 25 acres of lawns, over 250 varieties of trees and shrubs (including select exotic and aquatic species, and a nursery), a nature centre, an exhibition plaza, and an amphitheatre. }} * {{do | name=Lumbini Garden | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=A public park along the Nagawara Lake. It contains an eco-friendly boating park and a {{sqft|12,500}} artificial beach and children's pool. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=Ayur Sukha | alt= | url=http://www.ayursukha.com/l_banglore.html | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=Malleswaram. | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very nice, clean and professional spa in a nice neighborhood. 1 hr basic Ayurvedic treatment (massage and steam) is about ₹1,000. }} ==Learn== * {{listing | name=Nrityagram | alt= | url=http://www.nrityagram.org | email=nrityagram@vsnl.com | address=Hesaraghatta | lat=13.161 | long=77.45 | directions={{km|28}} NW of city centre | phone=+91 80 8466313 | tollfree= | fax=+91 80 8466312 | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7067540 | lastedit=2023-04-03 | content=This unique experimental village is dedicated to ''gurukula'' tradition of dance (''nritya''), music, choreography and painting. The residential school offers training in Indian classical dance forms, Odissi, Mohiniattam, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Manipuri, eight hours a day, six days a week for seven years, following the ancient Guru-shishya tradition. It is also a winner of ''rural architecture'' award. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Sampige Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=13.00215 | long=77.57129 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=The heart of Malleswaram, connecting Sheshadripuram to IISc. Sampige Road is around {{km|2}} long, has a wide range of shops that sells books, electronic items, silk sarees, handicrafts, cloth materials, Hindu pooja materials, sweets and all the trivial things you can buy on earth. Also try Malleswaram 8th cross on Sampige road (aptly named Brigade Road of Malleswram) for a vibrant shopping experience. Sampige Road is also home to best flower market and fruits market in Bangalore. If you are tired of going to individual shops you can go to department stores such as Fabmall, Foodworld and Nilgiris. }} ===Books=== * {{buy | name=Tata Book House | url= | email= | address=IISc | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Has a large collection of technical books, on which it offers a flat 20 percent discount. Lots of books in a small place. Also worth visiting just because it is in IISc. }} ===Boutiques=== * {{buy | name=Arnav | alt= | url=http://www.arnav.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2656 8416 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The quaint little jewellery store at Ashoka Pillar, Jayanagar makes for very interesting jewellery buys, a range of antique, restored, contemporary and fusion jewellery are on display. They could help you design a piece of jewellery to suit your needs, an in-house jewellery consultant could help you choose your jewellery. }} * {{buy | name=Aura Creations | alt= | url= | email= | address=Shop No.3, Plot No. 2 Nandagokula Layout, Shampura Main Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 85 5363 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Designer boutique with exclusive dress materials. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Kala Madhyam Store' | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/KalaMadhyamIndia/ | email=mail@kalamadhyam.org | address=2nd floor, Flat No 2, Benson Town #77/8, Nandidurga Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Benson Cross Rd corner | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Folk and tribal art paintings, handicrafts from across India, clothing for women. Specialises in wall murals of folk and tribal art as well as terracotta. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Element Mall | alt= | url=http://elementsmall.com/ | email= | address= | lat=13.04529 | long=77.62675 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19891419 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Galleria Mall | alt= | url=https://www.rmzgalleriamall.com | email= | address= | lat=13.0943 | long=77.5951 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q120125588 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Mantri Square | alt= | url=https://www.mantrisquare.com | email= | address=Malleswaram | lat=12.9916 | long=77.5708 | directions=metro: {{station|Sampige Road|green}} | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6752215 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{buy | name=Orion Mall | alt= | url=https://orionmalls.com/orion-mall-at-brigade-gateway | email= | address= | lat=13.011 | long=77.555 | directions=near Yeshwanthpur railway station and ISKCON temple | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q17081306 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Halli Mane | alt= | url= | email= | address=3rd Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions=close to Malleswaram Circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Truly authentic and traditional Kannada style food. }} * {{eat | name=Herbs & Spices | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 Foot Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Above Planet M, 100 m north of Reliance Fresh | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=On. Great pasta, pizza, and desserts. }} * {{eat | name=Janatha Hotel | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another great place, famous for its butter masala dosas and vadas. }} * {{eat | name=Kodial's | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic vegetarian Konkani cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=New Krishna Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=1st Cross Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For authentic Mangalorean food, reasonably priced. Try the neer dosa and badam halwa. }} * {{eat | name=Phalaamritha Ice Cream Parlour | alt= | url= | email= | address=8th Cross, 14/1 West Park Road,Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 6567 5755 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves 25 super smooth home-made ice cream flavours along with health drinks, varieties of kulfis, milk shakes, ice tea, ice cream, novelties and chaats. }} * {{eat | name=Shanghai Junction | alt= | url= | email= | address=No.8, Sri Sai, 60 Foot. Rd, G Block, Sahakarnagar | lat= | long= | directions=behind Big Market | phone=+91 80 41744477 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Sonar Bangla | alt= | url= | email= | address=88/1, Shubh Arcade, 1st floor, 16th Cross, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 3367622 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The restaurant undertakes orders of authentic Bengali food for gourmets who fancy a whole meal and also delivers it at the doorstep. Fish is considered sacred in the coastal state and is consumed universally. So, all fish lovers can take heart as the non-vegetarian cuisine is delivered, but not served at the restaurant. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Central Tiffin Room (CTR) | alt=Shri Sagar | url= | email= | address=152, 7th Cross, 3rd Main, Margosa Rd, Malleswaram | lat=12.99826 | long=77.56945 | directions= | phone=+91 80 2331 7531 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-02-16 | content=Another landmark hotel, dishing out some divine 'Benne masala dosa', which literally melts in the mouth. Famous for its Butter Masala Dosa. }} * {{eat | name=Hotel Janatha | url= | email= | address=8th Cross Rd, Malleswaram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Makes some of the best vada sambhar and masala dosa in town. }} * {{eat | name=Kerala Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=near Syndicate Bank, Yeshwantpur Railway Road | phone=+91 9895760965 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Veena Stores | alt= | url= | email= | address=Margosa Rd, 15 Cross, Malleswaram | lat=13.00565 | long=77.56924 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This place has some of the best Idlis and Vadas in this part of the world. They also make other dishes but Idli and Vada are mainstay. Don't expect to sit and eat because there is no seating. Stand and eat. Best time to go is mornings for breakfast before they run out of the day's stock. Try before 8AM although they are open some part of the day and evening. }} ===Mid-range=== *'''1947 Restaurant'''. Shop No:47, 4th Floor, 15th Cross Rd, Above Girias, Malleswaram ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Ikea Swedish Coffee Shop, Nagasandra | content= Biggest coffee shop in Bangalore with 100,000 sq.ft. floor space}} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=Opus | alt= | url=http://opusbangalore.blogspot.com/ | email= | address=Palace Cross Road, near Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2344 2580 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A chilled-out, ex-pat friendly lounge with a large outdoor space. Has karaoke on most Su and W (Kroaknights) as well as regular live music and DJ dance nights. You may need to book ahead on theme nights. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=F-Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address=Le Meridien, Sankey Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Fashion Bar is a theme bar by FTV }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Balaji Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address=First Cross Rd, Behind RTO, L N Colony, Yeswanthpur | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 124 620 1730 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹700 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Bangalore Residency | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8136821110, +91 6360125946 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,200 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content=Lift facility. Party hall attached. }} * {{sleep | name=Address 24 Inn | alt= | url=https://bangalores.best/stay/address-24-inn | email= | address=#54, Hebbal Kempapura, Behind Esteem Mall | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 95177 79377 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} ===Mid-range=== [[File:Jayamahal Palace Hotel P 20170221 080900.jpg|thumb|Jayamahal Palace Hotel]] * {{sleep | name=Chairman's Club & Resort | url=http://www.chairmansresort.com | email=reservation@chairmansresort.com | address=No. 14/1, Kodigehalli Main Road, Sahakar Nagar, Hebbal (near Twin Tower) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-40703703 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout=24 Hours | price=Rooms & Suites, ₹2,500-7,000 | content=Best for Airport transit passengers. It has AC and Suites rooms. It has a lounge bar (Lock N' Load), indoor swimming pool, Badminton court, garden restaurant, indoor AC restaurant free Wi-Fi and a fitness centre. }} * {{sleep | name=Fantasy Golf Resort | alt= | url=http://www.fantasygolfresort.com | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=opp ITC-0 mins away from Bengaluru Airport | phone=+91 99 7209-2701 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Presidency | alt= | url=http://www.hotelpresidencyblr.com/ | email=enquiry@hotelpresidencyblr.com | address=No. 22 Sadahalli Gate | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2846-7175 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=24/7 reception. }} * {{sleep | name=Howard Johnson by Wyndham Bengaluru Hebbal | alt= | url=http://www.hojobangalore.com/ | email=reservations@hojobangalore.com | address=132, Thanisandra Main Road, Nagawara Junction | lat=13.04505 | long=77.62678 | directions=near Manyata Embassy Business Park | phone=+91 8046 4670 00 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹4,000-5,000 | wikidata=Q111402668 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Jayamahal Palace Hotel | alt=Arni Hall | url=http://www.jayamahalpalace.in/ | email= | address=1, Jayamahal Main Rd | lat=12.997 | long=77.5974 | directions= | phone=+91 80 4058 0444 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=11AM | price=₹3,200&ndash;4,200 | wikidata=Q29026994 | lastedit=2025-06-23 | content=A heritage hotel with a formal restaurant and a Formula racing-themed bar. It was originally owned by the Jagirdar of Arni in Tamil Nadu around 1892. }} * {{sleep | name=Olde Bangalore | alt= | url=http://www.oldebangalore.in | email=marketing@oldebangalore.in | address=Tarabanahalli | lat=13.19124 | long=77.6229 | directions= | phone=+91 99004 28729 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2015-11-27 | content=Resort and hotel, events, receptions, multi-cuisine food, corporate event facilities, conferences. }} * {{sleep | name=Prakruthi Club & Resort | alt= | url=http://www.prakruthiclub.com | email=contactus@prakruthiclub.com | address=Plot no. 12A, Hegganahalli village, Kundana Hobli | lat= | long= | directions={{km|11}} from the airport | phone=+91 80 2849 4002 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Cottages and rooms, ₹2,500-9,000 | content=Accommodation for couples, family, or corporate bookings. A conference hall that can seat 120 people and meeting facilities. Coffee shop. Lounge bar, Wi-Fi. }} * {{sleep | name=The Sun Suites | alt= | url=https://www.thesunsuites.com | email= | address=Vinayak Nagar, Kattigenahalli | lat=13.12048 | long=77.61336 | directions= | phone=+91 90086 45090 | tollfree= | checkin=noon | checkout=11AM | price=₹2,350-₹3,200 | wikidata=Q112003297 | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ===Splurge=== * {{sleep | name=Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blrgshi-hilton-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.042421 | long=77.620765 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹18,000-21,000 | wikidata=Q121093902 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park | alt= | url=https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/blremgi-hilton-garden-inn-bengaluru-embassy-manyata-business-park/ | email=blrem_res@hilton.com | address=1, Outer Ring Rd, Manayata Tech Park | lat=13.041563 | long=77.620271 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹13,570 | wikidata=Q121091985 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway | alt= | url=https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/blrgs-sheraton-grand-bangalore-hotel-at-brigade-gateway/overview/ | email= | address=26/1, Dr Rajkumar Rd, Rajajinagar | lat=13.0127 | long=77.5551 | directions= | phone=+91 80 42521000 | tollfree= | checkin=3PM | checkout=noon | price=₹23,800 | wikidata=Q111402679 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Taj Yeshwantpur Bengaluru | alt= | url=https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/hotels/taj-yeshwantpur-bangalore | email= | address=2275, Tumkur Rd, Phase 1, Yeshwanthpur Industrial Area | lat=13.02906 | long=77.54044 | directions=metro: {{station|Goraguntepalya|green}} | phone=+91 80 66900111 | tollfree= | checkin=2PM | checkout=noon | price=₹11,210 | wikidata=Q111402673 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content= }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} 0okv24y6q93al76gat5wtdvrn98rm08 0 211498 5091191 5090074 2025-07-11T05:15:29Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Buy */ 5091191 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=South Bangalore}} '''South Bangalore''' is the southern part of the city. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.88|77.579|width=500|height=500|zoom=12|name=Map of South Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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==See== ===Ashrams=== [[File:The art of living international center.jpg|thumbnail|The Art of Living]] * {{see | name=The Art of Living | alt= | url=http://www.artofliving.org/bangalore-ashram | email=info@vvmvp.org | address=Kanakapura Rd, Udayapura | lat=12.825845 | long=77.508759 | directions=near Cricket Coaching ground | phone=+91 9448386061, +91 80 67262626, +91 80 6726262627, +91 80 6726262628 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1666330 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content=The international headquarters of the Art of Living Foundation. The ashram is spread over 65 acres and was established in 1986. They conduct frequent yoga and Ayurveda programmes. The campus is also the focal point of many service projects, such as rural development and education, organic farming initiatives, and research into the benefits of ‘Sudarshan Kriya’. While at the ashram, one cannot miss the Satsangs that are held every evening. Satsangs are gatherings where scattered minds unite through music, meditation, and wisdom to experience a higher state of consciousness. People from all over the world who know different languages participate in the singing of bhajans, or the repetitive chanting of a word or a verse. }} * {{see | name=Ramakrishna Math | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94877 | long=77.56676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=There are many Ramakrishna ashrams in Bangalore, but the special and central one is in Gandhi Bazaar, an area with many temples. This mutt contains a vast meditating hall, a beautiful park, a Vedic school and many more facilities. Sarada Devi had meditated on a location in the park in this boundary. This location is preserved as a monument. A stone on which Swami Vivekananda sat when he visited Bangalore is also kept as a monument. This is a calm and peaceful place to meditate. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Indian Music Experience Museum | alt= | url=https://www.indianmusicexperience.org/ | email=info@indianmusicexperience.org | address=Brigade Millenium Ave, 7th Phase, JP Nagar | lat=12.89177 | long=77.58372 | directions=opposite Wood Rose Club | phone=+91 96866 02366 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM (closed M) | price=₹250 for persons over 12, ₹150 for senior citizens | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=The only interactive music museum in India with exhibits on traditional and contemporary Indian music. The museum also hosts a learning centre to learn music. }} * {{see | name=NIMHANS Brain Museum | alt= | url=http://www.nimhans.ac.in/neurobiology-research-centre-nrc/ | email= | address=Hosur Rd | lat=12.940639 | long=77.598778 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30314570 | lastedit=2023-06-11 | content=A rather unusual museum with a collection of several different human brains. }} ===Natural attractions=== [[File:Bangalore Lalbagh IMG 1612.JPG|thumbnail|Lalbagh Botanical Garden]] * {{see | name=[[Bannerghatta National Park]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.800833 | long=77.575556 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2588520 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A national park at the outskirts with a zoo, a pet corner, an animal rescue centre, a butterfly enclosure, an aquarium, a snake house and a safari park. }} * {{see | name=Bugle Rock | alt=Kahale Band | url= | email= | address=Basavanagudi | lat=12.94 | long=77.57 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4986214 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A massive rock of peninsular gneiss. Kempe Gowda II built a tower on the Bugle Rock to mark the southern limit of the city. }} * {{see | name=Dodda Alada Mara | alt=ದೊಡ್ಡ ಆಲದ ಮರ; Big Banyan Tree | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9094 | long=77.3956 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5287736 | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A giant 400-year-old Banyan tree about {{km|28}} from central Bangalore. This single plant covers 3 acres and is one of the largest of its kind. Buses can be taken from Majestic to Kengeri and then from Kengeri to Doda Alada Mara. There are direct buses from K. R. Market to Dodda Alada mara, which stops just beside the tree. The tree is the natural home of numerous monkeys, and you should be careful with food, water, camera bags, and anything else that can be snatched away. }} * {{see | name=Turahalli Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.881683 | long=77.524982 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19899050 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=The dry and deciduous forest is a hot spot for cyclists. Most trees are eucalyptus. The orchids bloom during August, giving a brilliant white colour to contrast with the green of the forest. The forest is famous for harbouring different species of birds. Turahalli is also a natural rock climbing spot. The granite rocks come in various sizes and shapes. Many climbers practice here regularly to prepare for local or international competitions. There's a small Shani temple atop a rocky hill. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Nandi Temple Bangalore 5-11-2008 12-08-41 PM.JPG|thumb|Nandi at the Bull Temple]] * {{see | name=Bull Temple | alt=Dodda Ganeshana Gudi | url= | email= | address=Bull Temple Rd, NR Colony, Basavanagudi | lat=12.941848 | long=77.567948 | directions='''Majestic''': 43A-E, 45A-E, '''Shivajinagar''': 34A-F, 37A-F, '''Jayanagar'''/'''Vijayanagar''': 60A-K (Ramakrishna Ashrama) | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1531614 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A typical Dravidian-style temple, famous for its mammoth bull statue that was carved from a single boulder. Legend has it that the temple was built to appease a marauding bull that stole local crops and that the offering was effective, with the bull subsequently leaving the area. Since then, local farmers have held an annual festival to express their gratitude. }} * {{see | name=Chandra Choodeswarar Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hosur | lat= | long= | directions={{km|20}} from central Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28402744 | lastedit=2023-06-05 | content=An ancient Shiva temple. The exact history of the temple is unknown. This is the only temple in Northern Tamil Nadu that has a golden chariot that is used for temple functions. }} * {{see | name=Dodda Ganapathi | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94289 | long=77.56823 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest temples in Bangalore, it is adjacent to the Bull Temple. The temple is famous for the huge monolith structure of Lord Ganesha, who was worshipped by the villagers to save them from the Bull that was damaging their crops in the area. The Bull Temple is a few metres away from this temple. }} * {{see | name=Gavi Gangadeshwara Cave Temple | url= | email= | address=Gavipuram, Kempegowda Nagar | lat=12.94829 | long=77.56322 | directions=right north of Hanumantha Nagar Park, north of Ramanjaneya Temple, in Gavipuram, adjacent to Basavanagudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-12:30PM and 5-8:30PM | price= | content=Built by Kempe Gowda, this temple with four remarkable monolithic pillars is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple also has a rare idol of fire-god "Agni". The annual festival is on ''Makara Sankranti'' and thousands of devotees flock to see the sun's rays fall on the ''Shivlinga''. }} * {{see | name=Jnanakshi Rajarajeshwari Temple | alt= | url=https://rajarajeshwari.in/home/home | email= | address=Rajarajeshwari Nagar | lat=12.926731 | long=77.510492 | directions=just before Kengeri on Mysore Road | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q127427594 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati (Raja Rajeshwari). It was built by a renowned spiritual guru, Sri Sri Sri Tiruchi Mahaswaigal. Built in the ancient style with stones, the temple is very spacious. One can feel the peace and satisfaction when visiting. Weekends are very crowded. }} * {{see | name=Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bannerghatta Rd | lat=12.87495 | long=77.59435 | directions=after Indian Institute of Management, south of Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Beautiful, spacious temple devoted to Sri Meenakshi Amma. Built in ancient style with stone structures, this place is a very cool and mind-refreshing place to see. You will feel the temple vibe of Tamil Nadu if you enter this temple complex in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=Nageshwara Temple | alt=Naganatheshwara Temple | url= | email= | address=Begur | lat=12.87674 | long=77.62671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6958784 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A temple complex built during the Western Ganga dynasty, with later-day additions by the Chola, Hoysala and Vijayanagara dynasties. It is known for bearing the oldest mention of the name "Bengaluru". The temple has a simple square sanctum, a vestibule that connects the sanctum to a great hall, which leads to an open hall. The open hall has six pillars, with an image of Nandi placed on a lotus platform in the outer bay. The sanctum has a lingam, the universal symbol of the god Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Ragi Gudda | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jayanagar 9th block | lat=12.91482 | long=77.59330 | directions=South of Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a famous Hanuman temple abode. The temple is on a mammoth rocky hill, and has very attractive chain of temples like Spathika Shiva, Ganesha and scenery within the premises. This is a very crowd attracting place during the period of Hanuman Jayanti in December. You get mahaprasadam meals on Saturday noon-1PM. }} * {{see | name=Shree Guruvayurappan Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kanakapura Rd, Nettigere | lat=12.76094 | long=77.48794 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A small and nice Kerala-style temple which gives a great vibe of peace and tranquillity. Only traditional attire is allowed to enter the sanctum (dhotis for men and sarees for women). }} * {{see | name=Vasantha Vallabharaya Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.89541 | long=77.55183 | directions=''' Majestic''' 210E, 210R '''Shivajinagar''' 210G , '''Market''': 210, 210D, 210E, '''Electronic City'''/'''Kengeri''' : 378) In South Bangalore, close to Sai Baba Temple, Eashwara Temple, Anjaneya Temple, off Vasantapura Road | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A small hillock with an ancient temple dedicated to Sri Vasantha Vallabharaya Swamy. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Ranga Shankara | alt= | url=http://www.rangashankara.org/ | email= | address=36/2, 8th Cross, J.P. Nagar, 2nd Phase | lat=12.911513 | long=77.587053 | directions= | phone=+91 80 26592777, +91 80 26494656 | tollfree= | hours=Evening shows start at 7:30PM | price=₹45–100 | wikidata=Q7292595 | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Many local groups perform here, although more often shows are presented by travelling groups touring India. The quality of the performances varies, but most plays are worth seeing, especially the ones by Indian playwrights or directors, as they can show you an Indian (or non-Western) perspective. Shows are in various languages, so it is a good idea to double-check whether the play is in English before buying or reserving (blocking) tickets. Audience members need to be present on time to be allowed entry to the theatre. It does not matter whether you are stuck in traffic or paid in advance, you simply will not be allowed inside after the specific time mentioned as the start time. }} * {{do | name=Ultimate Frisbee Club | alt= | url=http://www.learningtofly.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Although in a nascent stage, Ultimate Frisbee games are held on Tu Th Sa mornings starting 6:30AM. The teams comprise of players of all skill levels. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Kadlekai Parishe (Peanut fair) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94500 | long=77.56786 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Every year, sometime during the months of Nov-Dec, the area around Bull Temple Road in South Bangalore hosts a peanut fair. Centuries ago, the villages in and around this area used to cultivate peanuts and the custom was to dedicate the first crop to Nandi (the Bull at the temple). Although the villages of yore are today residential areas, the tradition continues as peanut farmers congregate to sell their crop. The 2 day traditional fair has many stalls that sell peanuts, trinkets, bangles, pottery, dolls etc. There are also a number of food stalls. }} ===Lakes=== [[File:Madiwala Lake West Side.jpg|thumb|Madiwala Lake]] * {{do | name=Madiwala Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.907778 | long=77.616667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30621418 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore and a grave example of water pollution. The water was fit for drinking till the early 1990s, when the industrial waste and sewage made it unsafe. Despite this, the lake sees a huge number of spot-billed pelicans migrating in the winter, especially in November and December. }} * {{do | name=Thippagondanahalli Reservoir | alt=TG Halli Reservoir | url= | email= | address={{km|35}} W of city centre | lat=12.973333 | long=77.3425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7784715 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=A reservoir at the confluence of the Arkavati and Kumudavati rivers. It is used by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) to supply water to the city. It is also a popular recreation spot in summer. Furthermore, it is said that a yogi used his supernatural powers to bring rain on the reservoir on 30 May 1985, when it had only 15 days of water supply. However, that rain is sometimes attributed to the regular south-western monsoon wind rather than any supernatural force. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=Sundaythespa | alt= | url=http://www.sundaythespa.com | email=info@sundaythespa.com | address=No.627/628, 5th Cross Road, 15th Main, 80 Feet Road, 4th Block, Koramangala Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-25520757 | tollfree=+91 80-25520758 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-17 | content=Incorporates Ayurvedic, Indian and East Asian practices, offers professional services by well-trained staff. }} ==Work== * {{listing | name=Electronic City | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.85 | long=77.67 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q298273 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=A major information technology (IT) cluster of the city, with offices of IT giants like TCS (Tata Consultancy Services), Infosys, Wipro, HCL (Hindustan Computers Limited) and Tech Mahindra. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Bannerghatta Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.91112 | long=77.60010 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=Grasshopper is a space that exhibits clothing designs from the most experimental designers in India and also showcases other ideas - lighting design, products, theatre, music - an open space for expression! If that's too boring, you can keep driving and you have a thousand ways that you can take to enjoy the wildlife and the myriad reservoirs strewn across the area - you can still find your very own private haven. }} * {{buy | name=Gandhi Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94594 | long=77.57058 | directions=in the heart of Basavangudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest shopping areas in Bangalore, Gandhi Bazaar stretches for a short kilometer or so, bordered on both sides by shops selling everything from saris and clothes to plastics and kitchen utensils, fronted by vegetable and fruit stalls. }} * {{buy | name=Jayanagar Shopping Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.92950 | long=77.58451 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2020-07-29| content=From antique jewellery stores, the authentic gold jewelry stores, saree stores, sweet meat stores, classic Iyengar bakeries, dress stores, and food stores that sell fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, and butter. Most of the products are comparatively cheap and are often value for money. }} * {{buy | name=Oasis Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Intermediate Ring Rd, Koramangala | lat=12.93749 | long=77.62804 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A two-story store on Victoria Road in the heart of the new mall shopping district. This was one of the most coveted stores until the malls came along. It's an easy place to go shopping when you don't want too many options to confuse you or when you're tired and don't want to visit too many shops - you can get everything under one roof here. Good for clothes, cosmetics, watches, jewellery, shoes etc. You also get stylish furniture and other home and living items for a decent price. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Royal Arts & Crafts | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2248 4797 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=21 K.H. Rd. Has a particularly wide selection of silk carpets and papier-mâché products. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Nexus Mall Koramangala | alt= | url=https://www.nexusmalls.com/nexus-koramangala | email=helpdesk.koramangalamall@nexusmalls.com | address=Hosru Rd | lat=12.934444 | long=77.611111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7734919 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=One of the well-known malls in Bangalore in an upscale suburb. Stores range from high international brands to traditional Indian Khadi clothing at the Khadder. The top floor of the mall contains an 11-screen cinema. For eating there is fast food and world cuisines including: Chinese, Vietnamese, Mexican and Italian and Indian. The PVR Cinema hall is here too. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Anjappar Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=#50, 100 Ft. Road, 4th Block Kormangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chettinad cuisine }} * {{eat | name=Friends Fast Food | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jyoti Nivas College Rd, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=300 m from Nexus mall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great Conti food at college prices. Casa Picola fans will like this one. }} * {{eat | name=Hyderabadi biriyani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Banerghatta Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near IIM -B, beside HSBC Bank and above Fabmall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves good biriyani }} * {{eat | name=Kairali | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Kamat Lokaruchi | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mysore Rd | lat= | long= | directions=just before Channapatna | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Amazing food and ambience. Authentic Mangalorean meals. }} * {{eat | name=Kebab Ki | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=for "Adana Kebab" and other Turkish dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Kollapuri's | url= | email= | address=429/31 30th Cross, 4th Block Jaya Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Near Jain Mandir | phone=+91 80 4121 1693, +91 80 2653 5207 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An authentic Maharashtrian hotel run by Savaji. It serves bhakri, chapati and "Sheckle Edme" special Savaji stuffed roti with spicy sabjis and meat or other non-veg items }} * {{eat | name=Konkan | alt= | url= | email= | address=6th cross, 6th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2552 1530 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean and Goan style cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Little Home | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 ft. Road, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Wipro K2 office | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very good south and central Kerala food. Bad service though. }} * {{eat | name=The Paramount Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Jyothi Nivas College | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=P!ing | alt= | url= | email= | address=No. 130, 1st Cross, 5th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Includes a dessert bay. Dim sum, sensible portions, good prices. }} * {{eat | name=Ponnuswamy | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near the National Games Village, opposite to Legends of Rock | phone=+91 80 4151 1919 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic south Tamil Nadu food. Try the biryani and sukka fry. No alcohol or smoking. Also at Residency Rd., next to Imperial Hotel. }} * {{eat | name=Rajvardhan Foods | url= | email= | address=1291 25th Main Road, 9th Block Jaya Nagar East | lat= | long= | directions=Near Big Bazaar | phone=+91 98 8630 3088, +91 98 8630 3089 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for its vadapav, sabudana vada, khichdi. It also offers bhakri, thalipeeth. The snacks and other food offered here is comparatively expensive. This is because it is Bangalore's only authentic Maharashtrian food outlet. It also serves food fresh, only prepared after placing the order, so the wait and price is compensated. The food quality is excellent. }} * {{eat | name=Tharavadu | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bommanahalli, Hosur Rd | lat= | long= | directions=After Silk Board | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Vayal | alt= | url= | email= | address=Outer ring road (around Central mall) | lat= | long= | directions=After Silk Board | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Vidyarthi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=32 Gandhi Bazaar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2667 7588 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another very old and traditional breakfast place, exclusively known for its Masala Dosa. Similar to MTR, you can find people who have been having breakfast here since times immemorial. }} * {{eat | name=Yogi's | alt= | url= | email= | address=#86, 21st Main, Banashankari 2nd Stage | lat= | long= | directions=near BDA Complex | phone=+91 98 4584 9025, +91 98 4539 7363 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The "Sakkat Burger" and "Sakkat Mexican" are a must have. Wide range of burgers, sandwiches, ice creams, shakes and sundaes available. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Foodline| url= | email= | address=502, 40th Cross, 8th block| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Nalapaka | url= | email= | address=(''across from HSBC Complex''), Bannerghatta, Arikere| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Park | url= | email= | address=585, 10th Main, 42nd cross, 5th Block Jayanagar| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} *'''Anand Bhavan''', Koramangala. This is a mostly breakfast and sweet place. It has many native foods such as Dosa, Idli, Vada, and Chutney. It has a wide range of Indian sweets such as Jalebis, and Rasgullas. * {{eat | name=Brahmin's Coffee Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=off ShankarMutt in Shankarapuram, Basavanagudi | phone=+91 87226 64284 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Famous for idly, vada and its delicious chutney. You also get khaarabath. Don't expect sambar for the vada here. }} * {{eat | name=Janani, J.P. Nagar | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place to have breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can have idli and sambar for ₹10 and a cup of tea for ₹8, a north Indian roti curry for ₹32. If you want to have good Punjabi food, go upstairs and get a good meals under ₹150. }} * {{eat | name=The Rameshwaram Cafe@JP Nagar | alt= | url= | email= | address=52, Outer Ring Road | lat=12.90643 | long=77.59059 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Shettara Beedi | alt=food street | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The entire street adjoining the famous VB Bakery at V V Puram is Bangalore's miniature version of Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor foodstalls. A haven for anyone who enjoys hawker fare, one can stall-hop and have a variety of snacks that'll satisfy even the most ravenous hunger and spend less than ₹100 in total. Some of the must-try dishes are dum-root and butter-bun congress at VB Bakery. The dosas, ''obbattu (sweet pancake)'', ''akkirotti (rice pancake)'', fried ''bondas'', butter-gulkand, and masala-pepsi available at the various stalls are also delicious. The street comes alive only in the evenings (after 6PM) and that only vegetarian fare is available here. }} * {{eat | name=Udupi Garden | url= | email= | address=16th Main BTM Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Simple Udupi restaurant. Serves very good south Indian dishes at nominal prices. Also serves north Indian food. }} * {{eat | name=Upahara Darshini | url= | email= | address=DVG Rd, Basavanagudi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another of Bangalore's new found Darshinis dishing out top notch masala dosa and Vada Sambhar. }} * {{eat | name=Vidhyarthi Bhavan | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=off Gandhi Bazar in Basavanagudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A gastronomic haven offering some of the best masala dosa in the world. This quaint little place is so famous that it has not even bothered to change its age-old sign board, and who needs it anyway, the aroma wafting through the air is a good enough indication that you are in the vicinity of the place. Get there early for a breakfast, there's always a bee-line for places to sit. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=The Egg Factory | alt= | url= | email= | address=St.Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4211 0041 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Multi-cuisine, The menu, as the name suggests, is all based on the indispensable ''egg''. Its also modelled on a factory with functional chairs and a menu that looks like an instruction manual. Its open for all day dining. Egg dishes from all over the world, including omelttes, scrambles, French toast, curries, sub's, pasta & desserts. Don't miss the fantastic huevos rancheros here, they make it as good as in Mexico. Innovative drinks, try the ''Chlorophyll Fix'', it looks and sounds weird, but tastes like heaven. Highly relaxed service. }} * {{eat | name=Grill Maximus | url= | email= | address=17th cross 4 main HSR Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Famous for the Mediterranean cuisine.Also serve Arabian Indian and Italian Food. Only A la carte menu is available. ₹200-500 }} * {{eat | name=Sahib Sindh Sultan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Level 2, Nexus Mall, Hosur Rd, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2206 7878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Train-themed restaurant with a delicious, upscale menu. It is supposed to showcase NWFP. Their kakori kebabs are excellent. It also serves wine with the food. Expect a long wait. Or book ahead and roam around the mall or grab a few drinks from the adjoining '''Firangi Paani'''. ₹150-500 }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=La Classic Hotel Extraordinaire | alt= | url=http://www.laclassic.in/ | email= | address=Plot# 158, Yadavanahalli, Hosur Main road, Attibele | lat= | long= | directions=Opp. Applicomp (India) Ltd. | phone=+91 80 3910 1000, +91 80 3910 1111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-06-19| content=The only fine dining multi-cuisine restaurant outside Electronic City and on the way to Hosur caters to buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner apart from a selection from an international menu. }} *{{eat | name=Grasshopper | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 Kalena Agrahara, Bannerghata Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2659-3999, +91 98 4545-2646 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Freshly prepared seven course meal served on the table. Reservation required. Closed on Mondays. }} ===East Indian cuisine=== * {{eat | name=36 Chowringhee Lane | alt= | url= | email= | address=100ft Rd, BTM Layout | lat= | long= | directions=opp Reliance Fresh | phone=+91 80 4124 0979 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Bengali cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Bangaliana | alt= | url= | email= | address=355, 1st 'B' Main, 7th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=opp. HDFC Bank | phone=+91 80 2571 1058 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Bengali Delicacies (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) Restaurant, Take-away, Catering. Specialities: fish, mutton chicken and, of course, sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Bhojohori Manna | alt= | url= | email= | address=668/B 6th Block, Koramangala Club Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2550 3666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Free home delivery }} * {{eat | name=Dalama | url= | email= | address=#37, 6th block, Koramangala, 100 ft Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Kamat Hotel, Koramangala | phone=+91 80 4166 0921 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Odia cuisine including vegetable curries, chapati, meat, fish, prawn, crab and chicken delicacies. }} * {{eat | name=The Esplanade | alt= | url= | email= | address=KHB Colony | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4092 7878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers authentic Bengali cuisine. They also have a continental menu. }} ===European cuisine=== * {{eat | name=Cafe Y | alt= | url= | email= | address=Langford Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Prestige Elgin, Hosur Rd-Langford Rd junction | phone=+91 80 5114 4561 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Amazing sizzlers and steaks, nice ambiance. }} * {{eat | name=Via Milano | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Sony World | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Italian food. 3 course meal for 2 will cost an average of ₹2,000, (wine not included). }} ===North Indian cuisine=== * {{eat | name=Bay Leaf | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raheja Arcade, opposite Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A really nice place with reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Grameen | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raheja Arcade, opposite Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the best places to have good vegetarian North Indian food. }} * {{eat | name=Rasilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=JP Nagar 7 Phase, Shreyas Colony | lat= | long= | directions=close to Brigade Millennium & Elita Promenade Apartments, near RBI layout | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice place with very fine cuisine. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Caffe Pascucci | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Cafe-Pascucci-Bangalore-57902917850/ | email= | address=690/A, 15 Cross Road, 14th Main Road, Phase II, J P Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 2134 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Italian coffee chain brand. In 2010, Pascucci set up its own coffee retail shop in India with 10 outlets in Bangalore at prominent localities like Jayanagar, JP Nagar, MG Road, Malleshwaram and Indiranagar. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=J'Cubez | alt= | url= | email= | address=Banashankari 2nd Stage, opp. BDA complex | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For rock lovers }} * {{drink | name=Jimi's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Road, Koramangala 80ft. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A nice dark cozy bar along with Rock music and video. Best visited during weekends and is not hard on your pocket. }} * {{drink | name=Legends of Rock | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 Foot Rd, 6th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4130 3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Watch the Legends perform on large format TVs. }} * {{drink | name=Olio | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4092 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great ambiance with beer, wines and continental food. }} * {{drink | name=Purple Haze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Road, Koramangala (close to Jyothi Niwas College) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular for the classic rock that's played there. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=Barleyz - The Brew House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Above Taco Bell, Sony World signal, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Microbrewery }} * {{drink | name=Fuga | alt= | url= | email= | address=Richmond Town | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The best place for house music lovers. Expensive and fashionable. }} * {{drink | name=Firangi Paani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Art of Living Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.artofliving.org/in-en/bangalore | email=housing@vvmvp.org | address=Kanakapura Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026080204 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹400 | lastedit=2017-04-21 | content=Free food is given three times a day. Accommodation is shared between four people. The campus is undulating in terrain, and a free shuttle service is available between the numerous hostels and meditation centres. Very green campus with winding footpaths. Beware of snakes. (This hostel is two hours away from Bangalore city railway station in peak traffic.). }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Grand Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Cottonpet | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22374786 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹900 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Naveen | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cottonpet Main Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 222 55609 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹550 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Kamat Hotel | alt= | url= | email=kamathotellalbaghwestgate@gmail.com | address=227, Lalbagh West Gate R.V.Road, VV.Puram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-483 47 571, +91 80 2242 1839 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,400 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Manjunatha Paradise Delux Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=First Main, Cottonpet | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-22386909, +91 80223 86910 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹700 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Shree Vaishnav Gujarati Samaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gandhinagar | lat= | long= | directions=near Sapna cinema, Kempe Gowda Circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Costs ₹50 | content=A secure and decent place to stay if you are there for a day or two. A nice canteen with Gujarati food available. In the vicinity there is another good place available for fast food/lunch named "SLV". }} * {{sleep | name=Sri Gajanana Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cottonpete Main Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 89044 61010 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=The Bouvice | alt= | url=http://www.bouvice.com | email=info@bouvice.com | address=141C, S.T. Bed Layout, 1st Main Kormangala, Sector 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4152 4429, +91 93 4285 6034 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A beautiful apartment hotel in Kormangala. }} * {{sleep | name=Maple Suites | alt= | url=http://www.maplesuites.in | email= | address=#142 & 143, Dollar Layout. 4th Main, BTM II Stage | lat= | long= | directions=off Bannerghatta Road opp to Mantri Elite. | phone=+91 80 4282 2428 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=₹1,999 | content=Long and short-term stay. }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} loft00j2xxxxubl1esk2y2v9mz1f47p 5091201 5091191 2025-07-11T05:43:32Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Temples */ 5091201 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=South Bangalore}} '''South Bangalore''' is the southern part of the city. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.88|77.579|width=500|height=500|zoom=12|name=Map of South Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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==See== ===Ashrams=== [[File:The art of living international center.jpg|thumbnail|The Art of Living]] * {{see | name=The Art of Living | alt= | url=http://www.artofliving.org/bangalore-ashram | email=info@vvmvp.org | address=Kanakapura Rd, Udayapura | lat=12.825845 | long=77.508759 | directions=near Cricket Coaching ground | phone=+91 9448386061, +91 80 67262626, +91 80 6726262627, +91 80 6726262628 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1666330 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content=The international headquarters of the Art of Living Foundation. The ashram is spread over 65 acres and was established in 1986. They conduct frequent yoga and Ayurveda programmes. The campus is also the focal point of many service projects, such as rural development and education, organic farming initiatives, and research into the benefits of ‘Sudarshan Kriya’. While at the ashram, one cannot miss the Satsangs that are held every evening. Satsangs are gatherings where scattered minds unite through music, meditation, and wisdom to experience a higher state of consciousness. People from all over the world who know different languages participate in the singing of bhajans, or the repetitive chanting of a word or a verse. }} * {{see | name=Ramakrishna Math | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94877 | long=77.56676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=There are many Ramakrishna ashrams in Bangalore, but the special and central one is in Gandhi Bazaar, an area with many temples. This mutt contains a vast meditating hall, a beautiful park, a Vedic school and many more facilities. Sarada Devi had meditated on a location in the park in this boundary. This location is preserved as a monument. A stone on which Swami Vivekananda sat when he visited Bangalore is also kept as a monument. This is a calm and peaceful place to meditate. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Indian Music Experience Museum | alt= | url=https://www.indianmusicexperience.org/ | email=info@indianmusicexperience.org | address=Brigade Millenium Ave, 7th Phase, JP Nagar | lat=12.89177 | long=77.58372 | directions=opposite Wood Rose Club | phone=+91 96866 02366 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM (closed M) | price=₹250 for persons over 12, ₹150 for senior citizens | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=The only interactive music museum in India with exhibits on traditional and contemporary Indian music. The museum also hosts a learning centre to learn music. }} * {{see | name=NIMHANS Brain Museum | alt= | url=http://www.nimhans.ac.in/neurobiology-research-centre-nrc/ | email= | address=Hosur Rd | lat=12.940639 | long=77.598778 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30314570 | lastedit=2023-06-11 | content=A rather unusual museum with a collection of several different human brains. }} ===Natural attractions=== [[File:Bangalore Lalbagh IMG 1612.JPG|thumbnail|Lalbagh Botanical Garden]] * {{see | name=[[Bannerghatta National Park]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.800833 | long=77.575556 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2588520 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A national park at the outskirts with a zoo, a pet corner, an animal rescue centre, a butterfly enclosure, an aquarium, a snake house and a safari park. }} * {{see | name=Bugle Rock | alt=Kahale Band | url= | email= | address=Basavanagudi | lat=12.94 | long=77.57 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4986214 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A massive rock of peninsular gneiss. Kempe Gowda II built a tower on the Bugle Rock to mark the southern limit of the city. }} * {{see | name=Dodda Alada Mara | alt=ದೊಡ್ಡ ಆಲದ ಮರ; Big Banyan Tree | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9094 | long=77.3956 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5287736 | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A giant 400-year-old Banyan tree about {{km|28}} from central Bangalore. This single plant covers 3 acres and is one of the largest of its kind. Buses can be taken from Majestic to Kengeri and then from Kengeri to Doda Alada Mara. There are direct buses from K. R. Market to Dodda Alada mara, which stops just beside the tree. The tree is the natural home of numerous monkeys, and you should be careful with food, water, camera bags, and anything else that can be snatched away. }} * {{see | name=Turahalli Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.881683 | long=77.524982 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19899050 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=The dry and deciduous forest is a hot spot for cyclists. Most trees are eucalyptus. The orchids bloom during August, giving a brilliant white colour to contrast with the green of the forest. The forest is famous for harbouring different species of birds. Turahalli is also a natural rock climbing spot. The granite rocks come in various sizes and shapes. Many climbers practice here regularly to prepare for local or international competitions. There's a small Shani temple atop a rocky hill. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Nandi Temple Bangalore 5-11-2008 12-08-41 PM.JPG|thumb|Nandi at the Bull Temple]] * {{see | name=Bull Temple | alt=Dodda Ganeshana Gudi | url= | email= | address=Bull Temple Rd, NR Colony, Basavanagudi | lat=12.941848 | long=77.567948 | directions='''Majestic''': 43A-E, 45A-E, '''Shivajinagar''': 34A-F, 37A-F, '''Jayanagar'''/'''Vijayanagar''': 60A-K (Ramakrishna Ashrama) | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1531614 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A typical Dravidian-style temple, famous for its mammoth bull statue that was carved from a single boulder. Legend has it that the temple was built to appease a marauding bull that stole local crops and that the offering was effective, with the bull subsequently leaving the area. Since then, local farmers have held an annual festival to express their gratitude. }} * {{see | name=Chandra Choodeswarar Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hosur | lat= | long= | directions={{km|20}} from central Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28402744 | lastedit=2023-06-05 | content=An ancient Shiva temple. The exact history of the temple is unknown. This is the only temple in Northern Tamil Nadu that has a golden chariot that is used for temple functions. }} * {{see | name=Dodda Ganapathi | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94289 | long=77.56823 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest temples in Bangalore, it is adjacent to the Bull Temple. The temple is famous for the huge monolith structure of Lord Ganesha, who was worshipped by the villagers to save them from the Bull that was damaging their crops in the area. The Bull Temple is a few metres away from this temple. }} * {{see | name=Gavi Gangadeshwara Cave Temple | url= | email= | address=Gavipuram, Kempegowda Nagar | lat=12.94829 | long=77.56322 | directions=right north of Hanumantha Nagar Park, north of Ramanjaneya Temple, in Gavipuram, adjacent to Basavanagudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-12:30PM and 5-8:30PM | price= | content=Built by Kempe Gowda, this temple with four remarkable monolithic pillars is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple also has a rare idol of fire-god "Agni". The annual festival is on ''Makara Sankranti'' and thousands of devotees flock to see the sun's rays fall on the ''Shivlinga''. }} * {{see | name=Jnanakshi Rajarajeshwari Temple | alt= | url=https://rajarajeshwari.in/home/home | email= | address=Rajarajeshwari Nagar | lat=12.926731 | long=77.510492 | directions=just before Kengeri on Mysore Road | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q127427594 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati (Raja Rajeshwari). It was built by a renowned spiritual guru, Sri Sri Sri Tiruchi Mahaswaigal. Built in the ancient style with stones, the temple is very spacious. One can feel the peace and satisfaction when visiting. Weekends are very crowded. }} * {{see | name=Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bannerghatta Rd | lat=12.87495 | long=77.59435 | directions=after Indian Institute of Management, south of Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Beautiful, spacious temple devoted to Sri Meenakshi Amma. Built in ancient style with stone structures, this place is a very cool and mind-refreshing place to see. You will feel the temple vibe of Tamil Nadu if you enter this temple complex in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=Mukti Naga Temple | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakavision.com/mukti-naga-temple.php | email= | address= | lat=12.91465 | long=77.42299 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Contains the world's largest monolithic statue of Lord Naaga, about 16 feet tall and weighing 36 tons. The Mukti Naga Temple, which is run by Shri Subrahmanya Seva Trust, is in a serene ambience of Ramohalli, a village on the outskirts of the city. }} * {{see | name=Nageshwara Temple | alt=Naganatheshwara Temple | url= | email= | address=Begur | lat=12.87674 | long=77.62671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6958784 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A temple complex built during the Western Ganga dynasty, with later-day additions by the Chola, Hoysala and Vijayanagara dynasties. It is known for bearing the oldest mention of the name "Bengaluru". The temple has a simple square sanctum, a vestibule that connects the sanctum to a great hall, which leads to an open hall. The open hall has six pillars, with an image of Nandi placed on a lotus platform in the outer bay. The sanctum has a lingam, the universal symbol of the god Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Ragi Gudda | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jayanagar 9th block | lat=12.91482 | long=77.59330 | directions=South of Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a famous Hanuman temple abode. The temple is on a mammoth rocky hill, and has very attractive chain of temples like Spathika Shiva, Ganesha and scenery within the premises. This is a very crowd attracting place during the period of Hanuman Jayanti in December. You get mahaprasadam meals on Saturday noon-1PM. }} * {{see | name=Shree Guruvayurappan Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kanakapura Rd, Nettigere | lat=12.76094 | long=77.48794 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A small and nice Kerala-style temple which gives a great vibe of peace and tranquillity. Only traditional attire is allowed to enter the sanctum (dhotis for men and sarees for women). }} * {{see | name=Vasantha Vallabharaya Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.89541 | long=77.55183 | directions=''' Majestic''' 210E, 210R '''Shivajinagar''' 210G , '''Market''': 210, 210D, 210E, '''Electronic City'''/'''Kengeri''' : 378) In South Bangalore, close to Sai Baba Temple, Eashwara Temple, Anjaneya Temple, off Vasantapura Road | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A small hillock with an ancient temple dedicated to Sri Vasantha Vallabharaya Swamy. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Ranga Shankara | alt= | url=http://www.rangashankara.org/ | email= | address=36/2, 8th Cross, J.P. Nagar, 2nd Phase | lat=12.911513 | long=77.587053 | directions= | phone=+91 80 26592777, +91 80 26494656 | tollfree= | hours=Evening shows start at 7:30PM | price=₹45–100 | wikidata=Q7292595 | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Many local groups perform here, although more often shows are presented by travelling groups touring India. The quality of the performances varies, but most plays are worth seeing, especially the ones by Indian playwrights or directors, as they can show you an Indian (or non-Western) perspective. Shows are in various languages, so it is a good idea to double-check whether the play is in English before buying or reserving (blocking) tickets. Audience members need to be present on time to be allowed entry to the theatre. It does not matter whether you are stuck in traffic or paid in advance, you simply will not be allowed inside after the specific time mentioned as the start time. }} * {{do | name=Ultimate Frisbee Club | alt= | url=http://www.learningtofly.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Although in a nascent stage, Ultimate Frisbee games are held on Tu Th Sa mornings starting 6:30AM. The teams comprise of players of all skill levels. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Kadlekai Parishe (Peanut fair) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94500 | long=77.56786 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Every year, sometime during the months of Nov-Dec, the area around Bull Temple Road in South Bangalore hosts a peanut fair. Centuries ago, the villages in and around this area used to cultivate peanuts and the custom was to dedicate the first crop to Nandi (the Bull at the temple). Although the villages of yore are today residential areas, the tradition continues as peanut farmers congregate to sell their crop. The 2 day traditional fair has many stalls that sell peanuts, trinkets, bangles, pottery, dolls etc. There are also a number of food stalls. }} ===Lakes=== [[File:Madiwala Lake West Side.jpg|thumb|Madiwala Lake]] * {{do | name=Madiwala Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.907778 | long=77.616667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30621418 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore and a grave example of water pollution. The water was fit for drinking till the early 1990s, when the industrial waste and sewage made it unsafe. Despite this, the lake sees a huge number of spot-billed pelicans migrating in the winter, especially in November and December. }} * {{do | name=Thippagondanahalli Reservoir | alt=TG Halli Reservoir | url= | email= | address={{km|35}} W of city centre | lat=12.973333 | long=77.3425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7784715 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=A reservoir at the confluence of the Arkavati and Kumudavati rivers. It is used by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) to supply water to the city. It is also a popular recreation spot in summer. Furthermore, it is said that a yogi used his supernatural powers to bring rain on the reservoir on 30 May 1985, when it had only 15 days of water supply. However, that rain is sometimes attributed to the regular south-western monsoon wind rather than any supernatural force. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=Sundaythespa | alt= | url=http://www.sundaythespa.com | email=info@sundaythespa.com | address=No.627/628, 5th Cross Road, 15th Main, 80 Feet Road, 4th Block, Koramangala Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-25520757 | tollfree=+91 80-25520758 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-17 | content=Incorporates Ayurvedic, Indian and East Asian practices, offers professional services by well-trained staff. }} ==Work== * {{listing | name=Electronic City | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.85 | long=77.67 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q298273 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=A major information technology (IT) cluster of the city, with offices of IT giants like TCS (Tata Consultancy Services), Infosys, Wipro, HCL (Hindustan Computers Limited) and Tech Mahindra. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Bannerghatta Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.91112 | long=77.60010 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=Grasshopper is a space that exhibits clothing designs from the most experimental designers in India and also showcases other ideas - lighting design, products, theatre, music - an open space for expression! If that's too boring, you can keep driving and you have a thousand ways that you can take to enjoy the wildlife and the myriad reservoirs strewn across the area - you can still find your very own private haven. }} * {{buy | name=Gandhi Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94594 | long=77.57058 | directions=in the heart of Basavangudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest shopping areas in Bangalore, Gandhi Bazaar stretches for a short kilometer or so, bordered on both sides by shops selling everything from saris and clothes to plastics and kitchen utensils, fronted by vegetable and fruit stalls. }} * {{buy | name=Jayanagar Shopping Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.92950 | long=77.58451 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2020-07-29| content=From antique jewellery stores, the authentic gold jewelry stores, saree stores, sweet meat stores, classic Iyengar bakeries, dress stores, and food stores that sell fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, and butter. Most of the products are comparatively cheap and are often value for money. }} * {{buy | name=Oasis Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Intermediate Ring Rd, Koramangala | lat=12.93749 | long=77.62804 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A two-story store on Victoria Road in the heart of the new mall shopping district. This was one of the most coveted stores until the malls came along. It's an easy place to go shopping when you don't want too many options to confuse you or when you're tired and don't want to visit too many shops - you can get everything under one roof here. Good for clothes, cosmetics, watches, jewellery, shoes etc. You also get stylish furniture and other home and living items for a decent price. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Royal Arts & Crafts | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2248 4797 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=21 K.H. Rd. Has a particularly wide selection of silk carpets and papier-mâché products. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Nexus Mall Koramangala | alt= | url=https://www.nexusmalls.com/nexus-koramangala | email=helpdesk.koramangalamall@nexusmalls.com | address=Hosru Rd | lat=12.934444 | long=77.611111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7734919 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=One of the well-known malls in Bangalore in an upscale suburb. Stores range from high international brands to traditional Indian Khadi clothing at the Khadder. The top floor of the mall contains an 11-screen cinema. For eating there is fast food and world cuisines including: Chinese, Vietnamese, Mexican and Italian and Indian. The PVR Cinema hall is here too. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Anjappar Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=#50, 100 Ft. Road, 4th Block Kormangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chettinad cuisine }} * {{eat | name=Friends Fast Food | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jyoti Nivas College Rd, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=300 m from Nexus mall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great Conti food at college prices. Casa Picola fans will like this one. }} * {{eat | name=Hyderabadi biriyani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Banerghatta Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near IIM -B, beside HSBC Bank and above Fabmall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves good biriyani }} * {{eat | name=Kairali | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Kamat Lokaruchi | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mysore Rd | lat= | long= | directions=just before Channapatna | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Amazing food and ambience. Authentic Mangalorean meals. }} * {{eat | name=Kebab Ki | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=for "Adana Kebab" and other Turkish dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Kollapuri's | url= | email= | address=429/31 30th Cross, 4th Block Jaya Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Near Jain Mandir | phone=+91 80 4121 1693, +91 80 2653 5207 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An authentic Maharashtrian hotel run by Savaji. It serves bhakri, chapati and "Sheckle Edme" special Savaji stuffed roti with spicy sabjis and meat or other non-veg items }} * {{eat | name=Konkan | alt= | url= | email= | address=6th cross, 6th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2552 1530 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean and Goan style cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Little Home | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 ft. Road, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Wipro K2 office | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very good south and central Kerala food. Bad service though. }} * {{eat | name=The Paramount Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Jyothi Nivas College | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=P!ing | alt= | url= | email= | address=No. 130, 1st Cross, 5th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Includes a dessert bay. Dim sum, sensible portions, good prices. }} * {{eat | name=Ponnuswamy | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near the National Games Village, opposite to Legends of Rock | phone=+91 80 4151 1919 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic south Tamil Nadu food. Try the biryani and sukka fry. No alcohol or smoking. Also at Residency Rd., next to Imperial Hotel. }} * {{eat | name=Rajvardhan Foods | url= | email= | address=1291 25th Main Road, 9th Block Jaya Nagar East | lat= | long= | directions=Near Big Bazaar | phone=+91 98 8630 3088, +91 98 8630 3089 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for its vadapav, sabudana vada, khichdi. It also offers bhakri, thalipeeth. The snacks and other food offered here is comparatively expensive. This is because it is Bangalore's only authentic Maharashtrian food outlet. It also serves food fresh, only prepared after placing the order, so the wait and price is compensated. The food quality is excellent. }} * {{eat | name=Tharavadu | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bommanahalli, Hosur Rd | lat= | long= | directions=After Silk Board | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Vayal | alt= | url= | email= | address=Outer ring road (around Central mall) | lat= | long= | directions=After Silk Board | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Vidyarthi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=32 Gandhi Bazaar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2667 7588 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another very old and traditional breakfast place, exclusively known for its Masala Dosa. Similar to MTR, you can find people who have been having breakfast here since times immemorial. }} * {{eat | name=Yogi's | alt= | url= | email= | address=#86, 21st Main, Banashankari 2nd Stage | lat= | long= | directions=near BDA Complex | phone=+91 98 4584 9025, +91 98 4539 7363 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The "Sakkat Burger" and "Sakkat Mexican" are a must have. Wide range of burgers, sandwiches, ice creams, shakes and sundaes available. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Foodline| url= | email= | address=502, 40th Cross, 8th block| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Nalapaka | url= | email= | address=(''across from HSBC Complex''), Bannerghatta, Arikere| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Park | url= | email= | address=585, 10th Main, 42nd cross, 5th Block Jayanagar| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} *'''Anand Bhavan''', Koramangala. This is a mostly breakfast and sweet place. It has many native foods such as Dosa, Idli, Vada, and Chutney. It has a wide range of Indian sweets such as Jalebis, and Rasgullas. * {{eat | name=Brahmin's Coffee Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=off ShankarMutt in Shankarapuram, Basavanagudi | phone=+91 87226 64284 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Famous for idly, vada and its delicious chutney. You also get khaarabath. Don't expect sambar for the vada here. }} * {{eat | name=Janani, J.P. Nagar | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place to have breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can have idli and sambar for ₹10 and a cup of tea for ₹8, a north Indian roti curry for ₹32. If you want to have good Punjabi food, go upstairs and get a good meals under ₹150. }} * {{eat | name=The Rameshwaram Cafe@JP Nagar | alt= | url= | email= | address=52, Outer Ring Road | lat=12.90643 | long=77.59059 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Shettara Beedi | alt=food street | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The entire street adjoining the famous VB Bakery at V V Puram is Bangalore's miniature version of Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor foodstalls. A haven for anyone who enjoys hawker fare, one can stall-hop and have a variety of snacks that'll satisfy even the most ravenous hunger and spend less than ₹100 in total. Some of the must-try dishes are dum-root and butter-bun congress at VB Bakery. The dosas, ''obbattu (sweet pancake)'', ''akkirotti (rice pancake)'', fried ''bondas'', butter-gulkand, and masala-pepsi available at the various stalls are also delicious. The street comes alive only in the evenings (after 6PM) and that only vegetarian fare is available here. }} * {{eat | name=Udupi Garden | url= | email= | address=16th Main BTM Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Simple Udupi restaurant. Serves very good south Indian dishes at nominal prices. Also serves north Indian food. }} * {{eat | name=Upahara Darshini | url= | email= | address=DVG Rd, Basavanagudi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another of Bangalore's new found Darshinis dishing out top notch masala dosa and Vada Sambhar. }} * {{eat | name=Vidhyarthi Bhavan | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=off Gandhi Bazar in Basavanagudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A gastronomic haven offering some of the best masala dosa in the world. This quaint little place is so famous that it has not even bothered to change its age-old sign board, and who needs it anyway, the aroma wafting through the air is a good enough indication that you are in the vicinity of the place. Get there early for a breakfast, there's always a bee-line for places to sit. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=The Egg Factory | alt= | url= | email= | address=St.Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4211 0041 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Multi-cuisine, The menu, as the name suggests, is all based on the indispensable ''egg''. Its also modelled on a factory with functional chairs and a menu that looks like an instruction manual. Its open for all day dining. Egg dishes from all over the world, including omelttes, scrambles, French toast, curries, sub's, pasta & desserts. Don't miss the fantastic huevos rancheros here, they make it as good as in Mexico. Innovative drinks, try the ''Chlorophyll Fix'', it looks and sounds weird, but tastes like heaven. Highly relaxed service. }} * {{eat | name=Grill Maximus | url= | email= | address=17th cross 4 main HSR Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Famous for the Mediterranean cuisine.Also serve Arabian Indian and Italian Food. Only A la carte menu is available. ₹200-500 }} * {{eat | name=Sahib Sindh Sultan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Level 2, Nexus Mall, Hosur Rd, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2206 7878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Train-themed restaurant with a delicious, upscale menu. It is supposed to showcase NWFP. Their kakori kebabs are excellent. It also serves wine with the food. Expect a long wait. Or book ahead and roam around the mall or grab a few drinks from the adjoining '''Firangi Paani'''. ₹150-500 }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=La Classic Hotel Extraordinaire | alt= | url=http://www.laclassic.in/ | email= | address=Plot# 158, Yadavanahalli, Hosur Main road, Attibele | lat= | long= | directions=Opp. Applicomp (India) Ltd. | phone=+91 80 3910 1000, +91 80 3910 1111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-06-19| content=The only fine dining multi-cuisine restaurant outside Electronic City and on the way to Hosur caters to buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner apart from a selection from an international menu. }} *{{eat | name=Grasshopper | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 Kalena Agrahara, Bannerghata Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2659-3999, +91 98 4545-2646 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Freshly prepared seven course meal served on the table. Reservation required. Closed on Mondays. }} ===East Indian cuisine=== * {{eat | name=36 Chowringhee Lane | alt= | url= | email= | address=100ft Rd, BTM Layout | lat= | long= | directions=opp Reliance Fresh | phone=+91 80 4124 0979 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Bengali cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Bangaliana | alt= | url= | email= | address=355, 1st 'B' Main, 7th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=opp. HDFC Bank | phone=+91 80 2571 1058 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Bengali Delicacies (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) Restaurant, Take-away, Catering. Specialities: fish, mutton chicken and, of course, sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Bhojohori Manna | alt= | url= | email= | address=668/B 6th Block, Koramangala Club Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2550 3666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Free home delivery }} * {{eat | name=Dalama | url= | email= | address=#37, 6th block, Koramangala, 100 ft Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Kamat Hotel, Koramangala | phone=+91 80 4166 0921 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Odia cuisine including vegetable curries, chapati, meat, fish, prawn, crab and chicken delicacies. }} * {{eat | name=The Esplanade | alt= | url= | email= | address=KHB Colony | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4092 7878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers authentic Bengali cuisine. They also have a continental menu. }} ===European cuisine=== * {{eat | name=Cafe Y | alt= | url= | email= | address=Langford Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Prestige Elgin, Hosur Rd-Langford Rd junction | phone=+91 80 5114 4561 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Amazing sizzlers and steaks, nice ambiance. }} * {{eat | name=Via Milano | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Sony World | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Italian food. 3 course meal for 2 will cost an average of ₹2,000, (wine not included). }} ===North Indian cuisine=== * {{eat | name=Bay Leaf | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raheja Arcade, opposite Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A really nice place with reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Grameen | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raheja Arcade, opposite Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the best places to have good vegetarian North Indian food. }} * {{eat | name=Rasilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=JP Nagar 7 Phase, Shreyas Colony | lat= | long= | directions=close to Brigade Millennium & Elita Promenade Apartments, near RBI layout | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice place with very fine cuisine. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Caffe Pascucci | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Cafe-Pascucci-Bangalore-57902917850/ | email= | address=690/A, 15 Cross Road, 14th Main Road, Phase II, J P Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 2134 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Italian coffee chain brand. In 2010, Pascucci set up its own coffee retail shop in India with 10 outlets in Bangalore at prominent localities like Jayanagar, JP Nagar, MG Road, Malleshwaram and Indiranagar. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=J'Cubez | alt= | url= | email= | address=Banashankari 2nd Stage, opp. BDA complex | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For rock lovers }} * {{drink | name=Jimi's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Road, Koramangala 80ft. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A nice dark cozy bar along with Rock music and video. Best visited during weekends and is not hard on your pocket. }} * {{drink | name=Legends of Rock | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 Foot Rd, 6th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4130 3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Watch the Legends perform on large format TVs. }} * {{drink | name=Olio | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4092 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great ambiance with beer, wines and continental food. }} * {{drink | name=Purple Haze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Road, Koramangala (close to Jyothi Niwas College) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular for the classic rock that's played there. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=Barleyz - The Brew House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Above Taco Bell, Sony World signal, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Microbrewery }} * {{drink | name=Fuga | alt= | url= | email= | address=Richmond Town | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The best place for house music lovers. Expensive and fashionable. }} * {{drink | name=Firangi Paani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Art of Living Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.artofliving.org/in-en/bangalore | email=housing@vvmvp.org | address=Kanakapura Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026080204 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹400 | lastedit=2017-04-21 | content=Free food is given three times a day. Accommodation is shared between four people. The campus is undulating in terrain, and a free shuttle service is available between the numerous hostels and meditation centres. Very green campus with winding footpaths. Beware of snakes. (This hostel is two hours away from Bangalore city railway station in peak traffic.). }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Grand Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Cottonpet | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22374786 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹900 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Naveen | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cottonpet Main Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 222 55609 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹550 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Kamat Hotel | alt= | url= | email=kamathotellalbaghwestgate@gmail.com | address=227, Lalbagh West Gate R.V.Road, VV.Puram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-483 47 571, +91 80 2242 1839 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,400 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Manjunatha Paradise Delux Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=First Main, Cottonpet | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-22386909, +91 80223 86910 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹700 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Shree Vaishnav Gujarati Samaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gandhinagar | lat= | long= | directions=near Sapna cinema, Kempe Gowda Circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Costs ₹50 | content=A secure and decent place to stay if you are there for a day or two. A nice canteen with Gujarati food available. In the vicinity there is another good place available for fast food/lunch named "SLV". }} * {{sleep | name=Sri Gajanana Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cottonpete Main Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 89044 61010 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=The Bouvice | alt= | url=http://www.bouvice.com | email=info@bouvice.com | address=141C, S.T. Bed Layout, 1st Main Kormangala, Sector 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4152 4429, +91 93 4285 6034 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A beautiful apartment hotel in Kormangala. }} * {{sleep | name=Maple Suites | alt= | url=http://www.maplesuites.in | email= | address=#142 & 143, Dollar Layout. 4th Main, BTM II Stage | lat= | long= | directions=off Bannerghatta Road opp to Mantri Elite. | phone=+91 80 4282 2428 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=₹1,999 | content=Long and short-term stay. }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} 08wjr0t04imgo1cn2dptsjcggzwpthz 5091205 5091201 2025-07-11T05:46:57Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Museums */ Updated listing for NIMHANS Brain Museum 5091205 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=South Bangalore}} '''South Bangalore''' is the southern part of the city. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.88|77.579|width=500|height=500|zoom=12|name=Map of South Bangalore}} 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==See== ===Ashrams=== [[File:The art of living international center.jpg|thumbnail|The Art of Living]] * {{see | name=The Art of Living | alt= | url=http://www.artofliving.org/bangalore-ashram | email=info@vvmvp.org | address=Kanakapura Rd, Udayapura | lat=12.825845 | long=77.508759 | directions=near Cricket Coaching ground | phone=+91 9448386061, +91 80 67262626, +91 80 6726262627, +91 80 6726262628 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1666330 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content=The international headquarters of the Art of Living Foundation. The ashram is spread over 65 acres and was established in 1986. They conduct frequent yoga and Ayurveda programmes. The campus is also the focal point of many service projects, such as rural development and education, organic farming initiatives, and research into the benefits of ‘Sudarshan Kriya’. While at the ashram, one cannot miss the Satsangs that are held every evening. Satsangs are gatherings where scattered minds unite through music, meditation, and wisdom to experience a higher state of consciousness. People from all over the world who know different languages participate in the singing of bhajans, or the repetitive chanting of a word or a verse. }} * {{see | name=Ramakrishna Math | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94877 | long=77.56676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=There are many Ramakrishna ashrams in Bangalore, but the special and central one is in Gandhi Bazaar, an area with many temples. This mutt contains a vast meditating hall, a beautiful park, a Vedic school and many more facilities. Sarada Devi had meditated on a location in the park in this boundary. This location is preserved as a monument. A stone on which Swami Vivekananda sat when he visited Bangalore is also kept as a monument. This is a calm and peaceful place to meditate. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Indian Music Experience Museum | alt= | url=https://www.indianmusicexperience.org/ | email=info@indianmusicexperience.org | address=Brigade Millenium Ave, 7th Phase, JP Nagar | lat=12.89177 | long=77.58372 | directions=opposite Wood Rose Club | phone=+91 96866 02366 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM (closed M) | price=₹250 for persons over 12, ₹150 for senior citizens | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=The only interactive music museum in India with exhibits on traditional and contemporary Indian music. The museum also hosts a learning centre to learn music. }} * {{see | name=NIMHANS Brain Museum | alt= | url=http://www.nimhans.ac.in/neurobiology-research-centre-nrc/ | email= | address=Hosur Rd | lat=12.940639 | long=77.598778 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30314570 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A rather unusual museum with a collection of several different human brains. It has a diverse collection of over 600 brain samples and is the result of over 30 years of research. The museum seeks to help visitors understand how the brain works and get an insight into the kind of diseases that can affect it. }} ===Natural attractions=== [[File:Bangalore Lalbagh IMG 1612.JPG|thumbnail|Lalbagh Botanical Garden]] * {{see | name=[[Bannerghatta National Park]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.800833 | long=77.575556 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2588520 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A national park at the outskirts with a zoo, a pet corner, an animal rescue centre, a butterfly enclosure, an aquarium, a snake house and a safari park. }} * {{see | name=Bugle Rock | alt=Kahale Band | url= | email= | address=Basavanagudi | lat=12.94 | long=77.57 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4986214 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A massive rock of peninsular gneiss. Kempe Gowda II built a tower on the Bugle Rock to mark the southern limit of the city. }} * {{see | name=Dodda Alada Mara | alt=ದೊಡ್ಡ ಆಲದ ಮರ; Big Banyan Tree | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9094 | long=77.3956 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5287736 | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A giant 400-year-old Banyan tree about {{km|28}} from central Bangalore. This single plant covers 3 acres and is one of the largest of its kind. Buses can be taken from Majestic to Kengeri and then from Kengeri to Doda Alada Mara. There are direct buses from K. R. Market to Dodda Alada mara, which stops just beside the tree. The tree is the natural home of numerous monkeys, and you should be careful with food, water, camera bags, and anything else that can be snatched away. }} * {{see | name=Turahalli Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.881683 | long=77.524982 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19899050 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=The dry and deciduous forest is a hot spot for cyclists. Most trees are eucalyptus. The orchids bloom during August, giving a brilliant white colour to contrast with the green of the forest. The forest is famous for harbouring different species of birds. Turahalli is also a natural rock climbing spot. The granite rocks come in various sizes and shapes. Many climbers practice here regularly to prepare for local or international competitions. There's a small Shani temple atop a rocky hill. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Nandi Temple Bangalore 5-11-2008 12-08-41 PM.JPG|thumb|Nandi at the Bull Temple]] * {{see | name=Bull Temple | alt=Dodda Ganeshana Gudi | url= | email= | address=Bull Temple Rd, NR Colony, Basavanagudi | lat=12.941848 | long=77.567948 | directions='''Majestic''': 43A-E, 45A-E, '''Shivajinagar''': 34A-F, 37A-F, '''Jayanagar'''/'''Vijayanagar''': 60A-K (Ramakrishna Ashrama) | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1531614 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A typical Dravidian-style temple, famous for its mammoth bull statue that was carved from a single boulder. Legend has it that the temple was built to appease a marauding bull that stole local crops and that the offering was effective, with the bull subsequently leaving the area. Since then, local farmers have held an annual festival to express their gratitude. }} * {{see | name=Chandra Choodeswarar Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hosur | lat= | long= | directions={{km|20}} from central Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28402744 | lastedit=2023-06-05 | content=An ancient Shiva temple. The exact history of the temple is unknown. This is the only temple in Northern Tamil Nadu that has a golden chariot that is used for temple functions. }} * {{see | name=Dodda Ganapathi | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94289 | long=77.56823 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest temples in Bangalore, it is adjacent to the Bull Temple. The temple is famous for the huge monolith structure of Lord Ganesha, who was worshipped by the villagers to save them from the Bull that was damaging their crops in the area. The Bull Temple is a few metres away from this temple. }} * {{see | name=Gavi Gangadeshwara Cave Temple | url= | email= | address=Gavipuram, Kempegowda Nagar | lat=12.94829 | long=77.56322 | directions=right north of Hanumantha Nagar Park, north of Ramanjaneya Temple, in Gavipuram, adjacent to Basavanagudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-12:30PM and 5-8:30PM | price= | content=Built by Kempe Gowda, this temple with four remarkable monolithic pillars is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple also has a rare idol of fire-god "Agni". The annual festival is on ''Makara Sankranti'' and thousands of devotees flock to see the sun's rays fall on the ''Shivlinga''. }} * {{see | name=Jnanakshi Rajarajeshwari Temple | alt= | url=https://rajarajeshwari.in/home/home | email= | address=Rajarajeshwari Nagar | lat=12.926731 | long=77.510492 | directions=just before Kengeri on Mysore Road | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q127427594 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati (Raja Rajeshwari). It was built by a renowned spiritual guru, Sri Sri Sri Tiruchi Mahaswaigal. Built in the ancient style with stones, the temple is very spacious. One can feel the peace and satisfaction when visiting. Weekends are very crowded. }} * {{see | name=Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bannerghatta Rd | lat=12.87495 | long=77.59435 | directions=after Indian Institute of Management, south of Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Beautiful, spacious temple devoted to Sri Meenakshi Amma. Built in ancient style with stone structures, this place is a very cool and mind-refreshing place to see. You will feel the temple vibe of Tamil Nadu if you enter this temple complex in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=Mukti Naga Temple | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakavision.com/mukti-naga-temple.php | email= | address= | lat=12.91465 | long=77.42299 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Contains the world's largest monolithic statue of Lord Naaga, about 16 feet tall and weighing 36 tons. The Mukti Naga Temple, which is run by Shri Subrahmanya Seva Trust, is in a serene ambience of Ramohalli, a village on the outskirts of the city. }} * {{see | name=Nageshwara Temple | alt=Naganatheshwara Temple | url= | email= | address=Begur | lat=12.87674 | long=77.62671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6958784 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A temple complex built during the Western Ganga dynasty, with later-day additions by the Chola, Hoysala and Vijayanagara dynasties. It is known for bearing the oldest mention of the name "Bengaluru". The temple has a simple square sanctum, a vestibule that connects the sanctum to a great hall, which leads to an open hall. The open hall has six pillars, with an image of Nandi placed on a lotus platform in the outer bay. The sanctum has a lingam, the universal symbol of the god Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Ragi Gudda | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jayanagar 9th block | lat=12.91482 | long=77.59330 | directions=South of Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a famous Hanuman temple abode. The temple is on a mammoth rocky hill, and has very attractive chain of temples like Spathika Shiva, Ganesha and scenery within the premises. This is a very crowd attracting place during the period of Hanuman Jayanti in December. You get mahaprasadam meals on Saturday noon-1PM. }} * {{see | name=Shree Guruvayurappan Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kanakapura Rd, Nettigere | lat=12.76094 | long=77.48794 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A small and nice Kerala-style temple which gives a great vibe of peace and tranquillity. Only traditional attire is allowed to enter the sanctum (dhotis for men and sarees for women). }} * {{see | name=Vasantha Vallabharaya Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.89541 | long=77.55183 | directions=''' Majestic''' 210E, 210R '''Shivajinagar''' 210G , '''Market''': 210, 210D, 210E, '''Electronic City'''/'''Kengeri''' : 378) In South Bangalore, close to Sai Baba Temple, Eashwara Temple, Anjaneya Temple, off Vasantapura Road | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A small hillock with an ancient temple dedicated to Sri Vasantha Vallabharaya Swamy. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Ranga Shankara | alt= | url=http://www.rangashankara.org/ | email= | address=36/2, 8th Cross, J.P. Nagar, 2nd Phase | lat=12.911513 | long=77.587053 | directions= | phone=+91 80 26592777, +91 80 26494656 | tollfree= | hours=Evening shows start at 7:30PM | price=₹45–100 | wikidata=Q7292595 | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Many local groups perform here, although more often shows are presented by travelling groups touring India. The quality of the performances varies, but most plays are worth seeing, especially the ones by Indian playwrights or directors, as they can show you an Indian (or non-Western) perspective. Shows are in various languages, so it is a good idea to double-check whether the play is in English before buying or reserving (blocking) tickets. Audience members need to be present on time to be allowed entry to the theatre. It does not matter whether you are stuck in traffic or paid in advance, you simply will not be allowed inside after the specific time mentioned as the start time. }} * {{do | name=Ultimate Frisbee Club | alt= | url=http://www.learningtofly.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Although in a nascent stage, Ultimate Frisbee games are held on Tu Th Sa mornings starting 6:30AM. The teams comprise of players of all skill levels. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Kadlekai Parishe (Peanut fair) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94500 | long=77.56786 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Every year, sometime during the months of Nov-Dec, the area around Bull Temple Road in South Bangalore hosts a peanut fair. Centuries ago, the villages in and around this area used to cultivate peanuts and the custom was to dedicate the first crop to Nandi (the Bull at the temple). Although the villages of yore are today residential areas, the tradition continues as peanut farmers congregate to sell their crop. The 2 day traditional fair has many stalls that sell peanuts, trinkets, bangles, pottery, dolls etc. There are also a number of food stalls. }} ===Lakes=== [[File:Madiwala Lake West Side.jpg|thumb|Madiwala Lake]] * {{do | name=Madiwala Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.907778 | long=77.616667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30621418 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore and a grave example of water pollution. The water was fit for drinking till the early 1990s, when the industrial waste and sewage made it unsafe. Despite this, the lake sees a huge number of spot-billed pelicans migrating in the winter, especially in November and December. }} * {{do | name=Thippagondanahalli Reservoir | alt=TG Halli Reservoir | url= | email= | address={{km|35}} W of city centre | lat=12.973333 | long=77.3425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7784715 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=A reservoir at the confluence of the Arkavati and Kumudavati rivers. It is used by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) to supply water to the city. It is also a popular recreation spot in summer. Furthermore, it is said that a yogi used his supernatural powers to bring rain on the reservoir on 30 May 1985, when it had only 15 days of water supply. However, that rain is sometimes attributed to the regular south-western monsoon wind rather than any supernatural force. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=Sundaythespa | alt= | url=http://www.sundaythespa.com | email=info@sundaythespa.com | address=No.627/628, 5th Cross Road, 15th Main, 80 Feet Road, 4th Block, Koramangala Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-25520757 | tollfree=+91 80-25520758 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-17 | content=Incorporates Ayurvedic, Indian and East Asian practices, offers professional services by well-trained staff. }} ==Work== * {{listing | name=Electronic City | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.85 | long=77.67 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q298273 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=A major information technology (IT) cluster of the city, with offices of IT giants like TCS (Tata Consultancy Services), Infosys, Wipro, HCL (Hindustan Computers Limited) and Tech Mahindra. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Bannerghatta Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.91112 | long=77.60010 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=Grasshopper is a space that exhibits clothing designs from the most experimental designers in India and also showcases other ideas - lighting design, products, theatre, music - an open space for expression! If that's too boring, you can keep driving and you have a thousand ways that you can take to enjoy the wildlife and the myriad reservoirs strewn across the area - you can still find your very own private haven. }} * {{buy | name=Gandhi Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94594 | long=77.57058 | directions=in the heart of Basavangudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest shopping areas in Bangalore, Gandhi Bazaar stretches for a short kilometer or so, bordered on both sides by shops selling everything from saris and clothes to plastics and kitchen utensils, fronted by vegetable and fruit stalls. }} * {{buy | name=Jayanagar Shopping Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.92950 | long=77.58451 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2020-07-29| content=From antique jewellery stores, the authentic gold jewelry stores, saree stores, sweet meat stores, classic Iyengar bakeries, dress stores, and food stores that sell fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, and butter. Most of the products are comparatively cheap and are often value for money. }} * {{buy | name=Oasis Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Intermediate Ring Rd, Koramangala | lat=12.93749 | long=77.62804 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A two-story store on Victoria Road in the heart of the new mall shopping district. This was one of the most coveted stores until the malls came along. It's an easy place to go shopping when you don't want too many options to confuse you or when you're tired and don't want to visit too many shops - you can get everything under one roof here. Good for clothes, cosmetics, watches, jewellery, shoes etc. You also get stylish furniture and other home and living items for a decent price. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Royal Arts & Crafts | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2248 4797 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=21 K.H. Rd. Has a particularly wide selection of silk carpets and papier-mâché products. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Nexus Mall Koramangala | alt= | url=https://www.nexusmalls.com/nexus-koramangala | email=helpdesk.koramangalamall@nexusmalls.com | address=Hosru Rd | lat=12.934444 | long=77.611111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7734919 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=One of the well-known malls in Bangalore in an upscale suburb. Stores range from high international brands to traditional Indian Khadi clothing at the Khadder. The top floor of the mall contains an 11-screen cinema. For eating there is fast food and world cuisines including: Chinese, Vietnamese, Mexican and Italian and Indian. The PVR Cinema hall is here too. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Anjappar Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=#50, 100 Ft. Road, 4th Block Kormangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chettinad cuisine }} * {{eat | name=Friends Fast Food | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jyoti Nivas College Rd, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=300 m from Nexus mall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great Conti food at college prices. Casa Picola fans will like this one. }} * {{eat | name=Hyderabadi biriyani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Banerghatta Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near IIM -B, beside HSBC Bank and above Fabmall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves good biriyani }} * {{eat | name=Kairali | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Kamat Lokaruchi | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mysore Rd | lat= | long= | directions=just before Channapatna | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Amazing food and ambience. Authentic Mangalorean meals. }} * {{eat | name=Kebab Ki | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=for "Adana Kebab" and other Turkish dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Kollapuri's | url= | email= | address=429/31 30th Cross, 4th Block Jaya Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Near Jain Mandir | phone=+91 80 4121 1693, +91 80 2653 5207 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An authentic Maharashtrian hotel run by Savaji. It serves bhakri, chapati and "Sheckle Edme" special Savaji stuffed roti with spicy sabjis and meat or other non-veg items }} * {{eat | name=Konkan | alt= | url= | email= | address=6th cross, 6th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2552 1530 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean and Goan style cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Little Home | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 ft. Road, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Wipro K2 office | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very good south and central Kerala food. Bad service though. }} * {{eat | name=The Paramount Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Jyothi Nivas College | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=P!ing | alt= | url= | email= | address=No. 130, 1st Cross, 5th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Includes a dessert bay. Dim sum, sensible portions, good prices. }} * {{eat | name=Ponnuswamy | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near the National Games Village, opposite to Legends of Rock | phone=+91 80 4151 1919 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic south Tamil Nadu food. Try the biryani and sukka fry. No alcohol or smoking. Also at Residency Rd., next to Imperial Hotel. }} * {{eat | name=Rajvardhan Foods | url= | email= | address=1291 25th Main Road, 9th Block Jaya Nagar East | lat= | long= | directions=Near Big Bazaar | phone=+91 98 8630 3088, +91 98 8630 3089 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for its vadapav, sabudana vada, khichdi. It also offers bhakri, thalipeeth. The snacks and other food offered here is comparatively expensive. This is because it is Bangalore's only authentic Maharashtrian food outlet. It also serves food fresh, only prepared after placing the order, so the wait and price is compensated. The food quality is excellent. }} * {{eat | name=Tharavadu | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bommanahalli, Hosur Rd | lat= | long= | directions=After Silk Board | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Vayal | alt= | url= | email= | address=Outer ring road (around Central mall) | lat= | long= | directions=After Silk Board | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Vidyarthi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=32 Gandhi Bazaar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2667 7588 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another very old and traditional breakfast place, exclusively known for its Masala Dosa. Similar to MTR, you can find people who have been having breakfast here since times immemorial. }} * {{eat | name=Yogi's | alt= | url= | email= | address=#86, 21st Main, Banashankari 2nd Stage | lat= | long= | directions=near BDA Complex | phone=+91 98 4584 9025, +91 98 4539 7363 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The "Sakkat Burger" and "Sakkat Mexican" are a must have. Wide range of burgers, sandwiches, ice creams, shakes and sundaes available. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Foodline| url= | email= | address=502, 40th Cross, 8th block| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Nalapaka | url= | email= | address=(''across from HSBC Complex''), Bannerghatta, Arikere| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Park | url= | email= | address=585, 10th Main, 42nd cross, 5th Block Jayanagar| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} *'''Anand Bhavan''', Koramangala. This is a mostly breakfast and sweet place. It has many native foods such as Dosa, Idli, Vada, and Chutney. It has a wide range of Indian sweets such as Jalebis, and Rasgullas. * {{eat | name=Brahmin's Coffee Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=off ShankarMutt in Shankarapuram, Basavanagudi | phone=+91 87226 64284 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Famous for idly, vada and its delicious chutney. You also get khaarabath. Don't expect sambar for the vada here. }} * {{eat | name=Janani, J.P. Nagar | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place to have breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can have idli and sambar for ₹10 and a cup of tea for ₹8, a north Indian roti curry for ₹32. If you want to have good Punjabi food, go upstairs and get a good meals under ₹150. }} * {{eat | name=The Rameshwaram Cafe@JP Nagar | alt= | url= | email= | address=52, Outer Ring Road | lat=12.90643 | long=77.59059 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Shettara Beedi | alt=food street | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The entire street adjoining the famous VB Bakery at V V Puram is Bangalore's miniature version of Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor foodstalls. A haven for anyone who enjoys hawker fare, one can stall-hop and have a variety of snacks that'll satisfy even the most ravenous hunger and spend less than ₹100 in total. Some of the must-try dishes are dum-root and butter-bun congress at VB Bakery. The dosas, ''obbattu (sweet pancake)'', ''akkirotti (rice pancake)'', fried ''bondas'', butter-gulkand, and masala-pepsi available at the various stalls are also delicious. The street comes alive only in the evenings (after 6PM) and that only vegetarian fare is available here. }} * {{eat | name=Udupi Garden | url= | email= | address=16th Main BTM Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Simple Udupi restaurant. Serves very good south Indian dishes at nominal prices. Also serves north Indian food. }} * {{eat | name=Upahara Darshini | url= | email= | address=DVG Rd, Basavanagudi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another of Bangalore's new found Darshinis dishing out top notch masala dosa and Vada Sambhar. }} * {{eat | name=Vidhyarthi Bhavan | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=off Gandhi Bazar in Basavanagudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A gastronomic haven offering some of the best masala dosa in the world. This quaint little place is so famous that it has not even bothered to change its age-old sign board, and who needs it anyway, the aroma wafting through the air is a good enough indication that you are in the vicinity of the place. Get there early for a breakfast, there's always a bee-line for places to sit. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=The Egg Factory | alt= | url= | email= | address=St.Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4211 0041 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Multi-cuisine, The menu, as the name suggests, is all based on the indispensable ''egg''. Its also modelled on a factory with functional chairs and a menu that looks like an instruction manual. Its open for all day dining. Egg dishes from all over the world, including omelttes, scrambles, French toast, curries, sub's, pasta & desserts. Don't miss the fantastic huevos rancheros here, they make it as good as in Mexico. Innovative drinks, try the ''Chlorophyll Fix'', it looks and sounds weird, but tastes like heaven. Highly relaxed service. }} * {{eat | name=Grill Maximus | url= | email= | address=17th cross 4 main HSR Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Famous for the Mediterranean cuisine.Also serve Arabian Indian and Italian Food. Only A la carte menu is available. ₹200-500 }} * {{eat | name=Sahib Sindh Sultan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Level 2, Nexus Mall, Hosur Rd, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2206 7878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Train-themed restaurant with a delicious, upscale menu. It is supposed to showcase NWFP. Their kakori kebabs are excellent. It also serves wine with the food. Expect a long wait. Or book ahead and roam around the mall or grab a few drinks from the adjoining '''Firangi Paani'''. ₹150-500 }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=La Classic Hotel Extraordinaire | alt= | url=http://www.laclassic.in/ | email= | address=Plot# 158, Yadavanahalli, Hosur Main road, Attibele | lat= | long= | directions=Opp. Applicomp (India) Ltd. | phone=+91 80 3910 1000, +91 80 3910 1111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-06-19| content=The only fine dining multi-cuisine restaurant outside Electronic City and on the way to Hosur caters to buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner apart from a selection from an international menu. }} *{{eat | name=Grasshopper | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 Kalena Agrahara, Bannerghata Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2659-3999, +91 98 4545-2646 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Freshly prepared seven course meal served on the table. Reservation required. Closed on Mondays. }} ===East Indian cuisine=== * {{eat | name=36 Chowringhee Lane | alt= | url= | email= | address=100ft Rd, BTM Layout | lat= | long= | directions=opp Reliance Fresh | phone=+91 80 4124 0979 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Bengali cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Bangaliana | alt= | url= | email= | address=355, 1st 'B' Main, 7th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=opp. HDFC Bank | phone=+91 80 2571 1058 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Bengali Delicacies (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) Restaurant, Take-away, Catering. Specialities: fish, mutton chicken and, of course, sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Bhojohori Manna | alt= | url= | email= | address=668/B 6th Block, Koramangala Club Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2550 3666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Free home delivery }} * {{eat | name=Dalama | url= | email= | address=#37, 6th block, Koramangala, 100 ft Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Kamat Hotel, Koramangala | phone=+91 80 4166 0921 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Odia cuisine including vegetable curries, chapati, meat, fish, prawn, crab and chicken delicacies. }} * {{eat | name=The Esplanade | alt= | url= | email= | address=KHB Colony | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4092 7878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers authentic Bengali cuisine. They also have a continental menu. }} ===European cuisine=== * {{eat | name=Cafe Y | alt= | url= | email= | address=Langford Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Prestige Elgin, Hosur Rd-Langford Rd junction | phone=+91 80 5114 4561 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Amazing sizzlers and steaks, nice ambiance. }} * {{eat | name=Via Milano | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Sony World | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Italian food. 3 course meal for 2 will cost an average of ₹2,000, (wine not included). }} ===North Indian cuisine=== * {{eat | name=Bay Leaf | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raheja Arcade, opposite Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A really nice place with reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Grameen | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raheja Arcade, opposite Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the best places to have good vegetarian North Indian food. }} * {{eat | name=Rasilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=JP Nagar 7 Phase, Shreyas Colony | lat= | long= | directions=close to Brigade Millennium & Elita Promenade Apartments, near RBI layout | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice place with very fine cuisine. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Caffe Pascucci | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Cafe-Pascucci-Bangalore-57902917850/ | email= | address=690/A, 15 Cross Road, 14th Main Road, Phase II, J P Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 2134 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Italian coffee chain brand. In 2010, Pascucci set up its own coffee retail shop in India with 10 outlets in Bangalore at prominent localities like Jayanagar, JP Nagar, MG Road, Malleshwaram and Indiranagar. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=J'Cubez | alt= | url= | email= | address=Banashankari 2nd Stage, opp. BDA complex | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For rock lovers }} * {{drink | name=Jimi's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Road, Koramangala 80ft. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A nice dark cozy bar along with Rock music and video. Best visited during weekends and is not hard on your pocket. }} * {{drink | name=Legends of Rock | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 Foot Rd, 6th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4130 3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Watch the Legends perform on large format TVs. }} * {{drink | name=Olio | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4092 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great ambiance with beer, wines and continental food. }} * {{drink | name=Purple Haze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Road, Koramangala (close to Jyothi Niwas College) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular for the classic rock that's played there. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=Barleyz - The Brew House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Above Taco Bell, Sony World signal, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Microbrewery }} * {{drink | name=Fuga | alt= | url= | email= | address=Richmond Town | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The best place for house music lovers. Expensive and fashionable. }} * {{drink | name=Firangi Paani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Art of Living Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.artofliving.org/in-en/bangalore | email=housing@vvmvp.org | address=Kanakapura Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026080204 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹400 | lastedit=2017-04-21 | content=Free food is given three times a day. Accommodation is shared between four people. The campus is undulating in terrain, and a free shuttle service is available between the numerous hostels and meditation centres. Very green campus with winding footpaths. Beware of snakes. (This hostel is two hours away from Bangalore city railway station in peak traffic.). }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Grand Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Cottonpet | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22374786 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹900 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Naveen | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cottonpet Main Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 222 55609 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹550 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Kamat Hotel | alt= | url= | email=kamathotellalbaghwestgate@gmail.com | address=227, Lalbagh West Gate R.V.Road, VV.Puram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-483 47 571, +91 80 2242 1839 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,400 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Manjunatha Paradise Delux Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=First Main, Cottonpet | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-22386909, +91 80223 86910 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹700 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Shree Vaishnav Gujarati Samaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gandhinagar | lat= | long= | directions=near Sapna cinema, Kempe Gowda Circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Costs ₹50 | content=A secure and decent place to stay if you are there for a day or two. A nice canteen with Gujarati food available. In the vicinity there is another good place available for fast food/lunch named "SLV". }} * {{sleep | name=Sri Gajanana Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cottonpete Main Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 89044 61010 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=The Bouvice | alt= | url=http://www.bouvice.com | email=info@bouvice.com | address=141C, S.T. Bed Layout, 1st Main Kormangala, Sector 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4152 4429, +91 93 4285 6034 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A beautiful apartment hotel in Kormangala. }} * {{sleep | name=Maple Suites | alt= | url=http://www.maplesuites.in | email= | address=#142 & 143, Dollar Layout. 4th Main, BTM II Stage | lat= | long= | directions=off Bannerghatta Road opp to Mantri Elite. | phone=+91 80 4282 2428 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=₹1,999 | content=Long and short-term stay. }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} eix2q4qtk6z3yg0m7mnmn5jgn0elixk 5091213 5091205 2025-07-11T06:09:44Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* See */ 5091213 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=South Bangalore}} '''South Bangalore''' is the southern part of the city. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.88|77.579|width=500|height=500|zoom=12|name=Map of South Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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==See== ===Ashrams=== [[File:The art of living international center.jpg|thumbnail|The Art of Living]] * {{see | name=The Art of Living | alt= | url=http://www.artofliving.org/bangalore-ashram | email=info@vvmvp.org | address=Kanakapura Rd, Udayapura | lat=12.825845 | long=77.508759 | directions=near Cricket Coaching ground | phone=+91 9448386061, +91 80 67262626, +91 80 6726262627, +91 80 6726262628 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1666330 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content=The international headquarters of the Art of Living Foundation. The ashram is spread over 65 acres and was established in 1986. They conduct frequent yoga and Ayurveda programmes. The campus is also the focal point of many service projects, such as rural development and education, organic farming initiatives, and research into the benefits of ‘Sudarshan Kriya’. While at the ashram, one cannot miss the Satsangs that are held every evening. Satsangs are gatherings where scattered minds unite through music, meditation, and wisdom to experience a higher state of consciousness. People from all over the world who know different languages participate in the singing of bhajans, or the repetitive chanting of a word or a verse. }} * {{see | name=Ramakrishna Math | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94877 | long=77.56676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=There are many Ramakrishna ashrams in Bangalore, but the special and central one is in Gandhi Bazaar, an area with many temples. This mutt contains a vast meditating hall, a beautiful park, a Vedic school and many more facilities. Sarada Devi had meditated on a location in the park in this boundary. This location is preserved as a monument. A stone on which Swami Vivekananda sat when he visited Bangalore is also kept as a monument. This is a calm and peaceful place to meditate. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Indian Music Experience Museum | alt= | url=https://www.indianmusicexperience.org/ | email=info@indianmusicexperience.org | address=Brigade Millenium Ave, 7th Phase, JP Nagar | lat=12.89177 | long=77.58372 | directions=opposite Wood Rose Club | phone=+91 96866 02366 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM (closed M) | price=₹250 for persons over 12, ₹150 for senior citizens | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=The only interactive music museum in India with exhibits on traditional and contemporary Indian music. The museum also hosts a learning centre to learn music. }} * {{see | name=NIMHANS Brain Museum | alt= | url=http://www.nimhans.ac.in/neurobiology-research-centre-nrc/ | email= | address=Hosur Rd | lat=12.940639 | long=77.598778 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30314570 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A rather unusual museum with a collection of several different human brains. It has a diverse collection of over 600 brain samples and is the result of over 30 years of research. The museum seeks to help visitors understand how the brain works and get an insight into the kind of diseases that can affect it. }} ===Natural attractions=== [[File:Bangalore Lalbagh IMG 1612.JPG|thumbnail|Lalbagh Botanical Garden]] * {{see | name=[[Bannerghatta National Park]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.800833 | long=77.575556 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2588520 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A national park at the outskirts with a zoo, a pet corner, an animal rescue centre, a butterfly enclosure, an aquarium, a snake house and a safari park. }} * {{see | name=Bugle Rock | alt=Kahale Band | url= | email= | address=Basavanagudi | lat=12.94 | long=77.57 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4986214 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A massive rock of peninsular gneiss. Kempe Gowda II built a tower on the Bugle Rock to mark the southern limit of the city. }} * {{see | name=Dodda Alada Mara | alt=ದೊಡ್ಡ ಆಲದ ಮರ; Big Banyan Tree | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9094 | long=77.3956 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5287736 | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A giant 400-year-old Banyan tree about {{km|28}} from central Bangalore. This single plant covers 3 acres and is one of the largest of its kind. Buses can be taken from Majestic to Kengeri and then from Kengeri to Doda Alada Mara. There are direct buses from K. R. Market to Dodda Alada Mara, which stop just beside the tree. The tree is the natural home of numerous monkeys, and you should be careful with food, water, camera bags, and anything else that can be snatched away. }} * {{see | name=Muthyala Maduvu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Known for its waterfall and the mountain ranges it overlooks. It has a rich concentration of birds owing to the presence of the waterfall. Trekking enthusiasts also visited the mountain ranges, and trekking is a major adventure sport. }} * {{see | name=Turahalli Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.881683 | long=77.524982 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19899050 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=The dry and deciduous forest is a hot spot for cyclists. Most trees are eucalyptus. The orchids bloom during August, giving a brilliant white colour to contrast with the green of the forest. The forest is famous for harbouring different species of birds. Turahalli is also a natural rock climbing spot. The granite rocks come in various sizes and shapes. Many climbers practice here regularly to prepare for local or international competitions. There's a small Shani temple atop a rocky hill. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Nandi Temple Bangalore 5-11-2008 12-08-41 PM.JPG|thumb|Nandi at the Bull Temple]] * {{see | name=Bull Temple | alt=Dodda Ganeshana Gudi | url= | email= | address=Bull Temple Rd, NR Colony, Basavanagudi | lat=12.941848 | long=77.567948 | directions='''Majestic''': 43A-E, 45A-E, '''Shivajinagar''': 34A-F, 37A-F, '''Jayanagar'''/'''Vijayanagar''': 60A-K (Ramakrishna Ashrama) | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1531614 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A typical Dravidian-style temple, famous for its mammoth bull statue that was carved from a single boulder. Legend has it that the temple was built to appease a marauding bull that stole local crops and that the offering was effective, with the bull subsequently leaving the area. Since then, local farmers have held an annual festival to express their gratitude. }} * {{see | name=Chandra Choodeswarar Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hosur | lat= | long= | directions={{km|20}} from central Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28402744 | lastedit=2023-06-05 | content=An ancient Shiva temple. The exact history of the temple is unknown. This is the only temple in Northern Tamil Nadu that has a golden chariot that is used for temple functions. }} * {{see | name=Dodda Ganapathi | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94289 | long=77.56823 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest temples in Bangalore, it is adjacent to the Bull Temple. The temple is famous for the huge monolith structure of Lord Ganesha, who was worshipped by the villagers to save them from the Bull that was damaging their crops in the area. The Bull Temple is a few metres away from this temple. }} * {{see | name=Gavi Gangadeshwara Cave Temple | url= | email= | address=Gavipuram, Kempegowda Nagar | lat=12.94829 | long=77.56322 | directions=right north of Hanumantha Nagar Park, north of Ramanjaneya Temple, in Gavipuram, adjacent to Basavanagudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-12:30PM and 5-8:30PM | price= | content=Built by Kempe Gowda, this temple with four remarkable monolithic pillars is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple also has a rare idol of fire-god "Agni". The annual festival is on ''Makara Sankranti'' and thousands of devotees flock to see the sun's rays fall on the ''Shivlinga''. }} * {{see | name=Jnanakshi Rajarajeshwari Temple | alt= | url=https://rajarajeshwari.in/home/home | email= | address=Rajarajeshwari Nagar | lat=12.926731 | long=77.510492 | directions=just before Kengeri on Mysore Road | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q127427594 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati (Raja Rajeshwari). It was built by a renowned spiritual guru, Sri Sri Sri Tiruchi Mahaswaigal. Built in the ancient style with stones, the temple is very spacious. One can feel the peace and satisfaction when visiting. Weekends are very crowded. }} * {{see | name=Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bannerghatta Rd | lat=12.87495 | long=77.59435 | directions=after Indian Institute of Management, south of Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Beautiful, spacious temple devoted to Sri Meenakshi Amma. Built in ancient style with stone structures, this place is a very cool and mind-refreshing place to see. You will feel the temple vibe of Tamil Nadu if you enter this temple complex in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=Mukti Naga Temple | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakavision.com/mukti-naga-temple.php | email= | address= | lat=12.91465 | long=77.42299 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Contains the world's largest monolithic statue of Lord Naaga, about 16 feet tall and weighing 36 tons. The Mukti Naga Temple, which is run by Shri Subrahmanya Seva Trust, is in a serene ambience of Ramohalli, a village on the outskirts of the city. }} * {{see | name=Nageshwara Temple | alt=Naganatheshwara Temple | url= | email= | address=Begur | lat=12.87674 | long=77.62671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6958784 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A temple complex built during the Western Ganga dynasty, with later-day additions by the Chola, Hoysala and Vijayanagara dynasties. It is known for bearing the oldest mention of the name "Bengaluru". The temple has a simple square sanctum, a vestibule that connects the sanctum to a great hall, which leads to an open hall. The open hall has six pillars, with an image of Nandi placed on a lotus platform in the outer bay. The sanctum has a lingam, the universal symbol of the god Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Ragi Gudda | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jayanagar 9th block | lat=12.91482 | long=77.59330 | directions=South of Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a famous Hanuman temple abode. The temple is on a mammoth rocky hill, and has very attractive chain of temples like Spathika Shiva, Ganesha and scenery within the premises. This is a very crowd attracting place during the period of Hanuman Jayanti in December. You get mahaprasadam meals on Saturday noon-1PM. }} * {{see | name=Shree Guruvayurappan Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kanakapura Rd, Nettigere | lat=12.76094 | long=77.48794 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A small and nice Kerala-style temple which gives a great vibe of peace and tranquillity. Only traditional attire is allowed to enter the sanctum (dhotis for men and sarees for women). }} * {{see | name=Vasantha Vallabharaya Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.89541 | long=77.55183 | directions=''' Majestic''' 210E, 210R '''Shivajinagar''' 210G , '''Market''': 210, 210D, 210E, '''Electronic City'''/'''Kengeri''' : 378) In South Bangalore, close to Sai Baba Temple, Eashwara Temple, Anjaneya Temple, off Vasantapura Road | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A small hillock with an ancient temple dedicated to Sri Vasantha Vallabharaya Swamy. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Ranga Shankara | alt= | url=http://www.rangashankara.org/ | email= | address=36/2, 8th Cross, J.P. Nagar, 2nd Phase | lat=12.911513 | long=77.587053 | directions= | phone=+91 80 26592777, +91 80 26494656 | tollfree= | hours=Evening shows start at 7:30PM | price=₹45–100 | wikidata=Q7292595 | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Many local groups perform here, although more often shows are presented by travelling groups touring India. The quality of the performances varies, but most plays are worth seeing, especially the ones by Indian playwrights or directors, as they can show you an Indian (or non-Western) perspective. Shows are in various languages, so it is a good idea to double-check whether the play is in English before buying or reserving (blocking) tickets. Audience members need to be present on time to be allowed entry to the theatre. It does not matter whether you are stuck in traffic or paid in advance, you simply will not be allowed inside after the specific time mentioned as the start time. }} * {{do | name=Ultimate Frisbee Club | alt= | url=http://www.learningtofly.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Although in a nascent stage, Ultimate Frisbee games are held on Tu Th Sa mornings starting 6:30AM. The teams comprise of players of all skill levels. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Kadlekai Parishe (Peanut fair) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94500 | long=77.56786 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Every year, sometime during the months of Nov-Dec, the area around Bull Temple Road in South Bangalore hosts a peanut fair. Centuries ago, the villages in and around this area used to cultivate peanuts and the custom was to dedicate the first crop to Nandi (the Bull at the temple). Although the villages of yore are today residential areas, the tradition continues as peanut farmers congregate to sell their crop. The 2 day traditional fair has many stalls that sell peanuts, trinkets, bangles, pottery, dolls etc. There are also a number of food stalls. }} ===Lakes=== [[File:Madiwala Lake West Side.jpg|thumb|Madiwala Lake]] * {{do | name=Madiwala Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.907778 | long=77.616667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30621418 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore and a grave example of water pollution. The water was fit for drinking till the early 1990s, when the industrial waste and sewage made it unsafe. Despite this, the lake sees a huge number of spot-billed pelicans migrating in the winter, especially in November and December. }} * {{do | name=Thippagondanahalli Reservoir | alt=TG Halli Reservoir | url= | email= | address={{km|35}} W of city centre | lat=12.973333 | long=77.3425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7784715 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=A reservoir at the confluence of the Arkavati and Kumudavati rivers. It is used by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) to supply water to the city. It is also a popular recreation spot in summer. Furthermore, it is said that a yogi used his supernatural powers to bring rain on the reservoir on 30 May 1985, when it had only 15 days of water supply. However, that rain is sometimes attributed to the regular south-western monsoon wind rather than any supernatural force. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=Sundaythespa | alt= | url=http://www.sundaythespa.com | email=info@sundaythespa.com | address=No.627/628, 5th Cross Road, 15th Main, 80 Feet Road, 4th Block, Koramangala Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-25520757 | tollfree=+91 80-25520758 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-17 | content=Incorporates Ayurvedic, Indian and East Asian practices, offers professional services by well-trained staff. }} ==Work== * {{listing | name=Electronic City | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.85 | long=77.67 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q298273 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=A major information technology (IT) cluster of the city, with offices of IT giants like TCS (Tata Consultancy Services), Infosys, Wipro, HCL (Hindustan Computers Limited) and Tech Mahindra. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Bannerghatta Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.91112 | long=77.60010 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=Grasshopper is a space that exhibits clothing designs from the most experimental designers in India and also showcases other ideas - lighting design, products, theatre, music - an open space for expression! If that's too boring, you can keep driving and you have a thousand ways that you can take to enjoy the wildlife and the myriad reservoirs strewn across the area - you can still find your very own private haven. }} * {{buy | name=Gandhi Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94594 | long=77.57058 | directions=in the heart of Basavangudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest shopping areas in Bangalore, Gandhi Bazaar stretches for a short kilometer or so, bordered on both sides by shops selling everything from saris and clothes to plastics and kitchen utensils, fronted by vegetable and fruit stalls. }} * {{buy | name=Jayanagar Shopping Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.92950 | long=77.58451 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2020-07-29| content=From antique jewellery stores, the authentic gold jewelry stores, saree stores, sweet meat stores, classic Iyengar bakeries, dress stores, and food stores that sell fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, and butter. Most of the products are comparatively cheap and are often value for money. }} * {{buy | name=Oasis Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Intermediate Ring Rd, Koramangala | lat=12.93749 | long=77.62804 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A two-story store on Victoria Road in the heart of the new mall shopping district. This was one of the most coveted stores until the malls came along. It's an easy place to go shopping when you don't want too many options to confuse you or when you're tired and don't want to visit too many shops - you can get everything under one roof here. Good for clothes, cosmetics, watches, jewellery, shoes etc. You also get stylish furniture and other home and living items for a decent price. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Royal Arts & Crafts | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2248 4797 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=21 K.H. Rd. Has a particularly wide selection of silk carpets and papier-mâché products. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Nexus Mall Koramangala | alt= | url=https://www.nexusmalls.com/nexus-koramangala | email=helpdesk.koramangalamall@nexusmalls.com | address=Hosru Rd | lat=12.934444 | long=77.611111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7734919 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=One of the well-known malls in Bangalore in an upscale suburb. Stores range from high international brands to traditional Indian Khadi clothing at the Khadder. The top floor of the mall contains an 11-screen cinema. For eating there is fast food and world cuisines including: Chinese, Vietnamese, Mexican and Italian and Indian. The PVR Cinema hall is here too. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Anjappar Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=#50, 100 Ft. Road, 4th Block Kormangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chettinad cuisine }} * {{eat | name=Friends Fast Food | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jyoti Nivas College Rd, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=300 m from Nexus mall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great Conti food at college prices. Casa Picola fans will like this one. }} * {{eat | name=Hyderabadi biriyani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Banerghatta Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near IIM -B, beside HSBC Bank and above Fabmall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves good biriyani }} * {{eat | name=Kairali | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Kamat Lokaruchi | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mysore Rd | lat= | long= | directions=just before Channapatna | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Amazing food and ambience. Authentic Mangalorean meals. }} * {{eat | name=Kebab Ki | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=for "Adana Kebab" and other Turkish dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Kollapuri's | url= | email= | address=429/31 30th Cross, 4th Block Jaya Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Near Jain Mandir | phone=+91 80 4121 1693, +91 80 2653 5207 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An authentic Maharashtrian hotel run by Savaji. It serves bhakri, chapati and "Sheckle Edme" special Savaji stuffed roti with spicy sabjis and meat or other non-veg items }} * {{eat | name=Konkan | alt= | url= | email= | address=6th cross, 6th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2552 1530 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean and Goan style cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Little Home | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 ft. Road, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Wipro K2 office | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very good south and central Kerala food. Bad service though. }} * {{eat | name=The Paramount Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Jyothi Nivas College | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=P!ing | alt= | url= | email= | address=No. 130, 1st Cross, 5th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Includes a dessert bay. Dim sum, sensible portions, good prices. }} * {{eat | name=Ponnuswamy | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near the National Games Village, opposite to Legends of Rock | phone=+91 80 4151 1919 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic south Tamil Nadu food. Try the biryani and sukka fry. No alcohol or smoking. Also at Residency Rd., next to Imperial Hotel. }} * {{eat | name=Rajvardhan Foods | url= | email= | address=1291 25th Main Road, 9th Block Jaya Nagar East | lat= | long= | directions=Near Big Bazaar | phone=+91 98 8630 3088, +91 98 8630 3089 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for its vadapav, sabudana vada, khichdi. It also offers bhakri, thalipeeth. The snacks and other food offered here is comparatively expensive. This is because it is Bangalore's only authentic Maharashtrian food outlet. It also serves food fresh, only prepared after placing the order, so the wait and price is compensated. The food quality is excellent. }} * {{eat | name=Tharavadu | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bommanahalli, Hosur Rd | lat= | long= | directions=After Silk Board | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Vayal | alt= | url= | email= | address=Outer ring road (around Central mall) | lat= | long= | directions=After Silk Board | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Vidyarthi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=32 Gandhi Bazaar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2667 7588 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another very old and traditional breakfast place, exclusively known for its Masala Dosa. Similar to MTR, you can find people who have been having breakfast here since times immemorial. }} * {{eat | name=Yogi's | alt= | url= | email= | address=#86, 21st Main, Banashankari 2nd Stage | lat= | long= | directions=near BDA Complex | phone=+91 98 4584 9025, +91 98 4539 7363 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The "Sakkat Burger" and "Sakkat Mexican" are a must have. Wide range of burgers, sandwiches, ice creams, shakes and sundaes available. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Foodline| url= | email= | address=502, 40th Cross, 8th block| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Nalapaka | url= | email= | address=(''across from HSBC Complex''), Bannerghatta, Arikere| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Park | url= | email= | address=585, 10th Main, 42nd cross, 5th Block Jayanagar| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} *'''Anand Bhavan''', Koramangala. This is a mostly breakfast and sweet place. It has many native foods such as Dosa, Idli, Vada, and Chutney. It has a wide range of Indian sweets such as Jalebis, and Rasgullas. * {{eat | name=Brahmin's Coffee Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=off ShankarMutt in Shankarapuram, Basavanagudi | phone=+91 87226 64284 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Famous for idly, vada and its delicious chutney. You also get khaarabath. Don't expect sambar for the vada here. }} * {{eat | name=Janani, J.P. Nagar | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place to have breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can have idli and sambar for ₹10 and a cup of tea for ₹8, a north Indian roti curry for ₹32. If you want to have good Punjabi food, go upstairs and get a good meals under ₹150. }} * {{eat | name=The Rameshwaram Cafe@JP Nagar | alt= | url= | email= | address=52, Outer Ring Road | lat=12.90643 | long=77.59059 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Shettara Beedi | alt=food street | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The entire street adjoining the famous VB Bakery at V V Puram is Bangalore's miniature version of Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor foodstalls. A haven for anyone who enjoys hawker fare, one can stall-hop and have a variety of snacks that'll satisfy even the most ravenous hunger and spend less than ₹100 in total. Some of the must-try dishes are dum-root and butter-bun congress at VB Bakery. The dosas, ''obbattu (sweet pancake)'', ''akkirotti (rice pancake)'', fried ''bondas'', butter-gulkand, and masala-pepsi available at the various stalls are also delicious. The street comes alive only in the evenings (after 6PM) and that only vegetarian fare is available here. }} * {{eat | name=Udupi Garden | url= | email= | address=16th Main BTM Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Simple Udupi restaurant. Serves very good south Indian dishes at nominal prices. Also serves north Indian food. }} * {{eat | name=Upahara Darshini | url= | email= | address=DVG Rd, Basavanagudi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another of Bangalore's new found Darshinis dishing out top notch masala dosa and Vada Sambhar. }} * {{eat | name=Vidhyarthi Bhavan | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=off Gandhi Bazar in Basavanagudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A gastronomic haven offering some of the best masala dosa in the world. This quaint little place is so famous that it has not even bothered to change its age-old sign board, and who needs it anyway, the aroma wafting through the air is a good enough indication that you are in the vicinity of the place. Get there early for a breakfast, there's always a bee-line for places to sit. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=The Egg Factory | alt= | url= | email= | address=St.Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4211 0041 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Multi-cuisine, The menu, as the name suggests, is all based on the indispensable ''egg''. Its also modelled on a factory with functional chairs and a menu that looks like an instruction manual. Its open for all day dining. Egg dishes from all over the world, including omelttes, scrambles, French toast, curries, sub's, pasta & desserts. Don't miss the fantastic huevos rancheros here, they make it as good as in Mexico. Innovative drinks, try the ''Chlorophyll Fix'', it looks and sounds weird, but tastes like heaven. Highly relaxed service. }} * {{eat | name=Grill Maximus | url= | email= | address=17th cross 4 main HSR Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Famous for the Mediterranean cuisine.Also serve Arabian Indian and Italian Food. Only A la carte menu is available. ₹200-500 }} * {{eat | name=Sahib Sindh Sultan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Level 2, Nexus Mall, Hosur Rd, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2206 7878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Train-themed restaurant with a delicious, upscale menu. It is supposed to showcase NWFP. Their kakori kebabs are excellent. It also serves wine with the food. Expect a long wait. Or book ahead and roam around the mall or grab a few drinks from the adjoining '''Firangi Paani'''. ₹150-500 }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=La Classic Hotel Extraordinaire | alt= | url=http://www.laclassic.in/ | email= | address=Plot# 158, Yadavanahalli, Hosur Main road, Attibele | lat= | long= | directions=Opp. Applicomp (India) Ltd. | phone=+91 80 3910 1000, +91 80 3910 1111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-06-19| content=The only fine dining multi-cuisine restaurant outside Electronic City and on the way to Hosur caters to buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner apart from a selection from an international menu. }} *{{eat | name=Grasshopper | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 Kalena Agrahara, Bannerghata Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2659-3999, +91 98 4545-2646 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Freshly prepared seven course meal served on the table. Reservation required. Closed on Mondays. }} ===East Indian cuisine=== * {{eat | name=36 Chowringhee Lane | alt= | url= | email= | address=100ft Rd, BTM Layout | lat= | long= | directions=opp Reliance Fresh | phone=+91 80 4124 0979 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Bengali cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Bangaliana | alt= | url= | email= | address=355, 1st 'B' Main, 7th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=opp. HDFC Bank | phone=+91 80 2571 1058 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Bengali Delicacies (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) Restaurant, Take-away, Catering. Specialities: fish, mutton chicken and, of course, sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Bhojohori Manna | alt= | url= | email= | address=668/B 6th Block, Koramangala Club Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2550 3666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Free home delivery }} * {{eat | name=Dalama | url= | email= | address=#37, 6th block, Koramangala, 100 ft Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Kamat Hotel, Koramangala | phone=+91 80 4166 0921 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Odia cuisine including vegetable curries, chapati, meat, fish, prawn, crab and chicken delicacies. }} * {{eat | name=The Esplanade | alt= | url= | email= | address=KHB Colony | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4092 7878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers authentic Bengali cuisine. They also have a continental menu. }} ===European cuisine=== * {{eat | name=Cafe Y | alt= | url= | email= | address=Langford Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Prestige Elgin, Hosur Rd-Langford Rd junction | phone=+91 80 5114 4561 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Amazing sizzlers and steaks, nice ambiance. }} * {{eat | name=Via Milano | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Sony World | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Italian food. 3 course meal for 2 will cost an average of ₹2,000, (wine not included). }} ===North Indian cuisine=== * {{eat | name=Bay Leaf | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raheja Arcade, opposite Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A really nice place with reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Grameen | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raheja Arcade, opposite Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the best places to have good vegetarian North Indian food. }} * {{eat | name=Rasilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=JP Nagar 7 Phase, Shreyas Colony | lat= | long= | directions=close to Brigade Millennium & Elita Promenade Apartments, near RBI layout | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice place with very fine cuisine. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Caffe Pascucci | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Cafe-Pascucci-Bangalore-57902917850/ | email= | address=690/A, 15 Cross Road, 14th Main Road, Phase II, J P Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 2134 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Italian coffee chain brand. In 2010, Pascucci set up its own coffee retail shop in India with 10 outlets in Bangalore at prominent localities like Jayanagar, JP Nagar, MG Road, Malleshwaram and Indiranagar. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=J'Cubez | alt= | url= | email= | address=Banashankari 2nd Stage, opp. BDA complex | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For rock lovers }} * {{drink | name=Jimi's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Road, Koramangala 80ft. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A nice dark cozy bar along with Rock music and video. Best visited during weekends and is not hard on your pocket. }} * {{drink | name=Legends of Rock | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 Foot Rd, 6th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4130 3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Watch the Legends perform on large format TVs. }} * {{drink | name=Olio | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4092 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great ambiance with beer, wines and continental food. }} * {{drink | name=Purple Haze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Road, Koramangala (close to Jyothi Niwas College) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular for the classic rock that's played there. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=Barleyz - The Brew House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Above Taco Bell, Sony World signal, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Microbrewery }} * {{drink | name=Fuga | alt= | url= | email= | address=Richmond Town | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The best place for house music lovers. Expensive and fashionable. }} * {{drink | name=Firangi Paani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Art of Living Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.artofliving.org/in-en/bangalore | email=housing@vvmvp.org | address=Kanakapura Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026080204 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹400 | lastedit=2017-04-21 | content=Free food is given three times a day. Accommodation is shared between four people. The campus is undulating in terrain, and a free shuttle service is available between the numerous hostels and meditation centres. Very green campus with winding footpaths. Beware of snakes. (This hostel is two hours away from Bangalore city railway station in peak traffic.). }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Grand Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Cottonpet | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22374786 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹900 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Naveen | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cottonpet Main Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 222 55609 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹550 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Kamat Hotel | alt= | url= | email=kamathotellalbaghwestgate@gmail.com | address=227, Lalbagh West Gate R.V.Road, VV.Puram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-483 47 571, +91 80 2242 1839 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,400 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Manjunatha Paradise Delux Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=First Main, Cottonpet | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-22386909, +91 80223 86910 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹700 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Shree Vaishnav Gujarati Samaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gandhinagar | lat= | long= | directions=near Sapna cinema, Kempe Gowda Circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Costs ₹50 | content=A secure and decent place to stay if you are there for a day or two. A nice canteen with Gujarati food available. In the vicinity there is another good place available for fast food/lunch named "SLV". }} * {{sleep | name=Sri Gajanana Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cottonpete Main Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 89044 61010 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=The Bouvice | alt= | url=http://www.bouvice.com | email=info@bouvice.com | address=141C, S.T. Bed Layout, 1st Main Kormangala, Sector 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4152 4429, +91 93 4285 6034 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A beautiful apartment hotel in Kormangala. }} * {{sleep | name=Maple Suites | alt= | url=http://www.maplesuites.in | email= | address=#142 & 143, Dollar Layout. 4th Main, BTM II Stage | lat= | long= | directions=off Bannerghatta Road opp to Mantri Elite. | phone=+91 80 4282 2428 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=₹1,999 | content=Long and short-term stay. }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} dd4d0stww4nwpnbclsg5f9levxkf4cm 5091214 5091213 2025-07-11T06:10:13Z Sbb1413 2217354 /* Natural attractions */ Updated listing for Muthyala Maduvu 5091214 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Asia|pgname=South Bangalore}} '''South Bangalore''' is the southern part of the city. ==Get in== {{mapframe|12.88|77.579|width=500|height=500|zoom=12|name=Map of South Bangalore}} {{mapshapes|Q279343}}<!-- Namma Metro --> 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==See== ===Ashrams=== [[File:The art of living international center.jpg|thumbnail|The Art of Living]] * {{see | name=The Art of Living | alt= | url=http://www.artofliving.org/bangalore-ashram | email=info@vvmvp.org | address=Kanakapura Rd, Udayapura | lat=12.825845 | long=77.508759 | directions=near Cricket Coaching ground | phone=+91 9448386061, +91 80 67262626, +91 80 6726262627, +91 80 6726262628 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1666330 | lastedit=2022-11-20 | content=The international headquarters of the Art of Living Foundation. The ashram is spread over 65 acres and was established in 1986. They conduct frequent yoga and Ayurveda programmes. The campus is also the focal point of many service projects, such as rural development and education, organic farming initiatives, and research into the benefits of ‘Sudarshan Kriya’. While at the ashram, one cannot miss the Satsangs that are held every evening. Satsangs are gatherings where scattered minds unite through music, meditation, and wisdom to experience a higher state of consciousness. People from all over the world who know different languages participate in the singing of bhajans, or the repetitive chanting of a word or a verse. }} * {{see | name=Ramakrishna Math | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94877 | long=77.56676 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=There are many Ramakrishna ashrams in Bangalore, but the special and central one is in Gandhi Bazaar, an area with many temples. This mutt contains a vast meditating hall, a beautiful park, a Vedic school and many more facilities. Sarada Devi had meditated on a location in the park in this boundary. This location is preserved as a monument. A stone on which Swami Vivekananda sat when he visited Bangalore is also kept as a monument. This is a calm and peaceful place to meditate. }} ===Museums=== * {{see | name=Indian Music Experience Museum | alt= | url=https://www.indianmusicexperience.org/ | email=info@indianmusicexperience.org | address=Brigade Millenium Ave, 7th Phase, JP Nagar | lat=12.89177 | long=77.58372 | directions=opposite Wood Rose Club | phone=+91 96866 02366 | tollfree= | hours=10AM–6PM (closed M) | price=₹250 for persons over 12, ₹150 for senior citizens | lastedit=2018-12-14 | content=The only interactive music museum in India with exhibits on traditional and contemporary Indian music. The museum also hosts a learning centre to learn music. }} * {{see | name=NIMHANS Brain Museum | alt= | url=http://www.nimhans.ac.in/neurobiology-research-centre-nrc/ | email= | address=Hosur Rd | lat=12.940639 | long=77.598778 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30314570 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=A rather unusual museum with a collection of several different human brains. It has a diverse collection of over 600 brain samples and is the result of over 30 years of research. The museum seeks to help visitors understand how the brain works and get an insight into the kind of diseases that can affect it. }} ===Natural attractions=== [[File:Bangalore Lalbagh IMG 1612.JPG|thumbnail|Lalbagh Botanical Garden]] * {{see | name=[[Bannerghatta National Park]] | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.800833 | long=77.575556 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q2588520 | lastedit=2025-06-27 | content=A national park at the outskirts with a zoo, a pet corner, an animal rescue centre, a butterfly enclosure, an aquarium, a snake house and a safari park. }} * {{see | name=Bugle Rock | alt=Kahale Band | url= | email= | address=Basavanagudi | lat=12.94 | long=77.57 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q4986214 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A massive rock of peninsular gneiss. Kempe Gowda II built a tower on the Bugle Rock to mark the southern limit of the city. }} * {{see | name=Dodda Alada Mara | alt=ದೊಡ್ಡ ಆಲದ ಮರ; Big Banyan Tree | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.9094 | long=77.3956 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q5287736 | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=A giant 400-year-old Banyan tree about {{km|28}} from central Bangalore. This single plant covers 3 acres and is one of the largest of its kind. Buses can be taken from Majestic to Kengeri and then from Kengeri to Doda Alada Mara. There are direct buses from K. R. Market to Dodda Alada Mara, which stop just beside the tree. The tree is the natural home of numerous monkeys, and you should be careful with food, water, camera bags, and anything else that can be snatched away. }} * {{see | name=Muthyala Maduvu | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.688097 | long=77.664486 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6943914 | lastedit=2025-07-11 | content=Known for its waterfall and the mountain ranges it overlooks. It has a rich concentration of birds owing to the presence of the waterfall. Trekking enthusiasts also visited the mountain ranges, and trekking is a major adventure sport. }} * {{see | name=Turahalli Forest | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.881683 | long=77.524982 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q19899050 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=The dry and deciduous forest is a hot spot for cyclists. Most trees are eucalyptus. The orchids bloom during August, giving a brilliant white colour to contrast with the green of the forest. The forest is famous for harbouring different species of birds. Turahalli is also a natural rock climbing spot. The granite rocks come in various sizes and shapes. Many climbers practice here regularly to prepare for local or international competitions. There's a small Shani temple atop a rocky hill. }} ===Temples=== [[File:Nandi Temple Bangalore 5-11-2008 12-08-41 PM.JPG|thumb|Nandi at the Bull Temple]] * {{see | name=Bull Temple | alt=Dodda Ganeshana Gudi | url= | email= | address=Bull Temple Rd, NR Colony, Basavanagudi | lat=12.941848 | long=77.567948 | directions='''Majestic''': 43A-E, 45A-E, '''Shivajinagar''': 34A-F, 37A-F, '''Jayanagar'''/'''Vijayanagar''': 60A-K (Ramakrishna Ashrama) | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q1531614 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A typical Dravidian-style temple, famous for its mammoth bull statue that was carved from a single boulder. Legend has it that the temple was built to appease a marauding bull that stole local crops and that the offering was effective, with the bull subsequently leaving the area. Since then, local farmers have held an annual festival to express their gratitude. }} * {{see | name=Chandra Choodeswarar Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Hosur | lat= | long= | directions={{km|20}} from central Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q28402744 | lastedit=2023-06-05 | content=An ancient Shiva temple. The exact history of the temple is unknown. This is the only temple in Northern Tamil Nadu that has a golden chariot that is used for temple functions. }} * {{see | name=Dodda Ganapathi | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94289 | long=77.56823 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest temples in Bangalore, it is adjacent to the Bull Temple. The temple is famous for the huge monolith structure of Lord Ganesha, who was worshipped by the villagers to save them from the Bull that was damaging their crops in the area. The Bull Temple is a few metres away from this temple. }} * {{see | name=Gavi Gangadeshwara Cave Temple | url= | email= | address=Gavipuram, Kempegowda Nagar | lat=12.94829 | long=77.56322 | directions=right north of Hanumantha Nagar Park, north of Ramanjaneya Temple, in Gavipuram, adjacent to Basavanagudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours=7AM-12:30PM and 5-8:30PM | price= | content=Built by Kempe Gowda, this temple with four remarkable monolithic pillars is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple also has a rare idol of fire-god "Agni". The annual festival is on ''Makara Sankranti'' and thousands of devotees flock to see the sun's rays fall on the ''Shivlinga''. }} * {{see | name=Jnanakshi Rajarajeshwari Temple | alt= | url=https://rajarajeshwari.in/home/home | email= | address=Rajarajeshwari Nagar | lat=12.926731 | long=77.510492 | directions=just before Kengeri on Mysore Road | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q127427594 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati (Raja Rajeshwari). It was built by a renowned spiritual guru, Sri Sri Sri Tiruchi Mahaswaigal. Built in the ancient style with stones, the temple is very spacious. One can feel the peace and satisfaction when visiting. Weekends are very crowded. }} * {{see | name=Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bannerghatta Rd | lat=12.87495 | long=77.59435 | directions=after Indian Institute of Management, south of Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=Beautiful, spacious temple devoted to Sri Meenakshi Amma. Built in ancient style with stone structures, this place is a very cool and mind-refreshing place to see. You will feel the temple vibe of Tamil Nadu if you enter this temple complex in Bangalore. }} * {{see | name=Mukti Naga Temple | alt= | url=http://www.karnatakavision.com/mukti-naga-temple.php | email= | address= | lat=12.91465 | long=77.42299 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Contains the world's largest monolithic statue of Lord Naaga, about 16 feet tall and weighing 36 tons. The Mukti Naga Temple, which is run by Shri Subrahmanya Seva Trust, is in a serene ambience of Ramohalli, a village on the outskirts of the city. }} * {{see | name=Nageshwara Temple | alt=Naganatheshwara Temple | url= | email= | address=Begur | lat=12.87674 | long=77.62671 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q6958784 | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A temple complex built during the Western Ganga dynasty, with later-day additions by the Chola, Hoysala and Vijayanagara dynasties. It is known for bearing the oldest mention of the name "Bengaluru". The temple has a simple square sanctum, a vestibule that connects the sanctum to a great hall, which leads to an open hall. The open hall has six pillars, with an image of Nandi placed on a lotus platform in the outer bay. The sanctum has a lingam, the universal symbol of the god Shiva. }} * {{see | name=Ragi Gudda | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jayanagar 9th block | lat=12.91482 | long=77.59330 | directions=South of Bangalore | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=This is a famous Hanuman temple abode. The temple is on a mammoth rocky hill, and has very attractive chain of temples like Spathika Shiva, Ganesha and scenery within the premises. This is a very crowd attracting place during the period of Hanuman Jayanti in December. You get mahaprasadam meals on Saturday noon-1PM. }} * {{see | name=Shree Guruvayurappan Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address=Kanakapura Rd, Nettigere | lat=12.76094 | long=77.48794 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-28 | content=A small and nice Kerala-style temple which gives a great vibe of peace and tranquillity. Only traditional attire is allowed to enter the sanctum (dhotis for men and sarees for women). }} * {{see | name=Vasantha Vallabharaya Temple | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.89541 | long=77.55183 | directions=''' Majestic''' 210E, 210R '''Shivajinagar''' 210G , '''Market''': 210, 210D, 210E, '''Electronic City'''/'''Kengeri''' : 378) In South Bangalore, close to Sai Baba Temple, Eashwara Temple, Anjaneya Temple, off Vasantapura Road | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | content=A small hillock with an ancient temple dedicated to Sri Vasantha Vallabharaya Swamy. }} ==Do== * {{do | name=Ranga Shankara | alt= | url=http://www.rangashankara.org/ | email= | address=36/2, 8th Cross, J.P. Nagar, 2nd Phase | lat=12.911513 | long=77.587053 | directions= | phone=+91 80 26592777, +91 80 26494656 | tollfree= | hours=Evening shows start at 7:30PM | price=₹45–100 | wikidata=Q7292595 | lastedit=2025-07-09 | content=Many local groups perform here, although more often shows are presented by travelling groups touring India. The quality of the performances varies, but most plays are worth seeing, especially the ones by Indian playwrights or directors, as they can show you an Indian (or non-Western) perspective. Shows are in various languages, so it is a good idea to double-check whether the play is in English before buying or reserving (blocking) tickets. Audience members need to be present on time to be allowed entry to the theatre. It does not matter whether you are stuck in traffic or paid in advance, you simply will not be allowed inside after the specific time mentioned as the start time. }} * {{do | name=Ultimate Frisbee Club | alt= | url=http://www.learningtofly.in | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Although in a nascent stage, Ultimate Frisbee games are held on Tu Th Sa mornings starting 6:30AM. The teams comprise of players of all skill levels. }} ===Events=== * {{do | name=Kadlekai Parishe (Peanut fair) | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94500 | long=77.56786 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Every year, sometime during the months of Nov-Dec, the area around Bull Temple Road in South Bangalore hosts a peanut fair. Centuries ago, the villages in and around this area used to cultivate peanuts and the custom was to dedicate the first crop to Nandi (the Bull at the temple). Although the villages of yore are today residential areas, the tradition continues as peanut farmers congregate to sell their crop. The 2 day traditional fair has many stalls that sell peanuts, trinkets, bangles, pottery, dolls etc. There are also a number of food stalls. }} ===Lakes=== [[File:Madiwala Lake West Side.jpg|thumb|Madiwala Lake]] * {{do | name=Madiwala Lake | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.907778 | long=77.616667 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q30621418 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=One of the biggest lakes in Bangalore and a grave example of water pollution. The water was fit for drinking till the early 1990s, when the industrial waste and sewage made it unsafe. Despite this, the lake sees a huge number of spot-billed pelicans migrating in the winter, especially in November and December. }} * {{do | name=Thippagondanahalli Reservoir | alt=TG Halli Reservoir | url= | email= | address={{km|35}} W of city centre | lat=12.973333 | long=77.3425 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7784715 | lastedit=2025-06-29 | content=A reservoir at the confluence of the Arkavati and Kumudavati rivers. It is used by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) to supply water to the city. It is also a popular recreation spot in summer. Furthermore, it is said that a yogi used his supernatural powers to bring rain on the reservoir on 30 May 1985, when it had only 15 days of water supply. However, that rain is sometimes attributed to the regular south-western monsoon wind rather than any supernatural force. }} ===Spas=== * {{do | name=Sundaythespa | alt= | url=http://www.sundaythespa.com | email=info@sundaythespa.com | address=No.627/628, 5th Cross Road, 15th Main, 80 Feet Road, 4th Block, Koramangala Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-25520757 | tollfree=+91 80-25520758 | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2016-12-17 | content=Incorporates Ayurvedic, Indian and East Asian practices, offers professional services by well-trained staff. }} ==Work== * {{listing | name=Electronic City | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.85 | long=77.67 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q298273 | lastedit=2025-06-25 | content=A major information technology (IT) cluster of the city, with offices of IT giants like TCS (Tata Consultancy Services), Infosys, Wipro, HCL (Hindustan Computers Limited) and Tech Mahindra. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=Bannerghatta Road | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.91112 | long=77.60010 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2017-02-28 | content=Grasshopper is a space that exhibits clothing designs from the most experimental designers in India and also showcases other ideas - lighting design, products, theatre, music - an open space for expression! If that's too boring, you can keep driving and you have a thousand ways that you can take to enjoy the wildlife and the myriad reservoirs strewn across the area - you can still find your very own private haven. }} * {{buy | name=Gandhi Bazaar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.94594 | long=77.57058 | directions=in the heart of Basavangudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the oldest shopping areas in Bangalore, Gandhi Bazaar stretches for a short kilometer or so, bordered on both sides by shops selling everything from saris and clothes to plastics and kitchen utensils, fronted by vegetable and fruit stalls. }} * {{buy | name=Jayanagar Shopping Complex | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=12.92950 | long=77.58451 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2020-07-29| content=From antique jewellery stores, the authentic gold jewelry stores, saree stores, sweet meat stores, classic Iyengar bakeries, dress stores, and food stores that sell fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, and butter. Most of the products are comparatively cheap and are often value for money. }} * {{buy | name=Oasis Centre | alt= | url= | email= | address=Intermediate Ring Rd, Koramangala | lat=12.93749 | long=77.62804 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=A two-story store on Victoria Road in the heart of the new mall shopping district. This was one of the most coveted stores until the malls came along. It's an easy place to go shopping when you don't want too many options to confuse you or when you're tired and don't want to visit too many shops - you can get everything under one roof here. Good for clothes, cosmetics, watches, jewellery, shoes etc. You also get stylish furniture and other home and living items for a decent price. }} ===Handicrafts=== * {{buy | name=Royal Arts & Crafts | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2248 4797 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=21 K.H. Rd. Has a particularly wide selection of silk carpets and papier-mâché products. }} ===Shopping malls=== * {{buy | name=Nexus Mall Koramangala | alt= | url=https://www.nexusmalls.com/nexus-koramangala | email=helpdesk.koramangalamall@nexusmalls.com | address=Hosru Rd | lat=12.934444 | long=77.611111 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata=Q7734919 | lastedit=2025-06-26 | content=One of the well-known malls in Bangalore in an upscale suburb. Stores range from high international brands to traditional Indian Khadi clothing at the Khadder. The top floor of the mall contains an 11-screen cinema. For eating there is fast food and world cuisines including: Chinese, Vietnamese, Mexican and Italian and Indian. The PVR Cinema hall is here too. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=Anjappar Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=#50, 100 Ft. Road, 4th Block Kormangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Chettinad cuisine }} * {{eat | name=Friends Fast Food | alt= | url= | email= | address=Jyoti Nivas College Rd, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=300 m from Nexus mall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great Conti food at college prices. Casa Picola fans will like this one. }} * {{eat | name=Hyderabadi biriyani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Banerghatta Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near IIM -B, beside HSBC Bank and above Fabmall | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Serves good biriyani }} * {{eat | name=Kairali | alt= | url= | email= | address=Near Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Kamat Lokaruchi | alt= | url= | email= | address=Mysore Rd | lat= | long= | directions=just before Channapatna | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Amazing food and ambience. Authentic Mangalorean meals. }} * {{eat | name=Kebab Ki | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2023-01-23 | content=for "Adana Kebab" and other Turkish dishes. }} * {{eat | name=Kollapuri's | url= | email= | address=429/31 30th Cross, 4th Block Jaya Nagar | lat= | long= | directions=Near Jain Mandir | phone=+91 80 4121 1693, +91 80 2653 5207 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=An authentic Maharashtrian hotel run by Savaji. It serves bhakri, chapati and "Sheckle Edme" special Savaji stuffed roti with spicy sabjis and meat or other non-veg items }} * {{eat | name=Konkan | alt= | url= | email= | address=6th cross, 6th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2552 1530 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Mangalorean and Goan style cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Little Home | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 ft. Road, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Wipro K2 office | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Very good south and central Kerala food. Bad service though. }} * {{eat | name=The Paramount Restaurant | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Jyothi Nivas College | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=P!ing | alt= | url= | email= | address=No. 130, 1st Cross, 5th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Includes a dessert bay. Dim sum, sensible portions, good prices. }} * {{eat | name=Ponnuswamy | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near the National Games Village, opposite to Legends of Rock | phone=+91 80 4151 1919 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic south Tamil Nadu food. Try the biryani and sukka fry. No alcohol or smoking. Also at Residency Rd., next to Imperial Hotel. }} * {{eat | name=Rajvardhan Foods | url= | email= | address=1291 25th Main Road, 9th Block Jaya Nagar East | lat= | long= | directions=Near Big Bazaar | phone=+91 98 8630 3088, +91 98 8630 3089 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Best known for its vadapav, sabudana vada, khichdi. It also offers bhakri, thalipeeth. The snacks and other food offered here is comparatively expensive. This is because it is Bangalore's only authentic Maharashtrian food outlet. It also serves food fresh, only prepared after placing the order, so the wait and price is compensated. The food quality is excellent. }} * {{eat | name=Tharavadu | alt= | url= | email= | address=Bommanahalli, Hosur Rd | lat= | long= | directions=After Silk Board | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Vayal | alt= | url= | email= | address=Outer ring road (around Central mall) | lat= | long= | directions=After Silk Board | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Vidyarthi Bhavan | alt= | url= | email= | address=32 Gandhi Bazaar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2667 7588 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another very old and traditional breakfast place, exclusively known for its Masala Dosa. Similar to MTR, you can find people who have been having breakfast here since times immemorial. }} * {{eat | name=Yogi's | alt= | url= | email= | address=#86, 21st Main, Banashankari 2nd Stage | lat= | long= | directions=near BDA Complex | phone=+91 98 4584 9025, +91 98 4539 7363 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The "Sakkat Burger" and "Sakkat Mexican" are a must have. Wide range of burgers, sandwiches, ice creams, shakes and sundaes available. }} ===Budget=== * {{eat | name=Adiga's Foodline| url= | email= | address=502, 40th Cross, 8th block| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Nalapaka | url= | email= | address=(''across from HSBC Complex''), Bannerghatta, Arikere| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} * {{eat | name=Adiga's Park | url= | email= | address=585, 10th Main, 42nd cross, 5th Block Jayanagar| lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} *'''Anand Bhavan''', Koramangala. This is a mostly breakfast and sweet place. It has many native foods such as Dosa, Idli, Vada, and Chutney. It has a wide range of Indian sweets such as Jalebis, and Rasgullas. * {{eat | name=Brahmin's Coffee Bar | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=off ShankarMutt in Shankarapuram, Basavanagudi | phone=+91 87226 64284 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Famous for idly, vada and its delicious chutney. You also get khaarabath. Don't expect sambar for the vada here. }} * {{eat | name=Janani, J.P. Nagar | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A great place to have breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can have idli and sambar for ₹10 and a cup of tea for ₹8, a north Indian roti curry for ₹32. If you want to have good Punjabi food, go upstairs and get a good meals under ₹150. }} * {{eat | name=The Rameshwaram Cafe@JP Nagar | alt= | url= | email= | address=52, Outer Ring Road | lat=12.90643 | long=77.59059 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2024-09-11 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Shettara Beedi | alt=food street | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The entire street adjoining the famous VB Bakery at V V Puram is Bangalore's miniature version of Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor foodstalls. A haven for anyone who enjoys hawker fare, one can stall-hop and have a variety of snacks that'll satisfy even the most ravenous hunger and spend less than ₹100 in total. Some of the must-try dishes are dum-root and butter-bun congress at VB Bakery. The dosas, ''obbattu (sweet pancake)'', ''akkirotti (rice pancake)'', fried ''bondas'', butter-gulkand, and masala-pepsi available at the various stalls are also delicious. The street comes alive only in the evenings (after 6PM) and that only vegetarian fare is available here. }} * {{eat | name=Udupi Garden | url= | email= | address=16th Main BTM Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Simple Udupi restaurant. Serves very good south Indian dishes at nominal prices. Also serves north Indian food. }} * {{eat | name=Upahara Darshini | url= | email= | address=DVG Rd, Basavanagudi | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Another of Bangalore's new found Darshinis dishing out top notch masala dosa and Vada Sambhar. }} * {{eat | name=Vidhyarthi Bhavan | url= | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions=off Gandhi Bazar in Basavanagudi | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A gastronomic haven offering some of the best masala dosa in the world. This quaint little place is so famous that it has not even bothered to change its age-old sign board, and who needs it anyway, the aroma wafting through the air is a good enough indication that you are in the vicinity of the place. Get there early for a breakfast, there's always a bee-line for places to sit. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{eat | name=The Egg Factory | alt= | url= | email= | address=St.Marks Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4211 0041 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Multi-cuisine, The menu, as the name suggests, is all based on the indispensable ''egg''. Its also modelled on a factory with functional chairs and a menu that looks like an instruction manual. Its open for all day dining. Egg dishes from all over the world, including omelttes, scrambles, French toast, curries, sub's, pasta & desserts. Don't miss the fantastic huevos rancheros here, they make it as good as in Mexico. Innovative drinks, try the ''Chlorophyll Fix'', it looks and sounds weird, but tastes like heaven. Highly relaxed service. }} * {{eat | name=Grill Maximus | url= | email= | address=17th cross 4 main HSR Layout | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Famous for the Mediterranean cuisine.Also serve Arabian Indian and Italian Food. Only A la carte menu is available. ₹200-500 }} * {{eat | name=Sahib Sindh Sultan | alt= | url= | email= | address=Level 2, Nexus Mall, Hosur Rd, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2206 7878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Train-themed restaurant with a delicious, upscale menu. It is supposed to showcase NWFP. Their kakori kebabs are excellent. It also serves wine with the food. Expect a long wait. Or book ahead and roam around the mall or grab a few drinks from the adjoining '''Firangi Paani'''. ₹150-500 }} ===Splurge=== * {{eat | name=La Classic Hotel Extraordinaire | alt= | url=http://www.laclassic.in/ | email= | address=Plot# 158, Yadavanahalli, Hosur Main road, Attibele | lat= | long= | directions=Opp. Applicomp (India) Ltd. | phone=+91 80 3910 1000, +91 80 3910 1111 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= |lastedit=2023-06-19| content=The only fine dining multi-cuisine restaurant outside Electronic City and on the way to Hosur caters to buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner apart from a selection from an international menu. }} *{{eat | name=Grasshopper | alt= | url= | email= | address=45 Kalena Agrahara, Bannerghata Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2659-3999, +91 98 4545-2646 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Freshly prepared seven course meal served on the table. Reservation required. Closed on Mondays. }} ===East Indian cuisine=== * {{eat | name=36 Chowringhee Lane | alt= | url= | email= | address=100ft Rd, BTM Layout | lat= | long= | directions=opp Reliance Fresh | phone=+91 80 4124 0979 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Bengali cuisine. }} * {{eat | name=Bangaliana | alt= | url= | email= | address=355, 1st 'B' Main, 7th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=opp. HDFC Bank | phone=+91 80 2571 1058 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Bengali Delicacies (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) Restaurant, Take-away, Catering. Specialities: fish, mutton chicken and, of course, sweets. }} * {{eat | name=Bhojohori Manna | alt= | url= | email= | address=668/B 6th Block, Koramangala Club Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 2550 3666 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Free home delivery }} * {{eat | name=Dalama | url= | email= | address=#37, 6th block, Koramangala, 100 ft Rd | lat= | long= | directions=near Kamat Hotel, Koramangala | phone=+91 80 4166 0921 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Odia cuisine including vegetable curries, chapati, meat, fish, prawn, crab and chicken delicacies. }} * {{eat | name=The Esplanade | alt= | url= | email= | address=KHB Colony | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4092 7878 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Offers authentic Bengali cuisine. They also have a continental menu. }} ===European cuisine=== * {{eat | name=Cafe Y | alt= | url= | email= | address=Langford Rd | lat= | long= | directions=Near Prestige Elgin, Hosur Rd-Langford Rd junction | phone=+91 80 5114 4561 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Amazing sizzlers and steaks, nice ambiance. }} * {{eat | name=Via Milano | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions=near Sony World | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Authentic Italian food. 3 course meal for 2 will cost an average of ₹2,000, (wine not included). }} ===North Indian cuisine=== * {{eat | name=Bay Leaf | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raheja Arcade, opposite Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A really nice place with reasonable prices. }} * {{eat | name=Grameen | alt= | url= | email= | address=Raheja Arcade, opposite Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=One of the best places to have good vegetarian North Indian food. }} * {{eat | name=Rasilas | alt= | url= | email= | address=JP Nagar 7 Phase, Shreyas Colony | lat= | long= | directions=close to Brigade Millennium & Elita Promenade Apartments, near RBI layout | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Nice place with very fine cuisine. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Caffe Pascucci | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/Cafe-Pascucci-Bangalore-57902917850/ | email= | address=690/A, 15 Cross Road, 14th Main Road, Phase II, J P Nagar | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4091 2134 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Italian coffee chain brand. In 2010, Pascucci set up its own coffee retail shop in India with 10 outlets in Bangalore at prominent localities like Jayanagar, JP Nagar, MG Road, Malleshwaram and Indiranagar. }} ===Mid-range=== * {{drink | name=J'Cubez | alt= | url= | email= | address=Banashankari 2nd Stage, opp. BDA complex | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=For rock lovers }} * {{drink | name=Jimi's | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Road, Koramangala 80ft. Rd | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=A nice dark cozy bar along with Rock music and video. Best visited during weekends and is not hard on your pocket. }} * {{drink | name=Legends of Rock | alt= | url= | email= | address=80 Foot Rd, 6th Block, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4130 3232 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Watch the Legends perform on large format TVs. }} * {{drink | name=Olio | alt= | url= | email= | address=Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4092 7888 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Great ambiance with beer, wines and continental food. }} * {{drink | name=Purple Haze | alt= | url= | email= | address=Residency Road, Koramangala (close to Jyothi Niwas College) | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Popular for the classic rock that's played there. }} ===Splurge=== * {{drink | name=Barleyz - The Brew House | alt= | url= | email= | address=Above Taco Bell, Sony World signal, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=Microbrewery }} * {{drink | name=Fuga | alt= | url= | email= | address=Richmond Town | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content=The best place for house music lovers. Expensive and fashionable. }} * {{drink | name=Firangi Paani | alt= | url= | email= | address=Nexus Mall, Koramangala | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | content= }} ==Sleep== {{sleeppricerange|Under ₹1,500|₹1,500-4,500|Over ₹4,500}} ===Budget=== * {{sleep | name=Art of Living Hostel | alt= | url=https://www.artofliving.org/in-en/bangalore | email=housing@vvmvp.org | address=Kanakapura Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 8026080204 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹400 | lastedit=2017-04-21 | content=Free food is given three times a day. Accommodation is shared between four people. The campus is undulating in terrain, and a free shuttle service is available between the numerous hostels and meditation centres. Very green campus with winding footpaths. Beware of snakes. (This hostel is two hours away from Bangalore city railway station in peak traffic.). }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Grand Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=OTC Road, Cottonpet | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 22374786 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹900 | lastedit=2015-04-24 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Hotel Naveen | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cottonpet Main Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 222 55609 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹550 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Kamat Hotel | alt= | url= | email=kamathotellalbaghwestgate@gmail.com | address=227, Lalbagh West Gate R.V.Road, VV.Puram | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-483 47 571, +91 80 2242 1839 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price=₹1,400 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{listing | name=Manjunatha Paradise Delux Inn | alt= | url= | email= | address=First Main, Cottonpet | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80-22386909, +91 80223 86910 | tollfree= | hours= | price=₹700 | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Shree Vaishnav Gujarati Samaj | alt= | url= | email= | address=Gandhinagar | lat= | long= | directions=near Sapna cinema, Kempe Gowda Circle | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price=Costs ₹50 | content=A secure and decent place to stay if you are there for a day or two. A nice canteen with Gujarati food available. In the vicinity there is another good place available for fast food/lunch named "SLV". }} * {{sleep | name=Sri Gajanana Lodge | alt= | url= | email= | address=Cottonpete Main Road | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 89044 61010 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2024-06-25 | content= }} ===Mid-range=== * {{sleep | name=The Bouvice | alt= | url=http://www.bouvice.com | email=info@bouvice.com | address=141C, S.T. Bed Layout, 1st Main Kormangala, Sector 4 | lat= | long= | directions= | phone=+91 80 4152 4429, +91 93 4285 6034 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | content=A beautiful apartment hotel in Kormangala. }} * {{sleep | name=Maple Suites | alt= | url=http://www.maplesuites.in | email= | address=#142 & 143, Dollar Layout. 4th Main, BTM II Stage | lat= | long= | directions=off Bannerghatta Road opp to Mantri Elite. | phone=+91 80 4282 2428 | tollfree= | fax= | checkin=noon | checkout=noon | price=₹1,999 | content=Long and short-term stay. }} ==Connect== {{IsPartOf|Bangalore}} {{outlinedistrict}} {{geo||}} nbzrich3fv6mv80p7on4im4gn7hlfpt 0 211687 5090801 5088060 2025-07-10T13:24:11Z Mx. Granger 132185 pagebanner 5090801 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} '''Mérens-les-Vals''' is a town in the [[Ariège]] department in [[France]]. ==Understand== ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== * {{Do | name=Natural hot springs | url= | email= | facebook= | address= | lat=42.652099 | long=1.8512 | directions= Head towards the town hall (mairie), then towards the Romanesque church. Park above the church and follow the only uphill path. | image= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-27| description= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Auberge du Nabre|lat=42.65611004694209|long=1.8429807373614195|address=le village d'en haut, 09110 Mérens-les-Vals|phone=+33 5 61 01 89 36|url=https://www.aubergedunabre.com/|content=Guesthouse in the upper village.}} * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Camping de Mérens|lat=42.64646601527881|long=1.8310245105731093|address=600 Ville de Bau, 09110 Mérens-les-Vals|phone=+33 5 61 02 85 40|url=http://www.camping.merenslesvals.fr/de/haus/|content=Open all year, 1.3 km south of the village.}} ==Connect== ==Go next== {{outlinecity}} {{IsPartOf|Haute vallée de l'Ariège}} n1pxk449p7adiw0zypohud0fw3709zb 5090804 5090801 2025-07-10T13:28:41Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs, but the containing region is currently a rural area article, so more attention is needed 5090804 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} '''Mérens-les-Vals''' is a town in the [[Ariège]] department in [[France]]. ==Understand== ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== * {{Do | name=Natural hot springs | url= | email= | facebook= | address= | lat=42.652099 | long=1.8512 | directions= Head towards the town hall (mairie), then towards the Romanesque church. Park above the church and follow the only uphill path. | image= | phone= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2018-02-27| description= }} ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Auberge du Nabre|lat=42.65611004694209|long=1.8429807373614195|address=le village d'en haut, 09110 Mérens-les-Vals|phone=+33 5 61 01 89 36|url=https://www.aubergedunabre.com/|content=Guesthouse in the upper village.}} * {{listing|type=sleep|name=Camping de Mérens|lat=42.64646601527881|long=1.8310245105731093|address=600 Ville de Bau, 09110 Mérens-les-Vals|phone=+33 5 61 02 85 40|url=http://www.camping.merenslesvals.fr/de/haus/|content=Open all year, 1.3 km south of the village.}} ==Connect== ==Go next== {{outlinecity}} {{IsPartOf|Ariège}} gou8i52omis2yb9x4wndlyuqjgeammq 3 211713 5091021 5088811 2025-07-10T19:12:15Z Ibaman 195012 5091021 wikitext text/x-wiki == What not to link to == Hello, Yugantaran! Thank you for contributing to Wikivoyage, but please note that one or more of your recent edits has been reverted as it appeared to be an attempt to use this site to advertise or promote a business or service. Wikivoyage is created by travellers ''for'' travellers, and while [[WV:Welcome, business owners|business owners and employees]] are welcome to contribute, use of this site for promotional purposes is not allowed. If you feel that your edits were incorrectly identified as promotional, '''please read Wikivoyage's [[WV:Don't tout|guidelines on identifying promotional edits]]'''. If, after reading that guideline, you ''still'' feel your edits were incorrectly removed, please use this [[WV:Using talk pages|talk page]] or the talk page of the article where your edit was removed to explain why your change was not promotional. Note that it is very important that you discuss your proposed change '''before''' re-adding it since repeated promotional edits can lead to a temporary block of your account's ability to edit Wikivoyage, and in serious cases the business in question may be blacklisted from Wikivoyage. More relevantly, read [[what not to link to]]. Thanks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 18:49, 6 July 2025 (UTC) :And you're now edit warring, so here's a 3-day block that you can spend reading this page and the links I gave you. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:26, 6 July 2025 (UTC) :: did you read the information above? Do you want to be definitely blocked? [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 19:12, 10 July 2025 (UTC) 72rjfcyqwtqyouz1b59apppodu1ojao 5091047 5091021 2025-07-10T20:27:02Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* What not to link to */ Reply 5091047 wikitext text/x-wiki == What not to link to == Hello, Yugantaran! Thank you for contributing to Wikivoyage, but please note that one or more of your recent edits has been reverted as it appeared to be an attempt to use this site to advertise or promote a business or service. Wikivoyage is created by travellers ''for'' travellers, and while [[WV:Welcome, business owners|business owners and employees]] are welcome to contribute, use of this site for promotional purposes is not allowed. If you feel that your edits were incorrectly identified as promotional, '''please read Wikivoyage's [[WV:Don't tout|guidelines on identifying promotional edits]]'''. If, after reading that guideline, you ''still'' feel your edits were incorrectly removed, please use this [[WV:Using talk pages|talk page]] or the talk page of the article where your edit was removed to explain why your change was not promotional. Note that it is very important that you discuss your proposed change '''before''' re-adding it since repeated promotional edits can lead to a temporary block of your account's ability to edit Wikivoyage, and in serious cases the business in question may be blacklisted from Wikivoyage. More relevantly, read [[what not to link to]]. Thanks. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 18:49, 6 July 2025 (UTC) :And you're now edit warring, so here's a 3-day block that you can spend reading this page and the links I gave you. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 19:26, 6 July 2025 (UTC) :: did you read the information above? Do you want to be definitely blocked? [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 19:12, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::My problem with [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Puri&diff=prev&oldid=5091018 this edit], in addition to its being a weak attempt to tout your website that can't be linked per [[what not to link to]], is that it provides no useful information. If you want to list any restaurant, use a [[Wikivoyage:Listings]] template and put only the restaurant's own home page in the "url" tab. If it has no home page of its own, do not put anything in that tab, but make sure to include location and contact information. A mere name, even if it's the name of one restaurant, is useless. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 20:27, 10 July 2025 (UTC) gpslbl5waztakhwh32jnjloi6x3g36y 0 211758 5090892 5090173 2025-07-10T14:58:58Z Ground Zero 1423298 Ground Zero moved page [[Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] to [[Hồ Tràm]]: [[Wikivoyage:Naming conventions#Disambiguation|Unnecessary disambiguator]] 5090173 wikitext text/x-wiki {{style|Gross violations of [[WV:Tone]], [[Don't tout]], [[External links]] in display here; probably [[WIAA|not a proper article]]}} Hồ Tràm is a serene beach destination located in Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu Province, southern Vietnam, approximately 120 km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City. With its pristine stretches of golden sand, warm turquoise waters, and minimal development compared to other coastal areas, Hồ Tràm offers a perfect blend of tranquility, nature, and accessibility. Once a hidden gem, it is now emerging as one of Vietnam’s most desirable beach escapes, especially for weekenders and families looking for peace away from the city bustle. Understand Hồ Tràm is not a town per se, but rather a coastal strip between the towns of Lộc An and Bình Châu, under the administration of Xuyên Mộc District. It was formed by merging parts of Phước Thuận and Phước Tân communes. Unlike nearby Vũng Tàu, which caters more to mass tourism, Hồ Tràm maintains a relaxed and upmarket atmosphere, attracting discerning travelers who value natural beauty, privacy, and low-density tourism. The local economy is a mix of tourism, fishing, and agriculture. With increasing interest from eco-conscious travelers and developers, Hồ Tràm is being recognized for its sustainable potential, with resorts and villas built around preserving the surrounding hills, casuarina forests, and pristine beaches. Get In By car or motorbike: Hồ Tràm is roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. The most direct route is via QL51 and then DT44B through Bà Rịa town. Well-maintained highways make it suitable for private cars and ride-hailing services. By bus: Several private shuttle services and limousine vans operate daily from District 1 and Tan Son Nhat Airport to Hồ Tràm. By boat and car combo: A more scenic option includes taking the Greenlines hydrofoil from HCMC to Vũng Tàu and then a taxi transfer to Hồ Tràm (around 60 km further east). Get Around Motorbikes are available for rent through resorts or local vendors. Taxis and private car hires are recommended for groups or families. Roads are quiet and easy to navigate, especially along the scenic coastal route DT994. See 1. Hồ Tràm Beach The crown jewel of the area – untouched, expansive, and less crowded than most other Vietnamese beaches. Its soft sand, gentle waves, and long, palm-lined stretches make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and photography. [[File:HoTram Beach.jpg|thumb|Ho Tram Beach]] 2. The Hamptons Pier This newly developed pedestrian-only pier has quickly become an iconic landmark of Hồ Tràm. It extends 270 meters into the sea and is popular for sunset views, seaside strolls, and drone shots. Around the pier, you'll find chic cafes, art installations, and seafood eateries. [[File:Cầu ngắm biển Hampton Pier.jpg|thumb|Hamptons Pier Seaside Viewing Bridge]] 3. Bình Châu Hot Springs (Suối nước nóng Bình Châu) Located 20 km northeast of Hồ Tràm, this natural geothermal area includes over 70 open-air hot springs, mud baths, and a healing mineral spa complex. Perfect for a day of wellness and nature immersion. Families can enjoy activities like egg-boiling in hot spring water and crocodile feeding. 4. Phước Bửu Nature Reserve (Khu bảo tồn thiên nhiên Bình Châu – Phước Bửu) This little-known forest reserve offers trails through tropical woodlands, rare flora and fauna, and freshwater lakes. Great for birdwatching and eco-hiking. 5. Minh Đạm Resistance Base A historical site tucked in the mountains near Long Hải (40 km away), it offers insights into Vietnam’s resistance during the wars, with underground tunnels and panoramic views. 6. Lộc An Lagoon A peaceful, rural backwater dotted with lotus ponds and fishing villages. Visitors can rent small boats and witness traditional net fishing at sunrise. Do Sunset beach walks along Hồ Tràm's wide, wind-swept sands. BBQ and bonfire nights at private villas like The Cottage Hồ Tràm Hills. Mud therapy & hot soaking at Bình Châu. Picnic under the casuarina trees near Phước Bửu forest trails. Fishing with locals or join a half-day boat trip. Cycling along the DT994 coastal road, with hill, forest, and ocean views. Sleep Accommodation in Hồ Tràm ranges from luxury resorts to stylish boutique villas and nature-inspired retreats. Most are beachfront or surrounded by forested hills. Below are some standout options: 🏡 [https://thecottagehotram.com/en/ The Cottage Hồ Tràm Hills] A beautifully designed private villa estate, nestled just below the tranquil Hồ Tràm hills, 5 minutes from the beach and 10 minutes from Hamptons Pier. This 6-bedroom villa accommodates 12–16 guests and features: [[File:TheCottageHoTramHills.jpg|thumb|The Cottage Hồ Tram Hills]] Two outdoor Jacuzzi tubs A breezy BBQ area Fully equipped modern kitchen Open-concept living/dining area with hill views Hammock garden & outdoor lounge zones It’s ideal for family reunions, group retreats, or private getaways. A highlight is its blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, surrounded by forested foothills yet still close to key attractions. 📞 Hotline/Zalo: (+84) 90336 5555 - (+84) 907936622 🌐 Website: https://thecottagehotram.com Other options: Melia Hồ Tràm – 5-star beachfront luxury InterContinental Grand Hồ Tràm – Casino, golf, and entertainment hub Sanctuary Hồ Tràm Villas – Pool villas with private access Buy Fresh seafood from Hồ Tràm fish market (early mornings) Handmade sea salt and dried squid Local herbal oils and mineral products from Bình Châu Spa shops Eat & Drink Seafood dominates the scene, often grilled to order. Notable dishes include: Grilled scallops with green onion oil Steamed crab with lemongrass Mực một nắng (semi-dried squid) Try Làng Bè Hồ Tràm, a floating seafood restaurant with sea views. For more refined dining, head to the restaurants at Melia or InterContinental. Local tip: Bring your own fresh seafood to The Cottage Hồ Tràm Hills, where guests can cook in the villa’s full kitchen or BBQ under the stars. Go Next Long Hải – 45 km southwest: peaceful beaches, fresh markets, local life. Vũng Tàu – 60 km away: livelier with urban amenities, seafood streets, and the Christ of Vũng Tàu statue. La Gi or Phan Thiết – further up the coast, great for extended beach hopping trips. Tips Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds. Prepare insect repellent when exploring forests or wetlands. Weather is best from December to April (dry season). Limited ATMs – bring cash. Wi-Fi is available in most villas and resorts. Final Thoughts Hồ Tràm is Vietnam’s answer to "under-the-radar luxury." It’s where the forest meets the sea, and time slows down. Whether you’re soaking in hot springs, exploring coastal nature, or sipping coffee on a villa balcony surrounded by hills, Hồ Tràm offers a soulful retreat that’s hard to replicate. Especially with havens like The Cottage Hồ Tràm Hills, your escape is bound to be private, peaceful, and memorable. {{stub}} fs56bn1gd1iojgdrsqg8u1thcw0pm7g 5090906 5090892 2025-07-10T15:13:18Z Ground Zero 1423298 Format and de-tout 5090906 wikitext text/x-wiki {{style|Gross violations of [[WV:Tone]], [[Don't tout]], [[External links]] in display here; probably [[WIAA|not a proper article]]}} '''Hồ Tràm''' is a serene beach destination located in Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu Province, southern Vietnam, approximately 120 km southeast of [[Ho Chi Minh City]]. With its pristine stretches of golden sand, warm turquoise waters, and minimal development compared to other coastal areas, Hồ Tràm offers tranquility, nature, and accessibility. It is emerging as one of Vietnam’s beach escapes, especially for weekenders and families looking for peace away from the city. ==Understand== Hồ Tràm is a coastal strip between the towns of Lộc An and Bình Châu, under the administration of Xuyên Mộc District. Hồ Tràm maintains a relaxed and upmarket atmosphere, attracting travelers who value natural beauty, privacy, and low-density tourism. The local economy is a mix of tourism, fishing, and agriculture. Hồ Tràm is being recognized for its sustainable potential, with resorts and villas built around preserving the surrounding hills, casuarina forests, and pristine beaches. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds. Prepare insect repellent when exploring forests or wetlands. Weather is best from December to April (dry season). There are few ATMs – bring cash. Wi-Fi is available in most villas and resorts. ==Get in== By car or motorbike: Hồ Tràm is roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. The most direct route is via QL51 and then DT44B through Bà Rịa town. Well-maintained highways make it suitable for private cars and ride-hailing services. By bus: Several private shuttle services and limousine vans operate daily from District 1 and Tan Son Nhat Airport to Hồ Tràm. By boat and car combo: A more scenic option includes taking the Greenlines hydrofoil from HCMC to Vũng Tàu and then a taxi transfer to Hồ Tràm (around 60 km further east). ==Get around== Motorbikes are available for rent through resorts or local vendors. Taxis and private car hires are recommended for groups or families. Roads are quiet and easy to navigate, especially along the scenic coastal route DT994. ==See== [[File:HoTram Beach.jpg|thumb|Ho Tram Beach]] * '''Hồ Tràm Beach''' – untouched, expansive, and less crowded than most other Vietnamese beaches. Its soft sand, gentle waves, and long, palm-lined stretches make it a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and photography. [[File:Cầu ngắm biển Hampton Pier.jpg|thumb|Hamptons Pier Seaside Viewing Bridge]] * '''The Hamptons Pier''' – This pedestrian-only pier extends 270 meters into the sea and is popular for sunset views, seaside strolls, and drone shots. Around the pier, you'll find cafes, art installations, and seafood restaurants. * '''Bình Châu Hot Springs''' (Suối nước nóng Bình Châu) – Located 20 km northeast of Hồ Tràm, this natural geothermal area includes over 70 open-air hot springs, mud baths, and a healing mineral spa complex. Perfect for a day of wellness and nature immersion. Families can enjoy activities like egg-boiling in hot spring water and crocodile feeding. * '''Phước Bửu Nature Reserve''' (Khu bảo tồn thiên nhiên Bình Châu – Phước Bửu) – This little-known forest reserve offers trails through tropical woodlands, rare flora and fauna, and freshwater lakes. Great for birdwatching and eco-hiking. * Minh Đạm Resistance Base – A historical site tucked in the mountains near Long Hải (40 km away), it offers insights into Vietnam’s resistance during the wars, with underground tunnels and panoramic views. * '''Lộc An Lagoon''' – A peaceful, rural backwater dotted with lotus ponds and fishing villages. Visitors can rent small boats and witness traditional net fishing at sunrise. ==Do== * Sunset beach walks along Hồ Tràm's wide, wind-swept sands. * BBQ and bonfire nights at private villas. * Mud therapy & hot soaking at Bình Châu. * Picnic under the casuarina trees near Phước Bửu forest trails. * Fishing with locals or join a half-day boat trip. * Cycling along the DT994 coastal road, with hill, forest, and ocean views. ==Buy== * Fresh seafood from Hồ Tràm fish market (early mornings) * Handmade sea salt and dried squid * Local herbal oils and mineral products from Bình Châu Spa shops ==Eat and drink== Seafood dominates the scene, often grilled to order. Notable dishes include: * Grilled scallops with green onion oil * Steamed crab with lemongrass * Mực một nắng (semi-dried squid) Try Làng Bè Hồ Tràm, a floating seafood restaurant with sea views. For more refined dining, head to the restaurants at Melia or InterContinental. ==Sleep== Accommodation in Hồ Tràm ranges from luxury resorts to stylish boutique villas and nature-inspired retreats. Most are beachfront or surrounded by forested hills. * {{eat | name= The Cottage Hồ Tràm Hills | alt= | url= https://thecottagehotram.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +84 90336 5555 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A private villa estate, 5 minutes from the beach and 10 minutes from Hamptons Pier. This 6-bedroom villa accommodates 12–16 guests and features: two outdoor Jacuzzi tubs, an outdoor BBQ area, a fully equipped kitchen, open-concept living/dining area with hill views, hammock garden & outdoor lounge zones. }} * Melia Hồ Tràm – 5-star beachfront luxury * InterContinental Grand Hồ Tràm – Casino, golf, and entertainment hub * Sanctuary Hồ Tràm Villas – Pool villas with private access ==Go next== * Long Hải – 45 km southwest: peaceful beaches, fresh markets, local life. * Vũng Tàu – 60 km away: livelier with urban amenities, seafood streets, and the Christ of * Vũng Tàu statue. * La Gi or Phan Thiết – further up the coast, great for extended beach hopping trips. {{outlineruralarea}} {{IsPartOf|}} {{geo||}} hniu7y3jdlf0ouoyfr673u9nj0ddaiq 5090914 5090906 2025-07-10T15:21:11Z Ground Zero 1423298 5090914 wikitext text/x-wiki {{style|Gross violations of [[WV:Tone]], [[Don't tout]], [[External links]] in display here; probably [[WIAA|not a proper article]]}} '''Hồ Tràm''' is a serene beach destination located in Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu Province, [[Southern Vietnam]], approximately 120 km southeast of [[Ho Chi Minh City]]. With its stretches of golden sand, warm turquoise waters, and minimal development compared to other coastal areas, Hồ Tràm offers tranquility, nature, and accessibility. It is emerging as a beach escapes, especially for weekenders and families looking for peace away from the city. ==Understand== Hồ Tràm is a coastal strip between the towns of Lộc An and Bình Châu, under the administration of Xuyên Mộc District. Hồ Tràm maintains a relaxed and upmarket atmosphere, attracting travelers who value natural beauty, privacy, and low-density tourism. The local economy is a mix of tourism, fishing, and agriculture. Hồ Tràm is being recognized for its sustainable potential, with resorts and villas built around preserving the surrounding hills, casuarina forests, and pristine beaches. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds. Prepare insect repellent when exploring forests or wetlands. Weather is best from December to April (dry season). There are few ATMs – bring cash. Wi-Fi is available in most villas and resorts. ==Get in== By car or motorbike: Hồ Tràm is roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. The most direct route is via QL51 and then DT44B through Bà Rịa town. Well-maintained highways make it suitable for private cars and ride-hailing services. By bus: Several private shuttle services and limousine vans operate daily from District 1 and Tan Son Nhat Airport to Hồ Tràm. By boat and car combo: A more scenic option includes taking the Greenlines hydrofoil from HCMC to Vũng Tàu and then a taxi transfer to Hồ Tràm (around 60 km further east). ==Get around== Motorbikes are available for rent through resorts or local vendors. Taxis and private car hires are recommended for groups or families. Roads are quiet and easy to navigate, especially along the scenic coastal route DT994. ==See== [[File:HoTram Beach.jpg|thumb|Ho Tram Beach]] * '''Hồ Tràm Beach''' – untouched, expansive, and less crowded than most other Vietnamese beaches. Its soft sand, gentle waves, and long, palm-lined stretches make it a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and photography. [[File:Cầu ngắm biển Hampton Pier.jpg|thumb|Hamptons Pier Seaside Viewing Bridge]] * '''The Hamptons Pier''' – This pedestrian-only pier extends 270 meters into the sea and is popular for sunset views, seaside strolls, and drone shots. Around the pier, you'll find cafes, art installations, and seafood restaurants. * '''Bình Châu Hot Springs''' (Suối nước nóng Bình Châu) – Located 20 km northeast of Hồ Tràm, this natural geothermal area includes over 70 open-air hot springs, mud baths, and a healing mineral spa complex. Perfect for a day of wellness and nature immersion. Families can enjoy activities like egg-boiling in hot spring water and crocodile feeding. * '''Phước Bửu Nature Reserve''' (Khu bảo tồn thiên nhiên Bình Châu – Phước Bửu) – This little-known forest reserve offers trails through tropical woodlands, rare flora and fauna, and freshwater lakes. Great for birdwatching and eco-hiking. * Minh Đạm Resistance Base – A historical site tucked in the mountains near Long Hải (40 km away), it offers insights into Vietnam’s resistance during the wars, with underground tunnels and panoramic views. * '''Lộc An Lagoon''' – A peaceful, rural backwater dotted with lotus ponds and fishing villages. Visitors can rent small boats and witness traditional net fishing at sunrise. ==Do== * Sunset beach walks along Hồ Tràm's wide, wind-swept sands. * BBQ and bonfire nights at private villas. * Mud therapy & hot soaking at Bình Châu. * Picnic under the casuarina trees near Phước Bửu forest trails. * Fishing with locals or join a half-day boat trip. * Cycling along the DT994 coastal road, with hill, forest, and ocean views. ==Buy== * Fresh seafood from Hồ Tràm fish market (early mornings) * Handmade sea salt and dried squid * Local herbal oils and mineral products from Bình Châu Spa shops ==Eat and drink== Seafood dominates the scene, often grilled to order. Notable dishes include: * Grilled scallops with green onion oil * Steamed crab with lemongrass * Mực một nắng (semi-dried squid) Try Làng Bè Hồ Tràm, a floating seafood restaurant with sea views. For more refined dining, head to the restaurants at Melia or InterContinental. ==Sleep== Accommodation in Hồ Tràm ranges from luxury resorts to stylish boutique villas and nature-inspired retreats. Most are beachfront or surrounded by forested hills. * {{eat | name= The Cottage Hồ Tràm Hills | alt= | url= https://thecottagehotram.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +84 90336 5555 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A private villa estate, 5 minutes from the beach and 10 minutes from Hamptons Pier. This 6-bedroom villa accommodates 12–16 guests and features: two outdoor Jacuzzi tubs, an outdoor BBQ area, a fully equipped kitchen, open-concept living/dining area with hill views, hammock garden & outdoor lounge zones. }} * Melia Hồ Tràm – 5-star beachfront luxury * InterContinental Grand Hồ Tràm – Casino, golf, and entertainment hub * Sanctuary Hồ Tràm Villas – Pool villas with private access ==Go next== * Long Hải – 45 km southwest: peaceful beaches, fresh markets, local life. * Vũng Tàu – 60 km away: livelier with urban amenities, seafood streets, and the Christ of * Vũng Tàu statue. * La Gi or Phan Thiết – further up the coast, great for extended beach hopping trips. {{outlineruralarea}} {{IsPartOf|Southern Vietnam}} {{geo|10.468333|107.4425}} e7xgig31balrysb1k9v4mw7nfnnjdtj 5090915 5090914 2025-07-10T15:21:40Z Ground Zero 1423298 5090915 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} '''Hồ Tràm''' is a serene beach destination located in Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu Province, [[Southern Vietnam]], approximately 120 km southeast of [[Ho Chi Minh City]]. With its stretches of golden sand, warm turquoise waters, and minimal development compared to other coastal areas, Hồ Tràm offers tranquility, nature, and accessibility. It is emerging as a beach escapes, especially for weekenders and families looking for peace away from the city. ==Understand== Hồ Tràm is a coastal strip between the towns of Lộc An and Bình Châu, under the administration of Xuyên Mộc District. Hồ Tràm maintains a relaxed and upmarket atmosphere, attracting travelers who value natural beauty, privacy, and low-density tourism. The local economy is a mix of tourism, fishing, and agriculture. Hồ Tràm is being recognized for its sustainable potential, with resorts and villas built around preserving the surrounding hills, casuarina forests, and pristine beaches. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds. Prepare insect repellent when exploring forests or wetlands. Weather is best from December to April (dry season). There are few ATMs – bring cash. Wi-Fi is available in most villas and resorts. ==Get in== By car or motorbike: Hồ Tràm is roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. The most direct route is via QL51 and then DT44B through Bà Rịa town. Well-maintained highways make it suitable for private cars and ride-hailing services. By bus: Several private shuttle services and limousine vans operate daily from District 1 and Tan Son Nhat Airport to Hồ Tràm. By boat and car combo: A more scenic option includes taking the Greenlines hydrofoil from HCMC to Vũng Tàu and then a taxi transfer to Hồ Tràm (around 60 km further east). ==Get around== Motorbikes are available for rent through resorts or local vendors. Taxis and private car hires are recommended for groups or families. Roads are quiet and easy to navigate, especially along the scenic coastal route DT994. ==See== [[File:HoTram Beach.jpg|thumb|Ho Tram Beach]] * '''Hồ Tràm Beach''' – untouched, expansive, and less crowded than most other Vietnamese beaches. Its soft sand, gentle waves, and long, palm-lined stretches make it a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and photography. [[File:Cầu ngắm biển Hampton Pier.jpg|thumb|Hamptons Pier Seaside Viewing Bridge]] * '''The Hamptons Pier''' – This pedestrian-only pier extends 270 meters into the sea and is popular for sunset views, seaside strolls, and drone shots. Around the pier, you'll find cafes, art installations, and seafood restaurants. * '''Bình Châu Hot Springs''' (Suối nước nóng Bình Châu) – Located 20 km northeast of Hồ Tràm, this natural geothermal area includes over 70 open-air hot springs, mud baths, and a healing mineral spa complex. Perfect for a day of wellness and nature immersion. Families can enjoy activities like egg-boiling in hot spring water and crocodile feeding. * '''Phước Bửu Nature Reserve''' (Khu bảo tồn thiên nhiên Bình Châu – Phước Bửu) – This little-known forest reserve offers trails through tropical woodlands, rare flora and fauna, and freshwater lakes. Great for birdwatching and eco-hiking. * Minh Đạm Resistance Base – A historical site tucked in the mountains near Long Hải (40 km away), it offers insights into Vietnam’s resistance during the wars, with underground tunnels and panoramic views. * '''Lộc An Lagoon''' – A peaceful, rural backwater dotted with lotus ponds and fishing villages. Visitors can rent small boats and witness traditional net fishing at sunrise. ==Do== * Sunset beach walks along Hồ Tràm's wide, wind-swept sands. * BBQ and bonfire nights at private villas. * Mud therapy & hot soaking at Bình Châu. * Picnic under the casuarina trees near Phước Bửu forest trails. * Fishing with locals or join a half-day boat trip. * Cycling along the DT994 coastal road, with hill, forest, and ocean views. ==Buy== * Fresh seafood from Hồ Tràm fish market (early mornings) * Handmade sea salt and dried squid * Local herbal oils and mineral products from Bình Châu Spa shops ==Eat and drink== Seafood dominates the scene, often grilled to order. Notable dishes include: * Grilled scallops with green onion oil * Steamed crab with lemongrass * Mực một nắng (semi-dried squid) Try Làng Bè Hồ Tràm, a floating seafood restaurant with sea views. For more refined dining, head to the restaurants at Melia or InterContinental. ==Sleep== Accommodation in Hồ Tràm ranges from luxury resorts to stylish boutique villas and nature-inspired retreats. Most are beachfront or surrounded by forested hills. * {{eat | name= The Cottage Hồ Tràm Hills | alt= | url= https://thecottagehotram.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +84 90336 5555 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A private villa estate, 5 minutes from the beach and 10 minutes from Hamptons Pier. This 6-bedroom villa accommodates 12–16 guests and features: two outdoor Jacuzzi tubs, an outdoor BBQ area, a fully equipped kitchen, open-concept living/dining area with hill views, hammock garden & outdoor lounge zones. }} * Melia Hồ Tràm – 5-star beachfront luxury * InterContinental Grand Hồ Tràm – Casino, golf, and entertainment hub * Sanctuary Hồ Tràm Villas – Pool villas with private access ==Go next== * Long Hải – 45 km southwest: peaceful beaches, fresh markets, local life. * Vũng Tàu – 60 km away: livelier with urban amenities, seafood streets, and the Christ of * Vũng Tàu statue. * La Gi or Phan Thiết – further up the coast, great for extended beach hopping trips. {{outlineruralarea}} {{IsPartOf|Southern Vietnam}} {{geo|10.468333|107.4425}} hc7wsp856x9n3zzf5390milab3cnhed 5090916 5090915 2025-07-10T15:22:51Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Understand */ add picture from Commons 5090916 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} '''Hồ Tràm''' is a serene beach destination located in Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu Province, [[Southern Vietnam]], approximately 120 km southeast of [[Ho Chi Minh City]]. With its stretches of golden sand, warm turquoise waters, and minimal development compared to other coastal areas, Hồ Tràm offers tranquility, nature, and accessibility. It is emerging as a beach escapes, especially for weekenders and families looking for peace away from the city. ==Understand== [[file:Ho Tram Beach.jpg| thumb|Traditional Vietnamese fishing boat on Ho Tram Beach]] Hồ Tràm is a coastal strip between the towns of Lộc An and Bình Châu, under the administration of Xuyên Mộc District. Hồ Tràm maintains a relaxed and upmarket atmosphere, attracting travelers who value natural beauty, privacy, and low-density tourism. The local economy is a mix of tourism, fishing, and agriculture. Hồ Tràm is being recognized for its sustainable potential, with resorts and villas built around preserving the surrounding hills, casuarina forests, and pristine beaches. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds. Prepare insect repellent when exploring forests or wetlands. Weather is best from December to April (dry season). There are few ATMs – bring cash. Wi-Fi is available in most villas and resorts. ==Get in== By car or motorbike: Hồ Tràm is roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. The most direct route is via QL51 and then DT44B through Bà Rịa town. Well-maintained highways make it suitable for private cars and ride-hailing services. By bus: Several private shuttle services and limousine vans operate daily from District 1 and Tan Son Nhat Airport to Hồ Tràm. By boat and car combo: A more scenic option includes taking the Greenlines hydrofoil from HCMC to Vũng Tàu and then a taxi transfer to Hồ Tràm (around 60 km further east). ==Get around== Motorbikes are available for rent through resorts or local vendors. Taxis and private car hires are recommended for groups or families. Roads are quiet and easy to navigate, especially along the scenic coastal route DT994. ==See== [[File:HoTram Beach.jpg|thumb|Ho Tram Beach]] * '''Hồ Tràm Beach''' – untouched, expansive, and less crowded than most other Vietnamese beaches. Its soft sand, gentle waves, and long, palm-lined stretches make it a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and photography. [[File:Cầu ngắm biển Hampton Pier.jpg|thumb|Hamptons Pier Seaside Viewing Bridge]] * '''The Hamptons Pier''' – This pedestrian-only pier extends 270 meters into the sea and is popular for sunset views, seaside strolls, and drone shots. Around the pier, you'll find cafes, art installations, and seafood restaurants. * '''Bình Châu Hot Springs''' (Suối nước nóng Bình Châu) – Located 20 km northeast of Hồ Tràm, this natural geothermal area includes over 70 open-air hot springs, mud baths, and a healing mineral spa complex. Perfect for a day of wellness and nature immersion. Families can enjoy activities like egg-boiling in hot spring water and crocodile feeding. * '''Phước Bửu Nature Reserve''' (Khu bảo tồn thiên nhiên Bình Châu – Phước Bửu) – This little-known forest reserve offers trails through tropical woodlands, rare flora and fauna, and freshwater lakes. Great for birdwatching and eco-hiking. * Minh Đạm Resistance Base – A historical site tucked in the mountains near Long Hải (40 km away), it offers insights into Vietnam’s resistance during the wars, with underground tunnels and panoramic views. * '''Lộc An Lagoon''' – A peaceful, rural backwater dotted with lotus ponds and fishing villages. Visitors can rent small boats and witness traditional net fishing at sunrise. ==Do== * Sunset beach walks along Hồ Tràm's wide, wind-swept sands. * BBQ and bonfire nights at private villas. * Mud therapy & hot soaking at Bình Châu. * Picnic under the casuarina trees near Phước Bửu forest trails. * Fishing with locals or join a half-day boat trip. * Cycling along the DT994 coastal road, with hill, forest, and ocean views. ==Buy== * Fresh seafood from Hồ Tràm fish market (early mornings) * Handmade sea salt and dried squid * Local herbal oils and mineral products from Bình Châu Spa shops ==Eat and drink== Seafood dominates the scene, often grilled to order. Notable dishes include: * Grilled scallops with green onion oil * Steamed crab with lemongrass * Mực một nắng (semi-dried squid) Try Làng Bè Hồ Tràm, a floating seafood restaurant with sea views. For more refined dining, head to the restaurants at Melia or InterContinental. ==Sleep== Accommodation in Hồ Tràm ranges from luxury resorts to stylish boutique villas and nature-inspired retreats. Most are beachfront or surrounded by forested hills. * {{eat | name= The Cottage Hồ Tràm Hills | alt= | url= https://thecottagehotram.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +84 90336 5555 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A private villa estate, 5 minutes from the beach and 10 minutes from Hamptons Pier. This 6-bedroom villa accommodates 12–16 guests and features: two outdoor Jacuzzi tubs, an outdoor BBQ area, a fully equipped kitchen, open-concept living/dining area with hill views, hammock garden & outdoor lounge zones. }} * Melia Hồ Tràm – 5-star beachfront luxury * InterContinental Grand Hồ Tràm – Casino, golf, and entertainment hub * Sanctuary Hồ Tràm Villas – Pool villas with private access ==Go next== * Long Hải – 45 km southwest: peaceful beaches, fresh markets, local life. * Vũng Tàu – 60 km away: livelier with urban amenities, seafood streets, and the Christ of * Vũng Tàu statue. * La Gi or Phan Thiết – further up the coast, great for extended beach hopping trips. {{outlineruralarea}} {{IsPartOf|Southern Vietnam}} {{geo|10.468333|107.4425}} 4hsl4buzjn75mdbxses3er2wbxxc8te 5090927 5090916 2025-07-10T15:34:56Z Mrkstvns 144844 pagebanner 5090927 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Ho Tram banner.jpeg|pgname=Hồ Tràm}} '''Hồ Tràm''' is a serene beach destination located in Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu Province, [[Southern Vietnam]], approximately 120 km southeast of [[Ho Chi Minh City]]. With its stretches of golden sand, warm turquoise waters, and minimal development compared to other coastal areas, Hồ Tràm offers tranquility, nature, and accessibility. It is emerging as a beach escapes, especially for weekenders and families looking for peace away from the city. ==Understand== [[file:Ho Tram Beach.jpg| thumb|Traditional Vietnamese fishing boat on Ho Tram Beach]] Hồ Tràm is a coastal strip between the towns of Lộc An and Bình Châu, under the administration of Xuyên Mộc District. Hồ Tràm maintains a relaxed and upmarket atmosphere, attracting travelers who value natural beauty, privacy, and low-density tourism. The local economy is a mix of tourism, fishing, and agriculture. Hồ Tràm is being recognized for its sustainable potential, with resorts and villas built around preserving the surrounding hills, casuarina forests, and pristine beaches. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds. Prepare insect repellent when exploring forests or wetlands. Weather is best from December to April (dry season). There are few ATMs – bring cash. Wi-Fi is available in most villas and resorts. ==Get in== By car or motorbike: Hồ Tràm is roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. The most direct route is via QL51 and then DT44B through Bà Rịa town. Well-maintained highways make it suitable for private cars and ride-hailing services. By bus: Several private shuttle services and limousine vans operate daily from District 1 and Tan Son Nhat Airport to Hồ Tràm. By boat and car combo: A more scenic option includes taking the Greenlines hydrofoil from HCMC to Vũng Tàu and then a taxi transfer to Hồ Tràm (around 60 km further east). ==Get around== Motorbikes are available for rent through resorts or local vendors. Taxis and private car hires are recommended for groups or families. Roads are quiet and easy to navigate, especially along the scenic coastal route DT994. ==See== [[File:HoTram Beach.jpg|thumb|Ho Tram Beach]] * '''Hồ Tràm Beach''' – untouched, expansive, and less crowded than most other Vietnamese beaches. Its soft sand, gentle waves, and long, palm-lined stretches make it a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and photography. [[File:Cầu ngắm biển Hampton Pier.jpg|thumb|Hamptons Pier Seaside Viewing Bridge]] * '''The Hamptons Pier''' – This pedestrian-only pier extends 270 meters into the sea and is popular for sunset views, seaside strolls, and drone shots. Around the pier, you'll find cafes, art installations, and seafood restaurants. * '''Bình Châu Hot Springs''' (Suối nước nóng Bình Châu) – Located 20 km northeast of Hồ Tràm, this natural geothermal area includes over 70 open-air hot springs, mud baths, and a healing mineral spa complex. Perfect for a day of wellness and nature immersion. Families can enjoy activities like egg-boiling in hot spring water and crocodile feeding. * '''Phước Bửu Nature Reserve''' (Khu bảo tồn thiên nhiên Bình Châu – Phước Bửu) – This little-known forest reserve offers trails through tropical woodlands, rare flora and fauna, and freshwater lakes. Great for birdwatching and eco-hiking. * Minh Đạm Resistance Base – A historical site tucked in the mountains near Long Hải (40 km away), it offers insights into Vietnam’s resistance during the wars, with underground tunnels and panoramic views. * '''Lộc An Lagoon''' – A peaceful, rural backwater dotted with lotus ponds and fishing villages. Visitors can rent small boats and witness traditional net fishing at sunrise. ==Do== * Sunset beach walks along Hồ Tràm's wide, wind-swept sands. * BBQ and bonfire nights at private villas. * Mud therapy & hot soaking at Bình Châu. * Picnic under the casuarina trees near Phước Bửu forest trails. * Fishing with locals or join a half-day boat trip. * Cycling along the DT994 coastal road, with hill, forest, and ocean views. ==Buy== * Fresh seafood from Hồ Tràm fish market (early mornings) * Handmade sea salt and dried squid * Local herbal oils and mineral products from Bình Châu Spa shops ==Eat and drink== Seafood dominates the scene, often grilled to order. Notable dishes include: * Grilled scallops with green onion oil * Steamed crab with lemongrass * Mực một nắng (semi-dried squid) Try Làng Bè Hồ Tràm, a floating seafood restaurant with sea views. For more refined dining, head to the restaurants at Melia or InterContinental. ==Sleep== Accommodation in Hồ Tràm ranges from luxury resorts to stylish boutique villas and nature-inspired retreats. Most are beachfront or surrounded by forested hills. * {{eat | name= The Cottage Hồ Tràm Hills | alt= | url= https://thecottagehotram.com/en/ | email= | address= | lat= | long= | directions= | phone= +84 90336 5555 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | wikidata= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=A private villa estate, 5 minutes from the beach and 10 minutes from Hamptons Pier. This 6-bedroom villa accommodates 12–16 guests and features: two outdoor Jacuzzi tubs, an outdoor BBQ area, a fully equipped kitchen, open-concept living/dining area with hill views, hammock garden & outdoor lounge zones. }} * Melia Hồ Tràm – 5-star beachfront luxury * InterContinental Grand Hồ Tràm – Casino, golf, and entertainment hub * Sanctuary Hồ Tràm Villas – Pool villas with private access ==Go next== * Long Hải – 45 km southwest: peaceful beaches, fresh markets, local life. * Vũng Tàu – 60 km away: livelier with urban amenities, seafood streets, and the Christ of * Vũng Tàu statue. * La Gi or Phan Thiết – further up the coast, great for extended beach hopping trips. {{outlineruralarea}} {{IsPartOf|Southern Vietnam}} {{geo|10.468333|107.4425}} rg5gtqbjbnujz94zcxcd9qx6ck38lzu 2 211780 5090721 5090714 2025-07-10T12:08:26Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added banner 5090721 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93110 | long = 12.32667 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Across the way, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A chic yet welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned **Scaliddre** offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavors, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly “What’s there, is there”) offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century **baglio** (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. ada4ghehukbx3awkwik9o1zk8ccdbtq 5090727 5090721 2025-07-10T12:13:59Z Kned Wiki 2327203 changed caption 5090727 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. [[File:Cava del Bue Marino.jpg|thumb|300px|The Fra Santo Quarry Caves near Bue Marino, Favignana's most dramatic swim spot]] * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93110 | long = 12.32667 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Across the way, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A chic yet welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned **Scaliddre** offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavors, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly “What’s there, is there”) offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century **baglio** (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. qgcrqsviryt33p4l9z98y8es5y6fyhm 5090730 5090727 2025-07-10T12:15:58Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added Villa Florio image 5090730 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== [[File:Favignana, Villa Florio.jpg|thumb|300px|[[Palazzo Florio]], a 19th-century Neoclassical villa built by the wealthy Florio family. Today it overlooks the main piazza and houses a sea turtle rescue centre.]] Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. [[File:Cava del Bue Marino.jpg|thumb|300px|The Fra Santo Quarry Caves near Bue Marino, Favignana's most dramatic swim spot]] * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93110 | long = 12.32667 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Across the way, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A chic yet welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned **Scaliddre** offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavors, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly “What’s there, is there”) offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century **baglio** (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. ibjimd8npuf8hmhv8euywsj82ld2kvv 5090731 5090730 2025-07-10T12:16:27Z Kned Wiki 2327203 5090731 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== [[File:Favignana, Villa Florio.jpg|thumb|300px|Palazzo Florio, a 19th-century Neoclassical villa built by the wealthy Florio family. Today it overlooks the main piazza and houses a sea turtle rescue centre.]] Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. [[File:Cava del Bue Marino.jpg|thumb|300px|The Fra Santo Quarry Caves near Bue Marino, Favignana's most dramatic swim spot]] * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93110 | long = 12.32667 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Across the way, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A chic yet welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned **Scaliddre** offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavors, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly “What’s there, is there”) offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century **baglio** (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. 864gx9olg66rjk0pp2dnmfilo7a4480 5090732 5090731 2025-07-10T12:17:15Z Kned Wiki 2327203 5090732 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== [[File:Favignana, Villa Florio.jpg|thumb|300px|Palazzo Florio, a 19th-century Neoclassical villa built by the wealthy Florio family.]] Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. [[File:Cava del Bue Marino.jpg|thumb|300px|The Fra Santo Quarry Caves near Bue Marino, Favignana's most dramatic swim spot]] * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93110 | long = 12.32667 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Across the way, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A chic yet welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned **Scaliddre** offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavors, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly “What’s there, is there”) offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century **baglio** (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. 1s20yvhfxrf76lqyvsujvi2g5cr60ya 5090735 5090732 2025-07-10T12:19:43Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added Do picture 5090735 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== [[File:Favignana, Villa Florio.jpg|thumb|300px|Palazzo Florio, a 19th-century Neoclassical villa built by the wealthy Florio family.]] Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. [[File:Cava del Bue Marino.jpg|thumb|300px|The Fra Santo Quarry Caves near Bue Marino, Favignana's most dramatic swim spot]] * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} [[File:Favignana 8.jpg|thumb|300px|Crystal-clear waters and sandy shallows — one of Favignana’s many idyllic swim spots.]] * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93110 | long = 12.32667 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Across the way, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A chic yet welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned **Scaliddre** offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavors, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly “What’s there, is there”) offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century **baglio** (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. 47g9lgany1oykyrfj41get9cg89kl1x 5090737 5090735 2025-07-10T12:21:46Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added street image 5090737 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== [[File:Favignana, Villa Florio.jpg|thumb|300px|Palazzo Florio, a 19th-century Neoclassical villa built by the wealthy Florio family.]] Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. [[File:Cava del Bue Marino.jpg|thumb|300px|The Fra Santo Quarry Caves near Bue Marino, Favignana's most dramatic swim spot]] * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} [[File:Favignana 8.jpg|thumb|300px|Crystal-clear waters and sandy shallows — one of Favignana’s many idyllic swim spots.]] * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== [[File:Night street at Favignana Island, Sicily (Italy) - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Evening lights and quiet charm in the streets of Favignana town.]] Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93110 | long = 12.32667 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Across the way, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A chic yet welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned **Scaliddre** offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavors, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly “What’s there, is there”) offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century **baglio** (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. 4jn8injwnu7z8vze3xvsloeasffxr1l 5090740 5090737 2025-07-10T12:24:37Z Kned Wiki 2327203 5090740 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== [[File:Favignana, Villa Florio.jpg|thumb|300px|Palazzo Florio, a 19th-century Neoclassical villa built by the wealthy Florio family.]] Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. [[File:Cava del Bue Marino.jpg|thumb|300px|The Fra Santo Quarry Caves near Bue Marino, Favignana's most dramatic swim spot]] * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} [[File:Favignana 8.jpg|thumb|300px|Crystal-clear waters and sandy shallows — one of Favignana’s many idyllic swim spots.]] * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== [[File:Night street at Favignana Island, Sicily (Italy) - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Evening lights and quiet charm in the streets of Favignana town.]] Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93110 | long = 12.32667 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Across the way, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A chic yet welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned **Scaliddre** offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavors, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly “What’s there, is there”) offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Favignana 02.JPG|thumb|300px|A quiet corner of Favignana’s waterfront.]] Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century **baglio** (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. t4k0r5pu1purq6o048ffa8l33rxypqw 5090742 5090740 2025-07-10T12:25:19Z Kned Wiki 2327203 5090742 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|350px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== [[File:Favignana, Villa Florio.jpg|thumb|300px|Palazzo Florio, a 19th-century Neoclassical villa built by the wealthy Florio family.]] Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. [[File:Cava del Bue Marino.jpg|thumb|300px|The Fra Santo Quarry Caves near Bue Marino, Favignana's most dramatic swim spot]] * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} [[File:Favignana 8.jpg|thumb|300px|Crystal-clear waters and sandy shallows — one of Favignana’s many idyllic swim spots.]] * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== [[File:Night street at Favignana Island, Sicily (Italy) - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Evening lights and quiet charm in the streets of Favignana town.]] Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93110 | long = 12.32667 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Across the way, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A chic yet welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned **Scaliddre** offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavors, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly “What’s there, is there”) offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Favignana 02.JPG|thumb|300px|A quiet corner of Favignana’s waterfront.]] Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century **baglio** (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. lehqnbo3hpw7iac7cwuvd1q6ryney27 5090752 5090742 2025-07-10T12:31:34Z Kned Wiki 2327203 5090752 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|350px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== [[File:Favignana, Villa Florio.jpg|thumb|300px|Palazzo Florio, a 19th-century Neoclassical villa built by the wealthy Florio family.]] Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. [[File:Cava del Bue Marino.jpg|thumb|300px|The Fra Santo Quarry Caves near Bue Marino, Favignana's most dramatic swim spot]] * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} [[File:Favignana 8.jpg|thumb|300px|Crystal-clear waters and sandy shallows — one of Favignana’s many idyllic swim spots.]] * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== [[File:Night street at Favignana Island, Sicily (Italy) - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Evening lights and quiet charm in the streets of Favignana town.]] Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93110 | long = 12.32667 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Across the way, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A chic yet welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned Scaliddre offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavours, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly "What’s there, is there") offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Favignana 02.JPG|thumb|300px|A quiet corner of Favignana’s waterfront.]] Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century **baglio** (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. ln20a9q1evd0bo05f48l4kalp7xwadj 5090753 5090752 2025-07-10T12:34:08Z Kned Wiki 2327203 changed description of sotto sale 5090753 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|350px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== [[File:Favignana, Villa Florio.jpg|thumb|300px|Palazzo Florio, a 19th-century Neoclassical villa built by the wealthy Florio family.]] Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. [[File:Cava del Bue Marino.jpg|thumb|300px|The Fra Santo Quarry Caves near Bue Marino, Favignana's most dramatic swim spot]] * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} [[File:Favignana 8.jpg|thumb|300px|Crystal-clear waters and sandy shallows — one of Favignana’s many idyllic swim spots.]] * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== [[File:Night street at Favignana Island, Sicily (Italy) - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Evening lights and quiet charm in the streets of Favignana town.]] Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93108 | long = 12.32845 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Nearby, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A chic yet welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned Scaliddre offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavours, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly "What’s there, is there") offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Favignana 02.JPG|thumb|300px|A quiet corner of Favignana’s waterfront.]] Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century **baglio** (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. eg2ip8wet6of9fj3c9yp0rhdsy9xsr9 5091228 5090753 2025-07-11T07:10:13Z Kned Wiki 2327203 /* Sleep */ 5091228 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|350px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== [[File:Favignana, Villa Florio.jpg|thumb|300px|Palazzo Florio, a 19th-century Neoclassical villa built by the wealthy Florio family.]] Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. [[File:Cava del Bue Marino.jpg|thumb|300px|The Fra Santo Quarry Caves near Bue Marino, Favignana's most dramatic swim spot]] * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} [[File:Favignana 8.jpg|thumb|300px|Crystal-clear waters and sandy shallows — one of Favignana’s many idyllic swim spots.]] * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== [[File:Night street at Favignana Island, Sicily (Italy) - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Evening lights and quiet charm in the streets of Favignana town.]] Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93108 | long = 12.32845 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Nearby, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A chic yet welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned Scaliddre offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavours, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly "What’s there, is there") offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Favignana 02.JPG|thumb|300px|A quiet corner of Favignana’s waterfront.]] Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century ''baglio'' (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. hz2m3785kcdluc46bxkekml5xbhawcy 5091229 5091228 2025-07-11T07:13:03Z Kned Wiki 2327203 /* Eat */ 5091229 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Favignana mare (cropped).jpg|caption=Turquoise waters off Favignana’s limestone coast|height=300px}} '''Favignana''' is the largest of the [[Aegadian Islands]], set just 30 minutes by ferry from [[Trapani]] off the west coast of Sicily. Part of the vast Egadi Marine Reserve, it’s known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life — from silvery shoals of fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin. [[File:Favignana Cala Rossa 2 - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|350px|Cala Rossa, Favignana's most iconic swimming cove, named for the bloodshed during the Battle of the Aegates in 241 BC.]] Flat and butterfly-shaped, Favignana is edged with jagged limestone coves, ancient stone quarries, and dramatic cliff-carved swim spots like Bue Marino. In summer, the island hums with sun-seeking Italians, stylish but laid-back. With few cars and no high-rises, it’s ideal for cycling, swimming, and savouring long, slow meals by the sea. ==Understand== Favignana has been settled since ancient times, once known as Aegusa ("goat island") by the Greeks and later used by Phoenician traders. Some scholars and local lore connect the island to Homer’s Odyssey, imagining it as one of the stops on Odysseus’s voyage — a place of wild cliffs, elusive winds, and mysterious coves. Its place in recorded history was sealed in 241 BC, when nearby waters saw the Battle of the Aegates — the final clash of the First Punic War, where a Roman fleet sank more than 100 Carthaginian ships. According to legend, the blood that washed ashore gave ''Cala Rossa'' (Red Cove) its name. Through the Middle Ages and beyond, the island passed through the hands of Arabs, Normans, and Spanish rulers. Its fortunes grew in the 19th century, when the powerful Florio family transformed Favignana into a hub of tuna fishing and stone quarrying, building what became one of the Mediterranean’s most important canneries. Though the factory has long since closed, it remains a striking landmark — now restored as a museum that tells the story of an island shaped by the sea, stone, and hard work. Today, tourism has taken over as Favignana’s main trade, but the rhythms of island life — salt air, quiet streets, and sea-swimming locals — still echo its working past. ==Get in== Favignana is easily reached by '''hydrofoil or car ferry''', with crossings taking as little as 30 minutes. [[Trapani]] is the main departure point, offering both options, while [[Marsala]] has hydrofoil service only. Boats run year-round, though they are more frequent in summer. Tickets can be bought at the port or booked online. In high season, especially for evening returns, it's best to arrive early, as departures can sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani and Marsala * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – slower, scenic car ferries from Trapani only ==Get around== {{mapframe | 37.9255 | 12.3238 | zoom=12 | width=400 | align=right }} Most visitors arrive in the {{marker|name=main port |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.32556}} of Favignana town, and many accommodations are within easy walking distance. If you're staying farther out — in a countryside villa or coastal resort — you can arrange a transfer in advance. Taxis are limited, so don’t count on finding one spontaneously. Favignana is largely flat and compact, making it perfect for exploring by bike or e-bike. Roads are quiet, distances short, and most of the island's best coves are reachable on two wheels. * '''Bike & e‑bike rentals''' are available near the port and around town — expect around €10/day for a standard bike or €20 for an e‑bike. * '''Scooters and small cars''' can also be rented, though car access is restricted in peak summer (July–August) and unnecessary for most visitors. * '''Seasonal shuttle buses''', a small '''tourist train''', and a few '''taxis''' connect key points, but schedules are limited and geared toward summer crowds. Exploring by '''boat''' is also popular. You can hire a skipper, join a group grotto tour, or rent a small dinghy for the day from the harbour. ==See== [[File:Favignana, Villa Florio.jpg|thumb|300px|Palazzo Florio, a 19th-century Neoclassical villa built by the wealthy Florio family.]] Favignana’s modest size hides a rich trove of sights shaped by nature, history, and industry. From tuna factories-turned-museums to sunken botanical gardens and elegant villas, these highlights offer a window into the island’s layered past and its evolving identity. * {{see | name = Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica | alt = Tuna Cannery Museum | lat = 37.92966 | long = 12.32365 | content = Built by the Florio family in 1859, this massive red-brick complex was once the largest tuna-preserving plant in the Mediterranean. Now a museum, it preserves boats, machinery, and rare archival film of the ''mattanza''—the brutal annual tuna harvest that shaped local life until the early 2000s. Guided tours and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Giardino dell’Impossibile | alt = The Impossible Garden | lat = 37.91822 | long = 12.35643 | content = A striking 4-hectare botanical garden created inside abandoned calcarenite quarries, featuring nearly 500 Mediterranean plant species. Tunnels, sunlit groves, fountains, and stone-lined pools give it a dreamy, labyrinthine feel. Open April–November; guided walks and audio guides are available. }} * {{see | name = Palazzo Florio | alt = Florio Palace | lat = 37.93233 | long = 12.32680 | content = A graceful 19th-century Neoclassical mansion built by the Florio family, overlooking Favignana’s main piazza. Today it houses the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, run in collaboration with WWF Italia and Legambiente. Some public info panels and occasional guided visits detail the rescue efforts and island conservation. }} ==Do== Favignana’s magic lies not in museums or monuments, but in its landscapes — especially its coastline. The island is a playground of jagged cliffs, turquoise coves, and sun-bleached quarries turned swimming spots. Whether you're diving into sea caves, floating over seagrass meadows, or clambering down to secluded inlets, most of what there is to ''do'' here starts with the sea. [[File:Cava del Bue Marino.jpg|thumb|300px|The Fra Santo Quarry Caves near Bue Marino, Favignana's most dramatic swim spot]] * {{do | name = Cala Rotonda | alt = Round Cove | lat = 37.92511 | long = 12.28307 | content = A small, nearly circular bay on the island’s west coast, enclosed by jagged cliffs and known for its calm, chilly waters and sandy seabed. Popular with sailboats, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming or lounging on the rocks. Tucked into the cliffside, the nearby ''Grotta del Lampadario'' glows with surreal flecks of neon green and purple light, especially striking when the sun hits the cave’s interior just right. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia di Calamoni | alt = Calamoni Beach | lat = 37.92027 | long = 12.33308 | content = One of the island’s best spots for a morning swim, especially when the winds favour the southern coast. Wade in from a rocky spit beside a waterside café, and swim through a narrow channel over a coral ridge into an underwater prairie of ''Posidonia oceanica'' — a vital seagrass that produces oxygen, shelters marine life, and stabilises the coastline. Early light and calm waters make this a peaceful and otherworldly experience. }} * {{do | name = Spiaggia Bue Marino | alt = Bue Marino Cove | lat = 37.91734 | long = 12.36997 | content = Possibly the island’s most stunning swim spot, Bue Marino is a dramatic cove lined with beige cliffs chipped into jagged cubes. The sea here is a shifting mosaic — cobalt over dense seagrass meadows, ice-blue above white sand. The underwater Posidonia meadows provide habitat for fish and help oxygenate the Mediterranean. Sunbathe on the flat rocks, leap into the deep water, or just float and soak in the view. }} [[File:Favignana 8.jpg|thumb|300px|Crystal-clear waters and sandy shallows — one of Favignana’s many idyllic swim spots.]] * {{do | name = Cava di fra Santo | alt = Fra Santo Quarry Caves | lat = 37.92142 | long = 12.36925 | content = A maze of calcarenite caves carved from cliffside quarries, now softly lit by sun and overgrown with agave. These vast chambers—once the heart of Favignana’s stone export—feature arched tunnels and dramatic light-and-shadow contrasts. Ideal for gentle exploration, photography, and discovering the island’s industrial past. Bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight. }} * {{do | name = Cala Rossa | alt = Red Cove | lat = 37.92210 | long = 12.36286 | content = Perhaps the most storied cove on the island, named for the bloodshed after the Roman victory over Carthage in 241 BC. Today, Cala Rossa is famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear cobalt water, and striking underwater light. The flat rocks make good sunbathing platforms, though access can be tricky via a rocky path — bring shoes and a bit of patience. Popular with swimmers, snorkellers, and photographers. }} * {{do | name = Grotta degli Innamorati | alt = Lovers’ Cave | lat = 37.95069 | long = 12.31056 | content = Accessible by boat or via a rugged coastal trail, this sea cave is named for two rock formations that seem to 'embrace' beneath the waves. Inside, an intimate grotto opens off the main cavern, with ever-changing hues of blue and green as sunlight filters through the water. Once you enter the cave, you emerge into a small internal bay perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds. It's one of the hidden gems of Favignana's dramatic coast. }} ==Buy== Favignana isn’t a shopping destination, but you’ll find a handful of small boutiques and artisan workshops in the town centre, especially near the main piazza. Typical souvenirs include ceramics, local tuna products, handmade jewellery, soaps made with island herbs, and regional wines. Some artists and craftsmen keep irregular hours, but are often happy to open their doors if asked. ==Eat== [[File:Night street at Favignana Island, Sicily (Italy) - panoramio (1).jpg|thumb|300px|Evening lights and quiet charm in the streets of Favignana town.]] Favignana’s food scene is shaped by the sea, with menus built around tuna, bream, swordfish, and the island’s seasonal catch. In the old town, you'll find everything from creative osterias to rustic trattorias serving pasta with sea urchin, grilled fish, and couscous alla trapanese. Dining tends to be relaxed and al fresco in summer, with tables spilling into the narrow streets and piazzas. Advance booking is smart in July and August, especially at popular spots. * {{eat | name = Sotto Sale | alt = Osteria & Ristorante Sotto Sale | lat = 37.93108 | long = 12.32845 | url = https://www.sottosale.com/ | content = Two distinct venues under one name: the street-side '''Osteria del Sotto Sale''' offers relaxed al fresco dining with inventive Mediterranean fare — tuna tartare, seafood pastas, and Sicilian dishes with a creative twist. Nearby, the more refined '''Sotto Sale Ristorante''' blends traditional preservation techniques with global influences in an atmospheric dining room full of antique curios. Inspired by the salt flats of Trapani, it’s a sensory tribute to the island’s rhythms, best enjoyed slowly, by candlelight. Reservations strongly advised in summer. }} * {{eat | name = Scaliddre Ristorante Siciliano | alt = Scaliddre | lat = 37.93249 | long = 12.32951 | content = A welcoming Sicilian restaurant located a short walk from the main square. Chef‑owned Scaliddre offers refined seafood‑focused dishes—such as sea‑urchin pasta, smoked swordfish carbonara, tuna tartare, and fried octopus—served in a minimalist setting. Reviewers praise its fresh ingredients, creative flavours, gluten‑free options, and attentive service. Expect mid‑range to slightly upscale prices (~€30–€50 per person). Reservations recommended for dinner. }} * {{eat | name = Quello che c’è c’è | alt = Quello che c'è c'è Ristorante Mediterraneo | lat = 37.93007 | long = 12.32708 | url =https://www.ristorantefavignana.com/ | content = A welcoming, no‑frills seafood trattoria in the heart of town, Quello che c’è c’è (named roughly "What’s there, is there") offers honest Mediterranean cooking with daily fresh catch—like scorpion fish, sea bream, tuna tartare, and seafood pasta. Housed in a cosy, cove‑style dining room just steps from the port, it’s beloved for its friendly, local atmosphere and well‑crafted dishes. Open midday and evening; phone reservation advised. }} ==Drink== Evenings in Favignana revolve around the main square and its surrounding lanes, where cafés, gelaterias, and bars hum with a mellow crowd sipping spritzes, granitas, or local wine under fairy lights. Many places double as casual eateries, and late-night spots remain relaxed rather than raucous. Local specialities include artisanal gins and liqueurs made with island herbs or citrus. * {{drink | name = Bar New Albatros | alt = Albatros Bar | lat = 37.93114 | long = 12.32856 | content = A local favourite tucked behind the port in the main village, run by the ever-charming Gianluca. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic playlist, and house-made Favignana gin, this is the kind of place where evenings stretch late. Occasional light meals (like excellent ''pasta con le sarde'') complement the cocktails. Popular with both locals and in-the-know travellers. }} * {{drink | name = Camarillo Brillo | alt = Camarillo Brillo Bar | lat = 37.93122 | long = 12.32826 | url =http://www.camarillobrillo.it/ | content = A bohemian bar just off the main strip, ideal for a cold beer, a strong Negroni, and a bit of Favignana people-watching. Most nights you’ll find local jeweller Salvatore at the bar — always up for a chat and often happy to open his atelier across the street for curious visitors. A relaxed and friendly local hangout with a loyal following. }} ==Sleep== [[File:Favignana 02.JPG|thumb|300px|A quiet corner of Favignana’s waterfront.]] Accommodation on Favignana ranges from rustic villas to stylish boutique stays — many tucked among olive groves, old quarries, or steps from the sea. Most places are small and family-run, with a focus on slow living, fresh air, and quiet evenings under the stars. While options peak in summer and book up fast, you’ll find everything from vineyard apartments to historic farmhouses restored with care and character. * {{sleep | name=Calamoni di Favignana – Apartments & Wine Experience | url=https://calamoni.it/ | address=Contrada Calamoni, 91023 Favignana | lat=37.9227 | long=12.32777 | content=Peaceful and stylish self-catering apartments set in a vineyard estate just outside Favignana town. Offers a large villa and four comfortable apartments with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, premium bedding, and free Wi-Fi. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and fossil-rich red soils. }} * {{sleep | name = Dimora Cala del Pozzo | alt = Cala del Pozzo Boutique B&B | lat = 37.94150 | long = 12.29318 | url = https://www.dimoracaladelpozzo.it/en/home/ | content = An elegant boutique retreat housed in a restored late 19th‑century farmhouse, set on Favignana’s wild northwest coast near secluded Cala del Pozzo. With views toward Levanzo and Marettimo, the setting is quiet and deeply scenic. The eight rooms blend rustic charm with eco‑friendly design, many featuring private gardens or sea‑view terraces. Expect homegrown produce, yoga classes, optional vegetarian dining, and curated excursions. Free bikes, parking, Wi‑Fi, and a tranquil inner courtyard round out the relaxed, sustainable experience. }} * {{sleep | name = Il Baglio sull’Acqua | alt = Baglio sull'Acqua B&B | lat = 37.93117 | long = 12.34456 | url = https://www.ilbagliosullacqua.com/en/ | content = An atmospheric 19th‑century ''baglio'' (farmstead) carefully restored to preserve its historic charm. Surrounded by olive trees, an Arab‑inspired garden, and views of the sea, this peaceful retreat offers ten rooms — from deluxe doubles to suites — each individually styled with Sicilian touches and travel curios. Some have private gardens, others sea‑view terraces. Guests enjoy the tranquil setting near Cala Azzurra, complimentary bikes, and a relaxed, elegant vibe. }} ==Stay safe== Favignana is generally very safe, with low crime and a relaxed atmosphere. Most concerns are natural rather than man-made: * '''Sun''' exposure can be intense in summer — bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if cycling or hiking inland. * '''Swimming''' is usually safe, but many beaches are rocky and lack lifeguards. Wear water shoes, check sea conditions, and avoid diving into unknown waters. * '''Jellyfish''' (meduse) are occasionally spotted in warmer months — if stung, rinse with seawater (not fresh water) and seek help from a pharmacy if needed. * '''Boating''' around the island is popular, but seas can turn rough quickly. Stick with experienced operators and follow their safety guidance. * '''Cyclists''' should take care on gravel or coastal paths and watch for scooters on narrow village roads. Helmets are recommended, especially on e‑bikes. hvzkb9c100dvxl3edges4nxomw4q8aq 3 211782 5091097 5090649 2025-07-11T00:36:35Z Wilsons Abel Tasman 2329203 /* Don't tout */ Reply 5091097 wikitext text/x-wiki == [[Don't tout]] == Hello, Wilsons Abel Tasman! Thank you for contributing to Wikivoyage, but please note that one or more of your recent edits has been reverted as it appeared to be an attempt to use this site to advertise or promote a business or service. Wikivoyage is created by travellers ''for'' travellers, and while [[WV:Welcome, business owners|business owners and employees]] are welcome to contribute, use of this site for promotional purposes is not allowed. If you feel that your edits were incorrectly identified as promotional, '''please read Wikivoyage's [[WV:Don't tout|guidelines on identifying promotional edits]]'''. If, after reading that guideline, you ''still'' feel your edits were incorrectly removed, please use this [[WV:Using talk pages|talk page]] or the talk page of the article where your edit was removed to explain why your change was not promotional. Note that it is very important that you discuss your proposed change '''before''' re-adding it since repeated promotional edits can lead to a temporary block of your account's ability to edit Wikivoyage, and in serious cases the business in question may be blacklisted from Wikivoyage. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 10:11, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :I changed the reference to Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) because they do not directly work on predator control in Abel Tasman National Park. The Abel Tasman Birdsong Trust https://www.abeltasmanbirdsong.co.nz/ is a charitable trust working with Dept of Conservation and a team of volunteers who actively work on predator control in the park. :Would links to Wikipedia be more appropriate for Marahau https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C4%81rahau and Kaiteriteri https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaiteriteri Knowledge of these villages is essential for visitors trying to plan a trip to Abel Tasman National Park. :Under your "Do" section, there is a link to Abel Tasman Eco Tours. This links to the home page of a commercial operator in the national park. Therefore, I thought it appropriate to indicate there is the option to walk lodge-to-lodge on the Abel Tasman Coast track. Would this link be more useful https://www.abeltasman.co.nz/multiday-trips/walking-trips/ or this one https://www.abeltasman.co.nz/abel-tasman-national-park/things-to-do/civilised-adventures/ :Under the "Lodges" section, all links, except Awaroa Lodge are broken. I fixed links to our lodges but they are broken again. Can I please input the correct links. If not, all links should be removed in that section. :Meadowbank Homestead at Awaroa https://www.abeltasman.co.nz/abel-tasman-national-park/our-lodges/meadowbank-homestead-at-awaroa/ :Torrent Bay Lodge https://www.abeltasman.co.nz/abel-tasman-national-park/our-lodges/torrent-bay-lodge/ [[User:Wilsons Abel Tasman|Wilsons Abel Tasman]] ([[User talk:Wilsons Abel Tasman|talk]]) 00:36, 11 July 2025 (UTC) tvyuqszit4aq2m627hpsqmj25b9p35t 1 211783 5090755 5090713 2025-07-10T12:36:29Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Name and status */ re 5090755 wikitext text/x-wiki == Name and status == If we're keeping the article, we need to move it to [[Hồ Tràm]], but are we keeping it? If we don't, where would the listings be moved to? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:35, 10 July 2025 (UTC) : IMHO, this page is pure spam and touty language, and should be nuked with no remorse. But it's just my opinion. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 11:48, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::Now ''technically'' per policy it's supposed to go via [[WV:VfD]], but as I see it, for articles like these that don't really fall into blatant touting, it isn't technically meant to be speedily deleted. Maybe I'll propose what I've been wanting to propose for a while soon about unhelpable stub articles like this. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:36, 10 July 2025 (UTC) flc9bbfhyidr6qgsb9e6btqhb62ai61 5090839 5090755 2025-07-10T13:46:52Z SHB2000 2248002 /* Name and status */ re 5090839 wikitext text/x-wiki == Name and status == If we're keeping the article, we need to move it to [[Hồ Tràm]], but are we keeping it? If we don't, where would the listings be moved to? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:35, 10 July 2025 (UTC) : IMHO, this page is pure spam and touty language, and should be nuked with no remorse. But it's just my opinion. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 11:48, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::Now ''technically'' per policy it's supposed to go via [[WV:VfD]], but as I see it, for articles like these that don't really fall into blatant touting, it isn't technically meant to be speedily deleted. Maybe I'll propose what I've been wanting to propose for a while soon about unhelpable stub articles like this. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:36, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::Done at [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy#Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles]]. Were that policy to gain consensus, that would in theory allow us to delete this on July 16. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:46, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ru3t335jkhbow8k54a2thnwhtk4oewv 5090890 5090839 2025-07-10T14:58:36Z Ground Zero 1423298 5090890 wikitext text/x-wiki == Name and status == If we're keeping the article, we need to move it to [[Hồ Tràm]], but are we keeping it? If we don't, where would the listings be moved to? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:35, 10 July 2025 (UTC) : IMHO, this page is pure spam and touty language, and should be nuked with no remorse. But it's just my opinion. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 11:48, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::Now ''technically'' per policy it's supposed to go via [[WV:VfD]], but as I see it, for articles like these that don't really fall into blatant touting, it isn't technically meant to be speedily deleted. Maybe I'll propose what I've been wanting to propose for a while soon about unhelpable stub articles like this. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:36, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::Done at [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy#Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles]]. Were that policy to gain consensus, that would in theory allow us to delete this on July 16. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:46, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::::I'm willing to format and de-tout this. I think there is sone content that can be saved. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:58, 10 July 2025 (UTC) pntzdssewcr8rc346wcso1flk62ng81 5090894 5090890 2025-07-10T14:58:58Z Ground Zero 1423298 Ground Zero moved page [[Talk:Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] to [[Talk:Hồ Tràm]]: [[Wikivoyage:Naming conventions#Disambiguation|Unnecessary disambiguator]] 5090890 wikitext text/x-wiki == Name and status == If we're keeping the article, we need to move it to [[Hồ Tràm]], but are we keeping it? If we don't, where would the listings be moved to? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:35, 10 July 2025 (UTC) : IMHO, this page is pure spam and touty language, and should be nuked with no remorse. But it's just my opinion. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 11:48, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::Now ''technically'' per policy it's supposed to go via [[WV:VfD]], but as I see it, for articles like these that don't really fall into blatant touting, it isn't technically meant to be speedily deleted. Maybe I'll propose what I've been wanting to propose for a while soon about unhelpable stub articles like this. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:36, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::Done at [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy#Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles]]. Were that policy to gain consensus, that would in theory allow us to delete this on July 16. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:46, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::::I'm willing to format and de-tout this. I think there is sone content that can be saved. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:58, 10 July 2025 (UTC) pntzdssewcr8rc346wcso1flk62ng81 5090917 5090894 2025-07-10T15:24:02Z Ground Zero 1423298 5090917 wikitext text/x-wiki == Name and status == If we're keeping the article, we need to move it to [[Hồ Tràm]], but are we keeping it? If we don't, where would the listings be moved to? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:35, 10 July 2025 (UTC) : IMHO, this page is pure spam and touty language, and should be nuked with no remorse. But it's just my opinion. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 11:48, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::Now ''technically'' per policy it's supposed to go via [[WV:VfD]], but as I see it, for articles like these that don't really fall into blatant touting, it isn't technically meant to be speedily deleted. Maybe I'll propose what I've been wanting to propose for a while soon about unhelpable stub articles like this. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:36, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::Done at [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy#Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles]]. Were that policy to gain consensus, that would in theory allow us to delete this on July 16. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:46, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::::I'm willing to format and de-tout this. I think there is some content that can be saved. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:58, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::::That didn't take very long. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:24, 10 July 2025 (UTC) pm4ybqtjfy2rwsqwabjawztg8yc277s 5090976 5090917 2025-07-10T17:36:43Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* Name and status */ Reply 5090976 wikitext text/x-wiki == Name and status == If we're keeping the article, we need to move it to [[Hồ Tràm]], but are we keeping it? If we don't, where would the listings be moved to? [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 11:35, 10 July 2025 (UTC) : IMHO, this page is pure spam and touty language, and should be nuked with no remorse. But it's just my opinion. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 11:48, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::Now ''technically'' per policy it's supposed to go via [[WV:VfD]], but as I see it, for articles like these that don't really fall into blatant touting, it isn't technically meant to be speedily deleted. Maybe I'll propose what I've been wanting to propose for a while soon about unhelpable stub articles like this. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 12:36, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::Done at [[Wikivoyage talk:Deletion policy#Speedily deleting abandoned stub articles]]. Were that policy to gain consensus, that would in theory allow us to delete this on July 16. //<span style="font-family:BlinkMacSystemFont; font-size: 14px">[[User:SHB2000|<span style="color:#0b6487">shb</span>]] <small>([[User talk:SHB2000|t]] &#124; [[Special:Contributions/SHB2000|c]] &#124; [[m:User:SHB2000|m]])</small></span> 13:46, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::::I'm willing to format and de-tout this. I think there is some content that can be saved. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 14:58, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :::::That didn't take very long. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 15:24, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::::::Thank you very much for whipping the article into shape! [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:36, 10 July 2025 (UTC) 9qg9s5o3x8dt61uyatdhf338nhinonc 14 211785 5090791 2025-07-10T13:20:06Z Mx. Granger 132185 Created page with "{{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Bourgogne-Franche-Comté}}" 5090791 wikitext text/x-wiki {{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Bourgogne-Franche-Comté}} tvdsa3jexqpbuetof2wwstgrfaf50uz 14 211786 5090793 2025-07-10T13:21:03Z Mx. Granger 132185 Created page with "{{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Bourgogne-Franche-Comté}}" 5090793 wikitext text/x-wiki {{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Bourgogne-Franche-Comté}} tvdsa3jexqpbuetof2wwstgrfaf50uz 14 211787 5090799 2025-07-10T13:23:42Z Mx. Granger 132185 Created page with "{{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Bourgogne-Franche-Comté}}" 5090799 wikitext text/x-wiki {{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Bourgogne-Franche-Comté}} tvdsa3jexqpbuetof2wwstgrfaf50uz 14 211788 5090808 2025-07-10T13:32:25Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090808 wikitext text/x-wiki {{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Bourgogne-Franche-Comté}} tvdsa3jexqpbuetof2wwstgrfaf50uz 14 211789 5090814 2025-07-10T13:35:18Z Mx. Granger 132185 Created page with "{{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Normandy}}" 5090814 wikitext text/x-wiki {{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Normandy}} kbba3pywasljx5iic9de7dzhgz84tmj 14 211790 5090818 2025-07-10T13:37:23Z Mx. Granger 132185 Created page with "{{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Normandy}}" 5090818 wikitext text/x-wiki {{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Normandy}} kbba3pywasljx5iic9de7dzhgz84tmj 14 211791 5090827 2025-07-10T13:40:29Z Mx. Granger 132185 fix breadcrumbs 5090827 wikitext text/x-wiki {{RegionCat}} {{IsPartOf|Normandy}} kbba3pywasljx5iic9de7dzhgz84tmj 0 211792 5090893 2025-07-10T14:58:58Z Ground Zero 1423298 Ground Zero moved page [[Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] to [[Hồ Tràm]]: [[Wikivoyage:Naming conventions#Disambiguation|Unnecessary disambiguator]] 5090893 wikitext text/x-wiki #REDIRECT [[Hồ Tràm]] bmickqbna88dvnr7qwxxeyoel22h4qy 1 211793 5090895 2025-07-10T14:58:58Z Ground Zero 1423298 Ground Zero moved page [[Talk:Hồ Tràm / Vietnam]] to [[Talk:Hồ Tràm]]: [[Wikivoyage:Naming conventions#Disambiguation|Unnecessary disambiguator]] 5090895 wikitext text/x-wiki #REDIRECT [[Talk:Hồ Tràm]] 43xvpj64mrw2ot0v561h5ltdtljlj9t 2 211794 5090930 2025-07-10T15:49:50Z Wrightcyber 2329224 Making into page 5090930 wikitext text/x-wiki American IT & Cybersecurity Technician living in Ohio. I enjoy learning about cultures, languages, history, and technology. New but active contributor on en:Wikivoyage. ==Places I've been== * {{flag|US}} - '''[[United States]]''' - [[Ohio]], [[Kentucky]], [[Indiana]], [[West Virginia]], [[Michigan]], [[Virginia]], [[Washington, D.C.]], [[Maryland]], [[Tennessee]], [[New York]], [[North Carolina]] and [[Pennsylvania]]. * {{flag|Canada}} - '''[[Canada]]''' - [[Toronto]], [[Markham]], [[Windsor, Ontario]], and [[Oshawa]]. gwmnyzeqnylc59mc41wbrov1vjhm1ry 5090954 5090930 2025-07-10T16:37:03Z Wrightcyber 2329224 Added language babel listing 5090954 wikitext text/x-wiki {{#babel:en-N|ko-2|de-1}} American IT & Cybersecurity Technician living in Ohio. I enjoy learning about cultures, languages, history, and technology. New but active contributor on en:Wikivoyage. ==Places I've been== * {{flag|US}} - '''[[United States]]''' - [[Ohio]], [[Kentucky]], [[Indiana]], [[West Virginia]], [[Michigan]], [[Virginia]], [[Washington, D.C.]], [[Maryland]], [[Tennessee]], [[New York]], [[North Carolina]] and [[Pennsylvania]]. * {{flag|Canada}} - '''[[Canada]]''' - [[Toronto]], [[Markham]], [[Windsor, Ontario]], and [[Oshawa]]. 2iopeay80w48ncxiwvvocw1sysmfedl 5091086 5090954 2025-07-10T23:17:20Z Wrightcyber 2329224 Added Projects Section 5091086 wikitext text/x-wiki {{#babel:en-N|ko-2|de-1}} American IT & Cybersecurity Technician living in Ohio. I enjoy learning about cultures, languages, history, and technology. New but active contributor on en:Wikivoyage. ==Places I've been== * {{flag|US}} - '''[[United States]]''' - [[Ohio]], [[Kentucky]], [[Indiana]], [[West Virginia]], [[Michigan]], [[Virginia]], [[Washington, D.C.]], [[Maryland]], [[Tennessee]], [[New York]], [[North Carolina]] and [[Pennsylvania]]. * {{flag|Canada}} - '''[[Canada]]''' - [[Toronto]], [[Markham]], [[Windsor, Ontario]], and [[Oshawa]]. ==Projects== * [[Wapakoneta]] - Updating Wapakoneta. * '''Western Ohio''' - Making edits on the communities surrounding Western Ohio where I grew up and spent 21+ years. * '''Indian Lake''' - Currently working on an article in the Indian Lake, OH region. fu0toyr6vzjv6rshwecfmthod4v85zz 5091087 5091086 2025-07-10T23:20:33Z Wrightcyber 2329224 Added Page Banner 5091087 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Apollo 15 flag, rover, LM, Irwin.jpg|caption=}} {{user page}} {{#babel:en-N|ko-2|de-1}} American IT & Cybersecurity Technician living in Ohio. I enjoy learning about cultures, languages, history, and technology. New but active contributor on en:Wikivoyage. ==Places I've been== * {{flag|US}} - '''[[United States]]''' - [[Ohio]], [[Kentucky]], [[Indiana]], [[West Virginia]], [[Michigan]], [[Virginia]], [[Washington, D.C.]], [[Maryland]], [[Tennessee]], [[New York]], [[North Carolina]] and [[Pennsylvania]]. * {{flag|Canada}} - '''[[Canada]]''' - [[Toronto]], [[Markham]], [[Windsor, Ontario]], and [[Oshawa]]. ==Projects== * [[Wapakoneta]] - Updating Wapakoneta. * '''Western Ohio''' - Making edits on the communities surrounding Western Ohio where I grew up and spent 21+ years. * '''Indian Lake''' - Currently working on an article in the Indian Lake, OH region. 3ryytl61ytm36fik7tqvgipzny70rzs 5091088 5091087 2025-07-10T23:21:49Z Wrightcyber 2329224 Fixed positioning 5091088 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Apollo 15 flag, rover, LM, Irwin.jpg|origin=center|caption=Celebrating Apollo 15}} {{user page}} {{#babel:en-N|ko-2|de-1}} American IT & Cybersecurity Technician living in Ohio. I enjoy learning about cultures, languages, history, and technology. New but active contributor on en:Wikivoyage. ==Places I've been== * {{flag|US}} - '''[[United States]]''' - [[Ohio]], [[Kentucky]], [[Indiana]], [[West Virginia]], [[Michigan]], [[Virginia]], [[Washington, D.C.]], [[Maryland]], [[Tennessee]], [[New York]], [[North Carolina]] and [[Pennsylvania]]. * {{flag|Canada}} - '''[[Canada]]''' - [[Toronto]], [[Markham]], [[Windsor, Ontario]], and [[Oshawa]]. ==Projects== * [[Wapakoneta]] - Updating Wapakoneta. * '''Western Ohio''' - Making edits on the communities surrounding Western Ohio where I grew up and spent 21+ years. * '''Indian Lake''' - Currently working on an article in the Indian Lake, OH region. d3b1ei9fi3hbsej34ancaay2w4ht2ii 5091132 5091088 2025-07-11T01:38:42Z Wrightcyber 2329224 Added Articles section. 5091132 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Apollo 15 flag, rover, LM, Irwin.jpg|origin=center|caption=Celebrating Apollo 15}} {{user page}} {{#babel:en-N|ko-2|de-1}} American IT & Cybersecurity Technician living in Ohio. I enjoy learning about cultures, languages, history, and technology. New but active contributor on en:Wikivoyage. ==Places I've been== * {{flag|US}} - '''[[United States]]''' - [[Ohio]], [[Kentucky]], [[Indiana]], [[West Virginia]], [[Michigan]], [[Virginia]], [[Washington, D.C.]], [[Maryland]], [[Tennessee]], [[New York]], [[North Carolina]] and [[Pennsylvania]]. * {{flag|Canada}} - '''[[Canada]]''' - [[Toronto]], [[Markham]], [[Windsor, Ontario]], and [[Oshawa]]. ==Projects== * [[Wapakoneta]] - Updating Wapakoneta. * [[West Central Ohio]] - Making edits on the communities surrounding Western Ohio where I grew up and spent 21+ years. * [[Indian Lake Region (Ohio)]] - Currently working on an article in the Indian Lake, OH region. ==Articles== === Articles I Created === * [[Indian Lake Region (Ohio)]] — A detailed travel guide to Indian Lake and its surrounding communities in Western Ohio. === Articles I Contributed To === * Wapakoneta — Added detailed information about the city, including local attractions, eateries, and more. j2lezf4sa3org00qcla0q9mu40gbxmk 5091133 5091132 2025-07-11T01:39:11Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Articles I Contributed To */ Fixed link 5091133 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Apollo 15 flag, rover, LM, Irwin.jpg|origin=center|caption=Celebrating Apollo 15}} {{user page}} {{#babel:en-N|ko-2|de-1}} American IT & Cybersecurity Technician living in Ohio. I enjoy learning about cultures, languages, history, and technology. New but active contributor on en:Wikivoyage. ==Places I've been== * {{flag|US}} - '''[[United States]]''' - [[Ohio]], [[Kentucky]], [[Indiana]], [[West Virginia]], [[Michigan]], [[Virginia]], [[Washington, D.C.]], [[Maryland]], [[Tennessee]], [[New York]], [[North Carolina]] and [[Pennsylvania]]. * {{flag|Canada}} - '''[[Canada]]''' - [[Toronto]], [[Markham]], [[Windsor, Ontario]], and [[Oshawa]]. ==Projects== * [[Wapakoneta]] - Updating Wapakoneta. * [[West Central Ohio]] - Making edits on the communities surrounding Western Ohio where I grew up and spent 21+ years. * [[Indian Lake Region (Ohio)]] - Currently working on an article in the Indian Lake, OH region. ==Articles== === Articles I Created === * [[Indian Lake Region (Ohio)]] — A detailed travel guide to Indian Lake and its surrounding communities in Western Ohio. === Articles I Contributed To === * [[Wapakoneta]] — Added detailed information about the city, including local attractions, eateries, and more. obovugsavc9oi3og11lljujmagv4yfu 3 211795 5090961 2025-07-10T16:47:16Z Ibaman 195012 /* Don't tout */ new section 5090961 wikitext text/x-wiki == [[Don't tout]] == Hello, NetPro33! Thank you for contributing to Wikivoyage, but please note that one or more of your recent edits has been reverted as it appeared to be an attempt to use this site to advertise or promote a business or service. Wikivoyage is created by travellers ''for'' travellers, and while [[WV:Welcome, business owners|business owners and employees]] are welcome to contribute, use of this site for promotional purposes is not allowed. If you feel that your edits were incorrectly identified as promotional, '''please read Wikivoyage's [[WV:Don't tout|guidelines on identifying promotional edits]]'''. If, after reading that guideline, you ''still'' feel your edits were incorrectly removed, please use this [[WV:Using talk pages|talk page]] or the talk page of the article where your edit was removed to explain why your change was not promotional. Note that it is very important that you discuss your proposed change '''before''' re-adding it since repeated promotional edits can lead to a temporary block of your account's ability to edit Wikivoyage, and in serious cases the business in question may be blacklisted from Wikivoyage. Also read [[WV:Goals and non-goals]], [[WV:Tone]] and [[WV:External links#What not to link to]]. Thanks for contributing, again. [[User:Ibaman|Ibaman]] ([[User talk:Ibaman|talk]]) 16:47, 10 July 2025 (UTC) o7gwvg55lse9tnp0qvg5h5z09hc3t5e 3 211796 5090964 2025-07-10T16:53:02Z Ground Zero 1423298 /* Wapakoneta */ new section 5090964 wikitext text/x-wiki == Wapakoneta == Thanks for all of the added content and updates for this article. It is much more useful for readers now. I have adjusted the formatting to Wikivoyage style. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 16:53, 10 July 2025 (UTC) mrfqrce1jpvvxzuxu7ujr9t3kq1v82i 5090966 5090964 2025-07-10T16:54:52Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Wapakoneta */ Reply 5090966 wikitext text/x-wiki == Wapakoneta == Thanks for all of the added content and updates for this article. It is much more useful for readers now. I have adjusted the formatting to Wikivoyage style. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 16:53, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :Thanks so much! I’m still getting the hang of Wikivoyage formatting, so I really appreciate your edits and guidance. [[User:Wrightcyber|Wrightcyber]] ([[User talk:Wrightcyber|talk]]) 16:54, 10 July 2025 (UTC) fdgql065smxfnsqkpeo8qj41m72ae0z 5091245 5090966 2025-07-11T08:25:46Z 92.21.137.132 /* Wapakoneta */ Reply 5091245 wikitext text/x-wiki == Wapakoneta == Thanks for all of the added content and updates for this article. It is much more useful for readers now. I have adjusted the formatting to Wikivoyage style. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 16:53, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :Thanks so much! I’m still getting the hang of Wikivoyage formatting, so I really appreciate your edits and guidance. [[User:Wrightcyber|Wrightcyber]] ([[User talk:Wrightcyber|talk]]) 16:54, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::There's a lot of formatting rules to understand. Please note that telwphone numbers must have country code and must not have brackets. -- [[Special:Contributions/92.21.137.132|92.21.137.132]] 08:25, 11 July 2025 (UTC) 4rlg5cy61ofl6izo2989zknm6lguh63 5091246 5091245 2025-07-11T08:26:07Z 92.21.137.132 5091246 wikitext text/x-wiki == Wapakoneta == Thanks for all of the added content and updates for this article. It is much more useful for readers now. I have adjusted the formatting to Wikivoyage style. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 16:53, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :Thanks so much! I’m still getting the hang of Wikivoyage formatting, so I really appreciate your edits and guidance. [[User:Wrightcyber|Wrightcyber]] ([[User talk:Wrightcyber|talk]]) 16:54, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::There's a lot of formatting rules to understand. Please note that telephone numbers must have country code and must not have brackets. -- [[Special:Contributions/92.21.137.132|92.21.137.132]] 08:25, 11 July 2025 (UTC) oajkmw0k3querh2aia0m77vt4e7mu7e 5091402 5091246 2025-07-11T11:58:09Z Wrightcyber 2329224 /* Wapakoneta */ Reply 5091402 wikitext text/x-wiki == Wapakoneta == Thanks for all of the added content and updates for this article. It is much more useful for readers now. I have adjusted the formatting to Wikivoyage style. [[User:Ground Zero|Ground Zero]] ([[User talk:Ground Zero|talk]]) 16:53, 10 July 2025 (UTC) :Thanks so much! I’m still getting the hang of Wikivoyage formatting, so I really appreciate your edits and guidance. [[User:Wrightcyber|Wrightcyber]] ([[User talk:Wrightcyber|talk]]) 16:54, 10 July 2025 (UTC) ::There's a lot of formatting rules to understand. Please note that telephone numbers must have country code and must not have brackets. -- [[Special:Contributions/92.21.137.132|92.21.137.132]] 08:25, 11 July 2025 (UTC) :::Thanks for the info! Still digging through them [[User:Wrightcyber|Wrightcyber]] ([[User talk:Wrightcyber|talk]]) 11:58, 11 July 2025 (UTC) ko2a16h0obyybpp4mowo1idck7whv9b 3 211797 5090984 2025-07-10T17:44:51Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Created page with "{{subst:tout}} ~~~~" 5090984 wikitext text/x-wiki Hello, Martin4073! Thank you for contributing to Wikivoyage, but please note that one or more of your recent edits has been reverted as it appeared to be an attempt to use this site to advertise or promote a business or service. Wikivoyage is created by travellers ''for'' travellers, and while [[WV:Welcome, business owners|business owners and employees]] are welcome to contribute, use of this site for promotional purposes is not allowed. If you feel that your edits were incorrectly identified as promotional, '''please read Wikivoyage's [[WV:Don't tout|guidelines on identifying promotional edits]]'''. If, after reading that guideline, you ''still'' feel your edits were incorrectly removed, please use this [[WV:Using talk pages|talk page]] or the talk page of the article where your edit was removed to explain why your change was not promotional. Note that it is very important that you discuss your proposed change '''before''' re-adding it since repeated promotional edits can lead to a temporary block of your account's ability to edit Wikivoyage, and in serious cases the business in question may be blacklisted from Wikivoyage. [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:44, 10 July 2025 (UTC) 7j4zllnamq4llz4t3z5g7k5vnhx5hnr 3 211798 5090988 2025-07-10T17:50:29Z Ikan Kekek 36420 /* Welcome, and a question about your deletion */ new section 5090988 wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome, and a question about your deletion == Hello, 2001:818:E7A2:5300:94D8:8AEF:AF36:4B1E! [[Wikivoyage:Welcome, newcomers|Welcome]] to [[Wikivoyage:About|Wikivoyage]]. To help get you started contributing, we've created a [[Wikivoyage:Tips for new contributors|tips for new contributors]] page, full of helpful links about [[Wikivoyage:policies and guidelines|policies and guidelines]] and [[Wikivoyage:Manual of style|style]], as well as some important information on [[Wikivoyage:Copyleft|copyleft]] and basic stuff like [[Wikivoyage:How to edit a page|how to edit a page]]. If you need help, check out [[Wikivoyage:Help]], or post a message in the [[Wikivoyage:travellers' pub|travellers' pub]]. By the way, have you considered creating an account here? While you can absolutely keep contributing as an anonymous user, it promises [[Wikivoyage:Why register|a bunch of benefits]], and no obligations. About [https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Antananarivo&curid=1269&diff=5090863&oldid=5068810 this deletion]: You're right that "people can make up their own mind how to deal with strays", but you did not provide any alternative for dealing with threats from stray dogs. Just deleting suggestions without offering any of your own is unhelpful, because we are now alerting people of a threat and leaving them completely to their own devices in finding out whether or how to deal with it. So I think you should either provide some reasonable suggestions or we'll have to restore the previous text. Best, [[User:Ikan Kekek|Ikan Kekek]] ([[User talk:Ikan Kekek|talk]]) 17:50, 10 July 2025 (UTC) 4b8x9b1j0y4sa8ems0qt92i0ice5329 0 211799 5091029 2025-07-10T19:34:32Z Mrkstvns 144844 initial content for new article 5091029 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|PN Cajas banner.jpg|pgname=El Cajas National Park}} '''[http://www.parque-nacional-cajas.org/ El Cajas National Park''' (''Parque Nacional Cajas'') is a protected natural area in the [[Andean Highlands (Ecuador)|Andean Highlands]] of [[Ecuador]]. It is mountainous terrain with grassy plains and 270 lakes that were formed by the last receding ice age. [[File:Ama la Vida - Flickr - AR PN ANDES CUENCA RESERVAS CAJAS FAUNA 151 (14771450955) (2).jpg|thumb|Llamas in Cajas National Park]] ==Understand== The park covers an area of about 28,500 hectares. ===History=== El Cajas was declared a [[Ecuador national parks|national park]] in November 1996. In August 2002, it was designated a [[Ramsar sites|Ramsar wetland]]. 28 archaeological sites within the park bear witness to human habitation in the area for at least the past 1,000 years. Some of the sites are definitely pre-Inca, some are Inca, and a few from settlements established after the Spanish conquest. During the colonial era, livestock were raised on the grasses of the highland fields. ===Landscape=== The park is mountainous with jagged peaks, sheer cliffs, and slopes that give way to hilly, grassy areas of vegetation described as ''paramo''. The highest point in the park is the peak of ''Cerro Arquitectos'' at 4,450 meters. The park is dotted with cold water lakes. The largest is ''Laguna Luspa'' which is almost 70 meters deep. Several rivers have their headwaters in the park, including Rio Tomebamba, Rio Yanuncay, Rio Balao and Rio Cañar. The park lies on the continental divide and two of the rivers flow west towards the Pacific while the other two flow east toward the Amazon. ===Flora and fauna=== [[File:Cuniculus_paca.jpg|thumb|Paca]] The cool, humid climate of the park is perfect for grasses, which make up the dominant vegetation of the parameo area. Several different kinds of grasses grow here, including some endemic varieties. The most common species is ''straw grass''. At higher elevations (above 3,300 meters), ''queñua'' (or ''birch paper'') becomes common. An endemic plant called ''flower of the Andes'' can be found in the park. 157 bird species have been cataloged in the park, including the magnificent Andean condor. One of the coolest birds in the park is the ''giant hummingbird'', which feeds on agave plants. Over 40 mammal species live in the park. Most visible are the llamas but probably more numerous are smaller mammals and rodents, including weasels, skunks, foxes, oppossums, coatimundis, pacas, rabbits and porcupines. A couple of endemic species that you're unlikely to encounter anywhere other than this park are the ''Cajas water mouse'' and the ''Tate shrew oppossum''. Puma are also found in the park. There are also plenty of reptiles and amphibians, particularly various species of frogs found around the lakes and lagoons. ===Climate=== ==Get in== The park is about 30 km west of [[Cuenca]] via highway 582. By car, it's a direct route with scenic mountain views. The trip will probably take 30 minutes. The easiest way to make the trip is to just take a local taxi. The fare will likely be US$10-15. [[File:Cajas.entry.jpg|thumb|Eastern entrance to Cajas National Park]] ===By bus=== Transporte Occidental operates frequent buses from Cuenca. The fare will be about US$1 for the half-hour trip. The bus will let you off at the eastern entrance ranger station. ==Fees and permits== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== ===Camping=== ===Backcountry=== ==Stay safe== ==Go next== * [[Cuenca]] * [[Riobamba]] * [[Sangay National Park]] {{IsPartOf|Andean Highlands (Ecuador)}} {{outlinepark}} {{geo|-2.8198|-79.2595}} f3knhetku8943mnmldoohkb28pvkplt 5091030 5091029 2025-07-10T19:35:21Z Mrkstvns 144844 fix 5091030 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|PN Cajas banner.jpg|pgname=El Cajas National Park}} '[http://www.parque-nacional-cajas.org/ El Cajas National Park] (''Parque Nacional Cajas'') is a protected natural area in the [[Andean Highlands (Ecuador)|Andean Highlands]] of [[Ecuador]]. It is mountainous terrain with grassy plains and 270 lakes that were formed by the last receding ice age. [[File:Ama la Vida - Flickr - AR PN ANDES CUENCA RESERVAS CAJAS FAUNA 151 (14771450955) (2).jpg|thumb|Llamas in Cajas National Park]] ==Understand== The park covers an area of about 28,500 hectares. ===History=== El Cajas was declared a [[Ecuador national parks|national park]] in November 1996. In August 2002, it was designated a [[Ramsar sites|Ramsar wetland]]. 28 archaeological sites within the park bear witness to human habitation in the area for at least the past 1,000 years. Some of the sites are definitely pre-Inca, some are Inca, and a few from settlements established after the Spanish conquest. During the colonial era, livestock were raised on the grasses of the highland fields. ===Landscape=== The park is mountainous with jagged peaks, sheer cliffs, and slopes that give way to hilly, grassy areas of vegetation described as ''paramo''. The highest point in the park is the peak of ''Cerro Arquitectos'' at 4,450 meters. The park is dotted with cold water lakes. The largest is ''Laguna Luspa'' which is almost 70 meters deep. Several rivers have their headwaters in the park, including Rio Tomebamba, Rio Yanuncay, Rio Balao and Rio Cañar. The park lies on the continental divide and two of the rivers flow west towards the Pacific while the other two flow east toward the Amazon. ===Flora and fauna=== [[File:Cuniculus_paca.jpg|thumb|Paca]] The cool, humid climate of the park is perfect for grasses, which make up the dominant vegetation of the parameo area. Several different kinds of grasses grow here, including some endemic varieties. The most common species is ''straw grass''. At higher elevations (above 3,300 meters), ''queñua'' (or ''birch paper'') becomes common. An endemic plant called ''flower of the Andes'' can be found in the park. 157 bird species have been cataloged in the park, including the magnificent Andean condor. One of the coolest birds in the park is the ''giant hummingbird'', which feeds on agave plants. Over 40 mammal species live in the park. Most visible are the llamas but probably more numerous are smaller mammals and rodents, including weasels, skunks, foxes, oppossums, coatimundis, pacas, rabbits and porcupines. A couple of endemic species that you're unlikely to encounter anywhere other than this park are the ''Cajas water mouse'' and the ''Tate shrew oppossum''. Puma are also found in the park. There are also plenty of reptiles and amphibians, particularly various species of frogs found around the lakes and lagoons. ===Climate=== ==Get in== The park is about 30 km west of [[Cuenca]] via highway 582. By car, it's a direct route with scenic mountain views. The trip will probably take 30 minutes. The easiest way to make the trip is to just take a local taxi. The fare will likely be US$10-15. [[File:Cajas.entry.jpg|thumb|Eastern entrance to Cajas National Park]] ===By bus=== Transporte Occidental operates frequent buses from Cuenca. The fare will be about US$1 for the half-hour trip. The bus will let you off at the eastern entrance ranger station. ==Fees and permits== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== ===Camping=== ===Backcountry=== ==Stay safe== ==Go next== * [[Cuenca]] * [[Riobamba]] * [[Sangay National Park]] {{IsPartOf|Andean Highlands (Ecuador)}} {{outlinepark}} {{geo|-2.8198|-79.2595}} 4q63sylsvwxe4v19cfkzozrz4dnhy3g 5091031 5091030 2025-07-10T19:36:11Z Mrkstvns 144844 5091031 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|PN Cajas banner.jpg|pgname=El Cajas National Park}} ''' El Cajas National Park''' (''Parque Nacional Cajas'') is a protected natural area in the [[Andean Highlands (Ecuador)|Andean Highlands]] of [[Ecuador]]. It is mountainous terrain with grassy plains and 270 lakes that were formed by the last receding ice age. [[File:Ama la Vida - Flickr - AR PN ANDES CUENCA RESERVAS CAJAS FAUNA 151 (14771450955) (2).jpg|thumb|Llamas in Cajas National Park]] ==Understand== The park covers an area of about 28,500 hectares. ===History=== El Cajas was declared a [[Ecuador national parks|national park]] in November 1996. In August 2002, it was designated a [[Ramsar sites|Ramsar wetland]]. 28 archaeological sites within the park bear witness to human habitation in the area for at least the past 1,000 years. Some of the sites are definitely pre-Inca, some are Inca, and a few from settlements established after the Spanish conquest. During the colonial era, livestock were raised on the grasses of the highland fields. ===Landscape=== The park is mountainous with jagged peaks, sheer cliffs, and slopes that give way to hilly, grassy areas of vegetation described as ''paramo''. The highest point in the park is the peak of ''Cerro Arquitectos'' at 4,450 meters. The park is dotted with cold water lakes. The largest is ''Laguna Luspa'' which is almost 70 meters deep. Several rivers have their headwaters in the park, including Rio Tomebamba, Rio Yanuncay, Rio Balao and Rio Cañar. The park lies on the continental divide and two of the rivers flow west towards the Pacific while the other two flow east toward the Amazon. ===Flora and fauna=== [[File:Cuniculus_paca.jpg|thumb|Paca]] The cool, humid climate of the park is perfect for grasses, which make up the dominant vegetation of the parameo area. Several different kinds of grasses grow here, including some endemic varieties. The most common species is ''straw grass''. At higher elevations (above 3,300 meters), ''queñua'' (or ''birch paper'') becomes common. An endemic plant called ''flower of the Andes'' can be found in the park. 157 bird species have been cataloged in the park, including the magnificent Andean condor. One of the coolest birds in the park is the ''giant hummingbird'', which feeds on agave plants. Over 40 mammal species live in the park. Most visible are the llamas but probably more numerous are smaller mammals and rodents, including weasels, skunks, foxes, oppossums, coatimundis, pacas, rabbits and porcupines. A couple of endemic species that you're unlikely to encounter anywhere other than this park are the ''Cajas water mouse'' and the ''Tate shrew oppossum''. Puma are also found in the park. There are also plenty of reptiles and amphibians, particularly various species of frogs found around the lakes and lagoons. ===Climate=== ==Get in== The park is about 30 km west of [[Cuenca]] via highway 582. By car, it's a direct route with scenic mountain views. The trip will probably take 30 minutes. The easiest way to make the trip is to just take a local taxi. The fare will likely be US$10-15. [[File:Cajas.entry.jpg|thumb|Eastern entrance to Cajas National Park]] ===By bus=== Transporte Occidental operates frequent buses from Cuenca. The fare will be about US$1 for the half-hour trip. The bus will let you off at the eastern entrance ranger station. ==Fees and permits== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ===Lodging=== ===Camping=== ===Backcountry=== ==Stay safe== ==Go next== * [[Cuenca]] * [[Riobamba]] * [[Sangay National Park]] {{IsPartOf|Andean Highlands (Ecuador)}} {{outlinepark}} {{geo|-2.8198|-79.2595}} 6tyb0atha8hsgf8lkgstzl2sqiekhtw 0 211800 5091064 2025-07-10T21:28:16Z A Sulaiman Z 2265795 Created page with "{{pagebanner}} '''Tafawa Balewa''' is a Local Government Area (LGA) in the southwestern part of [[Bauchi State]], Nigeria. The area is named after Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, who hailed from this region. Tafawa Balewa is a quiet rural area with rich history and diverse ethnic groups, especially Sayawa and Fulani. ==Understand== Tafawa Balewa is historically significant because of its association with Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. The LGA..." 5091064 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} '''Tafawa Balewa''' is a Local Government Area (LGA) in the southwestern part of [[Bauchi State]], Nigeria. The area is named after Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, who hailed from this region. Tafawa Balewa is a quiet rural area with rich history and diverse ethnic groups, especially Sayawa and Fulani. ==Understand== Tafawa Balewa is historically significant because of its association with Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. The LGA includes farmlands, rivers, and hilly landscapes. It is home to several ethnic groups including the Sayawa, Fulani, Jarawa, and Hausa, with Christianity and Islam being the major religions. Farming is the main economic activity. Crops such as maize, millet, potatoes, groundnuts, and vegetables are commonly grown. The area experiences a mild savanna climate, with a rainy season between May and October. ==Get in== * '''By road''': Tafawa Balewa can be accessed via road from [[Bauchi city]] (about 70–90 km away). You can reach it through Dass or Bogoro depending on your direction. * '''From Jos''': Travellers coming from Plateau State can reach Tafawa Balewa through the Toro–Dass–Bogoro route. * '''By air''': The closest airport is Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport in Bauchi. From there, continue by road. ==Get around== * '''Motorcycles (okada)''': Common and flexible for local travel. * '''Taxis or shared cars''': Available along main roads and during market days. * '''Walking''': Ideal for moving within town and nearby hamlets. ==See== * '''Memorial sites of Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa''': Located in or near the area where he was born and buried. * '''Tafawa Balewa Hills''': Natural rocky hills with scenic views and cultural value. * '''Traditional villages''': Explore Sayawa and Fulani settlements to experience local architecture and lifestyle. * '''Local churches and mosques''': Reflecting religious diversity and community life. ==Do== * '''Attend market days''': A lively experience where locals trade farm produce, textiles, and livestock. * '''Hiking and sightseeing''' in the hills and countryside. * '''Cultural visits''': Learn about Sayawa customs and history. ==Buy== * '''Local grains''': Maize, millet, guinea corn. * '''Tubers and vegetables''': Irish potatoes, carrots, onions, and peppers. * '''Local crafts''': Mats, calabashes, and leather items. * '''Textiles''': Woven or second-hand clothes in markets. avj77g0kgjwxye1sd91vx2hf4v56e6d 5091073 5091064 2025-07-10T22:10:44Z A Sulaiman Z 2265795 /* Buy */ 5091073 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} '''Tafawa Balewa''' is a Local Government Area (LGA) in the southwestern part of [[Bauchi State]], Nigeria. The area is named after Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, who hailed from this region. Tafawa Balewa is a quiet rural area with rich history and diverse ethnic groups, especially Sayawa and Fulani. ==Understand== Tafawa Balewa is historically significant because of its association with Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. The LGA includes farmlands, rivers, and hilly landscapes. It is home to several ethnic groups including the Sayawa, Fulani, Jarawa, and Hausa, with Christianity and Islam being the major religions. Farming is the main economic activity. Crops such as maize, millet, potatoes, groundnuts, and vegetables are commonly grown. The area experiences a mild savanna climate, with a rainy season between May and October. ==Get in== * '''By road''': Tafawa Balewa can be accessed via road from [[Bauchi city]] (about 70–90 km away). You can reach it through Dass or Bogoro depending on your direction. * '''From Jos''': Travellers coming from Plateau State can reach Tafawa Balewa through the Toro–Dass–Bogoro route. * '''By air''': The closest airport is Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport in Bauchi. From there, continue by road. ==Get around== * '''Motorcycles (okada)''': Common and flexible for local travel. * '''Taxis or shared cars''': Available along main roads and during market days. * '''Walking''': Ideal for moving within town and nearby hamlets. ==See== * '''Memorial sites of Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa''': Located in or near the area where he was born and buried. * '''Tafawa Balewa Hills''': Natural rocky hills with scenic views and cultural value. * '''Traditional villages''': Explore Sayawa and Fulani settlements to experience local architecture and lifestyle. * '''Local churches and mosques''': Reflecting religious diversity and community life. ==Do== * '''Attend market days''': A lively experience where locals trade farm produce, textiles, and livestock. * '''Hiking and sightseeing''' in the hills and countryside. * '''Cultural visits''': Learn about Sayawa customs and history. ==Buy== * '''Local grains''': Maize, millet, guinea corn. * '''Tubers and vegetables''': Irish potatoes, carrots, onions, and peppers. * '''Local crafts''': Mats, calabashes, and leather items. * '''Textiles''': Woven or second-hand clothes in markets. ==Eat== * '''Irish potatoes with sauce''': A popular local dish due to fertile farming conditions. * '''Tuwo and miyar kuka/taushe''': Staple Hausa dishes. * '''Beans and moi moi''': Cooked in local homes and sold in markets. * '''Waina and miyan yakuwa''': Found during festivities or weekends. * '''Fura da nono''': Common among Fulani settlements. ==Drink== * '''Zobo and kunun gyada''': Local beverages made from hibiscus and groundnut milk. * '''Bottled water and soft drinks''': Widely available in shops. * '''Palm wine or burukutu''': May be found in some Christian Sayawa communities, though not publicly sold. ==Sleep== * '''Local guesthouses in Tafawa Balewa town''': Offer basic rooms with beds and fans. * '''Stay in Bauchi city''': For more comfort and access to hotels and amenities. ==Connect== * '''Mobile networks''': MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile are active in the area. * '''Internet access''': Mostly through mobile data. * '''Electricity''': Unreliable in rural areas; generators and solar panels used frequently. * '''Water supply''': Boreholes and streams serve local needs. * '''Healthcare''': Primary health centers and clinics are present. * '''Postal code''': 740102. ==Go next== * '''[[Dass]]''' – A nearby town known for rock formations and Sayawa heritage. * [[Bogoro]]''' – Another Sayawa-dominated LGA with similar culture and terrain. * '''Bauchi city''' – The state capital with more developed services and accommodation. * '''[[Jos]]''' – Capital of Plateau State, a short journey south with scenic plateaus and cultural variety. {{IsPartOf|Bauchi State}} {{geo|9.8372|10.2833}} 5hf94t70n6izhhzsfmpky3n8w22h2in 5091092 5091073 2025-07-10T23:44:58Z 92.21.137.132 Fixing lint errors [[Special:LintErrors/missing-end-tag]]. Add bolding start '''' to pair with existing end. 5091092 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner}} '''Tafawa Balewa''' is a Local Government Area (LGA) in the southwestern part of [[Bauchi State]], Nigeria. The area is named after Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, who hailed from this region. Tafawa Balewa is a quiet rural area with rich history and diverse ethnic groups, especially Sayawa and Fulani. ==Understand== Tafawa Balewa is historically significant because of its association with Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. The LGA includes farmlands, rivers, and hilly landscapes. It is home to several ethnic groups including the Sayawa, Fulani, Jarawa, and Hausa, with Christianity and Islam being the major religions. Farming is the main economic activity. Crops such as maize, millet, potatoes, groundnuts, and vegetables are commonly grown. The area experiences a mild savanna climate, with a rainy season between May and October. ==Get in== * '''By road''': Tafawa Balewa can be accessed via road from [[Bauchi city]] (about 70–90 km away). You can reach it through Dass or Bogoro depending on your direction. * '''From Jos''': Travellers coming from Plateau State can reach Tafawa Balewa through the Toro–Dass–Bogoro route. * '''By air''': The closest airport is Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport in Bauchi. From there, continue by road. ==Get around== * '''Motorcycles (okada)''': Common and flexible for local travel. * '''Taxis or shared cars''': Available along main roads and during market days. * '''Walking''': Ideal for moving within town and nearby hamlets. ==See== * '''Memorial sites of Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa''': Located in or near the area where he was born and buried. * '''Tafawa Balewa Hills''': Natural rocky hills with scenic views and cultural value. * '''Traditional villages''': Explore Sayawa and Fulani settlements to experience local architecture and lifestyle. * '''Local churches and mosques''': Reflecting religious diversity and community life. ==Do== * '''Attend market days''': A lively experience where locals trade farm produce, textiles, and livestock. * '''Hiking and sightseeing''' in the hills and countryside. * '''Cultural visits''': Learn about Sayawa customs and history. ==Buy== * '''Local grains''': Maize, millet, guinea corn. * '''Tubers and vegetables''': Irish potatoes, carrots, onions, and peppers. * '''Local crafts''': Mats, calabashes, and leather items. * '''Textiles''': Woven or second-hand clothes in markets. ==Eat== * '''Irish potatoes with sauce''': A popular local dish due to fertile farming conditions. * '''Tuwo and miyar kuka/taushe''': Staple Hausa dishes. * '''Beans and moi moi''': Cooked in local homes and sold in markets. * '''Waina and miyan yakuwa''': Found during festivities or weekends. * '''Fura da nono''': Common among Fulani settlements. ==Drink== * '''Zobo and kunun gyada''': Local beverages made from hibiscus and groundnut milk. * '''Bottled water and soft drinks''': Widely available in shops. * '''Palm wine or burukutu''': May be found in some Christian Sayawa communities, though not publicly sold. ==Sleep== * '''Local guesthouses in Tafawa Balewa town''': Offer basic rooms with beds and fans. * '''Stay in Bauchi city''': For more comfort and access to hotels and amenities. ==Connect== * '''Mobile networks''': MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile are active in the area. * '''Internet access''': Mostly through mobile data. * '''Electricity''': Unreliable in rural areas; generators and solar panels used frequently. * '''Water supply''': Boreholes and streams serve local needs. * '''Healthcare''': Primary health centers and clinics are present. * '''Postal code''': 740102. ==Go next== * '''[[Dass]]''' – A nearby town known for rock formations and Sayawa heritage. * '''[[Bogoro]]''' – Another Sayawa-dominated LGA with similar culture and terrain. * '''Bauchi city''' – The state capital with more developed services and accommodation. * '''[[Jos]]''' – Capital of Plateau State, a short journey south with scenic plateaus and cultural variety. {{IsPartOf|Bauchi State}} {{geo|9.8372|10.2833}} 3pu95f56gxuwrhhhu6uqv2dgee68peo 0 211801 5091129 2025-07-11T01:30:30Z Wrightcyber 2329224 Published the Indian Lake Region (Ohio) page. This encompasses Indian Lake and it surrounding communities (a tourist hotspot in Western Ohio) 5091129 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Russells-point-ohio-indian-lake-arch.jpg|caption=Russells Point Arch at Indian Lake|pgname=Indian Lake Region (Ohio)}} '''Indian Lake''' is a region in [[Logan County]], [[Ohio]] noted for being home to the Indian Lake reservoir which brings in thousands of visitors a year for water-related activities. ==Understand == ===Local information === * [https://www.indianlake.com/] Indian Lake Region website. ==Counties== * [[Logan County]] – Indian Lake and all its surrounding communities are located entirely within Logan County. [[File:Aerial Indian Lake Ohio.jpg|thumb|center|Aerial view of Indian Lake, showing the numerous islands and shoreline development.]] ==Villages== *'''Lakeview''' – A small village directly on the lake, Lakeview is a gateway to boating, jet skiing, camping, and summer fun. *'''Russells Point''' – The heart of lakefront activity, with marinas, restaurants, and access to the Indian Lake spillway. * ''' Huntsville''' – A nearby inland village just southeast of the lake, often included in the broader Indian Lake region. *''' Chippewa Park''' - A census-designated place to the north of Indian Lake. The place features many marinas, businesses, islands, as well as campgrounds. *'''Avondale''' - A small settlement featuring camping and marinas. == Talk == Most residents speak English. Expect a small-town Midwestern dialect, and friendly, casual conversation. In summer, many tourists visit from nearby cities like Columbus, Dayton, and Cincinnati. ==Islands== The Indian Lake region has over 30 islands with a great substantial of them visitable by car by the use of bridge. [[File:One of the Islands, Indian Lake, Ohio - DPLA - 3ef02a6557aa6da41331911bf37106bc (page 1).jpg|thumb|center|One of the many islands on Indian Lake.]] *'''Orchard''' - Residential with Marinas. *'''Wolf''' - Residential. *'''Chippewa''' - Wooded island. *'''Pew''' - Wooded with a boat dock. *'''Crane Town''' - Condominiums. *''' Tecumseh''' - Residential with Marinas. *'''Seminole''' - Residential with a restaurant. *'''Shawnee''' - Residential with some businesses. *''' Governors''' - Residential. *''' Lake Ridge''' - Residential with some businesses. *''' Fox Island State Park''' - Playground. *''' Neely''' - Residential. *''' Bellefontaine''' *''' Paradise''' - Parking lot. *''' Bank''' - Wooded island. *'''Turkeyfoot''' *'''Sassafras Point''' *''' Artist''' - Residential. *''' Turtle Shell''' - Residential. *''' Big Walnut Isle''' *'''Blackhawk''' *'''Crystal Beach''' *''' Ewing''' *'''Fawn''' *'''Pony''' *'''Red Oak''' *'''Richard''' *'''Snow''' *'''Winnewauken''' *'''O’Connor’s Point''' *'''Long Island''' *'''Waterbury''' ==Get in== {{mapframe|40.4991|-83.8950|zoom=12|staticmap=0}} ===By plane=== * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport (AXV) | lat = 40.49557 | long = -84.30178 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219, New Knoxville, OH | directions = About {{mi|23}} west of Indian Lake | content = A [[general aviation]] airport serving private and charter flights. | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} * {{listing | type = go | name = Bellefontaine Regional Airport (EDJ) | lat = 40.37048 | long = -83.81773 | url = https://www.ci.bellefontaine.oh.us/ | wikidata = Q1656096 | alt = {{IATA|EDJ}} | address = 3100 OH-47, Bellefontaine, OH | directions = About {{mi|16}} south of Indian Lake | content = A [[general aviation]] airport primarily used by private aircraft. | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Indian Lake is served by two nearby general aviation airports: **Bellefontaine Regional Airport** to the south and **Neil Armstrong Airport** to the west. For commercial flights, the nearest major airports are: * **Dayton International Airport** ({{IATA|DAY}}), about a 1 hr 10 min drive southwest. * **John Glenn Columbus International Airport** ({{IATA|CMH}}), about a 1 hr 20 min drive southeast. ===By car=== The Indian Lake region is directly accessible via US-33, which connects the area to both [[Bellefontaine (Ohio)]] to the east and [[Wapakoneta]] to the west. The lake’s main access points are through the villages of Lakeview, Russells Point, and Huntsville, all located just off US-33. Parking is readily available at state park entrances, marinas, and businesses throughout the lakefront area. The largest village is Russells Point, located just south of the lake. Taking US-33 will take you straight through Russells Point, Lakeview, and Huntsville. In order to reach the Northern villages of Indian Lake you can take OH-235 off of US-33 in Lakeview which will take you through Chippewa Park and Avondale. ===By bike=== Lakeview features the Indian Lake Bike Trail which is a biking path alongside the lake. This can be found just off of OH-366 and there are many parking lots located next to the biking path to leave vehicles. This path takes you from the Old Field Beach all the way to Russells Point in the east roughly 2.5 miles. There are also numerous trails in the area for road and mountain biking. ==Get around== '''Russells Point''' features a major commercial district in the city center. This includes several marinas and restaurants, ranging from fast food chains like McDonald's to local favorites such as the Landing Tavern, LuLu's at the Lake, and the Donut Shop. '''Lakeview''' lies southeast of the lake along US-33. It's home to various restaurants, campgrounds, marinas, and local businesses. A focal point of the town is Old Field Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the area. Nearby are numerous campgrounds, including Indian Hollow Campground. Lakeview also hosts several events throughout the year, including the popular Fourth of July fireworks show, *"Light Up The Lake"*, held on July 5th between Lakeview and Russells Point. Other events include the *Indian Lake Boat Show* (late February to early March), *Christmas in the Village of Lakeview* (early December), and the *Maple Syrup Festival* (mid-March). '''Chippewa Park''' is located directly north of the lake and features the Indian Lake State Park Campground, multiple marinas, and lakeside businesses. Notable spots include the Tilton Hilton, Acheson's Resort, Shakes at the Lake, and Froggy's at the Lake. Community events often take place at the local Eagles lodge. '''Avondale''' lies east of Chippewa Park and north of the lake. Like Chippewa, it offers boating and fishing opportunities and is primarily residential. ==See== [[File:Indian Lake, Huntsville, Ohio - DPLA - 35308771a825e528182306ee540e4ecd (page 1).jpg|thumb|right|Historic postcard view of Indian Lake in Huntsville, Ohio]] * {{listing | type=see | name=Sandy Beach Bridge | alt= | url=http://www.indianlakeohiohistoricalsociety.org/sandy-beach-bridge-.html | email= | address=near Bridgeview Ct | lat=40.47300639386112 | long=-83.89438863177126 | directions= | lastedit=2025-07-25 | content= Walking Bridge cutting through Russells Point popular for photos. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Indian Lake | alt= | url=https://www.indianlake.com/ | email= | address=Indian Lake, OH | lat=40.50087705762644 | long=-83.88901491518996 | directions= | lastedit=2025-07-25 | content= Indian Lake is a reservoir encompassing the area that is 5,104 acres big. It is the host of many events and is popular for fishing, boating, and camping. The area includes over 30 islands. }} [[File:Indian Lake spillway.jpg|thumb|right|The Indian Lake Spillway, a popular spot for fishing and photos.]] * {{see | name=Indian Lake Spillway | alt= | url= | email= | address=8323 OH-366, Russells Point | lat=40.467546978072264 | long=-83.87547759391245 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Spillway. Popular for pictures and fishing. }} ==Do== Popular activities include jet skiing, disc golf, boating, and scenic photography from the Sandy Beach Bridge or the Indian Lake Spillway. * {{do | name=Lakeview Harbor Boat Ramp | alt= | url= | email= | address=Intersection of OH-235 &, OH-366 | lat=40.48436681782014 | long=-83.91962786961547 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Popular boat harbor in Lakeview. }} * {{do | name=Spend-A-Day Marina | alt= | url= | email= | address=9481 OH-708, Russells Point | lat=40.4769601841722 | long=-83.88514725523366 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Boat dealer that offers daily rentals for people interested in boating at the lake. }} * {{do | name=Indian Lake State Park: Moundwood Marina and Picnic Area | alt= | url=https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/indian-lake-state-park | email= | address=7998 OH-368, Huntsville | lat=40.47977231893039 | long=-83.86158414576221 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Public park with a picnic area and marina. }} * {{do | name=Indian Lake State Park | alt= | url=https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/indian-lake-state-park | email= | address=13156 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51380224425504 | long=-83.89845975464556 | directions= | phone=9378432717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Indian Lake and a bunch of trails. Spots to fish, swim, and boat docks/ marinas. }} * {{do | name=Indian Lake Dog Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=14359 OH-235, Lakeview (Avondale) | lat=40.52385041272967 | long=-83.8775599836493 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{do | name=Old Field Beach | alt= | url=https://www.indianlake.com/parks-recreation | email= | address=11252 OH-235, Lakeview | lat=40.500589059027824 | long=-83.91779049451765 | directions= | phone=9378432717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Beach for swimming. }} * {{do | name=Old Field Disc Golf Course | alt= | url= | email= | address=11252 OH-235, Lakeview| lat=40.50143822865704 | long=-83.91306030780869 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Disc golf course. }} * {{do | name=Blackhawk Shelter | alt= | url= | email= | address=11504 OH-235, Lakeview| lat=40.504050209841715 | long=-83.9156437018818 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Park with a marina and fishing area. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=RV Wholesalers | alt= | url=https://www.rvwholesalers.com/ | email= | address=530 N Main St, Lakeview | lat=40.49267135725657 | long=-83.92793407542239 | directions= | phone=8778774494 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=RV Dealer selling RVs and Campers. }} * {{buy | name=The Costume Shop | alt= | url=https://thecostumeshops.com/ | email= | address=315 E Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.47071074722976 | long=-83.89181399720032 | directions= | phone=9375971804 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Local shop designing and selling costumes for school projects, musicals, Halloween, etc. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=The Landing Tavern | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/juleslanding/ | email= | address=235 E Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.47104278502171 | long=-83.8926351861265 | directions= | phone=9378433253 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=LuLu's at the Lake | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/groups/471882088255854/ | email= | address=156 E Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.471502619255816 | long=-83.89413281136562 | directions= | phone=9378101004 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Cassano's Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=https://cassanosindianlake.com/ | email= | address=424 E Main St, Russells Point| lat=40.46944279219348 | long=-83.890359797937 | directions= | phone=9378432501 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Donut Shop and Bakery on the Lake, LLC | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057611975048# | email= | address=104 W Main St, Russells Point| lat=40.47231088935189 | long=-83.89538013528524 | directions= | phone=9378425580 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Includes a pool. }} * {{eat | name=Jac N Do's Pizza | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/JacNDosIndianLake/ | email= | address=302 W Main St, Russells Point| lat=40.47617768034286 | long=-83.89699910662819 | directions= | phone=9378432222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Playa Cocina & Cantina, Indian Lake | alt= | url=https://laplayaatthelake.com/ | email= | address=305 E Harrison St, Lakeview| lat=40.483521678186044 | long=-83.92026182891072 | directions= | phone=9376330401 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Squack's Snack Shack | alt= | url=https://www.squackssnackshack.com/ | email= | address=320 Midway Ave, Lakeview| lat=40.48999772588376 | long=-83.9226289769388 | directions= | phone=9375394554 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Buckeye at The Lake | alt= | url=https://buckeyeatthelake.com/ | email= | address=11977 OH-235, Lakeview| lat=40.51168924223035 | long=-83.91798825706009 | directions= | phone=9376330068 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Tilton Hilton | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/TiltonHilton1977/ | email= | address=10861 Township Rd 293, Lakeview (Avondale)| lat=40.51606544190177 | long=-83.86796925985827 | directions= | phone=4198605354 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Froggy's at the Lake | alt= | url=https://www.froggys-online.com/ | email= | address=11065 Co Rd 293, Lakeview (Avondale)| lat=40.51817021118729 | long=-83.86540473969666 | directions= | phone=9378425580 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Includes a pool. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Gathering Grounds Coffee Shop | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/ilcccoffeeshop | email= | address=337 E Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.470428193654094 | long=-83.89113367414944 | directions= | phone=9378424002 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Indian Lake Brewing Company | alt= | url=https://indianlakebrewing.com/ | email= | address=184 W Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.47481010615957 | long=-83.896579463122 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Shakes at the lake | alt= | url=https://order.toasttab.com/online/shakes-at-the-lake-13305-state-route | email= | address=13305 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51948867576809 | long=-83.89764820632858 | directions= | phone=9375979114 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Brown Bean | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/BBLCoffee | email= | address=13627 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.52012881033312 | long=-83.89190674292371 | directions= | phone=9376330484 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Cranberry Resort Waterfront Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://cranberryresort.net/ | email= | address=9667 OH-368, Huntsville (Seminole & Shawnee Islands) | lat=40.4976417840302 | long=-83.86936300754567 | directions= | phone=9378424947 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Indian Lake State Park Campground | alt= | url=https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/indian-lake-state-park-campground | email= | address=13156 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51492414961958 | long=-83.89963758425706 | directions= | phone=9378433553 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Cobblestone Hotel & Suites - Russells Point at Indian Lake | alt= | url=https://staycobblestone.com/oh/indian-lake/ | email= | address=211 Lincoln Blvd, Russells Point | lat=40.467946171080584 | long=-83.88848870576771 | directions= | phone=9378100402 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Remy's Waterfront Retreat | alt= | url=https://www.rentbyowner.com/property/remy-s-waterfront-retreat-w-dock/HA-3117065789 | email= | address=341 W Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.47725716315418 | long=-83.89772849174396 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Vacation Rentals. }} * {{sleep | name=Frontier Cottages | alt= | url=http://frontiercottagesohio.com/ | email= | address=10991 OH-366, Lakeview | lat=40.48261467360406 | long=-83.91380683067904 | directions= | phone=9376220361 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indian Hallow Campground | alt= | url=https://indianhallowcampground.com/ | email= | address=10601 OH-235, Lakeview | lat=40.492765424666764 | long=-83.92221823879179 | directions= | phone=9378432027 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Frosty's RV Park & Campground | alt= | url= | email= | address=12901 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51860892929405 | long=-83.90637382681687 | directions= | phone=(419) 234-4441 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. Visit or call to book. }} * {{sleep | name=Parkside Camping | alt= | url=https://parksidecamping.com/ | email= | address=13285 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51904879080803 | long=-83.89873177832634 | directions= | phone=4192432141 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Indian Trails Resort | alt= | url=https://indiantrailsrvresort.com/ | email= | address=13793 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.523936968223 | long=-83.88944336645028 | directions= | phone=4193025315 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Smuggler’s Cove RV Family Camping | alt= | url=https://www.smugglerscoverv.com/ | email= | address=11539 Lake Dr, Lakeview (Avondale) | lat=40.52253238878287 | long=-83.87700450765102 | directions= | phone=9379354399 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=BayPoint Villas | alt= | url= | email= | address=11475 Township Rd 293, Lakeview (Avondale) | lat=40.522790598262404 | long=-83.86535010544884 | directions= | phone=4192304524 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= RV Park. }} * {{sleep | name=Logan Landing RV Park | alt= | url=https://www.loganlandingindianlake.com/ | email= | address=11195-11255 Township Rd 293, Lakeview (Avondale) | lat=40.523811754437396 | long=-83.86258327640547 | directions= | phone=4193038525 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= RV Park. }} * {{sleep | name=Geronimo Camp | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Geronimo-Camp/275068099245084 | email= | address=15650 OH-235, Belle Center (Avondale area) | lat=40.52695904463434 | long=-83.85435800946323 | directions= | phone=9376330697 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Flip Flop Cove Campground | alt= | url=https://www.flipflopcovecampground.com/ | email= | address=15882 OH-235, Belle Center (Avondale area) | lat=40.52788167025108 | long=-83.85194552413829 | directions= | phone=4193059255 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Logan County Library (Lakeview Branch) | alt= | url=https://www.logancountylibraries.org/ | email= | address=165 E Lake St Unit B, Lakeview | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=9378424144| tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Indian Lake Yacht Club | alt= | url=https://www.indianlakeyachtclub.com/?q=node/1 | email= | address=246 Chase Ave, Russells Point | lat=40.475077243565835 | long=-83.89115087521941 | directions= | phone=9373903525| tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Indian Lake Eagles | alt= | url=https://indianlakeohio.com/eagles.htm | email= | address=14011 Collingwood Ave, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.514867295699894 | long=-83.8837721783958 | directions= | phone=9378424790| tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== * **Crime:** Indian Lake is in a low crime area, exercise normal precautions. Note: Crime does ramp up during festivals. * **Water safety:** Always wear a life jacket when boating or participating in water sports. Follow local boating regulations and be aware of weather conditions, as storms can develop quickly on the lake. * **Swimming:** Swim only in designated swimming areas like Old Field Beach. Avoid swimming alone and supervise children at all times. * **Wildlife:** Be cautious of local wildlife such as snakes or waterfowl, and do not feed or approach wild animals. * **Weather:** Ohio weather can change rapidly, especially near the lake. Keep an eye on weather alerts and seek shelter if thunderstorms approach. * **Emergency services:** In case of emergency, dial 911. Russells Point and Lakeview both have police and fire departments that serve the Indian Lake area. * **Respect private property:** Many islands and shoreline areas are privately owned. Access only public parks and designated areas. ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} * [[Wapakoneta]] – Birthplace of Neil Armstrong, with a space museum and quaint downtown. * [[Lima (Ohio)]] – A regional hub with a restored theater and classic Midwestern charm. * [[Bellefontaine (Ohio)]] – Home to the highest point in Ohio and a revitalized downtown. {{routebox | image1=US 33.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Wapakoneta, Ohio|Wapakoneta]] | minorl1=Jct. [[OH 235|OH-235]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Marysville, Ohio|Marysville]] | minorr1=[[Bellefontaine, Ohio|Bellefontaine]] | image2=OH 235.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=S | majorl2=[[Bellefontaine, Ohio|Bellefontaine]] | minorl2=Jct. [[US 33|US-33]] | directionr2=N | majorr2=[[Indian Lake Region (Ohio)|Indian Lake]] | minorr2=[[Lakeview, Ohio|Lakeview]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5000|-83.8900|region:US-OH_type:landmark|display=title}} {{usablecity}} 6ve6w3fdnftrle5omceej5fqu1gx6gx 5091243 5091129 2025-07-11T08:22:54Z 92.21.137.132 Fix phone number format 5091243 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Russells-point-ohio-indian-lake-arch.jpg|caption=Russells Point Arch at Indian Lake|pgname=Indian Lake Region (Ohio)}} '''Indian Lake''' is a region in [[Logan County]], [[Ohio]] noted for being home to the Indian Lake reservoir which brings in thousands of visitors a year for water-related activities. ==Understand == ===Local information === * [https://www.indianlake.com/] Indian Lake Region website. ==Counties== * [[Logan County]] – Indian Lake and all its surrounding communities are located entirely within Logan County. [[File:Aerial Indian Lake Ohio.jpg|thumb|center|Aerial view of Indian Lake, showing the numerous islands and shoreline development.]] ==Villages== *'''Lakeview''' – A small village directly on the lake, Lakeview is a gateway to boating, jet skiing, camping, and summer fun. *'''Russells Point''' – The heart of lakefront activity, with marinas, restaurants, and access to the Indian Lake spillway. * ''' Huntsville''' – A nearby inland village just southeast of the lake, often included in the broader Indian Lake region. *''' Chippewa Park''' - A census-designated place to the north of Indian Lake. The place features many marinas, businesses, islands, as well as campgrounds. *'''Avondale''' - A small settlement featuring camping and marinas. == Talk == Most residents speak English. Expect a small-town Midwestern dialect, and friendly, casual conversation. In summer, many tourists visit from nearby cities like Columbus, Dayton, and Cincinnati. ==Islands== The Indian Lake region has over 30 islands with a great substantial of them visitable by car by the use of bridge. [[File:One of the Islands, Indian Lake, Ohio - DPLA - 3ef02a6557aa6da41331911bf37106bc (page 1).jpg|thumb|center|One of the many islands on Indian Lake.]] *'''Orchard''' - Residential with Marinas. *'''Wolf''' - Residential. *'''Chippewa''' - Wooded island. *'''Pew''' - Wooded with a boat dock. *'''Crane Town''' - Condominiums. *''' Tecumseh''' - Residential with Marinas. *'''Seminole''' - Residential with a restaurant. *'''Shawnee''' - Residential with some businesses. *''' Governors''' - Residential. *''' Lake Ridge''' - Residential with some businesses. *''' Fox Island State Park''' - Playground. *''' Neely''' - Residential. *''' Bellefontaine''' *''' Paradise''' - Parking lot. *''' Bank''' - Wooded island. *'''Turkeyfoot''' *'''Sassafras Point''' *''' Artist''' - Residential. *''' Turtle Shell''' - Residential. *''' Big Walnut Isle''' *'''Blackhawk''' *'''Crystal Beach''' *''' Ewing''' *'''Fawn''' *'''Pony''' *'''Red Oak''' *'''Richard''' *'''Snow''' *'''Winnewauken''' *'''O’Connor’s Point''' *'''Long Island''' *'''Waterbury''' ==Get in== {{mapframe|40.4991|-83.8950|zoom=12|staticmap=0}} ===By plane=== * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport (AXV) | lat = 40.49557 | long = -84.30178 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219, New Knoxville, OH | directions = About {{mi|23}} west of Indian Lake | content = A [[general aviation]] airport serving private and charter flights. | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} * {{listing | type = go | name = Bellefontaine Regional Airport (EDJ) | lat = 40.37048 | long = -83.81773 | url = https://www.ci.bellefontaine.oh.us/ | wikidata = Q1656096 | alt = {{IATA|EDJ}} | address = 3100 OH-47, Bellefontaine, OH | directions = About {{mi|16}} south of Indian Lake | content = A [[general aviation]] airport primarily used by private aircraft. | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Indian Lake is served by two nearby general aviation airports: **Bellefontaine Regional Airport** to the south and **Neil Armstrong Airport** to the west. For commercial flights, the nearest major airports are: * **Dayton International Airport** ({{IATA|DAY}}), about a 1 hr 10 min drive southwest. * **John Glenn Columbus International Airport** ({{IATA|CMH}}), about a 1 hr 20 min drive southeast. ===By car=== The Indian Lake region is directly accessible via US-33, which connects the area to both [[Bellefontaine (Ohio)]] to the east and [[Wapakoneta]] to the west. The lake’s main access points are through the villages of Lakeview, Russells Point, and Huntsville, all located just off US-33. Parking is readily available at state park entrances, marinas, and businesses throughout the lakefront area. The largest village is Russells Point, located just south of the lake. Taking US-33 will take you straight through Russells Point, Lakeview, and Huntsville. In order to reach the Northern villages of Indian Lake you can take OH-235 off of US-33 in Lakeview which will take you through Chippewa Park and Avondale. ===By bike=== Lakeview features the Indian Lake Bike Trail which is a biking path alongside the lake. This can be found just off of OH-366 and there are many parking lots located next to the biking path to leave vehicles. This path takes you from the Old Field Beach all the way to Russells Point in the east roughly 2.5 miles. There are also numerous trails in the area for road and mountain biking. ==Get around== '''Russells Point''' features a major commercial district in the city center. This includes several marinas and restaurants, ranging from fast food chains like McDonald's to local favorites such as the Landing Tavern, LuLu's at the Lake, and the Donut Shop. '''Lakeview''' lies southeast of the lake along US-33. It's home to various restaurants, campgrounds, marinas, and local businesses. A focal point of the town is Old Field Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the area. Nearby are numerous campgrounds, including Indian Hollow Campground. Lakeview also hosts several events throughout the year, including the popular Fourth of July fireworks show, *"Light Up The Lake"*, held on July 5th between Lakeview and Russells Point. Other events include the *Indian Lake Boat Show* (late February to early March), *Christmas in the Village of Lakeview* (early December), and the *Maple Syrup Festival* (mid-March). '''Chippewa Park''' is located directly north of the lake and features the Indian Lake State Park Campground, multiple marinas, and lakeside businesses. Notable spots include the Tilton Hilton, Acheson's Resort, Shakes at the Lake, and Froggy's at the Lake. Community events often take place at the local Eagles lodge. '''Avondale''' lies east of Chippewa Park and north of the lake. Like Chippewa, it offers boating and fishing opportunities and is primarily residential. ==See== [[File:Indian Lake, Huntsville, Ohio - DPLA - 35308771a825e528182306ee540e4ecd (page 1).jpg|thumb|right|Historic postcard view of Indian Lake in Huntsville, Ohio]] * {{listing | type=see | name=Sandy Beach Bridge | alt= | url=http://www.indianlakeohiohistoricalsociety.org/sandy-beach-bridge-.html | email= | address=near Bridgeview Ct | lat=40.47300639386112 | long=-83.89438863177126 | directions= | lastedit=2025-07-25 | content= Walking Bridge cutting through Russells Point popular for photos. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Indian Lake | alt= | url=https://www.indianlake.com/ | email= | address=Indian Lake, OH | lat=40.50087705762644 | long=-83.88901491518996 | directions= | lastedit=2025-07-25 | content= Indian Lake is a reservoir encompassing the area that is 5,104 acres big. It is the host of many events and is popular for fishing, boating, and camping. The area includes over 30 islands. }} [[File:Indian Lake spillway.jpg|thumb|right|The Indian Lake Spillway, a popular spot for fishing and photos.]] * {{see | name=Indian Lake Spillway | alt= | url= | email= | address=8323 OH-366, Russells Point | lat=40.467546978072264 | long=-83.87547759391245 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Spillway. Popular for pictures and fishing. }} ==Do== Popular activities include jet skiing, disc golf, boating, and scenic photography from the Sandy Beach Bridge or the Indian Lake Spillway. * {{do | name=Lakeview Harbor Boat Ramp | alt= | url= | email= | address=Intersection of OH-235 &, OH-366 | lat=40.48436681782014 | long=-83.91962786961547 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Popular boat harbor in Lakeview. }} * {{do | name=Spend-A-Day Marina | alt= | url= | email= | address=9481 OH-708, Russells Point | lat=40.4769601841722 | long=-83.88514725523366 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Boat dealer that offers daily rentals for people interested in boating at the lake. }} * {{do | name=Indian Lake State Park: Moundwood Marina and Picnic Area | alt= | url=https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/indian-lake-state-park | email= | address=7998 OH-368, Huntsville | lat=40.47977231893039 | long=-83.86158414576221 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Public park with a picnic area and marina. }} * {{do | name=Indian Lake State Park | alt= | url=https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/indian-lake-state-park | email= | address=13156 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51380224425504 | long=-83.89845975464556 | directions= | phone=9378432717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Indian Lake and a bunch of trails. Spots to fish, swim, and boat docks/ marinas. }} * {{do | name=Indian Lake Dog Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=14359 OH-235, Lakeview (Avondale) | lat=40.52385041272967 | long=-83.8775599836493 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{do | name=Old Field Beach | alt= | url=https://www.indianlake.com/parks-recreation | email= | address=11252 OH-235, Lakeview | lat=40.500589059027824 | long=-83.91779049451765 | directions= | phone=9378432717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Beach for swimming. }} * {{do | name=Old Field Disc Golf Course | alt= | url= | email= | address=11252 OH-235, Lakeview| lat=40.50143822865704 | long=-83.91306030780869 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Disc golf course. }} * {{do | name=Blackhawk Shelter | alt= | url= | email= | address=11504 OH-235, Lakeview| lat=40.504050209841715 | long=-83.9156437018818 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Park with a marina and fishing area. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=RV Wholesalers | alt= | url=https://www.rvwholesalers.com/ | email= | address=530 N Main St, Lakeview | lat=40.49267135725657 | long=-83.92793407542239 | directions= | phone=8778774494 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=RV Dealer selling RVs and Campers. }} * {{buy | name=The Costume Shop | alt= | url=https://thecostumeshops.com/ | email= | address=315 E Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.47071074722976 | long=-83.89181399720032 | directions= | phone=9375971804 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Local shop designing and selling costumes for school projects, musicals, Halloween, etc. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=The Landing Tavern | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/juleslanding/ | email= | address=235 E Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.47104278502171 | long=-83.8926351861265 | directions= | phone=9378433253 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=LuLu's at the Lake | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/groups/471882088255854/ | email= | address=156 E Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.471502619255816 | long=-83.89413281136562 | directions= | phone=9378101004 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Cassano's Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=https://cassanosindianlake.com/ | email= | address=424 E Main St, Russells Point| lat=40.46944279219348 | long=-83.890359797937 | directions= | phone=9378432501 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Donut Shop and Bakery on the Lake, LLC | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057611975048# | email= | address=104 W Main St, Russells Point| lat=40.47231088935189 | long=-83.89538013528524 | directions= | phone=9378425580 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Includes a pool. }} * {{eat | name=Jac N Do's Pizza | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/JacNDosIndianLake/ | email= | address=302 W Main St, Russells Point| lat=40.47617768034286 | long=-83.89699910662819 | directions= | phone=9378432222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Playa Cocina & Cantina, Indian Lake | alt= | url=https://laplayaatthelake.com/ | email= | address=305 E Harrison St, Lakeview| lat=40.483521678186044 | long=-83.92026182891072 | directions= | phone=9376330401 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Squack's Snack Shack | alt= | url=https://www.squackssnackshack.com/ | email= | address=320 Midway Ave, Lakeview| lat=40.48999772588376 | long=-83.9226289769388 | directions= | phone=9375394554 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Buckeye at The Lake | alt= | url=https://buckeyeatthelake.com/ | email= | address=11977 OH-235, Lakeview| lat=40.51168924223035 | long=-83.91798825706009 | directions= | phone=9376330068 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Tilton Hilton | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/TiltonHilton1977/ | email= | address=10861 Township Rd 293, Lakeview (Avondale)| lat=40.51606544190177 | long=-83.86796925985827 | directions= | phone=4198605354 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Froggy's at the Lake | alt= | url=https://www.froggys-online.com/ | email= | address=11065 Co Rd 293, Lakeview (Avondale)| lat=40.51817021118729 | long=-83.86540473969666 | directions= | phone=9378425580 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Includes a pool. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Gathering Grounds Coffee Shop | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/ilcccoffeeshop | email= | address=337 E Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.470428193654094 | long=-83.89113367414944 | directions= | phone=9378424002 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Indian Lake Brewing Company | alt= | url=https://indianlakebrewing.com/ | email= | address=184 W Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.47481010615957 | long=-83.896579463122 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Shakes at the lake | alt= | url=https://order.toasttab.com/online/shakes-at-the-lake-13305-state-route | email= | address=13305 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51948867576809 | long=-83.89764820632858 | directions= | phone=9375979114 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Brown Bean | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/BBLCoffee | email= | address=13627 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.52012881033312 | long=-83.89190674292371 | directions= | phone=9376330484 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Cranberry Resort Waterfront Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://cranberryresort.net/ | email= | address=9667 OH-368, Huntsville (Seminole & Shawnee Islands) | lat=40.4976417840302 | long=-83.86936300754567 | directions= | phone=9378424947 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Indian Lake State Park Campground | alt= | url=https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/indian-lake-state-park-campground | email= | address=13156 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51492414961958 | long=-83.89963758425706 | directions= | phone=9378433553 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Cobblestone Hotel & Suites - Russells Point at Indian Lake | alt= | url=https://staycobblestone.com/oh/indian-lake/ | email= | address=211 Lincoln Blvd, Russells Point | lat=40.467946171080584 | long=-83.88848870576771 | directions= | phone=9378100402 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Remy's Waterfront Retreat | alt= | url=https://www.rentbyowner.com/property/remy-s-waterfront-retreat-w-dock/HA-3117065789 | email= | address=341 W Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.47725716315418 | long=-83.89772849174396 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Vacation Rentals. }} * {{sleep | name=Frontier Cottages | alt= | url=http://frontiercottagesohio.com/ | email= | address=10991 OH-366, Lakeview | lat=40.48261467360406 | long=-83.91380683067904 | directions= | phone=9376220361 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indian Hallow Campground | alt= | url=https://indianhallowcampground.com/ | email= | address=10601 OH-235, Lakeview | lat=40.492765424666764 | long=-83.92221823879179 | directions= | phone=9378432027 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Frosty's RV Park & Campground | alt= | url= | email= | address=12901 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51860892929405 | long=-83.90637382681687 | directions= | phone=+1 419 234-4441 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. Visit or call to book. }} * {{sleep | name=Parkside Camping | alt= | url=https://parksidecamping.com/ | email= | address=13285 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51904879080803 | long=-83.89873177832634 | directions= | phone=4192432141 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Indian Trails Resort | alt= | url=https://indiantrailsrvresort.com/ | email= | address=13793 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.523936968223 | long=-83.88944336645028 | directions= | phone=4193025315 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Smuggler’s Cove RV Family Camping | alt= | url=https://www.smugglerscoverv.com/ | email= | address=11539 Lake Dr, Lakeview (Avondale) | lat=40.52253238878287 | long=-83.87700450765102 | directions= | phone=9379354399 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=BayPoint Villas | alt= | url= | email= | address=11475 Township Rd 293, Lakeview (Avondale) | lat=40.522790598262404 | long=-83.86535010544884 | directions= | phone=4192304524 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= RV Park. }} * {{sleep | name=Logan Landing RV Park | alt= | url=https://www.loganlandingindianlake.com/ | email= | address=11195-11255 Township Rd 293, Lakeview (Avondale) | lat=40.523811754437396 | long=-83.86258327640547 | directions= | phone=4193038525 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= RV Park. }} * {{sleep | name=Geronimo Camp | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Geronimo-Camp/275068099245084 | email= | address=15650 OH-235, Belle Center (Avondale area) | lat=40.52695904463434 | long=-83.85435800946323 | directions= | phone=9376330697 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Flip Flop Cove Campground | alt= | url=https://www.flipflopcovecampground.com/ | email= | address=15882 OH-235, Belle Center (Avondale area) | lat=40.52788167025108 | long=-83.85194552413829 | directions= | phone=4193059255 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Logan County Library (Lakeview Branch) | alt= | url=https://www.logancountylibraries.org/ | email= | address=165 E Lake St Unit B, Lakeview | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=9378424144| tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Indian Lake Yacht Club | alt= | url=https://www.indianlakeyachtclub.com/?q=node/1 | email= | address=246 Chase Ave, Russells Point | lat=40.475077243565835 | long=-83.89115087521941 | directions= | phone=9373903525| tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Indian Lake Eagles | alt= | url=https://indianlakeohio.com/eagles.htm | email= | address=14011 Collingwood Ave, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.514867295699894 | long=-83.8837721783958 | directions= | phone=9378424790| tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== * **Crime:** Indian Lake is in a low crime area, exercise normal precautions. Note: Crime does ramp up during festivals. * **Water safety:** Always wear a life jacket when boating or participating in water sports. Follow local boating regulations and be aware of weather conditions, as storms can develop quickly on the lake. * **Swimming:** Swim only in designated swimming areas like Old Field Beach. Avoid swimming alone and supervise children at all times. * **Wildlife:** Be cautious of local wildlife such as snakes or waterfowl, and do not feed or approach wild animals. * **Weather:** Ohio weather can change rapidly, especially near the lake. Keep an eye on weather alerts and seek shelter if thunderstorms approach. * **Emergency services:** In case of emergency, dial 911. Russells Point and Lakeview both have police and fire departments that serve the Indian Lake area. * **Respect private property:** Many islands and shoreline areas are privately owned. Access only public parks and designated areas. ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} * [[Wapakoneta]] – Birthplace of Neil Armstrong, with a space museum and quaint downtown. * [[Lima (Ohio)]] – A regional hub with a restored theater and classic Midwestern charm. * [[Bellefontaine (Ohio)]] – Home to the highest point in Ohio and a revitalized downtown. {{routebox | image1=US 33.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Wapakoneta, Ohio|Wapakoneta]] | minorl1=Jct. [[OH 235|OH-235]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Marysville, Ohio|Marysville]] | minorr1=[[Bellefontaine, Ohio|Bellefontaine]] | image2=OH 235.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=S | majorl2=[[Bellefontaine, Ohio|Bellefontaine]] | minorl2=Jct. [[US 33|US-33]] | directionr2=N | majorr2=[[Indian Lake Region (Ohio)|Indian Lake]] | minorr2=[[Lakeview, Ohio|Lakeview]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5000|-83.8900|region:US-OH_type:landmark|display=title}} {{usablecity}} f9k2zf1a0h6hzidfvnbwd1df63eput5 5091265 5091243 2025-07-11T09:44:22Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Ikan Kekek moved page [[Indian Lake Region (Ohio)]] to [[Indian Lake Region]]: [[Wikivoyage:Naming conventions#Disambiguation|Unnecessary disambiguator]]: There is no other search result for "Indian Lake Region". 5091243 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Russells-point-ohio-indian-lake-arch.jpg|caption=Russells Point Arch at Indian Lake|pgname=Indian Lake Region (Ohio)}} '''Indian Lake''' is a region in [[Logan County]], [[Ohio]] noted for being home to the Indian Lake reservoir which brings in thousands of visitors a year for water-related activities. ==Understand == ===Local information === * [https://www.indianlake.com/] Indian Lake Region website. ==Counties== * [[Logan County]] – Indian Lake and all its surrounding communities are located entirely within Logan County. [[File:Aerial Indian Lake Ohio.jpg|thumb|center|Aerial view of Indian Lake, showing the numerous islands and shoreline development.]] ==Villages== *'''Lakeview''' – A small village directly on the lake, Lakeview is a gateway to boating, jet skiing, camping, and summer fun. *'''Russells Point''' – The heart of lakefront activity, with marinas, restaurants, and access to the Indian Lake spillway. * ''' Huntsville''' – A nearby inland village just southeast of the lake, often included in the broader Indian Lake region. *''' Chippewa Park''' - A census-designated place to the north of Indian Lake. The place features many marinas, businesses, islands, as well as campgrounds. *'''Avondale''' - A small settlement featuring camping and marinas. == Talk == Most residents speak English. Expect a small-town Midwestern dialect, and friendly, casual conversation. In summer, many tourists visit from nearby cities like Columbus, Dayton, and Cincinnati. ==Islands== The Indian Lake region has over 30 islands with a great substantial of them visitable by car by the use of bridge. [[File:One of the Islands, Indian Lake, Ohio - DPLA - 3ef02a6557aa6da41331911bf37106bc (page 1).jpg|thumb|center|One of the many islands on Indian Lake.]] *'''Orchard''' - Residential with Marinas. *'''Wolf''' - Residential. *'''Chippewa''' - Wooded island. *'''Pew''' - Wooded with a boat dock. *'''Crane Town''' - Condominiums. *''' Tecumseh''' - Residential with Marinas. *'''Seminole''' - Residential with a restaurant. *'''Shawnee''' - Residential with some businesses. *''' Governors''' - Residential. *''' Lake Ridge''' - Residential with some businesses. *''' Fox Island State Park''' - Playground. *''' Neely''' - Residential. *''' Bellefontaine''' *''' Paradise''' - Parking lot. *''' Bank''' - Wooded island. *'''Turkeyfoot''' *'''Sassafras Point''' *''' Artist''' - Residential. *''' Turtle Shell''' - Residential. *''' Big Walnut Isle''' *'''Blackhawk''' *'''Crystal Beach''' *''' Ewing''' *'''Fawn''' *'''Pony''' *'''Red Oak''' *'''Richard''' *'''Snow''' *'''Winnewauken''' *'''O’Connor’s Point''' *'''Long Island''' *'''Waterbury''' ==Get in== {{mapframe|40.4991|-83.8950|zoom=12|staticmap=0}} ===By plane=== * {{listing | type = go | name = Neil Armstrong Airport (AXV) | lat = 40.49557 | long = -84.30178 | url = http://www.neilarmstrongairport.com/ | wikidata = Q3015988 | alt = {{IATA|AXV}} | address = 7776 OH-219, New Knoxville, OH | directions = About {{mi|23}} west of Indian Lake | content = A [[general aviation]] airport serving private and charter flights. | wikipedia = Neil Armstrong Airport | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} * {{listing | type = go | name = Bellefontaine Regional Airport (EDJ) | lat = 40.37048 | long = -83.81773 | url = https://www.ci.bellefontaine.oh.us/ | wikidata = Q1656096 | alt = {{IATA|EDJ}} | address = 3100 OH-47, Bellefontaine, OH | directions = About {{mi|16}} south of Indian Lake | content = A [[general aviation]] airport primarily used by private aircraft. | lastedit = 2025-07-10 }} Indian Lake is served by two nearby general aviation airports: **Bellefontaine Regional Airport** to the south and **Neil Armstrong Airport** to the west. For commercial flights, the nearest major airports are: * **Dayton International Airport** ({{IATA|DAY}}), about a 1 hr 10 min drive southwest. * **John Glenn Columbus International Airport** ({{IATA|CMH}}), about a 1 hr 20 min drive southeast. ===By car=== The Indian Lake region is directly accessible via US-33, which connects the area to both [[Bellefontaine (Ohio)]] to the east and [[Wapakoneta]] to the west. The lake’s main access points are through the villages of Lakeview, Russells Point, and Huntsville, all located just off US-33. Parking is readily available at state park entrances, marinas, and businesses throughout the lakefront area. The largest village is Russells Point, located just south of the lake. Taking US-33 will take you straight through Russells Point, Lakeview, and Huntsville. In order to reach the Northern villages of Indian Lake you can take OH-235 off of US-33 in Lakeview which will take you through Chippewa Park and Avondale. ===By bike=== Lakeview features the Indian Lake Bike Trail which is a biking path alongside the lake. This can be found just off of OH-366 and there are many parking lots located next to the biking path to leave vehicles. This path takes you from the Old Field Beach all the way to Russells Point in the east roughly 2.5 miles. There are also numerous trails in the area for road and mountain biking. ==Get around== '''Russells Point''' features a major commercial district in the city center. This includes several marinas and restaurants, ranging from fast food chains like McDonald's to local favorites such as the Landing Tavern, LuLu's at the Lake, and the Donut Shop. '''Lakeview''' lies southeast of the lake along US-33. It's home to various restaurants, campgrounds, marinas, and local businesses. A focal point of the town is Old Field Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the area. Nearby are numerous campgrounds, including Indian Hollow Campground. Lakeview also hosts several events throughout the year, including the popular Fourth of July fireworks show, *"Light Up The Lake"*, held on July 5th between Lakeview and Russells Point. Other events include the *Indian Lake Boat Show* (late February to early March), *Christmas in the Village of Lakeview* (early December), and the *Maple Syrup Festival* (mid-March). '''Chippewa Park''' is located directly north of the lake and features the Indian Lake State Park Campground, multiple marinas, and lakeside businesses. Notable spots include the Tilton Hilton, Acheson's Resort, Shakes at the Lake, and Froggy's at the Lake. Community events often take place at the local Eagles lodge. '''Avondale''' lies east of Chippewa Park and north of the lake. Like Chippewa, it offers boating and fishing opportunities and is primarily residential. ==See== [[File:Indian Lake, Huntsville, Ohio - DPLA - 35308771a825e528182306ee540e4ecd (page 1).jpg|thumb|right|Historic postcard view of Indian Lake in Huntsville, Ohio]] * {{listing | type=see | name=Sandy Beach Bridge | alt= | url=http://www.indianlakeohiohistoricalsociety.org/sandy-beach-bridge-.html | email= | address=near Bridgeview Ct | lat=40.47300639386112 | long=-83.89438863177126 | directions= | lastedit=2025-07-25 | content= Walking Bridge cutting through Russells Point popular for photos. }} * {{listing | type=see | name=Indian Lake | alt= | url=https://www.indianlake.com/ | email= | address=Indian Lake, OH | lat=40.50087705762644 | long=-83.88901491518996 | directions= | lastedit=2025-07-25 | content= Indian Lake is a reservoir encompassing the area that is 5,104 acres big. It is the host of many events and is popular for fishing, boating, and camping. The area includes over 30 islands. }} [[File:Indian Lake spillway.jpg|thumb|right|The Indian Lake Spillway, a popular spot for fishing and photos.]] * {{see | name=Indian Lake Spillway | alt= | url= | email= | address=8323 OH-366, Russells Point | lat=40.467546978072264 | long=-83.87547759391245 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Spillway. Popular for pictures and fishing. }} ==Do== Popular activities include jet skiing, disc golf, boating, and scenic photography from the Sandy Beach Bridge or the Indian Lake Spillway. * {{do | name=Lakeview Harbor Boat Ramp | alt= | url= | email= | address=Intersection of OH-235 &, OH-366 | lat=40.48436681782014 | long=-83.91962786961547 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Popular boat harbor in Lakeview. }} * {{do | name=Spend-A-Day Marina | alt= | url= | email= | address=9481 OH-708, Russells Point | lat=40.4769601841722 | long=-83.88514725523366 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Boat dealer that offers daily rentals for people interested in boating at the lake. }} * {{do | name=Indian Lake State Park: Moundwood Marina and Picnic Area | alt= | url=https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/indian-lake-state-park | email= | address=7998 OH-368, Huntsville | lat=40.47977231893039 | long=-83.86158414576221 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Public park with a picnic area and marina. }} * {{do | name=Indian Lake State Park | alt= | url=https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/indian-lake-state-park | email= | address=13156 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51380224425504 | long=-83.89845975464556 | directions= | phone=9378432717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Indian Lake and a bunch of trails. Spots to fish, swim, and boat docks/ marinas. }} * {{do | name=Indian Lake Dog Park | alt= | url= | email= | address=14359 OH-235, Lakeview (Avondale) | lat=40.52385041272967 | long=-83.8775599836493 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{do | name=Old Field Beach | alt= | url=https://www.indianlake.com/parks-recreation | email= | address=11252 OH-235, Lakeview | lat=40.500589059027824 | long=-83.91779049451765 | directions= | phone=9378432717 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Beach for swimming. }} * {{do | name=Old Field Disc Golf Course | alt= | url= | email= | address=11252 OH-235, Lakeview| lat=40.50143822865704 | long=-83.91306030780869 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Disc golf course. }} * {{do | name=Blackhawk Shelter | alt= | url= | email= | address=11504 OH-235, Lakeview| lat=40.504050209841715 | long=-83.9156437018818 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Park with a marina and fishing area. }} ==Buy== * {{buy | name=RV Wholesalers | alt= | url=https://www.rvwholesalers.com/ | email= | address=530 N Main St, Lakeview | lat=40.49267135725657 | long=-83.92793407542239 | directions= | phone=8778774494 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=RV Dealer selling RVs and Campers. }} * {{buy | name=The Costume Shop | alt= | url=https://thecostumeshops.com/ | email= | address=315 E Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.47071074722976 | long=-83.89181399720032 | directions= | phone=9375971804 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content=Local shop designing and selling costumes for school projects, musicals, Halloween, etc. }} ==Eat== * {{eat | name=The Landing Tavern | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/juleslanding/ | email= | address=235 E Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.47104278502171 | long=-83.8926351861265 | directions= | phone=9378433253 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=LuLu's at the Lake | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/groups/471882088255854/ | email= | address=156 E Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.471502619255816 | long=-83.89413281136562 | directions= | phone=9378101004 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Cassano's Pizza & Subs | alt= | url=https://cassanosindianlake.com/ | email= | address=424 E Main St, Russells Point| lat=40.46944279219348 | long=-83.890359797937 | directions= | phone=9378432501 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=The Donut Shop and Bakery on the Lake, LLC | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057611975048# | email= | address=104 W Main St, Russells Point| lat=40.47231088935189 | long=-83.89538013528524 | directions= | phone=9378425580 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Includes a pool. }} * {{eat | name=Jac N Do's Pizza | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/JacNDosIndianLake/ | email= | address=302 W Main St, Russells Point| lat=40.47617768034286 | long=-83.89699910662819 | directions= | phone=9378432222 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=La Playa Cocina & Cantina, Indian Lake | alt= | url=https://laplayaatthelake.com/ | email= | address=305 E Harrison St, Lakeview| lat=40.483521678186044 | long=-83.92026182891072 | directions= | phone=9376330401 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Squack's Snack Shack | alt= | url=https://www.squackssnackshack.com/ | email= | address=320 Midway Ave, Lakeview| lat=40.48999772588376 | long=-83.9226289769388 | directions= | phone=9375394554 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Buckeye at The Lake | alt= | url=https://buckeyeatthelake.com/ | email= | address=11977 OH-235, Lakeview| lat=40.51168924223035 | long=-83.91798825706009 | directions= | phone=9376330068 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Tilton Hilton | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/TiltonHilton1977/ | email= | address=10861 Township Rd 293, Lakeview (Avondale)| lat=40.51606544190177 | long=-83.86796925985827 | directions= | phone=4198605354 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{eat | name=Froggy's at the Lake | alt= | url=https://www.froggys-online.com/ | email= | address=11065 Co Rd 293, Lakeview (Avondale)| lat=40.51817021118729 | long=-83.86540473969666 | directions= | phone=9378425580 | tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Includes a pool. }} ==Drink== * {{drink | name=Gathering Grounds Coffee Shop | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/ilcccoffeeshop | email= | address=337 E Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.470428193654094 | long=-83.89113367414944 | directions= | phone=9378424002 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Indian Lake Brewing Company | alt= | url=https://indianlakebrewing.com/ | email= | address=184 W Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.47481010615957 | long=-83.896579463122 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Shakes at the lake | alt= | url=https://order.toasttab.com/online/shakes-at-the-lake-13305-state-route | email= | address=13305 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51948867576809 | long=-83.89764820632858 | directions= | phone=9375979114 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Brown Bean | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/BBLCoffee | email= | address=13627 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.52012881033312 | long=-83.89190674292371 | directions= | phone=9376330484 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{drink | name=Cranberry Resort Waterfront Bar & Grill | alt= | url=https://cranberryresort.net/ | email= | address=9667 OH-368, Huntsville (Seminole & Shawnee Islands) | lat=40.4976417840302 | long=-83.86936300754567 | directions= | phone=9378424947 | tollfree= | fax= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name=Indian Lake State Park Campground | alt= | url=https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/indian-lake-state-park-campground | email= | address=13156 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51492414961958 | long=-83.89963758425706 | directions= | phone=9378433553 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Cobblestone Hotel & Suites - Russells Point at Indian Lake | alt= | url=https://staycobblestone.com/oh/indian-lake/ | email= | address=211 Lincoln Blvd, Russells Point | lat=40.467946171080584 | long=-83.88848870576771 | directions= | phone=9378100402 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Hotel. }} * {{sleep | name=Remy's Waterfront Retreat | alt= | url=https://www.rentbyowner.com/property/remy-s-waterfront-retreat-w-dock/HA-3117065789 | email= | address=341 W Main St, Russells Point | lat=40.47725716315418 | long=-83.89772849174396 | directions= | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Vacation Rentals. }} * {{sleep | name=Frontier Cottages | alt= | url=http://frontiercottagesohio.com/ | email= | address=10991 OH-366, Lakeview | lat=40.48261467360406 | long=-83.91380683067904 | directions= | phone=9376220361 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{sleep | name=Indian Hallow Campground | alt= | url=https://indianhallowcampground.com/ | email= | address=10601 OH-235, Lakeview | lat=40.492765424666764 | long=-83.92221823879179 | directions= | phone=9378432027 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Frosty's RV Park & Campground | alt= | url= | email= | address=12901 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51860892929405 | long=-83.90637382681687 | directions= | phone=+1 419 234-4441 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. Visit or call to book. }} * {{sleep | name=Parkside Camping | alt= | url=https://parksidecamping.com/ | email= | address=13285 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.51904879080803 | long=-83.89873177832634 | directions= | phone=4192432141 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Indian Trails Resort | alt= | url=https://indiantrailsrvresort.com/ | email= | address=13793 OH-235, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.523936968223 | long=-83.88944336645028 | directions= | phone=4193025315 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Smuggler’s Cove RV Family Camping | alt= | url=https://www.smugglerscoverv.com/ | email= | address=11539 Lake Dr, Lakeview (Avondale) | lat=40.52253238878287 | long=-83.87700450765102 | directions= | phone=9379354399 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=BayPoint Villas | alt= | url= | email= | address=11475 Township Rd 293, Lakeview (Avondale) | lat=40.522790598262404 | long=-83.86535010544884 | directions= | phone=4192304524 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= RV Park. }} * {{sleep | name=Logan Landing RV Park | alt= | url=https://www.loganlandingindianlake.com/ | email= | address=11195-11255 Township Rd 293, Lakeview (Avondale) | lat=40.523811754437396 | long=-83.86258327640547 | directions= | phone=4193038525 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= RV Park. }} * {{sleep | name=Geronimo Camp | alt= | url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Geronimo-Camp/275068099245084 | email= | address=15650 OH-235, Belle Center (Avondale area) | lat=40.52695904463434 | long=-83.85435800946323 | directions= | phone=9376330697 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} * {{sleep | name=Flip Flop Cove Campground | alt= | url=https://www.flipflopcovecampground.com/ | email= | address=15882 OH-235, Belle Center (Avondale area) | lat=40.52788167025108 | long=-83.85194552413829 | directions= | phone=4193059255 | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= Campground. }} ==Connect== * {{listing | type=listing | name=Logan County Library (Lakeview Branch) | alt= | url=https://www.logancountylibraries.org/ | email= | address=165 E Lake St Unit B, Lakeview | lat=40.56871 | long=-84.19513 | directions= | phone=9378424144| tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Indian Lake Yacht Club | alt= | url=https://www.indianlakeyachtclub.com/?q=node/1 | email= | address=246 Chase Ave, Russells Point | lat=40.475077243565835 | long=-83.89115087521941 | directions= | phone=9373903525| tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} * {{listing | type=listing | name=Indian Lake Eagles | alt= | url=https://indianlakeohio.com/eagles.htm | email= | address=14011 Collingwood Ave, Lakeview (Chippewa Park) | lat=40.514867295699894 | long=-83.8837721783958 | directions= | phone=9378424790| tollfree= | hours= | price= | lastedit=2025-07-10 | content= }} ==Stay safe== * **Crime:** Indian Lake is in a low crime area, exercise normal precautions. Note: Crime does ramp up during festivals. * **Water safety:** Always wear a life jacket when boating or participating in water sports. Follow local boating regulations and be aware of weather conditions, as storms can develop quickly on the lake. * **Swimming:** Swim only in designated swimming areas like Old Field Beach. Avoid swimming alone and supervise children at all times. * **Wildlife:** Be cautious of local wildlife such as snakes or waterfowl, and do not feed or approach wild animals. * **Weather:** Ohio weather can change rapidly, especially near the lake. Keep an eye on weather alerts and seek shelter if thunderstorms approach. * **Emergency services:** In case of emergency, dial 911. Russells Point and Lakeview both have police and fire departments that serve the Indian Lake area. * **Respect private property:** Many islands and shoreline areas are privately owned. Access only public parks and designated areas. ==Go next== * {{listing | type=do | name=Grand Lake St. Marys | alt= | url= | email= | address= | lat=40.53116 | long=-84.49968 | directions=Mercer County, west of Wapakoneta and south of Route 29. | phone= | tollfree= | checkin= | checkout= | price= | wikidata=Q46999010 | lastedit=2019-07-03 | content=204 campsites, 166 are equipped with electricity. Facilities include flush toilets, laundry, showers, pet camping, swimming beach, boat launch, boat docks/tie-ups, five air-conditioned Camper Cabins, two spacious Cedar Cabins, naturalist scheduled programs, movies, Friday through Sunday night, boats have no limits on horsepower, seven launch ramps, fuel, boat rentals, seasonal dock rentals are available, wildlife refuge, fishing, hunting, 90 seasonal duck blinds, two public swimming beaches, camp store, games, bike and canoe rentals, miniature golf course, basketball, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and playground equipment. }} * [[Wapakoneta]] – Birthplace of Neil Armstrong, with a space museum and quaint downtown. * [[Lima (Ohio)]] – A regional hub with a restored theater and classic Midwestern charm. * [[Bellefontaine (Ohio)]] – Home to the highest point in Ohio and a revitalized downtown. {{routebox | image1=US 33.svg | imagesize1=22 | directionl1=W | majorl1=[[Wapakoneta, Ohio|Wapakoneta]] | minorl1=Jct. [[OH 235|OH-235]] | directionr1=E | majorr1=[[Marysville, Ohio|Marysville]] | minorr1=[[Bellefontaine, Ohio|Bellefontaine]] | image2=OH 235.svg | imagesize2=22 | directionl2=S | majorl2=[[Bellefontaine, Ohio|Bellefontaine]] | minorl2=Jct. [[US 33|US-33]] | directionr2=N | majorr2=[[Indian Lake Region (Ohio)|Indian Lake]] | minorr2=[[Lakeview, Ohio|Lakeview]] }} {{IsPartOf|West Central Ohio}} {{geo|40.5000|-83.8900|region:US-OH_type:landmark|display=title}} {{usablecity}} f9k2zf1a0h6hzidfvnbwd1df63eput5 2 211802 5091188 2025-07-11T05:01:54Z Azizbekce 2329200 azizbekce is Azizbek CE 5091188 wikitext text/x-wiki '''azizbekce''' is Azizbek (Azizbek Abdurashidov) CE, where CE means Complete Empire. CE isn't just letters - it's the start of a person empire. Used on all social platforms, azizbekce reflects a personal brand and mindset. '''CE has 4 phases: CE-0 Birth | CE-11 Growth | CE-17 Action | CE-21 Fulfillment.''' 4vuxhdmwfhk86k2gbvtpra6hs520q2d 2 211803 5091234 2025-07-11T07:33:04Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Started with intro and understand 5091234 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Stay safe== dexe03p1phen3avc3wcgsl5bmo44idl 5091235 5091234 2025-07-11T07:35:09Z Kned Wiki 2327203 5091235 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Stay safe== cp1oduuusfnw831vnrmd7o4n5xzm6nt 5091236 5091235 2025-07-11T07:38:47Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added Get in 5091236 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== Levanzo is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Stay safe== m8k0kmeimlyb5cu5umx3i8ip0c7c9zz 5091238 5091236 2025-07-11T07:51:48Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added Fenici 5091238 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== Levanzo is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} ==Stay safe== e2ibezw12cvb6tzef2z7vdlnbs0thf6 5091239 5091238 2025-07-11T07:55:26Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added Dolcevita 5091239 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== Levanzo is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== okj9exoj4cu350dcltkxpa0p24wmibl 5091240 5091239 2025-07-11T08:03:30Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Adding Get around 5091240 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== Levanzo is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== f6qkwcviiqq0fy3rq0wyz0ltg5gjizs 5091241 5091240 2025-07-11T08:04:46Z Kned Wiki 2327203 /* Get around */ 5091241 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== Levanzo is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== 5k7v3omb5ofkz40zuopb18a49xh9vgx 5091242 5091241 2025-07-11T08:07:53Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added Faro di Capo Lighthouse 5091242 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== Levanzo is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== * {{see | name = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | alt = Faro di Capo Grosso | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking **1858 concrete lighthouse** marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== e8kwrf4da2fi915fhx2tl6rkiu3zxv4 5091251 5091242 2025-07-11T09:07:51Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added intro to See 5091251 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== Levanzo is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | alt = Faro di Capo Grosso | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== 4w0r7own3otzgzlqd2vyn6sw9v6nxqy 5091252 5091251 2025-07-11T09:09:29Z Kned Wiki 2327203 /* See */ Swapped Faro around so Italian first 5091252 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== Levanzo is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== odts2f80gvuytjngxx6uivb3klqfxqb 5091255 5091252 2025-07-11T09:14:09Z Kned Wiki 2327203 added map 5091255 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|height=300|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== 6me00klokbpu5x5mc9ay5zsne69zzfh 5091256 5091255 2025-07-11T09:14:30Z Kned Wiki 2327203 /* Get in */ 5091256 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== gm7wba6cu2iubt270hype4bs5qrny48 5091258 5091256 2025-07-11T09:21:02Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added marker for port 5091258 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name='''port''' |type=lime|lat=37.93317|long=12.34202}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== 08iumxeyhnvikxvqdsjsaagjr4gu4nj 5091261 5091258 2025-07-11T09:25:58Z Kned Wiki 2327203 /* Get in */ 5091261 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo port is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== 4e2yv5rqmzm99hcq3kqunkcw5rm6y1d 5091262 5091261 2025-07-11T09:30:01Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Corrected coordinates of port 5091262 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== 38yqymmh9kjm9smzzfmffwo5y5vciet 5091264 5091262 2025-07-11T09:43:48Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added Cala Minnola 5091264 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. {{do | name = Cala Minnola | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 38.00220 | long = 12.33210 | content = A sheltered pebble cove on Levanzo’s east coast, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above a bed of Posidonia and hides a Roman-era wreck sitting at about 27 m depth — visible on snorkels or diving trips. Pine trees shade the rim of the cove, and nearby are Roman fish‐salting tanks and amphora fragments embedded in the rocks. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up history in a serene setting. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== r9brlcb32lk8175a65bl285wz7lchvn 5091272 5091264 2025-07-11T09:52:34Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added beaches 5091272 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== 9cnmr9ua0dbu628p3hj8ravtt3r2fzh 5091287 5091272 2025-07-11T10:01:31Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added Eat 5091287 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s **alimentari** (grocery store) and **bakery**, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== c01meryyxsml86rl30obys5cnmcajmt 5091288 5091287 2025-07-11T10:03:38Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added Drink 5091288 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s **alimentari** (grocery store) and **bakery**, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== 3kokfaeb1phwhhanogfqhpy43ndhz8a 5091289 5091288 2025-07-11T10:04:56Z Kned Wiki 2327203 /* Sleep */ Added intro to sleep 5091289 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s **alimentari** (grocery store) and **bakery**, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== Levanzo offers just a handful of accommodation options — no big hotels, just peaceful apartment stays and countryside retreats that blend into the island’s slow rhythm. Most visitors base themselves near the port, where simple but well-equipped lodgings offer easy access to walking trails, beaches, and boat tours. For those wanting more solitude, rural eco-resorts offer quiet escapes among olive groves and sea views. * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== bi606jh7vdk1lx7lcjhxtczk92363ry 5091290 5091289 2025-07-11T10:05:35Z Kned Wiki 2327203 /* Sleep */ 5091290 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s **alimentari** (grocery store) and **bakery**, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== Levanzo offers just a handful of accommodation options — no big hotels, just peaceful apartment stays and countryside retreats that blend into the island’s slow rhythm. Most visitors base themselves near the port, where simple but well-equipped lodgings offer easy access to walking trails, beaches, and boat tours. For those wanting more solitude, rural eco-resorts offer quiet escapes with sea views. * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish **eco-focused resort** set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== pakk19bp8xd3fn6mj71zdqvfqyg53ar 5091291 5091290 2025-07-11T10:06:15Z Kned Wiki 2327203 /* Sleep */ 5091291 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s **alimentari** (grocery store) and **bakery**, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== Levanzo offers just a handful of accommodation options — no big hotels, just peaceful apartment stays and countryside retreats that blend into the island’s slow rhythm. Most visitors base themselves near the port, where simple but well-equipped lodgings offer easy access to walking trails, beaches, and boat tours. For those wanting more solitude, rural eco-resorts offer quiet escapes with sea views. * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish eco-focused resort set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== s19dopp8b4khd2p6ht0vbvgnrqnc0n6 5091292 5091291 2025-07-11T10:08:46Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added Stay safe 5091292 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s **alimentari** (grocery store) and **bakery**, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== Levanzo offers just a handful of accommodation options — no big hotels, just peaceful apartment stays and countryside retreats that blend into the island’s slow rhythm. Most visitors base themselves near the port, where simple but well-equipped lodgings offer easy access to walking trails, beaches, and boat tours. For those wanting more solitude, rural eco-resorts offer quiet escapes with sea views. * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish eco-focused resort set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== Levanzo is very safe and has a welcoming local community. Much of the island is wild and rugged, so wear sturdy shoes on footpaths, bring water, and watch for loose rocks on coastal trails. Summer sun can be intense — use high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and avoid walking long distances in peak afternoon heat. Jellyfish (''meduse'') can appear in the water at times, so check with locals before swimming. Medical services are limited on the island. For anything serious, you may need to return to Trapani by ferry or hydrofoil. cmpan52ud4t84ftix8tcbqs62puibkk 5091296 5091292 2025-07-11T10:12:03Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added image 5091296 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. [[File:Levanzo Italy 02.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Fishing boats and whitewashed houses in Levanzo’s harbour]] The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s **alimentari** (grocery store) and **bakery**, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== Levanzo offers just a handful of accommodation options — no big hotels, just peaceful apartment stays and countryside retreats that blend into the island’s slow rhythm. Most visitors base themselves near the port, where simple but well-equipped lodgings offer easy access to walking trails, beaches, and boat tours. For those wanting more solitude, rural eco-resorts offer quiet escapes with sea views. * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish eco-focused resort set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== Levanzo is very safe and has a welcoming local community. Much of the island is wild and rugged, so wear sturdy shoes on footpaths, bring water, and watch for loose rocks on coastal trails. Summer sun can be intense — use high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and avoid walking long distances in peak afternoon heat. Jellyfish (''meduse'') can appear in the water at times, so check with locals before swimming. Medical services are limited on the island. For anything serious, you may need to return to Trapani by ferry or hydrofoil. hhmb1pudjwsdkuz3w9jph5a7td9yhi7 5091332 5091296 2025-07-11T10:36:37Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added page banner 5091332 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Sailing in sicily, Isola di Levanzo - panoramio (1) (cropped).jpg}} '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. [[File:Levanzo Italy 02.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Fishing boats and whitewashed houses in Levanzo’s harbour]] The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s **alimentari** (grocery store) and **bakery**, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== Levanzo offers just a handful of accommodation options — no big hotels, just peaceful apartment stays and countryside retreats that blend into the island’s slow rhythm. Most visitors base themselves near the port, where simple but well-equipped lodgings offer easy access to walking trails, beaches, and boat tours. For those wanting more solitude, rural eco-resorts offer quiet escapes with sea views. * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish eco-focused resort set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== Levanzo is very safe and has a welcoming local community. Much of the island is wild and rugged, so wear sturdy shoes on footpaths, bring water, and watch for loose rocks on coastal trails. Summer sun can be intense — use high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and avoid walking long distances in peak afternoon heat. Jellyfish (''meduse'') can appear in the water at times, so check with locals before swimming. Medical services are limited on the island. For anything serious, you may need to return to Trapani by ferry or hydrofoil. ezouq1myku8ve1smx70rcnhzaowrztr 5091334 5091332 2025-07-11T10:40:27Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added image of Spiaggia di Cala Dogana 5091334 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Sailing in sicily, Isola di Levanzo - panoramio (1) (cropped).jpg}} '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. [[File:Levanzo Italy 02.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Fishing boats and whitewashed houses in Levanzo’s harbour]] The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== [[File:Levanzo, Egadi.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Levanzo’s tiny port and village, with Spiaggia di Cala Dogana in the foreground]] Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s **alimentari** (grocery store) and **bakery**, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== Levanzo offers just a handful of accommodation options — no big hotels, just peaceful apartment stays and countryside retreats that blend into the island’s slow rhythm. Most visitors base themselves near the port, where simple but well-equipped lodgings offer easy access to walking trails, beaches, and boat tours. For those wanting more solitude, rural eco-resorts offer quiet escapes with sea views. * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish eco-focused resort set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== Levanzo is very safe and has a welcoming local community. Much of the island is wild and rugged, so wear sturdy shoes on footpaths, bring water, and watch for loose rocks on coastal trails. Summer sun can be intense — use high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and avoid walking long distances in peak afternoon heat. Jellyfish (''meduse'') can appear in the water at times, so check with locals before swimming. Medical services are limited on the island. For anything serious, you may need to return to Trapani by ferry or hydrofoil. 7y4vjdsjd40v6vv9amdia00vkan77ub 5091349 5091334 2025-07-11T10:50:17Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added See picture 5091349 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Sailing in sicily, Isola di Levanzo - panoramio (1) (cropped).jpg}} '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. [[File:Levanzo Italy 02.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Fishing boats and whitewashed houses in Levanzo’s harbour]] The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== [[File:Siamo arrivati in Kayak al faraglione di Levanzo - panoramio.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Kayakers arrive at Il Faraglione, one of Levanzo’s most scenic spots]] Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== [[File:Levanzo, Egadi.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Levanzo’s tiny port and village, with Spiaggia di Cala Dogana in the foreground]] Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s **alimentari** (grocery store) and **bakery**, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== Levanzo offers just a handful of accommodation options — no big hotels, just peaceful apartment stays and countryside retreats that blend into the island’s slow rhythm. Most visitors base themselves near the port, where simple but well-equipped lodgings offer easy access to walking trails, beaches, and boat tours. For those wanting more solitude, rural eco-resorts offer quiet escapes with sea views. * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish eco-focused resort set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== Levanzo is very safe and has a welcoming local community. Much of the island is wild and rugged, so wear sturdy shoes on footpaths, bring water, and watch for loose rocks on coastal trails. Summer sun can be intense — use high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and avoid walking long distances in peak afternoon heat. Jellyfish (''meduse'') can appear in the water at times, so check with locals before swimming. Medical services are limited on the island. For anything serious, you may need to return to Trapani by ferry or hydrofoil. 6c5ns8hytpg0f076tvftp9c5pj9l3i0 5091353 5091349 2025-07-11T10:55:14Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added a few pictures 5091353 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Sailing in sicily, Isola di Levanzo - panoramio (1) (cropped).jpg}} '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. [[File:Levanzo Italy 02.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Fishing boats and whitewashed houses in Levanzo’s harbour]] The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== [[File:Grotta de Levanzo.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Paleolithic carvings in Grotta del Genovese, dating back over 12,000 years]] Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== [[File:Siamo arrivati in Kayak al faraglione di Levanzo - panoramio.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Kayakers arrive at Il Faraglione, one of Levanzo’s most scenic spots]] Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s **alimentari** (grocery store) and **bakery**, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== [[File:Levanzo, Egadi.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Levanzo’s tiny port and village, with Spiaggia di Cala Dogana in the foreground]] There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== Levanzo offers just a handful of accommodation options — no big hotels, just peaceful apartment stays and countryside retreats that blend into the island’s slow rhythm. Most visitors base themselves near the port, where simple but well-equipped lodgings offer easy access to walking trails, beaches, and boat tours. For those wanting more solitude, rural eco-resorts offer quiet escapes with sea views. * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish eco-focused resort set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== Levanzo is very safe and has a welcoming local community. Much of the island is wild and rugged, so wear sturdy shoes on footpaths, bring water, and watch for loose rocks on coastal trails. Summer sun can be intense — use high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and avoid walking long distances in peak afternoon heat. Jellyfish (''meduse'') can appear in the water at times, so check with locals before swimming. Medical services are limited on the island. For anything serious, you may need to return to Trapani by ferry or hydrofoil. bu7hwja49s3lvm1ef9igrbid63lqxor 5091354 5091353 2025-07-11T10:56:25Z Kned Wiki 2327203 /* Buy */ added italics 5091354 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Sailing in sicily, Isola di Levanzo - panoramio (1) (cropped).jpg}} '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. [[File:Levanzo Italy 02.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Fishing boats and whitewashed houses in Levanzo’s harbour]] The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== [[File:Grotta de Levanzo.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Paleolithic carvings in Grotta del Genovese, dating back over 12,000 years]] Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== [[File:Siamo arrivati in Kayak al faraglione di Levanzo - panoramio.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Kayakers arrive at Il Faraglione, one of Levanzo’s most scenic spots]] Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s ''alimentari'' (grocery store) and bakery, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== [[File:Levanzo, Egadi.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Levanzo’s tiny port and village, with Spiaggia di Cala Dogana in the foreground]] There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== Levanzo offers just a handful of accommodation options — no big hotels, just peaceful apartment stays and countryside retreats that blend into the island’s slow rhythm. Most visitors base themselves near the port, where simple but well-equipped lodgings offer easy access to walking trails, beaches, and boat tours. For those wanting more solitude, rural eco-resorts offer quiet escapes with sea views. * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish eco-focused resort set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== Levanzo is very safe and has a welcoming local community. Much of the island is wild and rugged, so wear sturdy shoes on footpaths, bring water, and watch for loose rocks on coastal trails. Summer sun can be intense — use high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and avoid walking long distances in peak afternoon heat. Jellyfish (''meduse'') can appear in the water at times, so check with locals before swimming. Medical services are limited on the island. For anything serious, you may need to return to Trapani by ferry or hydrofoil. 0eyi9dh30mswyenav1qcznbbshbopvf 5091358 5091354 2025-07-11T11:02:17Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added explanation of what Legambiente is 5091358 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Sailing in sicily, Isola di Levanzo - panoramio (1) (cropped).jpg}} '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. [[File:Levanzo Italy 02.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Fishing boats and whitewashed houses in Levanzo’s harbour]] The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== [[File:Grotta de Levanzo.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Paleolithic carvings in Grotta del Genovese, dating back over 12,000 years]] Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Italy's environmental agency Legambiente has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== [[File:Siamo arrivati in Kayak al faraglione di Levanzo - panoramio.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Kayakers arrive at Il Faraglione, one of Levanzo’s most scenic spots]] Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s ''alimentari'' (grocery store) and bakery, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== [[File:Levanzo, Egadi.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Levanzo’s tiny port and village, with Spiaggia di Cala Dogana in the foreground]] There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== Levanzo offers just a handful of accommodation options — no big hotels, just peaceful apartment stays and countryside retreats that blend into the island’s slow rhythm. Most visitors base themselves near the port, where simple but well-equipped lodgings offer easy access to walking trails, beaches, and boat tours. For those wanting more solitude, rural eco-resorts offer quiet escapes with sea views. * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish eco-focused resort set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== Levanzo is very safe and has a welcoming local community. Much of the island is wild and rugged, so wear sturdy shoes on footpaths, bring water, and watch for loose rocks on coastal trails. Summer sun can be intense — use high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and avoid walking long distances in peak afternoon heat. Jellyfish (''meduse'') can appear in the water at times, so check with locals before swimming. Medical services are limited on the island. For anything serious, you may need to return to Trapani by ferry or hydrofoil. d6685d18l5uilu0k68e6tx6j473pdd5 5091359 5091358 2025-07-11T11:03:54Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added Legambiente explanation 5091359 wikitext text/x-wiki {{pagebanner|Sailing in sicily, Isola di Levanzo - panoramio (1) (cropped).jpg}} '''Levanzo''' is the smallest and most tranquil of the [[Aegadian Islands]], floating just a short ferry ride from [[Trapani]]. With no real roads, few cars, and a village that feels unchanged in decades, Levanzo is where time slows down. Whitewashed houses cluster around a postcard-perfect harbour, fishing boats bob in turquoise water, and footpaths lead to prehistoric caves, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views. [[File:Levanzo Italy 02.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Fishing boats and whitewashed houses in Levanzo’s harbour]] The island is home to only about 200 residents, and life here unfolds at a quiet, seasonal rhythm — livelier in summer, contemplative the rest of the year. There’s little in the way of nightlife or shopping, but for a day trip or a few days of unplugged serenity, Levanzo is hard to beat. ==Understand== Levanzo covers just under 6 km², but it feels wild and expansive thanks to its rocky hillsides, terraced farmland, and dramatic coastline. The highest point, Pizzo Monaco (278 m), offers views across the Egadi archipelago and out to Marettimo on a clear day. Dry stone walls, overgrown fields, and the occasional bleating of goats hint at the island’s farming past. Though tiny, Levanzo holds deep layers of history. The '''Grotta del Genovese''', accessible by foot or boat, preserves cave art dating back over 12,000 years — haunting images of deer, tuna, and human figures painted by prehistoric inhabitants. Just offshore at Cala Minnola lie the remains of a Roman cargo ship, its amphorae still resting on the seabed. The entire island is part of the [[Aegadian Islands|Aegadian Islands Marine Protected Area]], a vast nature reserve that safeguards the surrounding sea, coastal flora, and undersea meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The reserve’s calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and gentle exploration. Despite its proximity to Sicily, Levanzo feels worlds away. A few dirt tracks lead to isolated coves, and transport is mostly on foot, by mule, or in small jeeps. It’s a place of simplicity and light — more about stillness and stars than schedules and screens. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=38.0000|lon=12.3300|frame=yes}} Levanzo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.98658|long=12.34210}} is reached by hydrofoil or ferry from [[Trapani]] and seasonally from [[Marsala]], with crossings taking around 25–50 minutes. Boats run year-round from Trapani, but the Marsala route operates mainly in summer (June–September), with typically one daily sailing. Tickets can be bought at port kiosks or online. It’s wise to arrive early during high season, as the boats — especially evening returns — tend to sell out. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – high-speed hydrofoils from Trapani (year‑round) and Marsala (summer only) * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – seasonal ferries from Trapani only. ==Get around== With no cars and just a handful of dirt tracks, Levanzo invites slow travel. Most visitors get around by walking or by sea — whether hiking across its rocky interior or drifting along its sculpted coast by boat. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': There are no paved roads, only well-marked walking trails and mule tracks. Most paths — to spots like Grotta del Genovese, Cala Minnola, or Pizzo Monaco — start from the harbour and take 20 min to an hour. Bring sturdy shoes and water for the island's limestone terrain. * '''Boat & Kayak Trips''': Exploring by sea is a highlight. Local skippers run small-boat tours around Levanzo — visiting sea caves, coves, and nearby islets. ==See== [[File:Grotta de Levanzo.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Paleolithic carvings in Grotta del Genovese, dating back over 12,000 years]] Though small, Levanzo offers a few compelling sights beyond its charming harbour. The island’s prehistoric cave art is a true archaeological treasure, while panoramic viewpoints, coastal towers, and natural landmarks reveal layers of history and landscape. Most are reachable on foot — often via scenic trails that double as the reward. * {{see | name = Grotta del Genovese | alt = Genovese Cave | lat = 38.00168 | long = 12.32162 | url=https://www.grottadelgenovese.it/eng/ | content = A fascinating prehistoric cave with Paleolithic engravings and Neolithic red-and-black paintings dating back over 12,000 years. Scenes include deer, bison, human figures (some with bird‑mask headdresses), tuna, fish, and fertility symbols. Discovered in 1949 by a Florentine painter, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient ritual and daily life. Entry is by guided tour only—boat or jeep+foot access—with advance booking essential. Sturdy shoes and water recommended; the cave floor can be uneven. }} * {{see | name = Faro di Capo Grosso | alt = Capo Grosso Lighthouse | lat = 38.02028 | long = 12.33417 | content = A striking 1858 concrete lighthouse marking Levanzo’s northernmost point. The white cylindrical tower—with balcony and lantern atop a keeper’s house—is now automated and solar-powered. Its three white flashes every 15 seconds are visible up to 11 nautical miles. Though the keeper’s quarters are in ruins, the site offers sweeping coastal views and a sense of timeless isolation. }} * {{see | name = Il Faraglione di Levanzo | alt = Levanzo Sea Stack | lat = 37.98670 | long = 12.32841 | content = A striking sea stack just off the western shore of Levanzo, reached by a gentle walk of around 1 km from the harbour. Italy’s leading environmental NGO, Legambiente, has named the adjacent cove among Italy’s top‑20 most beautiful bays. It’s a lovely spot for photos, a swim in turquoise water, and lingering at sunset. }} * {{see | name = Torre Saracena | alt = Torre Saracena di Levanzo | lat = 37.99280 | long = 12.34740 | content = A striking medieval coastal watchtower standing on a hill above the eastern cliffs. Built centuries ago as a lookout against pirates, it now offers sweeping views across Levanzo and the Egadi Islands. A pleasant 30-min walk from the harbour along basic paths; best at sunset or early morning for light and solitude. }} ==Do== [[File:Siamo arrivati in Kayak al faraglione di Levanzo - panoramio.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Kayakers arrive at Il Faraglione, one of Levanzo’s most scenic spots]] Levanzo invites a relaxed pace: days spent swimming in secluded coves, exploring craggy cliffs, or soaking in prehistoric atmosphere. With no cars and few official activities, the island offers natural and simple pleasures — crystal-clear water, coastal hikes, and a step back in time. * {{do | name = Minnola Cove | alt = Spiaggia di Cala Minnola | lat = 37.99285 | long = 12.35075 | content = A sheltered pebble cove, reached via a 20‑minute walk from the harbour. The vibrant turquoise water lies above beds of ''Posidonia'' and hides a Roman shipwreck about 27 m below, still scattered with amphorae. Pine trees provide natural shade along the rim. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up both sun and submerged history. }} * {{do | name = Calcara Cove | alt = Cala Calcara | lat = 37.99862 | long = 12.34602 | content = A wild, east‑coast cove framed by limestone cliffs and Mediterranean maquis. Known for its vibrant marine life—including gorgonians (sea fans) and white octopus—it’s a top spot for snorkelling and diving. Reachable on foot via a rough 2.6 km coastal path from the village, or by boat. 🌿 Ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity and underwater colour. }} * {{do | name = Cala Tramontana | alt = Tramontana Beach | lat = 38.00881 | long = 12.32859 | content = A pebbly beach nestled beneath rocky slopes on Levanzo’s north coast. Calm waves and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Accessed via a short coastal path or by small boat, it’s more remote than village beaches, offering seclusion and spectacular views toward Marettimo. Bring shade and water—there are no facilities. }} ==Buy== Levanzo is not a shopping destination, and there are no boutiques or souvenir shops. However, you may find a small selection of local crafts, island honey, or hand-painted ceramics for sale in hotel lobbies or seasonal stalls near the harbour. Essentials can be picked up from the village’s ''alimentari'' (grocery store) and bakery, though opening hours may be limited, especially outside summer months. ==Eat== [[File:Levanzo, Egadi.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Levanzo’s tiny port and village, with Spiaggia di Cala Dogana in the foreground]] There are only a handful of dining options on Levanzo, all centred around the port village — but what’s here is charming, fresh, and deeply local. Expect seafood-heavy menus, simple trattorias, and spectacular sea views. * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Romano | alt = Romano Bar & Pizzeria | lat = 37.98734 | long = 12.34040 | content = A beloved harbour‑side institution overlooking Levanzo’s tiny port. Romano serves ultra‑fresh seafood (try the fried calamari or shellfish pasta) and wood‑fired pizzas, all while the sun sets over the water. There's also a gelateria and casual bar upstairs. Classic Sicilian dishes, friendly service, and the island’s best view earn it top marks. }} * {{eat | name = Ristorante Bar Arcobaleno | alt = Arcobaleno Restaurant & Bar | lat = 37.98470 | long = 12.34150 | content = A true village hub and favourite among locals, Arcobaleno blends a simple bar, trattoria, and small pizzeria in one. It’s the go-to spot after visiting the cave, offering hearty pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and house‑made wines. The unassuming terrace overlooks the harbour and fills with villagers and visitors—especially during summertime food festivals. }} ==Drink== There are no dedicated bars or nightlife spots on Levanzo, but most restaurants double as casual cafés and aperitivo spots, especially around sunset. Grab a spritz or glass of local wine at places like Romano or Arcobaleno, where you can sip seaside as the boats bob in the tiny harbour. During festivals and summer evenings, these terraces become lively social hubs. For something sweet, look for homemade granita or gelato served at café counters. ==Sleep== Levanzo offers just a handful of accommodation options — no big hotels, just peaceful apartment stays and countryside retreats that blend into the island’s slow rhythm. Most visitors base themselves near the port, where simple but well-equipped lodgings offer easy access to walking trails, beaches, and boat tours. For those wanting more solitude, rural eco-resorts offer quiet escapes with sea views. * {{sleep | name = Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments | alt = Fenici Levanzo Apartment Stay | lat = 37.98769 | long = 12.34259 | url = https://www.fenicilevanzohotel.com/ | content = Six modern, bright apartments just a short stroll (4–5 min) from the harbour. Each has air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, a kitchenette, Smart TV, memory‑foam beds and quality linens. Guest reviews highlight the spacious layouts, balconies or patios overlooking the village, 24‑hour front‑desk service, and high cleanliness standards. Ideal for families or couples seeking comfort and independence in a peaceful island setting. }} * {{sleep | name = Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort | alt = Dolcevita Egadi Resort | lat = 37.99155 | long = 12.33760 | url = https://dolcevitaegadiresort.com/ | content = A stylish eco-focused resort set in a peaceful countryside location on Levanzo, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and olive trees. The property includes multiple spacious rooms and bungalows, a seasonal outdoor pool, a wellness area, and an on-site restaurant serving local organic cuisine. Guests praise its sustainable practices, tranquil atmosphere, free parking, and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still close to the harbour. }} ==Stay safe== Levanzo is very safe and has a welcoming local community. Much of the island is wild and rugged, so wear sturdy shoes on footpaths, bring water, and watch for loose rocks on coastal trails. Summer sun can be intense — use high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and avoid walking long distances in peak afternoon heat. Jellyfish (''meduse'') can appear in the water at times, so check with locals before swimming. Medical services are limited on the island. For anything serious, you may need to return to Trapani by ferry or hydrofoil. anzr4g41vgbgatd3yev7btk0h245un8 0 211805 5091266 2025-07-11T09:44:22Z Ikan Kekek 36420 Ikan Kekek moved page [[Indian Lake Region (Ohio)]] to [[Indian Lake Region]]: [[Wikivoyage:Naming conventions#Disambiguation|Unnecessary disambiguator]]: There is no other search result for "Indian Lake Region". 5091266 wikitext text/x-wiki #REDIRECT [[Indian Lake Region]] 3qgwucxsewcnauvydp1b9gcmb774vak 0 211806 5091363 2025-07-11T11:10:08Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Started outline for Marettimo 5091363 wikitext text/x-wiki ==Understand== ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Stay safe== 8ywywj1k6jid0335dawhdm2xur9roz4 5091390 5091363 2025-07-11T11:42:12Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added intro 5091390 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Marettimo''' is the wildest and most remote of the [[Aegadian Islands]], a rugged limestone outcrop rising steeply from the sea some 40 km west of [[Trapani]]. As part of the Egadi Islands Marine Protected Area, it offers crystalline waters, dramatic hiking trails, and a blissfully car-free village where time seems to stand still. ==Understand== Known as ''Hiera'' (Sacred Island) in antiquity, Marettimo has long inspired myth, rumour and reverence. Some associate it with Homer’s Ithaca, while the Romans built lookout stations here during the Punic Wars. Today’s Marettimo remains sparsely populated — with just a few hundred residents — and deeply traditional. Fishing is still a mainstay of island life, alongside small-scale tourism and nature preservation. The cliffs, caves, and scrub-covered peaks are home to rare plants, birds, and animals found nowhere else, thanks to the island’s long isolation from the mainland. Hiking paths crisscross the hills, leading to historic towers, remote chapels, and panoramic lookouts, while boats explore sea caves and offshore islets. There are no roads or cars beyond the port, making Marettimo an ideal place to unplug and explore at a gentler pace. ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Buy== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Hiera Marettimo | alt = Hiera Guesthouse | url =https://www.thethinkingtraveller.com/italy/sicily/villas/hiera | content = A beautifully restored two-bedroom former fisherman’s house perched above Marettimo’s harbour, offering uninterrupted views of the sea. Decorated with maritime antiques and handmade curios, it blends rustic character with comfort. The rooftop terrace is a highlight — perfect for stargazing or aperitivi at sunset. Ideal for travellers looking for privacy, charm, and a direct connection to island life. }} ==Stay safe== ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Stay safe== hckfd4084tu5d3fyfwytc1g582b4pnv 5091395 5091390 2025-07-11T11:48:41Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added Get in and around 5091395 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Marettimo''' is the wildest and most remote of the [[Aegadian Islands]], a rugged limestone outcrop rising steeply from the sea some 40 km west of [[Trapani]]. As part of the Egadi Islands Marine Protected Area, it offers crystalline waters, dramatic hiking trails, and a blissfully car-free village where time seems to stand still. ==Understand== Known as ''Hiera'' (“sacred”) in antiquity, Marettimo has long inspired myth, rumour, and reverence. Some associate it with Homer’s Ithaca, while the Romans built lookout stations here during the Punic Wars. Today, Marettimo remains sparsely populated — with just a few hundred residents — and deeply traditional. Fishing is still a mainstay of island life, alongside small-scale tourism and nature preservation. The cliffs, caves, and scrub-covered peaks are home to rare plants, birds, and animals found nowhere else, thanks to the island’s long isolation from the mainland. Hiking paths crisscross the hills, leading to historic towers, remote chapels, and panoramic lookouts, while boats explore sea caves and offshore islets. With no roads or cars beyond the port, Marettimo is ideal for unplugging and exploring at a gentler pace. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=14|lat=37.9690|lon=12.0600|frame=yes}} Marettimo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.96844|long=12.05928}} is the most distant of the [[Aegadian Islands]], reached only by boat from [[Trapani]]. High-speed hydrofoils take around 1 hour, while ferries are slower but scenic. Service is year-round, though sailings are less frequent in winter, and seas can be rough. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Trapani port. In high season, especially on weekends and evenings, it’s best to arrive early as boats often fill up. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – hydrofoils from Trapani (year-round); Marsala is not served. * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – occasional ferries from Trapani (foot passengers only on Marettimo). ==Get around== Marettimo is completely roadless outside the port, and no cars or scooters are allowed. Getting around means hiking, swimming, or taking a boat — all ideal ways to explore this rugged and pristine island. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': Old mule tracks and marked trails wind across the island, leading to ancient churches, watchtowers, and peaks with sweeping views. Trails vary from easy shoreline walks to steep mountain hikes — bring good shoes, water, and a map. * '''Boat & Cave Tours''': Local skippers run boat trips around the island, often stopping to swim in sea caves or snorkel above underwater rock shelves. Marettimo’s coast is famously indented and dotted with grottos, many of which are accessible only by sea. ==See== ==Do== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Buy== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Hiera Marettimo | alt = Hiera Guesthouse | url =https://www.thethinkingtraveller.com/italy/sicily/villas/hiera | content = A beautifully restored two-bedroom former fisherman’s house perched above Marettimo’s harbour, offering uninterrupted views of the sea. Decorated with maritime antiques and handmade curios, it blends rustic character with comfort. The rooftop terrace is a highlight — perfect for stargazing or aperitivi at sunset. Ideal for travellers looking for privacy, charm, and a direct connection to island life. }} ==Stay safe== ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Stay safe== g4qicsryy851nznys4o1l6ifgnukjmu 5091397 5091395 2025-07-11T11:50:35Z Kned Wiki 2327203 fixed coordinates for port 5091397 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Marettimo''' is the wildest and most remote of the [[Aegadian Islands]], a rugged limestone outcrop rising steeply from the sea some 40 km west of [[Trapani]]. As part of the Egadi Islands Marine Protected Area, it offers crystalline waters, dramatic hiking trails, and a blissfully car-free village where time seems to stand still. ==Understand== Known as ''Hiera'' (“sacred”) in antiquity, Marettimo has long inspired myth, rumour, and reverence. Some associate it with Homer’s Ithaca, while the Romans built lookout stations here during the Punic Wars. Today, Marettimo remains sparsely populated — with just a few hundred residents — and deeply traditional. Fishing is still a mainstay of island life, alongside small-scale tourism and nature preservation. The cliffs, caves, and scrub-covered peaks are home to rare plants, birds, and animals found nowhere else, thanks to the island’s long isolation from the mainland. Hiking paths crisscross the hills, leading to historic towers, remote chapels, and panoramic lookouts, while boats explore sea caves and offshore islets. With no roads or cars beyond the port, Marettimo is ideal for unplugging and exploring at a gentler pace. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=37.9690|lon=12.0600|frame=yes}} Marettimo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.96738|long=12.07509}} is the most distant of the [[Aegadian Islands]], reached only by boat from [[Trapani]]. High-speed hydrofoils take around 1 hour, while ferries are slower but scenic. Service is year-round, though sailings are less frequent in winter, and seas can be rough. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Trapani port. In high season, especially on weekends and evenings, it’s best to arrive early as boats often fill up. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – hydrofoils from Trapani (year-round); Marsala is not served. * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – occasional ferries from Trapani (foot passengers only on Marettimo). ==Get around== Marettimo is completely roadless outside the port, and no cars or scooters are allowed. Getting around means hiking, swimming, or taking a boat — all ideal ways to explore this rugged and pristine island. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': Old mule tracks and marked trails wind across the island, leading to ancient churches, watchtowers, and peaks with sweeping views. Trails vary from easy shoreline walks to steep mountain hikes — bring good shoes, water, and a map. * '''Boat & Cave Tours''': Local skippers run boat trips around the island, often stopping to swim in sea caves or snorkel above underwater rock shelves. Marettimo’s coast is famously indented and dotted with grottos, many of which are accessible only by sea. ==See== ==Do== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Buy== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Hiera Marettimo | alt = Hiera Guesthouse | url =https://www.thethinkingtraveller.com/italy/sicily/villas/hiera | content = A beautifully restored two-bedroom former fisherman’s house perched above Marettimo’s harbour, offering uninterrupted views of the sea. Decorated with maritime antiques and handmade curios, it blends rustic character with comfort. The rooftop terrace is a highlight — perfect for stargazing or aperitivi at sunset. Ideal for travellers looking for privacy, charm, and a direct connection to island life. }} ==Stay safe== ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Stay safe== i7zr1w6pa5reou58gjs1c6w7ghtgrkk 5091400 5091397 2025-07-11T11:53:52Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added port marker 5091400 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Marettimo''' is the wildest and most remote of the [[Aegadian Islands]], a rugged limestone outcrop rising steeply from the sea some 40 km west of [[Trapani]]. As part of the Egadi Islands Marine Protected Area, it offers crystalline waters, dramatic hiking trails, and a blissfully car-free village where time seems to stand still. ==Understand== Known as ''Hiera'' (“sacred”) in antiquity, Marettimo has long inspired myth, rumour, and reverence. Some associate it with Homer’s Ithaca, while the Romans built lookout stations here during the Punic Wars. Today, Marettimo remains sparsely populated — with just a few hundred residents — and deeply traditional. Fishing is still a mainstay of island life, alongside small-scale tourism and nature preservation. The cliffs, caves, and scrub-covered peaks are home to rare plants, birds, and animals found nowhere else, thanks to the island’s long isolation from the mainland. Hiking paths crisscross the hills, leading to historic towers, remote chapels, and panoramic lookouts, while boats explore sea caves and offshore islets. With no roads or cars beyond the port, Marettimo is ideal for unplugging and exploring at a gentler pace. ==Get in== {{mapframe|width=400|zoom=13|lat=37.9695|lon=12.0650|frame=yes}} Marettimo {{marker|name=port|type=lime|lat=37.96738|long=12.07509}} is the most distant of the [[Aegadian Islands]], reached only by boat from [[Trapani]]. High-speed hydrofoils take around 1 hour, while ferries are slower but scenic. Service is year-round, though sailings are less frequent in winter, and seas can be rough. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Trapani port. In high season, especially on weekends and evenings, it’s best to arrive early as boats often fill up. * '''[https://www.libertylines.it Liberty Lines]''' – hydrofoils from Trapani (year-round); Marsala is not served. * '''[https://www.siremar.it Siremar]''' – occasional ferries from Trapani (foot passengers only on Marettimo). ==Get around== Marettimo is completely roadless outside the port, and no cars or scooters are allowed. Getting around means hiking, swimming, or taking a boat — all ideal ways to explore this rugged and pristine island. * '''On Foot & Hiking''': Old mule tracks and marked trails wind across the island, leading to ancient churches, watchtowers, and peaks with sweeping views. Trails vary from easy shoreline walks to steep mountain hikes — bring good shoes, water, and a map. * '''Boat & Cave Tours''': Local skippers run boat trips around the island, often stopping to swim in sea caves or snorkel above underwater rock shelves. Marettimo’s coast is famously indented and dotted with grottos, many of which are accessible only by sea. ==See== ==Do== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Buy== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Hiera Marettimo | alt = Hiera Guesthouse | url =https://www.thethinkingtraveller.com/italy/sicily/villas/hiera | content = A beautifully restored two-bedroom former fisherman’s house perched above Marettimo’s harbour, offering uninterrupted views of the sea. Decorated with maritime antiques and handmade curios, it blends rustic character with comfort. The rooftop terrace is a highlight — perfect for stargazing or aperitivi at sunset. Ideal for travellers looking for privacy, charm, and a direct connection to island life. }} ==Stay safe== ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Buy== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Sleep== ==Stay safe== rg5c80x0l6xxvvtdmscm5ljsnkdg332 2 211807 5091373 2025-07-11T11:29:43Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Creating Marrettimo 5091373 wikitext text/x-wiki ==Understand== ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Buy== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Hiera Marettimo | alt = Hiera Guesthouse | url = https://www.thethinkingtraveller.com/italy/sicily/the-aegadian-islands/hiera/ | content = A beautifully restored two-bedroom former fisherman’s house perched above Marettimo’s harbour, offering uninterrupted views of the sea. Decorated with maritime antiques and handmade curios, it blends rustic character with comfort. The rooftop terrace is a highlight — perfect for stargazing or aperitivi at sunset. Ideal for travellers looking for privacy, charm, and a direct connection to island life. }} ==Stay safe== a0r2qgvki2ae1djncipywat5hbp0dw6 5091374 5091373 2025-07-11T11:31:26Z Kned Wiki 2327203 /* Sleep */ fixing url to hiera 5091374 wikitext text/x-wiki ==Understand== ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Buy== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Hiera Marettimo | alt = Hiera Guesthouse | url =https://www.thethinkingtraveller.com/italy/sicily/villas/hiera | content = A beautifully restored two-bedroom former fisherman’s house perched above Marettimo’s harbour, offering uninterrupted views of the sea. Decorated with maritime antiques and handmade curios, it blends rustic character with comfort. The rooftop terrace is a highlight — perfect for stargazing or aperitivi at sunset. Ideal for travellers looking for privacy, charm, and a direct connection to island life. }} ==Stay safe== i5aodm066kbgzjhiznwm5mxsvsu0eg6 5091385 5091374 2025-07-11T11:40:36Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Added intro 5091385 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Marettimo''' is the wildest and most remote of the [[Aegadian Islands]], a rugged limestone outcrop rising steeply from the sea some 40 km west of [[Trapani]]. As part of the Egadi Islands Marine Protected Area, it offers crystalline waters, dramatic hiking trails, and a blissfully car-free village where time seems to stand still. ==Understand== Known as ''Hiera'' (Sacred Island) in antiquity, Marettimo has long inspired myth, rumour and reverence. Some associate it with Homer’s Ithaca, while the Romans built lookout stations here during the Punic Wars. Today’s Marettimo remains sparsely populated — with just a few hundred residents — and deeply traditional. Fishing is still a mainstay of island life, alongside small-scale tourism and nature preservation. The cliffs, caves, and scrub-covered peaks are home to rare plants, birds, and animals found nowhere else, thanks to the island’s long isolation from the mainland. Hiking paths crisscross the hills, leading to historic towers, remote chapels, and panoramic lookouts, while boats explore sea caves and offshore islets. There are no roads or cars beyond the port, making Marettimo an ideal place to unplug and explore at a gentler pace. ==Get in== ==Get around== ==See== ==Do== ==Eat== ==Drink== ==Buy== ==Sleep== * {{sleep | name = Hiera Marettimo | alt = Hiera Guesthouse | url =https://www.thethinkingtraveller.com/italy/sicily/villas/hiera | content = A beautifully restored two-bedroom former fisherman’s house perched above Marettimo’s harbour, offering uninterrupted views of the sea. Decorated with maritime antiques and handmade curios, it blends rustic character with comfort. The rooftop terrace is a highlight — perfect for stargazing or aperitivi at sunset. Ideal for travellers looking for privacy, charm, and a direct connection to island life. }} ==Stay safe== 3sywwklpn7jqmym7o83b3bg3bdazqz6 5091386 5091385 2025-07-11T11:40:58Z Kned Wiki 2327203 Blanked the page 5091386 wikitext text/x-wiki phoiac9h4m842xq45sp7s6u21eteeq1 5091388 5091386 2025-07-11T11:41:24Z Kned Wiki 2327203 5091388 wikitext text/x-wiki DELETE - MARETTIMO SPELLED INCORECTLY 0wab077rrl0bt2lzcn3ajfia3s5vhz1